New Release + 5 Star Review + Giveaway: For 100 Days by Lara Adrian – 100 Series

Posted on 05/26/2016 by shellbellereads

FOR 100 DAYS is the first novel in a passionate new contemporary romance trilogy from New York Times and #1 international bestselling author Lara Adrian. Coming soon: FOR 100 NIGHTS and FOR 100 REASONS.For 100 Days

*****

100 Series

By Lara Adrian

Buy: Amazon / Amazon Paperback / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Pleasure has a price . . .

Just when everything in my life is falling apart, I find a chance to turn it around–to step into someone else’s glittering world, if only for a little while. I become someone new, no longer the woman defined by an ugly past, but a woman freer and bolder than myself. A woman who isn’t afraid to explore every passion, even at its darkest, with a mysterious and seductive man who believes my mask is real.

Handsome and commanding, enigmatic and irresistible, billionaire Dominic Baine is an obsession I cannot afford and should not risk. He ushers me into consuming new pleasures and addicting new desires, until the line between my real life and the fantasy one I’ve stolen with him begins to blur.

I know I cannot keep my truth from him. I know my past will not stay buried forever. But before I can make it right, everything comes crashing down. I have deceived this powerful, dangerous man . . . and now there is a price to be paid.

* * * * * * * *

Exclusive Excerpt:

Tasha and I head for the elevators. Neither of the two cars are parked on the ground level, so, as we wait for one to come down, I can’t resist pivoting for another look at the opulence of the lobby.

A moment later, a soft chime sounds behind me as the elevator comes to a rest. I wheel back around and step toward the doors as soon as they slide open.

I don’t even register that the wall I’m facing is human until I’ve almost crashed right into him.

I stop short and lift my head with a half-formed apology on my lips. The sound evaporates on my tongue as I glance up and my gaze collides with a pair of cerulean blue eyes. They skewer me from under the slash of inky black brows.

Brows that are furrowed into a deep scowl at the uncouth clod who nearly body-slammed her way onto the elevator.

“Um, sorry.”

No reply from him. Not even a flicker of polite response in his handsome, sharply cut features. Under a crown of dark hair that’s neatly trimmed, fit for a boardroom, but thick with rebellious waves that catch the light in a glossy, raven’s wing sheen, his face is a blending of hard, chiseled angles. With his high cheekbones and square jaw, I’d be tempted to call his face brutal if not for the supple line of his mouth.

And he’s tall and muscular too, dressed in a dark gray track jacket and pants that do little to disguise the physically fit body within. Despite his athletic appearance, I can tell immediately that he’s not some meat-head gym rat who’s more brawn than brain.

No, this man’s eyes blast me with the kind of intelligence and seriousness—a powerful confidence—that I can’t ignore.

A shocking and inexplicable heat pours through me as he holds my gaze. His stare is bold, unflinching, as if he’s accustomed to taking his fill of anything in his sights. That air of assumption should offend me for many reasons, but as his brilliant blue eyes travel the length of me, all I feel is the rapid igniting of every cell in my body.

Tasha clears her throat when my muteness appears to be permanent. “Pardon us, please.”

He barely acknowledges her comment, nor her huff of indignation that follows. No, those piercing eyes staying rooted on me alone. I feel stripped bare under that hard gaze, as if he can see right through me with a single glance and knows I don’t belong here. Even worse, the barely imperceptible twist of his lips seems to say that he’s very much aware of the effect he has on me.

He doesn’t move, then I am mortified to realize it’s because I’m standing in his way.

I wince inwardly and step aside, wishing I would just melt into the crack between the marble floor and the elevator shaft before I embarrass myself any more.

His path cleared, he steps into the lobby without a word.

I follow Tasha into the elevator, but all of my attention is on the dark-haired stranger now prowling across the marble with fluid, almost urgent strides.

I hear Manny greet him as the elevator doors slide shut, blocking my view.

“Evening, Mr. Baine. Enjoy your run, sir.”

Once we’re sealed inside the car, my breath leaks out of me on a groan.

Tasha arches a brow. “Hot as sin, but obviously a superior prick. Do yourself a favor and steer clear of that one, honey.”

As if I need the warning.

Whoever he is, I doubt I’ll be seeing much of Mr. Baine. In fact, I’m already promising myself I’ll head in the opposite direction if I ever see him in the building again while I’m here. God knows, I don’t need to relive tonight’s awkward semi-introduction with the man anytime soon.

I push the button for the fifth floor, wishing it was as easy to push the memory of those searing blue eyes from my mind.

Michel’s Review

Spoiler Free Review

What a great surprise to see on of my favorite paranormal authors stepping out of her genre. Lara Adrian is known for her world building, great characters, sizzling erotic romances, and creating an intriguing story behind the romance.

For 100 Days is not a stand alone book. It is the first book in the 100 Series. Be prepared for a cliffhanger.

For 100 Days is a great introduction to two very complicated characters from two very different kinds of lifestyles. One is a struggling artist with deep secrets. The other is a powerful, millionaire businessman that also has dark secrets. Does this sound like a lot of the millionaire romances? Don’t let the description keep you from reading this book. Lara Adrian has definitely put her unique brand on the story that will leave the readers wanting more.

I’m not going to say too much more except this book was HOT and loaded with mystery and intrigue. The story is only beginning and I can’t wait to see where Nick and Avery are headed. I think there is a very dangerous road ahead for them both.

__________________________________________

Lara Adrian Bio:

LARA ADRIAN is a New York Times and #1 internationally best-selling author, with nearly 4 million books in print worldwide and translations licensed to more than 20 countries. Her books regularly appear in the top spots of all the major bestseller lists including the New York Times, USA Today, Publishers Weekly, Indiebound, Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble, etc. Reviewers have called Lara’s books “addictively readable” (Chicago Tribune), “extraordinary” (Fresh Fiction), and “one of the best on the market” (Romantic Times).

Writing as TINA ST. JOHN, her historical romances have won numerous awards including the National Readers Choice; Romantic Times Magazine Reviewer’s Choice; Booksellers Best; and many others. She was twice named a Finalist in Romance Writers of America’s RITA Awards, for Best Historical Romance (White Lion’s Lady) and Best Paranormal Romance (Heart of the Hunter). More recently, the German translation of Heart of the Hunter debuted on Der Spiegel bestseller list.

With an ancestry stretching back to the Mayflower and the court of King Henry VIII, the author lives with her husband in New England.

Visit the author’s website and sign up for new release announcements at http://bit.ly/LaraAdrianNews

Connect with Lara:

Follow Lara at Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Lara-Adrian/e/B001JSFD7M/

Follow Lara at BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/lara-adrian

Join Lara’s VIP Reader List: http://bit.ly/LaraAdrianNews

http://www.LaraAdrian.com

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http://www.goodreads.com/lara_adrian

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****

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2016 Favorite…5 + Star Review…Excerpt …Giveaway- Charged by Jay Crownover – The Saints of Denver Series

Posted on 05/25/2016 by shellbellereads

From New York Times bestselling author Jay Crownover comes CHARGED, the latest in her sexy The Saints of Denver Series, releasing May 24th! Known for her strong heroines and alpha males, you won’t know what hit you as you read Avett and Quaid’s story. Keep reading for more about the Leagle Eagle and Avett and order your copy today.

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About CHARGED:

From the New York Times bestselling author of the Marked Men books comes the second installment in the Saints of Denver series featuring a bad girl and a by the book attorney who could be her salvation…or her ruin.

Avett Walker and Quaid Jackson’s worlds have no reason to collide. Ever. Quaid is a high powered criminal attorney as slick as he is handsome. Avett is a pink-haired troublemaker with a bad attitude and a history of picking the wrong men.

When Avett lands in a sea of hot water because of one terrible mistake, the only person who can get her out of it is the insanely sexy lawyer. The last thing on earth she wants to do is rely on the no-nonsense attorney who thinks of her as nothing more than a nuisance. He literally has her fate in his hands. Yet there is something about him that makes her want to convince him to loosen his tie and have a little fun…with her.

Quaid never takes on clients like the impulsive young woman with a Technicolor dye job. She could stand to learn a hard lesson or two, but something about her guileless hazel eyes intrigues him. Still, he’s determined to keep their relationship strictly business. But doing so is becoming more impossible with each day he spends with her.

As they work side-by-side, they’ll have to figure out a way to get along and keep their hands off each other—because the chemistry between them is beyond charged.

Michel’s Review

There is a reason why Jay Crownover is one of my all time, always go to, favorite authors. The woman can write a book that leaves me with a book hangover for days. Her unique cast of characters, their imperfect lives, and life changing experiences always pack an emotional punch.

In the latest release in The Saints of Denver series, Jay Crownover proved what a phenomenal writer she really is. She took two very unlikable characters from her previous books and changed the readers perspective about these two people. She showcased their vulnerabilities, their tribulations, and insecurities but at the same time shined a light on their positive attributes that readers have not had a chance to see. She also put two unlikely people together and made the impossible work. She built a touching relationship between two lost people. It was a very touching story of love and acceptance. Redemption was possible because they believed in each other as well as themselves.

Avett Walker has been nothing but trouble. She has stolen from the bar, stolen from her father, and has betrayed the trust of everyone she comes in contact with, including her junkie boyfriend. Her last bout of trouble was a reality check that made her aware of all the anguish and grief she has caused the ones she loved. She is facing real jail time and a very dismal future. Her only hope is her hotshot criminal lawyer, Quaid Jackson, to work his magic in the courtroom. It’s going to take her father’s retirement money and a miracle to get her off. Quaid Jackson is her miracle in a very different way. It’s not his expertise in the courtroom that gives her a second chance. It’s the man himself. He sees Avett beyond her bad girl exterior. He sees a vulnerable, compassionate young woman that lost herself long ago. He sees a woman worth loving.

Quaid Jackson is on the fast track to becoming partner in the prestigious law firm he works for. He has represented almost every low life criminal in Denver and gotten them off. His hard work and knowledge of the law is making him a very wealthy man. The next step is making partner and becoming even wealthier. His success has come at a great cost. His marriage was destroyed, he no longer talks to his family, and he has lost his conscience. When he meets Avett Walker he begins to re-evaluate his life. It’s very clear that Avett Walker is innocent of the charges against her. Her only crime has been associating with the wrong kind of people for the wrong reasons. She is the first client he has had that owns her mistakes and is taking full responsibility for her actions. As misguided as she is, he admires her integrity. He can get her out of the charges against her but he can’t fix her mistakes. This time she has gotten in with the wrong people, the kind of people even he wouldn’t represent. The only thing he can do is try to protect her from those people.

Both Quaid and Avett are in for some surprises. From self discovery to a beautiful romance, they are both finding there is more to life than they thought they deserved. Together they are going to find the kind of love that is pure and righteous. They just have to stay alive and find a way to get the bad guys off their backs. It’s going to take a miracle.

Jay Crownover outdid herself creating Avett and Quaid’s story. I honestly hated Avett before I picked up this book. My opinion of Quaid was pretty low as well. He seemed to be self serving and greedy. Once I got to know the real Quaid and Avett, I was shocked at their backstories. I could completely understand their drive and past behaviors. What shocked me the most is how much I liked these people when all their secrets were revealed. I wanted them to have their happily ever after.

Like I said… Jay Crownover can write a book! Read Charged by Jay Crownover. It is a 5+ Star book.

And don’t miss the first titles in The Saints of Denver Series!

LEVELED

BUILT

About Jay Crownover:

Jay Crownover is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the Marked Men, The Point,and the Saints of Denverseries. Like her characters, she is a big fan of tattoos. She loves music and wishes she could be a rock star, but since she has no aptitude for singing or instrument playing, she’ll settle for writing stories with interesting characters that make the reader feel something. She lives in Colorado with her three dogs.

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CHARGED Goodreads ** Jay Crownover Goodreads

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Release Blitz + 5 Star Review: Sugar Daddy by Sawyer Bennett – Sugar Bowl Series – Book 1

Posted on 05/24/2016 by shellbellereads

Sugar Daddy

Sugar Bowl Series – Book 1

By Sawyer Bennett

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Synopsis

Sela Halstead lost her innocence in a way that no sixteen-year-old should ever have to endure. She’s spent years trying to forget that night even while wondering about the identities of the monsters who brutalized her—until a telltale tattoo flashes across Sela’s TV screen. The incriminating ink belongs to Jonathon Townsend, the millionaire founder of The Sugar Bowl, a website that matches rich older men with impressionable young women. Obsessed with revenge, Sela infiltrates Townsend’s world, only to come face-to-face with a tantalizing complication: Beckett North, his charismatic business partner.

The tech mastermind behind The Sugar Bowl, Beck always gets what he wants, in business and in bed. And yet, for a man who’s done every dirty thing imaginable, there’s something about the naïve, fresh-faced Sela that sparks his hottest fantasies. Because with her, it’s not just about sex. Beck opens up to her in ways he never has with other girls. So why does he get the feeling that she’s hiding something? In a world of pleasure and power, the shocking truth could turn them against each other—or bind them forever.

Note: Sugar Daddy ends on a cliffhanger. Sela and Beck’s story continues in Sugar Rush and Sugar Free!

Michel’s Review

Sawyer Bennett has gone to the Dark Side! No I’m not talking about Star Wars! I’m talking about a dark erotic thriller that entrances the reader from word one until the last word… the big cliffy. This is not a pretty romance nor is it going to be an easy one that takes a little bit of forgiveness, understanding, and love. This is a story about a very damaged women seeking revenge and finding something good along the way. The problem is that this girl is very damaged. She may not be able to accept the good things coming her way.

Sela Halstead was viciously raped by three men when she was an innocent sixteen year old girl. It severely damaged her for life. Now in her twenties, she is existing. She’s not living her life, she’s doesn’t own her life. She is lost. She doesn’t have relationships, she has meaningless sex. She doesn’t have friends because she can’t invest in any kind of relationship. She is a shell of a person existing from day to day until she sees an interview segment on television. One of her monsters is being interviewed because of his exclusive dating service, The Sugar Bowl. A service that hooks up older rich men with beautiful young women. She recognizes his tattoo and suddenly she has a purpose in life.

Infiltrate

Murder

Repeat

After a massive makeover, Sela is ready to begin her quest. She is going to become a Sugar Baby. Hours of research, preparation, and tunnel vision has led her to the Sugar Bowl mixer. She plans to capture Jonathan Townsend’s attention. She plans to kill the S.O.B..

Sela didn’t count on Jonathan Townsend not being the least bit interested. She didn’t count on capturing Beckett North’s ( Jonathan’s partner) attention. She didn’t count on the man evoking passion and re-awakening her sexual desires. She didn’t count on wanting more than retribution.

Beckett North is intrigued by Sela. She seems a bit shy, reclusive, and mysterious. She is not like the other Sugar Baby ladies. Going against his own rules, he engages with the Sugar Baby. He didn’t count on this innocent woman bringing him to his knees and wanting more than sex. He wants it all with Sela. First he will have to break down her walls. It may be something he regrets. Once the real Sela begins to surface, he’s shocked.

Sela and Beck are beginning to find the one thing that could change both of their lives. Love has a way of either changing things or destroying lives. Sela is losing her direction.

Keep your eye on the prize , Sela.

Just when Sela has embraced her feelings… she loses sight of the prize. Beck has discovered some of her deceptions and she’s lost more than the prize.

Cliffhanger!

I am dying here! I want the next book now!

Sawyer Bennett has embraced the Dark Side and taken her readers hostage.

Sugar Daddy had loads of steam, eroticism, and emotional moments. I loved how she took the readers into Sela’s mindset. It was mind blowing.

I highly recommend Sugar Daddy by Sawyer Bennett.

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Sugar Daddy

Book One in Sugar Bowl Series

***

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

***

Synopsis

Note: Sugar Daddy ends on a cliffhanger. Sela and Beck’s story continues in Sugar Rush and Sugar Free!

*****

Sugar Rush

Sugar Bowl Series – Book 2

By Sawyer Bennett

Release Date: August 2, 2016

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

The explosive Sugar Bowl series from New York Times bestselling author Sawyer Bennett continues in Sugar Rush: a red-hot novel of reckless desire and vengeance long denied.

****

Sugar Free

Sugar Bowl Series – Book 3

By Sawyer Bennett

Release Date: October 11, 2016

Pre Order: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Synopsis

Sela and Beck’s dark, riveting love story reaches its epic conclusion in the final chapter of Sawyer Bennett’s Sugar Bowl trilogy that began with the novels Sugar Daddy and Sugar Rush.

_________________________________________

About the Author

USA Today Best-Selling author, Sawyer Bennett, is a snarky southern woman and reformed trial lawyer who decided to finally start putting on paper all of the stories that were floating in her head. She is married to a mobster (well, a market researcher) and they have two big, furry dogs who hog the bed. Sawyer would like to report she doesn’t have many weaknesses but can be bribed with a nominal amount of milk chocolate.

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Release Blitz + 5 Star Review: Desire After Dark by Marie Force – Gansett Island Series – Book 15

Posted on 05/23/2016 by shellbellereads

Desire After Dark

A Gansett Island Novel – Book 15

By Marie Force

Buy: Amazon / Amazon UK / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Synopsis

Tobias “Slim” Jackson has the perfect life as a pilot on Gansett Island in the summer and in Florida in the winter. He’s happiest when he’s in the air, or at least that was the case before last summer when he met Erin Barton, Gansett Island’s newest lighthouse keeper. Now he can’t seem to find his usual enthusiasm for flying, winter in the sunny South or anything that doesn’t include her.

Erin has been stuck on pause since she lost her twin brother. She’ll tell you herself that her life has been a hot mess since Toby died. After dropping out of law school, she’s flitted from one pointless job to another, existing rather than truly living. Then she comes to Gansett Island to take over as the new lighthouse keeper and meets Slim, who happens to share her beloved brother’s first name. That small coincidence is enough to convince Erin that she needs to spend more time with the dashing pilot—except for the fact that he’s spending the winter more than a thousand miles from her.

Now Slim’s come home to Gansett for the holidays and to hopefully pick up where he left off with Erin. He’s got twelve days before he’s due back in Florida to finish out the remainder of his winter obligations. A lot can happen in twelve days, but will it be enough to convince Erin that it’s time to start truly living again? Read Slim and Erin’s story and catch up with the rest of the Gansett Island cast in Desire After Dark!

Book 15 in the Gansett Island Series

___________________________________

Tracey’s Review

Although I am a huge fan of Marie Force, loving every book of hers that I’ve read, I had not actually read any of the books in her McCarthys of Gansett Island series. Crazy, I know, to think that it has taken me until DESIRE AFTER DARK, the 15th book, to start.

Now, sometimes, coming into an existing series of books this far in would make it difficult to feel any sort of chemistry with characters or with existing plot threads and storylines, but believe me when I say that it did not make one bit of difference in this case. I started and finished DESIRE AFTER DARK in one day, because, as with all of Marie’s books, I was immediately drawn in. It took me no time at all to fall completely, absolutely, head-over-heels in love with Slim, Erin, and all of the McCarthys, and to pick up the gist of the various stories from previous books.

I am not a fan of insta-love, and have a difficult time suspending my disbelief, even in romance novels. Call it lust, call it desire, but, love, no. Even though Slim and Erin have not spent a lot of time together at the start of this book, they have known each other, and forged a long-distance but constant friendship. They’ve already begun to know and appreciate each other, so that, when Slim arrives on Gansett Island, there is a history there. I love everything about the burgeoning love story between Slim and Erin, the way that they relate to each other, the dialogue, the passion. All of it fits right in with the tone of close friendships turned into love stories that are a constant in Marie’s books, and I thoroughly enjoyed reading about them.

I’m not sure that many other authors could take the serious subject that is such a big part of Erin’s background and weave it into the fabric of a love story, but Marie has done a wonderful job. Erin is written as a real woman whose past has left her with issues, but who is open, still, to the possibility of growing beyond the things that have held her back. And Slim, I’m in love with Slim, and pretty much all of the men in this book. His sensitivity, commitment to family, friends, and Erin, make him the realistically perfect book boyfriend.

Now that I’ve read and adored this book, I’ll be making it my business to go back and start at the beginning of the series, and in the meantime, I’m giving DESIRE AFTER DARK 5 romantic, steamy, feel-great stars. If you’re a fan of Marie, of books full of family, friends, love, passion, and humor, move this one right up to the top of your TBR; you will not be sorry.

***ARC generously provided for an honest review.***

_______________________________

The Gansett Series

Get the entire Gansett Island Series
Gansett Island Boxed Set, Books 1-3
Gansett Island Boxed Set, Books 4-6
Gansett Island Boxed Set, Books 7-9
Book 1: Maid for Love
Book 2: Fool for Love
Book 3: Ready for Love
Book 4: Falling for Love
Book 5: Hoping for Love
Book 6: Season for Love
Book 7: Longing for Love
Book 8: Waiting for Love
Book 9: Time for Love
Book 10: Meant for Love
Book 10.5: Chance for Love, A Gansett Island Novella
Book 11: Gansett After Dark
Book 12: Kisses After Dark
Book 13: Love After Dark
Book 14: Celebration After Dark
Book 15: Desire After Dark

______________________________

About Marie Force:

Marie Force is the New York Times bestselling author of contemporary romance, including the Gansett Island Series, which has sold more than 2.2 million books, and the Fatal Series from Harlequin Books, which has sold more than 1 million books. In addition, she is the author of the Green Mountain Series as well as the erotic romance Quantum Series, written under the slightly modified name of M.S. Force. She has sold more than 5 million books worldwide!

Her goals in life are simple–to finish raising two happy, healthy, productive young adults, to keep writing books for as long as she possibly can and to never be on a flight that makes the news.

Join Marie’s mailing list for news about new books and upcoming appearances in your area.

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Latest Release + 5 Star Review + Giveaway : The Dance by Alison G. Bailey

Posted on 05/19/2016 by shellbellereads

Photographer: Abigail Marie, Non Pa’Reil Photography

The Dance is the story of what happens after the happily ever.

Bryson Walker stumbled heart first into the steady rhythm of her life, never questioning whether other possibilities existed. She had been Will’s girl since their junior year in high school, followed him to college, and married him soon after graduation.

In every respect, they were a loving and successful couple, until a series of missteps shattered all of Bryson’s truths. Maybe their life was nothing more than smoke and mirrors. A performance that was never based in reality.

Hart was barely an acquaintance. He and Bryson shared one brief moment during senior prom, full of friction and heat that ignited a spark. But that night Bryson walked away and Hart let her go.

Years later, twisted fate brings Bryson and Hart together again, causing her to wonder if this is her second chance at once in a lifetime.

Buy : Amazon

Robin’s Review

I have enjoyed reading novels written by Alison G. Bailey since the day I picked up Present Perfect back in 2013. Although Bailey writes contemporary romance and new adult novels, her writing has recently taken on a multifaceted aspect. Bailey has been tackling some difficult topics, and she seems to do it with grace. Part women’s fiction, part contemporary romance, The Dance is a story about what occurs after Bryson Forsyth has her happily ever after. I should also note that Will Forsyth and Hart Mitchell each play a huge role in The Dance, and it’s just as much their story as it is Bryson’s.

We are introduced to Bryson when she is in high school. She’s been dating Will for a couple of years, and although he’s not the most attentive boyfriend, she just assumes Will is her future. It doesn’t even occur to Bryson that there might be someone better for her. While Will is hanging out with his friends at Prom, Bryson is alone, wandering the halls of the aquarium. Hart finds Bryson alone in a dark room, where the two of them share a quiet, romantic dance before her best friend steals her away. In the end, Bryson settles for Will, although she never forgets the dance she shared with Hart.

Character growth is one of the very best features of The Dance. Alison Bailey REALLY excelled in this area! Bryson, Will, and even Hart – each of these characters grow by leaps and bounds! Early in this story, I struggled with Bryson and Will. Bryson came across as weak – someone who allows her spouse to dictate her life. Will demeans Bryson without recourse. He is controlling and unsupportive of Bryson’s dreams. BUT, Bryson’s relationship with Will is very important to this story. Bailey wants us to see these characters at their low points, to understand just how bad things are in their marriage, so we can really see them grow as individuals.

Bailey starts to work her magic, and it begins with Hart! I was very intrigued by Hart and Bryson’s attraction to him. What a fantastic character! I soaked up every moment they spent together. I loved their honesty with one another, Hart’s support of Bryson, his patience with Bryson. Their relationship is so special – it was a joy for me to read their dialogue!

Slowly Bryson comes out of her shell. She grows as an individual, gains self-confidence, stands up for herself, and dares to chase her dreams! I was pleasantly surprised by the turn of this story – I ended up LOVING Bryson, Hart is a fantastic book boyfriend, and I found forgiveness in my heart for Will! The development of these characters felt completely natural with the events that transpired. The Dance is one of the best overall examples of character development that I can remember.

I experienced a wide range of emotions while reading The Dance. I felt joy, I smiled and laughed. I cried tears of sadness, felt extreme anger and frustration. I found myself completely absorbed in this story. The Dance was an extremely vivid reading experience for me! My heart felt incredibly full after finishing this 2016 favorite, and when the last page was turned, I still wanted more! Alison G. Bailey earns a 5-star rating from me for The Dance!

the Dance

Prologue

I stood in front of the glass wall, mesmerized. The fake sunlight shimmered down through the water, bouncing off the yellow, green, and pink coral. The blue glow of the tank gave the dimly lit nook a mystical dreamy feel.

The prom committee had pulled off an epic feat this year. Instead of having the dance in our gross school gym it was being held at the new state-of-the-art aquarium downtown. Once the student committee agreed, Megan Sims, head cheerleader and overly developed youth, was given the task of presenting the new location idea to the faculty advisor, Mr. Hall. During the meeting, as Megan waxed poetic about riding the waves of hope out into the ocean of the future, she hoisted her massive boobs up to meet Mr. Hall’s sightline. Three seconds into Megan’s spiel the dude was so titnotized that he would have offered up his first born in order to pay the rental fee.

At first, I had my doubts about spending my final prom at the aquarium. The fishy décor didn’t exactly scream romance, but I had to admit, it was pretty cool. The dance was in Ballroom A, which opened up onto a huge deck facing the Charleston harbor. Inside three giant purple octopus chandeliers hung down from the ceiling, casting cool shadows on the walls covered in varying shades of blue. Big white coral sculptures were at the four corners of the room. Tables draped in white linen with candles and seashell centerpieces outlined the room, leaving a huge space in the middle for dancing.

I was born and raised in Charleston, SC. I attended Winthrop University and graduated with a major in Theater. While at school I began writing one-act plays, which I later produced. My debut novel, Present Perfect, landed on Amazon’s Best Seller List and appeared on many “Best Reads of 2013” Book Blogs. The novel won Best Book at the 2014 Indie Romance Convention Awards. My second novel, Past Imperfect, was published in February of 2014 and appeared on several best books of 2014 lists as well. Presently Perfect, the third and final book in The “Perfect” series was released in Dec 2014 to rave reviews. In March 2015 all the love, swoon, heat, and angst were combined into the Perfect Series Box Set. My fourth novel, Stop!, released in June 2015, becoming a bestseller in YA/Teen category.

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Release Blitz + Excerpt + 5 Star Review: Wicked Heart by Leisa Raven – StarCrossed Series

Posted on 05/18/2016 by shellbellereads

Wicked Heart

StarCrossed Series

By Leisa Rayven

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Synopsis

The one guy she can’t have is the one she can’t forget.

Liam Quinn is one of the biggest movie stars in the world…and the only man Elissa Holt has ever truly loved.

After being out of her life for six years, he and his gorgeous fiancé are set to star in the new Broadway show Elissa is stage managing. The only trouble is, when late night rehearsals bring Elissa and Liam together, the line between what is and what could have been gets blurred. Now one moment of weakness is about to create a scandal that will echo around the world.

Elissa knows that falling for Liam again would be a tragedy in the making, but as any good romantic knows, love doesn’t always follow the script.

_____________________________

Excerpt

FOOL ME ONCE

Present Day

Pier 23 Rehearsal Rooms

New York City

Tingles up my spine. Blood hot and fast beneath my skin.

Goddammit. This isn’t good.

Why is this still happening to me after all these years?

I’m not a girl who swoons easily. I’m really not. If I were to describe myself I’d say I was passionate but logical, fiery but methodical, spontaneous but organized. All of these traits might seem like contradictions, but they make me a damn good stage manager, and I’m not too humble to say that at the age of twenty-five, I’m one of the most respected show runners on Broadway. Producers know they can depend on me to stay calm in a crisis. I run my shows with military precision, and I demand strict professionalism from everyone, especially myself.

My rules for a stress-free work environment are nonnegotiable: Treat everyone with respect, be firm but fair, and do not ever get romantically involved with someone in the show I’m running. For most of my career, I’ve had no problem following my own rules, but there is one thing that can derail my equilibrium in one fell swoop.

Well, not so much one thing as one person.

Liam Quinn.

As I sit in the private cinema with my production team and watch the shirtless man on the screen take down an overwhelming number of enemies, I’m embarrassed by how hot my skin feels. How my breathing is shallow, and my thighs are pressed together. How I drink in every angle of his face and body. How I thrill to the flex of every perfect muscle.

But even more than that, I’m embarrassed how the passion of his performance makes me fantasize about doing passionate things to him. Not just sexual things, but they’re certainly high on the list.

To put it simply, he makes me swoon like it’s his damn job.

He’s the only man who’s ever affected me like this, and it’s safe to say I hold it against him. It’s inconvenient and rude.

He runs toward the gorgeous redhead on the screen and pulls her into a passionate embrace. The redhead is Angel Bell—recent cover model for People’s “Most Beautiful Women in the Known Universe” and basic all-round Goddess. Perfect body. Perfect boobs. Perfect face. She’s playing a seraph princess. Liam is her scorching-hot demon slave. They’ve just about destroyed the world trying to be together, and now Liam’s kissing her like he’ll die if he doesn’t.

Goddamn, that man can kiss.

I cross my legs and sigh. This is insane.

I’m not against being aroused in general, but being aroused by this particular man is a recipe for disaster. The last time I let myself have these feelings for him, it didn’t end well.

I feel a hand on my arm and turn to see one of Broadway’s most respected directors, Marco Fiori, leaning over. His eyes are bright with excitement, and it’s clear I’m not the only one who’s noticed Liam’s … assets.

“Quite the specimen, isn’t he?” Marco whispers.

I shrug. “If you like that sort of thing, I suppose.” My raging hormones scream that we do like that sort of thing. We like it a whole helluva lot.

The only trouble is, we can’t like it, because Liam’s an actor, and we don’t date actors. Also, in a few weeks, I’ll be his stage manager. Also, he’s engaged to his gorgeous costar.

Oh, and perhaps the most important reason is, once upon a time, we had a short but passionate-as-hell relationship and I’ve never recovered.

Somehow, I’ve managed to lock away the heartache he caused, possibly because I blame myself as much as I blame him. But the desire? That’s still roaming free, storming through my composure like a bull in a china shop.

Yep.

This is going to be an interesting project. It will be a miracle if my professionalism and I make it out alive.

______________________________

Robin’s Review

It’s been awhile – a year, in fact – since I immersed myself into the theatrical world of the Starcrossed series. For an author so new to publishing, Leisa Rayven REALLY impressed me with her debut novel, Bad Romeo! Along with writing that was exceptional, what I remember the most about reading Bad Romeo and Broken Juliet is the passion – how the energy between Ethan Holt and Cassie Taylor seemed to leap off of the page. Rayven is now releasing Wicked Heart, the third novel of her Starcrossed series, with the primary characters of this contemporary romance being Elissa Holt, sister of Ethan Holt, and Hollywood actor Liam Quinn.

Liam Quinn has his own Hollywood success story – a superstar who seemed to turn up out of nowhere, but Elissa Holt is all too aware of his humble beginnings. That’s because Liam’s acting career began on Broadway with a theatre production of Romeo and Juliet. When they met, Liam told Elissa he worked in construction, but then he showed up at tryouts for Romeo. Although it was Liam’s first audition to be an actor, his was the best by far, and he was given the role.

From the beginning, Elissa warned Liam that she doesn’t date actors – they have a bad habit of leaving her for the costar – but her warning didn’t discourage him. Liam relentlessly pursued Elissa for the duration of the show, then left for Hollywood to pursue an acting career, leaving Elissa with a broken heart.

Fast forward six years to the present, where Liam and his fiancé, actress Angel Bell, are cast in the Broadway production of Taming of the Shrew, a production where Elissa just so happens to be the stage manager. She now has to endure the daily presence of Hollywood’s golden couple, and Liam is the only man Elissa has ever loved. Oh, how the wicked heart wants what it wants.

Just as she did in Bad Romeo, Rayven was outstanding in translating the attraction, the sexual tension between Liam and Elissa, to page. His relentless pursuit. Her steadfast denial of something she knows will hurt her in the end. The buildup of their attraction is steady and full of angst. But when Elissa finally relents, gives in to what her heart really desires, Liam and Elissa share something special that will mark them both forever. THIS SCENE. I felt the intense power of their connection in this scene – a testiment to great writing. And because Wicked Heart is narrated from Elissa’s first person point of view, we are able experience her heartbreak over their separation. Although the flashback chapters are minimal, they really are key in driving this story forward.

Although Wicked Heart is the third book of a series, it can definitely be read as a standalone. I know love triangles are not a popular theme among readers of contemporary romance, but EVERYONE should give Wicked Heart a chance. There is so much more to this story than what you see on the surface, and it’s worth it. I promise. Wicked Heart is dramatic, sexy, and somewhat humorous. The friendships, the interactions between characters are entertaining. Rayven keeps the dialogue light in places, and although Wicked Heart can be angsty at times, I found myself laughing out loud on many occasions! In summary, Wicked Heart is another quality, 5-star novel from Leisa Rayven. I absolutely enjoyed this 2016 favorite, and I’m already looking forward to her next novel!

_________________________________

About Leisa Rayven

Writing has always been a passion for Leisa, and even though she originally intended to be an actress, it wasn’t long into her time at drama school that she began writing plays.

Those plays were bad. Very bad. Well, her friends thought they were good, but that’s because they were always cast in them and any opportunity to be on stage was met with an obnoxious amount of enthusiasm.

Since then, she’s honed her craft, and several of her plays have been produced and toured throughout Australia.

These days, playwriting has given way to fiction writing, and Leisa’s debut novel, BAD ROMEO, will be available in a worldwide release through Macmillan Publishing in December 2014.

Leisa lives in Australia with her husband, two little boys, three cats, and a kangaroo named Howard.

(Howard may or may not be her imaginary marsupial friend. Everyone should have one.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Release Blitz + Excerpt + 5 Star Review: Smut by Karina Halle

Posted on 05/16/2016 by shellbellereads

What happens when the kink between the pages leads to heat between the sheets?

All Blake Crawford wants is to pass his creative writing course, get his university degree and take over his dad’s ailing family business. What Amanda Newland wants is to graduate at the top of her class, as well as finally finish her novel and prove to her family that writing is a respectful career.

What Blake and Amanda don’t want is to be paired up with each other for their final project but that’s exactly what they both get when they’re forced to collaborate on a writing piece. Since Amanda thinks Blake is a pushy asshole (with a panty-melting smirk and British accent) and Blake thinks Amanda has a stick up her ass (though it’s brilliant ass), they fight tooth and nail until they discover they write well together. They also might find each other really attractive, but that’s neither here nor there.

When their writing project turns out to be a success, the two of them decide to start up a secret partnership together using a pen name, infiltrating the self-publishing market in the lucrative genre of erotica. Naturally, with so much heat and passion between the pages, it’s not long before their dirty words become a dirty reality. Sure, they still fight a lot but at least there’s make-up sex now.

But even as they start to fall hard for each other, will their burgeoning relationship survive if their scandalous secret is exposed or are happily-ever-afters just a work of fiction?

iTunes | Nook | Kobo

She holds my gaze for a moment and something passes over her. Regret, maybe. Then she nods. “Sit down. Let’s work.”
And so we do. And for the first time in a long time, it’s strained. I’m about to suggest maybe we need the Estonian vodka anyway when she lets out an exasperated sigh over something she’s reading.
It happens to be something I wrote.
“What?” I ask, wondering what I did wrong.
She gives me the the ‘are you kidding me?’look. “Okay, I was ignoring it earlier but I think you need to get a grip on some of this shit. This simply does not happen.”
“Explain, please.”
“I just think it’s unrealistic for there to be so much talking, let alone the fact that the first time they do it it’s in a public place.”
“Too much talking?”
“Yeah.” she scans over the document. “You know, give me your cock, oh you feel so good, harder, harder, you’re so big, fuck me harder big boy.”
“Have you even had good sex?” I ask incredulously.
She flinches. “Of course I have. And it’s none of your business.”
“We’re writing about sex. It’s completely my business. I’m not letting you interject your edits based on your personal experiences about sex because believe me, if the sex is good, you’re moaning my name.”
She raises her chin. “Maybe all those girls were faking it.”
Oh, brilliant.
“Excuse me?” I say, hands pressed against the table, nearly getting out of my chair. “You have no idea. I pride myself in giving a girl as many bloody orgasms as she can handle.”
“Bloody orgasms don’t sound like fun,” she jokes softly.
“They can be if you’re into knife play,” I tell her, even though that’s not exactly what I meant. Still, she scrunches up her nose. “Don’t knock it until you try it, but that’s neither here nor there. When you were with Alan, he must have made you come at least a few times.”
If he didn’t, I feel like finding the guy and showing him a thing or two for wasting four years of her life.
“Yeah,” she says flatly.
“And in the middle of that orgasm, didn’t you want to yell a few things?”
“Sometimes.”
“And why didn’t you?”
She looks at her nails as if they’re suddenly fascinating. “It didn’t seem right. It was…too intimate. I would have felt dumb. He didn’t like any of that stuff.”
The plot thickens. “Any of what stuff?”
“Sex that didn’t involve the missionary position or the bed.”
My mouth drops open. My brain and penis can’t compute this. “I feel so sorry for you.”
We must remedy this.
She glares at me. “It’s not like I didn’t want to do it. I did. And he did try it. Most of it. But it always went back to the same old.”
I knew it. She’s a nerd on the streets and a freak in the sheets.
“I don’t mean to brag,” I tell her in all seriousness. “But you do realize that I could give you an orgasm in thirty seconds.”
Her eyes widen. I can’t tell if she’s horrified or intrigued. “I don’t believe you and I don’t want you to try.”
She’s not getting it. I frown, trying to explain. “If you’re having good sex and it’s with someone you’re comfortable with, you won’t worry about holding back. You’ll cry out all the nonsense you want, you’ll make noises like a pig and scream like you’re on fire because you truly can’t have a good orgasm unless you’re letting go on all accounts.” I lean back in my chair and study her, running my fingers along my jaw. “I would venture that every time you came with your ex, you were only experiencing half of what you should have been. How is it with your vibrators?”
I expect her to tell me to fuck off, that I’m getting too personal but to my surprise she gives me a small smile. “It’s better. But I do have a roommate with exceptionally good hearing.” She clears her throat. “Anyway, so I guess I’m wrong. The heroine can make all the noise she wants.”
“And have first time sex in public.”
“I don’t know…”
“Believe me, when you finally get a chance to fuck, you don’t care where it is. That’s why I always have a condom in my pocket. And the more public the sex, the sneakier you have to be, the hotter it is.”
“But in the book you would never get caught.”
“You don’t always get caught in real life too.”
I can see she wants to ask me where I’ve done it but she loses her nerve. “Okay.” She looks back to the document. “I accept defeat.”
But I don’t want her to. I want to prove to her I’m right and not have her take my word.
Is there a non-creepy way to show her just how amazing good sex can feel? I’m thinking not.
Or…maybe there is.

Michel’s Review

In Karina Halle’s latest release, Smut,the readers get to experience the behind the scenes (or should I say pages) how a novel comes to life on the pages. From character development to plot development and getting the right words takes more than most people would think. In the novel Smut, Karina Halle created the dynamic writing team of Blake Crawford and Amanda Newland. What started out as a final assignment in their creative writing turned into a lucrative indie writing team. First they had to get past the hate and misconceptions about one another. Next they had to reveal their inner most thoughts and learn how to put them in words that blended both of their creative minds. Next they had to have the courage to take the next step. The next step is to take their writing team to another level and become paid authors. The most lucrative genre in the indie ebook publishing is erotica. Erotica is neither of their choices in writing but they want to make money and become published authors. It’s a step towards their true writing aspirations. Finding the courage to become successful authors in a field outside of their interest takes a multitude of compromise and beers. Becoming a successful selling author becomes more than a business plan and pushing the publish button. It takes research, research, and more research. Together Blake and Amanda take on the challenge. They do hands on research and write one of the hottest eroitca novel on Amazon. Who knew research was so much fun? Who knew it would lead to friendship and a love beyond their imaginations.

I thoroughly enjoyed Smut by Karina Halle. It was a fun, witty, and sexy book that was extremely entertaining. Karina delivered a light hearted read that any reader of any genre would thoroughly enjoye.

Go and read Smut by Karina Halle!

Karina Halle is a former travel writer and music journalist and The New York Times, Wall Street Journal and USA Today Bestselling author of The Pact, Racing the Sun, Sins & Needles and over 25 other wild and romantic reads. She lives on an island off the coast of British Columbia with her husband and her rescue pup, where she drinks a lot of wine, hikes a lot of trails and devours a lot of books.

Halle is represented by the Waxman Leavell Agency and is both self-published and published by Simon & Schuster and Hachette in North America and in the UK.

Hit her up on Instagram at @authorHalle, on Twitter at @MetalBlonde and on Facebook. You can also visit http://www.authorkarinahalle.com and sign up for the newsletter for news, excerpts, previews, private book signing sales and more.

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Release Blitz + Excerpt + 5 Star Review: Turn It Up by Kim Karr – The Detroit Love Duet – Book 2

Posted on 05/16/2016 by shellbellereads

Turn It Up

The Detroit Love Duet – Book 2

By Kim Karr

Release Date: May 16,2016

Buy : Amazon / Amazon UK / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Synopsis

Charlotte Lane was the tomboy who lived next door.

Eyes the color of the summer sky.

Mounds of curly blond hair.

A little bit of sassy and a whole lot of sweet.

She was my best friend. My confidant. My salvation.

But when circumstances tore us apart, it put more than just miles between us. I hated her. Blamed her for my worst nightmare. And I never wanted to see her again.

Then one wrong turn brought her back into my life and now she’s under my skin. In the midst of all the chaos surrounding us, she’s what’s changing me. Practically bringing me to my knees. Driving me to want to be a better man.

But nothing is ever easy.

And as our worlds begin to crumble…so do we.

Our bond withstood the test of time, but when the future brings the unexpected, it will either draw us closer or tear us apart.

Can we weather the storm?

Excerpt

Jasper Storm

What kind of person willingly drives a thirty-six-foot racing machine at breakneck speed through ten-foot waves?

The kind that isn’t put off by the possibility of smashing his nose against the steering wheel if he has to come to an abrupt stop when racing around the track—that’s who.

Today though, Lake St. Clair tops out with uninhibiting two-foot waves at the most, and my speed is tempered by the amount of passengers on board.

Classic Beatles is playing from the speakers on deck. Drew is leaning back in the cushions of the wraparound benches behind me with a beer in his hand. Jake and Shannon are sitting up in the sun loungers on the bow, both also with brews in hand.

Sitting at the helm, Charlotte is standing next to me in a simple black bikini that shows so much skin it is driving me crazy, her mounds of blond curls blowing in the wind making my fingers itch to run through them, and her sunglasses preventing me from seeing her blue eyes. I wrap my arm around her and guide her to stand in front of me. “You take the wheel.”

“I haven’t driven a boat in years.”

Standing, I pull her even closer. My board shorts feeling tighter by the second. “It’s like riding a bike.”

Looking over her shoulder at me, she gives me a quick kiss on the cheek. “I’ll give it a try,” she says.

Just that slight touch of her lips ignites a fire that starts to flame through my veins. When she takes the wheel, my body is ablaze. Unable to keep my hands off her, I compromise my need to touch her by covering my hands over hers. The cast prohibiting me from making the full connection I’m craving. I hate that she still bears the mark of her attack. I shove that thought away.

It’s a beautiful day, sunny as fuck and not a cloud in sight. The wind has picked up a little the further out we go, and when the softness of her hair brushes against my neck, it sends a shiver racing down my spine.

Taking a seat in the captain’s chair, I pull her onto my lap. The slight curves of her body fit me perfectly. Unable to compromise any longer, discreetly, my hands roam her body. Sliding down her thighs, up her arms, tucking under the small fabric at her hips. I can’t help myself.

Ten minutes or so goes by as we pass over the water like it’s a sheet of glass. I kiss her—her neck, her throat, her jaw. Take a little nip at her shoulder and then soothe it with my tongue.

Concentrating on driving, I’m surprised when she unexpectedly tips her head back so we can kiss.

The instant douse of arousal I feel is unlike that from the small flirtatious moves I’ve been making. This is full-out sexuality. Our lips meet, softly, gingerly. She’s sitting on my thigh, and her ass is against my cock. She shifts a little and I groan softly against the wet slide of her tongue, and all the muscles in my body knot in sweet tension. The fire in my veins bursts into flames from the slight friction, and all I want is more. The pull and push of the connection we share seems to be growing stronger every time we’re together.

Unlatching her lips from mine, she turns back and focuses on the open water.

She feels it too.

The tightening in my cock, the rapid beat of my pulse, and the taste of her left on my tongue puts me into a state of overdrive. I hold onto her fingers, squeeze them, press my naked chest to her bare back, and try to temper my need for her.

Taking what I can, I then inhale a deep breath. Unable to calm the storm raging inside me, I know I have to take action. This isn’t a storm of conflict, this is one of pure male need. “You have to stand up,” I murmur into her ear.

Again, she tips her head back. “Why?”

“You know why.”

The little vixen shifts a little more and grinds a little harder against my cock.

“Behave,” I growl and quickly stand up, bringing her with me, and then I ease up on the throttle and put the cabin cruiser in neutral.

“What’s going on? Jake asks.

I switch the engine off. “Taking a quick dip,” I tell him as I narrow my eyes at Charlotte.

She shrugs all innocent like.

“Remind me to spank you later,” I whisper in her ear.

Surprisingly, I see a thrill in her eyes.

Waggling my brows at her, my little problem is only growing, so I quickly hop up to the side of the boat and dive into the lake. The water is fucking freezing out this far and just what I need. For now anyway.

Splash. Splash.

Michel’s Review

I couldn’t wait to get my hands on Turn It Up by Kim Karr. Set The Pace, the first book in the Detroit Love Duet ended on a huge cliffhanger. I was dying to finish the rest of the story.

Turn It Up should not be read as a stand alone novel. It picks up where Set The Pace left off.

I am not going to go into great detail about Turn It Up because I don’t want to give the readers spoilers for either book. I will say that the Detroit Love duet is a complex romantic suspense that revolves around Detroit and the car industry. It is a murder mystery that spans a 20 year period which includes deaths in the past and deaths in the presence. The mystery of the past was the first negative step in the decline of Detroit City. The recent deaths revolve around the horrific incidents in the past and may affect the future of the City.

Storm Motors is bringing life back to Detroit City. It is the only hope the bankrupt city has. It could bring new industry back to the city. It could revive the declining auto industry. Someone wants to stop Storm Motors from opening it’s doors. Someone wants the secrets to remain buried.

One generation destroyed the city. It destroyed their children. The new generation is living in the aftermath of the destruction. They want to rebuild their city and finally find healing from the past. When bodies start dropping the past is rearing it’s ugly head.

In the midst of all the chaos and excitement, Jasper Storm and Charlotte Lane find each other again. This time around they are adults in control of their own lives. This time around nothing can tear them apart. They will face the monster together and build a strong and hopeful future.

Kim Karr outdid herself with the Detroit Love Duet. I was glued to the pages and deeply invested in the story. The plot was complex, witty, and kept the readers guessing. When all the final revelations are revealed, it leaves the reader reeling.

I highly recommend the Detroit Love Duet by Kim Karr.

_________________________________

The Detroit Love Duet

Set The Pace

The Detroit Love Duet – Book 1

By Kim Karr

Buy : Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Every city needs a hero, but Detroit’s white knight just might be a villain.

A rough childhood branded Jasper Storm trouble. A bad boy. Not worth a damn. His love of cars was the only thing that could battle his delinquency. With the need for speed in his blood, he overcame his wayward ways. Mostly. Now the broken city of Detroit hails him their shining star. And the man behind a new cutting-edge automobile is ready to turn this bankrupt town around.

Charlotte Lane was the tomboy who lived next door. She was his best friend. He was her protector. Then tragedy struck and she disappeared, forever—or so he thought.

Everything Jasper does in life is fast. He talks fast, f*cks fast, and drives fast. But when one reckless turn brings him face-to-face with the childhood he has tried very hard to forget, he finds himself on the edge of wondering if he shouldn’t slow down.

Time hasn’t erased who they are though. Jasper has many reasons to hate Charlotte and keep his distance, which is easier said than done. Soon she’s infiltrating his every thought and he can’t stay away. Back in town with an agenda of her own, she should push him aside. Make him turn around. Walk away herself. Yet she can’t.

With the past lurking between them, they proceed with caution. That is until one sex-filled night leads to murder, and things are forced to change. Now that Detroit’s biggest ally has suddenly become suspect number one, will Charlotte—the girl Jasper once kept safe—be the one to save him?

***

Turn It Up

The Detroit Love Duet – Book 2

By Kim Karr

Release Date: May 16,2016

Buy : Amazon / Amazon UK / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Synopsis

Charlotte Lane was the tomboy who lived next door.

Eyes the color of the summer sky.

Mounds of curly blond hair.

A little bit of sassy and a whole lot of sweet.

She was my best friend. My confidant. My salvation.

But when circumstances tore us apart, it put more than just miles between us. I hated her. Blamed her for my worst nightmare. And I never wanted to see her again.

But nothing is ever easy.

And as our worlds begin to crumble…so do we.

Our bond withstood the test of time, but when the future brings the unexpected, it will either draw us closer or tear us apart.

Can we weather the storm?

********************

I live in Florida with my husband and four kids. I’ve always had a love for reading books and writing. Being an English major in college, I wanted to teach at the college level but that was not to be. I went on to receive an MBA and became a project manager until quitting to raise my family. I currently work part-time with my husband and full-time embracing one of my biggest passions—writing.

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Release Blitz + Excerpt + 5 Star Review + Giveaway: Sway by Adriana Locke

Posted on 05/16/2016 by shellbellereads

Title: Sway

Series: Landry Family #1

Author: Adriana Locke

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Release Date: May 16, 2016

Blurb

BARRETT LANDRY has it all.
Power, prestige, and plenty of women, the dapper politician’s life is pretty phenomenal. But in the midst of the biggest campaign of his life, he needs to focus. The last thing he can afford is a distraction. ALISON BAKER is a work-in-progress.
As a single mother to HUXLEY, she’s rebuilding life on her terms. She’s focused on family, faith, and a future for her son that can’t be taken away. Putting her child first means not being careless, no matter what.A chance encounter forces Barrett and Alison to redefine what they really want out of life. But everything comes at a cost … and sometimes, even for love, it’s a price too steep to pay.

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Purchase Links

AMAZON US / UK

Excerpt

“I want a chance to win you over,” he breathes, peering at me. The way his eyes search mine make it seem like time stands still. “Will you let me try?”

He forces a swallow and the look of hesitation, the internal fight he’s having, isn’t lost on me. It’s there, right beneath the surface, and when I add my concerns to the mix, it’s enough to make me balk. Just a bit.

“I’ll think about it,” I whisper, holding on to the little strand of courage I have left.

“Say yes.”

Instead of responding, I ask, “Where’d you get that scar over your right eye?” I reach out and press gently on the raised skin. I expect him to pull back, but he doesn’t.

My hand shakes as I touch his warmed skin. His forehead is silky and smooth. I’d like to run my hands over every inch of it, feel it ripple beneath my fingertips.

The corner of his lips twitch. “Lincoln hit me in the head with a baseball.”

“Bad reflexes on your part?”

“Wicked curveball on his,” he says, his face breaking out into a full smile.

“I thought he played center field?”

“He does. But he pitched some growing up.”

We stand inches apart, my hand gently brushing down the side of his face. Although I feel like he’d stand here all night and talk to me, it’s not possible.

“I really need to get back to work,” I say, trying to unlock my eyes from his.

“Dinner? This week?”

I can barely resist the look in his eye, the one that implores me to say yes. The one that makes me believe he really does want to have dinner and spend a few hours with me.

I need to get away, put some space between us while I can.

“We ran into each other tonight,” I shrug. “If we’re supposed to see each other again, then I guess we will.” I start to turn away before I completely buckle under his gaze.

“How am I supposed to get ahold of you? I don’t have your number,” he calls after me.

Heading up the steps to the Savannah Room, I glance at him over my shoulder. “You’re the Mayor. Figure it out.”

Tracey’s Review

Well, Adriana Locke has gone and done it again, written a book that I have fallen completely in love with. Every time she releases a new book, I think, ‘Oh, my gosh, this is my favorite, I just love it so much!’ And then, she writes another one, and it happens all over again.

I have to say that Max Quinn from THE PERCEPTION held my heart for a very long time, with his constancy, and his sweet Southern sexiness. What wasn’t to like? But, folks, I’ve gotta tell you, Adriana has written a man that will completely give Max a run for his money, because Barrett Landry is here, and, oh, my word.

Barrett Landry, mayor of Savannah, GA, is everything you’d expect a successful Southern politico to be. Rich, sexy, a true ladies’ man, he’s enjoying all of the perks of his position, and living a pretty sweet life. Alison Baker, once married to a powerful man herself, knows what a life in the spotlight is like, and has come away with less-than-positive experience. Now all she wants is to make a good life for her son and herself, far from the notoriety that once followed her. When a chance encounter brings Barrett and Alison into each others’ sphere, life as they each know it takes an unexpected turn.

SWAY is thoughtfully crafted, and instilled with Adriana’s signature focus on family. Each member of the Landry family, along with Alison’s family and friends, bring personality, humor, and, most importantly, unswerving support, to both Barrett and Alison, and Huxley, Ali’s son, had my heart from his first scene. There are plenty of distinctly unlikable characters, as well, which just adds to the political intrigue that runs throughout the story.

I am absolutely in love with this story, and with the relationship between Barrett and Ali. He is completely swoon-worthy, made even more so by his utter commitment to making things work with Ali. Although the differences between them say that they shouldn’t, the two of them just work, and it’s pure pleasure experiencing it along with them.

“What if this is all wrong?” I ask.
“What if it’s all right?”
“What if we mess this up a million different ways?”
“What if we nail it every way we go at it?” he smirks.
“What if you decide you hate me?”
He laughs, kissing me on the nose.
“What if you decide you’re going to love me forever? Because that, Ms. Baker, is what I’m going to make sure happens.”

Seeing Barrett aspire to become the man that he truly is at heart, and watching the relationship between the two of them unfold, moved SWAY firmly into one of the top spots of my favorite Adriana books, and one of the most enjoyable I’ve read recently. 5 sweet, sexy, ‘I love a man that knows what he wants’ stars for this one. I cannot wait for the rest of the Landrys to get their turn, and will have each book at the top of my TBR.

***ARC generously provided for an honest review.***

____________________________________________

Author Bio

USA Today Bestselling author Adriana Locke lives and breathes books. After years of slightly obsessive relationships with the flawed bad boys created by other authors, Adriana has created her own.

She resides in the Midwest with her husband, sons, and two dogs. She spends a large amount of time playing with her kids, drinking coffee, and cooking. You can find her outside if the weather’s nice and there’s always a piece of candy in her pocket.

For sneak peeks, giveaways, and more, please join Adriana’s Facebook Group, Books by Adriana Locke, or her Goodreads group, All Locked Up.

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New Release + 5 Star Review: Stout by Georgia Cates – Lovibond Series – Book 2

Posted on 05/11/2016 by shellbellereads

Craft beer and the sexy men who brew it.

A beautiful neighbor. A complete stranger. That’s all she was when I moved in next door.

Adelyn Maxwell is my neighbor but she’s no girl next door. The more I come to know her, the more I discover she’s a good girl with a lovely dark side. And maybe I don’t want her to stay on her side of the fence.

I want to disturb the rhythm of her pulse.

I want to see the way her hair spills on the bed when she lies beneath me.

I want her to teach me the dirty pretty things she desires behind closed doors. And she does.

But mostly I want to leave my mark on the most intimate, untouched part of her body. Her heart.

A seemingly insignificant intersection of our lives neither of us recalls suddenly becomes a pivotal moment in our future. We aren’t strangers at all. And our paths aren’t crossing for the first time.

These twists and turns of fate will become one of two things: a wrecking ball to tear us apart or the connection to bond us together forever.

Amazon | iBooks | Kobo

Oliver Thorn’s POV

“Control. And how I feel when you exert your strength over me. Domination. Power. Control. All of it turns me the fuck on.”
“Why?”
“There’s something primal and exhilarating about a man who takes complete control in the bedroom. That’s what it’s about for me. I want to feel desire. Real desire. I need a man who will grab me and make me feel small and vulnerable and feminine. Without hurting me.”
She releases my hands and sits upright, still mounted on top of me. “Outside of the bedroom, it’s all a level playing field. I’m an independent woman, and I control everything in my life. But in the bedroom . . . I want to be controlled by a strong man.”
“And choked.”
“I need an alpha male. I crave the dominance and show of strength he has over me.” She reaches for my hands and intertwines our fingers. “You’re the first man I’ve trusted in years. I couldn’t have let anyone else put their hands on me that way. It had to be you.” She releases my hands and leans over me, propping on her lower arms, but her hands grasp my face. She presses a soft, closemouthed kiss on my lips. “Only you, Thorn.”
She wants an alpha. A controller. A choker.
God help me, I like what I just did to her. I want to do it again. And that’s totally fucked up.
I spent my childhood being controlled, dominated, choked. What kind of person does it make me if I do those things to her? Even if it’s what she wants?
“I can’t, Max.”
She presses her forehead to mine. “You can. You did.” I did. And it was wrong.
So. Fucking. Wrong.
“But not again.”
“I saw your face. You liked my submission. You liked putting your hand on me like that. You weren’t repulsed. And in those few moments when you held my life in your hands, I belonged to you. I knew it. You knew it. And you liked it.”

Michel’s Review

Readers favorite brewery, The Lovibond Brewery, has a new flavor …or should I say a new book in the series. Readers met the crew in Tap, the first book in the series. Next on tap is the brewer behind the beers, Oliver Thorn.

***

Oliver has moved into the perfect dream house. He and his sister had an abusive childhood in their earlier years in life. Even though they were adopted and raised by the amazing Thorn couple, Oliver still carries the scars. He has become a successful man and strives to be a better person. Like most people he has had his ups and downs in life. He has learned to pick himself up, adapt, and move on. When he meets his sexy neighbor Adelyn Maxwell, he’s ready for a new beginning.

***

Adelyn and Oliver are extremely compatible. They are perfect for one another except for the one area that is important in a couple’s relationship. They are not on the same page in the bedroom. Adelyn wants a dominate man. Oliver fears her desires because he never wants to be put in a situation where he feels like an abuser. Together the two have to find mutual ground or move on from something that could make their lives better. A life with with love, passion, and respect.

***

They find a way to work out their sexual problems but there are other roadblocks that could tear their fragile relationship apart.

***

Life isn’t black and white, right or wrong, or good and bad. There are many gray areas with valid points. They will have to learn to compromise and respect each others beliefs and choices.

***

Georgia Cates once again wrote an original love story that features the basic struggle most couples have. Compromise is one of the hardest things to do in a relationship. It takes work.

***

Stout was well written and loaded with sizzling hot moments. The characters came to life and jumped off the pages. It was refreshing to read a mature and intelligent love story.

***

I highly recommend reading Stout. It can be read as a stand alone novel or in series order.

_______________________________________

Georgia resides in rural Mississippi with her wonderful husband, Jeff, and their two beautiful daughters. She spent fourteen years as a labor and delivery nurse before she decided to pursue her dream of becoming an author and hasn’t looked back yet.

When she’s not writing, she’s thinking about writing. When she’s being domestic, she’s listening to her iPod and visualizing scenes for her current work in progress. Every story coming from her always has a song to inspire it.

Representation: All questions regarding subsidiary rights for any of my books, inquiries regarding foreign translation and film rights should be directed to Jane Dystel of Dystel & Goderich.

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Saucy Southern Readers

professional, honest, and timely book reviews

Category Archives: 5-Star

New Release + 5 Star Review + Giveaway: For 100 Days by Lara Adrian – 100 Series

2016 Favorite…5 + Star Review…Excerpt …Giveaway- Charged by Jay Crownover – The Saints of Denver Series

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About CHARGED:

From the New York Times bestselling author of the Marked Men books comes the second installment in the Saints of Denver series featuring a bad girl and a by the book attorney who could be her salvation…or her ruin.

Avett Walker and Quaid Jackson’s worlds have no reason to collide. Ever. Quaid is a high powered criminal attorney as slick as he is handsome. Avett is a pink-haired troublemaker with a bad attitude and a history of picking the wrong men.

As they work side-by-side, they’ll have to figure out a way to get along and keep their hands off each other—because the chemistry between them is beyond charged.

And don’t miss the first titles in The Saints of Denver Series!

LEVELED

BUILT

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CHARGED Goodreads ** Jay Crownover Goodreads

Release Blitz + 5 Star Review: Sugar Daddy by Sawyer Bennett – Sugar Bowl Series – Book 1

Release Blitz + 5 Star Review: Desire After Dark by Marie Force – Gansett Island Series – Book 15

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Latest Release + 5 Star Review + Giveaway : The Dance by Alison G. Bailey

the Dance

Release Blitz + Excerpt + 5 Star Review: Wicked Heart by Leisa Raven – StarCrossed Series

Release Blitz + Excerpt + 5 Star Review: Smut by Karina Halle

What happens when the kink between the pages leads to heat between the sheets?

But even as they start to fall hard for each other, will their burgeoning relationship survive if their scandalous secret is exposed or are happily-ever-afters just a work of fiction?

iTunes | Nook | Kobo

Release Blitz + Excerpt + 5 Star Review: Turn It Up by Kim Karr – The Detroit Love Duet – Book 2

Release Blitz + Excerpt + 5 Star Review + Giveaway: Sway by Adriana Locke

New Release + 5 Star Review: Stout by Georgia Cates – Lovibond Series – Book 2

Craft beer and the sexy men who brew it.

A beautiful neighbor. A complete stranger. That’s all she was when I moved in next door.

Adelyn Maxwell is my neighbor but she’s no girl next door. The more I come to know her, the more I discover she’s a good girl with a lovely dark side. And maybe I don’t want her to stay on her side of the fence.

I want to disturb the rhythm of her pulse.

I want to see the way her hair spills on the bed when she lies beneath me.

I want her to teach me the dirty pretty things she desires behind closed doors. And she does.

But mostly I want to leave my mark on the most intimate, untouched part of her body. Her heart.

A seemingly insignificant intersection of our lives neither of us recalls suddenly becomes a pivotal moment in our future. We aren’t strangers at all. And our paths aren’t crossing for the first time.

These twists and turns of fate will become one of two things: a wrecking ball to tear us apart or the connection to bond us together forever.

Amazon | iBooks | Kobo

Oliver Thorn’s POV

Share this:

Amazon ** iBooks ** Barnes & Noble ** Kobo

About CHARGED:

From the New York Times bestselling author of the Marked Men books comes the second installment in the Saints of Denver series featuring a bad girl and a by the book attorney who could be her salvation…or her ruin.

Avett Walker and Quaid Jackson’s worlds have no reason to collide. Ever. Quaid is a high powered criminal attorney as slick as he is handsome. Avett is a pink-haired troublemaker with a bad attitude and a history of picking the wrong men.

As they work side-by-side, they’ll have to figure out a way to get along and keep their hands off each other—because the chemistry between them is beyond charged.

And don’t miss the first titles in The Saints of Denver Series!

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CHARGED Goodreads ** Jay Crownover Goodreads

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the Dance

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What happens when the kink between the pages leads to heat between the sheets?

But even as they start to fall hard for each other, will their burgeoning relationship survive if their scandalous secret is exposed or are happily-ever-afters just a work of fiction?

iTunes | Nook | Kobo

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Craft beer and the sexy men who brew it.

A beautiful neighbor. A complete stranger. That’s all she was when I moved in next door.

Adelyn Maxwell is my neighbor but she’s no girl next door. The more I come to know her, the more I discover she’s a good girl with a lovely dark side. And maybe I don’t want her to stay on her side of the fence.

I want to disturb the rhythm of her pulse.

I want to see the way her hair spills on the bed when she lies beneath me.

I want her to teach me the dirty pretty things she desires behind closed doors. And she does.

But mostly I want to leave my mark on the most intimate, untouched part of her body. Her heart.

A seemingly insignificant intersection of our lives neither of us recalls suddenly becomes a pivotal moment in our future. We aren’t strangers at all. And our paths aren’t crossing for the first time.

These twists and turns of fate will become one of two things: a wrecking ball to tear us apart or the connection to bond us together forever.

Amazon | iBooks | Kobo

Oliver Thorn’s POV

Share this:

Amazon iBooks Barnes & Noble ** Kobo

Website Blog Facebook ** Twitter

**Twitter Facebook Author Goodreads Newsletter Pinterest