Saucy Southern Readers

5 Star Review: Seth & Greyson by Jessica Sorensen- The Coincidence Series – Book &

Posted on 04/10/2015 by shellbellereads

Seth & Greyson

The Coincidence Series – Book 7

By Jessica Sorensen

After being betrayed by someone he thought he loved, Seth leaves for college hoping to get a new start. But leaving his past behind is more complicated than he expected, and underneath his upbeat attitude, Seth struggles with opening up to people.

Then he meets Greyson.

Seth is instantly drawn to Greyson and his sweet and charming personality. But even though he feels a strong connection with Greyson, Seth’s still hesitant to open his heart to love.

With the help of his best friend Callie, Seth realizes he needs to overcome his fear of commitment. But will he be able to finally admit how he truly feels about Greyson?

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

As I sit down in a desk toward the back of the room, I try not to think about what my mother said this morning, but I find myself assessing each person as they enter.

It’s not until the object of my stalking walks through the doorway that I consider maybe my crazy mother was right. I quickly realize how insane that would make me for believing her and force myself to stop thinking like my mother. I’ve always been more levelheaded than both my parents, and I want to hold onto the trait.

Tearing my attention away from him, I lean over to grab my textbook and a pen out of my bag. When I sit up, I’m surprised to find he’s taken the desk right next to mine.

Up close, he’s even better looking, but there’s a hint of nervousness in his eyes that I didn’t notice while looking through the lens, which is kind of strange. Usually, I see more when I’m taking pictures. Or maybe he was just happier when he was around his friend.

“Hey,” he greets me with a slightly nervous smile.

“Hey.” I rack my brain for something to say that won’t make me sound awkward, but he beats me to the punch.

“I’m Seth,” he says, extending his hand to me.

“Greyson.” I take his hand, noting it shakes a little in mine. “Is this your first class?”

“For the fall semester, yeah.”

“You’re not a freshman?”

“No, I am,” he replies. “I just started the year this summer.”

I smile, and decide to flirt a little, see where it goes. “So you should be a pro at classes by now.”

“You would think so,” he muses. “But I’m not a fan of school and being a fantastic student is at the bottom of my list, right between getting a good night’s rest and becoming friends with my slobbish roommate.”

“You live in the dorm?” I ask and he nods. “I actually thought about doing that, but my parents insisted I need a place of my own. That it’s good for my aura.”

His brow cocks. “Aura?”

“Yeah, they’re a little crazy like that, but in a good way.” I try to pick up on the vibe he’s giving. Is he just being friendly? Or is he interested in me?

I watch as his eyes trail down over my neck and chest, suddenly realizing that we’re still holding hands. Definitely a bit awkward, but in a good way. And that means he’s interested, right?

When his gaze reaches our joined hands, he startles and quickly pulls away. I catch a flash of alarm in his eyes as he scans the room before looking back at me.

He clears his throat. “So, you just moved here?”

I wonder why he’s acting so weird suddenly. Maybe I misread his interest. Doubtful, though, so what is it? “Yeah, from Florida.”

His eyes snap wide. “Holy shit. How the hell did you end up going from the sunshine state to cowboy central?”

“Is Wyoming cowboy central? I thought that was Texas?”

“Clearly, you haven’t been around when the fair rolls in. It’s like rodeo central. Nothing but cowboy hats, boots, and ridiculously tight pants as far as the eye can see.”

“Sounds… interesting, I guess.”

“Try horrifying. Some of the stuff I’ve seen through those tight jeans,” he shudders, “still haunts my nightmares.”

I laugh at him and he grins, obviously pleased with himself. Like how he was with the girl earlier, he seems to enjoy making people laugh.

I consider what my mom said about finding friends and going out on dates. He’s hot, nice, and funny. As long as I can keep the conversation going and find the right moment, I might ask him out. Get myself out of the damn rut I’ve been in.

Michel’s Review

I am so happy that Jessica Sorensen wrote Seth & Greyson’s book. These two guys have been the backbone that held all the other characters in this series together. They offered unconditional friendship and support. They lent their shoulders when needed. They helped their friends see the fun side of life. They showed their friends that love comes in many different ways and it is important to hold onto it.

We first met Seth in the very first book that started the series. He befriended a lost and socially inept girl. He drew her out of shell, accepted who she was, and began helping her become a better person. He is an old soul with a perceptive kind of wisdom. He was there when Callie fell for Kayden. He was there when Kayden needed support. He was there when Luke needed a friend even though he didn’t know he needed it.

During this time he met Greyson. He was reluctant to start a friendship, let alone relationship with him. Seth had a very horrific experience that not only left him scarred physically but also left him scarred emotionally. It has caused him to be cautious about showing people who he really is. He is cautious about exposing his sexual orientation.

Greyson is open about who he is and what he wants. He came from an accepting family and never had to hide who he was. Although he is free to be who he is, he has never really had a meaningful relationship. He has trouble expressing himself and comes across as aloof and reserved. Now that he has met Seth he wants to open his heart and soul completely.

Seth and Greyson will have to work through their inner issues. Together they will come out stronger and happier.

Seth and Greyson are phenomenal young men that captured my heart from the beginning. I am happy to know their story.

Jessica Sorensen is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author from the snowy mountains of Wyoming. When she’s not writing, she spends her time reading and hanging out with her family.

Facebook | Twitter | Website | Goodreads

The Coincidence Series Reading Order

1. The Coincidence of Callie and Kayden

Amazon/ Barnes and Noble / ITunes

2. The Redemption of Callie and Kayden

3. The Destiny of Violet & Luke

4. The Probability of Violet & Luke

5. The Certainty of Violet & Luke

6. The Resolution of Callie and Kayden

7. Seth and Greyson

Buy – Amazon

The Unbeautiful Series

A Spinoff of the Coincidence Series

1. Unbeautiful

Buy – Amazon

2. Untamed

Buy: Amazon

Happy Release + 5 Star Review + Giveaway: Still The One by Jill Shalvis- Animal Magnetism Series- Book 6

Posted on 04/07/2015 by shellbellereads

Still The One

Animal Magnetism Series- Book 6

By Jill Shalvis

Synopsis

Darcy Stone is game for anything—except sexy Navy vet and physical therapist AJ Colten, the guy who’d rejected her when she’d needed him most. Now the shoe is on the other foot and he needs her to play nice and help him secure grants for his patients. Unfortunately Darcy can’t refuse. She needs the money to fund her passion project: rescuing S&R dogs and placing them with emotionally wounded soldiers.

AJ admits it—Darcy is irresistible. But he’s already been battle-scarred by a strong-willed, vivacious, adventurous woman like Darcy, and he’s not making the same mistake twice—until he and Darcy are forced to fake a relationship. Growing closer than they’d ever imagined possible, Darcy and AJ have to ask themselves: how much between them is pretend? What’s the real thing? And where does it go from here?

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Excerpt

AJ held the door open for Darcy, doing his best to keep his tongue in his mouth, but he wasn’t sure he quite managed.

“Thanks,” she said, brushing up against his arm and shoulder as she stepped into the elevator.

His free hand came out to stabilize her, a purely instinctual move. He didn’t give a thought to the fact that she hated to be helped because he couldn’t give a thought to anything.

Holy. Shit. Hotness.

Her little black dress—emphasis on little—just about killed him.. The bodice was short, snug, and, at first glance, modest.

Second glance, not so much.

She bent over and fiddled with her heels, which had a strap around her ankle and screamed SEX. So did the way the hem of her dress rose up on her thighs, high enough that his eyes nearly popped right out of his head. “What are you doing?” he managed.

“Nothing.” Still bent at the waist, she shifted to her other heel, during which time he pressed his fingers into his eye sockets to keep his eyes in his head.

She was all leg and silken skin and crazy gorgeous hair, and he attempted to steel himself against her but he failed. He’d been wrong, oh so very wrong when he said he’d be able to handle her. He couldn’t, not in her yoga pants, not in a sexy little black dress, not at work, not in his truck, not in an elevator, not in anything anywhere—he couldn’t do it, Sam I Am.

She straightened and sent him a searching look. She’d piled all that long curly hair on top of her head but several silky strands had escaped, brushing her temples and shoulders, giving her a just-got-laid look. Her lips were siren red and he knew it made him a pig, but all he could think about was her mouth and how her lips would looked stretched around his—

“We’re on time still, right?” she asked.

He had to clear his throat to answer. “Yeah.” Jesus.

The door slid shut and silence filled the elevator while they stared at each other. To keep his hands to himself, he backed to the wall.

“So,” she said, looking like she was mentally cracking her knuckles. “What are the rules here? Kiss ass? Sit, shake, and roll over on command? Tell everyone how you saved my life? Obey your every order?”

Her sarcasm helped him roll his tongue back into his mouth. “I will ask you to kiss someone’s ass never,” he said. “Same for sit and shake and roll over. And you know damn well I didn’t save your life. But as for the obeying me? That. Lots of that would be great.”

Tracey’s Review

Darcy Stone is what some might refer to as ‘prickly.’ Having made a long and difficult recovery from a horrific accident, she’s just beginning to accept her current life as the new normal. Once a globe-trotting journalist, Darcy is back home in Sunshine, ID, splitting her time between saving retired rescue animals and working as a receptionist at the Sunshine Wellness Center. Well, that and trying to avoid AJ Colten, physical therapist and bane of Darcy’s existence. Because AJ has known Darcy and her family for a very long time, and can call her on her stuff like no one else. Add to that the fact that just his being nearby makes Darcy’s hormones go haywire, and it makes perfect sense that he’s her Public Enemy Number One and one of the three things topping her list of ‘never evers.’

It takes a very special author to write a romance series that readers are invested in, that keep them coming back, eager for the next book. Jill Shalvis continually creates stories and characters that do just this. In Still the One, the six book in her Animal Magnetism series, Jill has given us characters that are real, who are dealing with all the curveballs life throws at them and making their way through. I love AJ and Darcy, both separately and as a couple. Having dealt with pain and loss in their pasts, they are afraid to let love in, to surrender control. They both possess such strength, though, and bring out the best in each other, and watching them work their way around the obstacles is by turn poignant and amusing. The snarky back-and-forth and sizzling chemistry add to their appeal, and make for an absolutely heartwarming read. Throw in the hominess of small-town community and old friends from earlier books, and you’ve got a thoroughly enjoyable read, easily earning 5 sassy, swoony stars that will keep you reading until the very end.

_______________________________

Author Bio

New York Times Bestselling author Jill Shalvis wrote RESCUE MY HEART and FOREVER AND A DAY, along with many other romance novels including her acclaimed Lucky Harbor series. The Rita winner and 3-time National Readers Choice winner makes her home near Lake Tahoe. Visit her website at http://www.jillshalvis.com for a complete book list and daily blog, and http://www.facebook.com/jillshalvis for other news.

Giveaway

Release Blitz + 5 Star Review + Giveaway: Silver Bastard by Joanna Wylde- Silver Valley Series – Book 1

Posted on 04/07/2015 by shellbellereads

Silver Bastard

The Silver Valley Series – Book 1

By Joanna Wylde

Release Date: April 7, 2015

Buy : Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Synopsis

First in the new Silver Valley series from the New York Times bestselling author of the Reapers Motorcycle Club Novels

Fourteen months. For fourteen months, Puck Redhouse sat in a cell and kept his mouth shut, protecting the Silver Bastards MC from their enemies. Then he was free and it was time for his reward—full membership in the club, along with a party to celebrate. That’s when he saw Becca Jones for the first time and set everything in motion. Before the night ended he’d violated his parole and stolen her away from everything she knew.

Five years. It was five years ago that Puck destroyed Becca and saved her all in one night. She’s been terrified of him ever since, but she’s even more terrified of the monsters he still protects her from… But Becca refuses to let fear control her. She’s living her life and moving forward, until she gets a phone call from the past she can’t ignore. She has to go back, and there’s only one man she can trust to go with her—the ex-con biker who rescued her once before.

Puck will help her again, but this time it’ll be on his terms. No more lies, no more tears, and no more holding back what he really wants…

Buy : Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Excerpt

“What the fuck happened out here?” Danielle asked, her arm suddenly around my shoulders. I immediately felt better. Danielle and I balanced each other out perfectly—she was batshit crazy and insanely optimistic. Make that dangerously, recklessly optimistic. As for me, I spent nearly all my time focused on staying sane and getting ahead. That didn’t leave much time for things like actually living my life.

We’d met each other our senior year of high school, when she’d offered to drive me back and forth to town in her shiny new Jeep Wrangler. This spared me from the horror of sharing a battered school bus with every hormonal teen living in the greater Callup metropolitan area. After a particularly harrowing ride home in her car one night (long story short, it took us six hours to travel thirty miles and by the time we pulled into town, we had matching tattoos of chipmunks wearing scarves) I decided it was my job to keep her from accidentally killing herself.

In return, she pushed me to do fun things, reminding me at least once a week that I was only twenty-one and perhaps the fate of the universe didn’t literally rest on whether or not I balanced my checkbook to the penny. Along the way, she taught me how to do smoky eye makeup, how not to freak out when a guy asked me to dance, and how to “borrow” music off the Internet. (When I pointed out that “borrowing” music was stealing, she agreed and started using iTunes for her downloads. To finance this, she “borrowed” her dad’s credit card.)

“Well, apparently me and Blake no longer work here,” I said, leaning my head against her. “I don’t know if you’re fired or not.”

“Fuck that,” Danielle declared. “Eva can kiss my ass. If you’re out, I’m out.”

“You weren’t even part of it,” I protested.

“I don’t care. You’re a much better waitress than I am. If she fired you, no way I’d last there anyway. Let’s go get drunk!”

Michel’s Review

The Reapers aren’t the only MC that is ruling in Idaho. The Silver Bastards are ruling the Silver Valley area and they protect what is theirs. We have met a few of the members of the Silver Bastards in various Reaper books. The Silver Bastards are friends and allies with the Reapers. They have each others backs.

Puck Redhouse was a recruit in the last Reaper book, Reaper’s Stand. He is a hard young man that was raised in the club life. He knows the ins and outs, do’s and don’ts, and the code to live by. He has served time to protect his brothers and the club. He has made long term friendships and lifetime enemies. He wouldn’t change a thing except the night he almost ruined not only his own life but the life of Becca Jones.

That one night formed a bond between Becca and Puck that could not be broken. In fact, five years later, even though they have avoided one another, the bond is stronger than both care to admit.

Becca was also raised in the MC world. Her experiences were quite different than Puck’s. The club she grew up in was not like the Silver Bastards or the Reapers. She has witnessed the worst of the worst. She escaped that life and no longer wants any part of that world. But that is the world in Silver Valley.

As Becca builds a new life she grows as an individual. She has dreams, goals, and determination. She is going to school and working full time. She has made her small cheap apartment a home. She has made friends that will stand by her no matter what. She has a good life. She tries very hard not to look back. She will never allow herself to live like she was raised. The only thing she can’t put behind her is Puck. She is still deeply attracted to him. At the same time she is fearful of him. He lives the life that she ran from.

It will take the past coming back to haunt her to make her open her eyes to the reality of what her life really is. It will open her eyes and make her see the man Puck has always been. It will take a man like Puck to show her that her demons will never touch her life again. But demons are not easily slayed. The devil himself is on her tail. Her life is crumbling and Puck can’t change that.

At the same time, Silver Valley has it’s own problems brewing. It will be up to the Silver Bastards and the Reapers to protect their beloved town and area. The Irish mob is moving in. The Silver Bastards are not welcoming them. Trouble is brewing.

Through it all, Becca and Puck will find each other again. They will learn that there are two sides to every coin. They will learn to give and take. They will learn the true meaning of love.

Joanna Wylde has another sensational series that will take readers by storm.

I can’t wait for the next book.

I highly recommend Silver Bastard. It can be read without reading the Reapers MC series. There is also a bonus novella that will give the readers insight to the Silver Bastard’s president, Boonie. I absolutely loved it!

About Joanna Wylde

Joanna is a freelance writer living in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. She started writing fiction in 2002, then took a long hiatus to explore other writing opportunities. She returned to fiction in January 2013 with ‘Reaper’s Property’, the first book in the Reapers Motorcycle Club series, and has recently released ‘Reapers Legacy’, the second of the series.

GIVEAWAY
Signed Paperback of Silver Bastard (3 copies)

Release Blitz + 5 Star Review: When I’m Gone by Abbi Glines- Rosemary Beach Series – Book 11

Posted on 04/07/2015 by shellbellereads

When I’m Gone

Rosemary Beach Series – Book 11

By Abbi Glines

Synopsis

From #1 New York Times bestselling author Abbi Glines comes the next new adult novel in the Rosemary Beach series, in which we meet Mase, a Texas heartthrob first introduced in Take a Chance who comes to Rosemary Beach to stir things up.

I had an urge to fix all her problems. Which was stupid. She was doing fine without me. But something about those big eyes…

Mase Colt-Manning has always preferred his humble life as a Texas rancher to his birthright as the son of a legendary rock star. In fact, he rarely visits his father’s rarefied world in Rosemary Beach, especially if it means bunking at his vile half-sister Nan’s house—until one visit leads to a chance encounter with a young, gorgeous house maid who awakens him with her off-key but spirited imitation of a country music star…

Reese Ellis finally has her freedom. After escaping a lifetime of abuse from her parents and classmates for an undiagnosed learning disorder, she seizes the opportunity to be a house maid to some of the richest families in Rosemary Beach. But her job is in jeopardy when she causes an accident at the home of her most important client, Nan Dillon. When a hot, half-naked stranger with a cowboy’s swagger comes to her rescue, she’s intrigued—then afraid once he shows his own interest. Reese has never met a trustworthy man in her life. Will Mase be any different?

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Michel’s Review

It’s hard to believe that this is the eleventh book in the Rosemary Beach series by Abbi Glines. This series has captured the readers hearts. The dynamic characters from this series not only find their happily ever after, they have formed a deep bond of friendship and family. They look out for one another, protect the ones they love, and always have each others backs.

Mase Colt Manning may not be from Rosemary Beach, but he has a very important part in the lives of those that are. He is the illegitimate son of Kiro Manning, the lead singer of Slacker Demon. He is very close with his half sister Harlow. He has grown up with Rush Finlay and become very good friends. He has been around Grant and Nan all his life. He is a Texan that can fit in with country club gang at Rosemary Beach as easily as he fits in at his ranch.

While visiting his sister Harlow in Rosemary Beach, he meets Reese Ellis. She is his other half sister, Nan’s, maid. When an accident occurs in Nan’s home, it brings Reese to Mase’s attention. He’s determined to get to know her.

Reese is unlike any girl that Mase has met. She’s kind, witty, shy, and beautiful. She seems to be harboring a lot of insecurities and secrets. When Mase finds out one of her secrets, he’s determined to help her overcome it. He wants her to realize that she is just as good as any of the other people from Rosemary Beach.

They form a close friendship that is evolving into a relationship. Life has a way of throwing obstacles that can destroy their new found love. One of those obstacles is his sister Nan. She has a way of poisoning everything that comes into her path.

Reese will have to overcome her fears, her insecurities, and her past. If she can do this she will be able to experience the love of a lifetime with Mase.

As always, Abbi Glines wrote another fantastic book that made not only Rosemary Beach crew come to life, but also those quirky relatives in Texas. I absolutely loved Mase. He is the kind of man every woman can fall in love with.

When I’m Gone by Abbi Glines was a fantastic addition to the Rosemary Beach series. I am looking forward to seeing who is up next on the Rosemary Beach roster. And yes…I am still a Nan hater!

______________________

Author Bio:

Since publishing her first novel Breathe in May of 2011, Abbi has also released The New York Times bestselling Seabreeze Series which includes Breathe, Because of Low, While It Lasts, Just For Now and Sometimes It Last, The Existence Trilogy that includes the USA Today Bestseller Ceaseless. New York Times and USA TODAY bestsellers The Vincent Boys and The Vincent Brothers. Last but not least her most popular series to date, Rosemary Beach which includes The New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestsellers Fallen Too Far, Never Too Far, Forever Too Far, Twisted Perfection and Simple Perfection. Her newest book scheduled to be released on December 17th, 2013 is Misbehaving (Seabreeze).

When Abbi isn’t locked away in her office typing away she is hauling her kids to and from their many social activities. You could say her second job is the Glines Kids personal chauffeur. It’s a rather illustrious job.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Release Blitz + Review: Clash: A Legal Affairs Story by Sawyer Bennett – Book # 1 of Cal and Macy’s Story

Posted on 04/07/2015 by shellbellereads

Clash: A Legal Affairs Story

Book # 1 of Cal and Macy’s Story

By Sawyer Bennett

Synopsis

Clash (verb): to conflict, disagree.

It might be fair to say that I despise Macy Carrington. She slings insults with precision, not caring about the destruction she leaves in her wake. We clash in a battle of wills every time we’re around each other, and yet… I still fantasize about being lodged deep within her body.

Clash (verb): to come together or collide.

I have never encountered someone that grates me the way Cal Carson does. His pompous, arrogant demeanor. A holier-than-thou attitude. Any interaction with “Saint Cal” ends in a verbal clash of epic proportions, and yet… there’s no one I’d rather have in my bed than him.

Clash (noun): a battle, fight or skirmish.

Her breathy moans mingle with the sound of our flesh coming together, clashing with the silence that surrounds us, dispelling any notions I once had about Macy Carrington.

Maybe I can break down her walls if we can call a truce to this battle.

He whispers filthy words in my ear, provoking feelings I never knew were possible. The burning desire in his touch clashes with everything I once believed about Cal Carson.

Maybe he can be the balm I need to soothe my broken soul, if only temporarily.

**Clash is the first book in this Legal Affairs trilogy and is releasing on 4/7/15. Grind will be released on 4/21/15 and Yield will be released on 5/5/15.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Google Play

Michel’s Review

Clash: A Legal Affairs Story by Sawyer Bennett is a spin off of the best selling Legal Affairs Serial. The characters were secondary characters in the Legal Affairs Serial. Macy Carrington and Cal Carson are starring in their own story. It is going to be a wild ride in and out of the bedroom.

Cal Carson is Mac’s law partner. They formed a close friendship as well as a successful law practice. Although Mac really likes Cal, the jury is out as far Matt Conniver is concerned. He still has trust issues over their former friendship. Macy Carrington has reached her verdict, she cannot stand the self righteous, strait laced, stick up his butt Cal Carson. She thinks he is the biggest jerk she has ever met. But she tries to stay civil for her best friend Mac’s sake.

Although Cal Carson values his friendship with Mac, he has deep reservations about her best friend Macy Carrington. Macy is a spoiled rotten rich princess. He assumes that she is self entitled and can’t understand how Mac can tolerate her. She is known for her loose morals and vicarious sexual appetite. She has no qualms about her sexual activity. It’s hard for Cal to understand because most of his experiences with women revolve around them wanting a committed relationship. He has reached the point in his life where he wants to be settled and start a family. So he is looking at Macy through rose colored glasses.

Needless to say, these two clash. It is like trying to mix oil & vinegar. But one encounter in the pantry of a kitchen will result in some down and dirty angry sex. Both will walk away with battlescars. Both will be surprised by their opponent. Both will be desiring more of the “angry” sex. Can they still be adversaries and still screw like bunnies? Or was the kitchen incident a one time thing? Stay tuned in for the next installment….Grind.

Sawyer Bennett has done it again. The latest in the Legal Affairs world is a red hot and sensual. Cal and Macy’s story is completely different from Mac and Matt’s story. Their erotic journey is going to be full of some wild monkey sex and more. I have a feeling that Cal Carson has some delicious surprises under his Armani suit. Macy Carrington has met her match!

Author Bio:
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. Her husband works for a Fortune 100 company which lets him fly all over the world while she stays at home with their daughter and three 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.

Sawyer is the author of several contemporary romances including the popular Off Series, the Legal Affairs Series and the Last Call Series.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

5 Star Review: Sea of Stars by Amy A. Bartol- Kricket Series- Book 2

Posted on 04/06/2015 by shellbellereads

Sea of Stars

The Kricket Series – Book 2

By Amy A. Bartol

Synopsis

Eighteen-year-old Kricket Hollowell was looking for her place in the world when she discovered that the universe was bigger—and more dangerous—than she had ever dreamed. Now, whisked across space to the planet Ethar, Kricket learns that her genetic ability to see the future makes her a sought-after commodity…and the catalyst for war between her star-crossed parents’ clans. According to Alameedan prophecy, one house will rise to power and the other will be completely wiped out, and Kricket’s precognition is believed to be the weapon that will tip the scales.

A target of both the Rafe and the Alameeda houses, Kricket finds protection—and a home—in the arms of Trey, her Etharian bodyguard-turned-boyfriend. But her visions of what’s to come disturb her deeply, especially since she must discover whether the gift of foresight will allow her to rewrite the future, or if her fate is as immovable as the stars.

The highly anticipated sequel to Under Different Stars, winner of four 2014 utopYA Awards.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Robin’s Review

If you have not read the novel Under Different Stars, this review may contain spoilers. I would like to express my appreciation to NetGalley and 47North for the opportunity to read and review Sea of Stars.

I’d like to introduce you to the world of author Amy A. Bartol. She writes novels in the young adult genre. Paranormal, science fiction and fantasy with a touch of romance. She is probably better-known as the author of the Premonition series. I plowed through every novel of the Premonition series during the early months of 2013. Although her paranormal romance series about angels continues to be a work in progress, Bartol surprised readers with something completely different back in December of 2013. It was a novel titled Under Different Stars, and it was the first novel of a brand new series.

The Kricket series is a combination of science fiction and fantasy. Science fiction is not my usual cup of tea, but I knew Amy A. Bartol was capable of writing a creative and exciting new story. This review is specifically for the second novel of the Kricket series, Sea of Stars, but I’ll give a brief summary of Under Different Stars for readers who are interested in this series.

In Under Different Stars, we learn eighteen-year-old Kricket Hollowell grew up in the foster care system of Chicago, Illinois. In recent years, Kricket has become an expert at evading case workers, learning how to blend in and live on her own. She has always longed for someplace she could call home. Trey Allairis is given the assignment of locating Kricket. He is to retrieve her from Earth and bring her to Ethar. Kyon Ensin knows just how special Kricket is. She’s not just your average teenager from Chicago, and he is also in the process of locating Kricket.

Trey is from the House of Rafe; Kyon is from the House of Alameeda. Kricket learns her father is Rafian, and her mother is a Priestess from the House of Alameeda. She learns her ability to see the future is a catalyst for a war between her parent’s clans. Under Different Stars is a fantastic start to the Kricket series. We learn about the differences and conflict between the five houses of Ethar and why Kricket is so important to their future.

This brings me to Sea of Stars. If you have read any of her novels, you already know Amy A. Bartol has a fantastic imagination! Under Different Stars sets the stage for the rest of the Kricket series. We are introduced to the world of Ethar, which is very different from Earth. When I think of the differences, it makes me realize the amount of thought Bartol put into this series! Bartol created a unique language specifically for the Etharians. When I sat down to read Sea of Stars, it had been months since I read Under Different Stars. I had forgotten what many of the Etharian words mean, so I was very happy to discover Bartol included a glossary for her readers to refer to. And that glossary was a lifesaver for me – don’t be afraid to use it!

Sea of Stars is full of strategy and nonstop action and completely unexpected twists and turns! I really thought I understood who the bad guys were after reading Under Different Stars, but now I’m not so sure. We have an antagonist who I am strangely empathizing with. This is confusing for me because I absolutely love the relationship between Kricket and Trey. We are introduced to new characters who are in pursuit of Kricket in Sea of Stars. What are their agendas? Do they have good or bad intentions? And, finally, war breaks out on Ethar. All of that nonstop action that I mentioned earlier? Sea of Stars just steamrolls into pure awesomeness throughout the entire story! It keeps getting better and better until we finally reach the climax! For all of these reasons, I am giving Sea of Stars a 5-star rating and placing it on my list of 2015 favorites! Don’t be afraid to try something different. I highly recommend the Kricket series!

The Kricket Series

Under Different Stars

The Kricket Series- Book 1

By Amy A. Bartol

Synopsis

Kricket Hollowell never wished upon stars. She was too busy hiding in plain sight, eluding Chicago’s foster care system. As her eighteenth birthday approaches, she now eagerly anticipates the day she’ll stop running and finally find her place in the world.

That day comes when she meets a young Etharian soldier named Trey Allairis, who has been charged with coming to Earth to find Kricket and transport her to her true home. As danger draws close, he must protect her until she can wield the powers she cannot use on Earth…and he soon realizes that counting a galaxy of stars would be easier than losing this extraordinary girl.

Kyon knows the powerful depths of Kricket’s gifts—gifts he’ll control when he takes her for his tribe and leads the forces that will claim Ethar and destroy his enemies, starting with Trey Allairis. Now, Kricket faces the most difficult choice of her life: whether to wage a battle for survival or a fight for love.

Winner of four 2014 utopYA Awards, including Best Book of the Year and Best Sci-Fi Book of the Year.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

______________________________

Author of Inescapable: The Premonition Series (Volume 1), Intuition: The Premonition Series (Volume 2), Indebted: The Premonition Series (Volume 3) , and Incendiary: The Premonition Series (Volume 4). Currently working on a fifth novel in the Premonition Series entitled Iniquity.

Under Different Stars (Kricket Series Book 1)
Sea of Stars (The Kricket Series Book 2) – (Release date 3/31/15)

The Divided – A Science Fiction Romance short story, which is included in the Take Me To Your Reader: An Otherworld Anthology.

I live in Michigan with my husband and our two sons. My family is very supportive of my writing. When I’m writing, they often bring me the take-out menu so that I can call and order them dinner. They listen patiently when I talk about my characters like they’re real. They rarely roll their eyes when I tell them I’ll only be a second while I finish writing a chapter…and then they take off their coats. They ask me how the story is going when I surface after living for hours in a world of my own making. They have learned to accept my “writing uniform” consisting of a slightly unflattering pink fleece jacket, t-shirt, and black yoga pants. And they smile at my nerdy bookishness whenever I try to explain urban fantasy to them. In short, they get me, so they are perfect and I am blessed. Please visit me at my website: http://www.amyabartol.weebly.com

Happy Release + 5 Star Review : Taz by Andrea Smith – The G-Men Series- Book 4

Posted on 03/31/2015 by shellbellereads

Taz

G Man Series – Book 4

By Andrea Smith

Release Date: March 31, 2015

Buy: Amazon

Synopsis

Taz:

My life is finally perfect. My dreams have all come true. I’m where I want to be with the bureau; having the career I’ve been planning since I did my stint in the military. I’m married to the one and only woman I’ve ever loved; my heart beats for her alone. Together we’ve made beautiful babies that I adore. I’m thirty-three years old and I’m complete.

Then one day, it all changes. Slate recruits me for a temporary assignment that is underneath the radar for a reason. The bureau hasn’t sanctioned it as a priority, but Slate feels it is because of who is involved: Sue Ellen Reynard. Yeah, remember her?

Lindsey:

Our lives were perfect. Taz and I had everything we’d ever hoped for: family, careers and an everlasting devotion to one another. Suddenly nothing is the same. In a single moment, my biggest fear is realized by one phone call from Slate: an ‘agent is missing’.

My agent; my Taz . . .

This is just the beginning of our long journey. Will things ever be the same again?

Buy: Amazon

Excerpt

As soon as the nurse left, I had another visitor.

My wife.

Lindsey.

I hadn’t seen her since the day she’d left in tears and my alleged younger sister had chewed my ass out for my boorish behavior.

“Hey,” I said softly, giving her a smile. Hell, if I could choose only one thing from my past to resurface in my memory it would be anything or everything having to do with her. She was beautiful and it wasn’t hard to see why I’d been drawn to her.

“Trace,” she said, coming over to take a seat in the chair closest to my hospital bed. “You look better than you did the last time I was here.”

Yeah. Trace is my real name. Learned that a week or two ago.

“It’s been awhile,” I replied. “I’m sorry if I scared you off, Lindsey. I’m trying like hell to remember.”

“It’s nothing you can help,” she replied quickly, giving me a weak smile. “All we can do is work with what we have, I suppose.”

She’d brought some photo albums with her. “I thought maybe we could look at some pictures together, that is, if you feel like it.”

“Sure,” I said, “My doctor recommended doing just that.”

“Okay, well let’s start with this one then,” she said, pulling the one from the bottom. “We’ll take this in chronological order, how’s that?”

And she opened the album and began showing me pictures that had been taken five years prior. She pointed out my mother and father, her best friend Darcy who I recognized from her earlier visit with her husband–and my half-brother, Easton. I saw Slate in many of the pictures, along with his wife who was also Lindsey’s mother. Very pretty. I could picture Slate with her.

“How did we meet?” I asked, and noticed a blush cross over her face.

“Well, I knew you because of Mom and Slate–but we actually didn’t get involved with one another until after they got married. I…uh, I kind of got toasted at their reception. You were nice enough to offer me a ride home, and well…I threw up all over your truck.”

I laughed at this and, for some reason, I loved the fact that given the choice, Lindsey could have provided a much more appealing story of how we met and I wouldn’t have known the difference. Yet she put the truth out there, no matter how disgusting it was. “God, I hope I wasn’t an ass about it.”

She laughed too and it was music to my ears. “Not at all. You were actually very sweet about it. You took me back to your place, put me in the shower, gave me some of your clean clothes to wear, insisted I brush my teeth and gargle, and then put me to bed.”

Michel’s Review

Taz is the latest release in the G-Men series by Andrea Smith. I have to say this book took me completely by surprised and rendered me speechless. Andrea did something gutsy, unheard of , and risky. She took this couple to a complete new level. They were already living their HEA. Readers were happy with their story. They were invested in this couple’s journey. This couple built a solid foundation and were living the dream. Then with one stroke of the pen ( or should I say keyboard) Andrea brought their world crumbling down. It was like a tornado whooshing through their life and leaving despair and devastation. The only thing they had to hang onto was the solid foundation they had worked so diligently to build.

The book starts out with Taz going about his normal day. He is reveling in the family he and Lindsey have created. He adores his wife and loves his children. Life is good until he gets one phone call. A phone call that makes him meet Slate for a beer. One sip of beer and his life is changed. He is recruited for a sensitive mission because of his background, his expertise, and the person the FBI is hunting. It will be the beginning of the storm that will tear his life apart. It could ruin his relationship with Lindsey and destroy his family.

Without saying too much more and giving a ton of spoilers away I will say this. Taz said he would of never taken this mission if he knew what was going to happen to his life. He would of walked away. Hindsight is definitely not conducive in this situation. The moment he took this mission the reader had a sense that something was going to go very wrong.

The emotional trauma that all the characters go through is devastating. The destruction of Taz and Lindsey’s life broke my heart. Andrea had the guts to break these very strong people. But they reared their heads and proved to her that they were stronger than what she originally created. They were not going to let her take away their HEA. Instead they redefined the meaning and made it more. They rebuilt their love, reassembled their life, and made their own destiny.

I have to commend Andrea for the bold writing. It takes a talented author to pull this off. I was truly amazed.

I highly recommend Taz by Andrea Smith. Although it is part of the G-Men series, I think a reader new to this series could easily pick this book up and become as involved in the story as the seasoned reader of this series.

________________________________________

G- Men The Series

Box Set

Buy: Amazon

_____________________________________

About Andrea Smith

I was born and raised in southern Ohio, and with the exception of a brief stint in Dallas, TX, have been an Ohioan most of my life. My dream has always been to write a novel, and back in the early eighties I tried to do just that, having been influenced by authors such as Kathleen Woodiwiss, Johanna Lindsey, Rosemary Rogers and Laurie McBain. I remember writing to all of them through their listed publishers, and the only response I received was from Johanna Lindsey (who lived in Hawaii at the time.

Ms. Lindsey advised me to continue with my dream; and to submit to various publishers again and again. Of course, at that time, publishing e-books yourself was not on the horizon; there were vanity publishing houses of course, but she advised me to avoid those.

So my dream was put on the back-burner for more than 25 years until June of 2012 when suddenly I no longer had a reason not to write a novel. My sons were grown; I found myself without a career (blessedly) and the creative juices flowed once again.

I finished my first novel, “Maybe Baby” in September of 2012; the next two books in the “Baby Series” titled “Baby Love” and “Be My Baby” were published in early 2013. I learned a lot in my first endeavor with self-publishing. I’ve made so many friends as a result that it is over-whelming.

In the spring of 2013, I had an idea for a different type of Alpha, and wrote Book #1 of the “G-Man” Series, titled “Diamond Girl.” This book was well-received, and I followed it with Book #2, “Love Plus One.” These are stand-alone books.

I am finally doing what I love and I sincerely appreciate the wonderful readers who provide feedback and take the time to comment. I hope that with each book, my writing has grown and improved as I strive to publish quality fiction..

Stalk Her: Facebook | Twitter | Amazon | Goodreads

GIVEAWAY
$50 Amazon Gift Card
Taz Signed Paperback (international)

Happy Release + 5 Star Review + Giveaway: It’s Always Been You by Jessica Scott

Posted on 03/31/2015 by shellbellereads

It’s Always Been You

Coming Home Series – Book 5

By Jessica Scott

Now Available in Mass Market Paperback

Synopsis

“Jessica Scott is an exciting new voice in romantic fiction who bursts upon the scene with an unputdownable debut novel!”
–Robyn Carr, New York Times bestselling author on Because of You

She plays by the rules . . .

Captain Ben Teague is many things: a tough soldier, a loyal friend, and a bona fide smart-ass. He doesn’t have much tolerance for BS, which is why he’s mad as hell when a trusted colleague and mentor is brought up on charges that can’t possibly be true. He’s even more frustrated with by-the-book lawyer Major Olivia Hale. But there’s something simmering beneath her icy reserve–and Ben just can’t resist turning up the heat . . .

. . . and he’s determined to break them

The only thing riskier than mixing business with pleasure is enjoying it . . . and Olivia can’t resist locking horns–and lips–with Ben. He’s got more compassion in his little finger than any commander she’s ever met, a fact that makes him a better leader than he realizes. But when the case that brought them together awakens demons from Olivia’s past, she will have to choose between following orders–or her heart . . .

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes

Paperback: Amazon / B & N / Books A Million

Excerpt

“You don’t like being in command, do you, Ben?” she whispered. The air was thick between them, heavy with unsaid things.

He shook his head. “It’s too much responsibility for other people’s problems. I’m not qualified to judge someone else’s screw ups,” he said.

He shifted so he could face her, his body angled toward hers. A shadow partially concealed his face, casting it in hard lines and a dozen shades of grey.

“You’re not supposed to be perfect to be a leader,” she whispered. Her voice cracked, hung on the tension in her neck from sitting a little too close.

Silence filled the space between them. Heavy and warm and crackling with latent energy.

He licked his bottom lip, his gaze locked with hers. “I don’t want to be either,” he said. His voice was a husky whisper filled with need.

Her breath caught in her throat. A hesitant movement. A breath closer. This was monumentally stupid. Infinitely so.

And yet she parted her lips, her entire body trembling in anticipation of the faintest touch of his. He was there, just there. A breath separated them. Nothing more.

It was a hesitant kiss. A light, teasing brush of his top lip against hers. Her breath mingled with his, threading between them and urging her closer. She met his eyes, waiting. Wanting. Needing more of this deeply sensual man who made her feel so many writhing, hungry things.

It was forever before either of them moved. Her breath was locked in her throat. Then she felt it. His palm slid over her cheek, his fingers rough on her skin. Warmth penetrated her, wound its way over the surface to slide beneath her skin and stroke something long dormant to life.

Need. It was need that made her lean toward him. Need that made her part her lips and trace his mouth with her tongue. Need that made her nip his bottom lip and thread her fingers in the short hair on the back of his neck.

Need that made her gasp in pleasure as his tongue slid against hers, twining in that sensuous dance that brought her blood to life. Heat pounded between her thighs, an aching, pulsing want that scorched her like nothing she’d ever felt.

She gave herself over to the sensation, to the pleasure of his touch. Knowing it was a mistake and far past caring as her breath finally released, mixing with the heated strokes of his tongue.

She eased back after a moment, before she did something monumentally stupid, like crawling into his lap in broad daylight.

“We really should talk about those legal packets,” she said against his mouth.

His smile was unexpected. “Wow, you are hell on a man’s ego,” he said.

The laugh caught her off guard and she rested her forehead against his as she struggled to regain her composure. Something opened against her heart, something unexpected and warm.

Something complicated.

For a brief moment, it was tempting to throw caution to the curb, to nuzzle his mouth with hers, to absorb his taste andwarmth.

And then reality kicked in.

“We really should head back. We’ve got that meeting in two hours,” she said.

He smiled. “Always responsible and focused.”

He brushed his thumb over her lip as he said it. This was something nice.

Unexpected.

It was going to be an interesting legal briefing, that was for damn sure.

Michel’s Review

I cannot praise Jessica Scott’s Coming Home series enough. I have raved about each book in this series. Jessica Scott combines military careers, civilian life, people with very real problems, and trying to build happy lives in situations that are very hard for those they love. This series has brought me to tears, opened my eyes to the problems the modern army faces, made me see a soldier as an individual person, and has delivered very real relationships. Each and every story is emotional. Each book addresses difficult situations that affect these courageous men and women. In the end, there is always the underlying message of hope and true love.

It’s Always Been You is Captain Ben Teague’s story. He is a stand up guy, always has your back, and has an understanding of human nature. He is a strong leader and recognizes each and every soldier under his command as an individual.

This story begins where All For You left off. The battalion has cleaned house and new commands are assigned. The objective is to clean up their newly assigned companies. Captain Ben Teague does not want the new Bandit Company he has been assigned to. He does not want to be a commander.

Overseeing the clean up is Major Olivia Hale, a lawyer whose sole purpose is to make sure this happens. Captain Teague is on her radar. This reluctant leader seems to want to protect his men rather than the true victims. His casual regard for the rules, his soft heart, and closed lip are not helping matters. One of his men, Escoberra, is under suspect for abuse of his child. She wants his family to be safe . Due to her past, her views, opinions, and drive are very influential in her actions. After she meets Ben, she will learn everything is not as black and white as they seem.

Ben and Olivia are drawn to one another even though they are on opposing sides of the fence. Both will have to learn from the other. Both will have to open their minds and hearts to the new dilemma’s this new Company faces. They will have to learn to combine their working relationship with their personal relationship. They will have to learn how to deal with mental health issues and legal issues their battelian will face. But together they will both become stronger individuals. They will learn from each other and they will teach each other very different things about life.

I loved Ben and Olivia’s relationship. It was tough, mature, compassionate, heart wrenching, and empowering.

It’s Always Been You by Jessica Scott is another powerful book in the Coming Home series. It can be read as a stand alone or in series order.

The Coming Home Series

Because Of You

From the war-torn streets of Baghdad to the bittersweet comforts of the home front, two wounded hearts navigate the battlefield of coming home from war in this explosive eBook original from newcomer Jessica Scott.

Keeping his men alive is all that matters to Sergeant First Class Shane Garrison. But meeting Jen St. James the night before his latest deployment makes Shane wonder if there’s more to life than war. He leaves for Iraq remembering a single kiss with a woman he’ll never see again- until a near fatal attack lands him back at home and in her care. Jen has survived her own brush with death and endured its scars. And yet there’s a fire in Shane that makes Jen forget all about her past. He may be her patient, but when this warrior looks her in the eyes, she feels – for the first time in a long time – like a woman. Shane is too proud to ask for help, but for Jen, caring for him is more than a duty -it’s a need. And as Jen guides Shane through the fires of healing, she finds something she never expected – her deepest desire.

Anything For You

From the USA Today Bestselling author of Because of You comes an all new Coming Home short story.

Sergeant First Class Shane Garrison has spent a year recovering from his combat injuries. A year spent in the arms of the woman of his dreams. But loving Jen comes with a price: every time he touches her, he faces the uncertain fear that loving her might mean losing her forever.

Jen is a breast cancer survivor and with Shane, she’s found a man who loves her despite her scars. But her scars may be too much for their love to survive.

As their love grows, so does the risk to Jen’s life. And Shane must make the toughest decision any man can make to save the woman he loves.

Until There Was You

From the author of Because of You comes an all-new contemporary eBook romance. He plays by the rules, she’s not afraid to break them. Now these two strong-willed Army captains will prove that opposites attract . . .

A by-the-book captain with a West Point background, Captain Evan Loehr refuses to mix business with pleasure–except for an unguarded instance years ago when he succumbed to the deep sensuality of redheaded beauty Claire Montoya. From that moment on, though, Evan has been at odds with her, through two deployments to Iraq and back again. But when he is asked to train a team prepping for combat alongside Claire, battle-worn Evan is in for the fight of his life.

Strong, gutsy, and loyal, Captain Claire Montoya has worked hard to earn the rank on her chest. In Evan, Claire sees a rigid officer who puts the rules before everything else–including his people. When the mission forces them together, Claire soon discovers that there is more to Evan than meets the eye. He’s more than the rank on his chest; he’s a man with dark secrets and deep longings. For all their differences, Evan and Claire share two crucial passions: their country and each other.

I’ll Be Home For Christmas

There’s nothing in the world Army Sergeant Vic Carponti loves more than his wife and his country. Smart-mouthed and easy tempered, he takes everything as a joke . . . except his promise to come home to his wife, Nicole, for Christmas. As he prepares to leave for his latest deployment into Iraq, Vic will do everything he can to shield his beautiful, supportive wife from the realities of war . . . and from his own darkest fears.

As a career army wife, Nicole Carponti knows just what to expect from her husband’s tour of duty: loneliness, relentless worry, and a seemingly endless countdown until the moment Vic walks through the door again. But when the unthinkable happens, Nicole and Vic’s bond is tested like never before and changes everything they believe to be true about the power of love and the simple beauty of being home for the holidays.

Back To You

He’s in for the fight of his life . . .

Army captain Trent Davila loved his wife, Laura, and their two beautiful children. But when he almost lost his life in combat, something inside him died. He couldn’t explain the emptiness he felt or bridge the growing distance between him and his family-so he deployed again. And again. And again…until his marriage reached its breaking point. Now, with everything on the line, Trent has one last chance to prove to his wife that he can be the man she needs …if she’ll have him

. . . to win back his only love.

Laura is blindsided when Trent returns home. Time and again, he chose his men over his family, and she’s just beginning to put the pieces of her shattered heart back together. But when Trent faces a court martial on false charges, only Laura can save him. What begins as an act of kindness to protect his career inflames a desire she thought long buried-and a love that won’t be denied. But can she trust that this time he’s back to stay?

Amazon/ Barnes and Noble / ITunes

All For You

Can a battle-scarred warrior . . .

Stay sober. Get deployed. Lead his platoon. Those are the only things that matter to Sergeant First Class Reza Iaconelli. What he wants is for everyone to stay out of his way; what he gets is Captain Emily Lindberg telling him how to deal with his men. Fort Hood’s newest shrink is smart as a whip and sexy as hell. She’s also full of questions-about the army, its soldiers, and the agony etched on Reza’s body and soul.

. . . open his heart to love?

Emily has devoted her life to giving soldiers the care they need-and deserve. Little does she know that means facing down the fierce wall of muscle that is Sergeant Iaconelli like it’s just another day at the office. When Reza agrees to help her understand what makes a soldier tick, she’s thrilled. Too bad it doesn’t help her unravel the sexy warrior in front of her who stokes her desire and touches a part of her she thought long dead. He’s the man who thinks combat is the only escape from the demons that haunt him. The man who needs her most of all . . .

It’s Always Been You

She plays by the rules . . .

. . . and he’s determined to break them

All I Want For Christmas

From USA Today Bestselling author Jessica Scott comes an all new novella about a woman who came back from war changed and the man who loves her enough not to let her go.

All Major Patrick MacLean wanted was Christmas with the woman and child who were his family in everything but name. But Captain Samantha Egan has come back from the war a different woman than the one who left – and she doesn’t know if she can love him anymore.

But neither of them counted on the determination of a little girl they both call daughter and if Natalie has her wish, her parents may have no idea what’s coming for them. It’s going to take Christmas miracle to bring these two wounded warriors back from the edge of a broken heart.

This story has been featured in Home For Christmas: A Holiday Duet with JoAnn Ross.

About Jessica Scott

USA Today Bestselling author Jessica Scott is a career army officer, mother of two daughters, three cats and three dogs, wife to a career NCO and wrangler of all things stuffed and fluffy. She is a terrible cook and even worse housekeeper, but she’s a pretty good shot with her assigned weapon and someone liked some of the stuff she wrote. Somehow, her children are pretty well adjusted and her husband still loves her, despite burned water and a messy house.

She’s also written for the New York Times At War Blog, PBS Point of View Regarding War, and IAVA. She deployed to Iraq in 2009 as part of OIF/New Dawn and has had the honor of serving as a company commander at Fort Hood, Texas twice.

Most recently, she’s been featured as one of Esquire Magazine’s Americans of the Year for 2012. Learn More at http://www.jessicascott.net

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

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Happy Release + Review: Captive by Brighton Walsh- Captive Series – Book 1

Posted on 03/25/2015 by shellbellereads

Captive

By Brighton Walsh

Synopsis

He’s the most dangerous man she’s ever met…and she’s falling in love with him.

Madison Frost is desperate to escape her life. Daughter of a prominent businessman, she has everything a girl could ask for. Except for a family who’s present in her life, and anyone to talk to outside the four walls of the prison she calls home. Madison dreams of one day leaving her life behind. She never thought being kidnapped is how it would happen.

Now she’s being held captive by a man who’s as frightening as he is sinfully gorgeous. Enormous, muscular, and filled with secrets, the man they call Ghost is an enigmatic mercenary, and Madison is trapped with him. She doesn’t know who hired him or why, but the more time she spends at his mercy, the more she realizes he’s not what he seems. Beneath his rough exterior lies an unexpected gentleness and a heart as broken and battered as her own.

But as Madison lets down her walls, Ghost holds tight to his, hiding secrets that could destroy everything.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes / Kobo

Michel’s Review

Captive by Brighton Walsh is the perfect title for this book. This book held me Captive from the very first paragraph until the very last word. It was more than your typical Stockholm Syndrome type of book. It was an intense and unusual type of kidnapping. The captor and captive learned so many things about their lives. They learned that there was more to who and what they were. They also learned they had the power to change. They also learned what real love really meant. At the same time, they were both in precarious situation that neither had complete control of. The person pulling the strings had more on his agenda than what was originally planned.

Madison Frost may seem like the typical privileged girl on the surface but beneath the facade is a very insecure unhappy girl. She may have every frivolity that money can buy. She may be exceptionally smart and well educated. She may come across as aloof and high browed. She is far form what she appears. She has been grossly neglected by her family. She has been raised in a disturbing environment. She has had to witness her mother’s substance and alcohol abuse. She has become a caretaker. She is not your typical twenty year old college student. Life is far from the carefree attitude people her age are entitled to having. She is miserable. She lacks self confidence and feels unloveable.

When Madison is abruptly kidnapped after class, her life now takes a new turn. She is frightened for herself, worried about her mother, and praying for once that her parents will put her first. She knows she is in a very dangerous situation and that she has to find her inner strength to survive.

Ghost was hired to kidnap Madison Frost. He is an expert in his line of work. He researches his victims. He leaves no room for error. All of his research could of never prepared him for Madison Frost. She is everything that is not included in his intel. Her fortitude, strength, and intelligence has him floored. Her revelations about her life have him astounded. This girl is much more valuable than the price put on her head. He will do everything in his power to make sure she comes out of this situation without one single blemish. She is the only one that matters in this game.

The job has spiraled out of control. The person that hired him has changed the game plan. The unknown is making Ghost very nervous about the outcome. He is a seasoned professional, he is going to make a new play and prays that Madison will come out of this unscathed.

After all is said and done, both Madison and Ghost will be forever changed. Their fleeting moments together will affect how they pursue their own futures. Neither one has come out of the situation without scars. It will be up to each of them how they chose to heal.

Captive was an intense story. There was an intensity to it on all levels. The suspense from the kidnapping, the mystery of who is behind the kidnapping, the undeniable chemistry between Ghost and Madison, the psychological results of the kidnapping, and finally the practical and intelligent resolutions in this story blew me away. I was held Captive.

Brighton Walsh is definitely going on my must read author list. Her writing has everything I look for in a story. Her character development, intricate plots, and delivery of the story is well executed.

I am looking forward to the next book in the Captive Series. It will feature Ghost’s brother Riley. Exposed will release on July 21, 2015. Each book can be read as a stand alone novel.

Read Captive… it will not disappoint.

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Brighton Walsh spent nearly a decade as a professional photographer before deciding to take her storytelling in a different direction and reconnect with writing. She lives in the Midwest with her husband and two children.