Cover Reveal + #Hashtag Series Review : #Player by Cambria Hebert – #Hashtag Series – Book 3

Posted on 02/16/2015 by shellbellereads

# Player

#Hashtag Series – Book 3

Release Date: March 9 , 2015

By Cambria Hebert

Synopsis

Players gotta play.

Hate is like a poison. It contaminates everything.

So does doubt.

Even though I deny what I overheard, even though I insist it isn’t true, the seed of doubt has been planted. I can’t help but be tormented with the endless what-if’s that have taken over our lives.

Romeo and I were happy in love. The future stretched before us brighter than any star in the darkest sky. Now everything is broken. Literally broken. Romeo’s entire career is at stake, my entire future is threatened… and my past?

It’s coming back to haunt me.

To haunt us.

Romeo says we’re in this together and right now the only sure thing is us. But how far can a love so new be pushed? The lengths we will have to go to save each other puts everything at risk.

Romeo is a #player but how much of the game can one person play?

The Hashtag Series

# Nerd – Book 1

Two people from completely different worlds are about to be thrown together…

In more ways than one.

She wants to keep her scholarship. He wants to stay on the team. An awkward alliance doesn’t even begin to cover Rimmel and Romeo’s relationship.

But that’s about to change.

It starts with a dare. An initiation. A challenge.

Quickly, it turns into more. But when you’re a victim of your status, there is no room for anything real. The rules are clear and simple.

Stick to your circle.

And never fall in love with anyone on the outside.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Michel’s Review

I am a huge fan of Cambria Hebert’s books. Each and every book has kept me glued to the pages. Her books always have a special blend of genres with characters that are larger than life.

I wasn’t sure what to expect with the #Hashtag series. The synopsis seemed different from what we have come to expect from Cambria’s books. I thought that this was going to be more of a new adult romance that focused on college campus life (which I love). I was not expecting some romantic suspense to be added to the mix. I wasn’t expecting Romeo. Romeo has stolen my heart! Talk about a swoon worthy book boyfriend, Romeo has it in spades!

Rimmel is more than your average #Nerd. She has come to Alpha University not only to gain an education but also to escape her past in Florida. She keeps to herself, stays ahead of her assignments, and lives for her volunteer work at the animal shelter. She has trouble socializing with her fellow students. The only place she feels free to be herself is with her furry four legged friends. But that is about to change when she is forced to tutor the star quarterback and notorious player, Romeo. She is dreading dealing with the campus manwhore but in order to keep her scholarship she has to deal with it.

At first the tutoring sessions start out as expected. Romeo is more interested in his conquests and football. Rimmel is counting the minutes for each tutoring session to end. These two unlikely people are forced to spend time with one another. In the end they will both discover that they may just have more in common than they thought. The will discover that they both have many layers. They will discover love for the first time.

Meanwhile throughout the book Romeo is rushing for the top Fraternity on campus. His commitment to rushing will take him to an all time low. He will be challenged to do things that he has always considered wrong. When the final challenge crosses the line and threatens to hurt Rimmel he will have choices to make.

Not only is Romeo having to chose between status, image, and his quest to join the fraternity, he has unknowingly made a very lethal enemy.

The opening for the #Hashtag series is thrilling. The journey that Romeo and Rimmel make in this semester is life changing for them both. The love they have found for one another is unexpected. Can they hang onto their love with all the expectations of sports, social status, academics, and their different backgrounds? Will Romeo’s enemy destroy everything they both hold dear? We will find out in #Hater.

#Hater – Book 2

The effect of that look lingered, like an unspoken promise, long after it was gone.

Becoming a couple – becoming the other half of a campus celebrity wasn’t easy. I let down walls guarding my heart and he looked past my glasses and accident prone tendencies. Romeo and I are an unlikely match, a #nerd and a jock. But we made it.

And we’re happy.

Zach doesn’t want us to be happy. He wants Romeo to pay for getting him kicked out of Omega and for the night he spent in jail. He’s going to use anything and everything he can to get his revenge. Including me.

As the weather on campus grows cold and the days become dark, revenge becomes the center of someone’s life and the happiness Romeo and I worked so hard for is threatened.

I can’t help but worry that our love is going to be overshadowed by hate.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Michel’s Review

Rimmel and Romeo are settling into their relationship. Rimmel is becoming more confident and comfortable with herself. Romeo is moving on beyond what his social status requires.

Rimmel and Romeo are the couple that has become campus celebrities. Their every move is watched, tweeted,and posted by all. They are the stars that shine brightly.

Everything seems to be going well for them. Their relationship is growing. Romeo’s family is accepting Rimmel. Rimmel is building friendships and other relationships outside of the animal shelter. There is one thing that casts a dark shadow on their happiness.

Zach about ruined their relationship in #Nerd. He forced Romeo to quit rushing for the Omega Fraternity. He underestimated Romeo’s wits and tenacity. He underestimated Romeo’s power. Romeo has destroyed Zach’s status as the president of Omega. His influence has turned his brothers against him. Now he is going to destroy Romeo and Rimmel. He is out for blood.

As Zach’s vendetta escalates to the point of terror, Romeo and Rimmel will have other things coming at them from other parts of their lives. Both are enough to tear them apart and ruin their futures. Will they be able to overcome these adversities?

One moment of terror will destroy their hope for the future. It looks like Zach has had his final revenge that will destroy the rest of their lives. How can they overcome this? To make matters worse, Rimmel’s past is coming to haunt her. Secrets are being revealed that she may never be able to overcome.

What happens next? Cliffhanger! I cannot wait to get my hands on #Player, book 3, on March 9, 2015.

#Hater was consuming. I could not put this book down. I loved how Romeo handled everything. I loved how he brought out the best in Rimmel and gave her courage to be herself. I loved that Rimmel saw Romeo as more than a jock.

This couple will steal your heart!

Read the #Hashtag Series by Cambria Hebert!

Author Bio:

Cambria Hebert is a bestselling novelist of more than twenty books. She went to college for a bachelor’s degree, couldn’t pick a major, and ended up with a degree in cosmetology. So rest assured her characters will always have good hair. She currently resides in North Carolina with her children (human and furry) and her husband, who is a United States Marine.

Besides writing, Cambria loves a caramel latte, staying up late, sleeping in, and watching movies. She considers math human torture and has an irrational fear of chickens (yes, chickens). You can often find her running on the treadmill (she’d rather be eating a donut), painting her toenails (because she bites her fingernails), or walking her chorkie (the real boss of the house).

Cambria has written within the young adult and new adult genres, penning many paranormal and contemporary titles. Her favorite genre to read and write is romantic suspense. A few of her most recognized titles are: Text, Torch, Tryst, Masquerade, and Recalled.

Cambria Hebert owns and operates Cambria Hebert Books, LLC.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Happy Release + 5 Star Review + Giveaway: Controlling Her Pleasure by Lili Valente- Under His Command Series – Book 1

Posted on 02/16/2015 by shellbellereads

Controlling Her Pleasure

Book 1

By Lili Valente

Synopsis

Blake Roberts has everything he’s ever wanted—fame, money, and ownership of the hottest chain of tattoo parlors in the country. But he’s haunted by his first love, the matching tattoo they share a constant reminder of who he was before he learned how to control his emotions, his desire, and a woman’s pleasure.

He needs to purge her from his heart, and he’ll do whatever it takes to be free.

Erin Perry’s been burned by love and she’s not ready to put her body under a man’s control, let alone her heart. But then Blake shows up, the only man she ever truly loved. Blake is ruthlessly handsome, and seething commanding energy that has her aching to submit.

To be pleasured, tamed, owned, and put under His control.

Warning: This book features a big, tattooed, Dominant alpha male—give him your trust and he’ll command your pleasure. All. Night. Long. Cliffhanger Alert: This steamy read ends in a cliffhanger. If you don’t like being teased, steer clear. The entire Under His Command series, Erin and Blake’s complete love story, will publish in February and March of 2015.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Coming Soon

Commanding Her Trust – Book 2

March 2, 2015

Blake Roberts is falling hard for his old flame and won’t stop until Erin is his. He doesn’t simply want her body; he wants her submission, her abandon, and the wounded heart she’s trying so hard to hide.

He wants all of her and he’s pulling out all the stops–in the bedroom and out–until she surrenders.

For Erin, what started as a charade has become all too real. She’s never experienced anything like the savage bliss she’s discovered in Blake’s arms. He tests her, dominates her, and if she doesn’t gain her freedom, soon he’ll own her–body and soul.

She has to escape even if running from Blake feels like running from the only home she’s ever known.

Claiming Her Heart – Book 3

March 16, 2015

Blake has what he thought he wanted–Erin’s submission, her trust, and the woman he loves back in his bed. But with her submission comes protection of her secrets. Erin is in trouble and an innocent life hangs in the balance.

Blake knows he can help her break free of the past, but he doesn’t know if a man like himself belongs in her future.

How can he swear to protect her from danger when he has a dark side of his own?

Tracey’s Review

You’ll need an extra set of panties and a fan as you read Controlling Her Pleasure, the first book in the Under His Command series by Lili Valente, a new voice in erotic romance. This book is a novella, but, believe me, it is NOT short on the sizzle. The spark between tattoo artist and Dom Blake Roberts and Erin ‘Angel’ Simmons practically leaps off the page. When these two are together, whether as teens exploring their first love, or, later, as two halves of a very sexy whole, the heat is absolutely palpable.

Controlling Her Pleasure is a great introduction to this new series, and had me from the first page. Blake is full of smolder, all man, and not afraid to show it. And Erin, for all of her sass and bravado, is more than happy to find herself under his spell. Their chemistry had me speeding through this read, and I cannot wait for the next book to see what comes next in their adventure.

I’ve happily added Lili to my list of hot authors, and give this book 5+ steamy sexy stars.

About Author

Lili Valente has slept under the stars in Greece, eaten dinner at midnight with French men who couldn’t be trusted to keep their mouths on their food, and walked alone through Munich’s red light district after dark and lived to tell the tale.

These days you can find her writing in a tent beside the sea, drinking coconut water and thinking delightfully dirty thoughts.

Lili loves to hear from her readers. You can reach her via email at lili.valente.romance@gmail.com

Website ~ Facebook ~ Goodreads

Giveaway

$10 Amazon Gift Card

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Happy Release + Review: A Desperate Man Vol. 2 by Ella Frank and Brooke Blaine

Posted on 02/16/2015 by shellbellereads

A Desperate Man: Volume 2

Ella Frank Brooke Blaine

Illusions — we all create them.

For some it’s to project an impressive image to a prospective employer; for others it’s to attract the eye of another.

My illusion is a bit more…complicated.

Years in the making, my secret has the potential to bite me in the ass. And not in the way I typically enjoy.

Sex.

As women, we’re judged for reveling in the same carnal pleasures that men do, but I’ve never been shy about my voracious appetite.

Now, I’m under no illusions that I’ll find love with any of my one night stands.

After all, I have one rule — no repeats — but it’s a rule that’s becoming harder to follow since Evan James came back into my life.

Did I say back into my life?

My name is Reagan Spencer, and you may think you know me, but…

How well do we really know anyone?

Excerpts

“Walk with me?” Evan asked.

She gave him a small smile and nodded. “Sure.”

Pushing off the rail, she fell in step with him as they walked along the river’s

edge.

“I’d be scared of what you’d see if you looked at me through your lens,” he

admitted.

“You shouldn’t.”

Evan scoffed and ran his fingers through his hair. “I can’t imagine there’s much

good there…”

“You’d be surprised at what I see.”

That comment had him coming to a standstill. “Would I?”

“Yes.”

“Okay,” he said, and started walking again. “Tell me what you see.”

Reagan slid her thumbs down the straps of her camera and cocked her head,

looking him over.

“I see a successful man. One who dresses well, even on a Saturday morning. So

that would indicate to me that he takes pride in his appearance. Maybe cares about what

others think also. The fact that you were leaving a therapist’s office makes me think

you’re a man with some issues, but also a man who is willing to work through them.

Again, that comes back to pride. You seem to be able to swallow yours when need be.”

Evan’s brow furrowed, but he said nothing as she continued.

“You also have a certain…air about you. It’s in the way you move. You’re

confident, but at the same time, when you flash that smile, the arrogance disappears, and

you look like the boy you used to be.”

The smile under discussion appeared, and Evan asked, “How do you know what

kind of boy I used to be?”

“Hey? This is my story,” Reagan reminded him before he continued asking

questions she wasn’t willing to answer.

“Oh, my apologies, I somehow thought it involved me.”

“It does, but you’re on the outside listening, so shh. You asked, remember?”

With a serious face, he nodded. “You would be right.”

“Okay. Now I lost my train of thought.”

Evan chuckled. “Well, it’s probably for the best that you didn’t mention any of

my unappealing attributes.”

“Speaking of…” she said, and turned to walk backward, facing him. “How did the therapy session go today?”

“Really great. There was an orgy, a sampling of sex toys, and a dessert buffet

afterward. Very satisfying.”

“Evan…”

He blew out a breath and rubbed the back of his neck. “It was fine. It’s always

fine. Today, Dr. Glover brought up behavior triggers, and it helped to figure out where

this whole mess started.”

Curious, she asked, “And where was that?”

“It wasn’t any one event. It was the high off the power I got from my job, it was

being in an unhealthy relationship…my grandparents passing…the worry about

following in my parents’ footsteps. The further things spiraled out of my control, the

more I craved that control in other parts of my life. Well, a very specific part of my life.”

He glanced over at her before continuing. “Obviously that’s the condensed version, but…I think it helps. Knowing those things and hopefully being able to
stop them in the future.”

But the urge isn’t gone?”

The look in his eyes was haunted as he replied, “No. No, it isn’t gone.”

Tracey’s Review

Although their first meeting was anything but, Evan James and Reagan Spencer have moved beyond their mutual attraction to work together in a professional capacity. And, while they try to keep it to business as usual, their desire for each other is making it difficult to say no to each other.

In this second volume of A Desperate Man, Ella Frank and Brooke Blaine really flesh out the story so that more is revealed about Reagan’s and Evan’s past, and more insight is given, especially about Reagan. While I found the first book to be a hot introduction to Evan’s and Reagan’s relationship, I really enjoyed this book, because the characters became more real. Without giving any spoilers, I will say that having glimpses into the past really add to understanding why Reagan feels so conflicted about her current involvement with Evan. And, while Volume 1 was hot, this book is even hotter, but in a less visceral and much more erotic way. I wasn’t sure that I liked Evan at all in the first book, but here, in Book 2, he won my heart. The characters relate to each other more intimately, and there is more playfulness and a sense of being comfortable here, right up to the point where it isn’t. And that is where the wonderful and talented authors leave us, as key players become aware that things, and people, are not what they seem.

I sped through this short but extremely satisfying installment, and cannot wait for the conclusion to Evan’s and Reagan’s story.

__________________________________________________________________

About the Authors

Brooke Blaine

You could say Brooke Blaine was a book-a-holic from the time she knew how to read; she used to tell her mother that curling up with one at 4 a.m. before elementary school was her ‘quiet time.’ Not much has changed except for the espresso I.V. pump she now carries around and the size of her onesie pajamas.

Her first solo novel, a romantic comedy, is due out in early 2015, but first, she thought she’d write a raunchy story with her best friend that would scar her conservative southern family for life.

If you’d like to get in touch with her, she’s easy to find – just keep an ear out for the Rick Astley ringtone that’s dominated her cell phone for ten years.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Ella Frank

Ella Frank is a #1 Amazon Bestselling Author. She writes both contemporary and erotic fiction and is best known for her Exquisite Series, and Temptation Series.

The minute she began her love affair with reading, she became and avid supporter of the romance genre and has never looked back.

Ella is Australian born and bred but currently resides in Houston, Texas with her husband.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Buy Links for A Desperate Man: Volume 1

Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes / Kobo

Release Blitz + 5 Star Review + Giveaway: Rebel by Callie Hart – Dead Man’s Ink Series – Book 1

Posted on 02/12/2015 by shellbellereads

Rebel

Dead Man’s Ink Series

By Callie Hart

Release Date:February 9, 2015

Synopsis

Rebel and Sophia’s story.

The first of a three part series. This novel contains a small snippet which has already been released in the Owned: An Alpha Anthology, however it is followed by a full story installment.

Sophia

Sometimes, you don’t mean to become another person. Sometimes the choice is made for you, and pretending is the only thing that keeps you going. When Alexis Romera is taken and her kidnappers find her fake ID in her purse, she must become Sophia in order to keep her family safe. Revealing her real identity to the man she’s sold to would be easy enough, but can she trust him? Hell bent on revenging the murder of his uncle, Rebel doesn’t seem all that interested in playing things safe.

In fact, nothing about the secretive, dark and brooding MC president seems safe at all.

Rebel

What do you do when the man who raised you is murdered, and the only witness is kidnapped girl who’s being sold as a sex slave? You buy her, of course. As president to the most powerful motorcycle club in America, Rebel isn’t lacking in power. There are strings the man can pull, and entire criminal organisations and corporate businesses alike would fall to their knees. However, along with such power comes intense interest. The DEA have their eye fixed solely on the MC…and they’re just waiting for Rebel to trip up.

Getting Sophia to testify is the only way to bring the Los Oscuros cartel down. The beautiful, dark haired, dark eyed woman is belligerent and uncooperative and unlikely to bend to his will, but Rebel has a few tricks up his sleeve to make her compliant–he’ll charm her until she’s bending over backwards to please him.

Of course, falling for her might cause a few hiccups along the way…

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Excerpt

“You gonna sit down or what?”

I sit down. Arguing with him would be futile. We sit there, side by side, staring off down the arrow-straight road, and for a moment I don’t hate him. He pulls a cell phone out of his pocket and taps something into it, and then he turns to face me, frowning slightly.

“You believe in vengeance?”

“You mean like revenge?”

He shakes his head. “Revenge is a selfish act. Retaliation for something. Vengeance is a different thing altogether. It’s about obtaining justice, usually for someone who can’t claim it for themselves.”

This is an odd line of questioning but I decide I’ll bite. Maybe I wouldn’t if he were being a jerk like he was a couple of hours ago, but that’s not what’s happening. He’s pensive, the live wire that apparently runs through him dulled for the moment. “I don’t know,” I say. “Probably, in that case.”

“What if I simplified the question?

What if I say, do you believe in justice?

“Then, yes, I do believe.”

Michel’s Review

OMG… I loved Rebel by Callie Hart!

From the very first paragraph I was hooked. Rebel starts with an intense beginning that builds to an explosive climax that leaves the reader biting their nails and begging for the next book. This book is intense, violent, explicit, and has the beginnings of a beautiful fierce love.

I know that there are quite a few excellent biker series on the market for readers to chose from. The Widow Makers MC is quite different from most of the series out there. It’s clear from the beginning that this club is more than outlaws defying society. Their membership is unique, they don’t have specific machine requirements, they are adaptable, and the general daily operations is ruled by who they are. Although it would seem they are a bit unstructured in many ways, it is quite the opposite. They have some very deadly alliances. They also have some powerful connections.

When Alexis is taken after witnessing a horrific crime her world is forever changed. She is taken by a gang connected with the Mexican cartel and sold into slavery. Her fake ID is the only thing she has going for her. Her true identity is hidden from her captors. Her captors have threatened retaliation on her family if she talks about anything that has happened to her. She is scared to death. It gets worse when she is sold to the Widow Makers.

The Widow Makers has used their connections to buy Sophia (aka Alexis) from Hector. She witnessed the murder of a very powerful judge. A judge that is related to Rebel, the president of the Widow Makers MC. They need her to testify to bring down Hector and his men. They have declared war.

The Widow Makers will try enlist one of their most dangerous allies, a Columbian Cartel that wants to destroy Hector also. But they have a price. It is a price that the Widow Makers are not sure they want to pay. They will have to make a choice of lying in bed with the devil or pursuing their enemies on their own. They are out gunned and will probably lose their lives.

As this story unfolds so much more happens. In the end the Widow Makers will not know who is friend or foe. Their world will be threatened from every which way. Events will take place that will send the club spiraling in all directions.

This is WAR!

Meanwhile Rebel and Sophia are engaging in a battle of their own. Not only does Rebel want to convince Sophia to testify by offering protection for her and her family, he is also attracted to her as a woman. As the two begin a rocky relationship their world spins out of control. How can Rebel guarantee protection for Sophia when he is about to engage in an all out war. There are too many enemies to kill. There are unknown enemies lurking in the background.

The ending of this book was a major OMG CLIFFHANGER. It was intense! I need the next book!

I was very impressed with Callie Hart’s writing. She built a world that drew the readers into the story from the beginning. She added intensity, action, and mystery while building a romance. I couldn’t put this book down.

Rebel is a 5 Star book!

About Callie Hart

Callie has experienced many changes throughout her life, and gone through many ups and downs that have all worked towards shaping and molding her into the person she is today: fun loving, active, social, and hard working. The only thing that has remained a constant throughout her life is writing. Creating characters who will tear your conscience in two is a favorite pastime of Callie’s. There are few real saints and sinners in her books; more often, the denizens of her stories are all very human. Broken, flawed, and always with the potential for redemption.

Despite the subject matter being markedly hot and heavy in comparison to the stories she wrote in elementary school, there will always be an element of fairytale to her work.

Stalk Her: Website – Facebook – Twitter – Goodreads – Join Callie’s Newsletter

GIVEAWAY
3 Rebel Super Swag packs
1 paperback of Rebel w/ signed bookplate
1 complete eCopy set of the Blood & Roses series
1 ARC of Callie Hart & Lili St. Germain’s upcoming collaboration, Hell’s Kitchen
(to be ready by end of February)
1 MAC “Rebel” lipstick
Gary Taylor Leather Jacket
$20 Amazon/iBooks Gift card
Kindle HD 6

a Rafflecopter giveaway

5 Star Review: Hero By Night by Sara Jane Stone – Independence Falls Series- Book 3

Posted on 02/06/2015 by shellbellereads

Book Three: Independence Falls

January 20, 2015

Synopsis

He was nobody’s hero until he landed in the wrong bed …

Armed with a golden retriever and a concealed weapons permit, Lena Clark is fighting for normal. She served her country, but the experience left her emotionally numb and estranged from her career-military family. Staying in Independence Falls seems like the first step to reclaiming her life until the town playboy stumbles into her bed …

Chad Summers is living his dream—helicopter logging by day and slipping between the sheets with Mrs. Right Now by night. Until his wild nights threaten his day job, leaving Chad with a choice: prove he can settle down or kiss his dream goodbye. But when he ends up in the wrong bed, the one woman in Independence Falls he can’t touch offers a tempting proposition. Chad is ready and willing to give in to the primal desire to make Lena his at night—on one condition. By day, they pretend their relationship is real.

But their connection extends beyond the bedroom, threatening to turn their sham into reality if Chad can prove he’s the hero Lena needs night and day … forever.

Buy: Amazon ~ Barnes & Noble ~ iBooks ~ Google ~ Kobo

Michel’s Review

Lena Clark is a war hero. When she came home from war she was no longer the same person. She suffers from PTSD. Her anxiety levels have caused her to have panic attacks, nightmares, and paranoid tendencies. She can’t stand to be touched by other people. Although she is no longer a soldier, she is still fighting battles on a daily basis. The only thing that has helped control her PTSD is her therapy dog, Hero. She is trying to adjust to civilian life and learn how to tolerate normal every day life. She has moved to Independence Falls to heal and work her way back to real world.

Lena’s good friend offers her an apartment on her family’s property. Lena takes her up on the offer with hopes of staying in Independence and rebuilding her life.

Chad Summer’s is the town player and local bad boy. He is known for his charm and reputation with the ladies. His reputation and nightlife escapades have trickled into his day life. His job is on the line unless he can settle down and prove he is responsible and steadfast. Chad’s job as a helicopter pilot is his passion. He will do what is necessary to keep his job.

When Chad ends up in Lena’s bed by mistake it is a win win situation for both of them. Lena offers to be Chad’s fake girlfriend by day. In return Chad can help her with some of her problems. He is hers by night.

Although this is an unconventional path to healing it works. Chad’s intuitions, patience, sense of humor, and insight are just what Lena needs.

Love can be the healing touch. Together these two will find just what they really need in life. Together they will find peace, love , and happiness.

Sara Jane Stone delivers a well written heartfelt book. Her characters capture the reader’s attention. The story is well paced, realistic, sexy, and convincing. I enjoyed every moment reading Hero By Night.

Read Hero By Night and the Independence Falls Series. It will not disappoint!

Other Books By Sara Jane Stone

Full Exposure

No touching allowed …

After serving her country, Georgia Trulane craves adventure—and sex. She’s set her sights on her brother’s best friend—now her boss, since she took a temporary job as his nephew’s live-in nanny. Only problem? Eric refuses to touch her. That doesn’t stop Georgia from seducing him. But an earth-shattering encounter leaves her fully exposed, body and soul.

Eric has a long list of reasons to steer clear of the woman he has wanted for as long as he can remember. For one, he refuses to be her next thrill ride. When he claims her, it will be for good. But the attraction is undeniable, and the more they fight it, the stronger it pulls. But will it be enough to conquer their obstacles?

Links to Buy: Amazon ~ Barnes and Noble ~ iBooks ~ Google Play ~ Kobo

Caught in the Act

Falling for his rivals’ little sister could cost him everything …

For Liam Trulane, failure is not an option. He is determined to win a place in Katie Summers’ life before she leaves Independence Falls for good. But first, he needs to make amends for the last time they got down and dirty.

Only problem?

His professional success hinges on striking a deal to buy Katie’s family business. And after Liam’s relationship with their Katie went south years ago, the Summers brothers are more enemy than friend. If both parties agree to set the past aside, they can reach an understanding. But when Katie welcomes him back into her bed, Liam risks everything to make her his.

After Liam betrayed her trust, Katie Summers will do anything to keep him from walking away with the family business. She decides to seduce him, knowing that when her brothers find out, they will back off from the deal. And she’ll finally have her revenge. But when her plan spirals out of control, Katie learns that payback may come at too high a price …

Amazon ~ Barnes and Noble ~ iBooks ~ Google Play ~ Kobo

Author Bio
After several years on the other side of the publishing industry, Sara Jane Stone bid goodbye to her sales career to pursue her dream—writing romance novels. Sara Jane currently resides in Brooklyn, New York with her very supportive real-life hero, two lively young children and a lazy Burmese cat. Visit her online at http://www.sarajanestone.com or find her on Facebook at Sara Jane Stone.

Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Website ~ Goodreads

Verum by Courtney Cole : 5 + Star Reviews and 2015 Favorite

Posted on 02/05/2015 by shellbellereads

Verum

The Nocte Trilogy – Book 2

By Courtney Cole

Synopsis

THE TRUTH SHALL SET YOU FREE.

My name is Calla Price and I’m drowning.

My new world is a dark, dark ocean and I’m being pulled under by secrets.

Can I trust anyone? I don’t know anymore.

The lies are spirals. They twist and turn, binding me with their thorns and serpentine tongues. And just when I think I have it figured out, everything is pulled out from under me.

I’m entangled in the darkness.

But the truth will set me free.

It’s just ahead of me, so close I can touch it. But even though it shines and glimmers, it has glistening fangs and I know it will shred me.

Are you scared?

I am.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Michel’s Review

Verum , the second book in the Nocte Trilogy, by Courtney Cole released this week. The moment it went live I had to download it and begin reading it. Nocte, the first book in this trilogy, left readers with so many questions. It left our mind boggled. It left the reader with residual emotions that could not be put into perspective. The desperate anxious feelings have been festering.

The teasers that were put out before the release of Verum had readers theorizing and speculating where the this book would lead. The more readers formulated theories, the more confused I became. Each theory I read seemed credible and valid. They made sense. But… here is the thing… one part or two parts of a story are not a whole. They are building blocks that lead to the eventual outcome. It is a journey that takes many twists and turns. It was meant to engage the readers imagination, stimulate their sense of reasoning, test their patience, and induce every emotional response intended.

Verum takes a completely different direction from the previous book. The setting has changed. The circumstances revolving around the characters have morphed into something more complex. The potential danger and conflict has changed. New characters are introduced. There is a deeper and darker sense of despair. The twists and turns throughout the story have the reader’s mind whirling. Although the overall sense of the story has changed, the original plot is still driving this story. Each time the reader feels they have formulated pieces of the puzzle, the story shakes it up and the pieces fall into a new pattern. In the end, there is a huge revelation that makes this story make sense. This huge revelation is a relief. It also raises more questions.

Verum consumed me. It was a reading experience that left me drained (in a good way). Courtney Cole did an outstanding job with this book. She took the reader hostage, tortured their senses, engaged their minds, and led them on a very gothic journey. She meticulously chose each word to convey this story. Each passage was methodically placed to keep the reader on their toes and searching for clues. The writing was brilliant!

I am look forward to the final book in the Nocte Trilogy. I think the outcome is going to shock the reader to the core. I’m ready!

Robin’s Review

If you have already read Nocte by Courtney Cole, you know exactly what to expect with Verum. Unforeseen plot twists. Clues. Phrases and pieces of sentences which will have you scratching your head. Sentences consisting of nonsensical gibberish. Dreams? Visions? Hallucinations? Or truth?

The Nocte Trilogy is a literary jigsaw puzzle. It’s an intriguing mystery that will challenge your intelligence. Courtney Cole wants you to be confused. And if you are? She has succeeded with what she set out to do. In my case, Cole was successful. After I had finished reading Verum, everything I previously understood about Calla and Dare had been altered. I honestly have no idea what to think! One thing is for certain, I am desperate for the final novel of this trilogy! I cannot wait until the puzzle pieces finally fit together! Lux is expected to be released later in 2015. Courtney Cole has most definitely earned 5 stars and a place on my list of 2015 favorites with Verum!

ABOUT COURTNEY COLE:

Courtney Cole is a novelist who would eat mythology for breakfast if she could. She has a degree in Business, but has since discovered that corporate America is not nearly as fun to live in as fictional worlds. She loves chocolate and roller coasters and hates waiting and rude people.

Courtney lives in quiet suburbia, close to Lake Michigan, with her real-life Prince Charming, her ornery kids (there is a small chance that they get their orneriness from their mother) and a small domestic zoo.

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ARC Review: Give It All by Cara McKenna – Desert Dogs Series – Book 2

Posted on 02/05/2015 by shellbellereads

Give It All

Desert Dogs Series – Book 2

By Cara McKenna

Synopsis

A hot new Desert Dogs novel from the author of Lay It Down

Keep your friends close—and your enemies closer….

Bar owner Raina Harper can’t say for sure what Duncan Welch is to her. With her small Nevada town under siege by a ruthless casino development and still reeling from a spate of murders, she knows that trusting the public face of the corporate invaders is risky to say the least. Though, damn, it’s one fine-looking face.…

Duncan may be a mercenary when it comes to getting the job done, but he’s no villain. In fact, the calculating fixer soon finds himself in the bad guys’ crosshairs, framed and facing professional ruin. To clear his name, he’ll need help from Raina and her roughneck motorcycle club, the Desert Dogs. Gaining their trust won’t be easy, and the molten sexual tension between Raina and Duncan only makes things more complicated—especially since Miah Church, Raina’s friend and ex-lover, would sooner strangle Duncan than shake his hand.

One thing’s certain, though: If they don’t deal with their incendiary attraction soon, the whole damn town might go up in flames.…

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Michel’s Review

Are you looking for a book that has strong characters, great dialogue, a plot that is well executed, snarky banter, and tons of action ? Look no more…. Give It All by Cara McKenna has all this and more. I could not put the book down.

Cara McKenna took a character that most readers hated in the first book and had him capturing the reader’s interest within the first part of the book. She made us fall in love with this jerk.

Raina Harper is a tough bar owner in a small town in Nevada that is being taken over by casino development. She’s tough as nails and can handle her clientele, The Desert Dogs MC. When the investigation of the missing bones takes on twists and turns, it brings Duncan Welsh into the spotlight. He is the kind of man Raina hates to love. He is quirky, has a touch of OCD, has anxiety issues, and is a powerful attorney. He is one hot mess. The exact kind of hot mess that Raina can’t help but want to clean up.

Duncan Welch, the rich corporate lawyer finds himself a target after he pushes the bad guys buttons. He has been framed and is facing ruin. The only way to clear his name is to engage the help of the motorcycle club, The Desert Dogs. He will have to earn their trust and earn their assistance. The sexual tension and mutual attraction between him and Raina only makes matters worse. Miah Church is Raina’s best friend, ex lover, and self proclaimed protector. He would rather kill Duncan than help him.

Raina and Duncan could not be more different than night and day. Opposites do attract. These two bring out the very best and worst in each other. They also give each other the support and strength the other needs. They grow as individuals and they grow as a couple.

As the story unfolds, the suspense builds, and the town is on an explosive path. Raina and Duncan’s passion is heating up more than the town’s eminent demise. Sparks are flying everywhere and everyone is getting burned. Raina and Duncan’s passion is going to explode.

There is so much more to this ongoing story. Each book unravels another piece of the overall plot. I would highly recommend reading Lay It Down by Cara McKenna, book one in this series. I can’t wait for the next book.

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Author Bio:

Cara McKenna writes contemporary romance and smart erotica, sometimes under the name Meg Maguire, and has sold more than thirty-five novels and novellas to Ellora’s Cave, Penguin, Harlequin Blaze, Samhain, and Signet Eclipse. She’s known for writing no-nonsense, working-class heroes with capable hands and lousy grammar. She was a 2010 Golden Heart finalist, and a two-time Romantic Times Reviewers’ Choice Award nominee. Cara writes full-time and lives in the Pacific Northwest with her own bearded hero.

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ARC Review: Rescue Me by Catherine Mann – Second Chance Ranch Series – Book 2

Posted on 02/05/2015 by shellbellereads

Rescue Me

Second Chance Ranch Series – Book 2

By Catherine Mann

Synopsis

Detective AJ Parker left undercover work in Atlanta to join a small-town Tennessee police force, hoping for an easier workload and the solitude of his cabin. But the scars left by AJ’s previous work are more difficult to escape than he thought…

Mary Hannah Gallo works with the Second Chance Ranch Animal Rescue to train therapy dogs for traumatized patients. It isn’t easy, but her life is under control—until she meets the broodingly sensual AJ, who rattles her composure all the way to her toes.

After an assignment confiscating dogs from a backyard breeder reveals a dangerous drug operation, AJ must work with sexy perfectionist Mary Hannah to train an abused rescue dog—a dog now named Holly. While Holly proves to these two very different people that opposites can, in fact, attract, she also knows more than a few explosive secrets that could heal—or divide—the entire town.

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Michel’s Review

Rescue Me is the second book in the Second Chance Ranch series by Catherine Mann. This series has a unique flavor too it and grips the readers heart. This series focuses on the battered souls of both humans and animals. It allows these wounded souls to take the journey of healing and becoming whole individuals together. It showcases the importance of love and acceptance all beings need to thrive in life.

What makes this series exceptional is Catherine Mann’s incredible writing talent. These books have been portrayed through the animal’s POV. She clearly shows the generosity and simplicity of the pure hearts these animals possess. She shows how the companionship between animal and man makes the soul thrive.

The formula for this book is quite simple. The emotional content is bountiful. The story is delightful.

Take one woman that is a reformed drug addict. That woman is trying to earn redemption and forgiveness for her past. Take a man, a burned out cop, trying to run from his demons. Add a nasty drug dealer/ meth producer that is a menace to society as well as abusive to animals. His heartless disregard for life endangers all those he comes in contact with. Rescue a dog from that abusive dealer and give her a second chance at life. Her pure heart and gift of love will change both the woman and burned out man. She will bring these two people together and find a home for herself that is overflowing with love. The bad drug dealer will get what’s coming to him. Karma can be real vindictive.

Everything about Rescue Me worked. It is a story of healing. It is a story of many kinds of different love. It is a story of hope.

As an animal lover and owner of five rescue pets, this book touched my soul. I loved how Catherine Mann showed the world how animals can make a difference in our lives.

Author Bio:

USA Today bestselling author Catherine Mann writes contemporary romance for Berkley, Harlequin, and Sourcebooks, with her work reprinted in more than twenty countries. She lives on the Florida coast where she and her military flyboy husband have brought up four children. An active volunteer with her local Humane Society, Catherine enjoys writing while foster puppies nap on her feet. FMI: http://catherinemann.com

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ARC Review: Quarterback Draw by Jaci Burton – Play By Play Series- Book 9

Posted on 02/04/2015 by shellbellereads

Quarterback Draw

Play By Play Series – Book 9

By Jaci Burton

Synopsis

Playing For Keeps

Grant Cassidy knows how to be a football star—flash that dazzling smile, throw the winning pass, get the girl. But while the hot quarterback loves the game and the lifestyle, no woman has come close to catching his heart. Then he matches wits with a smart, gorgeous model, and Grant finds himself wanting more than a fling.

Supermodel Katrina Koslova might live in a world of glitz and camera flashes, but she works hard to provide for the family that relies on her. She doesn’t have time for fun—much less a boyfriend—but Grant seems determined to be the exception to Katrina’s rule.

Their explosive chemistry is undeniable, but Katrina’s afraid to let go and rely on anyone but herself. Grant intends to ease her fears and prove he’s a man of style and substance.

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Michel’s Review

Most people say you can’t judge a book by it’s cover. The cover for Quarterback Draw is one of the hottest covers I have seen. It definitely draws a reader to pick up this book. In this case, the book is just a yummy as the cover.

Quarterback Draw is another sexy addition to the Play By Play series by Jaci Burton. This is the ninth book in this successful erotic sports romance series. Jaci Burton has added another hot professional athlete to the roster of all stars.

Grant Cassidy is one of the hottest quarterbacks on and off the field. He takes the meaning of player to a whole new level until he meets Katrina Koslova. She’s a whole new game that he intends to win. This time there is more at stake than scoring. His heart has been engaged in the game.

Katrina is unlike all the other women Grant has encountered. She has more than her super model looks going for her. The one thing that sets her apart is the fact that even though she is attracted to him, she has flat out turned him down. The game is on.

Patience and persistence are the latest strategies in Grant’s game plan. Utilizing all the players in the game, namely Katrina’s brother and sister, to help him get his foot in the door is a brilliant game plan.

Although Katrina is extremely attracted to Grant, she can’t indulge in having a relationship. She has family responsibilities that come first. She is determined to raise her brother and sister and give them a better life than she was given.

As Grant and Katrina fumble around in the game of love the readers will be their number one fans. These two people are amazing. If Katrina can let her defenses down she will have the opportunity of winning the ultimate prize. She will win the love of a lifetime.

Quarterback Draw is hands down one of my favorite books in this series. Grant and Katrina were remarkable characters that were easy to relate to and easy to fall in love with. Their families added that extra something special that makes a book stand out. Their charm and dedication to Grant and Katrina was heartwarming.

One of the best parts of this book was the first Annual Cassidy Football Game. It was a riot and had me rolling with laughter.

Everything about the Quarterback Draw worked! I loved it!

Quarterback Draw can be read as a stand alone novel. It does not have to be read in series order.

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Author Bio:

Jaci Burton is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling, award-winning author of over 60 books. She lives in Oklahoma and when she isn’t on deadline, she can usually be found trying to convince her husband to remodel some room or another in their house (she blames HGTV for this). She loves gardening, sports, casinos and getting lost in a great book. She’s a total romantic and longs for the happily ever after in every story, which you’ll find in all her books.

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ARC Review: Hero by Samantha Young

Posted on 02/04/2015 by shellbellereads

Hero

By Samantha Young

Synopsis

The emotional and unforgettable new romance from the New York Times bestselling author of the On Dublin Street series.

Alexa Holland’s father was her hero—until her shocking discovery that her mother and she weren’t his only family. Ever since, Alexa has worked to turn her life in a different direction and forge her own identity outside of his terrible secrets. But when she meets a man who’s as damaged by her father’s mistakes as she is, Alexa must help him.

Caine Carraway wants nothing to do with Alexa’s efforts at redemption, but it’s not so easy to push her away. Determined to make her hate him, he brings her to the edge of her patience and waits for her to walk away. But his actions only draw them together and, despite the odds, they begin an intense and explosive affair.

Only Caine knows he can never be the white knight that Alexa has always longed for. And when they’re on the precipice of danger, he finds he’ll do anything to protect either one of them from being hurt again….

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Tracey’s Review

Since finding out that she is the dirty little secret of the prestigious Holland family of Boston, Alexa Holland has not had the easiest life. Never feeling like she was enough for her father or his wealthy family, Alexa has worked hard to make a place for herself in the world. But Alexa is not the only casualty of Alistair Holland’s poor choices, and when she meets Caine Carraway, who has suffered his own loss at the hands of Alexa’s family, she is determined to make amends. Only Caine is not in the business of forgetting, or forgiving.

I love a book with a hot alpha man. And if the main female character is strong and self-sufficient, even better. I was hooked from the first page of HERO, because Samantha Young has written a story with stong characters, an intriguing plot, and lots and lots of hot and sexy scenes. Alexa is more than a product of her past. She’s been dealt a crummy hand, and has risen above it to make a life for herself that is a far cry from the shame of her childhood. She is smart and successful in her own right, and not afraid to speak her mind, which I love to see, because it makes for a much more interesting story. When Caine realizes who Alexa is, he is determined to exact revenge for his own suffering. But Alexa, being the strong woman that she is, refuses to make it easy for him, intent on helping him whether he wants it or not. With such strong main characters, the chemistry between the two of them was bound to be combustible, and Samantha does not disappoint. The spark between Alexa and Caine is immediate, undeniable, and white-hot. I could not put this book down because I was so invested in seeing how their relationship would play out.

The addition of extremely likable and entertaining supporting characters like Rachel, Effie, and Henry make this read even more enjoyable. As HERO is my first experience with Samantha’s books, I look forward to reading her others, and give this one five hot stars.

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Author Bio:

Samantha Young is a New York Times, USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author from Stirlingshire, Scotland. She’s been nominated for the Goodreads Choice Award 2012 for Best Author and Best Romance for her international bestseller ON DUBLIN STREET. ON DUBLIN STREET is Samantha’s first adult contemporary romance series and has sold in twenty-eight countries.

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Saucy Southern Readers

professional, honest, and timely book reviews

Category Archives: 5-Star

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Happy Release + 5 Star Review + Giveaway: Controlling Her Pleasure by Lili Valente- Under His Command Series – Book 1

Happy Release + Review: A Desperate Man Vol. 2 by Ella Frank and Brooke Blaine

Release Blitz + 5 Star Review + Giveaway: Rebel by Callie Hart – Dead Man’s Ink Series – Book 1

5 Star Review: Hero By Night by Sara Jane Stone – Independence Falls Series- Book 3

Verum by Courtney Cole : 5 + Star Reviews and 2015 Favorite

ARC Review: Give It All by Cara McKenna – Desert Dogs Series – Book 2

ARC Review: Rescue Me by Catherine Mann – Second Chance Ranch Series – Book 2

ARC Review: Quarterback Draw by Jaci Burton – Play By Play Series- Book 9

ARC Review: Hero by Samantha Young

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