Review: In The Dark by Monica Murphy – The Rules Series – Book 2

Posted on 09/06/2015 by shellbellereads

In The Dark

The Rules Series – Book 2

By Monica Murphy

Release Date: August 25, 2015

Stuck spending the summer with his screwed up family, Gabriel Walker is bored out of his mind and looking for an adventure. And he seems to find it with the hot girl who lives next door. The attraction between them is instant. Electric. Soon they’re spending every stolen minute together. Talk about the perfect summer fling…

Lucy isn’t what she seems. She doesn’t live next door—she’s the girl who’s been hired to house sit for the summer while the family goes on a worldwide vacation. If Gabe wants to believe she’s a spoiled rich girl looking for some fun, she can go along with that. After the summer, she’ll never see him again.

They don’t count on running into each other at college. Now Lucy must keep up the pretense of being a rich girl—and it’s exhausting. She knows she’s falling in love with Gabe and she’s scared he feels the same. Will he still care about her when he discovers the truth?

Michel’s Review

In The Dark by Monica Murphy is the second book in The Rules series. This New Adult series features three rich bad boys and the dynamic young women that capture their hearts and change their bad boy ways. This series is fun, sexy, and light hearted. It’s not weighed down with emotional angst or over the top sexcapades. It’s the perfect series to add to your ereader and is guaranteed to delight.

Gabriel Walker is on a forced summer vacation with his family. He is bored and spends his time spying on his sexy neighbor. When he finally approaches her little does he realize that he has just given away the key to his heart.

Lucy is house sitting for the summer. She knows she doesn’t fit in with the rich elite residents. She tries to stay away from Gabe Walker but it is impossible. He may be rich but he is also a decent guy that’s fun to be around.

The two decide to have a summer fling. Gabe assumes Lucy is in the same social class he is. She doesn’t tell him any different. What does it matter, they won’t see each other after summer ends.

Summer comes to an end and it’s back to school. Both Gabe and Lucy are surprised when they run into one another on campus. She thought he was living in Texas. He thought she was a rich girl living out of daddy’s pockets. Now they both have to face the truth. The one thing that is still apparent is that they can’t stay away from one another or keep their hands off one another. But first they will have to deal with their secrets.

Once again Monica Murphy wrote the perfect new adult romance. It had the perfect combination of the carefree coed spirit, the emotional moments, and the sizzling hot romance.

I highly recommend In The Dark and Fair Game. The Rules series is delightful.

I am looking forward to the final book, Slow Play.

The Rule Series

Fair Game

The Rule Series – Book 1

Release Date: May 12, 2015

By Monica Murphy

Buy: Amazon

Synopsis

FAIR GAME (The Rules Series, Book 1) May 12, 2015

Bad enough Jade Frost’s boyfriend drags her to a boring poker game. Even worse that he actually threw her into the betting pot during an intense round…and lost. Talk about the perfect excuse for Jade to make him her ex-boyfriend.

Now she supposedly belongs to the ultra rich, extremely gorgeous Shep Prescott. He could have anything he wants yet he seems to be in hot pursuit of her. No matter how rude, how snarky, how impossible she acts, it doesn’t stop him. More like her horrible behavior seems to make him want her more.

When she finds herself starting to fall for him, Jade’s confused. There’s more to Shep than the carefree rich charmer he portrays. He has secrets. And she wants to discover them, no matter how ugly they might be…

In The Dark

The Rule Series – Book 2

Release Date: August 25, 2015

By Monica Murphy

Synopsis

IN THE DARK (Book 2) August 25, 2015

Lucy isn’t what she seems. She doesn’t live next door—she’s the maid who’s been hired to house sit for the summer while the family goes on a worldwide vacation. If Gabe wants to believe she’s a spoiled rich girl looking for some fun, she can go along with that. After the summer, she’ll never see him again.

Slow Play

The Rule Series – Book 3

Release Date: November 3, 2015

By Monica Murphy

Synopsis

SLOW PLAY (Book 3) November 3, 2015

Newly broke girl Alexandria Asher just wants to live a normal life. After her parents are sent to prison on embezzlement charges, she enrolls in college under her mother’s maiden name and tries her best to pretend she’s someone else.

Tristan Chadwick is everything Alex is trying to avoid. A seemingly egotistical, lazy, rich jerk, she dumps her beer on his head when he comes on to her one night at a party. This only spurs Tristan into action. He loves nothing more than a challenge. And the beautiful Alex is exactly the type of challenge that intrigues him.

Despite her reluctance, Alex finds herself quickly involved with Tristan. Underneath that playboy exterior is a good guy, a sweet and sexy guy who she is undoubtedly falling for. What they both don’t realize is the actions of Alex’s parents are the reason for so much tragedy in Tristan’s family. And when Tristan discovers who Alex and her family really is, can he forgive and forget?
______________________________________________________________________________

I write books. I have the best job ever. New York Times and USA Today bestselling author. Writer of new adult contemporary romance-ish stuff. Published with Avon and Bantam. Mom and wife. Native Californian.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Blog Tour + Review + Giveaway: Broken Oaths by V. L. Moon and J. T. Cheyanne

Posted on 09/04/2015 by shellbellereads

Broken Oaths

By V. L. Moon & J. T. Cheyanne

Synopsis

Betrayed by his peers and slandered as a traitor, Commander Thierry Donovan has nothing left. Locked away and targeted by the very men responsible for his incarceration, Thierry defies the odds and fights for the fundamental right to survive the hell-hole of his imprisonment. With no one to trust, Thierry finds solace in the last place he imagines…

The church is Ryan Flynn’s sanctuary. He craves the solitude and peace he finds in the hallowed halls. His oath to serve God is a calling Ryan has hidden behind all of his adult life; until his past catches up with him in the form of his foster brother, Special Agent Orrin Hunt…

Submerging himself within a world of danger, violence and corruption is the only way Orrin can cope with life. Rejected and tormented by the bitter remorse of unrequited love, Orrin is oblivious to the beauty of what life can offer him. If he’d only open his eyes, and maybe his heart….

Jaydan Callahan’s life is a wreck. Gangs, drugs and violence are a part of his normal day to day routine. For one so young, he’s seen it, been there, done it and gotten more than enough tee shirts as proof. Capable of smelling a cop from a mile away, it comes as no surprise to Jay when the guy he has the hots for is actually working under cover to bring down the town’s notoriously dangerous king pin.

Four men, four lives, each one of them stained by lies, corruption and doubt. Can love show them the path to redemption, or will broken oaths, fear and grief make the crosses they bear too heavy a mantle to carry.

Love is Love

Buy: Amazon / Amazon UK / B & N / Smashwords

Lis’ Review

The authors of “Crimson Reign” and “Love, Life and Circumstance” have never been ones to shy away from digging deep to give their readers a story that pushes boundaries, makes the readers think and feel and clamor for more. Crimson Reign gave us the wickedly sexy vampire king and his angel in a paranormal world in upheavel. LLC gave us two men with a baby to care for in the South with all its prejudices. And now “Broken Oaths” gives us Ryan and Thierry, pushing the limits again with the story of a priest and a Navy Commander.

Thierry Donovan is a former Navy Commander falsely accused of treason and jailed in a super secure facility in solitary confinement. The only other people he sees are the guards who watch over him, including his friend A.J. who goes easy on the rules for the prisoner. Thierry has no outside contact until he asks for, and is sent, a priest, Father Ryan Flynn. Their connection is instant, but like anyone else whose life is tied up in the rules and restrictions of their chosen profession or current fall from grace, both try to deny what they feel.

We learn of their pasts right away. The opening chapters tell us why these men chose the path they did, and give us a glimpse of the obstacles they faced along the way. Thierry’s career and life have been destroyed by his imprisonment. Father Flynn’s profession is an effort to get rid of the sinner label he brought down on himself because of his and his foster brother’s teenage exploration of their growing attraction. Both hide behind these shields they use so effectively – for a while. Thrown together in the priest and penitent roles, they soon acknowledge that there is something more between them as they work to bring justice to Thierry and bring down the one who used him as a scapegoat in a treasonous plot. Their story is about learning to trust in themselves and in each other, never giving up on love no matter how hard the fight.

Orrin Hunt, Flynn’s foster brother, has loved Ryan since they were wayward teens who helped each other cope through the difficult nightmares they faced. He’s involved behind the scenes trying to find the truth behind Thierry’s imprisonment and as such, is the one who brings Father Flynn into Thierry’s life. Orrin’s love for Ryan has endured all these years, until he goes undercover in a local street gang and meets Jay Callahan, the young, smart mouthed leader of the group. Jay falls hard for Orrin, but Ryan is the white elephant in the room, the love Orrin has for Ryan a wall that blinds him to what’s staring him in the face. Their story is about letting go of the past and embracing the future, daring to take the risk for love.

And tying these two couples together is the intrigue, a plot very carefully constructed that makes the reader anxious to find out just exactly how the whole thing will be revealed. It builds like the walls of Thierry’s prison cell, brick by brick. And with four strong-willed characters, there is no doubt they will figure it out.

Unfortunately, the villains were the one area that let me down. Characterization and angst is definitely these authors’ strong suit and in this book the whole mystery was right up there with it. The plot was complex and excellently crafted, with all the characters’ actions and reactions to each other and to their situation adding to the edge of the seat reading experience. Until one particular scene that made me stop and go “Really?” I just didn’t buy it. With that one scene the villains, who up until then were wonderfully evil, became caricatures of themselves. That one scene weakened the intrigue, pushing it into campiness instead of suspense.
Everyday struggles for love, for recognition, for redemption made this book a winner, overcoming the problem with the villains. The love stories of Ryan and Thierry and of Orrin and Jay are well written and very realistic. They struggle with their feelings, each one questioning his worth, his actions, his heart. As they work through all the machinations of being together, we as readers realize right along with them that outer trappings don’t matter. It’s what’s in the heart that rules.

__________________________________________

Giveaway
Prize: 3 ebook copies of Broken Oaths
a Rafflecopter giveaway
//widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js

____________________________________________

About the authors

Laz and Lachi Publications is the combined writing team of J.T. Cheyanne and V.L. Moon. The two met in 2010, fell hard and fast for each other and married in April 2014. They write both independently and together in the gay erotica and gay paranormal genres. They also have a couple of contemporary romance novels under their belt.

Social media links

Our joint page

https://www.facebook.com/LazLachibooks

Website

http://www.lazandlachi.com/

JT Cheyanne

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jtcheyannestories

Twitter: https://twitter.com/JTCheyanne

VL Moon

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VenusMoonstories

Twitter: https://twitter.com/VenusMoon5

Cover Reveal : Blow by Kim Karr

Posted on 09/03/2015 by shellbellereads

One Couple…

Two New Books…

A Story of Tainted Love…

Blow – September 21, 2015 – Book 1

Crush – November 16, 2015 – Book 2

****

Blow

By Kim Karr

Release Date: September 21, 2015

Synopsis

2 fatal sides.

1 epic love.

7 days to survive.

They met in the face of danger. They weren’t looking for love. They both knew better. But they couldn’t stay away, and they fell hard.

He is heart-stopping handsome, fearless—and haunted by deadly ties.

She is breathtakingly beautiful, determined—and in harm’s way.

They should have parted. They didn’t. They never should have fucked. They did. And now time is running out. One hundred sixty eight hours. That’s all that remains. While Logan McPherson fights to save them, Elle Sterling is forced to make a choice that could change everything.

When torn between right and wrong, tainted love doesn’t have a chance…or does it? ‪#‎taintedlove ‪#‎weshouldhaveknownbetter

****

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

Stalk Her: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Release Blitz + Excerpt + 5 Star Review: Under My Skin by J. Kenner – The Stark International Trilogy – Book 3

Posted on 09/03/2015 by shellbellereads

Under My Skin

Stark International Trilogy – Book 3

By J. Kenner

Synopsis

Jackson Steele and Sylvia Brooks are back in the powerful finale of a provocative, sizzling-hot new erotic trilogy set in the world of J. Kenner’s beloved Stark novels: Release Me, Claim Me, and Complete Me.

He’s the only man I’ve ever loved, and the one man I can’t bear to lose.

Jackson Steele is my light in this world. Charismatic, bold, and always in control, he knows what he wants and how to get it—and absolutely nothing stands in his way. His hold on me is magnetic, his claim on me complete, his kiss my ultimate escape.

We both harbor dark secrets that could tear our lives apart. Though we’ve tried to bury our pasts, there are certain people who won’t let us forget. But the closer danger comes, the brighter the fire between us burns—our ecstasy consuming and soothing us both.

There’s no telling what lies ahead, but I know that Jackson never gives in without a fight. I’d do anything he wants to keep him safe, give him anything he needs. And now that we’re in deep, nothing can make me run.

Under My Skin is intended for mature audiences.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Excerpt

“Take off your clothes.”

I shake my head.

His brow quirks just slightly. “Take off your clothes.” This time, each word is stressed.

I lick my lips. “No.”

The corner of his mouth twitches, and he stands up slowly. “No?”

I meet his eyes defiantly. “I thought you were taking what you wanted.”

“I am,” he says. “What I want is your submission.”

“Oh.”

I see a flash of victory in his eyes before he starts to walk away. “Decide how you want to play the game, sweetheart. But know that I’m only willing to play by my rules.”

He is almost to the steps that lead back to the deck when I call out to him. He turns, his brow raised in silent query.

I slip off my ballet flats. And then, as he slowly walks back toward me, I peel myself out of my jeans, taking my underwear with them. He reaches down, then uses the tip of his finger to lift them off the deck of the boat. “Lace. Very nice.”

“I’m glad you approve.” My voice sounds breathy. I’m standing there in only a T-shirt and bra. The window facing the ocean is open, and the cool night air teases me until I am right there on the edge, waiting to go over, and wanting that push so badly that I’m not sure I can survive the anticipation.

Michel’s Review

Under My Skin by J. Kenner is the third and final book in The Stark International Trilogy. It should not be read as a stand alone novel and should be read in series order.

The Stark International Trilogy has been captivating. This trilogy has everything readers look for in a series. It has a powerful erotic romance between two strong characters. It’s loaded with intrigue, mystery, conflict, and a powerful cast of supporting characters. At the same time it is a tender beautiful romance between two people that have struggled with their pasts.

Under My Skin is the powerful conclusion. On My Knees left off with a doozy of a cliffhanger. Jackson Steele was facing arrest for the murder of Robert Cabot Reed. He was also trying to get full custody of his young daughter. The impending arrest could affect the outcome of his parental rights. The arrest could alert the media of the reasons behind his extreme protests against the movie being made about a painful part of his past. If this is exposed not only will it hurt his daughter but will also make him look all the more guilty for the murder of Robert Cabot Reed. It could also expose Sylvia’s dark secrets and her connection to Robert Cabot Reed. It may very well be the final straw that destroys the Cortez Project. His house is of cards is falling down. His life is falling apart and he’s fighting to save the two most important people in his life.

This book was intense, heart breaking, emotional, and a page turner. It kept the reader on the edge of their seats. When all the revelations are made and all of the emotional battles are hard won, Jackson and Sylvia are finally going to get their happily ever after.

J. Kenner did a magnificent job with her delivery of The Stark International trilogy. She created a story and charismatic characters that left the readers wanting more. She gave a final resolution that will leave the readers more than satisfied.

I highly recommend The Stark International Trilogy. Under My Skin is the powerful conclusion.

_______________________________________________

The Stark International Trilogy

Say My Name – Book 1

“>New York Times bestselling author J. Kenner kicks off a smoking hot, emotionally compelling new trilogy that returns to the world of her beloved Stark novels: Release Me, Claim Me, and Complete Me. Say My Name features Jackson Steele, a strong-willed man who goes after what he wants, and Sylvia Brooks, a disciplined woman who’s hard to get—and exactly who Jackson needs.

I never let anyone get too close—but he’s the only man who’s ever made me feel alive.

Meeting Jackson Steele was a shock to my senses. Confident and commanding, he could take charge of any room . . . or any woman. And Jackson wanted me. The mere sight of him took my breath away, and his touch made me break all my rules.

Our bond was immediate, our passion untamed. I wanted to surrender completely to his kiss, but I couldn’t risk his knowing the truth about my past. Yet Jackson carried secrets too, and in our desire we found our escape, pushing our boundaries as far as they could go.

Learning to trust is never easy. In my mind, I knew I should run. But in my heart, I never felt a fire this strong—and it could either save me or scorch me forever.

Say My Name is intended for mature audiences.

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

On My Knees – Book 2

Jackson Steele and Sylvia Brooks continue to thrill in the second novel of a scintillating, emotionally charged new trilogy that returns to the world of J. Kenner’s beloved Stark novels: Release Me, Claim Me, and Complete Me.

I never thought I’d lose control, but his desire took me right to the edge.

Powerful, ambitious, and devastatingly sexy, Jackson Steele was unlike any other man I’d ever known. He went after what he wanted with his whole mind, body, and soul—and I was the woman in his sights. One touch and I surrendered, one night together and I was undone.

Jackson and I had secrets, dark pieces of our pasts that threatened to swallow us both. We couldn’t outrun our demons, or the people trying to tear us apart. But in our passion we found salvation, and in each other’s arms we found release.

I was scared to trust Jackson fully, to finally let go. Yet no matter the dangers that lay ahead, I knew I was his—and now that we’ve laid claim, there’s no more holding back.

On My Knees is intended for mature audiences.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Under My Skin – Book 3

He’s the only man I’ve ever loved, and the one man I can’t bear to lose.

Under My Skin is intended for mature audiences.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

__________________________________________

Author Bio:

J. Kenner spent more than ten years as a litigator in Southern California and Central Texas, using her rare free time to indulge her passion for writing. California born, she now lives—and writes—in Texas, with her husband and daughters.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Release Blitz: Fire Me Up by Rachael Johns – Deacons of Bourbon Street MC – Book 2

Posted on 09/01/2015 by shellbellereads

Enter to Win a

Select Ebook Loveswept Bundle

FIRE ME UP

Deacons of Bourbon Street #2

Rachael Johns

Releasing Sept 1st, 2015

Can a scorching affair with a
bohemian beauty tame a motorcycle man with a dark side? Rachael Johns takes the
wheel in the sexy series co-written with Megan Crane, Jackie Ashenden, and
Maisey Yates.

Travis “Cash” Sinclair values only two things from his days with the Deacons of
Bourbon Street: his prized Harley Davidson and the man
who gave it to him. But now Priest Lombard is gone, and Cash has inherited the
Deacons’ clubhouse—not to mentions its unexpected tenant. She’s exactly the
type of woman he tries to avoid: all incense and art, with a sharp tongue that
promises trouble. So why does Cash want to push aside those flowing skirts and
lose himself between her legs?Billie Taylor fled a bad marriage to start a new life among the grit and
glamour of the French Quarter. She refuses to let another man distract her from
her dreams, especially an outlaw biker with nothing to offer except hot sex and
an eviction notice. Cash is dangerous, with an untamed streak he tries
desperately to conceal. He drives Billie wild, sending her too close to the
edge for her own good. And she won’t fall under his spell—or into his
bed—without a fight.

BUY NOW

Amazon | B
& N | iTunes | Kobo

Excerpt

“This room is mine,” she said, folding her arms and glaring at him with more bravado than she felt as he turned to look at her with his dark, smoldering eyes. She shivered despite herself and almost forgot to add, “If you insist on staying, you’ll have to choose from one of the others.”

He took his time replying, his gaze sliding downward, scalding her body as if he’d actually touched her. For a moment she thought he was going to object—tell her that not only would he share her house but also her bed—but eventually he shut her wardrobe and nodded. “I always preferred the one next to this anyway.”

She swallowed. Of all the rooms in the house, he wanted to choose the one right next to hers? How would she sleep knowing he was mere yards away? Still, she was hardly in a position to argue, and if it would get him out of her personal space, well, that was a start.

“Fine.” She stepped back and gestured for him to leave. The only good thing about having Travis right next door was that she could keep an eye on him. Or was that a bad thing? Argh.

Surprisingly, he obeyed, stalking past her and smirking again as he did. She hated that she caught a waft of some raw, masculine cologne, which sent ripples of need through her body, rousing places she’d given little thought to over the last year. How ironic that the first sign of life down there had sparked because of a man who seemed intent on messing up her life. Why were the sexiest guys, the best-looking ones, always the biggest jerks?

He didn’t head straight for his room, instead going into the kitchen, and she found herself following. Her hackles rose as he opened the refrigerator and leaned inside, giving her a perfect view of his perfect butt. Oh help me, God! Had any guy she’d ever known looked so damn fine in faded jeans? Her thighs involuntarily clenched.

“No beer,” he said as he straightened.

Despite the traitorous hormones rushing through her body, she shook her head. It went against the grain of every single cell in her body not to be hospitable, but then again she hadn’t invited him to stay here with her. “Nope. Sorry. But there’s a bar next door.”

She wished he’d go back to it. He had to be one of the Deacons that had been hanging around The Priory the last few days. Sophie had given her a brief history of the motorcycle club—apparently it had disbanded around the time of Katrina—and informed her that it would be unlikely any of its members would hang around after her father’s funeral. But, dammit, it looked like she’d been wrong on that account. Billie needed to go see Sophie, make sure this guy was for real. For all she knew he could be anybody. He hadn’t shown her any proof that he owned the building, but something—maybe the way he’d leaned into her face when he told her no one tells him what the fuck to do—made her cautious. He was like a wild animal, and she didn’t want to make any sudden moves.

He smiled wickedly and leaned back against the counter, looking her over again, making her feel aroused and insulted all at once. “I know it. The bar and this place used to be my home.”

“Is that right?” She wondered about Travis Sinclair. He had the leather jacket, the swagger in his step and the don’t-mess-with-me attitude of a biker, but there was something about him that didn’t fit the image. He wore no patches like a couple of other guys she’d seen hanging around next door, but that wasn’t it. There was something else she couldn’t quite put her finger on. “And where is your home now?”

She waited for him to tell her it was none of her fucking business, but he shrugged off his jacket, hung it over one of the odd chairs that sat around her kitchen table and then pulled back the seat and straddled it. “Tallahassee,” he said as he leaned down and yanked a laptop out of his pack. It was a flashy MacBook Air—not at all the type of computer she’d expect of a biker. He didn’t even glance her way as he put it on the table in front of him, lifted the lid and tapped his boots against the tiled floor as he waited for the computer to spring to life.

No idea where Tallahassee was—geography had never been her thing—she vowed to google it later. Leaning back against the kitchen counter, she wiped her palm across her brow, feeling hot and more than a little bothered. Being warm in itself wasn’t unusual in New Orleans or in Western Australia where she came from, but the weather had nothing to do with the rise in her body temperature. And that disturbed her.

Her eyes zoned in on the bad-boy ink that traveled the length of his sculpted and tanned forearms, and the heat that had been simmering inside her boiled over.

Until this moment she’d have said she wasn’t a fan of body art—personally, she preferred her art on walls or in gardens—but Travis’s tattoos changed her opinion. And that was bad, because with her divorce only recently official, the last thing she wanted in her life was another man who thought he could walk all over her.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
//widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js

Rachael Johns is an English teacher by
trade, a mum 24/7, a supermarket owner, a chronic arachnophobic, and a writer
the rest of the time. She rarely sleeps and never irons. She writes
contemporary romance for HQN and Carina Press and lives in rural Western
Australia with her hyperactive husband and three mostly-gorgeous
heroes-in-training. Rachael loves to hear from readers and can be contacted
through her website at www.rachaeljohns.com

Website | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads

Release Blitz + 5 Star Review: Under My Skin by J. Kenner – The Stark International Trilogy – Book 3

Posted on 09/01/2015 by shellbellereads

Under My Skin

Stark International Trilogy – Book 3

By J. Kenner

Synopsis

He’s the only man I’ve ever loved, and the one man I can’t bear to lose.

Under My Skin is intended for mature audiences.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Excerpt

She slams the door shut, the limo pulls back out onto the street, and I am left beside Jackson who sits perfectly, dangerously still.

I swallow, my skin prickling from the rising heat.

I’m breathing hard, my breasts rising and falling. My skin is warm, and beads of perspiration have gathered at the nape of my neck.

He turns his head slowly, his eyes meeting mine, wild and feral and hard. There’s a hungry glint to them, and for a moment I fear that he will tear me to pieces. That I will truly stand as proxy for the bastards who leaked the news. For the fear that I know must be consuming him, just as it is consuming me.

But haven’t I repeatedly told him that I can handle it, no matter how bad it gets? That I will be his release valve, his safety net?

That I’ll willingly take in his pain—and then we’ll turn it around into passion.

I am still holding his gaze, and I feel locked in place simply from the force of his will. He has not touched me, and though we haven’t spoken, I know that he will not until I acquiesce. Not tonight. Not when he needs to push. To go as far as he needs, and then some.

“Yes,” I say.

A muscle twitches in his cheek, but he doesn’t otherwise move, nor does he say a word to me. He simply watches me for one beat, then another. It is as if he is sizing me up, testing my resolve. I stay where I am, looking back at him. But slowly—very slowly—I part my thighs.

Jackson sucks in a breath through his nose. Then he twists at the waist so that he can reach the intercom button. He jams his finger down on it.

“Don’t go home, Edward.” His voice is hard. Tight with control. “Just drive. I don’t care where. Just drive until I tell you to stop.”

Michel’s Review

Under My Skin by J. Kenner is the third and final book in The Stark International Trilogy. It should not be read as a stand alone novel and should be read in series order.

I highly recommend The Stark International Trilogy. Under My Skin is the powerful conclusion.

_______________________________________________

The Stark International Trilogy

Say My Name – Book 1

I never let anyone get too close—but he’s the only man who’s ever made me feel alive.

Learning to trust is never easy. In my mind, I knew I should run. But in my heart, I never felt a fire this strong—and it could either save me or scorch me forever.

Say My Name is intended for mature audiences.

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

On My Knees – Book 2

I never thought I’d lose control, but his desire took me right to the edge.

I was scared to trust Jackson fully, to finally let go. Yet no matter the dangers that lay ahead, I knew I was his—and now that we’ve laid claim, there’s no more holding back.

On My Knees is intended for mature audiences.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Under My Skin – Book 3

He’s the only man I’ve ever loved, and the one man I can’t bear to lose.

Under My Skin is intended for mature audiences.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

__________________________________________

Author Bio:

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Happy Release + 5 Star Review: Too Hard To Handle by Julie Ann Walker – Black Knights, Inc. Series – Book 8

Posted on 08/31/2015 by shellbellereads

Too Hard To Handle

Black Knights, Inc. Series – Book 8

By Julie Ann Walker

Synopsis

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Julie Ann Walker continues her red-hot Black Knights Inc. series in rough-and-tumble Peru

“The Man” is back
Dan “The Man” Currington is back in fighting form with a mission that takes him four thousand miles south of BKI headquarters, high in the Andes Mountains of Peru. He’s hot on the trail of a rogue CIA agent selling classified government secrets to the highest bidder, when Penni DePaul arrives on the scene. Suddenly the stakes are higher, and keeping Penni safe becomes Dan’s number one priority.

And this time she’s ready
A lot has changed since former Secret Service Agent Penni DePaul last saw Dan. Now a civilian, she’s excited about what the future might hold. But before she can grab onto that future with both hands, she has to tie up some loose ends-namely, Dan Currington, the man she just can’t forget. And a secret that’s going to change both their lives-if they can stay alive, that is.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Michel’s Review

Julie Ann Walker has another winner in The Black Knights, Inc. Series. The diehard fans of this series have been waiting for Too Hard To Handle for quite awhile. Too Hard To Handle does not disappoint.

Too Hard To Handle is the eighth book in the series. New readers can easily pick this book up and read it as a stand alone novel. It does not have to be read in series order although I would strongly recommend reading the entire series for a more involved reading experience.

We met Dan “The Man ” Currington in the first book of the series, Hell On Wheels. He experienced the tragic loss of his wife. Throughout the series Dan has been dealing with his loss and grief. He has struggled with moving on in his life. He’s lost himself in booze and self destruction. Throughout the series ( 7 books ) readers have gotten to experience Dan’s life and were left with a bitter taste. By the time book seven released, readers were more than anxious for Dan to get his own story. Dan is ready to pull his life out of the gutter. He’s ready to become a part of the living. Julie Ann Walker listened to the readers and introduced Dan to Penni DePaul in Full Throttle.

A high staked adventure in Peru will bring Penni and Dan together. They just have to stay alive to get their happily ever after.

Once again Julie Ann Walker has delivered a sexy ,fast paced, high adreline book that has a dynamic romance heating up the pages. Too Hard To Handle is a solid 5 Star book!

____________________________

Author Bio:

Julie Ann Walker is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of award-winning romantic suspense. She has won the Book Buyers Best Award, been nominated for the National Readers Choice Award, the Australian Romance Reader Awards, and the Romance Writers of America’s prestigious RITA award. Her latest release was named a Top Ten Romance of 2014 by Booklist. Her books have been described as “alpha, edgy, and downright hot.” Most days you can find her on her bicycle along the lake shore in Chicago or blasting away at her keyboard, trying to wrangle her capricious imagination into submission.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

6 Star Review + 2015 Favorite : Hope Is Lost by Emma James – Men of Ocean Beach Series – Book 2

Posted on 08/28/2015 by shellbellereads

Hope Is Lost

Men of Ocean Beach Series – Book 2

By Emma James

Synopsis

“When the power of love overcomes the love of power, the world will know peace.”
-Jimi Hendrix

Keanu Lee, the funny man, finds himself on the sticky end of a night out with his best friend Levi. Keanu’s life is about to take another unexpected, sharp turn. New friends will be found under the most unique circumstances.

Hope Walker is a lost soul, and Ajax, the street performer, is her unspoken protector. Together, they survive the streets of Ocean Beach.

Life has a way of righting wrongs when you least expect it.

Come join this sexy crew as they show you that, even though life may take from you, it can also give back when you least anticipate it.

The Ocean Beach series continues with the brotherhood, passion, and laughter you have grown to love, and through the eyes of these survivors, you will realize love can truly heal.

The past will never be forgotten, but there is hope if you just allow yourself to have a little faith.

*Reader Note*

This is an adult contemporary romance series of five books and one novella with a difference.

There is a brotherhood of guys who will make you feel a whole range of emotions, and all of the characters are strongly involved in each sequel.

This novel does contain strong sexual content for the mature 18+ reader.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Michel’s Review

Hope Is Lost by Emma James is the second book in the phenomenal Men of Ocean Beach Series. Once again Emma James delivered a poignant touching story that adds a few more layers to the epic ongoing story of the Men of Ocean Beach.

Hope Is Lost should not be read as a stand alone novel. The series should be read in order to experience this emotional story.

Hope Is Lost picks up where A Little Faith left off. Another revelation has been made that sent Faith into a whirlwind and left the guys dealing with the aftermath. That is only the beginning. Retro is moving full speed ahead. Slade is learning he has a softer side. Harley is learning that he can’t protect everyone, especially his heart. Levi is proving that beauty goes deeper that what is on the surface. Jase is battling his silence and is reaching out for love. Keanu is going to experience another frightening event that will renew his outlook on life. Hope Is Not Lost if you have A Little Faith. He will meet two extraordinary people that will teach him the true meaning of compassion.

Hope Walker and Ajax may not have a roof over their heads or money in their pockets. What they do have is far greater than all the riches in the world. They have heart. They have compassion for their fellow man. When they meet Keanu in a very unique situation, not only will it change their own lives but those of the Men of Ocean Beach and their close circle of friends. They are going to become a part of this close knit family and make them even better people.

Along the way the Ocean Beach crew is collecting new members for them to love and protect. A surely teenage boy and his enchanting six year old sister will become a part of this family. A stunning art gallery owner and a take charge grandmother will be embraced by this family.

The Men of Ocean Beach still have their crosses to bare. They still have their secrets. The latest members are no different. This unusual group of people will give a new definition to the word family. They will always have each others backs. They will always embrace the true meaning of compassion. They will pay it forward.

Once again Emma James delivered a multi layered story that only enhances the ongoing story of the Men of Ocean Beach. They are all leading characters that are demanding their happily ever after together. The will get it and experience a beautiful journey along the way.

Hope Is Lost ended with another astounding revelation that leaves the reading dying for the next book. It was not a cliffhanger… just an intermission for the rest of the story in The Men of Ocean Beach lives.

I can’t wait for Joy Is Found, the third book in the Men of Ocean Beach Series, to release.

Hope Is Lost was another phenomenal installment to the Men of Ocean Beach Series.

Men of Ocean Beach Series

A Little Faith – Book 1

“You never know how strong you are until being strong is the only choice you have.”
~ Bob Marley

Faith was nearly fifteen when her life was torn apart, she sheltered herself from knowing anything about that fateful day.

Six years later she is older and stronger and has decided to confront this sexy brotherhood of hot men she ignored for her own survival.

Harley, Keanu, Text, Levi and Retro will reveal to Faith all is not what it seems and she will discover the level of strength these friends possess.

She will come to realize the secrets they have all been shielding her from in humorous and emotional ways.

Faith isn’t going back to Dallas in a hurry, not until she can help those that need her the most.

This is a story of new beginnings, a strong brotherhood of sexy guys and a love that has been lost along the way. It is a story with twists and surprises that will tug at your heart as well as make you laugh.

Humor is a weapon that can only last so long until life peels the layers back and what is underneath and hurting shows through.

Faith wasn’t there for them when they needed her, but she damn well will make sure she is now.

Welcome to Ocean Beach.

Sometimes you just have to have A Little Faith.
Reader Note: This is a mature aged new adult/adult contemporary romance with a difference. This novel does not contain abusive parents, on the contrary. There is no mean girl, no rape or abuse or cheating. There is however a brotherhood of guys who will make you feel a whole range of emotions.

This novel does contain strong sexual content for the mature 18+ reader.

What I will tell you is this is a five book series with 2 novella’s also added to it. My style is different, readers are picking up on it. I am not just having boy meets girl in each book and HEA, there is more, much more going on. This is a series where all characters are strongly involved in each installment.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Hope Is Lost – Book 2

“When the power of love overcomes the love of power, the world will know peace.”
-Jimi Hendrix

Hope Walker is a lost soul, and Ajax, the street performer, is her unspoken protector. Together, they survive the streets of Ocean Beach.

Life has a way of righting wrongs when you least expect it.

Come join this sexy crew as they show you that, even though life may take from you, it can also give back when you least anticipate it.

The Ocean Beach series continues with the brotherhood, passion, and laughter you have grown to love, and through the eyes of these survivors, you will realize love can truly heal.

The past will never be forgotten, but there is hope if you just allow yourself to have a little faith.

*Reader Note*

This is an adult contemporary romance series of five books and one novella with a difference.

There is a brotherhood of guys who will make you feel a whole range of emotions, and all of the characters are strongly involved in each sequel.

This novel does contain strong sexual content for the mature 18+ reader.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Joy Is Found- Book 3

Coming 2015

_________________________________________________________________

Author Bio:

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

Emma James lives in Queensland, Australia with her supportive husband, three children and a big black Labrador. Life is busy and most entertaining in the James household.

Writing has been a part of her life for many years. Life was getting on and it was time to put her fears aside and do what she does best. It was time to show readers what she was made of, take that leap off the diving board and see where it takes her.

Emma is a creative person at heart. She loves to read as much as write, devouring books into the wee hours of the morning.

Who needs sleep, right?

Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads ~ Amazon Author Page ~ Pintrest

Blog Tour + 6 Star Review + 2015 Favorite + Giveaway : A Little Faith by Emma James – Men of Ocean Beach – Book 1

Posted on 08/28/2015 by shellbellereads

A Little Faith

Men of Ocean Beach Series – Book 1

By Emma James

Synopsis

“You never know how strong you are until being strong is the only choice you have.”
~ Bob Marley

Faith was nearly fifteen when her life was torn apart, she sheltered herself from knowing anything about that fateful day.

Six years later she is older and stronger and has decided to confront this sexy brotherhood of hot men she ignored for her own survival.

Harley, Keanu, Text, Levi and Retro will reveal to Faith all is not what it seems and she will discover the level of strength these friends possess.

She will come to realize the secrets they have all been shielding her from in humorous and emotional ways.

Faith isn’t going back to Dallas in a hurry, not until she can help those that need her the most.

Humor is a weapon that can only last so long until life peels the layers back and what is underneath and hurting shows through.

Faith wasn’t there for them when they needed her, but she damn well will make sure she is now.

Welcome to Ocean Beach.

Sometimes you just have to have A Little Faith.

Reader Note: This is a mature aged new adult/adult contemporary romance with a difference. This novel does not contain abusive parents, on the contrary. There is no mean girl, no rape or abuse or cheating. There is however a brotherhood of guys who will make you feel a whole range of emotions.

This novel does contain strong sexual content for the mature 18+ reader.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Excerpt

I’m swiveling back and forth, searching the crowd for Harley.

“Hey, short stuff.” A deep voice slices into my thoughts from over my right shoulder.

I slowly turn around, meeting Harley’s smiling face. I may have been short once, but now I am five-foot-eight, not exactly below-average height.

I take in Harley. He’s tall—six-four, at least—and gorgeous with light brown, short hair; tanned skin; and does he have some ink work on his arms? I’m normally very curious about tattoos, but now isn’t the time to look.

I know I’m looking him up and down, but it’s been so long, and he has changed. The softer boy features have been replaced by a big, muscular, chiseled man.

I swallow.

“Wow, is that really you, Harley Madden?” I’m drinking him in. I don’t remember Harley being so big and buff. His charcoal t-shirt molds tightly to his chest like a second skin. He wasn’t this muscular the last time I saw him. His belted, black jeans and boots complete his handsome look that has quite a few people in the crowd appraising him. He looks a little dangerous in his dark clothing. He would make Will purr like the cat who got the cream. I must admit, even I’m a little taken back.

He leans in and grabs me in a bear hug, lifting me off the ground, leaving me a little breathless. My face is nestled in his neck, catching his scent of cologne and soap.

Wow.

“Okay, big guy, you can stop squeezing the life out of me now,” I try to breathe out. He loosens his hold and slowly let’s go while I take a step back.

“You look amazing, Harley.” I find myself smiling. It feels good. I was worried about feeling awkward meeting Harley again after so long, but something just clicks. He was my brother’s best friend, and I’ve known him all my life. “It’s been a long time.”

“I could say the same about you. I might have to start calling you Faith.” He flashes me an amused grin, showing me perfect, white teeth and a dimple.

The baggage carousel starts up and everybody squeezes in tighter, trying to jockey for a position to get their luggage when it appears.

“Whoa!” I’m already beginning to feel less nervous having Harley here with me when I’m suddenly knocked off balance. Harley’s left arm snags me around the waist, bringing me up against his hard side. He shoots the person beside me a dirty look. Some people really do need to chill out when they travel.

I step away from him when I notice my case coming towards me.

Harley stops me with a gentle, firm hand on my arm. “I’ll get it for you, which one?”

With one, bright blue suitcase and camera bag in his hands, Harley walks me out the sliding doors of the airport and we cross to the parking garage.

The sun is shining, and my grey hoodie jacket is making me too hot. I unzip it, taking it off as I’m walking, revealing a tight white tank top. Much cooler.

Harley is staring at my chest and nearly trips over. I roll my eyes. You can never take the boy out of the man.

“Harley, are you finished staring?” I laugh a little at the look on his face. “So I grew up.”

“You certainly did,” he mutters and looks away. I could have sworn I heard him swear and mumble something about guard duty.

Michel’s Review

*** Spoiler Free Review ***

Wow ! Wow ! Wow! A Little Faith by Emma James was astonishing! This book came as a complete surprise and kept me glued to the pages. The characters jumped out of the pages and pulled me into their world. They made me experience their lives. They shared their lives with an open honesty and generous hearts. They made me admire their strength, courage, generosity, and dedication to one another. Their lives were fractured by one horrific event. They faced adversity with an eloquent spirit. They were not left untouched. They carry their scars with grace. They deal with their nightmares by depending on one another. They don’t allow this horrific event to defeat them. They allow that moment in time to define the remarkable men they are today. They will always be haunted by the memories but will move forward in life with a positive attitude. They will allow these memories to define the men they have become today. They are remarkable.

The synopsis for this book tells very little about the story itself. It is enough to intrigue the reader without giving away the meat of this story. Five men share a deep bond that will keep their lives linked together forever. It is a story of a living life to it’s fullest. It is a story of letting go of the past and embracing new beginnings. It is a story of having A Little Faith.

A Little Faith is not your typical romance that features one couple. It features six extraordinary men. They are all leading characters in their own right. They all have their own story to tell and it intertwines together. As their story unfolds , other characters are introduced into their circle. The reader will meet three exceptional women and one steely man that is honored to be their friend. Lost love will be found once again. The possibilities of new love are on the horizon. New friends are coming into their lives. They will all experience the true meaning of love and friendship.

Each man has their cross to bare. Each carries their cross differently. They use humor, silence, and over protectiveness to deflect their pain. They lean on on another. They will always have each other’s back no matter what happens in life.

Emma James did a brilliant job writing this book. A Little Faith is a story with multiple layers. Each chapter is written from a different character’s POV. The story flows beautifully. This story illustrates the past and the present with perfection. Each character is vibrant. The prologue had me hooked within the first few paragraphs. I was mesmerized and could not put the book down. Some would say it ended on a cliffhanger but I would define it as an intermission. The complete story is going to unfold in several books. The Men of Ocean Beach are demanding their story be told thoroughly. They are demanding that they all get their happily ever after together.

I was captivated by their story. I became invested in each character. When I finished the last page of A Little Faith I had to immediately download Hope Is Lost, the second book in the Men of Ocean Beach series.

A Little Faith by Emma James is phenomenal.