Cover Reveal: Cartel by Lili Saint Germain-Cartel-Book 1

Posted on 09/05/2014 by shellbellereads

Cartel

Cartel Seriea- Book 1

By Lili St. Germain

Release Date: February 1st, 2015

Synopsis

The first full length Gypsy Brothers novel from the smash hit author Lili St Germain.

How much is a life worth?

I grew up in Colombia, the daughter of a wealthy drug lord. I lived a life of extravagance, until one day a drug run went horribly wrong and everything came crashing down around us.

I was given away. A payment for a debt. The Gypsy Brothers Motorcycle Club became my new owners, and I did everything I could to survive.

But falling in love with the man who owned me wasn’t part of the plan…

Pre- Order: Amazon/ ITunes

Other Books by Lili Saint Germain

Gypsy Brothers

Seven Sons – Free-Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Six Brothers- Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Five Miles- Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Four Score- Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Three Years- Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITune

Two Roads- Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Coming September 23, 2014

One Love- Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Coming November 9, 2014

Lili writes dark romance, suspense and paranormal stories. Her serial novel, Seven Sons, was released in early 2014, with the following books in the series to be released in quick succession. Lili quit corporate life to focus on writing and so far is loving every minute of it. Her other loves in life include her gorgeous husband and beautiful daughter, good coffee, Tarantino movies and spending hours on Pinterest.

She loves to read almost as much as she loves to write.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Pinterest

ARC Review: In His Sights by Jo Davis- The Sugarland Blues Series- Book 3

Posted on 09/02/2014 by shellbellereads

In His Sights

Sugarland Blues Series- Book 3

By Jo Davis

Synopsis

From the author of Hot Pursuit and the Firefighters of Station Five novels…

When a dangerous criminal targets those whom Sugarland detective Chris Ford holds dear, nothing will stop him from hunting down his man.…

Chris is one the best and brightest at the Sugarland PD, but lately a mysterious illness has him struggling to get through the day. When his symptoms land him in the care of brilliant and sexy Dr. Robyn Lassiter, Chris realizes that he is the latest victim in a rash of mysterious poisonings in the area—most of them fatal. Figuring out who’s causing the fatal outbreak has become a very personal—and deadly—race against time.

Despite battling her own personal demons and painful past, Dr. Robyn Lassiter can’t fight her attraction to her new patient. But as she struggles to help Chris track down the sick mind behind the deaths, she’s not only at risk of losing her heart but of falling headlong into a lethal plot that could take her life.…

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Michel’s Review

ARC provided by the Publisher, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.

In His Sights is the third book in the Sugarland Blues series by Jo Davis. It can be read as a stand alone novel or in series order.

This series is one of the best romantic suspense series I have read. Jo Davis creates strong, passionate characters that will do whatever it takes to uphold the law, solve the case, and serve justice. She adds the right amount of high octane action and a sensual romance that will have the readers fanning themselves. The plot is well delivered and keeps the readers on the edge of their seats.

Sugarland Detective Chris Ford has recovered from his injuries he sustained during a previous case. He’s ready to get back to work and back to his normal daily activities, including his activities with the ladies. The only problem is he seems to be suffering from some kind of illness that is affecting his return to normalcy. He doesn’t seem to be getting better. His symptoms are getting worse and are becoming more debilitating.

Dr. Robyn Lassiter moved to Sugarland with her daughter after the death of her husband. She has thrown herself into her work and raising her daughter. After noticing similar symptoms causing the deaths in several patients, she has become suspicious. When Chris Ford starts displaying the same kind of symptoms that caused the deaths of other patients, she is determined to find the connection. It is looking more like someone is poisoning people. Together the two will have to find out if it is random or connected. They will have to find the source of the poison as well as the source behind it.

The attraction between the two just escalates both their blood pressure. Chris will use all his determination and skill that he uses on the job to convince Robyn she needs more than her work and daughter in her life. The chemistry between these two is combustible.

In His Sights is a story packed full of suspense and danger. The ending will have the readers on the edge of their seats. This life threatening, passionate case will be solved with a heartwarming ending that is exactly what Chris had In His Sights.

Jo Davis delivered another fantastic book. She is the queen of romantic suspense and erotic romance. I highly recommend In His Sights and The Sugarland Blues series.

The Sugarland Blue Series

Armed and Dangerous

When Detective Shane Ford, Sugarland’s favorite man in blue, and Juvenile Detective Daisy Callahan work together on a dangerous case, they find themselves ignoring their professional instincts and falling hard. But when their romance gets in the way of their job—and puts both their lives in jeopardy—Shane vows to break things off. But as they’re about to discover, this kind of steamy passion is impossible to deny…

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Sworn To Protect

Sugarland loves their men in blue, especially Detective Shane Ford. But Shane’s mission to protect and to serve has just gotten personal….

Detective Shane Ford, Sugarland’s favorite cop, has been blindsided by the sudden death of his best friend, NFL star Brad Cooper, and by becoming the legal guardian of Brad’s son, Drew—a bitter, angry sixteen-year-old with a dangerous secret. Shane is determined to pry the truth from Drew, but he manages only to alienate him—and winds up going head-to-head with Juvenile Officer Daisy Callahan, whose job is to protect the teen’s best interests.

Shane has always been drawn to Daisy’s beauty and strength, but he’s determined not to allow their intense attraction to interfere with his duty ever again. It’s a vow that will prove difficult to keep, as the realities of Shane and Daisy’s blossoming love and their growing bond with the grieving teen propel Shane headlong into danger for the new family he has sworn to protect.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Hot Pursuit

In Sugarland, Detective Taylor Kayne is always ready with quick wit and a quicker smile. But he’s about to meet a woman who will make him want to take his sweet time….

Taylor is a laid-back, smart-aleck kind of lawman. He’s also a man’s man, as well as every woman’s private fantasy. But years ago, he was part of a botched hostage situation that ended with him being hailed as a tough-as-nails hero—even though the pain, fear, and shame from that terrible day still haunt his every moment.

Cara Evans couldn’t care less about Taylor’s pain. In the moment he became a so-called hero, she lost someone she dearly loved. Yet neither of them is prepared for the instant, undeniable attraction that flares between them—or the danger that’s soon hot on their heels.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Author Bio:

National Bestselling author Jo Davis is best known for her popular Firefighters of Station Five series written as Jo Davis, and her dark, sexy paranormal series Alpha Pack, written as J.D. Tyler. PRIMAL LAW, the first book in her Alpha Pack series, is the winner of the National Reader’s Choice Award in Paranormal. She’s also been a multiple finalist in the Colorado Romance Writers Award of Excellence, a finalist for the Bookseller’s Best Award, has captured the HOLT Medallion Award of Merit, and has been a two-time nominee for the Australian Romance Readers Award in romantic suspense.

Jo’s books regularly appear on the Neilson Bookscan, Barnes and Noble, BooksOnBoard, and Amazon bestseller lists, among others.

Jo is currently at work on the SUGARLAND BLUE series, a spin-off of her Firefighters of Station Five series, and her new contemporary romance novella trilogy TORN BETWEEN TWO LOVERS, scheduled to debut in October 2013 with RAW. She’s also publishing a new FBI series, ARMED AND DEADLY, set to debut in Fall 2013 with ONE LAST KISS. Jo lives in Texas with her two kids and a cute Boston terrier.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

ARC Review: Keep Me Safe by Maya Banks- The Slow Burn Series-Book 1

Posted on 09/02/2014 by shellbellereads

Keep Me Safe

The Slow Burn Series- Book 1

By Maya Banks

Synopsis

A sizzling story of a woman who risks her life and her heart to find a wealthy man’s missing sister—the first novel in a sexy new romantic suspense series from #1 New York Times bestselling author Maya Banks

When Caleb Devereaux’s younger sister is kidnapped, this scion of a powerful and wealthy family turns to an unlikely source for help: a beautiful and sensitive woman with a gift for finding answers others cannot.

While Ramie can connect to victims and locate them by feeling their pain, her ability comes with a price. Every time she uses it, it costs her a piece of herself. Helping the infuriatingly attractive and impatient Caleb successfully find his sister nearly destroys her. Even though his sexual intensity draws her like a magnet, she needs to get as far away from him as she can.

Deeply remorseful for the pain he’s caused, Caleb is determined to make things right. But just when he thinks Ramie’s vanished forever, she reappears. She’s in trouble and she needs his help. Now, Caleb will do risk everything to protect her—including his heart. . . .

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Michel’s Review

2 Stars

ARC provided by the Publisher, via Edelweiss, in exchange for an honest review.

Keep Me Safe by Maya Banks was not what I was hoping for or expecting from a writer of her caliber.

Keep Me Safe is book one in the new romantic suspense trilogy The Slow Burn Series. This series features a group of brothers running a security firm and trying to find their kidnapped sister. Caleb Devereaux is determined to bring psychic in to help their search.

Ramie has a gift that wears on her soul. Once Caleb tricks Ramie into finding his sister’s location their story begins. They are mutually attracted to one another but continually deny their feelings.

As the story unfolds it does not seem believable. Caleb has that Alpha Male attitude and when he meets Ramie he instantly wants to protect her. While Ramie wants to be strong her weaknesses have a way of taking over her personality.

Even though this book was written from duo POV I found it very repetitive. The dialogue continued revolving in circles and kept the story from progressing. I also found that quite a bit of the plot, the characters, and series basis was borrowed from Maya’s other series. The brothers were similar to KGI, the security firm again similar to KGI, fortified mansion similar to KGI, Caleb’s personality similar to Burn character, and the secondary characters had familiar traits as well. Her leading female character appeared much more wishy- washy than her other leading female characters. Both leading characters in this series seem to fall flat and their personalities did not jump off the pages. The story moved at a slow pace and I found myself speed reading it rather than absorbing it. The repetitive dialogue spoiled the book. As I closed this book I was grateful to be finished and found no desire to read the next two books in this series.

I think Maya’s publishers/editors did her a disservice by allowing this book to be published. They should of demanded rewrites and better pacing. It feels like the publisher was banking on Maya’s excellent reputation and ability to sell books.

I have read all of Maya Banks books and I have to honestly say that the last three published books were subpar. She is an excellent writer and always delivers a good book. I am very sad to write this review.

Author Bio:
&nbsp:Maya Banks lives in Texas with her husband, three children and assortment of pets. When she’s not writing, she can be found hunting, fishing or playing poker.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Release Day Blitz + Review: Hard To Hold On To by Laura Kaye- Hard Ink Series-Book 2.5

Posted on 08/19/2014 by shellbellereads

We are so excited to bring you the Release Day Launch for Laura Kaye’s HARD TO HOLD ON TO! HARD TO HOLD ON TO is a Contemporary Romance filled with suspense and is a novella in the Hard Ink Series, published by Avon Impulse (an imprint of HarperCollins). And if this novella weren’t hot enough on its own, Laura is donating 100% of her proceeds from the first two weeks’ sales to a national non-profit organization that assists veterans transitioning back to civilian life!!

Amazon | Amazon.ca | Amazon UK | B&N | iTunes | Kobo

EXCERPT:

Easy tugged down the covers and gestured for Jenna to get in. She chose the side that would allow her to lie on the uninjured side of her face.

“After what you’ve been through, I don’t want to do anything that makes you feel uncomfortable,” Easy said.

Propping herself on an elbow, Jenna shook her head. “You won’t. You’re the—” She blanched as if she hadn’t meant to say whatever she’d nearly said.

Which made Easy need to know. He crawled on the bed as if lured by the words. “Finish. That. Sentence.”

She eased back onto the pillow, red hair sprawling around her shoulders like silk, and stared up at him. And it took everything Easy had not to settle himself on top of her and tease the words out with his hands and tongue.

“The only one who makes me feel safe,” she whispered.

Satisfaction humming through him, Easy turned and stretched out on his back. Because if he kept looking at her while she was looking at him like that, he might not be able to restrain himself from having what he wanted. A taste. A chance.

None of which she was in any shape for. And given the shitstorm in his head, probably neither was he.

“Good. That’s good,” he murmured, blowing out a long breath. Damn, he was tired. Not just because he hadn’t slept much the night before. But because of the size of the load he’d been shouldering for the past twelve-plus months. If he could only figure out how to put it down. He scrubbed his hands over his face, wishing he could shake himself out of this fucking slump.

If Rimes were here, he’d kick Easy’s ass for being such a morose motherfucker.

But he wasn’t here. Which was the damn problem in a nutshell.

He dropped his arms to the bed and peered over at Jenna.

She lay on her side facing him, hand tucked under her chin, not looking the least bit settled or relaxed.

“Whatchu need?”

“You.” She spoke the word without any hesitation, any doubt, any seeming self-consciousness.

“Have me, Jenna. Whatever you want,” he said, his cock stirring no matter how hard he reined himself in.

Holding his gaze, she moved closer until her head rested on his shoulder and her body trapped his arm between them. And, suddenly, she wasn’t fucking close enough.

“Here,” he whispered, lifting his arm and inviting her closer. And damn if his heart didn’t soar when she fitted herself the rest of the way against him, her face against his throat, her breasts against his ribs, her leg curling up onto his thigh.

He wasn’t sure whose sigh was louder. All Easy knew was that this was the first time in more than a year he didn’t feel alone. Wrapping his arm around her, he couldn’t resist squeezing her in just a little closer.

“Thank you,” she whispered, her breath ticklish against his neck.

He laced his fingers between hers where they rested on his chest. “I gotchu. You just close your eyes and know I’m here.”

Did you have a favorite line? Thanks for reading!

About Hard To Hold On To:

Edward “Easy” Cantrell knows better than most the pain of not being able to save those he loves—which is why he is not going to let Jenna Dean out of his sight. He may have just met her, but Jenna’s the first person to make him feel alive since that devastating day in the desert more than a year ago.

Jenna has never met anyone like Easy. She can’t describe how he makes her feel–and not just because he saved her life. No, the stirrings inside her reach far beyond gratitude.

As the pair are thrust together while chaos reigns around them, they both know one thing: the things in life most worth having are the hardest to hold on to.

Hard to Hold On To on Goodreads

Michel’s Review

Hard To Hold On To by Laura Kaye is a novella in the highly acclaimed Hard Ink series. This novella picks up where Hard As You Can ended. It is the story that plays on the connection between Jenna Dean and Edward ‘Easy’ Cantrell established in the previous book. Both are damaged souls that understand the pain that their past experiences have left very deep emotional scars. For Easy, it is his survivor guilt and the anguish that goes along with that guilt. For Jenna it was the kidnapping.

Together they help each other through the pain. They learn to climb out of the darkness together. The give each other the emotional security each one needs individually. Easy will learn to reach out to others and share his feelings that darken his soul.

Together Jenna and Easy find a love that is stronger than their demons. They find friendship, self worth, and the importance of leaning on others in their darkest days.

Laura Kaye delivered a highly emotional novella that packed more of a punch than most full length novels do. She handled some very dark issues with the great care.

The proceeds from the first two weeks of sales for this novella will go to the Wounded Warrior project. Not only will you get an unforgettable story, you will also be contributing to a great cause.

** Thank you to the men and women that serve in the U.S. military. Thank you for protecting our nation and sacrificing your personal needs and family so that we can embrace the freedoms our nation upholds. **

Other Books in the Hard Ink Series:

Hard As It Gets

Hard As You Can

Hard to Come By (11/25/14)

Hard to Be Good (3/10/15)

Untitled (7/28/15)

Praise for the Hard Ink Series:

For Hard As You Can:

“TOP PICK! There is a sinister and desperate edge to this tale that will keep readers glued to their seats. Kaye has dark romantic suspense nailed!” ~ RT Book Reviews Magazine

“Hard As You Can is another five star read. The characters Ms. Kaye has created are wonderfully broken and the drama is gritty, but the burgeoning romance and the tight-knitted relationship of the team leaves you with a sense of redemption. A must read series!” ~San Francisco Book Review

For Hard As It Gets:

“Edgy, sexy and full of suspense! A great read from a great new author!” ~ #1 NYT Bestselling Author J.R. Ward

“Sizzling romance… The intriguing tattoo parlor and military background will appeal to fans of Suzanne Brockmann and Lindsay McKenna.” ~Publishers Weekly Review

“Kaye’s depiction of sexual tension and her sex scenes are masterful and this will appeal to fans of Maya Banks’ KGI and Julia Ann Walker’s Black Knight’s series.” ~Booklist

About Laura Kaye:

Laura is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of over a dozen books in contemporary and paranormal romance. Growing up, Laura’s large extended family believed in the supernatural, and family lore involving angels, ghosts, and evil-eye curses cemented in Laura a life-long fascination with storytelling and all things paranormal. She lives in Maryland with her husband, two daughters, and cute-but-bad dog, and appreciates her view of the Chesapeake Bay every day.

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ARC Review: Secrets and Sins: Chayot: A Secrets and Sins Novel

Posted on 08/15/2014 by shellbellereads

Secrets and Sins

Chayot: A Secrets and Sins Novel

By Naima Simone

Synopsis:

A thrilling suspense from Entangled’s Ignite imprint…

Some sins refuse to let go.

Six months after concert pianist Aslyn Jericho survives an attack at the hands of an obsessed fan, she is still trying to resume a normal life, despite the paralyzing fears that have stolen her ability to play and perform. Enter her gorgeous and mysterious neighbor with news that threatens to send her spiraling back into her nightmares. Her stalker has returned. And he wants Aslyn.

Months after security specialist Chayot Gray’s darkest secret was exposed to the world, he’s struggling to cope with the fallout. Shame and guilt threaten to consume him, and he longs for the anonymous, numb existence he’s known for two decades. Then he discovers a masked figure lurking outside his neighbor’s home. The pain-filled shadows darkening Aslyn’s eyes call to him, and her loveliness stirs a desire he didn’t know existed. Now Chay must conquer his inner-demons in order to save her from a madman determined to finish the job he started…

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Kelley’s Review

This read gripped me from the very beginning. I actually dreamt about Chayot Grey.

Aslyn Jericho is an amazing concert pianist that has survivied a terrible attack by a stalker and is trying to recover while hidden away Massachusetts. When a mysterious man shows up lurking around the condo she is staying in, it shakes her to the core. Luckly for Aslyn Jericho her sexy neighbor is the one and only Chayot Grey owner of Liberty Security Services.

The sparks fly immediately between Chay and Aslyn. Aslyn has never felt that sizzle when being around a man before and Chay seems to get her panties drenched with just one look. Chay is seriously attracted to Aslyn. He is a big fan of her music but knows that he is not the committment type and he believes that is what Aslyn deserves.

However, when Aslyn’s life is put in danger, and Chay is the only one who can protect her, all bets are off and Chayot finds himself falling hard and fast, but will it be all for naught? When Aslyn finds out the secret that Chay has kept burried for all of these years will she find him revolting or return the love that he desperately deserves.

Naima did a great job with character development and the plot twists and turns kept flipping the pages. This book is sinfully sexy with the just the right amount of suspense to keep you on your toes.

Author Bio:

I was born the daughter of a sharecropper… Okay, maybe not. But I am the daughter of a pastor from whom I inherited my love of romance. The man can preach a mean Song of Solomon! (There’s that plug, Daddy! You can pay me later!)

Although my first book starred a cucumber named Fred, my first romance came several years later in the seventh grade, when I wrote myself as a heroine opposite Ralph Tresvant from New Edition. Through the power of my pen and imagination, Ralph took one look across a crowded stadium, met my dark, mysterious gaze, fell passionately in love, and serenaded me in front of millions of fans. Out of all the girls in the world, he chose me! And of course, we lived happily ever after–once we had the inevitable fight, aka black moment, and made up with a passionate declaration of love and fidelity. This same story reincarnated itself many times over the years: with Donnie Wahlberg from New Kids on the Block, Brad Pitt, Denzel Washington, and as recently as last night, Vin Diesel.

Though the characters have changed, my love of love has endured. Shaping the lives of unique men and women who experience the first hungry bites of lust, the dizzying heights of passion, and the tender, healing heat of love–nothing compares to it. Except maybe discovering new material for love scenes with my husband, the head of Research & Development!

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Cover Reveal: A Peek Beyond the Consequences by Aleatha Romig

Posted on 08/13/2014 by shellbellereads

Title: A Peek Beyond the Consequences

Author: Aleatha Romig

Genre: Dark Erotica Romance

Release Date: September 1st 2014

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Synopsis:

Anthony Rawlings is a man most women love to hate or hate to love. Domineering yet caring, demanding yet sensual, he’s truly an enigma, but can he be the one Claire needs and deserves? Will she ever truly find happiness with the man who stole her life but gave her the world? For a glimpse into the future, take a Peek Beyond the Consequences, a novella.

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Teaser:

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About the Author:

Aleatha Romig is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, who has been voted #1 “New Author to Read” on Goodreads, July 2012 – Present!

Aleatha has lived most of her life in Indiana, growing up in Mishawaka, graduating from Indiana University, and currently living south of Indianapolis. Together with her high-school sweetheart and husband of twenty-seven years, they’ve raised three children. Before she became a full-time author, she worked days as a dental hygienist and spent her nights writing. Now, when she’s not imagining mind-blowing twists and turns, she likes to spend her time with her family and friends. Her pastimes include exercising, reading, and creating heroes/anti-heroes who haunt your dreams!
Aleatha enjoys traveling, especially when there is a beach involved. In 2011, she had the opportunity to visit Sydney, Australia, to visit her daughter studying at the University of Wollongong. Her dream is to travel to places in her novels and around the world.
CONSEQUENCES, her first novel, was released August 2011, by Xlibris Publishing. Then in October of 2012, Ms. Romig re-released CONSEQUENCES as an indie author. TRUTH, the sequel, was released October 30, 2012, and CONVICTED, the third in the series, was released October 8, 2013. Unexpectedly, the fourth book of the Consequences series came to life with REVEALED: THE MISSING YEARS. It is the fourth full-length novel in the series. It explores the missing years in CONVICTED that previously were only mentioned, as well as a complete character glossary and timeline. REVEALED was released May 20, 2014.
Aleatha also wrote reading companions for the Consequences Series. BEHIND HIS EYES CONSEQUENCES (Book 1.5) and BEHIND HIS EYES TRUTH (Book 2.5) are currently available for those times and scenes when the readers asked, “What was he thinking?” These companions also contain never before released behind-the-scenes scenes.
Aleatha is a “Published Author’s Network” member of the Romance Writers of America and represented by Danielle Egan-Miller of Brown and Miller Literary Associates.

::: Connect With the Author :::

Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Amazon Author Page

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Release Day Blitz + 6- Star Review + Giveaway: Captured by Jasinda and Jack Wilder

Posted on 08/12/2014 by shellbellereads

Captured

World of Wounded Novels

By Jasinda and Jack Wilder

Synopsis:

You go into combat, you fear death. It’s what keeps you careful, keeps you alive. I’ve faced death more times than I can count. I’ve taken bullets. I’ve taken lives.

But nothing can prepare me for the soul-crushing terror of being captured.

***

I married a Marine. I knew the risks. Every time my husband shipped out, I knew there was a chance he wouldn’t come back. But Thomas always did. Always. Then one day two officers in full dress uniform knocked on my door and shattered my world.

How do you keep going when you lose what made life worth living?

***This is a full length, stand-alone contemporary romance, set in the world of WOUNDED**

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Michel’s Review

***6 STAR SALUTE ***

*** 2014 FAVORITE READ ***

*** Captured is a POWERFUL Book ***

Jack and Jasinda Wilder deserve a standing ovation for Captured ! It is a phenomenal reading experience!

Captured is one of those books that will engage all of your sensory factors, emotionally and physically. This book renders every emotion with a poignant, brutally honest insight into the human psyche. The explicit descriptions throughout the book will have the readers feeling the physical pain, the adrenaline highs and lows, the surreal feel of the environmental surroundings from the temperature to the geographical elements, the smells and tastes from those surroundings, and the pure physical joy of the ‘feel good’ moments.

Captured is written from duo POV’s throughout a three-year period. The reader experiences Derek West’s traumatic experience in the war arena and his re- introduction back into society. His journey will touch your soul.

From Reagan Barrett’s POV the readers will experience the emotional chaos that comes from loving a career Marine. They will see the strengths, weaknesses, and heartrending trials loved ones go through on the home front.

Derek and Reagan have traveled an emotionally tortuous road. Their journey is heartbreaking with a multitude of trials and tribulations. Along the journey they will discover the true meaning of love. Their final destination is one of peace and pure happiness.

Captured not only highlights the horrors of the war front, it also spotlights the pure joy of finding love. The sexual chemistry and romance between Derek and Reagan is smoldering.

From the war arena to the home front….one letter will touch the soul.

This one letter will

Give Hope
Give Peace In Death
Motivate one to Live
Bring the dawning of new life
Evoke guilt
Demonstrate the power of forgiveness
Bring people together to form a new family unit
Give second chances
Reconnect old friendships
Reaffirm Life

One letter will touch many lives.

The written word is powerful!

Captured showcases just how powerful the written word is!

Jack and Jasinda Wilder have Captured that power!

Kelley’s Review

Your heart, mind, body, and soul will be Captured…

Wow! What an amazing read. I could not put it down. Jasinda and Jack truely captured what life is like after love, loss, heartache, and pain. The lives that Marine Corps families live are not easy. Marines are deployed everyday and their wives do everything they can to show them the love and support they need, while keeping themselves so busy that they don’t have to think about the dangers their husbands are facing. I know what this feels like because I was the wife of a Marine and it is the hardest thing I have ever had to do in my entire life. He was deployed for 6-months while I went to school and worked three jobs to keep my mind off of what he was facing. The letters are the one thing that kept me going. I wrote to him every other day and when I would get a letter back it would be like time stood still and I would read those letters over and over again until the ink began to fade. Every night before I went to bed I read the letters and every morning when I woke up. I needed him with me and that is how I made it work. The letters in this story are heart-wrenching and full of love and devotion. Jasinda and Jack did their research and gave us something so beautiful, and so real that is brought tears to my eyes. It took me back 20 years ago when I was writing those letters. But, enough about me.

Reagan and Derek are two lonely souls that have been ravaged by war and loss. Both are dealing with shell shock. Reagan just can’t do it again. She can’t take the risk that her heart with be irrevocably broken and Derek is seriously wounded mentally after being a prisoner of war. He is skittish and easily startled. The journey to recovery for Derek is painful, emotionally and physically. His return to civilian life is toilsome as he has to conquer his demons everyday.

Reagan Barrett is tough. She is a widow and has been running her husband’s family farm on her own for the past ten years, all while being a single mom. She has the amazing support of her neighbors Hank and Ida who have become her extended family. Reagan has buried the idea that she will ever fall in love again.

When Derek West shows up on her doorstep all of the feelings she has buried start to come to life and Derek ignites a passion in her that she never knew existed. The chemistry between Derek and Reagan is off the charts, HOT.

Will these two broken souls be able to recover from all the wounds that war has inflicted upon them and find their happlily ever after? You will have to read Captured to find out.

Thank you Jasinda and Jack for a truly amazing story full of love, and loss and giving others a glimpse into the life of a Marine Corps family. Marines go in first and are the last to leave. They are tough and strong and their wives are amazing women who are selfless and give love easily to their husbands and others around them. Captured is a must read for anyone that wants to know what it is like to be a Marine Corps wife.

CAPTURED will show you:

Courage
Amazing Grace
Perseverance
Turmoil
Unity
Return
Everlasting Love
Determination

*** On a personal note, We want to thank the men and women of the Armed Forces for serving and protecting our nation. We would also like to thank their families and loved ones for enduring life on the home front while their loved ones selflessly serve and protect our country. You are all true heroes in every way.

Author Bio:

NEW YORK TIMES, USA TODAY, WALL STREET JOURNAL and international bestselling author Jasinda Wilder is a Michigan native with a penchant for titillating tales about sexy men and strong women. Her bestselling titles include ALPHA, STRIPPED, WOUNDED, and the #1 Amazon and international bestseller FALLING INTO YOU. You can find her on her farm in Northern Michigan with her husband, author Jack Wilder, her five children and menagerie of animals.

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Release Day Blitz + Review- Dust To Dust by Karina Halle- The Experiment In Terror Series-Book 9- 6 Stars

Posted on 08/11/2014 by shellbellereads

Dust To Dust

Experiment In Terror Series- Book 9

By Karina Halle

Synopsis:

The dramatic conclusion to the Experiment in Terror Series.

Perry Palomino and Dex Foray.

On their own, they’re uniquely brilliant. Together, they’re an unstoppable team.

Until now.

Because after everything the duo has encountered, they haven’t come across an evil quite like this. An evil that has been years in the making, an evil that will stop at nothing until they, and everyone they care for, are destroyed.

Dex and Perry’s love has survived a multitude of sins.

But can it survive the end?

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

The Experiment In Terror Series

1. Darkhouse – Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

2. Red Fox – Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

2.5. The Benson – Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

3. Dead Sky Morning– Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

4. Lying Season– Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

5. On Demon Wings– Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

5.5. Old Blood– Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

5.7. The Dex Files– Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

6. Into The Hollow– Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

6.5. And With Madness Comes The Light– Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

7. Come Alive– Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

8. Ashes To Ashes– Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

9. Dust To Dust– Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Michel’s Review

At long last the highly anticipated grand finale in The Experiment In Terror series is released!

Dust To Dust by Karina Halle is brilliant! It is the perfect ending for the enthralling, bone chilling, hair raising, frightful Experiment In Terror series. This series has taken the readers on an unforgettable journey. The adventures and perils that Dex Foray and Perry Polomino have faced, battled, and survived have astounded every reader. Not only have Dex and Perry faced off every kind of evil and supernatural being, they have made self discoveries, acknowledged their weaknesses, faced their fears, become stronger individuals, accepted their gifts, and valued every moment, good and bad. Their adventure has made them both better people.

We have witnessed Perry Palomino go from an introverted, self doubting, somewhat delusional girl to a strong woman willing to fight for those she loves. She has become a powerhouse within herself.

We have watched Dex Foray change from a crass, thoughtless, self serving jerk into an honorable man. He has accepted his gifts, opened his heart, let go of his past, and learned to love deeply.

The Experiment In Terror series is not just a series in the horror genre. It is a romance series.
We have witnessed Dex and Perry go from strangers to reluctant partners that led to a strong friendship with mutual respect. Along the way they found a deep love that will exist in life and death. No one can tear them apart, not even the supernatural.

Dex and Perry have survived evil in many forms. They have traveled many miles. They thought they had faced the worst kind of terror and made their peace. But like everything in life, their fortitude will be tested once again. They will have to go full circle, back to the beginning where everything began.

Dust To Dust brings Dex and Perry to New York City. This is where it all began for Dex. This is where the Palomino women became connected with the O’Shea clan. This is where the ultimate evil has touched all of their lives. They will have to face off this ultimate evil. It is war.

Every war has casualties. Every war has fatalities. Every war leaves wounds and scars that remain long after the battle is fought. But for the ones that survive the war , they will carry these scars and the memories very close to the heart.

Dust To Dust is a frightful battle for life and love.

I am very sad to see The Experiment In Terror series end but am also very satisfied on how the ending played out.

Karina Halle is a brilliant writer. Her stories draw the reader into the characters world. We experience every adventure, every physical feeling, every emotional reaction, and every moment. Our sensory system goes into overload while reading these books. Our emotional side sympathizes with each of the characters emotions. The reader truly becomes completely involved. I can easily see The Experiment In Terror being made into a mini TV series like American Horror Story or Supernatural. It would stand out among these types of shows because of the powerful romance between Dex Foray and Perry Palomino.

Karina Halle I applaud you for the excellent delivery of The Experiment In Terror series. It is one of my all time favorite series.

Dex and Perry will haunt my dreams and everyday life. They will live on long after the final eulogy in Dust To Dust.

*** The Experiment In Terror Series is a 6 STAR Series***

Robin’s Review

The ninth and final novel of the Experiment in Terror series is Dust to Dust. It’s been a long and crazy ride for author Karina Halle. She has done a remarkable job keeping this lengthy series fresh and exciting when many authors would have struggled to do the same. Halle is wonderfully creative when it comes to writing in the horror romance genre. She has one hell of a vivid imagination and crazy talent for putting her horror scenes to paper. Ghosts. Demons. Haunted houses. Spooky sanatoriums. Zombies. Halle has written about all of these, but nothing can prepare readers for what she has planned in Dust to Dust. If you are a fan of the Experiment in Terror series, you are in for a real treat!

Throughout this series, Halle has taken readers to an abundance of haunted locations. Dex Foray and Perry Palomino have paired up to film episodes for their internet show Experiment in Terror at the following locations: a lighthouse on the Pacific coast of Oregon; the deserts of Red Fox, New Mexico; deserted D’Arcy Island, located just off the coast of Vancouver, British Columbia; Seattle, Washington; Portland, Oregon; the wilds of the Canadian Rockies; the haunted French Quarter of New Orleans, Louisiana; and the creepy Sea Crest Sanatorium in Gary, Oregon. In Dust to Dust, Halle brings her series to a conclusion where it all began for Dex Foray – in a brownstone townhouse located in New York City.

Dex and Perry have been in many frightening and dangerous situations, always managing to escape by the skin of their teeth. Everything they have experienced since meeting each other in that lighthouse has lead up to the dramatic conclusion of this series. In Dust to Dust, they each find themselves racing against time, fighting the ultimate evil in the battle of their lives. Dex’s long, lost brother Michael has been very busy planning to exploit their weaknesses, and this time the stakes are much higher with Maximus Jacobs and the entire Palomino family directly involved. Evil is found in many forms in this series, but expect the worst in Dust to Dust.

If you follow the writing of Karina Halle and think you may have seen it all, just wait until you see what she has in store for you in Dust to Dust. Expect gnawing worry. Tears of sadness. Interesting revelations. Unimaginable monsters. Heart palpitations. Fear and shock. Devastation. Repaired relationships. Love and tenderness. Expect the unexpected! And look for plenty of new “Dexisms” – hilarious, laugh out loud quotes which could only come from the mouth of Dex Foray!

In summary, I found this concluding novel informative, frightening, sad, but full of love. I found myself glued to the pages as I learned more about Dex Foray and his family history. Karina Halle lays the truth out for her readers, so be sure to pay attention. And frightening? Two things had me full of anxiety: a cloven-hoof demon with a busy agenda and the brownstone townhouse where Dex lived as a child. I wouldn’t want to spoil the fun for readers with anything more than that. I was full of sadness at times while reading Dust to Dust, and not just because this is the final novel of this beloved series. There are moments you will feel sadness, too. And there is so much love between Dex and Perry that it will fill your heart with happiness – just wait until you read the epilogue.

In short, Karina Halle has wonderfully brought her series full-circle with this concluding novel. Her writing is sensational and full of descriptive details which make you feel as if you are participating in the story. If you have never read, or even heard of, the Experiment in Terror series, please do yourself a favor and consider reading Darkhouse. This series is strangely addictive, and the novels only get better as the series progresses. As for Dust to Dust? Karina Halle has earned my 5-star rating!

Author Bio:

With her USA Today Bestselling The Artists Trilogy published by Grand Central Publishing, numerous foreign publication deals, and self-publishing success with her Experiment in Terror series, Vancouver-born Karina Halle is a true example of the term “Hybrid Author.” Though her books showcase her love of all things dark, sexy and edgy, she’s a closet romantic at heart and strives to give her characters a HEA…whenever possible.

Karina holds a screenwriting degree from Vancouver Film School and a Bachelor of Journalism from TRU. Her travel writing, music reviews/interviews and photography have appeared in publications such as Consequence of Sound, Mxdwn and GoNomad Travel Guides. She currently lives on an island on the coast of British Columbia where she’s preparing for the zombie apocalypse with her fiancé and rescue pup.

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ARC Review: Lay It Down by Cara McKenna- Desert Dogs- Book 1

Posted on 08/06/2014 by shellbellereads

Lay It Down

Desert Dogs – Book 1

Cara McKenna

Synopsis

First in the exciting new Desert Dog series, starring hot and sexy bikers in the Southwest…

Backbreaking days, wild nights, and the hard hum of steel between your thighs…

That’s a life well lived, according to the Desert Dogs—four friends who call Fortuity, Nevada, their badlands home.

Vince Grossier is the self-crowned outlaw king around here. But when Fortuity’s slick new mayor invites a shady casino development to town, the invaders’ cutthroat takeover tactics quickly turn deadly. With police turning a suspiciously blind eye, it’s up to the locals to fight back, and Vince is on the front line. The pretty photographer hired by the developers might be the key to infiltrating the enemy. And a temptation too good to pass up.

Finally free of a controlling ex, Kim Paget’s not looking to be taken for a ride—not on the back of some tattooed roughneck’s bike and definitely not in his bed. But when she finds evidence that her bosses are rattlesnake-dangerous, Kim must entrust her safety to the man who threatens danger of a whole different kind.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Michel’s Review

*** 3.5 Stars ***

I was really excited when I received the ARC for Lay It Down by Cara McKenna. I have been reading her books for quite some time and she always delivers a fantastic story and red hot romance. I haven’t read a book from her that I didn’t like. She is diverse in plot, subjects, characters, and sensuality. I was very excited to see her starting a Motorcycle Club series. Lay It Down did not disappoint. The characters were fantastic, both the main characters and secondary characters. The plot was quite different than most MC books. She blended the plot, the MC world, and romance with finesse.

Lay It Down starts with a murder mystery. Vince starts investigating the murder of his long time friend, Deputy Alex Dunn. He meets Kim, a photographer for Sunnyside, the site of a future casino. She quickly becomes involved in helping Vince solve the mystery of his friend’s murder.

Vince and Kim are instantly attracted to one another even though they don’t have a single thing in common. The investigation opens the doors for them to get to know one another and explore their attraction. As the mystery unravels their relationship becomes more entangled.

I enjoyed the book but it took a little more concentration for me to get deeply involved in the story. But once I finished the book I was very satisfied with the overall story. Also I realized that because this is the first book in the series, it had to lay the ground work for the small town, other characters, and overall direction of this series. I am looking forward to the next book in the Desert Dogs series.

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: Bound To Danger by Katie Reus- Deadly Ops-Book 2

Posted on 08/05/2014 by shellbellereads

Bound To Danger

Deadly Ops- Book 2

By Katie Reus

Synopsis

At a benefit dinner, community activist Maria Cervantes overhears two men plotting a terrorist attack that could rock Miami to its core. But before she can alert authorities, she’s almost killed in a massive explosion—and wakes up in a hospital with no memory of what happened. As the sole survivor of the attack, she is now a person of interest to the NSA—and especially to Agent Cade O’Reilly. Because Maria is the one woman Cade has never been able to forget.

Years ago, they were closer than either was willing to admit—until Cade disappeared when Maria needed him most. Now he’s sticking by her, whether she likes it or not. Because the memories locked inside her mind could hold vital clues to the next attack. Because terrorists want her dead—and because he never wants to let her go again.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Michel’s Review

Looking for excitement, danger, suspense, and steamy hot romance? Bound to Danger by Katie Reus is the ticket. Bound to Danger is the second book in the Deadly Ops series. It can be read as a stand alone novel.

The way Katie Reus writes makes it easy for the reader to jump right into the novel and become absorbed until the very last word. She builds the story with escalating suspense, blazing sexual tension, and a well paced plot. Katie Reus writes with passion and excitement.

Bound to Danger opens with Maria Cervantes attending an elite party to network and get donations for the community youth program she runs. She accidentally overhears a terrorist plot right before an explosion kills several people and leaves her injured with a memory loss. Maria is the only witness alive .The agencies in charge are not sure if she is a victim or a terrorist.

When Cade O’Reilly, NSA operative, ex marine discovers Maria’s name on the list of survivors, he insists on being assigned to the case. He had served with Maria’s brother before his death. He had a strong friendship with Maria before Riel’s death. After Riel died, Cade cut all ties with Maria due to guilt.

Maria is shocked when Cade walks back into her life. Between the conflicted feelings of attraction and feelings of betrayal, Maria is not sure how to deal with Cade. Top off the escalating danger, the hunt for the terrorists, and the multiple enemies, she is living in fear every moment. Cade is well trained, lethal, and quick on his feet. He gives her a sense of safety and reassurance that she will survive this ordeal. But will her heart survive Cade?

Between the suspense, the complex web of enemies, the sexual tension, and sizzling romance, Bound to Danger will not disappoint.

Katie Reus creates memorable characters, a complex plot, and a romantic story. No matter what genre she is writing, she always delivers a powerful book. She has become one of my favorite writers. I highly recommend Bound to Danger.

Author Bio

Katie Reus is the New York Times, USA Today, & IndieReader bestselling author of the Red Stone Security series, the Moon Shifter series and the Deadly Ops series. She fell in love with romance at a young age thanks to books she pilfered from her mom’s stash. Years later she loves reading romance almost as much as she loves writing it. However, she didn’t always know she wanted to be a writer. After changing majors many times, she finally graduated with a degree in psychology. Not long after that she discovered a new love. Writing. She now spends her days writing dark paranormal romance and sexy romantic suspense.

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