New Release with Excerpt and 5 Star Review: Debase by Rachel Van Dyken – Final Book In Eagle Elite Series and First Book in Elite Bratva Brotherhood Series

Posted on 05/01/2019 by shellbellereads

Debase by Rachel Van Dyken

Release Date: April 30, 2019

Debase, the final book in the Eagle Elite Series and the first new book in the Elite Bratva Brotherhood by #1 New York Times Bestselling Author Rachel Van Dyken.

With blood on my hands, I held her.

With death in my soul, I took from her.

With the devil in my heart, I coveted her.

There are many definitions of Hell.

My list was exhaustive, my definitions tragic.

Tonight I was adding something new to the very top.

Girl number six thirty-two.

She arrived on my birthday, the same day, every year, I play Russian Roulette and pull the trigger.

She was my omen.

My end game.

She made it personal.

And for the first time in my life, I gave in.

A virgin mob boss with no soul.

My name is Andrei Petrov.

They call me the devil.

All I want is for the pain to end.

All she wants is for me to share it.

I am the last remaining heir to a dynasty that should burn in Hell.

And my last wish remains for it to die with me.

Download your copy today!

Amazon US: https://amzn.to/2FLoeJc

Amazon Worldwide: mybook.to/Debase

Nook: http://smarturl.it/DebaseBN

AppleBooks: http://smarturl.it/DebaseApple

Kobo: http://smarturl.it/DebaseKobo

Smashwords: http://smarturl.it/DebaseSW

Add to Goodreads: http://bit.ly/2OyE6me

Excerpt:

I slid my tongue into her mouth. I tasted, I took, I was greedy with each kiss. With blood on my hands, I held her.

With death in my soul, I drank from her.

With the devil in my heart, I coveted her.

I wanted closer.

More.

My gloves felt too hot for my hands.

My hands too big to contain the weeping leather as I pulled away from Alice and stared into her big blue eyes.

“You don’t want this,” I whispered.

She bit down on her swollen lip and reached for me, I stood still as her warm hands touched both of my cheeks. “Lie.”

I let out a hiss of air at her touch. “Walk. Away.”

“Kiss me again.”

“I can’t do that.” I needed to stop doing that.

“Can’t or won’t?”

I told myself one more kiss, one more touch. I told myself it would be okay, that I was still in control.

That I was above this.

That no woman had ever owned me.

No woman had ever taken everything.

My chest heaved as I stared at her mouth, unable to move, completely rooted to the floor.

Alice moved her hands to my jeans and slowly unbuttoned them. I didn’t stop her, I needed to fucking stop her, but it was like I’d drank this paralyzing poison from her lips and couldn’t function, could only watch her as my soul floated above my body, mocking my inaction, telling me that this would be the end of me.

The very end.

Letting her in.

Keeping her there.

I would give her everything.

And then I would lose control.

Lose my mind.

Lose my heart.

I would lose.

So would she.

“Alice…” My voice cracked. “I wish…” Her hands stilled on my jeans like she was ready to pull them down. “I can’t. I wish I could. I can’t.”

How could she possibly understand?

How could I explain the gut-wrenching fear of looking in the mirror and knowing that one choice kept me sane. One choice.

And that was sex.

He’d made that choice.

I wouldn’t.

I couldn’t.

I couldn’t trust myself, couldn’t trust it wouldn’t happen to me too, and hurt someone like her.

Someone so very… perfect.

Without blinking, Alice gripped my jeans, indecision etched on every pretty part of her face.

She was beautiful.

So damn beautiful.

I gripped her wrists with my hands and pulled them away from the very real temptation of getting completely naked and sinking into her, feeling her clench around me, her tight heat.

Shit.

I pulled her into my arms, and she rested her head on my shoulder. Just because I couldn’t let her touch me, couldn’t cross that line, didn’t mean I couldn’t make her happy, I would kill to watch her face in the throes of multiple orgasms.

I quickly gripped her by the hips and put her up on the cold granite countertop.

“Andrei what are you doing?” She looked down at me uncertainty in her blue eyes.

I moved my hands to her ass and pulled down the black leggings she’d been wearing, all the way down to her ankles, right along with a pair of lacy underwear that were bright pink, and perfect.

“Andrei?”

“Yes?”

“Seriously, what are you doing?”

I gripped her knees with my hands and then spread them wide. “What’s it look like I’m doing?” I smirked. “I’m feasting.”

Her eyes widened.

Never underestimate a virgin with an extremely vivid imagination and heightened sexual appetite.

I wasn’t a fucking monk.

I would like to think I knew more than most men, because I’d seen it all, watched it, inadvertently studied it.

If someone gave me a diagram of a woman, I could point out over twenty-two ways to get her off — with my tongue, a feather, my fingers, take your pick.

“You don’t have to—” She let out a gasp, gripping the edge of the granite, turning her hands white.

I chuckled darkly against her right thigh and bit. “I’m sorry, what was that? I don’t have to?”

“I’ve never, nobody has ever… done. This.”

“Tell me,” I asked gently before I dipped my tongue inside her and flicked.

Her entire body jerked.

“Tell me he never touched you like this, tell me nobody has ever touched you like this.”

“Never,” she rasped. “You.” That word was like a gunshot going off in my soul. “Only you, Andrei.”

“Me.” I flicked my tongue again, and gripped her by the ass, pulling her almost completely off the counter while I sat beneath her and sucked her off in the most primitive aggressive way I knew how.

With every ounce of energy I had in my physical body.

With my soul.

I used every weapon in my arsenal.

______________________________________________

Michel’s Review

Six years ago I read the first Eagle Elite Series book by Rachel Van Dyken and became a devoted fan to the series. It’s bittersweet that after six years with fifteen books & novellas, this series is coming to an end. The Italians are stepping aside and letting the Russians step into the spotlight. Unlike the Italians, the Russians are not loyal to their families or their brother in arms. They are a ruthless bunch with their own set of rules.

Readers met the Petrovs, the leaders of the Russian Bratva, in Elude, book six of the Eagle Elite Series. They have been a menace to the Italians and are trying to take over the underworld of crime. The Russians are encroaching on the families businesses as well as dealing in human trafficking. They have secretly recruited the DeLange family into their unethical, monstrous world. The DeLange Family has been on shaking ground with the other four families for years. Their dealings with the Russians has sealed their fate within the family hierarchy. An informer in the Bratva is instrumental in exposing the DeLange Family and their dealings with Alexander Petrov, the leader of the Bratva. The deaths of both leaders has not changed the business arrangement between both factions.

Andrei Petrov, heir to the Petrov Dynasty in the Bratva, has betrayed his father and fellow brotherhood to put an end to human trafficking. At an early age he learned that love meant nothing, family was only defined by genetics, and the only value in human life was the price it would bring in the end. He’s had too much blood on his hands and delivered too many deaths. His father may be dead but his monstrosities are still living on. Andrei intends to put a stop to it. He has one more club/auction house to shut down but first he needs to find out who is involved with trafficking these women. These women show up on a weekly schedule, same day, same time, and same location by the same people who know nothing except delivery info. Once he finds out who is behind the scenes he will take them down himself.

Andrei knows the DeLange family and some of his father’s soldiers are involved. Even though Mil DeLange died, the DeLange family is still heavily involved. The Italians have put out an extermination order on the DeLange family. They have been excommunicated in the family business. They still need to find out which DeLange members are still involved in the prostitution and human trafficking.

When a girl, number 632, is taken from a DeLange stronghold and placed in the new lot of women coming in, Andrei knows he has a valuable bargaining chip. Alice DeLange has been taken from her home and delivered to Andrei Petrov as a common piece of merchandise. She is relieved to be freed from her abusive home and horrendous family. Becoming another kind of prisoner is better than the life she was born into. She is a DeLange, her life comes with an expiration date. What does it matter if the Russians or the Italians kill her. She knows it’s always been blood in…no out. She can’t help the family she was born into but maybe she can control how she dies. Andrei Petrov, her number one enemy may be her only chance to control her life in death.

Both Andrei and Alice have suffered at the hands of their family. Both are tainted by their blood. Together they are damaged souls that soothe each other’s pain. Life has not

The Russians and Italians have to stop the human trafficking. It could come at a very high cost. Blood is going to spill on both sides. They are used to paying the price in blood.

A new alliance is being formed. A new saga is just beginning. The Russians are here to stay. The Elite world is evolving.

Rachel Van Dyken has flawlessly taken a series villain and redeemed his soul while adding a new facet in the Elite world. I can’t wait to see what the Russians, the Elite Bratva Brotherhood has in store for the fans of the Eagle Elite Series.

I absolutely loved DEBASE by Rachel Van Dyken!

___________________________________________

About Rachel:

Rachel Van Dyken is the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today Bestselling author of regency and contemporary romances. When she’s not writing you can find her drinking coffee at Starbucks and plotting her next book while watching The Bachelor.

She keeps her home in Idaho with her Husband, adorable son, and two snoring boxers! She loves to hear from readers!

Connect with Rachel:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RachelVanDyken
Website: http://rachelvandykenauthor.com
Newsletter: http://bit.ly/RVDNewsletter
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachvd
Twitter: https://twitter.com/RachVD
Amazon: http://amzn.to/2cNVwL9
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/RVDGR
Rachel’s Rockin’ Readers: http://bit.ly/RachelsRockinReaders

New Release + Release Blitz + Excerpt + 4 Star Review: International Player by Louise Bay

Posted on 04/30/2019 by cafemamanc7

INTERNATIONAL PLAYER by Louise Bay
Release Date: April 30th
Genre: Standalone Contemporary Romance

AVAILABLE NOW!!
Amazon US: https://amzn.to/2J7doAO

Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/2XRnFF9

B&N: https://bit.ly/2GSCTUB

Kobo: http://bit.ly/LouiseIP

Apple Books: https://apple.co/2QdJdwn
Paperback: https://amzn.to/2PmIK5M

Add to Goodreads:
https://bit.ly/2KU3RMh

Blurb:
Being labelled a player never stopped me from being successful with women. Until I met Truly Harbury.

Truly was the first girl who ever turned me down.

The first female friend I ever had.

And she might just be the first woman I ever fall in love with.

When an emergency means she needs my help running her family’s charity, I’m happy to introduce her to the glitz and glamour of the London business world—taking her to dinners, coaching her through speeches, zipping up the sexy evening gown I helped her pick out.

The more time we spend together, the more I want to convince her I’m not a man to avoid, that we’re not as unsuited as she believes.

She sees herself as the book-reading, science-loving introvert while I’m the dangerous, outgoing, charmer.

She thinks I love parties and people whereas she prefers pajamas and a takeaway.

What she doesn’t realize is that I like everything about her–the way her smile lights up a room, how her curves light up my imagination, and especially the way her lips taste when coated with tequila.

She’s the first woman I ever fell in love with. I just need to know if she could ever love me too.

*International Player is a complete standalone contemporary romance

Excerpt:
In, two, three, out, two. Shit. I tried again. In, two, three, out, two, three. It wasn’t helping. My heart was hammering against my chest, my palms were sweaty, and images of hundreds and hundreds of faces staring at me flashed into my head.

I ignored the knock on my office door. I was too concerned about what was happening to me. Was it possible to have a heart attack at twenty-eight?

“Truly,” a familiar, male voice called.

I couldn’t look up. Couldn’t even open my eyes.

Warm hands covered my knees and body heat radiated in front of me.

“Are you okay? Take a breath.” What was Noah doing here?

I nodded, still counting my breath. As if he was familiar with the technique, he began counting along with me. “Out, two, three. In, two, three. Out, two, three.”

His voice was calming. The counting hadn’t worked when I’d done it alone, but hearing him counting too helped me settle into a rhythm.

Eventually, his hands slid from my knees, and I sat up and opened my eyes, right into his.

“Are you okay?” he asked, his brow

furrowed.

I was such an idiot. A mess. And this was why Noah and I had only ever been friends. He was used to seeing me in no makeup with a smear of kung pao chicken on my face. And now I was panicking about a meeting that he would think nothing of. Yes, Noah only ever saw me at my absolute worst.

“What are you doing here?” I asked. I didn’t want him to see me like this.

“Do you want some water?” He stood and poured me a glass of sparkling water from the bottle on my desk.

“Thanks.” I took a sip and sat back in my chair.

“I came to talk to you. Apologize if I seemed harsh last night. I’m sorry if I made this worse, Truly.”

I cleared my throat. “I’m fine. Just a little . . .” I watched as he slid into the chair opposite my desk, his long legs unfurling in front of him. “I just have a lot to do.”

He nodded, steepling his fingers. “And I’m here to help.”

Tracey’s Review

Louise Bay’s books are always sure bets for me. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed them from the very beginning of her career, and I always look forward to what she might have in store. Friends to lovers, office romance, billionaires, royalty, she’s done it all, and always with wit, sexiness, class, and a healthy dose of humor that draws me in and keeps me invested throughout.

INTERNATIONAL PLAYER, Louise’s latest, has all of the warmth, humor, and quirk that I’ve come to expect and love, and is reminiscent of her earlier books in all the best ways. Reading this felt like a homecoming, of sorts, reminding me of what drew me to Louise’s stories in the very first place. Friendship, humor, some downright steam, and a dash of heartbreak, all woven together to create a story that I just couldn’t put down.

Truly is my absolute favorite, with her awkwardness masking an innate intelligence, warmth, humor, and sensuality that, once unleashed really allows her to come into her own. And the way that she navigates her relationship with Noah had me smiling over and over again, because he just didn’t know what hit him when it came to her. There are, of course, some bumps along the way, because, well, the path to true love, and all that, but the framework of friendship and a true liking for each other overcomes in the end.

INTERNATIONAL PLAYER, in all of its friends to lovers sweetness and sizzle, will quickly become a favorite of Louise’s books, and is an easy 4 stars from me.

About the Author:
USA Today bestselling author, Louise Bay writes sexy, contemporary romance novels – the kind she likes to read. Her books include the novels Faithful (not currently on sale as undergoing maintenance!), Hopeful, The Empire State Series, The Royals Series, The Nights Series (both series of standalone books each following different characters) and the standalone Gentleman series.

Ruined by romantic mini-series of the eighties, Louise loves all things romantic. There’s not enough of it in real life so she disappears into the fictional worlds in books and films.

Louise loves the rain, The West Wing, London, days when she doesn’t have to wear make-up, being on her own, being with friends, elephants and champagne.

She loves to hear from readers so get in touch!

Connect w/Louise:
Website: https://louisebay.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorlouisebay
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/louisesbay
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/louiseSbay
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2VSsbDb
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8056592.Louise_Bay
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/louise-bay

New Release + Release Blitz: Ignite by Donna Grant

Posted on 04/30/2019 by cafemamanc7

**Today we are celebrating the release of Donna Grant’s IGNITE, the 15th book in her Dark Kings series.**

You can purchase your copy now.

Kindle | Nook | Apple | Kobo | GooglePlay

Print: Amazon | BAM | BN | IndieBound | Powells

About IGNITE:

Every inch of him was molded as if from granite…and her blood ran like fire…

For centuries, V has waited to awaken from his doomed sleep and reclaim his destiny. But this Dragon King—one among a legion of legendary warriors sworn to protect the human race from darkness—must first find a way to win back his sword. Wield its power. And try not to fall prey to his own illicit desires.

Claire may possess the beauty and soul of a goddess but V knows better than to mess with a mere mortal. Still, he instinctively knows that Claire is The One who can help him regain the use of his sword and restore his place at Dreagan. But if she learns the truth about who—and what—he really is, her memories of him would be erased forever. How can V love Claire truly, madly, deeply…and protect her from the forces of fire and darkness that could destroy them both?

Praise for the Dark Kings series:

“Provocative [and] sizzling.”
—RT Book Reviews (4 stars)

“A must-read.”
—Night Owl Reviews

Add IGNITE to your Goodreads TBR here!

Purchase your copy of IGNITE today!

Kindle | Nook | Apple | Kobo | Google Play

Print: Amazon | BAM | BN | IndieBound | Powells

———————

About DONNA GRANT

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Donna Grant has been praised for her “totally addictive” and “unique and sensual” stories. Her latest acclaimed series, Dark Kings, features a thrilling combination of dragons, Fae, and immortal Highlanders who are dark, dangerous, and irresistible. She lives with her two children and an assortment of animals in Texas.
Website / Facebook / Instagram / Goodreads

Release Blitz: Debase by Rachel Van Dyken- Final Book in Eagle Elite Series and First Book in Elite Bratva Brotherhood

Posted on 04/30/2019 by shellbellereads

Debase, the final book in the Eagle Elite Series and the first new book in the Elite Bratva Brotherhood by #1 New York Times Bestselling Author Rachel Van Dyken is Live!

With blood on my hands, I held her.

With death in my soul, I took from her.

With the devil in my heart, I coveted her.

There are many definitions of Hell.

My list was exhaustive, my definitions tragic.

Tonight I was adding something new to the very top.

Girl number six thirty-two.

She arrived on my birthday, the same day, every year, I play Russian Roulette and pull the trigger.

She was my omen.

My end game.

She made it personal.

And for the first time in my life, I gave in.

A virgin mob boss with no soul.

My name is Andrei Petrov.

They call me the devil.

All I want is for the pain to end.

All she wants is for me to share it.

I am the last remaining heir to a dynasty that should burn in Hell.

And my last wish remains for it to die with me.

Debase - AN.jpg

Download your copy today!

Amazon US: https://amzn.to/2FLoeJc

Amazon Worldwide: mybook.to/Debase

Nook: http://smarturl.it/DebaseBN

AppleBooks: http://smarturl.it/DebaseApple

Kobo: http://smarturl.it/DebaseKobo

Smashwords: http://smarturl.it/DebaseSW

Add to Goodreads: http://bit.ly/2OyE6me

Release Blitz.jpg

About Rachel:

She keeps her home in Idaho with her Husband, adorable son, and two snoring boxers! She loves to hear from readers!

Connect with Rachel:

New Release + Release Blitz: Imperfect Match by Corinne Michaels and Melanie Harlow

Posted on 04/29/2019 by cafemamanc7

Imperfect Match, a sexy friends to lovers standalone romance, from New York Times bestselling Corinne Michaels & USA Today bestselling Melanie Harlow, is available now!

Rule number one for a professional matchmaker?

Don’t fall in love with your client.

I screwed that up when I fell for my best friend, Reid Fortino. He’s gorgeous, successful, and sexy as hell. I figured it would be easy to find him a match—and save the family business at the same time.

But the more time I spend attempting to find the perfect girl, the more I realize how much I want him for my own. What’s the harm if we give in for just one night?

I should have known that would never be enough.

Now I’m on the verge of losing my job and my heart.

We were an imperfect match from the start, but I don’t know how to let him go.

Download your copy today or read FREE in Kindle Unlimited!

Amazon: https://amzn.to/2ILQ6AQ
Amazon Worldwide: mybook.to/imperfectmatch
Amazon Paperback: https://amzn.to/2XUcsUg

Add to GoodReads: http://bit.ly/2Onh0io

About the authors:

New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal Bestseller Corinne Michaels is the author of nine romance novels. She’s an emotional, witty, sarcastic, and fun loving mom of two beautiful children. Corinne is happily married to the man of her dreams and is a former Navy wife.

After spending months away from her husband while he was deployed, reading and writing was her escape from the loneliness. She enjoys putting her characters through intense heartbreak and finding a way to heal them through their struggles. Her stories are chock full of emotion, humor, and unrelenting love.

USA Today Bestselling Author Melanie Harlow likes her martinis dry, her heels high, and her history with the naughty bits left in. When she’s not writing or reading, she gets her kicks from TV series like VEEP, Game of Thrones, House of Cards, and Homeland. She occasionally runs three miles, but only so she can have more gin and steak.

Melanie is the author of the AFTER WE FALL series, the HAPPY CRAZY LOVE series, the FRENCHED series, and the sexy historical SPEAK EASY duet, set in the 1920s. She lifts her glass to romance readers and writers from her home near Detroit, MI, where she lives with her husband, two daughters, and pet rabbit.

Get Connected!

Connect with Corinne:
Facebook:https://bit.ly/1iwLh6y
Twitter: https://bit.ly/2Jcp29z
Instagram: https://bit.ly/2L1Vzo6
Goodreads: https://bit.ly/2N1H2Gb
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Pinterest: https://bit.ly/2m7MkEL
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Stay up to date with Corinne and sign up for her mailing list:
To sign up for monthly text alerts: Text CMBOOKS TO 77948
*US only due to carrier restrictions*

Connect with Melanie:
Facebook: https://bit.ly/1RiTP7z
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Website: http://www.melanieharlow.com

Stay up to date with Melanie, sign up for her Mailing List: http://www.melanieharlow.com/subscribe/

New Release + Release Blitz + Giveaway: Too Dangerous by Bethany Lopez

Posted on 04/29/2019 by cafemamanc7

Today we are celebrating the release of TOO DANGEROUS by Bethany Lopez. It is the fifth, and final, book in the Lewis Cousins series.

As an added bonus, you can now get the first book in the series TOO TEMPTING for free!!

——————

Purchase Now:

Amazon | Apple | Kobo | Nook | Smashwords

Too Dangerous by Bethany Lopez

(The Lewis Cousins, #5)
Contemporary Romance

Synopsis:

Jasmine’s worked hard to get where she is, a tough, savvy woman in a male dominated business.

Shane’s just trying to get by. Trying to build a life for himself away from the pitfalls of his past.

She’s always kept him at arm’s length, afraid to ignite the passion that sparks whenever he’s near.

He does everything in his power to remind her of what she’s missing.

Now, Shane needs a wife, and Jazzy’s the only one who can help him.

Too Dangerous is the fifth and final book in the Lewis Cousins series by Bethany Lopez.

Purchase Now:

Amazon | Apple | Kobo | Nook | Smashwords

Add the book to Goodreads

GIVEAWAY

Enter to win a New Release Book Box!

——————-

PURCHASE THE PREVIOUS BOOKS IN THE SERIES

TOO TEMPTING (Available now for FREE!)

Amazon | B&N | Kobo | iBooks | Smashwords

TOO COMPLICATED (Available now!)

Amazon | iBooks | Kobo | Nook | Smashwords

TOO DISTRACTING (Available now!)

Amazon | iBooks | Kobo | Nook | Smashwords

Brand New Look!

TOO ENCHANTING (Available Now!)

Amazon | iBooks | Kobo | Nook | Smashwords

———————–

Bethany Lopez is a USA Today Bestselling author of more than thirty books and has been published since 2011. She’s a lover of all things romance, which she incorporates into the books she writes, no matter the genre.

When she isn’t reading or writing, she loves spending time with family and traveling whenever possible.

Bethany can usually be found with a cup of coffee or glass of wine at hand, and will never turn down a cupcake!

AUTHOR LINKS:

New Release + Blog Tour + Excerpt + 4 Star Review: Luca by Brenda Rothert

Posted on 04/25/2019 by cafemamanc7

Today we are celebrating the release of LUCA by Brenda Rothert. This is a contemporary romance, standalone, and it is the second title in the Chicago Blaze hockey romance series. Purchase your copy now!

Add the book to your TBR Pile now!

Purchase on Amazon | Nook | Kobo | Apple Books

Follow Brenda’s newsletter for exclusive details!

Luca by Brenda Rothert

Now Available

Chicago Blaze, #2

Purchase on Amazon | Nook | Kobo | Apple Books

Book Blurb:

Abby

I only have one love now—the home furnishings business I’m building into an empire. Maybe money and success can’t love me back, but they keep what’s left of my heart safe. One-night stands are my way of scratching the occasional itch I get for something more. And no one’s better for that than a sexy as sin hockey player I’ll never see again after one very hot night together.

Luca

I used to love two things: hockey and women. But now my nieces and nephew are my top priority, because I’m raising them after tragedy stole their parents. Somehow I balance single parenthood and my career as a forward for the Chicago Blaze. There’s no time for women, until I get knocked on my ass by Abby Daniels. She’s everything I’ve ever wanted, but her devastating past may end us before we even get started.

Add the book to Goodreads

Excerpt:

“Hold still, Uncle Luca.”

My niece Emerson gives me her best glare, but she’s five and cute, so it makes me smile.

“I’m trying,” I tell her, checking out the dark purple polish she’s trying to brush onto my nails.

It’s not my inability to hold still that has more nail polish on my skin than my nails; it’s her technique. My “MANicure”, as my two nieces like to call it, started with my ten-year-old niece Cora and was then passed off to Emerson.

“I found yogurt!” Cora says as she breezes into my bathroom. “It’s got strawberries in the bottom, but that’s okay. This face mask will make you smell good, Uncle Luca.”

I try not to roll my eyes. It’ll be better than the last face mask they whipped up in the kitchen, which had butter in it and was a bitch to scrub off in the shower.

“I have to leave for practice in twenty-five minutes,” I remind the girls. “And I still need a shower. So you have ten more minutes to beautify me.”

“Will you paint my nails, too?” Cora asks me.

“Sure.”

I was shit at painting nails when I first became the legal guardian of my two nieces and one nephew a little over a year ago. With practice, though, I’ve gotten pretty damn good at it.

“How long ‘til Gram and Gramps will be here?” Emerson asks, still painting my thumb nail even though she’s looking at me.

“About four hours ‘til their flight lands, then maybe an hour for them to get to the house.”

Her toothless grin of excitement makes me ignore the nail polish I can feel on my knuckle.

“Emerson!” Cora yells. “You ruined it! That looks awful.”

Cora picks up the bottle of purple nail polish and Emerson’s happy expression drops away.

“Give it to me,” Cora huffs, holding out her hand for the handle to the polish. “I never should have let you do it.”

“Hey, now.” I give Cora a sharp look. “She was doing her best.”

Cora’s eyes flood with tears. Emerson edges closer to me, because she knows what happens when Cora gets upset.

“He won’t let us do spa days if you mess it up!” Cora cries, glaring at her younger sister. “You ruined everything!”

“You didn’t ruin anything,” I tell Emerson. “And Cora, I never said we wouldn’t do this again. We can do a big spa day after my road trip, okay?”

Cora wipes her eyes and nods, still crying. It kills me to see her like this. As the oldest, she carries more of the weight from the deaths of her parents than her siblings. We’ve been in counseling for more than a year now, transitioning through the death of their mother, my sister-in-law Danielle, to the kids’ new life with me as their guardian. The clinical terms for what Cora struggles with—anxiety and controlling tendencies—are easier for me to handle than her breakdowns.

The tension leaves the room and Emerson starts my massage, which is pretty much just her karate chopping my shoulders, while Cora slathers strawberry yogurt onto my face.

“Is your shoulder better?” Cora asks me.

“Yep, it’s all good.”

“Think my mashage helped?” Emerson asks from behind me.

She can’t pronounce some words, and I kinda hope that’ll last longer, because it gets me every time.

“It definitely helped,” I tell her.

I tweaked my shoulder at practice yesterday, and Cora noticed me wince when I was taking out the trash last night. She worries about every sinus cold and bruise I get. I can’t blame the kid. Her dad, my brother Matt, died serving in Iraq and her mom passed away from cancer a year later.

“Hey, let’s get your nails painted, Cora,” I say after glancing at my watch. “I’ve only got five minutes til I have to hit the shower.” I turn to Emerson. “Can you go get the nail polish remover, peanut?”

“Okay.” She races from the room, brown curls flying behind her.

Tracey’s Review

When Chicago Blaze player Luca Campbell crosses paths with businesswoman Abby Daniels, the attraction is immediate and mutual. Abby is strong, successful in her own right, and knows what she wants. But the Abby that Luca meets and falls for is not exactly who she seems to be. Because Abby has dealt with unimaginable loss and heartache, and she will keep that part of her life hidden, no matter how close she and Luca grow.

As book boyfriends go, it would be hard to find a better one than Luca Campbell. Sexy, nice, and a famous athlete, yes, but first and foremost, he’s a family man, dedicated to making sure that his nieces and nephew can experience normalcy, security, and, above all, unconditional love. Having dealt with heartbreak of his own, Luca knows that Abby is keeping a part of herself closed off, and he is determined to break down her barriers and know the “real’ her.

Proving that she knows her stuff, Brenda Rothert has scored big with LUCA, the second book in her Chicago Blaze series. These characters and their stories are more than just another sports romance. There are back stories here that add depth and interest, and make for an emotional and satisfying reading experience.

LUCA is definitely a romance book, but it is the emotion and heart that makes it more for me. Already a big fan of the first two books, I can’t wait to meet the rest of the Blaze players because Brenda has done such a masterful job with these characters and their stories. Victor is next up, and I’ll be anxiously waiting to see what Brenda has in store for him. If hot hockey players with heart that get their HEAs are your thing, these books are for you, so add them to the TBR and enjoy.

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AUTHOR INFORMATION:

Brenda Rothert is an Illinois native who was a print journalist for nine years. She made the jump from fact to fiction in 2013 and never looked back. From new adult to steamy contemporary romance, Brenda creates fresh characters in every story she tells. She’s a lover of Diet Coke, chocolate, lazy weekends and happily ever afters.

AUTHOR LINKS:

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Wattpad | Amazon

Release Blitz and 5+ Star Review: The Rebel of Raleigh High by Callie Hart

Posted on 04/25/2019 by shellbellereads

The Rebel of Raleigh High

By Callie Hart

Release Date: April 25,2019

Buy: Amazon US

Amazon UK

Amazon CA

Amazon AU

*****

Blurb:

Silver

Hit me.

Kick me.

Hurt me.

Hate me.

There’s nothing that the students of Raleigh High can do to Silver Parisi anymore. Over the past year, she’s had to endure more pain and suffering than most people are asked to bear in their lifetimes. She’s a pariah, an outcast, a ghost. She’s also never been one to take shit lying down, though…despite what half the football team might say.

With only one hundred and sixty-eight days left of the school year, it won’t be long until graduation, and Silver’s planning on skipping town and leaving Raleigh firmly in her rearview mirror…

Until he comes along…

Alex

Orphan.

Degenerate.

Reprobate.

Deviant.

Alex Moretti’s earned most of his labels, and he’s not shamed of a single one of them. He’ll earn far worse before he’s finished with his new found ‘friends’ at Raleigh High. Having spent years being ground down under the boot heel of society, it’s time for a little payback. And if exacting a revenge upon the heads of the Raleigh elite means he can also help the beautiful girl who hovers in the shadows, then that’s all for the better.

Oil and water. Fire and ice. The differences between Silver and Alex are broader than any chasm. To reach one another, they must take a leap of faith and fall into the divide.

And falling?

Nothing good ever came from falling.

***Warning: This is NOT YA, guys! It’s an adult story, with very adult, very dark themes***

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Michel’s Review

The Rebel of Raleigh High by Callie Hart is one of those books I don’t think I will ever forget. It is not the typical high school romance or predictable teenage story. It is not a YA Book even though the characters are sadly teenagers. It has some very adult and very dark subject matter that really does exist in the high school world. She captured this world and vividly brought this story to life through a cast of well developed characters, who all played an integral part of this story. She played upon their flaws, strengths, and weaknesses to propel this story into an unpredictable direction. I was completely flabbergasted when the plot reached it’s climax.

The story begins with Alex Moretti in a very unusual criminal situation. He’s caught in the act of committing this unspeakable crime. He is still a minor at the age of seventeen and unfortunately a ward of the state. He’s on his last chance of redemption and is sent to Raleigh High School to finish out the remainder of the school year. Instead of being placed in a better academic environment, he’s placed into a new kind of hell where bullying is mere child’s play. He’s lived a tough life and can survive anything. He can outlast any of these jerks but when he meets Silver Parisi his agenda changes. He should just mind his own business and survive the school year. He has too much at stake. Is he willing to risk it all for one girl who wants nothing to do with him? The answer is a big YES.

Silver Parisi is living in her own private hell. The hellhole known as Raleigh High is just a place where she has to survive for eight hours during the day, five days a week. She’s already faced the devils that walk the halls and survived. Sure she’s a broken and bruised from it but she didn’t let them win. When Alex Moretti shows up in the halls it makes her want to become the girl she once was. At the same time she resents him for making her want that. None of his actions make sense. One moment he seems like a rebel and the next moment he’s joining the devil’s crew. Nothing is as it seems.

Two damaged misfits finding their place in a hostile environment is a formula for disaster. Finding love and friendship is a bonus. Making it to graduation might not be possible but it’s a good goal to have. The Rebels of Raleigh High are walking the halls and conquering their world the only way they can. Only the strong survive and the weak will not be forgotten.

Callie Hart knocked it out of the park with this book. The moment I began reading this book I was mesmerized. The characters came to life and grabbed my complete attention and insisted I witness their story. I read this book from cover to cover in one sitting. I can honestly say Callie is one of those authors who throws in a surprise shocker that readers don’t see coming. I see real potential of experiencing more from Silver and Alex in future books.

I highly recommend reading The Rebel of Raleigh High by Callie Hart.

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Meet Callie Hart:

Callie Hart is a USA Today bestselling author of dark romance novels. She is an obsessive romantic who loves throwing a dark twist into her stories. Her characters are imperfect, flawed individuals who dictate when she eats, sleeps and breathes. She loves to travel, and often pens her books when she’s on the road, drawing inspiration from her often unique and wild surroundings.

If she’s not writing, you’ll undoubtedly find her with her nose buried deep in a book, or binge watching Game of Thrones.

Facebook / Twitter / Amazon / Goodreads / Website

New Release + Release Blitz: Luca by Brenda Rothert

Posted on 04/23/2019 by cafemamanc7

Today we are celebrating the release of LUCA by Brenda Rothert. This is a contemporary romance, standalone, and it is the second title in the Chicago Blaze hockey romance series. Purchase your copy now!

Add the book to your TBR Pile now!

Purchase on Amazon | Nook | Kobo | Apple Books

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