New Release + 5 Star Review: Hard Hitter by Sarina Bowen – The Brooklyn Bruisers Series – Book 2

unnamed

Hard Hitter

Brooklyn Bruisers Series – Book 2

By Sarina Bowen

Release :January 3, 2017

Buy : Amazon / B & N / IBooks / Kobo

aa08d-goodreads

Synopsis

He’s a fighter in the rink, but he’s about to learn that playing nice can help you score…

As team captain and enforcer, Patrick O’Doul puts the bruise in the Brooklyn Bruisers. But after years of hard hits, O’Doul is feeling the burn, both physically and mentally. He conceals his pain from his coach and trainers, but when his chronic hip injury becomes too obvious to ignore, they send him for sessions with the team’s massage therapist.

After breaking up with her long-term boyfriend, Ari Bettini is in need of peace of mind. For now, she’s decided to focus on her work: rehabilitating the Bruisers’ MVP. O’Doul is easy on the eyes, but his reaction to her touch is ice cold. Ari is determined to help O’Doul heal, but as the tension between them turns red hot, they both learn that a little TLC does the body good…

********************************

5StarHockeyPuck

Michel’s Review

The Brooklyn Bruisers are back making another scoring goal with Hard Hitter !  Nobody writes a hockey romance better than Sarina Bowen.

Patrick O’ Doul is one of the NHL’s most fierce enforcers.  For years he has put a hurt on his team’s opponents.  He has built a reputation of being one of the most brutal enforcers in the league.  He is also a dedicated team leader.  He leads by examples.  He always puts the team and the game first.  He’s given years to the game giving it his all.  Now he finds himself in his thirties and feeling every hit.  The years have taken it’s toll.  He can no longer brush off the pain.  His coach is insisting he takes the help and relief he desperately needs.  He has been forced into massage therapy with the team’s therapist.  It’s not that he is against massages, he just can’t stand being touched by anyone.  It’s going to take a miracle to get him on Ari’s table.

Ari has Patrick’s number, she understands his aversion to being touched.  She’s good at her job and will find a way to treat this dynamic powerful athlete without disrupting his psyche.  She’s a professional.

Ari and Patrick enter into an unlikely friendship that becomes valuable to them both.  Ari is trying to move on from an abusive relationship.  Patrick is searching for something more in his life than hockey.  He has kept people at arms length all of his life.  He needs a change. Ari is not only going to soothe his aches and pains, she is going to help him soothe his soul.  She is teaching him how to be a real friend and teammate.  She is healing his soul.

Both Ari and Patrick are healing each other.  Patrick is showing Ari how honorable men behave.  He is showing her the respect she deserves.  He is also willing to give her his heart.  Ari must choose to take a chance on love again or her career.

Sarina Bowen delivered another emotional story that showcases what matters most in life, love and friendship.

Everytime I open a new Sarina Bowen novel I know that I am in for a fulfilling and entertaining reading experience.  She creates very real characters and gives them a story every reader can relate to.  She is a must read author that never disappoints.

Hard Hitter by Sarina Bowen is a 5 Star Book.  I can’t wait to see what comes next for the Brooklyn Bruisers.

***************************

The Brooklyn Bruisers Series .

ROOKIEMOVE_approvedcomp.indd

Rookie Move

Brooklyn Bruisers Series – Book 1

By Sarina Bowen

Release Date: September 6, 2016

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

3ff90-goodreads

Synopsis

In high school they were the perfect couple—until the day Georgia left Leo in the cold…

Hockey player Leo Trevi has spent the last six years trying to do two things: get over the girl who broke his heart, and succeed in the NHL. But on the first day he’s called up to the newly franchised Brooklyn Bruisers, Leo gets checked on both sides, first by the team’s coach—who has a long simmering grudge, and then by the Bruisers’ sexy, icy publicist—his former girlfriend Georgia Worthington.

Saying goodbye to Leo was one of the hardest things Georgia ever had to do—and saying hello again isn’t much easier. Georgia is determined to keep their relationship strictly professional, but when a press conference microphone catches Leo declaring his feelings for her, things get really personal, really fast…

“Romantic and hilarious, Rookie Move will hook you from page one. Nobody does hockey like Sarina Bowen.” –Elle Kennedy, New York Times bestselling author of the Off Campus series.

____________________________________________________

 

 Author Bio:

Sarina BowenSarina Bowen writes steamy, angsty Contemporary Romance and New Adult fiction from the wilds of Vermont.

The Year We Fell Down, Book #1 in The Ivy Years series, began breaking hearts in March 2014. Book #2, The Year We Hid Away, is brand new.

For Harlequin-E, Sarina writes the Gravity series. Coming in From the Cold features an angsty downhill ski racer and one of the most unique plot conflicts in contemporary romance today.

Sarina enjoys skiing, coffee products and a nice glass of wine. She lives with her family, eight chickens and more ski gear and hockey equipment than seems necessary.

She would be honored to connect with you at http://www.sarinabowen.com.

Sign up for Sarina’s Mailing List

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter~ Goodreads ~Amazon Author Page

******unnamed

New Release + 5 Star Review: Hate Story by Nicole Williams

 

img_1790

 img_1701Hate Story

By Nicole Williams

Release Date: December 26, 2016

Buy: Amazon / B & N / IBooks / Amazon UK / Amazon CA / Amazon AU

goodreads-badge.png
AP new - synopsis.jpg

Nina can’t let herself fall in love with the man she’s going to marry. Both of them have experienced the sting and sham of love and have no intentions of falling victim to it twice. Love is expensive—hate is free.

Three years. A million dollars. A solution to both of their problems. They planned it all, from the story of their first meeting to the date of their divorce. Nothing could go wrong.

But what they didn’t consider was chemistry, and Nina and Max have no shortage of it. After too many near-kisses, Nina convinces herself that hating Max is better than loving him, and the more she gets to know this soon-to-be-husband of hers, the more she discovers just how very much she truly, madly, and deeply . . . hates him.

This isn’t a love story. This is the other kind.

 

img_1841

 

  Excerpt

“Okay. So how do you think this is going?” Max tipped the broom handle between us. “You and me?”
My forehead pinched together. “You and me the plan? Or you and me the surprise?”
Max’s brow answered my question.
“And this topic is what you consider not-so-deep?” I nudged him and moved to finish stocking syrups.
“All I’m looking for is a simple estimation. Since we were just talking about school, give us a grade for how you think this is going.”
“A grade? Like A, B, C, D, F?”
“Exactly like that.”
I shook my head. “Did you have a rough day at work today? Lose an Olympic-size swimming pool of money or something? Are you needing your daily ego stroking to come from somewhere else today?” When I glanced back at him, I found Max leaning into the door he’d relocked, arms crossed and waiting.
“Our relationship is unique,” he said. “Intricate. I’m asking not because I need my ego stroked, but because I care. If I need to make some changes, I’m willing to. Anything you need, whatever you want, that’s what I’ll give you. But first, I have to know how I’m doing.”
If a man could get a woman pregnant from a piercing stare and a collection of words, I’d just gotten myself good and knocked up. With twins.
“You know how it’s going,” I said, trying to focus on the syrups instead of what—or who—I wanted to focus on.
“I know how I think it’s going. I’d like to know how you think it’s going.”
My mouth went a little dry. Having these kinds of talks was hard for anyone—they were next to impossible for me. “Well, you haven’t gone and confessed your undying love or scared the hell out of me by asking me to be your baby mama, so you’re keeping your promise to take it nice and slow.” When he gave a mini bow, I rolled my eyes. “Not to mention you aren’t too shabby in the sack, you don’t leave dirty dishes in the sink, and you share the remote well.”
Max’s face went flat. “Not too shabby?”
“Oh, please. You know how good you are. Stop fishing for compliments.” A flush crept up my neck as I thought of the most recent evidence to support that theory.
A slow, crooked smile spread across his face. “I want a grade.”
“Like comprehensive? Or broken down by category?” I was stalling, and Max knew I was stalling.
“You’re making this way too difficult,” he grumbled.
“An A minus,” I said abruptly. “I’d give you an A minus.”
“Why not an A plus?”
I kept my head turned so he couldn’t see my smile. Only Max Sturm would be outraged by an A minus. “Because there’s always room for improvement. And I wouldn’t want it to go to your head, that’s why not an A plus.”
The door creaked when he shoved off of it. He made no move to tame the way he was checking me out, leaning into the counter as I organized the syrups. “Something’s definitely going to my head.”
My gaze roamed his zipper region. “I was talking about the one north of your neck.”
“And I’m talking about the one at the end of my dick. My, at present, hard dick, thanks to you.” He came up behind me, fitting himself against my backside as his hands moved around to work on my jeans.
“Max,” I protested, my eyes closing a second later when his dick nuzzled deeper into my backside.
“Nina. I’m taking your body. Here. Now.” His chest pressed into my back as he lowered my zipper. “Accept that so we can move on to the next part.”

img_1837

 

5Star

Michel’s Review

Some say there is a fine line between love and hate.  Both of these emotions can be all consuming.  Hate Story by Nicole Williams is not a story of two strong emotions battling to overtake the other.  It is a beautiful love story of two strong willed individuals on a journey of self discovery.  Two people finding themselves as well as finding the perfect partner in life.

Nina agreed to marry Max so that he could obtain his green card for one million dollars.  They have a three year contract that is perfectly synchronized to the very last detail.  Max wants his green card so that he can remain in the United States the rest of his life.  Nina needs the money to keep her grandmother’s home.  It’s the perfect arrangement.  Neither want a real marriage.  Neither of them wants to fall in love.  In fact, Nina doesn’t believe in love.  Love has let her down her entire life.

As Nina and Max embark on their arrangement they soon find they sincerely like one another.  They find their attraction slowly building into something more.  Something that isn’t in the contract.  Once they admit their true feelings it changes everything.  Their contract is null and void.

Once they have broke the contract it has broken both of them.  Now they have to face the real truths of their lives.  They have to learn to deal with their real emotions.  They have to choose their future.

Nicole Williams once again delivered an emotional love story that leaves the reader swooning.  I highly recommend reading Hate Story by Nicole Williams.

 

 

AP new -about the author.jpg

 

 

4887264Nicole Williams is the New York Times and USATODAY bestselling author of contemporary and young adult romance, including the Crash and Lost & Found series. Her books have been published by HarperTeen and Simon & Schuster in both domestic and foreign markets, while she continues to self-publish additional titles. She is working on a new YA series with Crown Books (a division of Random House) as well. She loves romance, from the sweet to the steamy, and writes stories about characters in search of their happily even after. She grew up surrounded by books and plans on writing until the day she dies, even if it’s just for her own personal enjoyment. She still buys paperbacks because she’s all nostalgic like that, but her kindle never goes neglected for too long. When not writing, she spends her time with her husband and daughter, and whatever time’s left over she’s forced to fit too many hobbies into too little time.

Nicole is represented by Jane Dystel, of Dystel and Goderich Literary Agency.

ArdentProse_LogoMain.jpg

Release Blitz + Excerpt + Review: Until Ashlyn by Aurora Rose Reynolds – Until Her Series

until_ashlyn_book_tour

until_ashlyn_live

until-ashlyn-cover

Until Ashlyn

Until Her Series – Book 3

By Aurora Rose Reynolds

Buy: Amazon / Amazon UK / B & N / IBooks / Kobo

23f7a-goodreads

Synopsis

Dillon Keck knew Ashlyn Mayson was drunk when she suggested they get married. He knew he should have taken her back to their hotel room and put her to bed. Instead, he did what he had been craving to do since the moment they met.

 

Claim her as his.

 

Waking up married in Vegas isn’t something Ashlyn Mayson ever thought would happen to her. Having Dillon, her boss, a man she thinks is a dick, insist they stay married is absurd, but every time he touches her, she gets lost in him and wonders if maybe they are meant to be together.

 

But someone isn’t happy for Dillon and Ashlyn and their new found romance, and they’re willing to do anything to keep them apart. Even commit murder.

until-ashlyn-teaser

 

 

Excerpt

Dedication

To every single person that believes in the BOOM

Chapter 1

Ashlyn

“Hey, Mom,” I greet, tucking my phone between my ear and shoulder as I shove another dress and matching heels into my suitcase. I smile while I do, because Dillon will likely flip his lid when he sees my choices in attire for the weekend, but there is not one damn thing he can do about it since we won’t be in the office. So technically, his stupid rules don’t apply.

“Are you all packed?”

“Almost,” I sigh, looking at the clock and realizing I only have ten minutes to finish before my cab is set to arrive. I wasn’t planning on going to Vegas for the dental convention, but Dillon insisted he needed me with him, and like an idiot, I agreed.

“Is Dillon picking you up?”

“No, I’m meeting him there. His flight left a couple hours ago.”

“Oh.” She lets out a defeated breath. “Is it just you and him going?”

“I hope so. I swear if the Wicked Witch shows up, I’ll sell her on the strip to the highest bidder, or pay someone to take her out to the desert and drop her off,” I grumble, digging under my bed for my tickler—just in case of an emergency.

“Call me if you need an alibi.” She laughs, and I smile, shaking my head, because I know she’s not lying; she would find a way to be my alibi if something happened.

“I’ll call,” I mutter, heading to the bathroom so I can gather my shower supplies.

“Dillon’s so nice,” she says quietly, and I grit my teeth.

Dillon is annoying, bossy, and… fine, he can be nice sometimes. Plus, he’s uber-hot, but I hate him. Okay, I don’t hate him… but I really, really want to.

“How long are you going to be gone for?” she questions, breaking into my internal rant.

“Just four days. My flight gets back Monday night around seven.”

“Promise you’ll call everyday and check in.”

“I’ll call or text,” I agree, grabbing my cosmetics case from under the bathroom cupboard, filling it with all of my makeup.

“Please try and have some fun while you’re there. Make Dillon take you out to a nice dinner or dancing.”

Snorting, I mutter, “Sure, Mom. I love you. I’ll message when I land.”

“Okay, honey, and don’t forget your dad and I leave Monday for Florida and we’ll be gone for three weeks.”

“I haven’t forgotten. Have fun, kiss Grandma and Grandpa, and tell Dad I love him.”

“Will do,” she promises softly before I hang up and shove my cell into my back pocket. Looking at the clock I let out a quiet curse, getting my ass in gear to finish packing so I don’t miss my flight.

~*~*~

 

Dragging my bag behind me toward the reception desk, I’m stunned by how many people are here wearing nametags stating they’re attending the dental convention. Dillon mentioned this weekend is one of the largest gatherings of dentists in the United States, but sheesh, this is crazy. Finally making it to the front of the line, I smile at the cutie behind the desk.

“How can I help you, gorgeous?” he inquires once I’m close, and I set my purse on the counter and pull out my ID, handing it over to him.

“Hi, I have a reservation.” I yawn, covering my mouth while I listen to the sound of slot machines going off in the distance. I love the slots—or penny slots to be exact, since I’m too chicken to play the real ones.

“I’m sorry, but there is no reservation under your name. Are you sure you’re staying with us?” he asks, handing me back my ID, and I frown.

“I’m positive. It may be under my boss’ name, Dillon Keck. He made the reservations,” I say, and he starts to type again then smiles.

“Got it. I see here that Mr. Keck has already checked in and requested we give you your own key to the suite upon arrival.”

“Uh… what?” I blurt, feeling something close to dread fill my stomach. “Are you saying he’s staying in that room too?”

“Yes, it’s a suite with two kings.”

“I don’t care how many kings are in the room. It’s one room. Right?” I panic, leaning half over the counter, trying to see his computer screen. “Please tell me you have another room available?”

“I’m sorry, but we’re completely booked. This is one of our busiest weekends of the year.”

“Of course it is.” I shake my head. “Can you recommend another hotel nearby?”

“Sorry, but I really doubt anywhere else has an opening.”

“Oh man… oh man,” I breathe, squeezing my eyes closed. “It’s not a big deal. You can share a room with him. You’re an adult, and it’s not like you even like him, right?” I whisper, balling my hands into fists.

“Um, so do you want me to get you your key?” Opening my eyes, I nod once and his face softens. “Call down and check. Sometimes we have people call off their reservations last minute. You never know. Something might open up between tonight and tomorrow.”

“Sure, I’ll call,” I agree, wondering what the hell I did to deserve this kind of karma as I wait there for the room key.

Standing in the hall outside the door to our room ten minutes later, I pause with my key card in my hand, not sure if I should knock or just go in. I seriously cannot believe Dillon booked us in a room together. Actually, I can believe it, because I think he gets off on annoying me.

“Screw it. It’s my room too,” I mutter to myself, shoving the key into the card reader, watching the light turn green. Pushing down on the handle, I turn, using my shoulder to hold the door open while I drag my suitcase into the room, fighting with its weight as the door closes, trapping it half way through.

“Shit!”

Turning my head, I look over my shoulder and almost fall on my ass when my eyes find Dillon standing in the middle of the room, completely naked, with a pair of boxers in his hand. His once long hair now short and wet, and a tattoo I didn’t know he had along his muscled ribs on his side.

“Oh, my God,” I breathe, turning quickly while attempting to shove my suitcase back out of the room. I totally did not need to know Dillon looks hotter without clothes than what my mind had made up, and believe me—my mind had unfortunately tormented me with thoughts of him naked many times.

“Christ, you’re a mess,” is muttered from behind me while a very strong arm wraps around my waist, lifting me off my feet, and my suitcase is tugged from my grasp. Before I know it, my suitcase and I are both in the room and the door closes with a soft hiss, trapping me inside.

“Please tell me you’re not still naked,” I whimper, squeezing my eyes closed, feeling his arm release me and his heat leave my back.

“I’m not naked.”

Opening my eyes, I close them again when I see he’s only got on a pair of form-fitting black boxers and nothing else. “Put some clothes on.”

“Don’t tell me you’ve never seen a naked man before.” He chuckles, and the sound of his laughter makes my teeth grind and my hands drop to my sides.

“I don’t want to see you naked.” I glare at him while he buttons up a pair of dark slacks that fit him perfectly.

“You could have avoided all of this if you had knocked.”

“Really?” I raise a brow. “You could have ‘avoided all this,’” I make air quotes, “and gotten me a separate room.”

“They messed up the reservation.” He shrugs like it’s no big deal, and I feel my eyes narrow further.

“You should have called to tell me that, so I could have—”

“You would have avoided coming,” he cuts me off. “If you knew we were sharing a room, you would have found an excuse, and I need you with me this weekend.”

“Whatever,” I grumble, knowing he’s right. I would have canceled the trip if I knew we were sharing a room, even knowing that being here is a great way to build connections with other dentists. Especially, if I want to open my own practice in the future. “We need to set a few ground rules.” I cross my arms over my chest while I watch him walk across the room toward the bed near the window.

“Later.” He picks up a dark-blue, almost black, dress shirt and starts to put it on, which is unfortunate, because now that I’ve seen him shirtless, I’m thinking he should never cover up again.

“No, now,” I growl, annoyed with myself for being attracted to the dick.

“Later.” He holds my glare. “Right now, you need to get dressed. We have reservations in forty minutes.” He takes a seat on the side of the bed and starts to put on his shoes.

“What?” I look at the clock on the wall. It’s after seven at night and I’m exhausted. All I want to do is climb into bed, order room service, and watch some bad TV.

“We have a reservation in forty minutes,” he repeats, then stands. “The restaurant is twenty minutes away, so you have twenty minutes to get ready, unless you want to wear that.” He motions to my sweats, flip-flops, and hoodie. “I suggest you change.”

“I hate you.”

“So you say,” he says, just barely loud enough for me to hear, as he goes to the dresser, picking up his watch and putting it on.

“What did I do to deserve this?” I shake my head, pulling out my hair tie and running my fingers through my knotted hair.

“You may want to hurry.”

Holding his eyes for a minute, I give up my glare then drag my suitcase to the middle of the room and unzip it. After pulling out one of my favorite “going out” outfits along with my makeup bag, I go to the bathroom and try to slam the door closed, but it’s on one of those thingies that prevents me from doing that, which pisses me off even more.

“Stupid door. Stupid dick,” I mutter once the door is closed, then get to work on making myself look halfway decent.

Twenty minutes later, I look at my refection and lean forward, putting my face an inch from the mirror, and use my dark-red lipstick for the final touch on my dramatic makeup look. Since I didn’t have time to do anything with my hair, I brushed it out and put it up in a bun on top of my head then pulled out a few pieces to frame my face. Looking at my now blonde hair, I smile. I wasn’t sure I would like having blonde hair but Kim insisted it would look great on me, and she wasn’t wrong. Standing back, I place my hands on my hips and take myself in. My black sleeveless-top, with triangles cut out of the center of the chest and sides, is sexy but classy, and my red skin-tight pencil skirt, with its slit up the thigh, shows off just enough skin to draw attention while leaving everything to the imagination.

Slipping on my black, pointed-toe, four-inch pumps, I open the door to the bathroom, and mutter toward where I know Dillon is sitting, “Let me just change my purse and we can go.”

“You’re not wearing that.”

“Pardon?” I ask, pausing in my squatted position in front of my open suitcase to look at him.

“You’re not wearing that outfit. Go change.”

“I’m not changing.” I stand, moving to the desk so I can transfer what I need from my bag to my clutch. Hearing no reply, my eyes move to where he’s sitting on the edge of the bed, and I feel my skin warm up and butterflies take off in my stomach as our eyes lock and his darken.

Licking my lips that have suddenly gone dry, his eyes drop to my mouth and his jaw clenches. “I’ll meet you downstairs.” He stands abruptly and moves past me out the room quickly, letting the door close behind him with a swoosh without another word.

“What the fuck was that?” I ask the door, gaining no reply—not that I need one. I know exactly what that was; I just have no idea what to do with it. Dillon has always acted professional with me. There has never been a time that I’ve seen him look at me like he’s interested, but the look in his eyes a moment ago was primal and not one an engaged man should give another woman, or a boss should give his employee, ever.

Shaking off the strange feeling in the pit of my stomach, I finish changing out my bag then leave the room and make my way through the casino and into the lobby. Not finding Dillon inside, I head outside to the area the cabs and limos pick up and drop off, and spot him standing with a group of people. I’m not surprised he’s surrounded by a gaggle of women and a couple of men. He tends to draw attention wherever he goes, and it’s something else that annoys me. I hate being the center of attention, and I don’t really like people who need it to feel important. Needing a minute to get my head together, I stop a few feet away and tuck my clutch under my arm.

“Where you going, gorgeous? ‘Cause wherever it is, I’m there,” a drunk guy, who can’t be much older than twenty-one, slurs, stumbling up to me. His clothes are rumpled, his hair in disarray, and if he wasn’t such a mess, he’d be cute. But sadly, sloppy drunk works for no one.

Ignoring him, I untuck my purse, open it, and pull out my cell phone, knowing better than to engage with men like him in his current state.

“So you’re to good for me?” he slurs, snatching my cell out of my hand, and my eyes fly up.

“Give me my phone,” I say evenly, holding out my hand, and his eyes travel the length of me and his face scrunches up.

“Ho here thinks she’s too good for me.”

“Mike, come on. Give her the phone and let’s go,” someone says off to the side, but I keep my eyes on Mike, with my palm out toward him. My dad insisted I take martial arts with Jax when I was little. I hated it; I wanted to be a ballerina, not a ninja, but he was adamant about me being able to protect myself. Over the years, the skills I learned back then have come in handy, like now, when all I really want to do is kick the crap out of Mike but know better. One of the first things I was forced to learn was control, to never lose my temper. The second thing I learned was to keep my eyes on my enemy at all times. I was never really good at either, but I still got a black belt in the end.

“Mike,” I say softly, taking a step toward him. “I’m going to ask you nicely, once, to give me my phone. If you don’t, I swear to God I will unleash the Kraken, kick your ass in front of your friends, and send you home crying to your mother.”

Laughing, he looks around then his eyes widen as they move behind me. I really, really want to know what he’s looking at, but I refuse to turn my head and give in.

“Give her the phone.” The deep rumble of Dillon’s voice sends a chill down my spine. I’ve only heard him pissed a few times, and I know he’s pissed right now without even looking at him.

“I… I… w-was just playin’ man,” Mike stutters out, tossing my phone toward me. Missing my hands and causing my phone to crash to the ground, and my nostrils to flare as it shatters at my feet.

“Oh, shit. Oh, Christ. I’m sorry.” He drops to his knees and begins gathering the pieces of what used to be my phone then tries to get up, but falls face forward into my crotch, causing me to stumble back.

“I can’t believe this shit,” Dillon grumbles, catching me before I fall, then tugs me out of the way as Mike’s friends decide to finally step in and pick him up from the ground. “You had to wear that outfit.”

“You can not be serious right now?” I hiss, swinging my head back and finding him glaring down at me.

“Deadly.”

“Let me go.” I try to get free, but his hand on my waist tightens as his eyes leave mine. Swinging my head in the other direction, I find one of Mike’s friends standing a few feet away with my phone, looking anywhere but at us, and Mike off to the side, puking in a trashcan.

“Let me go,” I repeat, and his arm tightens for a moment before he finally lets me loose. I really want to scream or throw a fit, but instead, I calmly take my clutch and open it, holding it out toward the guy and letting him dump the now useless pieces inside. “You need to get him some Gatorade and toast,” I tell him, nodding toward Mike.

“Um, yeah sure. Than…” his words taper off, and the smile that was forming on his lips slides away as he looks over my shoulder. Rolling my eyes, I watch him turn quickly and go to Mike to help carry him away, feeling Dillon get close once more.

“Limo’s waiting,” he mutters, placing his hand against my lower back, making me tense.

“I’m not going.” I try to step away, but his hand slides around my waist, bringing my side into his middle.

“You are.”

“I’m not.”

“You are,” he growls, leaning forward, close… way too close.

“Fine, you want me there? I’ll go, but just so you know, I plan on getting completely wasted, so you have just become my chaperone for the evening.”

“You’re not getting drunk.”

“Wasted, not drunk. And you better make sure I don’t do anything stupid.” I pat his chest, ignoring his flashing eyes. With that, I step out of his grasp and start toward the line of limos then turn to look over my shoulder at him, realizing I have no clue which one to go to.

Smirking, he crosses his arms over his chest and raises a brow. “What’s wrong, blondie? Confused?” His mocking tone and the look of triumph in his eyes does it. I turn on my heels and head to one of the limos with the driver standing outside leaning against it. The moment the driver spots me coming in his direction, his back leaves the car and his eyes rake over me, making my teeth snap together.

“Can I help you, Miss?”

“Ashlyn Mayson, get your ass back here,” Dillon snarls behind me, making my palm itch to smack him.

“I’m sorry, pumpkin. I thought you said this was our limo.” I fake pout, turning to look at him and tossing my head to the side for good measure.

“Christ, you drive me fucking insane.” He walks to where I’m standing, tagging my hand, and then starts to drag me with him, grumbling under his breath.

“You know all I want in this whole wide world is to make you happy, pumpernickel,” I whine, batting my lashes while watching his jaw tic.

Leading me toward another limo with a driver holding the back door open, he growls, “Behave.”

“I swear I’ll be your good girl from now on if you don’t spank me,” I stage-whisper, and his hand spasms in mine as a smirk forms on his lips.

“You don’t behave, I’ll bend you over and tan your ass right here.” His words ring through my ears, making my insides liquid, and then I hear the sound of a male chuckle as I’m gently forced into the back seat of the dark limo before I can reply.

“You’re such a jerk,” I hiss, adjusting my skirt as I move across the leather seats.

“You started the show we put on. I just ended it,” he mutters, sitting down across from me and unbuttoning his suit jacket.

“You started it with the whole ‘blondie’ thing.” I cross my arms over my chest and glare at him.

“Can we not do this tonight? Can we get along for one damn evening?”

“You tell me. I’m not the one who’s bossy and annoying all the damn time.”

“No, you’re just crazy.”

“Crazy?” I snort, and his lips twitch ever so slightly. “I’m not crazy.”

“Babe, you told that kid you were going to unleash the Kraken on him then went on to tell his friends to get him Gatorade and toast. You’re the definition of crazy.”

He may have a point, but instead of agreeing with him, I turn my head to look out the window and watch the city of Las Vegas slide by.

 

~*~*~

 

“Turn it off. Turn it off,” I croon sleepily as my hand sweeps out in the direction of the noise blaring from the alarm, missing it over and over as the beeping continues to torture me.

“Jesus, shut that shit off.” An arm comes from around me, and silence fills the room as my body freezes and my eyes spring open, only to close again when the room spins.

“Oh, God, why are you in my bed?” I hiss, trying to calm my stomach that feels like it’s getting ready to empty.

“You’re in my bed,” Dillon grumbles, sliding his arm around my waist, pulling my ass back into the crook of his thighs.

“Why am I in your bed?” I breathe as bits and pieces from last night flash through my mind, and none of them are good. None of them at all.

“You wanted to cuddle.” He buries his face in my neck then moves his hand up to cup my breast. I know I don’t have any clothes on when I feel the hair from his thighs tickle mine and his finger runs over my nipple. Oh, God. A memory of me telling him we have so much in common while we both got naked for bed fills my mind, and then another one pops in and my hand flies up to my face.

I force my eyes open, trying to focus, and see it there—the small, plain, white-gold band from the memory of him sliding it on my finger.

“We got married?” I shout, pulling his hand from my breast.

“We got married,” he agrees, not sounding upset, but instead, almost proud.

“Oh shit!” I fly out of the bed and trip over our clothes scattered across the floor, feeling him catch me right before I land on my face.

“Ash, calm down.”

“Calm down? Calm down? Are you insane? We got married last night. Married, Dillon. I got married to a man who is engaged to another woman!” I yell, then cover my mouth. “Oh, God, I’m going to hell. I’m so going to hell for this.”

“I’m not engaged,” he says calmly, giving me a shake.

“I know your fiancée!” I screech, attempting to get away from him, only to have him hold me tighter.

“I’m not fucking with Isla. Now stop with the crazy.”

“You’re not with her?” I stop, and he runs a hand through his hair.

“No,” he states, holding my stare, and my body uncoils just slightly.

“Fine, I’m not going to hell.” I move away from him and resume pacing. “We need to find an attorney. I saw loads of advertisements on the strip. We’ll get one and get this taken care of. It’s no big deal. People get married in Vegas everyday then get divorced. We will just be one of the ninety percent,” I ramble while pacing.

“We are not getting an annulment.”

“Annulment, right.” I snap my fingers. “That’s even better. No one has to know about this.”

“Listen to me.” He grabs onto my shoulders, giving me a shake, and my eyes focus on his. “We are not getting an annulment, or divorced. We got married and are staying that way.”

“Oh, God, you were drugged.” I rest my hands against his chest and drop my voice, “Don’t worry. We’ll go to the hospital and they’ll give you something. Once you’re better, this will all be taken care of.”

“Jesus Christ.” He rubs his hands down his face, tilting his head back to look toward the ceiling. “I’m married to a nut.”

“Hey, that’s not nice.” I plant my hands on my hips. His head drops, his eyes scan the length of me, and I realize I’m naked… that we’re both completely naked. “Dillon.” I take a step back when his eyes meet mine, and his arms swing toward me. “What are you doing?” I shriek, sidestepping him, only to stumble onto the bed, where I attempt to roll. But he flips me to my back, his giant body moving between my legs, and his hands pin my wrists to the mattress over my head. Panting, I look up into his beautiful blue eyes.

“We are not getting a divorce,” he snarls, leaning down so his face is mere centimeters from mine.

“Be rational.” I lift my hips and my arms, trying to throw him off. “You’re obviously on—”

Before I can say more, his head descends and his mouth is covering mine, stealing my breath along with my soul. The feel of his lips, the taste of him on my tongue, ignites something deep inside of me, and I kiss him back with everything I am. Ripping my mouth from his, I pant, “Please let me go.”

“No.” The word sounds almost primal, and I lean up, placing my mouth back against his.

“Please, I want to touch you.”

Groaning, his hands release my wrists, and my palms fly to his chest and slide up and over his shoulders, pulling him closer to me as my legs wrap around the back of his thighs. He kisses me again, this time using his tongue and teeth to torture me in the most beautiful way possible.

“How is it possible you taste as good as you look?” he questions, pulling back, but I have no answer for him. He tastes amazing and having him covering me, his hardness pressing against my softness, is making my brain short-circuit. Palming my breast, he slides his thumb over my nipple, causing my hips to jerk forward. Rolling us again, he settles me on top of him, palms both my breasts, and then leans up, pulling my right nipple into his mouth, releasing it with a pop. “When did you get these?” he questions, flicking the tip with his tongue.

“When I was thirteen.” I smile, and he smiles back then moves to my other breast, doing the same, only sucking harder, almost punishing.

“When?” he asks again, and I know he’s asking about my nipple piercings. I got them with my cousin April a few years back. I wanted a piercing, but needed to be able to look professional to the outside world, so I got both my nipples done with simple, almost elegant-looking gold barbells.

“Three years ago,” I breathe as he tweaks the tiny piece of metal.

“Before me.”

“What?” I try to focus, but every time he touches me, my body gets hotter and my focus depletes. Grabbing my hips, he tugs me forward, dragging my wet center along his length.

“Soaked.” He nips my nipple then wraps his hand into the hair at the back of my head, taking control of my movements as he pulls my mouth to his and thrusts his tongue between my lips. Lost in his kiss and the feel of him between my legs, so close to where I need and want him, I squeak when he flips us over and slides down my body, not giving me a chance to think as his mouth covers me.

“Dillon.” My hands move through his hair and my hips lift off the bed, offering myself up to him without thinking about anything but the way his tongue, lips, and teeth feel as he fucks me with his mouth. “Oh, God. Oh, God, I’m going to come,” I pant, feeling my toes curl into the bedding and my hands grip his hair. The touch of his finger rimming just the inside of my entrance sends me over, shouting his name as I go.

Feeling him kiss my inner thigh then my belly, over my breasts then shoulder, I come back to myself lazily.

“Tell me you want me.” Looking into my eyes while his hand moves between my legs and his fingers slide though my folds, I know I’ll give him anything. “Tell me you want me as badly as I want you.”

“I want you,” I hiss, feeling the very large head of his cock at my entrance, and then watch his eyes drop between us before my eyes do the same, and I know I need to tell him. “I—”

Oh, God, too late… way too late. I bite my lip as he fills me, stretching me.

“Tight, so goddamn tight.” He pushes in farther and his jaw clenches.

“Hold on. Please, hold on,” I breathe, and his body stills above me as his eyes search mine.

“What’s wrong?”

“I just need a minute.” I squeeze my eyes closed, feeling like an idiot.

“Baby.” His fingers slide along my jaw and cheekbone, into my hair. “Do you want to stop?” he asks gently, making tears sting my nose.

“God, no.” He feels good, so good. But he’s huge, way bigger than any of my toys. “You’re just big. So big.” I wiggle my hips and he hisses out a breath, grabbing my waist.

“Don’t say that shit when I’m inside of you,” he groans, dropping his forehead to mine.

“I have to tell you something, but please don’t be mad.”

“Christ, what now?” He pulls back, gritting his teeth.

“Stop being a jerk and let me talk.” I smack his shoulder and he looks down at me, thrusting in another inch.

“Never mind. I don’t want to know.”

“What?” I moan, wrapping my legs around his hips as he slides in a little more.

“If it’s going to piss me off, I don’t want to know.” He slides out then back in, and my back arches off the bed as his thick cock fills every inch of me.

“You’re such a dick!” I cry out as he tosses my leg over his shoulder, changing the angle of his thrust.

“I don’t give a fuck about that either.” He drops his mouth, covering mine and stealing my reply—not that I have time to think about that as his mouth leisurely travels down my neck to my breast, which he pulls and sucks until I’m once again shouting his name and hearing mine groaned from his lips as we both come.

until-ashlyn-teaser-3

4 Star

Michel’s Review

The Mayson Boom has struck once again.  This time the Boom was a slow build to a massive romantic explosion and defied the Mayson Alpha Daddies commands.  Cash Mayson’s darling little princess went to Vegas and came home a married woman.  It didn’t matter that he and Lily liked her perspective Alpha husband.  Dr. Dillion Keck stole his little girl without apology or regret.  A man has to respect the man who has the guts and the nerve to defy the Mayson law and follow his heart.

Ashlyn Mayson could not stand her gorgeous, sexy boss.  He ruled the practice with absolute power and complete control.  When he demands she attend a dental convention in Vegas with him, she’s determined to have a good time just to spite him.  What she didn’t count on was having “too good of a time” and ending up married after a drunken night.  Returning home a married woman is going to send her family into a tizzy.  Being married to Dr. Dick might be a nightmare or it may be what dreams are made of.  Ashlyn is suddenly seeing a different side to the man she married.  Sure he’s a pure alpha male just like her daddy but he is also a man with a heart of gold.  Being Mrs. Keck might not be too bad.

Ashlyn thought facing her family after her sudden marriage was the worst thing that could happen when she returned home.  As difficult as that seemed to be there were other things brewing that made her marriage look like a walk in the park.  Now she has to deal with Dillion’s crazy ex fiancé, new in laws, and someone who wants her dead.  As if a new marriage wasn’t enough on her plate.  Thank goodness she married an alpha man that will always protect her.

The release of Until Ashlyn by Aurora Rose Reynolds was perfectly timed during the holiday season.  Reading this book was like catching up with old friends and family.  It can be read as a stand alone novel but I would highly suggest reading The Until Series, the Until Her series, and the Until Him series first.  I believe readers will enjoy this book more if they are familiar with the Mayson family and all the characters in their lives.

Another great BOOM from Aurora Rose Reynolds!

_____________________________________

aurora rose reynolds

About Aurora Rose Reynolds

aurora rose reynoldsAurora Rose Reynolds is a navy brat who’s husband served in the United States Navy. She has lived all over the country but now resides in New York City with her Husband and pet fish. She’s married to an alpha male that loves her as much as the men in her books love their women. He gives her over the top inspiration everyday. In her free time she reads, writes and enjoys going to the movies with her husband and cookie. She also enjoys taking mini weekend vacations to nowhere, or spends time at home with friends and family. Last but not least she appreciates everyday and admires it’s beauty.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

until-ashlyn-cover

Release Blitz + Excerpt + 2016 Favorite + 5 Star Review + Giveaway: For All The Evers by Debra Anastasia

 

 

Title: For All the Evers
Author: Debra Anastasia
Genre: Romance
Release Date: December 18, 2016
Blurb

Fallen Billow should be in college like most of her friends, but instead she’s raising her brother and working as a housekeeper at a vintage local hotel. It’s back-breaking work, but not nearly as challenging as fending off unwanted advances from the hotel’s owner.Thomas McHugh is fighting for our country, across the globe and decades before Fallen Billow was even born. So there’s no way they’re soul mates. There’s no way he can be desperate to see her, hold her, kiss her. Except there is.Is it a dream when he inks his name on her skin? Is it a delusion when she puts her hands on his face and says she loves him? Nothing has ever felt more real.

Fate has etched paths for Thomas and Fallen that even time cannot touch. A Purple Heart proclaims Thomas’ valor and bravery. And his death. But Fallen dares to dream of the impossible. She wants Thomas to stay. Just stay.

A tribute to all who have served our country, this novel honors the impossible beauty of love and the endless power of hope. Come open your heart and celebrate the many facets of bravery with Fallen and Thomas.

Debra Anastasia has created a
website for Thomas McHugh – the veteran the book is in honor of.
(It is recommended readers look at this website after reading the book)

Purchase Links
AMAZON US / UK / CA / AU
Available in Kindle Unlimited
Trailer
Excerpt

“I bet you were adorable.” He put his knuckle under her chin and encouraged her to lift her head. She rolled back over and settled against his shoulder.“I don’t want to be adorable. I want to be impossible.”

“How do you mean?” He kissed her forehead.

“I want to be impossible for you to forget, impossible for you to keep your hands off of.” She leaned up for a kiss.

“You’re my impossible then. Have no fear.” He tenderly reminded her he was her impossible, too, with his lips.

She put her hand against his stomach and snuggled in. “This is my spot. Right here. With you—it’s home.”

He swallowed before talking to the ceiling. “My heart was like a fist. Where I am? It’s not a place you plan to survive. I’ve been there for years, and it’s not about skill; it’s not even about luck. You get strapped into a machine, and fate’s driving. You can’t get out even if you want to. So you submit to it. You harden your soul. You get ready to die.”

He shifted, rolling on top of her. She sighed in contentment. Being beneath him made her feel safe and secure.

He kissed her lips, then the tip of her nose, before continuing. “But with you, it’s like my heart’s opening up, and I’m terrified to feel, after all this time. Yet I don’t have a choice. No matter where I am, I draw your face whenever I get a scrap of paper.”

He laughed a little. “We found a puppy, and I named it Fallen, just so I could say your name over and over. The guys think I’m crazy—such a strange name for a dog. But I don’t care. I’m gasping for you every moment I’m awake. And I’m making choices to keep me alive through the week.”

His eyes searched hers. “What if I’m not as tough as I was in the beginning? God, I hope no one is affected by my distraction with this. But in the end there’s you. Only you. Do what you have to to get back to me when you’re awake. You have to. I need you more than air, more than life right now. The softness of you, the tenderness in your eyes when you see me. I’m trying to force fate to throw me in your direction. To hurl me at you somehow. I don’t know if it will work. But I’m praying for it.”

Fallen touched his face, then his neck. “I will do everything I can to find you.”

 ___________________________________

SBJ2016Favorite

5Star+

Michel’s Review

A few months ago a fellow book junkie and I were having a discussion about our favorite authors.  Debra Anastasia was one that popped up on both of our list.  As the discussion about Debra’s books became more detailed, we realized that Debra was one that stood out among our favorites.  She has a special gift with creating compelling characters that are outside of the norm in most romance novels.  Each one of her novels is completely different and stands on it’s own merit.  It cannot be compared to anything.  Debra not only creates compelling characters with very unique stories, she also adds a range of emotional moments infused with humor, compassion, and honesty.  Her creativity has left readers enthralled with their reading experience.  Who else could create a charismatic homeless guy, a lovable ruthless crime lord, a saintly priest with an inner tiger, a blogger held hostage by a farting bad guy, a super mommy exacting revenge, and panty dropping pharmacist? This time around Debra has really dug deep and delivered a story that is not only personal for her but gives an unfinished hero his happily ever after in a very unique way. After reading  For All The Evers, I was in awe of Debra’s writing talent.

***

For All The Evers by Debra Anastasia may be considered a paranormal romance or a time travel romance.  It really didn’t fit quite right in either category.  It was in a class by itself.  The hero, Thomas McHugh, was a veteran who perished in WWII.  The heroine, Fallen Billow, was a modern day young woman struggling to make ends meet in a very dysfunctional family.  Their romance was defined by the dream world and Room 514 at the hotel where Fallen worked.  To add to the mystic, Fallen’s boss, who is all kinds of scary and sexually harasses her at work, is able to stalk her in the dream world.  Her dream world is colliding with the real world.  The only friends she has is two old ladies from very different era’s and experiences.

***

Fallen and Thomas find a love they never expected.  They know that their relationship is realistically doomed.  Their worlds will never be fused together. The seventy year difference is not the only thing in the way of their happily ever after.  Fate has already played her card, Thomas died in the war.

***

Their worlds are out of sync and their hearts beat as one.

***

I will not say much more because this is a book that must be read and experienced personally.  The one thing I will say is that Thomas McHugh was a real man who died a hero in WWII.  He was Debra’s great uncle.  She shared him with the world.  She made him timeless.

Green old wooden door opening with light shining through and red rose hanging from an old key

Green old wooden door opening with light shining through and red rose hanging from an old key

_______________________________________

 

Author Bio

Debra creates pretend people in her head and paints them on the giant, beautiful canvas of your imagination. What an amazing job that is. The stories hit her hard while driving the minivan or shaving her legs, especially when there’s no paper and pen around. In all of the lies she writes she hides her heart, so thank you for letting it play in your mind.Debra has now published the Seraphim Series, the Poughkeepsie Brotherhood Series, the Gynazule Series, The Revenger and Booty Camp Dating Service. Her novella, Late Night with Andres is special because 100% of the proceeds go to breast cancer research. (So go get it right now, please!) For All The Evers is her latest romantic suspense.

You can find her at DebraAnastasia.com and on Twitter @Debra_Anastasia. But be prepared…

Author Links

 

There is a giveaway for signed paperback of For All the Evers and Saving Poughkeepsie, signed hand crafter holiday ornaments, Booty Camp Dating Service ring, Poughkeepsie lip balm and cardboard keychain, and XL One More Chapter t-shirt

 

New Release + Review + Giveaway: Bestie by Bella Jewel – Joker’s Wrath MC – Book 5

 

 

Title: Bestie
Series: Jokers Wrath MC
Author: Bella Jewel
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Release Date: December 13, 2016
Blurb

From USA Today Bestselling Author Bella Jewel comes a new novel in the international bestselling Jokers Wrath MC Series. The universe works in mysterious ways.Well, it did for me, anyway.

It was like it knew that I needed him.

It put him in my life during a time I honestly thought I couldn’t go on.

He was broken. I was broken.

We only had one thing to offer each other – friendship.

A true, deep, incredible friendship.

Laughter fixed us.

Talking bonded us.

He quickly became my everything.

This is our story.

I can’t promise it’s always perfect.

It might make you laugh.

It might make you cry.

It might even make you love.

It’s real.

It’s us. Besties.

 **Contains Adult Themes – This book can be read as a standalone**

Purchase Links

AMAZON US / UK / CA / AU
B&N / KOBO / iBOOKS

JOKERS WRATH MC SERIES

BUY HERE

4 Star
Michel’s Review
Bestie by Bella Jewel is not the typical romance.  This book starts on a very painful note.  Any one who has been through a shattering heartbreak can relate to both Molly and Roman’s feelings.  Moving on seems impossible when the heart is hanging onto what could have been.  It’s hard to look at the relationship objectively.  It’s hard to accept the rejection.  It is devastating to have your love rejected.  It’s even more devastating when your love isn’t returned.  There is no magic formula that makes the devastation less painful.  It takes time and moral support from those who love you.  Eventually life begins to look a bit brighter.  The heart break shapes one into a stronger person.
***
Molly and Roman are both dealing with heartbreak.  They accidentally found one another and found the support they needed in the rawest of times.  Together they faced the healing process even though not at the same pace.
***
Fate is a funny thing. The old saying when one door closes another one opens is absolutely true.  Molly and Roman were destined to be in one another’s lives.  They were destined for a greater love than they could imagine.
***
Bella Jewel did a wonderful job with this story.  I felt their pain.  I remembered my own personal heart breaks and could easily relate to the journey both these injured souls experienced.  I also loved how they found the real deal in the end.

 

Author Bio

Bella Jewel is a self published, USA
Today bestselling author. She’s been publishing since 2013. Her first release
was a contemporary romance, Hell’s Knights which topped the charts upon
release. Since that time, she has published over five novels, gaining a
bestseller status on numerous platforms. She lives in North Queensland and is
currently studying editing and proofreading to further expand her career. Bella
has been writing since she was just shy of fifteen years old. In Summer 2013
she was offered an ebook deal through Montlake Romance for her bestselling
modern day pirate series, Enslaved By The Ocean. She plans to expand her
writing career, planning many new releases for the future.

Author Links
Giveaway

New Release + 5 Star Review: Wild Zone by Skye Jordan – Rough Riders Hockey Series – Book 4

51ntdoy2icl

Wild Zone

Rough Riders Hockey Series – Book 4

By Skye Jordan

Buy: Amazon

Synopsis

From the New York Times bestselling author who brought you the scorchingly sexy stuntmen of Renegades–Skye Jordan delivers another sizzling series starring her mouthwatering brand of high-octane heroes. Introducing the Rough Riders’ Hockey Series. “The intense, tight-knit men of the Rough Riders’ hockey team will win readers over in a heartbeat.” ~Marina Adair, #1 Bestselling Author

Tate “The Saint” Donovan’s jaded outlook really makes him more of a devil’s advocate. Ever since he discovered his ex-wife doing more in their bedroom than rooting for the home team, he’s given up on finding The One. In fact, he’s given up on finding Any One. So he isn’t surprised when his teammate’s engagement party is one mishap away from going up in flames—until a sexy, free spirit whisks in from Paris and drags the party from the fire. She’s whimsical, wild, and oh so wrong, but her breezy, freestyle attitude makes her utterly irresistible. Tate’s halo slips. He takes a walk on the wild side. And discovers wrong has never felt so right.

With big plans on the horizon, Olivia’s laissez faire attitude toward men is a perfect pairing. She’s drawn to Tate’s wounded soul, and the protective warrior beneath his brooding mask intrigues her…right into bed. Olivia quickly realizes the possessive passion he brings to the bedroom is like nothing she’s ever experienced, and her feelings for Tate turns her take-it-or-leave-it style love life on its head.

With her return to Paris imminent and his grueling hockey season approaching, Olivia and Tate must face the possibility that they are destined to be nothing more than star-crossed lovers.

******

5Star

Michel’s Review

The Rough Riders Hockey team is on a winning streak.  Wild Zone, the fourth book in the series has scored a winning goal.

Tate Donovan has been down for the past year since his ugly divorce.  He found out his wife had cheated on him throughout his marriage.  His marriage was based on lies and deception.  Tate is the kind of man that believes in strong family values and committed relationships.  He is not a one night stand kind of guy even though his buddies and teammates are encouraging him to do so.  He’s not interested in dating as well until he meets Olivia Essex.

Olivia has come home to DC for a visit with her family before she starts culinary school in Paris.  She has spent the last ten years globe trotting around the world working with famous chefs and 5 star restaurants.  She’s ready to get her chef certification and run her own kitchen.  Her vacation turns into a stressful visit with her family.  The tensions that made her leave home ten years earlier have elevated into hostile emotions and resentful feelings.  Olivia loves her family and is hurt by their actions.  She would do anything for them but what they want of her she cannot give.  They want her to sacrifice her future for their failing events business.  She was under the impression it was successful until she returned home and found out the truth.  The only thing good about this visit is the sexy hockey player, Tate Donovan, who she met at one of her family’s events.

Tate has met a woman that has captured his interest.  She’s a free spirit with a heart of gold.  He has to make the choice of taking a chance at something wonderful for a short amount of time or missing out on something because he was too stubborn to let go of the past.

Tate and Olivia are pure magic together.  To say opposites attract seems too easy, in this case opposites bring out the very best in one another.  They both have to let go of their trust issues and figure out what is best for them both.

Skye Jordan did an excellent job with this book.  The range of emotions between Olivia and Tate, Olivia and her family, and Tate conquering his past hurts had me reeling.  I loved both of their dynamic personalities and their explosive relationship.  Wild Zone was a big win in the Rough Riders series!

_________________________________________

Joan Author PhotoSkye Jordan is a pseudonym for New York Times bestselling romantic suspense author Joan Swan. Skye’s novels are about enjoying that little wild streak we don’t let out often enough. About those fantasies we rarely get the opportunity to indulge. About stretching limits, checking out the dark side, and maybe even acting a little naughty. They’re about escape and fun and pleasure and romance. And, yes, even love, because while wicked-great sex is good, happily ever after with wicked-great sex is even better.

When she’s not writing, Skye loves to read, knit, craft, row, ride, and dabble in photography.

 Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

51ntdoy2icl

Release Blitz + 5 Star Review: Max by Sawyer Bennett – Cold Fury Hockey Series – Book 6

max

Max

Cold Fury Hockey Series – Book 6

By Sawyer Bennett

Buy: Amazon / B & N / IBooks / Kobo

Synopsis

The Carolina Cold Fury’s hot new star shows his bad-boy teammates that even nice guys can score big in this steamy hockey romance from the bestselling author of Ryker and Hawke (“Sexy, emotional, and fantastic!” —Sandi Lynn).

The ice is a cold mistress. As the league’s most eligible goalie, Max Fournier has access to his fair share of willing puck bunnies, but right now he’s more interested in bringing home another championship than a one-night stand. A romantic at heart, Max believes in love; he’s just not great at relationships. So when he finally meets a nice girl who’s not blinded by his celebrity, he’s feeling the heat—and the pressure to save her from herself.

Between working two jobs and raising her sister’s kids, Julianne Bradley doesn’t have time for sports—or men. All she knows about Max is that he’s the sexiest customer to ever grace her gas-station counter. And he sees past her tired eyes and makes Jules yearn for things she can’t have: a glamorous fling, a passionate lover, and the time to enjoy both. Max makes her feel like Cinderella, even though Jules has enough baggage to crush a glass slipper. Luckily, he’s no prince—only a fierce competitor determined to win her heart.

bestbbyet

5Star

Michel’s Review

The Cold Fury Hockey team is back on the pages and playing with our hearts once again. Up on the roster is the prince charming of the team. Goalie Max Fournier, the guardian of the net, is doing more than deterring pucks.  He’s scoring big in our hearts.

Max is one of the most eligible bachelors in the league. Unlike most of his single teammates, he’s not a player.  He doesn’t want the puck bunnies or easy hookups.  He believes in love and lasting relationships.  At this time in his life he’s not looking for a potential relationship. His focus is on his career as a goalie.  His love of the game keeps him focused on his goals.  Fresh off of an injury, he’s ready to get back on the ice without any distractions and play the best hockey he has ever played.  He wasn’t expecting a new distraction when he stopped at a convenience store for a snack.  A woman that could very well be a game changer.

Julianne is working two jobs to make ends meet.  She is raising her sister’s children.  Her life is consuming her.  She barely has time to sleep let alone any me time.  Forget about dating, romance, and relationships.  When she meets Max Fournier, she knows she has encountered something special.

Max and Jules have found something special.  They seem to fit perfectly.  Their relationship isn’t perfect but it is magical in many ways.  They are both determined people with very big hearts.  Their little squabbles and pure determination kept me enchanted with their relationship.  They were a very real couple working on a very realistic relationship.

Sawyer Bennett has once again delivered an enchanting romance that had me swooning.  Max Fournier has stolen my heart and become my favorite Cold Fury Hockey player.

I can’t wait for the next Cold Fury bad boy to steal my heart.

prince

__________________________________________

 About the Author

sawyer bennettUSA Today Best-Selling author, Sawyer Bennett, is a snarky southern woman and reformed trial lawyer who decided to finally start putting on paper all of the stories that were floating in her head. She is married to a mobster (well, a market researcher) and they have two big, furry dogs who hog the bed. Sawyer would like to report she doesn’t have many weaknesses but can be bribed with a nominal amount of milk chocolate.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

max

Release Blitz + 5 Star Review : Jaded Hearts by Harper Sloan – Loaded Replay Series – Book 1

jheartsbanner

 

jadedhearts_frontcover_lores

Jaded Hearts

Loaded Replay Series – Book 1

By Harper Sloan

Buy: Amazon

 

 

jadedhearts_frontcover_loresSigning with Brighthouse Records was supposed to be everything we ever wanted—our better life. Our chance at everything we never had but always wanted. All our dreams would finally come true and we were on top of the world. It was our chance at the happiness we never had in life.

Our every desire was at our fingertips and the power of that feeling was all consuming. But then it took every dream we thought would come true and it slapped us in the face with the cold hard reality.

Dreams were just that…something that floated on the cusp of untouchable, taunting you with every graze of your fingertips before slipping even further away.

Happiness…that feeling is a joke.

In the end it became painfully obvious that each of us would always have each other, but we would forever be alone.

 

 

Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon CA | Amazon AU | Nook | Kobo | iTunes

 

2-insane-life

Goddamn, that smile is dangerous.

Who am I kidding? He is dangerous.

I do my best to ignore him, but it’s impossible. The steady brush of his arm against where mine is resting on our shared armrest constantly reminds me how much my body wants his touch. The scent of his delicious cologne hits my senses, making me want to climb in his lap and rub my face over his chest to get a potent lungful of it.

I can’t even remember the last time I was this horny, which is pathetically sad, since it was probably around the same time I actually got laid. Years. I think. Close to three. Maybe that’s why I’m a hot mess lately. I turn my head to study the side of his face and wonder if I can use this situation to my advantage. I mean, after all, we are in a ‘relationship’ now.

He turns and gives me a questioning arch of his dark brows, but I brush it off in favor of playing Disney Emoji Blitz on my phone.

By the time we had hit cruising altitude, I could hear the other men around me snoring away but not Chance. He’s fiddling with his phone, completely ignorant of the fact I’m about to start humping his leg.

“Excuse me,” I breathily say, unbuckling my belt and standing to move around him. I stand there, my head bent slightly because of the overhead, and wait. He doesn’t move, though. Instead, he drops his phone to his lap and gives me his complete attention; his eyes even dance a little like he’s finding this whole damn thing funny. “Excuse me,” I repeat, no longer breathy, and seconds away from coming.

No, that’s a lie. I’m still breathy and very much seconds away from soaking my panties even more than they already are.

His large hands grab my hips, and he guides me down on his lap with no resistance from my treacherous body.

“Not what I meant,” I say through clenched teeth, trying to sound harsh and offended, but I just sound dazed and turned on. I wiggle in his hold, trying to get free, but he’s too strong for me.

He leans up in his seat, his chest hitting my back and buries his face in my neck. I’m sure anyone who saw us would see a loving couple who just can’t keep their hands to themselves. He’s playing a dangerous game, though, because the second the solid, hard length of him presses against my backside, I forget this is supposed to be a game and squirm a little more. His teeth nip at my shoulder at the same time his groan hits my ears.

“Stop moving, Wren,” he demands, tightening his fingers on my hips.

“You’re the one who put me on your lap.” I curl my fingers over the empty seat in front of me and squeeze my eyes shut when I feel him growing harder under me.

“Yeah, because the flight attendant who just walked by had her phone out and pointed right at us. She’s doing a shit job of making it look like she’s doing something with her paperwork.” His hand comes off my hip, and he cups my jaw, turning my head to the side just when I was about to look up at where I last saw the attendant, forcing me to shift until all it would take is me throwing one leg over his body to be face-to-face. “Do not look at her,” he stresses; the sudden movement of twisting my body makes me bounce slightly in his lap, rubbing my legging-clad ass against his erection. His eyes drop to my mouth where I pull my bottom lip between my teeth and groan.

“Give me a reason not to look,” I dare him.

“You don’t want to go down that road, Wren. I’ll protect you from the world, but you need to protect yourself from me.”

“No one is asking you to.”

Not even knowing if we’re still being watched, I twist my torso the rest of the way, pulling my legs up until they’re bent at his stomach between us. Now that I’m facing him completely, I bring my hands up to curl them both around his shoulders before dragging them up to wrap around the corded muscles at the sides of his neck. His nostrils flare, but he doesn’t stop me. I give him the chance, but it never comes. Dropping my head, I press my lips to his. I explore his lips with small pecks and little licks of my tongue, learning his mouth before pressing more firmly. He sucks in a breath when I open my mouth and slowly drag the tip of my tongue over his bottom lip.

And then his control snaps.

His hands—still at my hips—lift me effortlessly until my legs are no longer folded between us, but now digging into the hard armrests with my knees pushing into his thighs, my back hitting the seat in front of me. His mouth opens, and his tongue meets mine, no hesitation whatsoever, as he deepens the kiss.

Our breathing echoes around us, making it sound like everyone on this plane could hear us, but I know it’s just because our faces are so close. I let out a moan, one that he swallows, that turns into a whine when he pulls back.

“That can’t happen again,” he softly scolds, just as breathless as I am.

What the hell? I might not have been into this whole fake-boyfriend-slash-bodyguard thing before, but I’ll be damned if I’m not going to take advantage of the situation. Especially now that I know how alive he makes me feel. Three years since I had pleasure from anything other than my own hand, and if that kiss is anything to go by, what Chance could make me feel is ten times more powerful than anything I’ve ever felt in my whole life.

I’m not passing that up.

Nope.

No fucking way.

“We’ll see about that.”

 

3-chance

____________________________________

5Star

Michel’s Review

Harper Sloan has an exciting new series out!  Loaded Replay is a rock star series that is loosely tied to the Corps Series and the Hope Town Series.  This new series features the members of the band Loaded Replay.  Jaded Hearts is the first book in this sensational new series.

This multi platinum band has reached super stardom throughout the world.  For the past few years they have been touring non stop after releasing five multi platinum albums.  The price of fame is starting to take it’s toll on all of the members.  Their record company is demanding more than they can give. The media follows them every where they go. The fans are becoming obsessive.  Some fans have taken obsessive to another level and it has become downright dangerous for Wrenlee Davenport, lead singer for Loaded Replay.  The security the record company has provided isn’t doing their job.  They are only on duty when they are playing venues or doing PR appearances to promote the label.  It’s time to up their security.  The other members of the band have decided to bring in an outside security company.  One of the prospective security companies is Corps Security.  Chance Nash ( from the Hope Town series) has been sent to represent Corps Security.

The moment Chance Nash enters Loaded Replay’s hotel suite he takes complete charge. He takes control of the reporter interviewing Wrenlee and puts a quick stop to the underhanded ploys the reporter is planning to get more of a story than Wrenlee bargained for.  Wrenlee is intrigued with this powerful man that demands her attention.

Wrenlee is a very jaded soul.  She has trouble putting her trust in people outside the band. She has very valid reasons.  Throughout her childhood she suffered from neglect and verbal abuse from her parents.  Her relationships have been just as bad.  Her last boyfriend used her for her connections in the music industry.  Chance Nash is changing the way she looks at life.  She has finally found a man she can completely trust, a man who’s only objective is to take care of her.

Chance Nash is still reeling from an incident that almost cost his best friend’s wife her life.  He takes his job very seriously.  When his heart becomes involved it changes the game.  He will never let anything happen to the woman he loves.  He’s willing to sacrifice his job and his life if necessary.

Not only is Wrenlee learning to trust and believe in love once again, she is also beginning to take control of her personal life.  It’s time for changes.

The band is also beginning to make changes in their own lives and careers.  It’s a new beginning for Loaded Replay.

I absolutely loved Jaded Hearts.  All of the characters in Loaded Replay were special in their own way.  The dynamics between the band was loving, fun, and emotional.  I loved that Chance Nash finally got his happily ever after.  Harper Sloan has another sensational series to add to her accomplishments.  I can’t wait to see what comes next for Loaded Replay.

_____________________________________

 

 

 

harper1Harper is a NEW YORK TIMES, WALL STREET JOURNAL and USA TODAY bestselling author residing in Georgia with her husband and three daughters. She has a borderline unhealthy obsession with books, hibachi, tattoos and Game of Thrones. When she isn’t writing you can almost always find her with a book in hand.

Facebook | Website | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest | Goodreads | Amazon Author Page

Release Blitz + Excerpt + 5 Star Review: Dark Surrender by Rachel Van Dyken – The Dark Ones Saga – Book 3

dark_surrender_release_blitz

dark_surrender_live

dark-surrender

 

Dark Surrender is LIVE and only $1.99! So snag this complete paranormal stand alone and read all about why having a male siren try to seduce you isn’t all it’s cracked up to be!

***

Dark Surrender

The Dark Ones Saga – Book 3

By Rachel Van Dyken

Buy: Amazon / B & N / IBooks / Kobo

Amazon UK / Amazon CA / Amazon AU

Synopsis

Complete Stand Alone/No Cliffhanger

Never met a male siren before?
You’re about to….

I grew up as a prince…
And lead the life of a King.
There isn’t anyone or anything that doesn’t want me, that isn’t attracted to me. They can’t help it. And I sure as hell don’t want them to. I live for their lust, I crave touch like an addiction, I make them beg on their knees for one, simple, caress.
As a male siren it’s my job to feed off emotion.
And I was happy to do it.
I am happy to do it.
What I’m not happy about? Being told I have to mate with some withering human and stay loyal to that one person for the next few centuries. There’s a war coming and being the idiot I am–I offered to take one for the team in order to help a friend.
Now my sexual appetite is taking a freaking kick in the nuts.
And I’m left wondering if it’s worth it.
If she’s worth it, with messy hair and dirty human hands.
But I have a world to save.
A job to do.
Now, if only, she would just let me do it rather than fighting me at every turn. I’ve lived lifetimes as the most irresistible being on the planet.
Only to meet my match.
With one.
Measly.
Human.
They say hells hot. They’re wrong.
Because Hope, my little human, is way hotter.
And before this is over–she may just singe me alive.

 

dark-surrender-teaser-4

Excerpt

To say I was pissed.

To say I was angry

To say I was intrigued.

I couldn’t decide which emotion was going to win out, which made her all the more exciting. Sirens, for the most part, kept their physical appearance at a five. On a scale of one to ten, a five meant that you were clearly above average but not to the point that a person would literally sell a kidney and spleen in order to sleep with you.

No, the selling of body parts came at six.

Seven meant they were willing to commit a crime and sell body parts.

Eight was when they neared the wailing stage. I typically called it bartering, where they asked what they could possibly do in order to gain just one taste, anything, anything at all!

Nine was a rarity. I was a nine when I was tired, when I wanted a piece of ass from someone hot, and I didn’t want to make a big fuss over it. But a nine was dangerous because showing myself at a nine made it easier to wipe the individuals’ memories. Meaning I was more than likely cursing them to a life where they would never settle down because they’d be stuck comparing me to some sad human male with a beer gut, and he’d always fall short.

Even the Toms fell short.

Tom Brady.

Tom Hardy.

You get the picture.

In my entire existence, I’ve pulled a nine maybe four times. And each time I felt regretful — after all the sex had never been worthy of ruining some pathetic human’s chance at love.

And tens?

Tens weren’t done. To become a ten in front of a human would be the equivalent of a human discovering the sweetest tasting sin, the most physical and emotional ecstasy known over and over again. Add that in with good looks that made women, men, plants, atoms — you get the picture — full-on weep, and it just wasn’t done.

Never.

In fact, some might say it was forbidden.

I’d never been tempted.

Until five minutes ago.

I was currently at an eight, flirting with a ten, and she’d finally succumbed enough to fall to her knees, but when she glanced up, she blinked a few times then stood. “Sorry, I don’t know what happened.”

The hell?

I did a double take, my eyes narrowing as she shuddered before me, but still, nothing. No weeping. No sudden burst of adoration.

Nine, here I come.

I exhaled as I allowed my hair to go pure gold and my eyes to turn a shade of amber that looked like a never-ending ring of fire around my blue iris. I released waves of energy that I could see pulsing from my body with each exhale, and I was aware that she was being assaulted with my scent, a mixture of rain, fresh air, and finally a deep sweet chocolate.

The most addicting scents known to mankind.

The most cleansing scents to a human.

Her eyes widened as she gulped and then squeezed them shut and covered her face with her hands, her knees knocked together as she swayed.

“Open your eyes, human!”

“I-I’d rather not,” she said in a weak voice.

“Now!” The walls of the room shook causing a shriek to explode between her lips, and suddenly she was moving towards me and launching her plump body into the air.

Directly onto mine.

Mine.

My body.

Without any other option, I braced myself for her impact. Not that she could physically harm me, it was more of a mental brace of, oh shit the woman might be plump, but she moved with the speed of a torpedo.

I caught her in my arms.

The shaking stopped.

Her hands clung to the front of my shirt, her breathing was unsteady, her body sweaty, hot, and curvy.

I appreciated all types of beauty.

Even hers.

I would have preferred a small mate, one that I could terrify into submission — one I had no risk of falling in love with.

Because a siren in love — was a dangerous thing.

And a part of me wondered if that was what Cassius had planned all along. In order for me to be at my strongest, I needed to be in love.

Something I’d never experienced in all of my years of living, screwing, and toying with males and females alike.

“What.” I gave her a menacing glare. “The hell, do you think you’re doing?”

“I’m scared of earthquakes,” she whispered, licking her lips repeatedly until I thought I was going to go mad with the motion of her tongue sliding across the pink of her mouth. “Terrified, actually.”

“This is Seattle.” I was still holding her, for reasons beyond my realm of understanding.

“They say the next earthquake is going to be really big and half of downtown is going to slide into the Puget Sound, so excuse me for being scared!”

“And you live downtown?”

“Well… no.” Her brown eyes focused in on mine.

“Then you must visit there often?”

“No.”

I sighed impatiently. “So your fears are completely unfounded and illogical. Simply stop fearing it.”

“Easy for you to say.”

“I tire of holding you, human.” The lie fell easy; in fact, I had forgotten I was holding her until she fidgeted in my arms like she was the offended party, when I was the one who had just been assaulted. “The only thing you need to fear is me.”

“Because you…” She sighed. “You’re going to sacrifice me?”

I tried to hold the laugh in.

But it was all too ridiculous.

“Yes.” I nodded seriously, my lips twitching with the urge to smile. “The process will be painless. I’ll tie your hands and feet to the bedposts — strip you naked, and then plunge an immortal sword into your heart. You’ll need to repeat the words ut animam meam and then once you drink my blood — if it accepts you, you will live.”

Her face paled as she struggled to get out of my arms.

And then I lost it, dropping her back to her feet, laughing so hard I felt my body shook with it.

“I don’t even remember the phrase!” Her wild eyes darted between me and the bed, clearly not catching on. Joke. It was a joke.

“Well,” I lifted a shoulder and shrugged. “Then I guess you die.”

“But—”

“Better do it quickly, less pain that way.”

“What about the plants?”

My smile froze. “Either you’re extremely simple minded or mentally ill. What the hell are you talking about?”

“The—” She tugged at her low ponytail. “The plants, you know, around the grounds. I take care of them and Cassius—” Her eyes lit up. “Cassius said I was getting a promotion, so sorry, but you can’t kill me.”

I grinned. “Okay.”

She frowned.

I was still confused how she was shielding herself from my essence, but already I was mentally drained from the energy it took to get her to worship me — instead I returned to my normal everyday state and held out my hand.

She stared at it.

“Take my hand.”

“No.” She swallowed. “I think I’ll just wait for Cassius.”

“He’s already mated.”

Her eyes narrowed. “I’m not mating him.”

“No.” This, this was my favorite part, watching humans try to logically put together all of the pieces of the puzzle only to realize their brains were too small to comprehend the different parts they held, the angles, the colors, “You’re going to mate with me.”

I expected her to cry.

Maybe throw something.

Instead, she froze and then with a scream ran head first directly into my body sending me sailing backward against the marble floor.

I was caught unaware.

Meaning, I barely had time to stop myself before my head slammed back against the hard ground.

She tried to run toward the door.

“Cat and mouse.” I sighed from my position on the ground. “I always did like foreplay.”

She jerked against the doors with fervor, I’d give her that, but they wouldn’t budge.

Not until she was mine.

Not until the doors sensed my blood running through her veins.

“Why won’t it open?” Her voice was strangled as pieces of her hair fell out of its restraint and brushed against her shoulders. “You can’t keep me here forever.”

“I can.” I yawned. “I will.”

dark-surrender-teaser-3

____________________________________

5Star

Michel’s Review

No matter what genre Rachel Van Dyken writes, it is always an entertaining and thrilling read.  The Dark Ones Saga is a unique paranormal series with werewolves, angels, vampires, elves, sirens, and demons teaming together to fight the evil forces. The unique cast of characters contributing their special gifts makes this series stand out.  Each book in this series can be read as a stand alone novel or in series order. I would highly recommend reading these books in order.

Alex, the last male siren, has willingly sacrificed himself for the team.  He must mate.  As a siren this sacrifice is beyond the call of duty.  Sirens are self serving, egotistical creatures.  They don’t understand emotional connections or loving relationships.  Alex has never felt that connection.  He has always sought out the physical pleasures that come from sex but never sought out the emotional connections.  When he met Hope he never expected to find the one thing he never knew he was searching for.  But what will happen when Alex’s own darkness begins to surface?  Will he succumb to the darkness or will he fight the darkness for the chance of love?  Will he be able to overcome the darkness and face the evil that could overtake him?  Hope is the only thing he has to hang onto.

Hope is an unexpected pleasure in Alex’s life.  Hope, a botanist, sees the good in others but doesn’t give herself the same kind of insight.  She suffers from feelings of abandonment from her past.  Although Hope seems a bit meek and a little too sweet, she is not a pushover.  She has an inner strength that is admirable.  She can handle Alex with perfection.  It’s more than her blood that calls to Alex.

As the forces collide, good verses evil, Alex’s and Hope’s relationship will be tested.

Rachel Van Dyken delivered another great story.  I loved Alex and Hope’s journey to happiness.  I love the build up heading towards the final battle against evil.  I can’t wait to see what comes next in The Dark Ones Saga.

dark-surrender-teaser-1

51gu4rnkwyl-_sy346_

The Dark Ones 

Book 1

FREE

Amazon / B & N / IBooks / Kobo

Synopsis

To touch a Dark One is death.
To talk to an immortal is suicide.
Yet, I’ve been marked by both.
A Vampire.
And the King of the immortals.
My life is no longer my own.
And now I know the truth, my life was never mine to begin with.
It was theirs.
It’s always been theirs.__

****

51dy60hp-cl

Untouchable Darkness

Book 2

Buy: Amazon / B & N / IBooks / Kobo

Synopsis

To love a Dark One is to invite death…

It is wrong to love her.
It is worse to want her.
It is sin to consume her.
I desire all three.

I’ve been given thirty days to prove my love to another immortal–as a human. Cursed to use nothing but the side of myself I’ve always despised to win her affection. I am Cassius, the King of the immortals, A Dark One.
And today I tasted fear for the first time.
How can I win her when my human emotions over take every ounce of logic I possess?
A darkness is brewing.
One I cannot stop as a human.
One that Stephanie, my loves visions, have shown, will be my end.
Thirty days ago I was King of the immortals.
Today I know fear.
Today I know how I will die.
By her hand.
The woman I love.

_________________________________________

rachel-van-dykenRachel 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!

 

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

New Release + Review : Hooked by Brenda Rothert

hookedbannerblogtour

 

hooked

Hooked by Brenda Rothert

hooked_nowlive

PURCHASE IT NOW!

Amazon | iBooks | Kobo | GooglePlay | Nook

 

Book Blurb:

From the author of the On the Line and Fire on Ice hockey romance series comes a sultry novel featuring a brooding NHL player who’s hell on skates—and the no-nonsense woman who forces him to clean up his act.

Miranda: Even though I’m broke, putting myself through college, and working two jobs, I’m trying to make the best of it. Meanwhile, Jake Birch, hockey’s hottest bad boy, lives in a luxury hotel in downtown Chicago—and still complains about every little thing in his penthouse. But after I tell him off, instead of getting me fired, Jake requests me as his personal housekeeper. Then he starts flirting with me. Only I’m not flirting back . . . at least, I’m trying not to. Did I mention that he’s hockey’s hottest bad boy?

Jake: I’ve met the best woman at the worst possible time. Miranda is the fire to my ice—a sexy, charmingly candid spark who breaks down my walls and reminds me what it’s like to feel again. But I’m being forced to date my team owner’s daughter to keep my job, so I can’t be caught with Miranda. Still, we’re getting closer—until Miranda finds out about my “girlfriend.” And that’s not the only secret I’ve been keeping. But Miranda’s the one I want . . . even if she doesn’t believe me.

hooked_live hooked_teaser3


You can read chapters 1-4 of Hooked on Instafreebie!

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

_________________________________________

4.5 Star

Tracey’s Review

Brenda Rothert has proven time and again that she knows how to write a hot hockey story. Alpha heroes, heroines that range from broken to strong and sassy, and always a love of the game, her books never disappoint.

HOOKED is Brenda’s newest book and, while all of the usual suspects are here, there is something more, too. Jake Birch is just as alpha, just as hot, and, like other of Brenda’s guys, he’s got baggage. Gutted by the loss of his brother, he’s cut himself off emotionally from everyone and everything, interested only in scoring, both on and off the ice. Finding himself falling for the strong, sassy, take no crap woman cleaning his room at his 5-star hotel is not on his radar. But, fall he does, because he truly has never met anyone like Miranda Carr.

Miranda is one of my favorite of Brenda’s ladies yet, and another solid example of how she continues to grow at her craft. Sure, Miranda’s suffered infidelity and heartbreak like the rest of us, but she’s strong. A great family life, really smart, hardworking, and savvy, she doesn’t need to rely on anyone to complete her. But what made HOOKED such an enjoyable read is the way that she and Jake do come to realize that it’s okay to have a soft place to land, that it’s good not to have to take life on on your own. And, another kudo to Brenda for not having the relatively speedy progression of their relationship result in insta-sex. It’s really nice to see a strong, sexy guy that literally has ladies throwing their panties at him to want to take things more slowly and wait and build a solid emotional relationship.

So, my take? HOOKED is everything that I’ve come to expect from one of Brenda’s books, and more. An easy and engaging read that tugs on the heartstrings and steams up the windows, it’s 4.5 sexy, emotional, HEA stars, and I’m happy to add it to my list of books that you should read.

***ARC generously provided for an honest review.***

*****

4 Star

Michel’s Review

Hooked is the first book I have read by Brenda Rothert.  This novel was right on mark with the title, I was hooked in the first chapter.  The story was engaging with well developed characters that were easy to bond with as a reader.  The writing was consistent and the pacing was perfectly synchronized .

First impressions can be misleading.  For Jake Birch and Miranda, their first encounter was not one that left a positive impression.

Miranda is a college student working two jobs to make ends meet.  Her job as a hotel maid is demanding and at times degrading.  When she is assigned the penthouse suites it is a bit stressful.  Her boss demands perfection.  Soaps and toiletries must be lined up in perfect order, vacuum lines need to be perfectly straight, and dusting must pass the white glove inspection. The suites must be cleaned to perfection while the guest is out.

Rule number one is broken when Miranda encounters Jake Birch, the egotistical NHL Hockey Player living in one of the suites while his apartment is being remodeled.  Rule number two is broken when she engages with the guest.  This leads to rule number three being broken, franternizing with the guest.

Jake and Miranda build a solid friendship that leads to more.  Both have issues that hinder their budding romance.  Jake has relationship issues that stem from his family life.  Miranda has been cheated on and has trouble trusting.

As the two get to know one another better not only do they develop a deep abiding respect for one another, they also begin developing deep feelings for one another.  They are both willing to take a chance even though their past issues scare them.

In any good romance story there are always obstacles the characters have to get past before they can truly find their happily ever after.  Jake and Miranda have more than their issues to deal with.  They have hectic schedules that conflict, team politics, work rules, and a psychotic admirer that could ruin Jake’s career.  Jake and Miranda found positive ways to handle all the conflicts.  They were willing to work for their relationship.

I thoroughly enjoyed this story.  It had a very realistic feel.  I easily connected with both characters.  I have become a Brenda Rothert fan and intend to read more of her books.

———————

AUTHOR INFORMATION:

BRheadshot

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

InkSlinger Blogger Final