#RunAwayBride…#Searching For Beautiful…#5StarReview…#Giveaway

Posted on 05/26/2015 by shellbellereads

Today we are celebrating the release of SEARCHING FOR BEAUTIFUL by Jennifer Probst. This is the 3rd book in the Searching For series and it is published by Gallery Books. Check out the teaser and giveaway below for a chance to win a necklace and signed book.

SEARCHING FOR BEAUTIFUL Synopsis:

The highly anticipated third novel in the Searching For series from Jennifer Probst, “one of the most exciting breakout novelists” (USA Today), featuring a runaway bride and the man who wants to be more than just her best friend…

Genevieve MacKenzie has her life completely under control. About to wed the charming Chief doctor at the local hospital, she’s an up-and-coming surgeon with everything she could ever want. Until an escape through the church window on the day of her wedding sends her life into a tailspin…and flings her right into her best friend’s arms.

When Wolfe catches his best friend falling out a window on her wedding day, he doesn’t ask questions. He whisks her away, determined to watch over her and discover the truth behind her desperate escape. But when his feelings turn more than platonic, he realizes he may risk his most important relationship in order to protect his damaged heart, and the woman he loves.

Can Genevieve and Wolfe’s friendship turn into something deeper—or is it already too late for true love?

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PURCHASE SEARCHING FOR BEAUTIFUL

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Michel’s Review

What do you get when you unite the Marriage To A Billionaire series with the Searching For series by Jennifer Probst? You witness the birth of Searching For Beautiful. Fans of both series have been waiting for Wolfe’s and Gen’s book. The wait was well worth it.

We met both characters in previous books and watched them grow from college students to successful adults. Gen is about to have her Fairy Tale wedding. She is the Princess in the spotlight. Minutes before she should be walking down the aisle she panics. Her inner voice is telling her to run. At that crucial moment she chooses to listen to her inner voice and out the window she goes. Lucky for her that Wolfe was lingering outside the church and is ready to rescue her.

Gen got caught up in an manipulative and abusive relationship without even realizing it. She has always had the need to be perfect, do the right thing, and always be a people pleaser. Now that she has escaped her wedding she is slowly realizing that she lost herself in her perfect relationship with David. She did not realize the true nature of David’s love. She never foresaw the depths he went to. He was weaving a path that would alienate her from her friends, make her family question her sanity, and make her completely dependent on him even though she is a successful, intelligent woman.

Wolfe has missed his best friend. He slowly watched Gen pull away from her friendship while she was involved with David. He’s watched her go from being a confident woman to a woman questioning her every move. He will do anything to help her find herself once more. He wants to see his best friend happy once again.

What starts out as an escape from a wedding turns into a journey of self discovery and ultimately the real Fairy Tale romance. First Wolfe will have to come to terms with his tortured past and realize that he more than good enough for Gen. He will push Gen away and Gen will pull him back. Gen will question her every move and Wolfe will show her that she has always had the right answers within herself. Together they are something beautiful.

Once again Jennifer Probst has written a wonderful romance that is going to delight the readers. I highly recommend Searching For Beautiful.

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AUTHOR INFORMATION:

Jennifer Probst – Bio:
Jennifer Probst wrote her first book at twelve years old. She bound it in a folder, read it to her classmates, and hasn’t stopped writing since. She took a short hiatus to get married, get pregnant, buy a house, get pregnant again, pursue a master’s in English Literature, and rescue two shelter dogs. Now she is writing again.

She makes her home in Upstate New York with the whole crew. Her sons keep her active, stressed, joyous, and sad her house will never be truly clean.
She is the New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of sexy and erotic contemporary romance. She was thrilled her book, The Marriage Bargain, was ranked #6 on Amazon’s Best Books for 2012. She loves hearing from readers. Visit her website for updates on new releases and her street team at http://www.jenniferprobst.com.

LINKS:

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Summer Reads… Five Days Until You by Monica Murphy- A One Week Girlfriend Novella

Posted on 05/24/2015 by shellbellereads

Five Days Until You

One Week Girlfriend Series- Book 4.5

By Monica Murphy

Synopsis

Unsure. That’s how I’m feeling about my entire life. Just when everything’s good and I have it all under control, my girl Chelsea decides she’s going to leave me for the summer. Despite my disappointment, I have to support her. It’s what she wants, an opportunity she can’t say no to and no way will I be the one to stop her. I love her too much to hold her back.

Opportunities are happening for me too, though. A big one that my brother-in-law Drew says I can’t pass up. I’m working extra hard. So is Chelsea. It’s like we don’t have any time to get together. We keep making the same promise–only five more days until we see each other again. But we keep breaking that promise. Is our relationship strong enough to survive all of these changes?

**FIVE DAYS UNTIL YOU continues the story of Owen & Chelsea from FOUR YEARS LATER. Plus includes a BONUS holiday story featuring Drew + Fable! Also, read chapter one of FAIR GAME, the first book in Monica’s new NA series The Rules coming May 12th!**

Buy: Amazon / B & N

Michel’s Review

The One Week Girlfriend Series is one of my all time favorite series. I fell in love with all of the characters in the series. I thought the series was finished but Monica Murphy releases these wonderful novellas that give us a snippet of the characters lives after the book is finished.

Owen and Chelsea are going strong. Summer is approaching and they are debating what to do with their time. Chelsea has been offered an internship at a university a few hours away. Owen doesn’t want to hold her back. He knows this could be a huge factor in her choosing where to go for her masters degree. He reluctantly encourages her to take the position. He plans on going up every weekend to see her. Their separation will only be 5 days at a time. But life has a way of interfering with the best laid plans.

Owen is presented with an opportunity he cannot pass up. He is a contender to be scouted for Pro Football. He will have to buckle down and get serious about his game. His brother in law Drew and his coach have placed him on a rigorous training schedule. Between the little time he has and the sheer exhaustion he is unable to keep his promises to Chelsea.

Their separation begins to wear on their relationship. Things are getting tense. Chelsea is making new friends and a life without him. Owen needs to make Chelsea understand that she is his world.

Misunderstandings, hurt feelings, and anger will get in their way. In the end Chelsea and Owen will have to choose whether their relationship has run it’s course.

Once again Monica delivered another fantastic story. This couple went through the trials that many couples face. I love both Owen and Chelsea. I am so happy that I got to experience another slice of their lives.

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

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

5 Star Review: The Friend Zone by Kristen Callahan – The Game On Series – Book 2

Posted on 05/24/2015 by shellbellereads

The Friend Zone

Game On Series – Book 2

By Kristen Callihan

Synopsis

USA TODAY BEST-SELLING SERIES
Gray doesn’t make friends with women. He has sex with them. Until Ivy.

The last thing star tight-end Gray Grayson wants to do is drive his agent’s daughter’s bubblegum pink car. But he needs the wheels and she’s studying abroad. Something he explains when she sends him an irate text to let him know exactly how much pain she’ll put him in if he crashes her beloved ride. Before he knows it, Ivy Mackenzie has become his best texting bud. But then Ivy comes home and everything goes haywire. Because the only thing Gray can think of is being with Ivy.

Ivy doesn’t have sex with friends. Especially not with a certain football player. No matter how hot he makes her…

Gray drives Ivy crazy. He’s irreverent, sex on a stick, and completely off limits. Because, Ivy has one golden rule: never get involved with one of her father’s clients. A rule that’s proving harder to keep now that Gray is doing his best to seduce her. Her best friend is fast becoming the most irresistible guy she’s ever met.

Which means Gray is going to have to use all his skills to win Ivy’s heart. Game on.

New Adult/Contemporary Romance with a HEA – Recommended for readers 18 and older.
Book 2 in the Game On series.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Michel’s Review

The Friend Zone is the second book in the Game On Series by Kristen Callahan.

It’s a fun romance that started as friendship and turned into a beautiful love story.

Gray Greyson is at the top of his game. He has scouts looking at him. He has agents vying for him to sign with him. He can get any woman he wants. He’s smart and doesn’t have to worry about football as his only career. His life is golden.

When his best friend breaks his leg he lends him his truck. The agent he’s looking to sign with lends him his daughter’s pink car. The hottest player on the field is cruising around town in powder puff car. Gray is okay with that. He’s comfortable in his own skin. He doesn’t need props to make him look better.

When he gets a text from Ivy MacKenzie telling him how to drive her car, the game is on. Through snarky texts Gray and Ivy become fast friends. When she finally arrives back in the States Gray is ready to pick up their friendship in person. Ivy has become one of the most important persons in his life.

These two were made for one another. They both have a quirky sense of humor. They are both compassionate towards others. They both love sports. They both love food. They are the ying and yang to one another.

Both Ivy and Gray are falling in love with one another. They are afraid to take it to the next level because of the fear of ruining their friendship. When they finally surrender to their feelings it is explosive.

These two will have their ups and downs throughout their relationship. The gel that holds them together is their deep friendship.

Gray Greyson is one of my favorite male heroes. He is the real deal, the full package.

Kristen Callihan has written another fantastic book that will leave your heart swooning. I can’t wait for more in this series.

Game On Series

The Hook Up – Book 1

The rules: no kissing on the mouth, no staying the night, no telling anyone, and above all… No falling in love

Anna Jones just wants to finish college and figure out her life. Falling for star quarterback Drew Baylor is certainly not on her to do list. Confident and charming, he lives in the limelight and is way too gorgeous for his own good. If only she could ignore his heated stares and stop thinking about doing hot and dirty things with him. Easy right?

Too bad he’s committed to making her break every rule…

Football has been good to Drew. It’s given him recognition, two National Championships, and the Heisman. But what he really craves is sexy yet prickly Anna Jones. Her cutting humor and blatant disregard for his fame turns him on like nothing else. But there’s one problem: she’s shut him down. Completely.
That is until a chance encounter leads to the hottest sex of their lives, along with the possibility of something great. Unfortunately, Anna wants it to remain a hook up. Now it’s up to Drew to tempt her with more: more sex, more satisfaction, more time with him. Until she’s truly hooked. It’s a good thing Drew knows all about winning.

All’s fair in love and football…Game on

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

The Friend Zone – Book 2

Gray doesn’t make friends with women. He has sex with them. Until Ivy.

Ivy doesn’t have sex with friends. Especially not with a certain football player. No matter how hot he makes her…

Which means Gray is going to have to use all his skills to win Ivy’s heart. Game on.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Author Bio:

Kristen Callihan is an author because there is nothing else she’d rather be. She is a three-time RITA nominee and winner of two RT Reviewer’s Choice awards. Her novels have garnered starred reviews from Publisher’s Weekly and the Library Journal, as well as being awarded top picks by many reviewers. Her debut book FIRELIGHT received RT Magazine’s Seal of Excellence, was named a best book of the year by Library Journal, best book of Spring 2012 by Publisher’s Weekly, and was named the best romance book of 2012 by ALA RUSA. When she is not writing, she is reading.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Summer Reads… Down The Shore by T. Torrest

Posted on 05/24/2015 by shellbellereads

Down The Shore

By T. Torrest

Synopsis

DOWN THE SHORE
A rock-and-roll romantic comedy.

Livia Chadwick is a photographer by day and a self-proclaimed rock slut by night.
Her dating life is a lackluster parade of evasive jerks and
her boss is an unrelenting nightmare of a human being.
What else can a girl do but rent a beach house with her girlfriends
And blow off a little steam every weekend?
But hey, she’s from Jersey. Barhopping down the shore all season is sort of mandatory.
All is going according to plan… until she meets Jack.

Jack Tanner is a contractor-turned-musician in a small-town cover band
suddenly thrust into the limelight.
He’s already had enough of the rock-and-roll lifestyle, and groupies have never been his thing.
Then again… there’s a gorgeous brunette in the audience tonight, checking him out with the most incredible green eyes he’s ever seen.

She’s looking for a fling.
He’s looking for forever.

It’s gonna be one helluva summer.
Set in the summer of 1995, DOWN THE SHORE takes the reader on a tour through some of the Jersey shore’s hottest hot spots over one, sleepless, flannel-clad summer.
It’s a look back to a time when the music was groundbreaking, the rock clubs were king,
and bar bands ruled the world.

***Not recommended for anyone under the age of 18, and/or any readers who are slut-shamers, guido sympathizers, beach haters or anti-music. Other people who should walk away from this book immediately: Readers who have sticks up their butts about offensive language, those who don’t like detailed sex scenes in their stories, idiots who think “Jersey Shore” has anything to do with actual New Jerseyans, and anyone who can’t appreciate the mother-effing nineties.***

READ WHEN YOU’RE IN THE MOOD FOR:
Light, sexy, funny, romantic, and nostalgic.

Buy: Amazon / B & N

Michel’s Review

Down The Shore by T. Torrest is the perfect book to welcome in Summer. It is the perfect combination of beach parties, summer vacations, rock n roll, and romance. I absolutely enjoyed this book!

Liv Chadwick is not your typical heroine. She is in a class by herself. She knows what she wants and one of those things is not a permanent boyfriend. She is a self acclaimed rock star slut, not a groupie mind you, because she appreciates any rock n roll talent. She doesn’t want promises, she doesn’t want freebies, and she doesn’t want future hook ups. She loves music. She loves men. She loves sex. What 23 year old woman wouldn’t?

Liv and her friends have rented a house on the Jersey Shore for the summer. Although she relishes the summer beach party life, she is still a working girl. She’s at home during the week and on the beach on the weekends. Life couldn’t get much better.

But it does get better. She meets the hot upcoming rock star Jack Tanner. He has the same social group as she does. He is wickedly talented and wickedly hot. Liv has set her sights on her next rock star conquest.

Jack Tanner has other things in mind when he meets Liv. He’s tired of the casual hookups. He wants a real relationship even though he just got out of a bad one. His music is fun but not his real goal in life. He just wants to have a nice girlfriend that can enjoy his music, friends, and family. Now he has to convince Liv to go for it.

Jack and Liv come to an agreement. Ten dates before sex. This gives Jack a chance to show Liv who he is and what they can have. Liv is reluctant. By the end of ten dates she’s singing a new tune. She’s ready to be the girl Jack wants.

Life has a way of getting in the way. Before summer is over both Liv and Jack will be nursing broken hearts. Can they move on in their lives after they have had the summer that only happens once in a lifetime?

Liv and Jack a caught up in the current. Can they find the life raft that will save them both? Can they find that summer never really ends. They will have to swim through murky waters before they can come ashore. Once they are back on solid ground they will learn more about who they are and what they want.

I really enjoyed this book and highly recommend it!

Author Bio:

T. Torrest is a New Adult fiction writer from the U.S. She has written many books, but prays that only a handful of them will ever see the light of day. Her stories are geared toward readers of any age that know how to enjoy a good laugh and a dreamy romance.

Ms. Torrest was a child of the eighties, but has since traded in her Rubik’s cube for a laptop and her Catholic school uniform for a comfy pair of yoga pants. She likes pina coladas and getting caught in the rain. She’s not much into health food, but she does enjoy talking about herself in the third person.

A lifelong Jersey girl, she currently resides there with her husband and two sons.

She also LOVES to get friend requests on goodreads and facebook http://www.facebook.com/pages/TTorres… and personal messages from readers via email ttorrest@optonline.net

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

5 Star Review: Dragon’s Lair by Chantal Fernando – Wind Dragons MC Series – Book 1

Posted on 05/24/2015 by shellbellereads

Dragon’s Lair

Wind Dragons MC Series – Book 1

By Chantal Fernando

Synopsis

The first in a new sexy romance series from bestselling author Chantal Fernando about the bad boys of the Wind Dragons Motorcycle Club and the women who fall in love with them.

When I found my boyfriend cheating on me, I did something stupid.

Or should I say, someone?

Because of that mistake, I’m now stuck in a world I don’t belong in.

I’m a law student. They’re criminals. He’s the vice president of a motorcycle club. I’m a good girl with a strict upbringing. He’s my ex-boyfriend’s brother.

And I’m screwed.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Michel’s Review

I have been looking for a MC series to sink into. The Wind Dragon MC Series by Chantal Fernando is off to a very good start with the release of Dragon’s Lair. I could not put the book down and finished it in one sitting. It kept me mesmerized. The characters came to life, the Dragon MC brothers captured my attention. The club dynamics were interesting. This brotherhood had a combination of diverse men that made their own laws in life. The women that were important to these men were strong, self sufficient, and had an important place in the club, whether they were a club whore or an old lady.

Dex and Faye have known each other all their lives. They came from prominent families that placed an importance on their status in the community. Dex has always been the older brother Faye needed. He sensed her loneliness as a child. He made sure she knew she was an important part of his life. As they grew older, Dex moved on. Faye became her own woman. She was an intelligent law student with the perfect boyfriend. She focused on her achievements and tried to move past her family’s expectations. When she catches her perfect boyfriend cheating on her something snaps inside. She is no longer content being the perfect girlfriend, the perfect daughter, and perfect student. She wants to experience life outside of her small world. She makes the decision to step out of her comfort zone and begin living. One night out and a one night stand will change everything in her life. She hooked up with a biker. That biker was the man she had built her childhood dreams around. The man she no longer really knows. That one night leads to her being pregnant.

When Dex catches wind that Faye is pregnant the rules of the game change. He takes her into his protection. He makes her a part of his life. He installs her in the Wind Dragon’s clubhouse. He wants to make sure their child is brought into the world safely. He would do anything for Faye and his child except make her his old lady. He has his reasons and he’s not sharing them with Faye.

Faye will flounder around in her new world. She is exposed to a lifestyle she never knew existed. She will have to turn a blind eye on the shenanigans that are going on daily. She will have to learn to turn the other cheek. She will have to learn not to have expectations as far as Dex is concerned. She will have to draw on her wits and inner strength to survive in Dex’s world.

Faye will find new strengths she never knew she had. She will find a new family that values her. She will make new friends and new enemies. She will become a woman to be reckoned with. She will learn how to handle Dex. She will show him that her love is more than an old childhood friendship. She will show him what a true partner is. She will earn his respect and the respect from the brothers.

I absolutely loved this book. Not only were the leading characters powerful, the secondary characters also demanded my attention. The club dynamics and comradery was enthralling. The entire story kept my full attention. When I finished the book I was dying for Arrow’s book to release. I am invested in the Wind Dragons MC series.

The Wind Dragons MC Series

Dragon’s Lair – Book 1

The first in a new sexy romance series from bestselling author Chantal Fernando about the bad boys of the Wind Dragons Motorcycle Club and the women who fall in love with them.

When I found my boyfriend cheating on me, I did something stupid.

Or should I say, someone?

Because of that mistake, I’m now stuck in a world I don’t belong in.

I’m a law student. They’re criminals. He’s the vice president of a motorcycle club. I’m a good girl with a strict upbringing. He’s my ex-boyfriend’s brother.

And I’m screwed.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Arrow’s Hell – Book 2

Release Date: June 16, 2015

From bestselling author Chantal Fernando, the second book in a sexy romance series featuring the bad boys of the Wind Dragons Motorcycle Club and the women who fall in love with them.

Being the younger sister of a Wind Dragons MC member isn’t as great as you’d think it would be.

I can’t escape the details of my brother’s exploits. No one tells me anything. Men who know who I am tend to stay away from me.

And worst of all: the members of the MC are off-limits.

When Arrow catches my eye, I make it my mission to make him happy again.

When I fall head over heels in love with him, I just hope he will be there to catch me. And that my brother doesn’t kill him…

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Tracker’s End – Book 3

Release Date: August 11, 2015

The third in a sexy romance series from the bestselling author of Saxon and Toxic Girl about the bad boys of the Wind Dragons Motorcycle Club and the women who fall in love with them.

Tracker is everything I’ve ever wanted.

I see him. I’ve watched time change him.

I’ve been patient, but he still hasn’t noticed me. Not the way I want him to. The more time I spend with the MC, the more I understand.

When you want something, you have to take it. You have to fight for it.

And Tracker is more than worth fighting for…

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

_____________________

Author Bio:

New York Times, Amazon & USA Today Bestselling Author Chantal Fernando is twenty seven years old and lives in Western Australia.

Lover of all things romance, Chantal is the author of the best selling books Dragon’s Lair, Maybe This Time and many more.

When not reading, writing or daydreaming she can be found enjoying life with her three sons and family.

Chantal loves to hear from readers and can be found here:

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter~ Goodreads

Review: Shadow Of Doubt by Tiffany Snow – The Tangled Ivy Trilogy – Book 2

Posted on 05/22/2015 by shellbellereads

Shadow of Doubt

The Tangled Ivy Trilogy – Book 2

By Tiffany Snow

Synopsis

Ivy Mason has it all: beauty, a plush apartment, a fancy car, and a debonair British spy boyfriend who pays all her bills. If only her boyfriend was in her life—and her bed—more than just sporadically.

Part of an underground British agency called the Shadow, Devon Clay knows that secrecy is what has kept him alive. Anyone he loves is a liability, and being involved with him puts the other person in grave danger. Yet Ivy is someone his heart can’t resist.

When an enemy from Devon’s past returns, the spy and his girlfriend are thrown headlong into an international conspiracy that puts everyone Ivy loves at risk. From the Missouri River bottoms to the brothels of Amsterdam, Ivy and Devon must outrun and outmaneuver the forces allied against them, and no one can be trusted.

Michel’s Review

If you are looking for an action packed, high suspense, international thriller, and sexy romance , take an adventure with The Tangled Ivy series by Tiffany Snow. This series makes James Bond look like a pre schooler on the international playground. The books must be read in order because it is an ongoing adventure where the stakes are high.

Shadow of Doubt opens where In His Shadow left off. It appears Ivy Mason is living the dream. She has a high end apartment, beautiful clothes, and one hot sophisticated spy boyfriend. The only problem is that the sophisticated spy boyfriend is MIA more than he is in her bed. She goes weeks and months without seeing or hearing from him. When he does show up their time is very fleeting. He refuses to give her more. She is beginning to feel used. She is feeling like a kept woman.

When one of Devon Clay’s enemies shows up in Ivy’s apartment the game has changed. Her life is in danger. She has no way to contact Devon. The only thing she can do is turn to her friend in the FBI for protection. But even the FBI can’t protect Ivy. The stakes are too high and there is more than one player after her. Her secret is out, she is a commodity because of what she carries around in her body. All the players in the game are ruthless. She needs Devon to protect her and destroy the enemies at bay. Devon may show up when it’s far too late.

Devon will be facing many choices. His career makes impossible for him to settle into any kind of relationship. He has powerful enemies that would use any person he loves as a bargaining chip. He is falling in love with Ivy but knows he has to let her go. When Ivy’s life is on the line Devon will have to choose between Ivy and his career. He will learn who his true enemies are. No one can be trusted.

Ivy and Devon will face international terrorists, mortal enemies, and danger beyond the norm. They will be running from more than one enemy. Each enemy has their own agenda.

This book ends on a major cliffhanger that will have the readers biting their nails.

I highly recommend The Tangled Ivy Series.

_____________________

The Tangled Ivy Series

In His Shadow

The Tangled Ivy Trilogy- Book 1

By Tiffany Snow

Synopsis

Ivy Mason is hiding—from her past, from herself, and from anyone who could love her. The only kind of love she’s ever known hurts, leaving scars on her body and soul. Now, her world may be boring and predictable, but that’s exactly what she wants. Until Devon Clay walks into her life.

A lonely man in a deadly profession, Devon works as an agent for an underground British agency known only as the Shadow. Nothing about him is safe or ordinary. The danger that consumes his life turns into an addiction Ivy can’t resist…even if it proves fatal.

As Ivy’s past begins to catch up with her, she wonders if love really is the twisted thing she’s always thought it was. Maybe it could be more with this man, who’s shown her that she doesn’t need to protect herself from everyone. Is what she feels for Devon worth the risk? He may save her heart or break it, if she manages to stay alive.

Shadow of Doubt

The Tangled Ivy Series – Book 2

By Tiffany Snow

Synopsis

______________________________________________

About Tiffany Snow

I love to stick with characters over a series of books when I read, which is the same way I write. My first series – THE KATHLEEN TURNER SERIES – includes five books, two companion novels, and features a love triangle. My new series, coming from Montlake Romance December 16, 2014, is the TANGLED IVY TRILOGY, beginning with IN HIS SHADOW.
As for me, I’ve been reading romance novels since I was way too young to read such things, have an unhealthy obsession for all things Doctor Who, prefer Pepsi to Coke and Absolut to both, think men who drink girly cocktails are wusses, have learned to never stop believing in my beloved St. Louis Cardinals, and can recite the entire scripts of When Harry Met Sally and Apollo 13. George Washington is cool, Bon Jovi still rocks the house, and Bruce Willis is the ultimate alpha-male hero. Most of all, romance never, ever gets old.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Happy Release + Review: Game Changer by Melissa Cutler – Bomb Squad Series – Book 3

Posted on 05/19/2015 by shellbellereads

Game Changer

Bomb Squad Series – Book 3

By Melissa Cutler

Synopsis

Welcome to Destiny Falls, New York, home of Bomb Squad–an ice hockey team full of rugged military heroes. A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity has the team captain packing his bags for greener pastures, but saying good-bye to the woman who’d captured his heart is easier said than done…

After being wounded in combat, Brandon Theroux lives every day like it’s his last. He never could have imagined that the sleek mechanics of his prosthetic leg would open so many doors, including minor celebrity status as a fitness model and a well-earned reputation as a rakish playboy. The only door it hasn’t opened is the one to Harper Johnson’s bedroom.

Harper has too much self-respect to join the ranks of Brandon’s “carpe diem” conquests, but when she needs someone to keep the peace in the tavern she owns, Brandon offers his help–as long as she agrees to a very tempting trade. It isn’t long before the two realize that a deal struck between friends who can’t keep their hands off each other has the potential to be a whole lot hotter than either of them is prepared to handle…

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes

Tracey’s Review

Harper Johnson and Brandon Theroux have what you might call a ‘complicated’ relationship. Harper, local bar owner, and Brandon, decorated war veteran and captain of the local hockey team, have spent years dancing around each other, constantly fanning the flame of their attraction to each other. When life-changing events arise in each of their lives, will the spark grow or quietly go out?

I started reading this book and I could NOT put it down. Melissa Cutler has taken a very real, very sobering subject, and woven it into a story about love, passion, and finding that person inside yourself that you’re truly destined to be. I absolutely felt that the ‘heavy’ subject matter only made Harper and Brandon and their relationship more real. They are working through things that many of us face, and their long journey to a place of self-acceptance, finding their bliss, and opening themselves to the reality that has been a long time coming is well worth the read. I am a sucker for a friends to lovers read, and when there is enough angst and growth to make it a little harder to get to that place, even better. The chemistry between Harper and Brandon is white-hot, but it’s the evolution of their relationship, the blossoming of a true friendship, that had my heart. And, I’m not gonna lie, the sexy time here, oh, my goodness, break out the fan! Saying that the love scenes are steamy is not doing this book justice, and Brandon might just be one of my new favorite BBFs. I loved seeing his growth as he realizes what will truly make him happy. And Harper’s strength, her journey to a place of true peace, is so uplifting, and a lesson in a follow-your-bliss, take no prisoners approach to life. The addition of a quirky, loveable, unique cast of supporting characters make for a group of folks that seem like a lot of fun to be around, and make me eager to read more about them all.

Game Changer is a book with plenty of heart, passion, and soul, and turned out to be a gem of a read that I couldn’t recommend more. I easily give it 5 stars, and look forward to reading more books by Melissa Cutler.

***ARC Received from Penguin Group via NetGalley for an honest review***

Michel’s Review

I absolutely love the Bomb Squad series. This series not only gives the reader a sizzling hot romance, it also gives the reader a deep and meaningful story that is realistic. It touches on many emotions and insecurities that we all possess. It taps into their greatest fears as well as their greatest triumphs. This series features the wounded heroes that sacrificed a part of themselves for our country. Now they are home and learning to live with their losses. They are trying to make a new “normal” in their lives. They are trying to put the war in the past and move forward. Each character has a story that is going to win the readers over.

Game Changer is a friends to lovers kind of romance. Both Harper and Brandon fought hard to overcome their issues. Their love for one another was astounding.

Once again Melissa Cutler has delivered another fantastic book!

__________________________________________________________________

The Bomb Squad Series

Risky Business – Book 1

Welcome to Destiny Falls, New York, home of Bomb Squad–an ice hockey team full of rugged military heroes. But the season’s biggest match-up isn’t on the ice as one of their own prepares to go head to head with his new boss…

Allison Whitely’s ex left her with a mountain of debt and Cloud Nine, a struggling boat rental business. With zero job skills, her only hope of getting back in the black lies in a brooding ex-soldier who has her seeing red…

Theo Lacroix’s teammates are counting on their star player to help them win an upcoming high profile hockey game. But when a sexy tornado of a woman sweeps into Destiny Falls and expects him to help her with Cloud Nine, Theo is tempted to skate away from it all.

Theo vowed never again to be someone’s knight in shining armor, but his feelings–and desire–for Allison are becoming harder to ignore. He longs to save her, but to win Allison’s love, he’ll have to throw out his old playbook and take the ultimate risk…playing from the heart.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Undefeated – Book 2

Welcome to Destiny Falls, New York, home of Bomb Squad—an ice hockey team full of rugged military heroes. The team’s battling a losing streak, but the season’s biggest game changer is one player’s second chance with the one who got away…

Yoga instructor Marlena Brodie is always up for a challenge, and her new job of snapping Bomb Squad out of their rut is definitely that, even though it means being in close contact with Liam McAllister, her high school crush gone bad. She can feel the damage pouring off of him—but also a wild and sexy strength that calls to her.

The Army turned Liam McAllister into a man, but as a combat medic, he saw far too much to ever be whole again. He’s not interested in the civilian world beyond his job as a carpenter, but he never stopped wondering what might have been with Marlena—and it isn’t long before she’s crashed through his carefully constructed walls. He longs for a new beginning with her, but to be the man she deserves, he’ll have to step out of his defensive zone and score the most important play of his life…

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Game Changer – Book 3

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes

_________________________

Author Bio:

Melissa Cutler knows she has the best job in the world, dividing her time between her dual passions for writing sexy contemporary romances and edge-of-your-seat romantic suspense for Harlequin, Penguin, and Kensington Books.

She was struck at an early age by an unrelenting travel bug and is probably planning her next vacation as you read this. When she’s not globetrotting, she’s enjoying Southern California’s flip-flop wearing weather and wrangling two rambunctious kids.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Release Blitz + Review + Giveaway: Only Forever by Cristin Harber – Only Series – Book 4

Posted on 05/19/2015 by shellbellereads

The final part in Grayson and Emma’s epic love story is available now! Grab ONLY FOREVER by Cristin Harber today! And if you missed the first part of their story, you can read ONLY FOR HIM here!

About ONLY FOREVER

The fourth and final installment of the Only series. Must be read in order.

There comes a time when Emma must face the secret she kept from Grayson. But she never thought it would be while she stood on stage at Emerald’s. The seconds she has to convey that her life is in danger are lost in the devastation that she sees rip through him.

She pinches her eyes closed. “Don’t leave me. No matter how mad you are, please, please don’t leave me here alone.”

But there’s more on the line than just Emma’s safety. There’s the danger that brought Titan’s Delta team in to the strip club in the first place. A threat that’s too close to home, too close to the family, the daughter and woman Grayson plans to claim.

I push away the sudden spring of fear. Life’s too unknown, with hidden enemies and unseen terrors. The idea that I could lose her again… it’s unbearable.

A love story like Grayson and Emma needs a forever love, and somehow they’ll find their way to her fairytale.

Amazon / B & N /iBooks

EXCERPT

“You’ve always been by my side. From the day we met. And God knows there were years of secrets and storms and pain and tears, until I came out the other side.”

“Gray…”

“I’m a better man, and I exist for you, for us.” I hold my breath and watch her silence. My chest hurts; my lungs burn. My throat is tight as I choke on the decades’ worth of sentiment. “I love both of you so deeply that my survival, my sanity, would be gone if I couldn’t be yours.”

My voice cracks, and her lips find mine. It’s a soft kiss but packs a powerful punch. She whispers, “We’re yours forever.”

Michel’s Review

Only Forever is the final book in the Only Series. It was the perfect ending for Emma and Grayson. Their secrets were revealed. Some of Grayson’s haunted past is put to rest, the other parts are managable. Emma’s secrets are exposed and it doesn’t tear their relationship apart. They have both made things right with their family and their young daughter. Now they have Only Forever.

Cristin Harber has once again given the readers a series that is easy to love. I look forward to what she has lined up next.

GIVEAWAY

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ABOUT CRISTIN HARBER

Cristin Harber is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling romance author. She writes sexy, steamy romantic suspense and military romance. Readers voted her onto Amazon’s Top Picks for Debut Romance Authors in 2013, and her debut Titan series was both a #1 romantic suspense and #1 military romance bestseller.

You can become a Titan Agent for exclusive scenes, details, and more! Visit the official Titan website here!

Text TITAN to 66866 to sign up for exclusive emails!

Release Blitz + 5 Star Review + Giveaway: #Selfie by Cambria Hebert – #Hashtag Series – Book 4

Posted on 05/18/2015 by shellbellereads

#Selfie

#Hashtag Series – Book 4

By Cambria Hebert

Synopsis

It’s all about the #Selfie.

She was the one girl I never wanted.

Until I had her.

One night.

One mistake.

Something we both wanted to forget.

I got rid of the proof. The one piece of evidence that could remind us both.

At least, I thought I did.

When it shows up on the school Buzzfeed, rumors fly. Friendships are tested and the feels get real.

I don’t do relationships. I don’t open my heart.

Especially for a girl everyone knows I hate.

What happens during spring break, stays in spring break.

Until it follows you home.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes

Excerpt

I didn’t think. I just reacted.

I leapt over the railing with ease. The distance down and the uneven sand I would be landing on didn’t even cross my mind.

It didn’t matter.

I landed like a cat, no trouble at all, and the second my feet hit the sand, I moved forward. Ivy was almost beneath the deck, but not quite. Her back was to me and she was sitting up, hunched forward over part of herself.

She was muttering some pretty damn colorful curse words beneath her breath, and my face split into a smile. “Another angry crab attack you?”

She stiffened and looked over her shoulder. Long blond hair cascaded down her back and partially over her shoulder, creating a waterfall around her.

God, she was beautiful.

Wait. No. No, she wasn’t.

I cleared my throat.

“Braeden?” She glanced up, surprised. “Did you jump down here?”

“Well, you screamed like you might be dying,” I quipped.

“Hardly.” She tried to roll her eyes, but it turned into a grimace. “I need a Band-Aid,” she said pathetically.

I bit back a smile and crouched down beside her. “Let me see.”

She leaned back a little so her body wasn’t blocking my view. The movement brought her closer against me, and the scent of cinnamon wrapped around me. My stomach muscles tightened and I jerked slightly. There was no way she could have noticed, but her head tilted back and her eyes found mine.

We stared at each other for the span of a few heartbeats, neither of us moving or saying a word until someone called down from above, wanting to know if we were okay.

I blinked, bringing myself back from the edge—the edge I always seemed perched on around her—and motioned for her to show me what was wrong.

She lifted her foot into her lap, and I looked down.

I heard myself mutter something, but I was back to not thinking again.

She had the cap of a beer bottle sticking out of the bottom of her foot. Blood oozed out around it and dripped into the sand.

I cradled her foot in my hand and gently stroked my thumb along her heel. A shudder moved through her, and I glanced up.

“Hurts, huh?” I murmured.

She blinked. “Uh…” She blinked again. “Yeah.”

Using one hand, I reached around to the base of my neck and pulled my T-shirt up over my head. I didn’t say anything when I reached for her again, and without any warning, I yanked the cap free.

Her breath hissed between her teeth and she smacked my arm.

“Hey!” I snapped.

“That hurt!” she yelled, but it came out more like a whimper.

I tossed the cap over my shoulder and glanced back down. Fresh blood welled. “It’s over now,” I said gently and used my shirt to wrap around her foot.

Once the shirt was in place, I pressed her foot between my hands, applying a little pressure.

Really, I just wasn’t ready to let go.

“Braeden?” Her voice caressed me. Being down here mostly concealed by the deck in the cool sand and low lighting brought back last night. It reminded me of the undeniable electricity between us.

I thought for sure it would be gone.

It was still there.

Michel’s Review

I was so excited when #Selfie by Cambria Hebert went live early. I dropped everything I was doing to read the latest book in the #Hashtag series. It was well worth the effort. I devoured this book! It is another #5 Star book in this series!

While reading the synopsis it became very clear that the author wanted the characters to remain a mystery to the readers until they opened the book and read it for themselves. So I am going to do this review a bit different than I do for most books….

#5 Star Review #Selfie #Hashtag Series #Cambria Hebert

#NeverTake Selfie For One Night Stand

#Hate Sex Is Phenomenal

#Collected More Than Seashells On Spring Break

#Player In A New Game

#Never Lose Phone

#Never Do Relationships

#Never Fall In Love

#Never Say Never

#Keep Your Secrets Close

#13 Is New Alpha Hottie To Watch

#Discover Who #BuzzBoss Is

#BuzzBoss Revelation

#Zack Still Haunts AlphaU

#13 New Dragon Slayer

#Love Is In The Air

#HEA

#Maybe?

#Cambria Hebert Nailed It

#Selfie # 5 Stars

Once again Cambria Hebert has given the readers an exceptional book. Her characters come to life and steal the readers hearts.

#Read #Selfie!

#Read#HashTag Series

The Hashtag Series

# Nerd – Book 1

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

In more ways than one.

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

But that’s about to change.

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

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

Stick to your circle.

And never fall in love with anyone on the outside.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

#Hater – Book 2

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

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

And we’re happy.

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

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

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

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

# Player-Book 3

Synopsis

Players gotta play.

Hate is like a poison. It contaminates everything.

So does doubt.

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

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

It’s coming back to haunt me.

To haunt us.

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

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

#About Cambria Hebert

Author Bio:

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

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

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

Cambria Hebert owns and operates Cambria Hebert Books, LLC.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

#Giveaway

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Review: Playing Dirty by C. L. Parker – Monkey Business Trio- Book 1

Posted on 05/15/2015 by shellbellereads

Playing Dirty

Monkey Business Trio – Book 1

By C. L. Parker

Synopsis

For fans of Bared to You and Beautiful Bastard comes the start of an irresistible new series in which competition is the ultimate seduction.

“Loaded with wit and snark, great characters, and lots of hot, steamy, naughty sex, Playing Dirty is sure to satisfy.”—New York Times bestselling author J. Kenner

Shaw Matthews plays to win, and he intends to snag a coveted partnership at San Diego’s hottest sports agency by signing America’s top athlete. Only one woman stands in his way: rival agent Cassidy Whalen. But eliminating the competition will be Shaw’s pleasure when he concocts an ingenious plan to seduce Cassidy and show the beautiful ballbreaker who’s the better man for the job. That is, until Cassidy turns the tables—and their steamy encounters start breaking all the rules.

Cassidy has worked hard to make it in a man’s cutthroat arena, and she isn’t going down without a fight, not even against the six-two alpha hunk whose rock-hard body awakens desires she’s never known before. As Cassidy shares night after night of unending passion with Shaw, the game begins to change. Now Cassidy stands to lose everything—unless a fiery contest of wills can become a winning proposition for two people who keep raising the stakes.

Playing Dirty is intended for mature audiences.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Michel’s Review

What’s wrong with a little friendly competition in the work place? Usually nothing unless the two competitors are vying for the same partnership. When the stakes get higher, the two combatants will be fighting over landing the same client. They will battle it out in the workplace. They will take the competition to the next level with red hot monkey sex. Each competitor will do anything to get the other to concede. Let the battles begin.

Cassidy Whalen and Shaw Michaels are vying for the same partnership in the sports agency they both work for. They literally hate each other. In order to get the partnership one of them will have to land star quarterback “Rocket Man” Rockford to their client roster. Their competition becomes a brutal battle of witt, wills, and orgasms. Although these two absolutely abhor one another, their sexual chemistry could compare to a volcanic eruption. A lot of hate sex and monkey business will send both into a tizzy.

The battle is on. The sheets are burning. Cassidy and Shaw may end up destroying each other. The only people finding bliss are their co workers. This book ends on a cliffhanger and I am not sure I want to continue with this series.

Playing Dirty had very little romance. Over 75 % of this book was hate sex scenes. Both the characters were not very likable at all. I felt the bad tension between them carried out too long. I just did not feel like there was any substance to the story. It was a book of screwing each other into submission without regard.

Playing Dirty was not my kind of book. I am sure there are other readers that will find this kind of push and pull entertaining.

________________________

Author Bio

C.L. Parker is a romance author who writes stories that sizzle. She’s a small-town girl with big-city dreams and enough tenacity to see them come to fruition. Having been the outgoing sort for all her life—which translates to “she just wouldn’t shut the hell up”—it’s no wonder Parker eventually turned to writing as a way to let her voice, and those of the people living inside her head, be heard. She loves hard, laughs until it hurts, and lives like there’s no tomorrow. In her world, everything truly does happen for a reason.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Saucy Southern Readers

professional, honest, and timely book reviews

Category Archives: Michel

#RunAwayBride…#Searching For Beautiful…#5StarReview…#Giveaway

Today we are celebrating the release of SEARCHING FOR BEAUTIFUL by Jennifer Probst. This is the 3rd book in the Searching For series and it is published by Gallery Books. Check out the teaser and giveaway below for a chance to win a necklace and signed book.

SEARCHING FOR BEAUTIFUL Synopsis:

The highly anticipated third novel in the Searching For series from Jennifer Probst, “one of the most exciting breakout novelists” (USA Today), featuring a runaway bride and the man who wants to be more than just her best friend…

Add the book to Goodreads

PURCHASE SEARCHING FOR BEAUTIFUL

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | iTunes

AUTHOR INFORMATION:

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Summer Reads… Five Days Until You by Monica Murphy- A One Week Girlfriend Novella

5 Star Review: The Friend Zone by Kristen Callahan – The Game On Series – Book 2

Summer Reads… Down The Shore by T. Torrest

5 Star Review: Dragon’s Lair by Chantal Fernando – Wind Dragons MC Series – Book 1

Review: Shadow Of Doubt by Tiffany Snow – The Tangled Ivy Trilogy – Book 2

Happy Release + Review: Game Changer by Melissa Cutler – Bomb Squad Series – Book 3

Release Blitz + Review + Giveaway: Only Forever by Cristin Harber – Only Series – Book 4

The final part in Grayson and Emma’s epic love story is available now! Grab ONLY FOREVER by Cristin Harber today! And if you missed the first part of their story, you can read ONLY FOR HIM here!

About ONLY FOREVER

Release Blitz + 5 Star Review + Giveaway: #Selfie by Cambria Hebert – #Hashtag Series – Book 4

Review: Playing Dirty by C. L. Parker – Monkey Business Trio- Book 1

Today we are celebrating the release of SEARCHING FOR BEAUTIFUL by Jennifer Probst. This is the 3rd book in the Searching For series and it is published by Gallery Books. Check out the teaser and giveaway below for a chance to win a necklace and signed book.

SEARCHING FOR BEAUTIFUL Synopsis:

The highly anticipated third novel in the Searching For series from Jennifer Probst, “one of the most exciting breakout novelists” (USA Today), featuring a runaway bride and the man who wants to be more than just her best friend…

Add the book to Goodreads

PURCHASE SEARCHING FOR BEAUTIFUL

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | iTunes

AUTHOR INFORMATION:

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

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The final part in Grayson and Emma’s epic love story is available now! Grab ONLY FOREVER by Cristin Harber today! And if you missed the first part of their story, you can read ONLY FOR HIM here!

About ONLY FOREVER

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