Dixie Lee Brown concludes her thrilling Trust No One series with the fast-paced tale of a damaged hero and the sexy fugitive he can’t help falling for.
Samantha “Mac” McCallister barely believes her own tale of dirty cops and murder that landed her in the hands of the sexy Jim Brady. One minute she was enjoying a ride-along in her best friend’s cruiser, the next he’s dead and she’s wanted for his murder. Mac never expected to be hiding out from the law, but with Jim by her side, maybe she can survive long enough to clear her name. The question is, can she survive the way Jim makes her feel?
Former Navy Seal Jim Brady works best under pressure. At least he used to. Now, fighting flashbacks from his time in Iraq, he has given up everything he knows in order to protect the innocent … from himself. So working with a woman on the run from the law? Not in his plans for this lifetime. Still, something about the blue-eyed beauty tells him she’s not the source of the danger—she’s running from it. Deep down he knows he’ll protect her no matter what. But his heart? That’s another story.
Tempt The Night is the final book in the Trust No One series by Dixie Lee Brown. It can be read as a stand alone novel or in series order. This book will not disappoint. It is action packed, immersed in thrilling suspense, and has a red hot romance.
This book is well written with charismatic characters that encompass the traits readers love. Who doesn’t like an alpha man that has issues but still is able to draw upon his personal strengths ? The leading lady has strength, guts, and the right amount of softness. The pacing of this book kept the reader’s attention and never hit any bumps that made the story stall. I couldn’t put this book down. The story kept me captivated to the end.
Samantha ( Mac ) McCallister has witnessed a horrific murder committed by some Alaskan State Troopers. She is in fear for her life, accused of murder, and on the run. Jim Brady, a former Navy Seal, now working for Joe’s group of merceneries, stumbles upon Mac while doing surveillance for a case. Even though he doesn’t usually get involved in other people’s business, he can’t help but want to protect Mac. But can he protect her from himself and the mind games his PTSD plays?
As the story plays out there will be many twists and turns that keep the reader guessing to the end. Amidst the twists and turns Mac and Brady will find a smoldering hot attraction that cannot be denied.
Tempt The Night was thrilling. This is the kind of book I love to curl up with and lose myself.
Author Bio:
Dixie has been writing stories for years, storing ideas and first drafts of manuscripts in every spare closet and drawer. Then one day she decided she wanted to be an author more than anything, pulled out one of those story ideas and got serious!
Her romantic suspense novels are great for curling up and losing yourself in the story. Dixie’s first novel in the Trust No One series, All or Nothing, placed 3rd in the romantic suspense category of the 2011 TARA (Tampa Area Romance Authors) Contest. The second, When I Find You, has just been released. The third book in the series – If You Only Knew – is coming soon!
Dixie moved from Montana to a small town in Central Oregon in 1972, married and raised two daughters. Today her two small dogs hold down the back of the couch and watch for intruders as she works on another novel.
Grayson Ford and Emma Kinglsey–close since they were kids, opposites in every way. He’s the stuff high school crushes are made of, Mister Popular, and captain of every team. She’s artsy, cute, and not in his league, though fully aware of Summerland’s “I Dream of Dating Grayson Ford” support group.
I can’t say no. The girl’s had my heart since before I knew it went missing.
He hides a life of hell. His father hates him, his mother’s gone. Emma is his only savior, yet she doesn’t know her power over him. She’s the only girl he wants, the only one he could ever tell–though he won’t.
I’m stronger, bigger, more of a man than he’ll ever be, but because I ruined his life, I’ve taken his crap, his attacks, the vulgar nature of his existence.
Until she discovers Gray’s embarrassment, his humiliation. Emma fights for him and for a chance. Theirs is a Cinderella story that she believes impossible. But as the layers peel back, it’s just a guy who needs a girl in order to keep breathing.
My mind is already doodling Mrs. Grayson Ford in imaginary notebooks. He has no clue where my head is at… But, given that I didn’t see what just happened coming, maybe I have no clue where his head is at either.
Only for Him. Only series, Volume One.
All novellas will release Spring 2015.
Only For Him by Cristin Harber is the first book I have read by this author. Although this was a novella, it packed a punch. I didn’t feel like the story was rushed or the plot was abbreviated. The characters were very well developed and easy to relate to. The emotional impact this book delivered pulled on all of my heart strings. The friendship between the characters was endearing. There was never a question of the bond between them. When their friendship began to evolve in something more it was quite clear that it was not going to be easy. The love between the two is full of heartbreak, turmoil, happiness, and hopes of a forever kind of love. The obstacles and impossibilities that keep these two from developing a real relationship is valid. The girl is pushing for more and the boy is holding back.
Emma and Grayson are very close friends. It would seem like this friendship would be impossible because Grayson is the golden boy and Emma is the artsy nerd. These differences are what makes their friendship work.
Grayson is the boy girls fantasize about. On the surface he is perfection. Beneath the surface he is hiding a lot of insecurities, hurt, and horrific secrets. His home life is abusive. The only moments of serenity he gets is when he is with Emma. She is his safe place. She doesn’t know the secrets he is hiding.
Emma wants more than a friendship with Grayson. She has always loved him. She knows that she is not the type of girl that Gray is attracted to. She hides her feelings well and settles for friendship. When she discovers some of the secrets Grayson has been hiding she no longer wants to settle. She is going to fight for Gray. She is going to prove that her love is worth the it all. She is going to prove that he is worthy of love.
This book’s emotional journey escalates as the secrets begin to surface. As the secrets surface it is clear that their world may implode.
The ending was a cliffhanger that has readers anxiously awaiting for the next book.
Cristin Harber is an amazing writer. The book is well written. The emotions portrayed throughout the story touch your soul. The characters are full of life and come across as very real people. The pacing of this story blew me away. This novella felt like a full length novel.
I highly recommend Only For Him.
ABOUT CRISTIN HARBER
Cristin Harber is a USA Today bestselling romantic suspense and military romance author. Fans voted her onto Amazon’s Top Picks for Debut Romance Authors in 2013, and her debut Titan series was #1 romantic suspense, #1 military romance, and a USA Today Top 100 bestseller.
She lives outside Washington, DC with her family and English Bulldog.
In Thoughtless, Kiera told her story. Now it’s time to hear from the sexy rock star who captivated us all . . .
THOUGHTFUL
The only place Kellan Kyle has ever felt at home is onstage. Gripping his guitar in a darkened bar, he can forget his painful past. These days his life revolves around three things: music, his bandmates, and hot hookups. Until one woman changes everything . . .
Kiera is the kind of girl Kellan has no business wanting-smart, sweet, and dating his best friend. Certain he could never be worthy of her love, he hides his growing attraction . . . until Kiera’s own tormented heart hints that his feelings might not be one-sided. Now, no matter the consequences, Kellan is sure of one thing-he won’t let Kiera go without a fight.
Our favorite rock star is back! Kellan Kyle stole our hearts in the Thoughtless trilogy. The latest release, Thoughtful is Kellan’s POV from Thoughtless, the book that began it all.
I have to admit I was a bit nervous about this book. I was fearful it was going to be the exact same book as Thoughtless with the same character motivations. I was also fearful that Kellan’s voice was going to come across more like a female POV. Many writers have attempted to retell a story from a different character’s POV and had epic fails. S. C. Stephens knocked Thoughtful out of the park. This book made me fall in love with Kellan Kyle’s character all over again. It actually endeared him to my heart more so than he already was. I closed this book with a happy heart and a satisfied mind.
S. C. Stephens has grown as a writer and mastered her craft. It is quite evident when you compare Thoughtless to Thoughtful. The writing has matured. This book clearly showcased the characters personalities with more depth and realism.
Thoughtful begins when Kellan first meets Kiera. His reaction to her was more than we were led to believe. It was beyond a physical reaction. I felt the intensity of his emotions and his deep need for her. I felt the longing he had deep in his soul.
As Kiera’s and Kellan’s relationship begins to progress the reader gets a better understanding of Kellan’s obsession for his best friend’s girl. Her rejections hurt more than his male pride and ego. They added more wounds to his deeply scarred soul. Her indecisiveness broke his heart. He wanted her to find him worthy of her love. He wanted to be her “one” that captured her heart.
Thoughtful gives the reader more insight to Kellan’s abusive childhood and a better understanding of his adult behaviors. The reader got to see where his insecurities developed and drove him to his manwhore obsessions. It validated the behaviors that led to Kellan being a manwhore. He was never shown love or affection. He never had any kind of healthy relationship whether it be a platonic , romantic, or family.
The reader got to experience all the swoon worthy love scenes, forbidden moments, and sneaking around in a whole new light. These moments affected Kellan just as deeply as they did Kiera if not more so. It seemed Kellan had more at stake because he allowed himself to become vulnerable. He never allowed himself hope.
The best part of Thoughtful was how it portrayed Kellan and Kiera’s love for each other. This book validated every action they were driven to take. They did it all for the possibility of a love that would last a lifetime. They did it because it was what their hearts needed to survive.
The moments of love, heartbreak, betrayal, and hope made this book a solid 5 Star book and 2015 Favorite. It made Kellan Kyle the man we love so dearly.
Kellan Kyle owns me!
The Thoughtless Series
Thoughtless – Book 1
For almost two years now, Kiera’s boyfriend, Denny, has been everything she’s ever wanted: loving, tender, and endlessly devoted to her. When they head off to a new city to start their lives together—Denny at his dream job and Kiera at a top-notch university—everything seems perfect. Then an unforeseen obligation forces the happy couple apart. Feeling lonely, confused, and in need of comfort, Kiera turns to an unexpected source—a local rock star named Kellan Kyle. At first, he’s purely a friend she can lean on, but as her loneliness grows, so does their relationship. And then one night everything changes…and none of them will ever be the same.
After being caught in the middle of a love triangle that led to a devastating betrayal, Kiera pledged to learn from the mistakes she’d made. She was determined to never again inflict that kind of pain on anyone, especially the soulful, talented man who held her heart. But life offers new challenges for every relationship, and when Kiera’s love is put to the ultimate test, will it survive? Love is easy…trust is hard.
When the band hits it big, Kiera and Kellan must ask themselves: Can their love for each other withstand the constant pressures of superstardom? The friendships they’ve formed, the new family they’ve found, and the history they’ve forged will all play a part in helping them navigate the turbulent waters of the band’s exploding popularity. A greedy executive hell-bent on success, a declining pop star looking for an edge, and a media circus that twists lies into truths are just some of the obstacles the lovers will have to overcome if they are going to remain together. Fame comes with a price—but will it cost Kiera and Kellan everything?
In Thoughtless, Kiera told her story. Now it’s time to hear from the sexy rock star who captivated us all . . .
The only place Kellan Kyle has ever felt at home is onstage. Gripping his guitar in a darkened bar, he can forget his painful past. These days his life revolves around three things: music, his bandmates, and hot hookups. Until one woman changes everything . . .
Kiera is the kind of girl Kellan has no business wanting-smart, sweet, and dating his best friend. Certain he could never be worthy of her love, he hides his growing attraction . . . until Kiera’s own tormented heart hints that his feelings might not be one-sided. Now, no matter the consequences, Kellan is sure of one thing-he won’t let Kiera go without a fight.
S.C. Stephens is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author who enjoys spending every free moment she has creating stories that are packed with emotion and heavy on romance.
Her debut novel, Thoughtless, an angst-filled love triangle charged with insurmountable passion and the unforgettable Kellan Kyle, took the literary world by storm. Amazed and surprised by the response to the release of Thoughtless in 2009, more stories were quick to follow. Stephens has been writing nonstop ever since.
In addition to writing, Stephens enjoys spending lazy afternoons in the sun reading fabulous novels, loading up her iPod with writer’s block reducing music, heading out to the movies, and spending quality time with her friends and family. She currently resides in the beautiful Pacific Northwest with her two equally beautiful children.
There is nothing happily ever after about my life. My mom is dying of breast cancer. I work four jobs just to keep us going.
What I don’t need to deal with?
Jamie McAlister.
Yeah. Him. Blond, tall, gorgeous. I had a crush on him throughout high school, but he never knew I existed. I don’t even think he knows my name. I was too shy to say a word to him. It seems that everywhere I go, he’s there. And now? He’s kissed me–a lot. And those hot kisses have led to even hotter nights.
I’m falling for him, head over heels. But I don’t know how to fit Jamie into my life. I only know I need him. Which means I have to try for something I never thought was possible. I have to fight for him and a forever kind of love.
THE WITH ME SERIES IN ORDER:
Stay With Me ~ available now (Hailey & Caleb)
Go With Me ~ available now (Daphne & Nick)
Try With Me ~ available now (Zelda & Jamie)
Dream With Me ~ Fall 2015 (Esmé & Griff)
I first stumbled across Elyssa Patrick when I saw a post by Maya Banks on Facebook praising her first book. I figured if Maya Banks was singing her praises that this new author had to good. I downloaded that first book and have become a devout Elyssa Patrick fan. Every single book she has published has been a 5 Star Book. She has ventured from the New Adult genre to Contemporary Romance and Erotic Romance. Each and every book has a fresh voice and a gripping romance. Her characters come to life. The sexual tension, romantic tension, and character tension is a slow build that becomes explosive. The emotional and romantic moments pull at the heart strings. Each and every book has a lively cast of secondary characters that not only supports the leading characters but also finds a place in the reader’s heart. By the end of the book, the reader is not only happy with the outcome of the story, they are also hoping that one of these secondary characters will get their own moment to shine in a future book.
Try With Me is the third book in the With Me series. This series revolves around four sexy college roommates and the women that become a part of their “family”. Try With Me features the Jamie McAlister. Out of the four guys , Jamie is the jokester and easy going one of the group. Not only is he drop dead gorgeous, he is also smart, hard working, loyal, and dependable. It would seem he has everything going for him. He wants to have a steady relationship like his two other roommates have. There is only one girl he wants to have that relationship with. A girl he knew in high school. A girl that was out of his league. He wants Zelda.
Zelda’s life didn’t go as she planned after she graduated high school. She didn’t go to Harvard. In fact she didn’t go to college at all. Her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. She has spent the last three years taking care of her mother, searching for new treatments to help her mother, and working four jobs to make ends meet. She does’t have time for a social life. She doesn’t have time for herself. Her mother has reached the end of her treatments and has about six weeks to live. Zelda wants to bring her home and spend the rest of her time with her. Zelda’s life is in complete chaos. When she runs into Jamie McAlister, the one boy she had a crush on in high school, she doesn’t have time for love. How can she resist the one man she has always wanted?
Zelda and Jamie will find the love they always wanted but never thought they could have. Zelda will gain a new group of friends that will be there when she needs them the most. Zelda will learn life to live life to the fullest. She will be able to go on after a devastating loss.
Try With Me was my favorite book in this series. It was emotional, heartbreaking, uplifting, and humorous. It portrayed real life. I loved Jamie. His quirky humor and steadfast personality made it easy to fall in love with him.
Read Try With Me by Elyssa Patrick. Read the With Me Series.
With Me Series
Stay With Me – Book 1
‘ve been famous since I can remember. Singing, acting, dancing–I’ve done it all. The tabloids cover my every move, but I don’t want that anymore. I want to be normal, whatever that is.
When I leave Hollywood for college in Vermont, I’m on my own for the first time in my life. This is my chance to figure out who I am and what I want in life.
But it’s a lot harder than I expected. I can’t escape my image. Classes are difficult, and I’m struggling. And then there’s Caleb Fox.
Sexy, intriguing Caleb Fox.
Caleb is the one man who doesn’t want to use me. He breaks down my walls. He challenges me. He wants me. And I just don’t know if I can give him the same–or if he’ll stick around when he finds out my shameful secret that the tabloids haven’t managed to uncover.
Dating him is risky enough, but loving him could break me.
1. I hate Nick Brady. Loathe. Abhor. Can’t stand him 95% of the time.
2. That other 5%? I’m not talking about that at all.
3. People think I’m lucky for surviving the car crash. I disagree.
4. Nick is the only guy who makes my nightmares go away.
5. I won’t love him, though. Love is not worth the pain.
I, Nick Brady, have a few confessions of my own:
1. I don’t hate Daphne Fox. At all.
2. I find her scar sexy. Just like the rest of her.
3. I may be her older brother’s best friend, but that’s not going to stop me.
4. I love her.
5. And I’m going to do everything I can to have her.
Elyssa Patrick is a former high school English teacher who left the classroom to write sexy, funny, emotional contemporary romances. She is currently hard at work on her next novel.
We’re so excited to host the release day launch for Daisy Prescott’s Confessions of a Reformed Tom Cat!! Daisy is sharing an excerpt with us, and a fantastic giveaway, so be sure to read all the way down to check out all the release day excitement!!
Confessions of A Reformed Tom Cat
Modern Love Stories – Book 4
By Daisy Prescott
Synopsis
I, Thomas Clifford Donnely, am a manwhore.
I’ve been told I’m irresistible to women. Like catnip for a different type of pussy-cat. I guess you could call me a Tom Cat.
This is the story about how I lost my wingman, broke all my own rules, and found myself falling in love.
Tom Donnelly isn’t the marrying kind, or the dating kind. Even after losing his #1 wingman to love, he doesn’t see the point in relationships. When his sister’s best friend returns to Whidbey Island and propositions Donnelly for a one-night stand, he breaks one of his biggest rules—no fooling around with his sisters’ friends. It’s just sex, nothing more. That’s what Tom does and does well.
What happens when “just sex” isn’t enough?
Hailey King is more than a match for Tom’s flirtations. She’s known him most of her life and has heard the rumors about his “skills” for years. When her perfectly planned future falls apart, will the last man she should ever fall for turn out to be more than a one-night stand?
This is the first book I have read by Daisy Prescott. I absolutely loved her writing style, witty dialogue, and sense of humor. The Confessions of A Reformed Tom Cat was entertaining, fun, charming, sexy, and romantic. I loved that the book was written from Tom’s POV and each chapter was a confession. He is a fun guy that doesn’t take himself too seriously and recognizes his faults as well as strengths. He loves his family, he’s hard working, he’s honest, and he’s true. Watching this man whore fall was fun and swoon worthy.
Hailey is one of those heroines that is easy to love. She has known Tom since childhood. He is her best friend’s older brother. She’s got his number, she knows that he is a manwhore with a revolving door. She still can’t help falling for him. When it becomes clear that she is the perfect woman for him, she gives him a few lessons that will capture his attention and heart.
This book was a fun, witty, and sexy read. I highly recommend it. Daisy Prescott Bio:
Before writing bestselling contemporary adult romances, I dreamed of being an author while doing a lot of other things. Antiques dealer, baker, blue ribbon pie-maker, fangirl, freelance writer, gardener, pet mom and wife are a few of the other titles I’ve acquired over the years.
Born and raised in San Diego, I currently lives in a real life Stars Hollow in the Boston suburbs with my husband, our dog Hubbell, and an imaginary house goat.
That is until the Cappo’s sister walked into my life.
And changed everything.
She’s a light who makes my darkness darker, her smile makes my heart turn to ice, and I can’t escape the fear her seductive looks instill–knowing it’s only a matter of time before I fail–again, and take her for myself.
This is the story of my redemption.
But it’s not pretty…I died, and now I’m alive, but not living, breathing but not surviving. I am Phoenix De Lange, son to a murdered mob boss, estranged brother, horrible friend, monster in the making, newest leader to one of the most powerful families in the Cosa Nostra.
And I will have my vengeance.
Or die trying.
I am Phoenix De Lange.
Death is all I know.
Until she offers me a piece of life–I can’t resist taking.
Once we were on the road, Phoenix chose the correct music for our drive. I say correct because, according to him, one didn’t start the day listening to hip-hop or anything remotely fun. No. Mr. Rogers had me listening to classical music.
Classical.
Mozart, to be exact.
Not that I wasn’t a fan of the arts, but really? It just seemed so against what you would expect from him. He was the bad boy personified; like, if you put his name in the dictionary, right next to it would be “And mothers warned their daughters to stay away, but the heart wants what the heart wants, and that heart wants that body… bad.”
He was all lean muscle and tight abs.
And I could have sworn he had a dimple, but I’d never actually seen it. Phoenix’s dimple was like Bigfoot; I’d seen glimpses in pictures and via rumors, but I had never actually seen it for myself.
One day.
One day I’d catch it and take a mental picture or five. Maybe ten. Needless to say, I knew that if I had one of his smiles, it would be a magical thing.
His hands gripped the steering wheel so hard I had a brief moment of panic thinking he was actually going to rip the thing from the dash and have a breakdown. Sad part? I half-expected it. He wasn’t acting normal… well, he was always moody, but this morning he seemed downright suicidal.
“So…” I tried to zone out the instruments assaulting my sanity. “You went to Eagle Elite, right?”
He was quiet for a minute then gave a swift nod.
“Wow, don’t talk so fast. I almost didn’t get all that.”
And crickets. Again.
I cleared my throat. “You graduate?”
“Sort of.”
“How do you sort of graduate?”
“Did you bring lunch money?” He asked in a tight voice.
I gaped. “Did you just ask me if I brought lunch money?”
He shrugged.
“You’re driving me to school, forcing Mozart on my poor sensitive morning ears, and just asked me if I had money for milk.”
“I’m concerned about you eating. Sue me.”
“Pretty sure the Nicolasi boss can afford to spare me a few dollars for a sandwich and a can of pop.”
“No pop.”
“Who died and made you my grandpa? Seriously. I want to know so I can steal your gun and point it at them.”
“Nobody touches my gun.”
“Which one?” I smirked, hoping he’d find the humor in my sexual innuendo, but who was I kidding? It was Phoenix. He simply grunted, rolled his eyes, and kept driving.
In a moment of pure rebellion, I undid the first two buttons of my white, collared shirt.
“What the hell do you think you’re doing?” he asked, his voice calm, his eyes still on the road.
“Wow, you really are like a parent. You can see me even when you aren’t looking.”
“Button that shit to your chin before I pull this car over.”
“Put on Jay-Z, and we’ll talk.”
More cursing.
I undid another button.
“Son of a bitch, you’re annoying.”
“Is this our first lovers’ spat?”
“Were there drugs in your toast?” He finally glanced at me, his blue eyes chilling me to the bone. “Be serious. I don’t want to get called into the dean’s office because you’re high.”
“Do I look like I’m on drugs?”
“Is this a trick question?”
Michel’s Review
HOLY EVER LOVING CRAP! Ember, the fifth book in the Eagle Elite series was INTENSE!
Ember is Phoenix De Lange’s book. This man is a killer, a rapist, an abuser, a ghost, an enforcer, and a MONSTER. He has betrayed the family. He has betrayed himself. A death sentence is too easy and too painless for Phoenix De Lange. Redemption is impossible. Or is it?
Phoenix De Lange never stood a chance in life or in the family. He was a monster by birth. His father made him a horrific human being. His actions betrayed the family. He almost killed Nixon Abandonato’s ( the head leader of the families in the United States) woman, Trace Rooks (granddaughter of the Alfero family). His betrayal brought the Luca Nicolosi, leader of the original Sicilian family to the States to decide the fate of all five families. This should of been his death sentence. Luca Nicolosi issued a verdict worse than death. He made Phoenix De Lange a ghost, an enforcer, a protector, and a leader. He saw that there was redemption in Phoenix De Lange’s soul. He saw the man that was buried deep beneath the hideous surface. He saw a man with that craved absolution. He gave him a second chance.
Phoenix De Lange may still be physically alive and breathing but in his heart he is a dead man. He cannot forgive himself for his past. He will put his life on the line every time a family member is threatened. He will sacrifice himself before he allows any harm to come to his family and friends. He does not expect his family to forgive or forget. He continually punishes himself for his past. He is a haunted man without any hope. He does not understand why Luca chose him to lead the Nicolosi family. He does not understand why Luca gave him the key to all of the family secrets. He does not understand why Luca gave him Bee Campisi ( the Cappo’s, Tex Campsisi, little sister) to protect. He hates that he wants her. She is sunshine and rainbows. She is everything good. She is everything he does not deserve… and she loves him. Can he stay away from her and keep her untainted from his ugliness? Or will she be the final nail in his coffin?
There is a storm brewing within the family. The Russian’s are on the horizon. They are threatening the family. The FBI is knocking on their door. The Family is about to be destroyed. Someone in the family is betraying them all. Phoenix knows who it is, after all he knows all the family secrets. Can he save the family? Can he keep Bee from be touched by the war that is coming. Will he have to kill a man that is one of his brothers? Will he walk out with his heart as cold as it was or will he succumb to his true feelings for Bee?
Luca saw redemption within Phoenix’s soul. Now it is up to Phoenix to rise from the ashes and soar.
The war is coming. The Russians are at the door. One man will be sacrificed for his betrayal. One man will pay the price. Welcome to the family…blood in…no out.
The Eagle Elite series is a complex and intricately woven series. There are plots within plots. Each book features a different family and the individual members. They are tightly connected to all the characters throughout the series. The grand plot grows throughout each book. Ember cannot be read as a stand alone book. Phoenix De Lange’s story began in Elite and has progressed throughout the first four books in the series.
Phoenix De Lange is a character that has been quite a force throughout this series. In the beginning he was a monster that deserved to be hated. He proved that there many layers in his persona. He has evolved from being the devil himself to a broken man. My heart broke for him. I wanted him to find a slice of happiness that could be his and only his. Rachel gave him a life worth living and a future to look forward to.
Ember set up the next book in the Eagle Elite Series. The next book is Elude, will release in July 2015. It is going to be a shocker.
Rachel Van Dyken is the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today Bestselling author of regency and contemporary romances. When she’s not writing you can find her drinking coffee at Starbucks and plotting her next book while watching The Bachelor.
She keeps her home in Idaho with her Husband and their snoring Boxer, Sir Winston Churchill. She loves to hear from readers! You can follow her writing journey at www.rachelvandykenauthor.com
New York’s Finest
Blogging as *The Socialmedialite*
April 22
LADIES AND GENTS! I have an announcement!
You know that guy I featured on my blog a few months ago? The really, really hot Irish rugby player who plays the position of ‘hooker’ in the RLI (Rugby League International)? The one with the anger management issues, the body of a gladiator and the face of a movie star? The one with the questionable fashion choices leading me to ask whether he was the lovechild of a leprechaun and a hobbit? Ronan Fitzpatrick? Yeah, that guy. Well, I have a confession to make…
THE HERMIT
Annie Catrel, social media expert extraordinaire at Davidson & Croft Media and clandestine celebrity blogger, can make anyone shine in the court of public opinion. She is the Socialmedialite, anonymous creator of New York’s Finest and the internet’s darling. Virtual reality is Annie’s forte, but actual reality? Not so much.
THE HOOKER
Ronan Fitzpatrick, aka the best hooker the world of rugby has seen in decades, despises the media—social or otherwise. The press has spun a web of lies depicting him as rugby’s wild and reckless bad boy. Suspended from his team, Ronan has come to Manhattan to escape the drama, lay low, fly under the radar. Only, Ronan isn’t easy to overlook, and he can’t escape the notice of the Socialmedialite…
THE PLAN
When Ronan is sent to Davidson & Croft Media to reshape his public image, he never expects to cross paths with shy but beautiful Annie, nor does he expect his fierce attraction to her. He couldn’t be happier when her boss suggests pairing them together.
What lengths will Annie take to keep her virtual identity concealed? And what happens when the hooker discovers who the hermit really is?
The Hooker and the Hermit is a collaboration between authors L.H. Cosway and Penny Reid, is a full length 110k word novel, and is a standalone.
The Hermit and The Hooker by L.H. Cosway and Penny Reid has taken the romance reading world by surprise. The title alone is catchy enough to intrigue readers to download this book. The cover with the player wearing spandex and bright green with strategically drawn circles catches undivided attention. The synopsis demands that this book must be read. Top off all of the those great qualities with the fact that two outstanding authors, L.H. Conway and Penny Reid, teamed up to write this book!
All of the social media platforms are blowing up about this book. It is giving Ronin Fitzpatrick the positive attention he desperately needs. It is bringing Annie Catrel out of her cave and into the limelight.
Ronin Fitzpatrick has come to New York to escape the negative media exposure he has been receiving since he was suspended from his team in Ireland. His temper and rash actions have earned him the “bad boy” reputation. He needs to lay low, stay off the media’s radar, and chill out. He hates being away from his team, away from Ireland, and desperately misses his family. He has only one friend in New York. He has nothing but time on his hands. He choses to use this time to extensively train. He wants to be in top shape when he can finally return to the team. When a popular blogger posts a picture of him on their blog with derogatory remarks, he blows his gasket. He quickly begins to spar with the Socialmedialite through emails. Once again he is in the limelight of the media’s ridiculous circus. Not good!
Annie Catrel is a brilliant social media expert. She can work wonders and make Satan look like a boy scout. Her skills are highly sought after and any celebrity that is assigned to her will shine brightly. Annie is great with social media platforms but she is horrible with one on one interaction with people. She is a self imposed hermit and only interacts when she absolutely has to because of her job at Davidson & Croft Media. Behind the scenes she is secretly a popular celebrity blogger. Online she can be herself, speak her mind, and interact with people.
When Ronin is sent to Davidson & Croft for a media makeover, he is in for so much more. When he first lays eyes on Annie, he is a goner. He wants her in his life, in his bed, and wrapped around him. Luck is on his side, Annie has been exclusively assigned to his profile. She will be his handler.
As these two get to know one another they quickly realize that there is more than meets the eye. Ronin is quite the different man than the media portrays. Annie is slowly learning to come out her shell and show Ronin some of her personal brilliance that only shines in her blog.
When these two finally get their relationship on track, the media world will tear them apart. Ronin has bones in his closet. Ronin has enemies that will stop at nothing to destroy his reputation. Annie has a secret as well, a secret that will make Ronin despise her. Although her blog has been the one thing that brings her self respect, it is also the one thing that will destroy her relationship with Ronin.
Can these two find a way to love each other in spite of everything?
The Hermit and The Hooker was brilliantly written and executed. It was entertaining, humorous, witty, emotional, and sexy. Both characters were brilliant. They both had many unique qualities that endeared them to the readers. The dialogue and perfect timing made this book stand out. The romance was realistic, believable, and red hot. Everything about this book was excellent.
I highly recommend The Hermit and The Hooker.
About The Authors
L.H. Cosway has a BA in English Literature and Greek and Roman Civilisation, and an MA in Postcolonial Literature. She lives in Dublin city. Her inspiration to write comes from music. Her favourite things in life include writing stories, vintage clothing, dark cabaret music, food, musical comedy, and of course, books.
She thinks that imperfect people are the most interesting kind. They tell the best stories.
ABOUT PENNY:
Penny Reid is a part time author of romantic fiction. When she is not immersed in penning smart romances she works full time in the biotech industry as a researcher. She’s also a full time mom to two diminutive adults (boy-7 and girl-5), wife, daughter, knitter, crocheter, sewer, general crafter, and thought hijacker.
New York Times bestselling author Sawyer Bennett hits the ice with the story of a playboy athlete whose winning ways lead him to a beautiful woman with a lot to lose.
Carolina Cold Fury star Garrett Samuelson never wants to miss out on a single minute of fun. Whether he’s playing hockey, hanging out with friends, or walking the red carpet with a new date on his arm, he lives every day to the fullest. When he meets Olivia Case, he sees someone who’s exactly his type—confident, sexy, smart . . . his next fling. But the more he pursues her, the more Garrett shares a side of himself that other women don’t normally get to see.
Olivia has been keeping a secret. While Garrett lives for the next thrill, Olivia’s not sure she’ll live to see the next day. She’s undergoing treatment for some serious medical issues, and she doesn’t have time for a relationship with no guarantees—especially one with a hot-as-sin womanizer who won’t take no for an answer. But as she gets to know the real Garrett, Olivia can’t help falling for him . . . hard. To reveal the truth would mean risking everything—but you can’t score without taking the tough shots.
Sawyer delivers an emotional rollercoaster that reminds us that life is too short not to live it to its fullest. We can sit around and worry about when the end will come or we can truly live and love for as long as we are given. This story is about love and loss and reminds us that no matter what we do, that often life is not fair. This read was not at all what I expected. I was up reading until 2:30 am and then had to turn around and get up at 6:00 am for work the next morning. I thought I was getting a steamy and sexy hockey story and what I ended up with was so much more. Sawyer shook me to my core and knocked the wind out of me. I have never finished a book in tears where I could not stop the overflow of emotions. Get your tissues ready and make sure you have some chocolate on hand because you will need them.
Garrett Samuelson is your typical sexy hockey player that often takes women to bed in pairs. He is the king of the one night stand and never spends more than one night with any woman. All of that changes when he meets Olivia. From the moment he first sees her he is stumbling all over himself and of course hits on her with the cheesiest pickup line. The thing is that he truly believes that she is the most beautiful woman he has ever seen. My favorite scene in this read is when Garrett tries to get Olivia to give him the time of day and she blows him off. I adore it when the good girl gives the bad boy the brush off. Garrett is extremely perplexed because he is not used to women that do not swoon at his feet. Olivia provides him with a serious challenge and he begins to rethink his one night no repeats mantra.
Olivia Case has a lot on her plate. She has just received some news that she has yet to process and does not have the time or desire to start a relationship with someone right now. However, she is very attracted to Garrett and one night with him between the sheets might be just what she needs to take her mind off of things. He is safe since he is not the relationship type and even though it is not in her good girl nature to go after a man that will forget her by the next evening she is so very tempted to make him put his money where his mouth is. The problem is that even when you think something is a sure thing sometimes it’s not. Olivia never saw what was coming when she tempted the king of one night stands.
I absolutely adored this read and loved that we get to see Sutton and Alex again as well. If you are looking for something different to read that is not predictable and will keep you turning the pages then look no further. Garrett will have your heart overflowing with love and will remind you that everything is never what it seems and you can never judge a book by its cover. In this case even though the cover is smoking hot there is so much more to the story then just some sexy times between the sheets. Bravo Sawyer for taking me on an emotional journey that I will not forget any time soon.
Michel’s Review
Sawyer Bennett scored a 6 star goal with her latest release Garrett , in the Cold Fury Hockey series. This book came as a complete surprise that took the readers on an emotional journey. Sawyer tackled a very heavy subject that can touch any of our lives. She researched the subject and not only used it to write a phenomenal love story, she also enlightened the reader without making it a downer. As in all her books, her characters are so well developed that they become very real people that become a part of the reader’s lives. The relationships between her characters are not only loaded with sexual heat and tension, they are also loaded with very real situations and difficulties that most people experience in their own personal intimate relationships. It’s never easy for two people to come together and have the perfect relationship. It takes commitment, communication, sacrifice, sharing, and placing another person first. Sawyer allows her couples to muddle through, find their way, and work on their flaws. She allows them to experience all the emotions, trials, and triumphs that most every day couples experience. This is what makes the reader connect with the characters and their lives. Sawyer also adds her special blend of magical storytelling that makes these characters larger than life. It is easy for the reader to escape into the world she has created. It is no wonder that she is a New York Times Best Seller.
Garrett is more than a sports romance. It is a story of life, love, loss, friendship, and hope.
Garrett Samuelson is the team manwhore. He’s known for his one night stands. He embraces his “ladies man” reputation with gusto. His one true love is not the ladies, it is his profession. He absolutely lives, breaths, and loves the game of hockey. He is committed to his team and the game.
Olivia Case is a free spirit. She is content with her life. She has a satisfying career, a close knit group of friends, and a great family. She is a happy independent woman. She doesn’t need a relationship to complete her. She is comfortable in her own skin and happy with her life. Everything is great until she receives some bad news that is about to alter it all. It makes her take a deeper look into her life, her goals, and her dreams. It also makes her realize that she has not been living life to the fullest. She needs to grab each moment and make it completely hers.
When Olivia and Garrett meet at a Cold Fury team party, the fireworks go off. These two are hot for one another. They both look at this insta attraction as a possibility of a phenomenal one night stand. For Olivia, it is giving her all to living life to the fullest, allowing pleasure in her complicated life full of trauma. For Garrett, it is spending a fulfilling night with a woman that flips all his buttons. What neither of them realized was that this was their one defining moment that would change their lives forever.
Garrett will have to prove his staying power. Olivia will have to allow Garrett into her inner circle and accept his commitment. Together they will face the world one moment at a time.
This book reached so many emotional depths that define us as people. It showcased the importance of friendship. It proved that love in any shape or form is the most important thing in the game of life.
This book not only brought Garrett and Olivia together. It introduced to new characters in this series. It brought the characters, Sutton and Alex, back into our hearts. Stevie (Olivia’s BF) has become one of my most admired book characters because of that one moment that he made everyone’s day better. And finally there was Zack. Sawyer set up his story and broke all of our hearts right along with his. I cannot wait for June 9th, 2015 to get here. I need this man to be okay. I need him to find a new happiness.
Sawyer Bennett is an ALL STAR WRITER ! Read Garrett!
Author Bio: USA 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. Her husband works for a Fortune 100 company which lets him fly all over the world while she stays at home with their daughter and three 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.
Sawyer is the author of several contemporary romances including the popular Off Series, the Legal Affairs Series and the Last Call Series.
Quinn is looking forward to her senior year at Poe University. She has big plans to hang out with her best friend, flirt with a certain boy genius, party at her favorite dive bar and figure out what she’s going to do after graduation with her not-so-useful art major. But that’s before she meets Luke, a hot townie who’s moved back home to help take care of his dying sister. And it’s before a weird epidemic sweeps across campus, mysteriously turning people’s eyes purple.
Is it an odd side effect from a new party drug?
Is it a rogue virus developed in a campus lab?
Is it the mark of the devil?
Soon the town starts blaming the university and the student religious group becomes frighteningly aggressive in their on-campus accusations. Quinn and Luke are caught in the middle—until a tragic accident forces Luke to reveal the one part of himself he’s kept carefully hidden. That he’s so much more than the happy-go-lucky boy next door Quinn had believed him to be isn’t a surprise…but this truth might be too dangerous for her to handle.
Heartsick by Caitlin Sinead is refreshing change in the New Adult genre. It blended the Romantic Suspense and Fantasy genres to the mix. The plot was unique. There was some mild romance with a romantic triangle thrown into the mix.
What happens when a group of college friends start changing. Their eyes become lavender colored and their immune system is that of a super hero. Their ability to heal is surreal. What is causing this phenomena with these students?
Quinn is the main character in this book. She is an art major at the exclusive Poe University in Virginia. She is looking forward to her senior year. She doesn’t want to be tied down and wants to enjoy her final year with friends. Those hopes are about to change when her roommate’s eyes change to lavender.
It seems as though there is a virus or some kind of chemical change that is affecting a group of students. Their eye colors are changing and their DNA is changing. They are able to heal quickly from severe injuries and physical trauma’s. This phenomena is infecting Quinn’s inner circle of friends, including herself. When it starts to spread among the campus and small town, the government authorities are called in. The pandemonium begins.
At the same time Quinn has just met the sexy townie Luke. He is unlike most of the men she has ever dated. Although she doesn’t really want a relationship, she cannot deny her attraction for him. Luke is also a detective. When this odd virus begins to spread he puts his investigative skills to work.
When murder comes into play it is clear that everyone at Poe University and citizens of the town are in danger.
Heartsick was a riveting romantic suspense. I am going to say romantic very loosely. The reason I am saying loosely is that the build up, sexual tension, and desire between Luke and Quinn was not overly convincing. I never felt the heat between them. I never felt the attraction. In fact it didn’t feel like Quinn was overly interested at all. Then there was another contender added to the mix. Quinn had a history with Rashid. He was still vying for her interest. I never really felt any connection between these two at all.
Although this plot was unique, there were kinks throughout the story. The characters were obscure in some ways. It was hard to get a handle on who they were. Their personalities just didn’t come to life. Their connections to one another were confusing at times and hard to grasp. The sequencing of the story was hard to follow at times. I felt different passages were jumping all over the place. In the end I felt like the conclusion was somewhat rushed.
Overall Heartsick was an interesting story. I just felt like it needed some work to reach the potential it promised.
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About Caitlin Sinead
I am represented by Andrea Somberg at Harvey Klinger, Inc. and my debut novel, Heartsick, will be published by Carina Press in 2015. My writing has appeared (or is forthcoming) in multiple publications including The Alarmist, The Binnacle, Crunchable, Jersey Devil Press, and Northern Virginia Magazine. I earned a master’s degree in writing from Johns Hopkins University in 2011 and have also studied writing at the College of William and Mary and Yale University. I currently work as an editorial manager and continue to keep an eye out for good stories.
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?
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.
I am a huge fan of Cambria Hebert’s books. Each and every book has kept me glued to the pages. Her books always have a special blend of genres with characters that are larger than life.
I wasn’t sure what to expect with the #Hashtag series. The synopsis seemed different from what we have come to expect from Cambria’s books. I thought that this was going to be more of a new adult romance that focused on college campus life (which I love). I was not expecting some romantic suspense to be added to the mix. I wasn’t expecting Romeo. Romeo has stolen my heart! Talk about a swoon worthy book boyfriend, Romeo has it in spades!
Rimmel is more than your average #Nerd. She has come to Alpha University not only to gain an education but also to escape her past in Florida. She keeps to herself, stays ahead of her assignments, and lives for her volunteer work at the animal shelter. She has trouble socializing with her fellow students. The only place she feels free to be herself is with her furry four legged friends. But that is about to change when she is forced to tutor the star quarterback and notorious player, Romeo. She is dreading dealing with the campus manwhore but in order to keep her scholarship she has to deal with it.
At first the tutoring sessions start out as expected. Romeo is more interested in his conquests and football. Rimmel is counting the minutes for each tutoring session to end. These two unlikely people are forced to spend time with one another. In the end they will both discover that they may just have more in common than they thought. The will discover that they both have many layers. They will discover love for the first time.
Meanwhile throughout the book Romeo is rushing for the top Fraternity on campus. His commitment to rushing will take him to an all time low. He will be challenged to do things that he has always considered wrong. When the final challenge crosses the line and threatens to hurt Rimmel he will have choices to make.
Not only is Romeo having to chose between status, image, and his quest to join the fraternity, he has unknowingly made a very lethal enemy.
The opening for the #Hashtag series is thrilling. The journey that Romeo and Rimmel make in this semester is life changing for them both. The love they have found for one another is unexpected. Can they hang onto their love with all the expectations of sports, social status, academics, and their different backgrounds? Will Romeo’s enemy destroy everything they both hold dear? We will find out in #Hater.
#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.
Rimmel and Romeo are settling into their relationship. Rimmel is becoming more confident and comfortable with herself. Romeo is moving on beyond what his social status requires.
Rimmel and Romeo are the couple that has become campus celebrities. Their every move is watched, tweeted,and posted by all. They are the stars that shine brightly.
Everything seems to be going well for them. Their relationship is growing. Romeo’s family is accepting Rimmel. Rimmel is building friendships and other relationships outside of the animal shelter. There is one thing that casts a dark shadow on their happiness.
Zach about ruined their relationship in #Nerd. He forced Romeo to quit rushing for the Omega Fraternity. He underestimated Romeo’s wits and tenacity. He underestimated Romeo’s power. Romeo has destroyed Zach’s status as the president of Omega. His influence has turned his brothers against him. Now he is going to destroy Romeo and Rimmel. He is out for blood.
As Zach’s vendetta escalates to the point of terror, Romeo and Rimmel will have other things coming at them from other parts of their lives. Both are enough to tear them apart and ruin their futures. Will they be able to overcome these adversities?
One moment of terror will destroy their hope for the future. It looks like Zach has had his final revenge that will destroy the rest of their lives. How can they overcome this? To make matters worse, Rimmel’s past is coming to haunt her. Secrets are being revealed that she may never be able to overcome.
What happens next? Cliffhanger! I cannot wait to get my hands on #Player, book 3, on March 9, 2015.
#Hater was consuming. I could not put this book down. I loved how Romeo handled everything. I loved how he brought out the best in Rimmel and gave her courage to be herself. I loved that Rimmel saw Romeo as more than a jock.
This couple will steal your heart!
Read the #Hashtag Series by 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.
Dixie has been writing stories for years, storing ideas and first drafts of manuscripts in every spare closet and drawer. Then one day she decided she wanted to be an author more than anything, pulled out one of those story ideas and got serious!
Saucy Southern Readers 