Review: When Day Breaks by Maya Banks – KGI Series – Book 9

Posted on 07/17/2014 by shellbellereads

When Day Breaks

By Maya Banks

Synopsis

THE ALL-NEW KGI NOVEL BY NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELING AUTHOR AUTHOR MAYA BANKS

The Kelly Group International (KGI): A super-elite, top secret, family-run business. Qualifications: High intelligence, rock-hard body, military background. Mission: Hostage/kidnap victim recovery. Intelligence gathering. Handling jobs the U.S. government can’t…

Eden is said to be one of the most beautiful women in the world. Her face has graced countless magazines and her body has sold millions of dollars of clothing. But her fame and beauty has earned her more than she ever imagined. Evil is stalking her, determined to extinguish the ethereal beauty forever.

Swanson or “Swanny” as his teammates call him is always up for the next mission. He came back from Afghanistan wounded and scarred. Hardly the kind of man who even belongs in the same room with Eden. And yet there’s something about the quiet beauty that stirs his blood and makes him dream of the impossible. Because Beauty loving the Beast only happens in fairy tales and KGI doesn’t deal in fairy tales. Ever.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Michel’s Review

2.5 Stars

I have been a huge fan of the KGI series by Maya Banks. I have been reading this series since the first book was published a few years ago. It is one of my go to series. I am pre ordering the next book the moment it is available. I have become very invested in the Kelly Group International. They are alpha men, strong women, a mission, a sizzling romance, and overall family saga. It is hot romantic suspense at it’s best.

Sadly to say, When Day Breaks, book 9 in the KGI series just did not live up to the excellent standards as the previous books in this series set.

The other books in this series have all had a strong romantic suspense element in the plots. When Day Breaks fell short. It lacked action, edge of the seat suspense, and was predictable. It also lacked the strong family feeling of unity. Although the other Kelly members were present, the reader just did not feel that “support” that has been so strongly present in the other books. I think this is because Maya was focusing on Swanny’s wounded soul. And yes while this was important, it is also important to see how the Kelly family brought him into the fold and gave him a place to belong. We just did not feel that in this book.

Overall I really love Swanny’s character. He is a wounded soul with scars on the inside as well as outside. He is a caring man with a lot to give others.

Swanny is paired up with Eden, a super model. I did not care much for her character. Her entire character is based off her looks, how others reacted to her looks, preconceive notions about models, and how her persona was more than that. It was hard to get past that and see how she really fell for the entire person that Swanny is.

I think Maya wanted to show that looks don’t make a difference, that beauty can love the beast, and that there is more to every person under the surface. And while she did that, she lost the focus of the romance, sexual chemistry, plot, and action that we have come to expect in the KGI books.

I am still completely invested in the KGI series. I still love Swanny. I was just hoping that his book would be the best in the series. But we still have Joe’s story to come. I am looking forward to it.

Author Bio:

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

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Review: Proving Paul’s Promise by Tammy Falkner- Book 5 Reed Brothers Series

Posted on 07/16/2014 by shellbellereads

Proving Paul’s Promise by Tammy Falkner

The Reed Brothers Series Book 5

Synopsis

*Intended for readers over the age of 18 due to sexual content and the fact that the heroine has a potty mouth.* 🙂

This book is part of the Reed Brothers series, but you don’t have to read them in order. This book can be read as a stand alone.

Series reading order:

Tall, Tatted, and Tempting (currently free)

Smart, Sexy, and Secretive

Calmly, Carefully, Completely

Finally Finding Faith

Just Jelly Beans and Jealousy

Reagan’s Revenge and Ending Emily’s Engagement

Maybe Matt’s Miracle

He has watched her from afar…

Paul Reed has been raising children since he was a child himself, but he wouldn’t change his life, even if given an opportunity. That is, until one of his brothers says four little words that shake the foundation of his world. “She’s not a lesbian,” shouldn’t be quite so earth shattering, but suddenly the woman he loves is available, and he’ll do whatever it takes to win her over.

They call her Friday, and she’s hiding more than just her name…

Friday has worked in the Reeds’ tattoo parlor for four years. She’s become more than just an employee, and she loves being in the middle of something so wonderful. She treasures the way the Reeds live for one another, and she adores the way they take care of their family. She would do just about anything to be part of it, if not for the fact that she doesn’t deserve a family of her own. Or does she? Friday is punishing herself for her past, and by doing so, she pushes away the one man who could truly love her.

Separately, they’re strong. Together, they’re vulnerable. As a team, they rock.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

6 Star Review

by Michel

It is no secret that the Reed Brothers Series by Tammy Falkner is one of my all time favorite series. Each brother and each book has captured my heart . I love the family dynamics, dedication to one another, their compassion for others, their honest views, and interactions with their inner circle of friends, aquaintances, business associates, and extended family. Once the Reed Brothers take someone into their fold, they are fiercely loved.

The Reed Family consists of 5 brothers. After the death of their mother and their father’s abandonment they did everything to keep their family together. These five young men grew from teens to strong young men on their own. They held onto the values they had been taught as children and learned many more as they fought to keep their family together. They have survived many trials and tribulations. Through it all they had each other’s backs. One had cancer, one was a convict, one had special needs, one has their hopes to finish college and become a professional ball player and one has been the father figure that gave up his hopes and dreams to keep their family together. He promised his brothers that their life would turn out okay and did everything within his power to keep that promise. That brother is the oldest of the Reed clan and the one they all look to. Proving Paul’s Promise is the book that finally gives the oldest Reed a chance at his hopes and dreams.

Paul sacrificed his youth, his dreams, and his own happiness to raise his younger brothers. His long time girlfriend broke up with him because she didn’t want the responsibilities of the Reed clan. He is a single father dedicated to his little girl. He has watched his younger brothers grow from boys to men. He has stood strong when sickness and death threatened one of his brothers. He fought to keep the two youngest, the twins , on a positive path that would lead to bright futures. Although one became a convict, he still turned out to be successful in life because of the values Paul instilled in him at a young age.

Paul has watched three of his brothers struggle with their lives and chase their dreams. He has watched them find their true loves and start families. Only one brother is still single and in college. He has the apartment to himself and at loose ends. He still runs the family tattoo shop. In that shop is the one thing he wants more than anything. That is Friday. She has become an extended member of the Reed clan. She has seen their ups and downs. She loves them as if they were her own family. She secretly loves Paul but refuses to do anything about it. Her life is too screwed up. She has turned her back on her own family. How can she possibly have a relationship with a man when she can’t even handle her own life and relationships. Especially with a man like Paul, who is dedicated to his family no matter what. Paul promises her he won’t let her down, he will always have her back, and he will love her no matter what. Can she accept everything Paul has to offer? Paul has always kept his promises and never turns away.

I absolutely loved this book. Tammy Falkner showed vulnerabilities in two very strong people. She showed the readers a very different side of Paul Reed that made us love and respect him more. Of course we got to see how the Reed clan’s lives are moving forward and growing. As always it is a fabulous read.

This book can be read as a stand alone novel or in series order. I would highly recommend reading the series. It has been on my favorites list since the summer of 2013. Each and every book has been a 5 + book.

I can’t wait for the last brother, Sam’s book. I have a feeling Sam is going to be on his toes and baking up a storm to win his own love for life.

The Reed Brothers Series

1. Tall, Tatted, and Tempting

2. Smart, Sexy and Secretive

3. Calmly, Carefully, Completely

3.25 Finally Finding Faith

3.5 Just Jelly Beans and Jealousy

3. 75 Reagan’s Revenge

4. Maybe Matt’s Miracle

5. Proving Paul’s Promise

About Tammy Falkner:

Tammy Falkner lives on a farm in a lovely, sprawling little town in rural NC with her beekeeper husband and a house full of boys, a few dogs, and a cat or two (or five – who has time to count?). As half of the Lydia Dare team, she has co-written ten books, including the Westfield Wolves series and the Gentlemen Vampyre series. A huge fan of Regency England, she wrote three books for Sourcebooks as Tammy Falkner, featuring Regency Faeries, and just began her first New Adult adult series.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Review: Against The Cage by Sidney Halston

Posted on 07/16/2014 by shellbellereads

Against The Cage

Sidney Halston

Synopsis:

In her Loveswept debut, Sidney Halston turns up the heat as a sexy cage fighter shows a former bookworm how delicious a few rounds between the sheets can be.

For Chrissy Martin, returning to her Florida hometown always seems to bring bad luck. The day starts with a breakup text, followed by a jailhouse phone call from her troublemaker brother. Now a routine traffic stop has ended with her accidentally punching an officer . . . in a delicate place. Then Chrissy realizes that the hot cop on the receiving end of her right hook is none other than the man from her teenage fantasies.

Jack Daniels knows how to take a hit. After all, when he’s not chasing reckless drivers, he’s kicking ass in a mixed martial arts ring. So what takes his breath away isn’t the low blow, but the woman who dealt it: a gorgeous knockout with legs Jack wouldn’t mind being pinned under—who just so happens to be his best friend’s nerdy little sister, all grown up. Soon their instant chemistry leads to a sizzling affair, but Jack and Chrissy are fighting an uphill battle if they want to make love last beyond the final bell.

Praise for Against the Cage

“Against the Cage is funny, steamy, scorching, and holy hot MMA fighter, I wanted more! Five stars all the way!”—New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Toni Aleo

“A steamy and fun romance that will leave readers begging for more! Sidney Halston is an author to watch!”—New York Times bestselling author Cherry Adair

“Halston’s new series opener creates an organic and sensual dynamic between Jack and Chrissy that makes an easy buy-in for readers. And if the story isn’t endearing enough, Jack’s feisty Chihuahua/pit bull mix will have readers instantly hooked and eagerly awaiting the second series installment.”—Library Journal

“A charming and funny Loveswept debut [that] entertained me thoroughly, made me laugh and wormed its way into my heart.”—Swept Away by Romance

“If you’re looking for a good contemporary romance, I cannot recommend Against the Cage enough!”—For Love and Books

“[Against the Cage] has a little of everything . . . from funny to sweet to simply hot! . . . This one was a joy to read, and I definitely recommend it.”—The Book Reading Gals

“Fast-paced, steamy . . . a great summer read! Enjoy!”—Talk Books to Me

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Rising Star

Michel’s Review

Against The Cage is the debut novel by Sidney Halston. It is a winner. The story is well written, the plot is well developed, the dialogue is fun and witty. The characters are charming, snarky, and loveable…including the Chihuahua named Drogo. This little guy ( claimed to be ¼ pit bull )made the book . He was hilarious. Best of all Against The Cage is a MMA Fighter book.

Against The Cage is based on childhood friends that become lovers twenty years later. Slade and Jack have been best friends since they were young boys. Slade’s younger, akward younger sister Chrissy was always the shy, smart, goofy girl trying to fit in with the boys. After a tragic event takes place Chrissy leaves town and returns eleven years later to bail her brother Slade out of jail.

When Chrissy arrives in town it turns out to be her worst day ever. She is pulled over for speeding after leaving the courthouse. The cop ends up being none other than Jack, her brother’s best friend. From there their relationship begins to develop. What starts as a rocky relationship harboring old resentments and issues evolves into a strong friendship that evolves into a romantic heartfelt love affair. The road isn’t easy but was fun getting there.

The chemistry and banter between Chrissy and Jack is sizzling.

Against The Cage held my full attention. It played on many emotions. One moment I was laughing my butt off, then I was yelling at the characters, then I was crying right along with them, and then I was swooning and falling head over heels in love. This book had everything a reader could want in a book.

I highly recommend Against The Cage by Sidney Halston. It’s a great debut and I look forward to reading more from this author.

Author Bio:

Sidney Halston lives her life with one simple rule: “The secret of getting ahead is getting started.”-Mark Twain. Or even simpler, “Just Do It”–Nike. And that’s exactly what she did.

After working hard as an attorney, Sidney picked up a pen for the first time at thirty years old to begin her dream of writing. Having never written anything other than very exciting legal briefs, she found an outlet for her imaginative, romantic side and wrote Seeing Red. That first pen stroke sealed the deal, and she fell in love with writing. Sidney lives in South Florida with her husband and children. She loves her family above all else, and reading follows a close second. When she’s not writing, you can find her reading and reading and reading. She’s a reader first and a writer second. When she’s not writing or reading, her life is complete and utter chaos, trying to balance family life with work and writing (and reading). But she wouldn’t have it any other way.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Review: Breaking Danger by Lisa Marie Rice – Ghost Ops Book 3

Posted on 07/16/2014 by shellbellereads

Breaking Danger

By Lisa Marie Rice

Synopsis

Only one man and one woman can stop the world from burning in this thrilling final volume in Lisa Marie Rice’s sexy Ghost Ops series, in which an elite super-secret military team must face down doomsday and protect the gifted women they love.

Haven, a community of misfits and geniuses, is one of the few safe places remaining in a world on fire. Run by the Ghost Ops team, three dangerous, fearless, soldiers who were once betrayed and disgraced will fiercely protect their country and the women they adore from a deadly plague that has turned people into violent monsters.

Beautiful brilliant Dr. Sophie Daniels is trapped in her home with the only antidote to the plague. Former Ghost Ops elite operative Jon Ryan is sent on a suicide rescue mission, brutally fighting his way to her side. Together they must cross treacherous terrain before they can return to Haven. But for them to succeed, Sophie must trust this tormented soul and place her life, and her heart, in his hands.

Years of combat training has prepared Jon for this moment. Unafraid, nothing is too dangerous now that he’s found Sophie. He will risk everything, fight anyone, for her and a future filled with hope and love.

The Ghost Ops Series

Book 1: Heart of Danger

Book 2: I Dream of Danger

Author’s Note: BREAKING DANGER is the thrilling conclusion to the Ghost Ops trilogy. Each book can be read as a standalone.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Michel’s Review

Breaking Danger is book three in the Ghost Ops series. It is the continuing story of three soldiers that are considered traitors to their country. This book can be read as a stand alone or in series order.

Lisa Marie Rice has maintained an excellent standard with this series and this book. She has created an intense world where the reader is kept on the edge of their seats. The action is intense. She has created a sizzling hot romance and in each book the featured character finds their own little piece of heaven.

Jon Ryan, the best strategist and tracker in the group is responsible for bringing Sophie Daniels, a virologists, into the fold at the Haven.

Sophie Daniels worked at Arka Pharmacauticals. All the scientists from Arka are being captured. Most were able to flee but Sophie was not that lucky. Sophie has managed to steal the vaccine that cured the plague virus that was created by Dr. Lee in Arka’s Lab.

The virus was intended to create super soldiers but turned into something horrific. Instead of super soldiers there are Zombie like creatures that are super strong, fast, lacking in motor control, and mindless. Each infected person can spread this onto others.

When Jon finally attains Sophie they are forced to hide out for days. During this time they begin to get know each other and find that they are both attracted to one another. Their attraction grows into a hot, sexy, and meaningful relationship. They will have to survive the nightmare first. They are the ones that hold the cure for the virus and are the only hope for the human race.

This book is intense. It will keep the reader on the edge of their seats.

The characters are a force within themselves, put them together and they are unstoppable. The charismatic characters, the well excuted plot, dynamic dialogue, romantic scenes, and chilling suspense will keep the reader hooked until the very last word.

Author Bio:

Lisa Marie Rice is eternally 30 years old and will never age. She is tall and willowy and beautiful. Men drop at her feet like ripe pears. She has won every major book prize in the world. She is a black belt with advanced degrees in archaeology, nuclear physics, and Tibetan literature. She is a concert pianist. Did I mention her Nobel Prize? Of course, Lisa Marie Rice is a virtual woman and exists only at the keyboard when writing erotic romance. She disappears when the monitor winks off.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Review: Liam’s Journey by Heidi McLaughlin

Posted on 07/15/2014 by shellbellereads

Liam’s Journey

by Heidi McLaughlin

Synopsis

Books 1 & 4 of The Beaumont Series – Together for a limited time only

The journey for Liam begins at eighteen. Having, what many would consider the brightest future; he gives it all up for the unknown.

The bright lights beckon, but hearts break. Liam’s successful, smart and lonely. When a loss hits too close, he puts everything behind him to return home.

To go back, means to remember.

To remember means to hurt again.

Lives changed when Liam Westbury left Beaumont and they’ll change again once he returns as Liam Page.

Books 1 & 4 of The Beaumont Series – Together for a limited time only

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Michel’s Reviews

This is a big treat! A must buy book! Heidi McLaughlin has combined book 1 and book 4 of the Beaumont series into one volume. For a limited time reader’s can now get the whole story of Liam’s Journey.

This incredible volume contains two books that show the journey of a boy growing into being a man. What it took for this troubled young man to evolve into a man that can be admired for his devotion, integrity, and dedication will capture your heart. It is an honest look at the realities that life thrust upon us whether they are good or bad. It shows that every life situation can shape us into a better person. It’s okay to make mistakes. It’s okay to search for happiness. It’s okay to fall down. It’s okay to succeed. It’s okay to love with all your heart. All these life lessons have made Liam Westbury, the all star boy, become the sensational superstar Liam Page.

His dreams started out on the football field and lead to the stage. His choices changed his dreams. His journey through these turbulent years has lead him home to Beaumont and to the one dream he never let go of. Now is his time to grab that dream and run with it.

Liam Westbury / Liam Page is one of my all time favorite book boyfriends. Now you can get your hot little hands all over both these Liam’s. His story will not disappoint.

Liam’s Journey can be read as a stand alone novels. Although the books are the beginning and ending of the Beaumont Series, they are just one character showing two sides of the coin. The other books in the series feature the other members of the 4225 West band and friends from the Beaumont community.

Here are my 5 Star Reviews for each book individually:

Forever My Girl ***** 5 Stars

I absolutely loved this book. Not only was it an emotional love story that captures your heart. You ache for both the hero and herione and all that they have lost . This book is written with a very healthy dose of how relationships really work in real life. I liked that the author wrote in first person and alternated chapters with his point of view and her point of view. The author delivered each POV and had the book progress into the story rather than being repetitive. I highly recommend this book. I can’t wait for the next book in the series.

Liam Page will steal your heart!

Finding My Way *****5 Stars

Finding My Way by Heidi McLaughlin is the fourth book in the Beaumont series. The Beaumont series is based on the members of the band, 4225 West. Finding My Way takes this series full circle. It goes back to the very beginning and gives the reader insight on the evolution of Liam Westbury, to superstar Liam Page. The reader gets to witness the painful journey this young man had to travel to become the man he is today. We fell in love with him in the first book, Forever My Girl. We forgave him for his mistakes and transgressions because he proved that he was a man of strong character and true heart. We sympathized with Josie Preston and felt Liam had to prove his love and commitment to her. While we knew the reasons behind Liam’s betrayals, it was hard to forgive him until he proved his worth as a man. Then the reader got to experience a very mature adult relationship between Josie and Liam. We absolutely loved this couple and their story. We have loved how this couple has thrived and grown throughout the Beaumont series.

Finding My Way takes us back to the beginning. This book takes the reader back to the high school days and the transgressions that Liam Westbury commits. This book is the “missing years” of Liam’s life outside of Beaumont. It is the ten year journey that leads him home to Beaumont (Forever My Girl) and to the woman he was meant to spend his life with.

This book has had mixed reactions from readers. While some absolutely loved the unfolding of Liam’s secrets and new life, others felt he was selfish, uncaring and totally self absorbed. They had invested themselves with Josie’s side of the story, her hurts, her sense of betrayal, and sympathy of the life she had to live during those ten years of separation. My reaction was with the first group, I absolutely loved Liam’s journey. I loved getting inside his head and understanding his reactions and actions. I even resented Josie for not being there for Liam when he needed her most. I felt like she was the selfish one, that she was absorbed in her own dreams, and dismissed the very thing that soothed Liam’s soul. Every one of the people that were closest to Liam wanted something from him, set expectations that were beyond what any teenager should handle, and did not give him the emotional support he so desperately needed. He was a good kid. He tried his hardest to make everyone happy. He gave everything that was expected of him and then some. In return, he was betrayed, ignored, and left with a sense of hopelessness. Liam had to rebel to become a whole man with a sense of self worth. His journey is heartbreaking, uplifting, and remarkable. Through it all he retains all the endearing qualities that made the golden boy he once was a man worth all the gold in the world. He is a giving man that is dedicated to the ones he loves. He gives the gift of friendship without any strings attached. But most of all, he knows who he is and what he wants in life.

Heidi McLaughlin showcased her gifted writing skills. Not only did she deliver an emotionally charged story that captured the reader’s heart, she displayed an honest look into her character’s psyche. She made the teenage Liam just as convincing as the adult Liam. Her portrayal was in true character at each stage of life. The reader did not feel like a teenage boy was thinking like an adult man. They did not feel like a young twenty something man was looking at life like a man ready to settle down and start a family. She honestly portrayed how a person matures in life.

This book can be read as the first book in the Beaumont series or it can be read as the last book in the series. It is superbly written and a great addition to this series.

Beaumont Series Reading Order

Forever My Girl

My Unexpected Forever

Finding My Forever

Finding My Way

Author Bio:

Heidi is a NYT, USA Today, Kobo, Digital Book World, Amazon and Barnes & Noble Bestselling author.

Originally from the Pacific Northwest, she now lives in picturesque Vermont, with her husband and two daughters. Also renting space in their home is an over-hyper Beagle/Jack Russell and two Parakeets.

During the day Heidi is behind a desk talking about Land Use. At night, she’s writing one of the many stories planned for release or sitting court-side during either daughter’s basketball games.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Serial Review: The Love Trials Vol. 1 – Vol. 3

Posted on 07/13/2014 by shellbellereads

Synopsis for Part One

New hot, sexy and suspenseful serial from the New York Times Bestselling Author of The Ex Games and The Private Club. The Love Trials is a three part contemporary romance serial.

She thought she knew what was between the sheets, but she really had no idea.

I thought I knew what I was getting into when I received the invitation from the lovers academy. I thought I was going for love. I had no idea that the lovers academy cared more about what happened between the sheets than it did a meeting of the minds and souls.

This isn’t your regular love story. My Prince Charming didn’t ride up on a white horse and come and save me. In fact, he warned me to stay away from him. Of course, I didn’t listen. Why would I? There’s something so exciting about going after someone you shouldn’t have.

However, I never thought it would be like this. I’ve never felt so conflicted in my life. No one told me that being bad could feel so good. No one told me that when the big bad wolf tells you to run away and hide, you should listen.

If I’d only known just how far from charming my prince was, I would have ignored the invitation.

Readers of this serial should be prepared for a wild sexy ride. They should also be above 18 years of age due to sexy situations.

* 4 Stars for the complete Love Trials Serial*

Michel’s Review

The Love Trials serial by J. S. Cooper is an addition to the ongoing story introduced in the The Ex Games serial and The Private Club serial. The dynamic characters, their stories of deceit, lust, and wrong doing will have the readers intrigued. The Love Trials is the story of Nancy and Jaxon. We met Nancy in The Private Club and her place in the series surprised us all. Now we get to see what Nancy does now that she has found her place in the intriguing world J. S. Cooper has created.

*4 Stars * for The Love Trial Serial

Individual Ratings for each volume below:

The Love Trials Vol. 1

4.5 Stars…..

Another great serial romance by J. S. Cooper

Were you addicted to The Ex Games serial and The Private Club serial by J. S. Cooper? I know I was. I just couldn’t get enough. As both series ended there were characters that I wanted to know more about. I wanted them to have their own story. I was curious on how their lives would turn out. One of those characters was Nancy.

Nancy turned out to be a complete surprise in The Private Club series. Her connections with the owners of the Private Club were much deeper than the readers anticipated. She became a major player in this ongoing saga. The Love Trials is her story.

Nancy has been in love with an older man for years. He was her teacher and mentor. She truly thought they were to be destined soulmates. Once she became an adult and a legal age, she decided she was going to go after her dream. After a lengthy research, she finds her former teacher is now teaching at the Lovers’ Academy. It is not your ordinary school. It is a school that teaches women the art of seduction and the power of sex.

Nancy enrolled and was accepted into the Lovers’ Academy. She sees this as her opportunity to reunite with her beloved Hunter. She knows that once she gets there, they will be able to pursue a relationship without the boundaries of society, family, and friends. They can be together now that she is legal. They can have the forever love they were destined to have.

Things didn’t turn out exactly as Nancy planned once she arrived at the Lovers’ Academy. Hunter didn’t regconize or acknowledge her. She was assigned a different teacher. The actual curriculum of the Lovers’ Academy is quite different from her expectations. It is not lectures, demonstrations, and book reading. It is hands on. She will learn the art of love making with her new instructor in a very personal manner. Is she up to it? If it will land her Hunter, she will go the mile.

Her instructor has her heart racing, her desire escalating, and her complete attention. He is strong, sexy, knowledgeable, and mysterious. He has the right kind of curriculum to have Nancy striving to be a star student.

As the lessons begin, Nancy will discover secrets about herself she never thought she had. She will start falling into her instructor, Jaxon’s web, and will find that Hunter may not be what she thought he was. In fact, it appears Hunter has an agenda of his own that might not be good for Nancy. We won’t know until The Love Trials Vol. 2.

What is Hunter’s agenda?

Why has Jaxon chosen Nancy as his student?

Are there secrets lying beneath the surface at the Lovers’ Academy?

What is Nancy’s next assignment?

J. S. Cooper has delivered another sensual, intriguing, suspenseful new serial. It is the spin off of The Ex Games and The Private Club. It is starting out just as thrilling. I can’t wait to read more.

I would give this story a five star rating for the plot, characters, story flow, and pacing. Five stars for entertainment value, I could not put it down. The only thing that kept The Love Trials Vol. 1 from being a five star rating is that there were several editing errors in the 48 pages. As a reader and reviewer I expect better editing.

Buy Links: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

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

The Love Trials Vol. 2

5 Stars!

The Love Trials 2 by J. S. Cooper picks up right were the Love Trials 1 left off. Nancy confronts Jaxon about the disturbing conversation she has overheard. His explanations leave her reeling with all kinds of confusion. Despite her inner instincts to cut her losses and run far away from the Love Academy she choses to stick it out. After all there is a mystery to solve, facts to be found, feelings to be explored, choices over which man to chose, and a profound need for self preservation.

The longer she remains at the Lovers Academy, more questions begin to build a fragile reason to hang on to her original motivations for attending the Lovers Academy in the first place. She has learned that Jaxon and his father have a vendetta against her newly found father, Brandon. The more she learns, the more she questions her newfound relationship with her father and her place in the family unit. She also begins to question her feelings about Hunter. The more she learns, the more twisted it becomes. Hunter is not all she thought he was. He also has an agenda.

Jaxon, on the other hand is not playing his hand completely. On one hand he seems to care about her as a person and as a student. On the hand, he also has a vendetta that could very well destroy her and her family. The only thing that makes him different from Hunter and his father is his honesty about his involvement. She knows he is involved but not the whole story. She has to make a choice on whether to trust him or cut her losses.

Just as things start surfacing, new questions lead the story down another path. It ends with a startling cliffhanger that has your jaw on the floor! I cannot wait for The Love Trials 3.

J. S. Cooper has mastered the art of writing a serial romance. She creates intrigue, mystery, and hair raising scenes. She adds red hot sexual tension loaded with passion. She creates a line up of dynamic characters and brings characters from the former Ex Games & Private Club into play. It is like reading an ongoing saga that features different characters in each serial but blends the former serial with a perfect balance in their world.

I must say the editing and flow of the story was perfection.

Buy Links: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

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

The Love Trials Vol. 3

* 3 Stars *

The Love Trials has reached it’s conclusion. Secrets have been revealed, the final hand has been played, a murder has been solved, players have switched sides, and road to vengeance has been traveled.

Everything that happened in the final episode of this serial surprised me. At times I felt like the story was rushed and some scenes didn’t have enough “meat” to make them work in the story. At other times I found scenes that had too much “meat” , that made it feel like the words were just fillers. The ending was good and the characters found their HEA, however again it was too rushed.

The overall series was good but I do think the final episode was the weakest contribution. I felt the story was rushed, a times the character motivations did not seem realistic, and I found quite a few editing errors. The Love Trials serial is a good contribution to the overall story that has played out in The Ex Games serial and Private Club serial. I would recommend all three serial’s because J. S. Cooper has created some fascinating characters in a world that is beyond our imagination.

Buy Link: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

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

Author Bio:

J. S. Cooper is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author. She is a true romantic that is in love with love. The J. S. stands for Jaimie Suzi. She just thought J. S. sounded cooler! J. S. was born in London, England and moved to the States at age 17. She studied history in college and then went to law school and then decided to follow her writing dreams. J. S. writes ‘New Adult’ contemporary romance books because that is what she also loves to read.

Available Books: The Last Boyfriend, The Last Husband, Before Lucky, The Other Side of Love, Zane & Lucky’s First Christmas, Crazy Beautiful Love, Scarred, and Healed.

Upcoming books: Finding My Prince Charming, If Only Once (The Martelli Brothers), Everlasting Sin, The Rebel Next Door and Hot Prof.

Please join J. S. Cooper on her facebook page if you enjoy her books here: https://www.facebook.com/J.S.Cooperauthor. If you wish to get in contact, please email her at Jscooperauthor@gmail.com.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Instagram ~ Goodreads

Review: Rhett by J. S. Cooper

Posted on 07/10/2014 by shellbellereads

Synopsis

New Standalone novel from New York Times Bestselling Author J. S. Cooper

I’m Rhett.

I’m cocky because I can be. I’ve got it all: the looks, the money, the endurance. I’m the guy that every girl wants to be with, yet none of them have ever been able to tie me down.

I don’t do love. I don’t do relationships. And I sure as hell will never do marriage.

I’m all about the fast life and everything that entails. There’s a different woman in my bed every week. My friends are jealous of me. My enemies envy me. Everyone wants my life. And everything in my life is absolutely perfect. At least, that’s what everyone thinks.

Everything changed the day, Clementine O’Hara told me she was moving away. She’s my best friend. She was my first kiss in grade school. We share everything with each other. She’s the only girl I haven’t tried anything with because she’s off-limits to me and my friends. Only, suddenly I’m seeing her in a different light.

I’m Rhett and I don’t let anything get me down. Then one night changed everything and everything I thought I knew was called into question. All of a sudden, being Rhett didn’t mean so much anymore. All of a sudden my friendship with Clementine was in jeopardy and I wasn’t sure what I was going to do.

Buy Links:

Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Michel’s Review

Rhett by J. S. Cooper is another fun read. I thoroughly enjoyed the book. I loved watching a player brought to his knees and losing his heart. Those are the best ones to fall.

Rhett has always had everything he ever wanted. He’s good looking, smart, rich, a ladies man, and a best friend that has been by his side no matter what. That best friend is Clemmie. He knows he can depend on her. He knows she will always be there. But will she?

Clemmie has been Rhett’s best friend through thick and thin. She understands him and his conceited ways. She has always been there for him. But now, she realizes that she has always put him first and her needs lasts. Now she is going to put herself first. She is going to put herself out there, start dating, and start moving towards her future life. A new life that might not have room for Rhett.

Once Clemmie starts dating other men and looking into moving, Rhett sees her in a new light. He suddenly sees a woman instead of a girl. A woman that he wants more than anything.

Rhett always gets what he wants. This time he may not. This time it isn’t going to be easy. This time Rhett is going to have to give himself. Can he do it?

Read the book! It is a fun romp that will not disappoint.

Author’s Bio:

Available Books: The Last Boyfriend, The Last Husband, Before Lucky, The Other Side of Love, Zane & Lucky’s First Christmas, Crazy Beautiful Love, Scarred, and Healed.

Upcoming books: Finding My Prince Charming, If Only Once (The Martelli Brothers), Everlasting Sin, The Rebel Next Door and Hot Prof.

Please join J. S. Cooper on her facebook page if you enjoy her books here: https://www.facebook.com/J.S.Cooperauthor. If you wish to get in contact, please email her at Jscooperauthor@gmail.com.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Instagram ~ Goodreads

Breaking To Breathe by Lisa N. Paul ~ Review Blog Tour Giveaway

Posted on 07/10/2014 by shellbellereads

SYNOPSIS:

Two people so bent they can
no longer stand tall

With his sexy looks, his seductive dirty talk, and his resident bad boy
reputation,

Kyle Marx was the thrill-ride every woman wants to experience…at least
once.

And once is all he’d ever offer.

Suffocating in his own personal hell, Kyle thought sex, booze, and
drugs could numb the pain of his past

Until an angel challenged him
to fight…to feel

After living through a childhood that left her vulnerable and exposed,
Cate Lockton mastered the art of blending in instead of standing out. She
locked herself away to prevent more damage to her already fractured heart. She never imagined a man with a past more broken than her own would
crash into her world and force her to let him in.

Their lives first collided on a stormy night. But Danny’s on Main is
where they finally connected. A neighborhood bar where strangers become
friends, friends become family and some become lovers, and where the strong
learn that while you can bend to exist, sometimes you’ve gotta

Break… so you can Breathe.

EXCERPT:

“Danny, you don’t just hug random women without introducing
yourself first. My Lord, it just comes off creepy.” The strawberry blonde woman
stretched up on her tip-toes and pecked his cheek before extending her hand to
Cate and Elliot. “Hi, I’m Julie Marcus; the hugger is my husband, Danny.”

AUTHOR BIO:

Lisa N. Paul is a wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend,
reader, writer, blogger, and self-proclaimed comedian—just not always in that
order. Ever since she was a little girl, she has devoured books. Falling
in love with the Sweet Valley High series at a young age drew Lisa to series
books and inspired her to write her own. Thursday Nights is
the first book in her Charistown series.

When not writing, Lisa can be found eating french fries and Godiva raspberry
truffles, or hanging out with her husband and two sons.

AUTHOR LINKS:

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Michel’s Review

Breaking To Breathe is book three in the Charistown series. It can be read as a stand alone novel or in series order. I highly recommend reading this series in order because the reader gets an overall feel of the dynamics of Danny’s on Main, the bar on which the series is built upon. You get to meet the charismatic characters, their group dynamics, their individual quirks and strengths, the comradery that brings them together as a family, and lastly their individual stories that endear them to the readers hearts. Each book is very well written and keeps the reader’s attention to the very last word.

Breaking To Breathe is Kyle Marx’s story. Kyle is the guy we have grown to dislike in the previous two books. He is a player, he has no respect for women, he is arrogant, cocky, at times a drunk, and general ass. He is on a path to self destruction and has reached the point of rock bottem. But like most people, he has many hidden layers. What people see on the surface is a façade to hide the inner turmoil this man has endured all of his life. He has reached the point where he ready to die just to find peace from his inner demons.

One stormy night, one horrific accident, and the face of an angel will lead Kyle on a new path. First he will have to confront his demons, cleanse his soul, and let go of the past. Only his angel can understand his pain and torment. Only his angel can give him the peace he so desperately needs.

Cate has been hiding from life. She would rather be invisible than be recognized for the strong, compassionate woman she is. She has had a horrific past that has scarred her soul. Her pain was exploited in the past. She only wants to move forward in life, keep her emotions to herself, and exist in an uncomplicated world. She does not need or require any attention to have this peace. If she wants interaction with other people, mainly the opposite sex, she is going to do it on her terms and by her rules. One night only and no repeats. But one night, one accident, one man, and one place, Danny’s on Main will change everything she ever thought she wanted or needed.

One stormy night, one horrific accident, two broken people will come together and find that there is peace. They will find that love really does exist. Their story is explosive.

Breaking To Breathe is a highly emotional book. At times it will be hard to breathe when you see what Kyle and Cate have experienced in life. You will admire their strength of survival. You will rejoice when these two beautifully broken people finally find that there are rainbows in life.

Lisa N. Paul has wrote another five star book. I highly recommend Breaking To Breathe and the Charistown series. This series will keep you captivated !

Giveaway

Rafflecopter Link: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/3bb62e159/

The Charistown Series

This sexy, steamy contemporary romance will leave you yearning for more. Which is perfect since this is the first book in the Charistown series.* Even though this is a series, each book can be read as a stand alone novel.*l
Pain can leave even the strongest of people weak and hollow. But when fate brings two weak souls together, will the love they find mend the fragments that are barely holding them together, or will the weight of their past finally cause them to crumble? Max DeLucca has spent seven years trying to forget the betrayal of his past. He lives his life from day to day never looking forward and never looking back. The walls around his heart keep anyone from getting too close and prevent him from feeling too much…until he meets her. Her entire life, Janie Silver searched for the kind of love that wouldn’t leave her broken and more importantly, wouldn’t leave her behind. She longs for a love that can heal the wounds of her past and give her the future she knows she deserves. She thought she was looking for something that just didn’t exist…until she meets him. Danny’s on Main is where their story begins. A neighborhood bar where strangers become friends, friends become family and some … become lovers … it all started on Thursday Nights*Warning – this book is intended for mature audiences only. Descriptive sexual situations are included in this story.

Amazon / Barnes and Noble

The Darker the Storm, The Deeper the Pain…
Love knows no bounds when two people are destined to be together.
One fights to maintain the distance; while the other battles to close the gap.
The Brighter the Light at the End…
Will they move forward together or finally close the last remaining door to their past?
It’s time for Ryan and Ashley to decide. But once that decision is made,
there will be no going back…
Always Reach for the Light…
A Neighborhood bar where old wounds heal, friends become family, and some…become lovers…
Danny’s on Main is where their story continues… Where they all shelter each other during the …
Storm Front**This book is intended for mature audiences.**

Amazaon / Barnes and Noble

BLAST HOSTED BY:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Unbeloved by Madeline Sheehan- Undeniable Series #4~ Review

Posted on 07/09/2014 by shellbellereads

Synopsis

Warning: This is not a conventional or predictable love story. It involves one woman and two men bound by a love so destructive it spans two decades, pitting brother against brother, and shattering the lives of those touched by it.

Dorothy Kelley is a born romantic, searching for her prince. Instead she finds herself pregnant at fifteen, and a in a loveless marriage by the tender age of eighteen. Then hope comes riding into her life on a motorcycle and within weeks, Jason “Jase” Brady, a member of the Hell’s Horsemen motorcycle club, sweeps Dorothy off her feet.

But nothing is ever simple for Dorothy. Jase is married with children. And as Dorothy patiently waits for Jase to give her the happily-ever-after she’s been dreaming about, James “Hawk” Young, a member of the Hell’s Horsemen with secrets of his own, sees an opening into Dorothy’s life and takes it. What follows is a long and painful journey of self-discovery and forgiveness, as Dorothy comes to realize that home was exactly where she’d left it, and the love she’d forever craved had always been within her reach.

This is the story of Dorothy, Jase, and Hawk.

We are all born pure; it is our journey that burdens us and leads us astray. Our mistakes that beat us down and cover us in guilt and shame, burying us a little more with each passing hardship. It is up to us to dig ourselves out, to come to terms with our faults, to embrace not only our imperfections but those of the ones we love, and to once again find the path we strayed from.

Praise for the UnDeniable Series:

“I have never been so beautifully uncomfortable than when reading the Undeniable Series. I didn’t just feel while reading them. Madeline Sheehan set every single emotion within me on fire with a blowtorch.”

—S.L. Jennings, New York Times and USA Today best-selling author

“In an untouchable league of her own, Madeline Sheehan has created a riveting tale of ugly, forbidden love turned beautifully right. Heartbreak, grief, and finding strength and healing through family is the foundation of this emotional saga. A single breathing entity working in tandem against the cruelty that is their world, every character in the Undeniable Series will become a piece of you, embedding themselves into your thoughts for years to come.”

—Gail McHugh, New York Times best-selling author

Buy Links

Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Michel’s Review

The Undeniable series by Madeline Sheehan is one of my all time favorite series. Her portrayal of what being a member of The Hells Horsemen is brutally honest. These men play hard, love fiercely, and protect what is theirs. It is not a matter of black and white, right or wrong, or good and bad. It is real life, the life they chose to make for themselves. They honor that life, honor their brothers, and give their all to the club. Their women are just as tough and charismatic. They have chosen men that are not easy to love and will not always put them first. But they know beneath all of that hardness lies a heart that is dedicated to them and their children.

Madeline Sheehan writes a story that portrays what real life is about. This series is full of honest emotions, coping with choices, moving forward in life no matter what direction it is heading. She is not afraid of time, she allows her characters to age in a realistic manner, she allows sickness and death to touch their world, she shows the hardships of raising families, and she shows the heartaches that come along with life whether it be through mates or friends. On the other hand she shows the beauty life has to give us all. Finding the one person you can give your heart to, raising your children to become strong adults, sharing lifetime friendships, and living life to the fullest. I have to commend Madeline Sheehan. She has created a world in which every reader can relate to. It is not the world of the Hells Horsemen, it is the world where “real” life and very “real” characters.

Unbeloved is not a stand alone novel. The events leading up to this book have played out in every book prior to this book. It would short change the reader to start this series with this book. Relationships have been formed and some have been irrevocably damaged. Friendships have been cemented. Families have been formed. The path the three main characters is on has reached the final crossroads that will take their lives in new directions. It is a path that they need to chose wisely and with care. It is not only their lives that have been affected by their prior choices.

Dorothy Kelley was not always a club whore. She was not always a homewrecker and mistress. She was once a young woman with Cinderella dreams. Her choices and hunger for love have lead her life down a road she would never imagined taking. She loved a married man for years. The cost of that love was high. She lost her self respect, raised her only child in an environment that caused bitterness within that childs heart, and almost paid for her mistakes with her life. One man watched her destroy herself and loved her regardless. He was willing to wait for her to see all that he could give her, his heart. The other man loved her with passion, but not enough to give her an honest life and respect. Because of his selfishness she is now separated from the only family she has known, the Hells Horsemen. The family she walked away from after she almost lost her life and her child.

Dorothy has been summoned home. The club is in danger and Deuce wants all the members home so that he can protect his family. One man will bring her home. One man will give her his heart. One man will face the truth. One man will sacrifice for his family, the other will let go for his family. But at the end of it all, Dorothy will find out the true meaning of love. She will find self respect and be respected by others. She will find that she is valued by all those who love her. She will become the woman she was always meant to be.

Madeline Sheehan wrote an emotional story of one woman’s journey in life. She did a spectacular job. She made Dorothy the kind of woman we all want to be.

Author Bio

USA Today Bestseller, Madeline Sheehan, is the author of the Holy Trinity Trilogy and the Undeniable Series. Homegrown in Buffalo, New York, Madeline resides there with her husband and son.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter

Sharing You by Molly McAdams~Book #3 Sharing You Series~Review

Posted on 07/09/2014 by shellbellereads

Synopsis

Sensational New York Times bestselling author Molly McAdams breaks bounds with this emotionally wrenching, heartbreakingly real New Adult novel of love, passion, guilt, honor, and infidelity.

Twenty-three year old Kamryn Cunningham has left behind a privileged, turbulent past for the anonymity of small-town life. Busy with her new bakery, she isn’t interested in hook-ups or fix-ups. Then she meets the very sexy, very married Brody. Though she can’t deny the pull between them, Kamryn isn’t a cheater and she’s not good at sharing.

Twenty-six year old Brody Saco may be married, but he isn’t happy. When his girlfriend got pregnant six years ago, he did the right thing . . . and he’s been paying for it ever since. Now, his marriage is nothing but a trap filled with hate, manipulation, and blame—the remnants of a tragedy that happened five years earlier. While he’s never broken his vows, he can’t stop the flood of emotion that meeting Kamryn unlocks.

Brought together by an intense heat that is impossible to resist, Brody and Kamryn share stolen moments and nights that end too soon. But is their love strong enough to bear the weight of Kamryn’s guilt? And is Brody strong enough to confront the pain of the past and finally break free of his conniving wife?

Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Michel’s Review

Sharing You by Molly McAdams is part of the Sharing You series. This series is based off the friendship three young men formed in the Army. This is the story of their lives after they have finished serving. Each book is a novella featuring a different couple. Each book can be read as a stand alone.

Sharing You is going to evoke many different reactions from readers. It is a controversial book that may offend some people. With that said, I want to emphasize that this book is very well written. The story flows beautifully. The characters are very real and capture the reader’s attention. The reader can feel their emotions, good and bad. Their heartache is very real and makes the reader ache right along with them. Molly McAdams knows how to write a highly emotional story that will bring tears to your eyes. Although the subject matter was one of my “ick” factors I found I could not put this book down. After reading the first two novella’s in this series I wanted to see where Brody Saco’s life was heading. I understood how he had to step out of his value system to grasp the one chance of happiness. He tried to do everything right, follow the rules, follow his conscience, but sometimes it is the heart that must be followed.

Brody has finally found his piece of happiness in life. This happiness may destroy him and Kamryn in the process.

I can’t say any more without giving away too many spoilers. I will say that although this book is not your perfect romance and touches on some very hard lines, I think most reader’s will understand where the author was coming from and why she had to allow these characters to experience this life. I know we all know that sometimes there are “exceptions” to the rules. I commend Molly McAdams for being brave enough to write this story.

Author’s Bio

Molly McAdams grew up in California but now lives in the oh-so-amazing state of Texas with her husband and furry daughter. Her hobbies include hiking, snowboarding, traveling and long walks on the beach, which roughly translates to being a homebody with her hubby and dishing out movie quotes. When she’s not at work, she can be found hiding out in her bedroom surrounded by her laptop, cell, Kindle and fighting over the TV remote. She has a weakness for crude-humored movies, fried pickles and loves curling up in a fluffy comforter during a thunderstorm…or under one in a bathtub if there are tornados. That way she can pretend they aren’t really happening.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter

Saucy Southern Readers

professional, honest, and timely book reviews

Category Archives: Michel

Review: When Day Breaks by Maya Banks – KGI Series – Book 9

Review: Proving Paul’s Promise by Tammy Falkner- Book 5 Reed Brothers Series

Review: Against The Cage by Sidney Halston

Review: Breaking Danger by Lisa Marie Rice – Ghost Ops Book 3

Review: Liam’s Journey by Heidi McLaughlin

Serial Review: The Love Trials Vol. 1 – Vol. 3

Review: Rhett by J. S. Cooper

Breaking To Breathe by Lisa N. Paul ~ Review Blog Tour Giveaway

Unbeloved by Madeline Sheehan- Undeniable Series #4~ Review

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