Release Blitz + 6 Star Review + 2015 Favorite + Giveaway: Chasing River by K. A. Tucker – Burying Water Series – Book 3

Posted on 07/07/2015 by shellbellereads

We are absolutely thrilled to bring you the Review Tour for K.A. Tucker’s CHASING RAIN! CHASING RIVER is a Suspenseful Romance novel, and the third novel in K.A. Tucker’s Burying Water Series, published by Atria books, an Imprint of Simon & Schuster. CHASING RIVER is set to be released July 7, 2015! If you haven’t already, be sure to grab BURYING WATER and BECOMING RAIN, the first two books in this thrilling series!!

CHASING RIVER US Links:

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CHASING RIVER UK Links:

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About CHASING RIVER:

Armed with two years’ worth of savings and the need to experience life outside the bubble of her Oregon small town, twenty-five-year old Amber Welles is prepared for anything. Except dying in Dublin. Had it not been for the bravery of a stranger, she might have. But he takes off before she has the chance to offer her gratitude.

Twenty-four-year-old River Delaney is rattled. No one was supposed to get hurt. But then that American tourist showed up. He couldn’t let her die, but he also couldn’t risk being identified at the scene—so, he ran. Back to his everyday life of running his family’s pub. Only, everyday life is getting more and more complicated, thanks to his brother, Aengus, and his criminal associations. When the American girl tracks River down, he quickly realizes how much he likes her, how wrong she is for him. And how dangerous it is to have her around. Chasing her off would be the smart move.

Maybe it’s because he saved her life, or maybe it’s because he’s completely different from everything she’s left behind, but Amber finds herself chasing after River Delaney. Amber isn’t the kind of girl to chase after anyone.

And River isn’t the kind of guy she’d want to catch.

Robin’s Review

Author K.A. Tucker’s writing portfolio includes series written in the young adult paranormal fantasy, new adult contemporary romance, and new adult romantic suspense genres. Although I have never read her Causal Enchantment series, I have thoroughly enjoyed reading each of the novels of the Ten Tiny Breathes and the Burying Water series. Much of the Burying Water series is based in a small town named Sisters, Oregon. Chasing River is different because the majority of the story takes place in Dublin, Ireland. If you have read any of the Burying Water series, you may remember Amber Welles is the daughter of retired sheriff Gabe Welles and the twin sister of Jesse Welles. Chasing River is Amber’s story.

On a normal day, twenty-four-year-old River Delaney would be getting up to open his family pub. But today, River is following his brother Aengus into St. Stephen’s Green. It’s only 7:30 in the morning, and Aengus is acting sketchy, carrying a black leather satchel close to his body. When he reaches a field, Aengus kneels down, unzips the satchel and lays a pipe bomb in the grass. When River sees what his brother is doing, he attempts to talk him out it, but Aengus warns him to immediately get out of there. That’s when River notices a woman jogging straight for the bomb.

Amber is on a leave of absence from her work as a nurse. She plans to visit fifteen different countries over a four-month period. After spending three and half weeks in Canada, Amber is now in Dublin, Ireland. She’s running late for a day tour, so she decides to take a shortcut through a field in St. Stephen’s Green. She doesn’t realize it, but she’s jogging towards a pipe bomb that is just about to detonate. Before she has time to process what is happening, a man plows into Amber, sending her flying through the air. He lands on top of her just before an explosion rips through the field. When the dust settles, the man checks to see if she was injured. After he sees that she is okay, he runs off. Amber realizes two things: he was protecting her from the explosion, and she didn’t get to thank him.

Besides the sweet romance between the main characters, what I love most about Chasing River is the history I was able to learn about Ireland. Tucker begins her novel with a three-page author’s note. She addresses the political and religious divisions between Ireland and England, which eventually led to Ireland’s attempt to break away from England. More important to this story is what we learn about the Irish Republican Army (IRA), and the role it has played throughout Irish history. The Delaney family has a long history of being involved with the Irish Republican Army, so pay close attention to the author’s note because what you learn will be very relevant to this story. This Irish history lesson lends to the suspense element in this story, making Chasing River one of the best romantic suspense novels that I have read in recent months.

We also learn more Irish history through River and his family. I really liked how the author shows us how much each member of the Delaney family values his or her Irish heritage. At one point in the novel, Amber sits in a pub and listens to a real Irish storyteller. We are able to enjoy the story as Amber listens to what is being said. I thought this was very creative feature of Chasing River. K.A. Tucker quickly captured my attention with this story. The unique setting of Dublin, Ireland feels very authentic when you combine it with the dialect, expressions and history Tucker includes in her writing.

I was able to discern real character growth in both protagonists, but especially in Amber. Before she leaves on her trip, Amber is encouraged by a friend to step outside of her comfort zone, and I feel there are several times in this story where she does just that. Amber takes a good look at her life, and she realizes that she wants to make the best decisions for her, not based on what others expect of her. I truly enjoyed River and Amber as a couple. Long distance relationships are never easy, and I would love to read more about their relationship in a future novel of the Burying Water series. So far, they are my favorite couple written by Tucker. I also consider 6-star Chasing River to be my favorite novel written by K.A. Tucker, and I am adding it to my list of 2015 favorites!

Michel’s Review

Chasing River is the third book in the Burying Water series by K.A. Tucker. It is my favorite book in the series so far.

K.A. Tucker created an interesting plot and unique set of characters that is original, informative, emotional, and entertaining. This book is not a fast paced high octane story like the other books in this series. It is more of a look into the reality of life in modern day Ireland. She painted a vivid picture of daily life, family dynamics, and the political arena in which most Irish families experience. Living in North America has kept readers removed from the plights of the Irish people. Most of us don’t have an understanding of their politics, their laws, and their convictions. We assume they have the same kind of liberties and values that we have. It is an arrogant assumption and ignorant way of thinking. This book opens the readers eyes and gives them a clear insight while at the same time delivering a beautiful romance.

Amber Welles has lived an enchanted sheltered life in a small town environment. She was the queen of her high school , made good grades, stayed out of trouble, excelled in college, and began making a successful career as a nurse. Her parents gave her an easy life. Her mother was a successful surgeon that taught her to love medicine. Her father was the town sheriff that taught her to live an honest and trouble free life. Unlike her twin brother, she has never been in trouble, never been exposed to people outside her social circle, and most certainly never skirted the law. She has always dreamed of traveling abroad and exploring the world. She has been saving for this dream and plans to take a year off to follow her dreams. After a harsh break up she decides to pursue her dream sooner. She may not have enough money to spend a year abroad but she does have enough to have several months of travel and adventure. Just before she embarks on her trip she makes a bucket list for her adventures.

Her first day in Ireland is beyond the adventure she was dreaming of. She is nearly blown up in an explosion in the park. If the sexy stranger with green eyes hadn’t saved her she would of been seriously injured or dead. Now she wants to find this Irish stranger and thank him for saving her life. When she does find him she gets more than she bargained for. She will find that her world was much smaller than she thought it was. She will find that not every thing is black and white. She will find there are many gray areas that are neither right or wrong. She will open herself up to new people and accept their beliefs. She will discover that old casual acquaintances can become the dearest of friends. Most of all she will find that once in a lifetime love with a man that doesn’t fit into her neat and orderly life. Amber Welles is falling into River. It is up to her whether she wants to sink or swim in the murky waters we call life.

River Delaney is the middle son in your typical Irish family. His family has owned a pub for over 200 years. Their family history is rich with stories of love, passion, heartbreak, struggle, and strife. Their convictions run deep. Their connections to the IRA and RIRA are part of their heritage. It is a dangerous life. His choices have molded him into the man he is today. His family history has made him target for the law as well as RIRA. Falling for an American girl that stirs his soul is not a good idea. The heart dictates what it wants. Their relationship may sink or swim. He may drown from the heartache or sail into a beautiful relationship. Either way, both he and Amber are treading in dangerous waters.

I could not put this book down. Amber and River’s story was beautiful. Both had convictions from their upbringings that should of kept them apart. Both found a love that was pure and beautiful. Both had to make choices that their families had a hard time grasping. In the end they found the once in a lifetime love that was worth sacrificing for.

K. A. Tucker did a thorough job with her research in Irish history. The reader will walk away with a better understanding of Irish heritage that is not leprechauns, rainbows, pots of gold, and blarney stones.

I loved how she incorporated some of the characters from the previous books and gave them a stronger role in the series. Gabe Welles in the kind of father that every girl should have. Ivy Lee is the kind of friend that Amber didn’t know she needed. She proved that beneath the hostility and icy veneer lies a true and loyal soul.

Chasing River can be read as a stand alone or in series order.

I highly recommend Chasing River by K. A. Tucker. It is fantastic.

And don’t forget BURYING WATER and BECOMING RAIN, the first two books in this thrilling series…

BURYING WATER

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BECOMING RAIN

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About K.A. Tucker:

Born in small-town Ontario, K.A. Tucker published her first book at the age of six with the help of her elementary school librarian and a box of crayons. She currently resides in a quaint town outside of Toronto with her husband, two beautiful girls, and an exhausting brood of four-legged creatures.

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Release Blitz + 5 Star Review: Toxic by Kim Karr

Posted on 07/07/2015 by shellbellereads

Toxic

By Kim Karr

Release Date: July 7, 2015

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Synopsis

New York Times bestselling author Kim Karr turns up the heat in a smoking hot, emotionally compelling romance that takes you into the world of Manhattan’s elite. Meet Jeremy McQueen, a sexy, intense, brooding entrepreneur who goes after what he wants, and Phoebe St. Claire, a socialite-turned-CEO who’s been drifting through life searching for something she thought she’d never find again–the right man to share her future.

Phoebe St. Claire has devoted herself to saving her family’s hotel empire–but her best efforts have not been good enough. With her whole world in turmoil, the tenacious go-getter turns to the once love of her life. Far from innocent, Jeremy McQueen was the guy from the wrong side of the tracks who her parents would never have approved of. Their years apart have only made the sexy bad boy more irresistible than ever–and their reunion is explosive.

When she asks Jeremy to help her salvage her family business, he agrees immediately, with only one condition–he wants her in his bed.

But soon surprising circumstances leave Phoebe reeling. Was this fairy tale romance just too good to be true? Will Jeremy’s secrets pull them apart all over again?

THIS IS A STANDALONE SECOND-CHANCE ROMANCE WITH NO CLIFFHANGER ENDING.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Excerpt

Phoebe St. Claire

Feeling a bit drunk and overwhelmed with so many and so few choices at the same time, I needed some time alone and snuck off toward the beach path.

I ran toward the ocean and twirled in the sand as the wind blew around me. Once I started to feel dizzy from twirling, I still wasn’t ready to head back to the party, so I took the path that would lead me to the large Olympic-sized pool. I tugged my sandals off with thoughts of putting my feet in the water to rinse the mud and sand away. As I approached the pool, I noticed how it glowed like it was lit by small pale fires. Lost in the enchantment of it, the sudden movement beneath the surface startled me.

A fair-haired boy emerged from the water. He pulled himself up and out so quickly that I was momentarily stunned. And then when he drank me in with his eyes, I shuddered.

I couldn’t help it, the way he looked at me just made me shiver. No one had ever looked at me like that before and I found myself gazing back into his intense eyes.

He was utterly beautiful. His bare chest was sculpted but not overly bulky like Danny or Jamie. They worked out every day pumping obnoxious amounts of iron to look the way they did. In contrast, the boy standing before me had a swimmer’s build.

He stood stoic and a cautious look crossed his face. He was long and lean in a pair of bright green neon swim trunks.

Right away I could tell he didn’t care what anyone thought about him.

I loved the idea of that.

So I smiled at him.

He shook his head and his hair fell into his eyes.

I wanted to reach out and push it away. It wasn’t long, but it wasn’t short. It was perfect.

“Hey,” he said, grabbing a towel off the ground.

It didn’t belong to the club. It was small, beige, and a bit worn—not the large hunter-green fluffy ones monogrammed in white I’d always gotten when I used to come here to swim as a kid.

“Hey,” I said back, swinging my sandals nervously.

He grabbed a pair of jeans that lay next to where the towel had been and walked right by me.

I turned to watch him as he strode into one of the cabanas and dropped his trunks. I froze and squeezed my eyes shut, thinking I shouldn’t be watching him but then opened them quickly when I couldn’t resist maybe catching a glimpse.

“Didn’t your parents ever tell you it isn’t polite to stare?” His voice was low and sexy, and it tugged me out of my own head.

I put my hands on my hips. “Didn’t your parents ever teach you not to undress in mixed company?”

He pulled his jeans on and laughed. “My mother might have mentioned that once or twice but I’ve never been good at following the rules.”

And it didn’t escape my notice that he didn’t put any underwear on first.

Hot. Totally and completely hot.

I didn’t see anything I shouldn’t have seen, it was too dark, but something inside me electrified at the thought of seeing him naked and I stepped closer. That’s when I noticed the scuffed-up black work boots on one of the lounges with a T-shirt thrown next to them.

I raised a brow. “Is this your changing room?”

He laughed again but this time added a smile and put his hands up. “Okay you caught me. I better get out of here before anyone else does.”

He was adorable and charming and my heart skipped a beat or two.

Then I stepped even closer and entered the cabana entrance, effectively blocking his way. “Why? You’re not doing anything wrong.”

He shrugged but he didn’t try to move around me. “I usually swim in the ocean but when the water is too rough, like tonight, I come here.”

I bit my lip in contemplation before speaking. “Does it really matter if you get caught?”

He crossed his arms over his bare chest. “Let’s just say it’s not just the swimming. It’s more that I’ve been caught doing a few too many things that I shouldn’t have been doing in the past.”

A bad boy.

The thought made my pulse thunder. “So you’re not a member at this club?”

He cleared his throat and shifted from foot to foot. “No,” he laughed but his laugh was anything but genuine. “Are you?”

I hesitated as I considered my answer. “No, I was just walking the beach and wanted to rinse my feet. I’m Phoebe,” I said extending my hand. Technically, I wasn’t lying. I wasn’t a member, my parents were. I hadn’t even been here in years. And I was out for a walk.

Amusement danced in his blue eyes. “Jeremy,” he said back.

When I chewed on my lower lip, I noticed how his eyes focused on it.

Mine focused on the entirety of his mouth—his strong, firm jaw, his sensuous lips, and his tongue that had snuck out to lick his lips.

That mouth.

It was almost too much.

Almost.

Michel’s Review

I have to admit I was not looking forward to this book. After reading the synopsis I was filled with dread because I am so tired of millionaire romances. The typical theme of the bad boy from the wrong side of the tracks becoming a ruthless millionaire to ruin the spoiled socialite heiress that broke his heart when they were teens… yeah … read that story over and over…different names…different author. But then I thought… Toxic is written by Kim Karr…Kim Karr can write a book like no other. She has never disappointed and her books are fresh, exciting, and take on a life of their own. My thoughts were still a bit skeptical but willing to take on Kim Karr’s millionaire experience. I can honestly say that I am so glad that I did. This book is not like any other book I have read and kept me glued to the pages. This story, when stripped bare, is something that can happen to any couple if they let their insecurities take over their relationship. It was a beautiful relationship that quickly turned toxic because of personal insecurities rather than agendas that drove the characters apart.

Rather than recap the entire story or give away spoilers I am going to list the things I loved about the book and it’s characters.

1. I liked both of the leading characters.

Phoebe St. Claire was born a privileged socialite and heiress to a hotel empire. Even though she was raised with a silver spoon she never came across as entitled. She worked hard, fought for her independence, and stayed loyal to those she loved. She always showed respect to others whether they were from her social class or the working class. When the odds were against her she dug deeper and worked harder to succeed. She never sacrificed her beliefs or integrity to get what she wanted or needed. She was determined to prove her worth by earning it. She was a confident woman in many aspects but also vulnerable in many other aspects. Her problem was trusting in herself.

Jeremy McQueen was more than your typical bad boy sexy millionaire. At first it appears that he was a resentful young man that hated the wealthy. He had issues but rose above them. His drive to become a successful businessman was because of his personal ambitions and not because of his resentments. He truly wanted to build an empire based off of his own merits. When he achieved his success he didn’t shove it in the face of those he resented in his youth. Sure he had some bad feelings towards Phoebe St. Claire for breaking his young heart but it was not his motivating factor. He was smart enough to look beyond their past and see the people they were in the present. He showed Phoebe the respect she deserved.

2. The secondary characters were fantastic. Their support to the story made this book come to life. Phoebe’s life long friends may have been just as privileged as she was but they were not snobs either. They were real people with their own unique strengths and flaws. They were supportive and loyal to Phoebe. Her family was very interesting and surprising. Jeremy’s support system was just as surprising. The main villain in this story was unpredictable. Although there was a villain in the story, he was not the driving force in the plot. He was more of a catalyst to what was beneath the surface.

3. The plot was unique. The delivery was subtle until it was explosive. Once the reader is at the point of explosion it is a complete surprise. The book starts with one impression of the characters world and quickly moves into the high powered world of business and finance. The twists and turns as well as Phoebe and Jeremy’s adult relationship keep the readers glued to the pages. When the climax and true grit of the story finally reveals itself it is quite a surprise. You reach an OMG moment realizing that it was there all along, in black and white, in your face but you were so wrapped up in everything else going on that you missed it.

4. The romance. The relationship between Phoebe and Jeremy was truly beautiful. There was never a question of these two people loving each other. They were magic together when they stepped outside of their own skins. The problem was what they kept buried within themselves that led their relationship to being toxic.

5. Emotional rewarding reading experience. This book did not feel like I was reading a truck full of angst and despair. It did not revolve around scorching sex ( which was there in the hottest form) that kept the characters together even though there were problems. It tapped into the human psyche in it’s purest form.

6. It was interesting how she tied her previous stand alone book, The 27 Club, into this story even though it had nothing to do with it. It may open doors for future books.

In the end I can honestly say that Toxic is the best book that Kim Karr has written.

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I live in Florida with my husband and four kids. I’ve always had a love for reading books and writing. Being an English major in college, I wanted to teach at the college level but that was not to be. I went on to receive an MBA and became a project manager until quitting to raise my family. I currently work part-time with my husband and full-time embracing one of my biggest passions—writing.

Stalk Her: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

5 Star Review + 2015 Favorite : Maybe Another Life by Taylor Jenkins Reid

Posted on 07/07/2015 by shellbellereads

Maybe In Another Life

By Taylor Jenkins Reid

Release Date : July 7, 2015

Synopsis

At the age of twenty-nine, Hannah Martin still has no idea what she wants to do with her life. She has lived in six different cities and held countless meaningless jobs since graduating college, but on the heels of a disastrous breakup, she has finally returned to her hometown of Los Angeles. To celebrate her first night back, her best friend, Gabby, takes Hannah out to a bar—where she meets up with her high school boyfriend, Ethan.

It’s just past midnight when Gabby asks Hannah if she’s ready to go. Ethan quickly offers to give her a ride later if she wants to stay.

Hannah hesitates.

What happens if she leaves with Gabby?

What happens if she leaves with Ethan?

In concurrent storylines, Hannah lives out the effects of each decision. Quickly, these parallel universes develop into surprisingly different stories with far-reaching consequences for Hannah and the people around her, raising questions like: Is anything meant to be? How much in our life is determined by chance? And perhaps most compellingly: Is there such a thing as a soul mate?

Hannah believes there is. And, in both worlds, she believes she’s found him.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Robin’s Review

I have a few questions for you to consider. Do you believe our future is directed by destiny? Does fate drive the steering wheel of our lives? Have you ever considered the consequences of your own decisions? Where would you be if you had chosen to attend another college? What would your life be like if you had chosen a different career? Would you be married to the same person? Taylor Jenkins Reid demonstrates how one simple decision can impact our future in her newest novel titled Maybe in Another Life.

Hannah Martin has never found a place she could call home. It hasn’t been a conscious decision for her to move around so much, but Hannah gets a feeling she’s not where she belongs. Hannah is now twenty-nine-years-old. She has no career to speak of. She’s floated from place to place, working jobs as a waitress. She’s been in several dead-end relationships. She has no idea what she wants to do with her life. It’s been over a decade since Hannah left Los Angeles to go to college, and now she is returning to the city where she was raised to start over.

Her closest friend, Gabby, plans an evening out with several of their old friends from high school. This includes Ethan Hanover, who was Hannah’s boyfriend during high school. Hannah and Ethan have stayed in touch over the years, but she has always felt the two of them have unfinished business. As the evening comes to an end, Hannah realizes she has a decision to make. If she doesn’t want to rush things with Ethan, she can take a conservative approach with him and go home with Gabby. Or she can choose to stay out late with Ethan and see where the evening takes the two of them. With this decision, the novel splits into side by side scenarios, so we are able to see the consequences each choice.

The first few chapters of the novel are full of background information about our protagonist. We learn about her family. Friends. Old boyfriends. We see how Hannah has come to be where she is in life, and what we learn in these chapters is relevant to the plot of each scenario. When you reach the point of Hannah’s decision, the story really takes off! Reid alternates between the two stories by chapter. I found myself looking forward to each new chapter, wondering what would happen next for Hannah.

It was hard for me to put this book down while I was reading. When life seemed to get in the way, I couldn’t wait to pick it back up. I connected with many of the characters in this novel. I love the deep friendship between Hannah and Gabby. I believe soulmates can be friends. It almost feels like they are soulmates, and I wonder if anyone else will sense this too? I felt so many different emotions while I was reading. I was sad. I had tears. I laughed. I felt nervous. And when I finished reading Maybe in Another Life, I had a smile on my face.

Both scenarios are truly enjoyable, but the outcomes are very different. We are able to see how one choice can change so much in Hannah’s life. Is this really destiny or fate? Or is this the consequences of a choice? This is the premise of the entire novel. Maybe in Another Life is my first novel written by author Taylor Jenkins Reid. Every so often, I choose to read a novel in the women’s fiction genre, and I am extremely happy that I chose to read this 5-star novel! I’m looking forward to reading more novels written by Taylor Jenkins Reid in the future. Maybe in Another Life is added to my list of 2015 favorites!

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Author Bio

Taylor Jenkins Reid is an author and essayist from Acton, Massachusetts. Her first novel, Forever, Interrupted, was named one of the “11 Debuts We Love” by Kirkus Reviews. She lives in Los Angeles with her husband, Alex, and their dog, Rabbit.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Happy Release + Review : The Strongest Steel by Scarlett Cole – Second Circle Tattoos Series – Book 1

Posted on 07/07/2015 by shellbellereads

The Strongest Steel

Second Circle Tattoos Series – Book 1

By Scarlett Cole

Synopsis

Harper Connelly never expected to find herself outside of a tattoo parlor at one in the morning. The scars that decorate her back are just one more reminder of things she’d rather forget, the past she wants to leave far behind her, but before she can move on she needs him.

Trent Andrews has his own reasons for specializing in inking over scars. And there’s no way in hell he’s going to turn Harper away. Not when a swirling mix of tenderness and desire slams into him every time her sees her. Being with Harper is like going 10 rounds in the ring-exhilarating, powerful, and dangerous. She stirs feeling in him he thought were long gone… if he can only get past her carefully constructed defenses.

Running was the only thing that saved Harper last time, but each session at Second Circle Tattoos brings her closer and closer to Trent. His lingering touches seduce her, making her believe in a life without fear, where she can be happy, whole, in love. But when cryptic messages start appearing on Harper’s phone, strange deliveries arrive at her door, and Second Circle is vandalized, Harper is convinced that her ex-boyfriend has tracked her down, and worse, that he knows about Trent. She ran from her past once before, this time will she have the strength to fight back?

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Michel’s Review

Wow! What a great debut book for author Scarlett Cole. The Strongest Steel is an emotional story about healing, acceptance, fear, inner strength, friendship, and love.

Harper Connelly has been living in fear for the past four years. She fled her hometown and changed her name because of a horrific attack that left her brutalized. Not only has she been living with her physical scars , she is also weighed down by her emotional scars. She was forced to give up everything who she was and what defined her as a person. She has been looking over her shoulder for the past four years.

She fled to Miami to start a new life. She has lived a very quiet existence . She has very few friends and keeps her secrets close to her chest. She is working in a coffee shop rather than teaching. She has hidden herself well. Even though she has a new identity she is still fearful that her attacker, who is someone that was very close to her once, is going to find her.

When she gets up the courage to enter Second Circle Tattoos to have a consultation about covering her scars, it is a life changing moment for her. Not only will she find herself once again, she will find the kind of love that is the kind of love she deserves.

Trent Andrews, owner of Second Circle Tattoos, has never met a more courageous person than Harper Connelly. He is appalled by her scars but also sees them as a badge of courage. She is a survivor. He wants to give her a tattoo that will illuminate her strength and courage. Their lengthy sessions will lead to a beautiful relationship.

As Trent and Harper build a strong relationship their life begins to spiral out of control. Trent’s career is heading towards fame and fortune. Harper’s attacker is getting out on parole. Threatening text messages have Harper wanting to run. Trent wants her to let go of her fears and reclaim her life.

The Strongest Steel was a very moving and powerful story. I connected with the characters and loved their story.

The pacing in this book was a bit off. It started out strong but became a bit slow towards the middle of the story. The build up to the ending was suspenseful and frightening. When the climax arrived it was rushed and a bit uneventful. Overall the story was very good regardless of the pacing.

I am looking forward to future books in the Second Circle Tattoos series. Scarlett Cole has proven that she is an author that needs to be on my “to read ” list.

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Author Bio:

The tattoo across my right hip says it all really. A Life Less Ordinary. Inked by the amazingly talented Luke Wessman at the Wooster Street Social Club (a.k.a. New York Ink). Why is it important? Well, it sums up my view on life. That we should all aspire to live a life that is less boring, less predictable. Be bold, and do something amazing. I’ve made some crazy choices. I’ve been a car maker, a consultant, and even a senior executive at a large retailer running strategy. Born in England, spent time in the U.S. and Japan, before ending up in Canada were I met my own, personal hero – all six and a half feet of him. Both of us are scorpios! Yeah, I know! Should have checked the astrological signs earlier, but somehow it works for us. We have two amazing kids, who I either could never part with or could easily be convinced to sell on e-bay.

I’ve wanted to be a writer for a really long time. Check through my office cupboards or my computer and you’ll find half written stories and character descriptions everywhere. Last year, the stars aligned to give me an opportunity to write my first fully, edited book, The Strongest Steel and it has been a most incredible journey. It is Book One of the Second Circle Series set in Miami, Florida.

I am represented by Beth Phelan at The Bent Agency, NY.

Scarlett

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Release Blitz + Review + Giveaway: Taming Lily by Monica Murphy – The Fowler Sisters Trilogy – Book 3

Posted on 07/07/2015 by shellbellereads

Taming Lily

The Fowler Sisters – Book 3

By Monica Murphy

Release Date: July 7, 2015

Pre- Order: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / IBooks

Synopsis

Perfect for fans of Christina Lauren, Emma Chase, and Maya Banks, the anticipated finale in New York Times bestselling author Monica Murphy’s sexy contemporary romance series about three fiery and determined sisters with their own ideas about life and love.

I’m in trouble. Again. And instead of facing my problems head on, I’ve run away. Far away this time, and no one can catch me—not my two younger sisters, Violet and Rose, not my father, my grandmother, or that witch Pilar who wants to take control of my family’s cosmetics company. Now I’m in Hawaii, enjoying the sun and the sand and water, where nobody knows the hot mess known as Lily Fowler. And I’m loving every minute of it.

But someone is watching me. Following me. He’s gorgeous. And soon we’re talking, and against all my instincts, I reveal bits and pieces of myself to Max. It feels good, though I know he can’t be the man for me. These sudden feelings we share are way too complicated, too fraught, too intense.

Then everything explodes and I’m forced to return home. My intentions have always been true, but now everyone’s mad at me. I don’t know who to turn to anymore . . . except to Max. He’s who I want to trust. But I’m not so sure I should. Maybe it’s worth the risk—and what-ifs be damned. . . .
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Pre- Order: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / IBooks

Excerpt

“Looks like Maui agreed with you.” Violet greets me as I walk toward her, practically falling into her welcoming hug. I squeeze her back, closing my eyes for the briefest moment as I absorb her love and warmth, so incredibly thankful to be with her again.

“It’s been a long time since I’ve seen you in person,” I tell her before I withdraw, though I don’t let her go my hands still clasp her shoulders and she’s holding on to my arms.

“I know.” Violet’s smiling at me, looking gorgeous with all that dark hair falling down her back in luxurious waves, her dark eyes sparkling as bright as the giant diamond on her finger. I don’t know if I’ve ever seen Violet look so genuinely happy.

I could almost get choked up, having her here in front of me. I didn’t realize I missed my sister so much until now. “Skype just doesn’t cut it, you know,” I say, my voice rough as I clear my throat past the emotional bubble clogging it.

Violet rolls her eyes and smiles. “I totally agree. But guess what? You’re stuck with me now. No more going back to Lon- don for us except to visit.”

I’m so grateful for her warm acceptance of me that I can feel the tight knot in my chest slowly unravel. I was scared to death this morning as I prepared to come into Fleur. Seeing Daddy, Grandma, Rose, and Violet . . . and worst of all, that evil witch Pilar . . . I wasn’t looking forward to it, and that’s the understatement of the year.

I was petrified really, afraid of what any of them might say. I’d rather pretend the fact that I ran away to Maui to escape my problems—especially a problem that neither I nor Pilar wants made public knowledge, I’m sure—was swept under the rug.

I don’t even want to talk about Maui and what happened there. The man I met. The man who somehow, some way, double-crossed me. Stole from me . . .

I have my suspicions about why Max did what he did. Nothing confirmed yet, but come on. I had jewelry in my suitcase— expensive jewelry. Cash in my wallet and stashed away in my travel bag. Yet he took my laptop and that’s it. The fucker stole from me.

Why?
Could he be working for Pilar?
No. It couldn’t be possible, just some weird coincidence.

Maybe he didn’t steal from me. Maybe one of the hotel employees snagged my Mac. I hadn’t checked on it in days. For all I know, it could have been missing since the day I stashed it up on the shelf in my closet.

That’s the problem. I don’t know what happened, when it was stolen or why. I can suspect Max all I want. It makes sense in a way. He held me close until I fell asleep and when I woke up in the morning, groggy and hung over, he was gone. Disappeared like he’d never existed in the first place. He didn’t even leave a note. I searched for him everywhere. By the pool, in the lobby, down by the beach, in the hotel restaurants, but he wasn’t there.

I went to his hotel room only to find the door cracked open and the maids inside, cleaning. His stuff was gone. The maids let me know he’d checked out that morning.

He didn’t even bother saying goodbye.
It hurts that he didn’t believe me worthy of a goodbye. Worse, he lied to me. Said that we would see each other again and then ditched me. I don’t get it.

What did I do wrong? That last night, when we had sex, I gave him everything I thought he wanted. I wanted to please him, wanted to be the submissive woman, not only to make him happy, but because it made me feel…good. I liked handing over the control to Max so I could get lost in the pleasure. It aroused me, his controlling ways, the words he said, the demands he made on my body. I wanted more. I wanted all of him . . .

And he didn’t want me at all.

Michel’s Review

Taming Lily is the final book in the Fowler Trilogy. We have met both of her sisters and witnessed their strengths and weaknesses. Throughout the first two books Lily gives the readers a lot of negative impressions. She is the troubled sister out of the Fowler trio.

I was hoping that Lily was going to come out and show her true colors. I truly wanted her to shine and snub her nose at her overachieving sisters. It just didn’t happen. I do like Lily’s character because I am always one who embraces the underdog. I also appreciated her hacking skills.

In the beginning of the book we are introduced to Max, the private investigator hired by Pilar, to get Lily’s laptop. Max has been stalking Lily and followed her to Maui. Lily can sense that someone is watching her but does not have enough sense to take extreme precautions.

When she almost drowns Max is there to save her. One thing leads to another and they end up in the steamiest sexual relationships of this series. These two add a new definition to the term vacation fling. Once Max achieves his goal, stealing her laptop, he leaves her high and dry. What a douche.

Once Max realizes why Pilar wants the laptop he is ready to switch sides. He will have to prove that his new found loyalty is not just for Fowler Cosmetics but for Lily as well. He must show his intentions are pure and honest. He will work with the Fowler sisters to bring Pilar down.

Overall the book was so so. Monica Murphy wrapped this series up and satisfied the readers with the ending. I don’t think this series is one of her more popular series. There was just something off with the complete Fowler trilogy.

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The Fowler Sisters Series

Owning Violet

The Fowler Sisters Series- Book 1

By Monica Murphy

Synopsis

New York Times bestselling author Monica Murphy begins a sexy new contemporary romance series—perfect for fans of Christina Lauren and Emma Chase—that introduces three sisters born to wealth, raised to succeed, ready to love, destined to make waves.

I’ve moved through life doing what’s expected of me. I’m the middle daughter, the dutiful daughter. The one who braved a vicious attack and survived. The one who devoted herself to her family’s business empire. The one who met an ambitious man and fell in love. We were going to run Fleur Cosmetics together, Zachary and I.

Until he got a promotion and left me in the dust. Maybe it’s for the best, between his disloyalty and his wandering eye. But another man was waiting for me. Wanting me. He too has an overwhelming thirst for success, just like Zachary—perhaps even more so. He’s also ruthless. And mysterious. I know nothing about Ryder McKay beyond that he makes me feel things I’ve never felt before.

One stolen moment, a kiss, a touch . . . and I’m hooked. Ryder’s like a powerful drug, and I’m an addict who doesn’t want to be cured. He tells me his intentions aren’t pure, and I believe him. For once, I don’t care. I’m willing to risk everything just to be with him. Including my heart. My soul.

My everything.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Taming Lily

The Fowler Sisters – Book 3

By Monica Murphy

Release Date: July 7, 2015

Pre- Order: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / IBooks

Synopsis

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

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Giveaway

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Release Blitz : Manwhore + 1 by Katy Evans – Manwhore Series – Book 2

Posted on 07/07/2015 by shellbellereads

Manwhore + 1

Manwhore Series- Book 2

By Katy Evans

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Synopsis

The unexpected love story that began in MANWHORE continues heating up the pages in MANWHORE +1 by New York Times bestselling author Katy Evans…

Billionaire playboy? Check.

Ruthless businessman? Check.

Absolutely sinful? Check.

Malcolm Saint was an assignment. A story. A beautiful, difficult man I was supposed to uncover for a racy exposé.

I intended to reveal him, his secrets, his lifestyle–not let him reveal me. But my head was overtaken by my heart and suddenly nothing could stop me from falling. I fell for him, and I fell hard.

Malcolm Saint is absolute Sin, and I’ve become a hopeless Sinner.

Now that the assignment is over, Saint wants something from me–something unexpected–and I want this wicked playboy’s heart. But how can I prove to the man who trusts no one that I’m worthy of becoming his plus one?

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Excerpt

FOUR WEEKS

I’ve never been so hopeful as when I board the pristine glass elevator at the M4 corporate building. A handful of employees ride along with me, murmuring perfunctory greetings to each other and to me. I think my mouth must be on vacation because I can’t seem to force it to speak. But I smile in reply—my smile nervous, nervous but hopeful, definitely hopeful. My riding companions step out on their floors one by one until I’m alone, riding up to the executive floor on my own.

Toward him.

Toward the man I love.

My body is raging. My blood is pumping—my blood is storming—my thighs are shaking. My stomach feels filled with little earthquakes that just won’t quit, then they turn into a full-fledged roil when I hear the elevator ting at his floor.

Stepping out, I’m in corporate nirvana, surrounded by sleek chrome and pristine glass, marble and limestone floors. But I hardly have eyes for anything except the tall and imposing frosted glass doors at the far end of the room.

Framing those doors to each side is a pair of sleek designer desks, for a total of four.

Behind these desks are four women in identical black-and-white suits, sitting behind their gleaming dark-oak desks, working quietly behind their flat-screen computers.

One of them, the forty-year-old Catherine H. Ulysses—right hand of the man who owns every inch of this building—stops what she’s doing when she sees me. She arches her brow, then seems both tense and relieved as she lifts the receiver on her desk and murmurs my name into it.

Am. Not. Breathing.

But Catherine doesn’t miss a beat as she motions me toward the huge frosted doors—those intimidating doors—that lead into the lair of the most powerful man in Chicago.

The human being with the most powerful effect on me.

This is what I’ve been waiting for, for four weeks. This is what I wanted when I left a thousand messages on his phones and what I wanted when I wrote a thousand others that I left unsent. To see him.

For him to want to see me.

But as I force myself to step forward, I don’t even know if I’ll have the strength to stand before him and look him in the eye after what I did.

I’m wracked so hard with nervousness and anticipation and hope—yes hope, small but bright, even as I shake like a leaf.

Catherine holds the door open, and I struggle to hold my head high and walk into his office.

Two steps inside I hear the swoosh of the glass door shutting behind me and my systems halt at the familiar sight of the most beautiful office I’ve ever been in.

His office is all vast marble and chrome, twelve-foot ceilings, and endless floor-to-ceiling windows.

And there he is. The center of its axis. The center of my world.

He’s pacing by the window, speaking into a headset in a low, low voice—the kind he uses when he’s pissed. All I can make out are the words have to be dead to let her fall into his clutches …

He hangs up, and as if he feels me in the room, he turns his head. His eyes flare when he sees me. His green eyes.

His achingly familiar, beautiful green eyes.

He inhales, very slowly, his chest expanding, his hands curling a little at his sides as he looks at me.

I look back at him.

Malcolm Kyle Preston Logan Saint.

I just walked into the eye of the most powerful storm of my life. No. Not a storm. A hurricane.

Four weeks, I haven’t seen him. And he still looks exactly as I remember. Larger than life, and more irresistible than ever.

His striking face is perfectly shaven today, and his sensual lips look so achingly full I can almost feel them against mine. Six-feet-plus of perfectly controlled male power stand before me, in a perfect black suit and a killer tie. He’s the very devil in Armani; strong-boned, square-jawed, gleaming dark hair and those penetrating eyes.

He’s got the best eyes.

They twinkle mercilessly when he teases me, and when he doesn’t tease me, they’re mysterious and unreadable, assessing and intelligent, keeping me guessing about his thoughts.

But I had forgotten how cold those eyes used to be. Green arctic ice looks back at me now. Every fleck of ice in those eyes gleaming like diamond shards.

He clenches his jaw and tosses the headset aside.

He looks as approachable as a wall, his shoulders stretching his white shirt, which clings to his skin like a groupie. But I know he’s not a wall; I’ve never wanted to throw myself at a wall like this.

He’s walking towards me. Every step he takes makes my heart pound as he moves with that quiet and confident own-the-world stride of his.

He stops a few feet away and shoves his hands into his pants pockets; and he seems so big all of a sudden, and he smells so utterly good. I drop my eyes to his tie as the little candle of hope I walked in with starts to flicker with doubt.

The Manwhore Series

Manwhore

Manwhore Series – Book 1

By Katy Evans

Release Date: March 24, 2015

Synopsis

Is it possible to expose Chicago’s hottest player—without getting played?

This is the story I’ve been waiting for all my life, and its name is Malcolm Kyle Preston Logan Saint. Don’t be fooled by that last name though. There’s nothing holy about the man except the hell his parties raise. The hottest entrepreneur Chicago has ever known, he’s a man’s man with too much money to spend and too many women vying for his attention.

Mysterious. Privileged. Legendary. His entire life he’s been surrounded by the press as they dig for tidbits to see if his fairytale life is for real or all mirrors and social media lies. Since he hit the scene, his secrets have been his and his alone to keep. And that’s where I come in.

Assigned to investigate Saint and reveal his elusive personality, I’m determined to make him the story that will change my career.

But I never imagined he would change my life. Bit by bit, I start to wonder if I’m the one discovering him…or if he’s uncovering me.

What happens when the man they call Saint, makes you want to sin?

Buy : Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes / Google

Manwhore + 1

Manwhore Series- Book 2

By Katy Evans

Pre Order: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Synopsis

The unexpected love story that began in MANWHORE continues heating up the pages in MANWHORE +1 by New York Times bestselling author Katy Evans…

Billionaire playboy? Check.

Ruthless businessman? Check.

Absolutely sinful? Check.

Malcolm Saint was an assignment. A story. A beautiful, difficult man I was supposed to uncover for a racy exposé.

I intended to reveal him, his secrets, his lifestyle–not let him reveal me. But my head was overtaken by my heart and suddenly nothing could stop me from falling. I fell for him, and I fell hard.

Malcolm Saint is absolute Sin, and I’ve become a hopeless Sinner.

Pre Order: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

________________________________________________

About Katy Evans

Katy Evans grew up with books and book-boyfriends until she found a real sexy boyfriend to love. They married and are now hard at work on their own happily ever after. Katy loves her family and friends, and she also loves reading, walking, baking, and being consumed by her characters until she reaches “The End.” Which is, hopefully, only the beginning…

Katy Evans is the NYT and USA Today bestselling author of the Real series.

To find more about her, look her up on her website, Twitter, or Facebook, she’d also love to hear from you!

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Release Blitz + 5 Star Review + Giveaway: Fighting To Breathe by Aurora Rose Reynolds – Shooting Stars Series – Book 1

Posted on 07/06/2015 by shellbellereads

Fighting To Breath

Shooting Stars Series – Book 1

By Aurora Rose Reynolds

Synopsis:

Lea Lamb and Austin Wolf were young when they fell in love. They never imagined the future could hold anything other than together-forever.

When Lea’s father dies in a tragic fishing accident, she’s crushed under the weight of her grief and catches a glimpse of another type of future, one she knows she’s not strong enough to face.

Austin is angry. For the past fifteen years, he’s believed the woman he loved with every ounce of his soul left him without so much as a backwards glance.

When Lea unexpectedly returns to their hometown, all the years of heartache inside Austin bubbles to the surface and presents itself as blinding rage.

Faced with the truth about the past, a newly discovered secret, these former lovers will learn that if they want to have any chance at the future they’d given up on all those years ago, they will have to rescue one another from drowning in pain so debilitating it will leave them both fighting to breathe.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Excerpt

“CAN WE STOP by the liquor store on the way to dinner?” Mom asks from the passenger seat of my car.

“Should you be drinking?” I frown then turn onto the main road—well, really the only road in town.

“What’s it going to do, kill me?” she jokes, making me inhale a sharp breath. “Honey,” she says quietly, and I look at her briefly, wondering how the hell she can be so casual about this. “I’m dying. When it will happen, only the good Lord knows, but it is happening, and there is nothing you or I can do about it. I have made my peace with it, and I want you to do the same.” She reaches over to pat my thigh.

“Make peace with it?” I repeat, shaking my head in disbelief.

“Yes, make peace with it. If you think about it, I’m lucky. I know I’m going to die. I know that sooner rather than later God is going to come take me home, and when he does, I will be ready. I will have had a chance to say goodbye to the people I care about and right any wrongs I’ve caused. I’m lucky, honey.”

“What about me?” I wring my hands on the steering wheel, feeling my chest get tight as I fight back tears.

“I love you, honey. I loved you before you were even a sparkle in my eye, and I will always be with you. I know this isn’t easy for you. I know there are going to be a lot of tears shed, but we’re lucky, honey.”

I press my lips together to keep from saying something I might regret. I’m not lucky; in fact, I’m unlucky to the tenth power. How many people have I lost, how many people do I have to loose before it’s enough.

“Oh look! Sheryl!” She yells, pulling me from my thoughts as she reaches over, pressing the horn on my steering wheel while her other hand shoots across me so she can wave out my window. Looking to where she’s waving my heart begins to beat wildly

against my ribcage when I see not Sheryl, but Austin walking into one of the many bars that litter Main Street, only it’s not just Austin—it’s him and a woman with her arm wrapped around the back of his waist as he holds the door open for her.

Even from the distance separating us, my lungs compress at the beauty that is him. The years have been good to him. His hair is still shaggy, only now a little lighter; his face is tan and covered in a beard that makes his crystal blue eyes stand out even more. My eyes travel from his face to his torso, which is covered in a dark green thermal that shows off the muscles of his arms, chest, and tapered waist, then down to his denim-covered thighs. When my gaze sweeps back up, his eyes are on me, and I see them crinkle in confusion then realization that soon turns into anger.

“You missed the liquor store,” my mom complains as I speed up.

Michel’s Review

There are certain authors that each reader puts on their personal favorites list because they seem to touch the reader on a personal level. Whether it be the characters, the series, the writing style, or the entertainment value, the author finds a way into the reader’s heart. For me Aurora Rose Reynolds is one of those authors. I have thoroughly enjoyed every one of her books. Her unique writing style and larger than life characters always touch me. I instantly connect with the characters, become personally involved with their lives, and devour their stories. I always finish an Aurora Rose Reynolds book with a big smile and a great sense of the warm & fuzzies.

Fighting To Breath is the first book in her new Shooting Stars series. This series is based around a small fishing town in Alaska. The small town dynamics and unique characters come to life and jump off the pages. They are ordinary people dedicated to their families and their community.

Lea and Austin were childhood friends and high school sweethearts. They had planned the perfect life together. He was going to join the family fishing business. She was going to be by his side as his wife and partner. Two weeks before graduation and one fatal accident changes both of their futures. Lea’s father is killed in a fishing accident. Lea does not want that kind of future any longer. Rather than marry Austin, she fleas with the vow to never return to Cordova. But life has a way of disrupting the best laid plans.

Fifteen years later and one bad marriage under her belt, Lea is forced to return home to Cordova. Her mother is terminally ill. She is returning home to spend time with her mother and make peace with the past. Where she will go from there is a mystery. She is no longer the girl she once was. She no longer has starry eyed dreams, visions of true love, and ideals of grandeur. She is fighting to breath. She is struggling with the reality of losing her mother, her only living family.

Austin Wolf never forgave Lea Lamb for leaving Cordova without an explanation. He couldn’t understand how she could turn her back on their love. He couldn’t understand how she could easily move on with her life without regret or remorse. He couldn’t believe that she would turn her back on his love. His love died the day she left town. Now she’s back and he hates her with a passion.

Fifteen years is a long time. Both Lea and Austin have changed drastically. Their lives have gone in very different directions. Cordova is a very small community. It is inevitable that their paths are going to cross. They are going to either make peace or make Lea’s time with her mother miserable. The choice is theirs. They may have changed but beneath it all they are still the same boy and girl that loved each other deeply.

Lea will have to face her fears and accept their realities. Austin will have to let go of his hatred and see the real Lea. Both have been hurt and destroyed by secrets that kept them apart for fifteen years. They have been fighting to breath all those years. Maybe now they can clear the air and finally take a deep breath and live the lives they were meant to live.

Fighting To Breath was the most emotional book Aurora Rose Reynolds has written. She touched upon so many emotions, fears, and insecurities that we all have. She showed how love, in any form, is our greatest gift. Ordinary people became extraordinary once they opened their hearts.

I absolutely loved this book and highly recommend it. I am looking forward to the next book in the Shooting Stars series.

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

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Giveaway

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Blog Tour + 5 Star Review + Giveaway: Beautiful Little Fool by K.K. Hendon

Posted on 07/03/2015 by shellbellereads

Beautiful Little Fool

By K.K. Hendin

Synopsis

Eighty seven billion dollars.

One dead New York business mogul.

No heirs.

No wives.

No relatives.

Eighty seven billion dollars.

Not hers yet.

He doesn’t deserve them.

He doesn’t know what to do with them.

She does.

She always has.

Eighty seven billion dollars.

He’s overwhelmed.

She’s prepared.

That will should have had her name.

Not his.

Eighty seven billion dollars.

His looks are a bonus.

Her looks are her weapon.

He’s fighting a losing battle against his heart.

He doesn’t know it yet.

Eighty seven billion dollars.

She gets everything she wants.

He’s what she wants.

Love has nothing to do with it.

To get to where you’re going, sometimes you need to step on a few people to get there.

Good thing her heels are sharp.

Buy: Amazon / ITunes / Kobo

Michel’s Review

Beautiful Little Fool by K.K. Hendon is one of those books that you are either going to like or hate. It is not a romance. It is more of a dark thriller or psychological thriller. When I finished the book I questioning what I had just read. I didn’t particularly enjoy the book but at the same time I could not put it down. It was like driving past a horrific accident and fighting the impulse to look. Rather than turning away you ended up staring with morbid curiosity. I had to ponder on this story for a few days before I could formulate my thoughts to write a spoiler free review.

Beautiful Little Fool is masterfully written. The author wove a very complex plot that was meticulously executed. The twists and turns will keep the reader guessing. The final revelations will be a complete shock. The characters are well developed and play their roles to perfection.

It was very hard to like the main characters in this book. Neither one had qualities that a reader could invest in. On the other hand, their story was fascinating.

Ellis Carrington, the hero was the unlucky guy that was born under the wrong star. Nothing could of changed his destiny. He went from being an ordinary guy to a ruthless billionaire within moments when he inherited 87 billion dollars from Harold Feingold. The power and money affected him and changed his character. He suddenly had money and power. The only thing left to conquer was Cedar Reynolds, the most desirable woman in New York City.

Cedar Reynolds is the Queen of New York City. She is rich, smart,powerful, and exceptionally beautiful. She was billionaire Harold Feingold’s protege. She should of inherited his empire and 87 billion dollars. Now she will do anything to acquire this money. Even sacrificing herself to Ellis Carrington. After all she is Cedar Reynolds, the woman everyone wants to be.

The story begins with Harold Feingold passing away and the mystery of who will be heir to his empire. No one knows what his last will and testament contain. The one thing for certain is his last wishes will be carried out to perfection. He is still the most powerful man even from the grave. His power has no limits.

This book shocked me. Even though it was not my cup of tea, it was a very good book. If you are looking for a romance, this is not the book for you. If you are looking for a book where there is redemption, this is not the book for you. If you are looking for a book to mess with your mind and twist your thoughts, read this book. This is a psychological thriller that was written with perfection.

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Author Bio:

KK Hendin’s real life ambition is to become a pink fluffy unicorn who dances with rainbows. But the schooling for that is all sorts of complicated, so until that gets sorted out, she’ll just write. Preferably things with angst and love. And things that require chocolate. She’s the author of the NA contemporaries HEART BREATHS and ONLY THE GOOD DIE YOUNG.

THIS MUCH SPACE is the second book in her new series, TWELVE BEATS IN A BAR.

KK spends way too much time on Twitter (where she can be found as @kkhendin), and rambles on occasion over at www.kkhendinwrites.blogspot.com.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Giveaway

Enter to win a NYC Alex and Ani bracelet, a signed copy of BEAUTIFUL LITTLE FOOL, and a NY Coffee Mug. US Only. 2 additional winners will receive a backlist title by KK Hendin.

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6 Star Review + 2015 Favorite + Giveaway: Wasted Lust by J. A. Huss

Posted on 07/02/2015 by shellbellereads

Wasted Lust

A 321 Spin Off Novel

By J. A. Huss

Release Date : June 25, 2015

Synopsis

A GIRL WITH REGRETS…

Sasha Cherlin died the night she let Nick Tate walk out on her for a life of crime. Her very essence was destroyed when they broke their promise to one another.

A MAN WITH REMORSE…

Nick Tate made his choice with her future in mind. He loved Sasha enough to know that leaving her behind was the only way to keep her safe.

A PATH TO REVENGE…

Special Agent Jax Barlow understands the bond of love and he plans to use it to get justice. Nick and Sasha will do anything to rewrite their past. He’s counting on that to bring them down.

Wasted Lust is a 321 spin-off, full-length, romantic suspense filled with lies, secrets, and the power of redemption by the New York Times bestselling author, JA Huss.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Excerpt

JAX

Nick is an idiot.

But I can’t fault him for it. If he had realized Sasha’s true worth—aside from killing and secret information—she’d still be his. She’d probably be dead because of it too.

My hatred for him dims a little. I will never like that man. Ever. But he left Sasha for a reason, I think. He left her because she was too good for him. She was pure and he was corrupt. I have a feeling that leaving her behind was as purposeful a move as any of the others he’s made throughout the years.

But why?

Does he love her? Is she the missing woman? She can’t be. Sasha freely admits she has not heard from or talked to him in a decade and I believe her.

So who is the woman who lured him back to the States six years ago? Sasha would’ve been just graduating high school. Her passport shows she was in New Zealand with her family that summer after graduation. So if he didn’t come to see her, then who?

This mystery has plagued me for years. Why does one of the FBI’s most wanted criminals leave Central America and come back to the US when he’s got a powerful position in a Honduran gang to protect him at home?

Why risk it?

For the job?

No. It can’t be that simple. Nothing about this guy is simple.

Did he lie to Sasha? Was he really her promise? It’s convenient that her father and his, the only two men who could substantiate the claim he made, are both dead.

I ponder this until we reach the airport. And by that time, Sasha is sleeping so deeply, she doesn’t even wake up when I pick her up in my arms and walk her up the stairs. I take her to the back of the plane and place her on the bed. “Sasha,” I whisper softly in her ear.

“Hmmm?” she moans back.

“Let’s take off your coat.”

“Mmmm.” She moves just enough for me to get her coat off, and then she turns over and falls back asleep with her hands bunching the pillow up to her face.

I stand there and smile down at her. Just smile. She’s so fucking adorable. And I’m starting to regret that rash decision to have sex with her in the car. You only get one first time. This one was pretty good as far as first times go. But still… I should’ve waited. Made it more romantic and less primal.

I lean down and kiss her on the head and then I walk out, leaving the lights off so she can get some rest. I go all the way up front to the business end of the plane and take a seat at the table.

“Drink, sir?” Essie asks.

“Sure. Brandy, if you’ve got it. You the only one on staff tonight?”

“No, the other girls are chatting in the galley. But if you want them, I can get them.”

“No, let them chat. I’ve got everything I need and I can use the quiet time.”

“Very good, sir,” she says, placing a snifter with two fingers of brandy in front of me on the table. “Just call if you need anything.”

I need a lot of things. But nothing Essie can help with. So I won’t be calling for her. I just drink my brandy and think about Sasha. I think about picking her up again and carrying her to the car that will be waiting for us when we land. I hope she doesn’t wake up.

Mostly because I want to carry her again. I loved that feeling. Her soft body against my hard one. But also because I’m not taking her home. And when she figures that out, she’s gonna be pissed.

_____________________________________________________

Just some general info about this book and how it relates to the rest of my books:
This is a story about Sasha Cherlin who appears in Slack, Come, Come Back, Coming For You, 321 (unnamed at the very end), and Meet Me In The Dark. It CAN be read as a standalone, but readers should be aware that this book is meant to be “The End” for Sasha and her life in the Company. Wasted Lust occurs ten years after Coming For You, two years after Meet Me In The Dark and AT THE SAME TIME as 321, so it is a parallel book, and although there are no real spoilers for 321 (I was very careful to avoid them) the plots converge in the middle of Wasted Lust. I would consider this to be a traditional romantic suspense and it is not dark.

Michel’s Review

Wow! Fans of the Rook and Ronin series, the Dirty, Dark and Deadly series, the Three, Two, One novel and Meet Me In The Dark novel have been waiting for this book. Wasted Lust is Sasha Cherlin-Aston’s book. This book is the grand finale of all these books combined. I say this loosely because of there are probably some surprises in store. Wasted Lust was SUPERB!

J. A. Huss is a brilliant writer. Her books are loaded with thrilling dark suspense, high octane action, and erotic romance. She meticulously delivers a complex plot that has unpredictable twists and turns. Her characters are very complex individuals with unique talents and personalities. Each character, whether they are the main character or secondary character, captures the reader’s full attention. Readers instantly become connected with the characters, immersed in their stories, and invested in the entire multiple series. She very carefully ties all of these characters together and brings their world to life. There are no six degrees of separation in this series, it is more like six degrees of connections.

We met Sasha Cherlin when she was thirteen years old in Slack: A Day In The Life of Ford Aston. She quickly became a prominent character in the ongoing books. In the Dirty, Dark, and Deadly series, Sasha became a prominent player. She was a Company child, a highly specialized child assassin. Her involvement with the major players in the Dirty,Dark, and Deadly series set the tone for Meet Me In The Dark.

After the Company was taken down, Sasha was not only left orphaned but also left without a real identity. She is no longer a lethal assassin, she is just a lost kid. Ford Aston adopted her and made her a part of his family. Her teen years were spent adjusting to a normal family life, becoming a carefree teenager, adjusting to society, and having a healthy existence. Although she has adjusted pretty well, she is still haunted by her former life in the Company. She has made great strides to leave her old life behind. She has become a strong young woman pursuing a PHD degree in Anthropology. Her life is on a positive path after ten years of struggling to become normal. She finally feels like she has put that life behind her until the past comes back to haunt her.

Coming back from a dig in South America she is waylaid by the FBI because of her connection to Nick Tate. Nick Tate was also a Company kid. He was her promise. He betrayed her ten years ago and left her behind. Now he’s back and according to the FBI he is hunting her. The FBI wants her to work with them. Agent Jax Barlow, from the Three,Two, One novel, wants her for himself. He sees the scared kid, the intelligent scholar, the dangerous assassin, and sensual woman that is wrapped in the package known as Sasha Aston. His desire for her goes beyond capturing the most wanted fugitive. He wants Sasha, the whole package with all the wrappings.

As the secrets begin to resurface and the Company’s tentacles begin to reach out, it is clear that Sasha’s life is in danger. She is no longer the ruthless assassin she once was. She has learned what fear truly means. She is also dealing with the old hurts that came from Nick betraying her. Jax vows to keep Sasha safe and alive. Sasha doesn’t think that Jax can accomplish this. He has no idea how ruthless and far reaching the Company is. He has no clue as to how dangerous Nick Tate is. He has no clue how dangerous Sasha Cherlin is.

As Jax and Sasha take on this high profile case they will learn that there is more at stake than their hearts. They will learn that they have to completely trust and depend on one another. Sasha will learn that she has wasted her lust.

This is the most emotional novel that J.A. Huss has written. The reader gets a true insight to Sasha Cherlin. It will tear at your heart strings and bring you to tears. This young woman will capture your heart.

Wasted Lust is full of surprises. The Company is once again pulling out their secret weapons and is determined to win. All of the characters from these series are in danger.

This book is not only emotional, it is very erotic. The sizzling chemistry between Sasha and Jax is scorching hot. Their passion has turned the pages into flames.

Although this is the grand finale I have a feeling that J.A. Huss is going to keep all of these characters alive. Their children are their legacy. They have stories too.

I highly recommend Wasted Lust. It should not be read as a stand alone novel. I would recommend reading all of the series. They are addicting. If you choose to read Wasted Lust as a stand alone novel, I can guarantee you will be going back and one clicking all of these books.

Reading Order:

Rook and Ronin Series

Tragic- Amazon

Manic – Amazon

Panic – Amazon

Slack – Amazon

Taut – Amazon

Bomb –Amazon

Guns – Amazon

Dirty, Dark, and Deadly Series

Come- Amazon

Come Back – Amazon

Coming For You – Amazon

Novels

Three, Two, One – Amazon

Meet Me In The Dark – Amazon

Wasted Lust – Amazon

_______________________________________________

Author Bio:

J. A. Huss likes to write new adult books that make you think and keep you guessing. Her favorite genre to read is space opera, but since practically no one reads those books, she writes new adult science fiction, paranormal romance, contemporary romance, urban fantasy, and books about Junco (who refuses to be saddled with a label).

She has an undergraduate degree in horses, (yes, really–Thank you, Colorado State University) and a master’s degree in forensic toxicology from the University of Florida. She used to have a job driving around Colorado doing pretty much nothing but shooting the breeze with farmers, but now she just writes, runs the New Adult Addiction and Clean Teen Reads Book Blogs, and runs an online science classroom for homeschoolers.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

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Review: Arrow’s Hell by Chantal Fernando – The Wind Dragons MC series – Book 2

Posted on 07/02/2015 by shellbellereads

Arrow’s Hell

Wind Dragons MC – Book 2

By Chantal Fernando

Release Date: June 16, 2015

Synopsis

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

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

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

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

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

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

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Michel’s Review

It’s no secret that I am a huge fan of Biker Romance. The Wind Dragons MC series by Chantal Fernando caught my attention when I read the first book, Dragon’s Lair. I quickly became immersed into the Wind Dragon’s MC and their world. This series is a bit different than most Biker Romance series. This series focuses on the members of the MC and their personal lives rather than the MC itself. It is not the hardcore, gritty, and violent representation of the club as we experience in most biker romance books. Yes the Wind Dragon’s are as tough and violent as most Biker series. The difference is that the author focuses on the individual and is not as graphic with their club business. The implications are perfectly clear and the reader gets the message that these guys are as tough as any other MC. The guys in the Wind Dragons MC are just as tough, ruthless, and powerful as any other biker. What we get to see is their other side. Not only does the reader get to experience the comradery and brotherhood, we get to know these guys personally. We get a strong sense of their background, their family, and their personal motivations. We get inside their heads and get a true view of their hearts. This series definitely captured my full attention.

We met Arrow in Dragon’s Lair and his story was just beginning. He ruthlessly murdered the president of their rival MC after that MC murdered the woman he loved. He paid for his crime and served his time in prison. At the end of the book he was being released from prison.

Arrow did not leave prison the same man he was before the attack that left Mary dead. He has no remorse for his crime. He still suffers from the guilt of Mary’s death. Although he is home with his brothers and family , he is still mentally isolated from his brothers. He is all in as far as the club is concerned but completely alone when it comes to his personal side. When he meets Rake’s younger sister Anna his outlook on life is about to change. This strong beautiful woman has what it takes to be an old lady. She has what it takes to unfreeze Arrow’s heart. First he will have to let go of his guilt and unhealthy dedication to Mary’s memory. He will have to open his eyes and see that he is still alive and that he needs to live his life. Anna is worth it.

There are still a multitude of problems and grievances with their rival MC. The issues are escalating and he is fearful that history is going to repeat itself once again. He doesn’t know if he is strong enough to survive it again.

As Arrow and Anna’s relationship takes on it’s wings, their love will soar. Anna has what it takes to be Arrow’s woman and a part of the Wind Dragons.

Arrow’s Hell kept me captivated. I am enjoying this series and very excited for the next book. I can’t wait for Tracker’s End. Read this series.

The Wind Dragons MC Series

Dragon’s Lair – Book 1

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

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

Or should I say, someone?

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

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

And I’m screwed.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Arrow’s Hell – Book 2

Release Date: June 16, 2015

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

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

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

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

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

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

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Tracker’s End – Book 3

Release Date: August 11, 2015

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

Tracker is everything I’ve ever wanted.

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

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

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

And Tracker is more than worth fighting for…

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

_____________________

Author Bio:

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

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

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

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

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter~ Goodreads

Saucy Southern Readers

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Review: Arrow’s Hell by Chantal Fernando – The Wind Dragons MC series – Book 2

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