Verum by Courtney Cole : 5 + Star Reviews and 2015 Favorite

Posted on 02/05/2015 by shellbellereads

Verum

The Nocte Trilogy – Book 2

By Courtney Cole

Synopsis

THE TRUTH SHALL SET YOU FREE.

My name is Calla Price and I’m drowning.

My new world is a dark, dark ocean and I’m being pulled under by secrets.

Can I trust anyone? I don’t know anymore.

The lies are spirals. They twist and turn, binding me with their thorns and serpentine tongues. And just when I think I have it figured out, everything is pulled out from under me.

I’m entangled in the darkness.

But the truth will set me free.

It’s just ahead of me, so close I can touch it. But even though it shines and glimmers, it has glistening fangs and I know it will shred me.

Are you scared?

I am.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Michel’s Review

Verum , the second book in the Nocte Trilogy, by Courtney Cole released this week. The moment it went live I had to download it and begin reading it. Nocte, the first book in this trilogy, left readers with so many questions. It left our mind boggled. It left the reader with residual emotions that could not be put into perspective. The desperate anxious feelings have been festering.

The teasers that were put out before the release of Verum had readers theorizing and speculating where the this book would lead. The more readers formulated theories, the more confused I became. Each theory I read seemed credible and valid. They made sense. But… here is the thing… one part or two parts of a story are not a whole. They are building blocks that lead to the eventual outcome. It is a journey that takes many twists and turns. It was meant to engage the readers imagination, stimulate their sense of reasoning, test their patience, and induce every emotional response intended.

Verum takes a completely different direction from the previous book. The setting has changed. The circumstances revolving around the characters have morphed into something more complex. The potential danger and conflict has changed. New characters are introduced. There is a deeper and darker sense of despair. The twists and turns throughout the story have the reader’s mind whirling. Although the overall sense of the story has changed, the original plot is still driving this story. Each time the reader feels they have formulated pieces of the puzzle, the story shakes it up and the pieces fall into a new pattern. In the end, there is a huge revelation that makes this story make sense. This huge revelation is a relief. It also raises more questions.

Verum consumed me. It was a reading experience that left me drained (in a good way). Courtney Cole did an outstanding job with this book. She took the reader hostage, tortured their senses, engaged their minds, and led them on a very gothic journey. She meticulously chose each word to convey this story. Each passage was methodically placed to keep the reader on their toes and searching for clues. The writing was brilliant!

I am look forward to the final book in the Nocte Trilogy. I think the outcome is going to shock the reader to the core. I’m ready!

Robin’s Review

If you have already read Nocte by Courtney Cole, you know exactly what to expect with Verum. Unforeseen plot twists. Clues. Phrases and pieces of sentences which will have you scratching your head. Sentences consisting of nonsensical gibberish. Dreams? Visions? Hallucinations? Or truth?

The Nocte Trilogy is a literary jigsaw puzzle. It’s an intriguing mystery that will challenge your intelligence. Courtney Cole wants you to be confused. And if you are? She has succeeded with what she set out to do. In my case, Cole was successful. After I had finished reading Verum, everything I previously understood about Calla and Dare had been altered. I honestly have no idea what to think! One thing is for certain, I am desperate for the final novel of this trilogy! I cannot wait until the puzzle pieces finally fit together! Lux is expected to be released later in 2015. Courtney Cole has most definitely earned 5 stars and a place on my list of 2015 favorites with Verum!

ABOUT COURTNEY COLE:

Courtney Cole is a novelist who would eat mythology for breakfast if she could. She has a degree in Business, but has since discovered that corporate America is not nearly as fun to live in as fictional worlds. She loves chocolate and roller coasters and hates waiting and rude people.

Courtney lives in quiet suburbia, close to Lake Michigan, with her real-life Prince Charming, her ornery kids (there is a small chance that they get their orneriness from their mother) and a small domestic zoo.

Website |Facebook | Twitter | Newsletter SignUp|Pinterest

ARC Review: Give It All by Cara McKenna – Desert Dogs Series – Book 2

Posted on 02/05/2015 by shellbellereads

Give It All

Desert Dogs Series – Book 2

By Cara McKenna

Synopsis

A hot new Desert Dogs novel from the author of Lay It Down

Keep your friends close—and your enemies closer….

Bar owner Raina Harper can’t say for sure what Duncan Welch is to her. With her small Nevada town under siege by a ruthless casino development and still reeling from a spate of murders, she knows that trusting the public face of the corporate invaders is risky to say the least. Though, damn, it’s one fine-looking face.…

Duncan may be a mercenary when it comes to getting the job done, but he’s no villain. In fact, the calculating fixer soon finds himself in the bad guys’ crosshairs, framed and facing professional ruin. To clear his name, he’ll need help from Raina and her roughneck motorcycle club, the Desert Dogs. Gaining their trust won’t be easy, and the molten sexual tension between Raina and Duncan only makes things more complicated—especially since Miah Church, Raina’s friend and ex-lover, would sooner strangle Duncan than shake his hand.

One thing’s certain, though: If they don’t deal with their incendiary attraction soon, the whole damn town might go up in flames.…

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Michel’s Review

Are you looking for a book that has strong characters, great dialogue, a plot that is well executed, snarky banter, and tons of action ? Look no more…. Give It All by Cara McKenna has all this and more. I could not put the book down.

Cara McKenna took a character that most readers hated in the first book and had him capturing the reader’s interest within the first part of the book. She made us fall in love with this jerk.

Raina Harper is a tough bar owner in a small town in Nevada that is being taken over by casino development. She’s tough as nails and can handle her clientele, The Desert Dogs MC. When the investigation of the missing bones takes on twists and turns, it brings Duncan Welsh into the spotlight. He is the kind of man Raina hates to love. He is quirky, has a touch of OCD, has anxiety issues, and is a powerful attorney. He is one hot mess. The exact kind of hot mess that Raina can’t help but want to clean up.

Duncan Welch, the rich corporate lawyer finds himself a target after he pushes the bad guys buttons. He has been framed and is facing ruin. The only way to clear his name is to engage the help of the motorcycle club, The Desert Dogs. He will have to earn their trust and earn their assistance. The sexual tension and mutual attraction between him and Raina only makes matters worse. Miah Church is Raina’s best friend, ex lover, and self proclaimed protector. He would rather kill Duncan than help him.

Raina and Duncan could not be more different than night and day. Opposites do attract. These two bring out the very best and worst in each other. They also give each other the support and strength the other needs. They grow as individuals and they grow as a couple.

As the story unfolds, the suspense builds, and the town is on an explosive path. Raina and Duncan’s passion is heating up more than the town’s eminent demise. Sparks are flying everywhere and everyone is getting burned. Raina and Duncan’s passion is going to explode.

There is so much more to this ongoing story. Each book unravels another piece of the overall plot. I would highly recommend reading Lay It Down by Cara McKenna, book one in this series. I can’t wait for the next book.

____________________________________
Author Bio:

Cara McKenna writes contemporary romance and smart erotica, sometimes under the name Meg Maguire, and has sold more than thirty-five novels and novellas to Ellora’s Cave, Penguin, Harlequin Blaze, Samhain, and Signet Eclipse. She’s known for writing no-nonsense, working-class heroes with capable hands and lousy grammar. She was a 2010 Golden Heart finalist, and a two-time Romantic Times Reviewers’ Choice Award nominee. Cara writes full-time and lives in the Pacific Northwest with her own bearded hero.

Website ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

ARC Review: Drawing The Devil by Jon Keys

Posted on 02/05/2015 by shellbellereads

Drawing The Devil

By Jon Keys

Genre: LGBT, M/M Romance

Synopsis

A heart can live a lifetime in eight seconds.

Ever since his father caught him with another boy and threw him out at the tender age of sixteen, Dustin Lewis has been fighting his way up the national bull-riding rankings. He’s on the brink of qualifying for the National Finals when he draws Diablo, a notoriously rank bull—and the ride goes bad.

When bullfighter Shane Rees frees Dustin from the rigging of the same bull that nearly destroyed his face, he comes dangerously close to dropping his guard. Shane knows the potential consequences of being gay in a sport loaded with testosterone-overdosed cowboys, and the resulting scars of mind and body have left him with little self-worth.

Their near-death-by-bull first meeting sparks an attraction that awakens every last one of their personal demons. Yet as the National Finals draws closer, so do they. But they’ll have to overcome emotional highs, near-tragic lows, and bone-crushing danger before love can bust out of the chute.

Warning: Contains man-on-man boot knocking, rawhide and raw emotions, badass cowboys and even badder-ass bulls. This ain’t your old man’s rodeo.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Tina’s Review

The story starts off a little roughly written with short, choppy and stiff narration. Although the plot describes an exciting moment, the elementary style of writing detracted from the enjoyment. Thankfully, it starts to smooth out a little after only 10-15 %. Shane seems like a pretty solid character, if a bit insecure. Dustin is written in a way that more often than not, he comes off as a kid in his mid-teens as opposed to a young man starting his twenties. Maybe it’s his supposed ADHD, but I don’t buy that, being the parent of an ADHD pre-teen. Worse, I had to continually remind myself that Dustin is over twenty years old because, too often, the dynamics between him and Shane felt more like older man and early high school kid. The few secondary characters add good dimension. Dialogue and interaction are passable most of the time. The plot’s synopsis caught my attention immediately as I am a huge fan of bull riding and it sounded intriguing. I have to state that reading that Bushwhacker was some aggressive beast kind of threw me for a loop because the reality of it is quite the opposite, whereas Modified Clyde or David’s Dream would have been a more likely candidate. The plot, in writing, was pretty good and it flows a little better than average. There were numerous conflicts throughout the book, most of which were resolved well. It does, sadly, bring light to the fact that gay men face hate crimes still to this day. Predictability was not too much of an issue. The ending was concluded in a way where all the loose ends were tied and tucked away, but there was enough vagueness in it that there could later be a follow-up book or one featuring Todd and his barrel-racer crush.

Author Bio

My earliest memories revolve around books; with the first ones I can recall reading being “The Warlord of Mars” and anything with Tarzan. (The local library wasn’t particularly up to date.) But as puberty set in I started sneaking my mother’s romance magazines and added the world of romance and erotica to the mix of science fiction, fantasy and comic books.

A voracious reader for almost half a century, I’ve only recently begun creating my own flights of fiction for the entertainment of others. Born in the Southwest and now living in the Midwest, I’ve worked as a ranch hand, teacher, computer tech, roughneck, designer, retail clerk, welder, artist, and, yes, pool boy; with interests ranging from kayaking and hunting to painting and cooking, I draw from a wide range of life experiences to create written works that draw the reader in and wrap them in a good story.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

ARC Review: Rescue Me by Catherine Mann – Second Chance Ranch Series – Book 2

Posted on 02/05/2015 by shellbellereads

Rescue Me

Second Chance Ranch Series – Book 2

By Catherine Mann

Synopsis

Detective AJ Parker left undercover work in Atlanta to join a small-town Tennessee police force, hoping for an easier workload and the solitude of his cabin. But the scars left by AJ’s previous work are more difficult to escape than he thought…

Mary Hannah Gallo works with the Second Chance Ranch Animal Rescue to train therapy dogs for traumatized patients. It isn’t easy, but her life is under control—until she meets the broodingly sensual AJ, who rattles her composure all the way to her toes.

After an assignment confiscating dogs from a backyard breeder reveals a dangerous drug operation, AJ must work with sexy perfectionist Mary Hannah to train an abused rescue dog—a dog now named Holly. While Holly proves to these two very different people that opposites can, in fact, attract, she also knows more than a few explosive secrets that could heal—or divide—the entire town.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Michel’s Review

Rescue Me is the second book in the Second Chance Ranch series by Catherine Mann. This series has a unique flavor too it and grips the readers heart. This series focuses on the battered souls of both humans and animals. It allows these wounded souls to take the journey of healing and becoming whole individuals together. It showcases the importance of love and acceptance all beings need to thrive in life.

What makes this series exceptional is Catherine Mann’s incredible writing talent. These books have been portrayed through the animal’s POV. She clearly shows the generosity and simplicity of the pure hearts these animals possess. She shows how the companionship between animal and man makes the soul thrive.

The formula for this book is quite simple. The emotional content is bountiful. The story is delightful.

Take one woman that is a reformed drug addict. That woman is trying to earn redemption and forgiveness for her past. Take a man, a burned out cop, trying to run from his demons. Add a nasty drug dealer/ meth producer that is a menace to society as well as abusive to animals. His heartless disregard for life endangers all those he comes in contact with. Rescue a dog from that abusive dealer and give her a second chance at life. Her pure heart and gift of love will change both the woman and burned out man. She will bring these two people together and find a home for herself that is overflowing with love. The bad drug dealer will get what’s coming to him. Karma can be real vindictive.

Everything about Rescue Me worked. It is a story of healing. It is a story of many kinds of different love. It is a story of hope.

As an animal lover and owner of five rescue pets, this book touched my soul. I loved how Catherine Mann showed the world how animals can make a difference in our lives.

Author Bio:

USA Today bestselling author Catherine Mann writes contemporary romance for Berkley, Harlequin, and Sourcebooks, with her work reprinted in more than twenty countries. She lives on the Florida coast where she and her military flyboy husband have brought up four children. An active volunteer with her local Humane Society, Catherine enjoys writing while foster puppies nap on her feet. FMI: http://catherinemann.com

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

6- Star ARC Review: Ripper by Lexi Blake

Posted on 02/04/2015 by Saucy Southern Readers

Hunter, A Thieves Series Book 1

Kelsey Atwood is a private detective with a problem. She came from a family of hunters, growing up on the wrong side of the supernatural world. Tracking down bail jumpers and deadbeat dads may not make her a lot of friends, but it’s a lot safer than the life she turned her back on. She was hoping to escape from the nightmares of her past, but her latest case has brought them right back to her door.

A young woman has gone missing, and she didn’t go willingly. When Kelsey discovers that the girl is actually a shifter, she knows she should drop the case and walk away. But this shifter was a sweet kid, and she’s in serious trouble. More females are missing and the evidence points to a legendary killer. Bodies are piling up, and her case is becoming center stage for a conflict that could shatter the fragile peace between wolves and vampires.

As the hunt intensifies, she finds herself trapped between two men—Gray, a magnetic half-demon lawman, and the ancient vampire Marcus Vorenus. Both men call to her, but when a shocking secret about Kelsey’s family is revealed, it could ruin them all. To stop the killer, she will have to embrace the truth about who—and what—she truly is.

BUY:

eBook: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | iTunes | Google

Print book: Amazon

Kelley’s Review

Lexi’s stories just keep getting better and better. The Thieves series is my absolute favorite urban fantasy series. The characters are complex and the problems they face seem to be getting darker and darker. It is very easy to get lost in Lexi’s stories as you embark on epic adventures with the most unusual characters.

In Ripper, the gang is back together again and we see what life is like after Daniel becomes king, a father, and a partner to both Zoey and Dev. When he faces what the Nex Apparatus really is, he handles things poorly and in the blink of an eye evertying is sprialling out of control. He forced to make some harsh decisions that go against those advice of those he whom he loves.

Kelsey Atwood is a loner. She has only one real friend and she keeps people at arms length. Kelsey will find out later on that there is a reason why, and she will not want to accept it. She is a badass tracker and can find things that other people overlook which makes her a great private investigator. When she is given a missing person’s case that leads her into the supernatural world, she finds something that she never though existed. Love.

Grayson Sloane is in love with Kelsey Atwood. He has been since the day he laid down in a hotel bridal suite and had a vision of her as his beautiful bride. Now he just has to convince Kelsey that his love for her is real. That becomes a much harder feat than he ever anticipated. Once the truth is uncovered he stands to loose everything.

Of course we get to see the infamous Marcus Vorenus. I have been rooting for Marcus to get a happily ever after since Steal The Light and it almost seems as if he does, but there is only one problem. Kelsey is not a vamipire companion and Marcus’s destiny is set in place. He will have a companion someday. For now he becomes her closest confidant and trains her to trust her instincts and control what lies beneath the exterior.

This story made me laugh and cry and kept me up until 1:00 am on a work night. I was gripping my iPad during the finale fight scene so hard my fingers are still store. Lexi had me on the edge of my seat. I adored Kelsey and am looking forward to her next adventure in this series. Bravo Lexi on writting one heck of a rollercoaster ride.

***WARNING***

Before reading any novel by Lexi Blake you must take a few precautions.

Get comfortable (change into your jammies and curl up on the couch)
Grab some wine
Get a box of tissues
Turn off your cell phone
Have B.O.B. on standby with plenty of batteries

You are now ready to take an epic adventure to the dark side.

***SNEAK PEEK of cover for ADDICT A Thieves Series Book 2 ***

Ripper can be read as standalone but I think you will find it most enjoyable after reading the other books in this series click the cover to view or purchase on Amazon.

Steal The Light (Book 1)

Steal The Day (Book 2)

Steal The Moon (Book 3)

Steal The Sun (Book 4)

Steal the Night (Book 5)

Author Bio

NY Times and USA Today bestselling author Lexi Blake lives in North Texas with her husband, three kids, and the laziest rescue dog in the world. She began writing at a young age, concentrating on plays and journalism. It wasn’t until she started writing romance and urban fantasy that she found the stories of her heart. She likes to find humor in the strangest places and believes in happy endings no matter how odd the couple, threesome, or foursome may seem.

Her first novel, Their Virgin Captive: Masters of Ménage, Book 1, was a collaboration with New York Times bestselling author Shayla Black. There are four more books available in the series: Their Virgin’s Secret, Their Virgin Concubine, Their Virgin Princess and Their Virgin Hostage. The next book in the series, Their Virgin Secretary, is coming to Amazon this April.

In addition to the Masters of Ménage series, she is the author of the Masters and Mercenaries series. The first five novels, The Dom Who Loved Me, The Men with the Golden Cuffs, A Dom is Forever, On Her Master’s Secret Service, and Love and Let Die are available now, along with a novella titled Sanctum. The sixth novel, Dungeon Royale, is coming in February of 2014 along with two new novellas, Unconditional, releasing in January of 2014 and Dungeon Games, coming in May of 2014.

In 2013, Lexi also began releasing her urban fantasy series, Thieves. The first two books, Steal the Light and Steal the Day are available now on Amazon. Book 3 in the series, Steal the Moon, is coming in January of 2014.

For more information about her books, her appearances and her wacky life visit her Facebook page (http://goo.gl/q2IHnJ) or her website (http://www.lexiblake.net).

ARC Review: Quarterback Draw by Jaci Burton – Play By Play Series- Book 9

Posted on 02/04/2015 by shellbellereads

Quarterback Draw

Play By Play Series – Book 9

By Jaci Burton

Synopsis

Playing For Keeps

Grant Cassidy knows how to be a football star—flash that dazzling smile, throw the winning pass, get the girl. But while the hot quarterback loves the game and the lifestyle, no woman has come close to catching his heart. Then he matches wits with a smart, gorgeous model, and Grant finds himself wanting more than a fling.

Supermodel Katrina Koslova might live in a world of glitz and camera flashes, but she works hard to provide for the family that relies on her. She doesn’t have time for fun—much less a boyfriend—but Grant seems determined to be the exception to Katrina’s rule.

Their explosive chemistry is undeniable, but Katrina’s afraid to let go and rely on anyone but herself. Grant intends to ease her fears and prove he’s a man of style and substance.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Michel’s Review

Most people say you can’t judge a book by it’s cover. The cover for Quarterback Draw is one of the hottest covers I have seen. It definitely draws a reader to pick up this book. In this case, the book is just a yummy as the cover.

Quarterback Draw is another sexy addition to the Play By Play series by Jaci Burton. This is the ninth book in this successful erotic sports romance series. Jaci Burton has added another hot professional athlete to the roster of all stars.

Grant Cassidy is one of the hottest quarterbacks on and off the field. He takes the meaning of player to a whole new level until he meets Katrina Koslova. She’s a whole new game that he intends to win. This time there is more at stake than scoring. His heart has been engaged in the game.

Katrina is unlike all the other women Grant has encountered. She has more than her super model looks going for her. The one thing that sets her apart is the fact that even though she is attracted to him, she has flat out turned him down. The game is on.

Patience and persistence are the latest strategies in Grant’s game plan. Utilizing all the players in the game, namely Katrina’s brother and sister, to help him get his foot in the door is a brilliant game plan.

Although Katrina is extremely attracted to Grant, she can’t indulge in having a relationship. She has family responsibilities that come first. She is determined to raise her brother and sister and give them a better life than she was given.

As Grant and Katrina fumble around in the game of love the readers will be their number one fans. These two people are amazing. If Katrina can let her defenses down she will have the opportunity of winning the ultimate prize. She will win the love of a lifetime.

Quarterback Draw is hands down one of my favorite books in this series. Grant and Katrina were remarkable characters that were easy to relate to and easy to fall in love with. Their families added that extra something special that makes a book stand out. Their charm and dedication to Grant and Katrina was heartwarming.

One of the best parts of this book was the first Annual Cassidy Football Game. It was a riot and had me rolling with laughter.

Everything about the Quarterback Draw worked! I loved it!

Quarterback Draw can be read as a stand alone novel. It does not have to be read in series order.

_____________________________

Author Bio:

Jaci Burton is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling, award-winning author of over 60 books. She lives in Oklahoma and when she isn’t on deadline, she can usually be found trying to convince her husband to remodel some room or another in their house (she blames HGTV for this). She loves gardening, sports, casinos and getting lost in a great book. She’s a total romantic and longs for the happily ever after in every story, which you’ll find in all her books.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

ARC Review: Hero by Samantha Young

Posted on 02/04/2015 by shellbellereads

Hero

By Samantha Young

Synopsis

The emotional and unforgettable new romance from the New York Times bestselling author of the On Dublin Street series.

Alexa Holland’s father was her hero—until her shocking discovery that her mother and she weren’t his only family. Ever since, Alexa has worked to turn her life in a different direction and forge her own identity outside of his terrible secrets. But when she meets a man who’s as damaged by her father’s mistakes as she is, Alexa must help him.

Caine Carraway wants nothing to do with Alexa’s efforts at redemption, but it’s not so easy to push her away. Determined to make her hate him, he brings her to the edge of her patience and waits for her to walk away. But his actions only draw them together and, despite the odds, they begin an intense and explosive affair.

Only Caine knows he can never be the white knight that Alexa has always longed for. And when they’re on the precipice of danger, he finds he’ll do anything to protect either one of them from being hurt again….

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Tracey’s Review

Since finding out that she is the dirty little secret of the prestigious Holland family of Boston, Alexa Holland has not had the easiest life. Never feeling like she was enough for her father or his wealthy family, Alexa has worked hard to make a place for herself in the world. But Alexa is not the only casualty of Alistair Holland’s poor choices, and when she meets Caine Carraway, who has suffered his own loss at the hands of Alexa’s family, she is determined to make amends. Only Caine is not in the business of forgetting, or forgiving.

I love a book with a hot alpha man. And if the main female character is strong and self-sufficient, even better. I was hooked from the first page of HERO, because Samantha Young has written a story with stong characters, an intriguing plot, and lots and lots of hot and sexy scenes. Alexa is more than a product of her past. She’s been dealt a crummy hand, and has risen above it to make a life for herself that is a far cry from the shame of her childhood. She is smart and successful in her own right, and not afraid to speak her mind, which I love to see, because it makes for a much more interesting story. When Caine realizes who Alexa is, he is determined to exact revenge for his own suffering. But Alexa, being the strong woman that she is, refuses to make it easy for him, intent on helping him whether he wants it or not. With such strong main characters, the chemistry between the two of them was bound to be combustible, and Samantha does not disappoint. The spark between Alexa and Caine is immediate, undeniable, and white-hot. I could not put this book down because I was so invested in seeing how their relationship would play out.

The addition of extremely likable and entertaining supporting characters like Rachel, Effie, and Henry make this read even more enjoyable. As HERO is my first experience with Samantha’s books, I look forward to reading her others, and give this one five hot stars.

___________________________

Author Bio:

Samantha Young is a New York Times, USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author from Stirlingshire, Scotland. She’s been nominated for the Goodreads Choice Award 2012 for Best Author and Best Romance for her international bestseller ON DUBLIN STREET. ON DUBLIN STREET is Samantha’s first adult contemporary romance series and has sold in twenty-eight countries.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

ARC Review: In His Keeping by Maya Banks – Slow Burn Series – Book 2

Posted on 02/04/2015 by shellbellereads

In His Keeping

Slow Burn Series – Book 2

By Maya Banks

Synopsis

Abandoned as a baby to a young wealthy couple and raised in a world of privilege, Arial has no hint of her past or who she belonged to. Her only link lies in the one thing that sets her apart from everyone else—telekinetic powers. Protected by her adoptive parents and hidden from the public to keep her gift secret, Ari is raised in the lap of luxury, and isolation. That is, until someone begins threatening her life.

Beau Devereaux is no stranger to the strange. As the head of Deveraux Security, he’s more than familiar with the realities of physic powers. So when a family friend approaches him about protecting his daughter, he’s more than ready to jump on board. What Beau isn’t prepared for is the extent of his attraction to his beautiful and powerful client. What began as a simple assignment, just another job, quickly turns personal as Beau discovers he’ll do anything at all to protect Ari. Even if it costs him his life.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Michel’s Review

In His Keeping by Maya Banks is the second book in the Slow Burn series. This addition to the Slow Burn series was a vast improvement over the first book, Keep Me Safe. Maya Banks brought her A Game to this novel and delivered a story that fans have come to expect. This book had suspense, a touch of paranormal, a well executed plot and red hot romance. The characters were well developed. The pacing of the story was fluid and kept the reader engaged throughout the book.

Arial is a young woman with an extraordinary gift. She has telekinetic powers. Her adoptive parents hid her gift and taught her from a young age to hide this gift. They were fearful that the knowledge of this gift could bring harm to Arial if the wrong people found out about it. They kept her sheltered from the world. She has only had to depend on them. Their fears were valid. After a random video showcases Arial’s gift, trouble comes chasing her down. Arial has been attacked. She’s in danger and she needs help. Beau Deveraux from Deveraux Securities is the man she needs to protect her.

Beau Deveraux is the Deveraux brother known for his muscle. He has a military background. His training qualifies him as an expert bodyguard and security agent. He’s the quiet Deveraux brother that stays behind the scenes, observes, and uses force when necessary. He is rough around the edges and has very little tact. He is content with being single and has no desire to engage in any other kind of relationship with a woman unless it is just sex. His opinions change when he meets Arial. He will do anything to protect her and claim her.

When Arial and her parents are kidnapped, secrets begin to unfold about Arial’s past and bloodline. A secret organization wants to get their hands on her and use her gift for diabolical purposes. Arial’s inner strength kicks in and she becomes a force to be reckoned with. Beau will do everything in his power to rescue and protect the woman he loves.

This story had all the elements the readers have come to expect from a Maya Banks novel. I loved the strong Deveraux family unit, the hot alpha males, the strong but vulnerable heroine, the sizzling sexual chemistry, and fast paced action.

The only thing I struggled with is the insta love between the characters. I like to see a relationship develop between the characters. I want to experience the mental foreplay along with the sexual foreplay. I want to see them grow as a couple.

Overall In His Keeping was a good book. I am looking forward to the next book in the Slow Burn series.

_______________________________________________

Author Bio:
&nbsp: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

ARC Review: Cowboy Delight by Cheryl Brooks- A Cowboy Heaven Novella

Posted on 02/03/2015 by shellbellereads

Cowboy Delight

A Cowboy Heaven Novella

By Cheryl Brooks

Synopsis

Getting stranded has never felt so good…
Lauren Allen is on her way to meet her future in-laws when her car breaks down on a scorching, dusty Texas highway. There’s no shortage of handsome cowboys turning up to save the day, but she puts her trust in local rancher Steve Williams. From the moment she shakes his hand, his warm, calloused grip makes her hotter than she knows what to do with…

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Michel’s Review

Cowboy Delight by Cheryl Brooks is the debut novella in her new Cowboy Heaven series. If you haven’t read any of Cheryl Brooks novels then you are in for a treat. She is a master at writing erotic romance. Her love scenes are sizzling hot, passionate, and believable. Her characters are well developed and easy to relate to. She always delivers a good story along with the sizzling sex.

Cowboy Delight was a very enjoyable read. I was surprised at how well developed this story was considering it was a novella. I never felt like the story was being rushed, I never felt the overall plot was slighted by the sex scenes, and I felt very satisfied with the ending. It was refreshing to read adult characters that are in their thirties and have a great sense of self along with maturity.

Lauren is on her way to meet her finances family when her car breaks down in the middle of Texas. Being stranded in no where Texas is not where Lauren wants to be. When one of the local town cowboys offers her a ride, she is ready to get going.

Steve Williams is a widower. He is considered a safe, gentlemanly cowboy. He hasn’t dated since his wife’s death a few years earlier. When he lays eyes on Lauren his heart and sexual desires are kick started once again.

Steve and Lauren seem to thrown together by fate. Mother nature lends a helping hand. Rather than getting a ride to Houston, Lauren is getting to ride Steve.

These two are perfect for one another. Will they make the right choices that will make them happy in life?

Read Cowboy Delight.

______________________________________________

About Cheryl Brooks

Cheryl Brooks is a former critical care nurse turned romance writer. Previously published works in her Cat Star Chronicles series include Slave, Warrior, Rogue, Outcast, Fugitive, Hero, Virgin, Stud, and Wildcat. Look for book 10 in July 2014. Her newest series is Unlikely Lovers, including Unbridled, Uninhibited, Undeniable, and Unrivaled. Other self pubs include Midnight in Reno and Sex, Love, and a Purple Bikini and If You Could Read My Mind (writing as Samantha R. Michaels).
She also has several erotic novellas published with Siren/Bookstrand
She is a member of the RWA and lives with her husband, two sons, two horses, four cats, and one dog in rural Indiana.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

ARC Review: Learning To Live by Kira Adams- The Infinite Love Series- Book 1

Posted on 02/03/2015 by shellbellereads

Learning To Live

The Infinite Love Series – Book 1

By Kira Adams

Synopsis

Ciera Nelson wants what any other outcast wants, invisibility. If she can just make it through the rest of her year with minor incidents and a head held low she will be able to put the hell hole they call school in her rearview. Unfortunately, life has different plans for her.

Topher Carlson is one of the biggest jocks on campus. All the guys want to be him, all the girls want to claim him. When secrets are uncovered, Topher’s life spins wildly out of control.

They are far from friends when the school year begins, but each will impact the other’s life in ways they never dreamed possible. Can Ciera help Topher realize that popularity and status mean nothing in the real world? Can Topher help Ciera learn the true meaning of living?

Sometimes you have to let go to really live. Sometimes being alive means taking risks.

Learning to Live is the first book in the Infinite Love series.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Tina’s Review

Format: Defined, Alternating POV. High School Drama.
From the outside, Topher looked like he had it all – looks, the hot girlfriend, athletic ability, popularity and money. But what he really didn’t have was happiness. Now to add to his shitstorm of a life, his dad presents to him an mind-blowing surprise, causing a slow, downward spiral.
Ciera tried to remain as invisible as possible. After all, she did not own a single piece of new clothes, did not wear jewelry or makeup, and didn’t even own a cell phone. She’s not even slept in a bed of her own in longer than she can say. Still, she was content with life – when the “A-team” weren’t busy bullying her.
The characters are refreshingly diverse and complex, well-written in a very realistic teen manner. Well done. The plot epitomizes the drama of high school life and differences in social class and rank. Then, an early life-altering bombshell is dropped – rather early on – which, in turn, ratchets up the emotional intensity even more! The flow is supremely fluid and enjoyable. Throughout the story, there are conflicts that arise, but they are all minor compared to the bigger picture. My emotions feel like they’ve experienced a full-on demolition derby without any safety modifications or gear, it was way more than a standard roller coaster ride. The conclusion was handled excellently with a wonderful epilogue. I hope to have the opportunity to read the next book in this series.

__________________________________________________

Author Bio:

Krista Pakseresht has always been a dreamer. From the first time she opened her eyes. Creating worlds through words is one thing she is truly talented at. She specializes in Young adult/New adult romance, horror, action, fantasy, and non-fiction under the pen name Kira Adams.

She is the author of the Infinite Love series, the Foundation series, the Darkness Falls series, and the Looking Glass series.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Saucy Southern Readers

professional, honest, and timely book reviews

Category Archives: Reviewers

Verum by Courtney Cole : 5 + Star Reviews and 2015 Favorite

ARC Review: Give It All by Cara McKenna – Desert Dogs Series – Book 2

ARC Review: Drawing The Devil by Jon Keys

ARC Review: Rescue Me by Catherine Mann – Second Chance Ranch Series – Book 2

6- Star ARC Review: Ripper by Lexi Blake

ARC Review: Quarterback Draw by Jaci Burton – Play By Play Series- Book 9

ARC Review: Hero by Samantha Young

ARC Review: In His Keeping by Maya Banks – Slow Burn Series – Book 2

ARC Review: Cowboy Delight by Cheryl Brooks- A Cowboy Heaven Novella

ARC Review: Learning To Live by Kira Adams- The Infinite Love Series- Book 1

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this: