Review: Last Hit by Jessica Clare and Jen Frederick – The Hitman Series – Book 1

Posted on 02/03/2015 by shellbellereads

Last Hit

Hitman Series – Book 1

By Jessica Clare and Jen Frederick

Synopsis

rom two bestselling authors—the first in a deliciously bold new series that takes readers to the most dangerous edge of desire . . .

Nikolai: I have been a contract killer since I was a boy. For years I savored the fear caused by my name, the trembling at the sight of my tattoos. The stars on my knees, the marks on my fingers, the dagger in my neck, all spoke of danger. If you saw my eyes, it was the last vision you’d have. I have ever been the hunter, never the prey. With her, I am the mark and I am ready to lie down and let her capture me. Opening my small, scarred heart to her brings out my enemies. I will carry out one last hit, but if they hurt her, I will bring the world down around their ears.

Daisy: I’ve been sheltered from the outside world all my life. Home-schooled and farm-raised, I’m so naive that my best friend calls me Pollyanna. I like to believe the best about people. Nikolai is part of this new life, and he’s terrifying to me. Not because his eyes are cold or my friend warns me away from him, but because he’s the only man who has ever seen the real me beneath the awkwardness. With him, my heart is at risk . . . and also, my life.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Paperback Available : Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Michel’s Review

Last Hit is the first book in the phenomenal Hitman Series by Jessica Clare and Jen Frederick. This book was originally self published and has now become part of the Penguin Publishing . It has an updated cover and is available in paperback. Readers will be able to go into their favorite book store and see this book sitting upon it’s shelves.

I originally read this book when it first released over a year ago. I was mesmerized by the characters and their story. I could not forget them. When I was given the opportunity to reread and review this book I jumped on it.

Daisy has lived a very sheltered life. Her father has let his fears take over their lives. After her mother was killed by a violent crime her father went off the deep end. He became fearful of society and paranoid about everything outside of his home. He now suffers from agoraphobia. He has kept Daisy locked inside the four walls of their home. The only time she is allowed to leave is to shop for food and take care of matters outside the home. Her time away from home is regulated and censored. Daisy has patiently scrimped, saved, and plotted her escape. The day has come and she is running away to attend college and make a life for herself. She is naive, innocent, frightened, and brave.

Nikolai has been a contract killer since he was a boy. He started with the Russian mafia and is now an independent contractor. He is cold, emotionless, calculated, and untouchable. He’s ready to leave the world he knows behind but he has to complete his last job. It is will be his Last Hit. In preparation for this last hit, he holes up in an unassuming apartment where he can remain anonymous. He can get the job done and disappear. That is his goal until he discovers the beauty in the apartment building across from him. As he watches this beauty from his window, day in and day out, he becomes mesmerized by her beauty, simplicity, innocence, and resilience. He can clearly see that she has many things in common with his lonely existence.

When Nick and Daisy finally meet face to face they are drawn together. They are learning to live and love. Can they find a true happiness together ? Both want it desperately but first Nick will have to complete the Last Hit.

Once the job is completed he plans to live his life with Daisy. But the job does not want to let him go. His past comes knocking on their door. The only thing that seems clear in both Nick and Daisy’s future is death.

I will not say much more. This book is loaded with action that will keep the reader on the edge of their seats. It is also loaded with a heart warming romance that leads to an all consuming red hot love.

Jessica Clare and Jen Frederick are both fantastic writers. Their individual works have captured the readers attention. Together they have created a phenomenal unforgettable series. The Hitman Series will not disappoint.

Last Hit started it all. Will these characters survive or die? Read the book!

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Last Hit

Book 1

From two bestselling authors—the first in a deliciously bold new series that takes readers to the most dangerous edge of desire . . .

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / IBooks

Last Breath

Book 2

From the bestselling authors of Last Hit comes the next in the steamy series that explores the exquisite power of our darkest passions . . .

Regan: I never really knew what misery was until the day I was kidnapped and sold for being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Two months later, I’m at a brothel in Rio when I meet Daniel Hays. He says he’s here to save me, but can I trust him? All I know of him are his sarcastic retorts and his tendency to solve every dispute with his gun. He’s also the only safe thing in my world, and I know it’s wrong to fall in love with him, but I can’t seem to help myself. He says he’ll protect me until his last breath, but I don’t know if I should believe him or even if I can.

Daniel: For the last eighteen months, one goal has dictated every action I’ve taken. I’ve left the Army, turned paid hit man, and befriended criminals all across the globe to find my kidnapped sister. In every brothel I raid and every human trafficking truck I stop, I hope the next face I find is my sister’s. In a hidden brothel in Rio, I find Regan Porter, bruised but not broken, and still sane despite her weeks in captivity. I should leave her behind or send her home, because the last thing either of us needs right now is to get involved. But with every passing minute, I find I’m less able to let her go.

MATURE AUDIENCE

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Last Hit Reloaded

A Hitman Novella

Release Date: January 20, 2015

With their explosively sexy novels, the bestselling authors of Last Breath, Last Kiss, and Last Hit have proven themselves “a force to be reckoned with.”* Now comes an all-new to-die-for novella in their acclaimed Hitman series…
There was a time when Nick loved the fear he instilled in his enemies. His tattoos alone promised danger, but it was the look in his eyes that delivered on it. A contract killer since he was just a boy, Nick has now forged a new life—and a new identity—with the woman who followed him, captured him, and changed him.
He terrified Daisy. Once. But she couldn’t resist, and she ignored every warning. It paid off. Now she’s part of a new beginning, a fresh start in America helping him to leave behind a reckless and violent past as a professional killer. But the past is never easy to outrun, especially when so much of it thrives on revenge.
A new threat has emerged from the shadows, and now Nick and Daisy have no choice but to rely on Nick’s killer skills to protect them from everything they’ve tried so hard to escape.

Includes a bonus excerpt from Last Kiss.

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Last Kiss

Book 3

Release Date: May 5, 2015

From the bestselling authors of Last Hit and Last Breath comes the next dark and sensual tale in the Hitman series that crosses the line between danger and desire…

Naomi: When I was kidnapped I thought only of survival. I don’t thrive well in chaos. That’s why I gave my captors exactly what they wanted: my skill with computers. Making millions for a crime lord who kept me imprisoned in his basement compound kept my family safe. When he was taken out, I thought my ticket to freedom had arrived. Wrong. I traded one keeper for another. This time I’m in the hands of a scarred, dark, demanding Russian who happens to be the head of the Bratva, a Russian crime organization. He wants my brain and my body. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t intrigued, but I can’t be a prisoner forever…no matter how good he makes me feel.

Vasily: At a young age, I was taught that a man without power is a puppet for all. I’ve clawed—and killed—my way to the top so that it is my heel on their necks. But to unify the fractured organization into an undefeatable machine, I need a technological genius to help me steal one particular artifact. That she is breathtaking, determined, and vulnerable is making her more dangerous than all of my enemies combined. But only I can keep her safe from the world that she now inhabits. Soon, I must choose between Naomi and Bratva law. But with every day that passes, this becomes a more impossible choice.

Pre-Order: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / IBooks

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About The Authors

Jessica Clare is a New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author who writes under three different names. As Jill Myles, she writes a little bit of everything, from sexy, comedic urban fantasy to zombie fairy tales. As Jessica Clare, she writes erotic contemporary romance.

She also has a third pen name (because why stop at two?). As Jessica Sims, she writes fun, sexy shifter paranormals. She lives in Texas with her husband, cats, and too many dust-bunnies. Jill spends her time writing, reading, writing, playing video games, and doing even more writing.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Pinterest
Jen Frederick lives with her husband, child, and one rambunctious dog. She’s been reading stories all her life but never imagined writing one of her own. Jen loves to hear from readers so drop her a line at jensfrederick@gmail.com

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

ARC Review: Surrender by Violetta Rand – Devil’s Den Series – Book 1

Posted on 02/02/2015 by shellbellereads

Surrender

Devil’s Den Series – Book 1

By Violetta Rand

Synopsis

Fans of Abbi Glines will adore Violetta Rand’s novels about strong-willed women who must fight to survive—and the men who love them. Welcome to the Devil’s Den, a Texas strip club where the air is heavy with desire . . . and sometimes dreams come true.

Ever since her mother kicked her out, twenty-year-old Robyn Gonzalez has been working the poles at the Devil’s Den, saving up to finish college and travel the world. With only her wits and her gorgeous body to rely on, Robyn has learned to be independent—fiercely independent. She’s never been tempted to let a man distract her from her dreams . . . until she meets the dead-sexy Garrick Dempsey.

The club’s new head of security, Garrick had walked away from a career as a mechanical engineer to return to his roots in Corpus Christi. He hadn’t planned on getting to know someone like Robyn, with her sinfully sweet combination of vulnerability and strength, at the Devil’s Den. She acts tough, but only because she’s been hurt. Soon Garrick knows he will do anything to win Robyn’s trust. And if that means surrendering to the red-hot chemistry between them, all the better.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Tina’s Review

Alternating POV format. The characters are good, enjoyable even, but seemed a little porous. It has a fairly unique plot, more so than many I’ve read lately. Interaction and dialogue was, for the most part, believable. The plot layout had a lot of potential and was great in some aspects, but felt thin and even gaping in some areas. I would have liked to see a more solid and cohesive tie-in between their education and upbringing to their present lives, there was just not a solid enough reflection for me to truly feel connected with the characters or story. It wraps up tidily. There is some minor predictability, but not too much where it would ruin the overall effect. The overall concept was intriguing, but the execution was a little too busy and loose. Above average read, but not quite great.

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Author Bio:

Raised in Corpus Christi, Texas, Violetta Rand spent her childhood reading, writing, and playing soccer. After meeting her husband in New England, they moved to Alaska where she studied environmental science and policy as an undergraduate before attending graduate school. Violetta then spent nearly a decade working as an environmental scientist, specializing in soil and water contamination and environmental assessments.

Violetta still lives in Anchorage, Alaska and spends her days writing evocative New Adult romance and historical romance. When she’s not reading, writing, or editing, she enjoys time with her husband, pets, and friends. In her free time, she loves to hike, fish, and ride motorcycles and 4-wheelers.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

ARC Review: Flirting With Disaster by Victoria Dahl – Girls Night Out Series – Book 2

Posted on 02/02/2015 by shellbellereads

Flirting With Disaster

Girls Night Out Series – Book 2

By Victoria Dahl

Synopsis

There’s no hiding from sizzling chemistry…

Artist Isabelle West has good reasons for preferring a solitary life. Tucked away in a cabin in the woods, she has everything she needs…except a red-hot love life. That is, until a hard-bodied US marshal threatens to unearth secrets she’s spent years protecting. But giving in to the sparks flying between them can only lead to one thing…disaster.

Tom Duncan lives by the letter of the law. But no one has tempted him—or confused him—more than free-spirited Isabelle, who arouses his suspicion and his desire. As their connection grows, and their nights get hotter, they find their wild attraction might shake everything he stands for—and expose everything she has to hide.

Bonus Girls’ Night Out novella, Fanning the Flames, included!

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Tina’s Review

Daughter of a federal fugitive, Isabelle’s been hiding and running for the last fourteen years. When Tom is assigned to protect a judge near her remote cabin, she grows suspicious of his true motives, which -naturally- trigger his own suspicions of her evasiveness. He senses that she’s in trouble and he wants to help her, if only she’d trust him enough. As they find their attraction growing growing, lies get heavier and outside threats close in. Danger and deceit are hard to disentangle. An exciting plot! Great characters: they are strong, smart and witty. The dialogue and interaction is fantastic, the sexy scenes are a little off for me, but overall was decent. The plot was full of dimension and dynamics and flowed quite smoothly. The conflict carried through and was resolved well with virtually no predictability. The conclusion was pretty solid and there’s a small teaser to the next book in the series as a BONUS – separate from the main story.

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Author Bio:

I have my mother to thank for my passion for writing. My mom is an avid reader of popular fiction, and I began reading highly inappropriate books around the age of eleven, I think. (Thanks, Mom, for always leaving those delicious books strewn about!)

To Tempt a Scotsman, a Golden Heart winning historical, was my first published book. Here I am signing the cover! A Rake’s Guide to Pleasure (which was excerpted at the back of Scotsman) is my second.

Due to my all-around goofiness, my agent suggested I also try my hand at a contemporary romantic comedy. Boy, is my agent smart! I had a great time writing Talk Me Down, the story of a young woman who goes back to her small hometown in Colorado and causes a huge stir with her secretive career and her burgeoning relationship with the chief of police. Not only did I have a great time writing it, but Tara Parsons at HQN liked it too! So if you like cold weather, hot sex and dirty jokes, be sure to check out Talk Me Down (out in January 2009).

Speaking of cold weather, my family and I live in a beautiful ski town in
Utah. No, I don’t ski. I prefer to sit inside with a hot toddy and a good
book while the snow falls. It’s especially beautiful to watch when from the inside!

I have a wonderful husband and children, and the house is kind of crowded, what with the dukes, Scotsmen, police chiefs, and naughty ladies running around, but my family is very understanding about my imaginary friends. Good thing, since they refuse to leave!

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

6 Star Review + Excerpt + Giveaway: Three Two One by JA Huss

Posted on 02/02/2015 by shellbellereads

Three Two One

Dark Suspense / Erotic Romance

Stand Alone Novel- Non traditional M/F/M Romance

By JA Huss

Synopsis

ONE GIRL

Battered, barefoot, and huddled under a bookstore awning in the pouring rain, Blue only knows one thing. After fifteen months of captivity, finally… she is free.

TWO FRIENDS

Self-made millionaires JD and Ark are not out to save anyone when they stumble upon a wet and shivering girl one early Sunday morning. But when you sell sex for a living and salvation rings your bell… you answer the call.

THREE SOULMATES

After years of searching, love lifts the veil of darkness, and three people—with three very big secrets—find themselves bound together in a relationship that defies the odds.

Or does it?

Love. Lust. Sex.

This trinity might be perfection… but not everything should come in threes.

WARNING: This is a STANDALONE non-traditional M/F/M ROMANCE with a non-traditional ending.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Excerpt

Who is this man?
How did I get from where I was to where I am?
Why do I constantly have to ask myself this question?
“Did you like school growing up, Blue?”
“You’re out of questions. You owe me, I don’t owe you.”
His laugh makes his chest rumble beneath my back. “You’re right. I do. But we’ve got all day, so let’s just talk for now. High school. Yes or no?”
I let out a long breath and try to enjoy the intimacy he’s offering. I don’t get a lot of offers. “Yes, I liked school.”
“Were you smart? Did you get good grades?”
“Yes.”
“And what did you want to be when you grew up?”
And there it is. He’s pretty good at this, I have to give him credit for that. He’s asking questions about the distant past so he can draw conclusions about the present.
“It’s not a hard question.”
“What did you want to be?” I ask, not to be a bitch and throw it back in his face, but because I’m interested. “King of Public Porn was something you aspired to?”
“Believe it or not, I wanted to be a soldier. A Navy SEAL.”
“Hmmm. Tough one. It’s like me saying I wanted to be a novelist.” I look over my shoulder a little so I can get a peek at his face. But he surprises me by resting his scratchy chin on my shoulder, making the moment even more intimate than it was.
“Huh. I don’t see the connection.”
I roll my eyes even though he can’t see them. “It’s a dream people have. The reality of it is so much bullshit.”
“Because it’s hard to make it to the finish line?”
“Are you a Navy SEAL?”
“Are you a novelist?”
“No, that’s my point. It’s just a dream.”
“Do you even write?” His hands slide up my front and cup my breasts. He squeezes them hard and the familiar throbbing begins between my legs. Goddamn, this guy is good. Always got his eye on the prize. And how the fuck did sex with him become a treat I desire instead of the other way around? How did he do that? Make me want him so thoroughly?
“Blue?”
I let out a long breath, hoping to calm the rising storm building inside me. But the heat of the water, and the heat of his body, and the heat of my own desire are all I can think about. So instead of evading, and because I want him to fuck me so badly, and at this point I realize he knew that denying me last night would make me even more susceptible this morning… I answer him with the truth. “I do.”
“Mmm,” he says, his hands rubbing down the inside of my thighs. They dip so low, I can feel the water swirl around my clit.
This makes me gasp a little, and for a fraction of a second, I’m embarrassed. But then the little swirls of water are back and that’s all I can think about.
“Fuck me,” I whisper.
“What do you write, Blue?” he asks like a man in control.
“Stories,” I say, like a woman on the edge of sexual frustration madness.
“Where can I read one?”
“Fuck me.”
“If I fuck you, will you let me read one?”
I turn around in the tub and look him in the eyes. They are knowing. Like they know I’m his. “Fuck me like you’d fuck your wife on her wedding night.”
“And you’ll give me a story?”
I nod. “I promise.” It comes out as a whisper.
He leans down and kisses me. His hand cups the side of my face and I turn into him even more. My leg hits his erection and that makes him claim my mouth harder. His tongue pushes inside, searching. Like he’s seeking the truth and it can only be found by twining ourselves together.

Michel’s Review

Wow! JA Huss has done it again! Three Two One was beyond exceptional ! The character dynamics, the deep seated lust, the dark theme, and the intense suspense kept me glued to the pages. I could not put this book down. There was never a moment of predictability. Each character was deliciously flawed. Their relationship was unique and heartfelt. Their moment of truth was devastating. In the end it left the readers stunned but satisfied with the outcome of this extraordinary book.

Not everything should come in threes.

I have read many menage themed books. In most cases I became bored with this type of book pretty quickly. I found that most of these books focused on the sex and did not build a convincing case that three people could make a successful relationship. I struggle with two alpha males sharing one woman because it is not typically in their nature. Most alpha males are the “MINE” kind of guys.

Three Two One was convincing. It was realistic. I could understand the characters motivations, drives, and desires. I felt their deep connections. I also felt their fears and apprehensions. I could see the rivalry, resentments, insecurities, and complete surrender.

JA Huss did a wonderful job allowing the readers to get inside each of the characters heads. It made their story much more credible. The lust, desire, and sex scenes were sizzling hot. But what was so amazing about these three people was the love and romance they shared. At the same time she built a dark, seedy, mysterious plot that would eventually tear their world to pieces.

Words cannot describe how good this book was. JA Huss is a brilliant writer!

Read Three Two One for an amazing reading experience.

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

Giveaway

Signed Copy of 321

Super Swag Pack

$50 Amazon Gift Card

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Happy Release + Excerpt + 5 Star Review + Giveaway: All Of Me by Lisa Renee Jones – Inside Out Series – Book 6

Posted on 02/02/2015 by shellbellereads

All Of Me

The Final Inside Out Book in Series

By Lisa Renee Jones

Release Date: February 2, 2015

Passion. Mystery. It all collides in the breathtaking ALL OF ME.
He’s rich and famous, his past dark, but so is hers. Can they save each other? Or will the darkness tear them apart?
***

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Excerpt

We say a quick goodbye, and to my shock, the instant I push the “end” button, Chris pulls

the 911 to the shoulder of the road, puts it in park and turns to me. “Talk to me. What just

happened?”

“You stopped to ask me what happened?”

“Yes. I stopped to ask what happened. Now, tell me.”

My lashes lower a moment as I savor just how good this man is to me. I curl my fingers

on my cheek. “Thank you for stopping, but really, there was nothing worthy of concern. Let’s go

to the chateau.”

“After you tell me what happened,” he orders, but the tenderness lacing the stubborn

determination of his tone wins me over, as does his sincerity. He really cares and I am truly not

alone anymore.

“When Katie wanted to know if there was anyone on my side of the family to coordinate

with, it hit a nerve. I started worrying about Ella, and thinking about my father, who I don’t want

to come to our wedding. I truly don’t, yet somehow, the very fact that I don’t gives him the

power to twist me in knots.”

Chris nods. “As did my father to me, no matter how much of a bastard he became.

Sometimes I think the worse he treated me, the more I wanted to win back his affection.”

I’d seen glimpses of these feelings before now, but this is the first time he’s spoken them

aloud. “Maybe it’s some inborn need to feel close to a parent?”

“That’s the only conclusion I could come to when I couldn’t let him go. I still can’t. He’s

always with me, making sure I stay just a little more fucked up.”

“If you’re fucked up, it’s all kinds of right, Chris Merit. That charity work Tristan talked

about? You don’t just throw money at it. You give pieces of your soul to those kids and their

families. You make a difference and I’ll be honored to help you do it.”

He pulls my hand to his mouth and kisses my fingers. “Let’s elope. Anyplace you want to

Say the word and as far as I’m concerned we’ll go tomorrow.”

“What? No. We decided on Katie and Mike’s place together. And my ring isn’t even

done.”

“This isn’t about a ring. Or Katie and Mike, or anyone else. It’s about us and I don’t want

you worried about your father or the guest list. You know I’m not big on attention anyway.”

I lace my fingers with his. “You’re trying to protect me and I appreciate that, but I want to

get married under those hanging rose your mother inspired Katie to plant.”

“Don’t do this for me, baby. I just want to spend the rest of my life with you. That’s all I

need.”

“It’s for us. You know my father is just a hot button for me. I’ll get by it. And truth be

told, I’m a little raw over Amber, too. That night here in Paris when I went to the club I had this

sense I needed to save her. I shouldn’t have listened to that feeling.”

“Don’t do that to yourself. You barely knew her.”

“Yet, on some level I felt her screaming for help. But I second-guessed myself and

thought it was Rebecca and Ella influencing my feelings.”

“You were a lot of the reason I pushed to get Amber help, Sara. It was just too little too

late. That’s on me, not you.”

“No-”

“Yes,” he says, stroking the hair out of my eyes, his hand staying at the back of my head.

“Now here’s what’s going to happen. We’re going to leave this all right here and I’m going to

drive us the fifteen minutes we have left to get to the chateau, where we’re going to fuck like

rabbits. Then, we’re going to eat and fuck some more. After we sleep, we’ll set some rules with

Katie about the wedding so you won’t worry about it and then we’ll fuck some more. And since I

had the caretaker that lives in the house behind the chateau stock enough food to last us a week,

we can stay in bed for days on end. Any objections so far?”

I smile and not just at his words, but at his rapid shift from dark Chris, to playful, sexy

Chris. “And if I do?”

He, leans closer to me, his breath on my ear. “I’ll just tie you to the bed.”

Yes. Please. My list of objections begins to form.

Tracey’s Review

The Inside Out series by Lisa Renee Jones finally draws to a close with ALL OF ME, the last book of the series. This book is the wrap-up for Sara McMillan and Chris Merit, and occurs concurrently with the plot of I BELONG TO YOU, Mark’s and Crystal’s story. I have thoroughly enjoyed each book in this series, and have grown very fond of all of the main characters, seeing them evolve, as they have. Both Sara and Chris have demons, things from their pasts that have shaped them, but they have found, in each other, their safe places. In ALL OF ME, Lisa Renee illustrates how very far Sara and Chris have come, how each makes the other their best possible self. Although they still, especially Chris, have their dark moments, there is absolutely no question that they have overcome so much of their past pain, due to the love that has formed between them. There is absolute trust, complete truth, and the desire to be the better person. Sara has truly come into her own, secure in the knowledge of her strength, of Chris’ love for her, and Chris continues to work to put his need for self-punishment behind him.

There are so many things that make the Inside Out books some of my favorites. The ongoing mystery, the lives and stories of the various characters that are so intricately connected, the utter hotness that are Chris Merit and Mark Compton, and the edge-of-your-seat action that is part of each book have combined to make these books that I can consistently rate 5-plus stars. ALL OF ME, and the entire Inside Out series, are well worth the read. Lisa Renee has done a wonderful job of bringing the reader full circle, answering all of the questions that arose during the series. The remaining mystery revolves around the disappearance of Sara’s friend, Ella (for those folks that don’t remember, , the one that originally introduced her to Rebecca’s journals waaay back when), but, happily, Lisa has written a three-book series that will take us on her journey and give us all the answers.

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Inside Out – Reading Order

If I Were You – Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Being Me- Buy: Amaznon / Barnes and Noble

Revealing Us- Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

His Secrets: Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Rebecca’s Lost Journals Boxed Set (Includes Bk 3.1 & 3.3 and Master Undone)

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

My Hunger- Book 3.4- Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

No In Between- Book 4 – Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

I Belong To You – Book 5 -Coming November 18, 2014

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble/ ITunes

All Of Me – Book 6 – Coming February 22, 2014 –

Buy : Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

_____________________________________________________________________________

New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author Lisa Renee Jones is the author of the highly acclaimed INSIDE OUT SERIES, and is now in development by Suzanne Todd (Alice in Wonderland) for cable TV. In addition, her Tall, Dark and Deadly series and The Secret Life of Amy Bensen series, both spent several months on a combination of the NY Times and USA Today lists.

Watch the video on casting for the INSIDE TV Show HERE

Since beginning her publishing career in 2007, Lisa has published more than 40 books translated around the world. Booklist says that Jones suspense truly sizzles with an energy similar to FBI tales with a paranormal twist by Julie Garwood or Suzanne Brockmann.

Prior to publishing, Lisa owned multi-state staffing agency that was recognized many times by The Austin Business Journal and also praised by Dallas Women Magazine. In 1998 LRJ was listed as the #7 growing women owned business in Entrepreneur Magazine.

Lisa loves to hear from her readers. You can reach her at on her website and she is active on twitter and facebook daily.

GIVEAWAY
INSIDE OUT Prize packs (5 Winners)
$25 Amazon gift card
$15 Starbucks gift card

a Rafflecopter giveaway

6 Star Review + 2015 Favorite: Five Stages of Falling In Love by Rachel Higginson

Posted on 02/01/2015 by shellbellereads

Five Stages of Falling In Love

By Rachel Higginson

About The Five Stages of Falling In Love:

Elizabeth Carlson is living in the pits of hell- also known as grief.

Her husband of eight years, the father of her four children and the love of her life, died from cancer. Grady’s prognosis was grim, even from the start, but Liz never gave up hope he would survive. How could she, when he was everything to her?

Six months later, she is trying to pick up the pieces of her shattered life and get the kids to school on time. Both seem impossible. Everything seems impossible these days.

When Ben Tyler moves in next door, she is drowning in sorrow and pain, her children are acting out, and the house is falling apart. She has no time for curious new friends or unwanted help, but Ben gives her both. And he doesn’t just want to help her with yard work or cleaning the gutters. Ben wants more from Liz. More than she’s capable of ever giving again.

As Liz mourns her dead husband and works her way through the five stages of grief, she finds there’s more of her heart to give than she thought possible. And as new love takes hold, she peels away the guilt and heartache, and discovers there’s more to life than death.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / IBooks

Excerpt:

Abby took her Pop-Tart and plopped down on one of the loungers that were still stacked on top of two others and wrapped in plastic. She began munching on it happily, grinning at me like she’d just won the lottery.

She was in so much trouble.

I walked over to the stranger, eying him skeptically. He held out his remaining beach towel to me and after realizing I stood before him in just a soaking wet tank top and bikini briefs, I took it quickly and wrapped it around my body. I shivered violently, and my dark blonde hair dripped down my face and back. But I didn’t dare adjust the towel, afraid I’d give him more of a show than he’d paid for.

“Good morning,” he laughed at me.

“Good morning,” I replied slowly, carefully.

Up close, he wasn’t the giant I’d originally thought. Now that we were both ground level, I could see that while he was tall, at least six inches taller than me, he wasn’t freakishly tall- which relieved some of my concerns. He still wore his pajamas: blue cotton pants and a white t-shirt that had been stretched out from sleep. He had almost black hair that appeared still mussed and disheveled, but swept over to the side in what could be a trendy style if he brushed it. He seemed to be a few years older than me- if I had to guess thirty-five or thirty-six- and he had dark, intelligent eyes that crinkled in the corners with amusement. He was tanned, and muscular, and imposing. And I hated that he was laughing at me.

“Sorry about the gate,” he shrugged. “I didn’t realize there were kids around.”

“You moved into a neighborhood,” I pointed out dryly. “There’s bound to be kids around.”

His eyes narrowed at the insult but he swallowed his Pop-Tart and agreed, “Fair enough. I’ll keep the gate locked from now on.”

I wasn’t finished with berating him though. His pool caused all kinds of problems for me this morning and since I could only take out so much anger on my six-year-old, I had to vent the rest somewhere. “Who fills their pool the first week of September anyway? You’ve been to New England in the winter, haven’t you?”

He cleared his throat and the last laugh lines around his eyes disappeared. “My real estate agent,” he explained. “It was kind of like a ‘thank you’ present for buying the house. He thought he was doing something nice for me.”

I snorted at that, thinking how my little girl could have… No, I couldn’t go there; physically, I was not emotionally capable of thinking that thought through.

“I really am sorry,” he offered genuinely, his dark eyes flashing with true emotion. “I got in late last night, and passed out on the couch. I didn’t even know the pool was full or the gate was open until I heard you screaming out here.”

Guilt settled in my stomach like acid, and I regretted my harsh tone with him. This wasn’t his fault. I just wanted to blame someone else.

“Look, I’m sorry I was snappish about the pool. I just, I was just worried about Abby. I took it out on you,” I relented, but wouldn’t look him in the eye. I’d always been terrible at apologies. When Grady and I would fight, I could never bring myself to tell him I felt sorry. Eventually, he’d just look at me and say, “I forgive you, Lizzy. Now come here and make it up to me.” With anyone else my pride would have refused to let me give in; but with Grady, the way he smoothed over my stubbornness and let me get away with keeping my dignity, worked every single time.

“It’s alright, I can understand that,” my new neighbor agreed.

We stood there awkwardly for a few more moments, before I swooped down to pick up my plaid pants and discarded robe. “Alright, well I need to go get the kids ready for school. Thanks for convincing her to get out. Who knows how long we would have been stuck there playing Finding Nemo.”

He chuckled but his eyes were confused. “Is that like Marco Polo?”

I shot him a questioning glance, wondering if he was serious or not. “No kids?” I asked.

He laughed again. “Nope, life-long bachelor.” He waved the box of Pop-Tarts and realization dawned on me. He hadn’t really seemed like a father before now, but in my world- my four kids, soccer mom, neighborhood watch secretary, active member of the PTO world- it was almost unfathomable to me that someone his age could not have kids.

I cleared my throat, “It’s uh, a little kid movie. Disney,” I explained and understanding lit his expression. “Um, thanks again.” I turned to Abby who was finishing up her breakfast, “Let’s go, Abs, you’re making us late for school.”

“I’m Ben by the way,” he called out to my back. “Ben Tyler.”

I snorted to myself at the two first names- it somehow seemed appropriate for the handsome life-long bachelor, but ridiculous all the same.

“Liz Carson,” I called over my shoulder. “Welcome to the neighborhood.”

“Uh, the towels?” he shouted after me when we’d reached the gate.

I turned around with a dropped mouth, thinking a hundred different vile things about my new neighbor. “Can’t we… I…” I glanced down helplessly at my bare legs poking out of the bottom of the towel he’d just lent me.

“Liz,” he laughed familiarly, and I tried not to resent him. “I’m just teasing. Bring them back whenever.”

I growled something unintelligible that I hope sounded like “thank you” and spun on my heel, shooing Abby onto the lawn between our houses.

“Nice to meet you, neighbor,” he called out over the fence.

“You too,” I mumbled, not even turning my head to look back at him.

Obviously he was single and unattached. He was way too smug for his own good. I just hoped he would keep his gate locked and loud parties few and far between. He seemed like the type to throw frat party-like keggers and hire strippers for the weekend. I had a family to raise, a family that was quickly falling apart while I floundered to hold us together with tired arms and a broken spirit. I didn’t need a nosy neighbor handing out Pop-Tarts and sarcasm interfering with my life.

Five Stages of Falling In Love By Rachel Higginson is one of those books that should come with instructions. It should also come with a warning label. The reader needs to be prepared when opening this book!

Instructions:

Turn off your phone

Get into your most comfortable jammies

Grab your favorite comfort food

Add extra chocolate to your food stash

Load up on caffeine

Surround yourself with your softest, warmest blanket

Make sure you have a least one full box of tissues

Be prepared not to move for hours

Five Stages of Falling In Love will hold you captive. You will become it’s willing hostage. You will refuse to let go until the very last word is read. You will experience a reading hangover that will last days.

Five Stages of Falling in love is one of the most gut wrenching books I have read. The emotional roller coaster I experienced while reading this book touched me deeply. This is a book of complete heartbreak. It also a book of hope. It is a book about learning to live once again and find absolute joy in life. It is more than a love story. It is a book about life.

Elizabeth Carlson was living the life of her dreams. She had married her true soul mate, her once in a lifetime love, Grady Carlson. Together they had built a wonderful life. They had four beautiful children that were happy and thriving. They were living in their dream home. They were doing well financially. Grady had a successful business that was growing. They had everything they wanted and so much more to look forward to. Then life stepped in and reared it’s ugly head. Grady was diagnosed with brain cancer. The prognosis was not good. Still they clung to hope. They tried to fight fate. Fate won the battle and Grady left his family. He left Elizabeth shattered. He left his children fatherless. He broke their hearts and shattered their lives. How could they go on without him?

Elizabeth is still struggling with the loss of Grady six months after he has passed. It seems that her life has stalled. She has lost control of every aspect of the life she once knew. She is struggling to both a mother and father. She is struggling to maintain control of her parenting abilities. She is struggling to get out of bed each morning and face a new day. She has only begun to go through the five stages of grief.

The five stages of grief are denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. Each stage will break Elizabeth down and rebuild her. Each stage will give her a new gift in life. A new reason to move forward.

Although life reared it’s ugly head and took away Elizabeth’s love of her life, life also gave her several gifts that she will learn to recognize and accept on her new journey. One gift that life has brought to her door early in her journey is her new neighbor Ben Tyler.

Ben offers Elizabeth the friendship, support , and help she doesn’t know she desperately needs. He offers her an unbiased shoulder to cry on. He offers her unconditional help. He offers her more… he offers her his heart. He is willing to wait until she heals. He is willing to help her in her journey. He will be there with his arms wide open and enough love for her and her children to last a lifetime.

Elizabeth’s journey through the five stages of grief will take her down a new road. She will experience the five stages of falling in love. She will learn to live again and love completely.

Don’t miss The Five Stages of Falling In Love by Rachel Higginson. It is a reading experience that will touch your soul.

Author Bio:

Rachel Higginson is the creator of The Star-Crossed Series, Love & Decay Novella Series, The Starbright Series, The Siren Series, Bet on Us and the soon to be released, The Five Stages of Falling in Love! She is also the co-creator of the podcast, “Zach & Rachel Take Over the World.”

She was born and raised in Nebraska, but spent her college years traveling the world. She fell in love with Eastern Europe, Paris, Indian Food and the beautiful beaches of Sri Lanka, but came back home to marry her high school sweetheart. Now she spends her days raising four amazing kids. In the few spare moments she has to herself, she is either reading for hours on end or writing worlds of her own.

Author Page | Twitter | Website | Tumblr

5- Star ARC Review + Character Interview: Falling for Jillian by Kristen Proby

Posted on 01/29/2015 by Saucy Southern Readers

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Booksamillion | Indiebound | iBooks

FALLING FOR JILLIAN Synopsis:

From New York Times bestselling author Kristen Proby comes the third romance in the Love Under the Big Sky series, featuring a veteran struggling with PTSD and the one woman who can help him recover—and learn to love again.

Jillian thought she was a city girl through and through; the fast cars, high fashion, and glamour—she loves it all. But when her ex tells her he’s having a baby with his new wife (after Jillian struggled for years to get pregnant), she hightails it back to Montana to cry on the shoulder of her best friend, Cara.

But in truth, Jillian would rather be comforted by someone else…specifically Zack, Cara’s brother-in-law. Zack is a veteran of the Iraq War who came back to the family ranch to raise his preteen son after the boy’s mother took off. He’s struggling to re-establish a relationship with his son, and warding off the demons of PTSD, which still haunt him. The last thing he needs is bold, brassy Jillian…but why can’t he keep his hands off her?

And don’t forget to read the first book in the Love Under the Big Sky Series…

LOVING CARA

SEDUCING LAUREN

Character Interview

We are so excited that we were given the opportunity to ask Zach and Jillian some burning questions that our readers wanted to know.

Hi Zach! We have just a few quick questions for you and really appreciate you taking the time to talk to us.

When was the first moment you saw Jillian and realized you were attracted to her? Do you remember what your thoughts were in that moment? I was seventeen, and a junior in high school, and she was fifteen. She was my best friend’s younger sister, so I knew that I had to keep my mouth shut, but she was going to the prom with some guy I don’t remember, but she was all done up and for the first time, she looked like a woman and not just a little kid. She knocked me on my ass.

Being a parent and having a relationship is HARD. What are some tricks you and Jillian have learned to keep things *ahem* going? Boy, you’re not kidding! Let’s just say, thank God my kid has friends who invite him over for sleep overs.

What is one thing you wish everyone knew about Jillian? The one word that plagues your mind every time her name is mentioned? Nurturing. That beneath that tough girl exterior is a soft, nurturing, maternal woman. She’s simply amazing.

Hi Jillian! It is soo good to meet you. Thank you for taking the time to answer some questions for us.

What about you Jillian? When was the moment you saw Zack and thought, “Damn…” Oh wait. That might have been what I thought. You get what I’m asking, though, right? Do you remember that moment? Oh, I so know what you’re asking. Zack’s always been hot. Let’s be honest. I had a huge crush on him when I was a kid. But I think it was when I came home for the 4^th of July and he was home and single, at the bar. You’d never know it to look at him, but the man can dance!

Seth and Zack are a packaged deal, obviously. What is one of your favorite moments you’ve had with the two of them? Making cookies with them was so fun. Snowmobiling. But my favorite was Christmas.

What is the one thing that comes to your mind when Zack’s name is mentioned around you? Is there a favorite part of him that you just can’t get enough of? Have you seen the man’s ass? It’s a really spectacular ass.

Kelley’s Review

I was up until 1am. I could not put this one down. I have been looking forward to Zach and Jillian’s story since we met them in Loving Cara. The chemistry between Zach and Jillian is scorching. Kristen weaves a fairytale of two broken souls as they climb their way out of mounds of baggage for a chance to love again.

I loved Zach from the moment I met him in Loving Cara. He took on the task of caring for his estranged son when he got dropped off on his doorstep with so much compassion it brought me to tears. Zach is battling so many demons from his time in the military when he gets reunited with his son and yet he is able to put those demons to rest and concentrate on what really matters. Seth’s behavior shows signs that he was abused by Zach’s ex-wife Kensie. Zach would never know the extent of the abuse if it were not for Jillian.

Jillian and Seth find a common bond as Jillian reveals pieces of her broken childhood to Seth. The two become kindred spirits and Jillian begins to soothe Seth’s soul. The more Zach sees Jillian bond with Seth the deeper he falls in love with her. Jillian and Zach were a lust at first sight couple and seeing their character development was so enchanting. Their wounds begin to heal as their souls find comfort in one another. Jillian made my heart burst with joy. She was so kind and sweet and yet a complete minx with her skin-tight jeans and Jimmy Choos. She keeps Zach on his toes and off-balance most of the time. She is the Yin to Zach’s Yang.

Of course Kristen had me crying big ugly tears when Zach gets some news that he does not handle well and ends up really hurting the ones he loves the most but the end of this story is so sweet that you cant help but smile and be filled with warm fuzzies. 5 big fat stars Kristen Proby!! Bravo on another amazing read.

About Kristen Proby:

New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author Kristen Proby is the author of the bestselling With Me In Seattle and Love Under the Big Sky series. She has a passion for a good love story and strong, humorous characters with a strong sense of loyalty and family. Her men are the alpha type; fiercely protective and a bit bossy, and her ladies are fun, strong, and not afraid to stand up for themselves.

Kristen lives in Montana, where she enjoys coffee, chocolate and sunshine. And naps.

Website ** Twitter ** Facebook ** Author Goodreads ** FALLING FOR JILLIAN Goodreads

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2015 Favorite + 6 Star Reviews for Burned by Karen Marie Moning

Posted on 01/28/2015 by shellbellereads

Burned

Fever Series – Book 7

By Karen Marie Moning

Synopsis

“Mac is back and badder than ever!”—#1 New York Times bestselling author J. R. Ward

MacKayla Lane and Jericho Barrons return in Burned, the latest novel in the blockbuster Fever series from Karen Marie Moning.

It’s easy to walk away from lies. Power is another thing.

MacKayla Lane would do anything to save the home she loves. A gifted sidhe-seer, she’s already fought and defeated the deadly Sinsar Dubh—an ancient book of terrible evil—yet its hold on her has never been stronger.

When the wall that protected humans from the seductive, insatiable Fae was destroyed on Halloween, long-imprisoned immortals ravaged the planet. Now Dublin is a war zone with factions battling for control. As the city heats up and the ice left by the Hoar Frost King melts, tempers flare, passions run red-hot, and dangerous lines get crossed. Seelie and Unseelie vie for power against nine ancient immortals who have governed Dublin for millennia; a rival band of sidhe-seers invades the city, determined to claim it for their own; Mac’s former protégé and best friend, Dani “Mega” O’Malley, is now her fierce enemy; and even more urgent, Highland druid Christian MacKeltar has been captured by the Crimson Hag and is being driven deeper into Unseelie madness with each passing day. The only one Mac can depend on is the powerful, dangerous immortal Jericho Barrons, but even their fiery bond is tested by betrayal.

It’s a world where staying alive is a constant struggle, the line between good and evil is blurred, and every alliance comes at a price. In an epic battle against dark forces, Mac must decide who she can trust, and what her survival is ultimately worth.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / IBooks

Hardcover Book: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Tracey’s Review

The Hoar Frost King has been defeated and the people of Dublin have begun the process of rebuilding their beloved city. But in a city where fae and human co-exist, there is a new normal, and nothing is what it was before.

Two years in the making, the release of BURNED by Karen Marie Moning is finally here, and, oh, my goodness, it is more than worth the wait. Picking up immediately following the action in ICED, this is a read that is everything that fans of the FEVER series could have hoped for and more. Although Karen originally intended to have Dani O’Malley as the focus of the three books written as follow-ups to the original FEVER series, she changed things up with this book. Mac and Barrons, the McKeltars, and the Nine are all a big part of BURNED, and I couldn’t be happier. I started reading and barely put this book down, absolutely enthralled and dying to see what action was going to unfold next. Karen has done an excellent job of answering questions that have had readers anxiously awaiting this next piece of the story (she has, of course, also left us hanging with bated breath for the next part of the saga). Although I had ideas of where these characters and their stories were going, I was surprised at every turn, and in a wonderful way. Seeing all of my favorite characters again, and learning more about them and the secrets that they hold, was absolute magic. I absolutely cannot wait for FEVERBORN and FEVERSONG, the last two books in this fantastic series. Can I recommend this book and series more highly? No. I give BURNED six stars, and put it on the list of my best reads of 2015.

Robin’s Review

Really. If I could give Burned 10 stars, I would. It’s Karen Marie Moning’s best work yet, and I found myself wondering at the complexity and brilliance of her writing. Burned is thoroughly addictive and extremely hard to put down. I laughed and cheered and smiled and cried tears!

There are huge reveals in Burned, including epic moments which pack a punch! I was thrilled to have many of my older questions about the Fever series answered. Since finishing, I have also enjoyed pinpointing Moning’s specialty in the text: subtle clues and foreshadowing which have left me with an abundance of new questions about the characters and a feverish desire to discuss Burned with others. This newest chapter of the Fever series exceeded my hopes and expectations, and before I even finished, I knew Burned would become one of my all-time favorite novels! If you haven’t read the Fever series, I encourage you to pick up a copy of the first novel titled Darkfever!

Robin from Smut Book Junkie Reviews was lucky to win a VIP pass to the Burned Signing on January 24, 2015 in Cincinnati, Ohio. This was a celebration event for long awaited release of Burned by Karen Marie Moning. The fans came out in masses. J R Ward helped Karen celebrate her best selling release.

Congratulations Karen Marie Moning…. Burned has taken the reader world by fire and the readers are consumed in the flames.

About Karen Marie Moning

Karen Marie Moning (rhymes with ‘awning’) is a # 1 New York Times bestselling author of 15 novels, including the RITA award-winning Highlander novels and the internationally bestselling urban fantasy “Fever” series. Her books have been published in nearly 40 languages, and her events draw fans from all over the world.

Moning graduated from Purdue University with a Bachelor’s degree in Society and Law. Before becoming a full-time writer, she worked as a bartender, a computer consultant, and an insurance specialist.

Moning began her career writing paranormal romance set in Scotland but as she became increasingly fascinated with Celtic mythology, she switched genres to Urban Fantasy and location to Dublin, Ireland, so she could focus on the Tuatha de Danann, or Fae–an ancient race of immortal beings who have lived secretly among humans for millennia.

Moning recently completed a graphic novel for Del Rey, featuring an original story about MacKayla Lane and Jericho Barrons, and the first installment in a new Fever World trilogy, ICED. She is under contract with Random House Publishing for two additional books set in the Fever universe.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Traveling Man by Jane Harvey-Berrick -2015 Favorite + 6 Star Review + Giveaway

Posted on 01/28/2015 by shellbellereads

Traveling Man

The Traveling Duet Series – Book 1

By Jane Harvey-Berrick

Synopsis

I was ordinary. Nice.

He was extraordinary. And he wasn’t always nice.

Moody and difficult, brilliant and beautiful, Kes scared me and he protected me. He could be incredibly hurtful and incredibly thoughtful. He wasn’t perfect, but he was perfect for me. He challenged me, he took me out of my safe little box and showed me the world could be magnificent. He was everything I wasn’t.”

* * * *

Aimee Anderson is ten when the traveling carnival first comes to her nice little town. She doesn’t expect her world to change so completely. But meeting Kestrel Donohue puts her life on a different path.

Even though she only sees him for the two weeks of the year when he passes through her home town, his friendship is the most important of her life. As a child’s friendship grows to adult love, the choices become harder, and both Kes and Aimee realize that two weeks a year will never be enough…

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Excerpt

He’d grown taller. Not as tall as his grandfather yet, but nearly as tall as my father. His shoulders were wider and I could see his biceps pushing through his ragged t-shirt, but he was still on the thin side, wiry, I guess. He looked stunning, like he should be in a boy band—you know, the bad one that makes all the parents fear for their daughters’ virginity.

I watched him out of the corner of my eye as I turned to study the competition. I had to admit it wasn’t looking good. The girl was taller than me and wore a low cut tank top that showcased a lot of cleavage. Her boobs were no better than mine, I decided—there was just more of them on show. So whereas I looked safe, nice you might say, she looked dangerous. Her arms were covered in colorful tattoos, her ears pierced five or six times each, and she had silver rings through her lip and eyebrow. Her face was hard, but beautiful, even caked in makeup.

I guessed she was maybe two or three years older than me, it was hard to tell.

As if she felt my gaze on her, she swung toward me, her eyes blazing.

“No rubes back here!” she yelled. “Get the fuck out!”

I was shocked that a complete stranger would speak to me like that. I froze, my eyes darting to Kes. He turned to look at me, his frown of annoyance changing to a warm smile.

“Chill, Sorcha,” he muttered. “The shrimp’s a friend.”

I wanted to laugh. I wanted to cry. He was pleased to see me, but so dismissive. I stood there with my mouth hanging open. And then I was in Kes’s arms, breathing in the scent of sweat and soap and something like fresh hay that was so familiar.

“Hey, kid! How you doing?” he said, as he led me away.

His voice had deepened. No longer childlike, it was a light, pleasant tenor.

“Don’t call me kid!” I snapped, punching his shoulder.

He laughed and rubbed the spot where I’d hit him. His dimple popped out and I wished I’d hit him harder—then kissed him better.

“Okay, not a kid,” he smiled, but then I watched his eyes darken as they drifted down my body, pausing at my chest, then doing a slow sweep along my legs and hips. “No, not a kid,” he said again, and this time his voice was gruffer.

Michel’s Review

This book was brought to my attention while I was signing up for another blog tour. The cover caught my attention. When I read the synopsis for the book I knew I wanted to read this book. When the ARC was delivered to my kindle I had to start the book immediately. From the very first page I was hooked. I could not put the book down. I was mesmerized by the characters and their story. After I finished the book the I could not stop thinking about it. It was such a special, magical kind of story that captured my heart and imagination. Traveling Man was a 6 star book and made the 2015 Favorite List.

Imagine living in rural America, in a very small town where nothing ever happens. A town that is full of simple minded people and ordinary life. A town where excitement is non existent. Then one day a caravan of huge trucks rolls through town stirring up the dust. These trucks are not just passing through, they are stopping at an old abandoned farm. They are bringing a magical world to this small town. The carnival has arrived. Magic is in the air. The excitement level has escalated from zero to ten. For two weeks this sensation is going to breath life into this small world.

Aimee Anderson is celebrating her tenth birthday. She has been granted a special wish. She can celebrate her birthday anywhere she wants. She has watched the trucks roll through town. She knows the only thing she wants is to feel the magic the trucks have brought to her small world. She wants to go to the carnival.

Her birthday wish is granted and she is going to the carnival. She could of never imagined that the one wish would give her the most precious gift of a lifetime. She has been given the gift of a life long friendship and ever lasting love from a boy that ispart of that magical world. She has been given Kes Donohue, the boy extraordinaire. For two weeks every year, she will get to leave her ordinary world in the background and become a part of the world that Kes belongs to. For two weeks every year she will experience friendship, magic, excitement, and love.

Kes and Aimee come from two completely different worlds. Her world is structured. Aimee is smart and lives in a world of books. She has a stable home, a predictable family, and a predictable life. Kes lives in an RV. He travels the country throughout the year. He doesn’t attend school. His family consists of his grandfather, his older brother, their pet monkey, and fellow carnie friends. At a young age he became a showman and dare devil. There are not many children in his world and he has no friends. When he sees Aimee at the carnival absorbing all the wonders that most people don’t see, he knows he wants to share his world with her. He wants Aimee to share her world with him.

These two ten year old children form a deep friendship in less than two weeks. Their families are reluctant to allow the friendship because of how different their worlds are. Both families will see that this friendship is special and is beneficial for both the children. With reluctance they will allow this friendship to flourish.

Kes and Aimee will spend two weeks every summer together for six years. They will grow from children to young adults. They will change throughout the years. They will discover new feelings that are much deeper than their friendship. They will discover love.

Their sixteenth summer will bring their friendship to a halt. Their hearts will be broken and their lives torn apart. It will be the end of their magic.

For eight years Aimee and Kes will be traveling on new paths in their lives. They will become adults and begin new careers. They will be in control of their own destinies. They have both changed drastically. They are no longer the children with wonder in their eyes. That is until the magic hits them once again… their paths will cross once more. Can they bring their two separate worlds together and create the magic once again?

Traveling Man was mesmerizing. I love books where the readers get to experience the characters coming of age. Experiencing the characters go from childhood innocence to the angsty teenager and finally the full grown adult is like watching yourself grow through the pages. Being able to experience that first kiss and first love is magical.

Jane Harvey- Berrick captured the world of the carnival. Throughout the book I felt like I was right there with the characters. I could feel the smallness of Aimee’s world. I could feel the electricity in the air. I could smell the hotdogs in the air, I could taste the funnel cakes, and I could feel the excitement like it was electricity in my bones. I became a part of the book. She also brought her characters to life and the reader felt every emotional moment.

I absolutely loved Traveling Man! I cannot wait for the next book.

_______________________________________________________________

About Jane Harvey- Berrick

I lived in London for over 10 years and have a love affair with New York. It’s only since I have moved to the countryside, that the words have really begun to flow.

I live in a small village by the ocean and walk my little dog, Pip, every day. It’s on those beachside walks that I have all my best ideas.

Writing has become a way of life – and one that I love to share.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Giveaway

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ARC Review: Don’t Deny Me: Part 3 by Megan Hart – The Final Book

Posted on 01/27/2015 by shellbellereads

Don’t Deny Me : Part 3

The Final Book in Series

By Megan Hart

Synopsis

Have the flames finally gone out—or will they burn brighter than ever before?
Part Three of Don’t Deny Me, the new e-serial from bestselling author Megan Hart.
Mick is determined to be the kind of man who is worthy of Alice…and vows to hold on to her and never let go. But can people, and relationships, really change? If Alice does decide to let him back into her heart—and into her bed—will Mick be ready to show her the man that he’s become…and take a chance on love? And can Alice ever trust him again?

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Michel’s Review

This is the final book in the Don’t Deny Me trilogy by Megan Hart. It is clear that Mick and Alice still love one another. Their passion for one another is not the problem. Even though they are deeply in love and moving forward, it is clear that they are falling into old behaviors and patterns.

What it all boils down to is a problem that all couples experience at some time or another. The problem is communication. It is hard know what is going on in each other’s minds without verbally expressing it in a clear, concisive way. Neither person should assume anything.

Can Mick and Alice get past their problems and finally learn to really talk to one another. Can they learn to express their true feelings.

It is a journey that both will have to stumble on. In the long run it will be well worth the effort. Mick and Alice will find their happiness once again.

Megan Hart taps into some internal flaws that most of us possess. She allows her characters to fall down and she allows them to fail. She also teaches them it’s okay to be human. It’s okay to have flaws. It is about learning how to utilize those flaws into a more positive view.

Megan is a superb writer. The emotional depth of her stories that is mixed with the sensual heat has readers coming back for more.

Don’t miss the Don’t Deny Me Trilogy.

Don’t Deny Me: Part Two

Part Two of A Novel In Three Parts

By Megan Hart

Synopsis

They had it all—until he broke her heart…
Part Two of Don’t Deny Me, the new e-serial novel from bestselling author Megan Hart.
From the moment he sees the girl in the green dress across the room, Mick is spellbound. He knows she’s too much, too good, more than he deserves…but he’s also sure that Alice is worth everything he’s got. So why is it that the more he tries, the more he seems to fail? Mick can’t figure out where he’s gone wrong. Alice needs something that he still can’t figure out how to give. And when it matters most, will Mick find a way to be there when she falls? The only thing he knows for sure is that he’s not going to lose Alice without a fight. . .

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Alice and Mick’s story continues. In Part One we were introduced to Alice and Mick. They had been lovers ten years previous to present time. Their relationship was toxic and ended badly. They had not seen each other in ten years. When they meet once again, the intense chemistry and sexual attraction is still there. It is clear that these two have not had closure to their passionate relationship. Can they find the closure they need to move on or do they start again?

In Part Two, Megan Hart takes the reader back to the beginning of Alice and Mick’s relationship. The reader gets to experience their first meeting and how it led to their all consuming passion for one another.

This book will take the reader from the exciting newness of their relationship to the toxic ending.

This book had my heart breaking for both Alice and Mick. It is clear that they love each other beyond words. But their problem is one that has plagued most couples throughout time. Communication. Neither Mick or Alice are without blame. They both made mistakes where their relationship was concerned. They both did not give each other one hundred percent honesty. They did not clearly express their feelings until it became explosive and beyond repair. Both have regrets.

Through the letters the reader will experience the pain, the anger, the loss, and the deep abiding love they share.

Alice and Mick have something special. Something that only happens once in a lifetime. Can they learn from their past and make a future together.

This book has me completely invested in their relationship. I am hoping that Alice and Mick will make it work.

I can’t wait for the third and final book. Don’t Deny Me: Part 3 will release on January 27, 2015.

Don’t Deny Me

Part One- A Full Length Novel in Three Parts

By Megan Hart

Synopsis

He’s back, and the heat between them cannot be denied…
Part One of Don’t Deny Me, the passionate new e-serial novel from bestselling author Megan Hart.
Alice and Mick had it all: the happy days, the heartfelt evenings, the hot, slow nights. But Mick couldn’t give her what she needed, and in a moment of crisis, they lost everything. Torn apart, Alice tries to pry him out of her life and move on—until a not-so-chance meeting at an old friend’s party brings them face-to-face once more. Now they’re talking again, Alice can’t escape the burning in her chest whenever he’s near, the way his eyes still follow her around the room…but she won’t repeat the mistakes of her past. Passion alone is nothing to build a life on. Or is it?

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Don’t Deny Me Serial- a novel split in three parts by Megan Hart is one of those serials you don’t want to miss. It is a story of uninhibited passion, emotional depth, honest insights into the human psyche, and the perfect portrayal of what the true meaning of love is.

I have read all three parts to the Don’t Deny Me serial and can honestly say it was quite an emotional reading experience. Megan Hart has a true gift of creating characters that are very real and easy for the reader to relate to. Her writing is flawless and flows with a very effortless smooth transition in each passage. She has the gift of digging deep into the minds and emotions of her characters and presents their whole persona to the readers without causing the reader to instant love or hate them. She gives them a natural balance that all readers can understand and grasp.

Megan Hart is a pioneer author in angsty, emotional, and extremely erotic books. She was giving us the “true grit” , “emotional angst”, and “sinfully steamy romances” long before the 50 Shades of Grey frenzy took readers by storm and made them want more than a fluffy romance. Megan Hart is a superb writer and a master of her craft.

Don’t Deny Me- Part One begins with Alice going for a weekend anniversary party of old time friends. She has not seen her friends in ten years. After her toxic breakup with Mick, she couldn’t bear to be around their old friends or him. She dropped out of their social circles and moved on in her life. She figures that ten years has gone by and she has come to terms with how her life has progressed. She has led a pretty fulfilling and happy life. She has had more than enough time to heal and forgive. She’s ready to reconnect with her old friends once again. A weekend anniversary party is the perfect way to reconnect. She knows that Mick will be attending the party as well. She feels that time has given her maturity, wisdom, self respect, insightfulness, compassion, and the gift of learning how to forgive. She will never forget the emotional roller coaster relationship she once had with Mick. She will also never forget the toxic ending. But she can forgive Mick because she now realizes that she is just as responsible for the hurt and pain their relationship caused.

The one thing Alice didn’t count on was the immediate and irresistible attraction she still feels towards Mick. She realizes that although their relationship ended, she is still very much in love with Mick. Mick also has the same reactions to Alice.

Can these two forgive each other, learn from the past to move forward? Is there a second chance for their love to fully bloom or will it end in brutal emotional destruction? Or do they have a weekend fling and remember the best parts of their relationship?

Don’t Deny Me – Part One reveals the emotional devastation that both Alice and Mick went through when their relationship ended. It also shows that very clearly that Mick and Alice are still deeply in love with another. Through letters from their breakup to the present day weekend affair , the readers quickly become invested in Alice and Mick’s relationship.

Don’t Deny Me- Part One ends on a cliffhanger that is about to reveal their complete past. It has readers anxious to see where they started and how they ended up in the situation they are now living.

This was a very raw and emotional read. Don’t Deny Me – Part Two will be out in one week. There is not a long wait for the next part of Alice and Mick’s story.

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About Megan Hart

Megan Hart has written in almost every genre of romantic fiction, including historical, contemporary, romantic suspense, romantic comedy, futuristic, fantasy and perhaps most notably, erotic. She also writes non-erotic fantasy and science fiction, as well as continuing to occasionally dabble in horror.

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Saucy Southern Readers

professional, honest, and timely book reviews

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