Release Day Blitz + Review + Giveaway: Bad Son Rising by Julie A. Richman

Posted on 09/15/2014 by shellbellereads

Bad Son Rising

The Needing More Series- Book 4

By Julie A. Richman

Blurb:

People think I’m a douche.

And maybe I am.

I use most people.

It’s what I know.

But if I love you,

I’d die for you.

I just don’t know that I’m worth loving.

Handsome, privileged bad boy Zac Moore has always played by his own rules – at school, in business, with women. He’s rewritten the rules to suit his own needs and his needs are all that matter.

Serious and focused family friend Liliana Castillo has one goal. Leave the pre-Med program at Yale to help people in developing nations.

As their paths cross and uncross, a tale of love, agony, betrayal and growth is woven, transforming two people who’ve hidden from relationships and love.

This is a stand-alone novel.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Excerpt:

“Lils, I don’t know that I’m great boyfriend material. I’m used to being a dick. It’s what I know.” He was hoping she’d say something, but she didn’t. “But I would want it to be different with you. You’re not a drive-by. And I don’t really know how to do the other stuff. But you make me want it. You make me want to try.”

Sweeping her hair to one side, he buried his face in her neck.

Finally, she spoke, “Are you saying this to me because we’re stuck here? Because if you are, don’t. I don’t want a one night stand with you, Zac.”

Letting his teeth graze the soft skin of her neck, he felt her shiver, “I don’t want a one night stand with you either and with my track record I know that may be hard to believe. And of course the one girl I want to believe it, doesn’t.” Pulling his mouth away from her delicious tasting neck, he rested his chin on her shoulder.

“Ok, I’ve got nothing to lose here,” he began. “The weekend we met, all I wanted to do was make you notice me,” he laughed, “and you didn’t even know that I was alive. I wanted to make you smile, Lils. Isn’t that crazy. I just wanted to make you smile.”

Turning herself fully within the circle of his arm, she was on her knees facing him, “You wanted to make me smile?”

He nodded.

“I was so miserable. I just wanted to be over here. I didn’t want to be back at Yale.” Surprising him, she placed her hands on his cheeks, “And you wanted to make me smile?”

He nodded again.

And there it was, beautiful and elusive, and Zac could feel his emotions rising dangerously close to the surface. Liliana Castillo had a heart stopping smile and the only thing he could do was return it with one of his own.

Michel’s Review

I have been reading the Needing Moore series from the very first day Julie released Searching For Moore. I was blown away by the characters and their story. I needed more and became addicted to this series. Julie A. Richman delivered a mature romance that spans over twenty years. From the beautiful young love romance to the painful separation that spanned over twenty years, the readers experienced an emotional story. The entire series touched on some very realistic situations and realities that most people experience at some point in their lives or they know someone who has. By allowing her characters to experience these realities it made the series much more credible and personal to the readers. One of those realities was the rebellious teenage son. The son that objected to his parents divorce and acted out in the most horrific ways to prevent the divorce. He almost killed his father’s girlfriend in a fit of anger. The readers absolutely loathed this kid. It was impossible to believe that this kid could be redeemed and become a human being people actually liked. But Julie wielded her magic pen and as the series evolved we got to see this young man slowly begin to turn around. By the end of the trilogy we were astounded that he had come so far but were still a bit leery of trusting the changes. She gave us some insight into some of his other issues outside his parents separation and new lives. Now the readers are going to meet the real Zac Moore in Bad Son Rising.

I was sucked into Zac Moore’s story in the very first paragraph. As Bad Son Rising begins, Zac has now graduated from high school and is now in college. He has established a good relationship with his father’s new wife. He adores his younger brother and sister. He has become a part of the new family unit instead of being a hostile outsider. He recognizes the true meaning of love and what real happiness really means. He is happy that his father has finally found his true happiness. While Zac is in a better place mentally than he was in his earlier teen years, he is still not one hundred percent happy. He appears to be this over confident, smart, good looking young man with a bright future ahead of him. Beneath the surface, Zach has some low self esteem issues that have made him feel unlovable. He has suffered sexual abuse in his early years and has found that sex is mere act to deflect from his insecurities. He’s never had a real steady girlfriend or relationship. He doesn’t really date, he just has sex. He has not learned to trust others with the true Zach that hides within. Only a few friends have had a glimpse of who he really is.

When he meets Liliana Castillo his views on love and life begin to change. For the first time he wants to be the giver in a relationship rather than the taker. For the first time he wants to show someone he can be a better man. For the first time he is letting the real Zac out of his cage.

In Bad Son Rising we will witness Zac go from a party college boy to a brilliant engineering student. We will see his loyalty to his friends and family. We will witness his screw ups and mistakes. We will watch him take responsibility of his actions and life. We will watch him fall in love and make ultimate sacrifices for the woman he loves. In the end we will see a noble young man that has earned respect and love.

I feel like a parent or aunt that is so proud of their child. Zac Moore is very dear to my heart and I think I am just as proud of him as Schooner Moore is. As I finished this book I had tingly goosebumps all over.

Thank you Julie for giving us The Bad Son Rising. We have embraced Zac into our hearts. We are so proud of the man he has become!

Author Julie A. Richman is a native New Yorker living deep in the heart of Texas. A creative writing major in college, reading and writing fiction has always been a passion. Julie began her corporate career in publishing in NYC and writing played a major role throughout her career as she created and wrote marketing, advertising, direct mail and fundraising materials for Fortune 500 corporations, advertising agencies and non-profit organizations. She is an award winning nature photographer plagued with insatiable wanderlust. Julie and her husband have one son and a white German Shepherd named Juneau.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Pinterest

Needing Moore Trilogy

One Sale For A Limited Time

Only $ 3.99

Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes & Noble

All three Bestselling, Top-Rated Books from The Needing Moore Trilogy by USA Today Bestseller Julie A. Richman, PLUS never before seen BONUS CHAPTERS for each book.

SEARCHING FOR MOORE – Book 1

MOORE TO LOSE – Book 2

MOORE THAN FOREVER – Book 3

Giveaway

Kindle Paperwhite

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/share-code/MDk5NjRmMDM5ZDM4YTBjYWM0YzAyYzM0NGI2ODRhOjQ1MQ==/

Reasonable Doubt Series by Whitney G. – Reasonable Doubt Series vs. Smut Book Junkie Reviews

Posted on 09/04/2014 by shellbellereads

Reasonable Doubt Series

By Whitney G.

Reasonable Doubt Series vs. Smut Book Junkie Reviews

Case: Reasonable Doubt Series by Whitney G. vs. Smut Book Junkie Reviews

CASE FILE

(Case File: The court file containing papers submitted in a case.)

Reasonable Doubt Volume 1-Volume 3

Smut Book Junkie Review of Volume 1 –Volume 3

Deposition from Michel Reinhard

Deposition from Kelley Hawthorne Jefferson

Deposition from Whitney Garcia Williams

Deposition from Andrew Hamilton

Deposition from Aubrey Everhart

ACTION

Action: Also called a case or lawsuit. A civil judicial proceeding where one party sues another for a wrong done, or to protect a right or to prevent a wrong.

Smut Book Junkie Reviews vs. Reasonable Doubt Series by Whitney G.

Smut Book Junkie Reviews is alleging that the Reasonable Doubt Series by Whitney G. caused addiction, emotional fluctuation, and sensual stimulation. They are trying to prove beyond Reasonable Doubt that this series has earned a 5 Star rating and delivered an emotional literary experience. The Reasonable Doubt Series has led readers to experience reading addiction, release date trauma and anxiety, and undying love for a self-serving prick, Andrew Hamilton. The emotional trauma this man put Aubrey Everhart through had readers thoroughly appalled. The readers had high hopes that Aubrey would prove beyond a shadow of a doubt that Andrew Hamilton needed to be punished for the crimes of the heart and that justice would be served.

Plaintiff: Smut Book Junkie Reviews

Defendant: Reasonable Doubt Series by Whitney G.

Witnesses:

Expert Witness– Reviewer Michel Reinhard- Smut Book Junkie Reviewer

Expert Witness– Kelley Hawthorne Jefferson- Smut Book Junkie Reviewer

Witness– Andrew Hamilton- Attorney, Alpha, Leading Male fictional character

Witness– Aubrey Everhart- Law Student, Law Intern, Ballerina, Leading Female fictional character.

Expert Witness– Whitney G. – Author and Creator of Reasonable Doubt Series

TESTIMONIES

Testimony: Something that someone says especially in a court of law while formally promising to tell the truth. Proof or evidence that something exists or is true

Reasonable Doubt 1

Michel Reinhard:

Reasonable Doubt 1 is one hot, erotic book! The writing was superb! It was clever, snarky, funny, delicious, mysterious and intensely erotic. The characters were compelling.

Attorney Andrew Hamilton makes Christian Grey, Gideon Cross, Colton Donavan, and James Cavendish look like amateurs. He makes no apologies for how he is.

Aubrey Everhart is a pre-law student and ballerina. Aubrey becomes an intern at Andrew’s law firm. Andrew can’t keep his hands off of her. It is a battle of wills, an erotic battle, and only one victor. Both have secrets that can tear this fragile relationship into an all out war.

As this tumultuous relationship progresses, it will become even more disastrous. A revelation will be made that will expose Andrew’s

secrets. This volume ends on a monstrous cliffhanger.

Kelley Hawthorne Jefferson:

Wow! Reasonable Doubt 1 was so hot my e-reader about melted. What are the chances that you would meet the man in real life that you have only ever talked to online? What person is the real you? The persona you created when you never thought you would meet in person or the person you are here and now.

I loved watching Andrew try to figure out what he should do next and Aubrey did not put up with his crap for one second. Her snark and wit had me laughing as I turned the pages.

RD1 left us on a spicy high note with a twist that had us stalking Whitney’s FB page waiting for her to give us just a little taste of RD2.

Andrew Hamilton:

One dinner. One Night. No repeats.

Our conversations were long over. There was nothing more we had to discuss.

We talked. We fucked. That was the end of us.

“It’s a case of a woman who befriended me online, but she turned out to be someone completely different than who she told me she was. So, in this case, how do you feel about reasonable doubt?”

Aubrey Everhart:

“Dear Mr. Hamilton, F*ckYou.”

Whitney G:

I’m forever grateful for you and your time, and I hope to be re-invited to your bookshelf with my next release.

Reasonable Doubt 2

TESTIMONIES

Michel Reinhard

I devoured this book the moment it was downloaded. WOW…what a wild ride! Not only was this installment in the Reasonable Doubt serial extremely erotic, it was also intense. The plot escalated beyond the reader’s expectations and ended on a cliffhanger that left a knot in your stomach. It left the reader with sympathy for Andrew. It gave us an understanding why he is an absolute prick. But what it doesn’t reveal is what happened. That will be in the next installment. I am positive that all of those who have read this installment want the next installment now!

Andrew and Aubrey are complicated characters. Andrew is the type of character that you really don’t want to like. He doesn’t treat Aubrey all that well but it’s obvious he is delusional about his real feelings. Once his secrets begin to unravel we see a completely different person. Aubrey, on the other hand, is compelling. She is a strong woman. She fights for what she wants and doesn’t back down. She has a lot to give. It’s unfortunate that those who should care about her only want to take from her. They don’t care if she has to make sacrifices that will cost her dreams and her heart. I wanted smack down Andrew, her parents, and those who were treating her badly. I am hoping that Aubrey will come out the victor and that all her dreams will come true.

I could not wait for Reasonable Doubt Volume 3 to release.

Kelley Hawthorne Jefferson:

I was up until 1:30 am when RD2 hit my kindle. I mean how in the hell was Andrew going to explain what happened at the end of RD1. What was really exciting about this series is that Whitney kept Andrew with his same true colors throughout the book. He was a character that you hated. He was hot, sexy, alpha, and broody and you wanted him to tear off your clothes and at the same time you wanted to slap him across the face. I was dying to figure out what the hell made Andrew such a jerk.

Aubrey was going through so much as it was trying to make her dream happen that everyone told her never would. She was not good enough for anyone including her parents, her teachers, and the man who unfortunately, she was falling in love with. She really read Andrew wrong and once he showed his true colors again she did not have much of a choice. It was do or die time and she was on her own.

When I finished RD2 I was saying a prayer for Andrew. I was praying for redemption and for him to pull his head out of his ass before it was too late.

Andrew Hamilton:

I was officially done with this monogamous game we’d been playing for the past couple weeks. It was quite fun-different, but since Aubrey could never be mine and I could never be hers, it quite fucking pointless too.

Aubrey Everhart:

You are a disgusting and vile asshole, and I honestly regret ever sleeping with you.

“Seeing as I’m the only one between us who actually feels anything, yes. Yes, that is how I really feel about you.”

“This is the last time you’ll ever pull this hot and cold shit on me.”

Everything we had was built on lies…

Whitney G:

**End of Episode 2**

Reasonable Doubt Volume 3

TESTIMONIES

Michel Reinhard:

Reasonable Doubt Volume 3 went way beyond the readers expectations. Whitney G delivered a grand finale that readers are going to more than satisfied with.

The tumultuous relationship between Aubrey and Andrew has clearly come to a conclusion. The closing arguments were delivered. The jury deliberated from page one to the very last word. The final conclusion and verdict were unanimous. The verdict was that Whitney G. and her Reasonable Doubt series had earned a 5 star review based upon the facts, the evidence, and proof beyond Reasonable Doubt.

The alleged addiction, emotional trauma , sensual expectations, and release date anxiety were clearly the readers reactions. Whitney G. did her job as a writer and delivered an outstanding literary experience.

Kelley Hawthorne Jefferson:

This is where you turn the pages slowly and relish each moment as it will be the last time you get to spend time with Andrew and Aubrey and learn anything new about what is going on in their lives. I think Whitney G. gave us a beautiful end to a very dark emotional rollercoaster ride and delivered the best Andrew and Aubrey there could be. I as well as several other readers will never accept this as the end and will beg Whitney mercilessly to write another chapter. This series was filled with just the right amount of spice, snark, wit, sexual tension, and angst to earn a Five Star Review by the Smut Book Junkies. Whitney G. will forever have a place in our heart, mind, body, and spirit as well as a special place on our e-readers. When people ask for reading recommendations the Reasonable Doubt Series will be on the tip of our tongue and at the top of our list. Bravo Ms. Gracia Williams on a job well done!

Andrew Hamilton:

“We’re more than friends…We always were. I just can’t be with you now.”

I’ll just replace the word ‘one’ with more…

Aubrey Everhart:

I liked you as “Thoreau,” but I love you as Andrew.

Whitney G.

** End of Episode 3**

FINDING

Finding: The court’s or jury’s decision on issues of fact.

The court has found that Whitney G. did her job as an author and delivered a literary experience that earned a 5 STAR Review for the complete Reasonable Doubt Series. Whitney G. developed charismatic characters whose behaviors and emotions captured the reader’s attention. Their story may have caused emotional angst, release date trauma, and reading addiction. That proves beyond Reasonable Doubt that Whitney G. did her job as an author and upheld her responsibility to deliver an unforgettable reading experience.

The court also finds that Andrew Hamilton was indeed an obnoxious prick with just cause. Andrew Hamilton will be placed on house arrest under the supervision of Aubrey Everhart until the court deems that he has paid for his crimes of the heart.

Aubrey Everhart will be awarded Andrew Hamilton’s heart with the contingency of a lifetime of devotion.

Smut Book Junkie will pay restitution to Whitney G. by awarding her a 5 Star Review for the Reasonable Doubt Series. Smut Book Junkie will also award the Reasonable Doubt Series the acknowledgment of a 2014 Favorite Read.

The court also recommends that readers purchase this series for an outstanding literary experience.

My cock has an appetite.

A huge and very particular appetite: Blonde, curvy, and preferably not a fucking liar…(Although, that’s a story for another day.)

As a high profile lawyer, I don’t have time to waste on relationships, so I fulfill my needs by anonymously chatting and sleeping with women I meet online.

My rules are simple: One dinner. One night. No repeats.

This is only casual sex. Nothing more. Nothing less.

At least it was, until “Alyssa”…

She was supposed to be a 27 year old lawyer, a book hoarder, and completely unattractive. She was supposed to be someone I shared law advice with late at night, someone I could trust with details of my weekly escapades.

But then she came into my firm for an interview–a college-intern interview, and everything fucking changed…

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

She lied to me…

She betrayed the one rule that I’m most adamant about: Honesty. Complete and utter fucking honesty.

I really wish she was someone else—someone who didn’t have the ability to make me feel, someone I could easily discard like the hundreds of women before her.

She isn’t.

I’m drawn to her like I’ve never been drawn to a woman before—completely captivated by the very sight of her. But unfortunately, with my past slowly re-surfacing for all of the world to see, I’ll have to find a way to let her go.

She can never be mine.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

I hate him…

I hate that I fell in love with him, I hate that he didn’t love me back, and I hate the fact that I just made a life-altering decision just so I could get the hell away from him.

He’d always said that he was unchangeable, heartless, and cold…

I really should’ve believed him…

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Pre-Order Complete Series: Amazon

Author Bio:

A self diagnosed candy addict, travel junkie, and hypochondriac, Whitney Gracia Williams LOVES to write about characters that make you laugh, cry, and want to (in the case of Selena Ross) reach through your Kindle and slap them.

She is the “imaginary bestselling” author of the Jilted Bride Series, Mid Life Love, Wasted Love, and Captain of My Soul.

When she’s not locked inside her room, feverishly typing away on her laptop, she can be found here:

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Release Day Blitz + 6- Star Review + Giveaway: Captured by Jasinda and Jack Wilder

Posted on 08/12/2014 by shellbellereads

Captured

World of Wounded Novels

By Jasinda and Jack Wilder

Synopsis:

You go into combat, you fear death. It’s what keeps you careful, keeps you alive. I’ve faced death more times than I can count. I’ve taken bullets. I’ve taken lives.

But nothing can prepare me for the soul-crushing terror of being captured.

***

I married a Marine. I knew the risks. Every time my husband shipped out, I knew there was a chance he wouldn’t come back. But Thomas always did. Always. Then one day two officers in full dress uniform knocked on my door and shattered my world.

How do you keep going when you lose what made life worth living?

***This is a full length, stand-alone contemporary romance, set in the world of WOUNDED**

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Michel’s Review

***6 STAR SALUTE ***

*** 2014 FAVORITE READ ***

*** Captured is a POWERFUL Book ***

Jack and Jasinda Wilder deserve a standing ovation for Captured ! It is a phenomenal reading experience!

Captured is one of those books that will engage all of your sensory factors, emotionally and physically. This book renders every emotion with a poignant, brutally honest insight into the human psyche. The explicit descriptions throughout the book will have the readers feeling the physical pain, the adrenaline highs and lows, the surreal feel of the environmental surroundings from the temperature to the geographical elements, the smells and tastes from those surroundings, and the pure physical joy of the ‘feel good’ moments.

Captured is written from duo POV’s throughout a three-year period. The reader experiences Derek West’s traumatic experience in the war arena and his re- introduction back into society. His journey will touch your soul.

From Reagan Barrett’s POV the readers will experience the emotional chaos that comes from loving a career Marine. They will see the strengths, weaknesses, and heartrending trials loved ones go through on the home front.

Derek and Reagan have traveled an emotionally tortuous road. Their journey is heartbreaking with a multitude of trials and tribulations. Along the journey they will discover the true meaning of love. Their final destination is one of peace and pure happiness.

Captured not only highlights the horrors of the war front, it also spotlights the pure joy of finding love. The sexual chemistry and romance between Derek and Reagan is smoldering.

From the war arena to the home front….one letter will touch the soul.

This one letter will

Give Hope
Give Peace In Death
Motivate one to Live
Bring the dawning of new life
Evoke guilt
Demonstrate the power of forgiveness
Bring people together to form a new family unit
Give second chances
Reconnect old friendships
Reaffirm Life

One letter will touch many lives.

The written word is powerful!

Captured showcases just how powerful the written word is!

Jack and Jasinda Wilder have Captured that power!

Kelley’s Review

Your heart, mind, body, and soul will be Captured…

Wow! What an amazing read. I could not put it down. Jasinda and Jack truely captured what life is like after love, loss, heartache, and pain. The lives that Marine Corps families live are not easy. Marines are deployed everyday and their wives do everything they can to show them the love and support they need, while keeping themselves so busy that they don’t have to think about the dangers their husbands are facing. I know what this feels like because I was the wife of a Marine and it is the hardest thing I have ever had to do in my entire life. He was deployed for 6-months while I went to school and worked three jobs to keep my mind off of what he was facing. The letters are the one thing that kept me going. I wrote to him every other day and when I would get a letter back it would be like time stood still and I would read those letters over and over again until the ink began to fade. Every night before I went to bed I read the letters and every morning when I woke up. I needed him with me and that is how I made it work. The letters in this story are heart-wrenching and full of love and devotion. Jasinda and Jack did their research and gave us something so beautiful, and so real that is brought tears to my eyes. It took me back 20 years ago when I was writing those letters. But, enough about me.

Reagan and Derek are two lonely souls that have been ravaged by war and loss. Both are dealing with shell shock. Reagan just can’t do it again. She can’t take the risk that her heart with be irrevocably broken and Derek is seriously wounded mentally after being a prisoner of war. He is skittish and easily startled. The journey to recovery for Derek is painful, emotionally and physically. His return to civilian life is toilsome as he has to conquer his demons everyday.

Reagan Barrett is tough. She is a widow and has been running her husband’s family farm on her own for the past ten years, all while being a single mom. She has the amazing support of her neighbors Hank and Ida who have become her extended family. Reagan has buried the idea that she will ever fall in love again.

When Derek West shows up on her doorstep all of the feelings she has buried start to come to life and Derek ignites a passion in her that she never knew existed. The chemistry between Derek and Reagan is off the charts, HOT.

Will these two broken souls be able to recover from all the wounds that war has inflicted upon them and find their happlily ever after? You will have to read Captured to find out.

Thank you Jasinda and Jack for a truly amazing story full of love, and loss and giving others a glimpse into the life of a Marine Corps family. Marines go in first and are the last to leave. They are tough and strong and their wives are amazing women who are selfless and give love easily to their husbands and others around them. Captured is a must read for anyone that wants to know what it is like to be a Marine Corps wife.

CAPTURED will show you:

Courage
Amazing Grace
Perseverance
Turmoil
Unity
Return
Everlasting Love
Determination

*** On a personal note, We want to thank the men and women of the Armed Forces for serving and protecting our nation. We would also like to thank their families and loved ones for enduring life on the home front while their loved ones selflessly serve and protect our country. You are all true heroes in every way.

Author Bio:

NEW YORK TIMES, USA TODAY, WALL STREET JOURNAL and international bestselling author Jasinda Wilder is a Michigan native with a penchant for titillating tales about sexy men and strong women. Her bestselling titles include ALPHA, STRIPPED, WOUNDED, and the #1 Amazon and international bestseller FALLING INTO YOU. You can find her on her farm in Northern Michigan with her husband, author Jack Wilder, her five children and menagerie of animals.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Giveaway

Jasinda and Jack have generously gifted our blog a signed copy of Captured to give away.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Release Day Blitz + Review- Dust To Dust by Karina Halle- The Experiment In Terror Series-Book 9- 6 Stars

Posted on 08/11/2014 by shellbellereads

Dust To Dust

Experiment In Terror Series- Book 9

By Karina Halle

Synopsis:

The dramatic conclusion to the Experiment in Terror Series.

Perry Palomino and Dex Foray.

On their own, they’re uniquely brilliant. Together, they’re an unstoppable team.

Until now.

Because after everything the duo has encountered, they haven’t come across an evil quite like this. An evil that has been years in the making, an evil that will stop at nothing until they, and everyone they care for, are destroyed.

Dex and Perry’s love has survived a multitude of sins.

But can it survive the end?

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

The Experiment In Terror Series

1. Darkhouse – Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

2. Red Fox – Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

2.5. The Benson – Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

3. Dead Sky Morning– Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

4. Lying Season– Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

5. On Demon Wings– Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

5.5. Old Blood– Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

5.7. The Dex Files– Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

6. Into The Hollow– Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

6.5. And With Madness Comes The Light– Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

7. Come Alive– Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

8. Ashes To Ashes– Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

9. Dust To Dust– Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Michel’s Review

At long last the highly anticipated grand finale in The Experiment In Terror series is released!

Dust To Dust by Karina Halle is brilliant! It is the perfect ending for the enthralling, bone chilling, hair raising, frightful Experiment In Terror series. This series has taken the readers on an unforgettable journey. The adventures and perils that Dex Foray and Perry Polomino have faced, battled, and survived have astounded every reader. Not only have Dex and Perry faced off every kind of evil and supernatural being, they have made self discoveries, acknowledged their weaknesses, faced their fears, become stronger individuals, accepted their gifts, and valued every moment, good and bad. Their adventure has made them both better people.

We have witnessed Perry Palomino go from an introverted, self doubting, somewhat delusional girl to a strong woman willing to fight for those she loves. She has become a powerhouse within herself.

We have watched Dex Foray change from a crass, thoughtless, self serving jerk into an honorable man. He has accepted his gifts, opened his heart, let go of his past, and learned to love deeply.

The Experiment In Terror series is not just a series in the horror genre. It is a romance series.
We have witnessed Dex and Perry go from strangers to reluctant partners that led to a strong friendship with mutual respect. Along the way they found a deep love that will exist in life and death. No one can tear them apart, not even the supernatural.

Dex and Perry have survived evil in many forms. They have traveled many miles. They thought they had faced the worst kind of terror and made their peace. But like everything in life, their fortitude will be tested once again. They will have to go full circle, back to the beginning where everything began.

Dust To Dust brings Dex and Perry to New York City. This is where it all began for Dex. This is where the Palomino women became connected with the O’Shea clan. This is where the ultimate evil has touched all of their lives. They will have to face off this ultimate evil. It is war.

Every war has casualties. Every war has fatalities. Every war leaves wounds and scars that remain long after the battle is fought. But for the ones that survive the war , they will carry these scars and the memories very close to the heart.

Dust To Dust is a frightful battle for life and love.

I am very sad to see The Experiment In Terror series end but am also very satisfied on how the ending played out.

Karina Halle is a brilliant writer. Her stories draw the reader into the characters world. We experience every adventure, every physical feeling, every emotional reaction, and every moment. Our sensory system goes into overload while reading these books. Our emotional side sympathizes with each of the characters emotions. The reader truly becomes completely involved. I can easily see The Experiment In Terror being made into a mini TV series like American Horror Story or Supernatural. It would stand out among these types of shows because of the powerful romance between Dex Foray and Perry Palomino.

Karina Halle I applaud you for the excellent delivery of The Experiment In Terror series. It is one of my all time favorite series.

Dex and Perry will haunt my dreams and everyday life. They will live on long after the final eulogy in Dust To Dust.

*** The Experiment In Terror Series is a 6 STAR Series***

Robin’s Review

The ninth and final novel of the Experiment in Terror series is Dust to Dust. It’s been a long and crazy ride for author Karina Halle. She has done a remarkable job keeping this lengthy series fresh and exciting when many authors would have struggled to do the same. Halle is wonderfully creative when it comes to writing in the horror romance genre. She has one hell of a vivid imagination and crazy talent for putting her horror scenes to paper. Ghosts. Demons. Haunted houses. Spooky sanatoriums. Zombies. Halle has written about all of these, but nothing can prepare readers for what she has planned in Dust to Dust. If you are a fan of the Experiment in Terror series, you are in for a real treat!

Throughout this series, Halle has taken readers to an abundance of haunted locations. Dex Foray and Perry Palomino have paired up to film episodes for their internet show Experiment in Terror at the following locations: a lighthouse on the Pacific coast of Oregon; the deserts of Red Fox, New Mexico; deserted D’Arcy Island, located just off the coast of Vancouver, British Columbia; Seattle, Washington; Portland, Oregon; the wilds of the Canadian Rockies; the haunted French Quarter of New Orleans, Louisiana; and the creepy Sea Crest Sanatorium in Gary, Oregon. In Dust to Dust, Halle brings her series to a conclusion where it all began for Dex Foray – in a brownstone townhouse located in New York City.

Dex and Perry have been in many frightening and dangerous situations, always managing to escape by the skin of their teeth. Everything they have experienced since meeting each other in that lighthouse has lead up to the dramatic conclusion of this series. In Dust to Dust, they each find themselves racing against time, fighting the ultimate evil in the battle of their lives. Dex’s long, lost brother Michael has been very busy planning to exploit their weaknesses, and this time the stakes are much higher with Maximus Jacobs and the entire Palomino family directly involved. Evil is found in many forms in this series, but expect the worst in Dust to Dust.

If you follow the writing of Karina Halle and think you may have seen it all, just wait until you see what she has in store for you in Dust to Dust. Expect gnawing worry. Tears of sadness. Interesting revelations. Unimaginable monsters. Heart palpitations. Fear and shock. Devastation. Repaired relationships. Love and tenderness. Expect the unexpected! And look for plenty of new “Dexisms” – hilarious, laugh out loud quotes which could only come from the mouth of Dex Foray!

In summary, I found this concluding novel informative, frightening, sad, but full of love. I found myself glued to the pages as I learned more about Dex Foray and his family history. Karina Halle lays the truth out for her readers, so be sure to pay attention. And frightening? Two things had me full of anxiety: a cloven-hoof demon with a busy agenda and the brownstone townhouse where Dex lived as a child. I wouldn’t want to spoil the fun for readers with anything more than that. I was full of sadness at times while reading Dust to Dust, and not just because this is the final novel of this beloved series. There are moments you will feel sadness, too. And there is so much love between Dex and Perry that it will fill your heart with happiness – just wait until you read the epilogue.

In short, Karina Halle has wonderfully brought her series full-circle with this concluding novel. Her writing is sensational and full of descriptive details which make you feel as if you are participating in the story. If you have never read, or even heard of, the Experiment in Terror series, please do yourself a favor and consider reading Darkhouse. This series is strangely addictive, and the novels only get better as the series progresses. As for Dust to Dust? Karina Halle has earned my 5-star rating!

Author Bio:

With her USA Today Bestselling The Artists Trilogy published by Grand Central Publishing, numerous foreign publication deals, and self-publishing success with her Experiment in Terror series, Vancouver-born Karina Halle is a true example of the term “Hybrid Author.” Though her books showcase her love of all things dark, sexy and edgy, she’s a closet romantic at heart and strives to give her characters a HEA…whenever possible.

Karina holds a screenwriting degree from Vancouver Film School and a Bachelor of Journalism from TRU. Her travel writing, music reviews/interviews and photography have appeared in publications such as Consequence of Sound, Mxdwn and GoNomad Travel Guides. She currently lives on an island on the coast of British Columbia where she’s preparing for the zombie apocalypse with her fiancé and rescue pup.

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ARC Review: Hillbilly Rockstar by Lorelei James- Blacktop Cowboys-Book 6

Posted on 08/05/2014 by shellbellereads

Hillbilly Rockstar

Blacktop Cowboys- Book 6

By Lorelei James

Synopsis

She’s protecting his body and guarding her heart….

Country music star Devin McClain understands there’s a downside to life in the public eye, but the laidback Wyoming cowboy has never imagined he’d attract crazed fans who would do anything to garner his attention. When veiled threats become real, he agrees to hire a discreet security detail. But Devin is shocked when that bodyguard is a hard-bodied woman. He’s even more stunned to be attracted to the steely-eyed stunner.

Former soldier Liberty Masterson’s return to civilian life has been fraught with challenges until she lands a job with a prestigious security firm. But when she agrees to provide personal protection during a cross-country tour, she doesn’t realize she has signed up to masquerade as the playboy star’s girlfriend. Though she’s more comfortable in combat boots than high heels, she has no choice but to appear to be the sexy groupie Devin prefers.

Living in close quarters causes the chemistry between them to ignite, and Devin realizes he wants to turn their charade of a romance into reality. Although Liberty surrenders to his every whim behind closed doors, she fears the sexy country star doesn’t see the real her; and Devin can’t help but worry when the tour ends that there might not be enough between them to build something that won’t fade away….

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Tracey’s Review

6 Stars

Devin McClain is a sexy and talented heartthrob, at the top of his game as a country superstar. He’s also generous, caring, and down-to-earth, having done his time and paid his dues to get to where he is. But fame doesn’t come without its share of crazy, and someone is gunning for Devin in a big way. When his bus driver is badly beaten, the powers that be decide that it’s time to call in the experts, and look outside the tour for extra security.

Liberty Masterson has been to hell and back, and she has the scars to prove it. Following a career in the military, reentry into civilian life has not been easy, but she has finally found her place as a security specialist. When she is tapped to guard Devin on his current tour, she thinks that she will be doing nothing more than babysitting a spoiled musician. Close quarters and a strong attraction soon having her revising her opinion.

I could not have loved this book any more. Lorelei has written a beautiful and sexy story that I could not put down until I’d finished. Watching Devin and Liberty navigate their relationship, seeing them grow to love each other, sometimes against their will, made for the best kind of love story. As each of them learned to accept things about themselves, and grow because of it, they became more free to be what the other needed. And, just so there’s no confusion, this book is off-the-charts hot. One of the things that I loved best about Devin and Liberty is that they both know exactly what they want from each other when it comes to sexy time, and they spend plenty of time enjoying it.

‘Hillbilly Rockstar’ is the first book that I have read by Lorelei, but it certainly will not be the last. This is truly a 6-star read for me, and I obviously could not recommend it more.

Michel’s Review

6 Stars

I am a huge fan of Lorelei James. I have read every single book she has published. Each and every book has been fantastic. I was highly anticipating the release of Hillbilly Rockstar, book 6 in the Blacktop Cowboys Series. Hillbilly Rockstar can be read as a stand alone novel or in series order.

Wow…Lorelei James knocked it out of the arena with Hillbilly Rockstar. It is by far one of my favorite books by this author.

Hillbilly Rockstar was an emotional journey for both characters. Devlin and Liberty had to face their weaknesses and strengths, accept themselves for who they are, and learn to share their hopes, dreams, fears, and hearts. The evolution of their relationship was truly beautiful. It was a powerful story.

Hillbilly Rockstar was sizzling hot. No one writes sexual tension, sexual chemistry, and blazing bedroom scenes like Lorelei James.

I could not put this book down ! This is definitely one of my 2014 Top Reads!

Author Bio:

Lorelei James is the NY Times and USA Today Bestselling author of erotic westerns: the Rough Riders series, the Blacktop Cowboys series, and the erotic romances in the Mastered series. Lorelei lives in western South Dakota.

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ARC Review: Sugar On The Edge by Sawyer Bennett – Last Call Series Book 3

Posted on 07/27/2014 by shellbellereads

Sugar On The Edge

Last Call Series – Book 3

Sawyer Bennett

Synopsis

He’s utterly alone…

Tortured and existing in a dark spiral of despair, bestselling British author, Gavin Cooke, has come to the Outer Banks of North Carolina to escape the seedy lifestyle he had been living in London and in a desperate attempt to regain his writing focus. He’s twisted, bitter and angry at the world. He’s a loner… needing not a single thing other than his Scotch and a laptop upon which he can bang out his next erotic, dark thriller.

She’s running in place and getting nowhere…

Savannah Shepherd’s life is falling apart. Her dream of being a wildlife photographer seems a distant memory and she’s barely able to make ends meet. Driving herself forward with no clear goals apparent, she’s about ready to pack up her bags and head home with her tail between her legs.

Two unlikely lovers…

He’s raw, forceful and a dirty talker. She’s a flowers and romance type of girl. Yet within each other, they find a mutual craving that can only be satisfied by giving in to their desires for one another.

Lust turns into something more… something they were not looking for but tentatively accept. Will it be enough to push them past the obstacles of Gavin’s bitter past?

SUGAR ON THE EDGE can be read as a stand-alone.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Michel’s Review

ARC copy provided by author for a fair and honest review.

Sugar On The Edge is by far the best book Sawyer Bennett has written! She has proven her growth as an author, created more complex characters, gave them more of an edgy darkness, created a plot that was unique, and merged several genres together that work perfectly together.

Sugar On The Edge can be read as a stand alone novel or in the Last Call series order. The beloved characters from the previous books are present in Sugar On The Edge. They lend a strong supporting role for the characters without influencing the direction of this story or having their own stories repeated or referred to throughout the book. Sawyer Bennett allowed her leading characters, Gavin Cooke and Savannah Shepard, to take the readers away in a completely new direction.

British author Gavin Cooke has come to the Outer Banks of North Carolina to complete his book. He is on a deadline. His destructive behaviors, drinking, and disregard have left his publishers and agent in a corner. They have suggested he take himself out of the seedy streets of London and buckle down. He is an arrogant self absorbed, dirty mouthed, critical, and contemptuous arse. He knows it and makes no apologies. His crude mouth, diabolical behavior, and self destruction have just changed geographical locations.

Gavin Cooke is sex on a stick! His filthy mouth and filthy moves will have you swooning. His vulnerability and misguided guilt will have you wanting to hug him after you tie his delicious self to the bed. He is one hot alpha male. His snarly, dry British sarcasm and creative blend of words will tantalize all the senses

Savannah Shepard is a struggling photographer. After losing her job at the local newspaper she is forced to take on several jobs to make ends meet. When she takes on the job of being a temporary housekeeper for Gavin Cooke, her life has just taken on another crappy job. The man is a complete jerk. He assumes too much, sees too little, and berates everything. He may think she’s a lamb and he’s the big bad wolf . He has another thing coming, Savannah has taken on the wolves and beat them to the ground. She is a tigress in a lamb’s skin.

Gavin and Savannah’s relationship is combustible and every surface they touch goes up in flames. Gavin may be domineering and Savannah may seem submissive but all is not what it seems. Together these two will find all the right ingredients to make the perfect combination that will intoxicate the readers.

There will be explosive sexual chemistry, panty dripping scenes, dramatic tear jerking moments, swooning romance, shocking actions, and a new story with a happy ending. Their journey will keep the readers captivated. I will say this, it is a good thing that Savannah and Gavin have their own persona Yoda, Brody Markham.

Sawyer Bennett has broke the mold with Sugar On The Edge. Her star is shining bright!

Author Bio:

USA Today Best-Selling Author, Sawyer Bennett is a snarky southern woman and reformed trial lawyer who decided to finally start putting on paper all of the stories that were floating in her head. Her husband works for a Fortune 100 company which lets him fly all over the world while she stays at home with their daughter and three big, furry dogs who hog the bed. Sawyer would like to report she doesn’t have many weaknesses but can be bribed with a nominal amount of milk chocolate.

Sawyer is the author of several contemporary romances including the popular Off Series, the Legal Affairs Series and the Last Call Series.

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Release Day Blitz: Craving Absolution by Nicole Jacquelyn -The Aces MC Book 3

Posted on 07/21/2014 by shellbellereads

Craving Absolution

The Aces, Book 3

By Nicole Jacquelyn

Synopsis

Farrah Miller and Cody “Casper” Butler have a longstanding relationship that both refuse to discuss.

It isn’t romantic.

It may not even be classified as a friendship.

Casper’s been saving Farrah from herself for longer than he’d care to admit, watching silently as she drowned herself in alcohol and bad decisions. Then when she finally got her act together, he left. He told himself he was giving her time to sort herself out. He tried to give her space.

But getting shot in the chest can change a man’s perspective, and Casper’s done waiting.

When he shows up on her doorstep one night, everything changes.

He’s the man who’s seen her at her very worst.

She’s his weakness.

He runs when things get hard.

She never lets anyone see below the surface and is terrified of being abandoned.

Casper knows it’s a long shot, that there’s a good chance she’ll never drop her guard for him- but he has to try. Because a life with Farrah is exactly what he wants…

Even if he has to fight her for it.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Michel’s Review

I have been dying for Craving Absolution to release. Nicole Jacquelyn’s Aces MC series has made my 2014 Favorite Reads list. I cannot praise this series enough.

With the market being saturated with Biker themed series, ranging from bad boy bikers, bikers undercover, bikers down under, and lifer bikers, I have to say The Aces MC is at the tops. It is a portrayal of a club compiled of members from various walks in life that have banned together as a family. They live by their own codes, laws, and rules. They love just as fiercely as their commitments to the club. They will give their lives, serve time, turn their backs on those who betray the club, and leave their old lives behind to live by the code. In return they will be embraced by a dedicated family that will have their backs at all times.

At times they will have to hurt the ones they love the most for the for the club. There will be times that they will have to sacrifice their own personal desires for the club. It is not an easy life.

Craving Absolution is the third book in this series. We met Casper, the new prospect for the club in the first book of this series. He is young, quiet, and a bit mysterious. He can move throughout various situations like a ghost. Thus, the nickname Casper.

In the second book we get to see who Casper was before joining The Aces MC club. He was a young man with a brilliant future. He was away at a prestigious school in the east. His academic success had gained him scholarships that would eventually land him a full scholarship to Yale. When his parents are brutally murdered by a gang with a vendetta, his life is forever changed.

At the age of fifteen he has a first hand experience with the brutality of the harsh and violent world. Through his older sister Callie he is introduced to the Aces MC club and her best friend Farrah. He will witness another world he never knew existed. He will seize the opportunity to join the Aces to get retribution for the deaths of his parents. He will find a world that is a better fit for him than the perfect world at Yale. He will find the one woman that can complete him. The life he chose, the woman he claimed will be the most challenging and satisfying endeavor he will ever take. There will be good, bad, violence, love, friendship, danger, diabolical enemies, and a support system that will have his back at all times. Cody will embrace this life and he will do everything in his power to capture Farrah’s heart.

We met Farrah in the second book of this series. She is Callie’s best friend. They met in high school and become sisters by choice. Farrah has had a very rough life. Her mother is a drug addict and former club whore. She is the illegitimate child of the president of the Aces. He has abandoned her and left her to survive in the horrific word in which her mother lives. Not only has she suffered abuse from her mother, she has witnessed the violent world that comes with the members of the Aces. Her boyfriend is brutally gunned down right on her doorstep. She has watched Callie suffer from the enemies of the Aces. She has a very bitter attitude towards the Aces and everything they stand for. The one person that has always showed her pure kindness and respect has now joined with the Aces. Can she give her heart to Cody knowing that their life will be ruled by the very club that has done nothing but break her?

Craving Absolution has lived up to the high standards that the first two books in this series has set. I was addicted from page one and could not put it down. There were so many surprises, underlying plots, emotional scenes, and pure love scenes. This book played on every emotion. Nicole Jacquelyn is a talented writer that has created a world that is unforgettable.

I cannot wait for more from this author and this series!

I highly recommend this series. It is on my 2014 Favorite Reads list.

Q & A with Nicole Jacquelyn

What inspired the The Aces MC series?

I don’t know that there was any one thing that inspired the series. It started out as just one story—and even that started out as a really abstract idea. What if a woman on the run from her abusive husband ran straight to safety… with the bad guys. It was intriguing, and it wouldn’t let me go. So I sat down one day and started writing in between wiping my kids’ asses and doing massive amounts of school work. I honest to God never thought that it would get as big as it did. I just wanted to do it, just get my story down and have someone, anyone read it. After I’d finished Craving Constellations, I knew that I wasn’t done. Grease and Casper needed their stories… so I kept writing, and you guys kept reading. Pretty freaking cool.   Will there be more books in The Aces MC series?

Well… yes. But maybe not for a while. I’ve been saying that this is a trilogy, because that’s what it feels like. BUT, Poet’s story is already in my head… and so is another couple’s that I’m not going to detail here, but once you’ve read the book, you’ll know who I’m talking about.

Who is your favorite character in the series? 

This is hard to answer, it’s like picking a favorite child! But truthfully…

It’s Gram. Always Gram. She’s very very similar to my own Gram that I lost a few years ago, and she was my favorite real person.

Do you have any other new books or series in the works?

Yep! I’ve got a new series that’s in the early stages. I’m writing in a little notebook about all these different characters and how they’re connected. They’re foster kids, from two different families. Good families. Solid ones. And years after they all go their separate ways, military, college, work, they start trickling back into their hometown.

Tell us about your writing techniques, habits, and inspirations.

Hmmm… Well, I write at night mostly. It’s the only time that the house is quiet for longer than a few minutes- and I need the silence. I listen to music while I write, but only after I’m about 50% done with the story, because I feel like I need the first half to learn the characters’ voices before I can cloud my head with any external stuff. I drink RedBull Red like water (That stuff is amazing). I sleep about 3-4 hours a night when I’m working, and if the story isn’t flowing, I take a step back until it is, which makes it hard to work on a timeline!

I’m inspired by all sorts of stuff—reading, hanging with my kids, driving, showering, ironing my hair. It happens at the weirdest moments, and I don’t know how many times I’ve been so lost in my head that I’ve missed the turn for my kids’ school.

The Aces MC Series

Craving Constellations

How could someone make decision after decision attempting to get away from their past and somehow end up right back where they started?
When Brenna decided to leave the only life she’d ever known, she swore she’d never go back. Now, five years later, she’s running from her clean-cut husband straight back to the motorcycle club that raised her… and the man she left behind.
She left with a secret, and the truth will soon break her carefully constructed life wide open.

Warning: This book contains graphic sex and language, domestic abuse, and the loss of a child. It is meant for mature audiences.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Craving Redemption

Asa and Callie had nothing in common. He was an Ace, raised in the club and loyal to it above all else. She was a high school student with braces on her teeth and a narrow view of the world.
They should have never crossed paths.
But when Callie decides to defy her parents, and Asa goes on an errand for the club, their lives collide. He saves her, and she mesmerizes him.
They part believing they’ll never see each other again.
Neither could have predicted the chain of events they’d put in motion.
Now the two have to navigate the dark waters of a relationship built on tragedy and need without drowning in guilt for things outside their control.
How do you love someone when the worst decision of your life was the reason you met them?
Warning: This book contains graphic language, sex and violence. It is meant for mature audiences.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Author Bio:

Nicole Jacquelyn is the mom of two little girls and a full time college student. She hasn’t watched television in well over a year, she still does things that drive her mother crazy, and she loves to read. At eight years old, when asked what she wanted to be when she grew up, she told people she wanted to be a mom. When she was twelve her answer changed- to author. By the time she was eighteen, when people asked her what she wanted to do with her life, she told them she really wanted to be a writer- but the odds of that happening were so slim that she’d get her business degree “just to be safe”. Her dreams stayed constant. First she became a mom, then she went to college, and during her senior year- with one daughter in first grade and the other in preschool, she sat down and wrote a story.

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

Posted on 07/16/2014 by shellbellereads

Proving Paul’s Promise by Tammy Falkner

The Reed Brothers Series Book 5

Synopsis

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

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

Series reading order:

Tall, Tatted, and Tempting (currently free)

Smart, Sexy, and Secretive

Calmly, Carefully, Completely

Finally Finding Faith

Just Jelly Beans and Jealousy

Reagan’s Revenge and Ending Emily’s Engagement

Maybe Matt’s Miracle

He has watched her from afar…

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

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

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

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

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

6 Star Review

by Michel

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Reed Brothers Series

1. Tall, Tatted, and Tempting

2. Smart, Sexy and Secretive

3. Calmly, Carefully, Completely

3.25 Finally Finding Faith

3.5 Just Jelly Beans and Jealousy

3. 75 Reagan’s Revenge

4. Maybe Matt’s Miracle

5. Proving Paul’s Promise

About Tammy Falkner:

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

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Review: Liam’s Journey by Heidi McLaughlin

Posted on 07/15/2014 by shellbellereads

Liam’s Journey

by Heidi McLaughlin

Synopsis

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

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

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

To go back, means to remember.

To remember means to hurt again.

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

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

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Michel’s Reviews

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

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

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

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

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

Here are my 5 Star Reviews for each book individually:

Forever My Girl ***** 5 Stars

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

Liam Page will steal your heart!

Finding My Way *****5 Stars

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

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

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

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

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

Beaumont Series Reading Order

Forever My Girl

My Unexpected Forever

Finding My Forever

Finding My Way

Author Bio:

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

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

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

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Review: The Year We Hid Away by Sarina Bowen ~ The Ivy Years Book 2

Posted on 07/10/2014 by shellbellereads

Synopsis

She’s hiding something big. He’s hiding someone small.

Scarlet Crowley’s life was torn apart the day father was arrested for unspeakable crimes. Now the shock has worn off, but not the horror.

It’s a safe bet that Scarlet is the only first year at Harkness College who had to sneak past TV news trucks parked on her front lawn just to leave town. But college will be Scarlet’s fresh start. Clutching a shiny new student ID — with a newly minted name on it — she leaves it all behind. Even if it means lying to the boy she’s falling for.

Bridger McCaulley is a varsity hockey star known for being a player both on and off the ice. But a sobering family crisis takes that all away. Protecting his sister means a precarious living arrangement and constant deception. The only bright spot in his week is the few stolen hours he spends with Scarlet.

The two form a tentative relationship based on the understanding that some things must always be held back. But when grim developments threaten them both, going it alone just won’t work anymore. And if they can’t learn to trust one another now, the families who let them down will take everything they’ve struggled to keep.

New Adult romance, including sexual situations. Suitable for ages 17+

Buy Links:

Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Michel’s Review

Wow! Sarina Bowen blew me away with her first book in The Ivy Years Series, The Year We Fell Down. I was amazed by her writing abilities. Her voice was fresh, entertaining, and held me captivated to the very last word. I gave that book a 6 Star Rating and added it to my 2014 Favorites List. The characters that were introduced in the book became members of my beloved book family. I wanted to know all of their stories. I was biting at the bits for the next book in the series, The Year We Hid Away.

The day The Year We Hid Away released I quickly one clicked this book and devoured it. Unfortunately due to my busy schedule I was unable to write my review until now. This book never left my mind and I thought about the characters and their story. I wanted this review to do justice for this amazing book. Again Sarina Bowen has amazed me with her gifted writing. Her characters, their lives, and their stories are fresh, unique, heartwarming, and so much more than your run of the mill new adult romance.

The Year We Hid Away is another 6 Star book!

The Year We Hid Away is Bridger McCaulley’s story. Let me tell you ladies, this man is going to steal your heart. He is one the most fascinating characters I have read.

Bridger McCaulley is a gifted hockey player, a brilliant student, a well rounded person, and quite the ladies man. On the surface it seems he has life by the horns. As we all know, appearances can be quite deceiving. Bridger’s personal life is a mess. His family life is in shambles. He is fighting to hold onto his academic career and keep his family together. His younger sister needs his protection. He will do anything to give her what she needs. Some things will have to go. His social life, his place on the hockey team, and his friends will have to be put on the back burner. No sacrifice is too small or too large. That is okay until he meets Scarlet Crowley.

Scarlet Crowley is no stranger to family problems. She is hiding from her own family after her father was arrested for unspeakable crimes. She just wants to attend college and start a new life without her past haunting every move she makes. When she meets Bridger McCaulley she finds a kindred soul. A person that she can call a friend.

As their relationship develops into more than just friends their pasts, their family issues, and their lives will hang a dark cloud over them. They will have to join together to hang onto the very things that are good in their lives. Hopefully it will be enough. Hopefully they can hang onto one another.

The Year We Hid Away is a highly emotional book. One minute you will be laughing and the next you will be fretting. These two young people have so much on their plate. It amazes me how strong they are.

Sarina Bowen wrote an amazing story. She tackled some very heavy issues. She had the guts to write about something that most people can’t deal with. She showed how these things affect all the people they touch. She did not sugar coat anything and found very realistic resolutions for all involved. Add a beautiful romance, great friends, and an adorable little girl and you have the perfect book. The Year We Hid Away is that book!

Author Bio:

Sarina Bowen writes steamy, angsty Contemporary Romance and New Adult fiction from the wilds of Vermont.

The Year We Fell Down, Book #1 in The Ivy Years series, began breaking hearts in March 2014. Book #2, The Year We Hid Away, is brand new.

For Harlequin-E, Sarina writes the Gravity series. Coming in From the Cold features an angsty downhill ski racer and one of the most unique plot conflicts in contemporary romance today.

Sarina enjoys skiing, coffee products and a nice glass of wine. She lives with her family, eight chickens and more ski gear and hockey equipment than seems necessary.

She would be honored to connect with you at http://www.sarinabowen.com.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter~ Goodreads

Saucy Southern Readers

professional, honest, and timely book reviews

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