Release Blitz + Review + Giveaway : Cold Hearted by Toni Anderson – Cold Justice Series – Book 6

Posted on 06/07/2016 by shellbellereads

About COLD HEARTED

Hunting For A Killer…Who Doesn’t Play By The Rules.

Detective Erin Donovan expects life to quiet down after the arrest and conviction of a serial rapist who terrified her university town last summer. Then two young women are brutally slain and the murders bear all the hallmarks of the campus rapist. Did Erin arrest an innocent man? Now her job is at stake and tensions are high and just when it looks like things can’t get worse, her department gets the help it needs to solve the double homicide–in the form of a man Erin has never been able to forget.

FBI Agent Darsh Singh has no interest in reliving the past. Three years ago, his feelings for Erin Donovan had him breaking all his rules about getting involved. Now his only interest in the former NYPD detective is figuring out if she screwed up a rape investigation and helped send an innocent man to prison. But being forced to work together rekindles their old attraction, and as Darsh and Erin fall for each other, the campus predator fixates on Erin. The race is on to identify the ruthless killer before he makes Erin his final victim.

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Want to read the first chapter of COLD HEARTED? You can do so here!

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Tracey’s Review

With a past that left her feeling weak and defenseless, Detective Erin Donovan now prides herself on being strong and not needing anyone. The fly in the ointment, so to speak, is one Darsh Singh, special agent in the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis Unit. Back when Erin was trying to break away from an abusive situation, she found power, freedom, and passion in one unexpected encounter with him. Now, when the horrendous crimes sweeping Blackcombe College require the help of the BAU, Darsh is the last person that Erin wants to see. Darsh has never forgotten the night with Erin, either, or the anger that followed the white-hot passion between them. When he’s called to Blackcombe to help unravel a high profile case, the two find themselves working together to stop the wave of violence that threatens the residents of the town.

COLD HEARTED by Toni Anderson is described as a book of interest for fans of shows like CSI or Criminal Intent, which I am. The book seemed like something that would be just what the doctor ordered to keep my TBR well-rounded, while introducing me to an author whose work I was not familiar with, and, I have to say, I am very happy that I took the opportunity. Toni has plotted a realistically gritty story, complete with dedicated but damaged detective Erin Donovan, mysterious and charismatic FBI agent Darsh Singh, and enough red herrings to keep the reader guessing up until the big reveal.

The attraction between Erin and Darsh practically jumps off the pages. Both are strong-willed, capable, and experts at their respective jobs. They’re also like a powder keg waiting to explode, deny it though Erin does. With the heat between the two of them intertwined with a plot that grabbed me from the opening paragraph, kicking off a story that I knew would be an action-packed mind game, COLD HEARTED was just the book that I was looking for.

Toni writes Erin, Darsh, and all of the characters wonderfully well, giving each a depth and complexity that makes them a pleasure to read, and has brought vividly to life a college campus held in the sway of an unknown menace that will make them question everything that they thought they knew.

Although this is the sixth book in the Cold Justice series, and the of Toni’s books that I have read, it does perfectly well as a standalone. Being the engrossing and tightly-written read that it is, COLD HEARTED is an easy 4.5 stars for me, and I look forward to reading more of Toni’s books in the future.

***ARC generously provided for an honest review.***

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About Toni Anderson

New York Times and USA Today international bestselling author, Toni Anderson, writes dark, gritty Romantic Suspense novels that have hit #1 in Barnes & Noble’s Nook store, the Top 10 in Amazon and Kobo stores, and the Top 50 in iBooks. Her novels have won many awards. A former Marine Biologist from Britain, she inexplicably ended up in the geographical center of North America, about as far from the ocean as it is possible to get. She now lives in the Canadian prairies with her Irish husband and two children and spends most of her time complaining about the weather.

Toni has no explanation for her oft-times dark imagination, and only hopes the romance makes up for it. She’s addicted to reading, dogs, tea, and chocolate.

If you want to know when Toni’s next book will be out, visit her website (http://www.toniandersonauthor.com) and sign up for her newsletter. If you want to read other fascinating stories about life in a city that, during winter, is sometimes colder than Mars, friend her on Facebook: (https://www.facebook.com/toniannanderson).

Release Blitz + Excerpt + Review + Giveaway: Showmance by L. H. Cosway

Posted on 05/16/2016 by shellbellereads

Showmance by L.H Cosway is LIVE!!! #DamonAndRose

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Damon Atwood was Hollywood’s golden boy. Having won an Oscar at the tender age of thirteen, he had the life many could only dream about. But his success came at a price, and after a short but fruitful film career, he chose to live a life of obscurity on a remote Scottish island. Almost a decade later he’s finally ready to make his return, starting with a lead role in a musical on London’s West End.

As a choreographer’s assistant, Rose Taylor has always faded into the background. She watches shows come to life from the side lines, but has never craved the attention of stardom. When rumours begin circulating of Damon’s involvement in her latest gig, she doesn’t predict how she will be thrust into the limelight, nor how the mysterious and strangely introverted man will need her to teach him how to be a star again.

Rose knows that show crushes don’t last. Actors fall for each other during the intensity of a production, often losing themselves in their roles. These kinds of affairs burn bright and then they fade. The question is, should Rose let herself shine with Damon, or guard her heart from being broken after the final curtain call?

“Well now, who’s this?” Julian asked as he slid up off the couch, where he’d been lazily scrolling through his tablet.

I chanced a quick, reassuring peek at Damon before answering my friend. “This is Damon. He’s in the cast.”

Julian groaned as he approached, his chestnut hair sitting messily atop his head. “Oh please, Rose, not another actor.”

I glared at him, trying to channel as much ‘shut the hell up’ into my eyes as possible. My flatmate didn’t really have a censor. A moment of quiet ensued while Julian circled Damon, taking his measure. “You don’t look like an actor.”

The edges of Damon’s mouth twitched for the briefest second. “Thanks.”

“He’s got a sense of humour, too. He’ll go far,” Julian grinned in my direction then sauntered into the kitchen. “I’m starving. Are you cooking dinner?”

“Aren’t I always,” I sighed and then asked Damon if I could take his coat. He shrugged out of it, his eyes not leaving me all the while, and then I went to hang it on the rack by the door. On my return he bent to ask curiously, “Another actor?”

I took a moment to absorb the sensation of his breath hitting my skin. It was…not unpleasant. Julian, who I swear had the hearing of a bat, didn’t miss a beat as he let out an amused chuckle. “Rose has a weakness for those in your profession.”

Damon looked at me in question. I strode over to the breakfast bar, again glaring at my friend. “Yes, well, I’ve sworn off all thespians after the last disaster, so Damon here is safe.”

“What disaster?”

For someone who claimed not to be a big talker, he sure had a lot of questions.

“Ever heard of Blake Winters?” Julian chirped, plucking an apple from the fruit bowl and taking a big bite.

Damon shook his head. Julian scrunched his brows.

“Have you been living under a rock?”

“No, I’ve been living on an island,” said Damon.

Julian cocked his head to the side, as though trying to figure out if he was being sarcastic. “Well, he’s an actor, like you, and he sleeps around. Rose had the great misfortune to have her head turned by the young Mr Winters. He seduced her and then left her in the lurch, the swine,” Julian pouted his lips, effecting a disapproving expression.

“Sounds like an arse,” Damon put in and both Julian and I began laughing.

“I like this one,” said Julian.

I grinned as I thought, yeah, me too, and found myself suddenly blushing.

Robin’s Review

One thing I know I can always count on with author L. H. Cosway: a colorful story with phenomenal characters. Her writing is artistic. Creative. She writes with flair. Once again, Cosway has impressed me with these elements of her writing in her newest novel titled Showmance – a contemporary romance pairing a choreographer’s assistant named Rose Taylor with Damon Atwood, the male lead of a musical production of Moulin Rouge. Showmance is told from alternating first person points of view of both of these characters, as their friendship slowly builds into a sweet and passionate love story.

Like many of this author’s female characters, Rose Taylor is quirky, clever and kind. She lives in London, works as a choreographer’s assistant, teaching dance routines for plays and shows on London’s West End. Rose has always been eager to fall in love – and has a bad tendency to fall for actors. Blake Winters is her most recent love interest, someone she thought she could really trust, but Blake traded her in for someone else after they had sex. He broke her heart, and because of Blake, Rose has sworn off all actors, even opting to take a break from relationships altogether.

Damon Atwood was a childhood actor who has now been absent from Hollywood radar for years. It’s been nearly a decade since Damon disappeared to the Scottish Isle of Skye, but now he’s ready make his return to acting on London’s famed West End. He shows up on the set of Moulin Rouge, where he wows everyone with his singing ability and is cast as the male lead. Right away, Rose can tell Damon is different. Although extremely handsome, Damon is shy, socially awkward, and in desperate need of a friend.

Cosway spices things up with characters Alicia Davidson and Blake Winters. Alicia is the gorgeous, red-headed actress from Los Angeles who is cast to play the role opposite of Damon’s character, and from the beginning, Alicia has her eyes set on Damon. Then, Blake Winters becomes a late addition to the cast, and he feels that he and Rose have unfinished business. The addition of these two characters adds just the right amount of tension to Showmance.

Cosway’s writing is indicative of her experience as an author. It’s excellent in Showmance, flowing nicely from one sentence to the next. She excels in the area of descriptive writing – she has the ability to describe or portray a scene that helps a reader feel he or she is a participant in the story. Just like so many other novels written by this author, there is an undeniable artsy feel to Showmance. Cosway writes with knowledge about dance, music and theater. And finally, one of the things I love to see when I read fiction is character development, and we get plenty of this in Showmance. Damon and Rose – even our secondary characters – show plenty of growth as individuals in this story.

Overall, I feel Showmance earns a 4.5 star rating. Although it’s not my favorite of her many novels, Showmance is entertaining, passionate and enjoyable. L. H. Cosway piqued my interest in Rose’s roommate Julian, and I’m already looking forward to reading his story, hopefully in the near future!

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Listen to the amazing playlist on Spotify HERE

L.H. Cosway has a BA in English Literature and Greek and Roman Civilisation, and an MA in Postcolonial Literature. She lives in Dublin city. Her inspiration to write comes from music. Her favourite things in life include writing stories, vintage clothing, dark cabaret music, food, musical comedy, and of course, books.

She thinks that imperfect people are the most interesting kind. They tell the best stories.

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Review: Dirty Little Rendezvous by Emma Hart

Posted on 05/14/2016 by shellbellereads

Sometimes the past becomes the present… And he’s hot, cocky, and British.

Leila Burke expected a lot of things when she joined her brothers on tour in Europe. He wasn’t one of them.

Jase Masters had no idea what to expect when he agreed to support Dirty B. on tour. She definitely wasn’t it.

It’s been eighteen months.

He remembers that night a little too well.

She insists she has no idea who he is.

He’s rugged and determined.

She’s wild and free.

Together, they’re a tornado.

Keeping it from touching down is the least of their worries.

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He’s so close that my eyes shut, but I force them open again, only because I want to see how green his eyes really are when the sun glances over them.
“The British are idiots,” I mumble, unable to form any further words—or any that are more coherent than those.
“Truth. If only because I can taste your lips and I haven’t touched them yet.”
“I think that makes you real—”
He cuts me off by doing exactly what he just mentioned—touching my lips with his. It’s the exact same as this morning, just fresher, almost. Realer. They’re heated from the sun, chilled from the wine we had at the bar around the corner not thirty minutes ago, and…softer.
Softer—yeah.
Hesitant yet somehow forceful.
Unsure yet oddly certain.
Mesmerizing. Consuming.
I grasp his shirt in my hand, wrapping my fingers in the soft material, as he moves closer to me and his other arm snakes around my body. He pulls me against him, and I slide along the wooden seat, my heart thundering in my chest.
I’ve been here for twenty-four hours.
I don’t want to stop.
I don’t want to change this.
I don’t know what’s happening.
I can’t feel my toes because they’re curled so hard. I can’t feel my fingers because they’re gripping him so tight. I can’t feel my lips because I’m kissing him so firmly.
I can’t feel my heart’s beats.
It’s beating too solidly, too firmly, too quickly, too erratically, for me to get a handle on it. My stomach is flipping and my lungs tightening and I swear to god, I’m consumed.
Jase.
Twenty-four hours.
A guy I’ve met once before last night.
And I’m consumed.
I’m scared.
I pull back from him, just our mouths, for just a second, before he pulls me right back in. I’m compelled to continue kissing him, and I wish I weren’t, but it’s as though a year never passed and I’m right back in London with the boy from the coffee shop.
I feel the way I did then. Racing heart when he kisses me, tingling skin when he touches me, butterflying stomach when he looks at me…
Except this is no coffee shop.
This isn’t London.
A year has passed.
And he’s not just a guy trying to figure out lyrics.
Not anymore.
He’s a potential international superstar, loved by possibly millions, obsessed over by far more. His lyrics could be written for him. His music produced for him. His schedule organized for him.
And I’m just a girl living in the shadows of her famous brothers, happy for a quiet life by the beach, where the loudest scream is that of the ocean crashing against the rocks that dare break the perfection of the sand.

Tracey’s Review

Leila Burke knows what it’s like to live in the limelight. As the younger sister of the four members of the Dirty B.’s, she’s seen her brothers and the women in their lives deal with fame, and knows that she wants none of it. Deciding to tag along on the European leg of their latest tour, Leila wants nothing more than to shake up her life a little bit, to revisit the places that she knows and loves. The last thing she’s looking for is to reconnect with the hot British guy that she met on her last trip.

Being asked to open for the Dirty B.’s is no small thing, and Jase Masters doesn’t want to do anything to mess it up. Figuring out that the girl that he, erm, met last year is their younger sister is one heck of a surprise. Figuring out how to keep himself from wanting her is going to be one heck of a job.

I’m fairly new to the Burke Brothers series by author Emma Hart, but I have fallen completely in love with all of the Burkes. Four hot protective older brothers, their girls, who just happen to all be best friends with Leila, the youngest Burke, and each other, and a funny as heck three-year-old make these books a pleasure.

All of the Burkes have gotten their stories in previous books, and now it’s time for Leila to get hers. At twenty-three, she’s fresh out of a boring relationship, has recently parted ways with her employer, and is looking for a change of scenery. Tagging along with her brothers on their tour of France and England seems like just the ticket, until her brothers bring it with their list of ground rules, which promise to make this trip feel sort of like being in prison.

Leila is feisty, sassy, snarky, and so awesome. She knows that reconnecting with Jase will only serve to bring the wrath of the B.’s down upon her, protective guys that they are. But once Leila and Jase begin to spend time together, to really get to know each other, once they’re managing to evade the all-seeing eyes of the Brothers Burke, all bets are off. And, before they know it, their hearts are involved.

It’s not supposed to be this way. It’s supposed to be a chain of late-night dirty little rendezvous after dirty little rendezvous. Secret, forbidden, hidden. Life-changing, earth-shattering, heart-thumping, but in the dirtiest, most delicious, most provocative way.
Not secret, forbidden, or hidden because there’s more to it.
Not life-changing, earth-shattering, or heart-thumping because he’s someone so much more than just a person to warm my bed for an evening.

DIRTY LITTLE RENDEZVOUS is the perfect wrap-up to this series. Sexy, sassy, steamy, with a heavy dose of family, I couldn’t put it down. I happily give this read 4.5 stars, and, if hot rockers and the women that love and handle them expertly are your thing, recommend that you add this one, and the rest of the series, to your TBR.

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By day, New York Times and USA Today bestselling New Adult author Emma Hart dons a cape and calls herself Super Mum to two beautiful little monsters. By night, she drops the cape, pours a glass of whatever she fancies – usually wine – and writes books.

Emma is working on Top Secret projects she will share with her followers and fans at every available opportunity. Naturally, all Top Secret projects involve a dashingly hot guy who likes to forget to wear a shirt, a sprinkling (or several) of hold-onto-your-panties hot scenes, and a whole lotta love.

She likes to be busy – unless busy involves doing the dishes, but that seems to be when all the ideas come to life.

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Release Blitz + Review: Dare To Take by Carly Phillips – Dare To Love Series – Book 6

Posted on 05/03/2016 by shellbellereads

Dare to Take by Carly Phillips

Date of Publication: May 3, 2016

Blurb

She was off limits,
But he couldn’t resist.

There are just some guys you don’t touch–even someone as innocent and inexperienced as Ella Shaw knows that. But when her brother’s best friend is up for grabs and willing, she can’t resist. After all, she’s wanted him for years…

On leave from the army, Tyler Dare WAS just looking for a little fun, but his best friend’s sister is off limits. Yet unable to deny how sexy and alluring she is, he finds it all too easy to succumb to a night of passion and heat that ends the next morning in the worst way possible.

Now years later, Ella is stranded on a tropical island with a hurricane bearing down, and only Tyler can save her. It’s his chance to make amends for the past and show the woman he’s never forgotten that he’s coming after her . . . in more ways than one.

Available From

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Tracey’s Review

Tyler Dare and Ella Shaw have history. Back when Ella, best friend of Tyler’s younger sister, acted on her longtime feelings for him, it did not end well. But the years have done nothing to dim the desire that flares between the two of them whenever they’re around each other, and Tyler is determined to make amends for the pain he caused Ella, and try for a second chance.

DARE TO TAKE is the sixth, and, alas, the last of the books in the Dare To Love series by author Carly Phillips. That being said, Carly has given us a book filled with all of the usual hot, sexy, feel-good, and romantic elements that are her signature, and that we love.

Tyler and Ella have both suffered betrayal at the hands of the people that should be their safety nets, and it has done a lot to form the way that they see relationships. But both are determined to move forward, and follow the passion that they share. It doesn’t take long before passion and friendship turn into something much deeper, and, in typical Carly fashion, love triumphs over pain, and healing and growth flourish.

I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to know the Dares. Each of the siblings and half-siblings bring their own complex personalities to the table, and their stories are engaging, original, and satisfying. I was glad to see Ella and Tyler get their turn, and, while I will be sorry to see the end of this series, I look forward to what Carly will bring to readers in future. 4.5 intrigue-filled, passionate, second-chance stars for DARE TO TAKE, a wonderful end to a beloved series.

***ARC generously provided for an honest review.***

About Carly Phillips

After a successful fifteen year career with various New York publishing houses, and over 40 sexy contemporary romance novels published, N.Y. Times and USA Today Bestselling Author Carly Phillips is now an Indie author who writes to her own expectations and that of her readers. She continues the tradition of hot men and strong women and plans to publish many more sizzling stories. Carly lives in Purchase, NY with her family, two nearly adult daughters and two crazy dogs who star on her Facebook Fan Page and website. She’s a writer, a knitter of sorts, a wife, and a mom. In addition, she’s a Twitter and Internet junkie and is always around to interact with her readers. You can find out more about Carly at http://www.carlyphillips.com.

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Teaser

The sun shone overhead, the temperature neared ninety, and the humidity was hair-curlingly high on the Caribbean island of St. Lucia, making it hard to believe a hurricane was coming soon. Ella Shaw glanced up at the blue sky, knowing it wouldn’t remain pristine for long.

The calm before the storm.

She pulled her hair into a high ponytail and headed out of her hotel, determined to hit the local gift shop she’d caught sight of on her way to the photo shoot yesterday. She’d seen long, draping, blue-beaded necklaces from the storefront window, but she hadn’t had time to stop. Her boss was a stickler for getting the right shot in the exact light, and they’d worked well past dark. By the time they’d wrapped for the day, the store had been closed.

As an assistant for Angie Crighton, a fashion designer based in Miami, Ella was responsible for the little details involved in a photo shoot. And though Angie, the photographer, and models had left the island this morning, Ella had stayed to make sure the shooting site was clean, the hotel pleased enough to allow them back another time. And if she were honest with herself, she liked the downtime after the craziness of a photo shoot, the rushing around of the crew, the bossiness of some of the models and, of course, of Angie herself.

Ella appreciated the fact that she had time to souvenir shop for her best friend, Avery Dare. How ironic was it that the two girls from very different worlds had met at all? But they had. And it was Avery who’d introduced Ella to the finer things in life, leading her to seek out a job with an haute-couture designer. Whereas Avery came from a wealthy family, Ella had been raised firmly middle class, but the two girls had bonded instantly. They’d even shared an apartment until recently, when her best friend had moved in with her rock star boyfriend, Grey Kingston.

Yep, two different worlds, even now, Ella thought wryly. But their friendship was solid. Which reminded her, she needed to let Avery know she might not make it back to the States tomorrow as planned.

When Ella had heard about the storm changing course, she’d tried to book an earlier flight out, without success. She shivered at the possibility of being stranded here alone during a hurricane and knew Avery would like the news even less. Her best friend suffered from severe anxiety, and Ella didn’t like to make her worry.

She’d just buy Avery an extra gift to make up for it, she thought, walking into the shop. She immediately headed to the turquoise-blue beads she’d seen through the window. The shopkeeper claimed they were Larimar beads. Even if they were fake, the beads, popular in the Caribbean, were said to have healing powers. Ella purchased two dozen, a mix of bracelets and necklaces, so she could share with the children at the cancer treatment center where she and Avery volunteered.

Avery had been nine, Ella ten years old when they’d met at a Miami hospital, both donating bone marrow, both there at the behest of a parent. Neither of them really understanding what was happening. All Ella had known was that she was doing a favor for her father, helping the stepmother Ella didn’t like all that much to begin with. Even at a young age, Ella had been a good judge of character, a better one than her father, obviously, because shortly after Janice had gotten well, she’d left Ella’s dad. And both her father and Ella’s life had gone downhill from there. Ella shook off the thoughts of her past before she could go deeper and darker, and focused on the pretty jewelry.

She spent some time choosing a thick turquoise bracelet for Avery and a similar one for herself before paying for everything and waiting for the shopkeeper to wrap things up.

Bag in hand, she started back to the hotel, cutting through side streets and looking into the windows of the stores, soaking up the culture along the cobblestone streets before heading back to Miami tomorrow. At least, she still hoped she’d be home. Knowing she couldn’t change the outcome, she pushed her worrisome thoughts aside. She’d deal with the situation as it came.

Sweat dampened her neck from the humidity of the island, and she contemplated taking a cab back to the hotel. She reached into her straw bag and pulled out her cell phone to make the call, when, without warning, she felt a hard jerk on her purse.

“What the—?” She spun around, but whomever wanted her purse was quicker.

She barely caught a glimpse of a tall guy with dark hair as he yanked harder, nearly pulling her shoulder out of its socket before slamming her against the nearby building with his other hand.

Her head hit the concrete wall, and spots immediately appeared behind her eyes from the impact. As she struggled not to pass out, the man grabbed her purse, along with her cell phone that had fallen to the ground.

She opened her mouth to scream, but nothing came out. Her legs collapsed beneath her, and she fell to the ground, her head smacking the sidewalk before everything went black.

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New Release + Review: Ladies Man by Katy Evans – Manwhore Series – Book 3

Posted on 04/26/2016 by shellbellereads

Ladies Man

Manwhore Series – Book 3

By Katy Evans

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Synopsis

TAHOE ROTH.
Irreverent, cocky, playful and naughty.
He’s not the guy you date.
He’s the one night stand.
The one your mother warned you about.
The one your body craves.

You’d think the man who called me succulent would want to strip me down and spread me out on his bed—like he’s done with countless others.
But he passed on my offer….
Just like I’d once passed on his.
He’s wary, like I am.
He’s broken, like I am.
And everyone knows two broken parts can’t ever make a whole.
Tahoe and I are strictly friends.
So I distract myself with other men.
He doesn’t think my new man is good enough. This blond blue-eyed beast doesn’t think any man is—himself included.
But the more time we spend together, the more confused I feel.
I’m trying to open myself to love.
Yet I’m quickly realizing that the only man I want is Tahoe Roth.
The one man who will surely break my heart.

A sexy new standalone contemporary romance from New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Katy Evans. Although part of the Manwhore series, this book can be read as standalone.

Tracey’s Review

There are fears in your life that neither you nor any man on this Earth can spare you from. Fears so deeply entrenched, there is no corner in your soul to hide, no way of escaping them. They grab you, own you, squeeze the life out of you, until you wake up sweating in the middle of the night, in tears, and you’re frantic to touch the ground beneath you because you still feel like you’re falling…and falling…a never-ending drop. Until a painfully hard surface breaks your fall. That hard surface, for me, is Tahoe Roth.

In LADIES MAN, the third book in the Manwhore series, author Katy Evans has given us another of her signature alpha men with a complex and enigmatic back story. Tahoe Roth is the consummate ladies’ man. Larger than life, he works hard and plays hard, attracting women effortlessly, refusing to be tied down by any of them. Like a moth to the flame, Gina finds herself as drawn to him as the others, even while knowing that he is no good for her.

This book is rife with sexually charged scenes, and, I am telling you, they will leave you hot, bothered, and in search of a fan and a new set of panties (Two words: outdoor shower. Gah!). LADIES MAN fairly sizzles with the chemistry between Tahoe and Gina, two people that, despite their best intentions, cannot stay away from each other. Watching them find their uneasy way to each other is like a delicious unwrapping, one step at a time, something that Katy has often used in her writing, and which drives me crazy in the best possible way.

I love the evolution of the relationship between Tahoe and Gina, the way that they bring out the best in each other, even while calling what they have anything other than what it is becoming. The scenes between the two of them, even when they’re doing nothing but spending time together as friends, are palpably emotional and just plain hot.

This book is an easy 4.5 stars for me. The story grabbed me immediately, and I found myself completely invested in both Gina and Tahoe, not wanting to stop reading until I got my answers. LADIES MAN is a definite must-read, and will have you alternately wanting to cheer, yell, throw your book, and grab a cold shower. Do yourself a favor, and do not wait to snap this book up right now. I guarantee that you will not be sorry.

***ARC generously provided for an honest review.***

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The Manwhore Series

Manwhore

Manwhore Series – Book 1

By Katy Evans

Release Date: March 24, 2015

Synopsis

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

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

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

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

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

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

Buy : Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes / Google

***

Manwhore + 1

Manwhore Series- Book 2

By Katy Evans

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Synopsis

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

Billionaire playboy? Check.

Ruthless businessman? Check.

Absolutely sinful? Check.

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

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

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

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

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

***

Ladies Man

Manwhore Series – Book 3

By Katy Evans

Irreverent, cocky, playful and naughty.
He’s not the guy you date.
He’s the one night stand.
The one your mother warned you about.
The one your body craves.

A sexy new standalone contemporary romance from New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Katy Evans. Although part of the Manwhore series, this book can be read as standalone.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

________________________________________________

About Katy Evans

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

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

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

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

New Release + Review: Never Sweeter by Charlotte Stein – A Dark Obsession Novel

Posted on 04/21/2016 by shellbellereads

Never Sweeter

A Dark Obsession Novel

By Charlotte Stein

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes

Synopsis

Second chances are sweeter than ever in Charlotte Stein’s steamy Dark Obsession series—perfect for fans of Katy Evans—as a self-reliant college girl falls for a reformed bully who’s desperate to make up for lost time.

Letty Carmichael can’t believe her eyes when she catches a glimpse of her high school tormenter, wrestling champ Tate Sullivan, on campus. College was supposed to be her escape from Tate’s constant ridicule. Now he’s in her classes again, just waiting for his chance to make her life hell. But when Letty and Tate are partnered up for an assignment—on sex in cinema, of all things—she starts to see a kinder, gentler side of him. And when she realizes Tate knows more about sex than she could ever guess at, he soon starts making her blush in a whole new way.

Tate Sullivan is haunted by regret over his cruelty toward Letty. So when she agrees to work with him, he seizes his chance to make amends. He can’t blame her for not believing he’s for real, but soon Tate starts to break down her wall. She wants to know about passion, desire, lust—topics he is well versed in. And in return she offers the one thing he always wanted: the chance to be more than just a jock.

Letty is shocked by how sensitive Tate can be. Still, desiring him feels ludicrous. Loving him is impossible. Craving him is beyond all reason. So why can’t she stop?

Michel’s Review

Readers can always count on Charlotte Stein delivering a smoldering hot book. Her latest release, Never Sweeter, is not exception. It is red hot! The heat index is not what makes this book stand out, it’s just an added bonus. What makes this book is the story itself. An Enemies to Lovers romance that encompasses an emotional story about bullying.

Tate Sullivan was the worst kind of bully in high school. The bullying was so bad that it almost led to Letty Carmichael’s death. Two years later Letty has to face the monster that shattered her self esteem, self worth, and basic trust in people. The monster is in her college film class. He’s been assigned as her partner in a term project. Not only is she frightened but she is also angry. After an initial confrontation, Tate Sullivan appears to be quite different than he was in high school. She still refuses to trust a single word that he says. She refuses to forgive him for his past actions. Letty is a bigger person than she thought, she’s willing to give the new Tate Sullivan a chance to earn some of her trust.

Tate Sullivan has changed since high school. He has deep regrets for the emotional fear and physical damage he caused Letty. He wants to make amends and become her friend. He doesn’t expect her forgiveness. He only wants a chance to make up for the past and to become her friend.

Both Letty and Tate are on a life changing emotional journey. A new journey that leads to that once in a lifetime kind of love. But first they need to get past the emotional barriers built long ago.

Charlotte Stein did a great job tackling this subject and turning it into a romance. The interactions between Letty and Tate were very realistic and believable. The outcome was heartwarming. I really liked this book and how it was portrayed. I only wish that there was an epilogue to get a glimpse of their happily ever after.

_________________________________

Charlotte Stein is the acclaimed author of over thirty short stories, novellas and novels, including the recently DABWAHA nominated Run To You. When not writing deeply emotional and intensely sexy books, she can be found eating jelly turtles, watching terrible sitcoms and occasionally lusting after hunks. She lives in West Yorkshire with her husband and their now totally real and completely nightmarish dog.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Excerpt + Review: Models On Top-Danny by S. L. Scott

Posted on 04/16/2016 by shellbellereads

DANNY BY S.L SCOTT IS NOW AVAILABLE EVERYWHERE

Everything you’ve heard about modeling is true, and you haven’t heard the half of it.

It’s glamorous.

It’s sexy.

And yes, the line between work and reality often blurs.

We’re not just prototypes of perfection. Models have feelings and desires, too. We may be genetically gifted, but we’re still human.

I’m only human. Yes, an extraordinary specimen that earns more in a day than most make in a year, but this eight pack didn’t create itself. I spend hours working on this body. The good looks just come natural. *Winks* Thanks, Mom and Dad.

I’m Danny Weston, Supermodel.

But one path was traded for another when I chose this career. Ten years later, I would trade my career to have it back. To have her back.

Reese Carmichael is the one woman I would give it all up for, and the only one I can’t have. Yet.

BUY LINKS:

EXCERPT:

As if reading my mind, she says, “I want to have sex, and I want you to make me forget about tonight. I want to be blissfully unaware of everything, except for right now, here with you.”

I’m already smirking. How can I not when I have temptation in its truest form begging me to fuck her? It’s a hard job… like rock-hard, but I can handle it.

“Sit up here.” I lift her up and place her on the counter. “I’ll be right back. Be ready for me.”

After turning off the water, I slip out and go for a condom from my suitcase. When I return, she has her arms wrapped around her legs, giving me a peek of her sexy pussy. “Open for me.”

She spreads her legs and waits for further instruction. “Put your hands behind you.” She does. After stroking myself while eyeing her incredible tits, I rip open the package and put the condom on.

Her back is curved, pushing them forward, and I run my hand over her sensitive nipples. “You know how sexy you are?”

“No,” she says, the reply jagged. “Tell me.”

“I’ll show you, but brace yourself.” Just as she firms her palms against the counter, I slam forward, holding her by her hips as I thrust in and out several times, hard and fast.

Her warmth draws my eyes to close, the fuse inside sparking to life. I won’t last, not with her, not like this. I’m getting close to release when she says, “Stop. Danny, stop.”

My whole body is alert to the sound of her voice and I stop. Worried, I back up but keep my hands on her. “Are you okay? Did I hurt you?”

Each breath sends her chest rising and falling to a rapid beating heart. “No, this feels good. It’s too much and not enough.” Her hands cover her tits, teasing herself and me. “I want to see you. I need to see your eyes on me, on mine.”

Her pleasure is mine. Touching her cheek, I let my hand drift down and I smile. “I want to watch you come.” My fingers slip between her legs and I find that spot that makes her purr. “Keep your eyes on mine.”

She looks up, pupils wide as she takes me in. Her hands are holding me to the spot, her back to the mirror. I build her up again, tightening the coil that I want to watch unravel. I run my thumb over her bottom lip, wetting it. Then I kiss her as small circles increase in intensity and her moans are swallowed. When she starts holding on to me, I lean back and our eyes meet again—passion, addiction, obsession reside in the clarity of her deep blues and I don’t want her just to physically feel how strongly I feel for her, but to see it. “I’ve always loved you.”

The back of her head hits the mirror, her eyes close, and her mouth opens. “Oh God, Danny.” She shivers as the force of ecstasy takes over her body.

“Look at me, baby.”

I can see her struggle, but when her eyes open and meet mine, I don’t relent until I see her body coming down.

Sitting upright, she kisses my neck and whispers, “I want you inside me.”

ABOUT MODELS ON TOP:

The world of modeling is glamorous, sexy, and the models themselves live like rock stars. The world is their playground and their faces are their trademarks.

They may be considered beautiful or handsome, but not everything is handed to them on a silver platter. The days are long, the physical requirements can be grueling, and love doesn’t come easy when you’re jet setting around the globe.

For three Models on Top, finding success in this competitive profession is almost as hard as their abs, but they did it. Although their million dollar smiles make billions of women swoon, each has a journey they must travel to find the one piece that’s missing from their lives—Love.

_____________________________

Tracey’s Review

At one time, she was the one I came home to and she’s the song my soul continues to sing. It’s the song of our love. It’s…us. In her arms, I’m home again.

Danny Weston is living the life. A top model, he’s made the big time in an industry that isn’t easy to crack. When his past, in the person of Reese Carmichael, reappears, Danny feels like ten years have suddenly fallen away.

Blood rushes through my ears; my heart’s pounding hard enough to make me worry my chest has been split open by the dagger that just hit me…The one that got away.

Second-chance love, a swoony and handsome man that we’ve met (and loved!) before, flames rekindled, these are the things that make MODELS ON TOP-DANNY a real winner of a read for me. S.L. Scott has written a story that both sizzles and tugs at the heart strings. Angsty, romantic, HOT, and, ultimately, redemptive and heartwarming, DANNY is the the type of read that has it all.

DANNY is a page-turner, with an engaging and engrossing story, characters that you want to see more of, and Suzie’s signature heart and soul. I’m very excited to see what this new series brings, and give DANNY 4.5 romantic and panty-melting stars.

***ARC generously provided for an honest review.***

_____________________________

ABOUT S.L SCOTT

New York Times and USA Bestselling Author, S. L. Scott, was always interested in the arts. She grew up painting, writing poetry and short stories, and wiling her days away lost in a good book and the movies.

With a degree in Journalism, she continued her love of the written word by reading American authors like Salinger and Fitzgerald. She was intrigued by their flawed characters living in picture perfect worlds, but could still debate that the worlds those characters lived in were actually the flawed ones. This dynamic of leaving the reader invested in the words, inspired Scott to start writing journeys with emotion while injecting an underlying passion into her own stories.

Living in the capital of Texas with her family, Scott loves traveling and avocados, beaches, and cooking with her kids. She’s obsessed with epic romances and loves a good plot twist. She dreams of seeing one of her own books made into a movie one day as well as returning to Europe. Her favorite color is blue, but she likens it more toward the sky than the emotion. Her home is filled with the welcoming symbol of the pineapple and finds surfing a challenge though she likes to think she’s a pro.

Release Blitz + Review + Giveaway: Dare Me by Rebecca Shea

Posted on 03/23/2016 by shellbellereads

Three Words.

That’s all it takes to change your life.

Undeniably sexy, Commanding, and Off Limits…

Meet Holt Hamilton in Rebecca Shea’s DARE ME.

Danger, mysterious pasts, and passion come together in this new standalone contemporary romance novel from USA Today bestselling author, Rebecca Shea. Can Saige and Holt get over the past in order to have a future? Pick up DARE ME today and immerse yourself in the unforgettable moments where one dare spirals out of control and changes lives.

I dare you.

Five coworkers.

Four drinks.

Three glances.

Two fleeting smiles.

One dare.

A dare that will change my life.

That’s all it takes to send me plummeting into the arms of the mysterious Holt Hamilton. Behind his crystal blue eyes is a secret, one that screams danger but calls to me anyway.

My name is Saige Phillips.

I never walk away from a dare.

iBooks * Barnes & Noble * Kobo * **GooglePlay * Amazon**

Add to your Goodreads

“Sometimes you have to take that leap…or that dare…so you can learn to live and love again! Saige and Holt’s story had me on a rollercoaster of emotions…” – Crystal, Barnes and Noble

“This book hooked me instantly, and kept me interested throughout. I didn’t want to put it down! Another winner from Rebecca Shea!!” – Not Your Mama’s Romance

“I just couldn’t get enough. DARE ME took my breath away!” – Shayna Renee’s Spicy Reviews

DARE ME TRAILER: https://youtu.be/9W7AnPtH_cc

Tracey’s Review

“Okay, but just so you know, I’m not going to fall in love with you, Holt Hamilton. It’s never going to happen. We can end this here and chalk it up to a night of crazy drinking. We can walk away with no expectations for more, and no hard feelings….So if you’re looking for a girlfriend that turns into a fiancée that turns into a wife, we’d best just end this here, because that’s not me. I’m not that girl.”

It starts with a dare. Because, what self-respecting woman says no to a dare? The thing about a dare, though, is the consequences. And those can be far different than what’s expected…

I was intrigued by the idea of DARE ME by Rebecca Shea from the moment that the blurb was released. I love a little bit of mystery with my romance, and this book seemed like it would deliver in spades. And deliver, it does, in every possible way.

Saige Phillips has had more than her share of drama and heartbreak in her life. Losing her father at a young age has left Saige afraid to open her heart again, fearful of the vulnerability of giving everything to another person, only to be crushed. When a night out with her friends results in a dare that she just can’t refuse, Saige isn’t about to get attached. But Holt Hamilton, her boss and the object of the dare, isn’t so cavalier.

“Holt, this is just drinks. That’s all.” But her eyes tell me she wants more.
I lean closer to her. “It’s never just drinks, Saige.”

Because Holt has had his eye on Saige, and he’s in it for more than a casual hook-up. But Holt is keeping secrets, ones that he can never share with Saige, because finding them out would mean the end of anything between them.

Holt Hamilton is not the average book heartthrob. Besides being sexy, intense, and driven, he’s also a man of integrity, a man that wants to give Saige the love and the peace that has been missing from her life for so long. Yes, he’s got secrets that he cannot reveal to Saige, but everything he does, he does out of a sense of responsibility for her welfare. I really enjoyed seeing him and Saige work out their relationship, watching each of them evolve in ways that they had not anticipated. I love, too, that Rebecca has written Saige as a self-sufficient, if sometimes vulnerable, heroine, recognizing her flaws and owning up to them. That she has dealt with so much at such a young age, and is still fighting to find her sense of self, her peace, is hopeful.

DARE ME is full of spark and steam, coupled with deep emotion and resilience. I was hooked from the moment that I turned the first page, and sped through it like it was my favorite dessert. Rebecca has given us a book that is an easy 4.5 stars, and one that I will savor for a long time to come. Don’t miss out on this one; take the dare, and bump it to the top of your TBR.

***ARC generously provided for an honest review.***

_______________________________________________

About Rebecca Shea:

Rebecca Shea is the USA Today Bestselling author of the Unbreakable series (Unbreakable, Undone, and Unforgiven) and the Bound and Broken series (Broken by Lies and Bound by Lies). She lives in Phoenix, Arizona with her family. From the time Rebecca could read she has had a passion for books. Rebecca spends her days working and her nights writing, bringing stories to life. Born and raised in Minnesota, Rebecca moved to Arizona in 1999 to escape the bitter winters. When not working or writing, she can be found on the sidelines of her sons’ football games, or watching her daughter at ballet class. Rebecca is fueled by insane amounts of coffee, margaritas, Laffy Taffy (except the banana ones), and happily ever afters.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads

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Release Blitz + Review: Felony Ever After by Debra Anastasia, Belle Aurora, Nina Bocci, JM Darhower, Helena Hunting, Vi Keeland, SM Lumetta, Liv Morris, Leisa Rayven, KA Robinson, Katherine Stevens, Tijan, and Penelope Ward

Posted on 03/22/2016 by shellbellereads

Profile portrait of businessman working on laptop in black suit at studio

Felony Ever After

A Domino Novel

13 Authors… 1 Story

Authors: Debra Anastasia, Belle Aurora, Nina Bocci, JM Darhower, Helena Hunting, Vi Keeland, SM Lumetta, Liv Morris, Leisa Rayven, KA Robinson, Katherine Stevens, Tijan, and Penelope Ward

Release Date: March 22, 2016

Buy : Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

AT Amazon:

Amazon US / Amazon UK / Amazon CA / Amazon FR / Amazon AU /Amazon DE

Synopsis

Verity Michaels is new to New York City, but even she knows riding in a stolen a cab is not a normal way to meet someone. Damn it if that tattoo-covered would-be felon isn’t everywhere now, and lighting everything on fire under her skirt.

His name is Hudson Fenn, and he’s frustratingly impossible to pin down. He works as a bike messenger, but has the manners of a prince—along with a strange tendency toward breaking and entering. As much as Verity knows he’s not her type, and likely to land her in jail, she can’t help but find her truest self when they’re together.

Can she be brave enough to give Hudson a real chance? Will he be bold enough to reveal the man beneath the ink, or will his secrecy doom their connection? Also, WTF is the deal with Verity’s boss? No less than thirteen of your favorite romance writers have teamed up to tell this sexy, wacky, snort-inducing tale. With them you’ll visit the world’s most irritating office, a VIP room of questionable cleanliness, and the fanciest apartment a bike messenger has ever inhabited, but you’ll still never see this ending coming.

Michel’s Review

Is is a dream come true or a mixed up mess? Thirteen Bestselling Authors writing one story that will appeal to the fans in the romance genre. Each author that participated in this epic novel has their own individual writing style, their own particular specialities, and very different types of fans. How could one author that is known for comedic romance create a story with another author that is known for dark romance. Add other authors known for their intense characters, intense sexuality, and intense plots to the mix with a few new authors bringing their own talents to the table and my only thought was that this was going to be a very unique reading experience. Each of these authors are fantastic writers and the readers are in for a real treat.

Felony Ever After was one of the most delightful, craziest, and creative books I have read.

It all starts out with Verity Michaels hailing a cab and sharing a ride with the Hudson Fenn. What happens in that cab is not only a felony but the beginning of a heated romance. Verity and Hudson have more in common than red hot chemistry. The next twist starts with the mysterious packages that are being delivered to Verity’s creepy boss at work. Hudson is the delivery person. Verity is too curious for her own good. Neither has any idea of what is in the packages. A mystery clearly begins to unfold and when the revelations start appearing, the story takes off on another zany path. In the midst of all the insanity is Verity and Hudson.

I was impressed with this book. Each author paid meticulous attention to the characters personalities as they developed. They added multiple layers to each character that stayed in sync with the other authors contributions. As for what each author added in their chapters kept the story moving, taking surprising turns, yet stayed cohesive to the over all theme in the book.

I would of loved to watch these authors writing this book. They challenged each other’s creativity and gave the readers a delightful reading experience.

Read Felony Ever After!

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Release Blitz + Review: A Mess Of A Man by A. M. Hargrove & Terri E. Laine

Posted on 03/21/2016 by shellbellereads

A Mess Of A Man

Contemporary Romance

By A. M. Hargrove & Terri E. Laine

Release Date: March 21, 2016

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Womanizer, Man Whore, Player, Heartbreaker are all familiar names to Ben Rhoades. He prefers Money Man or Sex God, but he doesn’t let other people’s opinions rule him. And he’s only gotten worse without his compass, his best friend, whose devastating death at a young age has taught him a valuable lesson about not getting too close to anyone … ever. Until one smart and stubborn woman with eye-catching curves throws him for a loop and refuses to be tamed.

Samantha Calhoun has her life on track even after the shattering break-up with the guy she’d thought she’d wanted to marry. With her chin held high, she focuses on her career, building her business and making a success of it all. Only a chance meeting has her lost in a set of alluring steel gray eyes that have her steps faltering and her heart leaping out of her chest. Forewarned by not-so-flattering rumors plus his no-holds-bar rules, she tries desperately to play his game while guarding her heart.

Only they have no idea of the journey they’re about to undertake when their lives collide. Ultimately they’ll tackle the biggest test of their lives because she is his game changer. The one, who through the ensuing wreckage, can domesticate the mess of a man that he is.

There is finality to the sound of the door closing behind her. A sort of tormenting peace knowing the end has come. It’s not like I should have expected things to go on this way for long. How could they?

I stare holes in the walls as if I can still see her, the one woman I let in.

Sweeter than peach cobbler, she hardly has a bad thing to say about anybody—until now. Her parting description of me, beginning with ass and ending with hole, reverberates through my hollow heart, as I stand here rooted to my spot. I’m not even shocked, as this isn’t the first time I’ve been on the receiving end of that sentiment. I’m only surprised because I don’t think I’ve ever heard her so much as mutter a single curse word before. And the first time I do, it’s aimed squarely at me.

My hands tighten around a tumbler filled with amber liquid before I toss back its contents hoping for oblivion or something close to it. This road is so familiar. Only this time is different. I never cared like I do now. She means more to me than a quick fuck. Hadn’t I been about to tell her just that? How could things have gone wrong so fast?

Don’t be a dumbass. You can still fix this.

Instead, I stubbornly stay embedded to my spot because nothing can change the outcome. It’s a truth she and I know will haunt me until my last breath. And it’s created a wall between us I’m unable to climb … even if you gave me a damn ladder.

I’ve never been much of a risk-taker when it comes to matters of the heart. I can fill a bank account with a number having many zeros behind it from my astute choices in the market. But I can’t be a man a woman stays with. Hadn’t I warned her about that too?

Unable to see past my own shitty existence, I long for her to come back. I want to believe it’s all been some kind of mistake and I can forget what I know to be true. As the seconds continue to tick by, the inevitability that things are really over sinks in. My window of opportunity quickly closes as fast as her car door slams and the engine fires to life.

She’s so close, yet miles away. The longer I let the minutes expand between us I know distance won’t make the heart grow fonder. But maybe it’s for the best. Love, or whatever masquerades as it, just isn’t enough for the dirty, fucked up truth. Right when things were better than I ever expected, facts messed it up.

Groaning, I launch the crystal glass worth a small fortune at the door I can’t seem to force myself towards. A beautiful show of light plays off the shards as they cascade down in an explosion of fireworks. Visually, it’s what I feel inside as desolation constricts and then obliterates my chest because the best thing I ever had is gone … leaving me with only the certainty I’m meant to be with her.

I love you, I whisper for the first time and in place of goodbye. She left me and will never hear it. I can only pray we both survive what’s to come.

Tracey’s Review

Ben Rhoades seems to have it all. Sexy, smart, and successful, he’s well-known around Charleston for his reputation as a womanizing manwhore. When a chance encounter brings event planner Samantha Calhoun into his orbit, Ben is immediately smitten, and will stop at nothing to get to know her. Samantha has been burned by love before. She’s intrigued by Ben, but is more a forever than for the moment kind of woman. Will her love be enough to show this mess of a man what is most important in this life?

Authors A.M. Hargrove and Terri E. Laine first introduced readers to Ben Rhoades in CRUEL AND BEAUTIFUL, as the best friend to tragic hero Drew McKnight. In A MESS OF A MAN, we see a different Ben, one that has suffered great loss, and is living something of a half-life as a result. Still dealing with the grief of losing his best friend, Ben is determined that he will never open himself up to any kind of deeper emotion, opting instead for shallow encounters and avoiding commitment.

Having thoroughly enjoyed the authors’ writing style in their first book, I was really looking forward to reading Ben’s story. Although very different from CRUEL AND BEAUTIFUL, this book is no less engaging. A.M. and Terri have crafted a story of redemption, of self-discovery, and of the opportunity to choose love, even when love has caused much pain in the past. I really like that the emotion that has shaped Ben’s character in this book is not necessarily a romantic love, but is extremely powerful nonetheless. Seeing him overcome his demons and go past his comfort zone makes for a very emotional and uplifting read. All of the characters here, from Ben and Sam, to Sam’s family and girl posse, as well as Ben’s family, are interesting, and really help make the story what it is. Once I began reading, it was difficult to put this book aside, because I was invested in seeing whether Ben would rise to his potential or remain stuck in the life that he had created. I also really appreciated Sam’s storyline, as it is very timely, and really is a catalyst for the way that things finally play out between her and Ben.

I highly recommend A MESS OF A MAN. It’s a solid 4.5-star read, and another success for the authors. I look forward to reading more from them in the future.

***ARC generously provided for an honest review.***

A.M. HARGROVE

One day, on her way home from work as a sales manager, A. M.
Hargrove, realized her life was on fast forward and if she didn’t do something
soon, it would quickly be too late to write that work of fiction she had been
dreaming of her whole life. So, she rolled down the passenger window of her
fabulous (not) company car and tossed out her leather briefcase. Luckily, the
pedestrian in the direct line of fire was a dodge ball pro and had über quick
reflexes enabling him to avoid getting bashed in the head. Feeling a tad guilty
about the near miss, A. M. made a speedy turn down a deserted side street
before tossing her crummy, outdated piece-of-you-know-what laptop out the
window. She breathed a liberating sigh of relief, picked up her cell phone, called
her boss, and quit her job. Grinning, she made another call to her hubs and
told him of her new adventure (after making sure his heart was beating properly
again).

So began A. M. Hargrove’s career as a Naughty and Nice Romance Author.
Her books include the following: Edge of Disaster, Shattered Edge and Kissing
Fire (The Edge Series); The Guardians of Vesturon Series (Survival,
Resurrection, Determinant, reEmergent, and Beginnings); Dark Waltz, Death
Waltz, Tragically Flawed (Tragic 1), Tragic Desires (Tragic 2), Exquisite
Betrayal, Dirty Nights; and lastly Freeing Her, Freeing Him, and Kestrel—all
part of the Hart Brothers Series.

Other than being in love with writing about love,
she loves chocolate, ice cream, and coffee and is positive they should be added
as part of the USDA food groups.

FACEBOOK | WEBSITE | TWITTER

TERRI E. LAINE

Terri E. Laine is an avid reader and the co-author
of Cruel & Beautiful. When she isn’t writing romance with heart and heat,
she is crazily managing a household with her husband and three kids.

FACEBOOK | WEBSITE | TWITTER | GOODREADS

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Sometimes the past becomes the present… And he’s hot, cocky, and British.

Leila Burke expected a lot of things when she joined her brothers on tour in Europe. He wasn’t one of them.

Jase Masters had no idea what to expect when he agreed to support Dirty B. on tour. She definitely wasn’t it.

It’s been eighteen months.

He remembers that night a little too well.

She insists she has no idea who he is.

He’s rugged and determined.

She’s wild and free.

Together, they’re a tornado.

Keeping it from touching down is the least of their worries.

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Dare to Take by Carly Phillips

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DANNY BY S.L SCOTT IS NOW AVAILABLE EVERYWHERE

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Three Words.

That’s all it takes to change your life.

Undeniably sexy, Commanding, and Off Limits…

Meet Holt Hamilton in Rebecca Shea’s DARE ME.

I dare you.

Five coworkers.

Four drinks.

Three glances.

Two fleeting smiles.

One dare.

A dare that will change my life.

That’s all it takes to send me plummeting into the arms of the mysterious Holt Hamilton. Behind his crystal blue eyes is a secret, one that screams danger but calls to me anyway.

My name is Saige Phillips.

I never walk away from a dare.

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iBooks * Barnes & Noble * Kobo * **GooglePlay * Amazon**