Book Tour + Excerpt + 5 Star Review + Giveaway: The Baller by Vi Keeland

Posted on 01/19/2016 by shellbellereads

Meet Brody Easton in THE BALLER!

Contemporary Romance novel

New York Times & USA Today Bestselling Author

Vi Keeland

****

RELEASING JANUARY 18TH!

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

****

Blurb

The first time I met Brody Easton was in the men’s locker room.

It was my first interview as a professional sportscaster.

The famed quarterback decided to bare all.

And by all, I don’t mean he told me any of his secrets.

No. The arrogant ass decided to drop his towel, just as I asked the first question. On camera.

The Super Bowl MVP quickly adopted a new hobby—screwing with me.

When I pushed back, he shifted from wanting to screw with me, to wanting to screw me.

But I don’t date players.

And it’s not because I’m one of the few women working in the world of professional football.

I’d date an athlete.

It’s the other kind of player I don’t date.

You know the type. Good looking, strong, cocky, always looking to get laid.

Brody Easton was the ultimate player.

Every woman wanted to be the one to change him.

But the truth was, all he needed was a girl worth changing for.

Turned out, I was that girl.

Simple right?

Let’s face it. It never is.

There’s a story between once upon a time and happily ever after…

And this one is ours.

Excerpt

A new song had just started, and I was enjoying his company when a voice behind me said, “Can I cut in?”

My head whipped around, even though I had no doubt whom the gravelly voice belonged to.

Michael was gracious. “I hate to share. But I suppose I have been hogging the most beautiful woman at the event.” He let go of my hand and stepped back with a gentlemanly nod. “Thank you for the dance, Delilah.”

Again Brody Easton had caught me off guard. Before I knew it, I was dancing with the arrogant jerk. He wrapped his arms around me and pulled my body tight against his. Way tighter than Michael had held me.

“Good to see you again, Lois Lane.”

The man had balls; I had to give him that. I looked him straight in the eyes. “Nice to see you with clothes on, Easton.”

“Do you prefer me without?”

“I prefer you on the other side of the room.”

He chuckled. It was a hearty laugh. “That’s what happens sometimes when you decide you want to hang out in the men’s locker room.”

I tried to pull back, but he tightened his grip and held me in place. I craned my neck. “Let go of me.”

“No.”

“No?”

“That’s right. No.”

“I can scream at the top of my lungs.”

“I’d like to hear you scream.” His tone made it clear he meant he wanted me underneath him while I was doing the screaming.

“You’re an asshole. You know that?”

“I do. You asked me that yesterday. For a reporter, you should really try changing up your questions more frequently.”

My eyes bulged.

Easton shifted his hand down to the small of my back before twirling us around the dance floor. Figures the prick can dance.

“Are you seeing anyone?”

“You can’t be serious?”

He ignored my comment. “Would you like to have dinner tonight?”

“We just ate.”

“Dessert at my place, then?”

I couldn’t help but laugh. “Did you hit your head at the game yesterday?”

“On a diet, huh?”

“Yeah. That’s it. I don’t want to go to your place for dessert because I’m on a diet.”

“Well, that’s just a shame.”

Michel’s Review

The Baller by Vi Keeland is one of the sexiest, downright dirty, and emotional sports romances that I have read. I was blown away by the emotional story delivered in The Baller.

A beautiful sportscaster and red hot professional quarterback make the ultimate score. When Brody Easton dares Delilah Maddox to play his game, all bets are off. He relentlessly pursues her, woes her, and makes her desire his magical touch. But there is more to Brody Easton than meets the eye. Behind the arrogant, dirty mouthed quarterback is a man with a heart of gold. A man with compassion, a giving spirit, and unbreakable loyalty. He’s willing to give it all to Delilah but she must be willing to open up her heart once again. She has loved and lost. She knows the score. Brody Easton is a game changer.

I am not going to say much more because I don’t want to spoil this exceptional book. I will say to make sure there’s a box of tissue close by. Also this book should come with a warning “it may be too hot to handle”. Vi Keeland has proven that she has brought her winning game to The Baller. I fell in love with Brody Easton. I wanted to be Delilah Maddox. I ached for both of these dynamic people. I was thrilled when they finally figured out the winning play.

Brody Easton can toss a pass at me anytime. The man is sex on a stick and I would never block a pass from him.

Don’t miss out on the winning book of the season…read The Baller by Vi Keeland.

About the Author

Vi Keeland is a native New Yorker with three children that occupy most of her free time, which she complains about often, but wouldn’t change for the world. She is a bookworm and has been known to read her kindle at stop lights, while styling her hair, cleaning, walking, during sporting events, and frequently while pretending to work. She is a boring attorney by day, and an exciting smut author by night!

Additional Books by Vi Keeland

Life On Stage Series

Throb – Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes / Kobo

Beat –Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

MMA Fighter Series

Worth The Fight – Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Worth The Chance – Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Worth Forgiving –Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Cole Series

Belong To You – Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Made For You – Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Stand Alone Novels

First Thing I See– Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Left Behind – Amazon / Barnes and Noble

________________________________

Giveaway

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Release Blitz + 5 Star Review: The Baller by Vi Keeland

Posted on 01/18/2016 by shellbellereads

Meet Brody Easton in THE BALLER!

Contemporary Romance novel

New York Times & USA Today Bestselling Author

Vi Keeland

****

RELEASING JANUARY 18TH!

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

****

Blurb

The first time I met Brody Easton was in the men’s locker room.

It was my first interview as a professional sportscaster.

The famed quarterback decided to bare all.

And by all, I don’t mean he told me any of his secrets.

No. The arrogant ass decided to drop his towel, just as I asked the first question. On camera.

The Super Bowl MVP quickly adopted a new hobby—screwing with me.

When I pushed back, he shifted from wanting to screw with me, to wanting to screw me.

But I don’t date players.

And it’s not because I’m one of the few women working in the world of professional football.

I’d date an athlete.

It’s the other kind of player I don’t date.

You know the type. Good looking, strong, cocky, always looking to get laid.

Brody Easton was the ultimate player.

Every woman wanted to be the one to change him.

But the truth was, all he needed was a girl worth changing for.

Turned out, I was that girl.

Simple right?

Let’s face it. It never is.

There’s a story between once upon a time and happily ever after…

And this one is ours.

Excerpt

“You ready?” Nick slung his bag over his shoulder and lifted his camera. The reporter in front of us wrapped up his interview and shook hands with Easton.

As I’ll ever be. “Sure.”

I stepped forward and extended my hand. “I’m Delilah Maddox with WMBC Sports News.”

A slow grin spread across Easton’s face. He surprised me by leaning in and kissing me on the cheek. “Pleasure to meet you.”

I wasn’t sure if he was baiting me into an argument—expecting me to lash out at him for kissing me when he’d just shaken the last male reporter’s hand—or if he was trying to use his blatant sexuality to throw me off. Either way, I wasn’t playing his game. I cleared my throat and stood straighter, even though my knees felt a little wobbly.

“Do you mind if I ask you some questions?”

“Why else would you be in here?”

I ignored his sarcasm. He was still smiling at me. Actually, it was more like a smirk, and it made me feel like a toy he was about to play with. “You ready, Nick?” My cameraman finished setting up the lighting, then lifted the camera into position and gave me a hand signal.

“Congratulations on the win today, Brody. How is your knee feeling after your first game back?” I lifted my microphone high, knowing Nick was filming in close.

“I feel . . . ” He nonchalantly reached to the towel wrapped around his waist and tugged at the corner. The towel fell to the ground. “Great. I feel great. And how about you? It’s your first trip into the locker room, isn’t it? Do you like what you see so far?” His lips curled up into a full-blown wicked smile.

Before I could catch myself, my eyes dropped to his naked lower half. Shit. He was dangling in the wind. I totally got distracted by just how low the thing dangled. It was probably a full minute before I responded to his question. A full minute of dead air time. Great. “Yes. Umm . . . the locker room is . . . ummm . . . nice.”

I sounded like a total ditz. On air.

The jackass continued interviewing me. “Is it as big as you thought it would be?”

“Ummm . . . it’s much bigger than I imagined.”

His smile grew even wider.

Ugh.

I needed to get back on track or my first locker room interview would become a laughingstock blooper. Viewers had no idea he was naked from the waist down. “Do you think you were at one hundred percent today?”

His eyebrows jumped. “If you’re referring to today’s game, definitely. I had one hundred percent out there on the field. There’re some other areas where I have a lot of growth potential, but my knee felt one hundred percent today.”

His pale green eyes darkened, and I watched his long lashes lower. I followed his line of sight, and suddenly I was staring at his naked package. Again. Damn it. My eyes darted back up, but I felt my cheeks heating. I had to end this, or I was going to be beet red on air.

“Well, welcome back. And congratulations on today’s win.”

I waited until Nick lowered his camera and turned off the light. Then I looked right at Brody Easton’s smug face. “You’re an asshole, you know that?”

His eyes sparkled. “I do.”

I heard the chuckles and high fives at my back as I stormed out of the locker room.

Michel’s Review

The Baller by Vi Keeland is one of the sexiest, downright dirty, and emotional sports romances that I have read. I was blown away by the emotional story delivered in The Baller.

Brody Easton can toss a pass at me anytime. The man is sex on a stick and I would never block a pass from him.

Don’t miss out on the winning book of the season…read The Baller by Vi Keeland.

About the Author

Additional Books by Vi Keeland

Life On Stage Series

Throb – Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes / Kobo

Beat –Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

MMA Fighter Series

Worth The Fight – Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Worth The Chance – Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Worth Forgiving –Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Cole Series

Belong To You – Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Made For You – Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Stand Alone Novels

First Thing I See– Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Left Behind – Amazon / Barnes and Noble

5 Star Review + Excerpt + Giveaway: Slave To Love by Julie A. Richman

Posted on 01/18/2016 by shellbellereads

Slave To Love

By Julie A. Richman

Buy : Amazon / Amazon UK / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Synopsis

There are risks to mixing business with pleasure…

IF A MAN HAS AN AFFAIR AT WORK, HE’S A STUD.

He was a royal prick.

The night we met, he ignored me.

Then Mr. Big Shot CEO grabbed my ass in a business meeting.

My boss just loaned me out to this guy.

Now, we’re working on a major project together.

And our chemistry is dangerous.

Combustible.

If I allow it to ignite, I’ll risk losing that promotion.

Worse, what if I lose myself in him?

IF A WOMAN HAS AN AFFAIR AT WORK, SHE’S A SLUT.

From the moment I saw her I knew she was trouble.

It was the combination of her fresh face, smart mouth and nipples that seemed to know my name.

This woman could satisfy my needs both in the boardroom and the bedroom.

But there was more to it than that.

I wanted her.

Really wanted her.

And I was in the position to change the course of her life.

But I’ve got secrets, secrets that could destroy her.

And either make her mine or drive her away forever.

Slave to Love: Chapter One

By Julie A. Richman

I am a slave. Seriously, I am. My shackles may not be what you’re envisioning, as unfortunately, they are not crafted from leather with a hot, sexy dominant on the other end, flogger in hand. But they are trendy and cool and golden. Yes, my handcuffs are golden and they come with stock options, a 401(k), oodles of frequent flyer miles and hotel points and an Admiral’s Club membership at the airport. I wear my handcuffs 24/7.

And I have no freaking idea where the key is.

*****

Eight-twenty A.M. and I already need an effing shower. Ugh. Running late for an eight-thirty A.M. meeting. I thought a cab ride would be the answer and certainly cooler and quicker than walking, or God forbid, taking the dreaded subway on a sweltering Manhattan morning. But no. I emerge from the cab, with my now translucent white silk blouse pretending it’s a soggy second skin gearing up for our fabulous win in today’s “Who’s Got the Perkiest Nipples” contest. Shoot me. Just shoot me.

As I slide sideways into an elevator, the doors already half closed, I have the distinct honor of joining two techy nerd boys returning from their eight-fifteen A.M. smoke. Lucky me. The unkempt duo reek of cigarettes, yet I can’t decide which is worse, that, or the stench of their general shoddy hygiene and filthy jeans. Nerd Boy #1 is enjoying my transparent, wet tank blouse and my not-shy nipples. I catch him and he pretends to look at my necklace, a gold mermaid, just grazing my cleavage.

The door opens on my floor. Eight twenty-six. I’m not late yet. On my way out of the elevator, I lean over and whisper to Nerd Boy #1, “Great necklace, isn’t it. Would be better if it were pearl.”

I hear him choke as I exit. Schwing.

Michel’s Review

Julie A. Richman has once again wielded her magical pen and delivered an enchanting romance that readers are going to adore. Slave To Love is the perfect contemporary romance that has the perfect balance of contemporary issues that readers can relate to and the passion readers want to experience in their own lives. It is a witty and passionate story of finding love in the cut throat world known as the high stakes business world. A mermaid swimming in a sea infested with sharks. Only one shark will come out on top and the mermaid has to bring all of her survival skills to the table in order to survive the feeding frenzy. She may sink or swim but she’s not the only one drowning in the sea.

Does this sound kind of crazy talking about mermaids and sharks? Once you read Slave To Love, you will understand the mermaid and shark references. This is not a fairy tale story about a naive girl being swallowed in the business world. It’s a story of a strong, capable, intelligent woman that can hold her own in the world of business and gain the attention and respect of the high stake players she deals with on a daily basis. The outcome may not come out as she worked so diligently for but the rewards are far greater than the next promotion she hoped she would get.

Midwest Sales Director Sierra Stone has worked her butt off for her company. Her sales team has been on top for the past three years. When her company lands the SpaceCloud account, one of the fastest growing tech companies, it looks like her future promotion has gone down the toilet. The account has been given to her direct competition, the East Coast sales division. This account could put their division on top and it was handed to them wrapped in a shiny bow. Not only is this a blow to her ego, it is a slap in the face to her career. Sierra is a big girl and rolls with the punches. She is playing in the world with the “big boys” of business and she will just have to play harder.

Hale Lundstrom is the sexy CEO of SpaceCloud. His company is growing too fast. He’s always one step ahead of the game. His company has special needs that the new east coast sales director can’t handle. After meeting Sierra Stone he knows that she will be able to handle his company’s special needs and more importantly, she can handle his own personal special needs. He needs to get her on board. He knows her career is at a dead end with her own company and he can provide the perfect future position. What he doesn’t count on is Sierra Stone captivating him completely and making him a Slave To Love.

Julie A. Richman wrote a captivating mature romance that kept me glued to the pages. Both Sierra and Hale came to life and jumped off the pages. Their passion was captivating. Their relationship was mature, intelligent, playful, and emotional. These two strong, determined people found each other in a world where love doesn’t exist. It was truly a beautiful romance.

_______________________________________

USA Today Bestseller Julie A. Richman is the author of the highly acclaimed NEEDING MOORE SERIES trilogy (SEARCHING FOR MOORE, MOORE TO LOSE & MOORE THAN FOREVER), BAD SON RISING & HENRY’S END. Saddled with the affliction of serious wanderlust, Julie can often be found behind a camera lens in locales from Paris to Alaska.

STALK HER: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Pinterest

***

GIVEAWAY
$50 Amazon Gift Card

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2 Reviews = 5 STAR & 4 STAR : The Year Of Falling In Love by Jessica Sorensen – The Sunnyvale Series – Book 2

Posted on 01/12/2016 by shellbellereads

The Year of Falling In Love

Isabella Anders / Sunnyvale Series – Book 2

By Jessica Sorensen

Buy : Amazon

Book 2 in Sunnyvale Series.

Synopsis:

Isabella Anders just found out Lynn and her dad want to send her to a reform school. But with the help of Grandma Stephy, Isa’s dad agrees to let her move in with her grandma.

Isa is more than relieved to be moving out. And after going on an unofficial date with Kyler, she wonders if maybe her life is starting to turn around. But then she discovers the truth about what really happened to her mother.

Not ready to fully accept that her mother is a murderer, Isa turns to Kai for help. Kai is more than willing to help, but to protect Isa, he keeps some of the more brutal details about her mother’s case to himself until he can find out more.

But when a mysterious blue car starts showing up everywhere, and Isa receives a threatening text message from an unknown caller, Kai realizes someone is dead set on destroying Isa. And he might not be able to protect her.

_______________________________________________

Robin’s Review

Just a few months ago, author Jessica Sorensen published The Year I Became Isabella Anders, the first novel of her new Sunnyvale series. It’s a great pleasure for me to read the young adult genre, so I jumped at the opportunity to begin reading a series from the ground floor. Sorensen had a strong start to her Sunnyvale series, writing a multifaceted story composed of several subplots and intriguing characters whose backgrounds seem to be shrouded in mystery. I thoroughly enjoyed The Year I Became Isabella Anders, giving Sorensen a 5-star rating which I felt was well-deserved.

The Year of Falling in Love picks up where the first book of this series left off. Having been emotionally abused by her family for years, Isabella is a confused and lonely teenage girl. When her father and stepmother threaten to send her away to a boarding school in Montana, Isa finds a new home with her Grandma Stephy and cousin, Indigo. She also finds friendship and support from the two Meyers brothers who live next door. Kyler, the boy she’s had a crush on for years, convinces Isa to hang out with him to help keep her mind occupied. However, it’s his troubled brother, Kai, who is Isa’s true friend and protector.

Told from the alternating first person points of view of Isabella and Kai, readers are able to see several subplots which seem to unfold all at once. Isa is being followed by someone in a mysterious blue car, and she’s also noticing camera flashes out of the corner of her eye. At the same time, Kai’s life seems to be spiraling out of his control, leaving him in much the same position as Isa. Because a portion of this novel is told from Kai’s point of view, we should be able to gain some understanding of his position. But instead of finding answers from his perspective, I found this created even more questions about Kai, his relationship with his family, and the trouble he’s gotten himself into.

One of the very best parts of this story is the developing relationship between Kai and Isabella. His feelings for Isa appear to be genuine, and although she’s supposed to be dating Kyler, it’s becoming harder for her to ignore the growing feelings that she has for Kai. Subplots involving Isa, the Meyers brothers, and both families are becoming more complex as they continue to unwind. Jessica Sorensen has done an outstanding job of creating mystery and intrigue in this series. She appears to be world-building in this novel, guiding her Sunnyvale series to what I can only assume will be a dramatic conclusion. Although not as strong as the first novel of this series, The Year of Falling in Love is still a very good, and I’m assigning it a 4-star rating.

Michel’s Review

It’s interesting how different people can read the same book and walk away with different perceptions. While my blog mate, Robin , felt this book was not as strong as the first book in the Sunnyvale Series, I walked away with a different opinion.

First of all a reader must understand that Jessica Sorensen has a unique way of delivering a story. She slowly builds the story with mystery, intrigue,and adds subplots that tie into the main plot. She introduces the readers to the main characters and their issues that drive the story. She then slowly begins to unfold the story creating sexual tension, revealing passages, and creates intrigue. The romance is a slow build that becomes stronger throughout the story. There are dark moments and beautiful light hearted moments throughout the story that make her characters become more compelling. It doesn’t happen in one or two novels, it takes time to build the perfect story. Jessica Sorensen is a genius at building this kind of story that keeps the reader invested in the story.

I saw this novel as part of an intricate puzzle that was being revealed piece by piece. The first novel, The Year I Became Isabella Anders, gave this puzzle a center. The second book, The Year Of Falling In Love, built the borders around this puzzle and added a few pieces to the overall picture. The next installments will fill in all the gaps,add more color to the picture, reveal secrets hidden deeply among all the pieces, and will complete the compelling story into a beautiful portrait of two people finding themselves and falling in love.

Some readers may feel like The Year Of Falling In Love was too busy. My impression was that it was building a solid plot in a dynamic, compelling story. It moved the series along and built the intrigue.

In the first novel of the Sunnyvale Series, The Year I Became Isabella Anders the readers were introduced to the main characters, Isabella Anders, Kai Meyers, and Kyler Meyers. The readers got a glimpse of who the characters were and how their family life was a driving factor in their story. It added a mystery of Isabella’s past, gave the readers an insight of the abusive nature of Isabella’s family, and introduced problematic factors behind the closed doors of the Meyers family. A love triangle began to develop between Isabella and the Meyer brothers. The readers were left with mixed impressions of both of the Meyer brothers. While one brother seemed sincere in his interest and genuine friendship, the other brother seemed a superficial with his sudden interest in Isabella.

The second novel of the Sunnyvale Series, The Year Of Falling In Love, began to showcase the mystery and intrigue that is driving this series. The tension with Isabella’s family, her newly found strength to rebel against her family, and the beginning of revealing secrets about her mother, keep Isabella’s head spinning. Add the tension of a love triangle with a boy she has crushed on all her life and a boy that has always been her friend and this book becomes more than a mystery, it becomes a complicated romance.

In the first book the reader gets a good insight of who Isabella is as an individual. In the second book the reader begins to see her grow and become a stronger young woman. The first book introduces the Meyer brothers and the reader begins to see the differences between them. The second book gives a stronger impression of who Kai and Kyler Meyers are. Kai seems to have the same issues with his family as Isabella has with hers. He has always had Isabella’s best interest at heart. Kyle, the perfect Meyers brother, is still a bit of a mystery. While it seems that he is interested in Isabella, it also seems like he has his own agenda. He has no compassion for his younger brother. There’s a bit of a mystery as to where he fits in the overall puzzle. My creep radar was going off where he was concerned.

Although there was minimal romance in this book, Jessica gave the readers enough romance to keep the readers satisfied. Isabella had romantic encounters with both of the Meyer brothers. Each of those encounters left a solid impression. I think the readers will begin to choose which Meyers brother they want to win Isabella’s heart.

Jessica Sorensen did an excellent job creating the love triangle tension between these three characters. She also did an excellent job adding more layers to the mystery and intrigue of Isabella’s past. She created enough mystique and tension to keep the readers wanting more of the Sunnyvale series.

Jessica Sorensen has once again created a dynamic series and delivered a captivating installment to the story.

I can’t wait for the next book in the Sunnyvale Series. I want the rest of the story!

__________________________________________

Isabella Anders has always been the girl that never fit in. Most days she feels invisible, especially when she’s around her older sister, Hannah, who catches the eye of everyone, including Kai and Kyler, the boys who live next door.

Isabella has had a crush on Kyler for years, but knows he’ll never see her as anything more than Hannah’s little sister, unless she finds a way to standout.

When Isabella gets an offer from her grandmother to travel overseas for the summer, she seizes the opportunity, hoping she’ll discover more about herself. And she does, but not in the way that she expected.

Three months later, Isabella returns home an entirely new person. The change is enough to catch both Kyler and Kai’s attention. But Isabella is still struggling with what she discovered over the summer and until she deals with the truth, she’ll never truly be herself.

Buy: Amazon

______________________________________________

Jessica Sorensen is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author from the snowy mountains of Wyoming. When she’s not writing, she spends her time reading and hanging out with her family.

Facebook | Twitter | Website | Goodreads

Release Blitz + 5 Star Review: The Score by Elle Kennedy – The Off Campus Series – Book 3

Posted on 01/11/2016 by shellbellereads

The Off-Campus series is back…. Featuring

Dean Di-Laurentis … he knows how to score on and off the ice!

Buy ….

Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

*********

The Score

Off-Campus Series – Book 3

By Elle Kennedy

Synopsis

He knows how to score, on and off the ice

Allie Hayes is in crisis mode. With graduation looming, she still doesn’t have the first clue about what she’s going to do after college. To make matters worse, she’s nursing a broken heart thanks to the end of her longtime relationship. Wild rebound sex is definitely not the solution to her problems, but gorgeous hockey star Dean Di-Laurentis is impossible to resist. Just once, though, because even if her future is uncertain, it sure as heck won’t include the king of one-night stands.

It’ll take more than flashy moves to win her over

Dean always gets what he wants. Girls, grades, girls, recognition, girls…he’s a ladies man, all right, and he’s yet to meet a woman who’s immune to his charms. Until Allie. For one night, the feisty blonde rocked his entire world—and now she wants to be friends? Nope. It’s not over until he says it’s over. Dean is in full-on pursuit, but when life-rocking changes strike, he starts to wonder if maybe it’s time to stop focusing on scoring…and shoot for love.

Michel’s Review

Off-Campus fans have been waiting for Elle Kennedy to release Dean DiLaurentis book. The Score is released and it is a scorcher! This sizzling hot book will make your temperature rise, melt your panties, and warm your heart. Dean DiLaurentis is going to score big with the readers.

The Score by Elle Kennedy came as quite a surprise. In the previous books readers were left with the impression that Dean DiLaurentis was a spoiled, rich, sex obsessed man that cared more for himself than those around him. He was in college and on the hockey team for the fun, the parties, and the women. He had no aspirations to becoming a professional hockey player even though he was talented enough to do so. He was content to follow in his family’s footsteps and become the next DiLaurentis lawyer. He was taking each day as it came and enjoying his college life. What readers didn’t know is how complex Dean DiLaurentis really was in the most simplistic manner. The things that were most important in life, such as friendships and family, he valued highly. He always treated others very well and considered their feelings, their personal issues, and gave them the respect they deserved. He was very intelligent and earned his grades honestly. He never used his family’s stature and wealth as a way to make his life easier. He was content following in his family’s footsteps because he understood and respected their careers. He wasn’t against relationships or commitment, he just hadn’t found a girl that made him want that in his life. He had some trouble in the past with a former girlfriend that made him a bit more cautious about getting involved but didn’t let that define him. He learned from his mistakes and was always honest with all the girls he hooked up with. They knew it was for a good time and not a repeat performance. Overall, Dean was a well rounded person with a great attitude towards life.

It is his senior year and he is going to make the most of it. When he’s asked to keep an eye on Hannah’s friend Allie after she broke up with long term boyfriend for the weekend, he’s a bit miffed. It put a damper on his sexcapades for the weekend. When she shows up at his house, he begins to see Allie in a whole new light. He’s been warned off but that never held him back. When he makes his play and scores, it’s a game changer. Allie has rocked his world but now he’s the one doing the chasing. Allie has taken on his mantra, have a good time in bed and move on. Dean is determined to score again.

Allie has always been in a relationship. Once she finally lets go of her long term boyfriend, she’s fearful that she will take him back because she’s never been alone. When Dean DiLaurentis enlists himself as her relationship advisor/guardian, she’s in for a whole new game. Who knew being single could be that much fun? Who knew the sex could be that hot? Who knew Dean DiLaurentis was more than sex on a stick? She has scored with Dean DiLaurentis but will she come out a winner?

While Allie and Dean are discovering love their worlds are changing. With graduation around the corner, it’s time to make decisions about the future. Allie is pursuing her acting career but has some heavy choices within which direction to go. Dean’s past comes back to haunt him and it is affecting his position on the hockey team. He is also discovering that maybe he’s not so content with following in his family’s path. He is destined for something else. When tragedy strikes his world he will have to face some heavy choices including being the man Allie needs in her life.

Elle Kennedy did a fantastic job with this book. Both Allie and Dean were dynamic, strong characters that kept my attention. From their individuality to their sizzling hot relationship, both characters shined. The romance was heart melting. Their relationship was delightful, fun, and ultra sexy.

The Score is another winner in the Off-Campus Series by Elle Kennedy. I can’t wait for the next book! There were some teasers and it looks like Tucker is next up to play.

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The Off-Campus Series

The Deal

Off-Campus Series – Book 1

By Elle Kennedy

Synopsis

USA TODAY BESTSELLER!

She’s about to make a deal with the college bad boy…

Hannah Wells has finally found someone who turns her on. But while she might be confident in every other area of her life, she’s carting around a full set of baggage when it comes to sex and seduction. If she wants to get her crush’s attention, she’ll have to step out of her comfort zone and make him take notice…even if it means tutoring the annoying, childish, cocky captain of the hockey team in exchange for a pretend date.

…and it’s going to be oh so good

All Garrett Graham has ever wanted is to play professional hockey after graduation, but his plummeting GPA is threatening everything he’s worked so hard for. If helping a sarcastic brunette make another guy jealous will help him secure his position on the team, he’s all for it. But when one unexpected kiss leads to the wildest sex of both their lives, it doesn’t take long for Garrett to realize that pretend isn’t going to cut it. Now he just has to convince Hannah that the man she wants looks a lot like him.

***New Adult/Contemporary Romance. First of a series, but each book will be a standalone***

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes / Kobo

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The Mistake

Off-Campus Series – Book 2

By Elle Kennedy

Synopsis

He’s a player in more ways than one…

College junior John Logan can get any girl he wants. For this hockey star, life is a parade of parties and hook-ups, but behind his killer grins and easygoing charm, he hides growing despair about the dead-end road he’ll be forced to walk after graduation. A sexy encounter with freshman Grace Ivers is just the distraction he needs, but when a thoughtless mistake pushes her away, Logan plans to spend his final year proving to her that he’s worth a second chance.

Now he’s going to need to up his game…

After a less than stellar freshman year, Grace is back at Briar University, older, wiser, and so over the arrogant hockey player she nearly handed her V-card to. She’s not a charity case, and she’s not the quiet butterfly she was when they first hooked up. If Logan expects her to roll over and beg like all his other puck bunnies, he can think again. He wants her back? He’ll have to work for it. This time around, she’ll be the one in the driver’s seat…and she plans on driving him wild.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

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About Elle Kennedy

A USA Today bestselling author, Elle Kennedy grew up in the suburbs of Toronto, Ontario, and holds a BA in English from York University. From an early age, she knew she wanted to be a writer and actively began pursuing that dream when she was a teenager. She loves strong heroines and sexy alpha heroes, and just enough heat and danger to keep things interesting!

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads ~ Newsletter

Release Blitz + 5 Star Review: Fighting Dirty by Sidney Halston – Worth The Fight Series – Book 5

Posted on 01/07/2016 by shellbellereads

Fighting Dirty

Worth The Fight Series – Book 5

By Sidney Halston

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Synopsis

If you love the MMA romances of Vi Kreeland and Kendall Ryan, Sidney Halston’s Worth the Fight series will knock your socks off! In Fighting Dirty, a geek-chic cage fighter proves that appearances can be deceiving . . . and oh-so-tempting.

With his preppy clothes and horn-rimmed glasses, Enzo Silva is the last dude anyone expects to find in a mixed martial arts gym. A wealthy Brazilian banker who never had to fight for anything, Enzo’s stuck in the amateur circuit—but he burns to make the pros. Maybe that explains the heat he feels whenever he’s around Jamie Lynn Calhoun. The pint-size, magenta-haired bartender with the Texas drawl is everything he’s not . . . and everything he craves.

Tough as nails and independent to a fault, Jamie Lynn—JL to her friends—works hard to pay her bills and keep life simple. Enzo is doing his best to complicate that. Even though she likes to bust his balls, he’s got some kind of a nerdy-hot vibe that makes JL wonder if she might finally be able to let her guard down. It might do the boy some good to spend some time in her world, where blood, sweat, and victory are as sweet as the first taste of real love.

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Michel’s Review

Sidney Halston has added another knock out to the Worth The Fight Series. Sexy Brazilian businessman, Enzo Silva, is gearing up for the fight of his life. This time the fight is taking place outside of the ring. It’s a lockdown match and there are no rules. He wants Jamie Lynn Calhoun and he is going to win her heart.

Jamie Lynn, JL to her friends, marches to her own beat. She is a carefree spirit that will not be pinned down. She has learned the hard way to live life to the fullest and grasp every moment. She makes no apologies for who she is.

Enzo moved to the Florida after an ugly divorce. Although he was born rich and entitled ;he has worked very hard to become the businessman he is today. He came from a wealthy background and has learned that monetary riches do not define the person you are. He has lived in a structured, loveless life with high expectations. For once he is taking control of his life and pursuing his own personal dreams. He wants to become a professional fighter and his cousin’s gym, WTF is the perfect place to pursue his goals. His move to Florida has been a very good thing for him. He has made new friends that have made his life better and he has met the woman of his dreams. A woman that would not be accepted in his former world but stirs his soul.

Enzo and JL have been playing the cat and mouse game for a year. When he finally convinces JL to go out with him they are both in for a great surprise. There is more to their relationship than steamy hot chemistry. They will learn that they have more in common than they thought. They will learn that loving someone is a choice. A choice that can make them both happier people.

Once they have fallen head over heels in love their pasts come back to haunt them in the worst possible way. Enzo will have to choose between his family and career. JL will have to choose forgiveness and acceptance of the mother that never cared. Enzo’s business dealings may take away the one dream the JL has always held close to her heart. They will have to remember that love is a choice.

Sidney Halston delivered another fantastic romance that is Worth The Fight. Enzo is Fighting Dirty for the woman he loves. Read this book … it will not disappoint!

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The Worth The Fight Series

Against The Cage – Book 1

In her Loveswept debut, Sidney Halston turns up the heat as a sexy cage fighter shows a former bookworm how delicious a few rounds between the sheets can be.

For Chrissy Martin, returning to her Florida hometown always seems to bring bad luck. The day starts with a breakup text, followed by a jailhouse phone call from her troublemaker brother. Now a routine traffic stop has ended with her accidentally punching an officer . . . in a delicate place. Then Chrissy realizes that the hot cop on the receiving end of her right hook is none other than the man from her teenage fantasies.

Jack Daniels knows how to take a hit. After all, when he’s not chasing reckless drivers, he’s kicking ass in a mixed martial arts ring. So what takes his breath away isn’t the low blow, but the woman who dealt it: a gorgeous knockout with legs Jack wouldn’t mind being pinned under—who just so happens to be his best friend’s nerdy little sister, all grown up. Soon their instant chemistry leads to a sizzling affair, but Jack and Chrissy are fighting an uphill battle if they want to make love last beyond the final bell.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Full Contact – Book 2

Sidney Halston returns to steamy Tarpon Springs, Florida, where a hell-raising bad boy prepares to get down and dirty for the woman he loves.

How could she have been so stupid? When Jessica Cross decides to give her violently jealous boyfriend—the otherwise influential and charming Dennis Stavros—a second chance, she very nearly becomes a statistic. After weeks of healing from a broken rib and collapsed lung, and with Dennis behind bars, Jessica finally feels ready to come out of hiding. But will she ever be able to take a chance on love again with someone new?

Mixed martial arts fighter Slade Martin knows he has a bad reputation. Hell, he’s probably earned it. So it won’t be easy to convince beautiful, vulnerable Jessica that she can trust him—that from the moment she walked into his life, she’s been the only one he’s wanted. Powerful and confident, Slade knows he can honor his vow to protect Jessica body and soul. Winning her heart will be another matter . . . but a woman like Jessica is worth the fight.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Below The Belt – Book 3

Once one of the most sought-after names on the mixed martial arts circuit, Antonio “Scarface” Marino watched his career go down for the count as he chased skirts and made tabloid headlines. Now he’s finally making a comeback, and it’s all thanks to Francesca Silva, a Brazilian bombshell as tough as any of her fighters. But who’s the real Francesca: the trash-talking trainer who rides him hard, or the vulnerable woman who blushes at his touch?

Francesca went to the mat to sign Tony because she believes he still has the potential to bring big success to her gym—if she can keep his head in the cage and out of her personal life. After a short-lived marriage soured her on love, a one-night stand is all she can handle. Now Tony’s kisses are stirring up complicated feelings—especially when he agrees to face her ex in the ring. Francesca’s used to freezing guys out. But Tony’s tempting her to give in to the heat.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Laid Out – Book 4

Perfect for fans of Monica Murphy and Cecy Robson, Sidney Halston’s scorching new MMA romance proves there are no holds barred when it comes to seduction.

As an Army brat, Violet Channing could never meet her dad’s high expectations. But in the eyes of her best friend, she could do no wrong. He even insisted that he should be her first kiss. Now Cain Sorensen is all grown up, hardened by years in special ops and always looking for a good fight. Tall, with striking blue eyes and impossibly blond hair, he’s a modern-day Viking warrior. Of course, Violet’s all grown up, too, and she’s ready to surrender to his every command.

Cain knows he’s bad for Violet. His work is dangerous, and his hobbies are downright deadly. As a private mercenary and a mixed martial arts fighter, he could never let such an innocent soul into his world. And yet his most grueling combat training is no match for Violet’s killer curves, hot touch, and suggestive glances. Now all of Cain’s most explosive fantasies are coming true—but once they cross the line between friends and lovers, there’s no turning back.

BUY NOW

Amazon | B& N | iTunes

Fighting Dirty – Book 5

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

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USA Today bestselling author, Sidney Halston lives her life with one simple rule: “Just Do It” Nike, and that’s exactly what she did. After working hard as an attorney, Sidney picked up a pen for the first time at thirty years old to begin her dream of writing. Having never written anything other than very exciting legal briefs, she found an outlet for her imaginative romantic side and wrote Seeing Red, among four other novels currently in the works, including the sequel to Seeing Red. That first pen stroke sealed the deal and she fell in love with writing.

Sidney lives in South Florida with her husband and children. She loves her family above all else, and reading follows a close second. When she’s not writing you can find her reading and reading and reading… She’s a reader first and a writer second.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

2015 Favorite + 6 Star Review and 5 Star Review: Blood Kiss by J. R. Ward – Black Dagger Legacy Series – Book 1

Posted on 12/03/2015 by shellbellereads

Blood Kiss

Black Dagger Legacy

A Spinoff of the Black Dagger Brotherhood Series

Release Date: December 1, 2015

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Synopsis

The legacy of the Black Dagger Brotherhood continues in a spin-off series from the #1 New York Times bestselling author…

Paradise, blooded daughter of the king’s First Advisor, is ready to break free from the restrictive life of an aristocratic female. Her strategy? Join the Black Dagger Brotherhood’s training center program and learn to fight for herself, think for herself…be herself. It’s a good plan, until everything goes wrong. The schooling is unfathomably difficult, the other recruits feel more like enemies than allies, and it’s very clear that the Brother in charge, Butch O’Neal, a.k.a. the Dhestroyer, is having serious problems in his own life.

And that’s before she falls in love with a fellow classmate. Craeg, a common civilian, is nothing her father would ever want for her, but everything she could ask for in a male. As an act of violence threatens to tear apart the entire program, and the erotic pull between them grows irresistible, Paradise is tested in ways she never anticipated–and left wondering whether she’s strong enough to claim her own power…on the field, and off.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

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Michel’s Review

***A Seasoned Black Dagger Reader***

First of all I want to say I am a diehard Black Dagger Brotherhood fan. I began this series when my youngest child started school and I had time to read once again. That was over ten years ago and I have become addicted to this series. Throughout the ten years I have made the yearly pilgrimage to the Black Dagger book signings that started out with about 40 people in attendance to today’s 1500+ attendees. I have purchased all of the hardcover copies, e-book copies, and audio books. I strongly encouraged my husband to listen to the audio books. He has also become a die-hard BDB fan as well. The Black Dagger Brotherhood is my absolutely, undeniably, all time favorite book series. When a new book releases in the series, I check out from the world and devour the BDB world until the book is finished. Then I spend the year theorizing, contemplating, and counting the days until the next book releases. It was an amazing treat when J. R. Ward announced the upcoming Black Dagger Legacy series. I no longer had to wait an entire year for a date with the Brothers.

Blood Kiss by J. R. Ward is the first book in the new Black Dagger Legacy series. The Black Dagger Legacy is a spin-off of the Black Dagger Brotherhood Series. This new series is deeply involved in the BDB world but focuses on the new characters being introduced into the their world as well as revisiting the original Brothers in their daily lives.

I am giving this book 6 Stars based upon what it adds to the Black Dagger world and J.R. Ward’s new directions in character development.

The start of this new series is a brilliant move for the Black Dagger Brotherhood world. For the seasoned BDB fans it is the ultimate prize. They are once again getting a big dose of the beloved original brothers that captured our hearts. Readers are getting to experience slices of their daily lives. The BDB world comes to life and readers are once again getting to experience their passions, their unique comradery, and their snarky repertoire with one another. This book reaffirms that they are still the sh#tkicking bad@sses that get the job done.

As for a reader new to the Black Dagger world this book may not have the same impact as it does on the seasoned fans of the series. It can be read without having experienced the entire series. It can stand on it’s own merit. I would highly suggested reading the entire Black Dagger Brotherhood series first.

Blood Kiss features two couples and introduces some new characters. The readers are introduced to the new recruits vying to become Black Dagger warriors. Two of the recruits, Paradise and Craeg, begin a passionate love affair in their complicated world. They are fighting against the rules that dictate their world. There are the social barriers, the competitive training, and a very dangerous situation that is evolving within their world. Together they learn how to become warriors, friends, and lovers.

The readers are also drawn into Marissa and Butch’s wedded bliss. After being mated for several years they have reached a bump in the road. They are learning that no matter how much you love a person, the relationship still takes work. It takes compromise, unbiased understanding, communication, and unconditional love. J. R. did a beautiful job bringing this couple to a whole new level in their relationship.

The one thing that really impressed me the most was how J. R. gave Marissa a strong voice and really made her character come to life. The seasoned readers know that J. R. is stronger creating male characters and they dominate the books. In the previous books the majority of the story, the progression of the passionate relationships is from a strong male POV. The females are dynamic characters but they don’t radiate like their mates. Once their book is over their characters seem to fade into the background of the series where the Brothers still shine brightly. J. R. changed up her writing style with Blood Kiss. She gave her girls a strong voice and let their characters shine. She brought both Marissa and Paradise to life. They were strong female characters and had just as much presence as the male characters.

The reader also got to experience the magic that makes all of the Brothers and Lassiter (our favorite fallen angel )dear to our hearts. New readers will enjoy the snarky dialogue and interaction between the Brothers. The seasoned readers will embrace it wholeheartedly because of the established brotherhood and previous interactions throughout the series. Some of the passages will have a delightful impact that new readers won’t appreciate like the seasoned readers will. But the humor and engaging dialogue will keep everyone’s complete attention.

There is a subplot that engages both the new recruits and the original Brotherhood that unifies them as warriors. It may seem a bit rushed in the end but it was not the main focus for this book. The main focus is the passionate relationships evolving. It is also adding more layers to their world.

There are a few hints of what may come to pass in future books for both series. The BDB world is changing. There are old enemies gaining strength. There are new enemies within their race. The politics, the social cast, and traditions are evolving into something more progressive and possibly more deadly. Their world is not standing still. A war is coming. The home front is changing. The race is at risk of being exposed to the human world. The storm is brewing.

I have been involved with this series for ten years and am just as passionate about it today as I was when I read the first book. J. R. Ward is the queen of the romance world. Her Black Dagger Brotherhood appeals to both female and male audiences. She has proven once again that she can deliver the kind of book we all want to read. A passionate, highly adrenalized, fast paced book that keeps the reader involved long after the book is finished.

If you are new to J. R Ward or are a dedicated diehard BDB fan… Blood Kiss will keep you enthralled from the very first word to the very last.

Read Blood Kiss! And…. Sign me up for a Lassiter Calandar!

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Kelley’s Review

*** A Newbie to the Black Dagger World ***

This is my first BDB read and I found it quite enjoyable. I was able to follow the storyline fairly easily even though I had not read any of the other books in the series. J.R. Ward gives readers an excellent glossary in the very beginning that explains the language in this read and also gives a little background into certain characters. I found this glossary extremely helpful so if you are a new reader like me it is a must read in order to keep from getting lost.

How could I enjoy this without having read the series? That is the question that Michel posed to me several times. As in all romance the love story is what caught my attention. The story primarily revolves around Paradise and Craeg but you also get a glimpse into the relationship between Marissa and Butch. While I don’t know the background of Butch and Melissa’s relationship I can appreciate how much they working on keeping the romance alive and what happens when couples do not communicate like they should. Marissa took on a heavy burden that almost broke her. Butch was there all along to support her but didn’t know she needed support because she kept things hidden. We have all tried to do everything ourselves at least once in our lifetime and know that asking for help is tough but often makes life much more bearable.

I am also a glutton for a good forbidden romance and J.R. Ward delivers an excellent one in her character development of Paradise and Craeg. Paradise knows that Craeg is off-limits but she just can’t seem to help herself. I liked this role reversal where the Paradise was pursuing Craeg and he was doing everything in his power to keep honorable. The dam only held for so long until things were so heated that their chemistry nearly caused them to burst into flames. Then there was the walk of shame. Was it one and done or were Paradise and Craeg going to try to have a relationship? They were from completely different worlds and Paradise just knew her father would not approve so what was she to do? This dynamic kept me turning the pages especially since I am not familiar with the BDB series and had no idea if J.R. Ward was writing an HEA here or not. You will have to read Blood Kiss to find out what happens.

My final thoughts are that Blood Kiss an excellent stepping stone for new readers to get a taste of the BDB world. It was enough for me that I purchased Dark Lover on Audible. On its own it is a hot and steamy paranormal romance that is action packed and will keep you on your toes. It was an excellent standalone read on its own that I think new readers to this series will enjoy.

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Jessica Rowley Pell Bird was born on 1969 in Massachusetts, USA. She is the daughter of Maxine F. and W. Gillette Bird, Jr. She began writing as a child, penning her thoughts in diaries as well as inventing short stories. She read her first Harlequin Presents novel in a rose garden when she was in her teens. She was hooked immediately. By the time she went to college, she had boxes and boxes of Harlequins and Silhouettes. Every year, her mother would ask why all those books had to live in the house and Jess would reply that if even one of them disappeared she would know. (She’d catalogued them.)

Jess finished her first romance manuscript the summer before her freshman year of college. She attended Smith College and graduated with a double major in history and art history. She then received a law degree from Albany Law School. Shortly after that, she began working in the healthcare industry in Boston. She spent many years as one of the premier medical center’s Chief of Staff. While working as a lawyer in Boston, she completed two novels more and started a number of partials. In 2001, Bird married John Neville Blakemore III. Both her mother and her new husband kept telling her to send something in to an agent, a publisher, the Tooth Fairy, anyone. She thought they were nuts, but eventually got her nerve up and bought a lot of stamps. Since getting published, she has written contemporary romances as Jessica Bird and paranormal romances as J. R. Ward. She has been a Rita Award finalist, received two Romantic Times Reviewer’s Choice nominations and has been a HOLT medallion finalist.

New England born and bred, Jess is surprised to find herself living south of the Mason Dixon line. (But that’s what happens when you marry a Southern gentleman.) She and her husband live with their golden retriever, who oversees her writing in a supervisory role.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Release Blitz + 5 Star Review : Forget Me Not Anthology by Tammy Falkner & Guest Authors : Charity Supporting Alzheimer’s & Brain Health

Posted on 11/26/2015 by shellbellereads

Forget Me Not Anthology

Remembering Those We Have Lost

A Charity Supporting Alzheimer’s & Brain Health

By Tammy Falkner, Jane Charles, Ava Stone, Marquita Valentine,Lexi Eddings, L. J. Charles, Andris Bear, Caren Crane, Jerrica Knight Catania, and Diane Franks

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo / Google Play

Synopsis

10 artists auditioning for a shot at working with the Reed Brothers
10 skins, each with a story to tell
10 perfect tattoos so they’ll never forget
A little bit of healing
A whole lot of heart

An anthology of ten short stories by ten different authors who are donating 100% of the proceeds to benefit Alzheimer’s and brain health. Join Tammy Falkner, Jane Charles, Ava Stone, Marquita Valentine, Lexi Eddings, Lj Charles, Andris Bear, Jerrica Knight-Catania, Caren Crane and Diane Franks to help combat this terrible disease.
Tammy Falkner: Always, April- You probably love to hate her. She’s the woman who broke Matt’s heart and inspired that awesome letter in MMM. But whatever happened to her? Find out about the crazy dream that made her ditch her unfaithful husband in Scotland, and let’s give her some closure, shall we? (Matt has a pretty big cameo in this one!)

Andris Bear: Inked – The only thing officer Brent Copeland wants when he enters Reeds’ is some fresh ink to honor his fallen partner. But when he comes face to face with Honor Sloan, a hellcat he arrested six months ago, he must confront the mistakes of his past if he is to have any chance at a future.

Jane Charles: Rattled – She enters the tattoo shop with an envelope full of memories and a heart filled with longing. What she leaves with is more than she dreamed of, and it just might be the first step to healing the wounds of the past.

LJ Charles: Burned – Fred’s agony over past mistakes is so overwhelming he craves a reminder of them—one that will be burned into his flesh forever. Little does he know the past is about to explode into present-day reality.

Ava Stone: Hold Me Tight – Film student Seth Elliott can hardly believe his luck when Molly Wolfe, a pretty face from his past, stumbles into the Reeds’ looking for a tattoo to remember her brother. Finding her after so many years is even better than any of the classic movies he loves so much.

Lexi Eddings – Coldwater Blues – Michael Evans is the poster boy for trouble on two legs. After losing the one person who ever believed he’d amount to anything, he hitches his way across country to the Big Apple, convinced he can outrun the mistakes that forced him to leave his hometown. But as his dear Gran always said, “Wherever you go, Mike, there you are…”

Jerrica Knight Catania: The Knot – Ethan Masters never imagined he’d go for a girl with a tattoo, but when he learns the story behind Madison Kennedy’s mysterious design, all he wants to do is take care of her. But Madison is still struggling with great loss in her life, and is terrified of getting close to anyone ever again, especially someone as perfect as Ethan Masters.

Marquita Valentine: Skin Deep – After one reckless night ends in tragedy, Scottish rugby player Maddox Stuart turned his back on his former life, leaving everything behind, but when the girl he left behind ends up as his client in the Reed Brother’s shop, Maddox is forced to face his demons.

Caren Crane: Lakewood Confidential – Tondra is struggling for attention on the New York art scene when a chance to ink notorious hip-hop legend Lakewood lands in her desperate hands. The reclusive rapper shares a part of his history he’s never told anyone, forcing Tondra to choose between ensuring her own success and safeguarding Lakewood’s secrets.

Diane Franks: The Test of Time – He’s not the man he used to be. She’s desperate to find a way to bring him back to her. She needs a tattoo to help her remember. She needs a tattoo so he won’t forget.

Michel’s Review

Tammy Falkner and friends have compiled this emotional anthology to honor those we have lost to Alzheimers, Brain Injuries, and Brain Health. It is a tribute to the family members and loved ones lost within themselves. It’s a reminder that they still remain in our hearts forever.

Forget Me Not Anthology is based around the Reed Tattoo Shop and their reality television show. Ten tattoo artist are vying for a permanent position with the Reeds. Each artist is presented with a challenge and paired up with a new client. The artist are challenged to create a personal tattoo for their client in an allotted amount of time in front of the camera. Each client has a story that they want inked on their skin. It is the artist job to listen and create a design that will pay tribute to the story they are told. At the end of the contest the Reeds will select the next new artist to join their team.

Ten authors created heartrending emotional stories that were phenomenal considering the each story was novella length. It’s hard to deliver a compelling story with such short page space and word usage. Each author did a superb job gave the reader an emotional ride. Some of the characters are based off of characters in their own series or created specifically for this series. Each character comes to life and their stories capture your heart. There were a few that left me an emotional wreck and a stack of used tissues.

Each author had a snippet of one of the Reeds in the story but they were only supporting characters to overall setting of the story. I will say that each author captured their personality and their compassionate hearts.

My favorite stories were by LJ Charles- Burned, Jane Charles-Rattled, and Diane Franks-The Test of Time. These stories were gut wrenching and had me in tears. The tattoos they received were a glorious tribute to those they had loved and lost.

Buy this book… not only will you get 10 fantastic stories… you are also supporting a great cause.

Book Tour and 5 Star Review: Perfectly Imperfect by Harper Sloan

Posted on 11/25/2015 by shellbellereads

Perfectly Imperfect

By Harper Sloan

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes

Synopsis

Mirror, mirror … who’s the fairest of them all?

I still cringe when I hear that line. A fairy tale that had girls pretending they were the fairest, the most beautiful, and the most entitled. A fairy tale most couldn’t grow out of turned my haunted childhood memories into a living nightmare. Girls who grew up believing that pile of garbage became the meanest of all ‘mean girls.’

And those mean girls were right – it was a line meant for all the beautiful people in the world – and I knew the answer would never be me.

The women with long legs, flat stomachs, and perfect chests.

The type of women Kane Masters gravitated toward.

Well, that’s definitely not Willow Tate.

No. That will never be me.

Because I’m completely imperfect.

And … I hate myself.

I have no idea what Kane could possibly see in someone like me when he could have them.

Michel’s Review

Perfectly Imperfect by Harper Sloan is the best book she has written. Although it is a romance themed book it is also an inspirational book. Harper Sloan bared her soul in this beautiful story of a woman that had very low self esteem. We all have insecurities and are harsher on ourselves than most people see on the surface. Harper dug deep and put these inadequate feelings into words and created a story I think we all can relate to.

We are all shaped and molded by our childhood. Our childhood experience shapes our perceptions of ourselves and how we perceive others. As adults we know we are in charge of our own destinies but it’s hard to let go of what has been ingrained into our souls from an early age. It can take life changing events or one little word or action to change our destiny and take us on a new path. A new path that changes the way we perceive ourselves. A door that opens our hearts and allows us to love ourselves just as we are.

Willow has had a low self image all of her life. She has settled for what she perceived would make others happy rather than making herself happy. She has settled for a demeaning job. She has settled with a verbally abusive husband. She has lost herself until the day her husband cheated on her with her younger, perfect sister. That day was the beginning for Willow Tate. It was a long hard journey that led her to finding the once in a lifetime love and learning to love herself. She has become the strong dynamic woman she was meant to be.

Kane always saw the Willow Tate that was hidden beneath the surface. He saw her beautiful soul. He will do everything in his power to earn her trust, love, and acceptance. He will show her everyday how wonderful and beautiful she is inside and out.

Willow and Kane have found each other. Willow has become a strong, confident woman but can she compete with Kane’s past? A past that could destroy their relationship and beat her down once again?

Read Perfectly Imperfect by Harper Sloan. It will change the way you look in the mirror.

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About Harper Sloan

Harper lives in small town Georgia just a short drive from her hometown of Peachtree City. She (and her 3 daughters) enjoy ruling the house they dubbed ‘Estrogen Ocean’, much to her husbands chagrin. Harper has a borderline unhealthy obsession with books; you can almost ALWAYS find her with her eReader attached. She enjoys bad reality TV and cheesy romantic flicks. Her favorite kind of hero–the super alpha kind!

Harper started using writing as a way to unwind when the house went to sleep at night; and with a house full of crazy it was the perfect way to just relax. It didn’t take long before a head full of very demanding alphas would stop at nothing to have their story told.

told.Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Holiday Deal from Harper Collins Publisher : Asa by Jay Crownover – Marked Men Series – Book 6

Posted on 11/24/2015 by shellbellereads

Asa

Marked Men Series – Book 6

By Jay Crownover

Release Date : April 21, 2015

Synopsis

Jay Crownover’s New York Times and USA Today bestselling Marked Men series continues with the much anticipated story of southern charmer and certified criminal Asa Cross.

Starting over in Denver with a whole new circle of friends and family, Asa Cross struggles with being the man he knows everyone wants him to be and the man he knows he really is. A leopard doesn’t it change its spots and Asa has always been a predator. He doesn’t want to hurt those who love and rely on him, especially one luscious arresting cop who suddenly seems to be interested in him for far more than his penchant for breaking the law. But letting go of old habits is hard, and it’s easy to hit bottom when it’s the place you know best.

Royal Hastings is quickly learning what the bottom looks like after a tragic situation at work threatens not only her career but her partner’s life. As a woman who has only ever had a few real friends she’s trying to muddle through her confusion and devastation all alone. Except she can’t stop thinking about the sexy southern bartender she locked up. Crushing on Asa is the last thing she needs but his allure is too strong to resist. His long criminal record can only hurt her already shaky career and chasing after a guy who has no respect for the law or himself can only end in heartbreak.

A longtime criminal and a cop together just seems so wrong . . . but for Asa and Royal, being wrong together is the only right choice to make.

Buy ~ Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

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Michel’s Review

Asa is the bittersweet end of the Marked Men Series by Jay Crownover. Although it is the ending of the series it is also the beginning of Asa Cross. It is his time to grasp a new life and earn the trust and loyalty of those he loves. It’s his chance to prove he can be an honorable man worthy of love.

We met Asa in the second book of the Marked Men series. He was not a good man. He was a criminal, a con man, a liar, and a thief. Everyone he came in contact with he screwed over, including his only family, his sister Ayden. Throughout the series we have watched Asa reach rock bottom and claw his way out of the gutter. In a near death experience that left him physically incapacitated became the turning point in his life. His sister Ayden and her friends took Asa in, showed him the true meaning of friendship, and taught him how to become a decent human being. Rome saw a broken soul that needed mending, it just took a little trust. Now Royal is seeing a man she could love forever.

An ex con and a cop. It shouldn’t work but it does. Royal sees the good in Asa. She respects the man he has become. Asa sees the damaged little girl in Royal and gives her the acceptance she has always craved.

Asa was a beautiful ending for the Marked Men series. It truly portrayed the true meaning of love, friendship, and respect.

Although the Marked Men series has ended there is still more to come from our favorite characters in the new series, The Saints of Denver, which will feature new friends and fellow artist. I can’t wait.

Read the Marked Men Series by Jay Crownover. It is one of my all time favorite series!

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About Jay Crownover:

Jay Crownover is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the Marked Men series. She will also be introducing the dark and sexy world of The Point in a new series this summer starting with ROWDY. Like her characters, she is a big fan of tattoos. She loves music and wishes she could be a rock star, but since she has no aptitude for singing or instrument playing, she’ll settle for writing stories with interesting characters that make the reader feel something. She lives in Colorado with her three dogs.

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Holiday Deal from Harper Collins Publisher : Asa by Jay Crownover – Marked Men Series – Book 6

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