Release Blitz + Excerpt + 5 Star Review: Sacked by Jen Frederick – Gridiron Series – Book 1

Posted on 09/06/2015 by shellbellereads

Sacked

Gridiron Series – Book 1

By Jen Frederick

Release Date : September 6, 2015

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Synopsis

What he wants he gets…

Knox Masters is a quarterback’s worst nightmare. Warrior. Champion. And…virgin. Knox knows what he wants–and he gets it. All American Football player? Check. NFL pros scouting him? Check. Now, he’s set his sight on two things. The national title. And Ellie Campbell. Sure, she’s the sister of his fellow teammate, but that’s not going to stop him. Especially not when he’s convinced Ellie is the one.

…but he’s never met her before.

But Ellie isn’t as sure. She’s trying to start a new life and she’s not interested in a relationship…with anyone. Beside it’s not just her cardinal rule of never dating her brother’s teammates that keeps her away, but Ellie has a dark secret that would jeopardize everything Knox is pursuing.

Knox has no intention of losing. Ellie has no intention of giving in.

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Excerpt

I lock my legs to keep from falling over and pull out the biggest barrel I have. “Masters, there are things about me that if you knew you wouldn’t want to spend another minute in my presence.”

He considers my words, the silence taking on a heaviness and part of me already aches for what I could have if I was just any other girl at Western. “Have you killed anyone?” he finally asks. I can feel his eyes assessing me and I keep my gaze averted afraid of what

I’ll see in his moss green gaze.

“No.”

“Have you slept with my brother?”
“What?” I can’t prevent myself from gawking at Masters, who’s smiling as he asks the question. “No! God, I’ve never even met him!”

“Are you catfishing poor athletes from Auburn? Wait, don’t answer that because I don’t think I’d find that objectionable. Oh, I have it—” He snaps his fingers.

“This isn’t a joke, Masters.”

He tucks a stray piece of hair behind my ear. “Until you tell me what it is, it’s not a reason to be apart either.”

I suck in my lower lip to prevent throwing myself at him and telling him to take me.

“Why?” I ask helplessly.

“Because I like you.”

He grips me by the chin and lays down gentlest, sweetest kiss. In that kiss he tells me everything. That he wants me. That he’s willing to take it slow. That he’s not giving up.

He kisses me as if this is the only thing he wants to do for the next ten hours.

His lips barely move but I can feel everything in me surge toward him. The short wedges
I shoved on this morning suddenly feel precarious. I grip his shoulders to steady myself and then find myself rising up on my tiptoes to press deeper against him. He hauls me flush against him until I can no longer touch the floor.

His one hand palms nearly my entire back while the other angles my head for better access. He may be a virgin, but the guy knows how to kiss. His tongue is finding places inside my mouth that I didn’t even know would feel good.

All the pent up desire that has been boiling in me for days comes pouring out of me. I attack him with my next kiss, biting his lower lip, sucking on his tongue. Against my belly I can feel the hard ridge of his erection.

“God,” I breathe as he abandons my mouth to trace the line of my jaw with his lips. He growls in response and pushes me back against the bookcases but I don’t even mind that the shelves are biting into my back. I just want more.

And he gives it to me. We cling to each other, feeding off of each other’s seemingly endless need until I hear a gasp and then a muted giggle. And those two faint sounds somehow manage to break through the haze of lust and bring with it the realization that

I am in a very public place. I wriggle against him and he sets me down reluctantly.

“We’re in the bookstore,” I say in a scandalized voice.

“You’ve never kissed a guy in the bookstore before?” He grins, the wicked mischievous one I’m beginning to associate with something tremendously naughty. “There’s a first time for everything.”

Michel’s Review

Are you ready for some football? Are you ready for the Gridiron Gods to tackle your heart? Are you ready for the college superstar Knox Masters to score? Are you ready to be Sacked? Jen Fredrick is going to deliver all your Gridiron desires in her new college football series. Knox Masters has scored a 5+ Touchdown in Sacked.

Knox Masters is the god of football. He’s the best player on the team. He’s focused, intense, and takes names on the field. He’s on the fast track to becoming a pro NFL player. Men worship him, scouts want him, and women swoon over him. He has two goals to conquer, the national title and an NFL contract. He has to stay focused and bring his team the victory title. He is Knox Masters… the Gridiron God. He is Knox Masters… The Virgin. He’s not going to let anything stand in his way, even his virginity. Knox Masters is a virgin by choice. He will not lose his focus because of sex. He will know when it’s time. He will not concede until the right woman comes along. He wants his forever woman.

Ellie Campbell has lived under the shadow of the Gridiron all of her life. Her older brother, Jack, has dominated her family’s life with his gifts on the field. Now that she is attending Western she wants to build her own life, with her own friends and not be overshadowed by football. She’s happy to be attending the same university as her brother Jack because they are very close, but she is also happy to start building her own path in life. Dating a football player is not a part of the equation .

When Ellie meets Knox, she knows she’s in trouble. He’s pursuing her with the same intensity that he applies to his football career. Her heart has been Sacked. She should not give in to her desires because she has secrets that could not only ruin her but ruin Knox’s future career. Her secrets could ruin the teams chance at a national championship.

Can Ellie and Knox’s relationship survive the final play in the game? Can Ellie pass the test that will make her “The One” to own Knox’s heart?

Fate has a way of taking over. The heart dictates the game. Love is the only true champion at the end of the day. The rest is just another play in the game of life.

I will not say too much more because this is an emotional story that the reader should experience for themselves. Sacked not only focuses on the main characters but also the other players that are a part of the team. This book highlights the ups and downs as well as the pressure’s that go along with a college football career. It raises awareness of some very real issues that many individuals struggle with daily in life. It also delivers a beautiful romance that goes beyond the bedroom.

Sacked is the perfect start for the Gridiron series by Jen Frederick. Read this book!

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Author Bio:

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

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Release Blitz + Excerpt + 5 Star Review: Under My Skin by J. Kenner – The Stark International Trilogy – Book 3

Posted on 09/03/2015 by shellbellereads

Under My Skin

Stark International Trilogy – Book 3

By J. Kenner

Synopsis

Jackson Steele and Sylvia Brooks are back in the powerful finale of a provocative, sizzling-hot new erotic trilogy set in the world of J. Kenner’s beloved Stark novels: Release Me, Claim Me, and Complete Me.

He’s the only man I’ve ever loved, and the one man I can’t bear to lose.

Jackson Steele is my light in this world. Charismatic, bold, and always in control, he knows what he wants and how to get it—and absolutely nothing stands in his way. His hold on me is magnetic, his claim on me complete, his kiss my ultimate escape.

We both harbor dark secrets that could tear our lives apart. Though we’ve tried to bury our pasts, there are certain people who won’t let us forget. But the closer danger comes, the brighter the fire between us burns—our ecstasy consuming and soothing us both.

There’s no telling what lies ahead, but I know that Jackson never gives in without a fight. I’d do anything he wants to keep him safe, give him anything he needs. And now that we’re in deep, nothing can make me run.

Under My Skin is intended for mature audiences.

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Excerpt

“Take off your clothes.”

I shake my head.

His brow quirks just slightly. “Take off your clothes.” This time, each word is stressed.

I lick my lips. “No.”

The corner of his mouth twitches, and he stands up slowly. “No?”

I meet his eyes defiantly. “I thought you were taking what you wanted.”

“I am,” he says. “What I want is your submission.”

“Oh.”

I see a flash of victory in his eyes before he starts to walk away. “Decide how you want to play the game, sweetheart. But know that I’m only willing to play by my rules.”

He is almost to the steps that lead back to the deck when I call out to him. He turns, his brow raised in silent query.

I slip off my ballet flats. And then, as he slowly walks back toward me, I peel myself out of my jeans, taking my underwear with them. He reaches down, then uses the tip of his finger to lift them off the deck of the boat. “Lace. Very nice.”

“I’m glad you approve.” My voice sounds breathy. I’m standing there in only a T-shirt and bra. The window facing the ocean is open, and the cool night air teases me until I am right there on the edge, waiting to go over, and wanting that push so badly that I’m not sure I can survive the anticipation.

Michel’s Review

Under My Skin by J. Kenner is the third and final book in The Stark International Trilogy. It should not be read as a stand alone novel and should be read in series order.

The Stark International Trilogy has been captivating. This trilogy has everything readers look for in a series. It has a powerful erotic romance between two strong characters. It’s loaded with intrigue, mystery, conflict, and a powerful cast of supporting characters. At the same time it is a tender beautiful romance between two people that have struggled with their pasts.

Under My Skin is the powerful conclusion. On My Knees left off with a doozy of a cliffhanger. Jackson Steele was facing arrest for the murder of Robert Cabot Reed. He was also trying to get full custody of his young daughter. The impending arrest could affect the outcome of his parental rights. The arrest could alert the media of the reasons behind his extreme protests against the movie being made about a painful part of his past. If this is exposed not only will it hurt his daughter but will also make him look all the more guilty for the murder of Robert Cabot Reed. It could also expose Sylvia’s dark secrets and her connection to Robert Cabot Reed. It may very well be the final straw that destroys the Cortez Project. His house is of cards is falling down. His life is falling apart and he’s fighting to save the two most important people in his life.

This book was intense, heart breaking, emotional, and a page turner. It kept the reader on the edge of their seats. When all the revelations are made and all of the emotional battles are hard won, Jackson and Sylvia are finally going to get their happily ever after.

J. Kenner did a magnificent job with her delivery of The Stark International trilogy. She created a story and charismatic characters that left the readers wanting more. She gave a final resolution that will leave the readers more than satisfied.

I highly recommend The Stark International Trilogy. Under My Skin is the powerful conclusion.

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The Stark International Trilogy

Say My Name – Book 1

“>New York Times bestselling author J. Kenner kicks off a smoking hot, emotionally compelling new trilogy that returns to the world of her beloved Stark novels: Release Me, Claim Me, and Complete Me. Say My Name features Jackson Steele, a strong-willed man who goes after what he wants, and Sylvia Brooks, a disciplined woman who’s hard to get—and exactly who Jackson needs.

I never let anyone get too close—but he’s the only man who’s ever made me feel alive.

Meeting Jackson Steele was a shock to my senses. Confident and commanding, he could take charge of any room . . . or any woman. And Jackson wanted me. The mere sight of him took my breath away, and his touch made me break all my rules.

Our bond was immediate, our passion untamed. I wanted to surrender completely to his kiss, but I couldn’t risk his knowing the truth about my past. Yet Jackson carried secrets too, and in our desire we found our escape, pushing our boundaries as far as they could go.

Learning to trust is never easy. In my mind, I knew I should run. But in my heart, I never felt a fire this strong—and it could either save me or scorch me forever.

Say My Name is intended for mature audiences.

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On My Knees – Book 2

Jackson Steele and Sylvia Brooks continue to thrill in the second novel of a scintillating, emotionally charged new trilogy that returns to the world of J. Kenner’s beloved Stark novels: Release Me, Claim Me, and Complete Me.

I never thought I’d lose control, but his desire took me right to the edge.

Powerful, ambitious, and devastatingly sexy, Jackson Steele was unlike any other man I’d ever known. He went after what he wanted with his whole mind, body, and soul—and I was the woman in his sights. One touch and I surrendered, one night together and I was undone.

Jackson and I had secrets, dark pieces of our pasts that threatened to swallow us both. We couldn’t outrun our demons, or the people trying to tear us apart. But in our passion we found salvation, and in each other’s arms we found release.

I was scared to trust Jackson fully, to finally let go. Yet no matter the dangers that lay ahead, I knew I was his—and now that we’ve laid claim, there’s no more holding back.

On My Knees is intended for mature audiences.

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Under My Skin – Book 3

He’s the only man I’ve ever loved, and the one man I can’t bear to lose.

Under My Skin is intended for mature audiences.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

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Author Bio:

J. Kenner spent more than ten years as a litigator in Southern California and Central Texas, using her rare free time to indulge her passion for writing. California born, she now lives—and writes—in Texas, with her husband and daughters.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Release Blitz + 5 Star Review: Under My Skin by J. Kenner – The Stark International Trilogy – Book 3

Posted on 09/01/2015 by shellbellereads

Under My Skin

Stark International Trilogy – Book 3

By J. Kenner

Synopsis

He’s the only man I’ve ever loved, and the one man I can’t bear to lose.

Under My Skin is intended for mature audiences.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Excerpt

She slams the door shut, the limo pulls back out onto the street, and I am left beside Jackson who sits perfectly, dangerously still.

I swallow, my skin prickling from the rising heat.

I’m breathing hard, my breasts rising and falling. My skin is warm, and beads of perspiration have gathered at the nape of my neck.

He turns his head slowly, his eyes meeting mine, wild and feral and hard. There’s a hungry glint to them, and for a moment I fear that he will tear me to pieces. That I will truly stand as proxy for the bastards who leaked the news. For the fear that I know must be consuming him, just as it is consuming me.

But haven’t I repeatedly told him that I can handle it, no matter how bad it gets? That I will be his release valve, his safety net?

That I’ll willingly take in his pain—and then we’ll turn it around into passion.

I am still holding his gaze, and I feel locked in place simply from the force of his will. He has not touched me, and though we haven’t spoken, I know that he will not until I acquiesce. Not tonight. Not when he needs to push. To go as far as he needs, and then some.

“Yes,” I say.

A muscle twitches in his cheek, but he doesn’t otherwise move, nor does he say a word to me. He simply watches me for one beat, then another. It is as if he is sizing me up, testing my resolve. I stay where I am, looking back at him. But slowly—very slowly—I part my thighs.

Jackson sucks in a breath through his nose. Then he twists at the waist so that he can reach the intercom button. He jams his finger down on it.

“Don’t go home, Edward.” His voice is hard. Tight with control. “Just drive. I don’t care where. Just drive until I tell you to stop.”

Michel’s Review

Under My Skin by J. Kenner is the third and final book in The Stark International Trilogy. It should not be read as a stand alone novel and should be read in series order.

I highly recommend The Stark International Trilogy. Under My Skin is the powerful conclusion.

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The Stark International Trilogy

Say My Name – Book 1

I never let anyone get too close—but he’s the only man who’s ever made me feel alive.

Learning to trust is never easy. In my mind, I knew I should run. But in my heart, I never felt a fire this strong—and it could either save me or scorch me forever.

Say My Name is intended for mature audiences.

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

On My Knees – Book 2

I never thought I’d lose control, but his desire took me right to the edge.

I was scared to trust Jackson fully, to finally let go. Yet no matter the dangers that lay ahead, I knew I was his—and now that we’ve laid claim, there’s no more holding back.

On My Knees is intended for mature audiences.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Under My Skin – Book 3

He’s the only man I’ve ever loved, and the one man I can’t bear to lose.

Under My Skin is intended for mature audiences.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

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Author Bio:

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Happy Release + 5 Star Review: Too Hard To Handle by Julie Ann Walker – Black Knights, Inc. Series – Book 8

Posted on 08/31/2015 by shellbellereads

Too Hard To Handle

Black Knights, Inc. Series – Book 8

By Julie Ann Walker

Synopsis

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Julie Ann Walker continues her red-hot Black Knights Inc. series in rough-and-tumble Peru

“The Man” is back
Dan “The Man” Currington is back in fighting form with a mission that takes him four thousand miles south of BKI headquarters, high in the Andes Mountains of Peru. He’s hot on the trail of a rogue CIA agent selling classified government secrets to the highest bidder, when Penni DePaul arrives on the scene. Suddenly the stakes are higher, and keeping Penni safe becomes Dan’s number one priority.

And this time she’s ready
A lot has changed since former Secret Service Agent Penni DePaul last saw Dan. Now a civilian, she’s excited about what the future might hold. But before she can grab onto that future with both hands, she has to tie up some loose ends-namely, Dan Currington, the man she just can’t forget. And a secret that’s going to change both their lives-if they can stay alive, that is.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Michel’s Review

Julie Ann Walker has another winner in The Black Knights, Inc. Series. The diehard fans of this series have been waiting for Too Hard To Handle for quite awhile. Too Hard To Handle does not disappoint.

Too Hard To Handle is the eighth book in the series. New readers can easily pick this book up and read it as a stand alone novel. It does not have to be read in series order although I would strongly recommend reading the entire series for a more involved reading experience.

We met Dan “The Man ” Currington in the first book of the series, Hell On Wheels. He experienced the tragic loss of his wife. Throughout the series Dan has been dealing with his loss and grief. He has struggled with moving on in his life. He’s lost himself in booze and self destruction. Throughout the series ( 7 books ) readers have gotten to experience Dan’s life and were left with a bitter taste. By the time book seven released, readers were more than anxious for Dan to get his own story. Dan is ready to pull his life out of the gutter. He’s ready to become a part of the living. Julie Ann Walker listened to the readers and introduced Dan to Penni DePaul in Full Throttle.

A high staked adventure in Peru will bring Penni and Dan together. They just have to stay alive to get their happily ever after.

Once again Julie Ann Walker has delivered a sexy ,fast paced, high adreline book that has a dynamic romance heating up the pages. Too Hard To Handle is a solid 5 Star book!

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Author Bio:

Julie Ann Walker is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of award-winning romantic suspense. She has won the Book Buyers Best Award, been nominated for the National Readers Choice Award, the Australian Romance Reader Awards, and the Romance Writers of America’s prestigious RITA award. Her latest release was named a Top Ten Romance of 2014 by Booklist. Her books have been described as “alpha, edgy, and downright hot.” Most days you can find her on her bicycle along the lake shore in Chicago or blasting away at her keyboard, trying to wrangle her capricious imagination into submission.

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Release Blitz + 5 Star Review: Sustained by Emma Chase – Legal Briefs Series – Book 2

Posted on 08/25/2015 by shellbellereads

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Sustained

Legal Briefs Series- Book Two

Release Date: August 25, 2015

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes

A knight in tarnished armor is still a knight.

When you’re a defense attorney in Washington, DC, you see firsthand how hard life can be, and that sometimes the only way to survive is to be harder. I, Jake Becker, have a reputation for being cold, callous, and intimidating—and that suits me just fine. In fact, it’s necessary when I’m breaking down a witness on the stand.

Complications don’t work for me—I’m a “need-to-know” type of man. If you’re my client, tell me the basic facts. If you’re my date, stick to what will get you off. I’m not a therapist or Prince Charming—and I don’t pretend to be.

Then Chelsea McQuaid and her six orphaned nieces and nephews came along and complicated the ever-loving hell out of my life. Now I’m going to Mommy & Me classes, One Direction concerts, the emergency room, and am knee deep in a damn compost pit.

Chelsea’s too sweet, too innocent, and too gorgeous for her own good. She tries to be tough, but she’s not. She needs someone to help her, and defend her…and the kids.

And that—that, I know how to do.

Excerpt

Chelsea’s skin radiates the flushed, cheery glow of alcohol. Her eyes are hooded and happy but shield her thoughts, making her harder to read than usual. She leans back in her chair, regarding me, running her finger around the rim of her glass. “So if you started out as such a troubled youth, how did you become”-she gestures to me-“this? Successful. Honorable. Respectable.”
I pour the last of the wine into my glass. “ ‘Respectable’ is probably pushing it a little bit…but the story goes like this: I was fifteen, running around with some real dipshits. Older guys. One night we thought it’d be brilliant to break into a sporting goods store, because that’s the kind of losers we were, only I didn’t know one of them was carrying. He ended up shooting a guard in the leg.”
Chelsea gasps just a little.
And my cock twitches a lot.
“We ran out the back, right into the arms of a waiting squad car.” I shake my head at the idiot I was. “The prosecutor wanted to charge me as an adult, send me away for serious time-and he could have. I had a hot temper and a record, and aside from my mother, I thought the whole goddamn world was my enemy.”
Chelsea leans forward, completely enthralled. “So what happened?”
“The Honorable Atticus Faulkner happened. He was the juvenile judge on my case-a big, mean, scary son of a bitch. And he…thought he saw something worthy in me. So he kept me in juvenile court- gave me community service and probation, to be supervised by the hard-ass himself.” I chuckle. “At the time, I thought the judge was doing me a favor-going easy on me.”
“He wasn’t?”
“Depends on your definition of ‘easy.’ For the next few years I trimmed grass by hand with fucking garden shears. I carried boulders, scrubbed floors, reshingled the goddamn roof-real Mr. Miyagi, wax-on-wax-off kind of shit. He rode my ass-nothing was ever good enough. It made me want to do everything better, just to fucking spite the bastard. And then…he had me start doing research. Studying case law, drafting briefs, analyzing opinions-it was fascinating to me. When my probation was up, the Judge offered me a job. By then I’d gotten my head out of my ass and was actually scoring decent grades in high school. With his recommendation and a shitload of student loans, I got through college, then law school…and that’s all she wrote.”
“I think that’s amazing,” she says softly, watching me.
“Yeah-the Judge is a pretty amazing guy.”
Her lips slide into a gentle smile and something like awe shines in her eyes. “I was talking about you.”
I’m hardly ever taken off guard. Surprised. But this stunning wisp of a woman just did exactly that.
Chelsea turns her head toward the piano music floating in from the other room. “I love this song.”
It’s a Van Morrison cover-“Crazy Love.”
I toss my napkin on the table and move to stand next to her, holding out my hand. “Would you like to dance?” And I can tell I just surprised her too. The simple delight on her face when her hand slides into mine makes me want to do it again.
We step out onto the edge of the dance floor. I wrap my arm around her lower back, holding her tight and flush against me. One of Chelsea’s hands rests on my shoulder, toying with the hair at the nape of my neck. The other is clasped in mine just over my heart. We sway, just looking at each other for a few moments.
“I was going to ask you to dance,” she tells me. “But you don’t seem like the type who would’ve said yes.”
“I’m not,” I answer, staring at her lush moth. “I was just using it as an excuse to be closer to you.”
She give me love, love, love, love, crazy love.
She sighs, practically sinks into my arms. Chelsea’s head fits against my chest like she was made to be there. My chin rests against her hair, and I smell clean and sweet vanilla.
“Hey, Jake?”
“Yeah?”
Chelsea lifts her head from my chest. “You don’t need an excuse.”
I lower my head at the same moment she reaches up for me. And her lips-fuck-they’re warms, soft, and move with such innocent daring, I’m practically trembling. Was it just last night that I first kissed her? It seems longer ago. I cup her cheek, stroking her skin with my thumb, kissing deeper, tasting wine and the moan I’ve been obsessing over all night.
And the absolute craziest part of it all? I haven’t gotten laid in three goddamn weeks, but if this is all we do-kissing, with her against me, my arms around her-I’ll be grinning in the morning like a guy who banged a whole sorority house full of cheerleaders.
I’m hoping for more. I want everything-all the secret, sweetest parts of her-but if this is all I get to have tonight? It’s enough.
She give me love, love, love, love, crazy love…

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Michel’s Review

I am just going to shout out….I LOVE EMMA CHASE !!!!

EMMA CHASE ROCKS!

Sustained by Emma Chase is the second book in the Legal Briefs series. I loved the first book, Overruled and didn’t think she could top it. I did not give her enough credit because not only did she top Overruled but had me falling head over heels in love with Jake Becker from Sustained. Jake Becker was just as entertaining as Drew Evans from the Tangled series. One moment I was wanting to wring his neck and the next moment he was making my heart burst.

Jake Becker is a hardened defense attorney on the fast track of making partner in the prestigious firm he works for in Washington D.C.. He’s learned to be tougher than his clients and has desensitized himself. He may be brash, appear callous, and come across as heartless but beneath the surface there is this whole other guy that most people will never see. He lives his life by certain rules. One of those rules is to avoid all romantic attachments. He loves sex and has one night stands frequently. When a one night stand goes wrong and weeks later he finds out he may have caught a venereal disease it changes his outlook on dating.

After weeks without sex he’s a bit cranky. When a smart mouthed little kid bumps into him and steals his wallet, he is downright pissed. When he meets the little brats guardian, Chelsea McQuaid he is mesmerized and his gavel is standing at attention until he realizes that there are five more little people lurking. He should turn around and run as fast as he can. But we all know how best intentions go, yeah they go down the drain.

Not only will Jake fall head over heels for Chelsea, he is going to fall in love with six precious little people that he will defend with his life. He will learn the true meaning of love in every form. He will learn to change a diaper, weather a One Direction concert, bet on Mommy & Me classes, and take on the evil wicked parents of an elite school. Is one woman worth it? Chelsea McQuaid is worth that and so much more.

Sustained was delightful! I laughed and swooned. Jake Decker makes Stanton Shaw and Drew Evans look like wannabe’s.

I highly recommend Sustained and Overruled. Each book can be read as a stand alone novel or in series order. I can’t wait for the next book. Appealed will release in November. I don’t think Brent Mason can top Jake Decker but knowing Emma Chase I could very well be wrong.

The Legal Briefs Series

Overruled – Book 1

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

A Washington, DC, defense attorney, Stanton Shaw keeps his head cool, his questions sharp, and his arguments irrefutable. They don’t call him the Jury Charmer for nothing—with his southern drawl, disarming smile, and captivating green eyes, he’s a hard man to say no to. Men want to be him, and women want to be thoroughly cross examined by him.

Stanton’s a man with a plan. And for a while, life was going according to that plan.

Until the day he receives an invitation to the wedding of his high school sweetheart, the mother of his beloved ten-year-old daughter. Jenny is getting married—to someone who isn’t him.

That’s definitely not part of the plan.

***

Sofia Santos is a city-raised, no-nonsense litigator who plans to become the most revered criminal defense attorney in the country. She doesn’t have time for relationships or distractions.

But when Stanton, her “friend with mind-blowing benefits,” begs her for help, she finds herself out of her element, out of her depth, and obviously out of her mind. Because she agrees to go with him to The-Middle-Of-Nowhere, Mississippi, to do all she can to help Stanton win back the woman he loves. Her head tells her she’s crazy…and her heart says something else entirely.

What happens when you mix a one-stop-light town, two professional arguers, a homecoming queen, four big brothers, some Jimmy Dean sausage, and a gun-toting Nana?

The Bourbon flows, passions rise, and even the best-laid plans get overruled by the desires of the heart.

Sustained – Book Two

Coming August 25, 2015

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes

A knight in tarnished armor is still a knight.

Chelsea’s too sweet, too innocent, and too gorgeous for her own good. She tries to be tough, but she’s not. She needs someone to help her, and defend her…and the kids.

And that—that, I know how to do.

Appealed – Book Three

Coming November 17, 2015

Pre- Order : Amazon / B & N / Kobo

When Brent Mason looks at Kennedy Randolph, he doesn’t see the awkward, sweet girl who grew up next door. He sees a self-assured, stunning woman…who wants to crush the most intimate—and prized—parts of his anatomy beneath the heels of her Louboutins.

When Kennedy looks at Brent, all she sees is the selfish, Abercrombie & Fitch catalogue–worthy teenager who humiliated her in high school in order to join the popular crowd. A crowd that made those years a living hell for her.

But she’s not a lovesick social outcast anymore—she’s a Washington, DC, prosecutor with a long winning streak. Brent is the opposing attorney in her next case, and Kennedy thinks it’s time to put him through a little hell of his own.

But things aren’t exactly working out the way she planned. Brent has his sights set on Kennedy, and every fiery exchange only makes him want her more—and makes her wonder if he’s as passionate in the bedroom as he is in the courtroom. In the end, they may just find themselves in love…or in contempt of court.

Author Bio:

By day, Emma Chase is a devoted wife and mother who resides in a small, rural town in New Jersey. By night she toils away the hours bringing her colorful characters and their endless antics to life. She has a long standing love/hate relationship with caffeine.

Emma is an avid reader. Before her children were born she was known to consume whole books in a single day. Writing has also always been a passion and with the 2013 release of her debut romantic comedy, Tangled, the ability to now call herself an author is nothing less than a dream come true.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Release Blitz + 5 Star Review: End of Day by Jewel E. Ann – Jack and Jill Series – Book 1

Posted on 08/20/2015 by shellbellereads

End of Day

Jack and Jill Series – Book 1

By Jewel E. Ann

Release Date: August 17, 2015

Synopsis:

Earth to earth, ashes to ashes, dust to dust; in the sure and certain hope of the Resurrection to eternal life.

Four caskets. Two bodies.

Jessica and Jude Day witness their funeral and that of their parents a few yards away from mourning family and friends. Stripped of the only life they’ve ever known, the Days say goodbye to San Francisco forever.

Four months later, two thirty-year-old misfits with elite self-defense skills and penchants for alcohol, sex, and trouble arrive like an earthquake to Peaceful Woods, a retirement community in Omaha, Nebraska, that thrives on rules and gossip. Welcome home, Jackson and Jillian Knight.

Jackson celebrates his new beginning by embracing his job and wiping his cavalier past clean with a temporary oath of celibacy. But Jillian’s past is branded into her soul—the deaths, the insanity, Dr. Luke Jones, and the need to make her lovers bleed. Her chance for redemption comes in the form of a next door neighbor, one Senior Master Sergeant Monaghan. He’s sexy, dangerously alluring, and riddled with emotional issues from years of service. He’s also … So. Damn. Grumpy.

Their mission is simple: Let go, start over, don’t kill anyone, and pray that nobody wakes the dead.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Excerpt

“Have you ever killed anyone?”

Jessica’s smile slipped. “If I told you then I’d have to kill you.”

“So you’re a secret agent?”

She flipped onto her stomach, resting her chin on her crossed arms. “If I said yes then it would no longer be a secret. Come on, Jones, you’re losing your focus. Don’t let me feel smarter than you or our time together will be over and I rather like hanging out here.”

“Luke,” he corrected.

“Lucas.”

“Luke.”

“Lukey.”

“LUKE!”

“Lulu.”

“I mean it!” Luke showed another rare moment of teetering emotion.

Jessica chuckled. “What are the chances of us having sex? I’ve never done it missionary, but you could possibly counsel me through it.”

He refocused on his crossword puzzle, filling in a word in pen. “Less than zero percent.”

“So, not in my favor, eh?

“Why not missionary?”

Jessica smiled in delight that Luke continued with the topic of conversation. “I’m sure you already know, but if you want me to say I need control, then sure, I need control. But the truth is I’d control any sex position you want to put me in.” Jessica winked as Luke gave her a fleeting glance. “I just don’t want you thinking you have control, even if I know it’s not the case. Pisses me off to see the smirk on a guy’s face when he thinks he has control.”

“Tell me why you need control.” Luke continued with his crossword.

“In bed?”

“Yes.”

“Someone has to have it.”

“Why?”

“Because someone initiates it.”

“So if I initiate sex with you will I have control?”

“There’s only one way to find out.” Jessica wiggled her eyebrows at an ill-humored Luke.

__________________________

Michel’s Review

When I began reading End of Day by Jewel E. Ann, I had expectations that this was a paranormal type of book. I was completely off base. End of Day is a contemporary novel that may or may not be a dark thriller or it could be a dark romance. Or it could be something else entirely. It is in a class by itself, completely unique.

At first I had my doubts about this book. It was a slow start but once the it got going I was completely entangled in it’s web. It all begins when Jude and Jessica Day are witnessing their own funerals. Tragic circumstances in their lives have led them to fake their deaths,completely walk away from their old lives, and begin new ones. It is apparent they are in a witness protection type of program. These quirky, driven, successful twins become Jackson and Jillian Knight. Their new personas are completely different from who they were in their old lives. They chose to move to Nebraska. They chose a quiet senior citizen community to live in. The only thing exciting that happens within Peaceful Woods is taking the trash out on the wrong day or cutting the grass one inch too short.

Their new nosy neighbors are intrigued, enchanted, charmed, and curious about their new neighbors. They have charmed the community with the exception of their immediate neighbor, another younger resident in the community.

Senior Master Sergeant AJ Manoghan has lived in this quiet, peaceful community for quite a few years. He craves the nature of routine life and structured community. His new neighbors are beyond belief. They are brash, repulsive, noisy, immoral, and do not belong in Peaceful Woods. Especially Jill, the blonde bombshell sexpot that exposes her assets at every opportunity.

The neighbor wars begin. Jillian and AJ have declared war but beneath the surface they are insanely attracted to one another. Now this should be the meaty part of the story, the sizzling hot love affair and the red hot chemistry between the two. But no… this affair is only going to scratch the surface of this story.

AJ appears to be an uptight man with a stick up his butt. But appearances aren’t all that they are cracked up to be. AJ has issues with PTSD. He has a sketchy family background that indicates he may be a bit more unstable.

Jillian is an absolute contradiction. She appears to be this wild, somewhat slutty woman that lives by her whims rather than plans and direction. Beneath the surface she is a caring and sensitive woman. She also has some serious mental issues that may or may not be dangerous. She has a past that is questionable. She is also mourning the loss of her former lover & psychiatrist Dr. Luke Jones.

Jackson knows all of Jillian’s secrets. On one hand he tries to direct her in a positive manner. On the other hand he is allowing her to create a new life. No matter what he will stand by his twin sisters side.

Both Jackson and Jillian have a ton of secrets. There is the reason they are in Peaceful Woods. What happened that made them walk away from their lives? What kind of danger is lurking? Jillian has some serious demons that stem from something that happened in her past. Jackson also has some serious secrets lurking. And finally AJ rounds the secret circle out, he has his own secrets lurking around the corner.

Meanwhile they are living amongst the friendly senior citizens of Peaceful Woods.

This book ended on a major cliffhanger that has the reader screaming for more.

Jewel E. Ann is a brilliant writer and creates quirky characters living in a world only she could create. She is a master of blending romance, suspense, and erotic moments that leave the reader breathless. I loved how she played upon the characters identities with the Day and Knight and the Jack and Jill. Very creative! I can’t wait to see what happens next in Middle of Knight.

_________________________________________________________________

Author Bio

Jewel is a free-spirited romance junkie with a quirky sense of humor.

With 10 years of flossing lectures under her belt, she took early retirement from her dental hygiene career to stay home with her three awesome boys and manage the family business.

After her best friend of nearly 30 years suggested a few books from the Contemporary Romance genre, Jewel was hooked. Devouring two and three books a week but still craving more, she decided to practice sustainable reading, AKA writing.

When she’s not donning her cape and saving the planet one tree at a time, she enjoys yoga with friends, good food with family, rock climbing with her kids, watching How I Met Your Mother reruns, and of course…heart-wrenching, tear-jerking, panty-scorching novels.

GIVEAWAY

Maya Custom Design (by winner) Timbuk2 bag ($100 value)

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Release Blitz + 5 Star Review: Laid Out by Sidney Halston – Worth The Fight Series – Book 4

Posted on 08/18/2015 by shellbellereads

Laid Out

Worth The Fight Series – Book 4

By Sidney Halston

Synopsis

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.

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Excerpt

She was kicking a rock out of the way when Cain grabbed her hand and pulled her to a nearby tree, causing her to yelp as she struggled to keep her balance. At nineteen, Cain was thin and lanky—all limbs. She was still short and stumpy. He turned her around brusquely and pressed her back against a tree, the bark digging into her. She looked up at him and saw an intensity in his eyes she’d never seen before. His cheeks were flushed and the vein by his neck pulsed. Suddenly she became nervous. He’d never looked at her this way—the way the cute guys looked at the pretty girls.

Lately she’d felt flustered when Jeremy was nearby, with his mess of curly dark brown hair and dimpled smile. Feelings that hadn’t been there before were now creeping in. In fact, she could’ve sworn Jeremy had been flirting with her lately—complimenting her clothes and hair, brushing against her “accidentally,” inviting her to the movies without Cain around. But these brief flirtatious moments were with Jeremy. Not with Cain. Never with Cain. Cain was just her friend. A little gangly, a little quiet, a lot overprotective.

That was until now.

Suddenly there was an awareness that had never been there before.

When he licked his lips, her pulse sped up. A foreign feeling—desire—began to take root. He reached toward her hair, and she flinched a little before he tucked a stray strand behind her ear. The tender action surprised her. For the first time, she noticed how clear his blue eyes were, how his hair was so blond it almost looked white. All of a sudden, he didn’t seem like just this boy who was always around. Unfamiliar feelings began to erupt throughout her body. She felt her cheeks flame and her heart race.

When he finally spoke, his voice shook a little. “I’m your friend because I want to be your friend. Not because of your parents or your dumb threats. I don’t like it when you call yourself fat. You’re not fat.”

She nodded and murmured, “Okay.” She drew her lower lip into her mouth and nibbled as her wide eyes gazed at his. Cain reached over and pulled her lip out of her mouth. “You’re nervous.” It wasn’t a question. He knew her well enough to be aware of her tells.

“I . . . uh . . . what are you doing, Cain?”

“I don’t want you to kiss just anyone to get it outta the way.”

Words failed her, so she just nodded again. There was a moment where neither spoke. He just looked at her as if trying to decide on his next move.

“I should be the first person you kiss,” he finally said as his tongue flicked out a little and wet his lips.

She gasped and looked up into his eyes nervously. His eyes never left hers, but his reddened ears and neck showed that he was also nervous. She too knew him well.

Like a fool, she bobbed her head up and down mostly because the words were stuck in her throat. It felt like he stared at her lips for an eternity until he finally leaned forward, causing her to press herself further back against the tree, her hands gripping the bark. He tilted his head to the side and she imitated the action.

Should I open my mouth? Leave it closed? What about my tongue? What should it be doing?

Softly, almost feather light, his lips brushed against hers. Her eyes instinctively closed tight, and she stopped breathing. It was less than ten seconds but it was forever. In that moment she fell into the category of girls who’d had their first kiss. She kept her eyes closed for far too long, and when she opened them he was standing upright, his face even more flushed. Her own tongue snuck out of her mouth to taste her lips. She swallowed and looked at him, her eyes as wide as saucers. What just happened?

Then, with the same intensity in his expression, he leaned back down, but this time he pressed harder against her lips causing her lips to part slightly. His body moved closer to hers, and then she felt his hands grip her waist and his tongue touch her lips before it moved into her mouth and brushed hers for a brief second, his fingers digging into her skin at her waist. She instinctively melded into him, her body seeking him out.

Again he moved away and looked at her. His expression never changed, and neither did hers. Her eyes were wide; she touched her lips, as if to determine whether the kiss had really happened. They just looked at each other, neither saying anything, her heart beating so loudly she was sure he could hear it. Finally she spoke and said the only thing that came to mind. “Wow, my cup runneth over,” she whispered. It was a phrase he teased her about constantly, but it was exactly how she felt: she could barely contain her happiness.

He chuckled, and the smile did her in: she threw her arms around his neck and kissed him. Hard. He wrapped his arms around her waist and walked them the half step back against the tree again. Their noses bumped. It was awkward, but as first kisses went . . . it was perfect.

“Happy Valentine’s Day, Vi.” It was the last thing he said to her before leaving for war.

_________________________________________________________________________

Michel’s Review

5 Stars

I am a huge fan of the Worth The Fight Series by Sidney Halston. The WtF members, their better halves, and wacky animals are taking over Tarpon Springs, a small town in Florida. This series has captured my heart. Each and every character, whether it be human or animal has a story to tell.

Readers have come to know Cain Sorensen as the mysterious, silent fighter at WtF. He is part of the gym’s backbone. His fighting expertise and quiet nature has intrigued the readers. His mysterious job that takes him away from the gym adds to the intrigue. When he is around, he is completely focused on his training and support of the other fighters at WtF. His quiet self assured presence has earned him the respect of the other fighters. When he does talk, it’s with purpose, wisdom, and quite profound. But when Violet Channing shows up in Tarpon Springs, the WtF crew is going to see Cain Sorensen lose his cool and self assured confidence for the first time. They sense there is a history there. They are extremely curious ( in other words- downright nosey) about Violet and Cain’s past. They are more than ready to welcome Violet into the exclusive WtF family.

Violet and Cain grew up together. They were military brats and raised in very regimented families. Their fathers served together throughout their military careers. They were the best of friends. They also had another best friend, Jeremy, that shared their childhood and history. The three of them were inseparable until Violet turned sixteen . Cain and Jeremy shipped out to war. Violet was left behind to finish high school on her own. That moment in time changed all three of their lives forever.

Twelve years later Cain and Violet are reunited once again. Both of them has changed drastically. Cain became closed off and even more reserved. Violet has become independent and strong. No matter how much both of them have changed, their deep friendship is still the most important thing to both of them.

Violet is ready to move on in life and settle down. She feels awkward in the dating field. Cain has promised to help her out. But what happens when the friendship starts turning into something more? What do they do with this desire they have for one another? It can never work. Violet is too good for Cain. Cain has too many secrets. They no longer have Jeremy as a buffer between them? Will they find their lives together or once again torn apart?

Laid Out was quite different from the previous books in this series. The story revolves around their past in Texas. Rather than revolving around the gym, the WtF crew, and Tarpon Springs this story takes the reader into Violet and Cain’s anguished past. When they go back to Texas to face their past it will open the doors for their new beginning in Tarpon Springs. Rather than having the crazy alpha Chihuahua Drogo scaring the crap out of all the men in this series or fluffy little kittens owning some allergic fighters hearts, we meet a cursing Parrot named Bird. As in Bird’s own words…well I just can’t repeat them!

Laid Out was more than a friends to lover romance, it was a coming of age story blended with a story of forgiveness and acceptance. I absolutely loved this book! It touched my heart in many ways. Sidney Halston can write a book!

Read Laid Out! It can be read in series order or as a stand alone novel.

____________________________________________________________

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.

BUY NOW

Amazon | B& N | iTunes

______________________________________________________________________

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

Release Blitz + 5 Star Review + Giveaway: Before We Were Strangers by Renee Carlino

Posted on 08/18/2015 by shellbellereads

From the USA TODAY bestselling author of Sweet Thing and Nowhere But Here comes a love story about a Craigslist “missed connection” post that gives two people a second chance at love fifteen years after they were separated in New York City.

To the Green-eyed Lovebird:

We met fifteen years ago, almost to the day, when I moved my stuff into the NYU dorm room next to yours at Senior House.

You called us fast friends. I like to think it was more.

We lived on nothing but the excitement of finding ourselves through music (you were obsessed with Jeff Buckley), photography (I couldn’t stop taking pictures of you), hanging out in Washington Square Park, and all the weird things we did to make money. I learned more about myself that year than any other.

Yet, somehow, it all fell apart. We lost touch the summer after graduation when I went to South America to work for National Geographic. When I came back, you were gone. A part of me still wonders if I pushed you too hard after the wedding…

I didn’t see you again until a month ago. It was a Wednesday. You were rocking back on your heels, balancing on that thick yellow line that runs along the subway platform, waiting for the F train. I didn’t know it was you until it was too late, and then you were gone. Again. You said my name; I saw it on your lips. I tried to will the train to stop, just so I could say hello.

After seeing you, all of the youthful feelings and memories came flooding back to me, and now I’ve spent the better part of a month wondering what your life is like. I might be totally out of my mind, but would you like to get a drink with me and catch up on the last decade and a half?

AMAZON *** BARNES & NOBLE *** iBooks

Robin’s Review

I knew it would have to be a very special story to surpass my love for Sweet Thing, but I now have a new Renee Carlino favorite! Before We Were Strangers has all of the characteristics that I love to see in a contemporary romance. I love the friends-to-lovers scenario, and if it is done right, they can be so very satisfying. Carlino had me wrapped around her little finger with Matt and Gracie. I just love how they dance around each other as their feelings for each other evolve. Before We Were Strangers is also a second chance romance. These are characters that I absolutely adore, and I fell in love with them, their relationship, not once, but twice.

In many ways, Matthias William Shore and Graceland Marie Starr are a typical college couple. They meet at the beginning of their senior year at NYU. They are kindred, free spirits. A photographer and cellist, both having extremely artistic souls. Their relationship is lighthearted and sweet. Matt and Gracie are fast friends, confidants, and before the year is over, lovers. It is a whirlwind year, but graduation closes in around Matt and Gracie, and they are pulled in separate directions. Fast forward fifteen years. Matt and Gracie have been living completely separate lives. That is, until the day Matt sees Gracie on the subway train that is pulling away, and his heart aches to reconnect with her.

There is something very special about Matt and Gracie, and more specifically, how these two interact to each other. Their college relationship is playful, and their personalities are buoyant. They enjoy each other’s friendship, but there is a real tension which sparks between them. In reality, they face problems like all college kids do, but it’s the way they respond to their problems which sets this couple apart. I really connected with these characters, and I found myself fully invested in their story. I felt all of the emotions you are supposed to feel when you read a really good book – everything from pure joy to sadness and loss.

Renee Carlino included some very profound passages in Before We Were Strangers. You’ll find beautiful descriptions, including one which stood out to me that describes the intensity and importance of the first time you feel loved by another person. Another excerpt that caught my attention focuses on the passing of time. So many of us spend too much time focusing on memories or looking forward to the future, and we miss out on the beauty and opportunities of the now. Renee Carlino inserted a ton of wisdom into this story. Her writing has always been exceptional, but in my opinion, it continues to strengthen with each new novel. The writing in Before We Were Strangers is Carlino’s best yet.

I have nothing but positive things to say about Before We Were Strangers. It’s a solid 5-star novel. That’s the truth. It’s firmly on my list of 2015 favorites, and it may even make my top novels at the end of year. I highly recommend this contemporary romance!

Renée Carlino is a screenwriter and bestselling author of romantic women’s novels. She lives in Southern California with her husband, two sons, and their sweet dog June. When she’s not at the beach with her boys or
working on her next project, she likes to spend her time reading, going to
concerts, and eating dark chocolate.

FACEBOOK WEBSITE TWITTER INSTAGRAM

Giveaway

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/share-code/ZmI3ZDdhMzc3MTRjYzM5OTBkOWY1YmM5NmQ5OWMyOjE=/?

And a cute Missed Connections Link that is a great companion piece that you can use:
http://enterprise.supadu.com/images/ckfinder/26/files/sam-graham/48138-BeforeWeWereStrangers-MissedConnectionAd.jpg

Release Blitz + 5 Star Review: The Darkest Flame by Christina Lee – Roadmap To Your Heart Series – Book 1

Posted on 08/17/2015 by shellbellereads

The Darkest Flame

Roadmap To Your Heart Series – Book 1

M/M Romance – LGBT

By Christina Lee

Synopsis

Vaughn O’Keefe has been part owner of the Hog’s Den for years. Privy to plenty of Disciples of the Road business, he’s never been more ruffled as when a new recruit named “Smoke” walks through the door. Something about the man gets his blood pumping, but he knows to keep his preferences under wraps around the club.

“Smoke” Callahan has done a couple of rehab stints and is finally clean, thanks to help from the Disciples. He’s on the right path and isn’t about to get sidetracked, no matter how much the guy who manages the bar gets beneath his skin. Besides, his last relationship with a man left him scared, alone, and with a nightmare of an addiction.

When the Hog’s Den becomes shorthanded, and Smoke is ordered to help out the one man he can’t have, his longing for the bartender reaches blistering proportions. Vaughn figures a night together should be enough to satisfy their mutual attraction. But neither banks on just how scorching hot it might be.

As Smoke’s past unravels and the one person he hopes never to lay eyes on again messes with all he holds sacred, it’s time to involve the Disciples. Problem is, he’ll have to risk his membership, his heart, and his own hide to keep everyone he cares about safe.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Excerpt

I grabbed my hold of keys and tried not to slam my way out the door. I didn’t know why the hell I was so rattled by Vaughn tonight. I mean, I had been every night, but something about the idea of him being with somebody else right in front of my eyes, made me crazy with need. Need that it felt like only he could fulfill.

As soon as I got to my bike I realized I’d left my cut in the break room. I stood outside attempting to rein in my uneven pulse. I didn’t know what the fuck had come over me.
Breathing more steadily, I stepped back through the door only to find the bar empty. I’d just grab my leather vest and leave him in peace.

“I forgot my…” I stopped in my tracks because Vaughn stood motionless in the middle of the floor, veins bulging in his neck, as if he’d implode at the slightest touch.
He was always moving and talking with a restless energy in this bar so his stillness was a bit startling.

“Hey.” I gingerly placed my hand on his shoulder. “I’m sorry if I—”

There was instant recoil, as if he were attempting to contain the vortex of tension between us by vacuuming it in through his skin.

He twisted toward me, his eyes latching onto mine, right before I was slammed against the door.

The wind was practically knocked out of me as Vaughn sank his weight against my smaller frame. We were groin to groin, heartbeat to heartbeat.

“Fuck, Vaughn, you’re—” Heaving breaths surged through my nostrils. “I was going to suggest a truce.”

“Yeah?” he mumbled, his gaze fastening on my mouth. “What sort of truce?”

Michel’s Review

Christina Lee has done it again! The Darkest Flame is the first book in the new series Roadmap To Your Heart. The Darkest Flame is a spin off from the highly acclaimed New Adult – Between Breaths series .

Vaughn O’Keefe is the co owner and head bartender for the Hog’s Den bar. His business partners are the Disciples of the Road MC. He has seen and heard a lot through out the years and can be fully trusted. When he meets the new recruit, Smoke, it is instant attraction even though he knows there is no room for that kind of attraction in the bar or in the club. It’s obvious that Smoke is very tolerant of the gay community. When he was assigned to protect Jude and Cory it is evident that he has compassion and is sympathetic to their plight. Vaughn can sense that Smoke may be more than sympathetic but also empathetic towards their sexuality. When it comes to Vaughn, Smoke avoids him most of the time, but when he’s in his presence he sends out flirtatious signals.

When Vaughn and Smoke are thrown together tending bar the sparks fly. The chemistry between the two can send the bar up in flames. Their attraction to one another is sizzling hot. There is more to their attraction than sexual chemistry, these two are soul mates. They understand each other on every level.

Between Smoke’s mysterious dark background, his past addictions, the club business, and bar business it would seem that romance should be on the back burner. Vaughn and Smoke are in for a wild dangerous ride.

This book was riveting. The suspense combined with the sensual romance had me glued to the pages. This book is so much more than your typical MC romance or M/M romance. It can stand on it’s own merit in any genre and be rated as a 5 Star book.

Christina Lee has once again delivered a fantastic book!

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Author Bio:

Mother, wife, reader, dreamer. Christina lives in the Midwest with her husband and son–her two favorite guys. She’s addicted to lip gloss, salted caramel everything, and believes in true love and kissing, so writing romance novels has become a dream job.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Release Blitz + 5 Star Review: Resist by Heather C. Leigh- Sphere of Irony Series – Book 3

Posted on 08/12/2015 by shellbellereads

Resist

Sphere of Irony Series – Book 3

A Rock Star Series

By Heather C. Leigh

Release Date: August 9, 2015

Meet Gavin in Heather’s newest M/M standalone romance!

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

Synopsis

All Gavin Walker, bass player for the multi-platinum selling band, Sphere of Irony, wants to do is surf, play music, and occasionally get laid. The problem is that Gavin has a stalker. A potentially deadly one. The threats he receives always mention something about Gavin being gay, which isn’t public knowledge since the record label wants to keep it quiet.

Mitch Hale used to track serial killers for the FBI. A live-changing incident led him to quit the bureau and start his own company providing computerized security for Los Angeles’ wealthiest people. Mitch doesn’t know anyone when he moves across the country from D.C. to California, and all he has for companionship is a pathetic string of failed relationships with women.

When Gavin’s manager hires Mitch to find the stalker, the men instantly hate each other. Despite the constant fighting, attraction between the two blazes hot, confusing the former FBI agent. Spending time with Gavin forces Mitch reflect on what he’s denied about himself for the last ten years. Listening to Mitch’s plan to catch a madman thrusts Gavin’s personal life out in the open for the entire world to see.

Can Gavin and Mitch stop fighting long enough to stop a stalker before someone gets hurt? Or will they stubbornly resist the feelings that develop when they’re forced to work together?

This is book 3 in a 4 part series. It is a spin-off of the Famous Series. These can be read as standalones.

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

Excerpt

I catch the tail end of Gavin’s conversation and come down the stairs in time to see him hang up his phone.

“I need to discuss something with you in the car,” I mention as I hit the bottom step.

Gavin whirls around and chokes at the sight of me. His eyes bug out of his head like a cartoon character and his mouth drops open. Then… he bursts into laughter. The little shit. Honest to god, full belly, tears-in-his-eyes laughter.

“What?” I snap. If he hadn’t started laughing I would have sworn I saw desire on his face when I came down the stairs. Hell, his tongue practically rolled out of his mouth.

“W-what on earth? I-I mean…” The laughter continues.

I cross my arms and scowl, waiting for him to stop acting like a brat. “Are you done?”

Gavin wipes his eyes. “I don’t know, Mitch. What the hell?” He points at me, waving his hand up and down my body. “What are you wearing?”

I scoff. “We’re going to be late. Can I catch you up in the car?” Annoyed at the fact that Gavin is still giggling like a schoolgirl, I snatch my keys off the foyer table and stomp outside to wait on the front step.

“Oh god,” he whispers in a husky voice as he follows behind me.

“What?” I yell, whirling around until we’re nose to nose. I know I’m being unprofessional, but I can’t help myself. He’s being such a dick. “Am I too embarrassing to be seen with? Am I not good enough for the perfect Gavin Walker?”

“No!” Gavin responds to my accusations, holding up a hand to keep me from crashing into him.

I pull back, still furious. “I need to lock the door,” I snarl.

“Jesus, Mitch. What the fuck?” Gavin backs away from the door, heading towards the car.

I shouldn’t care what he thinks. This is work.

After locking up and pulling the car out of the driveway, I feel like the world’s biggest jerk.

“Sorry for yelling,” I say at the same time Gavin mumbles, “Sorry for laughing.”

“Christ,” I chuckle. “Aren’t we a pair?”

“Yeah,” he agrees. “So,” I can see Gavin check out my clothing again from the corner of my eye. “What is with the outfit?”

“Is it that bad?” I ask, biting my bottom lip as I glance over at all six feet plus of beautiful blonde man reclining in the passenger seat.

“No! Not at all. I’m just not used to seeing you like…this,” he says, waving his hand at my clothes again.

“Like what?”

Here we go again. I’m getting all offended. And why? Because he doesn’t like my clothes? Why the hell do I care?

Gavin lets out a long, tortured breath. “All sexy, okay? Shit.” He looks out the side window, hiding his face. I see a crimson blush spread over the one visible cheek and ear.

“Oh.” I grin. “So I’m sexy?” I tease. That explains his mixed reaction.

Gavin barks out a laugh, still staring out the passenger window. “Yeah, like you don’t know that.”

He thinks I’m sexy? For some reason that has me inherently pleased. More pleased than I should be but hell, it’s not everyday you get your ego stroked by a rock star. A gorgeous one at that.

Aaaaand, I shove that right back into the nifty little space in my brain that’s storing up all the thoughts I want to deny ever having.

It’s getting crowded in there.

I clear my throat. “Honestly, the outfit is because I just couldn’t bear the thought of even one more day in a damn suit and tie.” I shudder. Gavin tilts his head in my direction. He’s listening, so I continue. “I felt like I was choking to death. It was too much like being back at the bureau. I just…Let’s just say I didn’t want any reminders of my time there, okay?”

“What does that mean, then? If you aren’t my bodyguard, and you aren’t management, who are you?” Gavin asks.

I force a grin on my face, feeling like I might just twitch right out of my skin. Gavin might not be pleased with my solution.

“I’m your date.”

Michel’s Review

Resist by Heather C. Leigh is the third book in the Sphere of Irony series. If you are new to the series, it’s okay, you don’t have to back track and read the first two books. This book can easily be read as a stand alone novel or in series order. I can guarantee that after reading Resist you will want to read the first two books in the series.

The thing that makes this series so exceptional is it’s uniqueness. For one thing the band Sphere of Irony has it’s own unique make up. Two of the members are from the ghettos in London and the other two members are from tinsel town, Hollywood,CA. Two come from impoverished rough backgrounds and the other two come from priveliged back grounds. Together these four men have come together not only to make music but have became brothers. They fully support each other no matter what their record company, fans, and lives dictate. The other thing that makes this series unique is the characters themselves. They are not your typical wild and spoiled rockstars. They are very grounded and try to lead ordinary lives while being at the top of their careers. They have experienced it all and held onto their true selves. With the exception of one, he has to hide a part of himself. Because of the band’s popularity and his good looks, the record company wants him to hide his sexuality. He is a gay man with millions of women as fans.

Gavin Walker has had to hide his sexuality his entire life. He had to hide being gay in his early years because of his father’s career. Being a famous Hollywood producer of military action films and also being a former military career man has made his father hard. He resents his only son being gay. Gavin’s younger years were blemished with hate and despair. Once he was free from his father’s rule and started to build his own life his sexuality was once again forced to be hidden. This time it was his career and his bandmates careers on the line. But somebody knows his secret. He has a stalker that is becoming more and more dangerous.

Gavin is at the end of his rope. He’s scared, stressed, and falling apart. The only thing that gives him hope is the former FBI profiler his manager has brought in to find the stalker threatening his life. The biggest surprise is his attraction to his protector. Mitch Hale is a straight man and clearly has no interest in Gavin romantically. But the vibes are there and the confusion is even greater.

Mitch Hale has to find Gavin’s stalker before it’s too late. This case has blurred lines and nothing is predictable. He can’t get a handle on who the stalker could be or what his motivations are. He can’t get his client to cooperate with him long enough to keep him safe. He can’t understand his attraction to his client. He wants Gavin Walker to stay alive for more than professional reasons. He wants to explore his attraction to Gavin Walker.

As the danger escalates so does Gavin and Mitch’s relationship. These two are going to go up in flames.

I could not put Resist down. This book kept me on the edge of my seat. The chilling suspense was riveting. It kept me guessing up to the very end when the stalker was finally revealed. The relationship between these two men was beautiful. I loved that they gave their all to one another when they finally surrendered to their feelings.

I highly recommend Resist by Heather C. Leigh. The Sphere of Irony series is exceptional.

A Sphere Of Irony Series

Incite – Book 1

Privilege, poverty, death, and self-loathing; these are the backgrounds of the men of the internationally famous rock band, Sphere of Irony.

Adam Reynolds is an impoverished teen raised by neglectful parents in one of London’s most dangerous boroughs. He turns to his love of music and countless girls to escape his sad reality.

Beautiful and naïve Ellie Palmer comes from a well-off family that suddenly finds themselves living in one of the poorest neighborhoods in London. Alone in a frightening new place, Ellie is afraid to leave the safety of her home, only going out to walk to school and back.

When Adam prevents Ellie from becoming the victim of a horrific sexual assault, they discover something that two teenagers never thought they would find in such a depressing place. Each other.

After tragedy, lies, and distance tear their future away from them; they each wander through life empty and hopeless no matter who or what they use to replace the feelings of loss.

From the crime-ridden streets of London’s East End to the over-the-top display of wealth in L.A. Can two broken souls must conquer their demons in order to find true happiness?

*This is book 1 in a 4 part series. It is a spin-off of the Famous Series. These can be read as standalones.*

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Strike- Book 2

Dax Davies has one job to fulfill in the Davies household. Earn money at the family business. The problem is that the family business was illegal underground fighting.

From a young age, Dax and his brothers are groomed to become money earners in their father’s club. Broken bones and bruises are commonplace. Their father pits the brothers against each other to ‘toughen them up’ for the ring, using his rules to bend his sons to his will. His future is in the cage, not on stage where he dreams of making music.

Kate Campbell loves one thing in life. Well, two. Soccer and Dax Davies. Growing up in the poorest part of London, soccer is her personal escape from reality and from the fact that Dax doesn’t seem to know she exists. She figures if she can be good enough at soccer, maybe she can get away from Hackney, and leave the poverty behind.

Kate doesn’t plan on ever getting to know Dax as more than a passing acquaintance. In fact, she isn’t meant to go with her friend to Dax’s father’s business, but that one night changes everything.

***This is book 2 in the Sphere of Irony Series. It can be read as a standalone. This is a spin-off of the Famous Series***

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Resist – Book 3

Can Gavin and Mitch stop fighting long enough to stop a stalker before someone gets hurt? Or will they stubbornly resist the feelings that develop when they’re forced to work together?

This is book 3 in a 4 part series. It is a spin-off of the Famous Series. These can be read as standalones.

Pre Order: Amazon / Amazon UK

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About Heather C. Leigh

I’m the author of the Amazon best selling Famous series. I like to write about the ‘dark’ side of fame. The part that the public doesn’t get to see, how difficult it is to live in a fishbowl and how that affects relationships.

I was born and raised in New England and currently live outside Atlanta, GA.

I love the Red Sox, the Patriots, and anything made of chocolate (but not white chocolate, that doesn’t count).

My favorite authors are Dan Wells, Tina Reber, Ken Follett, and Stephen King. Happy reading!

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

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