Release Blitz + 5 Star Review: On My Knees by J. Kenner – The Stark International Trilogy – Book 2

Posted on 06/23/2015 by shellbellereads

On My Knees

Stark International Trilogy – Book 2

Stark Series – Book 5

By J. Kenner

Synopsis

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.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Michel’s Review

Wow! J. Kenner knocked it out of the park with the second book in the Stark International trilogy. This trilogy is by far my favorite in the Stark Series.

On My Knees by J. Kenner is the second book in the Stark International Trilogy. It should not be read as a stand alone novel. It is the sequel to Say My Name. This trilogy features Jackson Steele, a world renowned architect, and Sylvia Brooks, Damien Stark’s PA & Project Manager for the Cortez Resort Project.

Jackson and Sylvia have a history that ended badly when Sylvia chose to leave Jackson without explanation five years earlier. She not only broke her own heart but also left Jackson broken. When she asked that he not contact her in the future he respected her wishes, not only for self preservation but because he loved her that much. Five years of harboring a broken heart has left Jackson bitter. When the opportunity to work with the Stark Corporation presents itself he sees this as an opportunity to get revenge on Sylvia and Damien Stark. What starts out as a quest for revenge turns into a quest for love and redemption. Jackson is finally getting answers for why Sylvia left him and he finds he loves her even deeper than he thought. As far as his revenge on Damien Stark, it is a whole different animal altogether. It’s much more complicated than a business deal gone wrong. But for Sylvia, he is willing to put aside his hatred towards Damien and work on the project. This project ends up being more than he expected. It is an architect’s dream.

That is pretty much how Say My Name ended. Both Jackson and Sylvia are trying to make their relationship work. They have revealed some of their secrets and looked past the old hurts in their relationship.

On My Knees picks up where Say My Name left off. The Cortez project is beginning to come to life. Everything is running smoothly until Jackson gets arrested for attacking the movie producer Robert Cabot Reed. The result is Damien Stark firing him from the project. Damien’s reasons are much deeper than the arrest. Jackson revealed one of his dark secrets that infuriated Damien.

It would seem like this would put a huge kink in Sylvia and Jackson’s relationship but it does just the opposite. Even though their careers are colliding ,their relationship is much more important to them. They become even closer by talking things out, rationalizing their problems, and finding solutions to control their personal needs. They handled their weaknesses and pressure points by trusting and depending on one another.

Eventually Jackson is brought back on the Cortez Resort project but there are still problems that could keep this project from getting off the ground. The media has run with Jackson and Sylvia’s connection to the producer of a movie that Jackson wants killed. He hasn’t revealed his reasons but it is quite clear they are valid. Sylvia is trying to survive the dark past that Robert Cabot Reed caused. Damien Stark is being a complete dickhead. It seems like he is gunning for Jackson because of the secret he revealed. Still Jackson and Sylvia’s relationship is staying true and strong until Damien reveals a secret that could tear them apart. At the same time something underhanded is going on at Stark Industries. Someone is sabotaging the Cortez Project and it looks like it may be coming from within.

I could not put this book down. It really pulled the reader into the story and gave the reader more insight on who the characters really were. Sylvia is a strong woman with integrity. Jackson may be caring around a lot of secrets but all of his intentions are good and pure. He always puts Sylvia first. He is an honorable man and shows much more character strength than Damien Stark. I couldn’t help falling head over heels for Jackson Steele. As for Damien Stark, I was really beginning to hate the man , but he wouldn’t be where he is in the world if he was any other way (his story will change the readers view of him). I loved how J. Kenner let readers see the other side of Damien Stark and not let his powerful personality overshadow this trilogy.

J. Kenner has done a magnificent job with this trilogy thus far . It is able to stand apart from the first three books in the Stark Series. These characters shine. Their story is captivating. She didn’t let the characters from the previous books overshadow the leading characters in this part of the series. They have a fresh voice and unique story. I can’t wait for the final book , Under My Skin, releasing September 1, 2015,

I am team Jackson Steele!

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.

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

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.

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 + Giveaway… Up In Smoke by Tessa Bailey – Crossing The Line Series – Book 2

Posted on 06/23/2015 by shellbellereads

Up In Smoke

Crossing The Line Series – Book 2

By Tessa Bailey

Release Date: June 23, 2015

Synopsis

Never start a fire you can’t control…

Connor Bannon is supposed to be dead. Dishonorably discharged from the Navy SEALs, he’s spent the last two years working as a street enforcer in Brooklyn for his cousin’s crime ring. Through a twist of fate, he’s now in Chicago, working undercover to bust criminals. But when a cute little arsonist joins the team-all combat boots, tiny jean shorts, and hot-pink hair-Connor’s notorious iron control slips.

Erin “she’s getting away” O’Dea knows two things. She hates authority. And… Nope, that’s it. When she’s forced to operate on the “right” side of the law, her fear of being confined and controlled blazes to the surface. The last thing she expects is a control freak like Connor to soothe her when she needs it most. Worse, something behind the sexy ex-soldier’s eyes ignites a dangerous inferno of desire. One that invites Erin to play with fire. And one that could get them both killed…

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Excerpt

As if her thoughts had made him appear, Connor strode into the courthouse. Her pulse started beating double time, her stomach muscles tightening. Good Lord, the man was a fucking panty dropper. She’d only been away from him for a few hours and it felt like years since she’d experienced his presence. In jeans and a fitted gray T-shirt that molded to his muscles like her hands itched to do, he personified confidence and authority. Hot, rugged male. His gaze connected with hers immediately and darkened. She thought back to that morning when he’d dressed in the early morning light, his abs flexing as he pulled the shirt over his head. His erection barely contained by his boxers. She’d never been one to beg for anything, but she’d been seconds from offering him her mouth. Pleading for the privilege of sucking him off.

Conner shook his head at her with a sexy half smile on his face, as if he could read her thoughts across the room. He stopped at the metal detector and walked through after the security guard beckoned him forward. When the woman grabbed her wand and instructed him to raise his hands in the air, something ugly reared its head deep inside her. The detector hadn’t even beeped. There was no reason for the personal service. When the woman smiled at Connor and ran a hand down her ponytail, Erin propelled herself forward, boots echoing on the polished marble.

Erin hissed as she drew even with the guard. “If you’re done feeling up my boyfriend, I’d love a turn. We were in a rush this morning.”

The guard dropped the wand, letting it dangle near her thigh. “Did you just hiss at me?”

Erin hissed again.

“Okay.” Connor stepped between them, winking down at her. “We should go. Don’t want to keep the clerk waiting.”

Appreciation spread in her belly like honey. He hadn’t chided her for her behavior or apologized to the woman on her behalf. Instead he’d given the impression they were on their way to get married, appeasing her jealousy in one fell swoop. “That’s right.” She sauntered toward the elevator. “There’s vows to be exchanged. Rings to put on fingers. Shit like that.”

She glanced behind her to find Connor staring at her ass as she walked, so she put a little swing in her hips and savored his groan. Damn. She’d definitely never had this much fun at a courthouse.

A moment later, she and Connor stepped into an empty elevator. She hit the button for the top floor even though the clerk was on the first, and leaned back against the wall, looking up at him through her eyelashes. “How was your morning, baby? Was it worth leaving me in bed, all hot and bothered for you?”

“Fuck no, it wasn’t.” He crooked a big finger at her. “Climb on up here.”

MICHEL’S REVIEW

What do you look for when picking your next book to read? Is it an alpha hero? Is it a tormented broken hero that has flaws? Is it a dirty talking man that makes your panties melt off with his words alone? Is it a hero that knows how to back up his dirty talk with hands on action? Are you looking for a sassy heroine that knows how to handle her hero? Look no further. Tessa Bailey is the go to author that always delivers all of this and so much more. Her books are sizzling hot, fantastically fun, super sexy, and romantic. They never fail to entertain and always deliver a good story.

Up In Smoke by Tessa Bailey has it’s own special blend of romance that she is so famous for writing. This time both of the leading characters are broken. Their supporting cast is a group of broken misfits that will capture your heart as much as the leading characters.

This book is loaded with sexual tension, witty dialogue, heart wrenching moments, and fuzzy warm feel goods.

A former Navy Seal with anger issues. An Enforcer. A pyromaniac escape artist that can’t stand to be touched. These two have more baggage than a cargo carrier. They don’t want to fix each other. They can’t seem to keep their hands off each other. Together these two will send the pages into scorching flames.

Don’t miss out on this explosive new release by Tessa Bailey.

Get Up In Smoke by Tessa Bailey and be ready to burn. It is one of my favorite summer scorchers.

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About Tessa Bailey

Tessa lives in Brooklyn, New York with her husband and young daughter. When she isn’t writing or reading romance, Tessa enjoys a good argument and thirty-minute recipes.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

GIVEAWAY
Signed copies of Risking it All & Up in Smoke
$100 Amazon Gift Card (2 Winners)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

5 Star Review: Beat by Vi Keeland

Posted on 06/18/2015 by shellbellereads

Throb

Release Date: June 15, 2015

By Vi Keeland

Synopsis

Dimpled smile of a boy
Hard body of a man
Sings like an angel
Fucks like the devil

I was stuck between a rock(star) and a hard place.

At fifteen, his poster hung on my bedroom wall. At twenty-five his body hovered over mine. Every girl’s fantasy became my reality. I was dating a rockstar. Yet I was slowly falling for another man. The problem was—the two men—they shared a tour bus.

Flynn Beckham was the opening act.
Dylan Ryder was the headliner.

What happens when the opening act begins to shine so bright, it seems to dim everything else in its wake?

I’ll tell you what happens. Things get ugly.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Excerpt

Despite the fact that Lucky had just casually mentioned that the lobby lounge serves coffee beginning at six a.m., I’m pretty sure of myself that she’ll be down there. But when I step off the elevator, the lobby is quiet. Empty. The coffee urns are just being set up in the lounge. I pour two mugs, make them just as we like it, and settle on one of the couches on the far side of the room where it’s private, yet I can still keep an eye on the door.

I grab a newspaper and begin to flip through to kill time. Then my eyes catch a pair of pink-painted toes in flip-flops. I don’t know why, but it’s in this moment that I realize, I’m fucked.

The sight of her toes makes me smile.

I’m falling for another guy’s girl. Something I promised myself I’d never do.

But then I reason with myself. I haven’t done anything wrong. Thinking a woman is beautiful and spending time with her doesn’t have to turn into anything, right? They’re just toes after all. But look how cute they are. I’ve never been a foot guy, yet I wouldn’t mind sucking… Stop. Just stop. We’re just friends.

Because I’ve been friends with so many hot women in the past and not fucked them? Yep. I’m screwed. I need to get the hell out of here.

“Good morning,” she whispers and smiles down at me. My eyes lazily travel up from her toes.

I’m totally not going anywhere.

I hold up her mug of coffee. And then I realize she still has the thin shirt she wears to sleep on and I’m eye-level with the sexiest taut nipples I’ve ever seen.

Screw sucking her toes… “Certainly is.” I grin.

Michel’s Review

Readers are ready for the Rock Star Romance of Summer 2015 ? Look no further and download Beat by Vi Keeland. This book is guaranteed to rock your socks off!

Readers met Flynn Beckham, the up and coming rock star, in Throb. We got a glimpse of what a cool guy Flynn was but it was only a small taste of who he is. Beat will have you swooning over Flynn, tossing your panties on stage, and stalking his shows. He is the real deal with a heart of gold and pure soul. He’s not your tortured and misunderstood rock star. He’s not the typical manwhore that does a different groupie every night even though the opportunities are there. He’s a genuine musician that is just as comfortable singing songs from “Frozen” as he is singing hardcore rock and roll. He loves fiercely and is not afraid to show his emotions. He’s as dedicated to the ones he loves as he is to his music. He is the perfect Rock God.

Flynn Beckham and his band In With Flynn are offered the opportunity of a lifetime that could make their career sky rocket. They are going to be touring with one of the most successful bands in the industry as an opening act on the second half of their tour.

An accidental meeting in a popular karaoke bar will set Flynn Beckham on a new path that could ultimately make or break his career. When he meets the sexy bartender, Lucky, his interest is sparked. When he finds out that Lucky is the girlfriend of the lead singer in the headlining band that he is going to be touring with, he is beyond disappointed. When that same girlfriend ends up being the voice coach that the record company wants him to work with he begins to believe fate may be on his side. When the plans for the tour change and he is brought on the replace one of the members in the heading band, he thinks that fate has dealt him a low blow. He is going to be forced to work with his voice coach and be forced to live night and day with her relationship with Dylan Ryder. The one thing Flynn has on his side is that he and Lucky have formed a solid friendship. They have more in common than their work. It doesn’t hurt that Dylan Ryder is a self indulgent prick that is more into his image than he is his woman. Flynn is going to take what he can and run with it.

Four weeks on the tour bus with the woman he’s falling in love with is going to be torture. To make matters worse he will be spending four weeks with the egotistical aging rock star that feels threatened by his musical talent. He’s not only going to steal the spotlight from the aging rock star, he’s going to steal his girl. This tour is either going to make or break his career. This tour is either going to change his life or break his heart. Flynn Beckham is ready to rock the world. Let the show begin!

Vi Keeland has once again written another fantastic book. Her writing talent spins a story that readers quickly become immersed in. The characters come to life and jump off the pages. The reader quickly connects with each and every character and falls in love with them.

I highly recommend Beat! It will rock your heart!

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Throb

By Vi Keeland

Synopsis

The rules:

No dating.

No sex outside of the game.

No disclosing the terms of the contract.

Rules were made to be broken, right?

Eight weeks ago I signed a contract. One that seemed like a good idea at the time. A handsome bachelor, luxury accommodations, and a chance to win a prize my family desperately needed. There were some rules though. Lots of them actually. Follow the script, no dating, sex, or disclosing the terms of the deal. After my self-imposed moratorium on men the last year, it wouldn’t be hard to live up to my end of the bargain…so I thought. Until I realized the deal I’d made was with the devil…and I was in love with his dirty-talking brother.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes / Kobo

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Additional Books by Vi Keeland

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

About The Author: Vi Keeland

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 New York Times & USA Today Best Selling smut author by night!

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

5 Star Review : Words Left Unsaid by Missy Johnson

Posted on 06/17/2015 by shellbellereads

Words Left Unsaid

By Missy Johnson

Synopsis

At 8:28 I was the girl who had everything.

At 8:29 my whole world fell apart.

A split second can change your life. I learned this the hard way. I wasn’t ready to let him go. Even when the terms “vegetative state” and “will never recover” were thrown around I held onto hope. I mean, miracles happen, right?

We deserved our happy ending.

Three years later and I’m still hoping. In my heart I know I have to let him go but how can I? He’s the only man I’ve ever loved. He”s my soul mate. My life.

Then I meet Max. He’s everything Aiden isn’t and as much as I’m trying to fight my feelings, I’m losing. I don’t want to fight anymore.

I need to live my life.

I need to move on.

But in order to move forward I need to let go of the past.

Buy: Amazon

Tina’s Review

Judging a Book by it’s Cover:
This is one where the title was enough to catch my eye, made more intriguing by the synopsis. The cover at the time of interest was a temporary placeholder, so I was unable to judge this book by it’s cover.
Looking Deeper:
Alternating first-person POV, clearly marked and easy to follow.
Not long after kissing goodbye and exchanging “I love you”s as Aiden leaves for work does Kiara receive word that he’s been in a horrific accident that leaves him in a come. Three years have passed and the young mother struggles and fights daily to remain loyal all while needing to move forward with their daughter, especially when new opportunities arise for Kiara. Outside forces push and pull her in many directions. As she battles them, she also battles with her own feelings and guilt all while trying to raise their daughter in the best way possible. Outstanding cast of characters, with natural and believable dialogue and interaction. The plot is full, rich, emotional and engrossing. The pace flows smoothly, moving at a comfortable pace. The conflicts are met in a mature, realistic manner. There is little to no predictability. The conclusion is solid, satisfying and complete with no holes or loose ends anywhere. Words Left Unsaid is a powerfully emotional story that plays on our worst “what if” fears and Ms. Johnson created a perfectly balanced range of emotions throughout.

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Author Bios:

Missy lives in a small town in Central Victoria with her husband, and her confused pets (a dog who think she’s a cat, a cat who thinks he’s a dog…you get the picture).

When she’s not writing, she can usually be found looking for something to read.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

5 Star Review : Lance by Christi Snow – The Male Model Chronicles – Book 2

Posted on 06/16/2015 by shellbellereads

Lance

The Male Model Chronicles – Book 2

by Christi Snow

Synopsis

As the owner and CEO of Lancer Industries, Matthew Lancer spends his days in three piece suits and conducting meetings that affect the world financial markets. What the world doesn’t know is that Matthew Lancer has a deep, dark secret. He’s actually super-hot, super-sexy, and covered in tattoos. When he can, he spends his free time letting loose as bad-boy male model, Lance Jones. No one knows and it has to stay that way or Lance will lose the one thing that’s keeping his high pressure life sane.

Andi Kelly writes erotic romance. Day in and day out, she imagines a world filled with bondage, multiple partners, and just a few whips and chains. But that’s the fantasy life in her novels. In the real world, she’s an introvert who spends her days at home living out her fantasies through her laptop. Andi’s finally worked up the courage to ask Shauna Kruse if she can sit in on the photoshoot for Andi’s next novel…with her model-crush, Lance Jones.

But Lancer Industries has a mole and it’s put both Andi and Lance in danger. Lance’s two worlds collide and when corporate espionage meets erotic romance, there’s no telling what might happen.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Michel’s Review

Christi Snow has released another solid and highly entertaining romance in her Male Model Chronicles series. This series is based on real life cover models but their story is completely fictional. These guys are more than a pretty face with six pack abs. These guys have substance and heart.

Andi Kelly is a shy erotic romance author. Her specialty is BDSM and Bondage. Her current release revolves around mastering rope bondage. Although it would seem that she is quite the expert in erotism it couldn’t be further from the truth. She is extremely shy, is not over confident in her sexuality, and is close to being a shut in. Her sister deals with all of her PR work and business dealings.

When her sister is unable to handle the photo shoot for her latest cover, Andi has to deal with the photographer. The photographer, Shauna Kruse ( a real cover photographer), knows how to get the most of her subjects. She has decided to make Andi her next subject.

When Matthew Lancer, aka model Lance Jones, sees Andi with her ropes, he’s intrigued. When the two get together the chemistry is explosive.

When his corporate world becomes a threat to Andi, Lance is more than willing to make it up to her and protect her. His ways of apologizing are amazing. He won my heart with all the shoes.

Andi and Lance find something that neither knew they could ever have. They will come out on top and happy together in the end.

Christi Snow once again penned a sexy, magical romance.

I highly recommend Lance. I love the Male Model Chronicles.

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The Male Model Chronicles

Justin

Male Model Chronicles – Book 1

By Christi Snow

Synopsis

Tara Malone is having one of those lives. Born to Oscar award-winning actor, Anthony Malone, and model-famous beauty, Veronica Scott, she should have it made. But her curvy figure and out-of-control frizzy red hair are just the start of her many, many issues. Now to make matters worse, she’s started out her week by running over model, Justin James, with her car. She had a lot of fantasies about the cover model, but never did any of them include vehicular assault.

Justin James doesn’t have time for two broken wrists, but neither does his over-achieving family. He can’t open up his fridge or unzip his fly without excruciating pain and no one else has the time to help him. Tara already shot him down at the accident scene, but maybe he can work this so that the curvy bombshell has a reason to hang around for a bit. He’s not above using guilt if it means he gets to know her better.

The first in a new series of novellas inspired by Shauna Kruse’s photography and her beautiful male models.

The Male Model Chronicles.

Disclaimer: The Male Model Chronicles, a new fictional series, built around the real-life world of Kruse Images & Photography and the gorgeous male models that Shauna Kruse gets to immortalize in her photos. The heroes are real people who also happen to be male models, but every single other thing about the series is fiction.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / IBooks

Lance

The Male Model Chronicles – Book 2

by Christi Snow

Synopsis

But Lancer Industries has a mole and it’s put both Andi and Lance in danger. Lance’s two worlds collide and when corporate espionage meets erotic romance, there’s no telling what might happen.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

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About Christi Snow

As an avid reader my entire life, I’ve always dreamed of writing books that brought to others the kind of joy I feel when I read.

But…I never did anything about it besides jot down a few ideas and sparse scenes.
When I turned 41, I decided it was time to go after my dream and started writing. Within four months, I’d written over 150,000 words and haven’t stopped since. I’ve found my passion by writing about sexy, alpha heroes and smart, tough heroines falling in love and finding their passion. I’m truly living the dream and loving every minute of it.
My tagline is…
Passion and adventure on the road to Happily Ever After. I have to admit, I am loving this adventure!

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Happy Release: Opening Up by Lauren Dane – Ink & Chrome Series – Book 1

Posted on 06/16/2015 by shellbellereads

Opening Up

Ink & Chrome Series

By Lauren Dane

Synopsis

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Lauren Dane delivers Book #1 in her Ink & Chrome erotic romance series.

The men of the Twisted Steel custom hot rod and motorcycle shop are great with their hands…and they’re not afraid to get dirty.

PJ is exactly the kind of woman Twisted Steel owner Asa Barrons doesn’t need. The last thing he wants to do is mix business with pleasure, and PJ has some of the best custom detailing he’s ever seen. But the chemistry between them won’t be denied, and soon he’s introducing her to a whole new world in the bedroom, pushing her far beyond anything she’s ever experienced. PJ finds she can’t get enough, but how far is too far before he consumes her completely?

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Michel’s Review

Congratulations to Lauren Dane on her new dynamic Ink & Chrome series. The first book, Opening Up, is a sensational introduction to this series.

PJ comes from automotive royalty. Her family’s tire corporation has been one of the reigning companies in the automotive industry. PJ and her siblings are expected to take over the throne. The only problem is that PJ isn’t conforming into the expected mold for a leading executive in the company. Between her lack of a college degree to her artistic visions most of her family doesn’t see her as a promising part of the corporation. PJ has visions of expanding and updating the company’s presence in other avenues of the industry.

When she meets Asa Barrons from Twisted Steel she begins to bring her visions to life. Not only is she getting the chance to bring her visions to life, she has met a man that makes her stand up and take notice.

Asa Barrons comes from the complete opposite of PJ’s background. His dedication to his family is to be admired. His work at Twisted Steel is phenomenal. He’s the perfect kind of guy for PJ. He’s strong, inked, talented, and smart.

PJ and Asa develop a relationship that goes beyond friendship. It is a relationship based upon respect, admiration, and pure sexual chemistry.

Together they are a new force to be reckoned with in and out of the showroom.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I love that Lauren Dane created verbal interaction between the characters rather than focusing on their sexual chemistry, even though that was smoking hot. The dialogue was fantastic and the story flowed beautifully.

I am looking forward to the next book in the Ink & Chrome series.

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About Lauren Dane

Lauren Dane has been writing stories since she was able to use a pencil, and before that she used to tell them to people. Of course, she still talks nonstop, and through wonderful fate and good fortune, she’s now able to share what she writes with others. It’s a wonderful life!

The basics: Lauren is a mom, a partner, a best friend and a daughter. Living in the rainy but beautiful Pacific Northwest, she spends her late evenings writing like a fiend when she finally wrestles all of her kids to bed.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Release Blitz + 5 Star Review + Giveaway : King by T. M. Frazier

Posted on 06/15/2015 by shellbellereads

The King

Release Date: June 15, 2015

By T. M. Frazier

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

Synopsis

Homeless. Hungry. Desperate.

Doe has no memories of who she is or where she comes from.

A notorious career criminal just released from prison, King is someone you don’t want to cross unless you’re prepared to pay him back in blood, sweat, sex or a combination of all three.

King’s future hangs in the balance. Doe’s is written in her past. When they come crashing together, they will have to learn that sometimes in order to hold on, you have to first let go.

King is the first book in a two part series. Tyrant is the name of the second book due out August 2015.

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

Excerpt

“Hey there,” a deep voice rumbled against my ear.
When I turned around, I was eye level with a wall of leather with white patches sewn into it. One read VICE PRESIDENT and the other, BEACH BASTARDS. The man wearing the vest had long blonde hair that draped over to one side of his head, revealing the shaved area beneath. He had a beard, not stubble, a full-on beard that was a few inches long and very well groomed. He stood well over six feet, his frame lean yet very cut and muscular. I couldn’t tell what color his eyes were because his lids hung heavy and were slightly reddened. His entire neck was covered with colorful tattoos and when he went to light a cigarette I noticed that the backs of both of his hands and were covered in ink as well.
“Hey,” I answered back, trying to assert my newly found false confidence.
He was beyond attractive. He was gorgeous. If I had to end up in someone’s bed, I imagined that being in his wouldn’t be half-bad. He sniffled, drawing attention to the light dusting of white powder trapped in his nostrils.
“They call me Bear. You belong to anyone?” he asked seductively, leaning in toward me.
“Maybe…you?” I winced at my choice of words. Of all the fucking things I could have said, THAT was what came to mind? Stupid fucking mouth. Nikki was right. I spoke first and thought second.
Bear chuckled. “I’d love that, beautiful, but I got something else in mind.”
“Oh, yeah? What would that be?” I asked, trying to keep my tone light although my mind and heart were racing.
“This party? It’s for my buddy. And he was down here for a total of thirty minutes before he hightailed it upstairs to drown himself in a bottle of Jack. He’s like a cat in a tree, can’t seem to talk him down. It’s understandable, seeing as he’s been away a while, but I figure you can help me out.”
He hooked his finger into the front of my skirt and slowly dragged me toward him until my nipples were flush up against his chest. He pressed his fingers into the skin right above my public bone and I resisted the urge to jump back by biting down on my bottom lip.
“The BBB’s have never really been his thing.” He paused when he saw the confused look on my face at his abbreviation. “Beach Bastard Bitches.” He explained. “But you? You’re new. You’re different. You’ve got this cute little innocent thing going on, but I know you’re not or you wouldn’t be at this kind of party if that was your deal. I’m thinking he’ll like you.” Bear brushed his lips against the side of my neck. “So maybe you go up there. Make him happy for me. Make little him happy by wrapping those gorgeous lips around his cock for a while. Then when you’re done, bring him back down here to civilization. And maybe later, if you’re a good girl and do what you’re told, we can go back to the clubhouse and have some real fun.” He grazed his teeth along my earlobe. “Think you can you do that for me?”
“Yeah, yeah I can do that,” I said. My skin prickling from his touch. And I could do it.
I think.
“What’s your name anyway?” Bear’s hand slowly traveled up the back of my leg, pushing up my skirt, it came to rest on my ass cheek, which was then exposed to anyone who might have been looking in our direction.
“Doe. My name is Doe,” I breathed.
“Fitting.” He said with a chuckle. “Well, my innocent looking little Doe.” Bear leaned in close and surprised me by planting a soft kiss on the corner of my mouth. His lips were soft, and he smelled like laundry detergent mixed with liquor and cigarettes. I was just beginning to think that the kiss meant that he’d changed his mind and didn’t want me to send me away to his friend, but no such luck. He pulled away abruptly and turned me around by my shoulders so that I was facing the stairs. He swatted me on my ass, propelling me forward. “Up the stairs you go, sweetheart. Last room at the end of the hallway. Be good to my boy, and me and you will get to play later.” He sealed his words with a wink and as I made my way up the stairs I turned back and flashed him a fake smile. I hoped the guy at the end of the hallway was like Bear, because then maybe it wouldn’t be so bad.
Then a thought hit me that had me fighting back the tears that sprung from my eyes with a sudden force that almost took me to my knees.
I’d officially sold myself, and the price was far more than any dollar amount.

Michel’s Review

It’s no secret that my absolute favorite kind of book is the dark erotic thriller. I truly love twisted, dark, and deeply flawed characters that have a real criminal element. I don’t care if they are redeemed. I don’t care that they have a touch of evil. I don’t care that they possess dark and cruel natures. I want their story in all the crude and raw truths. I want to know what drives their souls. How they became twisted. I want to know their vulnerabilities as well as strengths.

When the blog tour for King came across my desk and I read the synopsis I was completely intrigued. I have never read any books by this author but heard that she was really good. I decided to take a chance. I have been hungry for a dark twisted thriller. I can honestly say that I am so happy I decided to take a chance on King. It was everything I hoped for and more! I could not put this book down. When the book ended with a hair raising cliffhanger, not only was I shocked, I was screaming for the sequel, Tyrant. It’s a good thing that I won’t have to wait months upon months for the sequel to release. Tyrant will release on August 17, 2015. I can hold on… I hope… without getting too frustrated.

Without a doubt, King by T. M. Frazier is a five star dark thriller. This book kept me captivated from the very first paragraph to the very last word. The characters were complex and multi layered. Their story was anything but predictable. Their very dark world came to life and I could easily visualize each and every scene in living color. This book caused me to have many different emotional reactions. One moment my toes would be curling and the next I would be swooning. I would go from being wary to laughing, from laughing to crying, from crying to hating, from hating to loving. Each of these characters , whether being the leading characters or secondary characters, held my attention and played with my emotions. Their story enslaved me.

This story starts when King is a twelve year old boy. The reader gets a true sense of the world he was born into and forced to survive. The only option he ever had was the life that he chose. It doesn’t make him evil, it just proves that he is a survivor. How his life plays out to the moment he meets Doe is in all reality the only way it could have. He was smart enough to take control of the world he was born into and make it completely his.

When he meets Doe, a girl with no memory, his world is turned on it’s axis. Everything is off kilter. She is a threat to his goals. She could be the one person that completely destroys his world. She is the one person that has the power to take everything he holds dear. Even though Doe is everything that could destroy his world, she is also everything that is pure and right in his world. She has no clue to the power she holds over him. He will have to take control of that power and make it work in his favor. It may destroy him. It may destroy Doe. No matter what happens, their forbidden love is on a collision course. It’s a course they both may not survive.

This book ended on a grueling cliffhanger that had me biting my nails and ripping out my hair. I was completely shocked. Usually I can foresee or predict the direction a book is heading. King took me by complete surprise!

Read King by T. M. Frazier. It is a thrilling story that you don’t want to miss.

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Tyrant

King Series – Book 2

Conclusion to King

Release Date : August 17, 2015

By T. M. Frazier

Synopsi

I.Remember. Everything.

Only now I wish I didn’t.

When the fog is sucked away from my mind like smoke through a vacuum, the truth that has been beyond my reach for months finally reveals itself.

But the relief I thought I would feel never comes, and I’m more afraid now than I was the morning I woke up handcuffed in King’s bed.

Because with the truth comes dark secrets I was never meant to know.

I will put the lives of those I love most at risk if I let on that my memory has returned, or if I seek help from the heavily tattooed felon who owns me body and soul.

I don’t know if I’m strong enough to resist the magnetic pull toward King that grows stronger every day.

He’s already saved me in more ways than one. Now it’s my turn to do whatever it takes to save him.

Even if that means marrying someone else…

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Author Bio:

T.M. (Tracey Marie) Frazier resides in sunny Southwest Florida with her husband and three feisty fur kids.

She attended Florida Gulf Coast University where she specialized in public speaking. After years working in real estate and new home construction, she decided it was finally time to stop pushing her dreams to the back burner and pursue writing seriously.

In the third grade she wrote her very first story about a lost hamster. It earned rave reviews from both her teacher and her parents.

It only took her twenty years to start the next one.

It will not be about hamsters.

Stalk Her: Website, Facebook, Twitter, Amazon, and Goodreads.

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Release Blitz + 5 Star Review : Beat by Vi Keeland

Posted on 06/15/2015 by shellbellereads

Throb

Release Date: June 15, 2015

By Vi Keeland

Synopsis

Dimpled smile of a boy
Hard body of a man
Sings like an angel
Fucks like the devil

I was stuck between a rock(star) and a hard place.

Flynn Beckham was the opening act.
Dylan Ryder was the headliner.

What happens when the opening act begins to shine so bright, it seems to dim everything else in its wake?

I’ll tell you what happens. Things get ugly.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Excerpt

I grab a newspaper and begin to flip through to kill time. Then my eyes catch a pair of pink-painted toes in flip-flops. I don’t know why, but it’s in this moment that I realize, I’m fucked.

The sight of her toes makes me smile.

I’m falling for another guy’s girl. Something I promised myself I’d never do.

Because I’ve been friends with so many hot women in the past and not fucked them? Yep. I’m screwed. I need to get the hell out of here.

“Good morning,” she whispers and smiles down at me. My eyes lazily travel up from her toes.

I’m totally not going anywhere.

I hold up her mug of coffee. And then I realize she still has the thin shirt she wears to sleep on and I’m eye-level with the sexiest taut nipples I’ve ever seen.

Screw sucking her toes… “Certainly is.” I grin.

Michel’s Review

Readers are ready for the Rock Star Romance of Summer 2015 ? Look no further and download Beat by Vi Keeland. This book is guaranteed to rock your socks off!

I highly recommend Beat! It will rock your heart!

____________________________________________________

Throb

By Vi Keeland

Synopsis

The rules:

No dating.

No sex outside of the game.

No disclosing the terms of the contract.

Rules were made to be broken, right?

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes / Kobo

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Additional Books by Vi Keeland

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

About The Author: Vi Keeland

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Release Blitz + 5 Star Review + Giveaway: Dark Domination by Lili Valente – Bought By The Billionaire Series – Book 1

Posted on 06/10/2015 by shellbellereads

Dark Domination

Bought by the Billionaire, Book 1

Lili Valente

Releases June 9th

WARNING: Dark, dirty, forbidden, and hot as hell.

Marine turned billionaire arms dealer Jackson Hawke has one goal–to have the woman who ruined his life at his mercy. He’ll see her on her knees, even if he has to pay for the privilege.

Six years ago, Hannah buried her twin sister. Now, with her family in jeopardy, Hannah must sell herself to a wealthy stranger in order to save their home.

She expects to be scarred by the experience. She doesn’t expect to pay penance for her sister’s sins or to meet a man who brings her body savagely to life.

Now Hannah must choose–confess to Jackson that she’s not the twin he’s looking for and forfeit the money she needs to survive, or submit to a man whose dark domination may be the end of them both.

* *CLIFFHANGER ALERT: Dark Domination ends in a cliffhanger. It is the 1st in the Bought by the Billionaire serial romance series. The entire series will release summer 2015* *

Tracey’s Review

Jackson Hawke is a man bent on revenge. It’s taken years, but he is ready to show the woman that he once loved the consequences of her betrayal. Following a wild night of passion with a mysterious stranger and the suspect death of her twin sister, Hannah North has spent the past six years hidden away from the world. When circumstances arise that force her to offer herself as an escort to an unknown benefactor, she has no idea that her two worlds are about to collide.

Since her arrival on the scene, Lili Valente has quickly proven herself as one of the fresh voices in erotic fiction. Über-alpha men, fast-paced and intriguing plots, and, oh, yes, hotter than hot sex, make her books go-to reads for me. Dark Domination is the first in Lili’s new Bought By the Billionaire series, and it is on fire. Jackson Hawke is as alpha as they come, and, even hellbent on retribution, he’s one of the sexiest leading men I’ve read lately. And Hannah has been through a lot, but she’s willing to do what she has to to save her family, even if it means submitting to an unknown man, and moving far beyond her comfort zone. This book needs to come with a fan and an extra set of panties, because the sexy scenes are seriously molten. And, holy cliffhanger, Batman, Lili knows how to leave us cursing and ready to throw our e-readers. Waiting for Deep Domination (Book 2) will be no easy feat, but I’m all in. In the meantime, Dark Domination gets 5+ ‘hot, hot, did I say hot, give me a fan, because it’s HOT’ stars. Read it. You know you want to.

*** ARC provided for an honest review *** 5

Amazon:http://amzn.to/1Fhz8h3

Nook: http://bit.ly/1GnTnj9
Googleplay: http://bit.ly/1eOlgo1
Kobo: http://bit.ly/1FrBdGc
iBooks: http://apple.co/1IeDoUN

Hannah’s eyes flew open and her lips parted in a scream, but the enormous man straddling her pressed his hand tighter to her lips, muffling the sound.

She jerked her arms downward, ready to fight him off, only to discover that her wrists were tied to the headboard. Terror rushed through her and her pulse sped, setting her heart to slamming against her ribs as she tugged harder on her bonds. But the rope biting into her wrists assured her she wouldn’t be able to fight her way free.

She was bound tight, powerless to protect herself from whatever this man intended to do to her.

“Relax, princess. It’s just me.” The man leaned down, the water dripping from the end of his nose, landing on Hannah’s cheek, making her flinch. “I came in through the window. I thought I’d make that fantasy you were telling me about a reality.”

Hannah swallowed, her thundering heartbeat slowing a bit as she understood what was happening.

She wasn’t being attacked by an intruder. This man must be Harley’s guy of the moment, and he clearly thought he was straddling her sister. Once she cleared up the misunderstanding, he’d untie her and she could show him to the door. They’d both be embarrassed, no doubt, but she wasn’t about to be raped or murdered.

The realization made her whip-tight muscles sag with relief, an action she realized too late that the man took as an invitation to continue living out Harley’s bondage fantasy.

“I’ve been dying to touch you all day,” he said, his dry palm moving from her mouth to her breast, teasing her nipple through her thin tee shirt, drawing a gasp from her throat.

She expected his touch to feel foreign and unwelcome, but his fingers were gentle, teasing her with a sweetness that made her arch into his warm hand. Electricity shot from her breast to coil between her legs, the sensation intensified by the feel of the rope digging into her wrists as her biceps tightened reflexively in response to the stranger’s confident touch.

“God, the sounds you make drive me crazy,” the man said, pinching her nipple tight enough to make her gasp again.

“No, please, I’m not—” Hannah’s words ended in a moan as he pushed her shirt up and bent lower, tugging her nipple into the warm, wet heat of his mouth. His tongue flicked and teased, flooding her body with pleasure and longing so intense she was panting by the time he transferred his mouth to her other breast, sucking and nibbling at the aroused skin as his big hand slipped down the front of her panties, finding where she was already wet.

Wet, from her sister’s boyfriend’s mouth on her breasts. And now his fingers were sliding into where she ached, making her shudder.

If she didn’t stop this soon, it would be too late. There would be no avoiding tragedy, there would be only shame and the nightmare of confessing to her sister and this innocent man that she’d done something unforgivable.

“Stop, I’m not Harley.” She tensed her thighs only to relax them a second later when she realized her locked muscles were trapping his fingers inside her embarrassingly slick sex.

“No, you’re not,” he said, driving his fingers in and out of her as he trapped her nipple between his teeth and bit down, making her cry out in pain before he soothed away the hurt with his tongue.

“You’re my little slut,” he continued in his deep, sexy rumble of a voice, his fingers still busy between her legs, making the tension coiling low in her body fist even tighter. “And I’m going to fuck you until you scream.”

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Lili Valente has slept under the stars in Greece, eaten dinner at midnight with French men who couldn’t be trusted to keep their mouths on their food, and walked alone through Munich’s red light district after dark and lived to tell the tale.

These days you can find her writing in a tent beside the sea, drinking coconut water and thinking delightfully dirty thoughts.

Lili loves to hear from her readers. You can reach her via email at lili.valente.romance@gmail.com

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Release Blitz + 5 Star Review + Giveaway: Zack by Sawyer Bennett – Cold Fury Hockey Series – Book 3

Posted on 06/09/2015 by shellbellereads

Zack

Cold Fury Hockey Series – Book 3

By Sawyer Bennett

Synopsis

New York Times bestselling author Sawyer Bennett goes for a hat trick with the latest romance in a sexy series about cool-as-ice hockey players and the women heating up their lives.

Warning: The following contains spoilers from a cliffhanger in Garrett.

Rising star Zack Grantham has been stuck in a downward spiral of grief that has put his career on hold. Back on the road with the Carolina Cold Fury, still crippled by emotional baggage, and now a single dad, he’s in need of some serious help with his son. But while the nerdy new nanny wins his son’s heart, Zack isn’t sure he’s ready for a woman’s touch—even after getting a glimpse of the killer curves she’s hiding under those baggy clothes.

Kate Francis usually keeps men like Zack at a distance. Though his athlete’s body is honed to perfection, he refuses to move on with his life—and besides, he’s her boss. Still, the sparks between them are undeniable, tempting Kate to turn their professional relationship into a personal one. But before she makes a power play for Zack’s wounded heart, Kate will have to open him up again and show him that love is worth the fight.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Excerpt

The doorbell rings just as I’m trying to simultaneously flip a pancake with one hand and pull bacon off the griddle with another. The pancake ends up sticking, then folding in half, and my forearm hits the edge of the griddle. I swear I can hear my skin sizzle from the contact.

“Fuck!” I jerk backward, dropping both the fork in one hand and the spatula in the other, thankful that Ben is in his room playing and didn’t hear me say that. It’s a constant battle sometimes to watch my language around the kid.

Slapping at the control knobs, I turn the heat completely off the large electric griddle I had been struggling with and rub gently the burn on my arm as I head toward the front door. As I round the corner from the kitchen into the living room, I slam my bare foot into Ben’s large dump-truck toy, causing a string of curses to come out of my mouth now as I hobble onward to the door.

My front door is honey-colored oak and has a large oval glass inset with a beveled flower design. Gina had picked it out and had it installed, claiming that it allowed more light into the front entranceway. I thought it was a little too girly, but I didn’t argue with her. The house was her domain.

The glass lets me see my visitor on the other side, but provides no details because of the beveled cuts and partial frosting, which distort the person. But I know who it is.

Ben’s new nanny.

Roberta Francis.

She was Delaney’s top choice, and after I briefly scanned her application I had to sit and listen to my sister rave about her. Delaney felt she was perfect for the job in all respects. She was fantastic with children, having helped raise her three nephews for a period of time. She was also a student with a flexible schedule. Delaney actually droned on and on about this particular situation, but I tuned her out and started thinking about everything I’d need to do to get the house ready to put on the market. I was seriously considering selling it. Maybe move farther out into the country, where we could have some land and Ben could have a dog.

Finally, I just cut Delaney off and said, “She sounds perfect. Let’s go with her.”

And now, as I’m about to open the door to let a woman into my house who will have the most important of responsibilities in helping me care for my son, I’m suddenly realizing I don’t know anything about her other than her name and a vague recollection that she’s a student who helped raise her nephews.

Just fucking great. Way to be an involved and responsible parent, Zack.

The only saving grace at this moment is that Delaney thoroughly interviewed this girl, checked out her references, and was absolutely enchanted with her. I trust Delaney, so this will be fine. She’ll be great, in fact.

I wish I believed myself.

I swing the door open and get my first look at the woman who will be moving into my house and caring for my son. I’m not sure what I expected, but this wasn’t it.

Based on Delaney’s assessment, I expected her to have a superhero’s cape on, or at the very least a shiny gold halo and massive angel wings sprouting out of her back.

Instead…she’s sort of unremarkable.

She stares up at me with round, crystal-blue eyes that are devoid of any makeup and surrounded by brown plastic-framed glasses. Her hair is dark, held back with a headband and twisted up behind her so I have no clue how long it is. She’s small, barely coming up to my shoulder, and swimming in an oversized, extremely faded red NC State sweatshirt and baggy jeans that look about two sizes too big for her. An old backpack slung over her shoulder and a pair of well-worn tennis shoes complete her outfit.

“Roberta?” I ask hesitantly, because suddenly I’m thinking this may be someone soliciting something…or maybe even a homeless person looking for a meal. The way those clothes completely swallow her makes me think she’s starving underneath all that material.

She gives me an outwardly bright smile and sticks a delicate hand out toward me. Her sweatshirt is so big, her sleeves are rolled up around her wrists. “Actually…I go by Kate. Roberta’s my first name, which I was named after my daddy, Robert, but seriously…who wouldn’t hate that name? So I go by my middle name, which is Kathryn, actually. So I shorted it down to Kate, because Kathryn sounds just so…I don’t know…like a Catholic saint or something, and I’m not Catholic. I was raised Southern Baptist, but I really don’t go to church anymore, so—”

She pauses …finally, and takes a deep breath. Her smile goes from politely earnest to a sheepish grin, and she gives an apologetic shrug. “Sorry…I’m nervous and I tend to prattle when I’m nervous.”

I just blink at her, completely shocked silent. I have no clue what to think about this strange woman…no, girl, I think, because she looks so fucking young.

“How old are you?” I ask, my eyes glancing suspiciously at her hand still extended toward me.

“Twenty-three,” she says. “Didn’t Delaney tell you about me? You knew I was coming today, right?”

“Um…yeah, she did. I guess I didn’t hear her mention your age,” I mutter.

Kate takes a small step forward and pushes her hand farther toward me, giving me a pointed look. “It’s nice to meet you.”

Her voice is soft, with a moderate southern twang. I can’t remember if Delaney told me where she was from or not. Fuck…I can’t remember anything she said.

I reach out hesitantly and shake her hand. It’s tiny and her bones feel small, but she grips me surely. “Yeah…uh, nice to meet you too,” I say absently.

Our hands break apart and we just stare at each other.

Michel’s Review

I was dreading this book as much as I was anticipating this book. At the end of the second book, Garrett, Zack experienced an extreme tragedy in his life. I knew this book was going to be one that made me an emotional wreck. So I went into this book loaded with a box of tissue and chocolate within reach.

Sawyer Bennett wove her special story telling magic and delivered a story that not only was emotional but completely unexpected. The book starts with Zack in a strip bar trying to experience some kind of physical feeling. He has been numb since the car accident that took his long time live in girlfriend, Gina’s life. He has been with Gina since high school. They had a strong loving relationship. Their relationship was a role model for many of the other players on the team. They seemed perfect. They had a beautiful home, a beautiful son, and a close relationship. Zack is lost without Gina. The only thing holding him together is his young son, Ben.

His injuries are healing. He’s ready to get back on the ice. He has to find a caretaker for Ben before he can return to the team. When his sister hires the oddest nanny for Ben, it is a blessing and a curse. Although she’s good for Ben she may not be good for Zack. I am not talking about the kind of good or bad in a sexual manner. Kate’s easy going manner, great quirky sense of humor, and genuine honesty may be Zack’s undoing. She will touch places in his soul that he long forgot he buried. He will face truths about his and Gina’s relationship. He will face truths about himself. Most of all , he will have to deal with the guilt that is related to Gina’s death.

Zack will learn to live again. He will find a new man beneath the surface. His hopes and dreams will change. Kate will be the one to bring Zack back to the land of the living. But is he strong enough to live for a new life with Kate and give it everything he’s got inside? Is there room in his heart for anyone else other than Ben?

This book came as a great surprise. I was not a blubbering mess. I didn’t even cry. Sawyer Bennett focused on life rather than death. She gave an honest portrayal on how life goes on and no matter how hard we try to fight it. we do have room for more love. What surprised me the most was Zack. I was under the impression that he was a certain kind of guy from the previous books and he ended up being altogether different in a very good way.

This was not a story of loss and heartbreak, it was a story of hope and love.

Once again Sawyer Bennett delivered an outstanding book that touched my heart. I am looking forward to Ryker’s book. That man is drool worthy goalie that is begging for his story and happily ever after.

Sawyer Bennett has made me a Cold Fury Puck Bunny! I love those mighty men on the ice.

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The Cold Fury Series

Hockey star Alexander Crossman has a reputation as a cold-hearted player on and off the rink. Pushed into the sport by an alcoholic father, Alex isn’t afraid to give fans the proverbial middle finger, relishing his role as the MVP they love to hate. Management, however, isn’t so amused. Now Alex has a choice: fix his public image through community service or ride the bench. But Alex refuses to be molded into the Carolina Cold Fury poster boy . . . not even by a tempting redhead with killer curves.

As a social worker, Sutton Price is accustomed to difficult people—like Alex, who’s been assigned to help her create a drug-abuse awareness program for at-risk youth as part of the team’s effort to clean up his image. What she doesn’t expect is the arrogant smirk from his perfect lips to stir her most heated fantasies. But Sutton isn’t one to cross professional boundaries—and besides, Alex doesn’t do relationships . . . or does he? The more she sees behind Alex’s bad-boy façade, the more Sutton craves the man she uncovers.

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New York Times bestselling author Sawyer Bennett hits the ice with the story of a playboy athlete whose winning ways lead him to a beautiful woman with a lot to lose.

Carolina Cold Fury star Garrett Samuelson never wants to miss out on a single minute of fun. Whether he’s playing hockey, hanging out with friends, or walking the red carpet with a new date on his arm, he lives every day to the fullest. When he meets Olivia Case, he sees someone who’s exactly his type—confident, sexy, smart . . . his next fling. But the more he pursues her, the more Garrett shares a side of himself that other women don’t normally get to see.

Olivia has been keeping a secret. While Garrett lives for the next thrill, Olivia’s not sure she’ll live to see the next day. She’s undergoing treatment for some serious medical issues, and she doesn’t have time for a relationship with no guarantees—especially one with a hot-as-sin womanizer who won’t take no for an answer. But as she gets to know the real Garrett, Olivia can’t help falling for him . . . hard. To reveal the truth would mean risking everything—but you can’t score without taking the tough shots.

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Ryker – Book 4

Release Date: September 8 , 2015

The rugged men of the Carolina Cold Fury hockey team are winning hearts once again in another scorching novel from New York Times bestselling author Sawyer Bennett.

The stakes have never been higher for Carolina Cold Fury goalie Ryker Evans. With his contract running out, he’s got a year left to prove he’s still at the top of his game. And since his wife left him, Ryker has been balancing life as a pro-hockey star and a single parent to two daughters. Management is waiting for him to screw up. The fans are ready to pounce. Everybody’s taking dirty shots—except for the fiery redhead whose faith in Ryker gives him a fresh start.

As the league’s only female general manager, Gray Brannon has learned not to mix business with pleasure. And yet even this tough, talented career woman can’t help breaking her own rules as she gives Ryker everything she’s got. She hopes their hot streak will last forever, but with Ryker’s conniving ex plotting to reclaim her man, the pressure’s on Gray to step up and save a tender new love before it’s too late.

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

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

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