ARC Review: Bound To Danger by Katie Reus- Deadly Ops-Book 2

Posted on 08/05/2014 by shellbellereads

Bound To Danger

Deadly Ops- Book 2

By Katie Reus

Synopsis

At a benefit dinner, community activist Maria Cervantes overhears two men plotting a terrorist attack that could rock Miami to its core. But before she can alert authorities, she’s almost killed in a massive explosion—and wakes up in a hospital with no memory of what happened. As the sole survivor of the attack, she is now a person of interest to the NSA—and especially to Agent Cade O’Reilly. Because Maria is the one woman Cade has never been able to forget.

Years ago, they were closer than either was willing to admit—until Cade disappeared when Maria needed him most. Now he’s sticking by her, whether she likes it or not. Because the memories locked inside her mind could hold vital clues to the next attack. Because terrorists want her dead—and because he never wants to let her go again.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Michel’s Review

Looking for excitement, danger, suspense, and steamy hot romance? Bound to Danger by Katie Reus is the ticket. Bound to Danger is the second book in the Deadly Ops series. It can be read as a stand alone novel.

The way Katie Reus writes makes it easy for the reader to jump right into the novel and become absorbed until the very last word. She builds the story with escalating suspense, blazing sexual tension, and a well paced plot. Katie Reus writes with passion and excitement.

Bound to Danger opens with Maria Cervantes attending an elite party to network and get donations for the community youth program she runs. She accidentally overhears a terrorist plot right before an explosion kills several people and leaves her injured with a memory loss. Maria is the only witness alive .The agencies in charge are not sure if she is a victim or a terrorist.

When Cade O’Reilly, NSA operative, ex marine discovers Maria’s name on the list of survivors, he insists on being assigned to the case. He had served with Maria’s brother before his death. He had a strong friendship with Maria before Riel’s death. After Riel died, Cade cut all ties with Maria due to guilt.

Maria is shocked when Cade walks back into her life. Between the conflicted feelings of attraction and feelings of betrayal, Maria is not sure how to deal with Cade. Top off the escalating danger, the hunt for the terrorists, and the multiple enemies, she is living in fear every moment. Cade is well trained, lethal, and quick on his feet. He gives her a sense of safety and reassurance that she will survive this ordeal. But will her heart survive Cade?

Between the suspense, the complex web of enemies, the sexual tension, and sizzling romance, Bound to Danger will not disappoint.

Katie Reus creates memorable characters, a complex plot, and a romantic story. No matter what genre she is writing, she always delivers a powerful book. She has become one of my favorite writers. I highly recommend Bound to Danger.

Author Bio

Katie Reus is the New York Times, USA Today, & IndieReader bestselling author of the Red Stone Security series, the Moon Shifter series and the Deadly Ops series. She fell in love with romance at a young age thanks to books she pilfered from her mom’s stash. Years later she loves reading romance almost as much as she loves writing it. However, she didn’t always know she wanted to be a writer. After changing majors many times, she finally graduated with a degree in psychology. Not long after that she discovered a new love. Writing. She now spends her days writing dark paranormal romance and sexy romantic suspense.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Release Blitz: Temptation by Robin Covington

Posted on 08/05/2014 by shellbellereads

Burn up the sheets one page at a time with Robin Covington and her sizzling romance, Temptation!!

Temptation

By Robin Covington

Synopsis:

She needs to be good.

Five years ago, Kit Landry was homeless and alone at sixteen. Determined to ditch her crappy life, she moved to Nashville with only $200, her guitar, and a notebook full of songs. She hit it big as America’s country sweetheart, but a year of living like a rock star plus a stint in rehab has killed any good will she had with her label. The suits have ordered Kit to shape up or ship out of the limelight. The last thing she needs is a hot, sexy distraction with a sinful smile.

He doesn’t know the meaning of the word.

Max Butler is as far from a celebrity as you can get and he likes it that way. A Nashville firefighter, he’s living the single life with a revolving door of parties, friends, and a different woman in his bed every night. When his normal life suddenly collides with the girl on his favorite Rolling Stone cover, he sees the perfect chance to fulfill his ultimate fantasy and see just how bad Kit can be.

Sometimes bad is so very good.

With three weeks until Kit leaves for her big tour, Max promises to give her a break from being the good girl–no strings attached. But when hot days lead to sultry nights, the lines get blurred and suddenly three weeks of bad might not be good enough.

Excerpt:

I couldn’t stop thinking about that kiss. How she’d tasted, how she’d felt in my arms. Despite the difference in our size, Kit fit perfectly against me—like she was made to be there. We had chemistry, alright. But that was all it was or would ever be.

“Excuse me, can you tell me where I can find Shannon Jones?”

The voice came out of nowhere and I lurched up, banging the top of my head on the edge of the fire truck door. Biting back the “fuck me” that could get me written up, I straightened, turned, and found myself looking right into the eyes of the woman I’d just been obsessing over.

Kit was standing there in my station, an expression of surprise and then concern on her face as she glanced to where I’d clonked the living shit out of myself just seconds before. She was wearing a low-cut, little blue sundress and cowboy boots and everything else was miles of bare skin and dark curls. My brain went mushy. Maybe I’d hit my head harder than I’d thought.

Her voice was full of concern as she moved closer. “Max, are you okay? I didn’t mean to sneak up behind you.”

I stared at her like an idiot. In person, I was reminded again of just how gorgeous she was. She walked towards me and I couldn’t move, couldn’t take my eyes off of her. If you looked up “dumbstruck” in the dictionary, you’d see my goofy-ass face pasted right next to it.

I still hadn’t answered when she stopped in front of me. Standing on tiptoe she touched my recent injury. “Are you sure you’re okay?”

Her voice was feminine, with a whiskey-edge that tied my gut up in knots. Her hand was cool on my over-heated skin and, as she moved closer, I could smell her sweet, summery, honeysuckle scent. All I wanted to do was pull her lush curves against my body, take her mouth, and find out exactly where this crazy chemistry would take us.

I definitely had a head injury because suddenly I realized that I had her close enough to do all those things and I wasn’t doing anything about it.
Get your shit together, Butler. Carpe the fucking diem.

I grabbed her by the waist and pulled her towards me, turning us so she was backed up against the door of the fire truck. She still held her packages in her hands and I missed the feel of her touch on my body, but I could work with what I had.

She stared up at me, her big, blue eyes wide with shock but mostly what I saw there was curiosity. She licked her lips and that was all the invitation I needed. I leaned into her, bypassing the prize of her mouth to press a kiss to her throat, just above the place where her pulse pounded against her skin. She was delicious all over, sweet and warm, and I wanted to drag her down to the floor and bury my cock inside her body for hours.

I looked down and realized that my hands were shaking, my breath as quick as hers—and I hadn’t even kissed her yet.

“When we fuck, it’s probably going to kill me.” It came out as a growl, as I tipped her face up to mine and wasted no more time in taking what I wanted.

Kit didn’t play games, no pretending that she didn’t want this, too. She opened to me, meeting my tongue more than halfway when I dove inside. She was as hungry as I was and the kiss was anything but the usual finesse I used on women. There was no slow seduction here. It wasn’t in my power to play games. I was at the mercy of whatever she would give me.

I slanted my mouth over hers, barely giving her a chance to take a breath before I went at her again like I was starving.

And I was famished. For her. It was the craziest thing I’d ever experienced, but I wasn’t going to let a little insanity stop me. It never had before.

I wrapped my arms around her waist, inserting my body in between her legs. The skirt of her dress rode up high on her thighs as I pressed my hard-on against the hot cleft of her pussy. I rolled my hips against her and she dropped the bags in her hands with a thud against the concrete, weaving her fingers into my hair with a pressure that brought a little pain with the pleasure.

I didn’t care. She could do whatever she wanted to my body as long as I got to do exactly what I was doing right now. As long as she let me do this and so much more.

Kristyn’s Review

Kit Landry is a country music star searching for redemption with her record label. This is her one last chance and then the studio had to go and catch fire.

Enter Max. Sexy firefighter with a tendency to get into trouble. Exactly what she doesn’t need. But their attraction and the fact that they keep running into each other is too much and so they jump headfirst into a sex only relationship with a deadline. Three weeks. Just long enough to develop the feelings they wanted to avoid.

They both have issues with relationships. Max is scarred from experiencing a horrible tragedy that happened to a woman he loved after he found out some bad news about her. He decided then an there not to risk being hurt again. So he has a series of meaningless flings.

Kit is also damaged from her past relationship. She has secrets that she has to hide and getting close to someone would mean risking them leaving if they found out. So she decides to focus on the one thing that has never let her down, her music.

This is a great book about not holding back because of fear. Letting go and going after what you want is how you find true happiness. Kit and Max had to go through the fear of being left behind in order to put themselves out there and find true happiness.

The characters in this book are fallible. They make mistakes and face the consequences of their actions. The story flows smoothly and is full of life and emotion. This is a book that is relatable. Everyone is afraid to put themselves out there and risk being hurt. But fear shouldn’t be a reason to hold back. It should be motivation to push forward.

About Robin Covington:

Robin Covington, who NYT Best Selling authors, Robyn Carr and Carly Phillips, said was their new “auto-buy author”, writes sizzling hot contemporary and paranormal romance.

A Night of Southern Comfort, her best-selling debut novel was a 2012 finalist in the RT Book Reviews Reviewers Choice Awards, earned 4.5 stars and was touted by RT Book Reviews as bringing a “fresh, modern feel to the genre while still sticking to the things that get our adrenaline pumping — sex and danger”. When she’s not exploring the theme of fooling around and falling in love, she’s collecting tasty man candy, indulging in a little comic book geek love, and stalking Joe Manganiello.

Robin is a member of the Romance Writers of America, the Washington and Maryland Romance Writers, a faculty member at Romance University, a member of the Waterworld Mermaids, and a contributor to the Happy Ever After blog at USA Today. You can find Robin on her website, Facebook, Pinterest, and Twitter (@RobinCovington).

Robin lives in Maryland with her hilarious husband, brilliant children, and ginormous puppy.

Twitter | Amazon Author Page | Facebook | Goodreads | Website

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Release Blitz and ARC Review: Indiscretion Volume 1 by Elisabeth Grace- Indiscretion Serial Romance

Posted on 08/04/2014 by shellbellereads

INDISCRETION: Volume One

Synopsis

F*ck and chuck. Pump and dump. Hit it and quit it. One night stand. Didn’t matter how I branded it—that’s all she had wanted it to be. That much was clear when she left me with my pants down and my dick still out.

What she hadn’t counted on was fate intervening and our worlds colliding—again.

The day I showed back up in the life of Chloe Griffins, I knew I had to have her again. My body was hungry for another taste. Like an addict, I’d been craving another hit for months, and there she was—flesh and bone, tits and ass.

The fact that she worked for the competition should’ve been reason enough for me to leave her alone. I had a job to do that summer and f*cking Chloe wasn’t part of it. But I was like a man possessed.

I’d do whatever it took to have her again.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / Kobo / ITunes

Excerpt:

“You do not need to bring that up.” Her eyes narrowed and I could tell she was pissed.

“Really?” I raised an eyebrow. “Do you react this way to every man who gives you an orgasm? Or just the ones you choose to hit and run?”

“I, what? I did not…” she stammered.

Good. I had her off-kilter. At least now I knew the feeling was mutual. “Look, it’s fine.” I shrugged and grinned, showing her I wasn’t all that bad. “Why did you take off that night?”

She looked at me, contemplating her answer. “I was embarrassed. I’ve never done anything like that before. I had a little too much to drink and let’s just say I wasn’t thinking clearly.”

I took a step closer, my gaze locking on hers. My hand moved to her face and cupped her jaw. I couldn’t resist. “Oh, I’d say you were clear enough with me about what you wanted.” I grinned and inched closer to her. The heat between us was palpable. I enjoyed making her uncomfortable. Maybe it was payback for her having left me in the dust that night.

Who am I kidding? It was the attraction that still pulsed between us, even months later, in the light of day and stone-cold sober.

Her mouth dropped open. “Please, you were the one who kissed me first!”

“True, but you were the one who straddled me like you were gearing up to ride bronco,” I said with a pretend laisse-faire tone.

Ah, there was that adorable flush in her cheeks again, when it had just started to subside.

Coming Soon….

Indiscretion Volume 2- August 18, 2014

Indiscretion Volume 3- September 1, 2014

Indiscretion Volume 4- September 15, 2014

Michel’s Review

Indiscretion by Elisabeth Grace is a fantastic start to a new serial romance.

It starts out with a bang. We meet Chloe, an independent and professional woman out to score a one night stand while in NYC city celebrating her best friend’s upcoming wedding. That one night stand may be completely out of Chloe’s character but when she lays eyes on Max, it makes it quite easy.

Max is hotter than sex on a stick. The man oozes sex appeal. It’s not hard for Chloe to drop her panties. After all, it is a one night stand, they will never have to see one another again.

Fast forward to two months later. Chloe is hustling to make her numbers in her real estate career. She has an opportunity to buy into the brokerage if her numbers are at the right point. She is determined to focus on her goals and career. She can’t let anything stand in her way. That is until she runs into Max again. Now she is doing everything to try to keep her focus off of Max and on her career.

Max has come to the small town in Maine on business. He works for a competitor developer. It is his job to make sure the site is off the ground, sales are coming in, and making a huge profit for his company. The company is owned by his father , so that puts more pressure on him to perform his job perfectly. He intends to do just that until he runs into the beautiful, mysterious Chloe. He wants more.

As these two begin to get to know one another the sexual tension escalates. They find they want more than just a one night stand.

This was a great start for the new serial. It introduced the readers to the characters. It showcased their sexual chemistry and lit the match under the burner. This volume ended with Max and Chloe beginning to ignite until danger threatens their very existence.

I can’t wait to read Indiscretion Volume 2.

Giveaway:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Author Bio:

Welcome! I’m Elisabeth Grace, or El if you prefer, and I write New Adult Contemporary Romance.

I’d been an avid reader my entire life, but when I discovered romance novels during my first pregnancy I was hooked! Not sure if it was the hormones or the lack of a life that was headed my way once my daughter was born, but since then I’ve been devouring several romance books a week. I love nothing more than reading about some serious alpha males and a happily ever after.

Things you should know about me…

I live outside Toronto, Canada…eh. (Yes, it’s true. We Canadians say ‘eh’ A LOT.)

I’m a wife and mommy to two small children which I refer to as Little Miss and Mr. Magoo.

I own one cat spawned by the devil. Seriously. He’s as cute as they come but you’ve never met a meaner feline. In retrospect we should have named him, Lucifer. I have the scars to prove it.

I believe there’s no such thing as too much chocolate. Or popcorn. Or bread. Or potatoes. Yes, you guessed it…I’m a sugar and carb addict.

I hate running. Always have, always will. Unless David Gandy’s in the vicinity you won’t find me doing it. Ever. Not sure who David Gandy is and think you might want to become a Gandy Girl like me? Google him. You can thank me later.

I’m a LOVER of all music. The 1200+ songs on my IPod can attest to the variety of my musical tastes. Hubby and I try to travel to a different music festival every year and are regular concert goers.

My name is Elisabeth and I like reality TV. There I admitted it and that’s the first step, right? Yes, I’m a writer and I see the need for scripted shows, but sometimes there’s just something so entertaining about watching one Real Housewife lose it on another one. I could listen to Cochran’s diatribe on his fellow castaways for hours.

Of the four of us that make up my family, three of us are Leo’s. Let’s say it together…DRAMA!

I may be the world’s worst cook. My poor children. Unless Daddy’s cooking they know not to expect much.

I write every night after my kids are in bed until the wee hours of the morning. This wouldn’t be a problem except for the fact that I have always been an early-bird-catches-the-worm kind-of girl, so 5:00am comes early. Sleep is over-rated, I say.

If you are a lover of romance novels, steamy bedroom scenes and alpha males than you may enjoy my stories! 🙂

I LOVE talking with fellow readers about books! There’s nothing better than discovering your next favorite read because someone recommended it to you! If you’re the same I’d encourage you to reach out to me via one of my social media links so we can chat!

Happy Reading!

Best, El

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

If you’re US based and you want to receive a text message when Elisabeth has a new book go LIVE, text ROMANCE to 313131!

ARC Review: How To Reprimand Your Rock Star by Mina Vaughn

Posted on 07/31/2014 by shellbellereads

How To Reprimand Your Rock Star

By Mina Vaughn

Synopsis

In this fun and saucy romance novel, all-star college basketball player Thea dominates on the courts—and off—with a rock star who is determined to win her over.

Thea is a star basketball player at UConn on track to be Rookie of the Year. That is, if she can stay focused on the game. Lately that hasn’t been going so well, as her knee has been bothering her. But that’s not the only thing on her mind…

Ever since rock star Keaton Lowe surprised her in the girl’s locker room, Thea can’t stop thinking about him. On top of his status and enticing ways, he seems to know everything about her. But some of his actions cross the line, and Keaton needs to be punished. Will Thea keep her head in the game, or get distracted by her other favorite pastime—reprimanding her rock star?

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Michel’s Review

How To Reprimand Your Rock Star by Mina Vaughn was one of the most original books I have read. It was fun, delightful, a bit quirky, and had some interesting characters. Although it touched lightly on the BDSM theme, it was done with an original touch. The characters performed their roles, Domme/ Sub, with what felt right for their relationship. There were no dark moments and every sex scene had a delightful feel to it.

Thea is a star in her own right. She is a gifted basketball player. She is on the verge of becoming the Rookie of the Year if she can stay focused on her game. She doesn’t have time for a needy relationship. But when she meets the cocky rockstar, Keaton Lowe, she has a new game to focus on.

For Thea, exploring this relationship with Keaton is about control. For Keaton it is about relinquishing control ,which he has never done.

With the help of mentor, Thea will become more confident on the court and in the bedroom. She will explore her sexuality and her inner strengths.

The benefits are just as good for Keaton. For the first time he doesn’t feel like a performer. He can let go of his persona and reap the benefits of letting go. It is freeing.

What starts out as an experimental relationship evolves into loving relationship. It is a loving relationship that has mutual respect and commitment to each other as individuals. Their devotion to each other will make the reader melt.

This is not a BDSM story. It has some kink but not the full blown scenario we are accustomed to reading in the BDSM theme. This is a story of two people finding love in a fun way.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more books from Mina Vaughn. She has a fresh voice and creative mind.

Author Bio

Mina Vaughn is an international woman of mystery and a shoe whore with a heart of gold. When she’s not writing her unique brand of silly smut, she’s plundering Sephora for any pin up girl makeup she can find. Mina’s debut novel, an erotic comedy entitled HOW TO DISCIPLINE YOUR VAMPIRE is about a punishment-seeking vampire who meets a quirky Domme with a serious role play fetish, available now from Simon and Schuster’s Pocket Star.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

ARC Review: Ricochet by Skye Jordan- Renegades Series-Book 3

Posted on 07/30/2014 by shellbellereads

Richochet

Renegades Series- Book 3

Skye Jordan

Synopsis

After a tragic incident in Afghanistan leaves Master Sergeant Nathan Ryker the only man standing in his tight-knit team, he spirals into an alcohol-and-sex induced escape. A call from his lifelong buddy pulls Ryker from the shadows with a request for help with his stunt company’s latest blockbuster. If Ryker can survive the next three weeks of leave and get back to his remaining men, he might just be all right. But a sexy woman who can take his mind off his trauma is too hard to resist, and when he hooks up with Renegades’ sultry, snarky office manager, his sanity takes a backseat to his first glimpse of a future he isn’t sure he deserves.

Still reeling from a bitter romantic betrayal, Rachel Hart wants nothing more than an uncomplicated hookup. So when the mysterious Nathan seduces her with a little dirty talk and one delicious kiss, Rachel drowns all her good sense in a Mandarin and soda and gives herself over to a night of sexual bliss. But her memories tarnish in the morning light when Rachel discovers his real identity and his link to Renegades. Her job and her friends are the only thing holding her life together, and she won’t be ruined by one sultry night with this damaged and dangerously sexy man.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Michel’s Review

Ricochet is my favorite book of the Renegade Series by Skye Jordan. That is saying a lot since I loved the previous books. The Renegades are a company of stunt specialists in Hollywood. Each member has a specific speciality, a unique personality, a huge amount of sex appeal, and embrace their bad boy persona.

In the midst of all of this male testosterone is Rachel Hart. She is the commander, the organizer, the go to girl, the best friend, the little sister, and glue that keeps this company together. Her job title is secretary but she is much more than her job description.

Her latest task is to pick up Troy’s friend that is an explosive specialist at the airport. The Renegades desperately need Ryker’s expertise on a stunt in their current film. She has talked to Ryker on the phone and had a flirty conversation with him but does not know what he looks like. Once she arrives at the airport, late due to a fender bender on the interstate, she cannot find Ryker anywhere. She is beyond annoyed and just wants to end another bad day. She heads to the airport bar to fortify her spirits and shed some of the crappy day. At the bar she meets a smoking hot stranger that fills some of that “fortification” she desperately needs. One hot sexy night with a stranger is the ticket. And what a night it turns out to be. She has found herself a real sex God. Their chemistry is explosive. Their one night together has blown apart every other sexual encounter she has had. But it’s one night only. She does not have the time or the inclination for a relationship. She has dealt with the mess that relationships bring, come out battered, and has sworn never let it happen again.

Nathan Ryker is on mandatory leave from the military to get his head strait. After sixteen years, most in the warzone, he has demons that haunt him. He has trouble sleeping, has triggers that cause him to revert back to the warzone, and has been broken to pieces. When the opportunity to work with an old buddy arises, it seems like a perfect solution to take a reprieve from his destructive path of drinking and screwing. When he meets the sexy secretary Rachel in the airport bar he can’t help but take the one night she is offering. He quickly realized that she was the sexy secretary from the Renegades that he had some fun, flirty conversations with. She has no clue that his first name is Nathan and he’s happy to leave it that way. One explosive night with Rachel will turn Nathan Rykers point of detonation into a new direction.

Once the two face each other at work they know that they are off limits to one another. But now that they have had a taste of each , they want and need more.

Rachel and Nathan’s relationship will build from instant lust to a deep rooted friendship to a devoted loving relationship. Their banter is feisty, fun, emotional, and sexy. Their chemistry is off the charts. Their romance is heart warming.

I loved everything about this book. Nathan and Rachel were dynamic characters. Their stories and emotions were very real. The writing, story flow, and pacing were perfect. Jordan Skye has added another fabulous book to the fabulous Renegade series.

Ricochet can be read as a stand alone novel or in series order. I recommend reading the complete series. It will not disappoint!

The Renegade Series

“Hotter than hell and a lot more fun. Skye Jordan’s writing sizzles!”

-Elisabeth Naughton, New York Times bestselling author

A couture wedding dress designer to the rich and famous, Lexi LaCroix’s image means everything. Raised on the wrong side of the tracks, her years of polish and hard work are finally about to pay off. But crossing paths with a sexier-than-sin, bad-boy biker who makes her realize how much living she’s sacrificed for her success, one touch is all it takes to threaten her carefully choreographed life.

Jax Chamberlin has been screwed over by gorgeous gold-diggers one too many times. Though he runs his own stunt company, all of America knows his Hollywood face even years after he’s given up acting. Finding a woman who doesn’t plan to use him as a stepping stone to success is virtually impossible, so when the charming and mysterious Lexi offers him a chance at a totally anonymous hook-up during an out of town trip, Jax accepts. Only Lexi is more sextacular than charming, and Jax wants more. Lots more.

But Lexi’s got a major hang-up over his renegade lifestyle. And if she finds out his connections could catapult her to the top of her career, he’s afraid the fantasy woman he’s falling for might just end up like all the rest.

Warning: This novel contains uber-hot sexual encounters. For safety’s sake, read along with pitcher of ice-water. Or…wine…

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Sassy, smart, and sexy, former supermodel-turned-tech guru Rubi Russo has it all—looks, money, confidence and freedom. Her life is a whirlwind of fast cars and fleeting affairs—and she likes it that way. With a past like Rubi’s, forever isn’t part of her vocabulary. So when studly Renegade stuntman Wes Lawson wants to take their friendship to the next level, she’s all out.

Raised a simple country-boy, Wes knows the brazen Rubi isn’t his type. But after spending time with her, he discovers she’s everything he’s ever wanted in a woman. To win her wild rebel heart, he’ll have to prove he sees behind her smokescreen to all the goodness she tries to hide. Then it’s just a matter of crushing her fears, shattering her barriers, and convincing her that loving him is everything she’s been missing in her life, too.

Piece of cake.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Author Bio

Sometimes fun. Sometimes naughty. Always romantic.

I am a New York Times Bestselling Author writing under the pseudonym Skye Jordan for my more … sexually heated … works.

My Skye Jordan novels are all about enjoying that little wild streak we all have, but probably don’t let out often enough. About those fantasies we usually don’t get the opportunity to indulge. About stretching limits, checking out the dark side, playing naughty and maybe even acting a little wicked. They’re about escape and fun and pleasure and romance.

And, yes, even love. Because even as Skye Jordan I’m just a happily ever after kinda gal.

Thanks for reading!

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

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

Posted on 07/27/2014 by shellbellereads

Sugar On The Edge

Last Call Series – Book 3

Sawyer Bennett

Synopsis

He’s utterly alone…

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

She’s running in place and getting nowhere…

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

Two unlikely lovers…

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

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

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

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Michel’s Review

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Author Bio:

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

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

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Review: Hopeful by Louise Bay

Posted on 07/26/2014 by shellbellereads

Expected publication: July 15th 2014

***Not suitable for younger readers due to sexual content and language.***

Guys like Joel Wentworth weren’t supposed to fall in love with girls like me. He could have had his pick of the girls on campus, but somehow the laws of nature were defied and we fell crazy in love.

For a short time, I thought it would be for infinity.

On July 10, 2006, immediately after graduation, Joel left for New York. And, despite him wanting me to go with him, I’d refused, unwilling to disappoint my parents and risk the judgment of my friends. I hadn’t seen him again. Never even spoke to him.

I’ve spent the last eight years working hard to put my career front and center in my life, dodging any personal complications. I have a strict no-dating policy. I’ve managed to piece together a reality that works for me.

Until now.

Now, Joel’s coming back to London.

And I need to get over him before he gets over here.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Tracey’s Review

Ava Elliot has a pretty good life. A law student at university, she’s smart and studious, and has a tightly-knit group of friends that are like family. Joel Wentworth is the whole package. Not only intelligent, he is handsome, nice, and funny. Girls love him and guys want to be like him. Ava would never have thought that they had anything in common, let alone that they could fall in love with each other.

‘Hopeful’ is one of those ‘happy accident’ books for me, one that I knew absolutely nothing about, but which I enjoyed completely. Louise Bay has written a very well-crafted story, full of characters that I would absolutely love to spend time with. I loved watching Ava and Joel get to know each other. Louise really took the time to show their relationship developing, so that it seemed much more realistic when thy realized their feelings for each other had grown from friendship to love. And the passion was definitely there, too. Their growing attraction to each other was palpable, so that by the time that they acted on it, it was inevitable, and not only sweet, but very steamy, as well.

‘Hopeful’ was not all sunshine and happy times. Some of the best stories are those that involve a hefty dose of angst, and that is definitely present here. It allowed, I think, for further character development, especially Ava’s, which was necessary for the book to end the way that it did. I am looking forward to reading more from Louise, and really hope that Jules and Adam get their own books. A definite 4.5 – 5 star read.

Author Bio:

I write sexy, romantic, contemporary romance novels: the kind I like to read.

Ideas for my first novel started to filter into my imagination when my reading coincided with a re-encounter with an old love and soon after I began what became ‘Faithful’, my first novel, published in April 2014.

Ruined by romantic mini-series of the seventies and eighties, I love all things romantic. There’s not enough of it in real life so I’ll settle for books and films.  I love the rain, the West Wing, London, days when you don’t have to wear make-up, being alone, being with friends, elephants and champagne.

Website ~ Facebook ~Goodreads

Review: Flirting With Forever by Kim Boykin

Posted on 07/26/2014 by shellbellereads

Flirting With Forever

By Kim Boykin

Synopsis

Forty-year-old Tara Jordan’s first book, The Perfect Marriage in 30 Days, is at the top of the bestseller lists, and her publisher wants her on a book tour ASAP. Tara’s about to live her dream only there’s one problem. Her husband of 15 years has just walked out, leaving Tara on the brink of financial ruin with no choice but to promote a self-help book about marriage when hers is secretly in ruins.

Enter publicist Jake Randall, 30, who’s had it with hand holding newbie authors channeling their inner divas on their first book tours, until he meets Tara. Their instant attraction blossoms quickly into love. Tara thinks she has achieved her dreams and earned her license to thrive until her husband, Jim returns determined to win her back.

Buy: Amazon

Tracey’s Review

Tara Jordan should be happy. After all, her best-selling book on how to have the perfect marriage is a hit, and her dream of being a successful author has finally come true. But her public persona is a far cry from true life. Her husband of many years, embarrassed by her book and jealous of her success, has left and taken all their money.

Left with no choice but to go on tour to promote both her marriage book and her suddenly successful romance novels, Tara is left in the capable and very attractive hands of Jake Randall, promoter extraordinaire. And, did I mention that he’s hot? Like, swoon-worthy, over-the-top sexy? And as attracted to Tara as she is to him. The only problem? He’s ten years younger than she is.

I really enjoyed Flirting With Forever. Kim Boykin wrote a sweet sexy story of a woman that is finally coming into her own, and the man that is more than happy to help her get there. The banter and vibe between Tara and Jake is lovely, and I couldn’t put the book down, because I was just that invested in their story. Combined with wonderful secondary characters, this is a read that I would recommend without hesitation. I really look forward to the next installment in Kim’s Island Bliss series.

Author Bio:

Kim Boykin was raised in her South Carolina home with two girly sisters and great parents. She had a happy, boring childhood, which sucks if you’re a writer because you have to create your own crazy. PLUS after you’re published and you’re being interviewed, it’s very appealing when the author actually lived in Crazy Town or somewhere in the general vicinity.

Almost everything she learned about writing, she learned from her grandpa, an oral storyteller, who was a master teacher of pacing and sensory detail. He held court under an old mimosa tree on the family farm, and people used to come from all around to hear him tell stories about growing up in rural Georgia and share his unique take on the world.

As a stay-at-home mom, Kim started writing, grabbing snip-its of time in the car rider line or on the bleachers at swim practice. After her kids left the nest, she started submitting her work, sold her first novel at 53, and has been writing like crazy ever since.

Thanks to the lessons she learned under that mimosa tree, her books are well reviewed and, according to RT Book Reviews, feel like they’re being told across a kitchen table. She is the author of The Wisdom of Hair from Berkley, Steal Me, Cowboy and Sweet Home Carolina from Tule, and Palmetto Moon, also from Berkley 8/5/14. While her heart is always in the Lowcountry of South Carolina, she lives in Charlotte and has a heart for hairstylist, librarians, and book junkies like herself.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Review: Tamed by Emma Chase

Posted on 07/25/2014 by shellbellereads

Tamed

Tangled Series Book 3

By Emma Chase

Synopsis

Stop me if you’ve heard this one before: girl meets player, they fall in love, player changes his ways.

It’s a good story. But it’s not our story. Ours is a lot more colorful.

When I met Dee I knew right away that she was special. When she met me, she thought I was anything but special—I was exactly like every other guy who’d screwed her over and let her down. It took some time to convince her otherwise, but turns out I can make a convincing argument when sex is at stake.

You might know where this story’s headed. But the best part isn’t where we ended up.

It’s how we got there.

TAMED goes back in time to the Tangled days. But this time around, it’s not Drew dishing out the advice and opinions—it’s his best friend Matthew, who of course is dealing with Dee Dee.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Robin’s Review

Kudos to Emma Chase for writing another outstanding romantic comedy! Tamed is the third novel of her popular Tangled series, with events occurring simultaneous to the events of Tangled. This time, Matthew Fisher shares his own great wisdom with readers on dating and relationships. He works as an investment banker at the same firm as his best friend, Drew Evans. Although Matthew is not quite as colorful in his narration as Drew Evans, his knowledge on dating, women and other subjects is definitely entertaining and quite humorous!

Matthew thought he was doing just fine until he was introduced to the wild and beautiful Delores Warren by his coworker, Kate Brooks. Dee is spirited. Bold. Intelligent. Brutally honest. A rocket scientist who dresses like a stripper to throw people off their game. A chemist who has a “nice rack” – and Matthew just happens to be a “boob man.” With his curiosity and libido both being piqued, Matthew begs Kate for a hook-up. Although Kate agrees to his request, she warns Matthew that Dee doesn’t do complicated or relationships – which sounds just perfect to him.

Matthew finds Dee interesting. Challenging. Fascinating. She holds his attention. Really, Matthew has no chance. Want a night on the town dancing? Great! In the mood for a one-night stand? No problem! Just don’t ask Dee for more than she is able to give. Having been hurt too many times by the men in her life, Dee Warren avoids emotions and commitment at all costs. Matthew thinks he can spend quality time with Dee Warren without becoming attached. After all, he is a player! Why not pick up a copy of Tamed to see how this situation unfolds?

What do I think? I absolutely love Emma Chase’s writing style! Her writing is really funny. Witty, laugh out loud funny! Her novels tend to be written from a first person point of view, with her main character dishing out plenty of advice to readers about dating, relationships and general life experiences. Emma Chase does a fantastic job of pulling off a male point of view. She just seems to understand how men are wired – how they think. Something I truly enjoyed about Tamed is that we are able to experience the events of Tangled from Matthew Fisher’s point of view – to see what transpired between Drew and Kate from a different perspective. I also have to mention that the chemistry between Dee and Matthew was scorching hot! Although Tamed is not my favorite novel of this series – that honor goes to Drew Evans and Tangled – I am adding it to my list of favorites for 2014. Emma Chase has earned a solid 4.5 star rating from this reviewer for Tamed!

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.

Some of Emma’s favorite quotes from Tangled –

“You are making me crazy!” ”Crazy like you want to rip my shirt off again?” ”No – crazy like the itch of a yeast infection that won’t go away!”

“And I will be damned if Kate Brooks is going to walk her ass in here and take that away from me. No matter how fine of an ass it may be.”

“Words are cheap. Actions win wars. Actions heal wounds.”

“It makes me want to kiss her and strangle her at the same time. I’ve never been into S&M. But I’m beginning to see its benefits.”

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

ARC Review: No Regrets by Claire Kent

Posted on 07/22/2014 by shellbellereads

No Regrets

By Claire Kent

Synopsis

On my last birthday, I made one vow for the year. Live with no regrets. Eleven months have passed, though, and nothing has changed. I still sleep alone, spend my life working, and never move out of my comfort zone.

Then the loss of my dog throws my whole life out of orbit, and I end up in bed with a very hot and slightly-too-young veterinarian, who has recently made a vow of his own. Live with no strings. Josh is more than happy to help me with the list of things I’ve been afraid to try. Semi-public sex. Spanking. Anal sex. He’s a willing partner for everything I’ve wondered about, as long as I don’t demand more.

He’s serious about his no-strings philosophy. As serious as I am about living with no regrets. I can’t help but fall for him, even though I know better. So my biggest regret might be a broken heart.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Tracey’s Review

2.5 Stars

Leslie has made herself a promise to live her life with no regrets. And while her life is not bad, nothing significant has changed in the year since she made her vow to herself. But when Leslie loses Polly, her dog and best friend, she is devastated, and left unable to move beyond her depression.

Josh Bennett has faced some dark times, but has left them behind to come home and become a vet. He and Leslie meet when she brings Polly to his office, and again later after Polly’s death. They’re attracted to each other, but Josh is only interested in a sexual relationship, with no strings attached. In the interest of living with ‘no regrets,’ Leslie agrees to his rules, and they begin a casual, yet extremely passionate, affair.

I had a hard time with this book. The nature of Leslie’s and Josh’s relationship, while not my cup of tea, was not the issue. The characters themselves often came across as oddly formal with each other, even as they were as close as two people can be, and the language that they used during their trysts was both stilted and slangy at the same time. I just had a really hard time getting into their interactions, and understanding how they sustained being together. As well, some of the scenes were far too graphic in nature than the situation warranted, in my opinion, and not erotic at all. I have seen the same sort of scenarios in other books in this genre presented in ways that added to, rather than detracted from, the moment.

I always want to like a book that I’m reading, and hate not to finish once I’ve started. I did make it to the end of ‘No Regrets,’ and the story and the characters did redeem themselves a bit, but this one just missed the mark for me, and I can only give it 2.5 stars.

Author Bio:

Claire has been writing romance novels since she was twelve years old. She has a PhD in British literature and, when she’s not writing, she teaches English at the university level.

She also writes romance novels under the penname Noelle Adams.

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Saucy Southern Readers

professional, honest, and timely book reviews

Tag Archives: Contemporary Romance

ARC Review: Bound To Danger by Katie Reus- Deadly Ops-Book 2

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Release Blitz and ARC Review: Indiscretion Volume 1 by Elisabeth Grace- Indiscretion Serial Romance

INDISCRETION: Volume One

Excerpt:

ARC Review: How To Reprimand Your Rock Star by Mina Vaughn

ARC Review: Ricochet by Skye Jordan- Renegades Series-Book 3

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

Review: Hopeful by Louise Bay

Review: Flirting With Forever by Kim Boykin

Review: Tamed by Emma Chase

ARC Review: No Regrets by Claire Kent

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INDISCRETION: Volume One

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