Review: Vipers Run by Stephanie Tyler

Posted on 07/18/2014 by shellbellereads

Vipers Run by Stephanie Tyler

Skull Creek Series ~ Book 1

Synopsis

The Vipers Motorcycle Club has strict rules for their brotherhood and the women who enter it. Now one Viper is about to find out how much trouble one woman can be…

Former Army Ranger Christian Cage Owens joined the Vipers Motorcycle Club for its sense of brotherhood. In return, he pledged to live outside the law, protecting club members and their families, as well as keeping other MCs out of Skulls Creek. But when Cage discovers that a rival MC—one Cage has an all too familiar past with—plans to push meth into his town, he calls an old Army buddy turned private investigator who’s helped the Vipers in the past. By doing so, Cage endangers both his friend and Calla Benson, a woman who works in the PI’s office. Now he’s made it his mission to track Calla down and do whatever it takes to protect her.

Thanks to the phone call with Cage, Calla knows she’s formed a deep connection to a dangerous man. She quickly discovers that although he may live by a different set of rules, Cage is an honorable man who wants to be more than her protector—if only she can accept his dangerous lifestyle. But Calla comes to Skulls Creek with her own set of secrets…secrets that threaten to tear her and Cage—and the Vipers MC—apart. As they put their newfound love to the ultimate test, Cage will risk everything he cares about to save her…

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Michel’s Review

Stephanie Tyler has done it again. The queen of romantic suspense has started a new series that is going to have the readers hooked.

This new series is called Skulls Creek and book one is titled Viper’s Run. Not only does this new series have the suspense, thrilling action, alpha men, strong women, red hot sexual chemistry, and romance that we have come to expect from Stephanie Tyler. This series features bad boy bikers from the Vipers Motorcycle Club.

What begins as a simple phone call, a plea for help, a dying man, and a woman’s need to reach out turns into an intensely dangerous situation that has the characters thrust into world of danger.

Cage has gone rogue from the Viper MC club to protect the members from a rival club. When the situation turns dire, he calls Calla, his friend and employee for help. She drops everything to come to his aid and that puts her life in danger.

Calla has her own secrets and adding Cage’s problems to the fold only makes her stronger. When the two are fighting to survive they find something that makes the costs of their plight worth more than living. They have found love. Through the midst of this danger they will build a relationship that will rock your heart.

Stephanie Tyler delivers a high octane, fast paced story that is loaded with sexual tension, through the roof chemistry, and red hot romance. Viper’s Run is the perfect start to the new Skulls Creek series.

Read this book!

Author Bio:

New York Times Bestselling author Stephanie Tyler writes what she loves to read – romantic suspense with military heroes for Bantam Dell. She lives in New York with her husband, her daughter and her weimaraner. She also writes paranormal erotic romance for Bantam Dell under the pen-name Sydney Croft.

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Review: Come To Me Softly by A. L. Jackson- Closer To You Series- Book 2

Posted on 07/17/2014 by shellbellereads

Come To Softly

By A. L. Jackson

Synopsis

From the New York Times bestselling author of Come to Me Quietly comes a scorching new adult romance in the Closer to You series.

A second chance at life…

A second chance at love…

Jared Holt never thought he deserved either—until he found both in the arms of Aly Moore. Aly has loved Jared for as long as she can remember, and she’s more than ready for the future they’re making together. But Jared can’t help remembering his own family. And he’ll never forgive himself for what happened to them. How can he allow himself the very happiness he once destroyed?

To live a life worthy of Aly, Jared knows he has to stop running and finally put his past to rest. But when he decides to face his demons head on, he encounters more than he bargained for: a dangerous mix of jealousy, lies, and dishonest intentions. When those intentions threaten Aly, Jared loses all control, giving into the rage that earned him his bad boy reputation years before. And he’ll fight to protect her no matter what it costs…even if he destroys himself in the process.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Michel’s Review

Come To Me Softly is the sequel to Come To Me Quietly by A. L. Jackson. Come To Me Softly picks up where Come To Me Quietly left off. In fact it picks up the morning after. This is not a stand alone novel. Come To Me Quietly must be read first.

Jared is still broken but has come to accept that he is important in Aly’s life. Although he still does not feel worthy of Aly’s love, he is willing to accept it and try to build a relationship that can help him move on from the past.

As these two build their relationship, the reader gets to see the importance of their connected pasts, how much they mean to each other, and learning how to love. It is learning to face your mistakes, learning to forgive yourself, learning to forgive others, and opening your heart to all possibilities.

Author Bio:

A.L. Jackson first found a love for writing during her days as a young mother and college student. She filled the journals she carried with short stories and poems used as an emotional outlet for the difficulties and joys she found in day-to-day life.

Years later, she shared a short story she’d been working on with her two closest friends and, with their encouragement, this story became her first full length novel. A.L. now spends her days writing in Southern Arizona where she lives with her husband and three beautiful children. Her favorite pastime is spending time with the ones she loves.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

This book is a beautiful emotional journey. Jared and Aly will find peace, but best of all, they find their happily ever after.

A. L. Jackson is a powerful writer. The reader experiences every word on the page. The characters, the emotions, and their story come across as very real. Another book well done, another conclusion very satisfying.

Review: When Day Breaks by Maya Banks – KGI Series – Book 9

Posted on 07/17/2014 by shellbellereads

When Day Breaks

By Maya Banks

Synopsis

THE ALL-NEW KGI NOVEL BY NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELING AUTHOR AUTHOR MAYA BANKS

The Kelly Group International (KGI): A super-elite, top secret, family-run business. Qualifications: High intelligence, rock-hard body, military background. Mission: Hostage/kidnap victim recovery. Intelligence gathering. Handling jobs the U.S. government can’t…

Eden is said to be one of the most beautiful women in the world. Her face has graced countless magazines and her body has sold millions of dollars of clothing. But her fame and beauty has earned her more than she ever imagined. Evil is stalking her, determined to extinguish the ethereal beauty forever.

Swanson or “Swanny” as his teammates call him is always up for the next mission. He came back from Afghanistan wounded and scarred. Hardly the kind of man who even belongs in the same room with Eden. And yet there’s something about the quiet beauty that stirs his blood and makes him dream of the impossible. Because Beauty loving the Beast only happens in fairy tales and KGI doesn’t deal in fairy tales. Ever.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Michel’s Review

2.5 Stars

I have been a huge fan of the KGI series by Maya Banks. I have been reading this series since the first book was published a few years ago. It is one of my go to series. I am pre ordering the next book the moment it is available. I have become very invested in the Kelly Group International. They are alpha men, strong women, a mission, a sizzling romance, and overall family saga. It is hot romantic suspense at it’s best.

Sadly to say, When Day Breaks, book 9 in the KGI series just did not live up to the excellent standards as the previous books in this series set.

The other books in this series have all had a strong romantic suspense element in the plots. When Day Breaks fell short. It lacked action, edge of the seat suspense, and was predictable. It also lacked the strong family feeling of unity. Although the other Kelly members were present, the reader just did not feel that “support” that has been so strongly present in the other books. I think this is because Maya was focusing on Swanny’s wounded soul. And yes while this was important, it is also important to see how the Kelly family brought him into the fold and gave him a place to belong. We just did not feel that in this book.

Overall I really love Swanny’s character. He is a wounded soul with scars on the inside as well as outside. He is a caring man with a lot to give others.

Swanny is paired up with Eden, a super model. I did not care much for her character. Her entire character is based off her looks, how others reacted to her looks, preconceive notions about models, and how her persona was more than that. It was hard to get past that and see how she really fell for the entire person that Swanny is.

I think Maya wanted to show that looks don’t make a difference, that beauty can love the beast, and that there is more to every person under the surface. And while she did that, she lost the focus of the romance, sexual chemistry, plot, and action that we have come to expect in the KGI books.

I am still completely invested in the KGI series. I still love Swanny. I was just hoping that his book would be the best in the series. But we still have Joe’s story to come. I am looking forward to it.

Author Bio:

Maya Banks lives in Texas with her husband, three children and assortment of pets. When she’s not writing, she can be found hunting, fishing or playing poker.

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Review: Cracks In The Armor by Helena Hunting – Clipped Wings Series-Book 2.5

Posted on 07/17/2014 by shellbellereads

Cracks In The Armor

By Helena Hunting

Synopsis

Chris, a sexy tattoo artist, tries to win the heart of Sarah, a grad student with little interest in him, in this second e-short and follow-up to Helena Hunting’s gripping love story, Clipped Wings—“twisted, dark, incredibly erotic…a love story like no other” (USA TODAY bestselling author Alice Clayton).

Part owner of the Chicago tattoo shop Inked Armor, Chris Zelter is a talented artist who decorates skin with gorgeous designs. He might look the part of the typical jacked-up, inked-up bad-boy, but underneath is a fiercely loyal, complicated man. Kicked out at sixteen, Chris has had to fend for himself for the last twelve years, making his Inked Armor crew as much family as they are business partners. For him, it’s enough—until he meets Sarah Adamson.

A grad student waitressing at the local strip club, Sarah is used to propositions and crude comments. The job is a means to an end—finish her MBA, pay off the tuition loans, and get a good job. Then she won’t have to rely on anyone to take care of her. So when brawny, tatted up Chris begins hanging out at the club, she rebuffs his advances. At first. But Chris isn’t like her usual clientele: despite his hard exterior, he’s almost…sweet.

Sometimes, the people with the roughest edges have the biggest hearts.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Michel’s Review

Cracks In The Armor by Helena Hunting is a novella in the Clipped Wings series. The main characters are Chris and Sarah. We met both of these characters in the previous Clipped Wings books that featured Hayden and Tenley. Cracks In The Armor is the prequel to Chris and Sarah’s upcoming full length novel.

We get an insight into what drives these characters. We get to know them a little better. We get a better understanding of why Chris is against commitments and relationships. We get to see him acting upon his attraction to Sarah and setting his sights on the pursuit. This attraction between the two has been building throughout the series.

Sarah keeps turning Chris down. No matter how hard he chases, she still says no. We get to see what her reasoning and fears are. We get to say the moment she takes a chance and says yes.

This couple has a long way to go. I can’t wait for their full length novel. Cracks In The Armor gives us a taste of what’s to come in the next book in the Clipped Wings series. It gives the reader’s a chance to become invested in the characters. We see their individuality and their compatibility.

Helena Hunting has her very own writing style that I immensely enjoy. Rather than create drama, angst, long drawn out plots with quick happily ever after endings, she gives us characters that experience real life. We see their daily ups and downs, their full personalities, their interactions with those around them, and we get to experience their emotional journey. The Clipped Wings series is one not to miss.

The Clipped Wings Series ~ ALL 4 STAR RATINGS ~

0.5 Cupcakes and Ink

1. Clipped Wings

1.5 Between The Cracks

2. Inked Armor

2.5 Cracks In Armor

Author Bio:

Helena Hunting lives on the outskirts of Toronto with her incredibly tolerant family and two moderately intolerant cats. She’s putting her English degree to good use by writing popular fiction. She is the author of Clipped Wings, her debut novel, and Inked Armor.

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Review: Proving Paul’s Promise by Tammy Falkner- Book 5 Reed Brothers Series

Posted on 07/16/2014 by shellbellereads

Proving Paul’s Promise by Tammy Falkner

The Reed Brothers Series Book 5

Synopsis

*Intended for readers over the age of 18 due to sexual content and the fact that the heroine has a potty mouth.* 🙂

This book is part of the Reed Brothers series, but you don’t have to read them in order. This book can be read as a stand alone.

Series reading order:

Tall, Tatted, and Tempting (currently free)

Smart, Sexy, and Secretive

Calmly, Carefully, Completely

Finally Finding Faith

Just Jelly Beans and Jealousy

Reagan’s Revenge and Ending Emily’s Engagement

Maybe Matt’s Miracle

He has watched her from afar…

Paul Reed has been raising children since he was a child himself, but he wouldn’t change his life, even if given an opportunity. That is, until one of his brothers says four little words that shake the foundation of his world. “She’s not a lesbian,” shouldn’t be quite so earth shattering, but suddenly the woman he loves is available, and he’ll do whatever it takes to win her over.

They call her Friday, and she’s hiding more than just her name…

Friday has worked in the Reeds’ tattoo parlor for four years. She’s become more than just an employee, and she loves being in the middle of something so wonderful. She treasures the way the Reeds live for one another, and she adores the way they take care of their family. She would do just about anything to be part of it, if not for the fact that she doesn’t deserve a family of her own. Or does she? Friday is punishing herself for her past, and by doing so, she pushes away the one man who could truly love her.

Separately, they’re strong. Together, they’re vulnerable. As a team, they rock.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

6 Star Review

by Michel

It is no secret that the Reed Brothers Series by Tammy Falkner is one of my all time favorite series. Each brother and each book has captured my heart . I love the family dynamics, dedication to one another, their compassion for others, their honest views, and interactions with their inner circle of friends, aquaintances, business associates, and extended family. Once the Reed Brothers take someone into their fold, they are fiercely loved.

The Reed Family consists of 5 brothers. After the death of their mother and their father’s abandonment they did everything to keep their family together. These five young men grew from teens to strong young men on their own. They held onto the values they had been taught as children and learned many more as they fought to keep their family together. They have survived many trials and tribulations. Through it all they had each other’s backs. One had cancer, one was a convict, one had special needs, one has their hopes to finish college and become a professional ball player and one has been the father figure that gave up his hopes and dreams to keep their family together. He promised his brothers that their life would turn out okay and did everything within his power to keep that promise. That brother is the oldest of the Reed clan and the one they all look to. Proving Paul’s Promise is the book that finally gives the oldest Reed a chance at his hopes and dreams.

Paul sacrificed his youth, his dreams, and his own happiness to raise his younger brothers. His long time girlfriend broke up with him because she didn’t want the responsibilities of the Reed clan. He is a single father dedicated to his little girl. He has watched his younger brothers grow from boys to men. He has stood strong when sickness and death threatened one of his brothers. He fought to keep the two youngest, the twins , on a positive path that would lead to bright futures. Although one became a convict, he still turned out to be successful in life because of the values Paul instilled in him at a young age.

Paul has watched three of his brothers struggle with their lives and chase their dreams. He has watched them find their true loves and start families. Only one brother is still single and in college. He has the apartment to himself and at loose ends. He still runs the family tattoo shop. In that shop is the one thing he wants more than anything. That is Friday. She has become an extended member of the Reed clan. She has seen their ups and downs. She loves them as if they were her own family. She secretly loves Paul but refuses to do anything about it. Her life is too screwed up. She has turned her back on her own family. How can she possibly have a relationship with a man when she can’t even handle her own life and relationships. Especially with a man like Paul, who is dedicated to his family no matter what. Paul promises her he won’t let her down, he will always have her back, and he will love her no matter what. Can she accept everything Paul has to offer? Paul has always kept his promises and never turns away.

I absolutely loved this book. Tammy Falkner showed vulnerabilities in two very strong people. She showed the readers a very different side of Paul Reed that made us love and respect him more. Of course we got to see how the Reed clan’s lives are moving forward and growing. As always it is a fabulous read.

This book can be read as a stand alone novel or in series order. I would highly recommend reading the series. It has been on my favorites list since the summer of 2013. Each and every book has been a 5 + book.

I can’t wait for the last brother, Sam’s book. I have a feeling Sam is going to be on his toes and baking up a storm to win his own love for life.

The Reed Brothers Series

1. Tall, Tatted, and Tempting

2. Smart, Sexy and Secretive

3. Calmly, Carefully, Completely

3.25 Finally Finding Faith

3.5 Just Jelly Beans and Jealousy

3. 75 Reagan’s Revenge

4. Maybe Matt’s Miracle

5. Proving Paul’s Promise

About Tammy Falkner:

Tammy Falkner lives on a farm in a lovely, sprawling little town in rural NC with her beekeeper husband and a house full of boys, a few dogs, and a cat or two (or five – who has time to count?). As half of the Lydia Dare team, she has co-written ten books, including the Westfield Wolves series and the Gentlemen Vampyre series. A huge fan of Regency England, she wrote three books for Sourcebooks as Tammy Falkner, featuring Regency Faeries, and just began her first New Adult adult series.

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Review: Against The Cage by Sidney Halston

Posted on 07/16/2014 by shellbellereads

Against The Cage

Sidney Halston

Synopsis:

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

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

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

Praise for Against the Cage

“Against the Cage is funny, steamy, scorching, and holy hot MMA fighter, I wanted more! Five stars all the way!”—New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Toni Aleo

“A steamy and fun romance that will leave readers begging for more! Sidney Halston is an author to watch!”—New York Times bestselling author Cherry Adair

“Halston’s new series opener creates an organic and sensual dynamic between Jack and Chrissy that makes an easy buy-in for readers. And if the story isn’t endearing enough, Jack’s feisty Chihuahua/pit bull mix will have readers instantly hooked and eagerly awaiting the second series installment.”—Library Journal

“A charming and funny Loveswept debut [that] entertained me thoroughly, made me laugh and wormed its way into my heart.”—Swept Away by Romance

“If you’re looking for a good contemporary romance, I cannot recommend Against the Cage enough!”—For Love and Books

“[Against the Cage] has a little of everything . . . from funny to sweet to simply hot! . . . This one was a joy to read, and I definitely recommend it.”—The Book Reading Gals

“Fast-paced, steamy . . . a great summer read! Enjoy!”—Talk Books to Me

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Rising Star

Michel’s Review

Against The Cage is the debut novel by Sidney Halston. It is a winner. The story is well written, the plot is well developed, the dialogue is fun and witty. The characters are charming, snarky, and loveable…including the Chihuahua named Drogo. This little guy ( claimed to be ¼ pit bull )made the book . He was hilarious. Best of all Against The Cage is a MMA Fighter book.

Against The Cage is based on childhood friends that become lovers twenty years later. Slade and Jack have been best friends since they were young boys. Slade’s younger, akward younger sister Chrissy was always the shy, smart, goofy girl trying to fit in with the boys. After a tragic event takes place Chrissy leaves town and returns eleven years later to bail her brother Slade out of jail.

When Chrissy arrives in town it turns out to be her worst day ever. She is pulled over for speeding after leaving the courthouse. The cop ends up being none other than Jack, her brother’s best friend. From there their relationship begins to develop. What starts as a rocky relationship harboring old resentments and issues evolves into a strong friendship that evolves into a romantic heartfelt love affair. The road isn’t easy but was fun getting there.

The chemistry and banter between Chrissy and Jack is sizzling.

Against The Cage held my full attention. It played on many emotions. One moment I was laughing my butt off, then I was yelling at the characters, then I was crying right along with them, and then I was swooning and falling head over heels in love. This book had everything a reader could want in a book.

I highly recommend Against The Cage by Sidney Halston. It’s a great debut and I look forward to reading more from this author.

Author Bio:

Sidney Halston lives her life with one simple rule: “The secret of getting ahead is getting started.”-Mark Twain. Or even simpler, “Just Do It”–Nike. And that’s exactly what she did.

After working hard as an attorney, Sidney picked up a pen for the first time at thirty years old to begin her dream of writing. Having never written anything other than very exciting legal briefs, she found an outlet for her imaginative, romantic side and wrote Seeing Red. That first pen stroke sealed the deal, and she fell in love with writing. Sidney lives in South Florida with her husband and children. She loves her family above all else, and reading follows a close second. When she’s not writing, you can find her reading and reading and reading. She’s a reader first and a writer second. When she’s not writing or reading, her life is complete and utter chaos, trying to balance family life with work and writing (and reading). But she wouldn’t have it any other way.

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Review: Breaking Danger by Lisa Marie Rice – Ghost Ops Book 3

Posted on 07/16/2014 by shellbellereads

Breaking Danger

By Lisa Marie Rice

Synopsis

Only one man and one woman can stop the world from burning in this thrilling final volume in Lisa Marie Rice’s sexy Ghost Ops series, in which an elite super-secret military team must face down doomsday and protect the gifted women they love.

Haven, a community of misfits and geniuses, is one of the few safe places remaining in a world on fire. Run by the Ghost Ops team, three dangerous, fearless, soldiers who were once betrayed and disgraced will fiercely protect their country and the women they adore from a deadly plague that has turned people into violent monsters.

Beautiful brilliant Dr. Sophie Daniels is trapped in her home with the only antidote to the plague. Former Ghost Ops elite operative Jon Ryan is sent on a suicide rescue mission, brutally fighting his way to her side. Together they must cross treacherous terrain before they can return to Haven. But for them to succeed, Sophie must trust this tormented soul and place her life, and her heart, in his hands.

Years of combat training has prepared Jon for this moment. Unafraid, nothing is too dangerous now that he’s found Sophie. He will risk everything, fight anyone, for her and a future filled with hope and love.

The Ghost Ops Series

Book 1: Heart of Danger

Book 2: I Dream of Danger

Author’s Note: BREAKING DANGER is the thrilling conclusion to the Ghost Ops trilogy. Each book can be read as a standalone.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Michel’s Review

Breaking Danger is book three in the Ghost Ops series. It is the continuing story of three soldiers that are considered traitors to their country. This book can be read as a stand alone or in series order.

Lisa Marie Rice has maintained an excellent standard with this series and this book. She has created an intense world where the reader is kept on the edge of their seats. The action is intense. She has created a sizzling hot romance and in each book the featured character finds their own little piece of heaven.

Jon Ryan, the best strategist and tracker in the group is responsible for bringing Sophie Daniels, a virologists, into the fold at the Haven.

Sophie Daniels worked at Arka Pharmacauticals. All the scientists from Arka are being captured. Most were able to flee but Sophie was not that lucky. Sophie has managed to steal the vaccine that cured the plague virus that was created by Dr. Lee in Arka’s Lab.

The virus was intended to create super soldiers but turned into something horrific. Instead of super soldiers there are Zombie like creatures that are super strong, fast, lacking in motor control, and mindless. Each infected person can spread this onto others.

When Jon finally attains Sophie they are forced to hide out for days. During this time they begin to get know each other and find that they are both attracted to one another. Their attraction grows into a hot, sexy, and meaningful relationship. They will have to survive the nightmare first. They are the ones that hold the cure for the virus and are the only hope for the human race.

This book is intense. It will keep the reader on the edge of their seats.

The characters are a force within themselves, put them together and they are unstoppable. The charismatic characters, the well excuted plot, dynamic dialogue, romantic scenes, and chilling suspense will keep the reader hooked until the very last word.

Author Bio:

Lisa Marie Rice is eternally 30 years old and will never age. She is tall and willowy and beautiful. Men drop at her feet like ripe pears. She has won every major book prize in the world. She is a black belt with advanced degrees in archaeology, nuclear physics, and Tibetan literature. She is a concert pianist. Did I mention her Nobel Prize? Of course, Lisa Marie Rice is a virtual woman and exists only at the keyboard when writing erotic romance. She disappears when the monitor winks off.

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Release Blitz: Beautifully Done by Riley MacKenzie

Posted on 07/16/2014 by shellbellereads

Beautifully Done by Riley MacKenzie

Synopsis

Diagnosis: Borrowed time
Treatment: Trust
Prognosis: Beautifully Done

Asher Craig drives fast, flies high, and screws hard. But make no mistake, he’s a gentleman.

He learned way too young that we’re all on borrowed time. Fair or unfair, you only get one ride. He vows to live for the moment because it’s the only time he owns. The past is beyond his control and the future may not exist. With his only loyalties being his family, he thrives for that edge where plunging over is always in the realm of possibility.

When a beautiful familiar face tilts his axis, he re-examines everything and realizes that second chances are overrated and a lifetime of firsts are irreplaceable. In the end, it’s not her medical degree but his trust that needs to prove that the ride together is worth it … until it’s Beautifully Done.

***Author’s note***
Contains spoilers from Beautifully Awake. We highly recommend reading Chase and Lili’s story first. For readers 18+(less)

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Authors Bio:

Yep. That’s an “s.” There are two of us!

We’re East coast girls separated by Long Island Sound who met in Physician Assistant School and have been besties ever since. We can safely say that thirteen miles of water does not get in the way because we talk or text, no exaggeration, at least 150 times a day. No, really, we do—about everything and nothing. Shockingly, we never (we mean never) run out of things to say. Umm, ever. We definitely laugh A LOT and we’re a tad sarcastic. And if we’re being totally honest, one or two people might have, on occasion, used our names and ‘dramatic’ in the same sentence. But it’s hard to trust the sources since they married us.

It only took twelve years, two husbands, five kids, two dogs, and a two-week vacation in Cape Cod later to decide the romance world needed a splash of medicine. Write what you know.

So you can easily find us at 4 o’clock on Bank Street beach with a glass of cold Prosecco brainstorming. And guaranteed if we bump into you, literally, it’s only because our iPhones are glued to our hands (totally out of our control) either writing or editing our next novel (and yes, it is possible to do from your iPhone, we mastered it … damn those straight quotations).

When we are not working on our book or reading the latest angsty romance on our kindles, you basically name it and we have it going on. Soccer, lacrosse, golf, swimming, dance, gymnastics, football, chess, baseball, basketball, skiing, ice skating, school, homework, and more school.Oh yeah, did we forget to mention our careers in medicine?

Needless to say, we realized fast that something had to go, so we opted for sleep. It’s completely overrated (yet so AMAZING) and delirium makes everything funnier. Good thing we share a brain and can pretty much complete each other’s sentences (definitely weird, we know).

So that’s our story, who we are … just add AUTHORS to the list!

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Review: Liam’s Journey by Heidi McLaughlin

Posted on 07/15/2014 by shellbellereads

Liam’s Journey

by Heidi McLaughlin

Synopsis

Books 1 & 4 of The Beaumont Series – Together for a limited time only

The journey for Liam begins at eighteen. Having, what many would consider the brightest future; he gives it all up for the unknown.

The bright lights beckon, but hearts break. Liam’s successful, smart and lonely. When a loss hits too close, he puts everything behind him to return home.

To go back, means to remember.

To remember means to hurt again.

Lives changed when Liam Westbury left Beaumont and they’ll change again once he returns as Liam Page.

Books 1 & 4 of The Beaumont Series – Together for a limited time only

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Michel’s Reviews

This is a big treat! A must buy book! Heidi McLaughlin has combined book 1 and book 4 of the Beaumont series into one volume. For a limited time reader’s can now get the whole story of Liam’s Journey.

This incredible volume contains two books that show the journey of a boy growing into being a man. What it took for this troubled young man to evolve into a man that can be admired for his devotion, integrity, and dedication will capture your heart. It is an honest look at the realities that life thrust upon us whether they are good or bad. It shows that every life situation can shape us into a better person. It’s okay to make mistakes. It’s okay to search for happiness. It’s okay to fall down. It’s okay to succeed. It’s okay to love with all your heart. All these life lessons have made Liam Westbury, the all star boy, become the sensational superstar Liam Page.

His dreams started out on the football field and lead to the stage. His choices changed his dreams. His journey through these turbulent years has lead him home to Beaumont and to the one dream he never let go of. Now is his time to grab that dream and run with it.

Liam Westbury / Liam Page is one of my all time favorite book boyfriends. Now you can get your hot little hands all over both these Liam’s. His story will not disappoint.

Liam’s Journey can be read as a stand alone novels. Although the books are the beginning and ending of the Beaumont Series, they are just one character showing two sides of the coin. The other books in the series feature the other members of the 4225 West band and friends from the Beaumont community.

Here are my 5 Star Reviews for each book individually:

Forever My Girl ***** 5 Stars

I absolutely loved this book. Not only was it an emotional love story that captures your heart. You ache for both the hero and herione and all that they have lost . This book is written with a very healthy dose of how relationships really work in real life. I liked that the author wrote in first person and alternated chapters with his point of view and her point of view. The author delivered each POV and had the book progress into the story rather than being repetitive. I highly recommend this book. I can’t wait for the next book in the series.

Liam Page will steal your heart!

Finding My Way *****5 Stars

Finding My Way by Heidi McLaughlin is the fourth book in the Beaumont series. The Beaumont series is based on the members of the band, 4225 West. Finding My Way takes this series full circle. It goes back to the very beginning and gives the reader insight on the evolution of Liam Westbury, to superstar Liam Page. The reader gets to witness the painful journey this young man had to travel to become the man he is today. We fell in love with him in the first book, Forever My Girl. We forgave him for his mistakes and transgressions because he proved that he was a man of strong character and true heart. We sympathized with Josie Preston and felt Liam had to prove his love and commitment to her. While we knew the reasons behind Liam’s betrayals, it was hard to forgive him until he proved his worth as a man. Then the reader got to experience a very mature adult relationship between Josie and Liam. We absolutely loved this couple and their story. We have loved how this couple has thrived and grown throughout the Beaumont series.

Finding My Way takes us back to the beginning. This book takes the reader back to the high school days and the transgressions that Liam Westbury commits. This book is the “missing years” of Liam’s life outside of Beaumont. It is the ten year journey that leads him home to Beaumont (Forever My Girl) and to the woman he was meant to spend his life with.

This book has had mixed reactions from readers. While some absolutely loved the unfolding of Liam’s secrets and new life, others felt he was selfish, uncaring and totally self absorbed. They had invested themselves with Josie’s side of the story, her hurts, her sense of betrayal, and sympathy of the life she had to live during those ten years of separation. My reaction was with the first group, I absolutely loved Liam’s journey. I loved getting inside his head and understanding his reactions and actions. I even resented Josie for not being there for Liam when he needed her most. I felt like she was the selfish one, that she was absorbed in her own dreams, and dismissed the very thing that soothed Liam’s soul. Every one of the people that were closest to Liam wanted something from him, set expectations that were beyond what any teenager should handle, and did not give him the emotional support he so desperately needed. He was a good kid. He tried his hardest to make everyone happy. He gave everything that was expected of him and then some. In return, he was betrayed, ignored, and left with a sense of hopelessness. Liam had to rebel to become a whole man with a sense of self worth. His journey is heartbreaking, uplifting, and remarkable. Through it all he retains all the endearing qualities that made the golden boy he once was a man worth all the gold in the world. He is a giving man that is dedicated to the ones he loves. He gives the gift of friendship without any strings attached. But most of all, he knows who he is and what he wants in life.

Heidi McLaughlin showcased her gifted writing skills. Not only did she deliver an emotionally charged story that captured the reader’s heart, she displayed an honest look into her character’s psyche. She made the teenage Liam just as convincing as the adult Liam. Her portrayal was in true character at each stage of life. The reader did not feel like a teenage boy was thinking like an adult man. They did not feel like a young twenty something man was looking at life like a man ready to settle down and start a family. She honestly portrayed how a person matures in life.

This book can be read as the first book in the Beaumont series or it can be read as the last book in the series. It is superbly written and a great addition to this series.

Beaumont Series Reading Order

Forever My Girl

My Unexpected Forever

Finding My Forever

Finding My Way

Author Bio:

Heidi is a NYT, USA Today, Kobo, Digital Book World, Amazon and Barnes & Noble Bestselling author.

Originally from the Pacific Northwest, she now lives in picturesque Vermont, with her husband and two daughters. Also renting space in their home is an over-hyper Beagle/Jack Russell and two Parakeets.

During the day Heidi is behind a desk talking about Land Use. At night, she’s writing one of the many stories planned for release or sitting court-side during either daughter’s basketball games.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Release Blitz: Whiskey Prince by Toni Aleo

Posted on 07/14/2014 by shellbellereads

HAPPY RELEASE DAY!

WHISKEY PRINCE IS NOW AVAILABLE!

Take a risk.
Do something drastic.
Fall in love.

When Amberlyn Reilly loses her mother, her whole world comes crashing down. Having been caretaker to her for most of her teenage years, Amberlyn is inexperienced in many aspects of life. She hasn’t had time to live, have fun, or enjoy even the little things. It’s only when a letter from her mother, asking her to fulfill three things, sends her off to Ireland to live a life she never thought possible that she begins to heal.

Declan O’Callaghan was born and raised in Ireland and has his family’s legendary whiskey in his veins. He’s shy and not a fan of the pressure and spotlight that comes with his family name, or the title he was given at birth—the Whiskey Prince. Declan knows just what he wants and that is to take over the family dynasty, but when his father gives him an ultimatum, everything he’s worked for could come undone in the blink of an eye.

With six months to get married, the reclusive Declan spots Amberlyn across a lake and instantly feels the need to know her. Soon, the two find themselves traveling down a path neither expected. However, like any road, there are bumps and side streets to derail them. Can Declan help find the pieces that will make Amberlyn whole again? And will Amberlyn stay or run when she learns of Declan’s deadline of marriage?

>>> ADD TO GOODREADS <<<

AVAILABLE TODAY!
AMAZON † Kobo † iBooks

OPEN INTERNATIONAL

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Toni Aleo is the author of the Nasvhille Assassins series: Taking Shots, Trying to Score, Empty Net, Falling for the Backup, and Blue Lines.

When not rooting for her beloved Nashville Predators, she’s probably going to her husband’s and son’s hockey games and her daughter’s dance competitions, taking pictures, scrapbooking, or reading the latest romance novel.

She lives in the Nashville area with her husband, two children, and a bulldog. Read more about Toni here.

Website † Facebook † Twitter † GoodReads

Toni Aleo will be attending Chapter by Chapter Book Rave in NY on September 20th! Over a 100+ authors signing! Check it out!

www.cbcevent.com

Saucy Southern Readers

professional, honest, and timely book reviews

Tag Archives: Contemporary Romance

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Release Blitz: Whiskey Prince by Toni Aleo

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