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.

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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.”

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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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Review: Finding Jordie by H.J. Harley

Posted on 07/22/2014 by shellbellereads

Finding Jordie

Jordan Spagnato Series-Book 1

By H.J. Harley

Synopsis

A widow of eight years, Jordie is devoted to her daughter and knows how to protect her own heart… until Nathan Harper lends a hand when she’s punched by a drunkard being forcefully removed from her NYC East Village bar.

Nathan is fascinated by the sassy bar owner, who doesn’t recognize him from the Silver Screen and who appears more interested in conversation than sex.

But when shared words spark mutual passion, the menacing phone calls begin, and a stalker, who will stop at nothing to have Jordie, turns his crosshairs on Nathan.

THE JORDAN SPAGNATO SERIES, in order

Finding Jordie

Finding Nathan

Finding Rachel

Buy- Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Michel’s Review

Don’t you just love it when you stumble on a new author and good book?

While I was attending The Tennessee Valley Author Event , a very well known author pulled me aside. She said, “There is a book I want you to read. I want you to promise not to look at the cover. Just read the book. It’s very good.”

How could I not read this book? My curiosity was piqued.

When I opened this book, I tried very hard not to look at the cover. From the very first paragraph I was drawn into the book. I could not put this book down. This book has everything a reader looks for in a good book. The story is fast paced, loaded with humor, full of red-hot chemistry and sexual tension, romantic, and hair raising suspense. And as a bonus the author created delightful, quirky characters that wiggle their way into your heart the moment they are introduced.

When I finished this book I was very satisfied with the time I had invested in it. I was heading straight to Amazon to one click the second book in this series. Finding Jordie did not end on a cliffhanger that forced me to buy the next book. I just wanted more of these characters and more of their happily ever after story.

Jordie Spagnato is a strong woman. She is a business woman, tough bar owner, single mother, and widow. She keeps her friends close to heart and loves fiercely. She has learned to be tough when necessary, compassionate towards others, insightful to people’s needs, and gives her heart in full measures. She doesn’t let the past drag her down. She moves forward in life and makes the best of it. When she meets Nathan Harper her world she created for herself is tilted on it’s axis. Before she knows what has hit her, she is head over heels in love with the sexiest man she ever met. When she finds out that man is the hottest Hollywood star, it doesn’t change her opinion of him.

Nathan Harper is enthralled with Jordie Spagnato. She looks at him as a man and not a superstar. She treats him like she treats her friends and loved ones. How could he not fall in love with her?

Just as they are about to take the next step in their relationship a nasty stalker makes his presence known. The danger is just beginning. The suspense will escalate and keep you on the edge of your seat.

This book had every element I look for in a book. It is well written and fast paced. H.J. Harley is a new author that is going to make her mark in the romance world.

Read this book!

Author Bio:

I grew up in Bricktown New Jersey, less than an hour away from New York City. As a teenager and my early twenties, I loved hanging out in the glamor of NYC. I was a “City Brat” so it was pretty hard for me when I packed up all my crap and three cats in 2005, for a life changing road trip and moved to California. I travelled around the country until I met my other half in 2005.

After serving twelve years in the Air Force, the man of my dreams ended his military career and we moved to Georgia six years ago. Since then, we’ve settled down in Leesburg GA, and had our first child.

No place has ever come close to replacing the magic of New York City in my mind. So when I decided to try this romance writing gig out, naturally I set my first book, ‘Finding Jordie’ there.

I enjoy reading, and spending time with my family. Reality shows are my guilty pleasure. I’m a sucker for romantic comedies and Robert Pattinson. I am a pro at goofing off, I talk with my hands, (I’m Italian!) I drink way too much coffee, and get too little sleep. Oh, and I have a thing for Jackie-O sized sunglasses. I have four furry kids and most importantly, I have a beautiful daughter. I’m always striving to be the best Mom possible.

I’m very passionate about the things I love, that’s why I was outraged when they cancelled SMASH and Southland! It should be considered to be a small miracle if you ever get to see a serious or pic of me posing all nice and pretty…yeah, I’m not that girl. I’m a spontaneous goof and believe the best things in life come naturally. Yes, that includes random no make-up selfies during a 2:00a.m. writing marathon.

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Review: The Other Side of Someday by Carey Heywood

Posted on 07/19/2014 by shellbellereads

The Other Side of Someday

Carolina Days ~ Book 1

Carey Heywood

Synopsis

Falling in love?

Courtney Grayson has been there, done that.

Men, who needs them? Love wasn’t everything she thought it would be. This time around, she’s doing things differently. She hasn’t sworn off men for good; she just isn’t interested in settling. Trusting someone with her heart again? Someday, but not today.

Falling in love?

Sorry, Clay Bradshaw is not the guy for you.

He’s never been in love and he doesn’t see it happening. Hooking up can be fun, but more often than not, women are a distraction he doesn’t need. He’s a busy man, and doesn’t have time to date, let alone fall in love. Will someone ever change that? There’s always a chance, someday.

Life doesn’t always go as planned, and love may find them both on the other side of someday.

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Michel’s Review

I loved The Other Side of Someday by Carey Heywood. It was a realistic love story most of us ordinary people experience. She showed how very real, ordinary people can have the fairytale forever love. It is all a matter of seeing the beauty of finding that one person that makes your beat to a new pace. Finding a person worthy of building a life with. A partner that will love you through the ups and downs, no matter what. I have to commend Carey for reminding us how important love is in our lives.

Courtney Grayson is having the worst day of her life. That day starts out with her fretting that she forgot to turn off the stove. The day spirals out of control from that point. She gets fired from her job, she has a flat tire in the pouring down rain, and when she goes to pay for the tire, her bank has rejected the card transaction. An act of kindness from the older mechanic that repaired her tire will send her on her way with aa better outlook. She feels like this act of kindness is the turning point in her day, that is, until she arrives home. She finds her fiancé of eight years in bed with another woman. Her day has gone from the worst day to the most devastating day of her life.

That devastating day and the one act of kindness will set Courtney Grayson on a new path in life. The path she was destined to take. A path that will teach her about herself and her deepest desires. A path that will lead her to Clay Bradshaw.

She will find her inner strength, open her eyes to new possibilities, grow as an individual, and find the inner confidence she never knew she had. She will find a love that will respect her individuality, cherish her for who she is, and love her no matter what.

Clay Bradshaw is your ordinary average Joe. Sure he’s one of the sexiest men that Courtney has ever met. But sexy guys are a dime a dozen. What makes Clay special is that he is an ordinary guy, has an ordinary job, comes from a loving middle class family, and values all those precious things in his life.

Clay has never been in love or had a steady relationship. Once he gets to know Courtney he knows that she is the girl for him. He understands that she needs to heal from her past relationship. She needs to find herself again. He will be patient, bide his time, and show her that she can always depend on him. He will show her how much he values her as an individual. He will show her how important she is. He will give her his heart.

Courtney and Clay’s relationship is a slow and beautiful build. We see this couple go from flirty attraction to friendship. Their friendship moves onto dating. From dating to becoming a couple. Once they become a couple they build a beautiful life together.

The Other Side of Someday is a story that we all want to experience. I highly recommend this book.

Author Bio:

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author with six books out and many more to come. She was born and raised in Alexandria, Virginia. Ever the mild-mannered citizen, Carey spends her days working in the world of finance, and at night, she retreats into the lives of her fictional characters. Supporting her all the way are her husband, three sometimes-adorable children, and their nine-pound attack Yorkie.

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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.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

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.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Saucy Southern Readers

professional, honest, and timely book reviews

Tag Archives: Contemporary Romance

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

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

Review: Against The Cage by Sidney Halston

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