Release Day Blitz + Giveaway + Review: Last Light by M. Pierce- Night Owl Trilogy- Book 2

Posted on 10/28/2014 by shellbellereads

Last Light

Night Owl Trilogy- Book 2

By M. Pierce

Synopsis

Tensions rise, secrets grow bigger, and passions run deeper—and hotter—in Last Light, the second novel of the Night Owl Trilogy from bestselling author M. Pierce.

Matt Sky is missing. After a solo ascent of Longs Peak that left only a large blood stain, tatters of climbing clothing, and the tracks of an animal in the snow, he is presumed dead.

Hannah Catalano is guarding a secret: she knows Matt is alive. After Matt’s memorial service, she lingers on the East Coast with his family, but it soon becomes clear that his brothers’ motives are less than gracious. Nate Sky is bent on tracking down the author of Night Owl, a book that charts the last days of Matt’s life with uncanny and scandalous accuracy, and which appeared only after his death. Seth Sky is bent on getting Hannah into his bed.

Hidden away in the woods, Matt and Hannah strive desperately to maintain their ruse and their relationship—but their web of lies only tightens as Matt struggles with the consequences of his decision, and Hannah tries to escape Nate’s libel suit and fend off Seth’s advances…until Hannah is put in danger, and Matt must make a life or death choice.

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Excerpt

Matt insisted on carrying me to the bathroom. I hugged his neck.

“Matt, you realize I can walk with a black eye, right?”

“I’ll be the judge of that.” He set me on the counter and I squeaked; the marble was frigid under my bare bottom. He dropped one of my bath bombs in the tub and watched it fizz and color the water purple.

Once, I managed to convince Matt to use a bath bomb with me. It was called a “sex bomb” and it was supposed to “put us in the mood” with “exciting scents” and “natural pheromones.” I grinned at the memory. As soon as Matt realized the bomb was coating his skin in sparkles, he leapt out of the tub ranting about “looking Twilighty” and “smelling like a girl.”

“What’re you grinning at?”

“You.” I smiled. “And this bath, which is such a transparent effort to avoid saying goodbye. Sweet… but transparent.”

Matt frowned and paced the small space of the bathroom. Ha! I was right. Matt planned to leave me in the tub and slip away.

My poor, adorable night owl—he really had issues with goodbyes.

“No,” he mumbled. “Maybe…”

“Can I induce you to stay a little longer?” I uncrossed my legs deliberately and spread them. Matt watched. He folded his arms and tilted his head.

“How does your cheek feel?”

“They’re cold.” I grinned.

“And you say I’m bad.” He slid me off the sink and turned me. I watched our reflection through the patchy steam on the mirror. Matt—God, he was so tall, and the look on his face was arresting. He wanted me. I knew that look.

Night Owl

Night Owl Trilogy-Book 1

By M. Pierce

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“Tautly written, complex, and vibrating with a dark sensuality that will have you at once blushing and anxious. You’ll think you have this book pegged . . . but you’ll be wrong.”—Christina Lauren, New York Times, USA Today, and international bestselling authors of The Beautiful Bastard series

From bestselling ebook author M. Pierce comes the first novel in a provocative erotic trilogy where an anonymous online writing partnership turns into an uncontrollable, passionate obsession

At twenty-eight, Matt Sky has the perfect life. He has a beautiful girlfriend, a massive inheritance, and four national bestsellers — all penned under his airtight alias, M. Pierce.

At twenty-seven, Hannah Catalano is a train wreck. Her boyfriend is a deadbeat and her job is abysmal.

Matt and Hannah meet online as writing partners. Their relationship is safe, anonymous, and innocent…

Until Matt sees a picture of Hannah. Hannah’s picture sparks an attraction Matt is powerless to ignore. When circumstance brings Matt and Hannah together, the strangers begin a love story that’s passionate, poignant, unforgettable, and unstoppable.

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Coming 2015

After Dark

Night Owl Trilogy- Book 3

By M. Pierce

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In the final novel of the Night Owl Trilogy from bestselling author M. Pierce, can a passion that has withstood many ordeals become a love strong enough to last a lifetime?

At twenty-nine, Matt Sky is trying to return to normal, having faked his death and come back to life. He and Hannah move to a simple house in the suburbs, and strive to grow their relationship into something durable and honest. They become more and more entangled, in the best ways possible.

At twenty-eight, Hannah finally has the life she’s always wanted: she’s pursuing her career as a literary agent at Granite Wing Agency, she is writing her first solo novel, and she is living with her hot, passionate lover. For the first time, Matt and Hannah are able to explore intimacy without inhibitions—without lies, secrets, or jealousy—and the results are explosive.

Still life together is not as easy as it seems. Matt is estranged from his brothers in the wake of his cruel stunt; Seth Sky, embittered by his failed pursuit of Hannah, makes a play for Hannah’s sister; and the topic of Hannah’s novel—her relationship with Matt and the Sky family—is driving a wedge between her and Matt. The lovers are devoted to one another, having come through many ordeals, but is their bond strong enough to last a lifetime?

Kelley’s Review

Michel and I had the pleasure of reading the Night Owl and Last Light back to back. I think that plays a very large role in both of our reviews. Last Light is just as sexy as the Night Owl and Matthew and Hannah will continue to steam up eReaders everywhere. She is a dirty little slut just for him. The hard part of this story is dealing with and processing Matthew Sky’s character. It is really hard to find redemption in Matthew. I am a person that likes a solid hero that might be an asshole in the beginning but finds his way and acknowledges that he is difficult and makes an attempt to change. You don’t get that from Matthew. I guess I am holding out for After Dark to see if he truly changes who he is for himself, his family, and Hannah.

The brilliance of this story is that it feels like a story within a story within a story. What does that mean exactly? Let’s start with Night Owl. Night Owl is a story about a shut-in author named M. Pierce who writes bestselling novels. In reality we know nothing about M. Pierce. Is he a man or a woman? M. Pierce has not been to any book signings that I know of and as far as I can tell there are no pictures of M. Pierce online. Everyone that is a fan of this series communicates via Facebook or e-mail with Matthew Sky the main character in the Night Owl series. To take things one step further we learn in Last Light that M. Pierce authors the Night Owl and posts it in an online writers forum for people to read. Night Owl is essentially a diary of the private affairs of Matthew Sky and Hannah. I was quite upset at the fact that Matthew had betrayed Hannah by posting their private affairs online for everyone and anyone to read. It made me think of Night Owl again in a different light knowing that it was written while Matthew was living alone in the cabin after he supposedly died in a mountain climbing accident. This story takes a path in the beginning that makes you think that Matthew is going to do the unforgivable. He at least has some dignity after what he has done to Hannah not to drag her through the mud again. He is a very difficult man to love. Hannah almost makes her way out of his life only to get dragged back in. Do I think he is worthy of Hannah’s love? No I don’t. This book contains lots of lies, deception, manipulation, and enabling.

After reading this I found myself questioning who really is M. Pierce. Are people drawn to this series because of the mystery of who M. Pierce really is? Do people believe that this story is actually an auto-biography of the affairs of Matthew and Hannah? The genius of this read is that we are left with these questions that I am pretty sure will go unanswered.

Can Matthew and Hannah get a healthy happily ever after? I don’t know. After the rollercoaster ride of faking Matthew’s death and him coming back to life I think that it would be fair to say that Matthew and Hannah can handle most anything that is thrown at them because Hannah is a strong, capable, beautiful, and intelligent woman who can help them stop the rollercoaster. I really am looking forward to seeing Matthews redemption in After Dark.

Michel’s Review

ARC copy provided by publisher, via NetGalley, for a fair and honest review.

We all have books on our ereader that we have purchased and fully intend on reading. Somehow these books get put on the to be read list and put on the back burner. That was the case with Night Owl by M. Pierce. I fully intended on reading this book at some point. I saw all the raving reviews, followed the many different groups dedicated to this book and author on Facebook. I knew this book had to be special because of the huge reaction. Still I held off reading it because I knew there was a cliffhanger. I wanted to wait until the next book came out before committing myself to another series that would leave me dying for the next book. When I was offered an ARC copy of Last Light, I jumped at the opportunity. It prompted me to read Night Owl asap. Therefore I am going into this review with a completely neutral and unbiased opinion. I have not had a year to theorize about what would happen next or try to predict the outcome of this couple’s story.

Matt and Hannah have an obsessive and very sexual relationship. This relationship but most standards should not work. Somehow they have managed to make it work for them in light of their surroundings and dealings in the real world. When Matt’s author pseudonym is exposed to the world it sends their relationship into a tailspin. Matt can’t handle the exposure.

Matt fakes his death and lives as a recluse in a cabin in the mountains. Hannah is fully aware of his deception and is in fact helping him hide from the world. Hannah cannot give up her life in the real world to live with Matt. Their affair takes a new turn with stolen weekends and secret phone calls. Hannah is under scrutiny because of the release of Night Owl. An explicit diary written by Matt about their affair has been published and causing a huge sensation. No one knows who published the book. This causes more sensation and problems for Hannah. Not only is she supposedly grieving Matt’s death, she is fending off accusations about Night Owl, and having to deal with her most private moments being exposed to the world. Hannah is dealing with so many deceptions in the real world plus trying to placate a very needy, self absorbed Matt. The pressure is about to blow them apart.

To top this off, Matt is deceiving Hannah as well. He has his own agenda.

Matt’s family plays a huge role in how Hannah deals with the real world. Not all of it is positive. We learn things about Matt that did not come to light in Night Owl.

When the truth finally comes out it about tears Matt and Hannah apart. Somehow they manage to piece their relationship together. It ends with the readers wondering where this couple can go. Their relationship is not a healthy one. The only way their relationship can survive is if they get the kind of help they need.

My thoughts on this series and book are that the overall story is unique. The characters are not your typical hero and heroine. Matt is more than an alcoholic. My impression is that he is extremely bi polar. Everything about Matt and Hannah’s relationship is about his needs and his needs alone. He is self absorbed. Hannah has problems as well, she is an enabler and a bit obsessive about Matt.

I am hoping that the final book, After Dark, will get Matt the help he needs to be a healthy and better functioning person. I hope he’s medicated. I am also hoping that Hannah gets some help as well. She needs to learn her self worth is much higher than Matt’s obsessive love. I am hoping that they will find their happiness together in a healthy way.

Author Bio:

About the Author

M. Pierce is the bestselling author of Night Owl, book one in the erotic Night Owl Trilogy. The author lives in Colorado and owns a rabbit named Laurence.
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Release Day Blitz + Giveaway: Stars In Their Eyes by Lauren Blakely- Wrapped Up In Love Series- Book 2

Posted on 10/09/2014 by shellbellereads

We are pleased as punch to bring you the Release Day Launch for STARS IN THEIR EYES by Lauren Blakely! STARS IN THEIR EYES is the first full-length novel from her New Adult Romance Series, Wrapped Up in Love, a spinnoff series from her New York Times and USA Today Bestelling Caught Up in Love Series!!! The prequel novella, A STARSTRUCK KISS, is included in STARS IN THEIR EYES so that readers can enjoy the experience of reading through the full-length standalone novel in its entirety! And for those in the know, there is no cliffhanger in this title. However, A STARSTRUCK KISS will remain free, but as a short prequel to introduce readers to these new characters starting on release day!

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Excerpt:

“You played me,” he said, but he didn’t sound mad. He sounded impressed.

“It worked,” I said, pride suffusing my tone. “But the scrapes are real.”

“Yeah, I feel terrible. Shall I go hunt down a Band-Aid for you now? Oh wait. You carry them with you. You’re always prepared.”

“You never know when you might have to take a fall to be first,” I said, and rooted around in the front pocket of my backpack for a Band-Aid. I found one, peeled off the wrapping and started to press it onto my palm.

“Let me help,” he said in a soft voice, laying the ends of the Band-Aid onto my skin. He stepped closer, his body now officially in the zone of supreme nearness–the zone that would allow for hands to explore chests, and arms to be wrapped around necks, and lips to lock again. I held my breath. My hands tingled under his touch. “This is the part in the script where the reformed bad boy touches the heroine for the second time,” he whispered.

I wanted to close my eyes and linger in the moment. But I had to be stoic. I couldn’t say what I wanted to say. That this was the moment when the heroine’s skin raced from the barest touch. So I lied. “This is the part where the heroine doesn’t even notice.”

He raised an eyebrow. He held my gaze. I didn’t look away in enough time. My breath caught, and my lips were parted. “Hi,” he whispered in a voice that was getting under my skin.

“Hi,” I said against my better judgment, against my brain.

“Are we still on for the movie tomorrow?”

“You’re just asking me out because I’m the competition, right? Keep your friends close and your enemies closer?”

“I’m asking because I want to go out with you. Not because you’re the enemy.”

I scoffed. “At least you admitted I’m the enemy. That’s why you’re asking me.”

He raised his hand, reaching gently for a strand of my hair. My feet felt wobbly with him so near to me. The earth was suddenly operating at a bizarre angle. I pressed my palm against the brick wall behind me to steady myself as he ran a finger along my hair. So softly. “I swear,” he whispered, pinning me with his gaze. “I truly want to see the movie with you. Say you’re still going with me.”

About STARS IN THEIR EYES:

WARNING: The hero in this book is not an asshole. He is hot, charming, smart, funny, ripped, gorgeous, respectful and completely panty-melting. Please proceed.

A sexy and swoony new adult romance…

Celebrity photographer and college senior Jess Leighton desperately needs to crash the wedding of the year. Snapping just one pic of the A-list Hollywood couple tying the knot will pay her way through grad school. But with security tighter than the bride-to-be’s corset, she’ll need more than her camera and smarts, she’ll need help from her biggest rival–hot, British, motorcycle-riding William Harrigan, whose sexy accent can melt the panties off any woman. He’s the last person Jess should trust, but he’s her only ticket in.

William Harrigan wants one thing – to stay in L.A. past college graduation. With a student visa set to expire, the clock is ticking. When he lands a gig that pairs him with the beautiful blond spitfire Jess, he’s scored his best shot at living out the American dream. Winning her trust would be a whole lot easier, however, if he didn’t have ulterior motives…

But there’s no faking the intense attraction between them. Try as they might to resist each other, soon sparks are flying, as they devise a plan to sneak into the ceremony. But when Jess’ new celebrity client raises the stakes, she starts to smell blackmail, and soon she and Will are chasing down cheating directors, staking out clandestine trysts, and making fake IDs, all while sneaking scene-stealing kisses and hot nights together.

The audience loves a happy ending, but in a town where everyone’s acting and no one’s playing by the rules, can Jess and William find their own ever after in time?

**Stars in Their Eyes is the start of the sexy, swoony and scandalous new adult series Wrapped Up in Love, which is a spin-off of the NYT and USA Today Bestselling Caught Up in Love series. You don’t need to have read Caught Up in Love to follow this new series, but you’ll likely enjoy those books!**

And don’t miss the FREE Prequel Novella, A STARSTRUCK KISS!

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About Lauren Blakely:

Lauren Blakely writes sexy contemporary romance novels with heat, heart, and humor, and her books have appeared on the New York Times, USA Today, Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and iBooks bestseller lists. Like the heroine in FAR TOO TEMPTING, she thinks life should be filled with family, laughter, and the kind of love that love songs promise. Lauren lives in California with her husband, children, and dogs. Her novels include Caught Up In Us, Pretending He’s Mine, Playing With Her Heart, and Trophy Husband. She also writes for young adults under the name Daisy Whitney.

Website** Facebook** Twitter** Goodreads ** STARS IN THEIR EYES Goodreads

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Release Day Review: Ruining Mr. Perfect by Marie Harte- The McCauley Brothers- Book 3

Posted on 10/07/2014 by shellbellereads

Ruining Mr. Perfect

The McCauley Brothers Series – Book 3

By Marie Harte

Synopsis

IT’S NOT EASY BEING RIGHT

Vanessa Campbell is a CPA by day and a perfectionist by night. She’s fit, successful…and decidedly lonely. She can’t stop thinking about the youngest McCauley brother, Cameron. He’s just like her: smart, attractive, and usually right—except when dealing with her.

…BUT SOMEONE’S GOT TO DO IT

Cameron McCauley likes Vanessa a little too much. She’s a blond goddess with a razor-sharp tongue. She hates to be wrong, just like him. But she can hold a grudge and is stubborn to a fault—also like him.

A past disagreement has them rubbing each other the wrong way. Cam is dying to shake Vanessa up—get her to let loose. But if he succeeds, can his heart handle it?

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Excerpt

“Colin,” Cam tried again. “You know dumping water on someone in the shower is a no-no. And especially Ubie’s new girlfriend.” Ubie—short for Uncle Brody. Brody Singer, the blond “adopted” McCauley who had grown up as part of the family

“But he told me to do it.”

Cam blinked. “He did? Well, you should never—”

“Dad thought it was kind of funny after he yelled at me.” Colin gave him a sharp nod, then added with a smirk, “Dad said he used to do that to you, and that you cried like a girrrl.” Considering Colin’s anti-girl phase, that was a high insult.

“Is that right?” Cam frowned, remembering being the butt of too many jokes while growing up. “Mike has no idea what he’s dealing with. You think your dad’s tough? Watch Uncle Cam.” Knowing he shouldn’t encourage the mischief in his nephew’s eyes but unable to stop himself from the unspoken dare, Cam hurried to the kitchen, found a large glass and filled it with ice-cold water. Considering the freezing January wind outside, Mike would be basking in a hot shower to warm up. Cam grinned, looking forward to his brother’s howl of misery.

Colin trailed him like a puppy. “Oh wow, Uncle Cam. Are you going to get Dad?” He clapped.

“Shh.”

“Oh, sorry.” Colin’s big grin showed a missing front tooth.

Cam walked down more ugly brown carpet that looked as it if had been vacuumed to death—Mike and his obsession with cleanliness—and tiptoed into the big guy’s room. He made sure he had a clear exit. If his goliath big brother caught him, he’d be toast. Fortunately, he could move like a gazelle.

Gliding into the master bathroom, he readied himself. One, two…three. He yanked open the curtain and tossed the cold water at…Vanessa Campbell?

He stared in shock at the sexiest woman he’d seen in a long, long time. Naked, her creamy skin glistened with water as she gaped at him in horror. Which quickly turned to anger.

“Cameron McCauley!”

“Oh, wow.” He couldn’t look away

Michel’s Review

The McCauly’s are back. In the third book of the McCauly Brothers Series, Ruining Mr. Perfect we get Cameron’s story. Cameron McCauly is the youngest of the McCauly clan and quite different from his older brothers. Being a successful investment advisor has led him to develop a taste for the finer things in life. He is not as rough and rugged as his brothers. He is more of a perfectionist. He has taken quite a bit of ribbing from his siblings because of his more refined nature. It has also created some tension with his father. This tension between them is hard to deal with in a close knit family like the McCaulys.

Vanessa Campbell is a hardcore, driven CPA with an attitude that can make grown men weep. She has issues that go beyond her need for order, control, and cleanliness. She’s beautiful and smart but comes across as being a downright bitch.

Vanessa and Cam have butted heads throughout this series. They are very similar in a lot of ways but also very different in others. They are antagonistic to one another and don’t see eye to eye. Both have the need to be right all the time. The one thing they have in common is their attraction to one another.

When these two get together and finally let go, it is smoking hot. Cam has the ability to get Vanessa to let go and loosen up. His playful but witty antics have a way of breaking through her ice princess persona. Between Cam’s dirty talking and her need for control in the bedroom, the sheets sizzle.

These two can be perfect together but first both will have to learn to compromise.

Meanwhile, outside of the steamy head butting relationship between Cam and Vanessa, there is another plot going on in the McCauly family. The parents are having some serious problems in their marriage. The build up of these tensions just adds to the ongoing saga of the McCauly family.

I absolutely loved this book. I had hesitations about Vanessa’s character because of the ice princess attitude. She is one of those characters that you love to hate. Marie Harte did a brilliant job with her character. Vanessa is who she is, but Marie showed us a softer and vulnerable side that most people don’t see on the outside. Cameron stole my heart. He may be quite different from his brothers, but he has the right amount of McCauly traits and the right amount of unique traits that will endear him to the readers.

The McCauly family and their contributions to this novel made the book even more endearing. This family has captured the reader’s hearts. I am looking forward to the next book in the McCauly Brothers series. What To Do With A Bad Boy is going to be explosive.

I am a huge fan of Marie Harte and the McCauly Brothers series. Ruining Mr. Perfect was fantastic and I highly recommend this book and series.

The McCauley Brothers Series

The Trouble Maker Next Door

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How To Handle A Heartbreaker

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Author Bio:

Caffeine addict, boy referee, and romance aficionado, NY Times and USA Today bestselling author Marie Harte has over 100 books published with more constantly on the way. She’s a confessed bibliophile and devotee of action movies. Whether hiking in Central Oregon, biking around town, or hanging at the local tea shop, she’s constantly plotting to give everyone a happily ever after.

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Release Blitz and Review + Giveaway: Unclaimed by Laurie Wetzel

Posted on 09/29/2014 by shellbellereads

By Laurie Wetzel

Synopsis

Abandoned by her birth parents and ignored by her adoptive family, Maddy Page believes she is unlovable. She only allows herself to dream of falling in love. That changes when she meets MJ; handsome and kind, MJ penetrates Maddy’s defenses. Maddy soon finds herself confiding in MJ like she has with no one else, revealing secrets even her closest friends don’t know. He makes her feel safe–a feeling she’s never experienced except in her dreams.

When Maddy witnesses MJ disappear and reappear in thin air, she realizes she might have been wrong about him. He could be dangerous–maybe even a killer. Determined to uncover the truth of who–or what–MJ is, Maddy ignores her instinct to run. But she soon realizes that getting close to MJ could cost more than a broken heart–it could cost Maddy her soul.

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Excerpt

My entire body pulses in the wake of his touch. His words “if you were mine” keep circling around in my head, and with each rotation, something inside me grows. He makes me feel happy and less broken. I feel I could take on the world as long as he’s beside me. Whatever he is, I don’t care. I’ve never felt anything like this, and I’ll go to Hell and back to keep it. Regardless of what happens to me, I have to protect him. I have to keep him safe, always.

He grins and squeezes my hand again. My body responds with such intensity, I almost feel as if I were floating. I don’t want it to ever stop. I want to stay strong. I want to be brave. I want to feel safe. He gives me all of that. I want to hold him forever, even if it’s only his hand.
“Tomorrow,” he says, pulling me from my thoughts. “I’ll find a way to see you.”
“Promise?”

Tracey’s Review

Since the day that she found out that she was adopted, Maddy Page refuses to feel. Anything. Thoughts that she is somehow second-best, like she is less important to her family and friends, plague her, keeping her from accepting any affection, afraid that it will unexpectedly be taken away from her. But Maddy is special. Since her childhood, she has been gifted, able to do things more easily and better than other people. And, for as long as she can remember, she has been able to see Dream Girl and the Dark Prince, Damian, when she sleeps at night.

Maddy is unaware of just how many things set her apart from others. But there are those that recognize how special she is, and are eager to get their hands on her. Because Maddy is unclaimed, somehow marked by neither Heaven nor Hell, making her fair game for whichever side can bind her to them. And neither side will stop until she belongs to them.

UNCLAIMED is the first book in the UNCLAIMED series by Laurie Wetzel. As a new book in the YA paranormal genre, it is a fine addition, with a plot that is original, and that has characters that are interesting and multi-dimensional. There were times when I was reading it, though, that I found myself distracted and a bit confused by the way that the story jumped around. As I read, it seemed as though there should have been a bit more backstory towards the beginning of the book. Instead, it was rolled out bit by bit as the book progressed, and this made it a little more difficult for me to follow. Overall, I did enjoy UNCLAIMED, and I would definitely like to read future books in the series to find out how things are wrapped up.
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Author bio

Laurie Wetzel has always had a passion for writing, but it wasn’t until a New Years Resolution in 2011 that she finally shared her lifelong dream of being an author with her husband. He read the very first draft of Unclaimed and gave her the words she needed to hear, “This is what you need to be doing.” Three years later the first book in the Unclaimed series was published with the second book expected to be out in 2015. Laurie lives in Mankato, MN, with her husband and two young sons. When she’s not writing, working, or spending time with her family, she’s either reading, running, or catching up on her favorite shows on Netflix. For updates on the Unclaimed series as well as other works in progress, feel free to check her out online!

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GIVEAWAY!!

There is a huge giveaway happening with the blog tour for signed paperback of Unclaimed, Pens,Bookmarks, Posters!

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Release Day Blitz + Review + Giveaway: Indiscretion Vol. 4 by Elisabeth Grace

Posted on 09/15/2014 by shellbellereads

Indiscretion Volume 4

Indiscretion Serial

By Elisabeth Grace

The image was seared into my mind. Imprinted. Emblazoned. Etched.

Did I blame him for what I saw? Or myself, for allowing him the ability to cause the pain coursing through me?

Betrayal was a weapon that cut to the core—the ‘what ifs’ the infection that festered in the wound.

I’d thought we’d had roadblocks thrown in front of us before. Damn. Those would have seemed like mere speed bumps if I’d seen what was coming…

Little did I know that what was headed our way would prove to be the biggest test of all—putting impossible choices in front of us. None of which seemed to lead to a happy ending in which the two of us were together.

Michel’s Review

Wow! After the first three volumes in the Indiscretion series by Elisabeth Grace being 5 Star reviews , I was anxiously awaiting for the final volume. I was expecting drama, suspense, more erotic moments between Max and Chloe, and finally their happily ever after. While Elisabeth delivered all of these elements, she took this series down an unexpected lane. She absolutely blew me away.

Indiscretion Volume 4 was one of the most emotional books I have read. The love between Chloe and Max was pure and exhilarating. Their devotion to one another through unforeseen circumstances that would break most couples was astonishing. Their journey to happily ever after was a heart wrenching road with many obstacles to overcome. The unexpected roadblocks broke my heart. At times they both found themselves lost and alone on a dark scary path that seemed to have no ending. But somehow these two managed to find that fork in the road that led them back to one another. In the end, Max and Chloe found their way back to each other and chose to journey through life together.

I really can’t say more about this final installment in this series. It is a powerful ending for this beautiful couple. Elisabeth Grace’s writing was superbly executed and made me an emotional wreck. I cried like a baby, laughed like a hyena, cussed like a sailor, and swooned like a damsel in distress. I was very moved.

I highly recommend the Indiscretion series by Elisabeth Grace. It is unpredictable and highly emotional. It has all the wonderful qualities that readers look for in good books. The writing is superb, the characters are enthralling, and the plot took me by surprise.

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All four volumes will be available together in one paperback shortly after the release of the fourth volume.

Giveaway

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Connect With Elisabeth Grace

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!

Blog Tour + Review + Giveaway : Dare To Submit by Carly Phillips

Posted on 09/12/2014 by shellbellereads

Dare To Submit

By Carly Phillips

Synopsis

“Carly Phillips is synonymous with red-hot romance and passionate love.” Lauren Blakely, NY Times Bestselling Author

“Steamy, sexy and emotionally charged. Carly’s most erotic book to date.” J. Kenner, NY Times Bestselling Author

Decklan Dare knows about the unexpected loss of loved ones and for this reason, he values control in all areas of his life. Amanda Collins enjoys the freedom she finds in casual encounters without the emotional connection a relationship brings. They meet and their physical attraction is mutual but both experience feelings that could run deeper – if they drop their guard and let each other in. Decklan is first to trust, but when he discovers the secret Amanda’s been hiding, will he forgive? Or will he rebuild every wall before she has a chance to explain? (love story, contemporary romance, alpha heroes, beach reads, cop hero, bad boys, billionaire)

DARE TO LOVE series
Book 1: Dare to Love (Ian & Riley)
Book 2: Dare to Desire (Alex & Madison)
Book 3: Dare to Surrender (Gabe & Isabelle)
Book 4: Dare to Submit (Decklan & Amanda)
* Each book does stand alone for your reading enjoyment.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Excerpt

He put his phone back in his pocket just as Max arrived, settling into his usual seat. “I have to say, for a man who insists he’s not going to renew his membership, you’re here all the time lately.”

Max knew exactly why Decklan was here, so there was no point in answering.

“If she does show, at least tell me you’ve got a plan?” Max said, pushing as usual.

“I have no fucking clue.”

“Well I hope you get one.” Max slapped him on the back. “I see Emmy giving me the eye. I’m going to go remind her who’s the Dom,” he said. “You ought to find a sub and do the same.”

“Have fun,” Decklan said, ignoring the suggestion. He wasn’t in the mood. Hadn’t been for a long time, but especially since that night. Since Amanda.

He glanced around the room, familiar with all the spaces and places in the club. The St Andrews cross on the wall was occupied, a dark haired female getting pleasure from absorbing pain. His gaze slid onward. A group of men sitting and talking, their subs at their feet. A quick look confirmed she wasn’t one of them. His emotions were already frayed tonight and if he found her with someone else, he couldn’t promise himself he’d keep a handle on his temper.

He ordered a Glen Livet on the rocks and tried to put his night with her in perspective. Chemistry. They’d had that in spades. But there was something more to her. A strength combined with a vulnerability he didn’t see often. They’d clicked in bed and out. He’d had fun with her, a word he never associated with sex. And most importantly, the thing that unnerved him the most, she tempted him to want her touch. To free her from the restraints so he could feel her soft hands on his cock, her nails at his back, and her arms wrapped securely around him.

Shit. He shouldn’t be here. Didn’t need that kind of intensity and seriousness in his life.

She wasn’t here again, something he took as a sign. Definitely time to go.

He stood, pushed back his chair, turned and saw Amanda paused at the threshold to the main room. His breath left on a whoosh of air, the unexpected sight of her when he’d all but given up, a shock to his system.

Over the last few weeks, he wondered if he’d over exaggerated the memory of her affect on him. No such luck.

Her head bowed, hands clasped together, she was clearly working up the nerve to enter. And every muscle in his body tightened at the sight.

She finally lifted her gaze and glanced around the room, her stare lingering on various places and people, just as he’d done earlier. And then she looked towards the bar. The sounds around him, the people, the lights, everything dimmed. There was only her.

Whatever it was, it was still there.

He’d waited for this moment and now that it was here? Decklan had never backed away from a challenge. He wasn’t about to do so now.

Breathe, breathe, breathe, Amanda told herself. But the very sight of Decklan was both a relief and sent her into panic mode at the same time. His dark eyes slid over her and for a brief second, she feared he was going to dismiss her. She’d unravel if he did.

Then he rose and slowly walked across the room. All the air left her lungs. She hadn’t imagined one thing about him or the intense physical attraction he inspired. Today he wore the same type of outfit, black denim and a black tee-shirt that hugged his masculine, well defined body. She had no doubt he worked out and she still wanted to feel those hard muscles beneath her hands. If he’d let her.

He strode up, so close she was enveloped in his delicious scent, and all her strategic female parts went on red alert. Her nipples suddenly ached for hands, his mouth, his teeth.

“Tell me you came here for me,” he said, not beating around the bush. At all.

Tracey’s Review

Decklan Dare likes control. He wants and needs to be the one holding it. Amanda Collins desires the freedom that comes with letting someone else be in control, the escape that comes with submission. When the two of them come together, boundaries will be tested and redrawn.

Carly Phillips, thank you, thank you, thank you. I have read and loved every single one of the DARE series, and have found each and every one of the Dare men hot and sexy. But Decklan, oh, my goodness, Decklan. Maybe it’s that he’s a man in uniform. Or that he knows what he wants when it comes to women and is DEFINITELY not shy about letting them know. Or that he loves his family completely and would do anything for them. Okay, it’s everything about this guy. He is the total package, except, well, he’s definitely not looking for the ‘C’ word. You know, commitment. He knows all too well that the ones you love can be ripped from you with no warning. He’s been through it, and is determined to guard his heart to prevent feeling that loss ever again. But, the heart wants what the heart wants, and his wants Amanda.

I love the relationship between Decklan and Amanda. Despite being adamant that he doesn’t ‘do’ relationships, he is hyper-protective from their first encounter. He sees how her self-esteem has been damaged by those closest to her, and will do anything to assure her that she is precious. And Amanda truly understands Decklan, and sees how he has come to the place that he’s in emotionally. They are like the perfect yin yang, the perfect fit for each other.

DARE TO SUBMIT is five hot and sexy stars for me, and I cannot wait for DARE TO TOUCH, Olivia’s book.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author Carly Phillips N.Y. Times and USA Today Bestselling Author Carly Phillips has written over 40 sexy contemporary romance novels that today’s readers identify with and enjoy. After a successful 15 year career with various New York publishing houses, Carly is making the leap to Indie author, with the goal of giving her readers more books at a faster pace at a better price. Her Serendipity books will still finish up in January/February 2014 via Berkley as planned. Carly lives in Purchase, NY with her family, two nearly adult daughters and two crazy dogs who star on her Facebook Fan Page and website. She’s a writer, a knitter of sorts, a wife, and a mom. In addition, she’s a Twitter and Internet junkie and is always around to interact with her readers.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads ~ Amazon Author Page

Giveaway

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Release Blitz + Review + Giveaway: Taking Control by Jen Frederick- Kerr Chronicles- Book 2

Posted on 09/12/2014 by shellbellereads

Taking Control

Kerr Chronicles – Book 2

By Jen Frederick

Synopsis

I thought I needed only one thing in my life—the money and power to crush one man. But the moment I laid eyes on Victoria Corielli, my thirst for revenge was replaced by my craving for her.

No rule would keep me away; no obstacle too large to overcome. Not her will, not our differing social positions, not my infamous past. When she lost everything, I helped her pick up the pieces. When she trusted me with everything, she sealed her fate.

I’ve convinced Victoria she can put her heart in my hands. Now I have to protect it–from her shady stepfather and my business rivals, from enemies known and hidden. I’ll do anything to keep her. And I might have to prove it, because now Victoria”s risking more than her heart to be with me; she’s risking her life.

Taking Control is a continuation of the story begun in Losing Control (not a retelling) but can be read alone. It is 92,000 words narrated by Ian Kerr.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

Excerpt: Meet Ian Kerr

“What are we making?”

“Pasta and shrimp cooked in lemon and white wine sauce. Why don’t you go over and get some bread? Maybe sourdough rolls, and I’ll meet you at the seafood place.” She points down a ways.

I kiss her again and leave to do her bidding. Inside the bakery, I find dozens of different loaves of bread and rolls. On the advice of a helpful clerk, I buy something called a Tuscan log sourdough, which is shaped like a log roll with short, stubby branches. I figure what we don’t eat, we can use to feed the ducks this weekend in Connecticut. Although I don’t know that we have ducks up there. I might have to buy some.

When I catch up with her at the seafood counter, there’s a man—make that an asshole—chatting her up. He has an arm braced against the glass case, and his eyes are taking off her clothes piece by piece

“Hey, Ian,” she says when I approach.

“Hi, bunny.” I put my hand on her neck and kiss her on the forehead. I need to get a ring on this woman right away. “Are you having problems deciding which fish to buy?”

He smirks. “Just making conversation.”

I run my tongue over my teeth wondering how mad Tiny would be if I punched this guy out. Pretty mad, I guess, so I lean down and kiss her again—only this time on the lips. Hard.

She rolls her eyes. “I’m waiting for our shrimp.”

The guy still doesn’t leave. He hovers, like a stupid dumb cow, on my right as if Tiny is just going to peel away from me and give him her number.

“Check out is over there,” I gesture toward the registers.

“I’m not ready,” he says, confused.

“Oh you are.” I stare at him steadily, and he’s not as dumb as I thought because he finally walks away.

“A pound of prawns.” A tatted, bald-headed man offers Tiny a white parchment-wrapped package. “Where’s the guy who wanted the scallops?” He looks around.

“We’ll take those too,” Tiny says hastily.

We pay, and she waits until we’re in the hallway before questioning me.

“You looked like you were going to punch that guy out.”

“Nah,” I lie.

“Then why is the bread loaf crushed in your hand?”

I look down and the Tuscan log is indeed bent in half as if a sharp wind has sheared off part of the limb. “Looked like it was too soft. Just testing out the wheat-to-oat ratio.”

“Seriously? That is what you are going with?” She laughs. “You know you sound like a caveman.”

“That’s advanced evolution. I thought for sure I wasn’t much past the Neanderthal stage.”

“Ape,” she teases.

“Knuckle dragging when it comes to you, bunny.” I wrap an arm around her waist and usher her into the bakery to buy a loaf of bread.

Losing Control

Kerr Chronicles- Book 1

Synopsis

I’d do anything to keep my mother alive.

Anything, including ask Ian Kerr for help. I don’t know much about him, except that he has more money than some small countries. And he’s willing to spend it on me. Just one catch: there’s a string attached attached, and not just the one I feel pulling me into his arms and his bed. There’s also the plan for revenge he wants my help with.

Every time he says my name, it makes my body shiver and my heart stutter. I know he’s going to wreck me, know there won’t be anything left of me but lust and sensation by the time he’s done with me, but even though I can see the heartbreak coming towards me like a train, ready to crash into me, I can’t get out of the way. I want what he makes me feel. Want what he’s offering.

This may have started out as something to save my mother, but now…now it’s about what he makes me feel. I’m in danger of losing everything that’s important. Worse? Ian’s whispered words and hot caresses are making me believe that’s okay.

Excerpt: Losing Control

“Let me be perfectly frank with you, Victoria. There are lots of things that I’d like you to do for me. Some of them involve you on your knees. Others require you bent over a table. All of them require me to be between your legs. But I don’t pay for that.”

“No, I wouldn’t think you would,” I say faintly. No one has ever spoken to me in such a graphic and frank manner and I don’t know how to respond—at least not verbally. My body is reacting by getting hot and tight.

He nods then in confirmation that I’ve heard him. “I don’t dip my pen in the company ink. Nothing good comes of that. So let me ask you again. Are you certain you wouldn’t rather let me take you out to dinner and then home, where I would make you come so hard that you wouldn’t be able to remember your own name let alone that you have money troubles?”

I’m finding it difficult to breathe normally and it’s hard to remember exactly why I’m resisting him so hard. His hand has moved from my waist to my hip and his fingers are curling around my ass and pulling me close as possible despite the bike frame between us. I can even feel his erection against my hip. “The money troubles will still be there, regardless of my memory,” I manage to choke out.

His eyes narrow because he doesn’t like my rejections. “You should know that when small prey runs away, it only whets the appetite of a predator. Someday, Victoria Corielli, I’m going to get you to say yes.”

He pushes the bike frame upright and my body reluctantly follows.

“I’ll be in touch,” he says and then turns and walks away. I stare after him like a dumbass for at least five minutes.”

Michel’s Review of The Kerr Chronicles

Losing Control by Jen Frederick is the first book in the Kerr Chronicles.

In the past few years there have been tons of billionaire romances published. Most have had the same theme, the tortured billionaire meeting an ordinary girl that makes him feel richer than his billions ever did. Losing Control is no different in that aspect but it did have a very fresh voice and unique characters. The story stepped outside the romance and added dimensions that most readers can relate to.

We meet Victoria Corielli, also known as Tiny. She is a bike courier making a very paltry income. She is trying to take care of her sick mother, keep a roof over their heads, and attempt to pay off the escalating medical bills. Her mother’s cancer has returned and it is much more aggressive. Tiny is trying to earn extra money anyway that she can. She has had to resort to delivering packages for her shady stepbrother on the side. Because of her dyslexia limiting her job opportunities, her stepbrother takes full advantage of her circumstances.

Through her questionable deliveries , she meets Ian Kerr. Ian Kerr is a sexy, suave business man that has an agenda outside of the boardroom. The package that Tiny is delivering will change her life.

Ian needs Tiny to assist him on his vendetta against the man that ruined his life. As he gets to know Tiny, his agenda becomes less important. He is falling in love with her and wants something he has never had.

Ian steps up and takes care of Tiny’s mother and makes their life easier. He makes their last days together memorable.

As the story unfolds and Ian’s vendetta comes to light, the readers will sympathize with him. His family was destroyed by one man. That one man is what made Ian the powerful man he is today. But is that one man worth giving up a chance for a lifetime of love?

We will see when Taking Control unfolds the rest of the story.

Taking Control picks up where Losing Control has left off. Ian and Tiny are in a serious relationship and their lives are moving in new directions.

Ian has taken inventory of his life and realizes that he wants something more meaningful than money and revenge. He wants to settle down with Tiny and have a family of his own. But he has already set the wheels in motion for his vendetta. He is willing to alter the plan and move on with his life.

Others are not happy with Ian’s decisions. New players come in the arena. The mystery, intrigue, and suspense builds throughout the book. It seems everyone has an agenda except for Tiny. But she does have one, one that will help Ian with his original plan.

As these two move forward in their relationship they will have to fight for their love. Someone is trying to take Ian down. Together Tiny and Ian have the ultimate revenge and get their happily ever after.

This book was sizzling hot. Ian and Tiny burn up the sheets. They are a sexy couple that readers will love.

I enjoyed the Kerr Chronicles and recommend this series to the readers.

Author Bio:

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

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Giveaway

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Release Day Blitz : Chasing The Sun by Nikki Mathis Thompson

Posted on 09/09/2014 by shellbellereads

Chasing the Sun

By Nikki Mathis Thompson

Synopsis:

When Ian Radcliffe gets the opportunity to leave town to consult on the project of his career he’s

think twice. He loads his dog and guitar into the back of the Jeep and flips Dallas the bird as it becomes a speck in his rearview.

A change of scenery, that’s just what he needs. His heart isn’t broken anymore, just sore. He thought he’d found the one in Katrine MacNamara, but unfortunately she thought he was number two.

He wasn’t a rich businessman, or a rockstar…he was just an architect. He believed in love, family, and friendship. Some might call him the ‘nice guy’. He always thought so— do the right thing, protect the bullied, return your mom’s calls.

When two dynamic women enter his life in this new city the lines of friendship, sex, and love are blurred, his world of black and white becomes a little more gray.

Will the heartbroken become the heartbreaker?

Readers fell in love with Ian in Rebound and Resilient. This is his story and his chance at a love of his own. It won’t come easy, like he always thought it would. But nothing good comes easy…at least nothing worthwhile.

Hold onto your hammocks girls, your favorite nice guy is taking center stage. It’s Ian’s turn to get the girl…or two.

Chasing the Sun is a 40,000 word novella, and although this is a spinoff of the Rebound series, it can be read as a stand alone.

Buy: Amazon

Tracey’s Review

Having just lost the girl he loves, and feeling like nice guys finish last, Ian Radcliffe wants to get the heck out of Dodge, or, well, Dallas. With his guitar and his dog, Ruby, in tow, Ian heads for Austin for a 3-month work project, with hopes that a change of scenery will heal his broken heart. Once settled in his new life, Ian finds plenty to fill his time, and two different women to help him with his heart.

Likeable characters, an engaging storyline, and a friends-to-lovers romance are generally a recipe for a good book, and CHASING THE SUN is no exception. Although there are two prior books and a novella in this series, I didn’t feel like I was missing out on backstory at all. Nikki Mathis Thompson has written a book that is both easy to read and completely entertaining. I must admit though, that Ian made me want to kick him in the head a few times. I got that he had been burned, and so wasn’t really looking to commit, but, for a 36-year-old man, he just came off as extremely cavalier and sometimes immature. By the end of the book, though, he had redeemed himself and won me over. I absolutely LOVE Trey. She’s the chick that I would want to hang out with, and she can more than hold her own with Ian. The world definitely needs more Treys. Rory, Maddie, and the rest of the supporting characters bring a lot of fun and uniqueness to CHASING THE SUN, and made this a book that I did not want to put down. It also made me want to go back and read the rest of the REBOUND series, and I am looking forward to the final installment of the series, due out at the end of 2014.

Nikki Thompson Bio:

Nikki Mathis Thompson spent her formative years singing, dancing and creating her own world of make-believe. From an early age she developed a love of reading that has grown exponentially to near addiction. She has a business degree from the University of Texas at Dallas. Her degree looks great in the frame, but hasn’t been utilized in years. She gladly left the cubicle life behind to raise her daughter and a son was added to the mix some years later. You can ﬁnd her devouring a book while drinking a glass of wine, doing her part to save the planet or lip- synching to her favorite songs while running through her suburb. She lives outside of Dallas with her family. Rebound is her ﬁrst novel.

Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Author Goodreads

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Reasonable Doubt Series by Whitney G. – Reasonable Doubt Series vs. Smut Book Junkie Reviews

Posted on 09/04/2014 by shellbellereads

Reasonable Doubt Series

By Whitney G.

Reasonable Doubt Series vs. Smut Book Junkie Reviews

Case: Reasonable Doubt Series by Whitney G. vs. Smut Book Junkie Reviews

CASE FILE

(Case File: The court file containing papers submitted in a case.)

Reasonable Doubt Volume 1-Volume 3

Smut Book Junkie Review of Volume 1 –Volume 3

Deposition from Michel Reinhard

Deposition from Kelley Hawthorne Jefferson

Deposition from Whitney Garcia Williams

Deposition from Andrew Hamilton

Deposition from Aubrey Everhart

ACTION

Action: Also called a case or lawsuit. A civil judicial proceeding where one party sues another for a wrong done, or to protect a right or to prevent a wrong.

Smut Book Junkie Reviews vs. Reasonable Doubt Series by Whitney G.

Smut Book Junkie Reviews is alleging that the Reasonable Doubt Series by Whitney G. caused addiction, emotional fluctuation, and sensual stimulation. They are trying to prove beyond Reasonable Doubt that this series has earned a 5 Star rating and delivered an emotional literary experience. The Reasonable Doubt Series has led readers to experience reading addiction, release date trauma and anxiety, and undying love for a self-serving prick, Andrew Hamilton. The emotional trauma this man put Aubrey Everhart through had readers thoroughly appalled. The readers had high hopes that Aubrey would prove beyond a shadow of a doubt that Andrew Hamilton needed to be punished for the crimes of the heart and that justice would be served.

Plaintiff: Smut Book Junkie Reviews

Defendant: Reasonable Doubt Series by Whitney G.

Witnesses:

Expert Witness– Reviewer Michel Reinhard- Smut Book Junkie Reviewer

Expert Witness– Kelley Hawthorne Jefferson- Smut Book Junkie Reviewer

Witness– Andrew Hamilton- Attorney, Alpha, Leading Male fictional character

Witness– Aubrey Everhart- Law Student, Law Intern, Ballerina, Leading Female fictional character.

Expert Witness– Whitney G. – Author and Creator of Reasonable Doubt Series

TESTIMONIES

Testimony: Something that someone says especially in a court of law while formally promising to tell the truth. Proof or evidence that something exists or is true

Reasonable Doubt 1

Michel Reinhard:

Reasonable Doubt 1 is one hot, erotic book! The writing was superb! It was clever, snarky, funny, delicious, mysterious and intensely erotic. The characters were compelling.

Attorney Andrew Hamilton makes Christian Grey, Gideon Cross, Colton Donavan, and James Cavendish look like amateurs. He makes no apologies for how he is.

Aubrey Everhart is a pre-law student and ballerina. Aubrey becomes an intern at Andrew’s law firm. Andrew can’t keep his hands off of her. It is a battle of wills, an erotic battle, and only one victor. Both have secrets that can tear this fragile relationship into an all out war.

As this tumultuous relationship progresses, it will become even more disastrous. A revelation will be made that will expose Andrew’s

secrets. This volume ends on a monstrous cliffhanger.

Kelley Hawthorne Jefferson:

Wow! Reasonable Doubt 1 was so hot my e-reader about melted. What are the chances that you would meet the man in real life that you have only ever talked to online? What person is the real you? The persona you created when you never thought you would meet in person or the person you are here and now.

I loved watching Andrew try to figure out what he should do next and Aubrey did not put up with his crap for one second. Her snark and wit had me laughing as I turned the pages.

RD1 left us on a spicy high note with a twist that had us stalking Whitney’s FB page waiting for her to give us just a little taste of RD2.

Andrew Hamilton:

One dinner. One Night. No repeats.

Our conversations were long over. There was nothing more we had to discuss.

We talked. We fucked. That was the end of us.

“It’s a case of a woman who befriended me online, but she turned out to be someone completely different than who she told me she was. So, in this case, how do you feel about reasonable doubt?”

Aubrey Everhart:

“Dear Mr. Hamilton, F*ckYou.”

Whitney G:

I’m forever grateful for you and your time, and I hope to be re-invited to your bookshelf with my next release.

Reasonable Doubt 2

TESTIMONIES

Michel Reinhard

I devoured this book the moment it was downloaded. WOW…what a wild ride! Not only was this installment in the Reasonable Doubt serial extremely erotic, it was also intense. The plot escalated beyond the reader’s expectations and ended on a cliffhanger that left a knot in your stomach. It left the reader with sympathy for Andrew. It gave us an understanding why he is an absolute prick. But what it doesn’t reveal is what happened. That will be in the next installment. I am positive that all of those who have read this installment want the next installment now!

Andrew and Aubrey are complicated characters. Andrew is the type of character that you really don’t want to like. He doesn’t treat Aubrey all that well but it’s obvious he is delusional about his real feelings. Once his secrets begin to unravel we see a completely different person. Aubrey, on the other hand, is compelling. She is a strong woman. She fights for what she wants and doesn’t back down. She has a lot to give. It’s unfortunate that those who should care about her only want to take from her. They don’t care if she has to make sacrifices that will cost her dreams and her heart. I wanted smack down Andrew, her parents, and those who were treating her badly. I am hoping that Aubrey will come out the victor and that all her dreams will come true.

I could not wait for Reasonable Doubt Volume 3 to release.

Kelley Hawthorne Jefferson:

I was up until 1:30 am when RD2 hit my kindle. I mean how in the hell was Andrew going to explain what happened at the end of RD1. What was really exciting about this series is that Whitney kept Andrew with his same true colors throughout the book. He was a character that you hated. He was hot, sexy, alpha, and broody and you wanted him to tear off your clothes and at the same time you wanted to slap him across the face. I was dying to figure out what the hell made Andrew such a jerk.

Aubrey was going through so much as it was trying to make her dream happen that everyone told her never would. She was not good enough for anyone including her parents, her teachers, and the man who unfortunately, she was falling in love with. She really read Andrew wrong and once he showed his true colors again she did not have much of a choice. It was do or die time and she was on her own.

When I finished RD2 I was saying a prayer for Andrew. I was praying for redemption and for him to pull his head out of his ass before it was too late.

Andrew Hamilton:

I was officially done with this monogamous game we’d been playing for the past couple weeks. It was quite fun-different, but since Aubrey could never be mine and I could never be hers, it quite fucking pointless too.

Aubrey Everhart:

You are a disgusting and vile asshole, and I honestly regret ever sleeping with you.

“Seeing as I’m the only one between us who actually feels anything, yes. Yes, that is how I really feel about you.”

“This is the last time you’ll ever pull this hot and cold shit on me.”

Everything we had was built on lies…

Whitney G:

**End of Episode 2**

Reasonable Doubt Volume 3

TESTIMONIES

Michel Reinhard:

Reasonable Doubt Volume 3 went way beyond the readers expectations. Whitney G delivered a grand finale that readers are going to more than satisfied with.

The tumultuous relationship between Aubrey and Andrew has clearly come to a conclusion. The closing arguments were delivered. The jury deliberated from page one to the very last word. The final conclusion and verdict were unanimous. The verdict was that Whitney G. and her Reasonable Doubt series had earned a 5 star review based upon the facts, the evidence, and proof beyond Reasonable Doubt.

The alleged addiction, emotional trauma , sensual expectations, and release date anxiety were clearly the readers reactions. Whitney G. did her job as a writer and delivered an outstanding literary experience.

Kelley Hawthorne Jefferson:

This is where you turn the pages slowly and relish each moment as it will be the last time you get to spend time with Andrew and Aubrey and learn anything new about what is going on in their lives. I think Whitney G. gave us a beautiful end to a very dark emotional rollercoaster ride and delivered the best Andrew and Aubrey there could be. I as well as several other readers will never accept this as the end and will beg Whitney mercilessly to write another chapter. This series was filled with just the right amount of spice, snark, wit, sexual tension, and angst to earn a Five Star Review by the Smut Book Junkies. Whitney G. will forever have a place in our heart, mind, body, and spirit as well as a special place on our e-readers. When people ask for reading recommendations the Reasonable Doubt Series will be on the tip of our tongue and at the top of our list. Bravo Ms. Gracia Williams on a job well done!

Andrew Hamilton:

“We’re more than friends…We always were. I just can’t be with you now.”

I’ll just replace the word ‘one’ with more…

Aubrey Everhart:

I liked you as “Thoreau,” but I love you as Andrew.

Whitney G.

** End of Episode 3**

FINDING

Finding: The court’s or jury’s decision on issues of fact.

The court has found that Whitney G. did her job as an author and delivered a literary experience that earned a 5 STAR Review for the complete Reasonable Doubt Series. Whitney G. developed charismatic characters whose behaviors and emotions captured the reader’s attention. Their story may have caused emotional angst, release date trauma, and reading addiction. That proves beyond Reasonable Doubt that Whitney G. did her job as an author and upheld her responsibility to deliver an unforgettable reading experience.

The court also finds that Andrew Hamilton was indeed an obnoxious prick with just cause. Andrew Hamilton will be placed on house arrest under the supervision of Aubrey Everhart until the court deems that he has paid for his crimes of the heart.

Aubrey Everhart will be awarded Andrew Hamilton’s heart with the contingency of a lifetime of devotion.

Smut Book Junkie will pay restitution to Whitney G. by awarding her a 5 Star Review for the Reasonable Doubt Series. Smut Book Junkie will also award the Reasonable Doubt Series the acknowledgment of a 2014 Favorite Read.

The court also recommends that readers purchase this series for an outstanding literary experience.

My cock has an appetite.

A huge and very particular appetite: Blonde, curvy, and preferably not a fucking liar…(Although, that’s a story for another day.)

As a high profile lawyer, I don’t have time to waste on relationships, so I fulfill my needs by anonymously chatting and sleeping with women I meet online.

My rules are simple: One dinner. One night. No repeats.

This is only casual sex. Nothing more. Nothing less.

At least it was, until “Alyssa”…

She was supposed to be a 27 year old lawyer, a book hoarder, and completely unattractive. She was supposed to be someone I shared law advice with late at night, someone I could trust with details of my weekly escapades.

But then she came into my firm for an interview–a college-intern interview, and everything fucking changed…

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

She lied to me…

She betrayed the one rule that I’m most adamant about: Honesty. Complete and utter fucking honesty.

I really wish she was someone else—someone who didn’t have the ability to make me feel, someone I could easily discard like the hundreds of women before her.

She isn’t.

I’m drawn to her like I’ve never been drawn to a woman before—completely captivated by the very sight of her. But unfortunately, with my past slowly re-surfacing for all of the world to see, I’ll have to find a way to let her go.

She can never be mine.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes

I hate him…

I hate that I fell in love with him, I hate that he didn’t love me back, and I hate the fact that I just made a life-altering decision just so I could get the hell away from him.

He’d always said that he was unchangeable, heartless, and cold…

I really should’ve believed him…

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Pre-Order Complete Series: Amazon

Author Bio:

A self diagnosed candy addict, travel junkie, and hypochondriac, Whitney Gracia Williams LOVES to write about characters that make you laugh, cry, and want to (in the case of Selena Ross) reach through your Kindle and slap them.

She is the “imaginary bestselling” author of the Jilted Bride Series, Mid Life Love, Wasted Love, and Captain of My Soul.

When she’s not locked inside her room, feverishly typing away on her laptop, she can be found here:

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Release Blitz + Review: Reluctantly Royal by Nichole Chase-Book 3 in Suddenly Series

Posted on 08/26/2014 by shellbellereads

We are beyond excited about the Release Day Launch of Nichole Chase’s RELUCTANTLY ROYAL!! RELUCTANTLY ROYAL is a New Adult contemporary romance novel being published by HarperCollins Avon imprint and is the third book in Nichole Chase’s Suddenly Series. We love the swoony romance in these books and this one delivers in spades!

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RELUCTANTLY ROYAL Synopsis:

Maxwell Jameson Trevor, prince of Lilaria, hates his royal role. Despising the limelight, he takes solace in his art studio and steers clear of any drama. But when one of the newly discovered royals passes away, Maxwell’s brother Alex asks him to break the news to the old man’s granddaughter. Though he hates to be the bearer of doom and gloom, he doesn’t want the poor girl to find out from the tabloids. For Maxwell knows all too well how devastating that could be.

Coming from a broken home and modest background, newly ordained Lady Meredith Thysmer has seized her chance to make a better life for herself and her son. She’s not afraid to use her best assets to get what she wants. But when the unpretentious yet devastatingly handsome Max delivers his news, her plans for the future come crashing to a halt. In the challenging days ahead, Max’s compassion, humor, and steadfast loyalty to Meredith and her son win her over. She quickly finds herself doing something she swore would never happen again: falling in love. And yet Maxwell still refuses to completely drop his guard. Somehow Meredith’s got to find a way to seduce this reluctant royal.

Excerpt:

As I turned to leave the room, my eyes fell on a sketch pad and I couldn’t help myself. Sitting back down in the chair I flipped it open and smiled at the drawings inside. Marty had promise for such a young kid. Turning to a blank page, I glanced around and searched for a pencil. Charcoal would be best, but pencil would do.

I started with the lines of his forehead, the curve of his impish nose, the roundness of his cheeks. I was lost in the sketch, enjoying the shadows, the tenderness in his expression, working to capture that moment of utter innocence.

“That’s beautiful.” Her voice was soft.

I looked up from what I was doing, not surprised that she had snuck up on me. When I’m lost in a project, the world disappears; the only thing I’m aware of are the layers of the project I’m working on.

“He’s a good subject.” I turned back to the paper and finished up the shading of the blanket.

“Only because he’s asleep and not moving.” Her quiet laugh sent shivers over my body.

“That does help.” I smiled up at her. “But it’s the contrast. The contrast of him awake versus him asleep. He looks so young right now, so innocent.”

“What do you mean?” She leaned closer to look at the picture.

“He’s so mature, quick-witted.” I whispered the words. “But here he is, looking like the child he is.”

“His teachers say that,” she said. “That he’s quick to pick things up.”

“I’d say so.” I turned and handed her the sketch pad. “I hope you don’t mind that I drew him. The light and shadows were too perfect to resist.” Sort of like her right now. The way the moonlight glinted in her eyes and shone along her hair. Her perfect features would make any artist ache to draw them. Her pixie nose, the heavy eyelashes, the curve of her body hinted at by the oversized sweater she had wrapped around herself. It made my palms itch. Partly because I just wanted to touch her, to see if she would taste as sweet as she looked in that moment.

“Thank you for keeping him entertained.” She stood up. “Can I keep this?”

“Of course.” I stood up and stretched. Her eyes swept over my chest and then back up to my face. Maybe I wasn’t the only one tempted to touch. I hated to admit it, but I had a flare of pride. “I enjoyed hanging out with him.”

I was surprised to realize I meant it. I never would have thought spending time with a six-year-old would have been enjoyable.

“Looks like he did too.” She moved away from the door and I followed her into the hallway.

“Did you get everything settled?”

“I think so.” She frowned.

“What’s wrong?” Her expression worried me.

“Granddad would have hated a large ceremony.” She sighed and headed for the stairs. “But I guess that as a duke there are some things that have to happen.”

“I don’t blame your grandfather.” I followed behind her. “I would want a small ceremony, not to be made into a production.”

“I’m starting to think you don’t like any type of production.” She looked at me over shoulder.

“Not really, no.” I wasn’t going to lie. “I don’t like being the focus, being the center of attention. It makes me uncomfortable.” I wasn’t going to lie, but I hadn’t intended to tell her so much about me.

“And yet you agreed to help me with my grandfather’s funeral.” She turned to me at the bottom of the stairs and set the sketch pad on a table. “Why?”

I stared at her for a minute, enjoying the way her eyes looked up at me, the tilt of her chin, the way her hair cascaded around her shoulders. “I don’t know.”

Unable to help myself, I reached out and touched her cheek with my fingers. Her pupils dilated and she inhaled softly. With one thumb I traced the dip under her plump bottom lip. Her hand reached up to trace my jaw and she took a step closer to me.

“You should be running from me as fast as you can.” She whispered the words. “I’m everything you don’t want.”

“I’m not so sure.”

“I live for the spotlight, it’s my food.” Her eyes were half lidded as she edged closer to my mouth. “And you’ve seen my family. I’m trouble, Max.”

Did I care? I wasn’t sure I was capable of making a real decision as her smell wrapped around my senses. The only thing I knew was that I wanted to taste her, to touch her, to press her against my body. To hear her say my name again.

Dipping my head, I grazed her lips with mine and I was lost. On a sigh, she leaned into me and wrapped her hands around my neck. Tilting her head back, I brought my mouth to hers carefully, softly, tasting. I wanted to deepen the kiss, to hear her moan, to feel the way her body could wrap around mine, but I kept it soft, sweet, and simple. She was in such a hard place, she needed to be protected, treasured by someone.

And right now, I was that person.

Michel’s Review

Reluctantly Royal by Nichole Chase is the third book and last book in the Suddenly series. It is the highly anticipated book that features the prince that would rather be anything than royal. Prince Maxwell Jameson Trevor would rather work in his art studio , live a private life, and stay clear of all the royal drama.

When he is asked to break the news of the death of a duke to his granddaughter, he reluctantly does it. The family is a newly discovered line in the royals and has lived the ordinary life. While being the bearer of bad news, he also finds it very refreshing to be around very real people. He finds himself drawn to Lady Meredith Thysmer and her young son. He willingly avails himself to help her through this trying time.

The two are drawn together and find they have much more in common than their royal lineage. Max is enthrall with Meredith’s son. From video games to fishing, these two find a charming relationship that includes the love they have for Meredith.

Reluctantly Royal is a charming romance. It is written from duo POV’s per chapter. This book is written with great ease and the reader is immersed in the story from page one. The story and plot flow effortlessly and delivers a good story.

I would recommend Reluctantly Royal.

ARC provided by the Publisher, via Edelweiss, in exchange for an honest review.

Nichole Chase Bio:

Nichole Chase is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of Suddenly Royal, Flukes, The Dark Betrayal Trilogy, and several short stories. She is also the instructor of Say What? a dialogue class at the Romance Academy.

Nichole lives in Georgia with her husband, energetic daughter, superhero dog, Sulcata tortoise, and two cats. When not writing, you may find her reading, painting, crafting, or chasing her daughter around the house while making monster noises.

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