Release Blitz + Excerpt + 5 Star Review: Desperate Chances by A. Meredith Walters – Bad Rep Series – Book 4

Posted on 09/30/2015 by shellbellereads

Sex changes everything.

And love can turn into an enemy…

Mitch Abrams, the bassist for the popular rock band
Generation Rejects, has been in love with Gracie Cook for years. But Gracie, a
complicated girl with a lot of baggage, was too blind to see how she felt about
the man who had always stood by her.

Until one night of passion brought them closer than they had
ever been before.

Feeling off balance and out of control, Gracie does the only
thing a girl with self-destructive tendencies can do: end things with Mitch
before they can really begin.

So Mitch moves on. With his band, his friends, and a new
girlfriend.

Yet he can’t seem to forget about the girl who threw his
heart away.

Gracie, who is still struggling to build a life after
crashing to the bottom, finds it hard to forget about her one night with Mitch.
And even as she tries to convince herself it was only sex, her heart knows
differently.

But life is full of chances and desperate moments. And when
Mitch and Gracie are thrown back into each other’s lives, will they seize at
the opportunity to do things right?

Or will the rock star and the less than ordinary girl crash
and burn?

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Michel’s Review

It’s been a wonderful journey reading the Bad Rep series by A. Meredith Walters. Readers have embraced the band members of Generation Rejects. From the beginnings as a local hometown bar/ college band to professional recording artists. Along the way they have met some dynamic women, fallen in love, and found there is more to life than their music careers.

Desperate Chances is the final book in the Bad Rep series. Mitch Abrams and Gracie Cook are finally going to get their happily ever after. It has been a hard road and a lot of heartache. Gracie had problems with alcoholism and anorexia. She had to crash and burn before she could give her love. She had to learn to lover herself. The one person that always had her back was Mitch. His friendship was the only solid truth in her life. Shortly after she became clean and sober she slept with Mitch. The morning after she panicked because of all of her issues. She wasn’t ready to take their relationship to the next level. She hadn’t healed enough to love Mitch completely. She broke his heart into a million pieces.

Mitch was devastated by Gracie’s rejection. He finally moved on and became involved with someone else. Someone that would always be there for him. In his head it felt right but in his heart it felt wrong.

One year later Gracie has finally come to terms with herself and her past mistakes. Her biggest regret was losing Mitch. She misses their deep abiding friendship. She misses Mitch. She has realized that she has always been deeply in love with Mitch. Now it’s too late. He has someone else.

The heart wants what the heart wants. Both Gracie and Mitch are going to realize they were meant for each other. They will have to learn forgiveness and compassion towards one another. They will have to completely surrender their hearts and souls to one another. They will have to take desperate chances.

Desperate Chances is my favorite book in the series. Not only do Gracie and Mitch get their happily ever after, the other members of the band will get theirs too. This series comes full circle. They are all going to move on to the next phases in their lives. It’s been a great journey and their final show is a standing ovation.

BAD REP

PERFECT REGRET

SEDUCTIVE CHAOS

The New
York Times and USA Today bestselling author of Contemporary and Paranormal
romance including The Find You in the Dark and Bad Rep series as well as the
upcoming stand alone romance, Reclaiming the Sand, and a dark new adult series
for Gallery Books.

A.
Meredith spent ten years as a counselor for at risk teens and children. First
working at a Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault program and then later a program
for children with severe emotional and mental health issues. Her former clients
and their stories continue to influence every aspect of her writing.

When not
writing (or being tortured with all manner of beauty products at the hand of
her very imaginative and extremely girly daughter), she is eating chocolate,
watching reality television that could rot your brain and reading a smutty
novel or two.

A.
Meredith is represented by Michelle Johnson with the Inklings Literary Agency.

FACEBOOK GOODREADS AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE WEBSITE TWITTER

Release Blitz + Review: Twisted Honor by Becky McGraw -Deep Six Security Series – Book 2

Posted on 09/15/2015 by shellbellereads

Twisted Honor

Deep Six Security Series – Book 2 – Slade

By Becky McGraw

Synopsis:

The last thing Slade wants is to be in charge of anyone but himself. The military taught him the price of being in command. Dave Logan is on his honeymoon though, and leaves him right where he doesn’t want to be. Things go from bad to worse very quickly when a prince’s son is kidnapped, and Deep Six is on the verge of losing its biggest security contract on his watch.

The head of security at the hotel gets fired over the incident and Slade thinks teaming up with small, but feisty Taylor Kincaid to find the boy is smart. As the situation unravels though, he sees that there is a lot more to the situation than meets the eye, and Taylor could be in just as much trouble as the missing child. When the full picture becomes clear, Slade realizes they are all in trouble and he has some tough choices to make that could cost him the only woman he’s even considered letting himself love in a very long time.

Twisted Honor is the second book in a brand new erotic romantic suspense series, Deep Six Security, by New York Times, USA Today and Amazon Bestselling Author Becky McGraw.

Other books in the Deep Six Security series:
Till Death – Book One
SEALed Fate (Deep Six Security/Hot SEALs Kindle Worlds Crossover Novella)

PLEASE NOTE: This book contains strong language and graphic sex. It is intended for mature adult readers only.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

____________________________

Tracey’s Review

As Dave Logan’s second-in-command at Deep Six Security, Slade is less than excited to be left holding down the fort at home while Dave and his new bride Susan are away (and incommunicado!) on their honeymoon. Because, as sure as shooting, trouble comes knocking, and it’s up to Slade and the rest of the Deep Six crew to keep things from boiling over. Add in one small but mighty woman and her ill-behaved dog, a kidnapped boy, and a former Special Forces operative with a bad attitude, and it’s all Slade can do to keep from losing it.

Becky McGraw’s Deep Six Security series is quickly becoming a favorite of mine. The men of Deep Six are a force to be reckoned with, but it’s their personalities and quirks that make them so enjoyable. And, of course, any woman that is equal to the task of hanging with the men of Deep Six has got to be feisty and self-assured, and both Taylor and Cee Cee have that in spades.

I thoroughly enjoyed Twisted Honor. It is action-packed, with an engaging storyline, and, as I said, characters that I have really come to like. I also very much appreciate that Becky weaves information into the plot about subjects that are very pertinent to former military folks and the people that care for them.

Twisted Honor is an all-around good read, and is an easy 4-star book for me. If you’re a fan of a bunch of alpha males and the women that love them (and, really, who isn’t?!), grab this one and enjoy. (P.S. If you haven’t read Till Death (Deep Six Security Book 1), I highly recommend it, too.)

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About Becky Mcgraw

Becky McGraw is a married mother of three adult children, and a Southern girl by birth and the grace of God, ya’ll. She resides in South Texas with her husband and dog Abby.

A jack of many trades in her life, Becky has been an optician, a beautician, a legal secretary, a senior project manager for an aviation management consulting firm, which took her all over the United States, a real estate broker, and now a graphic artist, web designer and writer. She knows just enough about a variety of topics to make herdangerous, and her romance novels interesting and varied. Being a graphic artist is a good thing for her too, because she creates her own cover art, along with writing the novels.

Becky has been an avid reader of romance novels since she was a teenager, and has been known to read up to four novels of that genre a week, much to the dismay of her husband, and the delight of e-book sellers.

She has been writing fictional short stories and novels for fun, as well as technical copy for her jobs for many years. She was a member of the Writer’s Guild on AOL, as well as a founding member and treasurer of the first online chapter of the Romance Writers of America, From the Heart Romance Writers. Currently, she is a AN member of RWA and a general member of FTHRW.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Blog Tour + 5 Star Review : Under My Skin by J. Kenner – The Stark International Trilogy – Book 3

Posted on 09/14/2015 by shellbellereads

Under My Skin

Stark International Trilogy – Book 3

By J. Kenner

Synopsis

Jackson Steele and Sylvia Brooks are back in the powerful finale of a provocative, sizzling-hot new erotic trilogy set in the world of J. Kenner’s beloved Stark novels: Release Me, Claim Me, and Complete Me.

He’s the only man I’ve ever loved, and the one man I can’t bear to lose.

Jackson Steele is my light in this world. Charismatic, bold, and always in control, he knows what he wants and how to get it—and absolutely nothing stands in his way. His hold on me is magnetic, his claim on me complete, his kiss my ultimate escape.

We both harbor dark secrets that could tear our lives apart. Though we’ve tried to bury our pasts, there are certain people who won’t let us forget. But the closer danger comes, the brighter the fire between us burns—our ecstasy consuming and soothing us both.

There’s no telling what lies ahead, but I know that Jackson never gives in without a fight. I’d do anything he wants to keep him safe, give him anything he needs. And now that we’re in deep, nothing can make me run.

Under My Skin is intended for mature audiences.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Excerpt

“Take off your clothes.”

I shake my head.

His brow quirks just slightly. “Take off your clothes.” This time, each word is stressed.

I lick my lips. “No.”

The corner of his mouth twitches, and he stands up slowly. “No?”

I meet his eyes defiantly. “I thought you were taking what you wanted.”

“I am,” he says. “What I want is your submission.”

“Oh.”

I see a flash of victory in his eyes before he starts to walk away. “Decide how you want to play the game, sweetheart. But know that I’m only willing to play by my rules.”

He is almost to the steps that lead back to the deck when I call out to him. He turns, his brow raised in silent query.

I slip off my ballet flats. And then, as he slowly walks back toward me, I peel myself out of my jeans, taking my underwear with them. He reaches down, then uses the tip of his finger to lift them off the deck of the boat. “Lace. Very nice.”

“I’m glad you approve.” My voice sounds breathy. I’m standing there in only a T-shirt and bra. The window facing the ocean is open, and the cool night air teases me until I am right there on the edge, waiting to go over, and wanting that push so badly that I’m not sure I can survive the anticipation.

Michel’s Review

Under My Skin by J. Kenner is the third and final book in The Stark International Trilogy. It should not be read as a stand alone novel and should be read in series order.

The Stark International Trilogy has been captivating. This trilogy has everything readers look for in a series. It has a powerful erotic romance between two strong characters. It’s loaded with intrigue, mystery, conflict, and a powerful cast of supporting characters. At the same time it is a tender beautiful romance between two people that have struggled with their pasts.

Under My Skin is the powerful conclusion. On My Knees left off with a doozy of a cliffhanger. Jackson Steele was facing arrest for the murder of Robert Cabot Reed. He was also trying to get full custody of his young daughter. The impending arrest could affect the outcome of his parental rights. The arrest could alert the media of the reasons behind his extreme protests against the movie being made about a painful part of his past. If this is exposed not only will it hurt his daughter but will also make him look all the more guilty for the murder of Robert Cabot Reed. It could also expose Sylvia’s dark secrets and her connection to Robert Cabot Reed. It may very well be the final straw that destroys the Cortez Project. His house is of cards is falling down. His life is falling apart and he’s fighting to save the two most important people in his life.

This book was intense, heart breaking, emotional, and a page turner. It kept the reader on the edge of their seats. When all the revelations are made and all of the emotional battles are hard won, Jackson and Sylvia are finally going to get their happily ever after.

J. Kenner did a magnificent job with her delivery of The Stark International trilogy. She created a story and charismatic characters that left the readers wanting more. She gave a final resolution that will leave the readers more than satisfied.

I highly recommend The Stark International Trilogy. Under My Skin is the powerful conclusion.

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The Stark International Trilogy

Say My Name – Book 1

“>New York Times bestselling author J. Kenner kicks off a smoking hot, emotionally compelling new trilogy that returns to the world of her beloved Stark novels: Release Me, Claim Me, and Complete Me. Say My Name features Jackson Steele, a strong-willed man who goes after what he wants, and Sylvia Brooks, a disciplined woman who’s hard to get—and exactly who Jackson needs.

I never let anyone get too close—but he’s the only man who’s ever made me feel alive.

Meeting Jackson Steele was a shock to my senses. Confident and commanding, he could take charge of any room . . . or any woman. And Jackson wanted me. The mere sight of him took my breath away, and his touch made me break all my rules.

Our bond was immediate, our passion untamed. I wanted to surrender completely to his kiss, but I couldn’t risk his knowing the truth about my past. Yet Jackson carried secrets too, and in our desire we found our escape, pushing our boundaries as far as they could go.

Learning to trust is never easy. In my mind, I knew I should run. But in my heart, I never felt a fire this strong—and it could either save me or scorch me forever.

Say My Name is intended for mature audiences.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo / Google Play

On My Knees – Book 2

Jackson Steele and Sylvia Brooks continue to thrill in the second novel of a scintillating, emotionally charged new trilogy that returns to the world of J. Kenner’s beloved Stark novels: Release Me, Claim Me, and Complete Me.

I never thought I’d lose control, but his desire took me right to the edge.

Powerful, ambitious, and devastatingly sexy, Jackson Steele was unlike any other man I’d ever known. He went after what he wanted with his whole mind, body, and soul—and I was the woman in his sights. One touch and I surrendered, one night together and I was undone.

Jackson and I had secrets, dark pieces of our pasts that threatened to swallow us both. We couldn’t outrun our demons, or the people trying to tear us apart. But in our passion we found salvation, and in each other’s arms we found release.

I was scared to trust Jackson fully, to finally let go. Yet no matter the dangers that lay ahead, I knew I was his—and now that we’ve laid claim, there’s no more holding back.

On My Knees is intended for mature audiences.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Under My Skin – Book 3

He’s the only man I’ve ever loved, and the one man I can’t bear to lose.

Under My Skin is intended for mature audiences.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

__________________________________________

Author Bio:

J. Kenner spent more than ten years as a litigator in Southern California and Central Texas, using her rare free time to indulge her passion for writing. California born, she now lives—and writes—in Texas, with her husband and daughters.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Happy Release + Review: Making A Play by Victoria Denault – Hometown Players Series – Book 2

Posted on 09/08/2015 by shellbellereads

Making A Play

Hometown Players Series – Book 2

By Victoria Denault

Synopsis

He’ll do whatever it takes to win–on and off the ice.

Luc Richard is the hottest player in the NHL–and it has nothing to do with hockey. His racy relationship with his supermodel ex set the tabloids on fire but nearly put his career on ice. To avoid being traded, Luc agrees to take a break from the spotlight–and from women–and spend the off-season at home in Silver Bay, Maine. It’s the perfect plan… until he reconnects with Rose.

Rose Caplan is tired of being shy, sweet, and safe. She’s ready for passion, romance–and Luc. Having loved him longer than she can remember, she’s finally ready to prove she’s not the same innocent little girl he once knew. Off the ice Luc doesn’t do games, but this new Rose makes him feel like playing a little dirty. If he’s really got a shot at her heart then he’s not just playing to win. He’s playing for keeps.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Michel’s Review

Making A Play by Victoria Denault is the second book in the Hometown Players series. This series is based on professional hockey players from Silver Bay, Maine. If you are a sport romance enthusiast, this series is perfect.

It’s summer and the hometown players are home in Maine for their summer break. While Jordan Garrison and Jessie Caplan have resolved their problems and moved onto a committed relationship, the other Caplan sisters and Luc Richard are anything but settled. The other two Garrison brothers are building their lives and everyone is home for Cole Garrison’s wedding.

Luc Richard has returned home to Maine facing some very serious problems. His professional hockey career is floundering. His contract with his team is in peril. He may be traded and right now his stats are not looking good. His past relationship with a model turned into a media monster. The team management believes that is why his ice time has been weak. They are blaming him for their poor standings in the NHL. The truth of the matter is the team as a whole has problems. His former relationship wasn’t serious in his eyes. His former girlfriend Nessa used him for more media exposure. He was okay with that until it started affecting his career. Now he’s home in Maine with a plan. He’s intensified his training and he has sworn off women. He’s got to get his game under control. What better place to prepare than home with his friends and family. His safe haven.

Rosie is the youngest of the Caplan sisters. She is the sister that believes in romance, rainbows, and unicorns. She has recently graduated college and is now ready to build her own life. For years she has had a crush on Luc Richard. He has only seen her as a friend and little sister. This summer she is going to give it her best shot to make Luc notice her as a woman.

Both Rosie and Luc’s plans go astray when they return home to Silver Bay. They can’t stay away from one another but they also can’t be together. As the summer progresses they will both have to make some life changing choices.

Meanwhile, all is not well in the Garrison family. There is unrest in Devin’s marriage. It’s about to implode… which will be the next book in the series.

I have really enjoyed the Hometown Players Series by Victoria Denault. The characters are dynamic and easy to connect with. The deep bonds of friendship and family are the root of this series. The romance is fun, sexy, and heartwarming.

Making A Play can be read as a stand alone romance or in series order. I highly recommend the Hometown Players series.

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One More Shot

Hometown Players Series – Book 1

By Victoria Denault

Synopsis

They say you only get one shot at making your dreams come true.

Jordan is determined to take two.

Drafted by the NHL at eighteen, Jordan Garrison was headed for fame, and there was only one person he wanted to share it with-Jessie Caplan. He was crazy in love with her, and had finally told her so. They shared an amazing night . . . and then everything fell apart.

Jessie tries not to think about the night she gave herself to Jordan-or how he broke her heart. She tries not to think about it, but she does. Especially now, when she’s staring into his sky-blue eyes for the first time in six years. After so much time and torment, she can’t tell if she loves him or hates him. But Jordan has learned enough to know a connection like theirs is rare. He was lucky to find Jessie once. No way will he lose her again.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Making A Play

Hometown Players Series – Book 2

By Victoria Denault

Synopsis

He’ll do whatever it takes to win–on and off the ice.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

The Final Move

Hometown Players – Book 3

Release Date: December 8, 2015

Coming Soon….

__________________________________

Author Bio

Victoria Denault loves long walks on the beach, cinnamon dolce lattes and writing angst-filled romance. Before focusing exclusively on writing novels Victoria was a journalist, a stand-up comic and dabbled in acting. She has lived in many major cities across North America, spent her childhood summers in Maine and adult summers in Spain. She’s now happily settled in Los Angeles with her husband and their two chubby Chihuahuas.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Review: In The Dark by Monica Murphy – The Rules Series – Book 2

Posted on 09/06/2015 by shellbellereads

In The Dark

The Rules Series – Book 2

By Monica Murphy

Release Date: August 25, 2015

Buy : Amazon / ITunes

Stuck spending the summer with his screwed up family, Gabriel Walker is bored out of his mind and looking for an adventure. And he seems to find it with the hot girl who lives next door. The attraction between them is instant. Electric. Soon they’re spending every stolen minute together. Talk about the perfect summer fling…

Lucy isn’t what she seems. She doesn’t live next door—she’s the girl who’s been hired to house sit for the summer while the family goes on a worldwide vacation. If Gabe wants to believe she’s a spoiled rich girl looking for some fun, she can go along with that. After the summer, she’ll never see him again.

They don’t count on running into each other at college. Now Lucy must keep up the pretense of being a rich girl—and it’s exhausting. She knows she’s falling in love with Gabe and she’s scared he feels the same. Will he still care about her when he discovers the truth?

Michel’s Review

In The Dark by Monica Murphy is the second book in The Rules series. This New Adult series features three rich bad boys and the dynamic young women that capture their hearts and change their bad boy ways. This series is fun, sexy, and light hearted. It’s not weighed down with emotional angst or over the top sexcapades. It’s the perfect series to add to your ereader and is guaranteed to delight.

Gabriel Walker is on a forced summer vacation with his family. He is bored and spends his time spying on his sexy neighbor. When he finally approaches her little does he realize that he has just given away the key to his heart.

Lucy is house sitting for the summer. She knows she doesn’t fit in with the rich elite residents. She tries to stay away from Gabe Walker but it is impossible. He may be rich but he is also a decent guy that’s fun to be around.

The two decide to have a summer fling. Gabe assumes Lucy is in the same social class he is. She doesn’t tell him any different. What does it matter, they won’t see each other after summer ends.

Summer comes to an end and it’s back to school. Both Gabe and Lucy are surprised when they run into one another on campus. She thought he was living in Texas. He thought she was a rich girl living out of daddy’s pockets. Now they both have to face the truth. The one thing that is still apparent is that they can’t stay away from one another or keep their hands off one another. But first they will have to deal with their secrets.

Once again Monica Murphy wrote the perfect new adult romance. It had the perfect combination of the carefree coed spirit, the emotional moments, and the sizzling hot romance.

I highly recommend In The Dark and Fair Game. The Rules series is delightful.

I am looking forward to the final book, Slow Play.

The Rule Series

Fair Game

The Rule Series – Book 1

Release Date: May 12, 2015

By Monica Murphy

Buy: Amazon

Synopsis

FAIR GAME (The Rules Series, Book 1) May 12, 2015

Bad enough Jade Frost’s boyfriend drags her to a boring poker game. Even worse that he actually threw her into the betting pot during an intense round…and lost. Talk about the perfect excuse for Jade to make him her ex-boyfriend.

Now she supposedly belongs to the ultra rich, extremely gorgeous Shep Prescott. He could have anything he wants yet he seems to be in hot pursuit of her. No matter how rude, how snarky, how impossible she acts, it doesn’t stop him. More like her horrible behavior seems to make him want her more.

When she finds herself starting to fall for him, Jade’s confused. There’s more to Shep than the carefree rich charmer he portrays. He has secrets. And she wants to discover them, no matter how ugly they might be…

In The Dark

The Rule Series – Book 2

Release Date: August 25, 2015

By Monica Murphy

Synopsis

IN THE DARK (Book 2) August 25, 2015

Lucy isn’t what she seems. She doesn’t live next door—she’s the maid who’s been hired to house sit for the summer while the family goes on a worldwide vacation. If Gabe wants to believe she’s a spoiled rich girl looking for some fun, she can go along with that. After the summer, she’ll never see him again.

Slow Play

The Rule Series – Book 3

Release Date: November 3, 2015

By Monica Murphy

Synopsis

SLOW PLAY (Book 3) November 3, 2015

Newly broke girl Alexandria Asher just wants to live a normal life. After her parents are sent to prison on embezzlement charges, she enrolls in college under her mother’s maiden name and tries her best to pretend she’s someone else.

Tristan Chadwick is everything Alex is trying to avoid. A seemingly egotistical, lazy, rich jerk, she dumps her beer on his head when he comes on to her one night at a party. This only spurs Tristan into action. He loves nothing more than a challenge. And the beautiful Alex is exactly the type of challenge that intrigues him.

Despite her reluctance, Alex finds herself quickly involved with Tristan. Underneath that playboy exterior is a good guy, a sweet and sexy guy who she is undoubtedly falling for. What they both don’t realize is the actions of Alex’s parents are the reason for so much tragedy in Tristan’s family. And when Tristan discovers who Alex and her family really is, can he forgive and forget?
______________________________________________________________________________

I write books. I have the best job ever. New York Times and USA Today bestselling author. Writer of new adult contemporary romance-ish stuff. Published with Avon and Bantam. Mom and wife. Native Californian.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Release Blitz + 5 Star Review + Giveaway : Tyrant by T. M. Frazier – King Series – Book 2

Posted on 08/17/2015 by shellbellereads

Tyrant

King Series – Book 2

Conclusion to King

Release Date : August 17, 2015

By T. M. Frazier

Amazon / Amazon UK

Synopsis

I.Remember. Everything.

Only now I wish I didn’t.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Even if that means marrying someone else…

_______________________________________

Excerpt

King snarled. “You seem to have forgotten who the fuck I am, Pup. So I’m going to remind you.” He pressed his hips against mine. “I’m the man who took you against your will and handcuffed you to my fucking bed. I’m the man who wanted you, so I fucking kept you.” He cocked an eyebrow. “Do you really think you have a choice when it comes to being mine?”

King lifted me onto the dresser and pushed himself between my legs, forcing my legs apart. He held my wrists behind my back forcing my shoulders backwards and pushing my chest into his. My dress rode up to the tops of my thighs. King pushed a strand of hair behind my ears and leaned in to me, his lips just a breath away from mine. The room was getting hot. I couldn’t breathe. I needed…I don’t know what I needed. “No more questions.”

I opened my mouth to argue. “Stop fucking talking,” he snapped.

King lifted me off the dresser and carried me and set me down in front of the full-length mirror that hung on the closet door. He stood behind me. A head taller than me and outweighing me by a hundred pounds, our differences had never been more obvious. His dark jeans and dark tank top were a stark contrast to my little white eyelet sundress. My pale skin next to his tanned. My white hair to his black. It was a sight that made my knees weak. Because although the reflection in the mirror made our differences obvious, it also made me see how well the two fit together.

Michel’s Review

Tyrant is the sequel to King by T. M. Frazier. This dark thriller captured my attention with the first book, King. It ended on a cliffhanger that both shocked me and left me dying for the rest of the story. I counted down the days for Tyrant to release.

In the first book the readers met Doe and King. Their dark and dangerous relationship was beyond complicated. King’s world came crashing down and his only bargaining chip was the woman he loved. He had to make a choice between blood and love. He had to give Pup (aka Doe) a chance to get her old life back. She didn’t belong in his world. But did she belong in the world she came from?

Tyrant picks up where King left off. Doe has gone back to her privileged life as a senator’s daughter. Although she has not regained her memory, she has snippets of moments in her old life that seem familiar or real. She feels a connection with her toddler son. She feels removed from her family, her home, and her old boyfriend, the father of her son. As her memories begin to resurface it becomes clear that her life was one of misery and despair. It becomes clear why she ran away. It becomes clear that her life is in danger.

The only person that can save her before it’s too late is King.

Meanwhile King is dealing with the vile snakes in his own world. Anyone connected with him is in danger. It is better that he stay away from Doe for her own safety. What he doesn’t know is that her world is just as deadly as his. Will he be able to save Doe in time or will he lose his life trying.

Tyrant kept me on the edge of my seat. I was completely shocked as Doe’s story began to unfold and the real Tyrant was revealed. I could not put this book down.

I highly recommend the King series. Both King and Tyrant will keep the reader glued to the pages.

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Haven’t read this series yet?

Meet King & Pup in King (Book One)

The King

Release Date: June 15, 2015

By T. M. Frazier

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

Synopsis

Homeless. Hungry. Desperate.

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

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

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

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

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

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Author Bio:

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

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

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

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

It will not be about hamsters.

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

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Review: I Want You To Want Me by Erika Kelly – A Rock Star Romance – Book 2

Posted on 08/14/2015 by shellbellereads

I Want You To Want Me

A Rock Star Romance – Book 2

By Erika Kelly

Synopsis

From the award-winning author of You Really Got Me comes the next romance in her red-hot Rock Star Romance series, about a rocker who lives for his music—and loves with all his heart.

Derek Valencia finally has the success he’s worked so hard for. His band is touring its debut album and great reviews are rolling in. But when pictures of him tossing naked groupies off a balcony go viral, it’s damage-control time. He’s assigned a “babysitter” whose sole job is to keep him out of trouble.

Violet Davis swore she’d never work in the music industry again, but being a minder for a rock star will earn her enough to pay off the mortgage on her wildflower farm. And for a girl brought up in the foster care system, owning her own home means more to her than anything.

Though at first the two bang heads, the rocker and the farm girl soon grow close and realize that they make sweet music together. But can a girl who craves the stability of life on a farm really make it work with a man whose life is spent on the road with his band?

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

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A Rock Star Romance Series

You Really Got Me

By Erika Kelly

Synopsis

The first irresistible novel in a hot new series about a rock star on his way up—and the woman he wants to take all the way…

Emmie Valencia has what it takes to be the music industry’s hottest band manager. She just needs to prove it. Determined to discover a killer new band, Emmie is ready to make her move. First stop: Austin, Texas.

As a sizzling-hot lead singer, Slater Vaughn has no trouble raising heart rates—but his band’s been flat-lining for years. When Emmie, his bandmate’s sister, crashes with them in exchange for some free management, her industry know-how lands them a spot in the biggest music festival in Texas. But it isn’t just her business acumen that catches Slater’s attention. Emmie is sexy and warm, and—for the first time in his life—he wants more.

But as irresistible as Slater is, Emmie is done with musicians. In her experience, a man can’t be a rock star and someone to trust with your heart—but Slater is determined to show her he’s both.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / IBooks

Tracey’s Review

Although Derek Valencia and the guys from Blue Fire agreed that they wouldn’t become poster children for the rockstar lifestyle, they’re early into their first tour when things start to go south. Enter Violet Davis, minder extraordinaire. If she can help them clean up their acts, they’ll be able to achieve their dreams. But when close quarters have Derek and Violet spending a lot of time together, things really start to heat up.

I WANT YOU TO WANT ME is the second book in the Rock Star Romance series by Erika Kelly. I absolutely loved this book. Derek and the boys are like an über-talented version of the Lost Boys, and Violet is their Wendy. Both Derek and Violet know what it’s like to live without encouragement and affection, and neither is looking for a relationship. Miscommunication and preconceived notions about themselves and each other make their love match difficult at times, but thank goodness for Emmie, Derek’s sister, and Slater Vaughn, lead singer of Blue Fire. These two, crazy in love themselves, are the voice of reason and reality for Derek and Violet, helping them see what everyone else does, that they are much better together than apart (yeah, I’m a fan of the HEA…).

I thoroughly enjoyed I WANT YOU TO WANT ME. The story is well-written, and the characters are absolutely wonderful. I have to go back and read YOU REALLY GOT ME (Book 1), and give this book a solid 4.5 stars. Add this one to your TBRs, book lovers, because it is a must-read for fans of the rockstar romance.

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About Erika Kelly

Award-winning author Erika Kelly has been spinning romantic tales all her life—she just didn’t know it. Raised on the classics, she didn’t discover romantic fiction until later in life. From that moment on, she’s been devouring the genre and has found her true voice as an author. Over three decades she’s written poems, screenplays, plays, short stories, and all kinds of women’s fiction novels. Married to the love of her life and raising four children, she’s lived in two countries and seven states, but give her pen and paper, a stack of good books, and a steaming mug of vanilla chai latte and she can make her home anywhere.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Happy Release + Review : Exposed by Brighton Walsh – Captive Series – Book 2

Posted on 07/21/2015 by shellbellereads

Exposed

Captive Series – Book 2

By Brighton Walsh

Synopsis

In this sexy, suspenseful New Adult novel, a young woman escaping her criminal past is snatched away and taken into hiding by her ex-boyfriend, the ultimate bad boy.

Evie is about to embark on the perfect life. Beautiful, poised, and engaged to the son of a Senator and a rising lawyer, she fits the part of trophy wife perfectly, except for one thing: her entire identity is a lie.

Five years ago she created a new identity for herself, but it all crashes back when something she witnessed years ago comes back to haunt her. Now she’s in danger of losing more than her social status.
Determined to protect the careful life she’s built for herself, Evie doesn’t want anything to do with Riley, the criminal for hire who stole her heart years ago. But Riley has other ideas. He’s never forgotten Evie, and to protect her, he steals her away. Hidden from the world, sparks begin to fly as old memories resurface and their passion reignites.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Michel’s Review

Exposed is the second book in the Captive series by Brighton Walsh. It is a New Adult Romantic Suspense book.

I loved the first book in the Captive series. It was intense, fast paced, and had a surprising plot. I was looking forward to Exposed because it featured Riley,the younger brother of Ghost. These young men were brought up on the streets of Chicago and learned a life of crime at a very young age. Although his older brother tried to keep Riley out of the crew, life circumstances made it impossible. Their involvement with the crew taught them both some very harsh lessons. Gage (Ghost) lost his own identity, Riley lost the love of his life. He lost his girlfriend when he was sixteen. He has been seeking revenge for years her death.

As it turns out, Evie is not dead. She became involved in something too dangerous and lost control. She faked her death and became a new person. For five years she has been Genevieve Meyer, socialite and now finance to a prominent family. She knows her time is numbered and her past is going to catch up with her sooner or later. She is hoping for later.

When the past finally comes knocking on her door it comes as a complete surprise. Riley has come to her rescue. Ghost gave away her secret and sent Riley.

Riley not only has been betrayed by his only love but also by his brother. They shattered his soul. When he finds out why he is ready to fight and kill if necessary.

Evie’s secrets will be exposed. She and Riley will have to figure out a way to survive and defeat their enemy once and for all. Time is not on their side.

This book had a good plot but was not as intense as I hoped it would be. It was predictable throughout the story. I really had a hard time connecting with Evie. I sympathized with her past issues but at times had a hard time understanding her reactions. Riley seemed to accept everything too easily. Somehow their story just didn’t seem to connect all the dots. I just could not invest myself in their relationship.

Overall the plot was good but not terrific. This book lacked the intensity we have come to expect in this series.

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The Captive Series

Captive

By Brighton Walsh

Synopsis

He’s the most dangerous man she’s ever met…and she’s falling in love with him.

Madison Frost is desperate to escape her life. Daughter of a prominent businessman, she has everything a girl could ask for. Except for a family who’s present in her life, and anyone to talk to outside the four walls of the prison she calls home. Madison dreams of one day leaving her life behind. She never thought being kidnapped is how it would happen.

Now she’s being held captive by a man who’s as frightening as he is sinfully gorgeous. Enormous, muscular, and filled with secrets, the man they call Ghost is an enigmatic mercenary, and Madison is trapped with him. She doesn’t know who hired him or why, but the more time she spends at his mercy, the more she realizes he’s not what he seems. Beneath his rough exterior lies an unexpected gentleness and a heart as broken and battered as her own.

But as Madison lets down her walls, Ghost holds tight to his, hiding secrets that could destroy everything.

Buy: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / ITunes / Kobo

Exposed

Captive Series – Book 2

By Brighton Walsh

Synopsis

In this sexy, suspenseful New Adult novel, a young woman escaping her criminal past is snatched away and taken into hiding by her ex-boyfriend, the ultimate bad boy.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

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href=”https://saucysouthernreaders.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/brighton-author-photo_color.jpg”>Brighton Walsh spent nearly a decade as a professional photographer before deciding to take her storytelling in a different direction and reconnect with writing. She lives in the Midwest with her husband and two children.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Happy Release + Review: In The Fast Lane by Audra North – Hard Driving Series

Posted on 07/14/2015 by shellbellereads

In The Fast Lane

Hard Driving Series- Book 1

By Audra North

Synopsis

LIFE IN THE FAST LANE
Racing cars is in Kerri Hart’s blood–literally, since it’s the family business. But Hart Racing is in dire financial straits, and as the only female rookie driver, Kerri’s sponsorship offers always tend to be of the unzipped racing-suit variety. It’s a message she’d rather not sell to her young fans. But how can she afford not to?

LOVE ON OVERDRIVE
Ranger Colt knows how to make a woman’s heart race. But when his voice pops up on Kerri’s headset–while she’s in mid-tailspin–she’s in no mood for his charms. Colt Hardware now has a significant stake in the Hart family business, and Kerri has no choice but to work with him. But when her ex-boyfriend makes a very public, tabloid-fodder scene that threatens to tarnish her image, it’s Ranger who comes to the rescue. Pretending to be engaged to generate some good publicity seems like a good plan. In fact, it works–all too well. What begins as a ruse is revving up to feel a whole lot like the real thing. Will Kerri and Ranger’s fake-lationship take a wild turn. . .and lead them toward the finish?

“The type of book that keeps you up late into the night, In the Fast Lane is utterly addictive and completely satisfying. Audra North has her finger on the pulse of contemporary romance-flawless writing, smart heroines, and sexy-as-sin heroes.”- Lauren Layne, USA Today bestselling author.

Buy: Amazon / B & N / ITunes / Kobo

Michel’s Review

In The Fast Lane by Audra North was a fun book. I thoroughly enjoyed this sweet romance.

Kerri Hart is working in man’s world. She is the only rookie driver that is female. Her family is a legacy in the racing world but their team is in trouble financially. When Colt Hardware tries to buy into sponsorship for the racing team she flat out refuses because of their conditions. She is perceived by the media and fans as a hot headed woman. It is farther from the truth. She has ethics that she lives by. Being the only woman in her field puts her in the spotlight and her behavior is blown out of proportion.

When Ranger Colt shows up and states that he now owns Hart Racing, Kerri is beyond angry. She is upset with her brother for selling out. She is upset that Ranger Colt is too sexy for his own good. She is upset that she has to pose as his finance in order to keep her reputation clean. What she is most upset about is falling for the sexy new owner. Ranger Colt has her heart racing and panties melting.

Ranger Colt looked upon his promotion as a road block. He had no interest in turning Hart Racing into a profitable business. He is only doing it to prove to his father that he is better than him. He has an ax to grind. If it takes turning Hart Racing around, he will do it. What he didn’t count on was losing his heart to the beautiful, dynamic driver on his team. Kerri is making his head spin and heart beat faster.

Kerri and Ranger are doing more than burning rubber. They are burning up the sheets. The only race they are losing is their hearts.

These two will have to give and take. They will have to learn what is more important.

Audra North wrote an entertaining and sexy romance in her new series. I look forward to more books in this series.

Read In The Fast Lane by Audra North. It won’t disappoint!

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Author Bio:

Audra North fell in love with romance at age thirteen and spent the next twenty years reading as many romance novels as she could. Even now, after having read over one thousand of them, Audra still can’t resist the lure of a happily ever after, and her collection continues to grow. She lives near Boston with her husband, three young children, and a lot of books. Visit her website at audranorth.com or find her (way too frequently) on Twitter @AudraNorth.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Release Blitz + Review + Giveaway: Sweet As Sin by J. T. Geissinger – Bad Habit Series- Book 1

Posted on 07/14/2015 by shellbellereads

Sweet as Sin by J.T. Geissinger
Bad Habit Series – Book #1
Publication date: July 14th 2015
Genres: Contemporary, New Adult, Romance

Synopsis:
Twentysomething Kat Reid is loving life as an in-demand Hollywood makeup artist. She has absolutely no interest in rock ’n’ roll, but in order to pay the mortgage, she agrees to work on the set of a rock video for the world-famous rockers known as Bad Habit…which brings her face-to-face with Nico Nyx, lead singer of Bad Habit and Adonis in the flesh.

However, the fiercely independent Kat isn’t impressed by the hard-living, womanizing rock star. But when Nico’s model girlfriend shows up to the set drunk and Kat is tapped to replace her as the video’s sexy bride, her combustible chemistry with Nico suddenly threatens to consume the set. Nico feels it, too—and becomes determined to win Kat over, body and soul. Yet behind his rock god swagger, Nico hides a dark secret. Can he rock Kat’s world forever, or will he just break her heart?

Buy: Amazon / B & N

“Here’s the thing, Nico—”

“Don’t overthink it, Kat. You wanna see me or not?”

My pulse was all over the place. I sat up, then regretted that move as the room began to wobble. “I do.”

“What’s the address?”

“I wasn’t done talking.”

He cursed. I ignored it. “I do want to see you, but I just want to lay a few ground rules before we start this whole . . . whatever this whole thing is.”

I waited for him to respond. He sounded like he was listening hard, and he didn’t answer, so I plunged ahead. “I don’t want to just . . . um . . . ”

“You got a three-date rule, sweetheart?”

I was relieved that he sounded amused. Thank God he had a sense of humor.

“Because I can respect that. But you should realize that when you see me today, it’ll be the third date. So the next time you see me, all bets are off.” His voice dropped. “And I wanna see you again tomorrow.”

“We haven’t even had one date yet!”

“The shoot, then the restaurant. That’s two.”

His idea of what comprised a date was seriously impaired.

“Those don’t count as dates! We were working on the shoot, and you were only at the restaurant for like five seconds. If I see you today, this will be our first date.”

I didn’t mention that he’d gotten the details of the three-date rule wrong. It was sex on the third date, not after. I was trying to buy myself as much time as possible, because he was moving at the speed of a rocket.

“Okay. I’ll give you the shoot. But the restaurant should count. Being with someone at a restaurant is textbook definition of a date. No matter how long it lasted.”

I could not believe we were actually having this conversation. I sighed.

“I’ll take that as a yes. Now give me the fuckin’ address, Kat, before I wear a hole in the damn rug.”

He was pacing?

“What part of town are you coming from? Because I need, like, a half hour to get cleaned up.”

Nico’s response was a growl. I gave him the address.

“You’re in luck. I’m comin’ from the Hollywood Hills. It’ll take me at least forty-five minutes to get to Venice in traffic.” He paused. “Or I could take the bike. That’ll get me there in thirty.”

Was he screwing with me right now?

“You still there, Kat?”

“I’m still here.”

“I’m gonna be there in thirty minutes. You gonna be ready for me?”

Oh, the dark promise in that tone. I felt like I was standing at the edge of a cliff, looking down. I already knew I was going to fall. The only question now was, how far?

And how hard?

And would the fall break me?

“I’ll be ready,” I whispered.

Nico’s voice was almost a purr. “Darlin’, that’s exactly what I’ve been waitin’ to hear.”

Before I could say another word, Nico hung up.

Michel’s Review

If you are looking for an intense rock star romance look no further. Sweet As Sin by J.T. Geissinger is just the ticket.

This book has a brooding rock star with personal issues. A heroine that is strong but also plagued by her past. Both characters have issues that make it almost impossible to come together. Their worlds collide in so many ways but somehow they find the strength to let it go. They find the strength in one another through love.

This book is intense and seems to be on the darker side. If you have issues with violent tempers and domestic abuse this may not be the book for you. It is a truthful look into the darker side. For me it was a hard book to read because of it.

The romance was intensely sexy and had me swooning.

Sweet As Sin is well written and well plotted.

Overall the book was very good. I am looking forward to more books in this series.

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AUTHOR BIO:
J.T. Geissinger is an award-winning author of paranormal and contemporary romance featuring dark and twisted plots, kick-ass heroines, and alpha heroes whose hearts are even bigger than their muscles. An entrepreneur since she began hand-addressing envelopes for a local beauty pageant when she was 14, she has owned businesses as diverse as a temporary employment agency to a flower shop. It wasn’t until hitting a significant birthday that she became motivated to realize her life-long dream of writing a novel.

Her debut novel, Shadow’s Edge, was a #1 Amazon domestic and international bestseller, and won the Prism award for Best First Book. Her follow-up book, Edge of Oblivion, was a RITA© Award finalist for Best Paranormal Romance from the Romance Writers of America. Book 6 in the Night Prowler series, Into Darkness, won the Golden Quill award for Best Paranormal/Urban Fantasy. Her work has also finaled in the Booksellers’ Best, National Readers’ Choice, and Daphne du Maurier Awards.

Foodie, wine enthusiast, and nap connoisseur, she lives in California with her husband, on whom all her heroes are based.

To receive notification of new releases, contests, and giveaways, sign up for her newsletter at www.jtgeissinger.com

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Goodreads

Giveaway

Kindle Paperwhite (US only)
3 eBook copies of Sweet as Sin (INTL)

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Saucy Southern Readers

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Tag Archives: Review

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Blog Tour + 5 Star Review : Under My Skin by J. Kenner – The Stark International Trilogy – Book 3

Happy Release + Review: Making A Play by Victoria Denault – Hometown Players Series – Book 2

Review: In The Dark by Monica Murphy – The Rules Series – Book 2

Release Blitz + 5 Star Review + Giveaway : Tyrant by T. M. Frazier – King Series – Book 2

Review: I Want You To Want Me by Erika Kelly – A Rock Star Romance – Book 2

Happy Release + Review : Exposed by Brighton Walsh – Captive Series – Book 2

Happy Release + Review: In The Fast Lane by Audra North – Hard Driving Series

Release Blitz + Review + Giveaway: Sweet As Sin by J. T. Geissinger – Bad Habit Series- Book 1

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