A Covert Affair by Katie Reus (Review)

I have love the Deadly Ops books they have been fantastic. They seem to be packed with suspense and danger. However, A Covert Affair wasn't my favorite. Don't get me wrong it was good, but it was missing a few things for me. With the previous books it started out with a bang, and had you hanging on the seat your pants. Here we go:

By the end of Edge of Danger, Ortiz is hurt badly. Scary bad. Now he's recover and about to go out on his first op after the incident. Man, Ortiz has been beat up pretty bad in this series, he definitely deserves a happy ending. Anyway, mission bound to figure out if one guy is behind the missing women in the area. He also finds out that a past relationship might have ties. Eek.

Amelia Rios and Nathan Ortiz had a relationship when they were younger. However, she ended it abruptly and Nathan never understood. Second chance love story. However, their reunion is a little harder get fixed, because 1) the mission 2) the secret Amelia has been holding on to. When Nathan finds out about the reason for Amelia breakup, he's hurt. He has to process and focus on the case.

All right, A Covert Affair was a good read, but it lacked something for me. It might be the massive explosion within the first couple of chapters or a scary car chase. There is a car chase in the story, but nothing like the previous ones. Rocky start to the reunion, which I understand need to be done. Even towards the end I wasn't satisfy. I wonder if they found Tessa or Danita, because they are mention in the book quite a bit, but I didn't see them. I guess I have to assume they were rescue and found, but still I want to know for sure. Yes, there is a little twist on person was, and I'm not sure if there is going to be any more books. The ending kind of left that open in a sense. I do hope there is more, because I love the series even if A Covert Affair isn't my fave. Katie is still a wonderful writer and her stories do grab your attention. Others have loved this one, but it was okay.

Copy provided by Berkley via NetGalley

Rating:
3 1/2 Stars

Author's Pal Spotlight + Review + Excerpt + Giveaway: Nice Girls Don't Ride by Roni Loren

Nice Girls Don't Ride

Roni Loren

April 21, 2015

Book Blurb:

Natalie Bourne thinks she has the perfect night planned for her twenty-first birthday. But when her car breaks down and her boyfriend bails on her, she’s left stranded in an auto shop dealing with a way too cocky, way too hot mechanic, who seems to be intent on pushing every button she has.

Monroe Hawkins knows he shouldn’t be messing with a girl from the uppity private college. Especially when he can tell she sees him as the help. But he’s having trouble resisting the redhead with the smart mouth and the killer legs. So when Natalie’s night goes from bad to worse, there’s no way he’s letting her spend her birthday alone. He makes her a deal—he’ll take her home but not until the sun comes up.

Ten hours, one motorcycle, and the city of Austin at their fingertips…things are about to take a major detour. And soon, there may be no U-turn in sight.

My Thoughts:

Chasing Danger by Katie Reus (Review)

If you have been following the Deadly Ops, you would remember Hannah Young from the first book. She's Sophie's friend who gets kidnapped. Sorry to spoil that if you haven't read the series yet. So, she suffers from a little PTSD from the incident. Anyway, she meets Dax and hooks up. She thinks there might be more, but he disappears and she's hurt. He returns, but can't share what happen to him, because she doesn't have clearance. Now he's trying to get back into her good graces. Hannah ends up in danger and needs Dax's help.

Okay, the danger Hannah ends up in isn't tied to the series. Basically, you can read this story and not feel like you are missing anything in the rest the series. This is Hannah finding love, who happens to work for the NSA. Fortunately, he's able to use his resources to make sure Hannah stays safe.

Overall, Chasing Danger is super quick read. It gives a taste romance and a little suspense. For those who have read the series get to see what happen to Hannah after the incident. These two are a cute couple once everything is settle down.

Copy provided by Berkley via NetGalley

Rating:
4 Stars

Tasty Book Tours Spotlight + Review + Excerpt + Giveaway: Montana Actually by Fiona Lowe

Montana Actually

Medicine River # 1

By: Fiona Lowe

Releasing January 6^th, 2015

Berkeley / Penguin

Blurb

A big-city doctor in a small-town Montana practice....A former nurse who has sworn off doctors forever....The scene is set for passions to ignite in Big Sky Country.  Perfect for readers of Robyn Carr and Sherryl Woods.

City doctor Josh Stanton and his sports car don’t suit the country, but with his medical school debt about to bury him, Josh has to make the best out of a bad situation. Adjusting to his new job and life in the middle of nowhere isn’t easy, but at least the views of the mountains—and one distractingly attractive local—are stunning...

After eight years away, Katrina McCade is back in Bear Paw for a break from her life, bad choices—and men. But when a broad-shouldered stranger bursts into town, she finds herself unexpectedly saddled with the town’s sexy new doctor as a tenant. Katrina doesn’t need a man to make her happy, especially a disgruntled physician. But try telling her body that…

My Thoughts:

Broken by Laura Wright (Review)

First off, I'm loving the The Cavanaugh Brothers books. So far, the ultimate story line is getting better. This is a series you are not going to want to start in the middle or anywhere else, but the beginning. Here's why: The main story line is the brothers trying to figure out who killed their little sister. With each book more is reveal. So, I'm advising not to start anywhere but with the first book Branded.

Okay, now that I got that out of the way I can go into my thoughts of Broken. I'm seriously loving this series. Yes, I love that they are getting a little closer to whodunit in Cass's murder. I mean a little. I honestly believe Laura is going to drag that secret till the very end of the series, but you know what I'm okay with that. I like that we can't guess it right away, it gives that little suspense.

Blog Tour Guest Post (Top 5) + Review + Giveaway: Forever Starts Tonight by Roni Loren

The question I asked Roni Loren: If you could go anywhere in the world what would be your top 5 places for a romantic getaway and why?

I’m of the mind that anywhere can be romantic if I’m with the hubby (and have a babysitter for the kidlet, lol), but there are a few places that I’d gravitate toward if I could choose.

1. Lake Tahoe in the winter – This is where Forever Starts Tonight is set and I did that for a reason. Many years ago, the hubby and I went out there for a trip and got snowed in by a blizzard on day two. We had no snow tires on the car, so were stuck. But we were one of the only couples at the resort since ski season hadn’t opened yet. So we had restaurants to ourselves and all the beautiful scenery. We watched movies and drank hot chocolate, played in the snow. It was a fantastic place to get stuck. : )

2. France – I’m not sure which region I’d prefer, but I’ve never been so I’d want to see as much as I could (and eat as much as I could, lol.)

3. Italy – Similar reasons to France. Food, wine, long walks with beautiful scenery and architecture.

4. New England in the fall at a B&B – I’ve always wanted to see the leaves turning and tour that region during that time. I like in Dallas, which basically has two seasons—really hot summers and icy winters. So I’d love to truly experience fall.

5. Doing the Pacific Coast Highway road trip – I’d love to go on a long road trip with the hubs where we get to see the ocean and stop in all the towns along the way to find the best dive restaurants and such. (See? Everything goes back to food for me, lol.)

Readers: If you could go anywhere for a romantic getaway, where would you go?

Book Blurb:

The wait is over. They fell in love in Melt Into You, but that was only the beginning. Now New York Times bestselling author Roni Loren dials up the passion as three lovers reinvent the meaning of togetherness and find out if love is truly enough…

Two dominant men, one beautiful woman. Jace Austin knows he doesn’t have what you’d call a conventional relationship with Evan and Andre, but it works. Boy, does it work—until Evan starts acting strangely and Andre’s ex-fiancée pops back into his life, unbalancing a perfectly happy threesome. Jace is forced to face the unthinkable: that the two people he cares most about in this world are in danger of slipping away from him.

So Jace plans a surprise getaway to a secluded mountain cabin for the three of them. And he knows exactly what he needs to do: give both his lovers a fantasy week they’ll never forget. And the possibilities for pleasure are endless. But when they get snowed in and the heat between them reaches a fever pitch, secrets come out. And Evan has one that could change all their lives forever.

My Thoughts:

Bound to Danger by Katie Reus

I was able to start the second book in Katie Reus Deadly Ops series. The next book is Bound to Danger. You still fine an action pack read that's filled with danger. 

All right, so in Bound to Danger, we meet Cade O'Reilly and Maria Cervantes. Cade and Maria had a budding relationship eight years. Once Maria's brother died, Cade shut himself off from Maria. I know pretty jacked up. Jump ahead eight years later and they are reunited, too bad it couldn't be under pleasant circumstances. Now Maria life is in danger and Cade feels he's the only man who can make sure no harm comes to her. 

Like the previous Deadly Ops book there is just as much danger and excitement. Right from the start you have explosion and it continues throughout the story. Of course you have the bad guys, but you actually do understand where they are coming from. I actually don't blame for what they did and didn't want to do it out of malice, but revenge. If the villain's sister weren't harm, they wouldn't have done what they have done. Then again we wouldn't have a story. At the same time, we meet up with Levi and we get a little more about his wife's death in the story. So, we are building his story. I hope he finds justice. 

Overall, it's action pack thrilling read. I enjoyed the rebuild of Cade and Maria's relationship. At first, I thought I wasn't sure if I was going to like Maria, but I warmed up to her. You gotta love Cade cause he's just so brash and we need to do things my way. Seriously, Katie doesn't disappoint in her writing and I can't wait for more Deadly Ops books. I can't wait for Levi's story, because you gotta love a rogue Ops guy. 

Copy provided by Berkley via NetGalley

Virgin: A Novel by Radkika Sanghani

Well, I have mentioned Penguin's program First to Read, a few times. Some of the books, I have grabbed them and made sure I had a guarantee copy, and other times I received them on a whim. All right, I got a copy of Virgin: A Novel by Radhika Sanghani on a whim. I clicked on the book cause it sounded interesting. Plus, if I got it, great, and if I didn't, I was fine. As you can see I'm writing about the book, so I received a copy.

Anyway, I wasn't sure what to expect when I started Virgin. Virgin is a story about a young woman, Ellie, who is lamenting that she's still virgin. Oh dear god, she's still virgin. At first. I was frustrated with Ellie. Seriously, what is wrong with being a virgin. I was a late bloomer and I survive. She didn't realize it was important to her until after the fact.

I struggle with her character, because she was so desperate to get rid of it that she was willing to give to any guy. I'm sorry, but that some pretty low self-esteem there. It wasn't until she made a new friend, Emma, who was like you need to embrace being a virgin and not be so hang up on being a virgin. I liked Emma a lot, because at times she was Ellie's sounding board.

Surprisingly, I did like the book. I wouldn't normally pick this book up. For one thing I love happy endings, and Virgin is more a coming of age kind of story. Yes, Ellie discovers herself, and of course she learns a valuable lesson by the end. By the end, Ellie learns more about herself from her bumps in the road and hopes her wisdoms helps others. The first part of the book is a bit rough, but once Ellie starts her vlog (virgin/vagina blog) it starts to get a bit funny. Overall, not a bad read and I'm surprise by my reaction. However, US readers need to be aware that there a lot of british terminology that they might not be familiar with. I know I got a few confused and it took a times before I realize what the author was trying to saying. So, if you are looking for a story with a young woman who is trying to figure a way to lose her virginity, you might want to give Virgin a try.

Copy provided by Penguin via First to Read Program

Rating:
4 Stars

Branded by Laura Wright

So, I just finished Branded by Laura Wright, which happens to be the first book in her new series The Cavanaugh Brothers. I have to say that I really enjoyed the beginning of the series.

Branded introduces us to the Cavanaugh brothers who are returning to the family ranch for the funeral of their father. Deacon, the oldest, would love nothing more than to see the property demolished. All he has to do is wait with his brothers, James and Cole, for the reading of the will. However, dear old dad had a surprise when he claims a bastard child in his will, Blue Perez (Cavanaugh). So, this sets the tone of the story. Secrets are starting uproot. Plus, you get to hear Cass's, their decease sisters, voice. Which there is a mystery behind her death that was never solve. So, that adds to the story and I hope we get to know what happens to Cass by the end of the series.

Anyway, Branded focus more on Deacon and his plan to level their childhood home to ground. However, there are couple obstacles in the way: 1) The will and what it revealed. 2) Mackenzie Bird.

Some people may not like Deacon, because he's power hungry and bent on vengeance. You never fully comprehend his reasoning for wanting to destroy everything he has ever known until we get closer to the end. However, I didn't mind Deac. He did soften up a bit in the story thanks to Mac.

Now Mac was an awesome character. She was best friend with Cass, and took her death pretty hard. However, she survived, and ended up being the foreman on the Triple C Ranch. I love her, because she's passionate about the ranch and she doesn't take any guff from the guys, especially Deacon.

I enjoyed their chemistry. They both give a good fight for what they believe in. Plus, you see Deac and Mac developing a love for one another, but there's one thing that stands in the way, the ranch.

Overall, a fantastic start to a new series. I seriously can't wait for the next book, because I want to see what happens to the other brothers, and if they find out how Cass died. So, if you are looking for a new series with a little mystery, you might want to checkout Branded by Laura Wright.

Copy provide by Penguin Group via NetGalley

Rating:
1/2

Shield of Winter by Nalini Singh

I got a chance to read Shield of Winter by Nalini Singh. I must confess that I haven't read the previous books. I know, but I honestly didn't believe I would be selected to read this from Penguin First to Read program. I went in with the attitude if I get "cool", if I didn't I was okay with that. Then I get the email saying I was selected. Then I actually saw the glossary in the front of the book and started to panic and thinking "What the hell did I get myself into." So, there's my initial thought. However, I needed to read Shield of Winter cause I committed to reading the book. With all that said, I have to say that I thought the book was fantastic. Yes, I was somethings that were troubling at times, because I was muddling through this blindly. I think I did all right. So, let me proceed on.

At the beginning of the story, we find Silence has been broken. If I had read the previous books I would know life before this happen, but I didn't and I had to move forward. However, things are a bit chaotic and they are Psy's are trying to find a way to stabilize what is going on, because their race is going psychotic. Basically, the Psy's need to find the Empathy, because they might hold the key to save their race. Of course it's a bit more complex than that.

For someone that hasn't read the previous books, I actually found the story captivating. I'm not saying to anyone who hasn't started to the series to go out get this book, because that wouldn't be wise. After reading Shield of Winter, I want to go back and start from the beginning. I'm amazed on how Nalini has this ability to build this world and suck you into the story. I enjoyed how Vasic and Ivy learn to work together and bond. Cause Vasic is an Arrow and they aren't know for feeling anything. They are basically cold killing machines, and to get paired up with someone that feels everything. It's a pretty hard concept. Ivy is an E-Psy and she feels everything.

Overall, great book. I'm glad I was selected to read Shield of Winter. Now I need to go back and catch up with the rest of the story. I those who have been following the series will still enjoy the storyline and will be anxious to see what comes next.

Copy provided by Penguin via First-to-Read

Rating:

InkSlinger PR Review + Giveaway: A Beautiful Distraction by Kelsie Leverich

A Beautiful Distraction Synopsis:

A brand new novel in the New York Times bestselling Hard Feelings series—where nothing’s more dangerous than a bad boy with a broken heart…

First Sergeant Rafe Murano did everything to the extreme. He trained harder, he fought harder, and, unfortunately, he loved harder. And falling for the wrong woman nearly destroyed him.

Home from a deployment, and without his missions to consume him, Murano is ravaged by memories of his heartbreak. So he drinks until he’s numb and drowns himself in meaningless one-night stands. But they only take the edge off…

Until he meets Fallon.

Haunted by her past, Fallon Kelly knows all too well about the desperate desire for an escape. So when she sees the tatted-up bad boy who’s one punch away from a ride in the back of a squad car, she offers a distraction—one that quickly becomes an addiction.

Little does she know, this bad boy can love so hard, it can break her…

My Thoughts:


I have to say that I thought this story was wonderful. I found the story line refreshing. Yes, both Rafe and Fallon faced some personal demons and in away they coped with them in a toxic way. However, once they found each other they started to cope in different ways. I enjoyed how each of them started to breakdown the walls they have built around their hearts. 

I like Rafe. He's totally alpha male type. However, he will go in and rescue a damsel in distress and kick douche bags ass. I love that he had a bad boy persona, but deep down he did have a loving nature. I like Fallon. Sometimes when you get a heroine whose an emotionally closed off, they tend to rub people the wrong way. Yet, Fallon wasn't completely emotionally closed off, because she cared about those around her. 

I love setting of the story and how it starts off in a burlesque club. Yes, I enjoyed that it had strong themes in the story. I liked how the past shaped Rafe and Fallon to be the people that they are currently. This isn't a happy cheery book, but an emotionally charge read. By the end of the Beautiful Distraction I had tears falling down. Overall, I pretty good read and worth the time. 

Purchase Links:

Amazon ~ Barnes & Noble

Kelsie Leverich Bio:

Kelsie Leverich is the New York Times bestselling author of The Valentine’s Arrangement as well as other contemporary romance titles. Kelsie grew up in the small town of St. Joseph Illinois before getting married and following her husband from one Army post to another.  After eight years, they finally settled down in Avon, Indiana with two adorable knuckleheads that are better known as her kids.  Kelsie's life revolves around her family (to include three dogs and a cat) and most of the time, actually all of the time, it’s a crazy mess—but that’s the way she loves it!  When Kelsie’s not writing, you can usually find her snuggling on the couch with her kids and a good book or out on the lake with family and friends.  Kelsie is not a morning person, has a soft spot for animals, loves musicals, hates seafood, and thinks laundry is the source of all evil.

Represented by Jill Marsal of Marsal Lyon Literary Agency.

You can find Kelsie on Twitter and Facebook, or visit her website at www.kelsieleverich.com

Links:

Twitter - @KelsieLev

Facebook

Website

Pinterest

A Beautiful Distraction Goodreads

InterMix

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Blog Tour + Excerpt + Review + Giveaway: The Temptations of Anna Jacobs by Robyn Dehart

Book Blurb:

Love and justice…

When Drew Foster is released from prison, he doesn't much care about salvaging his soiled reputation. Though he's working undercover, everyone in Victorian London believes him guilty of the Jack the Ripper murders and that his brother paid for his "innocence."

Despite her genteel upbringing, Anna Jacobs is intent on finishing medical school and becoming a physician. Society's ridicule has never bothered her, but when her brother, the Yard's best detective, is scorned for letting Drew go, she confronts the one man who can set the record straight at a ball. She certainly doesn't count on the rogue being dashing and handsome, nor on him stealing a passionate kiss.

Anna's brazen contempt for his dangerous reputation captivates Drew, but he is harboring secrets that make him unfit to court any proper woman. As he finds himself an outsider among his colleagues at Scotland Yard, the feisty beauty offers up her medical knowledge to assist him on the case. But when the real killer returns to London to continue his reign of terror, can Anna find safety in Drew's arms?

My Thoughts:

In The Temptations of Anna Jacobs, we are still continuing the hunt for Jack the Ripper. However, we are a few steps closer by the end of the story. In The Secrets of Mia Dancers, we see Drew getting wrongly accused for the Ripper's crimes. At the beginning of The Temptations of Anna Jacobs, Drew gets enlisted to help solve the crimes. Anna's brother gets called away to Scotland and Drew is pretty much on his own, but enquires the help of Anna.

All right The Temptations of Anna Jacobs, is a great continuation of the Dangerous Liaisons series. Yes, we get more information about the Ripper. By the end of the story, we get two names of the possible identity of Jack the Ripper. I know exciting. However, that isn't all. No my dears, we end up a copy cat who wants to be great than the man. Not only do we get to know these characters in-depth, but we also get know Drew and Anna a little more. I did like the secondary love story in the book between Anna's mom and her professor. That was sweet add to the story. I liked how Anna's instructor helped the mother understand the good her daughter could do the world.

Yes, The Temptations of Anna Jacobs helps take a few steps forward to solving the mystery and it has a sweet love story in there too. I actually love how Anna and Drew work well together on getting closer to the Ripper. Now I wonder what will happen in the next book. Will we be able to find out the true identity of the Ripper? Hmm.

Overall, a pretty good mystery read. However, I will recommend to read the first book before diving into The Temptations of Anna Jacobs, because the story does build from the first book.

Copy provided by Penguin InterMix via NetGalley

Rating:

Purchase links:

Kindle ~ Barnes & Noble ~ iTunes

Author Bio:

National Bestselling author, Robyn DeHart's novels have appeared in the top bestselling romance and historical romance lists. Her books have been translated into nearly a dozen languages. Her historical romantic adventure series, The Legend Hunters, were not only bestsellers, but also award-winners, snagging a Reader's Crown and a Reviewer's Choice award. She had three releases in 2013 and 2014 will see four more, all set in the popular historical romance Regency and Victorian eras.

Known for her "strong dialogue and characters that leap off the page" (RT Bookclub) and her "sizzling romance" (Publishers Weekly), her books have been featured in USA Today and the Chicago Tribune. A popular writing instructor, she has given speeches at writing conferences in Los Angeles, DC, New York, Dallas, Nashville and Toronto, among many others.

When not writing, you can find Robyn hanging out with her family, husband (The Professor) a university professor of Political Science and their two ridiculously beautiful and smart daughters, Busybee and Babybee as well as two spoiled-rotten cats. They live in the hill country of Texas where its hot eight months of the year, but those big blue skies make it worth it.

Places to find Robyn:

Site ~ Jaunty Quills ~ Peanut Butter on the Keyboard ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Pinterest ~ Goodreads

Giveaway Info:

Victorian Necklace and a $25 Gift Card (Amazon or Barnes & Noble)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Excerpt from The Temptations of Anna Jacobs:

She was quiet for several moments. He watched her face as she considered all the possibilities. Even now, the taste of her lips stayed with him, and he wanted more. More of her kisses, more of her smiles. Simply more of Anna.

Perhaps she had other thoughts that could explain the differences in the injuries, or the use of an alternate weapon.

“Why did you kiss me? The other day?” she asked.

Drew felt his brows rise in surprise. “Is that what you were thinking about? I suspected your thoughts were more academic in nature.”

She shrugged. “Academic or not, I am still a woman.”

“It seemed the thing to do,” Drew said with a shrug of his own.

“‘It seemed the thing to do,’” she said, mocking his tone. She frowned. “That’s not a very good answer.”

He resisted the urge to smile. Hell, he didn’t know why he’d kissed her. Because the desire to do so had been so overwhelming he hadn’t been able to resist her lips. In fact, he longed to embrace her again, right now. “What would be a good answer?”

“How the devil should I know?” Her hand fluttered to her chest. “I don’t go around kissing unsuspecting people.”

“Fair enough. Well then, I kissed you because I wanted to.” Perhaps honesty would appease her curiosity. “Because your mouth is tempting, even though you talk far too much.”

“That doesn’t even make any sense. Well, the bit about my talking too much, I admit I can be verbose—”

“You’re doing it again,” he interrupted her. He leaned forward, toward her chair. “Only makes me want to kiss you again.”

She waved her hand. “That’s ridiculous.”

“The mere notion of kissing you? Hasn’t any man ever expressed a similar interest?”

A blush stained her exposed throat, marring her lovely creamy skin. Her hand followed the telltale sign of her embarrassment and she fiddled with the necklace around her throat. She swallowed visibly. “I don’t see how that is any of your business. I’m not even certain how we got on this discussion,” she said.

“You asked me why I kissed you.”

“Yes, and your answer is unsatisfactory. I shall merely have to conclude that you men are a peculiar lot.” She pointed at him.

“I’m going to kiss you again, Annabelle,” he said softly.

Her mouth opened, then slowly closed. “Right now?”

“Would you like me to kiss you right now?”

“I cannot answer that.” She shook her head fervently. “It would be utterly improper.”

“You, a lady going to medical school and assisting me with an undercover investigation of a murder? 

Last night we broke into a government building. Your behavior hasn’t exactly been the pinnacle of 

propriety.”

Her brow furrowed. “That is quite different.” Her tongue darted out and wet her lips.

He felt a stab of desire, hot and poignant in his gut. Oh yes. He wanted her. Whatever the reason, logical or not, he wanted her quite badly. Too badly, in fact, for him to kiss her now when his passions were so close to the surface. It was entirely too likely they would not be interrupted, that no one would come along and stop him from ruining her here in his parlor.

“You already answered my question,” he said.

She frowned. “I don’t believe I did.”

“Oh yes, Anna, you want me to kiss you very badly. Now that I know that, I’m going to make you wait. For a little longer.”

“You are an insufferable man!” she said as she came to her feet.

Otherwise Engaged by Amanda Quick

So, I have been reading Otherwise Engaged by Amanda Quick. When I saw this on the First-to-Read, I wanted to read. Instead of waiting and praying I would get selected, I decided to get an automatic copy with my points. Let just say it was worth it.

Anyway, we get a chance to meet Aminty Doncaster who happens to stumble upon Benedict Stanbridge who happens to be in need of desperate help. Basically, nurses him back to help and they part. Once back in London Aminty ends up thrust into danger and manages to escape the Bridegroom Murderer. Shortly, after the incident Benedict returns and offers up protection to Aminty as they work together to solve two cases together with the help of Inspector Logan and Aminty's sister Penny.

When I started reading, Otherwise Engaged I found myself getting sucked into the story. There is a lot going on in the book, but you realize it's all tied together. You start to connect the dots, but you don't see all the dots connecting to till the end. By the end you're like whoa what the heck just happen and you see the puzzle come together. Otherwise Engaged has more a mystery/suspense feel to it, than romance. Yes, there's a little romance, but Benedict and Aminty are kind of concern about catching the bad guys. Honestly, I loved the twist and turns in the plot. I thought I had it figured out, but then there's a curve ball.

Honestly, blown away by Otherwise Engaged. I would never in a million years guess on the ending. Overall, a fantastic read. Yes, suspenseful and will keep you guessing. A dash of romance, but not overly done. I think the amount of romance was perfect for the story. So, if you are looking for a bit more suspense/mystery than romance, I would say Otherwise Engaged is your read.

Copy provided by Penguin via First-to-Read program

Rating:
1/2

eARC: Drawn Together by Lauren Dane

I received the opportunity to read Drawn Together by Lauren Dane. Let me give the back story to how I came about reading the story. Back in July I signed up with Penguins First to Read program which gives readers a chance to preview books that are coming soon from Penguin. I selected a couple of books I would be interested in reading and they would randomly select people to read. Honestly, I didn't think I had a shot. So, to my surprise I was selected to read Drawn Together.

I probably should go back and read the previous books to fully appreciate the story. However, I mange to read the story and wasn't too lost. Yeah, I might have had a better understanding of the other characters in the book. Hey, I have been known to jump into a middle of a series.

Anyway, I'm just going to focus on my thoughts of the story. Overall, I enjoyed the story. I enjoyed the relationship between Raven and Jonah. Yes, Jonah is a bit demanding. However he seem like the type of guy who goes after what he wants no matter what. Raven is a bit rough on the edges and doesn't let anyone in. Yet, Jonah manages to worm his way in Raven's life. So, they tend to have bumps along the way. I really liked how Jonah was there for Raven when she really need someone.

As I said, I manage to get through the book. Yes, Drawn Together does have some pretty hot, rough sex scenes. Not a bad story, and I actually liked when Raven called out Jonah's ex-wife and called her a whore. So, if you don't mind rough hot sex, you might enjoy Drawn Together.

Copy provided by Penguin

Rating:

The Submissive by Tara Sue Me

Yep, I read The Submissive by Tara Sue Me this weekend. Yes, I know that it use to be Fanfic. However, I had a friend say I should read this book, if I didn't like it she would reimburse me. After all she recommend the book. I thought, "hey sounds like a win to me." Let's be honest, I probably wouldn't have picked up the story, if the friend hadn't suggest the story.

So, The Submissive basically is about a librarian who wants to live a little more. So, she decides she wants to try BDSM. After all that is the first thing we all think of when we want to live on the edge. Anyway, Abby King puts in an application to dominant, Nathaniel West. Basically Nathaniel decides to take her on as his submissive. The story is mainly from her point of view as a submissive.

Actually, I enjoyed the story. Plus, it was a pretty quick read. The only downside is it's only her point of view and her feelings. Then again, the book title is The Submissive, so I just have to suck it up. Now I need to read The Dominant to get Nathaniel's point of view and feelings. The BDSM in the story wasn't like "oh my gosh I can't believe I'm reading this story", actually it was pretty light. I think it could have gone a lot more kinkier. I'm ok with how it turned out. I liked The Submissive, and it's up to you if you want to read the story. This isn't for everyone, and that's okay.

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The Secrets of Mia Danvers by Robyn DeHart

All right, I just finished The Secrets of Mia Danvers by Robyn DeHart, which happens to be the first book in Dangerous Liaisons series. Yes, there is danger in this story. I hope you all would expect that, since we find Jack the Ripper in the story.

We meet Mia Danvers who happens to be blind and living on the Duke of Carringtion's property. While traveling home late one night, Mia happens to stumble upon a murder and decides to tell the Duke.

Alex Foster, Duke of Carrington, doesn't need this on his plate. However, it has landed on his plate. He and Mia work together to figure out who is committing these murders.

I must say that I enjoyed the story and found it a little different. I love the fact that Ms. DeHart decided to use Jack the Ripper as the villian, since no one really knows who he happens to be.  You don't normally find that. Plus, you don't see too many heroines who happen to be blind and strong willed. Alex tends to put the family needs above his own and he's starting find that he doesn't want that happen in his life. When Mia and him come together it's like they complete each other, but unwilling to bend to find happiness. Alex feels duty bound, instead of following his heart. At the same time, he's trying to protect Mia from Jack the Ripper.

Here is the bottom line of the story: If you like a little mystery mix with your romance, you might enjoy The Secrets of Mia Danvers. Also if you are fancinated with Jack the Ripper, you find a winner in this story.

Copy provided by NetGalley

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On the Island by Tracey Garvis Graves

All right I started On the Island by Tracey Garvis Graves a few days ago. Normally this wouldn't be a book I would pickup, unless it was part a book club book. Which it happens to the April selection for HEA Book Club which is hosted by Harlequin Junkie. Everyone is welcome to the discussion of the book of the month. So, if would like to join the discussion On the Island on April 25th come join us. If don't get a chance to read it before then, it's all right it's a lot of fun to chat with others.

Anyways; enough about that the HEA Book Club, so let's get going on the book. For those who don't know anything about the book it's about Anna Emerson and T.J. Callahan who ended trapped on a deserted islands close to the Maldives. What should have been a fun adventure for Anna turned out to be a worst nightmare (to be honest anyone).

When I started the first chapter, I thought if you believed in omens you might have taken the signs not to go. However, if Anna and T.J., didn't go we wouldn't have had this book. Honestly, I thought the story was beautifully done.

When the book started Anna was 30 years old and T.J. was 16 almost 17, so as the story progress you saw the dynamics change of there relationship changed. I really thought  the author did an amazing job with them. I love how Anna and T.J. were able to keep their relationship as friends while he was still underage. I enjoyed how you watch their friendship blossom to something more as they got older. Especially, when there was no hope of making it off the island. I think it would be harder if they didn't have each other.

Seriously, a beautiful book about survival and hope. I laugh at parts and got choked up at others. By the end of the book I had tears streaming done my face. As I said, I don't know if I would have picked up this book on my own, but I'm glad I got a chance to read On the Island. I really loved the love between Anna & T.J. I think sometimes when you get thrown into a situation like that you are either live or die. T.J. and Anna decided to go against the odds to live.

Overall, amazing. So, if you are looking for a book on going against odds, I would suggest reading On the Island. Plus, this book is an amazing book for a book club selection, because there is so much to discussion on the topic of getting stranded on an deserted island. Honestly, I would suggest On the Island for any book club looking for a great read.

Copy provided by Plume

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Purchase Links:
Amazon ~ Barnes & Noble ~ Kobo ~ Book Depository

Taking A Shot by Jaci Burton

It would be a lie if I told you that I read this in a few days. I actually started Taking A Shot back in November, but things got a little crazy that month. Then December hit, so I just kept pushing this back. So, I made it my goal to finish this book. Plus, one of my friends has been waiting for me to finish the book and wondering what I thought of the story. After all,  she is the one who recommended the book. Granted the story line really intrigued me before she said, "YOU NEED TO READ THIS BOOK!" Needless to say, I finished the book and here are my thoughts.

What caught my attention of the story was the heroine, Jenna Riley, who runs a sports bar, but doesn't like sports. WHAT! Who doesn't like sports? Seriously, I'm not a huge fan of sports, but I still like sports.  So, her mission in life is to avoid any man who is involve in sports. Which limits her options if you really think about it, because there are so few guys who are not into sports.

Pro hockey player, Tyler Anderson sees Jenna and instantly attracted to her and is determine to have her. Jock mentality. Jenna is  a tad bit attracted to Ty, but she is bound to follow her cardinal rule about avoiding jocks. Yet that won't stop Ty from trying to get with Jenna.

You know this was a pretty good read. Even before I had my friend suggest this book, I did have my eye on the book (not because the cover was smoking hot, I really did want to read this book). Honestly, I'm not huge a hockey fan, but I still enjoy this book. I love the dynamics of Jenna and Ty relationship. I love the fact that both of them can't call it a relationship, but try to find other words to describe what have to other people. Yet others can see that it is more than what they want to admit. Then both of them live in the shadow of their  insecurities and afraid to admit them. Jenna who has always lived in the shadows of her super sport star brothers; then Ty who is afraid to get into a serious relationship, because his parents rocky relationship impacted his life.

Overall, Jaci Burton's Taking A Shot left me satisfy after I finished. Who doesn't like a hot cocky hockey player, who can be is a tad bit persistent in getting what he wants. Then you have the heroine who doesn't like a sports, yet seems to be attracted to a cocky hockey player. Not to mention this book has some steamy scenes, definitely keep you warm on a cold night. So, if you are looking for something to keep you warm and interested in a hot hockey player, you might want to checkout Taking A Shot by Jaci Burton. So, I leave you today and I hope y'all are keeping warm.

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Purchase Links:

~Amazon~

~Barnes & Noble~