Chosen Mate by Katie Reus (Review)

I finally got a chance to sit down and read  Chosen Mate by Katie Reus. First off, I have to say is you need to read Jaguar's Mate to understand where Leslie is coming from, and why Malcolm was handling her with kid gloves. At the same time try to let her know that he was interested in her, which she totally missed all the clues. As you read this quick little read, you see these two dance around each other while trying to figure out what was happening.

Like I said it was a quick read, and I repeat you are going to want to read Jaguar's Mate first, because they are somethings you are going to miss you don't. Overall, a pretty good read.

Copy provided by the author.

Rating:
4 Stars

InkSlinger PR Review + Giveaway: All Fired Up by Lori Foster

All Fired Up

Road to Love, 3

Lori Foster

HQN

November 19, 2019

He’s tantalizing trouble she can’t resist…

Charlotte Parrish has always wanted a certain kind of man: someone responsible, settled, boring. Bad boys need not apply. But when her car leaves her stranded and a mysterious stranger with brooding eyes and a protective streak comes to her rescue, she can’t deny how drawn she is to him. In town searching for family he’s never met, Mitch is everything she never thought she wanted—and suddenly everything she craves. 

Finding his half brothers after all these years is more than Mitch Crews has allowed himself to wish for. Finding love never even crossed his mind…until he meets Charlotte. She’s sweet, warmhearted, sexier than she knows—and too damn good for an ex-con like him. But when his past comes back to haunt him, putting Charlotte—and the family he’s come to care for—in danger, Mitch isn’t playing by the rules. He’s already surrendered his heart, but now he’ll risk his life.

My Thoughts:

InkSlinger PR Review: Twist of Fate by Jill Shalvis

We are beyond excited to be celebrating this release from Jill Shalvis with you today by participating in the blog tour! TWIST OF FATE is part of her Heartbreaker Bay series and it is releasing as part of 1001 Dark Nights. Check out the book trailer from the title below. Click here to grab your copy now.

 

About TWIST OF FATE:

From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Jill Shalvis comes a new story in her Heartbreaker Bay series…

When the one you want … 

Daisy doesn’t believe love is ever-lasting, so it’s ironic as hell that she parlayed a business degree into a wedding planning business. More ironic still is her latest job bringing her back into contact with the man who’d taught her that love can’t last.

Is the one you can’t have…

To say Diego has been taught the hard way to bury emotions is an understatement. But when he’s called home to help the brother he hasn’t seen or spoken to in years, that’s one thing. It’s another entirely to also come face to face with the first woman he ever loved.

First and only… 

Can love conquer all? Daisy’s learned to depend only on herself, and Diego is and always has been an island of one. And yet when they’re together, even when they’re bickering, still wary and haunted by memories of what was … it’s magic. The question is, how to find their way back to each other…? 


**Every 1001 Dark Nights novella is a standalone story. For new readers, it’s an introduction to an author’s world. And for fans, it’s a bonus book in the author’s series. We hope you'll enjoy each one as much as we do.**  

My Thoughts:

Angel in a Devil's Arms by Julie Anne Long (Review)

First off, I absolutely love this cover. Who doesn't love the bright color yellow dress. You look closer to Lord Bolt's expression, purely priceless. I mean it's a look that says, "Why are you dress, and there's a nice comfy bed with me in it?" In a sense the cover fits. For a good portion of the story we have Lucien and Angelique playing a cat and mouse game. They both want each other, but Angelique is trying not to cave to these feelings. There are parts in the story where I felt I probably read the first book in the series. It might be helpful, because Angelique and Delilah have a connected past. However, Angelique trying to keep her past hidden.

We have Lucien who has risen from the dead, and making the life of his father and his wife a living hell, or planning on it. I mean the Duchess of Brexford is a hateful woman, and it's time to put her in her place. The Duke is a pretty weak man to beginning with. Good thing Lucien didn't inherit that from his father (the Duke).

Overall, Angel in a Devil's Arms was a pretty good. I mean it starts out with a plot of revenge, but motives change as Lucien developed more character. I love that Angelique was able to move on from her past. I can't wait to see what happen with the other characters in The Grand Palace on the Thames.

Copy provided by Avon

Rating:
4 Stars

BIshop's Queen by Katie Reus (Review)

I finally got a chance to read Bishop's Queen. Oh my goodness this story was amazing once I was able to dive into the story. Okay in the previous book, we saw Evan and he wasn't doing too well. He basically broke off with Isla. He did it pretty callously.

Isla is ready to move on, even though she still loves Evan.  Evan knows he made a big mistake when he dropped Isla, but he's willing to win her back. He realizes that she might be endanger, and he hopes he can keep her safe.

Oh my goodness, I didn't expect Bishop's Queen to be so much better than Bishop's Knight. This story can be read as a standalone, but why would you. You find out things that happen in the first book, and I hope that we get the answer in the next book about the final Bishop. I wonder if they are all completely tied together in a weird coincidence. This story has build up and had me on the edge of my seat till the end. There were a couple of times I thought it was someone else than the person who was the bad guy of the story.

Copy provided by author.

Rating:
5 Stars

Wildfire Review + Excerpt + Giveaway: Taming My Whiskey by Melissa Foster

🔥🔥 HOT NEW RELEASE 🔥🔥

Taming My Whiskey by New York Times Bestselling author Melissa Foster is LIVE! One-click today!!

Buckle up for a wild ride as Dixie Whiskey finds forever love in TAMING MY WHISKEY, a funny, sexy, and emotionally riveting standalone romance by New York Times bestselling author Melissa Foster. The perfect love story for those who enjoy fiercely loyal and insanely sexy alpha heroes, smart, sassy heroines, strong family bonds, bikers, babies, and more!

In TAMING MY WHISKEY…

Being the princess of the Dark Knights motorcycle club doesn’t come with a white knight or a fairy-tale castle, and that’s okay, because Dixie Whiskey has never needed a man to slay her dragons or make her whole. Even so, after watching each of her brothers fall in love, she’d sure like a shot at her own happily ever after. But with the Dark Knights watching over her and the only man she’s ever wanted out of reach, she’s not holding her breath.

As the launch of Silver-Stone Cycles’ biggest line approaches, Jace Stone is left needing a favor from the one woman who holds the power to take him to his knees. He knows when it comes to sinfully gorgeous and sharp-tongued Dixie Whiskey, he must stay on his toes and keep his walls firmly in place. But Jace needs her for his business—and Jace Stone always gets what he wants.

When the tall, gruff, and darkly handsome biker presents an opportunity that any other woman might see as the chance of a lifetime, Dixie turns him down flat. But Jace is determined, and he pulls out all the stops—sending Dixie’s overprotective brothers up in arms. Rebellious Dixie takes a stand—going after the freedom, and the man, she’s always wanted. One scorching kiss leads to an undeniable connection, but Jace isn’t looking to be tied down, and Dixie refuses to play second fiddle. Can two untamable hearts find forever love in each other’s arms?

My Thoughts:

Sexy Dare by Carly Phillips (Review)

I got a chance to read Carly Phillips latest release Sexy Dare. You can't go wrong with a Dare. When they find the right girl they will protect them to the end. Which brings us to Jason Dare and Faith Lancaster. Since there are a lot of Dares he's one of the New York Dare.

Anyway, Jason has no interest in getting into a long tern relationship. He swears off relationship, and we learn the reason why. He believes pretty strong about this even after meeting Faith. Yet his protective instincts kick in when he meets his curvaceous girl. Faith is adorable, and lovable, also she makes candy. She slowly whittle's down his wall.

Sexy Dare is a pretty fast read. Yet it packs heat quickly, and you want these two to get together. I love that Faith isn't a curvaceous and not a stick. I love that the cover even matches the description in the book. Jason loves the way she is. The ending comes quickly. I'm curious about how his business partners are going down, because they were just like Jason. It should be good.

Copy provide by author via RockStar PR

Rating:
4 Stars

Wrapped Up in You by Jill Shalvis (Review)

Let me start with I'm so excited Kel O'Donnell gets his own book. Some of you might be going, "Hey this is the first time we are seeing Kel." I would say you are wrong. We actually meet Kel in another series, and I felt that he needed his own book, but then that series ended. Yep, I was sad to see that happen. Yet, Jill was able to bring him to San Francisco and he gets his own story. YAY!!!!!!

Kel is definitely a sexy sherif in another series, and he's still sexy. It's been a while since I read that series, but I always felt needed to have a girl. I totally forgot that he had a few bad things happen to him. Anyway, he's kind of like damage goods emotionally. However, he's willing to take a chance on Ivy. Okay, Ivy owns the taco truck that everyone loves. She's been included into the group, but feels like an outsider. That's partly her fault. She continues to keep up a wall, because she's afraid they aren't going like her background. As the story goes on Kel starts to breakdown the walls and is slowly falling in love with the girl, and the say can be said about Ivy.

Anyway, the story seems like everything is going to be picture for these, but trouble seems to creep back into Ivy's life, and she's not sure what to do. Towards the end I felt bad for Ivy, because you get the full extent of her past courtesy of her brother. Which makes Kel doubt Ivy, but that stems from his past. I really thought this was going to be a sappy read that didn't have any real drama, but I had to wait for the drama. Drama is part of life, and it would have been a pretty dull story if there wasn't something that push these two apart and back together. I hope that we can get a story for Ivy's brother. I think that would be an interesting read. Maybe a spinoff, maybe not. Wrapped Up In You was a pretty good read.

Copy provided by Avon.

Avon Spotlight + Review + Excerpt: When the Marquess Was Mine by Caroline Linden

When the was Mine 

The Wager of Sin, 3

Caroline Linden

September 24, 2019

In the game of love…

Georgiana Lucas despises the arrogant and cruel Marquess of Westmorland even before learning that he’s won the deed to her friend Kitty’s home in a card game. Still, Georgiana assures Kitty the marquess wouldn’t possibly come all the way to Derbyshire to throw them out—until he shows up, bloody and unconscious. Fearing that Kitty would rather see him die, Georgiana blurts out that he’s her fiancé. She’ll nurse the hateful man back to health and make him vow to leave and never return. The man who wakes up, though, is nothing like the heartless rogue Georgiana thought she knew…

You have to risk it all

He wakes up with no memory of being assaulted—or of who he is. The bewitching beauty tending him so devotedly calls him Rob and claims she’s his fiancée even as she avoids his touch. Though he can’t remember how he won her hand, he’s now determined to win her heart. But as his memory returns and the truth is revealed, Rob must decide if the game is up—or if he’ll take a chance on a love that defies all odds.


My Thoughts:

Wildfire Spotlight + Review: The Boyfriend Contract by Victoria James

THE BOYFRIEND CONTRACT

Victoria James

Entangled Amara

September 23, 2019

Emily Birmingham has had it up to here with men.

Growing up with an overbearing father and then her brother inherits everything she’s worked her whole life to build. Now she’s living in her grandmother's dilapidated house in the middle of nowhere Canada, jobless, and dealing with the most annoyingly sexy contractor on the planet. Exactly when did her life become an anti-Hallmark movie?

Cooper Merrick learned the hard way that love is definitely not worth the risk. He’s happy running the family contracting business alongside his well-meaning but overly-opinionated brothers...happy enough until polished and perfect Emily enters his world. Nothing prepared him for the ways she turns his life upside down and reaches the parts of himself he’s closed off from the world.

But when he finally gets up the nerve to ask Emily out, she says her next date will need to come with a written contract and some very particular ground rules. Yeah, it sounds crazy, but why does he find himself wanting to sign on the dotted line?

My Thoughts:

Wildfire Cover Reveal: Awk-Weird by Avery Flynn

AWK-WEIRD

Ice Knights, 2Avery Flynn

Entangled Amara
Release Day OCT 14

Dark Memento by Katie Reus (Review)

I got a chance to read Dark Memento by Katie Reus. Dark Memento is the beginning to her new series Verona Bay, which was interesting read. I liked that this story kept you guessing on who might be the killer. Which makes me wonder what direction the series will be going. This feels like the stories are going be more like standalone with common ties to an area.

Anyway, I liked Lucas Jordan. He was sweet and a good guy. Then we have Serenity Washington single mom, survivor, and the target. While reading the story Katie had me guessing who it could have been, and I didn't know who it was until we reached in the end.

Overall, a pretty good, and fairly quick read. Yes, Dark Memento will be keeping you guessing until you draw closer to the end.

Copy provided by author.

InkSlinger PR Spotlight + Review: Take it Off the Menu by Christina Hovland

Take It Off the Menu

Mile High Matched, 3

Christina Hovland

August 23, 2019

Saying "I Do" has never been such a mess.

Marlee Medford just got dumped. Yes, things have become ho-hum in her longtime relationship, but she was two days away from walking down the aisle with the man she thought was her forever when he called it off. Convincing herself that they'd be able to reignite their spark once the wedding craziness settled? That was easy. Suddenly finding herself without a fiancé? Not so much. Marlee needs to regain control of her life, and a weekend away with her friends is a solid first step.

One of Denver's best up-and-coming chefs, perpetual bachelor Eli Howard, isn't into serious relationships--especially the kind that ends in marriage. As if to prove his point that they aren't worth the trouble, the wedding he was supposed to be catering just fell apart. Feeling oddly protective of the jilted bride--his little sister's best friend--his weekend plans now involve a trip to Sin City with her group of friends. But it looks like he had a bit too much fun in Vegas when he wakes up married...wedding night included.

Marlee's attempts at getting her life back together are failing miserably. Her ex-fiancé is taking the house, her chihuahua is intent on a love affair with Eli's sneakers, and she's now accidentally hitched to the guy who can't even say the word marriage. With their quickie annulment denied, Eli and Marlee just have to hang tight until the divorce goes through. It's just a little divorce amongst friends, what's the worst that could happen?

My Thoughts:

What a Difference a Duke Makes by Lenora Bell (Review)

What A Difference a Duke Makes was a fabulous read. It was one of those reads that I had to make myself stop reading to sleep. I had a lot of fun reading this title. We have Mari Perkins who would be a cross between Mary Poppins and Maria from the sound of music, with a dash of country bumpkin. She's not cut out to be a governess to a Duke's kids, but then no one is. The Duke of Banksford kids are rambunctious, and they have scared off every governess. However, Mari isn't a governess, but who has to know. SHE NEEDS THIS JOB.

Edgar Rochester is a Duke in trade. Oh the scandal. He doesn't really have time for his kids, and he needs the help. When Mari pops in his life he's not sure on how to feel about it, but something magical starts to happen.

Overall, I had a lot of fun reading What a Difference a Duke Makes. Mari was a fun character with lovability, and wanting to help these children. Edgar was a good father, but a little distracted with work.

Rating:
5 Stars

Dare Me Tonight by Carly Phillips (Review)

I guess I just need to dive into my thoughts. We have have Sienna Dare the youngest of the Dare clan. She felt that she was responsible for the destruction of the families, but that was her father's fault. However, she still feels that way. Then we have Ethan Knight. Ethan has his own baggage, after all when we first we meet him he found his wife dead from an overdose, and secrets come out.

Anyway, it was a fairly quick read with these two. They have an instant attraction, but don't want to cause waves with Sienna's family. However, it all comes crumbling down, and Ian becomes the big bad brother. Yet, more things happen in the story. Some of the things that happen make me wonder about somethings.

Overall, this was a pretty good read with Ethan getting a happy ending and a good life. He deserves it, and Sienna gets a pretty happy life too.

Copy provided by author

Rating:
4 Stars

Avon Spotlight and More: The Wallflower Wager by Tessa Dare

The Wallflower Wager
Girl Meets Duke, 3
Tessa Dare
Avon
August 13, 2019

They call him the Duke of Ruin.

To an undaunted wallflower, he's just the beast next door.

Wealthy and ruthless, Gabriel Duke clawed his way from the lowliest slums to the pinnacle of high society—and now he wants to get even.

Loyal and passionate, Lady Penelope Campion never met a lost or wounded creature she wouldn’t take into her home and her heart.

When her imposing—and attractive—new neighbor demands she clear out the rescued animals, Penny sets him a challenge. She will part with her precious charges, if he can find them loving homes.

Done, Gabriel says. How hard can it be to find homes for a few kittens?

And a two-legged dog.

And a foul-mouthed parrot.

And a goat, an otter, a hedgehog . . .

Easier said than done, for a cold-blooded bastard who wouldn’t know a loving home from a workhouse. Soon he’s covered in cat hair, knee-deep in adorable, and bewitched by a shyly pretty spinster who defies his every attempt to resist. Now she’s set her mind and heart on saving him.

Not if he ruins her first.

The Thoughts I Had:

Avon Spotlight and More: One Fine Duke by Lenora Bell

One Fine Duke
School for Dukes, 3
Lenora Bell
Avon
July 30, 2019

USA Today bestselling author Lenora Bell returns with her third book in the sexy School for Dukes series.

Ready.

Raised in the countryside by her overprotective uncle, Miss Mina Penny’s dream of a triumphant London season is finally here. She determined her perfect match long ago: Rafe Bentley, the wickedest rake of them all. There’s only one very large, very unyielding obstacle: Rafe’s brother Drew, the reclusive Duke of Thorndon.

Aim.

This was supposed to be simple. Duke goes to London. Duke selects suitable bride. Love match? Not a chance. But when Drew meets Mina, she complicates everything. How can a lady armed with such beauty and brains fall for his irresponsible degenerate of a brother? Drew vows to save her from heartbreak and ruin, no matter the cost.

Desire!

But Mina is no damsel in distress. She’s daring, intuitive, passionate…and halfway to melting Drew’s cold heart. And although Mina thought she knew exactly what she wanted, one breathtakingly seductive kiss from Drew changes everything. Now Mina must decide between long-held dreams and dangerous new desires. Could her true destiny lie in the arms of a duke?

Excerpt:

AudioReview: This Heart of Mine by Susan Elizabeth Phillips

This has been a long time coming. I have been procrastinating on writing this review, and I have listen to this story a few times too. This is the final one I had to read for the Chicago Stars. I would recommend reading them in order, and not go the same route as me. However, if you do you would be alright, still not recommended.

We finally get Molly Somerville in This Heart of Mine, and she's all grown up. I guess it has been a bumpy road. She's suffering a bout of writers block for her bunny Daphne. She heads up to the cabin and that's where the trouble lies.

Kevin Tucker the young quarterback that is finally getting his chance to be the star. However, he can't seem to stay out of trouble. Basically, is told to go to the cabin and stay low. Again trouble arrives there.

Molly has always had a crush on Kevin, but she's always been invisible. Molly isn't invisible after her cringe worthy thing. Seriously CRINGE-WORTHY. They go their separate, but force into a marriage. Tragedy happens, and they are force to deal with it. At this time, they get to know one another, and love officially blooms. Yay, Daphne is starting to come out to play again.

I loved This Heart of Mine. It was a fun listen even with the cringe moment. I laughed and cried, and went on a roller coaster ride with Molly and Kevin.

Rating:
5 Stars

The Me I Used to Be by Jennifer Ryan (Review)

I wasn't sure about The Me I Used to Be, because I heard of lot mix reaction. However, I decided to take a chance on the story. Let me tell you the first part of the story ripped me to shreds. I didn't expected to need a box of tissues for the first 10 chapters of the book. Yes, grab that box, because you are going to need them to make it through the first half part of the story.

Evangeline is one tough cookie. She had to be strong for her family, and the sacrifice she made on their behalf. Her family was cruel, but they assumed the worst of her. With her strong will to survive, she was able to make new life for herself. Before she could do that, she had to conquer the past.

I absolutely loved Evangeline strength of character, and how she grew as a person. She also helped her family to grow and rebuild.

There's a lot going on in The Me I Used to Be. We have a young woman trying to take down the issue that caused her fall, and rebuild from that. We also see the conquering heroine find happiness in the end. She totally deserves it after what she been through. Definitely can be a book club selection. So much to talk about, especially when you have a protagonist like Evangeline. Groups can talk about why they think it was important for her to go to jail. A lot to talk about. The main focus of the story is Evangeline's growth, but there's romance that pop up in this story, and a little suspense. Jennifer Ryan does like to add a little of that to her story. Overall, a pretty good read.

Copy provided by Harper Collins

Rating:
4 1/2 Stars

Spotlight + Excerpt: Brazen & the Beast by Sarah MacLean

Brazen and the Beast
Bareknuckled Bastards, 2
Sarah MacLean
Avon Romance

July 30, 2019


New York Times Bestselling Author Sarah MacLean returns with the next book in the Bareknuckle Bastards series about three brothers bound by a secret that they cannot escape—and the women who bring them to their knees.

The Lady’s Plan

When Lady Henrietta Sedley declares her twenty-ninth year her own, she has plans to inherit her father’s business, to make her own fortune, and to live her own life. But first, she intends to experience a taste of the pleasure she’ll forgo as a confirmed spinster. Everything is going perfectly…until she discovers the most beautiful man she’s ever seen tied up in her carriage and threatening to ruin the Year of Hattie before it’s even begun.

The Bastard’s Proposal

When he wakes in a carriage at Hattie’s feet, Whit, a king of Covent Garden known to all the world as Beast, can’t help but wonder about the strange woman who frees him—especially when he discovers she’s headed for a night of pleasure . . . on his turf. He is more than happy to offer Hattie all she desires…for a price.

An Unexpected Passion

Soon, Hattie and Whit find themselves rivals in business and pleasure. She won’t give up her plans; he won’t give up his power . . . and neither of them sees that if they’re not careful, they’ll have no choice but to give up everything . . . including their hearts.

Excerpt: 

Darkness Rising by Katie Reus (Review)

We have finally come to the end of the Darkness series. We have seen a lot happening in this series. We have seen couples find love, and bad things happen from time or time. However, we have come to last chapter in this series with Darkness Rising. With a title like that it doesn't seem like it's ending, and in a sense you are right and wrong. We do see end of a chapter of things happen here, and the beginning of something knew. You know what that means, yep spin-off. Which I'm happy, because it's sad to see these guys go, but we get to see something new happen with Reaper and Greer.

Finally Greer finds a mate, but it's a powerful dragon that happens to be one of the ancients. Which totally conflicts with her healer side. Reaper never went for healers before he went to hibernation. He tended to stick with powerful warriors. However, there's something different about Greer.

Anyway, Darkness Rising is the end to a series, and like I said it's beginning to a new series. You get a taste of where it's going to be in the story. Things are about to change and you see that. However, it does closes the Darkness books nicely. I can't wait to see what the new series will entail. However, the world is going to change. Exciting stuff.

Copy provided by author.

Rating:
4 Stars

Bishop's Knight by Katie Reus (Review)

I have to say that this is a pretty good story to a new trilogy. We have it all in Bishop's Knight. Seriously, we start off with Evie Bishop who was CIA, but has retired. However, she gets sucked back in to help a friend. She's trying to figure out what's going on with her brothers, which is a great way to tell you there is more to come. The icing on the cake is past love interest. Yes, we have a second chance romance. If that wasn't enough we have the element of danger.

There is a lot packed into this one story, but it has you wanting to know more. We get a glimpse of Evie's brothers in here. We know that one brother is pretty badly injured, and the other is wanted for murder. She's trying to save a friend which puts her life in jeopardy. Of course, she goes to the one person that she knows and trust, Dylan Blackwood. He could totally toss her on her butt, and never look back. The history, but he wants to help.

Like I said, it's a pretty good lead to the trilogy. It makes me wonder if what happens in this book also tie to Evie's brothers situation. I can't wait for the rest of the books to come. So, if you are looking for romance and suspense, look no further and try Bishop's Knight.

Copy provided by author.

Rating:
4 Stars

To Tame A Wild Cowboy by Lori Wilde (Review)

Okay, I actually read this story last month, and I have been procrastinating on my thoughts. I've been doing that lately. Anyway, I did like To Tame A Wild Cowboy. I thought it was a pretty good story. We have Tara Alzate who is in the process of trying to adopt this sweet little baby girl. However, there is one problem they don't know who the father is. So, they go on the search and low and behold it's Rhett Lockhart. This can go in so many direction.

Rhett is definitely a no-strings attach kind of guy, but now he finds out that he's a father. Now he has a decision to make. Should he stay or should he go? He finds Tara mighty fine. However, Tara isn't too sure about Rhett, after all she use to babysit Rhett when he was younger. All she remembers is the wild child he use to be and his reputation doesn't help him. We also find that Tara is caring around some baggage that doesn't help Rhett's case to getting cozy with Tara.

This isn't an instant love kind of read. They aren't really sure if they should like each other. However, they do burn pretty hot for one another once the walls come down. I enjoyed the story. It was a nice building kind of read.

Copy provided by Avon.

Avon Review + Excerpt: Say No to The Duke by Eloisa James

SAY NO TO THE DUKE
The Wildes of Lindow Castle
Eloisa James
Avon Romance
6/25/19

Could she possibly refuse a duke’s hand—in favor of a sardonic, sinful rake?

Lady Betsy Wilde’s first season was triumphant by any measure, and a duke has proposed—but before marriage, she longs for one last adventure.

No gentleman would agree to her scandalous plan—but Lord Jeremy Roden is no gentleman. He offers a wager. If she wins a billiards game, he’ll provide the breeches.

If he wins…she is his, for one wild night.

But what happens when Jeremy realizes that one night will never be enough? In the most important battle of his life, he’ll have to convince Betsy to say no to the duke.

My Thoughts:

Some Like it Scandalous by Maya Rodale (Review)

Where to beginning with Some Like It Scandalous? It was an interesting read. In someways it was a take on The Ugly Duckling, Daisy isn't the prettiest girl out of the Swan girls. However, Daisy doesn't rely on her looks, no she relies on her brains. Plus, she has a promising path set for her if she make it to spinsterhood. Yet, there's something lurking in the dark that her mother doesn't want to fully reveal yet she strongly urges Daisy to make a match with her archenemies Theodore Prescott the Third. A pretty boy with too much time on his hands and finds himself in a lot of trouble. His father basically tells him he needs to marry Daisy.

Gotta love when a pretty face meets a smart girl. However, Theodore has more brains than he lets on to believe. The more time they spend in their fake engagement, the more they realize they were completely wrong about each other.

Daisy has a beauty that society doesn't realize, and that's partly Theodore's fault. The name he came up with has stuck like glue, but Daisy doesn't let it faze her. When Theodore gets to know Daisy better, he realizes he did her a disservice all those years ago. Of course he wants to make amends for his action.

Maya Rodale has a wonderful story with Some Like It Scandalous. On the cover it has a quote from Sarah MacLean about being "Smart, Sexy, Fun!", and I think that's the best way to sum up the story. Daisy character is smart, and she doesn't realize she has a sexiness. When she matches wit with Theodore it's pretty fun. Even though she's the main brains of the operation, you would be surprised to find that Theodore has more brains that his pretty face lets on. Deep down he has a caring heart, even though he does come off a bit shallow at the beginning.

Copy provided by Avon

Rating:
5 Stars

Wildfire: Spotlight + Review: The Lying Hours by Sara Ney

The Lying Hours

How to Date a Douchebag, 5

Sara Ney 

May 7, 2019

ABRAHAM DAVIS—Honest Abe to his friends—IS IN OVER HIS HEAD...

He’s a fixer and a do good-er. The all-knowing, resident "grandfather" on the wrestling team who everyone relies on to fix their problems. His teammates go to him for everything; advice, homework, or when they need a sober driver at three in the morning--whether he likes it or not.

Abe’s current mission is easy: mend his roommates broken heart by helping him find a girlfriend on the LoveU app--without getting caught in the lie...

SKYLAR GABRIEL. IS. OVER. IT.

Over her bad grades. Over her meddling older brother and his two best friends. And over dating douchebags. What she wants to know is: where have all the nice guys gone?

She longs for a handsome, sweet, and honest guy who can make her laugh. In one last ditch effort to prove that he exists—Skylar turns to LoveU.

On her worst day, Skylar has no filter (it’s a miracle she hasn’t been ditched mid-date).

On her best, she’s as wholesome, and sweet, as pie.

On Thursday? She matches with Abraham Davis’s roommate.

Skylar Gabriel is falling for the wrong guy—she just doesn’t realize it yet.

Why?

BECAUSE ABE DAVIS IS A LIAR.

My Thoughts:

Cover Reveal: The Lying Hours by Sara Ney

The Lying Hours

(How to Date a Douchebag #5)

By Sara Ney

Release Day – MAY 9th

Chasing Vengeance by Katie Reus (Review)

We have finally come to the end of Redemption Harbor in Chasing Vengeance. I have to say that it was a pretty good read for the last book in the series. In the previous book we meet Layla who has terrible luck with men. However, she feels a strong connection with Xavier, but he has friend zone Layla knowing what she's been through. Yet, Xavier's past comes to haunt him and possibly hurt Layla.

A fairly quick read, we get to see the full crew in action. Truth be told this series isn't really a standalone kind of read, each of these stories kind of build upon one another. As I said that we met Layla in the previous book. She was rescued cause she was in desperate help in the last book. Plus, she kind of needed a happy ending. Overall, a pretty good ending to the series.

Copy provided by author

Rating:
4 Stars

Seducing the Billionaire's Brother by Marquita Valentine (Review)

Last week I had a chance to read Seducing the Billionaire's Brother, and let me say I seriously thought I had read this book. Then I realize I read the first two books. Yes, Conner is mention in the previous books, because he's kind of the family screw up. If you haven't read the previous books, you don't need to worry. Yes, we do see Conner's older brother being his arrogant self. Trust me he's pretty arrogant in the previous books. Now the main focus, Conner.

Like I said Conner is pretty much a screw up, but he has one constant which is Faith. Faith and Conner have been best friends forever. When one or the other is in trouble the other will come and rescue them. In Seducing the Billionaire's Bother, we see each of them trying to keep the friendship in the friend zone, but life keeps drawing to pursue more.

Writing a friends-to-lovers troupe is always a delicate balance. It can go horribly wrong or wonderfully right. In this case Seducing the Billionaire's Brother had a wonderful balance. There were a couple of areas where it was woefully slow, but the story manage to pick up the pace. Overall, the story was a pretty good read, but there were some areas I wish a little more detail was added to the story. Like I said it was a pretty good read. I love the affection Conner and Faith have one to another. If you are in need of a friends to lovers read, you might give this a try.

Copy provided by author.

Rating:
4 1/2 Stars

The Boyfriend Experience by Carly Phillips & Erika Wilde (Review)

Have you ever looked for a book that mashed up The Wedding Date and Meet the Fockers, and eventually made it's on story? No! Now you have with The Boyfriend Experience. The Boyfriend Experience manages to mash up those two movies and eventually weaved itself into its own story.

We meet Eric Miller who is the ultimate playboy who ends up getting sucked into his friend's app with his own profile. Thinking that he would call the whole thing off, but is intrigued by Evie Bennett. Now evening is looking for someone to replace her ex-boyfriend for a family reunion. It's pretty easy to see where it's similar to The Wedding Date, but Eric isn't a male escort. Now you wonder how this is anything like Meet the Fockers, well you have to meet Evie's parents and it becomes crystal clear.

Yes, you are going to find an insta-love read with this one, but once at the family reunion it has its funny points. Oh my goodness, I love Evie's parents. At the family reunion you do start to see the story morph into it's own story. You will find a sappy ending, but you will be wanting that sappy ending. A fairly quick read with The Boyfriend Experience, but it's a fun fill read. So, if you are in the mood for something fun, heart-warming, and possible sappy tears here and there, you might give The Boyfriend Experience a try.

Copy provided by author via RockStar PR

Author's Pal Review + Excerpt + Giveaway: Mr. Misunderstood by Sara Jane Stone

Mr. Misunderstood

Sara Jane Stone

March 4, 2019

Rule #1: Maintain Control.

You think you know me. The cars, the penthouse, the reputation for delivering women to that “Oh, yes, Gavin” moment… Yeah, I’m the bad boy billionaire who drives your fantasies. 

But I’ve traveled a long road to get here. And I played by the rules—the ones I wrote to guarantee I didn’t return to whom I was before. 

Until now. The pictures, the story—it’s my past coming back to haunt me. I’ve lost control. And to get it back, I need to change the story.

So I asked my best friend and neighbor for help. Kayla agreed—if I support her growing pack of four-legged misfits. 

My life is under control again.

Only I’m falling for my best friend. Now, my New York City apartment is full of rescued pups, my country retreat looks more like an animal sanctuary, and Kayla’s guarding her heart. 

And I’m running out of time to prove the girl next door belongs with the billionaire.

My Thoughts:

Spotlight + Review + Excerpt + Giveaway: Devil's Daughter by Lisa Kleypas

Devil's Daughter 

Ravenels, 5

Lisa Kleypas

Avon 

February 19, 2019

Although beautiful young widow Phoebe, Lady Clare, has never met West Ravenel, she knows one thing for certain: he’s a mean, rotten bully. Back in boarding school, he made her late husband’s life a misery, and she’ll never forgive him for it. But when Phoebe attends a family wedding, she encounters a dashing and impossibly charming stranger who sends a fire-and-ice jolt of attraction through her. And then he introduces himself...as none other than West Ravenel.

West is a man with a tarnished past. No apologies, no excuses. However, from the moment he meets Phoebe, West is consumed by irresistible desire...not to mention the bitter awareness that a woman like her is far out of his reach. What West doesn’t bargain on is that Phoebe is no straitlaced aristocratic lady. She’s the daughter of a strong-willed wallflower who long ago eloped with Sebastian, Lord St. Vincent—the most devilishly wicked rake in England.

Before long, Phoebe sets out to seduce the man who has awakened her fiery nature and shown her unimaginable pleasure. Will their overwhelming passion be enough to overcome the obstacles of the past? Only the devil’s daughter knows…

My Thoughts: 

Audiobook Review: Nobody's Baby But Mine by Susan Elizabeth Phillips

Truth be told, I actually listened to Nobody's Baby But Mine last year, but I felt that should probably re-listen to the story before I wrote my thoughts. Which I'm glad. I love that Susan Elizabeth Phillips writes about strong, smart women. They definitely make an impression. Especially Dr. Jane Darlington. Now Jane has hit a rough patch in life. She felt that she was probably too smart for her own good. As a child, she was a bit precocious, which isn't necessarily a bad thing. However, she didn't have anyone to guide her, so when she hatched this hair brain idea about finding a dumb jock she thought she was doing some good to her unborn child. She decided that Cal Bonner would be the ideal candidate. Boy was she wrong that account.

Anyway, when they first get together is pretty awkward. I didn't realize how awkward it was until the second time I heard the story.
Well, Jane's plan goes out the door when Cal finds out she's having his baby. He feels duty bond to marry Jane, but has no desire to make a real marriage. Oh boy, was the beginning so rocky. However, we see Cal start to develop feelings for Jane, but he doesn't know how to handle it. Not pretty. There's usually a lot going on in SEP books, and this is where we meet Kevin Tucker. Gotta love Kevin Tucker. The story is pretty entertaining once we getting going.

SEP books can make you have your emotions go all over the place, and Nobody's Baby But Mine is no exception. You are going to be all over the place with this story, but by the end you have all the feel goods you need. If you are in the mood of finding a crazy story that leads you to the path of love you might want to try this one.

Since this was an audiobook, Anna Fields does and amazing job reading this. She's one of my favorite narrators.

The Spainard's Untouched Bride by Maisey Yates (Review)

Last month I read The Spaniard's Untouched Bride by Maisey Yates. I did enjoy this fast pace story. We have Camilla Alvarez who lost her father, and home in a swoop. She decides to masquerade as a boy needing a job. Definitely resourceful. Matias Navarro acquires the Camilla's rancho. He's about to get everything he wants, but his brother swoops in and steals his bride. With that swoop, Matias is about to lose everything to his brother until he realizes Camilla is a girl. She's not gorgeous, but she can do.

Anyway, things quickly escalate, after all this is a quick read and we have to get to the ending. Is he going to let ambition takeover or will love save the day? The story is a little slow at the beginning, because he seriously doesn't realize Camilla is a girl. However, it does pickup and gets interesting when his brother's drama enters the picture. By the end of the story, I enjoyed these two bumpy ride, and wanted to find out with Matias ex-fianance and his brother. Overall, a pretty good quick read.

Jaguar's Mate by Katie Reus (Review)

In Jaguar's Mate, this quick little novella has a lot jam packed into the story. One of the things I like about this story is you don't have to read the previous book. Seriously, you are good to go, because the story focuses on Sapphire and Eli's relationship. He wants her, and she believes she's curse. It takes them saving her friend's daughter to realize she really wants him.

Yes, we have a love story, but we also have a serious issue that needs to be dealt with before they can have any kind of relationship. Yep, this a quick read, and can be done within a few hours. Great for just needing something to read, but not ready for a novel kind of read. You have love and action going on in Jaguar's Mate. So, if you are in need a quick little read look no further.

Copy provided by author

Rating:
4 Stars

Cover Reveal: Junk Mail by Kendall Ryan

It all started with a sexy selfie.

Texted to the wrong number.

Oops.

Not my finest moment—but I have nothing to be ashamed of.

She thought I was no better, and I quote, than the knuckle-dragging douche-bags she was never dating again.

It was a stupid dare from a girl I’d met online, but since she’d given me a fake number, I didn’t feel bad that my interests were suddenly focused elsewhere—on the fiery and sharp-tongued, Peyton that I found myself sparring with over text for the rest of the evening.

The following day, my case of mistaken identity came back to bite me in the banana.

When I strolled into the office, I was introduced to Peyton as the new client I needed to win over. The Peyton, in case you're not tracking.

And let’s just say she had my full attention.

Brains? Check.

Beauty? Oh yeah.

And the best part? She hated me on sight.

Dear God, do I love a challenge.

Let the games begin.

Avon Spotlight + Excerpt: Playing for Keeps by Jill Shalvis

Playing for Keeps
Heartbreak Bay, 7
Jill Shalvis
January 22, 2019

If you’re planning on falling in love…

When it comes to the confident, charismatic Caleb Parker, Sadie Lane feels the spark—the kind that comes from rubbing each other the wrong way. She’s yoga pants, he’s a suit. She’s a tattoo artist, he’s a straight-laced mogul. But after they accidentally co-rescue an abandoned dog from a storm, Sadie sees a vulnerable side to the seemingly invincible hottie.

you’d better be sure…

Caleb doesn’t do emotions. Growing up the underdog, he’s learned the hard way to build up an impenetrable wall. Perfect for business. Disastrous for relationships. He’s never worried about it before—not until he finally gets behind Sadie’s armor and begins to fall.

… someone is there to catch you.

Both guarded and vulnerable, Sadie and Caleb are complete opposites. Or are they? Shocked at their undeniable connection, can they ever admit to wanting more? That all depends on what they’re each willing to risk.

Excerpt:

Covert Games by Katie Reus (Review)

Let me state I did like Covert Games, but I wasn't in love with the story. Covert Games, to me seem like it had a slow start. I know I'm one of the few that feels this way, but I did. I also had a hard time with Leighton and Lucy. I didn't feel them. Hey that happens. I struggle with most of the story, it wasn't until the end that I started to feel a connection. The action did pick up towards the ending that was pretty good. A massive crap storm hits which made story for me.

Anyway, Covert Games wasn't a favorite for me. It worked for others. I would recommend reading the other stories in the series, before jumping into this one. They connect a lot to each other. Like I said others loved this story, and I'm ready to move on to the next story in the series. Katie is a pretty good writer, so I won't let this one stop me.

Copy provided by author.

Rating:
3 Stars

Take Me Again by Carly Phillips (Review)

Early this week I read Take Me Again by Carly Phillips, and I have to say this was probably the best read so far this year. We have Sebastian Knight who is the ultimate playboy, and Ashley Easton who is immune from his charms. She was burn when she was younger and doesn't want to get burned again. The ultimate playboy has to work extra hard to proving to her that he's more than a playboy. However, there's more to the story, because we are starting a new series. We find secrets reveal and things that shouldn't have happen happened.

Carly builds a pretty good plot in the story along with a romance rekindle between Sebastian and Ashley. The story helps to build to next story. Yes, we do get to see Sebastian and Ashley building something of a permanent relationship, but we also get subplot. Overall, I was pleased with this story. Yes, we have some hot steamy things happen between Ashley and Sebastian, but we also see them working together. I can't wait to read more from this series. Definitely a strong start to the new series. So, you need a hot read with a strong storyline, Take Me Again won't disappoint.

Copy provided by author via RockStar PR

Rating:
4 1/2 Stars