Avon Romance Spotlight + Review + Excerpt: Cajun Crazy by Sandra Hill

Cajun Crazy

Cajun, 11

Sandra Hill

Avon 

November 28, 2017

Welcome back to New York Times bestseller Sandra Hill’s Cajun country, where love heats up the Louisiana bayou . . .

Former Chicago cop Simone LeDeux is back home in the bayou, sharing a double wide in the Pearly Gates trailer park to help her mama recover from surgery. Her one rule: no Cajun men. Loved and left by too many double-crossing Cajuns, Simone puts bad experience to good use by opening Legal Belles: an agency that uncovers cheating spouses.

Suddenly she’s confronting a two-timer about to swindle his wife out of millions and antagonizing New Orleans bigwigs over an illegal sex club. Adam Lanier learns of the dangerous game Simone is playing . . . and the sexy single dad comes to her aid. Known as a rogue in the courtroom and a player in the bedroom, the ragin’ Cajun has Simone triply on guard.

With their crazy chemistry, danger on their trail, and infamous LeDeux relative Tante Lulu working her magical matchmaking, the bayou has never been this steamy.

My Thoughts:

Forever Romance Review + Excerpt + Giveaway: The Bachelor Contract by Rachel Van Dyken

The Bachelor Contract

Bachelors of Arizona 

Rachel Van Dyken

Forever Romance

November 28, 2017

A second-chance romance from the #1 New York Times bestseller of The Bet, Matchmaker and Elite series!

She's everywhere.

Ex-wife.

Love of his life.

The last person in the world he wanted to see...ever.

And now that he's working beside her every day, he can't escape her. Her scent, glimpses of her smile, even the tension in the air that makes his body hum with the kind of need he'd only experienced with one person-all of it is driving him over the edge.

Brant Wellington was certain of three things:

Alcohol wasn't going to solve this.

He really was losing his F-ing mind.

And his gorgeous ex-wife was going to be the death of him.

My Thoughts:

Sourcebooks Spotlight + Review + Excerpt + Giveaway: Third Son's a Charm by Shana Galen

Third Son's a Charm
Survivors, 1
Shana Galen
Sourcebooks Casablanca
November 7, 2017



Ewan Mostyn thinks a job as a duke’s daughter’s bodyguard will be easy—but Lady Lorraine has a few tricks up her sleeve that spark an undeniable passion

Fiercely loyal to his friends and comrades, Ewan Mostyn is the toughest in a group of younger sons of nobility who met as soldiers and are now trying desperately to settle back into peaceful Society. Ewan trusts his brawn more than his brains, but when he’s offered a job watching the Duke of Ridlington’s stubbornly independent daughter, he finds both are challenged.

Lady Lorraine wants none of her father’s high-handed ways, and she’ll do everything in her power to avoid her distressingly attractive bodyguard—until she lands herself in real trouble. Lorraine begins to see Ewan’s protectiveness in a new light, and she can only hope that her stoic guardian will do for her what he’s always done—fight for what he loves.

My Thoughts:

Release Spotlight + Review + Giveaway: I'll Be Home for Christmas by Jen McLaughlin

I'll Be Home for Christmas

Out of Line, 5.5

Jen McLaughlin

November 21, 20017

Nothing could make me leave my family alone for Christmas—except maybe my father-in-law. I swore to Carrie I’d make it home in time, and I’m keeping that promise. One way or another…

I’ll be home for Christmas.

Some promises can’t be kept, and sometimes things just don’t work out. Finn is my world, my life. But when my worst nightmares come true, I’m faced with the impossible truth. Without him…

I'm lost.

My Thoughts:

Author's Pal Review + Excerpt + Giveaway: How to Woo a Wallflower by Christy Carlyle

How to Woo a Wallflower

Romancing the Rules, 3

Christy Carlyle

Avon Impulse

November 14, 2017

An Unconventional Wallflower…

Clarissa Ruthven was born to be a proper lady, but she’s never wanted to live up to the expectations her late father set. Determined to use her inheritance to help the less fortunate women of London, she’s devastated to learn that she won’t be inheriting anything until she marries, a fate she has no interest in. Unwilling to let go of her plans, Clary works at Ruthven Publishing for Gabriel Adamson, a man who’s always hated her. She’s always returned the feeling, but as she begins to turn her family’s publishing company upside down, she finds herself unable to forget her handsome boss.

Never Follows the Rules…

Gabriel Adamson believes in order. He certainly doesn’t believe Clary should be sticking her nose in the publishing company, and she definitely has no business invading his every thought. But Gabe soon finds he can’t resist Clary’s sense of freedom or her passionate kisses and he starts to crave everything she’s willing to give him.

Especially When It Comes to Love… 

When Gabe’s dark past comes back to haunt him, he’ll do anything to make sure that Clary isn’t hurt…even if it means giving up the only woman he’s ever loved.

My Thoughts:

Audiobook Review: Roulette by Megan Mulry

I did not even complete this book. I got up to Chapter 7, and basically clapped my hands and said I'm done. I would have liked to said that it wasn't bad, but then again, I didn't even finished. I had a problem with Miki. I can tolerate a lot, but she was supposed to be a 30 year about to get 10 year at the university she was working. Yet, she read more like an early 20 year old finished with college trying to figure out what to do next. Yeah, not cutting it. I probably would have cut it a little longer had she not cheated on her boyfriend who just asked her to move in. Seriously, she had to talk herself into saying yes. Miki should said no and broke it off. Yet here she is in Russia, and a hot French playboy and she decides to say, "What happens in Russia stays in Russia." Cheating is never the answer. I couldn't hang anymore after that, so I stopped.

Since this was an audiobook, I was listening to Neva Navarre who wasn't bad, but I didn't like Roulette. I think she would do a pretty good job with younger heroines, I might give the Neva a try on another story.

Since I'm in the minority on disliking Roulette, it didn't work for me. Others loved this story, but I'm wasn't a fan of Miki to beginning with. Sleeping with another guy, because he was hot and a one time thing. Yeah, I'm all for getting out a relationship before sleeping with some else. This is where I stand on this story.

Rating:
1 Star

Rock Solid by Carly Phillips & Erika Wilde (Review)

Can I say that Connor Prescott is absolutely lovable. Oh my gosh talk about a good decent guy. We finally get Connor's story. He's the relationship kind of guy, but he broke his code for one night. Honestly, he wanted to have more, but the girl ghost. Jump ahead three years, Katie Kaswell stumbles upon Connor's inform and decides to call him and let him know that he's a daddy.

Yes, I do love a good secret baby/child story, and Rock Solid is a pretty good one. I think it's because Connor was willing to take responsibility. Katie kind of bugged me at times. She couldn't see that Connor was willing be everything she didn't know she wanted. I'm glad that she had a best friend to tell her, dude you are being stupid. She based a lot of her insecurities from the way she was raised. Another heroine who would have benefited from counseling.  The moments of Connor and Val (his daughter) adorable.

Overall, I liked Rock Solid. Adore Connor, Katie had to warm up to, and Val, who doesn't love an adorable kid. So, if secret child is your read and need it to be quick Rock Solid gotcha cover.

Copy provided by author via RockStar PR

Rating:
4 Stars

InkSlinger PR Review + Giveaway: Deal Breaker by Tara Leigh

Deal Breaker

Billionaire Bosses, 2

Tara Leigh

Swerve

November 14, 2017

Nixie Rowland is having a bad day. Rushing home to drown her sorrows in ice cream and reality television, she decides to take a shortcut to the subway where things take a turn for the worst. But Nixie’s bad luck doesn’t end there—the white knight who comes to her rescue is none other than the Dark Knight of Wall Street, a cocky Manhattan mogul whose ego barely fits inside his penthouse. To her horror, Nixie discovers the sizzling attraction between them is off the charts, and rising fast. Spending the night in his bed does nothing to lower the heat… And everything to set her heart on fire.

Nash Knight doesn’t have room in his life, or his heart, for anything beyond one-night stands or casual flings. And he certainly doesn’t make a habit of rescuing damsels in distress. Except that this particular damsel slips beneath his armor, the vulnerability she covers with a false show of bravado hitting him somewhere deep. Nixie is everything he never wanted… And exactly what he needs.

With Nixie on the run from a controlling ex, and Nash trying to salvage a business deal at risk because his conquests in the bedroom are overshadowing his wins in the boardroom, there’s one simple solution for them both: a marriage in name only. But when lust becomes love, will their untamed emotions be a deal breaker?

My Thoughts:

Author's Pal Spotlight + Review + Giveaway: Dirty Games by Samanthe Beck

Dirty Games

Topical Temptation, 4

Samanthe Beck

Entangled Brazen

November 13, 20017

For six weeks, she’s all his....

A five figure fee. A private villa at an exclusive tropical paradise. Absolute compliance. Top tier celebrity trainer Luke McLean demands all of the above, plus strict adherence to his zero bullshit policy. Especially when faced with six short weeks to whip a spoiled starlet into leading lady shape.

Quinn Sheridan suddenly has half the time she anticipated to turn herself into an action hero for the role of her career. Luckily, her agent calls in a secret weapon, but the demanding, drop dead gorgeous hardass fails to understand SHE’S the client. She has no problem taking direction, but Luke’s definition of cooperation feels more like complete and utter submission. And she’s tempted to give it to him...

My Thoughts:

Forever Romance Review + Giveaway: Once Upon A Maiden Lane by Elizabeth Hoyt

Once Upon a Maiden Lane

Maiden Lane, 12.5

Elizabeth Hoyt

Forever

November 14, 2017

A stand-alone novella from New York Times bestselling author Elizabeth Hoyt!

Miss Mary Whitsun is far too intelligent to fall for the rakish charms of a handsome aristocrat. But when the gentleman in question approaches her in a bookshop, mistaking her for his fiancée, Lady Johanna Albright, the flirtatious encounter only raises more questions. Could Mary, a servant raised in a St Giles orphanage, actually be Lady Joanna's long-lost twin sister? If so, Mary has been betrothed since birth---to the rakishly handsome artistocrat himself . . .

Henry Collins, Viscount Blackwell, is far too intrigued by Mary to let her go so easily. He's drawn to her sharp mind, indomitable spirit, and the fiery way in which she dismisses him---ladies simply don't dismiss Lord Blackwell. But as Mary makes her first hesitant steps into society, she can't help but wonder if she truly has a place in Henry's world---or in his heart.

My Thoughts:

Blog Tour Spotlight + Review + Excerpt + Giveaway: An Ex for Christmas by Lauren Layne

An Ex for Christmas

Love Unexpectedly

By: Lauren Layne

Releasing November 7, 2017
Loveswept

Blurb
She’s making a list—and checking it twice. But is there a nice guy among all her naughty exes? The New York Times bestselling author of Blurred Lines returns with a charming friends-to-lovers rom-com.

When a psychic tells spunky, superstitious Kelly Byrne that she’s already met her true love, she becomes obsessed with the idea of tracking him down before Christmas. Kelly immediately writes up an “Ex List” and starts contacting old boyfriends to figure out which one is the one. When her college sweetheart rolls into town, Kelly convinces herself that they’re meant to be. The trouble is, sparks are flying with someone she’s never given a chance: her best friend, Mark.

Mark Blakely has watched the guys on Kelly’s list break her heart, and he’s not looking forward to watching them do it all over again. Mark’s always been there for her, but the timing’s never worked out for their relationship to be something more. Now, just as Mark is ready to move on, the sexual tension between them is suddenly off the charts. With Christmas morning around the corner, he just hopes Kelly will wake up and realize that everything she wants has been right in front of her all along.

My Thoughts:

Audiobook Review: The Care and Feeding of Stray Vampires by Molly Harper

About six years ago, I stumbled upon a Molly Harper book, How to Flirt with a Naked Werewolf. Never heard of this author, but a couple of things kind of screamed my name: 1) I was on a werewolf kick at that time. 2) It was on sale. 3) I had a gift card to use. So, I made my purchase, and it was a smashing good time. All I knew was I fell in love with Molly's writing style. Now flash forward to present day, I needed to beef up my Goodreads goal, and the best way is through audiobooks. I happen to have The Care and Feeding of Stray Vampires already on my audible account, I figure I need something entertaining. Best decision ever made. I started to listen to this title and realize dude, I forgot how much I love Molly Harper's books. Granted I have only read a couple, but still a rocking good time. Which I need to get more Molly Harper books.

Anyway, Iris Scanlon is a daywalker. A concierge to the undead. Iris is a fun character; she's sassy, sarcastic, lively, and at times has inappropriate humor. Seriously, like the best kind of heroine in a story, when she stumbles upon Cletus Calix (Cal). Now Cal is her polar opposite. A condescending vampire that believes humans are way below him, but he needs Iris's help. He has a bit a trouble trying to get help, after all she's just human. These two are great together. It takes a little while for Cal to warm up to Iris. I mean Iris is a spitfire and can a be little much to take in.

The Care and Feeding of Stray Vampires had me hanging on to every word. Molly sure knows how to make a girl laugh out loud. Definitely a good time read. Since this was an audiobook, the narrator was Amanda Ronconi. By the way, she did an amazing job with the book. I love how she read Iris. Amanda brought Iris's sass to life, and she even made Cal seem so disdainful. I love how she read The Care and Feeding of Stray Vampires, that I had to listen to the story again. Seriously, that good.

Totally loved The Care and Feeding of Stray Vampires. I would totally recommend for the escape, and even going for the audible version.

Rating:
5 Stars

Forever Romance Spotlight + Excerpt + Giveaway: No Other Duke Will Do by Grace Burrowes

No Other Duke Will Do

Windham Brides, 3

Grace Burrowes

Forever

November 7, 2017

One of Amazon’s Top Romance Picks for November

"Compelling, sympathetic characters and a rare blend of passion and humor result in another exquisite gem from a master of the genre. Gorgeously done."―Library Journal, starred review

Julian St. David, Duke of Haverford, is barely keeping his head above water in a sea of inherited debts. Though he has a long-term plan to restore the family finances, his sister has a much faster solution: host a house party for London's single young ladies and find Julian a wealthy bride.

Elizabeth Windham has no interest in marriage, but a recent scandal has forced her hand. As much as she'd rather be reading Shakespeare than husband-hunting, she has to admit she's impressed by Julian's protective instincts, broad shoulders, and, of course, his vast library.

As the two spend more time together, their attraction is overwhelming, unexpected... and absolutely impossible. With meddling siblings, the threat of financial ruin, and gossips lurking behind every potted palm, will they find true love or true disaster?

Excerpt:

InkSlinger PR Cover Reveal + Excerpt +Giveaway: Deal Breakers by Tara

Deal Breakers 

Billionaire Bosses,  2

Tara Leigh

Swerve

November 14, 2017

Nixie Rowland is having a bad day. Rushing home to drown her sorrows in ice cream and reality television, she decides to take a shortcut to the subway where things take a turn for the worst. But Nixie’s bad luck doesn’t end there—the white knight who comes to her rescue is none other than the Dark Knight of Wall Street, a cocky Manhattan mogul whose ego barely fits inside his penthouse. To her horror, Nixie discovers the sizzling attraction between them is off the charts, and rising fast. Spending the night in his bed does nothing to lower the heat… And everything to set her heart on fire.

Nash Knight doesn’t have room in his life, or his heart, for anything beyond one-night stands or casual flings. And he certainly doesn’t make a habit of rescuing damsels in distress. Except that this particular damsel slips beneath his armor, the vulnerability she covers with a false show of bravado hitting him somewhere deep. Nixie is everything he never wanted… And exactly what he needs.

With Nixie on the run from a controlling ex, and Nash trying to salvage a business deal at risk because his conquests in the bedroom are overshadowing his wins in the boardroom, there’s one simple solution for them both: a marriage in name only. But when lust becomes love, will their untamed emotions be a deal breaker?


Excerpt:

Cover Reveals: Out of Line Books by Jen McLaughlin

GUYS! This is not a drill. I repeat, this is NOT a drill!!

via GIPHY

Some of you might remember the OUT OF LINE series (rich girl goes to college, falls for "bad boy" surfer, finds out he's not what he seems). Some of you might not (and that's okay, too, because this book can be picked up without it). Those of us who remember it, get ready to squeal because despite Jen McLaughlin saying she was done writing books for Finn and Carrie...

THEY'RE BACK!

Avon Spotlight + Review + Excerpt: Holiday Wishes by Jill Shalvis

Holiday Wishes 
Heartbreaker Bay, 4.5
Jill Shalvis
Avon Impulse
November 7, 2017


It’s Christmastime again in Heartbreaker Bay!

When Sean O’Riley shows up at the Hartford Bed & Breakfast for his older brother’s bachelor weekend, he’s just hoping to make it through the weekend. What he’s not expecting is to come face to face with the woman he lost his virginity to a decade ago—a woman he’s never really forgotten.

The last time Lotti Hartford saw Sean, she told him she loved him while he said nothing. Now, ten years later, she’s just looking for a good time. For once, she wants to be the wild and free one, and Sean – the good time guy – is the perfect candidate.

But as the weekend continues, Sean realizes that after a lifetime of being the hook-up king, he’s ready to find happily-ever-after, and he wants it with Lotti. But will she open her heart to him again? As Christmas sweeps through the little B&B, he can only hope love and magic are in the air.

My Thoughts:

Mistletoe Me, Baby by Katie Reus (Review)

Mistletoe Me, Baby is a sweet little holiday read. This time it's Nolan O'Conner chance at love. Anyway, Nolan has been in love with Miranda Flores since she arrived in town. However, she friend zone Nolan, since she was taking care of her nephew. So, Nolan basically biding his time to make a move, and he finds his opportunity when Miranda asks him to be her fake fiancee. Seems like a lucky break for Nolan. Nolan figures it would be a perfect time to show Miranda that they are meant to be together. Sounds so simple, but life throws a few curve balls along the way.

Mistletoe Me, Baby is a quick little holiday read. For the most part everything works out. Kind like a Hallmark channel kind of read. Yes, Nolan and Miranda do get their happy ever after, but there are few bumps like I said. So, if you are in the mood for a quick holiday read, Mistletoe Me, Baby might be calling your name.

Copy provided by author

Rating:
4 Stars

Audiobook Review: Never Seduce a Scot by Maya Banks

Never Seduce a Scot was AMAZING! I couldn't stop listening to the story. So, we have two clans that are at war with each. The king decides to intervene and force the Montgomery and Armstrong clans to a blood treaty. Also marrying Graeme Montgomery to Eveline Armstrong. Basically Graeme believes that his wife to be is touched, not all there, so he fears that he's not going to have a proper marriage. However, there's nothing wrong with Eveline other than she's can't hear. Yet, she didn't want her family to know that she was fine, because she didn't want to force to marry Ian McHugh. She felt that she would be better off with Graeme.

Talk about getting your heart ripped to shreds, Eveline is hated, because of her last name. An Armstrong in the Montgomery territory never was a good thing. Even though she couldn't hear, she could understand the awful things that were said about her. However, I love that she was so strong, when the women tried to be catty and spiteful. It took a long time for Graeme to realize that she was being tormented. Such a strong lass, and I absolutely love Eveline. Even when faced the danger she was absolutely strong.

I did love Graeme too. I love how he grew to love his wife, and seeing how precious she was. Even though she couldn't hear, he never underestimated her. Eveline was smart and beautiful, and eventually Graeme's people learned to love her.

Totally loved Never Seduce a Scot. Definitely a revisit kind of read. Since it was an audiobook, the narrator Kirsten Potter did a fantastic job. She absolutely had me spellbound from the first chapter to the last. She did an amazing job with all the characters, and made it a pleasure to listen. I totally would listen to another story if she was the narrator.

Rating:
5 Stars

Audiobook Review: Kiss an Angel by Susan Elizabeth Phillips

Okay, there are a lot of mixed reviews on Kiss an Angel by Susan Elizabeth Phillips. However, I found myself liking this story. We have Daisy Devreaux she finds herself in big trouble, the only way out is to marry the guy her father picked out for her, Alex Markov. I love Daisy, because she's so sweet and bit flighty. However, she has a good heart. I felt extremely bad for her. She tried to make the best out of a crappy situation. Boy was it crappy. She was willing to give her marriage a real go, even though her husband was going about it like an asshat.

Alex has no desire to marry, but Daisy's father basically forced his hand into the situation. I mean her father basically gave Alex a chance to have a real life, so he called in the huge favor. Now he's stuck with a flighty wife. However, Daisy isn't flighty, she's stubborn. When Alex gives her a chance to pack her things, she decides to tough it out. It wasn't easy for her, because everyone thought she was a thief. Yeah, circus people don't like thieves, but she toughed it out.

Seriously, I felt so bad for Daisy. She even fell in love with her husband, even though he didn't deserve her love. Overall, Kiss An Angel had my emotions all over the place. There were a few characters I wanted to deck out. They would totally deserved it. It did take Alex a long time to appreciate Daisy's qualities.

Like always Anna Fields does an amazing job at narrating the story. She's one of my favorites to listen. She seems to bring each of the characters to life, and she makes listening to the story enjoyable.

Rating
4 Stars

The Right Kind of Rogue by Valerie Bowman (Review)

Talk about getting heart palpitations, The Right Kind of Rogue wasn't an easy read.  Seriously, we have I worried for Meg Timmons throughout the story. I had cause for worry, because she enlisted the help of Lucy Hunt. No good ever comes when she gets in the thick of things, but does she causes some havoc on Meg's life. Luckily it all works out for Meg, but there were some nail biting instants.

We have Meg who has been in love with Hart Highgate since she was 16. A long time to be in love with a guy. Anyway, she decides to put aside her dreams of Hart realizing she's the woman for him, and decides to find a husband. However, Lucy gets involve to help her win Hart, because there is hope that he loves her too. Hart decided it was high time to find the perfect wife, and help Meg find a husband too. This is where the nail biting comes into play. This was rough seeing Hart fight his feelings, but wasn't quite sure if he had feelings for Meg. Seriously, it was stressful. Plus, it gets a little ugly at this time.

Anyway, Valerie is masterful at making a story come to life, even one that makes you anxious you hope that everything goes according to plan. Yes, you will find bumps along the path in the story, because there's always bumps when Lucy gets involve. The Right Kind of Rogue is like a Romeo & Juliet kind of story. Fortunately, no one ends up dying. It's a happier ending that story. Like I said the road to true love is a little bumpy, and Hart's a bit stubborn. He's kind of a jerk towards Meg. I'm surprise no smacked him upside the head, which would have been perfectly acceptable. Valerie brings out another fun read in the Playful Brides books.

Copy provided by author

Rating:
4 1/2 Stars

Forever Romance Review + Excerpt + Giveaway: Totally His by Erin Nicholas

Totally His

Opposites Attract, 3

Erin Nicholas

Forever

October 31, 2017

Sophia Birch loves nothing more than the spotlight--as long as she's playing a part. A theater geek from an early age, Sophia now runs a little hole-in-the-wall playhouse that feeds her passion... even if it sometimes makes it hard to feed herself! And then one night it all nearly goes up in smoke. Desperate to save the only copy of an irreplaceable script, Sophia rushes back into the burning building.

Police officer Finn Kelly knows crazy when he sees it. And a woman running back into a burning building definitely qualifies as crazy. She also happens to be incredibly sexy. But when he finally finds her ruffling through drawers and refusing to leave, his only option is to carry her out over his shoulder....and then decide whether to arrest her. 

My Thought:

InkSlinger PR Audio Review + Excerpt : The Learning Hours by Sara Ney

THE LEARNING HOURS

How to Date a Douchebag, 3 

By Sara Ney

September 26, 2017

He's not a douchebag; but that doesn't stop his friends from turning him into one.

MY FRIENDS WANT ME TO GET LAID.

So much so that they plastered my ugly mug all over campus, in bold printed letters:

Are you the lucky lady who's going to break our roommate's cherry?
Him: socially awkward man with average-sized penis looking for willing sexual partner. You: must have a pulse. He will reciprakate with oral. Text him at: 555-254-5551

The morons can't even spell. And the texts I've been receiving are what wet dreams are made of. But I'm not like these douchebags, no matter how hard they try to turn me into one.

THIS ISN'T THE KIND OF ATTENTION I WANT.

One text stands out from hundreds. One number I can't bring myself to block. She seems different. Hotter, even in black and white.

However, after seeing her in person, I know she's not the girl for me. But my friends won't let up--they just don't get it. Douchebags or not, there's one thing they'll never understand: GIRLS DON'T WANT ME.

Especially her.

My Thoughts:

Forever Romance Excerpt + Giveaway: Back In The Game by Erin Kern

Back In the Game

Champion Valley, 2

Erin Kern

Forever

October 31, 2017

Stella Davenport wasn't made for small-town life. Sure, teaching ballet in Blanco Valley, Colorado, is great, but she longs for the chance to perform in a big city. Stella swore she'd never let anything get in the way of her dream-until sexy, broad-shouldered Brandon West walks back into her life. Stella is determined to resist him, even if arguing with Brandon is sexier than any foreplay.

For Brandon, it's always been just him and his son, Matt. Knowing that love only leads to heartbreak, he isn't looking to expand his family any time soon. Stella, with her long, gorgeous legs and infectious laugh, is a breath of fresh air he didn't even know he'd been missing. But when she's offered her dream job in Chicago, will he be willing to put his heart on the line?

My Thoughts: 

InkSlinger PR Review + Excerpt + Giveaway: Ride Wild by Laura Kaye

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Laura Kaye brings you the third novel in her Raven Riders Series, RIDE WILD. A sexy contemporary romance series, and a spin-off from Laura’s Hard Ink world, about a different kind of motorcycle club with a protective mission. The Raven Riders Series takes you on an adventure and kicks it into overdrive! RIDE WILD is the hot and emotional story of a sexy single father wild with grief over the death of his wife several years before and the strong survivor he hires to be his nanny. Order your copy of RIDE WILD today!

About Ride Wild (Raven Riders #3, 10/31/17)

Brotherhood. Club. Family. They live and ride by their own rules. These are the Raven Riders...

Wild with grief over the death of his wife, Sam “Slider” Evans merely lives for his two sons. Nothing holds his interest anymore—not even riding his bike or his membership in the Raven Riders Motorcycle Club. But that all changes when he hires a new babysitter.

Recently freed from a bad situation by the Ravens, Cora Campbell is determined to bury the past. When Slider offers her a nanny position, she accepts, needing the security and time to figure out what she wants from life. Cora adores his sweet boys, but never expected the red-hot attraction to their brooding, sexy father. If only he would notice her...

Slider does see the beautiful, fun-loving woman he invited into his home. She makes him feel too much, and he both hates it and yearns for it. But when Cora witnesses something she shouldn’t have, the new lives they’ve only just discovered are threatened. Now Slider must claim—and protect—what’s his before it’s too late.

My Thoughts:

The Duke by Katharine Ashe (Review)

I'm seriously in the minority here, but I wasn't a fan of The Duke. Yes, I know. It's rough even admitting this fact. I totally struggled with the story. Honestly, I struggled with Amarantha. At the beginning of the story she's extremely naïve about life and love. She has high hopes about her marriage to Reverend Paul Garland. Pompous jerk in my opinion, and we don't see a lot of him. Even after she meets Gabriel Hume, she still set on her course to married Garland. Seriously, Gabe was a better match for Amarantha. However, she's extremely stubborn. She's stubborn throughout the story. She's a hard person to like, because she's unwilling to bend to anyone. Which is fine, but when it's not working towards her favor it's time to give in a little.

LOVE GABE! Seriously, this guy was willing to take Amarantha even after rejecting him. He saw something special about her. He even tried to get her to married him. Then his cousin was being an idiot and thought he was doing the guy a solid with his lies. Nope. Not one bit. Anyway, Gabe is willing to help Amarantha out no matter what. He even tries to convince her to marry him again. However, she's stubborn.

I struggled with Amarantha's stubbornness through most of the book. I think we had an inkling of what her marriage was like with the good Reverend I might have been a little more forgiving on her stubbornness when it came to Gabe. I truly struggle with this story. I got to a point that I probably should have stopped reading the story and DFN. However, I kept going with the pursuit that it was bound to improve. So, I wanted to strangle Amarantha, totally wanted to take Gabe in my arms and tell him to move on. Yet, the heart wants what the heart wants. He's a strong man for that. Of course the cover is absolutely amazing. It was a miss for me, but I'm part of the minority. I hope that it works for you.

Copy provided by Avon via Edelweiss

Rating:
2 1/2 Stars

The Charmer by Avery Flynn (Review)

At the end of The Negotiator I was super excited that Sawyer's brother was going to get his own story. It was pretty much told in the epilogue. I mean Hudson was fun loving, easy going, complete opposite of his brother. So, it sounded like it would be a win. However, The Charmer was a bit slow at the get go. I found myself a little detached from the story at times. Eventually, the story did pick up.

Anyway, we have Hudson Carlyle who is the charmer, but he also harbor's a secret from his family. He has a secret life that he promised his father he wouldn't do at all. So, he's living with the guilt of keeping the secret that he's a pretty awesome painter. Then we have Felicia Hartigan who has been mooning over her brother's best friend, and she feels this is the year to get him. Basically, Hudson decides to try to help her get the guy she wants, but secretly keep her to himself in the long run. Sounds like a fixin' of a good fun romantic comedy. However, it kind of comes up short for me. Like I said it took a little time to get into the story. I enjoyed Hudson, and for the first time in his life he's kind of at a lost when the girl doesn't fall to his feet. Felicia is has her mind single to the one man she longs for, but slowly realizes that he's not right for her. So, she's face with the challenge of trying to get the right man for her, but he's kind of dense about it. Granted, she did kept saying that she's after the other guy, so yeah I could see why he would be in disbelief.

Anyway, The Charmer was an okay read. It was cute in the ways of romantic comedies. There are some hot little scenes. However, I'm actually looking forward to reading Felicia's brother's best friend's book, now that one sounds promising, at least I hope it happens. Seriously, the two people can't stand one another. Anyway, Hudson and Felicia are adorable together once everything is said and done.

Copy provided by Entangled via NetGalley

Rating:
3 1/2 Stars

Harper Collins Review + Excerpt: Pupcakes by Annie England Noblin

Pupcakes

Annie England Noblin

William Morrow Publishing

October 10, 2017

Sit! Stay! Speak! author Annie England Noblin’s novel takes one woman starting over, adds an aging pug named Teddy Roosevelt, and proves the power of a well-baked dog treat.


All she wants is a settled-down life.

What she gets is a dog—and a whole new normal . . .
There he stood in the doorway: overweight, depressed and nearly homeless—a pug named Teddy Roosevelt. Teddy was Brydie Benson’s latest problem, arriving on top of her messy divorce and sudden move. Brydie needed a place to start over, so this rent-free home seemed a great idea. She just never counted on Teddy, or his owner, the Germantown Retirement Village’s toughest customer, Pauline Neumann.

And because rent-free doesn’t mean bills-free, Brydie gets a night-shift job at a big-box grocery. Whoever guessed there were so many people who wanted baked goods after midnight?

Then, she gets an idea—why not combine her baking skills with her new-found dog knowledge? And so her store Pupcakes is born. Along with a new start comes a possible new love, in the form of Nathan Reid, a local doctor with a sassy Irish Wolfhound named Sasha. And as fall turns to winter, and then to Christmas, Brydie begins to realize that life is a little bit like learning a new recipe for puff pastry—it takes a few tries to get it just right!

My Thoughts:

Author's Pal Review + Excerpt + Giveaway: Her Duke at Daybreak by Wendy LaCapra

Her Duke at Daybreak

Mythic Dukes, 1

Wendy LaCapra

October 17, 2017

Infamous for his pedigree of madness and murder, the reclusive Duke of Ashbey believes he cannot feel until a mysterious woman unlocks a world of sensation in a single, shattering moment of connection. He casts a desperate bid for more.

Recent widow Alicia Stone has long been reviled as the chief impediment to a love affair that captured the nation’s imagination. Publicly, she settled for respectability’s cold comfort, but, secretly, she longs to experience what she never found with her famous husband—uninhibited passion.

When a devilish duke proposes a discreet three-night assignation, Alicia shocks herself by accepting. But will their explosive union cost them both far more than they bargained?

My Thoughts:

Forever Romance Review + Excerpt + Giveaway: Duke of Desire by Elizabeth Hoyt

Duke of Desire

Maiden Lane, 12

Elizabeth Hoyt

Forever

October 17, 2017

A LADY OF LIGHT
Refined, kind, and intelligent, Lady Iris Jordan finds herself the unlikely target of a diabolical kidnapping. Her captors are the notoriously evil Lords of Chaos. When one of the masked-and-nude!-Lords spirits her away to his carriage, she shoots him…only to find she may have been a trifle hasty.

A DUKE IN DEEPEST DARKNESS
Cynical, scarred, and brooding, Raphael de Chartres, the Duke of Dyemore, has made it his personal mission to infiltrate the Lords of Chaos and destroy them. Rescuing Lady Jordan was never in his plans. But now with the Lords out to kill them both, he has but one choice: marry the lady in order to keep her safe.

CAUGHT IN A WEB OF DANGER…AND DESIRE
Much to Raphael’s irritation, Iris insists on being the sort of duchess who involes herself in his life—and bed. Soon he’s drawn to both to her quick wit and her fiery passion. But when Iris discovers that Raphael’s past may be even more dangerous than the present, she falters. Is their love strong enough to withstand not only the Lords of Chaos but also Raphael’s own demons?

My Thoughts:

Forever Romance Review + Excerpt + Giveaway: Most of All You by Mia Sheridan

Most of All You

Mia Sheridan

Forever

October 17, 2017

"Heartbreaking...inspiring, uplifting and raw..." ― RT Book Reviews, A 5-star Gold Pick

A broken woman . . .

Crystal learned long ago that love brings only pain. Feeling nothing at all is far better than being hurt again. She guards her wounded heart behind a hard exterior and carries within her a deep mistrust of men, who, in her experience, have only ever used and taken.

A man in need of help . . .

Then Gabriel Dalton walks into her life. Despite the terrible darkness of his past, there's an undeniable goodness in him. And even though she knows the cost, Crystal finds herself drawn to Gabriel. His quiet strength is wearing down her defenses and his gentle patience is causing her to question everything she thought she knew.

Only love can mend a shattered heart . . .

Crystal and Gabriel never imagined that the world, which had stolen everything from them, would bring them a deep love like this. Except fate will only take them so far, and now the choice is theirs: Harden their hearts once again or find the courage to shed their painful pasts.

My Thoughts:

Second Chance Girl by Susan Mallery (Review)

A couple of days ago I finished Second Chance Girl by Susan Mallery. I actually wanted to read this story, because cover is soooo adorable. However, the story was an all right read. We have Carol Lund, who was a bit of a downer. After awhile you kind of get tired of her saying she's not so special, and the boy next door isn't going to ever be in love with her. Then we have the player next door, Mathias Mitchell. He has many issues they all stem from his family. He's a bit of commit phobic, and this is the reason he's friend zone Carol. However, he's trying hard to fight his feelings for Carol. Actually, I liked Mathias a lot. Also in the story we follow Carol's sister and the Duke. I actually like their storyline a lot better than main story line. I kind of wish the story focused more on Violet and Ulrich; oh well.

Like I said it wasn't a bad read. I felt a little down as I was reading Carol's head. However, I did like her interaction with Millie, the giraffe. I also liked how they were trying to get Millie some friends that was sweet of them all. Anyway, Second Chance Girl was an all right read to me. I think the town is a bit adorable, so I'm willing to continue on with the series.

Copy provided by Harlequin via NetGalley

Rating:
3 Stars

Maybe This Christmas by Jennifer Snow (Review)

I finally finished Maybe This Christmas, and it was an all right read. I liked the romance between Emma and Asher. I'm not a friends to lovers kind of person. They started off as friends, then they added with benefits. Let's be honest that always works out in the best. Fortunately, they did progress to something more, but it took some time. Emma wanted to move out the benefits to real relationship, Asher didn't want to ruin a good thing. Good thing Emma had a busybody sister. By the way, I wanted to deck her sister throughout the book. SERIOUSLY! DECK HER!

Emma's sister bothered me, I had to stop reading a couple of times because of her sister. She was bitch, and she belittle her sister about her choices in life. I personally think she was a little jealous, but that's my opinion. I think her sister should have apologized to her, but oh well. However, if her sister didn't try to intervene in her life Asher would have missed out on something special.

Overall, Maybe This Christmas, wasn't a bad read. I did like most of the story, except the parts when her sister came into the picture. I'm surprise I still have molars. I did like Asher and Emma, they were cute together.

Copy provided by Forever via NetGalley

Rating:
3 1/2 Stars

The Scoundrel and the Lady by Robyn DeHart (Review)

First off, let say that I love that dress. Oh my goodness, the cover totally caught my eye. I also love the background. Gorgeous! Anyway, I did enjoyed The Scoundrel and the Lady. We meet Merritt Steele at the beginning. He kind has a disdain for the ton, so it's ironic that he inherits an earldom. However, he's not going to quit his business, but now he can use his connections to more for his paper. Iris Bennington, an outstanding young woman heading her way to spinsterhood. She's not going to marry just anyone, oh no why should she be tied down to someone who isn't going to appreciate her. She's also has been taking care of her younger brother for sometime, but he has some oats that need to be sow. Which is perfectly normal had he not been getting his information from a satirical article, which Iris and Merritt to meet.

Oh boy, these two have a rough bout. They kind of infuriate one another, so much so that Merritt tries to tries to find dirt on her. Then he figures she's the perfect girl to help his sister. When in exchange she helps his sister and he helps become like a gentleman. Sounds like a reasonable thing to do. Oh the scandal if she's caught dressing up as a dude.

Anyway, The Scoundrel and the Lady was a pretty good read. I mean have lady who is skirting around scandal with a gentleman. I like Merritt tries to save her and she's like no. That was pretty funny. They are both stubborn in their ways, but they actually fit well together. I like that Iris was trying to fix Merritt with his pride, and he was trying to put her in her place. Oh the trouble these two can get into. So, if this sounds like your kind of read you might a take a chance on The Scoundrel and the Lady.

Copy provided by the author.

Rating:
4 Stars

Caught by the Scot by Karen Hawkins (Review)

I finally finished Caught by the Scot and I have to say that it was pretty fun to read through most of the story. There were parts where it became a little longwinded. Towards the end I wanted Conner and Thea together at a certain point the story carried on with more antics.

Anyway, we have Conner who has found that he and his brother stand to inherit their family lands and stuff, but there is a stipulation they must married and good standing women. Otherwise the stuff will go to a rival clan. Eek! Conner believes he has the perfect girl, Theodora Cumberbatch-Snowe . I mean what could go wrong. Basically, he lallygags, and finds out she's decided to elope with a local Squire. Crap. I know. Now he's off to stop that wedding. Thea has decided she's tired of waiting for Conner to actually she her, so she decided to take the next best thing. Honestly, this quite a entertaining. We have Conner trying to convince Thea she's doing the wrong thing, and at the same time offer himself as the better offer. Oh goody.

There are array of characters that beginning to popup as Conner tries to stop this wedding. Picture this as a romantic comedy of errors. I enjoyed the story for the most part. However, I felt that story started to drag a little towards the end, but mostly a good read. I actually like how Conner's ego took a nosedive. It needed to be brought down a peg or two. I liked how decided she wasn't going to wait around for Conner to wake up to see her for real. Overall, Caught by the Scot is a light fun read as they gallivant towards Gretna Green. So, if you are in the mood for a light fun read, Caught by the Scot might be your kind of read.

Copy provided by PocketBooks

Rating:
4 Stars

Foreward PR & Marketing Spotlight + Review + Giveaway: Grigori by Lauren Smith

Girgori

Brothers of Ash & Fire,

Lauren Smith

October 3, 2017

Swerve

He’s one of the last of a powerful but vanishing bloodline …

Grigori Barinov is the eldest in an ancient line of dragon shifters and the guardian of his family’s lands and fortune. Sworn to protect their history and magic, he won’t rest until he neutralizes any threat to their existence. When he discovers an ancient manuscript that exposes his family and their dragon lineage has fallen into a mortal woman’s hands, he knows he must get the book back by any means necessary. If that means seducing a nosy American woman with an intoxicating scent, he is more than willing to carry her off to his palatial home deep in the heart of Russia.

She’s the one woman who could expose him to the world…

Madelyn Haynes has never fit in. As an adopted child she grew up in a loving home but never felt as though she belonged. Plagued by mysterious dreams she’s had of a silver scaled beast ever since she was a little girl, she is convinced dragons are real. While in Russia working on her PhD in mythology in order to escape the ridicule from fellow professors, she unexpectedly crosses paths with the sexy and dominating Grigori, and after just one night with the man whose eyes seem to burn, she starts to change inside. Isolated in the Russian wilderness Grigori calls home, Madelyn can’t help but fall under his sensual spell, yet something deep inside her calls out that she can’t trust him. She has to show the world dragons are real to salvage academic reputation, even if it means costing her the heart of the dragon she’s falling in love with.

My Thoughts:

Savage Rising by Katie Reus (Review)

I have to say that I like Savage Rising so much more than Resurrection. However, Resurrection had it's purpose to introducing us to these new characters. Even though you don't have to really need to read the first book to understand Savage Rising, it might help with the establish of characters. Yes, you see most of the gang in this story. However, the focus is on Zac Savage, and we are introduced to Olivia Carter.

Zac and Olivia are on a mission to get her out of a pickle. Basically, they need to rescue her nanny who is more like a mother and ensure to keep her child safe. Don't you hate when the past comes back to haunt you. Anyway, there's a lot that goes on in this story. Zac is a bit a jerk when he first meets Olivia. He kind of paints her as a bad mother, for being young and stupid. However, I love how she puts him in his place. Then we have the intense heat between these two. Yet, they manage to stay on task, because lives are on the line.

Overall, I liked Savage Rising. I like that there was mission that brought Zac someone who would be good for him. You see the team working together to solve Olivia's problem. Plus, I think Katie kind of hints around who's going downing next in the love category. Which I totally hope it's who I think it is, because he sounds like he would be fun to watch. Yes, by the end of the story, you have a happy ending, and the team is a little bigger than before. I can't wait for then next assignment these guys will have to face.

Copy provided by author

Rating:
 4 Stars