Review ~ You Are Mine (Nine Circles #3) by Jackie Ashenden

eARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: October 6th 2015

Publisher: St Martin's Press

Description:

In the Nine Circles Club, there's a fine line between pleasure and pain, sin and salvation, heaven and hell. And it takes one bold pair of lovers to cross it...

He's master of the game.Zac Rutherford is one of the most powerful and sought-after men in New York's private club scene. Masterful and demanding, he attracts beautiful women willing to surrender to his every whim, every desire, and every command. But Zac is in love with one woman, and one woman only. She is his true passion-and sole obsession. A glorious angel in the flesh...who refuses to be touched by any man.

She doesn't play by the rules.Eva King owes her life to Zac. Seven years ago, he rescued her from darkness. Still, in spite of her attraction to Zac, she refuses to allow any man to touch her body, let alone her heart. But when a dangerous enemy from Eva's past reappears, Zac is the only one who can save her-if she's willing to bare her soul, shed her inhibitions, and surrender control...to him.

My Opinion

I've been looking forward to getting near the release date of this book so I could pick it up. The premise intrigued me and it sound like it would be a hot and intense read. However, I do feel slightly let down now I've reached the end.

You Are Mine is a very mixed read for me. The parts that held my interest were brilliant. When Zac and Eva interacted and battled each other I thought the pace was good.

However, these moment were broken up by sections that I struggled with. The pace dragged a lot in this book and I did find myself skimming sections. There were too many internal thoughts and analysis for my liking. The characters repeated themselves a lot and I just wanted them to hurry up and get to where they were going. Eva and her attitude annoyed me. I understood and sympathised because of her past, but she was so stubborn it got irritating. Similarly I never grew to like Zac. He felt cold and insensitive in his actions towards Eva.

This book did pick back up for the ending. I'm not sure it was worth the wait, but it shows the potential of the author's work.

Overall You Are Mine was an okay read. It may work for you, but it dragged too much for me and the enjoyable sections weren't enough to keep my full attention.


2

Review ~ These Battered Hands by Laurel Ulen Curtis

eARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: September 29th 2015

Publisher: Seelf-published

Description:
Callie

Blood, sweat, hard work, and a disconcerting lack of tears—my entire life—was meant to culminate in a flourish of glory and significance.
I’d thought I’d always known exactly what that meant.
But I’d had the timing wrong by about three minutes.
I knew now.
This moment wasn’t everything. The one person I found myself wanting more than anything during it was.

Nik

One preconceived notion can haunt you for the entirety of your life.
I thought I owed it to myself and to everyone who’d ever backed me to do what was expected. What was right. What I was supposed to do.
But nothing is forbidden in love. Not circumstances or propriety or the denial of the object of said affection.
I knew now.
This was it.
If I wanted it, I had to take it.

My Opinion

I'm not really sure what to say about this book. I didn't hate it and I didn't love it so I'm stuck in that awkward position of trying to describe my feelings towards something when there's very little to describe.

These Battered Hands is a tough one for me. I don't know why, but I didn't connect with it. The whole way through I felt very distant and I couldn't engage with the characters. I didn't feel the chemistry between Nik and Callie. Honestly, though, I can't tell you why. I liked the idea and concept, it just didn't work for me.

Saying that something about it kept me reading. I did consider giving up at around 44% because things were moving too slowly and I felt too distant. Regardless, I stuck with it and was thankful the second half was more enjoyable. Although I didn't feel their emotions, I liked watching the drama unfold.

Overall it's a book that didn't work for me. It isn't a bad read and it may work for you so if it sounds interesting consider it.

3

Review ~ Drowning to Breathe (Bleeding Stars, #2) by A.L. Jackson

ebook purchased by myself.

Release Date: September 15th 2015

Publisher: Self-published

Description:

The danger in pretending is it becoming real...

Sebastian Stone, Sunder front man and guitarist with a rap sheet about ten miles long, escaped to Savannah, Georgia, to get away from the trouble he’d caused.

Not find more of it.

The moment he saw Shea Bentley, he saw beneath all her sweet and innocence to something that went deeper.

Darker.

Their relationship was built on secrets; their love built on lies.

Sebastian never imagined how deep her secrets went.

When the past and present collide, Sebastian and Shea find themselves fighting for a future neither believed they deserved. Their passion is consuming and their need unending.

Now, holding the truth in his hands, Sebastian is faced with sacrificing everything he’s come to love to protect Shea and his family.

Two pasts intertwined.

Two lives bound.

Will their demons drown them or will Shea and Sebastian finally learn to breathe?

My Opinion

Like I stated in my review of book 1, I started Drowning to Breathe the second I finished A Stone in the Sea. I'm glad I waited to buy both of these books together because the cliffhanger was cruel. However, I thought this book was definitely better than book 1.

For me, this book was better paced. I felt the emotions more, and there was more going on in it. The storyline was varied and interesting so I couldn't put it down. I should have a bone to pick with this author since I missed out on a whole day's work, but I can't really be mad because I enjoyed the time spent reading this.

I loved Baz's protective instincts. Yeah, he was a bit on the angry side, but I felt his affection and desire to make sure no harm came to either of his girls. I especially liked how he accepted Kallie and treated her.

The only drawback which has cause me to knock my rating down slightly was the ending. Although all loose ends were tied up it felt like I was told everything in a few pages. It didn't give me the closure I would have liked since it was so abrupt.

Overall though I preferred it to book 1. This duet was two books I couldn't put down.

4

Review ~ A Stone in the Sea (Bleeding Stars, #1) by A.L. Jackson

ebook purchased by myself.

Release Date: February 23rd 2015

Publisher: Self-published

Description:
He wanted nothing at all…

Until he found she had everything to give…

Sunder lead singer and guitarist Sebastian Stone has everything—fans, fame, and fortune. He also has a heart full of bitterness and a reputation for a short-fused temper. But an outward reputation rarely reveals the true man inside. Facing assault charges after trying to protect his younger brother, Sebastian is sent to Savannah, Georgia to lie low until the dust settles in L.A.

Shea Bentley is beautiful, kind, and hiding from the very lifestyle Sebastian has always embraced.

When the mysterious, tattooed stranger begins hanging out at the bar where she works, Shea is quick to recognize he is nothing but trouble, but she's helpless to the way her body lights up every time his intense gray eyes tangle with hers.

They both soon find themselves drowning in a sea of desire and passion that won’t let them up for air.

Sebastian knows firsthand secrets never die, and he’s not the only one who’s hiding them.

Loving someone always comes with a price. But will it be Shea’s past that costs them everything?

My Opinion

It was book 2 that drew me to this duet, and when I saw them on offer I couldn't resist. I didn't expect to read both books in a day and a half, but that's what I ended up doing. I couldn't even stop to write a review in between.

A Stone in the Sea started off a little slow. In the beginning I wasn't sure I was even going to get to book 2. However, it turned things around and the ending had me starting on Drowning to Breathe immediately. If there's one thing I'd say about this read it's you'll need book two immediately because of the cliffhanger. I'm definitely glad I waited for the release day to buy both.

The characters, like the story, grew on me. I slowly grew to feel for them and engage with them. I adored Kallie and the way she wrapped everyone around her little finger.

Although the story was a bit repetitive the ending made up for this and book two improved the story even more. Overall it was a good read. I will say I preferred book 2 more but you can't read that without this one.

4

ARC Review ~ Menagerie (Menagerie, #1) by Rachel Vincent

eARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: September 27th 2015

Publisher: MIRA (Harlequin)

Description:
When Delilah Marlow visits a famous traveling carnival, Metzger's Menagerie, she is an ordinary woman in a not-quite-ordinary world. But under the macabre circus black-top, she discovers a fierce, sharp-clawed creature lurking just beneath her human veneer. Captured and put on exhibition, Delilah in her black swan burlesque costume is stripped of her worldly possessions, including her own name, as she's forced to "perform" in town after town.

But there is breathtaking beauty behind the seamy and grotesque reality of the carnival. Gallagher, her handler, is as kind as he is cryptic and strong. The other "attractions"—mermaids, minotaurs, gryphons and kelpies—are strange, yes, but they share a bond forged by the brutal realities of captivity. And as Delilah struggles for her freedom, and for her fellow menagerie, she'll discover a strength and a purpose she never knew existed.

Renowned author Rachel Vincent weaves an intoxicating blend of carnival magic and startling humanity in this intricately woven and powerful tale.

My Opinion
 
This book has me stumped ... but in a good way ... I think.

As many of you who follow my blog will know, Rachel Vincent is one of the first authors I discovered. I love her work and have read it all. Therefore I was excited to read Menagerie. I knew it was going to be different--more adult in content and no romance--but I felt I owed it to the author to stick with her and see what she came up with. I will admit I was a little wary after reading The Stars Never Rise. It wasn't my favourite by this author, but one out of all of her releases isn't a bad score so I gave Menagerie a go.

I will admit, the first 50% was touch and go. Parts were great to read and then others felt too slow. The concept intrigued me, but my attention drifted around the 25% mark. If it wasn't for this author's previous record I probably would have considered giving up.

However, there is something I can only describe as weirdly fascinating about Menagerie. I can't put my finger on what it is because even in the slow sections I wanted to read on. This book shouldn't have worked for me on quite a few levels, but it compelled me to read on. Once I got over the halfway point, too, things picked up and I sped through the rest of the book.

I'm not going to go into much detail about the story or characters because I think this is a book you need to experience. I really can't sum it up in a few words as there's so much detail to the vast cast. The author did a great job of keeping track of everyone and characterising them.

Overall it's a book you need to read. It's a weirdly fascinating, dark look at humanity and there's something compelling about it. Yes, it's different to all of her other books, but it works. If you've supported this author don't let that fact put you off and if you've never read anything by her, I'd recommend this and her other novels.

4

Review ~ Alpha (Alpha, #1) by Jasinda Wilder

ebook downloaded via Amazon for free.

Release Date: April 29th 2014

Publisher: NLA Digital LLC

Description:
The first time it happened, it seemed like an impossible miracle. Bills were piling up, adding up to more money than I could ever make. Mom's hospital bills. My baby brother's tuition. My tuition. Rent. Electricity. All of it on my shoulders. And I had just lost my job. There was no hope, no money in my account, no work to be found. And then, just when I thought all hope was lost, I found an envelope in the mail. No return address. My name on the front, my address. Inside was a check, made out to me, in the amount of ten thousand dollars. Enough to pay the bills and leave me some left over to live on until I found a job. Enough to let me focus on classes. There was no name on the check, just "VRI Inc.," and a post office box address for somewhere in the city. No hint of identity or reason for the check or anything. No mention of repayment, interest, nothing…except a single word, on the notes line: "You." Just those three letters.

If you receive a mysterious check, for enough money to erase all your worries, would you cash it?

I did.

The next month, I received another check, again from VRI Incorporated. It too contained a single word: "belong."

A third check, the next month. This time, two words. Four letters. "To me."

The checks kept coming. The notes stopped. Ten thousand dollars, every month. A girl gets used to that, real quick. It let me pay the bills without going into debt. Let me keep my baby brother in school and Mom's hospice care paid for. How do you turn down what seems like free money, when you're desperate? You don't. I didn't.

And then, after a year, there was a knock on my door. A sleek black limousine sat on the curb in front of my house. A driver stood in front of me, and he spoke six words: "It's time to pay your debt."

Would you have gotten in?

I did.

It turns out $120,000 doesn't come free.

My Opinion

Having read other books by this author I was excited when I can across Alpha on Amazon and found it was free. It's been on my list for a while and so it was a nice surprise.

I wasn't sure what to expect from Alpha, especially with the cover implying certain situations. However, I found it to be an intense and enjoyable read. I do think the cover gives the wrong impression as it's more about control than BDSM.

Anyway, this was a hot read. Although the situations were a little strange to begin with, it was weirdly intriguing. I liked the mystery surrounding Roth and thought the author built the anticipation and emotions well. Although I didn't have strong feelings towards either character, there was an interest there that kept me reading.

Overall an intense read. It was hot, steamy, and engaging. I'm not sure if I'll read on or leave it as a standalone yet, but I like this author's work.

4 

Review ~ The Billionaire's Whim: A Billionaire's Romance (Book One) by Bella Forbes

ebook downloaded for free via Amazon.

Release Date: June 30th 2015

Publisher: Self-published

Description:
Twenty-three year old Lillian Jones can’t seem to stay employed; she always lets her temper get the better of her. Her life is a mess; her debts are piling up, she’s about to be evicted, and she’s desperate for a job. Then she gets one last chance: a job as a personal assistant for sexy billionaire Trent Blackwell. Her independent spirit recoils at the idea of working for such a demanding, controlling man, but something inside of her melts at his command. She promises herself that she’ll do everything she can to hold on to this job, no matter what.

After his father’s death, Trent Blackwell finds himself in charge of Blackwell Enterprises at the age of 32.
A man of confidence, he gets what he wants, when he wants it. And the second Lillian told him off during her interview, he knew he wanted her. He’s determined to take her in hand and teach her some respect, and he knows that’s what she secretly craves. As he brings her to a new level of sexuality, they dive into a world of temptation, desire, and broken boundaries. But a scheming ex and some suspicious activity within the company mean that Trent and Lillian will need to work together if they are to save the company, as well as their lives. 

My Opinion

This is book one in a serial so obviously it's short. However, nothing happens to make me want to read on. I'm assuming the next books are paid reads and being a six book series at this length I don't think it'll be worth it. The entire reason behind this one was setting up the story, but it's not very gripping. There are plenty of billionaire romances that are full length and cheaper.

2 

Blot Tour ~ Next Door To A Star by Krysten Lindsay Hager

They like me...they like me not.

NEXT DOOR TO A STAR by Krysten Lindsay Hager

Genre: Young Adult Romance

★ SYNOPSIS ★

Hadley Daniels is tired of feeling invisible.

After Hadley’s best friend moves away and she gets on the bad side of some girls at school, she goes to spend the summer with her grandparents in the Lake Michigan resort town of Grand Haven. Her next door neighbor is none other than teen TV star Simone Hendrickson, who is everything Hadley longs to be—pretty, popular, and famous—and she’s thrilled when Simone treats her like a friend.

Being popular is a lot harder than it looks.

It’s fun and flattering when Simone includes her in her circle, though Hadley is puzzled about why her new friend refuses to discuss her former Hollywood life. Caught up with Simone, Hadley finds herself ignoring her quiet, steadfast friend, Charlotte. 

To make things even more complicated, along comes Nick Jenkins…

He’s sweet, good-looking, and Hadley can be herself around him without all the fake drama. However, the mean girls have other ideas and they fill Nick’s head with lies about Hadley, sending him running back to his ex-girlfriend and leaving Hadley heartbroken. 

So when her parents decide to relocate to Grand Haven, Hadley hopes things will change when school starts…only to be disappointed once again.

Cliques.

Back-stabbing.

Love gone bad.

Is this really what it’s like to live…

Next Door To A Star?

★ ★ PURCHASE ★ ★
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★ ★ BOOK TRAILER ★ ★

YOUTUBE: http://bit.ly/1F1KUCa

★ ★ EXCERPT ★ ★

The school year should end right after spring break, because all anyone can focus on is summer vacation. You can’t learn anything new, because all you can think about is all the fun stuff you’re going to do once you don’t have to get up at the butt crack of dawn. Summer always seems full of possibilities.

Nothing exciting ever happens during the school year, but maybe, during summer vacation, you could run into a hot celebrity and he’d decide to put you in his next music video. Okay, it wasn’t like I knew anybody that happened to, but my grandparents did live next door to a former TV star, Simone Hendrickson, and Simone was discovered in an ice cream parlor one summer. Of course, she lived in L.A. at the time and was already doing plays and commercials, so the guy who discovered her had already seen her perform. But hey, it was summer, she got discovered, and that was all that mattered.

Amazing stuff didn’t happen to me. You know what happened to me last summer? I stepped on a bee and had to go to the emergency room. They’re not going to make an E! True Hollywood Story out of my life. I didn’t go on exotic vacations—like today, I was being dragged along with my parents to my cousin’s graduation party. Most people waited until at least the end of May before having a grad party, but Charisma was having hers early because she was leaving on a trip to Spain. I was dreading this party because I didn’t want to listen to everybody talk about how smart and talented Charisma was—making me feel like a blob in comparison—but my mom RSVP’d even though I said I’d rather die than go. My death threats meant nothing. But still, for some strange reason, I had a feeling this summer was going to be different.

★ ★ KRYSTEN LINDSAY HAGER ★ ★ 

Krysten Lindsay Hager is an obsessive reader and has never met a bookstore she didn’t like. She’s worked as a journalist and humor essayist, and writes for teens, tweens, and adults. She is the author of the Landry’s True Colors Series and her work has been featured in USA Today and named as Amazon’s #1 Hot New Releases in Teen & Young Adult Values and Virtues Fiction and Amazon’s #1 Hot New Releases in Children’s Books on Values. She’s originally from Michigan and has lived in South Dakota, Portugal, and southwestern Ohio. She received her master’s degree from the University of Michigan-Flint.

LIMITLESS PUBLISHING: http://www.limitlesspublishing.net/authors/krysten-lindsay-hager/

WEBSITE: http://www.krystenlindsay.com/

GOODREADS: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8298036.Krysten_Lindsay_Hager

TWITTER: https://twitter.com/KrystenLindsay

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Review ~ Escape In You (Escape, #1) by Rachel Schurig

ebook downloaded via Amaozn for free

Release Date: October 13th 2013

Publisher: Self-published

Description:
This new adult contemporary romance contains mature themes and is recommended for ages 18+

This is a complete story with no cliffhanger!

Jet Taylor is the quintessential bad boy. A womanizer. A fighter. Dangerous. The type of guy most girls do their best to avoid. But Zoe Janes is no saint herself. In fact, she sees in Jet the perfect opportunity to distract herself from her responsibilities at home and the mistakes that keep her trapped there. He’s gorgeous, likes to party, and is clearly only interested in having fun—just like Zoe.

The more time they spend together, the harder it is for Zoe to stick to her “fun only” mantra. Jet is getting under her skin, making her believe things could actually be different. She knows they’re both trapped by the sins of their past but Jet is starting to make her think freedom might actually be possible.

And that makes him the most dangerous boy of all.

My Opinion

I was excited when I happened to come across this free on Amazon. I enjoyed Ransom when I received an ARC so I was eager to start a new series by this author.

Unfortunately, I'm going to have to mark this as DNF. I made it as far as 43% but I'm already skimming and it just isn't holding my interest. The pacing is too slow for my liking and I haven't understood the crux of the story. It's a bit bland.

DNF

Review ~ Nothing like the First Time (The Sweet Romance Series #1) by Keren Hughes

ebook downloaded for free via Amazon

Release Date: May 20th 2014

Publisher: Limitless Publishing

Description:

*This NA Contemporary Romance story contains sexual content and language aimed at a mature audience. 17+*

Carly Summers and Greyston Sterling were each other's first kiss, first sexual experience, first love, first everything.
They had a love that was made to last. That was until Grey took a job as a freelance photographer that took him to the other side of the world. When it came down to a choice between his career and his girl - he chose the career. He's travelled the world and seen sights he wished Carly was there to experience. He's had relationships along the way but nothing meaningful.
Carly has had relationships but nothing that lasted. No-one could compare to Grey.
Now, 10 years later, Grey's back in town and wants to see if they can rekindle what they had all those years ago. But how can they if he's engaged to somebody else?

Nothing Like The First Time is a tale of how nothing compares to your first love. There are trials and tribulations Carly and Grey must overcome on their way back to each other... what if they can't get over the obstacles life throws at them?

My Opinion

A sweet, cute read.

Nothing Like the First Time was a sweet second chance read. It was a relaxing, easy book that didn't dig too deep and I enjoyed it. It's one of the better freebies I've read in awhile and I was surprised at the rate I got through it. It seemed like I'd only been reading for a few hours when I suddenly noticed I was at 70%.

With regards to the story, like I said above, it was easy. It didn't dig to deep into the past or emotions. It was a gentle story and although at times I did wish for more emotions, it was still enjoyable. Grey and Carly were cute together.

Overall a relaxing read and I can't complain for a freebie.

3.5 

Review ~ Rough (Chicago Underground #1) by Skye Warren

ebook downloaded for free via Amazon

Release Date: May 24th 2015

Publisher: Self-published

Description:

I'm a cautionary tale. A statistic. A victim. A single teenage mother from the poor part of town. Most of the time I'm too busy working and struggling to care what people think. Survival doesn't come easy.

I have a dark secret, a pressure valve, a rare moment just for myself. On these nights I visit a club. There I find men who give me what I need. Men who aren't afraid to take what they want.

Men like Colin.

But he takes more than a few stolen hours. He demands more than my body. He wants my heart and soul--my happily ever after. I never thought I'd be Cinderella. I never thought a man that rough could be my prince.

My Opinion

Rough was an all right read. It was quick and to the point, yet I never really understood it properly. I wanted to, but a disconnect with the characters had me unable to figure them out.

It wasn't all bad. It set up an interesting story and the writing was good. However, it's short and ends very suddenly. Even if books are part of a series I like there to be a satisfying, natural end point and this felt like the author had just stopped writing.

As for Allie, I just didn't get her. A lot of the time I didn't understand her thoughts and she was a bit depressing. For someone who doesn't trust men she sure moved quick with Colin too. I just didn't buy into it all.

Overall it was all right. I'd be interested in the next one but I'm not sure I'm interested enough to buy it as this looks like a long serial.

3

Review ~ Meeting Mr. Write (Mr. Write Trilogy, #1) by Cassandra P. Lewis

ebook downloaded for free via Amazon

Release Date: September 16th 2014

Publisher: Limitless Publishing LLC

Description:
Rosie Alvez is a romance writer with writers block…

Well she has just been dumped…On her wedding day!

Jackson James is a travel writer, and the perpetual bachelor…

He has absolutely no intention of ever settling down. Why would he? He’s living the life he’s always dreamed of. A different beautiful woman in his bed each night, a different incredible destination each week, he didn’t even realise there was anything missing.

Until he met Rosie…

After a chance meeting, Jackson sets his sights on Rosie, much to her annoyance. She might be attracted to him, but can’t stand him!

While the two search for inspiration in Thailand, a romance blossoms, but it’s a rocky road. Rosie needs to be loved, but struggles to trust it. Jackson wants to give in, but is terrified of his strong feelings for the fiery redhead.

My Opinion

This was a sweet read. It's the first I've read by this author and it was a pleasant surprise.

I'll be honest and say the start didn't really hook me. This book was a slow builder, and I did have my doubts. However, once things started happening between Rosie and Jackson I was hooked. I'm glad I stuck with this one as it only got better as it went.

One of my favourite things about this book is it's mostly set in Thailand. I love the country and the author's love and knowledge comes through in the writing. She was able to write about things convincingly and immerse you in the local culture.

Moreover, it's also the perfect place for a romance to start. I thought the way Rosie and Jackson's relationship developed was engaging and believable. Of course, it's a little samey with the commitment-phobe boyfriend, but I liked Jackson and how the end played out. I thought the emotions were well done and I adored Rosie's family.

Overall a good read.

3.5

Review ~ Gabe (Heartbreaker, #1) by Evan Grace

ebook received via the publisher in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: August 18th 2015

Publisher: Limitless Publishing LLC

Description:
Jasmine Nichols is a control freak.
When she graduates from college as valedictorian with a degree in social services, her friend and mentor Jill Swanson offers her a job, but with one condition. She has to take two weeks off and just have fun. Taking the instructions to heart, Jasmine goes to a club called Debauchery and has a sizzling encounter with a sexy stranger.

Ex-pro football player Gabriel Johnson is done playing the field.
Gabe is tired of meaningless relationships, but when he meets a mysterious, beautiful, blue-eyed blonde at Debauchery and the chemistry is undeniable, he knows he’s finally found the one. What he didn’t expect was for her to freak out and run off. 

Jasmine thought she made a clean getaway, so needless to say, she’s shocked when she finds herself face to face with the hot guy from the club once again. 

He’s Jill’s. Half. Brother.

Gabe wants to pick up right where they left off and doesn’t waste any time convincing her. Jasmine’s blown away by the intensity of their relationship. How can she control something that makes her feel so wild and uninhibited?

But Jasmine can’t handle the pressure.

First, she’s confronted with old insecurities. Then suddenly, her brother has a secret he’ll only share with Gabe, the father who abandoned her shows up—at Gabe’s instigation—and a professional tragedy is the last straw. 

What happens when it all falls apart?
Is being with Gabe more than she can handle?

My Opinion

Having read this author's previous work I was excited to see what she came up with next. I liked the sound of what this promised and so I couldn't wait to start. Whilst it was enjoyable, I don't think it quite lived up to her previous books. It was a mixed bag of feelings for me, this one.

To start with the good points, it was hot, passionate, and I believed in the romance and chemistry. I enjoyed reading about Gabe and Jasmine as they grew together and faced their struggles. Gabe was an intense character, yet he was also gentle when he wanted to be. I liked the mix in his personality and thought it worked well. Similarly, Jasmine was a sweet girl. She clearly cared for her Mum and brother, and I enjoyed watching her slowly open herself up to the idea of love.

However, even though all of that was great, there is one thing that's not quite connected with me and that's the story line in general. It wasn't bad, it was easy and light, but I just felt there was too much going on and things weren't developed enough. In Gabe there are a lot of issues and the secondary characters all have them too. I understand the author is setting up their books, however it led to the main plot line falling a bit flat in my eyes. There wasn't a clear  enough story for me. Too many people had things going on so it detracted from the relationship which sometimes just felt like hot sex scenes. It felt like a lot of small, mini plots stitched together rather than one with others woven around in on the outskirts.


Overall though I did enjoy Gabe. My comments about the plot aren't necessarily a bad thing since I enjoyed Gabe. It has some hot moments and a spark filled romance, and I'm interested to read about Nico.

3.5

- PURCHASE -

AMAZON US ➜ http://amzn.to/1hktcyU

Available for FREE with KINDLE UNLIMITED!

- TEASERS -

- ABOUT THE AUTHOR - 
EVAN GRACE

A Midwesterner and self-proclaimed nerd, Evan has been an avid reader most of her life, but five years ago got bit by the writing bug, and it quickly became her addiction, passion and therapy. When the voices in her head give it a rest, she can always be found with her e-reader in her hand. Some of her favorites include, Shayla Black, Jaci Burton, Madeline Sheehan and Jamie Mcguire. Evan finds a lot of her inspiration in music, so if you see her wearing her headphones you know she means business and is in the zone.

During the day Evan works for a large homecare agency and at night she’s superwoman. She’s a wife to Jim and a mom to Ethan and Evan, a cook, a tutor, a friend and a writer. How does she do it? She’ll never tell.

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Review ~ Winter Kisses (3:AM Kisses, #2) by Addison Moore

ebook downloaded for free via Amazon.

Release Date: November 1st 2013

Publisher: Self-published

Description:
Laney Sawyer used to believe in love and all of the trappings that happily ever after could provide until Ryder Capwell crushed her heart.

When Laney is auctioned off as a prize at the drama department fundraiser the last person she expects to trade cold hard cash for her company is Ryder. Ryder Capwell is in love with Laney Sawyer. One year ago she walked out of his life and took the light of his world right along with her.

Ryder would do anything to have another chance with Laney, including purchasing her for the evening courtesy of Whitney Briggs University, and he does just that. One thing leads to whiskey, which leads to a one-night stand. She thinks it’s revenge sex—he thinks its make up sex.

Things can only go wrong from here...

My Opinion
  
I'm not sure what to make of Winter Kisses. I enjoyed 3am Kisses and after reading that I really wanted Cole's story. I knew this wasn't, but it was free and on my list so I thought I'd give it go.

Unfortunately, it didn't really live up to book one. It was short and the whole thing felt rushed. I never grew to connect with the characters. It felt like a snapshot into a bigger story. There was more potential than it delivered.

Saying that I will read book 3 at some point because I want to read Cole's story. Hopefully that book will be longer.

2.5

Review ~ Chasing Impossible (Pushing the Limits #5) by Katie McGarry

ebook received via NetGalley in exchange for pre-ordering Thunder Road

Description:

Tough and independent, 17-year-old Abby lets very few people into her inner circle. It’s common knowledge in her Kentucky town that she deals drugs, but not even her closest friends know why. But when a deal goes south and Abby’s suddenly in danger, she finds herself reluctantly forced to lean on daredevil Logan—a boy whose restless spirit matches her own.

Logan has his own reasons for wanting to keep Abby at arms’ length. But he never expected to find in her the one person who might help him face the demons he’s tried so hard to run from.

Together, Abby and Logan will have to make a decision: let their current circumstances weigh them down forever…or fight for the future they both thought was impossible.

My Opinion

I'm so glad I was able to get a copy of this. I adore Katie McGarry's Pushing the Limits series and I'm glad Abby has finally got her own book. She's always been an interesting character and she remained that way in Chasing Impossible.

I'm not going to say much more about this because it is not available to the general public yet. Therefore if you don't get a copy during the pre-order of this author's latest book you won't be able to. I hope the publisher releases this at some point though. Abby deserves to have her story shared and it was a sweet read about two characters overcoming and accepting their flaws.

4

Release Blitz ~ Screwed by Kendall Ryan

 

Review ~ For Everly by Raine Thomas

ebook received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: May 27th 2013

Publisher: Lambe Books LLC

Description:
**Mature Content Warning** This is a New Adult novel recommended for ages 17+ due to language, sexual content, and mature subject matter.

Determined to overcome a dark and tragic past, college student Everly Wallace is only months away from earning her degree in physical therapy. She’s consumed with school, caring for her ailing grandfather, and figuring out how to pay the next bill. The last thing she wants is a relationship, but it just might be the one thing she needs.

Major League pitcher Cole Parker hasn’t fought for anything in his life. He went from a privileged upbringing to a multimillion dollar All-Star career. But when his pitching shoulder starts to give him trouble at only twenty-four years old, he faces the possibility of his injury becoming public knowledge and costing him everything.

In a desperate bid to save his career, Cole decides to hire someone to treat his injury, someone who will keep things off the record and out of the media. He finds the perfect solution in Everly. As mysterious as she is beautiful, she provides an enticing distraction from his pain. Soon, physical therapy is the last thing on his mind.

When an act of betrayal brings the truths they both fear to light, Cole will have to fight for the first time in his life…not just for his career, but for Everly’s love.

My Opinion

For Everly was a surprisingly touching read. I didn't expect for it to engage me like it did, but it was enjoyable and kept me turning the pages.

I found the characters in this book to be endearing and easy to connect with. I liked how strong Everly was. Despite everything she'd been through at such a young age she was still striving for better. I also respected her for picking up the pieces of her life and shouldering so much responsibility.

Similarly, Cole was a pleasant surprise. I expected a bad boy type player, but he was sweet and loyal. Throughout their relationship I thought their emotions developed well and were built up in a believable way.

As for the story in general, overall I enjoyed it. However I did have two issues. The first is that there was never much detail on the physical therapy side of things. It didn't have an authentic feeling like the author knew specifically what she was talking about. I can't say one way or another if she does, but that's how it came across in the writing. The whole treatment side of things was glossed over and I would have liked more rather than Cole's recovery seeming miraculous in the end.

My second issue was the ending. Whilst it ties up the loose ends, it felt rushed. There was a lot going on in this book and some of the smaller threads were lost during the middle. Rather than have threats and suspense build throughout to keep the narrative consistent, to me it felt like the author forgot about them and then realised at the last minute she had to tie up threads she'd created ages ago. It all felt too rushed and not thought out like the rest of the book. The characters and plot just weren't consistent with the rest of the book that was paced well.

Overall this was a read that surprised me. Although it was let down by the ending, which is why I lowered my rating, it was still a good read.

4

Review ~ Touching The Boss (Billionaires In The City Book 5) by Mallory Crowe

eARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: September 10th 2015

Publisher: Sprinter's Press

Description:
He's tall. 
He's sexy. 
He's a criminal. 
And he's her boss. 

Lacking enough evidence to go the police and not enough money in her bank account to quit on a moral basis, Lori Briggs is stuck, and it's quite clear that her boss, the criminal mastermind, intends to start mixing business with pleasure. 

Michael Devereaux will do anything to protect his family's interests--even if it means posing as a criminal for an undercover FBI operation. He's got to keep Lori close, and his enemies closer. But when the intimacy with Lori deepens, Michael must decide what's more important: his family or his heart?

My Opinion

I think this series has got better with every book that's come out. They're all quick, easy reads with plenty of romance and a hint of suspense, but the later ones are definitely my favourites.

I thought Touching the Boss was one of the better ones in the series. It held my attention well and I enjoyed the elements of suspense with regards to Ken. I thought the plot was entwined well with the romance and I did think there was chemistry between Michael and Lori. I believed in their feelings and Michael's protective desire that turns into more.

The one issue I've had with this series is that the endings always felt rushed. Therefore I always get wary when I hit the 80% mark. However, this one didn't feel that way. I think the main reason for that is things are left open in the plot. I'm hoping and assuming the theme is going to carry over to Luke's book and we'll get a proper resolution then.

The only slight downside to Touching the Boss was it took me a while to remember who everyone was and what had happened previously. These books are the type that are enjoyable in the moment, however they don't really stick with me.


Overall one of the better ones in the series. If you're looking for an easy romance with a hint of suspense you may want to check this out.

4

Review ~ Something Great (Something Great #1) by M. Clarke

ebook received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: December 5th 2013

Publisher: Self-published

Description:
She didn't know what she was missing...until he found her.

Maxwell Knight was dangerously good-looking, seductively charming, and definitely trouble. He was everything Jeanella Mefferd did NOT need now.

Fresh out of college, life was predictable and comfortable for Jeanella. She had the strength of her friends, the security of her job, and she was dating a reliable man; it was all smooth sailing. That was until one night, when she met someone who made her feel things she'd never felt before—dangerous, heart pounding, breathless heat.

Never imagining she would see him again, Jeanella has no idea what to do when fate steps in and thrusts Maxwell Knight into her life, just as things were beginning to change around her. When she lands her dream job and travels to New York for Fashion Week, can she focus on her career instead of on Maxwell?

Will she ignore all the danger signs and jump straight into his arms; or would she miss out on the chance of finding something great?

My Opinion

Something Great was an easy, laid back read that was simple and a good book to relax with on a lazy Saturday.

I'm not going to say too much about this book for reasons I'll explain in a minute. What I will say though is Something Great held my interest well and it's simple story line kept me hooked. It was one of those books I didn't have to think too hard about. The characters weren't too complex, but they had a personality. I thought Max was a gentleman and too sweet. The little touches here and there and gesture he performed made him lovable. However, he also had a dirtier side that led to some heat. The balance was struck well.

As for Jenna, although she didn't connect immensely with me, she was nice. I neither loved nor hated her, but she was interesting enough for me to read on.

That's the reason I'm not going to say too much more. Although this was a nice, gentle read, it didn't draw too many emotions from me. It's one of those good while reading but after it's not one I'll remember. Everything felt too easy for me to connect with it deeply. I wanted some drama in the workplace, or struggles they had to overcome that didn't involve cheating. Everything sorted itself out and it made it maybe too gentle.

Overall a nice read. It's good to relax with and I'd probably recommend it if you're looking for something easy.

3

Review Tour ~ Transcending Darkness by Airicka Phoenix

eARC received via tour company in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: August 31st 2015

Publisher: Self-published

Description:
One: Sign the contract.
Juliette Romero had a debt to pay, a debt that wasn’t even hers. But it was the only way to keep her family safe and all she had to do was sell her body and soul to the devil.

Killian McClary wasn’t called the Scarlet Wolf for nothing. He’d been the head of the McClary Organization since he was fifteen and had built a reputation for being a ruthless son of a bitch when it came to running the city’s underbelly, not to mention merciless when it came to punishing those who betray him. He didn’t believe in weaknesses. Only results. Juliette, with her shy smiles and hot little body was a weakness unlike any other and yet he was powerless to resist one more taste of her sweet flesh.

Two: Become his for a year.
When given the choice between her life or her body, what could Juliette possibly do, but submit to a man whose very name invoked fear in the hearts of others? She just never anticipated falling for his dark, hungry eyes and clever hands, or the way the beast in him made her feel oddly safe and cherished.

But what will happen when Killian’s dark past finally catches up to him and threatens the woman he can no longer imagine himself without? What will happen when both sides find themselves caught in a web of passion, lies and broken promises? Can Juliette tame the wolf or will her love for him devour them both?

Three: Don’t fall in love.
Boundaries will be crossed, loyalties will be tested and lives will be changed forever.

My Opinion

I've been looking forward to getting my hands on this ever since I saw the cover. Having enjoyed Airicka's Baby Saga, I was intrigued to see how she'd handle a darker contemporary romance, and in the end it was just as addictive.

Transcending Darkness was a read that pulled no punches. It was dark, gritty, and at times hard to read due to the subject nature, but it made it all the more captivating to read. I liked that the author didn't shy away from the harder truths. It gave the book an authentic quality and made me believe in the characters, especially Killian.

In general I liked the characters. I thought Juliette was a good mixture of strong and vulnerable, and she complimented Killian well. I liked that she was his voice of reason yet he struggled to accept her. Of course there is some predictability in their relationship and they're dense at times, but I felt for them both. I could understand Killian's motives and I liked the balance between his softer side and the Scarlet Wolf side to him.

As for the plot, it kept me engaged and entertained. Sometime ms I did feel the writing was a little long winded, but the story more than makes up for any tiny issues I had.


Overall this was a dark, addictive read. It drew me into the author's world and I'd definitely recommend it. I'm not sure it would happen, but I would love to read about Maraveet.

4.5