Review ~ Off the Ice (Breakaway Novel) by L.P. Dover

Title: Off the Ice

Series: Breakaway Novel

Author: L.P. Dover

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Release Date: October 16, 2018 Cover Designer: RBA Designs Cover Model: Jack Storer Photographer: FuriousFotog

My Opinion

This is the first book I've read in months. To be honest, I've been in a bit of a funk with books and haven't had the desire to read anything. However, I couldn't pass up the opportunity to read a new L.P Dover book.

I will admit, the last few books by LP haven't been my favourite. There felt like there was something missing from them and so I was worried in case the trend continued with Off the Ice. However, not only did this book bring me out of my funk, but it felt more like LP's old style which I had grown to love and miss.

I flew through this book in under a day. Meghan and Justin's story captured my attention ad I couldn't put it down. This is by far my favourite book in the series. There were sparks between the characters, and it was cute watching their feelings develop. I especially like the softer side to Justin.

Overall, I feel this book is my representative of the LP books I class as my favourites. It mimics her style and shows of her talent. Off the Ice was an enjoyable read that I found hard to put down

4

“PHENOMENAL!! LOVED LOVED LOVED!!!! This is an awesome sports romance! A very happy lifting story!” ~ Amazon Review

“Full of both heartwarming sweetness and the perfect amount of steam Off The Ice is an addictive read that will steal your heart!” ~ The Red Hatter Book Blog

“I loved this book! I really feel like it was the best one of the series. L.P. Dover has never disappointed me with any of her stories and with each book I see her grow as a writer.” ~ Amazon Review

He’s always made the scoring plays, both on and off the ice, but this time he has a new goal … the one for Meghan’s heart.

I’m Justin Davis, all-star center for the Charlotte Strikers. For years, I chased the spotlight, not only with hockey, but through television as well. That’s why I decided to play the bachelor on Rich and Single. Unfortunately, I was stuck with a fake fiancée from hell who I couldn’t stand to be around. Now that our contract is up, I’m allowed to do whatever I want, with whoever I want. I plan to take full advantage of my newfound freedom.

After being on the show, people don’t recognize me for hockey anymore, even with just winning the Stanley Cup for my team. That’s why I’m spending the off season in a remote cabin in Wyoming where the chances of people knowing me are slim. Space is what I need, but when a down to earth beauty needs help on her ranch, I can’t resist. Meghan Taylor is exactly what I’ve been looking for, even though I’m not the kind of man she wants.

Getting her to see the real me has its challenges, but the more time I spend with her, the easier it is for her to see that I’m not the same guy she knows from TV. Being away from the media is one thing, but as soon as I’m back in the spotlight, I’m afraid it’ll change what we have. I don’t want to lose her, but I also can’t hide away in Wyoming forever. It’s a choice I’m not ready to make.

Review ~ Against the Odds by N.L. Taylor

eARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: August 7th 2018

Description:
Nikki Elliot is running out of time. After a season and a half of struggling to rebuild her racing career thanks to a near-fatal accident, she is faced with the ugly truth: it’s going to take a miracle for her to make her lifelong dream of racing in Formula 1 a reality. The trouble is, Nikki doesn't believe in miracles. When Fate sends her help in the form of a quiet, sexy mechanic, Nikki realizes that miracles do happen: the ones you hope for and the ones you least expect. But just as things look like they’re falling into place, Nikki discovers that miracles come at a steep price.
Luck has never been on Jake Masercotti’s side. That is until a chance encounter reunites him with his angel—the woman who unknowingly saved his life years earlier. And now that he’s found her, he’ll do whatever it takes to repay her for that gift, even it means risking his life--or worse, his heart--in the process.
Brought together by tragedy years before, and reunited under dangerous circumstances, will Jake and Nikki find love and happiness, even when a danger they never see coming reaches the-redline?

My Opinion

It seem forever ago I started this book. When I requested it, the racing element caught my attention. I was slightly sceptical about the female lead being the driver based on how tough racing is to get into as a woman, especially F1, but I was intrigued to see what the author did with it.

In the end, Against the Odds has split my opinion. On one hand, I liked the idea and the overall plot. There was a bit of sport, danger, suspense, and romance all tied up in this story and it did hold my interest as I wanted to know how things played out. Nevertheless, it wasn't perfect. Personally, I thought this book needed to be condensed more. Although wanting to know what happened next kept me reading, I frequently found myself wishing the pace would increase and I did skim. At times it felt like I was reading a lot of unnecessary details or filler scenes which slowed the pace. Part 3 was definitely the best and showed the full potential, but I almost didn't make it to the part with all of the action. I will be honest and say I did consider giving up because of the slow pace, since it hindered the flow and the intensity of the relationships. 


Overall though, it was an interesting read. It wasn't exactly what I was expecting, but not in a bad way. I do think it needs cutting down, but it did pick up towards the end. It had a little of everything. 

3.5

Review ~ Rush (Gods #2) by Samantha Towle

eARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: August 7th 2018

Publisher: Headline Eternal

Description:
It’s been three years since quarterback Ares Kincaid’s NFL dream came true, and he’s living the high life. The days of cleaning up after his drunk of a father are long gone, and he has no intention of going back.

A car crash and DUI charge meant a lengthy stint in rehab for Arianna Petrelli, and her dream of being a professional artist slips further away when she’s sacked from her position at a gallery. Her need for a job stronger even than her dislike of football, Ari goes to work for her father, the head coach of the New York Giants.

Ares hates alcoholics, which is fine with Ari because she thinks he’s a brainless jock. Yet when Ares rescues Ari from a situation with her ex-boyfriend, an unlikely friendship begins – one that quickly becomes more.

But messing around with the coach’s daughter can only lead to one thing…trouble.

My Opinion

I've been dying to get my hands to this book. To be honest, I'm dying to get my hands on any Samantha Towle book. Her writing never fails to grip me and pull me into her worlds, and Rush was no exception. 

I've been in a bit of a reading funk lately, but this book managed to pull me out of it. From the first page it hooked me and I couldn't put it down. How Ares and Ari met made me chuckle and I felt the spark as their relationship developed. I thought as a couple they worked together and there was just the right amount of drama and chemistry to keep things interesting.


Overall, another really enjoyable read I'd definitely recommend. To be honest, I'd recommend any of Samantha's work and I can't wait to see what she releases next.

4

Review ~ Envy (Eagle Elite) by Rachel Van Dyken

 

From New York Times Bestselling author Rachel Van Dyken, comes ENVY, a new novella in her Eagle Elite Series, brought to you by 1,001 Dark Nights! Be sure to grab your copy today!

 

From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Rachel Van Dyken comes a new story in her Eagle Elite series…

Every family has rules, the mafia just has more…. Do not speak to the bosses unless spoken to. Do not make eye contact unless you want to die. And above all else, do not fall in love. Renee Cassani’s future is set. Her betrothal is set. Her life, after nannying for the five families for the summer, is set Somebody should have told Vic Colezan that. He’s a man who doesn’t take no for an answer. And he only wants one thing. Her. Somebody should have told Renee that her bodyguard needed as much discipline as the kids she was nannying. Good thing Vic has a firm hand.

My Opinion

I love this world. I've said it before but I'll say it again, Rachel Van Dyken books are some of my favourites, and the Eagle Elite series is in my opinion the best mafia series out there. I have yet to read a series that beats this one in terms of story and the connections between the characters. Saying that, it'll come as no surprise that I couldn't wait to get my hands on this.

Envy lived up to all the previous books in this series. It had it's intense moments, familiar faces, dark sense of humour, and everything else I've come to expect. I felt the connection between Vic and Renee and thought things were paced and developed well considering the novella length. 

My only complaint is because it's part of the 1001 Dark Nights set it is a novella. There's nothing wrong with that, and Rachel did a great job of fitting everything into a satisfying package that felt complete, but I'm greedy. And since this is one of my favourite series I wanted more. I always want more from the Eagle Elite world no matter how long a book is.

Overall, this was an enjoyable addition to the series and I hope there will be another book soon!

5

 

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Review ~ Going for the Hole by L.P. Dover

Title: Going for the Hole

Author: L.P. Dover

Genre: Sports Rom/Com

Release Date: June 25, 2018
Cover Designer: Letitia Hasser @ RBA Designs

My Opinion

As anyone who follows my blog regularly, I can't get enough of LP's work. As one of my favourite authors, I was excited to read Going for the Hole. The fact that it was a romantic comedy made it all the more appealing since I needed a light-hearted read after uni exams. 

However, despite all of that, it pains me to say this book didn't live up to what I've come to expect from this author. I'm not sure why, but I struggled to connect with the Ashley and Lucas. I wanted to like them, but it felt like the spark usually present in L.P's couples was missing. Things between them happened too quickly as well. I wasn't sure I believed it. 

As for the plot, it was a light, easy read. I don't think it lined up with my sense of humour, but that's not to say others won't laugh at it. 

Overall, it's not my favourite book by this author. However, she has some exceptional reads so it's inevitable there is going to be one book at some point I don't connect with. Despite that I'm still looking forward to what she comes up with next!

3

Grip it softly.

Stroke it smooth.

And you’ll sink right into the hole. That’s my motto both on and off the golf course. The women come in full supply everywhere I go and there are no complaints. Maybe it’s the size of my driver that gets them going. 

I’m Lucas “Ace” Montgomery, professional golfer and world record holder for the longest drive in golf history. The PGA Tour has been my life, but it’s time for a break. A few relaxing weeks of drinking and golf with friends in Myrtle Beach is what I need. However, when a bright pink ball knocks me out on the course, and a blonde beauty comes to my aid, I expect to see a gallery girl, a.k.a a member of the Party Groupie Association. Trust me, those girls know how to have fun. Although, to my surprise, it’s not what I get at all. 

Dr. Ashley Locke is beautiful and everything I’d want if I was ever to get serious about someone. Unfortunately, she has no interest in me whatsoever which only makes me want her more. All she wants is to get through her friend’s bachelorette weekend and go back to her life. But after injuring me on the course, I’m not letting her run away so easily. When I want something, I get it. 

I’m not competing for money this time. All I want is to win her heart.

Review ~ Dirty Exes (Liars, Inc. #1) by Rachel Van Dyken

eARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: June 5th 2018

Publisher: Skyscape

Description:
Blaire has never quite gotten over Jessie Beckett, the ex–NFL star whose kisses were hot enough to ignite the entire Eastern Seaboard. When he chose work over her, Blaire was left brokenhearted. Why else would she have married a skeezy two-timer, just to divorce him less than a year later?

Now Blaire is getting even by becoming one half of Dirty Exes, a PI firm fully committed to humiliating cheating jerks. If only the new jerk she’s been hired to uncover wasn’t Jessie Beckett himself.

Exposing Jessie isn’t going to be easy, especially when she still daydreams about his sexy smile. Further complicating matters is Colin, Jessie’s best friend. He’s gorgeous, a little bit cunning, and willing to help Blaire get the inside scoop on Jessie—for a price.

Now caught between two men—one totally right and the other totally wrong—Blaire will need to decide just how much she’s willing to risk…and whom she’s willing to risk it for.

My Opinion

What can I say that I haven't already about Rachel Van Dyken? There's probably not a lot. I love her work and really can't get enough of it, and Dirty Exes was no exception. 

I wasn't really sure what to expect from this book, but it hooked me from the first page. It was a light-hearted and humorous read that was the perfect break from the stresses of exams. It made me smile, was a little silly, and had some hot moments.

I'm also glad the characters ended up with who they did. For a moment I thought they might end up in different couples, which I wouldn't have enjoyed so much. But they didn't. Blaire and her guy were a good match. They bounced off each other and worked. 


Overall, another enjoyable read from this author.

4

Review ~ Kenzie and the Guy Next Door by R. Linda

Title: Kenzie and the Guy Next Door

Author: R. Linda

Genre: NA Romance

Release Date: May 29, 2018 Publisher: Limitless Publishing

The last thing I expected was my ex-boyfriend showing up unannounced, demanding to see our son. The son whose existence he’d previously never bothered to acknowledge, leaving me a single mother at sixteen years old.

As if I’m not freaked out enough, I also have to deal with a loud, annoying new neighbour on top of it all.

Imagine my surprise when I discover my neighbour is none other than Jeremy, my best friend’s dangerously hot brother, who was recently released from prison.

I’m sure he’s a complication I definitely don’t need. But then he inserts himself effortlessly into my life, becoming my hero, my saviour, and someone my son can look up to, and I realize how much I actually need him.

But my ex isn’t backing off, making me wonder what he’s capable of—and how far Jeremy will go to keep us safe.

My Opinion

This book has me struggling for words. If you follow my blog, you'll already know I've read the previous books in this series and enjoyed them, especially the first two. Because of this I was excited to read Kenzie and the Guy Next Door. Now I've read it though, I can't help but feel it didn't live up to the other books.

I'm not sure why, but something about this book just didn't connect with me. The characters felt a bit two dimensional and the story didn't feel like it dug too deep. To be honest, everything felt too easy and events were glossed over. It felt more like a rough outline without the depth I like at certain point, which was a shame considering I've liked this series up until this book.

I'm not saying the is a bad read, it's not. However, I've seen better from this author and expected more. If you like easy reads to pass the time that don't dig too deep this might be for you.

Overall, it'a not my favourite in the series. I'm not sure if I'll read the next one, but I am curious about Brody (hopefully it's him). I would however definitely recommend books 1 and 2.

3

Review ~ Melt For You by J.T. Geissinger

About MELT FOR YOU

A wallflower gets seduction tips from a playboy athlete—until love changes the rules.

Socially awkward Joellen Bixby has a date every Saturday—with her cat, a pint of ice cream, and fantasies of the way-too-handsome Michael Maddox. She’d give anything to win over the unattainable CEO of her firm, but how can she when she blends in so well with her cubicle? The answer may be closer than she thinks.

Cameron McGregor is a cocky, tattooed Scottish rugby captain who just moved in next door. He’s not Jo’s type—at all—but the notorious playboy is offering to teach the wallflower everything he knows about inspiring desire. Though a lot of women have rumpled Cam’s kilt, Jo is special. Far from the ugly duckling she thinks she is, in Cam’s eyes she’s sharp, funny, and effortlessly sexy. Now, thanks to him, Jo is blooming with confidence and has the man of her dreams within reach.

Unfortunately for Cam, he’s just helped to push the woman of his dreams into the arms of another man—and now he’s in the fight of his life to keep this beauty from getting away.

Add MELT FOR YOU to your Goodreads list here!

My Opinion

I'm quickly coming not to be able to get enough of this author's work. Having discovered her only last year and swiftly reading her back catalogue, I'm left eagerly awaiting each new release. 

Melt For You just continued my love of her work. It was an easy-going and positive book that put a smile on my face and kept me hooked. Cam and Joellen had a great connection and I loved the banter between them both. Cam especially captured my heart. He might have looked like a tough rugby player, but inside he was a big marshmallow and I loved him for how he built up Joellen. Together they grew and the chemistry built. 

As for the plot, it was sweet, funny, and had the right amount drama. The only small complaint I have is a few loose ends weren't tied up--such as the issues with Cam. I would have liked a bit more resolve on that side of things. Other than that I just loved every second I was immersed in this world. 

Overall, Melt For You was another great read. The characters drew me in and I'm sad it's over. I'll be looking out for the next release by this author. 

5

Get your hands on MELT FOR YOU:

https://amzn.to/2qBO2AM

Review ~ Anonymous by L.P. Dover

Title: ANONYMOUS

Author: L.P. Dover

Genre: Romantic Suspense Standalone

Release Date: April 23, 2018

Every person has a story to tell. Some may be sweet with a happily ever after, but there are others that end in tragedy. Mine has yet to be finished.

My name is Elizabeth Kingston and this is where my story begins.

I never thought my life could be so perfect. I have an amazing job owning my own bakery, and a wonderful husband who I love and who loves me back. Never once did I have to worry about anything, at least, not until the texts started coming in. They always begin the same way … numbers that spell my nickname when read upside down.

31773

It’s someone from my past, only they won’t to tell me who they are, but that by talking to them, I’ll figure it out. It’s a game I refuse to play. Unfortunately, I’m left with no choice when things begin to take a dangerous turn.

His name is Anonymous and there’s only one thing he wants … ME.




My Opinion

A surprise release by one of my favourite authors. Like, seriously, who could turn that down? I hadn't heard anything about Anonymous until I saw the tour invite, and I will admit I got a stupid grin on my face.

Anonymous was a little different from LP's other books. For one, the couple are already married. Second, the focus is much more on the crime than the romance. That doesn't mean there isn't chemistry, though. Jake and Ellie clearly love each other and they had an intriguing story to tell.

As for the plot, overall it kept me engaged. Did I guess who anonymous was? Yes. However, that might be down to knowing the set ups and formulas used to write these types of books. It takes a lot for me not to guess a twist having worked in the industry for so long.

In general, this was another good read by LP. Like I said, it's a little different from her usual books, but she knows how to tell a captivating story and that translates to this type of read too.


4

Review ~ Viktor (Kincaid Security & Investigations, #2) by Apryl Baker

Title: Viktor

Series: Kincaid Security & Investigations #2

Author: Apryl Baker

Genre: Romantic Suspense

Release Date: May 1, 2018 Publisher: Crave Publishing

Viktor Kincaid is a man on a mission. He served his country in the Marines, and now he protects the threatened and vulnerable from harm as part of Kincaid Security and Investigations. 

When his brother asks for his help protecting a friend from her violent soon to be ex-husband, he jumps into action. 

No man has the right to lay his hands on a woman or child.

Sara Riley is not what he expected. She’s full of fire and passion, and she not only intrigues him, she could be exactly what’s he always been looking for. 

Sara is ready to fight tooth and nail for herself and her young daughter. Escaping an abusive marriage is full of hidden dangers, but even with her ex violating the restraining order, Sara might be down, but she’s far from out.

I don’t want to be your rebound guy. I want to be your forever guy.

Viktor’s unexpected words scare her, but he’s slowly winning her over…and her baby girl. But can she let go of her own fears, or will her ex ruin everything before she can even try at a happily ever after?


My Opinion
I've been dying to read Viktor's story since I read The Healing Touch. He caught my interest then and I will admit I was slightly annoyed--in an impatient way--by the author making me wait to read his story. Don't get me wrong, I really enjoyed Kade, but this is the book I've been waiting for.

After all that waiting, I'm so glad to be able to say it didn't disappoint. From start to finish, the book held my attention and I couldn't put it down. Thanks to this author I'm now behind on work deadlines, but I'd say it was worth it.

Viktor was the right amount of tough, but with a gentle and soft side around his family. I loved how he took to Delia, and how gentle he was with her. The love all the Kincaid men have for the women in their lives is evident in spades. I also liked the introduction of Mason. He seems like an interesting character and I think he's taken over my intrigue from Connor. While I'd love to read about both men in their own books, Mason seems a bit more jovial. Although, I am intrigued by Connor's darkness.

As for the plot, in general it was well-paced and kept my attention. The only slight downside was the ending all came a bit sudden and I didn't really feel it reached a climax with the danger. The resolution came about a bit too easy in that sense.

Overall though, the was a great read and I'd definitely recommend this author's romance work. I can't wait for the next book, no matter who it is written about.

4

So who am I? Well, I’m the crazy girl with an imagination that never shuts up. I LOVE scary movies. My friends laugh at me when I scare myself watching them and tell me to stop watching them, but who doesn’t love to get scared? I grew up in a small town nestled in the southern mountains of West Virginia where I spent days roaming around in the woods, climbing trees, and causing general mayhem. Nights I would stay up reading Nancy Drew by flashlight under the covers until my parents yelled at me to go to sleep.

Growing up in a small town, I learned a lot of values and morals, I also learned parents have spies everywhere and there’s always someone to tell your mama you were seen kissing a particular boy on a particular day just a little too long. So when you get grounded, what is there left to do? Read! My Aunt Jo gave me my first real romance novel. It was a romance titled “Lord Margrave’s Deception.” I remember it fondly. But I also learned I had a deep and abiding love of mysteries and anything paranormal. As I grew up, I started to write just that and would entertain my friends with stories featuring them as main characters.

Now, I live in small town in WV where I entertain my niece and nephew and watch the cats get teased by the birds and laugh myself silly when they swoop down and then dive back up just out of reach. The cats start yelling something fierce…lol.

I love books, I love writing books, and I love entertaining people with my silly stories.

Check Apryl out at Limitless Publishing and Wattpad

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