StarAngel's Reviews

Book – Sojourn

Author – Cecilia London

Series – Bellator Saga #3
Publication Date – December 7, 2015
Genre – Romantic Suspense

Type – Part of Series 
Cliffhanger – Yes
Rating – 5 out of 5 Stars

Complimentary Copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis

Haunted by her experience at The Fed, Caroline tries to create a new identity. A new present, a new future. She can’t escape the memories that dog her when she least expects it, leaving her mired in a depression that she finds difficult to escape. Caroline needs to regain her physical and mental strength if she intends on surviving the journey to find the elusive rebellion. But that’s easier said than done with the ghosts of the past constantly whispering in her ear.

The road is long and dangerous, and there are no guarantees. She and her companions have no idea what they will find when they arrive at their destination. And what they finally discover may change everything.

Part Three of a Six Part Saga. Sojourn (approximately 89,000 words) is not a standalone and must be read after the first two books in the series. Ends in a cliffhanger. For readers 18+. This book contains adult situations including explicit sex and violence.

My Thoughts - Story
Ms. London is one of my favorite authors and I get so excited every time I see  her email pop up…cause I know it’s going to be informing me that she would like my feed back on her newest book.

And this one did not at all disappoint. Now, while I was reading it…I kept getting antsy wanting Caroline to find Jack…it broke my heart that she is told that he is most definitely dead. Especially how I bawled at the end of Dissident thinking that both of them would never find the happiness that they both so deserve.

Is this all fairy tale and unicorns?? Hell no… this book is gritty – it is painful but in the same sense – BEAUTIFUL!

That is what I love so much about Ms. London’s writing.  I have been with her from the beginning…waiting in anticipation for each book while she writes. I have lived through Jack and Caroline and their EPIC love story.

Will this book leave you happy and finally sighing with relief? Hmmm…yes and no. This ain’t no fucking fairy tale.

Re-Cap
I can’t say much except that Caroline is barely alive and being nursed back to health by a couple of renegades.  They must work together to get across to the West and California.

Jack is probably dead since no one  has heard from him since they were captured and Caroline must take on a new identity and mentally distance herself from her one true love.

 
Reason for Reading – Author Request

Story Rating – 5 out of 5 Stars

Steam Rating – 5 out of 5 Stars

Angst Rating – 5 out of 5 Stars

Writing Rating – 5 out of 5 Stars

Content Flow Rating – 5 out of 5 Stars

Would Read More from Author? Definitely

Recommend to – Anyone who loves a great love story with suspense.

Book – A Stone’s Throw

Author – Debbie De Louise
Publication Date – November 17, 2015
Genre – Romantic Suspense

Type – Stand-Alone  
Cliffhanger – No
Rating – 4.5 out of 5 Stars

Complimentary Copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis

Widowed librarian Alicia Fairmont needs answers… After her husband is killed in a hit and run accident, Alicia travels upstate to his hometown of Cobble Cove, New York, hoping to locate his estranged family and shed light on his mysterious past. Anticipating staying only a weekend, her visit is extended when she accepts a job at the town’s library. Secrets stretch decades into the past… Assisted by handsome newspaper publisher and aspiring novelist, John McKinney, Alicia discovers a connection between her absent in-laws and a secret John’s father has kept for over sixty years. But her investigation is interrupted when she receives word her house has burned and arson is suspected, sending her rushing back to Long Island, accompanied by John. Back in Cobble Cove, cryptic clues are uncovered… When Alicia returns, she finds a strange diary, confiscated letters, and a digital audio device containing a recording made the day her husband was killed. Anonymous notes warn Alicia to leave town, but she can’t turn her back on the mystery—or her attraction to John. As the pieces begin to fall into place, evidence points to John’s involvement in her husband’s accident. The past and present threaten to collide, and Alicia confronts her fears… Has she fallen in love with her husband’s killer?

My Thoughts - Story
I’m highly impressed with this story and the author. The writing is great and Ms. DeLouise has a gift describing in detail the setting and actions. There were times I felt that I was right there in Cobble Cove with Alicia having some tea and muffins or a PB&J.

I loved these characters and how it all unfolded at the very end. I was expecting a dark twist that probably would have upset me but I was happily surprised and closed this book with a sappy smile on my face.

I do have to add that Ms. DeLouise did a fantastic job at twisting and then unraveling each detail of the mystery and I absolutely loved how it all tied together!

Re-Cap
Alicia just lost her husband six months ago in a hit and run accident and to overcome her grief, she feels that it’s necessary to sweep up some lose ends with his past.

She travels to Cobble Cove and meets John immediately. Both are drawn to the other and they proceed to try and uncover all the mysterious things that are starting to happen since she showed up.

It’s an Agatha Christie meets a small town living!

 
Reason for Reading – Author Request

Story Rating – 5 out of 5 Stars

Steam Rating – 4 out of 5 Stars

Angst Rating – 4.5 out of 5 Stars

Writing Rating – 4.5 out of 5 Stars

Content Flow Rating – 4.5 out of 5 Stars

HEA? -

Would Read More from Author? Yes

Recommend to – Anyone who loves a great love story within a mystery.

Book – Ask Me Something

Series – The Something Series #2

Author – Aubrey Bondurant
Publication Date – November 26, 2015
Genre – Romance/Erotica

Type – Companion Series     
Cliffhanger – No
Rating – 4.5 out of 5 Stars

Complimentary Copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis

How do you ask the question, when you know the answer may change everything?

Sasha Brooks has been focused on one thing her entire life: her career. Newly promoted as the vice president in a New York advertising company, she has beauty, brains, and one hell of a fierce reputation. But she also has a secret that she keeps carefully guarded.

Brian Carpenter is finding out that managing his newest VP isn't without its challenges, but when it comes to Sasha, he'd expect nothing less.
His easygoing personality and Southern charm are the yang to her yin and the calm to her storm. 

Over the last eight years of their friendship, the flirtations, innuendos, and chemistry have almost led to more, but Sasha has convinced herself they're better off just friends.
Almost. 
Until the moment she thinks he's with someone else. 

Is she too late to admit her feelings? 
Gathering the courage to ask the question, Sasha discovers she isn't the only one keeping secrets. 

You think you know someone....

My Thoughts - Story
I’m highly impressed with this story and the author. The writing is flawless and Ms. Bondurant has such a gift for telling a story and getting the reader engrossed.

This book may have been told from Sasha’s POV but to give Brian the chance at the end of the story to express his feelings and the reasons why he did the things he did, just put the icing on the cake.

Kudos to you, Ms. Bondurant. I absolutely LOVED this story and was sucked in by the time I got to the 20% mark.

Yes, there were times I got pissed off at both of our characters and didn’t understand why they had to be so secretive about their feelings and their weaknesses, but I appreciated it by the time I got to the end of the book.

Now, also you have to realize when I first read that Brian had “dominant” rules and wanted Sasha to be submissive in the bedroom, I actually rolled my eyes because it’s been so long since I read books like this and normally find myself skimming over the sexy parts. Cause, really, how many different ways can a couple have sex?

The funny thing is though…I read EVERY SINGLE word…every sex scene – every dom/sub part and believe it or not, I found myself getting aroused.

Why? Because Ms. Bondurant may have made Brian want to be dominant in the bedroom but it was subtle and tastefully done. She didn’t force the sex on you but seamlessly entwined it through the story.

Re-Cap
Sasha is VP of an advertising firm and friends with her boss, Brian for over eight years. She’s always had a “thing” for him but kept it locked up because of the work situation and an anxiety disorder she has had since her teenage years.

Dubbed as Sasha B. Fierce, everyone perceives her as being solid and perfect, but if they only knew the insecurites she deals with. Knowing this, Sasha fears that a relationship with Brian will only fail like all her others in the past.

It isn’t until Sasha gets wind of Brian meeting up with another woman for a booty call, that the green vines of jealousy take over and she lets her feelings known.

But, Brian has an agenda all his own. He wants Sasha to promise to submit in bed and follow his list of rules…as time goes on – it’s only inevitable that the two start to feel more than just a great FUCK.

 
Reason for Reading – Author Request

Story Rating – 4 out of 5 Stars

Steam Rating – 5 out of 5 Stars

Angst Rating – 4 out of 5 Stars

Writing Rating – 5 out of 5 Stars

Content Flow Rating – 5 out of 5 Stars

Told in – Heroine POV

HEA? -

Would Read More from Author? Yes

Recommend to – Anyone who loves a great love story and erotica combined

Book – Beyond Repair

Author – Susie Tate

Publication Date – October 11, 2015
Genre – Romance
Type – Stand Alone
Cliffhanger – No
Rating – 4.5 out of 5 Stars

Complimentary copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis

Everybody loves Katie; with her bubbly personality, her beauty, her never-ending supply of care and support for her patients and friends, and her huge sense of fun, there’s very little to dislike. Yes, she’s a bit scatty, she tends not to sweat the small stuff (like an engine light on her dashboard – that is until her Mini won’t actually start any more), and she can talk the hind legs off a donkey, but none of that stops most people from thinking she’s pretty damn adorable. 
Well, most people, other than Sam, that is. 

Sam is anything but bubbly. His surly demeanour is the complete opposite of Katie's, and over the six years that she’s known him one thing has become very clear: Sam cannot stand her. The fact that he makes her nervous doesn’t help the situation. Around Sam her verbal diarrhoea seems ten times worse, the snort that she tries to hold in when she laughs refuses to be suppressed, and her clumsiness assumes clown-like proportions. 

If only he weren’t quite so intimidating, she might be able to act like a normal human being, but his sheer masculine beauty is enough to throw her off before she’s even spoken to him. Then there’s the fact that he looks at her like she’s something he’s scraped off his shoe. The combination is enough to short-circuit her brain. 

Katie may be bubbly and bright but unfortunately her past is not, and it’s started leaking into her present. She hides her fear from her friends as they have problems of their own, but when Sam finds out the potential danger she’s in, for some reason he is furious. 

Then again, there’s a reason Sam is the way he is. He has his own demons to contend with. Shutting himself off and burying his pain has been working well for him over the last six years since leaving the Special Forces, so the last thing he wants is to spend any time with the one woman that cuts through the numbness he surrounds himself with and actually makes him feel again. But he simply can’t stand by if Katie is in danger; he can’t allow her to be hurt. Unfortunately there are other ways to be hurt, and by getting closer to Katie, Sam may inflict more damage than her past ever could. 

Because Sam is damaged, and some things are beyond repair. 

My Thoughts - Story
Hmmm…my thoughts?

Well, there are a limited number of overseas books that I really enjoy and this was definitely one of them. I thought the language barrier made this book and I found it adorable.  Just as I found Katie. She was so freaking cute and made this book a winner. I loved trying to figure out what the Welsh slang meant and how everything was solved with a cup of tea!

A book like this was fast paced and the author did a great job with the characters – especially her development of Sam. From the grumpy, pompous ass that he was in the beginning to the over protective, pompous ass he was toward the end – there were so many times I wanted to smack him upside his head.

Enjoyable story from beginning to end with tons of flip flopping from Sam’s part to our comedic poster gay guy…Russell!

There was only one thing that I had a little problem with and that was the sudden switch of Sam – I think I would have liked that drawn out a bit more – especially with more of the snippy banter between Katie and Sam.

Re-Cap
Katie has always had a crush on Sam (her best friend’s husband’s best friend) but he won’t give her the time of day and even lowers himself to complain constantly about her to his friend. Until something happens to Katie that suddenly has Sam showing an over-protective streak. Between Katie’s ex-boyfriend (drug/sex dealer) stalking her to the point of it being illegal and Sam trying to get past what happened in his past – Katie seems to be the only one who can bring an ounce of happiness and sunshine to everyone.

As Katie helps Sam learn to live again, their relationship grows and secrets are shared, but are they both strong enough to make it?

Reason for Reading – Author Request

Story – 5 out of 5 Stars
Steam –  4 out of 5 Stars
Angst – 4 out of 5 Stars
Writing – 5 out of 5 Stars
Content Flow – 4.5 out of 5 Stars

HEA (Spoiler) – 

Would Read More from Author? Definitely
Recommend To – Everyone who loves a romance between a tortured soul and bubbly, rainbow living angel

Book – Something for the Pain

Series – Pain #2

Author – Victoria Ashley

Publication Date – September 28, 2015
Genre – Romance
Type – Companion Series
Cliffhanger – No
Rating – 4.5 out of 5 Stars

Complimentary copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis

Tempting, inked and highly addictive. Alex is all that and more…

I’ve made a lot of mistakes – ones I’m not proud of, and definitely ones that have left their marks both mentally and physically.

Things got lonely; I got lost in my own fucked up mind and in the end it left me fucked out of my mind and unable to fight – or at least win. That life’s over for me and I’ve moved on.

Six months into tattooing at Blue’s and already I’m the most wanted and sought out tattooist. My biggest clientele consists of women. 

They come into the shop, end up in my bed and we both come out happy. It’s been my release since I’ve stopped fighting. It’s become part of the “new” me. 

But when Tripp reappears in my life, I can’t deny the fact that I would do anything for that girl.

So when she asks me to move in with her and her ‘boyfriend’ – our other childhood friend – I never expected for things to get so fucked up and twisted that I would find myself only more attracted to her by each passing second or wanting to protect her from everything that isn’t me.

I have worked so hard over the years to suppress my feelings for her but when I find out that her and Lucas have been having an open relationship, I have the strong urge to rip his heart straight from his chest – to destroy the very thing that keeps him breathing.

What I didn’t expect was for Lucas to ask what he did. For him to ask me to do the one thing I have secretly longed for since I was old enough to know what the need was. The second thing I never expected was the look of need that I saw in Tripp’s eyes when he asked.

One night of free passion could change our lives forever. 

I never said that was a good thing either... 

My Thoughts - Story
I am NEVER disappointed when Ms Ashley messages me asking to review a new book she wrote. She has the ability to captivate me in a story and can touch each of my emotions.

She not only gives you an emotional story but has a way of incorporating steamy sexual scenes that always gives me hot flashes.

This book is another example of her pinpoint character development and one of my favorites to read about also. We have the story of a lifelong friendship on the surface with the undercurrent of more. I absolutely loved how Ms Ashley developed this relationship from friendship to lovers!! SPOT ON!

Re-Cap
Tripp and Alex have been friends for over a decade but the older they get…the more they both fight the physical attraction they feel for each other.

When the chance comes for Alex to get an apartment together with Tripp and the guy she is seeing….Alex jumps on the chance but soon enough, the sexual tension comes to all time high.

Will these two take the chance to experience more than just friendship? And if they do, is it enough for a FOREVER kind of love?

Reason for Reading – Author Request

Story – 5 out of 5 Stars
Steam –  5 out of 5 Stars
Angst – 4.5 out of 5 Stars
Writing – 5 out of 5 Stars
Content Flow – 4.5 out of 5 Stars

HEA (Spoiler) – 

Would Read More from Author? Definitely
Recommend To – Hopeless romantics who love a friends to lovers story

Book – Conscience (Bellator Saga #2)

Author – Cecilia London

Publication Date – August 17, 2015
Genre – Romance/Suspense
Type – Part of Series
Cliffhanger – Oh Yeah
Rating – 4.5 out of 5 Stars

Complimentary copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis

An escape plan foiled….

A determined woman….

One last tiny sliver of hope….

Jack will find me.

The Fed wants answers. And Caroline is determined not to provide them. They pull out all the stops, testing her sanity, testing her strength, testing her humanity.

Jack will find me.

Subject to cruel and merciless treatment at the hands of a government she once trusted, Caroline clings to her sole lifeline, her only chance at maintaining her tenuous hold on reality: her memories of her husband, Jack, her children, Marguerite and Sophie, and the friends who mean the world to her.

Jack will find me.

But what happens when hope starts to fade? How long until her interrogators cross over into the unspeakable sadism she fears ? How long before she finally breaks apart?

Part Two of a Six Part Saga. Conscience (approximately 120,000 words) is not a standalone and must be read after the first book in the Bellator Saga, Dissident. All books in the series end in a cliffhanger. For readers 18+. This book contains adult situations including graphic violence, explicit (consensual) sex and light BDSM, psychological and physical trauma, and an oftentimes raw, dark, and gritty plot.

My Thoughts - Story
Ok…so I can’t get over that cliffhanger and wondering what the hell is going to happen next! I have so many different scenarios running through my mind…especially one that I hope and pray isn’t what is going to happen.

This book has it ALL and I mean it when I say that it has steamy sex, the cries, love, romance, thrills, and so much more.

Ms. London does a kick ass job unfolding this story of Jack and Caroline…I can’t say enough about this series and please…don’t pass this one up!

Re-Cap
Too much is going on for me to give you a recap and I don’t want to spoil the first book if you haven’t read it or accidentally reveal something from this one…

Just note that this book starts where the first one ended and we learn more and more about what is going on in America and how the political parties are starting to unravel. It bounces back and forth from the past to the present and we get a deeper understanding of the love between Jack and Caroline.

The present catches up and it’s heart stopping, emotional and suspenseful ---- I found myself constantly tearing up at the end of this…nope…can’t go there without giving the story away.

Reason for Reading – Author Request/Blog Tour

Story – 4.5 out of 5 Stars
Steam –  5 out of 5 Stars
Angst – 5 out of 5 Stars
Writing – 5 out of 5 Stars
Content Flow – 4.5 out of 5 Stars

HEA (Spoiler) – Still on a cliffhanger
Would Read More from Author? Definitely
Recommend To – I think everyone should read this…just look past all the politics from the first book and give it a go!

Book – Outside

Author – Michelle Mankin

Publication Date – July 19, 2015
Genre – Romance
Type – Stand Alone (but would love books for the other band members)
Cliffhanger – No
Rating – 5 out of 5 Stars

Complimentary copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis

When handsome California surf god Lincoln Savage suddenly rolls into Ocean Beach like a rogue wave, shy beauty Simone Bianchi’s foundation is shaken. No longer under the thumb of her domineering father, she’s made a simple quiet life for herself and her fluffy fourteen pound Havanese pup running a surf shop in her hometown of OB. Long ago she gave up her dreams for a future with Linc.

But now the notorious lead singer of the Dirt Dogs has returned, and Simone is reluctant to admit that she’s still vulnerable to his killer dimpled smile and easy charm. She finds that although she’s stowed away the mementos, it hasn’t been as easy to erase the memories of their epic summer love.

It seems he hasn’t forgotten, either.

Is the recording contract he’s offering merely a pretense?

Or does he have something more in mind?

Does he really believe that they can just pick up where they left off, despite all the bad luck and heartache?

And is she willing to risk everything again for one last chance at love?

My Thoughts - Story
I can’t even express the full emotions this book brought out in me. As always, Ms. Mankin’s writing is flawless – she has the ability to keep the words flowing smoothly where you aren’t stumbling over what is happening in the story --- I can definitely compare this to a big screen movie playing in my subconscious with all the details perfected.

And the characters? Perfecto – The development is spot on and yes, you will be pissed at them. They make bad mistakes and because this book spans 15 years, the first chance of romance Linc and Simone have is a whirlwind and still very immature and childish. Their insecurities get in the way of building a lasting love.

But do they really forget that love?  That is where Ms. Mankin has the ability to flip-flop this story from the past to the present and give these characters a second chance.

Beautiful – cute – heartbreaking and soul searching! You will fall in love with the secondary characters and want to read more about them by the time you are done with this one!

Definitely a perfect book to read on the beach while watching the rip roaring hotties on their surfboards.

Re-Cap
Linc and Simone had a beautiful love affair with too many obstacles that keep getting in the way of them being together. Simone’s father is domineering while her mother is emotionally non-existent. They fight to make a go of it – sneaking around but everything changes once Linc and his band gets an opportunity to go on the road. Their relationship gets strained and Simone must make a radical decision that could cost her the love of her life.

Span over a decade and Linc is back in town to do a “last show” with his band. But Linc has other things on his mind. He wants Simone and will stop at nothing to win her back.

Reason for Reading – Author Request

Story – 5 out of 5 Stars
Steam –  5 out of 5 Stars
Angst – 5 out of 5 Stars
Writing – 5 out of 5 Stars
Content Flow – 5 out of 5 Stars

HEA (Spoiler) – [spoiler]Yes[/spoiler]

Would Read More from Author? Definitely
Recommend To – Hopeless romantics who love a roller coaster ride of emotions

Book – Fighting Shadows (On the Ropes #2)

Author – Aly Martinez

Publication Date – July 7, 2015
Genre – Romance
Type – Companion Series
Cliffhanger – No
Rating – 4.5 out of 5 Stars

Complimentary copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis

I come from a family of fighters. I always thought I’d follow in their shadows, becoming unstoppable in the ring. That changed the day I saved the life of a woman I loved, but could never have.

My brother hailed me as a hero, and my reward was a wheelchair.

Paralyzed, my life became an inescapable nightmare.

Until I met her.

Ash Mabie had a heart-stopping smile and a laugh that numbed the rage and resentment brewing inside of me. She showed me that even the darkest night still had stars, and it didn’t matter one bit that you had to lie in the weeds to see them.

I was a jaded asshole who fell for a girl with a knack for running away. I couldn’t even walk but I would have spent a lifetime chasing her.

Now, I’m on the ropes during the toughest battles of my life.
Fighting the shadows of our past.
Fighting to reclaim my future.
Fighting for her.

My Thoughts - Story
Damn, this book blew me away…I honestly didn’t think that after reading “Fighting Silence” I would love a book as much as that one, but this one definitely compares. After the first one…I couldn’t wait to get my hands on this one and as soon as the ARC hit my Kindle…I was all over this bad boy.

Oh, and don’t get me started on how pissed off I got at Flint for...almost fucking up his relationship with Ash because of his feelings for Eliza.

I love how Ms. Martinez writes her characters; they are complex and have so many layers to their personality. One minute we can hate them and the next be madly in love with them.

Ash’s character is on the top of my 2015 list for ultimate heroines…she just kicked ass and was the perfect match for Flint.

Now Flint on the other hand was messed up and a total jerk until Ash was able to draw him out of his shell and give him a reason to live and fight to walk again. His is a journey of self discovery and growing up.

I think I found a new “one click” favorite author!!

And Quarry’s story?? I am counting down the days…

Re-Cap
We start up right after “Fighting Silence” with Flint paralyzed and in the hospital dealing with the news that he may never walk again. He is bitter about his predicament but also about Till and Eliza’s relationship so he decides to go off on his own to escape the daily reminder of something he can’t have.

In pops Ash ---- his mother’s new husband’s daughter (stepsister) who is a fun loving, pick pocketing little shrew. It is hilarious how she starts to draw Flint out of his self-hatred and brooding. But again the Page brothers have nothing but obstacles and shit happen to test their strength and endurance.

Flint messes everything up with Ash and finds himself alone with the real truth hanging over his head and nothing he can do about it. Nothing stops him from righting his wrongs and finding the girl who stole his heart.

Reason for Reading – Blog Tour

Story – 5 out of 5 Stars
Steam –  4 out of 5 Stars
Angst – 5 out of 5 Stars
Writing – 5 out of 5 Stars
Content Flow – 5 out of 5 Stars

HEA (Spoiler) – 

Would Read More from Author? Yes
Recommend To – Anyone who enjoys a love story with angst

Book – Infinite Dolls

Author – Emalynne Wilder

Publication Date – June 7, 2015
Genre – Romance
Type – Stand Alone
Cliffhanger – No
Rating – 4.25 out of 5 Stars

Complimentary copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis

I had been awake for nearly twenty-seven hours straight. A part of me longed to conclude the night was all a hallucination, because nothing so short-lived should have felt so encompassing. All I could rely on was the warmth that would not subside. It blanketed over me, lulling me to sleep with blunt truth: Something in my spirit had changed, something so large that I had been woken up by a sleeping girl. —Callum Trovatto

***
Callum Trovatto entered his third year of medical school with his head down, hoping to please his hard-ass attending, and earn a passing grade. When his class is assigned to solve a differential about a girl with a rare medical condition, Callum begins to find himself drawn to the light of her spirit, craving more than to be on professional terms. But there's more than one mystery surrounding the girl, and the first begins with her name.

My Thoughts - Story
Wow…this book is gripping, emotionally draining and in some ways an affirmative lesson in life. This book through the eyes of a terminal girl gives meaning to living a full life instead of worrying about making it to the next day.

This was unique and beautiful and definitely a book that needs a ton of tissues next to your Kindle.

I think the only problem I had with it was it seemed dragged out in parts and could have been a bit more condensed to have the story flow a bit smoother.  I did find myself at times skimming parts to get to the meat of the story.

But trust me…this is not your ‘normal’ book…this is a book of life’s journey for Everly Anne and how Callum is there to give it to her.

Ms Wilder is genius at opening up this story and introducing Everly Anne into Callum’s life…Genius!

Re-Cap
Callum is a med student and has one of the hardest professors at school…a professor who introduces a girl with a terminal illness who should have died at the age of 3 but is still living. These students must figure out what her diagnosis is with spending only 5 minutes with her asking questions.

Callum is immediately mesmerized by this girl and will stop at nothing to get to know more about her. This means even jumping through hoops and making promises he doesn’t know he will be able to keep. Along the way, he falls in love with this mystery and will stop at nothing to give her life she so wants.

Reason for Reading – Author Request

Story – 4 out of 5 Stars
Steam –  4 out of 5 Stars
Angst – 5 out of 5 Stars
Writing – 5 out of 5 Stars
Content Flow – 4 out of 5 Stars

HEA (Spoiler) – 

Would Read More from Author? Yes
Recommend To – Anyone who enjoys a love story that needs tissues

Book – Four Play – Fair Play

Author – Amalie Silver

Publication Date – July 14, 2015
Genre –Romance
Type – Prequel to Word Play
Cliffhanger – No
Rating – 5 out of 5 Stars

Complimentary copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis

From the author of the Internationally Bestselling Satire Word Play comes this collection of laugh-out-loud novellas, all 
guaranteed to curl your toes and challenge your morals.

Titles include:

Surrendering to Innocence
(Previously published in Forbidden Fruit, Volume II)

Big Balls
(Previously published in Nighttides)

Debating Number Ten
(Previously published in Hot for Teacher)

Fair Play
(The brand new prequel novella to Word Play)

My Thoughts - Story
This review is based on Fair Play since I’ve already read and reviewed the other books. Yes, I’m an Amalie Silver whore who can’t get enough of her books!!

Well…ahem…getting back to the review, you all know how much I ABSOLUTELY LOVED “Word Play” and my lady bits went into overdrive when I found out that we would get more of Michael.

And again, Ms. Silver doesn’t disappoint with her dry humor and slap stick comedy…God, how I love her humor and if you happen to be her friend on Facebook, you will see her daily dose of it in the form of her children and the funny things they come up with. This just spills over into her books.

We get a deeper insight into Michael and Lauren’s first meeting and meet a few others who make this book worth reading. OMG, don’t even get me started on the references to vampire books and Kindles…and OMG...don't even get me started on the whole dominant thing....See, I’m chuckling just remembering these conversations.

Re-Cap
This is the story of how Michael and Lauren first met --- both attending a conference for the first time.

After a bit of drinking, Michael’s friend, Jack makes a bet that Michael can’t get Monica into bed. But does Michael really want Monica or her sweet (kinda nerdy) friend, Lauren flip his switch?

If you’ve read “Word Play” and want more of Michael…then this is definitely a book for you to pick up.

If you haven’t read it yet…these are two books you just have to pick up!

Reason for Reading – Author Request

Story – 5 out of 5 Stars
Steam –  5 out of 5 Stars
Angst – 5 out of 5 Stars
Writing – 5 out of 5 Stars
Content Flow – 5 out of 5 Stars

HEA (Spoiler) – 

Would Read More from Author? You couldn’t stop me from reading everything Ms. Silver writes
Recommend To – Anyone who enjoys a humorous love story

Book – Claiming Chase (A Stepbrother Romance)

Author – Charlotte Eve

Publication Date – April 30, 2015
Genre –Romance
Type – Stand Alone
Cliffhanger – No
Rating – 4 out of 5 Stars

Complimentary copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis

The red hot summer she would never forget 
From the author of Taming Blake comes this brand new standalone romance ... 

I wish I’d never met my stepbrother, Chase. That summer changed everything. He was the first boy who ever made me feel alive. But just as soon as he came into my life, he vanished. 

So what happened, Chase? Where did you go? Who did you become? Eleven years later, and I’m still searching for answers ... 

Due to scenes and descriptions of an adult nature, this novel is only suitable for those aged eighteen years and older.

My Thoughts - Story
So, this one is a bit different than your normal “step” romance. This is a story of second chances…lies…deceit…and sweet romance.

I loved how this really didn’t revolve around the whole “step” thingy but instead dealt with why Chase ran away and how a relationship could be built strong again.

The only problem I had with this story is the ending and how rushed it seemed. I think I would have liked it to be drawn out more with more detail.

Re-Cap
After Chase runs away a few months into their new family status and a breath stealing kiss, it takes 11 years for Charity to find him and make a play for him. As soon as Chase locks eyes with Charity, he wants her but something does seem familiar to him – he just can’t place it.

When Charity comes clean on who she really is – nothing can stop these two from coming together and battling their inner demons.

Reason for Reading – Author Request

Story – 4 out of 5 Stars
Steam –  4 out of 5 Stars
Angst – 3.5 out of 5 Stars
Writing – 4 out of 5 Stars
Content Flow – 3.5 out of 5 Stars

HEA (Spoiler) – 

Would Read More from Author? Possibly
Recommend To – Anyone who enjoys a second chance love story

Book – November Sky (Hardest Mistakes #2)

Author – Dannielle Wicks

Publication Date – May 19, 2015
Genre – Paranormal/Romance
Type – Stand Alone Series
Cliffhanger – No
Rating – 3.5 out of 5 Stars

Complimentary copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis

A heartbreaking loss.

A love that transcends mortality.

A struggle between holding on and letting go…

KRISTIAN REED is only seventeen years old when his girlfriend, JESSICA SCOTT, dies in a tragic accident. Devastated and burdened with guilt, he finds it impossible to move on.

Six years later, he’s not doing any better. He’s accepted a prestigious internship at a big city news station, but he’s still losing himself in alcohol and women to numb his pain.

Jessica might be dead, but she’s not gone—at least not anymore…

She is pulled from Purgatory, and thanks to the presence of a personal memento, Kristian can see and feel her. But how can the ghost of his first love expect to be a part of his future?

BAILEY NICHOLS is assertive and annoying, but something draws her and Kristian together. Her brother hates him, but Bailey is used to getting what she wants. She knows the pain of losing people you love, and she’s determined to break through Kristian’s emotional wall and prove they belong together.

Jessica is caught between worlds. She can’t let go of Kristian, but she’s not meant to be here, and her lingering is threatening everyone and everything around her as she begins to lose herself to the darkness.

My Thoughts - Story
I have to be honest and let you know that I absolutely HATED Bailey…she annoyed me something fierce but I think it was because I had already chosen my side with Jessica.

Yeah, I know she wasn’t really alive and was only hurting Kristian by being around him…but their love story was so sweet and special before she died.

Yeah, Kristian deserved to be happy but in a perfect world…Jessica would come back to life and make his world whole again – oh yeah…and crush Bailey in the process.

Sorry – I just had a soft spot for Jessica. She didn’t ask for this!

Re-Cap
Kristian and Jessica had the perfect relationship with their future all planned out until a tragic accident. Kristian is left on his own to pick up the pieces and years later still isn’t doing well without the love of his life.

Until Jessica shows up again (only to Kristian) ---- but in the meantime at Kristian’s new job there is another intern, Bailey, who won’t leave him alone. She pesters him to spend time with her…take her out…get out of his apartment and just have fun.

What will happen when you have 2 girls fighting for the love of a man?

Reason for Reading – Author Request

Story – 4 out of 5 Stars
Steam –  3 out of 5 Stars
Angst – 4 out of 5 Stars
Writing – 4 out of 5 Stars
Content Flow – 3 out of 5 Stars

HEA (Spoiler) – 

Would Read More from Author? Yes
Recommend To – Anyone who enjoys a love story with a bit of a triangle

Book – Let Me Love You (Australian Sports Stars #2)

Author – Iris Blobel

Publication Date – January 23, 2015
Genre – Romance
Type – Companion Series
Cliffhanger – No
Rating – 3.5 out of 5 Stars

Complimentary copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis

Oliver Dempsey, pitcher for a Melbourne baseball club, loves the women, and they love him…
But he keeps them at an arm’s length, and when he meets Tamara, he’s unprepared for the attraction he feels for her. Told by his coach that she’s off limits, only draws him in more. 

Tamara Amis moved to Melbourne to find some distance between her past and herself… 
With the help of her uncle, the coach of a Melbourne baseball club, she quickly finds a job, and a place to live. Yet, one meeting with the handsome pitcher stirs unexpected emotions that threaten to overwhelm her. 

It’s Oliver’s injury that brings them together, but as they find out about each other’s pasts, how can they be ready to share a future?

My Thoughts - Story
I really liked this story with the inner turmoils both  Oliver and Tamara have to deal with, but I had one major problem with it…and shoot, I can’t tell you because it will give away the plot but I can say that sometimes “absence can be a bitch”.

The characters were developed well and their emotional obstacles are definitely what helped to bond with them during the story.

Re-Cap
Oliver is a pitcher who is dealing with an injury but also is having the best season ever when he meets the Coach’s niece. He can’t understand why she is aloof and standoffish but he sets about to break that wall down.

Through it all they have many emotional and physical obstacles to overcome but sometimes even those are too hard to defeat.

Reason for Reading – Author Request

Story – 4 out of 5 Stars
Steam –  3.5 out of 5 Stars
Angst – 3.5 out of 5 Stars
Writing – 4 out of 5 Stars
Content Flow – 3 out of 5 Stars

HEA (Spoiler) – 

Would Read More from Author? Yes
Recommend To – Anyone who enjoys a love story with a bunch of turmoil

Book – A Jar of Dreams

Author – Clarissa Cartharn

Publication Date – 2015
Genre – Romance
Type – Stand Alone
Cliffhanger – Hmmm? God, I hope so
Rating – 4 out of 5 Stars

Complimentary copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis

He was the assassin running for his life and she was the blind refuge who gave him reason to stop and fight for theirs 

When Eric Tanner, an assassin, is targeted to be murdered by his former employer, he seeks refuge in the house of a blind woman, Anne Mullen. 

Eric knows how to live in silence. He’s done it all his life. So when he discovers Anne is blind and living on her own, he thinks this would be his perfect hideout. 

But then he makes the mistake of his life. He forms an attachment to her. And for a man in his profession, such attachments are a weakness. Now, he must do everything he can to protect Anne from the world he’s come from.

My Thoughts - Story
So I went into this book not expecting very much from the ratings, but I was surprised and amazed at how quickly I connected with the characters.

Anne is a strong character and despite her disability, she is sweet, caring and lovable. Eric may have made many bad choices in his life, but shit…he really deserved the love of Anne.

Dual POV’s is always a plus in my ratings along with strong heroines and lovable hero’s (even if they can be considered bad guys).

My feelings about this book range from…

to mid way through the book...

but then at the ending I was...

and...

So, you can see why I didn’t rate this a full 5 stars!

Now to get to the ending…part of me wants to believe that a second book will null and void any animosity I have toward Ms. Cartharn for the pain she caused me with that twist of fate.

Personal Note to Author: You better redeem yourself in the next book – I want more of Eric!

Re-Cap
What do you get when you cross an assassin with a blind woman who has a heart of gold?

You get an emotional love story full of surprises and “ahh” moments.

Eric first saw Anne when they were children and was instantly mesmerized by her. Years later running from a botched job that was meant to set him up, he sees Anne again living alone. Looking for a place to hide out and wanting to know more about his childhood crush, he places himself into her life.

But a love affair between the two of them comes with obstacles – those that consist of her father who has other plans for Anne and a bounty set on Eric’s head.

Will these two fight the odds and find their happily ever after?

Reason for Reading – Author Request

Story – 5 out of 5 Stars
Steam –  4 out of 5 Stars
Angst – 4 out of 5 Stars
Writing – 4 out of 5 Stars
Content Flow – 3.5 out of 5 Stars

HEA (Spoiler) – 

Would Read More from Author? Yes
Recommend To – Anyone who enjoys a love story with a bunch of angst

Book – Cold January (The Dog Tags & Badges Series #2)

Author – Amanda Springer

Publication Date –June 5, 2015
Genre – Romance/Thriller/Suspense
Type – Stand Alone Series
Cliffhanger – No
Rating – 4.25 out of 5 Stars

Complimentary copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis

Erin walked through the big house to the kitchen to pour another cup of coffee. She turned on the kitchen light and made her way across the room. Suddenly she began to hear gun shots and glass breaking. Instantly, she dropped to the floor. Laying on the kitchen floor between the island and counter she took her cell phone from the back pocket of her blue jeans to call 911. 

Closing her eyes tight as several bullets were flying into her home, she talked to the dispatcher while she faced the hardwood floor on her stomach. A bullet hit a red vase full of flowers that had been sitting on the island just above her. Glass and water poured over her as she laid there with her hands covering her head. Closing her eyes tight, these few short seconds seemed like they were lasting forever. Then, just as mysteriously as it all started, it just stopped. 

After all the loud noises, the quiet was eerie. In the silence of not knowing, she found a fear that she had never experienced before. At least when they were out front shooting at her house she knew where this person was. Was something else going to happen? Was the person still out there? She was afraid to move from her safe spot on the kitchen floor.

My Thoughts - Story
Please, don’t even read the synopsis if you are looking to find out what this book is about. It doesn’t do the storyline justice. This book is filled with twists, mysteries, angst and the moments of…”I never saw that coming”.

Yes, there were editing issues and some content problems, but overlooking that…this book with the right help could be a best seller or shit, even a Lifetime movie!

Re-Cap
I don’t want to give the plot away…so I’m going to try to keep it as vague as possible.

Shit starts to happen to Erin after her husband dies ---- who is out to get her?

Reason for Reading – Author Request

Story – 5 out of 5 Stars
Steam –  3.5 out of 5 Stars
Angst – 4 out of 5 Stars
Writing – 3.5 out of 5 Stars
Content Flow – 3.5 out of 5 Stars

HEA (Spoiler) – 

[spoiler]

Yes

[/spoiler]
Would Read More from Author? Yes
Recommend To – Anyone who loves plot twists