StarAngel's Reviews

Book – The Junior Bridesmaid

Author – Amy Baker

Publication Date – March 2014

Type – Stand Alone

Genre – Romance

Rating – 4 1/2 out of 5 Stars

Book provided by Author in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis

Sixteen-year-old Delilah Welling never understood why Darcy Strong despised her so much. Especially since their mothers had been friends for a lifetime. So when Delilah is asked to be The Junior Bridesmaid in Darcy's wedding, Delilah is understandably surprised and reluctant to say yes. Upon her mother's insistence, Delilah finally agrees determined to look at the bright side. 

And there couldn’t be a brighter side than Hugh Rowen, a.k.a. the groom. Delilah has always been in love with Hugh and could never understand what a nice guy like Hugh was doing with a wench like Darcy. 

Before the wedding, Delilah discovers that the bride-to-be is keeping a torrid secret. Fearful that she will hurt Hugh, she remains silent, going about her Junior Bridesmaid duties as planned.

Until...

All hell breaks loose during the wedding ceremony. Embarrassed and devastated, Delilah flees the wedding. But not before hurting the love of her life. 

Twelve years later, Delilah is 28 and living a happy existence in New York. Until one day when she receives a message addressed to JUNIOR? Has Hugh hunted her down twelve years later to exact revenge or is he in New York for a different reason entirely? Either way, twelve years is a long time to wait to find out!

***This is a stand alone novel meant for mature readers over the age of 18 due to mature content and language.***

Review

Well, I have to say the beginning of this book was one big “side holding” laugh!  I fell in love with 16 year old Delilah and her antics.  When we get to the point of Delilah at 28 – she is such a peach – trying to be the sophisticated suave corporate worker, instead we get blunders and flashbacks to her “southern” charms.

This book had me laughing but at the same time plotting ways to kill Delilah’s co-worker….oh just wait till you meet her and her scheming sadistic ways….ugh the bitch makes me want to back hand her in the worse way.  Poor poor Delilah always seems to get the worse end of the stick.  And even when things start to go her way and Hugh is back in her life….the black cloud hanging over her head refuses to go away.

The author takes us on a trip through comedic humor and sobering obstacles in love and the chance for true love.  This was a book; I just couldn’t tear my eyes away knowing that the next page was going to be filled with more heart breaking moments and knee slapping humor.

The only problem I had with the story was Hugh’s attitude on a relationship with Delilah.  I thought long and hard on how he could suddenly after 12 years move right into a relationship that should have taken years to build.  Then I finally got it….the answer was right under my nose the whole time and I missed it.  Pay attention to the details of why Hugh showed up in New York – who told him what – and what happened with his friend when he was a teenager.

Re-Cap

We open the story with Delilah as a 16 flat-chested lanky Junior Bridesmaid in a wedding where the bride absolutely hates her and makes her life a living hell.  Oh and just wait till the wedding and what utterly embarrassing moment happens with Delilah.  (Make sure you don’t have any liquid in your mouth when you read about her walk down the aisle.)

Fast forward 12 years and Delilah is living comfortably in corporate America – her relationships are few and far between because she just doesn’t experience the connection she felt with Hugh in the past.  She knows that Hugh is her one true love and she will never have him because of shattering his happiness 12 years prior.

Then one fateful day – she receives a note addressed to “Junior” stating that he is in New York and wants to meet.  Delilah worries that he is only there to extract his revenge on her for ruining his life and it is hard for Delilah to trust what Hugh says is the truth and not just a plot to hurt her.

Experience the ups and downs while Delilah and Hugh come to terms with their past and put to rest the ghosts that continually haunt Delilah.  But not only do they have to worry about past demons…but there seems to be 2 demons who have it out for Delilah and will stop at nothing to tear Hugh from her life and knock her down to the bottom.

Wrap-Up

Such a cute and funny read about true love and healing old wounds!  If you are looking for a book that will make you smile and fall in love with the characters, this is the book for you!

"OVER"

I am hosting the Release Blitz and looking for Bloggers/FB to post a Promo on either March 7,8 or 9!  If you are interested please fill out this form

Book – This Regret

Author – Victoria Ashley

Publication Date – February 28, 2014

Type – Stand Alone?? Or not?

Genre – Romance, New Adult

Rating – 4 3/4 out of 5 Stars

Book provided by Author in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis

Phoenix has been stumbling through life since her brother Adric's tragic death but after eight years, she is finally piecing what remains together. She has a nice apartment, a steady job and not to mention a fresh new 'relationship' with her childhood friend, Kade Haze. He's the sexy boy next door she never even dreamed of falling for, but can’t seem to stop the pull she feels toward him.

Just when life began to make sense again and a feeling of normalcy was on the horizon, Phoenix's carefully constructed walls come crashing down. 

When walking into the tattoo shop one day, the last thing she’s expecting to see is Kellan Haze, Adric’s best friend no one has seen or heard from since the day they found her brother’s body. He’s nothing as she remembers him as a child, with his wild messy hair, tattoos that cover most of his undeniably sexy body and eyes so intense it makes her legs quiver with one look. The one thing even she can’t deny is the instant rush she feels just by being in his presence.

But how can you choose between love and lust when one of these hold a dark secret, one that can crush your world to pieces and leave you gasping for air. Who can you trust when your mind is pulling you in two different directions and your heart has to choose for you?

The Haze brothers are sexy, daring and possibly . . . dangerous.

This Regret is a story of love, lust, betrayal and danger with an ending that no one saw coming.

Review

Ms. Ashley just keeps getting better and better with her story telling.  From the moment I picked up this book to read – it was instant attraction.  I don’t know if it had to do with the suffering our heroine was going through or the sexy tattooed, pierced hero. 

This story deals with heartbreak and a future of healing – when all else feels that our heroine is just existing without feeling – holding her emotions in while always hoping for the past to finally “right” itself – she gets the biggest surprise of her life.  It’s not a surprise of total exuberance, but one of hurt feelings and so many questions left unanswered.

This book was raw…it invoked such raw feelings that I couldn’t get enough it.  Every single fucking emotion in me was tested in this book – I laughed, I cried, I swooned, I got angry and then frightened.  What a fantastic and superb writer Ms. Ashley is to bring out so many of my emotions – I just can’t get enough praise to her work.

I first met Ms. Ashley when she contacted our blog to review her first book “Wake Up Call” – Another book that engrossed me from the first to the last page.  For a debut novel, it was a success in my book…..but this one? Holy freakin Hell….this book way surpasses her first!  When she contacted me again and asked me to read it --- I jumped on that shit – knowing the type of story teller she is….and I wasn’t denied another journey in the life of a messed up heroine.

Ms. Ashley….I just have to tell you, that if you continue to write stories like this….it will be no time until you hit the best seller list!

Ohhh…you are probably wondering why I took a ¼ star off?  It’s kinda lame but I got in trouble at work for crying at my desk.  Yeah, I suck!

Re-Cap

Beware of the Prologue!

I can’t write much about the story since the book hasn’t been released yet but I’ll give you a bit of a teaser….Phoenix is our heroine and is in a bad place – this is a place she has been in for the past 8 years ever since her brother died and his best friend took off without a word on the same night.

She goes through her day to day functions not really connecting with much emotionally – for some strange reason Kade (Kellan’s brother and her best friend) is starting to put the moves on Phoenix and she wonders what it would be like to start up a “just for fun” relationship with him.

He takes her for a tattoo one day and leaves to run an errand – once in the shop she is met with the most gorgeous man she has ever seen but something is not right with him….he reminds her of someone but it couldn’t be…..or can it?

Follow Phoenix, Kellan and Kade along with their friends and some of their enemies in a story of suspense, mystery, second chances and redemption.

Wrap-Up

I can’t promote this book enough – it had everything I ever wanted in a story all strategically wrapped in a whirlwind of a book!

Just as I thought it was pretty depressing ending the story where it did….and it would have been really cool to get further stories from some of the other characters in the book….I was made partial to some very exciting news!

Book – Her Master’s Courtesan

Author – Lily White

Publication Date – February 20, 2014

Type – Stand Alone

Genre –Dark, Erotica

Rating – 5 out of 5 Stars (Average of 3 reviewers)

Book provided by Author in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis

I am a Master. 

You must know this fact to understand my story.

I capture women. 

I break them down. 

And I rebuild them. 

If they are lucky, they are sold into the professional hands of another Master. If they are less fortunate, they are buried beneath the ground, never to be thought of again.

I lust for the control, I demand absolute submission and my body yearns to warp the minds of those I train.

Power is the only thing I’ll ever need and I am addicted to the feeling of ultimate control.

I am wealthy, good-looking, educated and charming. 

And I am - in no way - a good man. 

I do not want love. 
I do not want kindness.

She thought she could change me by giving me the two things I knew I never wanted.

She was wrong.

Discussion Review between JaHy~Jenna~Carol

Carol

OK....here's some thoughts

I hate Aiden....but I can't help being turned on by him

I think Rebecca <spoiler>caved too quickly</spoiler>

What's up with the dude Duke <spoiler>fucking dead people</spoiler>?

What's up with the cook/maid who just sits by and idly watches? <spoiler>You think when Aiden suggested she bring her grand-daughter to ride horses...she would have laughed in his face and said "No Way am I bringing a girl around you"</spoiler> She knows what he does....

I wish I could read right now instead of having to post shit! (that's off the subject of the book) 

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Jenna

This book is PISSING ME OFF!!! I was in LOVE with it and then she has to <spoiler>go kidnap her "best" friend who wasn't that great anyways, but still!!!! </spoiler>PISS I AM!

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Carol’s Response to Jenna

I hope you got to the point of understanding why she did that....<spoiler>she was programmed/brainwashed and then finding out the information she did it only sealed the deal.</spoiler> 

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JaHy’s Comments

Aiden 's a bastard but he owns it so I respect the character. He doesn't pretend to be someone's he's not. He started training at a very young age...too young. He got to experience greed before he ever had a chance to experience love , hence his FUCKED up mentality. I think he's capable of love and doesn't know it.. 

Rebecca fell in love pretty quickly and she did something that really pissed me off. I would hope I wouldn't do what she did if I were in her shoes. 

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Carol’s Response to JaHy

Good point JaHy - I agree with you 100% as much as I would have loved <spoiler>for Aiden to experience true love...and maybe as the years progress the nurture from Rebecca will achieve that </spoiler>....he owned his title of "Master" to the tee!

This is definitely a lesson in psychology for the nature vs. nurture debate - he was programmed from an early age and knows nothing else. 

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Jenna

After I finished the book I felt like something was off or I missed something. I'm not 100% sure what it is, but I think I would rate it a 4.5. I wanted to take some time last night to really think about it b/c honestly, my emotions were ALL over the place. But, I went to bed instead.

I do understand now why she did it, but it reminded me of Survivor (JF Gonzalez) a bit. Made my heart hurt. 

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Carol’s Response to Jenna

I think I felt the same way...my emotions were all over the place also. I wanted him to say something positive about Rebecca besides her being like him and also a good sub.

But I give SO MUCH credit to Lily for sticking true to the "dark" theme and not relenting. She is getting a lot of sass about it being so dark...she is going to have to put in another warning to keep the pansy readers happy.

I'm with you honey...4.5 stars

*hugs and love 

OK...so I stayed up late last night and finished it....I'm torn between giving this a 5 star rating and a 4 1/2

I know it's dark....but the romantic in me would have loved <spoiler>to have a HEA with Aiden professing his love. </spoiler> But then again...<spoiler>I like how he didn't.</spoiler>

I was also a bit put off on the whole Aiden <spoiler>coming to the rescue on the same day that Duke was going to "off" Rebecca. A tad bit unbelievable and easy.</spoiler>

I didn't cry...I felt sad and depressed while reading and I kinda got pissed at Rebecca for <spoiler>giving up her best friend and beating her ---- Choosing Aiden over her - it was explainable with the things that Kesley did to Rebecca...but still</spoiler>

I would definitely give a 5 star rating to the mindfuckery in the book....Aiden NEVER once was conflicted in his twisted mind. 

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Carol

My positive points are the steam factor and how Aiden stuck to his guns about wanting total control over Rebecca - I loved Rebecca's character and how she fought back over and over again even though she seemed weak.

The author's style of writing was like a movie unfolding in front of me. She kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time with anticipation crawling through my skin and blood. I could picture each scene exactly down to the finest detail because Ms White used such graphic descriptions that didn't take away from the story in general!

The shock factor was high which is a major + in my book. This was definitely a book where I couldn't figure out what was going to happen next.

This author took us on a journey through a new and different realm - yes, there have been books about slave training...but one's I have read always ends up with a HEA....<spoiler>this well - not so much. </spoiler>

Negative Points......

<spoiler>The final scene with Duke...too unbelievable

The housekeeper

The deception of Rebecca

Gail not getting what was coming to him </spoiler>

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JaHy’s Response

Carol,
I think in a way it was <spoiler> a HEA.. she got to stay with him... and he can say he doesn't love her all he wants but that's crap. He does, he just doesn't realize it.. She wasn't allowed to fuck her submissives, just break them... because he doesn't want anyone else tapping that pussy....</spoiler> BECAUSE he cares.

I thought for sure <spoiler>she was going to die.. The ending made me okay with her helping him kidnap best friend.. NO, I don't agree with it, BUT it would take a dark soul to put your best friend in danger like that. Her only remorse was that her friend would have to fuck him; she didn't care what happened to her friend. </spoiler>

As far as her breaking so easy.. I kind of understood that as well.. I'm that way.. I give things my all, ie fight, fight, fight, fight.. but once I feel like I'm fighting an endless battle, I completely shut down/ give up.. I'm all or nothing kind of gal.. I think Rebecca's character was the same way. 

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Jenna

I am still having a hard time writing what I want to say though. One thing I am sure of is that I did not like the person Rebecca turned out being. I understand how she could act the way she did, but I still hated it. I don't understand how a person could act the way she did, <spoiler>giving up her friend to slavery WITHOUT knowing that her friend had been sleeping with the guy.</spoiler> Does that make sense? I did love that she wasn't a giant whiny bitch like most chicks are in books these days, unless you count the time <spoiler>she had the temper tantrum. </spoiler>

I agree with Jahy that I think <spoiler>secretly (or whatever you want to call it) Aiden loved Rebecca, otherwise he wouldn't care if she screwed the other slaves.</spoiler> BUT, I thought it was a bit ridiculous that she "fell" for Aiden SO QUICKLY after she was taken (what was it, 2 weeks?) Given the circumstances I guess that could happen. In fact, I can actually see it happening... so maybe you want to scratch that. :) 

It was a dark read, but it was a bit more than that given <spoiler>what the Duke was doing to those girls.</spoiler>  Almost horror, but not quite. Maybe that does qualify as dark?? Those poor girls by the way. :( <spoiler>He was feeding them to his dogs??? </spoiler>

I HATED that the nasty perv did not get what was coming to him!!! Was that Gail? I am so bad with names... 

Those are my thoughts in a nut shell I think. I still feel something is missing, but hey, maybe someday it will come to me. :) 

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JaHy

this is another reason why I gave the book 6 stars.. it's a book that stays with you and really makes you think.. I DID HATE the insta love on Rebecca's behalf, but I let it pass because so many other things were happening throughout the story that it was in the for front of my mind.. <spoiler> Aiden saving her in the nick of time was disappointing.. I was soo blown away by the Rebecca revelation that I just had to give it 5 stars.. I swore she was going to die. I NEVER saw it coming. </spoiler>

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Jenna

<spoiler>I figured she'd kick the duke's ass somehow to be honest. I didn't see Aiden coming to save her, especially not just in the nick of time, but figured SOMEHOW she would find her way back to him, although I don't think he deserves her. </spoiler>

It was a very good book and obviously it also stayed with me if I am still trying to figure it out. :) 

<spoiler>I did not see her killing Trenton though, </spoiler> that whole part caught me completely by surprise. 

I would absolutely recommend the book. Mostly because it is different than anything I've read in a LONG time. I think readers are really going to enjoy it. 

Wrap-Up

Well…there you have it – we read the book – we lived the life in Rebecca’s shoes and now we are sharing our opinions with you.  We all loved the book and had different emotions at the end – we each brought a unique feeling to the table to share with you.

Rounding out our stars – we come up with a perfect 5 Star Rating!!  If you like dark….I mean serious DARK…you will fall in love with this book!  Just be warned….this ain’t no rainbows and unicorns shit….

Book – The Scars of Us

Author – Nikki Narvaez

Publication Date – February 9, 2014

Type – Stand Alone

Genre –Romance, New Adult

Rating – 4 out of 5 Stars

Book provided by Author (for Release Blitz) in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis

Kaiya Marlow has always been cautious, precise in every decision she makes. When her dark past threatens to resurface, she decides to take precautions to protect herself by enrolling in self-defense classes at her gym.

Her instructor, Ryker Campbell, is the tattooed womanizer everyone warns about. Kaiya attempts to resist Ryker's advances, but the more time they spend training together, the harder it is for Kaiya to resist him.

Ryker's view on relationships is simple: strictly sex, nothing more. Haunted by demons from his past, he never allows himself to become attached to any woman. No attachment means no weakness, no vulnerability, no pain. He doesn't realize that his whole world is about to be turned upside down when Kaiya enters his self-defense class. Determined to have her, at least for one night, Ryker sets a plan into motion that will change both of their lives forever.

Will love be able to heal their scars, or are they too deep to overcome?

Review

I see-sawed back and forth between a 3 ½ and a 4 rating – where I loved the story and how womanizer, Ryker turned into a romantic hero, it was a bit annoying in the beginning with Kaiya running away and then changing her mind.

Ryker’s character was swoon worthy and just the perfect mix to bring Kaiya out of her depression and PTSD.  The author was able to dive into the psyche of two individuals struggling with past traumatic events that left scar upon scar on them.  In the case of Kaiya it wasn’t just the emotional scars she was dealing with but physical ones as well.

The author has the ability to draw the reader into the character’s feelings and experience the devastation of remembering along with the joyfulness of finding peace and happiness.

Re-Cap

Kaiya is plagued with nightmares, the inability to be touched along with not being able to form solid relationships living with her brother while trying to cope with her past.  She was abused throughout her childhood not only physically and mentally but also sexually by a family member.  It all surfaced with a knife held at her throat and death being the next move if her brother hadn’t come to her rescue.

8 years later Kaiya decides to change gyms and take a self-defense class in which she finds comfort with the instructor, Ryker.  Ryker has his own demons to deal with and is unable to form any type of relationship other than one-night stands.  Well, that is until he meets Kaiya but she continually dodges his advances and flat out tells him that she is damaged goods.

This stirs the challenge in Ryker to get what he wants, but he is in for a surprise because he never expected to feel the stirrings of love.

Experience the happiness, relief and healing Ryker and Kaiya go through in their own journey of love.

Wrap-Up

A heart-felt read that captivates the reader into an emotional turmoil that has you cheering and gasping.

Will Kaiya win against her past demons?

Will Ryker?

Book – Rules of Harte (Harte #1)

Author – Brooke Harris

Publication Date – January 12, 2014

Type – Part of Series

Genre –Romance

Rating – 4 out of 5 Stars

Book provided by Author in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis

Evangeline Andrews doesn’t want him, but she needs him. Julian Harte doesn’t need anyone, but he wants her. 

Eva has been passed over her whole life. A happy home, men, fashion sense…it all eludes her. She’s run away from New Jersey to find sanctuary in Dublin. But the office bitch, a nymphomaniac best friend and the nice-guy-she’s-just-not-sure-about all threaten to complicate things. 

The company social event of the year is looming. Everyone who’s anyone in the office will be at the masquerade ball. Eva has been invited, well, instructed to attend by her mysterious boss - or else. But she can’t go alone. 

Enter Julian Harte, a sexy escort with a fascination for games. Eva is about to learn the rules are complicated and Julian doesn’t do losing. 

Will Eva’s thick skin be enough to protect her when all the masks come down? Or will she discover she’s not the only one wearing more than one mask? 

Let the games begin. 

Recommended for 17+ years 
Adult content and language

Review

I have mixed feelings on this one….on one side – I loved this hot – steamy read….but then on the other hand – I had a hard time believing Eva would be so naïve and gullible along with an office not screaming SEXUAL HARASSMENT!

Now in a fantasy world…this would be the most spectacular read with shy – cardigan sweater wearers all walking around with their heads in the clouds never putting 2 and 2 together.  I also would have liked to learn more about Eva’s past. I keep going back and have to shake my head at the other girls in the office and their nonchalant attitude about boning their boss who they never even saw his face.  And Mr. Doe? If I was Eva…I would have ran for hills the first time stepping in Mr. Doe’s office and then learning the “ins and outs” (yes, that is a pun) of the office politics.

Putting the above aside….it was a very creative story and such a sensual read (I did cringe once-not going there) My libido skyrocketed while reading the things Julian said and did to Eva….yes, it was that erotic and panty-dripping!

I do want to read the next book in this series – I think I will enjoy that one more now that the bullshit is all out in the open.  Will Eva be able to put aside the past of Julian?  Will she be going back to New Jersey so we can learn more about her past?

Re-Cap

Eva is not even a thought in the office – she is shy and prefers to blend into the woodwork, but there is a problem…..a masquerade party is coming up soon and she needs a date to stand out.  She puts all morals aside and looks into an escort service….in pops Julian….Julian likes to play games and the game he sets his sights on is Eva.  Can Julian bring Eva out of her shell and help her gain the self-confidence she needs in life?

Julian opens a new world for Eva and slowly she peels off the layers protecting herself – a ravaging beauty starts to emerge while Eva starts attracting the attention of a fellow co-worker along with the big head haunch-o.  What will Eva do?  Nick on one end is safe and dorky like she feels she is….Julian is just an escort who doesn’t believe in relationships…..Mr. Doe is so mysterious and rumors that float around the water-cooler would have anyone fanning themselves.

Eva has to make a choice – she is the pawn in this game but also the master of game!

Wrap-Up

A very unbelievable creative story that had my heart pumping and my thighs clenching and I just can’t wait for the next story in this series!

Book – Carnage Book #1. The Story of Us

Author – Lesley Jones

Publication Date – February 14, 2014

Type – Book #1 of 2

Genre –Romance

Rating – 4 1/2 out of 5 Stars

Book provided by Author (part of Release Blitz) in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis

I love him, from the instant I set eyes on him when I was just 11 years old I have loved him and nothing will ever change that, he owns me, he owns my heart and he owns my body and no matter how many lies are told, no matter how many people conspire to keep us apart, despite the fame and the distance, we will find a way.

"Georgia Rae, when we made love you used to cry" ... He waits for me to sing my bit. I try to swallow down a sob but I just end up singing through it...
"I said I love you like the stars above, I'll love you till I die"

Carnage is an edgy coming of age love story that breaks all the rules and transcends the decades. Georgia and Sean's story will stay with you long after you read the final word. 
An emotional, smoking hot, gut wrenching read.

This is part #1 of a 2 part story but can be read as a stand alone.

Review

I am completely gutted right now….the tears are streaming down my face as I try to put my thoughts on paper and I continue to have that ending play over and over in my heart and in my head.  I was going to wait to do the review until I had a chance to let it all settle down, but I just couldn't – the thoughts are raw, they are fresh and they are heart-felt. 

This book had a very slow beginning but don’t give up on it….because once it picks up – the story flows with happiness, heartbreak, angst and true love.  Oh My God….I’m crying again….My heart is torn because half way through – I was so against Sean (see status update) – I wanted G with Cam because what he felt for her was REAL – Now, I’m not saying what Sean felt was any different or less but at that moment – I was Team Cam.

As the story progressed – I fell in love with Sean all over again and wanted a HEA for him and Gia.  I felt it through my soul that they were meant to be together no matter what obstacles life had to throw at them.

Saying that, I honestly believe that Ms. Jones is a very talented author….her ability to make you love a character, hate a character and then fall back in love with that same one over and over again is amazing.  The connection she wrote about between Gia and Sean and G and Cam was above and beyond simple – it was an intricate web of friendship, love, lies, sadness and just plain life.

So, I know you want to ask me “Why not a 5 Star rating?” – Well, some of the story was hard to understand with the dialect and words used overseas that had me scratching my head at times or going back to re-read a paragraph to understand the culture difference of slang.  Another reason was the slow beginning and then it kind of slowed up a bit about 70% in….few grammatical errors but didn’t count that since this was a pre-edited ARC.

Please, please – I beg you Ms. Jones – don’t make me wait long for the 2^nd book – I know the ending isn’t really a cliffhanger – it could end this way but don’t leave me in this state of depression! I don’t know what else to say right now – maybe I will add more once the pain in my heart subsides a bit.

Re-Cap

When Georgia was only 11 years old, she met her future husband – the love of her life.  Sean is the lead singer of Carnage but never questions his attraction and love for Gia but being in a band that is rising to the top of the world – he makes a mistake that will cost him his happiness.

Georgia stays in a state of depression and heart-break for 4 years until finally she meets a man who stirs more than just lust – meet Cam.  Kitten and Cam make a go at it and just when it seems that she can put the past hurts behind her…..who does she run into?

Well, my little lovelies….I’m not giving the story away.  Pick up this book and find out for yourself what gutted me, what made me have to walk away for a few hours in order to calm down and what made me ready to go beat down Ms. Jones’ door and hold her hostage till #2 is written!

Wrap-Up

There are no words to describe the impact this story will have on you.  “Feelings” so many feelings wrapped up in a few hundred pages – just waiting to share them with you.

Take the time…curl up with your e-reader and live the life through Georgia’s eyes and heart.

Book – Fierce (Fierce #1)

Author – Clarissa Wild

Publication Date – January 25, 2014

Type – Part of Series

Genre –Romance, New Adult

Rating – 3 out of 5 Stars

Book provided by Author in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis

Nerdy girl Autumn Blakewood is the prime example of a goody two-shoes. She studies every night, is never late for class, and always follows the rules. She has never felt the need to step out of her comfort zone. That is, until she meets Hunter.

Hunter Bane is a cocky, confident bad-boy, who's nothing but trouble. He’s a dangerous distraction to everyone around him. Sexy and strong, Hunter enjoys the swooning effect he has on women. Especially those who aren't used to attention, like Autumn.

Autumn finds it hard not to give into Hunter’s advances, even though it all seems like a game to him. Trying to understand him is impossible, because he shrouds himself in mystery. 

What she doesn't know is that Hunter has more baggage than anyone should have to carry. When she discovers he's in an illegal frat club to save the one person that matters to him, Autumn realizes this could mean the end of her undeniable connection to him. Even their lives are at risk.

But it's too late to turn back now ...

Review

It was OK – not great – but readable till the end.  I had some problems with the characters and how they didn’t stay “true to form”.  For example, Autumn was supposed to be a shy virgin but in turn she was getting into trouble and putting her 2 cents in left and right.  While Hunter was supposed to be this big bad Alpha guy….while the only badness in him was his mood swings and his constant changing of his mind.

I was also confused in what exactly Hunter was involved in.  It may have been me and my feeble mind but I just didn’t get it.  Was it a frat?  Was it a gang? And why the hell would he bring Autumn into the middle of it?  Just to shut her up?

In all actuality – to sum this up – the story needed to flow and it fell short of coming together and fitting properly.  The premise of the story is good – Bad boy, virgin girl, dickhead old friend, drugs, addicts, death, secret love F/F, fighting etc.  It just seemed to me to be all over the place.

I hate doing these reviews and it kills me but as I always believe – “honesty is the best policy”.

Re-Cap

Autumn is your typical NA shy virgin (at least in the beginning of the story) who has been teased while growing up for being so nerdy.  She catches the attention of bad boy, Hunter, who instantly clamps himself to her side.  Every time she turns around, Hunter is somewhere close.  She knows he is bad news but can’t help herself from being attracted to him.

Autumn must deal with an old friend who has turned into a total ass-wipe and a room-mate who continues to act possessive and bitchy.  The more Autumn gets to Hunter, the deeper she falls and learns there are more secrets to Hunter than what she thought.

Wrap-Up

This book has the ability to be a high rated read once the edges are sanded out and all the bumps are smooth.

Book – Transcendence

Author – Shay Savage

Publication Date – February 14, 2014

Type – Stand-Alone

Genre –Romance

Rating – 4 1/2 out of 5 Stars

Book provided by Author (part of Release Blitz) in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis

It’s said that women and men are from two different planets when it comes to communication, but how can they overcome the obstacles of prehistoric times when one of them simply doesn’t have the ability to comprehend language?

Ehd’s a caveman living on his own in a harsh wilderness. He’s strong and intelligent, but completely alone. When he finds a beautiful young woman in his pit trap, it’s obvious to him that she is meant to be his mate. He doesn’t know where she came from; she’s wearing some pretty odd clothing, and she makes a lot of noises with her mouth that give him a headache. Still, he’s determined to fulfill his purpose in life – provide for her, protect her, and put a baby in her.

Elizabeth doesn’t know where she is or exactly how she got there. She’s confused and distressed by her predicament, and there’s a caveman hauling her back to his cavehome. She’s not at all interested in Ehd’s primitive advances, and she just can’t seem to get him to listen. No matter what she tries, getting her point across to this primitive, but beautiful, man is a constant – and often hilarious – struggle. 

With only each other for company, they must rely on one another to fight the dangers of the wild and prepare for the winter months. As they struggle to coexist, theirs becomes a love story that transcends language and time.

Review

Original Blurb Right After Reading

Different.....fun....side splitting....tears.....eye rolling ------ all packed into a story.

Read about Ehd and Beh's life together from the moment Ehd found Beh until they reach the end.  See how Beh has to learn to live in "caveman" days compared to the 21st Century...while Ehd must learn to be patient with his "noisy" mate.

It's adorable ----- but long and about 60% in - I was hoping for either more action or less mundane happenings.  Also, Ehd's thoughts are repetitive (I understand why this is important, but it does border on over excess)

Overall, I didn't even know this was a "fanfiction" book until I was about 25% in and decided to check Goodreads for it. 

When I saw the email about the tour....I spotted Shay Savage’s name...and I didn't even blink before I replied that I was in 100%....

I'm not disappointed in the book at all....seeing how early this was first published - you can tell that Ms. Savage has incredible talent.

And....for a book to have me sobbing - I mean HICCUPING SOBBING.....it's a WINNER in my book!

Review After Time to Mull Over Story

That was left 13 days ago and I still can’t get this story out of my head.  I am obsessed with this and continue to remember scenes from the book and stop whatever I am doing to re-cap and either, laugh, sigh, swoon or sniffle.

Shay – you did it!! You have made my top list of reads for the year of 2014….this is a book that will FOREVER hold a place in my heart and in my head!  It is rare that I come across a story that soars above all the rest and falls into the category “something new and exciting”.  It’s different….so different from so many of the other books out there and that is what intrigues me the most.

I LOVED Ehd….he is the most comical, sweet, loving, naïve, heart melting caveman to ever exist!! And trust me….I have met my fair share in life. 

“Different” continues to pop back into my mind – the imagination Shay has to write a fan-fiction book like this which is so outside the box of normal thinking – to use Ehd’s POV instead of Beh’s – by using Beh’s POV, I know the story would have fallen short and wouldn’t have had the sentimental value that Ehd’s POV donated to this lovable story.

I kept asking myself throughout the book….why doesn’t Beh teach Ehd to speak – teach him the words so they can communicate without Ehd constantly wondering what all the noise coming from Beh meant? It took me a few days, but I realized how much that impacted the story and the message it contains.  It’s not words which make a loving relationship last….it’s the actions.

And the ending?? Wow – strategically done Ms. Savage!  I feel like I want to break into song from “The Lion King”

My hats off to you Shay for bringing us such an amazing “once in a lifetime” read!

Re-Cap

Ehd is all alone – his family gone and he is barely surviving.  Depression and numbness fills his nights when he thinks he will never find a mate.

That is until he hears a painful noise coming from the area where he dug out a trap.  Going to investigate Ehd finds a woman dressed differently and sounds coming out of her mouth that hurt his ears.

Ehd has one thing on his mind….sex – well really mating – what else do you do with a woman?  Me man – you woman – let’s mate. (Like they do on the Discovery Channel)

We follow Ehd and Beh as they get to know one another and build a solid relationship before Beh allows Ehd to have his way “caveman style”.

Damn….I can’t tell you anymore of the story without writing a novel – so I’m going to leave you with that.

Wrap-Up

Different….I’ll say (type) it again…..DIFFERENT!

A must read!

Book – More Than Him (More #3)

Author – Jay McLean

Publication Date – January 28, 2014

Type – Part of Series – No Cliffhanger

Genre –Romance, New Adult

Rating – 4 1/2 out of 5 Stars

Book provided by Author (part of Release Blitz) in exchange for an honest review.

Reading Order

More Than This (More #1) – Mikey and Jake’s Story

More Than Her (More #2) – Logan and Her’s Story (Part 1)

More Than Him (More #3) – Logan and Amanda’s Story (Conclusion)

More Than Forever (More #4) – Cam and Lucy’s Story – July 2014

Synopsis

"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us." - Marianne Williamson

We live in a world of darkness and shadows,
where monsters hide and aim to ruin.
And they did.
They ruined us and turned our dreams into nightmares.
But now we're back.
And we're fighting.
Not just for us, or for each other, but for our light.

Review

To start off…..I have to say “WHERE THE HELL HAVE YOU BEEN ALL MY LIFE, JAY MCLEAN?” Why oh why didn’t I read the first 2 books of the More series?  But Thank All That Is Holy….that I was asked to be part of the Release Blitz and introduced to Jay’s writing capabilities.

I started to read the Prologue and was confused – oh so freakin’ confused – I had to message Feifei (my sweetcakes) to ask her WTF happened at the end of #2 so I could understand what was going on….So my advice to you – READ #2 first!!  It didn’t take long though after Feifei’s summary and Jay’s fantastic ability to write, that I was able to fall headfirst into the lives of Logan and Amanda.

Oh my….Logan – my heart broke and I fell in absolute LOVE with his character – I cheered for him to make his way out of the black hole and rise to the top in order to get his “Person”.  I loved Amanda and the choices she made not only with Logan but with her life in general.  She was a definite true “Heroine” in the NA genre!

Yeah, there were times that I wanted to smack Logan upside his head and yell at him “Get a freakin’ clue, dude.” But what true character doesn’t fuck up every once in awhile.  Our lives would be a merry-go-round instead of the highs and lows of a roller-coaster ride.

I think the most beautiful scene in this book comes when Amanda faces the monster and preaches to him about Logan….my eyes got misty and my heart was going….Thump. Thump. Thump.

“Eleventy-Three Times” 

Eleventy-Three times I sniffled while reading Logan’s journal entries.

Eleventy-Three times I sighed at his words to Amanda

Eleventy-Three times my heart saddened hearing about his past and abuse he endured

Eleventy-Three times I broke when Amanda broke

Eleventy-Three times I cheered for Logan and Amanda’s HEA

Eleventy-Three times I want to congratulate Jay McLean on writing a winner!

I can’t say anymore about how much I loved this book….and how connected I felt toward Logan and Amanda….they are the Ultimate Couple! 

Re-Cap

Amanda is trying to cope with Logan leaving her after their trauma from the last book.  She is not only battling the demons of Logan leaving but is trying to get through her nightmares and anxiety of reliving that night over and over again.

She deals the best the best she can with the help of her brother and close friends but nothing can take the pain away from the other half of her missing.

Fast forward a year and Logan is back – he wants his “Person” – he wants to give her the universe and he will stop at nothing to fight in order to get her back.

Journey through the tough times Logan has in dealing with his anxiety and fall in love with the path he takes to give Amanda “her universe”.

Wrap-Up

Such a heart-felt book….and how I wished I took this journey from the beginning….Jay – you can add another fan to your list! 

Book – Jase (Men of Steel #1)

Author – M.J. Fields

Publication Date – July 13, 2013

Type – Part of Series – No Cliffhanger

Genre –Romance, New Adult

Rating – 4 out of 5 Stars

Book provided by Author (part of Blog Tour) in exchange for an honest review.

Reading Order

Men of Steel (Men of Steel #0.5) – Prequel to Jase and Carly

Jase (Men of Steel #1) – Jase and Carly’s Story

Jase and Carly:Summer Lovin’ (Men of Steel #1.5)

Cyrus (Men of Steel #2) – Cyrus and Tara’s Story

Zandor (Men of Steel #3) – Zandor and Bekah’s Story

Who is Next?

Synopsis

I sat in my room at our family’s tattoo parlor, Forever Steel staring at the phone. I hadn’t stopped looking at the picture of this crazy, quirky, insanely beautiful blonde haired blue eyed siren that invaded the Jersey Shore a month ago.

Carly Smythe was not my type at all. She was a twenty year old student at Stanford University in California, smart as hell, and funny. The shit kicker was she was so awkwardly unaware of what any man with pulse could see, and that was that she was a damn heartbreaker with a body that made me hard the very first time I saw her.

She made me crazy, she snuck out to see me, and then avoided any sexual advances I made on her, until I finally kissed her, and I didn’t wait for an invitation either: I took those pouty little lips and made them mine.

Carly was also an avid reader of those books, you know “Mommy Porn.” So my game had to be stepped up. Who the hell am I kidding? She could see through my game immediately, and it didn’t have the same effect it did on every other girl I hooked up with. And she didn’t go running for the hills, either. I fell hard… and fast.

Abe (her cousin) knew all the shit that had gone down in my life for the past five and a half years and in order to make this work, which I wanted it to... I needed to set the record straight, put it all on the line, give her the 411, and let her decide if after everything, she still wanted to give it up to a guy like me. A tattooed, pierced, f-up, with a past that was sure to send any girl into a tail spin. She was not any girl, she was…different.

Review

A bit unbelievable at times and confusing when the timelines started picking up but overall it was a cute, angsty and enjoyable read.  Carly’s character was a spit-fire but innocent and lovable while Jase was a tattooed “bad boy” even though his world revolved around Carly. 

They had their times of getting on my nerves with how farfetched their romance panned out to be, especially toward the end where Jase tries to win back his girl.  He could be so romantic at times and then at other times – such a total DICK!!  I wanted to yell at Carly to get the hell out of the relationship and STAY OUT but then there were times I wanted her to give in to Jase and live HEA!

The beginning of the book and up to the part of the surprise death of a grandmother was great….but at this point of the book and on – I found myself continually rolling my eyes.

Re-Cap

Carly is staying with her dad for the summer in New Jersey and meets Jase at a bonfire one night.  She is attracted to him but knows that she has to leave soon to go back to college on the other side of the US.  Jase on the other hand knows he wants Carly and continually puts all his moves on her until Carly finally breaks down and agrees to date.

We follow Jase and Carly through long distance relationships, heartbreak, missed opportunities to take Carly’s virginity and secrets which shouldn’t have been kept in the past.

They experience the highest of highs and the lowest of lows during a few years that this book spans in the life of Jase and Carly. 

Wrap-Up

Enjoyable read but over the top of believable at the end.  

Book – Destiny’s Detour

Author – Mari Brown

Publication Date – January 31, 2014

Type – Stand Alone

Genre –Romance, New Adult

Rating – 3 1/2 out of 5 Stars

Book provided by Author (for Blog Tour) in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis

Heading off to her first year of college, Destiny is ready to take on the world. On the college dance team with her best friend, Amy, all Destiny wants is to have fun, enjoy her college years, and spend time with her older brother, David.

Troy is captain of the football team, sexy, sweet and her brother's best friend. Practically a member of the family, Troy has always been off limits...until now.

One night together changes everything...

A childhood crush turns into more and Destiny has no choice but to grow up sooner than she planned. Will life’s unexpected detours derail her forever? Is there a happily ever after in the cards for Destiny and Troy?

Only time will tell.

Review

Fairy Tale….that’s the word that comes to mind when I think about this book.  When our characters have all the money they need to shop constantly while in college and when everything that happens comes out smelling like roses…..then that is a “Fairy Tale” my friends.

I’m not saying it is a bad thing – it’s just not really my cup of tea or maybe I just wasn’t in the mood for such a sweet, teeth throbbing story.  I did enjoy it and the author was fantastic with her writing and her ability to get the reader to visualize each scene as it happens.

Re-Cap

Destiny starts college and moves in with her brother and his best friend Troy.  Destiny has always had a secret crush on Troy while they were growing up and can’t believe that she just woke up with him naked next to her.  As memories start to resurface, Destiny realizes she just had sex with none other than the star quarterback for their college.

She brushes it off to him as a “Oh well….that was nice and let’s not tell my brother.”  Damn….that just makes Troy lose his mojo because little does Destiny know…Troy has secretly been crushing after her since Junior High.

We follow Destiny and Troy while they make sense of the feelings they have for one another and what the real world keeps throwing at them. 

Wrap-Up

Did you ever dream of your “Prince Charming” and your “Fairy Tale” romance?  Do you like books with little to no angst?  How about every life situation doesn’t get any worse than a hangnail?

If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, this is definitely the book for you!

Book – Touched by Another (Touch #3)

Author – T.H. Snyder

Publication Date – January 26, 2014

Type – Part of Series – No Cliffhanger

Genre –Romance

Rating – 4 out of 5 Stars

Book provided by Author (part of Blog Tour) in exchange for an honest review.

Reading Order

Touch Me (Touch #1) – Char and Riley’s Story

Touched by You (Touch #2) – Chloe and Derrick’s Story

Touched by Another (Touch #3) – Emma and Pete’s Story

You’ve Been Touched (Touch #3.5) – Char and Riley’s Continuation (release Feb 2014)

Synopsis

Lately Emma MacIntyre has been pretending to live the life of a perfect wife while her husband Keith takes control over her family business. With the loss of her parents to a tragic car accident and a fight that causes her brother, Riley, to move out of state Emma chooses to stand by her husband. 

While sorting out her parent’s estate, Emma stumbles across a few hidden secrets that she suspects Keith has kept her from. Heartbroken Emma turns to her brother for support, hoping to also rekindle their own broken relationship. During a visit to Boston Emma finds herself reacting to a complete stranger when he is willing to comfort her and listen to her pain. 

Is Emma ready to move on with her life and leave the hurt of her failing marriage behind? Will Emma fight the urge to fall once she has been Touched by Another? 

This book is recommended for readers 18 years of age and older. It contains adult language and sexual scenes not intended for young readers.

Review

I was utterly captivated when I first started reading this book.  I loved the beginning and following the angst Emma was going through with her husband, Keith.  I kept second guessing what the douche-bag was up to and a few times, I was steered wrong….but when I finally realized what he was doing to double cross Emma, man I wanted nothing but death to be knocking on his door.

I lived through Emma, I felt her pain and the trauma she experienced in life.  The author had a way of drawing me into the story and experience what Emma was going through.  It was amazing……until…..

I’m sorry – I don’t know if I’ve been in a funk lately but I had such high hopes for a 5 Star rating.  I think the second part of the book was a bit too unreal with Emma and Pete’s story.  I get that she deserved a happy experience and I get that both of them were trying to keep everything together as just “friends” but it was all “unicorns and rainbows” for them.  I don’t know of any relationship, whether friendship or lovers who don’t experience a few bumps in the road.

I would have been sold if maybe they just had one “take a second to rethink this” moment between them.

Re-Cap

Emma is married to an asshole…but she has tried everything to keep her marriage together and make everyone in her life happy without ever putting herself first.  Things then start to change in her marriage and Keith is starting to respond to her and Emma starts to believe in love again.

Then a sudden trauma sets Emma and her brother back while Keith takes the reins and heads up the family business.  Again, Emma is full of sadness as she loses her husband to his job and also loses her brother, Riley, for standing by her husband.  Things start to look fishy to Emma and she starts a little digging while Keith is away on business.  What Emma finds is sure to put a wedge between all parties involved.

Fast-forward to divorce and Emma is in Boston to start her life over again.  Riley and Char take Emma under their wings and teach her how to live again by putting herself first.  Pete on the other hand is just coming out of a terrible relationship and can’t stand the sight of any woman….well that is until he sets his eyes on Emma……

Wrap-Up

I loved the beginning…..the second part was OK but all in all it was a good read and I would recommend it to anyone who love a bit of suspense in their romance!

Book – Strike (Completion #2)

Author – Holly S. Roberts

Publication Date – January 22, 2014

Type – Part of Series – No Cliffhanger Series

Genre –Romance, New Adult

Rating – 4 out of 5 Stars

Book provided by Author (for Blog Tour) in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis

Strike is the second book in the Completion Series. There is no connection to Play (book I) except the sports theme. Strike is a standalone HEA novel.

Nineteen-year-old Jaycee Shumway breaks into professional baseball player, Reed Tyler’s home, to steal the second most valuable set of balls he owns. Neither of them expect their striking attraction or battle of wills to lead them to a homerun.

Jaycee has more than herself to worry about. When Reed discovers she has a younger brother and sister, he’s quickly caught up in their world of need and heartbreak.

Baseball season begins and the separation puts Reed and Jaycee’s game on hold. With bases loaded and hearts on the line, will Reed convince Jaycee that she needs him to win or will Jaycee strike out and walk off the field forever?

This New Adult book is intended for mature audiences.

Review

I started this book and was instantly entrapped with the details of the story.  I was laughing so hard at some of the comments from our little firecracker Jaycee, she had me dazed and confused half the time!  This author had the ability to take a majorly depressing life and turn it around to see how strong Jaycee’s family was and the love that poured out of them.

This was an adorable story of romance and “The Knight in Shining Armor” riding in to save our heroine and her poor family.  It was definitely an “adult” fairy-tale brought to life which included some bondage and very heavy sex scenes.

Now…..I did have a problem about 60% into the book where it just seemed over the top and started to fall in the “cheesy” category (not a bad thing for some).  The ending wrapped up too fast and there wasn’t enough angst or drama to bring this “bad” girl to her knees.

Re-Cap

Jaycee along with her brother and sister lived in a dilapidated trailer and make the best with what they have.  Jaycee learns about some special baseballs that are worth tons of money and can help her make some money for her family.  Little does Jaycee know that she is going to run into a naked man after climbing in his window, especially since it’s her first time as a felon.

Reed is pissed and takes out his frustrations on Jaycee (best part of the book) but after seeing where she lives and meets her siblings, feelings change quickly for Reed.  The romance blossoms and Reed is ecstatic to have his “ready-made” family.

Wrap-Up

If you enjoy happy, swooning, sappy stories – then this is a perfect book for you to read.  It will have you going “Ohhh and Ahhh and Awwww” along with some laughs tied in.

Book – Inner Core (Stark #2)

Author – Sigal Ehrlich

Publication Date – January 25, 2014

Type – Part of Series – No Cliffhanger

Genre –Romance, New Adult

Rating – Between 3 ½ and 4 out of 5 Stars

Book provided by Author (for Blog Tour) in exchange for an honest review.

Reading Order

Layers (Stark #1)

Inner Core (Stark #2)

Synopsis

When Hayley makes a resolution to take back the control over her life, and declare their relationship R.I.P, it’s all good in theory… 

That is until Daniel decides to prove her wrong and get her back. 

Together, Hayley and Daniel seem to have it all. But can love ever be enough when two strong personalities collide and while reality takes the lead? 

Faced with more obstacles than she could have ever bargain for when it comes to Daniel, struggling to keep her own identity while sharing a life with her man. Buds of doubt start rooting in Hayley’s confidence, making her rethink her decision.

And just when it seems that they might make it together after all, life happens. Bringing a threat that neither Hayley nor Daniel could ever anticipate, a threat that could break them apart forever . . .

Review

Ohhhhh….I have been holding off on this review because I’m so torn to love it…..or to hate it.  Can you guess who it is that I love? Yup, Daniel – he fucking ROCKS!! I would give my left tit to be with a guy like that and what does Hales do??  She whines, she pushes, she annoys the freak out of me.  Poor, poor Daniel – I’m thinking maybe he is hard of hearing? 

He was the perfect heart swooning guy in this episode (except for one little mess up) and by Hayley’s reaction you would have thought he killed her little pussy!  OK – that’s enough bitching about Hayley for now….on with the review.

There were times I thought the story slowed down and then there were times that I couldn’t peel my eyes away from my book (aka phone).  All in all, this was a spectacular ending to the Stark story!  Everything rolled up very nicely in the end…..but you know what my most favorite part of the book (aka see above) was?  It was Daniel’s POV in the Epilogue at the end.  OMG….I could have DIED!!

Re-Cap

We pick up where Layers ended….Hayley and Daniel are kaputz – well not for very long.  Daniel travels to Hayley’s parents house to beg for forgiveness and get Hayley back. 

Things progress rapidly for them, not with the help of Hayley though….with every turn, she is pushing Daniel away and second guessing their relationship.  Then – HOT DAMN – Hayley finds out about a transgression of Daniel’s and she bolts (yet again). 

And again, Daniel comes begging for another chance.  I think I’ll end the story here so you can read and find out what happens next and how many obstacles these younguns’ must face for their HEA.

Wrap-Up

I want a Daniel – nuff said!

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Book – Unexpected (Unexpected #2)

Author – Amity Cross

Publication Date – February 4, 2014

Type – Part of Series

Genre –Romance, New Adult

Rating – 3 ½ out of 5 Stars

Book provided by Author (for Release Blitz) in exchange for an honest review.

Synopsis

Blair is looking for an escape.

West is looking for a connection.

One down and out woman. One isolated rock star. Life at the top is lonely, but so is life at the bottom.

Blair is just looking for someone to take the edge off her crappy life. Dull the pain, breathe a little life into her neglected body. A chance meeting at a bar leads to a night of passion. No names, no personal details. Just sex.

Well, it wasn't personal until she sees the guy standing on a stage ten meters in front of her. How the hell didn't she realize that the guy who blew her mind is the guitarist out of that dirty rock'n'roll band, Affliction? And why is he chasing her down the street? And how does he know her name?

Sometimes you find the things you didn't even know you were looking for in the most unexpected places.

Review

I picked this book up and started reading…..before I knew it – I was finished.  Damn, did it have to end so quickly?  I feel like this was just the first part in a budding relationship and I was ready for more.  I wanted to know what happens next and THEN - it ended.

I loved Blair’s character…sassy, bitchy, dominant, take the world by the balls type of chick.  What girl do you know will walk into a bar and pick up a guy – rock his world – and just leave?  That was Blair and did she ever rock West’s life!  After one night of passion with “Beautiful” he will never be the same again.

This story drew you in and held your heart and your mind.  I rooted for West to find his mysterious girl and I rooted for Blair to finally find some of the happiness she so deserves.

Re-Cap

Blair is all alone – everyone and anyone she has ever tried to get close to has left her.  She hides behind a mask of bitchiness in order to not get hurt again.  She craves human touch in the form of sex and goes out every so often to get her fix.  No names – no talk – no phone numbers – JUST SEX!

One night Blair goes out to a off the beat bar and instantly attracts the attention of a customer.  She is mesmerized by his tattoos and his eyes.  No small talk….Blair just wants to leave and have a night of up against the wall, slamming sex.  The guy is all for it and brings her back to his upscale hotel room where the two have the most memorable sex EVER!  The guy begs Beautiful to stay with him the night and she relents.  Little does this guy know, Blair leaves as soon as she hears the even breaths coming from his mouth.

West wakes up and can’t think of anything else but the girl from the night before.  He can’t even concentrate on his upcoming gig that night.  You see West is the lead singer of Affliction (one of Blair’s favorite rock bands).  It isn’t until that night when Blair has a ticket to see Affliction, that she realizes the guy from the night before is none other than the lead singer!

Between Blair’s insecurities and tightly formed shields around her heart and West’s past with addictions to drugs, alcohol and women…these two are in store for the ride of their lives!

Wrap-Up

Ummmm….when is #2 coming out?

Book – My Masters’ Nightmare Season 1, Ep. 8

Author – Marita A. Hansen

Publication Date – January 30, 2014

Type – Part of Series

Genre –Dark

Rating – 4 1/2 out of 5 Stars

Book provided by Author – Part of Beta Read Team

Reading Order

Season 1, Episode 1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8

(I can count)

Synopsis

Rita is inundated with questions from Frano:

Why doesn't she have an Italian accent?
Why can't she remember everything?
How did she get to America?
How did she become an FBI agent?

Jagger instead is taking control back and becoming a master again. Can you guess who he's taking as a slave? Camila is going to be furious when she sees who Jagger is focusing on, while Matteo will want to kill Jagger for it. But, Jagger now has the power and will try to force Matteo into betraying Christo and the Padre with promises of giving this person back. Will it work?

New additions to Episode 8: Sophia's and the Padre's viewpoints.

Review

What can I say that I haven’t said before – Marita knows that I am a BIG fan of hers and love being part of the Beta Team – it’s so awesome to see these characters develop and have a chance to help this along.

This episode is probably one of my favorites not only because this journey in editing had me ready to pull my hair out and throw my computer against the wall (just think how Marita felt with all the edits we were sending her) but also because we FINALLY get to see some tender moments between Frano and Rita. (swoon)

I absolutely love how this series is blooming into a tale of romance, darkness and suspense.

Jagger finally takes the reins back and is pissed….mighty PISSED about the horrors he has endured and he is ready to take his anger out on Dora and any other person who dares try to touch him again.

We also encounter a great flashback to Sophia in which she is met with seeing unbelievable things while spying on the D’Angelo brothers – panty melting and gross all in a matter of hours.

Padre’s POV delves into his psyche of why the man is so fucked up….and Christo….damn – I don’t even want to touch on that can of worms. 

Oh, and Matteo finally gets what is coming to him!! Hahahaha – you’ll have to read to find out!

This episode is full of action and will have your heart melting and then stopping in shock!

Episode 9?  BRING IT ON!