BOOK REVIEW ~ AS TEARS GO BY -- LYDIA MICHAELS

Title: As Tears Go By (McCullough Mountain, Book Six)
Author: Lydia Michaels
Publisher: Secret Cravings
Format: ARC eBook
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Release Date: November 18, 2014


ARC provided by author for honest review







Sometimes love speaks without a word and throws the world into color.

Braydon McCullough has spent his life searching for the perfect woman. When a shy beauty propositions him, he assumes he’s found her. Blindsided by their chemistry, his life takes a bewildering turn when she vanishes as quickly as she appeared.

Becca Stevens can’t afford to take risks, but when persuaded by friends to commemorate her divorce by approaching a gorgeous stranger in a bar, common sense abandons her. After an unforgettable night of passion, she panics, running back to her methodical life, promising never to be so reckless again. That is until her Braydon unexpectedly tracks her down.

Braydon’s unwelcome persistence is a complication to Becca’s already challenging life. As a single mother of a son living with autism, she has no room for personal affairs. Braydon’s determination tempts to show Becca how vibrant life can be if she’d only dare to dream again.

Award winning author, Lydia Michaels, writes all forms of hot romance. She presses the bounds of love and surprises readers just when they assume they have her stories figured out. From Amish vampyres, to wild Irishmen, to broken heroes, and heroines no man can match, Lydia takes readers on an emotional journey of the heart, mind, and soul with every story she pens. Her books are intellectual, erotic, haunting, always centered on love.Lydia Michaels loves to hear from readers! She can be found of Facebook or contacted by email at Lydia@LydiaMichaels.org

Website / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads 

I cannot rave enough about how much I love the McCullough men. Lydia Michaels has created a series I have grown quite fond of and knowing it is reaching its conclusion has me a bit sad. 

Okay, truth? I'm totally devastated. 

That being said, As Tears Go By is an emotional read dealing with heart breaking issues. Something Michaels has done throughout the McCullough Mountain series. She knows how to tug at your heartstrings and sucks you inside her world--a world where family loyalties  and romance shine. 

Braydon McCullough has had his heart broken once. His girlfriend, Sammy, ended up marrying his older brother, Colin. His search for finding that perfect someone has left him alone in the big city and wanting what others in his family has found. He wants a woman who will choose him above all others and, until then, he plays the field like any typical male would do. 

Becca Stevens is just coming off a failed, ten-year marriage.  The ink on the divorce papers is barely even dry. Her best friend and boss convinces her she needs to approach the sexy man sitting across the bar and have a one night stand. 

Not looking for a relationship, she approaches Braydon McCullough. And they share one night of hot,sweaty sex that leaves both unprepared for what follows.

As Tears Go By is a tale of forgotten dreams, broken vows, and inner strength. One of the core themes I loved in this story revolves around Becca. She is a single mother struggling to take care of her son, who is autistic. Being a parent is soul-draining, emotionally harrowing at times, and the most thankless job on the planet. But having to raise a child with autism has a trillion different issues-ones that Becca has met, and surpassed, with each turn. Her entire world centers on her son and there is no time for a relationship in her life. 

Braydon is amazed by Becca's strength, her love and devotion to her child, and the passion hidden deep inside a woman afraid to follow her dreams. He wants to give her everything. Be the man her husband failed to be. And more importantly, Braydon wants Becca to choose him over the man who originally claimed her as his wife. But fears and the past continue to plague Becca's heart and threaten to break the delicate connection the new lovers share. 

Be prepared to experience an emotional journey as you read As Tears Go By. It has all the components of an addicting series: laughter, love, and a sizzling chemistry between the hero and heroine.  

Favorite moments:

"Special like you like him a lot or special like he has an IEP?"

"What would a kid be doing with a bomb?"

"Not an IED, you ass. An IEP. An individualized Education Program." 

"I'm sorry," Carla said, leaning close, but keeping her eyes on Kelly. "My vagina's in some sort of spasm right now. I couldn't quite make out your words." 

"Smurf sex is when you fuck until you're blue in the face." 

"Why are you trying so hard?"

"Why are you waiting for us to fail?" His shoulders drew up tight. He shook his head. "I guess I thought trying was what people did when they cared. I've never experienced so much opposition in my life." 

BOOK REVIEW ~ MAYBE SOMEDAY BY COLLEEN HOOVER

Title: Maybe Someday
Author: Colleen Hoover
Publisher: Atria Books
Release Date: March 18, 2014
Genre: New Adult, Romance

ARC provided by NetGalley



At twenty-two years old, aspiring musician Sydney Blake has a great life: She’s in college, working a steady job, in love with her wonderful boyfriend, Hunter, and rooming with her good friend, Tori. But everything changes when she discovers Hunter cheating on her with Tori—and she is left trying to decide what to do next.

Sydney becomes captivated by her mysterious neighbor, Ridge Lawson. She can’t take her eyes off him or stop listening to the daily guitar playing he does out on his balcony. She can feel the harmony and vibrations in his music. And there’s something about Sydney that Ridge can’t ignore, either: He seems to have finally found his muse. When their inevitable encounter happens, they soon find themselves needing each other in more ways than one…

**I love the way Colleen Hoover set the stage for Maybe Someday. It's something that came as a complete surprise to me, so I don't want to put spoilers up to ruin it for other readers. So, this review will be tough to write without giving things away.

Sydney Blake has just found out that her boyfriend is cheating on her--with her roommate. Her devastation has her packing her bags and fleeing the apartment, not making any plans or knowing where the hell she's going. Her abrupt departure leads her to the door of one of her neighbors--the cute guy she has seen from her balcony. Although they have never talked face to face, she has studied him from beneath her lashes and watches him as he plays his guitar.

Ridge Lawson cannot help but notice his beautiful neighbor, Sydney. And through texts, they discover each other's passion for music. But when Sydney has no place to go after the harsh break-up with her boyfriend, Ridge offers her a place to stay.

Through their connection of music, Ridge and Sydney grow closer. But there is only one problem---and it's a biggie--Ridge is already involved with another girl. One he refuses to  hurt, one he cares deeply about.

Sydney refuses to be the other girl. She knows the hurt, the devastation that follows with that kind of choice. And she refuses to hurt Maggie, Ridge's unsuspecting girlfriend.

Colleen Hoover is brilliant in crafting a story that makes you feel the emotions and pain experienced by her characters. And Ridge and Sydney's story is one that tugged at my heart strings. Some readers may find offence in what Ridge and Sydney struggle with--and view it as cheating. But their connection isn't about just the physical attraction. It's a deeper, emotional connection--and one that they fight so damn hard to prevent. And I think that Colleen Hoover presented both sides well and showed how their feelings ran deeper that just a few minutes of physical pleasure.

Maybe Someday is ultimately finding that person you are meant to be with--it just may not be the right time in your life. And maybe, someday....the two people that are meant to be together will find their way back to each other again.  

ARC BOOK REVIEW ~ DARK SKYE BY KRESLEY COLE

Author: Kresley Cole
Publisher: Gallery Books
Series: Immortals After Dark, Book 14
Expected Release Date: August 5, 2014
Genre: Paranormal

 Pages: 384
Format: eARC, Netgalley

















In this highly anticipated novel in the Immortals After Dark series, #1 New York Times bestselling author Kresley Cole spins a sultry tale of a mighty warrior scarred inside and out and the beguiling sorceress with the power to heal him - or vanquish him forever.

Eternal Obsession 

As a boy, Thronos, Lord of Skye Hall, loved Lanthe, a mischievous Sorceri girl who made him question everything about his Vrekener clan. But when the two got caught in the middle of their families’ war, tragedy struck, leaving Thronos and Lanthe bitter enemies. Though centuries have passed, nothing can cool his seething need for the beautiful enchantress who scarred his body - and left an even deeper impression on his soul.

Endless Yearning 

Lanthe, a once-formidable sorceress struggling to reclaim her gifts, searches for love and acceptance with all the wrong immortal suitors. But she’s never forgotten Thronos, the magnificent silver-eyed boy who protected her until she was ripped from the shelter of his arms. One harrowing night changed everything between them. Now he’s a notorious warlord with a blood vendetta against Lanthe, hunting her relentlessly.

Can the heat of desire burn brighter than vengeance?

With their families locked in conflict and battles raging all around them, will Thronos and Lanthe succumb to the brutal chaos that threatens everything they cherish? Or will the fragile bond they formed so long ago spark a passion strong enough to withstand even the darkest doubts?

Book Review

Kresley Cole continues to amaze me. After fourteen books in her Immortals After Dark series, Cole knocks it out of the ballpark -- AGAIN.

I am simply amazed and blown away with Cole's ability to make her books in her IAD series flow seamlessly as they do. As a reader, and a writer, she has me gobsmacked at how she jumps from story to story and keeps up with all the character ARCs and timeline.

This time around her hero is Thronos, Lord of Skye Hall. For centuries he has been searching for his mate, Lanthe. But he doesn't know whether to kill her or kiss her. Their factions are sworn enemies--but as children, they developed a friendship. Thronos knew the little sorceress was to be his mate.

But a dark betrayal will break them apart.

Lanthe has spent centuries avoiding her mate. But after escaping from being imprisoned on an island, she runs into the very man she wishes never to see again.

As both Thronos and Lanthe try to find their way back to their respective worlds, lies and misconceptions from the past begin to unravel.  And just when they start to find forgiveness and a possible future within their grasp, a powerful Sorceri obliterates Thronos's memories.

But the unrelenting Lanthe is determined to find Thronos and show him just how strong their love is...it is more powerful than magic...and forever always.

Dark Skye is filled with plot twists and the occasional WTF moments you don't see coming. Just when you think you know what's happening, Cole slips a few surprises along the way. It has everything fans of Kresley's books will appreciate and relish with every page.

Keep 'em coming, Kresley.

BOOK REVIEW ~ FORSAKING TRUTH BY LYDIA MICHAELS

Title: Forsaking Truth ( McCullough Mountain, Book Five)
Author: Lydia Michaels
Publisher: Secret Cravings
Release Date: May 5, 2014

Genre: Romance, M/M


ARC provided by author for an honest review







Book Blurb



When Luke McCullough’s athletic potential is diminished by a field injury, his pride pays the price. Returned to Center County a broken man, the long road to recovery seems dreary and overshadowed by opportunities lost, until he meets Tristan Hughes.

Tristan came to Center County to escape his past and start anew, but nothing prepared him for Luke. Intrigued, Tristan cautiously gets to know this powerful man, only to fall head over heels for the vulnerable soul hiding behind all that intensity and drive.

Luke has never been interested in men, so when he can’t get Tristan out of his head he doubles his efforts to fight the inevitable. Stolen glances lead to heated encounters, followed by punishing regret, but Luke’s inability to face the truth of who he really is may cost him the only happiness he’s ever known.

Book Review


I cannot get enough of this series.

I fell in love with the McCullough family with book one, Sacred Waters. Lydia Michaels has created an Irish family you cannot help but want to be a part of, and more importantly, married into, lol.

This large family has had its ups and downs over the years and its share of emotional turmoil. But Luke's story has its own unique circumstances and Michaels does a superb job at writing a heart-wrenching tale of two men who struggle coming to terms in their romantic relationship.

Luke McCullough was born to be a professional football star when an injury took him out of the game--permanently. He returns to Center County feeling like an utter failure. Now working at his father's lumber yard, he tries to find his way in a world that doesn't fit right. He is bitter about the future now denied him and feels about as useless as tits on a bull (Luke's own words from Forsaking Truth). In a nutshell, Luke is his own worst enemy.

Tristan Hughes moves to Center County and moves in with a relative to the McCullough's and accepts an entry position at the local lumberyard. This is where both Tristan and Luke meet and where friendship turns into something...more.

Forsaking Truth flashes to scenes previously seen in earlier books, but are told from Luke's perspective. So a lot gets explained on the hows and whys of Luke's burly behavior. He is coming to terms with sexual feelings toward another man--something that has never plagued him before. He has had relationships with  only women at this point. But there is no denying the attraction he feels with Tristan. Luke finally feels like those odd pieces of his life are falling into place. He feels accepted for who he is and most importantly, he feels a love that is all encompassing.

But there are bumps along the way as Forsaking Truth covers five years. Five years of fights, hurt feelings, and denial.  Both Tristan and Luke have to work through some serious issues. The major one being Luke's unwillingness to come out to his parents.

There were a few things I felt was missing in this story and I had wished to have seen more conversation between Finn and Luke. They are twins and I felt their relationship was sort of skimmed over.

Also, there is not enough interaction with Mama McCullough. I seriously love this woman. She is a secondary character that has wormed her way into my heart. She makes me laugh out loud and giggle like a little girl.

However, Michaels does provide a very touching and emotional scene with Luke and his parents.

Be prepared for a more serious subject matter with Forsaking Truth. It's not as humorous as previous books, but I didn't expect it to be. Luke is a quiet and private person, so unlike the other Chatty Cathys in the McCullough Clan. But the romance, the heat, and the sizzling sexual chemistry is still strong and very present.

A great addition to the McCullough Series.

BOOK REVIEW ~ HARD AS YOU CAN BY LAURA KAYE

Title: Hard As You Can (Hard Ink, Book Two)
Author: Laura Kaye

Publisher: Avon
Release Date: February 25, 2014
Genre: Contemporary, Romantic Suspense
Paperback, 384 pages

ARC provided by Edelweiss

Book Blurb

Five dishonored soldiers.
Former Special Forces.
One last mission.
These are the men of Hard Ink.

Ever since hard-bodied, drop-dead-charming Shane McCallan strolled into the dance club where Crystal Dean works, he’s shown a knack for getting beneath her defenses. For her little sister’s sake, Crystal can’t get too close. Until her job and Shane’s mission intersect, and he reveals talents that go deeper than she could have guessed.

Shane would never turn his back on a friend in need, especially a former Special Forces teammate running a dangerous, off-the-books operation. Nor can he walk away from Crystal. The gorgeous waitress is hiding secrets she doesn't want him to uncover. Too bad. He’s exactly the man she needs to protect her sister, her life, and her heart. All he has to do is convince her that when something feels this good, you hold on as hard as you can—and never let go.

Book Review 

Laura Kaye has done it again and penned a brilliant romantic suspense with Hard As You Can--the second book in the Hard Ink series.

In fact, I enjoyed this book more than the first.

I think that is due to the on-going story ARC as well as understanding the characters that make up this series. As each fascinating trait or quirk is revealed, I fall more in love with the men of Hard Ink.

Shane McCallan won my vote as all-time favorite with his tenderness and huge heart. His desire to protect Sara (aka Crystal) and her sister was palpable. And the way he holds himself responsible for his own sister's kidnapping broke my heart.

After literally running into Crystal in a strip club during a mission to rescue Charlie, Shane cannot get her out of his mind. And he's determined to find out more about this mysterious woman. When their current mission leads them back to Confessions, Shane reaches out to Crystal for information. When Shane realizes just how dangerous Crystal's current situation is, he can't help but want to reach out and help her. And just maybe, his guilt for not being able to help his little sister years ago will somehow be lessened.

Crystal is waiting for a chance to escape the hell her life has become.For the moment, she is left with no other choice but to work at Confessions as a waitress. And her boyfriend, Bruno Ashe, is paying for the expensive medication her sister needs to help control her seizures. Crystal knows that the club is the devil's playground--one that deals with drugs and the selling of women as slaves. But she puts on a smile and plays the role, praying for the day when she and her sister can escape.

When Shane asks for information that will help bring him and his friends closer to discovering who is behind their dishonorable discharge, Crystal decides to take the risk and helps him out. Used to being treated like a possession, Shane's behavior toward her is a welcome surprise. And Crystal starts to yearn for something that isn't possible, especially when she has no plans to stay in Baltimore.

Hard As You Can is action-oriented and filled with a twisty plot to keep you reading until the last page. And once you're there...you'll be begging for book three.

BOOK REVIEW ~ ONCE IN A LIFETIME BY JILL SHALVIS

Title: Once In A Lifetime (Lucky Harbor, Book Nine)
Author: Jill Shalvis
Publisher: Grand Central
Release Date: February 18, 2014
Genre: Contemporary Romance

ARC provided by NetGalley 








Book Blurb

After a wrenching loss, Ben McDaniel tried to escape his grief by working in dangerous, war-torn places like Africa and the Middle East. Now he's back in his hometown and face-to-face with Aubrey Wellington, the hot-as-hell woman who is trouble with a capital T. Family and friends insist she's not the one to ease his pain, but Aubrey sparks an intense desire that gives Ben hope for the future.

Determined to right the wrongs of her past, Aubrey is working hard to make amends. But by far, the toughest challenge to her plan is sexy, brooding Ben - even though he has absolutely no idea what she's done . . .

Can this unlikely couple defy the odds and win over the little town of Lucky Harbor?

Book Review

Jill Shalvis ALWAYS writes engaging characters and fills her stories with sweet/spicy romance--and ONCE IN A LIFETIME is a prime example of just how great Shalvis is at creating feel-good romances.

Ben McDaniel is a quiet man who keeps to himself, when he's not hanging around his buddies (Jack, Luke, and the sometimes-present Sam Brody). He's already experienced that "once in a lifetime" kind of love with his high-school sweetheart, Hannah, who died in a fatal car accident. After working several years away from home, Ben is back in Lucky Harbor, trying to figure out what's next in his life.

Aubrey Wellington finds "herself"--literally--in the middle of an AA meeting. After hearing other people admit to their past mistakes, but who are determined to find redemption in order to move on toward the future, Aubrey makes her own list of past mistakes.

And Ben McDaniel is on her list.

Ben cannot deny the spark between him and Aubrey, but he knows it can't go anywhere. She is the opposite of everything he had with Hannah. Where Hannah was quiet and reserved, Aubrey is fearless and outspoken.

But when Ben starts to see a different side to the otherwise fierce woman, he finds himself wanting to spend more time with her.

Aubrey cannot let her emotions take control when it comes to Ben. She has had a crush on him since high school. And if Ben ever finds out that she is responsible for breaking Hannah and Ben up their senior year, he will never forgive her. But her heart quickly becomes involved when Ben lets down his guard and she realizes just how much she could fall for this sexy engineer.

Once In A Lifetime is like returning home. Visiting with the people o Lucky Harbor is a treat and a joy to read. Shalvis tickles your funny bone with her quirky characters and humor as well as heat up the pages with her delicious men that reside in the small town of Lucky Harbor.

BOOK REVIEW ~ THE PROFESSIONAL: PART THREE BY KRESLEY COLE

Title: The Professional: Part Three ( The Game Maker) 
Author: Kresley Cole
Publisher: Pocket Star
Release Date: January 20, 2014
Genre: Erotic Romance

ARC provided by NetGalley

Book Blurb

Are you ready to play?
Yet all is not as it seems. To remove Natalie from an enemy's reach, Sevastyan spirits her into hiding. From an opulent palace in Russia to the decadent playgrounds of the mega-wealthy in Paris, the two lovers will discover that even their darkest - and most forbidden - fantasies can come true…


Book Review

Kresley Cole has written a dark, highly erotic, thriller mixed with an intense love story that borders on obsession. 

Sevastyan has brought Natalie to Le Libertin, a sex club in Paris, and ultimately opened her eyes to a world where the sins of the flesh are not only acceptable--they are relished. 

Natalie has pushed Sevastyan to accept his darker side...his primal needs, and how she responds to it will determine if Sevastyan will continue to feed those darker urges.

But will Sevastyan finally open up to Natalie--bare all for the sake of the survival of their relationship? Something that can leave him more vulnerable and possibly even destroy their fragile relationship? 

Or is it already too late when--once again--Sevastyan closes up after an explosive sexual encounter that leaves Natalie wanting more?

After reading this new series from Cole, I can honestly say that I need more. More Sevastyan. More Maksim. And more Jesse. Seriously, I want to see how Jesse reacts to the cold winters of Russia and I need her to fall...hard...for her own sexy Siberian. 

I love how Cole fuses sex, romance, drama, and humor into a compelling story that has you panting like you've been shot up with an overdose of endorphins. The Professional is a thrilling ride that I wish I could experience for the first time...over and over...until I'm exhausted from the rush.

BOOK REVIEW ~ HARD AS IT GETS BY LAURA KAYE

Title: Hard As It Gets
Author: Laura Kaye
Release Date: November 26, 2013

Reviewer purchased own copy of paperback for review


Book Blurb

Tall, dark, and lethal...

Trouble just walked into Nicholas Rixey's tattoo parlor. Becca Merritt is warm, sexy, wholesome--pure temptation to a very jaded Nick. He's left his military life behind to become co-owner of Hard Ink Tattoo, but Becca is his ex-commander's daughter. Loyalty won't let him turn her away. Lust has plenty to do with it too.

With her brother presumed kidnapped, Becca needs Nick. She just wasn't expecting to want him so much. As their investigation turns into all-out war with an organized crime ring, only Nick can protect her. And only Becca can heal the scars no one else sees.

Desire is the easy part. Love is as hard as it gets. Good thing Nick is always up for a challenge...





Book Review 


I love a great start to a new series. Laura Kaye has written a compelling read that keeps the reader's attention. There is a fast-paced plot filled with action, addictive characters, and military intrigue.

Lets talk about the hero of this book. Nick Rixey. He is super sexy, mysterious, a little dark and rough around the edges. But when you get to the yummy center of his character, you fall ass-over-elbow for him. He has so many interesting layers to him--faults and all--that I was immediately charmed.

And Nick is not the only one I fell hard for. Kaye gives us a heapin' load of Alpha males that I want to know more about. All of them unique, quirky, and interesting in their own way.

Then, there is Becca Merritt, the heroine. She is not only likable, but has such a fierceness about her to be admired. She wasn't weak, but still had a vulnerability to her that made her character believable. And I was totally envious--I mean, she is surrounded by a smorgasbord of men, all willing to stick their necks on the line in order to help her and keep her safe.

There is no fluff romance here--no tatted hero with very little character development and even less plot. I cannot wait to see how the Hard Ink story plot continues, as the bad guy is still out there.

Great characters, plot twists, and shoot 'em up action mixed with sexy times that will knock your socks off. Laura Kaye has written a solid beginning for her Hard Ink series and I will be waiting anxiously for the next book.

BOOK REVIEW ~ CURIO BY CARA MCKENNA (THE CURIO SERIES)

Title: Curio (The Curio Series)
Author: Cara Mckenna
Release Date: September 28, 2011

Reviewer purchased own eBooks for review




Caroly Evardt never expected to find herself patronizing a male prostitute. Then again, she never expected to be weeks from her thirtieth birthday and still a virgin.

When a friend mentions that a gorgeous male model in Paris sells his body as well as his image, Caroly's intrigued. Finally, a chance to sample the gifts of a beautiful man—no strings, no stakes, no fear of rejection.

But she soon discovers that Didier Pedra amounts to more than a striking face and talented body. He's a kind, charming, damaged man, and after a few evenings of pleasurable education, Caroly's interest blossoms into something far deeper than mere lust. Her simple arrangement is suddenly feeling downright dangerous . . .


Book Review

Thank you, Cara McKenna. You have gotten me out of my current reading slump. Or should I say, Thank you Didier? After all, it was this sexy, yet vulnerable character who made my weekend. 

I devoured McKenna's Curio series over the weekend and am sad to see the end of these very tantalizing vignettes. 

The story starts with Caroly Evardt, an American transplant, who has lived in Paris for the past two years. She has studied art, admiring the boundless beauty in paintings, sculpture, etc. And has always admired beautiful men. But her admiration has always been from a distance--fear keeping her from reaching out, afraid of being rejected.  

So, when her thirtieth birthday draws near--and she is still a virgin--she seeks the help of a professional. 

Didier Pedra, a sexy prostitute she has only seen pictures of. He is utterly beautiful, the kind of man that pulls at her, but has always been afraid to approach. 

Until she finds herself outside his loft, ringing his doorbell, in hopes that he will be the answer to her dreaded virginity. 

What I loved about these stories is the pacing. It was spot on. A slow seduction well worth the wait. 

And of course--there was Didier. 

Didier has always loved women. And has had a desire to please them. His exotic good looks and charm initially led him to modeling, which in turn, led him to his current profession. Prostitution. Whoring himself out to please countless women with his hands, his mouth, his body. 

But when he opens his door to find the very innocent, yet alluring, Caroly Evardt, his small world is turned upside down.

I don't want to give too much away with this review, but Didier is much more than what he seems. He may sell his body for a woman's pleasure, but he has facets that are both sexy as hell and intriguing. He is well educated, coming across as philosophical and more than just a pretty face. I fell for him hard. And the fact that he has his own secrets made me want to peel back his layers until I knew what he was hiding. 

Cara McKenna is an expert when it comes to portraying the not-so-ordinary heroes. And I have become an avid fan of her off-centered tales that are so refreshing after a lot of predictability. 

BOOK REVIEW ~ JAKE UNDONE BY PENELOPE WARD

Title: Jake Undone
Author: Penelope Ward
Release Date: October 21, 2013

Reviewer purchased copy of eBook for review

Book Blurb

Nina Kennedy was alive…but not living…until she met him.

Planes, trains, heights…you name it, Nina was afraid of it and led a sheltered life ruled by irrational fears and phobias. When she moves to Brooklyn for nursing school, that life is turned upside down, as she develops an intense but unwanted attraction to her gorgeous roommate, who’s pierced, tattooed and just happens to be the smartest person she’s ever met.

Behind Jake Green’s rough exterior and devilish smile, lies a heart of gold. He makes it his mission to change Nina’s outlook on life. When he agrees to tutor her, they forge a bet and the stakes are high as Jake forces Nina to face her demons. He just wasn’t expecting to fall hard for her in the process.

What Nina doesn’t realize, is that Jake has been living his own private hell. Once he drops a bombshell, will their love survive it?

Book Review 

I wasn't quite sure if I would like this book at the beginning, but I will say that I was intrigued. I continued to read it and wanted to see just where Penelope Ward was taking me. 

Nina Kennedy has just moved to the big city of New York, where she will be living with Ryan, and two other roommates. Ryan was her brother's best friend, and he offered her a place to stay after her acceptance to a local college. 

At first glance, the story starts out as a cliche of girl meeting dark, mysterious roommate who puts off a bad boy vibe.  But as the story progresses, Ward reveals the many layers that make up Jake Green. He is more than the tatts and piercings he wears -- and the man he is, I found very appealing. He was funny, charming, and smart as hell. 

When Nina meets her sexy roommate, she is attracted to the outer shell. But as the two spend more time together, she sees how sweet and loyal Jake really is. He pushes Nina to be better, to face her fears, and Nina falls hard.

But despite all the sexual tension between Nina and Jake, Jake doesn't want to start a relationship with her. And the time he spends away from New York every weekend is shrouded with secrets. What is Jake hiding from her? And why does he continue to fight the desires that ignite whenever they touch?

While there were a few parts that I didn't really care for with this story, Jake's character development and the sizzling chemistry between Nina and Jake more than make up for a few "meh, I'm not feeling it" moments. 

Here are some quotes from Jake Undone that capture why I fell in love with this sexy, tatted, hero:

"Sometimes if you are willing to withstand a little pain in life, Nina, you might discover a pleasure you never would have otherwise known existed."

"I wouldn't tell you to leave if I only wanted to kiss  you, Nina. I am telling you to leave because I want to taste you and make you come until you scream in every possible way imaginable."

"But the man upstairs had a different plan because he knew you were going to need me someday. I am glad he chose me to look out for you. I just wish I could make you feel better, make you healthy again. Most of all, I wish I could fight all of your demons for you. I would fucking slaughter them all if I could."

  For me, Jake Undone, was beautifully told and Jake was a very enjoyable character to watch as he struggled with his guilt and fought his own demons. 

J.A. REDMERSKI LAUNCH DAY BLITZ ~ THE EDGE OF ALWAYS -- WITH GIVEAWAY

The Edge Of Always 

by J.A. Redmerski

November 5, 2013; Forever/E-Book; $3.99; 978-1-4555-4901-6

Camryn Bennett has never been happier. Five months after meeting on a Greyhound bus, she and her soul mate Andrew Parrish are engaged-and a wedding isn't the only special event in their future. Nervous but excited, Camryn can't wait to begin the rest of her life with Andrew, a man she knows in her heart will love her always. They have so much to look forward to-until tragedy blindsides them.

Andrew doesn't understand how this could happen to them. He's trying to move on, and thought Camryn was doing the same. But when Andrew discovers Camryn is secretly harboring a mountain of pain and attempting to numb it in damaging ways, there is nothing he won't do to bring her back to life. Determined to prove that their love can survive anything, Andrew decides to take Camryn on a new journey filled with hope and passion. If only he can convince her to come along for the ride...

Purchase Links:

Amazon / Barnes and Noble / Bookish / iTunes

Author Bio:

J.A. Redmerski, New York Times, USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author lives in North Little Rock, Arkansas with her three children, two cats and a Maltese. She is a lover of television and books that push boundaries and is a huge fan of AMC's The Walking Dead.

Author Links:

Blog / Twitter / Facebook / Goodreads 

Book Excerpt

I hear the water from the shower shut off, and seconds later a loud bang vibrates through the wall. I jump up from the chair, letting the remote control hit the floor as I rush toward the bathroom. The edge of the coffee table clips the shit outta my shin as I pass.

I swing open the bathroom door. “What happened?”

Camryn shakes her head at me and smiles as she leans over to pick the hair dryer up from the floor beside the toilet.

I breathe a sigh of relief.

“You’re more paranoid than I am,” she laughs.

She glances down at my leg as I rub it with my fingertips. She sets the hair dryer back on the counter, comes up to me, and kisses the side of my mouth. “Looks like I’m not the one of us who needs to worry about being accident-prone.” She smiles.

My hands cup her shoulders and I pull her closer, letting one hand fall down to touch her little rounded belly. I can barely tell she’s pregnant. At four months I thought she’d at least be emulating a baby hippo, but what do I know about this stuff?

“Maybe so,” I say, trying to hide the red in my face. “You probably did that on purpose just to see how fast I could get in here.”

She kisses the other side of my mouth and then goes in for the kill, kissing me fully and deeply while pressing her wet, naked body against mine. I moan against her mouth, wrapping my arms around her.

But then I pull away before I fall into her devious trap. “Dammit, woman, you’ve gotta stop that.”

She grins back at me. “You really want me to stop?” she asks with that up-to-no-good smile of hers.

It scares the shit out of me when she does that. Once after a conversation laced with that smile, she stopped having sex with me for three whole days. Worst three days of my life.

Book Review 

Love, Love, Love, Love The Edge of Always. 

After reading (and sobbing) The Edge of Never, I was stoked to know that author, J.A. Redmerski would be releasing another book featuring Camryn and Andrew. 

But he lets me call him Drew--we roll like that, lol.

So, if you love to have your heart wrenched from your chest and stomped on a bit before being shoved in a blender and hitting the puree button--this book is your cup of angst. 

The Edge of Always finds Andrew and Camryn facing hard decisions and painful events. After tragedy strikes the young couple, Andrew is determined not to let Camryn slip away. She is spiraling down a dark tunnel of denial with all that has happened to her. She is left feeling numb and unable to face the unknown possibilities of her future.  

But it is with Andrew's love, devotion, and determination, that she somehow puts the pieces of her shattered heart back together and finally deals with the bad hand that life has dealt her. 

Andrew takes his girl on a spontaneous road trip where they re-discover each other and the reasons why they fell in love in the first place. 

The Edge of Always is an emotional read filled with painful tragedies, well developed characters, and a soulful journey. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

BLOG TOUR -- TRUST IN ME BY JENNIFER ARMENTROUT

Trust In Me

Companion to #1 New York Times Bestselling 

WAIT FOR YOU

By: Jennifer L. Armentrout

Writing as J. Lynn

William Morrow

Releasing Oct 22^nd, 2013

Blurb

It's Wait for You as you've never seen it. Trust in Me lets you in on Cam's side of the #1 New York Times bestselling story.

Cameron Hamilton is used to getting what he wants, especially when it comes to women. But when Avery Morgansten comes crashing into his life—literally—he finally meets the one person who can resist his soulful baby blues. But Cam's not ready to give up. He can't get the feisty and intriguing girl out of his head.

Avery has secrets, secrets that keep her from admitting the feelings Cam knows she has for him. Will persistence (and some delicious homemade cookies) help him break down her barriers and gain her trust? Or will he be shut out of Avery's life, losing his first real shot at the kind of love that lasts forever?

Purchase Links:

Amazon / B&N / iTunes

Author Info

# 1 NEW YORK TIMES and USA TODAY Bestselling author Jennifer lives in Martinsburg, West Virginia. All the rumors you’ve heard about her state aren’t true. When she’s not hard at work writing. she spends her time reading, working out, watching really bad zombie movies, pretending to write, and hanging out with her husband and her Jack Russel Loki.

Her dreams of becoming an author started in algebra class, where she spent most of her time writing short stories….which explains her dismal grades in math. Jennifer writes Young Adult paranormal, science fiction, fantasy, and contemporary romance. She is published with Spencer Hill Press, Entangled Teen and Brazen, Disney/Hyperion and Harlequin Teen.

Author Links

Website / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads 

Click here to follow the tour.

Book Review

Fans of J. Lynn's book, Wait For You, will not only LURVE Trust In Me--but devour it!

Camden can't help but be sexy, charming, and have girls falling all over him. He has it all--looks, rocking hard body, and he's funny as hell. What girl would turn him down?

The answer is Avery Morgansten.

She seems to have no problem saying no to Cam. 

But that just makes the chase all the more sweeter, right?

But as Camden tries to woo and charm his way to get Avery to say yes to a date, the two grow closer and a friendship develops. 

Trust In Me is a retelling of Wait For You, but well worth the read. The reader gets a chance to delve inside Cam's head and see what he's thinking. 

No, there's really nothing new here, but it was great to read this story again and laugh along with the characters and feel the heartache as Avery and Cam grow closer and their secrets come to light. 

It did help, however, that it had been a while since I read Wait For Me, so the story felt fresh for me and not stagnant. And what can I say, Camden charmed me...again. 




a Rafflecopter giveaway