Lana – Page 104

Review: Rocco by Sarah Castille

January 8, 2018 by Lana · Leave a Comment

ROCCO
Series: Ruin & Revenge #3
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Suspense
Author: Sarah Castille
Release Date: January 2, 2017

Mafia enforcer, Rocco De Lucchi is the best in the business.

Cold, hard and utterly ruthless, Rocco is the most dangerous of men.

Feelings are a luxury he cannot afford—until a chance encounter brings him face to face with the only woman who found her way into his heart and touched his soul.

Grace Mantini has spent her whole life running from the mob. Daughter of the boss’s right hand man, she is both a prize and a target.

When Rocco walks back into her life, she wants nothing to do with the man who betrayed her and broke her heart.

But only Rocco can protect her from the dangerous forces that seek to destroy her family.

Can they escape the hands of fate closing around them?

Or will love be the kiss of death for them both?

AMAZON | iBOOKS

Rocco by Sarah Castille
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

4 STARS

Once upon a time those eyes had looked into her soul, and those lips had touched every part of her body. Once upon a time all that beauty had belonged to her, and then the mob had stolen it away.

I love me a gritty and sexy mafia romance, and man if this book didn’t hit the spot. An enforcer, a mafia princess, and an underground power struggle war between rivaling families, all weaving together into a story brimming with sexual tension, action and suspense. Rocco was a page turner from beginning to finish.

I was an instant fan of Sarah Castille when I first read Nico, but this was definitely my favorite book in the series so far. There was just something so tortured about Rocco that I couldn’t get enough off. This is a man that never had a choice in the life he leads. A baptism by fire is an understatement for how he was introduced to it. His training and childhood guaranteed to shape him into a ruthless, coldblooded killer and enforcer for the mafia. He’s a man that makes others tremble in fear at the mere mention of his name, but struggles to feel any emotion beyond rage and hatred himself.

But one time, years ago, he was different. At one time, he had a dream of a different life with a woman that was ripped from him in much the same way he was introduced into the mafia life; violently and without mercy. She’s a woman that he never forgot and never got over. And now a mob war brings her into the epicenter of his storm, and nothing will stop him from having her again.

His kiss was everything, her world, her life, the beat of her heart, the rise and fall of her lungs, nectar for her soul. His tongue pushed through the barrier of her lips and she took him in, devoured him, hands fisting his shirt, pulling him close. Out. Of. Control.

As the daughter of the underboss, Grace Mantini isn’t a stranger to mafia. But even though she loves her brother and father who are engrained in the life, she wants nothing to do with it. Not years ago when she learned the hard truth of who her family is, and certainly not now, knowing the full depth of it. But when her life is in danger and her family looks to be the target of a hit, she has no choice but turn to the man that she once couldn’t run faster away from.

This was a roller coaster of a book; full of action and sizzling romance. While the younger version of Grace from years ago was naive and sweet, the Grace of today is different. She knows exactly who Rocco is and her reaction to what he does for a living is different. She understands the life they live is one that they can’t always run from. I loved the chemistry between the two of them. It was a pulse pounding and suspenseful ride from beginning to finish. There was also a little side story that weaved into the plot of this one with Mike. And while I wasn’t too interested in his story previously, I was downright salivating for his HEA by the end of this one.

Sarah Castille has an interesting writing style that took me a while to get used to. She has a tendency to repeat and overly describe certain mafia details that can get redundant at times. However, if you’ve never read a mafia romance before, those details wouldn’t go under appreciated.

THE SERIES

: Nico (Ruin & Revenge, #1)

: Luca (Ruin & Revenge, #2)

: Rocco (Ruin & Revenge, #3)

NICO | LUCA | ROCCO

Leave a Comment · Filed Under: All Reviews, Contemporary Romance, Romantic Suspense · Tagged With: Book Reviews: 4 stars, Mafia, Sarah Castille

New & Upcoming Releases: January 8-11

January 8, 2018 by Lana · Leave a Comment

New releases coming at ya this week!

RELEASING JANUARY 8

MOST LIKELY TO SCORE by Lauren Blakely

A sexy new forbidden romance from #1 NYT Bestselling Author Lauren Blakely…

It should have been a simple play…
She needed a football player to step up and be the star for a charity calendar. I needed a sharp and savvy publicist to manage a brand-new sponsorship deal. I scratched her back. She scratched mine. And oh hell, did Jillian ever drag her nails down my back on one hell of a hot night. Okay fine, it was several hot nights on the road.
Now we’re back in town and it’s time to set the play clock back to when we were simply player and publicist. Given the way the last few years have gone, I can’t risk this deal, so it’s hands off for us once again. Trouble is, I want more than than just another night with her.
What’s a guy to do when he’s always been most likely to score, but the woman he’s falling for is just out of bounds?
***
I don’t date players. And I definitely don’t sleep with players. And I absolutely don’t fall for a certain player when I get to know him and learn he’s more than just sexy — he’s clever, funny and has a heart as big as his . .. well, you get my drift.
But my job is at stake, and I can’t afford to lose that as well as my heart. The problem is, I think I’ve already lost that game.
What’s a girl to do when the clock is running out, but the man she’s falling for is off limits?

COCKSURE by KI Lynn & Olivia Kelley

Niko

My life is great. I love my job, have awesome friends, and a great family.
Women love me, even if they know it’s just for a night.
I always thought love at first sight was bullshit. Then she came storming into my life.
She tore through my every rule, rocked my world, and knocked me on my ass.
There’s only one problem…she lied.
Turns out my best friends little sister isn’t so little anymore.

Everly

I stole a night with my fantasy. Lied to him.
After ten years of not seeing each other, Niko doesn’t even recognize me.
So I take what I want from him, what I need from him. Without worry. Without consequence.
What I didn’t count on was the lingering need for him.
What I chose to forget is that he is my brother’s best friend.
Once the truth is out, the game changes. There are consequences.
I should have known nothing in my life is ever simple.

EXECUTIVE INK by Carrie Ann Ryan

Ashylnn didn’t want him…she craved him. That was her first mistake, but not her last.

She’s the boss of her life and decisions.

She doesn’t have time for a bearded, inked man.

But he may just make her yearn for it.

Jax thought it would only be for one night but now he wants more. She’s the straight-laced executive to his leather-and-jeans life, and she makes him desire more. She is so much more. But how much, he may never know.

Author Note: Executive Ink is a Montgomery Ink short story and a little different than what you’re used to from me. It’s shorter than my other novellas at only ~12,000 words. It has a complete HEA, and is perfect for a steamy evening, one-sitting read.

Executive Ink was previously published in the Alphas of Danger Anthology.

LOVE BETWEEN ENEMIES by Molly E. Lee

Zoey Handler is ready to put an end to her decade-long rivalry with Gordon Meyers. They’ve traded top spot between valedictorian and salutatorian for years, but all that’s over now. Right? But after a crazy graduation speech prank gets out of hand, suddenly their rivalry turns into all-out war. Time to make peace with a little friendly payback.

Step one? Make him believe they’re now friends.

Step two? Show him the time of his life at an epic graduation party.

Step three? Don’t fall for his tricks.

Step four? Absolutely, positively, do not kiss him again.

So what if he’s cute? (Okay, hot.) So what if he’s charming? (Heaven help her, tempting.) So what if he apologizes? (That has to be fake.) She knows the real Gordon. And no matter how much her heart begs her to stop, there’s no turning back.

Disclaimer: This Entangled Teen Crush book contains one epic party, complete with every high-schoolers-gone-bad shenanigan, and two rivals who discover maybe they could be something much more…if only they’d stop fighting long enough to notice it.

SOMETHING SO IRRESISTIBLE by Natasha Madison

The third installment in the best-selling Something Series

Max Horton

They call me an outcast like it’s a bad thing.

An asshole byproduct of a shitty upbringing. I don’t care about anything except myself and my little sister.

I will always protect what’s mine.

With one year left on my hockey contract I’m keeping my head down and my eyes on the goal.

A collision, with her, changes my entire existence.

Allison Grant

Never fall in love with a sports star. That’s what my stepfather always said. He told me athletes are complicated and moody—that the higher their paycheck, the lower their morals.

As public relations for the New York Stingers I know exactly what he means, but I can’t seem to say no to a friendship with one beautiful, damaged man.

What started out as hate turned into something else.

We tried to stay away, to keep our distance, but the pull was too strong.

Something forbidden turned into something so irresistible.

RELAY by Layla Reyne

Captain is not a title Alejandro “Alex” Cantu takes lightly. Elected by his teammates to helm the US Men’s Swim Team, he proudly accepts the role, despite juggling endless training, team administrative work, and helping out on the family farm. And despite his ex-lover, Dane Ellis—swimming’s biggest star—also making the Olympic Team.

Dane has been a pawn in his celebrity parents’ empire from crib to pool, flashing his camera-ready smile on demand and staying deeply in the closet. Only once did he drop the act—the summer he fell in love with Alex. Ten years later, Dane longs to cut his parents’ strings, drop his too-bright smile, and beg Alex for another chance.

Alex, though, isn’t ready to forgive and forget, and Dane is a distraction he doesn’t need on his team, until an injury forces Alex to accept Dane as his medley relay anchor. Working together, their passion reignites. When Dane’s parents threaten reprisal and Alex is accused of doping, the two must risk everything to prove Alex’s innocence, to love one another, and to win back their spots on the team, together.

RELEASING JANUARY 9

BLOOD FURY by JR Ward

In this sexy paranormal romance novel set in the world of the Black Dagger Brotherhood, #1New York Times bestselling author J. R. Ward tells the story of two couples—both fighting to find love in the midst of the war with the Lessening Society.

A vampire aristocrat, Peyton is well aware of his duty to his bloodline: mate with an appropriate female of his class and carry on his family’s traditions. And he thought he’d found his perfect match—until she fell in love with someone else. Yet when his split-second decision in a battle with the enemy endangers the life of another trainee, Peyton has to face the idea that his future, and his heart, actually lie with another.

Novo, as a female in the Black Dagger Brotherhood’s training program, feels like she has to prove herself to everybody—and she has no interest in being distracted by falling in love. But when Peyton proves to be so much more than a rich playboy, she is forced to confront the tragedy that has broken her soul and closed her off from love.

As the two grapple with Novo’s past and Peyton’s present, another couple must contend with a connection that is unparalleled—and potentially scandalous. Saxton, who has had his heart broken, discovers in himself a deep-seated attraction to Ruhn, a new member of the household. But will the other male explore the connection? Or will he close his mind and his heart to what could be true love . . . and cost Saxton everything?

HOT SHOT by Karina Halle

A standalone friends-to-lovers romance from the NYT bestselling author of The Pact and Bad at Love.

If love is friendship set on fire, then theirs is about to go up in flames

Delilah Gordon has a secret.

She’s been in love with her best friend and the boy next door, Fox Nelson, since she was six years old.

And while most of her friends and family know about her unrequited crush, the one person who remains oblivious is Fox himself. To Delilah, it’s better this way. She’d rather pretend that they’re just friends, even though her feelings for the moody, rugged mountain man are anything but tame.

Fox Nelson has a secret too. As a wildland firefighter or “hot shot,” Fox parachutes into danger every day he’s on the job, risking all to fight wildfires that threaten ranches, forests and thousands of lives. But while Fox’s job is only for the brave, inside he feels anything but. The more he grapples with his raging demons, the more he realizes Delilah is the only one who can put out the flames.

As the two friends grow closer – and more intimate – than ever before, the more complicated their relationship becomes.
And Delilah has one more secret to reveal.

A secret that will change both their lives…forever.

***This is book #3 of the North Ridge Series, however like the previous two books, Wild Card (#1) and Maverick (#2), it stands alone and can be read without reading the others***

This book contains excess profanity/swearing and scenes of a graphic sexual nature. Sensitive readers who do not wish to expose themselves to bad language and sex scenes should take note. You have been officially warned..

INFRACTION by Rachel Van Dyken

New York Times bestselling author Rachel Van Dyken proves that everyone scores to win. But off the field, a fumble can change the entire game.

Pro footballer Miller Quinton would do anything for his best friend and teammate—including “fake dating” his friend’s sister. What no one knows is that seven months ago in Vegas, Miller and Kinsey did a whole lot more than just kiss. Miller knows that this cheerleader is off-limits to him and any guy on the team. Still, he can’t stop himself.

Kinsey’s whole world is on the verge of crumbling. Her dad has cancer. Her overprotective brother is falling apart. Dating Miller may be a fake-out, but he’s the one guy who can make her forget about everything—including all the reasons she stayed away from football players. With each heated moment, Miller feels more like a safe place…even though he’s not safe at all.

Now temptation is testing every rule in the game of love. But how long can they go on playing when winning is a harder goal than either of them imagined?

BEAUTIFUL KILLER by Sherilee Gray

She’s wanted a big family ever since her distant father and cold stepfamily isolated her from affection. He’s an ex-SEAL sniper with PTSD.

Too bad she’s been told she can never have children, never have a family of her own.

Too bad he’s shut off his heart from love.

What do you do when one secret could bring you ultimate happiness…or destroy everything you hold close?

Beautiful Killer is an intense, ultra-sexy standalone novel set in the world of the Lawless Kings. Sherilee Gray’s raw, deeply-emotional voice will leave you breathless long after the last page.

“Shattered King is a sexy, beautiful second chance love story… a truly enjoyable read.” – Sawyer Bennett, New York Times bestselling author

“Raw, gritty, and full of supercharged sexual tension…SHATTERED KING will break you into pieces right before it stitches you back together again.” -Diana Gardin, author of SWORN TO PROTECT, Rescue OP’s Series

THE WRIGHT SECRET by KA Linde

A new brother’s-best-friend stand alone romance by USA Today bestselling author K.A. Linde…

I was just his best friend’s little sister.

But he was always more than that to me.

After twelve years of pining over Patrick’s easy smile, baby blues, and captivating charm, I decide to take matters into my own hands—and completely blow my chance.

Who knew a self-proclaimed manwhore would decide to be a gentleman the first time I’m naked in his bed? Definitely, not me. But when I land there again, neither of us has any intention of stopping.

There’s only one problem: nobody can know. Especially not my three older brothers. If they found out, all hell would break loose.

So I’m willing to keep our secret…

Because I want him Wright here, right now.

FAKE WIFE by Stacey Lynn

This marriage is strictly business . . . until the temptation gets way too real.

Corbin: I loved my grandma, but I don’t need her money. All I care about is keeping the house—the only place that’s ever felt like home. That, and screwing over my dad, who wants to turn the property into a mall. There’s only one catch: To receive my inheritance, I have to get married within six months. Me, the guy who’s never dated a girl for more than six minutes. Now I need to find a woman I can trust. So when I’m rear-ended by a Prius, I figure it’s a sign that I’m supposed to meet gorgeous, down-to-earth Teagan Monroe.

Teagan: First I lose my job. Then I come home and find out—in the most graphic way possible . . . yeah, that way—that my boyfriend is a cheating jerk. And then I speed off and nearly kill Portland’s sexiest bachelor. Corbin Lane should be pissed. Instead, he offers me more money than I’ve ever seen in my life to marry him and live together in a mansion for two years. No sex. No feelings. Just cash—enough to make all my dreams come true. Then we go and break all our rules . . . and I realize I’m falling in love with my fake fiancé.

EXCEPTION by Mariah Dietz

He’s arrogant.

Loud.

Rude.

And to make matters worse, he looks good doing it—too good.

Joey DeLuca should have been nothing but a maddening memory, a blip on my radar during my three month sabbatical in my small hometown while I get back on my feet.

My time back home was supposed to be simple. Easy. Fast.

But he’s everywhere I go, invading my thoughts, and stealing my attention.

Is it possible to hate the same person I can’t get enough of?

Is there really an exception to every rule?

LAST CHANCE by Lauren Runow

Last Chance is a story of love and heartache proving that life is not always fair, but it’s worth the pain to get the moments you’ll treasure forever.

Mackenzie

From the very first moment I laid eyes on him, I knew my heart was his for the taking. He was the boy who filled me with butterflies and made my palms turn clammy at the mere sight of him.

There was only one problem… he was my best friend’s older brother.

It’s been eight years since I’ve last seen him, and I refuse to live another day without telling him the truth. So here I stand, taking my last chance to get him to notice me, my last chance to see if he feels the same way.

I need to know if he is just a fantasy, or if he could be my reality…

Before my reality changes forever.

Connor

I never wanted a girlfriend; I was burned by love and vowed to never go down that road again. But when the beautiful girl I’ve known practically my entire life snuck her way into my arms there was something that changed in me. I wanted to be with her, next to her. Just simply kissing her lips made my life complete.

Now I have one mission.

To make hers complete, too.

MAN CANDY by Jessica Lemmon

Is there room for two in that sleeping bag? When it comes to love, a chiseled loner takes the scenic route in this irresistible standalone from the author of Eye Candy

Dax: After spending months buried up to my eyeballs in my family’s affairs, I’m ready for a break. The kind of break where I can spend two solid weeks camping and fishing in the company of absolutely no one. Then I find myself directly in the path of a drop-dead gorgeous tornado by the name of Becca Stone. Who can resist a night with a damsel in distress? Especially when she happens to be a leggy blonde? The last thing I expect is for Becca to show up on my cabin doorstep the next night, shivering in the rain and ready for seconds.

Becca: One minute I’m admiring the rock-hard jaw of the Magic Mike lookalike who walks into my bar, and the next I’m getting fired by my own brother. Loudly. In front of everyone. Luckily Dax Vaughn is a gentleman who aims his white-hot smile at me. Oh, it’s on. Wham, bam, thank you ma’am. Then a torrential storm washes out the main road and causes a massive power outage, giving us two whole weeks to enjoy each other’s company. At which point Dax will go back home, leaving “us” in the rearview mirror. That’s the plan. Or it was . . . until I started falling for him.

FALLING FOR MR. MAYBE by Jennifer Gardiner

If it swells, ride it…

Georgie Childress moved to Verity Beach to lick her wounds after her controlling fiancé pulled a runner mere weeks before the wedding. Jobless and desperate to flee his turf, she sought solace in the quietude of the ocean, happily escaping into her own thoughts while surrounded by diving dolphins and cacophonous seagulls. Only when she accidentally runs over some random—and super sexy—surfer dude’s surfboard does she start to wonder if she needs to bring her head out of the clouds and start paying attention to life again.

Spencer Willoughby long ago fled his rigid upbringing, shunning the familial expectations of an Ivy League education and Wall Street career in favor of the sun, sand and surf along North Carolina’s Outer Banks. Give him a surfboard and he’s a happy man. That is until some nutty lady with a penchant for fender-benders backs into his beloved hand-crafted wooden surfboard, snapping it in half. It’s enough to make a man crazy—crazier still because the kooky blond is making his blood run hot.

Just when he finally gets the woman out of his head, Spencer is unwittingly paired off with her at a wedding as a favor to a friend, forcing him to make nice with his board-murdering nemesis who he might just want to ride off into the sunset.

LEARNING TO LOVE THE HEAT by Everly Lucas

What she needs most might be what she least expects…

Living without air conditioning in a Philadelphia heat wave has Claire on the brink of a total meltdown. When she escapes her overheated apartment to spend a day at the park, the last thing she expects—or wants—is for a gorgeous guy to chat her up. But his sweet smile and nerdy charm are impossible for even Claire to resist.

Patience and persistence go hand in hand…

For Ben, Claire is the One, but there’s a small snag—she’s terrified of a man’s touch. But now that he’s found her, he’ll never let her go, even if he never gets to hold her.
Another snag? Her obvious attraction to his best friend.

Sometimes it takes fire to wash you clean…

Ben respects Claire’s firm boundaries, but Andy crashes right through them. He’s arrogant, crude, a total jackass…and criminally sexy.
Even if she can fix what’s broken inside her, how will she choose between the delicious slow burn she feels with Ben and the explosive inferno Andy ignites in her?
Can they find their happy ending without three hearts going up in flames?

*This is a STANDALONE novel with a slow burn, a seriously steamy ending, and an unconventional HEA*

RELEASING JANUARY 10

BAYSIDE PASSIONS by Melissa Foster

Fall in love at Bayside, where sandy beaches, good friends, and true love come together in the sweet small towns of Cape Cod.

BAYSIDE SUMMERS is a series of standalone steamy romance novels featuring alpha male heroes and sexy, empowered women. They’re fun, flirty, flawed, deeply emotional, always passionate, and easy to relate to. And of course, you’ll see cameos from the Seaside Summers characters!

In BAYSIDE PASSIONS…
When Emery Andrews’s best friend, Desiree, moves away, falls in love, and opens a an inn all in one summer, she feels her absence like a missing limb. Until she visits over the holidays and meets sinfully hot Dean Masters, who’s as easy on the eyes as he is to talk to. After returning home, what starts as a flurry of late-night flirtations quickly turns into a deep connection and unexpected friendship. Now, months later, Desiree offers Emery a job teaching yoga at the inn. Adventurous Emery jumps at the chance and heads for Wellfleet, Massachusetts, to reunite with her BFF and her new close friend, Dean.

After months of sharing their lives, and their secrets, over video chats and phone calls, Dean’s ready to move things to the next level. The fact that Emery seems oblivious to the sparks between them and has recently put her foot down about dating friends just means he’ll have to bide his time.

When Emery finds a naked man in her kitchen the first morning she’s there, Dean doesn’t hesitate to move her into his guest room. Maybe now Emery will see what’s right before her eyes–although that guy she’s got a date with might be a problem.

RELEASING JANUARY 11

MY ENEMY NEXT DOOR by Nicole London & Whitney G.

We used to be close.
We used to be best friends.
Until we became enemies all over again…

Courtney Ryan ruined our on and off again friendship with one swipe of her sexy, red pen. After the final rude message she wrote in my yearbook, I decided that we didn’t need to see each other anymore. (But if we ever did, I would show her exactly why I had every reason to be “cocky,” and make her admit that I really *was* “that damn sexy.”)

Now that it’s ten years later, I’ve graduated from law school at the top of my class, and I’m being recruited to work at the number one law firm in New York City.

Since I’m in desperate need of a change and want to meet new people, I don’t hesitate to accept the offer.

Until I find out that Courtney Ryan graduated from law school, too.
Until I realize that she’ll be working at the same exact firm, in the office right across from me.

And if this timing isn’t unfortunate enough, she’s far more tempting and sexier than I originally remembered.
(Oh, and last night I found out that she lives right next door...)

We don’t have to be close.
We don’t have to be best friends.
But she’s going to pay me back for making us enemies all over again…

THE HAIL YOU SAY by Lani Lynn Vale

Get out!

He yelled those words at the love of his life twelve years ago, and to this day, Reed Hail regrets them. He’s always been the type of person to speak before he thinks, and apologies have never come easy.

It’s been over a decade since she was his, and he stubbornly thinks that he can keep on living without her.

He couldn’t be more wrong.

The last thing he needs is her vagina anywhere near his exam table. But nobody ever asks him what he wants.

Maybe he should’ve gone into the auto-recovery business after all.

I hate you.

Krisney Shaw would take those words back in a heartbeat if she could. In fact, she would take back everything.

Never meeting him would be the perfect place to start. The memory of Reed Hail haunts her—morning, noon, and night.
Then, to add insult to injury, she has to see him being happy while she’s breaking a little more inside every single day.

Reed Hail is her worst nightmare because she’s constantly reminded of exactly what she’s missing—the other half of her soul.

Just when she thinks things can’t get worse, she’s sees his sexy, bearded face over the top of her paper gown, and she’s lost all over again.

Don’t ever let me go.

Both Reed and Krisney are determined to avoid each other. They do a great job of it, too…not.

One ill-timed gynecological exam changes everything. One single second in time shows Reed what he’s missing—literally and figuratively—and suddenly he’s back at square one.

The only problem with being back at square one? He won’t be able to leave her a second time.

Especially since the first time around he didn’t have a child with her to consider.

Leave a Comment · Filed Under: Upcoming Releases · Tagged With: New Release, upcoming releases

Excerpt: Three Blind Dates by Meghan Quinn

January 5, 2018 by Lana · Leave a Comment

THREE BLIND DATES
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Author: Meghan Quinn
Release Day: January 4^th, 2018

“Good Morning Malibu, it’s another beautiful day on the west coast! I’m Noely Clark, your host: and I’m in the market for love…”

When the publicity team of the new local restaurant, Going in Blind, began their search for a hot, local celebrity to promote the wildly popular eatery, they couldn’t have found a better person than me.

Outgoing? Check.
Single? Check.
Open to finding love? Check.

I signed up immediately.

A hopeless romantic with an exceedingly demanding schedule, I’ve found it impossible to find the man of my dreams—so Going in Blind seems too good to be true! That’s until they start setting me up on dates—three very different, very attractive, very distinct blind dates—and only one thing is for certain . . .

I’m in big trouble.

Good Morning Malibu,
I’m Noely Clark, and I have a choice to make.
The question is who will I choose; the suit, the rebel, or the jock

AMAZON | AMAZON PAPERBACK

I didn’t realize how close I was to the restaurant because I’m ten minutes early. Does that make me seem desperate? No, I chastise myself. It shows that I respect the other person’s time . . . right?God, dating is the worst. There are so many unspoken rules you have to follow to not look desperate, or to not look like a psycho, or a creep, or horny, or—

“Can I help you, miss?”

Straightening up, I turn toward the hostess stand, which is a beautifully carved piece of wood. Standing behind it is an exotic, tall woman with long black hair, stunning grey eyes, and a massive engagement ring on her hand. Please tell me she got that rock from dating someone in this program.

Don’t get me wrong. It’s not that happiness for my life is dependent on getting married, but to see a success story in the flesh—particularly for me—would be encouraging.

“Hi, yes, I’m Noely Clark. I have a date at seven tonight with”—I lean forward, feeling silly and whisper—“with WindsorKnot.”

Her smile is kind and reassuring, making me feel a little calmer. “Yes, Miss Clark, I have you here for seven. You’re date hasn’t arrived yet, so can I show you to the bar for a drink while you wait?”

“That would be lovely, thank you.”

With my clutch tucked under my arm, I follow tall, dark, and beautiful to the bar where a very handsome Asian man is standing with a towel draped over his shoulder and a bright grin on his face. He’s wearing a button-up shirt with rolled sleeves, a brown vest covering his chest, which totally channels his inner Justin Timberlake.

“Danny, this is Miss Clark. She has a reservation at seven. Would you be so kind to make her whatever drink she would like?”

“Of course.” He winks at the hostess who presses her warm hand on my arm.

“Enjoy, Miss Clark. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask. My name is Veronica, this is Danny, and we will be happy to serve you in any way.” With a parting grin, she moves back to her hostess spot.

Well, she’s nice.

“Miss Clark, please take a seat. What would you like?”

My tight, formfitting red dress makes my hop onto the bar stool a difficult task, but with a pleading prayer to the dress gods and a swift jump, I situate myself, only breaking a minor sweat.

I let out a sigh of relief and place my hands on the bar in front of me, scanning the glitzy bottles of “muscle relaxant.” “Hmm . . . how about a Moscow Mule?”

“Coming right up.” He gets to work and I watch as he magically floats around the bar, pulling the ingredients. “We recently bought new copper mugs, and I’ve been dying to use them.”

“Yeah? Am I the first?”

Winking, he says, “You are.”

If I didn’t know any better, I would say Danny is a bit of a flirt. Either that or he’s super friendly. Or simply made to be a bartender.

From beneath the bar, Danny pulls out a shiny, hammered-copper mug, and I’m instantly taken by the design. So sleek, just like its surroundings. The restaurant, with its white exposed brick, natural wood features, electric colors, and stone tabletops, is sexy, yet inviting. The friendly waitstaff is an absolute bonus. Every table is cornered off in its own spot, never getting too close to the other tables around it, and the mood lighting is on point with dim Edison bulb lights hanging from the ceiling and tabletop candles. I’m feeling the mood.

Despite the welcoming atmosphere, I can’t help but feel nervous, even after my brief exchange with WindsorKnot. There’s something to say about a blind date: the anticipation, the unknown, the knowledge that you’re having dinner with someone to possibly form a romantic relationship. It’s intimidating, but exhilarating all at the same time.

Could this be the last time I ever go on a first date? Will he like me? Will he want to get to know me?

Butterflies float around in my stomach and my cheeks heat as Danny places a napkin in front of me, topped by my drink with a lime slice on the side.

“Here you go, Miss Clark. Please enjoy.”

I smile politely. “Thank you.” When I take a sip, I’m instantly assaulted by the ginger-lime combination. Perfect. “This is fantastic.”

“Good.” Danny winks again and like an old-time bartender, starts drying a tumbler with the towel hanging over his shoulder. Eyeing me for a second, he asks, “A little nervous?”

After taking a sip from my drink, I lick my lips and nod. “Just a little.” I scrunch my nose, squinting ever so slightly. “Is it obvious?”

“Nah, you look pretty chill compared to a lot of blind daters I see come through the door.”

“Oh, I’m sure you see a lot of different reactions to these dates.” I lean forward, the cold wood of the bar cooling my sweaty hands, and whisper, “Any good stories you can tell me?”

Danny chuckles quietly and leans forward himself, taking a look from side to side before answering. “Plenty, but looks like your date just arrived.”

My date just arrived?

The temperature in the room seems to go up a thousand degrees as my body seizes and my shoulders tense. “Oh God, can you see him? Is he hot? What does he look like? Should I turn around? No, I shouldn’t, he would know I was checking him out.” Whispering a little louder, I ask again, “Just tell me, is he cute?”

Danny’s eyes scan over my head and his smile stretches across his face. “That’s for you to judge, not me.” Damn you, Danny.

Oh Christ, I’m not ready.

That’s right, I’m not freaking ready for this.

I get it, I know I said I was ready, that I wanted to do this, that I was all-in, that I wanted to find my soul mate, but now that I’m here, seconds from meeting “the one,” I’m pretty sure I’m going to throw up. Yep, I’m going to throw up. I can feel it rising.

Oh God, I’m going to retch all over him, right on his shoes. I know it. It’s bound to happen.

“Relax, you’re going to have fun,” Danny whispers before he turns to the bottles behind him.

As if the light hairs on my arm can sense it, they stand at attention as the sound of faint footsteps come closer.

Click, click, click. The cement floor leaves zero room for sneaking up on anyone.

Don’t throw up, don’t throw up. Think compliments, think pleasantries, think—

“Hello.”

Smooth molasses drips over my shoulders as the most velvet of voices I’ve ever heard echoes behind me, pulling me away from the death grip on my copper mug and turning me in my seat to face one of the most handsome and polished men I’ve ever seen.

Born in New York and raised in Southern California, Meghan has grown into a sassy, peanut butter eating, blonde haired swearing, animal hoarding lady. She is known to bust out and dance if “It’s Raining Men” starts beating through the air and heaven forbid you get a margarita in her, protect your legs because they may be humped.

Once she started commuting for an hour and twenty minutes every day to work for three years, she began to have conversations play in her head, real life, deep male voices and dainty lady coos kind of conversations. Perturbed and confused, she decided to either see a therapist about the hot and steamy voices running through her head or start writing them down. She decided to go with the cheaper option and started writing… enter her first novel, Caught Looking.

Now you can find the spicy, most definitely on the border of lunacy, kind of crazy lady residing in Colorado with the love of her life and her five, furry four legged children, hiking a trail or hiding behind shelves at grocery stores, wondering what kind of lube the nervous stranger will bring home to his wife. Oh and she loves a good boob squeeze!

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Geri & Lana’s Most Anticipated Books of 2018

December 31, 2017 by Lana · Leave a Comment

Anyone else as over 2017 as we are? OK, so that’s a little harsh. We’re not that over 2017, it was a good year to us after all. But looking at all the new releases coming our way in 2018 makes us all too itchy for the new year and all the prettehs. We’ve already started a countdown for some of these releases because WANT! ALL OF THE WANT! Check out our most anticipated 2018 reads below.

LANA’S MOST ANTICIPATED 2018 RELEASES

OCEAN LIGHT by Nalini Singh – Release Date: June 12, 2018

AMAZON | GOODREADS

I am obsessed, simply obsessed with this PNR series. If you haven’t read her Psy/Changelling series yet, you’re seriously missing out on a life altering experience. I’m simply dying for this brand new release in her Psy-Changeling Trinity series

New York Times bestselling author Nalini Singh dives beneath the surface of her Psy-Changeling world into a story of passionate devotion and selfless love…

Security specialist Bowen Knight has come back from the dead. But there’s a ticking time bomb in his head: a chip implanted to block telepathic interference that could fail at any moment—taking his brain along with it. With no time to waste, he should be back on land helping the Human Alliance. Instead, he’s at the bottom of the ocean, consumed with an enigmatic changeling…

Kaia Luna may have traded in science for being a chef, but she won’t hide the facts of Bo’s condition from him or herself. She’s suffered too much loss in her life to fall prey to the dangerous charm of a human who is a dead man walking. And she carries a devastating secret Bo could never imagine…

But when Kaia is taken by those who mean her deadly harm, all bets are off. Bo will do anything to get her back—even if it means striking a devil’s bargain and giving up his mind to the enemy…

THE DARKEST WARRIOR by Gena Showalter – Release Date: June 26, 2018

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I’m not going to lie, when I saw that Ginny won’t be ending up with William, I may have cried a little. OK, so I threw a small (read= huge) tantrum fit, actually. I feel like their story has been building up for years, so to find out they won’t be getting a HEA together was disappointing. But I have to have faith in whatever Gena Showalter is cooking up with the rest of this series, and I’m still giddy with excitement for this story.

A searing Lords of the Underworld tale by New York Times bestselling author Gena Showalter, featuring a beastly prince and the wife he will wage war to keep

He is ice…

Puck the Undefeated, host of the demon of Indifference, cannot experience emotion without punishment, so he allows himself to feel nothing. Until her. According to ancient prophecy, she is the key to avenging his past, saving his realm and ruling as king. All he must do? Steal her from the man she loves—and marry her.

She is fire…

Gillian Shaw has suffered many tragedies in her too-short life, but nothing could have prepared the fragile human for her transition into immortality. To survive, she must wed a horned monster who both intrigues and frightens her…and become the warrior queen she was born to be.

Together they burn.

As a rising sense of possession and obsession overtake Puck, so does insatiable lust. The more he learns about his clever, resourceful wife, the more he craves her. And the more time Gillian spends with her protective husband, the more she aches for him. But the prophecy also predicts an unhappily-ever-after. Can Puck defeat fate itself to keep the woman who brought his deadened heart back to life? Or will they succumb to destiny, losing each other…and everything they’ve been fighting for?

THE THIEF by JR Ward – Release Date: April 10, 2018

GOODREADS | AMAZON

Um, it’s a new BDB book. Do I need more reason than that?

New enemies rise and desire burns in the next thrilling novel of the #1 New York Times bestselling paranormal romance series the Black Dagger Brotherhood.

Sola Morte, former cat burglar and safecracker, has given up her old life on the wrong side of the law. On the run from a drug lord’s family, she is lying low far from Caldwell, keeping her nose clean and her beloved grandmother safe. Her heart, though, is back up north, with the only man who has ever gotten through her defenses: Assail, son of Assail, who never meant to fall in love—and certainly not with a human woman. But they have no future, and not just because she doesn’t know he is a vampire, but because he is not about to stop dealing arms to the Black Dagger Brotherhood. Fate, however, has other plans for them. When Assail falls into a coma and lingers on the verge of death, his cousins seek out Sola and beg her to give him a reason to live. The last thing she wants is a return to her past, but how can she leave him to die?

As a lethal new enemy of the vampires shows its face, and the Brotherhood needs Assail back on his feet, Sola finds herself not only a target, but a mission-critical force in a war she doesn’t understand. And when Assail’s truth comes out, will she run from the horror . . . or follow her heart into the arms of the male who loves her more than life itself?

DOWN WITH LOVE by Kate Meader – Release Date: August 7, 2018

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No one and I mean NO ONE writes an enemies to lovers trope better than Kate. Having read her entire backlist, I can attest to that fact. The blurb for this book has me absolutely salivating!!!

Sparks fly when the hot-shot divorce lawyer meets the high-powered wedding planner. The only question is, what kind?

If you ever get married, remember my name: Max Henderson. In my line of work, you acquire a certain perspective on supposedly everlasting unions. . . .

1. Pre-nups are your friend.
2. The person you married is not the person you’re divorcing.
3. And I hope you didn’t spend much on the wedding because that was one helluva waste of hard-earned cash, wasn’t it?

But some guys are willing to take a chance. Like my brother, who thinks he’s going to ride off into the sunset with the woman of his dreams in a haze of glitter on unicorns. And the wedding planner—the green-eyed beauty who makes a living convincing suckers to shell out thousands of dollars on centerpieces—is raking it in on this matrimonial monstrosity.

The thing is, Charlie Love is not unlike me. We’re both cogs in the wedding-industrial complex. As the best man, I know her game—and I can play it better than her. But after one scorching, unexpected kiss, I’m thinking I might just want to get played.

SAVAGE PRINCE by Meghan March – Release Date: March 27, 2018

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A new book in Meghan March’s Anti-Hero series? Bring. It. ON. I absolutely loved the trilogy that set this series off. Lachlan Mount absolutely wrecked me. With a slew of fascinating secondary characters that were introduced in the course of the Mount Trilogy, I simply can’t wait for this book that sets off the Savage Trilogy!

Who knew things could get even darker and dirtier in New Orleans? New York Timesbestselling author Meghan March introduces the Savage Prince of the city, the man you never want to meet.

I do what I want and who I want. I don’t follow anyone’s rules—even my own.
I knew I shouldn’t touch her, but it didn’t stop me.
Didn’t stop me the second time either. Only made me want a third.
My lifestyle suits the savage I am, and she doesn’t.
But Temperance Ransom is my newest addiction, and I’m nowhere near ready to quit her yet.
I’ll have her my way, even if it means dragging her into the darkness.
Hopefully it doesn’t kill us both.

Savage Prince is book one of the Savage Trilogy, set in the same world as Ruthless King, however you do not need to read the Mount Trilogy to devour this scandalously hot new story.

I FLIPPING LOVE YOU by Helena Hunting – Release Date: May 29, 2018

AMAZON | GOODREADS

Ummm…it’s a new Helena Hunting book, duh. Do I need more reasons than that?! I think not

SHE’S GOT CURB APPEAL. HE’S A FIXER UPPER…

From New York Times bestselling author Helena Hunting comes I Flipping Love You, a love story about flipping houses, taking risks, and landing that special someone who’s move-in ready.

Rian Sutter grew up with the finer things in life. Spending summers in the Hamptons was a normal occurrence for her until her parents lost everything years ago. Now Rian and her sister are getting their life, and finances, back on track through real estate. Not only do they buy and sell houses to the rich and famous but they finally have the capital to flip their very own beachfront property. But when she catches the attention of a sexy stranger who snaps up every house from under her, all bets are off…

Pierce Whitfield doesn’t normally demo kitchens, install dry wall, or tear apart a beautiful woman’s dreams. He’s just a down-on-his-luck lawyer who needed a break from the city and agreed to help his brother work on a few homes in the Hamptons. When he first meets Rian, the attraction is undeniable. But when they start competing for the same pieces of prime real estate, the early sparks turn into full-blown fireworks. Can these passionate rivals turn up the heat on their budding romance—without burning down the house?

HOT ASSET by Lauren Layne – Release Date: May 22, 2018

AMAZON | GOODREADS

A new series with a deliciously hot cover and a Wall Street hotshot from one of my favorite authors? HELL. YES.

A sexy agent hounds Wall Street’s hottest new wolf in an exhilarating novel from New York Times bestselling author Lauren Layne.

Ian Bradley is the definition of a Wall Street hotshot: seven-figure salary, designer suits, and a corner office. His drive off the floor is just as potent. Every woman who knows him has felt the rush. But now he’s met his match in Lara McKenzie—a woman with the power to bring Ian to his knees.

An ambitious, whip-smart daughter of FBI agents, Lara is a rising star in fighting white-collar crime. Her latest case—the investigation of Ian Bradley for insider trading—could make her career. She knows a scoundrel when she sees one. Ian fits the bill: a cocky, ridiculously handsome bad boy with a slick swagger.

She’ll do anything to prove he’s guilty. He’ll do anything to prove he’s not. But it’s only a matter of time before their fierce battle of wits gets oh so hot and personal. Now, taking down Ian has become more than business for Lara. It’s become a pleasure—and there’s more at risk than she ever dreamed.

HOOKED ON YOU by Kate Meader – Release Date: May 7, 2018

AMAZON | GOODREADS

Clearly I’m obsessed with all things Kate Meader since i have her on my list twice. But can you blame me? I simply can’t get enough of her hot hockey romance series and this latest installment features the sassiest of the three Chase sisters and a broody hockey player appropriately dubbed Hell’s Highlander. Yum. I say, yum!

The steamy Chicago Rebels series returns with this racy and sassy tale of embittered hearts, second chances, and going for the goal—on and off the ice.

Violet Vasquez never met her biological father, so learning he left his beloved hockey franchise—the Chicago Rebels—to her is, well, unexpected. Flat broke and close to homeless, Violet is determined to make the most of this sudden opportunity. Except dear old dad set conditions that require she takes part in actually running the team with the half-sisters she barely knows. Working with these two strangers and overseeing a band of hockey-playing lugs is not on her agenda…until she lays eyes on the Rebels captain and knows she has to have him.

Bren St. James has been labeled a lot of things: the Puck Prince, Lord of the Ice, Hell’s Highlander…but it’s the latest tag that’s making headlines: washed-up alcoholic has-been. This season, getting his life back on track and winning the Cup are his only goals. With no time for relationships—except the fractured ones he needs to rebuild with his beautiful daughters—he’s finding it increasingly hard to ignore sexy, all-up-in-his-beard Violet Vasquez. And when he finds himself in need of a nanny just as the playoffs are starting, he’s faced with a temptation he could so easily get hooked on.

For two lost souls, there’s more on the line than just making the best of a bad situation… there might also be a shot at the biggest prize of all: love.

DISTURBING HIS PEACE by Tessa Bailey – Release Date: April 24, 2018

AMAZON | GOODREADS

If you follow our blog, you already know how obsessed I am with this series. I absolutely adored the first book (Disorderly Conduct) in this series, and I absolutely devoured the second book (Indecent Exposure) and through it all, I’ve had one resounding theme; my obsession with Charlie’s grumpy older brother and the female recruit that lusts after him as much as she hates him. Recipe for deliciousness is what I call that!

She’s got probable cause to make her move . . .

Danika Silva can’t stand Lt. Greer Burns. Her roommate’s older brother may be sexy as hell, but he’s also a cold, unfeeling robot. She just wants to graduate and forget about her scowling superior. But when a dangerous mistake lands Danika on probation—under Greer’s watch—she’s forced to interact with the big, hulking jerk. Call him daily to check in? Done. Ride shotgun in his cruiser every night? Done. Try not to climb into his giant, muscular lap and kiss him? Umm…

Greer doesn’t let anything—or anyone—distract him from the job. Except lately, all he can think about is Danika. He’s wanted the beautiful, cocky recruit since the moment he saw her. But she’s reckless and unpredictable, and Greer is painfully aware of what can happen when an officer doesn’t follow the rules. Probation seemed like a good idea, but now Danika’s scent is in his car and he’s replayed her voicemails twenty times. Christ, he’s a goner.

Danika’s melting Greer’s stone-cold exterior one ride-along at a time. Being together could have serious consequences… but breaking a few rules never hurt anybody, right?

NOBODY DOES IT BETTER by Lexi Blake – Release Date: February 20, 2018

AMAZON | GOODREADS

I love and I mean LOVE this series. It combines espionage, with heart pounding action and suspense, and sizzling BDSM romance. While each book could be read as a standalone, I highly recommend reading in order to truly appreciate the connections and intricacies of the story arc. I can’t wait for this newest installment that features a sexy female spy and a hollywood heartthrob.

A spy who specializes in seduction

Kayla Summers was an elite CIA double agent, working inside China’s deadly MSS. Now, she works for McKay-Taggart London, but the Agency isn’t quite done with her. Spy master Ezra Fain needs her help on a mission that would send her into Hollywood’s glamorous and dangerous party scene. Intrigued by the mission and the movie star hunk she will be shadowing, she eagerly agrees. When she finds herself in his bed, she realizes she’s not only risking her life, but her heart.

A leading man who doesn’t do romance

Joshua Hunt is a legend of the silver screen. As Hollywood’s highest paid actor, he’s the man everyone wants to be, or be with, but something is missing. After being betrayed more than once, the only romance Josh believes in anymore is on the pages of his scripts. He keeps his relationships transactional, and that’s how he likes it, until he meets his new bodyguard. She was supposed to keep him safe, and satisfied when necessary, but now he’s realizing he may never be able to get enough of her.

An ending neither could have expected

Protecting Joshua started off as a mission, until it suddenly felt like her calling. When the true reason the CIA wanted her for this assignment is revealed, Kayla will have to choose between serving her country or saving the love of her life.

DEVASTATE by Pam Godwin – Release Date: February 6, 2018

AMAZON | GOODREADS

No one writes a spine tingling dark romance quite like Pam Godwin. I’ve been in love with her Deliver series from the very beginning, but somehow she managed to enthrall me more and more with each new release. I didn’t even look to see who this book featured before I added it, that’s how obsessed I am. And when I finally saw who the hero (or anti-hero) was? I was almost shaking in anticipation! Don’t do yourself a disservice by reading this as a standalone. I highly recommend reading the series in order to truly understand the characters since Tate gets introduced in the earlier books.

“What is the price you’re willing to pay?”
“Money isn’t an issue.”
“I’m not talking about money.”

Tate is on the hunt to find his best friend’s sister.

Eleven years ago, Lucia Dias was abducted. Presumed dead.

He never met her, so why does he care?

Some might call his efforts noble, but his motivation is more perverse, bordering on obsession.

When he follows a chilling lead to Venezuela’s Kidnap Alley, what he finds is neither a corpse nor a captive.

Amid poisonous lies and crippling depravity, the price of love is devastation.

And he pays.

With his body, his blood, and her life.

HURTS TO LOVE YOU by Alisha Rai – Release Date: March 27, 2018

AMAZON | GOODREADS

Ever since I read Wrong To Need You, I became an insta fan of Alisha Rai. Her writing is a delicious blend of angsty, poignant, and sensual. It’s addicting. I can’t wait for the third book in this series (which can easily be read as a standalone)

Being bad never felt so good, in the third novel in Alisha Rai’s sexy Forbidden Hearts series!

Well-behaved women don’t lust after men who love to misbehave.

Heiress Evangeline Chandler knows how to keep a secret . . . like her life-long crush on the tattooed hottie who just happens to be her big brother’s friend. She’s a Chandler, after all, and Chandlers don’t hook up with the help. Then again, they also don’t disobey their fathers and quit their respectable jobs, so good-girl rules may no longer apply.

Gabriel Hunter hides the pain of his past behind a smile, but he can’t hide his sudden attraction to his friend’s sheltered little sister. Eve is far too sweet to accept anything less than forever and there’s no chance of a future between the son of a housekeeper and the town’s resident princess.

When a wedding party forces Eve and Gabe into tight quarters, keeping their hands off each other will be as hard as keeping their clothes on. The need that draws them together is stronger than the forces that should shove them apart . . . but their sparks may not survive the explosion when long-buried secrets are finally unearthed.

DIRTY CHARMER by Emma Chase – Release Date: April 30, 2018

GOODREADS

A new spin-off series from the uber talented Emma Chase’s Royally series? HELLO! Need I say more?

Abigail Haddock is stunning, sensible, and some would say…stuffy. But it’s not really her fault. She was raised in one of Wessco’s oldest, most affluent, aristocratic families—“stuffy” is their middle name. So is successful. Abby’s working overtime to distinguish herself as a top-notch physician, just as her family legacy demands.

She doesn’t have time for nonsense.

Tommy Sullivan’s all about nonsense.

Sure, he’s an elite bodyguard with lethal skills and co-owner of the renowned, S&S Securities Firm—protector of the wealthy and titled. But he’s also rowdy, fun and thoroughly irresistible.

Tommy knows how to have a good time, and he’s never seen someone more in need of a good time than Abby. Kissing wouldn’t hurt either. The lass needs long, wet, filthy kisses—STAT—and he’s just the man for the job.

It doesn’t take long for a wildly sexy, sinfully satisfying, no-strings attached arrangement to turn into something more. Something sweet and addictive and real. But Tommy and Abby are too royally stubborn to admit it.

Opposites attract, everyone knows that. But can they last—can they love…for forever?

GERI’S MOST ANTICIPATED 2018 RELEASES

MAGIC TRIUMPHS by Ilona Andrews – Release Date: May 8, 2018

AMAZON | GOODREADS

I don’t even know where to start describing my excitement of finally getting my hands on the 10^th and final (*cries) Kate Daniels book. I’ll probably die with happiness once I get my hands on this book at the same time cry because it’s going to be the last book in the series.

Mercenary Kate Daniels must risk all to protect everything she holds dear in this epic, can’t-miss entry in the thrilling #1 New York Times bestselling urban fantasy series.

Kate has come a long way from her origins as a loner taking care of paranormal problems in post-Shift Atlanta. She’s made friends and enemies. She’s found love and started a family with Curran Lennart, the former Beast Lord. But her magic is too strong for the power players of the world to let her be.

Kate and her father, Roland, currently have an uneasy truce, but when he starts testing her defenses again, she knows that sooner or later, a confrontation is inevitable. The Witch Oracle has begun seeing visions of blood, fire, and human bones. And when a mysterious box is delivered to Kate’s doorstep, a threat of war from the ancient enemy who nearly destroyed her family, she knows their time is up.

Kate Daniels sees no other choice but to combine forces with the unlikeliest of allies. She knows betrayal is inevitable. She knows she may not survive the coming battle. But she has to try.

For her child.

For Atlanta.

For the world.

Down By Contact by Santino Hassell – Release Date: January 16, 2018

GOODREADS | AMAZON

Let’s see: two hot football players, lots of animosity and sexual tension. Sounds like my kind of book!

Two rival football players begin a game with higher stakes than the Super Bowl in this steamy romance from the author of Illegal Contact.

Simeon Boudreaux, the New York Barons’ golden-armed quarterback, is blessed with irresistible New Orleans charm and a face to melt your mama’s heart. He’s universally adored by fans and the media. Coming out as gay in solidarity with his teammate hasn’t harmed his reputation in the least—except for some social media taunting from rival linebacker Adrián Bravo.

Though they were once teammates, Adrián views Simeon as a traitor and the number-one name on the New Jersey Predators’ shit list. When animosity between the two NFL players reaches a boiling point on the field, culminating in a dirty fist fight, they’re both benched for six games and sentenced to joint community service teaching sullen, Brooklyn teens how to play ball.

At first, they can barely stand to be in the same room, but running the camp forces them to shape up. With no choice but to work together, Simeon realizes Adrián is more than his alpha-jerk persona, and Adrián begins to question why he’s always had such strong feelings for the gorgeous QB…

Hello Stranger by Lisa Kleypas – Release Date: February 27, 2018

AMAZON | GOODREADS

Devil in Spring was one of my favorite books in 2017, and in that book Lisa Kleypas did an expert job of setting up Dr. Garrett whose character was inspired by a real life female doctor in the Victorian era. Plus, it’s Lisa Kleypas. You really can’t go wrong with a Kleypas.

A woman who defies her time

Dr. Garrett Gibson, the only female physician in England, is as daring and independent as any man—why not take her pleasures like one? Yet she has never been tempted to embark on an affair, until now. Ethan Ransom, a former detective for Scotland Yard, is as gallant as he is secretive, a rumored assassin whose true loyalties are a mystery. For one exhilarating night, they give in to their potent attraction before becoming strangers again.

A man who breaks every rule

As a Ravenel by-blow spurned by his father, Ethan has little interest in polite society, yet he is captivated by the bold and beautiful Garrett. Despite their vow to resist each other after that sublime night, she is soon drawn into his most dangerous assignment yet. When the mission goes wrong, it will take all of Garrett’s skill and courage to save him. As they face the menace of a treacherous government plot, Ethan is willing to take any risk for the love of the most extraordinary woman he’s ever known.

The Governess Game by Tessa Dare – Release Date: August 28, 2018

AMAZON | GOODREADS

We all loved the first book in Tessa Dare’s Girl Meets Duke series, The Duchess Deal. The second book had us swooning already. It features—according to Ms. Dare, “a bad, bad rake and the governess who’s going to teach him a lesson.”

He’s been a bad, bad rake—and it takes a governess to teach him a lesson

The accidental governess

After her livelihood slips through her fingers, Alexandra Mountbatten takes on an impossible post: transforming a pair of wild orphans into proper young ladies. However, the girls don’t need discipline. They need a loving home. Try telling that to their guardian, Chase Reynaud: duke’s heir in the streets and devil in the sheets. The ladies of London have tried—and failed—to make him settle down. Somehow, Alexandra must reach his heart . . . without risking her own.

The infamous rake

Like any self-respecting libertine, Chase lives by one rule: no attachments. When a stubborn little governess tries to reform him, he decides to give her an education—in pleasure. That should prove he can’t be tamed. But Alexandra is more than he bargained for: clever, perceptive, passionate. She refuses to see him as a lost cause. Soon the walls around Chase’s heart are crumbling . . . and he’s in danger of falling, hard.

The Wedding Date by Jasmine Guillory – Release Date: January 30, 2018

AMAZON | GOODREADS

The explanation why this book is on this list is quite simple: I love LOVE me some “fake relationship” trope. Can’t resist them. So Ms. Guillory, bring it on!

A groomsman and his last-minute guest are about to discover if a fake date can go the distance in this fun and flirty debut novel.

Agreeing to go to a wedding with a guy she gets stuck with in an elevator is something Alexa Monroe wouldn’t normally do. But there’s something about Drew Nichols that’s too hard to resist.

On the eve of his ex’s wedding festivities, Drew is minus a plus one. Until a power outage strands him with the perfect candidate for a fake girlfriend…

After Alexa and Drew have more fun than they ever thought possible, Drew has to fly back to Los Angeles and his job as a pediatric surgeon, and Alexa heads home to Berkeley, where she’s the mayor’s chief of staff. Too bad they can’t stop thinking about the other…

They’re just two high-powered professionals on a collision course toward the long distance dating disaster of the century–or closing the gap between what they think they need and what they truly want…

Hurts to Love You by Alisha Rai – Release Date: March 27, 2018

AMAZON | GOODREADS

I’ve been salivating over this book—and this series in general—just based on their yummy covers and hooktastic blurbs. That and I’ve been told by many friends on Twitter including Lana that I would definitely enjoy this one. And I listen to my friends. Simple as that.

Being bad never felt so good, in the third novel in Alisha Rai’s sexy Forbidden Hearts series!

Well-behaved women don’t lust after men who love to misbehave.

Heiress Evangeline Chandler knows how to keep a secret . . . like her life-long crush on the tattooed hottie who just happens to be her big brother’s friend. She’s a Chandler, after all, and Chandlers don’t hook up with the help. Then again, they also don’t disobey their fathers and quit their respectable jobs, so good-girl rules may no longer apply.

Gabriel Hunter hides the pain of his past behind a smile, but he can’t hide his sudden attraction to his friend’s sheltered little sister. Eve is far too sweet to accept anything less than forever and there’s no chance of a future between the son of a housekeeper and the town’s resident princess.

When a wedding party forces Eve and Gabe into tight quarters, keeping their hands off each other will be as hard as keeping their clothes on. The need that draws them together is stronger than the forces that should shove them apart . . . but their sparks may not survive the explosion when long-buried secrets are finally unearthed.

A Princess in Theory by Alyssa Cole – Release Date: February 27, 2018

AMAZON | GOODREADS

I will once again blame romance Twitter for this, Someone on there posted the cover and the blurb and I like countless others fell in love. I mean, a book about a handsome Prince is looking for his missing princess? Sign me up!

From acclaimed author Alyssa Cole comes the tale of a city Cinderella and her Prince Charming in disguise . . .

Between grad school and multiple jobs, Naledi Smith doesn’t have time for fairy tales…or patience for the constant e-mails claiming she’s betrothed to an African prince. Sure. Right. Delete! As a former foster kid, she’s learned that the only things she can depend on are herself and the scientific method, and a silly e-mail won’t convince her otherwise.

Prince Thabiso is the sole heir to the throne of Thesolo, shouldering the hopes of his parents and his people. At the top of their list? His marriage. Ever dutiful, he tracks down his missing betrothed. When Naledi mistakes the prince for a pauper, Thabiso can’t resist the chance to experience life—and love—without the burden of his crown.

The chemistry between them is instant and irresistible, and flirty friendship quickly evolves into passionate nights. But when the truth is revealed, can a princess in theory become a princess ever after?

The Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoag – Release Date: June 5, 2018

AMAZON | GOODREADS

This book is a great example of what great synopsis can do. I read the synopsis and I was immediately hooked! It also helps that it features two unlikely pairings: a math geek heroine and a male escort hero. *fingers crossed

A heartwarming and refreshing debut novel that proves one thing: there’s not enough data in the world to predict what will make your heart tick.

Stella Lane thinks math is the only thing that unites the universe. She comes up with algorithms to predict customer purchases–a job that has given her more money than she knows what to do with, and way less experience in the dating department than the average thirty-year-old.

It doesn’t help that Stella has Asperger’s and French kissing reminds her of a shark getting its teeth cleaned by pilot fish. Her conclusion: she needs lots of practice–with a professional. Which is why she hires escort Michael Phan. The Vietnamese and Swedish stunner can’t afford to turn down Stella’s offer, and agrees to help her check off all the boxes on her lesson plan–from foreplay to more-than-missionary position…

Before long, Stella not only learns to appreciate his kisses, but crave all of the other things he’s making her feel. Their no-nonsense partnership starts making a strange kind of sense. And the pattern that emerges will convince Stella that love is the best kind of logic…

Dirty Charmer by Emma Chase – Release Date: April 30, 2018

GOODREADS

When I heard that Emma Chase is writing a spin off series based off of her Royally series, I immediately—without even knowing who and what it is about, said yes to the book! Yes, Emma Chase, I will be one-clicking this baby as soon as pre-order link is up!

Abigail Haddock is stunning, sensible, and some would say…stuffy. But it’s not really her fault. She was raised in one of Wessco’s oldest, most affluent, aristocratic families—“stuffy” is their middle name. So is successful. Abby’s working overtime to distinguish herself as a top-notch physician, just as her family legacy demands.

She doesn’t have time for nonsense.

Tommy Sullivan’s all about nonsense.

Sure, he’s an elite bodyguard with lethal skills and co-owner of the renowned, S&S Securities Firm—protector of the wealthy and titled. But he’s also rowdy, fun and thoroughly irresistible.

Tommy knows how to have a good time, and he’s never seen someone more in need of a good time than Abby. Kissing wouldn’t hurt either. The lass needs long, wet, filthy kisses—STAT—and he’s just the man for the job.

It doesn’t take long for a wildly sexy, sinfully satisfying, no-strings attached arrangement to turn into something more. Something sweet and addictive and real. But Tommy and Abby are too royally stubborn to admit it.

Opposites attract, everyone knows that. But can they last—can they love…for forever?

Making Up by Lucy Parker – Release Date: May 28, 2018

GOODREADS

I am absolutely in love with everything Lucy Parker writes! Her London Celebrities series was one of the best series I’ve read last year! So it made me so happy to know that yes, she’s writing more books in the series. I don’t have a lot of info about the book yet but I trust this author will deliver another charming romance between two unexpected characters.

Undone by You by Kate Meader – Release Date: March 5, 2018

AMAZON | GOODREADS

Kate has become one of my go-to authors for sexy, steamy, sports romances with strong heroines and complicated alpha heroes. Undone by You will her first foray into M/M and just based on the snippet I got from the second book, this book is gonna be a scorcher!

USA TODAY bestselling author Kate Meader brings her signature “steamy sex scenes, colorful characters, and riveting dialogue” (RT Book Reviews) to this novella in the Chicago Rebels series, following the general manager of the Rebels as he scores with one of his players off the ice.

Dante Moretti has just landed his dream job: GM of the Chicago Rebels. And screw the haters who think there should be an asterisk next to his name because he’s the first out managing executive in pro hockey. He’s earned the right to be here and nothing will topple him off that perch—especially not an incredibly inconvenient attraction to his star defenseman, Cade “Alamo” Burnett. Cade has always been careful to keep his own desires on the down low, but his hot Italian boss proves to be a temptation he can’t resist. Sure, they both have so much to lose, but no one will ever know…

As Dante and Cade’s taboo affair heats up off the ice and their relationship gets more and more intense, they’ll have to decide: is love worth risking their careers? Or is this romance destined to be forever benched?

Ocean Light by Nalini Singh – Release Date: June 12, 2018

AMAZON | GOODREADS

Okay, first things first. I will always be excited when it comes to a Nalini Singh book. Second, we’re finally getting Bowen Knight’s story. Third, we’ll finally spend more time with the mysterious BlackSea changelings. *deep breaths until June*

New York Times bestselling author Nalini Singh dives beneath the surface of her Psy-Changeling world into a story of passionate devotion and selfless love…

Security specialist Bowen Knight has come back from the dead. But there’s a ticking time bomb in his head: a chip implanted to block telepathic interference that could fail at any moment—taking his brain along with it. With no time to waste, he should be back on land helping the Human Alliance. Instead, he’s at the bottom of the ocean, consumed with an enigmatic changeling…

Kaia Luna may have traded in science for being a chef, but she won’t hide the facts of Bo’s condition from him or herself. She’s suffered too much loss in her life to fall prey to the dangerous charm of a human who is a dead man walking. And she carries a devastating secret Bo could never imagine…

But when Kaia is taken by those who mean her deadly harm, all bets are off. Bo will do anything to get her back—even if it means striking a devil’s bargain and giving up his mind to the enemy…

Leave a Comment · Filed Under: Upcoming Releases · Tagged With: upcoming releases

Release Blitz, Excerpt & Giveaway: Whore by Willow Aster

December 26, 2017 by Lana · Leave a Comment

WHORE
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Author: Willow Aster
Release Date: December 26, 2017

“I need a reason to exist.”

Beautiful, intelligent, independent, strong-willed, wealthy—Lilith Fontenot seems by all appearances, to have it all. But that’s not how the highest paid prostitute in New Orleans sees herself.

A stain on society.

A scourge.

A waste.

Outsider.

Prisoner…

Any idyllic dream of the normal life she may have once imagined, Lilith buried long ago. Her only plan now is survival.

But mob boss Nico Santelli and community center owner Soti Christos have not given up on Lilith.

Each has his own very specific, very opposing, plans for her, and neither will rest until it becomes a reality.

WHORE is a singularly bracing take on an ancient tale of tireless love, betrayal, and the possibility of redemption.

AMAZON | B&N | iBOOKS | KOBO

I take a sudden deep breath and my breasts brush against his chest. The contact surprises us both. I do it again, intentionally this time, trying to gain control in the only way I know how. His neck flushes and he takes a step back. I enjoy the rush it gives me, knowing that I affect him too.

“Hey, would you like to come around the corner with me to—”

I swallow my surprise and shake my head, holding my hand up before he says anything else.

“Please,” he says louder.

“What’s your name?”

“I am Sotirios … Soti.”

“Soti, what makes you think you know anything about me?”

He tries to make eye contact, but I focus on a spot just past his left ear.

“I just want to help you…” His words trail off.

The wind blows my hair forward, a sheet of black coming between us until I smooth the long strands down on either side. I gaze down the street and see a blurry little girl with black hair down to her waist in middle school, standing shy and hopeful in front of a group of girls.

“We know what you are,” they said. They hurled spit and names on her and she stood there, taking it, until the teacher came and helped her.

Help only got me so far.

“You listen to me, okay?” I say so softly he leans in to hear me. “I was born for this.”

When my eyes finally land on his again, I know his face will haunt me forever. He looks as bleak as I feel.

I clear my throat. “Now, if you’ll excuse us.”

With that, I loop my hand through the arm of my next income source, calculating how I can get the most money out of him for the least amount of time. It takes every ounce of willpower I own to not look Soti’s way one more time. Once we round the corner and I know he’s out of sight, all the adrenaline leaves my body, and I’m actually glad to have someone to hold onto.

I avoid my reflection as we walk back to the house. I don’t want to know what the rest of the world sees when they look at me.

Whore by Willow Aster from Bibliophile Productions on Vimeo.

Willow Aster is the author of True Love Story, In the Fields, Maybe Maby, Fade to Red, and the upcoming release, Whore. Willow loves nothing more than writing the day away—anywhere will do. Her husband and two children graciously put up with her endless daydreaming and make fun of her for reading while cooking.

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New Release Review: Beautiful Lawman by Sophie Jordan

December 26, 2017 by Lana · 1 Comment

BEAUTIFUL LAWMAN
Series: Devil’s Rock #4
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Author: Sophie Jordan
Release Date: December 26, 2017

From the wrong side of the tracks and with most of her family in jail or dead, Piper Walsh is used to everyone in town thinking the worst about her. It doesn’t seem to matter that she’s worked hard to build a good life for herself. So she isn’t surprised that when she comes into contact with Sweet Hill’s wildly irresistible, arrogant sheriff, Hale Walters, they’re instant adversaries. Piper has nothing in common with the town golden-boy-turned-lawman—and she refuses to be a notch on his bedpost.

Despite rumors, Hale avoids fooling around with the women of Sweet Hill, many of whom are hoping to get him to the altar.

But staying out of Piper’s path is proving near impossible.

The infuriating troublemaker clearly has no respect for his badge.

As she continues to push his buttons, it becomes clear to Hale that he must either arrest Piper—or claim her as his own.

AMAZON | iBOOKS

He wasn’t for her. She didn’t get nice things. Men like him went for the good girls of the world who went to college and took yoga classes and were raised by loving parents. Not girls who woke in the middle of the night from nightmares because the past could never release its grip.

Why has it taken me this long to read this series? Why? I read Jordan’s historical The Scandal of It All and became an instant fan. I’ve been eyeing this series for months, and I honestly don’t know why it took me this long to finally get to it. After finishing this book, I immediately went to amazon to one-click the rest of this series. I’m in love with this story and these characters. Simply in love!

Girl from the wrong side of the tracks falls for the sexy sheriff of the town that has never really accepted seems delicious enough. Add to that story a dash of enemies to lovers trope, plenty of angst and sizzling steam and if that doesn’t get you salivating, I don’t know what will!

She snuck a glance over her shoulder and the look on his face made her stomach dip to her toes. Blazing hot desire. The hands on his thighs were white-knuckled and clenched tight.

Piper Walsh was a heroine I clicked with right away. Here’s a woman that’s lived anything but an easy life. Her family is the social pariah of the small town she’s grown up in. Her parents were addicts that are now dead, her brother is in jail, and she’s left on her own to raise her younger sister. Scrambling to make ends meet, unable to get an acceptable job anywhere else in a town that hates her, she’s forced to sling drinks at a strip club. Unfortunately her job does nothing to add to her already tarnished rep, especially for one particularly antagonistic sheriff that seems to think the worst of her along with the rest of the town.

But looks can be deceiving…

Hale Walters has always been on the right side of the law. The last thing he needs is to give into the sizzling chemistry that seems to blaze between him and Piper. But that chemistry soon proves to be too much temptation to resist, especially when he begins to see the woman beneath the reputation of her family’s last name.

Beautiful Lawman was a delicious slow burn that I enjoyed from beginning to end. I loved the angsty hate/lust thing that Piper and Hale had going between the two of them in the beginning. Though it certainly wasn’t as satisfying as seeing them unwittingly fall deeper and harder for each other. Talk about your opposites attracting. It just worked so well with these two characters. I couldn’t get enough of them.

My heart broke for Piper and everything that she’s gone through. I just wanted her to finally catch a break. I loved that she never lost her spark or sass. This is a woman that gives as hard as she gets and doesn’t let anything get her down. She has a spine of steel to her and I simply loved that about her.

Hale was just delicious. He was this mix of protective yet slightly reserved. He wants Piper but he also wants to shelter his heart. The man was all alpha though and when he finally decides to pursue Piper? Holy fireworks, batman!

There’s an added element of mystery about Piper’s past and why her brother is in jail that I absolutely devoured. Beautiful Lawman was a sizzling, entertaining, and unputdownable read from beginning to finish.

THE SERIES

: All Chained Up (Devil’s Rock, #1)

: Hell Breaks Loose (Devil’s Rock, #2)

: Fury on Fire (Devil’s Rock, #3)

: Beautiful Lawman (Devil’s Rock, #4)

ALL CHAINED UP | HELL BREAKS LOOSE | FURY ON FIRE | BEAUTIFUL LAWMAN

1 Comment · Filed Under: All Reviews, Contemporary Romance · Tagged With: Book Reviews: 4.5 stars, Sophie Jordan

Spotlight & Exclusive Excerpt: Relay by @LaylaReyne

December 25, 2017 by Lana · Leave a Comment

RELAY
Series: Changing Lanes #1
Genre: M/M Contemporary Sports Romance
Author: Layla Reyne
Publisher: Riptide Publishing
Release Date (Print & Ebook): January 8th, 2018
Length (Print & Ebook): ~ 63,000 words

Captain is not a title Alejandro “Alex” Cantu takes lightly. Elected by his teammates to helm the US Men’s Swim Team, he proudly accepts the role, despite juggling endless training, team administrative work, and helping out on the family farm. And despite his ex-lover, Dane Ellis—swimming’s biggest star—also making the Olympic Team.

Dane has been a pawn in his celebrity parents’ empire from crib to pool, flashing his camera-ready smile on demand and staying deeply in the closet. Only once did he drop the act—the summer he fell in love with Alex. Ten years later, Dane longs to cut his parents’ strings, drop his too-bright smile, and beg Alex for another chance.

Alex, though, isn’t ready to forgive and forget, and Dane is a distraction he doesn’t need on his team, until an injury forces Alex to accept Dane as his medley relay anchor. Working together, their passion reignites. When Dane’s parents threaten reprisal and Alex is accused of doping, the two must risk everything to prove Alex’s innocence, to love one another, and to win back their spots on the team, together.

RIPTIDE PUBLISHING

Dane climbed out of the car, squinting against the bright midday sun. Dressed in jeans and a wrinkled tee, hair a red rat’s nest, auburn scruff matted along one side of his jaw, and the rest of his face somewhere between flaming red and sickly green, Dane looked a sleep-deprived mess, worse even than Alex.

Alex stepped back, not forward.

And met his mom’s hand, pressed lightly against his spine. “I think you know what he wants now.” Alex could hear the smile in her knowing voice.

“Isn’t that Big Red?” Carla asked, drawn from the back porch by the commotion.

Alex nodded, still speechless.

His mom gave him a firmer push, and he stumbled down the first porch step. No going back now. Putting one foot in front of the other, he descended the steps and came to a stop in front of Dane.

“What are you doing here?” he asked, voicing the only question that mattered in this present world gone mad.

Clear blue eyes stared back at him, full of the same affection he’d seen there Saturday night, had seen for the first time ten years ago across a pool. Together with Dane’s shy, self-deprecating smile, the real one, it was a beautiful and dangerous combination.

And beautiful, dangerous words followed. “I came here for you.”

Author Layla Reyne was raised in North Carolina and now calls San Francisco home. She enjoys weaving her bi-coastal experiences into her stories, along with adrenaline-fueled suspense and heart pounding romance. When she’s not writing stories to excite her readers, she downloads too many books, watches too much television, and cooks too much food with her scientist husband, much to the delight of their smushed-face, leftover-loving dogs.

Author Tagline: Adrenaline-Fueled Romance

Leave a Comment · Filed Under: Excerpts · Tagged With: Boys Meets Boy, Layla Reyne, spotlight

New & Upcoming Releases: December 26

December 25, 2017 by Lana · Leave a Comment

Merry Christmas to all of our dirty birds! In case Santa didn’t bring you all the gifts you wanted this holiday, here are some new releases that you have to look forward to one-clicking to warm yourself up 🙂

RELEASING DECEMBER 26

BEAUTIFUL LAWMAN by Sophie Jordan

From the wrong side of the tracks and with most of her family in jail or dead, Piper Walsh is used to everyone in town thinking the worst about her. It doesn’t seem to matter that she’s worked hard to build a good life for herself. So she isn’t surprised that when she comes into contact with Sweet Hill’s wildly irresistible, arrogant sheriff, Hale Walters, they’re instant adversaries. Piper has nothing in common with the town golden-boy-turned-lawman—and she refuses to be a notch on his bedpost.

Despite rumors, Hale avoids fooling around with the women of Sweet Hill, many of whom are hoping to get him to the altar. But staying out of Piper’s path is proving near impossible.

The infuriating troublemaker clearly has no respect for his badge.

As she continues to push his buttons, it becomes clear to Hale that he must either arrest Piper—or claim her as his own.

SHELTER by Jay Crownorver

His life is chaos and confusion. It’s a storm of uncertainty and raging emotion.

Sutton Warner is a mess. Everything in his life feels like it’s unraveling.

He’s let a lot of people down lately, including his daughter. Sutton always promised his little girl he would never disappoint her and that he would always be there when she needed him. Until he wasn’t.
The truth is, he’s used to disappointing the women in his life. First was his mother who couldn’t find a reason to stick around when he was growing up. Then there’s his ex. The woman who takes unbridled delight in making his life incredibly complicated. Luckily, his daughter is still young enough to believe her old man is some kind of hero. But, he knows the day is coming when she realizes the truth, which is, he’s just a man with some serious flaws and a list of ever-growing weaknesses.
Finally, there’s the woman he’s desperately trying to forget with every shot tossed back and each pill popped.

He more than disappointed Emrys…he almost got her killed.

Her love is steady and sure. It’s a shelter shaped by conviction and silent assurance.

Emrys Santos is lost. Everything in her life feels pointless and futile.
She’s been busy running away from her feelings and all the people who love her the most—including her best friend, the one person who knows exactly what she’s been through. They promised to always stick together and to lean on one another. It was a promise Em had to break so she could lick her wounds and figure out her next move. For once, there is no easy way out of the tangled web of emotions she’s caught up in, and right now, she recognizes that all roads lead back to Wyoming…and back to Sutton.

The man she nearly got killed.

Shelter is a standalone novel, the second book in the Getaway series, which features the hardheaded and brokenhearted Warner brothers and the women who dare to love them. These boys are very good at putting the wild in wilderness.

THE DUKE OF HER DESIRE by Sophie Barnes

He was only supposed to keep an eye on his friend’s sister… now he’s about to lose his heart…

When Thomas Heathmore, Duke of Coventry, agrees to steer his friend’s inexperienced younger sister through society, he doesn’t expect the lady in question to be so infernally stubborn. Amelia Matthews seems to have little interest in balls or suitors at all. Instead, she intends to open a school, and against his better instincts, Thomas offers to help. Yet somewhere along the line, Amelia ceases to be a simple responsibility . . . and becomes an undeniable temptation.

Since her brother inherited a dukedom, Amelia’s prospects have transformed. But though she’s long been secretly infatuated with Thomas, she refuses to heed the arrogant aristocrat’s advice. If only it were as easy to ignore his heated touch. And as Amelia soon learns, the ton is a minefield, where one moment’s indiscretion can unleash a scandal—or entice her to surrender everything to the duke of her desire . . .

THE ART OF RUNNING OF HEELS by Rachel Gibson

Running in five-inch stilettos is an art form

Leaving your fiancé at the altar on live television is a disaster. Lexie Kowalsky thought she was ready to get married in front of millions of people, but at the last minute she fled the set of television’s hottest reality show, Gettin’ Hitched. Wearing a poofy white dress and a pair of five-inch sparkly shoes, Lexie hopped a float plane for Sandspit, Canada. She figured no one would find her there. But she was wrong.

Sharing her flight was the Seattle Chinooks biggest star, Sean Knox. Lexie wasn’t just a reality-show runaway, she was his pain in the butt coach’s daughter. She was chaos and temptation and definitely off limits, but getting her luscious body out of that wedding gown, he couldn’t resist getting her in his bed for one amazing night.

Then a photo of Sean and Lexi breaks the internet—and suddenly they’re both swept up in a crazy plan to spin the whole story. But you can’t run from love—

INTO THE NIGHT by Cynthia Eden

Two FBI agents are caught in a merciless vigilante’s crosshairs in New York Timesbestselling author Cynthia Eden’s electric Killer Instinct series

Sheltered in the shadows of the Smoky Mountains is the suspect who’s summoned FBI agent Macey Night’s fears to the surface. Every day that the “Profiler,” a vigilante serial killer, escapes justice is another day she’s reminded of what it is to be a ruthless predator’s prey. Capturing him is a craving deeper than anything she’s felt in a long time. But Agent Bowen Murphy, equal parts sexy and volatile, seems hell-bent on changing that. Working together—needing, living and breathing each other—they’re entwined to distraction.

Bowen’s used to operating on impulse: act, don’t feel. Now Macey and the controlled terror behind her beautiful eyes have him rethinking everything, including his rule to never get close to a colleague. He’s willing to fight for a future with Macey, but the consequences of love could be deadly.

THE PRETENDER by HelenKay Dimon

They say it takes a thief to catch a thief, and Harrison Tate is proof. Once a professional burglar, he now makes a lawful living tracking down stolen art. No one needs to know about his secret sideline, “liberating” artifacts acquired through underhanded methods. At least until one of those jobs sees him walking in on a murder.

Gabrielle Wright has long been estranged from her wealthy family, but she didn’t kill her sister. Trouble is, the only person who can prove it is the sexy, elusive criminal who shouldn’t have been at the island estate on that terrible night. She’s not expecting honor among thieves—or for their mutual attraction to spark into an intense inferno of desire.

Under the guise of evaluating her family’s art, Harris comes back to the estate hoping to clear Gabby’s name.

But returning to the scene of the crime has never been riskier, with their hearts and lives on the line.

WHORE by Willow Aster

Beautiful, intelligent, independent, strong-willed, wealthy…

Lilith Fontenot seems, by all appearances, to have it all. But that’s not how the highest paid prostitute in New Orleans sees herself.

A stain on society. A scourge. A waste. Outsider. Prisoner…

Any idyllic dream of the normal life she may have once imagined, Lilith buried long ago. Her only plan now is survival.

But mob boss Nico Santelli and community center owner Soti Christos have not given up on Lilith.

Each has his own very specific, very opposing, plans for her, and neither will rest until it becomes a reality.

WHORE is a singularly bracing take on an ancient tale of tireless love, betrayal, and the possibility of redemption.

NOW THAT YOU MENTION IT by Kristan Higgins

New York Times bestselling author Kristan Higgins welcomes you home in this witty, emotionally charged novel about the complications of life, love and family

One step forward. Two steps back. The Tufts scholarship that put Nora Stuart on the path to becoming a Boston medical specialist was a step forward. Being hit by a car and then overhearing her boyfriend hit on another doctor when she thought she was dying? Two major steps back.

Injured in more ways than one, Nora feels her carefully built life cracking at the edges. There’s only one place to land: home. But the tiny Maine community she left fifteen years ago doesn’t necessarily want her. At every turn, someone holds the prodigal daughter of Scupper Island responsible for small-town drama and big-time disappointments.

With a tough islander mother who’s always been distant, a wild-child sister in jail and a withdrawn teenage niece as eager to ditch the island as Nora once was, Nora has her work cut out for her if she’s going to take what might be her last chance to mend the family. Balancing loss and opportunity, dark events from her past with hope for the future, Nora will discover that tackling old pain makes room for promise…and the chance to begin again.

CAN’T LET GO by Barbara Freethy

Talented graphic artist and animator Annie Callaway has been commissioned by a Hollywood studio to create the next superhero blockbuster movie, but a bout of creative block has Annie searching the Southern California beach scene for inspiration. A local Irish bar in an old train depot, run by the ruggedly attractive and somewhat mysterious Griffin Hale, piques her interest, and she finds herself weaving fantasies about not only Griffin but also the quirky characters who work there.

The last thing Griffin Hale needs at his bar is a nosy artist looking for personal stories to turn into movie plots. He has carefully cultivated a scene of complete normalcy for people who need it more than Annie could possibly imagine, and it’s his job to protect them. But the beautiful redhead with the compelling green eyes is difficult to turn away. Annie’s fantasy world where good always conquers evil is not the life that Griffin has lived, and he can’t help but think she’ll never be satisfied with anyone less than a superhero.

After a string of bad relationships, Annie willingly admits that most real men don’t live up to her muscle-bound, cape-wearing protectors of the world, but when her stubborn curiosity propels her into a danger she never expected, she begins to realize that some heroes work in the dark…and a man who fights for you is a man worth fighting for.

While Griffin is determined to keep Annie alive, he’s not at all convinced he can give her the happily-ever-after she’s looking for. But then some stories take an unexpected turn…

** CAN’T LET GO is part of the Callaway series but can also be read as a standalone!

Leave a Comment · Filed Under: Upcoming Releases · Tagged With: New Release, upcoming releases

Review: Sinful Empire by Meghan March

December 22, 2017 by Lana · Leave a Comment

SINFUL EMPIRE
Series: Mount Trilogy #3
Genre: Erotic, Contemporary Romance
Author: Meghan March
Release Date: December 19, 2017

The Mount Trilogy concludes with Sinful Empire!

What’s mine, I keep, and that includes Keira Kilgore.

It’s no longer enough to have her in my debt. No longer enough to own her body.

I want something more.

She can try to resist, but I’ll never give her up.

Nothing will keep us apart.

Not her.

Not my enemies.

No one.

Her debt will only be paid one way—with her heart.

Sinful Empire is the third and final book in the Mount Trilogy.

AMAZON | iBOOKS | B&N | KOBO

She’s mine. She’s staying mine. Even my black heart couldn’t handle losing her. I will keep her safe with my very last breath, if necessary.

Sinful Empire was a high-octane page turner! A non-stop, action-packed and sexy ride that kept me riveted to the pages from beginning to end. It ended in much the same way it began, with a bang! And this girl? Absolutely devoured every single morsel!

Lachlan Mount is a man unlike any other I’ve ever met, and although he’s not the first that I’ve called mine, I hope he’ll be the last.

Considering how addicted I’ve been to this trilogy, I was equally dreading and excited to read the conclusion. I couldn’t wait to see how all the twists and turns would come to a full circle. And let me just tell you, the twists and turns kept coming until the very end. Just when you think you have things figured out, Meghan March throws a twist into the mix that you never saw coming. And she definitely saved the best for last. Because that ending? MIND. BLOWING.

For two books you watched Mount and Keira fall for each other and fighting falling for each other. The attraction between them was as undeniable as their chemistry. With each new detail that we learn about Mount and his past, you fall harder for him, right along with Keira. Each tiny morsel that we’re given about the mysterious man just helped build the picture of the road he’s traveled to make him into who he is today.

Sinful Empire was an incredibly satisfying conclusion to what’s now one of my favorite trilogies. There’s a nice set up for stories for some of the secondary characters, and I for one am already salivating for those. I can’t wait for more in this addicting series!

DON’T MISS THE REST OF THE MOUNT TRILOGY

RUTHLESS KING

Mount Trilogy Book 1

Get ready for the darker and dirtier side of New Orleans with a brand new alpha romance from USA Today bestselling author Meghan March.

New Orleans belongs to me.
You don’t know my name, but I control everything you see—and all the things you don’t.
My reach knows no bounds, and my demands are always met.
I didn’t need to loan money to a failing family distillery, but it amuses me to have them in my debt.
To have her in my debt.
She doesn’t know she caught my attention.
She should’ve been more careful.
I’m going to own her. Consume her. Maybe even keep her.
It’s time to collect what I’m owed.
Keira Kilgore, you’re now the property of Lachlan Mount.

*Ruthless King is book one of the Mount Trilogy*

Goodreads | AMAZON | B&N | KOBO | iBOOKS

DEFIANT QUEEN

Mount Trilogy Book 1

I’m his entertainment.

His toy.

Payment on a debt.

I tell myself I hate him, but every time he walks into the room, my body betrays me. How can I want him and fear him in the same moment?

They told me he’d mess with my head. Make it go to war with my body.

But I didn’t realize it would be complete anarchy.

I should’ve known better. When Mount’s involved, there are no rules.

I will not surrender. I will not show weakness. I’ll stand my ground and make it out of this bargain with my heart and soul intact.

But he has other plans . . .

GOODREADS | AMAZON | iBOOKS | B&N | KOBO

Meghan March has been known to wear camo face paint and tromp around in woods wearing mud-covered boots, all while sporting a perfect manicure. She’s also impulsive, easily entertained, and absolutely unapologetic about the fact that she loves to read and write smut. Her past lives include slinging auto parts, selling lingerie, making custom jewelry, and practicing corporate law. Writing books about dirty talking alpha males and the strong, sassy women who bring them to their knees is by far the most fabulous job she’s ever had. She loves hearing from her readers at meghanmarchbooks@gmail.com.

Leave a Comment · Filed Under: All Reviews, Contemporary Romance, Dirty Talkers, Erotic Rom · Tagged With: Book Reviews: 4.5 stars, Meghan March

DGR’S 2017 FAVORITES: JENN’S PICKS

December 20, 2017 by Lana · Leave a Comment

Another year gone in the blink of an eye and the turn of many book pages. And did we have a lot of book pages between us. We had one hell of a 5 star year between the three of us and we can’t wait to share our favorites with you all. Oh wait…we’re not waiting. Well, can’t say suspense was ever a forte of ours.

It’s awesome to see that even with our varying tastes in books, there are some shared faves (*cough* The Duchess Deal *cough*)

But without further ado, I present to you Jenn’s favorite picks for 2017!! *in no certain order*

JENN’S FAVORITES OF 2017

NOWHERE BUT HERE by Katie McGarry

If anyone could write a Young Adult MC Romance, it’s Katie Mc-fucking-Garry. She is the perfect author for this, and I am so glad that she chose to do it. Because it is flawless.

With all of the violence and sex and just downright MC-ness, you would think that a YA MC Romance just wouldn’t be possible, but Katie gave us the middle finger and wrote this series that blew my mind.

She is the queen of YA in so many ways.

I mean, every YA comes with some angst, which isn’t always my favorite. But Katie includes just the right about the angst that it isn’t too soft…it isn’t too hard…it’s juuuuust right.

GOODREADS | AMAZON | MY REVIEW

WICKED INTENTIONS by J.T. Geissinger

I read Wicked Sexy last year and was blown away.

After reading Wicked Intentions, my brain and heart and body are bursting!!

These books are the whole package (pun intended).

What I love about this book? EVERYTHING. It seriously has everything you ever want in a perfect book. The feels. The humor. The sex. The dirty talk. The amazing story. The words. The dark. The light. All wrapped up in one perfectly packaged book.

If I could give only ONE BOOK RECOMMENDATION this whole year, it would be THIS BOOK.

AMAZON | GOODREADS | MY REVIEW

THE QUEEN by Skye Warren

I couldn’t gush enough about Skye Warren.

If you know me at all, you know I am a HUGE fan.

This series is one of my favorites of hers, after the Stripped and Endgame series. Lol. Ok. I love all her books. Leave me alone!! Her writing is able to capture beauty in the darkness. And there is A LOT of darkness in her books. Just gimme all the darkness.

Gabriel or Damon. Damon or Gabriel. I can’t choose!!! They are equally assholely, but the reasons for their actions are soooo different that it’s so hard to compare them.

I can’t love one more or less than the other, so I will place them on the same level on my ultimate book boyfriend list.

GOODREADS | AMAZON | MY REVIEW

THE CASTLE by Skye Warren

GABRIEL.

Can I have him?

Seriously Skye, I want you to write a Gabriel story EVERY…..DAY and send me the story.

No one else.

Just me.

Especially not Lana. BECAUSE HE’S MINE!!

Gabriel has me like….Unf. THANK YOU, Skye Warren, for creating Gabriel Miller….for my pleasure! Just when I think Skye Warren can’t get any better, she goes and drops Gabriel into my lap (yes, please!).

GOODREADS | AMAZON | MY REVIEW

EMBER by Rachel Van Dyken

I love when an author makes me hate a character so much, then she turns around and makes me love that same character.

Very few authors can make me do anything, let alone change my mind. I never would have thought I could love Phoenix. I cannot resist a tortured hero. I knew he was tortured, and so I was naturally drawn to him, but I had no idea how the author was going to redeem him for what he did.

I didn’t think there was any way he could be forgiven. I didn’t know if I could forgive him, and I wasn’t even the person wronged. Lol.

I LOVE that Rachel Van Dyken continues to make me LAUGH and FEEL so much in this series. This mafia family has me wrapped around their crooked fingers.

GOODREADS | AMAZON

CROWN OF MIDNIGHT by Sarah J. Maas

You know those books that are so BEYOND that you can’t even give them stars?

THIS. SERIES.

Earth? What is Earth? I am living in Erilea.

What was I thinking waiting so long to read this series? I am utterly captivated. I would even believe that this series has cast a spell on me. Gasp! Maybe it has!!!

These characters. This world. The magic. The mystery. The secrets. The murder. The LOVE. The FEELS.

I am escaping into this series every day, and I couldn’t escape it if I tried. I am shackled to it. I can’t stop thinking about it. If you love Harry Potter, read this book. If you love Hunger Games, read this book. If you love The Lord of the Rings, read this book. If you love books, read this book.

GOODREADS | AMAZON | MY REVIEW

VICIOUS by LJ Shen

I could not put this book down.

It is brilliant. Genius.

This book blew my mind.

The writing. The character development is ON…POINT!

LJ Shen can write like a motherfucker! This is the most perfect asshole in all the books I’ve read. I have never met a more perfect asshole. I mean, this guy is actually mean. Like……really really really narcistic mean. And he doesn’t get better….ok, maybe marginally better. And I LOVE HIM. Like I have deep, down love for this man.

I loved how LJ Shen MADE ME LOVE HIM. She did. She took my heart in her hands, and said, “JENNIFER, YOU WILL HATE VICIOUS SO MUCH, YOU WILL LOVE HIM.” And I did.

So thank you, LJ Shen, for making me hate…I mean, love him. ALL THE HATE/LOVE FOR VICIOUS.

GOODREADS | AMAZON | MY REVIEW

THE DUCHESS DEAL by Tessa Dare

I begged for this ARC.

Literally.

And I’m not even sorry.

Was I surprised by how much I loved this book? Absolutely not.

I will always love Tessa Dare….always.

I always giggle in her books.

I always swoon in her books.

There is almost always a hate-to-love relationship, which is perfection for me.

The Quirk! The Dry Humor! The Witty Dialogue! ALWAYS!

GOODREADS | AMAZON | MY REVIEW

UNCONTROLLABLE TEMPTATIONS by Janine Infante Bosco

Janine doesn’t mess around. She jumps right into the center of the Satan’s Knights and writes the President’s book first, and Gawd, it’s beyond.

Jack and Reina find SOLACE in each other. Isn’t that what we all want? Just a little bit of PEACE.

She does it again with the issues. (There was a lot of cursing at Janine for writing a book such as this. For example, “Damn you, Janine!”)

I’ve never read an author like this, especially an MC series like this. This is definitely in my top 3 favorite MC series (with Kristen Ashley and Lauren Gilley). Janine makes it REAL. I came out of this book with HEALED SCARS and NEW SCARS. How did this book changed me? It helped me see that the thing that I viewed as the cause for my struggle can actually be my HOPE.

GOODREADS | AMAZON | MY REVIEW

THE FAILING HOURS by Sara Ney

This book has ALL MY LOVE!

Oh my…….Zeke and Violet have ruined me!

I was giggling so much throughout this entire book. Zeke is absolutely hilarious, and Sara Ney writes the male POV PERFECTLY! This book is the epitome of why I love assholes so much.

Zeke is a pissy, giant bear. Ugh. I loved him. He’s so broody and angry all the time.

This book is all kinds of my favorite.

I love broody Zeke. I love mousey Violet. I love the writing.

I love the FEELS. I didn’t expect the feels and the swooning. Zeke falls HARD for Violet, and I fell HARD for Zeke and Violet.

GOODREADS | AMAZON | MY REVIEW

SLEDGEHAMMER by P. Dangelico

Confession: I have a THING for lawyers. And when I say a THING, I mean an OBSESSION.

Maybe it’s the suit.

Maybe it’s the ego.

Maybe it’s the brain.

I don’t know, but I cannot resist a lawyer.

This book is Opposites Attract in all its glory. Hilarious. Feel-good. Snarky, swearing heroine. Swoony.

And did I mention hilarious? He is broody & sweet & the slow burn.

THE SLOW BURN!!! Oh, and the “effing smorgasbord of feelings!!”

GOODREADS | AMAZON | MY REVIEW

WOUND TIGHT BY Tessa Bailey

Spontaneous combustion does exist.

Because that’s exactly what happened while reading this book.

Oh man oh man oh man.

The business man and the security guard GET…IT….AWWN!!!!

It’s impossible for Tessa to NOT write dirty words.

The manly banter between these two.

I could just listen to Renner and Milo talk to each other and “fight-flirt” …. all…. day.

GOODREADS | AMAZON | MY REVIEW

SUTPHIN BOULEVARD by Santino Hassell

Once upon a time, there was a girl named Jennifer who was a idiot because she had never read Santino Hassell.

This will probably go down as one of the biggest regrets of her life.

But once she reads Santino Hassell, it becomes one of the best choices she has ever made in her life.

Santino, Can I slap your ass, I mean hand, for being so dirty?!

I mean, anyone this dirty needs to be handcuffs….damn it, I can’t even talk right now without dirty words spewing out of my mouth because Santino has ruined me.

GOODREADS | AMAZON | MY REVIEW

FIELD-TRIPPED by Nicole Archer

I love that neither Eli or Charlie take themselves too seriously.

What could have been a tear-jerker of angsty proportions (*gag) instead turns out to be one of my perfect reads.

At the same time, Archer weaves those words that evoke just enough feels to make the book mean something.

They are genuine, and their actions are unpredictable, much like real life.

Eli and Charlie have such a rich history that only the few can dream of, growing up together and knowing all the dirty little secrets from those intimate young moments.

GOODREADS | AMAZON | MY REVIEW

Check out Lana’s list HERE

Check out Geri’s list HERE

Leave a Comment · Filed Under: DGR Favorites · Tagged With: DGR Fave, Jennifer Reviews

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