Lana – Page 153

DGR Top Fave & ARC Review: ★Paper Princess★ by @authorerinwatt

March 23, 2016 by Lana · 2 Comments

Paper Princess
Series: The Royals #1
Genre: YA/NA Romance
Author: Erin Watt
Release Date: April 4, 2016

From strip clubs and truck stops to southern coast mansions and prep schools, one girl tries to stay true to herself.

These Royals will ruin you…

Ella Harper is a survivor—a pragmatic optimist. She’s spent her whole life moving from town to town with her flighty mother, struggling to make ends meet and believing that someday she’ll climb out of the gutter. After her mother’s death, Ella is truly alone.

Until Callum Royal appears, plucking Ella out of poverty and tossing her into his posh mansion among his five sons who all hate her. Each Royal boy is more magnetic than the last, but none as captivating as Reed Royal, the boy who is determined to send her back to the slums she came from.

Reed doesn’t want her. He says she doesn’t belong with the Royals.

He might be right.

Wealth. Excess. Deception. It’s like nothing Ella has ever experienced, and if she’s going to survive her time in the Royal palace, she’ll need to learn to issue her own Royal decrees.

PRE-ORDER

iBOOKS | AMAZON PAPERBACK

You should know whatever game you’re playing, you can’t win. Not against all of us.
If you leave now, you won’t be hurt. If you stay, we’ll break you so bad that you’ll be crawling away.”

Let’s talk about things that trigger my one-clicker for a second here, shall we?

Authors: we have a book that’s basically an angst filled love child of Cruel Intentions and Gossip Girl. There’s YA kind angst but with NA kind scenarios. There’s hate lust, an incredible tough as nails heroine, a bunch of sexy rich and entitled brothers that have enough issues to fill up Grand Canyon, a broody as hell alphahole hero that you’ll love to hate but secretly mainly love, and all of it is wrapped up in a story that’s more addicting than crack.

Me:

That about sum it up for you then? Good. Because if ever there was ever a book that was custom written for me, this is that book. At first the YA tag turned me away because I’m not a reader that enjoys YA. But the only thing YA about this book are the characters’ ages; the heroine is 17 and the setting is in high school. However, the events that take place are focused towards a more mature NA, which just happens to be my catnip.

Some kids dream of traveling the world, owning fast cars, big houses. Me? I want my own apartment, a fridge full of food, and a steady paying job, preferably one that’s as exciting as paste drying.

Ella Harper is exactly the kind of heroine I love to read about. She’s led a hard life in her young 17 years. Her mom may have been flighty and jumping from one boyfriend to the next all her life while struggling to support the both of them, but she’s all she’s ever known. Now that her mother has passed away, Ella has nothing and no one and struggles to make ends meet just to make it through high school so she can go on to college. When a man shows up at her school claiming to be her legal guardian and her father’s best friend, she’s rightful skeptical. But Callum is determined to help once he sees the way Ella’s been living and it’s not long before she arrives on the Royal doorstep much to the disgruntlement of Callum’s five sons.

The Royal boys are not what I expected. They don’t look like rich pricks in preppy clothes. They look like terrifying thugs who can snap me like a twig.

To say they’re not happy to see her, is an understatement. The Royals rule the school Ella now goes to and what they say goes. They’re determined not to go easy on the new girl, especially one that clearly doesn’t belong in their world. But Ella is no wilting wallflower. This girl gives as good as she gets and boy does that make for some entertaining reading.

This will never be my home. I don’t belong in splendor, I belong in squalor. That’s what I know. It’s what I’m comfortable with because squalor doesn’t lie to you. It’s not wrapped up in a pretty package. It is what it is.

This book was the perfect combination of angst with a slow burn of hate/lust all wrapped around an undercurrent of a slow burn sexual tension. Reed Royal is a character that you can’t help but love even while you love to hate him. He’s not nice to Ella, not at all, but yet the way that he’s written you can’t help but know there’s something beneath the surface of what he lets you see.; something dark and deep and you’re just itching to scratch at it to know what it is.

Here’s the deal,” he says. “My brother and father are off-limits to you. If you have an itch, you come to me. I’ll take care of it.

I absolutely devoured this book, and by devoured I mean I couldn’t put it down for even a second. It’s been a long while where a book has managed to suck me in as much as this one did. It’s filled with teenage angst and drama and characters that you can’t help but fall for. The authors did a phenomenal job creating these characters that are so real they practically jump off at the pages. I was enamored with the story. I was hooked on each page like a junky craving their next fix and angst just happens to be my drug of choice.
As for that ending? Well let’s just say I may or may not be rocking myself in a corner as we speak while I wait for July 25 to finally get here

2 Comments · Filed Under: All Reviews, DGR Favorites, New Adult · Tagged With: Book Crack, Book Reviews: 5 stars, DGR Fave, Erin Watt

Blog Tour, Review & Giveaway: ★Finley★ by @EllaFrank2012

March 21, 2016 by Lana · Leave a Comment

Title: Finley
Author: Ella Frank
Genre: M/M Contemporary Romance
Release Date: March 22nd, 2016

It’s time to come home, Finn.

It’s been seven years since Daniel Finley left his hometown in Florida for the hustle and bustle of Chicago’s city life.

Since then, he’s worked hard for his position at the prestigious law firm Leighton & Associates, even when it’s caused distance and isolation from his family and friends. But that’s all about to change.

On his thirtieth birthday, he receives the one thing he never dared hope for. Something that was promised to him years earlier—a note. One simple sentence from the man he’s never been able to forget.

Six words will forever change the course of their lives.

Brantley Hayes has it all. Or so he thinks. When he first made the decision to take a job down in Florida, his family thought he was crazy. But, after years of living in the quiet beach town, he finally feels a sense of community. He’s surrounded himself with friends who are like family, has a job he loves, and owns a spectacular beachfront property that is his sanctuary.

Yet he still feels unfulfilled, as if a piece of the puzzle is missing, and he knows exactly which piece it is. On an impulse, he follows through with a promise he made years earlier. A promise to call home the one he sent away.

Nothing is as simple as it seems.

After years of separation, the former lovers are reunited, but Brantley wasn’t expecting to encounter the high walls now guarding Daniel’s heart.
Daniel may not be the same person he was when he left, but he knows that the first step to healing is the note in his hand.

AMAZON

BRANTLEY KEPT A discreet eye on the final student to leave for the morning as Mr. Finley strode down the stairs to the front of the classroom. They were three weeks into the semester and he was ashamed to admit that, with every day that passed, his fascination with the young man grew.At first, he’d tried to convince himself that it was purely academic. The kid was smart. He’d aced all the weekly quizzes, and Brantley was more than aware of the way he watched him lecture with keen, intelligent eyes that never strayed from him.

Oh, he was fascinated, all right, but he made sure to tell himself at the end of every class that it had nothing to do with the mischievous grin Daniel would flash at his friends or the easygoing laugh that would bubble up out of him at any given moment. But he knew he was lying. Daniel was quite possibly the happiest person he’d ever met, and his joy of life lit up the room and everyone in it. Including him.

When Daniel stopped in front of him and dropped his paper on the desk, Brantley acknowledged him with a glance before returning his gaze back to the notes he was going over.

“Any big plans this weekend, Professor?”

The question had been so unexpected that he didn’t think to catch himself before he replied, “Nothing too big. Just going out with some friends. You?”

Daniel smiled at him as he shoved his arms through the loops of his backpack, and Brantley couldn’t help but look at his shirt as it stretched across his broad chest.

“I’m going to hit the beach. Such great waves right now.”

“Ahh, you like to surf. That explains it.”

When the side of Daniel’s mouth crooked up, the effect was charming as hell. The kid was a knockout.

“Explains what?”

Annoyed that he’d made such a stupid slipup, he looked back at the papers in front of him, hoping Daniel would get the message and leave. No such luck.

“Explains what?” he asked again.

Brantley sighed and rested his arms on the desk as he studied Daniel’s inviting face. “It explains your hair.”

“My—oh,” he said, touching the ends of it. “Do you like it?”

Stunned by the direct question, he sat back in his chair and fought the smile tugging at the corners of his lips. “Do I like your hair?”

“Yeah.”

“Does it matter?” Jesus, fuck. Stop it. Stop flirting with him.

But it was too late. Daniel put his hands on the desk and leaned forward, Brantley toed the ground, shoving his chair back.

“It could…”

“No. No, it couldn’t,” he said as he got to his feet, shaking his head.

Daniel straightened and tucked his thumbs into the straps of his backpack, no doubt to taunt him. His eyes were too knowing for someone his age, and when they held his longer than was acceptable, Brantley’s heart skipped a couple of beats.

“Was there something else, Mr. Finley?”

“You said you were going out with friends this weekend…”

Shit, did I? “Yes, that’s right.”

As Daniel ran his thumb down the left strap of his bag, he admonished himself for noticing every little move he made. He needed to get a fucking hold of himself.

“Are any of them more than a friend?”

If he hadn’t been watching Daniel quite so closely, he wouldn’t have believed the words that had just come out of his mouth. But he had been. So he did.

“I don’t believe that’s any of your business. You better hurry or you’ll miss your next class.”

Satisfied that he’d firmly dismissed Daniel, he sat down and made a show of focusing on the books lining his desk and didn’t dare look and see if he had left this time or not. He wasn’t sure what he’d do if he was still standing there.

He reached up to adjust his tie, which suddenly felt a little too tight around his neck, and with each passing second that he was consciously not checking to see if he was alone, he swore that it was getting tighter.

“Professor Hayes?”

His head snapped up at his name, and when Daniel had his attention, he continued.

“Are you gay?”

Brantley’s eyes widened, and he wondered how his mouth hadn’t fallen open at the blunt question. Instead, he went with, “Excuse me?”

“I asked if you were—”

“I heard what you said. But I don’t see how that is any business of yours, either. You should think before you speak, Mr. Finley. I’m your teacher, and it’s time for you to leave. This conversation is over.” He flipped open one of the books on his desk and shook his head. He couldn’t believe the audacity of the kid—or the fact that he was so damn forthright. As he sat there, grinding his teeth in an effort not to look at his student—who was still standing in front of his desk—a bead of sweat ran down his collar and he cursed the fact that his nerves were getting the better of him.

“I only asked because, well, I am too. And I thought it would be nice to have someone to talk to.”

Well, hell. He couldn’t fault him for that. The only problem was…talking wasn’t what sprang to mind when he was around Daniel Finley.

He clasped his hands on the desk and stared into the anxious face peering down at him. Daniel was worrying his lower lip with his teeth, and he suddenly looked very much the young man he was.

“Are you?” he asked again, and there was no way he could deny that hesitant curiosity.

“Yes, Daniel. I am.”

As his words drifted between them, Daniel’s mouth slipped into a smile. “Oh.”

Brantley laughed at that. He wasn’t sure what Daniel was thinking right then. He’d thought for sure with the way he’d been looking at him earlier that, if he’d admitted this, he would be fending off—or at least putting up a good show of fending off—an unwanted pass. But, instead, Daniel appeared thoughtful.

“Does that bother you?”

Daniel adamantly shook his head. “No.”

“Are you sure?” he pressed, and the look that entered Daniel’s eyes then was so hot that he thought he may overheat.

“Yes. I’m very sure.”

Oh, fuck. Okay. Where the hell did the nervous guy disappear to? One minute, Daniel was endearingly awkward, and the next, he was looking at him like he wanted to strip him out of his clothes and—“Stop right there,” he said, and he wasn’t sure if he was telling himself that or the contradiction eyeing him with newfound knowledge. “Whatever you’re thinking, stop thinking it.”

“Why?”

Yep, he was fucked. That wasn’t a word he generally used, but in this case, he was well and truly fucked. He should’ve just stuck to the run–along–now speech.

“Because I’m your teacher.”

“This isn’t high school. I’m an adult.”

He sighed. “That may be true. But I’m your professor and this conversation is inappropriate.”

“How? I just asked if you were gay and you said yes. I don’t see what the problem is.”

When Daniel aimed a mischievous grin at him, Brantley knew he was very aware of what the problem was.

“Out,” he said, pointing to the door. “Time to leave, Mr. Finley.”

This time, he made sure to watch Daniel so he knew he was actually leaving. He walked to the door, but at the last minute, he turned around to look back at him. Not willing to back down and show weakness, Brantley kept his eyes on his student as Daniel ran his tongue along his lower lip.

“You should call me Finn. Everyone else does.”

Christ. The kid was going to drive him to an early grave, but damn if he didn’t laugh at his audacity.

“Out,” he said again, and this time Daniel pushed out the door and disappeared into the hall.

Their past and present collided spectacularly, and as they collapsed onto the rug in a tangle of arms and legs, he wondered if they would ever be able to disentangle themselves long enough to find a new place to begin.

Did you know that Ella Frank is an ovary whisperer? It’s true. The woman can make them rev from 0 to 60 in just one chapter and keep them roaring the entire book.
And if there’s one thing that I’ve come to love from her it’s her incredibly sexy MM that she somehow manages to pack full of so much feeling, it practically jumps off the pages at you. And this book? This fantastically written, utterly unputdownable book may be my favorite book by her yet. I never thought I’d say this, but Finley and Brantley took my number one spot from Tate and Logan, and let me just tell you that I LOVED Tate and Logan.

And since we’re on the subject of Tate and Logan, while those that read The Temptation series with remember Daniel Finley, this book is a spin off and a full standalone. You don’t have to have read Temptation to enjoy this, but I highly recommend you do because it’s so worth the read. Now onto the review…

Daniel Finley is a successful Chicago attorney. He’s left behind his home and everything he knew to make it in the Windy City, and he’s certainly earned his success. But there’s always been something missing for him, and when he gets a note from someone in his past that he’s never forgotten or gotten over, he doesn’t think twice before packing his stuff and taking a vacation to his home town where everything started…

Brantley Hayes is a successful professor, but seven years ago he watched his heart leave with the man that still holds it. The years have done nothing to diminish those feelings, but he also knows that it’s done nothing to diminish Finley’s anger over how everything went down as well. But now Finley is back, and their time together may be on a timer, but Brantley knows that he’ll take anything for another chance. Daniel is not the same young man he left, he’s guarded, jaded, angry, and a whole lot more potent than he remembers. But that only serves to make the tension and chemistry between them that much hotter.

I want you. And I’m selfish enough to keep you for as long as you let me.”

The chemistry between Daniel and Brantley was palpable, as was their emotional connection. I absolutely loved the way that Ella Frank managed to flawlessly weave very well times flashbacks to work with the story. I’m a picky reader when it comes to flashbacks and I can easily say the way they were written here was my absolute favorite. They were well paced and perfectly timed to work with the story and drive the plot.

I adored Daniel and Brantley together. I loved the flip of their roles considering they first met as professor and student and Brantley was the more experienced one. That’s not to say Daniel ever paled in comparison. Oh no! He was just as dominant, but a lot more easy going and flirty in nature. The Daniel of today is…intense…to say the least and man did I gobble that up!

Now I’m right back where I was before I left.”
“And where’s that?”
“Tangled up in you,” he whispered against his ear. “It’s always been you.”

This book had everything I love in a romance; a touch of angst, emotion, and enough sizzle to set your kindle on fire! It was perfection with two of the most endearing alpha males I’ve read in a while. It was swoony and sexy and totally addicting. I tried to pace myself because I simply didn’t want it to end. I only hope Ella continues this (possible series?) with a secondary character she introduced in this book because I NEED IT!!!

Ella Frank is the author of the #1 Bestselling Temptation series, including Try, Take, and Trust and is the co-author of the fan-favorite erotic serial, A Desperate Man. Her Exquisite series has been praised as “scorching hot!” and “enticingly sexy!”

A life-long fan of the romance genre, Ella writes contemporary and erotic fiction and lives with her husband in Portland, OR. You can reach her on the web at www.ellafrank.com and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ella.frank.author

Some of her favorite authors include Tiffany Reisz, Kresley Cole, Riley Hart, J.R. Ward, Erika Wilde, Gena Showalter, and Carly Philips.

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Leave a Comment · Filed Under: All Reviews, Blog Tours, Excerpts, Giveaways, MM · Tagged With: Book Reviews: 5 stars, DGR Fave, Ella Frank

DGR Top Fave Review & Giveaway: ★The Enforcer★ by @Kele_Moon

March 20, 2016 by Lana · 2 Comments

THE ENFORCER
Series: Untamed Hearts Book 3
Author: Kele Moon
Genre: Erotic Romance, Romantic Suspense
Release Date: March 22, 2016

They are the lost boys.

Sons of mafia mistresses expected to keep their fathers’ sins in the shadows. The lucky ones are forgotten.

Unfortunately for Valentino “Tino” Moretti, his brother Nova was too smart to be forgotten, and too valuable to risk when he resists a life of crime. So they punished Tino instead. Forced into the cruel world of the Sicilian Mafia at twelve, Tino was broken before he was old enough to know the man he was supposed to be. Now he’s what the mafia made him.

The enforcer.

A trained killer forbidden to love, but he did anyway. He’s loved Brianna all along.

Raw and beautiful, their romance was all consuming and far too dangerous. They were ripped apart a long time ago. It’s not until the borgata puts out a hit on her that Brianna falls back into Tino’s arms, churning up their dark past and unraveling all the Moretti brothers’ closely guarded secrets.

This isn’t the end of the story. It’s only the beginning, and it is brutal.

There’s a reason enforcers are considered too deadly to love.

“We have to be better than them. Stronger. Faster. Smarter. Lost boys have to fly.” ~Carlo Moretti, original lost boy

Amazon US | Amazon UK | Loose ID

I was utterly obsessed with everything about this book, but what truly made the experience was reading it along with this incredible playlist! If you want an extra punch in the feels, you need to check it out!

THE ENFORCER SPOTIFY PLAYLIST

Together they were like a firework.
Beautiful in the night. A dusty smear of ash in the morning when reality crashed in and ruined the high. They just weren’t ever meant to be more than one brief, amazing explosion of memories that should’ve been enough to sustain them. But it hadn’t been. Not even close.

Powerful.
Emotional.
Gut wrenching.
All consuming.
Gritty.
And so raw it’ll make your heart bleed.

I say this each and every time I finish a book by Kele Moon, but unbelievably she only continues to get better and better. And that’s saying a lot considering how much I loved The Slayer. But Tino’s book? This was something else entirely. Kele truly takes you to the dark and violent underbelly of the New York mafia. She spares no details. None. You’ll read it with your gut twisted and your heart in your throat the entire time just like I did.

Prepare for much darker undertones than the previous books. Tino’s story is not for the faint of heart. It’s incredibly gritty and at times almost unbearably difficult to read. There are no parts that the author glazes over. When she gives you a story, she gives you everything.

I fucking love you, Brianna…
I wouldn’t just bleed for you… I’d bleed motherfuckers out for you.”

In case you didn’t know already, The Enforcer will be part 1 of 2, and with good reason. Tino’s story is not one that could be told in two books, nor should it be. I think it would almost be too much to handle. There is not one small dose of filler here. Each tiny detail is a plot driver and I am beyond blown away at the forethought this author gives every single one of her characters. If you want my advice, you’ll appreciate it so much more if you read the series this was a spin-off from, Battered Hearts.

The Enforcer will take you back to the very beginning. To the years when Tino, Nova and Romeo were just small boys. It will take you step by devastating step through the events that made them into the men that they are today. It will tell the story of how Tino and Brianna met. It’s incredibly powerful and easily one of the best books I’ve read not only from Kele but period.

I don’t remember the last time a book effected me on such a visceral level, but I swear I felt this in my bones, my blood, my very being. These characters are so real to me, and I’m beyond invested in their stories. I cannot wait for you all to fall in love with Tino even more, just like I did.

The Enforcer takes you back to the very beginning. To the days and the events that set everything in motion and what made Tino and Nova Moretti into the men that they are today. There are parts that will gut you; there are parts that will make you laugh, and through all of it you’ll be glued to the pages unable to focus on anything else.

Gino’s story was equal parts tragic and beautiful; tragic in terms what he’s been trhgouh and beautiful in terms of his love for Brianna. I cannot describe to you just how much this man loves Brianna. He’d do anything for her; sacrifice anything…even his own happiness to make sure she’s safe. Young Tino was a gut wrenching to read about. His story is so tragically brutal. He yearns for a different life but he lives in a nightmare of his father’s making…
Kele did such an incredible job navigating the reader through the years. So much so that you feel everything right along with the characters and by the time you get to the end, you’re yearning for their HEA as much as they are. God, it was amazing!

Their love had been wild, unpredictable, and so unbelievably raw and sensual it would likely never stop haunting her.

I adored Brianna. She’s such strong heroine but in an understated way. She truly understands Tino and everything that he is and accept and love him in spite of it. She’s the perfect match for his light and especially his dark sides.

I love you. Please remember that, okay?”
“I know….
I know, baby. It’s okay. I’m good…
I’m strong, remember?”
He did remember. So he fucked the shit out of her.
Hard. Angry.

You get not only Tino and Bri here; you get more Chu, a whole lot more Nova and a few other secondary characters that will capture your hearts.

Prepare for one hell of an emotional rollercoaster. This is a book you don’t just read you experience it.

Never forget that. You take from whores. Use them. Don’t love them”
“Why?”
“‘Cause they’re love starved. They’ve been hurt and beaten for so fucking long they are desperate for kindness. Love them, really love them, and they’ll die for you. They’ll bleed for you.

One of the best books I’ve read all year. If you haven’t yet discovered the talent that is Kele Moon, you are seriously missing out. This series is an absolute must read for any lovers of true anti-heroes with hearts of gold. I can’t recommend it enough!

Learn to fight your own battles. We have to be better than them. Stronger. Faster. Smarter. Lost boys have to fly.”

ARC provided by author

UNTAMED HEARTS Series

The Viper (Untamed Hearts Book 1 )
Marcos Rivera is a fighter. A gang member. Someone who has seen the dark side of humankind and survived. He has lost family and gained enemies. He has stolen cars and destroyed hearts, stripping one for money and the other for pleasure. His past is haunted and his future is bleak.

Until her.

Katie Foster is a high school history teacher. Smart, strong, and sexy. She is a woman Marcos shouldn’t want. Shouldn’t touch. Shouldn’t love. He met her in Garnet, a backwards, hick town that’s the last place in the world he wants to be, but he finds himself going back, all for a taste of the forbidden.

Katie represents all that is good in the world, and Marcos knows he’s nothing but trouble for her perfect life. He fights and he screws. He commits crimes and he breaks the rules. He will never change and he will never escape his gang lifestyle.

Or can he?

What happens when two different people from two very different walks of life risk it all by giving into the passion that threatens to consume both of them? Can a woman who only knows how to play it safe give her heart to a man who lives hard and loves harder?

Can she survive The Viper?

Amazon US | Amazon UK | Loose Id | All Romance Ebooks | B&N

The Slayer (Untamed Hearts Book 2)

To Chuito the apartment was a self-imposed prison for a lifetime of sins. To Alaine, the girl next door, it was salvation from her overbearing, religious father.

He was a devil.
She was an angel.

Two people who should’ve never met, let alone become friends, but it’s not until they give into the dangerous passion that’s been simmering under the surface for five years that things go to hell.

On the outside, Chuito ‘The Slayer’ Garcia is on top of the world. He’s successful. He’s wealthy. He’s a champion MMA fighter surrounded by friends who support him, but they don’t know what he was before he came to Garnet.

A gangster.

A thief.
An addict.
A murderer.

Now his past is churning up demons he can’t ignore. Chuito knows he needs to go back to Miami to end it, but there’s something holding him back, a single temptation he can’t resist before leaving.

Alaine.

She’s the one drug he can’t give up…even if it destroys them both.

“To me you’re coke. Fine. Smooth. Perfectly white. Very bad for me, but so fucking sexy I don’t give a shit. It’s worth going down for.” – Chuito Garcia

Amazon US | Amazon UK | Loose Id | All Romance Ebooks | B&N

The Enforcer is quite easily one of my most favorite books I’ve ever read. Period. And when I find a gem like this, I have to shout it from the rooftops. So I want to give a chance for one lucky follower to win an ebook of this incredible book. You can enter the GIVEAWAY on my Facebook page HERE.

2 Comments · Filed Under: All Reviews, Dark, Erotic Rom · Tagged With: Book Reviews: 5 stars, DGR Fave, Mafia

ARC Review: ★Nobody But You★ by Jill Shalvis

March 18, 2016 by Lana · Leave a Comment

Nobody But You
Series: Cedar Ridge #3
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Author: Jill Shalvis
Release Date: March 29, 2016

SOMETIMES YOU CAN GO HOME AGAIN…

After an overseas mission goes wrong, Army Special Forces officer Jacob Kincaid knows where he must go to make things right: back home to the tiny town of Cedar Ridge, Colorado. All he needs to scrub away his painful past is fresh mountain air, a lakeside cabin, and quiet solitude. But what he discovers is a gorgeous woman living on a boat at his dock.

Sophie Marren has nowhere else to go. She’s broke, intermittently seasick, and fighting a serious attraction to the brooding, dishy, I’m-too-sexy-for-myself guy who’s now claiming her dock. Something about Jacob’s dark intensity makes her want to tease—and tempt—him beyond measure. Neither one wants to give any ground . . . until they realize the only true home they have is with each other.

AMAZON | iBOOKS | B&N

I’m not really into hurrying,” he said.
“What are you into?”
“Slow. Long. Hard. Hot. Dirty…” His teeth sank into her earlobe. “You still in?”

Sometimes a girl just needs a sweet, light and steamy romance with a quirky heroine and a broken but swoony heroine, and this book definitely delivered! It had the feels, the swoons, and the laughs. I enjoyed every single page of it!

Now I went into this a little backwards as I hadn’t read the previous two books in the Cedar Ridge series. That being said, I had absolutely no problems jumping right into the story and the book is easily read as a standalone. Though I do plan to rectify my mistake by going back and reading the other two books because I fell hard for the Kincaid siblings.

He’d been a lot of things in his lifetime: brother, son, friend, Army Special Forces officer. He was none of those things at the moment, though he intended to change that.

After years of being away, Army Special Forces officer Jacob Kincaid is back in the town of Cedar Ridge with the intent of making things right with his siblings and his mother. Fresh off a mission gone wrong overseas, he’s still dealing with the crippling grief and all the things that sent him packing overseas to escape in the first place. Jacob was such a great character. He’s broken and slightly broody, but at the same time he’s perfectly swoony. He was incredibly endearing and I loved how the author was able to get across his emotional wounds to the reader but yet he wasn’t an a-hole. He was just a regular man with issues. Nothing overboard, nothing crazy, and yet it worked oh so well.

Sophie Marren quite easily made this book for me. Here’s a woman that’s been married for years to the a-hole of the century. She gave up everything for him and yet after their divorce all she has to show for it is a boat she never wanted in the first place and a whole lot of justified bitterness. But she was such a breath of fresh air at the same time. While her marriage was anything but happy and she’s definitely bitter about how everything went down, she’s also incredibly quirky. I adored her sense of humor and the way she bantered with Jacob. When these two meet, the sparks fly right away and I simply couldn’t get enough of the two of them together.

They just made so much sense together and were this perfect combination of great banter and sizzling chemistry.

Nobody But You was everything I love about Contemporary Romance. It was written with feeling and packed in plenty of swoon and steam. The characters are incredibly endearing and I fell in love with all the secondary characters as well. This book is exactly why I’m such a big fan of Jill Shalvis. It’s just one of those feel good romances you’ll never want to put down. It will make you smile and it packs in just enough steam to make you pant. Simple romance perfection. I can’t recommend it enough!

ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review

Graphic is stock purchased and created by me for DGR blog. Please don’t share without permission

READ THE SERIES IN ORDER

Leave a Comment · Filed Under: All Reviews, Contemporary Romance · Tagged With: Book Reviews: 4.5 stars, Jill Shalvis

Review Tour: ★Rough Rhythm★ by @mstessabailey

March 15, 2016 by Lana · Leave a Comment

Rough Rhythm
Series: Made in Jersey #1.5
Genre: Contemporary Erotic Romance
Author: Tessa Bailey
Release Date: March 8, 2016

God help the woman I take home tonight.

Band manager James Brandon never expected to find the elusive satisfaction he’d been chasing, let alone stumble upon it in some sleezy Hollywood meat market. Yet the girl’s quiet pride spoke to him from across the bar, louder than a shout. Troubled, hungry and homeless, she’d placed her trust in him. But after losing the grip on his dark desires that one fateful night, James has spent the last four years atoning for letting her down.

This time I’ll finally crack him.

Rock band drummer Lita Regina has had enough of James’s guilt. She wants the explosive man she met that night in Hollywood. The man who held nothing back and took no prisoners—save Lita. And she’ll stop at nothing to revive him. Even if it means throwing herself into peril at every turn, just to get a reaction from her stoic manager. But when Lita takes her quest one step too far, James disappears from her life, thinking his absence will keep her safe.

Now it’s up to Lita to bring James back…and ignite an inferno of passion in the process.

Reader Advisory: ROUGH RHYTHM contains fantasies of nonconsensual sex, acted upon by consenting characters. Readers with sensitivity to portrayals of nonconsensual sex should be advised.

AMAZON

“Oh, goddamn you.” Lita plucked the card from his fingers and hurled it back into the hallway with a muffled scream. “Four years leads to this, huh? You’re just going to dump me in this fucking…”—she waved her hands to encompass the hotel—“…rock star purgatory and bail? If you’re doing this to teach me a lesson, I will never forgive you, James.”“I’m not.” He cleared the cobwebs from his throat. “That’s not what this is.”

Without looking at Lita, he knew she’d be chewing her bottom lip, leaving teeth marks that would take until nighttime to fade. “I guess we really meant a lot to you if it’s this easy. No notice. Just…peace out, suckers.”

James swallowed the urge to shake her. “I think you know this is the furthest thing from easy.”

“No. I don’t know anything,” she shouted, before several silent beats passed. “Except that you’re a coward. You can’t even look me in the eye.”

He surged forward, pushing her back against the doorjamb. Going to break. Too much. I shouldn’t have come up here. He’d made the mistake of looking down into green eyes swimming with moisture, calling her bluff. “Does the thought of you hurting yourself to get my attention make me a coward? Yes? So be it, Lita.” His fingernails dug into the flesh of his palms. “If something happened to you, I wouldn’t make it to the next sunrise.”

Lita’s body deflated, head falling back. “You can’t say something like that and leave,” she said, lips hardly moving. “It’s cruel.”

“I’m a cruel man.”

“No.” Lita moved into the elegant room, booted feet dragging. A miniature hurricane in a gilded cage. He’d chosen the room himself, another sign of his madness, his need to control her surroundings. Have knowledge of everything she touched. His neck grew hot when she turned, sliding a gaze down his front.

Turning and leaving was imperative at that moment, but he couldn’t resist hearing what she would say next. Delaying the good-bye.

“Remember what you called me the first night we met?” She sat down on the edge of the bed. “Before you leave, call me that one more time.”

“No.”

I want bad things…Need them.”
“Bring it.”

Well hot damn! The queen of dirty talk is at it again and I’m not sure any ovary within a 100 mi radius will survive this one. As a matter of fact, say goodbye to those suckers right now or put them on ice. Even my steel plated ovaries had a meltdown here because DAMN! Seriously though. Stick a fork in me, I’m done! I think I fertilized like 10 eggs while reading this one. If you could get pregnant by a book, this one should come with a damn warning! You could have run an entire city block on the electric chemistry James and Lita had. But enough about my reproductive process…

I’ve wanted to fuck you all day, every day, since you showed up.
Goddammit, you little tease.”

Fans of Dub-con are in for a treat, because Rough Rhythm is certainly skating that delicious edge. I’ve been looking for a novella similar to Willing Victim, and I do believe I found me one at long last! James is a dirty, dirty man, and I loved every filthy thing he said and did.

Now admittedly, I was not a huge fan of the first book in this series. But the one thing that caught my attention right away? The apparent chemistry between James and Lita! There’s this pent up sexual tension to them. Lita is constantly going out of her way to get into trouble so that her band’s grumpy manager can get her out of it and finally notice her. James and Lita shared one unforgettable night four years ago, but since then it’s been business only. James’s baser desires scare even him, and he’s determined not to unleash them onto Lita. There’s no way that she wants the same thing as him…right?

Sizzling is an understatement for what this book was. It was hot as hell! It skates that fine edge and deliciously so. It’s surprisingly well developed for a short novella. So much so, that you connect with both characters right away and truly understand them. You understand why James is so scared to unleash his true nature; the demons of his past that still haunt him. Lita was a fantastic heroine. She says what she means and means what she says, and she’s not afraid to go after what she wants. She may submit so sweetly to James’s dark desires, but she’s no pushover. She gives as good as she gets and you can’t help but root for her.

Look how agreeable I’m being.”
“Don’t make a habit out of it. I like when you fight me.”
“I like the way you get even.”

The only quibble I had is that I wished we got the full flashback of their night together four years ago. We get a snippet in the beginning and I was hoping we’ll get the full story further into the story. But aside from another short snippet, alas, that never happened. It alludes to what happens, but sadly for this pervert, never quite got down to the dirty details.

If you’re a fan of Tessa Bailey’s dirty talkers, you definitely don’t want to miss her dirtiest one yet! Make your ovaries happy and one-click this deliciousness!

Tessa Bailey is originally from Carlsbad, California. The day after high school graduation, she packed her yearbook, ripped jeans and laptop, driving cross-country to New York City in under four days. Her most valuable life experiences were learned thereafter while waitressing at K-Dees, a Manhattan pub owned by her uncle. Inside those four walls, she met her husband, best friend and discovered the magic of classic rock, managing to put herself through Kingsborough Community College and the English program at Pace University at the same time. Several stunted attempts to enter the work force as a journalist followed, but romance writing continued to demand her attention. She now lives in Long Island, New York with her husband of eight years and four-year-old daughter. Although she is severely sleep-deprived, she is incredibly happy to be living her dream of writing about people falling in love.

Leave a Comment · Filed Under: All Reviews, Blog Tours, Excerpts · Tagged With: Book Reviews: 4 stars, Tessa Bailey

New Release: ★Beneath These Lies★ by Meghan March

March 15, 2016 by Lana · Leave a Comment

BENEATH THESE LIES
Series: Beneath #5
Author: Meghan March
Genre: Suspense
Release Date: Mar 15, 2016

Look, but don’t touch…she might as well wear a neon sign that says it. It just makes me want her more.

She might be above me in every way, but I still want her under me.

I’ve got no business touching her rich-girl skin, but that won’t stop me from stealing a taste. Because rules were meant to be broken—especially when the prize is so fine.

In a world where nothing is at it seems, what’s buried beneath these lies?

Amazon US | Amazon UK | iBooks | Google Play | 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.

Abstract smoke on black background.

Leave a Comment · Filed Under: Uncategorized · Tagged With: New Release

Upcoming Releases for March 15

March 14, 2016 by Lana · Leave a Comment

I can’t believe another week has already gone by but it’s now that time again! So here’s a sum up of all the prettehs that are releasing on Tuesday, March 15 along with one that already released today! Happy one-clicking, dirty birds!

MARCH 14 RELEASES

BEFORE HADLEY by J. Nathan

What’s worse than a cocky new guy at school? A cocky new guy with a killer body and the attention of every female around. Hadley can tell the minute she lays eyes on Caynan that he’s someone to avoid. He may have looks and charm, but he’s also got heartbreak written all over his pretty face.

Unfortunately for Hadley, Caynan has his sights set on her. She’s the one girl who doesn’t want him. The one girl who’s turned off by his charm. The one girl who challenges him like no other. And, though she couldn’t possibly know the truth about him, she seems to be the one girl who really sees him.

But with Caynan, things aren’t at all what they seem. His secrets have secrets and everything out of his mouth straddles the line between truth and fiction. He knows better than to get involved with anyone, especially with his time limited in the new town, but he just can’t seem to get Hadley out of his mind. Too bad for him, secrets never remain secrets for long.

*New adult/Contemporary Romance – Recommended for 18+ due to language and mature content

LOVE, CHLOE by Alessandra Torre

Chloe Madison. That’s me. A former NYU princess who fell from grace, right off my pampered Manhattan throne and onto the unforgiving steps of Nicole Brantley, socialite and queen bitch. Now, I walked her dog and mixed her smoothies. Tried to navigate my own problems while fixing all of hers.

I wanted what every New York girl wanted. A career, an apartment, and true love, preferably in a smoking hot package.

It turned out … I’d have to fight for all of it.

MARCH 15 RELEASES

BENEATH THESE LIES by Meghan March

From USA Today bestselling author Meghan March comes a riveting new stand alone novel in the addictive Beneath series. Are you ready to go back to New Orleans?

Look, but don’t touch…she might as well wear a neon sign that says it. It just makes me want her more.

She might be above me in every way, but I still want her under me.

I’ve got no business touching her rich-girl skin, but that won’t stop me from stealing a taste. Because rules were meant to be broken—especially when the prize is so fine.

In a world where nothing is as it seems, what’s buried beneath these lies?Beneath These Lies is the fifth book in the Beneath series but is easily enjoyed as a stand alone.

PUSHING THE LIMITS by Jennifer Snow

An MMA Middleweight fighter gets blindsided by love in the latest Beyond the Cage Romance by the author of Fighting the Fall.

Dane Hardy’s MMA career was on the rise until a legal head kick killed one of his opponents inside the octagon. Consumed by guilt and depression, Dane quit the cage and took a job in security at a Las Vegas casino. But when Dane steps in to break up a brawl on the casino floor, the video goes viral. And now the Maximum Fight League wants him back…

Sports broadcaster Colby Edwards is out to prove that she’s more than just a pretty face. Going undercover as a ring girl, she plans to investigate what happens beyond the cage. And her timing couldn’t be better. Getting the story on Dane Hardy’s return could make Colby’s career. But the ex-fighter has his guard up against all comers. Breaking down his defenses consumes Colby, but not as much as the passion that ensues when she succeeds…

UNTIL TOMORROW by Annie Kelly

The author of After Tonight returns with another sizzling novel about dangerous desires and forbidden flirtations…

She’s trying the straight and narrow…

Carson Tucker only has one thing on her mind: getting her life back on track and pursuing her teaching career. She can’t afford to be distracted, yet no amount of good sense can compel her keep her mind—or eyes—off the brooding and mysterious Wyatt Sands. She agreed to be his tutor and help him finish his degree, but now she’s wishing she could inspire him in more ways than one…

He makes her want to break all the rules…

Still reeling from the tragic accident that took his best friend’s life and left him wheelchair-bound, all Wyatt Sands wants to do is forge ahead without any attachments. His solitary lifestyle works well until the after-hours sessions between him and his tutor turn hot and steamy. As the chemistry between them fuels a passion that is too electrifying to be denied, will Carson be able to break down the barriers that Wyatt has erected around himself—or will their fiery passion burn them both?

PHOENIX RISING by J.D. Tyler

From USA Today Bestselling Author J.D. Tyler comes a sensual, moving tale of the Alpha Pack–a top secret team of former Navy SEALs with supernatural abilities…

Wolf shifter and Firewalker Phoenix “Nix” Monroe has finally met his ultimate Bondmate–Alpha Pack nurse Noah Brooks. Unable to accept his own sexual identity, Nix rejects Noah despite the intense attraction he feels towards him.

By the time Nix realizes he has cast aside the love of his life, it may be too late to save Noah from a terrifying enemy…

Includes a preview of Chase the Darkness

GOING THE DISTANCE by Jennifer Fusco

The most restricted boxer at Las Vegas’s Stamina gym lets himself unravel in the second Ringside novel from the author of Fighting For It…

A dedicated fighter, Middleweight Michael Perez is willing to do whatever it takes to reach the top, and with his next fight scheduled at Madison Square Garden he’s almost there. A self-proclaimed control freak, he plans to drive himself cross country to the fight. But when his manager insists a sports reporter tag along, thinking it will be good for public relations, Michael finds himself under the watchful eye of Ava Phillips.

Ava Phillips has made a career out of exposing the underbelly of professional sports. Her instincts tell her that sexy, moody Michael Perez’s squeaky clean image is a cover for something more intriguing. Sharing the drive from Nevada to New York, Ava’s interest turns physical. But as their relationship heats up and Ava unearths his past, will she expose Michael’s darkness or succumb to the passions of a relationship she’s only ever read about?

Includes an exclusive preview of the next Ringside novel, The Hardest Hit

OUT OF FRAME by Megan Erickson

Romance trades the open road for the high seas in the latest from the
author of Focus on Me and Trust the Focus…

Perpetually shy, Quinn Mathers is content to remain in the shadow of his brash best friend Jess Hartman. But before their college graduation, he and Jess have planned one last hurrah: a spring break Caribbean cruise.

And it won’t be just any cruise. On board are members of the reality show Trip League, which follows young twenty-somethings on adventures around the world. Since the show’s beginning, Quinn has been fascinated by J. R. Butler, with his amazing body, warm eyes, and killer grin. Unfortunately, he’s straight—or so the world thinks.

At nineteen, J. R. signed a contract to play straight for the show, and there’s no way to get out of it now. Yet with each passing day, Quinn and J. R. find it harder to keep their hands off each other and to keep out of the camera’s frame. But when the lens finally focuses on them, J. R. must decide if he’s willing to risk his career by admitting his bisexuality, and Quinn must determine if he’s bold enough to stand in the spotlight with the man of his dreams…

NAUGHTY WISHES: PART III by Joey W. Hill

The author of the “erotic and emotionally charged”* Naughty Bits turns up the heat in Naughty Wishes Part III: Mind, as a boldly experimental threesome redefines the meaning of love and desire.

Samantha and her roommates Geoff and Chris always loved each other, but when Sam introduced the two men to the possibilities of deepening that relationship, something clicked. After all, they always had the desire to claim Sam, and to fulfill her fantasies of being taken by both of them. Yet as their sexual experiments grow in intensity, the two men open themselves up to even more unexplored naughty wishes – the ones they have about each other.

Although they’ve been close since childhood, there’s always been something more complex at the heart of the friendship between Geoff and Chris. All they needed was a catalyst to bring it to life. Now that Sam has become that catalyst, Geoff and Chris fight for dominance—and the struggle between them is the stuff of absolute ecstasy.

Includes a teaser for Naughty Wishes IV: Soul

ASKING FOR MORE by Lilah Pace

The incendiary author of Begging for It and Asking for It again plunges readers into the shadowy depths of love, pain, pleasure and peril…

How far is too far?

Finally sure of each other’s strength and love, Jonah and Vivienne continue to explore their darkest fantasies together. However, what should be a night of ecstasy takes a dangerous turn, injuring Vivienne. She shrugs off the incident, but Jonah is haunted by it, particularly by the fear that others may believe he abuses her, or even glimpse the truth of their erotic obsession.

Then Jonah receives a call from his younger sister, Rebecca, who’s dealing with trouble of her own in South America. When Vivienne travels with him to aid Rebecca, she learns yet more about his tortured history—and Jonah opens up to Vivienne as never before.

Can Vivienne help Jonah cast off the shadows of his past forever?

DARK PROMISES by Christine Feehan

Lovers challenge destiny and risk their lives in the new Carpathian novel by the #1 New York Times bestselling “queen of paranormal romance.”*

Gabrielle has had enough of battles, of wars, of seeing the man she’s engaged to nearly lose his life when it isn’t even his fight. Once Gary was a gentle and very human researcher. Now he’s a fearless and lethal Carpathian warrior with the blood of an ancient lineage coursing through his veins—a man Gabrielle still needs and dreams of with every breath she takes. All she wants is a life far away from the Carpathian mountains, far from vampires and the shadows cast by the crumbling monastery that hides so many terrible secrets. But Gabrielle soon learns that promises made in the dark can pierce the heart like a dagger.

And she isn’t the only one in search of answers in the corners of the unknown….

Trixie Joanes has come to the Carpathian mountains in search of her wayward granddaughter, fearing that she has been lured there by something unspeakable. Instead, Trixie has stumbled onto the path of a desperate woman on the run. And they’re all fated for the lair of a mysterious ancient with revenge in his soul and the undying power to make bad dreams come true.

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

New Release Spotlight: ★Before Hadley★ by @Jnathanbooks

March 14, 2016 by Lana ·

Before Hadley
Genre: New Adult Romance
Author: J. Nathan
Release Date: March 14, 2016

What’s worse than a cocky new guy at school? A cocky new guy with a killer body and the attention of every female around. Hadley can tell the minute she lays eyes on Caynan that he’s someone to avoid. He may have looks and charm, but he’s also got heartbreak written all over his pretty face.

Unfortunately for Hadley, Caynan has his sights set on her. She’s the one girl who doesn’t want him. The one girl who’s turned off by his charm. The one girl who challenges him like no other. And, though she couldn’t possibly know the truth about him, she seems to be the one girl who really sees him.

But with Caynan, things aren’t at all what they seem. His secrets have secrets and everything out of his mouth straddles the line between truth and fiction. He knows better than to get involved with anyone, especially with his time limited in the new town, but he just can’t seem to get Hadley out of his mind. Too bad for him, secrets never remain secrets for long.

*New adult/Contemporary Romance – Recommended for 18+ due to language and mature content

Amazon US | Amazon UK | iTunes | Kobo

Caynan and I stepped outside into the unseasonably cool night, walking through the parking lot in silence. I pressed my key to disarm the alarm. My car beeped, its lights flashing and briefly lighting up the dark lot. I stepped up to my door and turned to face him. “Thanks again.”

“Stop thanking me.” His tone was cold and clipped as he handed me my backpack.

“Sorry. I just meant—”

He stepped into me, forcing my back against the door. He grabbed my cheeks between his hands and stared down at me. “I want to kiss you so fucking bad right now.”

My heart slammed against my chest as my voice came out a mere whisper. “Then do it.”

His eyes didn’t waver from mine. “This isn’t a date. I said I wouldn’t kiss you if it wasn’t a date.”

I dropped my backpack to my feet, the thud carrying through the silent lot. “I don’t care.”

He closed his eyes and dropped his forehead to mine. “Part of me wants to prolong this. Make you crazy for me.” His eyes opened and he looked me dead in the eyes. “But the other part wants to taste what I’ve been thinking about doing since the moment I met you.”

I couldn’t stop my hands from drifting up the front of his shirt, over the solid muscles in his abs and chest. I’d never felt anything so freaking amazing in my life.

He didn’t seem to mind my exploration because he groaned deep in his throat. His breath, a mixture of soda and mint, floated between us. “Go out with me,” he said.

“I’m out with you right now.”

“A date. Then you better believe I’ll kiss you at the end of the night.”

“Maybe I don’t want to wait until the end of the night,” I challenged. What the hell was I saying? It was as if I was in a trance. A Caynan-induced trance. And my words were not my own. My body was not my own. My thoughts were not my own.

His lips twitched. “Is that a yes?”

I paused, trying to maintain every last shred of dignity I possessed. But I knew with every fiber of my being that Caynan Abbott would ruin me for all others. And when he finally kissed me, not only would it be explosive, but it would be something no one else would ever live up to.

I was so screwed.

I first discovered J. Nathan as a debut author with Before Alex and I was quickly a new fan. J writes wonderfully developed characters and swoon-worthy heroes and angsty romances that will hit the spot for any romance lover! Check out my review for BEFORE ALEX, and don’t miss J’s other book, SINCE DREW. Each book is a full standalone with a HEA!

UNTIL ALEX

On the outside, Hayden is every girl’s living breathing fantasy, brooding and devastatingly gorgeous. And while he spends his nights losing himself in alcohol and faceless girls, it’s all just a facade. An elaborate cover for the emotionless shell of a man he is. One who harbors too many secrets and destroys lives the way his was destroyed. It’s the reason he avoids relationships and keeps everyone at arm’s length…

Until Alex

Alex’s life just shattered into a million pieces, leaving her with more grief than she knows what to do with and guilt so deep it’s destroyed the carefree girl she once was. Now she’s hundreds of miles from home, living with an aunt she doesn’t know, finishing senior year at a college she’s never been to, and trying desperately to get through a single day without breaking down. She’s never felt more alone in her life…

Until Hayden

The trouble with Hayden is who he wants to be and who he is are in constant flux. And though he’d die before letting Alex learn the truth about him, he can’t be sure he’s strong enough to let her in…or push her away. She’s the one person who just might see the real him.

New Adult/Contemporary Romance – Recommended for 17+ due to language, violence, and sexual content

GOODREADS | AMAZON | MY REVIEW

SINCE DREW

All Andi Parker has ever wanted, all she’s ever dreamed of, is a spot on the Olympic track team. But when an accident leaves her hospitalized with serious injuries and shattered dreams, she’s not only uncertain what her future holds but also completely alone.

Drew Slater is a wanted man. Professional football teams want him for his arm. Women want him for his irresistible good looks and charming personality. But the well-crafted disguise he wears, the one that helps him score on and off the field, hides secrets. Conceals lies. Threatens the happiness of everyone around him.

One chance encounter brings Andi and Drew together, changing their worlds in ways they never thought possible. Unfortunately, what they thought they knew about themselves—and each other—might just be the biggest lie of all.

GOODREADS | AMAZON

I’m an avid reader of all things romance-especially those with alpha males. The more unlikable they are in the beginning, the better. Happy endings are a must. Don’t leave me with an unexpected cliffhanger or someone dying in the end. I’ll mope around and be too embarrassed to explain why. Love triangles and negative people are the bane of my existence. My family, friends, sangria, and watermelon margaritas are the light…

Website | Goodreads | Facebook | Twitter

· Filed Under: Excerpts · Tagged With: excerpt, New Release, spotlight

Hooker Line: ★The Enforcer Throwdown★ with @Kele_Moon

March 13, 2016 by Lana · Leave a Comment

If you follow any of us hookers, then you already know how obsessed we are with all things Kele Moon. I first discovered her with the hottest BDSM MMF I’ve ever read, Beyond Eden. Immediately after that I discovered her Battered Hearts series and I. Was. Hooked. I have been stalking her incessantly for every new release but then she did a spin off of her Battered Hearts and wrote Untamed Hearts, which is a grittier series and the most amazing anti-heroes I’ve read. (You can read my reviews for The Untamed Hearts series here: The Viper, The Slayer. Battered Hearts: Crossing The Lines)

Geri, Alex and I have been absolutely obsessed with this amazing series for years. We salivate for every new release and we spend an unhealthy amount of time fighting over a particular fictional character *cough* Nova *cough*. So with the upcoming release of Tino’s book; The Enforcer, we decided that we’d get her over to our Hooker Line and pick her brain on all things Tino, Nova, Untamed Hearts and much much more! We may have corrupted her a little, but if she tells you she didn’t like it she’s lying.

Make sure you visit each of our posts, because like all our Hooker Line features, we each put our own unique spin on the…chat 😉
Alex @AlleskelleBlogsButMostlyReads: http://wp.me/p5CGqW-1KZ
Geri @TheRacyLitReader: http://wp.me/p7eyRX-xa

Warning: There will be constant intermissions between questions for Alex and I to throw down over Nova. That whore has been after my man for years, and I’m having none of that! So without further ado, let’s get into this thing, shall we?

Oh wait….I meant the interview. We’ll wait for the hooker slap downs for at least a minute…maybe…

Lana: So let’s get right into it then? Like a gang bang.

Alex: Oh we’re doing this now? *affixing knives, guns ready, claws unsheathed*

Kele: LOL!

Geri: Speaking of gangbang, we’re officially welcoming Kele to the Hooker lair!

Lana: Fair warning, Kele, we’re probably going to be taking regular intermissions to bitch fight over Nova. So….

Kele: That’s fine. Nova won’t complain.

Lana: We don’t ease you into anything. No putting the tip in. It’s the whole 12 inches straight away.

Alex: Lana, you’re such a dirty whore. Way to ease things in.

Lana: Like this is a shock to anyone. Pfft! I think we scared Kele off. Kele!!!! I was just kidding (mostly).

Alex: Well, at least you could keep up appearances. you know? Be classy for once?

Kele: Nova will probably say there’s enough of him to go around. He’s been pretty stressed out lately.

Lana: Uhem! I’ll take care of him. My poor baby. *pets*

Alex: He already has me Lana. You can get back to your whoring ways with whomever man candy available.

Lana: Just stay away from my Nova and no one will get hurt. GAWD. But anyway

Geri: Now Kele, as you know, I’m volunteering to be referee because you know what will happen if I don’t.

Kele: I still stand by Nova claiming there’s no need for referee. He’s um…able to go the distance

Alex: Lana, you’re my friend so I’ll let you on that lie you like to tell yourself.

Geri: Lol!

Kele: Nova’s got some undiscovered talents. Well… not undiscovered…

Alex: LOL Kele. In The Enforcer he sure seemed to be, um, very capable. *fans self*

Kele: Yes, he does alright.

Alex: I was transfixed whenever he would enter a scene. I’m in love. *whispers*he is mine*whispers*

*PAUSE for slap down intermission because…ALEX!!! Boob slap is a must here!*

*And we’re back!*

Kele: There’s a lot of him in this book. In a lot of ways, it’s his story, too!

Lana: Let’s start from the beginning though. Can we do a short intro for Untamed Hearts for those that may be unfamiliar with it still (*totally judging them*)

Kele: Sure!

Geri: Yes, and for Kele herself. For our our followers who might not be familiar with her work (I judge them too, Lana)

Alex: I’m not judging, my greedy self would be totally okay to keep both Nova and Tino for meself.

Geri: ha! of course you would!

Alex: eh, you’ve met me. Greedy Hooker.

Lana: And Chuito! Don’t forget Chu! *mine*

Alex: Lana, let’s strike a deal. You keep Chu. I’ll take Nova and Tino. Everybody is happy.

*oh hell no! Definitely a pause for a slap down intermission*

*And we’re back*

Geri: But really, Kele, we would love for you tell our followers about Untamed hearts and your books in general.

Kele: OMG! I should be better at summing them up!

The Untamed Hearts books are a spin-off from the Battered Hearts book.

In Battered Hearts, the heroes are, for lack of a better term, all good guys. They are law abiding, hardworking heroes…

Geri: Yup. My love Wyatt is a good guy. *blushes

Alex: Lol Geri, you stopped blushing a while ago, Hooker

Kele: But in that three book series… There was a set of other side characters whose relationship with the law was very different. Through the story ARC of Battered Hearts the heroes of the first book sort of had to start to realize that everything wasn’t as black and white as they thought and that was largely to do with these side characters who were connected to Italian Mafia.

Geri: Wyatt in general is very stick in the mud, stick to his morals but he changed throughout the series when he met the Morettis.

Alex: The Untamed Hearts! Brilliant! I was dying to get more of the Moretti brothers.

Geri: I loved how the series is connected by the way.

Alex: And you did such a great job with it. Introducing them, interlacing the good and the bad… Love the connection Yes, Geri.

Lana: Now here’s a question I always get. Should people read Battered Hearts first to truly appreciate Untamed Hearts?

Geri: Yes, Great question, Lana I get asked the same questions myself.

Lana: Because I always say they should. Yes, each book stands strongly but the story ARC interconnects and I feel like you truly get a whole new appreciation for the characters if you follow their journey through both series.

Alex: I think it would be ideal, but not necessary.

Kele: I don’t think you have to read it… I really don’t… I’ve designed them to stand on their own, but I think as the series progresses… people may want to.

Geri: It would make people curious.

Kele: The first book, Viper was an unknown character in the Battered Hearts world. So clearly that stands alone by design.

Geri: I knew I was when I started reading it

Alex: It’s true, Kele, Marcos story was a standalone itself but I enjoyed knowing about others characters from the previous books. Definitely a perk.

Lana: But what about Untamed Hearts? Should that be read in order? Because that’s one I strongly feel should. There’s so much that happens in the very beginning.

Kele: Yes. I believe it should without a doubt… Because the plot lines tie together from book to book.

Geri: But these last three books is even more interconnected, right? When did the idea of a spin-off really started for you, Kele? Is it one of those things that the story just wrote itself? Or did you have to do a lot of plotting to tie things together?

Lana: YES! And the way these stories all interconnect? I mean, all the way back to Battered Hearts

Kele: There’s an overall issue/conflict that gets bigger and bigger with each one and I think readers will want to read in order.

Yes, The Untamed Hearts book are all interconnected… Viper, like I said, was a new character set in the same town as Battered Hearts. Chuito, the Slayer (Book 2) was a secondary character in Battered Hearts, but his real story was largely unknown until Viper, and then more so in his book…

*Pause for another slap down intermission because Alex is a thieving whore*

*And we’re back*

Lana: Now, did anyone else notice that the series gets progressively darker/grittier after the first book. Seriously. I feel like Marcos was a walk in the park compared to Chu. And then Tino’s book? #AllTheFeels

Alex: Right, Lana, I think I’ve had the worst book hangover and feelings crushed with this book than any other else in this series. Such raw feelings.

Lana: I love how raw and emotional the series is. But man, Tino’s book ripped my heart to shreds.

Kele: Okay, first… Yes, the series does get darker on purpose. As like I said, Battered Hearts had very law abiding heroes… So with Viper, he was sort of a first step into this darker series… Chuito got quite a bit darker and it sort of set us up for the dive into the mafia world with Tino’s story.

Alex: Do you have a family member part of the mafia somehow or…? How do you manage to write such realistic background for gangs and mafia in your books?

Kele: As for knowledge of the mafia, I have a lot of different resources. Friends in law enforcement, etc… Outside that, I have talked to a lot of interesting people who have stories to tell. Most of it, largely is research. Lots of research. But I do have people to call and ask questions.

Alex: Honestly the work research is completely astounding, to me. It feels all SO right, real…

Lana: I’m blown away at the amount of forethought that went into it. Seriously.

Kele: I reach out to people online. I find people who know something about different things and I’ll add them to my list of people to bug. I bug a lot of people!

Geri: I don’t think we can talk about this series without talking about the bromance. I love LOVE the relationships that these men have with each other.

Kele: I love writing male relationships. Brothers, friends, lovers, etc… That’s probably one of my favorite things to write. I dunno why.

Geri: I love how emotionally in touch they are to each other.

Lana: The bromance with Tino and Chu. Can we talk about that for a hot second? Because… LOVE

Alex: Ah the bromance. Best men’s relationship EVER in this series. Tearing up and cracking up at the same time.

Kele: LOL!

Geri: Love it. It shows, it feels really authentic.

Kele: I loved writing them! Tino and Chuito’s friendship was very fun. Because they are very different personality wise.

Lana: The part when they talk about manscaping. Best quote EVAH.

“You just told me you manspaced. You’re fucked up too.”
“It’s a common courtesy,” Tino went on. “No woman wants to suck on a hairy dick.” ~ The Slayer

Alex: LOL. And what about Marcos from Viper teaching how to perform oral to Chuito, eh?

Geri: LMAO!

Lana: HA! Marcos did have an oral fixation. I like!

Watching a hot girl come was his drug of choice. When other guys his age were sinking into drugs or alcohol, he was sneaking into girls’ bedrooms and going down on them. ~ The Viper

Kele: Loyalty is very ingrained in them…it’s intrigue to survival…but at the same time, it’s hard for them to trust.

Geri: Yes! And they won’t hesitate to die for one another.

Kele: Yeah… I think it’s sort of funny that Chuito, who is— I don’t want to say more conservative, but he holds his cards closer to his chest when it comes to sex, relationships, etc. is best friends with Tino and his cousin Marcos, who are both…very out there!

Alex: Marcos was the Manwhore of the lot then. Wait, I’m forgetting Nova’s ways.

Lana: The bond between them all is the best.

Geri: It’s the best thing to read ever.

Kele: As for at the loyalty, I think once Tino and Chuito really decided they trusted each other, that meant more than I think either of them understands from the other.

Lana: Now Nova is a bit of the odd man out. I feel he’s intriguing and misunderstood. No worries. I’ll take care of all his emotional boo-boos. Who would you say Nova feels the closest to, Kele. (hint: ME)

Kele: Well, Nova is very close to Tino.

Alex: Lana, you turn that off can’t you?

Lana: MINE!!!!!

Geri: Ok, here we go.

Alex: Are you off your meds again? We agreed earlier you take Chuito, he’s big and all, I’ll handle the Morettis. All of ’em.

*Clearly Alex is delusional so that calls for another hooker slap down intermission*

*Takes a moment to straighten up….and we’re back!*

Lana: You fuck off, Frenchie! Nova likes them Eastern European, so I hear. So, MINE.

Alex: I’ve got Eastern blood alright, grandmother was Ukrainian.

Lana: Mmm hmmm. Sure she was. Lie whore!Alex: I swear, you greedy hooker. Her name was Olga how more Eastern European you need?

Lana: Can you pick a more stereotypical Russian name? LMAO!

Kele: HEH!!

Alex: LMAO. It was really Olga. Lypinscisky something unpronounceable like all Eastern European names. I can’t even spell it right.

Lana: LOL.

Geri: This is what happens when you leave them alone for a sec, Kele

Alex: Shhh Geri. You just stay quiet in the background and try to take him off from us. I see your game, you silent sneaky hooker!

*Pause for another slap down because Geri is eyeing our man, I’m bringing my ninja moves out for this one!!!*

*And we’re back*

Kele: LOL! As of right now, Nova likes all types. He doesn’t have a type. He just likes women.

Alex: See? All type! Me type.

Geri: *blows whistle* Okay let’s get back to the questions. Sheath your claws hookers

Lana: But let’s get back to Nova and Tino. Their relationship got a hell of a revelation in The Enforcer. How hard was this book to write for you? Because I spent a good chunk of it a sniveling pathetic mess, rocking myself in a dark corner.

Kele: It was a hard book to write. I cried a lot. I think that’s part of the reason it took longer.

Alex: Oh no you don’t! You made us all cried SO much!

Kele: It was a draining book. I knew a lot of Tino’s dark secrets, but writing them was a different story. Shining a light on it…

Alex: Seriously, I wonder how you could even write it. Tino felt like a family member, and man, the things he gets through.

Kele: Tino has a special place in my heart, as he was a character that was largely unnoticed as hero material in other books.

Geri: Yes.

Lana: Now some may not know that you decided to split Tino’s book into two. Let’s chat about that. I personally, for all my hate of cliffhangers, appreciate that you did that. That is one story that couldn’t fit into one book. Don’t you agree, Geri and Alex?

Alex: I agree. It doesn’t end up on a cliffhanger IMO. The cut is perfectly made it’s a new adventure starting.

Lana: It really doesn’t. I LOVE the way the book ends. LOVE.

Geri: I think some stories needed to be told in length.

Alex: I feel like The Enforcer part one, is the Making of Tino. So it felt right to cut it where you did.

Kele: Splitting… I started to realize that in order to tell the whole story, it had to be two books. It would be simply impossible for it not to be.

Geri: I agree.

Kele: I started finding myself trying to figure out how to cut entire plot lines that were essential to the overall plot, to fit it into one book but they were so vital!

And literally in the blink of an eye, while I was discussing it with my publisher, I realized I had a cutting point.

It popped right into my head. Whereas before I thought it was impossible.

Lana: They were. It’s like two sides of a coin. Book one is Tino’s beginning. Every page was vital IMO.

Geri: And we still have so many things to know about Brianna and Tino’s relationship that hasn’t been touched in this book.

Alex: Exactly, Kele, I honestly don’t know what you could leave out… Honestly everything had its importance

Kele: Yeah. And there were some very vital plot lines that are going to come out in the next book that I was going to cut, which now I don’t have to and I’m glad. They really were vital.

*Eh, what the hell, another hooker slap down intermission time*

*And we’re back!*

Geri: let’s talk about the romance for a bit, since readers would have expectations about that part.

Kele: The romance. okay!

Alex: Let’s talk about romance then I’ll have a question about a, err… specific sex thing.

Kele: Okay. I can’t wait

Geri: Brianna and Tino met at a very young age and they have a lot of growing to do, how has Brianna shaped Tino’s decisions, his past, his future?

Kele: Well Brianna came into Tino’s life at a very critical time. And I truly believe not all aspects of their love, particularly in their younger years, is healthy.

Brianna and Tino share a connection instantly, but sort of by timing and confidence Brianna turns into Tino’s salvation in his mind. Coincidence not confidence. Lol!

Tino, quite literally worships her. More than once, he refers to her as his Madonna and that’s not flippant. To him it’s real.

Alex: He put her on a pedestal.

Kele: And Tino, through the course of his life, becomes a very dangerous person, though he is by far the nicest killer I’ve ever written. Tino is at his core a VERY nice man. But he is a killer and Brianna is his everything. That makes her dangerous, too.

Geri: Man, I can’t wait for book two, those two are going to light it up.

*Pause for another hooker slap down intermission because Geri is thinking about my other man*

*And we’re back!*

Alex: Okay. So, inquiring pervy minds want to know… We talked privately about the fact that your son was redirecting you toward a “safe” version of Games of Thrones”, saying GOT was not a show for moms… lol. But we Hookers know better than that.

Geri: LMAO!

Alex: How do you come up with such level of rawness in your sex scenes? You’re obviously GREAT at it, I wanted to know how you wrote your sex scenes. How are they coming to you?

Lana: OH MAN, I know, right? Wowser!

Alex: Because, I’ve read a lot of smut, erotica, and I mean it: A LOT. But your sex scenes? As Lana would say, ‘GAWWWD’.

Kele: Sex scenes… Do not come easily to me.

Geri: Whaat??

Alex: Really? No way. Kele, you are an EXPERT

Geri: Woman, it doesn’t show at all because Jaysus…

Alex: But the buildup of said sex scenes is so GEEWWWD. And the result? Mind-blowing. Always

Geri: Yass!

Kele: And by that, I mean, I can sit down and write a scene, like say, the manscaping scene. That came very easily. That banter is so easy. Sex scenes take I’d say 5 times longer. I’ve had scenes that take me WEEKS I have to get the right feel. I’ll delete a lot.

Alex: Can we have the deleted parts? Just for us? LOL The scraps, I’d take them. I’m not too picky. Lol!

Kele: Like I’ll start writing it and think…no. Nope, that didn’t work, and just toss it and start over.LOL!

I think for the first sex scene with Chuito and Alaine in Slayer. I tossed out about 4 versions.

Geri: Oh man, their dance though.

Kele: Same with the first sex scene in Star Crossed (Battered hearts book 2).

Alex: Well, the work you’re putting into them is definitely showing. It’s way more than just sex. Your characters always feel SO connected. Because of all the build-up between them, the game they had on, the waiting.

Kele: But actually I have to say, Tino and Brianna were one of my easier couples to write. Sex wise though, usually Tino ends up going somewhere and doing stuff that I’m like… stop it! Cause Tino really doesn’t have limits. At all.

Alex: There are always breathtaking dance scenes in your books. I especially love how they serve as a medium to express your character’s emotions. How do you do to write such vivid performances, are you a dancer yourself? Or?

Geri: I loved that dance in The Slayer. You could feel their movements and passion across the pages. Oh my gosh. Those scenes make me blush.

Alex: Yes Geri, you can feel them dance, so true! Almost hearing the music

Geri: And the sensuality. Oh my, lawd!

Lana: YES, Geri! It’s so sensual. You can FEEL the chemistry in the pages. OMG it’s amazing.

Kele: I am a great admirer of dancers. I took a lot of dance classes when I was younger, but I’m a train wreck with dancing. I have zero grace.

But, I think because of that I like writing it. Writing dancing in books is a hard sell.

Alex: So definitely fantasy on your part! Well, you could have fooled me!

Kele: If anyone expects me to dance the bachata, they are gonna be so disappointed.

Alex: I also know from chatting with Eden Butler that you helped her writing some dance scenes for Ransom’s story, Thick Love.

Kele: I watched a LOT of videos and music plays a big role. I have certain songs that let me feel things, see things.

Geri: I’ve watched those videos too. *fans self*

Kele: Also, research…again, and I did talk to dancers, and students in performance college.

Alex: Can I say I love your Spotify playlists you had on for your books? Totally helps getting in the right mood for the scenes.

Kele: OH YAY! I love my Spotify lists too. HEH!

Alex: I’ve had a good revival listening to EVE, lol. And the Italian songs? I made Swissman crazy with them! “funiculi, Funiculaaaaa” I’m totally singing now.

Kele: Tell him I apologize.

Alex: Meh, he makes me listen to heavy metal early on the weekends. He deserves a little payback.

Geri: Lol!

Lana: Did you have a favorite part to write in Enforcer, Kele?

Kele: My favorite scenes in Enforcer…there’s a big chunk towards the end, but I enjoyed all of it.

Lana: I listened to one song in particular while rocking myself in a corner during one specific scene in Enforcer. Man, it was painful, but that song. GAH!

Kele: Yeah frown emoticon I know what song it is.

Lana: I will forever reference that song to this book, I swears.

Kele: LOL! I felt like we should just have a cue music part of that scene.

Lana: For reals

Kele: But, yes, there’s parts of the end that I liked writing. I think because at that point, it was their happily ever after. It was sort of poignant to me, because books end, but life keeps happening. If their book had been a New Adult book, I could’ve ended there and the reader might have believed they lived happily ever after if that makes sense.

So because Tino’s life in particular was so hard. I liked writing those parts. funiculi, Funiculaaaaa…HA! I put that on just now. you guys made me nostalgic for it.

Alex: It completely makes sense. You’ve built so much around them, around TIno, how can’t you wish an early HEA for him and Brianna… He’s tied to the mafia and can’t possibly ease out from this life that easily.

Kele: Plus, there’s some funny, male bonding parts I also enjoyed writing.

Lana: So how about a tough question now? You ever play Fuck, Marry, Kill? *grins evilly*

Geri: Oh naughty games.

Lana: Mmm hmmm *waggles brows*

Kele: Oh! yes…

Lana: If you had to pick a character to fuck, marry or kill from the entire series….spill!

Kele: Okay. . . Can I kill ANY character? LOL! Can it be a bad guy?

Lana: Totally. Anyone.

Alex: Lana, we would all know your choices…

Lana: I’d fuck Marcos, Marry Nova, and have no clue who I’d kill. LOL. W

Alex: I know who I’d like to kill but it’ll be a spoiler… For killing, it’ll be a woman.

Lana: AH. I think we’re thinking of the same person, Alex. Of the female variety *thinks murderous thoughts*

Alex: And I won’t kill her clean. Wouldn’t. I mean she doesn’t exist right?

Lana: I’d kill that person so dead! Then bring back to life so I can kill all over again!!!

Geri: I’m curious who Kele would kill

Lana: YEP

Alex: Oh yeah.

Kele: Okay. Fuck–Nova. Marry–Tino. Kill–It’s a tossup, but they’d have the last name Brambino which will mean nothing to people who haven’t read the book.

Alex: Lol. I’ll fuck Nova. Marry Nova and kill whomever approaches Nova. *grins*

Kele: LOL!

Lana: Woman, we’re about to throw down again. We Russians fight dirty

Alex: Lana, there is no throw down. He is mine. I know I’m a little Ukrainian, hooker.

*As if there was ever any doubt….THROW DOWN INTERMISSION!!!*

*And we’re back*

Lana: So you think, delusional woman *pets*

Alex: French know better.

Kele: As we saw in this book… Nova speaks French. lol!

Alex: Eh. My point, Kele, I know, I taught him to.

Lana: SHHHHHH don’t tell her that! She’ll never shut up about it.

Kele: LOL!

Alex: What do you want? The French charm, you know…

Lana: See?!! See what you did?! Thanks for reminding her, Kele. *grumbles*

Alex: We had long nights frenching each other up… *Sigh…

Lana: Har-har

Kele: Was he as good as I hear?

Geri: LMAO!

Alex: The best. I have no words…

Lana: *plans murder* So let’s wrap it up, shall we?

Alex: Lol Lana. Yes, let’s, before I smack your ass again!

Kele: LOL!

Geri: LMAO!

*eh, what the hell, another hooker slap down to really drive the point home*

Alex: Kele, you’re going to share some Enforcer exclusive excerpt with us Hookers, right?

Lana: I think that’s the perfect way to close this up. An enticing little excerpt.

Kele: Alright! Also…LOL! You gotta make sure my spelling doesn’t suck

Alex: Oh don’t worry, lots of edits to make (erasing Lana’s claiming of Nova.)

Lana: YOU FUCK OFF, you cheating whore!!

*Clearly another slap down intermission is needed*

*And we’re back*

Kele: That too

Lana: We triple edit. No worries. Lol

Geri: As always, we enjoyed talking with you

Alex: It was a pleasure chatting with you, Kele! Thank you!

Kele: Ditto! I had a great time. Thank you!

Alex: And thank you for reminding Lana’s about mine and Nova’s past experience. That’ll teach her.

Lana: LOL!

Kele: You never know, in the coming days, you could have competition for Nova. So enjoy it while you can.

Lana: Yeah…thanks, Kele, LOL

Alex: Night Geri! (I think she’s sleeping. It’s 4 am for her).

Kele: Night, Geri!

Geri: Night, Hookers!

Well…us hookers barely survived that. Those slap downs are exhausting, but gotta protect my man from those thieving whores.

Want more? Read on for an exclusive excerpt form THE ENFORCER, releasing March 22, 2015. Make sure to add it to your GOODREADS TBR!

Tino pointed out to the dance floor. “That’s my sister that motherfucker brought with him!”
He didn’t have to say any more.Meilei tossed his bag at him, and he stormed into the crowd, shirtless, with his gun showing. Not too many people were paying attention anyway. It’d been about an hour since he got there, which meant everyone was already rolling their asses off.He snatched a glow pen out of a party girl’s hand, because she’d been writing on her boyfriend. Then he walked right up to Carina and caught her arm.She gasped, clearly in full defense for about two seconds before she yelled over the music, “Tino! What’re you doing here?”He was dealing for their father, but he didn’t explain it to her.Tino just leaned down and wrote on his sister’s forehead in big block letters that glowed under the black lights.MORETTI“If it says moron, I’m gonna be really fucked off!” Carina shouted at him. “Why are you coloring on me?”“Why are you here?” he screamed and then pointed to Dominic. “With him?”

“’Cause he said he knew the location!”

“You’re not allowed to go to raves!”

“Since when do I only do what I’m allowed to?” Carina shouted back at him.

Well, yeah, there was that.

He turned around and grabbed Brianna, making her gasp. She was wearing one of those low-cut V-neck shirts that Tino was sure Dominic really enjoyed. Dancers, for some reason, were way too comfortable in very little clothing. So he wrote it across her chest, from the slope of her left tit up to the right side of her collarbone.

MORETTI

In big, bold letters that glowed blue under the black light.

Brianna stared down at it and then looked at him. “What does this mean?”

“It means private property!” Tino looked at Dominic when he said it. “You’re leaving! Step out right now, or I’ll have you thrown out!”

Dominic shrugged. “Then you owe me twenty bucks.”

“For what?” Tino followed his line of sight to see him staring at the water bottle in Brianna’s hand. “Oh, you motherfucker.” Tino pulled his Beretta out and pointed it at Dominic. “Get out! I will fucking kill you! I swear to God!”

People screamed and backed up, but Carina and Brianna jumped forward and caught his arm, which was a really dumb, extremely naive thing for them to do. Fortunately, Tino and Nova had been practicing with Carlo for the good part of two years, and Tino wasn’t one to misfire on accident. In fact, he was pretty fucking sure he could put a hole right through the center of Dominic’s forehead.

“It’s okay!” Carina screamed at him. “We asked him to bring us! This is our fault!”

“Did you ask him to drug you?” Tino shouted at his sister without taking his eyes off Dominic.

“I took it!” Carina was still holding on to his arm. “I’m the one who took it! I wanted to.”

“You took E with Dominic Brambino around.” Tino cast a side glare at Brianna for that one, just quick enough to let her see how fucking disappointed he was in her. “He gave it to you so he could fuck you! He told me that’s why he gave it to you! He said he brought his own pussy! Who do you think that is, Bri? ’Cause it’s not Carina!”

“I didn’t take the ecstasy he bought,” Brianna assured him. “I’m not stupid. I just came to dance and make sure Carina stayed safe.”

“Who gave you the water bottle, then, if you’re so fucking street-smart!”

Brianna looked at the mostly empty water bottle in her hand and glanced back at Tino with wide eyes.

“I’m gonna fucking kill you,” Tino told Dominic, and he was dead serious about it, because the Brambinos had taken so much from him. Now that motherfucker was going to drug and screw Brianna just to piss him off. That felt like a murder worth going down for. “I just wanna kill you. I wanna put a bullet in your brain.”

“You know what will happen if you do that?” Dominic didn’t even look nervous about it. Like he was so fucking secure in his family’s control over Tino he was fearless in the face of Tino’s gun pointed at his head. “Is that a risk you’re willing to take?”

“What the fuck is going on?” Nova shouted before Tino could decide. “Valentino!”

“He drugged Brianna’s water,” Tino explained without lowering his gun. “And he gave Carina E.”

“Holy shit, why would anyone do that?” Nova made it sound like that was the worst possible combination he could think of. “Get him out!” Nova pointed at the door when the bouncers came up. “You let Carina in! The don would lose his fucking mind!”

“We didn’t let her in!”

“Well, she’s in here!” Nova threw up his hands in disbelief. “And this puttana tricked Tino into selling him E to give her. I can’t even fucking conceptualize what Carina is gonna be like on E. Now thanks to you motherfuckers, I get to find out!”

“You sell drugs?” Brianna asked him.

“I—” Tino put his gun back, because the bouncers grabbed Dominic real fast once the don was mentioned. “Yeah, sometimes. I sell them sometimes.”

“For the Borgata?” she asked in disbelief. “Do you like selling it?”

“This situation is awesome on so many levels.” Nova looked a little manic. “We have to leave. Right now.” Then he leaned down and got in Carina’s face. “Thanks for ruining my buzz, princess! This was one of my last weekends!”

“You ruined my buzz!” Carina shouted back at him. “I can’t do anything!” She pointed to her forehead. “This is my life! I’m gonna die a virgin because my family is psychotic, and everyone knows it!”

“Oh my God, is she fucking for real.” He turned around and walked toward the door shirtless. “I can’t deal with her princess problems.”

A freckle faced, redhead born and raised in Hawaii, Kele Moon has always been a bit of a sore thumb and has come to enjoy the novelty of it. She thrives off pushing the envelope and finding ways to make the impossible work in her story telling. With a mad passion for romance, she adores the art of falling in love. The only rules she believes in is that, in love there are no rules and true love knows no bounds.

So obsessed is she with the beauty of romance and the novelty of creating it she’s lost in her own wonder world most of the time. Thankfully she married her own dark, handsome, brooding hero who had infinite patience for her airy ways and attempts to keep her grounded. When she leaves her keys in the refrigerator or her cell phone in the oven he’s usually there to save her from herself. The two of them now reside in Florida with their three beautiful children who make their lives both fun and challenging in equal parts–They wouldn’t have it any other way.

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Blog Tour, Review & Giveaway: ★Hooker★ by @BrookeBlaine1

March 11, 2016 by Lana · Leave a Comment

Title: Hooker
Series: L.A. Liaisons, #2
Author: Brooke Blaine
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Release Date: March 9, 2016

Whoever said singles were missing out by not finding true love and getting married before the age of thirty had never experienced the sheer pleasure of nightly romantic comedy viewings in their underwear while eating one of Licked’s famous Crazy Cat Lady sundaes. Because life just doesn’t get better than that.

At least, it doesn’t for Shayne Callahan. It didn’t take more than a handful of broken hearts after college to solidify that she was better at pairing up those around her than herself. As a matchmaker at the elite HLS—Hook, Line, & Sinker Matchmaking Company—in the City of Angels, she has a knack for finding the other halves of even the most eccentric clients:

Sugar daddy with a foot fetish? Gross, but no problem.
A severe case of nudophobia? Match made before lunch.

But even the most happily independent of women can find their best-laid plans screeching to a halt when they meet that guy. For Shayne, that guy comes in the form of boyishly handsome, suspender-lovin’, dimple-poppin’ Nate Ryan on a pantsless (we’ll get to that later) Metro ride.

Of course, relationships can never be easy. Before the destined lovers can ride off into the sunset, they must overcome a power-hungry and sexual-punning boss, a celebrity scandal and cover-up, and let’s not forget Shayne’s dreadful foot-in-mouth disease—with which there can never be a happily ever after.

Will fate throw Shayne a freakin’ bone? Or will she be destined to live out her life as sexy(ish), single(ish), and L.A.’s finest Hooker (upper)?

AMAZON US | AMAZON UK

“Hi,” I managed to say.
Nate nodded toward my legs. “Your pants are making me hungry.”Aaaand that was the point where I stopped breathing. Except to say, “What?”His eyes trailed down my body and rested on my thighs. Self-conscious, I looked down, almost sighing with relief when I realized my lower half was indeed covered this time, but that feeling went away pretty fucking fast when I saw the ice cream cones on my pajama pants practically flinging themselves at him.

Yes, I’d gone out in public in pajamas, so sue me. I hadn’t counted on running into…well, anybody.

“Oh. Oh yeah, um…I like ice cream,” I mumbled. “Especially from Licked, my friend Ryleigh’s store, although I have to say, her boozy shakes are unreal, especially the Make Me Quake Shake, which has these amazing pieces of those Ferrero Rocher balls in them, and they just give it the perfect amount of crunch so that you—” I stopped and took a breath when I noticed his grin getting wider. I swallowed and then said, “Not that I go there all the time or anything. Because I don’t. I mean, I’ve only been once or twice. You know…to taste test. Actually, I never eat sweets.”

He laughed then, and those penetrating eyes, tinged with more green than brown today, made their way up my body once more, pausing with what looked like amusement at my full hands. Then his gaze was on me and those dimples were out in full force.

“That’s too bad,” he said. “I’ve got a helluva sweet tooth.”

Wait…was he flirting with me? Was that a come-on? Or just stating a fact?

“Yeah, well, in that case your dentist probably hates you,” I said, readjusting the cold-ass meals in my arms. I’d be damned if I let those suckers go now. I’d tied my jacket around my waist, and my thin tank top would reveal a tit-bit more than I needed him to see.

He chuckled at that. Hmm. He had a nice chuckle. And a husky laugh. Both of which made my eyes zoom in on his throat. I wondered if it was as warm as it looked. He must’ve caught me staring, because he coughed, bringing my attention back to his face. His eyes were twinkling something wicked.

“You might be right about that,” he said. “Maybe I don’t like people telling me what to do. Or dictating what I can and can’t put in my mouth.”

My mouth dropped open, but I quickly snapped it shut. This guy was obviously a charmer, and after dealing with guys like him all day, the last thing I would do was fall prey to another arrogant playboy. Nope. Not me. Not gonna happen.

There was only one thought on my mind as I watched him walk to his car and drive away. I was in trouble. Big, dirty, delicious trouble.

#HappyFeels

Brooke’s L.A. Liaisons series is my happy place. The books are guaranteed to put a smile on my face and make me feel like I’m frolicking through a field of rainbows and kittens. Too much? My point is, they’re the perfect feel good romances. They’re steamy, funny, fantastically developed and fabulously written. I’m hooked and I never want it to end!

I highly recommend reading this series in order since you really get a better feel for the girls’ friendship and get to know the characters before their books and it just heightens the enjoyment that much more. We met matchmaker extraordinaire, Shayne, in the previous book. Shane is the Aussie import of the group that works for a successful matchmaking company but unfortunately has a real c u next Tuesday for a boss. I was eager to get my hands on her story because 1. I love matchmaking plots and 2. I was hoping Shane would grow a spine and give as good as she gets when it comes to Val.

I can tell you I was beyond satisfied on both those ends.

I love how each book begins with a certain state of undress with the characters, and we get a bit of pantless action here since Shayne first lays her eyes on hottie, Nate, at a Pantless Metro Ride. A sexy man wearing suspenders and dimples would have caught my attention, too. I loved the added element of Nate being younger and yet he’s not your typical hero that you’d read. This is not a manwhore or a serial dater; this is a man that knows what he wants and isn’t afraid to go after and show his sensitive side.

Oh, Dimples, who would’ve thought that such a sentimental sap was underneath those sexy suspenders? Should I start taking you to chick flicks and forcing you to read love stories?”
“Hey, there’s nothing wrong with a good love story.”

I simply adored Nate and the way he pursued Shayne, even while Shayne was doing her utmost best to resist him.

While the romance was fabulous, what I’ve come to love the most about this series is the friendship that the girls have. It’s like this perfect rom-com where you have genuine friendships. There’s no backstabbing or cattiness, I can’t praise it enough for that. I love the friendship that they have and their banter. It reminds me of movies like The Sweetest Thing, which is still my go-to when I need a pick-me-up.

Brooke Blaine certainly knows how to give good romance and she delivers it flawlessly. She also sets up quite a story for Paige and Richard aka “Dick”. I for one can’t wait for Pita and Dick.

If you’re looking for a light romance to put a smile on your face and a chest full of swoons, you need to be adding this one to your TBR like yesterday!

You could say Brooke Blaine was a book-a-holic from the time she knew how to read; she used to tell her mother that curling up with one at 4 a.m. before elementary school was her ‘quiet time.’ Not much has changed except for the espresso I.V. pump she now carries around and the size of her onesie pajamas.

She is the author of the international bestselling romantic comedy series, L.A. Liaisons (“Licked” and “Hooker), as well as Flash Point and The Desperate Man series. The latter, co-authored with Ella Frank, has scarred her conservative Southern family for life, bless their hearts.

If you’d like to get in touch with her, she’s easy to find – just keep an ear out for the Rick Astley ringtone that’s dominated her cell phone for ten years.

DON’T MISS THE FIRST BOOK IN THE L.A. LIAISONS SERIES!

Licked (L.A. Liaisons, #1)

Amazon US | Amazon UK

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Leave a Comment · Filed Under: All Reviews, Blog Tours, Contemporary Romance, Excerpts, Giveaways · Tagged With: Book Reviews: 4.5 stars, Brooke Blaine, humorous

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