Lana – Page 162

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.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Goodreads

Leave a Comment · Filed Under: Features · Tagged With: HookerLine, Kele Moon

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

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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

Author Interview with Kim Jones

March 11, 2016 by Lana · 1 Comment

Early last week I read an MC book called Sinner’s Creed, and now almost 2 weeks later, I still can’t seem to stop thinking about it. I read a lot of MC books and I can safely say I’m picky as all hell about them. I don’t like the fluff and I don’t like the Disney version of MC…and yes, you know what I’m talking about, admit it. Give me real, give me gritty, spare no detail and make me really feel it, you know? Well, ask and you shall receive because wow! Sinner’s Creed was unlike anything I’ve read before and boy did it make me feel.

You can read my full 4.5 star review HERE

You may have seen this book all over Goodreads and Facebook and it’s sparked many a discussion. As for me? I can tell you that yes, it’s different, but it’s also beautiful. No, it’s not quite the conventional MC you’re used to reading, but that’s the beauty of it. But you can read all about that in my review that’s linked above.

Today I’m super excited to have Kim Jones at DGR blog, answering my questions and talking all things Sinner’s Creed, Dirk, and the much talked about ending of the first installment in Sinner’s Creed!

DGR: Hi Kim! Thanks so much for being here at DGR blog today! I’m super excited to have you

KJ: So excited and honored to be here!

DGR: Let’s start simple. Can you introduce yourself to readers that may not be familiar with your books?

KJ: This is always the hardest question to answer! I’m not very interesting, lol.

I’m 30.

From south Mississippi.

No kids.

1 husband.

I write MC books.

My first series, Saving Dallas, is centered on the Devil’s Renegades–a 3 patch MC. My newest series, Sinner’s Creed, introduces the life of a 1%er, which is much darker and more dangerous than my other novels.

I’m addicted to Mountain Dew.

My favorite food is fried chicken.

I like puppies, kittens and babies—until they pee on me.

And I get sweaty and nervous at just the thought of sky diving.

See? I’m lame. And I could never, ever write a biography…obviously.

DGR: Now let’s dive right into it. Sinner’s Creed marks book 1 in your brand new Sinner’s Creed MC series. What can you tell us about it?

KJ: Unlike my other MC novels, this book is much darker. The story is centered around Dirk, National Nomad for the Sinner’s Creed MC. He’s troubled, dark, deadly and has only one purpose in life—to uphold the legacy of the SCMC. But life has other plans for Dirk, and soon he finds himself completely captivated by a girl he’s had a few encounters with—Saylor Samson. The book is about their journey together in search of love and hope. And of course, a whole lot of club action MC readers love.

DGR: I have to say, Sinner’s Creed is unlike any MC book I’ve read in a long while…and I’ve read my fair share of MC books. Was it your intent to write something different?

KJ: Absolutely. I’ve been writing MC since the beginning. I wanted something different. Something that would take readers beyond the traditional “hot biker falls in love with a girl” story line we’re so used to. I wanted something more in-depth. I feel this book does more than give you the love story you crave, it gives you an insight into the lengths a brother will go for his club.

DGR: Dirk is a very tortured hero and yet there’s something so incredibly endearing to him. Was it difficult being in his head considering the book is written in his POV?

KJ: At first, yes. I actually rewrote this book numerous times. I have just as many words in deleted scenes as I do in the book. But once I got the feel for him, it was easy. The transition from who he was to who he ended up being was the hardest. It’s tough going from one extreme to another.

DGR: What would you say was the hardest part about writing this book for you?

KJ: It probably sounds crazy, but it would have to be the sex scenes. It was difficult to incorporate them into such a strong, emotional story. At times, it didn’t even feel right. But you can’t have a story about a hot biker without a little bit of hot sex. 😉

DGR: And what about your favorite?

KJ: This too probably sounds nuts, but the final chapter. I know it’s unconventional, but it worked for me. And because it worked so well for my characters, it felt amazing.

DGR: Oh I loved the last chapter. It really SO Dirk and Saylor. I cried like a sap. It was beautiful.

If you had to describe Dirk to readers that haven’t met him yet, what would you say?

KJ: He’s…complicated. Dark, unforgiving, rugged, harsh and sexy as hell. Of course he isn’t always like that. Sometimes he’s sweet, caring, nurturing but still…sexy as hell.

DGR: How would you describe Saylor?

KJ: Innocent, sweet and very spiritual. But she’s got a fire about her. She’s not intimidated by Dirk and his harshness. She embraces it.

DGR: Admittedly, it’s been a long while where a book has affected me on such a visceral level and that ending definitely got me. Would you say an ending like that sets the tone for the rest of the series? Or do you plan something different for the other books?

KJ: No. This ending was for these particular characters only. Can we bold and italicize that? Lol! It affected me too, and I don’t think I’m up for another one quite like it. The rest of the series and characters will have their own ending. And much like Dirk and Saylor, it will be solely for them.

DGR: I have to agree that the ending fit the story and the characters. I couldn’t imagine it any other way. So on that subject, Sinner’s Creed has a very satisfying and realistic though not exactly conventional HEA. What can we expect from the rest of the series? Same?

KJ: I’ve already written Sinner’s Revenge that will come out in July. The HEA is THERE (I promise!), although the story is filled with plot twists, angst and a few OMG moments. With each book in this series I want it to be something different. But none will be like Sinner’s Creed.

DGR: You wrote an incredibly gritty story that pulls no punches and gives readers front row seats to the violent underbelly of MC. Was Dirk’s story difficult to write? He doesn’t exactly lead an easy life…

KJ: The MC part of the story wasn’t difficult at all. I have a very creative imagination. I was also inspired by several people who lived the MC lifestyle back in the 70s when outlaws lived up to their names. Of course times have changed and the club has evolved, but there was something I found intriguing about how things used to be. This story and every scene in it is fiction—none of it was inspired by true events. But from what I learned, I created something darker and grittier to hopefully pull people in.

DGR: What can we expect from the rest of the series?

KJ: A whole lot of surprise. Sinner’s Creed is just the beginning. Be ready for a lot of action, suspense and plot twists.

DGR: Shady will be getting his story next in Sinner’s Revenge. Any hints as to what we can look forward to with his books?

KJ: He’s so different from Dirk, and judging from reader’s response to SC, a character favorite already. I feel like Shady’s lightheartedness and humor contradicts Dirk’s seriousness and darkness. His book revolves around not only his position in the club, but a feisty young woman named Diem. It’s a love-hate story filled with a lot of laugh-out-loud moments and surprises. I’m really excited for his story, and I think it’s something readers will definitely enjoy and deserve. Especially after the emotional rollercoaster they experienced with Sinner’s Creed.

DGR: Did you have a mental picture in mind of any actor or model in mind as you wrote Dirk and Saylor?

KJ: Dirk’s look was inspired by one of my MC brothers. His sexy swagger and overall badass appearance spoke to me. Saylor was a figment of my imagination, until my friend said to me one day, “Hey, I found Saylor.” A photographer in my hometown had some images of this girl with thick, curly blond hair and green eyes posted on her page. It was surreal. I was like, “Omg… there she is!”

DGR: If you had to describe Sinner’s Creed in 5 words, what would they be?

KJ: Raw, emotional, dark, gritty, entertaining.

DGR: Anything you’d like to leave the readers with?

KJ: I wrote this book because I wanted to share with people my definition of brotherhood and true love. Sinner’s Creed is my sunset. My rainbow. My clear blue sky. It’s everything I wanted it to be. And I wouldn’t change it for the world. So for the readers who felt something, whether it was good or bad, thank you so much. With every comment, review and discussion, be it positive or negative, you make my dream come true all over again.

Don’t forget to check out the Sinner’s Creed series

SINNER’S CREED (available now)

GOODREADS | AMAZON

First in a new series—welcome to the Sinner’s Creed Motorcycle Club, where hard bodies and hot leather are made for each other, and love gone wrong is the most irresistible of all…

“I was the demon-possessed monster and she was the innocent, naïve angel. But none of that matters. She asks, I give and right now, I’ll kill anyone who tries to stop me from giving this woman what she wants—me.”

Dirk lives in the shadows—performing hits, maintaining order, and upholding the no-holds-barred legacy of the Sinner’s Creed Motorcycle Club. A nomad with a restless spirit and a cold heart, the open road is his world. One of the few constants in his life: his desire for the one woman who has consumed his thoughts for years.

Saylor Samson grew up far from the harshness of Dirk’s world. But ever since she was seventeen she’s been drawn to this dark and mysterious man who always seemed to show up just when she needed him.

After years of fated encounters, he’s back. This time he’s taking her. This time she’s ready for the ride. But just when the darkness in Dirk’s life begins to fade, Saylor reveals a secret that puts them both to the ultimate test. Now, Dirk has to make a decision: submit to his destiny with the MC, or choose his own.

SINNER’S REVENGE (releasing July 19, 2016)

GOODREADS | AMAZON

The sizzling second book featuring the Sinner’s Creed Motorcycle Club, bikers bent on riding chrome and meting out mayhem…

Shady has spent the last eight years of his life dedicated to the Sinner’s Creed Motorcycle Club. But after losing the man who was both his brother and his best friend, he has a new purpose—to avenge the death of the greatest nomad in Sinner’s Creed history.

His plan is flawless. His mission is simple: seek and destroy. There is no room for distractions—especially a distraction like Diem.

She’s infuriating. Demanding. Complicated. Impossible. And for some reason, Shady can’t stay away. But he only has space in his heart for one love: Sinner’s Creed. And the club always comes first. Always.

1 Comment · Filed Under: Author Spotlight & interview · Tagged With: Feature, Kim Jones

Spotlight, Review & Giveaway: Sparrow by @lj_shen

March 10, 2016 by Lana · Leave a Comment

Sparrow
Genre: Dark Romance
Author: L.J. Shen
Release Date: March 8, 2016

Troy Brennan

Every Southie in Boston knows that name. The son of a dead mobster. The heart-throb with steel-blue eyes. “The Fixer” who can make or break you in this city.

Oh, and my new husband.

Sparrow Raynes

That’s me. No one seemed to remember my name up until he barged into my life.
But then he caged me.
Kidnapped me.
And killed every chance I had to run away from the place where we grew up.
Put simply, Troy Brennan clipped my wings.

I have dreams, big ones, but I doubt he’ll ever let me chase them. I have no idea why he decided to take me as his wife. But I do know this: pissing off this man will not do me any good. At all.

Sparrow is a standalone, full-length novel. It contains graphic violence and adult situations some may find offensive.

AMAZON

“What do you do for a living?” I asked, more proof of how little I knew my husband.“Money,” he answered. “I make it.”

“What do you do for this money?” I pressed.

“I have a grocery store, a restaurant and a few private poker joints. Your dad is a bouncer in one of them. You know this shit.”

“The grocery store in Dorchester was losing money even before it opened. The poker joints are small and people always owe you money. That’s not how you pay for a Maserati and a penthouse the size of a football field.”

He arched an eyebrow, giving me a slow once-over with those frosty baby-blues. “She’s sharp, too.”

“There’s a lot you don’t know about me,” I croaked.

“There’s one thing I do know, and it keeps me from spilling my shit in your ears—you hate my guts, Red.”

“I don’t hate your guts.” It took all the effort in the world to say it. Because I did. I hated Troy Brennan for marrying me, caging me, owning me and chaining me to his grim life and destiny for no reason other than because he could.

“Anyone ever told you that you’re a terrible liar?” His nostrils flared, but he kept his cool. He jerked me closer, wrapping his hand around the nape of my neck, his breath falling on my face with a whisper. “You wear the truth on your sleeve.”

I tiptoed my hand up to his face, my heart picking up speed as I stroked his bruise. Ballsy move, but I was afraid of him. Afraid that his frustration with me would swell and that he’d send me off back to the bedroom.

Fear is a prison, and in prison you played by different rules to survive.

Troy’s eyes narrowed on mine skeptically. The epitome of ruthless, his lips turned into a challenging smirk. “Prove you don’t hate me.”

And I did. I leaned up and pressed my lips against his softly.

I kissed him.

I kissed the husband I hated so much. Against reason, against logic, against everything my heart was telling me.

I kissed him because I wanted something from him. A job. A chance at happiness. Some freedom.

He fisted the hem of my nightshirt and in two big steps shoved me to the nearest wall, slamming me against it. My back felt the impact, and I arched to soothe the pain trickling down my spine. It felt different than the usual ache of flesh hitting concrete. Made my body buzz with something unfamiliar. Desire bit at my insides, and just like that, I got lost in his touch again.

His lips searched for mine angrily as he took one of my thighs and wrapped it around his waist, lifting me off the floor, only him and the wall supporting my weight. His erection pulsated beneath the fabric of his suit pants, and I resisted the instinct to grind against him. I lifted my arms to touch his smooth hair, running my hands down his slick mane.

He was a cheater.

A criminal.

A murderer.

And I was…fascinated.

My father had sinned. But I was to be punished.

Sparrow Raynes grew up the daughter of a drunken father who happened to work for one of the most feared men in the Boston underground. But now that man is dead, and his son who’s known to be even more ruthless is to be her husband…and she has no idea why other than it’s been arranged and her father agreed to it. So she’ll do it, but she won’t like it. In her eyes it’ll be a marriage in name only because no way can she give her heart to the devil with the steel-blue eyes that’s known as The Fixer. He’s ruthless, he’s cold-blooded, but she refused to cower from him like even the most deadly of the deadly underground seem to…
Troy Brennan doesn’t hold any allegiances to anyone. His father may have been top dog in the Irish mob, but he’s dead now. There’s a reason Troy is know as The Fixer. He’s the one the rich and powerful call on to “fix” things. He’s infamous in the Boston underground for his ruthlessness and just as feared. But now he’s stuck marrying a girl he wants nothing to do with out of an obligation that she’s doesn’t know of. But the woman that he thought is a demure tomboy has a whole lot more spark to her that begin to slowly change the way he wants things to be…

Love and hate are similar in a lot of ways.”
“Is there a way to love you away from me?”
“No, but you could hate-fuck me all you want.”

Sparrow was exactly the kind of gritty anti-hero that I needed. L.J. Shen was not afraid to stick true to her characters and pulled no punches to do so, and I respect the hell out of her for this. Yes, Troy did some things that may not sit right with some readers, but for this reader, I loved to hate it. See I love when an author takes risks to stay true to the characters and that was definitely the case here. This is no insta lust, insta-love, or insta-anything. Troy and Sparrow’s connection formed over time and it felt authentic because of that. Considering how Troy is and where he came from, I wouldn’t have bought it any other way.

I’m saying if I can’t eat it, fuck it or kill it I have no interest in it.”

It was entertaining as hell to watch Sparrow really come into her own throughout the story. She has a backbone to begin with, but I just loved watching her give as good as she gets and she just gets stronger with the progression of the story. What was even better was that she wasn’t stupid. She doesn’t instigate or make silly decisions out of spite, she’s smart about it, which is a refreshing change of pace. She doesn’t want to like her husband, but watching him unknowingly get under her skin and grow on her was so entertaining to read. As for their chemistry? That was though the roof hot!

My monster, my capturer, my corrupter. My lover.

L.J. spared no detail to make her story gritty and real. It was action packed, super sexy, and filled with twists and turns. It was enough to keep me at the edge of my seat the whole time and eagerly turning the pages to see what will happen next. The romance was sizzling hot and together with the plot it all came together perfectly.

…the rumor is you like it kinky.”
“I like it interesting…
I like it delicious…
I like rough…
But most of all, I like it with you.”

My only minor quibble with the book was that it went a little much and too creative with the analogies at times. But that was such a minor thing compared to everything that I loved about it that I barely batted an eyelash at it.

The story was quick paced and kept me reading well into the night. I couldn’t seem to put it down until I finished. It’s not often when an author can surprise me with a hell of a twist but boy this one did! I loved every page of it.

This was my first book by this author, but I can say with utmost certainty that it will definitely not be my last. L.J. Shen clearly has a talent to write one hell of a punch with her romances and I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next. If you’re looking for an anti-hero read with a great heroine to boot and a believable romance, you need to be one-clicking this one right meow.

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

L.J. Shen is a former entertainment and music journalist and your average typical girl. She enjoys the simple things in life, like coffee, wine, traveling, spending time with her family and internet-stalking Chris Hemsworth.

She lives in Northern California with her husband, son and chubby cat and spends her days reading and her nights writing.

She is 29, lived in three continents, speaks three languages and thinks bras should be outlawed.

Feel free to contact her on Twitter and Facebook:

If you follow me on Facebook or Goodreads, then you already know how much I’ve been gushing about this book! I loved the absolute fuck out of it. I’m a reader that gravitates towards the dark and gritty and this one sure as hell brought it! I’m so excited to be able to spotlight this book on the blog today! But not only that, LJ Shen has been generous enough to donate a SIGNED PAPERBACK for the occasion! So I’m hosting a giveaway for that and one lucky US dirty bird will win this pretteh! Make sure to scroll to the bottom of post for the giveaway link 😉

ENTER HERE for a chance to win a SIGNED PAPERBACK of SPARROW!

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Hooker Line #3: ★Pet Peeves in Romance★

March 9, 2016 by Lana · 2 Comments

If there’s one thing that’s guaranteed when us hookers get together for a chat, is that it usually turns into a long ramble or rant…which lo and behold is exactly what happened with our pet peeves chat. But are you really that surprised about this? Of course you’re not. So I suggest you get some wine ready and hope you enjoy our recent rant/ramble session!

Lana: So? Pet peeves? Ready Hookers?
Alex: Yeah yeah, ready. Now or never.
Geri: Yeah I’m ready
Alex: I don’t have any pet peeves. I’m super easy. 😀
Geri: Hush
Lana: HA!
Alex: eh, ’tis true. (I’ve just read an HR so bear with me. I have remnants of old English)
Geri: You hang out with us so you definitely have pet peeves! I have so many pet peeves
Alex: And here we go: Hookers on RANT, ACTION!
Lana: Since we were on the subject earlier, I HATE covers that don’t match the book. Like the cover model is blonde, but the hero is a brunette
Geri: Yes, I Hate that. It ruins the story
Lana: Yes, I’m a picky bitch like that but dammit! Give me a nice visual! I demand satisfaction!
Alex: I don’t like it either. I need coherence.
Lana: It totally ruins the effect for me because I’ll have a mental image of the hideousness as I’m reading
Geri: I’d rather not have a person there at all on the cover.
Alex: Or a naked chest because the genre is romance. I’m tired of nekkid chests

Geri: I’m not
Alex: Of course you would say that, whore!
Geri: That’s me.
Lana: Umm…I can’t complain about nekkid chest. LOL! Though I remember Rebecca Zanetti’s Sin Brothers series had some hot covers and they weren’t even nekkid men chests. Fully clothed but still hot

Geri: So pet peeve one. You started it Lana. What else?
Lana: Here’s my most recent one: COMPARISONS to other books in the blurb as marketing! OMG! Drive me batty!
Alex: I hate it when authors use this to advertise their book.
Lana: You know what I’m talking about? When the blurb for the book will say, if you’re a fan of this author, or if you liked this book, this is similar to so and so book. Because they NEVER ARE! Like EVER
Geri: Yes, I know what you mean
Alex: Readers using this, I’m okay with it. But from authors or publishers? Hmm. no.
Geri: Exactly. Because readers are talking about their experience. From publishers, it gives readers the wrong expectations
Lana: Like why would you do that? Then I’m FORCED to compare, and I’ll usually find it lacking. No. Just no. Stop it right now!
Geri: Or use other characters to market books “If you love Christian Grey…” Ha! Sorry but I don’t.
Alex: But see, Geri, it helped you NOT to pick the book!
Lana: It’s like hey! Hey you! You ever been to Bahamas? Well, come on down to Bumfuck, Nowhere. We have a beach too. No, I will not go to Bumfuck, Nowhere. You fuck off with that!
Geri: If they have free massage on Bumfuck, I’d go.
Lana: You’re a cheap whore, that’s why
Alex: And Geri, over a massage? Damn, hooker you are TOO easy. Cheap whore indeed
Geri: Hey! Don’t rain on my game. Plus, I’d kill for a massage right now.
Lana: Sometimes I totally fall for it, too. Like I recently read a book that was compared to Corrupt. I was like, hell yeah! Bring on that fuckery! And then I read it and thought, WTF IS this fuckery?

*cries*
Alex: But Corrupt was a WTF is this fuckery kind of books. But that’s just me.
Lana: No one asked you, Alex! LOL! You just don’t like dark
Alex: I do like dark. Fan of horror. But dark romance often rhymes with stupid plot and stupid characters.
Lana: *la la la* I can’t hear you! There IS a line. There’s good Dark Romance and then there’s the poor imitation with gratuitous violence and unnecessary deaths.
Geri: But it’s so in the rage now. Like just throw in rape and murder and voila: dark romance.
Alex: Aren’t all dark romance books like that Lana?
Lana: Shut it! I like the dark romance dammit!Geri: Wait, are we in Bumfuck now?
Lana: We digressed
Geri: Because Alex
Lana: LOL
Alex: Always blame the Frenchy.

Alex: One of my worst pet peeves ever, is bad translation in books.
Lana: YES! SO MUCH YES!
Google translate is NOT a reliable source for the love of my sanity! Quit that!
Alex: Author : Google translate is bad for you. So verra bad. I can’t even recall the number of times I’ve Dnf’d books because of it.
Lana: I remember trying to read a book with a Russian heroine once, and she’s yelling at the hero (what the author thought was) “I don’t want to sleep with you”
But what she actually said was, “I don’t want to NAP with you”
Myeah….I DNF’d right around there
Geri: Lana, mafia books are notorious for wrong translations
Alex: If it’s a language I understand, then you can be sure if it’s badly translated, the MCs are going to lose all credit.
Geri: It’s the lazy way. Seriously.
Alex: I think authors use Google translate as the easy way. There are so many forums out there, where you can ask a REAL person. There’s a reader community.
Lana: Post a FB update asking FFS
Alex: Some even don’t care, I’m sure. “Oh, my readers are Americans, they won’t notice if it’s badly translated”
Lana: I truly don’t get it
Alex: I hate they would assume people are idiots.
Lana: Why take a language and completely butcher it? It’s insulting to the readers that speak the language IMO
Alex: it’s insulting to ALL the readers, in my opinion. Lack of research.Lana: And I’ve read some BAD translations.
Like one book meant had this: “My name is (xxx), this is my fiancée, and you’re about to die”
The actual translation was: “I (xxx), this is my groom (referring to a female), you has dead.” No joke. I will never forget it so long as I live. I actually CRINGED while reading that.
Alex: LOL LANA
Geri: There is a way to do it without even translating everything. But it takes skill really. Some just put foreign words here and there to make their writing “authentic”. But if it’s all wrong…
Alex: Well, in that DARK ROMANCE BOOK… that I won’t name of course, the guy was a sex seller, he had a living at home slave… you know what book I’m talking about…
And the guy, supposedly from an aristocrat French family, all mighty, refined etc… was talking French like a 4 years old
Geri: OMG
Alex: And that’s even insulting to all 4 years old French kids. Character therefore looked like a retarded guy to me. I DNF’d the book. It was a trilogy.
Lana: Whoops? Pretty sure I loved that one LOL! Good thing I only speak Russian ahahaha
Geri: It’s very off putting
Lana: I think the only ones that EVER pulled off Russian correctly was Lexi Blake and Shayla Black
Geri: Which books?
Lana: It was their Perfect Gentlemen series. They actually took the time to use ACTUAL Cyrillic and not the English sounding version of it. I wanted to take a bow to them when I read that, lol!
Alex: Some authors really do proper research.
Take Diana Gabaldon. Perfect translations. But then, either you want to make it look right, or you just don’t care.
Geri: It takes a lot of effort. Not all are willing though

Alex: Ok, NEXT! What really can drive me nuts is…. Manufactured angst. Tension.
Geri: Explain or give us an example
Alex: When a whole book is based on a stupid misunderstanding. Hate this.
Lana: UGH. YES
Geri: Yes
Lana: I’m just going to make the characters chase their tails up until 95% because….ANGST
Alex: In real life, it would be cleared out in seconds. But in books it serves as a PLOT and goes on for 300 pages. WHY?
Geri: And if they had talk it could have been solved but no. Let’s be dense and run away all the time. And no one wants to talk about it. But everyone just assumes things
Alex: The characters would spend time talking about stupid shit like the brand of their shoes, their car etc… (another pet peeve) and not take the time to talk about A HUGE secret that obviously is a problem. I don’t get it
Lana: Or it’s the same issue that gets brought up over and over and over and over. Enough already! I’ve already chewed it, swallowed, and defecating that issue as we speak. DROP IT
Alex: You and poop lately, LOL!
Lana: what? I’m just saying LOL
Geri: I hate angst where there’s this big secret. And everybody refers to it but no one talks about it.
Alex: I don’t get it.

Alex: And this leads me to LOVE TRIANGLES. “Everyone, take a deep breath! There is a fucking lot to say.”
Geri: Booo
Lana: *shudders* don’t say those words! It’s like Voldemort or Rumpelstiltskin. *covers ears*
Alex: Resulting of unspoken truths, misunderstandings: Love Triangles! Yay!
Geri: I love triangles… Kidding!
Alex: What really bugs me out is the heroine in that configuration. Gah! Either she looks like a greedy whore for stringing along 2 guys
Geri: What I hate more are the resolutions rather than the triangle itself.
Lana: I hates love triangles with the fire of the worst kind of venereal disease. Honest to gawd. I can’t. I just can’t.
Geri: I avoid them.
Lana: And the chick is almost always all wishy washy and leading both men on because she doesn’t want to hurt them. The whore!
Geri: And she has to be confused. Because it’s the rule, right?
Lana: *flashback to Thoughtless*
*Rocks self in corner*
Alex: Shhhh Thoughtless, lol
Lana: God that book drove me to drink. Put me off Love Triangles for YEARS after.
Geri: No but see she has to love the asshole, it’s the rule
Lana: Or the easy fix where all of a sudden one of the men turns out to be an asshole….or better yet, gets killed off.Alex: “I can’t choose, I love them both. Oh never mind, the other one was an asshole from the start but I didn’t realize it soon enough”
Geri: The getting killed off part pisses me off
Alex: The parameters are always the same. ALWAYS
Geri: Taking Chances anyone?
Lana: OMG OMG OMG! Don’t even say that title out loud
Alex: I haven’t read that one. *feels blessed*
Geri: Or the other series that everybody hates. Well not hate but the ending ruined it
Lana: YES. I refuse to read it. So glad I waited for third book to be out so I knew to avoid altogether.
Geri: I know friends who still rage about the ending after all these years
Lana: I would have gone homicidal
Geri: Shout out to Lisa Jayne and Christy! They were traumatized
Lana: AHAHAHAHA! Poor Lisa Jayne. She was scarred for life
Alex: Which books?
Geri:The Erin Noelle one, I think.

Alex: What about specific.. er.. pet peeves…. You know… Bedroom Pet Peeves.
Geri: Special snowflakes. Not bedroom but, can we do away with Mary Sues already?
Lana: OMG the special snowflakes! Gag meGeri: I like them but not every freaking book has to have this type of heroine
My feelings for this are all over the place!
Lana: and ALL of them have the golden poosy! Have you noticed this?
Alex: The golden pussy is a requirement. The best they’ve ever had. Even manwhores with a mile long tallyGeri: The heroine has to be clueless about the hero or else she’d be like other girls. Other girls being the “sluts”. Which is just annoying.
Lana: omg the slut shaming. Makes me stabby! STABBY!
Geri: And the heroine of course had to be clueless and push the hero away because God forbid that she likes the hero already and wants him.

Lana: Can we talk about that double standard for a second here? Why is the hero always manwhoring around and the heroine is always cooling her ovaries in the land of zero cocks. Why?
Geri: Because that would make her like the “other girls”. Duh.
Alex: Yeah, we need Hooker books. With original hookers. Own your pussies, ladies!
Geri: It’s leading up to that
Lana: Like look here, hooker! You probably got cobwebs at this point. At least air that shit out a little. Get a little boob action. Go on a date! LOOK at a penis. You don’t have to touch it or anything.

Alex: Not even a sex toy because that would still be having a sexual life
Geri: I hate it because the hero can fuck anyone he likes and the heroine has to pine away. PINE!!
Alex: Maybe the clueless heroine has remnants over the whole romance genre.
Lana: So this asshole left me 12 years ago, I’m just gonna go celibate because….reasons. Oh look! He’s back! *takes ovaries out of isolation*
Geri: I hate it. Like do men really prefer women like that? The clueless ones?
Lana: I’m not saying have the heroine shutting it up around town but c’mon!
What’s that? You slept with another man during your 2 year break up with the hero? You WHORE! Are we back in the 60s or some shit? There’s nothing wrong with a healthy sex life. Quit with the slut shaming. It’s seriously perpetuating a stereotype.
Alex: At this point it’s just a matter of taking vows to god and entering a conventBut let’s get back to clueless kind of heroines. You know… The virgins.
Lana: Ah yes. The clueless special snowflakes
Alex: I could understand a Historical with a clueless virgin… But a contemporary with a clueless virgin? HOW? You no have Internet? Google that shit, lady!Geri: I don’t mind virgins. As long as her motivation for staying one isn’t because she’s pining for the hero.
Lana: I DO. I’m so over the freaking virgins. Unless we need to do a virgin sacrifice for the sake of a good book, lay off the virgins!
Geri: And being a virgin shouldn’t make her special. Or more worthy of the hero’s affection. That’s my objection to Virgin heroine storyline. It’s the hero’s reaction to it. Like she’s somehow special because she’s a Virgin. Tthey shouldn’t be prized above other girls because of their virginity.
Alex: well of course the hero would be pleased to conquer a virgin territory. Pfff
I don’t mind the virgins per se, just the clueless ones.
Lana: I don’t mind them in YA or NA, so long as they’re not special snowflakes
Geri: LOL!

Alex: But the clueless ones in contemporary storylines, “ooooh why is your male sword so hard? And why do my “nether” regions feel so damp right now?” Is it still possible for a woman or a teenager even to not KNOW how the human body.
Lana: Nope. We don’t have health class.
Geri: Not possible. Unless you live in Timbuktu. No offense to Timbuktuians
Lana: Can you find a 27-year-old virgin? No seriously? I understand if this was YA or even NA. But when we’re talking past the age of 25? Really?
Geri: I can.
Alex: I think we can, Lana, virgins age 25 and more. it’s not what is bothering me. They can be virgins, but don’t act like you’re out of some Historical Romance, or you’ve been sheltered from boys your whole life!
Geri: Or they don’t know how we make babies?
Lana: Look, I was traumatized for life after that shit. We watched a baby born “au naturel.” I had nightmares for months after. I got cold sweat flashbacks to that video when I was pregnant LOL
Alex: I closed my eyes the whole time, lol. And I was terrorized I would have to pop my kid out years later. Thank fuck for C-sections.

Lana: oh and then the switch is flipped and they go from virgin to sex pro it 3 thrusts flat!
all of a sudden it’s “I’m gonna swallow” and “bring on the anal”.I ask you? Who swallows on their first time?!
Geri: Special snowflakes with special swallowing powers?
Alex: When virgins are made sex professionals in one night. Seriously.
Lana: I mean, let’s be real. If the guy that took my v-card wanted anal afterwards, I would have told him to go poke a pencil sized hole in a wall and go to townAlex: LOL! Or worse even, when they get 10 orgasms on their first night. bitches
Geri: 10 orgasms is nothing.
Alex: Wait you’ve read MORE?
Geri: I read one book where the heroine came 12 times. In one night.
Alex: But was she a virgin?
Lana: 12?! I think my vagina just clenched in sympathy.
Alex: It clenched because you’re a whore!
Lana: Could she even walk the next day?

Geri: She wasn’t a virgin but she’s been on ice I think. But seriously!
Lana: Ha! She’d need the ice AFTER.
Geri: That calls for an emergency room visit.
Lana: I mean the chafing! The chafing! ouchiesAlex: Oooh ohh another thing in bed that annoys me in romance books. THE PILL TALK or the I’m clean she’s clean convos. And of course they would have health reports handy. Like I’ve got mine in my purse every time I’m going out for drinks. You never know, right?
Geri: But you have to trust him. He always uses a condom with other girls…*roll eyes so hard*
I like how Linda Howard does it. The pill talk I mean.
Alex: How does Linda Howard does it?
Geri: They have the talk prior to even being in bed. Because her characters are mature and talk about it.
Alex: That would make sense… but for the spontaneous moments?
Geri: The heroine always mostly steps back and take control.
Lana: YES. I think I see a LH re-read in my future.
Alex: I mean I get it, it’s part of sex life, but handing out health reports just because the MCs don’t want to use a condom on a casual fuck? Hmm that’s not safe sex anymore. I don’t see the point. You don’t know the guy, make him wear a condom.Lana: here’s a big one for me: The Magic Peen.
Alex: hey the magic peen just makes the expression “fuck some sense into someone” more real
Geri: “Anything longer than 8 inches is strictly for show and tell”
Alex: lol, love that quote Geri.
Lana: Come one, come all! Have emotional issues? Stick it in! BAM! Cured!
Have psychological issues? Definitely stick it in! BAM! REALLY cured!
Have sexual issues? Bitch, you’re seriously overdo for the sticking.
Alex: Reminds me of a certain Lord of the Manor, Lana.
Lana: AHAHAHAHAHA! *shudders*
Alex: *Sigh* Lana, most of my romance reads are still like that.
Geri: The magic peen and the magic pussy take your pick.Alex: I don’t get it why some authors feel the need to over exaggerate everything. I’m fine with “normal” sex lives. Normal sex is good.
Geri: I get that it’s fantasy but it’s overkill.
And it ends up not being sexy.
Can you imagine how she must have walked after that 12 orgasms?
Alex: Don’t even get me started on dick sizes. Why mention it at all? If it doesn’t have something to do with the story or a character’s personality. I don’t need to know he’s 10 inches long.Lana: You don’t like Godzilla cock, Alex? But why?
Alex: Because I’m not a whore like you. Baby steps.
Lana: LMAO!
Geri: I keep thinking about how the hero and heroine go at it without worrying about the wet spot on the bed.
Alex: Nooo because the guy always gets back from bathroom with a wet and warm cloth and takes care of the leak. He does it because he cares. “romance me you big guy with your warm and wet cloth”.
Geri: LOL *cries*
Alex: Or he wears condoms but only because they forgot the “I’m clean / she’s clean” convo.
Geri: Coz my husband and I just resort to rock, paper, scissors about who gets to sleep on the wet spot. What? No one does this? Just us then …
Alex: LMAO *Dying*
Actually yeah, I make Swissman change the sheets, I can’t with the wet spot.
Arguing about it even. He says : “Your fault, you couldn’t keep it in”
Geri: Ahaha! We’re too lazy!
Alex: I say : “Your fault you have to get it out.” So… yeeah. Errr.
Geri: *Dies* LOL!
My mission is to try to find a book where the hero and heroine argues to gets to sleep over the wet spot
Alex: LMAO. Kristen Ashley mentioned the wet spot in Sebring I think… or was it Walk Through Fire? But they didn’t really argue about it.

Lana: Subject change. Here’s a huge pet peeve… I can’t with emotional issues and sex.
Geri: Why? Tell me and our followers.
Lana: I read a book where the heroine had some serious issues. Like sexual abuse past… But what she was really concerned about was being able to have sex. Because once she had good sex? Issues gone. I mean…for reals?Geri: Wait wait. I’ve loved books where the heroine wanted to have orgasms and the hero was able I give it to her
Lana: see, but that’s different,
Geri: I’ve enjoyed them but the heroines actually have a life. And they’re not consumed by it
Lana: I’m talking about REAL emotional/mental health issues.
Geri: I think I know what you’re talking about.
Lana: I like the concept of the heroine thinking that the hero is the best in bed of all that’s she’s had. But please don’t let it be the cure for deeper issues. Please! Magic Peen cure. *shudders*
Alex: It also sends a wrong message to some readers.
Lana: I mean not having an orgasm is different, you know? I didn’t have one till I met my husband. Come to think of it, that may be why I married him
Geri: Good on you.
Alex : Revelations night. Happening right here, Ladies!
Lana: LOL!
during sex, I mean. Not like…at all
Geri: LOL!
Lana: Dude, I’d be homicidal if I didn’t have one at all!
Geri: …
Alex: …
Lana: oh you know what I mean!
Alex: Congrats to your man, Lana!

Geri: Which leads us to another pet peeve: mental issues.
Alex: uh oh…
Geri: Mental issues that just gets cured because reasons. Or the characters don’t believe in therapy
Alex: Hmm don’t remember ever reading those.
Geri: I hate using mental illness as a plot device. It’s my pet peeve.
Lana: ah yes. The mental issues that most often get glossed over.
Geri: I get that in real life stuff like that happens but respect it enough to actually do something about it. Don’t gloss it over.
Alex: I only read the Cara McKenna one…I think.
Geri: But that’s different since they both worked there although they do have issues.
Alex: Oh you mean they use it as a plot, like it’s the focus of the book then they get rid of it in the name of true love or good fuck with magic peen? There are books like that?
Geri: Like for example, there’s a very popular book that the hero is bipolar. I’m gonna get heat for this but Real by Katy Evans.
Alex: Oooohh I’ve read this one. Indeed, I know exactly what you mean.
Geri: I’m sorry but you do not treat mental illness like that. I know I will get a lot of hate for this because so many people loved that book but it’s a great example of mental illness being cured by the magic pussy.
Lana: Agreed. I liked that book, but that part really made me cringe. It feels like you’re glossing over a major issue.
Geri: It’s very problematic because he rejected therapy and medicine because he doesn’t want to poison his body. Like what???
Lana: And so anyone WITH those issues may feel like they’re seriously screwed up if they don’t deal with it in the same blasé matter, know what I mean?
Geri: Exactly Lana.
Alex: Especially on subjects like these, Lana.
Lana: I read a book with bipolar heroine and it was written in such a blasé and flippant way, it was unreal.
Like “yeah, I tried to kill myself, but such is life.” Really? I mean, c’mon! *headdesk*
Geri: I personally know people with these issues and it’s just so wrong to be treated in such a blasé manner. It’s also irresponsible.

Alex: Moving on from the heavy subjects with a rather… strange pet peeve of mine…
Geri: Let’s hear it.
Alex: The over achingly sweet HEA… (don’t shoot) Or even the epilogue part.
Geri: Noooooooo! Take it back!
Alex: LOL
Geri: I love sweet HEA.
Lana: Dude. I do, too.
Alex: I truly prefer HFN endings
Geri: I’m okay with HFN. But I don’t seek them out!
Alex: I don’t need to know they’re going to be married have 3 kids and a dog…. I don’t really, and sometimes it’s just so overdone.
Geri: Oh yea some are overkill.
Alex: Now I did enjoy some HEA… (I have Kristen Ashley in mind.) but mostly I don’t care for them
Lana: Nothing beats a KA epilogue. NOTHING.
Geri: Agreed. There’s something about them.
Lana: I don’t care if they’re filled with cheese. I cry like a baby and love every sentence. You’re just a cynical whore, Alex LMAO!
Geri: Lol, that she is.
Alex: Hey, fuck off now, I said I did enjoy KA ones.
Lana: But agreed, it definitely CAN be overdone.
Alex: Okay so basically we all just agreed but Alex is a cynical whore. I see how it is with you Hookers. Blame it on the Frenchie. AGAIN.

Lana: Dating for two months? It’s twu wuv! Let’s get married and I’ll knock you up. NO
Alex: You know Lana, it annoys me especially in insta-love stories.
Lana: Insta-love and too quick relationships with that sort of HEA is too much.
Geri: Now non HEA on the other hand… Can fuck off.
Lana: Meh. I met my quota of one non-HEA book for the year. Otherwise, nope. nope. nope. HELL NOPE
Alex: Non-HEA I don’t mind that much. Really if the story was good… It has romance in it. I can live with it.
Lana: I get what you mean, Alex. I totally agree with you on that.
Geri: I have read too many books like that in the past. I don’t like it when they’re categorized as romance. Fiction or general fiction, fine but romance?
Lana: Cara McKenna handles it the best. I love her HFNs
Geri: I agree. She writes the best HFNs.
Alex: Cara McKenna is my drug of choice. l Love her stories because of this, Lana. Her stories seem so real. The HFN helps a lot.
Alex: Hmm mmm, Geri needs her sweet HEA! 😉
Geri: I do. Life is depressing enough as it is.

Alex: What about flowery wording to describe human anatomy in romance?
What was the worst you’ve ever read?
Geri: Hate. It doesn’t even have to be describing an anatomy I just hate purple prose. With a passion
Alex: Purple prose, you mean the constant analogies / poetry to describe everything?
Geri: Yes. Purple prose in general drive me insane. Like describing the rain would take one chapter instead of one sentence. Or the color of the leaves.
Alex: And genitals analogies can really make me laugh sometimes. I ‘m okay with calling it what it is. Authors, don’t get too creative about this, please.
Geri: Agree.
Alex: one that truly put me off once was the “Man Meat” to describe a dick.
Lana: Meat sword doesn’t do it for you?Alex: Anything “meat” to describe a cock is a turn off.
Geri: Yes, and so disrespectful to vegetarians and vegans everywhere
Alex: LMAO!
Geri: I mean seriously. What if your reader is a vegan? You just got DNF’d!
Alex: Only time they would eat meat though. It’s a fantasy somehow, no?
Geri: But it’s soo…*shudders*
Alex: This reminds me an author compared a dick to an eggplant once. So… yeah.
Geri: LOL!
Alex: Put me off eating eggplants ever again.
Lana: AHAHAHAHA *cringes* and on that note…. This is getting quite lengthy.
Alex: YOU would say that. Whore.
Lana: AHAHAHA ! Quit that! lol
Geri: But in all seriousness. Sometimes I still enjoy books with a lot of pet peeves
Lana: that’s very true. It all depends how it’s pulled off.
Geri: I think it has to do with the skill of the author.
Alex: I can overlook some. I’m not THAT picky
Lana: *checks outside for flying pigs*
Alex: shut up. I’m not. I have exigencies while you are just easy. But then you are a whore so…
Geri: Sometimes it’s also my mood.
Alex: Mood plays a huge part on what I can take or not.
Geri: I get into a mood where I hates everythings.
Lana: Total mood reader here.
Alex: So many parameters. Authors sure can’t please everyone.
Geri: They can’t. I know there are a lot of readers out there who would love every single pet peeve we talked about.
And that perfectly fine. We’re all different.
Alex: Especially Lana. Right?
Lana: *glares*

2 Comments · Filed Under: Features · Tagged With: Feature, HookerLine

Release Blitz: ★Porn Star★ by Laurelin Paige & Sierra Simone

March 8, 2016 by Lana ·

Porn Star by Laurelin Paige and Sierra Simone
Genre: Erotic Romance
Release Date: March 8^th

You know me.

Come on, you know you do.

Maybe you pretend you don’t. Maybe you clear your browser history religiously. Maybe you pretend to be aghast whenever someone even mentions the word porn in your presence.

But the truth is that you do know me.

Everybody knows Logan O’Toole, world famous porn star.

Except then Devi Dare pops into my world, and pretty soon I’m doing things that aren’t like me—like texting her with flirty banter and creating an entire web porn series just so I can get to star in her bed. Again. And again.

With Devi, my entire universe shifts, and the more time I spend with her, the more I realize that Logan O’Toole isn’t the guy I thought he was.

So maybe I’m not the guy you thought I was either.

Amazon / iBooks / B&N / Kobo

I spin around and throw my phone as hard as I can into the pool.
It lands with a small splash, sinking like a brushed-aluminum stone straight to the bottom. My momentary satisfaction is eclipsed by immense regret, because I just got that phone a few weeks ago. Fuck it, I can get a new one tomorrow. If that’s the price I have to pay to keep myself separate from Raven, then so be it.I take a few healthy chugs of the Laphroaig.“I hope you’ve got a good warranty,” a cheerful voice says from next to me. Even over the smoky scent of the whisky, I smell her. Cinnamon and sunshine.I inelegantly swallow the Scotch still in my mouth, turning to face the person next to me. “Devi.”

She flashes me her sunny grin, and then returns the greeting by playfully bumping her shoulder against my arm. Heat flares across my bicep, emanating from the place where our bare skin touched, and the heat slowly migrates towards my chest, independent of the blood now pumping to my groin.

I am suddenly very aware of the fact that Devi and I have never been alone. Strange, given that we’ve given each other orgasms, but Raven’s Real Playdates was the only time we’ve worked together, and there are so many people on a porn set that it’s impossible to feel any sense of alone-ness, even when you’re staring them in the eyes while they suck you off. And even though we’ve seen each other at parties and events since then, we’ve only ever said hi or how are you or where’s the drinks? Not exactly the basis for a deep understanding of one another.

So I should probably explain why I just chucked a brand new phone into the water, and also maybe not reveal the fact that I have a massive crush on her.

I try to muster the casual, flirty guy I was earlier tonight. “Devi, I…”

I jack off to you almost every day.

“…I, uh, didn’t know anyone else was out here. Or I wouldn’t have, you know.” I mime throwing the phone.

She laughs and then bends down to unfasten her leather heel. “If it’s in a good case, it might still be okay,” she says. I watch, transfixed, as she kicks off both shoes, shimmies out of her shorts, and then walks to the edge of the pool. She’s wearing what legally might qualify as underwear, but only just barely.

Have I mentioned Devi Dare’s ass? Because I should. She has one of the best asses known to mankind. Plump and thick and juicy, the kind of ass that invites biting and squeezing, and the way it slopes out from her small waist is pure poetry. And those legs—despite the obvious muscles in her calves and thighs, they still move as she walks, like her ass does, and there’s something so healthy about it, so tantalizing about her body with its wide hips and slightly soft stomach and full breasts. She’s sexy in such a visceral, biological way, the kind of way that says you want to make babies with me. My cock lengthens as I watch her, tens of thousands of years of evolution telling me to haul her off and impregnate her.

She turns, hands on her hips. “Are you going to join me?”

“I was just enjoying the view,” I say, and it comes out a little too raspy, a little too honest, but then I follow it up with a weak grin and then she laughs and jumps into the pool. With a final gulp of whisky, I put the cork in the bottle and then fling myself in after her, clothes, shoes and all.

The water is cool and it’s the best kind of contrast to the dry heat of the night and the warmth of the Scotch in my stomach, and the new kind of warmth that’s agitating in my chest, something frictive and thrilling and pressing up against my anger and my broken heart. Something that started the moment Devi brushed up against my arm.

I jumped into the deep end, and so it’s a few beats before my feet press flat against the bottom and I can push myself back up. I break the surface, sputtering, and awkwardly try to swim over to Devi with one hand still clenched around my Scotch bottle. She treads water as steadily and gracefully as a water nymph, her long hair floating around her shoulders and her gold top drifting away from her skin, giving me just the barest glimpse of one nipple, dark rose and peaked into a tight furl. Water droplets cling to the thick fringe of her eyelashes.

“You’re not very good at swimming,” she points out as I make my way closer.

“Never liked it much,” I say, swimming past her and moving to where my feet can touch. With a sigh of relief, I set my feet down, examine the Scotch bottle to make sure no pool water leaked in, and then I take a long drink. I’m on my way to being drunk, but I’m intent on sealing the deal. What can I say? I’m a finisher.

Devi drifts up next to me, holding something in her hand. It takes me a minute to realize that it’s my phone, the entire reason we spontaneously jumped into the pool in the first place. And somehow, miraculously, the pricey case the Apple Store girl talked me into buying has saved the phone. The screen still glows with my unwritten text message.

Somehow, between the pool and the Scotch and Devi Dare with no pants on, I’ve lost the urge to talk to Raven. I take the phone and toss it carelessly onto the concrete and then turn back to Devi.

“You, on the other hand, seem like quite the swimmer,” I say with a smile, offering her the Scotch. She takes it and raises the bottle to her lips.

“I was raised in California, you know,” she says and then takes a drink.

“Well, so was I. But my parents are Boston transplants, so I guess they never saw swimming as a priority for me.”

She hands the bottle back to me. “I think I had floaties before I had a bicycle. My parents are very, uh…” She searches for the right words. “Natural people. They think it’s important to be periodically cleansed of negative energy, and flowing water is one of the best ways to do that. So we went swimming at least once a week.”

I can see the faintest blush coloring the apples of her cheeks, as if she’s embarrassed of what her parents believe. And then I wonder if she’s embarrassed because she believes it a little too.

God, that blush is so sexy. I want to lick it right off her face. And then pin her down and lick her everywhere.

She tilts her head to the sky. “You can see Cassiopeia tonight.”

I look up, following her gaze, but I see nothing other than the golden glow hovering above the city and a smattering of faint, twinkling stars. “Is Cassiopeia a constellation?” I venture.

She laughs and nods, and then she reaches over and takes my head in her hands. My pulse thrums, that warmth in my chest explodes into flames, and I want her to kiss me kiss me kiss me, but before I can turn my head to her, she trains my face to the sky, facing the right direction this time.

“Do you see it?” she asks. Her mouth is close to my neck, and I wonder what it would feel like if she bit me there. “It looks like a letter M.” She traces the shape of it with her fingers, until finally I see it–an underwhelming handful of tired stars.

“You can’t see it this far into the city sometimes,” she continues.

“Cassiopeia sounds like a porn name,” I say frankly and she laughs again.

“Ptolemy named it.”

I give her a blank look. I got pretty good grades in school, but it’s been more than ten years since graduation, and anything not intimately related to film or the kind of math I need to run my business has been filtered out of my brain.

“Ptolemy was a Greek astronomer,” she explains, giving me an amused glance. “He named it after a famous queen in Greek mythology. She was so beautiful and vain and boastful that she brought the wrath of Poseidon down on her kingdom.”

Beautiful, vain, boastful. My mind swerves back to Raven, possibly still in this very house, possibly still being screwed with that evil smile on her face. Where is Poseidon when you need him?

No.

No, I won’t let Raven crowd into my happy, drunk moment with Devi and the Scotch. I speak as much to drive away thoughts of my ex as to comment on Devi’s astronomy knowledge. “You know a lot about this shit,” I tell her, turning my eyes back to her face completely.

And now she really blushes. “I really like astronomy. Stars and galaxies and stuff. It makes life feel so…big…you know?”

The thing is, I do know. That big feeling, I mean. I get it every time I watch an amazing film, every time I imagine my own films with just the right setting and just the right cinematography and just the right score.

“I’ve never met a performer who’s told me anything like that,” I say. And it’s true. Not once have I been around another adult film star and had them confess a purely impractical fascination. A call toward something that makes them feel like life is magical.

She blinks, and the way her long, thick eyelashes brush against her wet cheeks is arresting. “Really?”

“Really. Devi Dare, I do believe you are my first.”

Laurelin Paige is the NY Times and USA Today Bestselling Author of the Fixed Trilogy. She’s a sucker for a good romance and gets giddy anytime there’s kissing, much to the embarrassment of her three daughters.

Sierra Simone is a USA Today Bestselling former librarian (who spent too much time reading romance novels at the information desk.) She lives with her husband and family in Kansas City

Connect with the Authors:

Laurelin Paige

Facebook / Twitter / Amazon / Goodreads / Instagram / Website

Sierra Simone

Facebook / Twitter / Amazon / Goodreads / Instagram / Website

· Filed Under: Excerpts · Tagged With: New Release

New Release & Review: ★Tyrant★ by Nashoda Rose

March 7, 2016 by Lana · Leave a Comment

TYRANT
Series: Scars of the Wraiths #2
Genre: Paranormal Romance with erotic elements
Author: Nashoda Rose
Release Date: March 7, 2016

“I don’t do nice. Period.” -Kilter (nickname: Off-Kilter)

Kilter is crass, reckless and stubborn. He has alienated everyone—just the way he likes it. Until the day he meets Rayne and emotions he buried long ago reawaken.

“I was nothing but a science experiment.” -Rayne

Rayne has been locked away and used for research ever since she was a child. The abuse caused her to withdraw into a tomb of numbness where she’s found a safe place to hide. But her safe place isn’t safe at all, it’s slowly killing her.
When Kilter rescues her and she is unexpectedly drawn to his raw honesty, Rayne must decide whether to trust him and fight for what she can’t see or drown into the depths of darkness.

For some Scars, it’s the story of healing and redemption, for others it’s the beginning of a tortured existence. Which will it be for Kilter and Rayne?

A band of fierce warriors walk in the shadows of the human world with capabilities derived from the senses: Trackers, Sounders, Healers, Tasters, Visionaries and the rare Reflectors. They are known as the ‘Scars.

*Stygian must be read first. 18+

Scars of the Wraiths Series
Stygian (Scars of the Wraiths, Book 1)
Tyrant (Scars of the Wraiths, Book 2)
Take (Scars of the Wraiths, standalone)
Credo (Scars of the Wraiths, Book 3) (coming 2016)

AMAZON | iBOOKS

My emotions had been sealed, hidden and buried in a tomb for years. I was numb; I liked being numb, but Kilter dug up the top and ripped off the lid, and now my emotions were tearing through my veins like missiles.

I’m a huge Nashoda Rose fan. Whatever this woman writes, I’ll read. But there’s just something about her Scars of the Wraiths PNR series that has hooked me to the point of addiction. Each time I finish a new installment, I find myself rabidly salivating for the next. I’m absolutely hooked on this unique world that Nashoda built with her characters. Her writing maintains it’s signature grit and if possible her alphas are even more alpha in this one. Something to do with the PNR aspect, I’m sure, and I eat it all up with a squirming sort of glee.

Now if you haven’t read Stygian, you must before going into this book. While each book in the series focuses on a different couple and their HEA, the story arc continues throughout the series. And while the author gives you a jolt of memory here about what happened in book 1, you would still be slightly lost having not read Stygian first.

Those that have, you’ll definitely recall Rayne; a waif of a woman that you don’t quite know is a friend or foe. She’s the wife of one of the most brutal enemies of the Scars, and also the man responsible for the death of one of their mate’s. But she’s also the woman that helped Kilter escape the compound when he went for a rescue mission, and now he can’t stop thinking about the woman he left behind. Is she paying for letting him escape? Is she actually an unwilling prisoner? Kilter knows only one thing, he needs to go back to her and he’ll stop at nothing to do it.

Rayne was a bit of an enigma. You know what she’s suffered and you know that she’s valuable to the people holding her captive…but you don’t know why. Years of abuse has reduced her to a shell of a woman. She’s dangerously thin, emotionally stunted and scarred. She doesn’t know why this dangerous warrior wants to help her, but she’s trying her hardest to accept his help now that he’s rescued her from the hell she’s known practically all her life.

Tyrant was a bit different from the other books in the series, where there was quite a few more POVs in the form of Delara, Waleron, Jedrick, Kilter and Rayne, and two more side characters that you’ll get to know later in the book. But there is not one wasted page. Where usually I would be bothered by so many POVs, it really worked for the story here. Each POV drove the plot, and I couldn’t see it working without it.

There’s quite a lot of story that happens here too; outside of just what’s going on with Kilter and Rayne. The story that truly kept me glued to the pages was Waleron and Delara. There’s some mind reeling revelations that left me both shocked and impatient to finally get their full story.

As for Kilter and Rayne? They were absolute perfection. Kilter has been angry at the world for years. Ever since the horrific torture he suffered at the hands of people he trusted the most, he’s lost his trust not only for the rest of his fellow Scars but everyone. He’s withdrawn, angry, vengeful. But there’s something about Rayne that soothes him and so his behavior towards her was so wonderful to read. He may be rough around the edges, but this man is uber protective of Rayne. Not to mention their chemistry was incredibly hot.

Our chests heaved, hearts pounded, and our skin was heated as we both stilled and stared at one another for a minute, taking in what we shared, knowing it was special.
And, yeah, knowing this was more. We were more. And it was endless.

While the romance between Rayne and Kilter is the primary focus, there’s a lot happening around that. So much so that at times they almost came in second. That’s not necessarily a bad thing because everything that was happening was incredibly entertaining. Though having said that, they did get a little bit lost in the shadow of everything else that was going on at times.

I found my focus to truly be centered on the happenings between Waleron and Delera. I was practically rabid for any new details about their past, and there were some really juicy details that were revealed in this book.

Nashoda Rose is a masterful story teller and she weaves one hell of an addicting story within a unique world of The Scars. I’m sitting on pins and needles until the next book!

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

THE REST OF THE SERIES

TAKE
AMAZON | MY REVIEW

STYGIAN
AMAZON | MY REVIEW

Leave a Comment · Filed Under: All Reviews, PNR · Tagged With: Book Reviews: 4 stars

Upcoming Releases for March 8

March 7, 2016 by Lana · Leave a Comment

Another fantastic release week ahead of us. Here’s a list of the prettehs releasing on Tuesday, and one book which I’ve already read and loved that released today!

MARCH 7 RELEASE

TYRANT by Nashoda Rose

New York Times & USA Today Best Selling Author Nashoda Rose brings a fresh twist to the paranormal romance world with ‘the Scars’.

“I don’t do nice. Period.” -Kilter (nickname: Off-Kilter)

Kilter is crass, reckless and stubborn. He has alienated everyone—just the way he likes it. Until the day he meets Rayne and emotions he buried long ago reawaken.

“I was nothing but a science experiment.” -Rayne

Rayne has been locked away and used for research ever since she was a child. The abuse caused her to withdraw into a tomb of numbness where she’s found a safe place to hide. But her safe place isn’t safe at all, it’s slowly killing her.
When Kilter rescues her and she is unexpectedly drawn to his raw honesty, Rayne must decide whether to trust him and fight for what she can’t see or drown into the depths of darkness.

For some Scars, it’s the story of healing and redemption, for others it’s the beginning of a tortured existence. Which will it be for Kilter and Rayne?

A band of fierce warriors walk in the shadows of the human world with capabilities derived from the senses: Trackers, Sounders, Healers, Tasters, Visionaries and the rare Reflectors. They are known as the ‘Scars.

*Stygian must be read first. 18+

Scars of the Wraiths Series
Stygian (Scars of the Wraiths, Book 1)
Tyrant (Scars of the Wraiths, Book 2)
Take (Scars of the Wraiths, standalone)
Credo (Scars of the Wraiths, Book 3) (coming 2016)

Author’s Note: Tyrant (Scars of the Wraiths, Book 2) was originally titled “Step” (Senses Series). The book has been completely re-written. However, please check your Kindles before purchasing.

MARCH 8 RELEASES

PORN STAR by Laurelin Paige & Sierra Simone

You know me.

Come on, you know you do.

Maybe you pretend you don’t. Maybe you clear your browser history religiously. Maybe you pretend to be aghast whenever someone even mentions the word porn in your presence.

But the truth is that you do know me.

Everybody knows Logan O’Toole, world famous porn star.

Except then Devi Dare pops into my world, and pretty soon I’m doing things that aren’t like me–like texting her with flirty banter and creating an entire web porn series just so I can get to star in her bed. Again. And again.

With Devi, my entire universe shifts, and the more time I spend with her, the more I realize that Logan O’Toole isn’t the guy I thought he was.

So maybe I’m not the guy you thought I was either.

SLAVE TO THE RHYTHM by Jane Harvey-Berrick

**********WARNING**********
This book contains scenes that some readers may find distressing, and is not for anyone under the age of 18.

The criminals in this story are NOT men who love their mothers, put family first and are noble villains, but monsters who traffic in human misery.

***********************************

DANCE. Guns.
MUSIC. Bullets.
RHYTHM. Pain.

Music in my head, dance in my body, the rhythm of my heart.

How far can you fall in just one month? How quickly can the human spirit be broken? Where does evil hide in plain sight?

Ash wants to dance. Needs it. To leave behind a life of expectation and duty, to set his soul free.
But life is never that simple. Every step is a journey on a new road.

For every action, there is a reaction.

Every choice has a consequence.

And when you meet the wrong person, all bets are off.

Laney tolerates her limitations, pushing quietly at boundaries. But when Ash crashes into her world through rage and violence, it sets off a chain reaction that neither of them expected.

ROUGH RHYTHM by Tessa Bailey

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.

RISKING IT ALL by Christi Barth

Who doesn’t love Naked Men? In Christi Barth’s irresistible series, a group of close-knit friends talk out their problems with naked honesty on a popular blog. Bonded by a high-school tragedy, they’re moving on from the past—and fighting for the future with strong and sassy women.

Griffin Montgomery helps people. As a teenager, he kept his best friends alive after their soccer team’s bus crashed in the Alps. Now, as a Coast Guard search and rescue pilot, he saves lives with reckless abandon—until he goes too far and earns a lengthy suspension. Working on the Naked Men projects keeps his mind busy, but Griff’s itching to get back in the action. That’s when he finds his latest rescue mission: a pretty wallflower who’s stuck in her comfort zone.

Chloe Widmore doesn’t take risks. As a professional letter writer, she gets enough excitement out of expressing other people’s emotions. So when the hottest man she’s ever seen invades her coffee shop, Chloe surprises herself with how much she wants to be with him. Routines make her feel safe. Griff makes her deliciously unsafe, in so many ways. But falling for him is one risk she might just have to take . . . whether she’s ready or not.

US by Sarina Bowen & Elle Kennedy

Can your favorite hockey players finish their first season together undefeated?

Five months in, NHL forward Ryan Wesley is having a record-breaking rookie season. He’s living his dream of playing pro hockey and coming home every night to the man he loves—Jamie Canning, his longtime best friend turned boyfriend. There’s just one problem: the most important relationship of his life is one he needs to keep hidden, or else face a media storm that will eclipse his success on the ice.

Jamie loves Wes. He really, truly does. But hiding sucks. It’s not the life Jamie envisioned for himself, and the strain of keeping their secret is taking its toll. It doesn’t help that his new job isn’t going as smoothly as he’d hoped, but he knows he can power through it as long as he has Wes. At least apartment 10B is their retreat, where they can always be themselves.

Or can they? When Wes’s nosiest teammate moves in upstairs, the threads of their carefully woven lie begin to unravel. With the outside world determined to take its best shot at them, can Wes and Jamie develop major-league relationship skills on the fly?

Warning: contains sexual situations, a vibrating chair, long-distance sexytimes and proof that hockey players look hot in any shade of green.

SAVED BY THE SEAL by Diana Gardin

He saved her life. She showed him how to live it . . .

When he sees a woman drowning, Grisham Abbot immediately leaps into action. The Navy SEAL forgets his training, his past, and the explosion that forever scarred his body and his mind. He can only remember what he was born to do. But saving Greta Owen is a complication Grisham is definitely not ready for. She’s stunning and gorgeous-like sunlight after months of darkness. Yep, Grisham is so, so screwed.

Greta knows that the smart thing to do would be to run from Grisham. He’s a wounded warrior, and his head is a big-time mess. The problem is that Greta wants to make him hermess. One kiss and she’s completely in over her head. And if this SEAL risked himself to save her, then she must find a way to bring him back to life . . .

SEDUCTION by Lauren Smith

Tristan is a man who knows what he wants. And he wants Kat in his bed. All he has to do is convince her they belong together . . .

Kat knows the connection she and Tristan share is special. Her British bad boy is too much of everything: too hot, too arrogant, too irresistible to stay away from. He’s her addiction and one night with him isn’t enough.

That’s what hurts the most. They can’t date, can’t be a normal couple, not when their parents are getting married. Because now that she knows he’s going to be her stepbrother, no one can ever find out what they’ve done . . .

Part 2 in the Her British Stepbrother series.

SPARROW by L.J. Shen

Troy Brennan

Every southie in Boston knows that name. The son of a dead mobster. The heart throb with steel blue eyes. “The Fixer” who can make or break you in this city.

Oh, and my new husband.

Sparrow Raynes

That’s me. No one seemed to remember my name up until he barged into my life.
But then he caged me.
Kidnapped me.
And killed every chance I had to runaway from the place where we grew up.
Put simply, Troy Brennan clipped my wings.

I have dreams, big ones, but I doubt he’d ever let me chase them. I have no idea why he’d decided to take me as his wife. But I do know this: pissing off this man will not do me any good. At all.

Sparrow is a standalone, full-length novel. It contains graphic violence and adult situations some may find offensive.

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

Review: Madame X by Jasinda Wilder

March 5, 2016 by Lana · Leave a Comment

MADAME X
Series: Madame X #1
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Author: Jasinda Wilder
Release Date: October 6, 2015

Madame X invites you to test the limits of control in this provocative new novel from New York Times bestselling author Jasinda Wilder.

My name is Madame X.
I’m the best at what I do.
And you’d do well to follow my rules…

Hired to transform the uncultured, inept sons of the wealthy and powerful into decisive, confident men, Madame X is a master of the art of control. With a single glance she can cut you down to nothing, or make you feel like a king.

But there is only one man who can claim her body—and her soul.

Undone time and again by his exquisite dominance, X craves and fears his desire in equal measure. And while she longs for a different path, X has never known anything or anyone else—until now…

AMAZON | B&N | iBOOKS

I belong to one man and one man alone, and he does not share.”

I’ve been sitting here for two days trying to put all my convoluted thoughts in words. Did I like this book? I don’t know. Did I DISlike it? I don’t know. I really just have no idea how I feel about the book, the characters, or the story. None. And isn’t that a bitch? The entire story is one mystery hidden behind another, and there’s quite a few things at work here that managed to leave me with more questions than answers now that I finished. Am I curious enough to read the next book to see where the story is going? I AM curious. But it’s more of a “I wish someone else would read it and tell me” sort of curiosity. It’s just that middle of the road book that I really don’t know how I even feel about. But I’ve digressed. Allow me to try to sum-up my thoughts somewhat in a semblance of a spoiler free review here…

Silence breathes truth; solitude breeds introspection.”

Madame X is a highly sought after and exclusive trainer to spoiled sons of the rich and entitled. Named after Jon Singer Sargent’s Portrait of Madame X, she whips inept and spoiled boys into men. She’s stunning, beguiling, cold, and incredibly good at her job. Her services are expensive and she has a waiting list 2 years long. She is THE person to go to for the rich to educate their sons how to be men enough to eventually take over their fathers’ empires. Her job is also all she knows and all she’s known for over six years now.

Is she a willing victim or the prey of something much more sinister? Therein lies the rub and that’s what the reader is left questioning for the entirety of the book.

So what didn’t work for me?

The writing style for one…
I couldn’t quite wrap my mind around it. Is it present tense? Past tense?

Your mouth, X.”
I sink to my knees. Unzip. Free the slide-and-hook clasp of custom-tailored trousers. Taste flesh. Smoky essence. My hands and mouth on firm, clean, masculine flesh….

Madame X refers to her clients as “you”. ‘You sit at a table and wait for me. I look at you’. But then the other main character in the story gets referred to as almost something more…almost like an entity if that even makes sense

I am pulled upright, a broad, hard palm cupping the back of my neck. Eyes bore down on me, pierce me, dark and still furious.

Caleb is an enigma in every essence of the word, so perhaps that particular descriptive writing of his scenes are the reasons behind it. To build on that perception? But if I’m being honest, it mostly just flew over my head and managed to confuse me.

The writing style and dialogue is almost ostentatious at times with the words and descriptions used. Madame X is extremely cultured, and it certainly gets across in her inner monologue, however, I just found it to be excessive. Her referring to her nether regions as “privates” didn’t help either.

So focused on the man in front of me, am I, that I’ve noticed nothing of the space around me.

Do you see what I mean though? It was just entirely too much considering I’m reading a contemporary erotic romance…

My other issue was Caleb

Caleb Indigo was created by an artist for the express purpose of ravishing women. Specifically, in this moment, this woman.
And I hate my body for it.”

Is he a bad guy? A good guy shrouded in mystery that’s simply misunderstood? Who is he? What is it he does? Do I care? The answer to all of those questions is I don’t know. I couldn’t connect to him for the life of me. I’m all for questionable characters, but I do have my limits and I do think that this man was that. I found nothing endearing or captivating about him. Perhaps this was the point and the second and third books will put things in better perspective. The problem is that my perception of him is already skewed and I don’t think it’ll be changing.

I feel shame, embarrassment, revulsion. Hatred. I fell for the sorcery again. Caleb has some way of weaving a spell over me, of making me forget all my objections and all my thoughts and everything that is logical or rational.

Now as for the story itself? I can see how people would enjoy it. It is somewhat spellbinding if you can connect to it. The mystery, the secrets, it all weaves together into quite a tale. Perhaps if I enjoyed the writing style and developed a better connection to X, that would have been the case for me as well.
I couldn’t understand X’s behavior or decisions. She’s a strong and captivating woman, but at times her naivety was a bit too much. Yes, I understand that since this is all she’s known for over 6 years that mostly rules her actions…but to a point. This is particularly true for the direction the ending of the book took. I was not at all a fan of that particular direction. While I do plan on reading the second book to see what happens, I’m not exactly anxious at a chance to jump into it either.

I suppose I’ll save my ultimate judgement of the series until I finish book 2, so we’ll just wait to see what happens.

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

THE TRILOGY

MADAME X | EXPOSED | EXILED

Leave a Comment · Filed Under: All Reviews, Contemporary Romance · Tagged With: Book Reviews: 3 stars

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