Review: Sweet Victory by Gina L. Maxwell

March 4, 2017 by · Leave a Comment

SWEET VICTORY
Series: Fighting For Love #4
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Erotic
Author: Gina L. Maxwell
Release Date: February 27, 2017

Sophie Caldwell might not like asking for help, but help is what she needs if she’s going to save her family business from her uncle. Her grandma left one rule for Sophie if she wants to gain sole ownership before she’s thirty–get married. Yeah, fat chance of that happening since she hasn’t had a boyfriend in years, and now she can’t get her uncle off her ass.

British-born MMA fighter Xander James has never lost a fight, and he’s not about to start now. He’s on the brink of a comeback that could make him a UFC champion, but his landlord wants to take away his last chance by shutting down his gym. Hell, no. Fortunately, his landlord’s niece has a problem of her own. Time for a proposal she can’t refuse.

Each book in the Fighting for Love series is a standalone story that can be enjoyed out of order.
Series Order:
Book #1 Seducing Cinderella
Book #2 Rules of Entanglement
Book #3 Fighting For Irish
Book #4 Sweet Victory

AMAZON

God, had any woman ever tasted so good, felt so perfect, so soft and strong and absofuckinglutely amazing? No way. At least none that he’d had. Sophie Caldwell left them so far in her dust that new rating systems would have to be invented. One through ten was a joke.

It’s hard to believe that it’s been four years since I first read the book that began my love affair with all things Gina L Maxwell, Seducing Cinderella. This book was slightly bittersweet for me to read since it concludes what’s been one of my favorite series. But damn, Gina, way to go out with a bang!

So Xander James…
Yeah. What’s better than a ripped MMA fighter? Give him a British accent. I mean….*drools*. I know, I know, I’m easy. But I can’t help myself. I loved the man.

Xander is training for his comeback fight. He’s supposed to be focused on nothing but that, but the green haired pinup beauty and owner of the cupcake bakery nextdoor to his gym proves to be a distraction he can’t resist. When he sees an opportunity to save her bakery and his gym from a sale planned by her greedy uncle, he takes it. The terms? A marriage.

Now, I’m a sucker for the fake marriage trope, and this story fully delivered on that end. Sophie was a sassy, tatted and pierced ball of awesome. She’s had her heart broken by every man she’s ever trusted and it’s hard to believe what the sexy MMA fighter is offering her. It’s even harder when the lines blur and the sexual chemistry between them proves to be too much to resist.

She was a visual addiction that only got stronger with each passing day.

I LOVED the banter between these two. LOVED IT.

Jesus Christ, Xander. I don’t know whether I should try to have sex with that thing—and I emphasize try—or use it to roll out dough.
What the hell am I supposed to do with that weapon of mass vagina destruction?”
“Now you’re just trying to play to my ego,” he said with a wicked grin…

The chemistry between them was through the roof. I loved the slow build and the high sizzle.

I also loved seeing all my favorites from the past books make a cameo.

Sweet Victory was a deliciously satisfying conclusion to one of my favorite series. It was sexy and sweet. It was entertaining and scorching hot. It was everything I’ve come to expect from this author and exactly what made me a fan of hers to begin with.

THE FIGHTING FOR LOVE SERIES

SEDUCING CINDERELLA | RULES OF ENTANGLEMENT | FIGHTING FOR IRISH

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Review: Wait For It by @MollyOKwrites

March 1, 2017 by · Leave a Comment

WAIT FOR IT
Series: Everything I Left Unsaid #4
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Author: Molly O’Keefe
Release Date: February 28, 2017

In a blistering novel of raw emotion and desire, a tormented woman teaches an alpha male that money can’t fix everything . . . but love can.

Tiffany : After fighting for a new life, I don’t want to play the victim anymore. However, with three kids to raise, I’m getting desperate enough to make a deal with the devil. My estranged brother-in-law, Blake, says he just wants to help, but he’s been trouble since I met him. I don’t know if I can believe this kinder, gentler Blake, and there’s a friction between us that has turned into the sweetest chemistry. He could be my salvation . . . or my downfall.

Blake : I haven’t always had Tiffany’s best interests at heart but I’m ready to make up for my sins. Besides, I can’t help admiring her: The girl’s a genuine survivor, tough and lean, with eyes of steel. But the more I get to know Tiffany, the more I want her. Every inch of her. Which means I’m about to make a bad situation a hell of a lot worse.

AMAZON | iBOOKS

I wanted her. Every bit of her. And every thorn between us. I wanted the sharp corners and the deep shadows.

Ever since Blake first hit my radar in The Truth About Him I’ve been itching to get my hands on his story. It’s no secret that I’m a sucker for the assholes, and let’s be frank, there’s no other word better to describe the man. He’s cold, ruthless, and will spare nothing and no one to get what he wants.

While you could technically read this book as a standalone, I wouldn’t recommend it. The author does an incredible job giving the reader plenty of backstory that you wouldn’t be lost, however, the intricacies of these characters that was slowly developed as the series progressed would be lost on you. I just don’t think you’d have the same appreciation for who they are and what they’ve been through without at lease reading the first two books.

Tiffany was a woman I didn’t click with until this book. While a part of me felt sorry for her and her situation, her actions at times made her easy to dislike. But somewhere beneath that loathing and pity, there was also a small beacon of hope that this is a woman that’s hiding her deeper layers, and boy did I get them here.

He stood there with the street lights throwing an icy light across him. He was beautiful. In a perfectly cold way.

Having survived an abusive marriage and having no one to turn to for help has turned her into a shell of the woman she once was. But even though she’s frail, she’s no where near broken. And when her husband’s estranged brother questions her morality and the paternity of their kids, she doesn’t hesitate to give as good as she gets.

To say that these two get off to a rocky start would be an understatement.

And I deserved both. Her want and her hate. It was the currency I’d dealt with. It was the currency I’d created. Because I could not figure out what to do with anything else.

Molly O’Keefe is a master of serving her readers up with characters that are almost irreparably broken and twining it all around a raw emotion that’s so gripping, it’s as riveting as it is heart rending. She really brought her A game with the story of Blake and Tiffany.

These two are as far from perfect as it gets. Both have a troubled past and demons that they hide from. They should be toxic together, and yet, there’s something about their individual broken pieces that almost…just barely…makes something whole.

I kissed her like she was the solution. My solution. Like she was everything I needed. And right now that was the truth. And I longed with my naked soul to be her solution.

Their means of getting together aren’t exactly orthodox, but knowing their backstories, it also made a certain kind of sense.

This is not a story of black and white, it was somewhere deep in the gray and it certainly wasn’t a light hearted read. It was painful, emotional, raw, gritty, everything I’ve come to expect from this amazingly talented author.

Wrapped in all of that was a sexual chemistry that was so hot, it was damn near explosive.

I can’t wait to fuck you,” he said. “I can’t wait to put my cock inside this hot greedy little body. I can’t wait to feel every inch of you against me, your pussy milking my cock until I can’t give you any more. I want you to scream and bite and claw. I want you to come so hard it hurts.”

There’s so much depth to both of these characters and their story is one of many layers that at first shouldn’t make sense, but yet, they do. It’s a story that may not click with every reader, but it definitely did with this one.

I would have loved for the hate lust between them to last longer, but that’s because I’m a glutton for punishment and loves me some angst.

If you’re looking for a romance full of raw emotion and sexual chemistry, this is one series you need to check out. I’ve been waiting a long time for Blake and Tiffany’s story, and I can say it was very much worth the wait.

READ THE REST OF THE SERIES

EVERYTHING I LEFT UNSAID 
Purchase | Read My Review

THE TRUTH ABOUT HIM
Purchase | Read My Review

BURN DOWN THE NIGHT
Purchase | Read My Review

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Jennifer’s Review: Vicious by @lj_shen

February 26, 2017 by · Leave a Comment

VICIOUS
Series: Sinners of Saint #1
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Author: LJ Shen
Release Date: December 27, 2016

Emilia

They say love and hate are the same feelings experienced under different circumstances, and it’s true.
The man who comes to me in my dreams also haunts me in my nightmares.
He is a brilliant lawyer.
A skilled criminal.
A beautiful liar.
A bully and a savior, a monster and a lover.
Ten years ago, he made me run away from the small town where we lived. Now, he came for me in New York, and he isn’t leaving until he takes me with him.

Vicious

She is a starving artist.
Pretty and evasive like cherry blossom.
Ten years ago, she barged into my life unannounced and turned everything upside down.
She paid the price.
Emilia LeBlanc is completely off-limits, my best friend’s ex-girlfriend. The woman who knows my darkest secret, and the daughter of the cheap Help we hired to take care of our estate.
That should deter me from chasing her, but it doesn’t.
So she hates me. Big fucking deal.
She better get used to me.

AMAZON

HEY!!!…YOU!!!…..Yeah, you. Pay attention. You need to read this book. I know everyone says that about the book they love (*rolls eyes). But, seriously. You need to read this book.

Ok. If you don’t love assholes, then you probably shouldn’t read this book. But if you love assholes……this is the most perfect asshole in all the books I’ve read. I have never met a more perfect asshole. I mean, this guy is actually mean. Like……really really really narcistic mean. And he doesn’t get better….ok, maybe marginally better.

And

I

LOVE

HIM

Like I have deep, down love for this man. For VICIOUS. Ugh. Just give him to me. This man is seriously MESSED UP. He’s got some serious issues. Like he needs therapy. And I still love him.

Love this!: It all starts in high school when Emilia’s parents begin working for Vicious’s parents at their estate. Vicious is a tortured soul, but we don’t find out about his demons until much later. WE HATE HIM….for most of this book. He hates Emilia and always find a reason to torture her, despite that Emilia does nothing to make him hate her. For most of this book, he doesn’t even say her name.
à la Mode St. » fashion

Catering to me. Serving me. Envying me. She was going to stay small and insignificant. Uneducated and opportunity-less. And above all—mine.

à la Mode St. » fashionThe timeline jumps several times during this book, and it’s effortless. I loved every second of the torture that was Vicious and Emilia. I loved the mystery of their relationship because of the timeline. I loved how LJ Shen MADE ME LOVE HIM. She did. She took my heart in her hands, and said, “JENNIFER, YOU WILL HATE VICIOUS SO MUCH, YOU WILL LOVE HIM.” And I did. So thank you, LJ Shen, for making me hate…I mean, love him. ALL THE HATE/LOVE FOR VICIOUS.

Emilia was just as perfect as Vicious.
Swallow. Blink. Sigh. Blush. Look away.
 She was a genuinely nice person who didn’t deserve how he treated her. And I love how it takes a long time for him to get back in her good graces (a looooong time). I love her smart mouth and how she doesn’t put up with his shit. He takes her to the brink of insanity and torture, dragging her along. Wanting her but not claiming her and not wanting her to be with anyone else. He RUINS HER LIFE!!!! And I still love him.
clouds walk antonio mora: The beauty of this book is that Vicious learns to be a marginally better person, but in the end, he is still who he is. And she loves him for it. And she doesn’t try to change him. I loved living along with these characters as they grew and changed.
à la Mode St. » fashion

”We’ve waited a long time for this. I want the real thing. Not the watered-down version. And the real thing is not only beautiful. It is also ugly. I want your truth.”

à la Mode St. » fashionI could not put this book down. It is brilliant. Genius. This book blew my mind. The writing. The character development is ON…POINT! LJ Shen can write like a motherfucker!
I will be reading this book again and again and again.
I will be reading ALL of LJ Shen’s books.

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Release Tour & Geri’s Review

February 25, 2017 by · Leave a Comment

PUCKED OFF
Series: Pucked #5
Genre: Contemporary Romance 
Author: Helena Hunting
Release Date: Feb 21, 2017

***A Standalone novel in The Pucked Series***

I’m NHL defenseman Lance Romero, AKA Lance “Romance.”

I’m notorious for parties and excess. I have the most penalty minutes in the league. I get into the most fights. I take the most hits. I’m a player on and off the ice. I’m the one women with no inhibitions want.

Not because I like the notoriety, but because I don’t know how to be any other way.

I have secrets. Ones I shared with the wrong person, and she used them against me. Sometimes she still does. I should cut ties. But she makes it difficult, because she’s the kind of bad I deserve.

At least that’s what I believed until someone from my past gets caught up in my present. She’s all the good things in this world. She lights up my dark.

I shouldn’t want her.

But I do.

I should leave her alone.

But I won’t.

AMAZON | iBOOKS | B&N | KOBO 

For the first time in my entire life, I understand what it means to be with someone who will give and not just take.” 

Full disclosure: This my first Helena Hunting book ever. And I know it’s already the 5th book in the series and all that but this was marketed as a standalone. Not only that, the blurb/summary for this book spoke to me. This is my kind of book.

Lance is an NHL defeseman known for his excesses and hotheadedness on and off the field. Despite being successful at hockey and surrounded by people everyday, Lance still feels lonely and isolated. It’s a theme throughout his life.

His pain and loneliness was exacerbated when he got into an ill-advised relationship with their team trainer. The relationship crashed and burned and it left Lance more broken than ever.

I kept hoping she’d decide I was enough. Stupid, huh?”
“It’s not stupid, Lance. Sometimes it’s hard to tell your heart not to want someone, even if all they do is hurt you.”

Enter Poppy, a woman who shares a history with Lance. For Poppy, Lance is her “what could have been.” She has this idealized version of Lance that is far from who he is now. The problem is Lance doesn’t quite remember her.

What I really loved about this book is the way Lance and Poppy’s story sort of came full circle. Not just their love story and how that developed but also with their character arcs. Poppy is the perfect foil for him. She’s light to his dark. She’s everything that Lance craved and wanted for in so long but never succeeded in attaining.

There’s something about a broken hero who strives to be good but fails most of the time. He’s also the kind of hero who made mistakes and has to pay for those mistakes. Lance embodies that perfectly.

You’re all the good things I didn’t know I was missing.”

My only complaint–and this is probably because I’ve never had a chance to meet her before this book–is Tasha. She’s bordering caricature villain. The only perspective we got is from Lance, which isn’t flattering to say the least.

Again, maybe those who’ve read the book will have deeper understanding about her character but for me, meh. Despite all the “bad” things she’s done to Lance, her character is uninteresting. And while her presence served as a conflict at the beginning of the story, it got weaker and weaker towards the middle and through the end.

Despite my issues, this was a book that captured and held my attention from beginning until the end. Lance and Poppy’s HEA was well earned and well deserved. And that sweet epilogue was just icing on top.

My darling girl. I’ve never had someone who was just mine, body and soul—mine to protect and hold and love. And that’s what Sarah is . . . she belongs to me now. We belong to each other.

Armed with my clipboard, I walk down the hall to the waiting room. Lance is impossible to miss. Despite the fact that he’s wearing a sweatshirt and the hood is covering half of his face, he’s more than six feet of broad, hockey-playing man.

He’s so wide his shoulders encroach on the chairs on either side, which would explain why no one is sitting next to him. He’s slouched down so his head rests on the back of the chair, and his hands are clasped in his lap, a baseball cap hanging off one knee. His lips, plush and soft—I know since I’ve had them on mine; it might have been a decade ago, but I remember it clearly—are parted. He looks like he’s asleep.

I clear my throat. “Lance Romero?”

He doesn’t move.

Bernadette, the receptionist, gives me a meaningful look.

I clear my throat again and call his name a second time. He jolts awake and the hood falls back, exposing his face. It’s not in good shape. He has a black eye and bruises on his left cheek. There’s a fly bandage across one eyebrow.

Sadly, he’s still hot.

He blinks a few times, yawns, and smacks his lips, his tongue touching the split in the bottom one. His gaze sweeps the room and finally lands on me. Heat explodes in my cheeks and courses through my limbs, warming me from the inside out as he starts at my sneaker-clad feet and roams up over my yoga pants to my company-issued T-shirt before stopping at my face. I can’t look directly at him for more than a couple of seconds. I sincerely hope he doesn’t remember me. I cannot go there and also be professional.

I’m sure the smile he gives me has melted many a panty off a slutty bunny. Mine stay right where they’re supposed to, wedged up my ass.

I force a polite, professional veneer. “I’m ready for you now.”

NYT and USA Today bestselling author of PUCKED, Helena Hunting lives on the outskirts of Toronto with her incredibly tolerant family and two moderately intolerant cats. She’s writes contemporary romance ranging from new adult angst to romantic sports comedy.

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Review: Sin For Me by Lisa Marie Perry

February 22, 2017 by · Leave a Comment

SIN FOR ME
Series: The Devil’s Music
Genre: Erotic Romance
Author: Lisa Marie Perry
Release Date: February 21, 2017

Fans of Empire will love Lisa Marie Perry’s stylish, addictive novels of passion, drama, and seduction. The high-powered men and women behind Devil’s Music have made their fortunes building the hottest label in hip hop, but it’s the action behind the scenes that’s seriously steamy.

For Dante Bishop, music died the night he found his father’s body next to a syringe of lithium. Ditching Atlanta, Dante jumped on his Harley and left the family business to his sister. She became the heart and soul of Devil’s Music—until the board, including Dante’s ex, masterminded a takeover. Years later, Dante’s doing something he never thought he’d do: returning to Georgia to put his songwriting skills to good use. Reuniting with Chelsea Coin only sweetens the deal.

As the perfectionist COO of Devil’s Music, Chelsea doesn’t dwell on the past. If she did, she’d never forgive herself for betraying the Bishops in a corporate power grab. Now Chelsea needs help to save the company, and Dante’s a nonnegotiable part of the arrangement. Still brooding and hot as hell, Dante wastes no time stirring up unfinished business—and carnal memories Chelsea would rather keep buried. She’s come too far to risk everything on a man. But for desire this intense, she might just enjoy the sexiest mistake of her life.

AMAZON | iBOOKS

You can’t beat the devil unless you play his game.

I have no idea what I just read.
I’m pretty sure every single character in this book is completely and utterly screwed up.
I’m also pretty sure that I liked that more than I should have.
It was like an urban soap opera.
It was like (a hotter) book version of Empire.
I was ready to chuck my damn kindle at the wall with that ending.
I’m read to commit some sort of a sin to get my grabby little hands on the next book.
I’m going to go calm my tits now….
Oh you want a review, do you? Well then! Let me try to give you a semblance of one here.

So this book was…*scratches head*
A romance? *scratches chin*
A soap opera with some crazy drama, music, crazy as hell characters, multiple POVs of said crazy as hell characters, and some hot sex. *nods head enthusiastically*
Yes. That about sums it up.

The story centers around the Devil’s Music record label. Once upon a time, Delilah Bishop was set to inherit her father’s legacy, her beloved label. But a betrayal from the people she least expected ripped it all away from her. But she’s back and she wants revenge and she’ll spare no one in her way; not her past best friends. They are, after all, the ones running her label now.

Dante Bishop walked away from everything after he buried his father. He wanted no part of the label or the toxicity that came from the backstabbing life style it called for. That was his sister’s thing. Never his. Having his heart broken by the woman he thought he’d spend the rest of his life with only solidified his decision. But now opportunity has come knocking and he’s forced to come back into the lion’s den to help save the label and possibly get Delilah her legacy back. It also gives him the opportunity to get his revenge on the woman he once loved, Delilah’s ex-best friend and current COO of Devil’s Music.

Would I call this a romance? Not at the heart of it. There was so much MORE going on. The romance was certainly there but it wasn’t the focus for me, more like the cherry on the top. Lisa Marie Perry weaves a hell of a twisted tale here and it definitely sucked this reader in. The story is complex and multi-layered. So much so that it took me almost half the book to really get my head around ALL of it. Because there was A LOT. It was seriously like watching a super hot episode of Empire. It was completely different from anything I’ve read in the past and that hit the spot just right.

Add in the complex relationship between Chelsea and Dante and I was in hate lust heaven. There are a few more interweaving story lines that flow along with theirs and I’m practically salivating to get their stories.

As for that ending? Well, let’s just say if I don’t get the next book in my grabby little hands soon, I just may have to cut someone.

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Release Blitz, Review & Giveaway: Sex Says by @authormaxmonroe

February 21, 2017 by · Leave a Comment

SEX SAYS
Genre: Romantic Comedy
Author: Max Monroe
Release Date: February 21, 2017

From New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author Max Monroe comes a new standalone romantic comedy.

Lola

My name is Lola Sexton, and I’m a sex addict.

Okay…that’s a lie.

Truth is, I’m a serial dater turned dating and relationship columnist for The San Francisco Times. My readers call me Sex. Sex Says.

I love my job.

I love my life.

And I hate Reed Luca.

Reed

My name is Reed Luca, and I’m a liar.

Ironically, that’s the truth.

I’m 31, and my occupation is…well, complicated.

My favorite kind of woman comes in all shapes and sizes, but always has a big brain.

I’ve never hated anything.

Lola Sexton hates me.

Luckily, it’s a thin line between love and hate, and with my help, pretty Lola will only be able to straddle that line for so long.

AMAZON | iBOOKS | NOOK | KOBO | GOOGLE PLAY

SEX SAYS SPOTIFY PLAYLIST

Somewhere along the way, hate had morphed into dislike and then reincarnated itself into lust, and then, like had blossomed. I liked Reed. Probably too much. But I couldn’t help it. That intriguing bastard was too much fun. Infuriating bullshit columns aside, I couldn’t not like him.

It’s official. Lola Sexton is my spirit animal and Reed Luca is my current obsession. Max Monroe have ruined me. Done and ruined me for any other man. They are now the proud owners of both my ovaries and possibly my first born. I offered all three to them for just another hit of the crackilicious addiction that was this book. They don’t know it yet. But it’s totally true.

Because ermahgerd! How is this the first book I’m reading by them? HOW? I’m kicking my own ass for this as we speak. What? I’m flexible like that. *sniffs indignantly*

He was unlike anyone I’d ever met. And did I mention I hated him? I did.

If you know me even a little, then you already know that the enemies to lovers trope happens to be my crack of choice. I pant for it like the addict that I am and each time I get a hit, it gives me the pervy happy feels. #TrueStory

And this book? This was the mother of all hate lust. It was the holy grail of enemies to lovers. It was deliciously sexy, kooky, quirky, and laugh till you have tears in your eyes and your stomach hurts kind of good.

Moving my gaze up from his crotch—it admittedly moved a little slowly—I finally settled my focus into the face of none other than my archnemesis. Reed Luca, looking fresh as a fucking daisy and smirking like the devil himself.

Lola was one of the best heroines I’ve read in a while. She was a woman after my own immature little heart. She was a funny, quirky, sharp witted, sarcastic ball of fun and I loved her. I SERIOUSLY LOVED HER. How can you possibly not love a free spirit that likes to roller skate to work and writes a relationship and sex column full of wit and humor. You can’t! You seriously can’t.

Enter stage right, Reed Luca, sexy archnemisis and bane of Lola’s existence. Ever since his video response to her latest dating article went viral, he’s been a thorn in her side. A sexy thorn. But she doesn’t want to focus on that. She hates him. She may also wonder about the size of his penis…while hating him. And Reed was determined to drive her out of her ever loving mind and right into his bed. And let me just tell you, I applaud his methods. Wholeheartedly.

Lola Sexton was fun, and even better news, she thought I was too—she just didn’t realize it yet. She was antagonistic and opinionated and completely off her rocker. And now, I had her right where I wanted her.

The banter between these two was amazing. AMAZING. Every single time these two went at it with their verbal foreplay my ovaries got a happy tingle. Because oh my god did they go at it. With insults that is. What were you thinking, perverts? But I digress.

The romance was a slow sizzle, which I loved all the more.

Something about her drugged me right into oblivion—and despite knowing the downsides of addiction, I couldn’t make myself stop loving it.

I was at the edge of my seat, screaming for these two to finally go at it and rip each other’s clothes off. I couldn’t get enough. I was invested from beginning to end and loved every sarcastic barb with the heavy underlay of lust. It was delicious. Delicious I tells ya!

Add in a whole bunch of amazing secondary characters that only served to make the story that much more fun, and I was putty in these authors hands. PUTTY.

Reed This: Sometimes people can be at two ends of a line and end up next to one another. Because intimacy and love— they’re powerful enough to curve that line into a circle.

Basically what I’m trying to say here, is they have got themselves a new fan in me. If this book is anything to go by, I’ve been seriously missing out.

If you’re looking for a quirky, addictingly fun and super sexy story that’s as refreshingly different as it is tears in your eyes hilarious, you’ve found your next read. You’re welcome.
ENTER HERE

 

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#DGRFave & Geri’s Review: Pretty Face (London Celebrities #2) by Lucy Parker

February 20, 2017 by · Leave a Comment

PRETTY FACE
Series: London Celebrities #2
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Author: Lucy Parker
Release Date: February 20, 2017

Highly acclaimed, award-winning author of Act Like It Lucy Parker returns readers to the London stage with laugh-out-loud wit and plenty of drama

The play’s the fling

It’s not actress Lily Lamprey’s fault that she’s all curves and has the kind of voice that can fog up a camera lens. She wants to prove where her real talents lie—and that’s not on a casting couch, thank you. When she hears esteemed director Luc Savage is renovating a legendary West End theater for a lofty new production, she knows it could be her chance—if only Luc wasn’t so dictatorial, so bad-tempered and so incredibly sexy.

Luc Savage has respect, integrity and experience. He also has it bad for Lily. He’d be willing to dismiss it as a midlife crisis, but this exasperating, irresistible woman is actually a very talented actress. Unfortunately, their romance is not only raising questions about Lily’s suddenly rising career, it’s threatening Luc’s professional reputation. The course of true love never did run smooth. But if they’re not careful, it could bring down the curtain on both their careers…

AMAZON | iBOOKS | B&N | KOBO | HARLEQUIN 

 

This was Luc Savage. Award-winning, career-making, ego-curdling Luc Savage. Get-in-my-way-and-I’ll-crush-you-like-a-bug Luc Savage. And her driving instinct was to touch the tips of her boots to his—and then stand her ground until he stepped back first.”

Sometimes I feel like the book goods are smiling down at me and they send me a book that ticks all of my “how romance should be” boxes. Reading Pretty Face by Lucy Parker is definitely one of those times. And oh my gosh, I don’t have enough words to express how much I love this book.

WARNING! Long, gushy review ahead! #Sorrynotsorry

Luc Savage, one of London West End’s premier director/producer is restoring the Queen Anne theatre and capping it off with a new play. Problem is Luc lost not one but two of his female leads, and he’s desperate to find a replacement.

One of the names considered playing the role of Elizabeth is Lily Lamprey. Lily is famous for playing a dumb, conniving bimbo on Knightsbridge, a label that spills over onto her personal life. It doesn’t help that she looks the part: curvy, blonde and a voice that rivals Marilyn Monroe’s—seductive, breathy and totally inappropriate for theatre. Naturally, Luc is not thrilled and made his opinions about Lily known.

If she was as vacant as she looks on screen, she wouldn’t be able to tie her own shoes.”

But even with Luc’s prejudice, he couldn’t quite deny that there’s some raw talent there. He also can’t deny his attraction to her the moment they meet. And Luc doesn’t want to risk the success of his play and his theatre. So he vowed to keep things professional between them, which worked spectacularly for, um, about 5 minutes.

They released each other’s hands; their eyes met again. Game on.”

Pretty Face is full of laugh-out-loud dialogue, quick witted banter and scorching chemistry between Luc and Lily. Despite her appearance, Lily is a hard worker and resolute. I love her so much. She’s not all cowed by Luc or anyone else for that matter really.

Lily knows a thing or two about double standards and being judged based on your looks. But she had a goal: West End. And she’s willing to work her ass off to get there but she won’t ever compromise herself to get it even though she’s insanely attracted to Luc.

Giving in to their feeling could have repercussions on their career, especially on Lily’s. Something that Lily and Luc was all too aware of. Lily had been accused of sleeping with most of her male co-stars, so giving in to her attraction to Luc would give people the ammunition to write Lily off as the bimbo who got the part because she shagged the director. It’s terribly unfair and it made me even more emotionally invested in the romance between Lily and Luc.

Luc and Lily ended up becoming of my favorite couples of all time. I have a weakness for grumpy, taciturn heroes with hidden sweet side, and Luc fits the bill perfectly. And Lily is just awesome. She’s aware of her looks without being conceited about it, and she’s geniunely a nice person. The evolution of their relationship, including the conflict organic and real. The conflict also felt organic. And their banter is beyond hilarious!

How old is Trix?”

“Twenty-six.”

“I see,” Luc said. “And you’re also twenty-six?”

Lily narrowed her eyes slightly. “Yes.”

“Mmm. And Dan is—”

“Not twenty-six.”

“No. I’d say he’s somewhere around my age.”

“Quite possibly. Are we going to arrive at your point anytime soon?”

“No point.” Luc’s voice was bland. His experssion was not. “Just an observation.”

“That some of us are twenty-six and some of us like to make leading comments?” 

The writing is stellar. I can’t believe this is just her second book because Lucy Parker writes like a seasoned pro. Her characters are nuanced and there’s an emotional depth to them. It’s funny without trying too hard to be comedic. It’s just perfect.

I don’t throw out comparisons to Atticus Finch lightly. He was my first boyfriend.”

“He’s fictional.”

“When I was ten, that was a minor drawback, easily outweighed by the staunch devotion to human rights and penchant for natty waistcoats.”

Gah! I have so many highlights I could share but I won’t or else this review would never end. I didn’t even touch on how well written the secondary characters were and how much they add to the story. Just go, pick up the book and enjoy this spectacular romance from Lucy Parker. You won’t be sorry!

 

Lucy Parker lives in the gorgeous Central Otago region of New Zealand, where she feels lucky every day to look out at mountains, lakes, and vineyards. She has a degree in Art History, loves museums and art galleries, and doodles unrecognizable flowers when she has writer’s block.

When she’s not writing, working or sleeping, she happily tackles the towering pile of to-be-read books that never gets any smaller. Thankfully, there’s always another story waiting.

Her interest in romantic fiction began with a pre-teen viewing of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice (Firth-style), which prompted her to read the book as well. A family friend introduced her to Georgette Heyer, and the rest was history.

Website | Newsletter | Twitter | Goodreads

 

 

 

 

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New Release & Geri’s Review: Wardrobe Malfunction by Samantha Towle

February 18, 2017 by · Leave a Comment

WARDROBE MALFUNCTION
Genre: Romantic Comedy
Author: Samantha Towle
Release Date: February 18, 2017

From New York Times bestselling author, Samantha Towle, comes a new standalone romantic comedy.

Vaughn West, Hollywood heartthrob, has been at the top of his game for years. He thinks he’s untouchable—until a betrayal brings him spiraling down. Now, everyone pities him, and if there’s one thing Vaughn hates, it’s pity.

After a few months of working his way through every available actress, pop star, model, and waitress in California, Vaughn needs to get his life back on track and focus on what he does best—making hit movies.

Charlotte Michaels is in love. Just not with one person.

Louis Vuitton…

Christian Dior…

Valentino…

Gucci…

And the list goes on.

Sadly, Charly’s limited bank account doesn’t allow her those luxuries, and the closest she gets are lucky finds in charity shops and working closely with some of those names in her job as a wardrobe assistant.

Now, Charly has landed the mother of all jobs—working on the new Vaughn West movie. Excited doesn’t even cut it.

Only things don’t go as planned, and it turns out that Vaughn is actually a jerk. A hot jerk, but a jerk nonetheless.

So, why do their clothes keep falling off whenever they’re around each other? And why can’t Charly keep her mind in the closet and off Vaughn?

Getting mixed up with a smart-mouthed, fashion-obsessed wardrobe assistant is the last thing Vaughn needs.

Getting mixed up with an arrogant, self-centered, obnoxious, jumped-up actor who has a lack of respect for fashion is the last thing Charly needs.

Things are about to get hot, dirty, and messy in Hollywood. Very messy. Especially if Charly’s closely guarded secret falls out of her closet.

AMAZON US | UK | AU | CA | DE

“The closest I’ll be getting to Vaughn West is when I take his inner leg measurement.”

Vaugh West is Hollywood’s golden boy. He’s at the top of his game when his life was upended by the revelation on live TV that his fiancée and best friends are having an affair. Humiliated, Vaughn’s behavior spirals out of control. Then he was offered a role by one of Hollywood’s hottest director on the condition that he cleans up his act and keeps his personal life in check.

Enter Charly Michaels, wardrobe assistant extraordinaire with a wicked designer dud obsession. Being hired to be in Vaughn West’s movie is a dream come true for Charly. Not only would it give her some serious bank for more Manolos, it would also give her a chance to work closely with Vaughn, which Charly has a little crush on. Okay, not really a little. More like gigantic crush. Although not the stalkery kind, if you get my drift.

“A normal girl might be just what he needs right now.”
I laugh, shaking my head. “Doubtful. The closest I’ll be getting to Vaughn West is when I take his inner leg measurement.”

What I really enjoyed about this book is it’s not your typical “hot actor meets normal girl” story. Charly isn’t the typical innocent heroine who doesn’t know what the hero does for a living because…you know, reasons. Charly has a crush on him and fangirled on the inside at the prospect of working for Vaughn. I loved that. It made Charly relatable.

But the initial she giddiness felt was quickly doused by reality. While Vaughn West is gorgeous and had a body to die for, he’s a bit of jerk to Charly at first, which I totally enjoyed because I love me some lovable alphahole. Don’t judge meh.

“I mean, Vaughn West wasn’t exactly my idol, more like a sexual fantasy, but whatever because, honestly, I wish I’d never met him. And he’s also a mean jerk. A handsome, super-hot, mean jerk.”

But their professional albeit adversarial relationship quickly turned personal. Vaughn can’t quite resist Charly even though it could totally mean disaster for his career. Charly on the other hand is hiding something from him.

Charly’s secret was a bit of a doozy. It should’ve been obvious to me but Samantha Towle did a great job at setting up the plot twist. I was surprised but not in a sense that there were clues throughout the book. And when you go back and read them, it’s suddenly clear as day.

There were some funny moments and quite a lot of steamy, sexy ones, too. My only issue with it was the second act lagged a bit. There was a definite lull in the middle which didn’t pick up until the plot twist. I understand it was to show Vaugn and Charly growing together in their relationship but still, I wish it kept the momentum going. Fortunately, the plot twist at the end totally made up for the saggy middle act. And then there’s the epilogue. *happy sigh*

Wardrobe Malfunction is a book I would recommend if you’re in the mood for something short, sweet and a whole lotta sexy read.

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Review: Holding On Tighter by Shayla Black

February 14, 2017 by · Leave a Comment

HOLDING ON TIGHTER
Series: Wicked Lovers #12
Genre: Romantic Suspense, Erotic
Author: Shayla Black
Release Date: February 7, 2017

Jolie Quinn is a woman in charge. Her no-nonsense attitude has made her a rising star in the fashion world and her brand a household name among the Dallas elite. Nothing will stop her from achieving her goals—not even the gorgeous British security contractor who seems just as interested in seeing her personal assets as he is in protecting her professional ones.

After a tragedy left him broken, Heath Powell made a rule of staying unattached. But Jolie challenges him in a way he can’t ignore, and he isn’t used to backing down from a confrontation—especially when the reward for winning could feel so good. As passion blazes between them, the stubborn, confident beauty arouses more than his desire. She touches his heart.

When a mysterious enemy threatens Jolie and her company, Heath is the only person Jolie can trust to help. But working with him to save her business might put her dangerously at risk of falling in love…

AMAZON | iBOOKS

Consider this fair warning: I’m coming after you and I intend to have you underneath me. I won’t rest until I do. So shore up your defenses and work yourself up tightly. That way when I seduce you, it will be even sweeter.”

*happy pervy shudder*

*sigh*

It’s hard to believe that this is now the twelfth book in this series. Seems like it was just yesterday first discovered and binged myself on this deliciously sexy series. I’ve been a huge fan, eagerly anticipating each installment. And now twelve books into it, it still doesn’t disappoint.

Heath Powell first caught my attention as the bodyguard in Wicked for You. Even as a secondary character, there was something so arresting about him that I simply couldn’t help but crave this story. After finishing this book, I can tell you that he definitely didn’t disappoint.

Heath is no stranger to tragedy in his life. Having lost his wife to tragic violence, he’s never moved on and never made the effort to heal. He’s been moving through life, one unattached hookup at a time. While he fancied himself in love with Mystery, he’s lost her to Axel and he’s ok with that. Now a stunning beauty that wants nothing more from him than his protection and professional opinion has captivated him beyond reason…if only he can convince her how hot they can burn.

Jolie Quinn is a take no prisoners business woman. The last thing she wants to do is end up liker her flighty mother, moving on from one failed marriage to the next. She doesn’t need a man to define her. She’s focused on one thing only; her career. So why is the sexy Brit determined to protect her from a threat to her life and business suddenly makes her want to give in, if only just once?

Heath Powell was like a beacon she couldn’t help but home into.

I’ll admit that I was a bit worried that I wouldn’t click with Heath and Jolie’s connection at first. Having lost his wife so tragically and then knowing of his feelings for Mystery, I was afraid that I’d feel like he was settling. That couldn’t be further from the truth. I love the way the author pulled it off. Their relationship was certainly on a fast track, but I was invested from start to finish.

Jolie was exactly the sort of heroine I gravitate to. She was tough, doesn’t take any crap from anyone, and has a quick wit with a sharp tongue. There’s also something so vulnerable about her that seems to come out only when she’s around Heath.

With a whimper, she melted, clinging, in desperate need of an anchor. She’d worry later about how she would recover from this total breakdown of her defenses. Right now, his touch felt once-in-a-lifetime. This thing between them engulfed her, consumed her whole. She craved even more.

Holding On Tighter was a sexy, action packed, thrill ride that had me glued to the pages from beginning to finish. I loved seeing all my past favorites and a few new faces that I can’t want to learn more about. I don’t think I’ll ever get tired of this series.

WICKED LOVERS SERIES

WICKED TIES | DECADENT | DELICIOUS | SURRENDER TO ME | BELONG TO ME | MINE TO HOLD | OURS TO LOVE |
THEIRS TO CHERISH | HIS TO TAKE | WICKED FOR YOU |
FALLING IN DEEPER | HOLDING ON TIGHER

 

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Review & Giveaway: Accidentally On Purpose by Jill Shalvis

February 11, 2017 by · Leave a Comment

ACCIDENTALLY ON PURPOSE
Series: Heartbreaker Bay, #3
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Author: Jill Shalvis
Release Date: January 24, 2017

There’s no such thing as a little in love…

Elle Wheaten’s priorities: friends, career, and kick-ass shoes. Then there’s the muscular wall of stubbornness that’s security expert Archer Hunt—who comes before everything else. No point in telling Mr. “Feels-Free Zone” that, though. Elle will just see other men until she gets over Archer . . . which should only take a lifetime . . .

There’s no such thing as a little in lust…

Archer’s wanted the best for Elle ever since he sacrificed his law-enforcement career to save her. But now that she’s earned happiness and success, Archer just wants Elle 24/7. Their chemistry could start the next San Francisco Earthquake, and Archer doesn’t want to be responsible for the damage. The alternative? Watch her go out with guys who aren’t him . . .

There is such a thing as…

As far as Archer’s concerned, nobody is good enough for Elle. But when he sets out to prove it by sabotaging her dates, she gets mad—and things get hot as hell. Now Archer has a new mission: prove to Elle that her perfect man has been here all along…

AMAZON | iBOOKS | B&N

What is it with us?” she murmured.
He laughed softly. “How is that a funny question?”
“Because I try very hard to always know what I’m doing,” he said. “But I’m winging it here, Elle. I have no idea what we’re doing but one thing I’m sure as hell not doing is walking away from you. Not ever again.”

Swoon. Swoon. SWOON. ALL OF THE SWOONS!

I adore Jill Shalvis books. Simply adore them. She never fails to deliver an amazing romance with some of the most endearing characters I’ve read and bundle it all together around an addictingly swoony story that will put a smile on your face and keep it there.

As soon as I met Elle and Archer in Sweet Little Lies, I knew I wanted their book. Their antagonistic ways sucked me in right from the beginning. What can I say, I’m a sucker for a good hate lust and the unresolved tension between these two is downright sizzling. It’s clear they have a troubled history but you never know what it is…until this book that is. Knowing all those details now just made it that much more satisfying. I can wholeheartedly say it was so very much worth the wait.

Archer is a past cop turned security specialist that has lost none of his edge. He’s hard, deadly when crossed, and take charge alpha all around. So why does one stunning beauty manage to rattle him every single time he hears the click of her stilettos?

Elle was as fantastic of a heroine as I imagined she’d be. She’s strong, take no bullshit, focused on her career and doesn’t need a relationship or a man to make her happy. Don’t get me wrong, she’s not a man eater or prickly and brash. She’s simply comfortable with who she is and in her own skin. I loved that about her. It’s wonderful to get a woman that’s strong in all the right ways and yet still has enough softness to her to make her endearing.

Elle has secretly always wanted Archer but she never imagined that the chemistry between them would be as scorching as it is when Archer finally gives into the inevitable.

And can I just say how PERFECT Archer was? Because, oh my god! This. Man.

Shh,” he said gently and crouched down to her level. “Just me. Scoot.”
“Why?”
“Because you’re having bad dreams. I’ll beat them off for you.”
“How?”
“I’ll hold you tight and not let anything get you.”

GAH!

I loved these two together. Absolutely loved them. Everything about this book was fantastic; the main couple, the secondary characters, the story, the romance. EVERYTHING. I love the easy camaraderie all these friends have together. When they all get together, it’s always a recipe for goofy grins.

If you love swoony and steamy contemporary romance, read ANY Jill Shalvis book. But if you’re like me and have already read her entire backlist, than this new series from her is simply addicting. I already can’t wait for more.

THE HEARTBREAKER BAY SERIES

SWEET LITTLE LIES (My Review | Purchase)
THE TROUBLE WITH MISTLETOE (My Review | Purchase)

 

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Enter HERE

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