Review: With or Without Him by Barbara Elsborg

“The most dangerous refuge could be his lover’s arms.”

Everyone has at least one deep-seated fear. For Tyler, it’s being in debt. He’s so desperate to get out and stay out of it, he’ll do almost anything-including selling his body at Saturday night sex parties.

But he refuses to open his mind to anyone, especially the men paying to use him however they want. The only time he’s truly happy is during the week at college, when he can escape into his music.

The moment Haris sees Tyler playing piano at a concert, he falls hard, and he’s willing to do whatever it takes to make the guy his. Even if it means-for the first time in his life-opening his wallet as wide and desperate as his heart.

20,000 to live with a good-looking guy for four months? How can Tyler resist the chance to ditch the sex party scene for good? But neither man realizes how much they’re risking. And when outside forces close in, ready to destroy them, the trickiest part about the next four months could be just surviving.

Warning: Contains a “for hire” bad boy with a filthy mouth, an awkward guy with a penchant for BDSM, a hypochondriac butler who won’t shut up, a dog called Alcide, and a lot of hot and dirty M/M sex.

4.5 Sweet baby jebus that was HAWT stars

I’m paying for your time, your exclusivity, your undivided attention. I’m a busy guy. I know what I want and I want you.

So what can I tell you after finishing this book?

Is in my pants. Sweet mother of cock but this book was hot. Tyler, Haris, Tyler and Haris

Books like this sometimes make me wish I was a gay man. What? Too much?

But I digress…

Tyler is in debt and is desperate enough to do some extreme things to get out of them. So what if he sells his body to whoever pays to attend the very exclusive Saturday night sex parties if they will help him pay off his school loans? Everyone has a price. But his deep-rooted fear of being in debt dates back to one of his darkest childhood memories, and it keeps him going.

Tyler doesn’t let anyone get close. They may get his body for the night, but never anything else. His focus, emotion, and passion all go towards his one and only love, his music.

When Haris first spots Tyler playing the piano at a concert, he knows he has to have him. So when he follows him after the event and rescues him from a BDSM scene gone bad at one of the parties Tyler attend, he knows just how to hook him. 20,000 plus 10,000 for clothes for his time, his body, and his exclusivity.

Tyler sees a way to get out of his debt and to slake his lust for the gorgeous Haris, so he agrees and then it’s a whole lot of

I love Barbara Elsborg’s writing. I’ve been a fan since my first book by her An Ordinary Girl. Her books are always the perfect mix of suspense, mystery, quirky humor, broken yet endearing characters and lots and lots of super HOT SEX.

And this book was certainly no exception. Just add in a sarcastic and hilarious butler, and it was perfect. I was riveted from the very first chapter. The mystery and suspense sucked me in, and the connection and sexual chemistry between Tyler and Haris just sealed the deal. I didn’t want this book to end.

Of course what’s a Barbara Elsborg book without a little…or a lot of angst and drama. And this book really delivered on that end. I loved the angst for the majority of the book. It’s no secret that I have a soft spot for the assholes, and Haris had his moments. Truthfully, there were times where he would do something that left me feeling a little

You know what they say about assumptions right, Haris? Maybe you should take note. Then you wouldn’t continue doing it again, and again, and again, and AGAIN!

Then there was the last 10% of the book. Holy drama overload, batman. I think I may have reached my quota for drama tolerance at 85%. We had a man out for revenge, someone threatening Tyler’s life, someone coming after Haris, some drama between Haris and Tyler. I think I was at my limit when I hit the last few chapters.

And then Haris just goes and does something and I was PISSED. I mean really pissed. I’m talking

PISSED

But then alls well that ends well. He did make up for it in the end, and I was really satisfied with the way he did it. So if you’re a fan of super steamy, well written MM romance filled with action, mystery and suspense, I highly recommend this book.

Spotlight, Interview & Giveaway: The Billionaire Banker series by Georgia Le Carre

It’s no secret that I’m a self proclaimed book junky and nothing gets my girly bits tingling more than a super steamy book. What? At least I’m honest about it. I read a lot, and truthfully it takes quite a bit for me to pause and think to myself, “Wow, this book is amazing!” So imagine my surprise when I got that from the contemporary debut novel The Billionaire Banker (click on the link to read my review). This book sucked me in from the very first chapter and I was completely enraptured in the story, the characters, everything! Now some of you might look at that title and think to yourself, ‘been there, read that’, right? WRONG! Has this type of trope been done before? Most definitely. But Georgia Le Carre put a fantastic and original spin on it to make it that much better. In short, I can’t recommend theses books enough. (And not only because the awesome heroine shares my name :))

And now with the highly anticipated release of book 2 in the series, Forty 2 Days, I simply had to share this fantastic series with all of you.

The Billionaire Banker (book 1 in the series)

When Lana Bloom learns the devastating news that her mother is dying, she is faced with a terrible dilemma. The one thing that can save her is the one thing she does not have. 
For young and Innocent Lana, The unthinkable is her only choice.

When she walks through the door of that exclusive restaurant she has no idea of the seismic shift her life is about to take, for the highest bidder will not be the rich man she has accompanied.

Fate drops her at the feet of the deeply mysterious and dazzlingly gorgeous American banker, Blake Law Barrington. Throbbing with raw masculinity and arrogance, this is a man who owns all that he pursues.

And now he wants her.

Lana cannot deny she is both intrigued and intoxicated by the world Blake inhabits and the smouldering passion he stirs in her body, but she is also fearful for this man is addictive and right now she is very vulnerable. She knows she should focus only on the arrangement, but how can she?

When he has opened a door that cannot be closed…

Forty 2 Days (book 2 in the Billionaire Banker series)

Beyond the seductive power of immense wealth lies… Dark Secrets

Devastatingly handsome billionaire, Blake Law Barrington was Lana Blooms first and only love. From the moment they touched his power was overwhelming. Their arrangement quickly developed into a passionate romance that captivated her heart and took her on an incredible sexual journey she never wanted to end.
The future together looked bright until Lana made a terrible mistake. So, she did the only thing she could… she ran.

Away from her incredible life, away from the man of her dreams, but she should have known a man such as Blake Law Barrington was impossible to escape. Now, he’s back in her life and determined that she should taste the bitterness of his pain.

Shocked at how rough the sex has become and humiliated that she is actually participating so willingly in her punishment, she despairs if she will ever feel the warmth of his touch—the solidity of his trust again? And even if she can win his trust, loyalties are yet to be decided, and secrets to be revealed—secrets that will test them both to their limits.

Will Lana be able to tear down the walls that surround Blake’s heart, and break him free of the brutal power of immense wealth?

Can Blake hold on to Lana’s heart when she discovers the enormity of the dark secrets that inhabit the Barrington family?

Lana has always believed that love conquers all. She is about to test that belief…

And
Bessotted (The conclusion to Blake and Lana’s story), coming April 29, 2014
Georgia Le Carre also happens to be one the most sweetest, gracious and down to earth authors I have ever had the pleasure of working with. She was nice enough to let little ol’ me convince her into an interview.
What’s your greatest character strength?
I haven’t truly tested it, so don’t quote me later, but I think I’m a forgiving person.
What’s your weakest character trait?
Bone-lazy tendencies.
Why do you write?
Because it is miles easier than working in slaughter-house or a chicken farm.
Who or what influences your writing?
Everything influences my writing.  What I read in the paper tomorrow could totally slant my work next week or next month.
Who or what influenced your writing over the years?
The great names have always had an impact on me.  The beauty of their sentence structure, the purity of their thought processes, and the total clarity of their expression.
What is your greatest strength as a writer?
Speed.
Who do you admire?
The rare person who stands up for what is right no matter what it costs them. 
What is your favourite quality about yourself?
My ability to move on quickly when things go pear-shaped.
What is your least favourite quality about yourself?
My inability to stay and fight when things go pear-shaped.
How has your upbringing influenced your writing?
“Give me a child until he is seven and I will show you the man.”
Are your characters real people?
Most of my characters are composites of people I have known or my own fantasies of how people should behave in a given circumstance.  I once met a young lady in a repressed country who told me she would rather jump out of a high window and kill herself than give her virginity to any other than her husband. 


So I asked her, ‘But what if it was to save your mother life?’
She shook her head sadly.  ‘My mother would understand and approve of my decision not to give up my virginity in exchange for her life.’


Even though I was very young then, her words did not sit well with me.  In my mind she is Lana expressing the true ideals of love.
Did you learn anything from writing this book and what was it?
Yes, I learned about human frailty.  How easily the human mind is led by another, by that which it perceives to be stronger than it.  We are sheep herded by wolves.
If you could leave your readers with one bit of wisdom, what would you want it to be?
Do not just look, see.
When you end your career, stop writing, and look back on your life, what thoughts would you like to have?
Glad that it is finally over and excited to embrace whatever lies on the other side.
What do you hope your obituary will day about you?
She had fun.
So there you have it, my little dirty birds. A fantastic series and an even more fantastic author. I highly recommend you check it out. And you can connect with Georgia on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/georgia.lecarre

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Spotlight & Giveaway: Reaper’s Legacy by Joanna Wylde

Marie doesn’t need a complication like Horse. The massive, tattooed, badass biker who shows up at her brother’s house one afternoon doesn’t agree. He wants Marie on his bike and in his bed. Now.

But Marie just left her abusive jerk of an ex-husband and she’s not looking for a new man. Especially one like Horse—she doesn’t know his real name or where he lives, she’s ninety percent certain he’s a criminal and that the “business” he talks with her brother isn’t website design. She needs him out of her life, which would be a snap if he’d just stop giving her mind-blowing orgasms.

Horse is part of the Reapers Motorcycle Club, and when he wants something, he takes it. What he wants is Marie, but she’s not interested in becoming “property of”.

Then her brother steals from the club. Marie can save him by giving Horse what he wants—at home, in public, on his bike… If she’s a very, very good girl, she’ll get lots more of those orgasms only he can offer, and he’ll let her brother live.
Maybe.

A Romantica® contemporary erotic romance from Ellora’s CaveSynopsis

Reaper’s Legacy

WELCOME TO THE CLUB

Eight years ago, Sophie gave her heart—and her virginity—to Zach Barrett on a night that couldn’t have been less romantic or more embarrassing. Zach’s step-brother, a steely-muscled, tattooed biker named Ruger, caught them in the act, getting a peep show of Sophie he’s never forgotten.

She may have lost her dignity that fateful night, but Sophie also gained something precious—her son Noah. Unfortunately, Zach’s a deadbeat dad, leaving Ruger to be Noah’s only male role model. When he discovers Sophie and his nephew living in near poverty, Ruger takes matters into his own hands—with the help of the Reapers Motorcycle Club—to give them a better life.

Living with outlaw bikers wasn’t Sophie’s plan for her son, but Ruger isn’t giving her a choice. He’ll be there for Noah, whether she wants him or not. But Sophie does want him, has always wanted him. Now she’ll learn that taking a biker to bed can get a girl dirty in every way…

And get ready to meet all that is Ruger on Jan 28!!

About the author

Joanna Wylde is a freelance writer and voracious reader. You can visit her website at www.joannawylde.net.

Connect with Joanna

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Review: The Billionaire Banker (The Billionaire Banker #1) by Georgia Le Carre

When Lana Bloom learns the devastating news that her mother is dying, she is faced with a terrible dilemma. The one thing that can save her is the one thing she does not have.
For young and Innocent Lana, The unthinkable is her only choice.

When she walks through the door of that exclusive restaurant she has no idea of the seismic shift her life is about to take, for the highest bidder will not be the rich man she has accompanied.

Fate drops her at the feet of the deeply mysterious and dazzlingly gorgeous American banker, Blake Law Barrington. Throbbing with raw masculinity and arrogance, this is a man who owns all that he pursues.

And now he wants her.

Lana cannot deny she is both intrigued and intoxicated by the world Blake inhabits and the smouldering passion he stirs in her body, but she is also fearful for this man is addictive and right now she is very vulnerable. She knows she should focus only on the arrangement, but how can she?

When he has opened a door that cannot be closed…

4.5 Completely Captivating Stars

My world is ugly and corrupt.   It only looks good from the outside. When our time is over, I must return you the way I found you, pure and innocent. Let me hide a little while longer in your world.

WOW
I am completely blown away, utterly captivated, and totally sucked in by this story.
Now be honest, you probably took a look at that cover, blurb, and title and thought to yourself that this is yet another mostly unoriginal take on the extremely overdone plot line, right? A rich and jaded hero meets the naive virginal heroine, They have some sex, they face some obstacles, they have some more sex, and then it all gets wrapped up in a pretty little bow. Well that is precisely what I thought going into this. I couldn’t have been more wrong.

There were a few Britishisms that I wasn’t familiar with, and the writing style took some getting used to, but once I did I simply couldn’t put this book down. You know how sometimes you read a book and you just know that this author was meant to write? Georgia was that author for me. She is able to take words and weave them together into an intricate story that almost has a poetic and lyrical feel to it. I was completely enraptured in the story, the writing, and the characters. But enough of my gush mode…

What would you do if you were desperate? If the mother you love more has less than a few weeks to live due to stage 4 cancer? If you knew that all that keeps you from the potential cure with an unorthodox doctor is a few thousand dollars that you just don’t have? Would you sell the only thing you have to barter with, you body? That is precisely what Lana Bloom does.

Having grown up in poverty, luck doesn’t seem to be on her side. Particularly when the first person to court her proposal is a sadistic man with some extremely brutal tastes. But when Lana catches the eye of the very rich and even more jaded Blake, she sees the answer to her problems.

Blake comes from old money. There is nothing and no one that he cannot have, buy, or fuck. Life has left him cold, brutal, and jaded. But when he sees the young beauty at the restaurant he knows that he has to have her…at least until he gets bored with her.

The arrangement? 3 months of having her however, whenever, and wherever he wants. The price? One hundred thousand pounds.

I was afraid that Lana being 19 and innocent, she would grate with me with her naivety. But while she may have been innocent and naive, it was in a very endearing way. I soon found myself forgetting that she was only 19. I found myself growing to like her the more I read. She had a hard time coming to terms with the arrangement, and Blake wasn’t exactly flowery or romantic with his explanations.

I also found myself getting more and more invested in their connection. The pacing was perfect. There was no insta-anything (well maybe insta-lust on Blake’s behalf). Their relationship wasn’t smooth or perfect. The more I read about Lana ad Blake, the more I grew to like them.

The steam level was perfect. It wasn’t overdone but just the perfect amount. And the way it was written was equal parts erotic and beautiful in a very effortless way.

Suddenly like a whip passion curls and races through her body, surprising her with its ferocity. It erupts in a strangled cry that surprises even him. He looks at her possessively, proudly, as if he has branded her. He is the owner of her lust.   In his hands and mouth and body he holds her pleasure. He said he wanted to fuck her senseless and he does. His pace becomes punishingly hard and fast, but she loves the pounding. Something is billowing through her; it feels as though it could bring some kind of release. When it comes it is a riotous, glorious tidal wave that rips through her.   She becomes one with him, one body, one mind, one soul.


Before long feelings begin to enter the equation for Lana. As much as she knows that it’s a dead end and will only lead her to heartbreak, she can’t help but fall for Blake.

What I truly loved is how realistic the turnaround for Blake and his feelings was. He was cold and brutal in the beginning, but ultimately things begin to get complicated when he finds his feelings taking a drastic turn.

This book was so much more than a simple story of billionaire falling for the innocent virgin. It had a dark undercurrent to it which was essentially what fully captured my attention. I spent the whole book waiting for the other shoe to drop…and when it did…WOW.

Was it perfect? No. There were moments where the transitions weren’t clear and I found myself getting confused about who’s POV I was currently reading. But this was a small speck that I soon found myself completely forgetting. It’s not often that I find a book that keeps me up all night, unable to put it down until I know what happens next.

I am blown away that this is Georgia’s debut contemporary romance novel.

Was it steamy? Hell yes.
Was it overdone and oversexed? Not even close.
Is it a book I’d re-read? In a heartbeat
Was there a cliffhanger? Yes. But luckily book 2 comes out Jan 24, and the author has let me know we can expect a HEA for Blake and Lana there.

This book took me out of my 2 week book slump. I simply cannot recommend it enough. Georgia, dear, I am kicking myself for not reading this sooner. I will be stalking your upcoming releases and you have completely won me over my jaded little heart.

Now I am done with my fangirling episode. All I can say is read this book! Read it! Hopefully you’ll love it as much as I did. And I thank you

**ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review.**

Review: ★Broken Dove★ by Kristen Ashley

Far too young, Apollo Ulfr lost Ilsa, his wife, the love of his life and the mother of his two children. The grief of her loss does not settle in his soul, it solders to it. But when he discovers there is a parallel universe where his wife may have a twin, he feels there’s hope and sets about bringing her to his world so he can have her back.

But Ilsa Ulfr of our world is married to the parallel universe’s twin, Pol, who is not a good man. Not in any way. She’s on the run from him and the last thing she wants is to be transported to a fantastical world and be forced to take his side as his wife, even if he is not Pol. And Apollo finds the broken, bitter Ilsa nothing like his beloved and he further wants nothing to do with her.

But darkness is looming and evil is amassing. Apollo must protect his land and keep his family safe, including the new Ilsa.
Review-DGR4.5 stars
All my life, I’ve never been happy. So I never imagined even being that way. Until now.

Now THAT is what a Kristen Ashley book is supposed to be like. Are you taking notes Forever? Because you should.

Know everything that you love about KA books? Oh you know what I’m talking about; the descriptiveness, the sexual tension, the super hot Alphas, the sassy and quirky heroines, the action, the steam, the writing, the inability to put it down even though it’s crazy long. Ringing a bell? Yea, that. All of which have been missing in her recent releases through her publisher for me.

I was ready to give up after Kaleidoscope ended up being a 2 star read for me. I began to think that maybe one of my all time favorite authors may be starting to lose her touch. Then I read this book, and I realized it truly is her publisher that seems to be dimming my enjoyment of her books for me.

I loved it. While The Golden Dynasty continues to be my favorite book in this series, this book still hit the spot.

For those that are like me and have been anticipating this book hoping it lives up to the promise, rest easy, kick back, and be ready to enjoy KA at her finest.

Maddie, look at me and listen.
“Come closer,” I begged.
“I need to gag you and tie you to the bed,” he declared.
Oh God.
Awesome
“Yes,” I breathed, pressing closer to him again.

Got your attention now, didn’t I? Good.

So what can I tell you about Apollo?

8127919._SX540_Seems to sum it up quite nicely. He was the perfect combination of asshole, sweet, possessive, protective, dirty talking sex on a stick.

The one thing that I’ve grown to love in Kristen Ashley books is that level of hate/sexual tensions between the hero in heroine tend to have in the beginning. It was no smooth sailing for these two, not even close.
Apollo is still getting over the death of his wife. Ilsa is running from a past she never wants to repeat. Together they had to work through quite a bit to find their common ground.

Ilsa was such a great heroine. She was quirky, funny, endearing, and just a little bit broken.

When Apollo finally gets his head out of his ass and begins to work on their relationship…well let’s just say he did it WELL.

Why not 5 stars then? Well, I wasn’t as enthralled with this book as I was with Golden Dynasty. It was still fantastic, don’t get me wrong. Just not quite 5 star material.

Would I re-read it? Maybe…certain parts MOST DEFINITELY.

I can’t wait to get my greedy little hands on Pol’s book now. And I’m keeping my fingers crossed for more of KA’s self published awesomeness.

ARC Review: Reaper’s Legacy by Joanna Wylde

 WELCOME TO THE CLUB

Eight years ago, Sophie gave her heart—and her virginity—to Zach Barrett on a night that couldn’t have been less romantic or more embarrassing. Zach’s step-brother, a steely-muscled, tattooed biker named Ruger, caught them in the act, getting a peep show of Sophie he’s never forgotten.

She may have lost her dignity that fateful night, but Sophie also gained something precious—her son Noah. Unfortunately, Zach’s a deadbeat dad, leaving Ruger to be Noah’s only male role model. When he discovers Sophie and his nephew living in near poverty, Ruger takes matters into his own hands—with the help of the Reapers Motorcycle Club—to give them a better life.

Living with outlaw bikers wasn’t Sophie’s plan for her son, but Ruger isn’t giving her a choice. He’ll be there for Noah, whether she wants him or not. But Sophie does want him, has always wanted him. Now she’ll learn that taking a biker to bed can get a girl dirty in every way…

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Review4.5 stars 
The man was like heroin – seductive, addictive and a damned good way to wake up dead.
8047669._SX540_
I have been impatiently waiting for the 2nd book in the Reapers MC series ever since Horse made my happy place tingle in Reaper’s Property. So suffice it to say I was just a wee bit excited when I got my greedy little hands on the ARC of this book.
I was also a little nervous going into this. I mean, how would Ruger measure up to the all mighty Horse? Is he going to have a Godzilla sized cock? I just had to know! So I bet you’re all curious then too, huh? Well prepare yourself for the tatted and pierced deliciousness that is Ruger, my friends. And in case you’re wondering if those piercings happen to be in the place you’re hoping it’ll be…you would be correct.

So what can I tell you after finishing this book?

It did not disappoint!

When Sophie decides to give her virginity to her high school boyfriend Zach, she doesn’t quite get the experience she hopes for. What can possibly be worse than a less than wonderful first time? Having your boyfriend’s dangerously hot brother catch you in the act. The only good thing that comes out of the experience is her son, Noah.

Now eight years later Sophie is struggling to make ends meet. Being a teenage mother wasn’t easy, but with Zach being a dead beat dad all the financial responsibility falls on her. The only male role model Noah has is Zach’s brother, Ruger. When Ruger gets wind of Sophie’s situation, he’s determined to protect her. But the last thing she wants is to be a part of his dangerous life and his MC.

I really loved Sophie. It’s great to get a tough and witty heroine with a backbone that can dish it out as well as she takes it. Ruger was growly and domineering but she never made it easy for him. The banter and sexual tension between them was utterly delicious. I devoured the first half of this book in one sitting. I simply couldn’t put it down until they finally got down to business. What? I never denied this 🙂

But I digress…

Ruger. What can I tell you about the complete deliciousness that was Ruger? He was just the kind of alpha I love; posessive, jealous, slightly (OK maybe a lot) domineering, sexy as hell, and good gawd but can the man get you all hot and bothered with the way he talks.

8047674._SX540_
 Ruger is determined to make Sophie his. He’s been feeling the combustible lust between them since day one, and he’s done fighting it. But Sophie refuses to give in. She doesn’t want to be a part of his life in the MC, especially with her son.

But you can only fight chemistry like that for so long and it’s not long before clothes start flying. The man is built and pierced for pleasure.

I found the metal bar piercing his glans- two hard, metal balls capped it, top and bottom.
“Imagine those deep inside you. Firs I’ll rub them against your clit, and then the’ll hit your G-spot the whole damned time I’m riding you. Un-fucking-believable, babe.”

What woman in her right mind can possibly turn down that?

But while the chemistry between them is undeniable, Sophie is looking for something that Ruger is not willing to give.

You want the freedom to sleep around. I’m not willing to give you that- I want more. Sounds like we have a fundamental difference of opinion here, and I’m not going to try and change you. But I’ll tell you one thing, Ruger- I deserve to be with someone who gives a shit about me, as a person. Someone who values me enough not to fuck other women. I’d rather be alone the rest of my life than settle for what you’re offering. Consider yourself a hell of a booty call, but that’s it. We clear?”

Right around the 50% mark of the book I started to get a little irritated with both Sophie and Ruger and the decisions and choices they made. There were times I wish I could reach through my kindle and shake some sense into both of them. But luckily, it didn’t end up bothering me too much by the end.

This book felt a little grittier to me than the first one. We got a much closer look at the MC life and the members, which I really enjoyed. We also got a lot more of all the side characters from the previous books.

The side characters introduced in this book were awesome. I loved Sophie’s friend Kimber. She was the comedic relief for most of the book. The banter between the women, and especially with Kimber was hilarious.

How am I supposed to live the single life vicariously if I don’t get any details?
I shook my head and shrugged mournfully.
“I’m doing my part. I tell you everything.”
“And don’t think I don’t appreciate it,” she said, tearing up slightly. We gave each other a drunken hug.

This was a sexy, gritty, and action packed ride that you will never want to end. Joanna Wylde just seems to get better with each new book. The fact that it was in dual POVs only made it that much better for me.

As frustrated as I was with Sophie and Ruger at times, I think the ending is what fixed it for me. I found that to be a very fitting way for things to happen.

Then there was the set up for the next book. And now to wait until June 2014?!!! ARE YOU FREAKING KIDDING ME??!!!

On a side note, for those that are wondering if there is cheating in this book: (Highlight to see)
NO

Quotes were taken from the ARC version of the book and may change upon publication

**ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review**

ARC Review: Rebel by Skye Jordan

Sassy, smart, and sexy, former supermodel-turned-tech guru Rubi Russo has it all—looks, money, confidence and freedom. Her life is a whirlwind of fast cars and fleeting affairs—and she likes it that way. With a past like Rubi’s, forever isn’t part of her vocabulary. So when studly Renegade stuntman Wes Lawson wants to take their friendship to the next level, she’s all out.

Raised a simple country-boy, Wes knows the brazen Rubi isn’t his type. But after spending time with her, he discovers she’s everything he’s ever wanted in a woman. To win her wild rebel heart, he’ll have to prove he sees behind her smokescreen to all the goodness she tries to hide. Then it’s just a matter of crushing her fears, shattering her barriers, and convincing her that loving him is everything she’s been missing in her life, too.

Piece of cake.

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4.5 I’m craving chocolate ice cream stars

She was in deep, deep trouble. Because she wanted him more than she wanted to turn him away.

What can I tell you about this series aside from Skye Jordan is the queen of steam. Holy hell but the woman can write one hell of a sex scene. I thought book one was hot, but let me tell you; this book? SCORCHING


I wasn’t sure how I felt about Rubi and Wes after the last book. Wes is a Southern good ole boy that likes his girls sweet, and Rubi is the furthest thing from sweet or demure as you can get. Yet somehow, they worked. Not only that, but I fell in complete and utter lust with Wes. The man was just everything with sprinkles on top. I just want to lick him. Everywhere. Is that so wrong? But I digress.

Wes and Rubi have a scorching undercurrent of attraction running between them. Rubi is determined to keep them in the friendship zone since she knows she’s not capable of a relationship. With a childhood like hers, I can’t say I blame her. In short?

But Wes is determined to pour even more gasoline on their already flaming attraction. So knowing that it’s inevitable for them to finally give into to it, Rubi comes up with a plan; friends with benefits.

Now many of you may be wandering

Well if the health insurance he provides her with comes in the form of his perfect cock…then sure…let’s call it that.

This book had one of the HOTTEST scenes I have ever read in a book this year. I will never again be able to look at chocolate ice cream without getting a hot flash ever again.

Seriously Wes, my lady boner is in full salute to your utter sexy deliciousness.

You may be a nice southern boy but you’re a rebel deep down. Ha! See what I did there?

But I digress again.

Where was I?

Ah yes.

Wes

Did it work? No? Damn!

And back to business.

While Wes was utter perfection, Rubi had a moment…or 2…or 3…OK a few, where I wanted to punch her in the ovaries for being so stupid. Her back and forth of running away from her feelings for Wes did grate with me quite a bit. While I understand why she was the way she was, it was hard to accept it with how perfect Wes was.

Other than that, I really enjoyed the second installment of this series. It seems to just be getting hotter and hotter with each book. We get to catch up with Jax and Lexi and see where they are in their life, which was nice. And Rubi did redeem herself at the end, even if it was at the very end. But ultimately, Wes just made this book for me. I loved the hell out of him.

I can’t wait to see what Skye Jordan has up her sleeve next and which yummy Renegade we can look forward to. Hopefully the heroine will be Rachel. I really enjoyed her quirkiness in this book.

**ARC courtesy of publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review**

ARC Review: Blue Lines by Toni Aleo

Opposites do more than just attract in Toni Aleo’s latest Nashville Assassins novel about a very bad boy and the good girl he can’t resist.

The instant Piper Allen sees Erik Titov, she wants him—wants his rock-hard body, sure, but the strength and mystery that lies behind that superstar hockey jock demeanor, too. So when he sidles up to her at a bar and slinks his arm around her waist, she’s lost. What follows is the wildest night of her life . . . followed by inevitable heartbreak the next morning. And then, a few weeks later, a very big surprise: two blue lines on a pregnancy test.

Only a check to the head could make Erik fall for a nice girl like Piper. But since their crazy-sexy night together, he’s been trying to forget about her alluring body by falling into bed with every woman in Nashville, and it’s not working. So when Piper shows up at his house with a baby-bomb to drop, it doesn’t take much for Erik to suggest the nuclear option: marriage. While it’s supposed to be all for show, the second they say “I do,” the ice between them starts to melt into sizzling steam.

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Review
4.5 stars
“You need someone to love you and you need to know that you deserve that love, and I want you to let me be that someone.”
I love a good sports romance, add into this mix a sexy, tatted, very man-whorish hockey player and I’m on pervy cloud 9. But this was no smooth ride for me. As much as I wanted to love Erik, I’m pretty sure I wanted to kick him in the nuts more often than not. He had so many things going for him, and then he’d open his mouth and the things he’d say to Piper just had me going

But all that aside, I spent the end of this book in tears. The last part of this book made me cry silly, crocodile tears of joy. I loved it so much.

Piper has been in love with the sexy Erik Titov for months. So when the opportunity to give into their mutual passion shows itself, she doesn’t even think twice. The last thing that she expects is for Erik to leave, and to leave her with a plus sign surprise after their night together.

Erik hasn’t been able to put the alluring Piper out of his mind since that night. But he knows that he’s not the right man for her. So he moves on the only way he knows how, between the legs of many, many, many different women.

So when Piper shows up on his door step with the shocking news that he’s to be a daddy, suffice it to say he doesn’t take it very well. I swear, the things that this man would say to Piper had me screaming

Because I wanted to kick his man-whoring ass. To say that he was a dick to her for the majority of the book would be a gross understatement. Particularly when he proposed that they get married for the sake of image. Really Erik! Way to take the romance out of things!

Piper on the other hand was an amazing heroine. I loved her from the very beginning. Her strength and the way she cared for Erik through thick and thin really got to me. She was such a likable and endearing heroine.

Now as much as I wanted to hate Erik, there were moments where his vulnerability would shine through and we got to see the real man behind the facade. And little by little I began to warm up to him. When the truth behind his childhood all came to light, I can definitely say I understood exactly why he was so hesitant to fall for Piper.

Their story was filled with many bumps, but it was also filled with sweet and steamy moments. I lived for the times where Erik’s sweet side would shine through. And then that ending; perfection!

So as frustrating as some parts of this book were, and as much as I wanted to throttle Erik, I still really enjoyed it and looking forward to the next installment of the Assasins series.

Review: Otherwise Alone (Evan Arden Trilogy #1) by Shay Savage

Lieutenant Evan Arden sits in a shack in the middle of nowhere, waiting for orders that will send him back home – if he ever gets them. Other than his loyal Great Pyrenees, there’s no one around to break up the monotony. The tedium is excruciating, but it is suddenly interrupted when a young woman stumbles up his path.
He has two choices – pick her off from a distance with his trusty sniper-rifle, or dare let her approach his cabin and enter his life.

Why not? It’s been ages, and he is otherwise alone…

4.5 Stars
The days are long and the nights are longer, until a young woman suddenly appears on my doorstep. I’m all for getting a little – it’s been ages – but she makes me long for more.

Can you get enough story in 56 pages to capture your interest and leave you begging for more? In the case of this book, abso-fucking-lutely. I was hooked line and sinker.

Evan is not a good guy. Currently in exile after a job gone bad, he’s just waiting until his boss gives him the order to go home…if that ever happens. With no one but the desert heat and his dog to keep him company, he waits. Until she suddenly stumbles unto his path.

Otherwise alone, with a stranded and beautiful woman, what’s a man to do?

The steam level in the short page count number was incredible. Shay Savage knows how to write one sexy ass hero


Go on,” I say with my eyes locked on hers. “You want to.”
“I do?”
“Yes.”
“And how do you know that?”  
“I’m a very good judge of character,” I inform her.


Seriously Evan

Then there were the steamy as hell sex scenes.


What the hell are you doing?” she cries.
“I’m going to tear your clothes off and fuck you so hard you won’t walk right for a week,” I respond. “You want me to stop?”


Stop?! Are you crazy?!!!

Did I happen to mention this is entirely in Evan’s POV? Loved that.

As for the ending?

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Review: Otherwise Occupied (Evan Arden Trilogy #2) by Shay Savage

Evan Arden is a hit man for a Chicago mob boss. He lives his life day to day with the company of his dog, Odin. He has to work hard to get back into his boss’s good graces, but the target proves to be difficult. As demons of his past begin to haunt him, he seeks the comfort of sleep from an unlikely candidate, but will confiding in her be his undoing?​

​He’s struggling to forget his past, and keep himself Otherwise Occupied.


4.5 Holy Shit Stars

Roses are red, Violets are blue. I’m just a fucked up hit man, and nothing rhymes with that.

This book gets a star just for having one of the best depictions of my home town I’ve read to date.

It gets another star for being entirely in Evan’s POV and being written in such a way that allows you inside his mind in such a flawless way, the story completely enthralls you. The rest of the stars? For an incredibly told story. Period.

The second book in the Evan Arden Trilogy gives us a deeper look at the man behind the job.

This is not a love story or a romance, so don’t be hoping to get that here. You won’t find it.

Months after leaving the desert of Arizona and a woman that captured his interest in a way that no other ever has, Evan is now back in Chicago and trying to get his way back into his boss’s good graces. But being the hit man for one of Chicago’s biggest mob bosses is no easy task, especially when the demons from his past begin to surface

Add into the mix recurring nightmares and lack of sleep, and you have yourself one volatile hit man. He may be good at what he does, but that doesn’t mean it’s not taking a toll on him


Tired of playing this role, tired of just moving through the city like I was some kind of god or demon here to bring Rinaldo Moretti’s version of justice to those who crossed my path.  None of it even mattered to me – all I got out of it was a wad of cash and a twisted idea of loyalty to someone who told me I did a good job and occasionally called me “son.”


Every day finds Evan with an even smaller grasp on his sanity.

So does he finally crack? Guess you’ll have to read to find out because I refuse to ruin this book for you by giving away any spoilers.
What I can tell you, is that it was a whole lot of

Followed by

With an ending that will leave you feeling a little like

I devoured this book. Shay Savage did such a fantastic job in her portrayal of Evan I kept forgetting I was reading a book by a female author. Flawlessly written, with a captivating and suspenseful plot, this story will grab hold of you and leave you at the edge of your seat to see what comes next. It’s no light and fluffy read. The author does not gloss over or sugar coat the dark details. But that just adds to the experience.

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