{Minute Romance Review} Royal Mess by Jenna Sutton

 {Romance Review} Royal Mess by Jenna Sutton

From award-winning author Jenna Sutton comes a story of two princes who discover that falling in love is messy...

Prince Leo’s icy demeanor has earned him an amusing nickname—the Polar Prince. Unfortunately, the king doesn’t see the humor. If Leo wants to secure the throne of Alsania, he must improve his image. Participating in an organ donation campaign seems like a good start. He expects to donate his organs on his deathbed, so he’s surprised to be matched with a complete stranger who needs his help now.

Tessa Lulach hates to admit it, but she’s a damsel in distress. When a handsome prince offers to save her with a hunk of his liver, she joyfully accepts. She can’t wait to feel like herself again and return to her beloved flower shop. Instead, her identity is revealed, and the quiet life she loves is turned upside down.

As Leo and Tessa deal with the nosy public and ruthless paparazzi, she realizes the Polar Prince is much warmer than he seems—scorching hot, in fact. He willingly gave her a part of his liver, but can he give her his whole heart?

*****

Everyone loves Prince Marco of Alsania, despite his reckless antics … or maybe because of them. So why does sexy schoolteacher Cassie Lulach prefer a boring investment banker over him? Wounded by her indifference, he has an erotic encounter with a masked woman at a royal ball who reminds him of the one he really wants.

After another failed relationship, Cassie is frustrated with immature, inconsiderate guys. Wanting to escape reality, she attends a masquerade ball and finds herself alone with a masked stranger. For the first time in her life, she acts on impulse, only to end up pregnant and absolutely clueless about the identity of her baby’s father.

When Marco learns of Cassie’s pregnancy and her plans to raise the baby alone, he promises to be there for her, hoping she’ll finally see him as more than just a playboy prince. But then he discovers she’s the woman from the masquerade ball and panics. Will the truth destroy his chance to win over Cassie, or will he convince her that they can have their own happily ever after?  (Blurb via Goodreads)

{Details} Kindle Edition, 243 pages. Published May 8th 2018. Provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

{Rating} 3/5 -I liked it!

{Review}

Royal Mess consists of two novella length (read in one sitting) royal romance stories about two sisters how fall for royal princes. 

I really enjoyed Leo and Tessa's love story. The premise was unique - how can you not love the person who saved your life and the characters were endearing (I loved how dedicated Leo was to his heritage, how Tessa was very real).

I love royal romances where the main character falls in love with an ordinary person and to see their struggles, of Leo struggling with whether a woman can see beyond his title to the real person, and of Tessa learning how to deal with life in the spotlight. I was rooting for them all the way and was delighted to see that the novella ended with an epilogue that gave us a view into their happily ever after.

I could not get into book two. I liked what I saw of Cassie in her sister's book but I did not like the premise. Having sex with a masked stranger and getting pregnant is not romantic. That's all I'm going to say about that. Let's just think about Tessa and Leo and how much I liked them.

I'll definitely be on the lookout for future releases by Jenna Sutton.

{eARC Minute Review} Reluctantly Royal (HRH #1) by Gillian Archer

Reluctantly Royal (HRH #1) by Gillian Archer

A bad-boy prince is tamed by a vivacious American beauty in this charming love story.

Officially, the world knows me as His Royal Highness Prince Lucien of Monaco, but you can call me Luc. A long time ago, I vowed never to let my heritage stand in the way of a good time. Now the party’s over.

With the death of my father and my twin brother, I’ve lost a part of my soul — and my freedom. My heartless older brother tells me that not only do I have to settle down, I need to marry a girl with the right bloodlines. AKA, a princess. Yeah, I’ll get right on that... after one last trip to Vegas.

That’s where I meet Hannah. Not only is she gorgeous and down-to-earth, she reminds me what it’s like to live completely in the moment. Plus she has no idea who I really am. Hanging out with the locals, I feel like I can just be myself again. Besides, our chemistry is undeniable — especially after we take things to the next level.

What happens in Vegas is special, and I don’t want it to stay there. But I’ve been keeping a secret that will tear us apart. The last thing I expect, though? Hannah’s been keeping a secret of her own... one that might just bring us together. (Blurb via Goodreads)

{Details} eARC, 1st edition, 229 pages. Published January 16th 2018 by Loveswept. eARC provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

{Rating} 3/5 - I liked it

{Review}

A quick read I enjoyed, but didn't really leave a lasting impression.

Prince Lucien has had a hard time of it. His twin brother and father were bot h killed in a plane crash, his older brother Sovereign Prince Sebastien has turned into an uber-serious task master determined to sacrifice himself and his happiness for his country and thinks Prince Lucien ought to do so too.

Prince Lucien is in Las Vegas on business, feeling the weight of the responsibilities, when he meets Hannah. Their attraction is immediate, the sexual tension palpable, their time together a whirlwind of fun and passion. There are lots of things working against them, making it seem like their happily ever after is doomed, Prince Sebastien, a meddling employee, Hannah's secret, the difference in their stations, the physical distance between their home countries but it was fun to see their journey.

{eARC Minute Review} The Sight (Devil's Isle #2) by Chloe Neill

The Sight (Devil's Isle #2) by Chloe Neill

The paranormal war that engulfed New Orleans seven years ago is over. But the battle for the city is just beginning . . .

Claire Connolly is a Sensitive, infected with magic when the Veil that divides humanity from the world beyond fell. Magic can easily consume and destroy a Sensitive, and if Claire’s secret is discovered she’ll be locked into the walled district of Devil’s Isle along with every other Paranormal left in the city.

Bounty hunter Liam Quinn discovered Claire’s secret, but refused to turn her in. Together they saved New Orleans from the resurgence of magic that nearly destroyed it. But now a dangerous cult is on the rise, and it will take both Claire and Liam—and magical allies within Devil’s Isle’s towering walls—to defeat the occult threat before magic corrupts them both... (Blurb via Goodreads)

{Details} 330 pages. Published August 16th 2016 by NAL Trade. eARC provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

{Rating} 3/5 - I liked it!

{Review} 

After reading and enjoying The Veil, book one in the Devil's Isle series, I was eager to dig into book two. True to Chloe Neill's style The Sight features fabulous world building, well developed characters, and an interesting storyline. There is further development in the Claire/Liam relationship (both good and bad), twists and turns and an ending that had me thinking OMG and wondering what would happen next. If you haven't checked out the Devil's Isle series I recommend you give it a try.

{eARC Minute Review} The List (The List #1) by Tawna Fenske

The List (The List #1) by Tawna Fenske 

It all starts with a list.

A sex list.

Cassie Michaels comes up with a list of naughty experiences to impress her sisters and finally convince them—and herself—she's not just a boring soil scientist. Unfortunately, it also makes Cassie a liar if she doesn't tick off at least some of the kinky exploits before her sister's bachelorette party. Luckily, she's found just the man to help her, starting with number four—sex with an anonymous stranger.

As the owner of a chain of computer shops, Simon Traxel doesn't deal with mundane repairs, but when a brunette with killer green eyes and a list of sexploits frozen across her computer screen shows up at one of his shops, he's ready to get a little hands on.

Simon's more than willing to have some fun helping Cassie turn her made-up adventures into reality. Between steamy public romps that go hilariously awry, and sexy antics with kitchen utensils, getting through a to-do list has never been this much fun. But nearing the last few items means nearing the end of their time together, and Simon isn't ready to let her go... (Blurb via Goodreads)

{Details} ebook, 178 pages. Published January 30th 2017 by Entangled Publishing LLC. eARC provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

{Rating} 4/5 - I really liked it!

{Review}

This book was tons of fun! It was a funny, sexy, quick read. Cassie and Simon were great leads and I adored them. I liked that Cassie and Simon were both serious, smart, conscientious people who could also have fun. Beyond all the sexy times were sweet and serious moments, family drama, and self-discovery. This book had everything I look for in a romance novel (especially the laugh out loud bits) and I enjoyed The List from the first page to the very last. I look forward to reading more books in The List series.

{eARC Minute Review} The Veil (Devil's Isle #1) by Chloe Neill

The Veil (Devil's Isle #1) by Chloe Neill

Seven years ago, the Veil that separates humanity from what lies beyond was torn apart, and New Orleans was engulfed in a supernatural war. Now, those with paranormal powers have been confined in a walled community that humans call the District. Those who live there call it Devil's Isle.

Claire Connolly is a good girl with a dangerous secret: she’s a Sensitive, a human endowed with magic that seeped through the Veil. Claire knows that revealing her skills would mean being confined to Devil’s Isle. Unfortunately, hiding her power has left her untrained and unfocused.

Liam Quinn knows from experience that magic makes monsters of the weak, and he has no time for a Sensitive with no control of her own strength. But when he sees Claire using her powers to save a human under attack—in full view of the French Quarter—Liam decides to bring her to Devil’s Isle and the teacher she needs, even though getting her out of his way isn’t the same as keeping her out of his head.

But when the Veil threatens to shatter completely, Claire and Liam must work together to stop it, or else New Orleans will burn… (Blurb via Goodreads)

{Details} 336 pages. Published August 4th 2015 by NAL Trade. eARC provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

{Rating} 3/5 - I liked it!

{Review}

I love Chloe Neill's Chicagoland vampire series and while reading The Veil I kept comparing Claire to Merit. I enjoyed The Veil, it kept my attention and had me guessing about what would happen next, but I think if I had read this book before the Chicagoland series I would have enjoyed it even more.

Chloe Neill is a fabulous writer. She does a fabulous job with world building, at creating unique storylines and well rounded, multi faceted characters, even the supporting characters. I liked Claire's strength, her will to survive and carry on when she could have chosen an easier route in life. I also liked Liam, the bits and pieces he allows us to see of him, but I wasn't a big fan of his hot and cold feelings towards Claire. I understood his reluctance, given what Claire is, but there was too much waffling for me to really respect him.

I enjoyed the story and look forward to see what happens next in the world of Devil's Isle.

{eARC Minute Review} Drawn to the Wolves by Shari Mikels

Drawn to the Wolves by Shari Mikels

The pack's alpha has finally found his fated mate…and she's terrified of wolves.  
Wolf shifter Callan Mohan has a powerful connection to his pack. As alpha, he can sense if something is wrong—and when he feels panic coming from an unknown source, his instincts tell him she's someone to be protected at all costs.
Rescuing a stranger from an unexpected confrontation with two wolf shifters is easy. Helping her move from fear to acceptance of the animals—and him—is a challenge.
Kate Ballard's attraction to her mysterious rescuer is instant. That she falls for Callan so quickly isn't surprising—his strong, confident presence puts her at ease, and the strange connection she has to him makes her feel safe almost immediately. He's the man she didn't know she was waiting for.
It's only a matter of time before Callan has to tell Kate the truth. And find out, once and for all, if her love for him is enough to overcome her fear. (Blurb via Goodreads)

{Details} eARC. 105 pages. May 22nd 2017 by Carina Press. Review copy provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

{Rating} 3/5 - I liked it!

{Review}

A paranormal romance novella about an alpha shifter who falls in love with a woman terrified of the other half of himself. Kate's a woman who is looking for a new life. She's left her job, is staying at a bed and breakfast, is out in the woods, ends up following wildlife and finds herself in trouble. Callen comes to her rescue, a man whose voice she's dreamed of. Things move quickly, Kate can't help falling for the wonderful Callen (he's a great hero, strong, protective, loving), but Callen's keeping secrets. Drawn to the Wolves is a jam packed story you can read in one sitting and get a happily ever after.

(eARC Minute Review) The Girl's Got Secrets (Forbidden Men #7) by Linda Kage

The Girl's Got Secrets (Forbidden Men #7) by Linda Kage

Here’s the same old “girl posing as a boy” story but with a rock-n-roll twist.

Remy Curran dreams of one day being in a band, except the group she wants to join refuses to hire a girl drummer. So, she auditions as a guy...and makes the cut.

Becoming “Sticks,” a member of Non-Castrato, isn’t quite what she dreamed it would be, though. She spends most of her time keeping up the subterfuge and learning how to walk, talk, act, and drink like a man.

But what’s even harder to deal with is acting oblivious when the band’s heartthrob lead singer, Asher Hart, treats her like one of the guys and not a woman. She never imagined he’d be so much more than a pretty face with a nice voice. But he’s better than perfect. He’s perfect for her.

When love and lies combine, Remy must keep up the act or lose everything. But who knew lying to reach one dream could prevent you from attaining an even bigger dream? (Blurb via Goodreads)

{Details} ebook, 426 pages. Published November 28th 2015 by Self-Published. Source: eARC provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

{Rating} 3/5 - I liked it!

{Review}

 

I liked the premise - even if some elements were over the top and a bit unbelievable. Remy has gotten herself into quite a sticky situation. She's a talented drummer and deserved to have her shot auditioning for the band so I can't really blame her for doing whatever it took. But once in the band, once she gets close to Asher, she realizes she may have gotten in the band but all her lies may cost her everything. Poor Asher has a sad story and the more I learned about him, the more I liked him. I loved seeing his relationship with Sticks, with Pick, with Mozart. My favorite part of the book was after the truth came out, seeing how both Remy and Asher deal with the fallout, with forgiveness, with the hurts of the past and finding their way to happiness.

Dark Carousel (Dark #30) by Christine Feehan 

In the new Carpathian novel from #1 New York Times bestselling author Christine Feehan, a woman falls prey to the seductive allure of the past—and a vampire warrior’s intoxicating embrace...

The moment Charlotte Vintage walks into his club, Tariq Asenguard’s blood is set on fire. The ancient Carpathian had given up hope of finding his lifemate, but now he will do anything to make Charlotte his own. What Tariq doesn’t know is that Charlotte is using herself and her best friend as bait—to try to draw out the bloodthirsty killers who have already murdered Charlotte’s brother and mentor.

Charlotte is familiar with Tariq. Not only is he one of the richest and most eligible bachelors in the city, but he’s also a renowned collector of old carousel horses, which Charlotte restores. Their shared passion opens Charlotte up to trusting him with her life and with the desire she can no longer control. But it also makes her vulnerable to a centuries-old curse that will unite her and Tariq in a war against the enemies of humans and Carpathians alike... (Blurb via Goodreads)

{Details} eARC, 432 pages. Published August 2nd 2016 by Berkley. Source: eARC provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

{Rating} 3/5 - I liked it!

{Review}

I'm a big fan of Christine Feehan - I'm working my way through all her series - and while I liked her latest installment in the Dark series, I didn't love it.

What I liked:

Charlotte. She's strong, loyal, determined, courageous. She's got a huge heart, she welcomes all these children into her heart, and will do anything for them.

Tariq. I love the way he loves the children he's taken into his care, how he looks out for the people under his protection, his determination to defeat the vampires.

The friendship between Charlotte and Genevieve, the children, seeing the other Carpathian hunters, and the action of the Carpathians versus the vampires.

What I didn't like:

Right from the beginning I felt like I had missed something, that there were a lot of characters and situations that I should have already known about.

The instalove to instasex. While instalove is a big component of the Carpathian mythology usually there is more development in their relationship before they end up in bed together.

All in all, I enjoyed Dark Carousel and was really intrigued with the secondary characters and hope to see their own stories play out in future installments.

{eARC Minute Review} The Fractured Heart (Second Circle Tattoos #2) by Scarlett Cole

The Fractured Heart (Second Circle Tattoos #2) by Scarlett Cole

All things, when placed under pressure, eventually break or leave a mark.

Tattoo artist Brody "Cujo" Matthews knows how to keep things simple. In life and in love. Abandoned as a child by a mother who refused to stick around to raise three boys she didn't want, he's intent on staying clear of complicated women. The only things complicated in Cujo’s life are the killer tattoos he designs and inks. That all changes when he’s asked to help organize his best friend Trent's engagement party, which means working with Trent's fiancée's best friend, Drea, the definition of high maintenance and sizzling curves. And the one woman he doesn’t want to walk away from.

Andrea "Drea" Caron is broke and tired. After years of caring for her ailing mom, she's at the end of her rope trying to manage the piling medical bills, two jobs, and a life placed on hold. She certainly doesn’t need the added frustration of a sexy playboy tattoo artist messing up her best friend’s engagement party or her carefully balanced life. But when Drea witnesses the abduction of a woman from the café she works at, she can’t help but turn to Cujo who’s determined to prove to Drea that he’s someone she can count on forever…but as they attempt to bring the truth to light, someone is working to bring that forever to a sudden, deadly halt. (Blurb via Goodreads)

{Details} eARC. Published January 5th 2016 by St. Martin's Press. Source: eARC provided via Netgaley in exchange for an honest review

 

{Rating} 3/5 - I liked it

 

{Review}

We got to know both Cujo and Drea in the first novel, Strongest Steel. They were both great friends, supportive and generous, and here, in their own story, they're even more awesome. Both are the drop everything for you, give you the shirt off their back, type.

Both Cujo and Drea have been through a lot and still bear the scars. Their scars color their views of the world and directly impact their relationship. The romance develops slowly, starting with barbs and sniping, but turns into a relationship that can last.

Along with the romance there is an element of mystery and danger that added some excitement. If you like your romance with a little suspense and drama check out the books of Second Circle.

{eARC Romance Review} The Billionaire's Baby Swap (The Montanari Marriages #1) by Rebecca Winters

The Billionaire's Baby Swap (The Montanari Marriages #1) by Rebecca Winters

Two babies…one family?
Single mom Valentina Montanari was abandoned while pregnant, yet she's besotted with her tiny son, Ric. But why does he look nothing like her?
Gorgeous billionaire Giovanni Laurito bonded with his new baby, Vito, after a difficult divorce, so discovering Vito and Ric were swapped at birth is a huge shock!
When Valentina and Giovanni meet to reclaim their children, sparks fly. They've already fallen for each other's babies… Could this unexpected beginning create the family of their dreams? (Blurb via Goodreads)

{Details} eARC, Kindle Edition, 256 pages.Published April 1st 2016 by Harlequin Romance . Source: eARC provided in exchange for an honest review via Netgalley

{Rating} 3/5 - I liked it!

{Review}

Sweet, cute story. I liked Valentina and Giovanni, they're both trying to do the very best for their kids while working through their own issues, and pasts, his failed marriage and life/work balance and her career issues and affair she regrets. The boys really stole the show, they're cute and loving and charming. Valentina and Giovanni were both more forgiving than I would have been but they're right, when your heart is full of love there isn't room for anything else. If you're looking for a sweet, heartwarming story, give The Billionaire's Baby Swap a try.

{eARC Minute Review} Sabin, A Seven Novel by A.M. Hargrove

 

This is an Adult soft sci-fi stand alone novel that contains sexual scenes and language, making it unsuitable for younger readers. This novel contains hot aliens. You have been warned.

The Seven have a code: find and protect Judgment Day (a weapon of mass destruction that poses as a harmless necklace) and the ones who possess it at all costs; and never, under any circumstan This is an Adult soft sci-fi stand alone novel that contains sexual scenes and language, making it unsuitable for younger readers. This novel contains hot aliens. You have been warned.

The Seven have a code: find and protect Judgment Day (a weapon of mass destruction that poses as a harmless necklace) and the ones who possess it at all costs; and never, under any circumstances, divulge information about ourselves.

I have always abided by this code. Until Serena Callahan, a sassy, no nonsense female, found the damn choker, and now I’m the one being choked by my own emotions. Ever since the day she entered my life that code has meant nothing to me. And for the life of me I can’t figure out why I’m allowing a damn woman to lead me around by her slender finger. The rules have changed and she’s calling all the shots only she doesn’t know it. But if we can’t find the necklace soon, none of it will matter anyway.

My name is Sabin and I am the commander of The Seven. (Blurb via Goodreads)

{Details} ebook. Published October 29th 2015. Source: eARC provided in exchange for an honest review

{Rating} 3/5 -  I liked it!

{Review}

Sabin is definitely high on the drama - battles, death, passion - that kept my attention until the very last page. Sabin and Serena can't stay away from each other, can't keep their hands off of each other either. Serena has been thrown into a new world, a new reality but she never loses her determination - or her stubborn side. Serena sends Sabin spinning, despite his upbringing, station in life and responsibility he loses all sense. If you're a fan of hot sci-fi give Sabin a try.

{eARC MInute Review} Breaking a Legend (Kavanagh Legends #1) by Sarah Robinson

Breaking a Legend (Kavanagh Legends #1) by Sarah Robinson

Perfect for fans of Katy Evans and Monica Murphy, Sarah Robinson’s blistering-hot series debut introduces the Kavanagh brothers—mixed martial arts fighters who work hard, play hard, and love with all their hearts.

As one of the big names at his family’s gym, Legends, MMA star Rory Kavanagh is used to being in the spotlight—until a gruesome leg injury knocks him out of the cage. Rory is left feeling sidelined in more ways than one, battling the inner demons that come with losing the one shot at his dreams. Then Clare walks into his life and gives him a new dream: winning her heart. There aren’t many new faces in Woodlawn these days, but this tough, beautiful stranger makes Rory want to get his life back into fighting shape.

Clare Ivers doesn’t think she’ll be able to tell anyone what really brought her to the close-knit Bronx neighborhood where she just started bartending. But her life’s on pause and her past is catching up fast, try as she might to move on—with new friends, steady work, and a chiseled alpha male trying to get her attention. Even though Rory’s more than a little intense, she can’t deny that her heart beats faster when he looks at her with those soulful silver eyes. Clare thought she was done with love, but Rory might just be man enough to show her she thought wrong. (Blurb via Goodreads)

{Details} eARC, 273 pages. Published September 29th 2015 by Loveswept. Source: eARC provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

{Rating} 3/5 - I liked it!

{Review}

Breaking a Legend kept my attention, Sarah Robinson did a good job with pacing and doling out just enough information to keep me turning the pages, but ultimately it wasn't very memorable.

I liked Clare and Rory together, they both see something in each other that they can relate to, a person to love, to fight for. Told in my favorite dual POV we get to see in both Clare and Rory's heads, Clare's fear and determination, and Rory's fierce protectiveness and the pain of broken dreams and descent into addiction.

I liked the extended Kavanaugh family and what I saw of them makes me eager to read more in the Kavanaugh Legends series. If you're a fan of MMA stories give Breaking a Legend a try

{eARC Minute Review} Persuasion (Sons of Odin MC #1) by Violetta Rand

Persuasion (Sons of Odin MC #1) by Violetta Rand

Lang Anderson may be the new leader of the Sons of Odin motorcycle club, but his personal life is in shreds. He’s struggling to take care of his three young sisters in the wake of tragedy, while rumors of drug dealing within his ranks jeopardize everything he’s built. The last thing he needs is another distraction—like a bar brawl over a woman—but Lang is a sucker for a damsel in distress. And this one gets him roaring like a finely tuned engine.

High school guidance counselor Lily Gallo is no fender bunny. So why can’t she get Lang off her mind? Lily’s head says the rugged, rough-and-tumble biker who came to her aid is bad news. Her body begs to differ. But when Lang’s troubled kid sister walks into her office, Lily’s determined to help, even if it puts her in the crossfire of a gang war. On a crash course with danger and desire, Lily partners up with Lang to fight for his family—and for love. (Blurb via Goodreads)

{Details} eARC, 221 pages. Published December 8th 2015 by Loveswept

{Rating} 3/5 - I liked it!

{Review}

I liked the chemistry - and the intensity - of the relationship between Lang and Lily. They both know that the best thing for each of them is to steer well clear of each other, but they can't fight the attraction. They work well together; Lang is the typical alpha male and Lily is smart - most of the time - a caretaker, compassionate, and they're both very protective of those they love.

I felt the ending was kind of a letdown. After getting so invested in the characters and the whole Sons of Odin, that's the way it ended? Hmm. I'll have to see what happens in Sons of Odin book two.

{eARC Minute Review} The Duke and Miss Christmas (The Heirs' Club of Scoundrels Trilogy #2.5) by Amelia Grey

The Duke and Miss Christmas (The Heirs' Club of Scoundrels Trilogy #2.5) by Amelia Grey

Crispin, the Duke of Hurst, has never met a woman he couldn't handle--until he's hit over the head with a basketful of mistletoe by a young lady who mistakes his intentions. When he gets into a tussle with her--and she can hold her own--Crispin knows he has finally met his match.

Miss Gwen Prim is mortified that she attacked a duke, but even more concerning is the way her resolve melts when she's near him. She's never felt this way about a London gentleman in her life. And with the magic of Christmas in the air, she may end up with a proposal she didn't expect...in this delightful Regency gem, The Duke and Miss Christmas by New York Times bestselling author Amelia Grey (Blurb via Goodreads)

{Details}Published October 13th 2015 by St. Martin's Paperbacks. Source: ebook provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

{Rating} 3/5 - I liked it!

{Review}

 

A quick, sweet, and sexy holiday novella. I was charmed by the gallant reformed rake Crispin and fiercely protective Gwen's first meeting. I liked watching Crispin with Gwen's little sisters, he's kind and generous with his time and can totally see why Gwen would fall for him. There's a bit of a hiccup on the way to happily ever after but ultimately love prevails. If you're looking for a little holiday romance give The Duke and Miss Christmas a try.

[eARC Paranormal Romance Minute Review} Heir To The Pack (The Cursed Pack Book 1) by Laura Welling

Heir To The Pack (The Cursed Pack Book 1) by Laura Welling

Three years ago, Annie had a three-day fling in Cancun with a handsome stranger, Dash. Two years ago, she gave birth to his son. Now, Annie's son is fading away with a mysterious illness, and she must seek help from his father, who doesn’t know he exists. But Dash has news for her: first, he’s a werewolf; second, he’s about to be crowned their king; and third, their son has been touched by an ancient curse. (Blurb via Goodreads)

{Details} eARC, Published September 25th 2015 by Laura Welling. Source: eARC provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

{Rating} 3/5 - I liked it!

{Review}

 

First the good: I liked the plot and the concept, the idea of shifters and magic, it was new and interesting. The storyline had twists and turns, keeping me guessing about who the bad guy is, and a bit of action to keep my attention. I liked Dash's friendship with Gaelan, I think Gaelan ended up being my favorite character.

 

Now for the bad: I never really felt the romance between Annie and Dash, it seemed like they had more of a relationship when they were together in Cancun than they do now. And Dash as an alpha? We see it a few times but not when it comes to Annie. He talked about her for years but never did anything about it? Where's the alpha in that?

 

If you're looking for a different type of shifter book with a bit of mystery and reunited lovers give Heir To The Pack a try.

{eARC Minute Review} Goddess (Calypso #2) by Julie Anne Lindsey

Two weeks ago, Callie Ingram was just another high school senior with her sights on a swimming scholarship. Now, she’s the resurrected leader of the Vikings, balancing her classes with learning mythological history—and sparring sessions with her gorgeous demigod boyfriend, Liam Hale.

When Zeus returns to collect the favor she owes him, Callie is tasked with uniting the warring Viking clans and leading them into battle against Gaia’s frost giants. If she fails, everything she risked her life for will be destroyed…and her best friend will die. But one teenage girl rallying all of the vengeful clans won’t be easy. And things only get more complicated when a new prophecy puts her future with Liam at risk. Now, Callie will not only have to win the battle, but she’ll have to take the fate of her heart into her own hands. (Blurb via Goodreads)

{Details} ebook, 300 pages. Expected publication: October 13th 2015 by Lyrical Press. Source: ebook provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

{Rating} 3/5 - I liked it!

{Review}

A lot happened to Callie at the end of Prophecy, changing her life in every way and Callie is struggling with those changes, physical and emotional. On top of that she's struggling with her self-confidence in the face of all that's on her shoulders. She's also trying to keep her two lives separate. Things with Liam aren't helping, he's keeping secrets. I wish she'd been stronger with what she'd accept; there's loving and forgiving someone and then there's being a doormat. I did like her evolution throughout the story, watching her strength and determination.

There are a few twists that keep things interesting, a good dose of action and memorable characters. If you're looking for an exciting, well written and interesting take on mythology check out the Calypso series.

{eARC Minute Romance Review} Finding Master Right (Masters Unleashed #1) by Sparrow Beckett

Finding Master Right (Masters Unleashed #1) by Sparrow Beckett

Kate’s fantasies have always featured sexy, dominant, crop-wielding men, but finding one in real life was easier said than done. She’s used to getting what she wants, but the creeps that keep flirting with her aren’t her kink.

Enter Banner. His intensity scares her—he’s looking for a slave, and Kate doesn’t want to be one. But when he offers to help find the perfect Dom for her, she’s glad to have a matchmaker and protector.

Banner knows he and Kate aren’t sexually compatible, so what better way to get the tasty almost-vanilla girl out of his head than finding her a good Dom? As it becomes clear that Kate has no clue what she wants when it comes to kink, he devises a series of experiments to help her figure things out—a perfect plan, if he could stop himself from training and bedding her. Obsessing about owning a girl who wants to be free isn’t healthy. But when Banner finds the right Dom to collar Kate, how will he hand over the leash? (Blurb via Goodreads)

{Details} eARC, Published July 21st 2015 by InterMix. Source: eARC provided in exchange for an honest review

{Rating} 3/5 - I liked it!

{Review}

Hot. Sweet. Intense. Kate wants to experiment. She wants to find out what she likes; her kind of kink. Kate and Banner aren't looking for the same thing but they have a connection and can't seem to stay away from each other.

Kate was a relatable character, everything is new to her and as she experiments she makes mistakes, she tests her boundaries, and learns a great deal about herself in the process. Banner is all kinds of alpha male. He's self-assured and determined, he knows what he wants and doesn't intend to settle for anything less. He also has tats that drive Kate wild. I enjoyed watching Kate and Banner together - they are hot - and their battle to find a way to be together was engaging.

{Blog Tour + Review + Giveaway} The Hybrid by Venus Morales (The Hybrid Series #1)

 

 

The Hybrid by Venus Morales
(The Hybrid Series #1)
Publication date: February 9th 2015
Genres: Urban Fantasy, Young Adult

Synopsis:

Ari is the daughter of Ares, the God of War. Half goddess and half Phoenician, she is raised by her father in secrecy until her 18th birthday, when he is forced to return to Olympus.

She chooses not follow her father, and decides to venture out into the mortal realm. There, Ari crosses paths with the archangel Julius, who bears a message from a seer. Ari must return to the Bayou to her late mother's coven to regain her family crown, she is soon fighting for more than just the crown; she is fighting for her life, and the inner darkness that's consuming her.

With 7 days to prepare for her trials and 7 days to fight for her life, Ari does the one thing she must do to survive; she forges herself into the weapon she was born to be.

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/24959428-the-hybrid

Purchase:

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Hybrid-Book-1-ebook/dp/B00TFTB1H8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1431971863&sr=8-1&keywords=The+Hybrid+by+Venus+Morales

B&N: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-hybrid-venus-morales/1121206824?ean=9781508406471

 AUTHOR BIO:

Who am I, you ask? I am a woman who wears many hats. A mother of 3 wonderful boys is my first and for most priority, and from there it trickles down. I’m a wife, a cook, a house cleaner and a mommy to two dogs and a lazy loveable cat. Then there’s my ulternate life.. The writer  she is the kid who refuses to grow up. Stuck in a mind state of a teenager, who still has imaginary friends. The two halfs of me get along great!! As long as I let the writer out and listen to my imaginary friends tell me their story, then there’s no conflict. If I keep her caged up too long… Well… You know what they say, when you keep the beast caged up to long, it gets angry.

The life of a writer is who your born to be, not a job you just take on. It’s who I am.

Author links:

http://authorvenusmorales.wix.com/authorvenusmorales

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Author-Venus-Morales/1545839389006202

https://twitter.com/venusmorales6

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/13490108.Venus_Morales

{Details} ebook, 240 pages. Published February 9th 2015 by Venus Morales. Source: ebook provided in exchange for an honest review

{Details} 3/5 - I liked it!

{Review}

An interesting, original story full of secrets - huge, life changing secrets, drama - family, relationship and paranormal, battles to the death, kisses, shocks, boy trouble and the mother of all internal battles.

I liked the relationships in The Hybrid, Ari and Ily, Ari and her father and grandmother, Ari and Julian. They're quite the mix of personalities who clash frequently but love each other fiercely. Ari is an interesting character. She's very emotional, fly by the seat of her pants, who reacts first and thinks later, but she's also very protective and loyal. Ily is a great best friend who tells you the hard truths, her family is complicated and over-protective but loving, and Julian is a sweetie whose past is just as drama filled as Ari's.

There was enough action and twists and turns to keep my attention, culminating with an OMG what just happened? twist that left me wanting to know what happens next.

 {Giveaway}

Tour-wide giveaway (INTL)

• 10x signed copies of The Hybrid by Venus Morales & custom swag key chains

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

{eARC Minute Review} To Win Her Love (Players #1) by Mackenzie Crowne

To Win Her Love (Players #1) by Mackenzie Crowne  

To win the game, they’ll have to risk losing their hearts…

When a bizarre child custody stipulation pits popular sports blogger Gracie Gable against football superstar Jake Malone, losing the battle for her twin nieces isn't the only thing Gracie has to worry about. Forced to live for three months under the same roof as the sexy tight end, will she fall prey to his flirtatious pursuit? Or worse, will the skeletons in her closet destroy her chance for the love and family she so desperately wants?

Neglected by his parents as a boy, Jake doesn’t believe in happily ever after. Yet living with Gracie and the twins might be enough to change his mind—and his womanizing ways. But when the press unearths a scandal from Gracie’s past, will he lose the one woman he was ready to open his heart to? (Blurb via Gooodreads)

{Details} eARC, Published August 4th 2015. Source: ebook provided in exchange for an honest review

{Rating} 3/5 - I liked it!

 

{Review}

A sweet story with an unexpected but hot romance, a few huge surprises, a grand gesture and a family created by love and blood. 

 

Jake and Gracie have both been shaped by their experiences with family - both good and bad and they have to deal with that past in order to play parents to two young orphans. Gracie is strong, compassionate, generous, and she thinks of everyone else first. She also has a secret, a secret she's determined to keep even when the cost is everything she's ever wanted. Jake can be incredibly stubborn as well as incredibly sweet. After an unhappy childhood the last thing he's looking for is to raise two little girls. He has a huge heart and I liked watching him fall for the girls - all three of them, and start to believe in happily ever afters.

{ARC Review} The Heartbreakers (The Heartbreaker Chronicles #1) by Ali Novak

The Heartbreakers (The Heartbreaker Chronicles #1) by Ali Novak

"When I met Oliver Perry, I had no clue he was the lead singer for The Heartbreakers. And he had no idea that I was the only girl in the world who hated his music."
Stella will do anything for her sick sister, Cara—even stand in line for an autographed Heartbreakers CD...for four hours. She's totally winning best birthday gift this year. At least she met a cute boy with soft brown hair and gorgeous blue eyes while getting her caffeine fix. Too bad she'll never see him again.
Except, Stella's life has suddenly turned into a cheesy love song. Because Starbucks Boy is Oliver Perry – lead singer for the Heartbreakers. And even after she calls his music crap, Oliver still gives Stella his phone number. And whispers quotes from her favorite Disney movie in her ear. OMG, what is her life?
But how can Stella even think about being with Oliver — dating and laughing and pulling pranks with the band — when her sister could be dying of cancer?
Ali Novak wrote her debut novel My Life with the Walter Boys when she was just 15 years old, and has since penned her next book, The Heartbreakers. First a hit on the online community Wattpad, her second novel has over 38 million reads and is loved by readers around the world. (Blurb via Goodreads)

{Details} eARC, 336 pages. Expected publication: August 4th 2015 by Sourcebooks Fire. Source: ebook provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

{Rating} 3/5 - I liked it!

{Review}

A cute upper YA/New Adult novel about facing fears, taking chances, first love, letting go and holding on. I absolutely loved the band, their enthusiasm, the fun they have pranking each other, I wish we could have seen even more of them.

Stella and Oliver. Hmm. I never really connected with Stella. I understood her fears - especially in light of her close relationship with her siblings - but she required lots of prompting and pushing to do things, to leave, to start her life. And she broke her promise - that's not cool. I did love the relationship between the triplets, they're close but everything is changing - they're facing the separation of college - something a lot of readers could relate to - and the possibility of losing Cara to cancer. For the most part I liked Oliver; he has a sweet side, a fun side, a charming side, but he also has his own issues.  I did expect a bit more from his issues but in his world, with what he wants out of life, they were huge to him.

The conclusion to this first installment in the Heartbreaker Chronicles was satisfying, the grand gesture and where all the characters end up - for now - and I look forward to see what happens next.