{eARC Minute Review} Wolf Hunger (SWAT: Special Wolf Alpha Team #7) by Paige Tyler

Wolf Hunger (SWAT: Special Wolf Alpha Team #7) by Paige Tyler

She’s all the wolf he’ll ever need

When SWAT Officer Max Lowry meets Lana Mason, he falls fast and hard. He’s positive she’s The One. And Max’s favorite part? Lana’s a wolf shifter too, so they can skip the awkward reveal and head straight to the happily ever after. There’s just one problem: Lana doesn’t know that she’s a werewolf.

To make matters worse, hunters with intent to kill have tracked Lana to Dallas. Max has to figure out how to keep Lana safe, show her who and what she really is—and just how much she means to him. (Blurb via Goodreads)

{Details} eARC provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. 313 pages. Published December 5th 2017 by Sourcebooks Casablanca  

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

{Review}

There's a lot going on this Wolf Hunger. A family in distress that brings up Max's painful history, a secret legacy, hunters moving ever closer, injury, loss, and of course the romance. The beginning of Max's story is hard as we learn about the tragic circumstances that led to Max's change but I held on because Max deserved a happy ending and I wanted to see it.

I enjoyed Max and Lana's love story from the first meeting, through interfering parents, loss and the revelation of secrets. It did feel like the love story was a bit overshadowed by the huge things that happened but it was satisfying none the less.

Wolf Hunger moved us one step closer to the showdown between the werewolves and the hunters and keeps me interested in finding out what happens next.

{eARC Romance Review} Wolf Hunt (SWAT: Special Wolf Alpha Team #6) by Paige Tyler

Wolf Hunt (SWAT: Special Wolf Alpha Team #6) by Paige Tyler 

A STORM IS BREWING...
Remy Boudreaux is back in his hometown, New Orleans. He's there with three of his fellow Dallas SWAT officers for a week of training with the NOLA PD. On the eve of a tropical storm, Remy and his buddies prowl the French Quarter. One tantalizing scent captures Remy's senses, forcing him to follow until he is face to face with Triana Bellamy—his beautiful high school crush.

After reconnecting, Remy and Triana are close—very. Remy struggles to keep things casual. Ever since his partner—and first love—was killed on the job, he's kept women at a distance.

But when a mysterious wolf pendant ropes them both into danger, Remy's protective instincts kick in. He may have to reveal his true self...and hope Triana accepts him. (Blurb via Goodreads)

{Details} eARC provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review, 352 pages. Published June 6th 2017 by Sourcebooks Casablanca

{Rating} 4/5 - I really liked it

{Review}

Six books into Paige Tyler's SWAT series and I'm still addicted. In Wolf Hunt we travel with a few of the SWAT wolf to New Orleans where Remy reunites with a woman from his past.

I enjoyed the action/drama of Remy's New Orleans mission as well as the romantic drama with Triana and Remy. Things happen fast, Remy is caught by Triana's scent and Triana finds herself charmed but their past together makes it not seem quite so abrupt. Neither are a geographically desirable partner but their connection is so strong that you know these two will find a way.

Triana's mother was a fun character. She was really interesting and has her own connection to the werewolf community that helps Triana find her way. I loved the background of New Orleans, especially when all the drama of the pendant and romance comes to a head during the middle of a storm.

{eARC Review} Leopard's Blood (Leopard People #10) by Christine Feehan

Leopard's Blood (Leopard People #10) by Christine Feehan

#1 New York Times bestselling author Christine Feehan cuts straight to the heart of a man who stalks the shadows in an intoxicating Leopard novel.

Though born into a leopard’s lair in the bayou, Joshua Tregre’s fighting skills were honed in the rainforests of Borneo. Sleek and deadly, he’s the perfect man to take over a crime syndicate back home in Louisiana’s lush swamplands. His razor sharp instincts give him an edge in the violent underworld he knows so well, but even the watchful leopard inside him isn’t prepared for the danger that comes from the girl next door…

She is a woman who can create beauty out of thin air—and out of the ruins of her own life. The games that dangerous men play have taken their toll on her, but she is bent, not broken. And it’s her fierce spirit that’s like a lure to Joshua, a temptation he can’t resist—even if it means bringing his true nature into the light… (Blurb via Goodreads)

{Details}eARC, 304 pages. Published October 24th 2017 by Piatkus. eARC provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

{Rating} 4/5 - I liked it

{Review}

I'm a huge Christine Feehan fan, I'm working my way through all of her series. I was thrilled to see a new addition to her Leopard People series and dived in. Right away things are hot and intense between Joshua (who we've seen through the previous books in the series) and Sonia. Their leopards are determined to be together but Sonia is NOT. Sonia has a sad backstory, has been hurt by men, and wants nothing to do with him so Joshua has a had road ahead.

Sonia is very independent. She's got a huge heart, is there to lend a helping hand to anyone who needs it. I liked that she wasn't a shrinking violet, she was willing to jump in and defend the people she loved without a second thought. Joshua is a typical Christine Feehan hero. He's commanding and strong willed and determined to get his way. He's had a hard childhood too and it made him strong and protective and he knows what he's found in Sonia.

Super steamy, strong willed characters and an exciting storyline, Leopard's Blood is another winner from Christine Feehan.

{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.

Wolf Unleashed (SWAT: Special Wolf Alpha Team #5) by Paige Tyler

Wolf shifter Alex Trevino has fallen hard for veterinarian Lacey Barton. Getting her to agree to a date is a lot of work—and winning her heart proves even harder.

Lacey can’t deny her crazy attraction to Alex, but she has no intention of letting herself fall for him. In her less than stellar experience, men don’t stick around.

When Lacey’s sister is kidnapped, it’s up to Alex to crack the case—and prove to Lacey that he isn’t going anywhere. (Blurb via Goodreads)

{Details} eARC provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. 341 pages. Published December 6th 2016 by Sourcebook Casablanca 

 

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

 

{Review}

 

I love Paige Tyler's SWAT series. If you haven't started the SWAT series, I highly recommend it. Even five books in Paige still continues to produce exciting storylines, lovable heroes, strong heroines and a guaranteed happily ever after. 

Alex has already featured in the previous SWAT series books so I already knew and loved him, yet loved him more as we got to see inside his head, and especially seeing his interactions with the SWAT team's adopted dog, Tuffie.

Lacey is a veterinarian so there are lots of animals featuring in this installment, always a positive in my opinion. Lacey is a bit of a closed off character, making Alex work hard to get her attention much less her trust. She didn't have a stable childhood, was given a lot of responsibility young, and even now while starting her career she is dealing with a pile of debt and raising her younger sister. 

I enjoyed their relationship - Alex put so much effort and thought into his dates - the action and mystery and as always, was left eagerly awaiting the next installment in the series.

{eARC Review} Judgment Road (Torpedo Ink #1) by Christine Feehan

Judgment Road (Torpedo Ink #1) by Christine Feehan

An outlaw motorcycle club sets up shop next door to Sea Haven in the dangerously sexy new series from #1 New York Times bestselling author Christine Feehan.
As the enforcer of the Torpedo Ink motorcycle club, Reaper lives for riding and fighting. He's a stone-cold killer who turns his wrath on those who deserve it. Feelings are a weakness he can't afford--until a gorgeous bartender gets under his skin...

Near Sea Haven, the small town of Caspar has given Anya Rafferty a new lease on life. And she's desperate to hold on to her job at the biker bar, even if the scariest member of the club seems to have it out for her. But Reaper's imposing presence and smoldering looks just ratchet up the heat.

Anya's touch is everything Reaper doesn't want--and it brands him to the bone. But when her secrets catch up to her, Reaper will have to choose between Anya and his club--his heart and his soul. (Blurb via Goodreads)

{Details} eARC provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review, 304 pages. Expected publication: January 23rd 2018 by Piatkus

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

{Review}

I was very excited to see a new series, Torpedo Ink, from one of my favorite authors, Christine Feehan. The cast of the Torpedo Ink series was first introduced in Bound Together, the last book in the Sea Haven/Sisters of the Heart series, and are Viktor's (not biologically related) brothers and sisters. In Judgement Road we get to see a lot more of the Torpedo Ink crew - and a lot more of their horrible upbringing.

I was engaged from the beginning, seeing the mysterious Reaper - overprotective, quiet, dangerous - taking care of his family, trying desperately to ignore the mysterious new bartender, Anya. Growing up in the school he did, with the abuse and deprivation, without seeing anything normal Reaper has no idea what to do with his feelings for Anya. He doesn't even know he likes her. He makes a lot of mistakes but Anya couldn't find a fiercer champion, or one more determined to love her and make her happy.

Anya hasn't had an easy upbringing either, she and her mother bounced from shelter to shelter, but she was determined to make a life for herself, to make a home and build a family. She was working on her great life plan but her life has taken a dramatic left turn, sending her fleeing, and she has found safety at Torpedo Ink's bar. Reaper isn't the guy she imagined herself falling for but she can't stop thinking about him, and when they get close, she can't resist him.

There are quite a few tense moments in the story, both with his relationship with Anya (he's thisclose to blowing it with her multiple times), and with Torpedo Ink's fight against another club that is targeting women.

I like that this book shows you that people are more than their upbringing, that you can come from the worst of circumstances and make your life what you want it to be. There are a lot of members of Torpedo Ink so I'm looking forward to many, many years of books featuring these strong, scarred, men and women. 

--Trigger warning--

{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 Review} Shadow Reaper (Shadow #2) by Christine Feehan

Shadow Reaper (Shadow #2) by Christine Feehan

#1 New York Times bestselling author Christine Feehan continues her sexy new series, as the Ferraros—a Chicago crime family—use their power as shadow riders to protect their empire and the ones they love…

Billionaire playboy Ricco Ferraro knows no other life. Being a shadow rider is in his blood - but so is a haunting desperation stemming from the secrets of his dark past. His recklessness puts not only his life at risk, but also the future of his entire family. To save them all, he must find a woman who can meet his every desire with a heat all her own...

Just when Ricco has given up hope, he meets her - a mysterious woman whose shadow connects with his. She's someone looking for a safe haven from the danger that has stalked her over the last several months. In Ricco's embrace, she finds one. But the darkness in which they so often find sanctuary can also consume them... (Blurb via Goodreads)

{Details} eARC, 480 pages. Expected publication: May 30th 2017 by Jove. eARC provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review


{Rating} 4/5 - I really liked it

{Review} 

It's hard to say much about the plot, the book blurb is really mysterious - it doesn't even say the heroine's name - but I'll do what I can to show how I enjoyed the book without giving too much away.

I really enjoyed Shadow Reaper, I loved seeing more of the Ferraro family, I liked Ricco even more after learning about his past, I thought the heroine was a strong character, damaged but kind, compassionate, and courageous, and there was quite a bit of action and excitement.

The relationship between the heroine and Ricco was my favorite part of the story. They have both endured terrible trials in their past, have been scarred by what they've survived and those scars still influence who they are today. I enjoyed how Christine Feehan used Shibari to develop their relationship; it was about sex but more than that it was about trust.

This is the second installment in the Shadow series and I do think you would enjoy it better if you read book one first to understand the world of shadow riders and get to meet the characters but it isn't strictly necessary. Shadow Reaper has confirmed that I'm a definite fan of this series and can't wait to learn whose story comes next.

(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.

[eARC Review} On the Market (The Ballard Brothers of Darling Bay Book 1) by Rachael Herron

On the Market (The Ballard Brothers of Darling Bay Book 1) by Rachael Herron 

The Bachelor meets The Property Brothers:
Love, property, and construction. What could possibly go wrong?

From international bestseller Rachael Herron, comes another book too delightful to put down:

Liam Ballard is good at buying houses, fixing them up with his brothers, and flipping them for a profit. When Felicia from the network shows up to offer them a reality show (the brothers renovate a house while one of them dates the buyer), the pay is too good to turn down. With it, they'll finally be able to open the after-school program for at-risk youth to honor the man who raised them. But when the very LA-like Felicia decides she'll be the buyer of the property (and his date), Liam wonders for the first time what set of keys he'll want to pass over to her, and will one of them unlock his heart?

A heart-warming, laugh-out-loud installment in the small town you love to visit. (Blurb via Goodreads)

{Details} eARC, 225 pages. Published June 28th 2016 by HGA Publishing. Source: eARC provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

 

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

 

{Review}

Think The Property Brothers if one of the guys was supposed to fall for the homeowner during the purchase and renovation. I have no idea why I waited so long to pick up this book! I adored it. The characters, the setting - the house! - there was so much to love.

The characters are all endearing and wonderfully flawed. There aren't any perfect characters to be found here and the author isn't afraid to show their mistakes. It was hard to get in Felicia's head. I liked her but I couldn't understand her and the decisions she made. The author did a good job of trying to show her thought processes and how her upbringing would have guided her to those decisions but I still wanted to shake her. Liam has an enormous heart. He's uber-protective of those he loves, he's got issues - major childhood pain - but he has an amazing capacity for love. Of all the characters my favorite, hands-down, was the house. It was definitely the star of the book.

I did feel like the book was rushed near the end and I didn't feel like I saw enough of the other Ballard Brothers who are supposed to be the leading men in the next books but if you're looking for a quick, sweet and steamy romance novel set in a fabulous location check out On the Market.

{eARC Review} Leopard's Fury (Leopard People #9) by Christine Feehan

Leopard's Fury (Leopard People #9)by Christine Feehan

With her own bakery in San Antonio, Evangeline Tregre made a new life far from the brutal lair of shifters she was born into. Though she is all too aware of her leopard-shifter blood, she never felt the sensation of a wild animal stirring inside her. Not until Alonzo Massi walked into her bakery. The powerful shifter is as irresistible as he is terrifying, but his icy demeanor tells her to keep her distance.

Alonzo knows better than to let himself get involved with someone like Evangeline. She doesn’t deserve the type of danger that follows him, or the threat of his Amur leopard. But even with his lean muscle and iron will, Alonzo isn’t strong enough to stay away from the one woman who can make him feel at peace. And when their secret lives draw a mortal threat, Alonzo unleashes the feral passion he keeps pent up inside himself. (Blurb via Goodreads)

{Rating} 4/5 - I really liked it

{Details} 352 pages. Published November 8th 2016 by Jove. eARC provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

{Review} 

The latest addition to the Leopard People series is classic Christine Feehan: alpha males, strong women, violence, passion, family, drama and a happily ever after.

Evangeline's childhood was terrible. She was neglected, tortured, terrified, but she survived. She's put herself back together, she's created a life she loves, doing something she loves. And then a man walks through her door and turns her life upside down. She's may be young and innocent but she's also fierce, determined, and protective.

Alonzo can't stay away from Evangeline. His leopard is difficult - scary difficult - but around sweet, innocent Evangeline he calms. I felt for Alonzo. His childhood was horrific, he's seen and done things that would break the strongest of people, but he survived. He's still got his demons, lives a dangerous life, and doesn't think he deserves a woman much less one like Evangeline and it's a battle to get him to give in.

I liked Alonzo and Evangeline. He goes all alpha male but she's not afraid to stand up to him, he cares and protects her like no one in her life ever had before. I also liked that Evangeline has always known about her leopard, that it was been her companion, her protector, even if they haven't always been in agreement. I loved Alonzo's relationship with his brother and cousins and how they brought Evangeline into the fold, teasing and bantering with her.

As always, when I reach the end of one of Christine Feehan's novels I'm eager for another.

{eARC Review} Shadow Falling (The Scorpius Syndrome #2) by Rebecca Zanetti

Shadow Falling (The Scorpius Syndrome #2) by Rebecca Zanetti 

Before the Scorpius Syndrome tore through North America and nearly wiped out the population, Vivienne Wellington was the FBI’s best profiler. The bacteria got her anyway. But she survived. She recovered. And when she woke up from a drug-nightmare of captivity, her skills as a hunter of men had gone from merely brilliant to full-on uncanny. Her mysterious rescuer wants her to put them to the test. But no matter how tempting he is, with his angel’s eyes and devil’s tongue, Vinnie knows she shouldn’t trust him.

If the FBI were still around they would rate Raze Shadow as one of the bad guys. His military training can’t wipe out his association with the Mercenaries, the most feared gang in a thousand miles. His loyalties are compromised. He won’t even tell Vinnie his real name. But there’s no FBI in the new America of fear and firepower, only instinct and risk.

And the way his arms wrap around Vinnie tells its own story. Whatever else Raze is concealing, he can’t hide his desire . . . (Blurb via Goodreads)

 

{Details} eARC. 400 pages. Published August 30th 2016 by Zebra. Source: eARC provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

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

 

{Review}

Rebecca Zanetti does not disappoint. Shadow Falling, the second book in The Scorpius Syndrome series, is just as exciting, as full of life and death, of shocks and aww, with a few humorous moments to lighten the dark and hard world.

 

I really liked Raze. He's smart and strong and uber-protective. He's also stuck between a rock and a hard place. He came to the Vanguard for a reason - a really good one - but now that he's there, working, helping, protecting and with Vinnie, things aren't so simple and he's got a fight on his hands to not lose everything. 

Poor Vinnie. She's been through the ringer. She's safe now - mostly - but she struggles to find her place, to belong, to feel worthwhile. I adored her spirit and drive to survive. Raze and Vinnie are so perfect together, the chemistry is great, their banter and ways of challenging each other are fun. 

I also enjoyed the sub-plot with the Reverend (which was super well crafted - and creepy) and the teasers about what we'll see in book three, Justice Ascending.

{eARC Review} The Darkest Link (Second Circle Tattoos #4) by Scarlett Cole

The Darkest Link (Second Circle Tattoos #4) by Scarlett Cole

When her car breaks down off the side of a lonely highway far from her sunny Miami home, tattoo artist Lia never expected her very own white knight to ride up on the back of a barely street-legal motorcycle...and she never expected to fall for her dark savior. After a string of failed relationships and a bruised heart, Lia is not looking for forever, and the hot mechanic, with his sexy scruff and shaggy hair, is simply impossible to resist and the perfect candidate for mind-blowingly-perfect, no-strings-attached one night stand.

Reid left his life in Chicago far behind him and hasn't been back, but he's never been able to escape the guilt he feels about his own painful role in inviting a monster into his baby sister's life. A monster who almost destroyed her. Being with Lia is an unexpected gift, one he doesn't feel he deserves, and their one night together has him wanting more than he should. Especially since she doesn't know the truth about his past. However, when he finds Lia’s bracelet in his bed, he has the perfect excuse to drive down and surprise her at her tattoo studio, Second Circle Tattoos, in Miami. He's in for an even bigger shock - and a fist to the face - when his past and present collide in the humid Miami weather when he runs into the last person he’d ever expect to see in a tattoo studio: Harper, the sister he betrayed, and the last link to his former life. (Blurb via Goodreads)

 

{Details} eARC. Published August 30th 2016 . Source: eARC provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

 

{Rating} 4/5 - I really liked it

 

{Review}

 

I loved Harper from the first book in the Second Circle Tattoos novels. When learning about what she survived and the role her brother, Reid, played in the ordeal I saw him as a villain. When I read the description for The Darkest Link I thought 'how in the world am I going to see this guy as a hero much less like him".

I was pleasantly surprised. Reid isn't perfect but he's also not a monster. There are a lot of things that he hid from Harper and a lot of guilt he's been lugging around after him. It's an emotional ride as Reid reunites with Harper and faces his own demons but ultimately satisfying.

In comparison to Reid's rather tortured existence Lia seems a little boring though she's got her own family issues. I felt for her as she tried to manage a rocky relationship with her family while being true to herself and the life she wants to lead.

A spicy romance, family drama and a dash of danger, it's Second Circle Tattoos.

{eARC Review} The Bachelor Auction (The Bachelors of Arizona #1) by Rachel Van Dyken

The Bachelor Auction (The Bachelors of Arizona #1) by Rachel Van Dyken 

Cinderella never had to deal with this crap.

Jane isn't entirely sure that Cinderella got such a raw deal. Sure, she had a rough start, but didn't she eventually land a prince and a happily-ever-after? Meanwhile, Jane is busy waiting on her demanding, entitled sisters, running her cleaning business, and . . . yep, not a prince in sight. Until a party and a broken shoe incident leave Jane wondering if princes---or at least, a certain deliciously hunky billionaire---maybe do exist.

Except Brock Wellington isn't anyone's dream guy. Hell, a prince would never agree to be auctioned off in marriage to the highest bidder. Or act like an arrogant jerk---even if it was just a façade. Now, as Brock is waiting for the auction chopping block, he figures it's karmic retribution that he's tempted by a sexy, sassy woman he can't have. But while they can't have a fairy-tale ending, maybe they can indulge in a little bit of fantasy . . (Blurb via Goodreadss)

{Details} 352 pages.Published October 4th 2016 by Forever. Source: eARC provided via Goodreads for an honest revieww

{Rating} 4/5 I really liked it

{Review}

A contemporary take on the Cinderella fairy tale.  Bachelor Auction is classic Rachel Van Dyken with her strong family bonds (good and bad), trademark banter, meddlesome secondary characters, great chemistry, and a happily ever after. I was sucked in by the story from the fairy tale beginning - poor Jane with a shoe mishap, to Jane and her prince at the ball.


I liked both Jane and Brock. They're wonderful and infuriating, they love their families fiercely, are devoted to them, sacrifice for them, and feel trapped by them. As much as they are drawn to each other (and forced together over and over again) their actions are guided by their pasts and they have to work through the guilt and obligations that shaped them.

If you're a fan of fairy tale retellings, a spicy romance, crazy families, and banter, give The Bachelor Auction a try.

{eARC Review} Primal Instinct (Bodyguard #2) by Tara Wyatt

Primal Instinct (Bodyguard #2) by Tara Wyatt 

ROCK YOU ALL NIGHT LONG

The first time he lays eyes on Taylor Ross in a bar, Colt Priestley does something few men would dare to do. He approaches the world-famous singer, shamelessly flirts with her, and gives her a night in his bed that neither of them will soon forget.

When Taylor's record label hires a bodyguard to keep tabs on the out-of-control rocker, she's less than thrilled to find it's her off-the-charts one-night stand who shows up for the job. She's terrified of letting herself fall for the damaged ex-Army Ranger, and she's determined to push him away. Yet every moment they're together simmers with tension. As the danger from an obsessed stalker mounts, Taylor and Colt are tempted to cross that line again-baring their hearts and souls as well as their bodies-and there's no telling how hot this song will get.

"If you love tough guys with a side of sweet, strong heroines with a hint of wild, and suspense with a spark of humor, this is definitely the book for you! Tara Wyatt has created a swoonworthy bodyguard series with primal passion, unexpected twists, and surprising laughs!"--New York Times bestselling author Rebecca Zanetti (Blurb via Goodreads)

{Details} eARC, 352 pages. Published May 31st 2016 by Forever

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

{Review}
 

Exciting, dramatic, a slow simmer romance that erupts into a full boil, a crazy stalker, a whole different type of crazy, and a happy happily every after.

I liked the heroine of our story. Taylor is a survivor, she's had to fight for everything in her life, she's sassy, and though it doesn't always turn out well, she's the type of person who throws herself whole-heartedly into things. 

When we meet her Taylor is in desperate need of some good things coming her way. She chose the wrong partner, made a bad decision in the aftermath of a breakup, got some terrible publicity, is in a writing slump and three men come into (or return to) her life, two that are definitely bad news and another who can hurt her in a whole different way.

Our hero hasn't had the easiest time of things either. Colt made a mistake that got him canned, he's working freelance and missing the camaraderie of co-workers,and then he meets a girl in a bar, has an amazing night with her and then finds out she's his new bodyguard assignment.

We see a little inside her stalker's head and he is totally and completely loco. And creepy. I want to shudder just thinking about him. Author Tara Wyatt totally blew it out of the park with an ick-worthy stalker.

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} Saved By The SEAL (Battle Scars #2) by Diana Gardin

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Saved By The SEAL (Battle Scars #2) by Diana Gardin

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

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

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

{Details} eARC, 352 pages. Published March 8th 2016 by Forever Yours. Source: eARC provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

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

{Review}

Grisham and Greta have a history but when they meet again when Grisham comes to Greta's rescue it's an opportunity for a new beginning. I enjoyed the romance, Greta is great for Grisham, as well as the elements of suspense in the storyline.

I enjoyed Diana Gardin's writing, the pacing was great, the characters perfectly imperfectly and told from dual POVs we get to see in both Grisham and Greta's heads. Although this is book two in the series Battle Scars it can be read as a standalone, I did, but it did make me want to read book one, Last True Hero.

{eARC Review} Shadow Rider (Shadow #1) by Christine Feehan

Shadow Rider (Shadow #1) by Christine Feehan

The #1 New York Times bestselling “queen of paranormal romance”* is back with a sexy new series starring a Chicago crime family that hides a dark, mystical secret...

Whether it’s fast cars or fast women, Stefano Ferraro gets what he wants. When he’s not fodder for the paparazzi, he commands Ferraro family businesses—both legitimate and illegitimate.

While their criminal activity is simply a rumor yet to be proven, no one knows the real truth. The Ferraros are a family of shadow riders capable of manipulating light and dark, an ability Stefano thought ran in his family alone—until now…

With little left to her name, Francesca Cappello has come to Chicago in hopes of a new life. She wasn’t expecting to attract the attention of a man with primal hunger in his eyes, driven to claim her as his to protect and to please. And if he discovers her secret, it could ruin her... (Blurb via Goodreads)

{Details} eARC, 480 pages. Expected publication: June 28th 2016 by Jove. Source: eARC provided via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

{Rating} 5/5 - I loved it!

{Review}

Over the last year I've been devouring Christine Feehan's novels. A prolific author, she creates strong alpha males - sometimes too alpha - equally strong women, unbreakable bonds of family both of blood and the family you choose, dramatic storylines and danger and suspense. The first installment in Shadow, her newest series, Shadow Rider, is everything I've come to expect from Feehan.

I loved the way Stefano looked out for his family and friends, for everyone he considers under his protection. He's a dictator but there is a reason for it. He grew up in harsh circumstances, has endured loss, has the weight of many lives on his shoulders and his past has molded him into the man that can bear the weight.

Francesca has been through hell. She's lost everything, been betrayed, she's hungry, she's just dollars away from being back on the street, but she's also the kind of person who would give the coat off of her back to a homeless woman because at least she has a roof over her head. She's generous, kind, stubborn and willing to stand up for herself even when facing off with the head of the Ferraro family.

I liked Stefano and Francesca together, the way they balanced each other, filled in empty spots, and their very awe at finding each other when neither expected something so wonderful. Their journey isn't an easy one, Stefano is overbearing and dictatorial, Francesca is afraid of losing another person she loves and feels like there is too big a gap between their financial circumstances.

This installment has a lot of exposition and setting the stage for the rest of the series - explaining the how and whys of the Ferraro family and their abilities as well as introducing tons of new characters but there's room for action and suspense. I'm already a fan of the Shadow series, I can't wait to see which Ferraro sibling is featured next.

{eARC Review} To Love a Wolf (SWAT: Special Wolf Alpha Team #4) by Paige Tyler

To Love a Wolf (SWAT: Special Wolf Alpha Team #4) by Paige Tyler

HE'S FOUND THE ONE...
SWAT officer Landry Cooper is certain Everly Danu is The One. The problem is, she has no idea what Cooper really is. And as much as he wants to trust her, he's not sure he can share his deepest secret...

When Everly's family discovers Cooper's a werewolf, her brothers will do anything to keep them apart-they'll kill him if they have to. Everly is falling hard for the ridiculously handsome SWAT officer, and she's not about to let her brothers tell her who she can love... Until Cooper's secret is exposed and she discovers the man she thought she knew is a monster in disguise.

BUT CAN HE KEEP HER? (Blurb via Goodreads)

{Details} eARC, 352 pages. Publication: June 7th 2016 by Sourcebooks Casablanca. Source: eARC provided in exchange for an honest review

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

{Review}

I'm a huge fan of the SWAT series and have been eagerly awaiting Cooper's story from the beginning. I was not disappointed. I've loved Cooper from the first book, he's calm and laid back, fierce and strong, and he's got his friends' backs without reserve or question. Seeing him with his own One, although he can't see as clearly when it comes to himself, showed me a whole new side. On top of his new romance he also he has an old friend in town in need of help, a bomber on the loose and after being involved in an incident during a bank robbery he's ordered to see a therapist.

Everly was a great heroine, smart and kind, fierce in her own way. She does lose it - which I hated because we know Cooper definitely isn't a monster - but Paige Tyler presents it in a way that I empathized with Everly. She's met this man that she falls for fast and deep, against all logic, her family hates him and then when the truth comes out it brings back the horrors of her past. 

I was hooked from the first page and couldn't wait to see him get his happily ever after.