Wednesday 29 April 2015

The Elite by Kiera Cass

REVIEWED By Micky Barnard

The Elite (The Selection, #2)The Elite by Kiera Cass
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This second book in the selection series was all about push and pull. Various challenges are set for the five elite candidates left. The rebel war inches closely to the palace which is scary for all people based there. There is a lot for America to consider about whether she really wants the responsibility that the role of Queen would bring. Both America and Maxon are confused about their own feelings.

This was a great sequel that keeps you guessing. You get to understand the characters better in this book but the plot evades a definitive answer, leaving you needing Book 3.

The publisher provided a copy of this book in return for an honest review.

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Tuesday 28 April 2015

Stolen Fate by Author S. Nelson

REVIEWED BY Kim Gray

Stolen FateStolen Fate by S. Nelson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Stolen Fate is a good story about two people from different sides of the track. Essie is what you would call broken, she has had a bad start in life. And is forced to resort to make some desperate choices in order to try and have a better life for herself. Drayden is every woman’s dream come true, or at least he looks the part, but he has his own set of issues. This story is not your normal love story, not by any means and I think that is part of why I really liked reading it. Some romance novels can be so repetitive and predictable, this was not the case with this story. Essie has a plan to deceive Drayden and he is a man that can pretty much have any woman he wants, and he is not interested in keeping any of them. So when he meets Essie he is attracted to her beauty, having no idea what Essie’s intentions are for him and so he falls for her deceptive plan.
These two people that couldn’t be any less alike, find themselves in a situation that is not at all what they want it to be. I really enjoyed the storyline and how these two had such a rocky start, very different, and not expected. Essie is a spitfire and she is constantly testing Drayden, when he is just dealing with the situation he has found himself in and while it’s not your conventional way to deal with this type of problem? In Drayden’s eyes it’s all Essie’s fault. Drayden is mean and controlling, Essie is sarcastic but at the same time she finds herself falling for him and doesn’t know how to make things different, how to make things right or how to get to know the real Drayden. This book was well written in the way that it makes you think one thing in the beginning but as the story goes along you discover that Essie and Drayden are nothing like you thought. I found myself feeling sorry for this cruel man and hoping that Essie would be able to break down his walls and find out what was inside. The last quarter or so of the book seemed a little rushed to complete the storyline. However this did not take away from the storyline for me. The other characters in this book are intriguing as well and I am hoping to find out more about them and what is next for Drayden and Essie. I am leaving this book 4 out of 5 star review, and I do plan to recommend this one to my friends. This book was gifted to me and so return I left this honest review.


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Monday 27 April 2015

Courting Cinderella by MacKenzie Lucas

REVIEWED BY Melinda Lazar

Courting CinderellaCourting Cinderella by Mackenzie Lucas
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Courting Cinderella by Mackenzie Lucas 3.5*

**book received in exchange for honest review

I enjoyed this short read from a new to me author. It was a cute take on Cinderella and even included an evil stepmother and a 'glass slipper'. The main characters are likable enough - Raquel is a strong female and I loved her determination. I fell a little in lust with the first description of Sam and then thought he was a bit of a tool, but he thankfully redeemed himself quite well later on. As I said previously, it was a short read so I obviously wanted more in the way of character and plot development. I'm not a huge fan of insta-love books but it was still a sweet read.

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Risk It by Isabelle Drake

REVIEWED BY Ann Meemken

Risk ItRisk It by Isabelle Drake
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Gwen is a dress designer. She wanted to get her dresses noticed and meet some single men. She was invited to participate in a new reality show called Get tied down challenge. She will meet 3 single guys and at the end of the weekend has to pick the one she likes best. It sounds easy to her. Sookie the producer of the show wanted to do some photos to get public interested in the show. He could not find any of the contestants so he used the cook Conner for the photos. In one of the shots he had them kiss and sparks flew for both of them. He knew that she was the one that was there to pick an eligible bachelor, which he was not one of them. Gwen can not get this man out of her head or heart. The bachelors that she met did not stand a chance because she wanted Conner.

This is the first story I read by Isabelle. I enjoyed the story and the characters. I recomend it if you want a short story that leaves you wanting more.I was gifted an arc thru Isalovesbooks review team for an honest review.

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The Diary of Bink Cummings: Vol 2 by Bink Cummings

REVIEWED By Becky Cox

The Diary of Bink Cummings: Vol 2 (MC Chronicles, #2)The Diary of Bink Cummings: Vol 2 by Bink Cummings
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Bink is on a road of self discovery and she figures out a lot of things in Book 2. I can't wait for book 3.

She is trying to move on without her MC life. Marshall is a good man trying to take care of her. A few eye openers for ole Marshall and I have to give him kudos he tries. Her boss, Deke is a great guy and hot to boot. He is in the MC and Bink enjoys his company and the other men she works with. Sacred Sisters are still a life line for her.

I love the humor, the angst, the inner dialogue and lord knows I love me a hot biker. Some great well written sexy time.

I am truly enjoying this series and look forward to much more Bink Cummings.

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The Diary of Bink Cummings: Vol 1 by Bink Cummings


REVIEWED By Becky Cox

The Diary of Bink Cummings: Vol 1 (MC Chronicles, #1)The Diary of Bink Cummings: Vol 1 by Bink Cummings
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Never met Bink before, but I love her work and I love this book.

The Diary of Bink Cummings is well written and I connected with her character. The crassness of the environment is so realistic and reading Bink's insight to the lifestyle is enlightening.

Bink was raised in the MC, mostly at the clubhouse by the bikers. She was fortunate or unfortunate, depending on how you look at it, to have Gunz and Big and several other bikers that took her under their wing when her mother failed miserably to take care of her.

Bink walks in on Big with another woman and does something that shocks her and their eyes connect and her feelings for Big aren't so fatherly anymore.

Gotta run and read Book 2. If you love the MC genre like I do, this is a must read.

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Sweet Sleep by Kim Cormack

REVIEWED By Becky Cox

Sweet Sleep (Children of Ankh, #1 )Sweet Sleep by Kim Cormack
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

3.5 Star Rating

I was gifted a copy of this book for an honest review.

Sweet Sleep started with a bang with gruesome murders and got my attention. The twins Kayn and Chloe couldn't be more different and that is explained later in the book. I had a hard time connecting to the characters. I wish that the author had concentrated on developing and maintaining a connection with the main characters rather than just adding more and more people to the mix. As a result, I found it difficult to connect with any one character. This is a solid story line and interesting series being developed. It is a YA, which I enjoy reading.

Sweet Sleep starts the Children of Ankh series and I definitely see potential for a great story. I enjoyed this novel, just felt a bit disconnected from it.

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Shattered Lies by Theresa Sederholt

REVIEWED  By Emma White


Shattered Lies (The Unraveled Trilogy, #3)Shattered Lies by Theresa Sederholt
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

OMG loved it so much !!!
There are quite a few characters to get the hang of in the start.
But once I got to grips with them all, I fell in love with each and everyone of them !!
Maxwell and Jackie have some serious issues to deal with. Will they get to have a happy ever after.?
Jaxson and Raven can they get the outcome they are looking for in their life?
So much to tell but don't like to spoil a book for anyone
Love Romance and Revenge all wrapped up in an amazing story.
A Must Read for sure. 5 stars.

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Pretty Remedy by S.E. Hall

REVIEWED By Becky Cox



Pretty Remedy (Finally Found, #2)Pretty Remedy by S.E. Hall
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

4.5 Star Rating

Pretty Remedy was a great read. It isn't as funny as Book 1 but is great in its own right. Reese is shy and inexperienced but determined. She has a path she has set her mind to and nothing is going to deter her from reach her goal. Don't get me wrong, Reese has her comedic moments as well.

Rhett is a gorgeous sexy man. He is trying to find what is missing in his life and it isn't the long string of woman he is sleeping with..once.

I am a fan of SE Hall and would highly recommend this book. If you haven't read Pretty Instinct it is most definitely a must.

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All About Us by Author Ashley Erin

REVIEWED BY Tina Shobe

All About Us (All Or Nothing #1)All About Us by Ashley Erin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

After years away Emma moves back to her Grandfather's ranch, which is next door to childhood friends Dane and his sister, Lia. She is hoping by moving there she can get her footing again after suffering the tragic losses of her parents and grandfather.

Dane has always had a special place in his heart of Emma and does his best to help her mend. Like with any relationship they have some rocky patches which makes it so realistic and draws you end because you want to see them happy together.

I could not put this book down! I loved it!

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The Player by Author J.D. Chase

REVIEWED BY Tina Shobe

The Player (Rouge Passion, #1)The Player by J.D. Chase
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

One word describes this book....HOT!

Isla is managing a hotel that comes into new management. She sure doesn't expect to be working for someone like Xander, a very arrogant, dominent Alpha Male.

I was secretly hoping she would end up the the barman, but it didn't take long to realize that her match is Xander.

Super, super steamy sex, very strong language...I had to put the book a few times to go 'cool off'.

This is a great written book. Xander is so secretative that it makes you drive right in and poor Isla has had her heartbroken by a lousy cheating ex that you just want to see her succeed.


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The Redeemer by J.D. Chase

REVIEWED BY Tina Shobe

The Redeemer (Rouge Passion, #2)The Redeemer by J.D. Chase
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Oh Wow! I could not wait to read this book after the bomb drop at the end of 1st book, The Player.

This book is fast paced and at points had me cheering "Go get him Isla!" You just don't mess with a woman scorned.

Lots of twists in this book that kept me hooked from the beginning. I seriously did not put this book down until it was finished. Of course, there was some steamy hot sex included.

I don't want to give away any spoilers but I so wanted to see the ex and soon to be ex get theirs in the end. Isla and Xander deserve it but being together at the end is justice enough.


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Asa by Author Jay Crownover

REVIEWED BY Micky Barnard

Asa (Marked Men, #6)Asa by Jay Crownover
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

It's bittersweet to be finishing the Marked Men journey because I could read about more characters. The sweet is definitely getting to Asa. The cover certainly inspires but it's the words that seal the deal.

Asa believes that he is bad to the bone despite his reformed life. His brush with death that we read about in Jet, left him with a conscience and he can't forget the misdeeds of the past. Asa does not feel worthy to be part of the Marked family. Royal is the sassy cop from Nash's story and she's making a play for Asa full pelt. Royal is reeling from a work incident that has scarred her and Asa turns the tables as he bails her out of her bad behaviour. These two have sparks. The characters and scenes between them are great and there's a twist along the way.

One of the wonderful things about this book is the snapshots of the rest of the Marked crew. It doesn't feel convenient and it's definitely fulfilling to see their lives develop. Sigh. I can't wait for Jay Crownover's next series.

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Saturday 25 April 2015

Gabe:The Alvarez Security Series by Maryann Jordan.

REVIEWED By Tina Shobe

Gabe: The Alvarez Security SeriesGabe: The Alvarez Security Series by Maryann Jordan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Gabe is part of a security force and meets Jenny in an alley while on the job. He is immediately drawn to her and pursues her. He is carrying baggage from his Special Forces Days and Jenny is raising her brother, Ross after her parents are killed in an accident. Her world resolves around her brother and her senior citizen center. I was really drawn into this book. I loved how the characters all intermingled from the seniors from the center to the men that are part of the security force team which includes Gabe's, Vinny. They became one big family. I absolutely loved this book! I will definitely be reading the rest of the series!

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The Rush by Rachel Higginson

REVIEWED BY Micky Barnard

The Rush (The Siren, #1)The Rush by Rachel Higginson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars


To all intents and purposes this book reads like a straight YA initially. Very good YA but you can feel the twist in the background; it's subtle. Ivy returns to high school at 16 after a stint in 'rehab'. Something awful happened that left her previous boyfriend Sam irreparably damaged, never to return to school. Ivy is reviled by many but she's taken under the wing of some members of the football team. Ivy is drawn to Ryder but he has a girlfriend and seems immune to Ivy's charms. This is the nub of confusion for Ivy. No male is supposed to be able to resist her charms. Ivy is different and she hates her life.

This was far from run of the mill YA. It has a subtle paranormal thread running through it. It is well written and the characters are believable in their flawed reality. This is the first of three books so I'm looking forward to the continuation of these characters.

This book was provided by the publisher in return for an honest review.

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Thursday 23 April 2015

Matt-The Beginning by Viveca Benoir

REVIEWED BY Emma White


Matt - the BeginningMatt - the Beginning by Viveca Benoir
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book takes you back to the begining of how Matt became so troubled!
It started from birth so the question you need to ask is are we all born the same and is it the way we are brought up maybe evil in just in some of us from the start..
I was so upset for the little boy at the beginning, But it doesn't last long and by the end I wanted him bed ..
Matt is the devil walking amongst us!
would not recommened if you have never read a dark book before, you need to have some experiance with what you are about to read !!!
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Redemption by S. Nelson

REVIEWED BY Emma White

RedemptionRedemption by S. Nelson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Lila has had a bit of a rough life, taking care of her mum by herself for a few years batteling with cancer has really taken a toll on her!
Losing her job again she takes a position as a maid for Maxwell Mason.........
Maxwell Mason blows hot and cold and has a secret to keep and Lila to keep safe. but when the two world collide, He is put in an even darker place than before .. He now needs to save Lila to save himself as well.
Chemistry is red hot between the two of them. It's a fantastic story a must read
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Wednesday 22 April 2015

Stoneheart by Baer Charlton

REVIEWED By Becky Cox

StoneheartStoneheart by Baer Charlton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Stone a Gunnery Sargent, retires after 39 years in the service. He is medically retired due to a traumatic head injury causing his left eyesight to come and go. His entire life has been the military. If you know anyone that has retired after a lifetime of service, transition to civilian life is very difficult. My dad retired after over twenty years of service and it was not an easy transition for him.

Having no remaining living family members Stone has no home to return to after being medically retired. He purchases a motorcycle and begins traveling, meeting people, attempting to deal with his PTSD and THI. He is on a journey of discovery when he gets a phone call that changes everything.

I enjoyed this journey with Stone and the people he met along the way. This is a well written story that needs to be told for the benefit of our returning troops with physical and mental disabilities from their service to our country. It is eyeopening what little is done for the rehabilitation and medical/mental treatment for our troops. Baer's characters are wonderfully developed and I connected with all of them. Through the laughter, angst and yes a few tears, a wonderful story emerges.

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Aflame by Penelope Douglas

REVIEWED by Becky Cox


Aflame (Fall Away, #4)Aflame by Penelope Douglas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved Jared and Tate from the beginning and anxiously awaited Aflame. I enjoyed this series starting with Bully, and if you haven't read them from the first book you really need to do so. Aflame gave me the closure I needed for all of these characters.

All the boys Madoc, Jax and Jared are hot, but Jared is my favorite. Penelope gave us a beautiful story of growth, acceptance and love. I hate to see this series end, but Penelope did a beautiful job of wrapping it up.

Thanks for an amazing series!



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Art & Soul by Brittainy C. Cherry

REVIEWED By Melinda Lazar

Art & SoulArt & Soul by Brittainy C. Cherry
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Art & Soul by Brittainy C Cherry

**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.

Wow what an amazing book this author has written. There is no possible way that my review can do this book any justice, but I'm going to try!

Art & Soul is packed with every emotion you can possibly think of and then some. It is powerful and confronting and absolutely real.
I have never cried and highlighted so many one-liners, paragraphs, even entire pages in a single book as I did while reading this.

I absolutely adored Levi. He was such a strong and uplifting character and even at certain scenes where a lesser person would have crumbled, he was still inspirational. Aria was a female character that I loved from the get-go. My heart broke for her over and over throughout this book but she proved her resilience and quiet strength time and time again. The relationship between these two characters is a slow-building one that was beautiful and we are so lucky to be a part of it.

As I mentioned above, this book was definitely a bit of a roller-coaster ride: crying one minute then laughing the next and then of course ready to throw my ereader across the room at yet another. In short, it is brilliant. The writing is fluid, flawless, effortless and totally unique to Brittainy C Cherry. She knows how to wring every emotion possible from you and I love it (except when I'm cursing her for the ugly tears)! While Aria is a painter, Ms Cherry is the true artist. Brava on an amazing book. I don't hesitate to recommend Art & Soul.

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Grind: A Legal Affairs Story by Sawyer Bennett

REVIEWED By Melinda Lazar


Grind: A Legal Affairs Story (Cal and Macy, #2)Grind: A Legal Affairs Story by Sawyer Bennett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Grind by Sawyer Bennett

Oh my GOD! I just finished this book minutes ago and I'm in disbelief that Sawyer stopped where she did!
This is the second book in Sawyer Bennetts A Legal Affairs Story series (a Legal Affairs spinoff) and the books definitely need to be read in order. Again, this is mainly written in Cal's POV with diary entries from Macy which I really love. I'm also loving the way their relationship is developing and I really love that Cal isn't just giving up on Macy and that she's opening up by degrees.
We still don't know what Macy's secret is so I'll be on tenterhooks waiting for the final installment of this series!

Book received in exchange for an honest review.

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Lovely Distraction by J.J. Dorn

REVIEWED BY Melinda Lazar


Lovely DistractionLovely Distraction by J.J. Dorn
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

Lovely Distraction by JJ Dorn
2 Stars.

When I read the blurb to Lovely Distraction, I was intrigued and truly looked forward to reading the book! Unfortunately, the book fell quite a bit short of expectations. I think that while the premise of the book was promising, the characters weren't really likeable and I found it difficult to connect with them. I also felt like the author just kept throwing more and more drama into the book to fill pages and it was really just too much. The story is written in both past and present tense and I don't think there was enough distinction (for me at least) between the two to eliminate confusion. Further to that, the lack of editing was a huge problem that I just couldn't ignore. Overall, I think this had the potential to be a great story, but unfortunately left me flat.
I received this book in exchange for an honest review.

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Tuesday 21 April 2015

Art & Soul by Brittainy C. Cherry

REVIEWED By Becky Cox


Art & SoulArt & Soul by Brittainy C. Cherry
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Art & Soul is one of those novels that will stay with me for a long time. My heart hurts. I highlighted so many passages that my kindle turned pink.

Aria, an artsy girl on the outside of the in-crowd, became the high school pregnancy statistic after one bad decision. Levi moved to town to try and reconnect with his father.

They didn't intend to fall in love. But they did, and it was epic.

Brittainy has written a beautiful story of heartache, bad decisions, art, music, illness, laughter and most importantly love.

Mom used to tell me that happiness didn't last, so a person should hold onto it as long as possible, without questions, without regrets.

Whenever she smiled, I felt like I was winning at life.

Being around him felt like being around someone who saw your scars and called them beautiful when you only saw your past mistakes.

Maybe it wasn't about fixing the broken hearts. Maybe it was about loving the broken pieces the way they were.

and last but not least...

Music understood me when I didn't understand myself.

I can't recommend this book enough. It is beautiful and moving and all things a great book should be.

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A review of Falloir by J.D. Chase


REVIEWED BY Becky Cox

Falloir (Passion Noire #2)Falloir by J.D. Chase
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was gifted a copy of Falloir for an honest review.

Falloir picks up immediately where Vouloir left off. There is a cliffhanger and I am dying for Avoir to come out which is anticipated in June.

I love Veuve's rough exterior and her warm gooey interior. She loves The Kid as if he were her own and is a bit threatened by his relationship with Jones. She feels so deeply for her teenage patients and it is endearing. On the other hand she is an uncompromising Domme. I am fascinated by her character.

Jone's is such a great guy, I want him for myself.

I enjoyed the alternating POV's and think it gives greater insight into the story. The Kid's POV is entertainment at its best.

There are numerous twist and turns in this book and a few "ah ha" moments. It contains heavy subject matter and really made me think. This series is definitely one that will stay with me for awhile. There is a message from JD at the end and it is very enlightening about the real issues covered in this book.

Even though Vouvoir and Falloir are based on a dark world it is excellently written and draws you into the story. There are numerous moments of humor which help lighten the mood. I would highly recommend this book.

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Vouloir (Passion Noire, #1)Vouloir by J.D. Chase
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was gifted a copy of this book for an honest review.

This book blew me away. To be honest I am already reading the next in the series, Falloir, because I have to know what happens. Such an original angle and intriguing characters. J.D. Chase is new to me. Her writing style in Vouloir is near perfection. The emotions of Veuve both as a therapist and a Domme are so well done that I was living the pages with her. Jones, Jones, Jones...now there is a hot alpha.

Vouloir: to want, wish, desire; to see oneself as; to give the impression of, to seem

Veuve has been through something horrible. She rescues The Kid from something just as horrific. Jones is trying to protect them both. Jones believes a D/s relationship with Veuve is what he has been searching for to quiet his need.

There is a cliffhanger. Something ugly is coming, I can feel it.

The next in the series is already available. I highly recommend this book. It is an experience you don't want to miss.

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Tuesday 14 April 2015

Love With Every Beat by K.L. Shandwick

REVIEWED BY Becky Cox

Love with Every BeatLove with Every Beat by K.L. Shandwick
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was my favorite of this series. I very much enjoyed Alfie's point of view. Lily and Alfie had a long journey and so many up and downs in their relationship. Both seeking careers as rock stars and Alfie's responsibilities left them on a roller coaster. Lily's habit of running definitely made it hard for them to be together.

Lily's uncertainty in their relationship lead her to make some unfortunate decisions early on but she grows up and learns from her mistakes.

Lily and Alfie have amazing chemistry and there is plenty of hot sexy time.

A hot emotional read.

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Everything I Want by K.L. Shandwick

REVIEWED By Becky Cox


Everything I Want  (The Everything Trilogy #3)Everything I Want by K.L. Shandwick
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Everything I Want is the conclusion of The Everything Trilogy from Lily's POV.

You must read the first two books in this series.

Lily has made her decision to go on without Alfie. Putting her all into her band and their future and graduating college keep her focused for the most part.

Even though mentally she feels this is the right decision, her heart still aches for what could have been with Alfie. Lily is lucky to have wonderfully supported parents and great friends. She started seeing Luca, a sweet hot Italian.

Lily thinks she has her emotions under control, until she seems him again.

A great read.

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Choose Me by Heidi McLaughlin

REVIEWED by Becky Cox

Choose Me (The Archer Brothers, #2)Choose Me by Heidi McLaughlin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow, where to begin. I love the Archer Brothers! They are both wonderful sexy men in different ways.

Choose Me is soooooo emotional and heart wrenching. I adored every page. There are some interesting twists that unravel in their quest to discovery why Evan was gone for so long.

Ryley has the love of two amazing men and is trying to find her way without destroying all of them, as well as doing what she feels best for her son EJ.

I can't recommend this book and this series enough. I am a military brat so I felt a real connection with these characters. If you want to read about real life true love, here it is.

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Silver Bastard by Joanna Wylde

REVIEWED By Becky Cox

Silver Bastard (Silver Valley, #1)Silver Bastard by Joanna Wylde
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Silver Bastard is dark, dirty, sexy and didn't I just love it! I am a big fan of the Reaper series and a few of the characters pop up Silver Bastard.

Becca and Puck meet under the worst of circumstances. Puck served his time for the MC and just wanted to celebrate. What starts out as a great night for Puck celebrating his release from prison, ends in a life altering situation with Becca, her druggy mom and disgusting stepfather.

Puck unintentionally hurts Becca, but in so doing saves her. Becca finds hope for her future.

These two collide in a wonderful twisty dirty love story. Joanna Wylde can write a sex scene that would make a hooker sweat. Super excited for upcoming books in the new Silver Valley series.

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Monday 13 April 2015

Risk It by Isabelle Drake

REVIEWED By Joanne Swinney

Risk ItRisk It by Isabelle Drake
My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Good short story.

Gwen was newly single. Trying to get her fashion designs noticed. She entered a competition to spend a whole weekend with three men, hoping to meet the man of her dreams and wear her fabulous dresses so people would want to buy them. We all know great plans generally don't work out so great.
The weekend is to be spent on a ranch being wine and dine by each man.
The producer, Sookie had high expectations. From the minute Gwen arrived, she told her she had to kiss a man, get the public interested in the show. None of the male contestants were around so she made her kiss the cook, Connor. It was a very long and lingering kiss.
No doubt after that kiss the contestants whomever they were would stand a chance.
This was a very short story, just enough to tickle your taste buds. If you like something quick to read, this is the book for you.

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Monster Chef by Margaret McHeyzer

REVIEWED By Lynette Kelly 



My review for Monster Chef
By Margaret McHeyzer
4 Michelin stars! 
Holly Walker lost her husband in a tragic accident, she is left well cared for, but has a 7 year old daughter to raise. Holly decides to go back to work, she gets a job at a once Michelin Star restaurant Table One.
Cue the hot, fiery tempered, arrogant head chef Pierre Le Roux. Pierre is broken man full of pain who is on the verge of alcoholism due to his wife's death, he goes through the motions of work, snapping at everyone who gets in his way.
Holly and Pierre have sizzling chemistry from the off. Holly is fearless and takes no nonsense from Pierre, and Pierre sees Holly as more than just a work colleague. The two begin to have feelings for each other that they'd thought were buried with their partners. Pierre is beginning to see that there is there is more to life than alcohol, namely Holly and her beautiful daughter.
I found the story heartbreaking at times, both people are grieving for their lost loves but dealing with it in different ways. In contrast to the heartbreak and sadness there were hot steamy sex scenes which I thought were fantastically written.
This story had me drooling in more ways than one, food and hot sex scenes what's not to like? This is this first book I've read from this author but no doubt I will pick up another one soon!

Lighter by Gia Riley

REVIEWED By Lynette Kelly




My review of Lighter
By Gia Riley 
I loved the blurb of this book, I just hoped that by the time I got to the end that I wasn't disappointed and thankfully I wasn't, I loved the book....HARD!. The perfect mix of romance, heartache, tears, just WOW in every way. 
Sophie is just broken, living on the edge of life, she has been battered and bruised my heart broke for her so many times throughout this book. Kipton has had his faults but is the most perfect man, I loved his character, he was funny, caring and damn hot, we all should have a Kipton in our lives.
Gia writes beautifully, the book had hard hitting story lines at times and I thought that Gia handled these with great sensitivity. The book had so many twists and turns that I struggled to put it down.
This is the first book I have read by this author, however, I can honestly say it won't be the last. 
5 amazing stars for this fantastic book.

Etched In Stone by Mayra Statham

REVIEWED By Lynette Kelly 



Review for Etched in Stone
By Mayra Statham
Parker Stone a successful 34 year old business man, he's enjoying life and he doesn't believe that there is just one person for you, he has plenty of females for company but none that he would want to settle down with, until he hears a female laugh that that's captures his attention, then, in that moment, he sees a gorgeous, curvy brunette his Angel.
Liza Del Rio's life has been a huge disappointment she has experienced too much heartbreak to let anyone else in. Doing what she can to pay the bills after she was dumped by her boyfriend, she gets her life back on track and has 3 amazing friends and part owns a bakery. At a clients wedding reception she is delivering one her of cakes when she meets a very handsome charmer, who for the first time in a long time has her intrigued. liz's life is about to become a lot more interesting, and her past comes back to haunt her.
I loved the chemistry between Parker and Liz, the breaking down of her walls to let him in. The romance was beautiful and this book had bundles of it. Just when you thought you knew how this book was playing out, another curveball was added to keep me sucked in until the very end.
I would rate this book a fab 5 stars, and I will definitely be purchasing more in this series.

That Time with Sugar by Tess Oliver

REVIEWED By Melinda Lazar

That Time with SugarThat Time with Sugar by Tess Oliver
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

That Time With Sugar by Tess Oliver

This book has been on my wishlist since before its release, so when I was offered a copy in exchange for a review, I jumped right at it. I have read and thoroughly enjoyed several other books by this author and I thought that That Time With Sugar would follow along the same lines. Well, let's just say this wasn't quite like anything I've read before - and I really enjoyed it! The story is basically told in reverse where we first meet the interesting trio of misfits - Tommy, Sugar (yes, it's her name) and Jules - at an upscale rehab clinic. All have their own addictions and illnesses that they're dealing with and either trying to overcome or just live with.
The story is told by Tommy, however all three of the main characters were absolutely captivating from the get-go. Tommy is definitely a complicated man with deep anger issues but you could feel his love for Sugar and really, you just can't help but love him. I wasn't a fan of Sugar to begin with because of her beyond-flirty nature, but thanks to the way the book is written and that its told by Tommy who is insanely in love with her, you end up loving her too. As Tommy says '...she finds good in everything.' And Jules with his idiosyncrasies, and how he handled the blows thrown at him, was probably the most fascinating to me and I definitely preferred him off his meds than on!
While this is far from a light and fluffy read, I did find myself smiling at times and other times swallowing back tears. There was also plenty of intrigue to keep me guessing and I loved how everything unfolded. The book was beautifully written, but I really wish there had been more of the present day. But maybe I'm just greedy, I don't know. Great read and I can definitely recommend it with 4.5*

**Book gifted by author in exchange for an honest review.

Reviewed for Jo&IsaLoveBooks Blog

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Shy Kinda Love by Deanna Eshler

REVIEWED By Monique Cashmere

Shy Kinda LoveShy Kinda Love by Deanna Eshler
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

After living with her father in brutal conditions for the last four years, Nicole Redding escapes with her life, not before killing a man in self defence, Samuel Munro, one of the Human Trafficking ring brothers. Marco Munro, the other brother, is on the run with nothing to loose, which is why Nicole needs to disappear and go into witness protection. She is now Shyanne Adams, and with the help of her childhood friend Ryder, she moves to Ohio.

Thus begins her slow recovery back to being mentally healthy again. Of course, with everything she has been through, she is not about to trust anyone but Ryder. He decides that after three years, and on her 21st birthday, it is time to meet and greet the world. This is when she meets Gemma and Keegan who become her new BFF's. She also meets Mr Patrón, aka Kade.

From here we have Shy learning to have friends in her life again, and if she dares, a boyfriend. The things holding her back? Trust - that she wont be hurt again and Marco Munro - coming back to finish off what he started.

I enjoyed reading this book. There were times that I could predict an outcome and where I thought something might play out, didn't. So I was kept interested. This book is more about relationships than action and revenge. Shy is on a journey of self discovery and forgiveness that I found touching. I respect the author's insight in abused victims and how they heal. I especially liked the equine assisted psychotherapy aspect to the story. Shy wasn't going to heal quickly with her abuse, and I appreciated the author not rushing her into a physical relationship with Kade, which would have been unrealistic.

Reviewed for Jo&IsaLoveBooks Blog.
Author provided me with this book in exchange for an honest review.

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Thursday 9 April 2015

Manwhore by Katy Evans

REVIEWED By Becky Cox


Manwhore (Manwhore, #1)Manwhore by Katy Evans
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I don't know how Katy does it, but I swear when I read one of her books I feel it. Manwhore is no exception. Saint (Malcolm) and Rachel are scorching together.

Malcolm Saint born into a wealthy family, has made a fortune of his own. He is known for his philandering and private exclusive parties at his penthouse.

Rachel Livingston is an up and coming journalist for Edge Magazine. The magazine is floundering and she is a given an assignment in the hopes of saving the magazine, an expose' on Malcolm Saint. This is her chance to put herself on the journalism map and save the magazine.

When they meet...it is electric.

I love these characters. I felt their frustration, fear and passion. I am once again blown away by Katy Evans. I was concerned that my kindle was going to melt.

Humor, angst and oh so much sexual intensity. I am impatiently waiting July and Manwhore +1.



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Fiend by Rachael Orman


REVIEWED By Tina Shobe


Fiend (Cravings #2)Fiend by Rachael Orman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was advised that this was not a 'stand alone' book but I didn't read the first book prior to reading this book and had no problems following along with Alix and John's story.

I really felt for these two. Seems like they finally are 'clicking' and along comes an Ex of John's that is doing her best to split them up.

As the story goes along I think we see more and more of John's 'true' self and the great love he has for Alix.

The sex scenes are awesome.

I love Alix! What a strong person she is. Kudos to her to seeing beyond John's layers to the person he is beneath.

I'm now going back and reading the first book as I want to get the 'whole' story and I can't wait for the third book!

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Travis by Tracie Podger


REVIEWED By Tina Shobe


TravisTravis by Tracie Podger
                        My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is part of the Fallen Angel Series but it can stand alone.

You can't help but feel for Travis. There was parts of the story that I was even crying. At 11 years old he is living on the streets leaving his family in order to survive. Luckily he meet up with Robert. He grounded Travis and really shaped him into the man he became.

I really like how the story went into detail about how they met, how they survived and how they overcame to become the successful men they are. It gives a lot of depth of how these two boys lives are shaped and just how connected they are. they may not be blood but they are brothers.

Very well written book. I absolutely loved it!


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Here With Me by Heidi McLaughlin

REVIEWED By Becky Cox

Here with Me (The Archer Brothers, #1)Here with Me by Heidi McLaughlin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Love. Heartbreak. PTSD. Impossible Decisions.

Ryley and Evan were high school sweethearts. After years together they were still impossibly happy, until the unthinkable happens and Ryley is told Evan died in action. After years of mourning his death Ryley finally starts to move on and Nate, Evan's twin brother, goes from best friend to fiance'.

Evan returns from a six year secret mission, unaware that Ryley has been told he is dead. He has dreamed of returning to his fiance Ryley and his baby boy EJ the entire time he was away. What he comes home to is the love of his life wearing his twin brother's engagement ring.

This book is full of love and heartache. There is some mysterious and a few interesting twist. It is beautifully written and tore at my heart strings. There is a cliffhanger of sorts and I and heading straight to read the next book. I would highly recommend this book.



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Conflicted on 5th Avenue by Abbie St. Claire

REVIEWED By Tina Shobe


Conflicted on 5th Avenue (A 5th Avenue Romance, #1)Conflicted on 5th Avenue by Abbie St. Claire
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Dr. Ian Briggs is a widowed single dad that was living in California who lost his wife in an accident. He relocates to Texas after being offered a job he takes hoping to give his son and himself a better life.

There he meets beautiful single Mom, Chelsie Peterson, who lives in his new neighborhood. Her ex husband has done a lot of damage on her self-esteem. Through Ian she learns she truelly is beautiful and sexual.

Both Ian and Chelsie have baggage from their past and because of it they have some rocky patches. They have to learn to not shut each other out, trust each other and love again.

This book is very well written and draws you right in. I read the book through in one sitting. I just had to know what was going to happen.

This is the 1st book in the 5th Avenue Series. I can't wait to read the next book in the series.

Well done, Abbie St. Claire!!! Love it!!!


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Mr. Wright Now by Alannah Carbonneau

REVIEWED BY Melinda Lazar


Mr. Wright Now (A Wild Card Novel - Book 1)Mr. Wright Now by Alannah Carbonneau
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Mr Wright Now by Alannah Carbonneau

This is a great start to a new serial by Alannah Carbonneau. I really enjoyed getting to know Nelena and Kade and the sexy times were just so hot!
This book grabbed me right from the start and I really couldn't put it down until I finished. The cliffy was on me before I knew it and I'm eagerly anticipating the next book.

Reviewed for Jo&IsaLoveBooks Blog

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Against The Tide by Author Nikki Groom


REVIEWED BY Emma White

Against the TideAgainst the Tide by Nikki Groom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have read a lot of books and I have to say this is a good one!!
There is so much to keep you riveted to your seat for hours.
Finn and Meg have a deep connection which pulls them together but the events that follow could tear them apart straight away.
Finn is very mixed up. Emotions every where so will Meg tame him does she really want to ??
One night stands death drugs and so much more !!!!!
I loved it so much I got it on paperback now as well.
I could read it again and again
Reviewed of JoandIsalovesbooks Blog

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The Summer Remains by Author Seth King

REVIEWED By Monique Cashmere

The Summer RemainsThe Summer Remains by Seth King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was out running a few errands and was ahead of schedule and thought I would grab a coffee and sit and start this book before my appointment. I was hooked from the start, that I considered cancelling said appointment to go home and curl up to be submerged in this story.

Seth King is very talented, and has a way with words. The story of Summer and Cooper was a treasure to read. Summer actually says in the book that "The mark of a good book is wanting to shout it out to strangers and gouge your eyeballs out so you could re read it again with brand new eyes." I now know that feeling. Another line in the book that I loved was Summer's, "Simply put, he was a goner, and I was the executioner. Hook, line and sinker : my lies were deadly, and he was done."

Summer is a twenty-four year old woman who needs a life threatening operation and has asked for the summer to find love. Through an app, she meets Cooper. Things don't go too smoothly for them at the start, but as love is, they grow on each other and form a beautiful friendship before it develops into something more. Cooper is the drop dead gorgeous guy that has issues on the inside. Summer with her scars on the outside finds it hard he could love her, warts and all. The thoughtful things Cooper does for Summer to prove to her that she is special, that for him, she is glowing is tender and attentive. I love their texts - especially Cooper's one after the operation. And even though Cooper was the professional writer, Summer sends him an emotional email thanking him for an awesome summer that had me ugly crying for some time.

Cooper gives a speech that I was thankful that there wasn't another Saviour lyric, but his own wonderful words. This book teaches us about loving someone unconditionally and looking beyond the surface facade.

I would highly recommend this book but be warned of the emotional roller coaster it will take you on.

Reviewed for Jo&IsaLoveBooks Blog.
Author provided me with this book in exchange for an honest review.

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Wednesday 8 April 2015

For Adriano by Soraya Naomi

REVIEWED By Melinda Lazar

For Adriano (Chicago Syndicate, #3)For Adriano by Soraya Naomi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

For Adriano by Soraya Naomi

I have been waiting on tenterhooks since For Luca to get my hands on Adriano and my God, Soraya Naomi has totally exceeded every expectation I had. This book is the first book in the Adriano/Camilla duet and while it can be read without reading the previous two books in the Chicago Syndicate, I strongly urge you to do so because there are spoilers and you will want to go back and read For Fallon and For Luca!
So as I said, this is all about Adriano and Camilla. We learn what Camilla has been up to, where she has been hiding and all about her devastating past. We also learn so much about Adriano and his family, commitments and most importantly (to me) his feelings for Cam. The characters are truly amazing and their development is spot on. Camilla is an insanely strong character in spite of, or perhaps because of, what she's been through and Adriano is all sorts of alpha wrapped up in an intense package. And just quietly, if you want a sexy bad boy, then Adriano is possibly the baddest of them all. The book is brilliantly told in dual POV and Soraya threw in a few twists that came completely out of left field and that left me pleasantly surprised. I honestly couldn't put this book down till I was nearing the end and had to slow down as I just didn't want it to finish! While this doesn't end in a cliffhanger, I absolutely cannot wait for the next book in this duet and the Chicago syndicate. In my humble opinion, this is Soraya Naomi's best yet and I can't recommend it enough.

**I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Reviewed for Jo&IsaLoveBooks Blog.

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Tuesday 7 April 2015

Acting Brave by Helena Newbury.

REVIEWED By Isa Jones

Acting Brave (Fenbrook Academy #3)Acting Brave by Helena Newbury
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was given this book by the author in exchange of an honest review.

I have been privileged to have read the previous books in the Fenbroook Academy Series. Whereas the two first books in the series were really really good and very well written, this book was exceptional. Not only does the author had a brilliant story line, she also had to deliver several characters, well not several characters but the female lead has to take on a new personality but at the same time remain herself, I know this sounds complicated well imagine the challenge that Helena had!
This book tells the story of Emma (Jasmine) and Ryan, as with previous stories they evolve around Fenbrook Academy and thus allow us to get a glimpse to the other couples from the 1st and 2nd book. Here Emma is a girl that has grown up in a terrible environment but has always aspired to be an actress, after a terrifying and traumatic event she escapes from her past and therefore has to create a completely new identity in order to survive and be free in this new home, in doing so by adopting a new Identity she has to build a completely new personality forgetting everything that can remind her of who she is and where she's come from, but in order for her to do that, she must take on this new role and bury her old self, that means, her name, accent, mannerisms, anything that will potentially give away who she is.
Ryan is a complete opposite, he has grown to a loving and caring family and has always been able to follow his dreams of becoming a cop, his partner is one of his best friends and together they make a wonderful team. By chance one night whilst on duty, Ryan is called to a scene of an incident involving "Jasmine" and from the moment they both met things are never the same for them. Ryan spends every single moment fantasising about Jasmine and waiting for any opportunity when he can see her, even if just a glimpse to get him through the day, for Jasmine is the same but she doesn't want to jeopardise what she has worked for, thus only allowing herself a few short "Ryan Moments" to appease her heart.
Fate however has other plans, and circumstances beyond control will throw this two characters together in the least expected way and by doing so they will have to spend time in each others company, risking not only their hearts but their lives.

I absolutely enjoyed each and every chapter of this story, I love the ability to read from each lead point of view. The dialogues are well crafted and the plot is very original. Plenty of Steamy moments, Suspense, Drama, Romance, totally heart felt and full of emotion. The perfect package.
I can't wait for the next in the series!. WELL DONE HELENA NEWBURY.

5 AWARD WINNING STARS!! ISALOVESBOOKS



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Give Me a Reason (Redemption Hills, #1) by A.L. Jackson

  Give Me a Reason by A.L. Jackson My rating: 5 of 5 stars This BOOK deserves all the recognition and praises it has received. From that ...