August Reviews
Unraveled by Jennifer Estep
Urban Fantasy - August 30th, 2016
4 stars
As part of the Elemental Assassin series, this book could be read alone but is even better having read the prior books.
Gin is a trained assassin that has reluctantly found herself crowned the new Crime Queen. A title she inherited after supposedly getting rid of the big mob bosses causing her city trouble. Now she is constantly under threat as criminals try to take over and depose her! Plus she is discovering a new and disturbing threat from a mysterious and shadowy crime syndicate only known as the Circle. So when her adopted brother, Finn, inherits an Old West theme park from his mother he persuades Gin to come with him to investigate and get away from her troubles. Gin reluctantly agrees and the rest of the gang pack up anticipating a light-hearted trip. But instead they find serious trouble! First there are prospectors looking for lost jewels and some mysterious accidents at the theme park. (As a promotion, Finn's mother took the jewels of the original theme park owner and hid them in the park. She then stated that anyone who finds them can keep them!) Soon they discover that agents of the Circle have been sent to the theme park to murder Gin and the rest of her gang, too. Disaster seems to strike when everyone is captured except Gin. She must find a way to save them and the hidden jewels before it's too late!
Jennifer Estep has done it again! This amusing romp will be sure to entertain fans of this series. The treasure hunt, introduction of the Circle and flashbacks into Gin's past make this a refreshing injection of new life into the story line. The reader will also learn more about Gin's powerful ice elemental mother and Gin's sisters. Meanwhile, Finn is healing from the last book and returning to his usual irreverent self. The associates of the deadly Circle make the action fast paced as Gin tries to stay alive and keep those she love healthy, too. I only wish the dwarves could have been featured in the story! This book will definitely entertain and I only hope that the author 'Unravels' more of Gin's past and the Circle in upcoming books.
Gin is an unstoppable character!
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Mad for the Plaid by Karen Hawkins
Historical Romance Aug 30th, 2016
4 stars
Alisa Mackenzie is young, smart and in charge. Although a woman her father has left her in charge of the estate while he is away. The first challenge to her charge is the arrival of her grandmother's friend, the Duchess Natasha Nikolaevna. The Duchess is a frisky woman who seems to delight in getting into trouble. When it appears that she and a neighbor may have been abducted, Alisa feels she must inform the Duchess's grandson, Nikolai Romanovin. Alisa has already corresponded with the arrogant prince of Oxenburg and disliked him immensely. Although he appears to be a wastrel, the prince is actually a clever spy for his country. Currently, he is trying to tie up a delicate diplomatic negotiations. But his dearly loves his missing grandmother and overrides his other responsibilities. Nikolai disguises himself as a groom and travels to Edinburgh to find his her. But he soon finds duplicity discovered by Alisa. And thats then the sparks really start to fly between Alisa and Nikolai! As the both fight over how best to find the Duchess. But when those sparks quicky ignite to passion.
Alisa is spunky and independent. She doesn't want to ask for help, but prove she is capable as any man. Having to ask the prince for help irritates her to no end. But when he arrives she can't help her attraction to him. As they are thrown together to save the Duchess, Alisa soon finds that she admires the prince after she sees behind his arrogant facade. Nikolai is actually a serious man with determination. And now all this focused concentration is set on finding her beloved grandmother. But finds that his clever mind and ruthlessness are stonewalled by the tempestuous Scottish lass Alisa. As they both try to find out who is behind the abduction the stakes get higher. But when betrayal is revealed, Nikolai leaves. As they try to recover I was touched by how much they clearly care for one another. The sneaky Duchess plays a pivotal role in matchmaking -which is fun to read!
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
The Pleasure of the Rose by Jane Bonander
Historical Romance- Aug 23rd, 2016
4 stars
This unusual historical romance starts slow but is sweet indeed!
Fletcher MacNeil is a half-breed. Scottish and Comanche he has had to live with the cruel prejudices of his heritage. But as he lays in a prison cell prepared to die he gets one more chance. Fletcher finds out from a loyal family retainer that his relatives have died and he is now the heir to Castle Sheiling in Scotland. Now a duke, the desperate retainer wants Fletcher to return to Scotland. But on the journey back Fletcher gets deathly ill and the retainer's sister, Rosalyn Geddes must nurse him back to health. Rosalyn at first wants nothing to do with the savage new Duke. And when her brother strongly suggests she should marry Fletcher to produce a required heir so Fletcher can keep his title, she objects! But Rosalyn and her brother are in desperate need for without their jobs at the castle they will be nearly destitute. But can a marriage between a spitfire and wild man create an ideal marriage of convenience?
The Pleasure of the Rose story is breath of fresh air. This is due to its unusual setting and the unconventional main characters. At first I wasn't sure if I would like the characters but the author really takes the time to show their insecurities and feelings. As they grew and transformed, I really felt that I was getting to know and love them. Fletcher has had to deal with a lot of pain and discrimination. As such is he not very trusting and is unsure of his place. His main goal is to survive and find his lost siblings. The rest of the characters seem to underestimate Fletcher. His love and determination to save his siblings are admirable and his hidden nobility slowly shine through. Rosalyn has had a bad marriage and now a widow she doesn't want another man in her life especially a criminal. She is a bit of a feminist and protective of the women she lives with. As Rosalyn and Fletcher get to know each other a rare tenderness and heart felt romance blooms and is very sweet to read.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
The Sight by Chloe Neill
Urban Fantasy -Aug. 16th, 2016
4 stars
Chloe Neill's latest installment in the Devil's Isle series is only getting better. The Sight is the follow up to the author's first book in the Devil's Isle novels, called The Veil. In this post-apocalyptic urban fantasy, a heroine that has inherited powers must learn to control them or pay the price.
Claire is a human that has inherited powers from aliens that invaded earth and caused severe destruction. Humans were finally able to cage most of the aliens but the unintended consequences are that their magic permeated the earth. Now anyone with suspected powers from the aliens are locked away. Her sexy, bounty hunter friend, Liam is among them. However, although Liam knows Claire has powers he decides not to reveal her secret and even helps her! But he will turn her in if she loses control of them? This makes the intense attraction between Claire and Liam electric -even though they try to keep their relationship professional. Claire would dearly love to have more. But Liam is afraid that an intense relationship could trigger her powers to the point she would loose control and he would have to take her into custody and a terrible imprisonment. To add to their problems a new, radical humans only group has sprung up. They appear organized and willing to do whatever it takes to keeps humans ‘pure.’ As Claire and her friends try to protect those innocents unlucky to have powers and the target of hate their own lives are increasing danger.
This book can be read by itself but it will be less confusing having read the first book in the series. The one thing I really liked about this book is how the relationship between Claire and Liam heats up! Danger haunts Claire. Her fear of exposure and her fear of not being able to fully control her powers. Liam cares for her and wants to protect her for her own good. But while his intentions are good he is cutting Claire from his life. So Liam wants to save Claire but doesn’t realize that Claire has to make her own decisions. And she can save herself! I liked that Claire tries to take charge of her own destiny - and that includes not taking no from Liam! I also enjoyed reading Claire get formal training of her abilities. Her trainer is one hottie. One that Liam seems jealous of. Reading about Claire’s friends are a real treat. Especially the punky Moses. He hides a heart of gold and always seem to be mixed up in some mischief. The author introduces many new characters that are fascinating and explores the aliens and their societal structure. This is so much to explore in this new series. I can’t wait to read more about them and hope the author will expand on her new characters.
Magic, mayhem and a spunky heroine make for a rip roaring read!
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Dragonmark by Sherrilyn Kenyon
Paranormal Romance Aug. 2nd, 2016
3 ½ stars
Sherrilyn Kenyon’s latest paranormal romance features Dark Hunters and awe-inspiring dragon shifters!!
Illarion is a dragon who was forced into human form. Tortured when he was young he hates humans. That is until he meets the courageous Edilyn. Edilyn is an outcast among her people. She only has the bow left to her by her deceased father. Now alone, she fight for her freedom and to be a part of a great cause. She wants to be a warrior but unlike most of her people not one that works with dragons. She blames them for her shattered family. Until one day she meets a stranger and defends him. To her surprise he turns out to be a dragon in disguised in human form. A dragon named Illarion that wants her for his mate. Illarion has been wary of humans but he knows Edilyn is the only one for him. He is even willing to tolerate her difficult brother. But when her brother steals from Illarion and starts a chain of events that could result in armageddon. Illarion blames Edilyn although he loves her. And Edilyn discover that she loves her dragon. When tragedy strikes Illarion finds himself caught in a struggle to save the world. For both discover are part of a bigger more sinister plan. Can their trust in each other survive the manipulations of others?
Readers of the Dark Hunter series will be intrigued by this book. It features many familiar characters such as Savitor and Acheron. Reading about them and how they have settled into happy lives was a joy to read. However, due to this, it will be confusing to read if you are new to the series. This book seems like a build up to a grander scheme the author has planned for future books. I liked this book but it did not feel as complete as the author earlier works. The romance was rather fast and not fully developed. It was then forgotten in favor of forebodings of a terrible future that many of the main players from the past would have to solve. Next, the romance suddenly picks up again at the end. I would have preferred more time with Illarion and Edilyn’s together -getting to know each other and struggling together. Well written but compared to prior books this one did not capture my imagination to the same degree.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
A Promise of Fire by Amanda Bouchet
Paranormal Romance -Aug. 2nd, 2016
5 stars
If I could give this new series ten stars I would. This epic (and I mean EPIC) fantasy romance captured my imagination from the first page. This book was that good, I immediately re-read it! I can’t wait to read the next book in the series
Cat Fisa lives in anonymity at a traveling circus working as a soothsayer. Hidden and 'safe' she tries to keep her very real magical powers in check and undetected. For Cat finally feels that she has found a real home at the circus. Although it would be wise to leave, she loves and cherishes the friends she has met there. But trouble looms in the form of a big, stubborn and highly handsome warrior known as Griffin. Griffin is a leader of people that have no magic and he soon perceives that Cat is more than she lets on. He wants her for his own. He imperiously threatens her friends at the circus. If she does not help him and the new ruling family which he is a part of he will hurt her friends. Fearing the worst, Cat very reluctantly agrees to leave with him but her independent spirit tries to find ways to flee. After many trials, Cat discovers (to her great dismay) that she has grown attached to the merry band of soldiers and Griffin in particular! And soon finds herself saving them -against her better judgement. But Cat has a terrible secret. She is being hunted. By being forced out in the open with Griffin and his men she is exposing herself. Unfortunately, someone powerful and dangerous wants Cat dead or alive. Cat will quickly have to figure out how to save herself for only she knows the key. But is she willing to sacrifice her freedom to get it?
This spectacular novel is the best book I've read all year. Cat is young and cynical. People have always seemed to use her or hurt her. Except at the circus. She now has real friends. When Griffin and his band of warriors abduct her to work for his ruling sister she is upset and scared. Her past comes back to haunt her and it is vengeful. But strangely Cat finds that although Griffin wants to use he is also fair and understanding. Also his fellow warriors come to adopt her like a younger sister. Soon she begrudgingly starts to feel affection for them -although she would never admit it openly. Unfortunately, Cat is being pursued by a powerful and super scary menace from her past. And it would rather have her destroyed than help someone else. Cat is still inexperienced in her powers and must learn how to use them to survive. This story is really a transformation novel about Cat coming into her own and becoming a real adult with the responsibilities inherent to that. Cat must discern who are her real enemies and those she can let her guard down with and care for. I absolutely loved Cat's character. She is sly, funny and smart. It takes all of Griffin and his team wits to keep her from fleeing. Ultimately it comes down to Cat seeing that Griffin and his friends just want help but they are not ultimately willing to harm her to get it. Cat is a heroine to love and savor. She steals the show and you can't help rooting for her. Griffin is actually very patient with Cat for all that he is her abductor. I also loved the world the author has created and can't wait to read more about the mythology. This book truly swept me away and I’m still trying to catch my breathe!
Readers who are fans of fun, well-thought out stories and deep characterization will adore this adventurous, romantic and magical journey. I can’t rave enough about how much I loved, loved this book! It is a must read if you are a fan of fantasy, wise-cracking characters and some steamy romance.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
May the Best Man Win by Mira Lyn Kelly
Contemporary Romance -Aug, 2nd, 2016
3 1/2 stars
Emily Klein is young, pretty and successful. Life is going well except for one annoying man from her past -Jase Foster. Jase and Emily used to be high school friends and she thought it might be more but instead she found herself hooked up with Jase's best friend, Eddie, instead! Unfortunately, a tragedy occurred and Jase blamed her for not being there for Eddie. That would should been the end of a friendship except fate seems hell bent on throwing them together. Both have friends that are getting married and Emily and Jase keep finding themselves in the same wedding parties! Unfortunately, Jase hasn't let go of his old hostilities and his even older attraction to Emily. Meanwhile, Emily doesn't know why the friend she loved so dearly left her to hang for something she had no control over. Disillusioned and still smarting, she doesn't want anything to do with him. But Jase can't to see stop needling Emily. He simply won't be a gentlemen and just leave her alone. Soon they find themselves in bed together and that's when things get really complicated. Emily sees it as a fling that isn't going anywhere but Jase is starting to realize that he always wanted Emily and his hatred was just a wall to keep him away from his best bud’s girl. And now he doesn't want that wall there at all!
This romance has a lot of tension as Emily and Jase fight like cat and mouse. Unfortunately, Jase tends to be the cat and Emily the mouse. Jase keeps egging Emily when she makes it clear she wants to be left alone. But Jase can't help himself and sometimes I found his bad (if understandable) behavior a bit disappointment for a hero. Jase still feel some guilt over liking his best friend's girl and tends to take those unresolved feelings out on Emily. However, his behavior didn't make me like him for the first third of the story. As he seemed immature and could not stop blaming Emily. Mostly I felt bad for Emily and wondering if Jase would ever be worthy of her. Thankfully Emily is forgiving. She always liked Jase more than Eddie when they were high school, but Jase never asked her out! I will say that the chemistry between the two of them is off the charts. Their on and off again flings make for some steamy reading. And Emily is the best sort of heroine. She is kind, smart and independent. She also trying to steer clear of Jase. She was deeply hurt when he seemed to reject her and blame her when she needed him most. As they both have unresolved issues this book gets very emotional and even bittersweet. They both seem so meant for each other that it seems a shame they let misunderstandings and the years get between them.
Sometime second chances at love do come true! As a diamond in the rough hero and a amazing heroine finally find happiness together.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
July Reviews
Red Queen by Christina Henry
Fantasy
4 stars -July 12th, 2016
Incredibly imaginative and fanciful, the Red Queen is like nothing I’ve read before!
As the follow up book to Christina Henry’s book Alice, the Red Queen finds Alice and her companion Hatcher wandering outside the Old City to find Hatcher’s long lost daughter. Alice is a rare Magician and has barely escaped a mad hospital with the aid of Hatcher. Alice and Hatcher had thought that escaping out side the city would be all they needed. But instead of the lush green wonderland they discover a charred wasteland. As they try to avoid hungry goblins and giants they find themselves confronted by the powerful White Queen. The White Queen is rumored to be mad and takes young children for purposes no one knows. As Alice and Hatcher try to save the children they find themselves in danger, too.
This involving, whimsical and sometimes gory fantasy will capture your imagination. At first, Hatcher and Alice’s journey seems doomed as they trudge through the ash filled wasteland. But as they discover the world outside the Old City they find friends and terrible challenges. Although Alice appears fragile she has a core of steel. Having been manipulated by those who want to control her magic she is finally coming into her own. Throughout the book the reader can’t help but root for her and hope that she will be able understand her magic and how to use it. As she tries to navigate the treacherous world of the White Queen she must trust her instincts and hope that she can save herself, Hatcher, and the innocent lost children. The end of the story has surprises and the ending will definitely satisfy readers as Alice and Hatcher find new hope.
Alice’s journey is a fascinating and utterly captivating original read.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Cream of the Crop by Alice Clayton
Contemporary Romance- July 12th, 2016
5 stars
Natalie Grayson is a saucy, plus sized woman who isn't afraid to show her curves! As an advertising exec she is on the fast track. Ambitious and sexy as hell, (and she knows it) Natalie has Manhattan at her feet. But she has one big addiction. And it isn't sex! It's yummy, delicious and earthy cheese. When she spies the hunky Oscar Mendoza owner of the Bailey Falls Creamery at the Farmer's Market she can't seem to keep her eyes off of him or her hands off of his delicious cheese. So when her advertising team is hired to promote the tiny town of Bailey Falls it looks like Natalie might be spending a lot more time with the cheese guru. Especially when Natalie has no intention of not getting his attention! Soon Oscar and Natalie find themselves having fun in and out of bed but what happens when Oscar wants her to give up her big city lifestyle and live with him?
Naughty Natalie is so fun to read! Her high confidence in her sensuality and awareness of herself make her an refreshing and enjoyable read. I especially liked how she embraced her body even though it would not be ‘perfect’ by commercial standards. She has no shame and the first real meeting between her and Oscar had me in stitches! I cannot stress hot this playful, and sexy read is so hilarious to read. Oscar literally has no chance of not falling in love with a determined Natalie. Their romance was a sweet read and I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop - it seemed that perfect. I particularly liked how the author really shows them falling in love and getting to know each other. I felt they could be a real couple. Although there are a couple entanglements like Natalie's ex and Oscar's ex their love for each other easily triumphs over a devoted relationship.
Hilarious and sexy this playful romance will leave you wanting more of these memorable characters!
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Always My Girl by Samantha Chase
Contemporary Romance -July 5th, 2016
3 1/2 stars
This slow but sweet romance proves that the good girl can get the guy -if only he would wake up!
Anna Hannigan has always loved Quinn Shaughnessy. But he has only ever seen her as his adopted younger sister. But all that changes when Anna returns back home and playboy Quinn mistakes her for a hot stranger bikini. When he realizes his mistake suddenly he feels awkward around Anna. When did Anna develop those type of curves and why doesn't she wear something less revealing? Anna feels annoyed at Quinn over protectiveness and doesn't realize that she finally has his attention in an entirely non-platonic way. But Anna has wants to change and has finally decided to stop mooning over Quinn and move on. Can Quinn convince her to take a chance on him after ignoring her for years?
Anna is a kind, selfless heroine that has always loved Quinn. Quinn has been rather a dope. But once he realizes how much he loves her he is determined to show her. But he has a lot of groveling to do. However, the transition from friends to lovers isn't as easy as it sounds. Especially when Quinn starts to feel he might not be good enough for Anna. This quiet romance builds as you know they are meant for each other but are stuck in stereotypes of what they think they should be. Not only does Quinn change but Anna grows into herself. Anna feels she hasn't lived life and thinks she need to be more cosmopolitan but maybe she is happy just as herself. I liked how the author confronted real life issues and created a real and gentle romance to savor.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
The Transference Engine by Julia Verne St. John
Steampunk -July 5th, 2016
3 ½ stars
This original Steam Punk novel is wildly innovative but often difficult to follow.
Madame Magdala is known as the daughter of a Gypsy King. She is an independent woman bent on protecting England and her daughter, Ada Lovelace, from harm. Unfortunately, a madman with a nefarious machine may be stealing young women and using them for his own evil purposes. And the men Magdala thought she could trust may not be so trustworthy after all. As she races to discover more about the transference machine she find herself in hot water. Throw in dangerous necromancy and the soul of her vengeful ex and this wild fantasy will have your head spinning.
While I enjoyed the world the author created, I found this book took an inordinately difficult time to initially understand. It was only mid way through the novel when I actually found myself starting to enjoy the story. For much of the book I found myself slightly confused. However, I really liked many of the ideas in the story. Especially, the storyline behind the soul of Lord Byron trying to come back and that he is actually evil. This new series is a fascinating and refreshing spin that will only intrigue readers as it continues. The heroine, Magdala, is fearless and savvy. Unfortunately, she finds even with her best efforts she can’t save everyone. Magdala is a deep character that I would love to learn more about. This series has a lot of potential to grow it just needs to have a tighter storyline and more context to make it easier for the reader.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Flameout by Keri Arthur
Paranormal Romance/Urban Fantasy -July 5th, 2016
4 stars
As the third book in the Souls of Fire Novels, Keri Arthur is bringing in the heat! While it can be read as a stand alone, it would be best read in order to avoid some confusion.
Emberly is a Phoenix. She uses her fire to protect innocents. However, her old enemy, Luke has a huge grudge against her and wants her dead -permanently. As she fights to stay alive she also must contend with her ex-lover, Sam, finding the lost notes of a scientist to save innocents from a deadly virus and contend with the mysterious disappearance of local witches in the area. As she tries to keep her head above water her ex has demands of his own. Sam wants to tame her actions and work with him for the Paranormal Investigations Team. But Emberly still has strong feeling for him. Working with him seems dangerous to her heart and her independence. It seems she can’t seem to get break anywhere. Thankfully she has her sexy partner Jackson to console her and recharge her!
This paranormal romance has non-stop action. Emberly can’t seem to catch her breath before her life is threatened yet again. Her most pressing matter seems to be trying to stay alive and finding a cure for the deadly virus that threatens humanity. I liked Emberly’s tough attitude. She has a huge heart and is very self-sacrificing heroine. Unfortunately, she is also unlucky in love. The man Emberly loves blows hot, then cold and he also has a new and jealous lover. Thankfully she has Jackson to keep her warm! But there is a sadness to Emberly as she seems to fight alone, I hope in upcoming books she will find something to fill her loneliness. Perhaps with the help of the mysterious Mother that gives her power she will discover herself. In fact, I hope the author explores more about the Mother in future books, especially the Mother’s origins. This exciting series will thrill fans of Keri Arthur and Urban Fantasy. Just make sure to read them in order.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
June Reviews
Born of Legend by Sherrilyn Kenyon
Paranormal Romance -June 21st, 2016
5 stars
Born of Legend is an epic futuristic soap opera. It spans the life of the abused and vilified Prince Jullien eton Anatole, (AKA Dagger Ixur). While this could be read as a stand alone. I highly recommend not doing so, as the previous books in the League series give great insight into this sprawling novel. Unlike Sherrilyn Kenyon's previous books, the story of Dagger spans many years in depth as Dagger finds uncompromising love and is able to share it with his children. I feel that this book is perhaps the closest to the author's heart.
Dagger Ixur has had a hard life -unloved by either of his parents and tortured by his cousins and grandmother. As a result, he is actually relived to be disowned – if it also didn't come with a huge bounty on his death. On his last dregs he is prepared to die and decides to do on good dead and leave the universe with a big bang. With the last of his strength he saves a kidnapped young man. But finds himself redeemed instead. For the young man's name is Viasili. And his grateful mother is the powerful Admiral Ushara of the Gorturnum Nation. As a result of her and her son's gratitude he is nursed back to health, given food and lodging and a place on their world. Dagger begins to blossom under the people who have given him a chance and begun to trust him and even obtain citizenship. As he makes friends he finds a happiness that scares him. But his past and his unique hybrid status make him an easy target for hatred. And with a bounty worth a fortune anyone who cares for him will be hurt, too. His only option. To hurt them before they harm those he loves.
This book is a monumental journey of an extraordinary hero. I loved how it chronicles his feeling of worthlessness and then his slow climb to respect, admiration and love by those that come to know the real him. Dagger has known no love in his life until he meets Ushara and Viasili. Sherrilyn Kenyon portrays a hero that quietly helps others despite his own suffering. Dagger's nobility, serious combat skill, brains, and hunky good looks make him a hero for all the ages. But what I felt was special about this book is how Ushara and Viasili quickly see in the good in Dagger and support him. The author does not drag on the question, if he is loved but how much and can he accept it. Usually romances end with the heroine pregnant but in this case Dagger has found a ready made family and fatherhood suits him. Because this book goes over in detail Dagger's trials and tribulations I felt like I knew him better and love him more than any other of Sherrilyn Kenyon's previous heroes. The heroine Ushara is a woman of great understanding, compassion, and guts. She will do anything to protect those she loves. She is not fickle or weak. Ushara is the woman meant for Dagger. This book spans over seven hundred pages and the reader will savor each. While this is not the last in the League series I felt so blissfully satisfied with this novel I wouldn't mind if the author stopped the series after this book – it was that amazing. If you love futuristic romances and complex word building plus depth of character you will not be disappointed in this story!
This book is the story of a hero's journey into light through hardship, adversary but with deep love. An emotional roller coaster you won't want to miss!
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
A Measure of Love by Sophie Jackson
Contemporary Romance -June 21st, 2016
4 stars
Riley Moore is smart, sexy and financially stable. He owns part of a car mechanic shop that is doing well and has women coming on to him right and left. But all of this is meaningless because of the huge hole in his heart. Lexie Pierce is the only woman he has ever wanted. They grew up together as children and he always knew she was the one. But tragedy broke them apart. Now it looks like he might have a second chance. When he returns home on family issues he discovers she has moved back. And she is a sweet temptation. Riles wants her in his life again. But Lexie has secrets and insecurities from their past. Can they reconcile or will Lexi let her fears tear them apart yet again?
Despite his past Riley is the type of guy every woman will love. Loyal, sensitive, but tough, too. He adores Lexi and has been hurt by her past rejection but he still can't thinking of her. Riley has also paid for his one indiscretion and lived a life that many would envy. But he always feels something is missing. Lexi is his other half. No one knows him as well and there is no one he cares for more. But Lexi has issues that only she can overcome. It is easier to hide from Riley than work for a life with him. It is her journey to take a leap that causes most of the drama in this romance. Lexi is successful in all aspects of her life but her romantic relationships. Can she open her heart again and this time let herself be vulnerable? When another tragedy occurs Lexi will discover the true meaning of love or regret holding back for the rest of her life? This heartwarming romance is emotional but also cute. There is one character in particular that really steals the show and I hope he gets his own story one day!
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Missed Connections by Tamara Mataya
Contemporary Romance -June 7th, 2016
4 stars
Sarah is young and trying to strike it out on her own. But when she is fired from her latest job she finds herself staying with her best friend, Pete. Pete also happens to be gay and his twin brother, Jack is Sarah's nemesis. Jack is a playboy and never serious. And although Sarah can't not be affected by his sheer hotness he isn't the stable, settling down type she is looking for. So while he flirts with her she doesn't take him seriously. When Sarah gets a new job things start looking up. Unfortunately, her new job has challenges- namely penny pinching bosses. But she needs the money. Things look low until since thinks she finds a love connection with a stranger she works with. But this mystery man may surprise her and Sarah will have to open her eyes to the ideal of who she thought was perfect for her may not be what she really needs.
Sarah is young, ambitious and wants to settle down with the future love of her life. But finding such a gem seems difficult especially when she is constantly low on funds and barely paying the rent. Thank goodness she has her sassy best friend to keep her spirits up. But Sarah can't help being tempted by his brother Jack. When Sarah and Jack start a sexual fling. She is torn. She finds him undeniably attractive but she want something deeper. Jack is smart sexy and rich. Too bad he has the playboy reputation. He wants Sarah but getting the woman he yearns for isn't easy when she doesn't take him seriously. That's when desperate measure occur. It was fun to read Jack pursue Sarah because Sarah is a bit clueless that Jack is serious about her. I liked that Jack didn't give up on Sarah. But I also liked that Sarah wanted a man of substance and wasn't going to make thing easy for Jack. This story also had some spots when Sarah defends Pete and Pete is a flamboyant riot of a read!
Sweet and sexy, this book will have you entranced by Sarah's unconventional journey to love.
Reviewed by Steph from Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Dr. DOA by Simon Green
Urban Fantasy - June 7th, 2016
4 ½ stars
Dr DOA is the tenth book in the author’s Secret Histories series. It is wild, zany and totally unconventional. Fans of Jim Butcher’s Dresden files will be sure to enjoy this series. The main character Eddie Drood is a cross between James Bond and Harry Dresden. Can’t you just imagine the fun?!
Eddie and his family are powerful. They wear a suit of alien armor that protects them and allows them to help humanity. However, someone wants Eddie dead. And it is soon discovered that Eddie has been infected by an incurable poison. But Eddie being Eddie can’t accept his fate. So he and his deliciously wicked girlfriend, Molly set out to find out Dr. DOA. The assassin hired to kill him. They want to know who put a hit on Eddie and threaten Dr. DOA to find a cure. Their adventures lead them on a wild goose chase and some very interesting characters that promise treatment. But Eddie is running out of time. Can he and Molly find Dr DOA and help before he dies?!
Ths laugh out loud series always had me in stitches. Eddie is a remarkable character that never disappoints. The reader can never expect to know what might happen as the clever and highly imaginative author always whips up something completely different from the expected. In this case, nothing is known about the mysterious assassin Dr. DOA. So Molly and Eddie are
constantly searching for a cure and trying to find any clues to find the shadowy assassin. Unfortunately, the person that hired Dr. DOA is still bend on making Eddie suffer and is throwing more ammunition that Eddie and Molly have to avoid, too! Eddie’s irreverent charm, the hilarious Drood family and Molly’s often scary mission to save Eddie make this an exhilarating thrill ride that doesn’t stop! Old and new characters are brought back and if you are a new readers to this series it might be a tad bit confusing, it will not deter you in the least from turning that next page. The only issue is that the end of the book is left unresolved which I found unsatisfying. Why do this to your loyal readers? We will still read your next book without a cliffhanger. This nearly brought me to 4 stars. But because I enjoy the rest so much I kept the rating higher.
The Secret Histories series is one not to miss and Dr. DOA was a perfect ten. Funny, ingenious and wildly imaginative. This and the Nightside series are books that give immeasurable enjoyment.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Test Drive by Marie Harte
Contemporary Romance -June 7th, 2016
4 stars
In this new series, the hot and sweaty mechanics at Webster's Garage are open for ALL services! Johnny is the playboy of the bunch. But he has always has a serious crush on the bartender Lara Valley. Trouble is, she wants nothing to do with any of the customers. For Lara already has her studies, plus taking care of her demanding family. But when an amorous man goes overboard Johnny comes to her rescue. And Lara gives Johnny a chance. She has always lusted over the muscular mechanic. But to her surprise she finds a depth in Johnny that appeals to her heart, too! However, Johnny's father has never held a serious relationship outside of his mother. A mother that deserted them both. Now his father owns a classy strip joint and has a revolving door of female companionship. So Johnny's experience with long term relationships is limited indeed. And although he pursued Lara when they start getting serious he is also feeling a bit panicked. Will he let his past ruin a loving relationship?
This romance has super smokin chemistry! But it was the growing relationship between the two main characters that make it worth while. Lara loves her family but unfortunately they don't quite appreciate her. I liked that Lara learns to be more confident, assertive and finally puts herself first. Johnny also develops a more serious side and we see how vulnerable he is when he really opens his heart. Instead of being the the good time, party guy, he finds joy babysitting and spending time lounging with Lara make him happy. But secretly Johnny feels he may not be good enough for the smart and sassy Lara. For Johnny has abandonment issues. He thinks in the short term but he wants Lara for the long haul. As both characters learn to fully trust each other the reader will root for them to stay together. This romance is a fantastic start to this new series and one I can't wait for more manly mechanics!
A hot playboy and a sassy student make love and find happiness in the sexy romance.
Reviewed by Steph from Bookaholics Romance Book Club