February Reviews
Taking Fire by Cindy Gerard
Romantic Suspense -Feb 23rd, 2016
4 ½ stars
Long ago agent, Talia Levine used ex-military man, Bobby Taggart to kill a man he worked with. No matter that the man was evil. Taggart was using the dead man for information. Information now forever lost to the intelligence community. But what really hurt was the betrayal. He thought Talia was the woman for him. He believed that she cared for him.
It is six years later, and Taggart is shocked when he is later called in for an assignment at the US Embassy in Muscat. His is partner is to be Talia, now a security expert for the Embassy. Taggart is burning to see her and ask her questions. But before he can, the Embassy is bombed and he is injured. And Talia comes to his rescue. She asks him to help her and he discovers that there is a child in danger. Can he trust her? Even now he feels himself wanting her again. And that can’t be good.
This book starts out with an exciting opening. A sexy agent determined to seduce a man that she has come to admire and must betray. A tired warrior believing he has finally found a miracle. A kindred soul to share his life with in a war torn country. This story has high tension and tons of banked passion. Since these two characters have a deep and troubled history. Throw in a helpless child and someone bent on revenge and you have an absolutely thrilling, non-stop action romance. Both characters are smart and tough but Talia’s past lies haunt Taggart. When Talia turns to him for comfort, he knows it would be best to keep himself distant. Just stay focused and plan on saving an innocent child. But he finds himself softening toward her and wanting to make her happy -a rocky road that he feels will bite him back emotionally. I admired Taggart for not lashing out at Talia and listening to her explain the past even though he was the wronged party. Taggart always tries to do his best even if it is at great cost to himself. At first, I wasn’t sure if Talia was good enough for Taggart but she proves herself. And she is definitely a woman that is strong enough to match him. Cindy Gerard gives a frantic feel of desperation as the couple try to find the child. Combined with the smoldering, suppressed sexual tension between the two of them. It creates a novel that is truly mind-blowing.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Magic Shift by Ilona Andrews
Urban Fantasy -Feb 23rd, 2016
5 stars
In Magic Shifts, Ilona Andrews brings up back to magical Atlanta. The heroine Kate has just taken over the city and become its guardian from her all seeing, powerful and slightly scary, father Roland.
Now that Kate and Curren have has resigned as Consort and Beast Lord. They thought their life would be simple, maybe even boring. Unfortunately, when Kate found herself becoming the rule/guardian of Atlanta the power shift changed. And with that that power comes the ambitious that want to take it from her. As Kate finds herself battling ghouls, the Order and even the Guild. Instead of enjoying domestic bliss Curren and Kate are constantly defending the city and trying to raise a young girl to boot. However, no longer being Beast Lord has meant that Kate and Curren are not as financially stable as they once were. Adding to their stress, Kate father is building a suspicious tower nearby and she hopes he won't try to take over her beloved Atlanta again. Will they be able to juggle work, defending the city, taking care a child and not go crazy?!
This book was fantastic. Humorous, exciting and non-stop action. It was way better than expected. I literally savored every scene. The last book had was such a triumph that I wondered how the authors would top it. What would Kate and Curren do now that Curren has retired as the powerful Beast Lord? And how will Kate find the power to defend against her father and the beings that want to contest her right to rule Atlanta? Well, the authors made this book an unqualified hit by starting them on a grand and great new adventure that reminds me a bit their earlier books in the series. The authors are very clever in that they build an engrossing story with fantastic and engaging characters but still maddeningly leave questions and clues that will guarantee to make the readers want to know more. Kate and Curren are still the star power couple and I love how they sweep up the bad guys. I also loved how they find their own, new community. Now that they are unable to return to the Keep I was worried they would be isolated and alone. Instead they are still surrounded by true friends that support them. I loved reading about their friends and sort of wished more was mentioned about Dali and Jim (Hint- book please?!). I was also exhilarating reading Kate push her new found powers and Curren takes some really kick a## control. Curren is not fazed in the least by resigning as Beast Lord in fact it almost seems to make him more free and deadly now that he is not held by the pack and ruling them. I can't wait to read more. What mischief and mayhem will they both get themselves into? Since they are now 'free' agents they are sort of making up their own rules and is it fun to read. I was also surprised by the small cameos with Kate's father and others will be intrigued by their new relationship. This series just gets better.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Bitter Bite by Jennifer Estep
Urban Fantasy -Feb. 23rd, 2016
4 ½ stars
Bitter Bite is the seventeenth novel in Jennifer Estep's Elemental Assassin's series. This series just keep getting better as evil enemies and deeper character development bring this series new life.
Gin is now the mob boss, something she hadn't anticipated. But with power there are those who want to steal it from her or undermine her. In this book Gin is bombarded on all sides. To make matters worse her best friend, Finn has been targeted. Finn's long-lost mother Deirde Shaw has returned. However, Gin suspects Deirde is up to no good. Deide is greedy and selfish. And Gin believes that Deirde will hurt and use Finn. For Finn had connections that Deirde seem overly interested in. But Finn is enamored with the arrival of the mother he never knew and refuses to believe Gin. Can Gin protect him, keep their friendship and avert danger to her beloved city before it is too late?
In Bitter Bite we learn more secrets about Gin's childhood best friend Finn. Finn has always been the charming devil-may-care rogue that readers have loved. He is outrageously funny, smart and such a ladies man. In this story, we see a more serious and vulnerable side. Finn is also the son of the man that taught Gin all she knows about being an assassin. Trouble brews when Finn's long lost mother returns and Finn. Finn sees only what he wants a loving mother that adores him. But Gin sees a conniving woman. For the first time Finn and Gin are at cross purposes. Gin is torn. She wants her adopted brother to be happy but she feels he will be betrayed. I liked this story because it goes over more of Gin's past and delves into Finn's father, too. The readers also see a new insecurity in Finn. The plot is clever as Deirde is cunning and ruthless. Trying to uncover her motives prove difficult. The plots has many surprises that keep it exciting. I especially liked how the gang got together to protect Finn!
This urban fantasy is a fast, exciting read with great elemental magic and the camaraderie that makes this series so fun and addictive.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Seal Wolf in Too Deep by Terry Spear
Paranormal Romance -Feb 2nd, 2016
4 stars
A feisty woman and a SEAL that hold secrets makes for an exciting read.
When Allan Rappaport's diving partner is injured he is assigned to work the very competent and pretty Debbie Renaud. Although he misses the rapport of working with his old partner and fellow wolf shifter, Debbie is a fantastic partner. He likes her more than he should. But Debbie is human. And Allan knows it is his duty as a shifter to mate with another shifter and creates more of his kind. However, there is something so wonderful about Debbie that he can't seem resist her. When there might be a werewolf killer at large Allan must reveal his secrets to Debbie. She is surprisingly accepting. Which only makes it harder to stay away....
Terry Spear has really become the master of suspense, hot alpha shifters with a big heart and non-stop action. Allan is tough, strong and really kind. He knows it is his obligation
to find another wolf mate but the only woman he seems attracted to is the forbidden human, Debbie. Debbie can’t understand why Allan won’t take their work partnership up a notch and ask her out on a date. They work in different departments so there shouldn’t be a conflict. But every time she thinks something big is going to happen he cops out! Sexually frustrated, she tries going out with someone else but she can’t seem to get over Allan. Poor Allan can’t seem to get it right. He doesn’t want to hurt Debbie but he really hates seeing her with another man. Allan must make a decision to protect his pack’s secrets or take a chance on love. When Allan gets some help from his friends, his worries seem to be over. But then Debbie seems to no longer want him! Add in the suspense of a suspected werewolf killer and this book is a guaranteed page-turner.
A hot werewolf bound by duty must deny his love for a sassy human in this thrilling new romantic suspense.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Will’s True Wish by Grace Burrowes
Historical Romance -Feb 2nd. 2016
4 stars
Will Dorning is the second son of an earl. As not quite the heir he lives in a limbo and does not feel free to make a life of his own. Instead he often finds himself trying to guide his older brother and taking care of his younger brother’s scrapes. With little money and a sensible nature he sees his life practically. His only real love are his dogs and a secret longing for the sweet and shy Lady Susannah Haddonfield. However, Susannah does not seem to return his regard and she doesn’t care for smelly dogs in the least. However, happily splintered Susannah does want her younger sister, Lady Della to find a good match. Unfortunately, her current beau, Lord Effington loves dogs. To help her sister’s chances she asks Will to teach her about dogs. And Susannah finds, to her shock that she begins to really care for the mutts! But a dark mystery lurks, as dogs are being stolen and possibly abused. Susannah and Will must find the culprit and maybe find love on the way, too!
This poignant romance has the sure touch of a master. All of Grace Burrowes’s heroes are men that women could love in real life. Will is no exception. Although Will is not fancy or rich he has a deep heart and understanding of people. He sees the hidden gem in Susannah even before she does. He is the sort of gentle lover that woman would want to be their first and their last. I liked how he has a quiet self-confidence and Susannah leans on him until she becomes more sure of herself as a person. Susannah is smart but unconventional. Which means she was not embraced by society. She has no wish to be part of it but she will sacrifice her peace of mind for her sister. I enjoyed reading Susannah slowly fall in love with the honorable and compassionate Will. Fans of Grace Burrowes will find Will’s True Wish a book they will not regret purchasing.
This romance is a perfect winter read -one to savor and enjoy.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
A Gentleman's Game by Theresa Romain
Historical Romance -Feb 2nd, 2016
4 stars
Nathaniel Chandler is charming and sharp. So when he meets his father's new secretary, Rosalind Agate, something about her catches his attention. And he always listens to his instincts. Although she does seem meek and biddable, if competent. There is something off, if not down right suspicious about her behavior. But his clueless father seems unaware. When strange happenings occur that may cost his beleaguered family money Nathaniel decides to investigate. Enter the mysterious Rosalind. She is no green miss and she actually is spying on his father! For Nathaniel's father is not her real employer. Instead she owes her life to a saintly woman named Aunt Annie. But to pay off this debt, Rosalind has been spying for Aunt Annie. While Rosalind has never been happy spying, she has decided this will be her last job. For her underhanded work drags upon her. She likes Nathaniel's father and is beginning to like Nathaniel even more. But when her sham is threatened to be exposed can she rely on Nathaniel when she was the one that lied to him in the first place?
This book has so many surprises and plot twists. Rosalind is a very original heroine. She is a girl that is grateful to her benefactor but slowly comes to realize that her mentor may not be all that she seems. Rosalind starts out rather naive. Still believing that the woman that saved her is a angel. But she is really being used as a pawn. Although she and Nathaniel start out as opponents, they find themselves kindred spirits. Each seem saddled with responsibilities. But together they seem to have formed a playful relationship. They grow to admire each other. Rosalind blooms under Nathaniel's attention. But she is the one that takes charge of her life. This was an empowering and sweet romance. I liked how both characters understood each other and supported each other. It was immensely satisfying to read all the suffering characters finally find their happiness and the villain get their just desserts.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Wicked, Sexy Liar by Christina Lauren
Contemporary Romance -Feb 2nd, 2016
4 1/2 stars
London Hughes has freshly graduated in graphics and web design from the University of California at San Diego. But to her parents are dismayed at the life she has chosen. For London decides to waste her time to surfing the waves by day and work as a barista by night. However, need the time to regroup. She needs to build her portfolio and nurse her recently broken heart. Trying to stay away from drama she doesn't expect the very charming player, Luke Sutter to proposition her. Especially since she has repeatedly if playfully turned him down. However, there is something indescribably sexy about the enigmatic Luke and London finds her lonely heart opening up to him. But his past of endless flings and women propositioning him has London leery of committing more. She feels he is like her cheating ex, she can't trust him. So, instead they decide to become friends but their attraction to each other can't be denied. Can London open her heart to Luke and take the chance on love again? Or will she let go of a wonderful guy just beginning to learn about himself.
This sweet, sparkling romance sizzles from the first chapter. London is a tough, free spirit that just wants to recover from a cheating ex and enjoy life again. If only she didn't find the man-whore Luke Sutter so appealing. Didn't she learn her lesson from her ex.? But Luke is funny, irreverent and never, ever bores her with his company. Plus he is soo easy on the eyes. Ever since Luke broke up with his first girlfriend he has replaced her with a sting of unmemorable one-night stands. But meeting the challenging London changes that all. She refuses to fall for his practiced charms. And when she finally does he notices he has tender feelings towards her -not the awful emptiness that makes him feel disconnected after sex. Determined to get London in his life even if they are just friends they both find themselves opening their hearts. I loved how the authors created a real relationship between the two characters. This story was touching. They both developed and grew from their failed relationships and recognized something better and more lasting. These two wounded hearts found a love, shelter and a rare honesty that made them fun yet poignant couple.
This witty romance with warm the hearts of readers as two wounded hearts find love again.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
How to Wrangle a Cowboy by Joanne Kennedy
Western Romance -Feb 2nd, 2016
4 stars
Lindsey Ward had an idealistic life growing up on her grandfather's ranch. But when she brought back her fiancee to meet her family she was forced to make a brutal choice. Her future family or her old one. She chooses a life with her future husband over her loving grandparents. Now divorced and up to her ears in debt Lindsey discovers that her grandfather has died and her grandmother suffers from dementia. She comes back intending to her old home to settle her affairs after the funeral and leave. But she doesn't count on being named the sold heir to her grandfather's ranch. Now she is faced with the decision to sell the ranch to pay her debts or stay. To make troubles worse the ranch foreman, Shane Lockhart dislikes her intensely. Although he is attracted to her he feels she is a spoiled brat that broke her grandfather's heart. Plus he resents his attraction to Lindsey. Add in Shane’s bitterness due to a failed relationship with a selfish woman that had kept his son from him. And Lindsey and Shane’s working relationship is very strained. Now Shane discovers that his ex wants him to take care of their son and leaves. Unsure of what their futures hold both Lindsey and Shane find surprising support and comfort in each other. But will old hurts and misunderstanding be resolved? Especially when someone wants Lindsey's ranch and isn't above using some underhanded cheating to get it....
This western is surprisingly long, it is four-hundred and seventy five pages long. The author puts those pages to good use as she develops her complicated characters. The main characters are both troubled with a lot of baggage -like real people. They are not anywhere near perfect and make plenty of mistakes. But also find forgiveness. In the beginning of the story both main characters face failed relationships that have shaken their self-confidence. I felt as they grew to know each other and lean on each other they were finally on road to getting it right. I also liked the subplot about Shane's adorable son. He has been deserted by his mother and is looking for stability and a hero in his father. It is touching to read the little tike finally find a home. The author dares to give her characters flaws and the ups and down in their lives makes it feel like a real romance with two people with good intentions, who just needed to find the love of the right person. Shane and Lindsey find their own inner strength and I enjoyed being there through their trials.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholilcs Romance Book Club
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Winter Reviews 2016
January Reviews
Into the Fury by Kat Martin
Contemporary Romance -Jan, 26th, 2016
4 stars
Into the Fury is part of the author’s popular BOSS Inc. series. It can easily be read as a stand alone but you will definitely want to read about more of characters once you start!
Ethan Brodie has been burned bad by his ex. A selfish beauty that he regrets falling for. Calling himself a fool, he vows not to fall in love again. But against his will he finds himself attracted to yet another gorgeous woman. On his current job as security detail, he has been assigned to guard some of the most beautiful women in the world as they model for a popular La Belle Lingerie company. But Ethan can't seem to keep his distance from the sexy blonde model named Valentine. To make matters worse, Val also happens to be a personal friend of his sister-in-law and she has asked him to pay extra attention to Valentine. When one of their models is murdered tensions run high. And Valentine seems to be targeted as the next victim. As Ethan strives to protect her he finds unwanted feeling for the strong yet vulnerable Val. She is isn't anything like his spoiled ex. However, any chance of love may be forgone if he can't find the killer.
This book flames with hot passion as Ethan tries to bank his attraction to the lovely Val. I couldn’t wait to read Ethan’s story. The poor guy has really suffered in love. Since Ethan’s past with his ex doesn’t exactly make him want to have another relationship I was curious to read who his love interest would be. Val is a sweet, hard-working woman who doesn't fit the prima donna role of most models. She is a down to earth woman studying to become a veterinarian. She doesn't have time for distractions like the oh-so tempting Ethan. As they both try to ignore their attraction for each other they find they can't deny it! Reading them together was hot. Since there is no fraternizing between security and the models the sexual tension between them is drawn out. Ethan is honest, noble and naively choose a partner that betrayed him. Unwilling to love again he is displeased and surprised by the intensity of his attraction to Val. Ethan is my favorite Brodie simply because the author seems to show different facets of his life. I especially enjoyed reading his love for his daughter and seeing his softer side. When Ethan and Val finally surrender to their attraction it was worth the wait! There is also a constant underlying tension as Ethan tries to protect Val and the other models which made the story seem to fly by quickly.
A sexy ex-cop and a gorgeous model find love amid danger in this fantastic romantic suspense.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Enraptured by Candace Camp
Historical Romance -Jan. 19th, 2016
4 stars
Enraptured is the third in the Secrets of the Loch trilogy by Candace Camp. It reveals secrets readers of the past two books in the series will delight to discover! This book can be read as a stand alone but because characters and the plot continue from the previous books it would be a more enriching having read the prior books first.
In this book, an intrepid lady and a feisty Scottish lad are on the hunt for a mythical treasure. But it appears someone dangerous is also searching, too!
Lady Violet is on a mission to secure the consent of the Earl of Mardoun to study the ruins on his estate before anyone else. The earl invited her uncle to explore the ruins. And as her uncle's protegee, she wants to discover it secrets. But the problem is her uncle has just died and if the earl discovers his death she may loose her claim to study the ruins forever. In her haste to reach the site, Violet meet the handsome Scotsman, Coll. Coll, it seems is in charge of the estate until the earl returns. Soon Violet is sharing heated words and a passionate kiss with Coll. A complication she doesn't need, especially since it seems a suspicious intruder on the estate is intent on harm. As Coll and Violet seek to uncover the intruder and find a hidden treasure rumored on the estate they find themselves in deep danger. Will they be able to find the treasure and love together?
This was an engaging story. At first Lady Violet and Coll seems miles apart. But I liked how the author shows that they both have dreams that they share with each other. They are more similar that they appear. Violet feels restricted in her ambitions by her sex and Coll is hampered by illegitimacy. I liked that Violet was very independent and that her spirit matches Coll. Since both feel shackled by society’s restrictions, they find understanding and support in each other. As they worked out their initial differences their relationship felt like a real couple. I especially liked that Coll was man enough to give Violet what she wants even if it isn't what he desires. In addition, to the romance I also liked this book because it was exciting to read the main characters search for the mystical treasure. The mystery behind the treasure and the surprises they find make this book an engrossing read.
This surprisingly deep romance has mystery, mayhem and two strong-willed main characters.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Appealed by Emma Chase
Contemporary Romance -Jan 19th, 2016
5 stars
Appealed is altogether too appealing to resist! Do not miss the book. As the third book in the author's Legal Briefs series it is my all time favorite! A rakish playboy and a seductive temptress make this red hot romance absolutely fun and erotic.
Brent Mason is rich, handsome and doesn't realize he is stuck in a rut. As a successful criminal lawyer he finds purpose but enjoys his endless string of flings. No woman has really touched him. That is until he is duty bound to arrive at his parents party. There he sees a stunning woman. A woman that used to be his childhood best friend. And one that abandoned him. Her name is Kennedy Randolph. And while Kennedy might find Brent sexy she appears to not want any part of him. But Brent has different ideas. He never forgot the girl he grew up and always wondered about her. To discover she has all grown up -a stunning beauty with brains. And a woman who won't hold back from telling her him her mind. She is simply irresistible. However, Kennedy has her own agenda, Brent may have been her childhood crush but he never defended her and stood by while she was humiliated. Can the woman she has become forgive him and open her heart a man known for his ruthlessness?
This is an absolutely fabulous read. Brent is an outrageous character. He knows he is the cat's meow and isn't afraid to use that to his advantage in the courtroom or in the bedroom! Brent is the most refreshing and sexy hero I've read all year. I liked his confidence and drive. And even when he is being 'bad,' he is so charming you can't help enjoying his naughtiness. But Brent gets a big wake-up call when he meets his old pal, Kennedy. Kennedy is a woman that he truly cares for. Unlike the low maintenance flings in his past. She makes him prove that he can think of someone besides himself. I enjoyed reading how he finally realizes that he must respect Kennedy's decisions even if he doesn't agree with them. Kennedy is a very sympathetic character that has always loved Brent but been badly burned by him. I enjoyed how the often clueless Brent had to step back and re-evaluate his actions and make changes in his life. Brent really grows in this story and the journey is super fun to read.
Brent is a charming modern day rogue that woman will be guaranteed to fall in love with.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Heir to a Duke by Jane Ashford
Historical Romance- Jan 5th, 2015
5 stars
Heir to A Duke is the first in author's, the Duke's Sons series. This marvelous romance book will sweep you away to Regency England and keep you there. In this book, an overly responsible heir to a Duke and a cowed young lady find themselves and lasting love.
Nathaniel Gresham loves his family and enjoys taking care of them. As the eldest child of a Duke he feels it is his duty to help his more lighthearted and mischievous brothers out of endless scrapes. While they have fun he knows he must be the staid and responsible one. Now he has decided it is finally his duty to marry and produced an heir. He has picked the demure and oh-so proper Lady Violet Devere as his bride. But as their wedding day approaches Nathaniel is soon discovering that Violet is no shrinking violet! But a woman who wants to be free of her tyrannical grandmother. Soon Violet is becoming decidedly independent and having fun. And she wants him to join in with her! Nathaniel is finding this new side of Violet intoxicating. But Violet's mother holds secrets. Scandalous secrets that may shed light on Violet's unknown past and bring shame to the Gresham name. Can they love and trust each other enough to weather through the storm?
This delightful romance is for the true romantic. Nathaniel is a man women dream of -handsome, kind and steady. But most of all a shoulder to lean on and a source of great integrity. And Violet, who has been brought up in a household of uncertainly and disapproval glows under his gentle care. Violet finally become the woman she has always wanted -finally getting away from her overbearing grandmother! She becomes a beauty on the inside and out. But the trouble is that she challenges the staid Nathaniel to think of himself and enjoy life with her instead of dealing merely with his responsibilities. It was a real joy to read Violet and Nathaniel transform together. As the both develop and grow so does their friendship and love. I adored reading them learn about themselves and rely on each other. I was completely invested in the two characters because they both stole my heart. I loved how the author takes the time to develop them and does not use tricks to keep them apart or have 'misunderstandings' to further the plot. This was a sweet, romantic novel focused on the slowly building love between to very worthy and loveable main characters.
This gentle romance is a keeper.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
The Good, Bad and the Vampire by Sara Humphreys
Paranormal Romance -Jan 5th, 2016
4 stars
Trixie is vampire with a big chip on her shoulders. She loves being independent, thank you very much. So her distracting and highly irritating attraction to good old boy Dakota Shelton is making her crazy. Dakota is an annoyingly laid back vampire cowboy. And so not her type! But Dakota wants Trixie and he ain't no quitter. Soon Trixie discovers that they are bloodmates an unfortunate consequence is that Dakota can see into her dreams and thoughts. And Trixie has a secret, she wasn't always so tough and her past shames her. Not something she would willingly share. But trouble brews as Trixie and Dakota are forced to work together to find out the mystery behind Dakota dead maker and a suspicious gargoyle that may be harming someone very dear to Trixie's heart.
This book has it all. Romance, suspense and some secrets from each of the main characters' past that give some surprising plot twists. Trixie had a hard life as a human and she wants it all behind her except for one thing. Someone she guard zealously. When that person becomes endangered Trixie will do anything to protect her. Add in a sexy cowboy that keeps putting his nose in her business and you have one funny and exciting romance! Dakota is drawn to the mysterious Trixie and wants to know everything about her. But when he discovers a vampire from his past may not be all he appeared Dakota must lead with his heart. Trixie is all spice and vinegar and I loved reading how Dakota was able get under her skin and find her softer side. It was fun to read them work together and bicker.
A sexy cowboy and spitfire vampire make this paranormal romance an irresistible romp.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club