Friday, January 31, 2014

The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion

The Rosie Project
Grade: A
Hotness Level: Ember
Kink Level: No Kink
Genre: Contemporary, Nerdmance
Published: 10/1/13
Reviewed by Anne
292 pages
 
So, I saw this book had some good buzz last fall as a funny romance told from a Sheldon-like character's POV.  I put it on my To Read List and finally got around to it over Christmas Break.  I devoured this book!  It gave me a serious case of Book Cranky as I had to fit it in around my kids and family obligations!
 
It's told from the first person point of view of Don.  Don is someone I'd guess is on the autism spectrum.  He is certainly very literal minded and has a hard time understanding people.  He is very self aware, though, and his narration is unintentionally funny.  Actually, it's unintentionally hysterical!  He knows he would like to have a wife, because he has observed in others a happiness level he associates with a long term partner.  After deciding that being set up with people and online dating are very unefficient ways to meet a potential mate, he begins The Wife Project.
 
He runs The Wife Project with the help of his married friends, Gene and Claudia.  Their relationship is a secondary story line.  In the course of The Wife Project, Don meets Rosie, who he immediately recognizes as unsuitable for wife material.  However, he's intrigued at her current quest to find her biological father.  He finds this situation interesting enough to start The Rosie Project, his effort at helping Rosie in her quest.  
 
This story was touching and sad at points, but it's so funny throughout that it didn't bring me down.  Along with Don and Rosie's quest, we hear about Don's relationship with his elderly neighbor, Daphne, who helped inspire Don to undertake The Wife Project.  This story reminded, in emotional tone, to the beginning of the movie, Up.  Don and Daphne's story is very simply told, but so much lays between the lines.  It's an excellent way to get insight into Don's character and it left me rooting for him!
 
I don't really know if it's an accurate portrayal of someone with Asperbergers or autism.  If it is not, a reader with familiarity to this issue might not enjoy the story.  That issue aside, I really enjoyed the book and I highly recommend it!
 
Note: I'm listing this one under Best of 2013 and Best of 2014, because I read it late in December, after I made my Best of 2013 list.

Thursday, January 30, 2014

Throwback Thursday-Vengeance in Death by J.D. Robb

Vengeance in Death (In Death, #6)
Grade-B
Hotness Level-Blaze
Kink Level-No Kink
Series-In Death #6
Genre-Romantic Suspense, Futuristic
Reviewed by Kay

Eve and Roark were at it again. They were tracking a sadistic killer that had ties to Roark in his youth. The bad guy was a total whack job complete with a God complex. Or maybe he thought he was a messenger of God. Either way, he was a major creeper. Eve had her hands full skirting the lines of legality in this one. She had to trust McNabb who was covering for Feeney when he was on vacation. Trying herself to cover Somerset to protect Roark. Uncovering more of Roark's checkered past and attempts on her life.

I really enjoyed this story because it was fast paced and they even went to Ireland. I enjoyed all the accents when they were in Roark's homeland. I like that maybe in the future there will be some sort of a truce between Eve and Somerset.

 As usual, I enjoyed the on going love story of Eve and Roark, Peabody and the rest of the gang. Still a good series and I will continue on after a short break.

Wednesday, January 29, 2014

The Bartered Bride by Reece Butler

The Bartered Bride (Climax, Montana #3)
Grade-B
Hotness Level-Inferno
Kink Level-Moderate Kink
Series-Climax, Montana #3
Genre-Contemporary/Menage
Reviewed by Kate
 
Jane is trying to escape an abusive father and an arranged marriaged to an even more vile man. She's stuck at a bar with no way of leaving when Travis and Riley show up. Travis and Riley seem like the only ones at the bar who might not take advantage of her, so she stows away in their truck. While the men are helping Jane get away, can they also help her discover herself?
 
I'm a sucker for cavemen heroes. The kind that can say "You're going to do what I say because I know what's best for you." The kind that are protective and dominant without being abusive. The kind that, quite honestly, can come across as being a huge ass. And Reece Butler does a very good job writing those cavemen heroes I adore.
 
As a heroine, Jane struggles to be independent when she never has had a chance to stand on her own. She's had a lot of terrible things happen in her past and we get to watch as Travis and Riley support her on her journey. We get to see a lot of character growth for Jane.
 
The only complaint that I had with this book was that there was a section in the middle that started to go down a hero-taking-the-place-of-daddy path and a trying-to-fix-the-heroine path. Those are themes that I don't typically enjoy reading, but seemed to be rather short lived in this book. I was quickly able to loose myself in the story after getting past that section.
 
This book met all the preferences I have in erotic menage books. Strong heroes and heroines, character growth, a plot that is fast paced, and scenes steamy enough to fog your glasses. If you enjoy erotic menage with a bit of cowboy, I suggest you give this one a try.
 
An additional note: While this one is considered to be the third book in her Climax, Montana series, it can definitely be read by itself. The first 2 books in this series take place back in the 80s and are worth checking out. If you like historical menage, I'd recommend Reece Butler's earlier Bride Train series.
 
I'm caught up on all of Reece Butler's books now. Do you have recommendations for any other erotic menage series to try?

Tuesday, January 28, 2014

Hot Zone by Anne Marsh

Hot Zone (The Hotshots, #2)
Grade-C
Hotness Level-Inferno
Kink Level-No Kink
Series-The Hotshots #2
Genre-Contemporary
Reviewed by Kay
102 pages

Dade is a Hotshot and helps out the Smoke Jumpers at a fire camp. This camp is very bust during fire season and this requires cooking and other staff to be available. Sarah Jo is a cook at the fire camp. One day while working, the other cooks dare her to kiss the first fire guy that comes up in line. Sarah Jo wants to fit in, so she does it.

Dade and Sarah Jo both know that the kiss they shared wasn't enough. As these two get closer, a secret from Sarah Jo's past comes to the surface. She doesn't want anyone to know because she wants to handle it on her own but Dade has other plans.

This was an okay story. A little too cut and dried for me. A tiny bit of suspense and a lot of sex. Hot sex, so that part was good. Will I go on with the series? I don't know.

Monday, January 27, 2014

Consumed by Emily Snow



                      
Consumed (Devoured, #2)
       
Grade-B+
Hotness Level-Inferno
Kink Level-No Kink
Series-Devoured #2
Genre-Contemporary
Reviewed by Kay
176 pages
 
Lucas is a rock star and he and Sienna have a troubled past. He threw her out of his house when she wouldn't submit and then he ended up buying her Grandma's house that was in foreclosure. That led to Sienna signing a contract to work for him for an appointed amount of time and then he'd sign the house over to her. She did this but then he freaked out about his ex-wife and dismissed her.

Now, he's back and begs for Sienna to take him back bascially. She's gunshy but she is in love with him. Head over heels in love. His ex is still causing trouble, malicious trouble but Sienna keeps it from Lucas because he's on tour and she doesn't want him disturbed. There were a lot of obstacles for this couple to overcome: the band, the tour, Cilla, Tyler and Sam (the ex).

I really liked this book even with the wait. I hope she writes about the rest of the band. I know she's written about Kylie and Wyatt. When I first read this series early last year, it just spoke to me. I loved everything about it. The chemsitry, hot sex scenes and believable emotions. I fell in love with Lucas Wolfe for two reasons:

1.) He played Britney Spears for her on his guitar. He's a heavy metal guy but Sienna likes Britney.

2.) He says this to her- "I could have the shittiest day and then come within a hundred feet of you, and the only thing that matters is you."

If you want something sweet and hot, read it.

Sunday, January 26, 2014

Asking For Trouble by Tessa Bailey

Asking for Trouble (Line of Duty, #4)
Grade-B
Hotness Level-Inferno
Kink Level-No Kink
Series-Line of Duty #4
Genre-Contemporary
Reviewed by Kay
250 pages
Brent Mason is an explosives expert with the police department. He's crude, rude and adorable. Hayden Winstead is a wealthy, beautiful woman with a whole lot of sass. These two have been circling each other since their best friends fell in love not too long ago. They have snipey comments and insults to hurl at each other all the time.

One night they banter back and forth, neither willing to back down. When the bantering goes to far, they have an encounter. This encounter has them seeing one another in a different light and it changes everything.

I so enjoyed this book. I always enjoy her foul mouthed heroes. I really enjoy them. I enjoyed her first book a lot. Then the next two stories were just okay for me. This one redeemed the series for me. Scorching hot sex packed with emotion, this was a homerun. The following quotes were my favorites:

"Be warned, though. If you take away the use of my hands, I'll only make up for it with my mouth."-Brent

"You think you know what I need? Enlighten me."-Hayden
"You need a good tongue-fucking."-Brent

"When I take them off, you're not going to...I mean..."-Hayden
"What? Throw you down on the floor and see if you fuck as hot as you kiss?"-Brent

Brent talking about Hayden bitching about his shoulders-"You didn't mind them last night when you were kneeling on them."

I just love her heroes' quotes!


Saturday, January 25, 2014

Lick by Kylie Scott

Lick (Stage Dive, #1)    
Grade-B+
Hotness Level-Inferno
Kink Level-No Kink
Series-Stage Dive #1
Genre-Contemporary
Reviewed by Kay
286 pages

This was probably closer to a 4.5 star rating for me. I really enjoyed this book and its characters. I'm kind of a sucker for a rock star romance and this one fit the bill. Not in an over the top way but what felt natural.

Evelyn wakes up in Las Vegas hungover and married to a tattooed, sexy man. She has no real memories of the night before. She fights vomitting and panic at the mere sight of him. She vows no more alcohol and says their marriage was a mistake. David, her husband slams the door as he leaves. The press shows up at the airport and the secret wedding is now known by all. She's married to the guittarist of Stage Dive.

David sees the media's attention focused on Evelyn and he sends for her stating that she needs to sign the divorce papers any way. She walks into a party already in session, sees her husband cozied up to a busty blonde, and is ushered away as if she's a shameful secret. She then sees her husband go off into the poolhouse with the blonde. She meets with his lawyers the next day and oh boy.

This really was a well done book. More emotional than I thought it would be. Funny at times and frustrating at others. My reason for this not being a five star read is that David took too long getting to her after he hurt her so badly. It was said it was all innocent but he allowed himself to be in bad positions with other women and it made me want to punch him in the throat. I wish I could say more about the book but it's a great journey for these two and you should read it yourselves. I wish the sex would've been more descriptive but it was still steamy. I'm definately reading more in this series.

Friday, January 24, 2014

Ripped by Sarah Morgan


Ripped (Miller Sisters, #1)
Grade-C
Hotness Level-Blaze
Kink Level-No Kink
Series-Miller Sisters #1
Genre-Contemporary
Reviewed by Kay
95 pages

This was a novella about two people who at first seemed polar opposites. This story was based in England, which honestly isn't my favorite thing in contemporary literature, but it was okay. The hero is of Italian descent and very swoon worthy. The heroine is described where I think she was full figured and I love to read about a real sized woman.

It starts at the heroine's friends' wedding to the heroine's ex. She was asked to be a bridesmaid basically to rub it in her face she wasn't marrying the groom. I know, not a real friend. To add insult to injury she was put in a dress that was WAY too small for her figure but she did because of pride and to let them know she wasn't broken by their marriage. It was also said that the groom was a big time cheater, even sleeping with some of the other bridesmaids. Ewww! Well, the best man, the hero of the story comes to the aid of our heroine when her dress literally splits down both sides, exposing her upper assets to the crowd of onlookers. Yes, at church.
After that, they have a heat charged moment in a dressing room, which is interrupted.

This wasn't a bad book but I never engaged with the characters. I didn't dislike them but I didn't love them either. There really wasn't a lot of story, maybe due to the length, but I just felt kind of "Meh".
There was a lot of steamy sex scenes but those fell short for me too. I don't know but this one just didn't gel for me and I won't be reading more in this series.

Thursday, January 23, 2014

Obsession by Jennifer Lyon

Obsession (The Plus One Chronicles, #3)
Grade-B
Hotness Level-Inferno
Kink Level-No Kink
Series-The Plus One Chronicles #3
Genre-Contemporary/Romantic Suspense
171 pages

This is the conclusion to the Plus-One Chronicles.

At the end of the last book, Sloane had just confessed his secret to Kat, knowing he would likely lose her. But she had made him promise earlier to never lie to her, so he kept this promise. Kat being Kat, chose to love him anyway but hoped he'd change his mind on the revenge he had planned for Lee Foster.

We got to find out if David was involved and if so, how. That closure went well, I thought. Kellen and Diego moved into their own house but were still around for Kat. Kat made a decision regarding the futures of her and Sugar Dancer. Kat and Sloane's relationship with Drake was beautiful and by the end of the book I was sobbing.

I really liked this series. Good characters and plot. Plus hot sex, what more could you want? Everything tied up nicely. Slaone realized he wasn't his mother's son, he got his closure for Sara, accepted Drake as the father of his heart and that Kat was his only one not a plus-one. I will definately read more by Jennifer Lyon.

Wednesday, January 22, 2014

Possession by Jennifer Lyon

Possession (The Plus One Chronicles, #2)
Grade-C
Hotness Level-Inferno
Kink Level-No Kink
Series-The Plus-One Chronicles
Genre-Contemporary
Reviewed by Kay
148 pages
This is a continuation of Sloane Michaels and Kat Thayne's story. She's a baker and he's a self made wealthy man. He's also a former MMA champion. He agrees to help Kat train in self defense because of her past. A past she can't fully remember.

In this book, she and Sloane continue to explore their plus-one relationship. They are both falling for each other and realizing that that they're more than their plus-one. Sloan tries to do things for her monetarily and she's having none of that. As her memories start to clear she realizes that her mugging wasn't truly a mugging but not enough to clearly say what happened. This book ends with her finding out about a secret Sloan is keeping. A secret that could destroy their relationship.

Honestly, this book was a little disappointing to me. Not a lot went on and it was at times, boring. I'll finish the series because I want to know how it all shakes out.

Tuesday, January 21, 2014

Oil and Leather by Nikki Pink

Oil and Leather (Sons of Mayhem, #1)
Grade-C
Hotness Level-Inferno
Kink Level-No Kink
Series-Sons of Mayhem #1
Genre-Contemporary
Reviewed by Kay
32 pages
Nicole is a straight laced and straight A college student. She hears this loud noise when she's waiting for her roommate, Lucy to come home. Lucy is a bit of a free spirit and wild as they come. Lucy has spent the evening with a group of bikers and tells Nicole all about it. Nicole has a boyfriend that might or might not be gay and dreams of having a man that would make her feel attractive and wanted. She suggests that maybe she'll go with Lucy the next time she hangs out with the bikers.

After the break up with her boyfriend, who I'm sure is gay, she agrees to go out with Lucy. Nicole is very excited but nervous, especially after Lucy has slutted up their outfits for the night. She is about to back out when she hears the roar of motorcycles. She then sees Jase, the VP, not that she knows what VP means in biker speak. He's a very hot man. She gets on the back of his bike and off they go.

This is a very short prelude to this series. I enjoyed it and will probably read on depending on the price of the other books. I'm on a bit of a biker bing lately and I'm devouring books in that genre. Maybe it's because Sons of Anarchy is over for the season but whatever the reason, I'm having a blast.

Monday, January 20, 2014

Kights' Sinner by Bella Jewell


Knights' Sinner (The MC Sinners, #3)
Grade-B
Hotness Level-Inferno
Kink Level-Mild Kink
Series-The MC Sinners #3
Genre-Contemporary
Reviewed by Kay
291 pages
This is Jackson's story. He's the President of the MC and kind of a soft hearted guy. He has to make hard decisions that take their toll on him but he loves his club and his biker brothers. This story also continues with the suspense of the Hogan drama. After a girl crawls her way into the compound badly beaten, the club takes care of her and helps her rehab. Jackson allows her, Serenity, to stay at his home with he and his grown daughter, Addison.

Serenity has a HUGE secret. She's Hogan's daughter and she's a spy for her father. She has to get him info regarding Jackson and Spike's clubs so Hogan can destroy it. He wants to kill them all. He's threatened Serenity's best friend's daughter if she doesn't. After spending time with the club, she knows they're not the bad ones in this scenario. She builds friendships with the women in the club and really likes them. Her father is a monster who beats her constantly and her fear for the little girl is real. She also falls for Jackson, who is fifteen years her senior. She knows what will happen when he finds out she's betrayed him. So, she starts feeding her father wrong info to protect the club and the man she's grown to love.

I really enjoyed this book and this series. This is the last full length book of it but there is a novella featuring Muff. Yep, that's his name and yes you can guess what he likes. I would recommend this series to anyone who wants a scorching hot series with foul mouthed alpha males and just enough suspense to make it fun.

Sunday, January 19, 2014

Shipwrecked Seduction by Rosemary J. Anderson

Shipwrecked Seduction (MF)
Grade-C+
Hotness Level-Inferno
Kink Level-No Kink
Genre-Contemporary
Reviewed by Kate
Before we begin, please be aware that the publisher has tagged this book as "forced seduction."
 
Jacob is a self-made billionaire and he holds Daisy's father's fate in his hands. When Daisy reluctantly approaches Jacob to help save her father, he agrees on the condition that she becomes his mistress.
 
This book has it all! We're talking a virgin, a billionaire, a bargain, pirates, and a deserted island. How can this book fail?
 
I couldn't get over the fact that Daisy, a 23 year old virgin, was quite schooled in the art of seduction. For being as sheltered as she was, I couldn't help but wonder how exactly she knew so much. She falls for Jacob quickly, despite the nasty agreement. You've got to give a woman credit for being able to seperate mind-blowing sex from the contract she signed saying she has to provide sex.
 
Jacob was a rare billionaire that knew how to survive on a deserted island. I believe while attending the school of hard knocks he must have taken a course in survival, learning which things were edible and which things weren't as well as how to construct a shelter with hardly any tools. He did ride the ass-or-not seesaw throughout the story. And generally ass-or-not seesaw riders are enough to make me hate a hero, but I honestly couldn't get enough of Jacob.
 
If there was one thing that got on my nerves, it was both Daisy and Jacob's attitude toward murder. Now I know that sounds funny and I'm not saying that they were pro-murder. It's just that they were so anit-murder. We're talking kidnapping, sex-hungry pirates. Jacob is prepared to kill Daisy if it comes down to it so she won't have to suffer such a fate, but he's not prepared to kill any of the pirates because that would be murder. They wouldn't even think of killing any of the animals on the island for food.
 
Actually I enjoyed the crap out of this book. It's one of those that I enjoyed more than I probably should have. I know it will be one that I will reread. If you enjoy reading about deserted islands, billionaires, virgins, and pirate villains, and you can ignore some outlandishness, give this one a try.

Saturday, January 18, 2014

Return to You by Kate Perry

Return To You (Laurel Heights, #3)
Grade-C
Hotness Level-Blaze/Inferno
Kink Level-No Kink
Series-Laurel Heights #3
Genre-Contemporary
Reviewed by Kate
344 pages

It's been eleven years since Michael left town to pursue his dreams in Hollywood, leaving the love of his life, Olivia, behind. Now he's come back to film a movie and has to face Olivia again. Olivia's been nursing her broken heart for the eleven years Michael's been gone, but can she love someone who hurt her so badly before?
 
I have enjoyed each of the Laurel Heights books that I've read and this one is no exception. There is just so much inner turmoil and angst with Michael and Olivia. I just wanted to lock them in a room together until they got everything sorted out...oh wait, that happened (only it was a shed instead of a room) and they still managed to not get anything sorted out. Had this one been a little less angsty (I think that's a word), I would have enjoyed it more. I did find the secondary romance between Olivia's father and his assistant sweet and tender.
 
If you like low conflict romances along the lines of Jill Shalvis's Lucky Harbor series, this is a series I would highly recommend.

Friday, January 17, 2014

Rebound by Sabrina York

Rebound (Tryst Island, #1)
Grade-C-
Hotness Level-Inferno
Kink Level-No Kink
Series-Tryst Island #1
Genre-Contemporary
Reviewed by Kate
84 pages

One weekend, Kristi and Cam both show up at the cabin that they own with other friends. That in itself wouldn't be that unusual, but this time they both show up unattached. Usually at least one of them is in the middle of a relationship, but this time they are both free. So when a bet is made on a game of Hearts, there's no reason for Cam and Kristi not to explore the lust that they each have for each other.
 
This one is a hard one for me to review because I didn't have really strong feelings about it either way. Everything about the story was just so-so. If you like your romances to be low conflict and short, this might be worth reading. Unfortunately, I don't think I'll be trying the next book in this series.

Thursday, January 16, 2014

Wicked Games by Jill Myles

Wicked Games (Games, #1)
Grade-B
Hotness Level-Blaze
Kink Level-No Kink
Series-Games #1
Genre-Contemporary
Reviewed by Kay
231 pages
Being a fan of Survivor, I didn't know if I'd like this book. The premise is the same as Survivor, so are the challenges and the weather conditions. Even the location in this book was on Survivor. That being said, I did enjoy the book.

Dean is an Olympic medal swimmer who wants to win this game show. Not for the money but for the title. Abby is a writer/reporter who was forced by her boss to step in after another contestant bowed out. She was in fear for her job and was offered a book deal if she played the game. She reluctantly agreed to do it. She and Dean end up paired together and one thing leads to another.

I really enjoyed both main characters. They were funny and likeable. The story was fast paced and I totally bought into their love story. Dean's journal entries were heartwarming. His love for Abby was so obvious but because of her self esteem issues, it was hard for her to truly believe. I enjoy Jill Myles when she wries as Jessica Clare. She does a great job with this novella length story. There's humor, emotion and hot sex. If you are a Survivor fan you'll really enjoy this one.

Wednesday, January 15, 2014

Fighting Love by Abby Niles

Fighting Love (Love to the Extreme, #2)
Grade-B
Hotness Level-Inferno
Kink Level-No Kink
Series-Love to the Extreme #2
Genre-Contemporary
Reviewed by Kay
352 pages
To say Tommy Sparks is down on his luck would be an understatement. He's lost his MMA title, his self respect and his house. When he was at the top of his sport, he had it all. Money, women popularity and his best friend, Julie. Due to some of his issues, he lost it all. All of it except Julie. Now he has to move in with her until the insurance pays for the losses due to his house catching on fire.

Julie has loved Tommy since she was ten years old. He was her savior then and her very best friend since. They used to sneak into each other's room at night, when their home lives became too much. She has watched an endless parade of friends and women come through Tommy's life. And still, she loves him. She so desperately wants Tommy to see her as a woman and not his "sister". When she offers him a place to stay she knows she has to be careful with her heart and feelings.

This was a great story and more emotional than I thought it would be. I felt bad for Tommy because he never thought that with his past, he'd be good enough for Julie. I really liked both characters up until the end. I thought Julie became kind of a shrew. I know she always felt second place to Tommy's fame but seriously, Julie! Calm your ass down! I will not hesitate to read the first book in this series or any others that follow. I just hope that the heroines aren't shrews.

Tuesday, January 14, 2014

Desperately Seeking Fireman by Jennifer Bernard

Desperately Seeking Fireman (The Bachelor Firemen of San Gabriel, #4.5)
Grade-B
Hotness Level-Blaze
Kink Level-No Kink
Series-The Bachelor Firemen of San Gabriel #4.5
Genre-Contemporary
Reviewed by Kay
100 pages
Jeb Stone is the captain of the San Gabriel fire department for shift C. He was married for several years but got divorced. He has an eighteen year old daughter who wants him to date and get on with his life. He meets Nita Moreno at his friend's wedding. He's instantly attracted to her and kind of flirts with her. He is still married at this time and this was a little off-putting for me. There's a reason behind Jeb and his wife's marriage but that's for you to read.

The story moves ahead a few years and Melissa, his friend's wife is coming to get an exclusive interview with a Senator. The Senator that Nita works for. This interview takes place in San Lucia and Jeb gets bamboozled into shadowing Melissa because she's hugely pregnant. He's surprised to see Nita and that his attraction to her hasn't waned.

I hate to admit it but this is one of those series that I have fallen behind on. It's a good series and I hope to catch up on it now. My main complaint in saying that is that her books aren't on Kindle through my library. I love to support the authors I read but sometimes I can't justify the money at the time I want to read it. Then I tend to forget because of the amount of books I have to read.

This is a novella and its just sweet. About two people who have lost and still keep trying to pull it all together. The story is witty, engaging and sexy. If you want a story that is just precious, this is it.

Monday, January 13, 2014

The Summer He Came Home by Juliana Stone

The Summer He Came Home (Bad Boys of Crystal Lake, #1)
Grade-B
Hotness Level-Blaze
Kink Level-No Kink
Series-Bad Boys of Crystal Lake #1
Genre-Contemporary
Reviewed by Kay
384 pages
Cain Black was one of the Bad Boys of Crystal Lake. He left town ten years ago to chase his music dream. He's back now for his friend's funeral. His future looks pretty good considering his band is about to make it big. He recently got out of a disastrous marriage and was just looking to pay his respects to his deceased friend, then he was moving on. At the funeral reception he sees Maggie and it was love at first sight.

Maggie is a single mother with a young son, Michael. They don't have much money but she does have a BIG secret. A dangerous secret. She makes her bills by cleaning houses. She lives in a little bungalow that's perfect for her and her son. She sees Cain and at first she's frightened but also attracted. She has no time for a relationship with a rock star that will soon be leaving town. She has a son to protect, she tells herself.

I read the second book in this series first and LOVED it. I truly enjoyed this one except for one thing. She's married. Granted, she's on the run from her abusive ex but I don't like to read about adultery. At all. Honestly, it changed how I rated the book. I'm telling you this as a warning if adultery is a hard limit for you as a reader.

Otherwise, this was a great and very sweet book. Their relationship building was fun to read. There's humor, suspense, sadness and some steamy sex in this story. I would recommend this series to anyone who believes in the healing power of love and I'm eagerly awaiting the next book.

Sunday, January 12, 2014

Snowbound with the CEO BY Shannon Stacey

Snowbound with the CEO
Grade: B
Hotness Level: Blaze
Kink Level: No Kink
Genre: Contemporary, Novella
Published: 11/4/13
Reviewed by Anne
66 pages

Rachel has a crush on her boss, Adrian.  Adrian owns and runs a very successful construction/rehabilitation company, and unbeknownst to Rachel, he has a crush right back on her.  When they get snowed in together at a mountain resort, they spend some non-working time together, which leads to a weekend fling.
 
If I had a crush on my CEO boss and decided to have some no strings sex with each other, but then ended up falling for him, I think this is exactly how it would go down.  It's emotionally messy.  They work very well together, but when it comes to personal stuff, they stumble around and try not to step on the other's toes.  That was a little frustrating, but it felt so real!
 
The story was still that great Shannon Stacey mix of sweet and funny.  It's a quick and enjoyable holiday read that I recommend.

Saturday, January 11, 2014

His To Possess: Perfect Storm by Opal Carew

Perfect Storm (His to Possess, #3)
Grade-B
Hotness Level-Inferno
Kink Level-Mild Kink
Series-His To Possess #3
Genre-Contemporary, BDSM lite
Reviewed by Kay

Dane and Jessica's physical relationship is still progressing nicely at the onset of this book. They actually get caught having sex at work by her friend, Melissa. But since Dane's body was in front of hers, her identity isn't known. She ends up admitting to Melissa it was her.

I enjoyed this book even though nothing much happened in it. I like Dane and Jessica. They truly seem to have some kind of connection and its enjoyable to read about.

I hate that I have to wait until the next installment. There was quite a cliffhanger at the end of the book. Let me just say, that Rafe showed back up!

Friday, January 10, 2014

His To Possess: The Morning After by Opal Carew

The Morning After (His to Possess, #2)
Grade-B
Hotness Level-Inferno
Kink Level-No Kink
Series-His to Possess #2
Genre-Contemporary, BDSM lite
Reviewed by Kay
44 pages

This book starts right where the other one ended. Jessica is mortified that the man she had a one night stand is now her boss. They try to have a hands off professional relationship. Dane lets her know that he's willing to have a sexual relationship with her whenever she wants.

The two of them begin talking to each other about their pasts and relationships. Hers with Storm and his with his brother, Rafe. Rafe is out of town and he and Dane haven't spoken in ahwile.

This realtionship progresses nicely and quickly. Jessica emphasizes that she wants only a physical relationship with Dane. She's not ready for anything else at this this time. Jessica gets a phone call from her mom that says Storm is looking for her and has her phone number.

I liked this book better than the first. It seemed to move a little smoother for me. Still intriguing and with very hot sex scenes. I'm interested to see when Dane approaches her about his interest in a Dom/sub relationship.

Thursday, January 9, 2014

His To Possess: The Seduction by Opal Carew

The Seduction (His to Possess, #1)
Grade-C
Hotness Level-Inferno
Kink Level-No Kink
Series-His To Possess #1
Genre-Contemporary
Reviewed by Kay
34 pages

Jessica is down on her luck. She's unemployed and about to lose her apartment. Not to mention, she's nursing a heartache from her recent breakup with her boyfriend, Storm. She travels into Philadelphia to a job fair. She notices a man that looks so much like Storm that she actually goes up to him. When the man turns around, she realizes that it's not Storm. She's embarassed but the two have a conversation and he ends up giving her a ride to the job fair site.

After the job fair they run into each other and decide to have dinner together. Later that night, Jessica decides that she wants to have a one night stand with Dane. They share a hot night of sex and she sneaks out to return home.

This is series of novellas and I don't want to give too much away. I thought this book was okay and will continue series.

Wednesday, January 8, 2014

Have Yourself a Curvy Little Christmas by Sugar Jamison

18111068
Grade: B
Hotness Level: Blaze
Kink Level: No Kink
Genre: Contemporary, Secret Baby(ish), Holiday, Novella
Series: Perfect Fit, 1.5

Published: 10/1/13
Reviewed by Anne
111 pages
 
After reading Dangerous Curves Ahead, the first book in this Perfect Fit Series, I looked to see if Sugar Jamison had other books.  It turned out she'd already written this holiday novella.  I immediately requested it from NetGalley and was delighted to receive a copy of it.  When I realized it was about Dina, the toxic older sister featured in the first book, I was thrown off.  She was a total villain - someone I had no interest in seeing redeemed.  So I put off reading it.  My mistake!  It was good!
 
So, I read these two stories in order, but this novella really stands on it's own quite well.  
 
Dina is off to find her baby daddy.  She had a fling with him and when she told him she was pregnant he disappeared.  She's travelled across the country, on a bus, with her 10 month old son, to his home town.  To his family estate and mansion to track him down.  She's done a lot of maturing and changing of her ways since her baby, Dash, was born.  She wants his father to provide some security for him.
 
She's shocked to be shown in to see her ex-lover's brother and find out that her party boy baby daddy was killed in a drunken skiing accident.  Not only is the man she was looking for dead, but she's left with his brother, Ben, who she really didn't get along with the one time they met.  So it's a huge shock when Ben immediately offers to help her and Dash out.
 
"You are not taking my nephew to a cheap motel.  You will not be traveling with him on a bus.  Your destitution ends here."
 
"You're shitting me?"

"I shit you not."  (Kindle Loc 199)
 
This is the start of a wonderful holiday season.  (Did I mention this all happens in December?)  Dina agrees that she and Dash will stay with Ben until after Christmas, in order to give Ben and Dash time to get to know each other, and for her and Ben to work out an agreement for raising Dash.
 
I really enjoyed the humor in this story.  The relationship felt rushed, and not just because of the novella format.  It takes place over a couple of weeks, which is not a lot of time for them to get to know each other and fall in love.  Some things were a little too perfect - like their built in housekeeper/babysitter, but I really enjoyed the story.  

Tuesday, January 7, 2014

Heaven's Sinners by Bella Jewell

Heaven's Sinners (The MC Sinners, #2)
Grade-B-
Hotness Level-Inferno
Kink Level-No Kink
Series-TheMC Sinners #2
Genre-Contemporary
Reviewed by Kay
262 pages

Spike is a biker and a widower. He lost his wife and unborn child when he got involved in some shady business dealings. This loss devastated him and then when his best friend, Ciara came out publically against him, it was even worse. He has his own MC (motorcycle club) and continuously tries to put the past behind him.

Ciara is Spike's former sister-in-law. She has loved him for as long as she can remember. She even loved him when she came out publically against him. She has been trying to make it up to him ever since.

This book pulled at me emotionally a lot. You have Spike's guilt for the loss of his wife and unborn child, his guilt for blaming Cade, his friend, and his abhorrent treatment of Ciara. What Ciara did, she did out of pain, what he did was unforgivable, almost. There was alot of clearing the past here. I mean you meet these two people in the first book of the series but you don't know the whole story until now. I liked Spike a little in book one but I loved Ciara. Her life was a life of never being good enough for her parents or her sister. Their treatment of her was abusive emotionally in my opinion. You also have Spike's need for revenge against the man who killed his pregnant wife. And most importantly, the story of two very damaged people, who loved each other all along, learning the value of self responsibility and forgiveness.

If you want a hot and I mean hot book, read this book. You need to read the first one too. In this book though, you get a group of hot bikers, a heroine who likes to be a little bad and hero with spikes pierced up his you know what that he likes women to take out with their teeth. Anne, I know you want to know about these spikes.

Monday, January 6, 2014

Took My Breath Away by Thianna D.

Took My Breath Away
Grade-B
Hotness Levl-Inferno
Kink Level-Mild Kink
Series-All They Ever Needed #2
Genre-Contemporary, BDSM, m/m, domestic discpline

Christian is well on the way to overcoming his trauma from the time he spent in the Middle East.  Logan is looking forward to spending some time with his extended family in New York, but dreading missing Christian while he's gone.  Throughout it all, they are exploring the possibility of a domestic discipline relationship.

I love the relationship that's developing between Christian and Logan.  There is so much character growth that happens in the pages of this book.  In the midst of all this self-growth, they both manage to be there when the other needs them.  A wonderful relationship to read and a relationship that has hung around in my mind for a while after finishing it.

As much as I loved Christian and Logan, Logan's parents continued to bother me.  They are so open with both Christian and Logan-overly open.  I understand that when considering a unique relationship like domestic discipline it may be nice to have a mentor.  I'm just not sure that I can get past the fact that Logan's parents are the mentors that Logan and Christian choose.  I'm all for a strong relationship between parents and children but some of their conversations made me a bit uncomfortable.  They seemed like conversations that should have happened between best buddies rather than parents and their children (even if they are grown).  But that's probably all my own hang up.  Maybe it won't bother others.

Despite all that, I can't wait to hear what happens next for Logan and Christian.  I'm looking forward to seeing them explore more of the domestic discipline relationship that they've only talked about up until now.  Come on, Thianna D,  I need the next installment soon!

Sunday, January 5, 2014

Hell's Knights by Bella Jewell

Hell's Knights (The MC Sinners, #1)
Grade-B
Hotness Level-Inferno
Kink Level-No Kink
Series-The MC Sinners #1
Genre-Contemporary
Reviewed by Kay
211 pages
Addison has had a horrific upbringing. Truly horrific. She was raised by her junkie prostitute mother. She used drugs to escape her what is described as brutal rapes. After her mother's death, she searches out her father that she hadn't seen since her very young childhood. She knows basically nothing about him other than he's the President of a biker club, his name and that he never wanted her. But she has no place to go since she's on the run from her past.

Cade is the VP of her father's club and sexy as sin. He takes one look at Addison and decides he wants her. And he's not subtle about it either. He is sure she's on the run from something but not sure what exactly it is. He also loves her filthy sassy mouth. The road for these two isn't easy since they both have their demons. Not only their pasts but her dad is against them, since he wants a different life for Addison.

I've read other reviews about this book but I liked it. I liked it as well as I liked Motorcycle Man or Reaper's Property. Hot alpha males on motorcycles? Yes, please. I admit that there is some fascination for bikers for me. Probably, because of Sons of Anarchy, but the television is my only source of info about MC's, so if the descriptions in this book aren't accurate I'm okay with it. I thought the book was good and fast moving. Dirty sex scenes that were scrumptious. I'm all in on this series and can't wait to read the next one!

Saturday, January 4, 2014

Surrender by Serena Grey

Surrender (A Dangerous Man #4)
Grade-C
Hotness Level-Inferno
Kink Level-No Kink
Series-A Dangerous Man #4
Genre-Contemporary
Reviewed by Kay
109 pages

This is the conclusion to David and Sophie Preston's story.

Sophie is heartbroken over her separation from David, even though she is the one who asked for the separation. His failure to tell her that he loved her was bad enough but to say it was always just sex between them was pouring salt in the wound. Sophie just wanders through her life. She works, goes home and goes to bed. She goes and gets coffee everyday before work. She's sees the boy who lived next door to her when she was growing up. David said that this boy, Eddie, was in love with Sophie. Sophie never even considered Eddie as anything more than a friend.

Sophie caves and calls David. They have an awkward conversation and she hangs up. David later shows up at her work and takes her to dinner. They have a hot night of sex but nothing really changes. She still loves him and he most say if he loves her. She agrees to a drink with Eddie as just friends and this doesn't end well because David is waiting outside her apartment.

This book was just okay for me. I got really sick of David being a pussy about his childhood. I get that he had a bad childhood but as a grown man, he has to be accountable for his actions. He finally admitted that he loved her but by that time I had a bad taste in my mouth because of him.

Friday, January 3, 2014

Anne's Reading Goals for 2014

1. Finish reading Lorelei James' Rough Riders series - I owe these to Kay because she's listening to the In Death books, which I pushed on her.  (And now she's really glad I did!!!)

2. Read 120 books - that's not as many as Kay or Kate, but it would be a lot for me.  (Full disclosure: I hit 130 this year. I believe in attainable goals!)
 
3. Try books by Tessa Bailey and Kristen Ashley.  Apparently I've been missing out!
 
4. I'll accept a one book challenge from Kay. (But no suspense!)
 
5. I'll accept a one book challenge from Kate.

Finally, I want to thank Kay and Kate for picking up the reviewing when I started slacking off, and especially Kay for taking over some much of running the blog itself.  You guys rock!

Shattered Ink by Laura Wright


Shattered Ink (Wicked Ink Chronicles, #2)
Grade-B+
Hotness Level-Inferno
Kink Level-No Kink
Series-Wicked Ink #2
Genre-Contemporary
Reviewed by Kay
64 pages

This is a continuation of Addison and Rush's love story. Rush is still in Las Vegas working at his tattoo shop and Addison is back in Cali trying to get through finals, so she can graduate. Addison is worried about what happens next for them. She's not content to see each other for a day here and there or even on the weekends. She wants to be with him as much as possible. To see him, touch him, make love with him and wake up next to him.

Rush wants Addison to move to Las Vegas and in with him. He plans to ask her when she comes for the weekend. He hopes she feels the same way he does but he's cautiously optimistic. He forgot that his ex is coming to town this same weekend and will be working in his shop. He tries to keep the two away from each other because he confided in his ex about what happened between he and Addison in the past.

I love this series. I just wish the books were longer. It's a series a very short novellas. I adore the characters and I admit I'm a little in love with Rush. He's a very sexy character. He's got a filthy mind and a filthy mouth. Both are things I absolutely adore. This kind of wraps up their story and the next book is about Vince and Lisa! I look forward to it and all the wonderfully filthy sex scenes and dialogue that I'm sure will come with it!
                      

Thursday, January 2, 2014

Kate Reading Goals for 2014


My goals for 2013 were simple enough. And I'm good with simple. So I'm following in the same vein for 2014.
 
1. Read 200 books.

 2. Try the romantic suspense genre-a genre I've been avoiding. I want to read at least one each month, just to give the genre a fair shot.

 3. A challenge from Kay. The Wallflowers series by Lisa Kleypas.

 4. A challenge from Anne, yet to be determined.
 
And while not a goal, I'm definitely looking forward to getting back to reading my favorite plot. Marriage of convenience, an arranged marriage, mail order bride. My absolutely story line. But after a string of really bad ones, I decided in May to quit reading them for the rest of 2013. Now I can't wait to start reading them again.
 
So I'm looking for suggestions and advice. What do you recommend in the suspense genre? How about marriage of convenience/mail order brides?

Wednesday, January 1, 2014

Kay's Reading Goals For 2014


I have decided on my 2014 reading goals. I got this idea from Kate and Anne. My goals aren't numerous but they are different for me and are as follows:

1.) I will read a G.A. Aiken book.

2.) I will read Adam and Karla's book by Kallypso Masters even though that genre has just about killed me.

3.) I will accept one challenge from each of my co-bloggers, as long as it isn't too far out of my comfort zone.

4.) I will continue with the In Death series by J. D. Robb challenge with Anne. You are still several books behind on Lorelei James' series, Anne. Kate and I haven't forgotten this.

5.) I will read at least 20 books that have set on my Kindle collecting dust.

6.) And finally, I will try to read 200 books for 2014 and actually complete my Black Dagger Brotherhood Challenge.

These goals may not sound like much to you but this list is daunting to me. Now, what about you, Anne and Kate?