Taylor Fenner's Blog, page 124
March 1, 2018
(Audio)Book Review: Gentleman Nine by Penelope Ward
Gentleman Nine by Penelope WardBlurb:
From New York Times bestselling author Penelope Ward, comes a new, sexy standalone novel.
Growing up, the three of us were friends. He was the nerd. I was the playboy. She was the beauty.
Deep down, I only ever wanted her. I kept it inside because Rory and I made a pact that our friend, Amber, was off-limits.
He lied.
I went off to college, and he got the girl. Amber never knew how I felt. They were together for years—before he broke her heart.
Through it all and across the miles, she and I casually stayed in touch. When my job sent me to Boston for a three-month contract position, Amber let me stay in her spare room.
Still reeling from her breakup, she’d sworn off men. One night, I opened her computer to find the shock of my life. She’d hesitantly contacted a male escort company. Afraid to date and get her heart broken again, she was looking for sex with no strings. Every emotion imaginable ran through me: protectiveness, jealousy—curiosity. Amber had chosen Gentleman Number Nine and sent him a message. She opened up to him, confessing, among other things, her physical attraction to her friend—me. But she considered me off-limits—and she thought I was a manwhore. (Ironic, considering the circumstances.)
Eventually, she set up a date to meet Gentleman Nine at a hotel. When she showed up several nights later to meet him, she was stunned to see me standing there—with an offer I hoped she wouldn’t refuse.
My Review:I picked this book up after a week-long dilemma over what audiobook to pick. It was recommended by a blogger I follow on Instagram who had nothing but good things to say about it. I've never read anything by Penelope Ward before but I gave it a shot.
Gentleman Nine is about Channing and Amber, who grew up together secretly harboring feelings for the other. She was his younger sister's best friend, he was her boyfriend's best friend. Now as adults Channing comes to stay with Amber while he's in Boston just after Amber is dumped by her boyfriend Rory. Seeing Channing again makes Amber feel better - and reminds her just how much she wants him. Thinking it's unwise to try anything with Channing yet feeling sexually frustrated Amber takes the advice of her friend Annabelle and contacts a male escort company and emails "Gentleman Nine."
When Channing finds out what she's done he pretends to be Gentleman Nine and emails her back and when Amber shows up at the hotel she plans to meet Gentleman Nine at she's stunned to find Channing waiting for her with an unexpected proposition.
They try to stick to their pre-agreed to rules but soon their no-strings-attached fling turns out to be so much more than they ever expected. But Channing lives in Chicago and Amber lives in Boston and there are other things in their lives that could keep them apart. Will they end up together? Or will their time together end up nothing more than a memory to look back on fondly?
At first, I thought the writing was a little simplistic but then I got into the story and couldn't wait to see what happened next. I do think the words "cool" and "f***" were overused in this book which kind of annoyed me at times.
I really liked Channing as a character and I liked Amber up until a small section at the end where I finally understood why people hate love triangles so much, but overall I thought they had great chemistry and I loved listening to the characters interact.
There were two sections that I didn't think added anything to the story other than filler, which I will refer to as "the scare" and "the return of the ex" that I could have done without but overall I enjoyed the book.
I'm definitely interested in reading more by this author. I think fans of Abbi Glines and Kendall Ryan will enjoy this book.
My Rating:
From New York Times bestselling author Penelope Ward, comes a new, sexy standalone novel. Growing up, the three of us were friends. He was the nerd. I was the playboy. She was the beauty.
Deep down, I only ever wanted her. I kept it inside because Rory and I made a pact that our friend, Amber, was off-limits.
He lied.
I went off to college, and he got the girl. Amber never knew how I felt. They were together for years—before he broke her heart.
Through it all and across the miles, she and I casually stayed in touch. When my job sent me to Boston for a three-month contract position, Amber let me stay in her spare room.
Still reeling from her breakup, she’d sworn off men. One night, I opened her computer to find the shock of my life. She’d hesitantly contacted a male escort company. Afraid to date and get her heart broken again, she was looking for sex with no strings. Every emotion imaginable ran through me: protectiveness, jealousy—curiosity. Amber had chosen Gentleman Number Nine and sent him a message. She opened up to him, confessing, among other things, her physical attraction to her friend—me. But she considered me off-limits—and she thought I was a manwhore. (Ironic, considering the circumstances.)
Eventually, she set up a date to meet Gentleman Nine at a hotel. When she showed up several nights later to meet him, she was stunned to see me standing there—with an offer I hoped she wouldn’t refuse.
My Review:I picked this book up after a week-long dilemma over what audiobook to pick. It was recommended by a blogger I follow on Instagram who had nothing but good things to say about it. I've never read anything by Penelope Ward before but I gave it a shot.
Gentleman Nine is about Channing and Amber, who grew up together secretly harboring feelings for the other. She was his younger sister's best friend, he was her boyfriend's best friend. Now as adults Channing comes to stay with Amber while he's in Boston just after Amber is dumped by her boyfriend Rory. Seeing Channing again makes Amber feel better - and reminds her just how much she wants him. Thinking it's unwise to try anything with Channing yet feeling sexually frustrated Amber takes the advice of her friend Annabelle and contacts a male escort company and emails "Gentleman Nine."
When Channing finds out what she's done he pretends to be Gentleman Nine and emails her back and when Amber shows up at the hotel she plans to meet Gentleman Nine at she's stunned to find Channing waiting for her with an unexpected proposition.
They try to stick to their pre-agreed to rules but soon their no-strings-attached fling turns out to be so much more than they ever expected. But Channing lives in Chicago and Amber lives in Boston and there are other things in their lives that could keep them apart. Will they end up together? Or will their time together end up nothing more than a memory to look back on fondly?
At first, I thought the writing was a little simplistic but then I got into the story and couldn't wait to see what happened next. I do think the words "cool" and "f***" were overused in this book which kind of annoyed me at times.
I really liked Channing as a character and I liked Amber up until a small section at the end where I finally understood why people hate love triangles so much, but overall I thought they had great chemistry and I loved listening to the characters interact.
There were two sections that I didn't think added anything to the story other than filler, which I will refer to as "the scare" and "the return of the ex" that I could have done without but overall I enjoyed the book.
I'm definitely interested in reading more by this author. I think fans of Abbi Glines and Kendall Ryan will enjoy this book.
My Rating:
February 28, 2018
“What I’m Reading” Wednesday #110
This “WIR”-Wednesday I’m between physical books and since I don’t want to start a new book until the beginning of the month tomorrow I’m listening to an audiobook instead...
See How She Dies by Lisa Jackson
Blurb: London Danvers was kidnapped as a child from her wealthy family. Over the years, many women have claimed to be her, trying to lay claim to the long-lost heiress's inheritance. Among them is Adria Nash, who has arrived in Oregon, claiming to be London-but, unlike the others, she's different: she knows personal details only London could have known. And there is someone who does believe her-who is watching her every move, waiting to see how she runs, how she screams, and how she dies...
Why I Chose This Book | What I Think So Far: I liked the sound of this book and initially I had it on my Amazon to-buy-in-print-Book list but then I introduced my grandmother to audiobooks and this was one of the ones she chose. We have a household account so I just shared it to my kindle so I could listen to it to. I like the narrator’s voice, she doesn’t put me to sleep or annoy me and I’m enjoying the story so far. One thing I’m noticing though is that some of the chapters are very long. (Example: one chapter is 43 minutes long when on audiobook.) I’m eager to see how this ends though because I like Lisa Jackson’s work.
See How She Dies by Lisa Jackson
Blurb: London Danvers was kidnapped as a child from her wealthy family. Over the years, many women have claimed to be her, trying to lay claim to the long-lost heiress's inheritance. Among them is Adria Nash, who has arrived in Oregon, claiming to be London-but, unlike the others, she's different: she knows personal details only London could have known. And there is someone who does believe her-who is watching her every move, waiting to see how she runs, how she screams, and how she dies... Why I Chose This Book | What I Think So Far: I liked the sound of this book and initially I had it on my Amazon to-buy-in-print-Book list but then I introduced my grandmother to audiobooks and this was one of the ones she chose. We have a household account so I just shared it to my kindle so I could listen to it to. I like the narrator’s voice, she doesn’t put me to sleep or annoy me and I’m enjoying the story so far. One thing I’m noticing though is that some of the chapters are very long. (Example: one chapter is 43 minutes long when on audiobook.) I’m eager to see how this ends though because I like Lisa Jackson’s work.
February 27, 2018
{Release Day Blitz} Baby Daddy by Kendall Ryan
It's here! Today I'm happy to share the release of Kendall Ryan's latest novel, BABY DADDY! I can't wait to read it!
A hot and hilarious new standalone from New York Times bestseller Kendall Ryan.We met in a trapped elevator.
Emmett was on his way to work, sophisticated and handsome in his tailored suit and tie. I was on my way to the sperm bank. Awkward, right? At thirty-five, my life hadn’t taken the path I thought it would and I was tired of waiting—I wanted a baby. And I was ready to take matters into my own hands to make it happen. After our ill-fated elevator encounter, Emmett insisted on taking me to dinner—he also insisted on something else—that I ditch my plan involving a turkey baster and let him do the job. He would be my baby daddy. He was a wealthy and powerful CEO with little interest in diapers or playdates. And since he didn’t want kids, I’d be on my own once his bun was in my oven, free to go my own way. But once his baby was inside me, it was like a switch had been flipped, and I got a whole lot more than I ever bargained for.
This full-length standalone contains a hot, swoonworthy hero, lots of playful banter and some hot baby-making ! Enjoy.
Amazon | Amazon.UK | Amazon.CA | Amazon.AU | iBooks | Kobo | Nook | Google Play | Amazon.FR
A New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author of more than two dozen titles, Kendall Ryan has sold over 1.5 million books and her books have been translated into several languages in countries around the world. She's a traditionally published author with Simon & Schuster and Harper Collins UK, as well as an independently published author. Since she first began self-publishing in 2012, she's appeared at #1 on Barnes & Noble and iBooks charts around the world. Her books have also appeared on the New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists more than three dozen times. Ryan has been featured in such publications as USA Today, Newsweek, and InTouch Magazine. Visit her at: www.kendallryanbooks.com for the latest book news, and fun extras Subscribe to Newletter Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Goodreads | Amazon Author Page
A hot and hilarious new standalone from New York Times bestseller Kendall Ryan.We met in a trapped elevator.
Emmett was on his way to work, sophisticated and handsome in his tailored suit and tie. I was on my way to the sperm bank. Awkward, right? At thirty-five, my life hadn’t taken the path I thought it would and I was tired of waiting—I wanted a baby. And I was ready to take matters into my own hands to make it happen. After our ill-fated elevator encounter, Emmett insisted on taking me to dinner—he also insisted on something else—that I ditch my plan involving a turkey baster and let him do the job. He would be my baby daddy. He was a wealthy and powerful CEO with little interest in diapers or playdates. And since he didn’t want kids, I’d be on my own once his bun was in my oven, free to go my own way. But once his baby was inside me, it was like a switch had been flipped, and I got a whole lot more than I ever bargained for.
This full-length standalone contains a hot, swoonworthy hero, lots of playful banter and some hot baby-making ! Enjoy.
Amazon | Amazon.UK | Amazon.CA | Amazon.AU | iBooks | Kobo | Nook | Google Play | Amazon.FR
A New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author of more than two dozen titles, Kendall Ryan has sold over 1.5 million books and her books have been translated into several languages in countries around the world. She's a traditionally published author with Simon & Schuster and Harper Collins UK, as well as an independently published author. Since she first began self-publishing in 2012, she's appeared at #1 on Barnes & Noble and iBooks charts around the world. Her books have also appeared on the New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists more than three dozen times. Ryan has been featured in such publications as USA Today, Newsweek, and InTouch Magazine. Visit her at: www.kendallryanbooks.com for the latest book news, and fun extras Subscribe to Newletter Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Goodreads | Amazon Author Page
Book Review: Darkest Night by Tara Thomas
Darkest Night (Sons of Broad #1) by Tara Thomas
Blurb:In this first novel in the explosive, brand-new romantic suspense Sons of Broad series from Tara Thomas comes a novel of deadly secrets and hidden danger. In the sultry streets of Charleston, one family, ruled by its powerful, take-no-prisoners sons, has risen to the top. But a merciless killer is out to destroy them…and everyone they hold close…
Keaton Benedict is the notorious playboy of Charleston’s streets. The youngest brother in the ruthless clan of men that run the biggest shipping industry in the South, he’s got money to burn and time to play. But there’s one woman for whom Keaton would give up everything he has just to kiss her one more time—the beautiful girl he loved when he was just a teenager. And when he finds her waitressing at an upscale gentlemen’s club the same night as a gruesome murder of one of the dancers, Keaton knows he must do everything he can to protect her.
Tilly Brock has learned the hard way to take care of herself. Once the daughter of a wealthy, well-bred Southern family, her life fell apart when her father was accused of embezzling money from Benedict Industries—an accusation that left her family destitute, and ripped Tilly away from the only boy she knew she would ever love. But just as she slowly reenters Keaton’s world of wealth and status, an enemy of Benedict industries is out there, biding his time, waiting to make his next move…
As the killer draws Tillly and Keaton closer into his dark web, they must uncover the threat that hunts them, before it’s too late.
My Review:A week after Tilly Brock's first kiss with her childhood best friend Keaton Benedict, her father was accused of embezzling from Keaton's father's powerful shipping industry and her family's standing in Charleston was ruined. Now back in Charleston and working as a waitress in a gentlemen's club Tilly fantasizes that one day the boy she left behind will come walking through the door - and then he does.
Keaton Benedict never forgot about Tilly Brock nor did he ever quite believe what he father was accused of. Now years later when he reconnects with her by chance and realizes their old attraction is still there and stronger than ever he knows that he doesn't want to lose her from his life again.
But someone in the shadows has an old grudge against the Benedict family and he's targeting the Benedicts through the people they care for the most and when bodies begin dropping at their door Keaton and Tilly will have to rely on each other and the strength of the Benedict family to stop a killer before it's too late.
I really liked Darkest Night. The story draws you in, told in multiple perspectives including the mysterious "The Gentleman." Who is the Gentleman? Why does he hate the Benedict family so much?
I liked the pacing of the book although it felt too fast in places... I swear there were two or three deaths in three days. I would have drawn it out a little more. The suspense was gripping and I couldn't wait to find out what would happen, but this book doesn't give a true resolution but a lead into the second book. I'm not sure we'll get an answer as to who The Gentleman is until the third book, but I'm sure it will keep me reading the series until I find out! I loved the Benedict brothers and Tilly's relationship with Keaton, although at times some of the things he said to her were a little cheesy.
The one thing I didn't like in this book was the Elise subplot. There's a killer after Tilly but hey, let's add in someone blackmailing Keaton into marriage just for the hell of it. It should have been one or the other or maybe Elise as the killer in my opinion. I also didn't feel like I got a true handle on Tilly's father's embezzlement. Did he do it or not? Will the answer be revealed in a future book?
Overall, I really liked this book. It reminded me of an early Carly Phillips crossed with Lisa Jackson and I couldn't put it down! I can't wait to read the next two books!
My Rating
Blurb:In this first novel in the explosive, brand-new romantic suspense Sons of Broad series from Tara Thomas comes a novel of deadly secrets and hidden danger. In the sultry streets of Charleston, one family, ruled by its powerful, take-no-prisoners sons, has risen to the top. But a merciless killer is out to destroy them…and everyone they hold close…Keaton Benedict is the notorious playboy of Charleston’s streets. The youngest brother in the ruthless clan of men that run the biggest shipping industry in the South, he’s got money to burn and time to play. But there’s one woman for whom Keaton would give up everything he has just to kiss her one more time—the beautiful girl he loved when he was just a teenager. And when he finds her waitressing at an upscale gentlemen’s club the same night as a gruesome murder of one of the dancers, Keaton knows he must do everything he can to protect her.
Tilly Brock has learned the hard way to take care of herself. Once the daughter of a wealthy, well-bred Southern family, her life fell apart when her father was accused of embezzling money from Benedict Industries—an accusation that left her family destitute, and ripped Tilly away from the only boy she knew she would ever love. But just as she slowly reenters Keaton’s world of wealth and status, an enemy of Benedict industries is out there, biding his time, waiting to make his next move…
As the killer draws Tillly and Keaton closer into his dark web, they must uncover the threat that hunts them, before it’s too late.
My Review:A week after Tilly Brock's first kiss with her childhood best friend Keaton Benedict, her father was accused of embezzling from Keaton's father's powerful shipping industry and her family's standing in Charleston was ruined. Now back in Charleston and working as a waitress in a gentlemen's club Tilly fantasizes that one day the boy she left behind will come walking through the door - and then he does.
Keaton Benedict never forgot about Tilly Brock nor did he ever quite believe what he father was accused of. Now years later when he reconnects with her by chance and realizes their old attraction is still there and stronger than ever he knows that he doesn't want to lose her from his life again.
But someone in the shadows has an old grudge against the Benedict family and he's targeting the Benedicts through the people they care for the most and when bodies begin dropping at their door Keaton and Tilly will have to rely on each other and the strength of the Benedict family to stop a killer before it's too late.
I really liked Darkest Night. The story draws you in, told in multiple perspectives including the mysterious "The Gentleman." Who is the Gentleman? Why does he hate the Benedict family so much?
I liked the pacing of the book although it felt too fast in places... I swear there were two or three deaths in three days. I would have drawn it out a little more. The suspense was gripping and I couldn't wait to find out what would happen, but this book doesn't give a true resolution but a lead into the second book. I'm not sure we'll get an answer as to who The Gentleman is until the third book, but I'm sure it will keep me reading the series until I find out! I loved the Benedict brothers and Tilly's relationship with Keaton, although at times some of the things he said to her were a little cheesy.
The one thing I didn't like in this book was the Elise subplot. There's a killer after Tilly but hey, let's add in someone blackmailing Keaton into marriage just for the hell of it. It should have been one or the other or maybe Elise as the killer in my opinion. I also didn't feel like I got a true handle on Tilly's father's embezzlement. Did he do it or not? Will the answer be revealed in a future book?
Overall, I really liked this book. It reminded me of an early Carly Phillips crossed with Lisa Jackson and I couldn't put it down! I can't wait to read the next two books!
My Rating
February 26, 2018
MCM: Book Boyfriend of the Month - February
This month I fell in love with a lot of book boyfriends. The fierce warrior loyal to his people, the sexy lifeguard who becomes complicit in a murder, the broken boy-king and this one; my book boyfriend of the month...
Man Crush Monday: Book Boyfriend of the Month - FebruarySlate Allen
Book Slate appears in: As She Fades by Abbi Glines
Why I'm Crushing:Slate Allen is portrayed as the playboy manwhore who's only after a good time. But in reality he's a caring soul who reads to children in the sick ward of the hospital, reads to people in comas, cares about the people in his life, and is completely destroyed by his uncle's illness. I love the way he watches over Vale in this book and even when the story flips on its' head I love his chemistry with Vale.
Man Crush Monday: Book Boyfriend of the Month - FebruarySlate Allen
Book Slate appears in: As She Fades by Abbi Glines
Why I'm Crushing:Slate Allen is portrayed as the playboy manwhore who's only after a good time. But in reality he's a caring soul who reads to children in the sick ward of the hospital, reads to people in comas, cares about the people in his life, and is completely destroyed by his uncle's illness. I love the way he watches over Vale in this book and even when the story flips on its' head I love his chemistry with Vale.
February 25, 2018
Book Review: The Wrath and The Dawn by Renee Ahdieh
The Wrath and The Dawn (The Wrath and The Dawn #1) by Renee Ahdieh
Blurb:One Life to One Dawn.
In a land ruled by a murderous boy-king, each dawn brings heartache to a new family. Khalid, the eighteen-year-old Caliph of Khorasan, is a monster. Each night he takes a new bride only to have a silk cord wrapped around her throat come morning. When sixteen-year-old Shahrzad's dearest friend falls victim to Khalid, Shahrzad vows vengeance and volunteers to be his next bride. Shahrzad is determined not only to stay alive, but to end the caliph's reign of terror once and for all.
Night after night, Shahrzad beguiles Khalid, weaving stories that enchant, ensuring her survival, though she knows each dawn could be her last. But something she never expected begins to happen: Khalid is nothing like what she'd imagined him to be. This monster is a boy with a tormented heart. Incredibly, Shahrzad finds herself falling in love. How is this possible? It's an unforgivable betrayal. Still, Shahrzad has come to understand all is not as it seems in this palace of marble and stone. She resolves to uncover whatever secrets lurk and, despite her love, be ready to take Khalid's life as retribution for the many lives he's stolen. Can their love survive this world of stories and secrets?
Inspired by A Thousand and One Nights, The Wrath and the Dawn is a sumptuous and enthralling read from beginning to end.
My Review:The Wrath and The Dawn was recommended to me almost a year ago by my bookstagram friend Tyffany and I bought this book and its sequel during Good Choice Reading's Virtual Signing last May but for some reason I didn't read it until now. And as I write this review I'm sitting here wondering why it took me so long because I loved this book so much.
The Wrath and The Dawn is a fantasy retelling of Shahrzad and the thousand and one nights. If you're unfamiliar with the tale its about a Middle Eastern sheikh or king or something that after being betrayed by his first wife marries a new woman every night, murdering his brides the day after the wedding but then he marries Shahrzad, who stalls him from killing her night after night (for presumably 1001 nights) by telling him a story every night but stopping in the middle of each so he'll have to wait until the next night to hear the end. And by that time the ruler has fallen in love with his enchanting bride, so he decides not to kill her at all.
This book follows that basic storyline with a twist, Shahrzad is the best friend of one of the girls Caliph Khalid has killed and she marries the young Caliph to get close enough to get revenge for her deceased friend by killing him. But the longer she spends in Khalid's company the more she sees that he's not the monster she thought he was, but a broken soul who's being forced to kill one bride after another as an awful sort of penance.
At the same time her childhood love is gathering forces to save Shahrzad and kill the Caliph. Can Shahrzad admit her love for the man she holds responsible for her friend's death? Or will they become casualties of the brewing war?
Like I said, I loved this book! The storytelling was great, I could see everything so clearly and I loved this reimagining of the 1001 nights story. Shahrzad is a strong female character who meets her true equal in the (not-so-) cold-hearted Khalid. I also love the minor characters we're introduced to at the palace, especially Despina.
I saw Tariq and Shahrzad's father as villains in this book and I worry for how things will go in the next book. Will Khalid and Shahrzad get a happy ending? I can't wait to read the next book and find out!
My Rating:
Blurb:One Life to One Dawn.In a land ruled by a murderous boy-king, each dawn brings heartache to a new family. Khalid, the eighteen-year-old Caliph of Khorasan, is a monster. Each night he takes a new bride only to have a silk cord wrapped around her throat come morning. When sixteen-year-old Shahrzad's dearest friend falls victim to Khalid, Shahrzad vows vengeance and volunteers to be his next bride. Shahrzad is determined not only to stay alive, but to end the caliph's reign of terror once and for all.
Night after night, Shahrzad beguiles Khalid, weaving stories that enchant, ensuring her survival, though she knows each dawn could be her last. But something she never expected begins to happen: Khalid is nothing like what she'd imagined him to be. This monster is a boy with a tormented heart. Incredibly, Shahrzad finds herself falling in love. How is this possible? It's an unforgivable betrayal. Still, Shahrzad has come to understand all is not as it seems in this palace of marble and stone. She resolves to uncover whatever secrets lurk and, despite her love, be ready to take Khalid's life as retribution for the many lives he's stolen. Can their love survive this world of stories and secrets?
Inspired by A Thousand and One Nights, The Wrath and the Dawn is a sumptuous and enthralling read from beginning to end.
My Review:The Wrath and The Dawn was recommended to me almost a year ago by my bookstagram friend Tyffany and I bought this book and its sequel during Good Choice Reading's Virtual Signing last May but for some reason I didn't read it until now. And as I write this review I'm sitting here wondering why it took me so long because I loved this book so much.
The Wrath and The Dawn is a fantasy retelling of Shahrzad and the thousand and one nights. If you're unfamiliar with the tale its about a Middle Eastern sheikh or king or something that after being betrayed by his first wife marries a new woman every night, murdering his brides the day after the wedding but then he marries Shahrzad, who stalls him from killing her night after night (for presumably 1001 nights) by telling him a story every night but stopping in the middle of each so he'll have to wait until the next night to hear the end. And by that time the ruler has fallen in love with his enchanting bride, so he decides not to kill her at all.
This book follows that basic storyline with a twist, Shahrzad is the best friend of one of the girls Caliph Khalid has killed and she marries the young Caliph to get close enough to get revenge for her deceased friend by killing him. But the longer she spends in Khalid's company the more she sees that he's not the monster she thought he was, but a broken soul who's being forced to kill one bride after another as an awful sort of penance.
At the same time her childhood love is gathering forces to save Shahrzad and kill the Caliph. Can Shahrzad admit her love for the man she holds responsible for her friend's death? Or will they become casualties of the brewing war?
Like I said, I loved this book! The storytelling was great, I could see everything so clearly and I loved this reimagining of the 1001 nights story. Shahrzad is a strong female character who meets her true equal in the (not-so-) cold-hearted Khalid. I also love the minor characters we're introduced to at the palace, especially Despina.
I saw Tariq and Shahrzad's father as villains in this book and I worry for how things will go in the next book. Will Khalid and Shahrzad get a happy ending? I can't wait to read the next book and find out!
My Rating:
February 24, 2018
#BookTag Saturday: Catching Up Part II
Oftentimes I get hopelessly behind in my book tags on here and on Instagram, so I do a bunch of them at one time. This week I've cranked four out at once...
I was tagged by @heretherebeareader for the #shelfie tag and also for the #animalbooktag
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I was tagged by @heretherebeareader for the #shelfie tag and also for the #animalbooktag
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February 22, 2018
Book Mail of the Month: February
It's the last Thursday of February which means it's time for Book Mail of the Month. I've gotten a lot of great book mail this month so let's open my mailbox and see what's inside...
Week One (February 1-2, 2018)
Moonlight Sins by Jennifer L. Armentrout
Week Two (February 4-10)
Reign of the Fallen by Sarah Glenn Marsh (Signed Copy + Character Cards)
As She Fades by Abbi Glines (eARC)
Week Three (February 11-17)
Shatter by Aprilynne Pike
Shadowsong by S. Jae-Jones
Week Four (Feburary 18-24)
Heart of Ash by Kim Liggett
One Small Thing by Erin Watt (ARC)
Week Five (February 25-28)
No Anticipated Book Mail
Anticipated March Book Mail:The Wicked Deep by Shea Ernshaw (UK Edition)
Lost Crow Conspiracy by Rosalyn Eves (Library Hold)
Did you get any exciting book mail this month? Any new releases you just had to have? Shatter and Heart of Ash were my two big important ones for February and I'm so excited to read them.
Week One (February 1-2, 2018)
Moonlight Sins by Jennifer L. Armentrout
Week Two (February 4-10)
Reign of the Fallen by Sarah Glenn Marsh (Signed Copy + Character Cards)
As She Fades by Abbi Glines (eARC)
Week Three (February 11-17)
Shatter by Aprilynne Pike
Shadowsong by S. Jae-Jones
Week Four (Feburary 18-24)
Heart of Ash by Kim Liggett
One Small Thing by Erin Watt (ARC)
Week Five (February 25-28)
No Anticipated Book Mail
Anticipated March Book Mail:The Wicked Deep by Shea Ernshaw (UK Edition)
Lost Crow Conspiracy by Rosalyn Eves (Library Hold)
Did you get any exciting book mail this month? Any new releases you just had to have? Shatter and Heart of Ash were my two big important ones for February and I'm so excited to read them.
February 21, 2018
EXCERPT REVEAL: Baby Daddy by Kendall Ryan
Today I'm excited to help InkSlingerPR and Kendall Ryan reveal the excerpt for her upcoming - *almost here* - release, BABY DADDY!
A hot and hilarious new standalone from New York Times bestseller Kendall Ryan.
We met in a trapped elevator.
Emmett was on his way to work, sophisticated and handsome in his tailored suit and tie. I was on my way to the sperm bank. Awkward, right? At thirty-five, my life hadn’t taken the path I thought it would and I was tired of waiting—I wanted a baby. And I was ready to take matters into my own hands to make it happen. After our ill-fated elevator encounter, Emmett insisted on taking me to dinner—he also insisted on something else—that I ditch my plan involving a turkey baster and let him do the job. He would be my baby daddy. He was a wealthy and powerful CEO with little interest in diapers or playdates. And since he didn’t want kids, I’d be on my own once his bun was in my oven, free to go my own way. But once his baby was inside me, it was like a switch had been flipped, and I got a whole lot more than I ever bargained for.
This full-length standalone contains a hot, swoonworthy hero, lots of playful banter and some hot baby-making ! Enjoy. Amazon | Amazon.UK | Amazon.CA | Amazon.AU | iBooksPrologue Emmett
I love my dick.
That’s a fact.
And I’m not afraid to admit he’s both my best friend and my most trusted advisor. Sure, he’s gotten me into some tight spots over the years—pun very much intended—but that’s what makes life fun, right? I wouldn’t trade our relationship for the world. He stands tall and proud . . . and when he spots something he likes? He bobs with pleasure, begging to get closer.
And as for me? Well, I trust his judgment. Completely. He didn’t bob for the stunning and funny Laura in accounting. I knew there was a reason, and as it turns out, she’s a bit of a klepto. Three hundred seventy-two staplers kind of klepto.
But I’m not a total douchebag, I promise. I’m just a young CEO under immense pressure, so in my downtime, blowing off steam is practically a necessity. It’s my duty to keep my dick happy, and a steady diet of beautiful women keeps us both satisfied. I do what I can to make his life as simple and as easy as possible. Plenty of no-strings sex does the trick.
I find that when he’s well taken care of, I feel better and my brain works efficiently. Shit, my whole life just seems easier.
It’s that simple. I love my dick, and loving my dick makes my entire life better.
When my dick perks up in interest, begging for a taste of the woman we’re stranded with in a stuck elevator for two hours, I listen to his dirtiest wishes and ask her out to dinner. But the last thing I expect her to say is that she’s not interested in my dick. She’s just interested in the stuff inside, the stuff that can give her the baby she so desperately wants. No strings attached.
Who am I to say no?
Welcome to the craziest ride my dick’s ever gotten me into.
About the Author:
A New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author of more than two dozen titles, Kendall Ryan has sold over 1.5 million books and her books have been translated into several languages in countries around the world. She's a traditionally published author with Simon & Schuster and Harper Collins UK, as well as an independently published author. Since she first began self-publishing in 2012, she's appeared at #1 on Barnes & Noble and iBooks charts around the world. Her books have also appeared on the New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists more than three dozen times. Ryan has been featured in such publications as USA Today, Newsweek, and InTouch Magazine.
Visit her at: www.kendallryanbooks.com for the latest book news, and fun extras Subscribe to Newletter
Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Goodreads | Amazon Author Page
A hot and hilarious new standalone from New York Times bestseller Kendall Ryan.
We met in a trapped elevator.
Emmett was on his way to work, sophisticated and handsome in his tailored suit and tie. I was on my way to the sperm bank. Awkward, right? At thirty-five, my life hadn’t taken the path I thought it would and I was tired of waiting—I wanted a baby. And I was ready to take matters into my own hands to make it happen. After our ill-fated elevator encounter, Emmett insisted on taking me to dinner—he also insisted on something else—that I ditch my plan involving a turkey baster and let him do the job. He would be my baby daddy. He was a wealthy and powerful CEO with little interest in diapers or playdates. And since he didn’t want kids, I’d be on my own once his bun was in my oven, free to go my own way. But once his baby was inside me, it was like a switch had been flipped, and I got a whole lot more than I ever bargained for.
This full-length standalone contains a hot, swoonworthy hero, lots of playful banter and some hot baby-making ! Enjoy. Amazon | Amazon.UK | Amazon.CA | Amazon.AU | iBooksPrologue Emmett
I love my dick.
That’s a fact.
And I’m not afraid to admit he’s both my best friend and my most trusted advisor. Sure, he’s gotten me into some tight spots over the years—pun very much intended—but that’s what makes life fun, right? I wouldn’t trade our relationship for the world. He stands tall and proud . . . and when he spots something he likes? He bobs with pleasure, begging to get closer.
And as for me? Well, I trust his judgment. Completely. He didn’t bob for the stunning and funny Laura in accounting. I knew there was a reason, and as it turns out, she’s a bit of a klepto. Three hundred seventy-two staplers kind of klepto.
But I’m not a total douchebag, I promise. I’m just a young CEO under immense pressure, so in my downtime, blowing off steam is practically a necessity. It’s my duty to keep my dick happy, and a steady diet of beautiful women keeps us both satisfied. I do what I can to make his life as simple and as easy as possible. Plenty of no-strings sex does the trick.
I find that when he’s well taken care of, I feel better and my brain works efficiently. Shit, my whole life just seems easier.
It’s that simple. I love my dick, and loving my dick makes my entire life better.
When my dick perks up in interest, begging for a taste of the woman we’re stranded with in a stuck elevator for two hours, I listen to his dirtiest wishes and ask her out to dinner. But the last thing I expect her to say is that she’s not interested in my dick. She’s just interested in the stuff inside, the stuff that can give her the baby she so desperately wants. No strings attached.
Who am I to say no?
Welcome to the craziest ride my dick’s ever gotten me into.
About the Author: A New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author of more than two dozen titles, Kendall Ryan has sold over 1.5 million books and her books have been translated into several languages in countries around the world. She's a traditionally published author with Simon & Schuster and Harper Collins UK, as well as an independently published author. Since she first began self-publishing in 2012, she's appeared at #1 on Barnes & Noble and iBooks charts around the world. Her books have also appeared on the New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists more than three dozen times. Ryan has been featured in such publications as USA Today, Newsweek, and InTouch Magazine.
Visit her at: www.kendallryanbooks.com for the latest book news, and fun extras Subscribe to Newletter
Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Goodreads | Amazon Author Page
February 20, 2018
Top Ten Tuesday: Ten Books I'm No Longer Interested In Reading
Top Ten Tuesday is a weekly meme hosted by That Artsy Reader Girl.
Top Ten Tuesday: Top Ten Books I'm No Longer Interested In Reading
This week's TTT is all about books I've purchased with the full intent to read but when the time came to actually read them I'm no longer interested in reading them - or I'm on the fence on whether I actually want to read them or not.
1. Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard
2. Glass Sword by Victoria Aveyard
I have a friend who has bashed the Red Queen series so much and so frequently that I no longer wish to read the books. It's sad because at one point I was really looking forward to them.3. An Ember In The Ashes by Sabaa Tahir
This was a pressure buy. Everyone else was reading it, so what was wrong with me that I had no interest in reading it?? I don't know.. I still have no desire to read it.4. The Affiliate by K.A. Linda
I read the first page of this and it didn't appeal to me. I know other people love it, I just couldn't get past that first page.5. Given to the Sea by Mindy McGinnis
I was excited to read this one when it first came out but I've tried reading a couple other books by this author and hated them, so I'm not sure I'll actually enjoy this one or whether I should pass on it.6. Graceling by Kristin Cashore
Read this book they said. It's better than TOG they said. I'm not sure about that. I've heard rave reviews, I'm just not sure I feel like reading it.7. The Wish Granter by C.J. Redwine
I bought this one because I loved the cover but then I tried reading and disliked The Shadow Queen which makes me skeptical of this one. Was it just that particular book? Is it the author's writing? I'm not sure. I'll maybe give it a try when I whittle my TBR shelf down and have nothing else to read. (Like that will happen).8. The Heir by Kiera Cass
Part of me wants to read this book because it's the next generation of The Selection series, but the other part of me still doesn't like Maxon from the original trilogy and might be irrationally taking it out on his daughter. Bring on The Bachelorette!9. And I Darken by Kiersten White
I just bought this book and Now I Rise because my friend who hates Red Queen was raving about it. I have no idea why I bought these books. I held out for so long thinking I wouldn't like them. But I bought them anyway. I need a bookstagram break.10. Midnight Crossroad by Charlaine Harris
I lost interest in this book after it was turned into a tv show. Why bother reading the book when the show will be probably way different? Plus I wasn't that fond of the Sookie Stackhouse series after book 4.
What are some books that you were excited about when you bought them but then negative reviews or just lack of interest changed your mind about reading it?Let me know in the comments or drop me a link to your own TTT post!
Happy Reluctant Reading Bookdragons!
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