Nia Houston's Blog
April 12, 2018
Book Review: Shades of Death by J.M.Muller
Hunted as a human for his vibrant aura, Daniel held all the lethal promise Narivous looks for in a Velore. His color was both bold and bright, his potential limitless. He had the makings of one of the strongest undead Narivous has ever seen.
Until he’s turned in a forbidden way.
Resurrected from a poison death, he now has a toxic touch and a wail violent enough to eradicate all creatures within screaming distance. He is as his aura promised—dangerously powerful. Almost too much so.
Thorn, Narivous’ tyrannical queen, has outlawed the making of his clan, for good reason—their powers are beyond her control. The toxin roiling beneath his flesh makes him a threat but, worse yet, Thorn sees Daniel as a symbol of rebellion. He represents more than disobedience, he represents a rift in her realm.
And that places Daniel in a precarious position. Thorn will stop at nothing to restore her omnipresent image, and there are only two ways to do that: break Daniel, or destroy him. Daniel will soon be tested—become Thorn’s monster, or suffer death for a second, and final, time.
ReviewI can not express how happy I am with the release of the second installment of Colors of Immorality by J.M Muller "Shades of Death" is just as amazing as the first one. I love Daniels character and inner strength, his transformation into the afterlife is a hard one. I really felt for Daniel and wished that he could just be happy and have Fantasia back. The growth of Polar's and Daniels relationship made me very happy. They have a great connection and are family. A close and necessary bond if they want to survive Thorn. Thorn is the definition of evil! I had my finger crossed that Thorn could redeem herself. but I was wrong. Thorn is a character that shouldn't be messed with. I think Thorn has met her match in Daniel and if she doesn't want a war she would find a way to work with him rather than against him.
The pace of the story is great and refreshing. There is never a boring part of the story and it keeps you on your feet. I can't wait for the next book! I know it's going to be great.
Rate: 5/5
J.M. Muller is a fan of both animals and villains and believes every story needs a little darkness. She has a plethora of skills (okay, that's a lie), but does enjoy writing and creating to the very best of her abilities.
February 28, 2018
What a Highlander's Got To Do By: Sabrina York
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What a Highlander's Got to Do
Coming March 6th from Sabrina York and St. Martin's PressIsobel Dounreay Lochlannach is a fierce and independent Scots lass. She has no intention to marry—to submit to a man—especially not an Englishman.But when she meets a devilish stable lad on the way to London, she can’t help but sneak a kiss with the handsome stranger, sure to never see him again.Nick Wyeth is not a stable lad. He’s Viscount Stirling, and heir to one of the most powerful dukes in the realm. If their indiscretion is discovered, Isobel will be forced to marry him, to succumb to a fate she has always spurned. Nick wants nothing but to call this wild Scottish lass his own, and is determined to show her how an English Viscount can make her swoon, and be his forever in What a Highlander’s Got To Do by New York Times bestselling author Sabrina York. READ AN EXCERPT!
“Milady . . . are you s-sure?” the groom sputtered, even as Isobel launched herself into the saddle. He was a sweet boy, only slightly spotted, and she’d found him delightfully manageable.She smiled down at him in a manner that caused his Adam’s apple to bobble precariously. “I’m verra sure,” she said. “I can handle him. I promise.”“But the mare is much gentler,” he said with a hint of panic in his voice.“I’m certain she is,” Isobel responded with a wink. And then she set her heels to the stallion’s sides and they launched from the stable yard.She leaned over his neck, encouraging him on. “Och, you want this, don’t you, boy?” she whispered into his ear, and he nickered his delight. “Faster then. Faster. Let’s fly!”And oh. They did. And it was glorious.The ride, of course, but also leaving those horrible women behind.Newcastle lacked the exhilarating rocky terrain of the Highlands, but in turn, it had long languid country roads that curved gently through apple orchards, along golden fields, and through fallow land spotted with bright-yellow flowers. There was a babbling brook to her right and the broad blue line of the horizon before her. She had, in that moment, the flight of fancy that she could ride forever.The air was cool and clear, with a hint of lingering loam. And the sun, when she hit it in gentle splashes wandering through the leaves, was a kiss of warmth. They made their own breeze, she and Lord Willouby’s stallion. It caressed her face and tangled in her hair and it was magnificent.Much better than tea with the local ladies.It was, in fact, perfection.Until a thundering sound disrupted her peace.Hoofbeats from behind, intruding on the splendid rhythm she and the stallion had created.She glanced over her shoulder and frowned. Another stallion pounded after them, with a dark-haired stranger urging him on. She’d heard about highwaymen in these parts, veterans from the war and such, who had turned to crime. And while she’d thought the prospect of such a thing wildly romantic when reading it in a novel, she did not, in truth, care to be robbed or manhandled by such a man.She tapped her mount’s side with her heels and urged him to go faster, even as a thrill of excitement sizzled through her. She was certain she could outride her pursuer, but how delicious would it be to confront an actual highwayman and have a story to tell Catriona?Not that the two of them tried to outdo each other in their tales, but they did.Isobel caught her breath and focused on the road ahead. It curved out of sight behind a large hill. Not knowing the terrain, she knew she had to slow, lest she injure her horse, and that was her downfall.He caught her then, as she rounded the curve and, to her shock and dismay, wrapped a strong arm around her waist and lifted her bodily from her saddle and onto his lap.She had one stunning impression of hard hot man.He was slick with sweat from the mad ride, as was she, but on his skin, it rose in a thick musk that teased her nostrils and made her belly lurch.Surely it was not an attractive scent.She refused to believe this to be so.At the same time, she screeched her outrage and wiggled to be free, which had a disturbing result.He tightened his hold on her.Dear God, he was strong, this beastly highwayman.“Hold still,” he snapped. “You’ll fall.”Of course she wanted to fall. She wanted to hit the ground before he did so she had time to retrieve her blade from the scabbard on her thigh before he caught her again.What a pity he didn’t let her fall. He held her even tighter—she could barely breathe—and pulled on the reins to slow his mount.Before she had time to react, he’d slipped off and was helping her down.Helping her down.No one had ever helped her down. She’d never allowed it.The man was, in a word, infuriating.Once her feet hit the ground she elbowed him in the stomach and whirled away. She glared at him, though he was unaware of this, doubled over and wheezing as he was. This gave her time to free her blade and point it in his general direction, so when he recovered himself, when he stood and stared at her, it was, indeed, a fearsome sight he saw.She had no earthly idea why he laughed.No earthly idea why her first glimpse of him—this bandit who had just impugned her person—made her heart stop.Oh, he was handsome, for sure, with dark eyes and rampant black curls. There was a birthmark just above his lip that gave him a rakish air, and the hint of a scar bisected his left eyebrow. But his smile was white and broad and caused an irksome raft of dimples to erupt on his cheek.He wore the stained, frayed clothes of a workingman, with boots caked in mud.And good lord, he was tall. Tall and muscled and exquisitely formed.She wasn’t sure which of his perfections annoyed her more.And then he spoke, and she knew for certain. It was his voice, a mellifluous tenor, crisp with British superiority and the hint of a laugh.She abhorred being laughed at.“Well,” he said, nodding at her knife—which, in retrospect, seemed far too small. “Aren’t you the fierce one?”It took a moment to stifle her growl. No doubt it would give him even more to mock. “What do you expect? You chased me. Grabbed me from behind. Manhandled me.”His eyes widened and he stared at her for a moment, then his grin widened. “You’re a Scot.” Not a question.“You’re bluidy right I am, so don’t try anything. You’ll not be the first man I’ve skewered.”A laugh. “I don’t doubt it for a moment.” He continued studying her, though, in a way that made her skin prickle.“What?” she said, breaking the silence against her will.He shrugged, some lazy careless gesture that made her want to smack his supercilious face. “I just thought all Scottish lasses had red hair, is all.”“Did you now?” Did he want to see red? Well, it danced before her eyes.He must have realized his comment incensed her, because he laughed again. “Doona skewer me, lass,” he said in a perfect brogue. For some reason, that made her even angrier.“Why no’? Are you no’ a highwayman, come to rob me?”“A highwayman?” His beautiful perfect brows lifted in mock surprise. He had the audacity to bow before her. “My lady, I’ve just saved your life.”She gaped at him. She was aware she was gaping, like a landed cod, but could not manage to form words.He chuckled and tucked two long fingers under her chin and gently closed it. Then he hooked her arm in his and led her farther along the track, where Lord Willouby’s stallion stood alongside the road ripping out tufts of grass. “There,” he said, waving at a stone bridge just beyond the hill, arching over the river.Isobel yanked her arm away. “There, what?”“Go look.”He followed her as she made her way to the bridge and then stood next to her, rocking back on his heels, as she studied the structure. Or what remained of it.The stone pilings were all in place, as were the abutments on either end, but as for the rest of it . . .“The flood last month took out all the timbers,” he said in a far-too-smug tone.She crossed her arms and studied the distance from one bank to the other. “No doubt we could have made the jump.”He turned to stare at her for a long moment, and then he laughed again.She was becoming quite tired of his laugh, and at the same time craving it. That was probably why—though she would deny it until the day she died—her lips quirked. Just a tad, but it was enough encouragement for him, apparently.“I believe you owe me,” he said with a wicked smile.“I owe you?” She turned and tipped up her chin and stared into his eyes—really stared into them—for the first time. They were a lovely warm brown with flecks of gold, and they were amused. There was something else in there, a certain heat, that she preferred to ignore.“I did save your life.”“I believe I made it clear, I could have made the jump.”“I don’t doubt that for a moment, but your stallion?” He glanced at the steed, who was trying to lip an apple from the tree. “That is questionable.”“Perhaps.” She sighed. “So what reward would you ask?”“First, that you put away your blade.”“First? How many rewards are you asking for?” Was she enjoying this . . . sparring? Why yes. She was.He was terribly handsome, and not a highwayman after all. Probably, judging from his clothes, a stable lad. Or a farmer’s son.He shrugged. “How much do you value your life?”“What kind of question is that?”“Just as it is. I would like to ask for a kiss . . .” Her heart skipped. “But to be frank, I prefer not to kiss lasses with knives in their fists. You know, just in case.”She straightened up and peered down her nose at him—no easy feat, as he was much taller than she. “I doona kiss just anyone.”He splayed his hand over his heart. “I am gratified to hear it.”“Certainly not . . .” She waved at his person. “Stable hands.”He grinned. “Is that what I am then?”She pointed to his boots. “Do tell me that is mud.”“What else could it be?” His playful tone made clear it might well be something else one might find in a stable.“And look at your hands.”He did. She did, too. They were large, well made, with long fingers. There was mud there, too, beneath his fingernails. One would hope.“I can wash them in the river, if you like.” Again, that charming smile.She smiled back, but with a hint of restraint. It was an odd feeling cloaking her shoulders. Restraint was hardly her forte. “Please do.”He nodded and she tried to ignore the curl that flopped onto his forehead as he turned and trotted down the bank.With a sigh of regret, she took the reins of Lord Willouby’s stallion and mounted. Best be gone before he returned or she might be tempted to give him what he wanted.She wanted it, too, which was stupid.She was here for a few weeks while she waited for the various arms of her family to collect here, and then they would make the long trip down to London for a miserable Season. There was no time for a romance, and certainly not one with a farm boy. Not even one as handsome as he.Though she had to admit, she was tempted.She kicked the stallion into motion and began riding back the way she’d come.What a pity.She would have liked a kiss. Just one. She would have liked to know if he tasted as delicious as she imagined. She would have liked to have a story to tell Catriona, one that didn’t end with her plunging to her death into the River of the Broken Bridge.She should have known he would follow.She heard the hoofbeats behind her and urged her stallion on, bending low on his neck and whispering encouragement.Her heart pounded.She knew he would catch her.He had before.But still, she persevered.She had no idea why she smiled. No idea why her soul sang.No idea why, when he caught her, swooping her up into his arms and onto his lap, she laughed.No idea why she smiled as he cupped her face with his still-damp hands and stared at her lips like a starving man.No idea why, when his lips touched hers, fragrant and soft and oh-so-sweet, she sank into the kiss with all she had.Or perhaps she did have an idea after all.
Order or wish list now: https://www.amazon.com/What-Highlande...-
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What a Highlander's Got to Do
Coming March 6th from Sabrina York and St. Martin's PressIsobel Dounreay Lochlannach is a fierce and independent Scots lass. She has no intention to marry—to submit to a man—especially not an Englishman.But when she meets a devilish stable lad on the way to London, she can’t help but sneak a kiss with the handsome stranger, sure to never see him again.Nick Wyeth is not a stable lad. He’s Viscount Stirling, and heir to one of the most powerful dukes in the realm. If their indiscretion is discovered, Isobel will be forced to marry him, to succumb to a fate she has always spurned. Nick wants nothing but to call this wild Scottish lass his own, and is determined to show her how an English Viscount can make her swoon, and be his forever in What a Highlander’s Got To Do by New York Times bestselling author Sabrina York. READ AN EXCERPT!
“Milady . . . are you s-sure?” the groom sputtered, even as Isobel launched herself into the saddle. He was a sweet boy, only slightly spotted, and she’d found him delightfully manageable.She smiled down at him in a manner that caused his Adam’s apple to bobble precariously. “I’m verra sure,” she said. “I can handle him. I promise.”“But the mare is much gentler,” he said with a hint of panic in his voice.“I’m certain she is,” Isobel responded with a wink. And then she set her heels to the stallion’s sides and they launched from the stable yard.She leaned over his neck, encouraging him on. “Och, you want this, don’t you, boy?” she whispered into his ear, and he nickered his delight. “Faster then. Faster. Let’s fly!”And oh. They did. And it was glorious.The ride, of course, but also leaving those horrible women behind.Newcastle lacked the exhilarating rocky terrain of the Highlands, but in turn, it had long languid country roads that curved gently through apple orchards, along golden fields, and through fallow land spotted with bright-yellow flowers. There was a babbling brook to her right and the broad blue line of the horizon before her. She had, in that moment, the flight of fancy that she could ride forever.The air was cool and clear, with a hint of lingering loam. And the sun, when she hit it in gentle splashes wandering through the leaves, was a kiss of warmth. They made their own breeze, she and Lord Willouby’s stallion. It caressed her face and tangled in her hair and it was magnificent.Much better than tea with the local ladies.It was, in fact, perfection.Until a thundering sound disrupted her peace.Hoofbeats from behind, intruding on the splendid rhythm she and the stallion had created.She glanced over her shoulder and frowned. Another stallion pounded after them, with a dark-haired stranger urging him on. She’d heard about highwaymen in these parts, veterans from the war and such, who had turned to crime. And while she’d thought the prospect of such a thing wildly romantic when reading it in a novel, she did not, in truth, care to be robbed or manhandled by such a man.She tapped her mount’s side with her heels and urged him to go faster, even as a thrill of excitement sizzled through her. She was certain she could outride her pursuer, but how delicious would it be to confront an actual highwayman and have a story to tell Catriona?Not that the two of them tried to outdo each other in their tales, but they did.Isobel caught her breath and focused on the road ahead. It curved out of sight behind a large hill. Not knowing the terrain, she knew she had to slow, lest she injure her horse, and that was her downfall.He caught her then, as she rounded the curve and, to her shock and dismay, wrapped a strong arm around her waist and lifted her bodily from her saddle and onto his lap.She had one stunning impression of hard hot man.He was slick with sweat from the mad ride, as was she, but on his skin, it rose in a thick musk that teased her nostrils and made her belly lurch.Surely it was not an attractive scent.She refused to believe this to be so.At the same time, she screeched her outrage and wiggled to be free, which had a disturbing result.He tightened his hold on her.Dear God, he was strong, this beastly highwayman.“Hold still,” he snapped. “You’ll fall.”Of course she wanted to fall. She wanted to hit the ground before he did so she had time to retrieve her blade from the scabbard on her thigh before he caught her again.What a pity he didn’t let her fall. He held her even tighter—she could barely breathe—and pulled on the reins to slow his mount.Before she had time to react, he’d slipped off and was helping her down.Helping her down.No one had ever helped her down. She’d never allowed it.The man was, in a word, infuriating.Once her feet hit the ground she elbowed him in the stomach and whirled away. She glared at him, though he was unaware of this, doubled over and wheezing as he was. This gave her time to free her blade and point it in his general direction, so when he recovered himself, when he stood and stared at her, it was, indeed, a fearsome sight he saw.She had no earthly idea why he laughed.No earthly idea why her first glimpse of him—this bandit who had just impugned her person—made her heart stop.Oh, he was handsome, for sure, with dark eyes and rampant black curls. There was a birthmark just above his lip that gave him a rakish air, and the hint of a scar bisected his left eyebrow. But his smile was white and broad and caused an irksome raft of dimples to erupt on his cheek.He wore the stained, frayed clothes of a workingman, with boots caked in mud.And good lord, he was tall. Tall and muscled and exquisitely formed.She wasn’t sure which of his perfections annoyed her more.And then he spoke, and she knew for certain. It was his voice, a mellifluous tenor, crisp with British superiority and the hint of a laugh.She abhorred being laughed at.“Well,” he said, nodding at her knife—which, in retrospect, seemed far too small. “Aren’t you the fierce one?”It took a moment to stifle her growl. No doubt it would give him even more to mock. “What do you expect? You chased me. Grabbed me from behind. Manhandled me.”His eyes widened and he stared at her for a moment, then his grin widened. “You’re a Scot.” Not a question.“You’re bluidy right I am, so don’t try anything. You’ll not be the first man I’ve skewered.”A laugh. “I don’t doubt it for a moment.” He continued studying her, though, in a way that made her skin prickle.“What?” she said, breaking the silence against her will.He shrugged, some lazy careless gesture that made her want to smack his supercilious face. “I just thought all Scottish lasses had red hair, is all.”“Did you now?” Did he want to see red? Well, it danced before her eyes.He must have realized his comment incensed her, because he laughed again. “Doona skewer me, lass,” he said in a perfect brogue. For some reason, that made her even angrier.“Why no’? Are you no’ a highwayman, come to rob me?”“A highwayman?” His beautiful perfect brows lifted in mock surprise. He had the audacity to bow before her. “My lady, I’ve just saved your life.”She gaped at him. She was aware she was gaping, like a landed cod, but could not manage to form words.He chuckled and tucked two long fingers under her chin and gently closed it. Then he hooked her arm in his and led her farther along the track, where Lord Willouby’s stallion stood alongside the road ripping out tufts of grass. “There,” he said, waving at a stone bridge just beyond the hill, arching over the river.Isobel yanked her arm away. “There, what?”“Go look.”He followed her as she made her way to the bridge and then stood next to her, rocking back on his heels, as she studied the structure. Or what remained of it.The stone pilings were all in place, as were the abutments on either end, but as for the rest of it . . .“The flood last month took out all the timbers,” he said in a far-too-smug tone.She crossed her arms and studied the distance from one bank to the other. “No doubt we could have made the jump.”He turned to stare at her for a long moment, and then he laughed again.She was becoming quite tired of his laugh, and at the same time craving it. That was probably why—though she would deny it until the day she died—her lips quirked. Just a tad, but it was enough encouragement for him, apparently.“I believe you owe me,” he said with a wicked smile.“I owe you?” She turned and tipped up her chin and stared into his eyes—really stared into them—for the first time. They were a lovely warm brown with flecks of gold, and they were amused. There was something else in there, a certain heat, that she preferred to ignore.“I did save your life.”“I believe I made it clear, I could have made the jump.”“I don’t doubt that for a moment, but your stallion?” He glanced at the steed, who was trying to lip an apple from the tree. “That is questionable.”“Perhaps.” She sighed. “So what reward would you ask?”“First, that you put away your blade.”“First? How many rewards are you asking for?” Was she enjoying this . . . sparring? Why yes. She was.He was terribly handsome, and not a highwayman after all. Probably, judging from his clothes, a stable lad. Or a farmer’s son.He shrugged. “How much do you value your life?”“What kind of question is that?”“Just as it is. I would like to ask for a kiss . . .” Her heart skipped. “But to be frank, I prefer not to kiss lasses with knives in their fists. You know, just in case.”She straightened up and peered down her nose at him—no easy feat, as he was much taller than she. “I doona kiss just anyone.”He splayed his hand over his heart. “I am gratified to hear it.”“Certainly not . . .” She waved at his person. “Stable hands.”He grinned. “Is that what I am then?”She pointed to his boots. “Do tell me that is mud.”“What else could it be?” His playful tone made clear it might well be something else one might find in a stable.“And look at your hands.”He did. She did, too. They were large, well made, with long fingers. There was mud there, too, beneath his fingernails. One would hope.“I can wash them in the river, if you like.” Again, that charming smile.She smiled back, but with a hint of restraint. It was an odd feeling cloaking her shoulders. Restraint was hardly her forte. “Please do.”He nodded and she tried to ignore the curl that flopped onto his forehead as he turned and trotted down the bank.With a sigh of regret, she took the reins of Lord Willouby’s stallion and mounted. Best be gone before he returned or she might be tempted to give him what he wanted.She wanted it, too, which was stupid.She was here for a few weeks while she waited for the various arms of her family to collect here, and then they would make the long trip down to London for a miserable Season. There was no time for a romance, and certainly not one with a farm boy. Not even one as handsome as he.Though she had to admit, she was tempted.She kicked the stallion into motion and began riding back the way she’d come.What a pity.She would have liked a kiss. Just one. She would have liked to know if he tasted as delicious as she imagined. She would have liked to have a story to tell Catriona, one that didn’t end with her plunging to her death into the River of the Broken Bridge.She should have known he would follow.She heard the hoofbeats behind her and urged her stallion on, bending low on his neck and whispering encouragement.Her heart pounded.She knew he would catch her.He had before.But still, she persevered.She had no idea why she smiled. No idea why her soul sang.No idea why, when he caught her, swooping her up into his arms and onto his lap, she laughed.No idea why she smiled as he cupped her face with his still-damp hands and stared at her lips like a starving man.No idea why, when his lips touched hers, fragrant and soft and oh-so-sweet, she sank into the kiss with all she had.Or perhaps she did have an idea after all.
Order or wish list now: https://www.amazon.com/What-Highlande...-
January 26, 2018
#BlogTour | #Review RIGHT KISS WRONG GUY by Natalie Decker #Giveaway
#NewReviewRight Kiss Wrong Guy by Natalie Decker!
Title: Right Kiss Wrong GuyAuthor: Natalie DeckerSeries: Offsides #2
Publication Date: January 23, 2018
Publisher: Swoon Romance
You'd think a girl with the most romantic name in the world would have her pick of boyfriends.
But Valentine's Day sucks when you're single. Just ask Juliet Valentine, whose last name happens to also be the name of the most dreaded made-up holiday ever.
A romantic at heart, this year is especially hard on Juliet. Her sister, Layla, is in a new relationship, her mom's match-making business is doing great, and her school's new fundraiser is "Love-Grams."
Juliet's miserable, a little jealous, and lonely.
Quarterback Jared Black is the most popular guy in school. A star athlete, Jared tops the most-eligible bachelor list year after year. But to Juliet Valentine, he's all but invisible. She isn't impressed.
Jared's never had to work hard to get the attention of a girl before. Valentine's Day is fast approaching, and he's determined to ask Juliet out. After all, if Tyler can win over Layla, Jared ought to have a shot with Layla's sister.
Unlike Tyler and Layla, charm, flattery and good looks won't work on Juliet. So with the V-Day dance coming up, Jared uses the school’s Love-Grams to let Juliet know how he feels. Should be simple enough, right?
Wrong. Each attempt ends up either in the trash or thrown in someone's face. Juliet won't play his game.
Now, without a date to the dance Jared realizes it’s going to take a Hail Mary to win the girl of his dreams.
#MyThoughts
Right Kiss Wrong Guy is the second book in the Offsides series by Natalie Decker. And both books can be read as standalone. So it does not matter which one you read first.
Juliet is introduced in the first book, so we kind of know why her attitude about relationships, boys and Valentine's Day. However, Natalie gives a big recap about it in this one. Thus the book being standalone.
So... Juliet dislikes Valentine's Day and football players are not her favorite people right now. Let's blame her ex-boyfriend for the last one. She is very funny, smart and straightforward when she wants to be. But she is also a little bad/frustrating when it comes to turn someone down --without being really sure who that person is. But I liked her anyways.
Jared is a cutie pie. He was very persistent, but he also knew when was the right time to say stop, I am a human being and I need some respect and consideration about my feelings, too. He was amazing, I really liked reading about how he felt about certain things along the book. And I am sure you will appreciate it too.
It may seem that both characters are not alike or something. However, as the time goes, it is easier to understand why they work together really good.
Right Kiss Wrong Guy is fascinating. And I enjoyed reading it. So I recommend it to everyone but specially to those who are looking for a lovely YA romance!
Book: +4 valentine stars! Follow the #BlogTour HERE!Buy: Amazon+Goodreads
Other books in the series
Natalie Decker is the Author of Rival Love. She loves oceans, sunsets, sand between her toes, and carefree days. Her imagination is always going, which some find odd. But she believes in seeing the world in a different light at all times. Her first passion for writing started at age twelve when she had to write a poem for English class. However, seventh grade wasn’t her favorite time and books were her source of comfort. She took all college prep classes in High school, and attended the University of Akron. Although she studied Mathematics she never lost her passion for writing or her comfort in books. She’s a mean cook in the kitchen, loves her family and friends and her awesome dog infinity times infinity. If she’s not writing, reading, traveling, hanging out with her family and friends, then she’s off having an adventure. Because Natalie believes in a saying: Your life is your own journey, so make it amazing!Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads#Giveawaya Rafflecopter giveaway
January 18, 2018
#BlogTour | #Review EFFORTLESS by Bethany-Kris #Giveaway #Excerpt
#NewReviewEffortless by Bethany-Kris
Title: Effortless
Author: Bethany-KrisSeries: A Legacy Novel
Publication Date: January 15, 2018Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Erotic, Romance, Organized Crime
Camilla Donati doesn’t do relationships—it’s just not her thing. She wants a fun time, not a long time. She might be exactly what Tommaso Rossi needs to make his vacation from the responsibilities as a Capo, a break worth taking.
He didn’t expect to find a woman like her with a mind full of filth.
She didn’t expect a man who would shatter all of her rules with only a grin.
Chicago keeps calling Tommaso home, and further out of reach from the one thing he wants more than ever. Camilla’s restless heart keeps getting in the way even when it’s stuck between what is, and what could be.
This should have been easy.
It didn’t have to be messy.
Falling in love is effortless.
It’s people who make it hard.
Effortless: A Legacy Novel is a standalone contemporary erotic romance.
#MyThoughts
Bethany-Kris' books always have a very passionate couple. Who go through hell together, and then stay together. I think most of her books have a lot of blood, resentment, hate, fights and love. But they have like the perfect dose of each one. So you do not really feel overwhelmed with all of it.
And, if you have ever read her books, you know that she is always using characters from other families/series in (at least) one book per series. So, of course, this time around it is not different. Even more if we consider that Effortless is a sequel for the Donati Bloodlines (Camilla) and The Chicago War (Tommaso).
Anyway, all books are different. Effortless is not based around a big war or dispute. It is more about facing your own demons and insecurities. It does have Bethany-Kris distinctive mark. But not too deep as the others.
Camilla/Cam is the Donati principessa. She has always had a lot of freedom when it comes to take decisions that may make a big difference in her life. Thus her free-spirit persona. Plus, she does not really like to be attached to someone or to depend on someone else. She is more of a once-is-enough kind of girl.
Tommaso/Tom's life has been marked for trying to follow into his dad's footsteps to become worthy in order to become a good boss of the Rossi famiglia when the time comes. But lately, it seems he is not one-hundred-percent focused in his job as a Capo and the Rossi principe. Perhaps, it is because he is now understanding that life is not only duty and legacy.
Both characters have very similar personalities. And from the very first moment, they are drawn to each other. They do not deny their attraction and they certainly do something to satisfy their deepest desires. However, neither he nor she really expected to be left wanting more. And that attraction seems to be growing with every passing moment. But Cam is determined to do what she thinks she wants instead of what she really wants. On the hand, Tom is ready to change her mind about relationships and love. But it is harder when just one party is willing to follow their heart.
I loved Effortless . It is definitely lighter than any of her other works. But it is so exciting and compelling that you will read it in one sitting. Highly recommended! ! And you do not need to read the Donati Bloodlines or The Chicago War. But I recommend those books too.
Book: +5 love-is-effortless stars!
Follow the #BlogTour HERE!Buy: Amazon US | Amazon AUS | Amazon UK | Amazon CA | B&N | iBooks | Kobo+Goodreads#Excerpt
“AT LEAST wait until I’m not looking to eye-fuck my sister,” Cross said under his breath. “That’s the respectful thing to do, Tommaso.”
Tom heard Cross’s warning loud and clear, but it still took him a couple of extra seconds to tear his gaze away from the platinum and purple-headed blonde across the room. He knew Cross had a younger sister—nineteen or twenty, somewhere around there—Camilla. Although, he had never met the girl.
No, not a girl.
Definitely a young woman.
Very much woman.
All woman.
Tom’s gaze darted back to the woman in question as Cross stopped to chat with somebody. He figured his friend’s attention was distracted enough that he wouldn’t notice or mind Tom sneaking one more peek at Camilla Donati.
Petite in stature, she would barely reach his chin, and that was with her heels on. And speaking of the heels … Those damn things had spikes all the way around the straps, and they looked made for some kind of fun and sin.
There were at least another thirty women in the room. All dressed in some variance of skirts, dresses, or jeans that hugged their asses tight enough to make Tom wonder how the fuck they could even breathe.
Yet, something about Camilla kept his gaze drifting in her direction.
Edgy makeup, with crystals placed along the cut line of her eyebrows. Red lipstick so dark it was bordering on a black crimson. Round, large brown eyes that someone else might have mistaken as innocence staring back from them.
He didn’t see innocence at all.
Not the way she was looking at him.
Pretty wasn’t the right word for her delicate features and naturally pouty lips. Pretty made him think of fragile lace and inexperience.
Alluring was more like it, with just a touch of sex to color her up.
Like a rose.
Attractive, silky smooth, interesting and beautiful. Just enough sexy to make it impossible to resist touching it. Hidden dangers in the form of thorns ready to injure and scar.
“She single?” Tom asked when Cross finished with his conversation with the stranger. He couldn’t even help it. The words came out before he could stop them. “Your sister, I mean. Is she?”
“Kind of makes you look like a lovesick fucker when you keep staring, Tom.”
“Your point?”
Cross sighed, and scrubbed a hand down his jaw. “Cam doesn’t know what a relationship is, so yeah, she’s … available.”
“What’s that mean?”
“Not my business, that’s what.”
Bethany-Kris is a Canadian author, lover of much, and mother to four young sons, one cat, and two dogs. A small town in Eastern Canada where she was born and raised is where she has always called home. With her boys under her feet, snuggling cat, barking dogs, and a hubby calling over his shoulder, she is nearly always writing something … when she can find the time.To keep up-to-date with new releases from Bethany-Kris, sign up to her New Release Newsletter here: http://eepurl.com/bf9lzD
Website • Blog • Twitter • Facebook • Goodreads • Pinterest • Mailing List • Amazon Author Page
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January 12, 2018
#BlogTour | #Review: LOVE BETWEEN ENEMIES by Molly E. Lee #Giveaway #Excerp
#NewReviewLove Between Enemies by Molly E. Lee xo
Title: Love Between Enemies
Author: Molly E. Lee
Series: Grad Night #2
Publication Date: January 8, 2018Publisher: Entangled: Crush
Zoey Handler is ready to put an end to her decade-long rivalry with Gordon Meyers. They’ve traded top spot between valedictorian and salutatorian for years, but all that’s over now. Right? But after a crazy graduation speech prank gets out of hand, suddenly their rivalry turns into all-out war. Time to make peace with a little friendly payback.
Step one? Make him believe they’re now friends.
Step two? Show him the time of his life at an epic graduation party.
Step three? Don’t fall for his tricks.
Step four? Absolutely, positively, do not kiss him again.
So what if he’s cute? (Okay, hot.) So what if he’s charming? (Heaven help her, tempting.) So what if he apologizes? (That has to be fake.) She knows the real Gordon. And no matter how much her heart begs her to stop, there’s no turning back.
Disclaimer: This Entangled Teen Crush book contains one epic party, complete with every high-schoolers-gone-bad shenanigan, and two rivals who discover maybe they could be something much more…if only they’d stop fighting long enough to notice it.
#MyThoughts
I think I have read a handful of books where they become friends after having hated each other for so long. However, I do not think I have fulfilled my share of this kind of plot. Because I still like to read it. Anyway, this time in Love Between Enemies is hard to say that the change of status is a product of life and its many twists. It is more like you-will-pay-for-what-you-did-to-me kind of book. Hence the hard feelings of one character. But it is still amazing to read how they went from totally-and-absolutely hating each other's presence to I-cannot-have-enough-of-you-although-I-do-not-want-to.
But we all know there are things we cannot stop from happening as much as we wish we could. So, of course, Zoey did not see it coming when she wanted revenge at all costs. Plus, having an idea of how someone is like... is far more different than truly knowing that person. Hence she was surprised with everything. And then, there is Gordon. Although we cannot say he was the victim of this story---because he did things, and maybe he might regret them but he knew they could have an impact. However, it just proves to us that they are more like two peas in a pod than they know.
At the end of the day, Love Between Enemies is a cute and lovely YA romance book with its right share of teen drama and denied love. Highly recommended!
Book: +4 love-wins stars! Follow the #BlogTour HERE!Buy:
#Excerpt
“Help me out here,” Gordon whispered, his cheek brushing against mine as he spoke in my ear. “I’m blanking.”
The breath stalled in my lungs with how close he was, and how his soft words sent warm chills across my skin. The notion that he thought I was someone he could ask advice from both thrilled me and made my nerves twist. Or that could be because I could smell him again, which seemed to have a direct line to my crazy-button. Because only an insane girl would be wishing her enemy would keep whispering in her ear like that—he could recite the alphabet for all I cared, as long as he kept talking.
“Um,” I said, stumbling over my own words. New experience. Not exactly fun. My eyes darted over the faces in the room—completely oblivious to the battle raging inside me, the one that screamed to give in to what I was feeling for Gordon, and the other side reminding me how he’d slayed me this morning. I finally spotted the quarter on the table and remembered how to use my brain. “Any time someone says quarter, they have to drink.”
Gordon smiled and I felt it in my bones. “Thanks,” he said. “What she said.” He spoke a little louder as he sat up straight again, and I instantly craved the warmth of his nearness. I’m in so much trouble.
I focused solely on the game and on the plan, but my body…my heart…wanted what I couldn’t have.
#OtherBooksInTheSeries
+Goodreads
Molly E. Lee is an author best known for her debut novel EDGE OF CHAOS, and as a mentor at Pitch Wars - a program which connects promising writers to established authors in the community. Molly writes New Adult and Young Adult contemporary featuring strong female heroines who are unafraid to challenge their male counterparts, yet still vulnerable enough to have love sneak up on them. In addition to being a military spouse and mother of two + one stubborn English Bulldog, Molly loves watching storms from her back porch at her Midwest home, and digging for treasures in antique stores.Website • Twitter • Facebook • Goodreads
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January 8, 2018
#BlogTour | #Review: BREAKING THE ICE by Julie Cross #Giveaway #Excerpt
#NewReviewBreaking the Ice by Julie Cross xo
Title: Breaking the Ice
Author: Julie Cross
Series: Juniper Falls #2
Publication Date: December 26, 2017Publisher: Entangled Teen
The second book in the Juniper Falls series from NY Times and USA TODAY bestselling author Julie Cross, perfect for fans of Miranda Kenneally and Abbi Glines.
Haley Stevenson seems like she’s got it all together: cheer captain, “Princess” of Juniper Falls, and voted Most Likely to Get Things Done. But below the surface, she’s struggling with a less-than-stellar GPA and still reeling from the loss of her first love. Repeating her Civics class during summer school is her chance to Get Things Done, not angst over boys. In fact, she’s sworn them off completely until college.
Fletcher Scott is happy to keep a low profile around Juniper Falls. He’s always been the invisible guy, warming the bench on the hockey team and moonlighting at a job that would make his grandma blush. Suddenly, though, he’s finding he wants more: more time on the ice, and more time with his infuriatingly perfect summer-school study partner.
But leave it to a girl who requires perfection to shake up a boy who’s ready to break all the rules.
#MyThoughts
Breaking the Ice is the second book in the Juniper Falls series by Julie Cross. Although we are introduced to these characters in the first book, Off the Ice, both books can be read as stand alones. However, I recommend you to read Off the Ice because it is a great book.
Breaking the Ice is a YA romance with many twists and scenes that will have you wanting more. And it helps a lot that both main characters --Fletcher and Haley-- are very appealing, funny, and cute when they have to be.
Haley. I may say that at first I was not very interested in her character in the first book because she kind of was the antagonist of it. However, as time passed, I think she evolved/was presented as a better character (or someone I could really enjoy reading). She is the captain of the cheerleaders along with other things --she is very outgoing and she helps a lot around her community. But! She seems to lack in school skills. Thus she is doing summer school. And throughout the book we can see that she is very persuasive, absent-minded, friendly, and determined.
Fletcher. I did not understand him at first because I focused on how Haley saw him. But when I started to pay more attention to his POW, I could get to really know him for what he was and not for what others thought he was (did you get it?). So I can assure you that I loved him. He is definitely a mystery for everybody. He is also cute, smart, very careful and not really sociable but very friendly.
Haley and Fletcher are two opposite poles whose attraction is inevitable. And overall, Breaking the Ice comes to be an incredible, cute and enjoyable book romance. We see them (H&F) achieve their goals, overcome their fears, and enjoy their lives. So, I absolutely recommend this series.
Book: +4.5 breaking stars!
Follow the #BlogTour HERE!Buy: +Goodreads
#Excerpt
“I’ll give you two choices…one, you can tell me the truth about that little job of yours and I’ll leave you alone with your hangover. Or two, you can clean yourself up and get your head together and do some work with me, and I’ll forget about the panties and the money and the lipstick…”
I doubt she’ll forget anything, but I have to hold out hope at least. I glance warily at her. “Option two. Definitely two.”
The smirk on Haley’s face is gonna be forever etched into my memory. She knew I’d pick option two.
* * *
OTHER BOOKS IN THIS SERIES!
+Goodreads
Julie Cross is a NYT and USA Today bestselling author of New Adult and Young Adult fiction, including the Tempest series, a young adult science fiction trilogy which includes Tempest, Vortex, Timestorm (St. Martin's Press). She's also the author of Letters to Nowhere series, Whatever Life Throws at You, Third Degree, Halfway Perfect, Chasing Truth, Off the Ice and many more to come! Julie Cross was a longtime resident of central Illinois but has recently moved her entire family across the country to continue her academic studies at Stanford University.Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads
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January 5, 2018
Reject High Series by: Brian Thompson
-I was given these copies in exchange for an honest review-
![Reject High (Reject High: A Young Adult Science Fiction Series Book 1) by [Thompson, Brian]](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/hostedimages/1520812694i/25198904.jpg)
After his latest fight, Jason Champion is sent to a rundown alternative school, nicknamed “Reject High.” Fine by him, except a girl named Cherish died there under strange circumstances. At first glance, it's a suicide. But the girl's best friend, a Goth with an attitude named Rhapsody, suspects something different at work.
. .One day during detention, Rhapsody shows Jason a crystal that turns her invisible. He tries one on and he jumps over a city.
Their classmates, Sasha and Selby, see Jason and Rhapsody in action and receive crystals of their own. They keep a low profile until Jason discovers they are being studied by people they trust.
With eleven days until Reject High is destroyed, Jason and his friends must dodge their pursuers, solve the mystery of Cherish’s death, and save their power source from falling into the wrong hands.
The first installment in a young adult fantasy series, Reject High combines engaging characters inside of a page-turning adventure. Equal parts sci-fi, fantasy, and action-adventure Reject High is written from the perspective of Jason Champion, a 15-year old teenager with rage blackouts and a penchant for getting in trouble,
![Sophomore Freak (Reject High: A Young Adult Science Fiction Series Book 2) by [Thompson, Brian]](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/hostedimages/1520812694i/25198905.jpg)
NORMAL IS OVER
The school year ending with Reject High's destruction was enough for Jason Champion. Summer break meant lots of time to split between his girlfriend Sasha and best friend Rhapsody.
That is until predictions of a solar storm arrive, one, unlike the earth, has ever seen. Sasha tells Jason the sun's rays may affect his invulnerability and strength, while a mysterious new enemy is possessed with the belief that whoever absorbs the radiation will become immortal.
With no other options and their enemies drawing closer to their goal, Jason and his friends join forces with the “Collective,” a group that has guarded the origin of their power for a century. Its members think the storm will cause an explosion killing millions – a price none of them are willing to pay.![Forgotten (Reject High: A Young Adult Science Fiction Series Book 3) by [Thompson, Brian]](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/hostedimages/1520812694i/25198906.jpg)
A NEW NORMAL
Months after absorbing a nuclear explosion, Jason Champion is recuperating in a hospital when he is attacked by a shape-shifter with an agenda. She wants to harvest Jason’s radioactive blood to keep his enemy, David King, alive. King had almost died at Jason’s hands, but he now wants revenge.
Following a narrow escape, Jason is joined by his new girlfriend Rhapsody, his ex Sasha, and a new friend, Esteban. While the provenance emerald, scarlet emerald, goshenite, heliodor, and morganite crystals that grant them mysterious powers are safe, there is a new threat.
The most sought-after version, aquamarine, has been found. Its wearer can raise the dead.
Now in possession of the aquamarine, Jason is faced with decisions: deliver it to King in 72 hours or let everyone he cares about pay the price. He and his friends race across the nation to do the impossible: keep those close to him safe while defending the aquamarine before time runs out.![Champion Immortal (Reject High: A Young Adult Science Fiction Series Book 4) by [Thompson, Brian]](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/hostedimages/1520812694i/25198907.jpg)
For eighteen months after saving the world again, Jason Champion stopped threats with little problems. Until the night of a massive explosion where he encounters a shadowy bomber who passes on the chance to kill him.
As if the slow-moving spring semester at North High and balancing a hero’s life was not hard enough. Jason is the man of the house, his girlfriend breaks up with him, and he witnesses the enemy he helped brainwash experience flashes of past crimes.But Jason’s problems kick into high gear when the bomber resurfaces with actions that point to a deadlier endgame. Powerless and broken by a murder he cannot remember committing, Jason must reconsider his alliances and strategy in order to survive a new threat who is out for blood.
Series ReviewNow let's get this show on the road! Let's start with book one while reading this I saw that this book gives outcast a chance to be something great. Jason Champion is a kid who has major anger issues but also has a good heart. Jason is a fighter and stands up for what he believes in. The Reject High series has a little of everything that appeals to every person. A little romance, drama, and action who wouldn't love it. Thompson brings real teenage feeling and character into his characters this allows younger readers to connect. I also love that there are superheroes of color! There can never be enough of diversity. So book one was a perfect start to the series and kept me interested. Now onto book two,(Sophmore Freak), this book shows the growth in Jason and how the group has to put aside their difference for the better. I love the fact that you can see Jason growth as he comes to terms with the death of his mother and by doing so he's able to help his friends with their losses. Even with their powers, you can still see their everyday teenage issues.The second book did not disappoint and made want to quickly start the next part of Jason adventure. Book three (Forgotten) did not let me down, the vibe was similar to the other two books and keep me on my toes. I couldn't put it down, the betrayal that happened with Jason and his now ex-knocked me off my feet. This had to be the best book yet, there is so much action and adventure happening. All the foes and deception going on I couldn't predict what would happen to our Jason. And last but not least book Four (Champion Immortal) in the last installment the reader can see that Jason has learned that with power comes great responsibility. He's able to look back and learn from his mistakes. I Enjoyed this series greatly and recommend it to all who want to read a solid and well-written series. Every book was better than the last. 4.6/5 STARS
Get To Know The Author!
Brian Thompson writes high-concept science fiction and urban fantasy for both young adult and new adult audiences. He is a Contributing Editor for Brotha Magazine, a celebrated writer, educator, and a former journalist. His works have been featured in Conversations Live with Cyrus Webb, Rolling Out magazine, Montgomery newspapers, the Atlanta Live TV program, and Amazon’s Top 80 List for Historical Fiction-Africa. His published works include the best-selling Reject High series, the science fiction thriller, The Anarchists, and historical novels The Lost Testament and The Revelation Gate.
Thompson and his family reside in East Metro Atlanta, GA.
You can find his books on Amazon!
After his latest fight, Jason Champion is sent to a rundown alternative school, nicknamed “Reject High.” Fine by him, except a girl named Cherish died there under strange circumstances. At first glance, it's a suicide. But the girl's best friend, a Goth with an attitude named Rhapsody, suspects something different at work.
. .One day during detention, Rhapsody shows Jason a crystal that turns her invisible. He tries one on and he jumps over a city.
Their classmates, Sasha and Selby, see Jason and Rhapsody in action and receive crystals of their own. They keep a low profile until Jason discovers they are being studied by people they trust.
With eleven days until Reject High is destroyed, Jason and his friends must dodge their pursuers, solve the mystery of Cherish’s death, and save their power source from falling into the wrong hands.
The first installment in a young adult fantasy series, Reject High combines engaging characters inside of a page-turning adventure. Equal parts sci-fi, fantasy, and action-adventure Reject High is written from the perspective of Jason Champion, a 15-year old teenager with rage blackouts and a penchant for getting in trouble,
NORMAL IS OVER The school year ending with Reject High's destruction was enough for Jason Champion. Summer break meant lots of time to split between his girlfriend Sasha and best friend Rhapsody.
That is until predictions of a solar storm arrive, one, unlike the earth, has ever seen. Sasha tells Jason the sun's rays may affect his invulnerability and strength, while a mysterious new enemy is possessed with the belief that whoever absorbs the radiation will become immortal.
With no other options and their enemies drawing closer to their goal, Jason and his friends join forces with the “Collective,” a group that has guarded the origin of their power for a century. Its members think the storm will cause an explosion killing millions – a price none of them are willing to pay.
A NEW NORMALMonths after absorbing a nuclear explosion, Jason Champion is recuperating in a hospital when he is attacked by a shape-shifter with an agenda. She wants to harvest Jason’s radioactive blood to keep his enemy, David King, alive. King had almost died at Jason’s hands, but he now wants revenge.
Following a narrow escape, Jason is joined by his new girlfriend Rhapsody, his ex Sasha, and a new friend, Esteban. While the provenance emerald, scarlet emerald, goshenite, heliodor, and morganite crystals that grant them mysterious powers are safe, there is a new threat.
The most sought-after version, aquamarine, has been found. Its wearer can raise the dead.
Now in possession of the aquamarine, Jason is faced with decisions: deliver it to King in 72 hours or let everyone he cares about pay the price. He and his friends race across the nation to do the impossible: keep those close to him safe while defending the aquamarine before time runs out.
For eighteen months after saving the world again, Jason Champion stopped threats with little problems. Until the night of a massive explosion where he encounters a shadowy bomber who passes on the chance to kill him.As if the slow-moving spring semester at North High and balancing a hero’s life was not hard enough. Jason is the man of the house, his girlfriend breaks up with him, and he witnesses the enemy he helped brainwash experience flashes of past crimes.But Jason’s problems kick into high gear when the bomber resurfaces with actions that point to a deadlier endgame. Powerless and broken by a murder he cannot remember committing, Jason must reconsider his alliances and strategy in order to survive a new threat who is out for blood.
Series ReviewNow let's get this show on the road! Let's start with book one while reading this I saw that this book gives outcast a chance to be something great. Jason Champion is a kid who has major anger issues but also has a good heart. Jason is a fighter and stands up for what he believes in. The Reject High series has a little of everything that appeals to every person. A little romance, drama, and action who wouldn't love it. Thompson brings real teenage feeling and character into his characters this allows younger readers to connect. I also love that there are superheroes of color! There can never be enough of diversity. So book one was a perfect start to the series and kept me interested. Now onto book two,(Sophmore Freak), this book shows the growth in Jason and how the group has to put aside their difference for the better. I love the fact that you can see Jason growth as he comes to terms with the death of his mother and by doing so he's able to help his friends with their losses. Even with their powers, you can still see their everyday teenage issues.The second book did not disappoint and made want to quickly start the next part of Jason adventure. Book three (Forgotten) did not let me down, the vibe was similar to the other two books and keep me on my toes. I couldn't put it down, the betrayal that happened with Jason and his now ex-knocked me off my feet. This had to be the best book yet, there is so much action and adventure happening. All the foes and deception going on I couldn't predict what would happen to our Jason. And last but not least book Four (Champion Immortal) in the last installment the reader can see that Jason has learned that with power comes great responsibility. He's able to look back and learn from his mistakes. I Enjoyed this series greatly and recommend it to all who want to read a solid and well-written series. Every book was better than the last. 4.6/5 STARS
Get To Know The Author!
Brian Thompson writes high-concept science fiction and urban fantasy for both young adult and new adult audiences. He is a Contributing Editor for Brotha Magazine, a celebrated writer, educator, and a former journalist. His works have been featured in Conversations Live with Cyrus Webb, Rolling Out magazine, Montgomery newspapers, the Atlanta Live TV program, and Amazon’s Top 80 List for Historical Fiction-Africa. His published works include the best-selling Reject High series, the science fiction thriller, The Anarchists, and historical novels The Lost Testament and The Revelation Gate. Thompson and his family reside in East Metro Atlanta, GA.
You can find his books on Amazon!
December 14, 2017
#Review |��UNRULY by Bethany-Kris #Excerpt #Giveaway
#NewReviewUnruly by Bethany-Kris!
Title: Unruly
Author: Bethany-Kris
Series: Cross + Catherine, #3
Publication Date: December 4, 2017Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Organized Crime, Mafia, Romance
The crime boss.
The hustling queen.
Cross and Catherine Donati have been married five years, but the life they���ve chosen still has things to teach them yet. One can never become too comfortable in their business. Trouble soon follows.
The principe and principessa are all grown up ���
It���s tough being at the top. When all Cross wants is to slow down the world, reality has a way of speeding it back up. Just when Catherine thinks she���s learned everything her mother has to teach, more lessons come her way.
A king and queen must protect their thrones ���
This is their life.
This is their love.
Always.
Revered.
And unruly.
#MyThoughts
I must confess. I am really bad at knowing when it is a series or a standalone or just one book. I just start reading and realise what it is when I finish the book. And this time was not different.
I read the synopsis for Always and I knew I had to read it right away. It was one of the best decision I have made over the past months. Plus, one not-plot-related thing I loved was that I did not have to wait about-one-year-more-or-less for the second book... and then for the next one. So, that was a big point in favour. And although I thought Revere was the last book, I am not complaining for this amazing three-books series. At all.
Unruly was the best closure there could be for Cross and Catty's love story. And this was also the book where I could finally come to terms with her. I was not a big fan of her existence in the first two books. Because I felt she was always hurting Cross. And I love him. I fell in love with him from the very beginning. He is in my top-twenty book boyfriends.
Anyways, this book comes to confirm, ratify and prove that their love is forever. As far as I am concerned. And it is also when Catherine finally becomes who she was meant to be. Hence, why I like her now. Plus, I guess that as any other Bethany-Kris book, there are many twists, turns, ups and downs that you never could have imagined. Because, ladies and gentlemen, this series is not all peaches and cream. So there are scenes that may make you hold your breath and think what the.... Now, they have new and bigger responsibilities with each other and with other people. Their lives were, are, and always will be in some kind of risky situations due to their jobs. But now they face those situations with an incredible and more serious position. Alone and together.
I do not want to ruin this book/series for anybody so I will just say that I highly recommend it. If you have not read Cross + Catherine series, read it. Or if you are still with Revere , finish it and read Unruly . I have so many mixed feelings about their story. I cannot wait to read more about them in other stories/books. Book: +5 unruly stars!
Follow the #BlogTour HERE!Buy: Amazon | Amazon AUS | Amazon UK | Amazon CA | B&N | iBooks | Kobo+Goodreads
#ExcerptCross barely made it through the front door of his parents��� Newport home before the stomping started. Click, click, click, click.
Like goddamn plastic hammers hitting the floor one right after the other. All he saw was a tiny human-shaped tornado with wild brown curls coming his way before his three-year-old daughter crashed into his legs.���Daddy!���Cross���s hand skimmed overtop the crown of his daughter���s head as she peered up at him with a beautiful, toothy smile. Girlish, child-like features that matched her mother���s looked back. Her big soul-brown eyes were all him, though.That, and her attitude.Damn, though, he loved his little girl. She was everything that was bright, beautiful, and perfect in his life. That, and her mother. Cecelia ���Cece��� Donati made her way into the world on the second of September just two years into his and Catherine���s marriage. She had not exactly been planned, but they hadn���t prevented anything, either. Oh, he adored his child beyond measure. Nothing was more perfect than her angel face when she looked at him. The rest of the world ceased to exist.Cece blinked up at him, smiling impossibly wider. ���Hi, Daddy!���Her little feet stomped in her excitement, making that damn clicky noise against the hard wood once more. He tried to get her to wear mini Doc Martens. His girl wanted heels like her mother.No one would ever know how difficult and irritating it was to drive from one side of New York to the other looking for toddler girl shoes with something resembling a heel. A heel that was not too high, if barely there at all, yet visible enough to satisfy his daughter, while also sounding like heels.She wore them all the time.It was the end of November, and she was still wearing them.���I see someone put the clicky shoes back on,��� Cross said.Cece beamed. ���Grandpapa.������Mmhmm.���Calisto rounded the kitchen entryway and came in their direction. ���She wanted them on, son.������Where���s Ma?��� Cross asked.���Packing up Cece���s things.������Ah.���Cece tugged on her father���s pants with a firm hand. ���Daddy?���Instantly, Cross was on his knees. He drifted his fingers through his daughter���s waist-length brown waves as she grabbed his face in both her tiny hands.���What, mia topina?���It was a horrible nickname for her.She was nothing like a little mouse.Not at all quiet.She still loved it.He kept using it.���Cary has baby brudder,��� Cece said.Cross chuckled. ���Does he?���Cary, a four year old neighbor that lived across the street from his parents��� home, regularly came to play with Cece when she was with her grandparents.���Yes, and I wants one, too.���Cross tried to hide his smirk as he looked up at the ceiling. ���That���s not really how it works, Cece.������I wants one, too, Daddy!���Did he mention his daughter was spoiled?Because she was.Entirely.
���We can get a brudder at the shop,��� Cece said matter-of-fact.���First, you can���t go to the store and get a baby brother. We don���t shop for siblings, Cece. That���s not how it works.������Can, too. Grandmamma says! I wants one, Daddy.���Calisto cleared his throat from his position leaning against the wall. ���Yes, Cross, go get her a baby brother from the shop.���Oh, for fuck���s sake.He shot his father a glare over his daughter���s shoulder, silently shouting for the man to shut up. Once Cece got her mind made up on something, she was having it no matter what anyone said. She also learned pretty early on that her parents weren���t very good at telling her no.���We can get a brudder at the shop, Daddy.������No, you can���t, but���������I���s telling Ma.���Yes, his daughter���s best defense when she was told no by her father was to go to her mother. Or vice versa. At this moment, that absolutely worked for Cross.���You tell Ma, then.���Cece���s eyes narrowed. ���I wills!������Okay,��� he said seriously.His daughter huffed, and stomped a heeled foot to the floor once more before she turned and darted back down the hall. Over her shoulder, he heard her say, ���Gonna has a baby brudder.���
* * *DON'T MISS THE OTHER LEGACY NOVELS, FEATURING CROSS + CATHERINE!(#FREE with #KindleUnlimited)
_
ALWAYS (Cross + Catherine #1)Amazon | Amazon Paperback | +Goodreads
REVERE (Cross + Catherine #2)Amazon | Amazon Paperback | +Goodreads
Bethany-Kris is a Canadian author, lover of much, and mother to three young sons, one cat, and two dogs. A small town in Eastern Canada where she was born and raised is where she has always called home. With her boys under her feet, snuggling cat, barking dogs, and a hubby calling over his shoulder, she is nearly always writing something ��� when she can find the time.To keep up-to-date with new releases from Bethany-Kris, sign up to her New Release Newsletter here: http://eepurl.com/bf9lzD
Website ��� Blog ��� Twitter ��� Facebook ��� Goodreads ��� Pinterest ��� Mailing List ��� Amazon Author Page
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#Review | UNRULY by Bethany-Kris #Excerpt #Giveaway
#NewReviewUnruly by Bethany-Kris!
Title: Unruly
Author: Bethany-Kris
Series: Cross + Catherine, #3
Publication Date: December 4, 2017Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Organized Crime, Mafia, Romance
The crime boss.
The hustling queen.
Cross and Catherine Donati have been married five years, but the life they’ve chosen still has things to teach them yet. One can never become too comfortable in their business. Trouble soon follows.
The principe and principessa are all grown up …
It’s tough being at the top. When all Cross wants is to slow down the world, reality has a way of speeding it back up. Just when Catherine thinks she’s learned everything her mother has to teach, more lessons come her way.
A king and queen must protect their thrones …
This is their life.
This is their love.
Always.
Revered.
And unruly.
#MyThoughts
I must confess. I am really bad at knowing when it is a series or a standalone or just one book. I just start reading and realise what it is when I finish the book. And this time was not different.
I read the synopsis for Always and I knew I had to read it right away. It was one of the best decision I have made over the past months. Plus, one not-plot-related thing I loved was that I did not have to wait about-one-year-more-or-less for the second book... and then for the next one. So, that was a big point in favour. And although I thought Revere was the last book, I am not complaining for this amazing three-books series. At all.
Unruly was the best closure there could be for Cross and Catty's love story. And this was also the book where I could finally come to terms with her. I was not a big fan of her existence in the first two books. Because I felt she was always hurting Cross. And I love him. I fell in love with him from the very beginning. He is in my top-twenty book boyfriends.
Anyways, this book comes to confirm, ratify and prove that their love is forever. As far as I am concerned. And it is also when Catherine finally becomes who she was meant to be. Hence, why I like her now. Plus, I guess that as any other Bethany-Kris book, there are many twists, turns, ups and downs that you never could have imagined. Because, ladies and gentlemen, this series is not all peaches and cream. So there are scenes that may make you hold your breath and think what the.... Now, they have new and bigger responsibilities with each other and with other people. Their lives were, are, and always will be in some kind of risky situations due to their jobs. But now they face those situations with an incredible and more serious position. Alone and together.
I do not want to ruin this book/series for anybody so I will just say that I highly recommend it. If you have not read Cross + Catherine series, read it. Or if you are still with Revere , finish it and read Unruly . I have so many mixed feelings about their story. I cannot wait to read more about them in other stories/books. Book: +5 unruly stars!
Follow the #BlogTour HERE!Buy: Amazon | Amazon AUS | Amazon UK | Amazon CA | B&N | iBooks | Kobo+Goodreads
#ExcerptCross barely made it through the front door of his parents’ Newport home before the stomping started. Click, click, click, click.
Like goddamn plastic hammers hitting the floor one right after the other. All he saw was a tiny human-shaped tornado with wild brown curls coming his way before his three-year-old daughter crashed into his legs.“Daddy!”Cross’s hand skimmed overtop the crown of his daughter’s head as she peered up at him with a beautiful, toothy smile. Girlish, child-like features that matched her mother’s looked back. Her big soul-brown eyes were all him, though.That, and her attitude.Damn, though, he loved his little girl. She was everything that was bright, beautiful, and perfect in his life. That, and her mother. Cecelia “Cece” Donati made her way into the world on the second of September just two years into his and Catherine’s marriage. She had not exactly been planned, but they hadn’t prevented anything, either. Oh, he adored his child beyond measure. Nothing was more perfect than her angel face when she looked at him. The rest of the world ceased to exist.Cece blinked up at him, smiling impossibly wider. “Hi, Daddy!”Her little feet stomped in her excitement, making that damn clicky noise against the hard wood once more. He tried to get her to wear mini Doc Martens. His girl wanted heels like her mother.No one would ever know how difficult and irritating it was to drive from one side of New York to the other looking for toddler girl shoes with something resembling a heel. A heel that was not too high, if barely there at all, yet visible enough to satisfy his daughter, while also sounding like heels.She wore them all the time.It was the end of November, and she was still wearing them.“I see someone put the clicky shoes back on,” Cross said.Cece beamed. “Grandpapa.”“Mmhmm.”Calisto rounded the kitchen entryway and came in their direction. “She wanted them on, son.”“Where’s Ma?” Cross asked.“Packing up Cece’s things.”“Ah.”Cece tugged on her father’s pants with a firm hand. “Daddy?”Instantly, Cross was on his knees. He drifted his fingers through his daughter’s waist-length brown waves as she grabbed his face in both her tiny hands.“What, mia topina?”It was a horrible nickname for her.She was nothing like a little mouse.Not at all quiet.She still loved it.He kept using it.“Cary has baby brudder,” Cece said.Cross chuckled. “Does he?”Cary, a four year old neighbor that lived across the street from his parents’ home, regularly came to play with Cece when she was with her grandparents.“Yes, and I wants one, too.”Cross tried to hide his smirk as he looked up at the ceiling. “That’s not really how it works, Cece.”“I wants one, too, Daddy!”Did he mention his daughter was spoiled?Because she was.Entirely.
“We can get a brudder at the shop,” Cece said matter-of-fact.“First, you can’t go to the store and get a baby brother. We don’t shop for siblings, Cece. That’s not how it works.”“Can, too. Grandmamma says! I wants one, Daddy.”Calisto cleared his throat from his position leaning against the wall. “Yes, Cross, go get her a baby brother from the shop.”Oh, for fuck’s sake.He shot his father a glare over his daughter’s shoulder, silently shouting for the man to shut up. Once Cece got her mind made up on something, she was having it no matter what anyone said. She also learned pretty early on that her parents weren’t very good at telling her no.“We can get a brudder at the shop, Daddy.”“No, you can’t, but—”“I’s telling Ma.”Yes, his daughter’s best defense when she was told no by her father was to go to her mother. Or vice versa. At this moment, that absolutely worked for Cross.“You tell Ma, then.”Cece’s eyes narrowed. “I wills!”“Okay,” he said seriously.His daughter huffed, and stomped a heeled foot to the floor once more before she turned and darted back down the hall. Over her shoulder, he heard her say, “Gonna has a baby brudder.”
* * *DON'T MISS THE OTHER LEGACY NOVELS, FEATURING CROSS + CATHERINE!(#FREE with #KindleUnlimited)
_
ALWAYS (Cross + Catherine #1)Amazon | Amazon Paperback | +Goodreads
REVERE (Cross + Catherine #2)Amazon | Amazon Paperback | +Goodreads
Bethany-Kris is a Canadian author, lover of much, and mother to three young sons, one cat, and two dogs. A small town in Eastern Canada where she was born and raised is where she has always called home. With her boys under her feet, snuggling cat, barking dogs, and a hubby calling over his shoulder, she is nearly always writing something … when she can find the time.To keep up-to-date with new releases from Bethany-Kris, sign up to her New Release Newsletter here: http://eepurl.com/bf9lzD
Website • Blog • Twitter • Facebook • Goodreads • Pinterest • Mailing List • Amazon Author Page
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December 10, 2017
#BlogTour | #Review: The Sweetheart Sham by Danielle Ellison + #Excerpt #Giveaway
#NewReviewThe Sweetheart Sham by Danielle Ellison!
Title: The Sweetheart Sham
Author: Danielle Ellison
Series: Southern Charmed #1
Publication Date: December 4, 2017Publisher: Entangled Teen: Crush
In a small town like Culler, South Carolina, you guard your secrets like you guard your cobbler recipe: with your life. Georgia Ann Monroe knows a thing or two about secrets: she’s been guarding the truth that her best friend Will is gay for years now. But what happens when a little white lie to protect him gets her into a fake relationship…and then the boy of her dreams shows up?
Enter Beau Montgomery: Georgie’s first love, hotter than ever, and much too much of a southern gentleman to ever pursue someone else’s girl. There’s no way to come clean to Beau while still protecting Will. But bless their hearts, they live in Culler—where secrets always have a way of revealing themselves.
Disclaimer: This Entangled Teen Crush book contains a hilarious “fakeship,” a scorching-hot impossible relationship, and a heartwarming best-friendship that will make you want to call your best friend right here, right now.
#MyThoughts
I must confess that I have just understood the meaning of the title. And it was because I looked it up. I know, I should have known when I read the title but! When English is not your mother tongue, you just let things like this go unnoticed... Anyways, it has a looooot to do with the plot. It is definitely a clue. #justsaying
The Sweetheart Sham has everything I like in a good young adult romance. Love, drama, secrets, jealousy, and drama! Will, Georgie, and Beau. Their lives have always been intertwined. Best Friends. Everything. Sadly, not always things stay like we want. Specially for G&B.
Living in a small town has its pros y contras. And Georgie knows it first hand. So when his best friend asks her to keep his secret and help him, she accepts. Because... BFF. However, she never expected for "the boy of her dreams" to come back after having left her without a single word. And seeing him again just proves to her that she is not over him ---although she may say otherwise. Beau never wanted to break Georgie's heart. But life sometimes takes very strange twists and turns. Now he is back and he is not sure if it was for better or for worse. Because it seems there have been some changes in his old small town.
Georgie is between a rock and a hard place. On one hand, one of her best friends. On the other, the boy she may be still in love with. And she knows she cannot tell anyone her best friend's secret. Because it is his secret not hers. And because she is just too loyal to him --something I really like about her.
And then, there is Beau. He is back (for a while) and he did not think he still wanted Georgie until he saw her. But she is not his anymore. And maybe, it would be better if he just accepts that he has lost her. However, his heart does not seem to be hearing what his brain says.
I loved it. This is one of those books I seriously highly recommend. It is just amazing. An excellent plot with two main characters that will just made you fall in love with their love story. If you like YA romance, read it. If you like teen drama, read it. If you like/love books, read it. It is a cute and lovely second chance romance <3.
Book: +4.5 second-chances stars!
Follow the #BlogTour HERE!Buy: Amazon | Amazon Australia | Amazon UK | Amazon Canada | B&N | iBooks | Kobo+Goodreads
#Excerpt
“Beau Montgomery, what on earth!” someone, I think it’s Will’s mom, says with a squeal. I can’t single it out because my heart seems to stop beating.
Everyone scoots toward the patio entrance and gathers around. Will drops my hand to move closer.
And then I see him.
He’s standing behind Mrs. M next to his dad, a big smile on his face, and he’s tall. Real tall. His dark hair is longer and nearly falling into his hazel eyes, definitely a length that Orry won’t like much. His jaw is strong, some muscles pressing under his polo. He looks nothing like the boy I remember.
And suddenly I’m a little self-conscious. What am I wearing today? I can’t even remember. I could look down but that would mean looking away from him, and then maybe when I look back he won’t be there. I don’t know if he even sees me, but I see him. Clearly. After more than twoyears of nothing.
“Beau, is that you, boy?” Orry calls. Beau steps around the rest of the family toward his grandpa. He’s closer now, and I can get a better look at his face. My eyes explore his features and rest on his lips, which break out into a small smile and—Dang, is it hot out here?
“Hello, Granddad.” Orry pulls him into a hug and Beau has to lean over to reach him properly. Orry looks like a kid in his arms.
Cheese and rice, even his voice is sexy. Deeper but still with a familiar feeling that it stirs up in me, and an accent with a hint of Georgia twang instead of South Carolina cadence.
I like it. Lord help me, I like it.
Orry holds him out at arm’s length and examines him before giving him a pat on the shoulder. “You look more like your daddy than I expected. How tall are you?”
“Six one, sir,” Beau says.
“You look good, grandson, real good. Atlanta treating you well?”
“Yes, sir, it is.”
I want to move, but I can’t. My feet are stuck to the ground, not that I should move anyway. I don’t reckon I trust myself around him. Especially not right now when I’m not sure if I want to hug him or kick him somewhere that would hurt. I’d do a good job of it too and make darn sure my kick was as painful as him not showing up that night.
“When’s your momma coming?” Mrs. M asks him.
“Not until closer to the wedding,” he says.
I watch as Will hugs him. They’re both smiling, and it reminds me of before when he was here. They were inseparable—we were—and now I’m just standing here like an idiot. Which I am. Will looks in my direction, and then Beau’s eyes are on me, too. It’s even worse when he’s looking at me, especially now with a hidden glimmer in them. It’s not how he said hello to the others; it’s almost like his eyes hadn’t seen me before, and now he’s hyperaware. Just like I’ve been since his dad yelled his name.
He takes a step toward me.
Danielle Ellison is a nomad, always on the lookout for an adventure and the next story. In addition to writing, she’s the founder and coordinator of the NoVa TEEN Book Festival. When she’s not busy with books, she’s probably watching her favorite shows, drinking coffee, or fighting her nomadic urges. She is newly settled in Oklahoma (for now) with her cat, Simon, but you can always find her on twitter @DanielleEWrites.Website • Twitter • Facebook • Instagram • Goodreads
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