Sorcha O'Dowd's Blog, page 35

Book Review ~ ‘The Lost Love of a Soldier’ by Jane Lark.

The Lost Love of a Soldier by Jane Lark

Marlow Intrigues #0.5

Genres: Historical, Romance, Adult

Release Date: 10th July 2014.

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SYNOPSIS

The stunning prequel to Kindle bestseller The Illicit Love of a Courtesan!

Life is for grasping and living…

Naïve and innocent, Lady Ellen Pembroke falls for a dashing young army officer. Captain Paul Harding has such an easy, enchanting smile and his blue eyes glow; vibrancy and warmth emanating from him. She is in love.

In turn, the Captain finds his attention captured by the beautiful young daughter of the Duke of Pembroke at a house party in the summer. Finding Ellen is like finding treasure on the battle field. His sanity clings to her – something beautiful to remind him that not all in the world is ugly.

Ellen is someone to fight for and someone to survive for when he is inevitably called to arms in the battle of Waterloo…

 

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Book Review ~ ‘The Lost Love of a Soldier’ by Jane Lark ~ 5 Stars!

I knew from the word go that this was going to be a very emotional read. I even prepared by having a box of tissues next to me as I started, as there seemed to be no doubt that I’d be in tears by the end of it. Having read ‘The Illicit Love of a Courtesan’ and knowing that this story was the prequel, I knew straight away what the outcome would be, but it did nothing to lessen the emotional blow, and the streams of tears that this beautifully heartbreaking story put me through.

I was so excited to see Paul and Ellen’s story, especially to see how it differed from the relationship between Ellen and Edward in the first book of the series. I worried that this might taint my perspective of Paul slightly, but thankfully it didn’t, as Jane Lark so wonderfully created his character, one that was so different to Edward, that there couldn’t have even been a competition.

Jane Lark writes so beautifully throughout this series, and I was awed when I read this book to see how diverse her writing style is. She wrote the illicit, sensual and true love of Ellen and Edward so well that I rooted for them as a couple, and also wrote the thrill, fear, nerves and courtly love that comes with a first love so wonderfully. It was so clear as I was reading that there are so many different types of love between a man and woman, but that neither is less than the other, only different. The way in which she wrote this story really gave me insight into this, and I fell for Paul and Ellen just as hard as I had for Ellen and Edward, and intrigued to see how marriage to a soldier differed in terms of romantic elements in their everyday life.

I loved the pacing of this story, especially the quick start where I found myself eagerly reading late into the night, my heart pounding as the couple attempt to outrun Ellen’s father to Gretna Green. Even though I knew what would happen, it didn’t stop the excitement and fear that coursed through me as I waited on tenterhooks for them to reach the town.

The historical aspects of this novel, especially those of the Battle of Waterloo, were exceptionally written, they were described in a clear way, not as an information dump, but as part of the story, which had me living Ellen’s story rather than reading it. My heart broke for Ellen as the story came to a close, and there were so many characters that I wanted to kill with my own hands for the advantage they took of such an innocent woman who was in shock and mourning.

This was a superb prequel to the ‘Marlow Intrigues’ Series that really packs a punch. Trust me, you’ll need your own box of tissues for this.

*Review Copy was provided by the author through Candlelit Author Services in exchange for an honest review*

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~ Amazon UK ~ Amazon US ~ B&N ~

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Jane Lark

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Book Review ~ ‘Fight for Me’ by Sharon Page.

Fight For Me by Sharon Page

(Invitation to Eden; Yardley College Alumni #1)

Publication date: May 8th 2014

Genres: Adult, Erotica, Romance

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 SYNOPSIS

I had to drop out of college to raise my son after his dad, bad boy MMA fighter Ryder King, and I broke up. Ryder is so haunted by demons he won’t let me into his heart. Fame, fortune, and fighting didn’t bring him any peace, and I knew, for the sake of our child, I had to leave him.

That’s when I started seeing Ryder’s best friend, Xavier Malone, a former fighter who built a billion dollar empire. Xavier is powerful and handsome, but also caring and wonderful with my son. We were friends at first and now I’m falling for him—but I’m scared to commit.

Then I receive an invitation to the island of Eden, a luxurious resort where I can live my every sensual fantasy. I’m certain Xavier sent it. But after I leave my son with my mom and fly to Eden, I discover I’m in the middle of a grudge match between Xavier and Ryder. They are going to fight for me: inside the ring in a charity match, and outside it—where they both plan to seduce the pants off me. But I have a surprise for them too.

Fight for Me is also a Yardley College Alumni story. For readers 18 years of age +

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Book Review ~ ‘Fight for Me’ by Sharon Page ~ 4 Stars!

I’ve loved the other books in the ‘Invitation to Eden’ series that I have read, so was excited to read this addition to it as well. To see a single mother as the heroine also drew me in, and I was intrigued to see how Tessa juggled the caring for her child, her job to help keep her afloat, and the attentions of two men, both of whom she cares for deeply.

What I really loved about the characters in this book, is that I really didn’t have a favourite for a long time between Tessa’s ex husband ‘Ryder’, and his best friend ‘Xavier’. I felt that both men had good hearts, but had darkness inside. So it was a great change to be constantly jumping from Team Ryder, to Team Xavier and back again. It made the erotic scenes in this novel so much easier to read when I didn’t feel dedicated to one team, and let me appreciate the sensual aspects of the book more than I would have in a book where the love triangle is one sided for me.

However, I have mixed feelings about this book, mainly due to the very different story at the end from the beginning. The first two thirds of the novel I felt did suffer from a lot of bouncing around. I wasn’t quite sure where Tessa was going, as she’d express her love for one man, making me sure that she’d made a decision, only for her to admit the same thing to the other man not two pages later. I didn’t feel the development of her love for Xavier as strongly as I felt I should have, and felt that her feelings for him hadn’t really developed at a natural rate. It was about this far through the novel that I started wishing for something deeper to happen between the characters, something that would explain why it was so difficult for her to choose. I really wanted to know what exactly Tessa felt about Ryder, and really wanted to see why she wouldn’t give him another chance, especially considering how much she admitted to loving him, and that he was the father of their child.

The end third of this book however was fantastic. I was on tenterhooks throughout, and couldn’t help but wish that the whole book had been like this. I felt the book could have been condensed into this wonderful third and I would have been so much happier for reading that without all the back and forth between the men.

The suspense and mystery in this story gave me tenterhooks, and I really loved finally seeing just how close Ryder and Xavier were, as I couldn’t understand earlier on how they could be best friends when Xavier kept attempting to win Tessa. Ryder’s history was shocking and heartbreaking and it was then that I became fully on Team Ryder. The last few chapters felt like a thriller, where I gasped feeling my heart beat fast as I desperately urged them to reach their son in time.

Overall, I was mixed with this story, as I felt the first two thirds lacked in comparison to the fantastic action-packed last third of the book. Whilst the erotica was written well, I’m not overly sure how necessary it was to the plot, but I liked seeing snippets of Tessa and Ryder’s previous sex life which he brought to the table in the hopes to remind her of what they have together.

Final rating is 4 stars. 3 stars for the beginning of the book, 5 stars for the end.

*Review copy was provided by the author through Xpresso Book Tours Review Opportunities in exchange for an honest review*

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~ Amazon UK ~ Amazon US ~ B&N ~

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~ Facebook ~ Goodreads ~ Twitter ~ Website ~

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Xpresso Book Tours Review Opportunities

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Book Review ~ ‘Bound Forever’ by Hanna Peach.

 

Bound Forever by Hanna Peach

Bound #2

Genres: Adult, Romance, Suspense

Release Date: 6th August 2014.

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SYNOPSIS

The stunning conclusion to Bound by Lies…

“Kitten”

Caden and I on the run. Together. But he still won’t let me touch him and I know he is still keeping things from me. I am determined to uncover everything – at any cost. Even if it tears us apart.

Caden

Jacob is back. He’s back and he knows about her. Now, everything that binds the three of us together are twisting and tightening, pulling us all together. I can feel the inevitable coming…

I don’t know how this will end… all I know is, there will be blood.

*Adult romantic suspense. +18 years.*

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Book Review ~ ‘Bound Forever’ by Hanna Peach ~ 5+ Stars!

Ever since I had finished ‘Bound by Lies’, I was on tenterhooks for the second part of “Kitten” and Caden’s story. I was so invested in the two wonderful main characters, their pasts, their possible futures, that I turned into a goodreads stalker, constantly checking to see when the conclusion to their story was to be released.

‘Bound Forever’ was everything I hoped it would be, and more. The thing that drew me into this duet was the powerful writing, that was so honest, refreshing, and brilliantly paced. I loved the psychological elements that were entwined throughout, and there was so much that I’d started to learn about the characters that I was desperate to see more, whether it was good or bad.

The beautiful development of “Kitten” and Caden’s story continued in ‘Bound Forever’, and I loved the back and forth worries that Kitten had in regards to trusting Caden, when she realised that he was still keeping things from her. To see how desperately Caden wanted to keep her safe, and protected, especially from the demons of his own past, was so heartbreaking to read, and I loved seeing how he opened up, letting himself finally talk about the past, and pray for a future with Kitten away from all the pain and heartbreak that their pasts have caused.

The use of time jumps, from present time to the past was brilliantly done, and was a great way for the author to give me as a reader little snippets of information that I knew would all add up to make the final picture clear, keeping me on the edge of my seat. This was one of those books that I just couldn’t put down because I cared too much about the characters, and just had to know whether they would get their happy ending.

The relationship between Kitten and Caden was one of the most beautiful, memorable things about this series, especially when adding in the psychological elements of past abuse and loss. Their stories are heartbreakingly realistic, and give a haunting echo of the pains that some people live with today. This made it doubly heart-warming to read about two broken people fixing each other with their love and devotion, and I know that their beautiful story is now a part of me. Only a really talented author has the power to control their readers emotions so well, and I don’t even hesitate when putting Hanna Peach in the category of a very talented author, one that I will keep a close eye out for future releases.

A stunning conclusion to this wonderful two part series. It is up there with my top favourites, and Hanna Peach is an author to watch out for.

5+ Stars!

*Review copy was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*

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For a limited time only both books in the Bound series are only 99c! Grab them now!

~ Amazon UK ~ Amazon US ~ B&N ~ Smashwords ~

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Hanna Peach

~ Facebook ~ Goodreads ~ Twitter ~ Website ~

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Cover Reveal ~ ‘Cherish’ by Tracey Garvis-Graves.

 

We

are thrilled to share the gorgeous cover for Cherish, by New York Times Bestselling Author Tracey Garvis-Graves. This

novella is a companion to Covet.

Title: Cherish (Covet 1.5)

Author: Tracey Garvis-Graves

Age Group: Adult

Genre: Women’s Fiction/Contemporary Romance

Add Cherish on Goodreads

Fans of Covet by New York Times bestselling author Tracey Garvis Graves will be delighted by this novella-length sequel.

When Daniel Rush wakes up in the hospital after suffering a gunshot wound to the head, the last person he expects to see at his bedside is his ex-wife Jessica. Their marriage disintegrated after the death of their infant son Gabriel, and Daniel gave Jessie what he thought she wanted: the freedom to start over with someone else. But Daniel never updated his emergency contact information, and Jessie is the one who receives the call with the devastating news.

Daniel was Jessie’s one true love. Together since college, Jessie had dreams of raising a family with Daniel, and growing old together. When Gabriel died, Jessie buried those dreams with her beloved son and shut everyone out, including Daniel.

Daniel faces months of grueling rehabilitation and he’s going to need some help. Jessie is the last person anyone expects to volunteer, but this is her one chance to make amends, giving her and Daniel a shot at getting things right this time.

The road to recovery will be long and arduous. But with Jessie leading the way, Daniel just might be able to get his old life back.

Daniel knows how to covet. But can Jessie help him remember how to cherish?

*Please note that this is a novella-length sequel. Reading Covet before Cherish is highly recommended in order to enhance your reading pleasure.

See where Daniel’s story begins, with Covet

GoodReads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | iBooks



About Tracey Garvis-Graves

Tracey Garvis-Graves is the author of On the Island and Covet. She lives in a suburb of Des Moines, Iowa with her husband, two children, and hyper dog Chloe. She blogs at http://www.traceygarvisgraves.com using colorful language and a snarky sense of humor to write about pop culture, silly television shows, and her suburban neighborhood. You can e-mail her at traceygarvisgraves@yahoo.com. She’d love to hear from you.


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Book Blitz ~ ‘Found in Us’ by Layla Hagen.

 

Found in Us by Layla Hagen

(Lost #2)

Publication date: July 24th 2014

Genres: Contemporary, New Adult, Romance

 

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SYNOPSIS

**This can be read as a STANDALONE. The second book in the Lost series tells Jessica and Parker’s story.**

All Jessica wants -as a college graduate — is to be a good girl. She landed the job of her dreams at a museum and is trying to eliminate temptations. No more short skirts (when she can help it). No wild parties. And no men.

She particularly excels at that last thing. . .

Until her path crosses Parker’s. Again. Jessica remembers the last time their paths crossed very well. She was left with a seriously bruised ego. She knows it would be best to avoid him altogether. But the charming Brit makes it hard for her to elude his electrifying pull. He is as irresistible as he is captivating.

And enigmatic.

Because underneath the sleek Armani suit and the sweet British accent that makes her crave his touch, Parker isn’t the perfect gentleman everyone thinks he is.

He’s exactly what Jessica doesn’t want, but desperately needs.

A bad, bad boy.

 

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I decide to use the dress as an excuse to leave early. To my dismay, Parker is leaning against the wall farther down the corridor, one or two turns away from the entrance to the bar. His eyes rest on the stain on my dress for a few seconds and my cheeks flare up instantly. I’m sure he can see the redness in them even in the dim light.

“I have to go,” I say. “My dress is soaked.”

“I’ll drive you home,” he says, walking toward me.

“No, you just got here. I’m sure you and Dani have lots to talk about.” I actually take a step back, only to hit the wall behind me.

“I’d just drop you off and return. Are you afraid of being alone with me, Jessica?”

“No . . . it’s just not necessary. I can take a cab.”

“What are you afraid of?” he insists, stepping right in front of me. “That I’ll try to seduce you and take you to bed? Do I really strike you like that kind of guy?”

Every inch of my body commands me to say yes. In my experience, men who don’t look even half as godlike as he does are after one thing only. But his humiliating rejection all those months ago proves he isn’t one of them. And nothing I’ve seen or heard about him indicated he’s a womanizer. But being so close to him makes it impossible to think rationally.

I push him away, but with one swing he grabs both my hands and pins them against the wall above me. His lips are inches away from mine, the fingers of his free hand tracing the contour of my lips, leaving a trail of fire behind them. He’s so close to me that I can feel every single hot breath against my lips. He locks eyes with me, and it’s the sight of his blue eyes boring into mine—more than his proximity and his touch—that sets me on fire, causing an almost unbearable pressure between my thighs.

He trails his fingers from my lips down to my chin and then slowly over my neck. I bite my lip when he presses gently with his thumb on the hollow of my neck, then proceeds with his torture farther down. His fingers peruse the hem of my neckline, at the exact point where the soaked fabric of the dress meets my skin, then slip under the fabric. Just a fraction of an inch.

Not enough to actually touch my breast.

But more than enough to send me over the edge.

“Damn you, Parker, kiss me,” I whisper. He doesn’t answer, the corner of his lips lifting in a delicious smile as he removes his hand from my neckline, letting it fall by his side. His eyes never leave mine. I wait, sucking in my breath, for him to lean forward and kiss me. After what feels like hours, he finally leans forward and kisses me.

On my goddamn forehead.

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To read my 5 star review for ‘Found in Us’, click here

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~ Amazon UK ~ Amazon US ~ B&N ~ iTunes ~ Kobo ~

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*Ends August 12th – open INTL*
*$100 Amazon Gift Card*

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Layla Hagen

My name is Layla Hagen and I am a New Adult Contemporary Romance author.

I fell in love with books when I was nine years old, and my love affair with stories continues even now, many years later.

I write romantic stories and can’t wait to share them with the world.

And I drink coffee. Lots of it, in case the photo didn’t make it obvious enough

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~ Facebook ~ Goodreads ~ Twitter ~ Website ~

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Book Blitz organised by Xpresso Book Tours.

All excerpts, teasers and author information was provided for this use by the author.

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Blog Stop ~ ‘Indigo Instinct’ by Jacinda Buchmann.

Indigo Instinct by Jacinda Buchmann

(The Indigo Trilogy #2)

Genres: Young Adult, Fantasy, Paranormal, Romance

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SYNOPSIS

They thought they were safe.

Identical twins, Tyler and Toby, escaped the clutches of a covert government agency determined to exploit their extrasensory powers. Before they regained their freedom, they acquired proof of the agency’s existence, proof that was guaranteed to secure immunity not only for themselves but for their friends as well.

They took more than they bargained for.

When the brothers learn that they have unfinished business with the agency, they find themselves reunited with Indigo Children, Liliana, Grace, Eddie, and Rebecka and once again on the run.

They must rely on their instincts.

While Grace and Eddie discover that love isn’t always easy, Sarah’s life is thrown into turmoil, and her guilty conscience leads to fear and distrust of her own heart.

Intuition doesn’t lie.

There are new players in the game and it isn’t easy to know who to trust.

Sometimes the right path isn’t always the easiest.

Is there a way to give the agency what they want and still retain their freedom? Find out in Indigo Instinct, Book Two of The Indigo Trilogy.

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Book Review ~ ‘Indigo Instinct’ by Jacinda Buchmann ~ 5 Stars!

Wow! Jacinda Buchmann has done it again.

I’ve been eagerly awaiting ‘Indigo Instinct’ since I finished ‘Indigo Incite’ and my god was this an amazing follow-up.

The characters were one of the things that really drew me into Book 1, and yet again they were written to perfection, not at all out-of-character, and seamlessly continuing on from Book 1 without any unrealistic change in their personalities. Liliana was wonderful as always, and having her in the gang is just one of the things that makes the whole group connect so well. Her innocence, yet fierce determination to protect those she loves is beautifully contrasted with the more reserved Grace, who grew on me so much in this chapter of the Indigos story.

What really pulled the punch for me in this novel was Sarah and Ian’s storyline. I loved the caring and devoted friend Ian played towards Sarah in Book 1 and one of the things I was most excited to see in this book was how their relationship played out now that she had had her baby. I was so intrigued to see how their close relationship could be rocked out of balance if something happened to her husband who was fighting in the army, but also to see whether Ian would react on his obvious feelings for Sarah, or play the martyr and remain her friend. Their relationship was beautifully played out in this novel which is something that I can’t wait to see progress in Book Three. I loved how truthfully Jacinda Buchmann approached this development in their relationship, making Sarah’s despair at the loss of her husband entwine with her desperation to keep her child safe, and to make sure that her feelings for Ian wouldn’t come between that.

The suspense in this novel was brilliantly paced, and I loved how the seemingly peaceful and quiet summer for the Indigos slowly became more and more menacing before they ended up hiding at every turn and conducting escape missions. I was on the edge of my seat throughout these scenes and could only take a deep breath after every chapter before I was compelled to dive back into the story and the turmoil that the Indigos were experiencing.

Jacinda Buchmann has such an incredible writing style, and I’m always in awe when I effortlessly flow through her books because of the beautiful pacing of the story and the brilliantly developed characters that I just can’t put it down. I always feel as though I’m experiencing the story rather than reading it, which is the sign of a truly talented author. She can write the sweet, innocence and fun of first love and the heartbreaking, yet beautiful hardships of a love that can never be.

A true pleasure to read, and this series is not to be missed.

5 Stars!

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~ Amazon UK ~ Amazon US ~ B&N ~

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~ YouTube ~

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*$25 Amazon Giftcard Giveaway and signed paperback of Indigo Incite*

~ A Rafflecopter Giveaway ~

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Jacinda Buchmann

~ Blog ~ Facebook ~ Goodreads ~ Pinterest ~ Tumblr ~ Twitter ~

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Blog Tour ~ ‘Indigo Instinct’ by Jacinda Buchmann.

Indigo Instinct by Jacinda Buchmann

(The Indigo Trilogy #2)

Genres: Young Adult, Fantasy, Paranormal, Romance

۞

SYNOPSIS

They thought they were safe.

Identical twins, Tyler and Toby, escaped the clutches of a covert government agency determined to exploit their extrasensory powers. Before they regained their freedom, they acquired proof of the agency’s existence, proof that was guaranteed to secure immunity not only for themselves but for their friends as well.

They took more than they bargained for.

When the brothers learn that they have unfinished business with the agency, they find themselves reunited with Indigo Children, Liliana, Grace, Eddie, and Rebecka and once again on the run.

They must rely on their instincts.

While Grace and Eddie discover that love isn’t always easy, Sarah’s life is thrown into turmoil, and her guilty conscience leads to fear and distrust of her own heart.

Intuition doesn’t lie.

There are new players in the game and it isn’t easy to know who to trust.

Sometimes the right path isn’t always the easiest.

Is there a way to give the agency what they want and still retain their freedom? Find out in Indigo Instinct, Book Two of The Indigo Trilogy.

۞

Book Review ~ ‘Indigo Instinct’ by Jacinda Buchmann ~ 5 Stars!

Wow! Jacinda Buchmann has done it again.

I’ve been eagerly awaiting ‘Indigo Instinct’ since I finished ‘Indigo Incite’ and my god was this an amazing follow-up.

The characters were one of the things that really drew me into Book 1, and yet again they were written to perfection, not at all out-of-character, and seamlessly continuing on from Book 1 without any unrealistic change in their personalities. Liliana was wonderful as always, and having her in the gang is just one of the things that makes the whole group connect so well. Her innocence, yet fierce determination to protect those she loves is beautifully contrasted with the more reserved Grace, who grew on me so much in this chapter of the Indigos story.

What really pulled the punch for me in this novel was Sarah and Ian’s storyline. I loved the caring and devoted friend Ian played towards Sarah in Book 1 and one of the things I was most excited to see in this book was how their relationship played out now that she had had her baby. I was so intrigued to see how their close relationship could be rocked out of balance if something happened to her husband who was fighting in the army, but also to see whether Ian would react on his obvious feelings for Sarah, or play the martyr and remain her friend. Their relationship was beautifully played out in this novel which is something that I can’t wait to see progress in Book Three. I loved how truthfully Jacinda Buchmann approached this development in their relationship, making Sarah’s despair at the loss of her husband entwine with her desperation to keep her child safe, and to make sure that her feelings for Ian wouldn’t come between that.

The suspense in this novel was brilliantly paced, and I loved how the seemingly peaceful and quiet summer for the Indigos slowly became more and more menacing before they ended up hiding at every turn and conducting escape missions. I was on the edge of my seat throughout these scenes and could only take a deep breath after every chapter before I was compelled to dive back into the story and the turmoil that the Indigos were experiencing.

Jacinda Buchmann has such an incredible writing style, and I’m always in awe when I effortlessly flow through her books because of the beautiful pacing of the story and the brilliantly developed characters that I just can’t put it down. I always feel as though I’m experiencing the story rather than reading it, which is the sign of a truly talented author. She can write the sweet, innocence and fun of first love and the heartbreaking, yet beautiful hardships of a love that can never be.

A true pleasure to read, and this series is not to be missed.

5 Stars!

۞

~ Amazon UK ~ Amazon US ~ B&N ~

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~ YouTube ~

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*$25 Amazon Giftcard Giveaway and signed paperback of Indigo Incite*

~ A Rafflecopter Giveaway ~

۞

Jacinda Buchmann

~ Blog ~ Facebook ~ Goodreads ~ Pinterest ~ Tumblr ~ Twitter ~

 ۞

New Release + Book Review ~ ‘Found in Us’ by Layla Hagen.

Found in Us by Layla Hagen

(Lost #2)

Genres: New Adult, Contemporary, Romance

Release Date: 24th July 2014

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SYNOPSIS

**This can be read as a STANDALONE. The second book in the Lost series tells Jessica and Parker’s story.**

All Jessica wants -as a college graduate — is to be a good girl. She landed the job of her dreams at a museum and is trying to eliminate temptations. No more short skirts (when she can help it). No wild parties. And no men.

She particularly excels at that last thing. . .

Until her path crosses Parker’s. Again. Jessica remembers the last time their paths crossed very well. She was left with a seriously bruised ego. She knows it would be best to avoid him altogether. But the charming Brit makes it hard for her to elude his electrifying pull. He is as irresistible as he is captivating.

And enigmatic.

Because underneath the sleek Armani suit and the sweet British accent that makes her crave his touch, Parker isn’t the perfect gentleman everyone thinks he is.

He’s exactly what Jessica doesn’t want, but desperately needs.

A bad, bad boy.

 

 ۞

Book Review ~ ‘Found in Us’ by Layla Hagen ~ 5 Stars!

As soon as I knew that Jessica and Parker’s story was going to be told, I just knew that I had to read it. I loved the little hints we were given in ‘Lost in Us’ about their relationship and that as we were told nothing concrete, and Jessica seemed far too hateful towards Parker for such a short acquaintance, I just knew that something had happened between them whilst James and Serena were working through their relationship, and I just had to know what that was!

All my hopes were met when I read ‘Found in Us’, straight away I absolutely adored reading Jessica’s narrative and knew that she was going to be a character that I connected with right away. Seeing her life from her own view was so wonderful as I realised that all the impressions I had of Jessica had been from Serena’s point of view, and whilst very loving, they didn’t have nearly as much understanding behind them as we may have thought.

Jessica is hurt and damaged from her past, something that she has hidden from all of those she cares about, even Serena, and seeing her desperation to make something of herself in the world, and show not only herself but her father and those who had undermined her that she was worth something. I loved her strength and devotion even when her job becomes tough, and how determined she was to see it through herself.

‘Lost in Us’ showed a very heartbreaking and anguished side to love and trust, and whilst I adored that story, reading the sweet, heart-warming and slow burning love between Jessica and Parker in ‘Found in Us’ was just as special to me. I loved their relationship and how it wasn’t impeded by their individual pride or petty misunderstandings, but that they had to work through their problems like any other new couple would. It was slow burning in the sense that their trust in each other grew slowly, but surely throughout the novel, but the heat in the bedroom was fast-burning indeed and I could feel their chemistry leap off the page. They were a truly beautiful couple.

There’s so much more I want to say about this book and how much I loved it, but I really don’t want to spoil any of Jessica and Parker’s beautiful relationship as it really is something so special to read and witness yourself, but I will say that this is one of the most heartwarming, beautiful and brilliantly written books I have read this year. I can’t wait to see more from Layla Hagen and I’m excited to see where else she takes us.

5 Stars!

* I received a review copy from the author in exchange for an honest review *

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77p/99c for a limited time. Grab it now!

~ Amazon UK ~ Amazon US ~

 ۞

Layla Hagen

~ Facebook ~ Goodreads ~ Twitter ~ Website ~

۞

Book Blitz ~ ‘The Obsidian Collection: An Anthology’

The Obsidian Collection (Anthology)

Publication date: July 1st 2014

Genres: Adult, Romance

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SYNOPSIS

Nine authors. Nine dark-love novellas.

The wicked have never looked so good…

Obsidian Escape by Rebel Adams

Just one look at the battered form of Whitney Geddings awakens a fierce protective instinct in Detective Jackson Ogden…but at what price?

Obsidian Liquor by Scarlett Dawn

Reporter, Elizabeth Forter, never expected one drunken challenge to leave her sexually satisfied and waking beside Daniil – the head of the Russian mafia.

Obsidian Faith by Bev Elle

Shanice Bailey’s epic faith in Trevor Kyle, the man she’s loved since they were both wards at the Baptist Children’s Home, is shaken when his sketchy foster father shows up on their honeymoon.

Obsidian Heart by Nicole Flockton

Will Erika’s holiday fling with Brandt bring him out of the shadows, or is his heart destined for darkness?

Obsidian Sky by Lara Henley

When military man, Brandon Michaels, comes home to a town he no longer recognizes, his salvation may rest in Arabella Knight, a woman who has secrets that no one knows.

Obsidian Ice by Missy Johnson

Medical intern Cam Fletcher knew becoming a surgeon would be hard work, but what he wasn’t counting on was falling for his mentor – cocky surgeon Eric Langdon.

Obsidian Jewel by Angel Lawson

Professional thieves, competitors, and occasional lovers, Maya Clarke and Malcolm Kent, must work together for the job of a lifetime and try not to kill one another while doing it.

Obsidian Desire by t.h. snyder

Can one chivalrous act change Tyler Jones, a coldhearted man, or will desire burn through his soul and change him forever?

Obsidian Beauty by Emily Walker

Out of jail and finally ready to confront the man who left her there to rot, Abigail Rivers is upset to learn Benton Sellers has moved on with no regard for the sacrifices she has made for him.

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OBSIDIAN LIQUOR by Scarlett Dawn

Daniil peered at me.  His stare was a warning.  “What were you doing, Ms. Forter?”

So he did know who I was.  The jerk had probably followed me after I had bumped him.

I shrugged and went with the semi-truth.  “Getting a story.”

“What story might that be?” Stash asked, his gaze roaming me in an assessing way.  We had never met before, so this was my first up close and personal with the man.

I shrugged again.  “Brent and Cole are big news.  Anything that I can put in print that others don’t have is good business.” Sticking to the truth as much as possible was always key when caught snooping.  And I was press.  They expected it of me.

“Hear anything interesting?” Daniil asked gently.

Instinct had me taking a step back.  The man was chilling on a different level.  “Nothing I didn’t already know.”

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Rebel Adams is writer and lover of good prose, better cigars, well-aged whiskey and fine women– and not always in that order.

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Scarlett Dawn is the author of the Forever Evermore new adult fantasy series, which include King Hall and King Cave. She lives in the Midwest, where she loves to ‘people watch’ and daydream. She adores her music loud and her fries covered in melted cheese.

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Bev Elle is the author of sweet and spicy, contemporary romance. She’s a lover of books–those already written, and those sheharbors in her very active imagination. Writing is a passion she’s had for many years, but was unable to act upon. Until now. Bev Elle is the mother of three human children and two canines. She is also the lover of one husband. When Bev isn’t writing in her spare time after work, she is thinking of doing so.

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Nicole Flockton is an Australian living in Texas. Nicole writes sexy contemporary romances which seduce you one kiss at a time. She enjoys taking two characters and creating unique situations for them. When she’s not busy writing, she’s attempting to keep up with two active children and a busy husband.

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Lara Henley is originally from Oklahoma, but has lived in several places. She began writing in 2009 when she had a dream about a little girl traveling with her grandmother. That is how Jessie Discovers Christmas was born. She then ventured into YA and adult romance. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Fashion Marketing and a Masters in Administrative Leadership. She loves all things creative and aspires to have a fulltime writing career.

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Missy Johnson in a small town in Central Victoria, Australia, with her husband and her confused pets (a dog who think she’s a cat, a cat who thinks he’s a dog…you get the picture). When she’s not writing, she can usually be found looking for something to read.

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Angel Lawson lives with her family in Atlanta and has a lifelong obsession with creating fiction from reality, either with paint or words. On a typical day you can find her writing, reading, plotting her escape from the zombie apocalypse and trying to get the glitter out from under her nails. She is the author of five books, including the Wraith Series, Serial Summer, FanGirl, and Vigilant. She is the co-author of the New Adult Paranormal book, Odin’s Murder with Kira Gold.

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t.h. snyder is a 34 y/o single mom of two amazing kids. She lives in Central PA where she works full time for a local business/technical school. Writing wasn’t something she ever thought she’d be doing, but here she is. t. h. snyder started reading like a nut after Twilight and 50 Shades of Grey. Since then she’s read over 300 romance and paranormal books. In June of 2013, she decided to try her go at writing. She had a vision and went with it….hence Touch Me. To date she’s published 6 books and now 2 anthologies…The Touch Series (NA Romance), Pierced Love (YA Romance), Cursed Love, Cursed #1 (Erotic Romance), My Dirty Little Valentine, and the Obsidian Collection.

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Emily Walker loves creating worlds and stumbling around in them. She is constantly losing her chap-stick, and has an obsession with the color pink. Currently a resident of the mountains and loving the view, she writes mostly paranormal fiction and horror. Her small family consists of her red bearded other half, a rat terrier named Rebel, and a cat named Mr. Creepy.

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Book Blitz organised by Xpresso Book Tours.

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Book Review ~ ‘Calling California’ by J.P. Grider.

Calling California by J.P. Grider

(Hunter Hill University #1)

Publication date: June 2014

Genres: New Adult, Romance, Contemporary

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SYNOPSIS

Cali Parker is poor. She has a lot on her plate – her father is dying, she’s working to help pay the rent, and she’s two-years behind in college.

Griffin Brooks is rich. He has not a care in the world – he’s acing his engineering courses, his hobby is restoring his fifty-thousand dollar classic car, and he has a different girl on his arm every week.

When Cali sees Griffin on her first day of class, she’s immediately smitten and thinks she’s found the perfect guy. When Griffin sees Cali at the bank, he immediately forgets the blonde he was with that morning. Then they meet, and their worlds collide.

Cali doesn’t belong in Griffin’s world, and he doesn’t understand hers. But just when Griffin convinces Cali that their two different worlds can blend, a secret is revealed that tears them apart.

Is their love strong enough to bring them back together, or will their worlds drift further apart?

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Book Review ~ ‘Calling California’ by J.P. Grider ~ 5 Stars!

Calling California was such a unique read in the new adult genre, that it has stayed with me long after finishing it. Cali is one of those characters that I immediately rooted for, the fact that she had flaws (and quite major ones at that) made me identify with her as a real person and feel excited to see how she’d progress and develop as a person throughout the novel.

Having a character who is very clearly living a life of ‘the poor’ was a really interesting basis for the story, and to see Cali’s very strong aversion to the wealthy was really unique and had me fascinated. All too often I’ve read about how the rich look down on the poor, so it was brilliant to see just how this can so easily be switched around. Whilst I can accept that some readers might find Cali’s disdain for anybody with money a little unfair and can at times make her unlikeable, I for one loved seeing just how much her relationship with Griffin changed her perception of money, and that it isn’t so much rich and poor, but what people do with what they have. The chapter that showed Cali and Griffin as youngsters was beautiful and really set the tone of the whole novel.

I loved the sweet and romantic side to Cali and Griffin’s relationship, and how they felt comfortable enough to be witty with each other. The slow development of Cali’s trust in Griffin also made for some really brilliantly written scenes where we see Cali’s doubt in Griffin because of his privileged background, despite his caring and down-to-earth nature, and the fact that she knew she was falling for him.

This isn’t just a beautiful romance though, there are a lot of emotional family scenes which really make this book stunning. Cali’s father is dying throughout the book, and we see the heartbreaking reality of a young girl who can’t handle watching her father die a slow and painful death, yet her guilt at leaving him alone in his final days. I shed a tear reading these scenes and it really clenched at the heart.

I loved the mystery behind the characters pasts as well. I don’t want to spoil for people who have yet to read it so will just say that not all is as it seems. I really disliked Cali’s mother for her cruelty to her daughter in the hopes of making herself seem less at blame, yet I also felt for her situation. Cali however was so strong throughout and I really hoped that she would come out of her journey unscathed, despite her mother’s attempts to hurt her, in the hopes of keeping her close in her misery.

This really was a fantastic story which has stayed with me long after finishing it. Griffin is the perfect hero, and I really loved his desire to do right by Cali, and his guilt at having to hide things from her so that he could keep her from further pain.

5 Stars!

*Review copy was provided by the author through Xpresso Book Tours Review Opportunities in exchange for an honest review*

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J.P. Grider

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