She'd never seen anything as majestic, magnetic, and erotic as Andros the centaur.
────── ♔ ──────
Song of Dragons by Aja James
Dragon Tails #2
Release - December 24, 2021
Genre - Paranormal Romance / fated mates/ mythology / lgbt rep
Multiple POV - 3rd person
Heat Level - 5 out of 5 / so many exquisite scenes
Format/Source - eARC provided by NetGalley
Length - at least 200 pages
Publisher - Indie
Release - December 24, 2021
Genre - Paranormal Romance / fated mates/ mythology / lgbt rep
Multiple POV - 3rd person
Heat Level - 5 out of 5 / so many exquisite scenes
Format/Source - eARC provided by NetGalley
Length - at least 200 pages
Publisher - Indie
Every lore of every clan, across time and space, dreamed of dragons. Did you ever wonder why?
Erebu and Sorin fought through countless lifetimes of trials and tribulations to find one another again. They even conquered death.
But Ere’s rebirth requires a price: he must answer the Celestial Summons when it comes and faithfully complete each task the Jade Emperor sets before him.
On the bright side, he doesn’t have to perform miracles alone. Sorin will be right there with him. One the not so bright side, his Fate, the Fate of all dragon Kind, and by extension, the Universal Balance, depend on the successful execution of each quest.
No pressure.
His second task is find and retrieve the Song of Destiny.
Location: Unknown. Time travel will be required.
Clues: Too few. But there may be a few harpies, a centaur, a giant Chinese Tibetan Mastiff and other mythical monsters along the way.
Accompaniments: His beloved Sorin (who is all he needs!) A spoiled, vain, high maintenance she-dragon (who he doesn't need). But whose enchantment spells have their uses from time to time.
Timing: ASAP. Determined by an arbitrary Sandglass in the Jade Emperor’s possession.
The end of the world may be just around the corner. Along the way, enemies may become lovers, reluctant friendships may form, and lots of hot, desperate, this-may-be-the-last-time-we-have-sex sex will definitely be had.
And who knows, you too may fall under the enchantment of…
SONG OF DRAGONS.
You can find Song of Dragons here:
Goodreads * Amazon
My Two Cents
5 "I'm gonna suffer some major withdrawal" stars
I honestly don't know where to begin.
I've been telling everyone since the beginning that this writer is a genius. From the characters, the plot, the intermingling of worlds, the mythology, the history, the intricate details that make the big picture... I CANNOT GET ENOUGH!!
It all happens in ancient Greece, during a time when myth and legend were real and fundamental. I had so much fun with the rich world the author created and found myself desperate not to finish this story.
First of all, there's more Ere and Sorin. Anyone who is anyone has gotta love these guys. Ere is always a guaranteed hoot, no exception. And Sorin, with his stoicism and silent support, is always perfection. Together, these men make my day each and every time!
Then we get the task, which is hilarious when I know I should be taking things seriously. From the vagueness of the mission to the elusive hourglass, I'm over here giggling my tail off.
At first, I didn't think I'd like Divina, which would suck because she'd be the first heroine I couldn't stand. She came off very superficial and flighty and it was an ordeal to try to take her seriously. However, I quickly learned there was so much more brewing beneath her surface. As a celestial dragon, she never really had to feel or suffer or long for anything. Then she meets Andros and her whole world, shoot everything she believed in, came crashing down. And who could really blame her? Andros was everything!!!!!
“I do want you. You must know that I do. I can’t stop touching you when you’re near. I can’t look away. I can barely think. I’ve never wanted anything or anyone as much as I want you. And that just…” She trailed off and gulped a breath before continuing in a whisper, “It scares me. I don’t know how to handle it.”
Speaking of Andros... this male had so much going for him. Gorgeous looks, long beautiful hair, luminous purple eyes... and HE WAS A FREAKING CENTAUR!! I wasn't sure how these two were gonna get busy, but the author solved that dilemma right quick and it was so effing hot. I mean 'oh lawd my virgin eyes' kinda hot. Yes, these two had me feeling like a born-again blushing virgin for all that they had going on and I loved it!! What won me over from the start though was his heart. He was such a kind, thoughtful, sweet soul who only wanted someone to call his own. For someone to know him. To love him as he would love them. He only wanted Divina.
“I am not afraid to hurt for you,”he repeated low, his manhood throbbing against her swollen, needy core in time with her own heartbeat and pulse. “I know you do not accept me fully. I know you are not mine the way I am yours. I will never ask you to give something you cannot. I only want you to be brave enough to hurt for me too.”
Her breath froze on a wet hitch as she stared into his clear, violet eyes. Suddenly, he smiled. An aching, sensual smile that made her heart skip a couple of beats, then ratchet back up in a thundering gallop. “Be brave when you claim me, my woman. I promise you I am worth it.”
Her breath froze on a wet hitch as she stared into his clear, violet eyes. Suddenly, he smiled. An aching, sensual smile that made her heart skip a couple of beats, then ratchet back up in a thundering gallop. “Be brave when you claim me, my woman. I promise you I am worth it.”
Seriously, if you can't tell by all of my exclamation points, take my silly advice and start reading these books. If you love paranormal romance, mythology, the best heroes in the game, their equally to-die-for heroines, and stories that will keep you guessing, shrieking, sighing, fanning yourself, and definitely paying attention... GET TO READING!!
She’d never have enough. They moved together in a primal dance older than time. Bodies slicked with sweat. Scents fused; breaths combined. When she came at last, pulling him into the vortex with her, it was a soft, trembling, full-bodied surrender. Filled with quiet sighs and deep exhales. Worshipful. Reverent. And finally, a dragon who had been loved by many, but who never fell herself, understood what it was to give all of her being to another. Mind, body, heart and soul.
Excerpt
“I don’t think he’s the kind of male who can just have sex and walk away,”she said softly in that small, guilty voice.
“I think he wants more. I don’t think I can give him what he wants.”
“Why not?”
“You don’t even know me or you wouldn’t ask!”
“That’s why I’m asking.”“I’m just…I’m just not the type of woman who commits to one man!”
“No need to shout at me.”
“I’m not!”
“My bleeding, tender eardrums beg to differ. You’re speaking with exclamation marks.”
Divina took a steadying, fortifying breath, her mouth flattening into a thin line.
She looked pissed. Ere approved of this look more than the blotchy, red-faced blubbering.
“You’re not very nice,”she noticed.
“Neither are you.”
At this, she stumbled and gaped at him.
“I’m the nicest person in the world! Everyone loves me! I make people happy! I love my babies—
”Ere snorted.
“You didn’t make the centaur stud happy.”
That made her retreat into stuttering.
“I-I-”
“And maybe you bestow all that gushy goodness and effusive affection on all your creatures and everyone around you because you’re addicted to the affection and attention you get in return.”
“W-What—”
“There’s a word for it. It’s called narcissism. Or, wait, maybe it’s HPD. Histrionic Personality Disorder.”
About the Author
Aja James just completed the Pure/ Dark Ones paranormal-fantasy romance series in 2020. If you want your heart battered, bruised, shattered and skewered, then put back together in the most glorious ways, check out the series below. Every couple gets an HEA, but they fight like hell for it on the way.
Aja is now working on her new series, Dragon Tails, because dragons are her favorite shifters of all!
Visit https://aja-james.blog/ for more information!
He was her treasure.
She'd lay claim to him every chance she got.
If she could tattoo the words "property of Rui" on his forehead, she would.
She'd lay claim to him every chance she got.
If she could tattoo the words "property of Rui" on his forehead, she would.
────── ♔ ──────
Dream of Dragons by Aja James
Dragon Tails #1
Release - September 3, 2021
Genre - Paranormal Romance / mythology / MM romance
Multiple POV - 3rd person
Heat Level - 4 out of 5 / several scenes
Format/Source - ebook borrowed through Kindle Unlimited
Length - 322 pages
Publisher - Indie
Release - September 3, 2021
Genre - Paranormal Romance / mythology / MM romance
Multiple POV - 3rd person
Heat Level - 4 out of 5 / several scenes
Format/Source - ebook borrowed through Kindle Unlimited
Length - 322 pages
Publisher - Indie
Every lore of every clan, across time and space, dreamed of dragons. Did you ever wonder why?
Erebu and Sorin fought through countless lifetimes of trials and tribulations to find one another again. They even conquered death.
But Ere’s rebirth requires a price: he must answer the Celestial Summons when it comes and faithfully complete each task the Jade Emperor sets before him.
On the bright side, he doesn’t have to perform miracles alone. Sorin will be right there with him. One the not so bright side, his Fate, the Fate of all dragon Kind, and by extension, the Universal Balance, depend on the successful execution of each quest.
No pressure.
His first task is find and retrieve the Jewel of Dreams.
Location: Unknown. Time travel will be required.
Clues: Too few. But there may be a dragon-slayer, a king, a wizard, and a few mythical monsters along the way.
Accompaniments: His beloved Sorin (who is all he needs!) A humorless, anti-social female dragon (who he doesn’t need). Though her kickass fighting skills do come in handy in a pinch.
Timing: ASAP. Determined by an arbitrary Sandglass in the Jade Emperor’s possession.
The end of the world may be just around the corner. Along the way, enemies may become lovers, reluctant friendships may form, and lots of hot, desperate, this-may-be-the-last-time-we-have-sex sex will definitely be had.
And who knows, you may never want to wake up from this…
Find your copy of Dream of Dragons here:
Goodreads * Amazon
My Two Cents
5 "Are you even surprised?" stars
I don't know how it's done, but I am completely in awe of everything Aja James created here.
I thought I was prepared. After the wondrous and life-changing experience of reading the Pure/Dark Ones series, I thought I knew what I was getting into.
I was wrong!
Getting to be with my beloved Erebu, my sweetest taboo, was just icing on the deliciousness that was this story. He and Sorin will always have my attention!
If you love retellings as much as I do, you're going to love this story. Actually, even if you don't care for them, you'll love this story. We're taken on a journey to Camelot to meet those who were believed to be mythical creations. There's King Arthur, Lancelot, Modred, Gawain, Morgan, and even Queen Guinevere. But nothing is as it seems and the way the author wove this tale... seeing is believing.
I am truly in love with the way this author blends mythology with legend and present truths and pop culture. She takes readers on a path that is both cerebral and emotional. And seriously, how can my emotions not be all over the place with everything she gifts us?
Meeting the celestial dragon, Rui, and watching her come to life and find her greatest treasure, Wolfe, was another uniquely beautiful experience like all the others I've been given by James. Each love story feels like the best wrapped present and seeing Rui find her humanity, witnessing her embrace everything that comes out of love, was extremely satisfying.
... as if her eyes had a mind of their own, they practically stretched out of their sockets to turn her head so she could sneak another glance at the warrior male.
Bright, citrine eyes met hers directly.
Shit.
Bright, citrine eyes met hers directly.
Shit.
Once again, I highlighted probably more than half the book, but sharing those would reveal way too many spoilers. I will say that I always wanted to know more about Tristan and I finally got to!! His back story was such a surprise and I was so happy to get those original glimpses of him. I still want to know how Ayelet came into the picture for him, how they realized they were fated mates, etc... But I'm just so happy with what I got that I'm willing to let those unanswered questions go... for now.
About the Author
Aja James just completed the Pure/ Dark Ones paranormal-fantasy romance series in 2020. If you want your heart battered, bruised, shattered and skewered, then put back together in the most glorious ways, check out the series below. Every couple gets an HEA, but they fight like hell for it on the way.
Aja is now working on her new series, Dragon Tails, because dragons are her favorite shifters of all!
Visit https://aja-james.blog/ for more information!
Isn't that all I ever wanted?
To be seen as something more,
someone more,
just... more.
To be seen as something more,
someone more,
just... more.
────── ♔ ──────
Trouble by Ari Reavis
Standalone - Unwavering Love #3
Release - December 6, 2021
Genre - Contemporary Romance / bad boy meets good girl
Dual POV - 1st person
Heat Level - 4 out of 5 / several scenes
Format/Source - eARC provided by the author
Length - 215 pages
Publisher - Indie
Release - December 6, 2021
Genre - Contemporary Romance / bad boy meets good girl
Dual POV - 1st person
Heat Level - 4 out of 5 / several scenes
Format/Source - eARC provided by the author
Length - 215 pages
Publisher - Indie
Trouble.
People don’t understand how much power a name holds. Justin has been known as Trouble for as far back as he can remember. He’s never seen any other choice than to live up to his name so he can be able to take care of his younger brother. But then…he meets her, and his name begins to feel like a burden he no longer wants to bear.
The moment a handsome stranger walks into Lena’s office, she wants to know what story lays beneath his many tattoos and sexy grin. Putting a hard past behind her, she’s starting her future, but now she can’t help but wonder how Justin might fit into it. She couldn’t have imagined just how much he would change her life, how much he would change everything.
She only knows him as Justin. How long can Trouble stay hidden? When their worlds collide and the secrets between them are exposed, can they survive them?
Find your copy of Trouble here:
Goodreads * Amazon
My Two Cents
5 "Always love a bad boy" stars
"Trouble" was anything but.
Justin knew what it was to struggle and survive. Abandoned by those who were supposed to care the most, he took on the responsibility of raising his little brother. However, with no education and no marketable skills, there was only one job he was qualified for in the hood. And thriving? He would leave that for his brother.
Lena knew what it was to struggle and survive. Alone and abandoned, she grew up in the system. Instead of taking the hard road, she was determined to succeed.
So different and yet so compatible. When they meet, they recognize something in the other that was necessary in their lives. Their relationship blossomed organically and beautifully and I was in love with the way they loved each other.
"I will always be here to help you see the best parts of yourself, Justin." - Lena
So beautiful!
My heart hurt for all that Justin had to go through, for all that his brother had to go through, but I loved how they powered through everything. I loved their dynamic and found myself rooting for their success. And can someone find me a Miss Lydia and/or a Miss Lou to come save a chick?
Oh and let's not forget the ending of this book... If I wasn't already going to rate it highly, the lump in my throat at the end as I forced myself not to cry made its five-star-worthiness quite clear. I can't recommend this author enough. She writes such authentic characters and heartwarming stories and everyone who loves romance should be reading her.
About the Author
Ari Reavis is a wife and mother of five. Born in New York and raised in New Jersey, she enjoys staying in, devouring books and watching movies. Her kids are running around, her husband is trying to show her martial arts moves, and she's trying to write. Her day in a nutshell.
Visit https://arireavis.wordpress.com/ for more information
“Gena Showalter never fails to dazzle.”-- Jeaniene Frost, New York Times bestselling author
The Darkest Destiny, an all new steamy paranormal romance from New York Times bestselling author Gena Showalter and 1,001 Dark Nights, is available now!
Forsaken. Deathless. A monster in every way. Mostly, Brochan is determined. He craves what fate promised him—the woman who will help him conquer a heavenly kingdom. He will stop at nothing to win her.
Viola, Keeper of the demon of Narcissism, lives for a single purpose—treating herself and her pet to the best life possible. But a crazed warrior is now appearing everywhere she ventures, ruining her fun . . . tempting her beyond reason and keeping her at a razor-edge of desire.
Though legions of males have attempted to win her, all have failed. Somehow, this rampaging beast is tearing down her walls, one by one, claiming he owns her heart and her very destiny. To be with him, however, she must defeat the only force strong enough to destroy her—love.
**Every 1001 Dark Nights novella is a standalone story. For new readers, it’s an introduction to an author’s world. And for fans, it’s a bonus book in the author’s series. We hope you'll enjoy each one as much as we do.**
Grab your copy today, exclusively on Amazon!
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3rNxNyZ
Amazon Worldwide: http://mybook.to/DarkDestiny
Check out my 5-star review!
Sneak Peek
Is he as torn as I am?
No, he couldn’t be. The rogue had also delivered cleaning supplies and clothing: T-shirts and sweatpants she’d rather die than wear, as well as a French maid costume. The cruel beast obviously taunted her.
She was right the first time. Definitely hate him.
When next she caught sight of him, she would tell him. During every delivery, he had somehow remained hidden, as if he’d known when she slumbered, the coast clear. Even though she didn’t have a set schedule or know when she would succumb to the need for rest. Did he ever ponder their kiss? Or crave more of her?
A fresh tide of anger frothed. He’d gifted her with the best kiss of her life, the truth of his adoration drowning out the demon’s lies. Then he had rejected her. Abandoned her.
He must know what separation from an adoring public did to her. He’d followed her for months. But still, he stayed away?
That settled it. No more kisses for him!
Tremors shook her as she motored forward. When her knees almost buckled, she whimpered. The weakened demon was feeding, weakening her. The heartless fiend had even begun revealing those long-buried memories, the terrible truth now so clear…
As she’d smiled and chatted in those recollections, she’d destroyed people with her words. Males and females, mortals and immortals, had withered under her praises. Because her praises were insults!
Scraping noises halted her. Her ears twitched. Did she detect huffing too?
Someone was here!
Gasping, she pressed herself against the nearest wall, hiding in a shadowy corner. Though she was brave—the bravest!—she knew there were times to be leery. This was one such time. She had little strength and few weapons at her disposal.
Had the Forsaken found her? Maybe Brochan had returned for good. Perhaps a stranger had stumbled upon the realm. What if Fluffy had arrived?
Please be Fluffy.
Add The Darkest Destiny to Goodreads: https://bit.ly/37esXBc
About Gena Showalter
Gena Showalter is the New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author of a multitude of sub-genres within romance: paranormal, Fantasy, contemporary, and young adult. She’s also written standalone novels, novellas and anthologies, as well as co-authored a nonfiction guide about how to write a book in a year.
Gena lives in Oklahoma with her husband, two adult children who grew up way too fast, and menagerie of dogs and cats who enjoy farting while she works, walking across her keyboard during pivotal scenes and demanding pets at all hours of the day and night. Her novels have appeared in Cosmopolitan’s Red Hot Reads and Seventeen magazine. She’s been interviewed on Nightline and mentioned on Orange is the New Black—the very moment her family decided she might be a real writer after all.
Chances are good she’s hard at work on her next novel. Chances are even better that the book is a twisted tale featuring an alpha male with a dark side and the strong woman who (lovingly…sometimes) kneecaps him.
Connect with Gena
Facebook: https://bit.ly/3rsrPFG
Instagram: https://bit.ly/31q4xFy
Goodreads: https://bit.ly/3oeq7Wu
Bookbub: https://bit.ly/3G4Givl
Twitter: https://bit.ly/3loGbTq
Stay up to date with Gena by joining her mailing list: https://bit.ly/3G6Ea6i
For More information about 1001 Dark Nights Visit
Facebook: https://bit.ly/37fl0uT
Instagram: https://bit.ly/2Y7uBQp
Website: https://bit.ly/2AIIr3A
Stay up to date on all 1001 Dark Nights releases, join their mailing list today! https://bit.ly/2zgxaHu
If she could date herself, she would.
There was a good chance she was her own fated mate!
There was a good chance she was her own fated mate!
────── ♔ ──────
The Darkest Destiny by Gena Showalter
Standalone - Lords of the Underworld #15.5
Release - December 7, 2021
Genre - Contemporary Romance / enemies-to-lovers
Dual POV - 3rd person
Heat Level - 4 out of 5 / 1.5 scenes
Format/Source - eARC provided by Social Butterfly PR
Length - 204 pages
Publisher - Evil Eye Concepts, Incorporated
Release - December 7, 2021
Genre - Contemporary Romance / enemies-to-lovers
Dual POV - 3rd person
Heat Level - 4 out of 5 / 1.5 scenes
Format/Source - eARC provided by Social Butterfly PR
Length - 204 pages
Publisher - Evil Eye Concepts, Incorporated
Forsaken. Deathless. A monster in every way. Mostly, Brochan is determined. He craves what fate promised him—the woman who will help him conquer a heavenly kingdom. He will stop at nothing to win her.
Viola, Keeper of the demon of Narcissism, lives for a single purpose—treating herself and her pet to the best life possible. But a crazed warrior is now appearing everywhere she ventures, ruining her fun…. tempting her beyond reason and keeping her at a razor-edge of desire.
Though legions of males have attempted to win her, all have failed. Somehow, this rampaging beast is tearing down her walls, one by one, claiming he owns her heart and her very destiny. To be with him, however, she must defeat the only force strong enough to destroy her—love.
Grab your copy today, exclusively on Amazon!
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3IvAwVB
Amazon Worldwide: http://mybook.to/DarkDestiny
Add The Darkest Destiny to Goodreads: https://bit.ly/37esXBc
Amazon Worldwide: http://mybook.to/DarkDestiny
Add The Darkest Destiny to Goodreads: https://bit.ly/37esXBc
My Two Cents
5 "Why You So Obsessed With Me?" stars
It has been far too long since I've taken a dive into the world of the Lords, and The Darkest Destiny has reminded me of all that I love and miss about this author's writing. This story was bloody brilliant!
Viola was a riot! She was the type of character I happen to love to read about.
🙀 hilariously irreverent
🙀 irritating and kinda ruthless - remember, she's possessed (oppressed) by Narcissus
🙀 vulnerable and vain - good luck making sense of that!
🙀 absolutely, positively gorgeous
🙀 completely irresistible
Forget her stunning beauty and brilliant mind. If possible. She had so many magnificent qualities. So much more to offer. Her sparkling wit and magical laugh delighted all who heard her—and also those who didn't. Intelligent beyond words, she'd even helped her own mother birth her. And Viola had done most of the work! Forget Helen of Troy. Viola had launched two thousand ships with a wink.
And the way she connected with Brochan... the way she truly saw him and all that made him glorious... I'm in love with this couple.
In battle, he was magnificent, full stop. Fierce and unrelenting. Utterly savage. Such strength! He was determined to reach her, whatever the cost. Did he even know how sexy that was?
I happened to love every moment of this story. From Brochan's first glimpse of Viola, to her perceived betrayal, to his mission to kill and protect her, to the moment she beheaded him (don't even ask), to their declarations of all they found worthy in each other... I loved it all!
And now I only want to read more of this series!!
About the Author
Gena Showalter is the New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author of a multitude of sub-genres within romance: paranormal, Fantasy, contemporary, and young adult. She’s also written standalone novels, novellas and anthologies, as well as co-authored a nonfiction guide about how to write a book in a year.Gena lives in Oklahoma with her husband, two adult children who grew up way too fast, and menagerie of dogs and cats who enjoy farting while she works, walking across her keyboard during pivotal scenes and demanding pets at all hours of the day and night. Her novels have appeared in Cosmopolitan’s Red Hot Reads and Seventeen magazine. She’s been interviewed on Nightline and mentioned on Orange is the New Black—the very moment her family decided she might be a real writer after all.
Chances are good she’s hard at work on her next novel. Chances are even better that the book is a twisted tale featuring an alpha male with a dark side and the strong woman who (lovingly…sometimes) kneecaps him.
Connect with Gena
Facebook: https://bit.ly/3rsrPFG
Instagram: https://bit.ly/31q4xFy
Goodreads: https://bit.ly/3oeq7Wu
Bookbub: https://bit.ly/3G4Givl
Twitter: https://bit.ly/3loGbTq
Stay up to date with Gena by joining her mailing list: https://bit.ly/3G6Ea6i
Instagram: https://bit.ly/31q4xFy
Goodreads: https://bit.ly/3oeq7Wu
Bookbub: https://bit.ly/3G4Givl
Twitter: https://bit.ly/3loGbTq
Stay up to date with Gena by joining her mailing list: https://bit.ly/3G6Ea6i
For More information about 1001 Dark Nights Visit
Facebook: https://bit.ly/37fl0uT
Instagram: https://bit.ly/2Y7uBQp
Website: https://bit.ly/2AIIr3A
Stay up to date on all 1001 Dark Nights releases, join their mailing list today! https://bit.ly/2zgxaHu
Instagram: https://bit.ly/2Y7uBQp
Website: https://bit.ly/2AIIr3A
Stay up to date on all 1001 Dark Nights releases, join their mailing list today! https://bit.ly/2zgxaHu
Love is a strange creature one thinks one has a grasp on and understanding of, only to discover later that it was only the barest taste of the real thing.
────── ♔ ──────
Stone Cold Touch by Jennifer L. Armentrout
The Dark Elements #2
Release - October 21, 2014
Genre - Young Adult Paranormal / love triangle
Heroine POV - 1st person
Heat Level - 1 out of 5 / heroine blushes at a bare chest
Format/Source - ebook borrowed from the library
Length - 453 pages
Publisher - Harlequin Teen
Release - October 21, 2014
Genre - Young Adult Paranormal / love triangle
Heroine POV - 1st person
Heat Level - 1 out of 5 / heroine blushes at a bare chest
Format/Source - ebook borrowed from the library
Length - 453 pages
Publisher - Harlequin Teen
Every touch has its price
Layla Shaw is trying to pick up the pieces of her shattered life—no easy task for a seventeen-year-old who’s pretty sure things can’t get worse. Her impossibly gorgeous best friend, Zayne, is forever off-limits thanks to the mysterious powers of her soul-stealing kiss. The Warden clan that has always protected her is suddenly keeping dangerous secrets. And she can barely think about Roth, the wickedly hot demon prince who understood her in ways no one else could.
But sometimes rock bottom is only the beginning. Because suddenly Layla’s powers begin to evolve, and she’s offered a tantalizing taste of what has always been forbidden. Then, when she least expects it, Roth returns, bringing news that could change her world forever. She’s finally getting what she always wanted, but with hell literally breaking loose and the body count adding up, the price may be higher than Layla is willing to pay…
Find your copy of Stone Cold Touch here:
Goodreads * Amazon
My Two Cents
3 "I can see... Can you?" stars
If you read my review of White Hot Kiss, you're probably wondering if I feel the same way.
I do.
I went in thinking to myself that I needed to be more patient. More tolerant.
She's a teenager and teenagers can be ridiculous. Remember you were one once.
The problem is... I grew up.
And I don't mean in years.
I mean, when things happened, I learned from them.
I evolved.
Sadly, Layla did not!
Our heroes won the battle, but not the war in the last book. Stone Cold Touch deals with the repercussions of all that happened before. Although Layla lacked self-awareness, it was easy to see what and who and where and why and everything else. All I had to do was observe and I understood. That doesn't mean the ending didn't still leave me shook, because it did. And again, despite how much I can't stand Layla... I'll be reading the next book.
I know, I know. I'm not making sense.
The author writes in a way that no matter how I feel about one character, there's still so much to enjoy. Like the hotness of Roth. Or the sweetness of Zayne. I believe both men deserve far more than they've gotten. And I'm not enjoying the love triangle that is going on here. One, it lacks real chemistry. Actually, the chemistry is all one-sided. The guys are giving and Layla isn't cutting it. I'm telling you, the endless blushing needs to stop. GROW UP!! And two... Well, these guys would be the perfect friends IMO. The only thing stopping them (aside from being natural born enemies) is Layla and what they believe they feel for her.
I honestly wish this wasn't categorized as any kind of romance. If it was just about a girl who is coming into her own, who happens to have powerful friends who are men, I'd be happier lol. Or maybe not. Maybe I would always find Layla to be terrible.
Okay, I'm off to read the next book. Wish me luck!
About the Author
# 1 New York Times and # 1 International Bestselling author Jennifer lives in Charles Town, West Virginia. All the rumors you’ve heard about her state aren’t true. When she’s not hard at work writing. she spends her time reading, watching really bad zombie movies, pretending to write, hanging out with her husband and her Jack Russell Loki. In early 2015, Jennifer was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa, a group of rare genetic disorders that involve a breakdown and death of cells in the retina, eventually resulting in loss of vision, among other complications. Due to this diagnosis, educating people on the varying degrees of blindness has become of passion of hers, right alongside writing, which she plans to do as long as she can.Her dreams of becoming an author started in algebra class, where she spent most of her time writing short stories….which explains her dismal grades in math. Jennifer writes young adult paranormal, science fiction, fantasy, and contemporary romance. She is published with Tor, HarperCollins Avon and William Morrow, Entangled Teen and Brazen, Disney/Hyperion and Harlequin Teen. Her Wicked Series has been optioned by PassionFlix. Jennifer has won numerous awards, including the 2013 Reviewers Choice Award for Wait for You, the 2015 Editor’s Pick for Fall With Me, and the 2014/2015 Moerser-Jugendbuch- Jury award for Obsidian. Her young adult romantic suspense novel DON’T LOOK BACK was a 2014 nominated Best in Young Adult Fiction by YALSA. Her adult romantic suspense novel TILL DEATH was a Amazon Editor’s Pick and iBook Book of the Month. Her young adult contemporary THE PROBLEM WITH FOREVER is a 2017 RITA Award Winner in Young Adult Fiction. She also writes Adult and New Adult contemporary and paranormal romance under the name J. Lynn. She is published by Entangled Brazen and HarperCollins.
She is the owner of ApollyCon and The Origin Event, the successful annual events that features over hundred bestselling authors in Young Adult, New Adult, and Adult Fiction, panels, parties, and more.
Visit https://jenniferlarmentrout.com for more information
People with the purest souls are capable of the greatest evils. No one is perfect, no matter what they are or what side they fight for.
────── ♔ ──────
White Hot Kiss by Jennifer L. Armentrout
The Dark Elements #1
Release - February 25, 2014
Genre - Young Adult Paranormal Romance
Heroine POV - 1st person
Heat Level - 1 out of 5 / please save me from this
Format/Source - ebook borrowed through Kindle Unlimited
Length - 388 pages
Publisher - Harlequin Teen
Release - February 25, 2014
Genre - Young Adult Paranormal Romance
Heroine POV - 1st person
Heat Level - 1 out of 5 / please save me from this
Format/Source - ebook borrowed through Kindle Unlimited
Length - 388 pages
Publisher - Harlequin Teen
Layla just wants to fit in at school and go on a date with Zayne, whom she's crushed on since forever. Trouble is, Zayne treats Layla like a sister--and Layla is a half demon, half gargoyle with abilities no one else possesses. And even though Zayne is a Warden, part of the race of gargoyles tasked with keeping humanity safe, Layla's kiss will kill anything with a soul--including him.
Then she meets Roth--a demon who claims to know her secrets. Though Layla knows she should stay away, it's tough when that whole no-kissing thing isn't an issue. Trusting Roth could ruin her chances with Zayne, but as Layla discovers she's the reason for a violent demon uprising, kissing the enemy suddenly pales in comparison to the looming end of the world.
Find your copy of White Hot Kiss here:
Goodreads * Amazon
My Two Cents
3 "Give. Me. A. Freaking. Break!!" stars
After being bombarded by so many five star reviews for this book, I expected to be blown away by how fantastic and irresistible and unputdownable it would be.
I wasn't.
I was less than thrilled by the heroine and found that the story suffered by being told solely from her point of view.
I know, I'm the worst. Heroines don't stand a chance with me. I'm so picky. Blah, blah-di-blah.
It's just that Layla was pretty much everything I don't like about teenagers. Whiney. Pathetic. Defiant (without cause). Ridiculous. Immature. I really could go on here.
And I swear, if she blushed one more time over a guy looking at her, asking her questions, casually touching her, or almost kissing her... I honestly don't know what I would do.
She was completely lackluster until the one scene at the end. Finally... finally she contributed something.
Why did everything center around her when she was absolutely no help to herself or others?
And why did she constantly do the one thing a heroine should never do? This chick was constantly calling out a man's name when he's trying to keep the demon's from killing her. Ummm... do you know anything about not distracting a hero when he's got his hands full?
All three stars go to Roth (who was utterly scrumptious), Zayne (who was magically delicious), and the plot and characters that filled up this story. They gave me enough to keep on going.
Yes, you read that right. I plan to read the next book.
We'll see how I feel about Layla then. I'm all for a redemption arc.
About the Author
# 1 New York Times and # 1 International Bestselling author Jennifer lives in Charles Town, West Virginia. All the rumors you’ve heard about her state aren’t true. When she’s not hard at work writing. she spends her time reading, watching really bad zombie movies, pretending to write, hanging out with her husband and her Jack Russell Loki. In early 2015, Jennifer was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa, a group of rare genetic disorders that involve a breakdown and death of cells in the retina, eventually resulting in loss of vision, among other complications. Due to this diagnosis, educating people on the varying degrees of blindness has become of passion of hers, right alongside writing, which she plans to do as long as she can.
Her dreams of becoming an author started in algebra class, where she spent most of her time writing short stories….which explains her dismal grades in math. Jennifer writes young adult paranormal, science fiction, fantasy, and contemporary romance. She is published with Tor, HarperCollins Avon and William Morrow, Entangled Teen and Brazen, Disney/Hyperion and Harlequin Teen. Her Wicked Series has been optioned by PassionFlix. Jennifer has won numerous awards, including the 2013 Reviewers Choice Award for Wait for You, the 2015 Editor’s Pick for Fall With Me, and the 2014/2015 Moerser-Jugendbuch- Jury award for Obsidian. Her young adult romantic suspense novel DON’T LOOK BACK was a 2014 nominated Best in Young Adult Fiction by YALSA. Her adult romantic suspense novel TILL DEATH was a Amazon Editor’s Pick and iBook Book of the Month. Her young adult contemporary THE PROBLEM WITH FOREVER is a 2017 RITA Award Winner in Young Adult Fiction. She also writes Adult and New Adult contemporary and paranormal romance under the name J. Lynn. She is published by Entangled Brazen and HarperCollins.
She is the owner of ApollyCon and The Origin Event, the successful annual events that features over hundred bestselling authors in Young Adult, New Adult, and Adult Fiction, panels, parties, and more.
Visit https://jenniferlarmentrout.com for more information
She wasn’t what I’d wanted in a wife, but hell, if she wasn’t exactly what I needed.
────── ♔ ──────
Sweet Temptation by Cora Reilly
Standalone
Release - March 8, 2020
Genre - Contemporary Mafia Romance / arranged marriage / virgin heroine
Dual POV - 1st person
Heat - 4 out of 5 / several scenes
Format/Source - ebook from Kindle Unlimited
Length - 292 pages
Publisher - Indie
Release - March 8, 2020
Genre - Contemporary Mafia Romance / arranged marriage / virgin heroine
Dual POV - 1st person
Heat - 4 out of 5 / several scenes
Format/Source - ebook from Kindle Unlimited
Length - 292 pages
Publisher - Indie
The first time Cassio met his fiancĂ©e, she called him ‘Sir’.
After losing his wife, Cassio is left to take care of two small children while trying to establish his rule over Philadelphia. Now he needs a mother for his children, and someone who can warm his bed at night.
But in a traditional world as his, choosing your wife is duty not pleasure.
Rules have to be followed. Traditions heeded.
That’s how he ends up with a woman—a girl barely of age. She might not be what he and his children need, but she’s wicked lovely and a sweet temptation he can’t resist.
Giulia always knew she’d marry a man her father chose for her. Only she never expected to be given to someone much older.
Suddenly she’s supposed to be a mother to two small children when she hasn’t even held a baby in her life.
Giulia quickly realizes that Cassio isn’t interested in a relationship on equal footing. Her mother always warned her that men of power like Cassio don’t tolerate insolence; yet, tired of being treated as a nanny and clueless child-bride, Giulia decides to fight for her vision of a happy family.
You can find your copy of Sweet Temptation here:
Goodreads * Amazon
Free to read with Kindle Unlimited
My Two Cents
4 "Marriage of Opportunity" stars
Although this author has been on my watchlist for a minute (oh, don't act like you don't have an author-to-watch list too), I kinda slept on her. After reading Bound by Honor, I knew that this author was going to be something great. I enjoyed her writing then and I definitely enjoyed it now.
Cassio's wife was dead and he was left to care for two young children. As underboss, he was expected to find a new wife. How convenient it was that everyone seemed to have a solution for him. His biggest problem? His future wife wasn't even legal age!
I think the fact that Giulia was barely 18 worked really well for this story. I didn't like how often they both referred to him as an old man. He himself was barely 30 and don't men love the chance to be with younger women? It was a bit weird.
I loved the lead up to the big reveal behind the death of Cassio's first wife. Good riddance! My heart broke for this man and I was thrilled by how much he was able to grow and thrive with Giulia. She was the absolute best person for him, injecting new life in what had become of his existence. And those kids... Poor sweet Daniele. I'm so happy that Giulia was more than she seemed and I'm a huge fan of how she loved these people.
Cassio was extremely alpha, but Giulia wasn't a doormat and this made for some interesting scenes. I will definitely be reading more from this author!
About the Author
Cora Reilly is the author of the Born in Blood Mafia Series, The Camorra Chronicles and many other books, most of them featuring dangerously sexy bad boys. Before she found her passion in romance books, she was a traditionally published author of young adult literature.
Cora lives in Germany with a cute but crazy Bearded Collie, as well as the cute but crazy man at her side. When she doesn't spend her days dreaming up sexy books, she plans her next travel adventure or cooks too spicy dishes from all over the world.
Despite her law degree, Cora prefers to talk books to laws any day.
Visit https://corareilly.com for more information
There they sat in the firelight.
Enemies.
He'd almost destroyed her.
She'd nearly murdered him.
And for some reason, this moment felt the most surreal of the entire crazed night—because she recognized that on some level his presence... comforted.
Enemies.
He'd almost destroyed her.
She'd nearly murdered him.
And for some reason, this moment felt the most surreal of the entire crazed night—because she recognized that on some level his presence... comforted.
────── ♔ ──────
Wicked Deeds on a Winter's Night by Kresley Cole
Standalone - Immortals After Dark #3
Release - September 24, 2007
Genre - Paranormal Romance / enemies-to-lovers
Dual POV - 3rd person
Heat Level - 3.5 out of 5 / several scenes / slow burn
Format/Source - ebook borrowed from the library
Length - 401 pages
Publisher - Pocket Books
Release - September 24, 2007
Genre - Paranormal Romance / enemies-to-lovers
Dual POV - 3rd person
Heat Level - 3.5 out of 5 / several scenes / slow burn
Format/Source - ebook borrowed from the library
Length - 401 pages
Publisher - Pocket Books
Bowen MacRieve of the Lykae clan was nearly destroyed when he lost the one woman meant for him. The ruthless warrior grew even colder, never taking another to his bed—until a smoldering encounter with his enemy, Mariketa the Awaited, reawakens his darkest desires. When sinister forces unite against her, the Highlander finds himself using all his strength and skill to keep her alive.
Temporarily stripped of her powers, Mari is forced to take refuge with her sworn adversary. It’s rumored that no one can tempt Bowen’s hardened heart, but soon passion burns between them. Though a future together is impossible, she fears he has no intention of letting her go.
If they defeat the evil that surrounds them, can Mari deny Bowen when he demands her body and soul—or will she risk everything for her fierce protector?
You can find your copy of Wicked Deeds on a Winter's Night here:
Goodreads * Amazon
My Two Cents
3.5 "Bowen can get it" stars
Seriously, he can soooo get it!
Bowen's a Lykae (wolf) and Mari is a captromancer (fancy witch name). They go together like oil and water. Their death-defying matches gave me life. Their hatred and lust for each other gave me joy. I couldn't get enough of their antics. And then I had enough and it was still happening.
I desperately need someone to tell me if ALL of the books in this series deal with enemies-to-lovers. Will I have to put up with the heroines behaving hatefully towards the heroes in every. single. book?
Cuz right now... it's getting kind of ridiculous.
When enemies become lovers, it's always hot. And it was definitely HAWT with these two. However, I could do without Mari and her nonsense. Bowen could be high-handed, but I loved how he was able to acknowledge and accept his flaws. And lets be real, everyone knew that the Lykae were like this. So why was she constantly surprised?
And let's also not forget the fact that for most of the book, the most powerful witch of them all was pretty useless. She was probably the youngest person in the Lore and acted her age.
It wasn't cute.
So I'm hoping beyond hope that the heroines are more receptive and mature in the books to come or I'm about to lose my damn mind!
Beeteedubs... the blurb is hella misleading.
Check out my other reviews for the Immortals After Dark series:
About the Author
Kresley Cole is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of the electrifying Immortals After Dark paranormal series, the young adult Arcana Chronicles series, the erotic Gamemakers series, and five award-winning historical romances.
A master’s grad and former athlete, she has traveled over much of the world and draws from those experiences to create her memorable characters and settings.
Her books have been translated into 23 foreign languages, garnered 3 RITA awards, a Hall of Fame induction, and consistently appear on the bestseller lists, in the U.S. and abroad.
Cole lives in Florida with her family.
Visit http://www.kresleycole.com for more information
William S. Burroughs once said that no one owns life, but anyone who can lift a frying pan can create death. He was right. Killing is the easy part. The act of living—of finding happiness in life—that’s the hard part.
────── ♔ ──────
The Good Lie by A.R. Torre
Standalone
Release - July 20, 2021
Genre - Mystery/Thriller
Primarily Singular POV - 1st person
Heat Level - 1.5 / why is this author afraid of the heat?
Format/Source - ebook borrowed through Kindle Unlimited
Length - 254 pages
Publisher - Thomas & Mercer
Release - July 20, 2021
Genre - Mystery/Thriller
Primarily Singular POV - 1st person
Heat Level - 1.5 / why is this author afraid of the heat?
Format/Source - ebook borrowed through Kindle Unlimited
Length - 254 pages
Publisher - Thomas & Mercer
Six teens murdered.
A suspect behind bars.
A desperate father.
In a case this shadowy, the truth is easy to hide.
Psychiatrist Dr. Gwen Moore is an expert on killers. She’s spent a decade treating California’s most depraved predators and unlocking their motives—predators much like the notorious Bloody Heart serial killer, whose latest teenage victim escaped and then identified local high school teacher Randall Thompson as his captor. The case against Thompson as the Bloody Heart Killer is damning—and closed, as far as Gwen and the media are concerned. If not for one new development…
Defense attorney Robert Kavin is a still-traumatized father whose own son fell prey to the BH Killer. Convinced of Thompson’s innocence, he steps in to represent him. Now Robert wants Gwen to interview the accused, create a psych profile of the killer and his victims, and help clear his client’s name.
As Gwen and Robert grow closer and she dives deeper into the investigation, grave questions arise. So does Gwen’s suspicion that Robert is hiding something—and that he might not be the only one with a secret.
Find The Good Lie here: Goodreads * Amazon
My Two Cents
3 "Everyone's messed up" stars
After reading a review from Deanna at A Novel Glimpse, something pushed me to add this book to my tbr. From there, it was inevitable that I would borrow it from KU. When I was looking for something different, I picked it up. And now I'm here. At the end. And I don't even know where to begin!
All of the characters were messed up. ALL OF THEM!
While I expected some of them to be, because Gwen was a psychiatrist, I didn't expect even the doctor to have so many problems.
There was one character who deserved a ton of praise... Nina. That lady was the real detective of this novel!
I was able to predict most of what happened. Maybe not all of the details, but I wasn't left surprised by the end. It was obvious, but I did enjoy the journey.
My biggest issue with this story was the endless minutiae of Gwen's life. Not a direct quote (obvs), but it was something like this: I walked to my dresser. I grabbed a barrette. I put the barrette in my hair. I put my bangs to the side. No, I don't like that. I put my bangs to the other side. LMAO!! So freaking accurate!!
There's murder, there's mystery and a bit of a thrill to give it a bump. The writing was exceptional. The characters are... a mess. If this book sounds like your thang, read it.
About the Author
A.R. Torre is a pseudonym of Alessandra Torre and is her dark alter ego. While Alessandra enjoys spicy romances, A.R. love twisted stories filled with secrets, suspense, drama, and danger.
Alessandra/A.R. is a multi-time Goodreads Choice Nominee. Her books have hit the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Amazon Charts bestseller lists. Over a million readers have enjoyed her novels in more than thirty countries.
In addition to writing, Alessandra teaches online courses to aspiring and published authors via www.alessandratorreink.com. She hosts an annual conference and has built a community of over 40,000 authors.
Visit www.alessandratorre.com for more information
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Social Icons