June 10, 2015 by Tina Williams

NEW RELEASE & REVIEW ~ Hold Me Until Midnight by Christina Phillips

Erotic Contemporary Romance

18+/Adult Read

Congratulations to author Christina Phillips on the release of Hold Me Until Midnight, the first book in the author’s sizzling Grayson Brothers series. Scroll down to read the blurb and my review and connect with Christina. Tina ❤

Book Blurb

Scarlett Ashford needs a date for her father’s wedding. Only she doesn’t just need a guy in a suit—she needs a bodyguard. The only problem is that Jackson Grayson is big and gorgeous and way too sexy. So much so that Scarlett’s tempted to let this hot bad boy ruin her oh-so-good reputation…

Jackson doesn’t do relationships and he certainly doesn’t sleep with clients. Yet he can’t fight their inconvenient attraction, or how badly he wants Scarlett’s warm and wicked curves against his body. He wants her. Now. Even if it’s just for one night, and even if walking away the next morning isn’t as easy as he thought.

Besides, one hot and incredibly intense night between a bad boy and a pampered princess could never turn into something real…could it?

My Review *****

Another scorching erotic contemporary romance from Christina Phillips! I just loved reading about what happened when ‘bad boy’ Jackson and socialite Scarlett fall hard for each other.

In an attempt to ward off potential scheming and matchmaking from her stepmother-to-be, Scarlett hires the larger than life Jackson (major hottie alert!) from a security firm to masquerade as her date at her father’s wedding. Yet as soon as Jackson and Scarlett set eyes on each other sparks fly and passion ignites in an erotic romance that combines sexual tension and scorching scenes with a lot of heart. The inner dialogue of this couple and their ensuing banter as they circle around each other and try and hide their emotions is vastly entertaining and absolutely priceless!

Scarlett is basically a ‘good girl’ and hiring Jackson is the most daring thing she has ever done. She doesn’t do one night stands or even ‘friends with benefits.’ I loved the fact that meeting Jackson challenges all her preconceived ideas about what a good girl should do and it was hugely entertaining to watch her unravel…

Jackson, a man with a dark past, does not do relationships. Not only that but he and his brothers, who run a well-respected security firm, have a golden rule – never to compromise their professional relationship with a client. Yet how can Jackson reconcile this with the intsa-lust he feels for Scarlett, especially when it appears she feels the same? I was desperate to find out what happens when morning comes and whether bodyguard and client go their separate ways and into their very different worlds for good.

I, like Scarlett, immediately fell for Jackson’s considerable charms and enjoyed his brand of caring but dominant alpha male. Scarlett is sweet and sassy and his perfect match. There is plenty of character and plot development amidst the hot scenes as their lives begin to intertwine, the love stakes increase and barriers to a possible HEA appear.

To summarise: This is another fast-paced, romantic read from Christina Phillips with many sizzling scenes, ranging from cheeky to romantic and downright sexy. Recommended to readers of erotic romance who like a sweet and hot story of how two people from opposite sides of the tracks unexpectedly come together against all the odds!

Reviewed by Tina Williams

An ARC of this book was given to me by the publishers via NetGalley for the purpose of a fair and honest review.

Buy Links

Amazon UK

Amazon US

Author Links

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June 8, 2015 by Tina Williams

DOUBLE REVIEW ~ Tiara’s Golden Submission and Veiled Dominance, By Evelise Archer

Erotic Romance (18+/Adult Read)

Tiara’s Golden Submission

(m/f BDSM)

Book Blurb

On the cusp of turning fifty, Tiara, a submissive without a Dom or husband, desired to return to the lifestyle. Placing her destiny in the hands of Madame Eve and the 1Night Stand Service, will Tiara find all that she seeks? Or will a past love interfere with her future plans?

Review

Inspirational and Fun BDSM Romance ****

This novella from Evilise Archer is a sizzling BDSM themed romance, which illustrates that age is certainly no barrier when it comes to finding love. This inspirational tale focuses on Tiara, a widow who is approaching her 50th birthday, who decides that she wants to get back into the BDSM scene, which she belonged to with her deceased husband. She books herself on Madame Eve’s 1 Night Stand Service and her adventure begins as she prepares to spend the night in an exclusive BDSM club with a mystery lover!

I loved the premise of this read from the off and liked how the plot developed. The scenes inside the club between Tiara and her mystery Dominant are steamy and inventive and she embraces her submission and finds sexual fulfilment in the hands of a very skilled Dom. Will Tiara be happy with her submission alone or will she and her mystery lover seek a more permanent future for themselves? I will not say anymore but suffice to say that this is a fun, heart warming read which sizzles. Recommended for readers of erotic romance.

Reviewed by Tina Williams

A copy of this book was given to me by the author for the purpose of a fair and honest review

Amazon UK Amazon US

Veiled Dominance (Club Rebellion book #2)

(m/m Erotic Romance)

Blurb

Shane Wise is a Dom and part owner of a popular BDSM club in Rittenhouse Square, Club Rebellion. A tumultuous past has led him to an almost perfect present, except Shane has a secret. A secret that could destroy his reputation in the world in which he loves to live-BDSM.

Deacon Archer is also a Dom and part owner of Club Rebellion and he is in love with Shane Wise. Together Shane and Deacon must decide if the love they feel can withstand the scrutiny they fear, if their relationship is revealed.

Can two dominants truly forge a relationship? Will secret desires open up a new world and allow Shane to be the man he was intended to be or will veiled dominance get in the way?

Review

Love Will Out! *****

This is an excellent m/m read and although it is the second novella in the Club Rebellion series, it works perfectly well as a stand alone as it focuses on the relationship between the couple Shane and Deacon. That said my interest in the other characters was also piqued!

Shane and Deacon are both established Dominants at Club Rebellion, an exclusive BDSM club. They are very much in love and cannot keep their hands off each other (cue some extremely hot and frequent love-making scenes)! They have kept their relationship a secret as Shane does not want his friends and colleagues at the club to know that he enjoys playing the submissive role in his relationship with Dylan. He is also tortured by events from his past. The secrecy is eating away at him and preventing his loving relationship with Deacon going to the next level. Something has to give and Shane needs to decide whether to open up to his friends and lover.

This is a heart felt story of love, passion and friendship set in a close knit BDSM community. Shane and Deacon’s hopes and fears are very believable and I was invested in their HEA. There is also a fascinating cast of supporting characters.

Reviewed by Tina Williams

A copy of this book was given to me by the author for the purpose of a fair and honest review

Amazon US Amazon UK

Connect with the Author

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7056316.Evelise_Archer

https://www.facebook.com/evarcher5

http://evelisearcher.blogspot.co.uk/?zx=93fd7fcd61aff627

June 2, 2015 by Tina Williams

RELEASE BLITZ & REVIEW ~ Toy Boy, by Lily Harlem (includes excerpt)

Erotic Cougar Romance

Adult/18+ Read

I had the pleasure of reviewing an ARC of this book a few weeks ago and it is one sizzling read! I quickly devoured the sensual adventures of Kay and Sullivan, the couple in this book as they get to meet and explore each other for the first time under the Greek sun. To find out more about their exploits scroll down to read the blurb, an excerpt and my review. Tina ❤

Toy Boy is Lily Harlem’s sexy new release and is out now! It’s a cougar story set in beautiful Greece and tells the tale of Kay and Sullivan on their ‘first’ date. Here’s the low down…

Back cover information

Getting something unexpected can be a shock, but it can also be a wonderful treat, if you allow yourself to indulge, that is.

Kay is bubbling with excitement. She’s booked a sailing holiday of a lifetime in Greece with a man she’s fallen for hook, line and sinker. They met on the Internet. She’s from Oxford, he’s from Washington State. She’s a business lecturer, he runs his own successful business.

They’re perfect for each other, and she can’t wait to meet him and spend time in and out of his bed, allowing him to seduce her for real and not just with softly spoken words over the telephone.

But when she arrives in the idyllic port of Fiscardo, she’s in for a shock. There’s a reason Sullivan’s photographs were grainy, and it’s not because he’s sporting a potbelly or balding as she’d suspected. It’s because he’s over a decade younger than her and could rival any Greek god in the looks department. What’s more, his sex appeal and lust for her is off the scale.

Should Kay take what she can with her ‘toy boy’ and have some fun in the sun or hop on the first plane back to England? It’s a tricky decision for a woman who believed she couldn’t be surprised by life anymore.

Buy from Totally Bound Amazon Amazon UK and all other good ebook retailers.

Excerpt

My dreams were filled with blue skies, turtles and fluffy, white clouds that cradled around me, rocking me, soothing me, tilting me this way and that in a constant languid motion.

I saw Greek gods, islands rising from an aqua sea, and heard the sound of waves slicing around dolphins as they rose and fell from the water as if flying.

The images and sounds of my dreams faded, and reality broke into my consciousness. For a moment, I wondered where I was, then my foot touched the cool surface of the cabin wall, and I remembered that I was on Dolly Bird and Sullivan was sleeping up on deck.

I turned to my back and looked up at the skylight. The stars had gone, and in their place was a clear sky fractured by a length of white mast holding a taut sail.

I’d have to get up and grab a taxi to the airport.

The thought made me sad all over again. It could have been so perfect.

My body tilted slightly to the right, then upward and back down. The water in the harbor hadn’t been this rough the night before, and judging by the cloudless sky, it certainly didn’t seem like a storm was over us.

I sat up and braced my hands behind myself, stared at my ruby-red painted toenails. Again I was jostled, not lots, but certainly more than I’d been the night before.

I swung my legs around, exited the cabin, then stood on the rocking floor of the small

seating area. I flicked open one of the drawn curtains. “What the…?”

All I could see was water. No land, no houses, and certainly no Fiscardo. Just an endless expanse of blue occasionally topped with a burst of white froth.

I spun around and looked out of the opposite window. It was the same.

Nothing but water.

I’m out at sea.

A wave butted the boat, and I lurched toward the galley and grabbed the counter for

support. What the hell was going on?

I was confused, not to mention dry from the wine the night before. I went into the

bathroom, brushed my teeth and splashed water on my face. After a quick gulp of bottled water, I headed up the small steps and pushed open the door to the outside world.

The glare of the sun hit me like a spotlight being turned onto my face, but I ignored it and climbed onto the windy deck.

“What on earth,” I said, holding on to the table and staring at the front of the boat, “is going on?”

Two white sails ballooned above me. Enormous and dramatic, they clung to the mast, ropes straining and groaning, reaching for the sky.

“Good morning.”

“What the hell do you think you’re doing?” I shouted, spinning and spotting Sullivan standing behind the large chrome wheel.

He wore nothing but his swim shorts and shades. The breeze had flattened his hair backward, and his shoulders and upper arms were tense as he held the wheel.

“Taking you for a spin,” he called over the breeze, grinning so wide his cheeks balled. “Like it?”

“No…no…and that is not what’s happening. Take me back to Fiscardo right now.” How dare he? Anger coiled in my stomach. It felt like my veins were suddenly too narrow for my blood.

“Can’t.” He shrugged.

“Of course you can. Turn around.” I put my hand up to shield my eyes and looked over his shoulder. In the far distance, I could make out land, rising giant-like from the sea. “Back there, take me back there.” I pointed, as a pounding beat set up in my temples.

“Can’t, the wind is blowing us this way.” He signaled to the sails. “We’re at the mercy of the gods.”

I held on to the rail that supported the Bimini and hoisted myself upward onto the main body of the boat for a better look at my location. The wind caught my hair and cooled my cheeks. I peered into the distance. “There must be a way, and I demand that you—”

He reached for my wrist, grabbed me, and pulled me down.

“Hey, watch it,” I said, gripping a metal railing that ran around the side of the boat. I was struggling to keep my footing and bumped against the table.

“No, you watch it.” He released me and gestured above me. “The boom nearly got you. Gotta keep an eye out for it. Wily sucker once the speed picks up.” He stepped away and grabbed the wheel again.

“Why did it do that? It nearly killed me.” I looked up at the scarily heavy bar that had ropes slipping upward. It had nearly chopped my head off. Damn thing.

“Probably won’t kill you,” Sullivan said, tightening something on his right. “But it will give you a thumper of a headache. Best you stay on this part of the deck for now.”

Huh, I had a headache already. Temper did that to me. “Not very health and safety conscious around here, is it?” I stepped behind him, as far away as possible from the lurching pole, and held on to the stern rail.

“Baby,” he said, still gripping the wheel but looking at me over his shoulder. “This is the big bad ocean. Danger lurks everywhere. Not even a guy with a hard hat and a clipboard can sort this out.”

I frowned at him. “Seriously, take me back. I don’t want to be out here.”

“I told you, I can’t. Besides, I want you to see some of the islands before you jump on a plane and leave me.”

“What?” I put one hand on my hip but kept hold of the rail with the other—the boat was skimming over the water, bouncing rhythmically. I couldn’t believe what he’d just said. He’d taken me against my will. He knew I’d wanted to get back to the airport today. Did he really want to see me lose it with him? “So you’ve just gone and bloody kidnapped me?”

He turned to me again and shoved his glasses to the top of his head in that cute way I’d noticed he did. He let his gaze settle on my face, then bit on his bottom lip, just a little—so I could see his top teeth—and let his attention slide over my body.

I glanced downward. Damn. I was standing in just my new, white underwear. It was pretty damn sexy with the lace detail and the balcony cups, because when I’d bought it, I’d wanted to look hot for him.

“Jesus, Kay. I’d say it was more like womannapped than kidnapped, wouldn’t you?”

First reviews

“Kick off your shoes, shed your clothes along with your inhibitions and indulge yourself in a sensual adventure.”

“Wow! What a story!”

“What can I say but off the charts HOT!”

“Another fantastic book by Lily Harlem, she does such a great job of describing the characters and the place I could smell the sea and felt like I was on an island in Greece.”

“A new romance book by Lily Harlem – no other words are needed, you just know it’s going to be fabulous.”

“Simply a beautiful, sexy, smile-inducing story that you will want to read over and over.”

“An absolutely perfect book to read whilst pool side or lounging on a sun deck.”

Oh the sun, the sea, the sex! Lily has a way of writing that puts you in the book. Her descriptions of Greek Islands had me day-dreaming I was on a boat, feel the wind and sun on my face, could smell the charcoal fires from the harbour side café’s and taste the olives and wine.

About Lily Harlem

Lily Harlem lives in the UK and is an award-winning, multi-published author of contemporary erotic romance. She writes for publishers on both sides of the Atlantic including HarperCollins, Totally Bound, Xcite, Ellora’s Cave and Sweetmeats Press. Her Hot Ice series regularly receives high praise and industry nominations.

Before turning her hand to writing Lily Harlem worked as a trauma nurse and her latest HarperCollins release, Confessions of a Naughty Night Nurse, draws on her many experiences while nursing in London. Lily also self-publishes and The Silk Tie, The Glass Knot, In Expert Hands and Scored have been blessed with many 5* reviews since their release.

Lily writes MF, MM and ménage a trois, her books regularly hit the #1 spot on Amazon Best Seller lists and Breathe You In was named a USA Today Reviewer’s Recommended Read of 2014. Her latest MM novel is Dark Warrior.

Lily also co-authors with Natalie Dae and publishes under the name Harlem Dae – check out the Sexy as Hell Box Set available exclusively on Amazon – The Novice, The Player and The Vixen – and That Filthy Book which has been hailed as a novel ‘every woman should read’.

One thing you can be sure of, whatever book you pick up by Ms Harlem, is it will be wildly romantic and down-and-dirty sexy. Enjoy!

Find Lily on the web.

Website http://www.lilyharlem.com/

Blog http://www.lilyharlem.blogspot.com/

Twitter https://twitter.com/lily_harlem

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/lily.harlem

Facebook author page https://www.facebook.com/LilyHarlemAuthor

Pinterest http://pinterest.com/lilyharlem/

Raw Talent http://rawtalentseries.co.uk

BritBabes http://thebritbabes.blogspot.co.uk

Hockey Romance http://www.hockeyromance.com

Newsletter Subscription http://www.lilyharlem.com/newsletter-subscription.html

Hot Ice https://www.facebook.com/hoticeseries

Google+ https://plus.google.com/u/0/106837751333678531161/posts

Harlem Dae http://www.harlemdae.com

Goodreads http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4070110.Lily_Harlem

My Review

Sun Filled Sensual Adventure FIVE STARS! *****

This is such a romantic and sensual read! Kick off your shoes, shed your clothes along with your inhibitions and indulge yourself in a sun filled sensual adventure. I must admit, the premise of Toy Boy got me all a quiver from the off, as Kay and Sullivan, who have been having an online relationship for over a year, meet for the first time in Greece. Imagine Kay’s shock and anger when she arrives and sees that the man she has given her heart to is 14 years her junior. What is a woman to do?

Although Sullivan is drop dead gorgeous and Kay wants to rip his clothes off, she views herself a far too old for him and intends to fly back home to the UK as soon as possible. However, Sullivan and the magic of the Greek islands have other ideas…. Indeed, there are a series of deliciously decadent scenes on board Sullivan’s yacht as it ploughs through the waters of the Ionian sea. Sexual tension and passion sizzle in the Greek sun as Kay and Sullivan explore both the beautiful landscape and examine their emotions. Will Kay succumb to the attraction she feels for Sullivan or will she just enjoy the holiday and return home, leaving her relationship with Sullivan in her past?

I loved the character of Sullivan. He was determined to convince Kay that their age difference was not an issue and that they are soul-mates. I was really rooting for Kay to find a HEA with Sullivan and I adored how he encourages her to let go of her inhibitions and her pre-conceptions. I enjoyed the agony and the ecstacy of their journey and what a beautiful backdrop to their story!

I recommend Toy Boy to readers of erotic romance who are looking for a truly romantic read.

Reviewed by Tina Williams

A copy of this book was given to me by the author for the purpose of a fair and honest review.

June 2, 2015 by Caroline Barker

RE-RELEASE DAY & Review The Medea Complex by Rachel Florence Roberts

Today we celebrate the re-release of Rachel Florence Roberts‘s dark psychological thriller, THE MEDEA COMPLEX. Now released by New American Library (Penguin) after it’s original success and high rated reviews, it has now been re-edited and reworked to an even higher standard. Already a 5* rating from us, we’re more than confident to say that this newer version will embrace the reader even moreso, if that is possible!

Author: Rachel Florence Roberts

Title: The Medea Complex

Genre: Historical psychological thriller

Date released: June 2nd, 2015

Released by: New American Library (Penguin)

Length: 368 pages (paperback)

Blurb: A deep and riveting psychological thriller inspired by true events of the Victorian era, The Medea Complex explores the nature of the human psyche: what possesses us, what drives us, and how love, passion, and hope for the future can drive us to insanity.

1885. Anne Stanbury wakes up in a strange bed, having been kidnapped from her home. As the panic settles in, she realizes she has been committed to a lunatic asylum, deemed insane and therefore unfit to stand trial for an unspeakable crime. But all is not as it seems….

Edgar Stanbury, her husband as well as a grieving father, is torn between helping his confined wife recover her sanity and seeking revenge for his ruined life. But Anne’s future rests wholly in the hands of Dr. George Savage, chief medical officer of Bethlem Royal Hospital.

The Medea Complex is the darkly compelling story of a lunatic, a lie, and a shocking revelation that elucidates the difference between madness and evil….

REVIEW 5*****

Set in the nineteenth century, based on a true story and real life characters of the time, The Medea Complex covers genres from an historical psychological thriller leading to an historical mystery thriller. The story holds a fascinating rawness and realistic storyline, following a new mother and her mental state since the birth of her child, how she reacts and copes to treatments and the people surrounding her and leaves the reader wondering if her husband remained in love with her or sought revenge for the situation she has left him in.

After killing her young infant son, Lady Anne Stanbury is committed to Bethlehem Hospital, deemed insane and therefore escapes the legal procedure of being sentenced (if found guilty). Anne is confused and believes she is being held for ransom by criminals as she cannot remember anything in regard to her husband and deceased child. And during this time the reader has an insight into how Anne is treated at the hospital by it’s members of staff.

The story opens up very dark, moody and a little depressing considering the main focus on a woman unable to cope with her young to the point she ends his life and ultimately is losing her mind. And yet, the author has made it so gripping and intense that it draws the reader in, making it such a pleasure to read. It is informative of the time, well-researched and yet written for a reader to follow the characters and storyline with ease, leaving a desire to read more.

Another area that intrigued me was the way in which the author tells the story from many perspectives; Lady Anne, Doctor George Savage, Edgar Stanbury (Anne’s husband), Lord Damsbridge (Anne’s father) and Beatrix Fortier (Anne’s maid and companion). This allows the reader to understand and perhaps empathise with the characters, their mindset and their actions.

Once the reader is aware of the situation that Lady Anne Stanbury is in the story goes on to focus on the many conflicts that all of the characters battle. Initially we are aware that Anne has conflicting memories and confusion of where she is, why she is there and what she remembers before entering the Bethlehem Hospital.

Doctor Savage is trying his best to carry out his work on the hope of curing Anne, whilst using the occasional method that Lord Damsbridge, Anne’s father, doesn’t approve of for his daughter. However, Lord Damsbridge funds the hospital thousands of pounds and wants his daughter treated in a specific manner. He can be a little threatening towards Doctor Savage, leaving the doctor the option to either follow or disobey his orders.

I love this maze of objectives and emotion that Rachel Florence Roberts has weaved into the story. It makes the story in many ways have more than one central character, bringing the reader close to all of them and trying to work out constantly what choices they will make and how they will execute their plans.

As the story unfolds past the first few chapters the reader begins to realise that Lady Anne’s husband, Edgar Stanbury was from a poor background. He has married into nobility and yet with no son and Anne in hospital he has no hold of Asquith Manor or the wealth that Lord Damsbridge could pass onto the male heir of Anne’s. To stay, Edgar needs Anne cured and another son to be born to claim the lifestyle for himself. Edgar also battles his confusion of whether he loves or hates his wife. Does he blame her tremendously for their sons death and long for revenge or does he love her and hopes for a better future with her?

Last but certainly not least is Beatrix who doesn’t take kindly to Edgar. The staff feel that he wants them fired and that his presence is purely for financial gain due to his background but as Asquith Manor is not his home yet she feels safe for now and uses her time to look out for Lady Anne.

In the latter half of the novel it becomes more an historical thriller/mystery, as opposed to psychological, with the reader constantly guessing what has taken place, who was involved, whether sanity had a role to play or not and there are many twists with nothing left unanswered at the end. I thoroughly enjoyed this read regardless of its dark subject matter. It certainly opens eyes to all standpoints involved. And I cannot emphasize enough just how well-researched, understood and written about this era is in this story. It is a real stand-out and will not leave your mind in a hurry.

A copy of the originally released ‘The Medea Complex’ was provided by the author in return for an honest and fair review.

The Medea Complex is available on Amazon UK and Amazon US.

Rachel Florence Roberts site (for more info on the book and the author)

Reviewed by Caroline Barker

June 1, 2015 by Tina Williams

ARC Review – Better when it Hurts (#2 in the Stripped series), by Skye Warren

Dark Erotic Romance

Adult/18+ Read

I loved Better when it Hurts, Skye Warren’s latest addition to the awesome Stripped series! It’s another deliciously dark and decadent romance about a woman who tries her utmost to hide her real self from the world, but who is about to become undone when a bad boy from her past comes looking for revenge. The novel is scheduled for release on June 4th, but I was lucky enough to be given an Advanced Reader Copy and you can read my review here. Tina ❤

Blurb

Five years ago we lived in the same house. He was the ultimate bad boy. And my foster brother.

Now he’s back. Tougher, harder, meaner. All of it aimed at me, because I was the one who sent him away. It’s payback time. He wants his pound of flesh, and I am helpless to say no.

My Review ~ FIVE Deliciously Dark Stars! *****

Dark, Dirty and Emotional!

Yet more awesomeness from Skye Warren! I was thrilled to be given an ARC to review Better When it Hurts, the second novel in the Stripped series. This is the story of Lola, one of the strippers at the Grand, and Blue, who provides security. It’s dark, dirty and emotional and once I started it there was no way I could put it down until I had finished it!

I LOVED the character of Blue: the angry and conflicted alpha, always there in the shadows, watching Lola and waiting…. The couple have one helluva history, which reveals itself as the tale unfolds. Lola knows that Blue has not forgiven her for her past actions. His presence unnerves her and she knows that it is only a matter of time before she will have to atone for what she has done and she knows that it’s going to hurt. They have a tragic and tangled past and they have much to work through if they are ever to find resolution.

Skye Warren does a superb job of creating the most intense scenes of sexual tension and like Lola I was on tenterhooks waiting for this powerful alpha to make his move and demand payback! When he did I was absolutely gobsmacked by what transpired: the scenes between them sizzle with a bruising combination of raw emotion and passion. They are dark, dirty and primal and I loved them! Blue is able to strip away Lola’s confident demeanour, revealing the fragile woman underneath.

I was in no doubt that this couple had deep seated feelings for each other from their every word or action. I particularly liked how Blue is committed to preventing Lola being harmed by the Grand’s customers if they step over the line, wanting her for himself. The question is will Lola survive with her emotions intact and will Blue forgive her once he has meted out his revenge?

The author sets the scene perfectly with her descriptions of the Grand where Lola and the other girls strip. The faded grandeur of the once luxury hotel provides the perfect backdrop for the heart-rending life led by those who work there night after night. Lola and Blue’s story is a fabulous addition to the series and I am so looking forward to finding out about what is going n between the club’s owner Ivan and Candy, one of the other strippers.

If you are a reader of dark romance you will definitely want to put this on your reading list! .

Reviewed by Tina Williams

An ARC of this book was given to me by the author for a fair and honest review.

For the link to my review of Love the Way You Lie, book 1 in the series, click on the book title.

Purchase Links

Amazon UK Amazon US

Connect with the Author

Website: http://skyewarren.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/skyewarren

Newsletter: http://www.skyewarren.com/newsletter

May 31, 2015 by Tina Williams

RELEASE BLITZ and REVIEW ~ Mist Revealed (Elemental Desire, book 1), by Nancy Corrigan (includes excerpt)

Erotic Paranormal Romance

Adult/18+ Read

A woman seeking answers…

Cat, a renowned scientist, embarks on a quest to uncover the source of the unknown deadly virus that claimed her sister’s life. What she finds is a man shrouded in mystery who manages the impossible—swaying her devotion from logic to passion. But Rune isn’t simply a lover. He’s a weapon, one that has the potential to save her or destroy her.

A man searching for treasure…

Rune, a child of the mist, awakens into a world hovering on the verge of destruction. Ragnarok is coming. His enemies have been released from their prison. And he’s discovered the one woman who can thaw his frozen heart. But the race to stop the final battle isn’t the time to fall in love. Or is it?

A discovery that will change everything…

Life evolves, and what was lost can be recovered. But the truth revealed isn’t the one Cat or Rune expects. The impossible has become reality. And two lovers must make a choice—adapt or die.

Author’s note: Mist Revealed was previously released as Mist Unveiled and has been reedited.

Excerpt (Adult/18+)

A cold gust of wind swept into the room. She glanced over her shoulder. The sight that met her stopped her heart. Rune stood just inside the doorway, mist swirling around his feet. She looked from the odd fog to his face. The light from the nearby lamp left half of it in shadows. It didn’t dim his expression, however.

Hungry. Intense. Primal.

He focused his blue-gray eyes on her. She couldn’t have looked away if she wanted to.

“Catherine? You there? Your image cut out. All I hear is wind wailing.”

Wind? What wind?

Rune glanced from her to the computer. The lights flickered. A pop sounded. She gasped and swung her head to peer at her computer. Only a black screen showed. The lights wavered again, then went out.

The sound of a door slamming tore a squeak from her throat. Her heart raced. She hated the dark.

“Rune?”

No answer.

The window cast a small sliver of light across the room, not enough to see much but it calmed her frantic pulse.

“The power went out.” She stated the obvious, but she had to say something. The silence threatened to stir her anxiety.

He didn’t respond.

A shiver raced down her spine. The cold air Rune had let in chilled her. She rubbed at her arms to warm them. It didn’t help. Her teeth chattered. “Do you have a generator? It’s going to get pretty uncomfortable in here soon.”

Hands caught her hips from behind. A hard body pressed along her back. And the scent of a crisp autumn day filled her lungs. She relaxed into him. Rune hooked his arms around her waist. She tugged them tighter. The warmth he gave off felt heavenly compared to the icy air fogging her breath.

“Who was the male you were talking to?”

“Sam. He’s—”

“Is he your lover?”

Not seeing any reason to lie, she answered. “Sometimes. We’re not serious.”

He buried his face in the crook of her neck. For a long moment, he only breathed slowly. Each exhale heated her body.

“You won’t touch him again.” He pressed his lips to her ear. “I won’t share you.”

The stark possessiveness in his voice and words should’ve made her see red. It didn’t. Confusion over why he’d care surfaced instead.

“Share me? What are you talking about?”

“Your body, Cat.” He kissed her, right below her ear. Another shiver raced down her spine. Desire fueled it. She was no longer cold. “And your heart, your life, your future. They’re mine.”

Oh. Dear. God.

Arousal flowed with his low gravely declaration. Every inch of her body tingled, eager for his touch.

Hello? Modern woman here. The alpha male attitude should not push me into a state of instant desire. It did, though. She didn’t want to consider what that said about her.

“Don’t I get a say in this?”

He clamped his mouth over her neck and nibbled. His teeth scraped her, and a groaned sigh escaped him. He eased back so only his lips brushed her skin.

“Oh yes. You get the final say. I will never take anything from you that you don’t willingly give.” He covered her lower belly with his spread fingers, then inched them higher. At her waistband, he popped the button, tugged the zipper and shoved her jeans down. “And you offered to feed me.”

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A little about Nancy…

A true romantic at heart, Nancy Corrigan is convinced there’s a knight in shining armor for every woman (or man), but you won’t find damsels in distress in her stories. She adores pairing alpha heroes with women strong enough to match them and bring them to their knees. She also enjoys flipping the traditional roles in romances because her motto is—love and people should never be forced to conform to anyone’s norm.

She holds a degree in chemistry and has worked in research but now focuses on ensuring quality. She considers it the perfect outlet for her as she’s the first to admit she has some OCD tendencies. It carries over into her writing life too. While engrossed in a novel, she has a habit of forgetting to eat and sleep. Fortunately, she’s married to her own knight in shining armor who understands her oddities and loves her anyway. They reside in Pennsylvania with their three children, dog, snake and guinea pigs. Her other interests include tattoos, animals, classic cars and all things spooky and sexy.

My Review FIVE STARS! *****

Sizzling and Emotional!

Erotic Paranormal Romance (18+/Adult Read)

I never knew that the end of the world could be so, well, damned sexy! Author Nancy Corrigan has not only done her homework on Ragnarok, but given it a fresh twist in her release of Mist Revealed, book 1 in her series, Elemental Desire. This novel just sizzles and could well ignite your reading device as well as your panties!

Awakened from their long slumber, Wardens and children of the mist, brothers Rune and Jaron, face an unfamiliar modern world. The evil eldjotnar, the fire demons, have escaped their icy prison, due to global warming and are busy wreaking havoc and destruction on the human population.

Scientist Cat travels to Greenland in an attempt to locate the source of a new and potentially terrifying virus which killed her sister. It is there that she literally collides with Rune, unleashing an immediate and unexpected passion (cue many, many scrumptious and smexy scenes)! However, danger threatens. As Rune strives to protect this woman who he desires like no other, Cat struggles to accept Rune for what he is, an immortal creature who requires blood to survive. Her rational and scientific mind also prompts her to try to find out more about the virus and her sister’s death and in doing so she unearths a number of secrets that appear to be coming more and more personal…

I just ADORE reads where the hero and heroine are unexpectedly brought together by blinding passion and then have to face their fears and work through their differences – and the differences between Cat and Rune are a source of conflict throughout. Rune is an alpha male through and through and, as a creature of the mist, he has many magical and mystical qualities. He has the reputation amongst his peers for being emotionally cold towards women, until he meets Cat that is, who excites him and ignites his passion like no other. Cat is a woman who has embraced the logic of modern science over the belief in myth and legends, and has no time for love. The scenes between them are downright hot and sublimely erotic and I enjoyed immersing myself in their physical and emotional journey as they grappled with discovering and accepting each other, as well as combatting the increasing danger that Cat in particular finds herself in.

Although the main focus of the read is on the main couple, Cat and Rune, a number of other key characters are introduced, all with intriguing personalities, who could feature in future books in the series. The plot is fast paced and the scenes describing the power and magical abilities that the characters wield in the book are extremely well done and I really enjoyed the pictures that the words painted in my head.

Nancy Corrigan writes smexy and imaginative lovemaking scenes, laced with passion and emotion. If you are looking for a new erotic paranormal romance fix, you will love Mist Revealed.

A copy of this book was given to me by the author for the purpose of a fair and honest review.

Please note, this book was previously entitled Mist Unveiled (reviewed on our blog last autumn). It has now been re-launched with a spanking new cover and is currently available for 99c.

May 27, 2015 by Caroline Barker

REVIEW SOUL REDEMPTION (Rebel Riders #2) by C.J. Pinard

We welcome the second instalment of the paranormal fantasy/romance series, Rebel Riders, by C.J. Pinard, in SOUL REDEMPTION. Readers will love the dark atmosphere of this series, with some very flawed but fantastic characters, plenty of mystery, and a great deal going on. There are elements of the novel that reminded me of a cross between The X-Files, Sons of Anarchy and True Blood! Follow the adventure of Nolan Bishop as he tries to find answers on symptoms of him being turned, and yet not full vamp or without a soul. Will he turn? Will he eventually lose his soul?

Title: Soul Redemption (Rebel Riders #2)

Author: C.J. Pinard

Genre: Paranormal, urban fantasy

Release date: May 15th, 2015

Length: 143 pages

Blurb: Faced with unthinkable changes, Nolan Bishop seeks to come to grips with his new version of mortality. While his relationship with Charity Sheridan was already rocky, he’s now facing a whole new set of challenges as they continue to try to find a balance to the love that has just begun to blossom between them. Meanwhile, her twin Eva has violent vengeance on the mind, and the succubus won’t settle for anything less than Nolan’s ultimate demise. Heading back to New Orleans at the request of the BSI, Nolan will have to face Joel Reichert, the old vampire whose oldest friend is now dead because of him. But is Joel really an enemy?

A new, young friend in the Rebel Riders group gives Nolan a much needed reprieve from the stress of his new way of life. While Archie and the Riders don’t really know the full extent of Nolan’s new problems, he continues to hide the horrific things he has to do in order to stay alive. Will Nolan come out better than he was before Eva tried to take his soul, or will he crack and break under the pressure once he realizes what the succubus has really done to him?

REVIEW

After having his soul taken by the beautiful-but-evil succubus, Eva, Nolan Bishop is left in a strange state. It appears that the blood from his new love Charity, Eva’s human twin sister, has prevented his soul to be taken for good. However, he still has some symptoms of being a possible vampire, i.e. sharper senses, discomfort in the sun, back pain from a previous accident has subsided, he is pale, and he has a curiosity about blood!

Soul Redemption carries on from Soul Rebel (book 1) nicely by moving on with the story at the same time as recapping readers in the early chapters. With Nolan working at Archie’s Garage, restoring motorcycles, we are reminded of Archie and his motorcycle club, the Rebel Riders, who hunt down vamps at night and kill the ones who kill and feed off humans. Now Archie is hoping for Nolan to join them. Little does he know of Nolan’s possibility of being a vampire himself!

One member of the Rebel Riders who becomes acquainted with Nolan is Kovah. Kovah is completely against all vampires killing and feeding from humans. He believes that they should all be killed. He comes across to the reader as quite extreme with his viewpoint, and makes the reader question if he will attempt to kill Nolan when he sees the blood hunger in Nolan’s eyes. Then again, Nolan discovers that he has more in common with Kovah than he initially thought. Will there be conflict between them, or will they become great friends? Either way, Kovah is a brilliant character to add to the many others of this series – with some hanging in the balance of good and bad!

“… Do you feel like she still has your soul?”

“… No. I knew the moment she took it, and I knew the moment I got it back… Do you think I should still kill her?”

“… Absolutely. And I want to watch. Crazy b**** needs to be put down. She’s dangerous.”

Nolan wants answers as to exactly who or what he is. Prepared to help the BSI (Bureau of Supernatural Investigation – also a part of C.J. Pinard’s ‘Enchanted Immortals’ series) with their knowledge of the paranormal, and wanting the answers for himself, Nolan agrees to go to New Orleans with Agent Nelson and subjects himself to blood tests, scans and many questions.

While in New Orleans he decides to face old vampire, Joel Reichert. Nolan knows that he will also have answers, but he also knows that there is a great chance that he will want revenge for Nolan killing his oldest vampire friend, Ansel. This could be a very brave or a very stupid move for Nolan. But something he feels he has to do.

“… He was an old vampire who deserved strength and respect. A man who Nolan needed to make an ally of, not an enemy.”

Meanwhile, Charity is not impressed. Although she is aware of what he has been through, she doesn’t fully know of his symptoms and curiosity. Throughout the novel there are times of Nolan keeping busy, whether it be to go to New Orleans or ride around with the Rebel Riders to hunt vampires. With Charity being stood up by him she begins to get annoyed with him. What she doesn’t realise is that he has started to love her but wants to protect her from the supernatural and the changes that he is facing.

Charity’s situation is left increasingly more complex when her twin sister, Eva, and her vampire friend, Brad, pay her a visit. Eva is aware that Nolan is different and that his soul is not hers. This is frustrating for her and so she seeks revenge and wants to get her hands on Nolan. She’d figured that the best way to find him would be through her sister. Eva becomes increasingly impatient and trickery is just one side of her evil that she can use to get her sister’s, and ultimately Nolan’s, attention!

The plotline and characters of the Rebel Riders series are excellent. The reads are thrilling and gripping, making for a fast read due to the action and excitement. Not only this, but the author also draws the reader in by creating a brilliant, dark atmosphere. This, mixed with Nolan’s curiosity, brings plenty of mystery to the fore and the reader just knows that there is a great deal more to be revealed.

Soul Redemption is a mesmerising read of the paranormal and romance that you won’t want to leave! Be warned: there is a brilliant cliff hanger at the end where Eva’s evil trickery does not disappoint!

An Advanced Reader’s Copy was provided by the author in return for a fair and honest review.

Soul Redemption (Rebel Riders #2) by C.J. Pinard is available at Amazon US and Amazon UK.

You can also find my review of C.J. Pinard’s Soul Rebel (Rebel Riders #1) here.

Reviewed by Caroline Barker

Other reviews for C.J. Pinard:-

Enchanted Immortals (Enchanted Immortals Book 1)

Enchanted Immortals: The Vortex (Enchanted Immortals Book 2)

Enchanted Immortals: The Vampyre (Enchanted Immortals Book 3)

Enchanted Immortals: The Vixen (Enchanted Immortals Book 4)

BSI: Bureau of Supernatural Investigation (an Enchanted Immortals novella)

Patriotic Duty (Duty & Desire, Book 1)

Tour of Duty (Duty & Desire, Book 2)

Boots Beneath My Bed (Miranda’s Story) (Duty & Desire #3)

Playing the Field (Duty & Desire #4)

Unscathed (written with Tim O’Rourke)

May 26, 2015 by Tina Williams

REVIEW ~ Interviewing Wade (Executive Decisions #4), by Grace Marshall

Contemporary Romance

Sexy and Compelling!

Book Blurb

The Executive Decision Trilogy may be over, but the story continues in this addictively sexy fourth instalment by the best-selling Grace Marshall. Ambitious reporter Carla Flannery has been waiting to make her name – and when she gets the chance to interview Wade Crittenden, the mysterious genius behind Pneuma, Inc, she can’t believe her luck. However, Carla has made a lot of enemies in her work, and when Wade discovers she’s being stalked, he is determined to keep her safe, spurred on by his confusing feelings towards her. As situations turn deadly and dark secrets threaten to reveal themselves, lives and hearts are on the line as the interview starts to reveal far more about them than either ever expected …

Intense, Passionate and Suspenseful *****

Just wow! This is the first book that I have read by Grace Marshall and it is a downright sexy and compelling read, with an unlikely hero and a feisty heroine and plenty of suspense, which kept me on the edge of my seat.

The book, which can be read as a stand-alone, is the fourth instalment of the Executive Decisions Trilogy. I have not read the trilogy, but after reading this I am planning on rectifying this oversight very shortly!

There are just so many words to describe this read: fast-paced; intense; humorous; psychological; dark and sexy, to name just a few! I loved the characters of Wade and Carla and their journey as they open up to each other and work to avert the danger that Carla is in from her stalker.

Wade is at first glance one of the most unlikely heroes ever – the geek genius and recluse behind the success of the high tech security firm he works for – but hell, he is damn sexy! The heroine, Carla, a journalist, is determined to interview him, to reveal the man behind the mask and I really enjoyed how she gets right under his skin to secure her goal. The couple rub each other up the wrong way but the sexual tension and the chemistry between them is electrifying and there are plenty of hot scenes, some of which have some dark elements. I was enthralled throughout and eager to find out if Wade would open his heart and reveal his true self to Carla. The war he wages with himself: his desire to avoid close companionship versus the growing attraction between him and Carla, as he seeks to protect her from her stalker, is at the core of the novel.

Carla is a super heroine. She is brave and feisty and although she knows exactly what buttons to press to get Wade riled she also knows when to give him his space. Yet how can she cope with his mercurial behaviour, which sees him pull her towards him only to then reject her? Is he the right man for her? There is much to sort out in their relationship that is if Carla survives her stalker…. I was biting my nails at the end with fear and apprehension as the plot unfolded towards its gripping finale.

A must read for fans of romance and romantic suspense. I loved it!

Reviewed by Tina Williams

Please note a copy of this novel was given to me by the author for the purpose of a fair and honest review.

May 22, 2015 by Tina Williams

ARC REVIEW ~ Hold Me Until Midnight (Grayson Brothers, book 1), by Christina Phillips

Erotic Contemporary Romance – Coming 9th June!

18+/Adult Read

I was delighted to receive an ARC from the publishers and took great pleasure in reviewing Hold Me Until Midnight, the first book in Christina Phillips’ Grayson Brothers series. I just loved the chemistry between Jackson and Scarlett, the hero and heroine, and the book is a scorching and smexy start to the series! I’m so looking forward to reading about the other Grayson brothers and what is in store for them! Scroll down to read the blurb and review and connect with Christina. Tina ❤

Book Blurb

Besides, one hot and incredibly intense night between a bad boy and a pampered princess could never turn into something real…could it?

My Review *****

Another scorching erotic contemporary romance from Christina Phillips! I just loved reading about what happened when ‘bad boy’ Jackson and socialite Scarlett fall hard for each other.

Reviewed by Tina Williams

A copy of this book was given to me by the publishers via NetGalley for the purpose of a fair and honest review.

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May 20, 2015 by Caroline Barker

Release-day Review Winging It (short story) by Christine S. Feldman

Released today is a fantastic, short read by Christine S. Feldman (Heavenly Bites novellas)! If you’re looking for a quirky, fun read to put a smile on your face and make you laugh out loud, then you’ll love Winging It. It is certainly a memorable read!

Title: Winging It

Author: Christine S. Feldman

Genre: Comedy/humour, contemporary romance

Date released: May 20th, 2015

Length: 63 pages

Blurb: Up until now, straitlaced Simon Kirkendale has done an admirable job of keeping his high society mother’s demands for grandbabies at bay, but lately she’s kicked things into high gear. So he isn’t too disappointed to delay her latest matchmaking attempt when a pretty stranger hops into the backseat of his car en route to one of his mother’s dinner parties and tells him to drive. A car-jacking? Nope. More like a bird on the run, but this particular bird happens to be a parrot who has slipped its cage, and Simon’s new acquaintance desperately needs to get it back before she loses sight of it altogether.

Ever the nice guy—and okay, maybe also a little intrigued by the colorful Miss Juleen Pruitt’s sudden appearance in his car—Simon hits the gas pedal and obliges only to find himself unwittingly dragged into a wild goose chase around town for a bird who seems to be determined to either get itself killed or the two people trying to catch it. Simon’s money is on the latter.

But it turns out that a little disruption and chaos in his life might just be what Simon needs most—especially if it comes in the form of Juleen.

If he can just manage to survive meeting her…

REVIEW

Christine S. Feldman’s ‘Winging It’ is everything it is cracked up to be. A short contemporary that leaves the reader smiling after providing fun, quirkiness, and excitement, not to mention the romance! I found myself laughing at certain scenes between the main characters, Simon and Juleen, as the author tells of their escapades in trying to capture Juleen’s grandfather’s parrot, Frankie!

This fast-paced, light-hearted story is extremely refreshing and original. The reader will love the unpredictable run of events as Simon and Juleen try to chase down Frankie in Simon’s car after Juleen jumps in and asks unknown Simon to put his foot down, and then later on foot as they race through a park after a bird in flight.

It is due to Simon’s chivalry and good-mannered upbringing that he goes along with Juleen and tries to help once he finds out the exact true nature of her ‘carjacking’. Only, after being bored with his mother’s vision of what his future bride should be like, he becomes fascinated with Juleen, and her quirkiness. After all, she is interesting and has some energy about her that is different.

Juleen is the chaos in the ever-so-organised life of Simon. His routine leans on the tedious side of the fence, whilst Juleen appears wild and free spirited. Opposites attract in this exciting, little read. And Simon can’t help but be drawn to her.

However, in the back of his mind he knows that his mother is expecting him to turn up for dinner and hoping to entertain a blind date with a woman of her choosing. His good manners and courtesy, not to mention the guilt trip his mother plays on him, all add up and make him feel obliged to meet this latest blind date. Will he be amazed and fall for his date, or is Juleen still playing on his mind?

If you’re looking for an uplifting, laugh-out-loud fast read Winging It is definitely for you! It really stands out from many other rom-com reads in a very punchy and vibrant way. And, it will leave you wanting more!

An ARC copy was provided by the author for the purpose of a fair and honest review.

Winging It by Christine S. Feldman is available at Amazon UK and Amazon US.

You can find our review of Christine S. Feldman’s festive novella Pastels & Jingle Bells (a Heavenly Bites novella #1) on our blog by clicking on the title. We will also be reviewing the author’s All’s Fair in Love and Weddings very soon too!

Reviewed by Caroline Barker