March 7, 2014 by Caroline Barker

Review Round Up

Hi readers, Spring is certainly in the air here in the UK, as the weather is gradually becoming warmer and the days are so much lighter. The air feels so much fresher – time to go for more walks and maybe think about having a read in the garden! I can’t believe it’s been over a month since our last review round-up and this time we have thirteen fantastic books to remind you about, covering a whole range of genres: romantic suspense, erotic romance, comedy, chick-lit, psychological drama and contemporary! (Please click on titles below for our review.)

We hope that you enjoy our site and our reviews. Please remember we are also on Facebook (where we’re almost at 500 ‘Likes’!) and on Twitter if you’d like to share some love!

Thanks guys, and happy reading 🙂

Caroline and Tina xx

The Lakeside Legacy (A South Carolina Romantic Suspense #1) by Jean Jennett (reviewed by Caroline)

What Krista Lucas finds when she arrives in picturesque Camden, South Carolina, is beyond all expectations. Her biological father, a man she never knew, has left her a large house in town and beautiful lakeside wooded acreage. How he came to own the property is a mystery Krista needs to solve for her own peace of mind.

Jake Thornton maintains that his family owns the house and land, and he can prove it with a document his own father left.

… Or can he?

Jake isn’t the only one with an interest in the property. His three brothers are ready and eager to develop the land, and nothing is going to stop them.

Including Krista Lucas.

With Krista’s life in danger, whose side will Jake take? His family … or Krista? Will the truth be discovered in time?

Early readers have said that The Lakeside Legacy has it all: suspense, danger, mystery, romance … and love.

The Lakeside Legacy is the first book in the South Carolina Romantic Suspense series.

WARNING: This book contains graphic sexual descriptions.

Sins of the Reaper (WesternWind Series #10) by Charlotte Boyett-Compo, Dark Erotic Fantasy (reviewed by Tina)

Brothers reunited. Lovers claimed. Warriors from all over the mega-verse coming together to combat an evil that would enslave and destroy them all. Amazeen warrioress Penthe will allow no man to best her. She slakes her lust with a succession of lovers, vowing she will never mate. Yet when she meets the Panthera cat shifter Bane, she may have met her match. Bane is riddled with scars, of the body and the soul, but Penthe vows that her warrior spirit and womanly body will help to make him whole again. Inside Scoop: This book contains graphic scenes of sexual torture, references to child abuse and the extensive violence that is part and parcel of the Reapers’ harsh world, as well as erotic male/male flirtation.

Baby, You’re as Sweet as 3.14159265 (101 Funny Love Advice Answers, 20 Sexy Stories, & Lots of Jokes) by HogWild, adult comedy (reviewed by Caroline)

WARNING: Content may not be suitable for people offended by naughty words, honest thoughts about love, and sexual thoughts of sextastic sex with sexy people.

(Edited synopsis due to rude words that may not be suitable for all) From the book…

A lot of girls like a guy who is a bad-ass. That’s why my conversations with women go like this:

GIRL: I like a man of danger.

ME: Come back to my place and we’ll open the .exe attachments in my email!

—

Dear Shirtless Guy in his Profile Picture, you REALLY want to impress girls? Get a job and pose in front of your cubicle.

—

They say you can get a girl to like you, if you can make her jealous. So I make sure the girl sees me with a pretty expensive handbag!

—

Girls like when you tell them about the adorable things that children do. For instance, like when my little nephew asked me, “When babies are in the tummy do they use mommy’s belly button as a window?”

Cute!

Thank God he didn’t ask what they use as a door

The Silk Romance by Helena Fairfax, romantic suspense (reviewed by Caroline, plus links to Tina’s review)

Sophie Challoner is sensible and hard-working, and a devoted carer of her father. One night her grandmother throws a ball for her in Paris…and Sophie does something reckless that she can never forget.
Jean-Luc Olivier is not a man to treat lightly. And so when fate takes a hand years after the ball, and reunites him with Sophie in Lyon, he is determined not to let her go a second time.
But it seems the fates are conspiring against their happiness. Jean-Luc has secrets of his own. And when disaster strikes at home in London, Sophie is faced with a choice—stay in this glamorous world with the man she loves, or return to her family to keep a sacred promise she made her mother.

The Harlot (Taskill Witches #1) by Saskia Walker, erotic historical romance (reviewed by Tina)

It is a dark era, and a lusty lass will do what she must to survive. Even if it means bartering flesh for a palmful of coins.

Forced to watch her mother burn at the stake as a witch, Jessie Taskill was separated from her siblings in the aftermath. Jessie is similarly gifted, ripe with a powerful magic that must stay hidden. When she’s accused by a rival of witchcraft, Jessie finds herself behind prison walls, awaiting certain death with a roguish priest unlike any man of the cloth she has known.

In reality, Gregor Ramsay is as far from holy as the devil himself, but his promise of freedom in return for her services may be her salvation. Locked into a dubious agreement, Jessie resents his plan to have her seduce and ruin his lifelong enemy. Especially when Gregor’s lust for her is so compelling. She may agree to be his pawn, even as she plots to use him just as he is using her.

The Father (Joshua’s Tree Trilogy, Book II) by N. W. Harris, Sci-Fi/ Fantasy/Futuristic (reviewed by Tina)

After discovering he’s destined to annihilate nearly all life, Joshua must take charge of a cannibalistic army of mutants with hopes of starting a civil war that will end the reign of evil—or bear the responsibility for destroying the few good people who remain on the planet. Captured by the leader of the sweepers, Josh learns he will grow up to be a genetic engineer responsible for creating the monsters. The Father recruits him to lead an army of sweepers against the evil generals who resist the termination of the sweeper experiment originally designed to bring an end to a global war that threatened to render the planet uninhabitable. At first repulsed by his telepathic ability to control the sweepers, Josh becomes addicted to the power to control thousands of the creatures at once. Believing him dead, Nadia rejoins her people, where she struggles to gain respect while leading them to safety. Inadvertently pursuing her across the land, Josh may not be able to stop his sweepers from destroying Nadia and her dwindling tribe when they collide in battle.

Stray by Mark Matthews, psychological drama (reviewed by Caroline)

Therapist Tomas Cleaves is many years sober from his addiction but is now losing his mind. There are voices in his head and the occasional seizure, and then his wife has a miscarriage on the same day his client dies of a heroin overdose. Tom becomes certain that the addicts he treats must have infected the womb of his wife. Lost and bitter after the miscarriage, Tom is in desperate need of a client who can give him some hope. James White is one such client — a newly orphaned alcoholic dead bent on drinking again until he gets discharged and finds himself rescuing lost strays at the next door animal shelter. Can James find a reason to live by rescuing the throw-away pets of the city? A gritty novel with an edge yet surprisingly gentle and sweet, Stray will take you through the dog fighting dens and crack houses of Detroit where Stray souls can find connections in the most unusual of places.

Blood Mate by Kitty Thomas, erotic (reviewed by Tina)

Blood Mate, a dark fairy tale…

Nicole has been happily married to big shot attorney, Dominic Rose for ten years, but soon after their anniversary he grows cold—as if she doesn’t exist. Meanwhile, another man has been pursuing her far too intently for comfort.

August Corinth is a six-hundred-year-old vampire, cursed to kill and suffer the pain of his victims each night until he can find the one woman who can resist his thrall, his blood mate. Once he’s found her, there are no lines he won’t cross to claim the promised salvation even if it means taking away everything and everyone she loves.

You Might Just Get It (short story) by Julia Barrett, erotic romance (reviewed by Caroline)

Kate has locked herself out of her new apartment building for the third time in a week. She’s on the stoop in the rain, barefoot, shivering and soaked to the skin. Her neighbour, Eric, arrives home in the nick of time and lets her in. That’s twice now he’s saved the day. When he invites her for a quick supper, how can she say no?
Eric has been waiting for an opportunity to get to know Kate. His kitchen window faces hers across the courtyard and he noticed her right away. How could he not, with her lovely halo of short curls and her beautiful smile? When he finds her stranded on the stoop, he gets to play the hero. When she agrees to his dinner invitation, he hopes he’ll get to play a lot more than that.

A Saint’s Salvation by Beverly Ovalle, contemporary, military romance (reviewed by Tina)

Corporal Nicholas ‘Saint’ Santiago need to go home to reclaim the man he used to be. To be the man he was before Operation Enduring Freedom slowly hardened his heart. He needs to reconnect to the values and the reasons he is doing what he does. Saint also needs to try to forget the courageous woman he knows was meant to be his.

Petty Officer Angelina Jones’ life changed the moment Saint saved her life. She survived the blast but now has to deal with the fact that she will never be whole. Knowing Saint received a ‘Dear John’ letter, Angelina has no intention of being his rebound romance. She needs to be loved for herself. She needs to forget about the one man she knows was meant to be hers.

They each try to find someone to help them forget.

However, fate has plans for the two of them.

Connected by the Sea/Break Through the Waves (Books 1 & 2) by E.L. Todd, New Adult Contemporary Romance (reviewed by Tina)

Sydney is attending University of Hawaii on Oahu where she’s majoring in Marine Biology. She loves her friends, her job, and her school. Since her ex-boyfriend cheated on her six months ago, she hasn’t moved on to anybody new yet. When Coen catches her eye, she’s immediately attracted to him in a very carnal way. She refuses to let herself feel that way because he’s a heartbreaker just like her ex was. But when she’s called to her professor’s office because she’s asked to tutor someone, she doesn’t realize it’s Coen. Will he convince her that he really is boyfriend material or will he turn out just as she suspects?

The Baby & the Bride (The Debt & the Doormat #2) by Laura Barnard, chick-lit, comedy, rom-com, contemporary romance (reviewed by Caroline)

Poppy and Jazz’s lives sound perfect on paper. Jazz has a new baby and Poppy’s getting married. But their realities are very different.

Poppy must strive to keep her cool new job with crazy hours, while trying to keep Ryan happy. Before she knows it her wedding has got out of control, thanks to her mother, the runners at work are bullying her, her parents are in financial difficulty and she’s doubting everything and everyone she ever knew.

Meanwhile Jazz is struggling with motherhood, something a credit card won’t fix. Why won’t this baby give her a break? Will Jazz be able to cope before she loses it?

And will Poppy make it down the aisle? Will Ryan even be waiting?

Portrait of Woman in Ink: A Tattoo Storybook by Kelly I. Hitchcock, contemporary short stories (reviewed by Caroline)

Twelve women, twelve tattoos, and a narrative thread that weaves them all together, Portrait of Woman in Ink: A Tattoo Storybook is a collection of stories that answers that lingering question in the back of your mind when you see an inked woman: what does your tattoo mean (or perhaps – what were you thinking)? From a parent’s suicide to the birth of an unlikely child, the stories behind why women tattoo themselves are literally worn on (and sometimes under) their sleeves, and retold on these pages.

Complete with artwork from the original tattoo artists and a foreword by Dr. Marta Vicente, one of academia’s foremost voices in Women’s Studies, this series of literary vignettes celebrates real, everyday women and their tattoos that, while they may seem insignificant at the time, are a symbol of the larger struggles and triumphs that make them who they are. These stories explore the idea of tattoos bringing together women from different worlds, and teaching them how these worlds might not be as far apart as they think.

March 5, 2014 by Caroline Barker

Portrait of Woman in Ink: A Tattoo Storybook by Kelly I. Hitchcock (blurb and review)

Book blurb: Twelve women, twelve tattoos, and a narrative thread that weaves them all together, Portrait of Woman in Ink: A Tattoo Storybook is a collection of stories that answers that lingering question in the back of your mind when you see an inked woman: what does your tattoo mean (or perhaps – what were you thinking)? From a parent’s suicide to the birth of an unlikely child, the stories behind why women tattoo themselves are literally worn on (and sometimes under) their sleeves, and retold on these pages.

REVIEW:

Portrait of Woman: A Tattoo Storybook appealed to me as it was like no book I had read before. There is a chain of twelve fictional short stories, each one focusing on a separate main female character who subsequently decides to have a tattoo based on life events at the time. It is a group of interlinking stories behind each character and each tattoo. And the links between the stories are excellent as they are characters from previous stories.

After reading the first story and beginning the second I could really enjoy how the main character of the second story followed on from story 1, rather than have completely fresh characters. Each woman has been (or is going through) their own life changing moments and, although fictional, Kelly I. Hitchcock has written very real characters and stories.

Having tattoo’s myself I appreciate how there is a story behind each one, a great deal of influence and thought goes into having them, not forgetting the experience itself. Therefore, I found it easy to relate to Portrait of Woman. A single tattoo can tell a story of one event/stage in a person’s life that leaves an imprint not only on the body but on the mind too! It is a reminder, a feeling that no one else completely understands but you. This book takes you to those places, those events in these women’s lives.

I cannot carry on without mentioning the beautiful illustrations at the beginning of each short story of the tattoo that the particular story is regarding. This provides the reader with a visual, an idea of the kind of tattoo the characters wants/has, and in many cases as idea of the story/meaning. It is obvious that the author has planned each story, each tattoo, each character and each link very well. This enables each story to flow into the next with ease.

Portrait of Woman in Ink is written well with easy to follow short stories. The short story factor makes it easier for the reader to read in instalments if you haven’t the chance to read for lengthy periods. Each story provides enough details about the main characters’ life for the reader to have an understanding and hopefully relate to the character. However, I did find myself wanting a little more in some instances where I thought the author could have elaborated on the experience of having the tattoo done and maybe gone into detail about what family and friends thoughts were on the tattoo’s.

Kelly I. Hitchcock will really open your mind about tattoo’s and those that have them. This book surely made me think about each of mine! Whether it be to educate, help relate to or indeed influence a decision you will be left thinking about the various styles and meanings of tattoos. And if you enjoy life-like stories this could be a great book for you.

A copy of Portrait of Woman in Ink: A Tattoo Storybook (published by Bird Brain Publishing) was received gratefully for the purpose of an honest and fair review.

You can purchase Kelly I. Hitchcock’s Portrait of Woman in Ink: A Tattoo Storybook at Amazon US and Amazon UK.

Reviewed by Caroline Barker

March 5, 2014 by Tina Williams

SPOTLIGHT Dancing on Air, Nicole Hurley-Moore: Includes Excerpt and Giveaway

Cinderella meets Swan Lake!

We are DELIGHTED to be taking part in the blog tour for Nicole Hurley-Moore’s historical romance Dancing on Air. In today’s spotlight you can find out about the book, read an excerpt and connect with the author. There is also an author giveaway. Scroll down for more information. Tina 🙂

TITLE– Dancing on Air
AUTHOR– Nicole Hurley-Moore
GENRE– Historical Romance
PUBLICATION DATE – 1st November 2013
LENGTH (Pages/# Words) – 182 pages
PUBLISHER – Escape Publishing – Harlequin Enterprises

Book Blurb/Synopsis –
Cinderella meets Swan Lake in a cross-class, Victorian novel about a ballerina, an aristocrat, and the space in between them.

Lisette yearns for freedom, security and love, but none are offered on the run-down stage of The Imperial Theatre. Instead she has hard work, a tyrannical aunt, and the hope of one day becoming a prima ballerina. Dancing on the stage she catches the attention of two powerful men: Lord Gainswith and Lord De Vale.

Lord Evander Gainswith never expected to fall in love, let alone with a woman so wholly unacceptable to his family and his peers. The sinister Lord De Vale covets Lisette’s youth and strength, and is willing to pay well for it. Lisette may dance roles in fairy tales and fantasies, but the real world is about to intrude, bringing with it the harsh realities of life for a young girl with dreams of rising above the demimonde.

Amazon Kindle Link | Barnes & Nobles | iTunes | Goodreads

London, 1884

Lisette was weightless as she leapt into a grand jeté across the stage. She was free and in that moment her heart soared past the walls of the Imperial Theatre. She landed lightly and began the fouetté en tournant, whipping her leg from fourth position to behind her knee; she created impetus to spin on pointe. After the eight revolutions, she planted her feet and lifted her hand in the air, stopping in front of her aunt. There was a slight wobble in her legs and she tried not to wince. Fixing a smile on her face, she prayed that her aunt had not noticed. Lisette had wanted perfection but had fallen short.
A trickle of sweat slid its way down the middle of her back. Her heart beat rapidly and she tried to catch her breath as her aunt stepped forward.
Marie Devoré regarded her niece for a second. Her eyes bore into Lisette’s before she raised her hand and slapped her across the face.
Lisette’s head jerked to the side as the burning sting radiated over her cheek.
‘What was that? A farce…? A comedy, perhaps?’
‘No, Aunt Marie, I am sorry that I wobbled,’ she said as she looked at the well‐worn wooden floor and resisted the urge to cradle her cheek.
‘When you finish, the movement must be sleek, clean and set in stone, without any trace of a tremble.’
‘Yes, Aunt.’
‘Go, out of my sight. Prepare the costumes for tonight’s performance,’ Marie said with a wave of her thin hand. ‘You will practice again tomorrow. Without the wobble.’
Lisette bowed her head before running off into the wings of the stage. She ran as fast as she could past the burgundy velvet curtains, beneath the scenery fly and the rigging, down the narrow flight of stairs that ran beneath the stage, until she was in the cool and narrow corridor, which led deeper into the bowels of the theatre. Her cheek burned but it was the sting of failure that hurt all the more.

Nicole has always been a lover of fairy tales, history and romance. She grew up in Melbourne and has travelled extensively, whilst living her life through the romance of books. Her first passion in life has always been her family, but after studying and achieving a History degree and Honours in Medieval Literature, she devoted her time to writing historical romance.

She is a full time writer who lives in the Central Highlands of Victoria with her family, where they live in the peaceful surrounds of a semi‐rural town.

Amazon Author Page | Website | Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

GIVEAWAY
$25 Amazon Gift Card (click on the link to enter)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Tour Organized By:

March 4, 2014 by Tina Williams

SPOTLIGHT A Saint’s Salvation, by Beverly Ovalle

A Contemporary/Military Romance

A BIG welcome today to author Beverly Ovalle who writes romances which literally sizzle off the page! A few weeks ago I was lucky enough to review Beverly’s latest release, A Saint’s Salvation, and today Beverly is sharing the book blurb, an excerpt, a trailer and some fun facts which spotlight some insider information. You can find the link to my review of A Saint’s Salvation and our reviews of Beverly’s other books at the end of this post. Tina 🙂

Angel’s life changed the minute Saint saved her from a grenade. Now Saint has a second chance to prove he’s the man for her.

A SAINT’S SALVATION

by Beverly Ovalle

Published by Secret Cravings Publishing

Released February 10, 2014

Blurb:

Corporal Nicholas ‘Saint’ Santiago needs to go home to reclaim the man he used to be. To be the man he was before Operation Enduring Freedom slowly hardened his heart. He needs to reconnect to the values and the reasons he is doing what he does. Saint also needs to try to forget the courageous woman he knows was meant to be his.

They each try to find someone to help them forget.

But what does fate have planned for them?

Excerpt:

A shout from Hamilton brought him back to the here and now. “Hey, Saint, do you see any trouble coming?” On guard at the west wall, Nick shook his head. Not that it was much of a wall, a couple of sandbags holding up a makeshift bullet riddled wooden fence, an illusion of safety and security.

“No, it all looks clear.” Well, as clear as normal, Nick thought. The Seabees and the Army Corp of Engineers had done their best to give them a clear line of site, but the rubble of buildings and piles of rock where there used to be a town never seemed to go away. Rebels constantly hid there, randomly firing at their FOB, a forward operating base in Helmand Provence, making it almost impossible to build a more secure perimeter.

Nick could see kids playing in the dirt. In the distance the locals were harvesting the poppy fields. Some of the largest poppy fields in the world were right outside the walls of the FOB. Beautiful when in bloom, they were more pervasive and did more damage than the terrorists.

“Anymore threats?”

“When aren’t there threats?” Every damn day there were threats. “Why, is there a problem?”

“The brass is making noise. When they do something stupid, we end up paying for it.” Hamilton sounded disgusted. As Hamilton spoke, shots were fired over and through the fence, adding more holes to the dilapidated barrier. Nick and Hamilton hit the ground, rolling toward the sandbags to return fire through the cracks. “See what I mean?”

“Yeah it’s been a while since they shot at us, at least a couple of days.” Nick’s sarcasm caused Hamilton to laugh.

“Probably someone is coming to pick up something from the poppy fields and they want to keep us from seeing who.” Hamilton glanced at him. “You doing okay?”

“Gettin’ there. It was just a shock, ya know?”

“Yeah, damn women. The least they could do is be faithful while we’re out here fighting.”

“Yeah, it sucks. I just can’t help thinking it’s my fault.”

“Fuck. How the hell could it be? You weren’t even there. The bitch knew you were gone, were going to be gone.” They fired shots, aiming at the muzzle flash in the distance. More Marines headed their way, sprinting from cover to cover. Perez came running, bringing out ammo and providing more fire power.

Another crack and Perez went down with a cry.

“Fuck! Medic! Man down!” The cry went out, passed through until the call went to the corpsman, while Nick tried to stem the blood flow. Hands pushed his away. Nick looked up. Petty Officer Jones, better known as Doc, had bandages ready.

“Help me roll this on until we can get him out of here.” Her voice sent a ripple through him. Nick had always ignored the attraction he had felt for her. He’d had his girl back home, and fraternization out here could get him thrown in the brig. Not to mention the brig out here was a hell hole.

Nick was leery about approaching Doc now. The Dear John letter had been a shock. He had known Leila for years. Hell, they had been friends since they were little. Her betrayal was unexpected. Nick didn’t even really know Doc. He could trust her with his life, but he wasn’t ready for another go around with his heart, no matter the attraction he felt.

Nick looked toward the fence line, rifle at the ready. Shots were firing sporadically around him. That’s when he saw it, the trail from a grenade launcher, unmistakable. Shit!

Fun Facts:

The name was changed less than two weeks before publication!

A Saint’s Salvation was inspired by my son’s tattoo

His tattoo says ‘St. Nicholas’ – the original of my book

A Saint’s Salvation took me eight months to write!

The name of A Saint’s Salvation was my editor’s suggestion

The teasers were made from photos from Afghanistan

The Marine in the teasers is my son

He only gave me permission to use his photo because he loves me

He only gave me permission if I cut off his head! LOL

Author Bio:

Beverly Ovalle lives in Wisconsin with her husband Edmond of 24 years and two Chinese Water Dragons. Having her own Dragons is expected as she is dragon crazy and anyone that walks in her house can tell. Her son Nicholas visits when he is on leave from the Marines. Her daughter Susannah visits to grocery shop in the pantry and to see what might be cooking for dinner.

Beverly has traveled around the world thanks to five years in the US Navy and has worked for the government in one capacity or another for the past 30 years. Beverly and her brothers have travelled most of the continental United States as children due to the station wagon from Hell. Still active with veterans, she is adjutant for her local AMVETS.

Beverly has been reading romances since her Aunt introduced her to the gothic romance in the fourth grade and is still reading every chance she gets.

Contact Links:

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

Tumblr: http://ovalleba.tumblr.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ovalleba

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/ovalleba/

Website: http://ovalleba.wix.com/beverly-ovalle

Goodreads at http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6982787.Beverly_Ovalle

AUTHORSdB at http://www.authorsdb.com/author-directory/preview?id=3752:beverly-ovalle

LinkedIn at http://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=236055547&trk=hb_tab_pro_top

Book Blogs: http://bookblogs.ning.com/profile/BeverlyOvalle

Twitter: https://twitter.com/SSLYblog

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

Blog: http://SSLYblog.wordpress.com

Our reviews of A Saint’s Salvation, Dragons’ Mate and Lightning Strike (click on the book titles for the links)

March 1, 2014 by Caroline Barker

The Baby & the Bride (The Debt & the Doormat #2) by Laura Barnard – blurb, interview & review!!!

The very much awaited sequel to Laura Barnard‘s ‘The Debt & the Doormat’ has been released today, 1st March 2014. I am thrilled to introduce ‘The Baby & the Bride’. Not only are we lucky enough to post the fantastic cover, blurb and review this hilarious chick-lit/rom-com, but we also take pride in interviewing Laura. This is certainly not one to be missed! We hope you enjoy! (Please scroll down for Laura’s interview and our review below). Caroline 🙂

BOOK BLURB:

Poppy and Jazz’s lives sound perfect on paper. Jazz has a new baby and Poppy’s getting married. But their realities are very different.

Poppy must strive to keep her cool new job with crazy hours, while trying to keep Ryan happy. Before she knows it her wedding has got out of control, thanks to her mother, the runners at work are bullying her, her parents are in financial difficulty and she’s doubting everything and everyone she ever knew.

Meanwhile Jazz is struggling with motherhood, something a credit card won’t fix. Why won’t this baby give her a break? Will Jazz be able to cope before she loses it?

And will Poppy make it down the aisle? Will Ryan even be waiting?

INTERVIEW with Laura Barnard:

Hi Laura and welcome to A Reader’s Review Blog. I would like to thank you in advance for taking the time out for answering some questions in regard to your new release, ‘The Baby & the Bride’, sequel to ‘The Debt & the Doormat’!

When did you realise there was going to be a sequel to The Debt & the Doormat, or was it planned before you began writing the first novel?

I never actually planned on writing a sequel. When I released The Debt & the Doormat I never had any idea of how popular it was going to be. It was only when book bloggers and fans started messaging me begging for one, I thought why not!

Does the comedy in your work reflect your personality? If so, would you say you were like Poppy, Jazz or any other character from your books?

I love all things comedy, although I didn’t exactly set out to make the book ‘funny.’ I just wanted it to be embarrassing and amusing; I definitely wasn’t expecting it to reach #1 Amazon best seller in free humour!

I’d say I’m definitely like Poppy. I’m so accident prone it’s ridiculous! My husband is constantly saying things like ‘What is wrong with you? Why can’t you get through the day without getting another bruise?!’ I think I just have no co-ordination and I don’t realise how wide my hips are – I’m constantly just walking into walls, window sills, door handles. It’s a wonder I survive at all! I also have a serious problem with saying ‘no’ to people, which lands me doing all kinds of ridiculous things. I can’t tell you the amount of times I’ve started a story and my friends have said ‘having problem saying no again, Laura? Stop saying yes!’ I’m just a people pleaser! But I’m trying to be better.

And have you written about any of your own experiences in your novels?

Yes, some of them have actually happened to me, some have happened to friends and some are pure imagination. I won’t embarrass myself and tell you which ones!

Both book covers look great! Could you let us know who designed them and how much input you had?

My friend Karis Staniforth from Deer Beth (www.deerbeth.co.uk) designed both. I had a lot of input and am naturally bossy. It’s hard when it’s a friend, as I can feel bad asking for things to be re-done, etc, but she’s always given me amazing covers. I’d definitely recommend her to everyone.

What influenced you to become a writer, and in particular to write a rom-com?

I’m obviously a massive reader and also enjoy watching loads of films. It’s naturally the genre I go towards. I don’t like the idea of writing something so ridiculously deep that it would depress me. I want to write something with a happy ending that will put a smile on someone’s face. That’s what I want when I escape into a book. Unless I fancy some book porn ha ha!

When taking a break from writing what do you like to do?

Take a break? What is that? Ha ha! I like to hang out with my family, who I’m very close to. My friends are also a tonic. We go see movies, talk about how much weight we want to lose and discuss the filthy books we’ve read. I know I can always call them and whinge down the phone ‘I think this book is going to be crap,’ and they’ll tell me to shut the hell up and get on with it. It’s the smack back to reality I need. Other than that I love to sleep! I could seriously sleep twelve hours a night if allowed to.

Will there be a third book in the series?

No. This is definitely the last instalment for the foreseeable future. I’ve wrapped everything up at the end and want to concentrate on my next stand-alone book. As a reader I can get frustrated with a series, as you don’t feel closure until the next book, which you normally have to wait a year for. Although never say never. Jazz does inherit her trust fund money when she turns thirty and this could change a lot of dynamics within her relationships, which could be fun to look into.

To read our review of The Debt & the Doormat (Book 1) by Laura Barnard please click here. This first book is FREE on Amazon UK and Amazon US. The Debt & the Doormat was one of my Top Reads for 2013. Go grab a copy now!

REVIEW of The Baby & The Bride (Laura Barnard) by Caroline Barker:

She’s done it again! Another fantastic masterpiece in chick-lit/rom-com from Laura Barnard! Reading The Baby & the Bride is like meeting up with an old, close friend. Within seconds you become familiar with the characters you know and loved from Book 1, The Debt & the Doormat, and can easily relate to them, experiencing their roller-coaster of emotions. To read this book, you will need more wine, more choccies and be prepared for giggles throughout as Poppy and Jazz’s lives are turned upside down with some rather embarrassing moments along the way!

Oh dear, Poppy! Some things never change. She is still the doormat she always was, although trying not to be. It seems she’s running around after everyone like a headless chicken whilst Ryan is left waiting! Although very exciting, it can also be a disaster at times when your mother tries to plan your whole wedding for you and you haven’t a chance to express what you’d like! And Jazz, what trouble are you in this time? If it’s not debt, it’s a baby! What a fab start to the sequel, with great storylines for both characters and just as much excitement and tension as before. Laura Barnard has created a sequel that is just as good as the first.

In The Baby & the Bride Poppy and Jazz, although more grown up and settled in some ways, have their own crisis’ to deal with. At the same time they try to look out for each other, sometimes keeping secrets to protect the other from being hurt and yet always there to help each other when they are in need. We all need a Poppy and Jazz in our life, needing a pick up from time to time.

As a mother, I can completely relate to Jazz as early motherhood for her is exactly how I felt when I had my first – without too much exaggeration! In fact it was so precise, I thought that Laura Barnard was writing about me! The tiredness, the depression and the downright humiliating moments that childbirth and a baby can bring. But did I say depression? Well, yes, but Laura has a fantastic way of turning it around, uplifting these moments whilst at the same time still keeping them real. She makes it so natural for the reader to relate to the characters.

One of my favourite aspects of The Baby & the Bride is that Laura Barnard has kept all of the characters from The Debt & the Doormat. The reader can follow up Poppy and Jazz’s housemates, families and colleagues. Many of which have their own storylines which can interfere with Poppy and Jazz’s life at times, making their lives all the more topsy turvy! As Poppy hates to let anyone down she almost puts everybody else first, even before her own wedding!

The reader also has more of an incite into Ryan’s family (which brings along it’s own troubles which adds to all the chaos) and Poppy’s brother, Ollie. There is no mistake that Ryan is a hottie, handsome, sexy and affectionate. But as the reader discovers more about Ollie I’m sure there won’t be any disappointments there either!

As mentioned in my previous review of Book 1, this series is Bridget Jones meets Miranda Hart. As well as being heart-warming and sweet, one cannot escape the humour, the awkward moments and the slaptick. And when one sarky accusing question ends with ‘are we?‘ it reminded me of the Miranda tv series and I was in stitches. This is brilliant writing that had me laughing out loud so many times.

Due to the nature and fun style of Laura Barnard’s writing the series/book is a quick, fun read that leaves you feeling sparkly and energetic. It is completely uplifting. I strongly recommend that Book 1, The Debt & the Doormat, is read first, and at the moment there is no excuse as it is absolutely FREE on Amazon. However, The Baby & the Bride is written so well that new readers to this series could read this as a stand alone.

I cannot get enough of Laura Barnard’s writing. May she write many more wonderful, sweet and delightfully fun work in the future. This is an author not to be missed!

The Baby & the Bride was provided by the author for the purpose of an honest and fair review.

You can find The Baby & the Bride on Amazon UK and Amazon US.

You can also find the first book of the series, The Debt & the Doormat, for FREE on Amazon UK and Amazon US.

Contact info:

Laura would love you to check out her Facebook page at www.facebook.com/laurabarnardbooks and while you’re visiting please give her a ‘like’!

Laura also has her own website at www.laurabarnardbooks.co.uk and is available on Twitter: @BarnardLaura

Reviewed by Caroline Barker

February 28, 2014 by Tina Williams

* BLOG TOUR * Discovered, by Kim Black

Erotic Contemporary Romance

Today we welcome Kim Black’s Discovered Blog Tour to A Readers Review Blog! This book involves a woman scorned, who is done with love, and a sexy French billionaire who takes an interest in her. Scroll down for a synopsis of the book and to read an excerpt. You can also find the links to the book trailers and purchase links, learn about the author and enter the fabulous GIVEAWAY! The novella is also available at a special discounted price for the duration of the tour – details at the end of the post. 🙂

Please note, Discovered is a hot erotic romance and by reading any further you are confirming that you are over the age of 18.

synopsis

Emily Roberts was done with men! She believed she was content with just focusing on her career. After Adam, her ex, cheated on her with not one but two of her co-workers, Emily fled from her former workplace, forgoing her internship and decided to start anew.

Though her decision to write off love had held up for over a year, her chastity belt would soon be put to the test when Julien Belmont, a French billionaire, takes an interest in her.

In one night, she questions everything she believes and though she is determined that he is no different from the rest, she finds herself in a world wind of affairs, lies and a tug of war between old and new men…

Can she learn to love again or will she flee from Julien, who she admits is the best lover she has ever had?

Julien Belmont is a gorgeous, commanding, and passionate Frenchman who enjoys his freedom. His ever growing sexual hunger makes it so his appetite is never quite quenched. At last not until he meets Emily. One night with her changes everything he has ever believed in.

Will his past destroy his potential future with Emily? Or will the fire between them burn eternal!

Note: This book is the first part of a series and is designed to be read in order.

~~INTENDED FOR ADULTS 18 AND ABOVE~~

This book contains erotic content and is not suitable for readers under the age of 18.

goodreads

purchase links

amazon us | amazon uk | amazon ca | B&n

excerpt (for age 18+ only)

I exited the car and walked over to him, grabbing him by his silk blue tie and led him to my door. As we entered, Julien, a little predictably, was all over me, tugging and pulling, kneading my skin with his strong hands. We were still tangled together, his lips devouring mine, as he kicked the door shut. Oh how I missed you!

Reluctantly, I pulled away, prying his greedy hands away, and pulling on his tie as I led him into my bedroom. I could feel his intense eyes probing me from behind. Yes, Julien… this was now my show, I’m in charge, I told myself. That first night he was the one who conquered my body but tonight I would seek my revenge on him, exploring him completely.

I brought him to the side of the bed, pulling on him so that his face was inches from mine. I brushed my lips lightly against his as I said, “Don’t move.”

I slid my body onto the queen sized bed, facing him. I loved the animalistic and passionate desire in his eyes as he watched me.

“Slowly take off your clothes Julien,” I commanded.

He groaned softly as he did as he was told. He unzipped and dropped his pants, letting them fall to his feet. His erection sprung out from the confines of his boxers, engorged and ready for attention; and oh what a delightful sight it was! Built perfectly it was long and thick, jerking eagerly as I looked him over. Each time it twitched, my mouth watered at the thought of taking him into my hungry mouth. He removed his pinstriped navy jacket and tossed it aside before finally taking off his shirt and tie, standing completely nude before me. The sight of him melted my insides and a flow of liquid oozed freely between my legs.

“Do you want me Julien?” I asked as I moved closer to the edge of the bed. I watched as his breathing increased, his eyes barely open, but still intense with greedy, lusty desire. The unhinged animalistic man, that had taken me so roughly before, was near the surface and burning to take control but I was not ready to let him take over just yet. Slowly I undressed, leisurely unbuttoning my shirt and slipping my skirt off. I made sure to linger longer than usual, watching as his breath caught in his throat each time an article of my clothing was removed.

“Emily…” he groaned as my bra came off, almost sounding like he was in pain. I left my thong panties on just to extend his torment. He had to wait just a little longer for that. This was definitely my show now and I wanted to take full advantage.

“You didn’t answer my question Julien,” I teased as I nested my legs in between his, inching closer and closer to his engorged thick erection and taking him into my hand. My eyes never left his.

He hissed in agony. “Yes I want you Mon chaton, my kitten. Why must you torture me so?” he said as his eyes closed tightly, tilting his head back. I knew that men like Julien weren’t used to relinquishing power to their women. He was the dominator, but not tonight. Tonight, he would submit first and maybe, just maybe, I would restore the balance of power.

My hands were still on him as I stroked his manhood softly; inching closer, my mouth hovered over him, allowing my hot breath to caress his mushroomed head, causing him to let out a deep, guttural groan.

“How much Julien? How much do you want me baby?” I asked while looking up at him through my lashes. Before he could open his mouth to answer, my lips took him whole. My tongue massaging him with purpose as his body went rigid in agony and pleasure. Oh how I missed him, I thought again.

Slowly I worked him, sucking, and licking; taking him deeper and deeper as his hands found their way to my hair, and guided me down his thick, lovely shaft. His sharp indrawn breath pleased me as I took him in all the way. I knew he was close because a small squirt of liquid caressed my tongue, letting me know I had to stop. I pulled away, letting out a popping sound from the release of suction.

“Don’t,” he cried out, wanting for more.

“Ah, patience Mon amour,” I giggled as I recalled him saying those same words to me when I whimpered for more from him. I felt powerful, sexy and I loved it!

Realizing my chosen phrase, his lips curled up, “Mean, mean woman you are Emily…” he teased.

Slowly I turned over onto all fours. I liked the obedient Julien but it was time to summon the primal animal within him and I knew just what would do the trick. I perked my ass up in the air, giving him a lovely view, my mound wet and dripping with excitement. Come for me Julien, let that animal out.

He groaned and slowly walked up to me, attempting to grab me, but I moved away, “Tsk, tsk, tsk… Didn’t I tell you not to move,” I said, my face turned to him with my ass still in the air. “You don’t want to get punished, do you?” I scowled playfully.

To my surprise, he stepped back, although I could see I was testing his patience. It wouldn’t be long before that primal animal inside of him came rushing to the surface, commanding its power back and taking me just the way it had before. I had just a few more minutes so I had to make it count. Determined, I brought my hand to my mound, caressing my nub as he watched, with his chest flaring up and down, and his eyes seemingly mesmerized.

“Tell me Julien, do you like what I’m doing?” I asked, half teasing but fully aroused.

He grunted, “Ah huh…” his eyes were fixated on my swollen mound as I teased my aching nub.

It was now or never. I slid my finger through my silken folds, feeling my body clench around it, moaning in enjoyment and felt him itching to move closer but halting. I pulled my finger out of me and brought it to my mouth, licking it painfully slow, and tasting my sweet essence. Bingo!

book trailer

Part 1: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0LAHEUiAtB0

Part 2: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DdI7sxWKoYM

about the author

Kim was born and raised in the great state of New York. She is a newly self-published author.

She has always believed that one day she would become an author. She enjoyed reading and writing all of her life and had always felt that it was somewhat of a calling for her. At age 28, she had no idea that she would become an Erotic Romance Author, mostly because she just got into reading Romances and instantly fell in love with the genre.

Kim enjoys the passions of love and believes that there is no greater feeling than the initial jilt we get when we first meet that right person. Wanting to provide romance readers with stories that they can feel and get lost in, Kim decided in September 2013 to become a published author. Her first debut novel is “DISCOVERED” which will be a part of “The Cover Series,” debuted on December 28th 2013.

When she is not writing, she enjoys hanging out with her friends and family and reading. Her favorite books are always romance based with a healthy dose of erotica. ♥

contact kim

WEBSITE: http://kimblackbooks.wordpress.com/

PERSONAL FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/kimblackauthor

FAN PAGE: https://www.facebook.com/KimBlackAuthorPage

TWITTER: http://www.twitter.com/kimblackbooks

GOODREADS: http://www.goodreads.com/kimblack

SMASHWORDS: https://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/KimBlackBooks

AMAZON: http://amazon.com/author/kimblack

giveaway

click on the rafflecopter link below

a Rafflecopter giveaway

February 26, 2014 by Tina Williams

Connected by the Sea and Breaking through the Waves, Hawaiian Crush Series, by E. L. Todd

Sexy, Gripping and Intense Read!

New Adult Contemporary Romance

This hot and sexy New Adult romance, set in the beautiful island of Hawaii is way more than it first seems. It not only examines love and lust and the importance of trust and friendship, but also delves into the darker issues of loss, guilt, jealousy, violence and abuse.

Book Blurb: Sydney is attending University of Hawaii on Oahu where she’s majoring in Marine Biology. She loves her friends, her job, and her school. Since her ex-boyfriend cheated on her six months ago, she hasn’t moved on to anybody new yet. When Coen catches her eye, she’s immediately attracted to him in a very carnal way. She refuses to let herself feel that way because he’s a heartbreaker just like her ex was. But when she’s called to her professor’s office because she’s asked to tutor someone, she doesn’t realize it’s Coen. Will he convince her that he really is boyfriend material or will he turn out just as she suspects?

Well, this series is one sexy read! The chemistry between Sydney and Coen just sizzles off the page. Early on in the first novel we see how Sydney is attracted to Coen, who has the reputation of being a player. When they are unexpectedly brought together in the role of tutor and pupil their mutual attraction ignites and they are drawn together in some scorching and passionate scenes. Coen wants to make their relationship official, but the situation is complicated due to Sydney finally realising that her best friend Henry is deeply in love with her and she fears that knowing she is with another will destroy him. Added to this complication is Coen’s ex-girlfriend, who is convinced that Coen is hers and wants him back. The first book also hints at issues from Sydney’s past which haunt her and resurface in the second instalment. Can she accept Coen as her one and only before it is too late and can she trust him with her secrets? The road to Sydney and Coen’s HEA is certainly fraught with difficulties.

Sydney is a role model for all young women. She is a star pupil, good at her job and loves the island, the sea and its wildlife. She also values the ties of friendship and is especially concerned about how Henry will react when he finds out about her relationship with Coen. Although she appears strong she has a hidden vulnerability due to events in the past, which we come to comprehend more fully as the series progresses.

Coen is simply drop dead gorgeous! He is an alpha male with a big heart and falls deeply for Sydney, attracted to her beauty inside and out. I really felt his frustration with how Sydney dealt with Henry’s feelings for her and the fact that she concealed their relationship, although I came to understand her own personal reasons for it as the plot unfolded. The love making scenes between Sydney and Coen were super hot, sensual and descriptive (very little being left to the imagination) and make this series definitely for readers over 18. At times the sex fest was such that I had to pause and take a break and catch a breath to calm my racing heart!

The way the author described the characters and their behaviour was realistic overall. The pacing was good as was the story arc and romance. I also liked the element of suspense – what was Sydney afraid of from her past and would it come back to haunt her and would she finally get together with Coen? The secondary characters were also well defined and I enjoyed the descriptions of the island and its wildlife, especially the scenes on the beach and in the sea. The series is a great read any time of the year to bring some sunshine and romance into your life and I recommend it to adult readers, particularly those who love New Adult reads.

PS – Henry gets his own book too in Connected by the Tide. 🙂

Reviewed by Tina Williams

Copies of these books were given to me by the author for he purpose of a fair and honest review.

Connect with the Author:

https://www.facebook.com/ELTodd42

http://eltodd42.blogspot.co.uk/

Purchase Links:

Amazon US

http://www.amazon.com/Connected-Sea-Hawaiian-Crush-1-ebook/dp/B00I4JXQXC/ref=la_B00EO8FWYS_1_4?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1393436195&sr=1-4

http://www.amazon.com/Breaking-Through-Waves-Hawaiian-Crush-ebook/dp/B00I4FZR56/ref=la_B00EO8FWYS_1_3?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1393436195&sr=1-3

Amazon UK

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Connected-Sea-Hawaiian-Crush-1-ebook/dp/B00I4JXQXC/ref=la_B00EO8FWYS_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1393436511&sr=1-1

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Breaking-Through-Waves-Hawaiian-Crush-ebook/dp/B00I4FZR56/ref=la_B00EO8FWYS_1_4?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1393436511&sr=1-4

February 26, 2014 by Tina Williams

COVER REVEAL Unforgiven: A Forbidden Bond Novel – Book 2, by Cat Miller

Sexy New Paranormal Romance Series!

This series promises to be a must read for fans of vamps and the paranormal! The first book in this series, Unbound, will be released on April 1st, followed by the second book, Unforgiven. We are lucky today to be able to give you a peek of the gorgeous cover for this book, due out on May 27th. Read on for the book blurb and buy links for book 1 so that you can get ahead and reserve this series for your ‘to read’ pile! You can also check out the links for the author, Cat Miller.

Tina. 🙂

Unbound: A Forbidden Bond Novel – Book 1

Girl gone wild…

College is supposed to be a time of discovery, but Danielle Vaughn never imaged it would be like this: heightened senses, supernatural powers, and a sudden craving for human blood. Dani is a demi-vamp, the daughter of a human psychic and a vampire noble, a living secret kept hidden for twenty-one years.

As Dani’s heritage manifests itself, her thirst for blood is matched only by her hunger for Chase Diedrick. But as the son of the Vampire Council’s most powerful ruling family, Chase is already promised to another. Dani saw Council politics destroy her mother’s life; she won’t let the same thing happen to her. Besides, there’s no shortage of men who are eager to satisfy her every need, including the alluring vampire Kayden.

Unfortunately, Dani also has no shortage of enemies. Her heightened powers of telepathy and telekinesis attract the attention of a rogue vamp who preys on gifted vampires, absorbing their skills along with their lifeblood. Now, Dani must seek the Council’s help to quickly master her new vampire life…or risk losing it.

http://amzn.com/B00FPTJX7W

www.catmillerbooks.com

www.facebook.com/catmillerwriter

https://twitter.com/CatMillerAuthor

February 21, 2014 by Tina Williams

A Saint’s Salvation, by Beverly Ovalle

A Love and Life Affirming Sensual Read!

Contemporary/Military Romance – Novella (61 pages)

I jumped at the chance to review author Beverly Ovalle’s new release, her contemporary romance, A Saint’s Salvation. I was immediately drawn to the fact that the book tackles the issues of physical and psychological trauma which the men and women in military service risk every day, as they put their lives on the line. I was also curious to see how a contemporary tale would compare with the author’s previous novellas in erotic romance which I enjoyed so much, Dragons’ Mate and Lightning Strike (scroll down for links to our reviews).

Book Blurb

They each try to find someone to help them forget.

However, fate has plans for the two of them.

My Review

I loved how A Saint’s Salvation is bursting with pride that we all have in our service men and women. It also highlights the many scars that they may bear, physically and emotionally, upon their return from active service, in what I feel is a realistic way and how important it is for them to reconnect with civilian life to aid the healing process.

At the start of the novella, the hero Nick has reached a low point, after receiving a ‘Dear John’ letter from his childhood sweetheart and having been ground down by the horrors of war. It is only when he saves the life of Petty Officer Angelina Jones, a doctor, that he believes that life is worth living again, as he realises exactly how much her cares for her. On his return to the US, fate brings them unexpectedly together again and there are some hot and sensual scenes as mutual attraction and desire, hitherto repressed, finally ignite. These scenes are both passionate and tender and downright SMOKING HOT! Angelina is one lucky girl!

I enjoyed the character of both the hero and heroine immensely. They are both strong characters, attempting to cope with their war inflicted wounds in their own way. Despite the strength they show they are also vulnerable and I found the passages where they share their inner fears with each other immensely touching. Nick is a hero who every girl would be proud to call their own and has a wicked sense of humour. He also knows exactly what Angelina needs to help her rediscover her confidence and self-worth as a woman and how to persuade her that he is serious about her. Angelina welcomes the fact that Nick sees her as a woman, injury or no injury. They are both very believable characters and a memorable couple.

I recommend A Saint’s Salvation to readers of contemporary and sensual romance.

Reviewed by Tina Williams

A copy of A Saint’s Salvation was given to me by the author for the purpose of a fair and honest review.

Published by Secret Cravings Publishing

Cover Artist: Dawne Dominique

Purchase Links

Secret Cravings Publishing

Amazon US Amazon UK

Author Links:

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SslySmileSomebodyLovesYou?ref=hl

Website: http://SSLYblog.wordpress.com

For our reviews of Beverly Ovalle’s erotic romance novellas, Dragons’ Mate and Lightning Strike click on the links:

http://areadersreviewblog.com/2013/04/17/dragons-mate-by-beverly-ovalle/

http://areadersreviewblog.com/2013/12/05/lightning-strike-by-beverly-ovalle/

February 21, 2014 by Caroline Barker

You Might Just Get It (short story) by Julia Barrett

Short, contemporary erotic romance (Recommended for readers 17rs+)

Book blurb: Kate has locked herself out of her new apartment building for the third time in a week. She’s on the stoop in the rain, barefoot, shivering and soaked to the skin. Her neighbour, Eric, arrives home in the nick of time and lets her in. That’s twice now he’s saved the day. When he invites her for a quick supper, how can she say no?
Eric has been waiting for an opportunity to get to know Kate. His kitchen window faces hers across the courtyard and he noticed her right away. How could he not, with her lovely halo of short curls and her beautiful smile? When he finds her stranded on the stoop, he gets to play the hero. When she agrees to his dinner invitation, he hopes he’ll get to play a lot more than that.

You Might Just Get It is a short, hot and fun contemporary read. It’s only 15 pages long and easily fits in-between some lengthier novels, making it refreshing and handy if you only have a few minutes to spare. Due to the content I would recommend it for readers of 17 yrs plus.

Although it doesn’t mention it in the blurb this book does cover age difference, as Kate is in her early forties and Eric in his twenties. I found this area of the story interesting as not too many authors explore these types of situations. Kate is an attractive, sexy woman who certainly is young at heart, and Eric likes a woman with experience and maturity. He quite possibly regards Kate as a challenge, to see if he can win her affections over. It is obvious that Eric is serious about Kate. Julia Barrett has written this well and made these characters believable.

However, some aspects were a little too convenient for my liking; the woman he liked happened to be the one he could help and she doesn’t take her time in getting to know him. Although for a short read, initially written as a Cougar story, it is understandable that the characters become intimate fairly quickly.

I am still unsure how I feel about Eric’s character. He’s a young guy that finds himself attracted to his neighbour. But as they share dinner together and it is revealed how he sees her through his window, it does seem a little creepy and stalker-ish! And then, as they become intimate, my feelings change again as he leaves you spellbound and totally into the story. With a few more pages to delve into the lives of Eric and Kate a little more, the reader would feel a little closer to the characters.

You Might Just Get It makes a great, few minutes read. It is hot, sensual and very physical throughout as well as being well written. Don’t let it get away!

You can find You Might Just Get It on Amazon US and Amazon UK.

Reviewed by Caroline Barker