December 15, 2015 by Tina Williams

REVIEW ~ Discovered (Forsaken Blood Series, book 1), by Em Taylor

Sci-Fi Romance

Adult/18+ read

Contains fangtastic toe-curling lovemaking scenes!

I have been eagerly awaiting Discovered from the pen of Em Taylor. I am already a fan of the author’s Regency romances and I couldn’t wait to read her spin on the sexy space Vampyr Lachlan! I am partial to sci-fi romances and also vampire heroes and this novel combines both in a mouth-watering combination which contains a drop dead gorgeous world-weary alien Vampyr and a sassy human heroine. Scroll down for my review. 🙂

Book Blurb

Lachlan Ethelred Mackenzie looks like an ordinary sexy university professor, but for over a millennium, he’s been one of a number of his kind trying to steer humanity towards the heavens. But humans are slow and stubborn.

It’s been a long slow journey since the spaceship from Vampyras experienced technical difficulty near Earth in 1006 and the Vampyrs had to abandon ship, and learn to survive on a planet filled with primitive beings.

It’s now 2061, and humanity is heading to Mars – perhaps now the Vampyrs can research space folding technology away from prying human eyes.

Psychologist, Doctor Kate Maxwell is excited about going to Mars—except for one thing – she’s terrified of the journey. A space accident when she was twelve has left her with PTSD and a fear of space travel. But when the handsome Professor, Lachlan Mackenzie becomes her cabin mate she finds herself falling for him all too easily. But why is he so reticent? He’s cute, single and seems altogether perfect.

Things are getting complicated for Lachlan. He’s falling for the sexy red-headed psychologist, his long-lost daughter is on board the spaceship to Mars and she has no clue what or who he is and it seems that the leader of the Vampyr council is plotting something. Lachlan has too many secrets and too many problems. And Kate is the only thing he wants. Can he keep his hands and his fangs away from her? Does he want to? And what will happen if she discovers his secret?

All hell is about to break loose.

This book contains scenes of an adult nature.

My Review – Five Stars!

Fun, Sassy and Sensual – A fab start to a new series!

Em Taylor’s Discovered is a fun, sassy and sensual read which pairs a sexy space Vampyr/university professor Lachlan MacKenzie with human Psychologist Kate Masters. Set in the future, in Edinburgh, in space and on Mars, it will appeal to readers of paranormal romance and sci-fi romance alike. It is a world where humans are still unaware of the existence of an alien species, Vampyrs, who have been living amongst them for hundreds of years since becoming stranded on Earth.

I loved how the attraction between Lachlan and Kate is so instantaneous. However, their relationship is far from plain sailing due not least to Lachlan’s reticence to get involved with a human again on account of unfortunate experiences in his past. There are a number of misunderstandings and some hilarious scenes as the pair circle around each other even before they embark on their mission to Mars.

Lachlan is one sexy Vampyr – he has looks and brains and manages to combine old world charm with an outlook which is not out of place in the world of 2061 when the novel is set. He tries not to give into his attraction to Kate as he wants to protect her from what his true nature is, lest he frightens her. Nonetheless, sharing quarters on board ship inevitably leads to some intimate scenes and the sexual tension and mayhem increase and the inevitable happens! Of course initially Kate has no ideas that Lachlan is an alien, least of all a Vampyr and she is suitably shocked when this comes to light: cue a great deal of soul searching amongst some sizzling love-making scenes as to what their future together will be! The read contains a great deal of humour, but also touches on some dark issues from both Lachlan’s and Kate’s past.

I really enjoyed the premise of the novel, that of aliens having lived amongst us for centuries, giving rise to the vampire myths. The novel contains a lot of humour, in particular the character of Meg, the leader of the Vampyr Council, and her interactions with both Kate and Lachlan were priceless! If Lachlan comes across as a little world-weary from his long life as a Vampyr, Meg is positively jaded and I am curious to know exactly what she is plotting and if she too will find her other half!

I recommend Discovered to readers of sci-fi and paranormal romance. Fans of Lindsay Sands Argeneau Vampire series and Evangeline Anderson’s Brides of the Kindred series will especially love this novel. Readers who up until now are only familiar with Em Taylor’s Regency Romances may also wish to indulge. It is a fab start to what promises to be an addictive series.

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.

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December 12, 2015 by Tina Williams

REVIEW ~ A Discreet Gentleman of Discovery (The Discreet Gentleman Series book 1), by Kris Tualla

Historical Romance

Book Blurb

Brander Hansen lost his hearing at age seven, his inheritance at twenty-three. Furious at his father’s betrayal, Brander leaves home to make his way as Lord Olsen, a ‘discreet gentleman of discovery’ in 1721 Christiania, Norway. He intends to gain his own estate and begins buying the debt markers on Kildahlshus.

Baroness Regin Kildahl’s husband has gambled away her estate and sunk to more dangerous habits. She writes to Lord Olsen soliciting his help saving both her husband and her home. When her husband dies, Regin offers herself and her title to anyone who will redeem his gambling debts, unaware of Brander’s plan and circumventing his efforts.

The Hansen heir accepts her offer and hires Lord Olsen to deliver his bride. Brander’s choices are clear: give the widow and her estate to his younger brother, or claim them both as his own. But who would accept a deaf husband?

My Review

A Real Treat for Fans of Historical Romance!

***** (5 Stars) TOP READ

I was totally entranced by this romance by Kris Tualla. A Discreet Gentleman of Discovery is a real treat for fans of historical romance, combining passion, deceit, murder and mystery into one page-turning read. It is the first book that I have read by the author and I loved her voice and how she effortlessly pulled me into the world of early eighteenth century Norway. The angst driven romance between Brander and Regin, the hero and the heroine, is beautiful to behold and has many twists and turns.

Brander, the ‘discreet gentleman of discovery’ of the title is in modern parlance a private investigator/spy, employed by others to unearth secrets and solve crimes. He is also an aristocrat, an eldest son, who, on account of his deafness and inability to speak, was disinherited by his father, who, deeming Brander unfit, made his younger son his heir. Brander is determined to make his own fortune and purchase an estate to prove his worth to himself and his estranged family. Niels, his valet and cousin works alongside him and acts as his ears and confidant.

When Brander is employed by Regin to find out about how her husband’s debts are bankrupting her home, and subsequently witnesses his death by foul means, their lives begin to get entangled. Brander has his eye on Regin’s ancestral home and unbeknown to her purchases her husband’s markers. Yet the lady, in a desperate effort to save her estate, offers her hand to any man who can pay for her debts. Brander thus finds himself in the impossible position of transporting this woman, whom he has developed strong feelings for, across the frozen countryside of Norway to his own ancestral home to deliver her into the hands of his younger brother and his father’s heir.

Brander is a tortured alpha male to die for! He is ashamed of the impact of his disability on others, believing that he is fit to be no woman’s consort and is therefore sworn off marriage. However, he is attracted to Regin unlike no other woman and they share some passionate encounters. Yet even if he was able to put his fears aside, how could he possibly expect her to want him when he has deceived her so badly on not one but two accounts? Also how will his family react when he appears at their door with his brother’s bride after they have not seen him since he stormed out of their household many years ago?

Regin has no idea who Brander is, least of all that he is the brother of her intended. Also she does not realise that the debts she is liable for are now owed to him. She is hugely attracted to him and admires him for his inner strength and tenacity on dealing with his disability and also for his skill in solving crimes, all of which become apparent during their long and arduous journey. Yet how will she react when she finds out about his duplicity? And if she can overcome his betrayal how can she persuade him that he will make a fit husband? What future can they possibly have as she is now promised to another?

Brander is so conflicted and many of the passages are truly heartrending as he battles with his emotions. Regin too fights her own battle as she embarks on a future with an unknown bridegroom whilst she is harbouring growing feelings for her escort. They are a perfect match for each other and Regin sees him first and foremost as a man, not someone with a disability. The author does an excellent job of exploring how early eighteenth century society would have treated those with hearing loss and I loved how Regin and his cousin Niels communicate with him using sign language.

The book is a standalone in that it has a definite conclusion. However, I’m pleased to note that the couple’s story continues in further books in the series.

I wholeheartedly recommend A Discreet Gentleman of Discovery to lovers of historical 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.

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July 26, 2015 by Tina Williams

REVIEW ~ Knight’s Captive, by Samantha Holt

Elizabethan Historical Romance

Blurb

Queen Elizabeth sits on England’s throne. A once Catholic country is now ruled by a Protestant queen. In a time of fear, turmoil and bold deeds, many heroes are seldom written into history…

After aiding in the capture of the flagship Rosario and helping to defeat the Spanish Armada, Sir Henry Bainbridge is set to make his mark on the world and strengthen his position as a man of authority. Now in charge of the Spanish prisoners, Henry must negotiate their return to Spain and manage the care of his people.

However, when he comes across a woman amongst the survivors, his future plans are put on hold. The exotic beauty draws him in and his honour will not let him doing anything other than protect her. Henry takes her into his home and places her under house arrest. He can only hope his principles are enough to protect her from his desires…

In a time when small differences spark fear into the heart of many, Antonia finds herself drawn into a battle between a zealous priest, a discontented population and the most honourable man she’s ever met. Nothing can ever come of their attraction, not while he’s holding her father prisoner and not when so many differences divide them.

Or can it?

My Review

Sweet Captor/Captive Romance ***** (FIVE STARS)

Samantha Holt’s latest release, Knight’s Captive, is a lovely romantic read. The narrative takes place in 1588 against the backdrop of the attempted invasion of England by the formidable Spanish Armada. The safety of the country is in doubt and the Protestant queen Elizabeth is keen to put down any possibility of Papist plots, which may aid the enemy.

The hero Sir Henry is stunned to find a young woman aboard the Spanish flagship that has been captured. Antonia is the daughter of the captain and whilst the captured Spanish crew are taken into custody and sequestered in the local village, she is taken to Henry’s ancestral home under house arrest, her fate, like that of her compatriots dependent on diplomatic negotiations between the two warring countries.

Henry is immediately drawn to the young woman admiring her spirit, bravery and beauty. He is perplexed at what would prompt someone of the fair sex to risk their life aboard the ship. There is clearly a lot more to Antonia than meets the eye and as the days pass and the couple spend time together, they begin to mean a lot more to each other than captor and captive. Yet what chance of a HEA do they have, when Antonia is effectively an enemy and a pawn in the ensuing diplomatic relations? She is a Catholic reviled by his queen and those like the local zealot priest, who would see the Catholic faith and their followers destroyed. Moreover Antonia has her own personal demons to contend with.

I immediately rooted for the heroine and admired her for her spirit, strength and compassion. A young widow she has a dark past which is revealed as the plot unfolds. Henry is an honourable man and determined that no harm will befall Antonia whilst she is under his protection, even from his own desires….. The romance is overall a sweet one, although it does have some sensual scenes. I particularly liked the sexual tension between the couple as they both seek to deny their growing feelings for each other, in the belief that nothing can come of a liaison which could end in tragedy. It is a page turning read as the themes woven into the novel come together the couple must fight more than their own feelings before their fates are decided.

I loved reading a novel set in this time period and the descriptions of the devastation of the Spanish flagship at sea, village life and Henry’s household evoked the period beautifully. It was all the more fascinating as instead of being set at court, it focused on the countryside, where the impact of the attempted invasion and its aftermath on the local populace and the plight of those who still practice the Catholic faith is explored.

A super read for lovers of historical romance.

Purchase links:

US: http://amzn.to/1NL2c5n

UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01054FDEI

Connect with the Author

Find Samantha on Facebook

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July 3, 2015 by Tina Williams

REVIEW ~ Her Heart’s Surrender, by Allison Merritt

Sensual Viking Romance

Book Blurb

After sneaking out with her brother, Eoghann, one night, Ealasaid discovers Viking ships sailing up the river to sack their home in Northumbria. They attempt to warn their father, but it’s too late and the Vikings slaughter or enslave all the inhabitants of Suibhne. In attempt to save her family, Ealasaid stabs a young Viking warrior, but her father is killed, her family scattered, and she’s taken to Solstad Hall where she serves as a thrall for the Viking king. Years later, the king’s son, Hella, ventures on many raids and to trading sites across Europe, but his desire is to set up a farm in Solstad with Ealasaid as the thrall in charge of his household. He tells her of his plan and they expression their passion for one another. When Hella petitions the king for her freedom, but is turned down and order to the Frankish lands in retaliation for raids on the Viking coastal villages. Ealasaid, aware the king would never free her, tells him that he should look for a brighter future across the sea, away from his father and resigns herself to be his slave for the remainder of her life.Called home to watch his father die, Hella is stunned when his father’s final command is that Hella must marry or the throne will go to his adopted brother. Furious with his father’s orders and worried about being left without lands or money, Hella looks to the thrall who’s always captured his attention—Ealasaid. Ealasaid harbors a secret—the single afternoon she spent in Hella’s arms resulted in a son, her treasure, her reason for living.

My Review

A Powerful Enemies to Lovers Romance *****

Her Heart’s Surrender is a powerful and heartrending romance between the Viking Hella and the Saxon Ealasaid. The enemies to lovers trope is one of my favourite in the romance genre and this is expertly executed by Allison Merritt in this novel. Once more the romance is all the more beautiful due to its themes of redemption and forgiveness.

The heroine, Ealsasaid, a Saxon princess, was taken from her home as a child, becoming a thrall to Ingevar, the Viking King responsible for the destruction of her homeland and the slaughter of her kin. She suffers his cruelty and abuse for years, finding solace in Ingevar’s son Hella and their one passionate coupling results in a son, Birgir (a secret that Ealasaid keeps to herself for fear of Ingevar’s wrath). Ingevar refuses his son’s request to free Ealasaid and sends him to raid lands abroad. When Ingevar dies, Ealasaid is stunned when Hella asks her to be his wife and become his queen, yet what of her secret and the effect of years of abuse at the hands of Ingevar? What follows is a truly romantic tale of how Ealasaid finds her true place with the man she was destined to be with, amongst the people who were her enemy. Their HEA is not assured however when the past comes back to haunt them and as their future together comes into question, I could not turn the pages quick enough to find out what happens!

The events in the book and the romance explore a number of different themes; forgiveness, revenge, retribution, honour and family and kinship ties. Given the historical time period, there are many references to acts of violence and cruelty, some against the heroine. This is balanced by the many tender and sensual sense between the hero and heroine, where they explore their growing connection to each other. Indeed, Hella is one Viking warrior I would be happy to call my own!

Ealasaid is a strong woman given all that she has experienced at the hands of Ingevar and she has a sharp wit which I enjoyed. Hella, a strong but fair minded Viking, has always disliked how his father mistreated Ealasaid, but he was not in a position to prevent it. I liked how he sets out to prove his love for her, gaining her trust through his thoughtfulness and kindness. The scenes with his son, whom he believes is Ingevar’s, are particularly touching. I also enjoyed the supporting characters, in particular Erik and Eoghann and Idunna – I very much hope that the author is going to pen their stories some time soon. I recommend this novel to readers of Historical Romance.

Reviewed by Tina Williams

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

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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.

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January 23, 2015 by Tina Williams

Concealment by Scarlet Wolfe: RELEASE DAY BLITZ (includes excerpt)

Publication Date: January 23, 2015

Book Description

Victoria Hart is supposed to be the enemy. She is an undercover detective who infiltrated my hotel and casino as an employee to take down my illegal enterprise. What she doesn’t know is I am fully aware of it. The operation I’m orchestrating is monumental compared to anything her mind could envision. It’s the burning desire I feel when she’s near that I didn’t see coming. An unwavering draw to touch her, and the need to break down her walls is testing my restraint; however, nothing can stand in the way of my ultimate goal. She could destroy everything my brothers and I have worked toward to avenge our father’s death. To keep the upper hand, it is vital to know your enemy. How deeply can I go, peeling back her intriguing layers while still concealing the truth? How much of Victoria can I claim before she’s too close … too close for me to let her go? This novel ends in a cliffhanger and is for a mature audience due to harsh language and descriptive sexual scenes.

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18+ Excerpt: Victoria’s POV:

I’m sprawled out on Adrian Cassano’s dining room table. It’s now questionable if I’m worthy of my career in law enforcement.

His fingers stroke my wet panties, causing me to gasp. My eyes open, and he’s piercing me with a lascivious gaze. Hooking his fingers over the top of the satiny fabric, he inches them along my legs and up over my knees until he’s lifting each foot to remove them.

Even though I’m headed straight toward a brick wall, I can’t bring myself to hit the brakes. Adrian will believe this was an act. I was truly engaged during our many in-depth conversations.

He’s intelligent, interesting and caring. I genuinely find humor in his witty remarks and miss his presence when he’s not near, yet he won’t believe any of it. He’ll think it was all pretend.

There is only a collision ahead, but I can’t stop it. I’m selfish, wanting the attention he gives me. Adrian’s touch is addictive, the anticipation alone igniting a high … an exhilarating rush to ride on.

“Tell me to touch you, Victoria. Aside from your soaked pussy giving it away, convince me you want this.” His voice is controlled yet commanding.

“I want you to touch me. Fuck, please, touch me now …” I’m breathless, my words uttered with desperation. Two fingers slip into me as his other hand slides up the outside of my leg. It snakes around my knee, and his lips tenderly kiss the inside of it.

Fingers move in time with his thumb that is rubbing circles of pleasure, provoking shameless moans to leave my dry mouth.

An animalistic sound rattles Adrian’s chest, his earnest stare still anchored to mine. His hand moves from my knee and massages my breast.

“Mmmm,” I hum. The pleasure heightens as he twists my nipple and tugs on it. All at once, an orgasm takes hold. “Adrian.”

“Come, Victoria. Come on my fingers. God, I’m dying to fuck you.”

About the Author

Scarlet Wolfe began writing in January of 2013 as a way to distract and heal from some of the grief she was dealing with after the death of her teenage son. She instantly fell in love with bringing characters to life. Releasing contemporary romance throughout 2013, she has branched out this year, releasing erotica and teen.When not writing, Scarlet enjoys spending time with her family and friends. She loves coffee, chocolate, wine, stories about possessive, hot alpha males, and other flavors of ice cream besides vanilla. She hopes her writing will encourage readers to feel more comfortable exploring their sexuality.

Contact Scarlet Wolfe

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October 24, 2014 by Tina Williams

DOUBLE COVER REVEAL ~ Tempting His Mistress and Once Upon a Rake, by Samantha Holt

Today I’m delighted to share not one but two cover reveals for Samantha Holt’s upcoming Victorian Romances, Tempting His Mistress and Once Upon A Rake! Scroll down to read the book blurb. Tina 🙂

Tempting His Mistress

Coming November 10th

Book Synopsis

What could possibly induce a woman to follow in the footsteps of her mother and further sully her reputation by becoming a mistress?

Lilly Claremont is well used to being at the centre of gossip. Being the illegitimate child of a rich businessman never failed to titillate the gossips and while she cared little about the wagging tongues she never intended to reinforce their opinions of her by ruining herself completely.

But it seems Lord Hawksley is determined to make the fascinating Lilly his mistress…

Evan has no doubt her bold tongue and beautiful body could keep him entertained for some time. Captivated by her, he must find a way to burn through his desire for her. He cannot marry a woman of such social standing so why not make her his mistress?

After the murder of her father, Lilly is searching for answers and they lead her directly to Lord Hawksley. But will they also lead her to his bed…?

Once Upon a Rake

Coming November 24^th

Book Synopsis

In Victorian England, little Ellie Browning swiftly discovered happy endings did not exist, and rakes were simply rakes. When the man she had adored for years kissed her and left her heartbroken, she resolved to put any dreams of fairy tales aside.

Seven years later, the widowed Eleanor, Countess of Hawthorne, has returned to England after years of travelling with a few ideas in mind. Firstly, she will continue to be the refined, elegant woman she has learned to be—or at least she shall try her best—and secondly, she will make a difference to the lives of those less fortunate than her. A fine opportunity presents itself when she discovers she is now a part owner of a cotton mill.

But the owner of the mill and the very same rake who had hurt her, has no desire to let a woman interfere with his business, let alone little Ellie Browning. After one of Lucian’s mills succumbed to fire, he’s fighting to save the other and continue his father’s legacy of fine business decisions and accruing wealth.

However, after a series of accidents, it becomes clear someone wishes the mill to close. But who, and why? Forced together to investigate the incidents, they must get past their shared history if they want to save the business.

If only the growing attraction between them did not prove such a distraction. With things heating up between them, it becomes clear that they are both at risk of getting burned…

July 4, 2014 by Tina Williams

30 Days of Summer Blog Tour – Spotlight on HER VENGEFUL SCOT ~ by Christina Phillips

Sizzling Historical Erotic Romance

Book blurb, teaser, excerpt and giveaway

For me Summer is by far the best time of the year. I live in the UK and while we are not guaranteed sun during June, July and August, when it does shine I am a happy bunny. I can sit out and eat in the garden, wear what I want and generally celebrate the good life! Whatever the season though I am never without a good book and the 30 DAYS OF SUMMER BLOG TOUR is a fantastic opportunity to find out more about some authors you already know, discover some new ones and try your hand at winning some super prizes!

One of my favourite authors, Christina Phillips, is visiting our blog today to share the cover and blurb for her brand spanking new release, HER VENGEFUL SCOT, an historical erotic romance. Having read the first book in this series, Her Savage Scot, I am chomping at the bit to find out about the romance between the hero and heroine of this novel, Scottish warrior Cameron and the Pictish lady Elise. This author’s romances sizzle with passion and raw emotion and always have a page turning plot! There is also a sexy excerpt and a some great prizes up for grabs in the giveaway including gift cards, paperbacks, swag and jewellery.

BOOK INFORMATION

Title: HER VENGEFUL SCOT
Series: Highland Warrior Chronicles (Book 2)
Author: Christina Phillips
Word/Page count: 83,000 words
Buy links: Amazon Ellora’s Cave

BLURB

To avenge his sister’s honor, he must destroy the woman he wants most in the world…

Ordered to remain in Pictland, Cameron MacNeil fights the lust that consumes him whenever he encounters the aloof princess, Elise. Not only is she a cursed Pict, she belongs to the man he has vowed vengeance upon.

Despite her reputation, Elise has no interest in men until she meets Cameron. Lacking the famed Scots charm, his blunt ways enchant her and he ignites a passion she long thought dead. When she is freed from her difficult marriage, Elise places her trust in the tough Scot warrior who has stolen her heart.

Bound by blood oaths, the only way Cam can protect Elise from political schemes is to make her his bride. When Elise discovers the truth, she fears everything she knew about her husband was a lie. All she can do is trust her goddess was right and Cameron is her one true love.

A Romantica® historical erotic romance from Ellora’s Cave

EXCERPT

Cameron MacNeil continued to glare at her, his eyes smoldering with black passion. She tried to ignore the prickles of awareness that burned her flesh beneath his gaze. But her chest constricted and it was hard to breathe, never mind engage in conversation with him.

That he desired her was obvious. That he hated the fact he wanted her was also painfully obvious. She could only hope he had no idea of the effect he had on her.

“Why are you out here alone, my lady?” he said, still speaking in his bone-meltingly accented Pictish although it was apparent to them both, she was more fluent in his language than he was in hers.
But how did he manage to inject so much venom into such a mundane question? If he loathed conversing with her people to this degree then why did he continue to torment her with his unwelcome presence?

As if to belie her thought, her treacherous gaze drank in the way his unbound hair whipped across his face in the Highland breeze. The way his white linen shirt stretched across his broad shoulders. How it molded against his powerful chest beneath the length of plaid slung over his shoulder.

His presence tormented her. But despite that, it was not unwelcome.

Fire flooded her veins, warming her cheeks. Goddess, she was blushing like a maid. No man made her blush. She was immune to their charms, no matter how much she enjoyed their company. And even if Cameron MacNeil awoke long dormant desires within her, it was nothing but a cruel contradiction—for she certainly did not enjoy his company.

Her heart hammered an erratic rhythm as she watched him step closer to her. The sky receded. The earth fell away. He filled the world and stole the air, raised the heat and made it hard to think, to reason.

He was so close she could feel his uneven breath across her face. Could see the deep brown of his eyes, the intriguing thickness of his lashes. For a fleeting instant his features softened and she saw beneath the simmering hatred he appeared to hold against her people. And in that moment the gaping chasm of want and loneliness that corroded his soul slammed through her breast.

She gasped. A shiver trickled along her spine at the eerie certainty that she had just glimpsed the true man beneath the warrior. For one brief moment, his façade had cracked. And even though now, once again, his countenance was as forbidding as it had always been, she knew the truth.

His air of fury and his curt words were not intended as a personal affront against her or her people.
It was an act of self-preservation.

AUTHOR BIO

Christina Phillips is an ex-pat Brit who now lives in sunny Western Australia with her high school sweetheart and their family. She enjoys writing paranormal, historical and contemporary romance but whether the hero is a fallen angel, tough warrior or sexy mortal, the romance will be sizzling and the heroine will bring her hero to his knees.

Christina is addicted to good coffee, expensive chocolate and bad boy heroes. She is also owned by three gorgeous cats who are convinced the universe revolves around their needs. They are not wrong.

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February 8, 2014 by Tina Williams

The Harlot (#1 in the Taskill Witches Series), by Saskia Walker

A Wickedly Sexy Romp for Lovers of Erotic Historical Romance!

Adult Read/18+ only

Mmmm… a bawdy wench, a masterful hero seeking to use the heroine’s sexual charms to seek revenge on his enemy, sprinkled with a fair bit of magic, a mouth watering combination! This is an very lusty read, set in Eighteenth century Scotland, with some extremely naughty characters. If you are familiar with the images often portrayed by the Georgian satirist Hogarth, you will have some idea of the licentious scenes that you can expect to encounter! Please note that in addition to the many scorching consensual lovemaking scenes between the main couple, there is also one f/f scene (involving the heroine) and a m/m scene (not involving the hero).

The Harlot is the first book in Saskia Walker’s Taskill Witches series, books 2 and 3 (which I have not yet had the pleasure of reading) being entitled The Libertine and The Jezebel. There is aso a novella in the series, Their Private Arrangement, which contains some characters we meet in The Harlot. The character in each of the main books is one of three siblings, who were cruelly separated after their mother was burnt at the stake for being a witch. All three have inherited their mother’s gift. The Harlot of this book’s title is Jessie, who has had a hard time since the death of her mother and is pursuing a career as a whore, in the hope of saving enough money to return to the Highlands.

Jessie is confident of her sexuality and in the opening scene, which I ABSOLUTELY ADORED, she is brawling in a tavern with one of her colleagues, accused of poaching a customer from her. It is there that she catches the admiring eye of the hero, Gregor Ramsay, a ship’s captain, who has taken leave from his business to take revenge upon a man who did him and his family great wrong. During the brawl Jessie is accused of witchcraft and is thrown into prison. Gregor, who has decided that Jessie would be the perfect instrument in his revenge, disguises himself as a priest and springs her out of gaol in return for her services. This is also an extremely HOT AND SEXY scene which I vastly enjoyed! Jessie is to use her considerable sexual charms to seduce and ruin his enemy.

There are many erotic and humorous scenes throughout. Jessie finds much pleasure in Gregor’s embrace, as he trains her for her role, and whilst she toys with him, Gregor tries unsuccessfully to distance himself from her charms. The sexual energy they create by their coupling greatly enhances Jessie’s powers, putting her at an even greater risk of being denounced as a witch.

Jessie soon becomes emotionally involved as does Gregor. Yet how will he react when Jessie’s powers become so powerful that he finds out that she is in fact a witch? What will happen if this is discovered by others? The plot hots up in all respects as the novel progressed and I could not put it down! What starts off as a very erotic lust fest soon turns to something very emotional and far deeper and whilst the erotic scenes do not cease in intensity, romance blooms and I found myself rooting for a HEA, as danger looms.

I loved the characters of both the hero and the heroine. Neither conformed to society and both have truly heart breaking pasts, yet they have the potential to heal each other and are well suited. Will Gregor’ s desire for revenge and the danger Jessie is in of discovery thwart any future they have together? The supporting cast of lusty characters are equally colourful and there is an unexpected plot twist. There is also a great balance between the erotic and paranormal scenes and the overall plot and character development.

I will most definitely be reading the other books in the series and other steamy offerings by this author. I recommend The Harlot to lovers of erotic historical romance who also enjoy tales of magic, set in a fascinating period of Scottish history.

Reviewed by Tina Williams

Check out the following links to find out more:

http://www.saskiawalker.co.uk/theharlot.html – contains a scorching excerpt from chapter one!

Amazon US

Amazon UK

August 22, 2013 by Tina Williams

Heart of the Diamond, by Carrie Brock

A Revenge so Sweet! An Entertaining Regency Romance

Heart of the Diamond is a sweet Regency Romance, with a yummy alpha hero and an unorthodox heroine who meet each other in bizarre circumstances engineered purely for revenge, but which lead to an endearing and intriguing fast paced romance.

In Carrie Brock’s romantic tale the heroine, Lady Nicole Langley, has managed to avoid matrimony – a state she has no desire to enter into. However, she finds that her father and stepmother have arranged a match with a man very much her senior. In a desperate attempt to seek help, she sets out in the middle of the night to meet her childhood sweetheart and neighbour, Teddy Bartholomew, who has sent her a note to say that he has returned home from America. However, instead she finds that she has been tricked and compromised by Blake Dylan, the new owner of Teddy’s home, Rosewood Manor. Nicole’s father, the Duke of Billington, is reluctantly compelled to accept Blake’s offer of marriage for his daughter to safeguard her honour.

Blake Dylan, who is now the Duke of Diamond, on his father’s death, has recently returned from America where he spent the last six years after being banished there. He is seeking revenge on those responsible for his banishment, namely the Duke of Billington and Teddy Bartholemew. He has already sabotaged the Duke’s business interests and he has won Teddy’s ancestral home from him in a card game. His final act of revenge will be to trick Billington’s daughter into marriage, which will have the added benefit of depriving Teddy of the woman he intends to make his own.

Nicole is a first unaware of the hatred that exists between her father and Teddy and Blake. Whilst she is furious at the situation, she begins to find herself becoming attracted to Blake, for despite his cool and calculating exterior, he can at times be quite charming. She suspects that he has been badly let down in the past and wants to be the woman that heals him. However, once Nicole discovers Blake’s role in her father’s financial ruin, Nicole begins to question Blake’s integrity and fears for her future with such a cold hearted vindictive man, who professes to shun love. When her childhood love Teddy returns from America more truths emerge and Nicole is forced to make choices relating to her future happiness. She fears that Blake will not be appeased until he manages to completely destroy her father, which she cannot let happen. Already enamoured with Blake Nicole strives to melt his icy heart.

Nicole is not your typical simpering Regency miss. Instead she is unorthodox, outspoken and headstrong. Having witnessed her own mother’s unhappiness before her death and her father’s remarriage to his former mistress, she is wary of entering a loveless marriage. She is devoted to her family, although her relationship with her stepmother is strained. Blake is taken aback be Nicole’s natural beauty and lack of artifice. He does not hold Nicole responsible for his misfortune and only intends to use her as an instrument for his revenge, not wishing to inflict any undue hardship on her. He does not believe in love but he begins to find Nikki’s behaviour more and more endearing as he gets to know her. She begins to thaw his icy heart and he is forced to examine his feelings when Teddy reappears and competes for her attention despite the couple’s coming nuptials.

Despite Blake’s Machiavellian actions in tricking Nikki into marriage for revenge, I did find him a sympathetic character. From their first scene together it was evident that there was a great deal of sexual tension between them. However, there are many twists and turns in the plot along the way which make for an entertaining tale. Some of the scenes, particularly those which portray Blake and Teddy vying for Nicole’s attention are highly amusing! We are introduced to a wider cast of characters as the plot progresses and these are well drawn and help the plot progress to its conclusion.

I found Heart of the Diamond to be a sweet Regency Romance with engaging characters and an intriguing plot. I recommend this novel to lovers of Regency Romance with an unorthodox, likeable heroine, a yummy alpha hero, who attempts to be a blackguard to exact his revenge, but really is quite honourable and a cast of entertaining characters.

Reviewed by Tina Williams

A copy of this book was made available to me by the publisher Blue Star Books for the purpose of providing a fair and honest review.

http://www.book-hub.com/bluestarbooks.html

Cover design by Bri Bruce