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Resisting the Firefighter: Bad Boys of Baltown, by Christina Phillips, Mel Teshco and Cathleen Ross

#ContemporaryRomance #FirefighterRomance

Blurb

Three hot firefighter brothers – and the women they save.
Any way they can…

Book 1 – Resisting Tate by Christina Phillips

Everyone loves a hero… don’t they?

To most people Tate Thompson is a catch. Good looking, funny and a firefighter who has saved plenty of lives. But to Ruby he spells danger.

Still grieving for the loss of her dad, who was also a firefighter and died in the line of duty, there’s no way she can go through that kind of pain again. Except her insides melt when she’s in Tate’s arms. Maybe she should take a chance on him?

Firefighting is in Tate’s blood and he’s never let anything get between him and his job. Until he meets Ruby.

She’s not just sexy as hell. She’s the first person who’s been able to quiet the roar of guilt he’s lived with for half his life. Maybe commitment isn’t such a dirty word, after all?

But when fires ravage the country, both Tate and Ruby must confront their darkest fears if they want a chance of making it together.

Book 2 – Resisting Lachlan by Mel Teshco

Can he save her from herself?

Lachlan might have a well-earned reputation with the ladies, but outside of the bedroom he has a strong moral code. His clients at the gym can’t thank him enough for their health transformations, and when he’s not at work he’s often pulling on his volunteer firefighter suit to help put out fires. Then he spies his new neighbor. Even before they become lovers he knows he wants more than a one night stand. He wants her permanently in his bed. If only he can convince her that losing one man in a fire doesn’t mean she’ll lose him, too.

After a house fire takes the life of her violent husband, Justine leaves the past behind and moves to the outskirts of Baltown. But when bush fires threaten the tinder dry area, and her sexy neighbor turned lover is one of the fire crew risking his life to save others, she realizes she can run again, but she can’t leave survivor guilt behind. But will she face her fears head-on or escape from the one man who might break her heart?

Book 3 – Resisting Adam by Cathleen Ross

Secrets shadow Emma Cain’s life, ones she can’t unlock by herself. When a bushfire threatens the valley she lives in, her ex-boyfriend, firefighter, Adam Thompson, demands she leave her home. Saving her precious cattle means everything to Emma, even if she has to agist them on Adam’s property. His fireproof place is the one safe place, but is it safe for her heart?

Adam Thompson is determined to get Emma back and right the wrongs of the past. Bit by bit he unlocks Emma’s heart, except he is holding on to a secret that could totally destroy her.

My Review – 5 stars

Steam, sass and emotions run high…

A super collection of three sexy and steamy novellas featuring Aussie firefighter siblings, Tate, Lachlan and Adam Thompson, and Ruby, Justine and Emma, the sassy women who turn their lives upside down. The collection contains themes of grief, secrets, ill-health and domestic abuse, all of which are portrayed in a realistic and sensitive way. I particularly loved how each of the couples worked through their respective issues and backstories to reach their HEA. I also enjoyed that each of the romances were very different whilst being linked in terms of the time frame.

Christina Philips’s Resisting Tate is an emotional read – Ruby has been through a lot and is still grieving, yet her attraction to Tate is off the charts. For sure, Tate is a real hottie, and I enjoyed how their relationship played out and how Ruby faced her demons. I found Ruby’s great-aunt to be a real character too!

I loved how in Mel Teshco’s Resisting Lachlan, Justine turned the tables on the ladies man Lachlan, and it is he who has to do the running. They are so good together and I was itching for Justine to put her trust in him, despite her misgivings.

Cathleen Ross’ Resisting Adam is a lovely second chance romance. Trust, secrets and forgiveness are key themes as Adam tries to keep his ex safe from the wildfires, whilst trying to persuade her to make a go of the attraction they still have for one another. I enjoyed how Emma grew in strength, both because of and despite her past. As with the other romances in the collection I was urging them on to confront and overcome their personal issues.

The collection is perfect for readers looking for contemporary romances which pack in some serious steam and emotion.

Reviewed by Tina Williams

Please note, a copy of the book was given to me by the authors for the purpose of a fair and honest review.

Purchase Links

Amazon UK

Amazon US

Connect with the Authors

Christina Phillips

Mel Teshco

Cathleen Ross

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*ARC REVIEW* ~ Taken by the Desert Sheikh (boxed set), Mel Teshco, Cathleen Ross and Christina Phillips

#erotic #romance #kidnap #desertsheikh #arrangedmarriage

Blurb

Three Sheikh brothers, three virgin brides…
The Grand Vizier has a plan to save Qutum…
To prevent a war…three royal brothers must wed

My Review ~ 5 stars

Politics and passion unite in this series of hot romantic reads

I loved this collection of contemporary reads featuring three sexy alpha sheikhs and their reluctant brides. The brothers may have had a western education but the blood and passion of their desert ancestors runs hot in their veins and heats up the pages! Each couple have their own unique journey and differences to settle before their respective HEA is assured as they navigate the complex politics and customs of the brothers’ homeland and the challenges of arranged marriages. I had a lot of fun reading the collection and recommend it to readers who enjoy tales of alpha men and strong females!

Stolen by the Sheikh by Cathleen Ross

London interior designer, Lilly Jones has the perfect job. When she lands an account to do up a mansion in Kensington and an old fort in Qutum, she can’t believe her luck. What she doesn’t know is that she is the piece of the puzzle that will prevent a war. When the commanding and sexy Sheikh Jamal El-Amin pays her bridal price, Lilly refuses to believe it means they are married, but it is legal in Qutum. Lilly must decide to escape or stay.

My Review

Designer Lily is thrilled when she secures a commission to redesign the luxury London home and Qutum fort. However, she feels betrayed when she realises that her client is non other than Sheikh Jamal El-Amin and it has all been an elaborate ruse to trap her into a marriage she does not want. Despite her attraction to him she does not take kindly to being deceived. She resolves to escape, not wanting to remain a prisoner in a country that does not recognise women’s freedoms. Why has she been chosen as his bride? When secrets from her family’s past come to light she may have to reconsider her stance. Will she stay or go? It’s a sexy and entertaining fast paced romance which I lapped up.

Lilly and Jamal are well suited. Lilly is a modern and spirited young woman and Jamal committed to modernising his country’s social agenda. Politics dictates that he seeks Lilly out to marry, putting him in  a situation that goes against his values. However, once he sees Lilly he knows she is perfect for him and he want her like no other woman before, yet he has a battle royal on his hands to convince her to stay!

The Sheikh’s Rebel by Mel Teshco

As the daughter of an indulgent sheikh, Amber Al-Fayed has had everything her heart desires, including a western education. But her perfect life is shattered when insurgents try to overthrow her country, killing Amber’s mother in a mortar attack and forcing Amber and her father into battle. Now Amber will do anything she can to reclaim control…even if that means marrying Zafar El-Amin, a wealthy and formidable neighboring sheikh. Except Zafar isn’t quite as separated from the conflict as she believes.

This is another romantic and passionate read. I loved Amber, the heroine, who is one strong and sassy lady committed to protecting her homeland, so much so that she has been living the life of  soldier to help combat the insurgents who killed her mother. Betrayed by one of her advisors she is stunned to find herself in the hands of Zafar El-Amin, sheikh of a neighbouring country. Rather than dishonour her as she fears, Zafar offers her marriage, which he says will help protect her homeland. Amber will do anything to secure peace for her country and as she finds herself wildly attracted to Zafar she believes the liaison will not prove to be much of a hardship.

However, when evidence comes to light that Zafar is more involved with the insurgents than he led her to believe, she feels betrayed. What future can they have when trust has been compromised? Zafar who is used to being in control finds he has one very angry bride on his hands and their future looks bleak. Another read where I was rooting for the couple’s HEA.

The Sheikh’s Reluctant Princess by Christina Phillips

He claimed her body, but can he capture her heart?

The last thing Tariq El-Amin wants to do is marry, but duty is everything and his country requires an heir. A political marriage is all he expects–until he hunts down his unwilling bride and duty becomes pleasure. But he soon discovers Princess Sofia has no intention of being a meek and obedient wife, and Tariq must make a tough choice if he wants to win the heart of his reluctant princess.

Sparks certainly fly between Tariq-El-Amin and Princess Sofia. They get off to far from a stellar start. Sofia is an independent young woman and has her future mapped out and it certainly does not include a husband, especially one from a country where women’s rights fall far behind those in the West and where her sole purpose is to be little more than a brood mare for her aristocratic husband. I enjoyed the growing relationship between the couple, as they navigate their differences and there are some super hot passionate scenes!

Yet although the couple are most definitely compatible in the bedroom Tariq’s behaviour  in his homeland is far from Sofia’s liking and the couple have a lot of soul searching and compromising to do if their relationship is to last. Can Tariq change his ways or will he lose his new bride? Their romance is far from plain sailing and I definitely enjoyed their journey as Sofia chafes at the controls Tariq puts on her and Tariq seeks to both accommodate her and protect her from harm, whilst ensuring that his people love and respect her as much as he does.

Reviewed by Tina Williams

Please note that an ARC of this book was given to me for the purpose of a fair and honest review.

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Mel:        Facebook    Twitter

Christina: Facebook    Twitter

Cathleen: Facebook   Twitter 

Purchase Links

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Review Round Up: January ’16

Hello readers, this month we have fourteen great titles for you to check out; some from our more regular authors, such as Beverly Ovalle, Christina Phillips, Nina Mason and Katherine McIntyre, as well as fresh authors to us, in Lolita London, and Krissy V who we had the pleasure to meet at last years Second City Signing event!

Still in the mood for love after your Valentines Day? ❤ With plenty of erotic, contemporary and historical romance reads, there is also a nice blend of sci-fi, fantasy and paranormal romance in our review recap this month. Plus, time to catch up on the last of our festive/wintry reads of the season which would be suitable to read as the cold weather lingers just for the next few weeks, or could urge you to purchase those festive reads well in advance for next Christmas! Author, Deborah Melanie features with a double festive review with her short stories Winter’s Spirit and The Good Girl; whether you’re into sweet romance, or hot, erotic you’ll have the choice of sweet or spicy 😉

Whatever your mood, we hope you find something to whet your appetite!

Happy reading,

Caroline & Tina 🙂 x

 

Stealing HopeStealing Hope: A Dragon’s Fated Heart by Beverly Ovalle, sci-fi fantasy, post apocalyptic paranormal erotica (reviewed by Tina)

Blurb: Amazon Bestseller in Erotica Paranormal AND Erotica Science Fiction

The apocalypse has come and gone.
Those who survived learned to adapt.
Dragons awaken to once again reign over the skies.

Upon eruption of a volcano, Ari awakens to a changed world, and a knowing that his dragon’s mate is near. He saves her twice—once as a dragon, and again as a man—and wins her confidence.

Hope cried out, moaning, “just change me with pleasure?”

Hope is restless and unfulfilled until she meets Ari, the man of her fantasies. The sensual tension between them heightens with every touch. When their passion explodes, Hope gets pulled into the dragon’s mating ritual…and into a world of erotic sensation she never dreamed existed but now cannot live without. The dragon binds his mate to him with a ritual that shows Hope her true nature in this humorous erotic romance.

East to WestEast to West by Lolita London, erotic historical western romance (reviewed by Tina)

Blurb: A letter in the mail, a hurried kiss goodbye, and a long train ride to her new life marks the end of Mary’s childhood.

When Mary Gray is informed she’s been selected to be a mail order bride, she’s reluctant to say the least – and not just because she has to leave her old life behind to marry a man she’s never met.

What she finds – or rather, what she doesn’t find – when she gets off the train surprises her. Her husband is nowhere to be found, and she’s informed that she’ll be living by herself until her fiance is finished overseeing a harvest.

To pass the time, she gets a job as a local schoolteacher… but a dangerous flirtation with her eldest student, Tom, threatens to end her marriage before it begins.

What she doesn’t know is Tom isn’t the man he seems to be… and she’ll find out just how little she knows about the man she’s marrying when they finally meet face to face.

This book contains explicit sex scenes and is for mature readers only.

StormyKnightDark and Stormy Knight (The Knights of Avalon #2) by Nina Mason, paranormal urban erotic romance (reviewed by Tina)

Blurb: She’ll risk everything for their love—even her life.

Aspiring screenwriter Gwyn Morland is ready for her big break. That means securing the film rights to elusive author Lady Ruthven’s acclaimed novel—which means traveling to Scotland. It’s a trip timid Gwyn isn’t prepared for, and her fears seem justified when her tour bus careens over a cliff outside of Castle Glenarvon. But the plot thickens when Gwyn is rescued from the brink of death by a handsome and mysterious stranger…

Leith MacQuill is not only the writer behind Lady Ruthven’s novel, but a shape-shifting faery knight bearing a tragic curse: the woman he gives his heart to will die. Saving Gwyn proves to be a dangerous choice when he finds himself falling for her the longer she stays in the castle. Not even his usual BDSM role-playing games are enough to thwart the intense desire they feel for each other. But to stay together, Gwyn and Leith must embark on a dangerous mission into Avalon, the realm of the faeries. Will their love be strong enough to conquer the curse? Or will Gwyn’s new life be stolen from her before it’s even begun?

MCTo Win Her Trust (Players #2) by Mackenzie Crowne, contemporary romance (reviewed by Tina)

Blurb: Can she trust this player with her heart?

Ever since experiencing a childhood trauma, reclusive artist CC Calhoun has suffered from panic attacks. But when a fateful kiss from handsome wide receiver, Kevin “Tuck” Tucker, is enough to stop one of those episodes cold, she wonders if guarding her heart has been the right choice. Will going on a test date with Tuck open her to trusting someone for the first time in years? Or will she wind up being just another notch in the football player’s bedpost?

Tuck has a reputation for charming women into bed, but after his kiss with CC, he’s left aching for more. When he proposes a second date, his attraction to the sexy blonde looks like the makings of true love—something he’s never quite believed in—until now. But when Tuck discovers CC’s childhood secrets, will the pro athlete be tough enough to stay by her side—or will he betray her hard-earned trust?

HFSHunting for Spring by Katherine McIntyre, paranormal urban fantasy romance (reviewed by Tina)

Blurb: Hunters are a lonely breed, and Conor’s no exception, until the day he meets Brenna. Even though she slinks in unannounced and kills the wight he was hunting down, the girl’s a mystery and he can’t get that blinding smile or those gorgeous curves off his mind. Since they’re both after the same caster who’s unleashing these monsters, he suggests teaming up, and despite her initial reluctance, the hungry way she scans him down promises something powerful.

However, her secrets have repercussions, and faster than Conor can lift his Glock, he’s drawn into the web of kidnappings and Unseelie mischief, all concealing the machinations of a darker foe—one that plans to bring Philly to ruin.

SatedSated by Lucy Felthouse, paranormal erotic romance (reviewed by Tina)

Blurb: A human, a vampire and a werewolf walked into a bar. Sexy is what happens next.

Since getting together with her vampire boyfriend, Ace, Aneesa is enjoying a sex life she could never have with a human. Ace has skill, strength, stamina…and is massively adventurous. Aneesa is checking things off her sexual bucket list at a rate of knots. However, she hasn’t even come close to experiencing the ultimate item on her list. So when Ace beats her to it, proposing a threesome with his werewolf friend, Barton, Aneesa’s definitely up for it.

Barton is attractive, smart and sexy—almost too good to be true, in fact. Aneesa decides not to jump straight into things, but makes sure it’s what she truly wants. However, it turns out Barton’s not so easily dissuaded.

Will Aneesa get the ultimate erotic experience she’s desired for so long? Will she be truly sated, or is the plan doomed to failure?

CupcakeEbookCover04-Final-200x300A Cupcake Christmas (Touchstone #5) (short story) by Beth Barany, festive holiday romance adventure(reviewed by Tina)

Blurb: What if you risked losing your baking legacy by cooking up a love truly special? Florian MacMillian needs a final job to complete his baking resume—preferably a job where he’s unlikely to blow things up with his unruly magic—before returning to the North Pole and taking his rightful place as Master Baker to all the elves. Kate Delore desperately needs help in her fast-growing cupcake business. Florian is a perfect fit, so she brings him on as baker. For a short time, Florian is happily up to his elbows in batter, and Kate’s business is booming. But when things heat up between them, Florian wonders if he should risk his legacy to cook up something truly special.

properlyornotatall_800Properly or Not At All (short story) by Lucy Felthouse, erotic romance (reviewed by Tina)

Blurb: How will a husband and wife cope when they’re told one of their favourite kinky pastimes is temporarily off the menu?

Tristan and Jayme are not only devoted husband and wife, they are also Dominant and submissive, with a particular penchant for spanking. They’ve been playing delicious kinky games for the fifteen years they’ve been together and couldn’t be happier. However, when Tristan develops a health issue that means he can’t redden his wife’s backside for a while, it puts both of them under a lot of strain. It’s a big part of their sex life and one they’ll miss badly.

They try to find a way around their unfortunate predicament, but it’s not easy. In the end, Tristan declares that he will either spank Jayme’s bottom properly, or not at all.

The prospect of no spanking at all dismays Jayme, but she has no other choice. Or does she? Continuing to put her mind toward the issue, she indulges in some solo experimentation, with mixed results.

But how will Tristan feel when he finds out his wife has gone behind his back?

Reader Advisory: This book contains anal sex and a scene of female ejaculation. 

Publisher’s Note: This book was previously released as part of the Over the Knee anthology by Totally Bound Publishing. 

MonsterDefaced: A Dark Romance Novel (The Monster Trilogy #1) by Marissa Farrar, dark romance suspense (reviewed by Tina)

Blurb: Monster
Hidden away from society by his criminal father, there lives a man who has never entered the outside world. Now, having taken over his father’s business, he has all the money and power he could dream of, yet still he refuses to let himself be viewed by the rest of society.

Lily
Traumatised by an event in her past, Lily Drayton has a phobia of being touched. Though she helps people externally with her skills as a laser therapist, she refuses to let anyone in, emotionally or physically. When Lily is kidnapped on the way home from work one evening, she discovers she’s not the only person who keeps themselves cut off from the rest of the world.

Defaced
A man owns her now—a man both dangerous and enigmatic. Drawn by his dual beauty and hidden pain, he awakens something inside her, something she believed was long dead. Brought to a room without windows, she’s given an impossible task: to make her owner acceptable to the outside world.

Can altering his face change who he is as a man, or is he truly a monster, both inside and out?

A Taste of ChristmasA Taste of Christmas [Dublin Style] by Krissy V, festive holiday contemporary romance, chick-lit (reviewed by Caroline)

Blurb: My name is Nollaig, it’s the Irish word for Christmas. I hate my name. My parents loved Christmas and that’s why they gave me such a festive name, together with the fact that I was born on Christmas Day.

However, my parents are no longer with us after dying in a car accident on Christmas Eve, five years ago.

Now I hate Christmas all together.

I always hated the fact that everyone got presents on my birthday. Now my parents are gone and ever since then I just don’t feel like celebrating Christmas. Everything about this holiday gives me sad memories.

I need a miracle to happen over the Christmas holiday to make me change my mind about Christmas.

Who knew that a quick shopping trip would provide me with the miracle that I so desperately needed?

Winter's SpiritWinter’s Spirit (short story) by Deborah Melanie, contemporary festive holiday romance, paranormal, fantasy, chick-lit (reviewed by Caroline)

Blurb: Winter McAndrew is on the brink of divorcing her philandering husband, Philip, when he dies in a car crash. One year later and with unfinished business; Philip is still earth bound and interfering in his wife’s love life. Trying to make amends isn’t always easy when you’re dead. Not only has Winter fallen for her old crush, Jack Tobin, but he also happens to be Philip’s cousin. With more complications than a woman needs at Christmas, Winter tries to find peace at her holiday home in The Lake District. However, when she finds herself snowed in with Jack; ghosts, old and new cause quite a stir. Will Winter get her man, or will ghostly Philip put an end to all her festive fantasies?

The Good GirlThe Good Girl (short story) by Deborah Melanie, contemporary festive holiday erotic fantasy (reviewed by Caroline)

Blurb: With the festive season almost upon her, plus size model, Sarah, wonders if being naughty not nice, will get her everything her heart and body desires. With two gorgeous neighbours and a unique employment opportunity, could this be the year when Sarah’s naughty Christmas wishes are finally granted?

The book contains adult themes and menage situations.

Taken by the BillionaireTaken by the Billionaire (A Collection of Stepbrother romance novellas) by Christina Phillips, Mel Teshco and Cathleen Ross, contemporary erotic romance (reviewed by Tina)

Novella Blurbs:

He’s forbidden…and he’s her every wicked fantasy

Ravished by the Billionaire by Christina Phillips

Dexter Jericho has it all – wealth, good looks and women falling at his feet. The last thing he wants is his little stepsister working in his London casino – until he meets her again. Because now Gabriella is all grown up and sexy as hell, and he can’t keep his hands off her. There’s only one problem – she might be a corporate spy, in which case he’ll keep her close and seduce her secrets from her.

Gabi’s had a crush on her stepbrother for as long as she can remember, and he’s finally noticed her. His scorching kisses and talented tongue make her forget this is a forbidden romance. Until she discovers the truth for his sudden interest and realizes his dirty little secret – is her.

Punished by the Billionaire by Mel Teshco

Isabella wants no part of the Jericho fortune, not if it means being a puppet to her stepfather, Harrison Jericho. Instead she turns to her one skill and passion and becomes a professional gambler. Except no money in the world is enough to make her forget her eldest stepbrother, Max Jericho, or the scorching kiss they shared at a party.

Max has been keeping tabs on his beautiful stepsister, Isabella. He’s been half in love with her for years, and no amount of hard labor and bedding other women makes him forget her. But his feelings won’t mean a thing if she’s guilty of dragging the Jericho name through the mud. He needs to get her alone to uncover the truth. And now that he’s CEO of his very own casino, Bella is drawn to him like a moth to flame.

Except losing a bet to Max and staying in his penthouse for a week just might be Isabella’s biggest gamble yet. Especially when she discovers how far he’s willing to go to clear the Jericho name.

Trapped by the Billionaire by Cathleen Ross

Tom Jericho has never got over the naked body slide his sixteen year old stepsister Christabelle Evernight performed on him when he was twenty-one. Born with a sense of honor, he wouldn’t take her virginity then but he’s certainly interested in having her now. After all, what’s a little dirty fun between step siblings and Christabelle has been a very bad girl.

There’s nothing more humiliating than being knocked back by the hottest, sexiest stepbrother Chrissy has ever seen, so she’s not going to Australia to work under him, except her stepfather leaves her no choice.

Tom Jericho knows her secret and he’s going to make her pay, but Chrissy has grown up now and she happens to enjoy Tom’s brand of punishment – and knows just how to pay him back.

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**ARC REVIEW** ~ Taken by the Billionaire, by Christina Phillips, Mel Teshco and Cathleen Ross

Contemporary Erotic Romance

(A collection of Stepbrother Romances)

Adult/18+ read

Taken by the Billionaire

A Scorching Stepbrother Collection ~ Five stars!

*****

In Taken by the Billionaire, a collection of novellas from Christina Phillips, Mel Teshco and Cathleen Ross, three sisters, Gabi and twins Izzy and Chrissy are in turn taken by their very own Jericho brother Dexter, Max and Tom. Each couple has a very different story to tell, but all three reads contain a mouth-watering combination of scorching sexual tension, toe curling passion and sassy and sexy dialogue!

It is my first foray into the world of stepbrother romances and it is one hot read! The concept has a deliciously deviant taste of the forbidden about it, adding to the sensuality and eroticism of each romance. Each book works well as a standalone but as they are interlinked I think that they are best read in order.

Here’s the book blurb and you can scroll down to read my review of each romance in turn. Tina 🙂

Book Blurb

He’s forbidden…and he’s her every wicked fantasy

Ravished by the Billionaire by Christina Phillips

Dexter Jericho has it all – wealth, good looks and women falling at his feet. The last thing he wants is his little stepsister working in his London casino – until he meets her again. Because now Gabriella is all grown up and sexy as hell, and he can’t keep his hands off her. There’s only one problem – she might be a corporate spy, in which case he’ll keep her close and seduce her secrets from her.

Gabi’s had a crush on her stepbrother for as long as she can remember, and he’s finally noticed her. His scorching kisses and talented tongue make her forget this is a forbidden romance. Until she discovers the truth for his sudden interest and realizes his dirty little secret – is her.

My Review

What can I say? Dexter Jericho, who runs the London based casino for the family business, is one sexy alpha male billionaire used to getting what he wants in and out of the bedroom. However, as soon as spies Gabi in his office he decides that all he wants is his little stepsister who has grown into a highly desirable woman! For the inexperienced Gabi, Dexter’s attention is like a dream come true and they embark on an illicit affair.

Dexter also has another motive in keeping Gabi close, as he fears that a corporate spy is in the midst. However, he soon finds that the closer he gets to the real Gabi the longer he wants her with him. Yet when Gabi’s trust is shattered by his actions what future can there possibly be for them? Also how would their family, not to mention the press react, to a stepbrother/stepsister combo?

I really enjoyed Dex’s and Gabi’s romance. Neither character is what the other expects and they have plenty of surprises in store for them, which Christina Phillips reveals in her own inimitable style! The author also does an excellent job of combining sexual tension with smoking hot erotic love-making scenes which makes for a fabulous romantic read.

Punished by the Billionaire by Mel Teshco

Isabella wants no part of the Jericho fortune, not if it means being a puppet to her stepfather, Harrison Jericho. Instead she turns to her one skill and passion and becomes a professional gambler. Except no money in the world is enough to make her forget her eldest stepbrother, Max Jericho, or the scorching kiss they shared at a party.

Max has been keeping tabs on his beautiful stepsister, Isabella. He’s been half in love with her for years, and no amount of hard labor and bedding other women makes him forget her. But his feelings won’t mean a thing if she’s guilty of dragging the Jericho name through the mud. He needs to get her alone to uncover the truth. And now that he’s CEO of his very own casino, Bella is drawn to him like a moth to flame.

Except losing a bet to Max and staying in his penthouse for a week just might be Isabella’s biggest gamble yet. Especially when she discovers how far he’s willing to go to clear the Jericho name.

My Review

This novella is set in Vegas, where the headstrong Izzy is pursuing her career as a professional gambler. Having lost a substantial bet to Max, she finds that her punishment is to spend one week ensconced in his penthouse, where he is hell bent on possessing her and punishing her for her seemingly bad behaviour. The type of punishment every girl dreams of and believe me the scenes are hot!

The chemistry between Max and Izzy is undeniable: the sex is scorching and sparks fly. Izzy needs a strong man to keep her in check and Max is certainly up to the job. As Max and his brothers work together across three continents to get to the bottom of the issue of the corporate spy, Izzy and Max’s relationship is threatened. I was itching to find out if Max could trust this woman whom he is drawn to like no other and whether Izzy would lose all, including her heart, in the process.

Trapped by the Billionaire by Cathleen Ross

Tom Jericho has never got over the naked body slide his sixteen year old stepsister Christabelle Evernight performed on him when he was twenty-one. Born with a sense of honor, he wouldn’t take her virginity then but he’s certainly interested in having her now. After all, what’s a little dirty fun between step siblings and Christabelle has been a very bad girl.

There’s nothing more humiliating than being knocked back by the hottest, sexiest stepbrother Chrissy has ever seen, so she’s not going to Australia to work under him, except her stepfather leaves her no choice.

Tom Jericho knows her secret and he’s going to make her pay, but Chrissy has grown up now and she happens to enjoy Tom’s brand of punishment – and knows just how to pay him back.

My Review

In the third and final novella the action turns to the Jericho casino in Sydney, where Chrissy has been sent by her stepfather to work with stepbrother Tom, the very man who rejected her when she was  younger. The emotional turmoil she is under has led this normally meek and mild young woman to act very much out of character and Tom is out for revenge, whilst extracting maximum enjoyment from the situation – enjoyment that Chrissy cannot resist. Cue some sizzling scenes!

When Tom, who has a strong sense of honour learns of his stepsister’s real motivation for her actions what will he do? Will he reject her yet again or will the couple find their HEA, however controversial such a pairing will be? It takes a some unexpected developments at the casino before Tom’s hand is forced.

The collection of red hot, feel good erotic romances is guaranteed to please and I loved how the story panned out to ensure a fitting HEA for all the siblings involved!

Reviewed by Tina Williams

Please note, a copy of his book was given to me by the authors for the purpose of a fair and honest review.

Purchase Links

Amazon UK  Amazon US

Connect with the Authors

Mel:        Facebook    Twitter

Christina: Facebook    Twitter

Cathleen: Facebook   Twitter 

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Review Round-Up Jan ’15

Hi readers, we are well into January now but we do hope that you enjoyed the holiday season and that you have a Happy New Year. I am amazed that over the last month Tina and myself have managed to review fifteen books and hope that you enjoy reading all about them.

Romance is certainly a strong theme for the following books but we still cover the historical, contemporary, chick-lit, erotica, paranormal and sci-fi (and festive) genres, as well as having a paranormal thriller/horror and a crime drama in the mix too!

As always, you can click on the book title for the full review and more!

Caroline & Tina ❤

temptinghismistress800Tempting his Mistress by Samantha Holt, historical romance (reviewed by Tina)

Blurb: What could possibly induce at 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…?

All I Want for ChristmasAll I Want for Christmas by Amy Silver, contemporary holiday romance, chick-lit (reviewed by Caroline)

Blurb: It’s Bea’s first Christmas with her baby son, and this year she’s determined to do everything right. But there is still so much to do: the Christmas menu needs refining; her café, The Honey Pot, needs decorating; and she’s invited the whole neighbourhood to a party on Christmas Day. She really doesn’t have time to get involved in two new people’s lives, let alone fall in love…

When Olivia gets knocked over in the street, however, Bea can’t help bringing her into The Honey Pot and getting to know her. Olivia’s life is even more hectic than her own, and with her fiancé’s entire family over from Ireland for Christmas, she shouldn’t be lingering in the cosy warmth of Bea’s café. Chloe, on the other hand, has nowhere else to go. Her affair with a married man has alienated her friends, and left her lonelier than ever.

But Christmas is a magical time, and in the fragrant atmosphere of The Honey Pot, anything can happen: new friends can be made, hearts can heal, and romance can finally blossom…

A True Alpha ChristmasA True Alpha Christmas (novella of the True Alpha series) by Alisa Woods, new adult, paranormal romance (reviewed by Caroline)

STAND-ALONE NOVELLA – best enjoyed after reading the True Alpha Box Set (Vol 1-6)

Blurb: Shifters live in the shadows of Seattle, just under the skin of the alpha male, dot-com entrepreneurs who are building a new Silicon Valley in the Emerald City. Mia is your everyday college girl, trying to earn her business degree—and a shifter who’s long hidden her identity from everyone, including her mother, who believes shifter is synonymous with criminal. Six months ago, sexy and powerful alpha-male Lucas rescued her in an alley and claimed her for his mate. Now Mia’s heart belongs to Lucas, and everyone in the world of shifters understands the magic of their mating has bonded them for life. But in the human world, there’s no wedding ring on her finger to show for it. With Christmas looming, Mia’s mother wants to finally meet Mia’s mysterious and high-powered live-in lover. With her human and shifter lives about to irrevocably collide, Mia fears there will be nothing but broken hearts in the end.

A True Alpha Christmas is 80 pages or 20,000 words. This novella can be read as a standalone, but readers will enjoy it more if they read the True Alpha serial (Vol 1-6) first.

23249978Long Gone Girl (short story) by Amy Rose Bennett, erotic romance (reviewed by Tina)

Blurb: After returning home from the Korean War a widow, former MASH surgical nurse, Ginny Williams, heads to the Jersey Shore for a weekend of much needed R&R. But her plans to do nothing more than relax on the beach go seriously awry when the boy who broke her heart on Prom night nine years ago—the now hotter-than-hot ‘fly-boy’ Jett Kelly—shows up on her patch of sand. To make matters worse, Captain Kelly seems to be on a mission to win her trust, and maybe even her heart again. But the last thing Ginny wants is a man—especially one like Jett—in her life. She’s a career nurse now, and that’s that. If only Jett wasn’t so damned charming and attractive…

US air force pilot, Captain Jefferson ‘Jett’ Kelly Junior is blown away to have stumbled across the beautiful yet shy and bookish girl he used to have a huge crush on in high school—especially now that Ginny is all grown up and sexy as hell. Problem is, she’s also not backward in coming forward when letting him know she hasn’t forgiven him for the Prom-kiss-gone-wrong incident. Even though Jett knows he’ll have his work cut out for him to get a second chance with her, he’s definitely going to give it his best shot…

Despite Ginny’s determination to keep her head—she’s certainly not the naïve girl she used to be—when Jett starts to unashamedly woo her, she soon realizes that maybe her heart didn’t get the memo…

FallingDragons-200x300Falling Dragons (Moon Shadow series #3) by Angela Castle, erotic paranormal romance (reviewed by Tina)

Blurb: Drugged and running for her life, Dragon Princess, Ophelia, jumps off a rooftop to escape her captors.

Immortal Demon Hunter Simon, is shocked when he catches a falling, redheaded woman. His surprise is short-lived when he faces not only a vicious demon, but those hunting his newly acquired redhead.

In desperate need of protection, and knowing he is her mate, Opie spell-tethers the sexy Demon Hunter to her, not realizing he’s a seventeen-hundred-year-old dragon slayer.

The sexual chemistry explodes between them as they fight each other, in and out of the bedroom. Together, they must battle an evil enemy set on unleashing a soul-sucking demon army into the world, threatening to destroy everything they hold close to their hearts.

Bethany's Heart (Unearthly World #3)Bethany’s Heart (Unearthly World #3) by C. L. Scholey, sci-fi erotic romance (reviewed by Caroline)

Blurb: Amidst the snow and icy wasteland, Earth has become a watery grave to many. Zargonnii warriors Finn and Blu search for any remaining human females. Luck abounds and six females are found struggling to survive. The moment his blazing red eyes settle onto Bethany Finn feels in his heart she is the one he wants to end his loneliness. When Bethany encounters two massive aliens, eyes alight, long white hair wildly flying, she knows the pair are either death or salvation. Their encounter leads Bethany on the wildest adventure of her life. After the Zargonnii ship is annihilated by the enemy a shuttle leads Finn and Bethany straight into the path of peril more times than the couple care to count.

Help, I've Been Abducted by an Alien!Help, I’ve Been Abducted by an Alien! (short story) by Juliet Cardin, sci-fi erotic romance (reviewed by Caroline)

Blurb: Jen joins an alien-abductee group in order to secretly write an article on the subject. Her plans take an unexpected turn when she encounters a UFO in her neighborhood park and gets abducted for real.

Lysander, her sexy captor, informs Jen he’s not taking her home. Earth, he confides, is soon to be impacted by an asteroid and then invaded by a hostile lizard race. Jen is determined to find a way to escape Lysander–who is hell-bent on having her for himself–and return to Earth, before it is too late to prevent its annihilation. 

drug_final_ResizedDrug (The Kassidy Bell trilogy #1) by Lynda O’Rourke, paranormal thriller, horror (reviewed by Caroline)

Blurb: Out of work and out of luck, 19 year-old Kassidy Bell finds herself in desperate need of money.

Coming across a mysterious advert in her local newspaper offering a reward, Kassidy believes she’s found the answer to her prayers.

But Kassidy soon realises that if something is too good to be true then it usually isn’t what it first appears to be. Finding herself in a desperate situation, Kassidy realises that she must run if she is to escape the new horrors she has discovered however great the reward might be.

21948425Mr X by Clarissa Wilde, dark, erotic romance (reviewed by Tina)

18+/Adult Read

Author Note: This is not your average romance story. Some people will kill for love.

Blurb: He’s come to kill me. I’m a user and abuser of my own body. In my darkest hour I sold my soul to the devil and now I must pay the price. With his gun to my head I have no choice but to listen and obey, but I refuse to go down easily. Nothing is stronger than the will to survive. My instincts kicked into full gear the second he stepped into my motel room.Except when I look at him I see my own heart staring back at me. A history tainted by blood.I don’t know his name, but I know he wants me. To save myself I’ll sacrifice my sanity. My body. My soul. Something tells me the x-shaped scar that marks his eye is the only escape I have. He is Mr. X: the man who comes to claim my life. Can I save myself before he demands my heart?

WARNING: This book contains very disturbing situations, dubious consent, breath deprivation, strong language, drugs and alcohol, and graphic violence.

SHEIKH Boxed WebTaken by the Sheikh (Boxed Set) by Christina Phillips, Mel Teshco & Cathleen Ross, contemporary erotic romance (reviewed by Tina)

Book 1: Hostage to the Sheikh ~ Mel Teshco

Sheikh Shahzad Salah al Din doesn’t have time for hearts and flowers, not when his parents’ bodies are barely even cold in their graves and his country, Omana, is on the brink of revolt. He has to secure peace by honoring a long ago arrangement to make English rose, Lexi Galvin, his wife. The trouble is strong-willed Lexi isn’t aware of her royal Arab lineage let alone her destiny. There is only one way Shahzad can guarantee she will be his queen … and he isn’t above using force to get it.

Book 2: The Sheikh’s Mistaken Bride ~ Christina Phillips

In order to secure a powerful alliance for his country, Khalid has no choice but to marry a neighboring princess. It’s not what he wants, but duty must come before pleasure. Yet when he meets the beautiful Sanura he changes his mind… only to discover the virgin in his bed is not his destined bride.

Book 3: Sold to the Sheikh ~ Cathleen Ross

He’d paid a fortune for his bride and he was determined to collect, whether she liked it or not. Rafi Salah al Din doesn’t trust easily. In charge of security for his country Omana, he devotes his life to duty. With his parents murdered it is his duty to stabilize his country by finding his parents’ assassin, marry and produce a son to ensure the Salah al Din line lives on. So why does the wife he bought disagree?

HGF_CoverHeart Grow Fonder by Cristy Rey, adult contemporary romance (reviewed by Tina)

Wrong place. Wrong time. Right people.

Jessie Bravo knows what’s wrong with her life; she just doesn’t know what to do about it. Eleven years ago, she saved Tyler Cantrell from getting his ass kicked by gay-bashing high school jocks. Since, they’ve been the closest of friends. Years later, Jessie circled the drain of chronic depression, spiralling out of control, and it was Tyler’s turn to save her. Who knew her best friend would become a Hollywood A-lister? Though Jessie credits Tyler for keeping her together, living in the shadow of her best friend’s celebrity isn’t all it’s cut out to be. It’s up to Jessie to figure out what she has to do to be happy: get better or get lost.

Stardom is on the horizon for British television actor Boyd Kerrington. He’s starring opposite Tyler Cantrell in an American feature film sure to blow his career out the water. For all the years he’s focused on his career, however, he’s settled in his personal life. That is, until he meets Tyler’s best friend, Jessie. Jessie is refreshingly cool, passionate, and compelling…but she’s also complicated. Worse yet, she’s not interested in remaining in the celebrity stratosphere, even for her lifelong friend.

22855324-2Triple D Dude Ranch by Beverly Ovalle, erotic western contemporary romance (reviewed by Tina)

Blurb: Blaire is a freelance photographer on assignment. She is heading home to Texas, armed with her camera to do a photo feature for the Tribune. Taking photos of the dude ranch, she gets an eyeful of an uninhibited cowboy through her lens. The summer heat of Texas has nothing on the heat he generates in her.

Dan was expecting a photographer but not the sexy urban cowgirl that arrived. He knew it was hot out, he just hadn’t expected the hot and sexy woman to make him burn the minute he caught sight of her. One look and he had to quench this fire inside.

One touch between Dan and Blaire sparks a wildfire that burns hotter than the Texas summer and is just as hard to put out.

Playing the Field (Duty & Desire, Book 4)Playing the Field (Duty & Desire #4) by C.J. Pinard, contemporary military romance, chick-lit (reviewed by Caroline)

Blurb: An overachiever in uniform…

Jace Lawless is an overachiever, a go-getter, and determined to accomplish everything he sets his mind to. After serving his country in the U.S. Marine Corps, and receiving his college degree, he’s picked up by a popular minor league baseball team, all while continuing his service in the USMC reserves.

When Jace meets a beautiful, breathtaking single mother named Miranda Cates, it takes him by surprise. Her shady past and beautiful little girl are the conundrum that both confuses and fascinates Jace. He can’t tear his thoughts away from Miranda, and eventually he believes he can win her over with his dimpled smirk and witty charms.

Once Miranda becomes his, the part of him she hated the most – the part he had kept secret from her for so long – rears its ugly head. Will Miranda lean on her friend Cara for support while staying by his side once he tells her that duty is calling… or will she decide she can’t handle it and take her daughter and leave?

Playing the Field is the fourth and final installment of the Duty & Desire series. Contains adult situations and minor scenes of war. 

Chris Collett 7 Dead of NightDead of Night (A Tom Mariner Mystery #7) by Chris Collett, police procedural, crime drama, thriller (reviewed by Caroline)

Blurb: When a young woman disappears on her way home from work, Detective Inspector Tom Mariner tackles his most challenging investigation yet!

18-year-old Grace Clifton vanishes on her way home from work in the centre of Birmingham late at night, the case is remarkable in that not a single witness comes forward. The more he has to deal with Grace s wealthy and overbearing father, Council Leader Bob Clifton, the more Tom Mariner is inclined to believe that Grace left of her own accord.

Then the package arrives. It contains Grace s clothes, neatly pressed and laundered. A second woman disappears. And a disturbing pattern begins to emerge.

Still adapting to a new investigation team and struggling to pull its members together, Detective Inspector Mariner is about to tackle one of his strangest, most challenging cases to date.

OnceuponarakeOnce Upon a Rake by Samantha Holt, historical romance (reviewed by Tina)

In Victorian England, Little Ellie Browning swiftly discovered happily ever afters did not exist and rakes were simply rakes. When the man she had adored for years kissed her and left her heartbroken and she was forced to marry an elderly earl to save her reputation, she resolved to put any dreams of fairy tales aside.

Seven years later, the now widowed Eleanor, Countess of Hawthorne, has returned to England after years of travelling and is now part-owner of a cotton mill left to her by her late husband.

But the owner of the mill, and the very same handsome rake who hurt her years earlier, has no desire to let a woman interfere with his business, let alone little Ellie Browning—no matter how fascinating he finds her since her transformation from coltish scarecrow to almost graceful countess.

Lucian is still recovering from the after-effects of one of his mills succumbing to fire, and now he’s fighting to save the other in a tough economic climate. He doesn’t need this new distraction, especially when, after a series of accidents, it becomes clear someone wishes the mill to close and he has to find the culprit—fast.

With things heating up between Ellie and Lucian, it’s apparent that not only is the mill in peril—they are both at risk of getting burned…

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REVIEW – *Taken by the Sheikh* (Boxed Set), by Christina Phillips, Mel Teshco and Cathleen Ross

Erotic Contemporary Romances

Sheer Indulgence! *****

Three Desert Sheikhs, three captive brides……

 

SHEIKH Boxed WebBound by duty to honor their father’s dying wish, three royal brothers must marry their destined brides… by whatever means necessary…

One of my Top Reads for 2014

This boxed set was just what I needed to combat the cold winter nights, containing not one but THREE desert hotties to fulfill my fantasies.… I really liked the overarching plot which linked the three stories and characters together. Also kudos to the authors for exploring the cultural differences between the heroes and their three chosen brides and the self-sacrifices those in their position are expected to make for their country. Of course the scorching love making scenes, of which there are many (frantically fanning self) were also a definite plus! Scroll down for the book blurbs and for my reviews. Tina 🙂

Book Blurb

Book 1: Hostage to the Sheikh ~ Mel Teshco

Sheikh Shahzad Salah al Din doesn’t have time for hearts and flowers, not when his parents’ bodies are barely even cold in their graves and his country, Omana, is on the brink of revolt. He has to secure peace by honoring a long ago arrangement to make English rose, Lexi Galvin, his wife. The trouble is strong-willed Lexi isn’t aware of her royal Arab lineage let alone her destiny. There is only one way Shahzad can guarantee she will be his queen … and he isn’t above using force to get it.

Book 2: The Sheikh’s Mistaken Bride ~ Christina Phillips

In order to secure a powerful alliance for his country, Khalid has no choice but to marry a neighboring princess. It’s not what he wants, but duty must come before pleasure. Yet when he meets the beautiful Sanura he changes his mind… only to discover the virgin in his bed is not his destined bride.

Book 3: Sold to the Sheikh ~ Cathleen Ross

He’d paid a fortune for his bride and he was determined to collect, whether she liked it or not. Rafi Salah al Din doesn’t trust easily. In charge of security for his country Omana, he devotes his life to duty. With his parents murdered it is his duty to stabilize his country by finding his parents’ assassin, marry and produce a son to ensure the Salah al Din line lives on. So why does the wife he bought disagree?

My Reviews

Sheer Indulgence!

Erotic Contemporary Romances

Book 1: Hostage to the Sheikh ~ Mel Teshco  *****

Mel Teshco’s Hostage to the Sheikh kicks off this sheikh love fest: To secure peace for his beloved homeland and the continuation of his dynasty Shahzad prepares to do his duty and marry the woman  selected for him. I loved how bowled over he is by the very sight of Lexi, his unsuspecting bride, who is so refreshingly different to the women he is used to. Observing Lexi from afar he realises that she may not come quietly, and I loved the masterful way he kidnaps her in an emotionally charged and oh so sexy scene! Please note that I am particularly fond of the captor/captive romantic fantasy, where the kidnapper turns out to be ‘the one!’

What follows is a delightfully written tale of seduction amongst the desert sands, where Shahzad tries to convince Lexi to accept her fate. I loved the fact that although she is equally attracted to Shahzad and goes along enthusiastically with their lovemaking, she is no pushover. Indeed, unhappy about being kidnapped and being totally unaware of her Arab lineage, let alone any marriage contract, Lexi has an awful lot to contemplate. This does not prevent the couple from enjoying some sizzling smexing! With a plot that also includes possible threats from rebels and deceit and you have an exciting, emotional and nail biting read.

Book 2: The Sheikh’s Mistaken Bride ~ Christina Phillips *****

Christina Phillips excels at writing erotic romances where the reader experiences each and every emotion felt by the hero and heroines and this was no exception. There are so many emotional ups and downs in this story: one minute I was wiping a tear from my eyes and the next I was immersed in yet another scorching scene between the hero and heroine.

Khalid is my favourite hero from this series, as he is passionate, caring and impetuous. For me fact that he is half French just added to the attraction! At one point however, I did want to smack him, for although he is a real hottie and it is clear he loves Sanura, he does not excel in how he deals with the situation once he realises that he has mistaken Sanura for his bride! Fortunately Sanura is a strong heroine and I really liked how she stood her ground as the tale progressed. I felt Sanura’s heartache but also Khalid’s turmoil too, torn between burgeoning love and duty. Just what is a sheikh to do? I won’t give anything away but I was pleased with how the dilemma resolved itself and loved the dynamics of Khalid and Sanura’s relationship!

Book 3: Sold to the Sheikh ~ Cathleen Ross *****

This read has one of the hottest opening scenes I have ever read, in which the hero and heroine first meet and I was immediately hooked! The way the very dominant Rafi apprehends and abducts May is supremely erotic and I also loved how she tries her best to resist him, despite her attraction. She is desperate to remain in the West for reasons that become clearer as the story progresses. However, the methods Rafi chooses to seduce all her uncertainties away are supremely divine!

Neither Rafi or May are all that they first appear to each other and I enjoyed finding out about them as they revealed themselves to each other not just physically but emotionally as the story progresses. It becomes evident that they have a lot more in common that they first thought. May in particular has a troubled past and I could empathise with her actions.

Rafi is the serious younger brother who blames himself for the death of his parents and who takes his role as head of security very seriously. Although there are certainly a lot of erotic scenes, there is also a lot of action in this story, as the overarching plot is brought to its conclusion and the main characters from all three books are brought together at the end.

Reviewed by Tina Williams

A copy of this boxed set was given to me for the purpose of a fair and honest review.

Connect with the Authors

Mel:        Facebook    Twitter

Christina: Facebook    Twitter

Cathleen: Facebook   Twitter 

Capture Taken by the Sheikh at the special low introductory price of  $0.99 for six weeks only!

ARe      Amazon      Amazon UK     Kobo      Nook      Page Foundry

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Tina’s Top Reads of 2014

Phew! 2014 was such an exciting year of reads for me – I have been totally spoiled with all of the fabulous books to choose from and I have found it extremely difficult to come up with a list of top reads. Here it is at long last! I’ve included the link to my review, where you can also learn more about the book and the author and find the purchase links. Tina ❤

rain-book-coverRain, by Nicole Hurley-Moore – Sensual Fantasy/Fairy Tale Romance

A magical read with all the elements of a fairy tale for adults. It has well defined and believable characters and a strong plot set in a world akin to that of European folk lore and fairy tales of old. In it Nuri is caught between Heaven and Hell as two men fight for her love and her soul.

http://areadersreviewblog.com/2014/01/25/rain-by-nicole-hurley-moore-synopsis-trailer-review-author-bio-and-giveaway/

Blood Mate, by Kitty Thomas – Paranormal Literary Erotica, 18+/adult read81nn3uns8ol-_sl1500_

A Dark and Intense Fairy Tale – another mind blowing and deeply psychological read from this author. It contains a powerful and ancient vampire, August, condemned to drink the blood of his terrified human victims night after night. The only way that his torment can be assuaged is to find his one and only blood mate. Yet when he finds her, she is already truly, madly and deeply in love with another. The ensuing drama is bloody and compelling and is far far removed from a vampire romance!

http://areadersreviewblog.com/2014/02/18/blood-mate-by-kitty-thomas/

20504754 (2)Transcendence, by Shay Savage – Time Travel Romance, adult read

Totally, Utterly and Completely Spellbinding! When Elizabeth finds herself transported from the modern world to prehistoric times how will she survive? The story is told from the POV of Ehd, the man who claims her. The tale of how they overcome the obstacles of prehistoric times and develop their relationship when one of them simply doesn’t have the ability to form and comprehend language is unique.

http://areadersreviewblog.com/2014/03/20/transcendence-by-shay-savage/

Crimson Sins, Madeline Pryce – Erotic Paranormal Romance, 18+/adult read21947832 (2)

Deliciously Dark and Decadent. The book introduces us to a world of magic, necromancers, zombies, ghosts, and more and contains a heady and combustible mix of smokin’ hot romance between the hero Bastian and heroine Morgan. Contains scenes of horror.

http://areadersreviewblog.com/2014/07/16/review-of-crimson-sins-by-madeline-pryce/

17562987-2 (2)Wind Haven, by Charlotte Boyett-Compo – Dark Erotic Fantasy/Futuristic Romance, 18+/adult read

A Light in the Darkness – a real treat for lovers of dark erotic fantasy. The power of love and healing does battle with unimaginable acts of depravity and evil. The novel unapologetically grapples with subject matter which includes scenes of sexual torture, enslavement of the male lead, imprisonment and physical, mental and psychological abuse.

http://areadersreviewblog.com/2014/11/05/review-of-windhaven-by-charlotte-boyett-compo/

Too Much to Lose, by Samantha Holt – Sensual and Suspenseful Contemporary RomanceSexy young couple playing in love games in a bedroom.

An edgy and oftentimes dark read, featuring Hunter, a Private Investigator who is in desperate need of money and Jess, an ex porn star, who is equally desperate to forget her past. The chemistry between them sizzles and I loved the suspense.

http://areadersreviewblog.com/2014/09/20/too-much-to-lose-dirty-little-secrets-by-samantha-holt-book-tour-review/

doublealchemy_final1Double Alchemy, by Susan Mac Nicol – Erotic Paranormal mm romance, adult read/18+

Sizzling and Original, full of raging desire, humour and suspense, which pulls no punches in terms of passion or plot. It encompasses magic, warlocks and witches, fey, witchfinders, immortals and more. The romance bewteen Cade and Quinn is, well, super hot and the complex plot brims with danger, violence and suspense!

http://areadersreviewblog.com/2014/04/30/blog-tour-review-giveaway-double-alchemy-by-susan-mac-nicol/

Restoring Lady Anna, by Em Taylor –  Sensual Regency Historical Romancerestoring-lady-anna-cover

Passionate and Compelling Regency which examines some heavy issues – kidnap, mental health and social mores – in particular the expectations imposed on women by the Ton. At the centre of the tale is the romance between Anna and James. Fate has now reunited them but their current circumstances could not be more different and there are moral as well as social dilemmas to overcome if they are to secure their HEA.

http://areadersreviewblog.com/2014/06/26/restoring-lady-anna-by-em-taylor-blog-tour-and-review/

weeping_angels_coverWeeping Angels. By Crisy Rey – Contemporary Romance/Women’s Fiction

A Beautiful, Raw and Intense Love Story – an intense journey embarked on by two lost souls and deals with the raw emotions of grief, guilt, anger and pain. It is also a beautiful inspirational love story, unlike no other I have read. I am awed by the versatility of this writer.

http://areadersreviewblog.com/2014/07/25/weeping-angels-by-cristy-rey-blog-tour-review-and-giveaway/

Irrevocable, by Skye Callahan – Dark Eroric Romance – 18+/adult Readirrevocable

Freakin’ Brilliant! This dark read is deeply psychological as it examines the themes of domination, submission and sadism. It also contains a heart rending love story spotlighting how far would you submit to survive and in doing so could you preserve your sense of self? Loved it!

http://areadersreviewblog.com/2014/07/24/irrevocable-by-skye-callahan-blog-tour-includes-review-excerpt-and-giveaway/

PP Cover.3838236-Primary Fault CVR UBC-ps4NEWBCT-FIN-12X18-06141Primary Fault, by Sharon Kae Reamer –  Fantasy Romance

Absorbing and Original  – A clever and original read which merges mythology and magic with a heady mixture of romance, science and suspense. It is full of mystery and secrets with a complex plot and superbly well drawn characters, which drew me in from the off. Awarded a B.R.A.G. medallion.

http://areadersreviewblog.com/2014/08/31/review-of-primary-fault-by-sharon-kae-reamer/

Pepper Winters, Indebted #1 –  Dark Erotic Romance, 18+ /adult read21400356 (2)

Deliciously Dark – a world where innocence is consumed by darkness and depravity, the first instalment of Pepper Winter’s Indebted series. I am addicted to the story of Nila, the sheltered heroine and  Jethro, the anti-hero, who is out to break her. A fantastic and sometimes chilling dark read and I adore the battle of wills between the central couple.

http://areadersreviewblog.com/2014/08/23/debt-inheritance-indebted-1-by-pepper-winters/

20800676 (2)Unlovable, by Cynthia St Aubin – Paranormal Romance

A Panty-Wetting, Laugh-out-Loud Read, which contains a love-sick Cupid, a sex obsessed demigod, in the form of Crixus and a dark and dangerous hit-man cum kidnapper, with his own psychological issues. All three burst into the well-ordered life of Dr Matlda Schmidt, a sexually repressed/control loving kinda girl and chaos reigns big-time!

http://areadersreviewblog.com/2014/08/16/unlovable-the-case-files-of-dr-matilda-schmidt-paranormal-psychologist-by-cynthia-st-aubin/

Lady Beauchamp’s Proposal, by Amy Rose Bennett – Erotic Historical Romance 18+/adult readEdinburgh castle over dramatic clouds, Scotland, UK

Gothic Inspired Regency Noir par excellence – A powerful and emotionally charged dark and angst ridden Regency romance. Full of secrets and suspense and brimming with raw sensuality and has a real taste of the gothic about it. A strong heroine and a swoon worthy hero!

http://areadersreviewblog.com/2014/10/12/review-lady-beauchamps-proposal-amy-rose-bennett/

mistunveiled_hires (2)Mist Unveiled, Nancy Corrigan – Erotic Paranormal Romance, 18+/adult read 

Sizzling and Emotional! Nancy Corrigan has not only done her homework on Ragnarok (the end of the world), but given it a fresh twist in her release of Mist Unveiled, book 1 in her new series, Elemental Desire. This novel just sizzles and the romance between Cat and Rune could well ignite your reading device!

http://areadersreviewblog.com/2014/11/29/review-mist-unveiled-elemental-desire-book-1-by-nancy-corrigan/

Darker Shadows (The Ghosts of Ravencrest Book 1), by Tamara Thorne and Alistair Cross, Paranormal/Horror Erotica, 23510454Adult/18+ read

Gothic Erotica to Delight and Entertain the Senses!  – a top notch quality erotica, a fantastic foray into the world of an innocent who quickly succumbs to the temptations on offer at the infamous and allegedly haunted Ravenscrest Manor and her own burgeoning carnal desires.

http://areadersreviewblog.com/2014/11/01/review-the-new-governess-1-and-awakening-2-in-the-erotic-adventures-of-belinda-by-tamara-thorne-and-alistair-cross/

sheikh-boxed-web (2)Taken by the Sheikh, Mel Treshco, Christina Phillips and Cathleen Ross, Erotic Romance, 18+/adult read 

A collection of delicious captor/captive fantasies – Hostage to the Sheikh (Mel Teshco), The Sheikh’s Mistaken Bride, by Christina Phillips and Sold to the Sheikh, by Cathleen Ross. I have just finished reading this smexy collection of sizzling but sweet romances and my review is in the making, but I will say that it is one of my favourite reads of the year. Each interconnecting tale (which can be read alone) is very different, as are each respective hero and heroine, but all three are super reads to escape into!

http://areadersreviewblog.com/2014/12/22/release-blitz-for-taken-by-the-sheikh-boxed-set-by-christina-phillips-mel-treshco-and-cathleen-ross-includes-giveaway/

Tempting His Mistress, by Samantha Holt – Sensual Historical Romancetemptinghismistress800 (2)

A Sensual Delight! This page turning read has a strong hero and heroine in Lily and Evan and a sensual and suspenseful plot. It also touches on a number of burning social issues of the day pertinent to women and their role in society and how much their lot in life was controlled by men. this is Samantha Holt’s first Victorian romance and I loved it as much as her contemporaries and medieval romances.

http://areadersreviewblog.com/2014/12/18/review-tempting-his-mistress-by-samantha-holt/

22883671 (3)Red Wolf’s Prize, by Regan Walker, Medieval Romance

A fantastic read, full of passion, deceit and adventure! Following his invasion of England, William stamps his authority on his new vassals by confiscating lands from English thegns, gifting them to his loyal knights and constructing castles to intimidate and control. Sir Renaud de Peirrepont is gifted the demesne of Talisand and its lady Serena as his bride, only the good lady will do her utmost to escape her fate…..

http://areadersreviewblog.com/2014/10/01/arc-review-the-red-wolfs-prize-medieval-warriors-1-by-regan-walker/

30 Days to Syn, by Charlotte Boyett-Compo, Contemporary Erotic Romance, 18+/adult read30daystosyn_3

Sizzling and Emotional – it contains Synjyn, a tortured alpha male, Lina, a sassy and selfless heroine, panty drenching sexual tension and sizzling love making scenes. There is also drama, emotion and humour and super supporting characters.

http://areadersreviewblog.com/2014/06/16/review-30-days-to-syn-by-charlotte-boyett-compo/

 

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Release Blitz for *Taken by the Sheikh* (Boxed Set), by Christina Phillips, Mel Teshco and Cathleen Ross (includes giveaway)

SHEIKH Banner Web

We are thrilled to be participating in the Release Blitz for Taken by the Sheikh, a boxed set comprising three steamy romances from bestselling authors Christina Phillips, Cathleen Ross and Mel Teshco. Scroll down to read the book blurbs and the author links. You can also find the links to the first chapter of each of these sizzling stories and enter a super giveaway! To read the recent interview we carried out on our blog with Christina, Mel and Cathleen click here. Tina and Caroline ❤

Three desert Sheikhs. Three captive brides…

SHEIKH Boxed Web

 

Bound by duty to honor their father’s dying wish, three royal brothers must marry their destined brides… by whatever means necessary…

Book 1: Hostage to the Sheikh ~ Mel Teshco

Sheikh Shahzad Salah al Din doesn’t have time for hearts and flowers, not when his parents’ bodies are barely even cold in their graves and his country, Omana, is on the brink of revolt. He has to secure peace by honoring a long ago arrangement to make English rose, Lexi Galvin, his wife. The trouble is strong-willed Lexi isn’t aware of her royal Arab lineage let alone her destiny. There is only one way Shahzad can guarantee she will be his queen … and he isn’t above using force to get it.

Book 2: The Sheikh’s Mistaken Bride ~ Christina Phillips

In order to secure a powerful alliance for his country, Khalid has no choice but to marry a neighboring princess. It’s not what he wants, but duty must come before pleasure. Yet when he meets the beautiful Sanura he changes his mind… only to discover the virgin in his bed is not his destined bride.

Book 3: Sold to the Sheikh ~ Cathleen Ross

He’d paid a fortune for his bride and he was determined to collect, whether she liked it or not. Rafi Salah al Din doesn’t trust easily. In charge of security for his country Omana, he devotes his life to duty. With his parents murdered it is his duty to stabilize his country by finding his parents’ assassin, marry and produce a son to ensure the Salah al Din line lives on. So why does the wife he bought disagree?

Read Chapter One of Hostage to the Sheikh

Read Chapter One of The Sheikh’s Mistaken Bride

Read Chapter One of Sold to the Sheikh

Release Date: 25th December 2014

Bios

Christina, Cathleen and Mel have been good friends for years, so when Cathleen came up with the idea of us writing a box set together both authors jumped at the chance to create an exciting, interweaving story about three sheikhs finding love.

Cathleen’s Bio: Cathleen loves writing for Harlequin and Escape publishing. Her latest release: Secret Housewives of Sydney: Nella has been described as the most shocking of the housewives. Of that she is very proud and glad she writes under an assumed name. When she’s not writing for her publisher she’s self publishing. Her latest self-published project is Highlander Romance. For a free Highlander story go to:

http://www.amazon.com/Highlander-Forbidden-Fantasy-Book-2-ebook/dp/B005L388OG

Mel’s Bio: Mel Teshco’s gypsy-like upbringing saw her living in many places along Australia’s east coast. Each new home stimulated an already over-active imagination, where she spent as much time dreaming about fantasy worlds as the real world – the fantasy sometimes being much better.

She is a multi-published author with a love for the written word along with a short attention span that sees her juggling a variety of genres and heat levels in her stories. From contemporary to paranormal, inspirational to erotic, she hopes there’s a little of something for every reader out there to enjoy.

Christina’s 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 where the stories sizzle and the heroine brings 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.

Friend us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter

Mel:        Facebook    Twitter

Christina: Facebook    Twitter

Cathleen: Facebook   Twitter 

Capture Taken by the Sheikh at the special low introductory price of  $0.99 for six weeks only!

ARe      Amazon      Amazon UK     Kobo      Nook      Page Foundry

Enter the Release Blitz Giveaway

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

 

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**AUTHOR INTERVIEWS** with Mel Teshco, Christina Phillips and Cathleen Ross, authors of Taken by the Sheikh

The attraction of captor/captive romances, inspiration for their Hot Desert Sheikhs and scorching scenes and more………

I am SO excited to share with you the interviews with the three bestselling authors who each wrote one of the books which make up the TAKEN BY THE SHEIKH boxed set. When I was given the opportunity to quiz them on these hot alpha men and the women they decide to make their own I jumped at the chance! I also asked them about their collaboration on the scorching erotic series, ‘Secret Confessions: Sydney Housewives’ their writing process and their future projects. Scroll down to read the interview and be sure to visit us on 22nd December when we will be sharing more information about the release and details of a Rafflecopter giveaway! Tina 🙂

Three desert Sheikhs. Three captive brides…

SHEIKH Boxed Web

 

Bound by duty to honor their father’s dying wish, three royal brothers must marry their destined brides… by whatever means necessary…

Q&As with Christina, Mel and Cathleen

1. Where did the idea for writing the boxed set, ‘Taken by the Sheikh’ come from?

Mel – Cathleen had the idea of the boxed set and working with other authors, when she asked if I was interested I couldn’t say yes fast enough! I love trying new concepts and ideas. As for the sheikh idea – I just happened to have started a sheikh story of my own and so we ran with it!

Cathleen – I’ve seen authors have great success with boxed sets, so I decided to pick two writers whose work I love and felt I could work with. I think these two things are essential for a project.

Christina – It was funny because I’d wanted to get involved in a boxed set for a few months but had no idea how to begin the process. So when Cathleen contacted me with her idea I was thrilled! I’d also never tackled a Sheikh hero before so the challenge was irresistible. 🙂

2. I see that you have also collaborated on writing the ‘Secret Confessions: Sydney Housewives series.’ In terms of working together, to what extent did you bounce ideas off each other before, during and after writing the first draft? Also have you any tips on what makes such a collaboration a success?

Mel – I think we relied more on our editor (Tracey O’Hara) who was kind of the anchor for this series. When I wrote my housewife, Camilla, when interactions with other characters occurred to me – I’d talk to Tracey and/or the other author of that character and ensure it all came together seamlessly and made sense.

Cathleen – For Taken by the Sheikh – We have three brothers who have to marry fast because their parents have been assassinated and their country’s stability is at risk. That’s the basic premise. From that point we each wrote out story but we had to check things with each other re: continuity. For any project there has to be some give and take and we all were prepared to do that.

Christina – In my Secret Confessions book, Willow, whenever I brought in one of the other housewives I’d contact that author and run my scene by them to ensure they were happy with what I’d done. With our Sheikh books it was more a case of hammering out our world and the brothers’ backgrounds so we were all on the same page before we started, and then ensuring the continuity ran smoothly. I think it’s essential that each author in this kind of project is willing to be flexible to accommodate each other’s story threads.

3. Why do you think that the captor/captive theme in romance novels has such an everlasting appeal?

Mel – I think it’s because it’s so alpha and illegal and bad, and let’s face it we all love a bit of a bad boy – it trips that little flutter button inside us.

Cathleen – Mel and I love writing forced seduction whereas Christina prefers romance. She’s the rose writer between two thorns. I think as a romantic trope the sexy dark commanding sheikh is here to stay because he’s the ultimate alpha male.

Christina – I think it’s the whole forbidden/fantasy aspect that’s so appealing. I love reading about these take no prisoner Alpha heroes but in real life I’d probably smack him around the head.

4. Where do you get your inspiration from for your male/female leads?

Mel – I’m a very visual person, my characters form in my head and come together as I write – their looks and their personalities. If I’m really organized I’ll do a character chart and even a bit of a plot, but I find letting everything come together on its own and layering as I go works better. 

Cathleen – I always see my hero first and the initial situation. This sheikh is dark, secretive and dangerous. I don’t plot. I write and it flows out like a movie.

Christina – I’m really not sure. It’s all in my mind and they are so real to me. I don’t pick out photos of celebrities or anything like that – although it’s a strange but true fact that many of my heroes do closely resemble Henry Canvill!

5. You have probably been asked this many times already, but where do you get your ideas from for your smoking hot/erotic scenes? lol

Mel – My husband would love to say I practise everything on him, but I guess it’s mostly that I have a good imagination LOL 

Cathleen – My husband is convinced it’s all about him and his moves. Me? I have a never ending supply of stories that demand to be written. Some come to me in dreams, some characters catch my attention and demand their own stories. If I don’t write them they bug me at three in the morning so I just get on with it.

Christina – Writing hot love scenes is just part of the way I enjoy writing my romances. To me they’re an essential part of the story where the characters are laid bare – in more ways than the obvious. So as far as where do the ideas come from, they are kind of organic to the hero and heroine of that particular story, just as every other scene is.

6. Why do you enjoy writing romance?

Mel – I just love writing a happily ever after and seeing two people (or sometimes more!) get together despite seemingly impossible odds. There’s nothing quite like a love story with undercurrents of danger. 

Cathleen – I’m passionate about the craft and trying to improve and try different things. I write in different genres which so the challenge is always there for me. I love reading a well-crafted romance and getting the satisfaction of a happy ending.

Christina – I love crafting seemingly impossible conflicts and then discovering how my hero and heroine overcome them to reach their happily-ever-after. I love my HEA. There should be more of them. 🙂

7. When you are not writing, what do you like to do?

Mel – Reading, going to the cinema and watching brilliant movies, catching up on series like The Walking Dead, watching a little too much reality tv, and having a few drinks in the afternoon with my hubster.

Cathleen – Reading, walking my puppy. I’m obsessed with the Walking Dead, going to my little farm and growing vegetables, hanging out with other writers, cooking and having my friends over.

Christina – I like to sleep! LOL! Apart from that I love reading, catching up on missed shows and movies on DVD, being a devoted slave to my kitties and of course spending precious time with my gorgeous family.

8. Finally, what works have you in the pipeline?

Mel – Where to start! I’m continuing writing for the ES Siren series with Denise Rossetti and Shona Husk, and I also have a longer length sub with a publisher that’s pretty different to what I usually write. I’m also working on another longer ms in first person point of view – a mutant story set in a post-apocalyptic, dystopian world. 

Cathleen – I’m finalising a zombie apocalypse novel set on a navy base for my publisher, I have two boxed set projects to do with Mel and Christina, my publisher has given me to the go ahead for an Aussie outback type novel and people keep asking me for BDSM novels after the success of ‘Secret Confessions: Sydney Housewives series.’ I’m also writing my next Highlander story as Highlander Romance is selling so well.

Christina – I’m currently writing three linked books for Entangled Publishing’s Brazen line about three bad boy brothers. This is the first time I’ve set books in the States so this is another challenge for me. Next year I plan to self publish a sexy contemporary and write another boxed set with Cathleen and Mel.

Thank you for taking time out to answer my questions, Christina, Mel and Cathleen. We wish you the very best on the release! Tina and Caroline ❤ ❤ ❤

Capture Taken by the Sheikh at the special low introductory price of  $0.99 for six weeks only!

ARe      Amazon      Amazon UK     Kobo      Nook      Page Foundry

Connect with the Authors

Mel:        Facebook    Twitter

Christina: Facebook    Twitter

Cathleen: Facebook   Twitter

 

 

 

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Review Round Up December ’14

Hi readers, we hope that you’re Christmas preparations are going well and that you are not too stressed with all of the arrangements, shopping and wrapping to do! Here is the last Review Round Up of 2014! As usual, there are quite a few genres with the fourteen books that we have reviewed, and we do hope that they pique your interest. (For the full review please click on the titles.)

You may be pleased to hear that we will both be doing our Top Reads of 2014 over the holidays. We have had the pleasure of reading many great reads and look forward to sharing them!

Enjoy!

Caroline & Tina ❤

Invasion Earth (Delroi Connection #1) by Loribelle Hunt, erotic/sci-fi romance (reviewed by Tina)

In the distant future, Earth has been ravaged by war and famine, and after generations of bloodshed settles into peace only to be invaded by the alien Delroi. General Alrik Torfa needs a mate and his seers promise mates for many of his people on the distant planet Earth. He doesn’t expect her to come easily, but is more than a little surprised to find her leading an enemy army. Outmanned and outgunned, there is no way the Earth forces can win.Sergeant Major Laney Bradford has always played her part and served her people well, but the demands of the Delroi’s surrender are a bit extreme. Marriage? To one of them? Not likely. But she’s fought for peace her entire life and when surrender talks are threatened by a conspiracy led by her people, Laney must choose. Will she submit to the alien invader or lead the fight against him?

Entropy by Robert Raker, dark crime drama, thriller suspense (reviewed by Caroline)

When a series of child abductions and murders disrupt the life of an economically blighted community, the consequences have far-reaching implications. The brutal crimes take a different toll on a disparate group of individuals; the scuba diver who retrieves the children’s bodies; the disfigured cellist who thinks he knows who’s responsible; the undercover federal agent; and the mother of one of the victim’s.
United in a situation not of their choosing, they are forced to take a deep, introspective look into their intersected, yet isolated lives.

To Avenge Her Highland Warrior (Highland Fae Chronicles #3) by Samantha Holt, historical romance, fantasy (reviewed by Tina)

Lorna lost everything to war. Her home, her wealth… her lover. And now she wants revenge. When her hasty plan throws her at the mercy of her enemy’s men, she holds little hope of returning to her kin and fears death is around the corner. But could her salvation lie in the arms of her dark captor? Logan has little time to be dealing with a stubborn noble woman. His orders are to prepare for war. His laird—the man he owes his life to—intends to join forces with the Norse and bring a battle to Scotland that will see the fate of the country forever changed. Scarred, and with no memory of his past, Logan is determined to forge a new future for himself as well as prove his loyalty to the laird. But the beautiful lass has him questioning his previous life and his goals. When she starts claiming he once loved her, he knows he’s being manipulated and she’s taking advantage of his memory loss. So why is it so hard to resist the idea of having once been her lover? With the threat of impending war—a battle that promises to bring slaughter to her family—can Lorna persuade Logan to believe her, and is the bitter man he’s become even worth saving? Whatever the outcome of the battle, a certain interfering faery is resolved to see fate back on its correct path. And that means forcing Lorna and Logan together—no matter their differences.

COLD CALL BOOK COVER - with blood SAFE COPYCold Call by Colin Llewelyn Chapman, dark crime drama, thriller (reviewed by Caroline)

Wealthy entrepreneur Robin Bradford had it all – the house, the cars, the fine dining – and he lost it all. All except Lizzie, his perfect, loving girlfriend. Down on his luck and with no immediate prospects in business, Robin’s energies found another outlet, Just a little something spicy to bide his time until his financial world recovered, leading him down a very seedy path, onto a very rocky road. Time however was all he had, and all he was going to get.

Due to violence, drug references and sexual content, readers are recommended to be of 18yrs+.

Benddontbreak_front_coverBend, Don’t Break (Irrevocable #2) by Skye Callahan, dark erotic romance (reviewed by Tina)

I thought I was done.
my End
I couldn’t take my eyes off her as the bullet tore through me, leaving me with nothing but the hope that I had done enough to save her. The darkness tried to engulf me—to brand me as its own and drag me to my fate.
my Darkness
Waking to see her tear-stained face above me was enough to make my heart stutter. I was alive and free from that place—but not from the toll it had taken on my mind and body.
my Strength
My story should have ended, but one woman kept standing in the way of that. The only way I could have her was to find a way to put the darkness to rest.

Boots Beneath My Bed (Miranda's Story)Boots Beneath My Bed (Miranda’s Story) (Duty & Desire #4) by C.J. Pinard, contemporary military romance, romantic comedy, chick-lit (reviewed by Caroline)

Miranda Cates finally graduates from college and is excited to begin her dream career in law enforcement. After the final betrayal and heartbreak of her college boyfriend, Chris, she moves back home with a firm plan in place for her life.

However, the life she has carefully mapped out for herself takes a serious left turn. Miranda finds she not only has to be strong for herself, but for the daughter who hadn’t been part of her plan.

Determined to still believe in true love, life throws Miranda one more wicked curveball. She meets Jace Lawless, a hot minor league baseball player, whose warm aqua eyes and big dimple have her unraveling her carefully laid plans. A man who may be just be too good to be true.

Boots Beneath My Bed (Miranda’s Story) is book 3 in the Duty & Desire series, and while it is recommended to read the books in order, it’s not necessary.

An Autumn CrushAn Autumn Crush by Milly Johnson, contemporary romantic comedy (reviewed by Caroline)

In the heart of the windy season, four friends are about to get swept off their feet…

Newly single after a bruising divorce, Juliet Miller moves into a place of her own and advertises for a flatmate, little believing that, in her mid-thirties, she’ll find anyone suitable. Then, just as she’s about to give up hope, along comes self-employed copywriter Floz, and the two women hit it off straight away.

When Juliet’s gentle giant of a twin brother, Guy, meets Floz, he falls head over heels. But, as hard as he tries to charm her, his foot seems to be permanently in his mouth. Meanwhile, Guy’s best friend Steve has always had a secret crush on Juliet – one which could not be more unrequited if it tried…

As Floz and Juliet’s friendship deepens, and Floz becomes a part of the Miller family, can Guy turn her affection for them into something more – into love for him? And what will happen to Steve’s heart when Juliet eventually catches the eye of Piers – the man of her dreams?

21473101Apartment 2B by K. Webster, Adult contemporary paranormal romance (reviewed by Tina)

Sidney has a rough life. Her mom is incredibly abusive both mentally and physically. One day, she’s awarded the escape she’s always wanted and thrust into a world she barely understands. Each day is a struggle to feel human and not terrified of everything around her.

Sidney has rules. Routines. Structure. It’s the only way she can cope

When a handsome, yet mysterious stranger inserts himself into her life, Sidney begins to come apart at the seams. She’s having trouble sticking to her habits and it’s threatening to shred any hope of a normal life to pieces. Will this stranger help her in ways no other person can, or will things get worse for her?

He comes with his own set of problems and secrets he’s unwilling to share. Will they work together through the mess of their pasts or will they get caught up enabling each other? Will their toxic relationship ultimately be destined for demise?

MistUnveiled_HiResMist Unveiled (Elemental Desire #1) by Nancy Corrigan, erotic paranormal romance (reviewed by Tina)

Cat has one love in her life—science. Facts rule her, not passion. At least it doesn’t until an unknown deadly virus claims her sister’s life. Cat’s quest for answers takes her to Greenland and drops her into the arms of the one man who sways her devotion from logic to passion. Rune stirs her lusts, ignites her desires and fuels her carnal cravings, but he isn’t simply a lover, nor is he human. He’s a weapon, one that has the potential to save or destroy her.

Rune, a child of the mist, awakens into a world hovering on the verge of destruction. Rising temperatures have released his enemies from their frozen prison without his knowledge. He searches for them but finds Cat, a human with the power to save him and the world. He hungers for her—blood, body and soul. Every moment of shared passion convinces him of the truth—she’s his greatest treasure, one he’ll die to keep.

Secret Confessions: Sydney Housewives (Virginia #1, Lana #2 & Nella #3) by Rhian Cahill, Cate Ellink & Cathleen Ross, erotica (reviewed by Tina)

Cool, collected, confident – those who know Virginia in her personal and professional life would never expect to find her in Boyd’s, a bar across town from her circle of friends and socialite world. But Boyd’s offers her something she can’t get among her rarefied acquaintances: sex. Rough, hard, mind-blowing, anonymous sex. In her casual clothes, she’s no one important. Incognito, unnoticed by everyone except one: the bartender who knows her drink order – and would like to know a whole lot more.

22584Lana by Cate Ellink: Lana lives her life by her own rules – and she has very few. What she wants, she goes for, and she very rarely fails. So when a young, handsome waiter at her favourite restaurant catches her eye, she has no hesitation in asking him to escort her home. But one night of passion opens up exciting new possibilities, and a chance for Lana to enact one of her deepest, most illicit fantasies.

23510826Nella by Cathleen Ross: Nella is one hundred percent in control of her life – all aspects of her life. She excels at knowing what everyone needs, and in meeting those needs. So when it comes to her husband, Michael, and his deepest desires and most fundamental requirements, she is committed, creative, and unswerving in her responsibilities. A strong man needs a strong woman, and Nella’s love is as strong as steel.

Cursed (Cursed trilogy #1) & Obsession (Cursed trilogy #2) by Georgina Hannan, young adult paranormal horror (reviewed by Caroline)

CursedCursed: Reality and Myths collide.
A young adult story about a group of four friends who embark on a holiday together to the gorgeous countryside of Dartmoor, Devon. Each of them hoping for an adventure, something they will always remember. However it isn’t long before they get what they want.

The group are plagued by noises after hearing the myths and legends of the area. Is it just their overactive imaginations or is there a visitor in the spare room who is trying to get their attention?

Join the group on a spectacular journey as they discover what Dartmoor has to offer.

Obsession by Georgina Hannan_1Obsession: There’s a fine line between Obsession and Madness.

After a strange and exciting holiday, Daisy is looking forward to the new start University life will bring.

A life changing assignment makes her question the fine line between Obsession and Madness.

Can she tell the difference?
Can you?

CANDY CAIN by C.L. Scholey - Click Image to CloseCandy Cain (festive short story) by C.L. Scholey, hot, contemporary romance, festive (reviewed by Caroline)

Candy is on top of the world. She’s a high priced corporate lawyer with expensive cars, time on her hands, and money to burn. Although, she has no one to burn it on, except for a yearly ritual of buying toys and treats for the needy at Christmas time.

Cain is an egotistical enigma. A very deprived and hurting enigma, who feels wishes are for fools. A car accident leaves them stranded together, and the two have no choice but to warm each other’s cold bodies, lest they freeze to death.

As the temperature dips outside, the heat begins to sizzle inside. Candy and Cain, though worlds apart in society, begin to feel perhaps they have more in common than either could ever wish for.

Will they both discover the miracle of Christmas wishes isn’t just for the very young?

A Way from Heart to HeartA Way From Heart to Heart by Helena Fairfax, contemporary romance (reviewed by Caroline)

After the death of her husband in Afghanistan, Kate Hemingway’s world collapses around her. Kate’s free time is spent with a charity for teenage girls, helping them mend their broken lives – which is ironic, since her own life is fractured beyond repair.

Reserved, ex-public school journalist Paul Farrell is everything Kate and her teenage charges aren’t. But when Paul agrees to help Kate with her charity, he makes a stunning revelation that changes everything.

But can Kate take a risk with her son’s happiness as well as her own?

6624391The Silent Governess by Julie Klassen, historical romance, religious (reviewed by Tina)

Believing herself guilty of a crime, Olivia Keene flees her home, eventually stumbling upon a grand estate where an elaborate celebration is in progress. But all is not as joyous as it seems. Lord Bradley has just learned a terrible secret, which, if exposed, will change his life forever. When he glimpses a figure on the grounds, he fears a spy or thief has overheard his devastating news. He is stunned to discover the intruder is a scrap of a woman with her throat badly injured. Fearing she will spread his secret, he gives the girl a post and confines her to his estate. As Olivia and Lord Bradley’s secrets catch up with them, will their hidden pasts ruin their hope of finding love?