January 4, 2017 by Tina Williams

REVIEW ~ The Found: A Crow City Novel #2, by Cole McCade

#dark #erotica #darkread #noncon

Blurb

Witness to a murder. Kidnapped by a monster. Life hanging on a whim. Willow Armitage’s world was already falling apart; between getting fired and caring for her chronically ill father, she’s had little room for anything but survival. But that survival hangs in the balance the night she stumbles into a back alley – and watches a stranger die at the hands of the most beautiful man she’s ever seen.

Lethal. Powerful. Unstable. Terrifying. The contract killer known only as Priest is a dangerous unknown, and when Willow wakes tied to a chair in his hideout, the only thing she sees in his fox-gold eyes is death. Yet for Priest, Willow is a dilemma: an innocent, a saint among the sinners he cuts down in the streets of Crow City. His code of honor forbids shedding innocent blood. Releasing her will send her straight to the police. The only answer is a warped game, and his promise: that he will find the darkness inside her, expose it, and prove that deep down, everyone is just as monstrous as he…and just as worthy of death.

Yet he unearths not a monster, but a smoldering and secret desire – one that has always terrified Willow, and may be her undoing. His touch sets her alight. His strength burns through her like flame. And his control melts her each time he binds her virgin body, possesses her, teaches her the strength in weakness and the passion in submission. But that passion may be her damnation, and in the end Willow must choose: Priest’s love, or her own life.

When his every kiss is pure sin…can she resist damnation long enough for Priest to find his way to redemption?

TRIGGER WARNING 18+: This story contains content centered around non-consent, bodily autonomy, sexual assault, bodily functions, and violence. Please focus on self-care above all, and don’t be afraid to put the book down if you need to in order to protect yourself. You come first, always.

My Review ~ 5 stars

Dark and Deliciously Twisted!

The Found, #2 in The Crow City Series, is a thoroughly intense and addictive read. I was captivated by the unfolding story of the contract killer Priest and Willow his captive, a story which examines dark and disturbing themes including non consent, violence and sexual assault. If you are at all likely to be distressed by any of these issues you may wish to give this book a miss – and I do not say this lightly. Cole McCade is a new author for me and I will most definitely be reading more of his book! The book can be read as a standalone, although the main character of Priest, the hero (or should I say anti-hero) does feature in the other books in the series.

The book is one of the darkest novels that I have read and boy was it one hell of an amazing ride! Both the hero and the heroine are broken before they meet: Willow, a long time carer to her father has been scarred on account of traumatic childhood relationships, and Priest due to his horrific experiences as a prisoner of war (experiences which we gain a glimpse of in this book).

I do not want to reveal more about their respective pasts, as finding out about what makes the main characters tick is part of the joy of reading – suffice to say that Willow believes that sexual contact is dirty and that prior to her abduction by Priest she felt that her life was at an all time low. The book contains some accounts of Willow as she is growing up and we are given an insight into her psyche and what has made her what she is today. As to Priest, his coping mechanism is to dedicate his life to killing those who he views as scourges on society – the paedophiles, drug dealers and abusers. A hired killer he prides himself on ensuring that his targets are deserving of his attention before he takes on the hit.

The book contains violent and graphic scenes, any of them sexual and as I said is not for the faint hearted. When Willow inadvertently witnesses Priest’s latest kill, he kidnaps her and takes her to his hideout. He is in a quandary as self preservation dictates that he should he kill her to avoid leaving loose ends. However, his personal code baulks at destroying an innocent – yet just how innocent is Willow? Priest decides to find out as such as he can about his captive, probing into her life and psychology to decide whether or not she deserves to die. Much of the read is chilling. Willow’s terror at being abducted by Priest is palpable and I really felt for her.

Slowly Willow, the captive and Priest, the killer, form a connection, a connection that becomes more and more intense, physical and sexual. Ironically Willow finds that her captivity allows her to find inner strength that she did not know she had, facing up to her past and what she is capable of. Her captivity and the fact that Priest could decide to extinguish her life at any point gives her the freedom to act as never before – after all what does she have to lose?

The sex scenes between Willow and Priest sizzle and undoubtedly had me questioning the boundaries between non consent, dubious consent and consensual sex. Priest is a dark and tortured anti-hero and throughout the read I was unsure if he could ever redeem himself as he is so damaged. Willow’s fate certainly hung in the balance. Yet slowly Willow, who he comes to refers to as Firefly, comes to represent light in his darkness. It remained to be seen whether this will be enough to secure either Willow or even Priest’s own salvation…

The read really is a tour de force for fans of dark reads and dark romance. Highly recommended.

Reviewed by Tina Williams

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FAQ

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8432536.Cole_McCade

August 17, 2016 by Tina Williams

REVIEW – How to Capture A Duke (Matchmaking for Wallflowers Book 1), by Bianca Blythe

Regency Historical Romance

Book Blurb

One reclusive bluestocking…

Fiona Amberly is more intrigued by the Roman ruins near her manor house than she is by balls. When her dying Grandmother worries about Fiona’s future, Fiona stammers that she’s secretly engaged. Soon she finds herself promising that she will introduce her husband-to-be by Christmas.

One dutiful duke…

Percival Carmichael, new Duke of Alfriston, is in a hurry. He’s off to propose to London’s most eligible debutante. After nearly dying at Waterloo, he’s vowed to spend the rest of his life living up to the ton’s expectations.

One fallen tree…

When Fiona tries to warn a passing coach about a tree in the road, the driver mistakes her for a highwaywoman. Evidently he’s not used to seeing women attired in clothes only suitable for archaeology waving knives. After the driver flees, Fiona decides she may as well borrow the handsome passenger…

My Review

Delightful Regency Romp – 5 Stars

This is a superb read by Bianca Blythe. Book #1 in the author’s Matchmaking for Wallflowers series, it contains a feisty and unconventional heroine and a war veteran who, after a brush with death, is committed to conforming to society’s expectations. This fast-paced romance is both amusing and heartfelt.

To comfort her beloved grandmother and avoid any matchmaking attempts, Fiona invents a fiancée. Not just any fiancée, but a gentleman who has valiantly fought in the war, a convenient ruse, as it conveniently explains her husband-to-be’s continuing absence…

However, circumstances conspire so that Fiona is compelled to conjure up said fiancée. Fate plays into her hands when her impulsive nature prompts her to warn a passing coach, which is thundering through the countryside, about a fallen tree. On account of her unconventional behaviour and dress (Fiona has been busy on an archaeological dig) and the fact that she is carrying knives, both the coachman and its occupant are convinced that she is a highwaywoman. Events rapidly spiral out of control and she takes the opportunity to ‘kidnap’ the occupant of the coach, who is conveniently a returning war veteran, and present him to her grandmother as her fiancée.

It is not long before Percival Carmichael, the Duke of Alfrison, decides to entertain himself and play along with his captor’s charade for a few days. So what if he pushes his family responsibilities to the side for a short time, what harm can it do? He is drawn to Fiona’s unconventional behaviour and passion for archaeology, not to mention her beauty and madcap family.

The book is extremely well-paced and highly amusing throughout. I loved the characters of both the hero and the heroine who are extremely well matched. Percival is a reformed rake – reformed on account of the war, which has affected him physically and mentally. He has unexpectedly become a duke, with all of the attendant responsibilities, which he is honour bound to meet. The tension between what Percival desires and how he grapples with what is expected of him is extremely well done by the author. As to Fiona, I loved her feisty and unpredictable nature and how her confidence grew in strength despite the repercussions of her behaviour. I was glued to the pages willing a HEA for the couple as the truth of their situation begins to unravel and misunderstandings abound!

A top read for fans of Regency Romance.

Reviewed by Tina Williams

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

Purchase Links

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Connect with the Author

http://www.biancablythe.com/

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14777090.Bianca_Blythe

https://www.facebook.com/biancablythebooks/

July 5, 2016 by Caroline Barker

REVIEW The Double by Alison Brodie

It was a great pleasure to be approached by author, Alison Brodie, and be asked to read The Double. I am so very glad that she did. It’s an amazing adventure; a great book to read if you’re planning a holiday or even basking in the sunshine in your garden. Get ready for the most relaxing adventure you’ll experience!

“The luxury of living a lie.”

Title: The Double

Author: Alison Brodie

Genre: Women’s fiction, mystery, romance, chick-lit

Date released: January 19th, 2016

Length: 294 pages

Blurb: A night she can’t remember. A week she won’t forget.

Beth is mistaken for rock star Sonita La Cruz, and ends up on a billionaire-dollar yacht. As a shift-worker in Glasgow, Beth has only known hardship. Now she’s in a world of uniformed stewards, delicious French food and rows of gorgeous designer clothes. Beth keeps quiet about the mix-up, determined to wear every outfit in her wardrobe before she’s sent home. What’s wrong with a little play-acting? Beth takes to the role of rock diva like a duck takes to water.

Aleksandr, the captain, arrives and is astonished to see a beautiful raven-haired girl lying on deck issuing orders through a loud-hailer. After talking to Beth, Aleksandr realises what has happened. His smuggling buddies, knowing Aleksandr needs to speak to Sonita about a kid’s crisis, grabbed Beth by mistake. Aleksandr is desperate. To save those children, he needs money, but Sonita has disappeared.

Beth rises to the challenge. She looks like Sonita, so why not BE Sonita? Beth does a magazine interview for one million dollars, and ransoms herself for another million. Beth saves the kids … but can she save herself? Too late, Beth discovers why Sonita disappeared.

A love story set against the backdrop of a luxury yacht on the Côte d’Azur, a civil war in the Eastern Bloc, and a Glasgow housing estate.

Buy Links: Amazon UK & Amazon US

REVIEW ***** (5 star rating)

Alison Brodie’s The Double has it all; from diva Sonita, the rock star, being stalked and threatened, to a gritty, realistic housing estate in Glasgow where nurse Beth is trying to make sense of her life, right through to a kidnapping followed by a luxurious adventure on a billionaire’s yacht on the Côte d’Azur. Meanwhile, Aleksandr, the captain, has had to deal with the effects of a civil war in the Eastern Bloc, and is now fighting to save many children suffering with tuberculosis as medical supplies cannot reach them and warfare is threatening their makeshift hospital site. Yes, if you’re looking for a little drama and mystery in a well-constructed romance story this is perfect for you!

The opening chapter sparks the interest of the reader immediately as we find a seemingly dark character acting secretly and wants Sonita La Cruz dead! This is a dark start for a fun, romance novel, but it captures a sense of fear and suspense from the offset, making the curious reader need to find out what becomes of both parties.

Although written in third person, the reader has an in-depth take on each main character as whole chapters are focussed on one at a time, as we discover their current situations as well as their background. My favourite character has to be Beth, partly for wanting the escape that she is able to have from her average life, and partly as she is the one that takes many risks throughout the story.

Beth is at the point in her life where, even though a mum, she is still young. Her kids are independents now, and aside from her nursing job, all she has is a selfish man in Andy, and a shabby tower-block flat. Once the initial kidnapping is realised, Beth begins to come round to the idea, choosing to go along with it. I mean, after all, when does she ever feel free; free from routine, free from work, free from Glasgow, free from Andy and his controlling ways. Surely she deserves some luxury and freedom at last. Why not pose as beautiful superstar Sonita La Cruz? Beth begins to think that maybe her dreams could come true, and she doesn’t have to feel so trapped in her life. She adapts quickly and learns how to relax, to enjoy life, rather than stressing about her work, Andy, money, etc.

“This was so different to sunbathing at home. There, she had a tiny balcony, just about big enough for four plastic stools, a bike repair box and a scrawny plant….. In the summer, between five and six in the evening, the sun would touch one corner of the balcony – high up. Desperate for sunshine, she’d stand in her knickers and bra, one foot on a stool, one foot on the railings, her hand holding onto the washing line for support….

… Now, instead of teetering on the edge of a council block in saggy grey knickers, she lay on a cushioned sun-lounger alongside a luxurious pool, on a gorgeous yacht with a champagne re-fuelling depot nearby and an army of uniformed stewards, out of sight, but close at hand, ready to be summoned by the tinkling of a little bell.” (Beth)

That said, it is also clear that Sonita La Cruz is also looking for an escapism. Although a rock star, she is not recording the style of music she favours, she is very much subjected to media attention constantly, and her real feelings lie with being charitable to those, especially children, in need – something that her partner ignores. During the course of the story, ignorant of Beth’s situation, Sonita tries to find a relaxing moment herself, as she keeps her head down low from any threat, and her busy lifestyle.

It is a certain read in particular for the summer and holiday season. And, one of the most exciting and fascinating parts of the story were, for me, the way in which it provides a largely relaxing read despite the dark drama/mystery that lies beneath the surface. I just loved imagining myself to be in Beth’s shoes sunbathing on a luxurious yacht on the Med, blue skies, blue sea, with fine dining and clothes, etc, and not worrying too much about the consequences until I’d have to.

The icing on the cake is the knowledge that Beth is quite aware, certainly as the story progresses, that it is all in the name of charity; in being able to hopefully provide many children with the treatment that they need, during an absolutely crucial time when no one else can! Mix that in with a chance of romance and it is perfect. But will Beth realise where her heart is really at before it’s too late?

If you’d like a book to transport you on a relaxing holiday, with fun, drama and romance The Double is just the one!

A copy of The Double was provided by Alison Brodie in return for a fair and honest review.

Reviewed by Caroline Barker

You can also check out Alison Brodie’s author bio, along with an excerpt of The Double here.

May 31, 2016 by Tina Williams

Release Blitz ~ Hold You Against Me, by Skye Warren (plus excerpt and $50 gift card giveaway)

Discover the dark contemporary romance of the summer from New York Times bestselling author Skye Warren. HOLD YOU AGAINST ME is a brand new standalone romance that you can’t miss!

“Hold You Against Me quite literally grabs a hold and refuses to let go until the end. Truly one of the first Mafia books I’ve read that sucked me in with a completely original and brilliant storyline that had me guessing the entire time!” – #1 NYT Bestselling Author Rachel Van Dyken

Book Blurb

Once upon a time the daughter of a mafia king fell in love with a foot soldier…

This fairy tale didn’t have a happy ending.

My sister and I barely managed to escape alive, and we’ve lived in relative hiding ever since. I’m safe now, but I can never forget the boy who gave his life to save mine.

Except there’s a chance that he’s still alive. And he’s fighting a war.

Even knowing the risks, I have to find him. I have to find some way to protect him, the way he protected me. But he isn’t the boy I left behind. He’s a violent man. A criminal. And he’s been waiting for me—the final pawn in a dark game of survival and love.

“Suspenseful and sexy, Hold You Against Me will leave you gasping for breath and wanting more. Skye Warren is the queen of dark reads and she comes through once again with Hold You Against Me. An absolute must read.” – USA Today bestselling author Rebecca Shea

Kindle ➝ http://amzn.to/1qSrcBW

iBooks ➝ http://apple.co/1Xqwtxl

Nook ➝ http://bit.ly/1X1eWNT

Google ➝ http://bit.ly/1TI8wT4

Kobo ➝ http://bit.ly/1TNyvXj

Print: http://amzn.to/22sZQjL

Excerpt from Hold You Against Me by Skye Warren

Something moves me gently, constant and rhythmic like waves. I’m warm. There’s something soft curling around my arms, wrapped inside my fists. Padding beneath my cheek that smells like home.

An unnatural darkness weighs down on me, keeping me from waking up—a demon’s whisper in my ear. You’re warm, you’re safe. Sleep.

But something is wrong.

I remember falling asleep, so suddenly, remember drinking water that I hadn’t filled. And I remember the phone call from Amy telling me that Giovanni’s alive. Impossible.

Awareness pricks my skin like a cold breeze. Wherever I am, I’m not alone.

I blink rapidly, forcing my eyes open. They adjust to the darkness quickly, taking in the tinted windows on either side and the wide leather bench curving beneath me. I’m in a car. A limo, to be exact. And it’s moving.

On the opposite side of the long space, a large body reclines. I can see the wide stance of his legs, the pale white of his shirt. A suit jacket tossed beside his hip. His face is hidden in the shadows of the vehicle.

I was raised by the head of the Las Vegas mafia, the capo. I grew up around guns and violence, so I know when a man is armed. It’s the way he holds himself, the warning shimmering around him like a dark halo.

This man is armed and extremely dangerous.

Every muscle in my body tenses. My mind still swims in thick water, because I must have been drugged. He drugged me, this faceless man. Why did he take me? It won’t be anything good, that’s for sure.

Even worse, I suspect this has something to do with my past, with my family. It’s messed up that I’d rather be taken by some random psycho. But at least then I’d have a chance of getting away.

“Who are you?” I demand, my voice hoarse from whatever drugs they gave me.

There’s a long pause, the weight of his regard as heavy as a finger trailing down my neck.

“Have I really changed that much, bella, that you don’t recognize me?”

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April 13, 2016 by Tina Williams

REVIEW ~ Love’s Misadventure (Mason Siblings Series book #1), by Cheri Champagne

Regency Historical Romance

Heat Level Spicy

Book Blurb

Miss Annabel Bradley refuses to accept life as a spinster. Her many years of pouring greedily over gothic novels has put her head in the clouds; dreaming and hoping for the love she reads about. She has always held a tendre for her best friend, Lane Mason, seventh Earl of Devon, but she does not want to jeopardize their friendship by telling him about those indecent dreams of hers. Anna, therefore, makes a life-changing decision; she is going to accept the proposal of the next suitor to ask!

Lane Mason is an average aristocrat; absorbed in life in general, and content with his status in society. Amid a frequently occurring moment of self-loathing, Lane shockingly discovers his feelings for Anna. Now armed with the awareness of his love for Anna, Lane decides to perpetrate a devilishly clever scheme. He will pay actors to abduct the two of them in order to give Anna an adventure like the ones she reads in her treasured books.

Lane’s plans go awry, however, when they are kidnapped in truth.

Review * (5 Stars)

Glorious Friends to Lovers Romance!

Cheri Champagne’s Love’s Misadventure is a true gem. The book, #1 in her Mason Siblings series, is essentially a friends to lovers romance, containing plenty of passion, misunderstandings, suspense and humour. It is a real page-turner and a delight to read.

Annabel has been in love with her best friend Lane for years, but she fears that her feelings are not reciprocated. Once more, she is already past the age when her parents hoped to see her wed and dearly wants a family of her own. Knowing that Lane only sees her as a friend, albeit a dear one, she accepts another’s proposal. Lane, finally realising that he is wildly attracted to Annabel, but believing that he can never be the man that she wants him to be, resolves to ensure that she experiences one of the adventures she so enjoys reading about in the gothic novels she favours, before she disappears into the arms of another. He arranges a fake kidnap, except the kidnap turns out to be very real indeed and puts their safety and very lives at risk!

Thrown together in captivity, the couple find that they cannot deny their feelings to one another for much longer and there are some sensual and passion filled scenes. Yet will they survive their ordeal? If they are freed, how will society and her fiancé view Annabel now that she is a fallen woman? will Lane make an honest woman of her? What connection is there between Annabel’s brother Charles and the kidnappers?

Annabel is a spunky heroine and soon rises to the challenge when faced with the adventure she so craves. Lane is not your typical hero, but really comes into his own as the plot develops and he finally realises that nothing will come between him and his one true love. There is plenty of suspense, danger, mystery and intrigue in the plot and the secondary characters are well developed. My interest was particularly piqued by Charles, Annabel’s’s brother, who will be the hero of the next book in the series.

Highly recommended to readers of Regency Romance who like a spicy read.

Reviewed by Tina Williams

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

Purchase Links

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August 9, 2015 by Tina Williams

REVIEW ~ Prisoner, by Skye Warren & Annika Martin

Dark Erotic Romance

Deliciously Dark and Dangerous

***** TOP READ!

Blurb

He seethes with raw power the first time I see him—pure menace and rippling muscles in shackles. He’s dangerous. He’s wild. He’s the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen. So I hide behind my prim glasses and my book like I always do, because I have secrets too. Then he shows up in the prison writing class I have to teach, and he blows me away with his honesty. He tells me secrets in his stories, and it’s getting harder to hide mine. I shiver when he gets too close, with only the cuffs and the bars and the guards holding him back. At night I can’t stop thinking about him in his cell.But that’s the thing about an animal in a cage—you never know when he’ll bite. He might use you to escape. He might even pull you into a forest and hold a hand over your mouth so you can’t call for the cops. He might make you come so hard, you can’t think.And you might crave him more than your next breath.

Prisoner is Book One of the Criminals & Captives series.

Buy Links: Amazon UK, Amazon US

My Review

Grayson, Grayson, Grayson – OMG what a fantastic bad boy hero you are! Prisoner, a collaboration between Skye Warren and Annika Martin is without doubt one hell of an awesome read, which pulled me in from the first page. My heart beat with mounting excitement as the tale unravelled and I could not put it down until I knew how it ended.

The chemistry between Aby and Grayson was instantaneous like a lightning bolt and I adored the raw power and dominance he extended over her even when he is a prisoner and she is the teacher in charge of him in the English class. When Aby becomes the prisoner I just loved Grayson’s need to dominate and protect her and his growing desire to make her his, even though her continuing existence jeopardises his overriding mission in life. The way Grayson slowly strips away all Aby’s armour and defences until she succumbs and confides her own dark past to him, while she slowly pieces together his own makes for a compulsive and consuming love story.

The depth of the characterisations in this novel are excellent. There is certainly a great deal more to both Aby and Grayson than what we first see on the surface. Aby appears shy and nerdy but underneath is so strong and resourceful, coping with all that he and other characters we are introduced to throw at her during her captivity. My heart bled at what made Grayson into the violent man he is. For me, the line between hero and anti-hero soon blurred, as I found myself rooting for him and a future with Aby. I adored the fact that two people who seem so opposite complement each other so well and have the potential to change each other’s lives for the better.

There are some disturbing scenes in the book, including references to child abuse and violence, gore and dubious consent. It is very fast paced and also contains some deliciously dark and steamy lovemaking, which both authors excel in.

I really enjoyed the collaboration between these two authors and am chomping at the bit to read any other books planned in this series where I hope to read about other characters featured in this novel.

I recommend this book to fellow addicts of dark romances!

Reviewed by Tina Williams

May 26, 2015 by Tina Williams

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

Contemporary Romance

Sexy and Compelling!

Book Blurb

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

Intense, Passionate and Suspenseful *****

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

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

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

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

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

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

Reviewed by Tina Williams

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

May 4, 2015 by Tina Williams

ARC REVIEW ~ To Tame the Wind (Prequel to the Agents of the Crown Trilogy & book 1 of the Donet duology), by Regan Walker

Historical Romance

Blurb

Paris 1782… AN INNOCENT IS TAKEN

All Claire Donet knew was the world inside the convent walls in Saint-Denis. She had no idea her beloved papa was a pirate. But when he seized Simon Powell’s schooner, the English privateer decided to take the one thing his enemy held most dear.… her.

A BATTLE IS JOINED

The waters between France and England roil with the clashes of Claire’s father and her captor as the last year of the American Revolution rages on the sea, spies lurk in Paris and Claire’s passion for the English captain rises.This is the prequel to the Agents of the Crown trilogy but can be read as a stand alone.

My Review *****

Swashbuckling Captor-Captive Romance

This is another breathtaking read from Regan Walker. This author excels at transporting the reader into the life and times of her characters and in creating truly memorable heroes and heroines. To Tame the Wind, a prequel to her Agents of the Crown Trilogy and the first book in the Donet Duology, is set in England and France during the time of the American War of Independence, when France was a strong ally to the colonies in its struggles against England. Once again I felt that I had stepped back into history as I experienced what life was like on-board ship and on land in eighteenth century France and England. The machinations of war throw the hero and heroine together and also threaten to tear them apart.

Captor-captive romances are one of my favourite themes in romance. This read, where the devilishly handsome and swoon worthy Captain Powell seizes Claire, the convent raised daughter of a pirate, in a desperate attempt to recover his men and ship, is a super spin on the theme. When the couple meet it is not long before sparks fly and passion ignites, yet what future for a couple whose countries are sworn enemies?

Simon’s loyalties are truly torn in this novel between his growing attraction for his spirited captive and his commitment to free his men and reclaim his ship from his enemy, Claire’s father. He also has to grapple with the scheming of the powers that be who would use Claire as a pawn, regardless of her safety. I loved how protective he is of Claire and honourable he is towards her – but don’t get me wrong there are plenty of passionate scenes between the couple and sexual tension and emotions in particular are high! How will Simon be able to hand Claire, a woman whom he craves above all others, over to is enemy and to an uncertain future? How can he not when the lives of others hang in the balance?

Claire is a real firecracker of a heroine who upon meeting Simon begins to doubt where her future lies. Will she admit her love for Simon and if so how can she possibly avoid returning to her father and the land of her birth when so much rests on her safe return? Regan Walker’s characters and plot are as usual complex and I could not second guess if and how the couple would find their HEA.

While romance is well and truly at the centre of this read I loved how Regan Walker effortlessly and seamlessly immerses the reader in the real life historical events and personalities of the day. To Tame the Wind is once again a superb read for lovers of Historical Romance from this author.

Reviewed by Tina Williams

An ARC of this book was received from the author for the purpose of a fair and honest review.

Buy Links

Amazon US Amazon UK

Connect with the Author

Regan Walker’s website

Facebook

November 5, 2014 by Tina Williams

REVIEW of WINDHAVEN, by Charlotte Boyett-Compo

A Fantastic Dark Erotic Fantasy Romance

Adult Read: Contains graphic sexual content, male rape, torture, BDSM

Book Synopsis

“Open your mouth even once, tell anyone about us, give them a name, and we’ll come for you, Sammy. There will be nowhere you can hide that we won’t find you.”Samiel Brell is being held against his will in the WindHaven Mental Hospital. His life there is a brutal nightmare from which he can not wake. The only anchor he has in this dark world is nurse Katelyn Tarnes who sees beyond the psychotic, self-destructive patient to the lost, lonely man desperately needing her help…and pleading for her love.

My Review

A Light in the Darkness

The dark erotic fantasy Windhaven, set in the future on a distant planet is a fantastic page turner and a real treat for lovers of dark erotic fantasy. A beautiful romance, where the power of love and healing does battle with unimaginable acts of depravity and evil. Indeed, the read unapologetically grapples with subject matter which includes scenes of sexual torture, enslavement of the male lead, imprisonment and physical, mental and psychological abuse.

I found that the tale is a suspenseful one, as someone is trying to silence Samiel, the hero, for good and will use means most foul to do. Although I certainly had my suspicions about who was behind the attempts on his life – I was constantly examining the motives and actions of many central characters, the book is written cleverly and in such a way that I was taken by surprise when the truth was finally revealed!

Samiel is a handsome yet tortured male and my heart immediately went out to him. His past is somewhat of a mystery, being abducted on a whim by evil people, and subjected to a life of pain and torture. His mental state is weak on account of his PTSD, manifesting as violence and self-harm and he is kept under control by a carefully orchestrated regime of drugs and restraints intended to slowly allow his recovery.

The heroine Katelyn has a strong empathy with Samiel from the outset and their attraction is mutual. She a strong character, realising early on that she is falling hard for him, a patient in a secure mental institution. Although she has the potential to be Samiel’s salvation, she is unknowingly being used in a game that others control. However, somewhere amongst all the darkness there is light and there is a satisfying HEA, but not until after evil has once again shown its hand.

There are plenty of scenes of sexual tension and erotic love making and I was on tender hooks throughout their growing relationship, as they have to deal with what is thrown at them, the shocking revelations from Samiel’s past and discover who is out to eliminate him for good.

Charlotte Boyett-Compo is one of the most imaginative and versatile authors I have had the pleasure to read and in this novel she once again delves into places most authors fear to, whilst developing and maintaining a beautiful romance. If you like tales of tortured males, strong women who are their salvation and evil that needs to be vanquished then you will love Windhaven!

Reviewed by Tina Williams

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

About the Author

Charlotte Boyett-Compo is the author of over 80 books. She writes novels that encompass science-fiction, Fantasy, Paranormal, Supernatural, Romantica, Horror, Mystery, Thriler and Post –Apocalyptic Western novels. She is the creator of the Reaper, handome and deadly Alpha male shapeshifters with tortured souls that can only be tamed by the female destined to be their mate.

Connect with the Author

http://www.windlegends.com

https://www.facebook.com/windlegends

Purchase Links

Amazon UK Amazon US

June 26, 2014 by Tina Williams

RESTORING LADY ANNA ~ by Em Taylor ~ Blog Tour and Review

Regency Historical Romance

BOOK INFORMATION

TITLE – Restoring Lady Anna
SERIES – Eversley Siblings Series
AUTHOR – Em Taylor
GENRE – Historical Regency Romance
PUBLICATION DATE – 1 May 2014
LENGTH – 55,000
COVER ARTIST – Veronica Fernandez

BOOK SYNOPSIS

When Lord James Eversley is accused of a murder he did not commit, he dresses up as his new brother-in-law’s footman and hitches a ride in their carriage out of town. When it seems they are no longer being followed he begins to relax until a minor accident causes them to stop at a shabby looking inn. As his “master” and his sister sip tea in the scruffy parlour, James comes face to face with Lady Anna, the woman who left him in the dead of night five years before and a familiar looking child.

Lady Anna has accepted her life as Mrs Johnstone, mother of four-year-old Viola, “wife” of Peter, the mentally ill former footman and land lady of a shabby inn on the Great North Road. Her plans for a love match with the handsome Lord Eversley were cruelly snatched away from her five years before. Her ruination means there is no opportunity to return to her family or the ton. When James turns up, dressed as a footman and demanding answers, Anna must decide whether to tell the truth.

James never stopped loving Anna and now he must learn what happened that fateful night that Anna left him heartbroken. With the truth out in the open, he must convince the love of his life to take a chance on him. He wants to marry her and restore her reputation among the aristocracy. But in Regency England reputations are easily lost and difficult to regain. Can Anna trust James enough to do what is right for Peter, despite his actions, her child and most importantly himself? Can James convince Anna to seek the help that Peter needs and return to the ton?

AMAZON KINDLE US – AMAZON KINDLE CA

AMAZON KINDLE UK – GOODREADS

“Why did you leave?” he asked.

“I…I… did not have a choice.”

“Were you in love with him?”

“No.” She should lie. She knew she should, but his light blue eyes seemed to bore holes into her very soul and she could not bear to hurt him further. She could not bear to have him think badly of her.

“Then I do not understand why you left. Was it… was… God dammit.” He took a large gulp of his ale and looked around before leaning close. “Was it the bedding? I know you were an innocent and it must have hurt but…”

“No.” She shook her head fervently. Could he really believe that the best night of her life had driven her from him? “That night… it was very special. You were wonderful and kind and caring. I could not have asked for a better lover the first time.”

Relief washed over his countenance before he frowned. “Then why?”

Should she tell him? Could she? “It is too complicated to explain, except to say that it was not my choice and it was not your fault.”

He pushed his long fingers through his blond curls and stared into his ale. “Is he—the footman—still alive?”

“Yes.” He looked into her eyes—the hope that had shone there moments before was gone.

“So you are married.”

“We never married.”

“You live in sin?”

“Yes. I refused to marry him—not even to give my daughter a name. I tell people I am Mrs Johnstone, but there are no legal documents and no marriage. Therefore, you can return to the ton, my lord, and tell them that Lady Anna Kingsley is a whore and has a bastard child.”

Now perhaps he would leave her alone to her miserable life and find someone who would make a proper countess when his father died. She swallowed hard, forcing back the tears. Willed herself to stay strong. She only had to stay strong until the damned ostlers could help Lord Ramsey’s horse.

“Shh! I will be returning to the ton to tell them no such thing. I wished you would tell me what actually happened, if for no other reason than to assuage my fear that it was something I did or said that drove you away. You said you have a daughter?”

“Yes. Viola. She is a pretty little thing but can be quite precocious when she wants to be. She would have made a beautiful debutante when her time came.”

“Mama. Who is this?” She turned to see Viola standing at her side and realised it had been the child who was tugging at her skirts.

****
James stared at the little girl standing next to Anna, tugging on the grey wool skirt. Blond hair, blue eyes and rosy cheeks that reminded him of Rebecca when she was small. She even had the little turn up in her nose that was identical to his sister’s. But, it could not be. This child could not be his? They had made love but once—or at least just one night. But he had not withdrawn as he knew he should. He had been too caught up in the moment—in their love. Had Anna fallen with child that one glorious night, how old would a child be? Three? No—four! Was this little girl four? He had no idea how large or small a child should be at the age of four. He did not come into contact with many children.

But he did not have to ask her age. His sight told him that Viola was his as did something else…instinct perhaps?
He schooled his features so they were unreadable. Years of training to be a gentleman, to show no outward emotion, were now paying dividends.

“This is Lord Eversley, a friend of mine.”

“Oh. Pleased to meet you Lord Evasey.” She bobbed a small curtsey, and he noted that she over extended her back leg a bit like the actors did in the theatre at the curtain call. It was very sweet. The child obviously did not meet many members of the aristocracy. Though it was just like Anna to have taught her daughter to act like a lady in preparation for meeting a viscount or even a duke.

“Very pleased to meet you too, Viola.” She smiled dazzlingly at him. It really was like being taken back in time to when Rebecca was a child.

“Mama, he’s awake. I heard him shouting.”

“I see.” She turned to James. “I need to go just now. I have things that must be attended to.” Anna stood and looked like she was about to bob a curtsey but seemed to the think better of it, probably remembering he was supposed to be a footman.

He watched her leave, Viola’s hand in hers. He had sired a daughter and all this time he never knew. He did not need Anna to tell him that Viola was his flesh and blood—he knew it with every fibre of his being. If he said it outright, would Anna lie? Could she lie about something as monumental as him having a child? Not the Anna he once knew. But she was harder now—more resilient. He saw it in her eyes. Even though he had sensed she had been on the edge of tears, he suspected Mrs Anna Johnstone did not cry very often. But he must allow Anna to tell him in her own time. There was a lot more to this than a silly lady having her head turned by a handsome footman.
Was the person who had just woken the footman? Why had Viola looked unhappy when she had to announce the footman was awake? And why was Anna the one working in the taproom?

He would find out, and he would not leave this place until he knew the whole truth and certainly he would not leave without his daughter.

My Review

Passionate and Compelling Regency

This Regency romance by Em Taylor examines some heavy issues – kidnap, mental health and social mores – in particular the expectations imposed on women by the Ton. However, 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.

Both the hero and the heroine of this novel are well developed characters – Anna is no vacuous Regency miss and neither is James a fop or wastrel and they both exhibit a high level of maturity and compassion for others in addressing the predicament they find themselves in. That the couple are still deeply enamoured with each other is beyond doubt and there are many sizzling love-making scenes. Anna is certainly a woman who knows what she wants and is not afraid to give James what he needs and James finds it difficult to restrain himself.

The central conflict however remains – how can Anna be persuaded to resume her place in society, when she has not only been disgraced, living with a man out of wedlock, but also having birthed an illegitimate child? Her fears are not just for herself but also for the potential impact on her daughter and James. The issue of Peter’s future and his mother Agnes, with whom she and her daughter have forged a strong bond, is also problematic.

I understood Anna’s dilemma and applauded James’ patience in addressing her concerns. The scenes where the author depicts James’ conflicting emotions: surprise; relief; joy; anger; frustration and passion, are very well done. Will Anna consent to be his wife and return to society or will she find it impossible to contemplate despite her love for James? Also if she does resume her rightful place as an Earl’s daughter will James be able to deal with any fallout?

I enjoyed how the author contrasts the life Anna was thrust into as an ordinary member of Regency society and the life of the aristocracy. I particularly liked how it gave the hero a deeper insight into those less fortunate than himself. The depiction of Peter’s mental illness and how the hero and heroine react to it is also enlightening and heartrending

All in all Restoring Lady Anna is a sexy, passionate and thought -provoking novel, which provides a fascinating perspective on Regency society. I recommend it to romance readers in general, particularly those who enjoy Regency romances or reads where issues affecting women’s role in society are under the spotlight.

Reviewed by Tina Williams

A copy of this novel was provided by the author for the purpose of a fair and honest review.