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BOOK BLITZ – Valkyrie by Kitty Thomas

Valkyrie by: Kitty Thomas

Dark-ish Standalone/Norse Gods

Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, forced proximity, fated mates, strong heroine, growly alpha male, shifters, berserkers, witches, dark elements

Blurb

ODIN:

On the day I met the witch, she prophesied my death.

She said it was fate and couldn’t be changed.

I’ve gathered my warriors. I’ve laid my traps. I’ve moved my pieces across the board.

She is the piece that unlocks everything, I know she is.

And she’s wrong. Everything can be changed.

FREYJA:

A powerful god seeks to destroy my people unless I go live with him.

“You don’t have to marry him. You don’t even have to sleep with him. He just needs a witch.”

I’ve been told this multiple times, but I don’t trust this man.

He’s keeping something very important from me… and he’s such a charmer.

I may allow him into my bed, but I can never let him into my heart.

NOTE: This is a standalone.

TEASER

“I want to talk about the mark,” I say, skimming right past all of that. If he thinks he can distract me or pacify me with ice cream and cherries like a small child, he’s crazy.

“We don’t need to talk about it. It doesn’t concern you,” Odin says.

My spoon makes a loud clanking sound against the bowl. “Excuse me, but a glowing magical handprint on my throat one hundred percent does concern me.”

“No it doesn’t. You don’t have to worry about it. It’ll go away on its own.”

“I thought you said it couldn’t be undone and that it’s beyond you,” I say, mocking his overly serious tone of only moments ago.

“It can’t be undone and it is beyond me. I have no control over that mark, but I do know it will fade on its own as long as no further steps are taken.”

“But what does it mean? And steps for what?” He’s not going to slither off the hook that easily.

“I have control of the berserker. You don’t have to worry.”

“The berserker? Is that the name of that thing I saw you shift into?”

He levels me with a hard, serious look. “You haven’t met the berserker.”

“Oh Odin, teach me to be scary like you,” I singsong.

“Little girl, you have no idea the fire you play with.”

“I am fire.”

He considers me for a moment and nods. “I think that’s a fair description. You’re also a valkyrie. And it’s clear you didn’t know that before today.”

“What’s a valkyrie? Or does that not concern me, either?”

He just stares at me for a long time. Only this time it’s not lust, it’s a power move. I bet all his little underlings look away. I bet he thinks I’m about to look away. I don’t. I just hold his gaze.

“Can you tell me the rules? Is blinking allowed or do I lose if I blink?”

“You are the most infuriating…”

“I don’t have to be here. You could have chosen to leave the Vanir alone. I don’t even know why I’m here. What do you need me for, Odin? Besides the obvious.”

The one thing I’ve been able to ascertain that he wants from me is the same thing every man wants from me, and Odin hasn’t disguised his desire to have me in his bed.

He leans closer, speaking each word slowly, clearly, and precisely as if I need this all spelled out again. “You signed a contract… with your blood… and if you think I’m letting you out of it or that you can annoy me to death…”

“I may have to stay in Asgard with you, but I don’t have to stay at this table. And since dinner is over and you seem to have no intention of telling me anything worth hearing, I’ll take my leave.”

I stand and turn to go, but his hand wraps around my wrist, stopping me. Just this simple touch sends a harsh bolt of desire spiraling through me.

His voice is low and calm when he speaks. “The mark is a partial mating claim. My berserker thinks you’re his fated mate.”

I whirl back around at this news. “I’m sorry… what? Oh, no, absolutely not… I am not going to be mated to… that thing… or to you for that matter.”

“That’s right. You’re not. I have control of the berserker. I don’t know how long it will take for the mark to fade but it will fade if the mating remains incomplete. I’ve never marked anyone, but with most berserkers it’s two or three weeks.”

I realize he’s still holding my wrist, his thumb softly stroking the back of my hand.

“Why does the berserker think I’m his mate?”

“Because you’re a valkyrie.”

“I’m not going to ask you again what a valkyrie is.” I’m tired of his childish games.

He sighs. “Valkyries work for me. They collect the bravest fallen warriors in the human world for an army I’m building.”

“The army the Vanir fought?”

“There were a few berserkers in that fight, but no, it’s a different army, for a different purpose.”

He’s still stroking the back of my hand. I’m not even sure if he realizes he’s doing it. But I can think of nothing else.

“I don’t work for you,” I say.

“Oh really? You signed a contract… in blood…”

He seems prepared to pull this speech out at my every protest. “I meant, in my capacity as a valkyrie… I don’t exist to serve you.” I don’t even know that I believe his valkyrie line. And it does sound like a line, probably just more of his seduction tactics.

He chuckles. “I’ve never met a valkyrie that was also a goddess. Maybe you’re supposed to lead the valkyries, the way I command the berserkers.”

“I think you should let go of me, now,” I say, holding his gaze.

He jerks his hand away as if burned. His shocked expression tells me he didn’t even realize he was stroking me like that for so long.

“Sure, you’ve got control of the berserker. No need to worry.”

BLITZ WIDE GIVEAWAY (INT)

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AUTHOR BIO

KITTY THOMAS writes dark stories that play with power and have unconventional HEAs. She began publishing in early 2010 with her bestselling COMFORT FOOD and is considered one of the original authors of the dark romance subgenre.

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October 11, 2017 by Tina Williams

ARC REVIEW ~ The Spymaster’s Redeemer (Dreda’s Men), by Alexie Bolton

#historical #romance

Blurb

Two people on opposite sides of a civil war. Frances Dreda is an officer in the Taylian State Security Bureau who enforces obedience to the law by the deterrent of prison and the noose. He investigates the activities of the outspoken and intellectual Lady Felea Whelani who he suspects aids the rebels by codebreaking and feeding and educating their children.

They should be mortal enemies but are intrigued by each other but he mistrusts women and Felea is repulsed by his detachment and his severity. Can love overcome cultural differences and prejudice? Can Felea humanise this officer?

My Review ~ 4 and a half stars

Entertaining and Compulsive

Alexie Bolton’s The Spymaster’s Redeemer, the author’s first novel, kept me entertained from beginning to end. It is a sweeping historical romance with complex characters and a well developed plot.

The central story is that of the relationship between the two protagonists – the ‘Spymaster’ of the title Frances Dreda, and Lady Felea, the daughter of an academic suspected of supporting enemies of the Emperor of Taylia, a fictional country near the Austria- Hungary border. There is also much emphasis on the politics and power play between different individuals and factions. The push and pull between the couple also highlight the differing expectations put on men and women. I found the result to be a thoroughly compulsive read as the author skilfully weaves these different threads together.

I enjoyed both the sexual tension and the heated exchanges between Dreda and Felea which begin as soon as their paths cross. Dreda is investigating her father’s potential guilt, a crime punishable by death and as his daughter Felea herself is under suspicion. Dreda takes an uncharacteristic personal interest in the case as something about the young woman intrigues him, taking it on himself to establish the extent of her guilt or innocence. As for Felea, she fears for her own fate and that of her father and wants rid of this odious man who is an unwelcome threat to her sanity and wellbeing! I will not divulge how the plot develops, suffice to say that the story is a complex one and is full of unexpected twists with plenty of action, suspense and romance.

Of particular merit is the good job the author does in developing both Dreda’s and Felea’s characters. I found Dreda to be a fascinating individual who attracts and repels at the same time. As the Emperor’s right hand man, he is cold and calculating, a misogynist who uses women for his own ends and a master manipulator. Felea blindsides him not only with her exuberance and apparent innocence but also with her intelligence. I enjoyed how she gets under his skin and challenges his preconceptions. For her part she is an accomplished individual due to the freedoms given to her by her academic father and loathes the thought of being controlled by a man. Although they are opposites in many respects, they are well matched and I enjoyed how their relationship develops given the obstacles in their way, not least their own pride and preconceptions.

It is an impressive first novel by the author and I am looking forward to reading more of her work.

Reviewed by Tina Williams

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

Purchase Links

Amazon UK

Amazon US

Connect with the Author

https://www.facebook.com/The-Spymasters-Redeemer-292324974543422/

March 14, 2016 by Tina Williams

REVIEW – Boarded, by Annie Nicholas

#scifi #romance #aliens

A love found in the depths of space…

I absolutely LOVED this novella from Annie Nicholas. Having really enjoyed the author’s vampire romance BAIT (The Angler book 1) , which incidentally is currently FREE on Amazon, I downloaded Boarded, as I was in the mood for a bit of alien lovin’. What can be better on a cold, damp and grey day in the UK than to escape to the stars? Scroll down to read the blurb and my review. Tina ❤

Book Blurb

Assigned as an interpreter to a mysterious alien race, Liaison Sadie Beckit crosses multiple star systems to the remote Cyngi home world on an old space freighter. Knowledge is essential when dealing with aliens. A misspoken word or a careless gesture could lead to wars so liaisons are necessary to keep the peace, but Sadie is kept in the dark about her new employer. This mysterious species has chosen to withhold most of their culture and language information.

All she’s told is to accompany Ambassdor Nual back to Central Station. Sounds easy enough, but the lawless void of space holds many dangers.

My Review

Otherwordly Sci-Fi Romance

**** Four Stars

I just loved how this read transported me into another place, across the stars to realms created by the author’s imagination. This novella is a sexy, fast-paced read and has some real nail-biting moments!

Sadie, the heroine takes her job as a Liaison very seriously and is adept at maintaining a professional attitude. That is until she encounters the sexy Ambassador Nual from the mysterious race of Cyngi. Little is known about the race and Sadie is left well and truly in the dark when Nual not only refuses to share essential cultural information on his race and their customs, which Sadie requires to carry out her job and protect him, but appears to make his attraction to her clear from the start…..

I adored how this normally cool and collected female is taken off guard by the attraction she feels for Nual and his actions. Sadie is not sure whether his highly flirtatious and attentive acts are how his race treats all females or whether his attraction is reserved for alone. This made for a number of fun, sexy and sensual scenes and I enjoyed the verbal sparing between them.

Nual is a great romantic lead and I loved how he courts Sadie and how he is so protective of her, even though she can more than hold her own when danger strikes. The galaxy is a dangerous place and the couple and the other occupants of the space craft have to fight for their survival before the story reaches its denouement. Annie Nicholas does a great job of describing the different species featured in the read and how they interact.

A super novella, recommended for fans of sci-fi romance and romance fans in general.

Reviewed by Tina Williams

Purchase Links

Amazon UK Amazon US

Connect with the Author

http://annienicholas.webs.com/

https://www.facebook.com/authorannienicholas/

https://twitter.com/annienicholas

July 3, 2015 by Tina Williams

REVIEW ~ Her Heart’s Surrender, by Allison Merritt

Sensual Viking Romance

Book Blurb

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

My Review

A Powerful Enemies to Lovers Romance *****

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

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

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

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

Reviewed by Tina Williams

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

Purchase Links

Amazon UK Amazon US

Connect with the Author

https://twitter.com/Allison_Merritt

https://www.facebook.com/allisonmwrites?fref=ts

http://havenovelwilledit.blogspot.co.uk/

May 31, 2015 by Tina Williams

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

Erotic Paranormal Romance

Adult/18+ Read

A woman seeking answers…

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

A man searching for treasure…

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

A discovery that will change everything…

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

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

Excerpt (Adult/18+)

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

Hungry. Intense. Primal.

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

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

Wind? What wind?

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

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

“Rune?”

No answer.

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

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

He didn’t respond.

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

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

“Who was the male you were talking to?”

“Sam. He’s—”

“Is he your lover?”

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

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

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

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

“Share me? What are you talking about?”

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

Oh. Dear. God.

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

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

“Don’t I get a say in this?”

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

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

Purchase Links

Amazon ARe KOBO

For more links, visit Nancy’s website.

Connect with Nancy…

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A little about Nancy…

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

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

My Review FIVE STARS! *****

Sizzling and Emotional!

Erotic Paranormal Romance (18+/Adult Read)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

May 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

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April 11, 2015 by Tina Williams

REVIEW ~ Lady Harriet’s Unusual Reward, by Em Taylor

Sensual Regency Romance

Book Blurb

Lady Harriet Weatherby is at the end of her tether. Her brother, the Earl of Oldbeck is running amok. That would not normally be her problem, but the ton consider the earl to be an imbecile. Since her father died, he has had no one to guide him and he will no longer listen to Harriet. And now that Mary the kitchen maid is carrying his child, Harriet sees no other option but to marry. And there is only one man for the job.

Two years ago Lord Stephen Charville, a widower and second son of a duke, promised Lady Harriet that he would do her any favour she asked him as thanks for saving his daughters life when she nearly drowned. He did not expect her to turn up at his townhouse and ask him to marry her and set an example to her brother. There is nothing wrong with Lady Harriet and he’s not averse to helping out her brother, he just has no inclinations to marry again. And for the record, he’s no tragic hero, pining away for his lost love. The problem is that Harriet begins to burrow her way into his affections.

When Lord Stephen offers without marriage to help the earl to learn the ways of the world, Harriet is still determined that the only way to do the job properly is for them to marry but she agrees to do it Lord Stephen’s way. No one is more surprised than Harriet when she begins to have feelings for the dissolute second son or when he begins to ignite passions in her she’d never dreamed existed, all the while trying to keep her errant brother out of trouble and way from scandal.

My Review *****

Riotous and Entertaining

Em Taylor’s Regency Romances are like a breath of fresh air as her heroes and heroines are always such entertaining characters, and Lady Harriet’s Unusual Reward is no exception. In it Lady Harriet, the sassy heroine, requests a VERY unusual reward from the swoon worthy widower Lord Stephen, in this humorous, heart-warming and sensual read.

I was intrigued by the title from the off, even more so when I read the blurb and found that the heroine Harriet actually asks the hero Stephen to marry her, which is, as the title suggests, an uncommon occurrence! Harriet is in dire need of a man’s help in managing her brother who has learning difficulties. His antics are getting more and more out of hand and his latest escapade has succeeded in him making the kitchen maid pregnant. I should explain that Stephen committed himself to granting Harriet any favour she desires after she saved the life of his daughter. I just loved the fact that the favour she requested was his hand in marriage, which the gentleman concerned did not expect!

I liked Harriet. She is extremely forthright and very capable, a sassy heroine who is dedicated to protecting her brother and enabling him to live his life to the full, which I found heartening.

Stephen is a man any woman would love to call their own. He is honourable, a good sport, and very attractive, with a devilish sense of humour. He empathises with Harriet’s situation from the off and does his utmost to instruct her brother in the ways of the ton, in some highly diverting passages.

I loved how the relationship between Harriet and Stephen develops, particularly how their mutual attraction and respect grow over time. Their lovemaking scenes are highly romantic and sensual. I also found the scenes between William, Harriet’s brother and Mary to be loving and extremely passionate. The contrast between their antics and the more decorous (albeit passionate) relationship between Harriet and Stephen was particularly entertaining!

Although first and foremost a sensual romance, I also found the tale to be a great comedy of manners and an examination of how learning difficulties were viewed in the period.

Lady Harriet’s Unusual Reward is a fast-paced, sensual read with extremely diverting characters and plot, which I recommend to lovers of Regency Romance.

Reviewed by Tina Williams

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

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January 30, 2015 by Tina Williams

Concealment, by Scarlet Wolfe REVIEW AND TOUR (includes excerpts and giveaway)

This novel ends in a cliffhanger and is for a mature audience due to harsh language and descriptive sexual scenes.

Concealment by Scarlet Wolfe

Blog Tour

Hosted by Everything Marie Tours

Book Description

Publication Date: January 23, 2015

Pageflex Persona [document: PRS0000038_00057]

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

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Excerpt

Adrian’s POV:

“I’m Adrian Cassano, the owner of this hotel and casino. I was quite impressed with your moves, Ms. Victoria Stuart,” I say with a smirk.

“It’s Vicky, sir, and how did you see that already? I mean–thank you.”

“Can you explain what transpired?”

“He grabbed my ass, which I would’ve excused, but he refused to move his hand afterward, so I had to do it for him.”

I eye her intently. That wasn’t exactly the response I expected. “So, you’re OK with random men grabbing your ass?”

She scowls. “No, but for the sake of my job, I was willing to let it slide once.” She’s giving me attitude, and damn, she’s gorgeous. This will be more enjoyable than I anticipated.

“I see.” Staring into her striking, green eyes for several seconds, I find she’s determined to hold my gaze.

“I think it would be best to move you to an environment where the cliental will not be touching you without your permission. Although the asshole deserved it, I don’t need a lawsuit, and he would not be the last to grab your ass.”

She continues to scowl. At least her attitude suits her day job. Yes, I believe I’m going to enjoy every second of my time with Victoria. She will be easy to torment since she likely feels she has to keep her mouth shut around me. I have a suspicion that is not something she’s used to doing. I’m sure she doesn’t want to lose this job and blow her case. The investigation I’m fully aware of.

Excerpt #2

Victoria’s POV:

Reaching down, I zip up my black thigh high boot. I’d never tell my detective partner, Reggie, but I feel badass and sexy as the zipper tightens the shiny, black patent leather against my toned leg.

“It appears his mother, Denise, has been in and out of mental facilities his entire life,” I say. “His father, Alvin Cassano, died in the Twin Towers during 9/11. Adrian, his three brothers, and one sister were left with a hefty insurance policy, and he enlisted in the Marines after.”

“I wouldn’t have guessed Adrian Cassano to be ex-military,” Reggie says.

“Once discharged, he and his brothers moved to Vegas and built the hotel and casino.”

“Be careful, Victoria.” Reggie is leaning back against my bedroom door, conveying a stern look.

“Seriously? What is your deal over this job?” I ask as I zip up my second boot.

“Have you forgotten we’re partners? I can’t be in there with you, and it’s making me crazy.”

“I’m a cop. I earned this detective job because of my ability since they sure as hell don’t give it to women otherwise. I can take care of myself.”

He slides his hand through his curly, dark hair. “That’s what worries me. You think you’re invincible.”

Meet the Cast

About the Author

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

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Giveaway

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My Review *****

Sexy and Suspenseful

Wow, what a sexy read! No one is what they appear to be in this fast-paced erotic romantic suspense: secrets are commonplace; passion sizzles and the stakes are high.

The heroine Victoria, a Police Officer, gets a job as a server at the Cassano hotel and casino. Her aim is to find evidence of criminal activity which she suspects plays a major role in the brothers’ business empire. What she didn’t bank on was being singled out by the boss, the sexy Adrian, and finding herself falling for him.

I just lurved the relationship between this couple! Adrian, an uber alpha male, breaks all the rules to seduce her, at first kidding himself that it is good practice to keep his enemy close, but then finding that he is developing ever stronger feelings for her as he gets to know her. He is wildly attracted to Victoria’s beauty, brains and bravado and wants to keep her safe. Adrian is torn between wanting to protect his family business and wanting to possess Victoria body and soul, the very woman who represents a significant threat to his activities.

Yet how far can a relationship go between a cop and a man who she suspects is part of an extensive crime ring? The scenes between Adrian and Victoria positively sizzle off the page and they are well matched and believable. The supporting characters too are all well-defined and I am looking forward o finding out more about them as the series progresses, especially the other Cassano brothers who also ooze major smex appeal!

When we first meet Victoria I was not sure that I would find her a likable heroine as she comes over as very kick ass. However, a few more pages into the story and I began to find out more about her realising that she hides a lot behind her hard exterior and that there is a lot more to her. Adrian in particular plays a key role in stripping her of her armour as he is keen to find the true woman underneath. He is fully aware that she is a cop and wonders if and when she will admit this fact to him. Victoria is attracted to Adrian unlike any other man yet can she trust him and is he the criminal she believed him to be?

The book ends in a cliff-hanger, which left me itching to read the next instalment. I recommend Concealment to readers who enjoy a sexy and suspenseful adult read with a drop-dead gorgeous alpha male who is torn between the girl of his dreams and the high stake activities of his family business.

Reviewed by Tina Williams

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

January 23, 2015 by Tina Williams

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

Publication Date: January 23, 2015

Book Description

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

Purchase Links

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Goodreads

18+ Excerpt: Victoria’s POV:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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