ARC Book #Review: The Girl in 6E (Deanna Madden # 1) by A. R Torre'

Book Title: The Girl In 6E (Deanna Madden # 1)
Author:  A.R. Torre' |Website| Facebook| Instagram

Publisher: Orion
Genre: Horror/ Thriller/ Mystery
Series/Standalone: Book 1
Format: Trade Paperback 

Cost: $9.99

Pages: 352

How I got it: ARC from BEA 2013

Purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Publisher
Publication Date: April 2013
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Synopsis:

I haven't touched a human in three years. That seems like it would be a difficult task, but it's not. Not anymore, thanks to the internet.

I am, quite possibly, the most popular recluse ever. Not many shut-ins have a 200-member fan club, a bank account in the seven-figure range, and hundreds of men lining up to pay for undivided attention.

They get satisfaction, I get a distraction. Their secret desires are nothing compared to why I hide... my lust for blood, my love of death.

Taking their money is easy. Keeping all these secrets... one is bound to escape.

What if you hid yourself away because all you could think of was killing? And what if one girl's life was depending on you venturing into society?

Enter a world of lies, thrills, fears, and all desires, in this original thriller from A. R. Torre.

This one took me a while to read because I wasn't originally int he mood for a thriller, I put it down then eventually picked it up and dived right back in. I know I love Alexandra's writing so I knew once I was ready I would be able to dive in and enjoy it. I will say that at the beginning while the story is being set up Deanna repeated a lot of her ideas about herself and this bogged the story a little. 

This story is being marketed * at least by those who loved it and recommend it* as for fans of Dexter and since I've never seen that show I wasn't sure how I would handle it I enjoyed it. I didn't understand why she believed what she did when she only thought about it. The way she was hyping it up you would have thought she's been out her slaying all day but nope. Having survived a nightmare from her childhood and believing herself to be like the killer due to her fascination with it she's locked herself away and even seeks therapy but doesn't share all the information she really needs to so she can get all the help she really needs.  

As the story progresses we learn more about Deanna who had put herself in self-imposed exile and then began working as a cam girl in hopes of earning an income. She wanted to occupy herself away from society and yet she didn't move into the middle of nowhere she lived in a building with people and paid others through their vices to help control herself. She's got a bit of a crush on the UPS man but she knows nothing can come of it.  She begins to get uneasy about a client (rightfully so) and what they had as their fantasy and when she found out a child is missing she decides to leave the apartment for the first time in years. It doesn't go as planned as she hasn't counted that she's stronger in her mind than in real life and when she challenges a the UPS guy for his truck he's able to subdue her fairly quickly.   *I cackled so hard, cause not so big and bad now huh??* Deanna is a pretty likable character once you begin to really get to know her. I understood her reasoning for not going to the cops right away and even when she does they don't take her seriously  *because duh* so she decides to take matters into her own hands. 

I absolutely loved what happened when she went to 'rescue' that little girl. Fantasy and reality are two different things and just because you believe something about yourself doesn't make it real.  I think she needs a few good hours with a therapist and to be genuine with them and cut the shyt.   I understand her belief that her ideation could be considered odd and concerning from a law enforcement perspective if she had an actual target in mind, which she doesn't.  Deanna is made to face some home truths about herself and her situation. While the mystery timeline is going on, we also have the UPS driver who actually has a fascination with her because he's been delivering for years and never gets to see her and when he does he realizes she's an even bigger mystery than he thought.  He's fascinated and his family is intrigued by his obsession with the mystery woman.  I thought they were pretty interesting together. Deanna is an intriguing character and I just know there are going to be repercussions from her actions in this book and I can't wait to see it all shakedown. 

This isn't a romance and beyond her job as a cam girl there isn't any sex, and yet it kept me intrigued. The slow revelations of who Deanna is and what shaped her to be this woman and wondering how it's all going to come out. Especially now that she has this attraction to the UPS guy, how will she handle her obsession?? 

I'm definitely going to be reading the rest of the series.
Happy Reading my loves,

 ★★★★☆

Series In Order

• The Girl In 6E
• Do Not Disturb # 2
• If You Dare # 3

RECOMMENDATIONS

• Blindfolded Innocence

Happy Reading my loves, 

Book #Review: To Sin With A Viking (Forbidden Vikings 1) by Michelle Willingham .@michellewilling .@harlequinbooks

Book Title: To Sin With A Viking (Forbidden Viking 1)
Author:  Michelle Willingham |Website| Twitter| Facebook|

Publisher: Harlequin Historical
Genre: Historical Romance
Series/Standalone: Series Book 1
Format: Mass Market Paperback

Cost: $6.50

Pages: 288

How I got it: BEA 2013

Purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Publisher
Publication Date: August 2013
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Synopsis:

Playing With Fire! Caragh Ó Brannon defended herself bravely when the enemy landed—only, now she finds herself alone with one very angry Viking… Styr Hardrata sailed to Ireland intending to trade, never expecting to find himself held captive in chains by a beautiful Irish maiden. The fiercely handsome warrior both terrifies and allures Caragh, but he is forbidden territory. He is the enemy…and he is married. Yet Styr harbors a secret that just might set them both free… Forbidden Vikings Resist them if you can!

Sooo about that cover though?? Yeah no, I'm so terrified, and not at all turned on, but the rest of the story?? Yeah liking it, I've got the second book and I can't wait to dive in and finish this series.

I found the idea of what happens when an arranged marriage doesn't work, and was totally on board to see how Michelle would work a way to give these two characters the love they needed.  Would they come back together I was intrigued by the backstory of how Michelle came to write this and wanted to read as son as I got the book in my hand, I'm looking forward to reading Ragnar's story only because I love his name,

Styr wanted to save his marriage because well everything was going wrong, and for such a crazy reason.  I understood his wife Elena's struggle, she didn't want to fail her husband, and of course the families were also counting on her, but along the way she did what so many other women did wrong, she forgot that this is about her and her husband as well, not just about the future.  And Styr didn't help by letting her know he wanted her for her, and not just because their marriage had been arranged.

As the story progressed and we got to see both Styr and Caragh's life, and how they intersected, I was really intrigued on how he was going to walk the line without breaking it.  There were some seriously close times not always because they wanted to but because circumstances conspired against them and even a few where Caragh's decision made it clear that Styr wasn't her only choice.  I loved Caragh because once she realized Styr's heart wasn't hers to have she tried hard to maintain a distance.  I found myself kinda hoping that things would work out for them and when we got to the crux of the problem, I totally loved the ending we were being given.

I will say after watching Vikings on tv, I'm not sure they would have the same sense of 'honor' that Styr had, it wouldn't be considered dishonoring your wife. Personally I think having emotional attachments are worse than physical cheating, one you never have to do again, but the other?? Your emotions are involved, I'm going to lose no matter what.

I loved the story we were given, it was sweet, haunting at times and still a story that kept me intrigued and turning the pages.

★★★1/2☆☆

Happy Reading

Book #Review: Bachelor Unclaimed by Brenda Jackson | Bewitching Bibliophile

Book Title: Bachelor Unclaimed (Bachelors In Demand)
Author:  Brenda Jackson |Website| Twitter| Facebook|

Publisher: Harlequin Kimani Romance
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Series/Standalone: Series Book 4
Format: ebook, Mass Market

Cost: $3.99, $6.25

Pages: 224

How I got it: NetGalley

Purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Publisher
Publication Date: Jan 2013
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Synopsis:

Are his playboy days over for good? In the wake of political defeat, former mayoral candidate Ainsley St. James does something totally out of character-she has a one-night stand with a seductive stranger. Never expecting to see him again, she accepts a job covering a breaking story in Hilton Head, South Carolina...only to discover that the island's most desirable recluse is the lover she has yet to forget. Winston Coltrane can't get that incredible night-or the sexy, sophisticated beauty-out of his mind. The marine biologist is developing a secret formula that could be a major medical breakthrough. But there's something Winston is keeping from Ainsley: his feelings for her have grown beyond the bedroom. Kiss by breathtaking kiss, Ainsley is transforming his oceanside sanctuary into a sensual retreat. Will they be able to turn a passionate fling into forever in each other's arms?

I always enjoy Brenda's writing and this one was of course another great addition to the read pile.  I did take away a star because of some of the thoughts the male protagonist had; they were kinda creepy and I really didn't feel like they went along with the characterization she had been giving us up until that point.  Other than that creepy moment, this story was a wonderful quick romantic, sensual read that I gobbled up really quickly, because I didn't want to leave until I saw how it all panned out.

I found the characters to be awesome,  Brenda gave us a believable story that was steamy hot and they just clicked together so well.  I loved that the characters believed that they were here for one story and totally walked away with something different.

I loved how spunky and tenacious Ainsley was and it's so funky that her town was so stupid.  I really liked Ainsley because she reminded me of me, she was a modern, fun, funky and happy woman. I want to meet the woman who decided doing what she did to Ainsley was smart or even really the way other women should be done  and just pop her in the mouth.  Ainsley was my favorite character because she didn't let Winston intimidate her and I loved how she handled him once they confronted the elephant in the room.

" Love didn't hurt you, someone who claimed to love you did" I say this on facebook the other day and this was perfect for the book. I just loved it.  This is a lesson both Winston and his cousin Virgil need to learn,. I can't wait to read the other god-brothers stories and enjoy the fullness of their fall.  I especially want to read Z's and Virgils' tales.

I really loved that Brenda dropped some serious history within the story.  Especially about the Civil War, Robert Small, the Gullah people and islands, and Mitchellville.  It all so awesome to read a story that discusses my history without making it a trite piece or somehow lessening the impact and the power of the tale. Also I totally love the little tidbits about marine biology that she interspersed within the story.

I loved that Winston's a cook, low country boil indeed, yes sir, I need the universe to send me one of these!!  Winston was a good character to read, he was educated, fun, funny and so smart, but yet, he wasn't as smart as he thought.

A definite must read and going on my faves of 2014 because it was humorous and sensual and I love Ainsley she deserves all the happiness. I can't wait to read the other stories. Brenda sure knows how to spin a tale . Now I want to go down south again.

 ★★★★☆

I hope you enjoy Ainsley and Winston as much as I did.  Happy Reading

YA Book Review: Dare You To ( Pushing The Limits 2)

Book Title: Dare You To (Pushing The Limits 2)
Author: Katie McGarry |Website| Twitter| Facebook|

Publisher: Harlequin Teen
Genre: YA Fiction
Series/Standalone: Series
Format: Paperback

Cost: $17.99

Pages: 480

How I got it: Book Expo America 2013

Purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Publisher
Publication Date: June 2013
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Synopsis:

"I dare you..." If anyone knew the truth about Beth Risk's home life, they'd send her mother to jail and seventeen-year-old Beth who knows where. So she protects her mom at all costs. Until the day her uncle swoops in and forces Beth to choose between her mom's freedom and her own happiness. That's how Beth finds herself living with an aunt who doesn't want her and going to a school that doesn't understand her. At all. Except for the one guy who shouldn't get her, but does.... Ryan Stone is the town golden boy, a popular baseball star jock-with secrets he can't tell anyone. Not even the friends he shares everything with, including the constant dares to do crazy things. The craziest? Asking out the Skater girl who couldn't be less interested in him. But what begins as a dare becomes an intense attraction neither Ryan nor Beth expected. Suddenly, the boy with the flawless image risks his dreams-and his life-for the girl he loves, and the girl who won't let anyone get too close is daring herself to want it all...

Book two and this one was of course another marathon read. I don't know why I doubt Katie, but I was hesitant to pick this one up after reading Pushing because I was scared it wouldn't be as good.  And while Beth can't replace Echo, and Ryan isn't anywhere near as awesome as Noah I still loved this story.

We get to see deeper into Beth and why she was constantly running in Pushing. We see her true home life and why and how it went down hill. Poor Beth is that kid who just desperately wants to be loved so much she was willing to do whatever her mother needed her to do. She didn't want to leave her mother behind even though everyone else was desperately trying to save her.  Beth was drowning but didn't want to see it.

Having read books about the psychology of children of addicts I know that Beth fits the diagnosis to a T, but it was still heartbreaking to read.  I kept getting angry with her and on her behalf when certain people would tell her that her mother was her responsibility.  Like no Beth is a child and your sister is a grown woman why don't you help her??  Especially after what happened in Pushing the Limits, I wouldn't have allowed Beth anywhere near her mother  The solution to Beth's issues was so easy but no one wanted to be the one to do it.

Even though she's been given a new chance at life, Beth believes she's betraying her family and her friends by being happy. Ryan oh man Ryan is the golden boy whose family life looks great on the outside but has gone nuclear on the inside.  I loved that they both needed each other and that they worked at becoming a couple even with Beth's crushing issues. I loved seeing Noah & Echo again, meeting Chris and Lacy, Logan with his dare devil self and of course learning so much more about Isaiah. I can't wait to read more from the gang especially Logan's story, because that should be interesting to say the least.

I do love this book, but I felt like someone should have been more responsible and not put Beth in the position she was in; someone should have done more for her. Although when people like her Uncle tried to do more for her, she kept running from it. I get that her friends couldn't do it, but really everybody was being an enabler.  Beth like most kids can only see what's in front of her and was so focused on taking care of her mom she never saw the bigger picture, she never saw the fault within her parent.  Everyone was trying to keep her from drowning and Beth was hell bent on swimming out further.  I get it, but this annoyed me so much, like you have a chance at a better life, but you keep coming back, you keep running back to the cycle of abuse.   I loved that Ryan was able to point out to Beth what her 'normal' was and it totally freaked her out.Beth dominated the story, and even though we know Ryan's life wasn't exactly great, she definitely held down a good majority of the story.

Ryan's home life wasn't what the town thought it was, it imploded a long time ago but no one knows because his parents refuse to seek help or to even discuss it. His family was more concerned with image than with reality and I totally get why Ryan was being spun around.   His brother's announcement turned his whole world upside down and now he's trying to figure out where he fits in. Does he want the dream he's always wanted, the one that would make his family happy or does he want to go to college and make himself happy.  I loved the few glimpses we have of his brother and how clearly their relationship made Ryan feel centered and made their home life great.  His father was an overbearing asshat, who was attempting to live his dreams through his children.

Although it annoyed me, Beth's characteristics fit with the psychology of children of addicts and I thought Katie was wonderful for writing such a heart wrenching story.  I loved how messy and real the story was, how each persons life helped to build up the characters and also how some of the relationships held them down. It was a raw, and realistic look at modern life and I loved it immensely.

I will confess that I met Katie McGarry at BEA 2013 and I had no idea how wonderful her writing was. I know a lot of bloggers were fangirling over her being in the Harlequin booth and so I snagged a copy. Best Decision Ever!!

I love that she has included a soundtrack to the book and I will be making a playlist along with other songs I thought of will reading the story.  The playlist will be under the Books and Music Tab and on my Youtube channel under Playlists.
 ★★★★☆

I highly recommend the series and this book. Just don't start reading right before bed.  There are several others set to come out and I can't wait to read them!!!!
Happy Reading

YA ARC Book #Review: Wild Cards by Simone Elkeles

Book Title: Wild Cards (Book 1)
Author: Simone Elkeles  |Website| Twitter| Facebook|

Publisher: Walker ( Bloomsbury)
Genre: YA/New Adult Romance
Series/Standalone: Series
Format: Hardcover

Cost: $17.99

Pages: 352

How I got it: BEA 2013 

Purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Publisher
Publication Date: October 2013
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Synopsis:

After getting kicked out of boarding school, bad boy Derek Fitzpatrick has no choice but to live with his ditzy stepmother while his military dad is deployed. Things quickly go from bad to worse when he finds out she plans to move them back to her childhood home in Illinois. Derek’s counting the days before he can be on his own, and the last thing he needs is to get involved with someone else’s family drama. Ashtyn Parker knows one thing for certain--people you care about leave without a backward glance. A football scholarship would finally give her the chance to leave. So she pours everything into winning a state championship, until her boyfriend and star quarterback betrays them all by joining their rival team. Ashtyn needs a new game plan, but it requires trusting Derek—someone she barely knows, someone born to break the rules. Is she willing to put her heart on the line to try and win it all?

I will say that it's definitely not for the age it's listed for. I would put this down as a new adult or more mature teen.  I really didn't know what was going to happen, because I didn't (as always) read the synopsis. I just knew it's popular, I got it at BEA and everyone was going slightly crazy over it. At first I didn't want to like it, but I do. It was actually pretty good, it turned the story around a bit and I loved the change to the roles.  It kinda a reminded me of a teen movie I watched  in junior high school about the first female footballer.

I can't wait for the next book.  Anybody else love Liz?? Definitely a sleeper character, you never realize she's sneaking into the 'like pile' until the end.  It's a fresh perspective on the typical teen romance; I even goggled the Calhoun girl to see if she was legit.  I'm loving the story.  I liked how they built up to their romance hell they activity fought it in both sides. But man oh man when they eventually caved?? Look out.  I liked how they met, the slightly ditzy older sister/stepmother, the grouchy dad, the crazy Grandma, yeah this story had it all.

I'm kinda happy Derek called out her boyfriend several times, all of which  Ash was willing to ignore just so someone wouldn't leave her.  Ash was complicated because she's not on the fringe like most of these young characters are, she's right in the middle of the popular and fun crowd, but her home life is sucky right now and she's struggling to keep it all together.  I loved that she was a food junkie and ate crap while he dieted and ate right, but then again he's from California it's almost required to eat healthy there.

The camp ground scene?? Yeah I loved the older couple who mentored to them, their story was awesome.  I loved Derek's meeting with his Grandma she was very kicka**. A pretty tough cookie, a little maipulative but she had to do what was necessary.  Those moments at Elite then at the party at the house made me really like Ash, she wasn't willing to take any kind of crap from Derek.

Yeah they just flowed well and I found myself laughing at some points, shaking my head at others and all and all enjoying the story as I read it. I didn't want it to end and really found myself stretching the last few pages just so it wouldn't finish. I'm now adding all her books to my list.  This is why my pile never really goes down as soon as I find a good story I must add everything by the author.

 

4 Witch Hats: Engaging Plot, Well rounded and well written characters. Great world building.  It's a definite must add to your TBR Pile and a highly recommended read for the genre.

Happy Reading

YA Book Review: Giants In the Land 1

Book Title: Giants in the Land: The Way of Things
Author: Clark Rich Burbridge  |Website| Twitter| Facebook|

Publisher: WinePress Publishing
Published: 2012
Genre: Children's/ YA
Format: Hardcover

Cost: $12.99

Pages: 125

How I got it: BEA (Book Expo America)

Series/Stand Alone:  Series Book 1
Purchase:Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Publisher
Synopsis:

There are Giants in the Land . . . . . . and it has always been so as far as anyone can remember. They work side-by-side with the people, and whenever there is a job too difficult or a threat too great they are there to step in. The giants' presence gives the townspeople a special confidence about life. But one morning the people discover the giants have mysteriously disappeared. Fear and panic grip the town. Someone must find them and bring them back. Thomas, a young farmer, volunteers and sets out alone on a great journey of danger and discovery. Thomas learns the true nature of giants and what it means for him and his people. Join Thomas in his timeless rite of passage and learn what it means to become something more than you have been, why it is necessary in life, and how to do it.

I truly enjoyed this book, when I met the author at Book Expo America (BEA).  He really intrigued me with his pitch of the books.  He gave a wonderful quote that I remembered for a while " Older than cabbage patch but before Vampires" It's well written and carries a great message.  I totally loved reading this book once I knew where it was coming from.

Giants In the Land and giants in our lives, this was the over arcing concept. Even the most 'simple' people can become giants by their actions.  Thomas' decision to do what no one else would do not only made him brave, but changed the course of his life, his family's life and the town's understanding of who they were.

It not only made him a hero it made him a giant, even among the giants, his actions were considered astronomical, I found it amazing that he used both a giant to his daughter (physical and emotionally due to his actions).  While realizing his own father had been to him a giant. It's beautiful and amazing book for both you and your kids.
 ★★★★1/2☆
Hope you enjoy,
Happy Reading

YA Book Review: The Vicious Deep (The Vicious Deep 1)

Book Title: The Viscous Deep (The Vicious Deep 1)
Author: Zoraida Corgova |Website| Twitter| Facebook|

Publisher: Sourcebooks Fire
Genre: YA Fiction
Series/Standalone: Series
Format: Paperback

Cost: $9.99

Pages: 370

How I got it: BEA 2013

Purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Publisher

Shelfabililty: Must Read

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Synopsis:

For Tristan Hart, everything changes with one crashing wave. He was gone for three days. Sucked out to sea in a tidal wave and spit back ashore at Coney Island with no memory of what happened. Now his dreams are haunted by a terrifying silver mermaid with razor-sharp teeth. His best friend Layla is convinced something is wrong. But how can he explain he can sense emotion like never before? How can he explain he's heir to a kingdom he never knew existed? That he's suddenly a pawn in a battle as ancient as the gods. Something happened to him in those three days. He was claimed by the sea...and now it wants him back.

This was for me a surprising read.  I wasn't sure what to expect from the author as she was a new one to me and this was a debut novel. Can I say I was on the bus, and train laughing out loud?? I mean actually laughing out loud. I found the characters fresh, fun and very real.  Tristan was my favorite kind of character, it's very rare to have a male character be the lead and he was so good.

Tristan was your typical teenager, until he finds out about his mother's ancestry. I can't tell you how much his reaction amused me. I tried sharing it as a joke to a friend and she was like "i guess you had to have read it" talk about a buzz kill, I still got chuckles though.  I have to say his friends kind of reminded me of several other guy,girl friends. except without their own magic, loyal and willing to stick with you no matter what.  I did however find Layla to be a bit of an a**, there is being brave and then there is sheer stupidity and many times she confused the two believing she was better.

I liked that the characters were fleshed out, and many had their motives for why they were doing what they did.  The world building was done well, as there are not too many stories based on this mythology. From the very beginning the story pulls you in and keeps you wanting more.  Tristan is a likable character and his adventures are well written.  I can't wait to see what happens as Tristan races to stay ahead of his comptetitors and attempts to stay alive.
 ★★★★☆
I'm trying to tell you I love the story without sounding like a teenager gushing about their fave band. But I do I love the story and I can't wait for the final book to come out this year and when it does, don't expect to see me for at least 2 days.

Book Review: The Submissive (The Submissive Trilogy)

Book Title: The Submissive Book 1
Author: Tara Sue Me |Website| Twitter| Facebook|

Publisher: Penguin
Genre: Erotica Romance
Series/Standalone: Series
Format: paperback

Cost: $15.00

Pages: 305

How I got it: Book Expo America

Purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Publisher

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Synopsis:

Abby King has a secret fantasy. New York knows Nathaniel West as the brilliant and handsome CEO of West Industries, but Abby knows he’s more: a sexy and skilled dominant who is looking for a new submissive. Yearning to experience a world of pleasure beyond her simple life as a librarian, Abby offers herself to Nathaniel, to fulfill her most hidden desires. After only one weekend with the Master, Abby knows she needs more, and fully submits to Nathaniel’s terms. But despite the pleasure he takes in Abby’s willing spirit, the Nathaniel hidden behind the rules remains cold and distant. As Abby falls deeper into his tantalizing world of power and passion, she fears that Nathaniel’s heart may be beyond her reach—and that her own might be beyond saving…

When I was at Book Expo America 2013, the sales pitch for this book was   " This is the book that inspired 50 Shades of Grey", another blogger and I were in line and he said "I'm not sure if that's a good thing or a bad thing". I laughed but I decided to stand in line because the author was there so she would be able to pitch it better and she did. It was pretty entertaining, I was both excited and nervous to read the book (because if I haven't made it clear before I dislike hate 50 Shades of Grey, clearly it's not the genre,it's not the content....Sigh look that's a whole other post but yeah, moving on. ) Let's start with the beautiful cover, I loved this cover, it's very simple yet just hints at the raunchy contents hidden within.

I will say I found the series interesting and engaging, this story itself both great for laying the foundation for the rest and truly draws you in.  This one is told, well, from the Submissive's (Abbie's) point of view.  Answering an ad for a submissive makes Abbie both nervous and eexcited.  Abbie had her own reasons why she choose to do this, she was new to being a submissive; but for Nathaniel she would do just about anything.  Nathaniel was both engaging and bit aloof, you couldn't quite get a read on him, but considering we were filtering it through Abigail's perspective it's understandable.

I enjoyed seeing her reasoning, learning his reasoning, watching as they both learnt to navigate their way through this deal and then eventually through the new deal they had formed.  It moved fast & the story that unfolded was both sweet and raunchy. There are clearly moments where Nathaniel failed as a Dominant, he however would find a way to make it up and even make sure it never occurred again. I liked the tension between them and even the way in which they were together, Abbie was being challenge and so was Nathaniel.  I loved that it was set in NYC and that they talked about books a bit.  I loved quite a few of the side characters and even had a few moments of chuckling while reading the book. It certainly had it's dramatic moments.

I liked Abbie as a character and even before I finished the book placed my pre-order for the next two books.  I must admit I finished the book within a few hours because I just didn't want to leave the story alone.  

In the case of was it a good thing or bad thing to have influenced the creation of 50 Shades?? I can see in the story where there are clear lifts from the story in FSOG ( a little more watered down ) but this one was actually done well. The scenes were written in a way that let you know the author either did excellent research or had a consultant on them, which made me a little happy (ok a lot happy). It's not the most brilliant book ever written but it's a good addition to the genre. 

 ★★★★☆
It's one of my new faves in the genre and I highly recommend it for those who both loved and hated FSOG because if you loved it then here is a good transition book into the genre, if you hated FSOG here is a well written introduction to the genre.

Book Review; Entwined With You (Crossfire Book 3)

Book Title: Entwined With You (Crossfire Books 3)
Author: Sylvia Day |Website| Twitter| Facebook|

Publisher: Berkley Books (Penguin)
Genre: Erotica Romance
Format: paperback

Cost: $15.00

Pages: 356

How I got it: Linrary Then Purchased

Purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Publisher
Shelf:  Burn Rubber to Get it!!!
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Synopsis:

The worldwide phenomenon continues as Eva and Gideon face the demons of their pasts, and accept the consequences of their obsessive desires… From the moment I first met Gideon Cross, I recognized something in him that I needed. Something I couldn’t resist. I saw the dangerous and damaged soul inside–so much like my own. I was drawn to it. I needed him as surely as I needed my heart to beat. No one knows how much he risked for me. How much I’d been threatened, or just how dark and desperate the shadow of our pasts would become. Entwined by our secrets, we tried to defy the odds. We made our own rules and surrendered completely to the exquisite power of possession…

Excellent conclusion to many of the open questions of books one and two.  I do understand that there are now two more books being added to the series and I'm looking forward to a whole lot more Gideon and Eva.

Once again *getting ghetto for a little bit here* I'mma need all Exes to step all the way to the left. Find a goddamn seat and stop butting in grown folks relationship Okay?? To the selfish biotch and her reckless stunt yeah how did  that work out for you??? It didn't.. did it?? Here darling these are your tickets to your stadium full of seats.  * ghetto lesson over.*

Once again we're back in Eva's world and for once she's not the one causing trouble.  Cary's finally taking his head out of his hind parts and doing a great imitation of an adult.  The amount of crazy coming off the former women, I'm beginning to doubt Gideon's senses; Sir how didn't you see they weren't all there?? This story flew by so much faster than book two and reminded me so much of book one, I loved it. The pace was amazing, the scenes between them so emotional and raw. I just wow, there's a scene on a plane and let me tell you, The heat coming off the page?? *gets out fan* Eva you better get it!!  This time Gideon was on full frontal assault for the relationship instead of Eva going to bat all the time, he was down there in the trenches working with her and I was so here for it. I loved ever moment of it.

How did Eva not see her dad's reaction coming?? Yeah, I totally saw it coming and it should have come from Eva or her mom not from the source her dad got it from.  Just like she went at Gideon for trying to protect her, she should have seen her own actions were not that different.

I really want to know her mother's story. Am I the only one who wants to know her motives?? Because I'm going to go ahead a say only people who have been there never ever want to go back. Nobody comes up with issues like this without some sort of really good background story.

I can't wait to see what else is in store for the two lovers.  I want to know who it is that did them the favor.  I want to know why. I'm sure Ms.Day is going to give us some seriously good reasons.  The name of the new novel was released recently and it's called "Captivated By You" it's due out sometime this year, so you know I'm looking forward to that.  No Cover or release date has been given at this time, OMG I so would love some information at BEA, but she's not coming to BEA this year (Boooooo!!!)
 ★★★★★
Happy Reading and I can't wait for the next one, can you?? Please check out Book 1's Review and Book 2's Review as well. 

Book Review: Cosmo Red Hot Reads: Cake

Book Title: Red Hot Cosmo Reads: Cake
Author: Lauren Dane |Website| Twitter| Facebook|

Publisher: Harlequin Cosmo Reads
Genre: Erotica/ Contemporary Romance
Series/Standalone: Standalone
Format: paperback/ebook

Cost: $3.19

Pages: 112

How I got it: Book Expo America 2013

Purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Publisher
Shelfabililty: Good Read
Season: Valentine's
Add To Goodreads

Synopsis:

She won’t be satisfied with just one bite... Art student-slash-bike messenger Wren Davis pursues what she wants. And what she wants now is Gregori Ivanov, rock star of the Seattle art scene. With his tattoos, piercings and sensual sneer, Gregori is the ultimate bad boy. Wren’s gotten to know the man beneath the body art, too—and it only makes her crave him more. But Gregori loves women like he loves cake and champagne—intensely, but only for the moment. And after Wren experiences just how scorching sex with Gregori is, she’s determined to show him that just one taste won’t be enough..

I had a good laugh reading this book, it's a cute story. I liked all the characters, Gregori sounds like a good guy; I really liked Wren, she was really well rounded as a character, she had a full life and allowed Gregori to be a part of it, but not the main focus, which I thought was a great way for them to come together.

Wren and Gregori; even their names are amazing, yeah I loved this story. Wren's a strong character, who wanted to know Gregori, but wasn't willing to sacrifice who she was for the attention of Gregori, who is a big time artist.

Gregori is an awesome character as well, he'd made mistakes before and didn't want to make the same ones with Wren, he would rather have her as a friend than chance losing her all together.  So he takes forever to even make his attraction known to her.

The story was well written and flowed well. Considering it's only 112 pages, Lauren managed to put in a very well rounded story with great characters.  It packed quite a punch, the emotional upheaval, the leap of faith needed to create their relationship was amazing. I truly enjoyed it. Can't wait to read more from the new Cosmo Red Reads, these should be great!!

 ★★★★☆

Happy Reading

Book Review: Cowboy's Christmas Baby

Book Title: Cowboy's Christmas Baby (Cowboy's & Brides 2)
Author: Carolyn Brown |Website| 

Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca
Genre: Romance
Series/Standalone: Series (but can be read as standalone)
Format: Mass Market

Cost: $ 7.99

Pages: 352

How I got it: Publisher ARC

Purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Publisher
Shelfabililty: Must Read
Season: Christmas/Yule/Winter
Add To Goodreads
Synopsis:

'Tis the season for... A pistol-totin' woman who's no angel A tough rancher who doesn't believe in miracles Love that warms the coldest nights After a year in Kuwait, Lucas Allen can't wait to get back to his ranch for Christmas and meet his gorgeous Internet pal in person. When he pulls in, there's Natalie Clark right in his front yard with a pink pistol in her hand and a dead coyote at her feet. Lucas is unfazed. But wait...is that a BABY in her arms?

Carolyn is fast becoming one of my new favorite authors, I now have so many of her books and I just want to read them all!!! This newest book in the Cowboys & Brides series has got one of the funniest opening scenes I have read in a long tine.  I love the characters' interaction, even though Lucas makes himself into a real idiot those first few minutes (although I totally understand why).

As always whenever I read a Carolyn Brown book I get sucked back into my love of country music, I wrote two pages of music I wanted on my Christmas music list for next year, just from reading this book.  I always love reading her writing because the characters come across as so real, down to earth, fun, flawed, loving and just the kind of people you would want to know.  I loved how much Natalie was without a doubt one of the coolest women in the room, she handled everything life handed her and she didn't really complain too much.  She cool, she was confident and she totally rocked the heck out of Gretchen Wilson's Redneck Woman. I Loved it!!

The drama was low key in this book, but it sure was big on miracles. I loved that there wasn't insta~love in this one and that they built on a solid foundation that they had already established. Natalie's mama reminded me of my Grandmere so much; I loved her philosophy on life and that Natalie exuded it even when she was hiding out.  I loved how much the town was both part of the problem and the solution.

The chemistry between them was off the charts and made reading so sweet.  I loved reading the way they came together, the way they fought and the way their families interacted with each character.  It's a sweet romance and I can't wait to read more in the series and from Carolyn herself.   I especially want to read the rest of Lucas' ranch hands story, and of course the cattlemen in his club's stories as well.

★★★★☆

This is going to be fun!!! Make sure to check out the other books in the series coming out this year, check my review for the first book in the series Billion Dollar Cowboy. Also click on the Book & Music Pageto see the music lists I have created for these books.

Happy Reading & Enjoy the Music