Tag Archives: Series

More Than Crave You

By Shayla Black

Synopsis

I’m Evan Cook—billionaire tech entrepreneur and widower. Professionally, I’ve got it all. But since my wife died, my personal life has fallen apart. Remarrying seems like the obvious answer, so I place an ad. I’m not asking for much. The ideal woman only needs to be smart, organized, pretty, and helpful—both in and out of bed—without expecting romance. I never thought to look right in front of me…but it turns out that Nia Wright, my sexy, sassy assistant, just might be the perfect candidate.

After an unexpectedly hot night together, I’m ready to stop interviewing strangers and simply marry her. On paper, she ticks every box on my list. Best of all, she’s far too sensible to fall for me. I didn’t see the flaw in my logic until it was too late. I never thought I’d lose my heart for the first time. And I definitely never imagined Nia could consume me. But she’s harboring a secret that could tear us apart. Can I prove I more than crave her before it’s too late?

Review

Just like all of the books in the More Than Words series, More Than Crave You takes you on an emotional journey. I love the way Shayla Black captures the personalities of all these characters. They really do come to life.

I think More Than Crave You effectively shows that the people around us help shape how we relate to other people. When you are never shown what love really can be then it might be difficult to recognize it when it stares you in the face.

Evan is an interesting character. I had real compassion for him but I also thought he was kind of a jerk at first. But after really finding out how he grew up and then the kind of marriage he had before his wife and child were killed, my opinion quickly changed. He had to learn about real love and was getting a crash course.

Nia is an amazing character. I wish I was more like her. She is very strong and knows that she can’t marry someone like it was a business transaction. She had love in her life and wouldn’t settle unless it was reciprocated to her.

This book has so many levels to it. It explores the relationships that are formed between friends, new found siblings and lovers. The social dynamic is set up so skillfully and you really got an understanding why these characters react the way the do.

Plus there was an extra bonus to this book. There was a little crossover action with another series which now makes me want to read that series again.

More Than Crave You

My Rating:

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The Promise (The Burg Series #5)

By Kristen Ashley

Synopsis

Since his brother’s death, Benny Bianchi has been nursing his grudge against the woman he thinks led to his brother’s downfall. He does this to bury the feelings he has for Francesca Concetti, his brother’s girl. But when Frankie takes a bullet while on the run with Benny’s cousin’s woman, Benny has to face those feelings.

The problem is Frankie has decided she’s paid her penance. Penance she didn’t deserve to pay. She’s done with Benny and the Bianchi family. She’s starting a new life away from Chicago and her heartbreaking history. Benny has decided differently. But Frankie has more demons she’s battling. Demons Benny wants to help her face. But life has landed so many hard knocks on Frankie she’s terrified of believing in the promise of Benny Bianchi and the good life he’s offering.

Frankie’s new life leads her to The ‘Burg, where Benny has ties, and she finds she not only hasn’t succeeded in getting away, she’s doesn’t want to.

Review

I have read “At Peace” four times and finally, I thought I was ready to read Frankie and Benny’s story. It was always on my mind but there have been such mixed reviews.

At Peace is one of my favourite stories so I was happy to be able to see so much of these Cal, Vi & the girls in this story. It probably made me forgive the pace and how this story was just too long.

I would have loved for her recuperation and mending fences with Benny’s family to be more in-depth and less of her living away from Benny, it really felt dragged.

The endless drama with Frankie’s family drove me nuts and I admit by the end I skimmed over their conversations as I was like I am over this drama.

Now I did enjoy this story however it did not rock my socks and I felt the ending was rushed. Then we were shown the wonderful life of Frankie and Benny, I would have loved to have less of their time apart and more of their life after.

A favorite character for me was Sal and how he slowly breaks down the barriers and mends fences. He really loved Frankie like and daughter and I loved that for her.

Benny did not disappoint in his alpha protectiveness.

Look I think because this series has two of my favourite books being At Peace and Games of the Heart that I had really high hopes for The Promise. Happy I read but will not be in my KA books that I reread endlessly.

The Promise (The Burg Series #5)

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From Here to You (Crash and Burn #1)

By Jamie McGuire

Synopsis

As Darby Dixon sits in a tiny Texas church bathroom on her wedding day holding a positive pregnancy test, she realizes that of all the bad decisions she’s made in her life, marrying her abusive fiancé would be the worst. She’s never been able to stand up for herself, but she’ll sure as hell stand up for her baby. With just the cash she has on hand, she runs to get a bus ticket to the farthest place she can afford. Between her sheer grit and pageant-queen smile, she lands a job as a front desk clerk at the Colorado Springs Hotel. It’s not a glamorous life, but she and her baby are all that matters.

A former Marine, Scott “Trex” Trexler has worked in the most dangerous, corrupt, war-torn places on earth. Now he finally has a chance to return to the last place he’d felt at peace–Colorado Springs, Colorado, to take a new job with the Cheyenne Mountain Complex, a top-secret military installation buried deep within the granite.

The moment Trex walks into the inn, Darby knows he’s dangerous. There’s no way she wants to get involved with another man who seems to be keeping way too many secrets. As charming and devastatingly gorgeous as Trex is, he clearly isn’t telling her everything. But as wildfires rage on the mountain and Darby’s ex-fiancé shows he isn’t so willing to let her go, both she and Trex are soon to find out that what you don’t know absolutely can hurt you.

Review

Really lovely story and Darcy was strong yet so compassionate and loving. From the first few pages, you will fall in love with her. It was uplifting to watch her fight for good in her life and make such integral changes in her life for her own safety.

The connection between Darcy and Trex was so passionate but also filled with miscommunications. At times I felt slightly frustrated as they definitely were on a roller coaster with their relationship.

The length of time this story follows was perfect, it was believable considering Darcy’s history with the ex-fiancee. I did find myself constantly on edge waiting for him to make his presence felt.

There are many references to God and faith in this story. Trex is a preachers son and now atheist and Darcy has a strong faith, this did not bother me much.

The ending was perfect, I felt satisfied, you get a beautiful happy every after for Darcy and she certainly deserved it.

From Here to You (Crash and Burn #1)

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Rebel (Rebel Wheels #1)

By Elle Casey

Synopsis

Teagan Cross, college senior, rebel, and wiseass extraordinaire, goes from princess to pauper in a single phone call. Overnight, her life of privilege becomes one of survival, and no matter where she turns, it seems like the world is out to get her. She’s not going to fall apart, though. She’s a rebel and she’s strong … determined to live life on her own terms … and nothing’s going to stop her from getting things done and making things right. But when a twist of fate brings her to the doorstep of a different kind of Rebel, she’s forced to figure out when something’s worth fighting for and when something’s worth letting go.

Review

Rebel is a Romantic Comedy with a suspense story simmering in the background which kept me intrigued until the end where it takes center stage.

Quin and Teagan have great chemistry as friends and many times caused me to laugh out loud. Their one-liners are just so funny and light-hearted.

Teagan has some emotional moments where I felt true heartache for her, but I loved her determination.

Teagan and Rebel, well some moments are great and others I struggled with. However, once I knew his story I forgave and understood his silent treatment. The relationship with the brothers I enjoyed immensely and how they became attached and protective of Teagan.

Now I have to admit I am unhappy with her dad’s story not being resolved. I did find myself smiling at the conclusion about how Rebel stood up and took charge.

This is not a college romance, it takes place over college break. There are some great passionate moments. The verbal Diahorrea between Quin and Teagan will make you laugh, cringe and fall in love with their friendship.

Overall, I enjoyed this story.

Quote: I was asking for Trouble. Instead, I got something special

Rebel (Rebel Wheels #1)

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Dirty, Reckless Love (The Boys of Jackson Harbour #3)

By Lexi Ryan

Synopsis

I’m in love with a man who tried to kill me. At least that’s what they tell me . . .

Six weeks ago, paramedics found me unconscious in my apartment. Beaten. Bruised. Hardly breathing. When I woke up, I couldn’t remember the last three years or anything about my life in Jackson Harbor. They tell me my fiancé, Colton McKinley, is on the run for what he did to me. They tell me I’m safer if I stay away.

I don’t care if my memories ever come back. I want nothing to do with those missing years . . . until a sexy stranger with angry eyes shows up on my doorstep and demands I stop ignoring him.

Levi Jackson is my fiancé’s best friend, but seeing him sparks something inside me. As the truth unravels in my mind, I know they’re wrong about Colton. My own secrets are far more dangerous than the man I was engaged to.

I return to Jackson Harbor to search for answers and find myself running from a faceless boogeyman and seeking refuge in Levi’s arms. And in his bed.

I can’t deny my feelings for Levi. But as the pile of lies between us grows, I realize that sometimes the truth can’t set us free. Sometimes, it’s the very thing that can destroy us.

Review

Levi, Ellie, and Colton each brought their own vulnerabilities to this love story which makes you fall in love with all of them.

Dirty, Reckless Love is full of twists, lies and lust and love that goes deep in your bones. Ellie is passionate, confused, headstrong and determined for a better life full of love.

The story is past and present and we move between the two effortlessly as the author weaves her tale. As the ending nears the gap in Ellie’s memory connects the two periods of time until they clash. There are moments you think you know who the danger is and I did not pick this twist.

The dynamic between Ellie, Colton and Levi’s friendship provided moments of heartache and passion Whilst not a full on love triangle which I hate, this is told really well. I put that down to Levihonoringg his friendship with Colton at the beginning but then like all romantic love stories the heart takes over.

What i loved about the ending was how the author gave Ellie her time at the conclusion to find herself before she found her true love.

Whilst this is a series, I have not read the others and this story is a standalone.

Quote: “Yes, but if you’ve only ever seen sunshine, how do you know you can face the storm”

Dirty, Reckless Love (The Boys of Jackson Harbour #3)

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Memento Mori (Masters and Mercenaries: The Forgotten #1)

By Lexi Blake

Synopsis

Six men with no memories of the past
One leader with no hope for the future

A man without a past

Jax woke up in a lab, his memories erased, and his mind reprogrammed to serve a mad woman’s will. After being liberated from his prison, he pledged himself to the only thing he truly knows-his team. Six men who lost everything they were. They must make certain no one else gets their hands on the drugs that stole their lives, all while hiding from every intelligence organization on the planet. The trail has led him to an unforgiving mountainside and a beautiful wilderness expert who may be his only hope of finding the truth.

A woman with a bright future

River Lee knows her way around the Colorado wilderness. She’s finally found a home in a place called Bliss after years lost in darkness. The nature guide prefers to show her clients the beauty found in the land, but she also knows the secrets the mountains hold. When she meets Jax, something about the troubled man calls to her. She agrees to lead him to the site of an abandoned government facility hidden deep in the forest. She never dreamed she was stepping into the middle of a battlefield.

A love that could heal a broken soul

Spending time with River, Jax discovers a peace he’s never known. Their passion unlocks a side of himself he didn’t even know he was missing. When an old enemy makes his first move, Jax and River find themselves fighting for their lives. But when his past is revealed, will River be caught in the crosshairs of a global conspiracy?

Review

I hope that I can effectively express how Memento Mori blew me away. I fell for this book in the acknowledgments. Memento Mori was not a term I had not heard before but the meaning could be felt throughout this book.

Jax is the perfect character to start this lost boys spin-off series. He is instantly likable in his dealings with other people and his brothers. He has been through so much and is learning with each interaction with everyone how to be a complete man again. When he falls for River, his world became more complex. He now is torn between his brothers and the person he loves.

River is a woman who has lost a lot. Her first husband turned out to a horrible human being and then she lost her father. She definitely has trust issues. Jax coming into her life confuses her that much more.

The beginning of Memento Mori instantly transported me back to Bliss before I knew Sophie Oak and Lexi Blake were one in the same. I love all the characters new and old. Getting to know Nell again was so much fun. She and Henry are perfect together. Also we were revisited by other residents of Bliss. I also really enjoy Ian Taggart. He has a way of adding his special brand of advice and commentary that makes everyone think.

I can’t go into too much more without giving away major spoilers but I loved the Masters and Mercenaries series and this spin off series has captured the same magic for me. I can’t wait to read about all the lost boys.

Memento Mori

My Rating:

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Keeping 6 (Rock Point #1)

By Freya Barker

Synopsis

Bookstore owner Kerry Emerson finally seems to be back in control of her life. Her failure of a marriage firmly in her rearview mirror and her recent business expansion a success, she is in charge of her own future. One that is looking better than ever.
The sight of the tall man, with the familiar salt and pepper goatee pushing open the door of her store, sets her hair on end. He doesn’t exactly bring good memories.

FBI Special Agent in Charge, Damian Gomez, is just looking for a decent cup of coffee when he walks into the small store offering books and brew. The pretty, feisty woman behind the counter is an unexpected surprise. Not at all unpleasant, especially since her finger that used to hold a wedding ring is now bare.
Her wild hair, boho style and silvery grey eyes suddenly hold a lot of promise. But when his office is pulled into an international investigation into the trafficking of rare books and manuscripts, the straight-laced SAC realizes he has to keep his distance from the woman who might well be involved.

Easier said than done, since fate seems determined to throw them together.

Review

Keeping 6 is a wonderful mystery romance with great pace and a variety of characters to keep the story interesting.

The romance between Damien and Kerry builds really well, it is realistic for their age. Kerry and Damien are mature characters so both have life experience and issues to overcome. Damien was a typical alpha but learned quickly about being with a strong independent woman. Their love built up with moments in life that make you adjust your expectations.

Damien’s family were funny and frustrating and their parts in the book helped tie these two people together. Kerry needed to see what family was all about and this made her yearn for different.

The law enforcement story was a slow simmer throughout the story and built to a good climax. I did not pick the double cross.

Would love to see if Myra gets a story after her traumatic involvement. I kind of felt a connection with Keith.

Keeping 6 was an enjoyable story that kept me entertained with a wonderful mix of characters.

Quote: This is trust. The need to share every flaw, every thought, every honest moment. This is love.

Keeping 6 (Rock Point #1)

My Rating:

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The Professor (Fox University – FU # 1)

By Luke Prescott

Synopsis

I’m Professor Drake Grayson. I’ve been teaching Psychology for the last few years at Fox University. It’s a great university, filled with a wide variety of students. Some eager to learn, some eager to get in my pants.

I’ve never crossed that line. I’ve never taken advantage of the power I have. I’ve never wanted to bend a student over my desk like I have with Emma Bower. She makes me want to forget I’m her professor and teach her things that she’ll remember forever. But is the risk worth it?

I’m Emma Bower. I’m in my last year of Fox University as a Psychology major. I can’t wait to get out into the real world and pick people apart. It’s been an amazing four years filled with memories that I’ll never forget.

Especially the penetrating stare of Professor Grayson. That man has been in every fantasy I’ve had since the day I walked in his class. I know he’s untouchable, forbidden, he’s my professor, my mentor. But what if his touches lasted longer and his eyes darkened with a wicked grin? What if the professor everyone wants, wanted me? Would the risk be worth it?

There’s only one way to find out.

Review

THE PROFESSOR is the first book that I’ve from Luke Prescott and it won’t be the last.

I really liked Drake. A professor sleeping with his student is scandalous, but you know that he has never done this before and that he fights his attraction to Emma pretty hard. He doesn’t treat her like he has power over her and he was not afraid of his growing feelings for her. I really liked Emma too, who was smart and very mature and not at all annoying like some college-aged characters can be. Though I did roll my eyes when she described being torn in half every time she and Drake had sex.

Speaking of sex, it was good. Some of the hottest I’ve read in a loooong time. Emma and Drake were damn hot together. DAMN HOT!

I really enjoyed this story, but there’s one big reason why I only gave this 4❤ instead of 5❤, and that reason is the ending. The epilogue is sweet but at the same time disappointing because the story felt unfinished. There’s no HEA or even a HFN, at least in my opinion, and the next book in the series will be about another couple. I’m really hoping that we’ll get updates on Drake and Emma’s relationship from the other books coming out in this series.

THE PROFESSOR is told in dual POVs and is the first book in the Fox University – FU series.

The Professor (Fox University – FU # 1)

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Fox University – FU Series

Anything for Love (Hunter Brothers #1)

By Lola St. Vil

Synopsis

Winter, I know your ex hurt you, but I’m not him. I can love you; let me…

Winter Bennett is on the worst date of her life, so she decides to bail and go home to her true loves: take out and Netflix. On her way out of the door, she spots her ex-boyfriend with his hot, new girl. Horrified at the thought of being seen, Winter does what any sane woman would do; she bolts into the bathroom and out the back window.

Falling smack-dab in the middle of a sting operation wasn’t part of the plan, but that’s exactly what happened. And now, bullets are flying overhead. Thankfully, a sexy NYPD homicide detective by the name of Wyatt Hunter saves her. He is furious with her for ruining his operation but he’s even more upset when he can’t get her off his mind. Soon he falls for her — hard. Unfortunately, Winter’s heart has been broken and she’s too afraid to let anyone in. Does Wyatt have what it takes to get Winter to give love one more try?

This steamy romance is a roller coaster ride that will make you hot, make you laugh, and even shed a few tears. It’s a full-length standalone novel. NO cheating, NO cliffhangers, and a guaranteed Happily-ever-after! This book has adult content for ages 18 and over.

Review

Loved this slow burn romance, both Wyatt and Winter are easy characters to fall in love with.

“When it’s over, we don’t let go. I think that’s why I love him: he never let’s go.”

The above sums up why I loved this story, Wyatt is such a good guy, he is alpha but oh so sensitive. When he falls for Winter it is deep, loving, possessive and such a beautiful relationship to watch develop.

Two of my favourite shows are referenced in this story, it made me smile, Friends and Man v Food, I love when that happens, it’s like they are on my wavelength.

We meet their families and in particular Wyatt and his brother’s who will form this series. They are very likable men who will provide alpha romance.

One character I adored was Decker and there are some twists in his side story which made me so happy – he was the perfect soup guy – read this story and it will make your heart sing.

Wyatt was just such a strong alpha male and I loved his perseverance with winter. You will understand Winter’s reluctance at intimacy and her trust issues and once known I gave her the space to develop. Their physical moments once the barrier was broken were very satisfying.

The flow of this story is easy to read, keeps you entertained and is light and will make you happy. The epilogue tied up loose ends nicely and we get to go a few years ahead to witness special moments.

Anything for Love was simply a lovely romantic read with all the feel-good moments to make you smile and swoon.

Quote: “No you weren’t ready baby, but it’s okay. You’re my girl and I’ll wait for you…”

Anything for Love (Hunter Brothers #1)

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Bishop (Arizona Vengeance #1)

By Sawyer Bennett

Synopsis

Bishop Scott, co-captain. Not too shabby, huh? It’s all part of my fresh start with the NHL’s latest expansion team, and that means new teammates, a new coach, a new city, and a big new contract. Basically, I cannot f***ing wait to show my old squad what they’re missing.

But first, I decide to check out the town before the grind begins. Turns out Arizona chicks are totally smokin’, and I’m fortunate enough to meet one who’s looking for the same thing I am: a night of anonymous, unforgettable, no-strings-attached sex.

Fast forward to the Vengeance arena. It’s the last place I expect to see her again—let alone in her own office. Then bells go off and I finally realize who this girl is: Brooke Perron. My new coach’s daughter. All of a sudden, we’re picking up right where we left off, which means our hands are all over each other. That’s when her dad—my boss—walks in. And before I can get a word out, Brooke’s introducing me as her fiancé.

Sure, she just saved my ass. So why do I get the feeling Brooke’s going to turn my world upside down? Maybe it’s because this fake relationship feels way too real. . . .

Review

BISHOP is the first book in a new hockey romance series by Sawyer Bennett, and it was a pretty decent start to the series.

What I liked:
1 – How bold and confident Brooke was with Bishop the night of their one-night-stand. It was nice to see a woman not ashamed to admit exactly what it was she wanted.
2 – That while Bishop was surprised by his growing feelings for Brooke, not once did he get scared or push her away because of them. He might not have wanted a relationship originally, but he was willing to see how things would progress between them.
3 – Meeting some of the other players on the team, especially brooding and damaged Tacker.
4 – Getting a quick introduction to the team’s owner, who seemed like a pretty cool guy.

What I didn’t like:
1 – Bishop insisting that Brooke sleep with him in return for him going along with the fake engagement. Yes, she wanted to keep sleeping with him, but the idea of a man using his power over a woman to demand sexual gratification did not sit well with me.
2 – The several mentions of anal sex that never happened. If the couple aren’t going to have anal sex, why have them keep talking about how it’s going to happen?
3 – Nanette’s involvement in this story, as well as the fact that her involvement was not finalized. I can only assume—and hope—that we will find out what is happening with her in the next book/s, otherwise there was no point to her being in this book at all.
4 – The book’s abrupt ending. There seems to be a growing trend recently where a book will finish immediately after the couple make up, with no epilogue, which makes me feel like I’ve been left hanging. I am not a fan of it.

BISHOP is told in dual POVs, and while I didn’t fall in love with this story, I’m definitely looking forward to reading more books in this series.