Monday 12 December 2016

Review ~ The Matchmaker's Replacement (Wingmen Inc., #2) by Rachel Van Dyken

The Matchmaker's Replacement (Wingmen Inc., #2)
Paperback purchased by myself.

Release Date: August 9th 2016

Publisher: Amazon Skyscape

Description:
Wingman rule number two: never reveal how much you want them.

Lex hates Gabi. Gabi hates Lex. But, hey, at least the hate is mutual, right? All Lex has to do is survive the next few weeks training Gabi in all the ways of Wingmen Inc. and then he can be done with her. But now that they have to work together, the sexual tension and fighting is off the charts. He isn’t sure if he wants to strangle her or throw her against the nearest sturdy table and have his way with her.

But Gabi has a secret, something she’s keeping from not just her best friend but her nemesis too. Lines are blurred as Lex becomes less the villain she’s always painted him to be…and starts turning into something more. Gabi has always hated the way she’s been just a little bit attracted to him—no computer-science major should have that nice of a body or look that good in glasses—but “Lex Luthor” is an evil womanizer. He’s dangerous. Gabi should stay far, far away.

Then again, she’s always wanted a little danger.

My Opinion

I've had to wait a little longer than I'd have liked to buy and read this. I've been dying to read Lex's book ever since I finished Ian's, and to no surprise RVD  once again has released an amazing read. 

Just like usual, the book was mixed with humour and romance--kind of. I loved the fights between Lex and Gabi and how it built the tension and chemistry between them. I can't tell you how many times their quick wits made me smile. It's just great writing.


Overall, I'm not going to say any more. Those of you who follow my reviews know how much I love this author. She's one of my top recommendations and this book is no exception.

5

Sunday 11 December 2016

Review ~ Catching Fox by Aimee McNeil

Catching Fox
ebook downloaded via Amazon for free.

Release Date: December 22nd 2015

Publisher: Limitless Publishing LLC

Description:
A chance meeting between two young souls is all it took...

When Adalynne Fairweather was just a child, her entire life had already been planned. From Ivy League schools to a career in law, adventure was the one thing out of her reach. That was until a boy with bright green eyes and a monster truck t-shirt wandered into her back yard, giving the adventure she longed for. 

Refuge can be found in the most unlikely places…

Damon Knight’s abusive home life left him longing for a childhood he never had—until he wandered into Adalynne’s yard. She took his hand, smiled at him, and even gave him a nickname. Fox. The woods became their escape—a place to flee from reality. He discovered music through Adalynne’s piano, and not long after that, she gave him a guitar. Little did he know that gift would change his life forever.

Years later, their age is not the only thing that’s changed...

Adalynne’s love for Fox took on a life of its own. As they begin to build their lives, her heart aches for him in ways she can’t understand. As they slowly begin to drift apart, Adalynne becomes more desperate to cling to their secret romance. 

But Fox is no longer the bright-eyed child from the woods. Her shy, beautiful Fox has grown into a dark, troubled man with a guitar. And when her last attempt to salvage their relationship breaks Adalynne’s heart, catching Fox a second time seems just out of her reach.

My Opinion

I've had this book on my kindle for a while. It's been one of the free amazon downloads that I've been meaning to read for ages but haven't got round to. Well, I finally made time since I've cleared my ARC pile and it didn't disappoint.

I didn't expect this book to hook me the way it did. I've seen mixed reviews about it so I wasn't sure which way things would go for me. However, I really enjoyed Fox and Bee's story, and found it hard to put down.

Catching Fox is a story of unrequited love. I felt for Bee due to the way Fox treated her, but I could also feel the connection that formed from them being friends at such a young age. Those kinds of bond are hard to break, which was evident in their later years as they come back into contact. The only problem is Fox doesn't believe he's good enough.

A lot happens in this book. There are a few twists that surprised me and kept things interesting. While I wouldn't label it a romantic suspense, it was definitely an intriguing book. It downplayed the rocker side of things a lot which was a surprise--a good one. It made a nice chance not to have the usual rocker stereotypes filling up pages. The book stayed about Fox and Bee, not Fox's lifestyle.


Overall, I really enjoyed this. I'd definitely recommend reading it.

4

Saturday 10 December 2016

Review ~ Playing Games by Liliana Rhodes

Playing Games
ebook downloaded for free via Amazon.

Release Date: October 28th 2016

Description:
I wanted to be a gentleman, but I couldn't control myself when she was near. 

Unemployed and broke, Cassie Monroe is hoping for a better life in Canyon Cove. When she's offered her dream job, she accepts, but things get complicated after spying on her sexy new boss in the shower.

Former MMA fighter Gabriel Kohl is one of Canyon Cove's most private billionaires and one of it's most notorious playboys. When he spots the curvy physical therapist in his gym, there's no stopping him from getting what he wants.

Unable to forget his kiss, Cassie follows her heart. But Gabriel's late night visits and quick exits leave her suspicious. Is he just playing games or is Gabriel ready to share his secrets and his life with her?

My Opinion

Once more I'm working my way through the Amazon freebies I've collected over the years. Lilian Rhodes is another new author to me, but this won't be the last book I read by her.

Playing Games was a sweet, light-hearted story. It was a short, easy read, but kept me hooked, and I couldn't put it down. I especially liked the fact Gabriel wasn't the usual billionaire in the sense he has unusual fetishes. He was controlling and an alpha male, but he had a softer side and genuinely cared. It made a nice change from the usual billionaire erotica out nowadays.

As for the story, it was short and to the point. I could have easily read more and wish it had been longer so I could have stayed in this world a bit more. It was well-written and an easy style to get lost in.


Overall this was a pleasant and enjoyable read. I'd definitely recommend.

4

Friday 9 December 2016

Review ~ TKO: Total Knock Out by Ana Layne

TKO: Total Knock Out
ebook downloaded via Amazon for free.

Release Date: September 2nd 2014

Publisher: Limitless Publishing LLC

Description:
Raegan Montgomery's life changed in an instant…

One minute you think you know someone and the next minute they’re a stranger. When Raegan was forced to make a decision, she ended up alone. All. Alone. 

One step inside a gym was all it took. 

The ring became her escape. She was more determined than ever to move on and forget her old life. That was, until she saw those blue eyes.

Garrett Johnson wants nothing more than to spend his time training and dominating in the ring.

It's what he's good at. 

It's what he does. 

He has no time, or desire, to be entangled in a relationship. But after one look at Raegan, his whole world shifted. He needs her, he needs to know her, only its not so easy. This may be a fight he can’t win. 

Will he be able to win Raegan over? Or will it end in a total knock out?

My Opinion

Over the last years I've downloaded three out of four books in this series through individual free promotions so I thought it was about time I started it. 

TKO was an okay read. It started out strong, but I felt it fizzled out in the middle and lost its edge. The drama and situations that had been set up were resolved much too easily, with little effort or explanation. Similarly, the romance fizzled out. For me, the chemistry died and all that was left was unnecessary drama that was extended for too long. 


Overall this was okay. For the most part it was enjoyable and I might read book 2 since I have it. I do have high standards when it comes to fighter romances, so for me this one had potential but missed the mark.

3

Thursday 8 December 2016

Review ~ Sworn to Protect (Red Stone Security, #11) by Katie Reus

Sworn to Protect (Red Stone Security, #11)
ebook downloaded for free via Amazon

Release Date: July 7th 2015

Publisher: KR Press LLC

Description:
His worst mistake was walking away from her…

Quinn Brody ended things with sweet, sexy Athena when he learned she was a virgin. Their relationship was getting too serious and walking away seemed like the best plan. But Quinn has never been able to forget Athena. And when she gets a marketing job at Red Stone Security, it becomes impossible. Quinn wants a second chance, but Athena's not interested—even if the chemistry between them is off the charts.

Now his past has come back to haunt him…

The man Quinn put behind bars has been released from prison and is out for blood. Quinn took years of the man’s life and helped his abused wife flee so now the ex-con is hellbent on using Athena to make Quinn pay. 

He’ll do anything to protect her…

When Athena is sent to Vegas for a tradeshow Quinn volunteers to accompany her—to watch her back. But professional quickly turns personal when the threat to Athena escalates. Refusing to lose her again, Quinn will do anything to save her. Even if it means risking both his life and his heart.

My Opinion

Once again, this is another new author to me. I picked Sworn to Protect up for free on Amazon some time ago and since this series has intrigued me for a while I decided to give it ago.

I'm a big fan of romantic suspense. I also love security firms, bodyguards etc. in romances. That meant from the blurb Sworn to Protect sounded perfect.

What I got was an easy, simple read to pass the time. I liked the chemistry between the characters, and thought the plot was intriguing enough to engage. While it was predictable--and maybe slightly unrealistic or oversimplified--I still enjoyed it. Things weren't too deep and heavy, making for a good book to chill out with.

Overall, for a first read it was good. I will more than likely check out the other books in the series and would recommend this.

3

Wednesday 7 December 2016

Review ~ Defending Jagger (Search & Seek #1) by Amanda Mackey

Defending Jagger (Search & Seek #1)
ebook downloaded for free via Amazon.

Release Date: July 26th 2016

Publisher: Limitless Publishing LLC

Description:
Jagger Reed has a secret that could destroy lives…

And one life that could be destroyed is his disabled brother’s. Jagger is in jail for a crime he didn't commit, and believes it’s a small price to pay to protect his family.

Rosalind McAllister is the newest creative writing teacher at Arizona State Prison…

Rose is determined to prove herself to her criminal students and not let them break her—like they did the last teacher. But when she meets Jagger Reed, she immediately knows the line between student and teacher could be easily blurred. Tall, intimidating, and way too handsome to be incarcerated, she vows to keep him at a distance.

A creative writing assignment turns into the discovery of Jagger’s innocence…

When Rose reads Jagger’s creative writing piece, she’s both astounded and impressed. His written words call to her, providing a window into his private world. But as the assignment continues, she discovers facts about Jagger’s conviction that change everything.

Determined to piece together clues that leap out from the pages, she finds much more than an articulate prisoner.

How can she save a man who doesn't want to be saved? And can she stop her heart from getting involved while…
Defending Jagger?

My Opinion

I liked the premise of this book, and for the most part it held my attention. I was really enjoying it ... But then the ending came ...

Defending Jagger is a story revolving  around Jagger, a guy serving 20 years for manslaughter, and Rose, his creative writing teacher in prison. I won't go into too many details, but as the two of them learn to trust each other some important discoveries come to light. 

Like I said, I sped through this book and it kept me engaged. However, as I was reading it I couldn't help be aware of the page count rapidly coming to an end, while there was still plenty of story to be told. I didn't know whether this was a series or standalone at the time, but I knew if it was a standalone I wouldn't get the satisfying ending I was after ... and I was right.

The author set up this great story with an intriguing plot. It had me hooked, yet then it just all fizzled out in the end. Things come to fruition way too simply and there's little described with the resolve. It was disappointing as the author spent all this time developing the plot just to throw it away in a matter of pages. Personally, I feel the start should have been cut down and more added to the end to give a satisfying resolve that wasn't rushed. In fact she probably could have got away with making it slightly longer without cutting--although I would have liked less teaching. 

I really wish the book hasn't ended the way it had. I had been enjoying it, but it just needed that bit extra for me. 


Overall, most of it is a good read, even if it was let down by the ending. I might read the next book, but I haven't decided yet. 

3

Tuesday 6 December 2016

Review ~ Intended for Bristol (Second Chances, #9) by L.P. Dover

Intended for Bristol (Second Chances, #9)
eARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: December 6th 2016

Publisher: Random House Love Swept

Description:
Trying to live down his very public indiscretions, Carolina Cougars kicker Jaxon Reed feels like the most hated man in the NFL. Fans and teammates alike treat him with the disrespect he figures he deserves. Unfortunately for them, Jaxon’s no easy target. As payback, he sets his sights on the quarterback’s sister: a sultry brunette who’s curvy, confident, and sexy as hell. But what begins as a revenge fling turns into so much more—a lesson in humanity, and in love.

Bristol Thomas doesn’t have time for games, especially those played by her brother’s Neanderthal teammates. A talented interior designer with lofty goals, she doesn’t know the first thing about football, or Jaxon—except that he’s exactly the type of man she usually avoids. But when his deep laugh and deeper kisses break through her walls, she becomes the target of a fan who’s obsessed with Jaxon. Now she needs to know that Jaxon has her back . . . because he already has her heart.

My Opinion

Damn it ... Another book finished and the wait until L. P. Dover's next release begins again.

I don't think it matters how many books this author writes, I always love returning to her world full of brilliant characters. She's created such a great community over her series and I never want to leave. 

Intended For Bristol was no exception. I really enjoyed Jaxon's story, even if it was a little predictable and not as dramatic as some of the other books in the series. I will admit the story line did feel like some of her other books, but it kept me hooked, and once again was over much too soon. 


Overall, I enjoyed this book. It was a good addition to the series and LP's next release can't come soon enough.

4

Monday 5 December 2016

Blog Tour ~ Stolen Breath (Chequered Flag, #3) by Mia Hoddell


Stolen Breath
by Mia Hoddell

Genre: Sports Romance/Romantic Suspense
Release Date: December 5th 2016
Pages: 344

Blurb
My name is Zeke Lawson, but you probably know that already because everyone’s heard of me.

I’m the bad boy of Formula One.
The player.
The heartbreaker.

At least that’s what I allow people to believe.

The truth is too precious to be tarnished by reporters, and no matter what my fans think, they don’t deserve access to every detail of my life. It’s just a shame Nadine Hadley doesn’t see it that way.

She’s writing the feature every driver longs for on me—the one that can make your career. The only problem is she wants more than I’m willing to give her … and she’s playing dirty to get it.

Flirtatious smiles, skimpy dresses, sex: Nadine is using my reputation against me, and it’s working. No man could resist her, especially when she swears not to print my story.

So now I’m in too deep.

I want her more than anything, yet falling for a journalist may cost me the one thing I vowed to protect. Although, that seems insignificant when compared to another issue I face this racing season.

Did I forget to mention someone is trying to kill me?

*Each book in the Chequered Flag series can be read as a standalone and is complete with a HEA.*



ONLY 0.99 FOR A LIMITED TIME!

Buy Links:
Amazon | B&N | iBooks Kobo


What reviewers are saying:

"Filled with romance, suspense, chemistry and mystery." Melissa: HEA Fanatics on Chameleon Soul

"I wasn't prepared for the full emotional journey this book takes us on ... Hands down, this will be one of my favorite reads of the year." Mignon Mykel on Chameleon Soul

"To say I was absorbed in this story would be an understatement." Jess: Nerdy, Dirty & Flirty on Chameleon Soul

 "I've never had a book effect me the way this one did. From the mystery and danger to the realness of everything Raine and Teo go through, this is one book that had tears rolling and love pouring from my soul." Amanda Barbee: The Magic of Books on Chameleon Soul

"Their story will have you gasping with bewilderment, worrying about the emotional roller coaster the two have endured, and cheering for happily ever after these two both deserve." - Amy: Pages Abound on Twisted Mind

"Twisted Mind made my heart race. What a great love story of two people trying to move on from a hurtful past." MAustin: Alpha Book Club on Twisted Mind



Excerpt


Stan stood as I moved to sit down and held out his hand.

“I’m afraid I have to head off, but you have my number if you need to discuss anything.”

I shook his hand and, with a final pointed look at Zeke, Stan left.

“Are you going too?” I prayed he’d say yes so I could head home early. I needed to regroup after the shock he posed to my system.

“Yep, but you’re coming with me.” Zeke signalled for the bill while I remained standing, dumbfounded. He paid, and only when he started to slide out of the booth did I find my voice.

“Why would I do that?”

“Because you like your job and wouldn’t want me making a complaint to your boss.”

I planted a hand on my hip. “You wouldn’t.”

“Sure I would.”

Really? You’re blackmailing me?”

Zeke stepped out of the booth, forcing me to wobble back on my heels. “I prefer to think of it as gentle persuasion. After all, your boss wanted personal, didn’t he? For that you’re going to need to be my shadow. If you’re not, you aren’t doing your job.”

“You’re unbelievable. Where the hell do you even need to go?”

“First we’re going to get you some new shoes, then I need to meet up with some triathlon buddies.”

I picked up my file and followed him from the restaurant, irritated. “You do triathlons?”

“See, I’m being helpful. You wouldn’t have known that if it hadn’t been for me.”

“I can think of a few things you are, and helpful isn’t one of them.”

Zeke chuckled. “One of them is sexy, isn’t it?”

I grumbled in response, choosing to change the subject so we didn’t stroll into dangerous territory. “Why are we getting me new shoes?”

“Because the ones you’re wearing are too big. You’ll slow me down or break your neck trying to keep up with me.”

“I’m fine, you worry about yourself.”

“You’re getting new shoes, princess. Deal with it.”

As if to prove his point, I tripped over the kerb as we crossed the road. This time I was sure I’d hit the concrete, but Zeke’s arms locked around me and pulled me upright. He didn’t need to say I told you so, his expression said it for him, and I resisted the urge to slap the smirk off his mouth.

“See? Why are you wearing these death traps anyway? I’ve never seen you look so … not put together.”

I huffed. “Mine broke on the way to work and these were the only ones someone could lend me.”

Zeke set me safely back on my feet and took my hand. I glanced down at it then up at him. The gesture felt unfamiliar and personal, not something I associated with Zeke. As if reading my thoughts, he explained, “In case you fall again.”

“Sure, because the only thing you’re interested in is my safety.”
  

Teasers






About The Series 


Chameleon Soul (Chequered Flag #1)

I have it all: my dream career as a Formula 1 driver, more money than I can spend, crowds who cheer my name "Teo Coates," and an endless supply of beautiful women to warm my bed as I travel the world.

I should be happy. I should love my life.

But none of it means anything without her.

One year ago, the love of my life broke off our two-year relationship via a phone call. No explanation, no apology, and no sign it was coming. She shattered me…ripped out my heart. And the worst part is that I couldn’t stay to fight for her without losing my career.

However, now the racing season’s over, I’m back, and I intend to reclaim my girl’s heart.

There’s just one problem.

The girl I left behind no longer exists. Plagued by fear, something has broken Raine Wilkins to the point where she’s struggling to cope with each day. It’s going to take all of my skill to gather the explanation I was denied a year ago and persuade her to reveal her secrets. But if there’s one thing I can guarantee, it’s I never lose. I returned to the UK with one goal: win back the girl I love, and nothing and no one will get in my way.

Amazon | B&N | iBooks | Kobo
(Only 1.99 for Stolen Breath's release)

Twisted Mind (Chequered Flag #2)

She’s toxic.

Everyone tells me to leave her—that she’s going to destroy me.

But things aren’t that simple.

Elora’s pregnant with my child and I endure her twisted games of manipulation and violence to protect my unborn baby. I never predicted she would do the unthinkable or that she was cruel enough to kill.

Yet she did, and now everything’s spiralling out of control.

The light-hearted jokester on the race track isn’t a part I can play anymore. The Dustin Coates everyone loved is no longer me. I’m merely a grief-stricken man who’s barely able to function.

At least until Tazia Nixon moves in next door.

She soothes my aching heart and helps me forget. With every second I’m around her, I can feel myself being revived.

However, beneath her eternal optimism is a distressing past, and the lies are starting to unravel around me. I should have protected my fragile heart from her when I had the chance because now it’s too late. Someone out there wants to destroy me, and the odds are stacking up against us. They know Tazia can break me beyond repair, and they aren’t afraid to use her.

Amazon | B&N | iBooks | Kobo
(Only 1.99 for Stolen Breath's release)

About the Author

#1 Amazon bestselling author Mia Hoddell lives in the UK with her family and two cats. She spends most of her time writing or reading, loves anything romantic, and has an overactive imagination that keeps her up until the early hours of the morning.

Mia has written over ten titles including her Seasons of Change series, the Chequered Flag series, the Elemental Killers series, and her standalone novels False Finder, Not Enough, and Bet On Me.

Her favourite genres are contemporary romance or romantic suspense, and with an ever growing list of ideas she is trying to keep up with the speed at which her imagination generates them. She also designs book covers on her website M Designs and is the organiser of Virtually There Book Fest.
You can follow Mia on:

Or sign up to her newsletter for the chance to receive ARCs, giveaways, and exclusive content first.


Sunday 4 December 2016

Review ~ Hard Tackle: A Bad Boy Sports Romance by Jessica Ashe

Hard Tackle: A Bad Boy Sports Romance
ebook downloaded for free via Amazon.

Release Date: June 6th 2016

Publisher: Self-published

Description:
It’s my job to keep him out of trouble… He’s not about to make it easy for me. 
Kristi 

I avoid cocky, arrogant men like the plague. Just my luck, I’m now forced to work with one. 

It sounded simple enough – keep tabs on the superstar quarterback Barton Fenner. How difficult would it be to keep him from making an ass out of himself? 

More difficult than I thought. 

Barton’s idea of fun is enough to make me want to run a mile, but that’s easier said than done. I mean, look at him! Resisting temptation is going to take a lot more than I’m prepared to handle. 

Barton 

Her sole job is to spoil my fun. 

The coach wants me to stop getting caught with my hand in the honey pot. Kristi wants me to steer clear of the parties and the revolving door of adoring female fans. 

I don’t know much, but I do know that Kristi is doing something to me – something that will change everything, including my womanizing ways. 

She can try to resist my charms, but if history is proof of anything, she won’t stand a chance.
 
My Opinion

For a freebie this was a quick and easy read that kept me entertained. It was quite a fluffy read, whereby there wasn't too much drama or complicated plot threads. The story was pretty simple, making it a good book to chill out with.

Hard Tackle did hold my interest. While I think some of the scenes could have been expanded upon to make the characters a little less two dimensional, it still kept me engaged. For once I found Barton's arrogance funny. He didn't come across overly serious so it made a nice change of pace from the usual alphas I read about.


Overall, this was a quick and gentle read. It made me smile and was a good way to relax for a few hours.

3.5

Saturday 3 December 2016

Review ~ Say You Want Me by Corinne Michaels

Say You Want Me
ebook purchased by myself.

Release Date: October 31st 2016

Description:
There’s no way I’ll fall for Wyatt Hennington.

He can keep his Southern drawl, irresistible smile, and those pick-up lines all to himself. I made the mistake of sleeping with him not once, but twice. I’m not stupid enough to give him round three, especially after he left me in the middle of the night so I could see myself out. I vow to return to Philadelphia and forget him.

It proves easier said than done.

When the doctor informs me I’m the winner of door prize number two, I put my life on hold and head back to Bell Buckle. Three months and if we can’t make this work, I’m gone.

The problem is—when the cards are stacked against us, and I can’t bring myself to leave him, I’ll finally know if he truly loves me or if all my fears were real . . .

My Opinion

After loving Say You'll Stay earlier this year I needed Wyatt's book. I've had to wait a little longer to buy it, but it didn't disappoint now I've finally read it.

Wyatt's book is an emotional roller coaster of highs and lows. The book plays on extremes and took me from smiling at what the characters said and then ripping my heart out. I enjoyed the story and I couldn't put it down.

Saying that, I still preferred book one. These characters didn't fully connect with me all the time. I felt something small was missing--but I have no idea what.


Overall, this was another great read by this author. I'd definitely recommend the series. Technically it could be read as a standalone, but I'd suggest starting with book 1.

4

Friday 2 December 2016

Review ~ Transfer (The Retrieval Duet, #2) by Aly Martinez

Transfer (The Retrieval Duet, #2)
ebook purchased by myself.

Release Date: September 27th 2016

Publisher: Self-published

Description:
One story. Two couples.

I fell in love with a man who didn’t exist.

What started out as romance ended in hell.
His words turned to razor blades.
His kisses converted to fists. 
His embrace became my cage.
His body transformed into a weapon, stealing parts of me until ultimately….
I broke. 

I hated him.
My sole job in life became to protect our daughter.

I wasn’t sure I’d ever escape the prison he’d skillfully crafted from my fears. 
Until the day our savior arrived. 

This is the story of how I escaped the man who thought he owned me.
The transfer of my life and my family.

My Opinion

I had to start this book the second I finished book one. It's taken me a bit longer to finish than I anticipated thanks to life's crazy schedule, but I thought it was a good conclusion.

Transfer picks up right where book one ends. However, the majority of this book is told from Clare or Heath's point of view with the odd Roman and Elisabeth chapter thrown in for balance. I liked this flip as it developed Clare and Heath more. We got to learn about Elisabeth and Roman in book one, and they're still an important factor in Transfer. However, I thought it was clever decision by the author to flip things to create four well-rounded characters by the end of the duet. It made things more interesting and helped move the story along.

As for the plot, I did enjoy the book. Those of you who follow my blog will know I love darker reads every now and then. With Walter's evilness, this book definitely got dark in some places. I will admit I did feel the ending lacked something, it didn't feel as dramatic as I would have liked and it was all over a little quickly. Regardless, Transfer still engaged me and kept me hooked.


Overall this was a good conclusion to the duet. I'd definitely recommend both books.

4

Thursday 1 December 2016

Review ~ Retrieval (The Retrieval Duet, #1) by Aly Martinez

Retrieval (The Retrieval Duet, #1)
ebook purchased by myself.

Release Date: September 13th 2016

Publisher: Self-published

Description:
One story. Two couples.

I proposed on our first date. 
She laughed and told me I was insane. Less than a day later, she said yes.
It was a whirlwind, but we were happy… 
Until we got greedy and wanted a family.

It was a life I couldn’t give her, not for lack of trying. Fertility just wasn’t on our side. We sought out doctors and treatments. Spent money we didn’t have. Lied to our families. Smiled for our friends. Put on a brave face for a world that didn’t understand.
Finally, we were successful…
Until we were forced to bury our son.

We were left broken, battered, and destroyed.
They say love is in the details, but it was the details that ruined us.

This is the story of how I took back what had always been mine.
The retrieval of my wife and our family.

My Opinion

This has been on my wish list for a while. I've heard great things about it and since the blog tour I've been kicking myself over not signing up for an ARC. I have no idea why I overlooked these books and disregarded them as something not for me. Maybe the blurb didn't sell me enough of the story.

Anyway, thank you iTunes gift card! I've finally been able to buy this book and I can see what people have been talking about.

I'm not going to say too much as I want to get on to starting book 2 immediately. However, Retrieval was a complex story written from three points of view. There are two couples in the POV and I thought they linked well and the writing was beautiful. Everything flowed and I couldn't put this book down. It was engaging, had a touch of emotion, and a hint of suspense thrown in. I didn't expect what I got and it was a good surprise.


Overall I'm moving on to book 2. I need to find out what happens next and I'd definitely recommend this book.

5

Wednesday 30 November 2016

Review ~ BEND (Vegas Heat, #1) by Molly McLain

BEND (Vegas Heat, #1)
eARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: November 27th 2016

Publisher: Self-published

Description:

The Hardass
Focused and in control at all times. Most people think I’m a prick—and I’ll be the first to admit that’s probably true. But I’d rather be a take-no-shit cop than the kind of man genetics says I should be. You break the law, you pay the price. I don’t give a damn if you’re the captain’s daughter or the Queen of friggin’ England.

The Princess
I have no patience for the cocky men my father oversees. Or maybe it’s just Sergeant Hardass who gets under my skin. Not only is he sexy as sin, he refuses to cut me a break. And now I have to work with the arrogant jerk.

I shouldn’t want him, but a secret part of me craves his unforgiving edge. He could give me everything I need, but, first, I have to break down his walls.

I have to make him bend.

My Opinion

For a short read there was definitely a lot packed into this book. I'm by no means new to this author, so I knew what I should be getting from her books, and I couldn't wait to get my hands on this when I saw it up on NetGalley.

BEND was a hot read that kept me hooked from start to finish. It had great chemistry and an interesting plot that was easy to follow and engage with. I liked the fight in both characters and the fact resistance was futile. Like I said, there was definitely a spark there.


Overall, another great read by this author. I'll definitely be looking out for more in this series.

4

Sunday 27 November 2016

Review ~ Jax by J.L. Perry

JaxeARC received via a tour company in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: November 27th 2016

Publisher: Hachette

Description:
JAX

My name is Jaxson Albright. To my friends I’m known as Jax. I’m the disgraced son of well-known Politician, Malcom Albright. You could say I was born with a silver spoon in my mouth. I was supposed to follow in my father’s footsteps and move into politics. My whole childhood was spent being groomed for this role, but that wasn’t what I wanted. I had other plans.

To my family’s disgust, I’m inked, I’m pierced and I own and run a tattoo parlour, in Sydney. I fit in here. I can be the man I was destined to be, the man my family are ashamed of. The son they regret having. 

I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for my saviour, Candice. My pink-haired angel. We grew up in the same circle, but like me, she’s an outcast. She refused to conform to society’s ways. She’s the only one who stuck by me and not only encouraged, but supported my dream. 

I love her. No, correction—I’m in love with her. I have been for as long as I can remember. She has no idea how I feel. It’s a battle I struggle with daily. I’ve kept my secret all these years because I couldn’t risk losing her. That’s a chance I’m not prepared to take, because she’s my best friend; my only real family. 

I’ve spent the last few years moving from one hot chick to the next, trying to mask these feeling I have. But it doesn’t help—I can’t get her out of my head. She still owns my damn heart.

How do you get over the girl you know you can never have? And how do you live without the one person on this earth who was made for you? 

She’s my soulmate.

My Opinion

I loved this book. When it arrived on my Kindle I had to dive in straight away. However, due to the longer length I assumed it would take me a few days to get through since my schedule is crazy right now. I should have known better.

As soon as I started Jax I couldn't put it down. It had me up until 2am where I finally admitted I needed sleep at 50%. Needless to say, the first thing I did when I woke up was dive back into Jax's story and I didn't stop reading until I finished. I now have a pile of work that's built up, but it was definitely worth it.

Jax was adorable. He was a genuine, loving guy and I fell for him hard. Despite his crappy family, he's so compassionate and gentle. I believed in his emotions the entire way through and I really felt for him. Similarly, I liked Candice's toughness. Although their situation was predictable, I loved watching it unfold.

This story is just heartwarming and beautiful. It held my interest, engaged with me emotionally, and I couldn't put it down.


Overall, I loved this just as much as Bastard. It's been awhile since I read Carter's story, but this book brought it all back. I'd definitely recommend!


5




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Author Bio

**VOTED BEST NEW AUTHOR FOR 2014 IN AUSROM TODAY'S READERS CHOICE AWARDS**

J L Perry is a mother and a wife. She was born in Sydney, Australia in 1972, and has lived there her whole life. Her love of reading, from a young age, gave her the passion to write. My Destiny was originally written for her sister, in 2013. It was never intended to be published. However, after finishing this book, she felt there was still a lot of Brooke and Logan's story left to tell. This inspired her to write My Forever. With the encouragement of her family and friends, she decided to follow her dream and become a published Author.

That dream was realised on the 6th of June, 2014.

My Destiny is her debut novel in the Destiny Series. My Forever is the conclusion to this book. Her third book Damaged - Jacinta's Story was released October 15th, 2014. This is a stand alone book, but is based on a character in My Forever. Her fourth book Against All Odds, is a stand alone book, as well, but part of the Destiny Series. Due to be released on the 27th May, 2015. She's also currently writing a fifth book, a standalone, that will be released later in the year. It's called 'A Beautiful Bastard'. This is NOT part of the Destiny Series.

J L's love of romance and happy endings makes a perfect combination when it comes to writing her beautiful love stories.

Her hobbies include reading, writing, drinking wine, shopping, listening to music, and anything artistic or creative. She loves spending time with her family, friends and her dog when she isn't writing. She also loves being outdoors and travelling and exploring the world.



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