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Showing posts with label Book Review. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Book Review. Show all posts

Saturday, December 20, 2014

New Release Gibson's Legacy by K L Shandwick

★★★New Release★★★

Gibson's Legacy Book Cover

Title: Gibson’s Legacy

Author: K.L. Shandwick

Genre: Adult Contemporary Romance

Date of Publication: December 19, 2014

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About Gibson’s Legacy

Gibson Barclay has been famous for almost seven years and he's only twenty four.

Seldom does anyone pick up a magazine, newspaper or watch a television entertainment show, without seeing his image or reading about his promiscuous antics. He had no need to court publicity with his magnetic charm and charismatic ways; when he chooses to cooperate that is. Shrugging off the advice of publicists and image consultants, Gibson makes no excuses for who he is, and with no ties, he answers to no one about how he chooses to live his life.

From teenage musician to twenties mega rock star, Gibson has seen and done it all. Women fantasize about him and men envy his rock scene, womanizing lifestyle. Only one person ever made Gibson feel uncomfortable about the way he lived his life. No one ever said no to him that he can remember, although there was two minute events that he has never been able to shake from his mind. Both of those events involved the way Chloe Jenner looked at him. It was something and nothing, but for him, the impact haunted him. In the strangest twist of fate, something so wildly obscure occurred, that set his mind ablaze with the memory of that small encounter.

Like all women, Chloe found Gibson striking and had even shared with friends, her own guilty fantasy about him. Fantasy and reality were poles apart and Chloe believed that Gibson Barclay never even knew that she existed.

*Adult Contemporary Romance – Due to strong language and sexual content, this book is not suitable for readers under the age of eighteen.*

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Buy Links

Gibson's Legacy Amazon US | Gibson's Legacy Amazon UK

Gibson's Legacy Amazon CA | Gibson's Legacy Amazon AU

Excerpt

Hands invaded my body space and ran up and across my pectorals, my head dropping to see what she was doing. She glided her palms around and under my arms, until they stopped on both scapula bones on my back. Stroking me, she smiled suggestively and continued to trail downwards toward my ass, and by the time I made eye contact with her, she was so close her hot panting breaths were fanning over my face. Groupies had no shame. Then again, I was so fucking wired after the gig, I needed something to bring me down, and an easy fuck meant I didn’t have to be charming or polite to anyone. This girl knew the score and she was begging for it.

©2014 K.L. Shandwick – ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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Connect with K.L. Shandwick

Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Spotify

Amazon | Goodreads

About the Author

K.L. Shandwick lives on the outskirts of London. She started writing after a challenge by a friend when she commented on a book she read. The result of this was “The Everything Trilogy.” Her background has been mainly in the health and social care sector in the U.K. She is still currently a freelance or self- employed professional in this field. Her books tend to focus on the relationships of the main characters. Writing is a form of escapism for her and she is just as excited to find out where her characters take her as she is when she reads another author’s work.

For more details, please visit K.L. Shandwick's website.

Gibson's Legacy (Last Score, #1)Gibson's Legacy by K.L. Shandwick
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

First let me just say WOW!!!! This is an amazing book. Gibson Barclay is one hot rock star. His band M3rcy plays at a local college bar. Chloe works there and has encountered him and a groupie one too many times. Gibson not being shy continues his workouts every time while an embarrassed Chloe runs and hides. Sometimes the strangest things happen for a reason. Chloe and Gibson’s story definitely that. This book will tug on your heart strings and get you hot and bothered. KL Shandwick has created a hot rock star for everyone’s enjoyment. It is impossible to not fall for Gibson and feel Chloe’s pain and fear. A well written story about fame, love, heartbreak, and things that sometimes are just meant to be.Gibson's Legacy

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Thursday, March 20, 2014

Book Blast, Giveaway & Review ~ Captured by the Pirate Laird by @amyjarecki

Captured by the Pirate Laird Banner 450 x 169

 

 

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clip_image002Captured by the Pirate Laird

Highland Force

Book One

Amy Jarecki

Genre: Scottish Historical Romance

Date of Publication: 2/17/14

ISBN:

ASIN:

Number of pages: 342

Word Count: 96,600

Cover Artist: Kim Killion

Amazon

 

Book Description:

Wed by proxy to a baron old enough to be her grandfather, Lady Anne trudges up the gangway of a galleon that will deliver her into the arms of a tyrant. Crestfallen, she believes her disastrous life cannot get worse—until she awakes to the blasts of cannon fire.

Facing certain death, Anne trembles in her stateroom while swords clash and the chilling screams of battle rage on the deck above. When a rugged Highlander kicks in her door, she prays for a swift end.

But Laird Calum MacLeod has a reason for plundering the ship—and it’s not a stunning English lass. With no other choice, he takes Anne to his crumbling keep on the isle of Raasay and sends a letter of ransom to her husband. In time, Anne grows to understand MacLeod’s plight and finds it increasingly difficult to resist Calum’s unsettling charm—until the baron sends a reply agreeing to terms.

Ripped from passion that will be forever seared into their souls, will Anne and Calum risk everything for love?

 

excerpt

She turned and caught him staring. He bowed and his heart melted when she smiled—a smile with dimples that could light up the horizon. He half expected Anne to turn up her pert little nose and head the other way.

Before he could persuade himself otherwise, Calum pattered down the steps and stood beside her. She watched the sunset and her warmth pulled him close like a magnet.

“’Tis beautiful,” she said when the sky shone with orange and pink, highlighted against the strips of clouds that sailed toward the ship.

He inhaled. Her scent ever so feminine, Calum inclined his head to capture more of it. “Aye, milady.”

She placed her hand on the rail. Again his reflexes took over and he rested his palm atop it. Calum expected her to snatch it away, but she did not. Her fingers were cold and he held his much warmer hand there as a comfort. They stood in silence as the sun glowed orange-red on the horizon. He wanted to stand there forever—touching her. Barely breathing, he watched the sun disappear and held his hand still, unwilling to move it.

The sun was replaced by darkness. Lady Anne slipped her hand out from under his and the dark of the evening took up residence inside him. She was not his to lust after. “May I walk you to your stateroom?”

“Yes.” Her voice sounded husky. Had she felt the connection too? Of course not.

Calum offered his arm and that same small, cold hand grasped it. “We’ll arrive at Raasay in the morning.”

“Our destination?”

“Aye.”

“Bran told me.”

Secrets were impossible to keep on a ship. “I will send a letter of ransom to yer husband upon our arrival.” He didn’t like how that sounded—ye are my prisoner until Lord Wharton pays for your release. But that’s how it had to be. If he sailed up the mouth of the River Aln, he would incite yet another war between Scotland and England—and this time his countrymen might side with the enemy.

When they stepped into the corridor, warm air relaxed the tension in his shoulders.

Anne stopped outside her cabin door, breasts straining against her bodice with every breath. “I’ve never met him.”

Calum forced himself to concentrate on her face. “Who?”

“Lord Wharton.”

“What? How?”

“We were wed by proxy. My uncle made the arrangements.”

Ah Jesus. Calum understood the way of highborn marriages, arranged for the trade of lands and riches. “Ye ken he’s old enough to be your father?”

“He’s three times my age plus one year to be exact. His children are older than I.”

A hundred questions flooded his mind. “Why?” he clipped with shocked disbelief.

Anne nodded as if fully understanding his monosyllabic inquiry. “I’m told the Baron fancied me from across Westminster Abbey during the Queen’s coronation.”

“No.” She doesn’t even know the bastard. That’s why she wears no ring.

“Yes. My uncle said he kissed my hand, yet so many lords greeted me on that trip to London, I’m at a loss to place him.”

The despair in her lovely eyes twisted around his heart. “Mayhap ye will remember if we playact it.” With a halfcocked grin, Calum reached for her hand. His mouth went dry when her silken skin met the rough pads of his fingertips. Though a grown woman, her fingers were fine and delicate.

When she didn’t pull away, he moistened his lips and bowed. Hovering above her hand, the soft scent of honeysuckle mixed with her—the unmistakable scent of woman now more captivating than it had been on the deck—ignited his insides as if she stood naked before him. Closing his eyes, he touched his lips to the back of her hand and kissed. Anne’s sharp inhale made his skin shiver with gooseflesh. She did not try to pull away but remained so still, her pulse beat a fierce rhythm beneath.

Calum held his lips there longer than necessary. He wanted this moment to linger. He wanted a memory he could cherish long after she was gone. His eyes locked with hers as he straightened. Her lips parted slightly, almost as if asking him to kiss her mouth, but he knew she wouldn’t want that.

He stood for a moment not saying a word. She did too.

“Any recollection?” His voice rasped.

“No.” Her voice low, she then blinked as if snapping back to the present. “You mustn’t ever do that again.”

“Apologies, milady.” Grinning, he opened her door and bowed, though he did not regret her lack of recall.

Anne stepped into her stateroom. Calum could not pull his gaze away until the door closed and blocked the bewilderment reflected in her sapphire eyes. Calum waited a moment and stared at the hardwood door—the same one he had kicked in five nights ago. What the hell was he doing?

He ground his teeth and headed back to the quarterdeck. He needed to get the lady out of his life. She was not his to care for. Worst of all, she had wed the enemy.

review

 

Captured by the Pirate Laird (Highland Force, #1)Captured by the Pirate Laird by Amy Jarecki
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Review by Karen

Amazing Scottish read!

Lady Anne’s is on her way to meet her new husband, she has never met him before because her uncle married her off to him without even asking her permission. She was wedded under proxy, to a man that could have been her grandfather and his known for his attacks on Scotland and their people.

Scared but not having much of a choice Anne is on her way to him with the ship The Flying Swan. She fears her future but is determined to honor her family’s name and obey her uncle.

“She would prove herself worthy to the baron’s estate just as she had done at Titchfield House. His lordship might be old, but he’d discover he had married far more than a pretty courtier. Anne steadied her breath and repeated her title, “Baroness of Wharton.” Married to a stranger nine and thirty years her senior.”

But her journey towards an unknown future is about to take a detour, the Flying Swan is captured by pirates, and not just any pirates, Scottish pirates. When Anne meets the captain of this crusade she is taken back by his size and strength. What would become of her in the hands of savages?

“Hinges gave way and the door clattered to the deck.
A rugged man stared through the dimly lit doorway. Sword drawn, with a cropped copper beard, he glared at her with fierce, steely eyes. She was certain he could kill her with that look.
Anne held up her knife, shaking like a sapling in the wind.
“Holy Mother Mary.” He clattered across the door and sheathed his sword. “What in the blazes are ye doing here?”


Laird Calum Macleod expected to find loot for his starving people on The Flying Swan, he never thought to find a lady on board, abandoned by the fleeing crew. At first uncertain of what to-do with the woman, Calum discovers that she is of a wealthy family and decides to bargain her save return, and feed his people at the same time. But as time moved on and Anne is in his presence and around his people, things starts to change for the Laird. She is capturing his heart and he can’t stop her.

“Hot yearning swirled beneath his kilt while he languidly smoothed kisses along the length of that silken arm. Anne’s muffled groan sent him undone. The thickening beneath his kilt shot to rigid. He stepped in and gazed down upon her lovely face. “I want to kiss ye.”


When the two discover their true feelings for each other, the impending doom that goes with it destroys all hope. She must be returned or war would fall upon his already suffering people. Two hearts torn by responsibly, honor and undeniably love.

At one stage I feared that Scottish romance novels where becoming extinct, but with authors like Amy out there I can say that we are still in for a great adventures filled with every emotion possible. While reading this novel I was drawn into an amazing story, and didn’t even try to fight back. Amy’s writing style was relaxing and her descriptive detail ensured that I could see everything down to the last hair. As for emotions, what a rollercoaster. While reading I experienced everything humanly possible. Humor, despair, love, hope, anger all weaved into a beautiful and exciting plot. There were moments when I dreaded turning the page, in fear that this author would break my heart. She had mercy in the end, but the journey towards it was extraordinary and heartbreaking. I will be following this series, and I hope and pray that it is just the first of many to come. I believe that this would become one of those series where twenty books wouldn’t even be enough to satisfy the hunger for more.


View all my reviews

 

giveaway

 

10 eBook copies Captured by the Pirate Laird by Amy Jarecki

2 signed print copies open to US Shipping

4 SWAG packets each including a $5 Amazon gift card open to US Shipping

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

abouttheauthor

 

 

clip_image004Amy has won multiple writing awards and lives in Utah with her husband, Bob. She writes contemporary romance and Scottish historical romance. For fun, she hikes, bikes and plays a mean game of golf. Born in California, Amy holds an MBA from Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, Scotland.

Web site: http://www.amyjarecki.com/

Blog: http://amyjarecki.blogspot.com

Twitter: @amyjarecki

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amyjarecki

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5306959.Amy_Jarecki

Thursday, March 6, 2014

Review: 5 Stars for The Garnet Dagger by Andrea Cooper

 

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The Garnet Dagger

 

Blurb: Everyone knows what happens when a vampire bites a human…but what if the victim is Elvin?

Forbidden to cross the Elvin barrier into human lands, Brock cannot sate his curiosity. Cursed by a vampyre bite that forces him to feed on the life-essence of others, he is unable to touch another without taking their life. Chained by prophesy, he must find a witch, pierce her heart, and draw her blood for his cure.
Celeste must escape the monks who have held her prisoner for years. Her magic has been kept dormant by her captors. An ancient powerful Warloc craves her powers. If he succeeds in devouring her magic, she and his world will die.
When Brock falls in love with Celeste before realizing her demise is his cure, will love triumph over his desire to be healed? Will he risk everything to save her from a Warloc, an oath breaker, who also wants her dead?

The Garnet Dagger Excerpt: Chapter One (condensed)

I’ve known death. For over half a millennia, I escorted many to death at the end of my sword. In the eyes of the dying, I watched it shroud them. Foolishly, I thought many more eras would pass before death came for me. It came so swiftly that I could not run; I could not escape. At a village, dressed in human clothes, I took in everything.

I delayed my return to my people as I watched human jugglers bounce torches and knifes. It was autumn equinox and the festivities would continue well into the night. Children laughed as they chased each other. A trail of leaves from their costumes twirled after them. It was dark when I reached the forest.

I hiked slower than my normal speed, so as not to startle whatever human called out. My leather boots crunched upon dried, diseased leaves and bark. Horrified, I glanced up. Branches twisted around each other to suffocating. Lifeless limbs cracked in the wind. Flesh of the trees sloughed off in layers, exposing its bones. Gashes hollowed out chunks of warmth. Fragments of leaves clung to finger tips, marking sepulchers of the dying trees. Trees mourned with wails like splitting wood, and I brought my hands over my ears. I must flee before I became infected, they told me. Flee before the stain of this defilement creeps into you, they warned. Trees spoke to my kind, always had. Yet these trees were in such agony of death that I could not breathe. Felt as though my lungs had folded in on themselves, like a moth unable to break loose from its cocoon.

Cooper, Andrea R. (2013-03-25). The Garnet Dagger (Crimson Romance) (Kindle Locations 60-67). F+W Media. Kindle Edition.

The Garnet Dagger Amazon: http://goo.gl/rMEJ59

The Garnet Dagger B & N: http://goo.gl/Qp5i6A

The Garnet Dagger iTunes: http://goo.gl/s1Cugp

http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17364172-the-garnet-dagger

The Garnet Dagger Book Trailer http://youtu.be/ISi0u9LoseM

abouttheauthor

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Growing up in Houston, Texas, Andrea has always created characters and stories. But it wasn't until she was in her late twenties that she started writing novels.

What happened that ignited the writing flame in her fingers? Divorced, and disillusioned by love songs and stories. They exaggerate. She thought. Love and Romance are not like that in the real world. Then she met her husband and realized, yes love and romance are exactly like the songs and stories say. She is now a happy wife, and a mom to three kids (two boys and a girl).

Andrea writes paranormal and historical romance. When not writing or reading, one may find Andrea dancing in Zumba.

She believes in the power of change and counting each moment as a blessing. But most importantly, she believes in love.

 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AndreaRCooper.author

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AndreaRCooper

Author Website: www.AndreaRCooper.com

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6934877.Andrea_R_Cooper

Blog: http://andrearcooperauthorblog.wordpress.com/

 

review The Garnet DaggerThe Garnet Dagger by Andrea R. Cooper
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Review by Karen
Amazing!

Brock, an elf, have grown up without knowing that his bloodline was part of a prophecy. When the prophecy finally came for Brock, it took away everything he knew. An outcast, Brock is given one chance to try and save himself and his world. He must find a witch and with the garnet dagger, spill her blood upon the earth and free the world of the curse that is him.

Brock ventures out into the world and searches for this witch. He searches amongst children, as the prophecy says that she would still be young, still be child. But as the months past and Brock’s curse rains havoc, he can’t find her.

Until he was captured by an insane priest determined to rid the world of everything magical, including Brock. He finds a young girl, and with her help escaped to continue his search. But the young woman have joined him in his journey, and as time passes he falls madly in love with her. But when Brock finally find the witch he needs to slay, his world tumbles into chaos. Would he be able to sacrifice his heart to save his people? Or would he destroy earth to save the woman he loves?

What an amazing adventure! I was glued to the pages from start to finish. Cooper have created an amazing adventure filled with betrayal, love, anger, loss and so much more. Following Brock’s journey I fell madly in love with this character. Brock is a fine warrior and a decent being, all he wants is to rid the world of the curse that have befallen him. The more his journey continued the more my heart bled for him. When Brock finally meets Celeste I was so relieved for him. But Cooper made sure that this part of the journey became even crazier. Celeste is no nitwit child, having survived all these years under constant torture she is more determined to end the evil that took her family. When two strong warriors meets you just know that the story is going to turn into an epic battle between duty and love. I was not disappointed. Coopers writing style was perfect and I had no trouble at all to fall into pace and keep up with the story. An amazing adventure that you really need to read. Well-deserved 5 Stars from me.


View all my reviews

Monday, March 3, 2014

Book Blitz & Review: Passion From The Vine by @Shannon79396996

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clip_image002Passion From The Vine

Shannon Casey

Genre: Erotic Romance

ISBN: 978-1-4918-2508-2

ISBN: 978-1-4918-2509-9

ASIN: 2013918106

Number of pages: 188

Word Count: 55,045

Amazon BN

Book Description:

Izzy, a woman shattered by the man who was supposed to protect and cherish her, sets out on a journey to mend her broken heart and discovers a passion greater than she had ever imagined.

Valentino, a man driven to expand his family’s empire and bury his own tormented past, finds a desire that runs deeper than the vines he tends.

Enthralled with each other, Izzy and Valentino want a real relationship but can’t let go of their painful pasts. Izzy, seeks her independence while still trying to hold onto Valentino, but he will not settle for pieces of her love and halfhearted trust. Will these two broken souls, who were brought together by fate and bound by an irresistible attraction, be strong enough to overcome their own insecurities and give love a chance.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18771385-passion-from-the-vine

Excerpt:

When I entered the dining room I feel a moment of despair as he isn’t there. Then he appears from the opposite door and my heart skips a beat. He has taken the time to change into black slacks, a white button down shirt and a black tie. He looks like an ad from a magazine that is selling elegant sex. As he approaches me it’s like watching a Black Panther move towards its prey, so beautiful and yet so dangerous but I can’t walk away. He holds two glasses of wine and offers one to me. I take it and immediately drink it down, trying to find the courage to play his game. I’m relieved when he takes my arm and leads me to the table because I’m too distracted by my own thoughts to worry about food. He pulls the chair out for me and slides me in. Taking the seat beside me he somehow makes the large dining table more intimate.

Maria enters with several dishes and looks at me with a knowing smiling. She has went all out and prepared a full Italian dinner for us. There’s enough food for a small army. Our first course, called L’antipasto was an assortment of meats, cheeses, olives and bread. I take a bite of cheese and find Valentino watching me with a hungry look on his face. He takes an olive from the tray and places it against my lips. “Let me feed you”. I opened my mouth and take the olive in, gently running my tongue along his fingers as I do. I feel his intake of breath more than hear it and it’s like an aphrodisiac. I reciprocate by taking cheese and placing it in his mouth. As he chews I have the overwhelming need to run my fingers along his lip line. His eyes are hot and all for me. I can’t believe this magnificent creature wants me this much.

Before long the second course, la prima piatta is delivered. Maria has made pici pasta with pork sauce paired with a Chainti wine. I sip my wine and feel the familiar warming in my stomach. It’s a heady combination the wine and his sent, but I make sure not to drink too much. As we eat our pasta he comments, “You eat with gusto just like you do everything else, I love that about you”.

I feel a little embarrassment by his words, I have always loved food the different textures and tastes. I know I’m not a petite woman and at times I have felt too voluptuous for American men. He seems to read my mind as he places his hand on my thigh and whispered, “I love your curves, you are a real woman and I intend to explore each curve tonight”. His words make me instantly wet and wanting. I am no longer focused on the food as I look into his eyes and know that he is thinking about fucking me. I reach my hand under the table and begin to draw circles on his inner thigh. He shifts in his seat and I smile.

At that moment Maria brings out the main course or la seconda piatta which is braised beef with vegetables. It is paired with Barolo, a deep strong red wine. As we eat I continued to inch up his thigh and run my finger along his growing erection. His hand which has been resting on my thigh begins inching down. When he reaches the hem of my dress, he slowly slides up my leg until he reaches the top of my lace stockings where his hand bites into my thigh. I can no longer eat as his hand gently slides up to the junction of my thighs and his finger skims my wanting lips through my lace panties. He slides his finger beneath my thong and finds me wet. I see him smile from the corner of my eye, “I love that you are always wet for me. Let’s skip dessert you are all the sweetness I need”. I am up in a second practically coming from his words and the flick of his finger against my clit.

We practically ran up the stairs to my suite. As the door closes behind us he kneels before me and commands “lift your foot”. I do as he demands as he removes one shoe and then the other. “You're so perfect. I wish you could see you through my eyes”, he pants as he runs his hands up my legs. When he reaches the bottom of my dress he grabs the hem and slowly slips it over my head. He reaches out and runs his hands through my thick black hair, following it down to my waste. His hands don’t stop there, but continue to glide over my hips.

Wrapping his hands around my waste he pulls me against him for a passionate kiss. He seems intent on being in control and keeping the pace slow and seductive. “Let me lead you, I want to make you come over and over again”, he says in a controlled voice.

Yes, my mind screams but I just look into his intense green eyes. “Your eyes have bewitched me, there like amber and gold swirled together”, he says in a whispered voice.

“Me, you fill all my waking thoughts. You look like a Roman God that’s come to life”, I say between gasps of pleasure.

For a moment he looks angry, “It’s just looks”. Then the moment has passed and he’s touching me again. He reaches out and traces my lips, along my chin and down my neck. He gently circles my breasts and then pulls the lace down to pull my nipples with his fingers. My back arches in response as he encircles my left nipple with his mouth and sucks. I’m so turned on and ready for more. I try to press my body against his to create more friction but he holds me back, “slow” he growls “I’m in charge tonight”.

I still immediately and wait for him to continue. He torments each breast and then slides lower, licking across my stomach and down to the tops of my panties. He presses his palm against my mound and I can’t help but push back I’m so turned on. No one has ever tormented me this way. He keeps my thong on and licks between my folds through the fabric. The feeling is sensual and instantly has we dripping. He pulls my panties to the side and licks my wetness. I’m panting and grab him by the hair as I push against his mouth. He pushes back against the wall for support as my knees become weak. He flicks my clit with his tongue and I almost come. But then he moves down my wet pussy to suck and pull at my entrance inserting his tongue inside my wanting cunt. I push against him and my hips move of their own accord. He runs a finger through my folds to gather my wetness and then inserts two fingers into my hungry opening. His tongue returns to my clit and circles it. I pull his hair and pump against his beautiful mouth as I scream my release. I collapse against him and realize he’s still fully clothed.

 

review

Passion From The VinePassion From The Vine by Shannon Casey
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Review by Tanya

Izzy was planning a special first anniversary for her husband mark...but not only did he forget he wanted a divorce! Izzy's mom was a very successful marriage /sex therapist so after being ripped apart, her mother came to the rescue by sending her on a very interesting holiday to find her own true self, beauty and to be more in touch with her sexual side... and Ellie was the one who was going to help her with that! Ellie was a friend of Izzy's mom who lived in London...
After spending a few weeks in London and making a new friend, Izzy was on her way to Rome...She was going to stay there for a while to rebuild everything she lost in New York. And boy did she rebuild everything....lol! So being in Rome she lived in the house of her mother’s husband Federico Rizzo who passed away, a field full of grapes...a winery! Never did she know that she would fall in love, she wasn’t even thinking about love after what mark did...but meeting Valentino changed that...he changed how she looked, how she feels, how she felt about herself and most importantly he was a romantic sex god and drop dead gorgeous....just the thought of him made Izzy..............

I really did enjoy reading the book, for me it is based on true emotions and feelings together with real life. I really enjoyed the character Valentino, for me as a woman he makes me believe in love and lust in a very romantic way. Weird way but satisfying way.

I would really recommend this book for all the ladies and even the dudes would enjoy reading this one.
HAPPY READING!!


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abouttheauthor

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Shannon Casey was born in Turlock, California, the second oldest of eight children. Being the only girl she had to use her imagination to entertain herself. She was also a tom boy who never let the fact that she was a girl slow her down. She learned to ride horses better than the boys and practiced her hand at roping and barrel racing.

She married her high school sweet heart during her senior year and became a mother at seventeen, but she didn’t let that slow her down. Her daughter became her motivation to obtain her college degree and create a better life for them. Shannon graduated from CSU Stanislaus in 1997 and soon after had her second daughter. She went on to obtain two master degrees in psychology, two credentials and a private license.

During her career as a psychologist she never gave up her dream of becoming an author, but as the years passed she never found the time to actually write. Like most people, the daily grind and spending time with her children took precedence over her desire to create.

Then she met her second husband, Corey Casey, through her older brother Anthony. They married in March 2008. When her son was born in July 2009 it was the perfect time for her to cut her hours to part time. Corey inspired her to pick up her pen and write, telling her that she would never know unless she tried. Since that time, she has written her first novel, traveled and found her creative outlet.

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Passion-from-the-Vine/601582543233746

https://www.facebook.com/shannon.casey.750546

http://www.amazon.com/Shannon-Casey/e/B00H5CDSOG/

Twitter: @Shannon79396996

Tuesday, February 25, 2014

Book Blast, Review, Top Ten & Giveaway~ Afternoon Delights by @Anchorgrouppub

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Title: Afternoon Delights, Anthology

Authors : Elise Marion, Karen Swart, Emily Fogle, Elizabeth Marx, Elizabeth Kirke, LP Dover, Kimberly Larson, Jenna Pizzi, Morgan Black.

Genre: Romance (from Contemporary Romance to Erotica)
Audience: Adult
Formats: E-book
Publisher: Anchor Group Publishing
Cover By: Sprinkles On Top Studios
Editor: Melissa Ringsted
Pages: 130 pages
ISBN-10:
ISBN-13: 978 -1310345180
ASIN: B00IDE0ICU
Date Published: Feb 12, 2014



 




 

Blurb-
Afternoon Delights is just the perfect size for a literary nooner! Nine short stories to tease your senses, from sweet and romantic, to hot and heavy. Get a taste of why these authors are well known for their romance.
 
 
 
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excerpt
From Sabella -
Although I tried to avert my gaze, I couldn't bring myself to look away from his beautiful eyes. They pulled me in from the chaos like a lifeline. In the dark blue sea of endless comfort, I was calm and at peace. The last two days of confusion and the whirlwind of emotions were all settled in his eyes.
 
From The CEO’s Wife-
Blair paused just outside the door to Evan’s office, her heart hammering in her chest. Just on the other side was her husband—her very rich, powerful, sexy husband. When had she become intimidated by him? When had the thought of initiating sex with him become something to worry over as opposed to something fun and sensual?
When she realized she might lose him, that’s when. And now, it seemed like everything depended on what she did next. She needed to prove to Evan that she still wanted him, that she would do whatever it took to save their drowning marriage. She swallowed past the ball of nerves lodged in her throat and placed her hand on the knob. His secretary had told her that Evan was alone in there and had no more meetings until after lunch. Now was her window of opportunity. Yesterday, he’d gone into a hotel with another woman. A slip up she was willing to forgive him for just this once. After she rocked his world, of course. Remind him who he chose, she told herself for the millionth time. Don’t let him get away.
She turned the knob and squared her shoulders, remembering her practiced seduction as she strode into the room, locking the door behind her. Determination kept her chin high and her expression sultry. Confidence swung her hips as she sauntered across the large office. Evan, who had been having a heated conversation on the phone, dropped the handset. Mouth hanging open, he stood. His eyes were wide as they took in her short, blunt blonde bob, fully made up face, black trench coat, and knee-high leather black boots. The heels clicked across the tiles as she came in front of his desk, pausing to strike a pose; legs spread, one hand on her hip.
“Blair?” He smiled. “What have you done to yourself?”
Blair caressed the strands of her bob and smiled. “It’s not what I’ve done to me,” she purred, “it’s more about what I’m going to do to you.”
Evan’s grin widened as he fumbled for the dropped phone. “Carl? Let me call you back.”
Without waiting for a response, he dropped the phone into the cradle and rounded the desk. Blair stopped him before he could grab her with a hand on the middle of his chest. She needed to maintain control of the situation and couldn’t afford to let him touch her just yet. Those hands of his had always driven her wild.
She grasped his silk, blue and grey striped tie and yanked, pulling him behind her toward the desk. He followed happily, his hard body brushing up against hers.
“I don’t know what’s gotten into you, but I like it,” he murmured as she turned him, pushing him to sit on the edge of his desk. He reached behind him, shoving papers and files out of the way and obediently perching on the large piece of furniture.
“I seem to remember you always wanted to have sex in here,” she said as she reached for the belt holding her coat together. When Evan was newly promoted to CEO, he’d wanted to celebrate by taking her in the office, but Blair had refused. She’d been worried that someone would catch them, hear them, think she was trashy for doing it. Now she didn’t give a damn what anyone thought. If Evan wanted sex in his office then he was going to get it. From her. “I take it that’s still a fantasy of yours?”
Blair snatched her coat open, revealing the corset, thong, and stockings beneath. They were black and trimmed in red, Evan’s favorite color. His lower lip disappeared between his teeth at the sight, zeroing in on her breasts—which were displayed gloriously in the cups of the corset top.
“Hell yes.”
 
From My Beloved, Marie -
I reached down and squeezed the water from the washcloth. “Please don’t, Jacob. I don’t look pretty anymore,” she sobbed. Reaching out, I slowly turned her around, her eyes trying to escape mine. Gently, I washed her arms, and then dipped the cloth in the warm water.
“You will always be beautiful to me, my love. Even weak and underfed, you still take my breath away,” I replied softly.
“How can you say that? Look at me!” She was angry, and I could understand why.
“I am, my love, and I always will. I understand your anger and why you believe you don’t look pretty. But I didn’t marry you because of your looks. I married you because you were the bravest girl I have ever met.” I leaned in and kissed her stomach. “I married you because of those beautiful blue eyes filled with mischief.” I kissed her hip, and smiled as goose bumps broke out under my kiss. “I married you because of your stubborn nature, knowing that you would give me a good fight one day.” She laughed a little, and I kissed her other hip. Slowly, pulling her down on to my lap, I reached for her face and made her look at me. “I married you because you stole my heart the moment you looked at me. Yes, I see your body now as it is, but I also know that with my love and attention, you will be healthy again.” I kissed her on her mouth softly.
 
From Dinner Break - A More than Magic Series short story
I sighed and opened my eyes.
“I can’t,” I admitted. “I can’t think about anything other than that stupid rec center.” I tried, and failed again, to dislodge him and get up.
“Mm. Not good enough. You know, you’ve been here since eight, right? It’s almost eleven. You’ve been working on that crap for fifteen hours.”
“Jesus,” I groaned. “Has it really been that long?”
“See why I’m forcing you to relax?”
I sighed and leaned forward, until my forehead was resting against his. His skin was almost too cold, but I welcomed the discomfort. It gave me something else to think about. He draped his arms over my shoulders in a loose hug. His fingers ran down my back, rubbing in small circles, until they stopped on a painful knot. I closed my eyes, while he worked at it, and we just sat like that for a few minutes. By the time his skin had warmed up to my temperature, he had worked the knot out and found another. I leaned into his hand, feeling more comfortable and relaxed than I had in days.
“You were right. I needed a break,” I whispered.
Danio chuckled. “I know.”
He moved his hand up my back and pressed his fingers against the taut muscles in my neck. A headache I’d had for hours started to mercifully recede. I opened my eyes and found his dark blue ones looking back at me. They were swirling with a mesmerizing blend of blues; a water elemental trait that I had never expected to be able to decode. But now, every shade and ripple was as clear to me as the flaring reds and flickering orange eyes of a fire elemental. His eyes were splashing with merry, relaxed shades of blue. Yet, I could see a telltale trickle of gray, just ebbing and flowing on the edges of his irises. He was still worried about me.
I tilted my head, just a little, leaned forward, and kissed him.
 
 
review
 
 
5kiss
 
 
Afternoon DelightsAfternoon Delights by Melissa Ringsted
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Review by Susan
I will be honest, I don’t really read anthologies because basically there would be one or two good reads and then the rest would be uninteresting for me. However this would not be the case in this anthology. Each story is unique and exciting in its own way. Not once did I find myself bored. If a few cases I had to stop reading because the authors had reminded me of some very important things I should be doing in my own life. And in one story I cried my eyes out.

Special Delivery was one of the wake up reads, I found myself wondering when was the last time I made my love life interesting or even fun. I was guilty as charged and felt absolutely dreadful. We get so used to our life’s that we don’t stop and revise it often enough. Thanks for the author for giving me a wakeup call.
Dinner Break was intriguing. I haven’t read this series yet but I will be changing that soon. The characters sounds very delightful and the world amazing. I have never read about a creature that had to eat the remains of fire, very intriguing.
My Beloved Marie - Well this would be the one where I cried my eyes out. Karen Swart have taken something very dreadful and close to South Africans and changed it into a beautiful story. There is not many authors that would venture into something so tragic and change it into something so amazing.

Our Little Secret reminded me so much of my college years and all the stupid stuff we did. But it also reminded me how we found love in the places we never thought we would. It was such a nice trip back into memory lane.

The CEO’s wife was another one of that wake up call. Phew and it was a huge one. Don’t just think your love one will stick around if you give him or her no attention, I made sure that night to tell my husband how much he means to me. Great and amazing story!
Sabella was another great Historical read in this one. I loved the instant fall in love situation and dreaded the outcome for this girl.
What happens in vegas - well now this was a amazing read. I was laughing so much I had to stop reading. I love the humor in this one and just adored the story.

The Blind Date was so romantic and gave hope that there is another love out there. We think that we only get one shot in life but are reminded that sometimes out true love is just late.
Abalze was hot hot and hot. Stuck in a storm with a guy you have been itching over, yeah you know something is going to happen.

This anthology had it all from soft historical romance to right out rough erotica. If you like romance then this would need to be in your purse on lunch times. A great quick read that will keep you intrigued and busy.


View all my reviews
 
 
 
 
 
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1 x $25 Amazon Gift Card
3 x $10 Amazon Gift Card
E-book Of A Magic Semester Aboard by Elizabeth Kirke
E-book of Unhappily Ever After by Anchor Group
E-Book of Fairy Tales with a Twist by Anchor Group
E-book of Dragon Wars by Emily Fogle
E-Book of Chasing Flames by Emily Fogle
E-book of The Groom by Elise Marion
E-book set of Kasadya Hellhound Series by Karen Swart
E-book of Hidden Demons by Dawn Gray
E-book of A Garden of Eden by Katie Cowan
 
 
topten
 
 

My top ten paranormal creatures – Author Karen Swart

Wow, this was a tricky list to combine. I love so many, that to place them in a top ten post was hectic. Well, here we go…

  1. Berserkers – I really love berserkers, especially the novels I have read about them. They are the ultimate warrior that you don’t want to meet in a fight. And yes, the blue eyes make me swoonJ I also love the fact that they are Odin’s warrior, love Norse mythology.
  2. Werewolf – Protective, territorial and oh my, to die for. Novels with werewolves in them always have me turning the pages faster just to get a glimpse of the werewolf. Jacob totally did it for me J Yeah! Team Jacob!
  3. Dragons – If you have read Katie Macalister Dragon Series, you will know why I love them. Baltic was my favorite, freaking hilarious guy.
  4. Vampires - Of course this one will be on my list! I mean come on, Demitri from Archangel’s blade, Lothaire, Gabriel from The Dark Series and the list continues. Nope, sorry ladies but Edward didn’t do it for me.
  5. Fae – This would be the Fever Series from Karen Marie Moning’s fault. Yeah, I know Christian is a dark prince, but still oh my.
  6. Angels – Oh wow, there is also a few guys like Nalini Singh’s Guilt hunter Series and Gena Showalters Angels of The Dark Series, which will leave you drooling. Packed with beautiful wings, we also have the super angel’s laced with phenomenal bodies and to die for love.
  7. Demons – I think this would explain it all. The Lords of the Underworld and Demonica. Swooning again. I loved that for once, it’s not all evil in these series and we can see another side to demons.
  8. Dhampir- Just one word would do it – Demitri.
  9. Gods –We have the ever famous Acheron from The dark Hunter Series, his book was the first to make me cry, it took me a week to read it. Freaking sad oneL.
  10. Witches – never ever mess with a witch. I love the magic part, but also the “I get totally pissed off and curse you for eternity” part. A lot of novels have started to give witches a huge face lift, and they really needed it. They go from evil witch, to totally ass kicking witches.

And that’s my top ten paranormal creatures and the reasons why I love them.

 
 
 
 
 
 
abouttheauthor
   
clip_image010Emily Fogle was born and raised in Southern California. Her dream and ultimate goal was to get her Masters degree in English and become a teacher with enough time to write, as well. However, she soon found out that the best dreams often come true when they aren’t planned. Instead of fulfilling her teaching goal, real life took over and she married the man of her dreams. She now has an amazing 7 year old son and a beautiful baby boy.
She dedicates the majority of her time taking care of her family, volunteering at her son’s school, and being a Cub Scout Den leader. And though she loves every minute of it, the thought of being a writer still tugs at her heart. So, after the busy days are done and everyone is finally sleeping quietly, she squeezes in time for all the other loves in her life: the characters running wild inside her head.
Now, incredibly, her writing dream is also coming true. Her first novel, Dragon Wars, is being published by Anchor Group. Emily feels sincerely blessed to have been given so much in life and can’t wait to start the next chapter.
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Elise Marion is a lover books and has a special place in her heart for sweet and sensual romance. Writing about love across all walks of life is her passion, as is reaching people through the written word. The Army wife and stay-at-home mother of three spends most of her time taking care of her children. Her second job includes writing stories about characters that people can fall in love with. When the Texas native isn’t caring for her family or writing, you can usually find her with her nose in a book, singing loudly, or cooking up something new in the kitchen.
Contact Elise via email: elisemarionwrites@yahoo.com
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Karen Swart lives in a small town in the Northern Cape Province, South Africa. She shares her live with her husband, two sons and daughter. If she isn't reading she is writing.
Her preferred genres are Paranormal and Urban fantasy. Karen specializes in payroll and HRIS systems analysis and development. At the age of 21 Karen's professional success reached its highest platform, an outstanding achievement at such a young age.
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clip_image016Elizabeth Kirke wanted to be an author before she even knew what an author was. She used to say that she wanted to be an artist, but that was only because she was too young to write and had to tell stories with pictures instead. She hasn't stopped writing since she learned how. It wasn't long before she dreamed of becoming an author and couldn't be happier now that that dream is a reality.
If she isn't writing...well, let's be honest; if she isn't writing she's probably on Facebook thinking that she should start writing. But, if she isn't writing or on Facebook, she's probably doing something involving books, baking, gardening, or yarn.
Like most slightly-nosy, avid readers, Elizabeth can't resist trying to catch a peek at books she sees people reading when out in public to see if she can figure out what it is. While doing just that one day, she realized that it would probably be the coolest-thing-ever if she caught a complete stranger reading one of her books. That's her new dream.
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USA TODAY Bestselling author, L.P. Dover, is the author of the Forever Fae series, as well as the Second Chances standalone series, and her NA romantic suspense standalone called Love, Lies, and Deception. She lives in the beautiful state of North Carolina with her husband, her two wild girls, and her rambunctious kitten Katrina.
Before she began her career in the literary world, L.P. Dover spent her years going to college and then graduated to cleaning teeth, which she loved doing. At least until the characters in her head called her away. She has never been the same since.
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clip_image020Windy City writer Elizabeth Marx brings cosmopolitan flair to her fiction, which is a blend of romance and fast-paced Chicago living with a sprinkle of magical realism. In her past incarnation she was an interior designer—not a decorator—which basically means she has a piece of paper to prove that she knows how to match and measure things and can miraculously make mundane pieces of furniture appear to be masterpieces. Elizabeth says being an interior designer is one part shrink, one part marriage counselor and one part artist, skills eerily similar to those employed in writing.
Elizabeth grew up in Illinois and has also lived in Texas and Florida. If she's not pounding her head against the wall trying to get the words just right, you can find her at a softball field out in the boonies or sitting in the bleachers by a basketball court. Elizabeth resides with her husband, girls, and two cats who've spelled everyone into believing they're really dogs.
Elizabeth has traveled extensively, but still says there's no town like Chi-Town.
Jenna Pizzi is the bestselling author of the NA Destined series, as well as her romantic standalones Sweet Serendipity and Chance Encounters, and her romantic suspense The Long Road Home. She lives in Massachusetts with her children, her lazy old dog, and three cats that adopted her as their pet. When she is not writing, she loves spending time walking the beach, collecting rocks with her children, or exploring the deep dark woods of New England. When the muse calls and there is a heartstring to pull, you’ll find Jenna creating a world that will touch many lives.
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Morgan Black is a hair stylist by day and hottie writer by night. She walks her dogs in high heels and never leaves the house without red lipstick. She firmly believes in the power of Zen, and does Yoga freely in her backyard, in her favorite set of pumps.
You can find her steamy writing at authormorganblack.wordpress.com
She also designs eBook covers at Cover Up Designs.
 
 
 


 
 
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Jenna Pizzi is the bestselling author of the NA Destined series, as well as her romantic standalones Sweet Serendipity and Chance Encounters, and her romantic suspense The Long Road Home. She lives in Massachusetts with her children, her lazy old dog, and three cats that adopted her as their pet. When she is not writing, she loves spending time walking the beach, collecting rocks with her children, or exploring the deep dark woods of New England. When the muse calls and there is a heartstring to pull, you’ll find Jenna creating a world that will touch many lives.
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clip_image026Kimberly Larson, author of the Contemporary Romance novel,"If I Didn't Have You," lives in Southeast, Michigan, with her two gorgeous children who are four and six. She loves to read, especially Romance and Young Adult novels that have that one encounter or connection between two people that is so strong. It keeps you wanting to read about them so much more and you just can’t help but feel it through the reading
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Tour Schedule - Two Week Blog Tour for Afternoon Delights, an Anchor Group Anthology - Feb 24 to March 9
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