ARC Review: Her Perfect Mate

Her Perfect Mate (X-Ops #1)

by Paige Tyler 

Blurb:

Their attraction is more dangerous than any weapon of mass destruction

When Special Forces Captain Landon Donovan is chosen for an assignment with the Department of Covert Operations, he's stunned to find his new partner is a beautiful woman who looks like she couldn't hurt a fly, much less take down a terrorist.

Ivy Halliwell isn't your average covert op. Her feline DNA means she can literally bring out the claws when things get dicey. She isn't thrilled to be paired with yet another military grunt, but Landon is different. He doesn't think she's a freak-and he's smokin' hot. Soon they're facing a threat even greater than anyone imagines... and an animal magnetism impossible to ignore.

Themes: shifters, covert ops

Rating: 3.25 stars

Heat Rating: 

Review:

As a frequent reader, I love trying new authors and new series, and getting to share my feelings and thoughts about these books is one of my biggest joys when it comes to reading. I have read just about every permutation out there of shifters, mercenaries, covert ops and any combination thereof, but this was an interesting take on all of the above. I have no experience with this author’s writing, but I enjoyed this story well enough to give a second book a try and see if she might be worth adding to my favorite authors list.  This story has quite a few twists and turns in the plot, lots of heat, and just enough sweetness to keep the story from being too intense or becoming dry. If you are a fan of Cherry Adair, Lora Leigh, and Katie Reus will find yourself enjoying this new series very much.

Landon Donovan is a man determined to do right by his Special Forces team, after a mission cost one of his good friends his career and almost his life. When he is pulled from the field and given new orders he never imagined just how much his reality was about to change. His new partner is a sexy and irresistible woman that has more than a few secrets and is one of the few who could match him in the field—or the bedroom. Ivy is a shifter, with feline grace and abilities that make her the ultimate predator in their world. When she is forced to take Landon as a partner, she never imagined just how well matched they would be, in all portions of their lives they just seem to fit. Soon they are find themselves caught up in a dangerous plot, hatched by a madman, and with the goal of starting the next world war.  Only by trusting each other completely will they stand a chance of stopping the plot and staying alive, but will the feelings they bring out in each other make them stronger as a team or prove their ultimate weakness.

I love Ivy; she is a sexy badass with trust issues, but under it all just a woman looking for a man to love her for her and be someone she can lean and count on through the good and the bad. Seeing her kick butt and take names was fun, but I loved even more when she jumped in to save Landon from his own arrogance even more.  She is obviously the type of woman that protects those she loves with everything in her, and there is just enough extra in her to do it well.  So let’s discuss now the special feline portion of Ivy and how much I didn’t think that was written to its full potential. In the story there is a brief, almost vague, explanation of what makes her a shifter and what it means.  Can I just say this is the first “shifter” story I’ve ever read where the “shifter” doesn’t “shift” into anything. While her feline DNA (and other shifters personal DNA type) allows her to tap into the special abilities inherent in her shifter species, the only part of her that actually shifts is her eyes, fangs and claws.  I think it would have been even better had she and her counterpoints actually fully shifted into their animals, but maybe that’s just me. But overlooking that little pet-peeve, Ivy is still a great character and a woman I would love to have on my side in any fight.

Landon is one sexy beast, even if he’s completely human. While he is willing to do his job to the best of his ability, only when he begins to connect with Ivy do his real abilities come out.  His protective instincts, linked to his passion for her, come to the fore even more prominently once he gives into the desire for her as a woman. He is obviously the type of man that gives his all in his work and also in his relationships, whether with his woman or his friends.  He’s sweet but intense, strong but vulnerable, and willing and able to do whatever it takes to keep Ivy safe and make her his. His past was brushed on briefly and was more than a little sad, but instead of it making him into a bitter bastard, it instead makes him more determined to make something of himself and find his place in the world. Overall I would say that Landon is just the type of man I look forward to finding to settle down with, which is the highest praise I can think of.

While I enjoyed Her Perfect Mate, I will say that I can’t imagine myself coming back and rereading it again and again like some similar books I have read.  There were just moments I found my attention wavering and while I can say I liked both characters a lot and the overall plot was good, there were a few parts that just bugged me.  There were some serious issues with the organization that employed Ivy and Landon, the issues with Shifters than can’t shift, and the lack of depth for strong supporting characters was just enough to keep me from hedging into love with this story.   Ivy is a wonderful character, a strong, no-nonsense warrior, who maintains her femininity and desire for love, while still using her unique feline abilities to keep her and her friends and loved-ones safe.   Landon is a man after my own heart; sexy, alpha without being obnoxious about it, strong, deadly and unwilling to let any danger go unanswered.  But at the same time he’s sweet, compassionate, caring, and gentle when it comes to Ivy and that balance and depth is what makes him the perfect guy.  The passion that Ivy and Landon both feel, and both try to deny, is so strong I could feel myself heating up right alongside them. The villains’ evil plot was well thought out and developed, even if I figured it out long before Landon and Ivy did.  In the end I will say that I liked this book well enough to keep it on my shelf and give the second book in the series the chance to make me a believer, so I’m looking forward to seeing what’s next for these teams.

*eARC provided by publisher (via netgalley) for the purpose of an honest and unbiased review.  No compensation was provided. 

ARC Review: Hell for Leather

Hell for Leather (Black Knights Inc. #6)

by Julie Ann Walker 

Blurb:

Only the most urgent crisis could force Delilah Fairchild to abandon her beloved biker bar and ask the surly Bryan "Mac" McMillan for help. Her uncle—the man who raised her—has vanished into thin air, and Mac is the only person with the right connections to help her find him. What the ex-FBI agent has against her is a mystery...but when the bullets start to fly, Mac is her only chance of finding her uncle alive.

Mac knows that beautiful women can't be trusted, but he has to put his natural wariness of Delilah aside in order to help her. With the clock ticking, Mac and Delilah find themselves holding on to each other in the wildest adventure of their lives.

Themes: bikers, mercenaries  

Rating: 3.5 stars

Heat Rating:

Review:

 The mysterious men of Black Knights Inc (BKI) are back in the story of Mac and sexy bar owner, Delilah, who has been a part of the BKI world for a few books now, though she only recently learned the truth of the sexy bikers that frequented her bar. This series is full of sexy, alpha, and dangerous men and the women that bring them to their knees with sass, strength and sweetness.  I’ve followed this series since the very beginning and am thrilled with each new addition to the series, but I of course have my favorite knights.  I enjoyed reading Mac and Delilah’s story, though I didn’t love it as much as some others in the series.  There were beautiful twists and turns, dangerous situations, and the ultimate love that develops between two people that seem so different but are ultimately more alike than either ever would have believed. If you haven’t read previous novels in the series you won’t be too lost with the plot and relationships in this story, but you won’t be able to appreciate the subtle references to previous stories or the intensity of the BKI men and their missions.  

This mission begins with Delilah enlisting the help of BKI to find her missing uncle, Theo.  Though he’s only been gone for a while, Delilah’s gut won’t allow her to let his disappearance be pushed to the side and her heart won’t allow her to lose another person she loves.  When she arrives at her bar to find Mac and his friends there she knows that fate is telling her to trust them and work with them to find him, but she has no idea just how deep his secrets go or how dangerous a situation she is going to find herself in. After a bit of research, the BKI team discovers that the truth of Theo’s disappearance is a deadly game that could cost him his life, as well as Delilah’s and perhaps even the lives of the knights if they’re not careful. As the danger surrounding them intensifies, so does the passion that Mac has been denying from the very beginning, but Delilah is determined not to let this sexy man slip through her fingers.  When Mac’s past threatens to keep them from having a future, Delilah’s strength and stubbornness is the only thing that can keep them from sabotaging their chance at happiness.

Delilah is the type of woman I want to be when I grow up. :) She is sexy, passionate, determined, smart, and adventurous. When tragedy struck at her bar, costing her the life of one of her oldest patrons and a good friend, she veered a bit off course, desiring more and more to get away from the bar. When she finds herself in need she turns to her friends at BKI to find her uncle and bring him back to her safely. She has desired Mac for a while now, but his repeated rejections make it harder and harder for her to keep putting herself in his path.  When the danger around her leaves her floundering, she naturally turns to Mac for comfort and to keep her mind off her troubles.  Giving in to that passion though is more dangerous than the killers after them, dangerous to both her heart and her mind. I loved seeing her corner Mac again and again and force him to deal with the attraction between them and when that attraction and heat ultimately turns to love there is no denying they are perfect together, even if Mac fights it 'til the very end.

Mac is a bit of an ass for the majority of this book and I wanted so many times to kick his ass and make him see the beauty of the woman right in front of him. Though the women in his past have made him wary, they have made him terrified of having a true meaningful relationship; I think he could have easily overcome those issues if he’d just used some of his inherent determination to get over it already.  Those hang-ups keep him from looking deeper into the true woman that Delilah is and seeing that she is not the same as the woman that hurt him in the past.  While he is definitely a great operator, as a man he is a jerk and one that is closed-minded and unwilling to embrace the life he could have.  I loved seeing him working and the times when he does open up and embrace the heat generated by their attraction, there is a sexy man underneath all that fear and arrogance that is obviously hurting and terrified of living happily ever after.  When Delilah confronts him and forces him to get over it already, he pulls her into his heart and you can tell that they will have a bright and loving future.

Hell for Leather is a great story of a woman’s determination to get her man and a man’s hurt preventing him from seeing the greatness right in front of him. Delilah is a sexy, sassy, smart and interesting character, a motorcycle riding, drink-slinging, and trouble-starting woman, but with a depth and sweetness that keeps her from crossing into bitch territory.  Mac is an alpha man, sexy as hell, and badass to the bone, but his determination to keep himself from repeating past mistakes keeps him from seeing the greatness that will be found in a relationship with a good and trustworthy woman. The passion between these two slightly broken characters is palpable and undeniable even when they are fighting it and each other.  While there is certainly danger all around them, the feelings they stir in one another are deep and the kind of love that develops between them is what all women are looking for in their lives, the kind of love that last lifetimes.  The only real issue I had with this story was Mac’s repeated denials of their mutual attraction and his continued rejections of Delilah’s love. I have a feeling I know whose book will be next and I am very much looking forward to reading it.  This is a sexy series, but only if you like bikers, sexy men, and dangerous operators—and really what woman would deny that!

*eARC provided by publisher (via netgalley) for the purpose of an honest and unbiased review.  No compensation was provided. 

ARC Mini-Review: Copper King

Copper King (Takhini Shifters #1)

by Vivian Arend 

Blurb:

Three things make billionaire Jim Halcyon’s to-do list: women, work…and more women. It’s a perfect agenda for a rich shifter who has no problem letting his inner grizzly out to play. From the bright lights of Vegas, to the sophisticated action of New York—he’s got the money and the power to do anything he wants.

Anything, except resist the lure of Lady Luck, an ancient copper coin he gambles yearly to possess. Jim is determined to regain control of the pretty penny, and damn if he’ll let any bit of eye candy distract him from his goal. Not even the mesmerizing woman in the middle of the casino floor with the shimmering hair and enormous green eyes.

With a life-changing move ahead of her, Lillie’s finagled a temporary layover en route to her future. She’s got five days to soak in new experiences, and while Vegas is too big and shiny and loud for her shy bear self, she’s eager to do this up right. It’s the last chance she’s got to let her hair down.

Until his challenge begins, Jim is more than willing to oblige Lillie’s wish for a final fling. Only Lady Luck has some twists of fate planned for them both…

Themes: shifters

Rating: 3.75 stars

Heat Rating: 

Review:

Well-written, sweet and sexy, Copper King is another great story by one of my favorite authors. Though I wasn’t sure what to expect with this spin off that seems to be interwoven with the other series in this world, I enjoyed every second and am looking forward to where this series goes.  The story takes place in sexy fast-paced Las Vegas and involves two very sexy shifters that come across each other and change each other’s lives forever. I will say that usually I am easily able to figure out just where a story is going, but this time I had no idea what was going to happen until almost the same time the characters did.  I loved the connection between Lillie and Jim, the friendship between Jim and Damon, and the way the two relationships blend together to bring Lillie into their lifelong friendship and make them a family.  I have never read an Arend novel I didn’t enjoy and Copper King was no exception.

Lillie is on her last foray before she has to fulfill her duty to her family and settle down.  She decides to spend her last hurrah in Vegas, gambling, seeing a few shows, and just living life to the fullest.  But she never expected to come across someone like Jim, much less to have him rescue her just when she needs a knight in shining armor. The second Jim catches Lillie’s scent he is determined to make the sexy little bear into his lover, but just until it is time to get to work beating the pants off Damon in their yearly contest.  As they explore their attraction and the passion becomes all-encompassing, it becomes harder for them both to deny that their connection might be something more than a fling.  When it comes time for Lillie to fulfill her duty, she decides she’s not willing to give up Jim and leaves him behind just long enough to set things straight so she can be with him forever.  But a twist of fate will show Jim and Lillie that sometimes even a bear’s best laid plans can go awry.

This story of two people, fighting fate and trying to make their own choices is full of passion, laughs, and sweetness.  Jim is a tall drink of water to be sure, one with an intensity and sexiness that is undeniable, but he is so determined to keep himself separate form Lillie that when she sneaks in and steals his heart, I couldn't help but laugh.   His strength and character keep his arrogance from overwhelming the goodness of his nature, but seeing how he treats his friends and lovers show me that no matter how arrogant he is, he is a good man that will take good care of Lillie and make her an eternally happy woman. While Lillie is obviously a bit naive and mostly sheltered, when she comes out of her shell and embraces the relationship with Jim it is a wonder to see.  I loved watching Lillie experience Vegas with Jim and even Damon, and learn more about herself while falling in love with a man that could make her happier than anything or anyone else in the world.  I loved the twist in this story and never saw it coming, which is beyond rare.  Beautifully plotted, with passion, fun, laughter, and love, Jim and Lillie show us the lighter side of falling in love while reminding us that sometimes the hand of fate is not to be run from but instead to be embraced. I’m hoping that Damon gets his own story soon and cannot wait to read it.  Wolves, cougars, and bears oh my! The wilds of Canada will be undeniably hot with more of Vivian’s stories coming soon.

*eARC provided by publisher (via netgalley) for the purpose of an honest and unbiased review.  No compensation was provided. 

ARC Review: Forged

Forged (The World of Nightwalkers #4)

by Jacquelyn Frank 

Blurb:

When Katrina Haynes discovers a large man lying wounded in the snow, she fears he is at death’s door. But as Kat tends to his injuries, she quickly realizes that they’re the least of her worries. With an irresistible Scottish brogue and a strange ability to harden his chiseled body like a statue, the stranger awakens a desire she is unable to resist—and a fascination about the intriguing world he exists in.

As a proud Gargoyle, Ahnvil must safeguard the Nightwalker to whom he’s sworn fealty. But as this bewitching woman nurses him back to health, arousing an almost uncontrollable hunger within him, he is possessed with the fierce impulse to protect her as well. And he will have to shield her—for by coming to his rescue, Kat has placed herself in the middle of a supernatural war . . . and exposed herself to dark, powerful magic. As human and Gargoyle forge an unbreakable bond, Kat will discover that despite his intimidating strength and size, one thing Ahnvil does not possess is a heart of stone.

Themes: shifters, paranormal, magick

Rating: 4 stars

Heat Rating: 

Review:

Well now that was an unexpected turn of events, and one I did not see coming.  The series isn’t so much branching off from the expected H/h combos as it is including some new and interesting characters and bringing in fresh blood to keep the series original, while still being awesome in that it brought in favorite characters from the previous Nightwalkers series.  For some reason, even after the last book, it never occurred to me that future books in the series might have an H/H that weren’t Bodywalkers and I am somewhat glad of my shortsightedness because I was happily surprised to have a sexy Gargoyle and human (mostly) as the lusty leads in this new story. Frank takes us on a thrilling ride from the snowbound mountains of Washington to the sultry heat of New Mexico in a tale of a man whose heart has long been hidden behind a wall of stone and a woman who has never found a place in the world she can feel at ease being herself.  If there is one thing I’ve learned about Jackie, though, it’s to never go into anything she writes with expectations because things will never be as you thought and you will always been pleasantly surprised.

To start Ahnvil’s story we get an interesting bit of background about his life, quickly moving forward to present day where he finds himself at the mercy of his enemies after an ambush.  When he makes a dangerous escape attempt, injured and facing the ultimate death if he doesn’t get home soon, Ahnvil is forced to accept help from Kat, a sexy and naïve human female who pushes all of his buttons and brings to light feelings he thought long buried. When Kat stumbles upon a bleeding half dead…half stone?... man in the snow on her morning walk she never expected the changes and dangers he would bring to her life—much less the excitement and love. Giving in to her long neglected physician side, she immediately gets him back to her home and sets about restoring him to health, no matter how much he scares her or turns her on.  The more she learns about her mystery man, the more she wants to know, but knowing will put her into even more danger and when a stupid choice makes it impossible for her to escape him altogether, Kat finds herself traveling to New Mexico to meet a whole race of people she never thought existed.  And shall I mention there is a mysterious phantom along for the ride (I won’t spoil the surprise on this one but I gotta say I LOVED this part!). Falling for a gargoyle never even entered Kat’s mind, until she met the one sexy man who turns to stone but melts her heart like a lava flow. And when a powerful enemy captures Kat, only by embracing her newly discovered strength and trusting in herself and her man can she find her way back to safety and her new friends and family.

I would normally spend a bit of time talking about the Hero and Heroine at this point, but I find myself unable to touch on them too much without spoiling a lot of surprises in the story so I’ll keep things general as much as possible.  Kat is a strong woman, one who has some real hang-ups and has become something of a recluse, with only her dog for company.  She once thrived on the challenge of being an ER doc, but now she lives quietly on her mountain and is sure she will never find a man to have a future with.  I liked her personality a lot, though I felt she was entirely too conflicted with her desires when faced with a gorgeous naked and horny male. When she learns the truth about herself and finally finds her place in the world, I was so thrilled for her and am looking forward to seeing her in future stories after she has had even more time to develop and grow as a woman. Ahnvil is a bit harder to analyze as, like his name implies, he is hardheaded and too stubborn to open up to Kat very much.  His fears about being with Kat were sweet to see, but when he is at his most lusty I can honestly say I would have been a little scared of his intensity. Accepting help from anyone is tough for him, but as time moves closer and closer to his ultimate destruction, he lets himself come to count on and care for Kat.  When she is taken from him the true depth of his feelings is uncovered and he knows he can never let her go.  The intense heat between Kat and Ahnvil provides an immediate pull that is impossible to resist for too long, but the feelings that develop are delightfully subtle and realistic.  There is laughter, fear, indecision, and vulnerability from the beginning of their relationship, but once they make the conscious decision to be together there is no limit to the passion, love, or strength they can each gain individually and as a couple.

This story of two very different, but oddly perfectly matched individuals finding love with one another is one that I will remember for a while to come. Ahnvil is one of those guys that can just seriously get on your nerves if you let him; he’s brash, sometimes crude, and bossy as hell, but he’s always sweet, sexy, tender, thoughtful, affectionate and protective.  I loved Ahnvil from the minute he walked onto the pages and I am glad I didn’t write him off as a jackass just because he tried mauling the woman rescuing him.  Kat was a different kettle of fish—her I liked from the very beginning.   Firstly I have to point out that she owns my FAVORITE breed of dog and I hate her so much for taking my dog, but moving on. How can you not love the type of woman that will go above and beyond just to rescue a total stranger from harm?  As she learns more and more about the world that she really lives in, she handles the danger and strangeness with great aplomb and dignity, when many others would have passed out from the sudden and continued hits that come her way.  The heat that these two stir in the air as they get closer and closer to each other is so intense it surprises me they weren’t able to just melt the feet of snow around them after the huge blizzard. I loved the overall plot line, the intriguing plot twists and the startling truths that come to light several times in this story.  I liked this spin-off series before, but now I can officially say I’m in love and will be longing for the next books and the future story arcs that will come from the changes to the World of the Nightwalkers. Keep the hits coming Jackie.

*eARC provided by publisher (via netgalley) for the purpose of an honest and unbiased review.  No compensation was provided. 

Review: A Demon in Dallas

A Demon in Dallas (Huntress Chronicles #1)

by Amy Armstrong 

Blurb:

Two years ago, vampire hunter Raven walked out on the love of her life in order to save his, but now that she needs Connor’s help to locate a demon in Dallas, can she keep their encounter to business only, or is she about to fall for the sexy were-shifter all over again?

When her partner Matt is kidnapped by vampires, it’s down to vampire huntress Raven to locate him. But during her rescue mission, she nearly succumbs to the wicked charms of an evil fairy and is blackmailed by a devious angel who wants her to locate a demon in Dallas. Raven’s superior in the hunters' council gives her just seventy two hours to find Matt before a team of hunters are sent in whose mission statement is kill first, ask questions later. Raven’s going to need help, but the only person she can turn to is her ex-boyfriend Connor, a werewolf who Raven hasn’t been able to get out of her heart or head.

Unwittingly thrown into a battle between good and evil and with danger lurking around every corner, Raven must race against the clock to locate the demon and rescue Matt while dealing with her feelings of guilt for walking out on Connor two years ago - even though she did so to save his life.

Themes: witches, shifters, vampires, paranormal

Rating: 3 stars

Heat Rating: 

Review:

Well this was certainly a different take on the world on magicks and myths, set in modern America with mostly modern individuals and a split between paranormal beings that puts them at odds with each other and puts them in more danger from those that hunt them all.  This was my first experience reading anything by this author and it was interesting and a good read all in all.  The plot was a little choppy with so many things happening in so short a time and not necessarily blending as seamlessly as I’d like, but it was well written and thought through, keeping things from being completely disjointed. I liked the heroine of the story and the hero was sexy and strong.  I don’t usually like stories that come in during the middle of a couple’s time together, always feeling a bit like I’m playing catch-up in their relationship, but this one gave enough back story and detail that I was happily able to connect.  I am looking forward to reading more in this series, and by this author in general.

The story follows hunter, Raven, as she embarks on a mission to save her recently kidnapped partner and best friend.  The mission requires her to enlist the help of the one man she never imagined having to contact again, the man whose heart she broke in an attempt to keep him safe.  Needing Connor’s help puts her heart directly in the path of being ripped from her chest all over again, but when the danger surrounding them begins to mount and their lives become even more complicated, only together can they beat back their enemies.   Connor hoped to never come face-to-face with Raven again, even though she still fills his heart, he cannot trust her again and believes the love he thought they had was never reciprocated.  When the truth of her leaving comes to light, the fury he feels leads Connor to make dangerous decisions, ones that could leave them both broken and battered…or give them the chance to find their HEA once and for all.

Raven was a character I could definitely relate to, a woman that will give up everything to keep her man safe, even her happiness and the life they could have together. She definitely made the tough decision with all the right intentions, but now she has to deal with the fallout of those choices. Raven is a warrior at heart though and she is willing to fight for her chance to find understanding even knowing forgiveness will be impossible for a man like Connor.  But the passion that still flares between them offers a bridge that will give them a slim chance to reconcile.  Connor believes she left him because the love they shared was never real, completely one-sided, and finding out the truth hurts even more than that belief.  Giving in to their needs reminds them both of the connection they have always shared—physical, emotional, and mystical—one that is unbreakable and eternal.  Working together to survive their enemies allows them both to decide that the love they share is worth any fight as long as they are together, which really is the whole point of romance novels to me, so it was a big plus.

While all in all I found the story a bit erratic, there were several points I liked and I will say I enjoyed the book, though it being a bit longer might have given more time to eliminate the spastic feel. Raven and Connor were interesting characters and an entertaining couple.  There were lots of familiar themes in the story and some that were just a little bit strange to me and I haven’t fully grasped the continuing plot that will hold this series together. Raven, as a hunter was a bit of a letdown, with her often being in the position of being rescued, I’d have liked to see her kick ass a bit more often, but I liked her interactions with Connor and others in the story.  Connor was a sweet but heartbroken alpha male and when his fury hits the roof it was certainly a sight to behold, but in the end his loving nature is what made him a good character.  There was plenty of heart between Connor and Raven, though here again had the book been longer I think this could have been explored more as well.   I am looking forward to where this series is going and seeing what else the author has in store, but I hope the next stories are a least a bit longer.

*eBook provided by author for the purpose of an honest and unbiased review.  No compensation was provided. 

Mini-Review: Sinful Seduction

Sinful Seduction (Red Stone Security #8)

by Katie Reus

Blurb:

He'll do anything to protect her....

Former Marine and newest Red Stone Security employee Alexander Blue is still adjusting to the civilian world after a decade spent at war, but when he sees someone in danger, nothing can take away that intrinsic need to protect. After stopping a would-be mugger, Blue finds himself being bandaged up by a sensual local artist in her Key West condo. He never expected to stay the night, even if it is on her couch. The mysterious Mina gets under his skin in a way he never thought possible. When it becomes clear that her mugging wasn’t random and she’s being targeted by deadly men, Blue has no problem stepping into the role of protector.

But she doesn't want to be saved

Tired of being coddled and treated like a child, Mina has tried to distance herself from her family. When danger finds her, she’s forced to turn to the sexy stranger who she feels a strong, unexpected connection with. In him she sees glimmers of herself; a little broken, withdrawn and wary of the world. Soon she learns that the biggest threat might not be from the men trying to kidnap her, but from the quiet warrior who poses an immediate risk to her heart.

Themes: contemporary, mercenary 

Rating: 3.75 stars

Heat Rating: 

Review:

 The hot steamy fun continues in this newest edition to the Red Stone Security series.  I love this series and have for a while and am thrilled it didn’t end when the spin-off Seraphina series began. The characters in this series are always interesting, sexy, smart and full of heart. Though we haven’t known Alexander Blue for very long, his personality pulls you in from the beginning and you immediately know you want to learn so much more about him.  Being a follower of the series I can say that you will enjoy this book whether or not you’ve read others in the series, but you are missing out on greatness if you don’t go back to number one and try them all.

When Alexander Blue finds himself at loose ends between missions, he never imagined he’d run into a dangerous conspiracy that would require all his exceptional skill to keep himself and the sexy Mina safe. Rescuing her from muggers, there is an immediate connection and he finds himself reluctant to leave her once he gets her safely home, and surprisingly she is just as reluctant to let him go.  Deciding that their attraction is worth investigating, they soon find themselves irresistibly drawn together and when it becomes apparent that she is in continued danger, Blue will do everything in his power to keep her safe, while keeping her with him.  Mina likewise is willing to give up some of her hard won independence to keep them both safe, but will she give up more to have a future with Blue?

Overall the story was intriguing, the romance was quick but well written, the love that develops was believable and I can honestly say this is one I will be reading again.  Mina is the type of woman I could see being my friend, even though she’s disgustingly beautiful.  She’s sweet, down to earth, uncompromising, and passionate about what she wants outs of life.  She uses her head as well as her heart to lead her life and help her make the best decisions for her life.  Blue is an obviously wounded warrior, one that has lost a lot of his faith in men, but refuses to give up on keeping the darkness from overtaking his life and putting those he cares about in danger.  I loved watching him in action when he protected them from or attacked the bad guys.  I even liked seeing him a bit uncertain in the beginning of his relationship with Mina, making him seem more human and less superhero.  The danger they had to deal with was not as intriguing as some in previous stories, and was sad to say a bit forgettable, but I felt the attacks and battles were there to bring them together more than anything, so they did their job. I was thrilled with this novella and I am looking forward to even more in this series, though the length continues to frustrate me because I just want so much more at a time.  A great series that continues to keep my interest and bring me back again and again.  Great work Katie.

*eARC provided by publisher (via netgalley) for the purpose of an honest and unbiased review.  No compensation was provided. 

Review: Dark Heat

Dark Heat (Dark Kings 0.1-0.3)

by Donna Grant 

Blurb:

The Dark Kings are sworn to defend an ancient legacy of dragon magic. But their fiercest challenge lies in the modern world, where a woman’s love conquers all. These are their stories.

Dark Craving

Fueled by ancient magic—and enflamed by human desire—the Dragon King known as Hal can transform himself at will into one of the legendary winged creatures he is sworn to protect. But one thing he can never do is fall in love...with a mortal woman.

Night’s Awakening

The dark immortal warriors were never meant to experience human desire. But when Guy, a member of an ancient order of shape-shifting warriors, meets Elena—a mere mortal whose beauty and blind ambition shakes him to his core—all bets are off...

Dawn’s Desire

For centuries, the Dragon Kings have hidden their shapeshifting powers from the world. But when a mortal enemy threatens to expose them, the warrior Banan must leave his secret lair in the Highlands to risk his life for the dragons within—and resist the temptations of human love.

Passion’s Claim

Banan has been waiting for centuries for someone like Jane. Guy knew it was love at first sight with Elena. Can two Dragon Kings commit to two immortal women for eternity? Or does fate have something else in store?

Themes: shifters, dragons, magick, paranormal

Rating: 4.25 stars

Heat Rating:

      

Review:

 Dark Craving

Hal and Cassie’s story is one that happened REALLY fast, but I could see the instant connection between them and had no problem believing the love that developed between them, even at so fast a speed.  Cassie stumbles into Hal’s life, moving into the cottage down the road from the Dragon Kings’ home and finding that Murphy’s Law is in all its glory when it comes to her life.  Hal stumbles on her in need of rescuing and before he even learns who she is, he is pulled to her and the desire that flares through him is unexpectedly strong.  Never imagining that she could accept him, Hal is still determined be her hero, but she discovers his secret and loves him anyway there’s no turning back for them.

Hal is a sexy beast (pun intended) and sweet to the core, a true gentleman and one that maintains his spirit and sweetness despite the length of his life and the loneliness that is beginning to flow into him.  Jane is just the woman to pull him back from the edge and the two of them make a perfect match.  The passion between them is hot as dragon-fire and there is no denying that their HEA is destined and at no time will they ever separate.  This story was a great beginning to the series and introduction to the real lives of the Dragon Kings.  If you have read the Warriors series most of these characters will be familiar to you, but getting to learn more about the Dragon Kings was a serious thrill. I can say for sure though that when Con finally falls in love with a woman the world will change forever.

Night’s Awakening

Elena and Guy on the other hand have quite a bit of angst and danger in their story.  Elena has come to the highlands with her boss on a caving adventure, never imagining her life will soon be in the hands of a very sexy, alpha, but deadly male and his distrustful friends. When she is rescued from the dark cave by Guy she feels a connection to him, but her fears of the men keep her pushing him away, but when they give her their trust and ask for her help with uncovering a new enemy she can’t say no to them and especially not to the undeniable desire she has for Guy. Thankfully they are able to overcome the dangers surrounding Elena and find their HEA… or are they?

Elena doesn’t start off as my favorite type of character.  She’s a bit meek, letting her boss lead her into dangerous situations and then when she is left to her own devices it takes her a little too long in my opinion to step up and defend herself.  When she finally finds her spine I found myself liking her much more.  And seeing her heal and love Guy, we see the sensual and sweet sides of her as well. Guy is the ultimate bad boy; a broody, sexy, and suspicious Dragon, Guy resists the pull to Elena because they cannot trust her motives for being in their mountain, there are just too many coincidences for her not to have been there to try to expose the Dragon Kings…right? But when she earns their trust and he is able to have his wicked way with her, his feeling are unquestionable and there is no chance he’ll ever let her leave him.  Seeing the Kings in action to keep Elena safe was fabulous and I cannot wait to get another chance to read more about Elena and Guy in their part of Passion’s Claim. Con is becoming a bit of a character that I love to hate, one that I cannot wait to see get his butt kicked by love, but I have a feeling we’ll be waiting a while to see this happen.

Dawn’s Desire

Jane just can’t seem to catch a break.  Just when she starts to find her niche at her job, she overhears her boss talking about something she just couldn’t have heard.  When she contacts Elena, attempting to spill the beans, Jane finds herself pulled into a world of danger, deceit and Dragons.  Never imagining that she can be of any help to them, Jane is surprised when she is recruited to help Elena and the Kings to find out more about their new enemy and his plans for them. But meeting Banan changes everything for her. Can she keep her new friends safe, guard their secret, and perhaps find love with one sexy, sweet Dragon shifter?

Jane is a woman I find myself relating to easily.  Though she stumbles into a conspiracy that she should never have encountered, she immediately takes steps to do the right thing, not giving too much thought to the consequences that might develop for her. When her passion for Banan begins to develop into something much deeper there is no way for her to escape Banan and certainly nowhere for her to run from him or her own feelings.  Banan is a sweet and considerate guy, one that puts his woman above any consequences, even the chance of exposing the Kings to the humans, if that’s what it takes to keep her safe.  When he decides she is his, there is no turning back, he commits wholeheartedly, no matter his fears, concerns, or worries about the future.  He trusts that their love will overcome anything… and he’s not wrong.  And all I can say about Con is: karma is a bitch and when he falls for a woman finally, like more and more of the kings have, there is no way in hell I’m gonna miss reading about it!.

Passion’s Claim

This story is more of a two-part epilogue to two of the previous stories than its own story, but it adds just that extra touch of greatness to the stories and the overall series.  Part one revolves around Jane and Banan and the changes coming to their relationship and their lives.  They have been together a little while now and have settled into their love, but neither of them have had the courage to broach the next big step—the binding ceremony that will mark her as his mate for life.  After a set of sweet circumstances, Banan and Jane finally take that step and their love is enriched and proven beyond any doubt.  Part two is about Guy and Elena and their story is a bit more complicated, heart-wrenching and sad, mostly because Guy is just too much the silent type to talk issues out and that leads to a huge misconception on bother their parts that stands the chance of tearing them apart and breaking their hearts for all time.

I loved both of these stories for different reasons.  Jane and Banan’s was sweet and loving, with only a bit of nerves and angst that quickly went out the door, reminding us how great a couple they are.  Jane and Banan are still both great characters and their love is obvious.  Elena and Guy’s story was more challenging to read with lots of tears and sadness before Elena finally turns everything around and gets her man.  I found myself liking Elena even more, knowing that she was able to get past her hang-ups to make sure that they don’t throw away their chance at true happiness.  When she finally came to her senses and started fighting for them, I knew there was no way she could fail and she would get her man and keep him forever.  Two great shorties that wrap up the Kings stories beautifully. 

I seriously CANNOT wait for the next full length novel in the series and any future stories.  I have loved all these stories and the Dragon Kings’ cameos in the Warriors books as well.  If you haven’t read that series you will maybe miss some of the subtle mentions of that series (and of course the greatness of that series cannot be forgotten), but you will still enjoy this series. I am looking forward to the future plotlines and finding out where the Dragon Kings are headed and what women will earn their hearts.

*ebook provided by publisher (via netgalley) for the purpose of an honest and unbiased review.  No compensation was provided.