Review: In the Company of Wolves (SWAT: Special Wolf Alpha Team #3)

In the Company of Wolves (SWAT: Special Wolf Alpha Team #3)

by Paige Tyler 

Blurb:

 He opened his mouth to order her to drop the MP5 she had aimed at him, but

nothing would come out. It was like she’d robbed him of the ability to speak. Shooting her wasn’t an option, though. And the idea of arresting her didn’t make him feel any better.

There's a new gang of criminals in town who are organized and ruthless in the extreme. When Eric Becker, along with the rest of the Dallas SWAT team, ends up in the middle of a shootout, he immediately senses werewolves-a lot of them. Turns out, the new bad guys are a pack of wolf shifters.

In a spray of gunfire, Becker comes face-to-face with the most gorgeous woman he's ever seen. Becker does the logical thing. He hides her and leaves the scene with the rest of his team.

Jayna Winston has no idea why that SWAT guy helped her, but she's glad he did. Ever since she and her pack mates got mixed up with those Eastern European mobsters, everything had pretty much fallen apart.

So what's a street-savvy thief like Jayna going to do with a hot alpha-male wolf who's a police officer?

Themes: wolves, shifters, paranormal

Rating: 3.75 stars

Heat Rating: 

Review:

The story of the sexy SWAT team of Dallas returns with an intriguing new glimpse of the way the men of this team find love in all the wrong places.  SWAT is a series that I was reluctant to start, mainly because it seemed way too out there, but as I read more I find that I like the characters and the series ARC more and more.  The first two stories were good and with each consecutive release they seem to be getting better, but Eric’s story is by far the best to date.  The action and drama that comes along with the nature of these characters lives and jobs can sometime overwhelm the romantic aspects of the stories, but all in all they balance out pretty well. Eric and Jayna have intense chemistry from the moment they meet, but it becomes obvious that Eric will have to risk his job as well as his life in order for him to have a chance with her.  Jayna has led an interesting life since the fateful night years ago when her true nature came to light after barely escaping a tragic end.  If you have missed the others in the series, you might just be a little lost as details on the underlying story are scarce in each story, but you can appreciate the story on its own pretty well.

Overall Eric and Jayna had a lot to work through personally and as a team in order for them to have a chance at love.  Being on opposite sides of the law being not the least of it.  Each of them learns more about their own natures as werewolves, most important being that together they make a killer alpha pair.  Eric is a sweet but strong guy that never believed in true love or mates until the intriguing she-wolf crosses his path during the course of a crime.  She is just too sexy to let her get caught, but tracking her down he knows that he will be risking his job and place in the pack, but he doesn’t seem to care.  Eric was the kind of sexy leader that would make a great pack alpha all on his own, which makes his determination to follow his pack leader—in most instances—all the more honorable.  Jayna has let herself and her friends be led down a deadly path, and the loyalty she feels to her alpha keeps her from running, but once he goes too far, it becomes up to her to keep herself and the lower level wolves safe.  She sees in Eric the determination and true alpha ways that once caused her to trust where she no longer does.  She begins to see that Eric is the perfect guy for her, even though he is stubborn and arrogant, because he again and again risks his personal safety and well-being for others weaker than him, just as an alpha should. I enjoyed seeing the sparking chemistry between these two and watching them circle each other until finally giving in to their desires.  The love that develops is one I can see being strong and true long into the future and the love for their new extended family is just as sweet and strong.  SWAT #3 was a welcome addition to the series and my bookshelves and I am looking forward to reading more about the team and seeing more and more of these sexy Alphas fall under the spell of The One.

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

Mini-Review: Dark Alpha's Claim (Reaper #1)

Dark Alpha's Claim (Reaper #1)

by Donna Grant

Blurb:

There is no escaping a Reaper. I am an elite assassin, part of a brotherhood that only

answers to Death. And when Death says your time is up, I am coming for you...

My whole existence is based on taking what Death wants. Born to eliminate Fae guilty of unforgivable crimes, my reckless, wild nature makes me the perfect assassin to carry out Death's bidding. I've seen more sinister and violent dealings than anyone could ever imagine. But it was the sight of her face that stopped me cold. I've never wanted a woman-never mind a human-so badly; never felt my heart, hardened by death, burn brighter and hotter until it burst into flames. She is everything I desire. The kind of woman that compels you to stake your claim on her, to let the world know that she's yours. A Reaper saving her life will only attract danger, but I vow to protect her at all costs from the Fae that hunt her, and keep safe the woman who has claimed me, body and soul.

Themes: Fae, Dragons, paranormal

Rating: 3.75 stars

Heat Rating: 

Review:

Another tale has spun from the imagination and world of Donna Grant and the greatness just keeps coming.  The new story about the long forgotten legendary Reapers, the boogey men of the Fae world come to life with a bang as the sweetest of the Reapers finds himself head over heels for a half-Fae woman.  The story of the reapers has been hinted at in the previous Dragon Kings story, but we never got all the information we wanted until Baylon and his team arrives.  The Reapers have been given an assignment that is impossible for them to follow and when the truth of their new enemy comes to light Baylon and his team find themselves fighting their most dangerous enemy--a former friend that knows their every move before they even make it.  Baylon is a sweet guy that is obviously in over his head with the emotions that Jordyn brings out and when she unleashes his passion there is no denying that he will give in to her, even at the risk of his own death.  Jordyn has always found the Fae fascinating, but recently the stories from her childhood have taken on a darker and deadlier existence as the Dark Fae have come out of the woodwork, killing hundreds of people in cities all over Scotland.  When Jordyn is saved from a Dark attack by a gorgeous sword-wielding Fae, she immediately feels a connection to him, one that she is unable to resist.  But the enemy after the Reapers sees Jordyn as the perfect revenge and quickly sets out to kill her, along with dozens of other half-Fae.  Though terrified and falling hard for Baylon, Jordyn is willing to risk her own life in order to help them defeat their enemies in hopes of keeping Baylon safe.  Her courage and willingness to defend her love makes her the perfect heroine and a match for Baylon's heroic nature in every way.  I enjoyed this story immensely even though it was much shorter than I would have liked.  I am looking forward to what happens next for the Reapers and of course seeing what role they will play in the war the Dragon Kings have undertaken.  Another interesting story Arc begins and I cannot wait to see where we are headed next.

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

Review: Too Hard to Handle (Black Knights Inc. #8)

Too Hard to Handle (Black Knights Inc. #8)

by Julie Ann Walker 

Blurb:

"The Man" is back

Dan "The Man" Currington is back in fighting form with a mission that takes him four thousand miles south of BKI headquarters, high in the Andes Mountains of Peru. He's hot on the trail of a rogue CIA agent selling classified government secrets to the highest bidder, when Penni DePaul arrives on the scene. Suddenly the stakes are higher, and keeping Penni safe becomes Dan's number one priority.

And this time she's ready

A lot has changed since former Secret Service Agent Penni DePaul last saw Dan. Now a civilian, she's excited about what the future might hold. But before she can grab onto that future with both hands, she has to tie up some loose ends-namely, Dan Currington, the man she just can't forget. And a secret that's going to change both their lives-if they can stay alive, that is.

Themes: contemporary

Rating: 4 stars

Heat Rating: 

Review:

Dan's story has come full circle bringing love back into his life and reminding us all that the heart has an infinite capacity for love and affection. Readers of this series have watched as Dan's life was almost lost when his beloved wife was killed pushing him into the darkness found at the bottom of a bottle, all the way through his battle to return to the light and find a way to continue to serve his country and live his life.  But when he met Penni in the previous novel we saw the spark in him come back for the first time in years.  Penni never knew just how important their time together in Malaysia was several months ago, but when she returns to Dan to have an important talk with him she never imagined she'd be pulled into his work as much as his arms.  Walker has an ability to tug on your heart just as much as your libido with characters that are as varied and intense as they are sweet and sassy. The story continues as the Black Knights find themselves facing new enemies and dealing with old threats.  I am really looking forward to the future stories in this series, but I can foresee an end in sight soon if we don’t bring in some fresh blood and new knights. *hint hint, nudge nudge*

Dan and Penni had their encounter a few months earlier when they were on assignment together in Malaysia, but Penni still desires and needs him in her life.  When she heads to BKI to find him, she instead learns he is on assignment in Peru and sets out to find him there.  Dan is beyond surprised, and slightly terrified, when Penni stumbles into the middle of his mission, placing herself in direct danger from a madman out to kill them all.  As they battle together and repeatedly succumb to the outrageously intense attraction between them, Dan and Penni both come to understand that their connection means more than anything either of them have felt in a while.  Unfortunately, when Penni learns of Dan's tragic past, she is unable to accept that she could ever fill the hole left behind by his beloved wife, even though she brings a little something extra to the table with her.  Now Dan really has his work cut out for him, proving to Penni that she owns him heart and soul, and finding a way for them to build a life together. 

Dan's tragedy and subsequent withdrawal from life scared both his friends and the readers that have followed his crisis of faith, but seeing him finally come to life as he comes to terms with his desire for Penni was beyond amazing.  Truly heartwarming, Dan's desire and affection for Penni ultimately brings him back to life.  Dan is a serious bad-ass in the field, but seeing Penni place herself in danger again and again brings up serious issues for him as he comes to terms with the fact that his love for Penni is just as or maybe even stronger than the love that he had for his beloved late wife.  Falling in love has never been so painful, but seeing her in danger reminds him that life is short and he needs to protect and claim his woman if he ever hopes to have a moments peace again.  The sweet and funny side of Dan is apparent in the banter between himself and Penni, as well as his interaction with his brothers and sisters in arms.  In the end Dan must dig deep to find every ounce of his strength and power to keep himself and Penni alive so they can have the future together they were destined for. 

Penni never knew that Dan was the one man that could dig deep into her heart and find a home that she could never eject him from.  She desired him from the first moment they met, but passion can be quenched without a woman falling in love...right?  Unable to deny her need to see him again, Penni throws herself into his path and unknowingly into the path of danger.  Determined to prove her worth to him, Penni works with him and his team to bring in a traitor while keeping everyone safe and sound.  But the best part is that the passion continues to burn hot and true between them, leading to some sexy and fun moments, even at the most inappropriate of times.  Penni has her own insecurities, sure, but her determination to have Dan and share a life with him leads to some interesting choices that force them both to face and deal with some very intense issues.  Her sassy mouth and sweet heart are a perfect foil for Dan's gruff sensuality and ability to sweep Penni up into the maelstrom of his passion and intensity. As the full truth of their future comes to light, Penni's stubbornness draws a line that I didn't agree with, but thankfully they are able to get past their fears to find their love and happiness.

Dan and Penni's story was one filled with anxiety, passion, regrets, and the beauty of love leading to rebirth. There are seldom stories that show the way a person can come back from rock bottom, where a man has truly lost all will to live, to find a way to love again and devote his life to his work and the woman that has captured his soul. Dan has found a way to do the almost impossible and giving his heart to Penni is the final step for him.  His connection to her has been obvious since their first meeting and while he never quit thinking of her, he never imagined she would slam back into his life like a chambered .45 and lead to so many changes in him.   Dan's sweetly silly moments have been few and far between, but Penni brings out the softer side of this hard-edged and deadly operator.  Penni, the kind of woman that never imagined she'd fall in love, has found herself softening as she falls in love with Dan deeper and deeper.  Her sassy mouth and deadly skill set are just what she needs to make her life with Dan and keep them both alive.  I cannot wait for the next story, which I assume with be Chelsea and Zoelner's story, one that has been hinted at for a little while now, and if so that one stands to be even hotter and more dangerous than Dan and Penni's story.  Walker strikes gold again with the operators and their allies as these men find their mates and give their hearts in the ultimate war, the battle of the heart.

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

Mini-Review: Dragos Goes to Washington (Elder Races #8.5)

Dragos Goes to Washington (Elder Races #8.5)

by Thea Harrison 

Blurb:

 Dragos Cuelebre, Lord of the Wyr, needs to throw a party without maiming anyone.

That isn’t exactly as easy as it might sound.

After the destructive events of the last eighteen months, the Elder Races are heading to Washington D.C. to foster peace with humankind. Not known for his diplomacy skills, Dragos must rely on his mate Pia to help navigate a battlefield of words and polite smiles rather than claws. With Dragos’s mating instinct riding close to the surface, his temper is more volatile than ever and the threat of violence hovers in the air.

Then the human spouse of a prominent politician winds up murdered and Dragos and Pia must race against time to hunt down those behind it before they are held responsible for the crime.

Themes: dragons, shifters, paranormal

Rating: 3.5 stars

Heat Rating: 

Review:

 I love these little teaser trilogies that Thea Harrison has shared with us to keep us in suspense of upcoming novels.  This is actually the second round of such trilogies of short stories revolving around the leaders of the Were Demesne, Dragos and Pia Cuelebre, and their son Liam.  Those who have not read the series will probably be a little bit lost, but the story is still cute and gives enough backstory that you can enjoy it.  This story revolves around Pia and Dragos's trip to DC to schmooze with the human government officials that have been both pro and con on the issues of the Others.  While determined to put on a good show, Pia has made life much more difficult for Dragos, deciding it was time to expand their family and sending them both into a very distracting mating heat.  The laughs and sensuality between this husband and wife is by turns sidesplitting and libido-singeing.  When their first foray into Washington politics goes badly awry, Dragos has to think on his feet to keep their friends from becoming enemies and their enemies from starting world war 3. I enjoyed every second of this short story and am looking forward to the next story where Pia travels to Hollywood to liaise with the queen of the light elves. Once these three stories end we have a big story coming soon that I imagine will change a lot for these people.  Thea Harrison continues to amaze me with her imagination and writing skill and I am dying for more. Keep up the great work Thea and you will always have a fan in me.  

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

Note:

Dragos Goes to Washington is the first part of a three-story series about Dragos, Pia, and their son Liam. Each story stands alone, but fans might want to read all three in order as they will be released: Dragos Goes to Washington, Pia Does Hollywood, and Liam Takes Manhattan. (less)

Review: Family Values (Lone Star Lovers #8)

Family Values (Lone Star Lovers #8)

by Delilah Devlin 

Blurb:

When coming between three brothers, it's best to just let go.

Angelina Flores lived a perfect ranch-kid childhood, complete with three princes on horseback who treated their housekeeper's daughter like a princess. At age eighteen, the fairytale came crashing down when she realized she had to choose between Brand, Nate and Eli McAffee.

And when she did choose one she lost all three.

She's older now. Wiser, thanks to her college education and a few years distance. A distance she'd planned to maintain until her mother begs her to fill in at the ranch while she takes care of a sick relative.

The minute her boots hit the front porch, the memories come flooding back, right along with the hunger. It's tough to put the past behind her when temptation is so close. Especially since the brothers seem bound and determined to woo her. Separately. Together. Whatever it takes to keep her right where she belongs in their arms.

Warning: Three cowboys all aiming for the same goal, and one woman with the cajones to give it to them or wipe the floor with their butts, if necessary.

Themes: erotic, ménage

Rating: 3.5 stars

Heat Rating: 

Review:

 Ok so to be honest I have only read the first book in this series, but when I had the option to grab this story I couldn't resist.   Delilah Devlin has been a favorite author of mine for the short and sexy stories that she produces.  She can make even the shortest story totally sensual and make the reader fall in love with her characters quickly.   This story revolves around three brothers that have been in love with the same young woman for a LONG time and they have finally tricked her into coming back into their lives so they can show her how much they desire and love her.  Angel left her home and the men she loved after being humiliated and shamed by giving herself to one of them in youthful passion. Unable to resist her mother's plea to return home and care for them when she has to take a break to care for family, Angel never imagined she'd find herself confronted with three men that have decided she won't be getting away from them ever again.  Seeing the changes in the relationships in their little town, Brand, Nate, and Eli have decided that a traditional relationship isn't what they want.  Instead they will embrace the unorthodox and share the woman of their dreams making them a family once again.  Each of them has their own appeal for Angel and the sensuality each brings to their relationship leaves Angel floundering.  Brand with his intense and brooding love, his deep need to protect and his alpha tendency to take over provided a safe place for Angel and make her want to give him her heart.  Nate's laughter and silliness keep Angel from forgetting to enjoy the lighter side of love and the fun that can be had when you share your joys with others.  And Eli is the sweet and loving softhearted guy that she has always needed to balance her life.  Together the four of them could cause a brush fire to burn down their world, but coming together in love will give them a chance at a future.  Another fun and sexy read, with heart, which left me wishing the story was longer. 

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

review: Falling Under (Ink & Chrome #2)

Falling Under (Ink & Chrome #2)

by Lauren Dane

Blurb:

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Lauren Dane delivers the second book in her dark, gritty and romantic Ink & Chrome series

Duke Bradshaw, co-owner of the custom motorcycle shop Twisted Steel, is great with his hands and not afraid to get dirty . . . especially in his fantasies about his redheaded neighbor Carmella Rossi.

Carmella has been secretly lusting after her hot, tattooed neighbor for the last three years. His gravelly voice combined with the throaty purr of his custom bike never fails to send thrills down her spine. When Duke asks her to join him at the shop, she can't say no. Soon their days together spill over into nights that bring her pleasure beyond anything she imagined. But Carmella grew up with bikers, and knows how bad a bad boy can be. Can she put herself at risk for someone who has heart-breaker written all over him?

Themes: Contemporary, Bikers

Rating: 4.5 stars

Heat Rating:

Review:

Longtime fans of Lauren Dane are in for quite a treat as we return to the sexy, hard-edged world of bikes, tattoos and crazy relationships.  I have enjoyed many different series by Dane over the years, but consider myself really fortunate to have had the chance to read these stories.  The second installment is no less emotionally stripped than the first in the series, with lots of family drama, terrifying truths revealed and the intense relationship between two passionate individuals.  I loved seeing Duke meet his match in Carmella even though he definitely made a few bonehead moves that almost cost him the love of his life, but in the end they found a way to get past everything between them to come together in a truly loving and lasting relationship.  Dane' ability to bring together two people that are so very different on the outside and prove to readers that all you really need is love, is beyond measure and keeps us coming back for more.  I am really looking forward to the next story in the series--though I understand it will be veering a bit from the mainstream with a Ménage relationship for Mick.  If you enjoy a great, sexy, and emotional drama The Ink and Chrome series is right up your alley, especially if you like a bit of kink along the way to go with the love and devotion. 

Duke has been watching the sweet and sexy woman that is his neighbor for a couple of years now and when an opportunity to get her to spend more time with him comes up he jumps at it.  Carmella is reluctant to take the job as her beyond gorgeous neighbor's shop manager, but the draw of a steady paycheck and fulfilling new opportunity is enough to trick her into believing she can keep herself away from him--after all he doesn’t seem to want her in anything more than a professional way, right? Wrong! As Carmella and Duke spend more time together, both at work and at home, the mutual attraction proves too intense for resistance.  Unfortunately, Carmella’s personal life has just gotten infinitely more complicated and emotionally devastating.  Can Duke stand by her and convince her to lean on him or will her stubborn insistence on independence push away the only man she has ever loved?

So what to say about Duke?... well first I have to say he is so freaking sexy there is really no way to describe him.  Tattoos cover his body, but not enough to hide the muscles, gorgeous skin, or the sexy eyes that follow Carmella's every move.  He is all man, proven again and again as he makes stupid mistakes out of his concern; there were enough bonehead moments that I found myself looking to the heavens for the patience not to want to kill him for Carmella, but thankfully he pulls his head from his butt and becomes her white knight.  He is the type of guy that makes the best hero; with enough flaws to keep him from being boring and the infinite sweetness that proves he will be a good husband, and maybe father, to his future family.  When Carmella needs him, whether she wants to admit it or not, he is right there to protect and defend, even if all she needs is just to know he is there for her if she needs him.  His unyielding support in the end is what pushes Carmella right into love with him, IMO, but the sexy and fun nature he hides behind his brooding and protective outer shell could have a bit to do with it too.  And of course the way he stands together with his brothers, brothers formed by the darkest of pasts, is another big point in his favor.

Carmella is an interesting woman and one that has never really been able to spread her wings and try to fly.  She has been the one caring for her mother for most of her life, being the adult and parent more than her mother ever was and never getting a single real thanks for it.  Her inner strength and ability to care for those that obviously don't appreciate all she does could have made her seem like a sucker, but she is willing to stand up for herself and what she believes in when push comes to shove.  Her interactions with her parent(s) and the way she stands up to Duke when he's being a douchbag show the backbone she covers with sweetness and sensuality is made of titanium and unbendable.  I enjoyed seeing her find a way to bring Duke to his knees and show him that love and trust are the ultimate gifts.  She was gentleness to his fiercely protective nature, but she wasn't a woman to be cowed in the face of adversity.  I loved the way she was able to find ingenious ways to bring Duke to his knees while still lifting him up.  Carmella is a girl after my own heart. 

In the end this story brings to life its title as each of these two headstrong and amazing individuals find themselves falling under love's spell. Duke and his ass-hattery thankfully find a way to convince Carmella he’s worth the trouble and to give him a chance to become the man she needs in every way.  Duke is an amazing guy, though by no means perfect, and when he is at his best there are very few men that compete with him for Carmella's heart.  Carmella has had a rough life and she has issues with trusting in men or giving them the chance to really capture her heart. When she is confronted with the immense force that is Duke she will not be able to stop herself from falling in love with him.  Carmella and Duke were a perfect match once they got over there issues and decided that being together was more important that their hang-ups.  Not to be discounted is the burning passion and attraction they have been fighting from a distance and try to keep from overwhelming them, even though they fail miserably (or happily).  I cannot wait for the next in the series and wonder if there will be more after that, but Mick's tale has been long in the making and to finally find out the truth and see him find love will be immensely awesome. Dane has done it again and there is no denying that Ink and Chrome will fill my heart and mind for a long time to come.

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

Mini-Review: Wicked Edge (Realm Enforcers #2)

Wicked Edge (Realm Enforcers #2)

by Rebecca Zanetti

Blurb:

Daire Dunne is more than ready to take a quick break from his duties as a Coven Nine Enforcer. When he spots a sexy blonde across a Titan’s of Fire party, it’s not long before she’s on the back of his Harley on the fast track to his apartment. Unfortunately, one overheated kiss in, the woman drugs Daire and steals valuable files that can’t fall into enemy hands. The second he comes to, the hunt is on...

Now that Cee Cee has the information to take down an enemy that destroyed her family, she can implement her perfect plan for revenge. Nothing will stop her, not even a shockingly sexy enforcer barging into her life. Not even the spectacular, fire-branding sex engulfing them. But if Daire ever figures out who her family really is, all bets are off...

Themes: Vampires, Demons, Witches, Paranormal

Rating: 4.5 stars

Heat Rating: 

Review:

 The world of the Dark Protectors continues to expand as we learn more and more about the evils plaguing the witches and their allies while falling in love with more and more Dunne family members.  This spin-off series keeps me coming back, proving to be as entertaining and sensual as the original series.  The witches have their own unique issues coming to a head, but for sure their allies continue to be involved in keeping them safe and causing them drama.  Those fans of the Dark protectors’ series will be surprised by Cee Cee's intensity and will find Daire's relationship with her beyond hilarious.  Though there is a lot of darkness and anger in this series, Zanetti's writing greatness and her ability to make her characters comes to life keeps the story from becoming depressing.  Daire is witty and sarcastic while also being deadly and sensual; his interactions with Cee Cee as they find outrageous obstacles in their path show true heart while being wonderfully sweet and sexy.  Cee Cee on the other hand has got some real issues with her past it is time to come to terms with, despite her determination to accomplish her mission she finds herself falling for the crazy and enchanting witch that she used to further her goals.  The way that Cee Cee and Daire keep finding themselves in impossible situations and always seem to find their way out, while keeping one another safe and also kicking serious ass and taking down their enemies makes the story lively for sure.  They each use their skills to the best of their abilities, but prove that coming together to form a team is the best way to really win their battles.  For new readers I will promise you enjoy this story all on its own, but can guarantee that if you take the time to go back and read the previous stories you will fall in love with this series like so many of us have. I'm looking forward to whoever's story comes next and learning where the world of the Allies will be going next.

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

Review: Passion Ignites (Dark Kings #7)

Passion Ignites (Dark Kings #7)

by Donna Grant 

Blurb:

He consumed her with that kiss, leaving no question that whatever was happening between them was meant to be—that it had always been meant to be…
HE LOVES FOR ETERNITY

Thorn is the bad boy of the Dragon Kings, a gorgeous, reckless warrior whose passions run wild and fury knows no bounds. When he sees the brave, beautiful Lexi being lured into the Dark Fae’s trap, he has no choice but to rescue her from a fate worse than death. But by saving this tempting mortal, he exposes himself to his fiercest enemy—and darkest desires. As the war between Dragons and Fae heats up, so does the passion between Lexi and Thorn. And when love is a battlefield, the heart takes no prisoners…

SHE LIVES FOR VENGEANCE

Lexi is on a mission of justice. Every day, she searches for the monster who murdered her friend. Every night, she hides in the shadows and plots her revenge. But the man she seeks is more dangerous than she ever imagined. He is one of the Dark Fae who preys on human life, who uses his unearthly power to seduce the innocent, and who is setting a trap just for her. Nothing can save Lexi from a creature like this—except the one man who’s been watching her every move…

Themes: Dragon Shifters, Magic, Fae, Paranormal

Rating: 4 stars
Heat Rating: 
Review:

Here there be Dragons! (Sorry, couldn't resist) Anyways... The sexy Dragon Kings are back and the story continues in a big way with Thorn and Lexi finding love in the most unexpected of situations.  If you are a fan of the series I don't have to tell you that the war is mounting and we are seeing a new side to many of these beloved characters while meeting new deliciously gorgeous Kings as they waken to join their brethren in a battle long awaited.  The overall story arc has become more and more complicated with each consecutive story and Thorn's tale brings even more drama and danger to their world.  I was surprised by the way many characters came to terms with actions in this story as well as the changes in their personality.  And of course we are all still waiting on pins and needles to discover what the future holds for Rhi and the identity of her Dragon King lover. I am looking forward greatly to the next in the series and continue to hope that the torture to find out the secret won’t be too long in coming. 

Thorn has just recently awakened so we haven't learned a lot about him, but as his story unfolds and we learn more about him it becomes apparent that he's a great guy and will make a wonderful  mate for Lexi.  Lexi has been on the hunt for the "Red Eyes" that killed her best friend, but it has placed her directly in the path of the Dark Fae that she has been stalking.  Thankfully Thorn is on the job and soon he has to face the fact that the draw he feels for her is more than just his innate desire to protect humans.  As they work together to defeat their joint enemies and Lexi learns Thorn's secret the passion between them become undeniable and love quickly develops. 

Thorn turns out to be a really interesting character.  Though he has only recently rejoined the world he is a staunch believer in the King's responsibility to protect the human world from the Dark that has invaded, and he relishes each chance to kill his enemies.  When Lexi stumbles into a world she is completely unprepared for, Thorn is determined to keep her safe even as she resists.  His sexiness is undeniable and there is no way that he will be able to keep his hands off of her, but his true greatness is his unwillingness to ever let any danger find Lexi.  Lexi on the other hand is crazy as hell and needs to have some sense knocked into her head, which thankfully Thorn manages to do.  She begins her quest to find her friend's killer with noble intentions, but she has no idea what she is truly in for, even though she is very determined.  When she finally learns the truth her bravery is unparalleled and the way she fights to save her life and protect Thorn is wonderful.  Lexi turns out to be a great character in the end, once she understands she's not going to be able to defeat her enemy with her strength only with her smarts.  The combination of Thorn's determination and Lexi's disregard for her safety make them a perfect counterpoint to one another and show that sometimes opposites attracting can lead to the biggest and brightest explosions. 

Passion Ignites is a story of two people with the same goal and totally opposite ways of operating in life coming together to accomplish a goal and in the end finding that the greatest mission in life is finding love for life. The story has developed into a truly complicated and convoluted overall arc and I am really looking forward to what comes next in this series.  Thorn is a good man, even though he's a millennia old Dragon shifter, and he has finally found the woman that will capture his heart.  He is determined to keep the humans safe and when he finds Lexi he takes on her mission for himself.  He is sexy, smart, sweet, and strong and there is no way that he is going to allow her to continue on her own.  Once Lexi comes to her senses she becomes more interesting.  I enjoyed seeing her stand up for herself and find a way to defeat enemies so much more deadly than her.  The desire and love between these two develops quickly but will be lasting.  Getting to see previous couples as well was very interesting and the ending with multiple matings was awesome.  I continue to fluctuate on my feelings about Constantine and Ulrick, but I think in the end they are more alike than either of them would like to admit, neither all good nor all bad, but living somewhere in the grey in between. Rhi's secrets and the changes in her soul continue to leave me panting for future stories and I can only hope Grant runs out of Kings soon so we can finally learn the identity of her lover and find out if she will find her way back to serenity.

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

Mini-Review: Bearing It All (Highlander's Beloved #3)

Bearing It All (Highlander's Beloved #3)

by Vonnie Davis

Blurb:

A Scottish hunter and a French secret agent find themselves on a collision course

with danger—and irresistible desire—in Vonnie Davis’s new bear-shifting Highlander novel, perfect for fans of Jennifer Ashley and Shelly Laurenston.

In the pine-dense mountains of the Scottish Highlands, shape-shifter Ronan Matheson is running free when a desperate woman parachutes out of the sky, directly onto his furry, powerful chest. Instead of clawing her to death, Ronan’s inner bear longs to keep her safe. Once he’s back in human form, Ronan is amused by the mysterious beauty’s fearless attitude—and tempted by her expertly toned physique. But what could she possibly be doing in this isolated stretch of the Highlands?

French intelligence agent Anisa Brosseau never imagined she’d be on the CIA’s bad side—until she’s framed for treason and forced to flee in a stolen drone. Hiding out in a remote cabin, Anisa just needs some time to clear her name. What she doesn’t need is a brooding, muscle-bound Scot in a skimpy kilt to drive her crazy with lust. But when Anisa’s enemies come knocking on his door, Ronan calls on a secret weapon to protect his turf and the bonny lass he’s come to love.

Themes: shifters, paranormal

Rating: 3.5 stars
Heat Rating: 
Review:

 Those sexy Highland bears have returned for another adventure in the story of Bear Shifters that run a small town and resort high in the highland mountains.  The clan has had some serious mishaps lately as the Laird and his brothers have found their mates in women that are beyond interesting.  If you are a fan of stories about sexy alpha shifters finding the women of their dreams during an outrageous adventure and ultimately saving the day, then this story and this series is definitely for you.  While I can honestly say I have enjoyed each book in this series, I found this one just the slightest bit hard to believe in the beginning.  Too many unexplainable coincidences made me wonder how the story was going to come back to earth, but in the end she managed to make me believe that it could actually have happened.  Ronan is a very lovable guy, even if he is beyond silly sometimes and Anisa is certainly a badass lady-spy after my own heart.  There are lots of laughs and sighs as the two work together to survive their enemies and fall in love.  Vonnie takes the shifter angle one step farther with Ronan actually conversing with his alter-ego,him and the bear being a separate character and personality.  The passion between Ronan and Anisa certainly flared each time they were together, even though Anisa resisted the draw at first.  I thoroughly enjoyed this story and am looking forward to seeing what is next for this clan of sexy bear shifters.  In the end the story was a sweet and light read to warm the cold winter nights and make me dream of my own trip to the highlands one day.  The bears have invaded and there’s no stopping them now!

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

ARC Review: Walk Through Fire (Chaos #4)

Walk Through Fire (Chaos #4)

by Kristen Ashley 

Blurb:

Millie Cross knows what it's like to burn for someone. She was young and wild and he was fierce and even wilder-a Chaos biker who made her heart pound. They fell in love at first sight and life was good, until she learned she couldn't be the woman he needed and made it so he had no choice but to walk away. Twenty years later, Millie's chance run-in with her old flame sparks a desire she just can't ignore. And this time, she won't let him ride off . . .

Bad boy Logan "High" Judd has seen his share of troubles with the law. Yet it was a beautiful woman who broke him. After ending a loveless marriage, High is shocked when his true love walks back into his life. Millie is still gorgeous, but she's just a ghost of her former self. High's intrigued at the change, but her betrayal cut him deep-and he doesn't want to get burned again. As High sinks into meting out vengeance for Millie's betrayal, he'll break all over again when he realizes just how Millie walked through fire for her man . . .

Themes: Contemporary, Bikers

Rating: 4.75 stars
Heat Rating: 
Review:

Coming full circle in any relationship is never easy, but once again the writing genius of Kristen Ashley accomplishes the impossible, bringing back together two very different people that have loved and lost each other once, but never really gotten over one another.  This story was hard to read in a lot of ways, mainly because the heart-wrenching love these two shared has become so hard and brittle, almost turning to hate, but luckily it never made it the whole way.  For long time Kristen Ashley fans, Logan “High” Judd has been a character to love/hate from the beginning of the introduction of the Chaos MC into our lives.  It has been obvious to readers that High has a long story, but he was seldom shown in a positive light, leaving us wondering why he was such a bastard and in this story we finally learn why and see that he isn’t as bad as we always thought.  I have been personally looking forward to this story for a while now and was thrilled to have the chance to review it, but I can honestly say I never imagined just how much I would fall in love with High and Millie and certainly never imagined how much I’d be crying as I read their truth.  Getting to see both their past and their present as they come to terms with the new direction in their lives, I can definitely see that these two were always meant to be together, even though they spent two decades apart.  I am dying to find out whose story will be next, though I have my suspicions and if I’m right, boy are we in for some serious heartbreak, realigning and changes in this club and their families. 

It would be hard to explain all that happens in this story without spoilers so I’m just going to say that this is a story of two people that were once each other’s entire world coming back together after decades apart.  Twenty years ago Millie and Logan were inseparable, but a tragedy convinced Millie it would be best to push him out of her life, best for him, and she sacrificed the love of her life so that he would have what he most wanted in the world.  All these years later Millie has never stopped loving Logan and when she comes face to face with that truth she is determined to face him and explain exactly what made her push him away, but all the hurt and anger has turned Logan into a true bastard where Millie is concerned.  High has lived the last twenty years, never really getting over Millie or the way she ripped out his heart, but when the truth of their past finally comes to light there is nothing that will keep him from reclaiming the other half of his soul.  Outside forces, from a psychotic enemy of Chaos to the bratty behavior of one of his daughters, continuously try to pull them apart, but after all their years apart, Logan will do whatever it takes to keep Millie safe and make her his woman once and for all. 

Like I said Logan began this story as a serious bastard!  When Millie comes to him he treats her like she is a piece of ass just there for his pleasure, even though he still loves her under all the pain and hatred he’s nursed so long.  It is obvious he is hurting, but the way he treats her is really unforgivable, but luckily for him, Millie is way more forgiving than I.  Once the truth comes out, Logan becomes a sweetly determined man, one who is unwilling to let their past continue to keep them apart and will do just about anything it takes to bring her back into his life and make her his woman.  I loved seeing him interacting with his daughters and his brothers, though of course he is a different man with them and a whole other person with Millie.  All the facets of the sexy, badass, and sweet biker make him the perfect guy.  His best quality IMO was the way he was able to see the light and once he got the whole story, understood just what Millie has gone through, alone, all these years while he was continuing to live his life and find the happiness that Millie always wanted for him.  The Logan that we have seen in the past gets a huge overhaul, turning him from an angry, vindictive, jackass of a biker into the sweet, loving, and family driven man that lives under all he badass biker-ness, but leaving the hotness factor that is apparent in all the Chaos brothers. 

Millie was a woman that could jerk on my heart and make me want to scream at her in the next breath to pick herself up and kick Logan in the nuts already.  She has obviously loved him for over half of her life, never getting over him, even once she was successful in pushing him away.  Faced with the serious sexiness of the fully grown biker she loved when he was a young man, Millie is determined to make him understand her motives and given him the closure he needs on their past, but as soon as he touches her, the passion flares back to life in her and leaves her floundering with desire and need.  I can certainly understand how things get out of hand for Millie, but I loved that she was finally able to stand up to Logan and give him the truth, but was very confused about her surprise to his reactions.  She should have known that as soon as the truth was revealed he would be all over her, making her see that they should never have been apart and bringing her back into his life once and for all.  Millie was a perfect combination of innocent and sexy, with a bit of her own badass personality thrown in to make her a match for Logan in every way.  She continues to sacrifice for Logan and even puts her life on the line for one that he loves, but the best part of Millie is her unwillingness to accept anything less than everything from the man who holds her heart and soul. 

All in all I have to say this story was one of the most emotional I have read in a long, long time, even having read the previous novels Ms. Ashley has released; honestly the woman is capable of reducing me to a blubbering mess one second and turning me on enough to want to attack my man in the next.  Skill like that is the reason I keep coming back to read more, knowing she will be tearing out my heart every time.  Logan is the perfect non-hero to me, a real jackass that wants what he wants no matter the cost to himself, and being with Millie is what he has wanted deep down for almost twenty-five years.  Once he learns the secret she has kept from him for so long, there is nothing that will ever keep him from claiming her and making her see the mistake she made in leaving him.  Millie never imagines just how much she needed to confront Logan and make him see her not as a bad-guy but as a woman that walked through fire to give him his deepest desire in life.  She has never gotten over their love and has gone through her lonely life without ever really living until he crashes back into her world changing it irrevocably.  The passion between High and Millie was undeniable, even when tinged with anger and hatred, but once the love returns the pages simply burn with their desire and hunger for one another.  Love lost is often the most heart-wrenching, but seeing Logan and Millie find their way back into each other’s arms, through all the hatred and secrets was an experience I will never forget and the veritable genius of Kristen Ashley in bringing these two back together is what makes an author one for the record books.  I was skeptical about this series from the beginning, mainly because of the first person POV, but I find myself falling more and more in love and can honestly say, whatever you write next, Kristen, will be landing on my shelves and improving my life. 

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