Review: Ride the Tide (Deep Six #3)

Ride the Tide (Deep Six #3)

by Julie Ann Walker 

Blurb:

Once a fighter, always a fighter...

Former Navy SEAL Mason McCarthy is done being a fighting man. Now he and the Deep
Six Salvage crew are working feverishly to find the wreck of the Santa Cristina and its legendary sunken treasure. Unfortunately for Mason's peace of mind, chatty, brilliant historian Alexandra Merriweather has joined the hunt and there's no avoiding her. Alex is exactly the kind of distraction Mason can't afford right now...or maybe ever.

When a murderous enemy from Mason's past threatens the Deep Six, he must rely on old instincts and the skills he honed from years of running black ops to make sure nothing touches Alexandra. But with their lives on the line and the adrenaline running high, it's inevitable that sparks will fly.

Themes:  Contemporary

Rating: 3.5 stars

Heat Rating: 
Review:

The Deep Six series has been has an all new love story in this addition with the story of Mason and Alex finally crossing the line into romance from just friends.  Julie Ann Walker is a great author that has been captivating reader for years with the Black Knights series and her newest series of SEALs turned salvage divers she has an all new bunch of hotties. I can honestly say that while I have been enjoying the installments of the Deep Six series, they are not as wonderful as the Black Knights series.  Mason has been trying to resist the draw of Alex’s beauty and sensuality since the first moment she came into his life, but the pull is becoming almost irresistible.  Alex has been trying to convince Mason that he is the only man she needs in her bed, but he is fighting her every second and at every turn. When dangers begins stalking the Deep Six guys once again, putting Alex’s life in danger right alongside them, Mason begins to understand that time is precious and he could lose Alex without ever having a chance to know her touch even once.  But will giving in to his baser desires heal his pain enough to open his heart and mind and give them a chance at a future? I find I enjoyed the overall storyline with the plot of the killers and the search for the treasure, but that being said I had some bigger issues with the romance and the H/h in this one.  Mason had his head up his butt about his relationship and emotions for Alex for entirely too long, so even though he was a strong, brave, and sexy guy, he was an asshat for most of the story.  Alex was a tiny bit annoying with the way she kept throwing herself at Mason, pretending she wanted him only for sex and never looking deeper for an emotional connection until it was almost too late for either of them. They both seemed like they needed a lot of growing up before they would be able to sustain a truly loving relationship.  But after a life-or-death situation (again) puts a few things into the light, both of them finally come to the conclusion that they do need to grow up.  The romance angle was just so fast, going from basically friends with benefits to HEA almost in a split second because they were both denying even to themselves the emotion they felt so long.   I will continue to give the series a chance because of my love of Ms. Walker’s writing, but I have high hopes for the next book considering I think I already know who the H/h will be and the connection between those two will be off the charts.

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

Review: Ancient Enemy (Ancients Rising #2)

Ancient Enemy (Ancients Rising #2)

by Katie Reus

Blurb:

She should be his mortal enemy.

Ancient dragon shifter Rhys awoke from his slumber hungry for revenge against the witch who killed his sister. When his hunt takes him to the rebuilding city of New Orleans, he finds a woman he can’t keep his eyes off—but she’s a witch. While Rhys wants to despise all of Dallas’s kind, even he can’t deny that she's beautiful, kind and…adorable. And her pet baby dragon only increases his fascination with the sexy woman. Protective instincts he never knew he had take over him as they hunt powerful monsters. He’s forced to confront everything he thought he knew about witches as his life is turned upside down.

But he wants her anyway.

Dallas Kinley is used to being hated because of what she is. Witches have always been the pariahs of the supernatural community. Until now, when the world needs rebuilding. Even though she wants to keep her distance from Rhys, vampires and humans are dying in New Orleans, so she vows to help him hunt down those responsible. But finding the enemy comes at a heavy price, because Dallas is hiding a terrible secret. As they race against the clock to find the murderers, she can only hope his need for revenge won’t rip them apart. Especially when he finds out what she’s been hiding from him.

Themes:  Paranormal, Witches, Dragons, Shifters

Rating:  4.5 stars

Heat Rating: 
Review:

 The saga continues with an all new story of Magick and mayhem that brings together a witch and a sexy dragon shifter that will come together to change the world. Katie Reus has a way with world building that is magnetic to readers and keeps readers coming back again and again to her series.  This new series began with an event that that changed the world and left the paranormal coming out of the shadows in order to protect mortals and lead the world out of the darkness. Dallas has hidden her light for a long time, keeping her magic to herself for the most part because witches were second-class citizens in the paranormal world, but as soon as Rhys sees her he knows she is special. Rhys and Dallas are forced to work closely together for the good of their new community, but Rhys has an ulterior motive that might just tear their newly forming bond apart at the seams.  Rhys knows he wants Dallas, but letting go of a grudge he’s held for millennia is truly difficult beyond imagining even if he knows it may cost him the single most important thing in his long life.  The heat between Rhys and Dallas was wonderful to experience from the very beginning, but the issues between them kept them apart for too long.   Rhys is a good male, with a strong need to protect and avenge those he loves, but he also needs to learn that sometimes we have to let go in order to move on and find happier times. I loved seeing him growing under the heat of Dallas’s love and it was amazing to watch him kicking butt and taking names to protect his woman. Dallas has a fierceness and bravery that belies her sweetness and loving nature, but you can see from her connection to her pet and the earth that she is the type of Earth Mother personality that one just does not fuck with.  She will use everything at her disposal to protect those she deems as in need of her help and certainly those she loves.  She was the perfect match for Rhys and I enjoyed getting to see her bloom and expand on her magic as she came out of the shadows and found her place in the world.  I am really looking forward to the next story in this series and cannot wait to find out which Dragon falls under love’s spell next and who will be wielding the binding magic. Great work, once again, Katie.  

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

Review: Watch Me (Phoenix #1)

Watch Me (Phoenix #1)

by Stacey Kennedy

Blurb:

It’s her choice to play his game. If she says yes, there will be more on the line than just her pleasure.

Zoey Parker has a three-step plan for revenge. First, gain entrance to the ultra-exclusive, upscale sex club, Phoenix. Second, act out her wildest fantasy in front of powerful old rivals, proving that they didn’t break her. Third, disappear and never return. The only kink in her plan? Rhys Harrington, the owner of Phoenix and the one man she needs to stay away from…

Rhys’ high-end clients pay extravagant amounts to watch his stars indulge their desires. Rhys’ only rule? Watch, don’t touch. But one look at Zoey and Rhys decides to participate in the show himself. And when an undeniable passion ignites between them, Rhys knows he wants more. Except Zoey is determined to run… and he is determined to find out why.

When Rhys discovers Zoey’s secret, he shocks her by offering his protection… and a no-strings-attached relationship. But Zoey knows there will be more on the line than just her pleasure. Because Rhys’ sizzling touch doesn’t only capture her body, it also commands her heart

Themes:  Erotica

Rating:  4 stars

Heat Rating: 

Review:

 An all new and extremely sensual story begins where a group of amazing and sensual men have come together to create a safe place for people to live out their fantasies and we begin at the top with the owner of the Phoenix club breaking every rule for the woman that steals his heart. Stacey Kennedy always manages to find the most unique way to look at the world and brings us along for the ride as she explore the sexuality of non-mainstream lovers and folks just living their lives the way that makes them happy in a safe way.  Zoey was destroyed when a couple of punks tried to break her in her senior year of college and she spent the last year trying to find a way to get her justice, but she never thought it would entail giving away her virginity in front of a group of people to a sexy stranger.  Rhys has owned the Phoenix club for several years, using it as his escape and solace since his world imploded, but when he takes the sexy masked woman into his arms his world changes irrevocably.  Together Zoey and Rhys embark on a forbidden affair and at the same time the truth of the depth of her attackers depravity begins to put her into a precarious spot.  In the end they have to decide if they are both willing to let go of their past hurts in order to have the future that they both want and need—together. I loved Rhys from the moment he stepped onto the scene, his sexiness and power were undeniable and I found him magnetic, but my favorite moments were the simple ones when he was sharing quiet time getting to know Zoey.  He was sweet, loving, and devoted to her happiness and giving her everything she needed.  Zoey obviously has some serious issues but she is working with them as best she can and with the assumptions of what will make her happy, but meeting Rhys changes all of that in a second. She was smart, sassy, and when she unleashed on Rhys it was obvious she was the perfect match for him.  Together they will conquer any fear and beat any challenge that comes their way.  I am dying for the next book in the series and cannot wait, because I think I already know how each of the men and women will be paired off and those combinations are going to be explosive.  Awesome beginning and I foresee great things to come for this series.

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

ARC Review: Everspell (The Kindred #5)

Everspell (The Kindred #5)

by Donna Grant

Blurb:

To live in the light, they hunt in the dark…

Runa is used to mysteries. Fortunately, she’s skilled at using those things to her advantage. Until some truths about her past are revealed, and her world is shaken to its very core. Now, she has her sights set on finding and saving the family she’s never known. What wasn’t in her plans is the sexy, mysterious stranger who seems to find her over and over, taking her breath every time.

All his life, Brom knew he’d eventually have to find the Varroki and take his birthright. Then a witch lays out a nearly impossible choice before him, and Brom decides to follow his heart. The beautiful and enigmatic female he’s drawn to is more than captivating. She makes him want to reveal all his secrets. But doing so could be the difference between life and death—for both of them. Especially in the battle between good and evil where all of the relics of the First Witch are in play—and everyone has a hidden agenda.

Themes:  Paranormal, Magick, Witches

Rating: 4.5 stars

Heat Rating: 

Review:

The plot thickens and the final battle has arrived to determine if all the sacrifices and losses will be justified in the war against the evil witch stalking the lands.  I have been waiting so long now to see this evil defeated and was so glad to know that the big battle was coming but at the same time I am sad to see that the series might be ending—though I hope not. For fans of the series there has been a lot of sadness and this series has continuously had some very serious overtones of loss and defeat, but in the end we always knew that good would triumph over evil as it should. Grant has the ability to pull her readers in and remind us that sometimes darkness has to exist in order for us to truly appreciate the light when we encounter it and that Love is always the most important gift we can be given. I am hoping that more is coming in the series as the epilogue left us with more questions than answers and gave the inclination that more characters have stories to tell (maybe a spin-off?).  If you are looking for a story of great love, epic battles, magic and tragic loss this story will hit every angle and more.

Runa has been on her own, by choice for a long time now, serving no master but her skills as an assassin and finding her life fulfilling if not full.  An encounter with her newest target leads to the discovery of secrets about her life that change her forever and set her on a new path to find the truth and the family she never knew was out in the world.  While traveling to find and possibly rescue her family, she encounters the most amazing man and her world is altered again and even more profoundly. Brom has always followed his instincts, and when he sees a woman in his dreams he knows he cannot resist the pull to venture into the world and find her. Finding her proves easier than Brom would have thought, but keeping her proves to be an issue, even after they share an amazing night in one another’s arms.  Soon they are battling together, with some old friends and family, for their lives against the worst evil they have ever encountered and their lives truly do hang in the balance. Only by trusting in one another and their love will they survive the war, but even if they do, everyone in their circle might not make it through, leaving a disastrous loss behind.

Runa was a crazy character to try to get to know.  She has lived for so long in solitude, trusting no one, and opening her heart to Brom is nearly impossible for her.  I enjoyed seeing her mind work as she battled dangers and found her way in this new and terrifying world, but once her confidence in herself grows she learns how to handle herself quite nicely.  Her problem is that she doesn’t believe in asking for or accepting help from others, always going it alone, so the concept of working as a team is nearly impossible for her to understand and she sets out on her own falling in to disaster all too often. I found that her bravery was my favorite trait, but I never really was able to fully connect with her on her own, but paired with Brom she was perfect. Brom is the perfect man, let’s just be honest.  He’s sweet, brave, determined, and goes after the woman he wants no matter what stands in his way, literally keeping her alive almost to the point of losing his own life. Brom has lived his life by the beat of his own drum, from the beginning, and he knows that being with Runa is his destiny, even if it isn’t in this life.  I loved every moment that he was on the page and was sad to see the story end just because I wanted more time with him.  I would have loved to see him and Runa get more time to develop a friendship and romance, but I understand the immediacy and need in this epic battle story. All in all they were the perfectly matched rock-and-hard-place couple that were needed to end the fight of the ages.

Everspell is a tale of two people that are destined not only for one another, but to be the key to the ending of the fight between the deadly evil Witch stalking the world and those that have been battling her and those like her for years.  While I can honestly say the ending broke my heart in a lot of ways, I hope the series doesn’t end here because these characters and the world they inhabit continues to intrigue me and keep me wanting more. Brom is the man that we all want by our sides; steadfast, sensitive, strong, sweet, and sensual, he is the type of character that carries the story and keeps you reading no matter how hard you might be pulled back into the real world.  Runa was a good match for him, despite being a little bit foolhardy and sometimes not fully thinking out her actions.  I would have loved her to be more thoughtful of those in her group and take in account those in her circle, but she was too slow to trust.  The passion between them was a steady undercurrent and the few times it came out were a blaze to witness, but we didn’t get nearly enough time with them together for me.  I loved the story in all, though the romance was a little less than normal for me, mostly due to the epic battles, the overall resurgence of previous characters and the weaving together of previous storylines into one fabulous arc.  I am sad to have seen some parts of the ending and hope to see happy endings from that in future stories, but I will just have to (try to) be patient and wait.  Another great story Donna!

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

Review: Bane's Choice (Vampire Motorcycle Club #1)

Bane's Choice (Vampire Motorcycle Club #1)

by Alyssa Day 

Blurb:

Bane lost his humanity ages ago. Nothing is more important than protecting his Vampire Motorcycle
Club from the death magic invading his territory. The most ancient of vampires, he seeks cold, unfeeling, bloody vengeance...until a frustratingly sexy human doctor is thrust into his path. She tempts Bane to distraction. And distraction is deadly in his world.

Buttoned-up and meticulous Dr. Ryan St. Cloud never thought she’d find herself in the mix of a motorcycle club, let alone one full of terrifyingly badass vampires. Or how intrigued she is by their dark and enigmatic leader, who seems balanced on the knife’s edge of killing her...or claiming her.

But Bane’s choice is harder than it seems, because when that danger hits too close to home, he’s forced to choose between her life and everyone else’s…

Themes:  Paranormal, Vampires, MC

Rating: 4 stars

Heat Rating: 

Review:

 So a new series from one of my favorite authors begins with the story of a motorcycle club, entirely comprised of badass vampires and none more so than their president.  Alyssa Day has been one of my favorite authors since I stumbled into her Atlantis series long ago and I have been a loyal fan ever since, so when I read that she was beginning a new venture I was thrilled. This series kicked off with a bang and then only got more and more intense as the heroine Dr. Ryan St. Cloud found herself in a new world that she never new was buried in the shadows of her own. Bane has run his club for a lot of years and protects his people, vampire and mortal, with an iron fist, so when one of his mortal allies if mortally injured he ventures into the hospital to try to save him.  There his and Ryan’s worlds collide as she tries to stand between him and his dying friend.  Bane has never met a more interesting and magnetic mortal and he finds himself drawn to Ryan again and again, soon leading to him pulling her deeper into his world and ultimately into his bed and heart.  Ryan knows she is putting her life in danger with Bane and his family, but she cannot resist him and soon she has fallen so deep there is no going back.  I loved this story and getting to know both Bane and Ryan.  Each of them had a lot of issue to work through, but once they found their balance, they were truly an unstoppable force and a perfect match for one another.  The passion between these two was an inferno from the very beginning and as they found their balance it settled into a blaze that will definitely last their long lives together.  I am dying to know what happens next in this world of sexy, fascinating men and women. Another great series on the horizon!

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

Review: Shades of Darkness (Guardians of Eternity #16)

Shades of Darkness (Guardians of Eternity #16)

by Alexandra Ivy

Blurb:

The Guardians of Eternity think they’ve averted the disaster that could destroy them. But in New York Times bestselling author Alexandra Ivy’s world of temptation, lust, and secrets, one slip could change everything . . .

Chaaya endured centuries as a sacrifice, protecting her people from an evil that could destabilize all magic. At long last, her servitude is over—and she’s raring to have some fun. The baddest ghost-girl in Las Vegas has a talent for causing mayhem. And for getting under the skin of her solid, silent bodyguard, the vampire Basq . . .

Basq doesn’t let anyone close. He’s learned the costs of companionship. But reckless, disrespectful Chaaya, with her fiery temper and her fierce loneliness, isn’t like anyone else. Staying near her isn’t just a duty, it’s a hunger. When a prisoner of Chaaya’s last battle escapes, possibly seeking Chaaya’s nemesis, Basq isn’t letting her chase through a hellscape mirror London alone. But when the choice is between abandoning everything that’s kept them alive, or each other, survival will take not only desire—but trust . . .

Themes:  Paranormal, Magick

Rating:  3.75 stars

Heat Rating: 
Review:

 Well, this series certainly continues to get more and more interesting and intense, leading into new and terrifying world and discoveries. Ivy’s Guardians of Eternity series has been one of my favorites since almost the very beginning, not only because of the imaginative world building, but the sensual and spunky characters, and sassy and hilarious dialogue too. That being said, while this story certainly hit a lot of buttons on the plot and storyline, I was not as enamored of the romantic angle between Chaaya and Basq.  Chaaya came into the story a book or so ago when she appeared out of nowhere after having been instrumental in keeping a dangerous demon locked down for centuries, but no one knows what she is, how she has the powers she does, or where she comes from.  Determined to keep her safe, the demons have attempted to keep her at least somewhat sequestered in Las Vegas with Basq as her bodyguard, but she refuses to be contained anymore and is making their lives hell.  Basq wants to figure out the “ghost-girl” and understand why she draws him so completely, but the more she puts her life in danger the more annoyed with her he gets. When she is called back into service to hunt a dangerous criminal that has escaped from prison, Basq tags along—whether she likes it or not—and they soon find themselves trapped in a shadowing alternate world and have to depend on one another to survive.  But as the secrets of Chaaya’s past and future come to light, Basq also has to decide if the newly forming bond with his woman is enough to bring them through the dangers they face.  I very much enjoyed the overall plot and story for this book, despite all the jumping around between POVs and the side stories, and am looking forward to where the world is heading next.  The heat between Chaaya and Basq was a hit and miss, or maybe they just hid it well and it was hard to see, but when they figured out how important they were to one another they were both all-in mighty fast after having been so resistant to being with one another.  I lived both characters independently though.  Chaaya was a bit of a shit, but her sass and spunk was understandable considering her past, however I really got to like her when she began to grow up and see how important she was to those around her.  Basq was so often at his wit’s end that it was hard to see how he might have been under normal circumstances, but I think I would have liked him too.  The side story with Bridgett and Levet was fun too and I’m looking forward to reading more about her in future stories. All-in-all a pretty good read, though not my favorite in the series.

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

Mini-Review: A Very Witchy Yuletide

A Very Witchy Yuletide

by D. Lieber

Blurb:

First love is hard to forget, and even harder to ignore…

Evergreen Pendre wasn’t planning on going home for Yule. But when her Mom tells her the old coven is coming for a visit, she wants to see everyone. Well, almost everyone.

After four and a half years, Sawyer Collins finally has a chance to reconnect with his first love, Eeva Pendre. He might have been too shy to tell her how he felt before, but he’s changed. And he’s determined not to let her slip away this time.

As the coven prepares for Yule, they are reminded that not everyone has the holiday spirit in this contemporary Pagan holiday romance.

Themes:  Holiday, Contemporary

Rating:  3.25 stars

Heat Rating:  
Review:

Ok so this story jumped out at me as an offered read for two reasons, one being that I’m a pagan myself, and the other being that it looked like a sweet holiday story. Never having encountered the author or the publisher before I wasn’t sure what to expect and while I can say that I enjoyed the story I can’t say I was overwhelmed.  I enjoyed the premise of the story, two long time friends coming back together for a family holiday gathering with their friends and family, in this case their Pagan coven, to celebrate Yule, and finally connecting on a romantic level.  But there were way too many heavy messages trying to be conveyed along with the simple love story that was to have been the core of the book.  The heroine, Evergreen,  has a slight handicap in that she is legally blind, she has a societal handicap (as does the hero)in that he is not Christian at a time of year when that is truly the worst thing to be, and she was extremely self-confident in most situations with Sawyer.  All combined her having to overcome all of this made for a story where it seems like the author is just trying to crusade more than share a simple romantic story between two people.  I loved the connection between Sawyer and Evergreen when it was allowed to simply flow, but when the angst and miscommunication because juvenile I almost gave up on this book.  TO me adults just don’t live with that lack of communication between people that have been friends their entire adult lives more of less.  All in all I would say it was an enjoyable read, but I don’t think I will be running out to grab anymore of this author’s work, it just doesn’t seem to fit with my personal tastes for romance.

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

Review: Ancient Protector (Ancients Rising #1)

Ancient Protector (Ancients Rising #1)

by  Katie Reus

Blurb:

Even as he fights for their future…

With the world still rebuilding after massive dragon attacks, famous singer Star isn’t willing to rely on a stranger to protect her family—though dragon shifter Lachlan is difficult to resist. Something about him is strangely familiar, but she doesn’t understand why. He’s already helped Star rescue her sister from a recent abduction, but trust doesn’t come easy when his kind has nearly hunted her race to extinction. When her sister’s kidnapper launches another violent attack, Star has no choice but to accept Lachlan’s aid. But no matter that he’s stepped up to protect her, she’ll never allow the ancient Scottish dragon into her heart.

They’re bound by the past.

Lachlan lost the woman he was meant to mate millennia ago. Unable to live in a world without her, his pain drove him to hibernation. He never thought he would move on—until Star. He’s well aware the feisty shifter is his new destiny, so if tailing her to New Orleans is what he has to do to be near her, then so be it. When Star is attacked, Lachlan resolves to protect her at all costs. And he won’t have to do it alone. It will take Lachlan, his clansmen, and Star’s misfit band of friends to rain fiery vengeance down upon their enemy if she and her sister are to ever be truly free. Only then can he claim her and discover the shocking truth that lies buried in their past.

Themes:  Paranormal, Dragons, Shifters, Magick

Rating: 4.25 stars

Heat Rating: 
Review:

 An all new series begins in a world that has changed immensely but one thing remains the same—love conquers all. I have been looking forward to this new series since Katie ended her last series on, not really a cliffhanger, but with an event that reshaped the world and left mortals depending of those that have lived in the shadows for millennia.  The beings that were once myths to humans, that made us fear and hate, are the ones we have to depend on for life and safety, and none are more powerful than the dragons—or so we think. The story begins with a daring rescue as Star stages a mission to get her sister away from her captors, but soon she is settled into her new home in New Orleans where the safest and strongest community is thriving in this new world.  Lachlan watched from the shadows as Star escaped with her sister, but he knew he wouldn’t be letting her get too far as she pulled him immediately as only one other woman ever had. When Lachlan arrives on her doorstep, Star is entranced, but she had lived in secrecy for so long, hiding her true nature, that she can’t bring herself to trust him despite how much she is coming to care for him.  Lachlan lost the woman he loved millennia ago, but the more time he spends with Star the more he know she is the woman meant to make him whole again and spend the rest of their lives together.  An enemy stalking Star, however, and only by trusting their new relationship enough to reveal her deepest secret can they win the battle and have a chance at a future together.  I loved Star and Lachlan’s story which was filled with twists and turns, secrets and mysteries that were beyond interesting.  Lachlan was a sexy, sweet, and deadly alpha that would protect his woman to his last breath, but at the same time he knows that he needs to let her spread her wings and find her own strength.  Star has worked hard to get where she is in life, but she has no faith in men wanting her as a woman and not just as a trophy for what she is, until Lachlan shows her the true meaning of a partner. I enjoyed seeing these two work through their hangs ups and find their hearts together and make a future as a family with their little group of friends and Lachlan’s clan.  The heat and fire was there for this couple from second one that they interacted and there was no denying the passion they shared once they let down their walls. I am looking forward to the rest of this series with all the dragons and the new outlook on the world that everyone has to deal with.  Another treasure, Katie.

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

ARC Mini-Review: Whisky and Wishes (Dark Kings #19)

Whisky and Wishes (Dark Kings #19)
by Donna Grant

Blurb:

Return to New York Times bestselling author Donna Grant's Dark King world for a special holiday

novella.

Finally free of the dangers surrounding him and the burden of pining after his mate, the King of Dragon Kings is ready for some peace—time to enjoy the woman he loves without interruption. Sure, the matter of accessing the clans across the Dragon Bridge still looms, as does the ultimate Fate of Con and his brethren. But for now, Con plans to enjoy the people he loves and celebrate the holidays with those closest to him. Why borrow from tomorrow’s problems? When the time comes to confront what’s next, they will do it. Together.

Themes:  Holiday, Paranormal, Novella

Rating: 3.75 stars

Heat Rating: 

Review:

 Well the story continues with a short story of holiday magic and the magic of love between not just two mates, but all the Dreagan family.  Grant has ended a huge story arc recently and is just gearing up for the next stage in the lives of her Dragon Kings, but this short holiday story was a sweet bridge between those two stages.  While there are a few little mysteries thrown in and of course some loving between the most important mating in millennia to have finally happened, the focus truly is on the love of family and friends.  Con and Rhi are finally settling into their lives as mates and the others have taken this time of peace to get time away as well. But the manor is feeling a little too quiet for both Rhi and Con, so they decide the time is right to embrace the human traditions of celebrating the holidays.  Decorating the manor, planning a huge family meal, and celebrating the magic and love that has finally brought them back together Rhi and Con work together to bring everything to plan in time for their friends’ returns.  I really enjoyed seeing the love between Rhi and Con, reiterating how important they were to one another, but I also enjoyed knowing that even a love so epic had room in it for those around them to also be included.  They have serious issues with their futures and decisions must be made, however the holidays are a time of reflection and celebration so those hard choices can wait a little bit longer.  I am dying to see what comes next and where Grant will take this storyline, though I loved this short story immensely. If you loved Con and Rhi as much as I did, you will love this glimpse into their new mated lives as much as me and not regret a single second of reading this short story.

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

ARC mini-Review: A HOT Christmas Miracle (Hostile Operations Team #14.5)

 A HOT Christmas Miracle (Hostile Operations Team #14.5)

by Lynn Raye Harris 

Blurb:

Twenty years ago, badass military commander John “Viper” Mendez lost the love of his life. But fate brought them back together when he discovered she was still alive. Now they live a happily married life - and Kat’s pregnant. As Christmas approaches, they’re more in love than ever and looking forward to welcoming their new baby.

But old secrets begin to resurface and old enemies might be coming back to haunt them. The only way to know is to hire rogue mercenary Ian Black to do some dirty work while Mendez stays close to his wife and keeps her safe - and keeps the investigation a secret from her.

Christmas is a time of miracles. A season of snowy promises and gifts from the heart. When the holiday lights twinkle brightest, Mendez will either go on the offensive to save his family - or discover a truth that’ll change their lives forever.

Themes:  Holiday, Contemporary

Rating: 5 stars

Heat Rating: 

Review:

A return to our favorite couple and the love between them that just continues to grow stronger even decades and tragedy-after-tragedy later. The HOT team has stolen our hearts for years, none more so than its illustrious leader, General John Mendez, and while he is finally back in the arms of the love of his life, it never hurts to get another glimpse of their lives and love—and get to see a bit of a holiday miracle for them.  Mendez and Kat are moving forward with their lives together finally after being apart almost twenty years, and losing the child that they created together.  Kat is pregnant and about to give birth to their daughter, Mendez has been promoted to a General and has time finally to give to the life they are building together and spending the holidays together is more important than ever.  Both Kat and John are feeling the loss of their son this holiday as the look forward to welcoming their little one, but the holidays are going to bring up secrets from their past and might just offer them both a miracle that neither ever imagined could ever occur for them.  With the season of magic and miracles upon them, Mendez and Kat might just be given two of the greatest gifts of their lives if they embrace the love and light around them.  I loved this story with all the little plot twists (which I can’t hint at because it would spoil the magic) and the drama of the birth of their daughter. Kat and Mendez learn to rely and count on their HOT family as they have to cope with being new parents at the busiest time of the year, but we get to see a lot of old friends and enjoy their love for Mendez & Kat.  There were so many sweet and poignant moments in this relatively short story that I almost had to reach for the tissues to go with the chocolate supply! I am dying to see what happens next, but knowing that Mendez and Kat got two miracles to make their lives truly complete reminds us that the holidays truly are the best time of the year if we focus less on the material and more on the true importance of the season—love and family.  I cannot wait for the next book in the series, but if you have been dying for it as I have, this story is a great way to hold you over until that time.  Thank you for the holiday magic, Lynn!

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

ARC mini-review: Feliz Naughty Dog (The Dogmothers #5.5)

Feliz Naughty Dog (The Dogmothers #5.5)

by Roxanne St. Claire

Blurb:

Pru Kilcannon has one goal when she wakes on Christmas Eve – to perform the most “Random Acts of

Christmas Kindness” so she can spread cheer and ensure her high school wins the county-wide “RACK IT UP” contest. But when her friends decide to team up with their boyfriends, the ever-helpful Dogmothers enlist the new kid in school as Pru’s partner for the contest. And that means good-girl Pru has to spend the entire day with the broody, moody, and crazy cute bad boy Lucas Darling, and his chaos-causing greyhound, Tor.

As if that wasn’t enough holiday havoc, Pru and Lucas have to accompany the grannies on a secret mission to check out a man Yiayia has met on an online dating service. Gramma Finnie is convinced Aldo Fiore is a mobster, Yiayia thinks he’s her dream man, and Pru just wants to be sure her great-grandmothers don’t get themselves arrested — or worse. There’s no telling what could happen when the Dogmothers spy on an eighty-year-old who might be playing a rather flirtatious Santa at the mall…or might be hiding from the Feds.

But no one expected the real trouble to come from Tor, the former racing dog who causes mayhem and mall madness. As Pru and Lucas attempt to control Tor, supervise the Santa Stalking, and knock out a few random acts of kindness…they also give in to a delicious little Christmas crush that just might lead to some magic under the mistletoe this year!

Themes:  Holiday, Contemporary, Short story

Rating: 4 stars

Heat Rating: 

Review:

Well I love a good holiday comedy of errors and no one does it like Roxanne St. Claire and the Dogmothers (plus their granddaughter/honorary Dogmother) and this holiday season the craziness is at an all new high.  One granny is hunting love, another is feeling lonely and jealous, and one teenager is feeling her very first teenage crush on a boy that is thrown into her path by her Grannies. It is amazing the maze of crazy antics and drama that Rocki can squish into a single short story, but it never amazes me that she is able to bring such sweetness and holiday cheer into her stories.  I loved this story for several reasons and I will try to explain without providing too many spoilers. Firstly, you see one of the Dogmothers on a quest for love, but she soon realizes that everything she has been looking for was in front of her all along in her best friend and roommate (well almost everything, but we can do without that if we have the other stuff).  Another of the Grannies, has to come to terms with the fact that even at her age, sometimes change can be good and that the best kinds of change are the kind that come with love.   Next you have a teenager who is learning a lot, as she meets a young man that has caught her eye and is thrown into crazy situations that allow her to see right into his heart, reminding her how important it is to not judge a person on their looks, gossip, or their reputation only. All together these three ladies, some old and others young, are learning the most important lesson of the holidays, coming together with friends and family in love is the best and most important way to spend the holidays no matter how crazy it gets or how much work it takes to have a happy holiday. I loved every second of this story, and especially enjoyed getting to meet an all new dog with his own message to deliver and look forward to seeing him more as hopefully Pru and Lucas become closer friends in future novels.  This series continues to grow sweeter and more loving, but the most important thread remains the love of these Dogmothers that has come through the generations and will continue to the next.  Rocki gives us another holiday masterpiece with Santas, puppies, mobsters, and love all rolled into one sweet, magical, Christmas gift that I hope you all enjoy unwrapping as much as I did.

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

ARC Review: Dark Alpha's Caress (Reaper #10)

Dark Alpha's Caress (Reaper #10)
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’m coming for you…

Reborn to serve, I have never once questioned Death’s directives. Until my mission leads me to a Halfling who stirs things within me that I’ve never felt before. Sorcha’s past intrigues me, but not as much as the gorgeous and stubborn Halfling herself. Though the Others are no more, our enemies still lurk around every corner. I can feel it. But for her, I will battle whatever comes my way—be it present dangers or ghosts of the past.

Themes:  Paranormal, Fae

Rating: 4.25 stars

Heat Rating: 

Review:

So it is the dawn of an all new world for the Dark Kings and their friends, including the Reapers, in this tenth installment of the Reapers subseries set in the larger Dark Kings series. The previous story in the series saw a lot of changes including the end of one monarchy and the reuniting of one of the most powerful couples in the world as Con and his Queen Rhi finally found their HEA.  This story picks up shortly after that story ends, but there are several loose ends to take care of and the Reapers are the first to pull and snip a thread it seems.  If you are a fan of the series, then this story will definitely thrill you in so many ways as it is a bit of a return to the original stories, while giving a bit of an intro into the new arc for the Dark series we have coming soon.  I Loved every moment and am dying for more of the Reapers as well as the Kings and their other friends.  Donna Grant has lost none of her magic and the love of her readers is well warranted as she reminds us why we love her so much.

Cathal has been a Reaper since one of the most horrendous betrayals a person can imagine put him into Death’s sights, but he has spent that time proving that he is a better man than his enemies and showing that he is worthy of his second chance.  When he stumbles upon a Halfling in an unexpected and unwelcome moment, he is instantly intrigued and confused about her, but the more he learns the more concerned he becomes.  Sorcha hasn’t left her home on the Isle of Skye for almost a decade, but when her cousin asks for her skills in tracking a dangerous and possibly deadly group of Druids that have a clandestine meeting, she travels to Ireland to fulfill her promise.  On her return to Skye, her world quickly begins to change as she finds herself confronted with Fae at every turn, including the sexy and captivating Cathal, who has more secrets than even she does.  Then they are pulled into a dangerous situation and Cathal is determined to protect the Druid Halfling, not just because of her uniqueness or magical strengths, but because she draws him like no woman ever.  Soon they are undeniably connected and they have to decide if they are willing to sacrifice everything they know to have a future together or risk being separated forever.

I really enjoyed getting to know Cathal, as well as more of his team, as we haven’t met as many of the second team of Reapers to this point, but the best part of seeing how sweet he was to Sorcha and understanding when things just got too overwhelming to her. His strength and deadly skill in protecting her was never in doubt, nor was his willingness to give his life for her safety, but watching him slowly fall in love and come to understand how much he needed Sorcha softened him and allowed us to see the man he was before his betrayal and death.  He has been alive and bitter for so long, that Sorcha’s ability to soothe and calm the beast showed how much he needed her to make his life complete.  Sorcha has been living in guilt and fear for almost a decade, since the death of her mother and sister, but the self-isolation has led her to underestimate her own worth to the world.  Her skill and strength with magic, her intelligence and wit, and of course her willingness to jump right in and protect her friends show how good she is even if she doesn’t understand it herself.  Seeing Sorcha come to terms with her past and her understanding of her own identify was a reminder that sometimes we don’t even know the full story of ourselves and can learn more each and every day.  Seeing her come into her own, with Cathal’s help, and learning about her family and the love that she had for her family, showed her to be the perfect complement to Cathal’s fierceness and battle-hardened personality.

Dark Alpha’s Caress is a beginning to an all new world for these folks, but at the same time we get to see that there is always carry over and unhappiness no matter how hard you try to give everyone what they want or need.  The drama and intrigue that remains in the Fae as well as the Druid populations show that they are just as human as the rest of us and can never truly embrace peace without first pushing back a bit.  Cathal is a dangerous and deadly warrior that is faced with the most intriguing woman he has ever met and he is unable to resist her draw when he gets deeper into her world.  His willingness to do just about anything to get her the safety and peace she craves and deserves shows that he truly is a great mate and a good man.  Sorcha has been so isolated for so long, trusting anyone is a major challenge, but once he begins to break down her walls, the darkness inside her is washed away by the light of love that Cathal inspires in her.  The heat between them burns intensely from the very beginning, though they both denied it, even to themselves, until the point that it was no longer deniable.  I am dying to find out what happens next in this arc and see where this world will take us next, but I know that no matter what happens Grant will not let her readers down and we will enjoy every moment of the adventure.

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