Made the Grade: Hammered Series, Book 3 | #BookReview @quinnandelliott @cariquinn

Format Jess Read This Novel In: Kindle Edition
File Size: 1911 KB | Print Length: 252 pages
Publication Date: August 29, 2016
Publisher: Rainbow Rage Publishing | ASIN: B01L9Z51K8
Language: English | Main Genre(s): Contemporary Romance & Rockstar Romance
Jess Obtained This Book Through: Amazon

"Manipulated" [Hammered Series, Book 3] by Cari Quinn & Taryn Elliott

Author's Book Description : My name is Owen Blackwell, and I’m currently in recovery.

Not from what you think, though I do enjoy a bit of whiskey.

No, my issue is that I fell foolishly in love with my best friend. Oh, and she’s getting married.

So, in my eternal stupidity, I hooked up with a woman at our annual masquerade ball. You know what they say—the best way to get over a woman is to get under another.

Who is this woman, you ask? Calliope Templeton. She's unlike any other I’ve ever met. And believe me, as the guitarist for Hammered—only the biggest selling rock band out there right now—I’ve met quite a few.

Now I have to figure out how to convince her we’re more than just a one-night stand. She’s supposed to be my happily ever after.

And if necessary, I'm willing to show her just how resourceful one determined Irishman can be...

★-★-★-★-★-★

Manipulated is book 3 in the Hammered rockstar series. Our other rockstar series are also set in the Oblivion world.

★ Series Reading Order ★

- Lost in Oblivion - Seduced (prequel) Rocked Rattled Twisted Untwisted Destroyed Consumed Committed Shattered Fused Owned Merry Oblivion Paradise in Oblivion	- Winchester Falls Trilogy - Tangled Torn Tied	- Found in Oblivion - Bedded Bliss Triple Trouble Dirty Duet Lost Lyric Perfect Pitch Raw Rhythm Finding Forever	- Hammered - Manaconda Manhandled Manipulated Maneuvered	- Rock Revenge Trilogy - Rock Revenge Rock Reclaimed Rock Redemption	- Brooklyn Dawn - Play Dirty Play Fast Play Mine

** This site is a participant in various affiliate advertising programs through Amazon.com, Rakuten Marketing, Commission Junction, IndieBound, Smashwords, Book Depository, and more that are designed to provide a means for Jess to earn minimal advertising fees by showcasing the areas you can purchase the corresponding products that Jess discusses within her blog posts. Basically Jess earns from qualifying purchases.
More specifically Jess partners those websites' programs and you should be aware that they may collect personal information when you interact with their sites. The collection and use of this information is subject to their own privacy policies.
You can check out Rakuten Marketing's privacy policy here: https://rakutenmarketing.com/legal-notices/services-privacy-policy/ **
My Book Review : 3.5 out of 5 stars! Callie (Calliope) has been trying to bring her life together ever since her divorce about a year ago, now she lands a job that could bring her photography career into the big time. Yet will Owen, the sexy bassist from the band she’s working with, add to her newfound happiness or brake everything she has worked so hard to accomplish?

I had never read this series before, but the authors have it set into their Oblivion Series’ world, and I had read a book or two from that “world” already, so I had a feeling I would enjoy this one. And I am happy to say I did enjoy it.

Blog Tour - Made the Grade: No Flowers Required by Cari Quinn | Interview, Review, & Giveaway

Today I'm turning my blog over to Cari Quinn, who I interviewed about her latest novel "No Flowers Required," which is the 2nd book in her Love Required Series!!

ALSO -- Be sure to check out Rafflecopter at the bottom of this post to be able to sign up for this blog stop's GIVEAWAY!! [Blog Tour will run from August 24 - 29, 2012]

---

My Q&A with Cari Quinn :

Jess : Everyone please help me welcome Cari!!

Cari : Thanks so much for having me here today! :)

Jess : Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

Cari : Sure! I’m a full time writer with an addiction to pumpkin spice lattes, watching men’s college basketball, and I absolutely love anything Halloween-related. I’m heading to Salem, Mass this weekend with my bestie, so that kind of proves my love of things that go bump in the night!

Jess : Who or what was your inspiration to begin writing?

Cari : I’m not really sure. I just always loved disappearing into books, first others then eventually my own. I was in fourth grade when I started trying to write a book with a friend. It took me until I was 31 to finish a book, but I finally got there!

Jess : Please describe your hero, from "No Flowers Required," in one to two sentences.

Cari : Dillon’s a fiercely devoted, loyal, hardworking guy who sometimes does the wrong things for the right reasons. Oh, and he’s good with his hands. ;)

Jess : Which of your characters would you most & least like to invite to dinner, from which book and why?

Cari : Oooh, great question! I’d most love to invite Cory from the upcoming "No Romance Required" to dinner (you meet him in "No Flowers Required") because there’s so much more to him than meets the eye and least like to invite Ty from "Ex Appeal" because he’s such a clueless male about being honest about his feelings with his woman!

Jess : Is there one particular scene in "No Flowers Required" that you’re dying for readers to read? Can you tell us anything about it?

Cari : Hmm, tough one! I’d have to say the rooftop in the rain scene. Think rooftop garden, driving rain, and a one-hour-stand that becomes so much more...

Jess : Which usually comes first for you, the character(s) story or the idea for the novel?

Cari : Usually the premise comes for me before the characters. Though usually the characters end up twisting my original premise all around until I don’t even recognize it anymore!

Jess : If "No Flowers Required" were to be made into a film, who do you see playing the main characters and why?

Cari : I’d have to say Andrew Stetson for Dillon and Kate Beckinsale for Alexa. Andrew’s got a sort of rough and tumble look about him that’s perfect for Dillon and Kate’s beautiful and strong, the best of both worlds!


Jess : In regards to "No Flowers Required," if you could write it all over again, would you change anything about it?

Cari : Wow, such great questions! I can’t think of anything right now, but I guarantee if I were to write it again things would change—I’m the ultimate tweaker and fiddler and nothing’s up to my standards!

Jess : How many books have you written? Which is your favorite and why?

Cari : I’ve released seventeen books so far, plus a cowboy anthology from various authors and a non-fiction book about writing sex scenes that included an essay of mine. I have more coming out later this year. I’m going to steal Nora Roberts’ answer and say my favorite is whatever one I’m working on, which is so true!

Jess : Do you have any other projects in the works? If so, can you share a little of your current work with us?

Cari : Right now I’m writing Cory’s book, "No Romance Required," and it’s been a blast so far! Let’s just say Cory and Vicky definitely shoot off sparks—and if you’ve read "No Flowers Required," you got a glimpse of that—and heat up the cold winter nights!

Jess : Do you prefer ebooks, paperbacks or hardcover? Any specific reason why?

Cari : Ebooks all the way! I was slow to convert but I don’t read paper books anymore. I’m so addicted to my Kindle stuffed with samples and the million books I’m reading at once that I can’t imagine going back to carrying around just one paperback at a time.

Jess : If someone wrote a biography about you, what do you think the title should be?

Cari : Love this! Hmm, I’ll go with: "Better With Age." Because I am! Though I could do without the pesky gray hair that goes with it...

Jess : Have you ever gone out in public with your shirt on backwards, or your slippers on, and when realizing it, just said screw it?

Cari : LOL, no, I haven’t, but I have gone outside with my shirt on inside out...and not realized til I got home. This is why I drink a lot of coffee to be alert in the morning!

Jess : List 3 books you just recently read and would recommend?

Cari : "Ashes and Wine" — Taryn Elliott

"My Life Next Door" — Huntley Fitzpatrick

"Trust In Me" — Skye Warren

Thanks for such a fun interview! :)

Jess : YOU'RE WELCOME!! Thanks for being here!!

---

About the Author :

USA Today bestselling author Cari Quinn saves the world one Photoshop file at a time in her job as a graphic designer. At night, she writes sexy romance, drinks a lot of coffee, and plays her music way too loud. When she’s not scribbling furiously, she’s watching men’s college basketball, reading excellent books, and causing trouble. Sometimes simultaneously.

---

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 291 KB | Expected Release Date: August 2012 | Publisher: Entangled Publishing : Brazen | Obtained: Entangled Publishing

"No Flowers Required" [Love Required Series, Book 2] by Cari Quinn

My Book Summary : The past year has been tough on Alexa (Lex); first, her brother fell in love with her best friend making her feel a bit left out, second her boss dies and leaves her the flower business she owned. Thankfully, she loved the business and wants it to succeed. However, she never knew how bad the businesses finances were doing until she became the owner of it. And ... WOW they are bad! Nothing she has done seems to help, that is until she sells her house and moves into a "crappy" apartment within the same building as her shop. The same day she moves in, she meets Dillon, who she's instantly attracted too, and believes is the handyman of the building because she see him fixing up an apartment down the hall from her.

However, Dillon is a whole lot more than a handyman, he actually owns the building, a few others, and will soon be the owner of Value Hardware (he's parents store that he and his older brother will soon take over that is like a Lowe's). Nevertheless, Lex stirs feelings in Dillon that he hasn't had in a long while so he decides, at first, to play the part of the handyman to see where things will go between him and Lex. That is until he learns of Lex's strong hatred of Value Hardware he decides to play the part a little longer. Yet the longer he pretends to be someone he isn't completely the harder he finds it is tell Lex the truth. But when the truth finally comes out, will Alexa understand and be able to forgive him or will their relationship be blown to bits?

My Book Review : 3 out of 5 stars! Find how you can be true to yourself while falling in love. Dillon and Alexa are a combustible duo that could not be more perfect for each other. I enjoyed their trials and tribulations while they stumbled through saving Alexa's flower shop and how they dealt with their growing relationship!!

My only problem was the slowish pace that the book sets in the beginning. Nevertheless, reading their hot sex sessions and their flirtatious ways around each other kept me hooked to this novel.

I recommend this novel and series to anyone who enjoys contemporary romances!

Author's Novel Extras : Six Sentence Sunday, No Flowers Required style pt 1 | Six Sentence Sunday, No Flowers Required style pt 2

Book Teaser(s) :

Or at least that’s what he assumed until she turned and dangled the handle of his watering can from her fingertip. A sexy smile ghosted around her mouth, scarcely visible in the moonlight. “Aww, a daisy. Missing this?”
“It’s a watering can,” he muttered, snatching it out of her hand.
“I know. I’ve used them before. You know, a lot of men might be intimidated by using such a...cute item.” Another sexy smile. Damn if he didn’t find them delicious.
“If I didn’t prove my manliness a few minutes ago, then screw the daisy.”
She laughed and the sound smoothed away most of his ire. ~ within Chapter 3

The next night she returned home to a fully painted bathroom, a half-moon daisy rug in front of the sink—an exact match to the watering can she’d laughed at him for toting around—and a new mason jar of flowers on the windowsill. She blushed as she took in the bluish-purple blossoms. Forget-me-nots. Too bad he didn’t realize how truly fitting they were.
Best of all, there was another note. Grinning, she snatched it up.
I’m glad you liked the paint. You don’t have to keep the rug I bought, but when I saw that daisy at the thrift shop today, it reminded me of you. Everything seems to lately. D. ~ within Chapter 5

For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Cari, then please check out her website.

---

My Giveaway!! :

• An ARC e-book copy of "No Flowers Required" Book 2 to one randomly drawn person from Rafflecopter
• An kindle copy of "No Dress Required" Book 1 to two randomly drawn person from Rafflecopter

The Fine Print -- To Enter :

1. This contest ends on October 1st 2012.
2. This contest is International!!
3. You must be 18 years-old or older!!
4. It's the author/publisher's responsibility to ensure that the winner gets "No Flowers Required," not mine.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

ALSO -- Be sure to follow the tour around the other blog sites!

---

Find Cari Quinn :

• Cari Quinn - Website/Blog
• Twitter
• Facebook
• Facebook Page
• Goodreads

The Books I'm Thankful For (so far) in 2017

In tradition (well mine at least) of today being Thanksgiving Day (the USA version of it at least), here is a list of ALL the books I've read thus far this year that I've given my highest ratings to (5 out of 5 stars), which means I'm VERY Thankful for finding/reading them! Be forewarned though ... I moved a few months back and that has killed my reviewing schedule SO ONLY FOUR (4) of these books below have complete write-ups and reviews for them. The other novels I will HOPEFULLY have their COMPLETE book reviews posted soon (my goal is to get them in before the New Year .. *hahaa* wish me luck)! But anyways, here you go they are all listed in the order of when I read them this year:

** This site is a participant in various affiliate advertising programs through Amazon.com, Rakuten Marketing, Commission Junction, IndieBound, Smashwords, Book Depository, and more that are designed to provide a means for Jess to earn minimal advertising fees by showcasing the areas you can purchase the corresponding products that Jess discusses within her blog posts.
All of these affiliate links are obvious as to which ones they are. **

1. Amazon (Kindle) USD : Bedded Bliss (Book 1)

   "Bedded Bliss" [Found in Oblivion Series, Book 1] by Cari Quinn & Taryn Elliott: 5 out of 5 stars!! Two acquaintances meet up unexpectedly in Vegas. After a night of partying and heavy flirtation they wake up to find they’re married yet have no memory of doing so. Both are from different upbringings and completely different worlds, but because of how he was raised Michael doesn’t want to get divorced and plans on assisting Chloe any way he can so their marriage will work. Will all of Michael’s plans fall into place, making it so Chloe, her son, and Michael can actually be a good family together? Or will others try to keep them apart for good?
   
   This is the first really sweet rockstar romance novel that I’ve read in a while, and I am SOOO HAPPY that I found it! [Read more of Jess' Review and THREE TEASERS for this novel HERE]

2. Amazon (Kindle) USD : The Governess Was Wanton (Book 2)

   "The Governess Was Wanton" [The Governess Series, Book 2] by Julia Kelly: 5 out of 5 stars!!! When Mary starts her latest job as the governess to the Earl of Asten's only daughter, she finds her world tilted of its axis by the Earl (Eric) himself. He's handsome, smart, and kind with a roguish streak the only seems to come out around her. They try to maintain distance between them but the night of the masquerade ball the distance becomes obsolete but only Mary knows the truth. Will Mary & Eric be able to have more than stolen moments together or will their ranks keep them separated forever?
   
   This novel enamored me from the very beginning!! The illicit situation that brews between Mary & Eric is sweet and all consuming; it had me wanting their story to be never-ending. [Read more of Jess' Review and THREE TEASERS for this novel HERE]

3. Amazon (Kindle) USD : Shadow of a Girl

   "Shadow of a Girl" by Shannon Greenland: 5 out of 5 stars!!!! Eve (Nesiah) has spent her life as a shadow of her true self in hopes of staving off the emotional and physical abuse she dealt with daily from her "father." Therefore, after confessing to her longtime friend about the abuse she received they device a plan to get Eve to escape. Once Eve ran away, she hides behind a false identity as a roadie and ends up meeting West (a famous lead singer). Over time, West breaks through Eve's defenses and their friendship turns into something more ... but soon Eve's past and the lies she's kept hidden come to light and might breakup the best things she's ever known. Will it all be too late to save her?
   
   This intense YA rockstar romance had me riveted from the very beginning. I loved the innocent passion Eve shares with West and how empowered Eve becomes throughout this whole novel. [Read more of Jess' Review and TWO TEASERS for this novel HERE]

4. Amazon (Kindle) USD : Royally Roma (Book 1)

   "Royally Roma" [The Royals Series, Book 1] by Teri Wilson: 5 out of 5 stars!! After feeling beaten down by his own royal responsibilities, Niccolo (Nico/Mano) the heir to the Lazaretto throne decides on escaping his gilded cage by pretending to be someone else when he meets Julia. Julia is an American tour guide living in Rome, who is running from her own notorious past and is in the midst of pulling her life together when she meets Niccolo. Their attraction is instantaneous and is blooming into something more by the minute. Yet when Niccolo’s “quick getaway” turns into something a whole lot more and into a bigger fiasco then he originally planned, will he still be able to go back to his “real” life after all is said and done; or will he be able to change his life for the better with the help of Julia by his side?
   
   Okay truth time … this novel is said to be a modern retelling of the classic Audrey Hepburn film ‘Roman Holiday,’ and though I have heard of it I have never watched it so I really didn’t know what it was about. Yet I can definitely say I was not disappointed in the least as I was hooked by Chapter 2. [Read more of Jess' Review and TWO TEASERS for this novel HERE]

5. Amazon (Kindle) USD : Undeniable (Book 3)

   "Undeniable" [The Always Series, Book 3] by Cherie M. Hudson: 5 out of 5 stars! Yes, Caden loves his cousin like a brother and would do anything he can for his cousin’s family (and has on more than one occasion) but that isn’t the real/only reason he travels whenever he could to San Diego, California during his time off from his university in Australia. The real reason is because of his cousin’s sarcastic, snarky, big hearted sister-in-law Chase (Chastity). He has been in love with her from just about the beginning of their “relationship” now he just has to prove it to her any way he can. But while Chase tries to keep him at bay others conspire against them, will Caden’s actions be enough to win her heart for good or will he fumble up any chance they have of being together?
   
   I really liked this contemporary new adult romance that is written in a diary style kind of way. It was easy to follow along (as this is the first novel from its Always Series that I’ve read) and I enjoyed how it gave the reader a way of viewing/learning about Caden and Chase’s thoughts on WHY they did the things they did throughout the novel. All in all... [Read more of Jess' Review and TWO TEASERS for this novel HERE]

6. Amazon (Kindle) USD : Sweet Southern Trouble (Book 4)

   "Sweet Southern Trouble" [Harmony Homecomings Series, Book 4] by Michele Summers: 5 out of 5 stars!! Under the pretense of getting Nick (Nicholas), the head coach of the North Carolina Cherokees, to allow her access to his team for her school's planned bachelor auction Marabelle (Tinker Bell/Mary-bell/Thumbelina) agrees to his ruse of being Nick's fiancee. However, every time Nick and Marabelle are together, sparks fly and they quickly find there relationship progressing rapidly and into something VERY real. That is if Marabelle can get over her own securities, Nick can get over his past, and if some one from Nick's recent "past" doesn't get in the way....
   
   Wow!! Out of the three novels I've read in Ms. Summers' Harmony Homecomings Series (Book 2, 3, & 4) THIS one is beyond far my favorite!!! Especially since... [Read more of Jess' Review and TWO TEASERS for this novel HERE]

7. Amazon (Kindle) USD : Beyond the Stars

   "Beyond the Stars" by Stacy Wise: 5 out of 5 stars!! Jess’ (Jessica) dream has always been to live in France and speak fluent French. However, that all changes after she has to give up her year abroad because of getting mono. So, if she wants to stay in LA she is stuck helping out her Aunt by becoming a personal assistant for Jack, a popular leading actor. They don’t have a good beginning at all but overtime they let each other into their worlds and overtime they seem to fall for one another. But could it all be too good to be true or are they actually “soul mates”....
   
   This passionate sweet romance wins over its readers with endearing characters that make you want to either be them OR want them to be your friend! I fell in love with Jack right alongside Jess. Finding out... [Read more of Jess' Review and THREE TEASERS for this novel HERE]

8. Amazon (Kindle) USD : Marked for Them (Book 1)

   "Marked for Them" [Witches of Rose Lake Series, Book 1] by Lia Davis: 5 out of 5 stars! All of Reese’s life she has been living in seclusion and on the run. She is half-demon after all. Than with her father trying to kill her staying hidden is necessary. But when a ghost finds her and brings her to men who might be able to help protect her, she finds the courage to take it upon herself to make a new future for them all. Now they just have to be sure to defeat their common enemy (her father) before he rips their lives apart even more…
   
   Can I just say now what I’ve been thinking since I finished this novel … which is, “NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!” Why Ms. Davis, did you do this to me?! I am on Ms. Davis’ newsletter list and when she was pimping this novel (Marked For Them) it left me REALLY intrigued. Therefore... [Read more of Jess' Review and a TEASER for this novel HERE]

9. Amazon (Kindle) USD : Lover Eternal (Book 2)

   "Lover Eternal" [Black Dagger Brotherhood Series, Book 2] by J. R. Ward: 5 out of 5 stars! Continuing right where “Dark Lover” ended, we now follow Rhage. Watch as Rhage deals with fighting the lessers, protecting the civilians and those he cares for from the Society and himself, all while finding his mate. Yet will he be able to handle the repercussions that come with finding the woman who was meant for him?
   
   Like before ... I LOVE this novel. Yet, in truth, it’s in a whole new way. I say that because... [Read more of Jess' Review and a TEASER for this novel HERE]

   
   
   
   

10. Amazon (Kindle) USD : Blocked (Book 1)

    "Blocked" [Blocked Series, Book 1] by Jennifer Lane: 5 out of 5 stars!! Dane & Lucia (Luz) are in a unique situation. Dane’s mother and Lucia’s father are BOTH Presidential Candidates to become the next President of the United States. And because of a scandal at Lucia’s original college they are now attending the same college on volleyball scholarships. This forced proximity has Pros and Cons, which they end up dealing with along the way, but once Lucia’s true feelings come out for Dane both of their worlds change. But will it be a better change for everyone? That still remains to be seen …
    
    OMG!!! This novel held me RIVETED from the very beginning. I could not get enough of Lucia and Dane’s passion throughout this novel. They were... [Read more of Jess' Review and TWO TEASERS for this novel HERE]

    
    

11. Amazon (Kindle) USD : A New Leash on Love (Book 1)

    "A New Leash on Love" [Rescue Me Series, Book 1] by Debbie Burns: 5 out of 5 stars!! A man (Craig) who is still coming to terms with the devastating loss that happened in his life years ago takes his daughter’s puppy to a local animal shelter at the wishes of said daughter and his ex-wife. From that moment on his life becomes unexpectedly intertwined with Megan, the Director of the animal shelter. Yet, especially with them both being so different, are they ready to try making something of their budding relationship or will fate take the choice out of their hands?
    
    Enchanting from the start with Craig and Megan’s sparking chemistry and intense banter. Though I think what might have really hooked me was Sledge within the first chapter, I love him! All together... [Read more of Jess' Review and TWO TEASERS for this novel HERE]

12. Amazon (Kindle) USD : P.S. I Like You

    "P.S. I Like You" by Kasie West: 5 out of 5 stars!! Oh my goodness, you guys!! This novel!!! I don’t know where to begin with this review. *happy sigh* So here we go ...
    
    Lily is a shy girl who covers that with false confidence. Yet because of how she portrays herself to everyone else, it means she only has one friend. Her best friend Isabel. But even though she has a “hipster” eclectic sole and style, her goal in life is to be a song writer. And she is still on the brink of being great, IF she can get a “muse” to work for her. So, one day she was “working” on her lyrics during Chemistry class and using the desk as her paper. The following day she finds a response on her desk that someone else wrote. And so begins her exchanges with her secret pen pal. Who could it be? As time goes by she decides to find out who her pen pal actually is but will she be happy once she finally knows ...
    
    I had originally heard about this book from Julie @ Pages and Pens and I am so glad I did! I agree when Julie said... [Read more of Jess' Review, a Covered Up Spoiler Section and TEASER for this novel HERE]

13. Amazon (Kindle) USD : A Hummingbird Christmas (Book 1)

    "A Hummingbird Christmas" [Glacier Creek Series, Book 1] by Karen Foley: 5 out of 5 stars!! Joy's Christmas wish is to give her five-year-old daughter the best holiday ever. So, in hopes of a winter wonderland Christmas they head to her in-laws house in Montana where they find that everyone seems to be needing a bit of holiday magic....
    
    In truth, I was on the fence about this novel at its beginning, but I am sooo happy that I stuck with it! It is a heartwarming tale about overcoming the loss of a loved one and finally moving on. It was especially nice that... [Read more of Jess' Review and a TEASER for this novel HERE]

I hope you'll find a novel or more that you'd like to read as much as I did!! As usual it's an eclectic mix of Erotic, Paranormal, Historical, Contemporary, and Young Adult ROMANCES! =0)

Anyway ....

As always I wish you a FUN, DELICIOUS, and ENJOYABLE Thanksgiving! Have a wonderful day and some exciting days ahead! Again please STAY TUNED for my upcoming reviews (including the ones above I've listed that the reviews aren't posted yet I have about FIFTY-ish book reviews coming)!! Thank you for visiting and if you follow any of my social accounts THANK YOU for doing that too! If you have time please share this book list around. =0)

Best regards, Jess

🦃 HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE!! 🦃
Check out my previous Thankful Book Lists :

Top 5 Books I'm Thankful For (so far) in 2011	The Books I'm Thankful For (so far) in 2012	The Books I'm Thankful For (so far) in 2013
The Books I'm Thankful For (so far) in 2014	The Books I'm Thankful For (so far) in 2015	The Books I'm Thankful For (so far) in 2016

---

Related Posts :

The Books I'm Thankful For (so far) in 2016	The Books I'm Thankful For (so far) in 2018	My 2017 Best Book Couples List	A HUGE Thank You to My Followers & A Birthday Party Giveaway!!

Feasted On: Kennedy High Series, Book 2

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Paperback - Pages: 201; Kindle Edition - File Size: 4594 KB | Expected Release Date: November 17, 2014 | Publisher: Elliott Books | Obtained: edelweiss

"The Evolution of Emily" [Kennedy High Series, Book 2] by Kate Scott

Author's Book Description : Emily Charles knows how to run away. Away from her overprotective, agoraphobic mother. Away from her biology-obsessed, autistic sister. Away from her quiet sheltered claustrophobic homeschooled life. When Emily's escape plan involves starting her junior year at Kennedy High School, she realizes she's no longer running away. Now she's running towards. Towards her quiet thoughtful cross-country teammate, August. Towards her zany enthusiastic lab partner, Miles. Towards friendship, love, independence, and life.

Thanks to her sister's special interest in biology, Emily knows all about the birds and the bees. Boys are a lot more confusing!

Readers who enjoyed "Counting to D" will won't want to miss Scott's second novel, also set at Kennedy High School.

My Book Review : 4 out of 5 stars! Emily's life has been within the confines of her home. With a mother who fears the outside world and a younger sister with her own special needs, Emily is very lonely. Her only reprieve from her everyday life is running. During one of her running excursions, she runs by the local high school and decides to get paperwork to enroll. After convincing her father that going to high school is what she needs, she begins her new school year that fall. Now Emily is faced with her greatest dream and biggest fear ... socialization. Will it all turn out the way she hopes? Can her family come to terms with the life changes she's throwing their way? And is the cute guy on the cross-country team everything she believes he is?

This was a uniquely intense YA romance that makes the readers think, helps them learn, and gets them addicted to its inspiring characters. I was truly surprised by the direction this novel played out but I couldn't have been happier with its outcome! Emily is a compelling girl who is brave enough to take control of her life and fight for what she wants even if it's hard fighting against a family who doesn't want to change like she does. Then to throw in her new relationship with August (a sweet cross-country star) and her budding friendships with Sam & Miles, just topped off my liking of this novel. Plus, it helped that the chemistry between August and herself is off the charts. While at times August seems to good-to-be-true, he helps Emily more than ever to navigate her new world. August definitely charmed me.

I HIGHLY recommend this novel to those who are looking for a dynamic YA romance!

Purchase This Book and/or The Other Books From It's Series Here : IndieBound (Paperback) : Counting to D (Book 1) | IndieBound (Paperback) : The Evolution of Emily (Book 2) | Kobo (e-Book) : Counting to D (Book 1) | Alibris (Paperback) : Counting to D (Book 1) | Alibris (Paperback) : The Evolution of Emily (Book 2)


Author's Novel Extras : Bootcamp Check-In | Buckle Up for Writing | The Evolution of Kate | The Evolution of Emily - Cover Reveal

The Evolution of Emily is now available. Do you have your copy yet?
Posted by Kate Scott on Wednesday, November 19, 2014

Author's Series Extras : The Dyslexic Brain | Love List | Opening Sentences | 2014 Is Already Looking Good | Spring Writing Boot Camp | Happy New Year

Today is "support teen literature day", what have you done to celebrate? #RockTheDrop
Posted by Kate Scott on Friday, April 17, 2015

Book Teaser(s) :

My dad had always been my ally, when I really needed him. He insisted my mom let me leave the house to go running every day. He set the boundaries, allowing Olivia and me to spend as much time as we wanted outside on the porch. He made sure we were safe every day, even though he left us at home with a crazy person---a crazy person he loved enough to overlook her insanity. ~ within Chapter 2

THE EVOLUTION OF EMILY by Kate Scott -- Read my review here:...
Posted by From Me to You - Video, Photography, & Book Reviews on Monday, June 1, 2015

"Bravery isn't the same as fearlessness. Yes, you're afraid, but you don't let that fear paralyze you. Emily, you forced two very overprotective parents to let you go to public school, participate in extracurricular activities, and start dating. I'm pretty sure you're a superhero."
I looked up at him. "Do you really think that?"
"Absolutely." ~ within Chapter 25

For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Kate, then please check out her website.

Blog Tour - Broken Love by Kelly Elliott | Special Announcement / Spreading the Word

Today I'm turning my blog over to Kelly Elliott author of "Broken Love," which happens to be the FOURTH BOOK in her Broken Series!!

When Kelly Elliott started to write "Broken Love" she decided what better way to write this fan wanted book than to let readers help write it!!

SO -- Every 3-4 weeks Kelly will write a few chapters and at the end there will be a few questions that the readers can vote on to decide which direction this novella will go.

---

"Broken Love"
[Broken Series, Book 4] by Kelly Elliott
Author's Book Description :

Ava is left with a broken heart that she fears she will never recover from. Will a one night change Ava's future, or cause her to keep hanging onto the past?

Synopsis coming soon.

You Pick The STORY!!! :

Prologue – Ava :

Nothing about my relationship with Johnny was normal. We met and fell in love immediately. He asked me to marry him on our two-month anniversary and I said yes. My mother cried, and my father lectured me for three hours straight. He kept repeating, “This isn’t normal, Ava.”

What was normal anyway?

According to my father, knowing someone at least six months before agreeing to marry him or her was normal. I, of course, disagreed and let my whirlwind relationship with Johnny totally blind me of what I couldn’t see before my very eyes.

As I stood in front of four different cakes, I couldn’t help but glance around the bakery. Johnny and I were having a small wedding, held at his parent’s country club in Austin. His mother had insisted we not elope, which was exactly what we had both wanted to do.

Turning my attention to Johnny, I watched as he talked to the young redhead who had been helping us.

“So, have you narrowed it down?” she asked as she smiled brightly at Johnny and barely acknowledged I was there.

With a shrug of his shoulder, Johnny turned to me and said, “Ava, could I possibly talk to you outside for a moment?”

I gave Johnny a slight smile as I nodded my head. “Of course.”

Johnny placed his hand on my lower back and guided me out of the bakery. I frowned as I thought how his hand on my lower back should cause my stomach to dip. At least that is how it is for the girls in the romance books I read. The touch of his hand on my body should ignite my body in flames.

Ha! I’d never experienced those feelings before in my entire life. There was a reason it was called fiction.

As we stepped out of the bakery, I flashed him a smile as I decided maybe what we needed was some afternoon delight. Placing my hand on his chest, I licked my lips and purred, “I know something else I’d rather be tasting.”

Johnny looked away as he stared down the street with an empty look in his eyes. “Ava, I need to talk to you.”

My smile faded as I instantly gnawed on my lower lip. His voice was serious and I had a terrible feeling he was about to say something that was going to prove my father right.

“Okay, right now or after we pick out a cake?”

Johnny looked into my eyes and shook his head. “I need to be honest with you, Ava.”

My heart sank as I held my breath involuntarily before finding the air to speak again. “Honesty is always nice.”

As he closed his eyes I fought to hold back the tears I knew were about to fall.

“There’s someone else. I didn’t mean for it to happen, but it did. She's amazing and she makes me feel alive.”

Anger quickly raced through my body as I took a step back. “Is that so? Kind of like how I made you feel alive? Or does she make you feel alive in some other kind of way?”

Shaking his head, Johnny let out a sigh. “I’ve known Lisa almost my whole life. We ran into each other about a month ago and well, things just sparked between us.”

I placed my hand over my stomach and let out a moan. “Oh. My. God. You’ve been cheating on me?”

“No! Well, I mean it wasn’t like I did it on purpose. We fell in love, Ava and I can’t deny how I feel about her. I’ve only slept with her twice.”

My mouth dropped open as I stared at him with a blank expression. “Are you kidding me right now? Are you really that big of a dick that you would actually tell me you’ve only slept with her twice? Is that some how supposed to make me feel better you dickhead?”

Johnny glanced around as he took me by the arm and started walking toward his Audi. I hated that car. I hated him. I hated that my father had been right.

“I would have thought you would have been happy that I told you this before we got married.”

Holy freaking hell.

What did I ever see in this jerk?

Letting out a chuckle, I nodded. “No, you’re right. Better you told me before I went off and married you and God forbid had a child with you.”

“Ava, you have to admit this was all rushed. We got caught up in the whole romance side of things and lost focus on reality.”

“Reality? You think I’ve lost focus on reality? You know what’s real, Johnny?”

He lifted his hand and gently placed it on the side of my face. His thumb moved ever so slow as his eyes softened. “The pain you’re feeling right now, Ava. I know this hurts, but baby you’re going to find someone else.”

He did not. No. He. Did. Not.

“You got one part of that right. Pain. But it’s not the pain I’m feeling, it’s the pain you're about to feel you asshole.”

I lifted my knee and hit him right in the balls. I hadn’t seen a guy go down on one knee since I accidentally hit Walker in the balls with a golf club.

Johnny doubled over as he cried out in pain.

“Have a happy life with, Lisa.”

Turning on my heels, I walked away quickly. Not sure whether I should cry or scream, I pulled out my phone and dialed the one person I knew would understand.

My mother.

“Hey baby girl. How did the cake tasting go? Did you pick out a cake?”

Pressing my lips together, I tried to figure out how to deliver the blow. “No. But I did kick Johnny in the balls out on the sidewalk in front of the bakery.”

Silence.

“You remember that time I hit Walker with the golf club.”

“Yes,” my mother said slowly.

“Picture that. He went down on one knee pretty damn fast.”

“What happened?”

Rolling my eyes, I wiped the tears away. “He met someone else. Someone who made him feel alive. He had sex with her mom. The bastard cheated on me. I hate him.”

“Oh sweetheart. I’m so sorry this has happened to you. Baby, why don’t you head on home and spend a few days with us, I know your father would love to have you home.”

Laughing, I shook my head and said, “Oh I’m sure he would. The second he sees me he’s going to say I told you so.”

“He would not, Ava Moore. You’re father loves you and cares about you.”

Closing my eyes tightly, I whispered, “I know.”

Before I had a chance to open my eyes, I slammed into someone. My eyes flew open as my phone flew out of my hands and I let out a curse word.

“Shit!”

I had been stopped dead in my tracks. Dropping down, I reached for my phone and for the papers I’d just caused this man to drop. As I lifted my eyes, I sucked in a breath of air.

Beautiful hazel eyes stared into my blue. “I-I’m so sorry,” I said as I handed him a few pieces of paper.

The smile that spread across his face caused the earth to shake. Okay, not really, but it felt like it. I almost fell back onto my ass as I tried to contain the crazy feeling that zipped through my body when his hand brushed lightly across mine.

“I wasn’t looking where I was going,” I said as he helped me into a standing position.

The beautiful mystery man pinned me with his stare. My eyes roamed his perfect face. He was slightly tan, but I couldn’t tell if that was from the sun or his genes. His dark hair had that perfect messy look to it as he ran his hand through it and laughed.

“You don’t say? It’s not every day I run into a beautiful lady. I believe my day has officially been made.”

His voice sounded like an angel.

Okay, so I don’t really know what an angel would sound like, but if I could imagine it, I’d say this guy had it down. It was soft, yet masculine. Sexy, yet, compassionate.

“I’m glad,” I whispered.

He lifted his eyebrows and tiled his head as his eyes landed on my lips. “Glad you ran into me?”

My cell phone began ringing in my hand as I lifted it up to see it was my mother. Shit! I’d forgotten she was on the line. Giving him an awkward smile, I said, “No! Well, yes. No wait, I’m glad your day has been made … by me running into you.”

Oh dear God, Ava. Stop talking. Lifting my phone, I grinned and said, “It’s my mom.”

“May I at least get your name?”

My teeth sunk down into my lip as I let out a soft chuckle. “Ava.”

Mystery man’s eyes lit up as he gave me a slight nod, followed by the sexiest wink I’d ever seen. He lifted his hand to my chin and forced my eyes to his. If I hadn’t been acutely aware of every single action he made, I’d have missed his thumb move lightly over my bottom lip.

“The pleasure was most definitely mine, Ava.”

The stupid goofy grin on my face was evident as he chuckled, dropped his hand, and began walking off as I stood there in a stupor.

My phone rang again as I hit answer and whispered, “Hello?”

“Ava, are you okay? What happened?”

I shook my head to clear my thoughts as I glanced over my shoulder at my mystery man walking away from me. Getting a grip on myself, I headed toward my car. I was so thankful I had suggested meeting Johnny at the bakery.

“Sorry, Mom. I accidentally ran into someone. Hey, I think I’m going to do what you said. I need a few days of fresh country air. Besides, I can work from anywhere.”

I could practically hear my mother jumping. “Oh yah! When are you coming?”

“Today. I just need to go to my place and pack a bag.”

“Okay, sweetheart. Be careful driving, and we’ll see you in a few hours. Oh, I’ll make your favorite dinner!”

Reaching my car, I turned around again. I wasn’t sure why. Maybe I was hoping my mystery man would be standing there.

“Sounds great, Mom. I’ll let you know when I’m on my way. I love you, Mom.”

“I love you too, Ava. We’ll have you forgetting Johnny in no time.”

Slipping into the drivers seat, I started my car and said, “Johnny who?”

*** Copyright 2015 "Broken Love" Kelly Elliott***

Read the ABOVE PROLOGUE and then VOTE here ::

---

Purchase The Other Books From It's Series Here :



** Be sure to add it to your TBR pile on Goodreads! **

---

About the Author :

Kelly Elliott is married to a wonderful Texas cowboy who has a knack for making her laugh almost daily and supports her crazy ideas and dreams for some unknown reason...he claims it's because he loves her!

She’s also a mom to an amazing daughter who is constantly asking for something to eat while her fingers move like mad on her cell phone sending out what is sure to be another very important text message.

In her spare time she loves to sit in her small corner overlooking the Texas hill country and write.

One of her favorite things to do is go for hikes around her property with Gus....her chocolate lab and the other man in her life, and Rose, her golden retriever. When Kelly is not outside helping the hubby haul brush, move rocks or whatever fun chore he has in store for her that day, you’ll find her inside reading, writing or watching HGTV.

---

Find Kelly Elliott :

• Kelly Elliott - Website
• Twitter
• Facebook
• Amazon.com Author Page
• Goodreads

Idolizing In: Found in Oblivion Series, Book 1

Format: Kindle Edition | File Size: 5021 KB | Release Date: August 21, 2016 | Publisher: Rainbow Rage Publishing | Obtained: Amazon

"Bedded Bliss" [Found in Oblivion Series, Book 1] by Cari Quinn & Taryn Elliott (aka Taryn Quinn)

Author's Book Description : A hot night in Vegas is just what the rockstar ordered…until someone ends up married.

Michael Shawcross is living the dream, opening up for his idols, Oblivion, on his band Warning Sign’s first tour. Until an overzealous fan goes too far and his hard-partying ways catch up to him in the form of an ultimatum from his manager, Lila Crandall.

Clean up your image—or else.

Single mom Chloe Adams is in Vegas for a rare girls’ night out. She wasn’t ever supposed to be attracted to another rockstar. In fact, she’s in rockstar rehab, and the cure for her addiction definitely isn’t a sexy, smart-assed guitarist with wicked fingers.

She never expects to accidentally end up his wife. Or to have her new husband suddenly decide that she’s the solution to all his problems. And surprise…he’s happy to show his appreciation in a number of interesting, inventive ways.

Pretending their marriage is real might just be the hottest proposition she’s ever been given.

But what happens when a lie becomes the truth?

My Book Review : 5 out of 5 stars!! Two acquaintances meet up unexpectedly in Vegas. After a night of partying and heavy flirtation they wake up to find they’re married yet have no memory of doing so. Both are from different upbringings and completely different worlds, but because of how he was raised Michael doesn’t want to get divorced and plans on assisting Chloe any way he can so their marriage will work. Will all of Michael’s plans fall into place, making it so Chloe, her son, and Michael can actually be a good family together? Or will others try to keep them apart for good?

This is the first really sweet rockstar romance novel that I’ve read in a while, and I am SOOO HAPPY that I found it! Though I feel that Ms. Quinn & Ms. Elliott need to put together some type of “family tree” for the band (if they haven’t already) just to keep everyone’s backgrounds straight, I did not feel lost at all in this novel and it kept me entertained the whole way through, with an intriguing plotline and characters (main & secondary) to boot!

Both Michael & Chloe are intense and driven people, so much so that they have a hard time listening to one another in the beginning but it makes their banter and their story that much more fun! I loved how Michael pretty much worshipped Chloe. I mean they might not have known each other that well before Vegas but I loved how their relationship came together and how Michael was determined to make a go of them together no matter what. I was charmed! In addition, I adored how the ending played out making it so they had a situation to deal with and to triumph over instead of one of them accidently hurting the other. As I said above, it made me all so happy. *hehee*

I HIGHLY recommend this novel to those looking for an awesome rockstar contemporary romance!

Purchase This Book and/or The Other Books From It's Series Here : Amazon (Kindle) USD : Triple Trouble (Book 2) | Amazon (Kindle) USD : Dirty Duet (Book 3)

Kobo (e-Book) USD : Bedded Bliss (Book 1)	Amazon (Kindle) USD : Bedded Bliss (Book 1)	Barnes & Noble (NOOK Book) USD : Bedded Bliss (Book 1)
	Amazon (Kindle) USD : Found in Oblivion Series

My Previous Interview(s) with Cari Quinn : September 2012

My Previous Review(s) for Cari Quinn : No Flowers Required

My Previous Mention(s) of Cari Quinn's Books/Characters : Blog Tour - Made the Grade: No Flowers Required by Cari Quinn | Interview, Review, & Giveaway | Best Book Couples -- Happy Valentine's Day 2013

Authors' Novel Extras :


Authors' Series Extras :

Authors' Book Trailer(s) :

Book Teaser(s) :

Her wild hair, her seductive movements, and the longing in her eyes were his undoing.
His fucking personal Waterloo.
He hadn't planned on hooking up with anyone tonight. Definitely hadn't expected to be riding a high like this. But the buzz in his blood and the look of her ate at him, tempting him to seek her out for real after the concert ended.
Backstage pass, hell. He'd give her a bedroom pass, then tie her to his headboard right through the next morning.
She could be taken. Possibly even married. Could be a psycho. Damn, she might even be underage. She definitely had that whole schoolgirl thing going on, even with her hot clothes and gyrations. But he didn't care. Oh, he would---later. After.
Jesus, there had to be an after with her or he was going to lose his mind. ~ within Chapter 7 - titled 'Las Vegas'

Being near her was like standing in the path of the sun. As much as he just wanted to bask in her warmth, he needed more. Had to taste every part of her and remind himself that even if none of this made sense, even if it never did, he didn't have doubts when it was just the two of them.
Was it insane? Sure. Absolutely. An insanity he craved.
Maybe that was all he needed to know. ~ within Chapter 22 - titled 'Los Angeles'

Book Preview(s) :

For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Cari & Taryn, then please check out Cari's Amazon Acct & Taryn's Amazon Acct.

Feasted On: Atlantic City Hustlers Series, Novella 1

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 1502 KB | Expected Release Date: November 17, 2014 | Publisher: Entangled Publishing : Lovestruck | Obtained: Entangled Publishing

"Flirting on Ice" [Atlantic City Hustlers Series, Novella 1] by Veronica Forand & Susan Scott Shelley

Authors' Book Description : Mr. Perfect has found his kind of trouble...

Professional hockey player Zac Elliott is in top form. He’s having the best season of his career, the local fans can’t get enough of him, and he’s in the middle of the most successful contract negotiations of his career. When the sexy little spark between Zac and the team owner’s daughter blazes to life, no matter how forbidden, he can’t resist.

Philanthropist Heather Ryan can’t keep her hands off of Zac. If her father finds out, it could end Zac’s career and ruin her reputation. What they share is deeply passionate and intensely private...until the press exposes their illicit relationship.

Now the fans have viciously turned against Heather, Zac’s game is faltering, and even his team has deserted him. The only way out of the penalty box is for Zac to play hockey like life—and love—depends on it...

My Book Review : 4.5 out of 5 stars, after four years of getting to know each other through her family's hockey organization Heather finally gives into her desires to know Zac better, however once their relationship becomes known everyone tries to keep them apart. Is sticking together really worth the effort they are going to have to put into winning the approval of everyone or is being apart for the best?

This fast-paced holiday romance will win you over from the beginning! I liked how charismatic Zac is. Also, I enjoyed how he goes about winning over Heather and proving to everyone that their relationship is more than a one-time thing. It was steamy, sweet, & charming!

If this is truly a series, I am interested into seeing where the characters main & secondary will go next!

I recommend this novel to those who want to read an enchanting holiday romance!

Purchase This Book and/or The Other Books From It's Series Here : KOBO : Flirting on Ice


Authors' Novel Extras : Get Wicked With Entangled Blog Hop

Book Teaser(s) :

Post by From Me to You - Video, Photography, & Book Reviews.

Sequoia frowned, and any sign of his oldest, dearest friend evaporated. “I don’t usually give you dating advice, but in this case, it’s needed. Don’t screw around with Heather. She’s a good kid and doesn’t need the shit the fans put her through tonight.”
“It’s not like that.”
“What’s it like?”
“I like her. A lot. And I know she feels the same way. She gets me. Almost as much as you do.”
A grin emerged on Sequoia’s face and transformed the two-hundred-pound right-winger back into a friend. “What can I do to help?”
“I need your car. Can you get a ride from someone else tonight?”
“I’ll go with Mikael.” He tossed Zac the keys to his Escalade. “Have fun.” ~ within Chapter 4

For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Veronica & Susan, then please check out their websites: Veronica's website & Susan's website.