Idolizing In: Rush Me by Allison Parr

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 246 KB; Audiobook - Unabridged | Expected Release Date: April 8, 2013 | Publisher: Carina Press | Obtained: NetGalley

"Rush Me" by Allison Parr

Okay for some reason I can't seem to phrase this novel into my usual Book Summary because every time I try to start it, it just doesn't seem to flow right so .... here is the .... Author's Book Description to give you a better understanding of what this book is about!

Author's Book Description : When post-grad Rachael Hamilton accidentally gatecrashes a pro-athlete party, she ends up face-to-face with Ryan Carter, the NFL’s most beloved quarterback.

While most girls would be thrilled to meet the attractive young millionaire, Rachael would rather spend time with books than at sporting events, and she has more important things to worry about than romance. Like her parents pressuring her to leave her unpaid publishing internship for law school. Or her brother, who’s obliviously dating Rachael’s high school bully. Or that same high school’s upcoming reunion.

Still, when Ryan’s rookie teammate attaches himself to Rachael, she ends up cohosting Friday night dinners for half a dozen football players.

Over pancake brunches, charity galas, and Alexander the Great Rachael realizes all the judgments she’d made about Ryan are wrong. But how can a Midwestern Irish-Catholic jock with commitment problems and an artsy, gun-shy Jewish New Englander ever forge a partnership? Rachael must let down her barriers if she wants real love–even if that opens her up to pain that could send her back into her emotional shell forever.

My Book Review : 5 out of 5 stars!! Two supposed opposites meet unexpectedly and get into a relationship that neither of them are used to but both want desperately to keep! I could not get enough of Ryan & Rachael!! They were snarky, fun, and brought positive changes into each other’s lives while they fumbled through their feelings for each other.

This intense novel keeps you on your toes with its romantic twists and laughing with its great cast of secondary characters! Rachael, at times, is so snarky and independent that I would think, "why is she doing that," but then I'd realize that I act the same way at times too which made me sympathize with her more then I expected too. Ryan is a vulnerable man who is handsome and sweet but because of his past he has a hard time dealing with long-term relationships, which makes his relationship with Rachael on even rockier territory then it already was, with only Rachael's issues. Nevertheless, I enjoyed how Ryan & Rachael worked through all of the turmoil that came into their lives especially the "grand gesture" at the end. =0)

I recommend this novel to anyone who like "opposites attract" football player romances!

Author's Novel Extras : Here we go! | All About New Adult | Cover Reveal | Basically how my day went | Fish Out of Water | Hey-I-wrote-a-book-kthanxbai | The Carina Press authors are “Getting in Character”!

Book Teaser(s) :

“I’ve never heard Hebrew spoken before.”
My shoulders relaxed, and for the first time since we’d started this conversation, I sucked in a big breath of air. “I don’t really know it. It’s all memorization.”
He nodded. “Yeah, I did some of that for my grandparents. They’re Irish, so I learned the basics.”
I took a stab. “Irish...Catholic?”
He laughed. “Good thing you got that right.”
Oh. Yeah. The Irish Catholics and Irish Protestants had quite a lot of rough history. Time to stop saying terms simply because I’d heard them a lot. “So you speak some Gaelic?”
“No, they actually call it Irish.”
Terminology: 2; Rachael: 0. “Say something.”
He looked a little uncertain, and opened his mouth twice before anything came out. “Bhí dinnéar blasta.”
“Dinner was a blast?”
He grinned at me. “Dinner was delicious.”
I laughed. “Thanks. Though I just ordered a fixed menu from a deli.”
He tilted his head. “Did you end up paying for it yourself?”
This time, it was my mouth that opened and closed. “Uh—”
He shook his head. “Thought so. I swear, Abe has a mind like a sieve. How much was it?”
I considered. I had initially been furious at dropping two hundred dollars I didn’t have on a meal I hadn’t planned, but taking Ryan’s money felt like charity. “You know, it’s not a big deal.”
He dealt me a dry look. “Save it. We both know you’re going to tell me, and I’m going to pay you back, so there’s no use playing like we won’t.”
And there went two hundred dollars and our fragile peace. “I’m not playing. And I don’t need your money.”
He snorted and headed for the folded brown bags that the food had come in. From one, he withdrew a crumpled receipt that I probably should have claimed earlier. After glancing at it, he took a handful of twenties from his wallet and held them out to me. “Are you going to be gracious and take it, or are we going to fight about this, too?”
Poverty fought with pride, and won. “Thanks,” I muttered, and then sighed, and then tried for an apology as I folded the bills into my purse. “I was born without the gracious gene.”
His mouth quirked up. “Yeah. I kind of noticed.”
I tried to scowl at him, but his grin was too infectious and I laughed instead. ~ within Chapter 7

I was entirely blown away. I couldn’t even think of what to say. Finally, fumbling, I said, “You never asked me out to dinner.”
He glared at me. “I have you over for dinner all the time.”
“But you never asked me out.”
Exasperation flooded his voice. “Fine. Do you want to go out to dinner with me?”
“Yes.”
He stopped looking pissed off and irritated and looked confused and vulnerable. “You do?”
“Yes. I do.”
“Oh.”
“And you can buy me, flowers, too, if you want.”
His brows creased uncertainly.
“God, Ryan!” I exploded. “You drive me nuts, too, sometimes!”
He started to grin. “At least it’s mutual.” ~ within Chapter 18

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

Feasted On: Mindlink by Kat Cantrell

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 503 KB; Audiobook - Unabridged | Expected Release Date: April 1, 2013 | Publisher: Carina Press | Obtained: NetGalley

"Mindlink" by Kat Cantrell

My Book Summary : Ashley (The Redhead/Eleanor) is a movie star whose life has gone down the toilet lately and nothing seems to make it better, especially when the gossip magazines keep bringing out all of her flaws. Therefore, when she hears about aliens asking the people of Earth to send 10 specially trained scientists---so they can meet, talk, and possibly find out the meaning of a few things they aren't aware of---she makes plans to be one of them. As she just knows that if she can fool everyone into believing that, she is one of the scientists her life will fundamentally turn around for the better.

However, that was before she arrived on this other planet and learned that the aliens lied about their plans. Now, with the help of an alien she calls Sam, she'll find a way back home. If only she can stop herself from falling in love with Sam during her stay...

ZXQ-One (Sam) had plans to become the head of his research division and believed that the life he led was the one he was supposed to lead. That all changed once Ashley fell into his life, making him question everything and all of his beliefs, which leaves him being a traitor in his leader's eyes and sent to be "recycled." While waiting to be recycled Sam and Ashley really meet and accidentally mindlink. Together, and much to their both initial annoyance, they work out a plan to escape the confides of the prison and the only city/world that Sam knows to face the unknown and a future that Sam never expected could exist or plan for...

My Book Review : 4 out of 5 stars--this novel is full of deception, lies, mixed truths, and two people learning more about themselves and what they are capable of then they ever thought possible. I found the "mindlink" between Sam & Ashley to be similar, in a way, to Ms. Royce's Outsiders Series especially in regard to her novel "Love Beyond Sight" because of how the hero & heroine in Ms. Royce's novel use their link like the way Sam & Ashley do. While I also found that "Mindlink" has, a unique alien-Egyptian flare like Ms. McHugh's "Tangled Web" that reels you into its world and keeps you captivated and curious as to see where the author will take you.

I enjoyed reading and learning about how the "mindlink" worked. As well as, seeing how Sam & Ashley's relationship grew because of the link. Sam grew to turn into as "normal" a human he could become, while Ashley learned to overcome her past mistakes because of Sam's gentle touch and help. They were just like Natalie (another character in this novel) said:

“You guys are like yin and yang, finishing each other’s sentences, and staring at each other all googly-eyed. I’m so jealous it makes my teeth numb.” ~ within Chapter 17

I recommend this novel to anyone who likes sci-fi romances!

Author's Novel Extras : Mindlink is available in Audio! | MINDLINK releases today! | Release Party! Kat Cantrell’s MINDLINK | Would You Be On The List?

Book Teaser(s) :

“Do you have a name?”
He hesitated and she narrowed one eye. “Too hard of a question?” she asked. Maybe the aliens didn’t have names.
“I am ZXQ-One.”
She snorted. “That’s not a name, that’s a model number. I think I ordered something online with that exact one. Do Telhadas not have real names?”
“I am not a Telhada. The Telhada is the ruling class to whom all citizens of Alhedis pledge loyalty and obedience. Only the noble members of the Telhada have proper names.” He rubbed his forehead and blinked hard. It looked like his vision was coming back. “You ask a lot of questions.”
“You started it.” She reeled back her temper and the edge to her voice. Attacking him wasn’t going to get her anywhere. “Well, I’m not calling you ZXQ-One, like you’re a Terminator or something. My friend Sam played an alien in a movie and you look a little bit like him, so that’s what I’m going to call you.”
Sam suited him better anyway. A good, upstanding name for a solid sort of guy. Even if he was on the thinner side, he had a responsible air about him like he never forgot to file his taxes or fill up his car with gas. A guy named Sam was dependable and never late for anything. “So, Sam it is. My friend Sam’s alien movie grossed—”
“You also talk a lot.”
Okay. Of course he wasn’t impressed by who she knew. ~ within Chapter 3

He lunged into action before further analysis could give him pause.
He crashed into UBA and caught the High Priest in a tight bear hug, flung them both to the ground and rolled. Their similar weight and build might have evened the odds but One had surprise and determination to his benefit.
At the perimeter, he released UBA and kept going. His world narrowed to this one singular act. His breath caught as he rolled past the pylons and into the Badramun. Everything hinged on The Redhead’s assessment of the implant’s functions and his faith in her quick mind.
Needlelike pricks exploded behind his eyes. In that split second, he prepared to die, to join with the Ancestors in the afterlife, where he would beg for mercy in failing his charges.
One of The Redhead’s images from Earth sprang into his mind, of a human wearing a cape and a tight uniform with an “S” on the chest.
Not dead. Alive. Pent-up breath hissed out. ~ within Chapter 8

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

Disappointmentville: Girls Most Likely to... Series, Book 1

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 194 KB; Audiobook - Unabridged | Expected Release Date: March 25, 2013 | Publisher: Carina Press | Obtained: NetGalley

"Most Likely to Succeed" [Girls Most Likely to... Series, Book 1] by Kate Davies

My Book Summary : When Kelsey graduated, she was known as the Girl voted Most Likely to Succeed. However, ever since then she has been feeling that was a cursed placed on her, especially because of family obligations she was never able to go to college let alone find a way out of her hometown. Now ten years later, her 10-year high school reunion is happening the following weekend and her best friend Tess--who is putting together the reunion--talks Kelsey into going. Soon she'll get to see her high school crush and old lab partner, Nathan, again--will she be able to get over her fears of what she feels are her past failures? Or will she let past regrets get in the way of something wonderful?

My Book Review : 2.5 out of 5 stars. Two high school friends learn that their feelings for each other have only grown over the years. I liked the moral of this novel, which was that it doesn't matter about everyone else's opinion of you but what you think about yourself. Also, Kelsey and Nathan made a very fun and sweet pair.

However, I felt that this novel rushed through all the scenes that weren't about Kelsey and Nathan hooking up. It seemed like there could of been more added to this novel to make it come together a little better.

Therefore, I don't recommend this novel but if you decide on reading it then you should know it is for those who like contemporary romances.

Author's Novel Extras : Most Likely to Succeed - Excerpt | New Cover Reveal! | The Next Big Thing Blog Hop | Most Likely To Succeed - First Look! | Countdown to Most Likely To Succeed! | Blog Tour for Most Likely To Succeed | Now Available: MOST LIKELY TO SUCCEED! | MLtS Update! | What’s Your Favorite Book?

Author's Series Extras : Girls Most Likely to... Overview | Cover Reveal - Cutest Couple! | Blogging on NNN - My Reunion! | The Yearbook Curse

Book Teaser(s) :

“I want you,” she gasped. “Want you so much.”
“Feeling’s mutual,” he growled, lifting her other leg so she was wrapped completely around him. He turned and strode toward the bedroom, carrying a laughing Kelsey in his arms.
A few steps inside and his knees hit the edge of the mattress, so he tipped forward, dropping Kelsey gently onto the bed. She grinned up at him, arms raised. “Hey, gorgeous,” she said.
“I think that’s my line.” She scooted backward until her head reached the pillows. He climbed onto the bed, stretched out over her and leaned down for another kiss.
He had intended it to be soft and slow, to build the tension again. But the best of intentions disappeared as the kiss turned hot and wet and more than a little dirty. Kelsey scrabbled at his shirt, dragging the hem out of his jeans and tugging it until it bunched under his arms.
“Off, off, I want it off,” she mumbled against his lips. “Need your skin. Now.”
Hell, he could get on board with that. Sitting up until he was on his knees, straddling her body, he pulled his shirt off over his head and tossed it on the floor.
She reached up and stroked one hand down his chest. “Damn, were you really hiding this under those lab coats all those years?”
He grinned and shook his head. “Trust me, I was a late bloomer.”
“Well, you’ve blossomed quite nicely, Mr. Barrow.” ~ within Chapter 4

“But I certainly didn’t live up to my potential,” she retorted.
“You could say the same thing about me,” Bree reminded her. “Unwed teen mom, blah blah blah. Am I a failure in your eyes?”
Kelsey’s mouth dropped open. “Of course not!”
“Then cut yourself some slack.” Bree eyed her closely. “Unless Nathan’s said or done something to make you feel this way, in which case, my rusty knife has an appointment with his balls.”
Kelsey coughed, waving a hand in front of her face. “Oh, God, Bree, don’t do that! You’re killing me here.”
Bree shrugged. “I’m just saying.” ~ within Chapter 6

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

Made the Grade: Puma Nights Series, Book 3

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 331 KB | Expected Release Date: April 22, 2013 | Publisher: Carina Press | Obtained: NetGalley

"Falke's Renegade" [Puma Nights Series, Book 3] by Madison Layle & Anna Leigh Keaton (aka Leanne Karella)

My Book Summary : When Heidi gets a call asking for her assistance because of an accidental shooting of a big black jaguar, she is stunned but jumps to help immediately. However, not everything about this big beautiful cat isn’t like he seems, especially when her sister-in-law, Beth, confirms that he is actually another shifter. Even so, Heidi feels it's her duty to assist this "man," Javier, even against her family's wishes.

As the days pass and they get to know one another better they find that both of their desires for the future are beginning to change drastically, if only Javier can get over his past losses and open his heart once more...

My Book Review : 3.5 out of 5 stars, probably the only known female shifter in existence recently rescues a new male shifter that could just be her one if only he wasn't so hung up on his past...

I enjoyed this dramatic novel! Javier and Heidi pushed each other in ways I never expected, while I liked their constant need to protect each other even through Javier's personal denial of what he wanted being right in front of him. This novel seemed to have more substance and drama then "Falke's Captive," yet it keeps you updated on the dynamics of Heidi's family. I especially appreciated reading about Beth & Heidi's friendship and Beth's cute little one-liners.

I recommend this novel to anyone who is a fan of this series and/or to anyone who likes paranormal romances!

My Previous Review(s) for this Series : Book 2

My Previous Mention(s) of this Author's Books/Characters : Jess' Update :: September 20th 2011

Author's Novel Extras : Falke's Renegade - Contracted! | Falke's Renegade Update!

Author's Series Extras : Puma Nights Overview | Falke's Peak - Excerpt | Falke's Peak is #1 at Carina Press | A Peek at Our Technique | Whew! It's off! | Harlequin's Carina Press Called (Sort of...) | Checking In... | Falke's Captive - Excerpt | Falke's Captive finals in the Passionate Plume | Falke’s Peak On Sale


Book Teaser(s) :

How many brothers do you have? Javier asked while Heidi worked on removing his cast. He wanted to know how outnumbered he would be whenever the confrontation occurred—and it would. His pretty, petite vet might be naïve enough to think her brothers would let him get this close and not react, but he was under no such delusions. She was rare, and this town was their home. The men in her family would respond the same way he would if some stranger encroached on his territory.
“Six.”
Mierda.
She met his scowl with a frown. “I take it by the volume, that’s a curse. You don’t have to worry. I can handle my brothers. It’s the pesky reporter we have to worry about.”
She was wrong, but he didn’t argue the point. As soon as he was strong enough, he’d find his car and get the hell out of here. His fight was not with her family.
She continued to work on his cast. “So, where are you from?”
Nowhere.
“What brings you here to Washington?”
Nothing.
“Is your name really Javier Montero?”
He didn’t respond at all to that snarky question. ~ within Chapter 4

“He is seriously injured.” Burke pulled Heidi away from her thoughts. “Fridrik and I haven’t had time to question him, yet. But we will. For now, let him be,” he said, adding a stern look at both Kelan and Reidar. Then her dad’s mood changed. “Will dinner be ready on time?”
Heidi sighed with relief and sagged against the door. “Yes, Daddy. Of course.” She gave Burke a kiss on the cheek and headed down the hall toward the kitchen.
Kelan said to Beth, You are in trouble, woman.
Her sister-in-law could handle the boys, and her brothers would never harm their mate, but Heidi was glad she wasn’t in Beth’s shoes. Keeping secrets from brothers was one thing. Keeping them from your mates was quite another.
More than half an hour passed before Beth came into the kitchen just as Heidi was putting the pork chops under the broiler. “What do you need me to do?”
Her sister-in-law’s face glowed, and Heidi didn’t need three tries to guess what had kept her occupied. “Hope they weren’t too hard on you.”
Beth waggled her eyebrows. “Just hard enough.” Then she burst out laughing before she leaned over the counter and stage whispered, “They’re such pussycats.”
“Pussycats?”
Beth batted her eyes. “‘You mean you’re upset I didn’t tell you about Heidi’s patient? But...what does that have to do with us?’”
Heidi rolled her eyes. “And they fell for that?”
Beth just gave her a toothy grin and changed the subject. ~ within Chapter 6

For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Madison and/or Anna Leigh, then please check out their websites: Miss Layle's website & Miss Keaton's website.

Feasted On: Hunger Awakened by Dee Carney

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 464 KB; Audiobook - Unabridged | Expected Release Date: March 4, 2013 | Publisher: Carina Press | Obtained: NetGalley

"Hunger Awakened" [Vampire Hunger Series, Book 2] by Dee Carney (aka Morgan Sierra)

My Book Summary : Sebastian (Bast) knows he is a half-vampire, has dealt with the prejudices of it and has had to prove himself to the vampire community because of it for over 400 years; the problem is he doesn't know what his other half is. So, over the year he's done his best to just forget about it....

....that is until his other half finally decides to make itself known in a BIG way. Suddenly one night while he is at a club, to hook up and get fed, pain and fever crashes over him out of nowhere leaving him in the back alleyway throwing up and almost unconscious. Alice, a homeless woman who has an illness of her own, finds Bast in the alley and unwillingly tries to help him. However, once she starts helping she has a hard time walking away. One thing leads into another bringing her into a world she never realizes existed.

Together they find and feel that they'll be able to defeat whatever is happening to Bast and accept what he truly is. Yet when her own illness gets worse, will they find a way to stay together for good or will others and Alice's body keep them apart for good...

My Book Review : 4.5 out of 5 stars!! This is a compelling novel about two "people," who come from tough pasts, finding each other and help each other deal with the cards life handed them. You can't help but fall into this novel and start rooting for Alice & Bast immediately; they are just that sweet of couple! Plus, I love reading about the genealogy research/knowledge in the book because I'm a genealogy buff myself.

Then as a cherry on top, for those who have read "Hunger Aroused" (since I didn't), it gives you an update on what Jasmine & Corin are doing while not having a confusing plot line enough so it can be considered as a standalone novel! Nevertheless, the epilogue leaves you with plenty of things to get you excited for the next novel while hoping Alice, Bast, Jasmine, & Corin will be in it too!

I recommend this novel/series to anyone who likes paranormal romances!

Author's Novel Extras : Hunger Awakened Excerpt | Six Sentence Sunday | Six Sentence Sunday | Six Sentence Sunday | Six Sentence Sunday | Six Sentence Sunday | Six Sentence Sunday | Six Sentence Sunday | Six Sentence Sunday | Six Sentence Sunday | Six Sentence Sunday | Six Sentence Sunday | Six Sentence Sunday | Six Sentence Sunday | Six Sentence Sunday | Six Sentence Sunday | Six Sentence Sunday | Six Sentence Sunday | Six Sentence Sunday | Six Sentence Sunday | Six Sentence Sunday | Six Sentence Sunday | Six Sentence Sunday | Six Sentence Sunday | Six Sentence Sunday | Six Sentence Sunday | Six Sentence Sunday | Six Sentence Sunday | Six Sentence Sunday | Wednesday’s Words: Feeling Accomplished | Six Sentence Sunday | Six Sentence Sunday | Six Sentence Sunday | Six Sentence Sunday | Six Sentence Sunday | Two New Covers

Author's Series Extras : Hunger Aroused Excerpt & Romance Trading Card | Hunger Revealed - FREE READ | Discoveries | Six Sentence Sunday | Six Sentence Sunday | What I’m doing | I’m going to audio, baby! | Trick or Treat? | Six Sentence Sunday | Hunger Aroused FTW | A saying for every occasion | Tooting my own horn | Six Sentence Sunday | More about | Six Sentence Sunday | Winter Reviews | A Hero’s Hop

Book Teaser(s) :

She leaned in closer to the screen, tracing a finger along one of the lines. “You made a mistake here. This person’s on two different branches, unless...” Alice started muttering to herself. “No, not the same person. A mistake. I think if you...yeah. She needs to be on this line, not that one.”
He’d worked with painstaking precision on the chart. “Show me.”
“Here.” She made a face. “And here.”
“Son of a bitch,” he said with a low growl. “I don’t know which one is correct. Fuck. I’ll have to—”
“You could hire me to do it.”
“What?”
Her words picked up speed, her enthusiasm growing. “Let me do this for you. Like a personal assistant or something. My mother worked on these in her spare time, and I know how to do the research. Let me—”
“No.”
“But Bast, it’s a win-win. For room and board. You’ve got this huge house—”
“No, I’m sorry. I won’t let you work on this.”
“But why not?”
He shook his head again, regret washing over him that he couldn’t share even this tiny snippet of his life with someone. Especially not a human. “Not this.” ~ within Chapter 5

He focused. Nodded in response to her original question. “At the end, just as I was finishing, I felt something.” He tried to bring back the sensation. The rush. “Power.”
A pause. “Yeah, it’s called coming.”
Bast snorted out a laugh. “As I was coming, smart ass.” He let the mirth settle before continuing. ~ within Chapter 16

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

Idolizing In: Tales of the Underlight Series, Book 2

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 327 KB; Audiobook - Unabridged | Expected Release Date: February 11, 2013 | Publisher: Carina Press | Obtained: NetGalley

"How Beauty Saved the Beast" [Tales of the Underlight Series, Book 2] by Jax Garren (aka Jennifer Hinson)

My Book Summary : Now that "Beauty" has met the "Beast," it is time to save him...

Ever since Jolie was recruited to join The Underlight she has been trying to prove it to them that it was the right decision. To prove that, and to stay on top of her game, Wesley (Hauk) has been helping her in intense training sessions. From the sessions and because of how they met their personal relationship & friendship has grown immensely stronger, which makes them both start to consider about taking it to the next level...

If only Jolie & Hauk can stop what the Order of Ananke has planned for them, as well as not letting their insecurities and their ex's stand in their way...

My Book Review : 5 out of 5 stars!! Now that "Beauty" has met the "Beast," it is time to save him! This is one vivacious novel that I did not want to put down! Jolie & Hauk are so similar it was like they were made for each other! I could not get enough of these two and their cast of colorful friends!

Plus, if you were like me and ended up skipping (aka not reading) "How Beauty Met the Beast," book 1 in this series, than never fear! Since if you did read it you would probably like the series more, yet you don't need too read it because of how well "How Beauty Saved the Beast" flows with it's plot and makes sure that you understand the back story enough that you won't be lost at all!

In addition, I especially LOVED how this novel wraps up at the end!! Now I am VERY excited to see what "How Beauty Loved the Beast," book 3 in this series, will bring when it comes out in May 2013!

I recommend this novel and series to anyone looking to read a romance that takes a unique twist on a fairy tale!

- On a side note -
I absolutely HATED Hauk's ex!! I am really hoping that she'll redeem herself in book 3. =0/

Author's Novel Extras : How Beauty Saved the Beast Excerpt | Six Sentence Sunday-12/09/12 | Six Sentence Sunday–12/30/12 | Six Sentence Sunday–1/13/13 | Blog Appearances for February... and there are a LOT of them! | War Stories from My Family | Guilty Pleasures

Author's Series Extras : Tales of the Underlight Overview | How Beauty Met the Beast–Holiday Playlist | How Beauty Met the Beast–Location Pictures | Black Friday: How the Beast Survived an Afternoon at the Mall by Jax Garren (+Contest) | Tales of the Underlight Banners | Five Books I’m Excited About! | Monday Mo-tivations 11/5/2012 | Interview and Reading on Blog Talk Radio | Book Launch Fun | Why Start with a Novella? | Creating a Modern Beast | The Next Big Thing Q&A | Six Sentence Sunday-12/16/12 | Six Sentence Sunday – 12/23/12 | Six Sentence Sunday–1/06/13 | Six Sentence Sunday–1/27/13 | Heartbreaker Hop w/ Carrie Ann


Book Teaser(s) :

She got up onto wobbly feet.
Hauk pivoted to Ashley, his form still battle-ready, and assessed her like a threat.
Ashley cringed back against the wall, eyes round in horror. “What’s wrong with him?”
“It’s okay...” Jolie started, hoping that was the truth. She reached toward Hauk, debating if she should touch him or if that would set him off.
But Hauk straightened up; apparently Ashley didn’t need killing. He looked back and forth between the two women.
Jolie relaxed and turned to Ashley. “Nothing’s wrong, really. He’s just sort of—”
Hauk scooped Jolie up and tossed her over his shoulder.
“—oh, shit!—lost his mind. He’ll be fine in the morning.”
He turned as if to carry her away from the club.
“Hauk, sweetie, put me down.”
Instead of setting her down, he started walking. ~ within Chapter 8

Dropping the pretense she grumbled, “I’m not used to being jealous. Apparently it does bad things to my character.” ~ within Chapter 14

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

Made the Grade: The Nephilim Series, Book 1

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 447 KB; Audiobook - Unabridged | Expected Release Date: December 24, 2012 | Publisher: Carina Press | Obtained: NetGalley

"All For You" [The Nephilim Series, Book 1] by Dana Marie Bell

My Book Summary : Five years ago, both Abby & Seth's lives changed... Seth's life changed when his wife suddenly was diagnosed with cancer and passed away not long after. Abby's life changed when her obsessive abusive boyfriend (at the time) tried to murder her. Now years later they both have overcome their past hurts and are ready to start anew...

Abby has had a crush on Seth ever since she was a teenager and her older brother became close friends with him. Nevertheless, because of timing and because of her ex it has taken her until now to have her sister-in-law to set up Abby on a date with Seth. As soon as the two start hanging out together, the chemistry between them is instantaneously apparent. However, when Abby's past seems to catch back up with her in hopes of killing her will Seth be able to protect her or will he loose her right when he found her?

My Book Review : 3 out of 5 stars, this is a suspensefully angelic novel about two people getting over their pasts and making a better future for themselves during unusual circumstances. One positive note I can say for this novel is that I loved the funny one-liners that were sprinkled throughout. In addition, I thoroughly enjoyed the world that this novel was based in and I have high hopes for the secondary characters that were presented in this novel along with whom they'll be matched up with.

However.... Abby was sooo wishy-washy that I went from hating her one-minute to loving the relationship evolving between her and Seth the next. Plus to quote Abby herself:

She really was too stupid to live, wasn’t she? ~ within Chapter 11

Because throughout most of this novel all I kept thinking of her antic was, REALLY why the hell did she just do that? Therefore, the only thing that redeemed this novel for me (other than because of how I liked Seth and his life/friends/family) was Chapter 12--the last chapter--because of how Abby finally turned into the heroine I wanted her to be! If that chapter wasn't as good as it was this novel would have sucked.

SO ... overall, I only recommend this novel to those who are fans of Ms. Bell. However, I have optimistic hopes for this series; therefore, I recommend this novel also to those who like paranormal romances about angels vs. demons!

My Previous Review(s) for this Author : The Wallflower | Sweet Dreams | Dare To Believe

Author's Novel Extras : New Contract, and Howl For Me Up on Barnes and Noble | Change This, Not That | An Angelic, Hobby Birthday | 14k and Cons | I Have Pretties! | Just A Few Notes | A Quickie... Sort Of

Author's Series Extras : Series' Glossary | Looooong Week...

Book Teaser(s) :

She prayed she wasn’t making the second biggest mistake of her life.
She started to wander around his town house, still a little numb. Absently, she began inspecting bits and pieces of his home. She picked up a delicate glass bird and winced. Who the hell picked this out? This is so not him. She noticed there were quite a few bird images around the room.
Fiona must have been seriously into bird-watching. Either that, or Seth was. Somehow she couldn’t picture Seth sitting in a blind with a pair of binoculars, watching feathery antics of the boring kind. Then again, what she knew about Seth would fill a thimble. ~ within Chapter 2

She took a deep breath and blew it out. “Fuck a duck.”
He stuttered out a laugh and dropped his hand. “That’s all you have to say?”
“Give me a break here. I think I’m doing pretty well, considering I’m dreaming as I drown to death in crème brûlée.”
He blinked, his head tilted to the side. “Um, what?” ~ within Chapter 9

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

Made the Grade: Long Shots Series, Book 4

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 365 KB; Audiobook - Unabridged | Expected Release Date: October 8, 2012 | Publisher: Carina Press | Obtained: NetGalley

"Calling the Shots" [Long Shots Series, Book 4] by Christine d'Abo

My Book Summary : Josh is the owner of Mavericks---a fantasy-enabling sex club that is a safe-haven for the members that go there. He's happy with his life (or so he thinks) and has big ambitions of getting investors so he can open up a second club in Montreal. However, before he heads out (if he can) he wants to bring together his two best friends, Oliver & Beth, the way he feels will work best ... by having a threesome with them. All of them are willing and their relationships grow but will it be as easy to push away his two best friends when the time comes? Moreover, when he tries will they be willing to let him go?

My Book Review : 3.5 out of 5 stars, this is about three broken souls learning to embrace who they really are while fighting the demons in their pasts and finding love in the process. I had such high hopes for this novel that it fell a bit short for me, which is very disappointing. =0/ Nevertheless, I enjoyed the characters, the dynamic sex scenes, and reading about the budding relationships between the three main characters. However, as most people commented about this novel, it is full of drama, drama, and more drama. More drama then I ever expected making this novel seem weighed down from the weight of it all. Since some of it was pretty heady stuff.

Overall, though, I do recommend this novel to those who are fans of this series as well to those who enjoy reading erotic m/f/m or m/m romances!!

Author's Novel Extras : As the ink dries on the contract | Cover Reveal – Calling The Shots

Author's Series Extras : It’s Official! I’m a Carina Press Author | Friday Funny – Riding...Turtles? | Review – Double Shot in Library Journal! | And that was November | New Releases and Reviews | 2011 Year in Review

Book Teaser(s) :

A deep blush colored the other man’s face and his eyes were opened wide. Was he just freaking out now about the vandalism? God, Josh hoped not. He was going to need both Oliver and Beth if they were going to keep this mess contained.
“You okay?” Josh stepped over a condom wrapper.
“You kissed me.”
Blinking, Josh’s mind couldn’t keep up with the shifting conversation. “What?”
“You kissed me.” Oliver didn’t seem upset so much as confused.
Josh would normally have some snappy comeback, something to kill the tension between them and brush off his actions. Honestly, he hadn’t even thought about it. Josh kissed Beth all the time, her cheek, forehead and even her lips. But not anyone else.
Not until now. ~ within Chapter 4

She jumped, letting out a squeak when the doorbell rang. Shit, she hadn’t even finished cleaning up. She ran through, straightening pillows, shoving dirty dishes into the dishwasher and kicking her kickboxing pads into the closet. She let out a breath as she tucked her hair behind her ears and ran her hands down the length of her leather skirt, before slipping into her boots and opening the door.
Josh’s large body filled most of the empty space. His long hair had slipped forward, framing his face as he grinned down at her. He looked feral, primitive, the sexiest she’d ever remembered seeing. “Well, hello there. Gorgeous.”
She pressed her hand to the side of her throat. “This old thing?”
“Tease.” ~ within Chapter 12

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

Made the Grade: Heart of the Dragon's Realm by Karalynn Lee

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 354 KB | Expected Release Date: October 29, 2012 | Publisher: Carina Press | Obtained: NetGalley

"Heart of the Dragon's Realm" by Karalynn Lee

My Book Summary : Princess Kimri's life is about to change forever. Recently her brother, the King of Anagard, made an alliance with another realm by offering her hand in marriage. So now, Kimri is off to King Tathan's, also known as the mountain King, realm to become his bride and the Queen of Helsmont. However, when she first gets to Helsmont Tathan informs her that they will be betrothed for a year to get to know one another and back out if either decides they'd like to, which she finds helps her to fall in love with his kingdom and in time the King too.

As things progress Kimri learns that the war between Anagard and a different realm has gotten worse. So much so, that she decides to take matters into her own hands. Nevertheless, will her decisions to help her brother make Tathan not trust her or will he be able to support her in her time of need?

My Book Review : 3 out of 5 stars. Respectful, charming, adventurous, and sweet sum up this novel! I enjoyed getting to know the characters, especially everyone living in Helsmont. However, I think I would have enjoyed this novel more if I could have read from Tathan's perspective. Even though I really did like reading about Kimri and Tathan's growing romance. They were very sweet together.

Although, one thing I'm really curious about is what happened to Kimri because of the nick or slice she got on her arm from the sword-dance she was in. The reason I'm stuck on it is that the book acted like something was going to come out of it, at least that's what I thought, but then there was no follow up. I was really hoping that she would change into a dragon or something .... but oh wells. =0/

With all that being said I do recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys sweet light (with a bit of dramatic) romances.

Author's Novel Extras : Author's Notes | Mini Epilogue

Book Teaser(s) :

His expression was uncharacteristically hesitant. “Rendel’s not here yet. Will you come with me? I have something to show you. A sign of spring, despite the snow yesterday.”
Her curiosity leaped up and she fell into step with him. “Where are we going?”
“Outside the city.”
She halted. “Wait a minute.” She dashed to her room. She pulled on her gloves, realized they should be left for last, yanked them off, struggled into an extra overlarge tunic, traded her scarf for a shawl she could drape over her head, found a fur-lined cloak, donned her gloves again and rejoined the mountain-king in the hallway.
He just looked at her.
“I get cold,” she said defensively, voice muffled by the shawl wrapped around her face.
He smiled faintly as they started walking again. ~ within Chapter 5

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

Made the Grade: Chronicles of Arandal Series, Book 2

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 213 KB | Expected Release Date: August 20, 2012 | Publisher: Carina Press | Obtained: NetGalley

"Shattered Magic" [Chronicles of Arandal Series, Book 2] by Rebecca York (aka Ruth Glick)

My Book Summary : In attempt to avoid an arranged marriage to an evil man, Rowan escapes her village just to find herself running for her life from a mean dragon.

Prince Grantland (Grant) has left his kingdom and his cruel father so he can think about what he truly wants for his life. Be the Prince his was meant to be, even if his father (the King) treats him like a pawn, or try to find a new way of life for himself.

Grant and Rowan meet while the dragon is attacking leaving them to both hide out and be trapped together in a cave. Even as Grant tries to fight the attraction, he feels for Rowan, undeniable sparks fly between them. Nevertheless, what will happen when their secrets are revealed and they realize that they are actually enemies? Will their pasts keep them enemies? Or will their budding love be able to help them to overcome it all?

My Book Review : 3 out of 5 stars, this is a fast-paced paranormal romance. In some ways, I just could not believe what Rowan was doing during the beginning of the book when it came to her relationship to Grant. I thought Rowan to be naive, stubborn, manipulative, and determined, while I thought Grant to be honorable, determined, kind, and brave. Nevertheless, even though I didn't like Rowan, I think she and Grant worked well together as a couple. Especially since, once they got over their problems with their pasts they worked well in defeating their common goals.

Therefore, I recommend this quick read to anyone who likes paranormal romances.

Book Teaser(s) :

But Rowan knew nothing of his exalted position back home. She only knew Grant, the man who wasn’t willing to talk about his background.
He’d slipped and spoken of the castle, then waited with his heart pounding for her to ask what he was talking about. But she’d said nothing, which gave some credence to the notion that she was from an isolated area.
But she was still hiding something from him. As he was from her. How could a real relationship be possible between them unless they both told the truth?
And what about making love with her? There was no doubt that she had been a virgin. What obligation did he have to her on that count?
He had never been in a position like this before. He had been careful about lovemaking. But so much was different here. He had hidden his identity. And he had taken a woman he had no business touching.
As those thoughts swirled in his mind, he walked farther into the cave. ~ within Chapter 9

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

Feasted On: Sharing Hailey by Samantha Ann King

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 436 KB | Expected Release Date: July 9, 2012 | Publisher: Carina Press | Obtained: NetGalley

"Sharing Hailey" by Samantha Ann King

My Book Summary : Hailey just got out of a very bad relationship. She knew for a while now that she should have broken up with Daniel sooner then she did but for some reason she always thought their relationship would get better. That was until the emotional abuse for Daniel escalated to physical abuse.

Now she's going on her family/friends annual trip to Hawaii with hopes to enjoy the sun while putting Daniel and their broken relationship out of her mind.

However, the one thing she never thought would happen .... her older brother's two best friends, Mark & Tony--whom she has had crushes on for years now, would declare their love for her and propose getting into a monogamous ménage à trois. It's all so tempting especially when they all agree to give it a try and start steaming up their sheets/bathrooms/lounge chairs.

Nevertheless, their newfound happiness is put to the test when Daniel decides he won't let her go .... no matter what the cost!

My Book Review : 4 out of 5 stars, this sexually charged romantic thriller is sweet, exciting, and mysterious as you follow the ramifications that Hailey goes through after breaking up with her ex. I loved the relationship and love that Hailey shares with Mark & Tony! Especially since, they've found a way to make them all happy without hurting their friendships. However, even though all relationships have their own trials and tribulations, the ones that these three deal with are harder then usual since Daniel turns out to be a psychopath! It definitely puts a different spin on what happens to their relationship, while keeping the reader entertained enough to see what is going to happen between them!

The only problem I had with this novel was Hailey towards the end of the novel. I mean I loved that the guys understood her worries and concerns, and I loved how the novel turns out at the end, but some of her complaints and worries really annoyed me. And had me wishing she had made some different decisions along the way.

With that being said....I still would recommend this novel to anyone who likes to read ménage romances!

Book Teaser(s) :

“Think about it, Hailey. We’ve been sharing you for years.”
She blushed and tightened her fingers on the mug, trying not to squirm. “Not like that.”
“The only thing that’s changing is that we’ve told you how we feel about you.”
She raised her eyebrows in disbelief.
His crooked grin was a little sheepish. “Well, that and the sex.”
Hailey’s glanced to the crotch of his khaki cargo shorts, and her face got hotter. Her ears were actually burning. Forget that. Her whole body was burning.
“Yeah,” he said. “I’m hoping to do something about that too. Do you have any idea how uncomfortable it is to have a constant hard-on when I’m around you?” ~ within Chapter 4

“But I don’t believe for one second that you two have been celibate for a whole year.”
“You’re right. It’s been fifteen months for me.” Mark shrugged. “I know it sounds pathetic.”
“Bullshit,” she said.
Mark blinked. “Huh?”
“I don’t believe you.”
“Why would he lie?” Tony asked.
“I don’t believe you either,” she replied.
“Why would we lie?”
“I don’t know. But there’s not a snowball’s chance in hell that the women of Albuquerque have allowed you two to remain celibate for the last twelve—” She stared hard at Mark, “—to fifteen months.”
“Are you saying we’re easy?” Mark asked indignantly.
Hailey laughed. “I’m saying you’re hot and women throw themselves at you and you’d have to be a saint not to succumb.”
“Then call the pope and start the paperwork,” Mark replied smugly. ~ within Chapter 12

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

Made the Grade: Wild Pleasures Series, Book 2

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 306 KB; Audiobook - Unabridged | Expected Release Date: April 2, 2012 | Publisher: Carina Press | Obtained: NetGalley

"Consent to Love" [Wild Pleasures Series, Book 2] by Abby Wood

My Book Summary : Ana is a small town girl with big dreams, but knows her limitations (or at least believes she does) that she'll probably live in Pochuk (aka Podunk) for the rest of her life. And she's okay with that, for the most part. Ana has her "hobby" of painting these beautiful creations. In addition, she has hopes to advance from serving beer at the local bar to being their head chef soon. As long as she gets through the day-to-day of it all, she'll be fine.

Howahkan (Kane) has been dealt some hardships throughout his life, especially being a Native American, but he's content with who he is and his life. Nevertheless, when he meets Ana, even though he knows no relationship can last between them, he immediately wants her. Therefore, after Kane convinces Ana to call him they make plans to get together. But will they be able to handle walking away from each other after sharing only a red-hot weekend full of passion?? Or can they try to make something more??

My Book Review : 3 out of 5 stars, this intense, dramatic, and erotic romance is one that keeps you on your toes! Ana and Kane make a good couple and explored quite a bit of sex scenes that I would never have thought of! The plot was unique because it took on the Native American culture in a way I was not use to reading before and thoroughly enjoyed.

I recommend this to anyone who likes contemporary erotic romances!!

Book Teaser(s) :

Her body trembled. Relief turned her muscles to putty, and she flopped back on the bed in complete exhaustion. Kane removed her legs from around his waist and sank down beside her, out of breath.
"You're crazy." She laughed softly, stroking his face.
He arched his eyebrow. "And you've got a filthy mouth."
"Only with you." She grew serious. "With you, I'm safe. You give me power I had no idea I had." ~ within Chapter 8

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

Feasted On: Improper Relations by Juliana Ross

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 280 KB; Audiobook - Unabridged | Expected Release Date: April 23, 2012 | Publisher: Carina Press | Obtained: NetGalley

"Improper Relations" by Juliana Ross

My Book Summary : Years ago when Hannah's husband died she was left with nothing, no money (once all her husband's debts were paid) and no family (since her relatives were dead too), so she begged her late husband's Aunt Augusta (Lady Dorchester) to take her in. However, even though Aunt Augusta agreed to let Hannah become her lady's companion she knows her place and that is of a just a poor relation living with the Marquess of Dorchester's family. From the years living with them she has become accustom to being looked over and ignored.

Therefore, one day when she's in the library enjoying a bit of alone time for herself she's not surprised when Leo (Second son of the Marquess of Dorchester) is unaware of her presents. What really surprises her is when she is caught in her spot in the library while Leo has his own relations with one of their maids. Unsure as to what she should do, and curious all the same as to what the twosome is doing, she is surprised to be addressed by Leo once the maid has left the room. Then they get into a very inappropriate conversation that turns both their worlds around. Should Hannah take Leo up on his proposal about teaching her the finer arts of improper relations? Can she risk everything she has for something she's not curtain she'll ever want to give up? Will her heart get lost in the process?

My Book Review : 4 out of 5 stars, this clever and racy novel pulls you into the life of Hannah, a woman who has to be a lady's companion (which isn't much higher in position than a maid) to be sure, she'll have somewhere to live in England during 1858. Even though Hannah is thirty-years-old and is a widow, she's very naive as to the act of "love making" and after she witnesses in the library, between Leo and a maid, Leo seems more then happy to instruct her into the acts she was really unaware. It's intriguing to read about how Hannah really grows into liking herself and about her budding relationship with Leo.

Leo and Hannah do have a unique relationship. More so because even though Hannah is older than Leo is (I'm very curious as to how many years but the book never says). Leo has more experience then Hannah when it comes to the ways of the world. Nevertheless, I enjoyed reading about them together as they made a good couple.

I recommend this novel to anyone who likes historical erotic romances! It's definitely a sweet read that will leave you hot under the collar. Plus, I loved how the epilogue wrapped everything up so nicely!

Book Teaser(s) :

“Are you certain you’ve never done this before?” he asked, gasping a little, and I could hear how his breathing had quickened. I pulled away for a moment, just long enough to allow myself to look up at him, and was rewarded by the glint of excitement I glimpsed in his eyes.
In that instant, I felt a spark of power kindle within me. Somehow, despite my inexperience, despite his dauntingly vast store of experience, I was pleasing him. The last of my inhibitions melted away, leaving nothing but a limitless swell of possibilities and pleasure to be captured and savored. ~ within Chapter 4

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

Made the Grade: Rules of the Game by Sandy James

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 445 KB; Audiobook - Unabridged | Expected Release Date: April 2, 2012 | Publisher: Carina Press | Obtained: NetGalley

"Rules of the Game" by Sandy James

My Book Summary : Madalyn (Maddie) is on a mission ... find a hot, bad, biker guy to bring back to her high school reunion. After a few trial and errors at the first few biker bars she goes into, she finally finds Mr. Perfect, Scott, at a bar in New Jersey. Maddie proposes to him her plans, have him go to her reunion and she'll pay him because she believes he needs the money.

Scott doesn't immediately agree with her preposition, instead, he asks that she help him get his friends and family off his back about setting him up with woman. Therefore, if she can get his friends and family to believe that they're together then he'll agree to go to her reunion with her.

The one thing Maddie never believed would happen though does, when her feelings for him start turning into something more, and Scott changes the rules of the game before the reunion happens .... they won't be a business arrangement anymore instead they start dating.

However, they both have secrets that they have yet to tell each other that might just ruin the relationship they have going between them. Will they want to stay together once their secrets come out in the open or will their secrets be too much for them to deal with?

My Book Review : 3 out of 5 stars. If you’re looking for a light and fluffy romance to read then this is not the book for you. However, this is a romance novel I could almost believe happened in real life because of all of the trials and tribulations Maddie has to deal with throughout this novel. Thankfully, Scott is a strong hero who protects Maddie at every turn, even from herself when there is a need to do so. I really liked Scott and Maddie as a couple. They made a very good pair.

Nevertheless, Maddie is her own worse nightmare and has a very hard time when it comes to letting things go, which for me was a positive and negative in this book. It's a positive because it humanized Maddie and made the story that more believable. However, it's a negative because it makes Maddie a really poor heroine, to an extent that the story drags on a bit since she takes so long to come to any decisions or has others (like Scott) make her choices for her.

Therefore, if you’re looking for a sweet romance novel that is filled with drama and twists then this is the book for you!

Book Teaser(s) :

“I seriously embarrass you so much you don’t want me to talk to your friends?” My anger rose with each passing second. I thought we had a connection. Realizing he was ashamed of me hurt. A lot.
“That’s what you thought?” A heavy sigh slipped from his lips as he pulled his hands from his pockets and rested them on my shoulders. A soft kiss against my forehead eased the hurt. “It wasn’t that. I just...I’m not ready to talk about work yet. I’m...embarrassed.”
I couldn’t help but breathe a sigh of relief. I’d been right. Scott didn’t talk about work because he thought I might look down on what he did to earn a living. Perhaps I should have been insulted that he thought I was that shallow, but stereotypes are hard to fight. Just how bad was his job? “Look, are you some mafia hit man?”
“God, no.”
“Do you do anything illegal?”
I loved his lopsided grin. “Not most of the time.”
“Do people need your help?”
“Oh, yeah.”
“Do you star in pornos?”
His only answer was a hearty chuckle. ~ within Chapter 5

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

Made the Grade: His Secret Temptation by Cat Schield

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 371 KB | Expected Release Date: April 16, 2012 | Publisher: Carina Press | Obtained: NetGalley

"His Secret Temptation" by Cat Schield

My Book Summary : After coming home from a long work trip Simon finds his own personal Goldilocks sleeping in his bed. He's intrigue with the beauty in his bed but knows he needs to wake her up, so he does and gets a surprise he never expected. This Goldilocks is actually Caroline his maid of the past six months that he never met before. However, from their quirky notes to each other that they shared during that time he's learned that she's a law student that has less of a social life then he does.

Caroline is so embarrassed to be found sleeping on Simon's bed but she is even more surprised by her instant attraction to him. Nevertheless, just as they are introducing themselves and getting to know each other a bit, Simon's ex-girlfriend and future sister-in-law stops by Simon's place with plans to seduce him.

Completely thrown off guard and unsure of how to get his ex out of his apartment Simon tells her that Caroline is his fiancée and gets her to leave. Therefore, with the holidays right around the corner Simon proposes a deal to Caroline she pretend to be his fiancée while they go visit his family during Christmas for two weeks and he'll pay the debt she owes to her financial loans.

Even though Caroline has a major thing against lying to people, she really needs the money for her loans, so she agrees to Simon's charade. However, once Caroline meets Simon's family, possibly falling in love with them and him, will she be able to keep to her agreement for long?

My Book Review : 3.5 out of 5 stars! It's a fun, humorous, and spicy novel that had me enamored with the characters most of the way through. Even though the plots are a bit different this novel reminded me a little of Sandra Bullock's movie "While You Were Sleeping." Mostly because of the way Caroline has no family of her own and a bit on the poorer side, then gets swept-up and brought into this loving family that she wants so much to be her own but knows that's not really possible.

I really enjoyed reading about the banter and sexual tension that goes on between Caroline and Simon. I just wish the novel was a bit more fleshed out instead of being a world-win romance, but it was written well enough for me to like it too.

If you’re looking for a quick novel that will keep you on your toes while warming you up on a winter night then this is the book for you!

Book Teaser(s) :

“I know it’s a lot to take in,” Simon said.
She could use a couple of hours to sort through all the impressions she had about Simon’s family, but they were passing through Savannah on the way to the Historic District and the house Simon had grown up in. A house that had been in his mother’s family since the eighteen-thirties. There was a lot of tradition tied up in Simon’s roots. How would his parents feel about an interloper like her?
“It’s okay,” she said, putting her worries aside. “If I survived my complex litigation class, I can remember a couple hundred stories about your family.”
“I suppose that’s your way of saying I don’t know anything about you.”
“You already know my mother is dead and my father is a movie character, what more is there to know?” She kept her tone light, but a trace of bitterness crept in. When compared to Simon’s rich family background, her story sounded flat.
“How about what sort of music you listen to?”
“Joss Stone. Tori Amos.” She spun the engagement ring around on her finger, still unaccustomed to the weight, and assessed his lack of recognition. “I told you it doesn’t matter.”
“What does it say about me that I don’t know the simplest things about the woman I plan to marry?”
“That you’re an inconsiderate ass?”
He burst out laughing as she repeated what he’d said to his mother the day before. ~ within Chapter 4

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

What was I thinking?: Sisters of McDougal Ranch Series, Book 3

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 308 KB | Expected Release Date: February 13, 2012 | Publisher: Carina Press | Obtained: NetGalley

"Margot's Lawman" [Sisters of McDougal Ranch Series, Book 3] by Debra Kayn

What was I thinking? : I saw the book description on NetGalley and at the time it looked like a cute story .... boy was I wrong!!

My Book Summary : Over the past year, Margot & Roy Lee have been keeping their relationship a secret. This way they could take their new relationship slow so they won't hurt their long time friendship.

Now that they've made it a year together, they are ready to let everyone know they are in love. However, just as things are starting to go good between them, an unexpected secret comes between them, that may hurt their relationship more than expected. Will they be able to move past this secret and get their relationship back to normal or will this everything they have created together?

My Book Review : 1 out of 5 stars. I'm sorry to say but I didn't enjoy any of this novel. Margot is very annoying, she stresses about everything so much that she never moves forward, or if she does, it'll be very slowly. It's so bad that for their first year of dating Margot & Roy Lee didn't tell anyone. Roy Lee actually seemed to be a good character in the beginning but by the time the secret came out about Ryan, he became just as bad as Margot. Terrible.

I would only recommend this novel to anyone who likes the series to begin with.

Book Teaser(s) :

She gazed at the front of his jeans, and damned if he nearly burst. He swallowed.
“One...” He cupped her face and tilted it up to his, studying her carefully, wanting to make sure she knew she had about ten seconds before he made the decision for her. “I can lay you down in the grass and show you how a real cowboy takes the woman he loves, or...or you get on the horse, ride like hell back to the house and wait for me in the bedroom where I’ll have you on your back nice and proper.”
“But—” She frowned. “I don’t wanna wait.”
“That’s my girl.” He captured her mouth and lowered her to the ground. ~ within Chapter 7

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

Made the Grade: A Waltz at Midnight by Crista McHugh

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 238 KB | Expected Release Date: February 27, 2012 | Publisher: Carina Press | Obtained: NetGalley

"A Waltz at Midnight" by Crista McHugh

My Book Summary : Set in 1866, right after the American Civil War, Susanna finds her life completely changed. Instead of living in the home she grew up in the south, her brother and her now live in their Aunt's boarding house in New York. Where she works as a servant there, dealing with spoiled debutantes. However, when one of the debutantes receives a letter from a suitor that she would like to discourage but doesn't know how, she hires Susanna to do so for her.

One letter turns into two and then she finds that she enjoys written to this suitor more than she should. However, what will happen when emotions get involved and it finally becomes time to meet, will she be able to tell him the truth in hopes he won't get angry or will she let him go for good??

My Book Review : 3 out of 5 stars! Even though this isn't true, this is a short story that seemed to be a clever mix of Disney's "Cinderella" and Lisa Kleypas's "Love in the Afternoon." From the way Susanna is now a servant (like in "Cinderella") to how she is asked to respond to someone else's suitor (like how the plot is in "Love in the Afternoon"). However, since I like both of those novels it made me enjoy this short story that much more.

I really liked reading the letters between Susanna and Theodore, they were flirty, well written, and have enough banter, between the two of them, that I could see the romance bloom after each letter. Then, of course, the author wraps up the story in such a sweet way that makes everyone happy .... except, probably, Theodore and Charlotte's parents.

I recommend this to anyone who liked the two stories listed above and to anyone who would enjoy reading a short story historical romance. One that is very sweet and charming. =0)

Book Teaser(s) :

She paused, wanting to continue to berate him by sharing her personal stories of the tears she shed when her father was killed at Gettysburg, the brave face she was forced to show when her brother returned missing a leg and half-dead from fever, or her flight from Columbia when Sherman came marching in with lit torches. But then she remembered she was posing as Charlotte. Mr. Blakely didn’t know who she was and wouldn’t even care about a refugee from the South.
She signed Charlotte’s name and sealed the letter in an envelope. The first flakes of winter’s snow were falling outside, but she didn’t care. She just wanted to be done with Mr. Theodore Blakely. ~ within Chapter 3

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

Made the Grade: Pack and Coven by Jody Wallace

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 501 KB | Expected Release Date: February 20, 2012 | Publisher: Carina Press | Obtained: NetGalley

"Pack and Coven" by Jody Wallace (aka Ellie Marvel)

My Book Summary : Ever since Harry had issues with his previous pack, he has never joined another one and has no plans too. He's happy being an indie werewolf, enjoys his "grandmother" type friends, and being the local mechanic at the town he's living in. However, the local pack is in need of a new alpha and wants him to step up to the plate and take the position ... which is the last thing that Harry wants to do.

Knowing Harry's predicament June, a friend of his, makes plans to help him any way possible, even if that means going against her own coven's rules. Nevertheless, helping Harry also has the potential to inadvertently expose secrets from both of them to come out to each other. With each new secret that comes out has the potential to ruin both of their lives, depending if the pack and/or coven finds out that the secrets have been told. How much are Harry and June willing to risk for each other and keep their lives the way they want them??

My Book Review : 3.5 out of 5 stars, this is one action-packed romance novel that takes a whole new twist on what it means to be a witch within a shifter world. From finding out the secrets, that June was hiding to finding out how eccentric the witches were I enjoyed reading about how dynamic the world is that this story is set in.

About the Characters:
• June: Sweet, older than she looks, a witch who's keeping secrets.

• Harry: Protective about those he cares for, Alpha male, an independent werewolf, someone who has a secret past.

• Bianca: The Alpha female of her pack who plans to do whatever it takes to have Harry join her pack.

• June's Coven: Funny, quirky, and unique. Willing to do what it takes to make sure their secrets stay that way.

• Gavin: A wannabe Alpha werewolf willing to do anything to be sure he gets what he wants.

I liked the way this story is wrapped up (Harry and June's tale). However, I wish it didn't leave off some things about the other characters. Like what happened to the guys that came with Gavin, Maurice especially since he seemed kinda sweet. =0/ I think this has the potential to turn into a cool series if the author wanted to. You just never know. Anyway ....

I recommend this novel to everyone who enjoys paranormal romances that are action-packed in more than one way! =0)

Book Teaser(s) :

Fighting the urge to curl up and sleep, she pushed Harry’s face into her neck and peered at the old shifter awaiting an answer. A pure white beard and mustache surrounded his face, and his head hair had given in to the recessive gene not even shifters were able to avoid. He looked like Santa Claus, if Santa wore flannel and denim instead of red and white. ~ within Chapter 5

“Are you saying I could alter my appearance?”
“It’s a theory. We haven’t been able to experiment.”
“You looking for a guinea pig?” He liked new things—yet another reason he was no packer.
“No.” But her gaze lost focus as she considered it, just like when she had an idea for pie.
“How about a compromise?” He started grooming her PJs, removing pine needles. “If you stay in the tree, I’ll see what’s going on at the house.” He could sneak down there, listen in and sneak back before Maurice caught up to Gavin.
“No, sir. In horror movies when the actors separate, neither of them make it.”
“I can outrun Michael Myers.” ~ within Chapter 10

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