Headed For Trouble (The McKays #1) by Shiloh Walker- a review

HEADED FOR TROUBLE by Shiloh Walker-a review

Headed for Trouble

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / The Book Depository / BAM

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 29, 2015

SHE’S A SMALL-TOWN GIRL WITH BIG DREAMS.

Nine years ago, Neve McKay fled her small Southern town and disapproving family to seek a career in the big city. Now she’s finally coming home – and hoping for a fresh start. But the relationship that shattered her world still haunts her. And even among her nearest and dearest, she doesn’t feel safe.

CAN THIS BAD BOY BE THE ANSWER TO HER PRAYERS?

Ian Campbell is a pure Scottish muscle – as hard and handsome as they come. But when Neve walks into his bar, his heart melts . . . and he vows to have this gorgeous and somewhat vulnerable woman in his life – for better or for worse. What is Neve’s tragic secret? And how can Neve expect Ian to protect her, when doing so could put his own life at risk? The only thing Ian knows for sure is that he will do whatever it takes to keep her out of harm’s way – and in his loving arms.

••••••

REVIEW: HEADED FOR TROUBLE is the first installment in Shiloh Walker’s contemporary, adult, romantic suspense series focusing on the McKay family from the small Mississippi town of McKay Treasure. This is youngest daughter Neve McKay, and Scotsman/bar manager Ian Campbell’s storyline.

Told from several third person perspectives HEADED FOR TROUBLE focuses on Neve McKay’s return home to McKay Treasure following ten years of separation from her family and friends. Following the death of her parents Neve became something of a wild child and with it all of the stereotypical behavior and family disappointment. By the time our heroine was ready to set out on her own, she had become more or less a stranger to her older siblings. But years away from family finds Neve seeking the love and shelter of the people she knows will protect her with their lives-Neve is on the run, and has been for a number of years-and McKay Treasure is the last place she knows where the people will ensure her safety. Enter Ian Campbell-Neve’s brother Brannon’s best friend-and the man who would steal her heart. With Neve’s past seeking revenge, Brannon and Ian don’t think it is a coincidence when the past is familiar to them as well.

Neve’s backstory is heartbreaking, painful and sad. Not only has she had to deal with her also-grieving dysfunctional family but our heroine never had a support system in place when everything began to fall apart.

Ian Campbell is a man very much involved in the McKay family business but a man whose own past has many similarities to Neve McKay’s. Ian is immediately drawn to his best friend’s youngest sister but knows that the relationship may be forbidden on so many levels. The $ex scenes are intimate and seductive without the over the top erotic imagery and text.

HEADED FOR TROUBLE has a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including the McKay siblings-Moira and Brannon, as well as their housekeeper Ella Sue. We are also introduced to local police chief Gideon Marshall who has a history with Moira McKay-the woman who still calls to his heart. There is also another storyline developing involving Brannon and Hannah-a woman he has known for a number of years but Brannon doesn’t do relationships and Hannah is about to shake up his world.

There are a number of future story lines building throughout HEADED FOR TROUBLE and in this the focus on the main story was scattered as the potential to introduce several scenarios distracted from Neve and Ian’s story.

HEADED FOR TROUBLE is a suspense filled story of intrigue and romance with heartbreak and betrayal; romance and love; tragic lives and horrific pasts. Shiloh Walker looks at a dysfunctional family whose losses are many; whose past is haunting; whose future can only get better. A wonderful introductory storyline to a new series.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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Malibu Secrets by MK Meredith -a Review

Malibu Secrets by MK Meredith -a Review

 

Malibu Secrets

Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / BAM

Description:
Every girl has a secret (or two)…

On the verge of losing the Malibu home she inherited from her great-aunt, Addi Dekker is completely failing to prove to her family she can make it as a writer. Not exactly how a girl proves her independence. If she doesn’t want to give up her dream and go back to the soul-sucking job she just left, Addi has to swallow her dislike of Hollywood and rent the house out to the sexy-as-hell film producer.

And maybe (shhhh!) save money by secretly living there, too.

Roque Gallagher is pouring his heart and savings into his first independent film to make the industry acknowledge him for his talent and not just his family name. Addi’s home is perfect for the shoot, but she’s far too tempting. He’s never been able to handle work and a relationship, and this is the film of a lifetime. Between a shrinking budget and his director quitting, the last thing he needs is a sexy-as-sin tease like Addi. And he has a feeling there’s something she’s hiding…

 

Review:

When wild child Addi lives up (down) to her family’s prediction, her Malibu bungalow inheritance in foreclosure, time is of the essence and Addi is desperate. When cornered, however, Addi is nothing if not resourceful. As much as it pains her, Roque, stellar Hollywood producer, is the answer to her prayers…if not her dreams. But that comes later, much later, since neither person is ready, or willing, to address the attraction. Welcome to book 2 of the Malibu Sights series, Malibu Secrets, by MK Meredith, where real Hollywood dreams have nothing to do with box office numbers.

The time had come for her to grow up and figure out a way to gather up the pieces of her latest disaster without her entire family-and their friends-finding out.

Addi isn’t like her older sister, Sam (book 1, Malibu Betrayals review available here ) , and far from dedicated, workaholic older brother-attorney, Luca. She’s impulsive and “fanciful” and happy being such. That is, until things spiraled out of control and she’s $18,000 in the hole, on the brink of losing her home.

The need was immediate upon seeing the tears in her eyes, and he’d genuinely thought she’d jump at the chance to rent to him, especially considering her predicament. She’d only have a limited time to save her home. The information on her public records had been his Hail Mary-for him and her, really. But she’d thrown him out.

Why, then, would she decline Roque’s offer? The gorgeous uber producer wants to film his movie at her home – that obviously comes with payment to vacate and since it’s Hollywood, you can imagine the bank she could make! That was the first mistake: Assume, and you make an “ass” out of you and me. I fit that into a review – always wanted to do that! 😉

What I really enjoyed through paced storytelling were the similarities in background. Though fleshed out differently, life is propelled by adult choices, the feeling of inadequacy, of hovering shadows, were one and the same for Roque and Addi. They both had drive and something to prove to their families. This obstinate pair, however, looked everywhere but within, to find that approval. And when their individual desires begin to encroach on the other’s, “From the moment they’d met, she’d been in panic mode, and he’d been in production mode”, well…Malibu Secrets are spilled, and these don’t have a chance at the cleaners!

A book filled with powerful dialogue, swoon-worthy declarations, and tense, but necessary confrontations. MK Meredith encompasses all of this wonderful to execute a faith of rising above. Addi and Roque fight with each other and for each other – now that’s success!

Reviewed by Carmen

Copy provided by Publisher       

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The Rake’s Irish Lady by Barbara Monajem – a Review

The Rake’s Irish Lady by Barbara Monajem – a Review

 

The Rake's Irish LadyAmazon

DESCRIPTION
 
ONE WILD NIGHT . . . 

Widowed & lonely, Bridget O’Shaughnessy Black indulges herself in a night of pleasure. 
After all, she’s in disguise. And the baby girl? An unexpected blessing. . .until an old flame claims the child as his own to force Bridget to marry him. 

ONE DETERMINED LADY . . . 

Many women pursued Colin Warren, but only one climbed in his bedchamber window. When Bridget does it for the second time, she doesn’t have fun in mind. Colin is unfit to be a parent, and yet he has no choice but to acknowledge the little girl. 

RISKING EVERYTHING FOR LOVE 

Circumstances force Bridget and Colin together, yet grave differences divide them. Can love bridge the chasm that keeps them apart?
 
REVIEW
 
5 out of 5 for this reader folks!
 
I LOVED this book!  The Rake’s Irish Lady by Barbara Monajem is the second book in her Scandalous Kisses series.  I remember really enjoying the first book and this one absolutely delivered the same way.
 
Bridget O’Shaughnessy Black is half Irish/English but her stereotypical Irish side is prevalent in her daily life.  She is feisty and daring, but she also tones it down perfectly for polite English society.  Bridget is also a widower with a six year old girl.  She absolutely loved her husband but a few months after his death her loneliness gets the better of her, and she finds herself climbing into a mans window for a night of passion.  This passion created her daughter Sylvie, who she has introduced as her late husbands daughter
 
Colin Warren is one bored, lost, in a rut English gentlemen.  He just lives day by day, hoping for some excitement.  He gambles, is a rake with the ladies, but he moves through his life with no purpose, almost apathetic to the world in general.  
 
When Bridget is blackmailed by an old lover, she tracks down Colin to try and get him to claim Sylvie as his.  Colin wants no part of it, but out of the many unmemorable woman in his past, he sure does remember Bridget.  As they go through adventure, danger, time spent together and more, Colin realized he is coming back to life.  Will they both realize they have more to gain than to lose before it’s too late?
 
This was a page tuner for me.  I read it in one sitting (LOVE the holidays ..lol), and just basked in this romance.  The silliness, idiot moments were completely acceptable in this story as you can tell by the characters personalities that this is likely what they would do.  I loved Colin interacting with his daughter, although Sylvie really made him work for it.  Bridget’s determination to do everything she can to provide happiness to both herself and Sylvie is admirable.  She could of settled for a whole new life that offered stability, but trusting her gut was the best thing she could of done!
 
A wonderful historical romance, that flowed and had some yummy steamy moments, I am happy to recommend this series to anyone who likes this genre! 🙂
 
HAPPY READING and HAPPY NEW YEAR! 🙂


Reviewed by Rachel


Copy provided by Author
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Dead Eye by Alyssa Day – a Review

Dead Eye by Alyssa Day – a Review

 

Dead EyeAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / BAM

Description:
For Jack Shepherd, tiger shape-shifter and former soldier, life is heading for a dead end. Dead End, Florida, to be exact. When he learns that he inherited a combination pawn shop/private investigation agency from his favorite uncle, Jack’s first job is to solve his uncle’s murder. Because sometimes it takes a tiger’s eye to see the truth.

 

 

Review:

Dead Eye by Alyssa Day is the 1st book in her new Tiger’s Eye Series. I am a big fan of Alyssa’s Warriors of Poseidon series. I was thrilled to find out one of our favorite characters in that series was going to get his own story. Dead Eye is Jack’s series, which he will be the lead with Tess, our heroine.

Jack returns home to Dead Eye, Florida and finds out his uncle was murdered. He hasn’t seen Tess, who was a kid when he left many years ago, and he is surprised to see a beautiful young woman. Jack inherits with Tess, the town pawn shop and a private investigation business. He learns from Tess about witches and a crooked sheriff, who are possibly behind his uncle’s murder, not to mention more murders that will come. Together both Jack and Tess will put their lives in danger to find out the truth, and stop the powerful witch.

Anything more would be spoilers. It was great to see Jack again, and I really like Tess, who played a major role in this book. We can tell that Jack and Tess find themselves attracted to each other, but this is a slow build romance that we expect will be explored further in the next book. The last half of the book, was very exciting, and I sat on the edge of my seat to reach the tense climax.  

This series will revolve around Jack’s Tiger’s Eye private investigation business, which will keep him in Dead Eye with Tess. I look forward to the next book of this series, and what Alyssa Day has in store for us with Jack and Tess.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Author

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Shattered / Gifted (Lost in Oblivion) by Cari Quinn & Taryn Elliott-reviews

Shattered / Gifted (Lost in Oblivion) by Cari Quinn & Taryn Elliott-reviews

Shattered Gifted

•••••••••••••••••

ShatteredSHATTERED
(Lost in Oblivion #4)
by Cari Quinn and Taryn Elliott
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romance

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 3, 2015

He’s shattered…and she’s the only woman who can help him pick up the pieces.

Nick Crandall has everything he ever thought he wanted. Tons of money, a glamorous lifestyle, professional admiration for making music. But all his success doesn’t erase the memories of who and what he’s lost on the road to fame and fortune. Nor does it stop his dream from shattering, right before his eyes.

Until the person he least expects pulls him back from the brink.

Lila Shawcross is obsessed with her work, which includes managing the drama-prone members of Oblivion. She’s definitely not about to let a hot-headed, hard-bodied lead guitarist wreck her orderly existence or dilute her focus. So what if she’s never craved a man quite this much? There are just too many complications, including the gold band on her left hand.

Except Nick is determined to possess her…and what Nick wants, Nick gets. Because this time, he’s not walking away.

•••••••••

REVIEW: SHATTERED is the fourth full-length installment in the contemporary, adult LOST IN OBLIVION erotic romance series co-authored by Cari Quinn and Taryn Elliott focusing on the members of the rock band Oblivion. This is guitarist Nick Crandall, and band manager Lila Shawcross’s storyline. SHATTERED can be read as a stand alone but for cohesion and backstory, as well as Nick and Lila’s history, I recommend reading the series in order as all of the previous couples play a secondary and supporting role.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Nick and Lila) SHATTERED follows the forbidden relationship between Oblivion’s guitarist Nick Crandall, and their manager Lila Shawcross-Lila is married, and although she is for all intents and purposes separated from the man in question, there are reasons that her affair with Nick can never be made public. Lila’s ice-cold exterior hides a sensitive and damaged soul.

For months Lila and Nick have butted heads due in part to Nick’s attitude, and Lila’s ‘Dragon Lady’ managerial skills as it pertains to the band’s public relations and personal lives. But Nick’s reputation as a man-whore; a sexually aggressive rocker has played havoc with Lila’s thoughts and ideas about Nick. As their relationship begins to develop, Nick and Lila’s feelings and emotions for one another grow deeper but Lila’s broken marriage and Nick’s past keep rearing their ugly heads. Meanwhile, Nick’s family life continues to implode as he finds himself falling for the same old scams and heartbreaking betrayal brought about by his father and sister back home. We get up close with Nick as the demons from his past continue to control his present.

The relationship between Lila and Nick has been building for several story lines. Nick and Lila’s rapport with one another has been acrimonious and antagonistic. Lila blames Nick for a number of the band’s problems, and Nick sees Lila as a controlling shrew. The $ex scenes are erotic, sensual and provocative.

All of the previous story line couples play a secondary and supporting role as we get reacquainted with Deacon and Harper, Gray and Jazz, Simon and Margo.

SHATTERED is an erotic tale; the introduction to Nick and Lila’s forbidden romance that finds two people lost in a world of broken promises and broken hearts, misunderstandings, and betrayal. The premise is engaging, captivating and inspiring; the characters are colorful, dynamic and animated; the romance is provocative and intense. SHATTERED ends on a cliffhanger-there is more Lila and Nick to come.

Reviewed by Sandy

_______

GiftedGIFTED: Lost in Oblivion Christmas
Lost in Oblivion 4.2
by Cari Quinn / Taryn Elliott
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic romance

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO /

ABOUT THE BOOK Release Date December 16, 2015

All he wants is Christmas with his band and his girl…and a strand of pearls.

Rock star Nick Crandall is determined to make this Christmas the best of his life. So what if his beloved band, Oblivion, may be on the rocks? So what if his girl, Lila Shawcross, the band’s manager, has been freezing him out for days without telling him why? And hey, who needs snow anyway? In Southern California, it’s always hot.

Especially when the band gets back together for their kind of misfit family Christmas, and Nick and Lila reunite for one steamy night…

•••••••••

REVIEW: GIFTED is a short Christmas story from Cari Quinn and Taryn Elliott that focuses on Nick and Lila’s tumultuous relationship during the Christmas holidays. The timeline falls between SHATTERED November 2015) and FUSED (February 2016).

It is Christmas time. The members of Oblivion have gathered for a family celebration, and Nick has yet to buy gifts so he embarks on a Christmas Eve shopping spree with Jazz, in the hopes of finding the perfect gift for Lila Shawcross-the band’s manager- and the other members of the band. Told from dual close third person perspectives (Lila and Nick) GIFTED is a sweet story line that follows Nick and Lila several days after the events and cliff hanger ending of SHATTERED wherein Nick is unaware of the events that transpired to push Lila in another direction. Nick’s gift to Lila will play an intricate role in tying Lila to his heart-a string of pearls that is representative of their relationship.

All the members of the band Oblivion play secondary and supporting roles; there is a new introduction to the Oblivion family; and Lila leaves Nick to believe in a future with the woman that he loves. The $ex scenes are erotic and inventive.

GIFTED is a sweet story about the joy and magic of Christmas; a glimpse into the dynamics of the band; the family of your heart; and friendships that will last a lifetime

Reviewed by Sandy

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The Lady’s Command (The Adventurers Quartet #1) by Stephanie Laurens-a review

THE LADY’S COMMAND (The Adventurers Quartet #1) by Stephanie Laurens-a review

The Lady's Command

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / The Book Depository / BAM

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 29, 2015

The instant Captain Declan Frobisher laid eyes on Lady Edwina Delbraith, he knew she was the lady he wanted as his wife. The scion of a seafaring dynasty accustomed to success, he discovered that wooing Edwina was surprisingly straightforward—not least because she made it plain that she wanted him as much as he wanted her.

Declan’s vision of marriage was of a gently-reared wife to grace his arm, to manage his household, and to bear his children. He assumed that household, children, and wife would remain safely in England while he continued his life as an explorer sailing the high seas.

Declan got his wish—up to a point. He and Edwina were wed. As for the rest—his vision of marriage…

Aunt of the young Duke of Ridgware and sister of the mysterious man known as Neville Roscoe, London’s gambling king, even before the knot was tied Edwina shattered the illusion that her character is as delicate, ethereal, and fragile as her appearance suggests. Far from adhering to orthodox mores, she and her ducal family are even more unconventional than the Frobishers.

Beneath her fairy-princess exterior, Edwina possesses a spine of steel—one that might bend, but will never break. Born to the purple—born to rule—she’s determined to rule her life. With Declan’s ring on her finger, that means forging a marriage that meets her needs as well as his.

But bare weeks into their honeymoon, Declan is required to sail to West Africa. Edwina decides she must accompany him.

A secret mission with unknown villains flings unexpected dangers into their path as Declan and Edwina discover that meeting the challenge of making an unconventional marriage work requires something they both possess—bold and adventurous hearts.

••••••••••••••

REVIEW: THE LADY’S COMMAND is the first installment in Stephanie Laurens’ THE ADVENTURERS QUARTET historical romance series with a little bit of mystery and suspense that focuses on the Frobisher Brothers. This is Captain Declan Frobisher, and Lady Edwina Frobisher’s story line.

Told from dual third person points of view THE LADY’S COMMAND focuses on an investigation into a number of missing people in a British settlement in Freetown, West Africa in 1824. When Captain Declan Frobisher is commanded to head the fact-finding mission, his wife of three weeks stows aboard his ship, and Declan finds himself partnered with the women he loves as he searches for answers to the missing British citizens. What ensues is a gentle inquiry as to the ‘rumors’ about the vanishing people, and who may be responsible for the mysterious acts. When Edwina and Declan push a little bit too hard, our heroine finds herself the next intended victim.

THE LADY’S COMMAND is the introductory story line that offers a little bit of background into the missing people; a possible illegal slave trade; hints, clues and the investigative process; plus a little bit of history about the Frobisher family. There are moments of seductive romance; intrigue, mystery and suspense that add a number of possibilities as to the who, what, and why of the disappearance of several people in Freetown, West Africa. The romance aspect of the story line is beautifully written but the relationship between our couple has already been established so there was none of the angst or anxiety of a building love. All of the $ex scenes were very descriptive (flowery and romantic) but mostly implied.

Stephanie Laurens writes a story line that follows two paths: the investigation into the missing people; and the loving relationship between a new husband and wife. If you are a fan of sweet and sensual romance, set in a time not so long ago, with a little bit of mystery and suspense then THE LADY’S COMMAND is a great way to start a new series.

Copy supplied by Netgalley.

Reviewed by Sandy

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Mastered (The Enforcers #1) by Maya Banks-a review

Mastered (The Enforcers #1) by Maya Banks-a review

Mastered

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / BAM

About the book: Release Date December 29, 2015

She stood out in his club like a gem, unspoiled and untouched. A lamb among wolves, she clearly didn’t belong. Drawn to her innocence he watched as she was surrounded by men who saw what he did—but no one but him could touch her. He summoned her to his private quarters. He sensed her fear. He also recognized the desire in her eyes. And he knew she wouldn’t leave before he possessed her. She had no need to know his secrets. Not until he had her under his complete and utter control.

What he wants, she isn’t sure she can give him.

The moment he told her want he wanted, she couldn’t resist. Instinct told her to run, but her heart said stay and walk the fine line between pleasure and pain. Though she wasn’t sure she could ever completely surrender, the primal part of her wanted to try, even knowing this man could break her in ways she never imagined. Because once he possessed her, he owned her and it would be too late to turn back. She can only pray that he doesn’t destroy her in the end.

••••••••••••••••

Mastered begins with Evangeline being dumped by her jerk of a boyfriend. Her group of best friends are dressing her up and sending her to a club (to which one of them got a VIP pass), by herself. Seems the friend could only snag one pass. The reason Evangeline agrees to go is because her ex frequents the club and she wants him to see what he’s missing. (Really?) Of course, once she gets there, she runs smack dab into him and to say he berates her is a bit of an understatement. As he physically attacks her, the bouncers step in and quickly handle the ex and hustle Evangeline upstairs to the boss’ office.

As Drake watched the events downstairs unfold, he was livid. He could absolutely tell that Evangeline was in way over her head by coming to a club like his, but even more than that, no one was ever allowed to put their hands on a woman the way that jacka$$ had. When the door to Drake’s office opened and in walked Evangeline, he knew, somehow, that things would never be the same.

Things heat up quickly between the two, and as the blurb says, Evangeline knew she should run, but just couldn’t make herself do it. As Drake tried to sooth Evangeline, he also seduced her, and she couldn’t say no. He also informed her he’d see her again the next night. Once she regained a little control, she went home and was glad her room mates weren’t up. She had to get her head wrapped around what had happened before she could begin to talk about it. Once she and her friends did discuss what happened, they were all a little bumfuzzled. Evangeline was the slow and steady one and had never been adventurous and decided to go to work instead of going back to see Drake.

When Evangeline wasn’t there when she was supposed to be, Drake sent one of his men to pick Evangeline up after her shift and bring her to him. When she walked out and saw Drake’s man waiting on her, she tried to talk her way out of going with him, but he more or less told her she was going one way or the other. After that, things happen very quickly. They are both attracted to each other, but she is scared out of her mind. Her friends are not supportive of her decision to move things further with Drake, she’s left heartbroken by that, but decides she doesn’t need their permission or their encouragement. As Drake and Evangeline navigate their new relationship and try to get to know each other, they hit a few bumps but seem to work through things. Until one night when Evangeline was supposed to be gone because Drake was entertaining business associates, but she decides to surprise him by cooking for him and his guests. What follows turns everyone’s world upside down. Drake had his reasons, but all Evangeline knows is that she was humiliated and hurt more than she ever thought she could be. When she runs away, all Drake can do is go after her……

Mastered is a little bit different than Maya’s other books. First off, it ends with a cliffhanger. She said there wasn’t enough room in one book to tell these characters’ stories. Due to that, we really don’t know any of the background information on Drake. I mean nothing! We know some about Evangeline, but I have a feeling there’s more to her as well. The central characters are typical. Evangeline is surviving paycheck to paycheck and is doing everything she can to help her family back in Mississippi. Drake is very dominant and bossy and wants everything his way. Of course there was instant attraction, but I liked both of the characters, as I always do with Maya’s books. I liked this book, but didn’t love it. However, if the next book goes the way I hope it does, I may need to come back and amend the like/love thing. It has the potential to be really, really good, but I’ll have to see how the next one goes. Again, I liked the book. Just, didn’t love it. I’m a huge, HUGE Maya fan and can’t wait for the next one.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Vickie M

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Susana and the Scot by Sabrina York-Review and Interview

Susana and the Scot by Sabrina York-Review and Interview

Susana and the Scot

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / The Book Depository / BAM

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 29, 2015

A SCANDALOUS TEMPTATION

Andrew Lochlannach is famous for his conquests, on and off the battlefield. When a fellow warrior challenges him to a kissing contest, he wastes no time in planting his lips on ninety-nine lovely lasses—an impressive feat of seduction that gets him banished to the farmlands. Still, Andrew has no regrets about his exploits—especially his embrace with the most beguiling woman he’s ever met…

AN UNDENIABLE PASSION

With flaming red hair and a temper to match, Susana is not the kind of innocent farmgirl who gives herself over easily to a man, even one as ruggedly handsome as Andrew. The wicked Scot may have won a kiss from the headstrong beauty in a moment of mutual desire, but Susana refuses to be just another one of his conquests. Andrew must convince the fiery lass that even though he is not playing a game, losing her is not an option…

REVIEW:

5 out of 5 for this reader folks!

Susana and the Scot by Sabrina York is the second book in her “Untamed Highlander” series. I have to say, I love my highlanders untamed, so she absolutely delivered all I love in my historical highland romances.

Andrew Lochlannach loves the lasses, and the lasses love him. It is when he loves them a little too much that his brother Alexander (we met him in the first book of this series) has had enough and sends him away in “exile” to teach him a lesson. Exile comes in the form of a mission. Andrew must provide protection for the family of his brother’s new bride at Dounreay castle. This includes the protection of the fiery “have to have her because she lights me up” Susana.

Susana is the epitome of a strong, proud highland lass. She can be a polite and proper lady and she can also defend herself, her loved ones and her home as harshly as any man … she is someone you do not want to cross. Poor Andrew .. he hasn’t even realized that he has crossed her … long before he believes he has met her.

Through the years, Andrew has pined for one woman that took his heart captive. He hasn’t found one woman who can make him feel an ounce of what he felt for his lost Mairi .. that is until he meets Susana. Now, a mystery filled with danger is lingering, and Susana’s life is in real peril. Despite all of this, Susana still goes out of her way to makes Andrew’s life a living hell while smiling during the process. Sounds like a whole lot of nasty, but you see … Susana knows the truth .. all Andrew knows is that she reminds him of woman who a long time ago, got under his skin and into his heart.

This is an amazing, beautiful, humour filled, second chance romance that I couldn’t put down. There are twists and turns in this story, but also moments where you wonder how someone can be so blind and effective all at once. There was a back and forth between Andrew and Susana that made me giggle and think that they certainly would have a very interesting, exciting life ahead of them.

I am not going to give away anymore of this story, but I will tell you, Sabrina York is now one of my fave authors of this genre’s. The story just had a natural flow and there were times that some things were predictable, but there is comfort in that as well. These two deserve their happily ever after .. truely. Secondary characters .. LOVE THEM! So much in fact I am really looking forward to the next book in this series.

HAPPY READING!

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

Reviewed by Rachel T.

 

Excerpt beige

 

Susana was annoyed. There was no doubt about it. The swish of her hips as she led him across the bustling bailey was a dead giveaway, that and the dark glowers she shot over her shoulder. But Andrew couldn’t help but be amused. For one thing, she was damn alluring with she was annoyed.
Hell, she was damn alluring altogether. The curve of her waist alone could drive a man insane, much less that silky tumble of hair. He wanted to wrap it is his fist, wind it around his body. A certain part of his body.
At the thought, his cock rose.
It was difficult to remind himself that he’d vowed to eschew seduction, but try as he might, he couldn’t banish the fantasy of stripping those breeks from her lovely body and laying her down in the heather. Visions of that twitching backside—bare before him—danced in his head.
But he’d made a vow. A sacred vow. And as tempting as she was, he would control his baser urges. He could. Probably.
These thoughts whirled in his head as she led him into the stables, past his men—who were unpacking and seeing to their horses—and through the kennels. Though he was perplexed, Andrew followed. He would probably follow anywhere she led. It was a fact that should have scared him to death or at the very least, concerned him. But it didn’t. However, when she started up a staircase at the very end of the long hall, he had to stop her.
She glared at the hand he set on her arm. He tried to ignore the sizzle that raged through him at their first touch. It was ridiculous how much that touch affected him. And how much he enjoyed her glare.
He edged closer. “Where are we going?” he asked in a purr.
Judging from her frown, his tone irritated her. He rather enjoyed irritating her, he found.
She ripped her arm away and continued up the stairs. He followed and found himself in a narrow loft that ran the length of the kennels. It was dim and a little dusty. Motes danced on the air. The roof was so low he had to duck his head to miss the rafters.
“Your men will stay here,” she said.
Andrew gaped at her. The room was swept clean and empty. A thin shaft of light from the far window illuminated it with a murky light. But the yipping from the kennel and the stench of excrement wafted up from below. For some reason, all thoughts of alluring backsides dissipated. Disbelief gushed through him. “Here?”
She crossed her arms and offered what could only be described as a smirk. “Here.”
He tipped his head to the side. “This is a kennel.”
“I am aware of that.”
“I have twenty-five men.”
“The room is quite large.”
“There are no beds.”
She blew out a breath. “We’ll bring in pallets.”
Andrew blinked. He set his teeth and tried to remain calm. His men were warriors. They did not sleep on pallets. In a kennel. “This will not do.” Surely she saw that. Surely she understood… He caught a glimpse of her smug expression and it dawned on him.
She did. She did understand. She knew damn well what she was doing. Her response only verified his suspicions.
“I’m sorry, but you have descended upon us with no warning whatsoever with a large group of men. I’m afraid this is all we can offer you at this time.” Her smile was deferential, but hardly sincere. The light dancing in her eyes lit a flame in his belly. “Of course, if our accommodations are unacceptable, you can always return to Dunnet…”
Oh, she’d like that, wouldn’t she?
The minx.
Rather than the exasperation her self-satisfied look should have sparked, Andrew found himself filled with another emotion entirely. Anticipation. Exhilaration. The thrill of a challenge.
For that was what she was, Susana Dounreay. A challenge.
And it appeared she reveled in provoking him.
A pity she didn’t understand he was a dangerous man to provoke.
The tumult her presence sparked within him flared again, burning the edges of his resolution; his inconvenient lust blossomed, and with it, an unruly resolve.
He wanted, very badly, to kiss her. He wanted to wrench her into his arms and cover her sweet mouth with his. He wanted to taste her, consume her, possess her.
And he would.
Clearly he wasn’t the kind of man who could swear off women. Clearly he wasn’t the kind of man who could keep a vow.
So be it.
Damn to hell his ridiculous vow.
Damn to hell the fact that she was his sister-in-law.
He was going to seduce this vixen, and he would start right now.
Desire, like a snarling, snapping beast, rose within him, and he stepped closer.
Susana’s eyes flared as Andrew advanced on her, like a skulking fox that had spotted a plump rabbit. She didn’t mean to retreat, but she had to. She’d seen that expression in his eyes before and she knew what it meant. Something within her howled: Run.
Perhaps it was the expression in his eyes, or the knowledge that she was playing with fire, or the sudden realization that she’d foolishly come here, to this deserted loft with the most dangerous man she’d ever met, but she couldn’t still the urge to whirl and pace to the far end of the room to peer out of the smudged window. She was aware he followed. She felt his presence like a fire in a forge.
Desperation prompted her to continue their conversation, to put some space between them, to raise a shield. “The room is perfectly habitable,” she proclaimed. “And once we have pallets brought in, it will serve you well.”
“Will it?”
His voice was low in her ear, a whisper almost. And far too close. She wanted to turn, to confront him, but she knew, if she did, they would be face to face, perhaps lip to lip and she could not allow that. She could never allow that.
The last time he’d kissed her, it had been her undoing.
A pity he didn’t remember.
“My men willna like being housed with the dogs.” Holy God. Was that his hand on her hip? His thumb tracing her waist? “Nae doubt they will all want to find…other beds to welcome them.”
Susana stilled as his words sank in. The threat was clear. And it was rather horrifying. A horde of randy warriors set loose on the innocent maidens of Dounreay? That his hand had slid over to toy with the small of her back, to tangle in the skeins of her hair, didn’t help.
Her pulse thudded and her knees went weak. She couldn’t have it. She couldn’t have this man touching her. She sucked in a breath and slipped to the side, out of his grasp. When she was far enough away for some measure of safety, she turned to face him, a reproachful look fixed on her face. “Are your men so lacking in discipline?” She hoped her frown, her reproving tone, would bring him to heel. She should have known better.
He grinned and stepped closer. His eyes glinted, as though needling her was an amusing sport. “They are verra disciplined…when their needs are met.”
She crossed her arms, as though that could protect her, and pretended to study the room. Pretended she wasn’t aware of his thrumming presence, his heat, his intent. “Well, I shall hold you responsible for any…improprieties.” She took a step toward the staircase, only a tiny one—surely not an attempt to escape.
He chuckled—chuckled, the bastard—making it clear he recognized her cowardice for what it was. And he paced her.
“They’re all good men. They all volunteered to come with me. Each and every one of them is dedicated to the cause of protecting Reay from the villains who have been plaguing you. However…”
The way he trailed off derailed her retreat. She stilled. Glared at him. “However, what?”
“However, they do have…needs. Surely you can find better lodgings.”
She blew out a breath. “In time.” In time.
In time, he would be gone, God willing.
He stepped toward her again, although nonchalantly, as though he were not chasing her across the room. It occurred to her they were engaged in something of a macabre dance. It set her nerves on edge. She hadn’t realized what a long room this was, or how far it was to the stairs.
“Doona leave it too long.” His smile was heinous. It made all kinds of shivers dance over her skin. “My men are…restless.” She had the chilling sense he was talking about himself.
“I shall…do my best.” Like hell. “And now, if you will excuse me, I have things to do.”
His brow quirked. She tried not to notice what a perfect brow it was. “Ah, but I thought you and I could…talk.”
“Talk?” She didn’t intend to squawk, but she could tell from his predatory stance, a conversation was not the primary urge on his mind. At least, not one with words.
He nodded. Though his features were patently earnest, the sincerity was patently affected. “About the defenses you have in place…so I can decide what needs improvement.”
Aggravation rippled. It displaced her concerns about being here, with him, all alone. Fury did that, she’d often found. Overrode common sense and led one into dangerous waters. Her hands curled into fists. She strode toward him until they were nearly nose to nose. “Nothing needs improvement,” she snapped. They didn’t need him. Or his men. Or his stupid ideas.
“Nonsense. Now that we’re here, we intend to make a statement to Stafford, or whatever miscreants are lurking out there thinking Dounreay is an easy target. But before I set my plans in motion—”
“Your plans?” He already had plans? Och! He was so exasperating.
She barely noticed that he stepped closer…until their chests brushed. He was hard and hot; the touch made her tingle. His voice, low and luring made her tingle as well. His gaze skated over her face, then stalled on her lips. “Let’s meet and discuss—”
Her pulse skittered. “I doona have time to meet with you. Not today.” She took a step back. He followed.
“Nae?” A whisper. And his caress over her shoulder, that was a whisper as well. Like a panicked fawn, Susana eased back again. And again. He matched her, step for step.
She swallowed heavily. “I… You have descended upon us with no warning—”
“My brother sent a letter.”
He was too close. Far too close. She swallowed heavily. “Twenty-five men that now need to be housed and fed. On top of that, I have many other duties that need attending.”
He cocked his head to the side. “Which duties?”
“Many duties.” She frowned and glanced toward the staircase. Ah, lord. It was so far… He was too warm. Too broad. Too alluring. Though she didn’t intend to, she took another step back and—
Oh hell. He’d backed her against the wall. That he couldn’t stand straight in the low-ceilinged room was a small consolation.
“Susana,” he said as he leaned closer. His breath was a tantalizing trail over her face.
An unholy thrill snaked through her. Surely that wasn’t anticipation? Hunger? Need?
She could not allow him to kiss her. She could not—
Her knees nearly melted at the touch of his lips. His warmth, his taste, his scent made her mind whirl. Thank God he had his hands on her waist and was holding her steady, or she might well have collapsed.
It occurred to her that she should push him away, fight him, but she couldn’t. Something, something deep within her resisted. Something deep within her needed him. Needed this.
And ah, it was glorious. As glorious as she remembered.
His lips were soft, gentle, questing as they tested hers and then, with a groan, he pulled her closer, melding their bodies together. He deepened the kiss, sealing his mouth over hers and dancing his tongue over the seam.
She opened to him. She couldn’t resist. He filled her senses with his presence, his heat. With tiny nibbles, sucks and laps, he consumed her, enflamed her. All sanity fled. All logic and resolution and anger flitted away as Andrew tasted her, tempted her.
His hands were not still. They roved over her body from her shoulders, down her arms to her waist. They tangled in her hair and stroked her cheek and chin.
Heat blossomed, skittered through her veins. Her body softened, melted, prepared for him.
She should not have responded the way she did. She should not have pressed against him, rubbed against the hard bulge on his belly. She should not have explored the hard flesh of his back, cupped his nape, raked his silken scalp. She should not have moaned.
Surely all these things would only encourage him.
He lifted his head and stared at her, an odd mixture of befuddlement and awe in his eyes. His tongue peeped out and dabbed at his lips, snagging her attention. Surely she didn’t lean toward him in a mute plea for more.
Was she truly so weak?
Aye. She was.


 

Interview beige

TRC:  Hi Sabrina and welcome to The Reading Café.

We would like to start with some background information. Would you please tell us something about yourself?

FROM THE WEBSITE: Her Royal Hotness, Sabrina York, is the New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author of hot, humorous stories for smart and sexy readers. With over 25 titles her books range from sweet & snarky to scorching romance.

TRC: Who or what influenced your career in writing?

Sabrina: I am a rebel and when someone tells me I can’t do something, I have a tendency to do it anyway. So when I was in preschool and they told my mother I would never learn to read (much less write), my fate was set. Add to that, the fact that my Mother’s response was something along the lines of “Oh, hell no!” and the fact that, rather than believing them, rather than treating me like I had no chance, she simply insisted I was a different thinker who marched to the sound of my own drum. We faced my dyslexia together and she helped me figure out ways to cope with and, in fact, exploit, my…unique brain.
Incidentally, I’ve met lots of awesome, successful people who are dyslexic. We tend to be super creative, because we spent our lives solving puzzles. Although I do admit, my spelling isn’t stellar.

TRC: What challenges or difficulties have you encountered writing and publishing your stories?

Sabrina: I think every author struggles in their early years. I “wrote” my whole life but once I decided to finally get serious and seek publication, I was surprised that editors and agents didn’t fall all over themselves to publish me. In fact, I spent years writing and submitting and filing rejections.

While it was frustrating and discouraging, now, looking back, I see that that time was a gift. It allowed me to hone my “voice” and get myself ready to face the challenges that emerge once you are published. It’s not an easy business, even when you have lots of books in publication. There are difficult things to deal with including bad reviews, books that simply don’t sell despite your love of them, and convoluted contract issues. I needed to be ready, emotionally and spiritually. Also, I think it is important to WANT something. To strive for something. When you work for it, you value it.
And I truly value each and every reader.

Susana and the ScotTRC: Would you please tell us something about Susana and the Scot?

Sabrina: Oh my goodness! I had so much fun writing this book! I think it is my favorite of all time! In the story, which picks up where Hannah and the Highlander left off, Andrew Lochlannach has come to Reay to guard his brother’s new lands against hidden enemies. He comes face to face with a woman who reminds him of his lost love…but he is disgruntled when she, Susana Dounreay MacBean, seems determined to drive him back to Dunnet.

As for Susana, she is furious that he is here, that he’s come to invade her perfectly ordered life. Worse, he doesn’t even seem to remember that he once held her, kissed her…and more. She is determined to make him pay!

They come together and the sparks fly!

**READ THE EXCERPT ABOVE THE INTERVIEW**

TRC: How many books do you have planned for the series?

Sabrina: There are three books in this series!

Hannah and the Highlander is out now.

Susana and the Scot comes out December 29th

Lana and the Laird is available for preorder now and comes out in May 2016

Untamed Highlanders series

TRC: Have you ever had the opportunity to visit Scotland or any of the places you have written about in your series?

Sabrina Hates HaggisSabrina: Funny you should ask! I just got back from Scotland. It was amazing! The only thing I didn’t like was the haggis! On the same trip, we stopped in London and I researched Mayfair, Hyde Park and Coven Garden for my Regency Romps!

TRC: How do you keep the plot(s) unpredictable without sacrificing content and believability?

Sabrina: I’ve read thousands of romances and am familiar with all the tropes and typical plots. One of the things I LOVE to do is lead the reader down the garden path…and then throw in a twist. I love to write strong heroines who turn tropes on their ear. Oh, and snark. Did I mention snark?

TRC: There is a fine line between romance, erotic, and erotica in many of today’s popular contemporary fiction. What do you believe accounts for the differences between the sub-genres in today’s romantic stories?

Sabrina: I think Fifty Shades of Grey had a lot to do with shifting the line. Scenes that would never have appeared in a mainstream romance are now commonplace. In my mind, erotica is predominantly about the sexual relationship and does not need that happy ending romance demands and an erotic romance is a story where the plot is driven by the sexual relationship (and turning points are connected to the sexual story development). I tend to write books that are driven by the emotional relationship and therefore consider them non-erotic, but there are always steamy scenes.

TRC: Which genre do you find most difficult to write and why?

Sabrina: Romantic suspense, I think. I don’t write it because I don’t enjoy reading it.

TRC: Do you believe the cover image plays a deciding factor for many readers in the process of selecting a book or new series to read?

Sabrina: Yes. 100%. Absolutely.

TRC: When writing a story line, do the characters direct the writing or do you direct the characters?

Sabrina: It really depends on the story, and how far along I am in the world. Early on, I am totally in charge but as we progress, they become more vocal. I will admit, I have had characters wake me up in the middle of the night and tell me I got it wrong. LOL. Usually when I am stalled, it’s because I am not listening to them!

TRC: The mark of a good writer is to pull the reader into the story line so that they experience the emotions along with the characters. What do you believe a writer must do to make this happen? Where do you believe writer’s fail in this endeavor?

Sabrina: Story is emotion. My job is to evoke emotion in readers. The key is to make the CARE about the characters. That means having people who are three dimensional and REAL on the page. Writers who don’t take the time to set the stage will never touch that reader the way the want to.

TRC: Do you listen to music while writing? If so, does the style of music influence the story line direction? Characters?

Sabrina: I tend to prefer silence, because I am easily distracted, but if I listen to music, it is always classical, because there are no words, but can evoke a lush mood.

TRC: What three things would you like to accomplish in the next five years?

Sabrina: I’ve worked hard to create a diverse platform, but one can always do better, right? I’d really love to continue writing well-received books. I try to have a release a month, so shall we say 50 more books?

There are over 2,000 subscribers on my newsletter list. My goal is 10,000! I would love every romance reader to sign up for my alerts! I share updates, releases and giveaway announcements and have members-only giveaways!

I’ve hit the NYT and USA Today list with several collections… I’d really like to hit it on my own!

TRC: Have you collaborated with any other authors/writers? If not, have you considered such an enterprise?

Sabrina: I am a proponent of author collaboration! I’ve done tons of projects with other authors including collections that have hit the best seller lists, a Kindle Worlds release with Cat Johnson and promotions with other authors! Check out this FREE Sampler I coordinated with 20 of my author friends! Teasers and Tasters: 2015 Romance Author Sampler

I think the key to success in this business (and any business) is relationships! I am honored to have so many amazing author friends!

TRC: Many authors bounce ideas and information with other authors or friends and family. With whom do you bounce ideas?

Sabrina: I have an amazing street team! I will often bounce ideas off them. You can join the conversation on Facebook: HERE. I also have a great critique group who supports me and helps me stay sane!

TRC: What do you believe is the biggest misconception people have about authors?

Sabrina: HAHAHA! That we are all rolling in dough. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve had some excellent months, but I’ve had dismal paydays too. It all depends on what’s happening in the market, on the season, day of the week etc. We control some elements, but not all of them.

Next time you buy a 99¢ collection with 12 stories, think about this…

We upload the book to Amazon. With each sale, we make 30% of the sale price (70% if the price is over $2.99, but for the purposes of this example, let’s say it is a 99¢ book!) That means we receive about 30¢ per sale. Not bad…but the 30¢ needs to be split amongst the 12 authors…and that is AFTER the costs of covers, formatting etc. We’re lucky to make 3¢ per sale.

So why do we do it? Simply to expand our platforms. We all hope readers will buy the collection for their favorite author, read our books and discover how awesome we are. We hope they will all go back and buy our backlist.

Some do. Some don’t.

I love the ones that do! 😀

TRC: What is something that few, if any people, know about you?

Sabrina: I have a Master’s Degree in Public Administration. The day job (I left 2 years ago to write full time) was in government! How boring. See why I LOVE my life now???

TRC: On what are you currently working?

Sabrina: I have about 5 books in progress.

I am writing a sequel to Guard Dog (my Hot SEALs Kindle World book: Hot Seals Guard Dog: Stone Hard Seals 3 )

It is set in Hong Kong (and based on a trip I took there several years ago to meet my adopted sister’s biological family).

I’m working on the sequel to The Real McCoy and Come Hell or High Water (from the Cowboy 12 Pack and 12 Alarm Cowboys, respectively—both NYT Bestsellers). The new collection is called Cowboy Justice League, and I’m writing a cowboy sheriff! You can get updates HERE

On that note, I just signed a 3 book deal with Berkley InterMix for stories set on the Stud Ranch featured in all those books! Titles in the Stripped Bare series are:

STUD FOR HIRE
COWBOY TO COMMAND
SPURRED ON

I’m writing a Regency Romp for the Seven Sinful Nights Anthology

I am editing Trickery for release

I’m working on others I cannot talk about yet. 😀

So yeah. I am busy!

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Sabrina: I absolutely love to interact with readers and encourage you all to follow me, chat and sign up for my newsletter! Here are the links!

Bookshelf! http://sabrinayork.com/books/

Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/bj8tKb

Website: http://sabrinayork.com/

Follow my Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/author/sabrinayork

Tsu: https://www.tsu.co/SabrinaYork

Like my Facebook Author Page https://www.facebook.com/SabrinaYorkBooks

Follow me on Twitter @sabrina_york https://twitter.com/sabrina_york

Follow me on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5817917.Sabrina_York

Check out my Pinterest boards: http://www.pinterest.com/sabrinayork/boards/

Join the conversation on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/SabrinaYorkChatAndContests/

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food: Bacon (Duh!)

Favorite Dessert: Cheesecake (preferably without bacon, thank you)

Favorite TV Show: Ellen

Last Movie You Saw: MI5 with my honey, Jon Snow.

Dark or Milk Chocolate: Seriously? Is there anything other than DARK????

Secret Celebrity Crush: Charlie Hunnam, but it’s not so secret.

Last Vacation Destination: Scotland, London and Paris! My first VACATION in 10 years!

Do you have any pets? YES! We just adopted a Rottie mix named Lola (she’s named for a character in Guard Dog!) and she likes to chew on things.

I have a dog

Last book you read: The Highwayman by Kerrigan Byrne (Awesome)

Pet Peeve: Being added to Facebook groups without my OK…I get 100s of emails a day and NEED Facebook notifications so I can keep up. THESE clog my feed.

TRC: Thank you Sabrina for taking the time to answer our questions. Congratulations on the release of Susana and the Scot

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