Highlander Entangled (Highland Adventure #9) by Vonda Sinclair-Review, Guest Post & Giveaway

Highlander Entangled (Highland Adventure #9) by Vonda Sinclair- Review, Guest Post & Giveaway

HIGHLANDER ENTANGLED
Highland Adventure #9
by Vonda Sinclair
Release Date: December 8,2017
Genre: adult, historical, Highland, romance

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo / iTunes / / Audio /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 8,2017

Lady Kristina MacQueen suffered devastating injuries at the hands of a ruthless Highland chief, Blackburn MacCromar. Two years later, he kidnaps her for a journey across the chilly, windblown Scottish Highlands to flush out her sister, Anna—the woman Blackburn forced to wed him. Red Holme, Blackburn’s second-in-command, is equally brutal and determined to possess Kristina.

A Highland warrior and future chief, Colin Cameron has no intention of becoming entangled in the whims of another highborn lady. However, upon witnessing Lady Kristina being held hostage by the enemy, a knife to her throat, he resolves to rescue her and bring her to safety. When R

ed Holme sees Colin Cameron, he recognizes his enemy from a decade earlier and craves revenge even more than he lusts for the lady. But he is determined to have both.

Colin is the most charismatic and heroic man Kristina has ever met, and he awakens her woman’s instincts. He might be her only chance to experience a brief moment of passion. Even so, she holds no illusions about marriage, for no worthy man will find her blindness and scars appealing, or see them as beneficial traits in a wife. But she can’t see how he looks at her. Though Colin has sworn to never fall in love again, he cannot defend his heart against the strong, spirited and lovely lass who is like none other he has ever met.

••••••••••

REVIEW: 5 out of 5 for this reader folks!

FANTASTIC BOOK! I have not read any of the other books in this series, but I am very eager to dive in and perhaps get some back stories on other characters. I did not feel this took away from any enjoyment I had reading this story, it was very easy to follow.

Highlander Entangled by Vonda Sinclair is the ninth book in the “Highland Adventure” series and let me say one thing … ADVENTURE is the perfect word they could of used. A highland historical romance, you will find yourself completely immersed into the past, where men were gruff, unapologetic, prideful, egotistical, full of revenge, passionate and so much more, and the ladies made sure they have met their match. The side of sexy love completely sold me and solidified my “must read more” attitude for this author.

Lady Kristina McQueen is our leading lady and I completely adore her. She is the kind of character you will be all in with, and your heart will break a hundred times, but you deep down will know she will make it through. She is carrying many scars, both emotional and physical and this has left her blind. She is kidnapped by the man who gave her her scars to try and get to her sister. Kristina possess a strength that I am uncertain many woman can achieve in that time and under these circumstances. She is resigned to what she has been dealt with in life, and believes she is fated to live tortured and lonely. Her attitude isn’t woo is me however, she threw no pity party. She has mourned what she has gone through, but it hasn’t completely consumed her and when her leading man comes into the picture, she doesnt recognize him as her partner, but as a strength she can draw from.

Colin Cameron is the future chief of his clan, and a fierce enemy of the men that have kidnapped Kristina. When he sees her kidnapped he does right by her and gets involved. He saves Kristina from more than physical harm, he saves her from a future of loneliness. Colin is the real deal. He is a good man, cares strongly but is no pushover. He is enchanted by this woman that has crossed his path and while there are certain attributes that a chiefs wife must possess, he doesn’t seem to give two cares about it. He is protective and loving of Kristina, and she openly embraces this caring and love and finds herself returning it.

This book is full of adventure and emotion. You will feel like you have been on the most intense roller coaster ride of your life, and I as an emotional read love that! Vonda is an excellent historical romance author and I say this because she writes vivid images and makes me feel like you have been thrown back in time, living this story with the characters.

I am very interested in reading more from Vonda, and certainly am going to go back and snag this series. I am completely impressed and really looking forward to more!

HAPPY READING! 🙂

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Rachel T.

Researching on Location in Scotland
By Vonda Sinclair

There’s nothing I like better than exploring castle ruins in the remote areas of Scotland. On one such research trip, I drove 25+ miles beyond Glenfinnan with my friends to visit Castle Tioram. We passed through sparsely populated, wild areas with amazing scenic beauty, and drove along narrow winding roads, most of them single track. There were a few houses, crofts, and tiny villages or communities here and there. The drive took twice as long as it should have because we had to stop several times along the way for photo ops. We passed lochs, mountains, and old bridges. We could’ve seen the Jacobite steam train (aka “Hogwarts Express”) if we’d been willing to linger in a certain spot long enough. We didn’t, but we did see the train the next day as it passed over the Glenfinnan Viaduct.
We wanted to get to Castle Tioram (pronounced Cheeram) as quickly as possible. This is a privately owned castle in a dangerously ruinous state. It was unsafe for us to go inside because of the hazards of possible falling stones from the masonry. But what a spectacular location! The castle sits on a small island called Eilean Tioram (meaning ‘the dry island’ in Gaelic) in Loch Moidart near where the River Shiel empties into it.
I had craved visiting this castle for years, from the first time I saw a photo of it online. It had always captured my imagination. I wanted to use it in a story but was unsure how until I started writing My Captive Highlander.

When I was writing a shipwreck (or technically a galley wreck) scene for the story, I thought, okay, where could the hero’s galley crash during the storm and where could he be taken hostage and tossed into the dungeon? It needed to be on the west coast of Scotland somewhere between Inveraray and Isle of Skye. I decided that even though my castle would have a fictitious name, Bearach Castle, I would base it on Castle Tioram, a MacDonald stronghold back through history. And the heroine would be a MacDonald—the chief’s sister. About twenty years earlier in actual history, the hero’s clan, the MacKenzies, had experienced a conflict and a battle with these MacDonalds. Perfect for drama, conflict and action.

I’ve since set two more books there including Highlander Unbroken and, my newest, Highlander Entangled. Highlander Unbroken features the new chief of the MacDonald clan, Neacal, while Highlander Entangled features his friend and foster brother, Colin Cameron, as the hero. All three stories are stand-alone but are linked.
Castle Tioram occupies a place, near the River Shiel, which was strategic for Scotland’s defense centuries ago, because it allowed easy travel by boat toward the Great Glen and the center of Scotland, along Loch Shiel and other inland lochs. Even during the Iron Age, long before the current castle, this site was important. Artifacts from the time have been found. There is also much evidence of Vikings’ presence in the area during medieval times. The beaches around the island would’ve been ideal for sheltering galleys, ships and other boats.

Even though I couldn’t explore the inside of the castle, I walked almost all the way around it. In some areas I was close enough to touch it, but in other areas I had to climb rocks or walk along the sea loch’s shore and view it from a distance. It was a nice, sunny day and I took several hundred photos. Because I was able to explore the rough and rocky terrain around the castle, I could accurately describe it in many of my books’ scenes, including battle scenes. I absolutely love to bring the readers fully into my scenes and make them feel a part of the story.

Vonda Sinclair writes wildly romantic Highland adventures about brave Highland warriors and their unconventional ladies. She takes readers back through the mists of time into a different world—17th century Scotland.

Facebook / Website / Twitter / Bookbub / Amazon Author Page / Newsletter

Vonda Sinclair is the USA Today bestselling author of award-winning Scottish historical romance novels and novellas. Her favorite pastime is exploring Scotland and taking photos along the way. She especially loves ancient castle ruins! She also enjoys writing about hot Highland heroes, unconventional ladies and the healing power of love. Her series are the Highland Adventure Series and the Scottish Treasure Series. Her books have won the National Readers’ Choice Award, the CRW Award of Excellence, the Winter Rose Award of Excellence in Published Romantic Fiction–1st Place Historical, and an EPIC Award. She lives in the mountains of North Carolina where she is crafting another adventurous, wildly romantic Scottish story. Please visit her website at www.vondasinclair.com

Vonda Sinclair is graciously offering a paper copy of MY CAPTIVE HIGHLANDER to ONE lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

1. If you have not previously registered at The Reading Cafe, please register by using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social log-ins.

NOTE: If you are having difficulty commenting after logging onto the site, please refresh the page (at the top of your computer).

2. If you are using a social log-in, please post your email address with your comment.

3. LIKE Vonda Sinclair on Facebook

4. LIKE us on FACEBOOK and then click GET NOTIFICATION under ‘liked’ for an additional entry.

5. LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry.

6. Please FOLLOW us on GOODREADS for an additional entry.

7. Please follow The Reading Cafe on Tumblr

8. Giveaway open to USA  and CANADA only

9.. Giveaway runs from February 18-23, 2018

Share

Searching for Billy Shakespeare by Crista McHugh-a review

Searching for Billy Shakespeare by Crista McHugh-a review

Searching For Billy Shakespeare

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

About the book: Release Date December 26, 2017

Intensely introverted and socially awkward grad student Kate Mireau has loved only one man since she was a little girl.

William Shakespeare.

Unfortunately, he died over four hundred years ago.

Since no modern-day man will ever compete with the Bard’s wit and wisdom, Kate is destined for dissatisfaction in matters of the heart. Besides, any attempt she makes to step out of her comforting world of books usually ends in humiliating disaster. But when she agrees to help her new roommate’s brother prepare for an upcoming audition, she meets a man who makes her pulse race almost as fast as Shakespeare’s insults. ‘Tis said the course of true love never did run smooth, and Kate discovers that Gabe is not an aspiring classical actor—he’s one of Hollywood’s sexiest leading men.

Experience has taught Kate that she’ll just end up embarrassing them both. Will she retreat to her safe world of beloved plays and poetry, consoling herself with the notion that he is a star out of her reach? Or if all the world’s a stage, then maybe Gabe is her chance to find there’s more to life than just words, words, words.

••••••••••••••••

Review:

Searching for Billy Shakespeare begins with Kate’s best friend, Livvy, talking her into going out with her and her girlfriend for the night. Even though Kate resists, she is eventually persuaded. They run by Kate’s apartment, which she shares with her fiancé. Upon entering, Kate’s world crumbles. She takes a little while to lick her wounds and find a new apartment.

Kate responds to an ad for someone searching for a roommate, and to her utter surprise, she is “approved” by her new roomie, Ari. There are stipulations, but Kate jumps at the chance. It doesn’t take long for Kate to receive a call from an unknown number, only to find out it’s Ari’s brother, Gabe, needing some help for an audition that is a little out of his comfort zone: the classics. Kate is a little intrigued, and before long, finds herself waiting anxiously for his next phone call. After a near tragic event involving Ari, Gabe flies to New York. Kate still has no idea exactly who Gabe actually is, which endears her even more to Gabe. They both eventually decide to take their relationship to the next level, albeit slowly. After a series of mishaps, Kate realizes that what she’s been searching for all along is right in front of her………

Oh, how I’ve missed Crista McHugh’s stories. Searching for Billy Shakespeare is a nicely written tale that moves fast from the very beginning. Kate is a loveable, and nerdy, introvert who is more than comfortable with herself. She just has a little trouble being comfortable with others being comfortable with her quirks, and afraid she won’t fit in, especially in Gabe’s world. Gabe is grounded, even though he is very famous. It absolutely adds to his lovability factor that Gideon Kelly (from the Kelly Brothers series by Crista McHugh) is his best friend. I did NOT see that coming, but was a fun bit thrown in by the author for her loyal readers.

Looking for Billy Shakespeare ultimately teaches us that if something looks too good to be true, it may, in fact, be just the opposite and be the best thing ever! If you’re a fan of quick romantic reads, with a bit of humor and relatable characters, you will never go wrong with anything written by Crista McHugh. Searching for Billy Shakespeare is fun, engaging and endearing. I’m hoping we’ll get a follow-up for some of the other characters we met in this one. Well done, Crista McHugh! Very well done!

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Vickie M

Share

When I Saw You by Laura Branchflower-a review

WHEN I SAW YOU by Laura Branchflower-a review

When I Saw You

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 6, 2017

Abandoned by her father at twelve and her husband thirteen years later, Lia Merrick is damaged but resolved not to be a victim. A single mother forced to return to the workplace, she is confident her luck has changed when she obtains an account executive position at Zurtech. When she discovers she is a pawn in a sordid scheme she seeks the counsel of one of the top attorneys in Washington, D.C.

Washingtonian Magazine’s most eligible bachelor, thirty-four year old attorney Joseph Craig, is the illegitimate son of one of the wealthiest men in the country. Raised in the servant’s quarters on a palatial estate in Massachusetts and educated among the elite of New England, Joseph harbors a deep insecurity, which fuels his desire to continually succeed.

As Lia and Joseph’s stories merge the injustices of their pasts will test their ability to move forward together. And as Joseph plots to expose an illegal high-stakes game at the highest levels of corporate America, he will have to decide whether reaching his lifetime goal is worth compromising his principles and betraying the woman he loves.

Laura Branchflower is a compelling new voice in contemporary women’s fiction with believable characters dealing with real life struggles.

•••••••••••••••

REVIEW: WHEN I SAW YOU by Laura Branchflower is the first instalment in the debut author’s erotic, romance series. This is thirty-four year old billionaire attorney Joseph Craig, and divorced, single mother Lia Merrick’s story line.

Told from several third person perspectives including Lia and Joseph WHEN I SAW YOU follows the building relationship between attorney Joseph Craig, and Lia Merrick. Desperate for a job our heroine find’s herself embroiled in a potential lawsuit when the company she worked for misrepresented the position she was hired to perform. Enter Joseph Craig, powerful attorney and the man with whom Lia would fall in love. What ensues is the building romance and love between Lia and Joseph, and the potential fall out when Joseph’s true motives are revealed.

WHEN I SAW YOU is an infinitely detailed and cleverly written story line that follows several paths including the legal battle between our heroine and her ex-husband, and Joseph’s questionable rise to financial success. Our hero battles a lifetime of demons in his pursuit of the almighty dollar but his biggest loss may come at the hands of the woman he loves.

We are introduced to Joseph’s law firm partners: Tony Prossi and Kevin Stuart, as well as Joseph’s ex-girlfriend / model Kathy Paige, and Joseph’s secretary Martha Godfrey; Lia’s five year old daughter Taylor; Lia’s ex-husband Ned Merrick, and his wife Candice; as well as a number of businessmen and clients of Zurtech Enterprises. Tony Prossi’s story line is next in A Sense of Belonging (August 2017)

Laura Branchflower’s debut release is a striking, seductive and intriguing story line that straddles the line between romance and suspense. The premise is flawless in its presentation; the characters are colorful, charismatic and damaged; the romance is passionate, intense and dramatic. WHEN I SAW YOU is a fantastic read with exceptional characters, and a truly original premise but I can’t help but make similar comparisons to a real-life Joseph, and his mother’s secret affair with a well-known politician.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

About the author

Laura Branchflower has a BS in Journalism and a MBA from University of Maryland. An avid hiker and lover of anything outdoors, she lives with her dog Chandler in the suburbs of Washington, DC.

Follow: Website / Facebook /

Share

Wyvern’s Outlaw / Celo’s Quest (Dragons of Incendium) by Deborah Cooke-reviews

Wyvern’s Outlaw / Celo’s Quest (Dragons of Incendium) by Deborah Cooke -reviews

Dragon's of Incendium

________________

Celo's QuestCELO’S QUEST
(The Dragons of Incendium 4.5)
by Deborah Cooke
Release Date: December 26, 2017
Genre: adult, paranormal/fantasy, dragon shifter, romance

ONLY 99¢ Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 26 2017

In this short story, Celo, the hidden prince who understands the language of wild creatures, unearths a forgotten secret. He accepts a challenge and embarks on a quest, seeking the solution to the riddle beyond the forests of Regalia.

Celo’s Quest is included in the print edition of Wyvern’s Outlaw.

•••••

REVIEW: CELO’S QUEST by Deborah Cooke is a short story that falls between Wyvern’s Outlaw and Wyvern’s Angel in the author’s paranormal/ fantasy Dragons of Incendium romance series. Celo (first introduced in Wyvern’s Outlaw) is the hidden prince of Regalia and newly crowned King Venero’s brother.

SOME BACKGROUND: For fans of Cooke’s previous series about dragons, THE DRAGONS OF INCENDIUM is NOT connected to, or a spinoff from, her best selling Dragonfire series. The current series focuses on female dragon shifters of Incendium searching for their ‘HeartKeeper’-their mate- and the ‘Carrier of the Seed’.

Told from third person perspective (Celo) CELO’S QUEST is a short story that reveals some of the background and history of the dragon; their origins and their elemental affinities, and the curse that has all but destroyed the original dragon beast. Our hero Celo, on a quest of his own, will come face to face with, quite possibly, the oldest and only living ‘true’ dragon who offers up his story, in advance of a request of our story line hero.

CELO’S QUEST is a story of reflection; of a history between dragon and man; and curses and magic. The premise is revealing and imaginative with a hint of greater things to come.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Wyvern’s Mate
Nero’s Dream
Wyvern’s Prince
Arista’s Legacy
Wyvern’s Warrior
Kraws’ Secret
Wyvern’s Outlaw
Celo’s Quest

Reviewed by Sandy

______________

Wyvern's OutlawWYVERN’S OUTLAW
( The Dragons of Incendium #4)
by Deborah Cooke
Genre: adult, paranormal / fantasy, dragon shifter, romance
Release Date: November 29, 2017

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 29, 2017

Ryke wants nothing more than to escape the space pirates of the Gloria Furore and go home to his young son. He’s pretended to share their views and has worked his way up the ranks to co-pilot of the Armada Seven, commanded by the most vicious space captain of all. The capture of Princess Anguissa and her ship, the Archangel, is a moment of triumph for his superior—except that Anguissa never plays by anyone’s rules. In a flash of dragon fire, she incinerates most of the crew and takes command of the Armada Seven. Ryke is spared, but he’s not sure why—what plans does the beautiful dragon princess have for his future? And what will she demand to grant his wish of returning home?

•••••••••••

REVIEW: WYVERN’S OUTLAW is the fourth full-length instalment in Deborah Cooke’s adult THE DRAGON OF INCENDIUM sci-fi, paranormal/fantasy series focusing on the twelve royal princesses of Incendium. This is princess Anguissa, and Ryke’s story line. WYVERN’S OUTLAW can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary.

SOME BACKGROUND: For fans of Cooke’s previous series about dragons, THE DRAGONS OF INCENDIUM is NOT connected to, or a spinoff from, her best selling Dragonfire series. The current series focuses on female dragon shifters of Incendium searching for their ‘HeartKeeper’-their mate- and the ‘Carrier of the Seed’.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Ryke and Anguissa) WYVERN’S OUTLAW follows the building but forbidden relationship between Ryke of the planet Centurios, and dragon shifter Princess Anguissa of the planet Incendium, two species who have long considered one another repellent and disgusting-dragons are abominations; and the umbros of Centurios are capable of destroying much more than the body, but the mind and the soul. To save her crew and the volatile cargo they carry in the hold Anguissa sacrifices herself to the captain, of the spaceship the Gloria Furore, but in doing so will meet her future and the Carrier of the Seed. Enter the Armada Seven and Gloria Furore reluctant co-pilot Lieutenant Ryke, and the man with whom Anguissa will fall in love. What ensues is the back and forth voyage of discovery that reveals there is more to Ryke than meets the eye.

Lieutenant Ryke is an outlaw; a captive of the Armada Seven. Six long years held prisoner pretending to agree with his captain’s views our hero has planned and prepared for his eventual escape, an escape that now includes the woman that strangely but quickly calls to his heart. Princess Anguissa never expected to find the ‘Carrier of the Seed, and makes quick work of seducing the man she believes is not, and never will be, her ‘HeartKeeper’ or her happily ever after. On the run and heading back to Centurios, Ryke and Anguissa will ‘share’ memories of the past that bring our couple closer together.

WYVERN’S OUTLAW is a detailed and enthusiastic story line involving space jumping, telepathy, dream walking, and shape shifting; a comprehensive and intricate tale of mortal enemies whose ‘futures’ are destined by nature and DNA. The premise is entertaining and intriguing; the characters are charismatic, colorful and energetic; the romance is fated, seductive and passionate.

Copies supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Share

Micah’s Bride (All The King’s Men #9) by Donya Lynne-a review

MICAH’S BRIDE (All the King’s Men #9) by Donya Lynne-a review

Micah's Bride

ebook is ONLY 99¢ Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO /

About the book: Release Date December 24, 2017

Vampires don’t get married. They mate. But for a human, mating isn’t enough.

Micah is a mated male. To him, that’s all the evidence he needs that he and Sam belong together. But for Sam, a human, it’s not that simple. Haunted by memories of her abusive ex-husband, who she married in a small Vegas chapel without her friends and family present, Sam wants a wedding. Her dream wedding. Complete with the dress, the veil, the bouquet, and something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue. This time, she wants to do it right and put her painful past behind her for good.

Willing to give Sam anything she needs, Micah asks King Bain to help him plan the wedding of the century. If the big wedding with friends and family is what she wants, that’s what he’s going to give her.

And the best part is Sam has no idea.

In Micah’s Bride, you’ll find laughter and tears, along with a look at some of your favorite AKM characters who’ve come to witness the first vampire wedding and share in the festivities. But don’t be fooled, even happy affairs contain their fair share of shop talk, especially with war on the horizon and a roomful of vampire warriors chomping at the bit to take down the enemy. There’s sure to be a few discussions about what’s to come after the honeymoon that you won’t want to miss.

•••••••••••

REVIEW: MICAH’S BRIDE is the ninth instalment (and novella) in Donya Lynne’s contemporary, adult ALL THE KING’S MEN paranormal, romance series focusing on a group of vampire warriors, who work for AKM -a group of elite vampire warriors and mutant vampires brought together to save the humans and rid the world of the drecks- hybrid vampire shape shifters. This is Micah Black and his mate Samantha Garrett’s continuing story. MICAH’S BRIDE can be read as a stand alone but for cohesion and back story I recommend reading the series in order.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Micah and Sam) MICAH’S BRIDE focuses on a day in the life of a warrior vampire as he prepares for the wedding to his human bride. Vampires don’t do weddings but Samantha Garrett is human, and Micah is h*ll bent on giving his mate everything that she wants. With a ‘secret’ wedding on the horizon, all of the AKM vampires, their mates and the notorious King Bain want in on the surprise.

MICAH’S BRIDE also take a quick look at Trace’s ‘calling’-the male vampire’s equivalent of going into ‘heat’; and the potential fall out between Arion and Severin when Micah’s makes Arion an offer he can’t resist, to join his team of Black Ops, to ferret out the man who almost destroyed his life.

MICAH’S BRIDE is a quick read; an endearing and heartfelt look at the vampires we love; at one male’s promise to the woman he loves; and another male’s realization that he wants it all. The premise is charming and captivating; the characters are familiar, colorful and bewitching; the romance is energetic. Donya Lynne adds another dimension to her superbly written and wonderfully animated series about vampires and the women (and men) they love.

Reading Order and previous reviews
Rise of the Fallen ebook is FREE at Amazon
Heart of the Warrior
Micah’s Calling
Rebel Obsession
Return of the Assassin
All the King’s Men-The Beginning
Bound Guardian Angel
Black
Micah’s Bride

Own a copy

Reviewed by Sandy

About The Author beige

FOLLOW: Website / Blog / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads / Newsletter | BookbubInstagramPinterest |

donya lynneDonya Lynne is the bestselling author of the award-winning All the King’s Men Series and a member of Romance Writers of America. Making her home in a wooded suburb north of Indianapolis with her husband, Donya has lived in Indiana most of her life and knew at a young age that she was destined to be a writer. She started writing poetry in grade school and won her first short story contest in fourth grade. In junior high, she began writing romantic stories for her friends, and by her sophomore year, she’d been dubbed Most Likely to Become a Romance Novelist. In 2012, she made that dream come true by publishing her first two novels and a novella. Her work has earned her two IPPYs (one gold, one silver) and two ELit Awards (one gold, one silver) as well as numerous accolades. When she’s not writing, she can be found cheering on the Indianapolis Colts or doing her cats’ bidding.

Share

Moon Bound (LaRue #4) by Donna Grant-Review & Excerpt Tour

MOON BOUND (LaRue #4) by Donna Grant-Review and Excerpt Tour

Moon Bound Banner

MOON BOUND
LaRue #4
by Donna Grant
Release Date: December 26, 2017
Genre: adult, contemporary, paranormal, romance

Moon Bound

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 26, 2017

HIS CURSE TO BEAR

Enigmatic and strong-willed werewolf Kane LaRue realizes the benefits of doing things in a pack. But not this time. He feels responsible for the additional terror a Voodoo priestess has leveled on his family, and has vowed to stop at nothing to end her reign of terror. He almost had Delphine once, and this time, he’s promised himself that he will succeed in wiping her from the face of the earth—or die trying. But when her followers almost destroy him, Kane is forced to accept the help of a stunning and fiercely independent woman who makes Kane re-evaluate what’s important…and listen to his heart.

HER WILL TO SURVIVE

Elise is a survivor, but because of the tragic events of her past, she has chosen to live out her days in the bayou, helping the animals she loves and giving back as much as she can to the community that literally saved her life. When a gorgeous dog she tries to save turns out to be so much more, Elise is compelled to let someone in—and faces things about herself she isn’t entirely comfortable with. But the breathtakingly handsome shifter makes her feel things she hasn’t experienced in ages, and she soon realizes that she needs Kane’s help as much as he needs hers. Together, they are unstoppable, and if they’re lucky, they just might rid the world of the evil that has plagued New Orleans for much too long.

••••••••••

REVIEW: MOON BOUND is the fourth and final instalment in Donna Grant’s contemporary, adult LaRUE paranormal, romance series focusing on the LaRue family of Louisiana- a spin off from the author’s CHAISSON series. This is werewolf Kane LaRue, and veterinarian Dr. Elise’s story line. MOON BOUND can be read as a stand alone but I recommend reading the series in order for cohesion and backstory as there is an on-going premise through out as it pertains to voodoo priestess Delphine, who has cursed the siblings as werewolves, in an attempt to seek out and destroy other supernatural powers.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Elise and Kane) MOON BOUND is the culmination of several story line and two series that follows Kane LaRue, the remaining unmated LaRue sibling, as he hunts for the voodoo priestess who killed his parents, and destroyed their lives. Under attack from Delphine’s minions, Kane will be rescued and nursed back to health by the local veterinarian, a woman with whom he would fall in love. What ensues is the building romance between Kane and Elise, and the potential fall out as Kane goes rogue to destroy take down the priestess, once and for all.

Elise is a woman whose physical scars are matched by the emotional turmoil of an attack years before. Alone in the Bayou of Louisiana, Elise is the local animal doctor who is about to come across a species she knows nothing about. Kane LaRue isn’t looking for a mate but finding Dr. Elise triggers the beast, and his desire to mate but mating is the last thing on his mind as the couple find themselves surrounded at all times by the priestess’s own pack of evil werewolves.

The relationship between Elise and Kane slow to develop as our heroine continues to nurse Kane LaRue back to health. Our hero is determined to kill the voodoo creature that destroyed all of their lives but in doing so intends to sacrifice himself to save the siblings he left behind. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

All of Kane’s siblings and his cousin Riley play secondary and supporting characters. We are introduced to Babette, a woman who aided our heroine when she needed it the most; Ed Perkins, an elderly gentleman who knows more than he is letting on; and the requisite evil voodoo priestess Delphine who has crossed over between two series and finally meets her match.

MOON BOUND is a quick read with a bit of a twist; a novella length story line that focuses on the final showdown between good and evil. The premise is charming but the rush to the finish was a bit disappointing; the romance is enticing; the characters are colorful and dynamic. MOON BOUND and the LaRue Series are perfect for lovers of the paranormal romance story lines involving shifters, magic and happily ever afters.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

excerpt

Vicious growls yanked her from sleep. Elise sat up so fast, she knocked Mr. Darcy off her stomach. A look outside showed a pack of dogs attacking an animal.
She rushed to the door and banged her hands on the doorjamb to break up the fight, but none of the animals heard her over the commotion. Then she spotted black fur and realized the pack was attacking the black dog she’d seen before.
The danger didn’t even enter her mind when she grabbed the shotgun from atop her fridge and rushed from the house into the rain. She yelled, but nothing seemed to get the dogs’ attention. Then she fired off a shot into the ground, not to hit the animals, but to hopefully scare them off.
It worked. At least, it did at first. Then a few of the dogs returned to the black one.
“Get out of here!” she yelled and aimed the gun towards the pack, firing into the ground again.
She didn’t want to kill any of the animals, but she would if they didn’t give her a choice. Thankfully, after the second shot, they ran off into the woods.
Elise shook the water from her face but kept her gaze on the woods in case the pack returned. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw the black dog collapse. She’d known he was large, but up close, he was massive. By the look of him, he had some wolf in him.
Yet the longer she looked, the more wolf she saw in his features. But that couldn’t be right. Wolves weren’t native to the area. After her months spent at a wolf conservatory, she knew the animals, and she was looking at a damn wolf.
After several minutes of quiet, she glanced around for any sign of the others. The animal was unconscious, his breathing shallow, and wounds all over him.
She couldn’t leave him out there since she needed to tend to his injuries, but getting a wolf into her house and the room she worked out of would be difficult. Not to mention that if he woke, she might not make it out of the situation alive.
Since she didn’t know the extent of his wounds, she didn’t want to give him a tranquilizer. Which left her few options.
Elise was about to go in and call someone for help when she happened to glance at the water. The rain had caused her to miss the slight ripples, but she spotted the eyes of a gator as it swam toward them. She glanced at the wolf and saw that his back legs were in the bayou.
“Well, shit,” she said and set down her gun to grab hold of him beneath his shoulders to pull his body out of the water and safely onto land, far enough away that hopefully, the alligator wouldn’t follow. She saw the blood pooling from wounds on his back leg that had filled the water with smells the gator couldn’t resist.
She took a chance and continued backing up toward her porch, glancing over her shoulder to check on her progress every few seconds—not to mention keeping an eye on the wolf while praying he didn’t wake and bite her.
When she finally reached the side door that she had put in to lead into the second bedroom that she’d converted for her work, she gently released the animal and leaned against the house for a second to catch her breath before rushing to get her gun.
She was soaked—with both rain and sweat. The wolf was incredibly heavy. She had no idea how she was going to get him up the steps and into the house without waking him.
After taking a few gulping breaths to calm her racing heart, she knew she had to do something before the wolf woke. Elise opened the side door and leaned her gun against the wall as she looked around for anything she could use to get him inside.
Her shoes slipped on the floor, causing her to bang into the stainless steel table. She winced and pushed the button on the side to lower it to the floor. Then she rushed back outside. It would be so much easier if someone were there to help her carry the animal inside.
She was reaching for the wolf when a howl split the air. Elise stood frozen, chills racing over her skin. A moment later, several more howls joined the first. By the sound of them, the pack had surrounded her house.
Swallowing, she lowered her gaze to the animal at her feet. This wasn’t her first time working on wild creatures. She’d gone to Montana to help the local wolf sanctuary with the animals for several summers, also helping the ones roaming the wilderness.
But she was never alone.
After so many years working on farm animals and pets, Elise found her hands shaking. She fisted them and took a deep breath. She could do this, but she had to move quickly because when the animal woke, he would tear through everything.
She bent to grab the animal when the fur began to recede—replaced by skin. Before her eyes, the black wolf changed into a man.
Startled, Elise stepped backward. Her heel caught the edge of the steps, and she began to fall. She waved her arms to right herself, but the next thing she knew, she was on the ground with rain pounding her face.
She hurriedly rolled onto her side and looked at the wolf/man. Thankfully, he was still unconscious.
A howl, closer than any of the others, caused her to jerk in fear. She jumped up and hooked her arms beneath the man’s arms and unceremoniously pulled him inside the house.

About The Author Black and Blue

donna_grant_newDonna Grant is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the sizzling Dark King series featuring dragons, immortal Highlanders, and the Fae.

She was born and raised in Texas but loves to travel. Her adventures have taken her throughout the United States as well as to Jamaica, Mexico, and Scotland. Growing up on the Texas/Louisiana border, Donna’s Cajun side of the family taught her the “spicy” side of life while her Texas roots gave her two-steppin’ and bareback riding.

Despite deadlines and voracious reading, Donna still manages to keep up with her two children, four cats, and one long haired Chihuahua.

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Newsletter SignUp / Tumblr / Pinterest / GoodReads

Social Butterfly PR

Share

Come Home With Me (Blue Moon Harbor #2) by Susan Fox-Review, Guest Post & Giveaway

Come Home With Me (Blue Moon Harbor #2) by Susan Fox-Review, Guest Post & Giveaway

Come Home With Me Banner

COME HOME WITH ME
Blue Moon Harbor #2
by Susan Fox
Release Date: December 26, 2017
Genre: adult, contemporary, romance

Come Home With Me

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

About the book: Release Date December 26, 2017

It may be a dot in the Pacific Northwest, but tiny Blue Moon Harbor always has room for love . . .

Miranda Gabriel has finally hit rock-bottom. As a high-school drop-out, she fled Blue Moon Harbor and her shattered family life, and chased after love in all the wrong places. But now, as a single mom, her priority is her two-year-old daughter. Her only choice is to swallow her pride and return to the island she’s always hated. At least between working and studying, she’ll be too busy for romance–especially when the prospect is a nice guy, exactly the kind she knows she doesn’t deserve…

The island veterinarian, Luke Chandler is a widower raising four-year-old twin boys. In high school, he found bad girl Miranda fascinating–and though life has changed them both, he’s still intrigued. Luke has known true love, and something about Miranda makes him long to experience it again. Yet he’s wary of opening himself, and his boys, to hurt. But his heart may not give him a choice. And together, maybe he and Miranda can give each other the courage to believe in themselves, and to embrace a promising new future . . .

••••••••••••

Review: Come Home with Me begins with Miranda trying to find her place in the world, and on Destiny Island. She along with her daughter, Ariana, had no choice but to come back to the island and accept the help that her brother offered. Miranda had always tried to make it on her own, but it became harder once she became a single mom. Although she and her brother, Aaron, have always been close, she can’t help but feel a little jealous at how his life had turned out. Newly engaged to Eden, Miranda couldn’t help but worry about her place in Aaron’s life. It had always been Miranda and Aaron against the world, and she just didn’t know if she would ever fit into the family that he was building. Determined to get an education and make a better life for herself and Ariana, dating was the last thing she was interested in….

Luke Chandler had tragically lost his wife four years earlier. Raising twin boys and his vet practice had always been his priority, but a chance encounter with Miranda at a store in which she worked left him intrigued. Luke and Miranda had gone to school together, but were never really friends. She seemed nothing like she’d been in high school, but he decided that maybe, just maybe, it was time to test the dating waters. Even though Miranda initially resisted, they decided to hang out with their kids as friends.

Miranda wants to take things slow. She’s never been lucky in the dating world, having made one bad choice after another, but she finds herself drawn to Luke, which gives her something she’s never really felt before…..hope. As she and Luke navigate a budding relationship, doubt gets in the way for them both.

Come Home with Me is a great addition to the Blue Moon Harbor series. Miranda, whom we meet in the first book of the series, is a nicely written character. She’s so defeated when she arrives on the island. Her life has never been easy and she has trouble accepting help from her brother, let alone all of the extended family opening their hearts and homes to her. Luke is great character as well. His sense of loyalty and honor leaps off the page as you read his story. His devotion to his family will endear him to you as he tries to bring Miranda into the fold. I also loved that the two of them had to work on their relationship and figure out exactly what they wanted from each other. The secondary characters are nicely written as well. This series, at least for me, is an emotional one. It’s a story filled with real life feelings and situations. Come Home with Me is ultimately a story of redemption and realizations that yes, you are good enough to be happy. Well done, Susan Fox! Very well done!

Reading Order and Previous review
Fly Away With Me
Come Home With Me

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Vickie M

Guest post

Characters We Care About

Hi there, Reading Café readers! Thanks for sharing time with me today.

I was just listening to an award-winning author being interviewed on the radio. She was asked why readers feel so passionate about her books. She said it’s because they have empathy for the characters. They care about them, even if those characters aren’t perfect.

And I thought, yes! That’s exactly it for me, too. It’s about being drawn in deeply, emotionally, getting personally invested in a character’s life, so you care about what happens to her or him.

I’m sure each author has her/his own process for creating that kind of character. Some authors want to know pretty much everything about their heroine and hero before they start to write. Not me. I’m an organic writer, which means the story and characters develop as I write. It’s not particularly efficient, because it means a lot of going back and revising, but there’s a wonderful sense of discovery that keeps me enthusiastic about writing.

Some authors do detailed character profiles, including things like what they eat for breakfast and who taught them in first grade. Nope, not me. Not unless those details are important to the story. For me, what’s key is this: Who is this person today, and what experiences went into making her/him that way?

Character development, or maybe the better word is evolution, works a bit differently for me with each book. For example, if it’s the first in a series, I’m creating characters from scratch. But in the case of Come Home With Me, I already knew some things about the heroine, Miranda Gabriel, because she was a secondary character in my first Blue Moon Harbor book, Fly Away With Me. She’s the hero Aaron’s younger half-sister, a single mom with a two-year-old daughter. I knew about her and Aaron’s dysfunctional childhood, and how it had damaged them. I knew Miranda was fiercely proud, but that she hit rock bottom (in Fly Away With Me) and, for the sake of her daughter, was forced to accept her brother’s offer of assistance. That meant returning to Destiny Island, a place she hated.

So I had a good start on Miranda, and knew she’d evolve further as I wrote the book. As for the hero, Luke Chandler, I knew only a little. He was the widowed father of twin boys, and he was a veterinarian. I had a lot more “evolving” to do with Luke, as I wrote!

But for me, that’s the fun of it. As I work on a book, I think about family background, love lives, careers, friendships, community, all the things that make for a three-dimensional character, one whose thoughts and feelings ring true for the reader. One the reader can root for.

Luke turned out to be more “perfect” than Miranda, but perfect is boring so of course he needed some hangups. One was whether his love for his deceased wife would prevent him from moving forward. And then, at least three-quarters of the way through the first draft, I had one of those “aha” moments when a deeper level of his character revealed itself to me and I discovered another hangup.

Miranda was definitely not perfect. Luke refers to her as a “rosebud with thorns,” and yes, she’s plenty prickly. But her prickles are rooted in a very troubled past. As I wrote, I learned the details of that past, and the full significance of her dragon tattoo and the secret it hides.

I have a degree in psychology, and sometimes it seems to me that, with my characters, I almost play the role of counsellor as much as that of author. I listen to what they say and don’t say, I ask them questions, I reflect on how they’ve been influenced by the past, I come to know their values and philosophy of life. I learn what they fear most, as well as their secret dreams. Writing is a process of creation, but also a process of revelation. Sometimes I’m in charge, analyzing personality traits and doing research, and sometimes my characters are in charge, guiding my fingers as I type.

For me, writing is an intellectual process and it’s also an instinctive, intuitive one. And did I mention, it’s fun? As well as challenging, sometimes frustrating, and often stressful. But it’s worth every minute, when my characters come alive to me and to readers. When they’re as multi-dimensional as real live people. When their joys and sorrows tug at our heartstrings because we’re so invested in their personal journeys.

Yes, for me it’s all about character. It’s all about emotion.

How about for you, as a reader? What makes for a book that resonates with you, one that stays in your heart and your mind?

about the author

Susan FoxFollow Susan: Facebook / Goodreads / Website / Pinterest / Amazon / BookBub

International bestselling author Susan Fox, who also writes as Susan Lyons and Savanna Fox, “knows what women want in contemporary romance” (Publishers Weekly). Her books have won numerous awards and Love Somebody Like You: A Caribou Crossing Romance was a RITA® finalist. Her latest series is Blue Moon Harbor, from Kensington Zebra. A resident of both Victoria and Vancouver, British Columbia, Susan has degrees in law and psychology, but would far rather be writing fiction than living in the real world. Visit her at susanlyons.ca (where you can subscribe to her newsletter) and on Facebook.com/SusanLyonsFox.

Giveaway

Susan Fox is graciously offering a signed, paper copy of COME FLY WITH ME to ONE (1) commenter at The Reading Cafe. Giveaway is open INTERNATIONALLY

1. If you have not previously registered at The Reading Cafe, please register by using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social log-ins.

NOTE: If you are having difficulty commenting after logging onto the site, please refresh the page (at the top of your computer).

2. If you are using a social log-in, please post your email address with your comment.

3. Follow Susan Lyons Fox on Facebook.

4. LIKE us on FACEBOOK and then click GET NOTIFICATION under ‘liked’ for an additional entry.

5. LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry.

6. Please FOLLOW us on GOODREADS for an additional entry.

7. Please follow The Reading Cafe on Tumblr

8. Giveaway is open INTERNATIONALLY

9. Giveaway runs from December 28, 2017-January 2, 2018

Share

The Duke of Ice (The Untouchables #7) by Darcy Burke-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

The Duke of Ice (The Untouchables #7) by Darcy Burke-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

Duke of Ice Banner

THE DUKE OF ICE
The Untouchables #7
by Darcy Burke
Release Date: December 26, 2017
Genre: adult, historical, romance

The Duke of Ice

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / iBooks / Chapters Indigo /

Everyone Nicholas Bateman ever loved has died. Except Violet Caulfield, which must mean he never loved her. Nine years after she threw him over to marry a viscount, Nick is a widowed duke who prefers isolation. When a friend convinces him to leave his lair of self-imposed solitude, he considers taking another wife, provided she agrees to his terms: no emotional attachment of any kind.

Now widowed, Lady Violet Pendleton hopes for a second chance with the man she’s always loved. But she isn’t prepared for the desolation in his soul or the animosity he still bears toward her. Despite those obstacles, it’s clear their passion hasn’t dimmed. However, the heat between them isn’t enough to melt the Duke of Ice, and this time Violet may find herself the jilted party. Can love, once so tragically lost, finally be found?

••••••

REVIEW:5 out of 5 for this reader folks!

So usually this far into a series one sometimes thinks, “ok 7th book this is getting a little old!” .. NOT THIS SERIES! Each book gets better and better and this novel was no exception. I think this one may be my fave yet!

The Duke of Ice by Darcy Burke is the 7th book of her “The Untouchables” series. A regency romance, this story follows the past and present of two people who once had it all, became jilted and are trying to find their way back to one another without ever thinking there was a possibility of second chances. OR the desire for second chances.

Nicholas Bateman is a Duke, and commonly nicknamed “The Duke of Ice” and for good reason. He use to be a loving kind man but his past has created a recluse, frosty character with so much deep down pain it’s near impossible to break through his defences. He has given up on life, friends, and for certain, given up on love. He is now widowed and he comes across as hateful and soulless, but deep down you know he has the most love of any of the Dukes in this series, and that love is so pure. He is not an easy character to love, but let me tell you if you open up to the possibility of warming to him, you will love him as much as I did. He has been jilted in his past and dealt with trauma. When his one and only friend turns up and tells him to get his rear end out the door and join him for a house party, he doesn’t realize this is an opportunity to face the core of his troubles .. a beautiful woman.

Violet Pendleton is a Lady of her times, beautiful, strong willed when need be, hopeful yet has struggled internally herself. Having fallen madly in love with Nick years ago, her family had serious issue and shipped her away to marry another. Heartbroken, she never forgot the one man she desperately wanted, and after a unhappy marriage, she finds herself widowed and now facing the man of her past at a house party … Nick.

These two have a rough story let me tell you. It’s truely heartbreaking. It turns out when Violet was forced to leave Nick, there was a note of explanation but it never reached Nick. All these years there has been a harboured resentment, one that surfaces when these two cross paths. Through all the discord, there is still a deep love, but both must work through their personal issues and learn to forgive the other for mistakes made. Always does sound easier than it actually is, and these two go through a whole hell of a lot more heartache before they finally decide to get their you know what together and make it work.

Such an emotional read, which is why I liked it so much, but hard to read a book like this when I am feeling the Christmas happy. There were times that Nick came a cross way too harsh but I understood the reason and maybe because I felt connected to these characters did I have more patience for it. Violet is lovely. I found myself feel more sorry for her than anyone else in this series. She strived to be so happy but it was always pushed a little further away everytime she had it in her grasp.

Once again, Darcy writes not just a superb story but gives us vivid imagery and a steady paced story. Loved seeing some old book friends again and I have to say I consider it a treat to be thrown back in time in her books. She writes so well that it makes me want to jump back and test the time out!

Great holiday grab, but please do read the previous books of the series to get the full appreciation. You could read this as a stand alone, but why deprive yourself of more fantastic stories. LOL

HAPPY READING!

Reading order and previous reviews
The Forbidden Duke
The Duke of Daring
The Duke of Deception
The Duke of Desire
The Duke of Defiance
The Duke of Danger

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Rachel T.

Excerpt

“Looks like it’s you and Lady Pendleton,” Simon said. His voice carried a hint of something.
Nick snapped his head toward his friend and detected the glimmer of a smile in his gaze. He was enjoying this. He was playing matchmaker. And he had his sights set on Nick and Violet. Bloody hell.
Nick wanted to be angry, but his pull toward Violet was too strong. He’d felt it last night and again today when Simon had asked if it would be odd for him to pursue her. Nick had been jealous. Shockingly, blood-boilingly, desperately jealous.
The realization shook him to the core.
“Who’s to be the crier?” Simon asked.
“Why not Mr. Adair since he won Kiss the Nun?” Seaver suggested.
With everyone in agreement, Violet and Nick moved to the center of the room.
“Is this awkward?” she whispered.
“No.” His pulse quickened. Should he kiss her or should he fail?
His mind screamed the latter. And really, that was for the best. Jealousy aside, he and Violet had no future, not when their past was so painful.
And yet when they knelt with their backs to each other, he caught her scent of rose and an earthy spice. It was wholly feminine yet slightly wild. He hadn’t smelled a rose in the past eight years without thinking of her. His body reacted, heating at her proximity.
“Make ready,” Adair said.
Nick looked over his right shoulder and felt the air move as she looked over her left.
“Present.”
Nick leaned close to her cheek. He could feel her warmth, and his skin tingled.
“Fire.”
He moved closer, but she sprang up. Instinctively, he reached for her, his arm curling about her waist. He pulled her back down. To stop her from hitting the floor, he spun to his back and sprawled, bringing her down on top of him. He cupped the side of her face and kissed her, his lips sliding over hers for a brief but delicious moment.
“The cheek,” she murmured, her gaze locked with his.
He leaned up and brushed his mouth against the soft flesh of her cheek. His lips lingered perhaps a second too long, but he didn’t care. Desire coursed through him, and for the first time in years, he felt alive.

 

About The author

Darcy BurkeDarcy Burke is the USA Today Bestselling Author of hot, action-packed historical and sexy, emotional contemporary romance. A native Oregonian, Darcy lives on the edge of wine country with her guitar-strumming husband, their two hilarious kids who seem to have inherited the writing gene, and three Bengal cats. Visit Darcy online at www.darcyburke.com and sign up for her newsletter, follow her on Twitter at twitter.com/darcyburke, or like her Facebook page, www.facebook.com/DarcyBurkeFans.

Connect:

 

Site: www.darcyburke.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/DarcyBurkeFans
Twitter: twitter.com/darcyburke
Goodreads: www.goodreads.com/author/show/5823441.Darcy_Burke

Rafflecopter Giveaway

NOTE: The Reading Cafe is NOT responsible for the rafflecopter giveaway. If you have any questions, please contact the tour provider

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Social Butterfly PR

Share