Tag Archives: 1001 Dark Nights

Vampire (Dark Protectors 12.5) by Rebecca Zanetti-Review Tour

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Vampire (Dark Protectors 12.5-Rebels / 1001 Dark Nights) by Rebecca Zanetti-Review & Excerpt Tour

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 13, 2021

Dr. Mariana Lopez has finally stopped bailing friends out of difficult situations. Well, except for substituting as the leader for another anger management group, pitching in as a campaign strategist for a prospective sheriff, and babysitting three dogs. Even with such a full life, she can feel the danger around her—a sense that something isn’t right. Nightmares harass her, until the real thing comes to life, and only the dark and sexy male sitting in her group can save her. However, with safety comes a price she might not be willing to pay.

Raine Maxwell is one of the Maxwells out of Montana, which means he’s not only one of the most deadly vampires alive, but his path is set and his mate has been chosen for him. To save him—to continue his line. Unfortunately, his mate is an enhanced human female who has no idea of her abilities, of his species, or of her future. He’d like to lead her gently into this new world, but his people aren’t the only ones who’ve found her, which puts her into more danger than she can imagine. Plus, in order to follow his laws, he only has one week to convince her that immortality with him is what she wants—and needs.

**Every 1001 Dark Nights novella is a standalone story. For new readers, it’s an introduction to an author’s world. And for fans, it’s a bonus book in the author’s series. We hope you’ll enjoy each one as much as we do.**

••••••••

REVIEW:VAMPIRE by Rebecca Zanetti is instalment 12.5 in Rebecca Zanetti’s contemporary, adult DARK PROTECTORS/ REBELS erotic, paranormal romance series, and the latest entry in the multi-authored 1001 Dark Nights series. This is four hundred year old, vampire Raine Maxwell, and psychologist Dr. Mariana Lopez’s story line. VAMPIRE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous instalments is revealed where necessary. The current arc of the series focuses on former/current members of Dr. Lopez’s anger management group, most of whom are not quite human.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Mariana and Raine) VAMPIRE follows the building romance and relationship between Mariana Lopez and Raine Maxwell. Mariana Lopez has a stalker, and finds herself a prisoner alongside Raine Maxwell, a former member of her anger management group but from the outset it looks like Raine may be a part of our heroine’s problem. When things begin to escalate, Raine becomes as much as a victim but a victim who isn’t helpless when Mariana’s life is threatened. Raine knows that Mariana is his mate but refuses to tie her to a potential life on the run, a life that is threatened by otherworldly beings, and the possibility that Raine will not be around for the long haul. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Mariana and Raine, and the potential fall-out as Mariana’s stalker is determined to claim our heroine as his own.

VAMPIRE is a story of obsession, power, fate and love. We are reintroduced to vampire/demon and assassin/mercenary Noah Siosal, and Abby Miller; detective Evan McConnell, and his fiancé purebred demoness Tabitha (Tabi); Deputy Baker and his son Johnny. The premise is engaging and intriguing; the romance is seductive and hot; the characters are energetic, and powerful.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Fated
Claimed
Tempted
Hunted
Consumed
Provoked
Twisted
Shadowed
Tamed
Marked
Teased
Tricked
Tangled
Talen
Vampire’s Faith
Demon’s Mercy
Vengeance
Alpha’s Promise
Hero’s Haven
Vixen
Guardian’s Grace

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

 

Mariana tried to swallow and wet her suddenly dry throat. Having him near was too much for her libido, and if the guy had any idea of the dreams he’d starred in lately, he’d probably blush. Well, maybe. Something told her that Raine didn’t blush. “Why did you leave town?” she asked.
One of his brows arched. How could a freakin’ eyebrow look sexy? “The job was done.”
Ouch. Okay. Well, then. He’d only been there for the job of watching Ivar and Noah. “Then why did you come back?” She looked away from him.
His sigh was long-suffering and didn’t tell her a thing. “That’s a long story, and I can’t go into it.”
“Seriously?” She whipped around to face him. “Are you kidding me? You show up on my porch, get kidnapped, admit you were in my group under false pretenses, take off for Montana, and then return without being able to explain why? Oh, I don’t think so. Either you start talking right now or you get the heck out of my house.” The place already seemed smaller and somehow safer with him in it, but she knew better than to start depending on him. He’d be gone again soon.
His eyes flared in a way that didn’t even look human. “I’m out of here the second we find this guy.”
Yikes. Okay. That hurt a little bit. She’d thought she’d gotten an interested vibe from him a couple of times, but maybe she’d misread him? He was the sexiest man she’d ever been this close to in real life, so maybe he went for perfection like Tabi Rusko? Mariana was fine with her curves and looks, but maybe she’d overestimated Raine’s interest when he’d thrown Johnny Baker up against the wall after the kid had insulted her. “I think you should leave.”
“No.”
Heat flashed up her spine to tingle at her nape. “No? Are you joking?”
“No.” He cocked his head, watching her.
She had the strongest urge to punch him again, but her wrist still ached from last time. The guy had abs of solid rock. “I don’t think you’re understanding me,” she gritted out.
He moved toward her without warning, pivoting and putting her back against the wall. “You’re not understanding me.” His big body loomed over her, and an unexpected heat rolled off him. 


 

New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author Rebecca Zanetti has worked as an art curator, Senate aide, lawyer, college professor, and a hearing examiner – only to culminate it all in stories about Alpha males and the women who claim them. She writes contemporary romances, dark paranormal romances, and romantic suspense novels.
Growing up amid the glorious backdrops and winter wonderlands of the Pacific Northwest has given Rebecca fantastic scenery and adventures to weave into her stories. She resides in the wild north with her husband, children, and extended family who inspire her every day—or at the very least give her plenty of characters to write about.

Website * Twitter * Facebook * Amazon * Goodreads

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Dare to Tease (Dare Nation 4.5) by Carly Phillips-Review Tour

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Dare to Tease (Dare Nation 4.5 / 1001 Dark Nights) by Carly Phillips-Review Tour

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 23 , 2021

She handles cocky jocks for a living, but her love life isn’t as successful.
Brianne Prescott, publicist for Dare Nation Sports Agency, grew up the only girl with four brothers, three of whom are sports royalty. She’s a pro not just at work but at being used by men who want access to her famous family. She’s learned the hard way that everyone wants something from her, always.

He’s her brother’s best friend and the first man who sees her for who she really is.
When Dr. Hudson Northfield rescues Bri from a homeless man outside the clinic where he works, he really notices her for the first time. Soon she’s accompanying him to New York for a family wedding, and despite her siblings’ overprotective protests, they’re falling in love.

But Hudson has a secret he can’t reveal. If he wants access to a trust fund in his name, his father demands something in return. Hudson has to marry and provide an heir or his dream of opening a state-of-the-art health center will be destroyed. Suddenly the man who didn’t need anything from her appears to be the biggest user of them all. Unless Hudson can convince her he can live without money but he can’t live without her.

**Every 1001 Dark Nights novella is a standalone story. For new readers, it’s an introduction to an author’s world. And for fans, it’s a bonus book in the author’s series. We hope you’ll enjoy each one as much as we do.**

••••••

REVIEW:DARE TO TEASE is instalment 4.5 in Carly Phillips’ contemporary, adult DARE NATION erotic, romance series focusing on the Dare/Prescott family- a spin off from the author’s DARE TO LOVE series. This is physician Dr. Hudson Northfield, and sports agent Brianne Prescott’s story line. DARE TO TEASE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary. You do not have to have read the previous series to understand or follow the current timeline but like the original series, there is a back story involving the Dare family, and by extension, the Prescott family as well.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Brianne and Hudson) DARE TO TEASE follows the building romance and relationship between physician Dr. Hudson Northfield, and sports agent Brianne Prescott. Hudson Northfield is one of the team physicians with the Miami Thunder, the team owned and operated by the large Dare/Prescott family. Having recently served alongside Braden Prescott in Doctors Without Borders, Hudson’s return to America comes with demands from his family, and the attraction to Braden’s twin sister Brianne Prescott. With the approach of his cousin’s wedding in New York, Hudson invites Brianne to spend the weekend, but more importantly as a buffer between Hudson and his immediate family. Needing something from his father, Hudson is stunned with the prevailing conditions, conditions he refuses to place upon the woman with whom he is falling in love. What ensues is the quick building romance and relationship between Hudson and Brianne, and the fall-out as Hudson’s secret is about to be revealed.

The relationship between Brianne and Hudson is a best friend’s sister relationship; a friends to lovers romance in which Hudson and Brianne both know what they want but Brianne’s well meaning family, and Hudson’s cold and distant father begin to build barriers between our leading couple. The $ex scenes are passionate and intense, without the use of over the top sexually graphic language and text.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including Brianne’s siblings: Austin and Quinn, Jaxon and Macy, Braden and Willow, Damon and Evie; Hudson’s parents Martin and Lucille Northfield; Miami Thunder owner Ian Dare.

DARE TO TEASE is a story of family, friendships, relationships and love; a story of secrets and lies, revelations and acceptance. The premise is captivating; the romance is seduction; the characters are strong-willed, dynamic and charismatic.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Dare to Resist
Dare to Tempt
Dare to Play
Dare to Stay

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

“What are you thinking about?” he asked.
Their faces were close together as they spoke, creating a bubble of intimacy and making it easier to be honest. “About how much I admire you. How you could be on the money train with your family in New York, but instead you’re all about giving back. I like that about you.” She studied his expression and the look in his eyes. “What’s wrong? Something’s bothering you.”
“You’ve come to read me well in a very short time,” he said on a low chuckle. “I do have an issue to deal with while I’m home.”
She reached out and clasped their hands together. Her palms felt better now that it had been a few days since she’d fallen, and the bandages made it easier to do things. Like hold hands. “I’m a good listener … if you want to unload your problems.”
He hesitated, obviously weighing his words. “You know the plans for the clinic Braden mentioned the day he walked in on us?”
She nodded. In the rush of her sudden trip, buying a dress, packing, and making sure her clients were covered by another PR person if she wasn’t reachable, she’d forgotten to ask either man about it since.
“Braden and I want to renovate and remodel the clinic into a state-of-the-art place where people who don’t have access to insurance or good care can still come in and get treated. As it stands now, the equipment is old, the building run-down, and it’s hard to entice professionals to come work there.”
“I love that idea!”
“Obviously so do I. Braden’s going to talk to Paul Dare about funding, and I need to have the same conversation with my father. My grandfather left me money in trust, but he also made my father the trustee, and it’s at his discretion whether or not to let me have money from the principal.”
She realized he’d begun tapping a foot against the floor, his knee bouncing up and down with every contact. “You’re really wound up about this, aren’t you?”

 

After a successful fifteen-year career with various New York publishing houses, and over 40 sexy contemporary romance novels published, N.Y. Times and USA Today Bestselling Author Carly Phillips is now an Indie author who writes to her own expectations and that of her readers. She continues the tradition of hot men and strong women and plans to publish many more sizzling stories. Carly lives in Purchase, NY with her family, two nearly adult daughters and two crazy dogs who star on her Facebook Fan Page and website. She’s a writer, a knitter of sorts, a wife, and a mom. In addition, she’s a Twitter and Internet junkie and is always around to interact with her readers.

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Wild Wind (Chaos 6.6) by Kristen Ashley-Review & Excerpt Tour

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Wild Wind (Chaos 6.6 / 1001 Dark Nights) by Kristen Ashley-Review & Excerpt Tour

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au /

Don’t own a Kindle? Download the FREE Amazon Kindle App for your mobile device or pc

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date March 9, 2021

When he was sixteen years old, Jagger Black laid eyes on the girl who was his. At a cemetery. During her mother’s funeral.

For years, their lives cross, they feel the pull of their connection, but then they go their separate ways.

But when Jagger sees that girl chasing someone down the street, he doesn’t think twice before he wades right in. And when he gets a full-on dose of the woman she’s become, he knows he finally has to decide if he’s all in or if it’s time to cut her loose.

She’s ready to be cut loose.

But Jagger is all in.

**Every 1001 Dark Nights novella is a standalone story. For new readers, it’s an introduction to an author’s world. And for fans, it’s a bonus book in the author’s series. We hope you’ll enjoy each one as much as we do.**

•••••••

REVIEW: WILD WIND is instalment 6.6 in Kristen Ashley’s contemporary, adult CHAOS erotic, MC romance series, and the latest instalment in the multi-authored 1001 Dark Nights series. This is mechanic and CHAOS member Jagger Black, and store /malt shop owner Archie Harmon’s story line. WILD WIND can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous instalments is revealed where necessary. Jagger is the son of Graham and Keely Black, step-son of Shepherd ‘Hound’ Ironside, and brother of Dutch.

Told from three third person perspectives (Jagger, Archie and Tack) WILD WIND follows the building romance and relationship between mechanic and CHAOS member Jagger Black, and store /malt shop owner Archie Harmon. Approximately ten years earlier, a then sixteen year old Jagger Black, visiting his father’s grave at the local cemetery, spied a young girl at her mother’s funeral. Leaving the young girl a note on her mother’s grave, Jagger would be surprised when a response was handed to him, and in the ensuing years would run into our heroine at irregular intervals, never having learned anything about her. Fast forward to present day wherein Jagger would witness the young girl, now a beautiful woman running after a young boy who had stolen from her shop, a young boy that would figure prominently in our couple’s lives. Enter Archie Harmon aka A, and the woman with whom Jagger would fall in love. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between Jagger and Archie, and the potential fall-out as Jagger continues to struggle with the loss of his father, a man he barely remembers, but a man he has placed on a pedestal most of his life.

Jagger Black doesn’t believe he is capable of loving, and in this, his feelings for Archie are foreign and strange. Having watched his mother struggle for years after the death of her first husband, Jagger thinks he is incapable of finding his own happily ever after, in the face of never knowing the man he hoped he could be. Meeting Archie Harmon gave Jagger thoughts for the future but when the reality of their situation became overwhelming, Jagger battles between head and heart. Archie Harmon runs a vintage shop, a shop where she ‘caters’ to the struggling teens from the local school. Never one to back down from going for what she wants, Archie wants Jagger but must tread carefully as our hero continues to struggles with demons from the past.

Meanwhile, a group of troubled teens and young adults find themselves gathering at Archie’s local shop but all is not well in the less than desirable area of town, as several teens face discrimination and bullying at the hands of their peers and so-called friends. Having witnessed the abuse first hand, Jagger and his Chaos brothers take a stand in an effort to protect the young men who have become targets of the local bullies.

The relationship between Jagger and Archie begins ten years earlier when neither one knew the other’s name. Over the years, Jagger and Archie would run into one another promising to meet but having never come to fruition. Jagger’s chance to make things right comes with the knowledge that Archie may be the ‘one’ but Jagger’s demons ride him hard, and in this, he struggles to be the man his father would want him to be. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and intense.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including a ‘flashback to Jagger’s father Graham and Tack, the former president of the Chaos MC. We are reintroduced to Jagger’s brother Dutch, and their parents Keely and Hound Ironside as well as the introduction to Archie’s friends Joany and Lafayette; troubled teen Mal; Archie’s parents Andy and Haley, her brother Elijah, and her step sisters Hellen and Liane.

WILD WIND is a story of family and relationships; fractured dynamics; acceptance, revelations, open wounds and healing hearts. The premise is inviting, inspiring and imaginative; the romance is heart warming, captivating and provocative; the characters are encouraging, energetic and animated. WILD WIND is a welcome addition to the CHAOS family, another biker finds his happily ever after.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

 

“You wanna know what I think?” Hound asked.
Jagger tipped his head back to look at his dad.
Then Hound told him what he thought.
“I think you’re in. And I think if you walk away from this girl, you’ll regret it for the rest of your life. And I think I’m here to tell you that because you need another voice sayin’ something you already know.”
“That’s what I think too,” Jagger admitted.
Hound nodded, and again he did it only once.
“Then I’ll look forward to havin’ her over to dinner and celebrating with your mom that she can finally stop worrying about you because she’s feelin’ you shoulda been done sowin’ those oats about five years ago.”
Jagger grinned at him.
His mother had never been at one with the way Jag tackled life, considering he’d always been about wresting as much of it as he could for his own.
Dutch was the quiet, responsible one.
Jag was…
Not.
Hound reached out and caught Jag by the neck, gave him a squeeze, a shove, then let him go.
And Jagger felt better.
“So, what’s her name?” Hound asked.
“Archie.”
Hound looked him right in the eye.
Then he burst out laughing.
He settled back into the bar, his fingers cradling his brew, and he was shaking his head.
“Archie and Georgie. Fuck,” Hound said.
Jag hadn’t thought of that, both him and Dutch finding girls with boys’ names.
He grinned, leaned back into the bar himself, and replied, “She doesn’t have red hair and freckles, and I seriously doubt her best friend’s name is Jughead, but I think she might have a bit of tomboy in her.”
“Well, son,” Hound picked up his beer and tipped it toward Jag, “you’re about to find out.”
Jag grabbed his beer and tapped necks with Hound.
And he was grinning again.
Because Hound was right.
He was. 


 

NOTE: The excerpt is intended for mature readers due to strong language and content.

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Kristen Ashley was born in Gary, Indiana, USA. She nearly killed her mother and herself making it into the world, seeing as she had the umbilical cord wrapped around her neck (already attempting to accessorise and she hadn’t taken her first breath!).

Kristen grew up in Brownsburg, Indiana but has lived in Denver, Colorado and the West Country of England. Thus she has been blessed to have friends and family around the globe. Her posse is loopy (to say the least) but loopy is good when you want to write.

Kristen was raised in a house with a large and multi-generational family. They lived on a very small farm in a small town in the heartland and existed amongst the strains of Glenn Miller, The Everly Brothers, REO Speedwagon and Whitesnake (and the wardrobes that matched).

Needless to say, growing up in a house full of music, clothes and love was a good way to grow up.

And as she keeps growing up, it keeps getting better.

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More Than Protect You by Shayla Black-Review & Excerpt tour

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More Than Protect You (More Than Words 6.5 /1001 Dark Nights) by Shayla Black-Review & Excerpt tour

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au /

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 6, 2020

Can I keep the gorgeous, gun-shy single mother safe—and prove I’m the man for her?

I’m Tanner Kirk—Certified firearms instructor and mixed martial arts enthusiast. When I filed for divorce at the end of an empty marriage, all I wanted was a vacation in paradise, not another woman in my life. But how can I possibly say no to Amanda Lund, a young single mom desperate to learn self-defense? Or refuse the banked desire on the guarded beauty’s face?

I can’t.

So I seduce Mandy until we’re burning up the sheets…and soon find my heart entangled with her bruised and battered one. But when a nemesis from her past tries to destroy our future by unearthing my secret, will she understand and forgive me—or give up on us forever?

**Every 1001 Dark Nights novella is a standalone story. For new readers, it’s an introduction to an author’s world. And for fans, it’s a bonus book in the author’s series. We hope you’ll enjoy each one as much as we do.**

••••••

REVIEW:MORE THAN PROTECT YOU is instalment 6.5 in Shayla Black’s contemporary, adult MORE THAN WORDS erotic, romance series, and the latest instalment in the multi-authored 1001 Dark Nights series. This is thirty-nine year old, certified firearms instructor and mixed martial arts enthusiast Tanner Kirk, and single mother/ PA Amanda Lund’s story line. MORE THAN PROTECT YOU can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary. Some of the events of MORE THAN PROTECT YOU cross over with the events and timeline of More Than Dare You #6.

SOME BACKGROUND: Throughout the years billionaire investor Barclay Reed fathered several illegitimate children with at least four women, but his latest scheme was to swindle dozens of people in an elaborate Ponzi scheme leaving them high and dry in the wake of his death. MORE THAN WORDS focuses on his children, and the people whose life he destroyed.

Told from first person perspective (Tanner Kirk) with a final chapter from Amanda, MORE THAN PROTECT YOU follows in the aftermath of an attack against our story line heroine. Amanda Lund came from a well to do family but found herself looking for a daddy figure and discovered it with her father’s friend Barclay Reed. Now a single mother of a one-year old child whose father swindled billions of dollars from unsuspecting investors Amanda finds herself a target of an unknown assailant and has fled to Hawaii in an effort to get to know her son’s extended family. To everyone’s surprise, trouble has followed Amanda to Maui, and she is in desperate need of personal protection. Enter certified firearms instructor and mixed martial arts enthusiast Tanner Kirk, a man who has just arrived in Hawaii looking for a brand new start. What ensues is the quick building romance and relationship between Tanner and Amanda, and the potential fall-out as issues of trust push Tanner out of Amanda’s life.

The relationship between Tanner and Amanda begins as an assignment but quickly turns into something more. Tanner is in the process of divorcing his wife of ten years, and Amanda is struggling to move on from the past. When Tanner and Amanda set up house, their attraction deepens, the sexual chemistry is hot but issues of trust are about to tear them apart. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and intense.

There is as large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including many of the Reed siblings: Griffin Reed (More Than Need You #2), Noah Weston and Harlow Reed (More Than Love You 3), Evan Cook and Nia Wright (More Than Crave You #4), Amanda’s brother Stephen Lund (More Than Pleasure You #5.5) Trace Weston and Macey (More Than Dare You #6), as well as Amanda and Steven’s father Douglas Lund, and investor Bruce Barrett.

MORE THAN PROTECT YOU is a story of family and relationships; betrayal and trust; desperation, power, money and control. The premise is engaging ; the romance is tender and seductive; the characters are energetic and edgy.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
More than Want You
More Than Need You
More Than Love You
More Than Crave You
More than Tempt You
More than Pleasure You
More Than Dare You

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy



There’s nothing like Bon Jovi waking me up before five a.m. on a Sunday morning. I eye my phone, now blasting “You Give Love a Bad Name,” my soon-to-be ex-wife’s ringtone. She only ever calls when she wants something, so this ought to be interesting.
I grope the device off the nightstand and flop back to my pillow. “What, Ellie?”
“It’s Elise now.”
The day I met her, working on a ranch a hundred miles outside of Pueblo, Colorado, she was Ellie. She was a happy-go-lucky nineteen and didn’t have an uncompromising thought in her head. I took one look at her sloppy ponytail, hazel eyes, crooked smile, and very short shorts—and I fell. We got married a few years later, bought a house, and started a business together. Everything was going all right…until it wasn’t. Eight years had gone by when I looked up and realized I was married to a stranger. When she asked for a trial separation, I didn’t fight. That night, I packed a bag and walked out the door. I haven’t missed her since.
“Do you know what fucking time it is in Maui, Elise?”
“Early. I know. But since you haven’t been available during reasonable daytime hours lately, I thought I’d try this.”
So me ignoring her three phone calls yesterday wasn’t subtle enough? “What do you want?”
“Did you get the paperwork yet? I signed it. The carrier shows it was delivered to you on Friday.”
She’s itching for our divorce to be final. In truth, I’m feeling the same. We separated nearly two years ago, and finally this long road is almost over.
“Yeah.”
“And? Is that all you have to say?”
“Yeah.” Mostly because it drives her crazy. I’m not trying to antagonize her simply to be a vengeful asshole. I’m just hoping if these phone calls are painful enough she’ll stop.
She sighs like she’s grappling for patience. “Tanner Maxwell Kirk, please give me a straightforward answer once and for all. Are you going to sign the papers?”
“Yeah.” Why would I stay married to her now?
“This week?”
“You in a hurry?” I ask out of curiosity more than anything. And maybe because I want to yank her chain.
“Not that you care, but yes.”
“Why? You’re not looking to get married again, are you?”
She hesitates. “I don’t see that it’s any of your business.”
“Then I don’t see why I have to sign right away.”
“Ugh, you are the most frustrating, infuriating man! I only married you because I wanted off that damn ranch, and I didn’t know how damaging the traditional, patriarchal institution of marriage was…”
I tune out. I’ve heard this speech. She didn’t find marriage demeaning or oppressive until she decided to go back to college and took a bunch of classes that turned her thinking inside out. Fine. I never wanted to hold her back. The moment she asked, I set her free. A few months later, I even hired an attorney to make it official.

Shayla Black is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of more than forty novels. For over fifteen years, she’s written contemporary, erotic, paranormal, and historical romances via traditional, independent, foreign, and audio publishers. Her books have sold well over a million copies and been published in a dozen languages.

Raised an only child, Shayla occupied herself with lots of daydreaming, much to the chagrin of her teachers. In college, she found her love for reading and realized that she could have a career publishing the stories spinning in her imagination. Though she graduated with a degree in Marketing/Advertising and embarked on a stint in corporate America to pay the bills, her heart has always been with her characters. She’s thrilled that she’s been living her dream as a full-time author for the past seven years.

Shayla currently lives in North Texas with her wonderfully supportive husband, her teenage daughter, and a very spoiled cat. In her “free” time, she enjoys reality TV, reading, and listening to an eclectic blend of music.

➣ Follow Shayla Black on Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/shayla-black

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BEGIN AGAIN (Stay 3.6) by Jennifer Probst-Review & Excerpt tour

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BEGIN AGAIN (Stay 3.6/ 1001 Dark Nights)  by Jennifer Probst-Review &tour

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au /

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 28, 2020

Chloe Lake is finally living her dream. As the daughter of the Governor, she’s consistently in the spotlight, and after being dubbed the Most Eligible Bachelorette of NYC, both her career and personal life has exploded. Fortunately, her work as an advocate for animal welfare requires constant publicity and funding, so she embraces her role and plays for the camera—anything for the sake of her beloved rescues.

But when a big case is on the line, she’s faced with the one obstacle she never counted on: the boy who broke her heart is back, and in order to gain justice, they need to work together.

Chloe swears she can handle it until old feelings resurface, and she’s faced with a heartbreaking choice.

Will this time end differently—or are they destined to be only each other’s first love—instead of forever?

Owen Salt fell hard for Chloe when he was a screwed-up kid in college, and spent the next years changing himself into the man his grandfather believed he was capable of. But when his career led him across the country, he knew he needed to leave the woman he loved behind. He’s never forgotten her, but as the new darling of the press, now, she’s way out of his league. When work brings him back to fight for justice by her side, he swears he can handle it.

But he’s never really gotten over his first love—and he wants one more opportunity to prove he’s a man who’s worthy.

Can Owen convince the woman who holds his heart to take a second chance on forever—or is it too late for them both?

Every 1001 Dark Nights novella is a standalone story. For new readers, it’s an introduction to an author’s world. And for fans, it’s a bonus book in the author’s series.

•••••••••

REVIEW:BEGIN AGAIN by Jennifer Probst is a contemporary, adult romance storyline set in the author’s STAY series, and the latest instalment in the multi-authored 1001 Dark Nights series. This is attorney Owen Salt, and advocate for animal welfare Chloe Lake’s story line. BEGIN AGAIN can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary. Chloe’s story begins in book one THE START OF SOMETHING GOOD.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Chloe and Owen) BEGIN AGAIN follows the second chance romance between twenty six year old attorney Owen Salt, and twenty-eight year old animal advocate Chloe Lake. Approximately seven years earlier, Owen Salt walked away from the woman he loved in an effort become the best man he could possibly be but in doing so Owen destroyed our heroine’s heart. Fast forward to present day wherein Owen returns to New York, as the new lawyer for Chloe’s animal rights group, a position that forces Chloe to work side by side with the man that cause her so much heart ache and pain. With another suitor hoping to make Chloe is own happily ever after, Owen must step up his game if he is going to prove to Chloe that he is a changed and better man. What ensues is the rebuilding romance and relationship between Owen and Chloe as Owen must prove he is worthy of Chloe’s love.

Owen and Chloe met years before as both were serving mandatory community service at a local animal rehab farm. Owen immediately fell in love with our story line heroine but their two year age difference and Owen’s less than stellar (prior) behavior forced Owen to reconsider his direction in life, and in doing so meant Owen would have to leave a heart broken Chloe behind. Chloe Lake never completely recovered from Owen’s rejection, and his return to New York brought with it too many memories of a time long ago but Chloe was willing to give Owen another chance if only to prove he was a worthy adversary and advocate for the animals she so dearly loved.

The relationship between Chloe and Owen is a rekindling romance; a second chance relationship between two people whose lives went in opposite directions when Owen walked out of Chloe’s life in search for something ‘more’. The $ex scenes are limited but passionate.

Several of the previous story line characters and couples play secondary and supporting characters including the return of Hei-Hei, the giant Polish chicken, and Chloe’s now governor father Jonathan Lake and his new wife Alyssa (Something Just Like This 3.5).

BEGIN AGAIN is a sweet yet spicy story of second chances. The premise is engaging and entertaining; the romance is captivating; the characters are familiar, dynamic, stubborn and fun.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
The Start of Something Good
A Brand New Ending
All Roads Lead to You
3.5 Something Just Like This

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

He cut the engine. Leaned in. Her hand drifted up to hesitantly touch his face, smooth and stubble free, his square cut jaw straight, full lips, and cut cheekbones straight from a superhero comic. “You’re very handsome,” she whispered.
He chuckled. “Thank you. But you are a work of art.” He stroked her hair. “And it’s officially our fifth date. Would you invite me up?”
Tension stiffened her muscles. She wasn’t ready to sleep with him yet. There was something sacred about inviting a man into her bed. When she was young and reckless, she’d made a bunch of bad choices, sleeping with bad boys to prove nothing could hurt her, and it only made a bigger mess in her head. Now she accepted her need to go slow and refused to apologize for it. “I don’t think tonight is a good idea,” she said.
He nodded, taking the rejection with his normal ease. “Got it. Then I’ll just have to show you how you make me feel right here.”
He lowered his head and kissed her.
Chloe responded immediately, allowing her mouth to soften under his, her hands gripping his broad shoulders. He smelled of expensive cologne, a musky, ocean scent that should have driven her crazy. He knew what he was doing, expertly applying the perfect amount of pressure, slowly sliding his tongue with subtle precision, allowing her to warm up. Her body responded like a fine-tuned machine and she sank into the kiss, deliberately shutting her mind down to enjoy the moment.
When he finally lifted his head, satisfaction gleamed in his eyes. “You are delicious,” he muttered. “I can’t wait to see you again.”
“Me, too.” She smiled and grabbed her purse. “I better go. Thanks for dinner.”
“Thanks for saying yes.”
Chloe climbed out of the car and walked to her apartment building. Nodding to Art, the doorman, she took the elevator up to the eighth floor and entered her sacred space. Kicking off her heels, she went straight to her living room, got comfortable, and took out her phone.
He answered on the second ring. “Sweetheart! It’s so good to hear from you. What’s up?”
The sound of her father’s voice was everything good in the world, and she leaned her head back on the sofa, closing her eyes. Funny, for so many years, she hid everything from him, refusing to share any of her feelings. Now she looked forward to their talks, and though she had many close friends who’d be there anytime, she preferred going straight to her father. “Hi, Dad. Am I interrupting?”
“There’s nothing I could be doing where I’d consider you an interruption. You sound funny.”
She laughed but it turned into a half sob. “I had a date. With Drew Dinkle.”
A whistle cut over the phone. “That’s great! I’ve always liked Drew. He’s got his priorities straight—family values, hard work, and charity. If I had a choice to set you up with anyone, I’d pick Drew. How’d it go?”
“Great. He took me to Felice’s.”
“Our favorite place. See, he’s winning already. How long have you been seeing him?”
“This was our fifth date. Dad, can I ask you something?”
“Sure.”
“Is it better to be ruled by your heart or your head?”

Follow: Twitter / Goodreads/ Facebook / Website / Newsletter

Jennifer ProbstJennifer Probst is the New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of both sexy and erotic contemporary romance. She was thrilled her novel, The Marriage Bargain, was the #6 Bestselling Book on Amazon for 2012. Her first children’s book, Buffy and the Carrot, was co-written with her 12 year old niece, and her short story, “A Life Worth Living” chronicles the life of a shelter dog. She makes her home in New York with her sons, husband, two rescue dogs, and a house that never seems to be clean. She loves hearing from all readers! Stop by her website at http://www.jenniferprobst.com for all her upcoming releases, news and street team information.

 

 

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Sacrifice of Darkness by Alexandra Ivy-Review tour

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Sacrifice of Darkness (Guardians of Eternity / 1001 dark Nights) by Alexandra Ivy-Review tour

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au /

Don’t own a Kindle? Download the FREE Amazon Kindle App for your mobile device or pc

Add to Goodreads: https://bit.ly/2ZpK7cF

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 30, 2020

Javad has one rule. No fighting pits.

It doesn’t matter that the savage battles have been a tradition among demons for eons. As the manager of the Viper’s Nest in Vegas, his word is law. Period. Then he hears rumors that some fool has dared to create a fighting pit in the middle of the desert. He goes in search of the hidden location, only to realize too late it’s a trap by his former master Vynom. The powerful vampire is determined to force Javad to fight once again. This time to the death.

Terra is a rare fey creature known as a Seraf. Long ago she’d been captured by Vynom and forced to heal the fighters he used in his pits. Javad had rescued her, and she’d given him a medallion. If he ever needed her, all he had to do was to speak her name and the magic would lead her to him. When she hears his call she doesn’t hesitate to rush to his rescue. Even when it means returning to the dark violence that still haunts her dreams.

Can they escape the nightmare that nearly destroyed them in the past? And if they survive, are they willing to sacrifice the duties that have pulled them apart to battle for a future together?

••••••••••

REVIEW:SACRIFICE OF DARKNESS is the 15.1 instalment in Alexandra Ivy’s contemporary, adult GUARDIANS OF ETERNITY paranormal, romance series, and the latest addition to the multi-authored 1001 Dark Nights series. This is vampire Javad, and Seraf Terra’s story line. SACRIFICE OF DARKNESS can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

Told from several third person perspectives including Javad and Seraf, SACRIFICE OF DARKNESS follows the imprisonment, escape and recapture of vampire Javad, by his maker Vynom. For centuries, Javad had been forced to fight in the underground cages where he would meet Terra, a Seraf, a fey creature with the ability to heal. Upon his escape Javad would become the manager of the Viper’s Nest in Las Vegas but the possible reappearance Vynom running another underground fighting ring in Javad’s territory forces our hero, along with Levet as his guiee, to search for the man responsible. Imprisoned and forced to fight to the death, Javad would, once again, come face to face with his fated mate, Terra, when Vynom gets help In the recapture of both. What ensues is the fight to the death between Javad and Frack the Orc, and Terra and Javad’s struggle to free themselves from the underground cavern.

SACRIFICE OF DARKNESS is a quick read In which we revisit with our resident Gargoyle Levet; are introduced to the frost fairies; and see another vampire fall under the spell of his fated mate. The premise is fast paced and entertaining; the characters are colorful and dynamic; the romance is passionate.

Previous Reviews (this a list of books we have reviewed at The Reading Cafe. We have read most if not all of the books in the series but have not posted a review !)

When Darkness Comes
Embrace the Darkness
Darkness Everlasting
Darkness Revealed
Darkness Unleashed
Beyond the Darkness
Devoured by Darkness
Taken by Darkness
Darkness Eternal
Bound by Darkness
Where Darkness Lives
Fear The Darkness
Darkness Avenged
Darkness Eternal
Hunt the Darkness
A Very Levet Christmas
When Darkness Ends
Darkness Returns
Beware the Darkness
Conquer the Darkness

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Javad’s eyes shimmered with a stunning bronze, his snowy white fangs lengthening as he reacted to the scent of her desire. Leaning forward, he brushed his lips down the length of her jaw before nuzzling the corner of her mouth.
“You are very distracting.”
Terra shuddered, her stomach cramping with pleasure. It’d been so long since a male had touched her. Not since Javad had kissed her goodbye in the sewers beneath Athens.
Now her entire body was going up in flames.
“Am I?”
He scraped the tip of one fang over her lower lip. “Yes.”

 

Like most writers, I was born with an avid love for reading. Growing up in a small town in the Midwest, I can’t remember a time when I didn’t have a book in my hand or wasn’t dreaming up wild stories in my head. And when I stepped into my local library for the first time I thought it was paradise. There were so many books on the shelves I didn’t know where to start!

Still, I didn’t plan to grow up and become a writer. I was much more interested in a glorious career as an actress on Broadway.

I followed my dream by acquiring a degree in theatre and performing for several years in summer-stock productions, but after I married my college sweetheart I decided to put the career on hold while we started a family. After the arrival of my two sons, Chance and Alex, I found myself seeking a new creative outlet and decided to turn my occasional scribblings into a genuine effort to get published.

I’d like to say that I was an overnight success, but the truth is that it took years before I finally got ‘the call’. The rejections were painful, but now I’m relieved. All those manuscripts that I thought were the next Great American Novel are now exactly where they belong…gathering dust under my bed.

They did, however, help me learn my craft, and just as importantly, they gave me the opportunity to enjoy writing in a wide variety of genres as I searched for my voice. Which no doubt explains why I started writing traditional regencies under the name Debbie Raleigh and then moved to steamy historicals under the name Deborah Raleigh before transforming into a contemporary paranormal writer as Alexandra Ivy. Now my career spans everything from erotica to romantic suspense.

When I’m not writing I love to travel, it doesn’t matter where I’m going as long as it doesn’t include any cooking or cleaning. I also love to spend time with my family who continue to be my greatest source of inspiration. And since some things never change…when I have a few minutes, you can still find me with a book in my hand!

Connect with Alexandra:

Website / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads

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Charmed (Masters and Mercenaries) by Lexi Blake-Review tour

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Charmed (Masters and Mercenaries / 1001 Dark Nights) by Lexi Blake-Review tour

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au /

Add CHARMED to Goodreads: https://bit.ly/2WRMJye

Don’t own a Kindle? Download the FREE Amazon Kindle App for your mobile device or pc

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date June 23, 2020

JT Malone is lucky, and he knows it. He is the heir to a billion-dollar petroleum empire, and he has a loving family. Between his good looks and his charm, he can have almost any woman he wants. The world is his oyster, and he really likes oysters. So why does it all feel so empty?

Nina Blunt is pretty sure she’s cursed. She worked her way up through the ranks at Interpol, fighting for every step with hard work and discipline. Then she lost it all because she loved the wrong person. Rebuilding her career with McKay-Taggart, she can’t help but feel lonely. It seems everyone around her is finding love and starting families. But she knows that isn’t for her. She has vowed never to make the mistake of falling in love again.

JT comes to McKay-Taggart for assistance rooting out a corporate spy, and Nina signs on to the job. Their working relationship becomes tricky, however, as their personal chemistry flares like a wildfire. Completing the assignment without giving in to the attraction that threatens to overwhelm them seems like it might be the most difficult part of the job. When danger strikes, will they be able to count on each other when the bullets are flying? If not, JT’s charmed life might just come to an end.

••••••••

REVIEW: CHARMED is the 20.5 instalment in Lexi Blake’s contemporary, adult MASTERS AND MERCENARIES erotic, romantic suspense series, and the latest addition to the multi-authored 1001 Dark Nights series. This is thirty-two year old, billionaire oil businessman JT Malone, and former Interpol agent and McKay Taggart’s newest operative Nina Blunt’s story line. CHARMED can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

Told from several third person perspectives including Nina and JT, CHARMED follows the building romance between thirty-two year old, billionaire oil businessman JT Malone, and former Interpol agent and McKay-Taggart’s newest operative Nina Blunt. Nina Blunt’s latest assignment with McKay-Taggart is working undercover to ferret our a potential spy at Malone Oil but a one-night stand with JT would bring Nina face to face with a number of suspects thus ensuring their one-night stand becomes something more. A fake romance and engagement ensues in an effort to smoke out the person(s) responsible for trying to steal industry secrets, and sell them to the highest bidder. What ensues is the building romance and relationship between JT and Nina, and the potential fall-out as JT and Nina’s relationship begins as a lie, a lie between our leading couple.

Someone is trying to steal secrets from Malone Oil, and the group at McKay-Taggart is on the job. Going in as a happily married couple, Nina and JT must remain in character as Nina continues to do her job but all does not go according to play when our couple are targeted, and JT struggles to protect the woman with whom he is falling in love. As a Dominant both in and out of the bedroom, JT battles between head and heart when Nina places herself in the direct line of fire, doing her job.

The relationship between Nina and JT begins as a one-night stand, an affair wherein Nina had no idea as the identity of the man with whom she would fall in love. Caught the morning after by the people involved, JT and Nina would quickly label their relationship as the newly engaged, an engagement that was suspect by on so many levels. The $ex scenes are passionate and intense, with some light Dom/sub sexual scenarios.

There is a large ensemble cast of colorful, energetic and familiar secondary and supporting characters including Big Tag and Charlotte, Alex McKay, agent Sandra Croft, JT’s brother and McKay -Target agent Michael Malone, as well as JT’s assistant Dianna, and several Malone Oil employees.

CHARMED is a story of betrayal and vengeance, power, money, and control; secrets, lies, relationships and love. The fast paced premise is intriguing and entertaining; the characters are charismatic; the romance is frenzied, seductive and hot.

 

“If I’d had drink number four, would we be here?” Nina was curious. She’d had more than one man try to ply her with drink to get what he wanted. It never worked, but she wanted to understand his reasoning.
He stared at her for a moment as though assessing the situation and then he leaned against the wall. “No. I would have made sure you got back to your room, but I don’t know your threshold. I have zero interest in coaxing you with liquor. I would far rather know you wanted me and not some random guy to forget your troubles with. And I didn’t want to get drunk either. Three’s a good limit for me. I don’t need anything to dull this experience.”
He was forthright. She liked that quite a bit, and he hadn’t had a fourth drink either. He’d been perfectly in control. Another thing she liked. She couldn’t exactly come out and tell him she would very much enjoy it if he dominated her sexually. Or could she? “But I am trying to forget my troubles. That doesn’t mean I don’t want you in particular. If you hadn’t been in the bar this evening, I would have settled for a book.”
His lips curled up in the sexiest smile. “What kind of book?”
“Romance.” Somehow she didn’t think he would be derisive. Some people had contempt for the genre, but they were usually the ones who could use it the most.
He moved in, his hand coming up to brush a stray hair off her cheek, tucking it behind her ear. “I like the sound of that. It’s your turn to tell me something. What would the hero of that book you would have read do right now?”
He’d backed her against the wall, but not in a way that felt threatening. He was taller than she was and loomed over her, his broad shoulders blocking most of her line of sight. She was still in her heels and for most men that put her at eye level or taller. Not with this one. It was nice to look up to a man for once. “I think he would invite her back to his room where they wouldn’t shock anyone who happens to walk down the hallway.”
He watched her like he was studying something fascinating, something he wanted desperately to learn. “I happen to know there are only two rooms on this floor, and I saw the couple in the other room go upstairs a few hours ago. They seemed like they were ready for sleep. Not that older couples can’t party the night away, too, but they didn’t seem like the type. So we don’t have to worry about anyone catching us, though I’ll be honest, I wouldn’t be ashamed to get caught touching you.”
He was pushing all her buttons. The good kind. The kind that got her in trouble.


 

NY Times and USA Today bestselling author Lexi Blake lives in North Texas with her husband, three kids, and the laziest rescue dog in the world. She began writing at a young age, concentrating on plays and journalism. It wasn’t until she started writing romance and urban fantasy that she found the stories of her heart. She likes to find humor in the strangest places and believes in happy endings no matter how odd the couple, threesome, or foursome may seem.

FACEBOOK / TWITTER / WEBSITE / AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE

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RAFE (Arizona Vengeance 6.5) by Sawyer Bennett-Review Tour

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RAFE (Arizona Vengeance 6.5 / 1001 Dark Nights) by Sawyer Bennett Review & Excerpt Tour

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au /

Don’t own a Kindle? Download the FREE Amazon Kindle App for your mobile device or pc

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 28, 2020.

I was living my dream until one phone call changed everything.

As the second line center for the Arizona Vengeance, my mind has been on one thing—helping my team bring home a championship. But that all changed when I found out my dad had cancer and only months to live. In that moment, nothing mattered more than getting home to North Carolina to be by his side. That meant asking for the unthinkable—a trade to the Carolina Cold Fury.

Now I’m home and when I’m not on the ice with my new team, I’m helping care for my dad. And in the midst of my grief, I find comfort from the one person I never expected.

Calliope Ramirez stole my heart at a very young age. The beautiful, smart, headstrong girl next door, she was my first… everything. She has never forgiven me for leaving her, believing that I chose hockey over a future together. What she doesn’t understand is that every decision I made was for her, and I’ve never given up hope that one day we’d be together again.

Watching my dad slip away is a harsh reminder of how short life can be, and having Callie by my side makes me realize I was a damn fool before. That changes starting right now. Calliope Ramirez is mine and I’m not going to waste the second chance that I’ve been given.

•••••••••

REVIEW: RAFE by Sawyer Bennett is novella 6.5 in the author’s contemporary, adult ARIZONA VENGEANCE erotic, romance hockey series,and the latest instalment in the multi-authored 1001 Dark Nights series. This is twenty six year olds, former Arizona Vengeance center Rafe Simmons, and nurse Calliope Ramirez’ story line. RAFE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Rafe and Calliope) RAFE follows Rafe as he asks for a late season trade to the Carolina Cold Fury, in the aftermath of his father’s end stage cancer. A return home means facing the woman he has never stopped loving, the woman whose heart he destroyed years before. Enter twenty six year old Calliope Ramirez. What ensues is the rebuilding romance between Calliope and Rafe, and the potential fall-out as Rafe wants more than Calliope is willing to give.

Calliope Ramirez was destroyed eight years earlier when the man that she loved left as he embarked on his professional career. Fast forward to present day wherein Calliope struggles to forgive the man that broke her heart. Rafe Simmons never expected to come face to face with the woman he left behind but Calliope will become a bigger part of his life when she reveals she is helping his father in his final days.

The relationship between Calliope and Rafe is one of second chances; a rekindling romance between two people who never stopped loving one another but whose futures went in opposite directions. Calliope never understood why the man that she loved left her behind, and eight years later Rafe is hoping to begin where they left off. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

We are re- introduced to several of the Carolina Cold Fury whom we met in the previous series, as well as welcoming Rafes parents Brenda and Jim, and Calliopes parents Mateo and Danielle.

RAFE is a story of family and grief; second chances and love. The character driven premise mainly focuses on the rekindling romance and Rafes history with a man who is going to die. The premise is engaging and real; the romance is seductive; the characters are colorful and proud.

Reading Order and Previous Reviews
Bishop
Erik
Legend
Dax
Tacker
Dominik

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

➣ Watch the book trailer: https://bit.ly/35axv9X

➣ Follow Sawyer Bennett on Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/sawyer-bennett

I swing open the door, eager to see Mrs. Filmore because she’s an excellent baker, but am stunned stupid when I see Rafe standing there with two grocery bags in hand.
I left him at his parents’ house not more than an hour and a half ago. There was no kiss goodbye, only a promise to call me later. I didn’t know what to—or if I should—read into that. The kiss would have implied some lingering affection; the lack of implying the sex was a one-time-only thing, and perhaps a mistake. Yet the promise to call spoke to wanting to see me again. Or maybe we’d just go back to being tentative friends.
Ugh. So confusing. In the moment, the only thing I can think to say is, “What are you doing here?”
“I missed you, too,” he replies with a sly grin, pushing his way into my apartment.
“Why don’t you come on in?” I mutter sarcastically and close the door, noting how good he smells as he passes me. “But, seriously…why are you here?”
Rafe takes a moment to survey my small apartment and then moves into the kitchen. He holds up the grocery bags. “I thought we could hang. I brought all the makings for tacos, and we can watch movies or something. Really great apartment, by the way. It’s totally you.”
I pad across the small living area and rest my forearms on the counter that separates it from the kitchen. He starts unloading the bags—ground beef, lettuce, tomatoes, a six-pack of beer.
“Dad’s sleeping, and Mom’s doing some spring cleaning,” he explains as he moves to put the items in my fridge. “She shooed me out of the house, and I thought we could hang.”
“Hang?” I ask skeptically. What does that even mean?
And then it dawns on me.
“Oh,” I drawl in amusement. “You want sex again?”
Rafe pops straight up, looking at me over the refrigerator door, his eyebrows raised in surprise. “You offering?”
“Um,” I reply, unsure of myself.
He grins at me. “As much as you totally rocked my world today at the pond, Poppy, I really just thought we could hang out. Get to know each other again.”
My eyebrows draw inward, and I’m more confused now than ever. I rocked his world? Really?
Why I flush with pride is beyond me, but what makes a girl feel good is what makes a girl feel good.
Rafe shuts the fridge and moves around the kitchen counter to me. He takes my hand in his, covers it with his other, and brings them to his chest, his expression somber. “I know I can’t possibly hope for you to understand what I did to you eight years ago, and I know it’s likely a lot of wishful thinking that you could forgive me completely. But right now, we reconnected, and I want to see where this goes. Today with you has been the best day since I found out about my dad. I guess I just want more of it.”

Since the release of her debut contemporary romance novel, Off Sides, in January 2013, Sawyer Bennett has released more than 30 books and has been featured on both the USA Today and New York Times bestseller lists on multiple occasions.

A reformed trial lawyer from North Carolina, Sawyer uses real life experience to create relatable, sexy stories that appeal to a wide array of readers. From new adult to erotic contemporary romance, Sawyer writes something for just about everyone.

Sawyer likes her Bloody Marys strong, her martinis dirty, and her heroes a combination of the two. When not bringing fictional romance to life, Sawyer is a chauffeur, stylist, chef, maid, and personal assistant to a very active toddler, as well as full-time servant to two adorably naughty dogs. She believes in the good of others, and that a bad day can be cured with a great work-out, cake, or a combination of the two.

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | BOOKBUB | AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE | INSTAGRAM

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