Tag Archives: Anthology

The Temple (Sinners & Saints Anthology) by M.A. Abraham – Review

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The Temple (Sinners & Saints Anthology) by M.A. Abraham – Review

 

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Description:
Sometimes it takes a Saint to love a Sinner.

There’s something for everyone in this collection of 15+ romance stories from today’s USA Today bestselling, award-winning, and rising star authors. From reluctant billionaires to displaced gods, century old vampires to young lovers just about to graduate high-school, love strikes where it will, and who’s to say a Sinner is any less deserving of happiness than a Saint?

Let us tempt you to take a walk on the wild side, unleash a little bit of the sinner inside you to find that romance you’ve always been waiting for.

These original stories are packed with unforgettable characters, amazing romances, and intense emotion that will leave you on the edge of your seat waiting for more. From sweet to sultry, these stories will have you reading long into the night.

Anthology Author list

Shaunna Rodriguez
Andi Lawrencovna
Angelina Kerner
C.A. King
B.K. Harrell
Crystal StClair
Madison Granger
Hannah Earl
Deborah Garland
Megan Kuykendall
Payne Craven
M.A. Abraham
Tricia Daniels
AnnaMarie Gardner
Didi Oviatt
Darlene Kuncytes
S.E. Winters
Raven Genevieve

 

Review:

The Temple by M.A. Abraham is a novella that is part of the Sinners and Saints Anthology. Above is the list of authors participating in this Anthology and a brief description.  Since I read all of M.A. Abraham’s work, this review is only on her novella The Temple.  Brief description: Ele is a powerful goddess in her own right, so she doesn’t worry about her safety as her sisters think she should. She is beautiful in ways that catches the wrong type attention. In order to keep her safe, her sisters blackmail a god from another world to take Ele into his care.  Sagan is a warrior god on his planet and every bit as powerful as Ele. He is also the epitome of what every woman thinks a god should look like. Without seeing Ele, he promises to keep her safe and keep his distance. After seeing Ele, he doubts if he can keep his word.

At the start we meet Ele, our heroine, and her sisters, who fear their sister in law is planning on doing something bad to Ele.  Normally, Ele could handle herself, as she is one of the most powerful goddesses, but the sisters decide to make sure she is safe.   They call upon a warrior god, Sagan, to protect her and after being convinced, he takes Ele to his planet. Even though she is surprised, Ele knows why she is on this planet, and takes it upon herself to womanize the planet which is bare everywhere.  Slowly, Sagan finds himself attracted to her, and tries to win her over.

When Sagan goes away for awhile to handle his bad brother, he returns to find that his home, and his warriors have totally changed, due to Ele’s influence.  When his brother returns, he decides to make Ele his own, and the two battle it out.

What follows is a battle that will involve Sagan, his brother Chase, and their father, whom Ele saved.  Sagan manages to be a step ahead of Chase, but learns that the danger sits with the father. Will Sagan survive? What happens to Ele when she manages to escape and return home?  You will need to read this short story to find out. 

I really enjoyed this quick read, and was happy with how the story concluded. M.A. Abraham once again gives us a fun story line, with great characters.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided for review

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Dirty Deeds Anthology – Review & Giveaway Tour

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Dirty Deeds Anthology-Faith Hunter, R.J. Blain,Devon Monk,Diana Pharaoh Francis-Review and Giveaway Tour

 

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Dirty Deeds: An Urban Fantasy Collection (Magical Romantic Comedies)
by Faith Hunter, Diana Pharaoh Francis, Devon Monk and R.J. Blain

Dirty Deeds: Urban Fantasy Collection is an anthology with novellas written by Faith Hunter, Diana Pharaoh Francis, Devon Monk and R.J. Blain.  I am a huge fan of Faith Hunter, and reading any novella or short story is a must for me.  I will write a short review on Hunter’s stories, revolving around her Jane Yellowrock series, and can only say that the other books are also part of their series, which I have not read.

 Description:
When the going gets tough, the tough get their hands dirty. Join NY Times Bestselling author Faith Hunter, USA Today Bestselling author R.J. Blain, and National Bestselling authors Diana Pharaoh Francis and Devon Monk on a wild romp where the damsels bring the distress and what can go wrong will go wrong.

Venture into a thrilling spinoff tale from the world of Jane Yellowrock; join vacationing gods in what appears to be a quiet, ordinary town; visit a supernatural hotel where the bedbugs could very well eat you; and dive into the zany, deadly world of the Magical Romantic Comedy (with a body count) series.

In this collection of all-new urban fantasy novellas and other stories, no job is too big or too small—if the price is right.

 

 

Review:

Bound Into Darkness by Faith Hunter
Bound into Darkness takes place between the last two novels in Hunter’s Jane Yellowrock series; the story revolves around Eli Younger and Liz Everhardt. Liz has had a crush on Eli for a while, but after she was seriously injured, she has been in recovery and Eli has not been around.  When Liz gets a call for help to find a missing dog, she asks Eli to help her.   They head to the steep and dark mountain, looking for the dog, only to find Liz encountering a skeletal demon, who comes to life and wanting to possess her.  Liz manages to escape, with Eli’s help and together they build a hedge circle, but time is of essence, as the demon is trying to break through.  To make matters work, a group of rogue werewolves are on the way to kill them.  The question is:  who set this trap to have Liz killed and why?

What follows is an exciting, tense novella that kept my attention from start to finish.  The last half of the book was amazing, as we got to see many of our favorites try to rescue Eli and Liz; including Jane, Cia (Liz’s twin sister, also a witch), Alex, Brute, Lincoln, just to name a few.  We also learn who was behind this trap, which also gets explained more in the next short story; Ties That Bind. I really loved this new addition to the Jane Yellowrock series.

The Ties that Bind by Faith Hunter
Bedelia is the mother of Liz and Cia Everhardt, and she senses something is happening.  Linc Shadrock, who fathered her children, and whom she has not seen in many years, once he became the Master of his territory. When he visits Bedelia late night, he explains about the woman who is threatening to kill her daughters. The Mayhew witches blame Liz for killing one of their own, and they were behind the current attack.  Linc needs Bedelia’s help before he leaves to help save his daughters, with the help of Jane Yellowrock and team. 

Bedelia agrees to call in her witch friends, who had set up a circle from years before, and try to trap the Mayhew leader.  Once the ladies arrive at the circle and set up the trap, they find themselves under attack by both witches and werewolves. 

I enjoyed seeing how Linc loved Bedelia, and explained that he still loved her.  That was a nice addition.  Great short story.

Reviewed by Barb

 

As noted above, the stories below just have a glimpse from the description above:
Vacationing gods in what appears to be a quiet, ordinary town; visit a supernatural hotel where the bedbugs could very well eat you; and dive into the zany, deadly world of the Magical Romantic Comedy (with a body count) series.

Sealed with a Tryst by Devon Monk

At Death’s Door by Devon Monk

The Pixie Job by Diana Pharaoh Francis

Doggone Mess by R.J. Blain

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

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Love In the Time of Corona: Vol 2 Anthology – Review

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Love in The Time of Corona: Vol 2 Anthology – Review

 

Amazon

Description:
Seven romances by seven spectacular authors, all set during the coronavirus outbreak. Happy endings guaranteed!
The numbers next to the titles indicate spiciness on a 1-5 scale as judged by each author.

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Defending the Tycoon’s Daughter – Kristi Avalon 4(5) – Romantic Suspense
Escaping a threat against her wealthy family and the global pandemic, Talia Hudson finds herself in an isolated mountain retreat with her handsome, aloof bodyguard. A scandal in Brett’s past gives him good reason to avoid Talia, yet he can’t deny the attraction sparking between them. Will one night of passion lead to regret– or is he ready to risk it all for love?

Review:
Brett is still smarting from his last job, a scandal had him leaving with a black mark on his career and reputation. Joining a new firm, Brett won’t make the same mistake, well that’s what he says, until he sees her….. 

Talia Loves her stepfamily, and all but her stepfather hate her, it’s something she has comes to terms with. And now a threat to her family has her separated from them. Although on the plus side, the new bodyguard is easy on the eyes. 

It’s a fun little read. Bodyguard and heiress is always a little predictable. 

But it’s written well. The fleeting glances, the silent treatment and the denying of ones feelings (and that’s just the bodyguard) 

Loved the video chat with her friends, it’s something a lot of us are doing at the moment. And thank goodness for the canine light relief, you have to love a dog that steers you in the direction of love. 

Luckily we just had the threat of the virus to read and no one came down with it. 

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Ship Mates – Chloe Flowers 2(5) – Contemporary Romance
After a house fire destroys everything she owns, Tara needs a temporary home. In a weak moment, Officer Scott Merrick offers an unorthodox solution: sharing a cabin on his boat. Since he works the graveyard shift and she runs her restaurant during the day, they’ll be like ships passing in the night, which is fine by both of them.
They only communicate by writing notes to each other.
It’s a bad idea to fall in love during a pandemic, but what if they’re soul mates as well as shipmates?

Review: 
Tara is now homeless after a fire. She’s hasn’t got anywhere to go. And with this virus that’s about, Tara doesn’t want to risk making anyone unwell. Being offered a bed from the hunky police offer is ok, isn’t it? She’s known him forever, best friend with his sister, and it won’t be for long….. 

Scott has always been the responsible one, his job at the police station suits him. And after the fiasco with “she who will not be named” he’s a confirmed bachelor. So giving a friend a bed for a few nights won’t be a problem. And as Tara was his sister’s best friend growing up, she’s practically family. But it’s been a few years since he’s seen her, and now she’s all grown up, but he’s on nights, how hard will it be to avoid her? 

Liked this story a lot. Loved the idea of post it notes, that did make me chuckle. And it was a great way to communicate (Scott worked nights and Tara worked days) 

Lucy the parrot made me chuckle and I loved Larry the police dog (every time Lucy told him to sit he did I had to laugh) 

The boat made for an unusual setting, the confined space that Tara and Scott were forced to share made for a different read. 

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Viral Dance – Sheridan Jeane 3(5) – Contemporary Romance
Free spirit Lily Lennon and CEO Josh Graves are opposites, or are they? When circumstances throw them together in a Mt. Rainier cabin during the pandemic, she’s determined to have him teach her to waltz. Can these two dance their way into one another’s hearts?

Review:
Lily’s a dog/house sitter, she works from the hosts home. But with the outbreak of the virus that’s sweeping the country, the owner of both dog and home is due back and lily has to move on, but she’s got nowhere to go, well there is the mountain retreat she can go to….. 

Josh has had three months away, not a holiday, but a retreat, after what can only be called a breakdown, Josh is back and ready to take back his company. But he’s a different man, less about the profit margin and more about his employees. 

A free spirit and an uptight CEO, (except he’s not really uptight anymore) 

Had to admit it wasn’t my favourite in this short story read. But there were a few laughs. Loved the dog Orwell. Liked how Josh thought about asking Lily about before he went to his retreat, but missed opportunities and all that. 

The dancing moments were a lot of fun to read. 

Both finding things about one another that appealed to them. 

The virus might have brought them together, but I think josh would have made his move eventually. 

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Choosing My Own Bananas – Becky Lower 1(5) Seasoned Romance
Claire has lived her life alone and free. But now, as an aging single, she’s facing the coronavirus by herself, and it’s the first time she’s been uncomfortable with her decisions. She ignores her sister’s advice and decides to take advantage of her local grocery’s early Senior Hour to do her own shopping.
Widower Bert can’t believe his luck. The mysterious woman from the health club pool is right behind him in line, waiting for the store to open. He and his friend call her Esther Williams, but now he might get to know her real name. And hopefully a whole lot more.

Review:
Bert a retired policeman with plenty of spare time on his hands. With his local spa closed due to the virus, Bert hasn’t got a lot to do but think, and lots of that time thinking has him thinking of a plan of action, he’s seen a lovely lady who he’d like to know better, but he doesn’t know her name, or where she lives, maybe fate will smile down on him and give him a break…..

Claire’s a control freak, she likes thinks done a certain way, and that’s why she stuck in a queue for her food shopping. She writes romance books, but even that isn’t holding her interest at the moment. She needs a little inspiration…..

This one had me smiling all the way through. A very gentle romance, dog walking (with a dog that’s not his) crazy golf (well golfing in a golf cart) and silly emails that brought a smile to both their faces. 

She’s a feisty control freak with a wicked set of one liners. He’s a man with a plan of action. 

Wooing in a time of lockdown presents it’s own set of challenging rules. No invading of personal space for one!! 

Being a widower has made Bert realise that life is too short, so he goes after the one thing that’s been on his mind for a while. 

Claire is a little more controlled, she likes a certain routine. 

So will Bert capture the fair maidens heart? Well he has her interest peaked, so who knows. 

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The Royal Muse – Judy McDonough 2(5) Contemporary Romance
New Orleans artist, Melody Landry, is done with relationships and cheating men. She’d much rather paint her frustration into money-making masterpieces.
Reece Thomas has had enough heartache for two lifetimes. He’d rather drown his sorrows with his trumpet and whisky than give anyone else a chance to rip his heart out.
Love was the last thing on their minds—until they found each other.
Can the healing powers of music and art bring two bitter souls together in the midst of a pandemic?

Review:
Reece doesn’t want anything more than a bottle to drown out his pain. Two years since the end of his marriage, and a mugging that left him with a constant and painful reminder of how much he lost. His only joy is his music, oh and the cute little artist he spied painting and singing from her balcony. 

Melody loves living in the French Quarter, her artists heart simply adores it. Inspiration runs well here, and even more so on a Thursday evening, her musical inspiration comes from her neighbour, his beautiful music gives her pieces a flow that she just can’t contain. 

But this evening he’s late, and Melody can’t help but wonder as to where he is….. 

I liked this one very much. 

Melody has been hurt before, so she’s not looking for romance. Reece can’t move on from his mugging and failed marriage. 

They’ve known each other a while now, but only from a distance, not a word has passed their lips to each other, but like calls to like, and a tentative friendship springs up.  

So how will a romance spring from this? And when an opportunity arises will they both take it? 

Beautifully written, that could have happily been a longer story. 

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Espresso. Paper. Love. – L.A. McGinnis 1(5) Contemporary Romance
A stir-crazy actress charms her way into a young doctor’s life from the neighboring apartment building. It’s one thing to exchange notes and coffee in a crisis, it’s another to deny their growing attraction.

Review:
Olivia is going to be an actress, well once she gets her big break, but until then it’s serving coffee to the masses. 

She has her regulars that she smiles and says hi to. Including her neighbour “Brandon S” he always smiles and a quick thank you. But after not seeing him at his home for a few days, she takes the initiative and decides to wave….. 

Brandon is suppose to be concentrating on knee surgeries and spine realignments, but with the virus taking a grip, it’s all hands to help. He’s so tired, but he can’t let anyone down. Most of his days he’s on automatic pilot. But today would be a turning point …..

As the time goes by, Olivia and Brandon do more and more together, of course noting the social distancing. Both want more as they’ve gotten to know each other. But when Brandon gets ill, how will Olivia cope? 

Loved the concept of paper plane post it notes. 

I loved Brandon and his thoughtfulness, he could see Olivia was struggling, and to thank her for a coffee and chat he suggests a walk. And it just takes off from there. 

This one deals with people who are now scared to leave their own homes. You feel you shouldn’t be out, not even to exercise. And I’m sure a lot of readers will relate too. 

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Tipsy – Jen Sako 1(5) New Adult Romance
Barbera Piedmont works in one of Manhattan’s top restaurants alongside a hot sommelier named Cavan Mills. One fateful night furloughs them both and there seems to be no end in sight. To Barbera’s surprise, Cavan contacts her for help keeping his career on track. Through a virtual connection, they share wines along with their fears and dreams. Barbera can’t help wondering what will happen to their digital relationship when life returns to normal. Will her services no longer be needed, or will these strange and dangerous times end in love?

Review:
Barbera or “Barbie” enjoys her job. Meeting new people, greeting regulars and catching up with friends she works with. 

But somethings wrong, guests aren’t coming in, some are cancelling their tables, some tables don’t even bother to phone to cancel. 

And when the restaurant is finally closed due to this virus, Barbera wonders what she’s going to do to keep herself occupied. 

Cavan loves his job, wine is his hobby and his passion. He wants to be the best, so an exam is in order. He wanted his girlfriend to help, but being in a different time zone makes it difficult. 

So he asks Barbera to help (after his girlfriend advised to ask a server for help) 

The wonderful World Wide Web came to the fore in this book. 

A sommelier (wine steward or a professional connoisseur) and server come together over wine. Barbera has had a crush on Cavan ever since she clapped eyes on him, so she jumps at the chance to spend time with him. 

As time goes by Barbera falls for Cavan, but it all comes crashing down when his girlfriend makes a surprise return home. Barbera is no longer needed, but the chats they had been having gave her concern, Isabella wanted Cavan to give up his passion and help her run a winery. 

She had to convince Cavan not to give up his dream. 

This one I had mixed feelings about. Loved the on-line wine tasting, i had to chuckle with the drunk chatting. 

I did feel Cavan was only interested in Barbera as help for him wine exam. But was totally surprised with his declaration to Barbera. 

 

Reviews by Julie B

Copy supplied for review

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Snowed in For Christmas Anthology by Noelle Adams, Samantha Chase & Zoe York-a review

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SNOWED IN FOR CHRISTMAS Anthology by Noelle Adams, Samantha Chase and Zoe York-a review

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 23, 2018

Three all-new holiday novellas about couples finding love while trapped together in the snow.

Stranded in the Snow (Holiday Acres, Book 2) by Noelle Adams

Olivia Holiday doesn’t expect to spend the weekend stranded in a romantic cottage during a snowstorm with the one man she dislikes the most. Scott is a player and holds a grudge against her family, and she’s determined not to give in to the deep feelings for him she’s been hiding.

A Christmas Rescue (Silver Bell Falls, Book 4) by Samantha Chase

Saving a litter of puppies right before Christmas was incredibly rewarding for Bailey Walsh. But getting snowed in with her sexy-yet-grinchy veterinarian boss turns out to be rewarding in a whole other way.

Love on the Edge of Reason (Pine Harbour, Book 8) by Zoe York

Tom Minelli doesn’t know why Chloe Davis has fled Pine Harbour, but she’s pregnant with his baby and he wants her back. But a winter storm rolls in just as he finds her, trapping them together in a cabin on the lake.

••••••••

NOTE: My reviews covers Samantha Chase and Noelle Adams only

A CHRISTMAS RESCUE (Silver Bell Falls #4) by Samantha Chase

REVIEW: A CHRISTMAS RESCUE by Samantha Chase follows the acrimonious relationship between veterinarian Dr. Gavin Maguire , and office receptionist Bailey Walsh. The holidays are just around the corner, and Silver Bell Falls Pet Clinic has lost the Christmas spirit thanks to Dr. Gavin Maguire or Dr. Grinch as his employees have started to call him. Unable to stand Gavin’s Scrooge-like behaviour Bailey and the staff decorate the office for Christmas only to be threatened with their jobs within hours of arrival. Unwilling to stand down, Bailey hands in her resignation but quickly finds herself as the veterinarian’s assistant when a homeless lab goes into labor at a downtown shelter, and a snow storm shuts down Silver Bell Falls. What ensues is the quick building romantic relationship between Gavin and Bailey when Bailey becomes snowbound in Gavin’s apartment, and the potential fall-out as Gavin’s past continues to eat away at his heart and his soul.

A CHRISTMAS RESCUE is a sweet story of acceptance,understanding, love and moving forward. The premise is engaging; the romance is passionate-the $ex scenes are implied and fade to black; the characters are colourful, dynamic and stubborn. Samantha Chase invites the reader to Silver Bell Falls where love truly does conquer all.

____________

 

STRANDED IN THE SNOW by Noelle Adams is a contemporary, adult , stand alone romance story line in the author’s Holiday Acres Series. This is marketing and advertising coordinator Olivia Holiday, and photographer Scott Matheson’s story line.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Scott and Olivia) STRANDED IN THE SNOW follows the enemies to lovers relationship between event coordinator Olivia Holiday, and photographer Scott Matheson.

There is some bad blood between the Holiday and Matheson families, bad blood that has resulted in a long standing feud over ownership of the Holiday family owned Holiday Acres in central Virginia. Hoping to get an early look at one of the cottages for an upcoming photo shoot, Scott and Olivia find themselves snowbound in the Holiday Acres honeymoon cottage, where food is in abundance but the power and heat are in short supply. Emotional and overly sensitive, Olivia struggles with her nearness to a man she loves to hate. Time together means reminiscing about events of the past, and the realization that not all is as it seems. What ensues is the enemies to lovers relationship between Scott and Olivia, and the potential fall-out as Scott struggles with demons from his past.

STRANDED IN THE SNOW is a fast paced, entertaining and heart breaking story line. There is some back story and history between the Matheson and Holiday families but the current generation is pushing aside the poison and lies that all but destroyed two families.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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The Cottage on Pumpkin and Vine by Kate Angell, Jennifer Dawson & Sharla Lovelace – a Review

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The Cottage on Pumpkin and Vine by Kate Angell, Jennifer Dawson & Sharla Lovelace – a Review

 

The Cottage on Pumpkin and VineAmazon / B&N / Kobo / BAM / The Book Depository

Description:
Welcome to Moonbright, Maine…Where the scents of donuts and cider waft through the crisp night air…with just a hint of magic.
 
It’s time for the annual Halloween costume party at the cottage on Pumpkin and Vine, the perfect place to celebrate the pleasures of the season. Guests return to the picturesque B & B year after year to snuggle up in its cozy rooms, explore the quiet, tree-lined streets and enjoy all the spooky fun of the holiday. But local legend whispers that it’s also a place where wishes have a strange way of coming true.
 
For three unsuspecting revelers, it’s going to be an enchanted weekend of candy corn kisses and midnight black kittens, along with some real Halloween surprises—the kind that make your heart skip a beat—for many more celebrations to come…

 

 

Review:

The Cottage on Pumpkin and Vine is an anthology of three novellas that take place at the same B & B during Halloween.  I will give you a brief description of each story.

Charmed by You by Kate Angell
Grace is our heroine, who is in the process of decorating the B&B where the Halloween party is; she hires Cade, who owns a moving company.  Grace comes across as very bossy, and Cade’s men are ready to leave when they break for lunch.  Cade, out of loyalty to the B&B owner, stayed to help out Grace. 

During lunch, Amelia Rose, who magically shows her off  tarot cards or her crystal ball, which she does at her Halloween party. Neither Grace nor Cade had any interest in each other, but soon slight accidents kept pushing them together and the heat between them became electric. 

I thought both Grace and Cade were not very well likeable, but that did change fairly quickly.  It was a short fun story, as we watched an unlikely pair discover each other.  It was also enjoyable to see all the Halloween decorations, and Grace giving out her Halloween costumes to the kids.  Nice story with the perfect Halloween theme.

Mesmerized by You by Jennifer Dawson
Another sweet Halloween short story about friends to lovers.  Jake and Chloe have been best friends since childhood, which covers about 30 years.  Chloe forces Jake to take a needed break from his work (he is a doctor), and go to visit her Aunt Iris. They learn quickly that her Aunt’s house needs some repairs, and they will have to stay over at her friend, Amelia Rose’s house, which will also include a Halloween party.  Chloe loves the idea, but Jake isn’t thrilled.

What follows is a fun story, where Amelia Rose shows them her crystal ball, and gives them magical cookies.  Slowly, as they walk around the grounds or share the lone room that is left, they begin to notice each other in a different light.  They both were great characters, and it was fun to watch them begin to be attracted sexually to each other, and try to fight it off.  After all, they are just friends, but maybe just maybe, everything they both wanted was right in front of them.  This was a fun sweet romance, and a happy ending.

Enchanted by You by Sharla Lovelace

This final story, a second chance romance, was beautifully written by Lovelace. Sidney Jensen is our heroine, who finds herself on the brink of getting fired at the law firm she works for in Boston..   Sidney is given the chance to redeem herself by helping her boss by taking a case in a small town in Maine. When Sidney arrives, she is forced to stay at a B&B, as there were no hotel rooms.  Of course, the B&B belongs to our now famous Amelia Rose.  

Sawyer Finn, our hero, works for Amelia doing construction and other handyman things.  He has lived in Moonbright  since he was 18.  We discover early on that Sidney and Sawyer were love struck teenagers, when Sawyer up and left her without telling her why.  When she sees Sawyer, she tries to run away, since she still feels the hurt that broke her heart, but her car breaks down and she is stuck at the B&B for a few days.  It was fun to watch Sidney and Sawyer rekindle their romance, where in Amelia’s B&B, romances are always magically unavoidable.  Sawyer will explain to her why he had to leave.  Sidney feels herself still in love with Sawyer, as he has always been with her.  She will have to decide if she wants to take a chance again or go back to her job in Boston, which she does not feel recognized.

This was a wonderful romance, a likeable couple and the shenanigans of Amelia Rose to make it an enjoyable and fun read. Though the other two stories were good, I did feel this one was the best.

The Cottage on Pumpkin and Vine was a quick and fun read, and even if we are past Halloween, I suggest you give this book a try.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

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For The First Time Anthology by Alessandra Torre, Kim Karr, Sarah Castille and more-Review and Book Tour

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FOR THE FIRST TIME anthology by Alessandra Torre, Kim Karr, Sarah Castille and more-Review and Book Tour

 

FOR THE FIRST TIME anthology
Release Date: January 12, 2016

 

99¢ ebook  Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ B&N / KOBO / itunes /

Release Date: January 12, 2016

You never forget your first time…

A brand new anthology of original, never-before-read stories from today’s hottest authors, including:

Alessandra Torre, Kim Karr, Jen Frederick, Alexa Riley, Lynda Chance, Sarah Castille, Nina Lane, CJ Roberts, Anna Zaires, Nikki Sloane, Cynthia Sax, Avery Aster, Pam Godwin, Skye Warren, Julia Sykes, Cynthia Rayne, Jenika Snow, Debra Presley, Shoshanna Evers, Tamsen Parker, and Nina Levine!

From young heartbreak to a virginity auction, from the chance meeting to the happily ever after, twenty-one exclusive stories explore first love in all its forms. This set includes almost 200,000 words of steamy encounters and sweet romance.

••••••

REVIEW: FOR THE FIRST TIME is a collection of twenty one never before released short stories and novellas from existing series or stand alone tales by some of your favorite authors. Some of the stories contain graphic sexual text and language as well as M/F, M/F/M or F/F sexual situations and taboo relationships; most are written from first person point of view. This is a collection of contemporary, UF and Sci-Fi romance story lines with a bit of naughty.

Each short story had its’ own positives and negatives. My star rating ran from 2.5 to 4 stars for the individual novellas. While I enjoyed most of the stories, I did have a few issues (including poor story telling quality or the disconcerting premise) with a small number of the short stories.

Take your time. I did a quick breakdown of each short story premise.

Copy supplied by the promoter.

_________________

SOLE by Alessandra Torre

A short story focusing on Cole Masten and Summer Jenkins from Torre’s HOLLYWOOD DIRT, and their three year old daughter’s birthday party. The steam and heat between our leading couple has never wavered, and is hotter and sexier than ever. Contains graphic text and erotic sex scenes.

••••••

BEGGING FOR MORE by Kim Karr

A quick story focusing on James Ashton and Victoria Secret’s model Lindsay Mills first introduced in Kim Karr’s stand alone story line TOXIC and the Tainted Love Duet-Blow and Crush. Our couple take an unexpected trip to Vegas where the morning after isn’t quite what they expected and more. Contains graphic text and erotic sex scenes.

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HEARTBREAK by Skye Warren

A  prequel story focusing on two teenagers in foster care-Blue and Hannah. Blue’s reputation as a killer has preceded his introduction to his new foster care facility but Hannah finds her guardian angel-a hero- in the young man accused of such a hideous crime when she becomes the victim of the foster care system. Blue and Hannah’s story continues in BETTER WHEN IT HURTS released June 2015.

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NAUGHTY WISHES by Sarah Castille

Dan and Kylie’s marriage is dying; their love for one another nothing more than a far off glimmer; Dan offers up a once in a lifetime opportunity to add some spark into their boring marriage-a threesome with town’s hot new dentist.-a man who likes a little kink in his life. Contains graphic text and erotic sex scenes.

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HIS FIRST AND ONLY by Alexa Riley

A second chance story line between Vegas showgirl/ headliner Tiffany Smith (aka Foxy Bow) ,and billionaire casino owner Ethan who first met in the foster care system ten years earlier. Ten years may have passed but the love between Tiffany and Ethan has only grown stronger. Contains graphic text and erotic sex scenes.

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DECADENT KNIGHTS by Julia Sykes

Decadent Knights is a short story from Julia Sykes’ IMPOSSIBLE series focusing on the men and women of the BDSM Club Decadence. Lydia is a former sex slave and submissive, her new Master Smith James-a former FBI agent and the man who is responsible for Lydia’s physical and mental health is looking to add another Dom into the relationship. Read Lydia and Smith’s story in KNIGHT Impossible #4 released in 2013. Contains graphic text and erotic sex scenes.

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A LAKE GEORGE CHRISTMAS by Debra Presley

A short story from Presley’s NUCCI SECURITIES focusing on pop star Abby Murphy and the love of her life Danny Nucci. Their first Christmas together finds a profession of forever and their continuing happily ever after. Abby and Danny’s full story can be found in FINDING US –Nucci Securities #1. Contains graphic sex and erotic sex scenes.

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ADVENT by Nina Lane

A short story focusing on the earlier relationship between Liv and Dean from Nina Lane’s SPIRAL OF BLISS series. It is the Christmas holidays and Dean has invited Liv to Paris but Liv isn’t willing to give up everything for a couple of weeks in the City of Light. ADVENT looks at Past Firsts and Future First Memories of Liv and Dean. Contains graphic sex and erotic sex scenes.

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LOOKING FOR A COMPLICATION by Tamsen Parker

An F/F short story featuring clinical trial administrator Kinsey Malone, and med student Astrid Zhao. Astrid is a lesbian who is attracted to Kinsey but Kinsey is ambivalent about her sexual status. Contains scenes of spanking, and F/F sexual situations.

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TEST DRIVING THE BILLIONAIRE by Cynthia Sax

A short story focusing on tattooed billionaire Drift Dornan, and his personal assistant Cassie aka Wrench. Cassie is a virgin, in love with her billionaire boss Drift Dornan, and is hoping the man feels the same way about her. Contains graphic sexual language and text, as well as a number of double entendres and sexual references to cars and motorcycles. TEST DRIVING THE BILLIONAIRE is a stand alone novella from Cynthia Sax

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DELAY OF GAME by Jen Frederick

DELAY OF GAME is a friends to lovers short story focusing on Wyatt Majors, and his best friend Lisle Cunningham. For years Wyatt and Lisle have suffered in silence; kept their love for one another a secret but a secret that is only known to the couple in question. When Lisle decides it is time to move on, Wyatt realizes it is time to claim the woman that he loves. The sex scenes are intimate without the over the top graphic text and language. DELAY OF GAME may be part of Jen’s GRIDIRON series but I cannot confirm or deny.

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HER FIRST CHOICE by Lynda Chance

Twenty six year old biker Tyler Copeland, and twenty three year old Whitney a story of second chances of sorts. Whitney is a young woman who just discovered her boyfriend of four years had been cheating so our heroine is out for revenge. Meeting Tyler Copeland, her almost one night fling from years before, finds Whitney facing all of her hard fought fears and emotions. Contains some sexually graphic scenes without the over the top erotic imagery. HER FIRST CHOICE is a short story that covers approximately a year in time.

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SYMPATHY FOR THE DEVIL by Cynthia Rayne

Dolly Perkins and her son are on the run from her abusive husband; the Dixie Mafia protects their own and her husband Clayton Perkins is a card carrying member but a member no longer in good standing. When enforcer Byron Beauregard tracks down our heroine, she is surprised at the message he brings. The lone $ex scene is mostly implied. SYMPATHY FOR THE DEVIL reads like a prequel storyline that ends without satisfaction.

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TRAILER PARK EDEN by CJ Roberts

Seventeen year old disabled twins Parker and Kylee James. Kylee is blind; and Parker is deaf. Both live in a trailer with their abusive father who spends most of his time at the bottom of a bottle. TRAILER PARK EDEN touches on taboo subjects that may offend some readers-you have been warned !

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IT TAKES TWO by Nikki Sloane

Nina Hale is down on her luck and needs a quick influx of cash-and making a porn video is at the top of her list. Contains sexually graphic language, anal sex, and M/F/M sexual situations. IT TAKE TWO is the prequel to Nikki Sloane’s BLINDFOLD CLUB erotic series.

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HEART OF EVE by Pam Godwin

Evie is the only surviving woman in a post apocalyptic war following a plague, nineteen months earlier that all but destroyed the world’s population. Many that survived are no longer human but giant insect like creatures that prey on the humans that do remain. Roark is a priest; Evie’s protector and guardian; and the man who is tempted to break all of his vows. Short on supplies, Evie and Roarke leave their underground sewer in search of goods but come face to face with creatures above. HEART OF EVE falls somewhere in the timeline between book one Dead of Eve and book two Blood of Eve in Pam Godwin’s Trilogy of Eve series. The lone sex scenes is intimate and seductive without the use of over the top graphic erotic sexual imagery.

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STEAL MY BREATH by Nina Levine

Bar owner Luke Hardy and waitress /wanna be author Callie have been eyeing each other for close to a year but Luke has a secret-one that will break Callie’s heart in an instant-once it is revealed. The short story ends on a bit of a cliff hanger-there is more story to tell. Contains a provocative sex scenes without the erotic factor. STEAL MY BREATH is a prequel short story-Callie and Luke’s full length novel comes out in 2016

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RAPUNZEL’S FIRST KNIGHT by Shoshanna Evers

A quick re-invent for adults of the fairy tale featuring the princess Rapunzel, and her hero Sir Jonathon. No sex scenes but features a very naïve princess who is taught the differences between a man and a woman.

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SWEPT AWAY by Anna Zaires

Delia is a human female, and Arus is a Krinar. Delia believes her hero is a mythological god come to rescue her from the raging storms. SWEPT AWAY is a short story from Anna Zaires’s sci-fi romance Krinar Chronicles-The Krinar are an advanced race of beings from another galaxy who have taken control of Earth. The lone sex scene is seductive and romantic without the use of erotic language or text.

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UNIQUE by Avery Aster

UNIQUE is a novella from the author’s MANHATTANITES erotic, romance series. For followers of the series, KiKi Izatt is Taddy Brill’s assistant first revealed in Unscrupulous. UNIQUE follows the trail of blood diamonds from Sierra Leone to Paloma Gems, Brill Inc, Truman Hotels and The Style Gala where Kiki finds herself a victim of a kidnapping. Contains sexually graphic language and text. UNIQUE will be release in a full length story line in April 2016

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OWNED by Jenika Snow

Rose Jonathan needed money. She signed up for an exclusive auction where by she would sell her virginity to the highest bidder. Enter Jaxon Caldwell, Rose’s boss, and the man who would claim Rose as his own. Contains oral sex, spanking, graphic sexual language and text.

 

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What Happens Under the Mistletoe Anthology by Sabrina Jeffries, Karen Hawkins, Candace Camp & Meredith Duran

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WHAT HAPPENS UNDER THE MISTLETOE anthology by Sabrina Jeffries, Karen Hawkins, Candace Camp & Meredith Duran-a review

What Happens Under the Mistletoe

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date October 27, 2015

In this all-new story collection sparkling with sexy charm and heartwarming wit, four beloved bestselling authors reveal the mix-ups and make-ups, the missed chances and golden opportunities that come but once a year.

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MY OVERVIEW: WHAT HAPPENS UNDER THE MISTLETOE is a collection of four holiday-themed historical romance novellas: two storylines focus on second chance romances, while the other two look at cases of mistaken beliefs and a case of mistaken identity. Because of the length of each novella, all of the romances are insta-lust or love; the $ex scenes are limited without the use of graphic sexual language. All of the leading characters befit the time period, while only one novella uses language of the time.

Anthologies are difficult to review due in part to a lack of previous knowledge when some of the novellas are part of an existing series. I am aware that Sabrina Jeffries and Karen Hawkins’s offerings are part of ongoing series but I was unable to confirm the connection for Candace Camp or Meredith Duran.

WHAT HAPPENS UNDER THE MISTLETOE is an entertaining anthology with Christmas/holiday themed novellas for your reading pleasure.

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THE HEIRESS AND THE HOTHEAD by Sabrina Jeffries

Stunned by the heat of an unexpected kiss on a cold winter’s eve, two strangers from vastly different worlds turn hotheaded principles into burning passion in Sabrina Jeffries’s delightful yuletide story, The Heiress and the Hothead.

REVIEW:

THE HEIRESS AND THE HOTHEAD is a novella from Sabrina Jeffries SINFUL SUITORS historical romance series ( a spin off from the Duke’s Men series). This is journalist/writer Lord Stephen Corry, and American heiress/mill owner Amanda Keane’s storyline. Amanda is the sister of artist Jeremy Keane (The Art of Sinning #1). THE HEIRESS AND THE HOTHEAD can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty.

The storyline focuses on the unsafe working conditions in the cotton mills of England, and Stephen’s attempts to bring the atrocities to the public’s attention by reporting and investigating the people and workers. Enter Amanda Keane, an American mill owner who views Stephen’s work as attacks against all mill owners including herself. But a mill fire finds our couple trapped following the rescue of a young boy, and a profession of love and a possible future are made in the heat of the moment.

THE HEIRESS AND THE HOTHEAD is a quick read with a little bit of romance, conflict and a happily ever after. The premise is interesting with a holiday theme; the characters are familiar, colorful and entertaining; the romance is quick to develop- the lone $ex scene is mostly implied with no graphic imagery or text.

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TWELVE KISSES TO MIDNIGHT by Karen Hawkins

In the snowy Scottish countryside, Karen Hawkins’s rakish duke has an unforgettable holiday encounter in Twelve Kisses when the alluring lady he surprises under the mistletoe is not who he expected, but a long-lost love with a score to settle.

REVIEW: TWELVE KISSES TO MIDNIGHT is a Scottish, historical second chance romance between the Fourth Duke of Rothesay Marcus Sutherland, and Lady Kenna Montrose. The novella is part of Karen Hawkin’s Oxenburg Princes series as Crown Prince Nikolai Romanovin, and Grand Duchess Natasha Nikolaevna play a small supporting role throughout the story. TWELVE KISSES TO MIDNIGHT can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty.

The storyline focuses on the rekindling of a relationship between Kenna and Marcus that was destroyed ten years earlier through misunderstanding and male pride. A winter storm finds our couple trapped in a stranger’s bawdy love nest after Marcus is thrown from his horse on way to Kenna’s family cottage. What ensues are Kenna’s attempts at reconciliation, while Marcus continues to find fault with the way their previous relationship ended. TWELVE KISSES TO MIDNIGHT finds our couple stranded together in a cottage completely bedecked for romance and $ex, including some fanciful and graphic paintings upon the walls.

Karen Hawkins adds a little bit of fun and romance with the addition of TWELVE KISSES TO MIDNIGHT where the conflict between sparring lovers is easily resolved with a few well-chosen words leading to a happily ever after. Once again, the $ex scene is mostly implied with no graphic imagery or text. The characters are familiar and colorful; the storyline is entertaining- there is plenty of back and forth, accusations, and questions about love and loss.

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BY AN OTHER NAME by Candace Camp

In By Any Other Name, Edinburgh is aglitter for Christmastime as Candace Camp sends a curious gentleman in hot pursuit of an intriguing lady in disguise—one who refuses to reveal her true identity, though she fears he has already stolen her heart with his kiss.

REVIEW:

BY ANY OTHER NAME by Candace Camp is a storyline of mistaken identity between Rylla Campbell and Gregory Rose. Dressed as a young man Rylla hunts for her runaway, missing eighteen year old in saloons and gaming halls wherein she will meet Gregory Rose-the man who will come to her aid, and steal her heart but a man who is lead to believe Rylla is someone else. With Gregory’s help, Rylla goes in search of her brother only to discover that her brother is already on his way home.

Candace Camp weaves a little bit of mystery and intrigue into an historical romance where our heroine fails to reveal her true identity allowing for a series of mishaps and perceived betrayal. The romance is played out while our couple are on the hunt; like the other storylines the $ex scene is mostly implied without the use of graphic language or imagery.

________________

SWEET RUIN by Meredith Duran

In Sweet Ruin, will the festive spirit of the season sweep Meredith Duran’s feisty heroine beneath the mistletoe—and back into the arms of the dashing rogue whose carelessness soiled her reputation and sent her into exile in London?

REVIEW:

SWEET RUIN by Meredith Duran is a storyline of second chances between Georgiana Trent, and Lucas Godwin. Two years earlier, Lucas walked out of Georgie’s life without saying good bye or an explanation as to why he ran. Fast forward to present day wherein Lucas has been hired by Georgie’s father to search for a ‘stolen’ letter that may or may not be have taken by one of the holiday guests. What ensues is a rekindling romance between Georgie and Lucas where the truth finds our heroine ready to move on from her family home.

Meredith Duran weaves a Christmas tale of lost love, intrigue and mystery where everyone is suspect in the case of a missing letter, but no one is aware that of the investigation or that anything is wrong. The collection of secondary and supporting characters reads like a game of CLUE but the guilty party has not returned home for the holidays. Again, the lone $ex scene is mostly implied.

Copy supplied by the publisher.

Reviewed by Sandy

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Down the Rabbit Hole – Anthology – a Review

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Down the Rabbit Hole – Anthology – a Review

 

Down the Rabbit HoleAmazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / BAM / The Book Depository

Description
You’re late for a very important date…
 
Enter a wonderland of mesmerizing tales. It’s a place that’s neither here nor there, where things are never quite as they seem. Inspired by Lewis Carroll’s whimsical masterpiece, ranging from the impossible to the mad to the curiouser, these stories will have you absolutely off your head.
 
Don’t be afraid to follow them…

DOWN THE RABBIT HOLE

Contains:
Wonderment in Death by J. D. Robb
Alice and the Earl in Wonderland by Mary Blayney
iLove by Elaine Fox
A True Heart by Mary Kay McComas
Fallen by R. C. Ryan
Review:

Down the Rabbit Hole is an anthology loosely based on a Alice in Wonderland theme, consisting of 5 authors, including J.D. Robb and an In Death novella.   I will be writing a review on Wonderment in Death by Robb, as most of you know, I am an In Death fanatic. I will briefly touch base on the other 4 novellas in this anthology.

Wonderment in Death by J.D. Robb

I really do enjoy Robb’s novellas, which gives us more of Eve and Roarke. Anything I can get my hands on that is part of this fantastic series, and time with Eve and Roarke, makes me happy. In Wonderment in Death, Eve must find a dangerous killer, who uses his hypnotic powers & drugs, to make people commit murder. A woman still grieving over the loss of her parents, goes to visit her brother with exciting news about her upcoming marriage. He ends up dead, and she throws herself off the roof to her death. It is up to Eve Dallas, with the help of her gorgeous hubby Roarke, and her team to find out why. Will Eve be able to find out the why and who? Your kidding, right. Eve always finds the killers. 🙂

 

Alice and the Earl in Wonderland by Mary Blayney

I not read this series that precedes this novella. However, it was a nice story about two people, who have difficulties with making their relationship permanent. Alice and Weston are our heroes, and as they travel separately they are whisked away 200 years into the future.

Alice especially cannot get over all the modern things, not to mention how far women have come. Weston finds some idea to help him fix his financial situation back in his time. What made this fun was watching their shocked reactions of the future. When they return to the past, Weston finds away to show Alice that her families past should not stand in the way of them getting married. This was a simple, but cute story.

 

iLove by Elaine Fox:

This was an interesting story, but it really did not keep my interest. It is about a woman who dumps her boyfriend because he pays more attention to his phone then her. He gets sucked into his phone’s ILove app and must llove to get out. This enables both the heroine and hero to learn more about themselves and each other.


A True Heart by Mary Kay McComas:

This was different and interesting, using a slight Alice in Wonderland theme, and even a Christmas Carol (revisiting her life troubles). It was an ok read.


Fallen by R. C. Ryan:

Next to the In-Death novella, this was my favorite story. I really enjoyed our heroines Colin and Beth, and the Highlander background. This was another one of those where the girl goes back in time and meets the man, she was supposed to meet, but in her current time. This was a fun read, though I wished it was a bit longer.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

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