Rebel Hard (Hard Play #2) by Nalini Singh-a review

Posted on September 19, 2018 by Sandy

REBEL HARD (Hard Play #2) by Nalini Singh-a review

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About the Book: Release Date September 18, 2018

Nayna Sharma agreed to an arranged marriage in the hope it would heal the fractures in her beloved family… only to realize too late that a traditional marriage is her personal nightmare. Panicked, she throws caution to the winds, puts on the tiniest dress she can find, and ends up in the arms of a tall, rough-edged hunk of a man who has abs of steel—and who she manages to mortally insult between one kiss and the next.

Abandoned as a child, then adopted into a loving family, Raj Sen believes in tradition, in continuity. Some might call him stiff and old-fashioned, but he knows what he wants—and it’s a life defined by rules… yet he can’t stop thinking about the infuriating and sexy woman who kissed him in the moonlight then disappeared. When his parents spring an introduction on him, the last woman he expects is her. Beautiful. Maddening. A rulebreaker in the making.

He’s all wrong for her. She’s all wrong for him. And love is about to make rebels of them both.

••••••••••

REVIEW: REBEL HARD is the second instalment in Nalini Singh’s contemporary, adult HARD PLAY romance series- spin off from the author’s Rock Kiss series. This is twenty-eight year old, accountant Nayna Sharma, and twenty-seven year old, construction worker/builder Raj Sen’s story line. REBEL HARD can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary. Some of the events of REBEL HARD run parallel to, and cross-over with book one Cherish Hard.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Raj and Nayna) REBEL HARD follows the building relationship between twenty-eight year old accountant Nayna Sharma, and twenty-seven year old construction worker/builder Raj Sen. Having met at a mutual friend’s party Raj and Nayna were unaware that their traditional, Indian backgrounds were about to collide. For weeks, Nayna’s parents have set up several meetings with prospective grooms in an effort to arrange a marriage for their single daughter. Having born the brunt of shame her elder sister’s affair placed on the family Nayna is having nothing to do with the time honoured tradition but outdated ‘arranged marriage’ her parents are desperate to achieve. Enter Raj Sen, the man she met and accosted on a previous occasion, and the man with whom Nayna will fall in love. What ensues is the building relationship between Nayna and Raj, and the potential fall-out as Nayna battles between head and heart, and her need to remain independent in spite of her love and attraction to Raj Sen.

Nayna Sharma wants to do it all-travel the world, explore new places, experience the life she has always dreamed but her parents have other plans for their daughter, including an arrange marriage to a man of their choice. Raj Sen is a successful contractor and builder, and has always dreamt of marriage, children with a stay at home wife-traditional, old school marriage to a woman who lives to serve her husband and family but times have changed, and so too have the women in his life including the woman with whom he has fallen in love. Neither family is above using guilt or shame in their attempts to force a marriage between our leading couple.

The relationship between Raj and Nayna is one of immediate attraction tempered by their dual virginities and family responsibilities. Making time for themselves, Raj and Nayna will go behind their family’s backs to explore the world of dating, and falling in love. The $ex scenes are sweet, intimate and passionate, without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

The colorful secondary and supporting characters including Raj and Nayna’s best friends Sailor Bishop and Isa Rain (Cherish Hard #1), as well as both of their meddling but meant well families.

REBEL HARD is a story of family, tradition, understanding and rebellion. The premise is spirited and realistic; the romance is tender and emotional; the characters are charismatic and energetic.

Just a heads up, as the story line focuses on Middle Eastern and Indian values, some of the language and text may be unfamiliar.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book one-CHERISH HARD

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

Nalini Singh is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the Psy-Changeling, Guild Hunter, and Rock Kiss series. She lives and works in beautiful New Zealand, and is passionate about writing.

If you’d like to explore her other books, you can find lots of excerpts and free short stories on her website. Slave to Sensation is the first book in the Psy-Changeling series, while Angels’ Blood is the first book in the Guild Hunter series.

STALK HER: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Goodreads

Ocean Light by Nalini Singh – Review & Giveaway

Posted on June 12, 2018 by Barb

Ocean Light by Nalini Singh – Review & Giveaway

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Description:
Security specialist Bowen Knight has come back from the dead. But there’s a ticking time bomb in his head: a chip implanted to block telepathic interference that could fail at any moment–taking his brain along with it. With no time to waste, he should be back on land helping the Human Alliance. Instead, he’s at the bottom of the ocean, consumed with an enigmatic changeling…

Kaia Luna may have traded in science for being a chef, but she won’t hide the facts of Bo’s condition from him or herself. She’s suffered too much loss in her life to fall prey to the dangerous charm of a human who is a dead man walking. And she carries a devastating secret Bo could never imagine…

But when Kaia is taken by those who mean her deadly harm, all bets are off. Bo will do anything to get her back–even if it means striking a devil’s bargain and giving up his mind to the enemy…

Review:

Ocean Light by Nalini Singh is the 2^nd book in her Psy Changeling Trinity series. Nalini Singh continues to be one of my top favorite authors, as I love the Psy-Changeling series, now her spinoff series, Trinity and of course, Singh’s Guild Hunter series. No one does world building so smoothly and flawlessly better than Nalini Singh. Once again, in Ocean Light from the start Nalini grabs hold of me and never ever lets go until the very end. The sad part of this, is that I can’t put it down and read it too fast; but it’s fun to go back and reread it as I can savor it slowly. I have said this so many times, if you have not read Nalini Singh, you are missing such a gem of an author.

In Ocean Light, Bowen Knight is our hero; someone that in previous books, was more the enemy than a friend. But with the end of Silence, enemies will begin to bond and work together to fight off the Consortium, who are trying to destroy the new found peace between the Changelings, Human Alliance and Psy. When we last saw Bowen, he was shot and thought dead; when he wakes up, he has no idea where he is. Dr. Atalina Kahananui explains that he is in Black Sea (water changelings) territory and they have been working to save his life. She reminds him of the chip many humans have in their brain which prevents Psy intrusion, but the chip is close to failure. They might have a cure, but it is very risky, as the chip will soon break and kill him. Bowen agrees to allow them to test the possible serum that the Doctor has been working on, which only has a 5% chance of survival, but as low as that percentage is, it is still better than sure death. He will be the guinea pig to save his friends and other humans.

Kaia Luna is Attie’s (Dr. Atalina) cousin, and part of her family. She is an empath, as well as a scientist, which she gave up awhile ago to become a chef. Kaia enjoys cooking, she is very popular, as everyone loves her. To help a pregnant Attie, Kaia makes sure to help monitor Bowen, and happens to be there when he awoke. While talking to Attie, Bowen senses the cold angry feelings coming from Kaia, as well as an attraction he cannot understand. He will learn that her best friend is missing, and is feared to have been taken by the Alliance. When Bowen explains his people would never do that, he sets out to get proof who is kidnapping people from Black Sea.

In a short time, despite her contempt toward humans, whom she blames for the death of her family, Kaia will begin to see Bowen in another light, and her attraction to him grows stronger with each passing day. Time is of essence, as Bowen only has weeks for the serum to be injected. Will Bowen survive?

What follows is a beautiful romance between two unlikely people, with so much chemistry between them that sizzles the pages. I loved Bowen and Kaia together, and felt her pain, as she falls very much in love with him, knowing she could lose him soon. Bowen is a strong leader, and is determined to help find the traitor who is hurting Black Sea, and at the same time show Kaia how much he loves her. This was a wonderful romance, though very emotional. Kaia was such a wonderful, caring, loyal, fun loving heroine, who also has her own issues (phobia) that limits her. You couldn’t help but love her, just as all the members of Black Sea did.

The last third of the book was very exciting and tense trying to find the traitor within the Alliance, and also in Black Sea. When Kaia becomes a victim, Bowen will go to any length to try and find her, which could have consequences later. It was also great to get to see some of our favorites make short visits to help Black Sea and Bowen. To say too much more would be spoilers, and you need to read this book from the start.

I can’t say enough about Nalini Singh, as she never fails to captivate me with her engaging stories, which keeps our interest from beginning to end; wonderful couples in each and every story; super secondary characters and fantastic world-building. Ocean Light was a great romance, but also a tense suspenseful story trying to survive and find those responsible for the kidnappings. Once again, if you have not read the Psy-Changeling series, you need to go back and start with the first book, you will not be sorry; it is a fantastic adventure that we are happy is continuing in the Trinity arc.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

Nalini’s publisher, Berkley, is offering a hardcover copy of OCEAN’S LIGHT to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe

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

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Cherish Hard (Hard Play #1) by Nalini Singh-Review & Excerpt Tour

Posted on November 17, 2017 by Sandy

Cherish Hard (Hard Play #1) by Nalini Singh-Review & Excerpt Tour

CHERISH HARD
Hard Play #1
by Nalini Singh
Genre: Adult,contemporary, sports, romance
Release Date: November 14, 2017

Cherish Hard

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date November 14, 2017

Sailor Bishop has only one goal for his future – to create a successful landscaping business. No distractions allowed. Then he comes face-to-face and lips-to-lips with a woman who blushes like an innocent… and kisses like pure sin.

Ísa Rain craves a man who will cherish her, aches to create a loving family of her own. Trading steamy kisses with a hot gardener in a parking lot? Not the way to true love. Then a deal with the devil (aka her CEO-mother) makes Ísa a corporate VP for the summer. Her main task? Working closely with a certain hot gardener.

And Sailor Bishop has wickedness on his mind.

As Ísa starts to fall for a man who makes her want to throttle and pounce on him at the same time, she knows she has to choose – play it safe and steady, or risk all her dreams and hope Sailor doesn’t destroy her heart.

•••••••••••••

Sandy’s Review

CHERISH HARD is the first instalment in Nalini Singh’s contemporary, adult HARD PLAY erotic, romance series-a spin off from the author’s ROCK KISS series. This is twenty three year old landscaper Sailor Bishop, and thirty year old teacher/businesswoman Isalind ‘Isa’ Rain’s story line. CHERISH HARD can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty-you do not have to have read the Rock Kiss series to understand or follow the premise. The timeline of CHERISH HARD takes place several months ( or years) prior to the events of Rock Hard (Rock Kiss #2) where in we were first introduced to Sailor’s older brother Gabriel Bishop.

Told from dual third person point of view (Isa and Sailor) CHERISH HARD follows the building romance between teacher and businesswoman Isa Rain, and professional landscaper Sailor Bishop. Seven years earlier Sailor and Isa’s paths would cross when Isa’s boyfriend publicly humiliated our story line heroine in front of a group of high school and college aged friends. In the ensuing years Sailor has never forgotten the beautiful and heartbroken redheaded young woman that called to his heart-a woman who barely acknowledged his existence or presence. Fast forward to present day wherein Sailor will be hired by the burgeoning and billion dollar ‘Crafty Corners ‘ to redesign and update several properties. Enter Isa Rain, Crafty Corners new VP, shareholder and owner’s daughter, and the woman with whom Sailor will fall in love. What ensues in the building relationship and growing love between Sailor and Isa, and the potential fall-out as Sailor’s plans for the future never took into consideration the desire for family and love.

CHERISH HARD is a story of family and friendship. Isa’s mother and father have been married and divorced so many times she is unable to keep track of the growing numbers but our heroine’s lack of success in the love department is predicated on one man’s tirade that left Isa a shell of her former self. Sailor Bishop has known struggle from an early age including the abandonment by his father, and the battle his mother endured to keep the family fed, and off of the streets. Meeting Isa Rain finds our hero thinking about a future-a future that is in direct conflict with his business outline and plans to expand, but plans that are meant to be redirected when he falls for the woman he met years before. Growing up the privileged daughter of a wealthy businesswoman whose less than stellar track record of unsuccessful marriages meant Isa martyred herself to care for her younger siblings, and a step brother that has all but been ignored by both sides of the family.

The relationship between Isa and Sailor begins when they reconnect with one another in the school parking lot where Isa currently works. Barely recognizing once another their paths will cross several times before either one realizes the who and what of their previous encounter. The $ex scenes are intimate and intense.

We are reintroduced to Sailor’s brother Gabriel (Rock Hard), a professional rugby player; their younger half-brothers Jake and Danny, and parents Alison and Joseph Esera; Isa’s domineering mother and billionaire businesswoman Jacqueline Rain; her half-sister Catie, and step brothers Trevor and Harlow, as well as Isa’s best friend Nayna- a woman who is battling her parents in regards to her future.

CHERISH HARD is a sweet story of romance where the conflict level is low; the angst is limited to dysfunctional family fallout; and memories of the past that remained burned in the mind but never to be forgotten. The premise is engaging and inspiring; the characters are dynamic and intelligent; the romance is provocative and impassioned. CHERISH HARD is a charming and wonderful start to a new series by an amazing author.

Barb’s Review

Cherish Hard by Nalini Singh is the first book in her new contemporary romance Hard Play series. Cherish Hard was a sweet fun and sexy romance that is not my normal Nalini Singh read. I really did enjoy this romance, mainly because the couple and all the supporting characters in the story were simply great. Sailor Bishop is our hero, and from the start you fall in love with him. He is hot, sexy, swoon worthy, and the perfect man for any woman to want.

Isa Rain was also a great heroine, though it will take awhile before she allows herself to fully fall in love with the wonderful sweet Sailor. Isa remembers Sailor from her teenage days, when one of his friends embarrassed her in public, and she has never forgotten. When she realizes he had nothing to do with that awful memory, she allows herself to befriend and slowly open her heart to Sailor.

Isa, who would prefer to teach and write poetry, is forced to work during the summer for her mom, who is determined to bring Isa fully into the business. She must take over a new project for the company, which will turn out to be working with Sailor, and his landscaping business. Isa is also the one who keeps her family together, as she is the glue who keeps the peace, both in happiness and financially.

What follows is a fun, lighthearted romance, with the background of two wonderful families, and a couple that was simply great together. Sailor is determined to make his business grow, but has financial issues. Isa just wants to do what she likes, which isn’t working for her mom. It is Sailor’s hard work and determination that keeps Isa fighting her feelings for him, since she wants a life of children and a husband to love, who will always be there for her. Sailor knows that Isa is the woman for him, and he has to find a way to convince her that he is the man for her.

Again, all the characters created by Singh made this a wonderful story. I loved Sailor’s family, and Isa’s sister and brother. It was so much fun to see both families together. Eventually even Isa’s mother gets better, and Isa’s best friend was fun. Cherish Hard was a fun, cute story that was such a pleasure to read; not to mention a couple that had so much chemistry together, it burned the pages. If you want a pure romance, with a sexy couple, family, and a fun read look no further then Cherish Hard. It goes without saying, anything written by the wonderful Nalini Singh is not to be missed.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

______________

Cherish Hard teaser

Excerpt

ÍSA WONDERED WHAT THE HELL she was doing.
Being a devil woman, she reminded herself. Having fun for a change. Not being a grandma at twenty-eight years of age.
Still, she couldn’t stop second-guessing herself as Sailor led her out of the house through a side entrance that opened out into a small, manicured garden. “I’ll have to take off my heels,” she whispered when she saw the pebbled path snaking through the garden.“Want a piggyback ride?” A playful grin. “I promise not to molest your thighs.”
Goose bumps broke out over Ísa’s skin, her nipples tight. Reckless as she was feeling tonight, she might just have taken him up on his offer if she hadn’t been worried her damn dress would split in two. “Maybe when we’re naked,” she said instead, Devil Ísa in full flower.
Groaning, he doubled over as if she’d punched him.
Her lips twitching despite the melting sexual heat liquefying her bones, she leaned down to slip off her heels.
Sailor waited, his hand firm around hers, until she was done. Taking the heels from her, he carried them in his other hand as Ísa padded beside him on the grass that lay on this side of the pebbled path. The path ended at a weathered wooden gate, which, when opened, put them at the top of a narrow walkway that led down onto a beach Ísa couldn’t yet see but could hear.
Her heart crashed in time with the waves as they made their way down to the beach while the mansion behind them pulsed with light and music. But she didn’t turn and run away, she didn’t stop and talk herself out of it, she didn’t attempt to be a sensible adult. She followed a gorgeous, blue-eyed man down a dirt pathway to an effectively private beach.
The sand that had been tracked onto the path was gritty under her feet, the air coming off the sea cool but not cold.
“The water’s going to be icy, isn’t it?” she whispered to his broad back.
“Don’t worry, spitfire. I’ll keep you warm,” was the deep-voiced response. “Stop here.” Jumping down to the beach, he reached up to grab her by the waist, swinging her down as if she were a featherweight.
Something fluffy and mushy came to life inside Ísa. “Here?”
Shaking his head, he said, “Raj told me there’s like a little cove area—not a proper cove, but caused by— There.”
Ísa saw it at once. A huge tree had fallen into the water at some point and smashed up against some rocks where it appeared to be stuck. Between the jutting rocks on either side and the fallen trunk was a naturally created pool. The water within it was pretty calm, and it looked as if they could get to it by clambering over some rocks that didn’t appear too sharp or slippery.
Of course, she’d be walking over those rocks naked.
Ísa looked up at the moon. Imagined it shining on the stark white of her body. Gulped. “Will you close your eyes while I go in the water?” Even Devil Ísa wasn’t up for blinding him with her glow-in-the-dark form.
A glance back. “What’re you going to bribe me with?”
Ísa scowled. “Not pushing you into the water right now.” It was a toothless threat given his muscles and her lack of them.
Rubbing his jaw, he said, “Three tongue kisses. That’s my price, and I’m not budging.”
Ísa wanted to pounce on him all over again. “Two,” she countered.
“Nuh-uh. Three. Or I’m keeping both eyes wide open.” Leaning in, he pressed his nose to hers. “I really want to keep my eyes wide open.”
And Ísa really wanted to kiss him and run her hands all over that sculpted chest. “Three,” she whispered.Copyright © 2017 by Nalini Singh

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Archangel’s Viper by Nalini Singh – Dual Review & Giveaway

Posted on September 26, 2017 by Barb

Archangel’s Viper by Nalini Singh – Dual Review & Giveaway

Archangel’s Viper
Guild Hunter series – Book #10
by Nalini Singh
Release Date: September 26, 2017

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Description:
Once a broken girl known as Sorrow, Holly Chang now prowls the shadowy gray underground of the city for the angels. But it’s not her winged allies who make her a wanted woman—it’s the unknown power coursing through her veins. Brutalized by an insane archangel, she was left with the bloodlust of a vampire, the ability to mesmerize her prey, and a poisonous bite.

Now, someone has put a bounty on her head…

Venom is one of the Seven, Archangel Raphael’s private guard, and he’s as infuriating as he is seductive. A centuries-old vampire, his fangs dispense a poison deadlier than Holly’s. But even if Venom can protect Holly from those hunting her, he might not be able to save himself—because the strange, violent power inside Holly is awakening…

Sandy’s Review:

ARCHANGEL’S VIPER is the tenth full-length installment in Nalini Singh’s adult GUILD HUNTER dystopian/UF/paranormal series focusing on Archangel’s, angels, vampires, shifters and hunters. This is vampire Venom, one of the Seven, Raphael’s private guard, and newly Made ‘vampire’ Holly Chang. ARCHANGEL’S VIPER can be read as a stand alone but I recommend reading the series in order for background and cohesion as many events in the current time line are as of a direct result of previous happenings and premises.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Venom and Holly) ARCHANGEL’S VIPER focuses on the search for the person(s) responsible for placing a five million dollar bounty on our heroine’s head. With the Cascade-an event that causes massive power fluctuations and other changes among the members of the Cadre- in motion, the Archangel Uram’s bloodlust was out of control, and Holly Chang became one of his victims to survive. Although destroyed by the Archangel Raphael, the fallout of Uram’s mindless brutality has left our heroine lost; without direction; not knowing the who or what of her newly ‘made’ body, Enter Venom, one of Raphael’s private guards known as the Seven, and the man with whom Holly will fall in love. As Holly and Venom struggle to uncover the truth behind the five million dollar bounty, Holly is pulled in another direction-a pull she is unable to ignore.

The relationship between Venom and Holly is acrimonious; a love-hate relationship that pushes the boundaries of mentor and friend. Their back and forth snarky banter is sexually charged but Venom doesn’t do relationships believing himself too damaged to fall in love towards a happily ever after. Venom’s Maker gifted our hero with a lethal poison that few can survive and finding a kindred spirit in newly made Holly Chang gives our hero a potential prospect for the future-a future with an unknown expiry date due to inexplicable talents and powers of our story line heroine. Holly Chang’s Maker was killed by the Archangel Raphael but what remains behind has taken control of its’ victim, leading her on a journey to the other side of the world. With Raphael sequestered with the meeting of the Cadre of Archangels, Holly and Venom follow the pull of the darkness within.

Unlike many of the other story lines in the series ARCHANGEL’S VIPER is limited in the amount of action; there are no battles or fight scenes except the internal battle Holly wages with herself and the ‘other’.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including the leader of the group of Seven Dimitri, Jason, Janvier, Ashwini, Illium, Guild Hunter Vivek Kapur, Angel Kanasha, Archangel Michaela, several members of The Legion, and a number of lesser known vampires including Daisy, Holly’s acquaintances Magnus, Zeph and Arabella as well as Holly’s human sister Mia, and their parents Allan and Daphne Chang. Raphael makes a cameo appearance as Holly battles the other for control.

ARCHANGEL’S VIPER is a fantastic story of friendship, family, power and control. Holly Chang is a woman desperate to understand the who and what of her growing power-every day her abilities begin to mimic Archangelic abilities and the only explanation is no longer alive. The premise is spirited and energetic; the characters are passionate and inspiring; the romance is passionate but slow to build-the $ex scenes are limited and mostly implied. ARCHANGEL’S VIPER is a compelling and enticing story line where one of Raphael’s Seven finds his heart and his happily ever after.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

Barb’s Review:

Archangel’s Viper by Nalini Singh is the 10^th book in her wonderful Guild Hunter series. I say this quite often; Nalini Singh is one of the best authors around, and the fact I love both her Psy/Changeling and Guild Hunter series proves how good she is. Nalini writes fantastic stories in different worlds that flow so seamlessly, and each book just grabs hold of you at the start and never lets go till the very end. I do feel bad for those of you who do not read Nalini Singh, as you are missing an amazing author. On to my review.

We met both Venom and Holly, our heroes in this book, early in this series when he saved her from sure death. Holly had been tortured by an insane Archangel, Uram; and she had witness the horrifying deaths of her friends. Though she is considered human, Holly was left with abilities she gained from Uram’s vampire blood coursing in her body. Her acid green eyes; ability to mesmerize others; has a poisonous bite (which Venom also has, but he is immune to Holly’s bite); and does require blood, which she minimizes as much as she can.

Venom, is one of Rapheal’s Seven, and very dangerous, but loyal to the Seven, as well as being different from the others. After being away for two years, he returns and Holly was sent to pick him up. Venom not only was the one who saved Holly, but he also is the one who tries to teach her to control the violent impulses she has. However, they have never gotten along, both always antagonizing each other. Venom enjoys pushing Holly’s buttons, and she just hates him. Holly has changed since she was first rescued, and Honor (Dimitri’s mate), has worked with her on her emotional stability, as well as Janvier and Ash training her how to fight as a warrior. She is tough, smart, and fights off an inner voice that wants to control her. When Venom and Holly drive to the tower, someone attacks them trying to kidnap Holly. It seems that someone has a bounty on her head. Dimitri and Venom begin to worry what is it about Holly’s blood that warrants a 5 million dollar bounty?

When Venom and Holly start working closely together to find out who is trying to kidnap her, they begin to see each other in a different light. They were the same in many ways, allowing them to be their normal self in front of each other, and in a short time their relationship will escalate in an unexpected romance. Venom sees that Holly is fighting something deep inside her, and she will tell him the truth about an otherness she feels. Besides the mystery of who is trying to kidnap her, the main focus of this story is finding out what/who is trying to control Holly.

What follows is an addictive and captivating story with Venom and Holly following the trail that is pulling her into the lands of another Archangel. Venom and Holly surprised me how much I fell in love with this fantastic couple, and they sizzled together. The last half of the book was such a thriller, with many twists and turns right to the very end. I can’t tell too much more, as I do not want to ruin this for you, but I loved Archangel’s Viper, as well as a couple that totally won me over.

Nalini Singh once again gives us a wonderful addition to this fantastic series. She is an author whose flawless skilled writing simply has me in awe. I have never failed to love every single one of her books in both series. If you have not read the Guild Hunter series, what are you waiting for?

Copies provided by Publisher

Nalini Singh

I was born in Fiji and raised in New Zealand. I spent three years living and working in Japan, where I took the chance to travel around Asia. I’m back in New Zealand now, but I’m always plotting new trips. If you’d like to see some of my travel snapshots, have a look at the Travel Diary page.

I’ve worked as a lawyer, a librarian, a candy factory general hand, a bank temp and an English teacher, but not necessarily in that order. Some might call that inconsistency, but I call it grist for the writer’s mill.

I’ve been writing for as long as I can remember. All of my stories held a thread of romance, even when I was writing about a prince who could shoot lasers out of his eyes. Creating unique characters and giving them happy endings is my favorite thing. I even love the voices in my head, so there’s no other job I’d rather be doing. When I got the call in September 2002 that Silhouette Desire wanted to buy my first book, Desert Warrior, it was a dream come true. I hope to continue living the dream until I keel over of old age on my keyboard.

To learn more about Nalini Singh, you can follow her on the following links:
Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

giveaway

Nalini’s publisher, Berkley, is offering a paper copy of ARCHANGEL’S VIPER to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe

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

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8. Giveaway runs from September 26 to October 1, 2017

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Silver Silence by Nalini Singh – Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

Posted on June 13, 2017 by Barb

Silver Silence by Nalini Singh – Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

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Silver Silence
Psy-Changeling Trinity series
by Nalini Singh
Release Date: June 13, 2017

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Description:
Control. Precision. Family. These are the principles that drive Silver Mercant. At a time when the fledgling Trinity Accord seeks to unite a divided world, with Silver playing a crucial role as director of a worldwide emergency response network, wildness and chaos are the last things she needs in her life. But that’s exactly what Valentin Nikolaev, alpha of the StoneWater Bears, brings with him.

Valentin has never met a more fascinating woman. Though Silver is ruled by Silence—her mind clear of all emotion—Valentin senses a whisper of fire around her. That’s what keeps him climbing apartment buildings to be near her. But when a shadow assassin almost succeeds in poisoning Silver, the stakes become deadly serious…and Silver finds herself in the heart of a powerful bear clan.

Her would-be assassin has no idea what their poison has unleashed…

Review:

Silver Silence by Nalini Singh was another fantastic read in her Psy/Changeling series, which is now in a 2nd arc,Psy/Changeling Trinity. Upon completing the book, I was thrilled to feel that though we have newer characters, the main element of Changelings , Psy and Humans remains and thus we have many more super stories to come in this fabulous world.

In Silver Silence, which takes place in Moscow, Silver Mercant is our heroine, and a Psy. Silver, is a stone cold psy, still ruled by Silence, and is the heir apparent leader of the Mercant family; the director of the new EmNet (worldwide emergency response network), and she works for Kaleb Krychek.

Valentin Nikolaev, our hero, is a bear changeling and the alpha of the Stonewater Bears. Valentin is obsessed with Silver, and is determined to find a way to get her to feel something for him. When he makes an appearance at her home, bringing business papers, she collapses. Valentin will get immediate help and in the process will save Silver’s life.

Between Silver’s grandmother, Valentin and Kaleb, the decision is made to protect Silver, who was poisoned, and help her recuperate by going to Denhome, Valentin’s territory with the bears. They will protect her with their lives, especially Valentin, and the Mercants will investigate who is behind the attempt on Silver’s life.

What follows is the continuing of the war dividing the peace accord between Changelings/Psy and Humans. There are two factions (Consortium-HAPMA) that threaten the peace accord (Alliance, Trinity Accord, EmNet), trying to kill those deemed important to the structure , such as Silver and/or Humans willing to work with the Trinity accord. Singh’s complex and fantastic world building gives us more to comprehend in this intriguing world that we have come to love. What makes this story so good is watching Silver begin to feel emotions, and finds herself falling for Valentin. This was such a beautiful romance between two people so different, and yet so right.

I loved Valentin; he was fun, sweet, protective, and determined to win her love. He was the perfect person to slowly open up Silver to a different world. I loved how the Stonewater Bears opened their arms to Silver, accepting her, and in time, she learns to accept and enjoy living among them. I also enjoyed getting to know Silver’s grandmother, the current powerful leader of the Mercants. As for Silver, what an awesome heroine; I loved loved Silver, as she was tough, smart, powerful, and a true leader. It was so emotional to watch her cope with her feelings that began to surface. Once again, an awesome romance, with an awesome couple.

But just when our couple have found the impossible, their happiness is short lived, as things do go wrong, which brings Silver back to the emotionless life she had before. Will she find a way to love Valentin or will she go fully back to Silence?

I have said this before, and will do so again. Nalini Singh has become my go to author and in every single book she writes in her Psy/Changeling and Guild Hunter series, her stories never fails to captivate me; hold my interest from start to finish; giving us such wonderful characters, including the awesome couples and fantastic world-building. I am totally in awe how Nalini can constantly create such perfection. Bravo to Nalini Singh. If you have not read the Psy/Changeling series (both arcs), you are seriously missing a great series and a fantastic author.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

excerpt

“Laughing at the cubs’ antics, Valentin jogged down the slight incline and waded into what had to be ice-cold water after kicking off his boots and socks. He splashed the cubs, laughed when they splashed him back. Running so they could chase him, he turned abruptly and chased them back, to their unhidden joy.
Silver took a seat on the grass. When the female bear looked her way, she inclined her head in a silent greeting. The bear did the same, then they both watched an alpha bear play with two energetic cubs, his hands holding rough care for their small bodies.
By the time Valentin made his way back to her, he was drenched and his eyes weren’t human in any way. When he spoke, his already deep voice was so low it felt like thunder against her skin. “Couldn’t resist,” he said, pushing back his wet hair with one big hand. “If you weren’t in recovery and if I wasn’t in terror of Nova’s wrath, I’d have invited you. The small monsters wanted to play with you.”
Silver didn’t get to her feet. “Can we stay here a little longer?” It was patent that Valentin had an extremely high tolerance for the cold, but he might want to dry off.
“Sure,” he said, and, moving away several feet, shook off the wet.
Fine droplets settled on the skin of her cheek, but she didn’t flinch at the unintentional tactile contact. She also controlled her urge to reach up and touch the water where it lay against her skin. There was no reason to do that, and Silver was alive because she only did things that were rational.
Settling beside her, Valentin waved at the cubs as their guardian led their tired forms toward a path in the trees that was at the same level as the stream. “Gentler climb,” Valentin told her.
“They seem too exhausted to make it to Denhome.”
“It’s all an act—they’re hoping for a ride on their aunt’s back.” His tone held the same fond affection she’d heard when he spoke of Dima. “It’d take more than a few minutes’ play in the water to wipe out those two.”
The cubs had played with Valentin for almost a half hour. “They’re hyperactive?”
“They’re baby bears.”
Silver watched as those baby bears turned toward her and rose up on their back paws, as if in challenge. A stern sound from their caretaker, and they dropped down and scrambled to catch up with her. Their bodies disappeared into the trees as dusk began to turn from orange to shadowy gray.
Beside her, Valentin sprawled out, bracing himself on his elbows. His drenched T-shirt clung to the ridged muscles of his abdomen, pulled tight across his pectoral muscles, shaped itself over his shoulders. His jeans weren’t much better, outlining the raw muscle of his thighs.
Valentin Nikolaev was a man of violent physical strength even in human form. Yet he clearly had iron control over it; when he’d played with the children, they’d displayed zero fear of their alpha.
“You thought about where you’re going to live when you escape the bears who’ve kidnapped you?”
When she raised an eyebrow at him, he grinned. “Fringe netter with his own Internet channel sent out a breaking report last night. Pasha—who obviously needs more work duties—made up a fake account and posted a comment swearing to have seen you being pulled into a black van by six burly bears in bear form.”
“You don’t seem too concerned.” Amber eyes and deep voice, he remained very much a bear in human form.
“Well, according to this ‘eyewitness,’ the getaway driver was in bear form, too. Must’ve been tough for him to steer with one paw since he was drinking a beer at the same time.”
“Bears,” Silver said, making Valentin throw his head back and laugh that huge laugh that wrapped around her.

About the author
Nalini Singh
I was born in Fiji and raised in New Zealand. I spent three years living and working in Japan, where I took the chance to travel around Asia. I’m back in New Zealand now, but I’m always plotting new trips. If you’d like to see some of my travel snapshots, have a look at the Travel Diary page.

To learn more about Nalini Singh, you can follow her on the following links:
Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

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Archangel’s Heart by Nalini Singh – Dual Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

Posted on November 1, 2016 by Barb

Archangel’s Heart by Nalini Singh – Dual Review & Giveaway

Archangel's Heart

Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / BAM / The Book Depository

Description:
One of the most vicious archangels in the world has disappeared. No one knows if Lijuan is dead or has chosen to Sleep the long sleep of an immortal. But with her lands falling into chaos under a rising tide of vampiric bloodlust, a mysterious and ancient order of angels known as the Luminata calls the entire Cadre together to discuss the fate of her territory.

Accompanying her archangelic lover Raphael to the Luminata compound, guild hunter-turned-angel Elena senses that all is not as it seems. Secrets echo from within the stone walls of the compound, and the deeper Elena goes, the uglier the darkness. But neither Raphael nor Elena is ready for the brutal truths hidden within—truths that will change everything Elena thinks she knows about who she is…

Nothing will ever be the same again

Barb’s Review:

Archangel’s Heart by Nalini Singh is the 9^th book in her wonderful Guild Hunter series. I loved this book, but no surprise, as Elena and Raphael were the focus of this story. I always love anything about them, as they are a fantastic couple.

In Archangel’s Heart, all the members of the Cadre (ruling Archangels) are summoned by the Luminata, an ancient group of angels, to a meeting they cannot refuse. As we already know, Lijuan, one of the most powerful archangels, is either missing or dead. The meeting in Morocco will force the Cadre to determine the fate of Lijuan and her territory.

Raphael and Elena with Aodhan for support head for Lumina. Elena knows that the Luminata have stored records that cover just about everything from the beginning of time, and she is determined to use her free time to learn the truth about her family. Raphael, Elena and Aodhan can tell from their arrival that things are not as they seem; something isn’t right. What follows is an exciting story filled with details that flawlessly continue the world building that Nalini is a master at.

It was fun to see all the Archangel’s together again in one place, as they try to decide how to handle Lijuan’s title, and determine if she is dead or alive. They know the situation could be volatile, if they have to battle a crazed, but ultra powerful ancient archangel. I also enjoyed seeing more of Aodhan, and watching him become more confident in bringing himself to be more visible again. There is so much more we can learn about Aodhan, and I look forward to the time he will have his own book.

While the Archangel’s meet, Elena and Aodhan visited the huge multilevel library of records. Elena will begin to learn a little, until she senses that something bad is hidden deep in the dungeons of the library. Elena is also not comfortable around the Luminata leader, who seems to be enamored by her. As the hidden secrets of Luminata are revealed, the danger escalates, revealing terrible truths. To tell too much more would be spoilers. All I will say is that Nalini Singh has once again given us a wonderful addition to this fantastic series. I could not put the book down, with the last half of the book totally mesmerizing me. Needless to say, Nalini always continues to wow me with every book in both of her super fantastic series. If you have not read this series or anything by Nalini Singh, you are missing one of the best authors in the literary world that never fail to give you fantastic continued world-building, exciting, great characters & sexy stories.

Sandy’s Review:

ARCHANGEL’S HEART is the ninth full-length installment in Nalini Singh’s contemporary, adult GUILD HUNTER dystopian/UF/paranormal series focusing on Archangel’s, angels, vampires, shifters and hunters. This is Archangel Raphael, and his consort Elena’s continuing story with a little bit of Aodhan aka Sparkle thrown in for some good measure. ARCHANGEL’S HEART can be read as a stand alone but I recommend reading the series in order for background and cohesion as many events in the current time line are as of a direct result of previous happenings and premises.

Told from third person perspective ARCHANGEL’S HEART follows Elena and Raphael as they journey to Morocco, Elena’s maternal grandmother’s homeland. The Luminata have called a meeting of the Cadre of Ten-the most powerful Archangels in order to make a decision about Lijuan’s lands. With the vampiric blood lust increasing, and villages destroyed by the marauding vampires, Lijuan’s lands must come under control. As the Cascade approaches (an apocalypse of sorts that will see the Archangels at war and the destruction of mankind), and Lijuan all but dead or chosen Sleep, the Luminata have demanded something be done. But not all is well in the Luminata stronghold, and something evil lurks within the walls and the hierarchy of controlling angels. Secrets, lies, betrayals and revenge haunt the halls and hidden rooms of the Luminata.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including Aodhan aka Sparkle who accompanies our leading couple as Elena’s guard. Aodhan and Illium aka Bluebell have had a falling out, and their friendship struggles as Illium worries about the once-broken man. The action is limited; there are no wars or mid-air fights but we do see the tense negotiations between the Cadre of Ten, and learn a little bit about the tempestuous relationship between the Archangels in charge.

ARCHANGEL’S HEART reveals our heroine’s family history- Morocco holds the secrets to Elena’s past-a past that is haunted by hatred and betrayal. Elena and Raphael’s relationship continues to build-their love for one another an unbreakable bond. The premise is wondrous and enchanting; the characters are spirited, energetic and charismatic; the romance continues to blossom and build-Raphael and Elena’s love is passionate and intense- our heroine is strong and resilient as Raphael’s consort. Nalini Singh’s Guild Hunter series is a wonderful and breathtaking look at the power of the Archangels and the people they rule.

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

Excerpt beige

Raphael’s response was silent, his wing brushing hers as he . . .

“Raphael!” The damn archangel had dusted her.

Glittering, sparkly stuff stuck to her, delicious beyond compare when she parted her mouth and it licked onto her tongue. Her thighs clenched. “This is not funny!” She glared at him even as arousal flooded her system, but he was laughing too hard to care.

Her heart, it just stopped.

Even now, the Archangel of New York rarely laughed and never like this. Until she could see the youth he must’ve once been, with eyes of a wild, astonishing blue that asked a woman to laugh with him. She’d never before seen him as truly young. How could she? He had so much power that it pulsed in his every touch, burned in his skin.

Hauling him close to her with her hands fisted in the cream linen of his shirt, she took a kiss, took him. He sank into her, his wings sweeping up to wrap around her until all she could sense was Raphael, all she could taste was him. And angel dust. The special blend he’d created just for her.

He pushed one hand into her hair, fisting it as he wrapped his other arm around her waist and backed her up against a wall. Something fell with a dull thud. Maybe the vivid painting of wildflowers that had just been put up, all the art having been taken down during the repainting.

Elena loved that simple piece Honor had found in a thrift shop, but right now, it could’ve been a priceless artwork by the Hummingbird and she wouldn’t have cared. She was far too happy to be pressed up against the hard warmth of her archangel tip to toe after spending the previous night on watch. No time for shenanigans with Dmitri away and Illium off-shift, Aodhan assigned to patrol the sea border, and Raphael dealing with the overall security situation.

She’d flown a proper defense grid, both to stay in practice and because none of them could afford to be blasé with the Cascade an unpredictable foe that could unleash itself at any moment, smashing the world back into chaos and, possibly, war.

Today, however, the others were on‑shift and she could kiss her lover. He burned hot, Raphael, but he was a crashing sea in her mind, a tumultuous, passionate storm that swept her up and thundered through her veins.

We can talk to Dmitri later, she sent to Raphael, sliding her hands up the ridges and valleys of his chest. Let’s go upstairs to our suite.

“A‑hem.”

She tried to ignore that pointed cough that held a biting amusement.

Raphael’s lips smiled against hers. I think my second has other ideas.

About The Author beige

STALK HER: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

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Nalini’s publisher is offering a paper copy of ARCHANGEL’S HEART to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe

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

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8. Giveaway runs from November 1 to 5, 2016

Wild Embrace by Nalini Singh – Review & Giveaway

Posted on August 23, 2016 by Barb

Wild Embrace by Nalini Singh – Review & Giveaway

Wild Embrace
Psy/Changeling series – Book 15.5
by Nalini Singh
Release Date: August 23, 2016

Wild Embrace Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo / BAM / The Book Depository

Description:
The “alpha author of paranormal romance”* presents a stunningly sensual collection of four all-new Psy-Changeling novellas, in which taboos are broken, boundaries are crossed, and instincts prove irresistible…

Echo of Silence
In a deep-sea station, Tazia Nerif has found her life’s work as an engineer, keeping things running smoothly. But she wants nothing more than to break down the barrier of silence between her and her telekinetic Psy station commander…

Dorian
A changeling who can never shift lives a life of quiet frustration—until he learns how to let his leopard come out and play…

Partners in Persuasion
Still raw from being burned by a dominant female, wolf changeling Felix will never again risk being a plaything. But for dominant leopard Dezi, he’s the most fascinating man she’s ever met. She just has to convince this gun-shy wolf that he can trust the dangerous cat who wants to take a slow, sexy bite out of him…

Flirtation of Fate
Seven years ago, Kenji broke Garnet’s heart. Now the wolf packmates have to investigate the shocking murder of one of their own. And the more Kenji sees of the woman Garnet has become, the deeper he begins to fall once more. But even his primal instincts are no match for the dark secret he carries…

Review:

Wild Embrace by Nalini Singh is book 15.5 of her fantastic Psy/Changeling series. Wild Embrace is a collection of 4 new novellas. Those of you who have followed my reviews, know that I am a huge fan of Nalini Singh, and this series is my all time favorite. It is always wonderful to review a psy/changeling story, but what I find amazing is how much I also enjoy every single short story or novella that Nalini gives during the course of every year. They are so much fun.

To do a review on novellas is difficult, so I will try to give you my thoughts, as the descriptions are above.

Echo of Silence: This was a very sweet story featuring a Psy and human, taking place in the earlier days. Tazia is our human heroine, who is an engineer at a deep sea station, and Stefan is our Psy hero. Tazia has been away from home for a long time, having left her family to do what she enjoys. But she still yearns to hear from them. Stefan senses Tazia’s emotions, everytime the mail comes and nothing is for her. Being a Psy, with silence, he does not truly understand those emotional feelings of Tazia. With the station having a month long break, Stefan is on his way to help an area hit by an earthquake. Since she is alone, he tells Tazia to come and help with the search and rescue, What follows is a nice slow build romance between two people totally different. As Tazia watches Stefan push himself over and beyond to savee, she realizes that he does have some emotions. They will both fall in love, as she is the perfect mate to bring Stefan out of silence and he will help bring her back to her long lost family. Very nicely written.

Dorian: I loved this one, even if it was the shortest of the four. Dorian has always been one of our favorites, and it was so great to see his story when he was a child who could not shift to his wolf form. In his book, Hostage to Pleasure, we see him finally find his mate, and his wolf. But Nalini has given us a wonderful look at the hours after he finally shifts for the first time, and we spend this time with his pack as they all join in the fun with Dorian. This was such a wonderful and fun story. Thank you, Nalini.

Partners in Persuasion: Desiree (Dezi) is the dominant femal e leopard from Dark River. She is attracted to Felix, who is submissive wolf from SnowDancer. Felix has had a bad relationship with another dominant female, and refuses to allow himself to act on Dezi’s advances. Dezi does her best to try to not intimidate Felix, and perhaps just be friends, though that is difficult for her, since she wants so much more. It is a slow build relationship, with two people whom we can to adore, and wanted them together. Another story that Nalini writes so well, allowing us to see Felix begin to fall for Dezi, and learn to build his confidence and trust. Nicely done.

Flirtation of Fate: It was great to see Kenji and Garnet’s (Jem) story. Garnet’s heart was broken 7 years ago by Kenji, who in those days was known for being a fun loving womanizer. But we see early on that he loves Garnet, and deep down, he is hiding a secret to the truth from years before. Both Kenji and Garnet are leaders of their pack within SnowDancer.

This is a slow build romance, but the main part of this story is a murder investigation that Garnet is in charge of. Kenji will join her to help resolved this difficult and puzzling case. It was a very nice mystery, which had us stumped almost to the end. I loved seeing both Kenji and Garnet eventually find their way to each other, especially when Kenji finally reveals the truth. Another great story in this anthology.

Wiid Embrace was a wonderful enjoyable anthology that held my attention throughout. I am not usually an anthology fan, but I loved every moment of this book. Once again, if you have not read this fantastic series, you are missing a gem. You need to go back and start with Slave to Sensation and see for yourself why Nalini Singh and her Psy/Changeling series are my all time favorites.
Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

Nalini’s publisher is offering a paper copy of WILD EMBRACE to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe

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

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Rock Wedding (Rock Kiss #4) by Nalini Singh-Review, Book Tour & Giveaway

Posted on July 19, 2016 by Sandy

ROCK WEDDING (Rock Kiss #4) by Nalini Singh-Review, Book tour and Giveaway

ROCK WEDDING
Rock Kiss #4
by Nalini Singh
Genre: adult, contemporary, rock star, romance
Release Date: July 19, 2016

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 19, 2016

After a lifetime of longing for a real family, Sarah Smith thought she’d finally found her home with rock star Abe Bellamy, even if she knew Abe didn’t love her the way she loved him. But their brief relationship, filled with tragedy and heartache, nearly destroyed her. Alone, emotions in turmoil, and already shaky self-esteem shattered, Sarah struggles to pick up the pieces in the wake of their divorce.

Abe knows he’s to blame for the end of his marriage. Caught in a web of painful memories, he pushed away the best thing in his life – the sexy, smart woman he adores – breaking them both in the process. Then fate throws him a second chance to get things right, to prove to Sarah that she means everything to him. Abe desperately wants that second chance at love…even if he knows he doesn’t deserve it.

But can he convince Sarah – now strong and independent without him – to risk her wounded heart one more time?

••••••••••

REVIEW: ROCK WEDDING is the fourth and final full-length installment in Nalini Singh’s contemporary, adult ROCK KISS romance series focusing on the members of the rock group Schoolboy Choir. This is Schoolboy Choir’s keyboard player/vocalist Abe Bellamy, and business entrepreneur Sarah Smith-Bellamy’s story line. ROCK WEDDING can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty although I recommend reading the series in order for backstory and history.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Abe and Sarah) ROCK WEDDING is a story of second chances and happily ever afters. Throughout the series the reader becomes aware of the rocky relationship between Abe Bellamy and his (ex) wife Sarah Smith-Bellamy but the truth behind Abe’s destructive behavior comes to light in the current story line. Two years together and a devastating loss find our heroine running towards freedom, a divorce and a new start to life. Fast forward to present day wherein Sarah finds herself the victim of another relationship that goes horribly wrong, and Abe comes calling hoping for a second chance. What ensues are Abe’s attempts to become a better man, a better husband and a better friend to the people he loves.

ROCK WEDDING is an emotional story line; a story about overwhelming loss, the destructive nature of addiction, and the struggle to forgive and move forward. Abe’s story is heartbreaking-a man unable to let go of the grief and guilt from his past. Sarah is a woman whose earlier years were filled with rejection and abuse. Wanting a family to call her own is everything Sarah had hoped and dreamed but her marriage to Abe was anything but. Abe’s addictions and subsequent verbally abusive behavior pushed our heroine over the edge and into the arms of something worse.

The relationship between Abe and Sarah is one of second chances. Abe’s past treatment of Sarah is reprehensible and destructive not to mention the accusations meant to destroy the human psyche. Rehab and working towards a cleaner lifestyle find Abe hoping for a second chance with the woman he has always loved. Abe’s grief and guilt will forever remain but he must learn to deal with the emotional and physical fall out of his actions. In the end both Abe and Sarah are stronger for the losses they have endured. The $ex scenes are provocative and intense.

All of the previous story line couples and characters play secondary and supporting roles. There are several weddings, proposals and marriages as each member of the band gets his happily ever after. The world building focuses on second chances and forgiveness-the music, the tours, and the band are secondary to the story and almost non existent. There are some issues of repetition and redundancy but easily overlooked.

ROCK WEDDING is the final installment in the Rock Kiss series but Nalini Singh has revealed she will be writing a few novellas and short stories to update the reader on some of our favorite Schoolboy Choir romances, and the potential for a spin off series in the works. The story line saw the evolution of four relationships culminating in a series of weddings and celebrations. The premise is entertaining and emotional but the angst is limited to the events of the past; the characters are broken but strong; the romance is a second chance at a happily ever after.

Reading Order and Previous reviews
Rock Addiction
Rock Hard
Rock Courtship
Rock Redemption

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

excerpt

Sarah sat on the floor of her living room, books spread out all around her.
Having worked nonstop for days, she’d given herself the afternoon off. First, she’d gone to see her son. The anniversary had rolled around again, and though she hurt, this month wasn’t one of the bad ones. She’d talked to him, told him about her day, left him with a kiss.
Her plan for the rest of the day had been to get into her pj’s and curl up on the couch with Flossie to binge-watch a favorite television series. Then had come the buzz at the gate that made her heart thunder and her skin flush… and the delivery of a most unexpected package.
I hope you’re doing okay today. Say hi to Aaron for me. I’m sorry I threw your books in the pool. I was a dick. – Abe
Sarah stared at the note card again, still not certain she was reading it right. The first two lines, they turned her throat thick, but the rest… He’d been so high that day that she’d have bet her business he had no memory of the ugly incident. Sarah had never forgotten it: she could still feel the wrenching ache of the sobs that had overwhelmed her as she tried futilely to fish out books that had been well and truly drenched.
Abe, meanwhile, had moved on to throwing the pool furniture into the shimmering blue water.
Her fingers trembled as she picked up a leather-bound copy of Jane Austen’s Persuasion. It matched the other Austen novels he’d sent her, the set a lovely reissue packaged for collectors. Beside the fancy collector’s editions lay cheerful paperbacks with laughing couples and/or dogs on the covers.
She stifled a wet laugh. He’d clearly chosen those at random, but it was cute that he’d remembered she liked romances with animals in them. Half the time when she’d read to him or talked to him about her favorites, she’d thought he was mostly asleep. It hadn’t mattered—she’d just liked being with him.
The most surprising book in the package was the one about the entrepreneur who’d gone from rags to riches on stubborn grit and sheer determination.
It gave her a funny, fluttery feeling in her tummy to realize Abe really did take her business endeavor seriously. It wasn’t mockery, not when he’d gone to the effort of choosing these other books with her likes specifically in mind. He’d thought she’d like the book because she was an entrepreneur too.
Her eyes burned.
Her hand went to her phone, but she hesitated, the memories of her awful loneliness while she’d been with Abe holding her in place. Curling her fingers into her palm, she picked up the television remote instead.
She had to keep her distance if she was to have any chance of protecting her battered heart. Because this Abe? The one who sent her flowers and books and who dropped by to make sure she was all right? He was more dangerous than the man who’d broken her to pieces.

About The Author

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Tag Archives: Nalini Singh

Rebel Hard (Hard Play #2) by Nalini Singh-a review

REBEL HARD (Hard Play #2) by Nalini Singh-a review

Ocean Light by Nalini Singh – Review & Giveaway

Ocean Light by Nalini Singh – Review & Giveaway

Cherish Hard (Hard Play #1) by Nalini Singh-Review & Excerpt Tour

Cherish Hard (Hard Play #1) by Nalini Singh-Review & Excerpt Tour

Archangel’s Viper by Nalini Singh – Dual Review & Giveaway

Archangel’s Viper by Nalini Singh – Dual Review & Giveaway

Silver Silence by Nalini Singh – Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

Silver Silence by Nalini Singh – Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

Archangel’s Heart by Nalini Singh – Dual Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

Archangel’s Heart by Nalini Singh – Dual Review & Giveaway

Wild Embrace by Nalini Singh – Review & Giveaway

Wild Embrace by Nalini Singh – Review & Giveaway

Rock Wedding (Rock Kiss #4) by Nalini Singh-Review, Book Tour & Giveaway

ROCK WEDDING (Rock Kiss #4) by Nalini Singh-Review, Book tour and Giveaway