Tag Archives: Rachel T.

Misbehavior (Death Dwellers MC 3) by Kathryn Kelly-a review

Posted on by
12

Misbehavior (Death Dwellers MC 3) by Kathryn Kelly- a review

 

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 17, 2014

Matthew “Val” Taylor, the Road Captain in the club, was introduced to sex at an early age. Saved from the streets by the club’s Enforcer and President years ago, Val now lives for women and the open road. Until the night the only woman he’s ever loved is almost killed. Val determines to change his ways and be the man Zoann Donovan should have and the father their son deserves.

Zoann has loved Val for a long time. Violence and bitter betrayal forces her to ignore her feelings and distance herself not only from the sexy RC, but her beloved brother, too. Until she discovers the truth. Can Zoann ever be forgiven for all the pain she’s caused? Will Val overcome his own demons and have a future with her and their son? Who will survive in an MC filled with lust and revenge, love and hate?

Warning: This is a tale of rape, murders, deception, heartache, lies, and infidelity. The road to redemption is a tumultuous struggle where only the strong survive and justice is served…Outlaw-style.

REVIEW

5 out of 5 for this reader folks!

Responsible reviewer alert. This is a hard core motorcycle club series. You WILL find extreme language, violence, drug use, lots of sex, abuse, severe angst, and lots of “OMG did that just happen?” moments. You WILL also find some incredible characters, family bonds that run crazy deep, yummy hot bikers who like their naughty and love deep, tough woman who love their tough men and a story line so completely engaging that you will have trouble putting this book down.

Man Kathryn Kelly, you write one hell of a book. Misbehaviour is the third book (with some amazing novellas in between) of the Death Dwellers MC series. This story focuses on Matthew “Val” Taylor and Zoann Donovan (the Prez’s sister). These two are so damaged together and apart, it’s a wonder if they ever really find their way. With a child already born and another on the way, it’s incredible the lengths that these two go to hurt the other and then on the other page love each other. It’s such a contrast … but some how it adds to this brilliant storyline.

The book goes into the past and while some secrets were revealed in the previous books, this time Kathryn takes us into the gut wrenching depths. I tell you, knowing what happened in the past and then reading a first person POV is completely different. Zoann has been a serious bitch in the past few books and many times I wanted to smack her .. but after reading her story I wanted to just give her a big hug. Same goes with Val. We are taken back into present time where the last book left off and all the other pivotal characters have a strong presence. There are people that want to take the Death Dwellers down and our bikers will go to great lengths to protect their club.

I am not going into any details of this book as there is so much and it’s such a complicated story line. You absolutely need to read the first books of this series. I will say that while there is so much ugly, it only highlights the pretty all that much more. I will warn you .. if you are an emotional reader like I am, then you will be absolutely exhausted after reading this. I joke with Kathryn Kelly that I have to get into a certain mind set to read one of her books .. by the end I feel like I have been on a roller coaster in hell and heaven and I need to read a a gushy fairytale to sort me out. LOL

If you can handle the grit and grime please give this series a go. It’s so unique than other MC series out there and I applaud Kathryn Kelly for going to certain places that other authors will not go to. Thank you for another amazing book that once again leaves me wanting for more. Thank you for making me fall in love with so perfectly imperfect characters. THANK YOU!

Misled
Misappropriate
Misunderstood
Misdeeds
Misbehavior

HAPPY READING!

Copy supplied by the author

Reviewed by Rachel T.

Share

The Traitor / The Laird (Captive Hearts 2 & 3) by Grace Burrowes-a review

Posted on by
11

The Traitor / The Laird (Captive Heart 2 & 3) by Grace Burrowes -a review

Captive Hearts series

5 out of 5 for this reader folks!

What?? Another 5 star review for Grace Burrowes?? I know .. hard to believe (INSERT ROLLS EYES) … not so hard to believe actually! This review consists of the next two books in her Captured Hearts series and she absolutely delivered yet again.

I feel like a broken record writing my reviews for this incredible historical romance author, and honestly I am running out of creative ways to say how much I love her. So insert the massive GUSH GUSH GUSH right now and I’ll just get to the reviews and my personal thoughts. WINK!

Click HERE for Rachel’s review of THE CAPTIVE (book 1) in Grace Burrowes CAPTIVE HEARTS series.

•••••••••••••••••••••••••

The TraitorThe Traitor
Captive Hearts 2
By Grace Burrowes

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO /
Release Date: August 5, 2014

DESCRIPTION

As a young boy, British-born Sebastian St. Clair was abandoned in France and forced to join the French army in order to survive.

Now that the war is over, he has returned home to his beloved England, and is determined to live a quiet life as a country gentleman. He believes that his wish is about to come true when he begins to fall for his elderly aunt’s lovely companion, Miss Millicent Danforth.

But the French are not quite ready to let him go, and they’ve devised a devious plot that could destroy everything that Sebastian holds dear. He will have to use all of his wits if he plans on escaping this scheme with his life…and his love.

REVIEW

So .. the hero of this book just so happens to have been the one responsible for the torture of the hero in the first book “The Captive”. You know you have one talented author when they can make you fall in love with the enemy and then convince you that they are truely a hero. Sebastian St Clair (aka Robert Girard) is in fact this treasure of a character. Although Sebastian is English born, circumstances beyond his control pave the way for a French Army career. Set in the Napoleon War era, as a French soldier, Sebastian is ordered to perform “get it done” interrogations on captured English soldiers. Once the war ends, he returns to England and becomes known as Traitor Baron. Many former English officers are now out for revenge and Sebastian is forced into duels, turmoil and in the midst of all this madness he befriends his aunts companion Milly. Milly is exactly the kind of woman that he needs and while her story is not as compelling (don’t worry though, she comes with her own assortment of baggage), the mirror she holds in front of Sebastian is one of truth, kindness, kinship and eventually love! This felt like a book all about healing .. be it Sebastian, Milly and/or those that they had to face on a daily basis. This is a deeper read, with a fantastic follow up to the first book.

____________________________

The LairdThe Laird
Captive Hearts #3
By Grace Burrowes

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO /
Release Date: September 2, 2014

DESCRIPTION

The morning after Michael Brodie marries the lovely Brenna, he marches off to join Wellington’s army, leaving his new wife alone with his unseemly Uncle Angus and an estate to manage.

Ten years later, when Michael finally returns home, he discovers a nest of vicious lies, tales of disloyalty, and most surprising of all, a blossoming love for the woman he left behind.

But his beloved is keeping a dark secret from him. A secret that begins to unfold when Michael’s young sister joins their household, and Uncle Angus’ true nature is revealed.

REVIEW

Small disclaimer here. This book has child molestation woven into the storyline. While Grace Burrowes deals with this topic with maturity and sensitivity, I feel a responsibility in this review to make sure that the reader is aware of this. Grace does have a note at the beginning of the story in warning .. another reason why she is GUSH worthy!

Michael Brodie was first introduced to us in the previous novel The Traitor. We know that he was married just before the war and left his estate affairs to his wife (despite the unconsummated status of this marriage) and Uncle. After ten years and much loss, our scarred hero returns to the woman that he swore to be a good husband to. Brenna is one serious tough cookie. She has been the product of rumour, distrust, doubt and so much more, but she manages to keep her head high and one foot in front of the other. When truth comes to surface and wounds opened up, there is much heartache, patience and true love to be had, and Michael and Brenna truely learn what it means to be married.

So I have said this in many of my reviews .. I don’t like to give too much detail to the story lines (you truely want this first hand from this author) so I don’t. I’d rather concentrate on telling you that you will get a detailed, multi-layered character and story, maturity, action filled, suspenseful and HEA experience. The style is unique and if you have read many of Grace’s books, you will recognize it immediately. I ADORED how all three of the novels in this series are all related and actually give you a huge picture of a how all these characters influenced the other in one way or another. Complex in writing and leaving the reader extremely satisfied!

Keep writing them Grace Burrowes .. if you write it, I will read! LOL

HAPPY READING! 🙂

Reviews by Rachel T.

Share

Devotion ( The Seductor Series #3) by B.L. Wilde-Review and Release Day Blitz

Posted on by
9

Devotion (The Seductor Series #3) by B.L. Wilde -Review and Release Day Blitz

Devotion

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble /

About the Book: Release Date September 12,2014

Falling in love is never easy, but when you’re a Seductor who has fallen for your target, it’s impossible.

Now that Jade has learned the whereabouts of the powercore made by Oliver’s company, her mission is almost over. The chances of being able to stay with him at the end of her contract are slim and she knows that. Would her organization really keep their word? When has a Seductor ever been able to stay with their mark?

When disaster strikes near the end of her assignment, Jade is faced with the biggest decision of her life—she must choose between her heart’s desire and doing the right thing for the sake of the world. Her choice may just be the catalyst that sets her free.

What happens when the truth comes out? Will Oliver be able to let her go this time? Or will their love for each other be enough to finally bring The Seductors down?
One thing is for certain—devotion will seal their fate.

REVIEW

5 out of 5 for this reader folks!

Damn! B.L. Wilde did it again! Another smokin’ hot, page flipping addition to her Seductors Series. Devotion by B.L. Wilde is the third book in her Seductors series and you absolutely must read the first two books before this one. Picking up right where we left off in book 2, it didn’t take long to be pulled into the problematic world that is Oliver and Jade.

Jade is the Seductors top agent. She always gets the job done .. until she broke the number one rule. She fell in love with her target. Now she is in a sticky situation as she must once again face the dilemma of completing her assignment/contract and keeping her man safe. Oliver has developed a nuclear powercore that if landed in the wrong hands can destroy the world as they know it. The Seductors have agreed to release Jade of her contract once she finishes this assignment .. as long as she never tells Oliver the truth. Fearing another split, Oliver adamantly tells Jade he will never stop looking for her if she disappears again. Oliver is not only a man of his word, but a smart, sexy, science geek in that “OMG can you get any hotter” kind of way. Thank goodness he doesn’t give up on his reason to live!

I feel like I am not giving you any meat of this story, but the synopsis covers pretty much all that can be covered without spoiling it. There is SO MUCH MORE to this amazing story and I would rather have the reader experience it for themselves. I once again am going to gush at B.L. Wilde’s creative and unique approach to the erotica genre. The heat is HOT but the story itself is engaging and I eagerly page flipped throughout. I read this book in one sitting and by the end, I still wanted more. Oliver and Jade are so well matched and the title “Devotion” is so appropriate, because to go through what they had to go through calls for nothing short of devotion.

Full of heat and action, mystery, real bitchy characters, mean spirited intent and love so strong it can conquer all, this book truely has it all. Can’t wait for more!

HAPPY READING! 🙂

Copy supplied by the author

Reviewed by Rachel T

excerpt

 

I loved spending time in Macon with Oliver and his family, but I was glad once we got back to New York. I had him all to myself, and as selfish as it sounded, I loved it when we were alone. New York held the most memories for me with him.
“I think your uncle is warming to me,” I mused as we sat eating the dinner that Mrs. Davis had prepared for us. “He actually wished me a safe trip when we left this morning.”
“It’s definitely progress,” Oliver chuckled.
“Now that we’re back in New York, you need to tell me what you want to do for your birthday. It’s only a few weeks away.”
“Well, we are fucking on my desk at work for sure. You promised me,” he winked, licking his lips. Damn him! He was too sexy for words.
“You’re sex crazed,” I giggled, shaking my head. “What about going out to dinner somewhere? We could go away for a weekend, too.”
“A dirty weekend away?” I threw my napkin at him. “What?”
“Stop thinking about sex!”
“That’s difficult. I happen to have an incredibly sexy girlfriend that I want to fuck all the time.”
“Oliver!”
“If you think about it, you’re the reason I’m sex crazed. This is your entire fault, Jade.”
“Oh, that’s right—blame it all on me,” I laughed, taking a sip of wine.
“Do you have any idea how happy you make me?”
“No, but I know how happy you make me.”
“I’m not hungry anymore.” Oliver suddenly had that look in his eyes again. The ‘I’m going to rip the clothes from your body and fuck you’ look. Instantly, I had to hold my legs together. It looked like he was going to try a prove a point.
“You’ve hardly eaten. I hope you’re not coming down with anything,” I replied, innocently.
“I’m not coming down with anything, but I certainly will be going down on something tonight.”
“Oh, God,” I whimpered, choking on my sip of wine.
“All this sex talk is making me horny. I’m going to give you a thirty second head start, then I’m planning on making you cum as many times as I can on my staircase. There are thirty four steps total. I’m thinking that’s at least ten orgasms I’ll be able to give you, maybe more, until I throw you on my bed and slide my cock inside you.” I couldn’t move. I sat there gawking at him. Ten orgasms. I couldn’t handle that! “Run Jade, I mean it. I’ll start on this table if I have to.” I stood up and ran. My heart was pounding hard in my chest. Why was I running anyway? I wanted Oliver to catch me.
I managed five steps on the staircase before he caught me from behind. “That was a feeble attempt to try and get away. Anyone would think you wanted me to catch you,” he whispered into my ear, sucking on my earlobe as his hands moved to undo the buttons on my jeans. “I’m going to drive you crazy, Beautiful. I hope you’re ready.” I couldn’t answer; his hands had already slipped inside my jeans and I was lost. Oliver began to put pressure on my sex through my panties. Why didn’t he just push my panties to the side? It was so frustrating. “Do you like that, Beautiful? I can feel your panties getting damper. How many pairs have I ruined now?”
“Too many to count,” I panted, gripping the banister for support as he sped up the movement of his hand. “W…What about Mrs. Davis?”
“She’s staying with a friend tonight. We’re all alone.” I could hear his smirk as he planted kisses down my neck. Starting to climb already, I knew my first orgasm was quickly approaching. “That’s it, Jade, give it up. I want to hear you let it all out.” I came, groaning out a string of nonsensical words, trying to hold myself up as I came undone. “I’ll give you a minute this time to compose yourself and run.”
“Are you being serious?” I gasped, still clutching the stairs. “I can hardly stand!”
“A minute and a half then,” he smirked, tilting his head. “You can manage a few more steps, Jade.” I wasn’t sure I could. “Just put one foot in front of the other.”
“Alright, Mr. Cocky.”
“Interesting choice of words.” I rolled my eyes and began to take a few unsteady steps, but it was difficult when I was still in a state of bliss. “You’re making this too easy,” he chuckled, pulling me so I was facing him. He backed me against the railing, gazing down at my chest. With one swift tug, he pulled my top over my head. “I’ll never get enough of undressing you,” he mused, running his fingertips across the top of my breasts and then into my bra, stroking my aching nipples. While his one hand continued to tease my sensitive skin, his other went south and slid right inside my panties. “Fuck, I got you well and truly worked up, didn’t I?” He ran his fingers through my slick folds, and I had to bite my lip to fight the pleasure. I had no control over myself when it came this man. “Shit, I can’t wait to fuck you. I can feel my cock already leaking at the thought.”
“Ugh, Oliver, you can’t say stuff like that to me!”
“Is gets you excited. I know you love it when I talk dirty.” He slid his fingers inside me and began another excruciating pace. “Do you know what I’m going to do after this?” he whispered, biting down on my left nipple through my bra. I couldn’t help but cry out—it felt amazing. “I’m going to strip you naked and taste you. You know I love eating you out.” I wasn’t going to survive the night, but if this was how it ended, death by an Oliver orgasm was the way to go.

 

Series Spotlight Black and White

Desire
The Seductors #1
by B.L.Wilde

ebook only .99cents at Amazon.com and Amazon.ca:

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO /

DesireAbout the Book: Release Date December 2013

Click HERE for our review of DESIRE (Book 1)

Jade has worked as a Seductor in a secret organization for five years now. Her main job? To earn the trust of her targets and secure the object or information her company was hired to steal—by any means necessary. She’s damn good at it, too.

With five years left on her contract, she is handed an assignment that turns her world upside down.

Oliver Kirkham is the attractive, young CEO of Kirkham Industries, a weapons manufacturing company, and is currently in possession of some very important blueprints—blueprints that could change the way war, as we know it, works. He’s extremely focused and doesn’t have time to date, at least until he comes to the rescue of a shy but very alluring Jade Gibbs.

What happens when one night of passion turns into more? Will Jade allow her feelings for Oliver to get in the way of her mission? Or will she do what she was hired to do and secure the steal?

_____________________________

Hunger
The Seductors #2
by B.L Wilde
Cover Design: Jo Matthews
Genre: Romance/Erotica/Suspense
Expected Release Date: June 6, 2014

Click HERE for our review of Hunger

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble /

HungerAbout the Book: Release Date June 6, 2014

When Jade walked out on Oliver six months ago, she left her heart behind. Little did she know her mission was far from over. Given a new mission—to secure a secret nuclear power core—she’s thrown back into his world and has to earn his trust once more. The only problem is that she’s competing directly with another Seductor that she despises, who has already been on the mission for two months.

Oliver was devastated when he discovered Jade had left him, so he closed himself off to the world, focusing solely on his job. Everything is thrown into chaos when she resurfaces, working for an old friend of his.

Will Jade be able to win Oliver back while fighting her jealously that another Seductor might steal the mission from her? Consumed with love, controlled by a hunger she has never known, can she protect her heart a second time around if Oliver takes her back?

About The Author Black and White

B.L. Wilde is a British author obsessed with many things, including heated love stories. Supported fully by her husband, she can often be found at her desk working on her next project.

Her journey into the world of erotica began when she started writing online stories over three years ago, and she hasn’t looked back since.

Facebook     |     Goodreads     |     Twitter     |     Blog     |     Website

Rafflecopter Giveaway Black and White

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

Prizes to be won:

The Seductor Series ebook set (Desire, Hunger, Devotion)
3 x ebooks of Desire
$10 Amazon Gift Card

Click HERE for the rafflecopter giveaway

Share

Legally Tied by Chelsea Dorsette-a review

Posted on by
11

Legally Tied by Chelsea Dorsette-a reviewLegallty Tied

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO /

*Mature Content Warning** Recommended for ages 17+ due to language and sexual content.

When prosecuting attorney Nick Olson meets interior designer Lyndsay Welch, both of their lives are turned upside down in ways they would never have imagined.

Not long after Lyndsay is introduced to sex parties and erotic lingerie shops by her best friend, she finally submits to her sexual desires for Nick which she had been vehemently trying to deny since they met.

While being breathlessly swept away by this handsome and powerful attorney, little did Lyndsay know, her life would soon be turned upside down by a senseless murder, a violent kidnapping, a tragic death, and a devastating break up.

Unable to face any more grief, Lyndsay moves to the quiet little seaside town of Bristol, Rhode Island to get a fresh start.

Just as things are starting to finally quiet down, an unexpected visit from someone in her past comes knocking at her door, changing the course of her life…forever.

REVIEW

3.5 out of 5 for this reader folks!

Legally Tied by Chelsea Dorsette = Fun, Sweet, Light but Deep, Naughty but Nice and Lovable Characters! 🙂

I have been lucky enough to review a few of Chelsea Dorsette’s short books and I love the growth she is going through as an author .. it was really evident in this story. This was my fave of all her books and I think it is likely to some exceptional characters. I really fell in love with Nick and Lyndsay and while their most certainly was a dash of angst, her book wasn’t soaking in it. I smiled often, laughed a couple of times, and just maybe blushed a time or two. WINK!

Lyndsay Welch is an interior designer about to land the account of her life. Nick Olsen is an up and coming powerful prosecuting attorney that has purchased a home and in dire need of Lyndsay’s expertise. When these two meet there are instant fireworks, and with the help of a well meaning friend, they eventually give in to the other and extreme romance is in bloom. There is danger and grief on the horizon though, and these two face some serious dilemmas, together and apart, that threaten to ruin a potential HEA. Nick and Lyndsay both need to face what it truely is that they want in their own lives before they can agree to live a life together … let’s just hope it’s not too late!

This is a great intro to the BDSM genre as it is approached in a fun way as opposed to intense and raw. Don’t get me wrong, things heat up and get intense between out hot couple, but you see a couple experimenting with each other as opposed to a hard core Dom/Sub relationship. Honestly, the sex was a bonus to this book (a great bonus ..lol) but it was the love story that really captivated me. I just adored this couple. I did find that there was so much story crammed in so few pages that it left the pacing off a bit. I wanted to indulge and feel more of a build up. I guess I am saying I wanted MORE! 🙂

Looking for a quick read that gives you, love, great naughty sex, action, angst, one awesome best friend and a whole lot more? Look no further and check this short book out!

HAPPY READING! 🙂

Copy supplied by the author

Reviewed by Rachel T.

Share

The Arrow (Highland Guard #9) by Monica McCarty-a review

Posted on by
15

The Arrow (Highland Guard #9) by Monica McCarty-a review

The Arrow

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

Release Date: August 26, 2014

As King Robert the Bruce of Scotland plots to retake his English occupied castles, he needs the stealth and skill of his elite soldiers, the Highland Guard. Fearless and indomitable, no men are more loyal to their king, or cherished by the women they love.

The talents of legendary marksman Gregor “Arrow” MacGregor are crucial now, as Bruce moves to reclaim his Scottish holdings. Gregor is considered the most handsome man in Scotland, and his fame as an archer is rivaled only by his reputation with the lasses as a heartbreaker. But when his infamous face is exposed during a covert mission, Gregor is forced to lay low. He returns home only to find a new battle waiting: a daring game of seduction involving his now very grown up and very desirable ward, Cate of Lochmaben.

A born fighter, Cate was clinging to life when Gregor rescued her after a vicious English raid on her village left her mother dead. But five years later, the once scrappy orphan Gregor took under his protection has become a woman. Brave, strong, and skilled in warfare, Cate is determined to lay claim to the warrior who refuses to be trapped. The heat in his eyes tells her she has his attention . . . and his desire. But will Gregor allow his heart to surrender before danger finds them, and the truth of Cate’s identity is revealed?

REVIEW

5 out of 5 for this reader folks!

Well … she did it again. Another fabo book in Monica McCarty’s Highland Guard series. If you are a highlander historical romance fan this series a MUST READ. Monica weaves in real historical facts and characters into her stories and if you are a history lover like I am, you will appreciate how that can make a book really come to life in your mind. She is a very descriptive writer as well, never leaving you to question what you are seeing in your mind while reading. Many authors at this point in a series (this is the 9th book) tend to go off track, or take a series in weird places hoping to keep their reader captivated .. well there is no need to try anything like that with this series. The backdrop for her story lines keep the momentum going and she always matches her lead characters perfectly. No gimmicks or tricks, just pure old fashion romance/wit with a side of action. PERFECT BLEND! 🙂

Gregor “Arrow” MacGregor is one of Robert the Bruce’s famed Highland Phantom Guard Warriors. Exceptionally handsome (he is always getting digs at his male beauty), trained as a brutally accurate bow and arrow marksman, strong and loyal, Gregor finds himself in a rut of sorts and is ordered back to his own personal castle after a botched mission. He is to rest, relax, indulge and push his reset button. Well little does he know that his reset button is NOT the only button that about to get pushed.

Many years ago, Gregor came upon a wee lass at the bottom of a drained well. Seeing as she is clearly traumatized, he decides to take guardianship over her and sends her to his castle. Now, the wee lass is no longer .. wee! Cate has bloomed into a beautiful young woman and is fierce despite her size. She is well trained to defend herself and has taken to mothering orphans. She is also madly in love with Gregor and is hoping he will now see her as a woman.

Gregor certainly sees the woman inside and tries all he can to fight it. Cate is a wise woman who knows what she wants, and she goes after it with no regret. Secrets are being kept on both sides however that may change the course of their relationship. Menacing and scheming parties also add turmoil to the mix setting our couple up to fail. Well brutal truth is served on a big ole platter and watching how it is dealt with is a whole lot of fun …LOL

Revenge, love, lies, lust, sweet, erotic, disgust, action, history .. these are just a handful of words that describe this book. It is in the readers best interest to read this series in order. I suppose you could read it out of order but there is so much you will miss if you did! Again, one of the BEST highlander historical series out there and another direct hit by Monica McCarty. Can’t wait for the next one!

HAPPY READING! 🙂

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Rachel T.

Read the reviews for:

The Saint
The Recruit
The Hunter
The Raider

Highland guard

Share

Love and Let Spy by Shana Galen-Review, Interview and Giveaway

Posted on by
73

Love and Let Spy by Shana Galen-Review, Interview and Giveaway

Love and Let Spy Banner

Love and Let Spy
Lord and Lady Spy #3
by Shana Galen
Release Date: August 5, 2014
Genre: adult, historical, romance, mystery

Love and Let Spy

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 5, 2014

Her name is Bonde, Jane Bonde . . .

A beautiful and eligible member of the ton, Jane has more than a few secrets: she’s one of the Crown’s most elite agents. She may be deadly, but she doesn’t know a thing about fashion, flirtation, or love . . . until Dominic Griffyn shakes up her carefully stirred world and asks her to be his bride. He’s exactly the kind of man she’s not looking for. And he’s dangerous, because falling into his arms is so much more satisfying than saving England from her enemies.

He’s an improper gentleman who needs a wife. . .

Tall, dark, and tortured, Dominic Griffyn is haunted by demons from his past. When his stepfather insists that he marry, Dominic allows himself to hope that the beautiful but mysterious Miss Bonde might help him forget his troubles. As they grow closer, it’s clear that there’s more to Jane than danger. She might be just what his neglected heart needs.

•••••••••••••••••••••

5 out of 5 for this reader folks!

BONDE … Jane Bonde .. shaken not stirred!

Man this was one FANTASTIC book. The third book in Shana Galen’s Lord and Lady Spy series, Love and Let Spy was by far my fave (and I adored the previous books too). If you are a James Bond fan you will appreciate the parallels you will find in this book and likely chuckle at the backassward ways Shana portrays them. I am a huge Bond fan and was already a fan of this series, so this was a super fun book, full of action, loving/hot moments and a mystery left to be solved.

Jane Bonde is spy lady extraordinaire. Beyond dedicated to her job, she is completely shocked when her aunt and uncle (also the head of this spy organization) tell her she MUST marry. Frustrated already after an elusive enemy once again escapes her clutches, she is ready to refuse her uncle’s decision and dig her heels in … then she meets her betrothed.

Dominic Griffyn is one hot mess. As the step-son to a Marquess (his mother was an actress who married well when he was younger) he has been told that he must marry or be disowned. Seeing as he loves being the family horse breeder he is resentful when he is ordered to change his lifestyle. Dominic comes with a horrific past that haunts him and refuses to allow him to have a proper “society” marriage, so the prospect of marriage is a NO GO … until he meets his betrothed.

These two are so much similar in ways they can never know. Dominic knows there is something different about Jane (I mean how many ladies scale walls, sneak out at night and wear a daggers in their corsets) and decides to assist her ventures. Jane is quite peeved that this man seems to feel the need to protect her. HER .. an ELITE SPY! That and the stolen kisses, chemistry filled attraction .. really she has more important things to do … like save England!

We are brought on quite the adventure in this story. These two characters were incredible together and bit by bit the layers are peeled back. Jane shows Dominic just how different she truely is when he finally reveals his past, and she never treats him with a pitied word or too kind of hand. Many secrets are revealed, truths surface and dangers occur, but this all just adds to the anticipation and thrill I felt reading this story!

Looking for a great regency spy book with a touch of yummy! Check out the series by Shana Galen for sure!

HAPPY READING! 🙂

Reading Order
1. Lord and Lady Spy
1.5 The Spy Wore Blue
2 True Spies
3 Love and Let Spy

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Rachel T

 

Interview

TRC: Hi Shana and welcome to The Reading Café. Congratulations on the release of LOVE AND LET SPY.

Shana GalenShana: Thanks so much for having me.

TRC: We would like to start with some background information. Please tell us something about yourself?

Follow Shana: Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter

Shana: I’m a wife, a mom, and a former English teacher. I’ve been writing fulltime for the last 5 years, and I’ve published almost twenty books.

TRC: Who or what influenced your career in writing?

Shana: I’d have to say my grandmother was a big influence. She was always writing poetry and she self-published a devotional book back in the days when no one was self-publishing yet. She died in May of this year at age 95, and just a week or so before she passed away, she wrote a new poem. The love of words and writing is in my blood.

TRC: What was the factor on your decision to write historical romance?

Shana: I’ve also written two contemporaries, but I tend to gravitate toward historical romances because I’ve been told over and over that’s where my voice fits best. I also enjoy escaping this world into the world of the past. I do enjoy reading contemporary romances, but I don’t know that I’d like to live in one for 4 months while I wrote it. It might seem too much like my real life.

TRC: Which time period would you describe as the most ‘romantic’ as it pertains to historical romance?

Shana: This might seem strange considering I write Regency-set books, but I think the medieval period is the most romantic. I love the knights and the castles and the simplicity of that period. I mean, I know romance novels romanticize every period, and there wasn’t anything romantic about the plague, but in some ways the past seems simpler to me—no cell phones, racing to soccer practice, or trying to decide which of ten choices of apple to buy in the store.

Love and Let SpyTRC: When not writing, what do you do to relax?

Shana: I love to read. I wish I had more time to read. My daughter is getting a little older now, and I can actually read chapter books to her. When I get desperate, I pull out Pinkey Pie and the Ponypalooza Party, and at least I’m reading something.

TRC: LOVE AND LET SPY is the third instalment and August 2014 release in your Lord and Lady Spy series. Would you please tell us something about the premise?

Shana: It’s basically James Bond, except James is Jane. She’s the best spy the Crown has to offer, and she’s single-minded when it comes to completing missions. But she doesn’t count on meeting Dominic Griffyn. He’s not the typical Bond love interest. He’s dark and complex, and I think he’s as interesting a character as Jane.

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

Shana: This is the last. I won’t say I’ll never do another, but I don’t have any more planned at this moment.

Lord and Lady Spy Series

TRC: Do you believe an author should stay true to the time period when writing historical fiction?

Shana: It depends how you define “true to the time period.” If you mean that the characters should dress as the people then dressed and use the same conveyances, etc., yes. If you mean that women can’t play the part of a pirate or a spy in historical fiction, then no. It’s fiction, and while I do try to be as accurate as possible, I want to make my books accessible to the modern reader.

TRC: What challenges or difficulties (historical research, logistics, background) did you encounter writing this particular story and series?

Shana: I’d say the hero was the toughest to get right. He has a dark background, and without giving any spoilers, I wanted to treat that in a dignified way but still be true to the time period. He also has an affinity for horses, and I found myself researching a lot about horses and colic.

TRC: What is next for your JEWELS OF THE TON series?

Jewels of the Ton

Shana: I don’t have any further plans for that series either. This has been quite a year of endings for me. I wrapped up Jewels of the Ton, Lord and Lady Spy, and my Misadventures in Matrimony series.

TRC: What are your thoughts on writing a series and ending an instalment with a major cliff hanger?

Shana: I’m okay with it. I don’t do it because I always like for a new reader to pick up any of my books and be able to jump in without having read any other books in the series. But I do read books with cliffhangers, and I enjoy them. They sure make me buy the next in the series!

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

Shana: At the beginning, I tend to direct the characters, and then at some point, they usually take over and direct me. Often I look back at the beginning of the book and see that my characters are not very much like I’d envisioned them on those early pages. I have to do a lot of revision. I have written books where the characters didn’t “come to life” for me until very late in the book. Those books are always tough to write and often frustrating because by the time I finally “get” the character, the book is almost done. Then I have to go back and fix it.

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

Shana: If an author wants a reader to experience the same emotions as the character, the reader must identify with that character. She has to see something of herself in the hero or heroine. That’s why it’s so important for authors who write strong characters to make them vulnerable too. Writers fail to touch readers when the characters aren’t either sympathetic or relatable.

TRC: Writer’s Block is a very real phenomenon. How do you handle the pressures and anxiety of writer’s block?

Shana: I don’t have writer’s block so much as a lack of time to write. Lately I’ve been overwhelmed with the sheer amount of work on my plate, and I’ve actually just avoided it. This isn’t like me at all. Normally, I make a list and just go down it, methodically checking things off. But I think it’s a mark of how overwhelmed I’ve been that I just kind of gave up for a few days. Now I’m back to my trusty to-do list.

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

Shana: I like to brainstorm with other authors. I have a brainstorming group with Robyn DeHart, Margo Maguire, Anne Mallory, and Emily McKay. I also brainstorm with my friends Sophie Jordan and Tera Lynn Childs.

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

Shana: I’d love to make the USA Today or NYT list. I’ve been published almost a decade, and that’s always been a goal of mine. I’d also like to go to Hawaii. I’ve never been. Finally, I’d love to spend about a month in the UK with my husband and daughter in about 10 years, so I want to start saving for that so it can become a reality.

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

Shana: I’ve been a vegetarian for 28 years.

TRC: On what are you currently working?

Shana: I’m working on a new series, The Covent Garden Cubs. It’s about a gang of thieves and how their lives intersect with a noble family, the Derrings. The first book is Earls Just Want to Have Fun, and it’s about the Earl of Dane and a female thief, Marlowe, who disrupts his life and all his preconceived notions.

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Shana: I’m also working on an anthology that will be out in October with Miranda Neville, Carolyn Jewel, and Grace Burrowes. It’s titled Christmas in The Duke’s Arms and my novella features characters from Love and Let Spy.

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food chocolate chip cookies

Favorite Dessert milkduds

Favorite TV Show Downton Abbey

Last Movie You Saw thinking…Rio 2 maybe?

Favorite Musical Group the Newsboys

Dark or Milk Chocolate milk

Secret Celebrity Crush Flynn Ryder

Last Vacation Destination Disneyworld

Pet Peeve interruptions

TRC: Thank you Shana for taking the time to answer our questions. Congratulations on all of your success.

Shana: Thanks again for hosting me!

giveaway

Shana and her publicist are offering a paper copy of LOVE AND LET SPY 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.

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

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

4. LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry.

5. Like Shana Galen on Facebook

6. Giveaway is open to USA/Canada only.

7. Giveaway runs from August 11 to August 15, 2014

Share

Tiger Lily (Gilded Flower #3) by Vivian Winslow-a review

Posted on by
11

Tiger Lily (Gilded Flower #3) by Vivian Winslow-a review

Tiger Lily

ebook .99¢ -> Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO / The Book Depository

About the book: Release Date July 20,2014

Weary from battling a hostile takeover attempt of her family’s company, Lily seeks a distraction in Todd, an erstwhile bartender with a large trust fund and magical tongue. Meanwhile, a connection seems to be developing between Lily and Alejandro, a wealthy and gorgeous Cuban-American, whose brother, Rodrigo, is dating Lily’s twin sister, Dahlia. When Alejandro unexpectedly rebuffs Lily one night, she is deeply dismayed. But, after seeing Alejandro’s picture with a gorgeous Latina model in the gossip pages, Lily thinks it wasn’t just a misunderstanding. When the sisters and brothers reunite in Aspen for a ski weekend, will Lily’s heart remain frozen or will the fire between her and Alejandro rekindle and melt away the ice?

••••••••••••••••••

3.5 out of 5 for this reader folks!

Tiger Lily by Vivian Winslow is the last book of her trilogy that follows Lily Baron’s road to self discovery. I tell you, Lily really bloomed with strength and purpose in this final short story. Starting out as a socialite and having her every move dictated by her status in society, it was really great to experience her full circle to maturity and self worth.

We were left with a big revelation in the last book, and Lily has to address which path she is going to take despite this revelation. Her family’s company is draining her while she assumes the acting CEO position, and selling this company has become a real option. Gustavo (her older lover that she feels betrayed her) is still pursuing her and will not take no for an answer so it is up to Lily to make her position clear regardless of the strong attraction and magnetic pull she feels towards him. Todd, her ever reliable bed buddy is always on call for those extra stressful days (man can those two fire up the sheets .. or should I say cool them off .. pass the mint ice cream please … LOL). It is however, her sisters boyfriend brother who is calling to her heart. Alejandro rouses something in Lily that isn’t based on lies, or one night stands and I tell you this man is the real deal. He is sweet and sensitive and a total keeper and Lily is quite hurt when her advances are first rejected. It is however, all laid out when a ski trip reunites our couple and the magic is flowing.

This is another quick read and a tidy ending for Lily Baron. I love that Vivian Winslow leaves us with anticipation for other characters in this story .. namely Lily’s sister Dahlia. I did find this story rushed and a little abrupt chapter to chapter. I prefer a more natural flow, but in saying that it was very easy to follow the story and fall in love with some of the characters. Vivian is quite talented at writing some steamy scenes as well .. my toes may have curled a time or two!

HAPPY READING!

Reading Order
Gilded Lily
Calla Lily
Tiger Lily

Reviewed by Rachel T

Copy supplied by the author

about the author

vivian winslowFollow: Goodreads / Facebook

Having spent most of the last two decades abroad, Vivian Winslow currently resides in New York City with her husband and two grade school-aged children. Her stories are heavily influenced by her ex-pat experiences. The Gilded Flower Series is her first foray into erotic romance.

Share

Trenton/Worth/Hadrian-The Lonely Lords by Grace Burrowes-a review

Posted on by
11

Trenton/Worth/Hadrian-The Lonely Lords 10, 11, 12 by Grace Burrowes-a review

 

5 out of 5 for this reader folks!

I know what a shocker right?? I love another set of Grace Burrowes books. LOL I enjoy this series so much that when I write a review for them I feel like I am on gush repeat … She writes my kind of happy, what can I say! WINK!

So this combined review consists of Grace Burrowes Lonely Lords books 10, 11 and 12 (Trenton, Worth and Hadrian). Once again I am drawn to the familiar and much admired formula that Grace creates in her historical romance novels. There is always a sense of maturity with regards to her characters. There are no TeeHee, game playing young ladies, flirting and carrying on in the pursuit of husband finding and scheme plotting and while there is a place for that kind of character, I love that I will not find them here. Her characters have “lived” quite a bit (be it heartache, loss, trauma etc.) and when they meet their soon to be significant other, you really admire the friendship that blooms in the midst of the romance. There is genuine love, kindness, and more importantly TRUTH. It’s truely heart warming and pleasurable to experience our main couple find their way not to just each other, but through their own personal despair.

________________________

BOOK 10 – Trenton
Lord of Loss
Release Date: April 2014

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO /

DESCRIPTION

After a short, troubled marriage, Trenton Lindsey, heir to the Wilton earldom, finds himself a widower with three small children. His year of mourning leaves him adrift, until his brother, Darius, forces him to take a repairing lease in Surrey. Social conventions require Trent to call on his recently widowed neighbour, Elegy Hampton, Lady Rammel, and as friendship develops, consolation of an intimate sort tempts them both. Just as Trent acknowledges the joy and pleasure to be shared with Ellie, an unseen enemy threatens him and Ellie, too. Can he reach for the love Ellie offers, when some one else is trying to take his life.

REVIEW

Trenton Lindsey is the brother of Darius (the first Lonely Lord of this series and one of my faves) and is taking over the much neglected estate of Surrey. After losing his wife and being left with 3 children, he hits the bottle hard to numb his troubled soul. While his marriage wasn’t necessarily a happy marriage, he did take his responsibilities seriously. When he returns to Surrey he comes across Lady Elegy who has recently been widowed herself. Elegy is carrying the child of her deceased husband and awaiting to find out if she is carrying an heir to her estate. Quickly Tenton and Elegy strike up a friendship soon turned to romance, helping the other heal in companionship. Elegy assists Trenton in fixing up his estate, and Trenton takes on the position of a doting, caring “husband”. This soon leads to deeper feelings and when Trenton bastard of a father makes another appearance, these two have to much to suffer before finding their way to forever.

••••••••••••••••••••••

BOOK 11 – WORTH
Lord of Reckoning
Release Date: May 2014

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO /

DESCRIPTION

Consummate man of business and rake at large, Worth Kettering, repairs to his country estate to sort out his familial situation, trusting the ever efficient (though as yet unmet) housekeeper, Jacaranda Wyeth, will provide his family a pleasant summer retreat. To his surprise, his household is manage by a quick-witted, violet-eyed beauty who’s his match in many regards.

As Jacaranda and Worth become enamored, the family she’s kept hidden from him, the financial clients Worth feels singularly protective of, and the ragged state of affairs between Worth and his estranged older brother Hessian all conspire to keep Worth and Jacaranda apart. Worth must choose between love and profit, and Jacaranda must decide between loyalty to her family, and the love of a man who values her above all others.

REVIEW

Ah Worth .. the rake. He is a natural flirt that is easy to fall in love with. He has a somewhat bad boy reputation, but meets his match when he comes across Jacaranda a housekeeper on his estate. Jacaranda is bold and does not hesitate to put Worth in his place and call things like she sees it. Due to her spirited ways, Worth sees her a breath of welcomed fresh air. He also insists that she stays by his side to accompany him on his neglected duties as she is the “all knowing force” that makes his estate run smoothly. Little does Worth know that Jacaranda is hiding secrets about where she comes from and who her family really is. As their romance blooms, these truths come to light leaving Worth and Jacaranda to decide if love is stronger than duty. The banter these two share had me chuckling at times and there is nothing more satisfying that reading about a rake falling to his knees for a strong headed woman. Absolutely brilliantly matched! LOL

••••••••••••••••••••••••

BOOK 12 – Hadrian
Lord of Hope
Release Date: June 2014

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk/ Barnes and Noble / KOBO /

DESCRIPTION

Hadrian Bothwell was never an excellent fit with a religious calling, so when his brother asks to manage the family estate, Hadrian gives up vicaring and returns to his boyhood home.

He’s spent years thinking of Lady Avis Portmaine as the woman he should have fought for, but he finds Avis has become a recluse on the neighboring estate, socially shunned, and more unavailable than ever. If Hadrian wants to win the lady’s heart, he must first win her freedom from a past that will not leave her in peace.

REVIEW

With so many characters in Grace Burrowes Lonely Lords series it isn’t hard to have a fave. This has happened to me a few times. Well for some reason, Hadrian has really stuck out to me and I felt an instant connect with him. Compared to her others, he doesn’t stand out strongly, but I have to admit that after the first chapter, I knew he was special. Hadrian has been recalled to his family estate by his older brother to assume the responsibilities as the heir. Hadrian had lost his spouse years ago and decided to become a vicar (although he really wasn’t molded or any good as a religious man) and live his life in god’s words. When he returns to his estate he comes across a childhood friend who has suffered a terrible trauma in her younger years. Lady Avis is living behind walls, still suffering long terms effects from her past. When she comes across Hadrian, she is absolutely pleased. Quickly these two offer the other companionship that blooms into a romance that should of been years ago. In order for them to achieve their HEA however, they must face the past together and acknowledge truths that are painful to endure. One of my fave couples in this Lonely series for sure!

Again, a predicatable formula that really warms my heart when I pick up a Lonely Lord book. I know I am going to encounter complicated characters that have a past, form a friendship, become lovers and face tragedy to be each other’s forever. When I finish a Grace Burrowes novel I am always left utterly satisfied!

Reading Order-Click on highlighted title to read our review
Darius
Nicholas
Ethan
Beckman
Gabriel
Gareth
Andrew
Douglas
David
Trenton
Worth
Hadrian

HAPPY READING!

Reviewed by Rachel T

Share