Viking’s Claim By Madison Faye; Release Blitz w/ Synopsis, Teasers, Review, and, Purchase Links!

Posted on May 2, 2019 by LauraAdmin

 

 

Title: Viking’s Claim
Series: Kilts & Kisses #4
Author: Madison Faye
Genre: Wildly historically inaccurate 
Highlander
historical romance
Release Date: April 29, 2019

 

Blurb
Never kiss the devil. Not even if he’s sinfully gorgeous. Or impossible to resist.
And certainly not when he’s got you tied and bound, and completely at his mercy.
…Uh oh.
I thought I had it bad when I was on my way to be married off to some weasley little lord to appease my family. But that’s before I’m taken by the most
fearsome, vicious, alpha Viking to sail the seas.
Tor Odinson is a beast of a man. A savage. A bloodthirsty warrior and
ravager. Huge, growly, dominant…and completely and utterly beautiful.
I’m supposed to fear him, not want him. I’m supposed to resist him, not crave him.
…Yeah, whoops.
Because once he throws me over his shoulder, and lays his hands on me, and ties me to bed, and makes me feel things I’ve never even dreamed of, I know “what I’m supposed to do” is the last thing I’ll be doing when it
comes to Tor.
I know it’s wrong to desire a man like him. But if this is a sin, I’m already damned.
I fell for the devil, and now I want it all.
Completely over the top, growly af, tropes for DAYS, and wildly historically inaccurate. As in, if you’re a history major, I’m so, so sorry. Warning: not responsible for lost or ripped bodices. Reader beware.
As with all my books, this one is safe, with no cheating, and a HEA guaranteed.
Review:

                                                      Viking’s Claim by Madison Faye

Viking’s Claim (ARC) was graciously provided to me by Give Me Books PR for an honest review. I have voluntarily read this book and have provided my honest opinion.

                                                 A Viking Warrior’s Love Story..   

WOOOOAH..I think it’s safe to say that Khal Drogo and Dax Lahn will have to share the spotlight of Mighty Warriors with another Alpha Warrior.  Viking Tor Odinson, an inherently good and beautiful man with a tender loving heart, surely fits the bill as such a mighty warrior..

YESSS!! I loved my most recent read of an upcoming release that I will proudly admit that I may have squealed just a wee bit, at first glance, at a predictably great read.  With it’s gorgeous and breath-taking cover, visions of George C. Martin and Kristie Ashley quickly came to mind as their massive alpha characters are always stellar and have many readers waiting with abated breath in hopes of more from these types of characters..  Enter Viking Tor Odinson..

Viking’s Claim, by Madison Faye, is an incredibly sexy, exciting, humorous, intense, and, heart-warming read.  This addicting story over-flows with larger-than-life Vikings and Highlanders of the gorgeously described scenic beauty of Scotland.  A story equally brimming with heart-felt decisions from warriors that had this reader frequently swooning as these actions are certainly not the norm of someone seemingly so brutal.

GAH!  It is beyond clear that this new book has so much to it that it is a recommended read from this reader.  From its steamy and gripping storyline, to its brave and dedicated characters; many of whom make cameos from within the series, to its alluring setting, this welcomed take on a historical romance is one that I really enjoyed.

That being said, however, while I could-not-stop-reading, I thought further development to the plot, character background, as well as further editing, would have been icing on the cake.

On the other hand, Viking’s Claim, by Madison Faye, as a whole, is an exciting, sizzling, and, heart-warming read that I really recommend, and, reading additional books by this author is definitely in the horizon, as I really had liked it..:)

*star rating: 4.15 ‘I really liked this story’ stars*

Purchase Links
99c for a limited time!!
AMAZON US / UK / CA / AU
Free in Kindle Unlimited
Also Available
99c for a limited time!!
AMAZON US / UK / CA / AU
Free in Kindle Unlimited
99c for a limited time!!
AMAZON US / UK / CA / AU
Free in Kindle Unlimited
99c for a limited time!!
AMAZON US / UK / CA / AU
Free in Kindle Unlimited
Author Bio
USA Today and #1 bestselling contemporary romance author Madison Faye is the dirty alter ego of the very wholesome, very normal suburban housewife behind the stories. While she might be a wife, mom, and PTA organizer on the outside, there’s nothing but hot, steamy, and raunchy fantasies brewing right beneath the surface!Tired of keeping them hidden inside or only having them come out in the bedroom, they’re all here in the form of some wickedly hot stories.
Single-minded alpha hero, sinfully taboo relationships, and wildly over-the-top scenarios. If you love it extra dirty, extra hot, and extra naughty, this is the place for you! (Just don’t tell the other PTA members you saw her here…)Join the newsletter reader group for author updates, special prices, and two
FREE books!
http://www.madisonfayeromance.com/newsletter
Author Links
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More Than Tempt You by Shayla Black; Blog Tour w/ Synopsis, Excerpt, and, Purchase Links!

Posted on May 1, 2019 by LauraAdmin

MORE THAN TEMPT YOU BANNER.jpg

More Than Tempt You, an all-new, sexy standalone from New York Times bestselling author Shayla Black is available now!

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I romanced her for revenge…but what if she’s not the enemy after all?

I’m Clint Holmes. I was an ambitious guy with a busy life and a growing business. Sure North Dakota wasn’t a tropical paradise, but I was happy enough—until tragedy struck. Now the only thing that matters is finding the person responsible and making her pay. But Bethany Banks is a Harvard-educated shark used to swallowing her enemies whole while playing dangerous corporate games. How can a blue-collar oil man like me possibly beat her?

The moment I lay eyes on my beautiful nemesis, the answer is obvious. I seduce her.

On Maui, where she’s fled, I get to know the man-eater who caused my family so much pain…only to find she’s not the brazen ballbuster I assumed. She’s skittish, secretive, vulnerable. For some reason, my instinct is to protect her. I can’t abandon my plan…but I can’t stop wanting her. Night after night, I pry her open with my touch until I’m drowning in our passion. Soon, I’m questioning everything, especially the fine line between love and hate. But when the past comes back to wreak vengeance and the truth explodes, can I prove that I’m more than tempted to love her forever?

MORE THAN TEMPT YOU-NA.jpg

Download your copy today!

Amazon: https://amzn.to/2Tnh9UN
Apple Books: https://apple.co/2sZvBGQ
Amazon Worldwide: http://mybook.to/MTTY
Nook: http://bit.ly/2CUeBXb
Kobo: http://bit.ly/2TlSsbp
Amazon Paperback: https://amzn.to/2GcfsFV
Audio: https://amzn.to/2Xgfxhd

Add to GoodReads: http://bit.ly/2sUZoAu

Excerpt:

“Can one of you keep an eye on Beth? She’s getting hit on a lot, which I told her to expect. But one creepy guy who was here last night is here again today. He seems awfully determined.”

“The one in the loud Hawaiian shirt with the matching personality?” my buddy asks.

“That one. He parked his ass in her station as soon as we opened. He’s been messing with her ever since.”

“I’ll take care of it,” I chime in.

First, when I bartended on the side in the past, I saw a lot of the girls struggle with dirtbags who refused to understand that no means no. Second, coming to her rescue will be a great way to meet Bethany and start gaining her trust. I refuse to think about how excited my libido is to spend time with her.

“Thanks, Clint.”

With that, Andy dismisses us. Ash and I file down the hall.

My buddy laughs. “You in the role of Bethany’s protector. Oh, the irony…”

“Hey, I’m not out to hurt her. I just want justice. I have no doubt she helped to swindle those people, so she deserves to pay as the law provides.”

“Fair enough. But, um…she clearly flips your switch. How are you going to keep your paws off her?”

Bethany Banks turning me on visually is fucking inconvenient. I’m sure that once I start talking to the woman, her personality will quickly turn me off. “I’ll work it out.”

“Ready for the madhouse?”

I follow Ash behind the bar. “Let’s do it.”

It takes me less than ten minutes to learn the ropes. Then Ash introduces me to the other waitress on duty, Montana. She’s a sultry brunette with dark eyes, golden skin, and big tits. Honestly, she’s usually my speed in women.

And yet as we’re chatting and she’s flirting, my gaze keeps straying to Bethany. What is it about her? She’s beautiful, but what else? Is it her aloofness? Maybe. I want to figure her out so I can understand why a brilliant woman, surely capable of making her own fortune, would help her father fleece people. The angry part of me wants to grasp how she managed not to get caught. Mostly, I fear the attraction is chemical and, regardless of what logic tells me, I want to nail her.

When Montana jaunts off with a wink. Ash pulls me aside. “Are you that rusty? Montana would totally do you, and you blew her off.”

I know, and the fact I’m not interested annoys me. “I’m not here for sex. Introduce me to ‘Beth’ and let’s get this farce going.”

As we approach, she sets a beer down in front of a guy who’s fortyish in a Hawaiian shirt—like a lot of the tourists here. He eyes her with excruciating intensity. She meets his gaze with an arched brow raised.

My gut tells me she’s not only not interested, but she’s silently rebuffing him.

Mug delivered, Bethany turns to leave. The man grips her wrist hard, his muscles flexing, veins popping, knuckles white. When she winces and tries to wriggle free, he clamps tighter and stands, jerking her toward him.

Fuck that. Even if Bethany Banks is guilty of a multitude of sins, she doesn’t deserve to be manhandled by this jerk against her will.

I barge my way between them, shoving her behind me. “Do we have a problem here, sir?”

Fury pinches his mouth. He narrows his eyes. “This has nothing to do with you. Butt out.”

“You don’t have permission to maul the staff. I’m going to have to ask you to keep your hands to yourself or leave.”

“Do you have your head so far up her twat that you don’t see she’s a fucking bitch?” The guy scoffs and rolls his eyes. “Yeah, and you deserve everything you get when she chews you up and spits you out.”

With that, the asshole tosses down some money and starts to walk away.

I’m furious. In part because he accused me of wanting her when I do. But mostly I’m pissed on Bethany’s behalf. “That was uncalled for. You’re not welcome back here unless you apologize to her.”

He grits his teeth, upper lip curling up with contempt as he turns to Bethany. “Fine. A thousand apologies.”

The douche doesn’t mean a word of that, and I want to pound his face. No, I’m not looking to become Bethany’s knight in shining armor. But this kind of guy always grates on my nerves because he thinks he can treat all women like trash, and the only thing that matters less than them are their feelings. I hate pricks like him.

Unfortunately, I can’t do anything else right now without ramping up the incident, instigating a fight…and probably getting fired. Instead, once he leaves, I turn to Bethany. I’m pissed all over again when I see she’s gone tense, as if she’s trying to hold herself together, and sporting a big red handprint around her small wrist.

“You okay?”

She nods. It’s shaky at first, then she drags in a steadying breath. “Yeah. He might be the first to think he can demand something more than a drink. But like Andy said, he won’t be the last. I’ll get used to it. Thanks for stepping in. I’m Beth.”

When she holds out her hand, I have to admit I’m impressed by her backbone. I’ve seen new waitresses shrink, cry, and ultimately quit when confronted with a customer that vile. Bethany simply picked herself up and now looks determined to carry on.

“You’re welcome. I’m Clint. It’s my first day.” I shake her hand.

We touch. Heat flares and rolls through me, instant and scorching. If I wanted to fuck her before, it’s nothing compared to the lust burning me now.

About Shayla:

SB-BioPage cropped v3.jpg

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

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

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

Connect with Shayla:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShaylaBlackAuthor/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ShaylaBlack/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Shayla_Black
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/shaylablacksb/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFM7RZF38CqBlr6YG3a4mRQ
Website: https://www.shaylablack.com

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Flipped by K. Sterling; Release Blitz w/ Synopsis, Excerpt, Purchase Links, and, Series Info!

Posted on April 30, 2019 by LauraAdmin
Title: Flipped
Author: K. Sterling
Genre: M/M Romance
Release Date: April 30, 2019
It’s Roan O’Shea’s world and we’re just here for the ride. And what a ride it is…
 
After a lifetime of living in fear (and by other people’s rules), Roan’s determined to use his ill-gotten talents and money to turn the quaint, quiet town of Sanctuary Mills into his own little slice of heaven. Living under the alias Flynn Gallagher, Roan is on a mission to undo the evil of his past, and win the hearts of his new neighbors, by spreading his own brand of joy and light. But, just when Roan thinks he’s pulled off the ultimate con, an FBI agent, a murder, and a mystery threaten to expose his past and his intricate web of identities and secrets.
 
It takes a special breed of criminal, and a massive set of steel-plated testicles, to pull off a Ponzi scheme targeting organized crime’s heaviest hitters. Agent Sherman Mathis has spent months hunting for Cillian McGregor, and every lead has been a dead end. Except Flynn Gallagher. The jet-setting wine enthusiast and blogger is the only victim of McGregor’s baffling scam who isn’t dead, in jail, or slammed a door in Sherman’s face, but he’s not the perfect source our agent was hoping for, once they finally meet. Sherman’s hopes for a lead vanish immediately and he begins to suspect Flynn is hiding something deeper and bigger than McGregor.
 
A small town like Sanctuary Mills should be child’s play for a master strategist and showman like Roan, but he learns the stakes are higher when his heart starts calling the shots. This time, he’s got his sights set on the ultimate prize and Roan won’t rest until he’s won Sherman’s trust, and his heart. He’s just got to solve a murder, come clean, and flip a Federal Agent.
*Flipped is a sequel to Snatched and can be read alone but will contain many Snatched spoilers!

A battered boy named Roan, my favorite scene from The Godfather and a true BROmance.

I’m still here! I’ve been busy but I’ve missed you. I decided I’d be generous with the excerpts since it’s been a while and I’m so stoked to tell you all about Roan. He was the happiest accident and totally caught me by surprise and took my breath away when I heard his story.

 

K. Sterling is just a very tired and anxious woman with a MacBook who writes to save her sanity. Writing also allows her to stay home and care for her dogs, Milo and the awful Otis, and one very abusive cat, Luna. K. has two teenage daughters who are the most teenage daughters to ever teenage and responsible for all of K.’s premature grey hairs. She also homeschools her teenage son, Alex. Alex has severe autism and is the inspiration behind K.’s most beloved character, Dr. Aiden Sharp. Before all this magical romance nonsense happened, K. served in the U.S. Army as a counterintelligence agent then went on to teach CI Investigations before changing careers and becoming a stay-at-home mom with Alex and the gang. K. has been married for many, many years to Mr. Sterling and he is currently leaving his very long career in counterintelligence to narrate his wife’s audiobooks. And other things.

HOSTED BY:

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Ignite by Donna Grant; Release Blitz w/ Synopsis, Teasers, and, Purchase Links!

Posted on April 30, 2019 by LauraAdmin

Today we are celebrating the release of Donna Grant’s IGNITE, the 15th book in her Dark Kings series.

You can purchase your copy now.

Kindle | Nook | Apple | Kobo | GooglePlay

Print: Amazon | BAM | BN | IndieBound | Powells

About IGNITE:

 

Every inch of him was molded as if from granite…and her blood ran like fire…

For centuries, V has waited to awaken from his doomed sleep and reclaim his destiny. But this Dragon King—one among a legion of legendary warriors sworn to protect the human race from darkness—must first find a way to win back his sword. Wield its power. And try not to fall prey to his own illicit desires.

Claire may possess the beauty and soul of a goddess but V knows better than to mess with a mere mortal. Still, he instinctively knows that Claire is The One who can help him regain the use of his sword and restore his place at Dreagan. But if she learns the truth about who—and what—he really is, her memories of him would be erased forever. How can V love Claire truly, madly, deeply…and protect her from the forces of fire and darkness that could destroy them both?

Praise for the Dark Kings series:

“Provocative [and] sizzling.”
—RT Book Reviews (4 stars)

“A must-read.”
—Night Owl Reviews

Add IGNITE to your Goodreads TBR here!

Purchase your copy of IGNITE today!

Kindle | Nook | Apple | Kobo | GooglePlay

Print: Amazon | BAM | BN | IndieBound | Powells

———————

About DONNA GRANT

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Donna Grant has been praised for her “totally addictive” and “unique and sensual” stories. Her latest acclaimed series, Dark Kings, features a thrilling combination of dragons, Fae, and immortal Highlanders who are dark, dangerous, and irresistible. She lives with her two children and an assortment of animals in Texas.
Website / Facebook / Instagram / Goodreads

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Viking’s Claim by Madison Faye (Arc) Review!

Posted on April 28, 2019 by LauraAdmin

                                                        Viking’s Claim by Madison Faye

Viking’s Claim (ARC) was graciously provided to me by Give Me Books PR for an honest review. I have voluntarily read this book and have provided my honest opinion.

                                                    A Viking Warrior’s Love Story..   

WOOOOAH..I think it’s safe to say that Khal Drogo and Dax Lahn will have to share the spotlight of Mighty Warriors with another Alpha Warrior.  Viking Tor Odinson, an inherently good and beautiful man with a tender loving heart, surely fits the bill as such a mighty warrior..

YESSS!! I loved my most recent read of an upcoming release that I will proudly admit that I may have squealed just a wee bit, at first glance, at a predictably great read.  With it’s gorgeous and breath-taking cover, visions of George C. Martin and Kristie Ashley quickly came to mind as their massive alpha characters are always stellar and have many readers waiting with abated breath in hopes of more from these types of characters..  Enter Viking Tor Odinson..

Viking’s Claim, by Madison Faye, is an incredibly sexy, exciting, humorous, intense, and, heart-warming read.  This addicting story over-flows with larger-than-life Vikings and Highlanders of the gorgeously described scenic beauty of Scotland.  A story equally brimming with heart-felt decisions from warriors that had this reader frequently swooning as these actions are certainly not the norm of someone seemingly so brutal.

GAH!  It is beyond clear that this new book has so much to it that it is a recommended read from this reader.  From its steamy and gripping storyline, to its brave and dedicated characters; many of whom make cameos from within the series, to its alluring setting, this welcomed take on a historical romance is one that I really enjoyed.

That being said, however, while I could-not-stop-reading, I thought further development to the plot, character background, as well as further editing, would have been icing on the cake.

On the other hand, Viking’s Claim, by Madison Faye, as a whole, is an exciting, sizzling, and, heart-warming read that I really recommend, and, reading additional books by this author is definitely in the horizon, as I really had liked it..:)

*star rating: 4.15 ‘I really liked this story’ stars*

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Desperately Seeking Roommate by Michalea Smeltzer; Release Blitz w/ Synopsis, Excerpt, Review, and, Giveaway!

Posted on April 26, 2019 by LauraAdmin

 

Title: Desperately Seeking Roommate
Author: Micalea Smeltzer
Genre: Romantic Comedy
Release Date: April 26, 2019

Blurb

WANTED: A ROOMMATE
Requirements
 1.     Don’t be a
smoker. That’s gross.
2.     Don’t be a jerk. I
have no time to deal with your mood swings.
3.     Clean up after
yourself. Is it really so hard to put dirty clothes where they belong?
If you meet these qualifications, call me.
Sincerely,
Desperately Seeking Roommate
When I put the ad in my university’s newspaper, the last
thing I ever expect is for the star football player to respond.
From what I know of him, Abel Russo is a womanizer and an
absolute jerk.
Sadly, he’s the only thing stopping me from being evicted by
my annoyingly gleeful landlord.
It should be easy enough—there’s no chance we’ll fall for
each other. But then he gives me lingering looks, and I might just be looking
back. 
All I wanted was a roommate, but I’m about to get so much
more than I bargained for.   
Review:

Desperately Seeking RoommateDesperately Seeking Roommate by Micalea Smeltzer

Desperately Seeking Roommate (ARC) was graciously provided to me by Give Me Books PR for an honest review. I have voluntarily read this book and have provided my honest opinion.

                                                  Big Bird and Lemon Starbursts   

A delightfully entertaining and humorous read filled with predominantly low-angst moments with characters who had this uncanny way of bringing this reader right along for the ride in a chemistry-filled, insta love kind-of-love story.  One with a hunky and dedicated football player and a quirky and confident journalist and an absolutely adorable cast of secondary characters, who for the most part, may have had me wrapped right around their chubby little fingers..

Desperately Seeking Roommate, by Micalea Smeltzer, turned out to be one of those new reads that I was glad that it had initially been one of those that had to be read..immediately.  As this easy-to-read somewhat lengthy upcoming release situated itself right on my plate as a new must-read, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this uplifting love story.

With its varied college-age storyline, and, plentiful characters, this story wound up being one that I was drawn to for its content.  I love stories which contain intrinsically good people with warmly glowing hearts-of-gold.  They each deserve..to shine.  I enjoyed how this heart-warming theme was developed and brought out into the open for all readers.

That being said, however, it is in this reader’s opinion, that there was a need for more depth and development, as a whole, there was also a need for more pizazz for that one great surprising twist, that as I was kind of expecting to have that squealing-mouth agape-startled-kind-of-moment.  But..no squealing.  I love squealing!  In addition, there was also that hope for a more realistic turn-of-events, for the most part, and lastly, there was also a need for another run through with the ending process as there were various typos.  However..it was still such an enjoyable read.

All in all, Desperately Seeking Roommate, by Micalea Smeltzer, is one of those reads that will have all readers giggle-snort-cackling their way through this read, with dreamy heart-shaped eyes, through a college-age sweet and hopeful story with many reasons to hope for more from these characters in future books..I really enjoyed it.:)

*star rating: 4.00 ‘I really liked this story’ stars*

Excerpt
Abel’s lips turn up but he doesn’t take his eyes off the road. “Like what you see, Blondie?”
My cheeks redden at being caught, but I stick my chin haughtily into the air unwilling to cower at being called out. “Maybe there’s a bug on your face.”
That smile of his widens. “There’s not.”
“So confident,” I mutter, crossing my arms over my chest and staring out the windshield.
“Why wouldn’t I be?
You kissed me.”
“I kissed you back, big difference.” I kick my flip-flops off and rest my bare feet on the dashboard.
“Kissing back is still kissing.”
“Ugh,” I toss my hands up, “you’re impossible.”
“Impossibly handsome? Charming? Irresistible? All three? Definitely all three.” He answers his own question.
Purchase Links
AMAZON US / UK / CA / AU
Free in Kindle Unlimited
Author Bio
Hi.
I’m Micalea. Ma-call-e-uh. Weird name, I know. My mom must’ve known I was going to be odd even in the womb. I’ve written a lot of books. Like a lot. Don’t ask me how many, I don’t remember at this point. I have an unhealthy addiction to Diet Coke but I can’t seem to break the habit. I listen to way too much music
and hedgehogs have taken over my life. Crazy is the word that best sums up my life, but it’s the good kind of crazy and I wouldn’t change it for anything.
Author Links
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Luca by Brenda Rothert; Blog Tour w/ Synopsis, Excerpt, Review, and, Purchase Links!

Posted on April 24, 2019 by LauraAdmin

Today we are celebrating the release of LUCA by Brenda Rothert. This is a contemporary romance, standalone, and it is the second title in the Chicago Blaze hockey romance series.

Luca by Brenda Rothert

Chicago Blaze, #2

Now Available

Book Blurb:

Abby

I only have one love now—the home furnishings business I’m building into an empire. Maybe money and success can’t love me back, but they keep what’s left of my heart safe. One-night stands are my way of scratching the occasional itch I get for something more. And no one’s better for that than a sexy as sin hockey player I’ll never see again after one very hot night together.

Luca

I used to love two things: hockey and women. But now my nieces and nephew are my top priority, because I’m raising them after tragedy stole their parents. Somehow I balance single parenthood and my career as a forward for the Chicago Blaze. There’s no time for women, until I get knocked on my ass by Abby Daniels. She’s everything I’ve ever wanted, but her devastating past may end us before we even get started.

Excerpt:

“Hold still, Uncle Luca.”

My niece Emerson gives me her best glare, but she’s five and cute, so it makes me smile.

“I’m trying,” I tell her, checking out the dark purple polish she’s trying to brush onto my nails.

It’s not my inability to hold still that has more nail polish on my skin than my nails; it’s her technique. My “MANicure”, as my two nieces like to call it, started with my ten-year-old niece Cora and was then passed off to Emerson.

“I found yogurt!” Cora says as she breezes into my bathroom. “It’s got strawberries in the bottom, but that’s okay. This face mask will make you smell good, Uncle Luca.”

I try not to roll my eyes. It’ll be better than the last face mask they whipped up in the kitchen, which had butter in it and was a bitch to scrub off in the shower.

“I have to leave for practice in twenty-five minutes,” I remind the girls. “And I still need a shower. So you have ten more minutes to beautify me.”

“Will you paint my nails, too?” Cora asks me.

“Sure.”

I was shit at painting nails when I first became the legal guardian of my two nieces and one nephew a little over a year ago. With practice, though, I’ve gotten pretty damn good at it.

“How long ‘til Gram and Gramps will be here?” Emerson asks, still painting my thumb nail even though she’s looking at me.

“About four hours ‘til their flight lands, then maybe an hour for them to get to the house.”

Her toothless grin of excitement makes me ignore the nail polish I can feel on my knuckle.

“Emerson!” Cora yells. “You ruined it! That looks awful.”

Cora picks up the bottle of purple nail polish and Emerson’s happy expression drops away.

“Give it to me,” Cora huffs, holding out her hand for the handle to the polish. “I never should have let you do it.”

“Hey, now.” I give Cora a sharp look. “She was doing her best.”

Cora’s eyes flood with tears. Emerson edges closer to me, because she knows what happens when Cora gets upset.

“He won’t let us do spa days if you mess it up!” Cora cries, glaring at her younger sister. “You ruined everything!”

“You didn’t ruin anything,” I tell Emerson. “And Cora, I never said we wouldn’t do this again. We can do a big spa day after my road trip, okay?”

Cora wipes her eyes and nods, still crying. It kills me to see her like this. As the oldest, she carries more of the weight from the deaths of her parents than her siblings. We’ve been in counseling for more than a year now, transitioning through the death of their mother, my sister-in-law Danielle, to the kids’ new life with me as their guardian. The clinical terms for what Cora struggles with—anxiety and controlling tendencies—are easier for me to handle than her breakdowns.

The tension leaves the room and Emerson starts my massage, which is pretty much just her karate chopping my shoulders, while Cora slathers strawberry yogurt onto my face.

“Is your shoulder better?” Cora asks me.

“Yep, it’s all good.”

“Think my mashage helped?” Emerson asks from behind me.

She can’t pronounce some words, and I kinda hope that’ll last longer, because it gets me every time.

“It definitely helped,” I tell her.

I tweaked my shoulder at practice yesterday, and Cora noticed me wince when I was taking out the trash last night. She worries about every sinus cold and bruise I get. I can’t blame the kid. Her dad, my brother Matt, died serving in Iraq and her mom passed away from cancer a year later.

“Hey, let’s get your nails painted, Cora,” I say after glancing at my watch. “I’ve only got five minutes til I have to hit the shower.” I turn to Emerson. “Can you go get the nail polish remover, peanut?”

“Okay.” She races from the room, brown curls flying behind her.

Review:

Luca by Brenda Rothert
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Luca (Chicago Blaze, #2) (ARC) was graciously provided to me by Inkslinger PR for an honest review. I have voluntarily read this book and have provided my honest opinion.

                               Superman Disguised as a Strong and Mighty Hockey Player..

An absolutely amazing story with heart-breaking and emotional moments has taken this reader by surprise as this story was able to interweave such gut-wrenching trigger-filled topics and mold them into such a beautiful story filled with sweet, sexy, angsty and adorable hopeful moments of peace..

It is no surprise that I have been excitedly waiting for this particular new release, after having read the first book of the series, Anton, and loved it, this next book in the Chicago Blaze Hockey Series, was placed immediately at the very top of my highly-anticipated to-read list.  And…I freakin’ loved it!

Luca, by Brenda Rothert was such a great story..  It was definitely well-worth the wait.  With its gripping and heartfelt moments, my emotions were on high-alert as the plot was very often upsetting, and indescribably frustrating.  GAH!!  As if the author could already hear the silent screams of future readers, with me leading the way, its plot and tone switches interchangeably into one that soothes the broken hearts of all.

Luca is one of those stories that has an amalgamation of practically every emotion and readers are able to truly understand the incredibly realistic journey the main characters, as well as a few of the secondary ones, needed to endure and understand in order to survive…  Moments of immense raw pain, denial, desperation, chivalry, contained excitement, need, prideful understanding, continued denial, exhaustion, honesty, strength, humor, actual excitement, and..love were clearly felt by this reader.  Despite it containing such gripping and challenging moments, I loved how it all came together in such a seemingly smooth way that with such great characters, wonderful humanistic moments, as well as a hopeful future, it turned out to be such an exciting read.

    Luca, by Brenda Rothert was predictably going to be one of those “EEP! The-next-book-of-the-series-is-here-and-I-need-to-read-it-right-now!!” kind-of-book.  And..*pffft* it so was.  Hockey stories always seem to have that extra form-of-excitement that I always seem to enjoy.  Even though it did contain a smattering of typos, it once again, really didn’t make a difference as it was such an excellent story and I definitely recommend it as I really, really liked it..:)

*star rating: 5.00 ‘I really, really liked it’ stars*

*Add the book to your TBR list here!

     Purchase on Amazon | Nook | Kobo | Apple Books

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————–

AUTHOR INFORMATION:

Brenda Rothert is an Illinois native who was a print journalist for nine years. She made the jump from fact to fiction in 2013 and never looked back. From new adult to steamy contemporary romance, Brenda creates fresh characters in every story she tells. She’s a lover of Diet Coke, chocolate, lazy weekends and happily ever afters.

AUTHOR LINKS:

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Wattpad | Amazon

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Luca by Brenda Rothert (Arc) Review!

Posted on April 23, 2019 by LauraAdmin

Luca (Chicago Blaze, #2)Luca by Brenda Rothert
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Luca (Chicago Blaze, #2) (ARC) was graciously provided to me by Inkslinger PR for an honest review. I have voluntarily read this book and have provided my honest opinion.

                               Superman Disguised as a Strong and Mighty Hockey Player..

An absolutely amazing story with heart-breaking and emotional moments has taken this reader by surprise as this story was able to interweave such gut-wrenching trigger-filled topics and mold them into such a beautiful story filled with sweet, sexy, angsty and adorable hopeful moments of peace..

It is no surprise that I have been excitedly waiting for this particular new release, after having read the first book of the series, Anton, and loved it, this next book in the Chicago Blaze Hockey Series, was placed immediately at the very top of my highly-anticipated to-read list.  And…I freakin’ loved it!

Luca, by Brenda Rothert was such a great story..  It was definitely well-worth the wait.  With its gripping and heartfelt moments, my emotions were on high-alert as the plot was very often upsetting, and indescribably frustrating.  GAH!!  As if the author could already hear the silent screams of future readers, with me leading the way, its plot and tone switches interchangeably into one that soothes the broken hearts of all.

Luca is one of those stories that has an amalgamation of practically every emotion and readers are able to truly understand the incredibly realistic journey the main characters, as well as a few of the secondary ones, needed to endure and understand in order to survive…  Moments of immense raw pain, denial, desperation, chivalry, contained excitement, need, prideful understanding, continued denial, exhaustion, honesty, strength, humor, actual excitement, and..love were clearly felt by this reader.  Despite it containing such gripping and challenging moments, I loved how it all came together in such a seemingly smooth way that with such great characters, wonderful humanistic moments, as well as a hopeful future, it turned out to be such an exciting read.

    Luca, by Brenda Rothert was predictably going to be one of those “EEP! The-next-book-of-the-series-is-here-and-I-need-to-read-it-right-now!!” kind-of-book.  And..*pffft* it so was.  Hockey stories always seem to have that extra form-of-excitement that I always seem to enjoy.  Even though it did contain a smattering of typos, it once again, really didn’t make a difference as it was such an excellent story and I definitely recommend it as I really, really liked it..:)

*star rating: 5.00 ‘I really, really liked it’ stars*

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Until Midnight: A Drive Me Wild and Until Series Crossover Novella by Gwendolyn Grace (Arc) Review!

Posted on April 20, 2019 by LauraAdmin

Until Midnight: A Drive Me Wild and Until Series Crossover NovellaUntil Midnight: A Drive Me Wild and Until Series Crossover Novella by Gwendolyn Grace

Until Midnight (ARC) was graciously provided to me by Buoni Amici Press for an honest review. I have voluntarily read this book and have provided my honest opinion.

A Gripping, Angsty New Read With A Twist..     

WOAH…what did I just read?  There were so many yummy, yes, I am freely using this word to describe parts of this book as there were so many great moments which came to my attention.  And, that word is…YUMMY!  Tattoos, muscle-car car racing, men changing for love, and…ALPHAS!  Oh yeeeeah..they are one of my weaknesses.  And, this story has all of this..

My most current read was a uniquely mysterious, angsty, exciting, and, emotional new read that caught my eye immediately and was successful in keeping a hold of this reader as I was initially introduced to this world, and, I was very eager for more.  More of these tattooed, deep, and, good-hearted individuals..

Until Midnight, by Gwendolyn Grace, is a novella but has the ingredients of a full-length novel.  Its busy storyline certainly, as the saying goes, kept me on the edge of my seat throughout the read, as it is a conglomeration of the Drive Me Wild and the Until Series.  Readers of these series will be squealing through this new read as there are many cameos from both of these series. Even though I have not read either, it did not take away from the enjoyment of this new release.  Its characters were plentiful and each had their own plot and even sub-plot, as a mix of it all made-up a thrilling story that many readers will enjoy.

Boy-oh-boy Until Midnight was quite the read, and, at its conclusion, I came away with a mix of emotions.  One being, slight buzzed confusion, because I felt like I needed a road map, or something, because not only was there a great initial storyline, between the two main characters, with a plot that would lead them to their…HEA, but, there also was a very hefty subplot as well.  As the initial plot started off great, it quickly took off with having so-much-to-it, that the actual structure of the plot was lost. I needed more development and actual clear depth, as well as, more character background and development for a clearly structured and paced storyline and plot.

I really enjoyed the characters, some more than others, and, was eager to read more about their own seemingly interesting backgrounds, and, so very much need a little Brando and a little Bash just so that I can place them right into my very own pocket, as they were just so sweet and adorable having been written perfectly..

Even for a novella, Until Midnight, was such an intriguing read, and, even though I had wished for more structure and development, it has so much potential to be such a fantastic story with that great storyline and that jaw-dropping twist.  With its abundant characters, its gripping, heart-breaking, and, heart-warming plot, I still enjoyed it, and, thoroughly recommend it..:)

*star rating: 4.00 ‘I liked it’ stars*

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Starting from Zero by Lane Hayes; Release Blitz w/ Synopsis, Excerpt, and, Giveaway!

Posted on April 19, 2019 by LauraAdmin

Title: Starting From Zero

Series: Starting From Series, Book 1

Author: Lane Hayes

Publisher: Lane Hayes

Release Date: April 15

Heat Level: 4 – Lots of Sex

Pairing: Male/Male

Length: 68000

Genre: Romance, Rock star, May/December romance, Bisexual, LA, Humor, New beginning

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Synopsis

Justin Cuevas is going through a rough patch. A broken relationship, a scandal, and the demise of his band have shaken the aspiring rock star’s confidence. Working two jobs and sleeping on his friend’s sofa isn’t ideal, but Justin isn’t ready to give up yet. With a little luck, he’s hoping to re-launch his music career in LA with his new band, Zero. The key is to stay focused, and not get distracted by his past…or the sexy songwriter he can’t get out of his head.

Gray Robertson has written dozens of hits and worked with some of the biggest names in the industry. But he’s never met anyone like Justin. The younger man is fiery, passionate, and smart. A powerful voice for a new generation. Other than an unforgettable one-night stand and a passion for music, the two men have nothing in common. Or do they? Justin knows the out-of-the-blue challenge to write a quintessential love song is a huge opportunity. And it’s the ultimate test for someone who’s doesn’t believe in happily ever after. When sparks fly, Justin and Gray realize they have a shot something special if they start from zero together. Maybe even love.

Excerpt

Justin turned to me with a fiery expression and gestured toward the glittering lights below. “Everyone here wants more than what they have. And I guess I’m the same. I don’t need recognition and I sure as fuck don’t want love, but I wouldn’t say no to a few bucks,” he commented with a laugh. “What about you?”

I did a double take. I was two steps behind, struggling to keep up, and if possible, memorize every word he’d said. I hadn’t been around anyone so raw or so honest in a long time. He made rules and broke them with at whim, letting me in and then shutting me out. He had a way of revealing himself that made me feel as though he was holding a mirror to me, daring me to acknowledge my broken pieces too. He was either slightly insane or incredibly gifted. I suspected it was the latter. The cadence of his speech lured me in…and made me want more. I’d tell him anything he wanted to know, just to be near him and this intense spark of…newness, creativity, and wonder.

“What about me?” I asked in a low raspy voice.

“What do you want to accomplish before you leave the planet?”

“I want to write the perfect song,” I replied unthinking.

“There’s no such thing.”

“Maybe, maybe not. But it would be nice to leave something that felt special.”

Justin held my gaze then inclined his head in agreement. “Yeah. I want that too.”

We stared at each other. Whispers of conversation floated from the far corners of the rooftop deck. We weren’t alone, but we might as well be. I couldn’t remember ever feeling so intimately connected to someone I’d never really touched. It was puzzling and enchanting at the same time.

He shivered when the breeze kicked up. I took it as a sign from above and pulled him against me. I had to feel him. I studied the sexy indentation in his bottom lip before giving into impulse and resting my hands on his hip. Justin gave me a funny look but he didn’t push me away.

“You shouldn’t be anonymous. You have too much to share. Too much to say,” I said.

“What are you doing?”

“I…I’m not sure. Is this okay?”

“Yeah. It’s good.” Justin nodded and snaked his arms around my waist.

We were still for a while. He was so close I could feel his breath on my lips. The lingering quiet was deceptive. A casual observer might have mistaken us for old lovers engaged in a tender moment. Or maybe they’d guess we were tentative strangers anxious to make the right moves. Not too fast, not too slow. Neither was correct. There was no quiet here. An electric current sizzled and hissed between us. Intense sexual awareness and something more. Something fiery and passionate. He was wild and rough with jagged edges and a sharp mind. Instinctively, I knew I should proceed with caution because walking away wasn’t an option.

“I want to kiss you,” I whispered, inching closer so our noses brushed.

Justin gave me a crooked smile and tugged at my belt loop. “Then do it.”

I tilted my chin slightly and pressed my lips to his. He was deceptively tender at first. He closed his eyes and hummed into the connection. When I licked at the corner of his mouth, he let me in without hesitation. I couldn’t get enough. He tasted like gin and nicotine with a hint of peppermint. All the things I apparently couldn’t do without.

I pulled him closer, cupping the back of his neck to kiss him harder and deeper. Our tongues twisted in a growing frenzy until everything and everyone around us dissolved into white noise. Justin lulled me into complacency and let me think I was in control. I pushed him back slightly and wrapped my fingers around his neck to keep him in place when he leaned forward to nip my bottom lip. He grinned like a madman and then lowered his eyelashes in a show of faux subservience. I didn’t trust him to stay still or obey for a second. Justin was wild and headstrong. He wasn’t going to do anything that wasn’t either his idea or a bad idea.

I should have known then that I’d met my match.

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Meet the Author

Lane Hayes is finally doing what she loves best. Writing! An avid reader from an early age, Lane has always been drawn to romance novels. She truly believes there is nothing more inspiring than a well-told love story with beautifully written characters. Lane discovered the M/M genre a fews ago and was instantly hooked. She is the bestselling author of the Better Than, Right and Wrong, A Kind of Stories and Leaning Into Series and the Out in College series. Lane’s novels placed first in the 2016 and 2017 Rainbow Awards. She loves travel, chocolate, and wine (in no particular order). Lane lives in Southern California with her amazing husband in an empty nest.

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