Even though this is my first read out of the nine installments in the Highland Brides series, I had no issues with confusion over characters or events. To anyone wondering if this book stands on its own or if there's any piece of storyline that carries over from previous books, you're free to one-click now. I give the author credit for not overwhelming the reader with the large amounts of past characters and solely focusing on the two main characters: Lady Elysande de Valance and Rory Buchanan.
Rory Buchanan is the "healer" of the Highland brothers and is one of the last single men standing. His family has been shamelessly trying to put an end to his bachelorhood by finding eligible women for him, but he has no plans to pursue anyone. He's perfectly happy focusing on his patients and his goal to build his own castle in the near future. After his latest job in caring for Baron Monmouth in England, he's financially set to start making preparations to build. First, he needs to make a quick stop on his way home to Scotland and collect a "treasure" and deliver it to a family friend. He had no idea at the time that this treasure would be a woman who is running for her life and racing against the clock to save the King of England.
Lady Elysande has just survived a family massacre, a brutal beating, and the loss of everything she's ever known. Aided by loyal servants and two knights who survived, she manages to make a narrow escape with information of a treasonous plot to assassinate the King. Elysande shows strength of will and steel determination every step of the way. In my opinion, perhaps a little too unrealistically. We never really see her grieve or suffer much trauma from the harrowing experience that would break even the strongest of individuals-man or woman. She stoically sits on the saddle for days on end while rarely even letting a wince show on her face. There is no breakdown-physical or mental. I'm all for strong female leads, but this is stretching believability a tad thin if I'm being honest. In the beginning, she shows superhuman strength by hiding her pain from her escorts. After her secret is outed, we are given scene after scene where she must replenish the dreaded liniment on her back.
The time devoted to talking about the liniment that she makes and plasters on her back multiple times throughout the day started to bother me. I looked it up. There were 80 mentions of it in the book. After proving how strong she is, we switch to how very badly she needs the numbing cream to get through the day and night. The repetitiveness was a problem. It wasn't just in this one area, but the book as a whole that I felt was leaning towards repetitive. The entire journey that they were on consisted of a laundry list of tasks like: wake up, eat, apply liniment, travel, make camp and sleep, repeat. There was one scene where some conflict and suspense finally happened, but there really wasn't a strong sense of danger.
The romance between Elysande and Rory was based more on physical attraction and his respect for her strength. I liked that they were both healers and when they married would be equals in the medical trade, however I never really saw them develop a natural emotional attachment. Not to say that they didn't make a nice couple, but their story was lacking depth and development. The ending was somewhat anticlimactic in that there wasn't a big showdown with the perpetrator of the assassination plot. I was hoping for some real action to round out the story, but everything wrapped up smoothly without much tension. Having said all that, this wasn't a bad read if you're looking for a light and easy historical romance similar to the writing style of classic Julie Garwood. While it didn't wow me, it was a sweet story with a writing style that I could engage with.
“You are a man worthy of love.” Tilting her head, she added, “People may need a healer, but they do not love them. They love the man.”
[image] Title: War of Hearts Author: S. Young Release date: October 1, 2019 Cliffhanger: No Genre: paranormal romance
“A wolf is only as strong as his hear[image] Title: War of Hearts Author: S. Young Release date: October 1, 2019 Cliffhanger: No Genre: paranormal romance
“A wolf is only as strong as his heart, and my heart belongs completely to you."
I've been a reader of Samantha Young's for many years, but I'd never read any of her paranormal books. When I saw the announcement for War of Hearts, I was so eager to check it out. I haven't been able to find a ton of new books in the genre to catch my eye, so this was a more than welcome treat! You get a little bit of everything with this one: action, suspense, forbidden love, and mystery regarding Thea's identity. It's all firmly packed together in one heart-pounding package. I read this book in a 24 hour period, completely drawn in from page one. Which is quite remarkable considering the detailed paranormal world that was introduced here. Typically you have some dry spells in the plot where you're just taking in information, but for me it felt so natural and seamless. There wasn't a moment of boredom or difficulty in holding my attention.
Thea Quinn is on the run from a monster. After miraculously surviving the plane crash that her parents perished in, she was taken in by a man who became her worst nightmare. Horrifically abused, and used for her rare supernatural talents, she barely escaped the prison she escaped from. She'd rather die fighting than give up her freedom, so she travels from city to city, always looking behind her shoulder. Thea is a proud woman, very strong mentally and physically, and she has a soft heart despite the tragedy and mistreatment she's been through. This heroine is one of the most badass I've read in quite a while. Her power is almost limitless, yet untapped. Without full knowledge of what type of supernatural being she is, she lacks the awareness of her capabilities. They're used only when necessary-for others' protection as well as her own.
Conall is the alpha of the last wolf pack in Scotland, Clan MacLennan. Though they can't compare in size to many other packs, their strength is undeniable. His parents were both alphas and head of the pack before they died, and he's continuing their legacy. His home and family at Loch Torridon are everything to him. He's protective, fierce, confident, trustworthy and honorable. Someone you could trust with your life if the situation arose. But what if he were the one working with your enemy to deliver you to the devil? He's the last person you want tracking you because once he has your scent there's no escaping him. Out of desperation to help his fatally ill sister, he agrees to deliver Thea in exchange for a miracle cure. What should have been a fairly simple job for him gets complicated fast.
Conall is expecting a cold blooded killer, but after his first run-in he immediately starts to question everything he's been told about her. Nothing is quite adding up and his intuition is pricking him at the most inconvenient time. He grew attracted pretty quickly but fights it hard, knowing that his sister's life must come first. Of course, she wasn't about to roll over and accept defeat easily so it became a battle of wills between the two of them. There were a lot of adrenaline fueled fight scenes, narrow escapes, and betrayal as they made their way back to Scotland. Thea has become a target from another unknown source that puts everyone's lives in danger even further.
I loved the revelations about Thea and the history regarding her identity. I was absolutely riveted after the truth came out and couldn't put it down. Even though the romance had limited time to develop in between the main conflicts, it never felt rushed. Thea and Connall had the kind of tension and chemistry that make you just a little bit giddy as you wait for their resistance to snap. There were a million reasons why they shouldn't be together, but one very big reason why none of them mattered.
There was right and there was wrong; there was loyalty and responsibility. Everything he felt now was complicated and confusing.
This couple was incredible and easily one of my favorites from the author. Even though this is listed as a standalone, the epilogue leads you to believe that there is still more to be told in this world. You're definitely going to want to get in on this addictive book now, as soon as it's out! I cannot recommend this one enough.
[image] Title: Sugar & Gold Series: Dreamcatcher #2 Author: Emma Scott Release date: June 13, 2017 Cliffhanger: No HEA(view spoiler)[Yes (hide spoil[image]
[image] Title: Sugar & Gold Series: Dreamcatcher #2 Author: Emma Scott Release date: June 13, 2017 Cliffhanger: No HEA(view spoiler)[Yes (hide spoiler)]
It's hard to believe I've only been reading Emma Scott's books for a year now, but in that time I have discovered the of the beauty and grace of her writing. Her skill at easily drawing out my emotions for her characters has quickly made her one of my top auto-read authors. It doesn't matter what genre or subject matter she decides to explore, I'll be first to add it to my TBR.
That being said, sometimes I just can't shut off my inquisitive mind when reading, and in this case, that prevented it from being a big winner for me like they have been in the past. There were too many times I kept stopping to question the validity of different aspects of the plot. In other cases, I just wanted more of an explanation or closure. But judging by the overall excitement for this book, I know that I'm in the minority with my pickiness this time so please don't let me scare you off from checking this unique story out.
Fiona Starling is twenty-three, but only now is she getting her first taste of independence and freedom. After surviving childhood lacking in love, she reached adulthood vulnerable to the manipulative man who swept her into his web of lies. It took her years to escape the abuse at his hands, but his words still have the power to mark her every single day. His taunts and insults are a constant soundtrack to her psyche, tearing into her self-worth until she can forcibly turn down the noise.
I believed Steve had rescued me; only to find out he was carrying me off to a colder winter. A different kind of prison altogether.
Everyone has a dream. Hers is a simple one: finding peace. And Costa Rica is her plan to finally break free from the chains that still bind her.
Nikolai is a tortured man, struggling to just find some semblance of peace himself. Unlike Fiona, it isn't just one person who invades his head, it's him against the world. Every person he comes in contact with transmits emotions and sometimes even thoughts through a color and image aura he's named the ken, that only he can see. His unwanted ability to read people leads him to a lonely life on the road playing poker for a living and trying to limit human contact for his own sanity. Up until now, the only momentary escape he can find is the pain at the end of a tattoo needle. But his canvas is almost completely covered, and he's not sure how he can manage without that small comfort when it's gone.
Then he meets Fiona, and during their one night of passion something inexplicable falls into place.
It was her voice that echoed in the hollowed out place inside me that belonged to everyone but me. But she was there now and she filled it up with all that was her and I felt whole for the first time in my life.
Fiona is the first person he's met who radiates kindness, care, and compassion. The only ugliness surrounding her is the one that haunts her, and he wishes with everything he has that he can take it all away for her. When they're together, the buzz of their intense attraction is only a bonus. The real prize is the comfort and the quiet they both give each other. Though neither has any experience with a healthy relationship, and she doesn't want to alter her plans to leave the country they're both willing to try.
Fiona… My shield. Protecting me and giving me rest. And I lay beneath her, strong and unwavering. A foundation she could rely on.
Until one devastating event knocks their lives off course in a way neither could have anticipated. I have to say, the direction that the story went took me completely off guard. To be 100% honest, I didn't love this twist. I felt as if there were too many details that didn't seem at all plausible.
(view spoiler)[After she hits a pedestrian on the street and severely injures her, she's sent to prison for three years. There was a distinct lack of a hearing, trial...in a matter of DAYS while he was gone she was sentenced to three years in prison for reckless driving. When she hadn't even been speeding...though they said she was. There were clearly other people at the crime scene, witnesses who helped the victim. And yet, because the injured woman was a senator's daughter, Fiona got imprisoned for years on his say so. Similarly, her release was equally quick and easy. (hide spoiler)]
The main characters were sweet together, the secondary characters endearing and supportive friends. I did enjoy this couple, and the PNR element was one that I was really interested to read about. But the nagging plot points were rearing their head.
(view spoiler)[For example, one thing I couldn't let go was Fiona's own abilities that were hinted at through the book. There were two instances where she had prophetic dreams about Nik, just as Evan can do from How To Save a Life. (He makes an appearance in this book as well.) As well, she had a curious knowledge of the color auras. I felt as if all of these hints were leading somewhere substantial but we never discovered any particular meaning.
"Evan said that what he and I do is to tap into the energies of the universe.” He smiled sleepily at me. “Maybe you did that too.” “Maybe, but how? Why me?” Nik reached for me, pulled me up to nestle me against his chest. “You’re part of this too, baby,” he said.
She's part of it too? How? Why?
When Fiona is explaining to him what she believes certain colors to mean, she says gold is a romantic, fairy tale kind of love.
(46%) “Gold is the color of love.” She rested her cheek on my chest. “Not the love between family members, or mothers and their children. I mean the fairytale love, where the prince would do anything for the princess, even if it meant his own life. And the princess would sacrifice herself to the dragon if it would save the prince. The kind of love that… transcends, though I didn’t have that word at the time.”
Nik's immediate thoughts were: My thoughts drifted back to Fiona’s color poems. It doesn’t mean anything… It’s just a coincidence. Except that pink was exactly as she’d described: how the ken translated kindness. And gold? I’d never seen gold.
Then I remembered that he had, in fact seen the color gold, earlier in the book. When Fi's neighbor came over to visit, the color flared in response to the child. Not only that, but they appeared in response to a non-romantic type of love.
(26%) More doorbell ringing followed, and Fiona’s face lit up, the light around her flaring pink and gold.
Fiona's divorce: as she was preparing to leave the country, she asks her friend to serve divorce papers to her ex whom she is legally still married to. It's never mentioned again if his address was found, if it went through before they left the country...? Steve is not exactly the type to be accommodating with her. He was the definition of narcissistic and selfish. So now I'm wondering as they escape to their happily ever after if she's still tied to the monster of her past. There was no closure for me.
And one other thing that made me sit back and wonder was Fiona's need to break her parole conditions and use a fake passport. I understood why she needed one originally before she met Nik. She was on the run, and using a false name. But now? Why would she risk getting thrown back in prison for her original sentence, PLUS an additional ten years for false papers? I just didn't get why she took such a monumental risk just because she didn't want to wait. (hide spoiler)]
Issues aside, what I loved most about this book was Fiona's journey to self-empowerment. Spousal emotional abuse is an important topic to be educated about, and I feel as if it was very delicately and respectfully addressed. Fiona came out stronger in the end, realizing that she alone was relinquishing her power to him, and she had to make the choice to own it and take it back.
While this wasn't a huge five star win for me, I know that many others loved it wholeheartedly, so I urge everyone to give this a chance if it sounds like something they would enjoy. It was an original story with a miraculous kind of love that had the strength to heal two very broken people.
*Though Sugar & Gold is connected to How to Save a Life with recurring characters, this is a complete STANDALONE. I did not read HTSAL and had no issues whatsoever.
[image] Title: Everything I Left Unsaid Series: Everything I Left Unsaid #1 Author: M. O'Keefe Release date: October 13, 2015 Cliffhanger: Yes HEA(v[image]
[image] Title: Everything I Left Unsaid Series: Everything I Left Unsaid #1 Author: M. O'Keefe Release date: October 13, 2015 Cliffhanger: Yes HEA(view spoiler)[No (hide spoiler)]
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I'm a little late to the game with this book. I had this ARC offered to me quite a while back and I'm just now getting around to reading and reviewing. I am seriously considering smacking myself for this this foolish mistake. This is a well established author, but completely new to me and I was really impressed with the skill in her storytelling. The writing style was exactly the type I go for: nicely descriptive and fast flowing. Saying that it's fast flowing is really saying a lot considering the hero and heroine don't meet until well into the book. Their knowledge of one another consists of some dirty phone calls with short conversations. I fine with that though in this case. This part of the story was all about Annie's exploration into her sexuality and his ability to push her into seeking out her secret, naughty desires. She needs time to find the woman inside who hasn't been allowed to spread her wings since her mother passed away and she fell into hell.
The lake of bitterness and anger was gone, replaced by a desire for everything. A hunger for it all. I felt empty and wide open to the world. Waiting for experience to fill me up. Satiate me.
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Annie has just escaped an abusive relationship. She's a woman on the run and hiding in the filthiest, cheapest part of nowhere where she can disappear and start a new life.
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Even living in a run down, dangerous trailer park, she feels like she's been handed the world. She was such an interesting and refreshing character. On one side she's been so sheltered and she has a naive quality about her. She's not familiar with a lot of simple things in life that people take for granted. But conversely, she also has the old soul. The side that has been beaten and survived loss. In those eyes you see the painful knowledge of emotional and physical abuse, the loss of the only family she's ever known, and hardship. She fascinated me, she really did.
When she begins the strange communication with Dylan over the cell phone found in her trailer, she starts a journey of self-discovery and carnal fantasy.
How far would she go? She wanted dark? He had all the dark. All of it.
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Suddenly she's doing things she's never dared to even admit to herself that she craves. Dylan was mysterious and seeped in darkness. But those three words that begin every conversation are a temptation she can't resist.
"Are you okay?"
Just three simple words, spoken with sincerity and concern over her welfare. It was something she was never given in her life and she reached for it like a flower in the sunlight. Even though he was your dominant and dirty talker type, he was unable to hide the fact that he cared. About a faceless girl who picked up the phone and through just his words and direction found release and a dangerous addiction. He's as needy as she is, for her freshness, her raw and honest emotion. He finds that so irresistible.
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The game that they play is on a very slippery slope. He's secretive and emotionally wounded. He's completely against forming an emotional attachment-and probably the last person she should involve herself with at the worst point in her life. They both hold secrets and are unable to be open with one another. So it's only a matter of time before what they have implodes.
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This was a great first book, part one of a duo. It's what I would describe as an mildly dark erotic book with a solid story to back it up. What a nice surprise this was, I can't recommend it enough. Although the abused heroine on the run trope is not a new one, this had a completely refreshing feel to it. There is a pretty intense cliffhanger at the end here, so be prepared. The Truth About Him releases on November 24.
[image] Title: Perfect Ruin Series: Unyielding #2 Author: Nashoda Rose Release date: December 14, 2015 Cliffhanger: No HEA(view spoiler)[Yes (hide s[image]
[image] Title: Perfect Ruin Series: Unyielding #2 Author: Nashoda Rose Release date: December 14, 2015 Cliffhanger: No HEA(view spoiler)[Yes (hide spoiler)]
No key fit a perfectly ruined lock. Because that was what we were. Both ruined, but perfect together.
I think I'm a little insane to not only have started this series, but to be continuing it considering I haven't read the Tear Asunder series. The Tear Asunder and Unyielding series are both interconnected with overlapping and continuing storylines. And though I was able to maneuver myself around Book #1 (Perfect Chaos) with little to no issues, I began to have some confusion with this installment. It's been over a year since I read the previous book and in that time, I managed to forget quite a bit. I had to do some skimming in order to catch myself up to date again. These book definitely cannot be read out of order.
This book isn't fluff and it isn't something you can halfheartedly pay attention to. At times it was very difficult to read with subject matter that can cut right through you and make your skin crawl. What the heroine is forced to go through, to survive, and to come out the other side still able to piece herself back together again was a miraculous thing. This book shows us the horrible depths that humanity can go to in the name of greed and power. It shows us two people who have survived their own versions of hell and must fight incredible odds to be able to find a little bit of peace together.
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Throughout this book, we're taken through several flashbacks and jumps back forward. It finally sheds light on Kai and London's history and how a cold hearted man such as him fell so completely for a woman he wasn't supposed to have. Although he is a remorseless killer who's morals have been eradicated from him by the Vault as a child, I never hated him. Because I understood where he came from and how little choices he had been afforded, I never saw him as the enemy. Any tragedy that occurred because of his actions was due to his will to survive the Vault, find a way to get his revenge, and move on. Plain and simple.
London was a heroine that was fascinating to read about. Her hardship was something that most would never be able to recover from.
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Yet she gained her nickname "braveheart" for a reason. She was stubborn, strong, and did whatever she had to do to make it to the next day. She suffered agony and humiliation, but picked herself up time and again and that was what made her work so well with Kai. They were both damaged, but until their last breath not beaten. She was intelligent and her fire matched his so perfectly.
This was why I'd protected her. Why I cared. London's strength challenged my own.
There were a million reasons why they should have stayed away from each other. If even a hint of their true feelings for each other was known, there would be irrevocable consequences. But being together was filling up those dark places inside that hadn't seen light in so long. And it was impossible to turn away.
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I can't say a whole lot about the plot. The books are so connected, so I'm attempting to keep this short and sweet to avoid spoilers. If you haven't started this series yet, I would recommend this series to anyone looking for something that's a little grittier, something that's going to grab you tight and make you feel.This book was packed full of action, suspense, and an upheaval of emotions. The development of these characters and story was done incredibly well. I do recommend starting with the Tear Asunder series, it will makes things easier on you, but like me, you could read these first if you wanted. They're difficult to read at times, but well worth the effort.
Title:Stolen Innocence Series:Standalone Author:S.M. Stryker Release date: September 15, 2014 Rating:1 star Cliffhanger:No HEA: (view spoiler)[Yes [image]
Title:Stolen Innocence Series:Standalone Author:S.M. Stryker Release date: September 15, 2014 Rating:1 star Cliffhanger:No HEA: (view spoiler)[Yes (hide spoiler)]
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I tried to stop myself from writing a review, but I can't hold it in. This book was...this book just...I can't even...this is how this book made me feel:
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I'm only asking myself two questions right now. Dear lord, HOW did I read this entire book? And more importantly, Why??
It was like a compulsion. The more I read, the more I had to find out if it got better. I kept saying, "All right, that has to be it. That's the worst of it. Right?" I can't explain it, I just couldn't stop. It was like reading a fantasy book with really idiotic characters that don't make a lick of sense. Please, spare yourself the disbelief and scorn and
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First of all, the heroine is 18, she just left home and escaped her sexually abusive stepfather who forced himself on her since the age of 13 when her mother died. She's now in college living in a crap apartment and starting a new job. Suddenly-BAM! She trips and falls and I'll give you one guess who catches her. Our hero of course. I was willing to get past that cliché, but after she runs off, She bumps into him not 1, not 2, THREE more times. Yeah, she runs into this total stranger at random spots in the city every day and even though she has this Cinderella complex he keeps finding her again.
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After I read this, I was like, Um-Ok. That's....ridiculous. But maybe it's just me. This is going to get better.
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I should have quit when I was ahead.
There were so many things regarding her sexual abuse in her past that was unrealistic. So many.
She falls in major lust with him immediately. She falls for him pretty much on their first date. Like, starts thinking the "L" word to herself. She has NO sexual hangups with him. NO flashbacks before or during sex, Everything is just hunky-dory.
I guess this magical, fated love they have cured her of her "demons". Rainbows and Unicorns, guys.
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One last thing and I really have to stop, but I have to say, this was the dumbest hero I have ever read.
He had absolutely, not the first clue about her abuse. None. Hey, Ian: Yoo Hoo! *knock knock* Anybody home? This guy is the kind of man you use as a blueprint to build an idiot. For reals.
Reasons anyone would realize she was abused:
She has not even a hint of experience with dating or men. She wants to become a counselor for kids who were sexually abused. She told him she had a horrible childhood and she has "Demons" She gets fear in her eyes when he mentions her stepfather and won't talk about him.
He is shocked. SHOCKED I tell you, when he finds out.
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And the nail in his coffin of stupidity:
Fact #1: She told him she's never been kissed. Fact #2: She told him she's never had a boyfriend. Fact #3: He gives her an orgasm and she doesn't know what happened to her. Fact #4: They have sex for the first time and he is stunned by her virginity.
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My one goal in writing this:
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And I have to stop myself. I feel so annoyed I could go on, but I'll spare you any more gory details.
Title:He Saved Me Series:He Found Me #2 Author:Whitney Barbetti Release date: December 18, 2014 Ra**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
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Title:He Saved Me Series:He Found Me #2 Author:Whitney Barbetti Release date: December 18, 2014 Rating:3.5-4 stars Cliffhanger:No HEA: (view spoiler)[Yes (hide spoiler)]
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3.5-4 stars
He Found Me was one of my favorite New Adult reads this year and it ended in a cliffhanger (thought it was very manageable). So of course, I was eagerly on board to read the conclusion to the He Found Me series. I've read several of Whitney Barbetti's books now and I can honestly say that I have a great connection with her writing. With some authors you can slip into their books and get attached to their characters without any effort and for me, she is one of those. I was so happy to read the conclusion to Andra and Julian's journey. They struggle through secrets, danger, separation, and trust. Andra's was dealt a horrible blow with the death of her mother and the following abuse from her stepfather and it takes Julian's unswerving support to bring her out of the darkness.
In this book, their relationship is tested when once and for all. Andra must decide to stop running and face her past.
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When Julian tracks Andra down with Mira, their reunion was bittersweet. Andra is worried about putting Julian at risk as well as putting her heart at risk.
He was here, with me. I hadn't had a moment to myself since he'd arrived and while happiness soared within me, fear did too. Fear for Julian. Fear for this depth of feeling.
Julian and Andra did get to fit in a little sexy time together, but with Six and Mira underfoot, it wasn't much. I loved seeing them reconnect though, they had that same chemistry that I loved in the previous book. It went deeper than just an erotic, emotionless, coming together. They have a depth of feeling between them that makes every scene between them more meaningful and sweet. And Whitney always does a great job expressing and conveying that and making me feel it.
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So for me, this book pretty much confirmed all the feelings I had for these characters. Julian was as sweet and sexy as ever, Andra was a survivor and while she acted foolish in doing what she did with no one's knowledge, I couldn't help but admire her courage. Six was still his mysterious self, and Mira....well she was the most intriguing of all. Clearly, we know that she's been severely wounded, probably mentally and physically and she's become as prickly as a grizzly bear. She's unapproachable, rude, blunt, and hard. But at times you see a softness peeking out of her that her damaged side tries to cover up.
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Six and Mira are getting their own book next and I am so excited to peek inside these two character's heads. Mira is one of those characters you have a love-hate relationship with. But the way she and Six have this unspoken bond and connection that's lasted over 10 years shows how vulnerable she is to this one man and I can't wait to see where they started, but most especially where they're headed.
Whitney not only wrapped up some questions left unanswered from the previous book, but she gave us a couple of twists and some added suspense to round out the story. My only reasoning for not rating higher was the fact that this one was shorter and while I did enjoy it, I did guess what the twist was early on and it didn't leave me thrown off balance or shocked. For anyone who read book one and is also planning on reading Six Feet Under, this is a must read. You get a lot of information and get set up for the upcoming book. And if you've read Ten Below Zero, if you pay attention closely, the characters are indirectly mentioned here-so keep your eyes peeled. This was a great conclusion and I'm looking forward to getting to know Six and Mira in more detail.
This book is temporarily free on Amazon. It's a fantastic freebie. I really recommend snatching it up!
**ARC generously provided by author for an honesThis book is temporarily free on Amazon. It's a fantastic freebie. I really recommend snatching it up!
**ARC generously provided by author for an honest review**
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Title:He Found Me Series:He Found Me #1 Author: Whitney Barbetti Release Date: May 28, 2014 Rating:4.5 stars Cliffhanger:yes HEA: (view spoiler)[Not yet (hide spoiler)]
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"My life was a series of real-life nightmares. But tonight, I'd leave everything. Leave Cora Mitchell behind in search of freedom."
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I love a book with some suspense and angst thrown in. If done right, It adds that extra bit that makes putting a book down that much harder. For me, it must be balanced out with a decent amount of romance-it can't be overpowered by drama. This balancing act is a tricky thing. If you veer too much in one direction, it may leave some readers disappointed. That's why books that seem to be pieced together with multiple things: suspense, sweet romance, angst, a little mystery, and passion-they don't always achieve that book that has a little something for everybody. I was so impressed with this author's ability to equally delve into each category just the right amount while making the characters seem real and genuine. I was honestly blown away by her writing style-it was vividly striking. Beautifully descriptive in just the style that pulls me into the story and allows me to escape into another world.
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This is the story of Cora Mitchell (Andra) and her escape from a life that was a pain filled nightmare caused by tragic events. Her life was made up of two parts: the before and the after. Before, she was a happy, well adjusted girl who had love and support from her mother. After, she was lost, abused, lonely, numb, and living a life that seemed to have no escape. One night changes everything though. With the help of an old friend of her mother's, a man she looks at as an older brother, she leaves the hell her life has become and disappears.
She becomes Andra. A complete loner, unable to form attachments or build relationships. It's her protection against her past catching up with her, but also her protection of herself. After all she's been through, she's unable to risk getting hurt anymore. She's holding herself together, but she's still having nightmares several years later and unable to let go of the fear that one day, the monster will find her. If that happens, her life would be over. Would it really be fair to drag someone into her life?
There was a darkness in my soul, abused innocence. My darkness was mine alone to carry; I didn't want to burden anyone else with it.
From page one, I felt the anxiety, unease, and foreboding that comes with walking in Andra's shoes. She goes through a series of events that most people would be defeated from. But she's a survivor and I loved her strength and her lack of wallowing in her circumstances. She's a great match for our hero, Julian. He was sweetly romantic, handsome and persistent, and the type of person that is only challenged by the word no.
There was no doubt I was drawn to him, drawn to the subdued power in his eyes, in his words.
He has an air of mystery about him as well. Something wasn't adding up about him and at some points I just knew there was more there than what was on the surface. She tries pushing him away like all the others that have tried to get close to her, he's not having it. Not in a pushy, alpha way. More in a gentle and tender way. And considering that's not something she's had since she lost her mom, she soaked it up like a sponge and couldn't avoid him for very long.
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He seems to understand her effortlessly and naturally and they have a powerful attraction that only grows by the day. The feelings that grow between them is built haltingly but sweetly. I loved their dates and the extra effort he put into making her feel special. I fell for them: their wit and introspection, their fragile and tender bond, and the passion that was entirely evident in all their interactions.
My mouth was insatiable, desperate. I had never needed physical touch so intensely, so frequently. I didn't know what these impulses were from, or why I acted upon them, but in this moment there was no room in my head for anything but Julian.
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I knew something bad was going to happen and the whole time I was waiting nervously for that moment. The suspense snowballed-I don't think there was anything that was getting me to put down my Kindle at that point.
Yes, the book does end in a cliffy-but we're left in the last moment with some relief that things will be right in her world again. It was definitely manageable. I was completely pulled into this story and these character's lives. This book is so worth the time invested in it-I can't imagine anyone coming away disappointed. I can't wait for the conclusion!
Title: Holding Aces Series:The Kingdom #1 Author: Nikki Groom Release Date: May 29, 2014 Rating:3 stars Cliffh**ARC provided for an honest review**
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Title: Holding Aces Series:The Kingdom #1 Author: Nikki Groom Release Date: May 29, 2014 Rating:3 stars Cliffhanger:Yes HEA: (view spoiler)[No-there's a big cliffy (hide spoiler)]
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Holding Aces is the first book in Nikki Groom's Kingdom series. This is also her debut novel and for her first shot out, I think she did a great job. The writing was there. The story was presented in a way that captured my interest and kept me reading at a steady pace until the end. So why only three stars? My personal preferences. There were a couple things that bothered me but I'll get to that in a bit.
Arianna (Natalie) is a woman trying to escape a life of abuse. First from her fiance who put her in the hospital, and then another man who she married with a false name while on the run. Her husband she's just run from in the middle of the night after he hit her for the first time. Somehow, she subconsciously gravitated toward another abusive situation which really does happen in real life. For whatever reason, she's somehow found another guy that's no good for her and she's decided that's her cue to hit the road. I liked that at the first sign of abuse she made up her mind that she wasn't going to be a victim and took action to get safe. She was beaten but not broken. She was a fighter and a survivor.
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Arianna escapes to Vegas. She wants to reconnect with her old life. The life she lost when she ran from her fiance. She left behind her best friend and her mother who she's had no contact with for years and now she's ready to take back control and see her loved ones again. Her best friend connects her with a place to stay. Her boyfriend's brother's hotel. It's an elegant, high end place with a casino and shops called The Kingdom. And who's king of this castle? Denham King, entrepeneur, and one sexy and powerful guy with a protective side. They bump into each other and right away he starts showing up wherever she is and tempting her to stray from her plan for solitary time to get her life on track again. The absolute last thing she wants is to get involved with man. She's homeless, jobless, and has no clue where to go from here.
In the few encounters we have had, Denham King sends my mind into a spin, but he also makes me feel alive in my soul, and I'm not sure I've ever felt that before. The mix of emotions is not productive to finding the solutions to my current problems.
But Denham is a take charge kind of guy and isn't taking her weak protests at his help at face value. The bruise on her cheek and the emptiness in her eyes makes him want to right everything wrong in her world.
She consistently pushes him away-she's a screwed up mess and he seems like a good guy. She doesn't want to bring her problems on his doorstep but this gorgeous girl's got a hold of him and affects him like no one else. She's worth the risk and he's not going to change his mind.
"I'm not lucky. I'm trouble," I whisper. he gently grips my chin between his thumb and forefinger and tilts my head so I'm looking up at him. "Well, in that case, I like your kind of trouble."
Denham treats her like a princess. A penthouse suite next to his to keep her safe, a spa day and makeover, clothing, a job doing something she loves, bringing her loved ones to see her, he just wants her happy and protected. Not only that, but he stirs a passion in her that she's never felt. He's like a whirlwind whipping through her life and she's feeling stunned and unwillingly pulled into his world. Very quickly, she sees she just can't stay away from him.
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This is where my issues lie. Personally, I thought that after all she's been through, with two different abusive men, she jumped right into another relationship in a matter of days with a guy that she doesn't know a lot about. Yes, he seems perfect but then, so did the other guys at first. How is she so trusting? I needed to see her trust built over more time. It made me feel like she was too reckless and impulsive. In fact, HE was the one trying to make her slow down and not sleep together to make sure she knew what she was doing. This didn't work for me.
Once they did give in to their urges, the natural chemistry made for some enjoyably steamy moments. Denham is a guy that knows what he wants, knows what he likes, and knows how to give her everything she needs. Totally in control and commanding everything she had.
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I needed more build up of their intense feelings and rush into romance, especially because of her history of abusive relationships. Although I did still enjoy much of the book. After the horrible cliffhanger at the end, I suggest waiting for book 2 for those of you who like to avoid them. It was a big one and I was less than happy with that considering there's no information out on the next book. Despite my issues, I will still be reading the conclusion.
♫I'll be the Queen of your heart, Dear You'll be the King of my love I'll deal through that whole deck to find you And You'll wait for my time to come.
I tossed off my cardhouse costumery I slipped on my sweet cotton dress You're king of our house here my darling No turn of a cardhand can wreck. You're king of my big sunny smile now You're king of my red rosy cheeks I'm queen of this cradle that rocks here No joker can steal me away.“♫
I liked this book, and then I didn't as much. I had kind of a hard time rating this. Don't you hate that? The beginning started off with a bang,
[imagI liked this book, and then I didn't as much. I had kind of a hard time rating this. Don't you hate that? The beginning started off with a bang,
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the middle started to lag a tad,
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and the end was like a waiting game for what I knew was going to happen.
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Then I got to about 90% and it wasn't looking like it was going to wrapped in a HEA and I started to get really annoyed.
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This book is not listed as book 1, part of a series....nothing. So this was not a happy sight to see. 98% hit me and I was like....
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Cliffhanger.....NOOOOO.
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I am OVER unexpected cliffhangers, not to mention heroines that can't freaking communicate and cause unnecessary drama, and Heroes that make really brainless decisions. Their relationship was sweet, but they both made too many WTF moments and I really think a lot of it was dragged on too long. I gave it a 3 because the story was decent, it caught me in the beginning, and the sex was hot, but it got a little stagnant and the ending was less than satisfactory.
This book had me utterly captivated and enthralled from start to finish. I am so in love with this story, I can't even put it into words. It's [image]
This book had me utterly captivated and enthralled from start to finish. I am so in love with this story, I can't even put it into words. It's a story of two human spirits, tattered and seemingly broken beyond repair. But through each other they see a mirror into each other's souls. And they are the catalyst for each other's beautiful metamorphosis. Through each other they find peace, comfort, and a spectacular love. This is the story of two people who had been abused, mistreated, and living in their own personal prisons.
Phoenix was sold by his family into a brutal human trafficking ring where he is forced to fight to the death for other's entertainment and profit.
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There was once a time when I did not know the horror of death, when I did not wield it with my bare hands like the grim reaper's assassin. The person I once was is gone. Now I am a prisoner who experiences nothing but what he is forced to do by a devil in plain clothes.
Eve comes from a toxic family who mistreated, neglected, bullied, and abused her physically and emotionally. Her sadistic brother would torment and beat her every chance he got. She grew up with no friends and absolutely no protection from her parents who knowingly allowed her abuse to continue her entire life.
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The one person who truly cared about her was an elderly woman who taught her there are good, genuine people out there, who are not out to hurt you. She taught her to play the piano, gave her unconditional love, and a safe haven from her home life. When she passed away, she left her her fortune and finally a sliver of hope for Eve, so she might live a happier life. She moves far away from her tormenter and builds a new life as a teacher in a small town. But the effects of a lifetime of hurt and humiliation follow her. She has anxiety, panic attacks, and is uncomfortable being around most people. Her brother's abuse has caused her to be shy and she has little self confidence or happiness. She's merely surviving.
Inside, I am nine years old and afraid of the world. Inside, I feel like I am so much bigger than on the outside. The landscape of my pain has so many more places in which to fester than the small circumference of my skin. I want to be separated from my family by more than just miles. I want it to be as though I was never even part of them to begin with.
Phoenix is reclusive, brooding, and pretty intimidating. Eve is timid, shy, and apologetic. There couldn't be two more different people. But underneath that, their pasts link them and they see the common thread of hurt hiding below the surface. They are both immediately attracted to each other, but wary.
He sucks in a deep breath and takes a step towards me. "Do you know, you haven't even told me your name yet," he says, reaching forward and tucking a strand of hair behind my ear. His touch is comfort I didn't even know I needed. All too soon it's gone. I want him to touch me again. My breath quickens. "Eve. My name is Eve." "Are you trying to tempt me, Eve?" "No," I whisper throatily. "I just want to be friends." "I don't do friends."
Eve and Phoenix are going to have to have to navigate through lots of obstacles in order to make a relationship work. Their hurtful pasts, jealous and vindictive townspeople, and Eve's horrible family are just a few of things they have to contend with. But they quickly form a bond that is unbreakable and they become each other's champions.
"You are too good." Pausing, he looks up into the clear sky for a moment. "Too good for the likes of me." "Look at me, Phoenix." He does. "I've known bad people, and you're not one of them. Whatever went on in your past, I know it wasn't your fault. I see you. I can feel your light." "Are you forgiving me for my sins, darling?" "As far as I'm concerned, there's nothing to forgive."
These two create some of the most passionately erotic scenes I have read. Their beautiful connection really jumps off the pages and grabs a hold of you. The piano scene in particular was smoking hot. He asks her to play the piano for him...and oh Lord....DAMN. HOT.
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A minute goes by and I open my eyes. Phoenix has moved from the sofa and is kneeling by me, enraptured by my playing. His eyes are trained on the movement of my fingers. His hand rests softly on my knee. I don't stop. Then I feel his work roughened palm slide up my bare leg from his position below me. Slowly and softly, he pushes my dress up so that it is around my hips. I hesitate and my hands fumble on the keys. I close my eyes again and take a deep breath. "Please, don't stop playing, Eve," comes Phoenix's raspy plea. "No matter what I do, don't stop." I play. He spreads my thighs further apart and crawls beneath the piano so that he is between them.
I absolutely loved this couple. I adored seeing Eve's confidence and strength grow. And I loved seeing his self worth and hope blossom because of Eve.
I am metamorphosing right now, with Phoenix. He is luring me to open up, to let someone in other than Harriet who is gone. His presence in my life is turning me into someone new. I am shedding my old skin for him.
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I couldn't love Phoenix more. He is tormented by a cruel past, and is hardened and rough. But from the beginning, he treats Eve as if she is the most fragile, precious, and beautiful creature. He is one of the most fiercely protective Heroes I've read and I melted at how he is determined to slay any dragon who dares to hurt her. To him, she is "his rose". The rose is what he symbolizes as hope. He even makes her a couple of things that have roses carved into them that was so incredibly sweet.(He's a furniture maker)
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"Sometimes I lie awake at night thinking of how he has hurt you and I feel like I'm going insane. I need to punish him. I need to make him feel what you felt."
"Eve," he growls, his hand moving up my leg and caressing the back of my knee. "You don't need to know. Let me protect you. I NEED to protect you from them. I always thought my years of fighting were meaningless. A simple case of bad luck in a bad world. Now I am coming to believe that I was being made into the man who would defend you. I want to give you the gift of my protection. Take it."
This book was a Wow book. Love, love, LOVED it. The more you sink into the story, the more you will fall in love with these two damaged people and their beautiful story. I little warning though...the ending is wrench your heart. It left me teary eyed with a big, sappy grin on my face. The only downfall I see is there is sure to be a book hangover on my horizon. But that's not an awful problem to have....more
Christie«SHBBblogger»
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