Category Archives: Dark

#WOTR22 #Mafia #dark – Almanza Crime Family Duet by Chelsea Camaron – Cartel B!tch and Cartel Queen

Almanza Crime Family Duet

Cartel B!tch – 

There was a fine line between love and hate, we walked it together.

Unforgiving.
Relentless.
I’m to be feared.
When your family is as much a friend as an enemy, there is no one to trust.
I am Javier Almanza.
Cartel kingpin.
No one can touch me.
No one can hurt me …
Except her.

Mari Belle Dominguez.

He was raised as family.
My brother’s best friend, my first kiss, and my first betrayal.
He planned to make me his Cartel Bitch.
The joke was on him; I’d never break nor would I bend.
I would fight until the end for myself.
My will was stronger than his want.
He would soon see.

This is book one in the Almanza Crime Family Duet and a full-length standalone romance. This is a dark, edge of your seat romantic suspense novel featuring an antihero, so there is a level of violence inside that may not be suitable for some readers. This is not meant to be an actual depiction of life inside a Cartel but rather a work of fiction meant to entertain.

Cartel Queen-
Hardened.
Persistent.
I refuse to break at the hands of a man.
My situation makes me his.
He’ll never really have me.
I’ll never let him hurt me.
Until he claims more than my house, my body, and my life.
When Javier Almanza claims my heart, I’m no longer his cartel bitch.
No, I’m the queen.

Goodreads

Amazon – Both Book Link

Review by Twinsie Angie

Cartel B!tch –

I received this book from the author for an honest review.

Sweet Baby Jesus!! Javi, is so bad but also so good. He lives by a moral code or compass in this evil world which is his downfall or is it?

Mari has been tricked by her family and is broken but her love of her enemy is over powering through all the years of the book.

This couple….the book…..this story line. Oh man I seriously don’t know where in the heck to start. I mean the young, sweet, innocent love that Mari and Javi have is soooo pure in an evil world. When he is forced to marry her, will wont disrespect her that way. He wants her to freely choose him like he as done with her in his heart all those years ago. What kinda bad guy does that?? Bad guys take what they want much like her brother and Paco, their associate.

When Mari’s brother is involved in a coup to take over the leadership, she is forced to look at Javi through dirty lenses thanks to her brother. The heart ache I felt for her and Javi because they were both pawns in the drug cartel. Javi is destroyed when his heart is gone, and he hardens because no one will ever have this effect on him every again.

Seeing the years they two are apart and their struggles to handle life was hard but when everything is spilled and the secrets are revealed by her bother to Javi and Mari….OMG I seriously was broken. I hurt for HER. I mean I felt back for Javi but damn Mari is PISSED OFF!! I mean this woman is bad ass and she is going to kick some serious cartel ass. I feel for ANY MAN or WOMAN who TRIES to stop her. I cannot wait for Cartel Queen to drop!!!

Cartel Queen-

I received this book from the author for an honest review.

Holy Crap on a Cracker!! This book!! Mari is some kinda FIERCE woman!! Javi is not supposed to be the man you love and yet….I. LOVED. HIM!! #AntiHeroLover

When book 1 of this duet ended, I was devastated much like Mari was. Her entire reason for being was dead by her horrible brother’s hand no less.

Seeing the fire and passion burning in her eyes and also in Javi’s, I knew this was going to be amazing!!! Granted they need to clear the air on what happened in the past. Javi is so lost as to WHY she left, and Mari Belle is so conflicted as to WHY she believed Javi really cared for her when she was “just a Cartel order”.

These two have traveled some roads to finally be together. Their passion is only fueled by the hatred for Mari’s brother. Dude has no clue what he has unleashed in his sister, but she is not going to be the passive Mari of the past…helllllla no. She is going to rise and be a new and improved Mari.

Javi is so possessed by his love for this woman yet so destroyed by her. The chemistry of their first kiss after all the years apart….HOLY HELL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Don’t get me started on their fist of their things after being part *Wink*

I loved seeing the conflict they both feel over loving the other when so much has happened and so many lies have ruined what could have been. But man, both characters stand out for so many reasons. Mari is just FIERCE. I mean you just don’t mess with a momma bear or her cubs…you just don’t if you want to live. Javi is so hard but gets so squishy for the woman who has owned his heart since he was a teen.

Such an amazing duet and the cross overs by the Hellions and Devil’s Due was perfect for any fan of Chelsea’s books.

USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author Chelsea Camaron is a small town Carolina girl with a big imagination. She is a wife and mom chasing her dreams.

She writes contemporary romance, erotic suspense, and psychological thrillers. She loves to write blue-collar men who have real problems with a fictional twist. From mechanics to bikers to oil riggers to smokejumpers, bar owners, and beyond, she loves a strong hero who works hard and plays harder.

#WOTR22 #Dark – Love in the Dark Series by Chelsea Camaron – Stay and Seeking Solace: Angelina’s Restoration

Stay (Love in the Dark Book 1)
Seeking Solace: Angelina's Restoration (Love in the Dark Book 2)
Stay –
Fair Warning … This isn’t a sappy romance. It’s not sweet. It’s far from anything you would want to imagine. This is a story to leave you feeling dirty.
 
Nothing about us is normal.
Nothing about us is natural.
 
Can love ultimately be defined in such ways, truly? This is our story.
 
He is a hitman. The very one who took my family the night that changed us both forever. Something in my eyes stopped him from killing me. Something in my eyes called out for him to take me.
 
At ten he captured me, at fifteen he consumed me, and at eighteen he owned me.
 
Outsiders think he’s my father … that is so far from the truth.
 
Our twisted desires fuel the darkness that lies deep inside us both. My innocence never existed. He takes me as I am.
Seeking Solace –
The fork in the road in front of me screamed go right …

Giano gave me life.
I gave him death.

The path to peace inside of me was covered in his blood.

Could I ever believe in love again?

Instead of going right, though, I veered left into the depths of a world unknown.

*This is a romantic thriller and is best read after Stay (Love in the Dark 1). Due to triggers and graphic violence, it is not recommended for readers under the age of 18.*

Series order:
Stay
Seeking Solace
Reclaiming Me – coming soon

Stay Review by Angie –

It is dirty, wrong and yet sooo perfect!!!

The ending will gut you so be ready!!

I am pretty sure I shouty caps emailed Chelsea about this book!!! ANNND more then once!!!
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I received this book from the author for an honest opinion.

*wipes the tears* WHHHHHHHHHHHHHY!! I mean WHHHHHHHHHHHHHY did you do this to me Chelsea Babe!!! OMG This is a whole new level of writing for Chelsea. I love her Hellions, Smoker Jumpers and bar guys but Giano is a whole lotta perfect wrong????

This book jumps right outta the gate into wrong wrong wrong territory!!

Fallyn is enduring what she does nightly when all of a sudden a man appears and saves her. The why of it doesn’t become clear until much much much later.
Fallyn is so confused. Why is she here and who this man who is caring for her. When she starts a conversation with the stranger, she is soon told what she is expected to do. She is expected to live. She is expected to thrive and she is expected to not take life for granted. We learn that she can’t be Fallyn but will now be Angelina AKA Angel to our stranger AKA Giano. The two form a strange bond. He is wanting to help her and she is wanting to have a real life. They begin to navigate life when she finds out who Angelina really is. The bond that they share is unique. They become a strange “family” unit. Dad and child but always knowing that is far from the truth.

Fallyn has to learn to navigate life as Angel. She begins to have a life but in high school Giano’s “work” catches up to him and causes some trouble for Angel. This then makes Angel wonder about her REAL family. Where are they? Are the dead? Are they alive?

As time goes on we see some sparks between Giano and Angel. She is growing more and more attached to this savior and he is more and more attached to his Angel…..the then girl now woman who saved him. The two have a very twisted and gritty life but after 8 years together something happen and the relationship is now shifted and forever changed…….

For me BOTH Epilogues helped my heart. I love the need Fallyn has but I understand the emotion that Angel expresses…….I Kinda liked Fallyn a little it more buuut that was my black heart at work there!!

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Seeking Solace Review –

I received this book from the author for an honest review.

I was a HUGE fan of Stay. If you haven’t read it, you need to stop and read that story first. You have to read it in order to understand what is going on in the series.

This book takes placed right after *sniff* Giano’s death. I am still so sad about that yet Chelsea still says it had to happen….sigh…anyway, Angelina is a mess. She is guilt and hurt and sad and lonely and just A MESS!! She misses Giano with everything she is. She has Uncle ZoZo there to help her pick up the pieces but its just not enough.

After his death, she packs up and goes to college to try and move on with her life. She meets and falls in love with Shawn who also has ties to “The Families.” No matter, we see her thriving and mostly learning to love and trust……However, Angelina soon learns that the “PAST” Giano tried to shelter her from is not gone. Her past is going to come back to haunt her and her new love.

I am so excited to see the final installment. Fallyn returns to kick some ass. Angelina is the sweet face to our girl but when Fallyn comes out to play, ya’ll better be ready. She is not happy and she is going to be leaving a trail of blood in her wake!!!

USA Today Bestselling author Chelsea Camaron is a small town Carolina girl with a big imagination. She is a wife and mom chasing her dreams. She writes contemporary romance, erotic suspense, and psychological thrillers. She loves to write blue-collar men who have real problems with a fictional twist. From mechanics to bikers to oil riggers to smokejumpers, bar owners, and beyond, she loves a strong hero who works hard and plays harder.

#NewRelease #ReleaseDay #BDSM #Dark #Kidnapping #PartOfASeries #Sir #Brie – Whispered Promises, Brie’s Submission book 24 by Red Phoenix

Whispered Promises (Brie's Submission Book 24) by [Red Phoenix]

A Powerful Love Story!

With your body and your touch, teach me once more…

As a submissive, Brie knows all about control. The beauty of giving her power to another satisfies her soul. But she has made dangerous enemies, and one of them has come to claim her.

Brie comes to question everything she knows when her power is stripped away and the once strong condor is reduced to a songbird.

But nothing is as fierce as her mate—and he will stop until he finds her!

Brie knows the love of a condor never falters, and the bonds of the Training Center last a lifetime. She will depend on both as she revisits her past teachers to gain clarity and strength.

Ready to face her greatest challenge, Brie must fight hard to reclaim her power and soar once again.

Goodreads

Review by Twinsie Angie

I was given this book by the author for an honest review.

Wow, Ok so this book was a big departure from what we expect with this series.  I admit it started pretty dark and had dark themes through the first few chapters.  I admit I was a bit shocked the series went so dark because one of the things I love about this series is the light-hearted nature and love elements of it.  There are dark elements like when we deal with Lilly and the fighting Faelan and Rytsar had in Russia but this…this was a lot to take in.  So I guess be ready for dark and heavy in the first few chapters.

The rest of the book is dealing with the aftermath of the abuse and horror we witnessed in the beginning chapters.  I loved the way Sir helps Brie but also invites her friends to also help her recover from what happened.  I admit I am really hoping for what is to come with Mary and a possible story line.  I loved seeing Faelan again and healing himself.  Knowing how he and Thane are were plus the past with he and Brie added to the storyline.  Tono and Master Anderson are ALWAYS welcome especially seeing the story line ARC for Master Anderson and Shay.

I am curious what will happen in the next book for sure and to see what Asher has to say at the end of the book.

I received a copy of this book from the author for an honest review.

This was a bit rough for me in the beginning because it was a lot darker than anything I have read of Red’s. I enjoy the loving supporting family style I am used to with this series and the first few chapters was a bit of a shock.  As the story when one I started to enjoy where it was going.

Brie endured a lot in the beginning of the book. Sir and Brie’s friends and family do what they can to support her and help her overcome what happened.  We get to see most of the Doms and see how their skills help Brie.  I do love seeing all the characters and their families. Sir shows so much compassion and understanding throughout this story.  I liked that we got to see a lighter side of Sir when he and Master Anderson get together.  It makes my heart happy to see Faelan and how he is doing.

This story took me on a path I didn’t think I was ready for but to see how Brie was able to endure and overcome everything will everyone’s help was heartwarming.  No matter what horrors occur this family always supports and all end up stronger for it. They all truly join together to help each other out no matter who it is that needs help or what needs to do to help them through their ordeal. I am intrigued to see where the next story takes us.

USA Today Bestselling Author

Red Phoenix is an award-winning romance author who gained popularity with her series, Brie’s Submission.

To join in the Brie experience begin with the 1st Boxed Set (Books 1-3) and start your journey into a sensual world…

✤Red’s Books: RedPhoenixAuthor.com

✤Join my Newsletter: RedPhoenixAuthor.com/newsletter-signup

✤Goodreads Group: goodreads.com/group/show/116428-fans-of-red-phoenix

✤Twitter: twitter.com/redphoenix69

✤Facebook: facebook.com/redphoenix69/

“I believe, based on personal experience, that love conquers all. It is a running theme in all of my writing. ” ~Red

Brie’s Submission Reading Order

* Available in eBook, audio book and paperback

RedPhoenixAuthor.com/reds-books/brie-series/

#NewRelease #Mafia #RH #Dark #contemporary – Blades of Iris by K.A. Knight

Blade of Iris: A Dark Mafia Romance by [K.A Knight]

I was sold to my enemies.

The Volkov’s are the nightmares they warned me of as a child, the ones they spoke of in the dark in hushed tones. Traitors, killers, the boogeymen themselves sent to scare children like me.

Children of their enemies.

A Kelly.

A family that they have been at war with since before I was born, and now?

Now I am to marry into the Bratva Pigs. To become their blushing bride.

My fathers plan, theirs as well. A marriage to create peace. To unite the families and end the bloodshed once and for all. We are a symbol of hope, of the future, of harmony.

I have other ideas.

I’m going to make these Vegas Kings fall.

I’m going to kill the Volkov’s and serve their hearts up on a platter for my father.

They won’t see it coming…

The Blade of Iris will be their end.

Even if it starts the Mafia Wars.

*Blade of Iris is a full-length reverse harem novel in the dark and twisted Mafia Wars world.
*Recommended 18+ due to mature language, adult situations and sensitive content.

Goodreads

Amazon

K.A Knight is a Romance author from a little town in England. She always dreamed up crazy story ideas and characters who love more than one person. After all #whychoose.

She loves her fur babies, coffee and a good book. Katie also has an obsession with monster flicks, and plans to re-watch them all!

#NewRelease #ReleaseDay #RH #Fantasy #Dark – Venom and Stone:Cursed Women book 1 by Erin O’Kane

Venom and Stone: Cursed Women Series, Book One by [Erin O'Kane]

Once upon a time…
Legends of knights in shining armour. The story of the fair maiden who sacrifices herself to save her family. Myths of objects of power so great that they will grant your every wish and desire.
That’s how all good stories start, right?
Not every story has a happy ending.
Who hears the tale of the cursed? Those who are tasked with guarding these objects of power your heroes are so determined to steal from us?


My name is Maya, and I am one of the cursed, trapped for eternity. Love is what cursed me, and love is what will free me, but I’ve learned the hard way—men only want me for what I guard, and I will kill every last one of them before I let them take it from me.

*
Betrayed by her first love, Maya was cursed and is now stuck living as a gorgon, a creature feared and hated across the land. Found by King Marcus, she’s found purpose, working by his side. Until three foreigners arrive and change everything she thought she knew.
Will the curse ever be broken, or will Maya stay a monster forever?

Please note this is an RH fantasy standalone and is aimed at readers 18+ . This story contains dark themes that might upset some readers.

Goodreads

Erin O’Kane is an independent author from the UK. She used to work within healthcare, but now is able to follow her dream as a full time author. Writing is her escape and a dream she never thought possible until she was given a push from her friends and family.

She has an addiction to coffee, Lucozade and baked goods. When not writing she will be found on adventures with her husband, reading a book or watching bad romance movies.

#REVIEW – The Perfect Child by Lucinda Berry

Washington Post and Amazon Charts bestseller.
A page-turning debut of suspense about a young couple desperate to have a child of their own—and the unsettling consequences of getting what they always wanted.
Christopher and Hannah are a happily married surgeon and nurse with picture-perfect lives. All that’s missing is a child. When Janie, an abandoned six-year-old, turns up at their hospital, Christopher forms an instant connection with her, and he convinces Hannah they should take her home as their own.
But Janie is no ordinary child, and her damaged psyche proves to be more than her new parents were expecting. Janie is fiercely devoted to Christopher, but she acts out in increasingly disturbing ways, directing all her rage at Hannah. Unable to bond with Janie, Hannah is drowning under the pressure, and Christopher refuses to see Janie’s true nature.
Hannah knows that Janie is manipulating Christopher and isolating him from her, despite Hannah’s attempts to bring them all together. But as Janie’s behavior threatens to tear Christopher and Hannah apart, the truth behind Janie’s past may be enough to push them all over the edge.



This book was insane!
I kept messaging a friend, losing my mind over this story. I tried predicting things and for the most part, I was wrong.
This book left me enraged at parts. I have to say that I haven’t had an emotional response to a book like this in such a long time, it was nice and definitely needed.
The story follows Hannah and Christopher who foster-to-adopt a little girl. Janie had been neglected and abused to the point you feel sorry for her right? Yeah, keep telling yourself that.
Without giving too much away, I have to say that this is one of the best books I’ve ever read. Yes there were parts that made me mad, I yelled at the characters, had to put the book down at times to collect myself and was ripping my hair out (not literally) trying to figure out what was going to happen next. I couldn’t read fast enough.
This book is one that will stick with me for a while. So much so that it even gave me nightmares, which has only ever happened one other time while reading.
If you have triggers, please please please go into this book with caution. It’s not light and fluffy. It’s not a romance. Things happen and things are mentioned in detail, so please be careful while reading this book.
My only beef is how it ended. But I’ve come to learn that most of Lucinda’s books end in a certain way. I’m still so used to romance books that I find that I’m always looking for an epilogue. So that’s just me and it doesn’t change my love of this book at all.
If you’re looking for an unputdownable read, a book that will have you guessing and unable to turn the pages fast enough, pick up this book.
My mind is still reeling from it.

#ThrowbackReview #Dark – Broken Scars by JM Walker

Broken Scars (A Standalone Novel)

Ruined. Tortured. Broken.
What could have been the perfect childhood, turned into a hell that the devil himself would shy away from. I was forced to deal with an evil that would make the darkest of souls cringe.
Lily Noel was scarred but beautiful. She was perfectly flawed and everything that I needed.
Attraction bordered on obsession.
Passion bordered on ecstasy.
Addiction bordered on insanity.
Nothing could get in the way of our love.
Nothing…


Goodreads


Amazon

I received this book from the author for an honest review.

Well, well, well Lucas.  It took you HOW MANY YEARS to finally tell your story to JM and man….was it a good one!!

JM asked me what my description of Lucas is.  I said he is her most Alpha guy yet….but then thinking on it, he is also the sweetest guy yet.  How is that you ask???  Just meet him and you will understand.

Lucas, sweet baby Jesus your life.  I can’t even understand how you LIVED through everything you lived through and yet you did.  You are the definition of survivor.

Lily…guuuurl I don’t know if I have a girl crush on you or if I want to be your best friend???  I mean you are so damn sassy and feisty and you push Lucas to open up.  You accept that broken man and all the baggage he has.  Sometimes you needed to take a quick breath, understandably so BUT you don’t quit on him.  You give him the unconditional love he has been craving his entire life.

These two, I have been DYING to read their story.  We know they are together because we have met them in many of JM’s books.  I just wanted to know how “Love Conquered All” for you two.

This story is complex, deep, and full of emotion.  Be ready to have a bruised heart and make sure your arms are in good condition because all the hugs you will be giving these two.

There are so many amazing twists and turns as we always expect with JM but this book, I think had so much heart and soul baring between the main characters.  They both are damaged souls who find THEIR person due to a quick jump out of the rain!!

J.M. Walker is an Amazon bestselling author who recently hit USA Today with Wanted: An Outlaw Anthology. She loves all things books, pigs and lip gloss. She is happily married to the man who inspires all of her Heroes and continues to make her weak in the knees every single day.

“Above all, be the HEROINE of your own life…” ~ Nora Ephron

#WOTR21 #BlogTour – Vow to Protect by Monica Corwin and JL Beck

Monica is an attending author.

Vow to Protect

They call me a monster.

Murderous and hateful.

Beautiful but broken.
Nothing can calm the ever raging storm inside of me. As the ruthless leader of the Doubeck family there is a certain standard of brutality I have to uphold.

To be gentle or kind is a weakness I cannot afford.

That is until the day I meet her.

Beautiful, innocent, and so very afraid.

Valentina is a rival family’s daughter, and the little temptress has purposely tangled herself in my dark web.

She seeks me out, needing my help, but the price for what she wants will be steep.

Since my father’s death I’ve needed a wife to solidify my family name and this woman has piqued my interest.

We strike a deal intertwining our futures.

I’ll put a ring on her finger, own her body, keep her safe, and kill them all.

I make a vow to protect her at all costs.

That is until her secrets come to light, and I’m left with the choice of becoming the monster she’s only ever heard rumors about.

**This is a dark forced marriage mafia romance, that ends on a cliffhanger. It contains dub-con/non-con as well as other scenes that may be triggering to some readers.**

Goodreads

Review by Twinsie Angie

I received this book from the author for an honest review.

First up, for all you cliffhanger haters…this is a cliffhanger so suck it up buttercup and read it!

If you didn’t read the prologue, no worries, its in this novel as well.  We meet Adrian and Valentina.  They are attracted to each other, but they are in different mafia families.  Val’s family hates Adrian’s family.  Val is in a bad situation being engaged to a monster who feels that fists are for women and not hugs…catch my drift??  So Val makes Adrian an offer he can’t refuse…. keep Val for life to be is wife and kill her douche fiancée who she is not even close to in love with.

Adrian and Val must deal with a lot since Sal left Val with a few parting bruises and another terrible trauma to deal with.  Adrian is trying to burn the world down to find her ex ALONG WITH her father.

The two slowly learn each other’s tells and bodies *Snickers* while learning to lean on each other.  They are slowly falling in love, but each is worried about what will happen IF the council takes her away.  IF the council nullifies their marriage.  IF Val leaves him once the deal is done. IF he will toss her out and not want her anymore once the deal is done.  They talk but sometimes talk AROUND their fears.

There is a lot of violence, twists, backstabbing and worries to keep this couple on their toes.  We are dying to see Adrian get some revenge for Val.  We are also hoping to see this love blooming between Adrian and Val become more open and then………………BOMB DROP and holy moly was I left with my mouth open at the end.     I mean we see it coming but yeah….its still a hard one to swallow.  I cant wait for more!!!

Monica Corwin is a New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author. She is an outspoken writer attempting to make romance accessible to everyone, no matter their preferences. As a Northern Ohioian, Monica enjoys snow drifts, three seasons of weather, and a dislike of Michigan football. Monica owns more books about King Arthur than should be strictly necessary. Also typewriters…lots and lots of typewriters.

Heyya! Author JL Beck! Do you love my books? Please check out the links below to keep up to date with all things J.L. Beck. If you have any questions please feel free to send an email.

#WOTR21 #Prequal #DarkRomance #free #antihero- At First Sight by Monica Corwin and JL Beck

Monica Corwin is an attending author

At First Sight

It was obsession at first sight.
The moment I saw her I knew I had to make her mine.
Turns out she needed me more than I needed her.

**This is a short prequel to the book Vow To Protect and is not a standalone.**

Goodreads

Review by Twinsie Angie

I received this book from the author for an honest review.

After reading this short story, I am ready to dive right into this novel.  Valentina is engaged to her awful dad’s douchey business partner who believe hands are for hitting.  While she is scared of him and her dad, she leans on her bestie/cousin Rose for help.  While at a business dealing, she sees Aiden.  Both seem to be transfixed by the other when they learn who the other is.  She is told he is the monster to fear, and he drawn to her innocents.

The story flies and gives us a brief introduction to each character.  We soon see at the end how they come to be together.

Heyya! Author JL Beck! Do you love my books? Please check out the links below to keep up to date with all things J.L. Beck. If you have any questions please feel free to send an email.

Monica Corwin is a New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author. She is an outspoken writer attempting to make romance accessible to everyone, no matter their preferences. As a Northern Ohioian, Monica enjoys snow drifts, three seasons of weather, and a dislike of Michigan football. Monica owns more books about King Arthur than should be strictly necessary. Also typewriters…lots and lots of typewriters.

#WOTR21 #Paranormal #witches #zombie #Football #Wolves #Shifters #Mafia #Dark #RH -Twinsie Angie Top reads from January 2021-June 2021 – Second and Short by Michel Prince, Cursed Whisper by AJ Renee, Dirty Crown by Mary Martel, Compromised by HR Savage, and His One True Mate by Miranda Lynn

AJ Renee, Michel Prince, Miranda Lynn and Mary Martel are attending authors.

Wanna meet them?  Wanna buy a copy of these books?  Grab a ticket and come to Peoria, IL on July 17th.  Tickets are available HERE

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Here are my top 5 books from January 1 to June 30th.  They are in no order so here goes!!!

Cursed Whispers by AJ Renee

Cursed Whispers (Broderick Coven Book 3)

Animals were Max Broderick’s life.

He wasn’t only a veterinarian. He spoke with animals, quite literally, on a daily basis.

He rescued a wolf on the verge of dying and was shocked beyond belief when she turned out to be a beautiful werewolf.

Claudia Lupita wanted two things: her daughter and as many miles as possible separating her and the monster who’d been holding them captive for years.

Determined to protect her, Max enlists help from his closest circle.

Can they overcome her past, or had she lived through too much to accept her mate?

Broderick Coven Series:
Cursed Love
Cursed Sight
Cursed Whispers
Cursed Touch
Cursed Luck

My 5 Star Review

I was given this book for an honest review by the author.

I will admit. I was curious about Max and his gift to talk to animals. #DogLover I kinda figured he would be my absolute favorite of the Broderick family and I am right. Now if we are talking about the cast of characters in the series, Peter wins hands down, but Max is my favorite sibling.

Max is the sweetest guy who is still coming to terms with his family lineage and powers. He is troubled when he hears someone or something in the woods at Brandy’s baby shower. When he saves a wolf/woman. He is instantly bonded to her. He wants to do all he can to hep her without freaking her out at the same time. He is also freaked out at his reaction to this damaged woman but can’t not be near her.

Claudia is a warrior…that is the only way to describe what she endured and survived. She appreciated the soft and kind man but also had her walls up due to her belief all men are bad. When she sees him for what he really is, a gentleman, she learns to trust him but also worries about what she is feeling for him.

When Max and the pack vow to help her find her daughter and avenge her abuse, she is over her head with emotions for these people. Claudia slowly learns to heal and love while having the support of the pack and the Broderick family at her side.

I have to say this book is my favorite in the series so far. But man, Peter needs to find some love. I feel bad for the alpha. But I am excited for Carter’s book to be next!!

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Second and Short by Michel Prince

Second and Short: Book 2 of the Love by the Yard Series

Warning: For Mature Adult Audiences 18+. Contains language and actions some may deem offensive. Sexually explicit content. MF.
In book two of Love by the Yard: Offensive linemen are considered the silent protectors of the game. Always expected to be there, but never seen by the fans. Whether by accident or circumstance, Dalton Gresham has been known as the Blood Thirsty Bear of the Gridiron since his rookie year. With fans wearing number seventy-seven with fake blood dripped on it, can this giant in football shake his monster status?
Having hidden away at Lost Lake, Wisconsin, the last thing Willeen Fire needed was publicity. The tall, voluptuous woman has a beauty she hides behind flannel shirts and engine grease while staying off the grid. When Dalton first meets Willeen, the last thing he thought was she was a woman in need of protection. But as he falls for her, the natural instinct to protect is screaming in his ears.
Can Dalton stop being the monster he’s been labeled and become the one who will finally save Willeen from the man hunting her?

My 5 star review 

I received this audio book from the author for an honest review.

The narrator was great in this book. Logan has narrated several books for Michel and I love his ability to change voices. His narration brings you into each story. You get lost in his voice and his reading of the stories.

Dalton was a favorite side character in book 1 so I was happy to see him get a book. Granted I thought he might hook up with Dani’s school friend after the way the two seemed to eye each other. Dalton is a gentle giant who is lost in his “persona” for the Chicago Grizzles. He wants to make a mark, but it seems they want the giant lineman to play a violent man when he is far from violent. When he gets injured, he is sent to cool his heels and recuperate from the injury. He starts off badly right at the start when he “ASSUMES” (we know not to do this right?) that Willie is an old redneck with a dirty flannel. He is stunned stupid when he finds out Willie is the hottie who is getting his cabin ready for his stay. The woman was his perfect size in height and curves.

Willie is enchanted by Dalton and his sweet character but can’t understand why everyone thinks he is an aggressive man. When he finds out his “character” she is surprised and helps him realize being himself is the best way to be. The two start to build a relationship but Willie is so scared of wanting more since she cannot give that. Willie has a past she fears and is frightened to find her.

When the two finally take a step forward, Willie’s past crashes into them. She makes a choice which Dalton is not a fan of but will do anything to get his girl. When you love someone today, tomorrow, forever…you can’t let them go.
Again, I love the fact Michel brings a gritty and vile bad guy to the story. Michel writes great bad guys that you hate and can’t wait to see get their butt kicked!! LOL

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His One True Mate by Miranda Lynn

His One True Mate (The Night Shift Series Book 1)

Billionaire tech genius, Leo Lancaster is accustomed to hiding his truth behind mankind’s materialistic comforts.
But no more. The lion within him is on the prowl for a mate, and his primal instincts refuse to be ignored. Driven by his shifter side, he embarks on a journey across the globe to claim that fated bond.

Thankfully, he doesn’t have to venture far. Sauntering by in heels and a curve-hugging pencil skirt, everything about Katrina calls to him. To Leo’s great regret, she needs a bit of convincing.

Katrina Denmark is on the run from a past determined to destroy her.
By focusing her life on helping others, she battles to overcome the fears that haunt her. Finally, she’s starting to feel safe. In control. Until the lioness side of her begins aching to submit to Leo. Terrified of her own growing desires, Katrina is deliberating over whether to take a chance on Leo when the deranged monster she’s spent years trying to escape catches up to her.

With her life and freedom on the line, will Katrina allow Leo to stand beside with the ferocious love of a mate? Or will her own fears force her to face the looming darkness alone?

My 5 star review

I was given this book for an honest review by the author.

This series is a MUST read for me….a PNR reader at the core. I love the characters and the way Miranda keeps the storyline fresh. Each book I feel she brings something new and some kinda new evil that the pack must overcome. This pack might be spread throughout the globe, but they are family through and through.

Oh Leo. He and his lion have been on my radar for a long time. We have watched him help Casey and her new pack. We know he helped Jerome build his pack but what about Leo?? When will he get his love and find happiness?? Well a certain therapist he secured for Casey’s pack seems to be the one who will give him all he needs and more….love, companionship, sass, and heartache. Yes, I said heartache.

Leo has A LOT to deal with in regard to Katerina AKA Kat. She is a broken woman who helps other broken women but never really looks to heal herself completely. Kat has been through some stuff and now when she thinks she has found a place to belong, along comes Leo making her lioness want MORE while her human side is petrified. Her experiences with alphas and mates have not been good. Casey and Mack are a strange concept given what she has seen growing up.

Kat’s father was a power-hungry alpha who treated the females in his pack terrible. What she endures is horrifying but her ability to escape and mend herself just enough to help others is amazing. However, Leo sets her off kilter and she soon is at war with herself over this alpha male. That hussy lioness in her sees Leo for all he is but her human side is so afraid she pushes.

Their story is full of chemistry and is action packed. When Kat’s past shows up and tries to ruin her future, she is a mess. Leo can’t handle the fact his mate is in fear and will do everything to protect what is his…his love…his future…his mate…HIS LIFE!!!

Friends, this book is seriously a perfect addition to the series. I am so excited at where it looks to be headed and ya’ll DJ is hella delicious!! Just saying. I said it first here!!!!

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Dirty Crown by Mary Martel

Dirty Crown

I always held hope that the day I left the compound would be the day I found freedom.

I was wrong.
My future had never really belonged to me. My father laid claim to it the day I was born, and I had been a stupid, naïve girl to wish for anything different.

As the heir to my father’s immense empire, my crown sits heavily on my head as I navigate my way through dealings with the criminal world while trying to stay alive.

Unfortunately for me, my crown and my hands are forced to get dirty along the way. Thankfully, I’m not expected to do it alone. Roarke, my deadly bodyguard who’s been by my side since I was six, is my shadow and always will be. I also now have Alessio, the cold, tattooed hottie, Roman, who conceals everything with fakeness that comes far too easily for him, and the alluring but sweet brothers, Tito and Enzo.

When bullets start flying, and people begin dying, my five guys not only stand behind me as the queen of their empire, but they also prove they have every right to be there by getting their hands just as dirty as my own.

Dirty Crown is a full-length, standalone reverse harem novel. This book is recommended for readers 18+. It contains sexual situations, swearing, violence, and some dark themes. It also contains MM as well as MFM.

My 5 star review

I was given this book for an honest review by the author.

I am a Mary whore. I will read all she writes because they are dark, gritty, bloody, sexy as fuck, hilarious, and wrong all at the damn same time. I think I need therapy, but her books are all I ever  want in life. The crazier the character, the more I love them. The more broken the male, the more I need to have them in my stash of book boyfriends. This group of men do not disappoint…broke, alpha, arrogant, and sexy as hell men dominate Vallie’s life.

Valentina has had a life of squalor with her bodyguard Roarke to protect her in this compound. Her father is THE Mafia boss, and he loves her so much he treats her terrible. One day she is sprung from her hell to be thrust into a new roll…his puppet with his picked “husbands” for her. Yes, plural husbands. She is not willing to play his puppet, but she goes along with it until she and Roarke can figure it all out. When absolute chaos ensues, she becomes the head of THE FAMILY with her men. Friends, there is a grenade scene that absolutely cracked me up…..I mean I had mad Boss Bitch Vibes all day long for Vallie.

I loved all of her men. Roarke is delicious as her boytoy/bodyguard/lover. Enzo is the sweet one who is just as deadly who enjoys time with Roarke as well as Vallie. Roman with his crazy laughter and boy next door charm who is also scary as hell. Alessio who rules the house and the guards with brute force only we could love. Tito is a bit of mess who needs to figure stuff out but his love for Vallie is never ever to be questioned. But I did wanna nut punch him a time or two. However, If I could also see a Hawk enter this harem, it would be day made but I don’t think the MC President would be willing to share with the guys…darn. I guess just being her bestie will have to do.

This book has so much going on and I loved all the violence and grit, but all the sexy time was just as delicious!!! If you’re a Mary fan this will make your list for sure!!!

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Compromised by H.R. Savage

COMPROMISED: An Adult Post-Apocalyptic Romance (Ruins of Playa Azul Book 2)

We left our home in a blaze of fire…

Gunner and I clung to the hope that we were leading our group to safety. However, in the unfamiliar mountains we find something we weren’t expecting–a hidden group of people…and someone I thought was dead.

Creekside Camp offers the promise of new beginnings for our injured and hungry people, and Gunner and I are thrust into a new normal. The idea of an ordinary life with him hung in front of me like the proverbial carrot.

But secrets threaten to unravel our tentative happiness and we are suddenly confronted with threats from not only the dead–but the living as well.

Will Gunner and I finally get a chance toward happiness? Or will the secrets compromise everything we’ve worked so hard for?

NOTE: COMPROMISED is the second book in the Ruins of Playa Azul duet. You MUST read CAPTURED prior to understand the plot and characters.

My 5 star review

I was given this book for an honest review by the author.

GGGGIIIIIRRRRL and Boys was I excited for this book!! I love Zombies and book 1 blew me right out of the damn water. I have been on pins and needles waiting for this book!!!

Ok look Gunnar….Can I just say I get why Thea was on him as often as possible because DAYUM he is all that and a bag of chips. He is the most deliciously alpha male in this book series. No offense Jason buuuut your small potatoes.
Thea is the bad ass chick you wanna have as your bestie if the world goes to crap. She is the tough as nails person who will hug you and smack you upside the head to get your butt in gear and move.

The book starts up right where book 1 ended. The rag tag team of misfits are trying to get to the mountains after defeating the bad peoples…ok monsters…in book 1. Bad people are way too light of a term for them. They stumble into an unprotected camp and Thea’s past is in her face before she knows it. Talk about crazy and hard. The leader of the new camp is friendly but…uhm…how do I say it…a sexist pig?? *GRUNT* Women do women’s work, and the manly man protect the little women folk. *GRUNT* So yeah if you get the drift on Thea that doesn’t go well with her…LOL LAWD do not get me started on VI!! BAHAHAHA She is a load of crazy and I love her so much.

When Gunnar and Thea are attacked by someone in the camp…yeah tense is a word you can use to describe the next few chapters. Finding out that there is a secret that has been withheld from the camp is also something they have to deal with and decide what to do.

I am going to always hope for more from this series because I love zombies!! But Jason and Vi…Come on…a little novella. I need to know how she wormed her way into his broken heart!!

AJ Renee loves to write steamy romance with a happily ever after. When she isn’t writing or interacting with her readers, you can find her spending time with her family or reading.

She graduated from the University of Central Florida with her Masters of Science in Criminal Justice and a Bachelors of Science in Psychology.

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Michel Prince is an author who graduated with a bachelor degree in History and Political Science. Michel writes young adult and adult paranormal romance as well as contemporary romance.

With characters yelling “It’s my turn damn it!!!” She tries to explain to them that alas, she can only type a hundred and twenty words a minute and they will have wait their turn. She knows eventually they find their way out of her head and to her fingertips and she looks forward to sharing them with you.

When Michel can suppress the voices in her head she can be found at a scouting event or cheering for her son in a variety of sports. She would like to thank her family for always being in her corner and especially her husband for supporting her every dream and never letting her give up.

Michel is a member of RWA Pro and Midwest Fiction Writers. In 2013 she was awarded Elite Status with Rebel Ink Press. She lives in the Twin Cities with her husband, son, and cat.

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Miranda Lynn -Mother to two teenage boys, 2 four legged babies, and wife to a loving army veteran who doesn’t mind the extra voices in her head. Miranda grew up on a dairy farm in Illinois, but calls Portland, TN home now. She is an avid reader, coffee addict, wine lover, crafter, and beginning quilter. Though her true passion is in creating her own worlds, characters, and stories for her readers.

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Mary Martel was born in West Michigan and spent the majority of her life there. She currently resides in North Dakota with her husband, and her two beautiful daughters. She’s an avid reader, and when not writing she can be found with her nose stuck in a book.

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Author H.R. Savage started reading romance at an age that made her father cringe as she tried to hide the cover behind her hands. She technically finished writing her first book in Junior High, where it mysteriously disappeared in a reformatting incident. Due to the encouragement of her English teachers at her small town school in La Verne, California, she never lost her love for the art. Now a woman who swears by the power of coffee, Chinese food, and wine (not necessarily in that order), she decided it was time to create stories from the characters in her head.

When she isn’t writing, outlining, or pinning pictures of hot ‘character inspirations’ on Pinterest™, she is spending time with her three beautiful children and handsome husband.