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Saturday, June 30, 2012

Winter of the Wolf by Cherise Sinclair

Winter of the Wolf (The Wild Hunt Legacy, #2)Winter of the Wolf by Cherise Sinclair
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

After a rough childhood in foster care, Breanne Gallagher thought she was on the right path. She had an apartment she loved and shared with her best friend, her work as a chef was on the fast track, and she finally elt like she belonged. All of this was ripped from her in the course of a night when her friend is slaughtered in front of her and the beast turns his attention to her. Breanne is assualted and left to pick up the pieces, wanting answers about her parent, she travels to Cold Creek hoping to find something about who she truly is.

Warriors Zeb and Shay, have found themselves without a home once again. Reassigned to Cold Creek they both seek out hellhounds that reign terror on shifters once they have found them. As part of their new assignment and cover they manage a fishing lodge and their newest tennant is Breanne. It doesn't take a genius to see how vulnerable the young woman is and for the first time in either of their lives they want her as their mate.

There is so much more to this story, it is complex and layered but so worth the read. I found myself unable to put this one down. Zeb is scarred and for a powerful man, but he is also insecure in a sense about the scars. Shay is magnetic, you feel drawn to his alpha ways and charm. He delicately brings Breanne out of her shell and wants Zeb by his side through out, but Zeb is unsure if it is a risk he is willing to take. Loved it.

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Friday, June 29, 2012

Sweet Deal by Kelly Jamieson

Sweet DealSweet Deal by Kelly Jamieson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

"Jake will step in as Shelby's pretend boyfriend, but one innocent kiss leads to both wanting more..."

Full review on Sensual Reads
http://sensualreads.com/?p=9917

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Home by Karen Wiesner

HomeHome by Karen Wiesner
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

"Della is struggling with her choices in life and trying her hardest not to repeat past mistakes."

Full review on Single Titles
http://singletitles.com/?p=7356

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Thursday, June 28, 2012

Faceless Enemy by Keyonna Davis

Faceless EnemyFaceless Enemy by Keyonna Davis
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Chase Matthews has always stepped up when he is needed, when his parents died he dropped everything and came home to help raise his family. Now his former commanding officer needs a favor, protect his daughter.

Chase wasn't prepared though for the overwhelming sense of protectiveness he feels the second he gets a glimpse at the injured woman before him. He knows one thing though, trust his instinct which is telling him, he just met his forever.

Second book in the series, this was a good sequel you get to pick up where the Matthews family left off. Definitely had some openings for a couple of sequels. A little rushed, but overall a fun read.

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Rode Hard, Put Up Wet by Lorelei James

Rode Hard, Put Up Wet (Rough Riders #2)Rode Hard, Put Up Wet by Lorelei James
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Gemma Jansen needs a manager to run her ranch and only one candidate comes to mind, Cash Big Crow. Cash made his intentions clear from the beginning to Gemma, but she balked, now she needs him and is willing to swallow her hesitation in order to get him to the ranch. Cash is more than willing to work the ranch, but he has conditions and one of them is Gemma in his bed everynight.

With Cash comes his daughter Macie who is forming a close relationship with Carter McKay. Carter is not the normal mold for a McKay but the reputation could hurt him when it comes to Macie, but he plans to break through the barriers and win her heart.

This is two stories rolled into one. Of course with all the Rough Riders series it is another fantastic read. I liked the may/december romance.

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June: Same Title, Different Story

Two books, same title, different stories....


Take Me (Wild Oats, #1)Take Me by Mackenzie McKade
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

When Caitlyn Culver decides to turn the tables on the one man she has always wanted, she leaves him roped up in knots of desire. , literally. Cord Daily is out for revenge and he has the perfect plan, with his cousin Dolan Crane in to they are stalking their prey, in the form of Cait who is more than willing to be captured as long as it is in Cord's arms.

I thought this was a really fun read. A quickie but packed full of excitement.

View all my reviews Take Me (Take Me #1)Take Me by Bella Andre
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

All of her life Lily Ellis has been fighting with herself to find the confidence she knows is hiding within herself. Her main source of doubt is the one man who she wishes she could have Travis Carson, but he rebuffs her every chance he gets and although Lily has spent years wishing she understood his behavior, she still doesn't.

When his twin asks him to show up at a fashion show pretending to be him, Travis reluctantly agrees to fill in. Travis has never understood his twins loyalty to Lily, but figures that seeing a train wreck in the making could be a source of entertainment. Travis is stunned when he sees Lily coming down the runway, she is a sensual goddess who he desperatly wants. As he begins to see Lily in a new light, he has to wonder the real reason he has been cruel to her over the years, could it be that he was afraid of what she would see.

I thought this was a fantastic read, loved the ugly duckling makeover which I am a sucker for. The honesty of Lily's character was beautifully written. There are some truly funny moments as Travis tries to wrap his mind around the Lily he has never known.

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Wednesday, June 27, 2012

Judging A Book By It's Cover (#7)

Judging A Book by It's Cover, is a weekly challenge that will be held every Wednesday, but you can complete at your own pace.

The gist of it I will go to my To Be Read on Goodreads and pick a book solely on it's cover. You can pick from books at home, shelfari, amazon, goodreads, etc.

At one point I read the synopsis so feel confident of the books in my TBR are ones I would enjoy, however for some reason I have not picked it up since adding it.

I will post the cover of the book with my initial thoughts on what I think it will be without rereading the synopsis. Once I have finished the book, I will write the review and compare review to cover. I think this is an interesting type of challenge and could be a lot of fun. Plus it gives me a chance to tackle books that either caught my eye or the cover has turned me off and I have not given a chance.


This week I am choosing:
The Edge of Night (The Protectors, #3)




Initial Thoughts:  Bad boy biker is protecting a girl.  Know it is part of a series, not quite sure why she is in a bikini wearing a cross, maybe a good girl.

Previous results:
Double Jeopardy by Rachel Bo
Comfort Object by Annabel Joseph
Crescendo by Kaitlin Maitland
Hell Yeah, by Carolyn Brown
Dangerous Secrets by Lisa Marie Rice
A Date With The Other Side by Erin McCarthy

If you would like to participate here are the rules:

Post a comment and include your blog link, if you do not have a blog leave a comment with your selection:

Choose your book cover.
Post your initial thoughts on what the book will be.
Review and post your thoughts on how it compared to the cover.

Judging A Book By It's Cover Results (#6)

Judging A Book By It's Cover (#6)



This week I am choose:
Double Jeopardy (Strength in Numbers, #1)

Initial Thoughts: I have not read this author before but I am intrigued by the cover. Possibly a mystery?
Results: Nothing like I thought, more of a fantasy style story about soul mates and each of the three is completely new to the menage journey.



Double Jeopardy by Rachel Bo
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

The moment Joshua Reed and Sutter Campbell walk into Kendall Aaronson's shop, she knows there is something special about them. Sutter and Josh ask her out, but she quickly refuses. Despite this, they pursue her knowing they have found their soul mate. As they begin to explore their newly founded relationship, complications with Sutter's interfering dad rears it's ugly head, threatening to destroy their happiness.

This was interesting, it has a fantasy element to it that underlines the whole story. Kendall is torn because Sutter and Joshua are both younger and she is at a point in her life where she is looking for the white picket fence and bushel of children and she wonders if they are ready for the commitment.

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Immersed in Pleasure by Tiffany Reisz

Immersed in PleasureImmersed in Pleasure by Tiffany Reisz
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Legend has it that the most beautiful women in the world are in Manhattan, they are known as the Manhattan Mermaids, all virgins and all reside at an exclusive club called Fathoms.

Full review on Cata Romance
http://cataromance.com/2012/06/review...

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Review: The Italian's Ruthless Marriae by Kim Lawrence

The Italian's Ruthless Marriage BargainThe Italian's Ruthless Marriage Bargain by Kim Lawrence
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Playboy billionaire Luca Di Rossi is in need of a wife, one with a ready made family would do nicely as a solution to his current problem. Although he had a plan in place for a marriage of convience, he had not expected to stumble upon Jude. Jude who most recently became the guardian of her deceased brothers little children. Luca believes in fate, but he also believes in letting Jude figure out that they were meant to be on her terms. Proposing frequently and inserting himself into are just the little nudges she needs to get her to realize he is the one for her.

I liked the idea of this, the synopsis on the book really is misleading though. There were a few things that made no sense to me though in the story, like Jude an author on parenting and yet she has 0 experience and struggling with her new role as guardian. She seemed clueless and it didn't match with the persona she had in the story. Fun read though to see how it all unfolds.

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Tuesday, June 26, 2012

Theme Day: Waitresses

There are some fantastic stories where waitresses are the main job for the heroine.  Often they are sassy or they can be shy and you want to delve in and figure out their story.  Here are a few favorites:




Love Under Two Kendalls Double Down (Vegas Top Guns, #1)Defying the Odds (Battered Hearts, #1)



A Tall, Dark, CowboyA Tall, Dark, Cowboy by Mackenzie McKade
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The last thing Lacy needs in her life is another Cowboy, but when Wyatt walks into the bar she is working at she finds he is difficult to resist. Lacy is up to her ears in stress, with a daughter in the hospital, bills looming up, and finishing up getting her degree she might just take this cowboy up on his offer to work out the kinks.

Wyatt does not know what is drawing him to the feisty waitress but he knows one thing, he wants her not just for a night though....

Seductive, loved it.

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Monday, June 25, 2012

Shards of Ashley by Karen Wiesner

Shards Of Ashley (Family Heirlooms Series, #5)Shards Of Ashley by Karen Wiesner
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

"Jay Samuels has slowly been trying to breakdown Ashley Savages defenses, one by one. Ashley has kept the walls around her sealed tight for years, but Jay has a way of letting her guard down and now that he has set his mind that she is his future, she is retreating fast"

Full review on Single Titles
http://singletitles.com/?p=7346

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Kade by Delores Fossen

KadeKade by Delores Fossen
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

FBI agent Kade Ryland has been involved in some of the most secretive assignments, posing undercover in a variety of ways. When he is called to the hospital and announced a new father to an abandoned infant, he is flustered and shocked especially when the DNA match comes back positive.

Full review on cataromance
http://cataromance.com/2012/06/review...

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Nauti Nights by Lora Leigh

Nauti Nights Nauti Nights by Lora Leigh
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Crista had been in love with James "Dawg" Mackay since the moment she met him, young and inexperienced she relished in his flirting and teasing until one night she gave in the intense feelings he brought out in her. That one night would have been perfect, except he was drunk and did not remember a thing. Crista left shortly after but eight years later she is back, and she is not as easily swayed by Dawg's seductive ways anymore.

Dawg doesn't know what it is about Crista, but he never forgot her. He wants her and his normal plan for seduction is failing, when he catches her in a dangerous situation he comes up with a plan, devious maybe, but it will get him what he wants, Crista. Now Dawg has to get Crista to see him as more than a player, and his past which is riddled with tales of menage escapades with his cousins is all a thing in the past and Crista is the future. Convincing her of that is an uphill battle, especially since someone is targeting her as a terrorist.

I think this is my favorite thus far from the series. Love Dawg, he is all male and a bit of a jerk but wow, makes your knees bend.

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Monday Musings....Looking for

Looking for stories with tortured heros.  You know the ones, they have something in their past that stops them from taking a chance.  It could be an unhappy childhood or betrayal from another woman.  Whatever the reason, often these make for the most riveting of stories.

Any suggestions?

Sunday, June 24, 2012

Man Law by Adrienne Giordano

Man Law (Private Protectors, #1)Man Law by Adrienne Giordano
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Widower Gina Delgado deserves to have a stable life to raise her three children in. Even years later she has not found someone she connects with, except security consultant Vi Andrews who is best friends with her brother.

Vic has been warned repeatedly to stay away from Gina. His job is dangerous and she needs safe and secure, the problem is whenever they are together they can't keep from touching one another. After one blissful moment on the beach, Gina tells Vic he needs to decide if this is something he wants to pursue. Not able to make a decision, Vic is thrust into Gina's families lives when an enemy has decided to make them his next target.

I gave this a 3.99, I was a little confused by Gina at times because she would put her foot down and than change on a flip. Otherwise quickly paced and intriguing story. I liked Vic, he struggles with job vs love which he is really torn up about, once you understand his background you understand why.

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Thursday, June 21, 2012

Cravings by Brenda Huber

CravingsCravings by Brenda Huber
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

One moment drummer Styx was lying with a woman draped over his body, the next his agreeing to go undercover to catch a Vampyre rogue who seems to carry a personal vendetta againist him. Moving next to Dr. Kate O'Rourke was not part of his vacation plans, but when it looks like the rogue has shifted his attention her way and veered from his patterns, they know she needs to be watched.

Kate has spent her life as a doctor, making no time for any relationships. When she meets Styx there is an instant connection and he feels it too. With no knowledge that he and his roomate were sent to watch her, Styx inserts himself in her life but not just for the reason he planned, Kate is his mate and he will do anything to protect her.

Pretty good story, not as good as the first one but intriguing none the less. I liked Styx, he is an intense character. I hope there are more books coming out with the rest of the band of course Crispin a detective who is in both books.

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Worlds Collide by Karen Wiesner

Worlds Collide (Family Heirlooms Series, #6)Worlds Collide by Karen Wiesner
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

"I thought it was fantastic that there were two cultures readers were immersed in within the story, made for a fascinating plot line."

Full review on Single TItles
http://singletitles.com/?p=7336

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Not Just A Fling

Not Just a FlingNot Just a Fling by Christie Butler
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

"Like a summer excursion, Not Just A Fling is an respite for part of the day."

Full review on Sensual Reads
http://sensualreads.com/?p=9847

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June: Same Title, Different Story

Claimed (Dark Protectors, #2)Claimed by Rebecca Zanetti
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Geneticist Emma Paulsen has been on the run since she unveiled the Krujan's, an evil group who are trying to infect women with a virus to unmate them as well as change their genetic makeups. When she is rescued by the man she has spent years dreaming about, she is torn by her visions that show not a happily ever after if she remains by his side.

Emma's sister is infected and with child, she needs her to help find a cure, with this comes trouble as Dage Kayrs, King of the Realm, is determined to mate her. Without revealing her deepest fear, ultimately Emma will have to decide to follow her heart or try to change fate.

What a powerful read, a fantastic sequel to Fated. Loved Dage, you could feel him losing patience with Emma, she is one determined woman and believes in her heart she is protecting him. I have been waiting for this book for months, well worth the wait.

View all my reviews ClaimedClaimed by K.R. Smith
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Told in the first person, Jessica Tandy is on the vacation from hell with a boyfriend she needs to dump. When a pit stop at bar in the middle of Alaska leaves her stranded, she meets a man who she finds herself comfortable with.

Flint Ravenclaw notices Jessica the moment she enters the room, seeing that the company she keeps have no regard to her distress he quickly stands up to save her. Offering to drive her to her destination a night ensues with unpredictable results, will he get a chance to explain before Jessica runs off?

Overall the story was a very creative idea, but the quickness of the read left quite a bit out that would have made the story stronger. I liked this book but would have liked to connect with the characters more.

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Wednesday, June 20, 2012

Mine by Brenda Huber

MineMine by Brenda Huber
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Alexandra "Alex" Sinclair was at the top of her career as a songwriter when she surprised the world by taking a job as a columnist at a newspaper, never writing another song again. Alex has her own personal reasons for changing her lifestyle, when singer Cole Gunnersson for the band Stolen Innocence request a meeting she quickly turns him down.

Vampyre Cole knows that he needs Alex to keep his band at the top of the charts, but the frustrating human is putting up a hell of a fight. When she reluctantly agrees to spend three weeks with the band, but the second he meets her he begins to fumble making not only an ass of himself but even turning Alex more skittish about the idea. Cole sets out to charm her and keep it professional, per her request, but the second he realizes she is his mate he plans full out seduction. When Alex becomes the target of a serial killer who Cole has been tracking, it is even more imperative to keep her close, now he just have to get the stubborn woman to agree.

Succulent read. From the first page you are seduced into a fantasy world that you don't want to see end. Cole is at a loss with Alex and although Alex feels strongly for Cole, she has been burned one to many times to allow it to happen again. How can you go wrong with a rock star and vampire all in one?

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Judging A Book By It's C0ver (#6)

Judging A Book by It's Cover, is a weekly challenge that will be held every Wednesday, but you can complete at your own pace.

The gist of it I will go to my To Be Read on Goodreads and pick a book solely on it's cover. You can pick from books at home, shelfari, amazon, goodreads, etc.

At one point I read the synopsis so feel confident of the books in my TBR are ones I would enjoy, however for some reason I have not picked it up since adding it.

I will post the cover of the book with my initial thoughts on what I think it will be without rereading the synopsis. Once I have finished the book, I will write the review and compare review to cover. I think this is an interesting type of challenge and could be a lot of fun. Plus it gives me a chance to tackle books that either caught my eye or the cover has turned me off and I have not given a chance.


This week I am choosing:
Double Jeopardy (Strength in Numbers, #1)

Initial Thoughts: I have not read this author before but I am intrigued by the cover. Possibly a mystery?

Previous results:
Comfort Object by Annabel Joseph
Crescendo by Kaitlin Maitland
Hell Yeah, by Carolyn Brown
Dangerous Secrets by Lisa Marie Rice
A Date With The Other Side by Erin McCarthy

If you would like to participate here are the rules:

Post a comment and  include your blog link, if you do not have a blog leave a comment with your selection:

Choose your book cover.
Post your initial thoughts on what the book will be.
Review and post your thoughts on how it compared to the cover.

Tuesday, June 19, 2012

Judging A Book By It's Cover Results (#5)

Comfort Object (Comfort Series, #1)

Initial Thoughts: I am not sure if she is injured, in labor, or dead. Doesn't look like she is resting but could be a sign of comfort...hence the title. Have no clue..

Results: Far different from what I thought.  This was a heavy D/S story about an actor and a a professional sub.

Comfort Object by Annabel Joseph
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Professional submissive, Nell finds herself out of work when an impulsive moment violates her contract with the fetish club she works at. Finding out that moment was a round-a-bout audition for actor Jeremy Gray has Nell feeling shame and anger.

Jeremy wants Nell as his personal assistant, although her assistance is more needed as his sex slave he is intrigued by the woman who is refusing the job offer. After much interference on his part, Nell agrees and although his every needs are met, he finds himself torn up in what is forming to be a new type of relationship.


Although there were that made me uncomfortable to read, I was intrigued by the story and how it would turn out. There is really not much likable about Jeremy, he is a jerk through and through but every so often you see a speck of vulnerability that makes you kind of reassess your thoughts about him. Not sure if I liked this or not, I have mixed feelings on this one.

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Deception by Jenny Penn

DeceptionDeception by Jenny Penn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Tessa Miller has been a thorn in the sides of Ty Banning and Chase Dunn who have been fighting with her through a lawyer for a year. deciding it is time to take matters into their own hands they show up on her doorstep. Tessa is thrilled by the choices she has before her, Ty and Chase would do really well for what she needs them for but who to choose?

A case of mistaken identities and a flair for living life moment to moment lead the path to a hilarious story. One of my favorite Jenny Penn books, I forgot I had read this one before but it was just as good the second time around. Love this book.

***
Reread, such a fun book. Has one of the best openers which will have you cracking up/

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Theme Day: Emotional Reads

Yesterday I was tearing through At Peace by Kristen Ashley and thought this should be the theme this week, emotional stories.  You know the ones, they burrow it's way into your heart and you are swept away by a character or plot line completely absorbed and cheering that it will all be all right.  A few of my favorites.  What's yours?

The Ugly DucklingAcheron (Dark-Hunter, #15)At Peace (The 'Burg, #2)


Wild Card (Elite Ops, #1)Wild Card by Lora Leigh
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

When Navy SEAL Nathan Malone left for his latest mission, he did not realize it would be the last time he saw his wife. Brutally tortured and left with only the shell of the man everyone knew, Nathan has kept away fearing his wife, Sabella, would never be able to accept the person he has become. When he is sent back to the place he left on a new mission as Noah Blake, he is not sure what to make of the hot blooded woman with a unyielding temper his wife has become.

Six years later Sabella is struggling to keep the shop her husband had built afloat, when a biker comes to town and her brother-in-law promises him a job. Something is off with Noah Blake, Sabella has not once felt passion for anyone since her husband, not to mention that he comes into her shop barking orders as if he owns it, she wants him gone. She has one hell of a fight on her hands as Noah plans to capture her heart and soul with or without a fight.

Wild Card=Wild Ride. I loved this book, just loved it. I cried, laughed, stressed myself out trying to figure out what was happening. Gritty, sexy, and a whole lot of fun.

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At Peace by Kristen Ashley

At Peace (The 'Burg, #2)At Peace by Kristen Ashley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Violet Winters had it all, a wonderful marriage and two beautiful daughters until a dangerous man ripped her world apart. Now a widow and the madman more determined to claim her, Violet has left Chicago to start a new life.

In one unusual moment, Joe Callahan finds his interest peaked but at the same time a hint of something he long ago banished, a chance at happiness with another woman. Meeting his furious neighbor in the dead of night was unexpected enough but to find the sudden urge to get her to bed is swift.

Without knowing her history, Joe treats Violet as he does every woman beds but when he feels the pull to take it further he balks. Violet had no intentions of getting involved with her neighbor from hell, but her body sings in his company and is willing to take a chance until he hurts her deeply. Joe can't stay away though and when he finally makes a decision about her and her girls, all hell breaks loose when the man who she ran from finds her.

I have to say that Kristen Ashley books should come with a warning. Ashley Addiction: Tissue a must, Clear calendar for the day (possibly week) once you start the book you will be worthless, and when the story ends you are ready to curl up and reread again. I have to say this maybe my favorite book overall. I was spellbound, sobbing, and seduced by this story.

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Monday, June 18, 2012

Monday Musings...looking for

Books with the best openers...you know the ones, the stories that have that hook within the first few pages.  They pull you in and keep you mesmerized until the very end.  They can be dramatic, hilarious, or completely different from anything you have read before. 

Any suggestions?

Raven's Ranch by Dani April

Raven's RanchRaven's Ranch by Dani April
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

"Raven is determined to save the ranch, even though it is going to be an uphill battle the whole way."

Full review on Sensual Reads
http://sensualreads.com/?p=8021

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Sunday, June 17, 2012

Sing To Me, Cowboy by Lauri Robinson

Sing To  Me, CowboySing To Me, Cowboy by Lauri Robinson
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

When her car putters out and her cell phone fails, Heather finds herself walking into the Lonesome Steer Honky Tonk to use the phone. Country singer Lance Dugan is back for his grandfather’s birthday and seeing his high school crush, Heather, is a pleasant surprise.

Full review on Sensual Reads
http://singletitles.com/

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Nauti Boy by Lora Leigh

Nauti Boy Nauti Boy by Lora Leigh
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Rowdy Mackay knew when he finished his time in the service he would finally claim Kelly Benton as his own. Although Kelly tried to seduce him repeatedly over the years, he knew she was too young but each time he came home it was getting harder to resist.

Rowdy is home now and he is ready to lay his claim, but Kelly is not the same girl she was when he left. A brutal attack has made her fearful, even from him. Rowdy vows to protect her and help her heal but there is one aspect of their relationship that Kelly does not feel she can give herself over to, with Rowdy comes his two cousins who delight in the pleasure they can give a women. Rowdy has some tough choices ahead and a serial rapist who seems incensed that Rowdy has now come home.

Reread because I had no review on this one, I had forgotten the plot so it was like a new story to me. Overall an exciting read, Rowdy definitly is struggling with what he wants and what he feels he should do where Kelly is concerned, the answer may surprise you.

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Saturday, June 16, 2012

Gateway to Heaven by Beth Kery

Gateway to HeavenGateway to Heaven by Beth Kery
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Rock Star Christian Lasher spends a month every year returning home seeking solace and relaxation. This year is no different but much needed, then he meets Megan Shreve who is the exact opposite of him but exudes a sense of calm that he has never felt before. Wanting to be a part of her tranquility he pursues the tender Megan, what he doesn't know that inside her is a rippling tide of mixed emotions and a past that has kept her from ever experiencing any intimacy.

Megan doesn't remember what happened to her, but she has spent a life of everyone walking on eggshells around her waiting for her to break. Until Christian walked into her life, she hadn't quite realized that she could have something more. Outside influences though are straining the fragile string between them and it will take courage on both of their parts to make it work.

I thought this was hauntingly beautiful. Christian often blows up without many words, he watches and spends most time in his own head waiting like a tiger on the prowl but Megan has him befuddled and tied in knots. Megan is drawn to Christian because he makes her feel alive, but communicating that to him is difficult and often she draws at other issues to hide what she is really feeling. I thought this was a raw read but so worth it. Like frosting and cake these two belong together, without one you are left missing something.

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Friday, June 15, 2012

All Jacked Up by Lorelei James

All Jacked Up  (Rough Riders #8)All Jacked Up by Lorelei James
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Wanting a chance to develop her dream without her interfering family, Keely McKay seeks out the help of an out of town company. What Keely doesn't realize is that Jack Donohue, a man she hates with every fiber of her body.

Jack has lusted after Keely since he met her, but she is opposite of the women he dates. Keely needs his help and he has an offer that is going to be difficult to refuse, a pretend engagement in trade for the work she needs done. Now they have to convince friends and family the engagement is real and try not to act on their feelings for one another along the way.

I reread this one because I had never written a review, this was probably my least favorite in the series. Keely is just so brash than I never warmed up to her.

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Divine Phoenix by Heather Rainier

Divine Phoenix (Divine Creek Ranch #10)Divine Phoenix by Heather Rainier
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Lily Valentine lived a nightmare marriage for twelve long years, a final betrayal by her husband was the last straw. Lily heads back to the only place she experienced true happiness when she was a kid, Divine. Hoping to be a positive start to her future is short lived as she crashes into artist Clay Cooks store.

Clay cannot believe the woman who crashed into his store is his childhood playmate Lily. Uncertain what to do he steps in as a friend offering his help, when her past unfolds he is by her side through out. Clay has been alone a long time, but the time with Lily has him wondering if it was all worth it now that she is back in his life.

When Del Cook returns home he is surprised to hear Lily is back. Seeing Clay with Lily he knows he is witnessing them falling in love, but he wants to be part of that for his feelings for Lily run deep. Del has been gone years and has not seen the changes in Divine, but Clay is more than willing to share Lily if she is willing to take a chance on them both.

I loved this story, one of those that grabs a hold and doesn't let go. Everything about it was passionate and well paced, in my top four favorites from this series, not sure where it lands exactly but would reread again.

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The Tap Room by Liz Crowe

The Tap RoomThe Tap Room by Liz Crowe
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

"I liked that this took place in the beer brewing business, had a fantastic angle for a woman who is trying to reclaim her life."

Full review on Sensual Reads
http://sensualreads.com/?p=8006

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The Heat by eather Killough-Walden

The Heat (The Big Bad Wolf, #1)The Heat by Heather Killough-Walden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Coming home to Louisiana, Lily St. Claire expected to spend time with her best friend and reconnect with others from her past, she was not prepared to see former crush Officer Daniel Kane so soon though. Daniel is everything she had ever dreamed of in a man, but he had never shown any interest as well as a reputation as the town playboy kept her crush at bay.

Daniel promised his sister once he would stay away from Lily, but now that she is back he wants to claim his mate. He has to figure out away to claim her without freaking her out, but that time never comes when an enemy has set his sight on her as well and someone in town is on a murdering spree which Daniel needs to figure out before another victim shows up.

Loved it, loved it, loved it. Daniel is major alpha and although he is protecting Lily, crosses the line with her in a very bossy alpha way, which completely shatters Lily crush fantasy and she has had enough. Let the fireworks begin!

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Thursday, June 14, 2012

One Man Advantage by Kelly Jamieson

One Man AdvantageOne Man Advantage by Kelly Jamieson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Nicole is through with hockey players, especially players for the Minneapolis Caribou team. After a bitter ex makes an inflammatory statement about her sexual prowess she is mortified and wondering if she still has a job working with the Caribou’s

Full review on Sensual Read
http://sensualreads.com/?p=9803

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Tiger Mine by Angela Castle

Tiger MineTiger Mine by Angela Castle
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Julia is in desperate need of a new start, heading to her grandfathers house in the Australian Mountains seems like the ideal choice for a fresh beginning. What she finds is a house in need of repair, a Siberian tiger who thinks he is her pet, and a man looking for work who she believes would never be interested in her.

Mohan escaped barely with his life from hunters who had no qualms killing fellow shifters for the game of the hunt. Being in Julia's company is probably not the smartest thing he should do, but a growing attachment to the giving woman has him wanting more than friendship with her. With his past still haunting him, he has to confess all to Julia and hope that she can accept him for who he is.

Enchanting story, there were elements that were unique to shifter stories. There is a clan element that you could easily imagine being true as Mohan describes his past.

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June: Same Titles, Different Story

Two vastly different stories but they both share a common theme,  a menage' love story. 


Crescendo
Crescendo by Leah Brooke
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Interior decorator Julianna Lovette has spent her life trying to prove herself, just shy of six foot she is a force to be reckoned with in the work force, but in her personal life she is vulnerable and unsatisfied. When Hotel magnets Nick Morietti and Steve Vanguard meet her under unusual circumstances, they both are instantly taken with the passionate woman who is determined to fight her own battles.

Nick and Steve have never shared a woman before, but Julianna makes them rethink everything. Hiring her to design their hotels, both are able to get close to her and fall deeper for the woman who is turning their lives upside down. When Julianna is put in danger all hell is about to break loose and all of them will question the trust of one another.

This is a perfect example of don't judge a book by it's cover. I love Leah Brooke, one of my favorite authors but something about the caveman stance on the cover just had me pushing this book to the side. The story was breathtaking and riveting, I loved the beginning chapter and was sucked in throughout the story. One of the best things I enjoyed about the book is that the menage was new and an exploration for the most part while testing barriers. Fantastic read.

Crescendo (Boston Avant-Garde 2)Crescendo by Kaitlin Maitland
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Three months ago Leslie left Seth for no apparent reason, just left. She is now standing before him needing his help in a legal matter. Seth has not been able to move past Leslie leaving him and wants answers but first he plans to get her back in his and his best friend Joshua's life.

Joshua does not trust Leslie and does not want his friend hurt again. What neither man realizes is that as messed up their own pasts are, Leslie has shadowed secrets as well.


Overall this was an interesting concept. It has a few issues that take away from the story. Joshua is hard to like, a bit of a player but eventually he comes around. There is a side story with another lawyer which I just had a hard time wrapping around. Had potential but got mucked up by a lot of extra plots.

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Wednesday, June 13, 2012

How Sweet It Is by Sophie Gunn

How Sweet It isHow Sweet It is by Sophie Gunn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

"A wonderful story that takes self reliant Lizzie and throws her into the path of charitable Tay"

Full review on Single Titles
http://singletitles.com/?p=5291

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Heartstrings and Diamond Rings by Jane Graves

Heartstrings and Diamond RingsHeartstrings and Diamond Rings by Jane Graves
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

"Hilarious story, some of Alison's dates are like car wrecks waiting to happen."

Full reviews on Single Titles
http://singletitles.com/?p=6482

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Judging A Book By It's Cover (#5)

Judging A Book by It's Cover, is a weekly challenge that will be held every Wednesday, but you can complete at your own pace.

The gist of it I will go to my To Be Read on Goodreads and pick a book solely on it's cover. You can pick from books at home, shelfari, amazon, goodreads, etc.

At one point I read the synopsis so feel confident of the books in my TBR are ones I would enjoy, however for some reason I have not picked it up since adding it.

I will post the cover of the book with my initial thoughts on what I think it will be without rereading the synopsis. Once I have finished the book, I will write the review and compare review to cover. I think this is an interesting type of challenge and could be a lot of fun. Plus it gives me a chance to tackle books that either caught my eye or the cover has turned me off and I have not given a chance.

This week I am choosing:

Comfort Object (Comfort Series, #1)


Initial Thoughts:   I am not sure if she is injured, in labor, or dead.  Doesn't look like she is resting but could be a sign of comfort...hence the title.  Have no clue..

Previous results:
Crescendo by Kaitlin Maitland
Hell Yeah, by Carolyn Brown
Dangerous Secrets by Lisa Marie Rice
A Date With The Other Side by Erin McCarthy

If you would like to participate here are the rules:

Fill out the Linky tool to include your blog, if you do not have a blog leave a comment with your selection:

Choose your book cover.
Post your initial thoughts on what the book will be.
Review and post your thoughts on how it compared to the cover.