Goodreads Currently Reading

Valerie's bookshelf: currently-reading

Nevermore
tagged: currently-reading
Dark Alpha's Awakening
tagged: currently-reading
The Fox
tagged: currently-reading
The Burglar
tagged: currently-reading

goodreads.com

Wednesday, December 16, 2020

Release Day Blitz: Karolina Dalca, Dark Eyes by M.R. Noble

 


Karolina Dalca, Dark Eyes
by M.R. Noble

Blurb:

Blindsided by an attack that destroys her home and blamed for murder, Karolina Dalca, a half-vampire, escapes, only to plunge into the magical societies from which she was sheltered.

Betrayed by those around her, she abandons her dreams of becoming an investigator and flees, trusting only herself. Her police internship would never prove more useful. Hoofing it through the wilderness, she makes it to her university dorm, disheveled but delightfully deflowered.

Enter a full vampire: one wielding dark magic and a ride out of Canada. A fugitive from the law, Karo complies with his demands to escape, unsure whether his requests are bewitched. She vows to clear her name and avenge her mother's death, but Karo's family secrets aren't so easily left behind.




Available for purchase at 


Excerpt


“Who are you anyway?” I asked.
            “Andre,” he said. “Private Investigator, but I'll do anything for money.” He winked. 
            “You’re not human,” I said. “What are you?” I stretched out my Charmed senses and felt magic within him.
            “I'm a vampire, princess. Same as you, but with a little extra dark superpower. I'm a full vamp though, and from what I can tell from your dismal amount of speed out there, you’re half.” 
            He dragged a chair from the wall and sat across from me.
            “You have the Dark Charm?” I asked. “I should have figured; you ooze sleaze bag.”
            “And you have a little something special up your sleeve too, don't you, princess? I bet you get a little hot now and then, don't you?”
            I narrowed my eyes. 
             “And with a name like Karolina Dalca . . . I bet you've got enough training to back up that look you’re giving me.”
            He knew my name, my powers, and where to find me. My eyes fell over his body, sizing him up as he sat across from me. Strong jaw, tall, six feet and maybe four inches, and muscular broad shoulders. I could take him—if I took him by surprise.





Grab your copy now! 



Join M.R.'s Reader Group! 


About The Author 


M. R. Noble has played a tug of war between science and art her whole life, but the rope broke when she wrote the first line of The Dark Eyes Series. Immersed up to her keyboard in paranormal romance and urban fantasy, she enjoys blending the real with the surreal. The only drawback is she misplaces her mug while dreaming up her next scene, and soon finds herself six cups overpoured.

Keeping to her Lake Simcoe roots, she is a member of the Writers Community of York Region (WCYR), where her muse is made not found . . . over a hefty cup of coffee.

Connect with M.R. at 



Tuesday, December 1, 2020

Release Day Blitz: The Vow by Dannika Dark

 

The highly anticipated story we've all been waiting for is finally here!! 




The Vow
A Black Arrowhead Novel
by Dannika Dark



Available for purchase at 





Blurb:

Melody is an ambitious entrepreneur who has always loved the thrill of a new adventure, but she’s about to get more than she bargained for when the only way to save her business is to secure a deal with a powerful tribal leader. Running Horse, Oklahoma, isn’t on the map, and Mel is about as lost as a Shifter can get. When she unexpectedly runs into her best friend’s brother, her friendly visit quickly turns treacherous.

Lakota Cross is a man with secrets. While tracking a killer, he reunites with Melody, and their friendship sparks into a passionate affair. But if he doesn’t quell the fire soon, it might burn out of control.

Once again, fate brings these two Shifters together in a moment of need. But will the sacrifice be greater than the reward?

Curl up with an exciting new tale of love and magic by Dannika Dark.


Exclusive Excerpt

Want to read an exclusive excerpt? 
Promise, no spoilers! 
Click here to read!




In case you didn't know..... 
"The Vow" follows characters from the "Seven" series. Can it be read as a stand-alone? YES. Absolutely. However, if you want to learn the character's backstory and origins, you'll want to read and/or listen to the Seven Series!



About the Author


Dannika Dark is the USA Today Bestselling Author of Urban Fantasy Romance and Paranormal Romance books. Her books have sold more than 2 million copies worldwide, and she is a 2016 Audie Awards finalist. In addition to writing about supernatural worlds, Dannika is passionate about graphic design and creates all her own covers and series art. When not writing in her cave, she enjoys indie music, reading, Netflix, heaps of chocolate, and unleashing her dark side. 


You can find Dannika at 

To receive exclusive content and be the first to know about upcoming releases, please sign up to her newsletter. 




Stroke of Luck by Opal Carew


ABOUT THE BOOK


The newest erotic romance from bestselling author Opal Carew, Stroke of Luck.

Good things do come in threes.

April Smith’s luxurious Las Vegas wedding crashed and burned when her wealthy fiancé cheated on her and left her with a hotel bill that costs more than she makes in a year. Even more humiliating, her college ex-boyfriend Quinn Taylor has come to her rescue and bailed her out. They didn’t part on the best of terms and never expected to see one another again.

For Quinn, April was the one who got away and despite the heartache she caused him, he’s never gotten over her. Not wanting to be in his debt, April makes Quinn a tempting offer: she’ll spend the next month with him during his Vegas vacation, fulfilling his fantasies. Being with April has always been Quinn’s number one fantasy, and next on the list is sharing a woman with his best friend and business partner, Austin Wright. Since he can see an undeniable attraction between April and Austin, he makes that a condition of their deal, too.

Enjoying the attention and affection from two hot and handsome men, April gives in to her desires to be with both of them. But with those desires comes a growing love that she fears may force her to choose between Quinn and Austin—or lose them both.


REVIEW


April has found herself in a precarious situation. Her fiancee has left her with nothing but a debt that she cannot pay. As chance would have it, a man from her past appears when there seems to be no reasonable hope. The couple makes a deal, and Quinn asks April to rekindle their past romance for the month of his Las Vegas vacation. The catch is that Quinn's business partner Austin will share in their relationship.

Stroke of Luck is a steamy romance fantasy I was granted a copy of from Netgalley and St. Martin's Griffin. April is reticent in the beginning about revealing her attraction to Austin, but soon enjoys the touch of the two attractive men. Quinn embarks on the relationship as a sort of revenge for past slights but realizes what April truly means to him. This story is very passionate and very adult. I suggest only those looking for a highly sensual romance venture here. Stroke of Luck is a quick read. April, Quinn, and Austin fit nicely into their roles and are likable enough. With this story, one gets what one would expect, and that is certainly enough. 

Wednesday, November 18, 2020

Blog Tour & SM Blast: Karolina Dalca, Dark Eyes by M. R. Noble

 



Karolina Dalca, Dark Eyes
by M.R. Noble

Blurb:

Blindsided by an attack that destroys her home and blamed for murder, Karolina Dalca, a half-vampire, escapes, only to plunge into the magical societies from which she was sheltered.

Betrayed by those around her, she abandons her dreams of becoming an investigator and flees, trusting only herself. Her police internship would never prove more useful. Hoofing it through the wilderness, she makes it to her university dorm, disheveled but delightfully deflowered.

Enter a full vampire: one wielding dark magic and a ride out of Canada. A fugitive from the law, Karo complies with his demands to escape, unsure whether his requests are bewitched. She vows to clear her name and avenge her mother's death, but Karo's family secrets aren't so easily left behind.




Release Day: December 16, 2020

Available for pre-order at 

Kindle | Amazon Paperback | Barnes and Noble | iBooks 


Excerpt 


“Who are you anyway?” I asked.

            “Andre,” he said. “Private Investigator, but I'll do anything for money.” He winked.
 
            “You’re not human,” I said. “What are you?” I stretched out my Charmed senses and felt magic within him.

            “I'm a vampire, princess. Same as you, but with a little extra dark superpower. I'm a full vamp though, and from what I can tell from your dismal amount of speed out there, you’re half.” 

            He dragged a chair from the wall and sat across from me.

            “You have the Dark Charm?” I asked. “I should have figured; you ooze sleaze bag.”

            “And you have a little something special up your sleeve too, don't you, princess? I bet you get a little hot now and then, don't you?”

            I narrowed my eyes. 

             “And with a name like Karolina Dalca . . . I bet you've got enough training to back up that look you’re giving me.”

            He knew my name, my powers, and where to find me. My eyes fell over his body, sizing him up as he sat across from me. Strong jaw, tall, six feet and maybe four inches, and muscular broad shoulders. I could take him—if I took him by surprise.



About The Author 


M. R. Noble has played a tug of war between science and art her whole life, but the rope broke when she wrote the first line of The Dark Eyes Series. Immersed up to her keyboard in paranormal romance and urban fantasy, she enjoys blending the real with the surreal. The only drawback is she misplaces her mug while dreaming up her next scene, and soon finds herself six cups overpoured.

Keeping to her Lake Simcoe roots, she is a member of the Writers Community of York Region (WCYR), where her muse is made not found . . . over a hefty cup of coffee.


Available for connect with at 


Giveaway



Tuesday, November 17, 2020

Dark Alpha's Caress by Donna Grant

 


ABOUT THE BOOK


There is no escaping a Reaper. I am an elite assassin, part of a brotherhood that only answers to Death. And when Death says your time is up, I’m coming for you…

Reborn to serve, I have never once questioned Death’s directives. Until my mission leads me to a Halfling who stirs things within me that I’ve never felt before. Sorcha’s past intrigues me, but not as much as the gorgeous and stubborn Halfling herself. Though the Others are no more, our enemies still lurk around every corner. I can feel it. But for her, I will battle whatever comes my way—be it present dangers or ghosts of the past.


REVIEW


Dark Alpha's Caress feels like the beginning of a new arc, which makes sense based on the previous installments.  Due to this fact, any new reader of the series will not find themselves lost.  What loose ends remain from the prior storyline are explained.  

For this reason, Sorcha and Cathal find themselves in a situation not quite as precarious as the rest.  Yes, there is conflict, and it sucks for Sorcha.  At the story's conclusion, I got a bit teary-eyed.  But we see very little of the rest of the group, and I missed them a bit.  No need for the big guns, so to speak, when two can seemingly take care of the problem.  

Sorcha has a uniqueness about her that I find intriguing, Half-Fae and Skye Druid.  Utilizing her power in an epic battle could prove to be a great asset.  Cathal embodies those qualities that all of Death's Reapers do.  Sexy, lethal, loyal, and protective.  The two have sizzling, sexy chemistry.

I am curious to see where the books will go from here.  Where the rising factions will cause trouble, or not, and what challenges lie ahead for the Reapers.

Thursday, November 12, 2020

Book Blast: Secrets Held Within by C.A. Afonso

 

We're super excited to share with our readers C.A. Afonso's Secrets Held Within! This is a murder, mystery, and suspense short story that is sure to thrill! Secrets Held Within is available to read now on Kindle, Nook, and iTunes - grab your copy today!


ABOUT THE BOOK

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is cover_secretsheldwithin.jpg


Title
: Secrets Held Within
Author: C.A. Afonso
Publication Date: October 29th, 2019 by Newman Springs Publishing, Inc.
Genre: Murder, Mystery, and Suspense
Length: Short Story, One-Hour Read, Novelette

Blurb:
Every small town has its share of secrets. Just where Christopher hides his, it’s deep inside.


This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is image_goodreads_addto.png

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | iTunes





ABOUT THE AUTHOR
This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is author_c.a.afonso.png

C A Afonso (1974 - Current) Author of her first Novella (Secrets Held Within) published by Newman Springs Publishing 10/2019. She has been a housewife, parent and caregiver for 24 years and decided to put out her writings for publication to reach more people so they can enjoy her work, in hopes of publishing more of her work if everyone would like to read more of her stories in the future. In addition to her short stories, she also writes poetry and has a children's book she is hoping to publish as well.

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads | Amazon

Friday, November 6, 2020

Looking For A Cowboy by Donna Grant

 

ABOUT THE BOOK


A cowboy finds love in the most unlikely place in New York Times bestseller Donna Grant's newest Heart of Texas novel, Looking for a Cowboy.

A beautiful stranger has come to Clearview, asking questions that are nobody’s business. Cooper Owens also wasn’t born yesterday. He knows that this out-of-towner is hiding a dark secret of her own. Much as he knows he should head in the other direction, he can’t make himself turn away. . .

P.I. Marlee Frampton always wanted to lead a nice quiet life, working as a cop in her local police department. But that dream came to an end when her sister was murdered—and her baby kidnapped. Now Marlee’s come to Texas to investigate the Harpers, who may be linked to shady adoption agencies. Cooper can’t believe that his friends could be involved in anything so sinister...and soon he makes it his mission to help Marlee discover the truth—and keep her safe in his arms.

“Filled with passion, suspense, and strong characters.”—Rendezvous with Romance on My Favorite Cowboy (5 stars)


REVIEW


The male protagonist in a Donna Grant story is always caring and respectful but never overly forceful. They persevere through the strong ties created by family and friends and the love they feel for their heroine. Cooper is no different. He has a right-minded moral compass, and even though Marlee's introduction in his life could have hindered their relationship, he saw the value of her goals, and his burgeoning feelings were too intense to ignore.

Marlee's purpose is a righteous one that steams from a significant personal loss. She is determined and steadfast in her resolve. When she meets Cooper, he helps her realize a more effective way to attain her aspirations, both in her career and personal life. To her relief, Cooper's assistance prompts a resolution she has been searching for for years.

I enjoyed experiencing the story unfold, both due to Cooper and Marlee's relationship and for the desire to see justice served for the crimes they strive to solve. The thought of infant kidnapping, especially on the level here, is unsettling. Rooting for the good guys is effortlessly done.

Cooper and Marlee mesh well. Their relationship never feels forced, and their chemistry is apparent from the start. Cooper's integrity is endearing. Marlee is intelligent and composed, which moves the plot well. If you enjoy a mystery/ suspense with a smart heroine and a noble cowboy, Looking for a Cowboy by Donna Grant is for you.

Wednesday, October 21, 2020

All Scot and Bothered by Kerrigan Byrne

 


ABOUT THE BOOK

All Scot and Bothered is the second book in the stunning Devil You Know series by USA Today bestselling author Kerrigan Byrne!

They are a dangerous duke, a fierce lord, and an infamous earl—dark, bold, brave men who know exactly what they want. And there is only one woman who can bring them to their knees...

He is first and foremost—at everything. A man who’s made his own way through ruthless cunning and sheer force of will. A strong and imposing Scot who can turn on the charm but does not suffer fools. His title: Lord Chief Justice of the High Court. His name: Cassius Gerard Ramsay. His mission: To investigate the goings-on at London's most notorious gaming hell, owned and operated by one of the most intriguing and desirable women he’s ever met.

IN THIS GAME OF LOVE, THE RULES DO NOT APPLY

Cecelia Teague was an orphan facing a rather dire future—until a secret benefactor from her mother’s scandalous past swept into her life. Sent to a prestigious boarding school and later to university, Cecelia believed high society was at her fingertips...Then, from out of nowhere, she became the inheritor of a gambling establishment. Now Cecelia must live two lives: one as a proper lady who finds herself undeniably drawn to Lord Ramsay and the other as a savvy gaming hell owner trying to save her business from the very same man. He has no idea she is both women...and Cecelia would like to keep it that way. But what happens when consuming passion and escalating danger threaten to reveal the truth?

"With the Devil You Know series, Byrne once again delivers the beautifully nuanced characters and seductive storytelling her readers have come to expect."—Booklist


REVIEW

Kerrigan Byrne's All Scot and Bothered (The Devil You Know 2) is a lovely historical romance.  Cecelia Teague, the second book of a trio of friends who call themselves the Red Rogues, finds herself wrapped up in a possible scandal upon the death of her aunt.  To make things worse, she finds herself drawn to Cassius Gerard Ramsy is spearheading the investigation into her new inheritance.

Cecelia and Ramsy are a wonderful couple.  Their insecurities equally get in their way at times, but their friendship and passion for each other help to balance that out.  Any story has a certain amount of conflict for the couple, but it did not get drawn out to the point that I was questioning the characters' intelligence.  

I love Ramsy's sense of duty.  He seems a bit stuffy at first, but it quickly fades away.  Cecelia was a woman with her own mind, which is refreshing, and I honestly appreciated she was voluptuous.  

There was a great mystery also present in All Scot and Bothered, one that I did not fully suss out before the reveal.  I appreciate when there is something else going on in a romance other than an internal struggle with the characters.

I would highly recommend All Scot and Bothered by Kerrigan Byrne for any historical romance fan.  I cannot wait for the next adventure of the Red Rogues.

Tuesday, October 20, 2020

Pyromancist by Charmaine Pauls


ABOUT THE BOOK


A DARK PARANORMAL ROMANCE

Fifty houses have been burned to the ground in a fisherman’s village in France. Who would do such a thing? Why target the quiet little village? The police say it’s arson, but their forensic scientists can’t find the cause. If Clelia isn’t the guilty party, then why did the fires start at the same time as her sleepwalking? Why is she dreaming about Joss, her secret childhood crush who abandoned their village nine years earlier? She doesn’t know why Joss is coming for her in her nightmare. All she knows is that she has to run. As fast as she can.

(Each book in the 7 Forbidden Arts series reads as a standalone, but there’s also a series arc.)


REVIEW

Paranormal romances are what I most enjoy reading so, discovering one of my favorite authors had a series in this genre was good news indeed.  Simply put, I loved Pyromancist by Charmaine Pauls and cannot wait to continue with more from the Forbidden Arts books.

As always, Charmaine Pauls knows how to write a fantastic romance.  Joss has just come back to the small community where he and Clelia grew up.  Clelia always carried a torch for Joss and, their reunion proves to the catalyst that changes their lives forever.

Joss has deep emotional scars from childhood.  As much as his adult life has come together, he cannot shake it.  Attempting to latch onto Clelia and do right by her is his goal, but does not always go as planned. His journey is a complicated and heartfelt one.  I love the hero in Charmaine Pauls books.  They tend to be on the aggressive, possessive side and closed off emotionally, but they always find a way to openly love their heroine by the end of the story.  I think Joss is one of my favorites so far. 

Clelia has to come to terms with the fantasy of Joss from her teen years. Her long time unrequited love is very different from the actuality of their current adult situation.  To top it off, she is dealing with a pending threat to her life and a power she does not understand.  

The chemistry between the couple is off the charts.  They are sexy and passionate, and you cannot help but root for their happy ending.  Pyromancist is well worth a read.

Wednesday, September 23, 2020

Release Day Blitz: Troublemaker by Kayley Loring

 

The highly anticipated TROUBLEMAKER 
is finally available in audio! 

Troublemaker

by Kayley Loring

Narrated by Mackenzie Cartwright and Zachary Webber
with cameo appearance by Jason Clarke and Teddy Hamilton


Book Blurb:

TO: Alex Vega

FROM: Emilia Stiles

SUBJECT: Hello 

Dear Mr. Vega, 

I felt it necessary to follow up on today’s meeting, since we weren’t able to speak candidly in front of your son. 

I was shocked to discover that you are Ryder’s dad. Given that your ex-wife will be out of the country for a while and you are currently his primary caregiver, I’m sure you understand why we need to establish boundaries and etiquette. I think it would be best if we just pretend that we met in person for the first time today. 

Your son is a very bright (flirtatious and talkative) student and since his education is a top priority for both of us, I hope I can count on you to respectfully refrain from grinning at me, using that sexy tone of voice, and undressing me with your annoyingly beautiful brown eyes if we should happen to interact with each other again in the future.

Thanks so much,

Miss Stiles


TO: Emilia Stiles

FROM: Alex Vega

SUBJECT: Re: Well, hello again…

Dear Miss Stiles,

Great to hear from you. My son’s education is indeed a top priority. As such, I respectfully agree to refrain from doing all of the aforementioned things.

However, I can’t promise to stop thinking about that kiss at the bar this summer. I’ve been thinking about it for the past month. It’s interesting how humorless and uptight you are about my son’s totally awesome personality, given that I have personally witnessed just how flirtatious and talkative you yourself can be when mildly intoxicated.

You’re so welcome,

Alex

P.S. I volunteered to be a chaperone for your next field trip. See you then. 

* Narrated by Zachary Webber and Mackenzie Cartwright, with special guest appearances by Jason Clarke and Teddy Hamilton. 
** This audiobook is dual narration, with portions that are duet-style.


Available for purchase at 


Audio only $7.47 via WhisperSync
Part of the Kindle Unlimited program

Before writing steamy romantic comedy novels, Kayley Loring got a BFA in creative writing from a Canadian university and had a fifteen-year career as a screenwriter in Los Angeles (under a different name). She mostly wrote PG-13 family comedies that studios would pay her lots of money for and then never make into movies. In 2017 she decided to move to the Pacific Northwest and write about all the fun stuff that she wasn't allowed to write about in those PG-13 scripts. Now she’s breathing cleaner air and writing dirtier words. It’s an adjustment she’s happily getting used to.


ABOUT THE AUTHOR


Connect with Kayley at 
Goodreads | Amazon Author Page | Kayleyville (reader group) | Pinterest 





Presented By


Tuesday, September 22, 2020

The Annihilation Protocol by Michael Laurence

 


ABOUT THE BOOK

Michael Laurence delivers The Annihilation Protocol, the follow-up to The Extinction Agenda, in a series described as “Jack Reacher falling into a plot written by Dan Brown” (James Rollins, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Crucible).

For centuries, a mysterious syndicate known as the Thirteen has staged a silent coup, infiltrating governments and manipulating the course of world events. It’s more powerful than any nation, deadlier than any army. The time has come for it to emerge from the shadows and claim the entire world as its own. And only FBI Special Agent James Mason and his longtime friends stand in its way.

After narrowly preventing a global pandemic, Mason and his team discover an even deadlier threat has already been set into motion. An unknown adversary has produced enough of a lethal nerve gas to wipe every major city off the face of the world, and their only clue to finding it lies in a cryptic message written in the blood of a man found entombed behind a concrete wall. It isn’t until another victim appears—right in the heart of Central Park—that Mason realizes the murders are personal in nature, and figuring out the connection between them is the key to averting catastrophe.

Eight million lives hang in the balance and their only chance of surviving lies in the hands of Mason, his old friends, and a new partner he’s not entirely sure he can trust. Can his team track down a sinister agent codenamed Scarecrow before toxic gas fills the streets of New York City, or will the true power pulling the strings from behind the scenes—the Thirteen—succeed in enacting its genocidal agenda?

REVIEW

The Annihilation Protocol by Michael Lawrence is one thrilling ride.  You follow Mason and his team as they attempt to thwart the newest threat from the Thirteen.

Overall, I really enjoyed this book.  After Extinction Agenda, I was eager for Mason to deliver the justice that the Thirteen deserved.  If you have not read Extinction Agenda, I would highly suggest it.  Annihilation Protocol can stand alone, but the background found in the first book of the series provides motivation and solidifies relationships.  

The multiple mysteries of Annihilation Protocol keep the reader invested.  I was on the edge of my seat in several instances.  By the conclusion, I was excited by the prospect that I had not figured out the entire story midway.  The author does an excellent job of keeping you guessing.

One thing I will say is there is a ton of moving pieces going on in this story.  A lot of investigating.  A lot of exposition.  It is wonderful that we get all of the information relevant to the goings-on, but boy was it a lot.  I'll be honest I tuned out quite a few times. And you know what?  I still followed along.  Some people will appreciate the abundance of facts, but for me, it was a bit much.  Despite that, I would still recommend The Annihilation Protocol by Michael Laurence.

The Guardian by Donna Grant

ABOUT THE BOOK


Knowledge is power.

They live to protect. They live to fight for honor and justice. They live to love the women who have captured their souls. These are the Sons of Texas, from New York Times bestselling author Donna Grant.

As a double agent, Maks Petrov has been so many people, he doesn’t know who he is anymore. While he prefers to work alone, taking down an organization like the Saints requires some help—even if he loathes asking for it. Just one day in the company of a sexy, fearless, and brilliant information broker makes him realize what he’s been missing in life…and fantasizing about what he could have.

Eden Fontaine thought she knew the evils of the world until she was confronted with knowledge of the Saints and what they’ve done—and still could do. Lucky for her, she has Maks by her side, a trained operative who not only makes her feel safe and cared for but also makes her blood run hot. Eden’s never thought much about settling down, but Maks makes her crave a world without the Saints and the handsome guardian by her side for all eternity.

With the Saints upping their game, Maks and Eden have one shot at assembling the intelligence necessary to take down the evil organization for good. If they can, they may have a chance at the happily ever after they both deserve.


REVIEW

The Guardian by Donna Grant is the first book I have read in the Sons of Texas series. Although I did not have the lead-up information, I never felt lost while reading The Guardian.  It can certainly serve as a standalone novel.  Maks is as spy on the run, who commissions help from Eden to uncover a secret government group who seem to be trying to take over the world.

The Guardian had me hooked right away.  The storyline balances action-based thrills with the downtime of computer research and Maks and Eden getting to know each other.  The scenarios never pause long enough to become stagnant, making it a well-rounded plot.  

The Suspense and romance make The Guardian well worth a read.  Even without the benefit of witnessing their past wrongs, watching the bad guy fall here was extremely satisfying.

Wednesday, September 16, 2020

Diamonds are Forever by Charmaine Pauls



ABOUT THE BOOK


A DARK MAFIA ROMANCE

My love is wasted like gemstones in the dust, walked over by an oblivious shoe. It takes many suffering years and layers of mountains to squeeze carbon into a precious stone. Now that I'm polished and hard like a diamond, he doesn't get to kick me back into the dirt.

Men like him don't love women like me.
They don't love.
Period.

But he made me.
He'll live with me.
Because diamonds are forever.

* Diamonds are Forever is Book 3 of the Diamonds are Forever trilogy and concludes the story. Diamonds in the Dust (Book 1) and Diamonds in the Rough (Book 2) must be read first to follow the story.

REVIEW

In Diamonds are Forever, we find the conclusion of the Diamond Magnat series by Charmaine Pauls. Zoe makes it clear to Maxime she will not continue their relationship as it was at the end of the last book.  Although Max takes a step in the right direction to winning her back, his actions seem to provoke a change in Zoe, perhaps one not for the better.

Zoe and Maxime's journey has been a long and complicated one.  The couple had to decide whether a compromise in expectations is worth making their relationship work.  One gives in, the other stands firm.  It is both refreshing and frustrating, hoping they will conclude that persevering is worth it to stay together.  At one point, I was pretty nervous for Zoe.  When she gave in to cynicism, it briefly felt like it would kill her compassion.  Like a bit of role reversal with Maxime.  

The couple eventually meets in the middle, which I believe is the point.  Despite all the manipulations, Zoe and Maxime deserve to find happiness in each other.  They make each other better, and emotionally even each other out.  Diamonds are Forever is a satisfying ending to their tale.

 

HUGE PROJECT ANNOUNCEMENT by K. Loriane

 


They’ll give their queen everything,
all she has to do is ask.



Their Shadow Queen Series

Tempted By Their Queen (bk 1)
and 
All The Queen’s Men (bk 2)

Blurb:

My entire life has been a lie.

I thought I was a normal girl, a typical college student. Until Finn and Jensen, two of the most handsome men I've ever met change my entire world.

Literally.

On my twenty-first birthday, a single kiss from Finn transports the three of us to the Shadow Court. A realm of the fae. Because I'm not human. Not even a little. Turns out, I'm a faerie. The Shadow Court's long-lost queen, to be exact, and I have to take my crown.

It should be easy, but there are rules and customs I need to follow, powers I have to unlock, and a prince I'm supposed to marry.

Unfortunately, there are also plenty of creatures who don't want me to succeed and will stop at nothing to see me dead.

With my guards, Finn and Jensen at my side, I'm ready for anything. Except for my growing attraction to the men I surround myself with. They say they're tempted by me, but I want them just as much, and I don't think I can resist.

Performed in Duet Narration by

• Stella Hunter • Shane East • Jason Clarke  Teddy Hamilton 
 Jacob Morgan  Kylie Stewart  Wesleigh Siobhan
Coming November 2020


Tempted By Their Queen (bk 1)




All The Queen’s Men (bk 2)



About The Author



Kim Loraine was raised a Navy brat but spent most of her life growing up in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. A proper Washingtonian, she's addicted to coffee, doesn't let a little rain ruin her day, and thinks the sun is a gift from God. When not chasing her three little minions around, Kim spends her time writing, reading, and binge watching Doctor Who.


Author of erotic paranormal and steamy contemporary romance.
Never miss an update! 

You can connect with Kim on

Did you know that Kim also has a podcast?