Heartaches: Bad Boy Vibes Part One by H.R. Irwing

Overall, Anna and Rafe's journey is compelling.  I finished it in nearly one sitting. This book is a good fit for those who enjoy a dark romance. The story-line, however, could have an adverse effect on those sensitive to sexual violence. Both main characters are victims, with the subject matter described in full.

While attending a vocational college, Anna feels like an outsider. She begins dating Matt Preston, and he makes her feel less like an outcast. Six months after their relationship begins, the couple attends a rave with Matt's brother Jason. Dosing Anna with an aphrodisiac date drug, the Preston brothers rape her, take her home, and continue the act with their father.

The assault on Anna comes out of nowhere. The scene begins to play out like an exhibitionist threesome. When it is clear the brothers drugged, and are violating Anna, the sensuality still lingers. I don't mind erotica, I prefer it to the euphemisms in other novels, but the narrative here was uncomfortable. If the author's purpose was to place the reader in the lead's shoes, bravo to the method, it worked well. I understand how making the reader experience both passion, and degradation in the act could help them empathize. I know taboo fantasies exist, but a deed this far from the safe zone isn't anything but distressing.

Anna isolates herself for weeks. Hoping to coax her out of the house, her mother takes Anna to see some old family friends. During the outing, Anna and Rafe reconnect. Her behavior indicates to him she is an abuse survivor. When questioned, Anna shares with him details of her attack. Rafe promises to help her receive legal justice, something he never had after his sexual violation.

Tess, who heads the police investigation, treats Anna like she doesn't deserve support or due process. She doesn't care about Anna, which draws Anna deeper into her anguish. Even though Rafe has no interest in her, Tess acts like a jealous girlfriend. If nothing else, the way Tess treats Anna is unprofessional. When not behaving like Anna is a threat to her romance, Tess belittles her. It is infuriating, and her character's actions are appalling.

Hired on at a military school several hours away, Rafe asks Anna go with him to make a new start. She agrees, eager to put her ordeal behind her. Anna, with Rafe close by, feels safe as she learns to defend herself. From the beginning, it is clear Anna and Rafe have strong feelings for one another. The lust Anna continues to have for the Prestons prevents her from being honest with Rafe.

A few weeks later, Matt and Jason enroll in the military school. Anna rushes to Rafe, explaining her belief that if they are together, she will no longer feel any desire for the Prestons. Anna's thoughts on the matter are reasonable, but perhaps not healthy. Rafe is in no position to give her the mental peace she needs. He can barely keep his own emotions in check. They begin a string of sexual encounters as angry as they are passionate.

Rafe's abuser arrives at the school as well. His superior during his tour in Syria, Eric seems determined to keep Rafe under his thrall. Eric desires Rafe, and he won't give him up peacefully. With Eric's declaration of this to Anna, the book ends.

Written in a third person omniscient point of view, it is insightful seeing inside Anna and Rafe's psyche.  However, at times, their thoughts become jumbled, and it is hard to tell one from the other. I was still able to enjoy the book, despite the occasional confusion. The Heartache novels contain a continuing narrative. I find myself curious to see how the relationship turns out, and anticipate continuing with the series.

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Blade of Darkness by Dianne Duvall

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Blade of Darkness by Dianne Duvall is book 7 of the Immortal Guardians series.  Led by Seth who is the oldest among them, the Guardians defend humanity against those driven violently insane by the same virus that infected the Guardians and gave them their immortality. I ran across these books through the Audible Romance Package on pure luck, and am thankful for it.  I binged all seven books, along with the short stories and prequel Gifted Ones books, in an almost obsessively short amount of time. You could read Blade of Darkness as a standalone, but as always I advocate against it. This series especially there is a deep connection between the characters that enhance the enjoyment if you know them all.

In Blade of Darkness, Immortal Guardian Aidan has recently transferred hoping to ease the loneliness he has faced for the past 3000 years. A stronger threat has emerged and is trying to bring down the Immortal Guardian's, making Aidan a direct target for elimination. Out of the series, Aidan's was one of my favorites.  There was a tense misdirection at play throughout Aidan's story, and visions from Aidan's lover Dana greatly exacerbated it. Aidan is forced to put enormous faith in his Immortal family at a time it seems they have no reason to back him. I appreciate when reading a series, you can't take for granted that in the end, everyone will come away from the conflict unscathed. Ramifications are necessary for me to hold onto my suspension of disbelief. I felt there are real things at stake for the Immortal Guardian group in Blade of Darkness.

This series is a stand out among the urban fantasy, paranormal romance genres. I would not hesitate to recommend Blade of Darkness, and the Immortal Guardians series as a must read.  The urban fantasy elements are a great mix of action, mystery/thriller, and comedy.  From the question surrounding Seth's true origins to the hilarious, snarky attitudes of some of the Guardians and their seconds, those who help the Guardians complete their daily duties, I readily admit it is great fun for me. The paranormal romance aspects of it are a great addition, but not at all what holds the stories together. But when the romance takes a front seat in the narrative, it is well worth experiencing, and insta-love is rare which I appreciate. I have added Dianne Duvall to all of my follow lists and eagerly await the next Immortal Guardian installment. All opinions are mine and may not be identical to others. I urge all readers to come to their own conclusions.

Archangel`s Viper by Nalini Singh

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Archangel's Viper by Nalini Singh is book ten of the Guild Hunter series. These books work as stand-alone novels, but I suggest reading the entire series. Holly's introduction in the first book Angel's Blood starts the conflict that develops her character to the point we see her in Archangel's Viper. However, all pertinent information is summarized when relevant, so it is not necessary to read the entire series to enjoy Archangel's Viper.

Holly and Venom have interacted in several other books in the series, so their connection has unfolded over time. In Archangel's Viper, we get more of a look at Holly's capabilities caused by Uram`s attack in Angel's Blood. Holly is less angry and afraid and is able to live close to a normal life. When Viper returns from his latest mission for Raphael the two begin to realize their feelings go beyond Viper mentoring Holly to her new existence. There was hesitation in them both with seeing the other romantically, but not enough that I felt they were wasting time getting together. It was just enough to amplify the passion between the two. Holly and Viper were beautiful together and had fantastic chemistry.

Some of the Guild Hunter books are better for me than others. Although I thoroughly enjoy the Archangel Raphael, whom Viper is part of his loyal "Seven" warriors, most of the Archangels and their various plays for power in their Cadre doesn't necessarily hold my attention. I prefer those stories where that focus is less prominent. Archangel's Blade, Archangel's Shadows, and now Archangel's Viper are among my top favorites in the series, partly because of that shift.

One thing that appeals most to me in the Guild Hunter series is the strong bond the Seven have with Raphael, each other, and those connected through them. Demitri, Raphael's second and one of the most powerful vampires in Raphael's territory, rules through fear. At the same time, he fiercely protects those he loves. Demitiri does things like embrace Holly gently and kiss the top of her head, or act almost offended when Holly just assumes he would have her executed at the snap of a finger. The Seven would die for one another and Raphael without hesitation. Admiring the type of loyalty and love they feel for each other keeps me invested in their stories.

I eagerly anticipated the next installment in the Guild Hunter series. All opinions herein are my own and may not be identical to others. I urge all readers to come to their own conclusions.

Temptation Trials Part 2 by B Truly

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The Temptation Trials Part 2 by B. Truly continues directly after the events of The Temptation Trials Part 1. Prior knowledge from Part 1 is necessary to feel the story's full impact. Fans of dystopian future, paranormal romance or urban fantasy genre novels could enjoy this series.

In the future, Cali and Stef live in a world devastated by World War III. The new world ruler, Eminence, and his Regime enforcers impose strict rules on the population, including arranged marriage. The age for arranged marriage for Cali and Stef was quickly approaching. They decide to take part in the Temptation Trials to prove the love they share with Cade and Tobias is real, and that Eminence should allow them to stay together. The Trials do not go well for Cali, Cade, Stef, and Tobias.

The couples in the Temptation Trials, as well as those sent by Eminence to tempt the participants, all travel home together. Cali and Stef are unable to share the secrets they learned during the Trials with Cade and Tobias while the Regime is on constant watch. Animosity builds for the characters with the ever-present reminder of unfaithfulness during their Trials. Cali and Stef begin to feel it will be impossible to save their relationships by the time they arrive home. Cali and Stef impart the information they discovered when the group arrives at the Opposition headquarters. The Opp who formed to fight the unfairness of the Regime make plans with Cali, Stef, Cade, and Tobias. Their goal is to make sure Eminence can not cause any more harm with the Temptation Trials.

It was tense anticipating how the group would react to each other, especially with the knowledge the girls had about being drugged on the island. I was hoping they could find a way to communicate their secrets with Cade and Tobias quicker to relieve hostilities. It made sense why they had to guard their information, but it played out too much like a soap opera for me. However, excused or not betrayal is hard to overlook for anyone. Emotions would run high when surrounded by the reminders of another's infidelity. The antagonist created the perfect storm. Frustration distracts the characters so much it prevents them from resolving their problem. It works well. Even as the observer, I felt the impact of it.

The consuming lust during the Trials that is also surfacing with the public is part of a vast problem. I did not expect the spiritual impact this would have on their world, and I enjoyed the shock of it. When things take on a religious undercurrent, I often find it annoying. I typically have no desire to ponder the scripture helping save one's soul. The way religion manifested and blended with the plot here felt natural in an inoffensive way.

I sensed how Stef would end up with one man over the other. The event leading to Stef's resolution lacked necessary emotional impact for me, which it should have caused. I unfortunately just felt it as a plot device, and I resented having that moment taken from me. It could be I just over think the conclusion before it's time. Figuring things out can frustrate me, but I have nothing to blame it on but my analytical mind. This plot point may not affect others as it did me.

Overall Temptation Trials Part 2 wasn't a bad book. I rooted for the characters to find their way back to each other, or at the very least forgive each other. The bad experiences they had fueled their determination to help others and I wanted that for them. The surprises I saw coming balanced with the ones I didn't. I would be willing to give future books set in this world a chance.

Lie to me by Melinda Di Lorenzo

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Audrey Albertson is an investigative reporter for the Between the Sheets magazine. A belittling at her high school reunion causes her to reevaluate her life, starting with her career. She disguises herself to get a job with recently released felon Derek Stone. The untold story of his crime is what she thinks could gain her notoriety. Derek Stone is desperate to escape public scrutiny after his release from jail. He seeks to hire an image consultant to help him change the public's mind in a month. He instructs his assistant to hire the consultant that arrives first and dismiss the rest. The first applicant on site is Audrey. As soon as they meet Audrey and Derek feel drawn to each other.

The chemistry between Audrey and Derek is fantastic. I am endeared by characters who make me laugh out loud and the characters in this book did that repeatedly. It is hilarious as they quip back and forth and their inner monologues are equally amusing. Audrey and Derek are well-developed characters. They have inner strength and hidden turmoil that unites them. For reasons they can't explain they share secrets no one else knows and feel better doing so. Their captivation with each other was credible.

A turning point for the couple took place in Derek's basement studio. Derek wanted to share with Audrey art he was preparing to sell. Derek's sadness showed distinctly in his paintings and these emotions compelled Audrey to confess the lie between them. Derek begged Audrey not to break his heart, sensing her confession would change everything. This section was an emotional contrast to their earlier exchanges. It was one of my favorite parts of the book.

After the lies and half-truths come out they deal with them. I worried with the secrets they kept, a happily ever after would feel forced but here their resolutions matched their personalities. Usually, I prefer paranormal situations be at the center of the stories I read. I find most modern romances just bore me. This story and its characters kept my attention. I would recommend any fan of the romance genre give it a try.

All my opinions are my own and may not match that of others. I urge all readers to come to their own conclusions. I voluntarily received a free copy of this book through Library Thing for my honest review.

Intensity by Sherrilyn Kenyon

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My first impression was not terribly favorable, but I had a certain expectation which I now think logically never would have come to pass.  On my next read through I think I will have a better chance of being a bit more impartial.



Intensity is the official end of the Chronicles of Nick series. Knowledge of CoN is necessary for things to make sense in this book. Intensity is laying the groundwork for the upcoming Shadows of Fire series. I believe this is why I have more questions than answers. I hope the next installment continues to clarify things.

As the story begins, Nick finds himself accused of murder. Nick's family and friends work to prove the charges are false. The murder conflict wraps up a little too quick.

Nick encounters characters who have more information on his ancestry. These meetings take place in a separate realm that one could argue are not based in reality. One of my frustrations with this story derives from this concern.

Nick finds someone has counteracted his attempts to fix his timeline. By the end of the book, Nick believes he has found a way to protect it. For the Dark Hunter storylines to remain unchanged, Nick makes a logical choice. Nick's place in the Dark Hunter series is an important one that cannot be altered. Despite the necessity, the decision is difficult for me to accept. One could argue the experiences in the Chronicles of Nick are now pointless. I will trust in the author's master plan but what good are our lessons if they are forgotten?

The gang discovers crucial information about the Sephiroth swords and the mystery surrounding them could aide in future conflicts. The Dark Hunters series is moving forward as CoN plays out in the past. We have come full circle with Nick's journey. It is time for the CoN characters to come out of hiding to impart wisdom and help with these conflicts.

I don't want to communicate I didn't enjoy this book, I did. Sherrilyn Kenyon's stories contain intricate plots. Subtle clues are everywhere and can span multiple books. I love and hate her for this. I get easily frustrated when I cannot solve a puzzle right away. Nick has been a favorite of mine since the Dark Hunter series. After all he has been through, he deserves his happily ever after.

All my opinions are my own and may not match that of others. I urge all readers to come to their own conclusions.

Deathtrap by Dannika Dark

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Deathtrap is Book 3 of the Crossbreed series. This book is fine as a stand-alone, background information enriches the story but is not necessary. I highly recommend the entire series for anyone who loves urban fantasy and paranormal romance.

Raven belongs to Keystone, a group of investigators for the breed world. The members happen upon a murdered female. During the search for clues, they realize her newborn has gone missing. The higher authority keeps them on the case since it is likely the child will end up on the black market. The crime uncovers and connects to one of the character's pasts. The full connection is deep, emotional and I did not see it coming. I felt the betrayal. I even had a verbal reaction to it. If I had a physical copy, I would have thrown my book. I appreciate when a story grips me so much I forget what is around me.

The bonds between the members continue to grow and their trust in each other builds. I enjoy getting to know everyone better as partners and individuals. I feel their loyalty to each other and do not doubt they would do anything necessary to keep each other safe. Shepard has a heartbreaking backstory. I hope he gets full closure to the wrongs he has suffered. I hope he finds the courage to confide in someone and not carry his burden alone.

The author takes time for romance to blossom for her couples. Their sexual tension is more fierce that way. The chemistry between Christian and Raven is intense. They complement each other perfectly and are realizing they cannot deny the attraction they feel. Christian and Raven have an intimate talk about his bodyguard job. I think this is important for him to come to terms with things in the present. It was also important for me to hear. I never felt right about how that situation ended for Christian. Christian and Raven realize they have an unexpected connection in their pasts. I am so rooting for them to make their relationship work. They both deserve some happiness.

Raven and her father Crush spend a few emotional moments together. Christian gains knowledge of him that could be good for Raven. Raven's relationship with her father is important to her. I don't know if she will be able to walk away and never see him again. I worry how Viktor is going to react to the things going on with Raven. Between the potential romance with Christian and now her father's knowledge he is going to need to be understanding. I sense Viktor is a good man it just makes me nervous.

Raven meets an interesting character she dubs Chaos. The two of them have some great interactions. I suspect Chaos gave Christian and Raven unseen help during the pursuit of the bad guys. It is obvious he will play a part in future books, possibly as an antagonist. I hope he does not lose his charm and I am eager to find out his breed.

Other conflicts for Keystone develop to set up future installments. The world Dannika Dark has created is rich, the characters are unique, and the relationships are meaningful. I have not read a book of hers yet that I did not love.

All my opinions are my own and may not match that of others. I encourage all readers to come to their own conclusions.