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.

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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. 

Forbidden Desire by Robin Lovett

 

ABOUT THE BOOK

Being a sex goddess should be my dream come true—as much sex as I want, with magic powers to heal people, too. Until I realize the enormously strong human I desire most is completely off-limits. My people will put me in prison if I’m caught with a human.

But one encounter together leaves me panting for more. So I whisk him away to an alien sex retreat. I soon discover not only is my big strong human a virgin, his bio-engineering might have made him the largest person I’ve ever seen, but also it made him unable to feel any sensation on his skin.

We’ve got three days to try to heal him with my sex powers before I risk someone discovering us. Then I find out his biggest secret…

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REVIEW

Graven finds himself on the run, a fugitive human on a foreign planet. Niva is the sex goddess healer that he finds himself unable to stop obsessing over.  When Niva eventually regards him, she discovers he needs her more than anyone she has ever encountered. 

Forbidden Desire by Robin Lovett is what you would expect based on the plot summary.  So ask yourself what do you want from this story.  Some sexy time, under the guise of a healer and her patient? Yes? Okay.  But it doesn't get a lot deeper than that.  Niva and Graven experience a pretty superficial relationship, but it is very steamy. 

That being said, there are elements of Forbidden Desire that advance it beyond mind-numbing erotica.  The author makes an effort to weave a story into Niva's healing sessions, and I did find it intriguing.  Graven's torturous past, Niva's fear of her council's reaction to a forbidden human it was all enough to keep me engaged in their stories. 

Forbidden Desire by Robin Lovett is one of the better erotica's I have run across.  I finished it, which for me and this type of book means a lot, but some of it I only skimmed.  Take that as you will.

The Dilemma by B.A. Paris

ABOUT THE BOOK

A woman's birthday party takes a dark turn in a poignant, heart-stopping new novel from the reigning queen of suspense, NYT and USA Today bestselling author of Behind Closed Doors, The Breakdown, and Bring Me Back.

“A heartbreaking page-turner that will have you up at night reading just one more chapter.” —Catherine Steadman, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Something in the Water

“The phenomenal B. A. Paris has done it again! I devoured The Dilemma in one sitting—it grabbed me from the very first page and wouldn’t let go until I’d finished. Secrets, guilt, shame and heartbreak—this story has it all in spades.”—Sandie Jones, New York Times bestselling author of The Other Woman

Knowing the truth will destroy her. Keeping it secret will destroy him.

It’s Livia’s 40th birthday, and her husband Adam is throwing her the party of a lifetime to make up for the wedding they never had. Everyone she loves will be there, except her daughter Marnie, who’s studying abroad. But Livia is secretly glad Marnie won’t be there.

Livia has recently uncovered a secret about their daughter which, if revealed, will shake the foundation of their family to its core. She needs to tell Adam, but she’s waiting until the party is over so they can have this last happy time together.

Adam, meanwhile, has his own surprise for Livia: he’s arranged for Marnie to secretly fly back for the party. But before Marnie arrives, Adam hears some terrible news. Now he too is faced with a dilemma: Does he share what he's learned with his wife? Is hiding the truth the same as telling a lie? And how far are Adam and Livia willing to go to protect the ones they love—and give each other a last few hours of happiness?

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REVIEW

What I liked: Livia and Adam are very relatable. The couple has had their ups and downs that stems from their marriage and children at an early age. The two were genuine when addressing various regrets and the love they have for their family. I empathized with them while hoping for the best. Additionally, when one of the mysteries began to surface, my prediction was way off. I like it when I am mistaken, it means the author is thinking much harder than I am. Which I greatly respect.

What I didn't like: I know how it ends, but I didn't experience the continuous journey. Consequently, accept my opinion as you will. In the last half of the book, I only skimmed. It didn't have anything to do with not enjoying the book exactly, but I could not handle the pending loss. In essence, the suspense was too much for me, at least that type of suspense. 

Livia and Adam experience a gripping journey. Just know that experience is very bittersweet.

The Demon's Possession Shadow Quest Book 1 by Kiersten Fay

ABOUT THE BOOK

April 2020 edition. Re-edited, this second edition contains an extended ending.

A devilishly passionate tale of a fierce demon captain and the mysterious young princess he vows to protect. Their passion will ignite the stars.

As captain of the merchant ship Marada, Sebastian has been commissioned to deliver a curious parcel to a ruthless pirate named Ethanule. But when a bewitching young woman mysteriously appears on his ship, he finds it impossible to focus on the job...and to keep his hands off her.

Held captive most of her life, Analia makes a desperate bid for freedom and escapes onto a craft led by a fearsome demon who sparks her desire, but her secrets are more dangerous than she knows. If she is to maintain her freedom, she must gain Sebastian's trust while concealing her true nature.

The Demon's Possession is the first installment of the bestselling paranormal romance series, Shadow Quest.

INTERVIEW WITH THE AUTHOR

Q - Tell us a little bit about your Shadow Quest series.

Shadow Quest is a unique mix of genres that incorporates paranormal romance, fantasy romance, and science fiction romance. My characters are based loosely in mythology with some kick-but mythical creatures such as demons, dragons, witches, and fey-like beings. Since they’re all from different planets, I suppose they’d be considered aliens.

Each book focuses on the relationship of the hero and heroine and the trust they must build with one another. The connection they form is a slow-burn at first, and then turns combustible. I play with the fated mates theme, but the conflict and mistrust keeps things interesting. Ultimately love wins out in the end, if they can survive the journey.

Q – What order should I read the books in?

Each book can be read in any order and the reader can still follow along, but for the full experience, I suggest the following sequence:

- The Demon's Possession

- The Demon Slave

- The Demon's Retribution

- Demon Untamed

Q - So, why should readers give these books a try?

Paranormal romance fans are ravenous, and my Shadow Quest series hits the spot. Readers have told me they have read The Demon's Possession several times over and still enjoy it. It’s a series that draws you in and makes you long for more.

Readers who enjoy witty romance, alpha males, and lots of action will want to take this epic journey.

Q - What inspired the world you created in The Demon's Possession, having it take place in space and different planets?

I’ve always been interested in scifi, fantasy, paranormal, and mythology. I thought about the kind of romance novels I enjoy reading and what I liked about them: the idea that there could be a supernatural world within our own, veiled from sight.

Then I thought, “What if all these creatures from lore were really from different planets?” After that, the world building came naturally.

Shadow Quest series ebook Categories

- Paranormal Romance Series

- Futuristic Romance

- Science Fiction Romance Series

- Scifi Romance

- Fantasy Romance Series

- Demons & Devils

- Demon Romance

- Romance With Alpha Males

- Witches & Wizards

- Myths & Legends

- Aliens

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REVIEW

What I enjoyed: Close to midway through the novel, the story took a turn I didn't fully anticipate. As I learned more about Analia's past, I discovered I genuinely wanted to follow her journey to the ultimate end. Therefore, I will be picking up the next installment (this is book one of the Shadow Quest series). 

Sebastian and Analia are charming enough. Sebastian, the demon captain of the Marada, is super sexy and very Alpha male. Analia starts out timid, and as her confidence grows, she becomes the emotional anchor Sebastian needs. 

All of this inevitably leads to what made the story less likable. The couple is a bit stereotypical. I honestly almost stopped reading it, although when the plot began to thicken, I was glad I didn't. 

Typically sci-fi is not my go-to, but The Demon's Possession was a nice diversion from my normal genre.

Highland Sword A Royal Highlander Novel by May McGoldrick

ABOUT THE BOOK

Scottish pride, persuasion, and passion—this is Highland romance at its breathtaking best.

From USA Today bestselling author May McGoldrick comes Highland Sword, the third book in the Royal Highlander series.

A VOW FOR VENGEANCE

Fleeing to the Highlands after her father’s murder, fiery Morrigan Drummond has a score to settle with Sir Rupert Burney, the English spymaster responsible for his death. Trained to fight alongside the other rebels determined to break Britain’s hold on Scotland, she swears to avenge her father’s death—until a chance encounter with a barrister as proud and principled as she is presents her with a hard choice…and a bittersweet temptation.

A PLEA FOR PASSION

Aidan Grant has never encountered another woman like dangerous beauty Morrigan—and he has the bruises to prove it. Yet she could be the key to defending two innocent men, as well as striking a death blow to the reprehensible Burney. Convincing Morrigan to help him will take time, but Aidan is willing to wait if it means victory over corrupt government forces and freedom for his people…and Morrigan’s hand in marriage. Can two warriors committed to a cause stand down long enough to open their hearts to a love fierce enough to last…forever?

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REVIEW

I encountered no issues following the events or relationships in Highland Sword despite not reading any prior novels in this series. Against a historical Scottish backdrop, Morrigan and Aiden search for vengeance. Both characters are determined and capable in their quests, whether they are working together toward a goal or individually. Morrigan is a strong-willed, fun heroine, and Aiden is well suited to calm Morrigan's storm. The romance between Morrigan and Aiden was slow to take effect, but I enjoyed the pacing of it. I found their snarky and flirtatious encounters to be endearing. I enjoyed reading Highland Sword and recommend it for lovers of historical romantic fiction.

The Scent of Murder by Kylie Logan

 ABOUT THE BOOK 

First in a new series from national bestselling author Kylie Logan, The Scent of Murder is a riveting mystery following Jazz Ramsey as she trains cadaver dogs. 

The way Jazz Ramsey figures it, life is pretty good. She owns her own home in one of Cleveland’s most diverse, artsy, and interesting neighborhoods. She has a job she likes as an administrative assistant at an all-girls school, and a volunteer interest she’s passionate about—Jazz is a cadaver dog handler.

Jazz is working with Luther, a cadaver dog in training. Luther is still learning cadaver work, so Jazz is putting him through his paces at an abandoned building that will soon be turned into pricey condos. When Luther signals a find, Jazz is stunned to see the body of a young woman who is dressed in black and wearing the kind of make-up and jewelry Jazz used to see on the Goth kids back in high school.

She’s even more shocked when she realizes that beneath the tattoos and the piercings and all that pale makeup is a familiar face.

The lead detective on the case is an old lover, and the murdered woman is a former student. Jazz finds herself sucked into the case, obsessed with learning the truth.

 PURCHASE ON AMAZON 

 REVIEW 

Spending time with Jazz while solving the mystery of The Scent of Murder was pleasant. We see the pieces of her life from family, to friends, to an old romance she may renew, which helps create a full picture of who Jazz is as a person.  By creating this background, it is clear The Scent of Murder will not be the only novel centered around Jazz.  It serves to get the reader attached to her character and does a decent job of it.

Due to the attentive character building, the mystery does move along a bit slow for my tastes.  Not that the pacing here is necessarily a bad thing, I simply prefer more of a thrilling approach in my murder mysteries. 

I found it a bit odd that a book in which the main character trains cadaver dogs showed so very little of that.  Hopefully, in future installments, there will be further insight into this part of Jazz's life.

Overall I enjoyed the early copy I received of The Scent of Murder by Kylie Logan.  The main test for me in any mystery is whether or not I could figure out the who done it beforehand, and here I could not.  I appreciate an author who gives the audience clues/ red herrings in a way that doesn't point the arrow too quickly at the culprit. It is a delicate balance for me, and here I enjoyed not knowing the answers until the end of the story.

The Burglar by Thomas Perry

ABOUT THE BOOK

A cunning thief is on the run for her life in a breakneck thriller from the New York Times–bestselling “master of nail-biting suspense” (Los Angeles Times).

Elle Stowell is a young woman with an unconventional profession: burglary. But Elle is no petty thief—with just the right combination of smarts, looks, and skills, she can easily stroll through ritzy Bel Air neighborhoods and pick out the perfect home for plucking the most valuable items. This is how Elle has always gotten by—she is good at it, and she thrives on the thrill. But after stumbling upon a grisly triple homicide while stealing from the home of a wealthy art dealer, Elle discovers that she is no longer the only one sneaking around. Somebody is searching for her.

As Elle realizes that her knowledge of the high-profile murder has made her a target, she races to solve the case before becoming the next casualty, using her breaking-and-entering skills to uncover the truth about exactly who the victims were and why someone might have wanted them dead. With high-stakes action and shocking revelations, The Burglar will keep readers on the edge of their seats as they barrel towards the heart-racing conclusion.

“The fact is, there are probably only half a dozen suspense writers now alive who can be depended upon to deliver high voltage shocks . . . Thomas Perry is one of them.” —Stephen King

Purchase on Amazon

REVIEW

I would like to disclose that I did not finish this novel, the following is my opinion until chapter 16. Grove Atlantic, through NetGalley, gave me a copy of The Burglar by Thomas Perry for my honest opinion. I encourage all readers to draw their own conclusions.

Elle is good at her job as a cat burglar. She does her homework to ensure she does not get caught and no one gets hurt, she gets in and out quickly and is not too greedy. It is interesting to watch her execute plans. A lot of thought is put into the best way to present a successful thief. Elle takes advantage of an empty house and happens upon a crime scene which threatens her anonymity. A trio of naked victims who were in the midst of recording their interlude is dead, and Elle is on film entering the area. She attempts to guarantee she is not implicated in the crime while trying to ensure the police solve the murder.

Elle attempts to investigate the crime herself in case something eventually points to her. As the story moves forward, Elle seems to make little progress. She discovers someone breaks into her apartment, someone is stalking her favorite hang-out spot, she tracks someone following her to what could be a base of operations, but none of them lead to any revelations. 

Instead, she moves to several hotels within the city, changing cars often to throw off any pursuers, this is the majority of what she does, for too long. A Canadian Cowboy, as Elle he calls him, hits on her at one of her hotel stays. Elle fills some inner monologue hinting she shouldn't trust him, then she lets him drive her to the middle of nowhere. When it turns out the cowboy is not what he seems Elle spends several more paragraphs berating herself for trusting him. That is where the book lost me. Maybe it gets better when the loose ends start tying together. Unfortunately, I don't have the patience to find out. Although there were a few interesting occurrences, my particular favorite is when Elle stands up to a threatening jewel fence, her story did not grip me. I wish it did. 

The Claiming of Sleeping Beauty by Anne Rice writing as A. N. Roquelaure

 ABOUT THE BOOK 

Before E.L. James’ Fifty Shades of Grey and Sylvia Day's Bared to You, there was Anne Rice’s New York Times best seller The Claiming of Sleeping Beauty

In the traditional folktale of "Sleeping Beauty," the spell cast upon the lovely young princess and everyone in her castle can only be broken by the kiss of a Prince. It is an ancient story, one that originally emerged from and still deeply disturbs the mind's unconscious. In the first book of the trilogy, Anne Rice (author of Beauty's Kingdom), writing as A.N. Roquelaure, retells the Beauty story and probes the unspoken implications of this lush, suggestive tale by exploring its undeniable connection to sexual desire. Here the Prince awakens Beauty, not with a kiss, but with sexual initiation. His reward for ending the hundred years of enchantment is Beauty's complete and total enslavement to him . . . as Anne Rice explores the world of erotic yearning and fantasy in a classic that becomes, with her skillful pen, a compelling experience. Readers of Fifty Shades of Grey will indulge in Rice’s deft storytelling and imaginative eroticism, a sure-to-be classic for years to come.

Praise for The Claiming of Sleeping Beauty:

"Articulate, baroque, and fashionably pornographic." —Playboy

"Something very special . . . at once so light and yet so haunting." —The Advocate

 REVIEW 

Being a fan of Anne Rice, I have always been curious about this book. In an effort to read a "fairy tale retelling," I decided to give the story a try, and I am not sure how I feel having just finished the reading. What I am sure of is this, this is a BDSM fetish story. I don't know how it compares to what one gets out of the experience in reality. I only speak as someone with a mild curiosity on the subject. I was as uncomfortable with this story as I was excited by it. I understand the fixation. I can concede how willing participants might gain insight and restraint from the act, but the humiliation and degradation the love slaves suffered in Claiming of Sleeping Beauty was periodically hard to take. But I did read all the way to the end. Only to be handed a big stinking cliff hanger. Now I have to decide how much I want to know where the tale is going and if it is worth more titillating discomfort. So, this story is not for everyone. If you are easily offended by dubious consent or severe treatment, just don't read it. If you are interested, be ready for an in-your-face journey. Would I recommend it? Yeah, maybe, but still not sure.

The Darkest Captive: A Lords of the Underworld Novella by Gena Showalter

 ABOUT THE BOOK 

From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Gena Showalter comes a new story in her Lords of the Underworld series… 

For centuries, Galen the Treacherous has been the most hated immortal in the Underworld. With good reason! This bad boy of bad boys has lied, stolen, cheated and killed with abandon. Possessed by the demons of Jealousy and False Hope, he has always lived for a single purpose: destroy everything.

Then he met her.

Former demon turned human femme fatale — Legion Honey -- sought to kill Galen, but ended up parting with her virginity instead. Afraid of their sizzling connection, she ran away…and ended up trapped in hell, tortured and abused in the worst of ways. Now she’s free, and a shell of herself, afraid of her own shadow. 

Galen's hunger for Legion has only grown. Now the warrior with nothing to lose must help her rekindle the fire that once burned inside her. But as desires blaze white-hot, will Legion run again? Or will the unlikely pair succumb to love at long last?

**Every 1001 Dark Nights novella is a standalone story. For new readers, it’s an introduction to an author’s world. And for fans, it’s a bonus book in the author’s series. We hope you'll enjoy each one as much as we do.**

Amazon

 REVIEW 

Lords of the Underworld by Gena Showalter was one of the first paranormal romance series I started to follow. I found them as I discovered reading a continuing series was my favorite way to enjoy paranormal romance. It is a fantastic concept, immortal warriors inhabited by the demons they set free as a punishment. They have to learn to deal with the evil inside of them, without becoming evil themselves. And they are sexy and very alpha. Fast forward to Darkest Captive, actually a few books prior, and I am not sure these books are for me anymore.

The pairing of Galen and Legion as a couple works well. Both characters require redemption at the start of their relationship. I love a salvation story as I find anti-heroes most intriguing. It is disappointing the couple did not receive a full-length novel since they have been circling one another for several books now. Perhaps the bulk of their story has already been told.

With the corruption that appears in the world, there are many ways of exploring how demons can alter one's outlook. In the current installment, False Hope and Jealousy inhabit Galen. These inner struggles as the demons influence the host is tense, clever and entertaining.

Legion's arc, several books back, is excellent. She barters with Lucifer to obtain a gorgeous human body, hoping to win the love of one of the Lords. In the end, just after meeting Galen, she is sent back to hell. From this return trip derives her PTSD. The physical and most notably the sexual, abuse she undergoes is a common theme in these books. Frankly, it is starting to feel overused. Not only that, but Legion does all her healing off stage making the struggle feel less genuine. What I am left with is the feeling it solely serves as the hurdle to keep Legion from wooing with Galen. And it gives Galen the opportunity to prove his love by exacting violence on Legion's abusers.

I tend to listen to audio-books as much as possible. Therefore, my biggest complaint with the book/series may be due to the narrator's interpretation of the text, leading me to not fully commit to this criticism. Lately, I have felt a great deal of the character speech has been excessively juvenile. It has not been just one individual or one sex, and it seems to pop up several times over multiple installments. Actually, it has become cringe-worthy, so much so I considered stopping the book this go round. In the beginning, I did not have this issue, but the first few books I physically read. I may attempt the next book without the audio to make my final decision, but the series may have reached the back burner for me.

Midnight With the Devil by Emma Castle

Midnight with the Devil by Emma Castle is an enjoyable concept. The approach here is a deal with the Devil. Diana's father is in the hospital, dying of cancer. Lucian Star, as the Devil calls himself in this instance, overhears Diana's plea for her father's life. Realizing Diana could be useful to him, Lucian agrees to save him. His general goal is the corruption of her soul, to safeguard the gates of hell with the act.

Diana's part of the contract requires Friday nights, for three months, be spent in Lucian's company from dusk till dawn. Lucian is, of course, the ultimate bad boy. And bad boys are an attraction. Diana spends a good deal of time fretting over the attraction/lust she feels for Lucian. Finally giving into her primal urges, Diana discovers there are many things she got wrong about the Devil, and how he fits into her sense of morality.

Overall I enjoyed this story. The mythos created here was entertaining. In a dominance story, the women are occasionally too submissive, but in Midnight with the Devil, I never felt that way about Diana. She kept a level head and realized when she had things wrong. Lucian is what you would expect from the Devil if the Devil wasn't evil incarnate.

However, something felt off to me. Maybe it was the flow between actions. Segues did not always seem smooth to me. There were times I felt there should have been more to the scenes, or maybe some further background to things. In the end, the mythology kept me intrigued, and the chemistry between Diana and Lucian was engaging. I received a copy of this book through NetGalley for my honest opinion. I encourage all readers to reach their own conclusions.

Amazon Link

Purgatory's Angel by B. Huges-Millman

Jamie is, what she refers to as, a Dark Angel. She volunteers to defend humans from demons, and Jamie's battlefield is our dreams. During sleep, Jamie will transport to a demon hunting in nightmares, to stop them from murdering the dreamer. The concept of Purgatory's Angel by B. Hughes-Millman is an imaginative one. Being in mortal danger, while one is so vulnerable during sleep, is a truly terrifying scenario.

While in the dream realm, Jamie usually remembers every aspect of her fight. Upon waking one day, the details of the dream she was defending in are frustratingly vague. Most of what Jamie retains is her friend Sarah, and a man Jamie has never met before, are present for whatever occurred. Disturbingly, the day after this dream, Jamie meets the man, Collin, in the waking world. The significance of the scene is more than it appears. When Collin and Jamie finally address this encounter, a twist in events reveals itself that I had not connected. I enjoy when a situation surprises me.

Instantly, Jamie feels a connection with Collin, although she worries he is a demon and means to harm her. Soon, she discovers the connection she feels is mutual, but the couple remains suspicious of one another. The downfall in this story is with the romance. Jamie and Collin possess fantastic chemistry. However, deception surrounds the couple. It was difficult for me to support their union, after witnessing the manipulation Jamie and Collin experience, and do to one another.

Jamie speaking of pre-existence, what I assume is the realm, or time, when she fought against Lucifer, always leads to more questions than answers for me. Jamie states Dark Angels heal fast, as an explanation to why she appears younger than her ninety years of age. Demons kill Jamie's parents and grandmother, proving they are not immortal. Assuming this is her first lifetime, and the author never gives reason to believe anything different, it does not seem possible only ninety years passed since Jamie fought against Lucifer. It seems the battle would have been, well, a very long time ago. The matter of her existence before being a dream warrior causes great frustration for me. I do acknowledge that future clarification on these points is possible. Being the first novel in a series, some of the explanation I am looking for may come later.

Aspects of Purgatory's Angel I enjoyed, it was unique and engaging. The relationship between Jamie and Collin, however, was a bit difficult for me to get behind, which took away from this enjoyment. It makes me question if reading the series, in its entirety, would be worth it for me.

Amazon Link

Concealment by Rose Edmunds

Amy is a part of the Blue Skies Brainstorming Group at Pearson Malone, whose focus is on tax law. This company is currently brokering a big sale for one of the firm's major clients. In the beginning of Concealment by Rose Edmunds, a lot of tax jargon was present. The explanations of tax law are relevant clues relating to the plot. I, unfortunately, realized early that this did not hold my attention. It was difficult for me to push my way through to get to the action. A member of Amy's advisory group is found murdered. Through an unlucky chain of events, Amy becomes entangled in the investigation. At one point, she even becomes a suspect.

The reveal of Amy's psychological condition seemed to take a while, so long that not knowing became an annoyance for me. Amy is clearly delusional. She sees, and often converses with, a manifestation of her teenage self. Learning, finally, that her mother is a hoarder, I had the thought that it could not be as traumatic as she leads it out to be. When the character soon references derision from others that mirrors my own thoughts, it gave me pause. Amy's mother blames her for the urges she fights. The suffering from that alone would likely leave Amy with severe self-esteem issues if nothing else. Amy inwardly berates herself about her weirdness. She considers herself masquerading as someone she is not, lending credibility to that theory.

The stress on Amy increases, due to the murder investigation and her responsibilities to her firm's client, and she experiences a mental break. Here, I found myself reevaluating the plot thus far, and I began to suspect Amy was an unreliable narrator. The people disagreeing with her explanation of events seemed reasonable. Amy's scenario, suddenly, appeared to be ludicrous. I don't know if this was intentional on the author's part, but Amy's instability gave an extra layer of suspense to the action. The indecision continued until I convinced myself Amy was completely irrational. When deciding if Amy was seeing and concluding things correctly, or if her delusions got the better of her, it was an intriguing inner battle to experience. One I enjoyed as much as I became frustrated by it. The bonus came when a plot twist vindicates Amy.

I have mixed feelings about Concealment. The mystery aspect held my attention. I did not see the resolution coming, which is a significant allure to me. Admittedly though, I did not like Amy. She was not a sympathetic character to me at all. Arguably, that doesn't matter. In the end, her detachment to those around her is explained through her illness. My focus on her journey was how her mental abuse hindered healthy adult relationships in her life. I encourage all readers to draw their own conclusions.

Amazon Link

Broken Promise by Tara Thomas

Barnes and Noble Link

Broken Promise is the third book in the Sons of Broad series. The eldest Benedict brother Kipling is the center of this romantic thriller. Alyssa, Kipling’s partner and would be lover, discovers things about her family and her murdered sister while helping Kipling find his kidnapped half-sister. A connection exists in their separate tragedies, and the couple confronts the threat the Gentleman has been tormenting the Benedict’s with.

Kipling and Alyssa were gravitating toward one another in previous novels, and here they develop it. Their attraction matured naturally into love, the compatibility they share obvious. Kipling and Alyssa are entertaining together. I appreciate the dry humor between the two. They are also intelligent enough to defend against the threat from the Gentleman.

The background given on the Gentleman reveals his true identity and his supposed slights with the Benedict family. The Gentleman works as the protagonist for me in Broken Promise. Exposing his background gives him more substance in my eyes. Realizing his true motivations increase the anxiety. It is unsettling for the characters, understanding there’s no reasoning with a madman.

All and all I was glad to read the conclusion to this series. The romance was engaging. I worried about the leads when their lives were in danger. I became wary of and disgusted by the bad guy and his motivation. I could foresee some of the mystery unravel before the reveal, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Decent tension presents itself, and a few things still surprised me. I'd give it a solid three out of five stars. Worth mentioning, the bonus content is kind of sweet. There is a great speech given at a wedding so check it out if you can. This book was given to me by Netgalley and St. Martin's Press for my honest opinion. I encourage all readers to come to their own conclusions.

X Marks the Spot by Opal Carew

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X Marks the Spot is a stand-alone novella by Opal Carew. While celebrating Abi's brother's wedding, Abi is determined to act on the crush she has had on Del since the two of them attended college together. While trying to make her move on Del, Abi finds herself in Liam's bed by accident. Liam, deciding its time to renew efforts to win his estranged wife back uses Abi's mistake to his benefit and seduces her.

The idea for this book is good in concept. I enjoy a denied passion love story. The romantic encounters are pretty sexy and serve the purpose of getting your blood pumping. The scenarios are motivated mainly by Abi's indecision on which of the male characters she wants, which leads to bed-hopping between the two men, and eventually the three of them together. There is less time to develop characters the shorter the story is, and here they are a little one dimensional, but this fact may not matter depending on one's perspective. The story unfolds into a string of sexual fantasies and not much else, which is not necessarily a bad thing. The men are sexy and in love. The woman gets what she wants in the end, and everyone is happy. In between, they all spend a lot of time between the sheets. If lustful thoughts are what you want out of your erotic romances this one will deliver.

I received an ARC copy from NetGalley and St. Martin's Press in exchange for my honest opinion. All opinions are my own and may not be identical to others. I urge all readers to come to their own conclusions.

The Darkest Night by Tara Thomas

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The Darkest Night by Tara Thomas is a modern romantic thriller and part one of the Sons of Broad series. I received an ARC copy from NetGalley and St. Martin's Press in exchange for my honest review.

This story follows Tilly weeks before her college graduation. She reunites with her childhood love Keaton, one brother of three belonging to the Benedict fortune, and her life begins to unravel. When Tilly's life is in danger, Keaton moves her into the Benedict mansion to keep her safe. Not only do Tilly and Keaton have to deal with a killer, but they have obstacles within their circle that could prevent them from being together.

Lovers reunited is an endearing premise, and Tilly and Keaton are sweet together. When things started to go wrong, especially during the threat from a childhood friend of theirs, I was rooting for them. The other Benedict brothers were engaging as well. I assume the rest of the Sons of Broad series will follow them and I would be interested in their stories based on what I read here.

The focus in this story was off for me. I found myself uninterested in the thriller aspect of it. I did not find the bad guy intimidating, and I think a fear of him was necessary to keep my concern for the main characters. I just wanted it over so we could get on with the rest of the story. With the ruining of Tilly's family's reputation when she was young, to the reuniting of Tilly and Keaton, through to the threat of extortion to Keaton and his family, I think there was too much to include a murder mystery.  I like a good murder mystery, but here I did not want it or need it, which is unfortunate.

There are aspects of this story I enjoyed. As stated, I would be willing to give another book in this series a chance. All opinions are my own and may not match that of others. I urge all readers to come to their own conclusions.

Ride by Allison Gatta

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The first story in the Wild Hearts series is the novella Ride by Allison Gatta. I received an ARC copy from NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion. Quinn decides to leave her fiancee without telling her sister Zoe just minutes before the wedding. Zoe blames Ian, Quinn's best friend, for Quinn's fleeing, so Zoe demands Ian help her find and bring Quinn back. Ian drives Zoe to places he tells her Quinn may be and the couple starts to see each other in ways different than before.

Zoe and Ian start off in conflict. I enjoy a story where the main characters begin hostile with each other, and then it develops into something more. Reaching the point when the couple begins to click it was believable. At the height of this, I got a little teary-eyed by the sweetness when Zoe met Ian's parents. Of course, it all comes crashing down, and it was at this point I felt less connected to the characters. You couldn't exactly call it love at first sight since Zoe and Ian know each other through Quinn, but the story jumped right to that shared declaration of love. It is a possibility, especially because of the close quarters Zoe and Ian spent with each other for three days, but I always have a hard time with that cliché. Here their story did not quite convince me of the truth in it.

Despite my reservation, I still enjoyed Zoe and Ian's tale. Perhaps if the story was a novel and they interacted more prior to looking for Quinn, their journey would have felt different for me. Either way, Ride was worth a read. All opinions are my own and may not match that of others. I urge all readers to come to their own conclusions.

The Billionaires: The Stepbrothers Lover's Triangle #3 - Calista Fox

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The Billionaires: The Stepbrothers is #3 in the Lover's Triangle series by Calista Fox. I did not feel I was missing any pertinent information beginning with book three. This book would appeal to those who enjoy a modern romance with a ménage à trois focus.

Scarlet is investigating a cold case involving a missing art collection of great value. During her investigation, Scarlet must question the stepbrothers, Michael and Sam. Scarlet is immediately enamored with both men when they meet individually, and soon she learns they have an affinity for enjoying their women together. Scarlet must decide how to handle her growing attraction to the stepbrothers while staying impartial during her investigation.

The good: Michael and Sam are both appealing for different reasons. Michael is spontaneous and a little aggressive, Sam is sweet and a bit tender. The characters had intelligence, indicating they did not exist solely for sake of the cliché. The chemistry between the couples did not feel forced and was quite sexy. There was a decent plot with a twist I did not predict right away. I appreciate the attempt to tell a story amidst the romantic fantasy.

The bad: The story fell a bit flat for me. It mimicked what I get out of watching a crime of the week television show. I felt the emotions where appropriate, intrigue with the art heist, desire for the men, sympathy for the loss the characters experienced, tension when new clues come to light, but now that it's over the story will fade and be forgotten. Perhaps I needed more quality time with the characters as a unit to feel more connected to them. Leaving the story as is, that connection just isn't there.

Despite its faults, this story was not bad. It was engaging and entertaining. If one is looking for a quick and easy read with some sensuality, this book will deliver that. 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 an ARC copy of this book through NetGalley.

The Vampire Fight Club by Larissa Ione

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Vampire Fight Club takes place in the Demonica world and works fine as a stand-alone. This story is good for anyone who enjoys paranormal romances. The series is one of my favorites and reading this short was like visiting old friends. 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 an ARC copy of this book through NetGalley.

For decades Nate has managed club Thirst and finds himself apathetic to the horrors going on around him. He took the job decades ago in hopes of gaining revenge against the club's owner. As time passed, Nate found the opportunity for him to act on those intentions never seemed right. During Vladlena's shift at Underworld General, the staff brings in her victimized brother. Because of this event, Vladlena goes undercover at the club her brother lost his life. With help from her friends at UG, she hopes to bring down the fight club they suspect is running there.

Nate and Vladlena meet and strong feelings manifest immediately between them. These feelings are both a hindrance and the thing that saves them. As their relationship develops, the chemistry between them sizzles. Their attraction feels genuine, and the actions they take reinforces their connection.  I hoped for them to make things work.

In the Demonica world, not all demons are inherently evil. The characters are capable of as much good or bad as anyone is. It intrigues me when the bad guys are harder to find, and this demon trait lends to that. It helps creates tension wondering if everyone will do the right thing. I love this about the Demonica series.

One romance story trope I do not like is using a character's virginity as a plot point. Vladlena has a rare shifter ailment that is threatening her life.  Because of her ailment, she is a virgin. Nate, of course, has to save her from a terrible fate that threatens her solely because of her virginity. I will admit the scenario plays out as good as it can. However, it felt to me like a situation created just to elongate the book. It was already a short story so what is the point? It is highly possible someone who does not have my aversion won't find it bothersome.The only other bad thing I could say is that the story felt a tad rushed.  As previously stated it is a short story so ultimately I can forgive it.  However, I could have spent more time with the characters in a full length novel and been okay.

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.

Beyond the Rules by Anna Del Mar

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Beyond the Rules by Anna Del Mar. This book was an enjoyable deviation from my regular preference of urban fantasy or paranormal romance. I would recommend Beyond the Rules to readers who enjoy modern erotic romance. The following is my summary and honest opinion of the book.

Nina is discovered when trying to expose Dimayev is working with a cyber-terrorist. She is desperate to get to the hacker Ulysses who can help her uncover his crimes. Nina's escape is almost thwarted when her small passenger plane is shot down by Dimayev's men.

Ex-SEAL members Tanner, Aiden and Zar rescue Nina from the plane wreckage. The men take her to their secure home in the secluded mountains of Montana to recuperate. Nina soon realizes these men are the key to her survival in more ways than one.

Tanner, Aiden, and Zar have strongly bonded through past experiences. The men have decided that to be romantically successful they need one woman to share. Tanner is educated in personality profiling. He quickly comes to the conclusion Nina is the girl who could fulfill all of their desires.

The good: Where this story succeeds for me is in the execution. Nina is not just an intimidated, naïve virgin. She is intelligent and could feasibly make a go at protecting herself from Dimayev. Nina makes sound decisions and is comfortable and open about her sexuality. She comes to conclusions about her relationships with the men from a place based in reality. Their actions are not driven only by the fantasy of the ménage a quatre scenario.

There is a plot present beyond the romantic couplings. The characters may struggle but they seem stronger together mentally as well as physically. Throughout the story Tanner, Aiden, and Zar hunt to bring Dimayev down. When Nina is cleared to help them gather evidence she effectively contributes to the case. These things were important for me to relate to the characters in the story.

Random tidbits: I appreciated that the first couple that got together did not profess to love each other the day after they met. They recognized the chemistry between them and just let things happen. I appreciated although the men claimed jealousy would not be an issue, it eventually was. Realistically it would come up. They dealt with it as a group in a way I believed would suit them. The sexual encounters lived up to the genre of erotic romance. The explicit scenes were steamy and most of them felt organic.

The bad: The surface plot is pretty basic. There is the girl who needs to be rescued from the bad guy. Said girl happens upon her saviors that take her in and immediately try to make her theirs. She quickly falls for the level-headed alpha male, followed by the sweet but troubled alpha male and then slowly connects with the abrasive alpha male to round out the trio. And of course one of the men is a sexual dominant. I have read this story before. I did not like this story very much.

This author has caught my attention. I will look to Anna Del Mar for my next modern erotic romance.

All my opinions are my own and may not match that of others. I encourage all readers to come to their own conclusions. I voluntarily received an ARC copy of this book through Netgalley.