Battle Born For You (Tell All Secrets Book 2) by Layla Lochran Blog Tour Stop: Battle Born for You Playlist and Review

 

We're excited to share with you the second book in Layla Lochran's Tell All Secrets series, BATTLE BORN FOR YOU! This second chance romance and continuation of Alexander and Liliana's story is available in eBook, Paperback, and Audiobook formats, grab your copy on Amazon today! 

Tell All Secrets Playlist

Greetings lassies! Music plays a large role in this series, so what better way to dive in than by creating a playlist you can interact with whilst you read. The order it’s listed in coincides with the plot from the beginning of Painting Her Fate and continues throughout Battle Born for You.

Check it out on Spotify. >>>  https://tinyurl.com/spotifyphfbbfy 

From Green Day, to Five Finger Death Punch, to Andy Grammar, and everything in between, each song plays tribute to the characters in the scenes they’re mentioned in. They tell of the emotion, the despair, the agony, and the love in that moment. A song can speak many words, captivate the listener in the adventure; they are stories in of themselves. Absolutely beautiful.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Battle Born for You
by Layla Lochran
(Tell All Secrets #2)
October 24, 2022

Alexander: Stumbling upon the one person you're missing in your life only to screw up and watch her walk away. It's Soul crushing. Heartbreaking. What Lili doesn't know is this Marine's endurance is untamable. I've been beaten down, now it's time to rise, or submit and lose it all. Do I succumb to the darkness and welcome the silence? My sunshine is shrouded in ominous blackness; the trust she placed on me now vanquished. She's gone and I fear my demons will find their way out.
Knock, knock. Poetry is my expression, only now that life is grim. I'm no longer in control. I do not want to hurt those I love, but I cannot keep afloat. I'm drowning, calling for help; the gun is in my hand and I'm eager to pull the trigger.

Liliana: He betrayed my trust and now my skeletons are out of the closet for all to see. If any of my secrets fall in the wrong hands, chaos would follow. I knew I could never love, so why does this hurt so? The monster is at the forefront of my mind, enjoying the game. Time to play. Can I trust Zander and his mates with their vow of protection? If I have learned anything, you should never question a Marine's promise. With music as my emotion, the songs playing behind the locked door tell me of a broken man's world. Sometimes it's the hero that needs saving, this be one of those times. Do not fret, Alexander, I'm going to save ye.

Buy Links

eBook

Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon CA | Amazon IN | Amazon AU

Paperback

Amazon

Audiobook 

Narrated by Joe Arden and Stella Hunter 

Other Titles by Layla Lochran

Painting Her Fate – Book 1 

eBook | Paperback | Audiobook

Pre-order More for Me, Book #3 in the Tell All Secrets series – Coming 03/13/2023

Narrator announcement coming soon!

eBook

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Layla Lochran is an international bestselling author best known for her Tell All Secrets suspenseful romance series and the Ambrota Defenders paranormal romance series.

Layla resides nestled in the woodlands of Western New York with her son and adopted pet, Kit Kat. School life is her passion, writing romance gives her satisfaction. She enjoys her family, musical instruments, festivals, and takes pride in being a volunteer LGBTQ+ youth counselor and advocator of Love is Love.  

Where you can find Layla Lochran…

Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | TikTok | BookBub | Pinterest | Blog | Goodreads | Email – laylalochran@gmail.com 

Tour-Wide Giveaway

To celebrate the release of Battle Born For You, Layla is giving away a $20.00 Amazon Gift Card to one reader during this blog tour! To enter, fill out the Rafflecopter form found in this post. Follow along with the Blog Tour for more chances to win daily. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

REVIEW

PTSD and severe trauma has made it hard for Zander and Lili to find pleasure in life, much less make it easy for them to give themselves over to love. In Painting Her Fate, we see Lili’s steps to trust another with the demons from her past and let love in, In Battle Born for You we see Zander’s journey to do the same.

There is no doubt the couple fought long and hard against painful memories alone and they desperately need to feel safe and loved. As with Lili, Zander has a tough time of it, which is heart wrenching. He discovers Lili grounds him in the present and makes the pain bearable in the same way he did for her. The bond between Zander and Lili, and the fact their built trust can conquer feelings of inadequacy and silence their monsters, feels truly authentic. 

One thing I will say, some parts of the story felt slightly disjointed, Zander and Lili’s confrontation in the beginning especially. Then part of that conflict isn't really resolved and it feels like something big to just leave hanging. Maybe that resolution will come later, with an upcoming story. Meeting the people surrounding Zander and Lily, I am definitely on board to see where life takes them in the Tell All Secrets series. 

Also worth noting the audio narration for Battle Born for You is fantastic. This is a huge deal for me since I am an avid audiobook listener and bad narration can ruin the experience. With Battle Born for You that was not an issue.

Painting Her Fate by Layla Lochran: Blog Tour Stop

 

We're so excited to share with you this new suspenseful military romance release from author, Layla Lochran! PAINTING HER FATE is now available in eBook, Paperback, and Audiobook format, grab your copy today on Amazon! 

About the Book

Painting Her Fate
by  Layla Lochran
Tell All Secrets #1
Release date: September 19, 2022

Liliana: I’m a lass from London setting my life on track. My past left me trapped inside my mind, screaming. Can you hear it? I thought I’d be this way the rest of my days, then I found my passion.
To make the world a better place.

This artist is ready for new adventures only just as things are set in play, they spiral out of control and the one person who means the most may not survive. As my world careens, strong arms envelop me the same time sweet whispers lend their comfort. Only now monsters lurk within the shadows waiting to strike. Will I come out unscathed?

Alexander: Coming home from a war I could not win left me wounded, weak, and misplaced in my small town. This Marine is a far cry from who he once was. I have accepted my fate and thought I could move on. 

If only it was that easy.

Now two years home, I know this isn’t the man I’m meant to be. War changes a person and this one is on the brink of losing it all. Until one cry for help. A fiery vixen with a mean reflex. She’s perfect, too pure for me. Lili deserves much better than this broken shell I have become. Only once I have her, I can’t let go.

eBook:

Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon CA | Amazon IN | Amazon JP | Amazon FR | Amazon IT | Amazon MX | Amazon BR | Amazon AU

 Paperback: Amazon 

Audiobook (Narrated by Joe Arden and Stella Hunter): Audible

📚 Pre-order your eBook copy of Battle Born for You (Tell All Secrets #2) today! 📚

Amazon (Releasing October 24th, 2022)

EXCERPT:

“Are you sure you’re, okay?” She leans in close to me and I can’t help but breathe her in. It’s light and intoxicating. Like a gentle rain with summer flowers. My eyes close at this momentary bliss. Heavenly. “Oh, that’s it.” Her tone and temper take on a tinge of Scotland, a fierce woman ready for battle, “you need a hospital.”
She continues like I didn’t speak, “If I need to drive us there, then so be it. Give me your keys.” Her commanding tone snaps me back to reality.
She holds her hand out to take my keys. I shake my head, dumbfounded. She’s bold, I’ll give her that, but I am the only one who drives my truck. I don’t even let Ford drive this.
Not a chance.
“No, I’m fine.” I mutter through clenched teeth, my pride taking a hit at showing my
vulnerability. There is no way to hide the pain from her.
Her brows draw together, and her arms cross under those enticing full breasts. Her
body is a temple with curves just begging for me to explore. Other parts of my body
seem to take notice.
takes this one as more of the shoulder pain. If she only knew.
“If I cannot drive your truck, and you refuse to drive to the hospital, I will gladly call the ambulance back and they can take you- I’ll have them strap you to the gurney.” She pulls out her phone, ready to make the call, “make your choice.” Her eyes blaze with promise. She isn’t bluffing.
Feisty and demanding as hell. I like that. I huff a grunt that comes out as a chuckle,
then I turn the key and the truck roars to life.
“You win. I’ll drive.” And just like that, I submit to this woman. 

About the Author

Layla Lochran is an international bestselling author best known for her Tell All Secrets suspenseful romance series and the Ambrota Defenders paranormal romance series.

Layla resides nestled in the woodlands of Western New York with her son and adopted pet, Kit Kat. School life is her passion, writing romance gives her satisfaction. She enjoys her family, musical instruments, festivals, and takes pride in being a volunteer LGBTQ+ youth counselor and advocator of Love is Love.  

Where you can find Layla Lochran…
Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | TikTok | BookBub | Pinterest | Blog | Goodreads | Email – laylalochran@gmail.com 

Tour-Wide Giveaway

To celebrate the release of Painting Her Fate, Layla is giving away one $20 Amazon Gift Card to one reader during this blog tour! To enter, fill out the Rafflecopter form found in this post. Follow along with the Blog Tour for more chances to win daily. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

REVIEW

Painting Her Fate by Layla Lochran is a great book one of the Tell All Secrets series.  We meet Lili and Zander and discover they both have severe trauma in their pasts.  As they both continue to find ways to cope and live, they find a renewed longing for inner peace and an attraction to one another that they cannot ignore.

 

“Insta love” in a story can often seem forced, but for this couple it feels authentic, living with what they do every day that is potentially the only thing that could gravitate them together.  It is clear they are meant for one another, and Lili and Zander make a very charming couple with lovely artistic souls.  As Lili and Zander continue to struggle, which at times can be pain staking to witness, I long for them to find their serenity.  

 

Be aware, this book could be a trigger for some, but it gives the reader warnings when it is at its worst.  Also, the story does end on a cliffhanger so you will have to wait for the next book to get the full story.  I believe Lili and Zander’s ending will be worth waiting for.

Hit Me With Your Best Scot by Suzanne Enoch

 

ABOUT THE BOOK

A Buzzfeed “19 Anticipated Books That Have Finally Been Released For You To Read”

The final book in the wickedly seductive new Scottish historical romance trilogy from New York Times bestselling author Suzanne Enoch, Hit Me With Your Best Scot!

The MacTaggert brothers have one task:

Find English brides or lose their land!

Coll MacTaggert, Viscount Glendarril, is a big, brawny Highlander who doesn’t like being told what to do—not even by his exasperated English mother who is determined to see her eldest son wedded and bedded. However, when he comes to the rescue of an irresistibly beautiful woman, Coll discovers that he may have found his perfect match…

The challenge isn’t that Persephone Jones is famous, wealthy, independent, and smarter than anyone he knows. The problem is that she isn't interested in marrying any man—especially not a hot-headed Scot—even if he is the only man who seems to understand who she really is even when she’s not sure herself. When Coll learns that Persephone is actually a lady-in-hiding and someone is willing to kill her for what she stands to inherit…Well, Coll has never been one to turn down a fight. When hearts are involved, nothing comes between a Highlander and his lady.

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REVIEW

In Hit Me with Your Best Scot Coll McTaggart is the last of the McTaggert’s who needs to find a bride, or his mother will pull all financial resources from his father and their Scottish land. Persephone Jones has everything she wants, independence and a job she loves. She begins to suspect her life is in danger and finds the idea of male protection necessary. When the path of these two crosses, they find they can help each other. Coll in finding a bride, and Persephone protection.

Although this story did not find its way to even a top ten for me and it is not my favorite of the series that I have read, it did not make me cringe while reading it. Admittedly, historical romances are not my favorite backdrop, but I do not mind them from time to time and I like a Scottish highlander. Persephone can stick up for herself and she is not a push over. Coll respects her and does not treat her like an unintelligent woman. There is not much of a slow burn here, lust plays a big part in their coming together and they do not deny that for long. The rigid society that surrounds them hinders their relationship, but they overcome it. Coll and Persephone make a good pair and there is a sweetness to them. I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys historical romance.

Nightlord: Sunset by Garon Whited

ABOUT THE BOOK

Sunset brought a hangover, a beautiful woman, and the thirst for... blood?

Eric didn't ask to be a vampire.

In fact, he didn't even believe in them. Then he meets a beautiful woman, wakes up with a hangover, and bites his tongue with his own fangs.

Which pretty much settles the question.

Now he's trying to hold down his day job while learning the rules of the Undead -- the most important being that bloodthirsty urges and predatory instincts are a real bitch.

Upside; Eric has the beautiful Sasha to teach him the ropes, including the magic he'll need to survive.

Downside; it turns out being a vampire is the least of his problems.

When Sasha is killed, Eric is thrust into an alternate world in his quest to avenge her death. There he becomes a Nightlord, fights a dragon with the help of his magical steed, Bronze, and upchucks a sword named Firebrand.

But things get really interesting when Eric finally finds Tobias, head of the Church of Light. Soon Eric finds himself at the center of an epic battle at the literal edge of the world in a fight to keep a terrible darkness at bay.

"When you fall off the Edge of the World into hordes of demonic THINGS from the Outer Darkness, you really start to wonder about your life choices."

--Eric, part-time undead, expectant father, and short-term astronaut.

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REVIEW

Eric's tale starts after meeting a beautiful woman in a bar and having a one-night stand. Sasha quickly confesses to Eric that he is the reincarnation of her lost love, and she has gifted him with the power of a Nightlord. Sasha's death leads Eric to track down her assassins. Eric locates their stronghold in a far-off land and jumps through a portal to exact justice for her death.

Eric apprises the reader of the world around him through his journal writings. Eric is entertaining. He is a bit self-deprecating while being witty. I often found myself laughing aloud at his quips. We see the unfamiliar world through his modern eyes, which helped me connect to it.

Eric provides insights into his experiences, detail on occurrences such as how he feeds and how his magic spells develop. I found these descriptions comprehensive and fascinating. Eric explains his changes on a biological level. He attempts to make sense of it rather than explaining it away as the supernatural. He contemplates things like his aversion to the water brought on by his metamorphosis or why his species may live a nocturnal existence. I appreciate the attempt to find the logical evolutionary cause of his inherent abilities. The mythos of a vampire is a common one, but the uniqueness in Nightlord is an engaging change.

The journey Eric has is a long and epic one. The reader follows while he learns a new language, meets the barons of many territories, and becomes a skilled magic and weapon user. During this, Eric gains loyal companions by being kind to commoners, freeing slaves, and battling among great knights. At times I found his explorations to be a bit too extensive. I stopped the story repeatedly in frustration feeling nothing of import was happening. Then at the culmination of his tale, the story abruptly ends. I understand the idea of a multi-book chronicle. But without a satisfying climactic ending, the cliffhanger felt like a ploy to pick up the subsequent book. Due to that, I am uncertain about moving forward with this series. I am eager to see what adventures lie ahead. However, I do not know if I can handle another story with more lengthy character interactions than plot resolutions. 

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.

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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.

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)

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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.

Social Media and Blog Tour Irresistible in a Kilt by Anna Durand

Narrated by Elle Newlands and Shane East

Blurb:

The sweetest lies are the most seductive…

Eleven years ago, I fell in love with Alex Thorne. He was beautiful, charming, sexy, and the best lover I'd ever had. He's also a bloody liar. Every word that comes out of his mouth is a half-truth, a con, or an evasion. Now I find out my dream job at a university in America is his way of pulling me back into his world. I will never, never fall under the spell of the British Bastard again.

Catriona MacTaggart is the one that got away. The Scottish lass has fire in her soul and in her eyes, especially when she punches me. I can handle that. Maybe the truth and I do have a different sort of relationship, but I've never lied about my feelings for Cat. I'll do whatever it takes to get her back, even if it means deceiving her.

Alex still knows exactly how to get under my skin, and despite all my intentions, I still can't resist that body and that smile. Maybe it's time I turn the tables and seduce the seducer, to finally solve the mystery he doesn't want me to unravel.

Who is Alex Thorne?

About the Author

Anna Durand is a bestselling, multi-award-winning author of contemporary and paranormal romance. Her books have earned bestseller status on every major retailer and wonderful reviews from readers around the world. But that’s the boring spiel. Here are some really cool things you want to know about Anna!


Born on Lackland Air Force Base in Texas, Anna grew up moving here, there, and everywhere thanks to her dad’s job as an instructor pilot. She’s lived in Texas (twice), Mississippi, California (twice), Michigan (twice), and Alaska—and now Ohio.

As for her writing, Anna has always made up stories in her head, but she didn’t write them down until her teen years. Those first awful books went into the trash can a few years later, though she learned a lot from those stories. Eventually, she would pen her first romance novel, the paranormal romance Willpower, and she’s never looked back since.

Want even more details about Anna? Get access to her extended bio when you subscribe to her newsletter and download the free bonus ebook, Hot Scots Confidential. You’ll also get hot deleted scenes, character interviews, fun facts, and more – including a bonus audiobook chapter performed by Shane East!

You can find Anna at

Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Bookbub | Amazon Author Page | Pinterest | Soundcloud | Newsletter Sign Up

REVIEW

Irresistible in a Kilt by Anna Durand is #8 in the Hot Scots series. Admittedly, I am a series purist. I don't often jump in the middle, but with Irresistible in a Kilt, I will say I did not feel any backstory was missing. There are several instances where there are obvious crossovers, but the author does a good job of keeping the reader informed when it is necessary. 

Alex Thorne and Catriona MacTaggart have a turbulent past. Their relationship ended abruptly, and not on a positive note. When Alex hopes to rekindle their romance, Catriona makes him work hard for it. Their resistance, first Cat unsure she was willing to trust Alex in again, and then Alex realizing their intimacy may be too much for him, makes their journey that much more interesting. 

Alex and Cat's story is sweet, witty, and very steamy. Cat's inner thoughts on Alex's teaching prowess gives me a new way of seeing the act of college lectures. And the Highland Games the MacTaggart clan present gives the story a bit of old-world feel to it. 

I was gifted an early audio copy of Irresistible in a Kilt, which is my preferred way of experiencing a book. Narration is everything. I know that there has to be some sort of direction, but misinterpretation of text is one common issue I have. Shane East and Elle Newlands are excellent at this. The story flows very well with their performances. I would suggest Irresistible in a Kilt by Anna Durand to those who enjoy a modern romance. I think the Hot Scot series is the next on my list of ones to follow.

Battle Born For You by Layla Lochran

  

REVIEW

The first section of this book follows Zander. We meet him and his squad at a difficult time and follow Zander back home. Immediately I was drawn to Zander and his emotional journey. It's moving to experience a war vet try and pick up the pieces of his life, one I have personally done many times. When Zander meets Lily, his world is truly complete. 

Battle Born for You is part two of the Tell all Secrets series. It was at the point when Zander and Lily are first together that it was abundantly clear I was missing part of the story. At first, I was a bit jarred with this big fight they were having, without having experienced Lily's side of it. Honestly, I felt like she was overreacting a bit, and it was off-putting. It quickly became clear what the conflict was about, and I slowly began to see Lily's perspective. But I would highly suggest reading part one first so as not to find yourself in my situation. 

Zander and Lily both have deep emotional scars but support and love each other through their pain. As a couple, they are sweet and sexy, finding their happiness in each other. Battle Born for You has some profound moments and a few twists and turns you will not see coming. I suggest Zander and Lily's story for anyone who enjoys a contemporary romantic drama.

You Are Not Alone by Greer Hendricks & Sarah Pekkanen

ABOUT THE BOOK

THE INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER!

One of Newsweek's Most Anticipated Books of 2020

One of SheReads Most Anticipated Books of 2020

One of PopSugar's Most Anticipated Books of 2020

One of HelloGiggles’ Most Anticipated Books of 2020

One of Marie Claire’s Best Fiction by Women in 2020

One of Woman’s Day’s Best Fiction Books Coming Out in 2020

The electrifying #1 New York Times bestselling authors of THE WIFE BETWEEN US and AN ANONYMOUS GIRL return with a brand new novel of psychological suspense, YOU ARE NOT ALONE.

Shay Miller wants to find love, but it eludes her. She wants to be fulfilled, but her job is a dead end. She wants to belong, but her life is increasingly lonely.

Until Shay meets the Moore sisters. Cassandra and Jane live a life of glamorous perfection, and always get what they desire. When they invite Shay into their circle, everything seems to get better.

Shay would die for them to like her.

She may have to.

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REVIEW

What I liked: You Are Not Alone was extremely tense for me. The way the authors unfold the story kept me on the edge of my seat with worry and sympathy for Shay. I couldn't get to the end quickly enough.

What I didn't like: This is complex because what I didn't like did help fortify what was at stake for Shay. She finds herself in a destructive relationship, full of manipulation from some downright terrible people. Their actions made me feel sick. But without those acts, we could not have seen Shay's journey forward. Some of the situations were relatively over the top, and Shay was too trusting but, that added to the suspense. Ultimately, I still needed to find out where Shay wound up at the end.

Overall this book was engaging. I recommend You Are Not Alone for those who like a mystery to solve. 

Evernight by Donna Grant

ABOUT THE BOOK

New York Times bestselling author Donna Grant “skillfully melds history and legend” (RT Book Reviews) in a thrilling series – The Kindred.

To live in the light, they hunt in the dark…

Traumatized by the most devastating event imaginable, Synne has one thing on her mind: ridding the world of the Coven. The witches and their evil allies took away everything she held dear, and not even her beloved trees can quell the rising grief and darkness seeping into her soul. However, when she crosses paths with a sexy-as-sin Scotsman, her way of thinking changes, and she discovers things about herself even she wouldn’t have guessed.

Lachlan MacCullum, next in line to rule his clan, never expected to have his world turned upside down. But the moment he lays eyes on the gorgeous Hunter, he knows he will never be the same. In addition to making him feel things he never thought possible, she opens him to a world he’d nearly forgotten about. Now, he’s consumed by the need to help her. And win her heart.

With Sybbyl on the loose and out for domination, and another bone of the First Witch close at hand, reaching the Varroki and joining forces is paramount. Unfortunately, that’s easier said than done. Evil has a way of thwarting even the best-laid plans. At least they have each other. But for how long?

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REVIEW

Evernight is the first book in the Kindred series I have read. The author does an excellent job of describing recent events, so at no time did I feel lost. There was decent intrigue involved in the battle between Hunter and Witches. Once the action ramped up, I was completely engaged in Synne and Lachlan's story. 

I typically enjoy my paranormal romances in an urban setting, but for the battle waged in Evernight, the medieval Scottish background was fitting. It did take me a little while to get into this book. Perhaps reading prior novels would have helped attach me more to the events transpiring. Ultimately, it was worth a read, especially for those who are faithful fans of a medieval paranormal romance.

Wild, Wild Rake by Janna MacGregor

ABOUT THE BOOK

Wild, Wild Rake, the next sweeping, emotional, witty, and sharp romance in the Cavensham Heiresses series from beloved author Janna MacGregor.

Her first marriage was an epic fail.

Lady Avalon Warwyk never did love her husband. Arrogant, selfish, and cruel, it’s a blessing when she’s widowed and left to raise her son all by herself. Finally, Avalon can live freely and do the work she loves: helping fallen women become businesswomen. She’s lived these past ten years with no desire to remarry—that is, until Mr. Devan Farris comes to town.

Can he convince her to take another chance at happily ever after?

Devan Farris—charming vicar, reputed rake, and the brother of Avalon’s son’s guardian—is reluctantly sent to town to keep tabs on Avalon and her son. Devan wishes he didn’t have to meddle in her affairs; he’s not one to trod on a woman’s independent nature and keen sense of convictions. But she’ll have nothing to do with a vicar with a wild reputation—even though he’s never given his heart and body to another. If only he could find a way to show Avalon who he really is on the inside—a good, true soul looking for its other half. But how can prove that he wants to love and care for her. . .until death do they part?

Praise for the Cavensham Heiresses series

“Full-bodied romance…with intelligence and heart.”—New York Times bestselling author Cathy Maxwell

“Sparkling…MacGregor brings England’s Regency era to life.” —Publishers Weekly

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REVIEW

What I liked: The story came at a time I needed a lighthearted romance, and this undertook that well. Avalon and Devon are adorable together. 

Avalon's betrothal felt authentic to the time: an arranged marriage and a courtesan who becomes a mistress, then a life mate. Through all of that, it was refreshing to see Avalon develop a loose friendship rather than the standard jealousy and vindictiveness. Due to her marriage situation, the mission Avalon adapts is a worthy one. She is doing a very charitable thing by aiding those down on their luck. Avalon does not feel like the typical reserved, snotty, and stuffy lady of wealth found in that time frame, and this endeared her to me pretty quickly. Devon is splendid as the witty, charming vicar. He uses that appeal to gain favor, but not in a sleazy way. Not once did I feel Devon was insincere in his actions or words. 

What I didn't like: The romantic conflict felt pretty thin to me. It almost felt a little insulting to Avalon's intelligence, but I could be projecting. The situation did not ruin the experience for me, only a minor irritation. Ultimately, the resolution was satisfactory.

Wild Wild Rake is an incredibly enjoyable Historical Romance. I thoroughly enjoyed Avalon and Devon's tale.

The God Game by Danny Tobey

ABOUT THE BOOK

You are invited!

COme inside and play with G.O.D.

Bring your friends!

It;’s fun!

But remember the rules. Win and ALL YOUR DREAMS COME TRUE.™ Lose, you die!

With those words, Charlie and his friends enter the G.O.D. Game, a video game run by underground hackers and controlled by a mysterious AI that believes it’s God. Through their phone-screens and high-tech glasses, the teens’ realities blur with a virtual world of creeping vines, smoldering torches, runes, glyphs, gods, and mythical creatures. When they accomplish a mission, the game rewards them with expensive tech, revenge on high-school tormentors, and cash flowing from ATMs. Slaying a hydra and drawing a bloody pentagram as payment to a Greek god seem harmless at first. Fun even.

But then the threatening messages start. Worship me. Obey me. Complete a mission, however cruel, or the game reveals their secrets and crushes their dreams. Tasks that seemed harmless at first take on deadly consequences. Mysterious packages show up at their homes. Shadowy figures start following them, appearing around corners, attacking them in parking garages. Who else is playing this game, and how far will they go to win?

And what of the game’s first promise: win, win big, lose, you die? Dying in a virtual world doesn’t really mean death in real life—does it?

As Charlie and his friends try to find a way out of the game, they realize they’ve been manipulated into a bigger web they can’t escape: an AI that learned its cruelty from watching us.

God is always watching, and He says when the game is done.

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REVIEW

What I liked: The God Game by Danny Tobey is an intense ride. I was completely enthralled and on the edge of my seat for the duration of the story. The God Game could serve as an effective cautionary tale. With anonymity so easy to achieve in today's digital age, it is too easy to distance ourselves from one another. Insults, small bits of trickery, why should we care if we don't have to confront our victims? The God Game grasps that and blows it up, presenting the players a huge lesson in morality. The pit in my stomach grew as the participants are drawn further into the game, and it is more clear what is at stake for the players. 

What I didn't like: Not much. I did become a bit aggravated with some of the player's choices. Most of it was trivial things, and in the end, many did get resolved. And I am still unsure of the ending, but it does leave room for more stories later. With more questions answered, I may feel better about it.

The plot feels similar to Ready Player One, meets War Games with a bit of Ex Machina thrown in for good measure. Quite the combo in today's society. The God Game could be good for anyone looking for a digital age thriller.

Dark Alpha's Temptation: A Reaper Novel 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…

Carrying Death's orders is my sole duty. I've never had reason to question her, even if I disagreed. But Kyra's fierceness and willpower sheds light on my mission. She drives the darkness of my world away. The answers to the Others' goals lie in her past. For Kyra, I will risk going against Death's wishes. For her...I will battle the past and the future itself.

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REVIEW

In this latest installment of the Reaper series by Donna Grant, we follow Kyra and Dubhan's burgeoning romance. The backdrop is Ireland, amidst the backlash of the events that took place in the Dark Kings book Fever. Dark Alpha's Temptation is not a stand-alone novel. Many books lead to this point, and I fear a new reader would be lost if this is their first in Donna Grant's Dark World series. Prior publications are worth the experience, and one could go back a long way. I love a richly developed setting, and this series is one of my favorites in the urban fantasy/paranormal romance style. 

Dubhan is what you would expect out of a Reaper. Who can resist a sexy, immortal, justice dealing Irishman? Kyra is a courageous heroine to match. Together they are an attractive, charming couple. Overall I enjoyed their story. 

Random spoilery thoughts: This book gave us more information on the threat to Reaper allies, and the Reapers themselves, which I enjoyed getting. After the events in Fever, I was hoping for a theory I had to be confirmed here, which it was not. I could be wrong, but time will tell. Until then I will have to deal with the lingering sorrow and frustration. 

Lethal Nights A Brute Force Novel by Lora Leigh

ABOUT THE BOOK

#1 bestselling author Lora Leigh turns up the heat in her latest novel of high-stakes passion and persuasion featuring the men of Brute Force.

Ilya Dragonovich is no stranger to the dark side. As a safe-house owner for security agency Brute Force, Dragon knows that the battle line between good and evil runs through the heart of every man—and, sometimes, a beautiful woman…

Emma Jane Preston needs help. After her marriage crumbled, she believed she could get back to a normal, happy life. But now she needs the kind of protection that comes at a cost—one that only someone like Dragon can provide. But can Emma Jane trust this handsome, undercover operator to keep her safe when she is in danger of falling into the arms of the deeply seductive, fiery Dragon...and never letting go?

“Leigh’s books can scorch the ink off the page.”

—RT Book Reviews

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REVIEW

Ilya and Emma Jane experience a moment of attraction that they do not acknowledge. When Emma Jane's life is in danger, Ilya comes to ensure her safety. What follows is an entertaining, suspenseful, sexy romance. Ilya, as with all the males in the Brute Force series, is very Alpha. Emma Jane is well equipped to deal with his overprotective, demanding manner, and it never feels like Ilya is blatantly trying to control her. I enjoyed getting to know them throughout the conflict and as a couple.

Every Brute Force novel contains this curious undertone of the supernatural. Here it is represented in Ilya's dragon tattoo and how it relates to his heritage and his romance with Emma Jane. I enjoy this aspect of it. The author presents it without explanation, and it is up to the reader to decide how much validity to give to it. 

When the mood strikes me, I appreciate a sexy alpha male and his romance with a take no crap female. Lethal Nights is a worthy addition to the Brute Force saga.