ARC Reviews

31/01/2017

Forged In Desire, by Brenda Jackson. Contemporary Romance Release & ARC Review

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Forged in Desire, an all-new sexy standalone from Brenda Jackson is live!!!

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Forged in Desire by Brenda Jackson Publication Date: January 31st, 2017 Publisher: HQN Books Genre: Contemporary Romance

Strong enough to protect her. Bold enough to love her.
When good girl Margo Connelly becomes Lamar "Striker" Jennings's latest assignment, she knows she's in trouble. And not just because he's been hired to protect her from an underworld criminal. The reformed bad boy's appeal is breaching all her defenses, and as the threats against her increase, Margo isn't sure which is more dangerous: the gangster targeting her, or the far too alluring protector tempting her to let loose.
Though Striker's now living on the right side of the law, he's convinced his troubled past keeps Margo out of his league. But physical chemistry explodes into full-blown passion when they go on the run together. Surrendering to desire could be a deadly distraction—or finally prove that he's the only man qualified to keep her safe, and win her love.

Add to GoodReads: https://goo.gl/uYihxn

MY ARC REVIEW:

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Margo Connelly only did her civic duty to serve on a jury, now along with many others she is on a hit list.  An evil villain decided they must all die.  
Lamar Striker Jennings is given the job of protecting the niece of his boss.  The rest of the team will back him up.  
Like anyone who has their life disrupted our heroine is not happy.  Handing control over to someone else is not easy.  
Our hero is determined to protect her whether she likes it or not,  and it will be done his way.  
A real nail biter.  The assassin is ruthless and exceptionally good,  especially because he has inside knowledge.  
Lots of very sexy scenes that nearly melted my kindle,a marvellous story line and lots if danger.  
This is the start of a new series and I definitely want to read them all.  A very exciting read, I loved it. 

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Read Today!

Amazon Paperback: http://amzn.to/2il0hKX
Google Play: https://goo.gl/PmNqsV
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About the Author

Brenda Jackson, New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author of over 100 novels and novellas, was born in Jacksonville, Florida. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Jacksonville University. She married her high school sweetheart, Gerald, and they have two sons, Gerald Jr. and Brandon, ages thirty-six and thirty-four, respectively. She is an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Her professional writing career began in 1995 with the release of her first book, Tonight and Forever. Since then she has written over 100 titles, which includes a made-for-television movie by BET, One Special Moment as well as the movie, Truly Everlasting. She was a 2012 NAACP Image Award Nominee for Outstanding Literary Fiction for her book, A Silken Thread; and was named Romance Writers of America’s Nora Robert’s Lifetime Achievement Award recipient for 2012.

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If you would like to know more about Brenda Jackson, follow her here:

Twitter: @AuthorBJackson
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Heartbreak´s A B*tch, by S.M.Phillips.

Unlucky in love Emily Parker is about to turn thirty. The big three-0!
Yet, the dream house, perfect husband and cute little children are nowhere to be seen; a little like her sex life.
Instead, most nights consist of a dine in for one, a few bottles of wine and the odd fumble with Vinnie the Vibrator, if she's lucky; so long as she has remembered to stock up on the batteries.
Is this now her life?
It's a far cry from where she imagined it would be when she reached her prime.
Where did it all go wrong? Even the big wide world of online dating isn't getting her anywhere, fast.
Right now, the only thing that Emily knows, is that Heartbreak's a bitch!







S.M Phillips is a fun loving mum from Manchester. When she’s not busy writing, you’ll most likely find her head buried deep inside her kindle with a cup of coffee in hand. Talk to her when she’s reading and things could get pretty colourful, pretty fast, just ask her Hubby.
She is a lover of chocolate, especially if it has peanut butter inside and loves a good cocktail or two. She often wonders if she should spend more time buying shoes, but then she remembers her never ending TBR list and realises that money can be spent on more important things… Books.

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Ambassador´s Bride (Celestial Mates Series) by C.J.Scarlett. Dystopian/Sci-Fi Romance.


http://amzn.to/2jO2oeZ
Instafreebie link: https://www.instafreebie.com/free/ZiPAK
Fire Princess - Free Prequel

In a dystopian future where humans have foolishly squandered Earth’s natural resources, the few remaining people are becoming desperate. Crowded in huge underground cities, they’ve finally come to the end of the line and they must decide whether or not they will trade the only valuable resource Earth has left... Women. Being the daughter of a wealthy diplomat, Rose is blissfully ignorant of how the less fortunate live. Desperate to escape to a planet where she can enjoy the sun on her face and swim in clear unpolluted oceans, she vows to make herself the first bride to be mated to off-worlders. When the Krylon delegation arrives, she realizes that in addition to being good stewards of their planet, eager for female companionship, and polite to a fault, the Krylon males are also drop dead gorgeous. Unfortunately, Earth’s population is vehemently opposed to the galactic mate’s treaty... will Rose and her soon to be Hot Alien Husband be able to make their escape from Earth?

 

Excerpt 1
 “Barbarians. You were locked away this whole time? How could they…” Turning to gather up a small throw, he made a frustrated trilling noise. “It does not matter. You are here, safe, and from this moment forward, you are mine.”

 

Excerpt 2
 “Do you mind if I ask about the pressing of lips together. What is this? Why is it important?” Rose bit her bottom lip, holding back another grin. He was learning to read her facial expressions. “Would you like me to show you?” Speechless, he nodded. Turning to her friend, she pressed her lips to the other woman’s forehead. “This is the gesture for showing affection to children.” “It is unusual.” Rose pressed her lips to her friend’s cheek. “This is a traditional kiss for close friends, particularly when we have been separated from one another.” Before he could speak, her friend pulled her close and pressed her lips against Rose’s lips quickly before pulling back. She made a small happy sound and smiled mischievously. “That is the one that shows romantic interest on our world.” Rose laughed. “She’s being naughty. Most of us don’t kiss other women that way.”

   
 ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

As a mother of 16 cats and 1 very kooky dog, I am a writer with an incredible support team! As you can imagine, living with my fur family on 5 acres in rural southwest Washington there is never a dull moment. I enjoy taking the scenery, the wildlife, the weather, the adventures and turning them into my literary expose. Each element of my life is lived out in my romantic fiction. I believe in each writer there is a fantasy thrashing it’s way out in every life circumstance. Releasing that inner animal is what I live my life for. It goes without saying that there's always a happily-ever-after for my characters, even if there are a few road bumps along the way. I thank you for joining me in this incredible journey of fun and love during it’s most adventure seeking antics. Enjoy and feel free to contact me by email/facebook/instagram anytime. I enjoy hearing from my friends in the book world and will look forward to hearing from you too! Like my Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorCJScarlett/ Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/author_c.j.scarlett/
 
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Acer (No Prisoners MC Romance) by Lilly Atlas. MC Romance Release, Excerpt & $25 G.C.Giveaway.

Title: Acer
Series: No Prisoners MC Romance
Author: Lilly Atlas
Genre:  MC Romance
Release Date: January 31, 2017
After one unforgettable night with a dangerous outlaw, Fia knows she must limit contact with the kind of man who could never fit in her wealthy circle. Unfortunately, she can't keep their brief but passionate encounter far from her thoughts. When she seeks him out for reasons unrelated to their chemistry, the worst happens, and Fia is attacked by a madman. With her life turned upside down, she seeks help from the one person she can’t get out of her mind.
Betrayed by someone he should have been able to trust above all, Acer spends the next two decades of his life avoiding entanglements that have any chance of ending with a knife in his back. The MC life provides a safe way to have personal connections and loyalty due to its simple rule: betray the club and punishment will be severe. Still, he keeps a large part of himself locked away inside, hidden even from his MC brothers. When the woman who’s been messing with his head for months reappears in his life needing sanctuary, Acer jumps to her aid. He’s committed to help her reclaim her life, but determined to keep her at arms-length in the process. 
As Acer and Fia fight their growing feelings, his club is in danger from a new and different kind of enemy. Will his refusal to put his full trust in anyone, including the woman he’s falling for, end up destroying more than betrayal ever could?
“This book is everything and more then what I expected. Lilly Atlas is such an amazingly talented author. She brings you into this world making you feel as if you are right there in the midst of the No Prisoners.” ~Sister Spot Book Blog

Chapter 1


Fia stepped into the ballroom and smoothed an unsteady palm down the front of her deep purple dress. She pasted what was probably an overly syrupy smile on her face and nodded at the pompous son of a California State Senator who raised a hand in greeting as she approached. It wouldn’t serve her well to wear her anger on the outside, so she put years of practice and grooming to good use and played the rich, friendly, tolerant-of-jerks socialite.
The senator’s son abandoned his conversation with a politician whose name she couldn’t recall and strode toward her, a smug, women-love-me-for-my-money-and-looks smile on his face. Fia resisted the urge to roll her eyes. Gordon had been pursuing her for a while now, and she had less than zero interest in the man who thought he was God’s special gift to females everywhere.
He gripped her hand in a limp hold and drew it to his lips, kissing her knuckles in an old-world gesture. “Good evening, Serafina. I must say, you look lovely tonight.”
She winced. Strike one. She hated her full name. It was too pretentious, too formal, too…celestial. “Hello, Gordon. You’re looking very handsome yourself, and please, I much prefer to be called Fia.”
He wrinkled his perfect nose. “I don’t know why you insist on people calling you by that foolish nickname. Serafina is a lovely name, and you should be proud to have it.” Still holding her hand, he drew her out on the dance floor.
It took every ounce of restraint she possessed to avoid ripping her hand from his feeble hold. Arrogant jerk didn’t even have the decency to ask if she’d like to dance with him. No, he just assumed any woman would be honored to have the privilege of being lead around the floor by his greatness.
Sure, his five-hundred-dollar haircut had each platinum strand coiffed in a perfect arrangement, and his manicured nails were impeccable, but the soft hands they adorned did nothing for her as a woman. A man needed a few calluses. Nothing felt better against her skin than the subtle scrape of a man’s rough hands. Gordon’s metaphorically turned up nose and literal lack of work ethic didn’t exactly get her motor revving either. Some things a thousand-watt smile and striking deep green eyes just couldn’t overcome.
She hated these events. If rich people actually donated as much money to the charities as they spent on the balls and banquets, the unfortunate would be much more fortunate. But, tonight’s charade was for a cause she supported whole-heartedly, so she was here. And with no desire to embarrass herself or her family, she’d behave. Even if that meant enduring a dance with a man who viewed himself as an angel sent to earth for the sake of the fairer sex. Fia preferred her angels with a bit of a crooked halo. Her own was just a bit off kilter.
Today had been a long day full of frustrations and failures. What she really wanted was peace, quiet, and a warm bath overflowing with bubbles. Oh, and wine, lots of wine. But she wanted to show her support for the cause, so her wishes would all have to wait a few more hours.
Once a year, at a different one of his prestigious hotels, Reginald Wellington held a large gala to raise money for state penitentiaries in whichever state the event was held. Money raised was used to provide counseling services to inmates in that state’s prison system.
When Fia was in college, she had friend who ran into some trouble with the law and spent a year in jail. After her release, she remained on a straight path and was now a successful defense attorney, but her time in prison had taken a large psychological toll, and Fia had watched her friend struggle with a consuming depression for years.
This event meant something to her, and with her own career in jeopardy, it gave her something to focus on besides her drama. She had some significant life-decisions to make, and no clue which direction she should take.
With a sigh, she left her head and allowed Gordon to draw her into his embrace if only to avoid an uncomfortable scene. Conscious of keeping a bit of distance between their bodies, she swayed with him to the music.
Too bad he couldn’t take a hint.
He leaned down and brushed his nose along the curve of her neck. “You smell lovely, Serafina.”
She recoiled from his unwanted touch. Did the man know any complimentary words besides lovely? “Fia,” she ground out between clenched teeth.
As though she were a child who said something cute, he chuckled against her ear, and she pulled her head farther back, narrowing her eyes at him. He really was handsome, in a straight-off-of-a-magazine-cologne-advertisement way. He was tall and wore a designer suit well. Unfortunately, she’d seen him at the country club, and what lie under the suit could only be described as soft. He was a man who spent his time indoors, behind a desk.
Not her type.
“Okay, fine, Fia.”
“Thank you.”
While they danced a familiar waltz all society girls learned by age ten, Gordon rambled on about his ambitions to assume his father’s seat in the senate, and she tuned him out, instead letting her gaze drift around the room. After scanning past several acquaintances, her focus landed on a man, standing in the corner with a scowl on his face as he listened to an older gentleman speak.
She couldn’t quite put her finger on what it was about the man that captured her attention. At first glance, he looked similar to many of the other males in the room, expensive tuxedo, expertly styled dark blonde hair, flawless facial features. Then he shifted his gaze and his eyes locked with hers. The energy flowing form him was almost palpable, like that of a caged tiger seconds away from attempting escape. She shivered. If all that power was unleashed, the effects could be devastating.
Gordon twirled them and Fia lost sight of the intriguing eye candy.
As they turned, Gordon let out a surprising and unrefined curse. “Shit, there he is.” He shook his head. “And I wagered this would be the year he finally quit turning up here and upsetting his family.”
Fia drew back and looked up at him. “Who are you talking about?”
He spun her a second time so they both faced the very man she’d been studying, only he wasn’t in the same spot he’d been in seconds before. The back of his head drew farther away as he trailed after the man he’d been speaking with.
“See the blonde guy, the one walking out of the room?”
“Yes, I see him, who is he?”
“That’s Adam Wellington.”
Her jaw dropped and Gordon chuckled. She knew the name well, at least the rumors surrounding it. Her father and Adam’s had been friends for the past ten years. Reginald Wellington owned this and many luxury hotels around the world.
Adam was a bit of an urban society legend. She never laid eyes on the man, but she’d always been curious as to whether the tales were accurate. Story was, he’d dropped out of society to join a gang after a friend of his went to prison for assault.
While it was enthralling, Fia wasn’t stupid enough to believe the story was that simple. It took guts to leave the fold. The idea of throwing all this aside, all these fluffy parties and endless senseless conversations for a life without rules was appealing. Not that she’d ever be daring enough to achieve such a thing herself, but her curiosity about the man who did was definitely piqued.
“He comes to this one charity event every year. No one knows why.” Gordon went on, his tone almost mocking. “Some say he’s planning something. Biding his time until he can get back at everyone he blames for his low status in life now.”
Fia rolled her eyes. “That’s the stupidest thing I’ve ever heard.”
The man in question turned, meeting her gaze as though he heard her from fifty feet away. Like a deer caught in blinding headlights, she froze under his attention. Why was it this particular event he attended each year? What was his connection to this charity? Had he been in prison? His eyes smoldered with a mixture of anger, frustration and…could that be desire?
As though his attention had been physical instead of visual, her nipples tightened in the confines of her bra. Damn, he gave off some powerful sexual energy.
A ripple of nervous energy ran its way up her spine and her stomach fluttered. She tore her gaze away and stepped back from Gordon as the song ended. “Thank you for the dance, Gordon. Please excuse me, I’m going to get some air.”
“Would you like me to join you, Serafina?” His tone suggested she’d be getting more than air if he escorted her.
Strike three, you’re out Gordy. She tried not to show her revulsion.
Much as he’d done moments ago, she hovered close to his ear. “No, Gordon, I’d like a moment alone. And if I have to tell you to call me Fia again, I’ll be doing so while you’re doubled over with my knee against your balls,” she whispered.
She turned and walked away from a slack-jawed Gordon, heading in the opposite direction of the mysterious Adam Wellington.
Whoops. So much for acting like a lady.
 

Lilly Atlas is a contemporary romance author, proud Navy wife, and mother of two spunky girls. By day she works as a physical therapist for a hospital in Virginia. Lilly is an avid romance reader, and expects her Kindle to beg for mercy every time she downloads a new eBook. Thankfully, it hasn’t happened yet, and she can often be found absorbed in a good book.

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