Mistaken by Fate by Katee Robert

The man she should want, or the man she craves...
Fashion designer Ridley Ethridge thinks she's found the perfect, stable sort of guy in her childhood friend Will Reaver. With seduction in her sights, she arranges to rock Will's world at an exclusive club that caters to those with adventurous and erotic appetites. What happens next is both intense and satisfying — until Ridley's blindfold comes off to reveal Will's twin brother. The same twin who broke her heart eight years ago.
Former soldier Garrett Reaver hasn't ever gotten Ridley out of his system. And now that she's before him in all her submissive glory? He'll be damned before he lets someone else have her, especially his brother. Because Garrett and Ridley have some seriously unfinished business to take care of, and it starts now. And this time, he'll show Ridley how exquisite a relationship with him could be ... if their past doesn't catch up to them first.

Ridley wants Will, in part because he's the polar opposite of Garrett, so she plans to surprise him at Serve but she surprises herself and Garrett instead. Garrett is determined to win her over and spend more time with her, while Ridley is determined to have nothing to do with him but she can't deny the attraction. Can they have a happier ending than the first time round?

Another sexy addition to the Serve series and the first from Katee Robert - and what a start to the series from her. Although it would be hard to beat Oliver (from the Exposed by Fate) as my favourite {Sorry, Katee}, Garrett is definitely a close contender - although I'm looking forward to getting to know Will better in the next book. Ridley and Garrett have amazing chemistry and were clearly meant to be together, despite the bumpy start they had.

I love Robert's writing and this book is no different. I've been in a bit of a reading funk lately and authors like Katee Robert are what pulls me out of it.

I'm really liking the influx of BDSM books at the moment, and this series is a great addition. I recommend the series, starting with the first two, Owned by Fate and Exposed by Fate.


Amazon UK: Mistaken by Fate

Queen of Wands by Katee Robert

When Jenny O'Keirna gets a chance to slip her older brother, the new king of Hansarda's, leash, she jumps at it, even if it means playing babysitter to a too-smart-for-his-own-good inventor. She's not expecting the attraction that sparks between them — or that Sanctify is just as desperate to take him for their own.

Never in Mac Flannery's wildest dreams did he imagine Jenny would be the one sent for him. He sees beyond the mad grin the sexy princess of Hansarda presents to the world, and that combination of vulnerability and wicked humor is a siren call he can't resist.

But Sanctify is always three steps ahead of them. On the run — and unable to keep their hands off each other — Jenny and Mac devise an insane plan: kidnap the leader of Sanctify, and stop this war once and for all. Unfortunately, they've just played right into his hands...

Jenny needs a break from her family and it comes in the shape of Mac. Instead of what should be a simple job, they end up on the run from Sanctify with their lives at risk at every step. The insta-attraction between the two doesn't help matters.

I really enjoyed the first two stories in this series and this one was no different. Jenny is Boone's little sister and Mac works for Gerard inventing gadgets for use in the war against Sanctify - I don't remember meeting Mac before and it seems Jenny may have been in Queen of Swords (it's been a while since I read it, sorry).

I liked Jenny a lot - she had a shit life growing up and now her twisted brother is dead, she wants to enjoy herself. She's total badass, can hold her own and isn't afraid to stand up to Ophelia (who I don't remember being as bitchy in her book, but like I said it's been a while since I read it so I may be wrong). Mac was fun but I didn't like him as much as Jenny - for me, this was really her book with him as a bit part.

Since my reading of The High Priestess, I've read a lot more by Katee Robert and she's fast becoming one of my favourite authors and one who I constantly check on for new releases. For this reason, I will probably always highly recommend all her books to any of my readers.


Book Depository: Queen of Wands
Amazon UK: Queen of Wands

Owned by Fate and Exposed by Fate by Tessa Bailey

Her mind rejects his world. But her body knows its master.

Journalist Caroline Preston arrives at Serve, New York City’s hottest BDSM club, with one goal — to hate it. If her brother wasn't trying to turn the family's respectable financial magazine into a publication that features "lifestyle" pieces for the wealthy and adventurous, she wouldn't even be there, trying to write an article about a world she doesn't understand. But then she sees him.

Jonah Briggs doesn't leave his post for just anyone. As the owner of the club, his sole purpose is to ensure that his clientele get everything they need, but when he sees Caroline, his only thought is what he wants — to dominate the sexy little reporter and give the most exquisite pleasure she's ever experienced.

Caroline has no intention of entering that particular lion's den — not with her family's reputation at stake — no matter how dark, sexy, and complex the lion in question may be. But with every encounter, she craves more, and with every slide of his lips, she realises Jonah might just be the man to break down all her defenses ... if she'll let him.

Caroline only intends to check out Serve for the new merger that her brother proposed, she didn't count on actually finding the club, or Jonah, a turn on. She keeps going back to Jonah, and she questions herself every time she does. But she has a family name to keep up, and to do so she can't possibly write the club in a good light - can she? But not doing so could lose her Jonah and her new found sexualconfidence.

Jonah is very dominant and a massive turn on - very well written. And Caroline comes across exactly as she should, a bit stuck up and looking down her nose at the BDSM scene without knowing about it ... until she gets drawn in and realises it's just what she needs.

I really enjoyed the opening for this new series and am looking forward to more from all authors.


Amazon UK: Owned By Fate

He'll train her to lure another man. She'll lure him instead.

When interior designer Eliza Ballas accompanies a friend to New York's premier BDSM club, she's taken aback by the sheer want that overruns her body — especially when a sexy Brit assumes Eliza is adept at dark, sensual arts. If she's going to play, she'll need an erotic education, and she knows just the man to teach her how to submit ...

Oliver Preston isn't one to turn down pleasure, but Eliza's his sister's best friend, and he's torn between a sense of duty and his rock-hard need to find out if she tastes as delicious as he's dreamed. Unable to handle the thought of another man owning her body, he draws Eliza deep into his world of exquisite pain and pleasure. He has three lessons to instruct her. Three lessons to drive them both to the brink of ecstasy. And three lessons before he must give her to another man ... if he doesn't lose himself first.

Eliza may be in too deep when she goes to Serve and pretends to know more than she does, not wanting to come across as an amateur. She doesn't expect Oliver to offer to teach her the ropes before she hooks up with a stranger. Neither of them expect to like the lessons so much that they don't want them to end.

Holy. Fricking. Hotness. Batman!! This sequel to Owned by Fate is so much ... more ... than the first. As hot and dominant and ... hot that Jonah was, Oliver is that much hotter, that much more dominant and so much sex that I wanted to crawl right in my Kindle with him and make him all mine. Eliza is sweet and naive to begin with but she soon finds confidence in her sexuality and, as much as it shocks her, finds what has been missing from her life - I would have been more than happy to also make her mine.

This is the 2nd, and last for a while at least, from Tessa Bailey. And I'm looking forward to the next installment from Katee Robert.


Amazon UK: Exposed by Fate

Vincent by D B Reynolds

Sinaloa, Mexico ... haunting deserts, hot nights, and vampires, who've been there for hundreds of years, watching from the shadows, playing their games, manipulating humans, and surviving at any cost.

Vincent Kuxim, powerful and charismatic, was made vampire by an ambitious leader looking for soldiers to pave his way to the rule of all Mexico. But more than a century later, Vincent's Sire is looking over his shoulder as Vincent closes in for the kill, ready to claim the title Lord of Mexico for himself.

Lana Arnold is a bounty hunter, smart, beautiful, and determined to chart her own future. So when the most powerful vampire lord in all of North America enlists her help in tracking down a very old and elusive bloodsucker, Lana sees nothing but opportunity. There's only one catch. The client wants her to take Vincent — a vampire she neither knows nor trusts — along on her hunt. Then again, maybe it's herself she doesn't trust, because Vincent Kuxim is sex walking in a pair of tight black jeans.

Thrown together by circumstance, Vincent and Lana soon find themselves battling an evil they didn't know existed in a fight that makes Vincent all the more determined to destroy his Sire, seize Mexico for himself ... and keep Lana by his side forever.

Lana has been hired by Raphael to find an old vampire in Mexico with the help of Vincent, the Lord of Mexico's lieutenant. On the way to track the guy down, Vincent gets kidnapped and they end up getting caught up in another case that cements Vincent's decision to overthrow the current Lord of Mexico.

Oh Vincent, Vincent, Vincent .... I don't know how Reynolds does it but she seems to write sexier vamps with every book (although it'll be heard to overthrow Duncan and Rajmund). Vincent is sexy and knows it and he's determined to get Lana to know it too, which she does - she just refuses to acknowledge it. But they're thrown together and things lead to other things so of course sexy things happen - very sexy things!

I really do enjoy this series (even though I seem to be the only reader that doesn't like the main couple) and I like the tangent the story is going on. For the last few books there's been a slow progression of the upcoming war with the European vampires and it seems it's almost upon us. This is definitely a series I'd recommend, the vampires are alpha and powerful.


Amazon UK: Vincent

Otherworld Nights by Kelley Armstrong

This short story collection will include many brand-new tales and others only previously available on Kelley Armstrong's website. Most of the stories will feature the werewolves of the Otherworld, Elena and Clay, Jeremy, Karl and other members of the American Pack. These are some of Kelley Armstrong's best-loved and most enduring characters, from bestselling books such as Bitten, Stolen and Frostbitten.

Demonology - Adam's mother discovers what he is
Stalked - Clay/Elena honeymoon story from "My Big Fat Supernatural Honeymoon"
Hidden - SubPress 2012 Elena/Clay novella
Twilight - a Cass story from "Many Bloody Returns"
Chivalrous - Reese's backstory from SubPress's long sold-out "Tales of Dark Fantasy 2"
Lucifer's Daughter - Hope/Karl story from "Blood Lite II: Overbite"
From Russia with Love - Elena bonus story included with hardcover of "Thirteen"
Vanishing Act - brand-new Savannah/Adam novella set after "Thirteen"

This is an anthology of previously released Otherworld shorts with one new one.

Demonology is the story of how Adam's mother, Talia, meets Robert and dscovers what Adam's real heritage is. I would've liked to read how RObert broke it to Talia but what we get is the lead up to her first appointment with Robert and running when she discovers his specialty but then facing the facts and finally contacting him again. I love tiny Adam - he's adorable.

Stalked follows Clay and Elena on their honeymoon that gets interrupted by a mutt following Elena while Clay tries to stop her from discovering it. I always love Clay and Elena stories, Bitten was the book that got me into the series so the werewolves will always be my favourite.

Hidden is another Clay and Elena story, they want to give the twins a normal christmas but it's ruined by a mutt. I already reviewed this when it was released - go here.

Twilight is Cassandra's story. Vampires don't need to kill to feed except on the anniversary of the date they turned into a vampire, this tells the story of one of Cassandra's searches for the right person.

Chivalrous finally tells us the story of why Reese fled Australia. I was dying to read this but didn't buy the anthology it was in so I was so happy that it was in here. I like Reese and really enjoyed this look into his background.

Lucifer's Daughter tells of Hope and Karl spending what should be a nice evening in a museum but quickly goes downhill when a lesser demon tried to suck up to Hope to get on her father's good side.

From Russia with Love was originally in the back of 13 and is just a very short tale of the official Alpha handover from Jeremy to Elena.

Vanishing Act is the new story focusing on Savannah and Adam following the events of 13. They're investigating a demon raising gone badly while trying to work out the status of their relationship. The short also has a bit of a tie in to the two young adult series and the genetic modification of supernaturals.


I love all the things by Kelley Armstrong and this was no different. And the good part was that a few of these were new to me even though they were all reprints except Vanishing Act.


Book Depository: Otherworld Nights
Amazon UK: Otherworld Nights

Ocean's Edge by Denise Townsend

In the search for justice, she could find love and maybe a little magic

In the year since the attack that nearly killed her, Rachel has worked hard to recover despite the fact her assailant was never caught. Countless hours of self-defense training have rebuilt enough courage to approach the sea that spit her out like a piece of meat. Complete healing? Not even close.

Then Conleth, an honest-to-god selkie, emerges from the sea, offering a magical friendship that begins to unearth the carefree woman she used to be.

The first time Rachel's tiny foot connected with his balls, Jake cheered from his foetal position on the floor of his dojo. As he's coached this incredibly brave woman, he's kept to himself the growing feelings he knows she'd reject. But that hasn't stopped him from privately digging for the evidence to reopen her cold case file.

With Conleth's gentle guidance, Rachel begins to rediscover the part of herself who isn't afraid to love. Until a rose appears on her doorstep along with a cruel reminder that her attacker is still tracking her every move.

Rachel moved to her dream town but after being attacked she's found it hard to trust and has become a bit of a hermit. Conleth, feeling her pain, comes to help her regain her trust in men and also realise she can love but Rachel being seen with another man brings her attacker back out of the woodwork.

I've liked the Selkie books from Townsend so far and this one is no different. They always follow the same premise but aren't so alike to one another that it drags.

One thing I'd say about this book is that I figured out who the attacker was pretty early on and I don't know if it was meant to be obvious or if I'm just a super sleuth!! (I'm really not a super sleuth).

The books are always pretty short but Townsend does a good job of writing the character back stories. You really get into Rachel's head space because you can imagine how horrible it must be to have to live in the same town you got attacked in with your attacker and having the local police brush your case under the rug. All it took was for Conleth to help build her confidence back up so she wasn't afraid to leave the house anymore and even think about having a relationship.

I'd definitely recommend this series to anyone on the lookout for a new read.


Amazon UK: Ocean's Edge

Soulless by Gail Carriger

Alexia Tarabotti is labouring under a great many social tribulations.

First, she has no soul. Second, she's a spinster whose father is both Italian and dead. Third, she was rudely attacked by a vampire, breaking all standards of social etiquette.

Where to go from there? From bad to worse apparently, for Alexia accidentally kills the vampire - and then the appalling Lord Maccon (loud, messy, gorgeous, and werewolf) is sent by Queen Victoria to investigate.

With unexpected vampires appearing and expected vampires disappearing, everyone seems to believe Alexia responsible. Can she figure out what is actually happening to London's high society? Will her soulless ability to negate supernatural powers prove useful or just plain embarrassing? Finally, who is the real enemy, and do they have treacle tart?

Alexia is soulless and can therefore sort of suck the powers from supernaturals. This makes her a welcome companion for some but thing to fear for others. She's blamed for the missing supernaturals and must work with Lord Maccon to clear her name.

I'm not the biggest fan of books set in olden times, I tend to find them a bit boring but I quite enjoyed this - although I hate that cover, what the hell is she doing? Is she supposed to be walking or standing still? Either way, it looks damned uncomfortable.

As I've come to expect from a lot of books set in this era, the action is a bit slow coming and lack lustre but the story itself is good enough to make up for it. Alexia is fairly likeable but also a bit annoying and uppity while Maccon is your typical old-fashioned alpha male.

I'll probably read some more of the series - I did try the Finishing School series, set in the same world, but I couldn't finish the first book.


Book Depository: Soulless
Amazon UK: Soulless

Tempting Her Fake Fiancé by Julie Particka

A proposition leads to compromising positions ...
Journalist Stasia Grant needs a hero. Specifically one who will help her humiliate her ex-husband after he publicly left her for another woman. In Vegas for the biggest interview of her career, Stasia is grappling with a broken heart, her cheating ex (and the other woman), and a serious need for revenge. Her salvation comes from the most unlikely place charming and sexy-as-all-get-out action star Evan Stone.
After spending his life playing a superhero, Evan has a plan for delicious satisfaction: a fake, week-long engagement. He'll not only show Stasia's ex what he's missing but gain some sympathetic publicity to turn around his image as a player. It's win-win for them both. But neither expected the sizzling chemistry that erupts whenever they're together. Stepping out for the paparazzi, Stasia and Evan are about to pull off the performance of a lifetime ... but will they fall for their own con?

Anastasia (or Stasia) was dumped publicly and humiliatingly by her husband for another woman. She's going to the interview of a lifetime which her husband also happens to be going to - after she got him the job. When she breaks down in her interview with Evan Stone, he makes a deal - pretend to be engaged to him for the week long event. It'll help her exact revenge on her ex and it'll help his image. They never really expected to have chemistry and inevitably fall for each other.

I had such a strong Chris Evans feel from the Evan Stone character, so much so that as I was writing my first paragraph there I almost typed Chris Evans. I'm fairly certain that he's the basis of the character, he definitely gives off a strong vibe - which is no way a bad thing and I don't want it to seem like I'm saying it is, Chris Evans is an totally loveable guy and the likeness isn't too strong that you feel she's just written Chris Evans into the book. I think I felt it so much because I've been watching a lot of Chris Evans lately ..... like, a LOT!! Of course, this makes him extremely likeable and I'd definitely read more of him if I was offered.

I wasn't entirely sure I'd like Stasia from reading the blurb, I was worried she'd be a bit whiny and "Oh, woe is me", and that I'd instantly hate her. Fortunately I didn't feel that way. She's actually a very likeable character who is hurt over her ex husbands actions and wants revenge, as soon as she realises she wants revenge it's all that's on her mind. She almost talks herself out of her feelings for Evan because of her want for revenge but eventually realises she shouldn't let her anger take over her life.

A feel good story about an every day woman hooking up with a big Hollywood star and realising they've got feelings for one another. The story is short but long enough to give a back story to both characters and paces well so you don't feel anything's too rushed.

A big recommendation from me.


Amazon UK: Tempting Her Fake Fiancé
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Sea of Shadows by Kelley Armstrong

They hear the spirits. They must obey.

In the Forest of the Dead, where the empire's worst criminals are exiled, twin sisters Moria and Ashyn are charged with a dangerous task. For they are the Keeper and the Seeker, and each year they must quiet the enraged souls of the damned.

Only this year, the souls will not be quieted.

Ambushed by an ancient evil, Moria and Ashyn must race to warn the empire of a terrifying threat. Accompanied by a dashing thief and a warrior with a dark history, the sisters battle their way across a wasteland filled with reawakened monsters of legend. But there are more sinister enemies waiting for them at court - and a secret that will alter the balance of their world forever.

The first volume in the Age of Legends trilogy, Sea of Shadows is a thrilling dark fantasy where evil hides in every shadow and the deadliest monsters of all come in human form...

Moria and Ashyn are the Keeper and the Seeker of the Forest of the Dead. Criminals get sent into the Forest and if they survive, they're told they get to be placed back in society - no one ever survives. The Seeker and the Keeper are tasked with dealing with the souls of the dead so they don't become evil spirits. This is Ashyn's first solo journey as the Seeker and it doesn't go to plan - turns out there's more in the forest than the souls of the dead. After their town gets attacked, Ashyn and Moria are separated and in finding one another discover something is very wrong.

With Kelley's Otherworld series at an end, she's introducing some new stuff. No new adult series as yet but this is her new YA/New Adult series (I don't know the difference between the two - genres aren't my strong point). Moria and Ashyn are both very different and likeable in their own ways.

Moria is strong and kick ass, she's not afraid to stand her ground and will fight anything to protect her family and her town. Ashyn is quiet and calm, the complete opposite of Moria and that's why they work so well together. They counter each other and are better for it.

I love Kelley's writing as anyone who has read my reviews before will know but sadly this one fell a bit short with me, I still liked it and will continue with the series but it was quite slow going and hard to pick up once it was put down - which is very unlike all Kelley books for me. I usually find them unputdownable. I would still recommend this to any YA Fantasy fans but if you're a Kelley fan it is quite unlike her other books so don't go into this expecting another Darkest Powers or Darkness Rising.


Book Depository: Sea of Shadows
Amazon UK: Sea of Shadows

Cursed by Angela Addams

Wherever there's a lying, cheating scumbag who's broken a woman's heart, Vengeance Dealer Darcy Wells is there. So what if she isn't the most skilled witch around? She's only using one spell, which leaves the hapless male suffering tormenting lust for one woman. Her.

The beautiful part? This curse comes equipped with a blinding agent, allowing her a clean getaway. Unrequited lust, coming right up! As far as Darcy is concerned, it's justice served. Her next target: Raven Glock, rock band bassist and drop-dead-gorgeous sex god.

When Raven lays eyes on the luscious Darcy, he gives her what he promises all the starry-eyed groupies who toss their panties at him — one unforgettable night in his bed. Sex with Darcy is so epic that he forgets his cardinal rule: to get her out before morning.

At the crack of sunrise, Darcy serves Raven a face full of cursed ash. But something goes horribly wrong ... and she finds herself magically tethered to one pissed-off werewolf.

Worse, breaking the spell could cost her everything ... maybe even her life.

Darcy does one thing - she curses guys that women feel have done them wrong. Next on her list is Raven - who happens to be a werewolf. After a night of amazing sex, Darcy does her thing but this one feels different and she needs to reverse it - if it's possible.

Very short but hot read from Addams. Darcy is a bit naive and slightly gullible and Raven is all alpha-male and growly. There's chemistry and it's sizzling - the story isn't great but I don't know if it's because there wasn't time to embellish what with this being a novella or if it's just not that great a story to tell.

The thing I find with a lot of these short, sexy stories is that I can't read some of the dialogue without snorting 'cos I just find it so funny - and I don't think it's meant to be funny. Sexy talk always comes across as so corny and unbelievable to me and it actually does put me off a story slightly when I have to read a lot of it - which there is in this.


Amazon UK: Cursed

Meeting His Match by Katee Robert

When New York matchmaker Addison St. Claire is tasked with matching her best friend's new brother-in-law, she almost refuses. But the sexy southern CEO turns out to be a challenge she can't resist, because if anyone needs to meet his soul mate, it's this man. And if matching him with someone else removes the temptation of being near him? Even better.

The last thing Caine McNeill needs is a matchmaker — especially a gorgeous redhead who spouts nonsense about soul mates, critiques what he drives and how he dresses, buys him a dog, and pesters him about a million little things he couldn't care less about. It's a crying shame he has to keep his hands off because chemistry like what's flaring between them ought to be explored. Thoroughly.

And so the battle begins. Addison is determined to stick to her plan of setting him up on dates with other women, and Caine is equally determined to ignore these women and seduce her.

Addison is a matchmaker that believes in soul mates, and she believes she's had and lost her one and only. Caine is a CEO that doesn't have time for other activities, including having a relationship but his sister-in-law feels he needs one so sets Addison on him. But there's attraction between Addison and Caine that Addison refuses to acknowledge which only makes Caine more determined to follow it through..

Caine and Addison are actually tied into the Wedding Dare series through Katee's book in that - Caine is Brock's brother and Regan's brother-in-law, and Addison is Regan's best friend. I liked Addison to a point - her unmoving devotion to someone only having one soul mate is annoying. Because despite her attraction to Caine, she refuses to believe there may be a future together for them. I liked Caine slightly more than Addison, he was willing to work to prove to her that there was something worth chasing between them.

I really like Katee as an author and have so far, I believe, read all her releases and will continue to do so as long as she keeps writing them.


Amazon UK: Meeting His Match

The Wedding Dare series by Laura Kaye, Jen McLaughlin, Tessa Bailey, Katee Robert & Samanthe Beck

Trapped and tempted, this battle of wills rages all night long...

Kady Dresco and Colton Brooks click on a level that defies logic. There are only two problems. One, he's her older brother's irritating best friend, and two, they're bidding on the same military security services contract.

When the competition heats up, Colton is torn between wanting to strangle Kady (and her annoying brilliance) and kissing her into submission. Which is a bad idea for a million reasons, because Kady's submission is exactly what he craves. Being trapped in a tiny motel room with the object of his darkest fantasies will require every ounce of his restraint.

Kady doesn't want his restraint, but Colton knows better. She deserves love, marriage, and a white picket fence — three things Colton can't give her. But her proximity and the memory of their steamy near-miss three years ago slowly destroys his resolve. And he's not sure how much longer he can keep his hands off ... or his heart closed.

Colton knows what he wants in the bedroom and is certain it's not for Kady. But Kady has a secret of her own - she's been secretly craving a taste of what she reads about. And who better to introduce her than Colton.

Ooh this starter novella was a steamy little surprise! I've never read anything by Laura Kaye before and damn did she do good on my debut read of her. Colton and Kady couldn't seem more different - until they get together and man ... is it hot when they get together! Great sex, great chemistry, great read.


Amazon UK: Dare to Resist

She's the one that got away. He's the one she can't forget.

Photojournalist Christine Forsythe is ready to tackle her naughty little to-do list, and who better to tap for the job than a hot groomsman? But when she crashes into her best friend's older brother, Christine realises her list needs updating. And fast. Tyler Dresco took her virginity during the best night of her life, then bolted. Now that they're trapped together at a destination wedding, she's going to get her revenge.

Tyler has never forgiven himself for how completely he lost control all those years ago. Being in Christine's arms had felt right ... until he realised what he'd taken from her in the hallway of a cheap motel. And oh, how she's making him pay for it now. The insatiable heat between them has only grown stronger, but every time things heat up, Christine walks away.

With every encounter, things go a little bit further until Christine's caught in her own trap of seduction. And before their time's up, Tyler's not the only one wanting more...

Tyler and Christine had a thing many moons ago which turned sour when Tyler felt guilt over taking Christine's v-card in a dingy hotel hallway. When they meet for the first time since then, the chemistry hasn't died.

Again another first time author for me and another surprise offering. McLaughlin managed to write good back stories in a short time - well written characters and great sex.

Amazon UK: Falling for the Groomsman

He'll own her from the very first touch.

Julie Piper and Reed Lawson have nothing in common. She's a people-pleasing sorority girl hiding behind her perfect mask. He's a take-no-prisoners SWAT commander who isolates himself from the world. But when they're forced together at their friends' posh destination wedding, one thing is clear — Reed wants Julie more than he wants his next breath. Which is why he's not about to stand by when she's dared to seduce another man.

Julie wants neat, tidy sex, so she could get back to what she does best — making everybody else happy. She never expected to slip into a dark bedroom and have her mind blown by rough, demanding hands, and a sinfully filthy mouth — neither of which belong to the best man.

One night should have been all Reed needed to get the blond temptress out of his system, but when one taste is nowhere near enough, he'll be forced to confront the effects of his hellish past. One that may push Julie away forever ... just when he realises he can't live without her.

Their first encounter was an accident, Julie never meant to surprise Reed with sexy times but she did and they're both surprised by how hot it is. Reed wants more, Julie doesn't want to want it but she does. So she throws herself into trying to forget it - unsuccessfully.

I liked Reed - he's damaged, he's sexy as fuck! Julie's a bit annoying and too eager to please - I know in most stories opposites attract but I don't think these two are a good match. Yeah the sex is hot but that doesn't amount to a good match.

Amazon UK: Baiting the Maid of Honor

She has a plan. He's about to change it.

Regan Wakefield is a headhunter in both name and personality: driven, motivated, and unafraid to pursue what — and who — she wants. Naturally, she's thrilled when her friend's wedding offers her an opportunity to score Logan McCade, the practically perfect best man. Unfortunately, groomsman Brock McNeil keeps getting in her way, riling her up in the most delicious of ways. But Brock's smooth southern charm isn't part of the plan ... so how exactly did they end up having searing-hot sex?

Regan may pretend the erotic electricity sparking between them is merely a distraction, but Brock knows better. She refuses to see beyond the devil-may-care façade he presents to the world, while he sees straight through hers. Changing her mind — and getting under her skin — is a challenge he can't resist. And when he wins, Brock will do whatever it takes to convince Regan that the best man for her is him.

Regan has studied Logan and decided he's the perfect man for her for this wedding, unfortunately her plans don't come to fruition and she ends up with Brock. She thinks he's just the lazy younger brother of a CEO living off daddy's name and money and refuses to see past that. He knows exactly what she is and plans to get to know her more.

Along with Julie, Regan is my only other unlikeable character in this series. I can't pinpoint it exactly, I just never got into her the same as the others. Brock, I liked - he's the younger brother that doesn't want to be under his father's shadow and has secrets of his own. Plus they make a wee cameo in Katee's next book.

Amazon UK: Seducing the Bridesmaid

How far can one favor go...

Logan McCade arrives at his best friend's wedding overworked and in desperate need of a vacation, only to discover his best man duties have been ... expanded. He must coax Colton's sister out of her shell, or risk her hiding in her room all week. Logan figures he can handle one introverted bridesmaid, but he's not expecting how much he enjoys "handling" Sophie ... or how much she enjoys being handled.

Socialising has never been web designer Sophie Brooks's strong suit, but she's determined to shed her wallflower image and embrace the "New Sophie" — a feat made easier with the supremely sexy Logan McCade tempting her to explore all her forbidden fantasies. If she's not careful, she just might fall for the best man.

Sophie's sweet, sexy, and delectably awkward demeanour brings much-needed calm to Logan's hectic life. With the nuptials only days away, Logan is forced to face the possibility that his favour to a friend might have become something else entirely ... and that he's not willing to let Sophie go. Ever.

Sophie has had body image issues her whole life and when she's finally feeling good about herself, she's determined to be a new person - she doesn't plan for it to involve Logan, her brother's best man.

Sophie is such a wee sweetheart, you can't help but love her. And you can totally understand while Logan falls for her. After Dare to resist, this is my favourite of the series.

Amazon UK: Best Man with Benefits

Seducing Mr Right by Katee Robert

He's not who she thinks, and he has seduction plans of his own...

Danielle Kastien is done with powerful men. After months of near-saintly behaviour, she's determined to use the company costume party to have her wicked way with every delicious inch of the sexy-but-sweet mail guy she's been meeting for coffee. Though her costume is designed to send him into a haze of blind lust, Danielle quickly realizes Grayson is not the kind of man she can control.

Grayson Harper is used to having his way at work and in the bedroom. He's dominant. Commanding. Obeyed. He's been patiently biding his time with Danielle, enjoying spending time with someone who sees him as someone other than the CEO of Harper Industries. But before he can confess, he has Danielle right where he wants her. Where he's wanted her since the day they met. And he's in far too deep to risk his claim on the one woman who makes him hard with need...

Danielle thinks she's been flirting with the mail guy all this time but she's actually been flirting with a CEO - and she has serious issues with powerful men. When she discovers who he is, Grayson has to convince Danielle why she should stay with him.

I've been enjoying this series and this novella is just a tiny taster of the great writing you can expect from Katee Robert. Danielle was introduced as a friend in an earlier book and I was happy when I saw she was the character in this novella - although I would've liked to see her in a longer book.

Katee writes likeable characters - in all the books I've read, her characters are well written and mostly likeable (I THINK there was a character I disliked in one of her books but I can't remember exactly so I may be wrong). The sex is always hot as well so big thumbs up there. *tee-hee*


Amazon UK: Seducing Mr. Right

Wrong Time for Love by Lola Drake

Cupid decides something drastic is needed to help the once burned career-focused Raina open herself up to love. Breaking all the rules, he takes her back in time to medieval Scotland to meet the ultimate alpha male and rekindle her confidence in relationships. He doesn't plan for them to fall in love, but even Cupid can't control the passion that ensues.

The 13th century was a treacherous time, and any alpha male in that era accumulated dangerous enemies. Will Raina survive long enough to find the love of her life? Will she want that love to be her Scottish Laird or the mystery man Cupid promised her back home?

Cupid breaks all rules and takes Raina back in time to rekindle her belief in love and romance. Unfortunately she actually falls in love with Tristan, her Scottish laird. This wasn't Cupid's plan - he plans on taking her back to her own time to meet her true love once she's opened her heart to love again.

As much as I've been enjoying this series, I didn't really enjoy this one. Books set in Scotland, tend to instantly get my dislike until they change my mind - sadly this one didn't. I can't remember exactly why but I think it was just little things - like, I'm sure at one point Tristan talks about being coastal but then mentions Dundonald castle which isn't coastal. I also don't think Tristan sounds like a very Scottish name - yeah in this day and age but back then I can't imagine a name like that being used. There really was just a few little things that bugged me.

I do enjoy this series and will continue to read it as I like the multi author angle and each release having its own characters and story which don't have to relate to previous ones at all. It's just this book in particular that doesn't get my love.


Amazon UK: Wrong Time for Love

Prince of Shadows by Rachel Caine

In the Houses of Montague and Capulet, there is only one goal: power. The boys are born to fight and die for honour and — if they survive — marry for influence and money, not love. The girls are assets, to be spent wisely. Their wishes are of no import. Their fates are written on the day they are born.

Benvolio Montague, cousin to Romeo, knows all this. He expects to die for his cousin, for his house, but a spark of rebellion still lives inside him. At night, he is the Prince of Shadows, the greatest thief in Verona — and he risks all as he steals from House Capulet. In doing so, he sets eyes on convent-bound Rosaline, and a terrible curse begins that will claim the lives of many in Verona...

...And will rewrite all their fates, forever.

Everyone knows the story of Romeo and Juliet so I'm not going to retell it in mini version here. This is set in the same time as Romeo and Juliet but is told from Benvolio Montague's point of view as he lives a secret life while also living up to his grandmother's expectations of him to keep Romeo in line.

I've always loved this Shakespeare tale and I've loved Rachel Caine's writing since I first picked up the Morganville series. She does a great job of embellishing on the characters that Shakespeare first imagined all those years ago and introduces more of Benvolio and Rosaline while, surprisingly, keeps Romeo to a minimum and Juliet even more so.

Unfortunately, I don't think there will be more from Caine in this series unless she plans on following suit with other Shakespeare tales. I don't feel like she can embellish on this one any further as the story was well and truly ended in my opinion. Which is a shame since I did really enjoy this.


Book Depository: Prince of Shadows
Amazon UK: Prince of Shadows

His To Keep by Katee Robert

He's always wanted her. Now's his chance to claim what's his.

School teacher Marceline Bellini gave up everything — men, sex, anything resembling a social life — to raise her young daughter. To be the perfect parent. But when she attends an engagement party in her standard stick-in-the-mud mode, her friends begin plying Marcy with shots. Just enough to convince her that a little fun doesn't sound like a bad idea ... and having some naughty fun is an even better one.

Like finding herself deliciously pressed against a dark alley wall by the very familiar and very hot body of her best friend's older brother.

After years of waiting in painful silence, police officer Aaron Robinson finally has Marcy's attention. And man, does he have it. But nothing could have prepared either of them for the rush of fiery lust between them. So he'll just have to convince Marcy he's for real. And that a rainy, lust-fuelled romp is the first step to a lifetime of completely imperfect happiness…

Short but hot new story in Katee Robert's Out of Uniform series. Featuring a new couple that I don't think were mentioned in the first book? If they were I don't remember them.

I liked them. Marcy has a sore past that makes her present self hard to please in the relationship stakes. Simply put - she doesn't want one, she doesn't want to get hurt again and she doesn't want her daughter to get hurt either. So in her eyes, it's better to just not get involved.

Aaron has had feelings for Marcy since she was a teenager but he's never acted on them ... until she hints at wanting more. He's determined to have a relationship and not a quick fling. He's just got to convince her of it. Aaron's a BIG guy .... I like that. There's something about that whole imposing Alpha male thing ... very sexy.

I'm definitely enjoying this series so far and this wee short has made me want to read the next book and hope that my suspicions about the characters is true.


Amazon UK: His to Keep
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Fall With Me by Julie Particka

In the game of love...

Dumped by her college boyfriend for her best friend, the last thing Jenna Brandt needs to deal with is working beside her backstabbing-BFF's hotter-than-hot brother. But when he offers her a chance to get some revenge on her ex, she can hardly say no - even if spending more time with Sutton puts her heart in jeopardy all over again.

Someone's going to get hurt...

Sutton Bell has had a thing for Jenna since they were in high school, but after one screwed-up night, she didn't want anything to do with him. Now, with just the summer before he leaves to begin his new career, Sutton's determined to convince Jenna he's not the player he used to be. But saving his sister from making an awful mistake may mean losing Jenna for good.

Jenna's best friend and fiancé (secret since he never allowed her to tell anyone) cheat with each other and break Jenna's heart. She hides out at college for a couple of weeks after she graduates 'cos she doesn't want to tell her family about what happened. When she finally goes home, she has to work with the same best friend's brother - who she had the hots for and embarrassed herself over in high school. What she doesn't know is that Sutton also had the hots for her - and still does. When they get together, the sparks are still there and they can't ignore them.

After the fab Pretty Souls, Particka has finally came out with a new book. Don't think that it has anything to do with Pretty souls - it doesn't, I'm still waiting for that one. The characters are fun (if a bit dull - Jenna) and the relationship between Jenna and Sutton is real and well written.

Spoilers follow - highlight to read: I didn't understand Lacey's need to get married just because she's pregant - I mean, it's not exactly a stigma anymore. But she was more than willing to marry a guy she didn't love and was actually well aware of the fact that he's a giant douchenozzle just so she didn't have a child while she was single? I can't understand that and it made her character a bit unlikeable .... well, even more unlikeable since she did sleep with her best friend's fiancé.

Besides that, I really did enjoy this book and was really glad that the author is writing as Julie Particka again. I'm hoping this means more from this alter ego and perhaps .... more from the Paranormal Response Team?


Amazon UK: Fall With Me
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Dirty Magic by Jaye Wells

Magic is a drug. Careful how you use it ...
The Magical Enforcement Agency keeps dirty magic off the streets, but there's a new blend out there that's as deadly as it is exclusive.

When patrol cop Kate Prospero shoots the lead snitch in this crucial case, she's brought in to explain herself. But the more she learns about the investigation, the more she realises she must secure a spot on the MEA task force.

Especially when she discovers that their lead suspect is the man she walked away from ten years earlier - on the same day she sworn she'd given up dirty magic for good. Kate Prospero's about to learn the hard way that crossing a wizard will always get you burned, and that when it comes to magic, you should never say never.

Kate gave up magic ten years ago after a tragic event but after she shoots and kills a man high on some new potion, she ends up becoming involved in the case that he was a snitch for. Unfortunately this brings her in close range with magic again as well as a man she also gave up ten years ago.

I love Kate Prospero! She's a really fun heroine ... she's spunky, kick ass and has a talent for magic. She manages to fill the void left by Wells' Sabina Kane departure. Although only time will tell whether Kate will get her own Giguhl like sidekick (that'd be awesome though).

Anyone who's read my reviews of the Sabina Kane books will know exactly how much I love Jaye Wells writing. She writes really great, strong heroines and she does her research! She went to a police run bootcamp to learn more about law enforcement so she can write true-to-life characters.

I really enjoyed this book and am looking forward to getting more into this series with each release. BRING ON BOOK NUMBER 2!


Book Depository: Dirty Magic
Amazon UK: Dirty Magic

The Book Of The Crowman by Joseph D'Lacey

The world has been condemned. Only Gordon Black and The Crowman can redeem it. The search for the shadowy figure known only as the Crowman continues, as the Green Men prepare to rise up against the forces of the Ward. It is the Bright Day, a time long generations hence, when a peace has descended across the world. It is the Black Dawn, a time of environmental apocalypse, the earth wracked and dying.

Release Date 6th March 2014

Gordon Black is still seeking the Crowman so he can help the Green Men overthrow the Ward. Megan progresses with her training to being the Keeper, although she knows her journey is coming to an end. The Black Dawn still rages on and the Ward are even worse than they were at the beginning.

This is the sequel to Black Feathers, which I really enjoyed and this book is no different. I absolutely love the story behind Gordon Black and how the earth herself has turned against everyone for mistreating her for so long.

Gordon has grown so much and faced so much, he's basically alone in his search for the Crowman. Others believe in him and other even look for him but not in the same way as Gordon.

Megan has also grown into her role as trainee Keeper, she seems much more comfortable with her teaching and more confident in her new role.

One thing that disappointed me was reading that this is the last book - for some reason I thought it was a trilogy and I'm quite disappointed with the fact that it won't continue. Not for any particular reason, because D'Lacey really closed the story well. I really enjoyed the ending ... as much as I could anyway, and you'll know what I mean when you read it - which I highly recommend you all to do.

D'Lacey has a good way of world building and has some horrible characters in here which are all well written. Loved this series, loved the world and the characters and I love D'Lacey's mind.


Book Depository: The Book Of The Crowman
Amazon UK: The Book of the Crowman

Entangled February Novellas Are Here

Discover 3 sexy and 3 unforgettable stories in Entangled's February Novellas! From an email that causes a curse of bad luck in love. To a kiss that could change a princess's future forever. Or a secret agent with a strange ability working on a case that could cost her much more than her heart! There's something for everyone!

Conning For Keeps
by Seleste DeLaney 
Publication: February 3rd, 2014 by Entangled Novellas
Seleste deLaney's Website and Twitter

Lovers undercover ...

Secret Agent Marissa Jones has a gift. A con artist to the core, after deep hypnosis she can turn into someone else entirely. Marissa's gift has gotten her into hot water over the years, but now more so than ever. With her smoking hot partner by her side, she needs to convince him that not only is she her true self, but also that she can be trusted — even in spite of her past.

... or traitors to the cause?

Trevor Harris has his own issues with the mission, he's got revenge to seek, a cursed painting to secure, and Marissa's sugary-sweet alter-ego to ignore. But when he releases Marissa from her mental cage and things get a little too hot, he ends up finding out what falling for a con artist really means — bigger trouble than ever before.


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Kissed
by Kim Knox
Publication: February 3rd, 2014 by Entangled Novellas
Kim Knox's Website and Twitter

Every princess should be kissed. And by a man who knows what he's doing. Beatricia had been enjoying just that with Farris Turner when she was caught.

But running only drives her into the arms of a stranger. A man who wants to offer her one night together, to offer her the experience her life and duties in the city of Sun-Airor - a place set out of space and time - have denied her.
It'll be her only chance before she's forced to enter a loveless marriage ... but who exactly is her stranger? And what will kissing him reveal?


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Cursed by Cupid 
by Wendy Sparrow
Publication: February 3rd, 2014 by Entangled Novellas
Wendy Sparrow's Website and Twitter

Dear Reader, this letter is to inform you of Cupid's curse, which will fall upon you if you don't pass this email on to three friends within three hours.

Tilly Morrow didn't believe in the curse and now she hasn't had a second date in three years ... because all her first dates end in disaster. In fact, she just accidentally punched a guy in the face, leaving her without a date for Valentine's Day!

Bryant Murphy isn't sure if the curse is real or not, but if dating Tilly means occasionally getting assaulted with a chocolate shake or nearly electrocuted, it's worth the risk. Armed with more lucky charms than a bowl of cereal, Bryant will have to battle flying swords, Russian mail-order brides, and shrimp linguini if he's going to win the girl.


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