Audiobook Review – FU Cancer by Hilaria Alexander

Title: FU Cancer
Author: Hilaria Alexander
Narrator: Elizabeth Klett
Length: 10 hrs and 44 mins
Release Date: Nov 24, 2016
 

Lucy has always been a good girl. The most hardcore thing she’s done in her life was falling for a divorced man 10 years her senior.

But he was the love of her life, and she married him. When her Peter Pan of a husband decided to divorce her, she thought it was her chance to start anew. That was until she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Besides looking like Britney circa 2007, she is taking it well, real well. You might see her walk around the hospital during chemo sessions with bright colored wigs and outrageous t-shirts that seem to shock the most conservative employees. One of them reads FU CANCER.

 

 

 

BFF K’s Review of FU Cancer

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Who would have ever imagined that a book with the title, “FU Cancer” would be so funny and so full of hope? Because of my aversion to angst, I had avoided this book though it came highly recommended during its original release. When I was offered the opportunity to review the audio, I took it and I’m so glad I did. This book was nothing like I had imagined it might be.

I put myself in Lucy’s shoes quite often as I listened. I imagined what life would be like for me if I was in Lucy’s position. Would I handle a cancer diagnosis with the same grace and style (best wigs and t-shirts ever) that she did? (I hope that I would and I also hope that I never find out.) Lucy’s world is rocked as the recent divorcee begins treatment for breast cancer. But, she’s soon caught off guard by the most beautiful man who is drawn to her for reasons she can’t understand. Their relationship is tested by life and her disease. They must determine if what they feel for one another is real and strong enough to go the distance.

Cancer is essentially one of the main characters in the story, but it is not the sole defining element. Working through the diagnosis, treatment and life after cancer with Lucy is scary and a little sad, but it is also uplifting and joyful. I wondered how you could find romance in a story of a young cancer patient undergoing treatment. But, this book is full of romance and love. I think this is a storyline that will be in the back of my mind for quite some time. If you’re looking for an emotional read that packs a powerful, positive, thought-provoking punch, I highly recommend, FU Cancer.

AND, Elizabeth Klett does a commendable job as the narrator. I think this might be the first audio I’ve listened to with her narrations, but I will definitely seek out more! There are so many great reasons to read FU Cancer, be sure to add it to your TBR/TBL (To Be Listened to) today!

 

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An advance copy of this book was received. Receipt of this copy did not impact the content or independence of this review.

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About the Author

 

Hello! I’m the author of Prude, This Love and FU Cancer.  I was born and raised in Italy but now I live in Oklahoma City with my husband and kids. I love traveling and I’m a self-proclaimed concert addict. If you have questions about me or my books, ask me on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

 

 

 

 

Audiobook Review – Jed Had to Die by Tara Sivec

 

The happiest day of Payton Lambert’s life was the day she graduated high school and watched Bald Knob, Kentucky, get smaller and smaller in her rearview mirror. She wanted more for her life than a tiny town where everyone knows your business and you can’t find a decent cup of coffee for at least 40 miles. Twelve years later an unexpected phone call in the middle of the night has her packing up her life in Chicago and racing back home to the one person she ever regretted leaving behind.

Upon her return she sees that Leo Hudson, the scrawny boy who had followed Payton around like a puppy and could recite cow insemination facts in his sleep, is long gone. Leo is still hot on her heels, but now he’s wearing a sheriff badge and dead set on solving a murder that may or may not involve Payton, along with half the town. In a town where the biggest crime happened the day someone kicked a few of his cows, people are pointing fingers, rumors are spreading like wildfire, and Payton swears she’s only making out with the sweet-talking, studly sheriff to distract him from the secrets she’s keeping.

When you’ve been tased, peed on by a yippy dog named Bo Jangles, and can’t stop picturing what Sheriff Hudson looks like naked, it will be a tough job making everyone agree that Jed had to die.

 

Audible        Amazon Kindle        Amazon Paperback

 

BFF K’s Review of Jed Had To Die

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I LOVE Jed Had to Die so much! It is clever, unique, sarcastic and LOL-funny! And I don’t use LOL as a throw-away-term, this book honestly had me laughing so long and so loud that I would have to stop and rewind the audio!

When Payton Lambert comes to the aid of her childhood BFF Emma Jo, that means stepping back into the town she’s been avoiding for YEARS. It seems Emma Jo has been in a horrible marriage. Payton had no idea, but will now do everything in her power to make sure that it is over. The two have a heart-warming friendship. Then there’s super-sweet and swoony Leo….he’s charming and delightful. Bald Knob is full of quirky and kooky characters. They can judge their own folks, but you’d better not! They are a devoted bunch who come together to stand by one another.

I have long loved the Dixie Chicks song, Earl Had to Die. Imagine the premise behind that song (below in case you can’t remember) expanded to include full characters, backstory, a new romance and a little mystery. You’ll be humming this chorus for days, but soon find that “Jed” replaces “Earl”!

I think everyone needs bits of this story in their own lives: a friendship like Payton and Emma Jo, a love like Leo, a town like Bald Knob and a little Liquid Crack! If you want a story that is absolutely hilarious, engaging and delightful, Jed Had to Die is PERFECTION!

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This audiobook was given by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost. Receipt of this copy did not impact the content or independence of this review.

 

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Earl Had to Die by the Dixie Chicks

(In case, like me, you’ve forgotten how truly awesome this is!)

About the Author

Tara Sivec is a USA Today best-selling author, wife, mother, chauffeur, maid, short-order cook, baby-sitter, and sarcasm expert. She lives in Ohio with her husband and two children and looks forward to the day when all three of them become adults and move out.

After working in the brokerage business for fourteen years, Tara decided to pick up a pen and write instead of shoving it in her eye out of boredom. She writes in a wide range of genres including Romantic Comedy, Romantic Comedy/Mystery, Romantic Suspense, New Adult Drama, Contemporary Romance and Psychological Thriller. Her novel Seduction and Snacks won first place in the Indie Romance Convention Reader’s Choice Awards 2013 for Best Indie First Book and she was voted Best Indie Author in the Indie Romance Convention Reader’s Choice Awards 2014.

In her spare time, Tara loves to dream about all of the baking she’ll do and naps she’ll take when she ever gets spare time.

 

Exclusive Guest Post – Jenna Sutton Author of the Riley O’Brien & Company Series

 

Two All New, Sexy Riley O’Brien & Co. Novellas

A KICK IN THE PANTS
A Riley O’Brien & Co. Novella
Jenna Sutton
Released Nov 15th, 2016


Jake Lilliard has always been a gambling man. So far, all the risks he’s taken — like moving to San Francisco and joining Riley O’Brien & Co. — have paid off. Now he’s ready to take the biggest risk of all: acting on his feelings for Kyla Andrews. As a trainee in his department, she’s off limits. But as soon as Kyla moves on to another job, he is going to make her his. He’s waited long enough…
 
When tragedy struck Kyla’s family years ago, she started playing it safe. She doesn’t take risks with her job or her heart, and she refuses to be a cliché – the foolish woman who falls for her sexy boss. Yet Jake is everything she has ever wanted, and it’s impossible to resist him and his enticing kisses.  
Just when it seems that the gamble they took will pay off, Jake’s past threatens his future with Kyla. He knows lady luck is fickle, but she’s always had a soft spot for him. He’s hoping she won’t turn her back on him when he needs her the most…


WILL NEVER FADE
A Riley O’Brien & Co. Novella
Jenna Sutton
Releasing Dec 13th, 2016

 

For Phoebe Werner, the management trainee program at Riley O’Brien & Co. represents a new beginning. She’s finally healthy, and she is trying to enjoy life while she can. She never expects to run into Garrett Gale at a New Year’s Eve party. The handsome hotelier is the only man she wants… and a reminder of what she can never have.
Years ago, Garrett enjoyed one memorable night with Phoebe after months of fantasizing about her. And then, she disappeared. She ignored his efforts to contact her, and he did his best to forget her. Now fate has brought her back into his life and his bed. But who knows how long she’ll stay there?
With Phoebe’s fears threatening to ruin their chance at happiness, Garrett must convince her that they’re meant to be. He can’t let Phoebe walk away with his heart again.

Read BFF K Reviews for A Kick in the Pants & Will Never Fade

Catching Up with Old Friends

Part of the fun in reading (and writing) novellas that are part of a larger series is the chance to catch up with characters in previous books. Whenever I read or write a novella, I feel like I am sitting down with old friends. And if I get an opportunity to meet new people, that’s even better.

The heroes and heroines of A Kick in the Pants and Will Never Fade are new to the Riley O’Brien & Co. world, but some of the favorite characters from the full-length books show up in the novellas.

The hero of A Kick in the Pants is Jake Lilliard. He got a brief mention in the epilogue of All the Right Places, the first book in the Riley O’Brien & Co. series. It’s so brief, if you blink, you’ll miss it. He plays a larger role in the first Riley O’Brien & Co. novella, The Perfect Fit.  

Quinn O’Brien, the hero of All the Right Places and CEO of Riley O’Brien & Co., recruited Jake to work for the company. Quinn shows up in Jake’s novella, and he offers Jake an amazing opportunity. But it comes with strings attached.  

The heroine of A Kick in the Pants is Kyla Andrews. For those of you who’ve read the other books in the series, you’ve heard about Kyla, but you’ve never met her.

Kyla is the youngest daughter of Letty Andrews, the live-in housekeeper/surrogate mother for Nick Priest and Teagan O’Brien-Priest, the hero and heroine, respectively, of Coming Apart at the Seams, book two in the Riley O’Brien & Co. series. Both Nick and Teagan show up in A Kick in the Pants, and we get to find out what they’ve been up to (and they’ve definitely been up to something!).

Kyla’s older sister, Vanessa, also shows up in A Kick in the Pants. For those of you who read Nick and Teagan’s book, you’ve met Vanessa before. She’s a wise and wonderful big sister, and when you finish A Kick in the Pants, I think you’re going to want to see Vanessa get her own HEA. Drop me a line at jenna@jennasutton.com if you want to read about Vanessa.

We meet the hero and heroine of Will Never Fade in A Kick in the Pants. Both Garrett and Phoebe are waiting for their HEA, although Garrett is impatient.

Jake and Kyla play big roles in Will Never Fade. Without them, Garrett and Phoebe would never get together.

If you’ve never read any of the Riley O’Brien & Co. novels or novellas, you won’t be confused if you start with A Kick in the Pants or Will Never Fade. All the novellas can be read as standalones, and you don’t have to read them in order.

But if you want to start with the first novella, The Perfect Fit is FREE on Amazon and B&N right now. What are you waiting for? Dive into the world of Riley O’Brien & Co. I promise it’s sexy, smart, and not too sweet.

P.S. Have you noticed all the titles of the full-length books and novellas tie into jeans and/or denim in honor of Riley O’Brien & Co.? What titles would have you chosen?

Excerpt from A Kick In the Pants

Metal wall sconces illuminated the corridor, throwing pools of golden light on the dark wood plank floors. A door opened a few feet ahead of her, and Jake emerged from it. He froze when he saw her, his eyes widening before he ambled toward her.

The narrow corridor made her even more aware of his height and muscular physique, and her body reacted the way it always did when got close. Her heart began to pound, and her breathing grew shallow. Suddenly, her throat was dry, and she swallowed thickly.

            Stopping right in front of her, he looked down into her face. His eyes caught the light from the sconces, glimmering with a million shades of green and gold. They dropped to her mouth before jumping back to hers.

“You’ve got sugar on your lips,” he notified her, his voice low and gravelly. 

            Without thinking, she licked her upper lip. He moved closer, the front of his long-sleeved dress shirt brushing against her chest. She nervously stepped back, afraid that she might throw herself at him. He followed until her back was against the wall. She sucked in a shaky breath, trying not to let him see how much his nearness affected her.

            “Not there.” He touched his thumb to her lower lip, toward the corner. “Here.”

            Dropping his head, he licked the spot where his thumb had been. She gasped, certain that she was having yet another X-rated dream starring Jake. When his tongue flicked along the outer edge of her upper lip, she realized it wasn’t a dream.

            “And you’ve got some here,” he murmured, tracing her lower lip with his tongue.

            She gripped his upper arms, his biceps rock hard under her fingers. “What are you doing?” she breathed against his mouth.

            He drew back to stare into her eyes. “I’m not your boss anymore, Kyla. I’m just a guy who works for the same company you do, and lucky for me, that company doesn’t have any rules against co-workers dating, even if they’re in the same department.”

            She barely heard a word he said because her ears were roaring with her pulse. “What?”

            He smiled slowly, and she couldn’t tear her eyes from his mouth. She clutched his arms tighter, wanting those lips on every part of her body.           

            “I’m not your boss anymore,” he repeated. “I have been counting the days until … until I could …”

            “Until you could what?” she whispered.

            “Until I could be with you,” he answered hoarsely. “That’s all I want … a chance to be with you.”

Giveaway

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About the Author

Jenna Sutton is a former award-winning journalist who traded fact for fiction when she began writing novels. Surprisingly, the research she conducted for her articles provided a lot of inspiration for her books.

Jenna is the author of the Riley O’Brien & Co. romances. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism from Texas Christian University and a Master’s degree in Integrated Marketing Communications from Northwestern University.

Jenna and her husband live in Texas in a 105-year-old house affectionately known as “The Money Pit”. You can find out more about her and her books by visiting www.jennasutton.com

 

 

 

 

Review – TWO New Riley O’Brien & Co. Novellas by Jenna Sutton

Two All New, Sexy Riley O’Brien & Co. Novellas

Check out the BFF Book Blog Exclusive Guest Post

A KICK IN THE PANTS
A Riley O’Brien & Co. Novella
Jenna Sutton
Released Nov 15th, 2016


Jake Lilliard has always been a gambling man. So far, all the risks he’s taken — like moving to San Francisco and joining Riley O’Brien & Co. — have paid off. Now he’s ready to take the biggest risk of all: acting on his feelings for Kyla Andrews. As a trainee in his department, she’s off limits. But as soon as Kyla moves on to another job, he is going to make her his. He’s waited long enough…
 
When tragedy struck Kyla’s family years ago, she started playing it safe. She doesn’t take risks with her job or her heart, and she refuses to be a cliché – the foolish woman who falls for her sexy boss. Yet Jake is everything she has ever wanted, and it’s impossible to resist him and his enticing kisses.  
Just when it seems that the gamble they took will pay off, Jake’s past threatens his future with Kyla. He knows lady luck is fickle, but she’s always had a soft spot for him. He’s hoping she won’t turn her back on him when he needs her the most…


WILL NEVER FADE
A Riley O’Brien & Co. Novella
Jenna Sutton
Releasing Dec 13th, 2016

 

For Phoebe Werner, the management trainee program at Riley O’Brien & Co. represents a new beginning. She’s finally healthy, and she is trying to enjoy life while she can. She never expects to run into Garrett Gale at a New Year’s Eve party. The handsome hotelier is the only man she wants… and a reminder of what she can never have.
Years ago, Garrett enjoyed one memorable night with Phoebe after months of fantasizing about her. And then, she disappeared. She ignored his efforts to contact her, and he did his best to forget her. Now fate has brought her back into his life and his bed. But who knows how long she’ll stay there?
With Phoebe’s fears threatening to ruin their chance at happiness, Garrett must convince her that they’re meant to be. He can’t let Phoebe walk away with his heart again.

BFF K Reviews for A Kick in the Pants & Will Never Fade

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The only thing wrong with these two new Riley O’Brien & Company Novellas is that they’re too short! So much goodness packed into two, great, little stories. This is a must-read series and the novellas are a big part of that!

A Kick in the Pants

Jake is Kyla’s boss and he is literally counting down the hours until that’s no longer true. Because he can’t stop thinking about her and definitely not in the “boss/employee” way! There is delicious tension as they each try to deny their attraction for the other. When they finally come together bits from their past threaten their happiness and the new relationship. They will have to determine if their love is able to overcome their fears.

Jake and Kyla are a delicious and delightful couple. They’re hard-working, honorable, sweet and sexy. Jenna Sutton just keeps delivering great characters and engaging storylines. I desperately want to go to work for Riley O’Brien and Company, because I want to be friends with this terrific cast!

 

Will Never Fade

This is a captivating, second-chance tale that delivers butterflies and romance from the first chapter through the epilogue. Garrett and Phoebe were thick as thieves in college. They shared classes, projects, plans and so much more. Their one steamy night ends abruptly with no more contact. But, when they bump into one another unexpectedly in a new town and a new social circle, the same old attraction comes rushing right back.

They both search for ways to re-establish their relationship and determine what their connection means for each other and their respective futures. You’ll swoon over Garrett’s thoughts and actions. At the same time, your heart will seize from Phoebe’s selfless love for Garrett.

Jenna Sutton has accomplished what is next to impossible, making a novella feel as complete and fulfilling as a full-length novel. It is full of fear, trepidation, hope, commitment and love. Will Never Fade is like receiving jewelry on a special holiday, the box may be small, but what’s inside can be sparkly and fabulous!

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Though the Riley O’Brien & Company novellas are not technically holiday themed stories, I think they’re the perfect reads for the holiday season. When life is hectic and busy, these stories offer a ton of bang for the buck. You get a great story and terrific characters in a shorter story that won’t take you too much time to read. This is a great escape from real-life stress and chaos!

If you haven’t picked up Jenna Sutton’s Riley O’Brien & Company Series yet, you absolutely need to check out this series. Every installment whether long or short is packed full of great characters, heart-felt emotion, solid storytelling, some good steam and lots of pleasing romance! All of the full-length books and novellas in the Riley O’Brien series can be read as stand-alones.

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This book received a 4.5 Rating on BFF Book Blog. An advance copy was received. Receipt of this copy did not impact the content or independence of this review.

Excerpt from Will Never Fade

Garrett picked up his fork, but instead of eating off his own plate, he stabbed a piece of chicken off hers. As he brought it to his mouth, she kicked him under the table, not hard, just a tap. 

“If you wanted chicken tagine,” she groused, “you should have ordered it.”

Although his mouth was busy chewing, she could tell he wanted to smile. This was their old routine—him eating off her plate, her chastising him, and him offering little tidbits of his meal to repay her.  

Switching his fork for a spoon, he scooped some stew from the orange bowl in front of him and held it up to her mouth. She opened with no hesitation, the whole situation as comfortable and familiar as her favorite flannel nightgown.

He spooned the food into her mouth. As she chewed the flavorful combination of tender beef, kalamata olives, raisins, and garbanzo beans, she got hints of cinnamon and cumin and a little kick of lemon.

“Oh, that’s good,” she murmured, licking her lips. “Give me another bite.”

He didn’t give her what she wanted. Instead, his eyes dropped to her mouth and stayed there for several heartbeats. She watched as his pupils expanded and his irises darkened from bright turquoise to deep teal.

She had seen that look in his eyes before, but she hadn’t recognized it for what it was. She did now. 

Suddenly the situation was no longer comfortable. And neither was the ache between her thighs. Feeling a syrupy trickle of arousal into her panties, she silently cursed herself and shifted on the banquette seat. 

She’d known it would be impossible for them to go back to the way things used to be. They had opened Pandora’s Box that night. Or, to be more accurate, they had opened Phoebe’s box.

They’d released a powerful force into their friendship—desire. And that desire simmered beneath the surface like a dormant volcano just waiting to erupt.

Giveaway

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About the Author

Jenna Sutton is a former award-winning journalist who traded fact for fiction when she began writing novels. Surprisingly, the research she conducted for her articles provided a lot of inspiration for her books.

Jenna is the author of the Riley O’Brien & Co. romances. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism from Texas Christian University and a Master’s degree in Integrated Marketing Communications from Northwestern University.

Jenna and her husband live in Texas in a 105-year-old house affectionately known as “The Money Pit”. You can find out more about her and her books by visiting www.jennasutton.com

 

 

 

Review – Someone Like You by Lauren Layne

A man who’s living a lie—until his dream woman takes away the pain.

 

SOMEONE LIKE YOU

Oxford #3

Lauren Layne

Releasing Dec 6th, 2016

Loveswept

 

Lauren Layne’s bestselling Oxford Series continues with the poignant, heartwarming story of New York’s most eligible bachelor, Lincoln Mathis, a man who’s living a lie—until his dream woman takes away the pain.

Lincoln Mathis doesn’t hide his reputation as Manhattan’s ultimate playboy. In fact, he cultivates it. But behind every flirtatious smile, each provocative quip, there’s a secret that Lincoln’s hiding from even his closest friends—a tragedy from his past that holds his heart quietly captive. Lincoln knows what he wants: someone like Daisy Sinclair, the sassy, off-limits bridesmaid he can’t take his eyes off at his best friend’s wedding. He also knows that she’s everything he can never have.

After a devastating divorce, Daisy doesn’t need anyone to warn her off the charming best man at her sister’s wedding. One look at the breathtakingly hot Lincoln Mathis and she knows that he’s exactly the type of man she should avoid. But when Daisy stumbles upon Lincoln’s secret, she realizes there’s more to the charming playboy than meets the eye. And suddenly Daisy and Lincoln find their lives helplessly entwined in a journey that will either heal their damaged souls . . . or destroy them forever.

Buy Links     

Amazon | B & N | Google | iTunes | Kobo

BFF K’s Review of Someone Like You

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Since the first book in the Oxford Series, I have been drawn to Lincoln Mathis. He has been an enigma. The ladies man with a heart of gold, just a little too polished and a little too perfect. Lincoln seemed to romance half of Manhattan, but that character never quite meshed with the wonderful person who created deep and meaningful relationships with his charming group of friends.

Enter Daisy Sinclair (twin sister of Emma and new sister-in-law of Cassidy, Lincoln’s boss.) Lincoln and Daisy meet serving as Best Man and Maid of Honor at the wedding and their connection is instant but not romantic. As the backstories of both characters are revealed, your heart will break for them. But, the way they heal themselves and each other is what makes this book a wonderful read. The first moment they ALMOST give into their attraction is one of the hottest no-sex-sexy-scenes I’ve read. But, don’t worry, there’s plenty of steam!

There is angst and tears, but also hope and sweetness and romance and love. It is all wrapped up in this wonderful group of “friends as family.” Lincoln and Daisy are one of my most favorite couples in the series. I’m not ready to say goodbye, so I’m glad that Lauren Layne has announced one more book in the Oxford Series. I have read all of them and highly recommend them (as I do everything by Lauren Layne) BUT you don’t need to read the other books in the series to thoroughly enjoy Lincoln and Daisy’s love story.

Someone Like You is a solid, sweet, romance with terrific characters and all the feels. You definitely want to add this book (the whole series really) to your TBR today! Lincoln and Daisy’s story was worth the wait!

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An advance copy of this book was received. Receipt of this copy did not impact the content or independence of this review.

Giveaway

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Advance praise for Someone Like You

“Fun and flirty, sassy and steamy, with a deep emotional pull that will keep you turning the pages.”—Kelly Jamieson, author of Top Shelf

“An unsung hero with a story that touched my heart. Emotional and gripping. A top favorite of 2016 for me.”—New York Times bestselling author Melanie Moreland

About the Author

Lauren Layne is the USA Today bestselling author of more than a dozen romantic comedies. She lives in New York City with her husband (who was her high school sweetheart–cute, right?!) and plus-sized Pomeranian.In 2011, she ditched her corporate career in Seattle to pursue a full-time writing career in Manhattan, and never looked back.In her ideal world, every stiletto-wearing, Kate Spade wielding woman would carry a Kindle stocked with Lauren Layne books.For a list of all her works, please be sure to check out her official website!

Author Links:  Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Instagram

 

Review – After We Fall by Melanie Harlow

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After We Fall by Melanie Harlow
Publication Date: November 28th, 2016
Genre: Contemporary Romance

Jack Valentini isn’t my type.

Sexy, brooding cowboys are fine in the movies, but in real life, I prefer a suit and tie. Proper manners. A close shave.

Jack might be gorgeous, but he’s also scruffy, rugged, and rude. He wants nothing to do with a “rich city girl” like me, and he isn’t afraid to say so.

But I’ve got a PR job to do for his family’s farm, so he’s stuck with me for ten days, and I’m stuck with him. His glares. His moods. His tight jeans. His muscles.

His huge, hard muscles.

Pretty soon there’s a whole different kind of tension between us, the kind that has me misbehaving in barns, trees, and pickup trucks. I’ve never done anything so out of character—but it feels too good to stop.

And the more I learn about the grieving ex-Army sergeant, the better I understand him. Losing his wife three years ago left him broken and bitter and blaming himself. He doesn’t think he deserves a second chance at happiness.

But he’s wrong.

I don’t need to be his first love. If only he’d let me be his last.

“Second chances are not given to make things right, but are given to prove that we could be even better after we fall.” —Unknown

BFF K’s Review of After We Fall

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After We Fall is a touching, emotional, well-developed story of loss and love, finding your true self, and having a second chance at a Happily Ever After.

Jack Valentini is damaged. He is sullen, grouchy, and set in his ways. All of those traits hide a man who is achingly damaged. Both a soldier and a widower he truly believes himself unworthy of a second chance at happiness.

Margot is the picture perfect upper crust, trust-fund-daughter. Though she desperately wants to find a life that is uniquely hers and more impactful than the checks she writes and the fundraisers she attends.

Margot goes to help Jack’s family with their business but finds that she really wants to help Jack himself. Their relationship is flirty and sweet while at the same time passionate and disruptive.

After We Fall contains the signature emotions and the steam that I expect from a Melanie Harlow novel. This book elicited more tears than I usually have when reading one of her stories, but it is not a bad thing. The book was emotional and really fantastic! I highly recommend this touching, romantic, character-driven story about taking a second chance at Happily Ever After.

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An advance copy of this book was received. Receipt of this copy did not impact the content or independence of this review.

dual point of view

Excerpt

“Wow,” she said, shutting the screen door behind her. “That was close. Thank you so much.”

“You’re welcome.” I crossed my arms, wishing I’d thought to grab a shirt. “Want to tell me what you were doing out there?”

Her cheeks colored. “Um, I was taking a run.”

“Up a tree?”

She laughed nervously. “No. Well, I didn’t start out in a tree. That happened later.”

I cocked my head, unable to resist giving her a hard time. Not so sure of yourself now, are you, Barbie? “Oh yeah?”

“Yes. See, I left the cottage I’m renting without using the bathroom by mistake,” she began, twisting her fingers together, “and I was planning on running a loop around the farm, but it’s bigger than I thought.”

“Ah. So you were looking for a bathroom in the woods?”

“Well, yes.” She swallowed. “Sort of. But then I heard a splash and saw you…” Her cheeks were practically purple now.

I played dumb. “Saw me what?”

“Saw you naked, OK?” she blurted, throwing her hands up. “I admit it—I saw you naked.”

I had no hangups about nudity, but I was damn serious about my privacy, and about people sneaking up on me. But her embarrassment was funny. The two times I’d seen her before, she’d been so polished and poised. It felt good to put her in her place a little. “So you climbed a tree for a better view, is that it?”

Bowing her head, she dragged the toe of one shoe across the wood planks of the porch floor. “Something like that.” Then she looked up at me. Took a breath. “I’m really sorry. I shouldn’t have done that. I was—I mean, I got—I couldn’t—” She sighed, briefly closing her eyes. “I have no excuse. Will you accept my apology?”

She was prettier without makeup, I decided. And the way she wore her hair off her face emphasized the wideness of her eyes, the angle of her cheekbones, the arch of her brows. Her lips didn’t need all that glossy crap, either. They were a perfect rosy pink, and I wondered if they’d feel as soft as they looked.

Fuck. I hadn’t kissed anyone in three years.

Clearing my throat, I took a step back. “Yeah. It’s fine.” Now get out of here.

She didn’t move. “So you’re not going to fire me?”

“I never hired you.”

“I know. But I really want this job. I think I can help, Jack. I know I can.”

“Suit yourself. I want nothing to do with it.” My name on her lips was trouble. Needing some distance from her, I started walking toward the dock to get my shoes and socks, but she followed me. God, she was a pest. It reminded me of the way Steph used to tag along after the boys when we were kids, wanting to get in our games.

“Are you going to be like this the entire time I’m here?” she asked.

“Like what?”

“Moody and uncooperative?”

“Probably.”

“Why? Do you hate me that much?”

“I don’t hate anybody. I just don’t see why we should pay some city girl who’s never set foot on a farm to advise us.” We reached the dock, and I leaned down to get my stuff.

“I’m not even asking to be paid, so piss off!” she shouted, her voice carrying on the water.

I straightened. “Oh, you’re working for free?”

“Yes!”

“Then you’re an idiot. Or so rich you don’t need the money.”

“I’m not an idiot,” she said through clenched teeth.

“So you’re rich, then.” I don’t know why I was being such an asshole. But for some reason, I did not want to let her see another side of me, or see another side to her. “I should have guessed.”

She crossed her arms. “And what’s that supposed to mean?”

“It means you look like you’ve led a charmed life. Like you’ve had everything you’ve ever wanted handed to you. Like you’ve never gotten your hands dirty.”

“So get them dirty.”

I almost fell off the dock. “What?”

“Get them dirty. Teach me about working this farm. I want to learn.”

Was she serious? The last thing I needed was to drag her ass around all day, explaining things. Or stare at her ass all day, imagining things. But one look at her defiant face and I shook my head. “Why do I feel like if I say no, you’ll just keep bothering me?”

She smiled and clasped her hands behind her back, rocking forward on her toes. “Because I will. I don’t like being told no.”

“Of course you don’t.” Jesus, she was trouble. A bad apple—smooth and shiny on the outside, spoiled rotten on the inside. But for no good reason, I found myself giving in. “Fine. Go change your clothes.”

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Purchase Links:

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About the Author

Melanie Harlow likes her martinis dry, her heels high, and her history with the naughty bits left in. When she’s not writing or reading, she gets her kicks from TV series like VEEP, Game of Thrones, House of Cards, and Homeland. She occasionally runs three miles, but only so she can have more gin and steak.

Melanie is the author of the HAPPY CRAZY LOVE series, the FRENCHED series, and the sexy historical SPEAK EASY duet, set in the 1920s. She lifts her glass to romance readers and writers from her home near Detroit, MI, where she lives with her husband, two daughters, and pet rabbit.

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Review – Out of Bounds by Lauren Blakely

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From NYT Bestselling author Lauren Blakely, comes a sexy new standalone sports romance…

OUT OF BOUNDS!

Ready to be swept off your feet? Meet the witty, sexy, dirty-talking quarterback Drew in OUT OF BOUNDS! Grab your copy today!

 

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“Out of Bounds smolders with heat, desire, and wicked swoon-worthy excitement!”

~Beneath the Covers Book Blog

 

“So much passion and intensity that you wouldn’t expect in a sports romance, but once again, Lauren Blakely BRINGS IT”

~Shayna Renee Spicy Reads

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The first rule of football–don’t screw with a streak.

My career is finally looking up, and I’m leading a new pro team down the field every Sunday. No way will I mess with that. But when I meet the most stunning and captivating woman I’ve ever seen, I tell myself one night will have to be enough.

But it’s not. And now I can’t get her out of my mind. Even when I’m playing. Even when I need to focus. Even when I’m on the hottest streak of my life.

And it turns out, she’s not just some random woman I met. She works for the team. My team.

***

I only have one goal this season–do my part as the team’s lawyer to keep them out of trouble. Help rebuild their reputation on and off the field. There’s no room for error and certainly no room for a secret tryst with a player . . . even if he’s the quarterback.

Right?

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Add it to Goodreads here!

 

BFF K’s Review of Out of Bounds

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This book is a delicious sorbet. It’s the perfect palate cleanser that leaves you refreshed, happy and looking forward to the next course! Out of Bounds is a sweet and endearing little romance. It’s set in the world of professional football and features the forbidden Romance between the star quarterback and the smoking-hot attorney from the front office.

Drew and Dani are a darling couple. They’re both hard-working, caring, kind, engaging and lovable. They’re solid independent characters. You will root for them to find a way to get together and stay together.

If you are looking for a super quick, fun, lighthearted read, Out of Bounds is a great choice. And, if you like a little hot-athlete to spice up your romance, even better. Lauren Blakely has delivered a worthy and satisfying literary treat. It would be a great idea to go ahead and one-click it today!

 

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An advance copy of this book was received. Receipt of this copy did not impact the content or independence of this review.

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“The perfect mix of sexiness, laughter, and sweetness.”

~Two Book Pushers

 

 

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Excerpt

“Be on your best behavior, Drew,” he says, a teasing tone in his voice.

            “I always am,” I reply, and the fact is, that’s true. Clean-cut is my nickname.

            “And text if you’re done early.”

            “If I’m done early, I’m having a date with my mattress.”

            He groans. “You are the definition of no fun.”

            I grin. “That’s me. That’s why Qwench wants me now. Because I know how to get a good night’s sleep and stay out of the line of fire.”

            When I hang up, I step out of the car, hand the keys to the valet, and thank him. Then I head inside, where Stuart greets me in the room reserved for the event, claps me on the back, and introduces me to several people. A photographer snaps shots the whole time, and I play the role that’s hardly a role—the outgoing, non-trouble-making, peace-loving quarterback who doesn’t throw punches or raise fists, like others before me have.

            Don’t smoke, don’t do drugs, don’t have unprotected sex, and I also don’t speed. Squeaky clean indeed. Not even a traffic ticket on the record, and certainly no knocked-up teenyboppers with mini Drews baking in their bellies.

            Stuart introduces me to the red-haired, freckle-faced guy who heads up this charity. “And this is Drew Erickson. He’s our new starter. We’re thrilled to have him on the team, especially since he’s already active with many wonderful charitable endeavors,” Stuart says to the ginger-haired guy.

            We exchange small talk for a few minutes, then Stuart drops a hand on my shoulder and tells me there’s someone else he wants me to meet. “I’d love to introduce you to a sharp-as-a-tack woman who makes sure I don’t fumble,” he says, then winks in case I didn’t realize he was making a joke.

            I smile to let him know I got it—fumbling humor and all—then my smile turns into a ruler-straight line when I turn on my heels and see my surfer angel.

            Holy shit. She’s hot as sin in a red skirt, white blouse, and black heels. She holds a drink. Her blond hair is twisted on her head. Damn. The smoking-hot look is almost enough to make me forget she blew me off. My dick, the traitorous bastard, has already come down with amnesia. The fucker wants her.

            “This is Dani Paige. She’s an attorney for the team,” he says, and I attempt to school my expression as I come face-to-face with the woman who ditched me.

            And all I want to do is toss her on my shoulder, stalk to the bathroom, slam the door, and ask her why the fuck she didn’t call. Then when she tells me it was because she was too busy getting off to thoughts of me, I’d kiss the hell out of her until she melted in my arms and begged me to take her. I’d happily oblige. Hoist her up, hook her legs around my hips, and fuck her against the wall until she comes harder than she ever has before.

            Instead, I shake her free hand. “Pleasure to meet you.” Then I whisper, just for her. “Jaws.”

 

 

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Giveaway

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About the Author

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Since self-publishing her debut romance novel CAUGHT UP IN US over three years ago, Lauren Blakely has sold more than 1.5 million books. She is known for her sexy contemporary romance style that’s full of heat, heart and humor. A devout fan of cake and canines, Lauren has plotted entire novels while walking her four-legged friends. She lives in California with her family. With twelve New York Times bestsellers, her titles have appeared on the New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal Bestseller Lists more than seventy times. Her bestselling series include Sinful Nights, Seductive Nights, No Regrets, Caught Up in Love, and Fighting Fire as well as standalone hit romances like BIG ROCK, MISTER O, WELL HUNG, and THE SEXY ONE which were all instant New York Times Bestsellers. In January she’ll release FULL PACKAGE, a standalone romantic comedy. To receive an email when Lauren releases a new book, sign up for her newsletter! laurenblakely.com/newsletter.

 

Website ** Facebook ** Twitter ** Newsletter ** Goodreads

 

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Review – Managed by Kristen Callihan

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managed-amazonIt started off as a battle of wits. Me: the ordinary girl with a big mouth against Him: the sexy bastard with a big…ego.

I thought I’d hit the jackpot when I was upgraded to first class on my flight to London.

That is until HE sat down next to me. Gabriel Scott: handsome as sin, cold as ice. Nothing and no one gets to him. Ever. He’s a legend in his own right, the manager of the biggest rock band in the world, and an arrogant ass who looks down his nose at me.

I thought I’d give him hell for one, long flight. I didn’t expect to like him. I didn’t expect to want him. But the biggest surprise? He wants me too. Only in a way I didn’t see coming.

If I accept his proposal, I leave myself open to falling for the one man I can’t manage. But I’m tempted to say yes. Because the real man beneath those perfect suits and that cool façade just might be the best thing that’s ever happened to me. And I just might be the only one who can melt the ice around his heart.

 

Let the battle begin…

 

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BFF K’s Review of Managed

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Managed is the story of a buttoned-up, controlled, self-possessed man who comes completely unraveled by the love of a good woman. This opposites attract tale, set in the world of rock-and-roll, will leave you begging for more! I just turned off the Kindle and I’m already craving more from the guys who make up Kill John, the hottest rock band around.

But, in a sweet twist, this book isn’t about one of the on-stage Heroes, no, this is the story of their manager. Gabriel Scott has his hands full managing the world’s most popular band. He lords over his domain and everyone in it with an iron-will. When he meets Sophie Darling on a plane, his whole world starts to shift. Suddenly, nothing seems to matter but her. There are shadows in Sophie’s past, but the light is shined on those fairly early. Managed is full of the most delicious angst. The love story for Gabriel and Sophie is a slow burn that explodes with intensity and passion.

I really, really, love these characters. Kristen Callihan has created the fantastic world that rotates around Kill John. Each of the characters has a distinctive point-of-view and role to play in the stories. Their bonds with one another add depth and color to book. But, the coming books will have to work hard to live up to the love story of Scottie and Sophie. If you’re looking for a great read, check out this well-developed, opposites attract, rock-and-role love story. You won’t be sorry for one-clicking this chart topper!

 

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An advance copy of this book was received. Receipt of this copy did not impact the content or independence of this review.

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Excerpt

In all this time, I had yet to see Gabriel without a shirt. He hides his body like a pious Victorian, never letting me see anything other than him fully dressed and polished. Now I know why. Had he let me get a glimpse, I might never have been able to form a coherent thought around him.

This man’s chest is a work of art. It’s every fantasy I’ve had about a man’s body made real. I don’t even know how that’s possible, but I’m not about to complain. God, he looks touchable. Olive skin, tight little brownish nipples, a smattering of dark chest hair over the most incredibly honed—

“You’re staring.” His tone is dry.

“Yes, I am.” I drag my eyes up and find his expression bemused.

A thick brow lifts. I try to mimic the look and fail when both of my brows lift as one. His lips twitch in amusement.

He shifts his weight, causing his abs to clench. Good Lord. He’s not some overdeveloped gym worshiper, just solid and strong, that perfect balance between defined musculature and healthy male—

“You’re still staring, Sophie.”

“You think it’s easy looking away from all this splendor?” I ask his belly button, licking my lips when he huffs out a laugh and just a little bit more of his lower abs are revealed, slanting toward the thick bulge of his cock, which is lamentably hidden behind his slacks.

“You’re impossible,” he mutters, though there is humor in his voice. He strolls farther into the room and then practically kills me when he sits in one of the low-slung armchairs. That body, sprawled out on display, those thick, long thighs braced as if to take me in his lap—it’s too much.

I want to straddle him and lick my way from the hollow of his throat to the tip of his cock.

He eyes me as if he knows what I’m thinking, and the air thickens. So many things we left unsaid. I’m remembering his lips now, surprisingly soft, but strong with purpose.

From the way his lids lower, I wonder if he’s remembering things as well. But he doesn’t move. Tension glides over his body and snakes around the room. I feel it in my throat and down my spine. We’re closing up again, retreating.

Slowly, I toe off my shoes and set my gear down, never breaking eye contact. “I was being completely honest,” I tell him. “I see you like this and I want to stare forever.”

He snorts, shaking his head even as he rests his temple on his knuckles. “What do you mean ‘like this’?”

“Undone.”

He tenses. It does lovely things to that chest. I focus on his face, mainly to maintain some semblance of decorum.

“You think this is me undone?” he asks quietly.

“It’s a start.” I reach for my camera bag. “Will you let me photograph you?”

There is safety to be found with the camera between us. A way for both of us to hide until we’re comfortable around each other again.

“You’re serious?”

“You sound surprised.” Holding my camera, I sit in the sofa opposite him. “Don’t tell me no one has asked to take your picture before.”

“They’ve asked. I never saw the point.” He shrugs. “I’m not the story.”

You’re my story. You always were.

“This is just for me,” I say instead. “No one else.”

His shrewd gaze pins me. “Why do you want this?”

So I can have a bit of you forever. “Pictures capture moments in time. I want this one—when you finally let me see a sliver of the man behind the clothes.”

His nostrils flare on an indrawn breath, and he slowly lets it out. When he speaks, his voice is a rasp. “Take the pictures.”

 

 

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About the Author

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Kristen Callihan is an author because there is nothing else she’d rather be. She is a three-time RITA nominee and winner of two RT Reviewer’s Choice awards. Her novels have garnered starred reviews from Publisher’s Weekly and the Library Journal, as well as being awarded top picks by many reviewers. Her debut book FIRELIGHT received RT Magazine’s Seal of Excellence, was named a best book of the year by Library Journal , best book of Spring 2012 by Publisher’s Weekly, and was named the best romance book of 2012 by ALA RUSA. When she is not writing, she is reading.

WEBSITE / FACEBOOK / TWITTER / AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE

Review – One Snowy Night by Jill Shalvis

Jill Shalvis returns to Heartbreaker Bay 
with a fun and festive holiday novella!
ONE SNOWY NIGHT
Heartbreaker Bay #2.5
Jill Shalvis
Releasing Nov 8th, 2016

 

New York Times bestselling author Jill Shalvis returns to Heartbreaker Bay with a fun and festive holiday novella!
It’s Christmas Eve and Rory Andrews is desperate to get home to the family she hasn’t seen in years. Problem is, her only ride to Lake Tahoe comes in the form of the annoyingly handsome Max Stranton, and his big, goofy, lovable dog Carl.Hours stuck in a truck with the dead sexy Max sounds like a fate worse than death (not), but Rory’s out of options. She’s had a crush on Max since high school and she knows he’s attracted to her, too. But they have history… and Max is the only one who knows why it went south.

 

They’ve done a good job of ignoring their chemistry so far, but a long road trip in a massive blizzard might be just what they need to face their past… and one steamy, snowy night is all it takes to bring Max and Rory together at last.


BFF K’s Review of One Snowy Night

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One Snowy Night is a delightful, charming story that is perfect for the holiday season! It’s a quick read (or listen) that is full of heart and Christmas Spirit!

Rory and Max have a history and it’s one that dates way before the time they bumped into one another in San Francisco. Horrible memories of High School plague them both. But a quick trip back to memory lane (their old home town) will reveal a few hidden secrets.

This little novella plays out like the perfect Hallmark Christmas Movie (so you know I’ve got to love it!) If you’re looking for a sweet, heartwarming, romantic, holiday-love-story, One Snowy Night is the perfect gift to buy yourself! And, if you’re too swamped to read, purchase the terrific audio and enjoy it while you’re wrapping all the presents!

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An advance copy of this book was received. Receipt of this copy did not impact the content or independence of this review.

Giveaway

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About the Author



New York Times bestselling author Jill Shalvis lives in a small town in the Sierras with her family and far too many assorted quirky characters. Any resemblance to the quirky characters in her books is, um, mostly coincidental.Look for Jill’s latest, SWEET LITTLE LIES on shelves and e-readers now, and get all her bestselling, award-winning books wherever romances are sold.Visit Jill’s website for a complete book list and daily blog detailing her city-girl-living-in-the-mountains adventures.
 

 

Review – Endurance by Georgia Cates

 

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endurance-coverI’m a doctor. Mobster. Killer.

My hands are covered in filth. I don’t have the right to touch anything as clean and pure as Ellison MacAllister.

 

I distance myself … always remaining obscure, composed, restrained.

Careful to never allow my eyes to linger too long.

Careful to hide my interest.

Careful to keep my burning desire buried beneath the surface.

 

I do it for her—suffer in silence—because it’s what is best for the woman I love.

And she has no idea.

 

She’ll be initiated as a Fellowship member soon. One of my mafia brothers will go through endurance so he’ll earn the right to claim her.

Make her his wife.

Kill. Me. Slowly.

 

I’m running out of time. Only a month remains before she’s beyond my reach forever.

I want to taste her. Share sleepless nights. Ride out her storm.

I want to give her the kind of nights she will still feel between her legs the next morning.

I want us to share the kind of passion that forms on our skin and drips down to saturate the sheets.

Between the sweat and the moans and the messy hair, I want her to know how hard she’s been loved.

 

To have her is to taint her.

I should stay away. But I won’t. I can’t.

I’m a selfish bastard.

A selfish bastard in love.

 

AMAZON

 

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BFF K’s Review of Endurance

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I’m completely freaking out over how much I LOVE this book! The Sin Series has become one of my most favorite mafia series and I am so invested in all of these characters. I cannot wait until the next installment so I can go back to Scotland and pretend I’m a member of the Fellowship.

Ellison has gone to Scotland to spend time with her sister Bleu and Bleu’s growing family. Ellie can’t imagine leaving her only family to return to the United States; but she soon learns that there is more going on in Bleu’s new family than she ever imagined.  She also can’t imagine leaving Jamie, her brother-in-law’s best friend and the man she’s falling hopelessly in love with. But, Jamie and Ellison have countless obstacles standing in their path, not the least of which is the fact that Ellie is not Fellowship.

Jamie will have to make a near-death sacrifice to make her one of them. This is a pain he will gladly endure, IF he can be assured of her happiness and protection. If he can’t promise her everything, he’s willing to give her to another who can. What follows is a fantastic story of sacrifice, devotion, romance and true love.

Endurance had me awake 1/2 the night. I kept thinking, “I’ll just finish this one scene.” But, that scene would be so good and it would lead right into the next and the next and before I knew it, it was 3am! Best book hangover! If you are a fan of Rachel Van Dyken’s Eagle Elite Series, or other mafia books, you definitely want to check this out! I loved Bleu and Sin’s complicated romance in the original Sin trilogy, but I think I enjoyed Jamie and Ellie’s story even more. Endurance continues developing the seedy and somewhat archaic world of the Fellowship and their members. And, it’s a perfect mafia romance that begs to be one-clicked!

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An advance copy of this book was received. Receipt of this copy did not impact the content or independence of this review.

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Read the Sin Trilogy today! Just $9.99 or FREE on Kindle Unlimited!

 

 

The audiobooks are terrific too!

Excerpt

Chapter 2: Ellison’s POV

“I’m not as strong as you.” I don’t have an ounce of willpower when it comes to this beautiful man. Even now, I want to plead with him to have me. To claim me. To take me into the bedroom and make me scream his name over and over.

“I’m not as strong as you think.”

“You were strong enough to tell me no.” I ache in my chest as I recall him pushing me away. No man has ever hurt my heart the way Jamie did that day.

“You’re wrong. I’m so damn weak when it comes to you, Ellison.”

We’d be together if that were so. “We’ll have to agree to disagree on that one.”

“The Order takeover is scheduled to happen in three weeks. You’re going to belong to another soon after. And it’s making me lose my fucking mind.”

Is it wrong to be happy to hear him admit he’s going crazy? “You made your decision.”

“What if I don’t want to live the rest of my life not knowing how you look when you wake next to me in the mornings, or how you feel in my arms at night when we fall asleep, or how you smile in your sleep when you’re dreaming of happy things?”

He didn’t mention a word about claiming or marrying me. That means I fall into the third category of females in his precious Fellowship. Fuck-worthy. “You said you wouldn’t taint me.”

“You won’t be considered tainted in the eyes of the brothers if they don’t know we’ve been together. It would have to be our secret.”

We’d be hush-hush, keeping everything we share in the dark . . . like it’s dirty. Like it’s wrong. Like it’s depraved.

So, what? When we’re over, I have to watch him hop from one Fellowship whore to the next because he can never have a wife? I have to pick up my broken heart and simply move on with my husband? I don’t work like that. It’s not in my makeup.

“I deserve better.”

“You deserve the best.” My chest tightens when Jamie repeats the words my father spent years instilling in me.

“You think sneaking around with you behind the backs of the brothers is what I deserve?” I want Jamie but not that way.

“It’s all I’m able to give you right now.”

“But I want more.”

I want his body, but more than that I want his love. I want his forever. My feelings are stronger than ever so what happens when our time together ends and I can’t give him up?

A month with the man I love versus never knowing what it feels like to have him inside me. Never knowing what it feels like to wake with him beside me. Never knowing what it feels like to have him hold me while I fall asleep. It should be a no-brainer . . . except I know me. I’ll fall so deeply in love with him that letting go will wreck me.

“A month together and then we part ways? It’s just not that simple.” It would be excruciating to mourn the loss of him in my life.

“You won’t question how hard you’ve been loved when I’m done.”

When I’m done. I hate those words so much. “Don’t you see? That’s the thing. I don’t want to be done and a month together is only going to solidify that for me.”

“I don’t want to be done either. If I could give you the kind of protection you’ll need, I would claim you today and give you my forever. But I can’t do that, Ellison. It isn’t what’s best for you. And I’d rather not have you than place you in danger because I’m selfish and want you for myself.”

“I shouldn’t be forced to decide between a month or never with you. It’s not fair.”

“I know. But you are who you are. I am who I am. Neither of us can be changed. I’ve given my life to The Fellowship. I’m committed to serving my brothers as a physician. My contribution. It isn’t possible to go back on my vow.”

I can’t make this decision right now. I need to think about the consequences of saying yes. “When do you need my answer?”

“Soon. I’ll have some backtracking to do with Sin if you decide against it.”

“Backtracking?”

“One of The Fellowship women entered nursing school a year ago so she could become my assistant. I told Sin her motive wasn’t to help the brotherhood or me. I convinced him she was becoming a nurse to get close to me so I’d claim her.”

The thought of Jamie claiming another woman makes me feel like I’ve been punched in the gut. Twice. “Is that true? Is she doing it because she wants you?”

He shrugs. “Maybe. I don’t know.”

I hate the thought of another woman getting close to Jamie. Despise it. “Would you claim this woman? Marry her?”

“You already know I’m not in a position to do either of those things right now.”

Right now doesn’t mean he won’t one day. “Would she live with you at the infirmary?”

“I haven’t given it a bit of thought. Spending the next month with you has been the only thing on my mind.”

She’ll live there. I know it.

I don’t want another woman living with him. But what say do I have if we aren’t together? None. Jamie can take in any woman he likes.

“Don’t think about her. Concentrate on us and focus on how good we’ll be together. How good the next month will be.”

A part of me wants to tell him he’s a selfish dickhead for asking this of me. But then there’s another part that understands exactly what he wants . . . because it’s what I want too.

“Can I have until tomorrow night?”

“Aye. I can cover with Sin until you decide. Until then, would you be willing to take a look at the properties with me tomorrow with the real estate agent? We’ll probably need some ideas on how each might or might not work for what we’ll need.”

What we’ll need. He’s so damn confident I’ll say yes to this proposal. I want to.

“Sure. What time?”

“Appointment is at 11:00. Could you be ready to go at 10:30?”

“Yeah.”

“All right. I understand this is a big decision. It’ll require a bit of consideration, so I’ll go and leave you with your thoughts.”

I follow Jamie to the door, maybe hoping he’ll offer a sample of what’s to come if I accept his proposal.

His hand goes for the doorknob but then retreats. “I think you could use a bit of friendly persuasion.”

I don’t have time to respond before my back is pressed firmly against the wall. I think he likes doing this—trapping me so I can’t escape his embrace.

His mouth comes down on mine forcefully as his hands move to grip my hips. The tips of his fingers dig into the flesh of my skin, almost painfully, through my yoga pants. He’s so aggressive. God, he would be a beast in bed.

My arms wrap around his shoulders as one of his hands glides around to grasp my ass and pull my leg upward so it’s wrapped around his waist. He dry humps me, grinding his hard cock against my crotch, as his mouth leaves mine to travel down my neck. “I’ll make it so good for you, Ellison. You won’t regret our time together. I swear.”

And that’s the problem. I know he’ll make it good for me, and it’ll possibly be the happiest time of my life. I’d get a taste of the life I could have with Jamie . . . and then it would be over. We wouldn’t have a choice. When it’s over, it’s over.

But, I crave him. Emotionally, physically . . . I want so badly to blurt out that I’ll do it. So tempting. But I don’t.

This man will consume me.

Burn me.

Destroy me.

And what’s worse, I may let him.

 

About the Author

gaauthorGeorgia resides in rural Mississippi with her wonderful husband, Jeff, and their two beautiful daughters. She spent fourteen years as a labor and delivery nurse before she decided to pursue her dream of becoming an author and hasn’t looked back yet.

When she’s not writing, she’s thinking about writing. When she’s being domestic, she’s listening to her iPod and visualizing scenes for her current work in progress. Every story coming from her always has a song to inspire it.

Representation: All questions regarding subsidiary rights for any of my books, inquiries regarding foreign translation and film rights should be directed to Jane Dystel of Dystel & Goderich.

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