Bewitched by Daisy Prescott

Madison Bradbury isn’t interested in spells or magic, or anything hocus-pocus related despite descending from the original Salem witches. Her life as a Hawthorne College junior is boring. Perfectly so. That is until Andrew Wildes appears in her class–like a quiet, brooding hero straight from one of her favorite romances.

When a local witch convinces Madison to use a love spell on her crush, what happens next is more than magical.

A crush. A love spell. What could go wrong?

***Bewitched is a standalone, New Adult Romantic Comedy with a paranormal twist. This is a 15,000 word short story/novella.***

 

BFF K’s Review

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Need a quick little shot of Halloween feels? I am loving the little world created by Daisy Prescott. She creates wonderful, quirky, engaging characters in all of her books and this sweet treat is no different! I loved Madison and Andrew and I see such great potential with the gang from Hawthorne College.

Bewitched was a quick read with a complete story, but I’m hoping for more from Salem in the future!

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About the Author

 

Daisy Prescott bw
Before writing bestselling contemporary adult romances, I dreamed of being an author while doing a lot of other things. Antiques dealer, baker, blue ribbon pie-maker, fangirl, freelance writer, gardener, pet mom and wife are a few of the other titles I’ve acquired over the years.

Born and raised in San Diego, I currently lives in a real life Stars Hollow in the Boston suburbs with my husband, our dog Hubbell, and an imaginary house goat.

Twitter | Facebook | Author Goodreads | Pinterest | Instagram | Google+

 

All About Books on NET Radio Featuring The Collectors’ Society by Heather Lyons

I am so fortunate to have an incredibly vast group of really interesting and immensely talented friends! A few weeks ago, one of my good friends announced that she has been tapped to be the permanent host of a weekly show and podcast on Nebraska’s NPR station.

My friend, Pat Leach, is the Director of the Lincoln City Libraries AND the new host of All About Books on NET Radio. Because she’s a librarian and I LOVE books, I often talk her ear off about my love of reading. It is Pat who reminds me now and again that I should always read books that I love no matter what any one else thinks or says about it! She is a tireless champion of books and book lovers.

I was flattered when Pat asked me if I would join her on an episode of All About Books as a guest reviewer. She asked me to pick any book to review and discuss with her. I was absolutely giddy about it! We also chatted a little bit about reading and blogging. Today, my little episode of All About Books airs on NET Radio and the podcast is available online.

I am thrilled to review (again) The Collectors’ Society by Heather Lyons. I LOVE this book so much that I want everyone to read and love it too! And, I believe it is the perfect book for book lovers!

 

Check out All About Books

And, here is the All About Books Podcast:

 

I LOVE books! I LOVE talking about books! I LOVE sharing the books I LOVE! That is what has made this blogging journey so much fun. I hope that all of you are blessed with lives full of books and wonderful, insightful, supportive friends to share them with!

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See more of the amazing Pat Leach in action!

Don’t miss the first three books in Heather Lyon’s The Collector’s Society Series…

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THE COLLECTORS’ SOCIETY

Read BFF K’s Review of The Collectors’ Society

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THE HIDDEN LIBRARY

Read BFF K’s Review of The Hidden Library

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THE FORGOTTEN MOUNTAIN

Read BFF K’s Review of The Forgotten Mountain

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About Heather Lyons:

Heather Lyons writes epic, heartfelt love stories and has always had a thing for words. In addition to writing, she’s also been an archaeologist and a teacher. She and her husband and children live in sunny Southern California and are currently working their way through every cupcakery she can find.

 

 

 

 

Review – Until I Met You by S.L. Scott

Their love burned bright, white hot, and strikingly blue around the edges.

Some thought them careless.

Some thought them crazy.

No one approved.

Taylor Barrett was looking for answers in a universe that had abandoned him.

Jude Boehler flooded her dark world with charisma and mystery, drawing everyone into her hurricane.

It was a most captivating of love affairs. They were shooting stars, meteors in the sky, colliding to create a spectacularly wonderful reckless romance, leaving them breathless and tethered.

But that’s what Love does.

Their souls were exposed to the chaos, bare and vulnerable.
Can these two star-crossed lovers survive the madness that is life?

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BFF K’s Review

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I am blown away by the latest story from S.L. Scott. Until I Met You is S.L. Scott’s best book to date and an absolutely incredible read.

This book is full of angst and tension! I can still feel my heart clenching just thinking about it.

Until I Met You is an exceptionally unique story, unlike anything I’ve read. This is the story of star-crossed lovers who are destined to meet, destined to love, destined to burn brightly. But, can the burn of love be sustained without torching everything in its’ path?

Jude has secrets that will tear out your heart and drama in abundance. Hazel has his own complications. But, the one thing that both have is an absolute devotion to one another. They are committed to aiding one another even at their own expense. And, it just may cost them everything.

I want to delve into the details of the story and discuss all of the twist and turns, the heartbreak and the triumphs. But, I don’t want to give away a single detail. I want you to have the joy of uncovering the layers, bit by angst-filled-bit! I will guarantee that Until I Met You is a book so full of emotion and surprises you’ll be enthralled. Your heart will break and fuse back together only to break again. But, you’ll find yourself thinking about Hazel and Jude for days after the story ends.

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An ARC was received in exchange for an honest review.

I had a hard time picturing the characters in my head, but once I settled upon this dream casting, it absolutely clicked for me!

Excerpt

Entering his building made her feet lighter. She was being carried on the wings of euphoria, each step easier than the last. She wasn’t walking to her future. She was running toward it. Taking a breath, she held it, and knocked on his door.

The door opened and he stood there with his lips parted and confusion furrowing his brow. “Jude?”

Throwing herself forward, she jumped up and wrapped her body around his and kissed him. Then again. He kicked the door closed and held her against it. When they parted, they remained close enough to share their panting breaths. He said, “You’re here.” When he pressed his abs against her center her head knocked hard on the wood and he kissed the exposed skin of her neck where it met her shoulder.

He was strong. He was virile. “Hey,” she said, bringing his face up to see hers.

Lowering her down until her feet touched, he said, “I thought we were meeting at the park?”

“I couldn’t wait.”

His glorious smile chose to shine on her. “I’m glad you didn’t. Do you want to go to the bedroom?”

Giggling, she replied, “Yes, so much, but I need to talk to you first.”

“Okay.” He walked to the couch and she stared gob-smacked by his allure. Jeans that hung low. No shirt. Boxers peeking out the top, but a V that directed her eyes below the waistband. He was a tease as he stood there waiting for her to join him. Sitting on the couch, he patted it. “C’mere.”

She started walking on shaky legs. As she passed the bar, she debated if she should stay there to save her clarity. That seat next to him was tempting, but she knew she’d be flat on her back within seconds. So she hurried to his side and sat down. His hands were instantly on her.






S.L. Scott is a former high-tech account manager with a journalism degree pursuing her passion for telling stories. She spends her days escaping into her characters and letting them lead her on their adventures.
Live music shows, harvesting jalapenos and eating homemade guacamole are her obsessions she calls hobbies.
Scott lives in the beautiful Texas hill country of Austin with her husband, two young sons, two Papillons and a bowl full of Sea Monkeys.

She welcomes your notes at sl@slscottauthor.com.




Review – Seized by Love by Melissa Foster

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SEIZED BY LOVE
The Ryders #1
Melissa Foster
Releasing Oct 28th, 2015
World Literary Press

 

Lizzie Barber runs a successful flower shop by day and secretly hosts the Naked Baker webcast at night to help pay for her younger sister’s education. To keep friends and family from finding out about her sexy secret, she’s put her social life on hold until her sister’s education is paid off and she can stop filming the webcast.

Blue Ryder fell hard for Lizzie Barber when he met her a year ago, and he hasn’t been able to get her off his mind since. Everything about the feisty little brunette, from her tight bod to her seductive smile, cuts straight to his heart. Though Lizzie has turned down every invitation he’s extended—Blue is not about to give up trying.

Renovating Lizzie’s kitchen brings Blue further into Lizzie’s life, and the oven is not the only thing heating up. One night and one powerful kiss changes everything. But when Lizzie’s secret is revealed and the safe bubble she’s hidden in shatters, true love may not be enough to put the pieces back together.

THE RYDERS are the newest addition to the LOVE IN BLOOM series by New York Times & USA Today bestselling and award-winning author Melissa Foster. This 5-book hot contemporary romance series features alpha male heroes and sexy, empowered women. They’re flawed, funny, passionate, and relatable to readers who enjoy new adult romance, contemporary romance, and women’s fiction.

 

BUY NOW

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BFF K’s Review

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“Get ready for the ride of your life, sweetheart. The Ryder boys have got your back.” Blue speaks these sweet words to Lizzie, but you can’t help but feel like the heart of those words are also meant for the readers! Seized by Love is the first book in the Ryder’s series by Melissa Foster and I can’t wait for the rest!

Blue Ryder is just as swoony as his name suggests! He wears his heart on his sleeve. Blue is confident and caring and guided by loyalty and love. He is absolutely dedicated to the safety and happiness of those he loves. And, he’s set his sites on Lizzie Barber. After pursuing her relentlessly for over a year, she finally gives in and agrees to go on a date with him.

And, it’s everything she feared. Once she has given into Blue, there’s no way Lizzie can turn away from him. When he learns that Lizzie is the Naked Baker, it threatens the foundation of their relationship. But, can the love they feel for one another overcome the awkward introduction to her alter-ego? Lizzie developed the Naked Baker show to put herself through college, but she continues to support her younger sister. But, what will happen when the webcast threatens the relationships that mean the most?

I enjoyed Lizzie Barber. She’s sweet and sassy and super-smart. She’s dedicated to helping those around her and being the very best sister, business owner and person she can be. Blue knows that he’s drawn to her, but as he really gets to know her, he understands the depths of her character and who she really is. The birth and strengthening of their relationship is a fun exploration.

Seized by Love is part of the larger series, Love in Bloom. I have only read a couple of the books in the Harborside Nights spin-off series. All of these books are stand-alones and I don’t think you need to read the entire set to follow them. I enjoyed this first look at the Ryder family and I am looking forward to what’s in store for Duke Ryder in book two!

 

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An ARC was received in exchange for an honest review.

Giveaway

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About the Author

Melissa Foster is a New York Times & USA Today bestselling and award-winning author. She writes contemporary romance, new adult, contemporary women’s fiction, suspense, and historical fiction with emotionally compelling characters that stay with you long after you turn the last page. Her books have been recommended by USA Today’s book blog, Hagerstown Magazine, The Patriot, and several other print venues. She is the founder of the World Literary Café and Fostering Success. When she’s not writing, Melissa helps authors navigate the publishing industry through her author training programs on Fostering Success. Melissa has been published in Calgary’s Child Magazine, the Huffington Post, and Women Business Owners magazine.

Melissa hosts an Aspiring Authors contest for children and has painted and donated several murals to The Hospital for Sick Children in Washington, DC. Melissa lives in Maryland with her family.

Visit Melissa on social media. Melissa enjoys discussing her books with book clubs and reader groups, and welcomes an invitation to your event.

 

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads
 
 

Review – Reclaim Me by Ann Marie Walker and Amy K Rogers

 

Below is BFF K’s Review of Reclaim Me.

The BFF’s also have an exclusive interview with Ann Marie Walker and Amy K. Rogers.

Be sure to check that out too!

 
RECLAIM ME
Chasing Fire #3
Ann Marie Walker & Amy K. Rogers
Releasing October 20th, 2015
Berkley Intermix
As the heart-pounding Chasing Fire trilogy concludes, a dangerous entanglement leaves Hudson and Allie wondering how much they’re willing to risk for the love they can’t live without…
 
There’s almost nothing Alessandra Sinclair wouldn’t do for Hudson Chase. He was her first love, and she’s determined that he’ll be her last. But when the terrible truth Hudson has been hiding comes to light, Allie finds herself caught in a
deadly game of cat and mouse with a man from her past who’s determined to use what he knows to ruin Hudson. Now, the only way to save the man she loves may be to lose him forever…
 
Hudson has always known that the secrets he keeps could be his downfall, but he never expected them to put Allie’s life in danger as well. It’s time for him to come clean–before everything he’s ever wanted is destroyed…
 
Includes previews of REMIND ME and RELEASE ME, the first two books of the Chasing Fire trilogy.
 

BFF K’s Review for Reclaim Me

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I really really really want to tell you how this series ends. I’ve been holding it in for so long, I’m about to burst with excitement to dish with someone! But, let me just say, I couldn’t be any happier with this ending….

Hudson Chase had always feared that his past would be his downfall. He’s spent years working tirelessly to outrun his youth and create a whole new world in which he would be the victor. He would be powerful. Hudson Chase would be in control of his future. And, his idea of the future has always included Allie Sinclair.

Now that Hudson has had a glimpse of what his future with Allie could be; he refuses to settle for anything less. But, protecting those you love can be a difficult task when the skeletons start to spill out of your closet. Hudson is a fixer. He is certainly not accustomed to allowing others to fight his battles. Allie wants nothing more than to save Hudson; even if it’s from himself. This book finds Hudson and Allie torn apart, but they’re also together. They are united to defeat a common enemy. And, they’re both willing to sacrifice their own future and their own happiness for the other.

The Chasing Fire series has it ALL: romance, angst, steam, adventure, more steam, plot twists, a kick-ass hero, an smarmy villain, a deserving heroine and inspiring LOVE!

Hudson and Allie join my short list of perfectly-imperfect romance couples. This list includes: Christian and Ana, Gideon and Eva, Colton and Rylee, Edward and Bella, and you get the idea…..This is a series that I know I will read again. I’ve highlighted whole pages and I get all butterfly-filled just skimming over my favorite parts. The Chasing Fire series has become one of my go-to recommendations for an steamy romance and a perfect follow-up to Fifty Shades of Grey!

Be sure to check out our interview with Ann Marie Walker and Amy K Rogers in the latest installment of our That’s What She Said series. And, please come find me as soon as you’ve finished the series – I’ll be here on the blog, on Facebook or Twitter….we need to talk! Chapters 15-20…..SWOON – they’re some of the most beautiful, heartfelt, scenes I’ve ever read!

Enjoy the Chasing Fire series and all the feels of investing yourself in a wonderful romance and incredible characters. I have no doubt you’ll join the long list of readers who proudly proclaim to be a #HudsonChaser!

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An ARC was received in exchange for an honest review.
Praise for the Chasing Fire trilogy
“Exceptional…Seriously sexy and sinfully steamy. Can’t wait for more from this writing duo!”–New York Times bestselling author Tara Sue Me
“Walker and Rogers strike the perfect balance between blistering physical desire and heartfelt connections…”–RT Book Review  
 
 
Buy Now
Check out the Complete First Chapter Exclusively at

Excerpt

Allie bent to tuck her phone into the carry-on stowed beneath the seat in front of her. A shiver of awareness swept over her skin and she stilled. Hudson. She felt his presence just as surely as if he’d touched her. But despite the brief moment she took to prepare herself, the sight of him still took her breath away. He was standing in the aisle, the muscles of his chest and arms flexing as he shrugged out of his wool coat and handed it to the flight attendant. His hair was damp, no doubt from the snow falling outside, and when he reached up to run his hand through the unruly mane, his sweater rode up, affording her a glimpse of his honed washboard abs and the trail of dark hair that disappeared beneath his belt.

He glanced down and caught her staring. “See something you like?”

She ignored his obvious innuendo, choosing instead to address the much bigger issue. “What are you doing here?”

“Going after what’s mine.”

Giveaway

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About the Authors

Though thousands of miles apart, Ann Marie Walker and Amy K. Rogers are in constant contact, plotting story lines and chatting about their love of alpha males, lemon drop martinis and British supermodel, David Gandy. You can find them on twitter as @AnnMarie_Walker and @Amy_KRogers. 
 
 
Amy K. Rogers
Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

 

Ann Marie Walker
Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads
Start the Chasing Fire Series Today!
 
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 BFF K’s Review of Remind Me

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BFF K’s Review of Release Me

Review – Irresistibly Yours by Lauren Layne

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IRRESISTIBLY YOURS
Oxford #1
Lauren Layne
Releasing Oct 6th, 2015
Loveswept

Meet the men of Oxford magazine! In the first captivating spin-off of Lauren Layne’s Sex, Love & Stiletto series, a not-so-friendly battle of the sexes turns into a scorching office romance.

Hotshot sports editor Cole Sharpe has been freelancing for Oxford for years, so when he hears about a staff position opening up, he figures he’s got the inside track. Then his boss drops a bombshell: Cole has competition. Female competition, in the form of a fresh-faced tomboy who can hang with the dudes—and write circles around them, too. Cole usually likes his women flirty and curvy, but he takes a special interest in his skinny, sassy rival, if only to keep an eye on her. And soon, he can’t take his eyes off her.

Penelope Pope knows all too well that she comes off as just one of the guys. Since she’s learned that wanting more usually leads to disappointment, Penelope’s resigned to sitting on the sidelines when it comes to love. So why does Cole make her want to get back in the game? The man is as arrogant as he is handsome. He probably sees her as nothing more than a barrier to his dream job. But when an unexpected kiss turns into a night of irresistible passion, Penelope has to figure out whether they’re just fooling around—or starting something real.

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BFF K’s Review

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Irresistible!  This is a fantastic, fast-paced, super-sweet romance. All of the great elements of a romance novel are packed into one great story. You have a confident but caring hero who isn’t looking for love, but puts his philandering past to rest when he meets the perfect woman for him. And, of course, the perfect woman is cool! She’s hard working, understanding, and doesn’t have any idea how stunning she is.

So the storyline is fairly predictable, but there are a couple of interesting, character-driven, plot twists that will keep you turning the pages. The dialogue and banter are quick and fun. The cast of supporting characters is deep and rich and adds so much to the overall story.

The guys are all manly and model-good-looking, but they also gossip like women and love their partners fiercely. The women are beautiful and kind and look out for one another while having kick-a$% careers and keeping their men in line. I know it’s all too good to be true, but this is why I LOVE to LOVE books about LOVE!

If you’re looking for a fun read with great characters, a unique sports-news setting, and plenty of distracting, delightful storylines, you definitely need to pick up Irresistibly Yours. The only warning I have is that this book (although it is a quality stand-alone) will make you want to read the rest of the books coming in the Oxford Series AND the entire Stilettos Series, all by Lauren Layne!

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An ARC was received in exchange for an honest review.

Excerpt

But before Cole could make the call on whether or not to die curious about that damn notebook or risk rejection by Tiny Brunette, his best friend and co-worker was holding a fresh beer in front of his face.

“You look like you need it,” Lincoln Mathis said, sipping the foam off his own beer.

“How would you know?” Cole said. “You’ve been chatting up Jonas Leroy’s wife for the better part of four innings.”

“Had to,” Lincoln said with a little shrug. “She was bored. Her husband’s completely preoccupied with whatever’s going on with that ball down there.”

“As he should be at a baseball game,” Cole said pointedly.

Cole didn’t know why he bothered. His friend was already back on his cellphone, not the least bit interested in the game.

Lincoln Mathis looked like the type of man who should enjoy sports: tall, athletic, well muscled from their early-morning gym sessions. Carelessly styled black hair and friendly blue eyes that screamed guy’s guy just as loudly as they did ladies’ man.

But, much to Cole’s dismay, he’d never been able to get his friend to invest more than a passing interest in sports—any sport. Lincoln was always happy to tag along to a game when booze and women were involved, but ask him who he thought this year’s MVP would be, and he’d say Babe Ruth without the smallest hint of irony.

Still, tonight, Cole couldn’t exactly lecture Lincoln for not paying attention when he himself was having a hell of a time keeping track of the score.

Once more, his eyes found Tiny Brunette, who was . . . yep. Writing in her notebook.

“Hey, Sharpe. Do you know where they keep a fire extinguisher in here?” Lincoln asked, looking around the luxury suite of Yankee Stadium.

Cole tore his gaze away from the woman and her damn notebook. “What for?”

“If you stare at that girl any harder, she’s going to burst into flames,” Lincoln said, jerking his chin at Tiny Brunette.

“I wasn’t staring.”

“Don’t insult our bromance,” Lincoln said cheerfully.

“Keep running your mouth and we won’t have a bromance.” Cole forced himself not to look at the woman again.

“Hey, if you’ve got a crush on the wee lass, you can tell me,” Lincoln said, taking another sip of beer.

“I don’t have a crush. And wee lass? Really? You’re Scottish now?”

“Sometimes. Chicks dig the brogue. You should try it on your girl over there.”

“She’s not my girl. She’s just . . .” Interesting, Cole finished silently.

“Good,” Lincoln said, clapping him on the shoulder. “So you won’t mind that she left.”

Cole’s eyes flew to the seat where the woman was sitting, annoyed to see that his friend was right. She was gone.

“It’s just as well,” Lincoln said. “We have bigger things to focus on. Say, like how we’re going to annihilate the bastard who’s out for your job.”

“It’s not my job,” Cole said, carefully keeping the tinge of bitterness out of his tone.

“Not yet,” Lincoln said. “But it will be. Taking your competition out of the picture is the only reason I’m at this barbarian event.”

“Remind me never to take you to a hockey game,” Cole muttered.

Still, he appreciated his friend’s loyalty. And Lincoln was right. Tonight wasn’t about petite female baseball fans and their damn notebooks.

Tonight was about Cole’s professional future.

The key to that future? Oxford magazine.

Giveaway

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About the Author

 

Lauren Layne is a USA Today Bestselling author of contemporary romance. Prior to becoming an author, Lauren worked in e-commerce and web-marketing. In 2011, she and her husband moved from Seattle to New York City, where Lauren decided to pursue a full-time writing career. It took six months to get her first book deal (despite ardent assurances to her husband that it would only take three). Since then, Lauren’s gone on to publish ten books, including the bestselling Stiletto series, with several more on the way in 2015.Lauren currently lives in Chicago with her husband and spoiled Pomeranian. When not writing, you’ll find her at happy hour, running at a doggedly slow pace, or trying to straighten her naturally curly hair.
Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Don’t miss out of the Sex, Love & Stiletto Series 

where the “Oxford” guys first appeared!

AFTER THE
KISS (Book One) 
KINDLE | NOOK | IBOOKS | KOBO
 
LOVE THE
ONE YOU’RE WITH (Book Two)  
KINDLE | NOOK | IBOOKS | KOBO
 
JUST ONE
NIGHT (Book Three)  
KINDLE | NOOK | IBOOKS | KOBO
 
THE TROUBLE WITH LOVE (Book Four)
KINDLE | NOOK | IBOOKS | KOBO
 
 

Review – Dirty English by Ilsa Madden-Mills


A scarred fighter.

A girl with rules.

One night of unbridled passion.

There are three things you need to know about Elizabeth Bennett: she’s smart as a whip, always in control, and lives by a set of carefully crafted rules. She’s learned the hard way that people you love the most always hurt you in the end.

But then she meets Declan Blay, the new neighbor at her apartment complex.

A tattooed British street fighter, he’s the campus bad boy she’s supposed to avoid, but when he saves her from a frat party gone bad, all her rules about sex and love fly out the window.

She gives him one night of unbridled passion, but he longs for more.

With only a cardboard-thin wall separating their bedrooms, he dreams of possessing the vulnerable girl next door forever.

One night. Two damaged hearts. The passion of a lifetime.

 

BFF K’s Review

rating_4.5 I’ve spent the last week being a lunatic about this book! I’ve recommended Dirty English to everyone – friends, family and virtual strangers. It is that good! Dirty English is a modern love story based on Pride and Prejudice. Elizabeth and Declan are an absolutely fantastic couple and this book has all of the elements of a terrific New Adult novel.

Elizabeth Bennett has a scarred and tragic past. She has spent a couple of years protecting her heart, following some strict rules, keeping love away and pretending that she isn’t permanently damaged by one horrible boy. Elizabeth is also lovely, creative, genuine and hard working. Declan Blay has baggage of his own. He lost his beloved mother when he was young and struggles with a meaningful relationship with his overbearing father. Declan also has goals and ambition and pride in spades. Individually they’re broken. But, together their broken pieces are made whole.

A couple of other notes of extreme importance….Declan is British. Yes – that means an accent and fantastic British phrases. Declan is also a twin! Dax is one of the best parts of this book. He’s cocky and funny and a primary ingredient in this delicious story. I’m anxiously awaiting Dax’s story! (Yay for a #1 Amazon rating! Ilsa Madden-Mills said she would write Dax’s story if Dirty English reached #1 in the Amazon store and it did! I am so desperate for Dax’s story that I bought 5 copies for friends.)

I could go on and on with all the ways I love this story, but that just wastes time you could spend reading it. Which you need to do, right now! You will not regret a single minute you spend with Declan and Elizabeth. You’ll only wish your time together could last a little longer!

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An ARC was received in exchange for an honest review.

 

★★ PURCHASE Dirty English Today!★★

Amazon       Amazon UK

 

 

 

Excerpt

“Come to my apartment and spend the night with me.” I touched his face, my fingers stroking the softness of his sensuous lips. “Just one night and we can make this shitty world disappear.”

He exhaled. “A one-night stand?”

“Yeah.”

He cupped my chin. “Someone hurt you, didn’t they?”

My lips tightened. No one at Whitman knew about Colby except for Shelley and Blake, and I sure as hell wasn’t telling him. He’d judge me like everyone else had in Petal, North Carolina. “That’s none of your business.”

“I see.” His eyes searched mine until I felt like a bug under a microscope. “What if I wanted more than just one night?”

“Then your hands can let go of my hips now.”

He removed his hands slowly, the tips of his fingers grazing mine. “This may surprise you, but I don’t sleep with every girl I kiss.”

I’d been rejected. Again. “Blake said you got around, that you used—”

“And you believed him?” His voice was incredulous. “Dude is in love with you and he saw exactly how we looked at each other tonight—”

“Looked at each other? What are you talking about? You refused to dance with me and then you ran off with your girlfriend. Not to mention I just kissed you and you didn’t even care.” I threw my hands up.

“I wanted to fuck you the minute you walked in that party,” he snapped.

“Then why don’t you,” I bit out, tossing back my shoulders.

“You think you want me?” he said tightly. “You can’t handle me, Elizabeth. I can see it in your eyes. You’re scared of something, maybe not me, but something.”

My eyes went to his black eye.

He let out a harsh laugh. “Ah, that’s what you’re afraid of. You want the real truth? You told me tonight you didn’t like violence, but I’m an arsehole who uses his fists. That’s who I am.”

“What do you mean?”

His gaze was intense, dark and low, his face struggling as he fought to find the right words. “I’m in a fight club for money. I show up at warehouses and fight other blokes. Sometimes I beat them so bad they need medical attention. A few times, I’ve been beat to unconsciousness. I’m everything you need to stay away from.”

I inhaled, anger and lust and excitement all riding me. Anger that he was pushing me away, lust for the alpha male in him, and God help me, the fighting thing repelled me and excited me at the same time. “I don’t want to stay away from you. I want you to fuck me and stop making excuses for why you can’t.”

My words seemed to snap his taut restraint.

He pulled me back in his arms, his lips fusing with mine unerringly. His tongue plundered me in a sensual way my body had craved for years. I wrapped my arms around his neck, my anger morphing into all-out desire as he turned us and pressed me against the wall.

Yes, yes, this is what I craved.

A passion to remind me that I was real, not just some sad excuse of a girl who chose to exist on scraps of love.

Before I knew it, he’d shoved my robe off, his hands sculpting my shoulders, massaging them as he ravaged my mouth. I reveled in the warmth of his hand on my neck as his mouth skated down, kissing the hollows of my throat, sucking on my collarbone.

“Like this?” he asked, his voice dark and gravelly. “You want me to take you up against this wall?”

“Yes,” I moaned. Gone. Past caring as long as he kept his hands on me.

Out of control, my brain whispered, but I beat back the dark warnings as his warm hand found my breast and squeezed, his fingers rolling my nipple between his thumb and forefinger.

I gasped in pleasure and arched my back to get closer to his body, ignoring the fear that pricked at the surface.

The rules girl in my head stamped her foot and yelled at me. I ignored her.

But even if I wanted to stop right now, I couldn’t. My tongue tangled wildly with his, my hands pulled at his hair, spurring him on, his hand palming my breast and then tugging. Sharp sensations of need went straight to my core.

“Is this what you want? Something quick where we just take what we want and forget each other the next day?”

No. Not that. Not like the way he said it, like it was something dirty.

“Yes, like that,” I whispered against his shoulder, my mouth on his skin, tasting him as my teeth bit down.

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About the Author

New York Times and USA Today best-selling author Ilsa Madden-Mills writes about strong heroines and sexy alpha males that sometimes you just want to slap.

She’s addicted to all things fantasy, including unicorns and sword-wielding heroes in books. Other fascinations include frothy coffee beverages, dark chocolate, Instagram, Ian Somerhalder (seriously hot), astronomy (she’s a Gemini), Sephora make-up, and tattoos.

She has a degree in English and a Master’s in Education.

When she’s not pecking away on her computer, she shops for cool magnets, paints old furniture, and eats her weight in sushi.

 

You can stalk her on her website as well as get signed books: http://www.ilsamaddenmills.com

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Other books by Ilsa Madden-Mills:

VERY BAD THINGS

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VERY WICKED BEGINNINGS

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VERY WICKED THINGS

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VERY TWISTED THINGS

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Review – Best Worst Mistake by Lia Riley

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Brightwater Book Two
BEST WORST MISTAKE
Brightwater #3
Lia Riley
Releasing Oct 20th, 2015
Avon Impulse
The third sexy and emotional novel in debut Avon author Lia Riley’s Brightwater series set in the mountains of Northern California.
 
Sometimes the worst mistakes turn out to be the best…
Smoke jumper Wilder Kane once reveled in the rush from putting out dangerous wildfires. But after a tragic accident, he’s cut himself off from the world, refusing to leave his isolated cabin. When a headstrong beauty bursts in, Wilder finds himself craving the fire she ignites in him, but letting anyone near his darkness would be a mistake.

 

After her Hollywood life went up in smoke, Quinn Higsby decided to leave Tinseltown behind and returned to Brightwater to care for her ailing father. Spending her days in a small bookstore, her peaceful existence is up-ended by a fascinating but damaged man. Quinn is determined to not to be scared off by Wilder, not once she’s experienced the heat of his passions.

 

But when an arsonist targets the community and Wilder is accused, he must confront the ghosts of his past. Will his desire for Quinn flameout or will he be able to tame the wildness inside and rekindle a hope for their future?
 
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BFF K’s Review

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Welcome back to Brightwater! Lia Riley has created a wonderful fictional town full of quirky, delightful people and Quinn and Wilder are the perfect addition to the cast of characters from the first 2 books. (Best Worst Mistake is a standalone, but the characters in the Brightwater series are interconnected and you should definitely read all 3!)

This story has a Beauty and the Beast feel. Wilder is broken both physically and mentally. He returns to Brightwater with no plans, no hope, no vision for his future. He’s a cranky, damaged, isolated, curmudgeon. Then Quinn blows into his life. She stands up to him refusing to let him hide alone in his cabin. She challenges him. Quinn is almost equally as broken as Wilder, though her scars aren’t visible on the surface. Through her cracks shines light and hope, and she draws Wilder out of his solitary world. Wilder and Quinn have a whirlwind romance. There are secrets and truths about their pasts but they find a way to plow forward together.

Best Worst Mistake is a delightfully romantic story full of terrific characters and sweet sentiments. I have enjoyed all of the Brightwater Series so much that it’s impossible for me to choose a favorite. This is currently intended to be the final book in Brightwater, but I’m hoping that there might be more of these great stories from Lia Riley in the future!

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An ARC was received in exchange for an honest review.

Excerpt

It had been a while since he’d been in the company of any woman who wasn’t a medical professional or intimately involved with his brothers. Also, as much as he didn’t want to admit it, he had a type and this forward, strong-looking woman fit it right down to that thick wavy brown hair pulled back at the nape of her long sexy neck.

Necks were underrated female geography. He loved how they tasted when he kissed them there, how they smelled as he nuzzled.

Equally fascinating was her lush mouth, how the corner remained quirked on one side despite the natural pout, as if in perpetual secret amusement.

This woman was bright, spunky, and happy, despite her father’s miserable situation. His heart sank. He had nothing to offer someone like her, not when his whole world had burned to a cinder.

He shook himself inwardly, not moving a muscle. No point succumbing to the ugly truth, however true. Maybe he could pretend to be a normal guy for the night. Normal except for the scars, the missing leg, and the fact he hadn’t spoken to a living soul since Sawyer dropped off his groceries six days ago, and was tongue-tied around strangers at the best of times.

Shit.

What would Archer do? His younger brother was good with people, especially the ladies. He’d navigate this situation like a pro.

She gave him a tentative smile, probably because he was staring at her like a loon.

Compliments. Women like compliments.

“Your teeth are real white,” Wilder blurted. Goddamn it, the words hung over them like a comic strip balloon. He wished for a string to grab on to, so he could stuff the idiocy back into his mouth, swallow it down.

“Excuse me?” Her shoulders jerked as her lips clamped, clearly not anticipating the awkward flattery.

At least he hadn’t said how much he liked her neck. Yet.

Damn, this was a mistake. He wasn’t good with people. Didn’t like people. Didn’t need people.


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 About the Author

 

Lia Riley writes offbeat New Adult and Contemporary Adult romance. After studying at the University of Montana-Missoula, she scoured the world armed only with a backpack, overconfidence and a terrible sense of direction. She counts shooting vodka with a Ukranian mechanic in Antarctica, sipping yerba mate with gauchos in Chile and swilling XXXX with stationhands in Outback Australia among her accomplishments.A British literature fanatic at heart, Lia considers Mr. Darcy and Edward Rochester as her fictional boyfriends. Her very patient husband doesn’t mind. Much. When not torturing heroes (because c’mon, who doesn’t love a good tortured hero?), Lia herds unruly chickens, camps, beach combs, daydreams about future books, wades through a mile-high TBR pile and schemes yet another trip. Right now, Icelandic hot springs and Scottish castles sound mighty fine.

 

Website | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads
 
 
Check out the other books in the Brightwater Series
 
Read BFF K’s Review of Last First Kiss
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Read BFF K’s Review of Right Wrong Guy
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New Release – Tess by Ashley Pullo

Title: New Amsterdam: Tess (#1)
Author: Ashley Pullo
Release Date: Oct 15, 2015
Find on Goodreads

 

Inspired by the captivating stories from Humans of New York, and the narrative structure of a television mini-series, New Amsterdam chronicles the lives of three women defining love in New York City.
Tess – Thessaly Sinclair owns an artisanal honey shop in the historic Seaport district of Lower Manhattan. She’s savvy and charming, and appears to have it all, but a romantic hang-up is holding her back from experiencing true love.

 

On sale for $1.99 on Oct 15 & 16th

 

BFF K’s Review

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Ashley Pullo is the master of sweet, endearing, emotion packed vignettes. I’m a BIG fan of her other books, The Album and The Ballad. Her newest, Tess, did not disappoint.

Inspired by Humans of New York, this “short novel” is centered around sorta-random, every day people. But, they’re wonderful! They have interesting lives and careers and emotions. Like Pullo’s previous books, you can see how lives intertwine and the decisions/interactions of one character may impact another without even knowing it.

I think Tess is an exceptional heroine. She’s independent, smart, caring and hard-working. And, it is all of those qualities that attracts Levi who has the same wonderful characteristics. Their romance is quirky, real, honest and sweet. The cast of supporting characters adds to the overall charm of the story. (Meg and Seth are adorable!) The romance is absolutely swoony and a little steamy!

Tess is the first of the New Amsterdam series. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself craving peaches and honey. I’ll be waiting anxiously to read Julia and Darby!

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An ARC was received from the author in exchange for an honest review.

Excerpt

“How did a tomboy from Asheville end up in New York – Downtown even?” asks Levi.

Cracking her knuckles, Thessaly laughs nervously. This is that moment – the one where the truth becomes a part of the story arc. Turning into him, she admits, “I followed a boy.”

Levi’s mouth hovers near Thessaly’s lips as he whispers, “You don’t like to follow.”

Caught up in the sexual tension, Thessaly’s mouth twitches in anticipation. “And you?” she hushes.

“I nudge.”

New Amsterdam: Julia (#2) | Coming Nov 30, 2015
Inspired by the captivating stories from Humans of New York, and the narrative structure of a television mini-series, Ashley Pullo lends her unique voice to a new series releasing this fall. Combining her unmistakable wit and distinct writing style, New Amsterdam will feature a trio of petite novels chronicling the lives of three women as they define love in NYC.
Julia – Julia Pierce is a popular wedding columnist for a large NYC newspaper. She creates modern fairy tales by penning editorials about average couples. Cynical and cautious, Julia must define love by writing her own story.

 

 

New Amsterdam: Darby (#3) | Release date TBA
Inspired by the captivating stories from Humans of New York, and the narrative structure of a television mini-series, Ashley Pullo lends her unique voice to a new series releasing this fall. Combining her unmistakable wit and distinct writing style, New Amsterdam will feature a trio of petite novels chronicling the lives of three women as they define love in NYC.
Darby – Darby Wallace is an anthropologist reporting human interest stories for a trendy online magazine. She watches people, studies their habits, and then gives them an interesting narrative – but her own life is a spiraling disaster of bad decisions. Selfish and careless, Darby must seek the help of a mysterious stranger in order to understand the power of human connection.

 

About the Author

**Residing in New York with her husband and two children, Ashley Pullo is an author, an entertainment blogger, and an advocate for cultural literacy.**
Hey y’all!
NYC is an amazing place to find inspiration – the random and the ordinary that make up reality. My writing showcases inspired ideas, as well as my love for dichotomy, authenticity, pop-culture, and humor.
Dreams need chasers.

 

 

Review – The Sparrow Sisters by Ellen Herrick

Title: The Sparrow Sisters
Author: Ellen Herrick
Publisher: William Morrow
Pages: 384
Genre: Magical Realism/Fantasy
Format: Kindle/Paperback

 


With echoes of the alchemy of Practical Magic, the lushness of Saving CeeCee Honeycutt, and the darkly joyful wickedness of the Witches of East End, Ellen Herrick’s debut novel spins an enchanting love story about a place where magic whispers just beneath the surface and almost anything is possible, if you aren’t afraid to listen.

 

The Sparrow Sisters are as tightly woven into the seaside New England town of Granite Point as the wild sweet peas that climb the stone walls along the harbor. Sorrel, Nettie and Patience are as colorful as the beach plums on the dunes and as mysterious as the fog that rolls into town at dusk.

 

Patience is the town healer and when a new doctor settles into Granite Point he brings with him a mystery so compelling that Patience is drawn to love him, even as she struggles to mend him. But when Patience Sparrow’s herbs and tinctures are believed to be implicated in a local tragedy, Granite Point is consumed by a long-buried fear—and its three hundred year old history resurfaces as a modern day witch-hunt threatens. The plants and flowers, fruit trees and high hedges begin to wither and die, and the entire town begins to fail; fishermen return to the harbor empty-handed, and blight descends on the old elms that line the lanes.

 

It seems as if Patience and her town are lost until the women of Granite Point band together to save the Sparrow. As they gather, drawing strength from each other, will they be able to turn the tide and return life to Granite Point?

 

The Sparrow Sisters is a beautiful, haunting, and thoroughly mesmerizing novel that will capture your imagination.

 

Purchase the Sparrow Sisters

 

Harper Collins     Amazon     Barnes & Noble     Kobo     Google Play     Audible

Add to your Goodreads

 

The Amazon.com links used in this post are directed to the paperback copy of The Sparrow Sisters. This is an unusual case where the paperback is less expensive than the Kindle copy, FYI!

 

BFF K’s Review

 

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The Sparrow Sisters is an absolutely lovely book and the perfect pick for your fall book club meeting! I was captivated by the beautiful imagery and remarkable sense of place created by Ellen Herrick in this book. At first Granite Pointe is such an idyllic little seaside town. The residents and their surroundings are seen through the eyes of several of the characters. You learn about the quirks and nuances of Granite Pointe and its’ inhabitants. At the center of the community are the Sparrow Sisters and their nursery.

The mystical presence surrounding the Sparrows is woven through the first parts of the book and you’re left believing in the magic of who they are and what they can do through the plants that they grow in their nursery. The synopsis of the book hints at a pending tragedy and the build up creates a delicious sense of angst and suspense. There were a couple of times I was so nervous, I hesitated to turn the page or press play on Audible for fear of what might be coming.

Sorrel, Nettie and Patience are intertwined with the town and you soon realize that the success or failure of one is equal to the other. When Dr. Henry Carlyle arrives in Granite Pointe, he is immediately drawn into a passionate and life altering relationship with Patience Sparrow. When the tragedy strikes, the relationships of EVERYONE in Granite Pointe are tested and strained. I was so intrigued by the way that town turned on one of their own and the strife created from the discontent. It was too easy, almost unsettling, the way the witch hunt unfolded with the Sisters and Henry at the center. But, the devotion that the Sparrow sisters have to one another and their close-knit circle of friends/family is heartwarming. It’s critical for the women of Granite Pointe to take a stand and the Girl Power is fully awesome!

I had hoped for a little more magic and mystery, but the exceptional characters and relationships made up for any lack of alchemy. Herrick has created a delightful world full of beautiful passages and quirky characters. I enjoyed the entire book, both audio and written. The Sparrow Sisters has an immensely satisfying ending, but still leaves an opening to revisit these endearing characters. I’m looking forward to discovering what’s in store for Sorrel and checking in with all of the Sisters.

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This book was reviewed using a combination of audiobook and Advance Reader Copy. The audiobook was purchased by the reviewer, the ARC was received from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

About the Author

Ellen Herrick was a publishing executive in New York until she moved to London for a brief stint; she returned nearly twenty years later with three grown children (her own, it must be said). She now divides her time between Cambridge, Massachusetts and a small Cape Cod town very much like Granite Point.

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