Review – Some Sort of Crazy by Melanie Harlow

 

 

When a psychic tells Natalie Nixon her life is about to be upended by a mysterious stranger, she laughs it off. After all, she has everything she’s ever wanted—a successful bakery, the perfect boyfriend, and the keys to her dream house.Who could possibly make her want to throw all that away?Then Miles Haas comes back to town.But he’s no stranger—they’ve known each other since high school. Plus, he’s only around for the summer, he’s still a shameless playboy, and he makes a living writing articles for a men’s magazine with titles like ‘Should You Bang the Boss’s Daughter? A Flowchart’ and ‘Butt Stuff for Beginners: A Field Guide.’He’s not the man of her dreams, and she’s not about to abandon everything she’s worked so hard for just for a little fun. Except he makes her laugh like no one else, smells like heaven, and wears panty-melting glasses.

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AMAZON US / UK

 

BFF K’s Review

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Friends, I suggest you clear your schedules. Miles Haas is here and you will want to give him all the attention he deserves as soon as you possibly can! I promise, you won’t regret it!

Miles and Natalie were childhood friends. They share countless memories including one “almost” night. They’ve remained friends, but never explored any other possibilities for their relationship. Natalie is hard-working, committed and incredibly stubborn. She’s focused on her business, her home and her life plan. When her long-term relationship hits a wall, she’s too focused on the expected outcome to consider other options. When it all falls apart, Miles happens to be in town to shine some light on her other possibilities.

Miles has the world by the tail. He’s independent, self-assured and maybe a little self-centered. But, at his core is a really wonderful man. He is scared of commitment and fears letting someone in when he might let them down. But, Natalie is his one consistent force; theirs is the most important relationship in his life. And at the foundation of it all is genuine affection, mutual respect, intense attraction and sweet devotion.

The two embark on a whirlwind affair that contains some unexpected revelations and more emotions than either were anticipating. Miles has some strong alpha tendencies that play out in some super steamy scenes!

There are cameo appearances from several of Melanie Harlow’s other stories and it is fun to see multiple series intertwine even a little bit. But, this is definitely a stand-alone. You don’t have to read any of the others to really enjoy this book. All in all, Some Sort of Crazy is a great contemporary romance that contains all of the right ingredients and finishes with a delightful happily ever after!

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An ARC was received in exchange for an honest review.

 

Also Available

 

AMAZON US / UK
Join Melanie Harlow and friends as they celebrate the release of Some Sort of Crazy Thursday, November 19th from 5-9 pm (EST)
 

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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 reading good books, she gets her kicks from TV series like Game of Thrones, Boardwalk Empire, Masters of Sex, Deadwood, Mad Men, and Downtown Abbey (although she wishes it were more HBO and less PBS). Melanie is the author of the FRENCHED contemporary romance series (FRENCHED, YANKED, FORKED, FLOORED) and the sexy historical series SPEAK EASY (SPEAK EASY, SPEAK LOW), 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 and two daughters.

 

Review – Monster Prick by Kendall Ryan

 

Over my dead body.

That’s what I told Gracie when she informed me of her plan to pick some random guy she met online to get rid of her pesky virginity.

If anyone is touching her, it’s going to be me.

I shouldn’t even be considering it, but I can’t get it out of my head: her, under me, begging me.

***
Arrogant. Cocky. Prick.

Those are the words I’d use to describe my older brother’s dangerously handsome best friend.

When he learned of my plan to kick off my white cotton briefs, ditching my good girl persona once and for all by losing my virginity to the first eligible bachelor I could find, he flipped out. Said over his dead body.

He says if anyone’s going to do it, it’s going to be him.

I hate that I’m even considering his offer.

But I am … I sooo am.

Ever since he suggested it, all I can think about is his cocky smile on those full lips as he’s driving in to me.

But if we cross that line … will I ever be able to go back?

MONSTER PRICK, a sexy romantic comedy, is a spin off novella from SCREWED, but can be read as a standalone, as it features a new couple.

BFF K’s Review

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Monster Prick, that’s exactly what Gracie thinks Hudson is! Gone is the sweet boy who used to leave her little surprises when he would visit her brother. Gone is the boy who used to ask how she was. He’s turned into a jerk and the last thing Gracie wants is to be stuck in his orbit.

But, one little mention of online dating to loose her V-Card and Hudson suddenly goes all caveman, insisting on teaching Gracie the finer points between the sheets. Their lessons end up being as much about love as lust and they soon realize that there’s more to the chemistry than just this starter course.

Gracie is sweet and innocent, but she’s not a doormat. Hudson is all alpha male, but has a gentleness that is mostly reserved for her. This is a super-fun, romance-filled, sweet, short story with a fulfilling happily ever after that you won’t want to miss! This was my first read from this author, but I’m already looking forward to more!

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An ARC was received in exchange for an honest review.

Excerpt

Hudson

“What if I could help you?”

I have no idea what the hell I was thinking. The words just leaped out of my mouth. Listening to Gracie talk about kicking off her granny panties and popping her cherry with some random Internet dick…I guess it drove me temporarily insane.

But there’s no taking back the idea now. Gracie sucks in her breath, blinking wide-eyed. “What do you mean?” she asks.

What do I mean? Here I am, sitting next to the world’s most beautiful girl—drowning in her eyes, her scent, the gentle puff of her breath on my mouth that begs me to close the distance. I know what I want, but I also know what will happen if I take it. My best friend will rip off my balls and feed them to me. And I’ll probably deserve every second.

But sweet Jesus, I’m pretty sure Gracie wants this, too, and that’s enough to blow my better judgment to pieces. All I care about right now is making her feel better. In as many ways as possible. And if her slightly quickened breathing, blown pupils, and flushed cheeks are anything to go by…

As an experiment, I dart out the tip of my tongue to wet my lips. Her darkened eyes drop like a magnet yanked them. Yeah, bingo. Having a little black book as thick as the dictionary has its advantages. I know damn well how to tell when a woman wants me.

 


About the Author

A New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today bestselling author of more than 18 titles, Kendall Ryan has sold more than a million ebooks and her books have been translated into several languages in countries around the world. She’s a traditionally published author with Simon & Schuster and Harper Collins UK, as well as enjoying success as an independently published author. Since she first began self-publishing in 2012, she’s appeared at #1 on Barnes & Noble and iBooks charts around the world. Her books have also appeared on the New York Times and USA Today bestseller list 23 times.

Visit her at: www.kendallryanbooks.com for the latest book news, and fun extras.

 

Review – The Game Plan by Kristen Callihan

TGP AmazonThe Game Plan by Kristen Callihan

A beard-related dare and one hot-as-hell kiss changes everything.NFL center Ethan Dexter’s focus has always been on playing football and little else. Except when it comes to one particular woman. The lovely Fiona Mackenzie might not care about his fame, but she’s also never looked at him as anything more than one of her brother-in-law’s best friends. That ends now.
Fi doesn’t know what to make of Dex. The bearded, tattooed, mountain of man-muscle looks more like a biker than a football player. Rumor has it he’s a virgin, but she finds that hard to believe. Because from the moment he decides to turn his quiet intensity on her she’s left weak at the knees and aching to see his famous control fully unleashed.Dex is looking for a forever girl, but they live vastly different lives in separate cities.
Fi ought to guard her heart and walk away. But Dex has upped his game and is using all his considerable charm to convince Fi he’s her forever man. Game On​.

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BFF K’s Review

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Ahhh, Dex! I am absolutely in LOVE with Ethan Dexter! He’s tall, rugged, bearded, handsome, smart, soulful, artistic and brooding. Dex is a fantastic alpha-hero, with a sensitive side. Dex cherishes his privacy and his friendships. He keeps most of his life and the multiple facets of his personality hidden from the world. But, no one knows Ethan Dexter like Fiona Mackenzie. And Fi is his perfect match; short, sweet, sensitive, emotional and tremendously loyal.

When Fi finds out that Dex has been carrying a torch for her for years, a passionate spark is ignited and it is oh so fun to watch the relationship unfold. Dex’s woo-ing of Fi is hot, hot, hot!

The locker room banter and sports aspect of the Game Plan and the entire Game On series feels authentic and real. The relationships and the dialogue are well written. I have enjoyed the Game On series so much! Dex and Fi join Gray and Ivy and Drew and Anna in a wonderful gang of happy couples. I hope there will be more to come in this series, but either way, I know that I’ll definitely read more books by Kristen Callihan!

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An ARC was received in exchange for an honest review.

Buy The Hook Up and The Friend Zone on Amazon today!

Be sure to check out BFF K’s Review of The Hook-Up, Book #1 in the Game On series!

Look for a review of Book #2, the Friend Zone coming soon! It was read on vacation this summer, loved it and I realized it hasn’t been reviewed for you yet. I’ll fix that soon!

About the Author

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.

Connect with Kristen Callihan

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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+

 

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.

 

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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.

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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.

 

 
 

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.

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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.

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 – 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.

 

 
 
Check out the other books in the Brightwater Series
 
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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 Allure of Dean Harper by R.S. Grey

Title: The Allure of Dean Harper (Allure #2)
Author: R.S. Grey
Release Date: Sept 28, 2015
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From: LilyNBlack@Gmail.com
To: JosephineKeller@VogueMagazine.com
Subject: You’re a flippin’ idiot
Good morning my dear, naive friend, I hope you’re enjoying a breakfast of regret and sorrow.
Why?
Because you sent me to work for Dean Harper, aka a control freak in a tailor-made suit. Sure he owns the trendiest restaurants in NYC, but c’mon Jo, his ego makes Kanye West look like the Dalai Lama.
He’s the type of guy that only hears the word “no” when it’s followed by “don’t stop.
”Working for Dean Harper would be like selling my soul to the devil…and before you say anything, I don’t care if the devil has punch-you-in-the-gut brown eyes and an ass to match. My soul isn’t for sale.
Regretfully yours,
Lily

The Allure of Dean Harper is a full-length standalone romance with overlapping characters from The Allure of Julian Lefray. Both books can be read separately. Chronologically, The Allure of Julian Lefray happens first. 

BFF K’s Review

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The Allure of Dean Harper is a BFF K Top 10 Read for 2015

I LOVE this book! The Allure of Dean Harper is a fun, hilariously-funny, endearing, blood-pumping, outstanding read!

Lily Black and Dean Harper are like oil and vinegar. It takes a whole lot of shaking to bring them together, but when they combine, the result is delicious! Lily has moved to NYC with big dreams of staking her place in the culinary world. She’s prepared to bust her a$# and work her way to the top. Dean Harper is already at the pinnacle of success in the restaurant industry. His accomplishments are the result of hard work, complete control and virtually no personal life. Both Lily and Dean are impossibly head-strong, hot-tempered, prideful, passionate people. They come together as intensely as they pull apart.

The Allure of Dean Harper is FUNNY! It is absolutely hysterical. I laughed until I cried. There were a couple of times where I teared up a bit; then I laughed some more. This is by far my favorite R.S. Grey book to date. (I love The Duet & Scoring Wilder, so that’s saying something!) There are 2 particular scenes – 1 on the yacht and 1 in the club – that had me howling with laughter. These are legitimate LOL moments!

This story is sublime. The Allure of Dean Harper reminds me of the perfect margarita – sweet and sour, sugary and salty, tasty and refreshing, and just one will never be enough. I can’t wait to read this again and I am so excited for everyone to have the chance to devour Dean and Lily’s story!

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

About the Author

I am a lover of books, chocolate, reality TV, black labs, and cold weather. Seriously, if I had it my way I would be curled up on the couch with all of those things…everyday.

I live in Texas where I spend my free time writing and reading. My favorite authors are Mindy Kaling & Jonathan Safran Foer. I’m a comedy geek and love all things funny. Women like Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, and Mindy Kaling are definitely the biggest inspirations for my writing, though I think my work tends to skew a bit smuttier than theirs.

 

Review – Some Sort of Happy by Melanie Harlow

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Skylar Nixon is a twenty-seven year old failed actress with no Plan B. After a humiliating stint on a reality TV show crushes what’s left of her childhood dream, she finds herself back in her hometown with no money saved, no college degree, and no confidence she’s anything but a joke—a small town starlet who couldn’t hack it in the big city.
When she runs into former classmate Sebastian Pryce, she can’t believe the hot body and chiseled jaw belong to the shy, troubled loner she knew ten years before. He’s not exactly friendly at first, and she’s heard the rumors about his tragic past, but something in his sad eyes intrigues her. She only wants to get to know him better.
Until the night she wants more—and takes it. (Hard and deep. Twice.)
Are they just two lonely people seeking solace? Or can a disgraced beauty queen and flawed, frustrated man find some sort of happy ever after?
**SOME SORT OF HAPPY is a full-length, dual POV novel, complete with a happy ending.**

 

BFF K’s Review

rating_4.5 I absolutely adored Skyler and Sebastian’s story; I have a feeling this is a book that will stay with me for awhile. The story is romantic and sweet, funny and poignant. I had butterflies and all the feels!

Skyler has had a rough go. She finds herself back in her hometown feeling more than a little beat up and lost. She’s struggling to find herself and determine what the future should hold for her. Skyler encounters a super-hot, somewhat mysterious man who she discovers is a former classmate all grown-up. I loved Skyler and her search for herself was honest and relate-able. Her compassion and love for Sebastian are heart-warming and endearing.

And, Sebastian….He deserves all of the good things. He’s this incredible mix of vulnerable and strong, dominant and bashful, demanding and needy. He has a challenging life and his personal demons threaten his happiness and his life with Skyler. There was a fair amount of angst involved with learning his story and watching the ups and downs his character experienced. I have so much love for Sebastian. He’s one of the most wonderful, complex characters I’ve encountered in recent reads.

Some Sort of Happy is another solid work from this author. Melanie Harlow consistently delivers great characters, interesting stories, heartfelt emotion and more than a few scenes that steam things up!  I really had no idea what to expect from the plot of this story and I found that it exceed all my hopes. (The cameo appearances of Mia and Lucas from Frenched were a fun surprise!) I love the story and these characters. This book ended on such a happy note for the pair and I can’t wait to see what the next book brings about for their lives and love!

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An ARC was received in exchange for an honest review.

 

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About the Author

Melanie Harlow likes her martinis dry, her lipstick red, and her history with the naughty bits left in. When she’s not reading good books, she gets her kicks from TV series like Game of Thrones, Boardwalk Empire, Masters of Sex, Deadwood, Mad Men, and Downtown Abbey (although she wishes it were more HBO and less PBS). Melanie is the author of the FRENCHED contemporary romance series (FRENCHED, YANKED, FORKED) and the sexy historical series SPEAK EASY (SPEAK EASY, SPEAK LOW), 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 and two daughters.
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