Heir of Fire

Heir of Fire
Sarah J Maas
Sept 2nd 2014


Lost and broken, Celaena Sardothien’s only thought is to avenge the savage death of her dearest friend: as the King of Adarlan’s Assassin, she is bound to serve this tyrant, but he will pay for what he did. Any hope Celaena has of destroying the king lies in answers to be found in Wendlyn. Sacrificing his future, Chaol, the Captain of the King’s Guard, has sent Celaena there to protect her, but her darkest demons lay in that same place. If she can overcome them, she will be Adarlan’s biggest threat – and his own toughest enemy.

While Celaena learns of her true destiny, and the eyes of Erilea are on Wendlyn, a brutal and beastly force is preparing to take to the skies. Will Celaena find the strength not only to win her own battles, but to fight a war that could pit her loyalties to her own people against those she has grown to love?


I got this book through Netgalley. I was super excited that I was approved.  This is the 3rd in my number one favorite YA series. Number 2 in my top five any type of series.

I can not even begin to describe how awesomely amazing this book is. I have only ever read one other series that has had me this wrapped up in the world and that is Karen Marie Moning's Fever series. You guys should know by now, my number one book boyfriend is and always will be Jericho Barrons! I actually had this conversation with Sarah J Maas at RT where she proceeded to tell me that she LOVED those f*cking books! Which made me love her even more!

So we leave of Caleana heading to Wendlyn on a mission set up by Choal to keep her safe. She gets there and I have never seen her this broken. She has always been a little broken but still strong. Still kickin butt. but now? She just doesn't care. She's drinking and starting fights and not even trying to complete her mission. It broke my heart to see how down and just lost she was.

“Because I am lost,' she whispered onto the earth. 'And I do not know the way.”  

Then along comes Rowan. Oh how I love Rowan. Not as a potential love interest for Calaena but just as he is. He is just as broken as she is. Together they build each other back together and it is truly amazing to read about. The silent conversations between them remind me so much of the conversations between Mac and Barrons!

“I claim you, Rowan Whitethorn. I don't care what you say and how much you protest. I claim you as my friend.”  

Her effort and struggle with herself and her past that haunts her is the most amazing story of character development that I have ever read. There were points where I found myself crying; my heart breaking with hers and those moments where she triumphed were just as emotional. Caleana is a queen that I would follow to whatever end.

“Because she is dead!" She screamed the last word so loudly it burned in her throat. "Because she is dead, and I am left with my worthless life!”

For those who are worried about what is happening with Choal and Dorian, do not fear, there is plenty of parts with them in them. Dorian is at the castle still trying to control his magic. He becomes very friendly with an unexpected person and them together made me happy. Choal still misses Caleana like crazy.

 “He'd known, since the moment he figured out who she was, that while Celaena would always pick him, Aelin would not.”

“As for Celaena,' he said again, 'you do not have the right to wish she were not what she is. The only thing you have a right to do is decide whether you are her enemy or her friend.”

He is struggling with who his loyalties lie and what side of the line he is actually on and what is feeling for her are now that he knows exactly who she is. That moment when he decides and makes his choice made me cheer for him!

“He would see that world reborn, even if it took his last breath. Even if he had no name now, no position or title save Oath-Breaker, Traitor, Liar.”  

 There are so many new characters that I grew to love. Luca and Emrys; the people in Mistward. She tries so hard to shut them out and not care about them but they find a way into her heart anyway. Manon the Irontooth witch who I think we are supposed to hate but I actually really enjoyed reading about and her struggle with herself, who she really is and the feelings she is not supposed to have but still does.

“They have made you into monsters. Made Manon. And we feel sorry for you.”  

I cant leave out Abraxos. The wyvern with the warriors heart! Im not sure if I should be liking him but I do!

“He'd devoured the goat in two bites, then gone back to enjoying the wildflowers.”  

I seriously LOVED this book. So much left to accomplish and I cant wait for the next one. This book makes me want to go to Goodreads and take a star away from any book that I have given 5 stars to because none of them can even compare.

I give this book a huge 5 stars and if I could, I would give it more!

 

 

 

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White Collared: The Complete Series

White Collared is a FOUR part erotic suspense series based around a murder within the close-knit BDSM community. Kate is a law student interning when she is brought onto this case and her life is flipped upside down and she just might like it!





Thoughts on Kate Martin?

Catherine: Kate made for an intriguing lead female character. Her interest in the unknown piqued at all the right moments, and I genuinely loved he continued uncertainty of "WHICH GUY?" It seemed so real, and not as cut & dry as most books make romance out to be. Her darker past gave such an opportunity for growth within the series, and I truly enjoyed watching her grown from a shy, yet intelligent law student to the confident woman she is today.

Rachael: Kate Martin was a young romantic girl in book one. She seemed to be entranced with the idea of her boss, Nick, loving her. It was then I wanted Kate Martin to have a relationship with Nick. He seemed so gentle and kind and perfect for the sweet young law student Kate was. Kate's dreams of having both Nick and Jaxon having a ménage à trois helped me to see that "Kate Martin" indeed had a past and that it was not as cut and dry as just getting into trouble. As the book progressed I started to see that "Kate Martin" was the front she put out for the public to see, but it wasn't who she truly was. 

Thoughts on Nicholas Trenton?

Catherine: Honestly, I started off as TEAM NICK. You have a handsome, successful professional - what is there not to love? When you are having a rough moment in your life - he shows up with hot cocoa and donuts. There is no pressure from this purely vanilla man to do anything more than be there for you. 

Rachael: Catherine nailed it! I started off with Team Nick too as I didn't trust Jaxon at all. Nick had been so upfront with his feelings with Kate once he opened up to her. I can totally see why Kate had had dreams about being with Nick. He exudes the female "dream" of a  smart and powerful man, a lawyer a partner in the firm, makes good money, is caring, and would rescue a damsel in distress. He had told Kate he was a strictly vanilla man and was not into the "kink." To tell you the truth, Nick was my pick for book boyfriend as he seemed the  perfect for the Kate Martin. 

Thoughts on Jaxon Deveroux?

Catherine: I prefer to call him Jax. :) He is all consuming. Possibly murdered his wife? Yep. But, sexy none the less. While hating him for what everyone assumed he did, my hatred was reiterated when he showed an immediate interest in Kate. Seriously guy, is your wife's body even cold yet? Needless to say, I wasn't waving my TEAM JAX flag proudly. With that being said, I still had it hung! With each layer that was peeled back from this man caught my attention more and more. His attention to detail with those he cared about was admirable. One of my favorite moments of that was when he got Kate a chair in the initial meeting. 

Rachael: Oh Jaxon Deveroux. Just the mention of his name brings tingles up my spine in pleasure and in distrust. For the life of me I couldn't TRUST that Jaxsn didn't kill his wife. I don't know if it was because of of his "sins of omission" to both Kate and his Lawyer Nick. Jaxon Deveroux is a man of passion. He declared his Dominance early on to Kate by taking her on a his "Sub." As the book continues on we learn about Jaxon. His life is not what it seems and his layers of who he really is seem to be leading me up to believe that he indeed is a murderer. 

Honestly, would you have stepped up to volunteer to act as Jaxon's sub to solve the case?

Catherine: If I was single and Kate's situation - yes. Curiosity would have killed this Cat. 

Rachael: Heck NO! That man scared me. His power, his devotion to his life style, and the fact his wife was just murdered would have thrown me off.  As much I started to Love Jaxon because of his tenderness towards Kate I would have gone as far "acting" to be his Sub. No sex involved. Not even the Vanilla kind! To me Jaxon intrigued me, but a cloud of doubt still lingered in my mind. 

What wristband would you have worn?

Catherine: I would have to sport the switch one... I couldn't commit to Sub or Dom... both seem like fun positions to be in, so I would need to be able to alternate. ;) 

Rachael: The kink has always intrigued me. I have such a smart mouth I have a feeling I would be on the side of a sore behind 24/7 if I were a Sub. With that said; I couldn't be a Dom either. I need a man to throw me down and show ME he is in control too! I guess I would have to say that I would have to be a green wristband. If not that then I would be the  a black one one day and a white the next!

What are your initial reactions when you were introduced to the BDSM community?

Catherine: Personally, I have always held an open mind with individual sexual preferences. I knew very little of the in's and out's of this community, and Shelly approached the topic in such a way that was erotically informative. :) I was not left with unanswered questions about topics approached, and yet it didn't feel like I was googling what certain things meant. I am not sure you could give that skill set to many : ABILITY to write an EROTICALLY INFORMATIVE romance. Shelly killed it! 

Rachael: Holy Fruitcake Batman! People actually get off on doing this kind of stuff!?!? That was Rachael's introduction to the BDSM lifestyle. I just didn't get it really after reading FSOG. I liked the idea of a kinky vanilla relationship, but never really understood it! Then I met Shelly Bell who introduced me once again to the BDSM world, but unlike my FSOG experience I actually understood WHY people like Jaxon needed to live his lifestyle the way he did. Shelly took the time out to explain and introduce us into the world of BDSM and not just the cutesy stuff. All of the hard core stuff too!  My husband and I have our own relationship which is private and beautiful, but  I have an open mind about people and their lifestyles After reading about different types of relationships described in Shelly's books this was VERY eye opening for me and not in a bad way. I think the BDSM community is a misunderstood community by the public because of ignorance, or to put it nicely a lack of information about how people enjoy their own sexuality! With this said Shelly Bell  "eye smacked" me into opening my eyes to a VERY WELL WRITTEN, informative, and erotically romantic side of the BDSM community. I agree with Catherine your books left me ties You KILLED IT! 

YES OR NO: Were you correct in your assumption of the ending? 

Catherine: No. While I was correct on certain aspects of the story, the BIG ending took me for a spin! Bravo Shelly, Bravo! 

Rachael: There is no single answer to that question! That 's a "does this dress make me look fat" question! My head told me Jaxon wasn't a murderer, but my heart belonged to JAX  and to Nick. I was torn! The way this book ended was nothing short of a complete and utterly shocking ending; where in my mind all fears were transformed  into 7 different shaded of beautiful and understanding love!

Without spoilers, how would you describe this book to someone who asked?

Catherine: An incredibly suspenseful murder mystery that is tied up (pun intended!) in the close knit BDSM community. Shelly doesn't shy away from the kink in the four part serial. HOT HOT HOT. Every page will leave you wanting to know more. This is not a book I would suggest to the easily blushed or weak-hearted. I would also strongly suggest that you set aside some time to read it in it's entirety. You will NOT be able to put it down once you start! 

Rachael: As I reviewed this book I came up with new words because words alone could not describe how amazing well these books were put together! With the ending of each novella I was tired up in knots over how the next novella would begin and end. So here it goes: Shelly Bell's "White Collared" Series is a must read, eye opening, heart confusing, faith building, trust promoting, erotically sexual , mysteriously arousing novel that will leave your stomach tied up in knots (all puns included)  and more than a few changes in panties required!  It is well written, informative, mysterious, and will leave you guessing who did what for what reason until the very last page! I enjoyed these novellas so much that I "tricked" my Kindle into what time it was so I could actually get the download on EDT instead of my own time zone! Now that the series is complete, you will not be able to tear your eyes away for long, so prepare yourself with all of your "belongings" before you start reading and be ready for a few cold showers just to cool yourself off!

Rating?

Catherine: Series in it's entirety would receive a HUGE BLINKING STAR-STUDDED FIVE FROM THIS GAL!!! Hands down a recommendation to anyone I know who enjoyed Cynthia Sax's Seen Trilogy! 

Rachael: Shelly Bell gets from me; a had me tied up in knots until the very last page, well deserved, 5 eye smackingly, erotically steaming stars from this simple girl who is utterly enthralled with how Ms. Bell has turned this simply vanilla girl's thoughts around and having me embrace her White Collared Series begging for MORE! I highly recommend this series to anyone who has an open mind, loves a lot of mystery, and has an open heart to put more than one person into it for all different kind of  reasons! 
All I have to say is  that this book will have you screaming Mercy, wanting more because of our Greed in natures, waiting Revenge for those who were wronged, and in the end knowing Passion rules all!

Catherine: Rachael: I loved your use of the titles there!!! 

How does Jax differ from Jaxon?

Rachael: Jaxon is who the world sees. He is the Entrepreneur and Venture Capitalist. He is the rich business man who is "normal in ever way." He is the Husband of the late Alyssa Deveroux. Jax is one sexy Dominate who must have total submission from his Sub. He is the person that drove me insane in this book. His Dominance had me wanting to be his Submissive not because I would enjoy the pain with pleasure, but because of his heart and soul. I LOVED Jaxon, but truly I was in LOVE with JAX!

Catherine: I really enjoyed aspects from Jax and Jaxon! The well mannered Jaxon who offers a chair and the dominant, yet loving JAX who offers a collar! Both sides offer something to the relationship and both offer a different side to the love he feels for her. 

Same Question applies to Kate Martin:

Rachael: I saw Kate Martin as a pill popping, anxiety filled, sweet girl with a troubled past. When Kate turned into Katerina Martini Jax's Submissive; I saw a woman with a past, but a strong woman. She might be a Submissive, but not in her work. Katerina was my favorite character in this book. She made me realize how important it is to investigate the truth, to never give up hope, and that being wrong doesn't been you have to hide and bury yourself in guilt or hide from who you are. 

Catherine: Rachael, you said it so well. Kate was shy and lacked confidence. When it came to Katerina, her desire to prove his innocence or guilt was so strong that all her KATE insecurities were washed away. 

Would you be able to get over the betrayal of your  friend?

Rachael: The serious betrayal of a  friend is found in many different forms in this book. Every character betrayed their friend in one way or another. I find that in certain circumstances that betrayal can be the ending of one life only to start anew. Forgiveness doesn't mean forgetting. 

Catherine: You made such a great point. I find that I used to hold grudges so much longer in previous years. But, I have learned that in order for ME to heal from it, I must forgive. And since my anger won't change the betrayal, it really is a waste of energy. The amount of betrayal in this book was intense to say the least. So, I will side with you and say that Forgiveness does not equal Forgetting. 

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Pierced

Sydney Landon embarks on a new project, and I couldn't be more thrilled to share the Lucian & Lia Trilogy with y'all. If you are familiar with Sydney's Danvers series, this is definitely not a comparison. Pierced is about two lonely souls who both have shattered pasts. Lia is a product of an unloving and abusive relationship and gets out as soon as she is able. Slowly, with time, she learns that family is not always blood. Lia struggles to make it from paycheck to paycheck until she can finish school, when her job at Date Night leads her into the companionship of Lucian Quinn.

"No way! You're a god!" 

I slap my hand over my mouth in horror. 

Did I actually say that aloud?

He gins, obviously highly entertained by my slip of the tongue. 

"Why thank you, Miss Adams; that is very flattering. 

Is there any particular reason that has led you to that conclusion?"

The gradual revealing of the intertwining stories leaves you eager to get to the next page. I found my eyes trying to jump ahead on more than one occasion. I enjoyed learning bits and pieces of the puzzle throughout the book, while I pieced them together. Besides Luc and Lia - you meet Monique (ugh!) and Aidan and Lia's best friends: Jake and Rose! Oh how I adore Rose. "Rose had a way with words, and ogling men is her favorite pastime; she is like June Clever with a dirty mind." Rose and Lia were best friends and other than Debra (the woman who saved her after escaping the hell that was her mother and stepfather) she was the only one who knew the severity of her history. The ease of their friendship is admirable and something every girl desires in a best friend...even if she finds herself cutting deals to check out your man!  "I pledge to ogle him discreetly. He will never notice when I stare at this ass and his crotch. This will be a total covert mission. I'm just doing this for you."

As the relationship progresses between Luc and Lia, you learn so little and yet so much from their interactions and countless conversations. They fight, argue and ignore one another like an normal couple.

"Wow, in just a few days, I've gone from being a God to you to being told to piss off. How the mighty have fallen."

As they learn about each other, the protective side each one develops for the other is intense to say the least. "I barely know this girl, but I want to fucking kill on her behalf." I will admit that my favorite aspect of their relationship is the humor used to help with difficult situations, and to cope with the fake that they have never felt the ease and playfulness that a normal person was able to experience. The shit she finds around my house to put her hair up in is fucking hysterical. Watching this beautiful butterfly come out of her cocoon fascinates me. I am enthralled by her and scared out of my ever-loving mind. During the short period of their dating thus far, they have grown to know what the other one needs, and takes care of that need. (Even if it isn't necessarily what the affected party desires!) There was one bonus, though; she is fucking adorable on Nyquil. I don't think she even remembers how she would talk ninety miles a minute and suddenly pass out in mid-sentence. I swear, one moment, she was asking me a question and before I could get the answer out, she was snoring with her mouth hanging open. One of the funniest things I've ever witnessed.

I can't tell you much more of the story without giving away too much of the story, and that is not my review style! So, I will leave you with this:  Sydney found a gem with this story. You are left wanting... no needing to know more from every character you encounter. At times throughout this story, you find yourself close to tears and full of sympathy - and then with a crack like "So, I guess we aren't hosting a Mother's Day lunch this year?" you are smiling while remembering the family, friendship and love that is forming throughout the growth of these characters.

My last review offered a wine pairing, this review will offer a more educational add-on: A new word for your vocabulary. 

FUCKIONSHIP

Her smile widens as she says, "So, let me get this straight: my mostly-virginal friend is having a fuckionship?"

"A what?" I sputter out. 

"A fuckionship. You know, a relationship that is only about fucking..."

As always, we will end with SHOWING OUR LADY SOME LOVE!!!! 

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Fall For Me

This is the 3rd book in the Danvers series, and Sydney Landon has not let me down yet! In this installment you get a deeper look into the lives of Suzy's sister, Beth and Gray's brother, Nick. You got the hint that their hate-filled relationship in the previous book was bound to make for some hot sex, but a relationship - both parties had their doubts.

This book dove deeper into some serious topics, and I think the author handled them very well. I respect her for not breezing over the severity of eating disorders and self image. This is a huge issue in our society today, and while many will find it a mood killer while reading a romance novel - I loved it! I was hoping she would accept help, and rooting for him to be strong enough to handle a woman not ready to be helped.

I adored the honest reactions each had to the pregnancy. I found myself laughing out loud when he made the mistake at telling her she'd be beautiful at any size. I am almost positive this is a word for word conversation from 90% of all first pregnancies. My husband, thankfully, learned after #1. Besides the incredibly fun road to a well deserved HEA, you get to visit with old friends:

• Jason & Claire JUMP to the chance for some alone time while partnering with Beth in proving Nick is
  
  going to run when the going gets tough. A couple of stinky situations and this night ends with promises of stripper moves, but not before snapping an evidence shot of two 'parents-to-be' who looked to have had a rough night! 
• Suzy & Gray are my favorite couple so far! Full of sass that Suzy and I can just see Gray rolling his eyes saying, "Yes Sweetie." I love the advice the men share amongst themselves as if the women don't know what is going on. Suzy & Gray have some life changing surprises of their own in this sweet book - and I was so elated for them. 
• You get some baking time in with the Merimon parents.
• The Dentons will probably make you feel a little bad about yourself. 

And then you get sparks of a new interest, which I hope to be the basis of the next Danvers book. Virginal Ella is so out of place with her group of friends, but she is finding her spot. 

"Oh man, I just love them. I didn't know Clair had a horse, though."

Beth's mouth dropped open in shock. Surely, Ella wasn't that naive. When Ella doubled over in laughter and said, "Got ya," Beth had to admit that her shy little friend had certainly come a long, long way.

Declan is a blunt and straight forward man who doesn't have pointless conversations stop to take notice of the little things people like, except for when he comes to Ella. Everyone sees the way he looks at her, but what about his past has him reserved? Was it something in his military background? His childhood? A broken heart? You don't know, but Ella wants to find out.

Overall, I rode a roller coaster of various emotions throughout this book and while it can be taxing on a lady's heart, Sydney Landon wove the story together so seamlessly - you couldn't help but finish the whole book in one sitting. Another GREAT job Sydney! Still waiting for a position to open up for me at Danvers! (My husband probably wouldn't be too pleased with me working at a place that apparently only hires males that can be described as a stallion, sex on a stick or those who can't even be given the time to unbutton their shirts - it just gets RIPPED off! YAY! 

And finally, a FIRST for our blog: I am recommending you pair this book with a Moscato Citrus Berry Cocktail. :) 

As always, we will end with SHOWING OUR LADY SOME LOVE!!!! 

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All Lined Up

All Lined Up was a Cora Carmack first for me. And I have to say, it was a fun and quick read. The characters were likable and real. I think that is the appeal to me about New Adult. They are still at that age in their lives where it is not all figured out. Your lead male is not a billionaire with all these toys to swoon a woman at his disposal. You have two NEW adults trying to find themselves and love. 

Dallas has lived in the shadow of her father's Texas football coach fame her entire life; finally leaving that shadow she enrolls at Rusk University. Conveniently, her father is offered a coaching position there. It was bad enough that Dallas would be attending school with the only boy she had ever dated, but now she is still in the shadows. And as you know, football is HUGE in Texas. 

Enter Carson a 2nd year transfer from a local community college. He is determined and focused to make something of himself and not let him be distracted by drinking and most importantly - girls. And then she walks out onto a balcony above him and his red-headed daredevil jumps down to avoid the jerk of a football player trying to score. "Oh shit. Shit taking a shit on shit." Distracted already. Luckily this smart-mouthed girl was honest to a fault and made it very clear of her lack of intentions with him. Which was good since, "God, do they make WD-40 for flirting? Because I am rusty."

A friendship emerges into something more with lots of fun bumps along the way. I cannot wait to read the rest of this series. I enjoyed the supporting cast tremendously. I am picking up her 'Losing It' series as soon as I return home, and I am sure I will devour those as quickly as I did this book! 

A strong FOUR STARS for Cora Carmack! 

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the Bet

The Bet was my first venture into the writing world of Rachel Van Dyken. And it definitely will not be my last. The Bet was a book I received in my bag during the Fantastic Day Party at RT. The cover was appealing to the eye, and the back cover blurb left me wanting to read it right then. I have been on a NA kick for a while now, and I was pleased with the 1st in this series.

The story starts with a flashback to where you meet two brothers (Travis & Jake) and their friend, Kasey. Jake obviously crushing on Kasey while his older brother, Travis, sticks to the less effective way to show his feelings: pulling ponytails, tripping her and throwing rocks.

You then fast forward to present day, where her now EX, Jake is asking her the favor of a lifetime. Pretend to be his fiance for his Grandmother's sake. Enter her worst nightmare, Satan! Aka Travis, and he isn't too keen on the idea of his Kasey playing along with this plan of Jake's. "The woman was walking sin, curvy where guys loved it most." He isn't too pleased with Jake in regards to this plan either! "Um, she's going to do more than die if she finds out you're lying. Ten bucks says she has a stroke, then pleads with God to let her come back to kill you herself. Trust me, if anyone's got the in with God, it's Grandma. Geez, He'd probably help her plan your demise."

I will admit, I am a sucker for second chance romances and I genuinely was rooting for Jake for about TWO seconds. The second Travis strutted his sexy behind into the story, I was a goner! And that says a lot for the author, because I am a hard-core first love gal! Travis is this genuine, sweet guy who overcame a stutter that prevented him from ever explaining his need to rescue her. Plus, he has a captivating humor and is full of sarcasm. "Yes, twenty-three years old and cheerleaders still frighten me. All that pep, all that joy, it's not normal."

Kasey is wondering how she never noticed just how hot Travis was. Maybe she was too wrapped up in his little brother to realize that "Truly he was sin incarnate. Big shock there." The story has several different factors that help it build into the big picture at the end. First love, friendship, family, death and facing the hard stuff. I love that you learn a lot about each character, and you truly feel a part of the Titus family, just like Kasey did growing up. During these pages, I found one piece of advice that stuck out and touched my heart so deeply, I had to write it down, highlight it and print a copy to keep folded in the pocket of my Kindle: "Sometimes, when life gets hard and people make you angry or even when you're scared, the best response is laughter. Laugh in the face of your fear, in the face of what scares you the most. It's the only way to get you through the things that bring you to tears." So simple, and yet so profound. That describes Travis Titus as well.

A love blossoms with the help of an inattentive fake fiance, a meddling Grandmother and a man who never gave up on what he wanted his entire life. You are eager to read the next page to find out if they ever do get their chance at happiness.

"I can't believe the one time I get you all to myself, I get an allergic reaction."
"At least you didn't stutter," Kacey offered.
"Wow, that was so incredibly helpful. I feel like such a man."


Overall, I gave this book a strong FOUR stars. Grandma channels Betty White in a way that made me giggle. I adored her new fling and how much she loves her family. She is truly the glue that holds the Titus Team together. I look forward to the rest of this series with hope that Jake finally meets the one who can make him change his ways.

Before I let y'all go, I need to leave you with my favorite quote:

"He blew her a kiss and then smacked her on the butt as he walked out of the bathroom. Cocky one, Travis Titus. Who would have ever thought that the little boy with the stutter had game?"

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Book Nerd's Dozen: Robyn Peterman Style

In honor of Robyn Peterman's latest release, COP A FEEL (sadly, the 3rd and final book in the Handcuffs & Happily Ever After's series!) we are spotlighting Robyn in our newest edition of the Book Nerd's Dozen. We were honored to meet this beautiful lady in New Orleans. She also put together an amazing breakfast for her fans at Cafe Du Monde! This woman is blessed to have the ONE & ONLY Steve Zahn as her very own "HOT HUBBY" and she is so sweet to us crazy fans! On to the interview! 

1) Waiting in line at Starbucks, what are you ordering? What name do you give? Robyn: I don't drink coffee! I'm a total Coke Zero Cherry girl in the morning... but if I ordered, I'd give the name Shoshanna Le Hump.

2) Who was your first book boyfriend? 

Robyn: My first book boyfriend would have been Rhett Butler. 

3) Last song you couldn't get enough of?

Robyn: Anything Maroon 5. Drives my kids NUTS!!!!

4) At this very moment, do your socks match?

Robyn: I'm wearing flip flops, but I always match my socks!

5) Dog-earring: okay or unforgivable?

Robyn: Okay. I do it and I make no apologies. 

6) What is your super power?

Robyn: Flight. 

7) Dog person or cat person?

Robyn: I am both. I collect strays. At the moment I have four dogs, seven cats, 3 goats and three horses. PS I live on a farm.  

8) Nickname?

Robyn: Rob

9) If you had to leave one piece of advice for the next generation, what would it be?

Rob: No regrets and if you're going to lie you better be really smart... the truth is much easier to remember than a lie. 

10) Tell me about your best author fangirl moment! (Either one you had or one someone had with you!) 

Rob: A lovely gal came up to be at RT and started to cry and shake. She told me how happy my books made her and that laughing was her therapy. It humbled me and delighted me. 

11) Are the men in your stories your ideal? Do you write them based off of someone? 

Rob: My heroes are all based on my Hot Hubby. He'll roll his eyes if he reads this!!!!

12) Now, this one is important... Do you return your buggy to it's proper location after grocery shopping?Rob: Yes I do!!! Always. Drives me nuts that people can't walk ten steps to put it up!!!And finally, for the last and final question in your Book Nerd's Dozen:13) Can you leave us fans with some juicy tidbit? A secret? (WE WON'T TELL!) A pet peeve?Rob:Hmmmm, I cry easily…commercials, movies, TV, anytime someone says something great about my kids. I hate being late and my kids are my finest accomplishment!

Cat & Robyn @ Cafe Du Monde

Kris & Robyn @ Cafe Du Monde

Cat & Robyn @ the Marriot

Seafoam

 We met the FABULOUS Mark Henry while we were in New Orleans for RT. He, along with some other amazing authors, met some crazy fans for breakfast at Cafe Du Monde. Before then, I only knew this guy from his snark and humor he brought to some FB parties I have attended. He immediately was added to my TBR shelf. He will always be associated with BIRD POOP coffee and signing tampons for me!!! (HE ROCKS!)


I just read his short, Seafoam and OMFG is about all I can say to describe this immensely WTF book. All good, of course. Shorts to me seem more difficult to write since you have such limited to space to get your point across. (Who knows? I don't write... I read!) From a reader, I don't find a lot of shorts that I love. Most are fillers, and when you find a hilarious, demented and twisted short all in ONE, you have to give credit where it's due.

A review of a short isn't really possible without giving away too much, and since I love lists - I am gonna list what you get!

• Aliens
• Foot Fetishes
• Dysfunctional Addiction Support Groups
• A decent amount of stalking
• Nice shoes
• Off the charts level of humor
• Finger Fetishes 

Mark Henry is the author of several books. (All of which now reside on my TBR shelf because of the 26 page short, Seafoam!) 

The Amanda Feral series: Henry's rollicking debut novel is a wonderfully fresh, brutally hysterical paranormal romp that is filled with bloodsuckers, horny--and horned--devils, werewolves, celebrities, and PR-obsessed shape shifters.

The Carnal Staircase trilogy: A couple on the verge of divorce begrudgingly agree to an unorthodox marital retreat. Despite warnings and portents, Hilary and Jack travel to the remote Washington scablands, braving a strange religious demonstration to arrive at Balustrade, an oddly voyeuristic couples program.

OTHERS:

Stocking full of Coal

Velveteen

Park John

Let's Show this Man our STALKING SKILLS!

Mark's Website

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Sway With Me

My first encounter with the intensely talented Shelly Bell was through the White Collared series. (EPIC series by the way!!!) She warned me that this book was 'Light & Fluffy' compared to the kink that filled White Collared. Needless to say, I fell in love automatically as her words flew off the page into a movie in my eyes as I read.

Ryan Sullivan, born and raised with a silver spoon in his mouth has some secrets in his closet. "He didn't believe in luck, but if Uncle Alexander came through for him, he'd believe in luck, fate, karma, and Santa Claus." While in the elevator to see if his luck was changing, he encounters Portia Dubrovsky. Portia was raised by an eccentric mother who raised her daughters to believe they were magical muses holding a magic to bring out the creativity in the right man. The two could not be more different!

In a bombshell, the two learn a lot about themselves that leads them to sharing a mansion for 90 days while abiding by a strict curfew before being able to inherit what is theirs. Immediately, they put up walls to avoid the obvious feelings they share for each other. "His presence unnerved her, woke her up better than a Grande cappuccino with an extra shot of espresso, and at the same time gave her a sense of tranquility, as if nothing could go wrong in his presence." Ryan and Portia have different endgames in mind, but they both have one thing in common - providing the other with that glimmer of hope and happiness they desperately see in one another.

During the 90 days, you see a friendship develop that is filled with such a sweet playfulness. "If I had to guess, I'd say the oven is incorrectly calibrated. Either that, or the chicken committed suicide." Both are experiencing dreams of each other that seem so familiar, that they begin to question the notion of meeting prior to the elevator.

Every leak, broken stair, kiss, dance step, attempt to distance oneself, and especially the grand gestures - every little thing warmed my heart. The road to their HEA was a long one, starting long before either could remember. The 90 days was filled with more bumps then one could imagine, but the love was always they just kept trying to push it to the dark. It seemed like everyone from Lola to Braden to their parents and even the deceased Uncle Alexander knew before they did. Leaving the details for you to uncover as you read this story of love and finding yourself again, I will tell you that each turn will leave you wanting to dive deeper into the story. But, you must wait. If they aren't willing to share the details with each other, what makes you think they are ready to share with us? What I can do is leave you with some lines that will have you one-clicking this book before you realize it:

"She's been homeless."

"Fate was a fickle bitch."

"We've got to flour our noses."

"His little pussycat bared her claws on his behalf."

"And the carving of the dancer... I've never seen anything more beautiful."

He joined his hand with hers on his kness, interweaving their fingers. "I have."

He browns furrowed. "You have?"

"Yes." He brought her petite hand to his lips and kissed it. "The model for the ballerina - you. In any reincarnation, you are the most beautiful woman in the world. You are my Muse, Portia. Without you, I'm just a homeless, jobless, directionless shell." 

Let's show our girl, Shelly Bell some LOVE:

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Sweet, Lies and Sweet Tea

Mac Callahan was an agent in the FBI living in Washington DC. "I was living in a city of sex and lies. It was, as my late father lovingly called it, the largest gravy train with biscuit wheels in the world." As much as Mac tried, he never lost that Southern boy charm. (Helped in the department concerning the ladies too!) His mother still brought him back to Alabama, since she was the only consistent woman in his life. No woman has made him loose his composure until... "Christ, Sam," I groaned, feeling the climax upon me. I began to recite World Series champions in my head. Boston, New York, Chicago, Chicago - Cubs not Sox, Chicago, Pittsburgh, Philly.... Oh sweet Jesus... hang on. Too funny...

Samantha Peterson grew up, fell in love - got married, gave birth to a beautiful baby boy (Dax) and became a widow all very early on in life. Growing up, her Mimi taught her to be strong and many other things. "Growing up Southern teaches you plenty, least of all that you never go anywhere without your lipstick or pearls." She sticks to her guns and takes care of whats hers. "Yeah, well, don't give a loaded gun to a Southern girl after she's been pushed beyond her limit. Or off a cliff," she mused.

Autumn Valley Healthcare Center is a busy place in this little town. You have a scandal that needs to be uncovered, a life is starting over with a new job, and a love blossoms all with a "Mother of God and all that's holy, he was hotter than hell and half of Alabama." man taking out a 250 pound security guard over a mistaken room number. The way Kris portrays the South is beautiful. Everyone has their preconceived notions about the slower pace of the South, but she says it perfectly with them gem: "it's like you get better perspective of the universe from a smaller place in the world."

Kris hits all aspects of a great novel perfectly with this book! Instant attraction between the two strangers with a hint of humor; a background mystery of whodunit while slowly revealing the back story of two incredibly deep and lonely individuals. My favorite aspect of this book is the main characters relationships with their mother figures. They are witty in their age and wise beyond their years. Add the Southern aspect to the mix and you have a laugh a minute while reading pearls of wisdom like these:

"Oh, goodness dear," Momma crooned. "Martha Stewart is a Yankee. Let's not try to emulate her, shall we?

"There's a whole heap a' difference between paraphrasing and lying like a rug, baby. Be careful which one you use."

The supporting casts is beautifully written in this story. Polly, Dax's Nanny, is one person I would love to read more about. She cares so much for the two people she looks after. And when she threatens to castrate someone with a rusty butter knife, I knew she was my friend. Which brings me to Micah. Micah is Mac's partner/friend at the Bureau and keeps this guy in line. "The Southern accent has gotten even stronger," she laughed. "We may need to call someone up from the language department when you get back to translate." As a mother, Dax steals my heart with every scene he is in - as well as Macs. A man who is a good man/father is the sexiest thing to me. Then you have this character, I can't even start with this one, so I will let Mac describe her: "My heart raced at the very sight of her. Her curves were mesmerizing and her proportions perfect. She was stunning - long and lean. Making my way to her, I couldn't help and run my hands along her flawless body as I approached her from behind. Caressing her from her bottom up, she was as smooth as silk from a heavenly spindle. She demanded attention and respect, and her almost pure feline appeal made my blood boil. She was Dad's favorite - a 1963 Aston Martin DB5 convertible with a Vantage engine." I almost died reading this, I was SURE he was seeing Sam.

The build up of the HEA was well paced with the solving of the crime. One did not outshine the other, it was more like a partnership each building the other one up.  A perfectly balanced book that left me wanting more from Shadeland, Alabama; as well as a glass of Miss Celia's sweet tea.

Now, let's show Kris some LOVE

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The Maze Release!!!

The Maze

Jennifer Lowery

TAG: ...A game of survival tests their will and their love.

A mission she can’t forget...

The first female operative for the counterterrorism unit known as ATCOM, Atalanta 

Devayne is haunted by a former mission gone wrong. That mission led to her 

imprisonment, torture, and ultimate retirement, along with her loss of faith in the man 

she’d trusted with her life.

Brings his vengeance...

Former Navy SEAL, Noah Kincaid, bears the responsibility of Attie’s imprisonment and 

blames himself for not protecting her from drug lord Carlos Santiago. This time he won’t 

fail her.

In a deadly game of survival.

Santiago has resurfaced and set up an elaborate plan to exact his revenge on Attie by 

taking her brother hostage. The only way to save him is by revisiting the darkness of her 

past and relying on a man she can’t trust. In a battle of life or death, Noah and Attie are 

put to the test. They must face challenges to overcome the past and accept their feelings 

for each other before the danger that tore them apart separates them forever.

Content Warning: Sexual content

THE PLAYLIST

I love music almost as much as I love writing. Probably because my hubby played in a band when I met
him and my son has his own band now. Yeah, practice in my basement every weekend, lol. For most of
my stories I have playlists. Songs that fit my story and my characters, the mood of the story, the theme.
For The Maze I had a pretty short playlist, but it was intense and fit my story perfectly. Want to see it?
Maybe you’ll recognize some of the bands. Or maybe it’ll show my age, lol.
There is one song in particular that I just know was written for The Maze. The lyrics, the riffs, and,
oh, James Hetfield singing-yep, meant to be! I wrote most of my ms to this song. See if you know it:
Metallica-Until It Sleeps. It captured my heroine, Attie, and all she suffered so perfectly. Then Noah, her
rock. 

And now, for the rest of my playlist:

Metallica-Load and Reload
Audioslave-Audioslave 

See, told you it was short, lol. But, these awesome artists got me through the writing of The Maze and I
thank them for it! To this day whenever I hear any song off any of these albums I am taken back to the
scenes I was writing when I heard them and the emotions I felt as I wrote them. I fall in love with Noah 

and Attie and this story all over again.

THE RECIPE

I love cooking almost as much as I love writing. Almost. Writing is definitely my passion, but cooking can be fun sometimes too. I often include cooking scenes in my writing and it is usually the hero that is doing the cooking. Hmm...wonder why that is, lol. Probably because I don’t have the time anymore! And, probably why I started a cooking blog called Romance Recipes...Authors cooking up more than romance. So I can introduce readers to a blog where they can meet new authors, try a new recipe and pick up a new book all in one place! If you’d like to check it out here the link:

Romance Recipes!!!In The Maze Noah and Attie cook a meal together. I can’t really tell you when or why because that would give the story away so you’ll have to read the book to find out when they cook this meal together J But, I can give you the recipe and tell you it is delicious! Noah and Attie give it their seal of approval and since Noah is a former Navy SEAL you know it’s authentic! LOL. So, here’s the recipe for Cilantro-Lime Chicken from The Maze. Enjoy!Cilantro-Lime Chicken
Serves 4
1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
2 small onions
1 small green or red jalapeño
1 inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled
1 large lime
2 tbs. olive oil
2 tbs. chopped fresh cilantro
2 tbs. reduced-sodium soy sauce
1 tsp. sugar
Hot cooked jasmine rice

-Cut chicken into chunks or strips.-Cut each onion into 8 wedges.-Cut jalapeño crosswise into slices; remove seeds (wear gloves)-Cut ginger into thin slices.-Zest lime and juice to measure 2 tbs. juice.-Heat wok over med-high heat 1 minute. Drizzle oil into wok and heat 30 seconds. Add chicken, jalapeño and ginger: stir-fry 3 minutes or until chicken is cooked through. Reduce heat to medium.-Add onions; stir-fry 5 minutes.-Add lime peel, juice, and cilantro; stir-fry 1 minute.-Add soy sauce and sugar; stir until hot.-Serve with rice.

A FUN INTERVIEW WITH THE AUTHOR'S CHARACTERS FROM THIS BOOK

How did you first meet your writer?

Noah: When she called me to duty to rescue one of my operatives. I didn’t agree with Jennifer’s
terms, but she didn’t leave me any choice. Writers are stubborn creatures.

Attie: Noah’s right. Writers are very stubborn. Jennifer pulled me back into duty after my
retirement from ATCOM. Against my will. But *glances at Noah with warmth in her eyes* I’m
glad she did.

What are your favorite scenes in your book: the action, the dialog or the romance?

Attie: As the first female operative for ATCOM, I love the action. Who wouldn’t love being in
the field? *sends Noah a sizzling hot look* Then again, the romance is great too.

Noah: *returns the look, but doesn’t comment*

Do you infiltrate your writer’s dreams?

Jennifer: I’m going to interrupt this interview to answer this question because these two didn’t
let me sleep peacefully the entire time I was writing this book. Okay, continue.

Attie: In our defense, you weren’t a very cooperative writer. You refused to listen to me.

Jennifer: *nods* I’m working on my control issues. It all worked out in the end though, didn’t
it?

Attie: *smiles* Yes. Definitely.

Are you happy with the genre your writer has placed you in?

Noah and Attie in unison: Yes.

If you could rewrite anything in your book, what would it be?
Would you be interested in a sequel, if your writer was so inclined?

Noah: Hell, no. No more books. My wife isn’t going through anything like that again. Damn it,
Jen, you promised.

Jennifer: *whispers* Relax, Noah. Attie is safe. Now, as far as the rest of the ATCOM guys...

What are you proudest of?

Noah: *something deep and haunted flashes in his blue eyes* My wife.

Attie: *smiles and laces her fingers through Noah’s as they share a private moment* 

What do you like most about where you live?

Attie: After spending time in a South American jungle, I love Montana and living in the
mountains. The air is so clear and crisp. If I never visit a jungle again, it’ll be too soon.

Noah: *goes rigid in his chair, but remains silent*

What is your least favorite word?

Noah and Attie in unison: Carlos Santiago.