Meant to Be

by: Karen Stivali

Publishing Date: 10/29/12

Publisher: Turquoise Morning Press

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Source: Provided by Author

Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Description:

Sometimes you’re already committed to the wrong person when fate finally brings you the right one. 

When NYU professor Daniel Gardner’s career-obsessed wife convinces him to move to the suburbs, he hopes it’s a first step toward starting the family he longs to have. Instead of domestic bliss he finds his neighbor, Marienne Valeti. She loves her freelance design job, but must contend with a growing sense of isolation created by her husband’s indifference. A penchant for good books, bad movies, and Marienne’s to-die-for brownies sparks a powerful bond between them. Passion simmers, but they resist its lure, surrendering only in the seclusion of their minds. 

Their friendship helps them weather every hardship, from divorce to widowhood, leaving them both secretly wondering if it can survive a first kiss.

My Review:
My first book from the fabulous author, Karen Stivali, and now I cannot wait to read her other books.
"Meant to Be" is a definite page turner and will have you rooting for Daniel and Marienne to be with each other.  =)

Daniel is a Professor at NYU and his wife, Justine, who is about to open her own Spa has him move to the suburbs where he hopes to start a family finally.
When Daniel is not working as a professor he volunteers at the local theater where he meets up with his neighbor Marienne.  He already knows her husband, Frank, who he rides with to work every weekday on the rail.  He has been meaning to meet Marienne since they moved in behind Daniel.  They automatically become close friends and decide to have Friday nights as couples nights, where Marienne and Frank have Daniel and his wife over and vice versa.  In the meantime though, Daniel, is trying to hide his feelings for Marienne every time he sees her, and Marienne is trying to hide her feelings for Daniel.  They have come to realize they both have so much more in common and that they were most likely meant to each other, especially when Daniel finds out Marienne has pictures of him from his past.
Marienne finds out the truth on how Daniel met his wife and she thinks it is wrong what Justine did and continuously does to Daniel.  Daniel does not even realize the real truth on how Justine met him and what her real intentions were.
Daniel realizes a truth about Justine, when Marienne has the best miracle happen to her and Daniel is starting to realize he may never have what Frank and Marienne have.  Until Daniel finds out the truth about what Frank is doing to Marienne behind her back.

"Meant to Be" is about a two people who were actually meant to meet each other, but they have to meet the wrong person first, before they can meet their actual match.  Daniel and Marienne were meant to be together especially when they start sharing stories of the past together.
Karen definitely did a great job with this story and how true love will find itself eventually.  I thought "Meant to Be" was such a sweet story and I fell in love with the character Daniel as soon as he was introduced.  He helped Marienne so much, even more than her husband, Frank, who was such a jerk to her.  Justine was just as bad to Daniel, but she had a back story to why she hooked up with Daniel in the first place and that made me hate her even more.
I had such a hard time putting down this book because I wanted to find out what would happen next to Daniel and Marienne.
I was so mad on what Frank was doing to Marienne when the truth came out at the end and I was happy to what finally happened at the ending.
I definitely cannot wait to read the next installment to Daniel and Marienne's story now and I definitely look forward to reading other books from Karen Stivali as well.
This book may make you mad on the significant others of Daniel and Marienne, but you'll definitely want to know if Daniel and Marienne eventually get their happily ever after, especially with what they ordeal in this book.
I recommend this book to contemporary romance readers out there.
You'll fall in love with Daniel's sweet British ways and also fall in love Marienne's character as well.  Just a warning, this book may make you hungry for cakes, cookies, etc.  Marienne's character bakes and cooks a lot and she definitely had me wanting to bake after I finished this book.  =)
I received a complimentary copy of "Meant to Be from the Author in exchange for an honest review.

She Can Run

(She Can...#1)

by: Melinda Leigh

Publishing Date: 11/28/11

Publisher: Montlake Romance

Genre: Romantic Suspense

Source: Bought for Kindle (Amazon)

Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Description:

Elizabeth was a young widow with two small children when she met Congressman Richard Baker. Handsome and wealthy, with a sparkling public image, Richard seemed like the perfect man to provide the security that Beth and her kids were craving. But when she uncovers a dangerous secret about her new husband, Beth realizes he will go to any lengths—even murder—to keep it. After barely escaping with her life, she and her children flee. They eventually make their way to a secluded estate in the Pennsylvania countryside, where Beth dares to hope she has found a safe place at last… 

Forced into retirement by an unexpected injury, Philadelphia homicide detective Jack O’Malley is mourning the loss of his career when his uncle abruptly dies, leaving Jack to dispose of his crumbling country house. Unbeknownst to him, his uncle engaged a caretaker just before his death, a mysterious woman with two children and a beautiful face that haunts his dreams. Determined to know her, Jack begins an investigation into Beth’s past. When he uncovers the shocking truth, and a local woman is viciously murdered, Jack puts his own life on the line to keep Beth and her children safe. 

She Can Run is a sexy, satisfying debut from award-winning author Melinda Leigh, packed with enough suspense and romance to get even the tamest heart racing!

My Review:
This is my first book from the author Melinda Leigh, and I will definitely say it will not be my last.  I am now addicted to her She Can novels.  I need a break from the paranormal every once in awhile and I am due to read "She Can Tell" the 2nd book in Melinda's She Can series...but I wanted to read the first book in the series first.  I have a problem reading out of order, even when people tell me I can without being confused.  I have a huge pet peeve if I do not read in order.

Elizabeth Baker, aka Beth Markham is on the run with her kids from her husband, Congressman Richard Baker since he nearly killed her one night when she found out the truth of what was going on with him. Poor Beth thought her life would be so much better.  She has lost her first husband to a car accident and thought it would be happily ever after with Richard.  Unfortunately, she was dead wrong and now must live with a different identity thanks to her Uncle James.  Uncle James sends her to a secluded place where she is supposed to be the care taken of his old friend Danny's house.  When she gets there Danny has passed away and does not know if she will keep her job at the house since Danny's nephew is now owner of the house.
Jack O'Malley, former Philadelphia homicide detective did not even know about his Uncle Daddy hiring a caretaker, let alone, one that would bring her two kids a long as well.  He decides to keep her as care taker, but finds her and her kids very mysterious.  Beth's daughter, Katie is scared to be around Jack and Ben seems to keep to himself as well.  Jack wants to find out the truth about Beth and her kids since she is living under his roof and taking care of things around the house.  He is forced to be at home since his incident in the force and he will most likely never work in the field again.
When Jack finds out the truth about Beth and her kids, he will do anything to keep her safe as well as her kids...especially when he is starting to develop feelings for the strong-willed woman who came into his life unexpectedly.
Not only is Jack trying to keep Beth safe, but he is also asked to help with a serial killer case that hits close to home.

"She Can Run" is definitely great first book to the series that opens up with a lot of suspense, mystery, and romance.  I loved the fact that Melinda Leigh kept me on the edge of my seat because she not only had a killer on the loose where Beth and the kids were now living, but Beth was dealing with her past trying to catch up with her.  I was trying everything to figure out who the killer was in town.  It had to be someone close by.  Once the clues came together, I was in shock to find out who it was.
The other storyline about Beth and her husband that she was trying to run from, that had a secret to it at well.  Let's just say be prepared for lots of twists and turns in this book...which made it hard to put down, at least for myself.
I loved Beth because even everything that she has gone through, she still managed to keep her strength.  The only time she really showed weakness is when she was trying to sleep and when she was afraid to be touched. She definitely was meant to meet someone like Jack because she had not been with someone who really showed how he cared since her first husband passed away.
Jack definitely had his ups and downs to him, but when he came down to his character, he opened up once he found out everything that was going on.  He had it hard for awhile, until he accepted what he needed to do after his Uncle passed away.
I really getting different points of views in this book and actually being in the head of Beth, Jack, Richard and even the killer's head.  It was definitely different.
I look forward to reading Melinda's next book, "She Can Tell" very soon since I definitely need another romantic suspense tale that will keep me guessing who the killer could be and of course have some romance to it as well.  =)  Melinda definitely put some steam in "She Can Run" between Jack and Beth.  =)
I highly recommend "She Can Run" to readers who love the romantic suspense genre.  You'll definitely want to keep clicking through your Kindle to find out the truth on what is going on and help solve who the killer is actually.

Holiday Jinx

by: Abbey MacInnis

Publishing Date: 11/15/12

Publisher: Indie

Genre: Contemporary Romance with a little paranormal twist

Source: Provided by Lit Connect Events (from the Author)

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Smashwords

Description:

Jinx—one of Santa’s elves—is in trouble with the Big Guy. She’s been charged with bringing holiday happiness to Christopher Reagan, CEO of Wondrous Toys. It’s a big job especially when he’s more attached to the bottom of a bottle than helping his fellow man. 

 She’s got enough trouble without spilling the secrets of the North Pole, but then along comes Natalie Burnes, a newbie CEO of Enchanted Toys and in trouble of a hostile takeover from Christopher’s company. The woman literally crashes Christopher’s vacation plans in a tucked away Michigan cabin---and the sparks start flying. 

As if Jinx’s job of matchmaking the toy makers isn’t hard enough, she’s got to stay one step ahead of the North Pole patrol and keep out of sight of the humans. No way is she gonna screw up and lose her magic again. If the humans can’t find happiness and love by Christmas, Jinx forfeits her chance of seeing her true love too. What’s an elf to do?

My Review:

Author Abbey MacInnis writes a book about two people who need to find love again and this time have it last forever and they need the help of one of Santa's elves to make it happen.  Although, the elf Santa does pick is actually being punished to get the deed of the humans together since she was found almost ruining the secret of Christmas due to her love of a mortal.  

Jinx...the elf who Santa has sent on the mission to bring the two humans together has her work cut out for her since Christopher Reagan does not believe in love no longer and Natalie has had her heart broken.  Let's just say, Jinx will have to make the humans come together without her magic and if she fails she'll be forced to go to the elf prison.  

Christopher is CEO of Wondrous Toys and he always makes a trip to Michigan during the holidays to be alone and drink from the bottle that has taken over his life since his last love broke his heart.  He never thought the stubborn and very determined new CEO of Enchanted Toys, Natalie Burnes would change his Thanksgiving holiday by showing up to his cabin to stop him from buying up shares of her company.  Natalie Burnes knows what kind of man Chris is and she is determined to get her family's company back up and running.  Chris though has his own secret agenda of Natalie's company and he knows something is going on behind her back, but he has to make sure he's correct before he tells her.  

Both Christopher and Natalie are about to realize their fate was sealed to meet all because of a elf and her mission.

I really enjoyed "Holiday Jinx" because it had romance, comedy, and even drama.  

I actually see it becoming a movie one day, especially on ABC Family or Hallmark channels.  

It has two characters who have had their heart broken, but differently and they also have had their own family drama, but Natalie is naive on what is going on with hers.  

Natalie was annoying at times because she could not see through what was going on and then when at the end Christopher announced his true intentions.  

She really did need Chris from the beginning and everything ends up working out in her favor because when love conquers everything.  

I will definitely be checking out Abbey MacInnis's other books that she has written in the very near future since this was my first book from her.  

I recommend this book to anyone who loves Christmas themed books that is contemporary romance with paranormal twist.  It was a very much different read, especially with having Santa and the elf, Jinx playing a part.  I never knew Santa could be mean, but I guess he means business when it comes to giving away his secrets.  Jinx was one mischievous character, but she definitely played a very comedic role in the book.  =) 

And can I say...I love the title of this book.  =)

I received a complimentary copy of the book from the blog tour coordinator (from the author) in exchange for an honest review.  

Avoiding Commitment

(Avoiding #1)

by: K.A. Linde

Publishing Date: 7/29/12

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Source: Provided by Author

Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Description:

Jack and Lexi never had a typical relationship. After 2 years without speaking, she receives a phone call that changes everything. He unexpectedly asks her to convince the new girl, Bekah, that he's ready to commit. Jack is calling now after everything they had been through because there is another woman. She can't believe it. Follow Lexi in this heart wrenching drama as she relives her past relationship, or lack thereof, with Jack, and not just in her own mind, but to his fiance-to-be. Throw in Bekah's hot brother who always seems to be in the right place at the right time, a past with more secrets to unravel than you can even imagine, and you get a recipe for disaster. Find out what happens to Lexi as she travels to Atlanta to get the closure she so desperately desires from Jack, and how the bumps of life seem to keep getting in the way.

My Review:

Excuse me while I let readers know before hand if you are looking for a Happily Ever After....then proceed no further because this is one book that will make your emotions go crazy and want you to kick some characters butts!  I'm not joking...but if you don't mind that not all books have a HEA...then you will definitely need a day or two to read this book because believe me you will not want to put it down.  

I am in shock while typing up this review and finding the words I want to put into my review without giving too much away.  

I have never hated characters like I have in this book....especially the female character who I wanted to go through the book and tell her how naive and stupid she was being.  How could she not see through Jack's facade?  I could also beat his butt for doing the things he was doing to her...but then he would throw me off course and throw in sweet words and make me love him again....

Let's just say...K.A. Linde is now an auto-buy Author for me since her books make me want to throw myself in the books and beat some serious butt, while also be jealous over certain things the characters did.  

Here is my list of reasons why I loved this book:  

1.  I have never had a book that made me literally punch at my Kindle. (or actually swing it around with frustration)

2.  K.A. Linde has a different writing style that definitely had me up all night trying to finish this book even when fighting a stomach bug.

3.  I actually could feel the emotions of the female character and what she was going through...and sometimes I felt sorry, while others I wanted to knock some sense into her.

4. I actually loved a secondary character more than the primary characters...Chyna...Alexa's best friend.

5.  I had no idea what was going down with Alexa, Jack, Bekah, or Ramsey...until almost the end, when something clicked.  

6.  Did I already say, how I hated and loved the characters in this book.  

Some people may say I'm crazy for loving this book for my reasons above....but once you read the book you will understand why I typed up my list like I did. 

I do not feel sorry for what happened in this book.  I feel that Alexa, the main character put herself in the predicaments she went through with Jack.  Here's a little background without giving too much away.  Alexa has been in love with Jack since college.  The moment she saw him in the coffee shop where he worked, to the moment he asked her out...then that's when all hell broke loose and Jack lied to her.  The lies became too much of the truth....but then that truth...were actually little lies....hopefully that makes sense...because it is confusing at first until you figure it out on what is happening.  

Alexa is forced to go to GA, to convince Jack's new girlfriend that Jack is finally able to commit since he has never committed in a relationship before....but in the long run Alexa is forced to have those feelings for Jack she thought she closed off awhile ago, when he broke her heart several times.  They were really never together, but Bekah found out from previous relationship that Alexa may have been the reason Jack never committed.

Just be prepared for twists and turns, some very steamy moments between the characters, some very deceitful moments, and also crazy, heated arguments that turned into making you even more confused.  

I don't really know how to describe this book in a few words as you can tell from above....but this book definitely is a must read for anyone who loves a book that makes them go crazy over what is happening between the characters.

I am actually mad right now because I have to hold off for a bit before I read the next book because of other books I need to read first....but when I do get a chance to read it....my hubby will have to hold down the fort.  I want to know if eventually the characters I care about actually get a HEA because what I have read in this book....even though Alexa was naive in this book...I truly hope she finds the right man to be with to make her happy.

I received a complimentary copy of the book from the Author in exchange for an honest review. 

Release Me

(The Stark Trilogy, #1)

by: J. Kenner

Publishing Date: 1/1/13

Publisher: Random House

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Source: Netgalley

Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Description: 

For fans of Fifty Shades of Grey and Bared to You comes an erotic, emotionally charged romance between a powerful man who’s never heard “no” and a fiery woman who says “yes” on her own terms. He was the one man I couldn’t avoid. And the one man I couldn’t resist. Damien Stark could have his way with any woman. He was sexy, confident, and commanding: Anything he wanted, he got. And what he wanted was me. Our attraction was unmistakable, almost beyond control, but as much as I ached to be his, I feared the pressures of his demands. Submitting to Damien meant I had to bare the darkest truth about my past—and risk breaking us apart. But Damien was haunted, too. And as our passion came to obsess us both, his secrets threatened to destroy him—and us—forever. Release Me is an erotic romance intended for mature audiences.

My Review:

To the readers who have read FSoG and the readers who are reading the Crossfire books...you will definitely want to check out J. Kenner's release "Release Me", which comes out 1/1/13.
I am not one of those readers who has read FSoG so I will not compare Release Me to that trilogy.  Maybe when I have downtime I will finally read the FSoG books...but as of right now it is not my top priority.  
I will not also compare it to the Crossfire Trilogy due to the fact I believe J. Kenner has a different writing style all together from Sylvia Day.

J. Kenner has me not hating characters, but instead feeling emotional towards them.
Bring in the sexy billionaire, Damien Stark, who used to be a famous tennis player who has serious family issues, especially with his father.
And bring in Nikki Fairchild who is trying to change her life and get away from what she was.  She is making her mark finally outside of school in her new home in California with some old friends and meeting new friends.  She never thought she would meet one person who would change her life and what she should be doing in a place she least expected.

Damien has always got what he wanted, wherever and however and right now he has his eyes on Nikki and he will not take no from her.  Nikki knows she should focus on what she wants to do towards her future, but Damian is always there to try to claim her.  He will do anything to be with her, even get her fired from her job and also have her tell her darkest secret.
Nikki will be tested so many ways from Damien, but in the end will she succumb to what he wants from her, or will she be able to walk away from a man who wants to control her life like one certain person tried to do when she was younger.
Both Nikki has her own past she is still trying to deal with and now Nikki is learning Damien may have a dark past as well that she may end up being caught in.

"Release Me" is an emotional, steamy, intense book that will make you want more, especially when it comes to the sex scenes between the characters. This is when I will definitely not compare J. Kenner to any other writer out there.  She gave sex scenes between the characters that were steamy, intense and even sometimes sensual.  It did involve sex toys, and several other things in the bedroom that may be uncomfortable to certain people....but Damien did not try to harm Nikki at all. (at least not physically)  In fact, he gave her choices and did not even forced himself on her.  Instead, he gave her games to play that she enjoyed herself.  She never knew what to expect, but she knew Damien would not go too far with her.
Nikki, I have to say was the vixen sometimes.  She put herself in dilemmas that she would get punished for, but she would end up wanting it in the end.  She definitely made the book and Damien did as well.  He definitely makes the list of hotties for next year since this book comes out in 2013.  =)  He's up there with Gideon Cross and I definitely look forward to the 2nd book.
Even the secondary characters had their own role to play in the book and they had their own problems as well...especially, Nikki's roommate.  She definitely has some serious issues to work out.
Here's another thing with "Release Me".  There's not much of a big cliff hanger. We know there is still unfinished business because of certain things that need to be addressed, but we have no idea how J. Kenner will start off next or where she will take you....which is a definite plus.  I love not knowing.  =)
I look forward to the next installment in this trilogy because who can stay away from the sexy billionaire and the woman who he cannot get enough of....especially one who can put him through tests as well.
I highly recommend this to contemporary romance readers out there and fans of J. Kenner.  You will definitely enjoy this new book from her.  

Blood Vow

(Blood Moon Rising Trilogy #3)

by: Karin Tabke

Publishing Date: 12/4/12

Publisher: Berkley Trade

Genre: Paranormal Erotic Romance

Source: Bought from Amazon (Paperback)

Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Description:

The coming of the Blood Moon will lead two Lycan packs into war, spur two rival brothers into conflict, and spark an act of vengeance so evil that its effects will be felt for generations. 

 One woman stands at the center of it all… 

 A volatile mix of both Lycan and Slayer, half-breed Falon is Alpha female of her pack, marked by both Lucien and Rafael—rival Alpha brothers that share equal hold on her heart. But when Falon’s mysterious past completely unravels, it is revealed she is the daughter of the Master Slayer who murdered Lucien and Rafael’s parents. The revelation throws her relationship with both brothers into chaos. 

 Falon begs them not to condemn her for her father’s deeds. She realizes before her Alpha mates that they are destined to be one and pleads with them to accept the unusual triangle. If the brothers accept her as their mate then the Blood Law of an eye for an eye would be null and void. But if Lucien and Rafael cannot overcome their pride and accept their fate, the annihilation of the Lycan race waits within the shadow of the Blood Moon…

My Review:
I am so sad to have read the last page of "Blood Vow" because now I know it is has officially ended the trilogy of Falon, Lucian, and Rafe.  I have fallen in love with this trilogy since the moment I read the first page of "Blood Law".  I am saddened that it has ended, but now I am intrigued even more with the last page of "Blood Vow".
Karin Tabke, you know how to write a book that makes my emotions go haywire...I went from about to cry, to smiling, to squirming in my seat (or actually bed), to about to go through the book and knock some sense into Rafe and Lucien's heads...and to back to ecstatic again.  I LOVE YOUR WRITING!!
I also must say I STILL am in LOVE with Lucien!!!

"Blood Vow" picks up where "Bloodright" left off.  Falon has been taken by Fenrir, who is helping the Slayers kill off the Lycans.  The Blood Moon Rising is coming and Fenrir wants Falon on his side and as his.  She of course knows that Lucien and Rafe will come for her.
Falon finds out the truth when she is with Fenrir and that she has lycan blood and slayer blood in her as well.  She finds out who her father is and she is determined to not tell Lucien and Rafe because it will break their heart and they will forced to kill her since they vowed to take revenge on their parents.
When Lucien and Rafe rescue Falon...Falon has terms that both the alphas have difficulty coming to terms with.  She wants both of them...not just one of them.
Lucien and Rafe must decide if they can handle sharing Falon with each other, as well as prepare their packs of the fight that is coming to them.  Fenrir wants war and wants the Lycans dead for what they did to them hundreds of years ago. It is up to the power of three to kill Fenrir...but Falon knows the truth on what is supposed to happen and how to kill Fenrir...but she is not ready to spill her secret.

Oh boy...."Blood Vow" has a lot going on and I definitely do not want to spoil this book for anyone who has read the other two books and is waiting to read this one.  Or for the readers who are wanting to read the trilogy and haven't.
This book opened up a huge secret and it definitely put Falon in a bind.  When the truth did come out...I could have beat the crap out of the two alphas.  GRRR!!
Although, in the end one of them comes to terms before the other.  Can you say TRUE LOVE?!  =)  I knew he would in the end.
Rafe was a complete jerk in this book and I hated him for certain things he did.  I would have rather Falon fallen for one of the characters, but I could see why she wanted both.  She made them both stronger Alphas and they also helped her.
I swear every chapter left me hanging and maybe move onto the other chapter to find out what happened next.
I love how Karin switches back and forth to all 3 characters so we know what is going on inside their heads.  (LOVE her writing style)

Falon has been one of the FAVE strong female characters throughout all 3 books.  Karin definitely wrote the perfect character to carry the trilogy.  Falon grew so much in each book and this book, she proved how strong she is and how stronger she could be compared to Rafe and Lucien.
Also....the steamy threesomes between these characters were definitely HOT!  You will take cold showers after each one, which is saying a lot since there were many.  Oh my GOODNESS!  =)

Falon does have her happily ever after  in this book and so do the two male characters who have stolen her heart, as well as mine.
This trilogy will be a re-read in the very near future because I know I will miss the characters a lot.
If you have not read this trilogy yet, what are you waiting for.
If you love the paranormal romance genre with erotic elements...and well menage trois elements as well....READ this book...but first read the other two...otherwise you will miss out on some fabulous books.
Karin Tabke has closed out an amazing trilogy that definitely will be missed....but in the end, she leaves us asking ourselves...is that truly the ending?  Darn you, Karin!  =)  Much love to a fabulous Author who knows how to make us fall in love with her characters and the world she has created.
I love how she came up with this trilogy and I definitely look forward to her future books.  She has a fan for life.  =)  

Forbidden

(The World of Nightwalkers #1)

by: Jacquelyn Frank

Publishing Date: 10/30/12

Publisher: Ballentine Books

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Source: Netgalley

Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Description:

From New York Times bestselling author Jacquelyn Frank comes this first book in The World of the Nightwalkers—an exciting and sensual new spin-off series in which the Bodywalkers, an ancient race of the night, battles the evil forces who prey on them. 

The unexpected happens in an instant. On her way to work, secretary Docia Waverley hurtles into a crashing crossroads, and she quickly begins to suspect that things will never be the same. Then, when a tall, blond, muscular stranger intervenes on her behalf, telling her it is his duty to protect her at all cost, what is just a feeling turns to proof positive. That is, as long as Docia’s savior doesn’t turn out to be a crazed kidnapper. When Ram finds Docia, he has no doubt that she is his queen. But as this golden warrior sweeps in to protect her, he feels something more than body heat every time they touch. He is overwhelmed by a searing connection that goes deep into the twin souls inside him. A desire rises in him that is forbidden—this woman is his queen, the mate of his king, his leader, his best friend. And yet Docia is so vulnerable and attractive that she awakens a hunger in Ram that is undeniable, a carnal craving he cannot yield to . . . not without risking the very survival of the Bodywalkers

My Review:
First let me get this off my chest....it took me awhile to read "Forbidden" due to prior commitments and not being able to get into the book until towards the end.  =(  I usually enjoy a book about a different storyline instead of Vampires, wolves, etc and Forbidden definitely was a different style of paranormal.
I have had friends and family tell me to read Jacquelyn Frank's books for the longest time. Maybe I should have read the other books first before this one, but I fell in love the description of the book and the cover, the minute Jacquelyn announced her spin-off series.
I will say this, this book will not stop me from reading other books from Jacquelyn.  In fact, I definitely want to read the next book in this series...but I'm going to dive into the other series of books first that helped create this spin-off.  I love how much was put into this book, but maybe it was a little too much for me decipher all at once.
I am a HUGE fan of the Egyptian timeframe and when the characters names were announced in the book...it actually kept me reading "Forbidden".
And the ending helped as well since I want to know what happens to a certain character who I was intrigued the minute he was introduced.

Docia Waverly is having a great life until her life is about to take a turn for the worst.  She is targeted by some evil people and end ups getting pushed off a bridge where she nearly dies....well...actually she does die, but someone gives her a second chance, but with a price.  She is to share her body with another and this other is supposed to be the Queen of the Bodywalkers.
Docia is then kidnapped, or at least that is what her brother assumes has happened to her since she was supposed to be at her home after she got out of the hospital, but when he gets there something bad has happened.  He is will stop at nothing to find his sister and put the people to justice for harming her, if they did.
The kidnapper that ends up taking Docia is actually her savior, Ram, who is assigned to protect her since she is to be their Queen (at least when her other half finally appears).
While protecting her, Ram can't help, but have feelings for her and he knows it's wrong since it is his King's Queen.  When trouble comes stirring and Ram and Docia are put in a situation together...Docia ends up meeting Ram's other half and when she does, she expresses her own feelings, but she knows it is wrong as well....but it's going to be difficult to hide those feelings, once the truth comes out.

I don't want to spoil the book for anyone who wants to read it.  I will say though, you must read the series that brought on this spin-off though....which I plan on doing very soon.  I want to find out what happens in the next book since the ending was a doozy.  Two of my fave characters in this book actually come together in the end.
Docia and Ram had a very strong bond, but it took them forever to figure it out and it actually came about once the truth came out about Docia.  (lips are sealed on that)
The bad guys in this book actually made me mad the most and it seemed they played a small role in the book.  At least that's my opinion.
This book is the first in the spin-off so like I stated in the beginning, I will continue on with the next book.  I won't let my first impression of the series deter me away from the rest of the books in the series.
In fact "Forbidden" did have  a lot of good qualities to it.  I did fall in love with Ram (Ramses) and the character who is inside him...well actually Ram is inside the body of the person he inhabits.
I liked some of Docia's qualities...but she wasn't a strong character that interest me.  I was more interested in her brother.
All and all, "Forbidden" was a very enjoyable read when it did start catching my interest.  Egyptian pharaohs that take over humans bodies definitely is a different twist to the paranormal world and that was a definite plus on why I continued reading it.
Jacquelyn definitely builds the first book right for the rest of the series.  She definitely is a author I should have read a long time ago.  I have had several of her other books on my book shelves for awhile.  Now is the time to open them up and read.  =)
If you loved her other books, you will enjoy "Forbidden".  If you are a addict to the Egyptian era, like I am...you will definitely enjoy this take of pharaohs put into this paranormal world that Jacquelyn has created.

I received a complimentary copy of "Forbidden" by Jacquelyn Frank from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.  This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

Wish List

by: Sylvia Day

Publishing Date: (first published 12/2/05)

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Source: Amazon (for Kindle)

Amazon | All Romance eBooks | Barnes & Noble

Description:

When Nicolas James draws Stephanie Martin's name in their law firm's Secret Santa exchange he knows he's in for a merry Christmas-if he can figure out what to give the woman he's wanted for months. When he works late and finds a crumpled piece of paper listing Steph's personal wish list, he knows he's in luck. Because all Steph wants for Christmas is him, in a number of naughty ways. 

And not-so saintly Nick is going to make every one of her carnal wishes come true.

My Review:

I was looking for a short christmas themed erotic book that would capture my interest since I hardly read holiday themed books.  "Wish List" by Sylvia Day (which originally was published in White Hot Holidays Vol 2) definitely did not disappoint and now has me looking for other christmas themed books.  I also did not want to miss out on an opportunity to read another book from Sylvia.

Stephanie Martin has had feelings for Nicolas for awhile now, but never thought it would work out because Nick is too much of a play boy.  He goes through women like crazy.  At the annual Christmas party for their law firm though, Stephanie opens up her Secret Santa gift and to her amazement, she is about to get one of her Christmas Wish List items crossed off.  How did Nick know about her secret Wish List...she'll only be able to find out if she asks him.  

Nicolas has been trying everything to capture Stephanie's interests.  He has been flirting with her for the past months and all of his ex-girlfriends, friends and family members want to know why he just does not ask Stephanie out.  He wants to make it special and one night when he comes across a crumpled piece of paper with some wish list items that include his name....now is his shot to win over the beautiful and sexy co-worker he has had eyes on forever.  

I thought Wish List definitely was a very erotic, sexy, fast pace read that I had a hard time putting down.  I literally read it in less than a hour.  I enjoyed the storyline of having a naughty wish list being fulfilled.  Makes me want to create my own instead of having an actual gift.  Watch out hubby.  =)  

Nicolas could definitely be every woman's dream come true when it came to fulfilling wish lists and making dreams come true and the ending I literally teared up on when he found out the truth on why Stephanie was so distant and why she did not think a real relationship would work out between them.  Nicolas though, fought hard to win her over. 

It may be a short read, but Wish List will keep anyone warm during the cold winter nights for just a short awhile and maybe who knows it will make you want to come up with your own naughty wish list with your significant other....or even win over that special someone you've had your eye on for awhile.

I definitely look forward to reading more books from Sylvia very soon.  I'm a HUGE fan of her books and this book definitely is a must-read again for next Christmas.  

Girl Most Likely to

by: Barbara Elsborg

Publishing Date: 7/11/12

Publisher: Ellora's Cave 

Genre: Erotic (Menage) Romance 

Source: Provided by Author

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Ellora's Cave | All Romance eBooks

Description:

Wren doesn’t feel like the girl most likely to end up living happily ever after. Especially when Adam, aka THE BIG MISTAKE, comes back into her life. He wants a second chance but Wren’s afraid to risk another dent in her battered heart. 

When Adam reconnects with Wren, he’s torn between wooing her and pursuing Tomas, the sexy guy in the flat next door. They both make his heart sing—how can he possibly choose? Or maybe he’s finally found a man and woman to give him the balance he craves. 

Tomas knows better than to let his personal life interfere with his job as an undercover officer but he can’t get enough of Adam…or Wren. Or Adam and Wren, when they’re hot, naked and writhing together in his bed. 

Suddenly Wren’s gone from the girl most likely to get ripped off to the girl most likely to get off. But it’s more than sex. She, Tomas and Adam have something special, something they’re determined to protect at all costs.

My Review:

Excuse me, while I fan myself because this was one HOT book.  

I have read erotic books before with menage in them, but nothing like this book.

Barbara Elsborg definitely knows how to write a very sexy, steamy, hot scene between two guys and one girl.  And can I just say the girl was lucky.  =)

Wren has dated some awful blokes in the past, in fact, she still happens to see one every day when she goes to work since he's married to her cousin and works at the same school she does.  She even had a guy she thought loved her, but ended up stealing her money and charging up her credit card.  She feels she will never meet a good guy she can trust with her heart.  

Wren never thought she would be tempted in life with two guys...until she meets Tomas and Adam.  Adam she met five years ago in Venice, Italy.  They had a very steamy moment together and they thought, they would never see each other again....then there's Tomas who is in Wren's English class.  Wren believes something is up with him since he manages to make jokes in English and he will not stop flirting with her.  She knows she should not hook up with a student, but Tomas is making it tough on her.

Wren is already tempted by Tomas in class and then she finds out Adam is in her Italian class.  She has two guys now sneaking her attention.  

Although, Tomas and Adam have their own secret agenda for her and themselves.  Adam is on vacation from London, England trying to get his assistants out of his head and trying to come with peace that he will never have what they have in a relationship.  Until he meets Tomas next door and runs into Wren....now he thinks he has met the two people who will change his life for the better.

And Tomas is living a secret life that he is trying to keep to himself, until Wren ends up in the middle of it and so does Adam.  

I could go on and on, but I will spoil the book for readers who want to give it go.  

Let me just tell you ahead of time....this is a menage book that involves male on male, male on male on female and lots of sex, which includes anal and many other things. (You get the idea)  It also includes a fetish club that involves dressing up and many other things that you can think of that may happen in a fetish club.  

I just wanted to warn you a head of time before you dive into this book.

I really enjoyed the storyline of the book as well as, if you have not guess, the sexual encounters between all three characters as well.  Barbara definitely supplies you with suspense, romance, and very erotic moments.  I know for a fact I needed a cold shower after every sex scene between Wren, Tomas, and Adam.  Wren definitely got with two experienced guys who helped her make her mind up with the experience they offered her. 

Once you start this book, you will want to figure out what is going on where Wren works, why Tomas has to work with the bad buy, and if Adam is hiding something (because he is sometimes too good to be true).  

Wren was one strong female character who happened to get her self into a lot of trouble through the book, but she handles it well.  

Adam had his insecurities about having a relationship with Wren and Tomas and if they were willing to be a threesome.  He was trying everything to come to terms to what happened to him in the past.

Tomas had his own past he had to deal with and get over.  He was trying everything to keep his secret hidden, but when it fell through, he just wanted to keep everyone he loved safe.

If you love erotica that involves menage, that includes lots of sex (regular, anal, etc...) and also enjoy some suspense and action, you will definitely enjoy "Girl Most Likely to".  

You will also eventually find out the meaning behind the title of the book.  =)  

I will definitely be checking out Barbara's other books very soon.  

Aromatherapy

(Ecstasy Spa #2)

by: Suzanne Rock

Publishing Date: 3/27/12

Publisher: Electric Ink Press

Genre: Erotica

Source: Provided by Author

All Romance Ebooks | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Description:

When Ian shows up at the Ecstasy Spa to take his new girfriend out for her birthday, he learns that she has been selling more than massages to pay her rent. At first he’s enraged, then he’s intrigued. What does she do with those men and little bottles of scented oils? Would she do the same for him? Could he convince her to do those things for him exclusively?

My Review:
I honestly can say I am now officially addicted to Suzanne Rock's books.  This is my 2nd book from her and I really enjoy the steaminess of the books she writes.  There short, but they definitely quench the erotic thirst.  =)

Lily has been working at the Ecstasy Spa for a couple of years now.  She is known as the person who men go to for a massage with scented oils since that is what she specializes in.  Her boyfriend, Ian, does not know about her job.  In fact, she's trying everything to keep it from him since he means the world to her and she knows it will break his heart to find out the truth.
One night while closing up shop at the Ecstasy Spa, Lily is surprised with Ian shows up to her work to surprise her for her birthday.
Ian finds out the truth on what Lily does and he is heartbroken.  He does not know if he should stick with her, but when he finds out what she does in the room with the men, he wants to find out for himself, if she would do the same things she does to her clients to him. Lily is confused at first and is trying everything to convince Ian that the clients mean nothing to her.  Ian is the one that has her heart and he's special to her.  She only does this to have money for rent and her bills she must pay.
Lily may have to give up Ecstasy Spa if she wants to stay with Ian...or she may end up breaking his heart and choosing the Spa over him.

My thoughts on "Aromatherapy" was  that it did have its steamy moments and hotness, but I did not feel a connection with the characters like a did the first book.  Ian seemed to be a little controlling over Lily.  She was trying to pour her heart out on why she chose the Ecstasy Spa over every other Spa job out there.  She could not find another job out there to pay her bills and Lily's boss, Celeste, knew Lily would be a great asset to the Spa.
She also tried to reason with Ian and tell him that he meant the world to her and the clients did not.
I did see the reason why Ian would be upset with her.  She had not even been with him yet and he did not know why she could not look other places for a job, but instead let other men touch her when he had not had the pleasure to do the things she does to the other men.
Just because I did not click with the characters though does not mean I did not enjoy "Aromatherapy".  Let's just say it was another book from Suzanne I had a hard time putting down.
I enjoyed the ending once every thing fell together and I definitely loved the steamy, hot scenes between the characters, especially the shower scene.  (HOT!)  And of course the scene in Lily's room with her scents as well.  Ian just wanted Lily to open up to him and Lily wanted to show Ian she loved him over the men she had been with.
This was another amazing erotic short read from Suzanne Rock and I definitely cannot wait to dive in the rest of the books now after reading the first two.
If you want to read about a Ecstasy Spa that indulges in your fantasies than definitely check out these books from Suzanne Rock.
I received a complimentary copy of "Aromatherapy" from the Author in exchange for an honest review.  This review is my own opinion and is not a paid review.  

Quick Fix

(Ecstasy Spa #1)

by: Suzanne Rock

Publishing Date: 3/22/12

Publisher: Amazon Digital Services, Inc.

Genre: Erotica

Source: Bought for Kindle (Amazon)

All Romance Ebooks | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Description: 

Intended for Adults 18+

Dumped by her boyfriend and down on her luck, Anabelle Richards accepts her best friend's gift and goes to the Ecstasy Spa for an afternoon of erotic escape. She expects the sex to be mechanical and the staff to be more brawn than brains. She couldn’t be more mistaken. 

Instead of cold and clinical, Seth is everything she has ever wanted in a man. Smart and sexy, it’s easy to see why he is the most requested staff member at the spa. Together they embark on a mind-blowing sexual journey of self-discovery that takes them both to heights neither thought possible. As physical attraction turns into something deeper, Anabelle wonders if she should risk going against spa policy to see if the "Quick Fix" she ordered can be changed into something more permanent.

My Review:

I purchased a copy of "Quick Fix" because I wanted to dive into the first book in the Ecstasy Spa Novels because I received a complimentary copy of the 2nd book to the series from the Author.  First off, let me just say I love the name of this book.  It definitely fits the story well and made me intrigued to read it even more.

Anabelle is about to experience her first special spa treatment at the facility known as Ecstasy Spa, where all your fantasies come true.  She needs a fantasy due to her boyfriend dumping her, saying she is not very adventurous in the bedroom.  Her friend has ordered Anabelle to try out the services at the Ecstasy Spa and she's getting the special package that only certain clients get.  She needs the package called "Quick Fix" to hopefully fix what she has a problem with.  She's wanting to prove her ex-boyfriend wrong and herself...that she can be adventurous and sexy.  

She has to sign a contract saying she will not ask the person who is about to give her "Quick Fix" out or indulge into giving any information of her personal life out or ask about his.  

The minute Anabelle sees Seth, she knows it is going to be difficult to fulfill the contract.  Seth is not what she expected at all.  He is about to prove Anabelle that she is wrong about herself and Anabelle is about to prove Seth wrong about first impressions.

My thoughts on the first book to the Ecstasy Spa Novels is that I really enjoyed this steamy, sexy book that definitely had me wanting more.  I loved both characters Anabelle and Seth.  Anabelle needed someone to show her she was capable of doing things out of her comfort zone and Seth needed someone to prove to him that every woman was not the same.  

Suzanne Rock wrote some really, really erotic scenes between the characters that will require you to have a cold shower after wards or for the ones who smoke, a cigarette after being able to visualize how Suzanne wrote the encounter between Seth and Anabelle.  SEXY HOT!  

I love the story of the Ecstasy Spa and how different it is from other erotic novels I have read.  

Can I also say...Seth is a hottie!  He came up with the idea of the Quick Fix...and it definitely was a great fix for Anabelle and himself. She definitely showed she was able to do things out of her comfort zone.  She gave herself doubt in the beginning, but when she finally gave in, she grew as a character. 

I definitely was looking forward to the 2nd book after finishing this book even more.  

Suzanne Rock is one author who I will definitely read more books from.  =)  

If you want a short erotic read, you'll definitely enjoy the first book to the Ecstasy Spa Novels.  

Welcome to our virtual book tour stop of "Tempted by Evil" by Amber Lynn Natusch and Shannon Morton brought to you by Pure Textuality.  

A sheltered girl. 

The perfect boy. 

A mysterious stranger. 

Random messages delivering a sobering prophecy plague Aspen's existence. With every curious encounter, her sanity wavers further. Before long, Aspen finds herself balancing the fate of humanity on her shoulders, until a single act turns her world upside down. She finds herself alone, isolated from those she thought she could trust. 

Alone to damn the world,

My Review:
I have read the first book in the Caged series by Amber Lynn Natusch and jumped at the chance to read another book from her, as well as try a book by Shannon Morton.
I am always looking to find more Authors that will keep me reading and leave me hanging at the end of the book.
"Tempted by Evil" is not a usual YA book that I would find myself reading, but the description of it was interesting and I could not wait to find out who was the sheltered girl, the perfect boy, and the mysterious stranger.
Aspen who has only life in a convent, never knew her parents.  All she knows is that they died when she was really young.  She is not living in the convent and trying to make her life carry on.  She meets a boy who is willing to help her in anyway he can.  He gives her a home and even gets her a job thanks to his parents.
When Aspen, comes across another stranger while working, he intrigues her.  He is always there watching her for some reason.
Aspen starts to hear voices and see people other people cannot see.  In fact, she is starting to question herself.
When she finds out the truth on what is happening to her, she learns that the people she thought she could trust and the people who took care of her, are the ones who want her live out the prophecy, but in a evil way.
Aspen does not know who to trust now...the boy who gave her a new life may be tempting her in the wrong way and the other stranger told her to not trust anyone, but herself.
Is the prophecy being told really true.  Is she the one to determine the fate of mankind and the world?

My thoughts after reading "Tempted by Evil" is that I need to know what happens now after reading that cliffhanger, but I do have to say the book did not peek my interest until towards the end.  When the truth came out, I was neglecting my duties at home to find out happened next to Aspen and find out the truth about Merrick ( the stranger ) and the real truth about Julian (the boy who helped Aspen) because there was a another motive with him.  I just could not figure it out until the end.
I love the fact the book was different from what I have read before.  Prophecies and towards the end, the truth of Aspen's parents and why she is considered apart of the prophecy and what she actually supposed to do.
I give the beginning and the middle of the book 3 stars...but the end 4 stars, which is the reason why the my review is 3.5 stars for total.  I am planning on reading the next book because Shannon and Amber definitely had me in shock after Aspen chose her path.
I would have chosen the other side...Ahh!
Aspen has her reasons, I guess.
I recommend this book to readers who love the YA paranormal genre.  If you are a fan of Amber's Caged Series, you'll definitely want to check out this new trilogy from her and Shannon.