Review ~ Sealed With A Curse by Cecy Robson ~ 4 out of 5 stars

AUTHOR BIO:

Cecy (pronounced Sessy) Robson is an author with Penguin's SIGNET ECLIPSE. She attributes her passion for story-telling back to the rough New Jersey neighborhood she was raised in. As a child, she was rarely allowed to leave the safety of her house and passed her time fantasizing about flying, fairies, and things that go bump in the night. Her dad unwittingly encouraged Cecy's creativity by kissing her goodnight wearing vampire fangs. Gifted and cursed with an overactive imagination, she began writing her Urban Fantasy Romance Series, Weird Girls, in May 2009. THE WEIRD GIRLS: A Novella, debuts December 4, 2012 followed by SEALED WITH A CURSE, December 31, 2012, and A CURSE EMBRACED, July 2, 2013.

LINKS:

Website:          www.cecyrobson.com

Twitter:           https://twitter.com/cecyrobson

Facebook:        http://www.facebook.com/Cecy.Robson.Author 

Goodreads:     http://www.goodreads.com/goodreadscomCecyRobsonAuthor

Sealed With A Curse

Celia Wird and her three sisters are just like other twenty-something girls—with one tiny exception: They're the products of a curse that backfired and gave each of them unique powers that make them, well, a little weird…

The Wird sisters are content to avoid the local vampires, werebeasts, and witches of the Lake Tahoe region—until one of them blows up a vampire in self-defense. Everyone knows vampires aren't aggressive, and killing one is punishable by death. But soon more bloodlust-fueled attacks occur, and the community wonders if the vampires of Tahoe are plague-ridden.

Celia reluctantly agrees to help Misha, the handsome leader of an infected vampire family. But Aric, the head of the werewolf pack determined to destroy Misha's family to keep the area safe, warns Celia to stay out of the fight. Caught between two hot alphas, Celia must find a way to please everyone, save everyone, and—oh, yeah—not lose her heart to the wrong guy or die a miserable death. Because now that the evil behind the plague knows who Celia is, he's coming for her and her sisters. 

This Wird girl has never had it so tough.

Available now at Amazon and Barnes & Noble

Sealed With A Curse 

(Weird Girls #1)

By Cecy Robson

4 out of 5 STARS

This book was fantastic!  With an action packed plot that had me eagerly flipping pages to the great character developments between four very different sisters and some alphalicious hotties, I couldn't ask for more!

The plot starts with Celia, Taran, Shayna and Emme at vampire court facing some allegations that could have dire consequences.  Enter Misha.  Sexy master vampire that now has his sights on Celia.  Hmmm...  Things definitely get interesting when he later has a proposition for her.  Meanwhile, Celia and her inner tigress while out on a run come across a pack of weres with one sinfully delicious alpha leading the pack.  Enter Aric.  Yum.  Plenty of eye candy to go around as we are also introduced to some of his closest packmates.  

The players are set, the plot is unfolding and chaos ensues.  One of the things I like most about this new series by Cecy Robson is the fantastic character development.  The story is told from Celia's POV but she really is a package deal.  If you love her, you quickly love her quirky sisters and the strong bond that they share.  Taran, Shayna and Emme all have different abilities supernaturally speaking and all have qualities that I admire from strong, kick ass chicks.  Lots of characters introduced but all equally important and easy to keep track of.  

The plot...  Whoa.  Seriously, could anything else be thrown at the Weird Girls?  They have their hands full with vamps and weres.  Set at a steady pace, there is never a dull moment and I loved every minute of it!

Parting thoughts?  I felt the need to shower after this.  Poor Celia and Co really do have to fight dirty at times.  ;)  I'm so happy this is a series!  The continuing adventures will have me waiting eagerly for release day for future installments to see what other shenanigans they get into, and out of!  I also have high hopes for reoccurring roles from some of the other sexy men that were introduced.  More Aric?  Yes please!  

Now for some favorite quotes that show how humorous Cecy is!

I sighed.  Tigress, fore-breather, knife thrower, and Gypsy.  We sounded like headliners for a freak show.  All we needed was a bearded lady.  I sighed.  That's what happens when you're the bizarre products of a backfired curse.

~~~

And that's when Aric took off his shirt.   

The soft fabric skimmed over perfectly golden skin and rock-hard abdominals tight enough to launch a brick into orbit.  A whisper of hair traveled the length of his belly button to where his jeans hung low on his hips.   

Holy...   

Aric stopped removing his shirt when he pulled it just above his small, erect nipples.  This wasn't real.  This was some kind of Hollywood hottie video shoot on TV and all I wanted to do was hit pause.

~~~ 

Damn, my stomach growled like a cave full of pissed-off cheetahs ready to claw the nearest -- Ooh, doughnuts!

Interview w/ Cecy Robson and a 5 star review for The Weird Girls!

AUTHOR BIO:

Cecy (pronounced Sessy) Robson is an author with Penguin's SIGNET ECLIPSE. She attributes her passion for story-telling back to the rough New Jersey neighborhood she was raised in. As a child, she was rarely allowed to leave the safety of her house and passed her time fantasizing about flying, fairies, and things that go bump in the night. Her dad unwittingly encouraged Cecy's creativity by kissing her goodnight wearing vampire fangs. Gifted and cursed with an overactive imagination, she began writing her Urban Fantasy Romance Series, Weird Girls, in May 2009. THE WEIRD GIRLS: A Novella, debuts December 4, 2012 followed by SEALED WITH A CURSE, December 31, 2012, and A CURSE EMBRACED, July 2, 2013.

LINKS:

Website:          www.cecyrobson.com

Twitter:           https://twitter.com/cecyrobson

Facebook:        http://www.facebook.com/Cecy.Robson.Author 

Goodreads:     http://www.goodreads.com/goodreadscomCecyRobsonAuthor

THE WEIRD GIRLS

Celia Wird and her three sisters are just like other 20-something girls—with one tiny exception: they're products of a backfired curse that has given each of them unique powers that make them, well, a little weird… 

The Wird sisters are different from every race on earth—human and supernatural. When human society is no longer an option for them, they move in among the resident vampires, werebeasts, and witches of the Lake Tahoe region. Could this be the true home they’ve longed for? Um, not quite. After the sisters accidentally strip a witch of her powers in a bar brawl, they soon realize the mistake will cost them. Because to take on a witch means to take on her coven. And losing the battle isn’t an option.

Includes a preview of the first full-length novel in the Weird Girls series, Sealed with a Curse—as well as introductions to the Weird World, and a letter from the author.

Available for pre-order:  Amazon  ~ Barnes & Noble

My interview with Cecy 

Emmy:  Hey Cecy!  Thanks for this opportunity!

Cecy:  Hi, Emmy! Thank you for the opportunity to be on your blog. : D

Emmy:  Your father used to tell you stories growing up.  Have you always been surrounded by creative people?  People not afraid to let their imagination run wild?

Cecy:  My father told me lots of stories, he still does.  I didn’t understand then why he just didn’t read to me.  It took me a long time to realize it was because he couldn’t.  My father was illiterate most of his life. He continues to struggle with reading even small words.  But because of it, and his need to entertain his children, he was very creative and helped trigger my imagination.


Emmy:  You mention on your website that you had an active imagination growing up, were you writing then?  What TV shows or books sparked your imagination growing up?

Cecy:  I started writing May 1, 2009. I spent my childhood “pretending” a lot when I played with my toys and friends.  Anything and everything I read or saw sparked my creativity, but I was especially drawn to Marvel comics.  Super powers fascinated me—they still do.  Even now I still wish I could fly.

Emmy:  Do you have any siblings?

Cecy:  I have a brother named, Douglas.  We’re very close.

Emmy:  The novella was fantastic and a great introduction into a world I can't wait to read more about!  Such a unique twist on how they came into their powers...

Cecy:  Thank you. Since my girls are 1/2 Latina, and I’m 100%, I had to incorporate my heritage. What a better way than a curse? I swear the majority of Latinos are über superstitious—like me!

Emmy:  Did you write the prequel novella before or after Sealed With A Curse?

Cecy:  I wrote it after.  In April my editor offered me a contract for the novella.  I was hesitant to do it because I wasn’t sure if I had enough time since I was swamped writing book 2, A CURSED EMBRACE.  My agent, Nicole, and my husband, Jamie, believed I could and encouraged me to do it.  I cranked it out in about two weeks.  I have to say I love how it turned out and it’s one of my favorite projects.

Emmy:  Which of the Wird sisters do you relate to most?

Cecy:  I relate to all of them for different reasons—from Shayna’s perkiness to Taran’s inappropriateness and likewise Emme’s shyness and Celia’s awkwardness and emotional strength.

Emmy:  So since 2009, what is the total count for re-writes/edits for the release of Sealed With A Curse?

Cecy:  Hmmm. That’s hard to say. Sealed with a Curse was developed from my original Weird Girls novel.  That first novel underwent at least 14 revisions.  When it went out on submission through my agent, my current editor, Jhanteigh, felt too much happened.  She asked me to take the first three chapters and make that my new Book 1.  Hence Sealed with a Curse was born.  I believe I did four revisions with my agent before it was resubmitted to Jhanteigh.  I’m grateful to Jhanteigh and Nicole, it’s a much stronger book and so is A CURSED EMBRACE—the remaining story of the original Weird Girls novel.

Emmy:  Paranormal creatures can be all kinds of sexy to all kinds of scary.  What creature would you most be afraid to run into in the middle of the night?  And which one would consider running to?

Cecy:  I’m scared senseless of the Headless Horseman.  There, I said it.  I’d definitely run into a big, strapping werewolf’s arms.  I have a soft spot for the lupines. ; D

Emmy:  How many books are planned for the series?  Will there be spin-offs or novellas for the sisters?

Cecy:  Currently Celia has four books and about three more coming. I’m currently brainstorming novels for Taran and Emme.  I already have two novellas written for Bren, Celia’s werewolf buddy, but both need to be lengthened.  I also have a novella for Taran.  It involves her meeting her lover’s ultraconservative parents. Let’s just say they aren’t taken by her “charm.”  There are also three spin-offs in the works.  Whew, I have A LOT of work to do.

Emmy:  What is your writing ritual like?  Music?  Certain drinks?  Candles?  Etc?  What helps you get in the creative mindset?

Cecy:  I use music to set the mood for a scene and help me work through it in my head.  When I actually sit down to write it, though, I need completely quiet in order to focus.  I also need a lot to drink since I’m sitting for hours.  Usually I have green tea and water on hand.


Emmy:  If you were stuck in the Twilight Zone and had to repeat the same day over and over, what album, book and drink would you have everyday and where would you be?

Cecy:  Oh, what a great question.  I’d have to say my butt would be seated at my favorite seafood restaurant with my husband and children while Springsteen’s live album 75-85 playing overhead.  Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows or Jim Butcher’s CHANGES would be next to my menu, and, as boring as it sounds, I’d be pounding water. I think being stuck in the Twilight Zone would make me thirsty.

Emmy:  Thanks Cecy! I hope these aren't repeating questions you've been asked  a lot already. I imagine a few are though.

Cecy:  Thank you, Emmy!  You’ve been incredibly cool to get to know.

The Weird Girls

By Cecy Robson

5 out of 5 STARS

Available December 4th, 2012

I knew I was going to love this.  I knew, even before finishing the first chapter, that this novella from the quirky and charming Cecy Robson was going to be unique and witty.

The Wird sisters consist of four very different women.  Celia is the "lead" sister.  I say lead because not only is this series told from her point of view, but she has the cold calculating demeanor of a tiger.  Oh wait, she can totally turn into one and I wouldn't mess with her if my life depended on it!  Shayna and Taran are both sassy in different ways and quite entertaining.  Emme is quiet and gentle but I can't wait to see what she might be hiding!  All wielding a different power and pretty awesome on their own, when they join forces they make one hell of a team.  The paranormal world is getting a brand new spin as we learn why they have powers and from what entities they may encounter.

The world building was fantastic.  For a novella, we aren't bogged down with too much information.  We get just enough mixed in with the fantastic plot to keep you turning the page eagerly in anticipation of what's to come.  The plot was fun.  Starting out in a bar, only craziness can ensue and craziness it is!  We are thrown into a world of witch craft and challenges as Celia, Shayna, Taran and Emme fight for their right to peace in the mystical place that is Lake Tahoe.

Some very dramatic things happen to Celia when she faces certain challenges making your heart stop, tears threaten to spill or laugh hysterically with everything that is going on.

I don't want to say too much about the plot!  I don't want to spoil anything but definitely give this series a try!  Not only is the world Cecy created unique, but the humor is fantastic and Cecy is just all kinds of awesome! She really is a sweet person and I'm so glad to have gotten the chance to know her on the internets and to read her work.  I am a fan for life now and I CANNOT WAIT to read Sealed With A Curse!  If this novella knocked my socks off, the first full length in the series is bound to kick major ass!

So what are you waiting for?  Go pre-order your copy of The Weird Girls today!  

Amazon  ~ Barnes & Noble

Review ~ Long Shots: Books 1-3 Buy Christine d'Abo

Long Shots: Books 1-3

By Christine d'Abo

4 out of 5 Stars

Welcome to Pulled Long café, where the coffee is hot, and the sex is hotter! Meet your hosts:

Sadie Long has been lusting after her friend Paul for years, and when she visits him at Mavericks, the sex club where he works, she's suddenly fantasizing about being with Paul and his sexy boss Josh—at the same time.

Paige Long can't help but be attracted to gorgeous firefighter Carter, especially once she learns he's a Dom. But can she trust in her own desires and submit to happiness?

Ian Long doesn't want to be the rebound guy for a brokenhearted man—even after a little exhibitionist play with Jeff satisfies desires he didn't even know he had...

ARC provided by Carina Press via Netgalley

What a hot collection of short stories!

Double Shot features Sadie Long.  She's the middle child of the Long siblings and the cook of their coffee shop/catering business.  She's known her friend Paul for 10 years, having first met him when he was dating her best friend.  Ten years is a long time to lust after someone always out of reach.  All that changes when he hires her to cater a special party over at the sex club Maverick's.  She agrees soon after hearing his proposal and meeting the owner of Maverick's, Josh.  With Paul's parting question asking her what her fantasies are, she gets busy getting everything ready and fantasizing about not only Paul, but Josh too.

This is a hot little M/F/M number that involves self discovery and not limiting ones inhibitions.  It was steamy yet had a great plot at the same time.  It had everything I like in an erotica short.  This one rates a B.

A Shot in the Dark features the eldest of the Long siblings Paige.  Jaded from a bad relationship years prior, she's been out of the game and losing herself more and more each day.  She's runs the business end of Long Pulled and feels the strain of long hours and no social life.  While working late one night, a group comes in that is clearly dressed for an evening of fun and excitement at Maverick's.  Towering over the other group is Carter.  Oh, he's smooth.  Seriously smooth.  He's a quiet and intimidating Dom but once he sees her hesitancy, he backs off.  

Soon they meet up and their story unravels.  I liked Paige.  She has had it rough and it's not easy for her to trust.  But she's willing to try in order to heal herself.  Carter is dominant, yes, but sweet and gentle.  The D/s sex scenes were well done and highly creative. ;)  Paige's ex returns on the scene taking this new relationship with Carter to a whole new level.  This one rates an A.

Pulled Long features the youngest sibling, Ian, the coffee connoisseur for Pulled Long.  Having come out of the closet as a teen. he's had nothing but trouble in relationships.  Enter "blue eyes" who has been coming in almost daily for coffee now for about 8 months or so.  They have a definite connection but have kept their flirting to just that, flirting for fun.  But all of that stops when Ian learns that Jeff was married.   It's hard for Ian to get passed that.  He's had his experiences before with men questioning their own sexuality and wants no part of it.  But at midnight one night, Ian sees Jeff across the street in the rain and lets him in.

Things move at a great pace from there.  Jeff and Ian are hot together.  They have great chemistry and a voyeuristic side that comes out when they visit Maverick's one night.  Soon we find it's not Jeff that has issues that he needs to get passed.  He wants to be out in the open.  He's not trying to hide anything anymore and really likes Ian.  It's Ian that has personal demons that he has to get passed.  This was a great story of self discovery and letting love prevail.

Overall:  This short story bundle is great!  As far as erotica goes, it covers many different areas of kink.  We have M/F/M, D/s, M/M, sex clubs, whips and paddles...  But also happy ending without being to sappy.  This was a great find!  Up next in the Long Shots series is Calling the Shots finally featuring more of the sexy owner of Maverick's, Josh and I can't wait to start reading it! 

Long Shots bundle available at Amazon ~ Barnes & Noble 

Review ~ The Gravedigger's Brawl by Abigail Roux

The Gravedigger's Brawl

By Abigail Roux

5 out of 5 STARS

When the past comes back to haunt you, order a double.

Dr. Wyatt Case is never happier than when he’s walking the 

halls of his history museum. Playing wingman for his best friend at Gravedigger’s Tavern throws him way out of his comfort zone, but not as much as the eccentric man behind the bar, Ash Lucroix.

Ash is everything Wyatt doesn't understand: exuberant, quirky, and elbow deep in a Gaslight lifestyle that weaves history into everyday life. He coordinates his suspenders with his tongue rings. Within hours, Wyatt and Ash are hooked.

But strange things are afoot at Gravedigger’s, and after a knock to the head, Ash starts seeing things that can’t be explained by old appliances or faulty wiring. Soon everyone at Gravedigger’s is wondering if they’re seeing ghosts, or just going crazy. The answer to that question could end more than just Wyatt and Ash’s fragile relationship—it might also end their lives.

 

What do suspenders, tongue piercings, history museums, ghosts and taverns have in common?  All combined, they make a great freaking book!

Wyatt is the head curator at a history museum.  Having just finished construction on a new wing, the museum needs a fantastic new exhibit to bring in the masses.  Can you say stress?  Luckily, one of the fellow historians at the museum is his best friend.  Noah helps Wyatt get his mind off of things, even if Noah does have ulterior motives.

Enter The Garvedigger's Tavern.  Out to lunch, Noah can't help but introduce Wyatt to one of the bartenders.  Ash is decked out in his "gaslight" glory...  Trousers, suspenders, slicked back hair and a tongue ring with ever changing jewelry complete his look.  He's cheeky and has a knack for flair bartending.  I must admit, I fell for him immediately and it's no wonder that he intrigues Wyatt so much.

They have a rocky start but soon are spending quite a lot of time together.  Inspired by the ghost tours that hit up The Gravedigger's Tavern in the fan district, Wyatt starts researching the history of the fan district and a certain house specifically.  He's well on his way to to setting up the new exhibit when trouble strikes.

This book was fantastic!  We have humor, romance and sexy men.  What more could I ask for?  Oh yeah, to be creeped out!  I like a good spooky story!  This is a work of fiction but certain storylines are inspired by true, gruesome events like the LaLauries of New Orleans.  All combined I LOVED this book!  The pace is quick, the cast of characters quirky.  I enjoyed Noah and Caleb a lot!  Even Delilah and Ryan are fun to read about.  

I HIGHLY recommend this!  Get your copy today!

Available now through Amazon, Barnes & Noble and Riptide Publishing 

ARC provided by Riptide Publishing via Netgalley

Review ~ Building From Ashes by Elizabeth Hunter

Building From Ashes

(Elemental World #1)

By Elizabeth Hunter

4 out of 5 STARS

 

For a thousand years, powerful earth vampire Carwyn ap Bryn has served others. God. His family. His friends. But tragedy and loss disrupt his peaceful existence, causing him to question everything he has committed his eternity to.

Brigid Connor has known about vampires since they rescued her from a painful childhood. But not even their vast elemental power can save her from the demons that torment her.

As loyalties are tested and new paths are forged, a lurking danger slowly grows in the Elemental World. Carwyn and Brigid will learn that even secrets revealed can come back to haunt you when you least expect it.

A continuation/spinoff of the Elemental Mysteries series. The timeline in this books stretches from BEFORE A Hidden Fire starts (so you see a little character history) until AFTER A Fall of Water finishes. As I’m sure lots of you could tell, Carwyn had quite a few things going on in his life that didn’t make it into Gio and Beatrice’s story. So Building From Ashes explores that storyline and also sets up the Elemental World for some new adventures...

I'm a huge fan of the Elemental world that Elizabeth has created starting with A Hidden Fire.  Though this is a spin-off, I recommend starting with the Elemental Mysteries before diving into Building From Ashes.  I think it will definitely be worth your while as we read a whole new outlook into vampire lore. 

As stated in the synopsis above, this first installment in the Elemental World series overlaps a little bit with A Fall of Water.  It was great to get another side of the story!  Especially since it involves Carwyn! ;)  But let me break it down for you a little bit.

Carwyn has been a vampire for a really long time.  In life, he was married and joined the priesthood.   Times were different back then and that was acceptable at the time.  In death, he clung to his faith, helping those in need and creating a family of his own.  He has remained single even though he is a horrible flirt.  

"...I don't know.  Just never found the right woman, I suppose." 

"Ah." 

"And who would put up with me, honestly?" 

"You can be pretty charming when you want to be." 

He looked down and wiggled his eyebrows at her.  "Oh, really?" 

Beatrice burst into laughter and tugged at the collar of his garish Hawaiian short. "Yep, you're a regular knight in flowered armor.  You just need to find your damsel." 

"Oh," he groaned.  "I don't know.  I've never really seen the appeal of the 'damsel-in-distress', to be totally honest.  I'm not really the damsel type." 

"Well, maybe you need to find a knight, then." 

He grimaced.  "Definitely never seen the appeal of those."

Carwyn is one of the strongest and oldest Earth Vampires out there, vicious if messed with but compassionate and deeply caring for those he's close to.  Earth Vampires seem to like to nest and have big families.

Brigid has had a rough past, and one night Carwyn and Ioan visit her household, whisking her away to safety when she was just a child.  She's a human living with her aunt under the protections of Ioan, Carwyn's son.  

Their stories intersect at times throughout her childhood but soon she is no longer the young girl she once was, she's a woman now, and so much more...

'What do you know about the right office?  According to Ioan, you wear Hawaiian shirts under your vestements.  Not to mention your rumored television habits.'    

'Lies.  All lies.  I'm a picture of devotion and obedience.  Highly appropriate at all times.'  

Irritating children, telling on him like that.  Carwyn frowned and poked his son in the shoulder.  Ioan and  Deirdre were sitting in the pew in from of him.  His son looked over his shoulder, then between the two of them and the note Brigid held in her lap.   

"Behave, both of you," Ioan whispered.  "Brigid, I expect this behavior out of him, but not you.  Father Jacob is in the middle of the homily."

The pace is slower at the beginning as it jumps around in time so we can get a glimpse of both Carwyn and Brigid's past.  But then we are thrust in the middle of a mystery to be solved and dealing with major changes in Brigid's life and their growing attraction.  

I really enjoyed this book.  Carwyn is compassionate and extremely hilarious.  He's so cheeky, I love him!  Brigid is strong and independent, asking for help when necessary, complimenting Carwyn greatly.  The plot is pretty involved but easy to get caught up in!   Another stellar story from Elizabeth.  With this first installment in the Elemental World, I can't wait to see what comes next! 

Available for purchase through Amazon and Smashwords now. Nook users, it will be available though Barnes & Noble soon.  In the meantime, you can get a copy though Smashwords for your reader. 

Want more info on Elizabeth Hunter?
Elizabeth Hunter Writes
Elemental Mysteries website
On Goodreads
On Twitter

Review ~ Double Time by Olivia Cunning

Double Time

(Sinners on Tour #3)

By Olivia Cunning

5 out of 5 STARS

Olivia Cunning delivers the perfect blend of steamy sex, heartwarming romance, and a wicked sense of humor in this menage story featuring the hottest guy in the Sinners band.

Trey Mills, the notoriously sexy Sinners rhythm guitarist, gives up his bisexual lifestyle and is swept into a hot, heady romance with Reagan Elliot, a female rock star sensation. But when Trey encounters Reagan's sexy bisexual roommate, Ethan Conner, he can no longer deny who he is or what he wants. Reagan heartily agrees to a solution that opens up a hot new world of sexual experience--and love--with the two men she wants the most.

ARC provided by Sourcebooks Casablanca

Expected publication: November 1st, 2012

Pre-order Double Time at Amazon or Barnes & Noble 

Holy hell hotness.  Yes, that is how I am starting my review.  I loved pretty much everything about this book and devoured it in no time.  Let me break it down for you...

Trey...  I was intrigued by Trey from the very first book in the series, Backstage Pass.  As the rhythm guitarist for the Sinners, he's had his fair share of one night stands with both men and women.  He's what I like to think of as an equal opportunity type of person for sex but his heart has truly only belonged to one person.  We have see his struggles with trying to get past his feelings for Brian, even more so now that Brian and Myrna have a baby.  But it is not easy...

Reagan had auditioned for the band Exodus End, who are searching for a new rhythm guitarist.  She ends up meeting the Mills brothers at Dares house and  sparks fly.  She ends up going on tour with the Sinners to get used to the tour life before her tour finally begins with Exodus End.  

Ethan is Reagan's roommate.  They once had a relationship that was ruined when she caught him cheating with a man.  Ethan never really came clean to Reagan about his bi tendencies so now she just thinks he's gay.   Still harboring deep feelings for her, he's very protective and soon joins the tour as her security detail.  There is a threat and he's there to deal with it. 

Things move fairly quickly with Trey and Reagan.  They have a definite connection but Trey is holding back a vital piece of information from her.  He has yet to tell her he swings both ways and it's made more difficult when Reagan's roommate Ethan starts giving him sexy eyes. 

Through all this, Dare is quite supportive of his little brother and wants the best for him.

"... Is she okay with your bisexual side?"
"She doesn't know.  And I'm not going to tell her.  I'm giving up me."
Dare shook his head at him.
"Right, Trey.  Good plan," he said sarcastically.
"Her ex is bisexual.  She caught him cheating on her with a man.  She's not very open to that kind of thing."
"Hmmm," Dare said, munching on a slice of apple, his green eyes reflective.  "You should dump her now then.  She'll just wind up hurt when you put your snake in a dark tunnel."

Trey can't keep his true feelings hidden any longer and let's Reagan know.  But Reagan and Ethan come up with a plan.  A very sexy plan.

This was a fantastic installment in the Sinners on Tour series!  I loved it all.  Trey is one of my favorite characters.  We've seen him go through so much in just the first 2 books with Brian and the surgery.  I'm so happy he got such a fabulous book!  It's not without some heartache but he finally has happiness with Reagan and Ethan.  And it is so flipping hot!  Reagan is an extremely likable partner and I'm so happy that she's so understanding with Trey and his needs.  Which brings us to Ethan.  He messed up with Reagan before not telling her the truth but that's all resolved now to make this one hell of an exciting and steamy book!

Review ~ Men of Smithfield: Mark and Tony

Men of Smithfiled: Mark and Tony

By L.B. Gregg

4 out of 5 STARS

Coming home from work to find my boyfriend banging our hairy, married landlord -- in our bed -- was bad enough. Discovering Jamie had also cleaned out my bank accounts made it officially the worst day of my life. I think I can be forgiven for wanting revenge, even if a few little laws (and possibly Jamie's nose) got bent in the process.

Fortunately, the law is on my side in the form of my oldest friend, Tony Gervase. I've tried to deny my attraction to the sexy trooper for years. After all, he made it clear long ago that he wasn't interested in me that way. But if the hot encounter in his kitchen is any indication, he is now. At least the day is ending a whole lot better than it began...

But the morning after, the Jamie situation goes from bad to seriously messed up. The jerk's in more trouble than I could have imagined. And as it turns out, I don't know Tony as well as I thought I did either...

 

ARC provided by Carina Press

Published August 6th, 2012

Coming in at about 36,000 words, this short story has a lot going for it.

The very first chapter in this book was surprising and I was eager to continue.  Having been betrayed, Mark confronts Jamie in the unlikeliest of places and all hell breaks loose.  Seriously, this book for being so short, has a fast pace and great writing.

Mark is back in contact with Tony, his friend from years ago, with all the craziness happening between him and Jamie.  Jamie has completely changed, not resembling the man Mark thought he knew, so he turns to Tony for help.  Tony is law enforcement and a sexy alpha at that.

This was a great little story with mystery and intrigue, some great one liners and a satisfying ending.  I really enjoyed Mark and Tony.  They were hot together.  Smoldering.  And I was highly entertained!

Looking for some hot M/M action with a great plot?  Give this a try today!
Amazon ~ Barnes & Noble

Review ~ Frat Boy and Toppy

Frat Boy and Toppy

By Anne Tenino

4 out of 5 STARS

Brad is great at meeting other people's expectations. But his own? Not so much. Take the gay thing. Okay, so yeah. It took a morning meeting with a frat brother's hairy, naked ass for him to admit it, but he knows the truth about himself now. Let the gay life commence.

Unfortunately, it's not that easy. He hasn't quite determined how to come out to anyone, even Sebastian, the geeky-hot TA in his history class. Sebastian is everything Brad is not. Intellectual, suave, hairy. Out. And he doesn't seem interested in Brad, even when Brad makes a fool of himself trying to catch his notice.

Score one for foolery: Sebastian does more than notice Brad; he takes him to bed. Brad's been with plenty of girls, but with Sebastian, the sex is something else entirely-hot, mind-blowing, affirming, and a little domineering in a way that drives him wild. But when great sex turns into something more-dare he admit the "L" word?-Brad must face the crushing realization that Sebastian doesn't feel the same. Unless, of course, he does. After all, even grad students can be idiots about matters of the heart.

ARC provided by Riptide Publishing

Available now at Amazon ~ Barnes & Noble 

This novel, at just under 200 pages, was a heartfelt story of an early 20's college student coming-out.  Brad has been in denial for quite some time.  But lately, he's been having frequent dreams and conscious thoughts that leave no doubt that he's gay.  Trouble is?  He's a macho jock in a fraternity with the reputation as a ladies man.  

Enter Sebastian, the TA in his history class.  Brad has been fantasizing for weeks about him.   After trying to get Sebastian's attention in history class, he takes it to the next level when he confronts him at a kegger.  He was quite shy about it, not knowing the right way to show Sebastian his true intentions.  But from here we watch as their relationship grows while at the same time Brad is deciding how to come-out to his frat brothers.

Though this book does contain some HOT M/M scenes, it really is a heartwarming story.   He comes to terms with his new found realization and his ever growing affection for Sebastian.  I guess this is labeled a romantic comedy but I really hate that phrase.  There's a funny scene where Brad is explaining some really graphic things to his very hetero friend, it was hilarious!  I highly recommend this if your looking for a quick, uplifting afternoon read!

The Devil's Metal tour ~ Review

The Devil's Metal

By Karina Halle

5 out of 5 STARS

It’s the summer of 1974 and 21-year old Dawn Emerson has only three things she wants to do: compete one last time in the Ellensburg Rodeo, win back her ex-boyfriend Ryan, and become the best damn music journalist at Central Washington University. But all her plans are left in the dust when she’s contacted by Creem magazine to go on the road with one of her favorite groups, the up-and-coming metal band, Hybrid. 

At first the assignment reads like a dream come true. Not only will Dawn land some much-needed credibility as a female music journalist, but she’ll finally get to experience life from the other side of the stage, and maybe crack the drunken, enigmatic code that is guitarist Sage Knightly. Instead, Dawn finds herself on an aging tour bus filled with ego-maniacs, band politics and a whole lot of sex, drugs and rock n’ roll. When monsters start showing up in dressing rooms and some of Sage’s groupies become increasingly strange and dangerous, Dawn discovers the band is not only going places – they’re going straight to Hell. 

And Dawn has a backstage pass.

***

Additional info: the Devil's Metal is a New Adult Paranormal Romance

Author Info:

Karina Halle is a music journalist and all around wino who resides in beautiful British Columbia. When she's not rocking out or taking a nap, she can be found writing her ghost-hunting Experiment in Terror Series.


Links :

Blog | Twitter | Goodreads | Amazon

 ...The road to hell is paved with good intentions...

(Unknown)

Karina Halle has become one of my favorite authors not only for her writing style but her strong character developments and fantastically written plots. She's an auto buy for me and I'm so happy to read something new straight from the mind of this creative genius.

Ever wonder what it would be like to be on a tour bus with men of mass sex appeal, alcohol, drinking and demons at every stop?  No?  Well take a dive into The Devil's Metal and see what it's like through the eyes of a small town girl named Dawn as she goes on tour with Hybrid to write an article for Creem Magazine.

The characters... Dawn is a great lead character. She's authentic and deals with everything that is thrown at her with a strong spine. So much crazy stuff happens but she keeps her cool. Sage is a mystery but a great one at that.  Sage is, well, something else entirely. Not paranormally speaking. He's just this sexy, dark and mysterious puzzle that slowly unravels. His page time with Dawn is fantastic and eagerly had me flipping pages to see what would happen next.  But first how about a quick tease from the book to describe Sage...

I kept my eyes moving and settled on the last person on the bus. The person sitting at the end of the long couch.
Sage Knightly.
He was leaning against the wall with a book in hand, his long, black-jean clad legs sprawled in front of him. On his feet were his trademark flip-flops, his wide upper body in a wide-collared black shirt that was unbuttoned halfway, a peek of his scruffy firm chest popping through. Tattoos drifted out of the sleeves and onto his forearms. He was looking at me with all the intensity in the world, and in my numb state I couldn't read any expression on his face. His gray-green eyes were clear and piercing, framed dramatically by his low, strong brows. Black curly hair fell softly on his forehead and onto the sides. His dimpled chin was strong, his bottom lip was full with an upper lip that curved sweetly. His skin was bronzed and looked more exotic in person, alluding to his rumored Hispanic ancestry.
He was the man on my wall.
My musical hero.
My musical crush.
And he was on the bus, sitting there, right in front of me.

The cast of characters is varied and they all add different layers to this book. I enjoyed all of them immensely. Even the creepy ones. Those are the ones you have to watch out for.  Well, Jacob too.  I'm definitely keeping my eye on him. ;)

The plot... From the start the plot is set at a great pace. We aren't overwhelmed with too much information and are given just enough to give us clues for what is to come and keep us on the edge of our seats. The scenes flow from one to the other very smoothly and set up a wicked pace for the last half of the book. The horror elements are laced in with fantastic imagery and build-up to a terrifying speed.

Another highly enjoyable part of the book is all the music. Music is a passion of mine and I love how this is not only rich with decade inspired fashion and language, but how authentic all the music aspects are. The clubs, the tours, the fans... I was thrown into a decade long since passed and I loved every minute of it.  Extra bonus was the insight on what it is to be a female music journalist.  I'm sure it's not an easy road but one Dawn handles surprisingly well with her integrity intact.

I just have to finish by saying two things.
The last two chapters. HOLY CRAP! Seriously! Grab onto your seat 'cause it's a wild ride! Karina finished the story arc perfect in my opinion and left a few lingering questions as a great segue for the sequel. Fantastic. I couldn't have asked for a different conclusion.
Second thing I want to say? Holy hell Batman hot steamy sexy times! Whew! She knows how to write a sex scene without being too crude or having it be unbelievable. The scenes were perfect and complimented the story completely.

If you are in the market for something new and unique, this book is for you. It's sexy and terrifying all at the same time!  Give it a try today!

Please check back Thursday for a guest post from Karina Halle for The Devil's Metal tour!  You can also check out my Karina Halle tag for all my reviews and guest posts.

Giveaway 1 : a Rafflecopter giveaway Giveaway 2 : a Rafflecopter giveaway

Review ~ The Druid Stone

The Druid Stone

By Heidi Belleau & Violetta Vane

3 out of 5 STARS

Sean never asked to be an O'Hara, and he didn't ask to be cursed by one either.

After inheriting a hexed druid stone from his great-grandfather, Sean starts reliving another man's torture and death...every single night. And only one person can help.

Cormac Kelly runs a paranormal investigation business and doesn't have time to deal with misinformed tourists like Sean. But Sean has real magic in his pocket, and even though Cormac is a descendant of legendary druids, he soon finds himself out of his depth...and not because Sean's the first man he's felt anything for in a long time.

The pair develop an unexpected and intensely sexual bond, but are threatened at every turn when Sean's case attracts the unwelcome attention of the mad sidhe lords of ancient Ireland. When Sean and Cormac are thrust backward in time to Ireland's violent history—and their own dark pasts—they must work together to escape the curse and save their fragile relationship.

ARC provided by Carina Press

Available now at Amazon 

This was a hot M/M story that includes Celtic Mythology.  Sean is of mixed heritage.  Cuban and Irish.  But he doesn't really interact with the Irish side of the family except for a cousin.  He's been plagued by a reoccurring nightmare.  Trying to get help, he has emailed and written to a Druid in Ireland by the name of Cormac Kelly.  Cormac thinking Sean is just another American trying to get in touch with his Irish roots, throws the letters away and deletes the emails without ever reading them.

Sean is desperate.  He ends up using up most of his savings in order to travel to Ireland to get answers.  Once at Cormac's place, he gets an idea of what Cormac is about, sexually.  Doesn't bother Sean.  He doesn't seem to swing that way but has no problems with it being thrust in his face.

Well Cormac can be an ass.  Without truly believing Sean, he says good riddance and sends him on his way.  Sean starts wondering the village and surrounding area and gets into trouble.  

This start the journey of a now helpful Cormac and Sean as they try to get answers and see the best way to fix this problem.

The attraction between the two is slow at first.  But HOT!   I thoroughly enjoyed the first part of this book.  It was fast paced, great character growth, interesting plot.  I totally got lost the last half.  So much happens that I could not really keep up.  It was one thing after another and left me confused.  At one point, I had to skim.  I hate doing that.  But, with all that said, I did still enjoy it.  It just dropped from 4 stars to 3 though due to the confusion.  

This book was hot though.  I like a good M/M thrown into the mix and this fit the bill nicely.  Hot guys, hot sex, a satisfying ending...  The only thing I didn't care for was that all the action at the end confused the bejeesus out of me.  But other readers may not have that problem.  I haven't read many books that deal with Celtic mythology so that may have stumped me.  But I would definitely recommend it!  

Want a hot quote?

"Tell me to stop," he growled into the hollow of Sean's throat, tasting the smoke, and he didn't know whether he was daring Sean or begging him.  One of his hands twisted rough fingers into the fabric of Sean's shirt, the other skimming down the flat planes of his chest ad stomach to cover the shape of his cock trapped under his fly, and -fuck- yes, he was hard too.

Review ~ The Reluctant Amazon by Sandy James

The Reluctant Amazon

(Alliance of the Amazons #1)

By Sandy James

3 out of 5 STARS

The last thing Rebecca Massee expects on her wedding day is to go from jilted kindergarten teacher to Amazonian Earth warrior. But when she causes an earthquake after her groom says I don’t, she discovers that not only does she possess incredible powers, she is one of four lost chosen sisters who must fight to keep humanity safe from rogue gods and demons. Luckily she has help: ruggedly handsome Scottish warrior Artair MacKay, her protector and teacher.

An immortal, Artair has trained countless warriors for more than four hundred years. He understands Rebecca’s confusion at the new world she’s been thrust into and worries she is too emotionally vulnerable, but that doesn’t stop his growing feelings for the beautiful and fearless woman. 

When an evil force threatens to destroy the Amazons, Rebecca must claim her full powers--but they come at a cost. Can she sacrifice the man she loves if it means saving the world?

ARC provided by Carina Press

Released September 3rd ~ available at Amazon 

This is a unique concept that I have not read before.  There are generations of Amazons that may be called in for duty.  Rebecca is called to duty while being turned down at the alter.  Ouch, that had to hurt!  But?  What better way to make an exit than to follow the sexy man in a kilt who has come for her.  Yep, enter Artair MacKay.  He's the Sentinel for the Amazons.  Sentinel duties include finding the recently called Amazons, training and helping them out.

Rebecca is an Earth Amazon.  Reluctant to believe that any of this could be real, she soon learns that revenants AKA creepy zombie creatures are real as she finds her new sister Megan, the Fire Amazon.

Rebecca is slow at learning the tricks of the trade.  The first third of the book is all about training and a slowly budding attraction between her and Artair.  

The middle part moves a little faster as she finally takes to training and coming into her own powers.  She meets up with her other two sisters that have been training with the new Sentinel and finally we get a glimpse of what the evil they are facing in this installment is up to.

The last part of the book moves pretty quickly and it was wonderful to see Rebecca go from shrinking violet to kick ass heroine.  She really steps up.  Her and Artair have something special though it is forbidden but luckily everything works out.

The end was a whirlwind of action leaving off with a very satisfying ending and an opening for what's to come  in the next installment. 

Overall?  I liked it.  Great romance in the making, kick ass chicks, some hot sex...  Can't wait for book 2, The Impetuous Amazon due out early 2013.

Review ~ Slammed by Colleen Hoover

Slammed

By Colleen Hoover

4 out of 5 STARS

Following the unexpected death of her father, 18-year-old Layken is forced to be the rock for both her mother and younger brother. Outwardly, she appears resilient and tenacious, but inwardly, she's losing hope. 

Enter Will Cooper: The attractive, 21-year-old new neighbor with an intriguing passion for slam poetry and a unique sense of humor. Within days of their introduction, Will and Layken form an intense emotional connection, leaving Layken with a renewed sense of hope.

Not long after an intense, heart-stopping first date, they are slammed to the core when a shocking revelation forces their new relationship to a sudden halt. Daily interactions become impossibly painful as they struggle to find a balance between the feelings that pull them together, and the secret that keeps them apart.

ARC provided by Netgalley

Available at Amazon & Barnes & Noble 

First I have to say I am not a fan of the cover.  BUT, I'm so glad I looked past that and gave this a try.  A few friends on Goodreads with similar tastes raved about this so I had to give it a try.  I am SO GLAD I did!    This was a beautiful story with heartbreak in more ways than one, great character strength and a strong sense of family connection/responsibility. 

We meet Layken as she is pulling into their new home in Michigan having just moved from Texas.  Her father died just a few months before and times are hard for her mom so the move takes place.  Within minutes of arriving, her little brother Kel finds a friend in the form of Caulder.  Soon we see that Caulder has a good looking older brother by the name of Will.

I can't say too much for fear of giving anything away.  Sparks fly immediately between Layken and Will but soon they are put to the test as a very unfortunate circumstance takes place.  

This was a really beautifully written story with many emotions coming into play.  A heartbreaking situation takes this to a whole new level as the characters have to find their strength and balance in the world. 

I totally recommend this.    I have never read anything with slam poetry before and this was amazing!  Such passion comes right off the page.  I also have to admit, this book had me in tears.  

Review ~ The Angel by Tiffany Reisz

The Angel

(Original Sinners #2)

By Tiffany Reisz

5 out of 5 STARS

No safe word can protect the heart.  Infamous erotica author and accomplished dominatrix Nora Sutherlin is doing something utterly out of character: hiding. While her longtime lover, Søren—whose fetishes, if exposed, would be his ruin—is under scrutiny pending a major promotion, Nora's lying low and away from temptation in the lap of luxury.

Her host, the wealthy and uninhibited Griffin Fiske, is thrilled to have Nora stay at his country estate, especially once he meets her traveling companion. Young, inexperienced and angelically beautiful, Michael has become Nora's protégé, and this summer with Griffin is going to be his training, where the hazing never ends.

But while her flesh is willing, Nora's mind is wandering. To thoughts of Søren, her master, under investigation by a journalist with an ax to grind. And to another man from Nora's past, whose hold on her is less bruising, but whose secrets are no less painful. It's a summer that will prove the old adage: love hurts.

ARC provided by Harlequin

Release date: September 25th, 2012.

Yowsa.  This was a fanfreakingtastic follow up to The Siren.  The Angel definitely did not suffer from any sequel syndrome and for that I am very happy.

The Angel picks up about a year from where The Siren ended.  Nora has gone back to Søren and tried to move on from any lingering vanilla fantasies she may have. She's still writing with the help of her editor though that is secondary.  A journalist is snooping about so Nora takes a summer break to Griffin's house with an accompanied guest to keep the nosy questions at bay.

What a summer.  So much happens.  SO MUCH!  The characters continue to grow right before my very eyes making this quite an emotional ride.

Nora did not want to leave but is given a task, albeit a pleasurable one, while she is away.  But it's not that simple, no.  She's still mourns the loss of a friend and also worries about the privacy of her loved one.

Griffin is drawn to the new guest.  He's dominant and unapologetically open.  This trust fund baby has a different side then we first catch a glimpse of in The Siren.

Michael.  Beautiful, quiet, submissive Michael.  I was really pleased with the secondary character developments in this story.  Sure, I love to hear about Nora and Søren but the other story being told is just as beautiful and emotionally charged as the primary.

I really don't know what to say about this book.  I had feelings of doubt where the journalist was involved but it was great to find out so much more about the enigmatic man of the cloth, Søren.  As we learn some of his deep dark secrets,  we get a closer look at this compassionate, intelligent, yet dominant man and what makes him tick.

This was an amazing book and I can't wait for The Prince, due out this November, to see what happens next in the crazy life of Nora Sutherlin.

This book contains extremely erotic situations:  BDSM, M/M, M/F/M.  This one gets a "wet panty" alert from me. ;)

Favorite quotes:

"How are you, little one?" came Søren's voice over the line.
"Lonely for a certain six-foot-four blonde Scandinavian guy I know."
"Anyone I know?"
"Alexander Skasgard."

"Oh...  see.  Also, now I'm wondering if they make butt plugs with built-in thermometers.  You know, for when you might have a slight fever, and the urge for anal penetration."
"Your mind is both fascinating and repulsive," Zach said.

Pre-order The Angel at: Amazon ~ Barnes & Noble