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Raezin

Raezin

has 29 followers and is following 52 people

I can't get enough of books!!!
They are always the perfect escape or the best of friends :)
  • Louisville, KY, USA
  • member since February 7, 2012
  1. Jonetta (Ejaygirl)
  2. 2 hours ago | Comments (4) | (0 Likes)
    •    …
    • JustinSwapp
      JustinSwapp: To what?
      2 hours ago | reply
    • Jonetta (Ejaygirl)
      Jonetta (Ejaygirl): Yes!!! Thank you very much:)
      1 hour ago | 1 reply | reply
      • Monica
        Monica:

        Of course! I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. Just a heads up, Devlin isn't a major player in this one. But honestly, it makes the next book that much sweeter. Aaaand the story is so good, Stevens is easily forgiven ;)

        23 minutes ago
  3. Jonetta (Ejaygirl)

    Jonetta (Ejaygirl) rated a book.

    The Pardon

    • Rated 3 stars

  4. 2 hours ago | Comments (0) | (0 Likes)
  5. Kate

    Kate plans to read a book.

  6. 3 hours ago | Comments (0) | (0 Likes)
  7. Under The Covers Book Blog

    Under The Covers Book Blog reviewed a book.

    In Flight

    3.5 Stars
    ~Reviewed by ANN & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    I cruised through this book. With Lilley’s writing, it’s an easy one to devour. ~ Under the Covers

    Billionaire Doms. Will it ever get old? So far, I’m still enjoying them and Lilley’s take on it is exciting....

    3.5 Stars
    ~Reviewed by ANN & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    I cruised through this book. With Lilley’s writing, it’s an easy one to devour. ~ Under the Covers

    Billionaire Doms. Will it ever get old? So far, I’m still enjoying them and Lilley’s take on it is exciting. Bianca is a flight attendant who has a dark past. When she meets James Cavendish, a young, enigmatic billionaire hotel owner, she is immediately drawn to his grace and his body. James is quite the character. He knows what he wants and he will endeavor to get it, whatever it takes. As Bianca becomes his most coveted possession, he soon learns that there is more to the woman than just her submissive nature and her pretty looks. They both share a dark past that makes the BDSM they share together that much more intimate and thrilling.

    Fans of both the Crossfire series and 50 Shades of Grey would probably enjoy this book. While I wasn’t a fan of 50, I do enjoy the Crossfire series. This book has the same elements, but the flight attendant touch is fresh and unique.

    I cruised through this book. With Lilley’s writing, it’s an easy one to devour. However, I did think that some scenes were a little unbelievable. The sex scenes were hot and intense, but I wouldn’t necessarily say they were always correct. Since Bianca is new to BDSM and a virgin to boot, all the sex at full throttle seemed like too much in some places. Also, Bianca’s ability to come on command definitely seemed far-fetched. Apart from that though, I was curious enough to learn more about the characters.

    The last 50 pages or so is when things get a little crazy. Readers will learn what it is about their pasts that mold them into who they are now. It’s heartbreaking, but makes for such a great story. All the action at the very in seemed a little too quick for me. I would have liked to see more of that and perhaps spend more time on the aftermath, but that’s what the second book is for and you can be sure that I will be checking it out to know what happens next!

    While I liked Bianca and James together, it was Stephan whom I really, really loved. His presence throughout Bianca’s life is touching and incredible. I love how protective and caring he is. I am hoping that he gets his own HEA soon too.

    (read full review)
  8. 6 hours ago | Comments (0) | Was this review helpful? Yes (0) | No (0)
  9. Under The Covers Book Blog

    Under The Covers Book Blog reviewed a book.

    Armed and Dangerous

    ~Reviewed by ANGELA & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    I enjoyed Shane and Daisy’s steamy beginning. I have no doubt readers who enjoy a hot romantic suspense read will enjoy this as well. ~Under the Covers Book Blog

    Juvenile Detective Daisy Callahan and Detective Shane...

    ~Reviewed by ANGELA & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    I enjoyed Shane and Daisy’s steamy beginning. I have no doubt readers who enjoy a hot romantic suspense read will enjoy this as well. ~Under the Covers Book Blog

    Juvenile Detective Daisy Callahan and Detective Shane Ford are paired up for a special missing persons assignment where they attend a secret sub-club…as a couple. Though they never had any relations other than work, they had always been attracted to each other. Well, this assignment will definitely tip them over the top and fall into their desires.

    I actually read this book after I’ve read Sworn to Protect, which is the first installment of this series. I’m glad I went back and read this book because this novella is the introduction to their relationship, which was mentioned in Sworn to Protect but not in detail. We also see more interaction at the precinct. The banters and comebacks were hilarious.

    Armed and Dangerous is a quick hot read, preparing readers for what to expect in this series.

    I enjoyed Shane and Daisy’s steamy beginning. I have no doubt readers who enjoy a hot romantic suspense read will enjoy this as well.

    (read full review)
  10. 6 hours ago | Comments (0) | Was this review helpful? Yes (0) | No (0)
  11. Under The Covers Book Blog

    Under The Covers Book Blog reviewed a book.

    Clear Water

    Reviewed by Guest Reviewer/Leigh & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    “For those of you who love a sweet, beautiful love story with little angst, CLEAR WATER is for you.” ~Under the Covers

    Oh, how I just loved this book!! What a beautiful, sweet story – a definite keeper and...

    Reviewed by Guest Reviewer/Leigh & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    “For those of you who love a sweet, beautiful love story with little angst, CLEAR WATER is for you.” ~Under the Covers

    Oh, how I just loved this book!! What a beautiful, sweet story – a definite keeper and addition to the re-read pile!

    From the outside looking in, Patrick Cleary has it made. He is the son of a self-made millionaire, and even though he’s twenty-three, he is living comfortably on daddy’s dime. But that doesn’t even scratch the surface. Patrick flounders through life and love. He can’t hold a job for very long, and he has been unsure of what he wants to do for a career for years. His mother left when he was young, and he doesn’t have a good relationship with his dad. He rambles when he speaks, has an inordinate amount of energy, and is impulsive. According to himself, he is a spaz and a fuck-up. Sounds kinda crazy, right? Nope, not at all. What Patrick is, is a sufferer of ADHD – attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder. While he takes medication to help with his ADHD symptoms, he has no support from either his father or anyone else in his life, which includes his scum-bag boyfriend at the beginning of the book. He’s repeatedly looked down upon, and his words have no value to his loved ones. Before long, Patrick is in a precarious position and left for dead. Fortunately, science researcher extraordinaire, Wesley Keenan (aka Whiskey), is in the right place at the right time and saves Patrick from his near-fateful night.

    What Patrick has been missing all is life is found with Whiskey. Whiskey and his fellow researcher and best friend, Fly Bait (who is one bad-ass female character, by the way), are researchers living in a boat on the Sacramento River, trying to ascertain anomalies found in some of the tadpoles and frogs in the river. Whiskey takes Patrick in and nurses him back to health after his accident, and before long, Whiskey and Fly Bait decide to let Patrick stay with them on the boat and help with their research. Whiskey is patient with Patrick, and he works with Patrick to help him maintain calm, providing him with the tools necessary to cope with the symptoms of his ADHD. He cares for Patrick for who he is and not what his dad’s money can buy. He provides Patrick with the reassurance that he is not a fuck-up, and that he is perfect just the way he is. What eventually develops after saving Patrick and taking him in is a profound friendship and a beautiful love story.

    Patrick and Whiskey are both completely lovable characters. Patrick is about 13 years younger than Whiskey, but these men work so well for each other, the age difference is not a factor at all. While Whiskey is often seen and portrayed as the rock that Patrick needs in life – and he is – Patrick provides what Whiskey needs in life as well. Patrick is a snarky smart-ass, helpful, and is strong in his own way…a way that totally resonates with Whiskey. As their friendship grows, both men have strong feelings for the other, but they both push them aside, worried that escalating the relationship to one that is sexual could be dangerous to the relationship they’ve built. Patrick has a poor history with past boyfriends, and he equates sex with being used for his body and not loved for who he is. Whiskey doesn’t want to take advantage of Patrick, and wants Patrick to be in the right place in his heart and mind before they take things to the next step. Their chemistry, however, takes over like the boiling water in a lidded pot: watch out, because when the pressure builds and the lid pops, things get incredibly hot and steamy.

    Amy Lane is an amazing writer, and she is notorious for writing books full of some serious angst. CLEAR WATER is another of her amazing books, but there is not much angst in it. I am fine with either, so the lack of angst didn’t bother me at all. For those of you who love a sweet, beautiful love story with little angst, CLEAR WATER is for you. You will not be disappointed!

    Here is one of my favorite quotes from the book:

    Oh, God. Patrick. Patrick is proof that you are there. You could have let him just sink into the black river alone, but you gave him me, and then you gave me him.

    (read full review)
  12. 6 hours ago | Comments (0) | Was this review helpful? Yes (0) | No (0)
  13. Under The Covers Book Blog

    Under The Covers Book Blog reviewed a book.

    Unbeautifully (Undeniable)

    ~Reviewed by FRANCESCA & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    Madeline Sheehan’s books brand me every single time. ~Under the Covers

    I read a lot of books. Honestly, a lot of times, plots and characters feel interchangeable and I can’t remember which scene went with what book. ...

    ~Reviewed by FRANCESCA & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    Madeline Sheehan’s books brand me every single time. ~Under the Covers

    I read a lot of books. Honestly, a lot of times, plots and characters feel interchangeable and I can’t remember which scene went with what book. That doesn’t mean I didn’t enjoy those books, just that they didn’t make a mark on me.

    Madeline Sheehan’s books brand me every single time. They are burned into my memory, they become a part of me. Why? Quite simple, actually, and UNBEAUTIFULLY is another great example of what Madeline does often and does well…

    UNBEAUTIFULLY grabbed not only my mind, but my heart, from the very beginning. For a while, it made me soar with happiness even in a world where that’s not the norm. Soon thereafter it proceeded to beat the hell out of said heart, leaving me bruised and battered, heart aching, tears spilling. And when I thought I couldn’t take anymore, it punched me in the gut and twisted the knife in a bit more. Yeah, I admit that from the 50% mark on I was probably crying most of the time.

    No, this is not a fluffy book, it’s dark and gritty as you can expect from this series. No, this is not a “happy” read. It’s sad, it’s emotional, it’s about the fucked up side of life that some people face and then takes that to the extreme. It’s BEAUTIFUL and I loved every second of it and every character.

    The love between Ripper and Danny was pure and true, and yeah, shit happened. If it had been anyone else, or another relationship, there would’ve been no turning back. But they fought for their love and their HEA.

    Ripper, well Ripper is damaged. We knew that, we expected a rough ride. He was disfigured by Frankie and almost killed in book one. But he’s still here, just a shell of his old self, seeing himself as a monster. A monster not only in appearance, but also his work with the MC. Yeah, Ripper is a badass biker, people ARE afraid.

    Danny in all her beautiful innocence was the perfect blend to throw at him and soften his edges. To bring out the real Ripper. To make him fall hard. I loved the fact that their story and their characters were completely different from Deuce and Eva but not less explosive. Tempers flying and hot, sexy, raw sex to be had.

    But I don’t know if I should be happy or sad that this book wasn’t 100% about them. You know what? I’m happy. Deuce and Eva have their own corner of the pages of UNBEAUTIFULLY and it was necessary. After what happened at the end of UNDENIABLE it couldn’t all fall magically into place and they would be HEA without work. Ms. Sheehan showed us just how much work it takes to reel Deuce in. Damnit, but he had to twist the knife in some more in this book because I didn’t have enough to forgive him in the first book. *sigh* If you loved him in the first one, you’ll feel the same with this one, but you’ll fall harder for him and his internal struggle. I know I shouldn’t love him, but like Eva, I can’t help myself.

    Then there’s Cage and Tegen. I NEED. I NEED NOW. I CAN’T WAIT. Ummmm I’ll try to contain my fangirl excitement here because I NEED TO HAVE THEIR STORY NOW, NOW, NOW!! No, don’t worry, these books don’t end in cliffhangers but you’ll NEED to have more of this world. So,, please pretty please Ms. Sheehan? Can we speed this one up a bit? ;)

    And since I can’t do this book justice in a review I’m just going to say that although this series is probably not for everyone (faint of heart need not apply), if you haven’t read it, you’re missing out. Be sure to read them with a stiff drink handy, along with a box of kleenex and plenty of space to curl up in a ball and weep without being bothered. Then as you try to breathe again, refill that drink.

    Favorite Quotes:

    ***Too many to post all, I highlighted the sh*t out of this book***

    Man like me got no business with a girl like you. You’re nothin’ but fuckin’ beauty and I’m a whole lot of fuckin’ ugly who’s already halfway to hell.

    Maybe this was how his miserable life was finally going to end: death by pussy.

    She was the reason his world was about to shatter again.

    It wasn’t the first time a bitch had told him she loved him, but it was the first time he’d wanted to say it back.

    I wanna rip you the fuck open,” he said, breathing harder as his thrusts became brutal. “I want all of me inside all of you, not just my fuckin’ cock, baby, but all of me. All of you.

    It was that very moment, a mere pittance in the span of his lifetime, that after he’d lost Danny, would become his happiest memory, the one Ripper would hold closest to his heart and cherish above all others. The one he’d lay awake at night playing on repeat.
    Wishing…
    Wishing…
    Wishing…
    …she still loved him.

    Cox Kami screamed, stalking into the room. “Shut your stupid Mexican mouth! Cox glared at her. B itch, I’m Puerto Rican!
    She waves her hand dismissively. Whatever. Don’t you have some lawsn to mow?
    I’m Puerto fuckin’ Rican!

    “Are we fighting or fucking?

    All scars tell a story, beautiful girl, he said, releasing me to trace the marks on my stomach…
    And mine, he said softly, grabbing my hand, trailing my palm across his cheek and then his chest. Tell the story of how I found you.

    (read full review)
  14. 6 hours ago | Comments (0) | Was this review helpful? Yes (0) | No (0)
  15. Under The Covers Book Blog

    Under The Covers Book Blog reviewed a book.

    The Princess and the Porn Star

    ~Reviewed by ANN & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    THE PRINCESS AND THE PORN STAR was funny, sexy and surprisingly sweet. ~ Under the Covers

    There were two reasons why I chose to read this book, the first being that it’s written by Lauren Gallagher. I have been meaning to...

    ~Reviewed by ANN & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    THE PRINCESS AND THE PORN STAR was funny, sexy and surprisingly sweet. ~ Under the Covers

    There were two reasons why I chose to read this book, the first being that it’s written by Lauren Gallagher. I have been meaning to read a book by her for awhile. I am a huge fan of her work as L.A. Witt so I was already familiar with the quality of writing and the larger than life characters that Gallagher/Witt brings to each of her stories.

    The second reason I wanted to read this book was because of the title alone – THE PRINCESS AND THE PORN STAR. Now if you’ve read Gallagher before, then you know that her writing contains incredible fun, unique characters. I just knew that this book would be a laugh-out-loud riot and I was right!

    Rachel Taylor is an accomplished artist whose latest music video has her dancing up again Buck Harder, the hottest porn star she has come across. While this could be a recipe for disaster, it actually felt like a sweet romantic comedy. Rachel is the princess, but she is by no means egotistical or spoiled. She is so sweet and likeable that Gallagher managed to make me fall in love with her so very early on into the book. As she is struggling to walk in her sky-high heels, you definitely get the sense that despite her superstar status, Rachel is just a sweet girl at heart.

    Further assumptions are shattered when Buck Harder aka Lee turns out not to be a cocky, suave hero but a sweet, funny and down-to-earth guy. I LOVED Lee and found his and Rachel’s chemistry to be combustible. Gallagher spends a lot of time on conversation. Her dialogue between characters is so effortless and smooth, it feels so genuine between characters. From that, you definitely get a sense that Lee and Rachel are getting to know each other in a believable pace.

    Written in alternating POVs, Gallagher gives readers the best of both worlds. THE PRINCESS AND THE PORN STAR was funny, sexy and surprisingly sweet.

    *ARC provided by publisher

    (read full review)
  16. 6 hours ago | Comments (0) | Was this review helpful? Yes (0) | No (0)
  17. Under The Covers Book Blog

    Under The Covers Book Blog reviewed a book.

    Unleash: Vampire Erotic Theatre Romance Series (Volume 6)

    ~Reviewed by ANGELA & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    “Ms Heaton proves to be a wonderful storyteller with this last issue of VET. Not only that it was heart-warming, it was also hot as hell.” ~Under the Covers

    This sixth and last installment of Vampire Erotic Theater (VET)...

    ~Reviewed by ANGELA & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    “Ms Heaton proves to be a wonderful storyteller with this last issue of VET. Not only that it was heart-warming, it was also hot as hell.” ~Under the Covers

    This sixth and last installment of Vampire Erotic Theater (VET) lives up to all my expectations. I predicted Snow’s story to be EPIC and Ms Heaton wrote exactly that.

    I have had my eyes Snow from the very start, and since then, I have been his number one fan. As much as I’ve read about him, I knew he had a twisted and effed up past that had cost him to have a terrible blood lust. Now I know that it was an act of compassion that doomed him. This book tells us Snow’s nitty gritty past and reveal the heroine who will UNLEASH him to his salvation.

    Snow was very young when tragedy happened, and he’d lost his reason to live. Except his responsibility and love for his brother kept him alive. He has been to hell and back for him, literally. With his past, he’s never thought or want any happiness for himself. And now that his brother has found love, he yearns for what he’s missing. It’s hard for me to mention specifics in fear of giving spoilers. But I can tell you right now that his connection to this angel was a bit of a shock for me. If and when you read this book, you’ll see what I mean.

    Ms Heaton had picked the perfect heroine for Snow. I was afraid no heroine can ever be good enough for him but Aurora proved to be more than just any Angel. She had turned out to be an alpha female that would do anything for Snow no matter the cost. I actually love her as well. It was wonderful to see that the VET crew had truly made a family. Not just by blood but everyone at Vampirotique. I love seeing everyone protect each other, to death if need be. And the focus to help or save Snow was just heart warming.

    Ms Heaton proves to be a wonderful storyteller with this last issue of VET. Not only that it was heart-warming, it was also hot as hell. Wait until you see how Snow claims his mate. I am ecstatic that we finally get Snow’s book, but it also ends the series which I’m not happy about. Well done, Ms Heaton. I will look forward to your upcoming work. And maybe someday get a glimpse of Snow in your future novels.

    *ARC provided by author

    (read full review)
  18. 6 hours ago | Comments (0) | Was this review helpful? Yes (0) | No (0)
  19. Under The Covers Book Blog

    Under The Covers Book Blog reviewed a book.

    One Night with a Cowboy

    Reviewed by Guest Reviewer/Kim & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    “Cat Johnson is a goddess at writing sizzling sex scenes that make the heartbeat accelerate along with a great love story.” ~Under the Covers

    College Professor from New York, Becca Hart is not having a good...

    Reviewed by Guest Reviewer/Kim & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    “Cat Johnson is a goddess at writing sizzling sex scenes that make the heartbeat accelerate along with a great love story.” ~Under the Covers

    College Professor from New York, Becca Hart is not having a good day. All at once her life turns upside down between work and her personal life that all she would like to do is cry when she loses her job and her boyfriend. When her older sister, Emma suggests that she apply for a teaching position at OSU in Oklahoma Becca thinks Emma is off her rocker. What would a city girl do in Oklahoma? Unbeknownst to Becca, Emma sends in Becca’s resume to OSU and receives a phone call requesting an in person interview for an associate position. Well of course Becca can’t pass that up since she had not even reached that level at Vassar, so she and her sister, hop a plane and head to Oklahoma.

    Their first evening there, they attend the local rodeo where they are spotted by two handsome cowboys the minute they walk in. Bull rider, Tucker Jenkins has been without a woman for way too long. An Army Staff Sergeant, Tucker returns from a deployment to find his wife with another man. After a divorce, Tucker swears off relationships, but a hot fling with a gorgeous New Yorker might be just the thing he needs. So as the title suggests, Becca has her one night with her cowboy and does it turn out to be one sizzling trip between the sheets and then some, but Becca expects nothing more as she is returning to New York the next morning. Tucker admits to himself that he’s never had a night like that in his life, but in the morning when Becca walks out the door, he is sure whatever they shared was over.

    Weeks later after Becca has moved to Oklahoma, having accepted the position at OSU, she cannot get her mind off her cowboy. Guess what? Tucker has been having the same malady and when he appears at Becca’s welcome mixer on the OSU campus, Becca is shocked when she finds that her cowboy is also military and a coach at the University. When they both realize that spark is still there, they wonder if being friends with benefits is the route to take. Becca having just gotten out of her relationship in New York, and Tucker being divorced makes the two reticent to admit that they are indeed falling for one another. Will the country boy and the city girl come to terms with their feelings? Will all they ever be is friends between the sheets? Pick up Cat Johnson’s One Night With A Cowboy today to find out.

    I enjoyed this book so much. From the title, ONE NIGHT WITH A COWBOY, I expected it to be a straight forward Western Romance but quickly found out it is much more. Cat Johnson is a goddess at writing sizzling sex scenes that make the heartbeat accelerate along with a great love story. Her characters are real and have great senses of humor that make the reader want to come back for more. Now I only have to wait until September for the next installment of the Oklahoma Nights Series? UGH, I don’t think that’s going to be possible!

    *ARC provided by publisher

    (read full review)
  20. 6 hours ago | Comments (0) | Was this review helpful? Yes (0) | No (0)
  21. the golden witch.

    the golden witch. reviewed a book.

    Transparent

    I was really excited when the blurb for this book went up late last year - I love anything with the mafia in YA and of course, superheroes/X-Men sort of stories and it sounded like "Transparent" would definitely be the book for me. Sadly, there was so much that needed to be done, and at least...

    I was really excited when the blurb for this book went up late last year - I love anything with the mafia in YA and of course, superheroes/X-Men sort of stories and it sounded like "Transparent" would definitely be the book for me. Sadly, there was so much that needed to be done, and at least another two or three drafts written to smooth everything out even at the ARC stage of things that I just didn't enjoy it as much as I'd expected to. However, it's not without its fun bits, so I'd recommend it as a book you'd want on a rainy day, or something to read in about one sitting.

    My biggest issue with this book: the underdevelopment of nearly every technical aspect of this story. I don't mind having unlikeable characters in my books - if anything, I welcome the challenge to see how they make their transformation by the end of the story. But there was no real significant progress here for anyone, and it felt for long periods of time the story just didn't go anywhere. We waited and waited, but there was a lot of talking, and not a lot of action. I will give it to Whipple - she does know how to keep the pressure on the characters going with the threat of Daddy coming to bring everyone back to Vegas, but even there, I felt like the tension could have been ramped up more than just one scene with Graham flat-out abusing Fiona in front of his younger brother and mother. Which triggered me. But we won't go into that. Just a warning: those with a domestic violence or dub-con trigger? This may not be the book for you.

    The world - while interesting with the alternate universe retelling of what happened during/after the Cold War, and how it ended up in quite a few people having supernatural abilities, that too was underdeveloped. We only get a few sentences as a quick infodump at the beginning, but nothing more. I feel like Whipple could have woven more of the backstory of the world in throughout the story, and connected it a little more deeply with the characters. There is an attempt with this as to explaining how Fiona's invisibility worked, but it's rather poor in consistency and continuity. In David Levithan and Andrea Cremer's "Invisibility", we too have an MC that's been born invisible, but at least he has a vague idea of what his face is like once he's able to see it. Fiona doesn't. At all. Whatsoever - and this is surprising, because there are quite a few things seem to trigger "seeing" what Fiona may look like (water on her skin, or sunscreen), yet we don't really get to see her, and neither does she. Which was kind of ridiculous. There was so much telling over showing, I wanted to scream.

    The world badly needed more development in terms of the mutation backstory, and the YA contemp world of Arizona just kind of barely passed muster. Add to the characters, which were very flimsily constructed. I feel like Bea and her brothers were really just kind of propping up Fiona with her desire to be a normal girl and to fight off the terror of being brought back to Daddy - they didn't feel significantly developed, and they also have a one-sentence backstory as to why their family isn't working for her father's competition. Brady just kind of felt like an inserted love interest because he was attractive (thankfully, not exactly insta-love, but it got close). There was also a pseudo-kind-of-I-can't-really-decide-if-I-want-to-write-it love triangle going on between Fiona, Brady, and Seth - even now I'm still pretty confused as to how that made it into the book without further clarification by an editor.

    However, this book isn't without its fun moments - the superpowers in action themselves were really fun to watch (I think my favorite was the kid who literally smelled like crap when he got scared), and the first few opening chapters with Fiona and her mother on the job were quite exciting. But it needed a lot more showing in general, as the sensory language was barely there. But those fun moments? They were worth it.

    The triggers, though, were the ones that got me the most. Usually, dub-con (dubious consent) doesn't bother me much if it makes sense as to how the character who's giving their dubious consent actually works and functions as how they're constructed. But instead, this is explained away again with Fiona's father and his ability as a Charmer - basically, a male siren sans fins and stuff - convincing any woman he sees fit to do his dirty work. We're not even really sure if this is confined to women alone as it wasn't entirely explained. And then there's the domestic violence trigger - yes, we know Graham is a thug, and we know that Mom is still in PTSD mode from being with Fiona's father and being used and abused by him for years, but even Miles, who's resistant to Charm and escapes Graham's wrath, doesn't seem to say a thing when Graham goes and nearly kills Fiona for a very small thing. It was incredibly hard scene for me to read - and Whipple did that scene very well. If you're making me uncomfortable, you know the author is doing their job. But all the same, there needed to be more scenes full of tension like that one, just a little less triggery. More vividity, but less outright violence against women, please.

    Final verdict? As I absolutely love the premise, I'm giving it an extra star, but the execution was poor and really needed a few more drafts and more editing to make everything make more sense. However, that's just how I feel about it - along with the triggers, it just wasn't for me. "Transparent" is out now in North America, so be sure to check it out when you get the chance and come to your own conclusions about this story.

    (posted to goodreads, shelfari, and birthofanewwitch.wordpress.com)

    (read full review)
  22. 6 hours ago | Comments (0) | Was this review helpful? Yes (0) | No (0)
  23. Under The Covers Book Blog

    Under The Covers Book Blog reviewed a book.

    Naked

    3.5 Stars
    ~Reviewed by ANN & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    NAKED is very much about setting up the romance and having that questioned by the end. ~ Under the Covers

    It was the premise of this story that really made me want to read it. An American art student in...

    3.5 Stars
    ~Reviewed by ANN & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    NAKED is very much about setting up the romance and having that questioned by the end. ~ Under the Covers

    It was the premise of this story that really made me want to read it. An American art student in London. A successful businessman. See the picture coming together already? If you haven’t guessed it already, this series is along the same lines as 50 Shades and Crossfire. It’s been getting a lot of buzz lately so I wanted to try it out. I’m a sucker for tortured souls and I wanted to know what the story was behind Brynne Bennett and Ethan Blackstone.

    NAKED is a very fast read. It’s short and I blazed through it within an hour. That being said, the romance happens VERY fast. Ethan is a very compelling man and isn’t the type to take no for an answer. Brynne doesn’t push Ethan away either. She is intrigued by him and that fire burns brightly throughout the entire book. So while I can accept their attraction for one another, I did feel as if the “I love yous” came on really quickly.

    As I mentioned, I was eager to know more about their dark pasts and readers don’t really get that much details on what that is yet. NAKED is very much about setting up the romance and having that questioned by the end. There is a cliff hanger that made me swear and run to grab the next book in the series. The Blackstone Affair definitely feels more like a serial than a series because the books feel so short in comparison to others and the story continues right where the other left off. Therefore, I highly suggest you read the series in order.

    While I liked Ethan in this book, I felt a little different to Brynne’s character. I was waiting for the big reveal and the one we get in the end, I could see a mile coming but was not what I was looking for to understand Brynne a little better. I’m hoping that the next book, written from Ethan’s POV gives greater insight into the characters and their problems.

    *ARC provided by Netgalley

    (read full review)
  24. 6 hours ago | Comments (0) | Was this review helpful? Yes (0) | No (0)
  25. Under The Covers Book Blog

    Under The Covers Book Blog reviewed a book.

    Hold Me Down Hard

    4.5 Stars
    ~Reviewed by FRANCESCA & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    “HOLD ME DOWN HARD is a quick and extremely hot ride, that might cause whimpering and hot flashes. Be warned to try and not read it in public.” ~Under the Covers

    Eden is a farm girl who has moved to NY...

    4.5 Stars
    ~Reviewed by FRANCESCA & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    “HOLD ME DOWN HARD is a quick and extremely hot ride, that might cause whimpering and hot flashes. Be warned to try and not read it in public.” ~Under the Covers

    Eden is a farm girl who has moved to NY to follow her dream of becoming an actress. She’s been doing well at that, has a set of friends and her life is on track. Except she has the biggest crush on her sexy next door neighbor, Jay. Jay is a cop, all rough and rugged, and only sees her as a friend. Or so she thinks.

    He usually rehearses scenes with her and her friends give her the bright idea to write her own script for him to rehearse with her and see what happens. And suddenly sweet, innocent Eden is not so sweet anymore.

    Normally I don’t like the premise of the hero thinking that he’s doing what’s best for the heroine by staying away because she couldn’t handle his lifestyle. But for the 50 some pages it took for me to read this story, I didn’t care. It was done so perfectly!

    Eden took charge of the situation and kept pushing all of Jay’s buttons to the point that he couldn’t resist anymore. And then things went lava temperature hot.

    But hotness factor aside, and you should read this if you are looking for that, this was also a story of two people who had grown into good friends. Almost always a step in the right direction for me with short stories. I was not a fan of Jay thinking that if he got in a relationship with sweet little Eden she would want him to get a desk job and he couldn’t handle that. Assumptions. HATE THEM!

    HOLD ME DOWN HARD is a quick and extremely hot ride, that might cause whimpering and hot flashes. Be warned to try and not read it in public.

    *ARC provided by publisher

    (read full review)
  26. 6 hours ago | Comments (0) | Was this review helpful? Yes (1) | No (0)
  27. Under The Covers Book Blog

    Under The Covers Book Blog reviewed a book.

    Rocky Mountain Rebel

    4.5 Stars
    ~Reviewed by FRANCESCA & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    “Every time I read one of these books, I actually don’t read….I devour.” ~Under the Covers

    Every time I read one of these books, I actually don’t read….I devour. The Six Pack Ranch is sweet and sexy and...

    4.5 Stars
    ~Reviewed by FRANCESCA & posted at Under the Covers Book Blog

    “Every time I read one of these books, I actually don’t read….I devour.” ~Under the Covers

    Every time I read one of these books, I actually don’t read….I devour. The Six Pack Ranch is sweet and sexy and it has quickly become one of my favorite cowboy series! I love it more and more with every book and glimpse of this big family.

    Joel is one of the twins. Yes, those twins. The bad boys, womanizers who liked to share. But Joel wants more out of life and wants to break of that reputation and lifestyle. Vicki is not exactly the right way to do it. She’s one of the Hansol girls and they have a reputation for being easy.

    Vicki is not like her sisters, but she’s spunky and a bit wild. She’s lived with the shadow of her family’s reputation for too long and now just wants out of the area. But to do that she may need to get over her fear of horses.

    She enlists Joel’s help with that and while they make the rules of that arrangement they decide to pretend to be a couple. See Vicki is a virgin and wants to get rid of that while experiencing some passion she’s never had. Joel wants to show the town he can go steady with one girl without his brother.

    I wasn’t too crazy about the repeat theme of the pretend girlfriend but Ms. Arend made it work in a completely different way. These two went into knowing they would end up in bed together but took their time getting there. They got to know each other and clicked right away.

    It was sweet and believable to see them falling in love. I might’ve fallen in love with Joel a bit myself. But I also loved Vicki. She’s strong and determined and not afraid to say what she means and go for what she wants.

    Another superb winner from Ms. Arend that left me sighing from happiness and anxious for more!

    *ARC provided by publisher

    (read full review)
  28. 6 hours ago | Comments (0) | Was this review helpful? Yes (0) | No (0)
  29. Wolf-Hawk Writing
    Kaylyn Marie

    I live in Barberton OhioI'm a sophmore at Barberton High SchoolI LOVE to readDon't be afraid to ask me questions...White man once said, Colored people are not allowed here. The black man turned around and stood up. He then said: Listen sir... when I was born I was BLACK. When I grew up I was...

  30. 6 hours ago | Comments (0) | (0 Likes)
  31. Marcella-Louise
    Iced

    • Rated 4 stars

  32. 7 hours ago | Comments (0) | (0 Likes)
  33. Jennifer

    Jennifer is now reading a book. (see 4 more books added to shelf)

  34. 9 hours ago | Comments (0) | (0 Likes)
  35. Marcella-Louise

    Marcella-Louise is now reading a book.

  36. 10 hours ago | Comments (0) | (0 Likes)
  37. Anna N.~Where There Is Desire There Is Gonna Be A Flame
    Dragon's Milk

    3.5


  38. 11 hours ago | Comments (0) | Was this review helpful? Yes (0) | No (0)
  39. Anna N.~Where There Is Desire There Is Gonna Be A Flame
  40. 11 hours ago | Comments (0) | (0 Likes)
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