Review: Untamed by SC Stephens

Credit: Goodreads

5 Stars

The spotlight doesn't only shine. Sometimes, it burns.

Being the bad-boy bassist for the world's hottest band has earned Griffin Hancock some perks: a big house, a fast car, and most importantly his incredible wife, Anna. The one thing it hasn't brought him is the spotlight. Anna tells him to be patient, that his talent will win out. But Griffin is through waiting for permission to shine.

Without warning, Griffin makes a shocking decision and takes the gamble of a lifetime. Suddenly he's caught up in a new level of lights, cameras, and chaos. One that pushes his relationship with Anna to its limits. Anna has always found his unpredictable behavior sexy, but lately he's seen an ache in her eyes--and it has his soul in knots. Just as the recognition Griffin seeks is finally within reach, the thing he loves most in life could be slipping through his fingers . . .


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My thoughts; First off I want to start by saying, this is a favored series for me. I always, always recommend it. It is solid five stars for me from beginning to end. If you have yet to read it get ready for a roller coaster ride. Angst and drama are just the tip of the ice burg. Even when you absolutely hate everything that is happening you still can't put it down.

This book was no exception. For those who know this series and its characters, you know the mess that is Griffin Hancock. I have always loved his character in a, well aren't you "special" kind of way. He is an egotistical, narcissistic, well ... Douchebag. I spent the beginning of this book rolling my eyes so hard, seriously, I think I pulled something. Griffin is like a toddler that throws a tantrum because he doesn't get the toy he wants. I wanted to throttle him through probably 70% of this book. He is literally like that person who you just look at and think, "his mouth isn't attached to a brain, is it?" How can someone be so completely oblivious? Being inside his head was possibly the most frustrating thing I have ever done. At first, it was funny and then it just wasn't anymore.

But then something miraculous happens...

Griffin became an adult! And I fell in love with his character in a completely different way. I began to see him in a completely different way. And I ended this book thoroughly satisfied.



This would be the part where Griffin would say something way inappropriate. *wink*

Previous books in this series...

  

PLR's Favorite Author: JR Ward (Books plus Reading Order)

JR Ward 

Photo Credit: Goodreads

About this author 

J.R. Ward is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of numerous novels, including the Black Dagger Brotherhood series. She lives in the South her family.

We have not reviewed all of her books here at PLR. However, for the ones that we have reviewed I will add a link. ~S

Black Dagger Brotherhood Series (Ongoing Series)

1. Dark Lover
2. Lover Eternal
3. Lover Awakened
4. Lover Revealed
5. Lover Unbound
6. Lover Enshrined
7. Insider's Guide (This book focuses on the previous 6 books in the series)
8. Lover Avenged
9. Lover MINE
10. Lover Unleashed
11. Lover Reborn
12. Lover at Last
13. The King
14. The Shadows
15. The Beast

Novellas

1. Story of Son
2. Father Mine (BDB 6.5) 

BDB Legacy Series (Ongoing Series)

1. Blood Kiss (Click HERE to read our review)

Fallen Angel Series (Complete Series)

1. Covet
2. Crave
3. Envy
4. Rapture
5. Possession
6. Immortal

The Bourbon Kings Series (Ongoing Series)

1. The Bourbon Kings (Click HERE to read our review)
2. Angel's Share

Writing as Jessica Bird

Standalone Novels

1. Leaping Hearts
2. Heart of Gold
3. The Billionaire Next Door (The O'Banyon Brothers)

An Unforgettable Lady Series (Complete Series)

1. An Unforgettable Lady
2. An Irresistible Bachelor

The Moorehouse Legacy Series (Complete Series)

1. The Rebel (Originally published as Beauty and the Black Sheep)
2. The Player (Originally published as His Comfort and Joy)
3. The Renegade (Originally published as From the First)
4. The Rouge (Originally published as A Man in a Million)

Review: That One Night by Josie Wright

We do not normally do review requests here at PLR. They can become overwhelming and it gets really hard to say no to one, while accepting another. But every so often I get an email with a book that peaks my interest and I can't help but accept. This is one of those books. So on that note.....

**This book was sent to me by the author for an honest review**

This is Josie Wright's Debut Novel

Photo Credit: Goodreads

3-4 Stars

All it takes is just one moment to change the course of your life. For me, it was one perfect night.
I have always had a thing for my brother’s best friend, Ben. When I found him on my parents’ couch, drowning his sorrows in a whiskey bottle, my attempts to comfort him quickly turned into a night of raw and intense passion.
My foolish heart hoped he might feel the same way I do.
But Ben wasn’t there to stay and I woke up the next morning alone with a broken heart.
I attempted to forget the guy with a smile to die for and a touch that sets me on fire.
I thought I was over him.
I thought he was gone forever.
Until, eighteen months later Ben returns and learns my secret. Now, he is hell-bent on winning me back.
He plays dirty.
And he won’t stop until he gets what he wants—me.

But he has secrets of his own.
Secrets that could destroy everything we might have and everything we are.

Not suitable for under 18's due to strong language, violence and sexual content

*This book is an interconnected standalone and first in the series.

approx. 86,000 words 

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   My Thoughts; Don't let my Star Rating confuse you. This was an excellent story and I am happy that I chose to read it, I just had a few hang ups along the way. I will get to those later. First, let me tell you a bit about the story.

   It was not a challenge at all to get into this book. I was pretty much invested before I finished the first chapter. I want say that I was not shocked at any point in the book. The storyline was straight forward and as the book moved along I could see where it was going from one point to the next. I loved that this story is not just a love story between a man and a woman but also about parents falling in love with their child and learning to become a family. And in my opinion that is the greatest love story of all.

   It was also refreshing to see two adults acting like adults. Actually working through the issues that arise between them. I read a lot of books where I just think to myself. "Do these people even communicate with each other.... at all?" I just want to reach into the pages and choke some sense into them. WAKE PEOPLE! That was not the case in this book. Yes, each character has some serious issues to work through. Yes, it does cause conflict along the way. But they handle themselves the way two adults who have someone else who depends on them should act. Overall, the story rates at 4 Stars and I look forward to the next couple in this series..... which I am also pretty sure I have figured out. The author did a great job of setting it up for the sequel without it overwhelming the story at hand.

   The only real issue I had with this book was the editing. It wasn't so bad that it made it difficult to read, but there were a few of typos along the way. I have had numerous emails with this author since reading and she is having her proofreaders go over it once more. I have to say that she is a very pleasant individual and I can see her going far. I think authors need to maintain that level of professionalism. This is a tough industry, everyone is a critic and not everyone is kind. And I say that as someone who has had their critique spit back in their face. I look forward to reading more of Josie Wright's work in the future and I wish her all the luck in the world with her debut.

   I want to mention one more thing, this is not a critique per se, but more of something I do on all books with warning labels. Lets call it a 'readers view'. In a day where everyone is offended by everything, I understand the need for these types of "labels" so I just like to give my opinion on them from a reader's perspective.

   While this book is intended for mature audiences it is in no way erotica. There are several racy sex scenes but that is to be expected in a romance novel, no? I am not a huge "erotic" novel reader so I may have skipped the book based on the author warning. But trust me when I say you will get plenty of well developed STORY in this book.

   Ben and Frankie are a beautiful couple and it was extremely easy to fall in love with them. And I look forward to seeing where the rest of the characters we met in That One Night go from here as well.




Happy Reading

~S

Guest Review: Grey by EL James

   Hi everyone! I want to welcome my good friend Janne to PLR today. She has been kind enough to share her review of Grey by EL James with us. Janne and I have been friends for a couple of years now and she is always recommending some pretty awesome books. I also have to give her credit for sparking my interest in Audio books. I never gave them a second thought until she recomended some really great ones to me. While I do still prefer the print version I have found myself diving into Audible more and more frequently. As you will see when you read the following review, Janne listened to the audible version of Grey, narrated by Zachary Webber. And let me just second her opinion on his narrative voice. Please enjoy her review and if you would like to follow more of Janne's reviews you can find her on Goodreads >>> Click Here

 Grey by E.L. James

Audio by Zachary Webber

                                                                 

Photo Credit: Goodreads

 3 - 4.5 Stars (read on)

See the world of Fifty Shades of Grey anew through the eyes of Christian Grey.

In Christian's own words, and through his thoughts, reflections, and dreams, E L James offers a fresh perspective on the love story that has enthralled millions of readers around the world.

Christian Grey exercises control in all things; his world is neat, disciplined, and utterly empty—until the day that Anastasia Steele falls into his office, in a tangle of shapely limbs and tumbling brown hair. He tries to forget her, but instead is swept up in a storm of emotion he cannot comprehend and cannot resist. Unlike any woman he has known before, shy, unworldly Ana seems to see right through him—past the business prodigy and the penthouse lifestyle to Christian’s cold, wounded heart.

Will being with Ana dispel the horrors of his childhood that haunt Christian every night? Or will his dark sexual desires, his compulsion to control, and the self-loathing that fills his soul drive this girl away and destroy the fragile hope she offers him?


This book is intended for mature audiences.

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   Janne's Thoughts; OK folks, if you are one of the 4 people left on earth who has not read the Fifty Shades of Grey trilogy or seen the movie; there will be spoilers in this review of Grey, EL James’ recent surprise release of the story from Christian’s Point of View. Whether you loved the books or hated them, you have to admit, they certainly have a following. And, I’m one of them. Sure it’s erotic and that’s where people get stuck and, often, upset. It’s the STORY of Christian and Anastasia that is the kick in the gut and so often overlooked. So when Ms. James announced the release of Grey, it was with great trepidation that I pre-ordered it. BUT, when it was then announced that Zachary Webber would be the narrator of the audio, the deal was sealed. I canceled my Kindle pre-order and signed on for the audio.

In my opinion, Zachary Webber is one of the best audio performers out there and I have said many a time that he could read the instructions on how to give an enema and make them sound awesome.

   It is not a surprise that Ms. James is not a writer of ‘seri-ass’ literature and, along those lines, Grey does not disappoint.  Grey alternates between very good and very ‘not so good’. I mean REALLY ‘not so good’. AND, though I did not see the movie, I kept seeing Jamie Dornan and Dakota Johnson as Christian and Anastasia instead of my own images. And frankly, I preferred my own images.

   The audio is unabridged, as most are, and lasts for 18 hours and 46 minutes. If any of you have read reviews I have written, you will know that I am a visceral reader and reviewer. You will not see quotes and descriptions of scenes. What you will get is the reaction of my heart, soul, gut and spirit. So, here you go…here are my ‘not so good’ comments on Grey:

• At least 50%, if not more, of that time is a re-hashing of the first book (Fifty Shades of Grey) as told by Christian. There is nothing new except that instead of Ana’s ‘goddesses talking to her’, it’s Christian’s boy part leading him onward and upward. I kept thinking “come ON, get to some substance about Christian!”
• There is little new information about who Christian really is other than some infrequent flashbacks of a brutal childhood. In fact, that’s how the book starts and it’s not that impressive;
• The e-mail relationship that was so FUN in the first book (and second) is NOT so fun in Grey because it’s the same. It’s like a redundancy overload AND when it’s being read, gets mighty old.
• One pet peeve in the first book and continued in Grey—when Anastasia went to Savannah GA to see her mother, it was in June which meant that the time was Eastern DAYLIGHT time and not Eastern Standard Time. I would have thought editors would catch this at least for Grey.
The ‘very good’ comments:
• OK—this book cranks up with the ‘soaring’ adventure in Savannah.  There is the beginning of Christian’s desire to meet Ana’s request for ‘more’ as his thoughts become more and more focused on her and his growing enchantment with her. Sure, he’s still pretty focused on ‘having her’ but vanilla is not so bad;
• Starting with the Leila issue, the book really picks up some steam and we start getting more glimpses of Christian’s psyche and his inner turmoil.
• And, finally, with the epic scene where she challenges him to punish her and ultimately leaves him, we REALLY get going. Christian’s nightmares, consisting again of flashbacks of his wretched childhood, intensify and are detailed. This is good stuff because all we knew in the ‘Ana’ version was that he had them.

   Personal reflection on how this book could have been SO much better:
Christian Grey is an interesting, complex and substantive man.  It therefore stands to reason that a book from his point of view would absolutely go to town on WHO HE IS, HOW HE GOT TO BE WHO HE IS and HOW HE THINKS.  There is so much of him that could be explored:

• Christian’s  early years and the impact/damage it did to him. We do get a bit more of that toward the end of Grey but this could have been developed much earlier in the book and more thoroughly;
• Christians’ relationship with Elena which was barely touched on in Grey (how did she find him, how did she seduce him...hell, a snippet of how he lost HIS virginity and how she snared him into the BDSM lifestyle, how did HE act as a submissive and so on);
• Christian’s emotional volatility was barely explored yet all through the first Fifty, he was all over the emotional map. In Grey, he comes across as uneven but not the emotional roller coaster we’ve come to know
• Christian’s internal demons roared to life when Ana left him after telling him she was in love with him. Holy crap…that’s the core struggle he has and we needed to see that build from the moment Ana fell into his office and not at the end of the book. Why does he loathe himself so, why does he feel like he’s a monster, how did the relationship with Mrs. Robinson play into his psyche? There are some lovely moments with Dr. Flynn as Grey draws to a close and I am looking forward to the Grey’s POV from Fifty Shades Darker.   It’s obvious that Ms. James did a ton of research into flying/soaring, music, and the BDSM lifestyle to add credence to the book…so I’m imploring that the same effort will be focused on giving us complex Christian.
I guess I’m just asking for MORE.

My Many Many Thanks once again to Janne for sharing her review with us! You are wlcome back any time.

~S 

Review: Fifty Shades of Grey (MOVIE)

WARNING....... This review will contain minor spoilers. If you have not read the books, you may want to avoid. If you have read the book(s) you already know what happens ;)

I am not a movie reviewer so this is more of a comparative review on book vs movie. Just bare with me while I ramble for a bit.

Let me start by saying a few words about the book/series. I read this book before it was picked up for publishing, before the hype, and before it was plastered all over every single media outlet known to man. 

I was reluctant, at first, to read the series because of the fanfic aspect but I finally gave in and read. I was pleasantly surprised. I had and still have parts about the book(s) that rub me the wrong way. But as an overall story, I truly enjoyed it. I will be the first to admit that they weren't exceptionally well written. That it will never go down in history as a great work in literature. However, when you look past all of that, it has a beautiful story deep within the pages. 

A man (Christian) who is deeply 'disturbed' on an emotional level. He was, clearly, sexually abused as a teenager and that is what pushed him into his choice of "lifestyle". This person, an authority figure who should have been a positive influence, used him for her own sadistic pleasure. 

Now before people get in an uproar, I am not putting down or belittling the BDSM lifestyle in any way. I am a firm believer that what you do in the privacy of your home and/or bedroom is your own business.... as long as it is between two consenting adults.

Christian was a troubled child and he needed people in his life who were understanding of that. Not someone who took advantage of his innocence. She was nothing more than a pedophile. I will hold that opinion for eternity, the end. 

 Ana is a different thing all together. I had mixed feelings about her. She was weak, she was strong willed, she was naive she was not. She was desperate and panting but she also had balls at times. She above all was exactly what she needed to be for HIM. She loves him despite his obvious internal issues and becomes the only person he allows in enough to actually help him work through them. 

I do not now, nor have I ever felt that Christian needed to be "cured" of anything. I do, however, feel like he needed to learn where the line between using BDSM as his way of coping with his issues and actually having that as a pleasure outlet in his life.

I wanna take a second to touch on the media hype. I, personally, rolled my eyes every time I heard the words 'book porn' or 'Mommy porn'.

1. Book Porn...I have read some books that are LOADS more 'erotic' than this. So what...women read books with sex in them. BFD. Get over it already. How many years have men been reading the articles in Playboy?? Enough said
2. Mommy Porn... Ok seriously people?? Mommy porn? Let me tell you what Mommy porn looks like. It looks like her husband doing the dishes for a change. Or even making dinner. Or.... good god someone grab me a cold shower.... laundry. Those things equate to Mommy porn.

And now... the movie.

I will not sing the praises of the actors or the script but I am going to say that I feel they played the parts the best they could be played under the circumstances. Part of me feels like this movie was doomed from the start. It has been talked about to the point of being annoying. People (namely ME) who were once excited at the prospect of this becoming a movie became disgusted with the media hype. 

Dakota Johnson plays a pretty good Ana. Even though the breathless gaspy way she spoke throughout the movie was a little over done. Yes, it captured the book character, but it was also a bit much. However, I did like her a lot. She made me laugh several times and I think she portrayed a lot of the emotions to a T. And mad props to the girl... I mean she had to be naked thru a huge part of the movie. ^5 for having the guts to do it.

Jamie Dornan is not my vision of Christian Grey. I had to seriously give myself a pep talk before going in (Don't dislike him just on principle). Now that I have seen the movie I can give him a little credit. He did pretty good. Did he capture Christian? I don't know. I feel like maybe we all have our own version of him in our minds already so maybe he did for some, but for me he was lacking a little. He didn't suck. And I will give him this, the man was wearing the hell out of  those low slung jeans. He played up the sex scenes fairly well. The fact that Christian hates to be touched was clearly portrayed. He was able to play the lighter side of CG way better than the hard side. But, again, he didn't suck.

****Side note -- When he says Laters Baby, it just sounds dumb. I am sorry, that is blunt but its my truth. 

The story was the part(s) I had the most trouble with. I feel like the sexual aspect of the book was focused on more than the actual storyline. There were several things cut out of the "story" that could have been added and there were sex scenes that could have been left out. If you are planning to see it strictly for the sex scenes, you will not be disappointed. While they were very steamy as well as racy, they were also tastefully done.

I loved the fact that they played into Ana 'topping' him. While Christian is clearly the dominate, we book lovers know different. Ana is in control more often than not, and this did come across several times throughout the movie. 

Overall, I will give this movie a 3 out of 5 Stars. I would watch it again once it releases on DVD and I will probably even buy it to have with my books. 

Bottom line, I didn't hate it, but I also didn't love it. So there it is. I even sorta feel like it may have been more successful as a cable series, maybe that way they could have put in the sex that they feel like everyone wants as well as the storyline that we actually wanted most. If you have seen it, tell me how you felt about it.

~S

SHOUT OUT to the guy sitting adjacent to us that slept (complete with snoring) through the entire movie. Happy Valentine's Day to his date. 

DOUBLE SHOUT OUT to the little lady (who we nicknamed Grandma, she was easily in her 80's) a few rows in front of us who laughed out loud at all the most "awkward" moments. High Five grandma!! 

And to the guy that directly in front of us who said, "Did I really just pay money to watch this?" after his girlfriend was clearly upset about the cliffhanger ending. She didn't need your snide commentary so SHHH. But I guess we know what you aren't getting for Valentine's Day, hmmm.

Review: Love, in English by Karina Halle

Photo Credit: Goodreads

3 Stars

He’s thirty-eight. I’m twenty-three.

He speaks Spanish. I speak English.

He lives in Spain. I live in Canada.

He dresses in thousand-dollar suits. I’m covered in tattoos.

He’s married and has a five-year old daughter.

I’m single and can’t commit to anyone or anything.

Until now. Because when they say you can’t choose who you fall in love with, boy ain’t that the f*#king truth.

***

To a restless dreamer like Vera Miles, it sounded like the experience of a lifetime. Instead of spending her summer interning for her astronomy major, she would fly to Spain where she’d spend a few weeks teaching conversational English to businessmen and women, all while enjoying free room and board at an isolated resort. But while Vera expected to get a tan, meet new people and stuff herself with wine and paella, she never expected to fall in love.

Mateo Casalles is unlike anyone Vera has ever known, let alone anyone she’s usually attracted to. While Vera is a pierced and tatted free spirit with a love for music and freedom, Mateo is a successful businessman from Madrid, all sharp suits and cocky Latino charm. Yet, as the weeks go on, the two grow increasingly close and their relationship changes from purely platonic to something…more.

Something that makes Vera feel alive for the first time.

Something that can never, ever be.

Or so she thinks.

Buy NOW on Amazon

   My thoughts; When this book first released there was so much exposure. It seemed everyone on Facebook was reading it. All the bloggers were talking about it. Rave reviews were being thrown out left and right. I have to admit that I was very curious to see what all the fuss was about. However, I decided to wait until the new release trend was over before I picked it up to read. 

   Now before I start giving my thoughts on this book, I know you have seen the Star Rating I have attached and assume it wasn't a good book. That is not the case. I am a fan of this author, I have read many of her books and loved them. As a blogger I decided long ago to judge a book based on it's content, not its author. I have found myself, over the past few years, using facebook as a way of finding new books and authors. It is an amazing platform and I have met many fellow readers who share my tastes in storylines and always give me new recs when I am lost in a sea of new releases. I have also found several friends whose tastes vary from mine but they will recommend books that they know may push the boundaries of my comfort zone. Sometimes they get to say, "I told you so". And other times I have to file the book away in my, maybe I will try again another day pile. 

  I know I am getting off track so let me bring this back to my point. Facebook is an awesome atmosphere to meet fellow readers and to keep up with what is trending in the book world. However, Facebook is also full to the brim with street teams who work night and day promoting their authors. When I decided to start blogging I made the decision that no matter what the general consensus may be that I, myself, would always be open and honest about my feelings on a book. which leads me to my thoughts on, Love, in English.

   I felt that this book was very well written. You can tell the author had a clear picture of how she wanted to present the story and I believe she did it well. That being said it was the storyline in and of itself that I had the hardest time with. The understanding that you can't help who you fall in love with is clear, and I believe this is the truth. However, how you chose to handle things at that point are completely and totally within your power. 

   Vera and Mateo allowed things to cross the line between emotional and physical. This was within their power. I respect the remorse that Vera felt after the fact, knowing that she may have allowed things to go to far.

  I had an extremely hard time with the fact that it seemed everyone around her was so blase about Mateo's marriage. Like they seemed to be ushering her into a relationship with someone who is clearly unavailable.

  Now, lets talk about Mateo. I did develop a fondness for his character over time but for he most part I disliked him. I found him to be selfish with Vera. He seemed to only consider HIS side of things. Like his sacrifices were more important than hers. He even at one point says this to her, in not so many words. 

  Even though in the end the story ends on a positive note, I just could not get past all of the negative feelings I had while reading it. It took me some time to finish this book, which is unusual for me, but I refused to give up on it. This is definitely a book that pushed my boundaries. I don't know how I would go about making a rec for this book, what type of person might enjoy it, but the advice I can give is this; If you read the synopsis for this book and aren't immediately intrigued by the concept of an "affair" type relationship, you may want to save it for a rainy day.



~S

Review: One Night Promised by Jodi Ellen Malpas

4 Stars
Livy notices him the moment he walks into the coffee shop. He's heart-stoppingly stunning, with a blue-eyed gaze so piercing she's almost too distracted to take his order. When he walks out the door, she thinks she'll never see him again. Then she finds the note he left on his napkin . . . signed M.

All he wants is one night to worship her. No feelings, no commitment - nothing but pleasure. Every defense mechanism Livy has adopted during her solitary life is at risk of being obliterated by this confounding man. He's obnoxious but well-mannered. He's a gentleman but aloof. He's passionate but emotionless. Yet the fascination is so powerful, Livy can't deny him...or herself.

M awakens something in Livy, something deep and addicting that she never knew existed-and that she fears only he can satisfy. But she senses that behind the fast cars, fancy suits, and posh apartment, he's aching inside.

To have him, body and soul, she'll have to brave his dark secrets. Delving into his world and breaking down his defenses becomes her obsession - an obsession that could shatter her heart beyond repair...

Buy now on Amazon




  My thoughts; I bought One Night Promised the day it released back in July. It has sat on my kindle up until now, I can't really explain why other than simply.... Jesse Ward.
  I picked up This Man (book one This Man Trilogy) in November of 2012, it was just a few months prior to the release of book two and I was insanely glad I found the series a little later. My wait for book two was not so long, but still, I could not stop obsessing.

  My point? Well, I have this deep seated love for Jesse Ward, he trampled his way to the top of my Book Boyfriend list, and he has held the position quite strongly. Oh, there are contenders, believe me, but still he can not be budged. An that leads me directly into my point...

  Having fallen so hard for This Man, I was scared to read One Night. Any true bookie will understand this. You read something that leaves you reeling and begging for more but when the author writes something new you are terrified it will not stand up to the book(s) that made you fall in love with their writing to begin with. And lets face it, if we are honest, it happens.... a lot. So, there I was, on release day, 1-Clicking the book and then staring at it on my kindle. Terrified to read it.
  A few nights ago I was looking through my unread books and said to myself "Suck it up!". I generally listen when I talk to myself so I decided to go for it, book two is days away and I figure I might as well not break the tradition of reading a JEM book just prior to the sequel release.

  It did begin slowly for me, the lead up and meeting the characters etc. But then M strolls in and I began to see the storyline pick up. At one point I wanted to tell Livy to hold her knickers because it almost felt TOO fast. You just met him, you aren't in love yet. And I was right, I could see it was just an infatuation and I began to settle into the story.

  I became quite infatuated myself, Miller is hard to take in the beginning, he is cold and distant and almost rude. If I am honest I didn't like him at all. But, as his character starts to reveal itself and we get little tidbits along the way I really began to love him. It was at that point that my frustrations turn to Livy. It was almost like a role reversal, he became the one I was championing while I was giving her the side-eye.
  I really like her character and she seems strong, until she isn't. She seems understanding, until she isn't. She seems loving and warm, until she just isn't. She crosses a line for me and I wanted to yell obscenities at her. And, had my husband not been lying beside me sleeping as I read, I would have.
  Livy's hypocrite level hit defcon 5 and I was pissed. I know in the end she was lashing out her own insecurities onto him. Projecting a bit of self hate, maybe. She felt betrayed and I understand that, but the way she handles things are just unacceptable. I had an inner monologue just yelling every chastising thing I could think of, but in the end the only thing I wanted to say was, "You march yourself back in there and apologize.... a LOT. And dammit give him his thing!" But what I got was the end of the book instead.

  It was at that moment that I realized that JEM had done it to me again. I am totally smitten with this story and I can not wait until book two One Night Denied releases November 11. I don't know what I was so worried about  (^_^).


~S 

 

Review: RELLIK by Teresa Mummert

4 Stars

Rellik Bentley is to die for. 

He can have any woman he wants and they will do anything to be with him. He uses and abuses them like drugs and tosses them out with the trash. The only thing he gives a f*ck about is his music. That is, until Ella Leighton walks into his life and stumbles upon one of his darkest secrets. In the midst of doing damage control, he begins to obsess over the mysterious woman who wants absolutely nothing to do with him.
Rellik won’t take no for an answer.


 Publication Date: October 28, 2014

Buy now on Amazon

  My thoughts; I know the old saying about books and judging covers and all that but, ummm, do you see this cover?? How can I not. Honestly, I have wanted to read this book since before it was fully written... all because of the cover. I pre-ordered it back in January, I was not playing around.

   I could tell by the synopsis that Rellik was not exactly a good guy. But Teresa "Queen of the Plot Twist" Mummert, has shocked me more than once. I am no stranger to her work so I know that just when I think things are one way, it may just turn out to be another.

    I wanted Rellik to be this misunderstood guy who was really just hiding all his pain under this facade of bad boy. And well......

   Ok, you all know me better than that. If you have ever read a single review I have written you know I am not going to give up a spoiler. I will say this, Rellik is not who he appears to be but neither is Ella. They both have secrets to hide. Rellik is not a sweet Happily ever After kind of story. It is dark and twisted and I loved every minute of it.

Just because I have to be fair and honest I will add a couple of things that were dislikes.

   There were a couple of spots in the book where I had to go back a paragraph or two because I had a "Wait what just happened" moment. Almost as if the transition between one event and the next were blurred but it does not detract from the storyline at all.

   The other thing that bothered me was that this book ends at 88%. However, there are two chapter from another book by Teresa Mummert (Pretty Little Things) to fill in the space. I am not sure if there is a note somewhere that says the book ends early and has bonus chapters from another book or not. If it does I missed it.

   All in all this was a really great and quick read (I read in a single day). I would recommend it to anyone who likes a dark twisted romance, with a possible anti-hero. 

~S

Review: Taint by SL Jennings

5 Stars

Right now, you’re probably asking yourself two things: 

Who am I? 

And, what the hell are you doing here? 

Let’s start with the most obvious question, shall we? 

You’re here, ladies, because you can’t f*ck. 

Oh, stop it. Don’t cringe. No one under the age of 80 clutches their pearls. 

You might as well get used to it, because for the next six weeks, you’re going to hear that word a lot. And you’re going to say it a lot. 

Go ahead, try it out on your tongue. F*ck. F***ck. 

Ok, good. Now where were we? 

If you enrolled yourself in this program then you are wholly aware that you’re a lousy lay. Good for you. Admitting it is half the battle. 

For those of you that have been sent here by your husband or significant other, dry your tears and get over it. You’ve been given a gift, ladies. The gift of mind-blowing, wall-climbing, multiple-orgasm-inducing sex. You have the opportunity to f*ck like a porn star. And I guarantee, you will when I’m done with you. 

And who am I? 

Well, for the next six weeks, I will be your lover, your teacher, your best friend, and your worst enemy. Your every-f*cking-thing. I’m the one who is going to save your relationship and your sex life. 

I am Justice Drake. 

And I turn housewives into whores. 

Now…who’s first? 

BUY NOW on Amazon

My thoughts: I read the synopsis during the cover reveal for this book. I was instantly intrigued and knew I was going to be reading it ASAP. 

My first thoughts before reading were, this is either going to be the cheesiest book I have ever read or one of the steamiest. My expectations were pretty high. On release day, I posted in my online book group so I could get a group read going. Several ladies joined in and the general consensus was.....WOW!

This book not only met my expectations, it surpassed them. It was neither the cheesiest book I have ever read or the steamiest. What it was was completely unexpected. Based on the synopsis I assumed I was going to get a pretty erotic novel with a man whore and his merry band of desperate housewives. But what I got was so much more. I don't want to go into detail too much so I will give you this..... 

Is there cheese? Definitely, but it is totally the good kind 

Is there steam?  Justice Drake enough said

Desperate housewives? Of course 

Angst? Yep

Heartbreak? Yes

Happy ending? Mmmm Hmmm

There is even lobster, but you have to read to understand that one. *wink*

Over all this has been one of my favorite reads this year. I am so glad I happened across it on facebook. If I have to make one complaint it would be this (also the biggest complaint with book group). The ending..... it just came to soon. It was just to quick, I wish there had been a bit more to that last part than there was. But it did not detract from the overall book, so it is really a minor complaint. Although, if the author were to write more I would gobble it up without a second thought. *hint hint*

Author Spotlight: Jo-Anna Walker

The Admins at Pretty Little Readers would like to welcome Jo-Anna Walker to the page today! We look forward to introducing her to you all, as well as getting to know her a little better ourselves. We will also be posting throughout the day on our Facebook page so be sure to check it out but clicking the tab at the top labeled Facebook Home. Be sure to like the page if you have not already so you can see all of out spotlight posts for Jo-Anna!! 

    Jo-Anna is from a small city in Ontario, Canada -- born and raised. She lives with her husband, Michael and their two furbabies (cats), Ziggy and Oreo.
   She just started writing in 2013 and loves it! She absolutely loves her characters and cannot wait to share their stories with the world.

Be sure to check her out at the following links;
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
Goodreads

   Jo-Anna recently released her debut erotic romance, Break Me (Shattered book 1). It is available at the following outlets;

Amazon (US) 
Amazon (Canada)
Smashwords

Paperbacks coming soon!
Author Jo-Anna Walker with her first proof of paperbacks

The Author is giving away 2 eBook copies of her book! Be sure to enter the contest at the end of this post.

Running is always easier.

Tori McLeod moved to the big city to get away from her mother—and her past. Her new routine is destroyed when she meets a mysterious stranger who won’t take no for an answer. Sebastian intrigues her, but his eyes hold secrets she would rather avoid.

Sebastian Chelios, a hard-as-nails enforcer, is a new-in-town loner. He has to have her. Control her. Possess her. But he can’t—won’t—lose control, even though Tori’s innocence fascinates him. The last thing he’s going to do is love her, even after he gets her in his bed.

Losing control is dangerous, especially when someone from Sebastian’s past covets Tori, putting more than just her heart in danger.

Can Sebastian protect Tori from Jose’s sadistic obsession? If he gets his hands on her, will she make it out in one piece?

Interview

PLR: What books/authors have influenced your writing? 

 I try not to read anything that’s in the genre I write in just so I can keep my books fresh and with my own ideas. I wouldn't say that there’s one specific author or book that has influenced my writing but Sylvia Day is definitely one of my inspirations.

PLR: Do you ever experience writer's block? 

 Honestly? No. I just sit in front of my computer and let the words flow through my fingers. If I have to sit at a blank screen for a little bit, I will. Eventually the words start coming.

PLR: Do you write an outline before every book you write? 

Ha. No. If I did that, my characters would change things on me just out of spite.

PLR: Have you ever hated something you wrote? 

I wouldn't say I've hated anything I've written. I've definitely learned from the past things I've written that I wasn't a huge fan of that’s for sure. 

PLR: What is your favorite theme/genre to write about? 

As long as it’s romance-y, I’m good.

PLR: How long have you been writing? 

I just started this year actually. 

PLR: What inspired you to write your first book? 

My aunt inspired me to write my first book. She put the idea in my head and I just went with it.

PLR: Do you have a specific writing style? 

Come back to me on that one. I’m still learning what my style is. 

PLR: How did you come up with the title? 

As I finish each book, you’ll realize that all of my titles are from my males perspective. So for Break Me, it’s what Sebastian wanted so I went with it and it worked. 

PLR: Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp? 

There is such a thing as love at first sight.

PLR: Are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life? 

Nope. They are all made up. 

PLR: If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor? 

Many have helped me in this short time but C.A. Szarek has helped me the most.

PLR: When you get a chance to read, what type of books do you enjoy? 

Ugh. Romance. I love it but I try to stay away from it. Lately, I've been doing that anyways. *sob* I miss my romance.

PLR: Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest? 

DC Hall. Started his book Cuspian. I still need to finish it. I’m a horrible reader. Anyways, I love his book so far!

PLR: What are your current projects? 

How much time do you have? Lol. Seriously though, I’m working on the third book to the Shattered series, a new book (title TBA but I’m so freaking excited for this one), a NA serial novel that’s due out the beginning of next year if I can’t get it out before then and that’s about it so far. 

PLR: Name one entity that you feel supported you outside of family members?

 – Entity? Well if you mean a spiritual type being then my answer would be God. I’m a religious person but I don’t like preaching to people. I’m trying to instill good morals in my characters but that can be hard to do. If you don’t mean a spiritual type being then just the support from everyone amazes and astounds me. 

PLR: Do you see writing as a career? 

No. If I looked at it that way, I would put more pressure on myself and me under pressure doesn't mix well with my lack of patience. Writing for me is relaxing. It’s my way to escape. Not that I have anything to escape from but sometimes escaping reality is needed. Right now, I write as a hobby. If it turns into something more, great. If not, that’s fine too. As long as people read my work, I am happy.

PLR: If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?

 I think for every author, there will always be something that they want to change in a book they've released so yes, there are a couple of changes I would make but I think Break Me is a good intro for what is to come. I just hope people are patient with getting the answers that they are looking for once they read the first book.

PLR: Do you recall how your interest in writing originated? 

A lot of my friends are authors. My bestie is an author. I've been surrounded by it for the last couple of years. Also, going to RT twice now has peaked my interest also. 

PLR: Can you share a little of your current work with us? 

Sure. I can do that. Here’s a little snip it from the early stages (so that means very unedited) of Remember Me (Shattered #3). 

Before he knew what he was doing, he grabbed her shoulders and pinned her against the door. Her beautiful green eyes so responsive to him, dilated, going wide at his abrupt movement. Her pink tongue peeked out, licking her bottom lip.
Garrith’s heart thumped a mile a minute as his gaze traveled down her body. Her dress had ridden up to her thighs, revealing tanned legs that he itched to have wrapped around him.
He cupped the back of her neck and leaned down, his mouth mere inches from hers. He stared into her eyes, letting out a breath and watched her lips part. The control it took to not dive into her at that very moment, made Garrith’s body vibrate.

PLR: Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing? 

Just learning the craft but I know that that will come with time. 

PLR: Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work? 

Well the ladies that run this blog already know what my answer is since that’s how I “met” them but I’ll answer for the rest of you. JR WARD baby!!!!! I traveled 9 hours by bus to see her last year and I freaking love that woman!! What strikes me about her work? Hello? Have you met the brothers?? Need I say more??

PLR: Who designed the covers? 

Once Upon a Time Covers – Thanx to a very special person for referring me to them. You know who you are. ;)

PLR: What was the hardest part of writing your book(s)? 

Editing. Ugh.

PLR: Did you learn anything from writing your book(s) and what was it? 

Yes. My males are controlling.

PLR: What advice would you give to other authors? 

Keep writing. As long as you have the art of storytelling, you’re on your way to something great. Don’t give up.

PLR: Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers? 

THANK YOU! Thank you for reading my book, believing in me and again, reading my book! Even if it wasn't your favorite, or you were confused or even had questions at the end, just thank you. Thank you thank you. And don’t worry, all of your questions will be answered in Always Me. Promise.

PLR: What are your expectations for the book? 

Just for people to enjoy it as much as I enjoyed writing it.

PLR: Which of your books is your favorite? 

Well it’s not out yet but I have a NA serial novel (four parts) due out in the next couple of months. I don’t know if it’s my favorite book but it holds a special place in my heart as they all do. I can’t wait for you all to read it.

PLR: Which of your characters is your favorite? 

Um…I can’t really say that out loud. Have you met my males? Haha. I love them all but I’m really looking forward to writing Lucas’ story. You don’t meet him until the end of book 2 but he’s just amazing. 

PLR: Which of your characters is most/least like you, and in what way(s)? 

I think my girls all have bits of me in them. If you know me really well, you’ll see the hints in the books. 

PLR: Which of your characters would you most/least like to invite to dinner, and why? 

Well for the least like to invite to dinner would probably be Jose. Lol! Most like to invite to dinner would be everyone in my books. They’re all awesome in their own way. But if I had to choose one, it would be Lucas. He’s super smart and I would love to chat with him. I am so excited for you to meet him.

PLR: Do you read reviews of your books? If so, do you pay any attention to them, or let them influence your writing? 

Yeah I shouldn’t really. I’m forcing myself not to read them. I was paying attention to them but after talking to several people, I’ve stopped. I think I’m good now and don’t need to read anymore but no, I don’t let them influence my writing unless it’s helpful critique.

PLR: Have you ever been surprised by a controversy among fans or reviewers - for example, you created a character without thinking too much about what people would think of him, and found some readers loved him and some hated him? 

Well some people aren't a fan of my heroine in Break Me. Apparently Tori makes some stupid decisions but don’t we all?

PLR: If you could have dinner with one person, dead or alive, who would it be and why? 

JR WARD cause she’s freaking awesome and she rocks my socks!

PLR: If you could work with any author who would it be? 

Again, JR WARD!

PLR: Who is your favorite author and is you writing style similar to theirs? 

Really? I think we know this answer already. Lol! But JR WARD for those that don’t know! And no, my style is definitely not the same. Lol!

PLR: What's your favorite part of a book? 

The sexy and lovey scenes. Those are my favorite to write too. Haha.

PLR: When naming your characters, do you give any thought to the actual meaning? 

No. I usually let the characters tell me their names.

PLR: What is your favorite thing to write? Characters, A certain type of scene etc.? 

Oh, I answered this already above. Oops. Lol! I enjoy writing the sexy, tender, hot, raunchy, lovey scenes the most. 

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