Review ~ Something More Than This ~ Barbie Bohrman

Something More Than This by Barbie Bohrman
Release Date: April 26, 2016
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via Netgalley
Rating: 4 Bookworms
Challenges: #2016NewRelease
Goodreads

Synopsis
Katy Lewis has it all: a sports reporting job she loves, a great roommate, and two brothers who, while nosy, always have her back. But when Conner Roberts, Katy's unrequited first crush, suddenly shows up--and shows interest--after nine years, she reverts to a sweaty, panicked sixteen-year-old once more.

And if trying to read Conner's signals isn't tough enough, Katy's heart is sending some mixed messages of its own. When a beautiful blonde coworker starts pursuing Katy's boss, Dylan Sterling--her longtime mentor and friend--she realizes she may have a problem with that. A reunion with Conner is what she's dreamed of for so long...so why can't she stop thinking about Dylan?

For the first time ever, Katy must fact-check her heart. Should she go after the guy she thought she always wanted or see if there's something more with the one who's been there all along?

Something More Than This was a nice diversion and a quick read. This served as my introduction to Bohrman's writing and I enjoyed it. The story was a little predictable, and was short, but it was fun.

What Worked:

• The premise. I enjoyed how Bohrman designed events to make Katy's worlds collide - past and present love possibilities.
• Tough, tenacious heroine. Katie went for it - usually full-tilt - when she wanted something and she had the passion to stick it out in a male-dominated career.
• Friends-to-lovers trope. 
• Predictability. Sometimes it's nice to read a story having a pretty good idea where it's going.
• Format. I liked how we got a few chapters set in the past to set up for Katy's backstory.
• Large cast of characters. I enjoyed all the characters and the roles they filled.

What Didn't Work:

• Large cast. The story was a quick read. Had it been longer, the characters could have been more complex, giving the story more depth.
• Predictable elements. Some things that seemed designed to pull at a particular emotion, or were used in character building, felt contrived.

Overall, I liked Katy's story and I look forward to checking out more from Bohrman.

Review ~ Filthy Rich ~ Raine Miller

Filthy Rich by Raine Miller
Blackstone Dynasty #1
Release Date: November 15, 2016
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via Netgalley
Rating: 3 Bookworms
Challenges: #2016NewRelease, #COYER
Goodreads ~ Amazon

Synopsis
Billionaire Caleb Blackstone lives in the glamorous world of wealth and success, with every material luxury. But the moment he sees Brooke Casterly, none of that matters. Caleb is filled with a raw, undeniable need that he can't ignore...for a girl who is so completely different from everything and everyone he's ever known.

Only Brooke isn't looking for love. She knows all too well just how much damage the wrong guy can do. Still, what same, broke British girl can resist the charms of an incredibly sexy, chivalrous billionaire? What starts as flirtation quickly turns into all-consuming passion. Nothing could have prepared her for the searing heat of Caleb's touch--or just how much she craves him.

Their whirlwind romance is the stuff of high-society fantasy--but for every moment of pleasure, there is a cost. Past mistakes and tragedy shadow them both...and falling for him might be the kind of trouble she can't afford.

Having adored the Blackstone Affair series, I was quick to request Filthy Rich when I saw it offered on Netgalley. While I liked the story overall, it didn't pack quite the punch I was expecting.

What Worked:

• Caleb Blackstone. He was self-assured and handsome, so I loved his becoming tongue-tied when first meeting Brooke.
• Brooke Casterly. She was, for the most part, feisty, lovely, a loyal friend and granddaughter.
• Big Cast. I quite enjoyed meeting the characters I assume will inhabit the series and I'm eager for more of Caleb's siblings.
• The Mystery. There was a lot of the plot that was predictable but there was this one thing...I didn't see it coming.

What Could Have Worked Better:

• The plot. As I said, there was quite a bit that was predictable. There was also an insta-love element and although they built on the relationship, it all happened rather quickly.
• Brooke's past. I suppose this falls into the plot category but I just felt her past could have had a bigger impact. I didn't really feel, under the circumstances, that it made the difference it was meant to.

Overall, I liked Caleb and Brooke's story. There were things that could have made the story more powerful if they'd been executed differently and it was disappointing to be left wanting when Miller is a favorite author of mine. But I liked it enough to continue the series.

Review ~ Mr. Match ~ JA Huss

Mr. Match by JA Huss
Misters #5
Release Date: December 7, 2016
Genre: Adult, Romantic Suspense
Source: Purchased on Kindle
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #2016NewRelease
Goodreads ~ Amazon

Synopsis
Oliver Shrike thinks ahead. He likes to make lists and tick off boxes. He plans, he plots, and he's got everything under control.
Until one day he sees my videos on his dating site. The private erotic videos I make just for him.
When I'm looking at the camera I can practically see his face. Hear the internal arguments. Feel his desire.
Because I'm that kind of woman.
You should delete my videos, Oliver Shrike. It's your job to keep that dating site on the up and up.
But you don't, do you?
You watch them. You get off on them. You crave them.
Every week I make a new one with you in mind. I've got you addicted to my body, my moans, my secrets. I've hooked you now, Mr. Match. You've been in control for way too long and this is where it ends.

Mr. Match is the last book in the Misters series. NOT a standalone book.

Decisions, decisions... Which Mister is my favorite? Well, Oliver Shrike slayed me with his poetic words and artist's soul. His desire to do what he can to protect those he loves. Yeah, this Mister ticked all my boxes. *wink*

Of course, there was a story here - a mystery to solve. And I don't mind saying I had absolutely no idea where Huss was going. None. But oh how I enjoyed the ride. And in hindsight I can see where Huss was leading me in certain instances but mostly she was just messing with my mind. Mr. Match ties together all that's happened with the previous Misters and ties up most of the loose ends. (just one is left dangling and frayed but that's a story for another day - next  year) I appreciated how everything fit together, all the puzzle pieces falling into place. And the story was fantastic - all that backstory, history...incredible.

And then there's Oliver and Katya. Was their meeting fate or something more sinister? I'll let y'all decide but I'm a romantic so... Their obvious deep-rooted feelings, what they've suffered and endured and finagled in order to get each other back...that's a love story.

Mr. Match was exciting and enlightening - well, that last one was saved til the end. But it was worth the wait because Huss kept us dangling but kept us entertained. I'm sad to say goodbye to all these characters. Who knows though...we may seem them again sometime.

Audio Review ~ Stormswept ~ Sabrina Jeffries

Stormswept by Sabrina Jeffries
Wales #1
Narrated by: Carmen Rose
Release Date: November 8, 2016 (audio)
Genre: Adult, Historical Romance
Source: Tantor Media sent me a complimentary copy
Rating: 4 Bookworms
Challenges: #2016NewRelease, Goodreads Reading Challenge
Goodreads ~ Tantor

Synopsis
The first wedding night that Lady Juliana St. Albans spent with the dark and daring Rhys Vaughan was intoxicating, the heady culmination of her new husband's driving hunger and her own awakened sensuality. When he mysteriously disappeared the next morning, she waited for him in hope and desperation. And when he was finally proclaimed dead in a shipwreck, she bitterly mournted the loss of her love.

The second wedding night that Juliana spent with Rhys Vaughan was six years later, after he returned to claim her just as she was about to wed another. This Rhys was different--bolder, harder, and convinced that she'd betrayed him. Only their blazing passion remains from from their years apart. But is it enough to light their way through the maze of mystery, menace, and mistrust--to the love they once shared and would have to find again?

Gah! Finally the blasted stubborn man found some sense!

Yeah, that's a reaction I had to this story. I adored Stormswept though. Jeffries has a gift with unconventional heroines and Juliana was no exception. Sure she might seem a little fickle in her youth but she typically behaves impetuously even once she's older. Rhys is stubborn to a fault and he's lucky to have met his match in Juliana since she's tenacious and strong-willed enough to wait him out.

Juliana and Rhys meet at a meeting of radicals - Welsh men wanting to shuck off the shackles of British rule. Despite Juliana being British, and the daughter of the man responsible for Rhys having lost his estate, Rhys can't help but be drawn to her. After a secret courtship, the two marry only to be found out by her older brothers. That leads to some none too pleasant things for Rhys.

Flash forward six years and Rhys has returned to claim what is rightfully his. However, he believes Juliana had a part in what he's endured for the past six years and this forms the foundation of the tale of subterfuge, intrigue, and learning to trust and love again.

Jeffries crafted a wonderfully entertaining story. While Rhys and Juliana were fleshed out well, some of the side characters were more one-dimensional. For example, I never fully embraced Darcy's (Juliana's oldest brother) political ambitions as an excuse for his actions. I felt he was simply greedy and selfish, wanting what he wanted. The passion between Rhys and Juliana though was palpable.

Carmen Rose was an excellent narrator. She made the distinction between English and Welsh accents believable. And her pacing in the delivery as well as the emotions conveyed by the characters kept me listening usually longer than I intended.

Overall this was a great historical romance!

Audio Review ~ Hunting Season ~ Shelly Laurenston

Hunting Season by Shelly Laurenston
The Gathering #1
Narrated by: Alexandra Shawnee
Release Date: September 6, 2016 (audio)
Genre: Adult, Paranormal Romance
Source: Tantor Audio sent me a complimentary copy
Rating: 4 Bookworms
Challenges: #2016NewRelease
Goodreads

Synopsis
Stubborn, lethal, and from Jersey...what more could a Viking warrior want from his woman?

Neecy Lawrence, winged warrior for a Viking goddess and second-in-command of the fierce Crows, doesn't know what to do with a nice guy. As it is, making up for a past she'd sooner forget leaves her barely polite most days. But Raven leader and loyal Odin warrior, Will Yager, isn't just nice. He's gorgeous, hot, and a distraction she simply can't afford.

Yager has wanted Neecy in his life--and in his bed--for a long time. Not just for a night, but forever. And, like any self-respecting Viking, he'll stop at nothing to get what he wants. So what is she's the most difficult, complex, never-gives-him-a-break woman he's ever known? She's more than worth the effort. In fact, she's worth everything.

And if it turns out that twenty-four hours of non-stop, any-way-she-wants-it sex doesn't work with Neecy? Then it looks like he'll just have to get a little more creative...

Overall, I enjoyed this introduction to The Gathering series. It was fun, steamy, and suspenseful. I'll definitely continue the series. Here's what worked for me, and what didn't work:

What Worked:

• Neecy Lawrence. She's tough, smart, independent, and loyal. Everything I want in a heroine. Oh, and she has wings!
• Wilhelm Yager. A big, brawny Viking, Yager is also tough, smart, loyal, and wily when he needs to be. He also has the patience of a saint, which he needs in trying to woo Neecy. Oh, and he has wings, too!
• Norse mythology. That Laurenston used Skuld's Gathering and Odin's Ravens was particularly exciting. The series apparently revolves around a war between gods which involves their warriors.
• Robust cast. Since the series is about The Gathering and the Ravens, we meet many characters from both groups. I enjoyed the camaraderie and dynamics within the groups as well as between them. I'm eager to see what happens next - who pairs up.
• Suspense. Even though the suspense element played second fiddle to the romance, I was still anxious about what was going on and who was behind it.

What Didn't Work:

• Neecy's continual fighting of her feelings for Yager got to be a bit tedious after awhile.
• Language. No, I'm not talking about profanity. At least, not exactly. There was an extreme repetition of certain words that became annoying since I was hearing it over and over. That said, it might not have been so irksome if I'd been reading it rather than listening.

As for Ms. Shawnee - I liked her voice and her delivery. She kept the story flowing. However, she lacked the range for such a large cast of characters. I think she'd be better suited for a book with fewer voices required.

Audio Review ~ One Ride ~ Chelsea Camaron

One Ride by Chelsea Camaron
The Hellions Ride #1
Narrated by: Maxine Mitchell and Joe Arden
Release Date: April 26, 2016 (audio)
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: Tantor Audio sent me a complimentary copy
Rating: 3.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #2016NewRelease
Goodreads

Synopsis
Roundman, president of the Hellions Motorcycle Club, has kept the chaos surrounding the Hellions contained for the last thirty years. When the dangerous side to their business comes knocking on his only child's doorstep, he realizes that his precious daughter-Delilah ("Doll")-isn't safe anymore. With Doll in danger from the association she has with him and his club, Roundman makes the only decision he feels he can-send her away. Calling on the one charter club president he trusts, he sets up a ride to keep her safe, all in hopes that trouble won't follow. Talon "Tripp" Crews has been ordered to take Doll on one ride away from the dnager while the club handles the threat. She's off-limits. His head knows this, but his body can't deny the attraction. She's feisty, fierce, and fearless. Constantly in close confines together, will they give in to the desire? Can one ride turn lust into love? Contains mature themes.

I picked One Ride because I was in the mood for an MC story. While One Ride didn't deliver exactly what I was looking for, it was still an enjoyable story.

Delilah "Doll" Reklinger is the daughter of the President of the Hellions. As such, she's treated as precious. Even though the MC life is all she's known and is what she wants for herself, her daddy isn't so sure he wants this life for her. He's done a good job of keeping his club clean and Doll safe but when trouble shows up at Doll's desk, invasive action is required.

Enter Tripp Crews. Tripp is a trusted member of the Hellions and Roundman's first choice in carrying out his plan to protect Doll. If only Tripp wasn't so attracted to her. If only she wasn't off-limits.

Overall, I liked this story. The characters were relatable and I did immerse myself in their story. But here's the thing - I felt Doll acted bratty quite often and it bothered me. Also, I would have liked more exploration of and dealing with the danger. It would have given the story more depth. And I was looking for the dynamics and camaraderie within an MC but it wasn't here in the detail I was hoping for. Of course, that's what I get for going in with expectations.

Mitchell and Arden were excellent though! They kept me engaged despite the story not delivering all I wanted. I will continue the series - I have to know what happens with a few of the secondary characters.

Audio Review ~ My Heart's in the Highlands ~ Angeline Fortin

My Heart's in the Highlands by Angeline Fortin
Narrated by: Kirsten Potter
Release Date: May 24, 2016 (audio)
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: Tantor Audio sent me a complimentary copy
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #2016NewRelease
Goodreads

Synopsis
Sixty-eight seconds. Can a life be lived in sixty-eight seconds? Can the love of a lifetime be discovered and lost in just a minute? Mikah Bauer stepped into the street in front of the Glasgow Museum of Modern Art and found herself lost in a nightmare that became a dream come true when Ian Conagham, the Marquis of Ayr, appeared before her. Mikah found herself living another life, a fairy tale of love and passion such as she never imagined. Then came the nightmare that tore it all away as quickly as fate had handed it to her. Contains mature themes.

I have to admit to choosing this book for two reasons:

1. Highlands = Highlanders
2. Kirsten Potter

Yep. Luckily, in Fortin I've found an author whose storytelling I like. My Heart's in the Highlands is a little difficult to categorize - it's kinda time-travel, it's sort of historical romance, and it's a little contemporary. But it is 100% entertaining.

Do you believe that two souls so deeply in love in one lifetime could meet again in another? I do now.

I love how Fortin had the story unfold - a young woman finding herself in the body of another woman, in the past. I adored seeing Hero and Ian fall for one another. They found a love so deep and profound. I felt it acutely. I liked Fortin's use of reincarnation and the allusions to Mikah experiencing a past life. I liked the subterfuge and the suspense it created in Hero and Ian's life. And I liked how Fortin brought everything back to the present as well as the resolution.

Yes, this is all rather vague. But I think My Heart's in the Highlands is a book to be experienced. Particularly with the excellent narration of Kirsten Potter. Potter excels at expressing the emotion and pacing of a novel. She never fails to have me gasping, experiencing butterflies or goosebumps, or making me bawl my eyes out. Yes, I know the story must be impressive as well but I've not listened to a book yet narrated by Potter that I didn't love. I'm eager to continue this series - I don't believe the stories are linked but I know I'll enjoy the story as well as the narration.

1. Highlands = Highlanders
2. Potter = Excellent Narration
3. Fortin = Fantastic story

Audio Review ~ Sweet Nothing ~ Jamie McGuire & Teresa Mummert

Sweet Nothing by Jamie McGuire & Teresa Mummert
Narrated by: Carly Robins and Nelson Hobbs
Release Date: April 5, 2016 (audio)
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: Tantor Audio sent me a complimentary copy
Rating: 4 Bookworms
Challenges: #2016NewRelease
Goodreads

Synopsis
It is enough to break any man: watching what could have been my future slip away before it was ever in my grasp. The possibility of losing someone I loved, before she was even mine, is something I never would have imagined. Certainly nothing I'd ever wish on anyone. I go to her every day and wait. Wait for the impossible, for a sign, for her to look at me...hoping that sinners are granted miracles, too. Just one glimpse of him was all it took. In the next lane, at a stop light, was the man I would fall in love with and marry. People talk about the kind of lover that takes time, love you fall into. We were more like a crash and burn, and when our lives intertwined I would never be the same. He was the man I would cherish the rest of my life, who would father my children. In an instant our life together began, and in an instant it would end. The late night; the excuses; the lies. And in the blink of an eye, it was like we never were. Contains mature themes.

This review is really hard to write without giving anything away, so my vagueness is intentional. I have to admit that while I liked the story, at about 2/3 in, I was thinking this would be a 3-star read. Then things kinda got turned on their head. And in the end, I felt that the way things wrapped up - reminiscent of a favorite movie - earned the story a few points.

Can one moment really change your life? Can its impact be so profound as to change your perspective - change the way you look at and live your life? That's what Avery and Josh consider after a life-changing event.

Avery, an ER nurse, is steady, hard-working, always playing it safe. Even in her love life, she doesn't risk anything so that there's never anything to lose. Josh, an EMT, is a player with a penchant for nurses. He plays the field always letting the ladies know where they stand. He doesn't get emotionally involved because he knows he can't be there for anyone in that way.

But one moment with Avery changes everything.

I enjoyed how McGuire and Mummert alternated POVs to convey the story. Getting to know Josh and Avery as they got to know each other was fun. Their banter was playful and seeing Josh and Avery invest emotionally in each other ended up being beautiful. When things started going bad, I got frustrated. I felt like Avery was irrational a lot of times as well as too harsh. Of course, Josh wasn't making the best choices either and that was frustrating as well. I couldn't believe, or at least I didn't want to, that they'd throw it all away - all they'd built together. It was maddening.

The ending was completely unexpected but I quite liked it. It eased some of the tension I'd been feeling towards Avery and Josh and moved Sweet Nothing from a just okay read to a good one.

The narrators were excellent. Carly Robins and Nelson Hobbs were new-to-me narrators and they embodied Josh and Avery. They kept the pace of the story even as well as conveyed all the emotion and turmoil being experienced.

Overall, Sweet Nothing was a good listen. I liked the twist thrown in that took Josh and Avery's story up a notch.

Audio Review ~ Pirate ~ Eve Langlais

Pirate by Eve Langlais
Space Gypsy Chronicles #1
Narrated by: Chandra Skyye
Release Date: May 24, 2016 (audio)
Genre: Adult, Science Fiction, Romance
Source: Tantor Audio sent me a complimentary copy
Rating: 3 Bookworms
Challenges: #2016NewRelease
Goodreads

Synopsis
Earth: a space pirate's dream when it comes to booty, but not a good place to hide when bounty hunters come looking. Pulling up stakes means Rafe must leave his vintage trailer behind, but in the process he acquires a passenger, a mouthy female who seems to think she's calling the shots. She'll soon learn who's the captain. And it isn't Annabelle, his sassy ship.

A true red-blooded male, Rage does his best to teach Emma her place in the universe, but her human attitude gets in the way. So why doesn't he sell her when he gets the chance? Damned if he knows, but despite his motto of "the universe revolves around me", he finds himself putting his life in peril to save hers. But that doesn't mean he's letting her in on all his secrets. Some things a man has to carry alone, and some revelations a pirate will kill to keep.

The universe might be out to get him, but he's not giving in without a fight.

Pirate isn't my first read from Langlais, but it is my first listen. It's also the first in a new sci-fi series and while the characters and the world building were interesting, it didn't always hold my attention.

Emma, or "Wench", as Rafe lovingly? refers to her, is a delivery truck driver. She's been delivering to Rage for awhile and he's also apparently been trying to score with her. Despite the fact Emma is rather charmed by him, she's continually refused him. This would actually turn out in her favor when she's essentially kidnapped by Rage and removed from Earth.

See, Rafe is a space pirate and as such he often angers powerful people, meaning he's a wanted man. He's also an alien, um, Romani. They're travelers and Rafe gained a traveling companion in Emma when she was in the wrong place at the wrong time.

As Langlais developed these characters, the spaceship, and world they now inhabit, we learn that the Romani are quite chauvinistic in their treatment of women. There are also hints at Rafe's and Emma's feelings towards on another - especially Rafe's - as being "special". There was some sarcasm and sexually-charged banter - I particularly liked Rafe's AI, who runs his spaceship, being so snarky with him. But honestly, I was bored for a lot of the book. At about 75% in, more hints were dropped about where this story might be going, the romance amp'd up, and the suspense tightened. From there, I was eager to put my earbuds in and listen to what happened next.

Is it the narrator, the story, or just me? I don't know. I felt Skyye did a fairly good job with narrating but her delivery in places was slow and that didn't help keep me engaged. I really think this is a case of me having certain expectations of Langlais and those not being met. Not as much humor and not as many sexy times. She did hook me in the end though and I will continue the series.

#TravelingtotheTerminus Review ~ Devil and the Deep ~ Julie Ann Walker

Devil and the Deep by Julie Ann Walker
Deep Six #2
Release Date: July 5, 2016
Genre: Adult, Romantic Suspense
Source: I received a copy from the publisher via Netgalley
Rating: 4 Bookworms
Challenges: #2016NewRelease, #TravelingtoTerminus
Goodreads

Synopsis
Cocktail parties, political fundraisers, and charity events are Maddy Powers' way of life. But the daring man who appropriated her father's yacht a couple of months ago is still out there, somewhere, and she wants to pay him back for the scorching kiss they shared.

Behind his suave smile and ladykiller eyes, Bran Palladino carries a dark secret that keeps him from pursuing Maddy... even though he can't get her out of his head. But when Maddy is kidnapped as part of a grand scheme, it's time to put up or shut up... because Bran can't live without Maddy now.

I found this second installment of the Deep Six series to be just as entertaining as the first, if a little less compelling, but for different reasons.

The suspense element wasn't quite as gripping but I think that's because of the baddies behind things and their reasons for it weren't quite as relevant as what went on in Hell or High Water. However, trying to figure out the who and the why as well as how far they're willing to go to accomplish the end game was exciting.

The romance between Maddy and Bran shares page time with the suspense. These two met when Maddy's family yacht was hijacked in the previous installment. They have amazing chemistry and a relationship founded in friendship as they've only communicated via email since they met. Their banter is a lot of give and take and I enjoyed it. Maddy is one tough chick - mentally - and meets things head on. So Bran's insistence they remain only friends because he's not good enough for her was a challenge she had no problems undertaking. And I was so happy Bran was finally able to see in himself what everyone else, including Maddy, did. My only issue was that some of the romantic elements occurred during times when I would have thought a former SEAL would have had his mind on other things.

We're also privy to some fun back and forth between Mason and Alex. These two made me laugh with Alex's incessant talking and Mason's reliance on grunting. *ha* I'm eager to see how their sparks finally ignite.

One more thing - the prologue and epilogue from the Spanish Captain's POV is a touch I truly appreciate. I love the history it incorporates as well as how it plays into the mystery of the treasure the Deep Six gang is hunting. 

Bring on #3!

Audio Series Review ~ Sugar Bowl Series ~ Sawyer Bennett

The Sugar Bowl series is fantastic! I listened to Sugar Daddy back in September. The cliffhanger ending had me deciding to wait for both remaining installments to be available before I continued, and that was a good decision. (Thanks, Lex, for that advice.) Once I had Sugar Free, the final installment, in my hot little hands, I listened to both Sugar Rush and Sugar Free back-to-back. This is such a great series and it solidified my appreciation for Sawyer Bennett's writing. And I'm not going to lie, Lucy Rivers' and Christian Fox's narration played a huge part in keeping my earbuds stuck in my ears for hours! They're incredible! Since I listened to them all so closely, I figured a series review was the way to go. Enjoy!

Sugar Daddy by Sawyer Bennett
Narrated by: Lucy Rivers and Christian Fox
Release Date: July 20, 2016
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance, Romantic Suspense
Source: Tantor Audio sent me a complimentary copy
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #2016NewRelease
Goodreads

Synopsis
Sela Halstead lost her innocence in a way that no sixteen-year-old should ever have to endure. She's spent years trying to forget that night, even while wondering about the identities of the monsters who brutalized her-until a telltale tattoo flashes across Sela's TV screen. The incriminating ink belongs to Jonathon Townsend, the millionaire founder of The Sugar Bowl, a website that matches rich older men with impressionable young women. Obsessed with revenge, Sela infiltrates Townsend's world, only to come face-to-face with a tantalizing complication: Beckett North, his charismatic business partner. The tech mastermind behind The Sugar Bowl, Beck always gets what he wants, in business and in bed. And yet, for a man who's done every dirty thing imaginable, there's something about the naive, fresh-faced Sela that sparks his hottest fantasies. Because with her, it's not just about sex. Beck opens up to her in ways he never has with other girls. So why does he get the feeling that she's hiding something? In a world of pleasure and power, the shocking truth could turn them against each other-or bind them forever. Contains mature themes.

Sugar Daddy was more than a sweet read. It was gut-wrenching, suspenseful, and heartwarming. It left me dying to know what happens next. Bennett pulled me into Sela's story, wrapped me up in her vengeance, and turned up the heat with her romance with Beck. I'm hooked and sugared up!

Sela's story broke my heart. To come through to the other side after what she endured was nothing short of amazing. And I admired her choice of career - one where she could give back to people who might have suffered like she did. She had major emotional scars and to watch her progress - how Beck reached past all her scars and barriers - was incredible.

Beck was fascinating. He's smart and funny. And he has emotional issues himself. He maintains emotional distance, never dating, and mainly focuses on work. He's also been dealing with an increasingly reckless business partner in JT, who's also his best friend. When he meets Sela, something in him shifts and he decides he'd like to try to build something with her. Only there's tension between Sela and JT that Beck doesn't understand.

JT is despicable. And really, nothing more needs to be said about him.

My only issue with this story is the extreme measures Sela is willing to go to in order to exact her revenge. Not that I didn't understand the desire but I also felt it says something a little deeper about Sela and I'm not sure Bennett is trying to go there. Overall though, Sugar Daddy was riveting and I can't wait to see what happens!

As for the narration, Lucy Rivers had to grow on me but she so did. Her delivery, pacing, and ability to convey the emotion warranted was impressive. Christian Fox *is* Beck. I loved his delivery from the first chapter and am eager to hear more from him.

Sugar Rush by Sawyer Bennett
Narrated by: Lucy Rivers and Christian Fox
Release Date: September 13, 2016
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance, Romantic Suspense
Source: Tantor Audio sent me a complimentary copy
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #2016NewRelease
Goodreads

Synopsis
After posing as an escort for the Sugar Bowl online dating service, Sela Halstead is looking for one thing: payback. She's closing in on the site's heartless founder, Jonathon Townsend, and she needs Beckett North, Townsend's business partner and her lover, by her side. She'd thought that their intimate nights together had forged an unbreakable bond, but after a shocking betrayal, Sela begins to doubt the brilliant bad boy. When push comes to shove, can she trust Beck to do the right thing? Now that he understands the truth, Beck will stop at nothing to secure the reckoning Sela deserves. But between his desire for her and his disgust for JT, Beck doesn't exactly have a lot of control over his emotional state. Left with no other choice, he must summon all his discipline to maintain JT's trust and pretend that they're still friends. But how far will Beck go to prove his loyalty to Sela? He nearly lost her once. To keep her, Beck might have to kill for her.

This sequel was equally as thrilling as the first installment with jaw-dropping revelations and heart-pounding events!

Sugar Rush picks up immediately where Sugar Daddy left off. It broke my heart to see Sela dealing with how things went down with Beck but I also liked seeing Beck calm down and look at things rationally. The steps he took to make amends filled in all the cracks he'd made in my heart, as well as Sela's.

The direction things went from there were actually logical, if shocking, and understandable. As Sela and Beck took steps in making their relationship more solid - falling for one another even harder - the all plotted to exact revenge on JT. I admired them both for working towards a revenge that would appease them both as well as leave them relatively "clean".

The ending though - full of revelations that honestly made me sick - was shocking! I didn't see any of it coming. And I'm oh so grateful I already have Sugar Free in my possession. Lucy Rivers and Christian Fox are the perfect duo and embody Sela and Beck. *inserting ear buds*

Sugar Free by Sawyer Bennett
Narrated by: Lucy Rivers and Christian Fox
Release Date: October 18, 2016
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance, Romantic Suspense
Source: Tantor Audio sent me a complimentary copy
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #2016NewRelease
Goodreads

Synopsis
Sela and Beck's deliciously sinful tale of sex, lies, and vengeance reaches its explosive conclusion in the final chapter of Sawyer Bennett's Sugar Bowl trilogy, which began with the novels Sugar Daddy and Sugar Rush.

For years, Sela Halstead dreamed of revenge, but the quest for payback has been anything but sweet. Now, once again, she finds herself at the mercy of Jonathon Townsend, his hands crushing the very breath from her body. And even though she escapes with her life, Sela fears she may never recover. In desperate need of shelter and comfort, she runs to the one man she can trust. Beckett North has stood by Sela since the beginning. But can he handle the brutal truth?

Beck will do anything to protect what is his--and make no mistake, Sela belongs to him, heart and soul. The passion between them runs hot, even as their world begins to unravel. With the legacy of his ruthless business partner hanging in the balance, Beck stands to lose everything: his fortune, his family, his freedom. But each touch of Sela's mouth on his skin, her nails down his back, makes it harder to let her go--and it might not even be his choice to make.

I am so happy I had Sugar Free downloaded and ready to go. Sela and Beck's story has been a thrill ride so far and Sugar Free didn't disappoint. In any way.

Honestly, I couldn't see a way out of the situation Sela and Beck had found themselves in. Well, I guess I could see one but I didn't like that option. After everything they've been through and sacrificed for the other, that option didn't sit well with me. But in light of there being no other options, I suppose it was better than nothing. 

The revelations made in Sugar Free were shocking - some were even disgusting. When push came to shove, the character of all involved was truly shown and I was disappointed in a few characters but justified in my feelings for others.

The twist Bennett wove in - well, I didn't see it coming. It'd never crossed my mind and I'm always impressed when an author can surprise me like that.
The ending as well as the epilogue was perfect. Y'all know I always enjoy being a part of a journey with characters, particularly journeys where emotional growth occurs. Being with Sela as she progressed from a vengeful victim to a well-adjusted survivor was an incredible experience. Watching as Beck took her hand and walked beside her every step of the way - even when they stumbled - was heartwarming. They both grew - realized what was most important in this life - and it's been a journey I won't soon forget.

Lucy Rivers and Christian are on my favorites list now. I'd listen to Christian Fox read my grocery list or tell me he's sorry but all customer service reps are currently assisting other customers...Both narrators did an incredible job of conveying every nuance of emotion in this story. Fox's delivery in particular was very natural, easy...and I just loved it. I'll definitely be looking for more listens with them both!

#TravelingtotheTerminus Review ~ Coming Clean ~ C.L. Parker

Coming Clean by C.L. Parker
Monkey Business Trio #3
Release Date: September 20, 2016
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: I received an eARC from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Rating: 4 Bookworms
Challenges: #2016NewRelease, #BlogAhead2016
Goodreads

Synopsis
The steamy conclusion of C.L. Parker's Monkey Business Trio

They have been rivals who fought until the bitter end and lovers who know every sensual inch of each other's bodies. Now sports agents Cassidy Whalen and Shaw Matthews are about to become the one thing they never expected to be: parents. But this new dynamic to their relationship threatens to fizzle the sizzling desire that once held them in thrall to each other. If salvation is only a forbidden fantasy away, then Shaw and the woman he loves must embark on the adventure of their lives.

Cassidy is aching to reignite their connection. In steamy assignations in strange places, she and Shaw live out their most intimate desires--and reveal their deepest secrets. But as Shaw works overtime to sign a superstar athlete, a corporate reshuffling could be a game-changer. Can Cassidy and Shaw save their relationship and have it all--a career, family, and passion that never quits?

Coming Clean is intended for mature audiences.

Coming Clean is a departure from the tone of the first two in this trio. And thinking on it now, each book followed the different phases in the evolution of Cassidy and Shaw's relationship. That's kinda clever. We've been along for the ride with this couple as they went from enemies to loves, falling in love, and in this final installment, we see them trying to find their way back together after events in their lives forced changes in their relationship.

Coming Clean wasn't what I was expecting but it turned out that wasn't a bad thing. I actually liked seeing a realistic portrayal of a couple a few years into their relationship and with a child - how it affects your feelings towards each other and about yourself. And I liked seeing their commitment to one another remained strong despite the "bumps in the road" and that they got outside help in order to achieve their goals. With that help they were able to get to where they wanted and needed to be.

This installment wasn't as exciting as the previous ones but as I said, it felt realistic and genuine. And in the end, it was heartwarming.

New Release Review ~ Trust ~ Jana Aston

Trust by Jana Aston
Wrong #3
Release Date: November 8, 2016
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance, Romantic Comedy
Source: I received an ARC from the author but also purchased my own copy on Kindle
Rating: 5 Bookworms
Challenges: #2016NewRelease, #TravelingtoTerminus
Goodreads ~ Amazon

Synopsis
"Knock knock!"
"Um... Who's there?"

Yeah. That was me, on my last date. Before you feel sorry for me you should know that I was the one telling the jokes. Jokes as in plural, because I didn't stop with just one. Of course not.

Hi, I'm Chloe Scott. The most awkward single girl in the city.
But I'm going to get it together. I am.

I'm going to learn how to date like a grown up.
I'm going to have an orgasm not given to myself.
I'm going to fall in love and live happily ever after.

Right after I get out of this interrogation room.

I have adored every moment I've spent in the world Aston created in the Wrong series. These characters - I feel like they're my all my friends. But Chloe and Boyd - these two characters and their story will forever hold a special place in my heart.

We met Chloe and Boyd in the previous installments but spent little time with them. I knew enough about Chloe to like her but I had no idea I'd relate to her on such a personal level. And Boyd, well, I knew he was an upstanding guy. I mean, he's an FBI agent and he took the time to build a relationship with his half sister, Sophie. But the patience (saintly patience) and creativity he showed with Chloe was heartwarming.

trustnoun1. firm belief in the reliability, truth, ability, or strength of someone or something

I think trust is something we sort of take for granted but its an integral part of any relationship. And it's an element Chloe has a hard time granting - especially with a relationship that might turn intimate. She gets very anxious in new social situations - and starts telling ridiculous jokes. And she thinks something's wrong with her - that's she's not normal.

Boyd knows he's attracted to her and that he'd like to get to know her better from their first meeting in an interrogation room. After crashing one of her dates, he realizes he'll have to tread carefully and creatively to get to where he wants to be with Chloe. Being witness to his gameplan, watching it unfold, was so much fun. And I fell just as hard for him as Chloe did.

Aston really outdid herself with Trust, incorporating her comedic talents while digging deeper and dealing with something that afflicts many people - social anxiety. As a person who suffers from it, although not to an extreme degree, she nailed it.

I'm kinda sad to say goodbye to these characters. But I'm also extremely eager to see what Aston comes up with next. I have complete and total trust whatever it is, it'll be golden!