Audio Review ~ Even the Score ~ Beth Ehemann #AudioChallenge #COYER

Even the Score by Beth Ehemann
Narrated by: Christian Fox and Lucy Rivers
Release Date: September 6, 2016
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: Purchased on Audible
Rating: 4 Bookworms
Challenges: #AudioChallenge, #COYER, #ShelfLove
Goodreads

Synopsis
Single dad Andy Shaw loves his job as a sports agent, with one exception: it doesn't leave him much time for his kids. No parent likes being sidelined, so Andy decides to hire someone to share the workload. But when one of the hottest agents in the industry applies, Andy knows that this deal is definitely trouble.

Danicka Douglas works her butt off, but being an attractive woman in a testosterone-heavy industry isn't exactly a cakewalk. She guards her professional reputation fiercely, which means no crushing on her gorgeous boss. But the more they ignore that sexy little spark, the more it sizzles...

Just when it looks like romance might be in the plan, Dani is threatened by a stalker with dark intentions. To keep her safe, Andy must cross the line between professional and very personal...because this time, he's playing for keeps.

Even the Score was my first Beth Ehemann read and I'm eager to read her backlist now so I can get the stories behind a few of the characters I met here. Andy and Danicka's story was one I enjoyed even though I wished a few things had been handled differently.

What Worked:

• Characters Andy is a good guy. A single dad who has built his business and life around providing for his kids. In order to spend more time with them he decides to take on a partner - enter Danicka. Danicka is a strong and intelligent woman making a name for herself in a male-dominated profession. I liked them both, who they were as individuals - loyal and compassionate and funny - and I liked them together. They built a friendship first and then worked at the more.
• Plot The circumstances that enabled Andy and Danicka to get closer, while maybe a little predictable, felt realistic. Ehemann was able to surprise me with the reveal which kinda shocked me. I appreciated the suspense and tension these circumstances created. I also liked the sports management element which kept me guessing.
• Romance This is a slow-burn and it worked. There were many things to consider before going in - Andy and Danicka's work relationship, Andy's kids, their pasts - but I liked how Ehemann made it all work.
• Narration I admit to having grabbed this book because I adore Christian Fox's narration. And he proved once again why he's one of my favorites. His delivery, his pacing, his voices...gah! I just love him. Lucy Rivers is a narrator I enjoy as well and that's a good thing since she's routinely paired with Christian Fox. ;)

What Could Have Worked Better:

• Danicka's Issues I felt like there were things - like her being raised by a single dad - that could have been explored more which would have given her more depth and complexity.
• The Reveal The reveal honestly surprised me but at the same time, I think it was tied up way too neatly. That part wasn't realistic all things considered.

Overall, I liked Even the Score and I'll be adding more of Ehemann's books to my library.

Blogger Chick Chat Review ~ Bad at Love ~ Karina Halle #2018NewRelease #AudioChallenge

Bad at Love by Karina Halle
Narrated by: Cornell Collins and Jo Raylan
Release Date: March 27, 2018
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: I received a complimentary copy from Tantor Audio. This did not affect my rating and my review is provided voluntarily.
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #2018NewRelease, #AudioChallenge
Goodreads

Synopsis
She's bad at love, but he's even worse...

Marina is hot, blonde, and wickedly smart, but when it comes to men? She's hopeless. Between her quirks and her lack of filter, there isn't a man in Los Angeles that will stick around after the third date.

Her handsome, charming friend Lazarus has the opposite problem. Everyone wants to be the sexy Brit's girlfriend, but he gets bored and moves on quickly.

There's only one way to figure out why neither of them has cracked this love thing -- they'll date each other. On paper, it's the perfect experiment. But in reality, things between Marina and Laz get complicated quickly.

They might be bad at love, but they are even worse at being friends.

Hi wifey! I'm so happy we buddy read Bad at Love - you know, Karina Halle seems to be our "go-to" author for these. ;) Okay, let's chat!

What did you think of Laz's serial monogamy?

Me: I found it very interesting that he dated for periods of time but always had a girl to move to immediately - and that it was easy because he never got close to a girl or let them get close to him. It said a lot about his feelings on relationships even though he felt he was doing a good thing.

Lex: I thought that Laz's serial monogamy was a way for him to not be alone, but also to not be invested. He made himself believe what he did was OK, because he didn't cheat. However, he also didn't really give his girlfriends a chance, as he always knew there was an expiration date.

And what about Laz's career? Poet? Lead singer of a cover band?

I felt both were ways to keep people from really knowing him since poetry is open to interpretation and singing someone else's lyrics allows you to hide. Both were brilliant ways to develop Laz's character and convey the issues he had due to his past. But I loved that he was open with Marina - showed her his true self - and it was easy with her.

Yummy! I loved both his poetry and his music - even when he sang cover songs, he kind of did make them his own. But yeah, he always took the safe road, not taking risks or showing anyone who he really was. I loved his and Marina's friendship too - you know friends to lovers stories are among my favorites, and with Bad at Love, that was one of the things that really made me swoon.

Marina was quirky and I loved her for it. How do you think her childhood influenced her career and relationship choices?

I adored the bee lady! She was out to save everyone - and the planet - one bee at a time. So her career said a lot about her need to save since she was unable to save someone close to her and I think she felt she failed at saving another someone close to her as well. Her relationships and the way she sabotaged them was a self-preservation mechanism. You can't get hurt if you don't let anyone close. In that way, she and Laz were similar. And yet they let themselves be close to each other...because romance was out of the equation. Until it wasn't...

I adored Marina and her awkward dorkiness! It was so funny how she'd have extra coffee and then too much wine at her third date - making sure it would be a disaster, then doing her bee-dance at the end. :D Definitely a self-preservation mechanism, plus, I am pretty sure her subconscious knew there was only one man for her, all the others were just fillers.

Marina and Laz's friendship was miraculous considering how "bad" at love they were. Did you think Laz had ulterior motives for his suggestion about them fake dating or do you think he was genuine and then was genuinely surprised by the results?

I thought he had ulterior motives until I saw his reaction to how good they were together. I was happy about that - but I also felt Marina needed the fake dating to get past her "need" to sabotage things. Then of course I wanted to string Laz up for doing what he always did. I mean, I understood but that was when he should have leaned on Marina... *sigh* All's well that ends well though. :D

I don't think Laz had ulterior motives per se, but he did have strong feelings for her from the beginning, I'm sure of that. However, when things started getting more tangled, he really didn't know what to do with all those feelings he had kept at bay for so long. I cried with Marina when Laz was stupid like that. And while I could kind of understand him, I had hoped he'd be stronger with her.

What did you think overall? And did you get the feeling that this might have been a bit autobiographical? Marina? Lazarus "Scott"?

Overall, I liked Bad at Love. I do love a friends-to-lovers romance and this one just really worked for me. I loved that they'd found their "weirdo" and *finally* figured it out. And I did wonder at whether this was semi-autobiographical since Marina is similar to Karina and her husband's name is Scott... In any event, it was a great read!

I didn't even think of that at all! Autobiographical? Eh...
I loved that Laz and Marina found their weirdo, too, what more can we all ask for, right? I've even found more than one weirdo, since I now also have you, wifey. ;)


So there you have it! Both Lexxie and I adored these characters and how they found their way to love. *sigh*

One thing to note: I actually listened to Bad at Love, which was narrated by Jo Raylan and Cornell Collins. These were both new-to-me narrators and I was impressed. They kept the pace just right as well as kept their voiced distinct and consistent. And they both conveyed the depth and breadth of emotions - especially during the sexy scenes. ;)

#Audio Review ~ Beneath this Mask ~ Meghan March #AudioChallenge #COYER

Beneath this Mask by Meghan March
Beneath #1
Narrated by: Andi Arndt and Holter Graham
Release Date: June 30, 2015
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: Purchased on Audible
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #AudioChallenge, #COYER, #ShelfLove
Goodreads

Synopsis
He loves me, and he doesn't even know my real name.

The limelight that follows him could expose everything I'm hiding. But even knowing the risks, I can't force myself to stay away.

I'm going to break his heart, but mine will shatter right along with it.

Will we lose it all when I reveal what's beneath this mask?

Beneath this Mask was a captivating story brilliantly brought to life through Arndt's and Graham's narration (although I preferred Arndt's). There wasn't much about this story I didn't like - from the premise to the well-developed characters down to the NOLA setting - it was all good and I'm so happy I gave MMarch a go!

Highlights:

• Premise
  A Bernie Madoff-style swindle that ruined not only the lives of those swindled but also that of a young woman whose belief in her father was destroyed forcing that young woman into hiding knowing her life would never again be "normal". While in hiding she meets a man who makes her want to give up her solitary lifestyle, maybe reveal her secrets...but she knows that because of his family's name and his career ambitions her mask of ink and colored hair aren't any better for him than the what the fallout would be were the secrets about her identity revealed.
• Charlie & Simon/Romance
  Charlie and Simon meet in a tattoo shop. Simon is rather persistent in his pursuit of Charlie and despite her misgivings she eventually relents.
  I adored Charlie. She's smart, resilient, tough, and independent...all qualities I admire. She had absolutely no issues living without all the trappings of her privileged upbringing. In fact, those trappings, which she recognizes as the blessings they were, were never things she desired. What she wanted more was a dad who wasn't "dirty" and a mom who validated and valued her for the person she is. But she's finding that in her new life.
  Simon is the son of a semi-famous family and an all-around good guy. I appreciated how he was so into Charlie that he was willing to let her let him in at her own pace. What I also appreciated with these two was their character growth. They both realized what they wanted and that it was going to take some unpleasantness to get there. But they were both willing to wade through that unpleasantness for their own happiness as well as for each other.
• NOLA
  MMarch did well with bringing to life the vibrant city. From clubs to street vendors, tattoo shops to Bourbon Street, and wedding parades, too...it made me want to go back to New Orleans ASAP!
• Secondary Characters
  MMarch also created a nice little cast of secondary characters including Charlie's friends - especially Con - her dog, Huck, and Simon's family. I believe I'll get Con's story later in the series and I'm tickled pink over that. :)
• Narration
  Y'all! I seriously FLOVE Andi Arndt!! Holter Graham was good too but Arndt really nailed it. I feel like I always say the same things about narrators I enjoy but Arndt easily switched from Charlie's voice to Simon's - including a little NOLA-flare for him - and her delivery just ROCKED. 

Beneath this Mask was an absolute pleasure. And it made my 10 hour drive to Texas a joy!

Audio Review ~ Show Me the Way ~ A.L. Jackson #AudioChallenge #ShelfLove

Show Me the Way by A.L. Jackson
Fight for Me #1
Narrated by: Andi Arndt and Zachary Webber
Release Date: October 13, 2017
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: Purchased on Audible
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #AudioChallenge, #ShelfLove
Goodreads

Synopsis
Rex Gunner. As bitter as he is beautiful.

The owner of the largest construction company in Gingham Lakes has been burned one too many times. His wife leaving him to raise their daughter was the last blow this single dad could take. The only woman he'll let into his heart is his little girl.

Rynna Dayne. As vulnerable as she is tempting.

She ran from Gingham Lakes when she was seventeen. She swore to herself she would never return. Then her grandmother passed away and left her the deed to the diner that she once loved.

When Rex meets his new neighbor, he knows he's in trouble.

She's gorgeous and sweet and everything he can't trust.

Until she becomes the one thing he can't resist.

One kiss sends them tumbling toward ecstasy.

But in a town this size, pasts are bound to collide. Caught in a web of lies, betrayal, and disloyalty, Rex must make a choice.

Will he hide behind his walls or will he take the chance...

Oh my! It's been awhile since I spent time in a world created by A.L. Jackson and I'd forgotten how rich her stories are. I loved every second I spent in Gingham Lakes and its inhabitants and am eager to return.

Highlights:

• Rynna & Rex
  Goodness did I love these two! They've both been burned - badly - and yet are still such giving people. They're loyal to their family and friends and care so deeply about them and their hometown. Watching them fight and eventually fall was beautiful.
• Frankie Lee
  I believe I've mentioned how I feel about guys with kids. *wink* Frankie Lee and her daddy (Rex) were something to behold!
• Plot
  The circumstances behind Rynna's return were sad but I couldn't help but feel Fate - and Rynna's grandma - had a hand in all that came afterward. The ways in which Rynna and Rex were tangled up in each other - people they knew, their businesses, Rex's love of Rynna's grandma's pies - only served to solidify the fact they were meant to be. The element of suspense and the tension it wrought was very well done and again, I appreciated how ALJ had it all tied together.
• Romance
  Although there was a serious attraction, Rex fought it fiercely. That bothered me at first but I eventually understood her reasons and as I said, watching these two fall was beautiful. The fact that Frankie Lee was part of the equation only made the romance that much sweeter because the way Rynna fell for her too illustrated the kind of person she was and made me root for them all the harder.
• Narration
  Andi Arndt and Zachary Webber are a dream team! (a theme lately) I freaking loved their delivery on all counts. The pace was perfect, they conveyed every single emotion, their voices for each character - especially Webber's voice for Frankie Lee - were distinct and consistent, and overall it was an utterly entertaining listen! So much so that I'm getting every ALJ book these two narrate.

Show Me the Way was not only a well-written story but also an aural delight!

Audio Review ~ Beautiful Mistake ~ Vi Keeland #AudioChallenge #ShelfLove

Beautiful Mistake by Vi Keeland
Narrated by: Andi Arndt and Sebastian York
Release Date: July 20, 2017
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: Purchased on Audible
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #AudioChallenge, #ShelfLove
Goodreads

Synopsis
The first time I met Caine West was in a bar.
He noticed me looking his way and mistakenly read my scowling as checking him out.
When he attempted to talk to me, I set him straight - telling him what I thought of his lying, cheating, egomaniacal ass.
You see, the gorgeous jerk had wined and dined my best friend--smooth talking her into his bed, all along failing to mention that he was married.
He deserved every bit of my tongue-lashing and more for what he'd done.
Especially when that lazy smile graced his perfect face in response to my rant.
Only it turned out, the man I'd just told off wasn't the right guy.
Oops. My mistake.
Embarrassed, I slunk out without an apology.
I was never going to see the handsome stranger again anyway, right?
That's what I thought...until I walked into class the next morning.
Well, hello Professor West, I'm your new teaching assistant.
I'll be working under you...figuratively speaking.
Although the literal interpretation might not be such a bad thing - working under Professor West.
This is going to be interesting...

I swear VKeeland rocks at delivering the best "meets". Caine and Rachel's first meet had me guffawing and giggle-snorting...loudly. But while the story did have its comic moments, it was serious as well. And so, so satisfying.

Highlights:

• Rachel and Caine
  Rachel is a strong and independent woman who's also smart and loyal. She also often lets whatever pops into her head fly out of her mouth and that made for some humorous interactions between her and Caine. Caine is a bit older and maybe more sophisticated but that's questionable at times. He's a professor...she's his TA...and the sexual tension between these two is almost suffocating. As they get to know each other though, they realize their connection is more than chemistry. Character growth is something I truly appreciate and while Caine does the most - and it was amazing to watch - they both learn to let go of the past that's influenced and haunted them in order to move forward.
• Plot
  VKeeland did an incredible job of weaving together the past and present threads, slowly disseminating pertinent facts and events so that we understood how it all tied together and how things affected both Rachel and Caine. I also liked how VKeeland incorporated music into the story.
• Romance
  There was no question about whether or not they'd fall but being witness to it was an experience. Caine never saw it coming, I don't think, feeling he had his walls strongly erected. Realizing who Rachel was to him threw him for a loop but luckily he pulled his head out before it was too late.
• Narration
  Seriously, Arndt and York are a dream team here. They keep the pace perfect, keep the voices distinct, and deliver on ALL the feels. They're two of my favorites.

Audio Review ~ Rule's Bride ~ Kat Martin #AudioChallenge #ShelfLove

Rule's Bride by Kat Martin
Brides Trilogy #3
Narrated by: Anna Parker-Naples
Release Date: May 23, 2017
Genre: Adult, Historical Romance
Source: I received a complimentary copy from Tantor Audio. This did not affect my rating and my review is voluntarily provided. 
Rating: 3.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #AudioChallenge, #ShelfLove
Goodreads

Synopsis
After their strategic "marriage of commerce" three years ago, Rule quite forgot about Violet Griffin, the teenage heiress to a Boston manufacturing fortune. He simply spoke his vows, took over her father's business, and returned to England to resume his usual pursuits: high-priced wine, high-stakes gambling, and highborn women. Yet when Violet, now a sophisticated woman, unexpectedly appears at Rule's London town house, husbandly duties no longer seem so odious - he can't wait to take his stunning bride to their marriage bed. Violet, however, is not so easily led: She has her own ideas and is seeking an annulment to marry another. But as Rule attempts to win her over, someone else is determined to frame him for murder and keep him out of the way for good...

While there were a few things that didn't work for me quite as well in this final installment, I did enjoy Rule and Violet's story.

Highlights:

• Character Development - Rule & Violet
  One common trait in all the Dewar brothers has been their loyalty to their family. Each brother made a promise to the father on his deathbed and each kept it. I thought it was interesting the way KMartin had Rule keep his promise and I appreciated that although he'd made some questionable choices, Rule did prove himself as loyal, honorable, and able to love. I've enjoyed the independent streak in all the heroines of this trilogy and Violet was nothing if not independent. Being American gave her a little leeway - very little - but she was smart and very determined. I admired her commitment to her values and her father's legacy.
• Plot & Sub-plots
  Even though there were elements in the sub-plots that didn't work for me on the whole - specifically the reason behind Rule's determination not to fall in love and the angst between Caroline and Luke - the plots and sub-plots wove together well to create a compelling story. I think had Rule's reasoning for avoiding love been explored more thoroughly, it would have had more of an impact on his character. I feel that same of Caroline's and Luke's characters. If they'd been developed a bit more, they'd have had more depth. Because they lacked some depth, I felt the tension felt more contrived that genuine. I did appreciate the inclusion of the impending Civil War in America and how KMartin wove that element in. I also liked how she created the suspense even though I did figure out a portion of the mystery and the resolutions felt a bit too tidy.
• Romance
  Witnessing Rule work at winning over Violet was fun. Although she realized she'd given her heart to him early on, she still didn't make things easy for him. She wanted love and she taught Rule how to love - that he had the capacity for it despite his belief otherwise. I also delighted in watching Rule fall without ever realizing that was what was happening. KMartin once again gave us a secondary romance - this time between Violet's cousin, Caroline, and Rule's best friend, Luke. Neither felt they wanted marriage but after circumstances demand it, their fall was angsty yet heartwarming.
• Narration
  As I've mentioned previously, Anna Parker-Naples' range for male voices is a little limited and I continued to notice this in Rule's Bride. She also struggled with her American accents. However, her ability to do a range of British accents is amazing and even though those few things niggled at me, I still found her narration - her pacing, and her ability to convey the emotion required - to be brilliant.

My introduction to KMartin and Anna Parker-Naples was a pleasure. I'll be on the hunt for more from them both.

Audio Review ~ Reese's Bride ~ Kat Martin #AudioChallenge #ShelfLove

Reese's Bride by Kat Martin
Brides Trilogy #2
Narrated by: Anna Parker-Naples
Release Date: March 28, 2017
Genre: Adult, Historical Romance
Source: I received a complimentary copy from Tantor Audio. This did not affect my rating and my review is voluntarily provided. 
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #AudioChallenge, #ShelfLove
Goodreads

Synopsis
Years ago, love-struck Reese departed his home at Briarwood with a promise from raven-haired Elizabeth Clemens that she would make a life with him upon his return. But mere months later, she married the Earl of Aldridge, attaining wealth and status Reese could never match. Memories of that betrayal make his homecoming far more bitter than sweet. Seeing Elizabeth on his doorstep dressed in widow's garb twists the knife even deeper. But fear for her young son's safety has overcome her pride: She begs Reese for protection from those who would see the boy dead to possess his fortune. He agrees to an uneasy alliance, sensing Elizabeth still harbors deep secrets - and Reese knows that he's placing himself in danger...of losing his heart all over again.

KMartin continues to impress me with her storytelling skills. I'm currently listening to book #3 in the trilogy. :)

Highlights:

• Favorite Trope
  Second chance romances is one of my most favorite romance tropes and Reese and Elizabeth's second chance, while hard earned, was deserved and sweet. There were a lot of emotions surrounding the reasons they were kept apart but the primary emotion - love - remained strong.
• Plot & Sub-plots
  The element that brings Reese and Elizabeth back together provided for tension and suspense but one of the things I find I enjoy about KMartin is her ability to weave in sub-plots that keep me riveted without detracting from the main plot. One of the subplots incorporated a character from Royal's story as well as introducing a new character and I liked how KMartin wove these two characters together.
• Romance
  Not only do we get to see Reese and Elizabeth work their way back to each other but KMartin gives us a secondary romance as well and in this case it was also a second chance of sorts so I was doubly delighted.
• Characters
  KMartin delivers a well-drawn cast of characters and her cast is rather large so that is impressive. From Reese and his brothers down to the security men and even the villain, she has me intrigued by, cheering for, and despising her characters as warranted. That many characters appeared in both Reese's and Royal's stories (and hopefully Rule's) is a bonus since I got a little attached. :)
• Narration
  Anna Parker-Naples once again had me admiring her delivery. She's able to keep the pacing perfect, evoke all the emotions, as well as keep me engaged. She does have a slight issue with male voices but overall her voices and accents bring to life this large cast.

Audio Review ~ Royal's Bride ~ Kat Martin #AudioChallenge #ShelfLove

Royal's Bride by Kat Martin
Brides Trilogy #1
Narrated by: Anna Parker-Naples
Release Date: February 28, 2017
Genre: Adult, Historical Romance
Source: I received a complimentary copy from Tantor Audio. This did not affect my rating and my review is voluntarily provided. 
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #AudioChallenge, #ShelfLove
Goodreads

Synopsis
Though he is a tilted nobleman, Royal Dewar is singularly unlucky...forced to choose between his soul mate and his salvation.

After years abroad, Royal has returned to Bransford Castle to find his father dying and the family treasury nearly empty. Then the old duke wrests a final promise from his guilt-ridden son: that Royal will marry heiress Jocelyn Caulfield and restore the estate to its former glory. However, it is not his finacee who quickens Royal's pulse, but rather her beautiful cousin Lily Moran.

Penniless Lily knows that nothing can come of their undeniable attraction - but there is a way she can help Royal. Enlisting some questionable characters from her past, Lily concocts an elaborate ruse to recover some of the Bransford fortune from a notorious confidence artist. As the dangerous scheme unfolds, Lily and Royal are thrown together in pursuit of the very thing - money - that keeps them apart...

This was my first Kat Martin book and I'm congratulating myself on the choice as well as for having the foresight to request the entire trilogy. =) Royal's Bride deftly dealt with the social customs, norms, and mores of the day while also delivering a riveting story inhabited by a colorful and well-developed cast of characters. I'm eager to start #2, Reese's Bride. (edit: I'm halfway through!)

Highlights:

• Character Development
  KMartin does an incredible job at fleshing out not only the MC's - Royal and Lily - but also an all-star cast who is also deeply involved in the plot. They are all good, loyal, and kind people and I'm hoping they'll be a part of the future installments.
• Plot
  The plot made the story both exciting and suspenseful. Royal and Lily set about trying to solve the mystery of the loss of the Dewar fortune. Would they figure it out? Could they refrain from falling more deeply for one another while they try? Should Royal follow his heart or his head? I had some thoughts on what had happened to Royal's family's money but I was entirely wrong on all counts. I certainly enjoyed following Royal and Lily as they solved the mystery and set about recovering the money.
• Romance
  The romance between Royal and Lily (and the romance between some side characters) was sweet and genuine. I could feel the affection between Royal and Lily - knew fighting it was hopeless. But then Lily was not set with the money Royal needed. I think watching Royal fight himself was the most entertaining.
• Narration
  Anna Parker-Naples did well in keeping the pacing just right and conveying the emotions of the story. Her male voices gave her a bit of a problem but the book does have a rather large male cast. Overall, I enjoyed her delivery.

Audio Review ~ Under Her Skin ~ Adriana Anders #AudioChallenge

Under Her Skin by Adriana Anders
Blank Canvas #1
Narrated by: Wendy Tremont King
Release Date: May 30, 2017
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: I received a complimentary copy from Tantor Audio. This did not affect my rating and my review is voluntarily provided. 
Rating: 3.5-4 Bookworms
Challenges: #AudioChallenge
Goodreads

Synopsis
Ivan thought the world was through giving him second chances. Who'd want a rough ex-con with a savior complex and a bad habit of bringing home helpless strays? Everyone in Blackwood, Virginia, knew he wasn't good enough for the fine things in life; they knew he was too damaged to save. He just needed to keep his head down, work himself to the bone, and pretend he was content with the lot he was given. Until she came into his life. Until she changed everything. Until he realized he would do anything, fight anyone, tear the world apart if it meant saving her. Contains mature themes.

Under Her Skin was a moving story with many stories woven in. It had a nice cast of characters with the MCs, Uma and Ivan, being the center. The narration was okay but I'm not certain I wouldn't have enjoyed the story more having read it rather than listened.

The story revolves around Uma, who is on the run from an abusive ex, and Ivan, who can't seem to escape the perceptions his looks give people. The way Anders explored the perceptions and prejudices people have toward others - Uma and Ivan specifically - how Uma and Ivan perceive themselves and how they build trust between each other and are able to eventually look past their outward appearances was brilliant. The way she filled in their backstories allowing us to see the events that shaped who they are as well as meeting some of those who helped in that shaping - both good and bad - gave Uma and Ivan depth and complexity. The way in which they meet and seeing how they are in daily life - the kindness and compassion they show others despite how they've been treated and the things they've endured - only added to that depth and complexity. Anders also have us a strong supporting cast - particularly Ms. Lloyd. She provided some comic relief with her stubbornness and her crabbiness. 

So the story was strong. I did feel the ending was a bit rushed and too tidy. There was quite a buildup to the "showdown" and it culminated in much less of an explosion than I'd been anticipating.

As for the narration, Tremont King did fine with the voices although her range for male voices was a little lacking. What bothered me was her delivery which was so very slow. It mt made the pacing slow and that made it more challenging to stay engaged. I have the next 2 in the series and I'm thinking I might listen at a faster speed to see if that makes a difference.

Audio/New Release Review ~ Fearless in Texas ~ Kari Lynn Dell #AudioChallenge #2018NewRelease

Fearless in Texas by Kari Lynn Dell
Texas Rodeo #4
Narrated by: Johanna Parker
Release Date: April 3, 2018
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: I received a complimentary copy from Tantor Audio and I also received an eARC from the publisher via Netgalley. This did not affect my rating and my review is voluntarily provided. 
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #2018NewRelease, #AudioChallenge
Goodreads

Synopsis
After her life comes crashing down, Melanie Brookman is determined to claw her way back up again - and this time, she won't make the same mistakes twice. So when her friend sends Wyatt Darrington to help, Melanie keeps him at arm's length. He's exactly the sort of trouble she doesn't need. Wyatt has the perfect distraction for Melanie: rescue his failing bar. She reluctantly agrees and together they hit the road. As they spend more time with one another, undeniable attraction grows. But Wyatt knows that if she ever found out his closely guarded secret, any chance at happily ever after would be left in the dust...

In my review of Tougher in Texas, I said this about waiting for Fearless in Texas: 

"...since the stories keep getting more entertaining, I *know* it'll be worth the wait."  

And guess what? Dell DID NOT DISAPPOINT! Seriously, this series just gets better and better! I think I'm suffering from a book hangover. Dell delivered another compelling story with characters that are brilliantly brought to life. I'm chomping at the bit for the next installment!

Highlights:

• Character Development
  Dell excels here and this might be her best yet in this department. (it's a toss up between Melanie/Wyatt and Shawnee/Cole) With Melanie, we have this extremely intuitive gal who makes an art out of reading people. But she isn't so good at turning that talent on herself. With a little help, she does and she isn't all that fired up at what she sees. She does become introspective whenever she's sorting things out so to see her use that introspection on herself, be along with her as she decides on what to change and how to change it and then watch her execute was inspiring. In Wyatt, we have a man who yearns for a connection...a community...a family. Learning his backstory made his behavior and his actions understandable. But it saddened me that despite having the community  and family he longed for with Joe and Violet, the Jacobs family, and the rodeo, he still felt like an outsider. Witnessing Melanie give him his heart's desire was...well, heartwarming.
• Secondary Characters & Side Plots
  Dell has crafted quite a colorful cast and they along with the side plots add depth and complexity to the story. They also make me debate with myself over who I hope to see in the next installment. From Louie and Gordon, Helen and Rowdy, Grace...gosh! There's so many wonderfully drawn characters and then I get to spend time with some whom I've already met as well. *sigh* I love them all.
• Setting
  Up to this point, this series has spent most of its time in West Texas and as I've said, Dell captures life in West Texas well. This installment, due to Melanie's need to "get the hell out of Dodge", was spent in and around Pendleton, Oregon. What are the odds Dell would pick another place I'm familiar with? And she nailed the description of the town and the landscape. She's really about to put you there and I love that. Also, the rodeo took a bit of a back seat here but it still had its place and we get to spend time with the horses, cows, and rope. =)
• Thought-provoking
  I mentioned this in my review of Tougher in Texas but this I'm mentioning it again because it's worth saying. The Texas Rodeo series is romance but the romance is secondary to the story, in my opinion. I like that Dell has her characters take deeper looks at themselves, consider their mistakes and learn from them, figure out what they want in life and how to go about making that happen. And a common theme seems to be never, ever denying yourself love.

I suppose Fearless in Texas had a little different tone since the rodeo wasn't front and center but it was every bit as riveting as its predecessors. Dell wove together a cast of characters I couldn't help by love with a story that kept me captivated. I can't thank Anna enough for turning me on to Dell!

Parker continues impressing me with her ability to keep the pace just right and deliver on all the emotions. And for the most part, she keeps her voices distinct. She's become a favorite narrator of mine, honestly. And I'm once again anxious for the next book in the series!

Audio Review ~ Dark Desires After Dusk ~ Kresley Cole #AudioChallenge #ShelfLove #TakeControl

Dark Desires After Dusk by Kresley Cole
Immortals After Dark #6
Narrated by: Robert Petkoff
Release Date: February 5, 2013
Genre: Adult, Paranormal Romance
Source: Purchased on Audible
Rating: 4 Bookworms
Challenges: #AudioChallenge, #ShelfLove, #TakeControl, #TravelingtoTerminus
Goodreads

Synopsis
A seductive beauty he can never have. Yet can't resist...
Cadeon Woede will stop at nothing to atone for the one wrong that will haunt him forever. But once he secures the key to his redemption, the halfling Holly Ashwin, Cade finds that the woman he thought he could use for his own ends and then forget haunts him as much as his past.

A tormented warrior she should fear, but can't deny...
Raised as a human, Holly never knew that some frightening legends are real until she encounters a brutal demon who inexplicably guards her like a treasure. Thrust into a sensual new world of myth and power, with him as her protector, she begins to crave the demon's wicked touch.

Surrender to dark desires...
Yet just when he earns Holly's trust, will Cade be forced to betray the only woman who can sate his wildest needs--and claim his heart?

It's been a little while since I spent time in the Immortals After Dark world. I've missed it! Dark Desires After Dusk revolves around Cadeon and Holly and the dangers they face while dealing with Holly's rold in a prophecy about the Accession and her being Cadeon's Fated.

Highlights

• Cadeon and Holly
  I've always enjoyed Cadeon the Kingmaker - he's snarky and funny - but getting his whole story helped me understand how he came to be the man...er, demon - he is. And he may be a mercenary but there's so much more to him that he lets on. Holly made me smile. She's this gorgeous math geek who has all these OCD tendencies but once she realizes why she is the way she is - at least in some ways - it's fun to watch her embrace her new self.
• Pacing/Suspense
  The story kept me listening as often as I could with all its adrenaline pumping action. I had to know what was going to happen next, what new hurdle Cadeon and Holly would have to scale, how Cadeon would get himself and Holly out of their latest predicament.
• Humor
  Cadeon provided humor through his reactions to situations he and Holly would find themselves in. Holly was funny at times as well but Nyx - Holly's aunt - that Valkyrie had me rolling with laughter.
• Robert Petkoff
  His narration - the voices and accents for each character which he somehow manages to keep consistent throughout the series - as well as his inflection and pacing...he's just a master! He sets the mood, convey the emotion, makes me laugh as well as gasp. He's definitely one of my all-time favorite narrators!

Dark Desires After Dusk was a more than satisfying installment in the series and I'm eager for the next one!

Review ~ Jack & Coke ~ Lani Lynn Vale #AudioChallenge #TakeControl

Jack & Coke by Lani Lynn Vale
Uncertain Saints #2
Narrated by: Mason Lloyd and Kendall Taylor
Release Date: October 11, 2016
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: I received a complimentary copy from Tantor Audio. This did not affect my rating and my review is voluntarily provided. 
Rating: 3 Bookworms
Challenges: #AudioChallenge, #ShelfLove, #TakeControl
Goodreads

Synopsis
Lies

Mig's wife is a bitch.

How else do you describe a woman that lies, cheats and steals to get what she wants?

That's exactly what happens when she traps him into a marriage he wants nothing to do with, saddling him with a kid that he knows doesn't deserve to be in a world like his.

He's doing a pretty bang-up job at ignoring everything but his responsibilities as a DEA officer and a member of The Uncertain Saints MC.

Deceit

Annie teaches Mig that not every woman is out to get him.

Her love for Mig stretches past what's appropriate for two friends, and Annie soon straddles that invisible boundary between appropriate and inappropriate.

Annie's not a cheater, though.

When she tries to say goodbye, Mig won't let her leave, and soon the tiny town of Uncertain blows up with the news of Annie and Mig's innocent friendship.

Betrayal

Matters of the heart are foreign to Mig, and it takes Annie being gutted for him to see the wrong he's done.

He waits too long, though, and Annie's heart is broken.

She wants it all, or she wants nothing. She can't take anymore half-hearted attempts at being just friends.

The heart wants what it wants, and it doesn't take long for Mig to realize that.

But just when Mig finally has it all in the palm of his hand, his life is ripped to shreds by a new player in the game, and it takes all of Annie's love and devotion, as well as help from the men of The Uncertain Saints MC, to put Mig back together again.

Jack & Coke pulled me in a bit quicker than its predecessor and seemed to have resolved some of the editing issues that took away from my enjoyment of Whiskey Neat. While I still felt some of the plot threads were too over-the-top, and the storyline a bit formulaic, I did like Mig and Annie's story. There were elements that kept me engaged - mostly the suspense part because I wanted to know who was behind things and how it would work out. And I liked Mig and Annie - they were decent people who both worked to help others although through vastly different means. I liked meeting/spending more time with some of the other characters. However, as I was writing this review and thinking about the story I realized these things:

• the story is predictable - following a similar outline to the first book
• the characters were a bit morally questionable and suffered traumas and tragedies that were too far-fetched for me
• the plot had promise but also had quite a few elements that were too over-the-top

Does this all add up to a bad story? No. It had its moments. But I think the narrators are the best part. Mason Lloyd and Kendall Taylor do a stellar job with what they have to work with and that is admirable.

I have two more from this series in audio but I don't know if I'll continue. I'm definitely going to take a break though.

As an aside, I saw quite a few people were upset by a certain plot element...it is not described/detailed in the story, just stated. It didn't bother me and was explained in a way that made sense and developed another part of the plot. But just so you know - date rape drugs/date rape (perpetrated by a female) is a part of the story.