Audio Review ~ Revelation ~ Randi Cooley Wilson

Revelation by Randi Cooley Wilson
The Revelation Series #1
Narrated by: Jorjeana Marie
Release Date: January 5, 2016 (audio)
Genre: New Adult, Paranormal Romance
Source: Tantor Media audio CD, for review in exchange for an honest opinion
Rating: 2 Bookworms
Challenges: #2016NewRelease, #COYER B2B
Goodreads

Synopsis
Eve Collins starts her freshman year at college blissfully unaware that one revelation will challenge everything she's believed to be true about her family, life, and future, and right in the midst of it all is Asher St. Michael. Mysterious and aloof, Asher is appointed to protect Eve at all costs. Bound by his oath of loyalty to mankind, loving her is forbidden. Dark and enigmatic, Gage Gallagher may be even more dangerous to Eve than the demonic army that hunts her. Caught in the middle of a centuries-old war, Eve must choose sides knowing that the wrong choice will cost more than just her life. Can Asher and Eve fulfill their destinies, or will their love destroy everything?

This is rather a hard review for me to write. I requested Revelation for review in audio because the synopsis intrigued me and the book had gotten great reviews. Unfortunately, it didn't work all that well for me. I'm going to break it down into what worked and what didn't work for ease in disseminating my thoughts and feelings. Here goes...

Worked (sort of)

• The premise - I'm a fan of angel vs demon, heaven vs hell stories. That one girl was the key in the upcoming battle - the one who might save the world - I was intrigued to say the least
• The worldbuilding - I enjoyed the ways in which Cooley Wilson used archangels, demons, fae, and GARGOYLES to inhabit the story and I liked the abilities being explored. In some ways they were familiar, but in others she made them unique.

Didn't Work

• The writing - I appreciate detail and I adore words but this was a cacophony of description. A smirk is a smirk - no further description needed. If a character is responding snarkily, the dialog should be sufficient in conveying that - I don't need to be told.
• The MC's inner dialog - mostly her inner exclamations got irritating
• The reasons behind the forbidden romance didn't make sense to me. If you feel strongly for someone, doesn't that increase your desire to keep them safe?
• The narrator - she couldn't hold an accent. I was never quite sure who was speaking because of this. It was distracting and took me right out of the story.
• The MC behaved immaturely quite often. I understood she was only 18 but she went from seeming relatively mature to having a tantrum and that was distracting.
• Inconsistencies - along with the inconsistent behavior of the heroine, the hero was also inconsistent (I can't stay away...I *must* stay away), drinking but the characters are only 18...

I think this may be a case where I'd have enjoyed the story a little more had I read it rather than listened. I think the flaws were magnified in audio. I'm not sure I'll continue the series. But again, this book has many rave reviews so while it didn't work for me, it might work for you.

Review ~ Nowhere Ranch ~ Heidi Cullinan

Nowhere Ranch by Heidi Cullinan
Release Date: March 3, 2015
Genre: Adult, M/M Contemporary Romance
Source: Gift from Robyn
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #COYER B2B, #ShelfLove
Goodreads

Synopsis
Love will grow through the cracks you leave open.

Ranch hand Roe Davis absolutely never mixes business with pleasure--until he runs into his boss, Travis Loving, at the only gay bar within two hundred miles.

Getting involved with the ranch owner is a bad idea, but Roe's and Travis's bedroom kinks line up against one another like a pair of custom-but rails. As long as they're both clear this is sex on the side, no relationship, no interfering with the job, they could make it work.

Shut out by his family years ago, Roe survived by steadfastly refusing to settle into so much as a post office box. As his affair with Travis grows into more than just sex, Roe's past catches up with him, threatening the thin ray of happiness he's found, reminding him it's well past time he went on his way.

But even a loner gets lonely, and at this point, there's nowhere left to run. The shame and sorrow of what he's lost will stay with Roe wherever he goes--until he's ready to let love lead him home.

Nowhere Ranch is one of the most beautiful love stories I've read. It was by turns heartbreaking and heartwarming. It's a story of acceptance and the healing power of love.

Roe Davis is a man on the run. Having been kicked out of his home and shunned by his family for his sexual preferences, he's been running from place to place ever since. Then he lands at Nowhere Ranch. He enjoys the work and the peace. But when he runs into his boss at the only gay bar in a 3 hour radius, things get a little weird.

Nowhere Ranch is narrated by Roe as he tells his story of meeting Travis, making friends for the first time in his life, and finally finding a home full of love. The prose is - stark is how I think I'd describe it. Neither Roe nor Travis are big talkers. Their actions and few words say so much though. Roe has always felt dirty, unworthy of love in any form. So seeing Travis and the others at Nowhere Ranch love him and seeing Roe work at accepting it was incredibly satisfying.

Travis is an amazing man. Quiet but loyal and loving. He really did work at giving Roe everything he needed. Love, stability, support - all the things you desire from a significant other, friend and family. And then there's Haley. Oh my was she full of piss and vinegar. I adored every second with her - especially when she told off one of Roe's family members and her pastor. And while I agreed with Roe that you can't fight hate with hate, I appreciated her rant all the same.

Nowhere Ranch is not a read for everyone. There are some fairly graphic love scenes - with interesting kinks - and while they did serve to move the story forward - proving trust - they aren't going to be for everyone. But overall, I'm so pleased with my introduction to Cullinan. She crafted a lovely story that will break your heart and then mend it and she just might restore a little of your faith in humanity.

Review ~ Facade ~ Nyrae Dawn

Facade by Nyrae Dawn
Games #2
Release Date: July 2, 2013
Genre: New Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: eARC via Netgalley
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #BloggerShame, #COYER B2B, #ShelfLove
Goodreads

Synopsis
Can love save them?

After her father commits a crime that shatters her family, eighteen-year-old Delaney Cross is tired of pretending everything is all right. Packing up her car, she sets out to find the people her father hurt. Her search leads her to places she's never been--and into the arms of Adrian Westfall.

To the outside world, Adrian is a sexy, charming ladies' man. But his playboy persona is just an act. Secretly his soul is tortured by a memory too painful to share. Only Delaney seems to see through his facade to the real man underneath. And for the first time in his life, Adrian feels he can begin to open up about his past.

Together, Adrian and Delaney share a passionate love they never expected to find. Yet both still harbor their own secrets. When the dark truth is finally revealed, will it bring them closer together--or tear them apart forever?

Why, why, why?!? *shakes fist at sky* Why did I wait so long to read this book? I'm kicking myself, I can tell you that. I've only read a few books from Ms. Dawn but I can say with certainty that she knows how to bring the feels along with a very compelling story.

*Tissue Alert* You'll need a few for this book. 

Delaney and Adrian are two damaged souls linked together by tragedy. When they come into each others' lives, there is this draw between them. They each seem to really see the other - not those things they show everyone else...no, they each see through the masks they wear, even if they don't know all the secrets they're each hiding from one another.

Delaney is a sweet soul. She's optimistic - maybe even idealistic despite all the's seen and endured. She only wants to help everyone heal - to make everything better. She takes on the sins of others, she takes punishment she doesn't deserve, in order to try to piece back together the family she loves. Her good intentions, though, didn't prepare her for the feelings Adrian would incite.

Adrian really broke my heart - even if I could relate to Delaney's struggles on a more personal level. Adrian is experiencing so much pain and grief - he's drowning in it. To stay afloat, he dawns this devil-may-care mask, smokes pot, drinks, loses himself in girls. Until Delaney, the only positive in his life has been his best friend, Colt.

Ms. Dawn deftly conveyed Delaney's and Adrian's emotional states, both before and after they met. I found myself hoping against hope things would work out for them - even though I knew something would have to give. Their attraction and burgeoning feelings for one another - I felt it all, almost viscerally. And the twists Ms. Dawn tossed in threw me for a loop. I was bawling my eyes out several times. However, I was happy with how things wrapped up.

I'm going to be making a concerted effort to read all the other books  I own from Ms. Dawn. She's quickly moved onto my favorite authors list with her ability to create a moving story with characters I adore, and her ability to evoke a huge range of emotions.

Review ~ Play With Me ~ Anna Katmore

Play With Me by Anna Katmore
Grover Beach Team #1
Release Date: December 8, 2013
Genre: YA Contemporary Romance
Source: Kindle Freebie
Rating: 4 Bookworms
Challenges: #COYER B2B, #ShelfLove, #TakeControlTBR
Goodreads

Synopsis
What is you had to do the one thing you hated most to get the guy you loved to notice you?

Ryan Hunter's parties are legend. And tonight she's going to be there.

Lisa Matthews anticipates the return of her best friend and only love since kindergarten from soccer camp. But when Tony finally shows up, his mind is more focused on another girl. And worse, she's a soccer player. Fighting for the attention Lisa craves, she's just a hairbreadth away from making a very stupid decision. But when extraordinary measures, she's prepared to play ball to get her man.

The tryouts are hell, the first match ends bloody, and the morning after the selection party she wakes up in the worst place possible--in the arms of the captain of the soccer team. The hottest guy in school...Ryan Hunter.

I grabbed Play With Me after reading Naomi's review of it, and since it was a freebie. I've been reading some pretty heavy things lately and this light and sweet YA contemporary was the perfect palate cleanser.

Lisa Matthews has been in love with her best friend, Tony Mitchell, since forever. She's just biding her time until he figures out he feels the same. But when Tony returns from summer soccer camp, something has changed. Determined to draw his eye, Lisa goes out for the soccer team and in the process, realizes maybe she didn't know what she wanted.

This was a quick read but Ms. Katmore was able to flesh out the characters really well and I adored the storyline. Lisa figuring out a few things about herself was a pleasure. They friendship between her and Tony felt genuine and even if Tony's actions and reactions to certain events made me want to smack him, they were realistic for a teenage boy. Ryan Hunter - the misunderstood captain of the soccer team - was awesome and totally swoon-worthy! He saw an opportunity to achieve his own goal and he took it. Gotta admire that! ;) I enjoyed getting to know him as Lisa did. And I really enjoyed how everything concluded. I will absolutely be continuing this series.

Review ~ A Different Blue ~ Amy Harmon #2016HW

A Different Blue by Amy Harmon
Release Date: March 29, 2013
Genre: New Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: 99 Cent Purchase on Nook
Rating: 5 Bookworms
Challenges: #2016HW, #COYER B2B, #ShelfLove
Goodreads

Synopsis
Blue Echohawk doesn't know who she is. She doesn't know her real name or when she was born. Abandoned at two and raised by a drifter, she didn't attend school until she was ten years old. At nineteen, when most kids her age are attending college or moving on with their life, she is just a senior in high school. With no mother, no father, no faith, and no future, Blue Echohawk is a difficult student, to say the least. Tough, hard and overtly sexy, she is the complete opposite of the young British teacher who decides he is up to the challenge, and takes the troublemaker under his wing.

This is the story of a nobody who becomes somebody. It is the story of an unlikely friendship, where hope fosters healing and redemption becomes love. But falling in love can be hard when you don't know who you are. Falling in love with someone who knows exactly who they are and exactly why they can't love you back might be impossible.

A Different Blue is a unique story both in its content and in its telling. It explores the elements and experiences we, as humans, perceive as the building blocks of our identity. And it makes you think about whether or not those things really play a part in creating who we are.

"What we believe affects our choices, our actions, and subsequently, our lives."..."What if what you believe about yourself or about your life is simply a myth that is holding you back?"  -Wilson 

Blue Echohawk knows few things about herself. She knows shes striking in looks and that she's talented at wood carving. She knows who raised her. But she doesn't know who she really is - her real name, her real birthday, her real parents. And so she's floating through life, wanting answers, feeling discarded, unwanted...unloved.

"Once upon a time...there was a little blackbird, pushed from the nest. Unwanted. Discarded."  -Blue

Until Darcy Wilson arrives as Blue's World History teacher. (don't worry - it's not that kind of story) He makes Blue look at things - her life, in particular - from a different perspective. They bth end up evaluating things in their lives and end up finding out so much about themselves.

Blue is such a selfless young woman. Of course, the reason behind that selflessness is her feeling of unworthiness. She's lived a highly unconventional life but there was a time when she felt safe and loved. Blue begins a search - I'm not even sure she knew what she was searching for. And sometimes when you find those answers, you have to ask yourself if those answers are worth it.

Wilson - what everyone calls him since his name is a bit embarrassing - is a compassionate guy. He sees something in Blue and he sets out to nurture it. As an aside, I must mention how much I admire his teaching methods - using literature to teach history. Love. While trying to pull Blue out of her shell, both he and Blue find kindred spirits in each other.

A Different Blue tugged at my heartstrings. I laughed and I cried. Blue has suffered - both in her upbringing and her lack of knowledge in who she is. The friendship that blossoms between Blue and Wilson was beautiful to watch. Although I understood his rationale, I did want to box Wilson's ears at times for his actions. But in the end he helped Blue molt and spread her wings - helped her realize she was strong enough to fly - and he was the wind beneath her wings.

There's really nothing A Different Blue I didn't love. I might have choked on Wilson's action or words at time and I might have felt Blue behaved or reacted impulsively - but it all rang true with their personalities and the story. My only regret is having waited so long to read it.

Review ~ Becoming Alpha ~ Aileen Erin

Becoming Alpha by Aileen Erin
Alpha Girl #1
Release Date: December 17, 2013
Genre: YA, Paranormal Romance, Fantasy
Source: Freebie
Rating: 4 Bookworms
Challenges: #COYER B2B, #ShelfLove
Goodreads

Synopsis
Tessa McCaide has a unique talent for getting into trouble. Then again, it isn't easy for a girl with visions to ignore what she sees. Luckily Tessa and her family are leaving California and moving halfway across the country, giving her the perfect opportunity to leave her reputation as "Freaky Tessa" behind.

But Tessa doesn't realize that kissing the wrong guy in her new Texas town could land her in far more trouble than she ever imagined. Like being forced to attend St. Ailbe's Academy, a secret boarding school for werewolves.

Even if the wrong guy did accidentally turn her into one of "them" and doom her to attending the weirdest high school eve, Tessa can't help her growing attraction to the mysterious Dastien Laurent.

When vampires attack St. Ailbe's and her visions pinpoint an enemy in their midst, Tessa realizes that boy drama and her newfound canine tendencies might just be the least of her problems.

Oh how I wish I could binge on this series right now! I'm thrilled I gave this story a go. It hooked me right from the beginning and I devoured it in one day!

Tessa, a recent transplant to Texas, is about to start her senior year. She has issues making friends but is trying to be optimistic. See, Tessa can't touch anyone or most anything - even the slightest brush - without getting visions. She's never even had a boyfriend because what girl wants to know, in vivid detail, the inner workings of a teenage boy's mind? When she first 'meets' Dastien, it's altogether different. And then some things happen and Tessa finds herself attending yet another new school - and this one has an exclusive student body.

That's really all I want to say about what happens in the book because I think it'll work best if it's experienced. As I said, I devoured this story. It has a unique setup and I really liked Tessa as a heroine. She's tough and resilient. I liked her relationship with her family. Her parents and her brother, Axel, are loving, protective, and supportive. And I also liked how things were set up at St. Ailde's. It was fascinating learning about the world Tessa now inhabits right alongside her. And watching as she grows more confident in herself and her abilities, as she's working at solving a mystery and then dealing with the fallout over solving it was exciting. I liked how Erin wove in more adult issues with some typical teenage ones - it gave the story a more mature tone.

My only gripe is that despite that mature tone, there is some angst caused by something that could have been solved with better communication. However, I really adored this story and I'm sorry I can't binge on this series right away. I do plan on using some holiday loot on the rest of the series and I will get caught up in it soon!

New Release Review ~ With Ties That Bind ~ Trisha Wolfe

With Ties That Bind by Trisha Wolfe
A Broken Bonds Novel #1
Release Date: February 29, 2016
Genre: Adult, Romantic Suspense, Dark Romance
Source: I  received an eARC from the author in exchange for an honest review. I also purchased my own copy.
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #COYER B2B, #NewRelease2016
Goodreads

Synopsis
This series is a spinoff of the Broken Bonds serial which must be read prior to beginning this first book. Contains spoilers to the Broken Bonds serial.

Detective Ethan Quinn has questions. The Arlington Slasher case is closed, the UNSUB no longer a threat--but Quinn can't quiet the suspicion he harbors towards his partner and the young, attractive M.E. Not only does he loathe his uncertainty, he's torn between doing his job and protecting his team.

But burying himself in cases no longer works. He's restless. On edge. And tired of fighting his compulsions. Quinn has always viewed the law in black and white. Only now his world is swirling with a murky gray that threatens to devour him.

When lead medical examiner Avery Johnson careens toward a dangerous path, she pulls the unwitting detective into a dark web of deception and lust, triggered by a spree of recent killings.

Is this new player linked to the Bathory murders, or is it another copycat?

Time almost took Avery from him once before. As the clock ticks, Quinn will stop at nothing to protect her, refusing to let Avery become a victim again. Against his uncompromising logic, Quinn can't deny his feelings. Avery forces him to acknowledge his darker desires, tempting his control--which weakens with every second he spends with the feisty M.E. as they hunt down the perpetrator threatening to tear them apart.

What a wickedly twisted mind Ms. Wolfe must possess!

With Ties That Bind takes us back into the ACPD where Quinn and Avery are investigating a possible link between two victims. The link they find, however, opens up a can of worms neither of them wanted open. And then the unthinkable...is Avery in danger again?

I like the mix of police procedural and romantic suspense Ms. Wolfe weaves into this dark story. With Ties That Bind lacked the criminal profiling element of With Visions of Red, but I'm hoping to see some in the next installment. The reason behind these latest crimes was interesting as was is link to Avery. And I really appreciate how Ms. Wolfe tied the crimes together with events from With Visions of Red. I'm sure that'll only add to teh suspense over the course of this part of the series.

The budding relationship between Quinn and Avery is an element I look forward to watching continue in its development, especially since it goes against Quinn's code. The pull between them is palpable and intensified with all that's happened to Avery. Quinn is hesitant and Avery is as well, but for different reasons.

The ending left me frantically processing and questioning. Who is this sick person? Do we already know him? I can't get any of the puzzle pieces to fit together yet and I'm biting my nails in anxiety wanting the next set of pieces so I can begin laying out the puzzle to see if I can figure out the picture.

Blog Tour Review & Giveaway ~ By the Rules ~ Elisabeth Staab

Welcome to my stop on the blog tour for By the Rules by Elisabeth Staab. My stop includes all the deets on the book and series, my review, and a giveaway. You can follow the tour here. Enjoy!

***

By the Rules by Elisabeth Staab
Evergreen Grove #3
Release Date: January 19, 2016
Genre: New Adult, Contemporary, M/M Romance
Source: I received a complimentary copy as part of the tour, but I also purchased my own copy from B&N.
Rating: 3.5 Bookworms
Challenges: COYER B2B, #2016NewRelease
Goodreads ~ Amazon ~ B&N

Synopsis
He thinks I want him because of the rumors around town. Because I think he’s easy. I want AJ, because he’s AJ. 

No liars. No suits. Absolutely no straight guys… 

AJ Fabin’s list of rules keeps him safe. Since getting kicked out of his parents’ home and attacked by a former escorting client, his rules and his life in the tiny town of Evergreen Grove provide a quiet haven. He may be lonely, and he may stick out like a sore thumb, but the folks like him well enough. When he’s not dodging his old pimp, things are peaceful. 

Hayden Price is having a quarter-life crisis. Engaged to a woman he can’t connect to and working a job he secretly hates, he comes to Evergreen Grove to help his mother through a health scare. Returning to his childhood home makes Hayden reevaluate a lot of things, including himself. When he meets AJ and finds he can’t stand the mouthy jerk—almost as much as he can’t stop thinking about him—he has a lot more to change than his career. 

To be together, they’ll both have to break all of their rules. 


By the Rules is book 3 in the Evergreen Grove series, but reads as a standalone.

By the Rules served as my introduction to Ms. Staab, whom I've wanted to read for quite awhile. I will absolutely be readin gmore from her. I did not read books 1 and 2 from the Evergreen Grove series prior to read By the Rules and while I'm sure having read those would have added depth to the story with character development, I certainly was not lost.

I really liked both AJ and Hayden. AJ is quite the character. I can see the compassion shining through him and that's something considering all he's endured - especially being completely shunned by his family because of his sexual preferences. He lives with a 'love me or not' philosophy in his hot pink sneakers and tie-dye shirts. And he also lives by a set of rules that keep him safe from heartbreak. I admired his desire to help others in need. Hayden was a little more difficult to get a handle on. He's come back to Evergreen Grove to take care of his mom after a medical scare. He's been working for his dad - working himself into the ground in order to prove himself and also, maybe, in order to forget what's really plaguing him.

The interactions between AJ and Hayden are fun for the most part. There was a lot of sexual tension in the snarky banter. And I ejoyed seeing them get acquainted. However, I felt the story overall had a rushed feeling. I wished I'd had more backstory for Hayden - more about why he'd left home and more about the things that had shaped who he was. I wished AJ's rules hadn't kept him from going on an actual date with Hayden from the beginning because I think he'd have appreciated a more traditional approach to their relationship. I'd have liked t see more interaction between Hayden and his mom - that is why he was in Evergreen Grove - because I think that would have given more insight into his character.

Overall, I liked By the Rules but felt it could have been a deeper read if there'd been a little more. I do plan to pick up the first two books in this series, though, as I'm curious about Cassie and Jake's, and Dante and Michelle's stories now. And even though I wished for a bit more in AJ and Hayden's story, I liked Ms. Staab's writing style.

Entry-Form

Elisabeth Staab started hunting mutant hedgehogs back in 1842… Oops, wrong bio… Elisabeth Staab digs coffee, saucy stories, and sexy things that go bump in the night. Once, she ate dinner in a jail and liked it. She lives in the Washington DC area with her incredible family and does her best to juggle life while ignoring the laundry.

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Blog Tour Review & Giveaway ~ Unraveled ~ Jennifer Dawson

Welcome to my stop on the blog tour for Jennifer Dawson's Unraveled. Below you'll find all the details on the book, my review, a teaser, and a giveaway. Enjoy! :)



Unraveled by Jennifer Dawson
Undone Series #2.5
Release Date: January 19, 2016
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance, Erotic Romance
Source: I received an eARC from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #2016NewRelease, #COYER B2B
Goodreads ~ Amazon ~ B&N

Synopsis
Valentine's night. Three women. A hot new club where anything can happen.

After a life changing tragedy Layla Hunter is finally happy. Michael Banks has pulled her back from the dead and given her a love she'd thought was lost to her forever. Now, all she wants is to return the favor and give him the one thing she swore she'd never do again.

Jillian Banks is up for absolutely anything and her smoking hot fiance, Leo Santoro, is determined to give it to her. After exploring her fantasies in the privacy of her own home, Jillian's read for more and Leo is going above and beyind to make her happy. In return, she'll do anything to make him proud.

Ruby Stiles isn't sure what she's doing at a sex party at one of Chicago's most anticipated new clubs. Currently she's blaming it on curiosity. All she wants is to disappear into the background, only her emotions have decided to go on a roller coaster ride and the last thing she expects is for Chad Fellows to pick up the pieces. 

Sometimes even the best laid plans unravel...

*While Unraveled can be read as a standalone for fun, it is best read after reading CRAVE and SINFUL.

Oh-hohoho - sooo good! Unraveled was the perfect fix while I'm waiting for the next in the series - as well as the perfect setup for Debauched.

Unraveled takes place in one night - Valentine's Day - and we spend the night with Brandon (whose story I'm anxious for), Layla and Michael, Leo and Jillian, and Ruby and Chad (who I'm not gonna lie - I was hoping for more from him!). They're all attending the private opening of Brandon's newest club. The Lair. And that, in itself, is an experience. But what Unraveled really gives us is this:

• a deeper look into and a deeper understanding of the relationships between Layla and Michael, and Jillian and Leo. I loved this. It is said that a D/s relationship is all about trust with the D knowing exactly what the s needs. Dawson, in my opinion, brilliantly conveyed exactly that between these couples. Layla and Jillian thought they knew what they wanted - what they needed - but Michael and Leo gave them what they *knew* was really desired. The even that occurred served to strengthen both relationships on an even deeper level.
• an introduction to BDSM and the beginning of a deeper introspection for Ruby. She's always been curious about her best friend, Layla's lifestyle choices but has sworn it isn't for her. Spending the evening being up close and personal with the lifestyle, and in the company of Chad, has Ruby's brain spinning - especially since Chad seems to be so observant and insightful towards her.

I delighted in getting updates on Layla and Michael, and Jillian and Leo - seeing their bonds strengthen. But with Unraveled, Ms. Dawson whetted my appetite for Debauched. I'm anxiously awaiting its release and the continuation of Ruby and Chad's story.

Books in the Undone Series

Crave

Undone #1

Goodreads ~ Amazon ~ B&N

Sinful

Undone #2

Goodreads ~ Amazon ~ B&N

Unraveled

Undone #2.5

Goodreads ~ Amazon ~ B&N

Debauched

Undone #3

Releases April 26, 2016

Goodreads

Entry-

Form

Jennifer Dawson is the author of the popular Something New series; spicy, small town romance released with Kensington, and pens the dark and edgy contemporary romance series Undone.   Jennifer grew up in the suburbs of Chicago and graduated from DePaul University with a degree in psychology. She met her husband at the public library while they were studying. To this day, she still maintains she was NOT checking him out. Now, over twenty years later, they are married and living in a suburb right outside of Chicago with two awesome kids and a crazy dog. These days Jennifer can be found sitting behind her computer, writing her next novel, chasing after her kids, keeping an ever-watchful eye on her ever-growing to-do list, and NOT checking out her husband. Jennifer loves connecting with her readers and invites you to check out her website, Facebook page, and join Dawson’s Darlings, her private Facebook Fan group. Sign up for her monthly Newsletter for exclusive insider peeks, new release information and more.

Release Day Review ~ Troublemaker ~ Melissa Pearl

Troublemaker by Melissa Pearl
Songbird Series #6
Release Date: February 1, 2016
Genre: New Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Rating: 3.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #2016NewRelease, #COYER B2B
Goodreads

Synopsis
Kelly DeMarco is out of Marcus Chapman's league. When they met in high school he was besotted with the blue-eyed goddess, but she never gave him the time of day.

High school is now over and the tide is turning.

Five years later, Kelly is job-hunting and the best she can find happens to be Marcus Chapman's personal assistant. He is thrilled by this second chance and determined to win the beauty's affections, but Kelly has no intention of falling for the "class clown."

What you're looking for can be hiding right in front of you.

In spite of her resolve, Marcus's playful charm begins to chip away at Kelly's protective veneer, and she starts to realize that tall, dark, and mysterious isn't a requirement, and sometimes Mr. I Don't Think So can actually be Mr. Perfect.

Will Kelly's obsession with keeping up appearances push Marcus away, or will he have enough drawing power to convince his favorite girl that honest love can outclass anything?

The Songbird Series is one of my favorites because it's comfortable. The writing is always easy to read, the characters feel familiar and are engaging, and the music element gives the stories that little something extra that makes them that much more enjoyable. Troublemaker is a great addition to the series with a couple I was rooting for and an excellent soundtrack!

Marcus is a manager at Torrence Records. He's an affable guy, loyal, honest, and hard-working. I loved his goofy grin, his determination to make people smile and laugh, and his kinda nerdy personality. (In other words, kinda like my hubby. ;) Things are going well for him and then his high school crush turns up to interview for a job as his personal assistant.

Kelly is something else. As the heir to a fashion company, she was raised in a cold home with certain expectations placed on her. Basically, she's always felt like an ornament. She does let a few close friends see the real Kelly, but she hasn't introduced them to her world. And Marcus is *not* her type. Too bad she'll be working for him and he's determined to change her mind.

Marcus was a sweetheart! I liked that Ms. Pearl had the story be about a guy who's been in love forever with the unattainable girl. I had a hard time connecting with Kelly because of her haughtiness. She's so entrenched in social status, seeing people according to where they fall in social circles, how they look, how they dress. It rubbed me wrong, especially considering the expectations her parents placed on her were chafing her. It took a really long time for her to grow a backbone and to realize what she could have with Marcus. Because Marcus - he always saw the real Kelly underneath all her window-dressing. It's a good thing Troublemaker is told using dual POV so that I could connect with Marcus - and see Kelly through his eyes. I did eventually warm up to her though and I was fist pumping when she finally stood up for herself against her parents, and fought for Marcus.

I have to mention how much I loved Ms. Pearl's use of music in the story - not only in Marcus' job but as an important element in both Marcus' and Kelly's lives. They use it to communicate - and it added this layer of fun to their story. Now Ms. Pearl has me anxious for the next couple's story - and I get the pleasure of going back for a few I missed in between.

Review ~ Interlude ~ Anna Cruise

Interlude by Anna Cruise
Release Date: October 18, 2015
Genre: New Adult, Romantic Suspense
Source: I received an eARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Rating: 4 Bookworms
Challenges: #BloggerShame, #COYER B2B
Goodreads

Synopsis
Nash Williamson doesn't like complications.

He has it good - a job running lights for the local party scene, a sweet, rent-free place to live, and a semi-serious girlfriend who doesn't give him too much trouble.

Life is pretty perfect. Easy. Just the way he likes it.

But after an unexpected romantic interlude with a beautiful redhead, his life gets a whole lot more complicated.

Drug dealers. Police. An encrypted flash drive. A woman who needs his help.

Suddenly, Nash's world is a series of complications - earth-shattering, life-threatening ones.

And his pretty perfect life will never be the same again.

Interlude was my first Anna Cruise novel. It certainly won't be my last. Obviously, there was something about the synopsis that drew me in, but by the time I started it, I had no idea what I was about to read. And in a way, that made the experience better.

Nash is living a fairly carefree life. His house is paid for, he has his own business, and he has a steady girlfriend - most of the time. He recently gave his roommate the boot. Little did he know that would be a catalyst in changes to his life he never could have imagined - starting with a gorgeous girl showing up at this house in the middle of the night.

Lydia's appearance changes everything for Nash. She needs his help and asks for a lot of trust from him. It seems at every corner she has him wondering if that trust was misplaced. She has him re-evaluating his safety, who he can trust, and her sanity. Along the way, he meets Lydia's sister, Claire, and is pulled that much deeper into something he'd never have chosen to be a part of.

Interlude was quite the suspenseful story. There was mystery, a little conspiracy, action, and the smallest amount of romance. In fact, I almost felt the romance - at least the few steamy scenes - were unnecessary. Although they did move the plot forward. Nash, Lydia, and Claire's story was scary and sad, and it's not over. Ms. Cruise impressed me with this story. Her writing is fluid and she did well building the suspense. I was fully invested in these characters - biting my nails wondering what was going to happen to them, worrying at their decisions. I'm eager to know what comes next. While I wait, I'll unearth the few Cruise novels I already own and give them a go!

Review ~ Off Sides ~ Sawyer Bennett

Off Sides by Sawyer Bennett
Off Series #1
Release Date: February 21, 2013
Genre: New Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: I received an eARC in exchange for an honest review. I also purchased my own copy.
Rating: 3 Bookworms
Challenges: #BloggerShame, #COYER B2B, #2016HW, #ShelfLove
Goodreads

Synopsis
"I'm not sure what possessed me to do it. Maybe it was the impossible expectations I faced, maybe it was my own self-loathing. But I just knew I needed something different to happen. I needed someone... something... to derail me from my current path. Otherwise, I would become lost... a hollowed out shell of a man. So I did it. I approached her, then I pursued her, then I made her mine. And my life was saved..."

Ryan Burnham is the privileged son of a U.S. Congressman and captain of his university's hockey team. While he is on the verge of fulfilling his dreams to play in the NHL, his parents want him on a different course. One he is expected to accept for the sake of his family's public image.

Forced to abandon her music career after the heart breaking death of her parents, Danny Cross exists on the opposite side of the tracks from Ryan. She is struggling to make her own way, working two jobs, attending college part time and volunteering in a homeless shelter. She is on a mission to build her own success.

With a chance meeting, their vastly different worlds collide, causing each to evaluate whether they are truly on the correct path to self-fulfillment and happiness. Can their relationship survive? Particularly when others are against them every step of the way. A lot can happen in just ten short days...

I actually received an eARC of this but I took so long to read it, my guilt induced me to one-click it - lucky for me it was 99 pennies when I did. ;)

Off Sides was my introduction to Bennett's work, although she comes highly recommended. (*wink*Lexxie*wink*) This is also Bennett's debut and she, of course, has quite the body of work at this point. So, I'm going to give you a list of what I liked and what I liked less about Off Sides. 

Since I like bad news first, here's what I liked less:

• It's NA - therefore both MCs suffered tragic upbringings in some way.
• It was a bit predictable
• I wanted more - there was a rushed feeling that would have been negated, in my opinion, if the story had been longer.
• Insta-love

What I liked:

• Compelling characters - I really liked Danny's and Ryan's desire to live life by their own rules. They're both intelligent and admirable in their own ways.
• Riveting story - despite it being predictable with those common NA elements, I was still eager to know what came next, would things work out?
• Bennett's writing style - it's inherently readable. It flows smoothly and is nicely paced - very easy to read.
• Dual POV - I'm finding more and more love for this narration style. Getting the POV of both MCs added so much depth to the story and I felt more connected with them both.

All in all, I was impressed with Off Sides. I can see Bennett hitting her stride in her writing and I'm eager to read more from her backlist - meet more engaging characters, learn all about their lives, and fall in love right along with them.