My TBR List Review ~ October ~ Lover Revealed ~ J.R. Ward #MyTBRList #TravelingtotheTerminus

My To-Be Read List is a meme hosted by Michelle @Because Reading. 



Lover Revealed by J.R. Ward
Black Dagger Brotherhood #4
Release Date: March 6, 2007
Genre: Adult, Paranormal Romance
Source: Library
Rating: 4 Bookworms
Challenges: #TravelingtotheTerminus
Goodreads

Synopsis
Butch O'Neal is a fighter by nature. A hard-living ex-homicide cop, he's the only human ever to be allowed in the inner circle of the Black Dagger Brotherhood. And he wants to go even deeper into the vampire world-to engage in the turf war with the lessers. He's got nothing to lose. His heart belongs to a female vampire, an aristocratic beauty who's way out of his league. If he can't have Marissa, then at least he can fight side by side with the Brothers...

Fate curses him with the very thing he wants. When Butch sacrifices himself to save a civilian vampire from the slayers, he falls prey to the darkest force in the war. Left for dead, he's found by a miracle, and the Brotherhood calls on Marissa to bring him back. But even her love may not be enough to save him...

Confession: I started the Black Dagger Brotherhood series before I began blogging. Waaaay before. I couldn't remember where I'd stopped in this series but when I was reading through the synopses of the books, this one didn't sound familiar. After getting about a third of the way in, I realized that yeah, I'd read this one before. BUT it was about ten years ago so even though I remembered some things, there was more that I didn't. So this served as a nice reintroduction to the series.

Highlights:

• Plot
  Of course I remembered the basics - the Brotherhood, the Princeps Council, the lessers. But I enjoyed how the plot progression in this installment refreshed my memory. What Ward did with Butch and the prophecy was rather genius. It enabled Butch's role to make more sense or rather feel more realistic as well as rounding out his character.
• Characters
  Getting to spend time with Brothers I'd met previously (and remembered *wink*) and their mates was also memory refreshing. Butch, the hero of Lover Revealed, I'd always liked as well. He's a hard guy with a squishy center. Marissa was a female vampire I liked but felt she was a little weak. Seeing her find her backbone and her purpose after being made to feel "less than" her whole existence was inspiring and made me like her much more. I'm very curious about what's to come for Vishous and John though.
• Politics/Culture
  The politics among the vampires, the culture of the vampire aristocracy, and the politics among the lessers was interesting to watch in action. Particularly in regards to how the vampires treat women (in the aristocracy) and those they consider inferior among their own race.

So yeah, despite having read this previously, Lover Revealed reignited my enthusiasm for the series and I'm eager to continue.

#OctobeRecFest Review #8 ~ Breakable ~ Tammara Webber #ShelfLove #TravelingtotheTerminus

Breakable by Tammara Webber
Contours of the Heart #2
Release Date: May 6, 2014
Genre: New Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: Purchased paperback
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #OctobeRecFest, #ShelfLove, #TravelingtotheTerminus
Goodreads
Recommended by: Girls @Chapter Break, Naomi @Naomi's Reading Palace, Sharrice @Reese's Reviews, Robyn @Robgirlbooks, Tanya @Girl Plus Books, Teresa @Readers Live 1000 Lives, & Andrea (formerly The Bookish Babe)

Synopsis
He was lost and alone. Then he found her.
And the future seemed more fragile than ever.

As a child, Landon Lucas Maxfield believed his life was perfect and looked forward to a future filled with promise - until tragedy tore his family apart and made him doubt everything he ever believed.

All he wanted was to leave the past behind. When he met Jacqueline Wallace, his desire to be everything she needed came so easy...

As easy as it could be for a man who learned that the soul is breakable and that everything you hoped for could be ripped away in a heartbeat.

**This book was recommended by EVERYONE! (see above)**

I admit to being a little hesitant about Breakable, wondering how much more I could get out of the story being told from Landon/Lucas' POV. But it was so much more than simply a retelling of Easy. Webber gave me it all - everything Lucas endured, all he felt. And I fell for him even harder.

Although Breakable does give us more from Lucas' side of the story on how things went down with Jacqueline, it primarily related more about all that he experienced growing up - especially after the tragedy he suffered at 13. Witnessing all that through his eyes, how he internalized what happened, his dad's reaction to it, the way in which he (Lucas) coped, and, finally, what turned his life around broke my heart. But it also eventually put it back together.

I felt for Landon/Lucas. He didn't have many people on his side. And he continued to suffer devastating losses and/or blows. It was incredible the man he grew up to be and it was beautiful to watch him finally open up to Jacqueline. That took great strength and courage.

Breakable was deeply emotional and moving. And it was absolutely worth the read!

#OctobeRecFest Review #7 ~ Ricochet ~ Becca & Krista Ritchie #ShelfLove #TravelingtotheTerminus

Ricochet by Krista & Becca Ritchie
Addicted Series #1.5
Release Date: May 22, 20134
Genre: New Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: Purchased on Kindle
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #OctobeRecFest, #ShelfLove, #TravelingtotheTerminus
Recommended by: Tanya @Girl Plus Books among others
Goodreads

Synopsis
As a sex addict, Lily Calloway must do the impossible. Stay celibate for 90 days.

Cravings and fantasies become her new routine, but while Loren Hale recovers from his alcohol addiction, Lily wonders if he'll realize what a monster she really is. After all, her sexual compulsions begin to rule her life the longer she stays faithful to him.

Progress. That's what Lily's striving for. But by trying to become closer to her family--people who aren't aware of her addiction--she creates larger obstacles. When she spends time with her youngest sister, she learns more about her than she ever imagined and sense an unsettling connection between Daisy and Ryke Meadows.

With Lily and Lo's dysfunctional relationship teetering and unbalanced, they will need to find a way to reconnect from miles apart. But the inability to "touch" proves to be one of the hardest tests on their road to recovery. Some love brushes the surface. Some love is deeper than skin.

Lily and Lo have three months to discover just how deep their love really goes.

First of all, this is listed as a novella and it's really a full-length novel. The only reason I can figure for the novella classification is that it primarily revolves around Lily, since Lo is in rehab, and this series as a whole is about them both. However, it does some incredible character development and it was a riveting addition to the series.

Ricochet mainly details Lily's 3 months dealing with her addiction on her own while Lo is in rehab for alcoholism. And by "on her won" I mean without Lo who's been a constant in her life since...well, forever. She does however have her sister, Rose, Rose's boyfriend, Connor, and Lo's half-brother Ryke on her side. 

What I enjoyed most about Ricochet was the character development. We get better acquainted with Lily's sister, Rose, seeing her compassion and devotion to her Lily as well as what drives her and even a glimpse of the "why" behind her drive. We also got to know Daisy, the youngest Calloway sister, better as well as witnessing the dynamics between the Calloway girls. This created a better understanding of them all. I also enjoyed getting to know Ryke better. His is rather prickly on the surface but he actually seems to have a heart of gold.

The most satisfying development was seeing Lily cope and mature. Her addiction to sex is one difficult to deal with. As her therapist said, sex is a natural part of life and therefore not something you can quit cold turkey. But Lily's devotion to Lo, her determination to not only not cheat on him but to also get healthier to enable them to build a healthier relationship was inspiring and admirable. It wasn't easy and Lily's flaws and insecurities were all laid bare. We got more history between her and Lo as well as witnessing some pivotal moments from her childhood - with her family and with Lo - that impacted her. In all, this was simply a well-crafted and integral part of Lily and Lo's story even if Lo was mostly MIA. Of course, he may not have been on the page but he was always "there." At any rate, I'm truly a fan of the Ritchie sisters at this pint and I can't wait for the rest of the story.

As an aside, this story has been rolling around in my brain and I've been thinking that some people may judge it (the story) and people like Lily because of her sex addiction. They may even judge her more harshly than Lo even though he has his own addiction. But over the course of the story, Lily learns the "why" behind her addiction and the things that led her to it are no different than those that lead other people to over-eating or over-spending. My point is that I hope readers give Lily and Lo a chance because even if they don't relate to precisely why they have their addictions, they really aren't that different from anyone else.

#OctobeRecFest New Release Review #6 ~ Taken ~ Jennifer Dawson #2017NewRelease #TravelingtotheTerminus

Taken by Jennifer Dawson
Undone Series #4
Release Date: October 24, 2017
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance, Erotic Romance, BDSM
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the author. This did not affect my rating and my review is provided voluntarily.
Rating: 4 Bookworms
Challenges: #2017NewRelease, #OctobeRecFest, #TravelingtotheTerminus
Recommended by: Kimberly @Caffeinated Book Reviewer
Goodreads

Synopsis
Brandon Townsend III

Rich, beautiful and entitled, once upon a time he was king of the trust fund babies. He took anything and anyone he wanted, until one day, he walked away without explanation. Now, he's an untouchable mystery, one I'm determined to crack. And I'm not talking about anything mundane like his bed. No, I want something far more valuable.

I want into this head.

Veronica Westwood has blown into my life creating chaos in her wake, and I don't know quite what to do with her. Rich, beautiful and entitled, she represents everything I've sworn off in life, and her being unexpectedly clever doesn't change that. Instincts warn me to stay away, and that's just what I intend to do, no matter her attempts to wear me down. I'm good at saying no, or at least I was until I met her. I don't understand it, but she's like a weakness, and a man like me can't have weakness.

I simply won't allow it.

The Undone Series is one I've enjoyed immensely. Getting to know all these characters as well as seeing how they incorporate a BDSM lifestyle with their everyday life has been fascinating and a pleasure. The series wouldn't have been complete without having Brandon's story.

Brandon is a character whose story I was anxious to get. He's a bit of an enigma but I'd so delighted in seeing him on occasion in the previous installments - always doing his part to ensure the happiness of his friends but never letting anyone get too close to him. Needless to say I was eager to see him fall and find his own bit of happiness.

Brandon is from a wealthy Chicago family - a trust fund baby who left that life to find his own way. He shuns that life and the people who inhabit it, having made friends who know the real him. But in deference to his parents, he attends one social engagement a quarter, which is where he is cornered by Veronica.

Veronica is also from an old-money Chicago family. She knew of Brandon so when she decides to blow up her life by walking away from the expectations of her family, she knows he'll be the one to understand her. In her determination to earn a job under him, she finds Brandon understands her on an even deeper level than she imagined.

Veronica was the perfect yang to Brandon's yin. They challenged each other, snarked at one another, and Veronica couldn't have asked for a better guide as she began her exploration of the domination she desired and Brandon was eager to deliver. Their chemistry was visceral. However, I'd have liked a bit more on-page time where they built on that chemistry. It happened - it just wasn't all on-page and I felt that because of the trust needed in this sort of relationship, the building of that foundation of trust is something I'd have liked to witness. It's an element I appreciated in the previous installments so I felt its absence in this one.

Overall though, I was pleased. Seeing Brandon meet his match as well as watching Veronica learn more about herself and make friends who were real and that she could be real around was heartwarming. Getting to spend time with Michael and Layla, Leo and Jillian, and Chad and Ruby was also a pleasure. Mostly though, I appreciated that Brandon, and Veronica too, found the happiness they deserved.

#OctobeRecFest Review #5 ~ Impulse ~ Dannika Dark #ShelfLove #TravelingtotheTerminus

Impulse by Dannika Dark
Mageri Series #3
Release Date: March 20, 2013
Genre: Adult, Urban Fantasy, Paranormal Romance
Source: Puchased paperback
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #OctobeRecFest, #ShelfLove
Recommended by: Lexxie @unConventional Bookviews and Lorna @RabidReads among others
Goodreads
 Synopsis
Almost one year ago, a Mage attacked Silver and changed the course of her destiny.
Immortals exist, and now she is one of them.

Within the dark and supernatural city of Cognito, Silver is living under the watchful eye of her Ghuardian and dating her mortal enemy. Neither man can protect her from a dark secret, one buried within the contents of a box. As rival factions struggle to gain control, she finds herself in the middle of a centuries-old feud that threatens to drive a wedge between her and Logan Cross, the man who intends to seduce her.

In an explosive turn of events, one life is saved and another is forever altered. Can Silver trust those around her, or are they hiding a dark secret of their own?

Impulse was an exciting read. The world Ms. Dark has created around her characters is complex with the different Breed and the politics surrounding them. I intend to finish this series by year's end.

Highlights

• Characters
  Ms. Dark is adept at developing strong characters and even though the story revolves around Silver, the entire cast is heavily involved and I feel like I know them and am invested in them equally. In Impulse, I got more of Justus' history and it was illuminating. More was also revealed about Silver - her history, childhood, etc., and it went towards explaining much about her personality. I liked getting this deeper look into her psyche and I'm keen to see where Ms. Dark is going to take some of the information. There were also some revelations about Logan and Simon which I appreciated...especially Logan because he's.... *sigh*
• Politics among Breed
  I find it extremely interesting that politics/tensions among Breed so closely parallel those in our own society. This is an element in Ms. Dark's writing I enjoy and admire because it's so thought-provoking. In Impulse, more was revealed about the intrigue surrounding the Mageri and I'm beginning to see where some things might be going. I also got to see the social structure within the Chitah, thanks to Logan and his brothers, and that was fascinating as well.

Overall, Impulse was kinda like unwrapping a present. There was something exciting or stunning every time I peeled back a layer. I learned so much about the characters and the world right alongside Silver. And I'm so curious to see where everyone goes from here. Ms. Dark really knows how to deliver complex characters, great plot, and a strong secondary cast which, when combined, makes for some fantastic reading.

#OctobeRecFest Review #4 ~ Knight ~ Kristen Ashley #ShelfLove #TravelingtotheTerminus

Knight by Kristen Ashley
Unfinished Heroes #1
Release Date: April 7, 2012
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance, Erotic Romance
Source: Purchased on Kindle
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #OctobeRecFest, #ShelfLove, #TravelingtotheTerminus
Recommended by: Jessica @Rabid Reads
Goodreads

Synopsis
Anya Gage has learned that to get anything good in life, you have to work for it. She has no expectations, no dreams.

Then she finds herself at a party where she doesn't want to be and she meets Knight.

Knight Sebring knows who he is, what he wants and what he likes. And he gets it. But he never expected something as sweet as Anya Gage to wander into his bedroom during a party he did not expect to be having to borrow his phone.

Knight tries to leave Anya to the life she deserves of white picket fences and a man who watches football on Sundays - good, normal and clean. But when Anya comes to his nightclub and finds herself in a situation, he knows someone has to look after her, he can't fight it anymore and he decides that man will be him.

Knight teaches Anya that, just as with the bad, in life you should also expect the good. And he teaches her this by giving it to her.

But Knight has a dark past and just as he desires Anya for exactly who she is, he fears when she finds out exactly the man he has become and always intends to be, she'll leave him for good, normal and clean.

WARNING: This book is an ADULT EROTIC romance featuring an anti-hero. This novel contains explicit sex scenes and language. The hero in this novel lives a life by his own code with no apologies. He is not your "normal" hero. If you do not enjoy the above, this novel may not be for you.

Note - I know I'm supposed to be catching up on series I'm behind in but while this book is technically the first book in a series, I'm making my way through KA's recommended reading order for her books and this one was next on the list. =) Now on to the review...

KA, even when she takes a slightly different tack with her storytelling, still manages to deliver a story in her signature style. 

Knight, the first in her Unfinished Hero series, was that something a little different. Oh, Anya is her typical heroine...strong, resilient, smart, and sassy. I adored her. But Knight. Knight was an anti-hero. He was a good man who engaged in some maybe not so good things. His intentions and his heart - those were his redeeming qualities. He'd lived a portion of his life in an unsavory situation before it was made better. Anya lived a wonderful life until things went bad. Knight wanted to give her the gold - give her all he could to make her life wonderful again.

KA not only delivered a mighty fine romance. She also delivered a supporting cast that was fun to get to know. Anya had some great friends at her back - an defining element for KA. There was also some tension and a little suspense. And, of course, KA delivered all the feels. My emotions were all over the place. And Knight and Anya together were magic. So while this was a slightly different kind of KA, I still very much enjoyed it.

#OctobeRecFest Review #3 ~ Edge of Oblivion ~ J.T. Geissinger #ShelfLove #TravelingtotheTerminus

Edge of Oblivion by J.T. Geissinger
Night Prowlers #2
Release Date: October 2, 2012
Genre: Adult, Paranormal Romance
Source: Puchased paperback
Rating: 5 Bookworms
Challenges: #OctobeRecFest, #ShelfLove, #TravelingtotheTerminus
Recommended by: Lorna @Rabid Reads
Goodreads

Synopsis
There exists a world beyond our own. It is a world of ancient magic and well-guarded secrets, a world of strict laws and harsh punishments for those who betray them, a world inhabited by the Ikati, a race of gifted people who are so much more than they first appear. Brought together by fate in this world of danger and beauty, two people with dark pasts will meet.

Morgan is beautiful, smart, sexy...and about to die. Convicted of treason against her shape-shifting kin, she is given one last chance at redemption; discover the hidden lair of the enemy intent on destroying every one of her kind, or forfeit her life.

Xander is ruthless, heartless, cold-blooded...and assigned to kill her if she fails in her task. Expecting to feel nothing but contempt for the traitor under his watch, the assassin accompanies Morgan on her search, but as the two race through the heart of Italy while the clock winds down to zero hour, he finds himself drawn into a dangerous web of desire as powerful as it is forbidden. Their passion will test everything they believe in, and endanger the future of the tribe itself.

Sensual, edgy, and action-packed, Edge of Oblivion is a must-read for lovers of dark paranormal romance.

You know, it's been a few years since I read Shadow's Edge, book #1 in this series, and I have to commend Geissinger for creating a world and mythology that was so impressive I was immediately drawn back in. 

Highlights

• World building/mythology
  Not only did Geissinger create a mythology with history, culture, and a detailed social structure within the Ikati, she also brought the English countryside as well as Rome to life. The Ikati mythology uses Egyptian mythology and Geissinger incorporates such detail, everything felt visceral and/or "real".
• Character development
  Morgan was a character I met in book #1 and I already liked her, identified with her and admired her even if her decisions were questionable. To see her grow in Edge of Oblivion, find answers about herself as she fought to save her life, and to find something in Xander that she never expected - well, it was fascinating. And Xander, a brutal, stoic man who believed he was immune to emotion because of traumatic events from his youth, was a character I enjoyed getting to know. I also appreciated seeing him grow and change as he gets to know Morgan and as she slowly knocked down his walls.
• The mystery and secondary cast
  Morgan was tasked with finding the leader of the Expurgari in order to save her life. All that was discovered and revealed on that front was thrilling! I didn't figure out any of it and it was so well written. And again, the detail of the underground "world" beneath Rome, along with the characters who lived there was vivid, shocking, and moving. The secondary characters, whom I know I'll see more of, were well-drawn and engaging. From assassins to a princess, Geissinger made me care about them all.

Edge of Oblivion was captivating, adrenaline-inducing, and tear-jerking. It was a story that drew me in and kept me riveted. I'm eager to continue and see what comes next.

My TBR List Review ~ September ~ The Departed ~ Shiloh Walker #MyTBRL #ShelfLove

My To-Be Read List is a meme hosted by Michelle @Because Reading. 


The Departed by Shiloh Walker
The FBI Psychics #2
Release Date: January 3, 2012
Genre: Adult, Romantic Suspense
Source: Purchased paperback
Rating: 4 Bookworms
Challenges: #ShelfLove, #TravelingtotheTerminus
Goodreads

Synopsis
A LIFELONG OBSESSION

FBI Special Agent Taylor Jones has made it his mission to save those in harm's way by any means necessary-including employing psychic agents like Desiree "Dez" Lincoln, who can communicate with the disembodied spirits of the dead. Taylor is haunted by his own ghost, his kid sister, gone missing at age six. For a quarter of a century he has been tortured by her loss and the mystery of her disappearance.

A NIGHT'S INDISCRETION

When Dez is seriously wounded, Taylor can no longer hide his feelings for her. Getting involved could spell disaster for both of them-not to mention those who rely on them for help-but once Dez lays her hands on him, he can't resist the fierce attraction. But after giving in to his desires, Taylor pulls back, and Dez strikes out on her own.

AN INESCAPABLE PASSION

Responding to the call of another anguished spirit, Dez is led to Taylor's old hometown. As the two are forced to come together to save a girl in peril, Dez may be able to help Taylor finally find the answers he's been looking for...

It's been a number of years since I read The Missing, the first book in Walker's FBI Psychics series, but it's a story that's really stuck with me so I was excited The Departed won the vote this month. It's a great sequel and one I was happy to get having met Taylor Jones in The Missing - I wanted to know his story. I admit that I hate that this one has been languishing on my shelf since it released but I'm happy I read it now and that there's more in the series.

Highlights

• Taylor & Dez
  Walker is rather gifted with developing complex characters whom you become very invested in. I mean, Taylor had stuck with me enough that I was thrilled he was getting a book. Taylor, on the surface, seems cold, methodical, completely able to keep his emotions in check. Finding out why he is the way he is was interesting - especially since he was far from emotionless when it came to Dez. Dez is such a compassionate person - which is a good thing considering her gift. She can communicate with the dead, helping them, in whatever way is needed, to find peace so they can move on. 
• The Paranormal Element
  Since I'm a believer in psychic abilities, that Walker created a division within the FBI that uses agents with those gifts to solve crimes is something I find very compelling.
• The Suspense Element
  Honestly, I hadn't figured out the biggest mystery when the reveal occurred. Some things became clear as hints were dropped but Walker kept me riveted. There were a few things left unanswered that I would have liked knowing but overall, the suspense was well done. The way Walker incorporated the paranormal with the suspense made it all the better.
• The Romance Element
  Taylor and Dez have ignored their feelings for one another for awhile so when they let loose, they ignited. It was a rocky road though. Watching Dez stand up to Taylor, enjoying their prickly banter, and seeing Taylor's walls come down...it was good stuff!

Walker does an excellent job of combining some paranormal with gripping suspense and a dash of romance! ;)

Review ~ Tease ~ Ella Frank #2017NewRelease

Tease by Ella Frank
Temptation Series #4
Release Date: May 9, 2017
Genre: Adult, M/M Contemporary Romance
Source: Purchased on kindle
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #2017NewRelease, #TravelingtotheTerminus
Goodreads

Synopsis
Tease - verb: to tantalize especially by arousing desire or curiosity often without intending to satisfy it....unless your name is Tate Morrison.

It's been four years since Logan Mitchell walked into Tate's life and irrevocably changed it. Four years since the sexy as sin lawyer dared him to try, and four years since Tate won his love.

Now, as they approach the next chapter of their lives Logan is determined they won't end up like many of their friends. Settled. Domestic. Boring. However, that's easier said than done. With busy careers and working odd hours, finding time for one another is becoming increasingly difficult.

But that sh*t isn't going to fly with Logan or Tate.

The two of them are determined to compromise to get what it is they want, and what they want is each other.

Tease is the sexy, tantalizing continuation of the two men who stole your heart... and popped your cherry.

If y'all have followed me for a few  years, you might remember my gushing reviews about these two guys. Quite simply, they are my favorite M/M couple. SO you may be able to imagine my reaction to finding out Ella Frank was adding to the series...

More Tate and Logan? Yessssss!

Tease picks up in Tate and Logan's life 4 years later. Tate's bar, The Popped Cherry, is a success and Logan's law firm is doing well too. Sound staid? Here are a few reasons Tease is wroth the read:

• Logan - he's HOT, charismatic, sharp-witted, and he knows how to state his case. His banter - with anyone but especially Tate - is typically snarky and fun. But while he exudes confidence, I like that he has a vulnerable side that he willingly shares with Tate.
• Tate - he's so grounded. Oh, he's hot too but he definitely is the yang to Logan's yin. I've always appreciated that Tate takes the time to analyze, think things through before making decisions, and once he makes one, he's solid.
• More than romance - despite the fact we do get to see that the spark is still very much alive between Logan and Tate, I enjoyed seeing how they've progressed in their relationship and how they deal when things from their past and present force them to handle things like bigotry and prejudice.

While Tease maybe wasn't quite as dazzling as it's predecessors, it's a worthy continuation to Logan and Tate's story.

Review Redux + Review ~ Undeniable & UnBeautifully ~ Madeline Sheehan #ShelfLove

Undeniable by Madeline Sheehan
Undeniable Series #1
Release Date: October 7, 2012
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance, Dark Romance, MC Romance
Source: Purchased on Nook
Rating: 5 Bookworms
Challenges: #ShelfLove, #TravelingtotheTerminus
Goodreads

Synopsis
Warning: This is not a "typical love story." This is an all-consuming, soul-crushing, tear-your-heart-into-piece story. It's intense, gritty and raw, dark and disturbing, and it doesn't happen overnight. This is an epic love story that knows no boundaries and has no time limits. It grows and develops - with hurt, sacrifice, and heartache - over the span of a lifetime.

Eva Fox is the princess of the Silver Demons Motorcycle Club. Growing up with bikers in the club lifestyle is all that she knows. When she's a young girl, Eva meets the reason for her existence. Deuce West is the sexy, biker bad-ass of the Hell's Horsemen Motorcycle Club. Like Eva, he was born and raised in the club - but that's where the similarities end. Their first meeting is innocent, but as Eva matures into a woman, their chance reunions evolve into a fit of lust and love. Fate continues to bring them together time and time again, but their twisted journey is filled with pain, betrayal, and bloodshed that could tear them apart. Eva sees in Deuce what he cannot see in himself - a man worthy of love - and Eva spends her lifetime proving to him that her undeniable love is the one thing he can't live without.

This is Eva and Deuce's story.

It wasn't easy.
Nothing worth doing ever is.
And love is worth everything.

I first read Undeniable back in late 2012. (If you want to see what my first reviews looked like you can find that review here but don't go in with high expectations. =) It was my first MC book and it made quite an impression. When I decided to re-read it prior to continuing the series, I wondered a few things. 1) Why, if I found the story for unforgettable - and I totally did - did I not continue the series and/or read more from Sheehan? And 2) Would it have the same impact on me how that I have a few MC books under my belt as well as having seen some episodes of SoA?

After my re-read, my answers are: 1) Who the heck knows?!? and 2) A resounding YESSSS!!!

UnBeautifully by Madeline Sheehan
Undeniable Series #2
Release Date: May 13, 2013
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance, Dark Romance, MC Romance
Source: Purchased on Nook
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #ShelfLove, #TravelingtotheTerminus
Goodreads

Synopsis
Warning: This is not a story about fate or destiny. This is a story about pain, sorrow, and suffering. This is an impulsive whirlwind romance between two lovers that are not meant to be together. Theirs is not a world with sunshine and roses. Instead, their love blossoms in a secret world of crime, violence, and death. Their story is about what can be born from nightmares.

Danielle "Danny" West is the daughter of Deuce West, President of the Hell's Horsemen Motorcycle Club. A sweet and beautiful girl, she loses her way, searching for things that are always out of her reach. Erik "Ripper" Jacobs is the Sergeant of Arms in the Hell's Horsemen. Once a man who always had a smile on his face, his life takes a turn for the worst when a tragedy befalls him, leaving him scarred and broken. During a midsummer night, Danny and Ripper's paths cross, forever changing their lives. Hastily, their lust turns to love until another tragedy forces them apart. On a journey that is marred in ugliness and chaos, Danny and Ripper must discover if their unforeseen connection can find the beauty in their world.

This is Danny and Ripper's story.

Everything has beauty. Even the ugly. Especially the ugly.
Because without ugly, there would be no beauty.

I immediately dove into UnBeautifully after having finished Undeniable for the second time. I loved being completely immersed in this world, continuing the stories of these character I'm captivated by.

UnBeautifully is the story of Deuce's daughter, Danny, and his Sergeant at Arms, Ripper. Their story develops over a number of years and it's not always pretty. Ripper used to be a player of sorts, until he was used as a pawn in the game played by a rival MC trying to exact revenge against Eva and Deuce. Ripper was left terribly scarred, both outside and inside. He was left with a self-image issue, to say the least, and he doesn't feel worthy of anyone, least of all Danny. Danny has issues of her own being raised by Deuce and her mom, who ends up having little presence in Danny's and her brother's lives. Deuce isn't going to win Dad of the Year, which I found ironic since he preaches respect for women and seemed to show little to his own daughter. Anyway, the romance that blossoms between these two broken souls was beautiful, even when it wasn't, because they so deserved love despite not believing in it.

I liked that Sheehan also continued Eva and Deuce's story - its affect on Ripper and Danny included - as well as other character's we'd met previously. It was fascinating seeing all these added details and gave Danny and Ripper's story that much more depth. Danny and Ripper not only have to deal with self-doubt but also Ripper's position, murder, and mayhem. It was an action-packed and emotionally charged read that kept me reading til well past my bedtime. And I'm eager to continue.

Review ~ Beauty from Surrender ~ Georgia Cates #TravelingtotheTerminus

Beauty from Surrender by Georgia Cates
Beauty Series #2
Release Date: May 30, 2013
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: Purchased on kindle
Rating: 4 Bookworms
Challenges: #Goodreads, #TravelingtotheTerminus
Goodreads

Synopsis
How do you move on when he's every song you sing?

After Laurelyn Prescott walks away from the love of her life, she returns to Nashville to pursue the only dream she has left. Determined to find a distraction from the pain of losing Jack Henry, she immerses herself in her music. But with her old life comes old acquaintances and new expectations. When Laurelyn refuses her record producer's outrageous demands, she finds herself without a career - until an unforeseen opportunity presents itself. From there it's a rocket ride straight to the top where Laurelyn finds the success she's always dreamed of. Will it be enough to bring her the happiness she so deserves, or will the absence of Jack Henry leave her wanting more?

Jack Henry McLachlan never expected to fall in love with Laurelyn Prescott - but he did. After he foolishly let her slip through his fingers, he spends three months searching for her, but their reunion doesn't come easy. The woman he finds isn't the same one who drifted away without a goodbye. No longer an insecure girl on an Australian adventure, this Laurelyn is a successful musician with a promising career. Her dreams are becoming a reality, and Jack is terrified his American girl won't have a place for him in her new life. With only a month to convince her otherwise, will it be enough time to make her visualize a life beyond the glitz and glamour, a life that includes him?

Beauty in Surrender continues Laurelyn and Jack Henry's story. It was heartbreaking to begin with - both of them being so unhappy apart. Things eventually took an upswing though. Here's what worked and what could have worked better, in my opinion:

What Worked

• The emotion. If there's one thing Cates is adept at it's evoking emotion! I felt Jack Henry's despair in not being able to locate Laurelyn and thinking he'd lost her. I felt Laurelyn's struggle over wanting to be with Jack Henry but also wanting the career she'd worked so hard for. I felt the elation, the passion, the fear they each experienced when they found one another and then tried to figure out if they could work things out. The feels....they packed a punch!
• The secondary cast. I enjoyed being with Jack Henry's family again. I liked seeing how close he is with his family and how their dynamics affect them. I also liked how they welcomed Laurelyn into the fold. Laurelyn's parents, on the other hand, left something to be desired and her best friend wasn't as present in this installment but I liked her. I even liked the band members who gave Laurelyn her chance.
• The story. I found myself captivated by Jack Henry and Laurelyn's story once again, reveling in their times together and despairing at the thought they wouldn't work things out.

What Could Have Worked Better

• The story. Despite my positive feelings about the story, there was something missing from this second installment. That thin was the suspense element. While one part explored in the first book was present, it was too easily resolved and never discussed again. The other part was barely given a mention. Although I feel quite certain it will have a pivotal role in the final installment, I missed the tension it provided in the first book.

Even though Beauty in Surrender didn't quite live up the the first book, I am still enchanted with and invested in Jack Henry and Laurelyn's story. I'll be finishing it sooner than later.

As an aside, I love how the title reflects what goes on in the story - Jack Henry and Laurelyn both surrender things they thought they wanted as they learn what they really need and how it defines them. It was beautiful!

My TBR List Review + Bonus Review ~ Just One Lie & Just Once More by Kyra Davis

My To-Be Read List is a meme hosted by Michelle @Because Reading.

I apologize for not having my review up on Saturday, y'all, but my travel schedule prevented me from being able to get the post done. 

***

Just Once More by Kyra Davis
Just One Night #1.5
Release Date: June 22, 2015
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: Purchased on Nook
Rating: 4 Bookworms
Challenges: #ShelfLove, #TravelingtotheTerminus
Goodreads

Synopsis
Robert Dade is a man who konws what he wants and never hesitates to go after it. Money, power, and - at long last - the woman he loves, Kasie Fitzgerald, are now his. But after so many years of living by his own rules will he really make the compromises necessary to keep Kasie by his side? And when a man even richer and more ruthless than he is takes an interest in Kasie, will Dade be able to protect her? Or will his controlling nature drive her toward the very danger he seeks to shield her from?

I adore this series and I thoroughly enjoyed getting this glimpse inside Robert's head. The way Davis tied together Robert's thoughts about how parents impact how children see themselves with Robert's vulnerabilities where Kasie is concerned as well as how Kasie has always lived her life...until Robert came along...was brilliant. I liked the thread Davis wove in that posed a threat to Robert and Kasie's happily-ever-after and I really liked the twist thrown in!

This was more of a short story but it was compelling, well-written, and the perfect segue into the next in the series, Just One Lie. 

Just One Lie by Kyra Davis
Just One Night #2
Release Date: July 28, 2015
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: Purchased paperback
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #COYER, #MyTBRList, #ShelfLove, #TravelingtotheTerminus
Goodreads


Synopsis
In the instant international sensation Just One Night, sensible Kasie Fitzgerald unleashed her passions--and found herself--through an explosive affair. In Just One Lie, we meet Kasie's wild and tortured sister, whose impulsivity and lack of self-control has set off a chain of events that changes her family forever.

Melody Fitzgerald is the opposite of the "perfect" daughter. The lead singer of an indie rock band, she is impulsive and creative, with a rebellious streak that both defines her and becomes her greatest enemy. Her lover, the enticing and unpredictable Ash, shares her free spirit and penchant for trouble. On the face of it, he seems to be her perfect match.

So why is she so drawn to her soft spoken, reliable drummer, Brad Witmer? How can a man who wears polo shirts and reads the financial section of the paper be of any interest to her at all? And why on earth does someone like that appear to be so captivated by her?

Before she knows it, Melody finds herself on a path of self-discovery, passion, and affairs of the heart. But will a dark secret from her past derail it all? Or will its exposure be the very thing that unburdens her heart and allows her to seek a future with the one man who loves her completely?

After reading Just Once More back in May, I was eager to read Just One Lie so I was more the thrilled when it won the vote. ;) Getting Kasie's sister's story - the sister behind so much that shaped Kasie's life - well, I was anxious to get to know Melody. And Melody's story - Mercy, as she's come to be known - I don't know but I think I found it even more compelling than Kasie's. That either of the Fitzgerald girls became productive human beings after growing up with the parents they were given...it's miraculous and proves the power of inner spirit and a strong love.

It's been awhile since I read Just One Night but I think one thing I thoroughly delighted in with Just One Lie was getting to know Brad, the hero, so well. I liked how he looked at life, how he was so much more than he seemed - and he seemed like quite a lot - and I loved how he treated Mercy. He's an intelligent guy, talented, and a giving, loving man. He has his flaws but would give the shirt off his back to a damsel in distress - Mercy being on the top of that list. I also loved that even if it took time to get there, he was self-aware enough and smart enough to see the wisdom in Mercy's advice as well as to give her what she needed despite the hurt it caused him.

Mercy was one messed up young woman - but one that, like Brad said, was also one of the most together women as well. She knew her strengths, her flaws, and her limitations. She was self-aware enough to think through things and make tough decisions - ones that hurt her terribly. Oh, she made her share of mistakes and bad decisions but she learned from them and carried on. She was incredibly strong and resilient. I mean, to endure what she did at the hands of her parents - her dad specifically - yeah. I couldn't help but admire her. Her spirit refused to be crushed.

The way Davis structured the story - the expanse of time, how the details were revealed and revelations made - made for a riveting story. If I hadn't been on a road trip and only able to read in small chunks every day, I'd have probably finished Just One Lie in a day! That's how good it is. I'm still ruminating about it and wish I had the time to read it all over again. Character growth - maturity-wise and emotional - is something I admire in a story and with Mercy and Brad I got it in spades. I did have my doubts at times. There were times I wanted to shake Mercy. But in the end, she didn't let me down.

I think this is the end for the series and I like where it ended so I'm happy. And I'm excited at the prospect of reading more from Davis!