Release Day Review ~ Good Girl ~ Jana Aston @JanaAston #2018NewRelease

Good Girl by Jana Aston
Release Date: May 15, 2018
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance, Romantic Comedy
Source: I received an ARC from the author which had no influence on my rating and my review is provided voluntarily. I also purchased my own copy on Kindle. 
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #2018NewRelease
Goodreads

Synopsis
I've always been a good girl.
I work hard, I follow the rules, and I always achieve my goals.

But sometimes good girls want things that aren't good for them.
Or someone who isn't good for them.
Like their new boss.

And sometimes they do very bad things to get his attention.
Like sell their virginity in an auction.

Who knew he'd be so very, very mad?
Maybe this was not my best laid plan...

Y'ALL! Ms. Aston does endearingly awkward so well! Good Girl was hilarious but also sweet, heartwarming, and so utterly entertaining. I loved every minute!

Lydia and Rhys' first meeting goes down as one of the best I've read - in the comedic category anyway. Lydia is a recent college grad and she's smart, quirky, and a little socially challenged. She and her BF/roommate, Payton, moved to Vegas to work at a new casino. One night, after Payton tricks Lydia into going to dinner only to take her to a bar, she sets eyes on Rhys. Things get very interesting from there.

Rhys is a guy who thinks he's in touch with his feelings - thinking he has none - but is so clueless as to be ridiculous. It's the only area where he is though. He's handsome, wealthy, about to open a casino in hopes of making a name for himself within his family - oh, and he only does one-night stands...until he meets Lydia and she challenges everything.

These two together are magic...and awkward moments...and passion...and humor. I don't know that I've ever laughed so hard at a book than I did at a particular scene in this one. I was grateful it was only my cats who witnessed i. But seriously, Lydia and Rhys are able to teach one another quite a bit about love and what it means to have a committed relationship. And while it took Rhys a little time to get it all together, he showed glimpses of the gem he was underneath. And Lydia - well, Rhys brought out a different kind of passion in her. They each uncovered the whole person in each other. It was honest, genuine, and on occasion, giggle-inducing.

Ms. Aston's supporting cast rocked as well. t seems we'll be seeing Lydia's BF/roommate Payton next and that promises uproarious antics. But I also hope Canon, a friend of Rhys', gets a story, too. *hint*hint*

It's been a hot second since I last read something from Ms. Aston. I've missed her but Good Girl was worth the wait. 

Release Day Review ~ Riptide ~ Michelle Mankin (@MichelleMankin)

Riptide by Michelle Mankin
Rock Stars, Surf, and Second Chances #2
Release Date: February 21, 2017
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: I received an ARC from the author. I voluntarily provided a review. I also purchased my own copy.
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #2017NewRelease
Goodreads ~ Amazon

Synopsis
Rock star Ramon Martinez can have any woman he wants, and he frequently does because he can't have her.

Karen Grayson
Surfer girl.
My band mate's wife
The one woman I can't have.
The one woman who could have my heart though I can never let her know.

Ramon Martinez
Romeo
Completely forbidden.
I wanted him back at the beginning, but he didn't want me.
So I made the safe choice.

The wrong one.

We were once friends.
Now we're not even that.
But we're both back in Ocean Beach and that dangerous attraction remains.

**PSA: Outside, the first book in this series, is currently FREE. And Riptide is ONLY $0.99**

I'm a sucker for a second chance and in Riptide, the second chance allowed for Karen and Ramon was equally heartwarming and bittersweet because of all the reasons it came about.

These two - their lives together and apart filled with so many "what if's". If only Karen had waited, or chosen more wisely. If only Ramon had behaved differently or fought for what he wanted from the beginning. But maybe things happened the way they did for a reason. Both Karen and Ramon had things to learn - about themselves, about each other, and about the nature of love. I wish their path hadn't been so rocky or painful and full of loss, but it seems that was the path they were meant to take.

See, Karen married Ramon's best friend and band mate, Dominic. But things went awry when he joined the military after 9/11. Ramon was there to support her during Dominic's long absences - and yes, a case could be made that she cheated - if only emotionally - but I'd argue that Dominic cheated too - again, emotionally - with his brothers in the Marines. However, there'd always been a flame between Karen and Ramon - they just wouldn't admit it or act on it. And apparently, it was a flame that wouldn't die.

There were lots of events and years in the making of this romance. Many misunderstandings and hurt feelings. And like I said, a lot of maturing. I felt Ramon's growth more acutely than Karen's, however. The changes he made were visible even if Karen couldn't see them. Karen...in the end, she got there but her insecurities about Ramon's feelings and her desire to become what he wanted - what Dominic wanted as well - made me sad. She couldn't see her own worth and want to be loved or accept love based on that. When she arrived though, that was a thing of beauty.

There was also a lot of back and forth because neither would admit their feelings or misunderstood when feelings were mentioned. This frustrated me a little because they were friends first and foremost so I felt they should've been able to be honest with one another. But then the history they shared explained the reluctance, especially Karen's - so... They'd been though so much together, shared everything with each other, except for their true feelings.

I enjoyed the camaraderie between Simone and Karen, and Ash and Ramon. I hope that continues in the series. And I also appreciated the tough topics Mankin tackled - being a soldier's wife as well as Alzheimer's. I've not experienced military life myself but what Karen went through both with Dominic's continual re-enlistments and his long absences without his discussing his decisions or life overseas, felt very realistic. I felt her fear and hurt and understood her feelings. Dealing with a parent having Alzheimer's - the good days and the bad days - felt realistic as well.

There was a character introduced that had no resolution but I'm guessing she'll reappear in a future story. In fact, I'm counting on it and am very curious about her story as well as how it'll affect a certain former bad-boy rock star. 

Overall, I was enthralled with Karen and Ramon's story. The format, both the dual POV as well as the insertion of the past between present, worked very well. Getting to see where Karen and Ramon were currently and then seeing the progression of the friendship as well as when, how and why the feelings between them developed over the years they've known each other, added the depth and complexity that made this romance rock solid. And Mankin's prose, her description of both the physical and emotional, beautifully conveyed a story where we learn it's never too late to reach for your dream.

Release Day Review ~ Dream Magic ~ Michelle Mankin

Dream Magic by Michelle Mankin
Magic Series #2
Release Date: June 7, 2016
Genre: Adult, Paranormal Romance
Source: Purchased on kindle (I also had the pleasure of beta reading this installment)
Rating: 5 Bookworms
Challenges: #2016NewRelease
Goodreads ~ Amazon ~ B&N

Synopsis
The dreamscape is a place of magic and mystery and meaning. In that nocturnal realm, ideas, images, sensations and emotions drift on the currents of the unconscious mind.
Morpheus the Dream Falcon is most at home in that domain. By night, the one of a kind winged immortal soars on those winds, observing and sometimes even entering the slumbering thoughts of another. By day, he is a highly sought after mercenary feared by his immortal kin for both his unmatched ferocity and his wicked obsidian talons. None of his prey escapes him.
Cecilia Ramirez y Aguilera is the one her truly wants. But the striking oracle of the Court of the Light Immortals is closed to the handsome outlaw, even in her dreams. Broken by unimaginable losses, the seer is but a slave, subject to the whims of a master who is mad and without mercy.
Drawn together by fate, their impossible passion ignites. But will that be enough given the dangerous secrets each keeps from the other? Or will mistrust and the desire for revenge threaten to unravel the powerful magic that binds them?

Dream Magic is the continuing story of the characters from Strange Magic and introduces a new set of characters as well. Like Strange Magic, Dream Magic has it's own plotline but it also ties into an over-arching plotline. Therefore, Strange Magic *must* be read first.

In Dream Magic, we're introduced to Cecilia, "Ceci", and her sister, Millie. They have interesting parentage and are blessed with interesting abilities. Certain events occur whereby the sisters, due to their abilities, are taken prisoner. They are held in the Court of the Light Immortals, and there are witness to parts of their world that their parents tried to shield them from. While at court, the sisters make many new friends and possibly some enemies. And Ceci meets Morpheus, the Dream Falcon. 

Mankin did an excellent job in crafting a fascinating story revolving around mythology: the different gods, both dark and light, evil and good. It was exciting but also relevant in its messages. I very much enjoyed seeing Morpheus, Thyme, Billy, and Bacchus again but I also liked how Mankin meshed the two stories with the introduction of new characters. All of Mankin's characters are well fleshed out, the mythology was used well, and the story was solid. I was pulled into the story in the first few pages and was loathe to put it down. Mankin tossed my emotions in different directions - one minute, I was gasping, the next cheering. I laughed and I cried. I was biting my nails in anticipation of what would happen next. I was enthralled with Ceci and Morpheus' story and enchanted when Billy and Thyme's story intertwined with theirs. 

Obviously, I adored Dream Magic. I may have liked it even more than Strange Magic. The ending was shocking in several ways and I'm more than eager for Twisted Magic, the conclusion to this trilogy. Ms. Mankin, write faster! :D

Release Day Review ~ Mr. Perfect ~ JA Huss

Mr. Perfect by JA Huss
Mister #1
Release Date: April 27, 2016
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Rating: 4 Bookworms
Challenges: #2016NewRelease
Goodreads ~ Amazon

Synopsis
Wanting the perfect man doesn't make me crazy. I just know what I like.

A powerful billionaire in a suit wasn't even my first choice. McAllister Stonewall was never on my radar, I didn't even know he existed.

But I do now.

His hands are all over me at work. The heat of his chest pressing against my bare back as he bends me over the desk is the only thing on my mind.

He is my most forbidden desires unleashed. He is my new secret obsession. He is my Mr. Perfect.

Until the moment I realize... There's no such thing as perfect.

Mr. Perfect is not typical Huss - a sexy story served up with a nice side of mind-twisting suspense. No, Mr. Perfect is more straight-up sexy and fun. And for the most part, I quite enjoyed it.

Ellie can admit she is wasting her talent as the celebrity concierge for Stonewall Entertainment, but the day she has the worst day of her career, she decides maybe she's had enough. Not only did she almost kill her rock star client, she had an interesting run-in with her new boss who happens to be H.O.T. But is also clearly an ass. Ellie, though...she has dreams. She just needs the confidence to reach for them.

McAllister didn't mean for his first meeting with Ellie to go so wrong. He's actually kinda smitten with this adorable girl - whose texts of her dream life he inadvertently received. Ellie sparks his interest - in more ways than one. She makes him think and re-evaluate. She also fogs his brain with lust. If only he can get her to see his side of things...

Thus begins this crazy office romance. And like I said, it was fun. I had several giggle moments. I had several gasping moments. I even had some fan myself moments. The interactions and banter between Ellie and Mac were at times light and at times cringe-worthy. I could see things progressing between them. But I felt there was that little something missing. And it really hit me once that something was delivered. That something was what made the story meaty. There were revelations that made both Mac and Ellie more complex - even more interesting. There were discoveries made - realizations - that showed their entire character as well as how their relationship affected who they are and where they were going - both individually and as a couple. There were questions raised about taking risks, the value of dreams, and blazing your own path. And while I enjoyed their story up to that point because it was sexy and a good time, I couldn't help but wish these events had happened a little sooner since they gave Mac and Ellie so much more depth.

I can't deny that I had a good time with Mr. Perfect. This couple was entertaining and their chemistry was combustible. There were interesting secondary characters introduced and I enjoyed them. Huss, as usual, was stellar at painting the backdrop of a unique office building in the Denver Tech Center juxtaposed with rolling pine covered hills dotted with cows. The only thing that was missing was that little bit extra early on - that meat. With that, Mr. Perfect would have been fabulous rather than just great. However, as this is the first in a new series where there are 5 guys, the Misters, with a connected past, I'm expecting things will just get better from here.

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.

Release Day Review ~ Pregnant by the Rival CEO ~ Karen Booth

Pregnant by the Rival CEO by Karen Booth
Publisher: Harlequin
Release Date: January 5, 2016
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
Rating: 4 Bookworms
Challenges: COYER B2B, Blogger Shame, New Release
Goodreads

Synopsis
It was just business. And then she got pregnant...

Anna Langford is ready to be CEO of the family business, but her brother won't give up control. When she sees the opportunity for a major deal, she goes for it, even though it means working with Jacob Lin, her brother's former best friend, the guy she's never quite gotten over--the man her brother now despises. A successful venture capitalist, Jacob makes ruthless moves. And Anna has given him the perfect chance to take revenge on her brother...

What starts as business turns into romance--until Anna learns of Jacob's motives. And an unplanned pregnancy presents them both with the greatest challenge they've ever faced.

I've read and enjoyed Karen Booth's novels before so when she asked if I'd review Pregnant by the Rival CEO, I quickly agreed. And Booth didn't disappoint. While Pregnant by the Rival CEO differed from the previous novels I'd read (those were aging rock star romances) she proved that she can deliver compelling characters no matter the setting and a pleasurable story as well.

Anna Langford and Jacob Lin shared an easy friendship and one kiss ages ago. But since Jacob's best friend was Anna's brother, Adam, he rebuffed Anna's advances. Then Jacob and Adam's friendship hit the skids and Anna thought she'd never see him Jacob again. Six years later, Jacob appears back in her life as she tries to land a business deal that will cement her place as CEO of her family's company.

I am completely delighted with this story. Booth delivered fairly robust characters in Anna, Jacob, and Adam. Anna is no shrinking violet. She knows what she wants and sets out to get it - in both business and pleasure. Jacob, despite being ruthless in his career, is an honorable man. And Adam seems exactly as overprotective and overbearing as any older brother would be. The business dealings felt very realistic as well - right along with the tension Anna felt in thinking of how Jacob and Adam would react to one another. The romance developed at a nice pace - as did the whole story. And I felt the predicament Anna and Jacob found themselves in - an unexpected prenancy - was also portrayed realistically.

Pregnant by the Rival CEO is a feel-good romance. It's a quick read with the perfect blend of drama and romance. And I'm left very curious about Anna's brothers, Adam (who has his own book already) and Aiden. I'm looking forward to getting better acquainted with the Langford family.

Blog Tour Review & Giveaway ~ Fading Out ~ Trisha Wolfe

Fading Out releases TODAY! Happy Release Day, Trisha Wolfe!

Welcome to my stop on the blog tour for Fading Out. Below you'll find all the details about the book and Living Heartwood series, as well as my review, and a giveaway. To follow along the tour, you can find the schedule here.

***

Fading Out
Living Heartwood #3
Release Date: February 18, 2015
Genre: New Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: I received a complimentary copy, as part of the blog tour, in exchange for an honest review
Rating: 4 Bookworms
Goodreads ~ Amazon

SynopsisLove means fading out so another shines brighter.

Right clothes. Right school. Right fiancé. As a Wyndemere, Arian’s expected to abide by the rules. The most important: be perfect. But Arian’s seemingly flawless life is far from it. An embarrassing expulsion from her parents’ alma mater spirals an already unhealthy obsession out of control, exposing a dark truth.

Faced with having to attend a small private college after a stint in rehab, Arian’s just ready to coast under the radar and repair some of the wreckage, but her father’s looming control is like a vise choking off her air supply.

When a run-in with Braxton’s beloved star quarterback, Ryder Nash, puts Arian squarely in the crosshairs of his devoted teammates, the last of her controlled, orderly world unhinges. As the pranks and paybacks escalate, Arian and Ryder’s rivalry takes a passionate turn. And once Arian glimpses beneath the all-star-athlete exterior Ryder projects, she realizes he’s far more than just a jock.

As their relationship intensifies, outside forces feel the threat. Outrunning their pasts doesn’t mean history won’t repeat itself, but Ryder can’t let that happen. He’s just one Championship game away from breaking the mold. Only one moment, one choice, might change everything.

Told from both Arian's and Ryder's POV. New Adult Contemporary Romance intended for readers 17 years of age and older.

Other Books in the Living Heartwood Series

***

The Darkest Part
Living Heartwood #1

Can be read as stand-alone.

Synopsis
Pressing the boundaries of both the psyche and the heart, Sam and Holden embark on a dangerous journey that will test the limits of love.

Sam Wintry’s life used to be almost perfect. She was engaged to her childhood best friend and high school sweetheart, Tyler Marks, planning an amazing cross-country honeymoon during her college break. But after a hit-and-run leaves her in ruin, she begins seeing Tyler’s fractured, ghostly presence, and her family believes she’s losing her mind. Not until she completes their journey, stopping along the way to scatter Tyler's remains, will Tyler be able cross over. Only...is Sam ready for him to leave her?

When the black sheep of the Marks' family, Holden Marks, returns to check on Tyler's case, Sam convinces him to give her his brother's ashes. Despite their shaky history, she needs him...plus, he owes it to Sam and his brother. What she doesn’t count on is Holden’s relentlessness to go on the trip. 

On the road, Holden realizes just how unhinged Sam has become. Dealing with her psychosis forces him to confront his dark past, making it harder to keep secrets hidden that should remain buried. Especially from Sam, the only woman he’s ever loved. And as Sam starts to unravel the truth, she begins to question if the brother she's unwillingly falling for again is in an even darker place than her.

Add to your Goodreads list!



Losing Track
Living Heartwood #2

Can be read as stand-alone.

Synopsis
Sometimes you have to lose your way before finding the right track.

The roar of a bike engine. The vibration between her thighs. The feel of cool darkness kissing her skin as she coasts along twisty back roads at night—Melody Lachlan lives for these things. Ever since Mel and her best friend Darla escaped their small, backwoods town, they’ve traveled the countryside in search of fast rides, tatted bikers, and good times.

A self-proclaimed poet and lover of all things free, Mel views her life as one long bike ride—with pit stops along the way to numb the pain. But she never saw herself as a junkie. Party as hard as you ride. That’s her motto...until a tragic night steals her soul. Then she’s forced to delve below the surface, to where her demons rage.

When she meets recovered drug addict Boone Randall, she’s more likely to deck him than kiss his dimple-adorable face. She doesn’t want his help; doesn’t want to own up to her part in that night. She just wants to do her time and keep her promise to her friend. Yet Boone challenges Mel, and soon she doesn’t mind sharing the road. Only when Boone’s own secret demons threaten their newfound, fragile security, Mel’s course becomes rocky, and she must decide if letting her well-worn track marks fade is worth finding a new path.

Told from Dual point of view from Melody and Boone, this is a New Adult Contemporary Romance intended for readers seventeen years of age and older.

Add to your Goodreads list!

The Living Heartwood series 

The Darkest Part (Book 1) – Amazon / Goodreads

Losing Track (Book 2) – Amazon / Goodreads

Fading Out (Book 3) –Amazon / Goodreads

Bad Road (Book 4) – Goodreads (Coming 2015)

Fading Out is another incredible installment in the Living Heartwood series. Wolfe is adept at creating these layered, flawed characters that you can't help but root for. Fading Out is a story where 

"'Every protagonist has to make a choice, right?' He looks down at me, his lips spreading into a beautiful smile. 'As long as they can justify their motivation.'" -Ryder

and I was pulling for both Ari and Ryder.

We met Arian "Ari" Wyndemere in Losing Track where she was Mel's roomie in rehab. We don't learn much about her other than she's much deeper than she seems. And indeed she is. Ari is from a wealthy family. She has all sorts of pressure to fit a particular image, never show weakness, convey at least the image of perfection. This, naturally, causes Ari to be an anxious mess. She doesn't handle the anxiety well -- in fact, it's caused an "unhealthy obsession." Ari is actually strong -- feisty -- and very smart. She's just allowed her family so much control over her life that she feels out of control -- and therefore, exerts control in the only way she can. She's lost her sense of self -- until she meets Ryder.

Ryder Nash is a star quarterback, headed for the pros. He works tirelessly towards perfecting his game. He has a rather large chip on his shoulder over things from his past and he's out to prove...something. What he's trying to prove and to whom is open to debate. Meeting Ari makes him dream of more than football. Ryder is not your average jock -- he's smart and creative. He just needs to show Ari there's more to him than what he puts on the field.

Seeing Ari and Ryder spar in the early stages was fun. He really did ignite her fire when all she'd wanted to was remain invisible. He seemed to know the right thing to say to set her off. I wish we'd seen a little more of their bonding -- the things that happened off the page -- to make what they had more solid. At one point, Ryder said he should have known something, but I was left thinking "how?" We weren't privy to seeing why he'd feel that way.

Both Ari and Ryder have grown up dealing with lofty expectations of them -- expectations placed on them by their family, by society, and themselves. It doesn't matter that they are from different worlds. Wolfe illustrates that this is a universal reality. She again uses the metaphor of the heartwood of a tree in relation to people -- how we're flawed but 

"'it's the imperfection that makes you, you. Don't kill off your heartwood--the imperfect, flawed, dark part of you...because even a tree needs its heart to live, Ari. Without it, it would just be a hollow shell.'" - Mel

Ari and Ryder's journey towards finding themselves was one fraught with ugly revelations about themselves and those they love.

"'We do what we feel we must for those we love, even when those we love have no idea that what they're asking us to sacrifice is slowly killing us.'" -Ari

But ultimately, the journey was fulfilling - not to mention left me a puddle of emotion. Wolfe allowed me to travel along with Ari and Ryder and I'm grateful to have been there.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

From an early age, Trisha Wolfe dreamed up fantasy worlds and characters and was accused of talking to herself. Today, she lives in South Carolina with her family and writes full time, using her fantasy worlds as an excuse to continue talking to herself.

For more information on Trisha Wolfe and her works, please visit: www.trishawolfe.com.

To be the first to hear about new releases and sale events, sign up for Trisha Wolfe's Newsletter: http://bit.ly/1rXTKI7.

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#COYER Release Day Review ~ Strange Magic Part Two ~ Michelle Mankin

Strange Magic Part Two
Strange Magic Series
Release Date: February 5, 2015
Genre: Adult, Paranormal Romance, Mythology
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the author in exchange for an honest review
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms

Synopsis

Billy Blade is a hardworking, hard living, razor sharp musical force. Mysterious behind his dark shades, the rough around the edges Texan mesmerizes with his haunting harmonica and tantalizes with his dangerous looks and smooth country charm. His latest album is topping the charts. He's the newly crowned King of the Bacchus Krewe. He's definitely living the rock star dream.

Exotic Creole beauty Thyme Bellerose couldn't be more content. She has it all. An adoring grandmother. A handsome Tulane medical student beau. A satisfying job in the heart of New Orleans' French Quarter. Her life is as rich as the ice cream she creates. She's got everything under control.

But control is an illusion. Dreams can turn into nightmares. And now during Mardi Gras, otherworldly powers stand ready to shape their destinies in ways they could never imaging.

Shadow and light. Magic and mystery. Reality and myth. All come together in a place where rules bend and lines blur. Even those between life and death.

Please note: This is Part Two, the finale of Strange Magic. It does NOT stand alone. Part One must be read first. Part Two is available exclusively on Amazon. http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00RU3NNX6

Recommended for mature readers. 17 and older.

Wow! What an ending for Billy and Thyme. What a world Mankin has created!

In this final installment of Strange Magic (but only the beginning of the series!) we learn more about Billy Blade and his connection to Thyme. We also learn more about about the Immortals and what they're up to. Strange Magic is an incredible story about second chances at love but it's so much more. Mankin created a fantastic mythological world, set in New Orleans, and is really setting the stage for what comes next.

I liked how Mankin used circumstances in her mythological world to mirror ones in our own. The battle lines have been drawn and change is a comin'. I also liked the comparison between the Mississippi River -- caring for her people, healing them -- and Thyme's mother, doing the same.

Mankin demonstrates her remarkable talent as she deftly incorporated her mythological world -- the In Between -- into that of New Orleans. I knew she could create kickass, realistic rock worlds. Here, she proved she's equally able to conjure a world of imagination -- one with bioluminescent waterfalls and duality demons. A world populated with Zeus, Hades, Ares, and Bacchus -- gods who set the rules that are being called into question.

At it's heart, though, is the love story. Both Billy and Thyme had love and lost it. Both were "dead" until they found one another. All the elements Mankin surrounded Billy and Thyme with -- poetry and music -- were a delight. Their end is not the end and I'm eager to see where things go from here.

#COYER Release Day Review ~ Strange Magic ~ Michelle Mankin

Strange Magic ~ Part One
Strange Magic #1
Release Date: January 22, 2015
Genre: New Adult, Paranormal 
Source: I received a complimentary copy from the author in exchange for an honest review
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms
Goodreads ~ Amazon

Synopsis

Billy Blade is a hardworking, hard living, razor sharp musical force. Mysterious behind his dark shades, the rough around the edges Texan mesmerizes with his haunting harmonica and tantalizes with his dangerous looks and smooth country charm. His latest album is topping the charts. He's the newly crowned King of the Bacchus Krewe. He's definitely living the rock star dream.

Exotic Creole beauty Thyme Bellerose couldn't be more content. She has it all. An adoring grandmother. A handsome Tulane medical student beau. A satisfying job in the heart of New Orleans' French Quarter. Her life is as rich as the ice cream she creates. She's got everything under control.

But control is an illusion. Dreams can turn into nightmares. And now during Mardi Gras, otherworldly powers stand ready to shape their destinies in ways they could never imaging.

Shadow and light. Magic and mystery. Reality and myth. All come together in a place where rules bend and lines blur. Even those between life and death.

Please note: This is Part One of a Two part novel. It does NOT stand alone. Part Two is available for pre-sale exclusively on Amazon. http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00RU3NNX6

Recommended for mature readers. 17 and older.

I'm a huge fan of Mankin. This lady rocks at classics with a rock-n-roll spin and just straight-up rock-n-roll stories. Strange Magic is a bit different. It's paranormal, and that's just for starters. Mankin though, proves she just plain rocks at storytelling.

Strange Magic is set in New Orleans during Mardi Gras with Katrina barreling towards the coast. Then it weaves in some Roman mythology, a little voodoo, and a few characters who are perfectly at home in NOLA. Yeah, Mankin's created quite a unique world within the confines of NOLA. And she inhabited it with captivating characters. The result is fabulous.

In this first volume, we meet our MCs, Billy Blade and Thyme Bellerose, but this part of the story mainly involves Thyme. She's a sweetheart, genuine and compassionate. What she ends up enduring is unthinkable -- the why behind it is fascinating.

I can't think of a better setting than NOLA for a story like this one. That Katrina is about to strike added to the ominous feel. Mankin did an incredible job of creating a mythology and an atmosphere that feed into one another so well.

I honestly have no inkling as to where this story will end up. But I'm dying to unravel the mystery. 

**#COYER Release Day Review ~ Obliterate ~ Autumn Grey**

Obliterate
Havoc #2
Release Date: January 5, 2015
Genre: Adult, Suspense, Contemporary Romance
Source: Received a complimentary copy from the author in exchange for an honest review
Rating: 4 Bookworms
Goodreads

Synopsis
"I knew the moment I gave in to pursuing Selene that trouble would follow me. It always does. I should have resisted."

Remington St. Germain is at a crossroads. He can either go after the one person who makes him feel as if he matters - the only person to ever calm the demons that roam his mind - or forget about her. The latter is not an option, even though there is a chance she might reject him. But, damn it all to hell, he will convince her. He has to. Otherwise, he will be right back where he was before she came into his life.

Selene Michaels' stay in Paris is only temporary. She shouldn't get too attached to Remington and his son, Adrien. But, Remington makes her feel alive and reckless, and Adrien makes her loss almost bearable. They complete her. She has a feeling there is more to Remington than a doting father and her overprotective Prince Charming. Besides, the risk of being with them still looms closeby and she will do anything to keep them safe.

Sometimes life gives you a second chance. But what happens when danger threatens that chance?

Obliterate picks up where Havoc left off. Although Selene was firm in her decision - she and Remington both refuse to let fear rule their lives. Nor do they want to let go of what they've found in each other. I liked that their feelings were important enough to fight for - even if it leaves them vulnerable.

I enjoyed watching as Selene and Remington, and Adrien, all get better acquainted...and fall harder for one another. The suspense element introduced in Havoc is still present - a dark cloud hanging over their happiness.

Grey sent tingles down my spine during two particularly intense scenes. I'm leaning towards being wrong with my original theory of who is behind the threat. And two revelations that occurred really have me scratching my head about what exactly is going on.

In Obliterate, Grey continues to nicely blend the mystery, suspense, steam, and the second-chance romance. I honestly have no idea in which direction things are going to go. Grey left us hanging a bit. And I'm anxious for all the pieces to fall into place.

**Release Day Review ~ Status ~ JA Huss**

Happy Release Day, JA Huss!

***

Status (Social Media #4)
By @JA Huss
Release Date: October 8, 2014
Novella (115ish pages)
Genre: Adult Contemporary Romance
Source: I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review...but y'all, this is JA Huss! So y'all know I had this one on pre-order. :)
Rating: 5 *Even-Twistier* Bookworms
Goodread ~ Amazon

Description:
MovieStar @VaughnAsher @FilthyBlueBird #DirtyHeaven is mine tonight. 

Grace @FilthyBlueBird @VaughnAsher I own #DirtyHeaven, bitch. #VaughnAsherIsMyBitch

MovieStar @VaughnAsher @FilthyBlueBird #FlashbackTime Get ready. 

Grace @FilthyBlueBird Come here and take off my lip gloss @VaughnAsher #OnMyKneesWaiting 

MovieStar @VaughnAsher @FilthyBlueBird #Flashback to last night. Oh, you weren’t wearing lip gloss. But you are now. #GetOnYourKneesAndWait

Grace @FilthyBlueBird @VaughnAsher ­ Dabbing lips with a napkin. #ThatAllYouGot?

Finally... Grace sees me in a different light. The banter is flirty, the sex is fun, and the future looks fabulous. I just hope she feels the same way when she finds out what I did.

Oh my! That kinda sums up my feelings throughout this installment...with varying degrees of emphasis and perhaps a few colorful words thrown in. ;)

In Status, Grace is hiding after having run from the media maelstrom as well as from Vaughn. And Vaughn is having no part of that. When Grace finally, finally comes to her senses decides to listen, I was whooping with joy. As she and Vaughn talk things out, little bits and pieces of Grace are revealed - those bits and pieces she's been hiding from the world for the last 10 years. Man...

Grace did quite a bit of waffling and although she's not a stranger to this behavior, it made me want to bang my head against a wall this time. But then Vaughn would explain her behavior and how it relates to Grace's secrets, and I'd feel better about it.

Vaughn, this man is *dreamy*, and he is completely head over heels for Grace. He'd have to be to fight for Grace like he does. He is her prince. (I'll take him if it turns out Grace doesn't want him ;) While Status is more about Grace revealing things and Vaughn hiding things...well, a thing in particular, I still feel as though these two are still on journeys of self-discovery. I'm hoping that path keeps leading them toward one another. Grace has a lot to work through but the man Vaughn is becoming will be the man to stand beside while she does so.

That thing Vaughn did in Block was...well, you're going to have to read Status to find out what he did. I will tell you this...the cliffhanger at the end of Status is going to BLOW.YOUR.MIND! Naturally, JA has to throw an even bigger, rather unexpected twist into things. I did say she was a genius at this. :) I'm already contemplating various possibilities - all of which are probably wrong. I need Profile now!