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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What did you think of Laz's serial monogamy?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

Highlights:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Highlights:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Highlights:

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

Audio Review ~ Under Her Skin ~ Adriana Anders #AudioChallenge

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Highlights:

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

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

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

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

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

Synopsis
Lies

Mig's wife is a bitch.

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

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

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

Deceit

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

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

Annie's not a cheater, though.

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

Betrayal

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Audio Review ~ Whiskey Neat ~ Lani Lynn Vale #AudioChallenge #ShelfLove

Whiskey Neat by Lani Lynn Vale
Uncertain Saints #1
Narrated by: Mason Lloyd and Kendall Taylor
Release Date: September 13, 2016
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: I received a complimentary copy from Tantor Audio. This did not affect my rating and my review is voluntarily provided. 
Rating: 3 Bookworms
Challenges: #AudioChallenge, #ShelfLove
Goodreads

Synopsis
Griffin Storm wasn't prone to violence, but when someone takes what Griffin holds dear, the world as he knows it is gone.

Retaliation, revenge and rage fuels him. His club, the Uncertain Saint's MC, do their best to offer support, but Griffin is beyond redemption. He'll do what he has to do. Kill who has has to kill.

He doesn't care if that means he dies. If it gets him what he wants, then it's worth it.

He fakes it all until the night he walks into a sex shop for batteries and lays eyes on a woman that will change his life.

Lenore makes him think past tomorrow. Makes him want to see just what the future might bring.

But his life's a dangerous one built around pain and deception, and not for the faint of heart.

He won't give up the past, not until he's done what he promised to do.

And if that means she's not there when the dust settles, he'll risk it.

Lenore, though, won't give up on him. She'll fix him, whether he wants her to or not.

Whiskey Neat served as the introduction to the Uncertain Saints series and while the story and characters have promise, the execution made for a bumpy ride.

What Worked:

• Griffin & Lenore
  These two had interesting backstories with Griffin searching for the person who took what mattered most to him and Lenore dealing with...well, several things. They're both good people but Griffin is treading a fine line and sometimes steps over in his quest for justice. And besides dealing with her issues on her own, Lenore also runs a sex toy shop. That part was a hoot!
• MC Brotherhood
  The camaraderie between Griffin and his brothers was strong and it allowed me to meet all the players in the series.
• Plot
  I liked how Lenore and Griffin were brought together and how determined Griffin was in his mission for justice. The way things began revealing themselves created suspense too which helped keep me engaged.

What Could Have Worked Better:

• Griffin & Lenore
  I liked these two characters but it seemed like they were dealing with too much - especially Lenore - so that their stories were a bit far-fetched.
• Plot
  Although I liked the story overall, some things were a little OTT for me...stretched my ability to suspend disbelief.
• Editing
  I think having listened to Whiskey Neat made the editing issues more glaring. Editing might have helped in tightening the plot and it would have helped with things like "These thoughts carried her to the door as she locked the door."

The real highlight was the narration! Mason Lloyd and Kendall Taylor were pretty phenomenal. They kept me engaged where I might have given up otherwise. Their voices for each character were distinct and they managed a nice pace for the story.

Whiskey Neat wasn't bad. It just could have been better. Since I have the series in audio, I'll give these guys and gals another go.

Audio Review ~ For 100 Reasons ~ Lara Adrian #AudioChallenge #ShelfLove #TravelingtotheTerminus

For 100 Reasons by Lara Adrian
100 Series #3
Narrated by: Alexander Cendese and Summer Morton
Release Date: January 16, 2017
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance, Erotic Romance
Source: I received a complimentary copy from Tantor Audio. This did not affect my rating and my review is voluntarily provided. 
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #AudioChallenge, #ShelfLove, #TravelingtotheTerminus
Goodreads

Synopsis
Billionaire Dominic Baine stepped into Avery Ross's life when it was at its lowest. Obsessed with the beautiful, struggling artist, Nick was determined to have her. What began as a scorching seduction soon burned out of control, exploding into a white-hot passion neither of them could deny. Yet Nick and Avery are two damaged people, both haunted by dark secrets with the power to destroy them. And for Nick, the ugly past that shaped him cannot compare the the unforgivable deception that drives Avery from his arms, from his life. Now the man accustomed to having everything he desires must find a way to redeem himself to the only woman he has ever loved. Avery Ross has known heartbreak. She has known betrayal and loss, but nothing like the pain that loving Dominic Baine has brought into her life. Reeling from the aftermath of his devastating revelation, instead of allowing despair to break her, she builds herself into something stronger - the fearless woman and gifted artist that Nick's passion has taught her to be. Yet her heart is in pieces, and despite everything she has, the one thing she needs is the man whose possessive desires and consuming love holds the power to either save them both or shatter her forever...Contains mature themes.

For 100 Reasons was the perfect way to wrap up the love affair between Nick and Avery - to convey the strength of the bond and the relationship they now have. And the addition of Alexander Cendese to narrate Nick's POV ROCKED!

This installment picks up where For 100 Nights ended and then jumps ahead in time a year. The revelations brought to light in Paris regarding how Nick and Avery met were more than Avery could handle. And Nick made a very unselfish move by letting her go.

One year later, neither has moved on so a chance encounter provides the possibility of a second chance. But this time, Nick has to be completely honest, bare himself in all ways and it's difficult for him to make himself that vulnerable.

I enjoyed that For 100 Reasons focused on Nick's past and the things he fears revealing to Avery. His childhood was every bit as traumatic as Avery's and if he reveals his truths, he worries Avery will turn away from him. That it was Avery's turn to prove she'd love him no matter what was a pleasure to experience. Being a fan of character growth and having seen Avery grow and mature over the course of the last two installments. I'm also a sucker for a hero who is flawed but has redeeming qualities. I was thrilled to see Nick do some growing and redeeming himself.

Samantha Morton once again embodied Avery. Her pacing and voices kept me engaged even if there were times when I felt her narration drifted to almost monotone. Alexander Cendese, however, was phenomenal! He truly brought Nick to life. His delivery made for more exciting listening as he was able to incite tension. His voices for female characters were surprisingly varied and well-done and I point this out since his voice is a cross between Sebastian York and Christian Fox. The emotion he evoked was impressive. His narration is more of a dramatic interpretation and I'm a fan! I have already sought out more books narrated by him.

In the end, For 100 Reasons was a wonderful ending for Avery and Nick. I knew I liked Adrian's storytelling capabilities being familiar with her PNR series. After giving this trilogy a go, I'll be sure to pick up more of her contemporaries. 

Audio Review ~ Ever Over After ~ J.A. DeRouen #AudioChallenge #ShelfLove

Ever Over After by J.A. DeRouen
Over Duet #2
Narrated by: Neva Navarre and Jeremy York
Release Date: May 16, 2017
Genre: Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: I received a complimentary copy from Tantor Audio in exchange for an honest review.
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #AudioChallenge, #ShelfLove
Goodreads

Synopsis
Marlo...wild-eyed, untamed, and every single thing I've ever wanted from this life. I wasn't ready for her back then. I was a stupid boy with adult feelings and no idea what to do with them. I squandered away every chance she gave me.

Yes, love like ours either burns white hot or crumbles under the pressure.
And now I'm back to sift through the rubble.

Questions and excuses are two things I have in spades. What I need now are answers.
Answers and Low.
Always Low.

My name is Ever Montgomery, and this is my story of love resurrected.

Low Over High straddled the line between YA and NA but was essentially YA. Ever Over After jumps ahead eight years and firmly into Adult territory. I couldn't wait to dive into this story to see what would become of Low and Ever. DeRouen did not disappoint.

The way DeRouen continues Low and Ever's story was very well done. It felt fluid and she did a great job filling in the few gaps that needed filling over the last eight years so that we understood how Low and Ever came to be where they are...and what it'd take for them to find their way back to one another.

I liked seeing what they'd become in their lives despite the fact that part of their paths were not easy. I liked how DeRouen conveyed the way they'd lived without one another and how they'd not moved on in some ways. It was all very authentic and I loved how they got their second chance.

I didn't mention the emotional roller coaster DeRouen too me on in my review of Low Over High but hopefully it was evident. Ever Over After was equally as emotional if not more so. And DeRouen again proved her prowess with character development creating a new cast of secondary characters along with incorporating a few of the ones we'd already met. I admit that I missed Low's dad and Nana in this installment but Low's friends and Ever's best friend, Jeb, made up for their absence.

Again the narration from Navarre and York kept the story flowing smoothly as well as bringing these characters, whom I've come to adore, to life. I will look for other books narrated by both these voice actors. And, of course, I'll be reading more books from DeRouen!

Audio Review ~ Low Over High ~ J.A. DeRouen #AudioChallenge #ShelfLove

Low Over High by J.A. DeRouen
Over Duet #1
Narrated by: Neva Navarre and Jeremy York
Release Date: April 11, 2017
Genre: Young Adult, Contemporary Romance
Source: I received a complimentary copy from Tantor Audio in exchange for an honest review.
Rating: 4.5 Bookworms
Challenges: #AudioChallenge, #ShelfLove
Goodreads

Synopsis
I fancy myself a purveyor of truth, a sifter of lies, a cutter of bullshit. It's not a gift, but rather, all skill, honed to a razor's edge after one too many trips down the rabbit hole.

Some may dismiss my talent as misplaced and misguided cynicism, but they'd be wrong. Cliches about hope and faith in mankind are concocted unicorn farts, an effort to keep the dreamers dreaming. Experiences don't lie - people do.

While I'm not proud of the circumstances that led me to this way of thinking, I respect the journey. The road to enlightenment can be dark and foreboding, but the destination makes it all worthwhile.

But funny thing about the past - it's a defiant child refusing to stay in time out. No matter how deeply buried, it can always pop up when least expected, and sink its fucking claws into the flesh of your heart. No, not my heart - I no longer have one. I foolishly gave it away years ago, but I still feel the ripping in my chest as I fist the crumpled note left on my porch.

I've avoided this day, ran from it, for the past eight years.
And still we meet again.

But to truly understand...to feel my dread and fear my future as I do, it's important to know what happened in my past.

Or who...

My name is Marlo Rivers, and this is my story of corrupted love.

MATURE AUDIENCES ONLY 18+
Warning: This book contains graphic content which may not be suitable for sensitive readers.

Note: Despite the warning, this book is what I'd consider Young Adult.

I've found a new (to me) author to put on my favorites list! Low Over High - there was just something about it that resonated with me. And I can't wait to hear the rest of the story!

DeRouen created characters in Low (Marlo's nickname) and Ever that I couldn't help but fall for. Low is this feisty girl who can toss insults at the boys like nobody's business. She's always been more of a tomboy so it was also a lot of fun watching her befriend her new roommates at Orleans Academy - who were very girly - as well as Evelyn...her estranged mother. Low is also emotionally stable, having grown up in a loving home surrounded by people who love and support her...the exact opposite of Ever.

Ever is this hot and broody *sigh* young man who clearly has issues. When he and Low meet, they're like oil and water. But as they spend time together - time forced upon them - they become so close and much more than antagonistic acquaintances. But Ever has secrets and when something terrible goes down - something he won't share - Low worries she'll lose him to the ways he employs to escape his demons. And then something equally awful happens to Low that makes her broken on a level equal to Ever.

So the story is compelling and I loathed having to remove my earbuds. DeRouen's writing is flued and she also crafted a secondary cast that gave Low and Ever that much more depth.

I've a new favorite narrator in Neva Navarre as well. She embodied Low and even though she couldn't quite get a New Orleans accent, her voices for the many characters was great. Jeremy York also did well as Ever. His range for female voices lacks but it doesn't detract from the story. 

On to Ever Over After!

Audio Review ~ The Gift ~ Dannika Dark #AudioChallenge #ShelfLove #TravelingtotheTerminus

The Gift by Dannika Dark
Mageri Series #5.5
Narrated by: Nicole Poole
Release Date: December 6, 2016
Genre: Adult, Urban Fantasy, Paranormal Romance
Source: I received a complimentary copy from Tantor Audio in exchange for an honest review.
Rating: 4 Bookworms
Challenges: #AudioChallenge, #ShelfLove, #TravelingtotheTerminus
Goodreads

Synopsis
Despite a powerful snowstorm that has shut down the city, Silver and the Mageri crew are preparing to spend a peaceful holiday at home, surrounded by family, food, and merriment. But the party comes to an abrupt end when Logan receives an unexpected call, one that forces him to make a life-changing decision that could affect his relationship with Silver forever. Can they find the courage to weather the storm? Lives are at risk in this compelling and heartwarming story about the remarkable journey of love.

The Gift was, well a gift. :) It's been about three years since the end of Shine and DDark gives us a little glimpse of where all the characters are at this point in time.

It's Christmas and Silver is hosting everyone for dinner. This in itself was entertaining since she's never been all that handy in the kitchen. Over the course of the days of preparation for the event as well as the actual celebrating of Christmas we learn how life has been impacted by the events in Shine and how Silver, Logan, Justus, Adam, Finn - well, the whole gang - has adjusted and grown in their new lives. 

There was no pulse-pounding action but DDark sure delivers a little suspense by having us wonder if everyone will end up getting what they're wanting and needing. It was a delight to see the dynamics between everyone as well as witnessing how their lives have evolved. And, of course, being a part of wishes being granted made it that much more special. DDark managed to wring a few tears from me. The Gift was simply a sweet read...er, listen. 

Nicole Poole, as always, did a tremendous job with the narrating. She kept the story flowing and her voices distinct and consistent. She brings these stories to life!

Audio Review ~ The Lawrence Browne Affair ~ Cat Sebastian #AudioChallenge, #ShelfLove

The Lawrence Browne Affair by Cat Sebastian
The Turner Series #2
Narrated by: Gary Furlong
Release Date: June 20, 2017
Genre: Adult, Historical Romance, M/M Romance
Source: I received a complimentary copy from Tantor Audio. This did not affect my rating and my review is voluntarily provided. 
Rating: 4 Bookworms
Challenges: #AudioChallenge, #ShelfLove
Goodreads

Synopsis
An earl hiding from his future...Lawrence Browne, the Earl of Radnor, is mad. At least, that's what he and most of the village believes. A brilliant scientist, he hides himself away in his family's crumbling estate, unwilling to venture into the outside world. When an annoyingly handsome man arrives at Penkellis, claiming to be Lawrence's new secretary, his carefully planned world is turned upside down. 
A swindler haunted by his past...Georgie Turner has made his life pretending to be anyone but himself. A swindler and con man, he can slip into an identity faster than he can change clothes. But when his long-dead conscience resurrects and a dangerous associate is out for blood, Georgie escapes to the wilds of Cornwall. Pretending to be a secretary should be easy, but he doesn't expect that the only madness he finds is the one he has for the gorgeous earl. 
Can they find forever in the wreckage of their lives? Challenging each other at every turn, the two men soon give into the desire that threatens to overwhelm them. But with one man convinced he is at the very brink of madness and the other hiding his real identity, only true love can make this an affair to remember.

I admit to having chosen The Lawrence Browne Affair because I was intrigued with an M/M historical romance. What a pleasant surprise this story was! 

Highlights:

• Characters/Character Development
  Man! CSebastian did an impressive job of developing both Lawrence and Georgie. Lawrence inherited an Earldom. His father and older brother were known to be mad and indluged in some wickedness (and not the good kind) as part of their madness.
  Laurence has always believed he is or would go mad himself because of his sexual preferences and due to things about his behavior that his father deemed odd. Honestly, I believe Lawrence was a genius or a savant as well as autistic or maybe agoraphobic. I adored how over the course of the story Georgie was able to figure out how to handle Lawrence's "quirks" and convince him he wasn't mad and was also worthy of people's company and care.
  Georgie is a crook. A crook with a heart though and that heart has him on the run from an associate. He comes to Penkellis to determine Lawrence's mental state for some who are questioning it. Georgie at first is thinking only of himself - saving his hide - so it was a delight to watch as he proved he was redeemable.
• Romance
  CSebastian created a compelling slow-burn romance between Lawrence and Georgie. Witnessing as they became close and came to care for one another was something I was loathe to stop listening to. As this was my first M/M historical romance, I must say I was impressed with how CSebastian crafted the story.
• Story
  Like I said, CSebastian wove a captivating story around Lawrence and Georgie - Lawrence being an inventor of sorts and Georgie generally stealing from whomever he can - until now. There was also how they learned to deal with each others' personalities, their insecurities, and the reasons behind how they were and how they lived. It was all fascinating!

Honestly, there was so much to like about this story. And the narrator, Gary Furlong, also did an excellent job. He kept the pace just right and managed the voices for each character very well - even the female ones. I will absolutely read more CSebastian and listen to more GFurlong!