Worth the Chance by Vi Keeland…Review & Tour

by Jilly

Book links:

Amazon | Kobo | Itunes | Smashwords | Barnes & Noble

Synopsis:

Meet Liv Michaels

It may have been seven years, but I’d know him anywhere. Sure, he’s grown, filled out in all the right places, but his captivating blue eyes and cocky grin are exactly the way I remember. Even though I’d much rather forget.

Liv Michaels is almost there. She’s smart, determined and weeks away from landing the job she’s dreamed about for years. Time healed old wounds, even her broken heart from the devastation of being crushed by her first love.

Meet Vince Stone

Women love a fighter, especially a good one. Lucky for me, I’m damn good. But there’s one woman that isn’t interested. Not again, anyway.

Vince ‘The Invincible’ Stone is every woman’s fantasy…strong, sexy, confident and completely in control. Growing up surrounded by chaos, he’s learned never to get too attached. Love will drag you down. He adores women, treats them well, puts their own needs before his own…for the night anyway. With the biggest fight of his life coming up, his focus should be on training.

When fate brings Vince & Liv back together again, there’s no denying the chemistry is still there. But can Vince erase the old scars their past left behind? Or will Liv hurt him instead?

My review:

Worth the Chance is the second book in author Vi Keeland’s MMA Fighter Series and follows Worth the Fight, a book I simply adored. I was beyond excited for this book and I have to say…it was freaking amazing.

Vince Stone, or Vinny as some people know him, has got a chip on his shoulder a mile wide and the fight to back it up. He’s as skilled an MMA fighter as all of the best and he knows it. He’s had a pretty crappy life and fighting in the ring has saved him from a pretty bleak fate. The ring and Nico. Nico, the only father figure he’s ever known. His mother is a drug addict and has been less than worthless his whole life. He’s finally got his life somewhat together with a killer fight record, a whole lot of success with the ladies, teaching some classes at the gym, and keeping out of trouble. Besides his fighting, he’s only ever had one other bright spot in his life. A girl who helped tutor him in high school. A girl he fell in love with seven years earlier. A girl he knew deserved better than him…so he left her without a reason or a backward glance. A girl he’s regretted not having a chance with. A girl who just walked into one of his classes. Could fate finally be smiling down on him and be giving him a second chance? Does he truly deserve it?

Just about to land her dream job as a reporter for one of the biggest newspapers around, Liv Michaels has one more assignment before the final decision is made and she hopefully goes from intern to official reporter. Of course the last person she expected to see when walking into the gym for her assignment was Vinny. And of course HE was the one she was supposed to interview for her last big assignment. She wasn’t the same young and awkward girl anymore. Hopefully he wouldn’t recognize her. She sure as hell wasn’t ready to face the memories of the pain his rejection had caused her seven years earlier. She thought they had something between them back then but now, hindsight being 20/20 and all, she realizes there was no way the deliciously sexy fighter could have shared her feelings back then. Now she just needed to get through this class and get the hell out, unnoticed. Liv should have known it wouldn’t be that easy and trying to remember why it is she’s supposed to hate Vinny isn’t proving to be easy either. Not when he’s looking at her like she’s dessert. She couldn’t resist him back then and she her resolve to resist him now is looking pretty shaky too.

The history between Liv and Vinny proves to be a blessing and a curse for them. A blessing because the whole “get to know you better’ phase is out the window and a curse because all the old feelings of hurt surface almost killing their chance at a reconciliation. Luckily Vinny is one hell of a persistent guy and is used to getting his way….and his way is having Liv in his life. Permanently.

Oh my. You’ll have to give me a minute here. Just remembering this book while writing this review is enough to have me swooning and getting totally distracted. I LOVED this book. Yes, LOVED, in shouty caps. Vinny is the guy from the wrong side of the tracks, trying his hardest to just stay out of trouble with a huge heart buried deep down beneath a gruff (and gorgeous) exterior. He broke my heart more than once. He takes care of his junkie mother, even though he knows there’s no hope for her. He hangs onto the memory of his dead war hero father by wearing his dad’s dog tags and even though he has a tough time showing it, loves Nico and Elle. He’s harder on himself than anyone else and his belief that he wasn’t good enough for Liv back in high school killed me. God, I love him! Liv is one hell of a perfect match for Vinny. She’s been hurt by him in the past and is wary to start anything up again with him. Thankfully she gives him another chance. She is smart and sassy and takes Vinny on toe-to-toe and I loved every minute. They are hot and beyond sexy together. He needs to dominate their intimacy and she gives in willingly and it works so delectably well. YUM!

So yes, Liv and Vinny are freaking amazing but besides that, Vi throws a huge twist in toward the end and I literally said “HOLY HELL” when I read it. My lips are sealed, but I have to say, the added element to their story made me a nervous wreck and left me emotional and crying when I got to the end. Of course, I love that and it made Liv and Vinny’s story even better and their ending even sweeter.

Ms. Keeland is an author I know we will be seeing great things from because damn, that woman can write! I enjoyed every minute of this book. I never felt something was missing or was rushed or went too slow. The characters are well developed and interesting and I was invested in them from the first chapter. Oh, how I love that feeling!

Thank you, Vi, for another hot, sexy, raw, emotional, and gripping story. I can’t wait to see what you have in store for us next!

Five Loves

Giveaway:

(8) Sets of “Bookchick glasses” and 5 custom wine charms, one of each of Vi Keeland’s book covers – International

a Rafflecopter giveaway

About the author:

Vi Keeland is a native New Yorker with three children that occupy most of her free time, which she complains about often, but wouldn’t change for the world. She is a bookworm and has been known to read her kindle at stop lights, while styling her hair, cleaning, walking, during sporting events, and frequently while pretending to work. She is a boring attorney by day, and an exciting smut author by night!

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

February 2014 New Releases New Reviews

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Four Years Later by Monica Murphy…Chapters 1 & 2 Reveal

by Jilly

We are beyond excited to bring you the first two chapters of Monica Murphy’s FOUR YEARS LATER!!! FOUR YEARS LATER is a New Adult Contemporary Romance and is the final book in the Drew+Fable Series!!! It is being released on March 4^th, 2014. Add it to your TBR pile ASAP!

FOUR YEARS LATER Synopsis: New Adult bestselling author Monica Murphy winds up her sensational series with this sexy story of two college kids with nothing in common but a bunch of baggage and a burning attraction.

Over. That about sums up everything in my life. Suspended from my college football team and forced to cut back my hours at The District bar because of my crappy grades, I can’t keep turning to my sister, Fable, and her pro-football playing husband, Drew, to bail me out. I just can’t seem to find my own way. Weed and sex are irresistible temptations—and it’s messed up that I secretly hand over money to our junkie mom. A tutor is the last thing I want right now—until I get a look at her. Chelsea is not my type at all. She’s smart and totally shy. I’m pretty sure she’s even a virgin. But when she gives me the once over with those piercing blue eyes, I’m really over. But in a different way. I won’t deny her ass is killer, but it’s her brain and the way she seems to crave love—like no one’s ever given her any—that make me want her more than any girl I’ve ever met. But what would someone as seemingly together as her ever see in a screwed up guy like me?

EXCERPT: Four Years Later by Monica

Murphy, Excerpt

Amazon Preorder ~ Barnes and Noble Preorder

ABOUT MONICA MURPHY: New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Monica Murphy is a native Californian who lives in the foothills below Yosemite. A wife and mother of three, she writes New Adult and contemporary romance for Bantam and Avon. She is the author of One Week Girlfriend and Second Chance Boyfriend.

Links:

Website: http://www.monicamurphyauthor.com/#

Blog: http://missmonicamurphy.blogspot.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MsMonicaMurphy

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/MonicaMurphyauthor

Author Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5934418.Monica_Murphy

Amazon Author page: http://www.amazon.com/Monica-Murphy/e/B00AVPYIGG

FOUR YEARS LATER Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17978533-four-years-later?ac=1

Chapter reveal February 2014

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Cover Reveal…Waiting for Prince Harry by Aven Ellis

by Jilly

Synopsis:

Twenty-four-year-old Kylie Reed has always been a rule follower. Organized and cautious to a fault, her dreams for life are often filed away for future use—when she has a house, when she meets her future husband, when she has been at her visual display job at a chic Dallas boutique longer…Kylie always has a reason for living her life in the future, not in the present, and not living her life to the fullest and reaching her dream of becoming a fashion designer.

The only exception to rules, of course, would be running away with Prince Harry—Kylie’s ideal man. A hot, fun ginger boy would be worth breaking all the rules for, of course. And Kylie is sure Harry just needs the right, centering woman to settle him down. But living in Dallas and not knowing Prince Harry make this a non-option.

Or does it?

Because when Kylie accidentally falls into the lap of a gorgeous ginger boy—yes, even more gorgeous than the real Prince Harry—all bets are off. Could this stranger be the one to show Kylie how to take a chance, to face her fears, and live in the present? And could this stranger be the Prince Harry she has been waiting for? Kylie’s life takes some unexpected twists and turns thanks to this chance encounter, and she knows her life will never be the same because of it…

About the author:

Aven Ellis has been writing fiction since she was sixteen. She studied communications at a large Midwestern university, and after graduation, Aven worked as a reporter for a community newspaper, followed by a stint at a public relations agency.

But writing about city council meetings and restaurant franchises was not as much fun as writing for young women trying to figure out their careers and potential boyfriends. So Aven got herself a job in television that allowed her to write at night. Connectivity is Aven’s debut novel; Waiting For Prince Harry and Chronicles of a Lincoln Park Fashionista (New Adult romantic comedy) will be published next year.

Aven lives in Dallas with her family. When she is not writing, Aven enjoys shopping, cooking, connecting with friends on social media, and watching any show that features Gordon Ramsay.

Goodreads ~ Website ~ Twitter ~ Facebook

Cover Reveal

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The Darkest Joy by Marata Eros….ARC Review & Giveaway

by Jilly

The Darkest Joy releases February 18th

Book links:

Amazon ~ Barnes & Noble ~ Goodreads

Synopsis:

A sexy and poignant new adult novel from New York Times bestseller Marata Eros, about two lost souls who find each other in the wake of tragedy, only to learn that love may not be enough to heal the wounds of a dark and tortured past…

Twenty year-old Brooke Starr has escaped the aftermath of a brutal tragedy by abandoning her music studies and moving north to take a summer position as a part-time deck hand on a deep-sea fishing boat. When her survivor’s guilt becomes unbearable, Brooke realizes there’s only one thing she can do to finally erase the pain.

Deep sea fisherman, Chance Taylor, has just wrapped his guitar set at the local saloon when he sees the silhouette of a young woman in repose, the full moon highlighting her shadow as she plummets from a pier too high for diving… into water too cold to survive. Without thinking, he plunges in after her, saving Brooke from drowning.

As Chance works to save her from her own emotional fragility, Brooke finally begins to learn how to save herself. But when their chemistry begins to consume them, Brooke withdraws. She’s determined to be the master of her own destiny… until the past catches up with her in a cataclysmic plan so dark, so final… it threatens their love and their very lives.

My review:

The Darkest Joy is the newest work from author Marata Eros. This story pulled me in from the very first chapter and kept hold until the amazing ending.

Gifted and talented young pianist Brooke Starr is dealing with more grief than possibly imaginable. Her entire family has been brutally murdered and she is left with no one. It’s because of this loss that she decides to give up everything and head to her late aunt’s cabin in Alaska and try to make sense of things. Try to overcome the unimaginable pain and grief. Of course that is easier said than done and she finds herself slipping deeper into a dark depression. She has found work on a fishing charter as a deck hand and hopes that is the distraction she needs. It’s there that she meets Chance Taylor, the owner of the charter. Chance will prove to be more than a boss when he saves her from her lowest point and starts to breathe life back into her broken soul.

Chance Taylor has lived his life for the sea. It’s where he feels most at home and at peace. In small town Alaska, there isn’t much more to life and that is ok with him. Being a single guy, he didn’t need the hassle of love and relationships and loved the freedom the ocean gave him. That all changes when he meets the new deck hand he hired. Sure he knew it was a girl, but he never expected the broken and fragile beauty that walks into his office. There is a pain within her he can sense…and relate to. He had no idea when he first met her that her pain would affect them both and end up bringing them together and finally give Brooke a chance to heal.

Together, Brooke and Chance make their way through the choppy waters of grief and pain and find a safe haven from the storm in one another’s arms. But there’s still one problem lingering….her family’s unsolved murder and an investigation into a similar murder. Will the nightmare for Brooke ever come to an end?

This book started out with heartbreak and slowly grew into something beautiful. It was gut-wrenching to read Brooke’s attempt at healing and moving on. She is such a lost soul. I admired her attempt to pick up the pieces and find solace in Alaska. For a young woman, she had immense strength. I also admired her willingness to embrace life again after the death of her family. Yes, there were many dark moments and she didn’t have a whole lot of hope in the beginning of the story but she eventually snapped out of it and it wanted to hug her! Chance is amazing. He’s strong and understanding with an insight into Brooke’s heart that had me swooning. They work so well together and create a beautiful match.

Oh, and I can’t forget to mention the suspense of the murder investigation! We knew there was a possible serial killer out there but were really kept guessing until the very end. Ms. Eros did such a fabulous job with not giving out too many details and letting the reader draw their own ideas….until about the last 20 pages. Then puzzle pieces really start to fall into place and it was a huge “whoa” moment when we learn the killer’s identity. Really well done!

Overall, I really enjoyed all of the different emotional layers within this story and recommend to all you romance and mystery fans! Thank you, Marata, for a wonderful read!

Four Loves

Giveaway:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

About the author:

My name is Tamara Rose Blodgett and I write dark romantic erotica and new adult dark romantic suspense under the pen name Marata Eros, and new adult dark fantasy under my real name.

Reader feedback is important and I take it very seriously. I check my email each day. All questions about my dark erotica and romance should be directed to the above email address.

*As an aside, I just wanted to comment that: I am writing what I love to read. I enjoy dark paranormal and edgy romantic erotica with suspense and intrigue.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter

February 2014 Giveaway New Releases New Reviews

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Crimson Twilight by Heather Graham eBook GIVEAWAY

by Jilly

Happy Weekend!

To start your weekend off right, I have FIVE kindle copies of Heather Graham’s CRIMSON TWILIGHT to give away! (if you don’t have a kindle, not to worry! You can download free Kindle reading apps HERE)

Enter to win in the rafflceopter below…the contest runs through midnight next Sunday and winners will be announced Monday, February 24th.

Thanks for stopping by!

I also had the pleasure of interviewing Heater for the 1,001 Dark Nights Newsletter…. here is a peek:

What has been your most satisfying book to finish, whether it was because you completely adored it or because it was frustrating and you were happy to finally type “The End”?

LOL. I’m never sure how I feel—insecure still, I think. But on every book, yes—the end is satisfying. Except that after “the end,” I sometimes go back because I think about it and worry that every thread wasn’t tied.

When you’re writing a series, do you already know how many books you’d like it to be before you begin or do you write and see where the series leads you?

I’ve done series that were planned as trilogies—but I don’t like to put “this is it” on anything—you never know what you’ll feel you should be doing in the future.

I truly admire your work with the USO and our wounded heroes. Can you give us one of your favorite recent moments while working with the organizations?

I had two exceptional moments. When I was in Kuwait with my incredible group of authors—Kathleen Antrim, F. Paul Wilson, Harlan Cobin, and Phillip Margulies—a serviceman came up to me and asked me to come with him. His girlfriend was on the phone and she loved my books. I thought it was so wonderful and touching that he’d be about to go “down range” into the war zones and he was thrilled to do something for her. (And she was lovely!) Another moment came when were at the hospital at Ramstadt. A soldier there was waiting for us with his notepad and pen—he plans on writing, fantasy, and he showed us his intended world and listened to every word we had to say. It was truly wonderful to feel that we could really help someone. Also, at the gala, we were privileged to walk the awards on stage—and I brought out the award for the Navy. My dad was Navy, and it just made it all the more special to me. All of our men and women in the service are incredible—hearing of the valor of the men and women honored was a time that made me both tremble—and find faith that yes, humanity can outweigh the bad in the world.

What horror/thriller movies from when you were younger made the biggest impact on your writing style?

Edgar Alan Poe and Hammer films! Richard Mathieson and the Twilight Zone. Also, loved H.P. Lovecraft and every gothic novel out there. Mary Stewart, Victoria Holt, Dorothy Eden . . . Rebecca!

What would be the ultimate place for you to be able to go ghost hunting?

I’m lucky; I’ve gotten to go many places already. Ah! Castle Leslie in Ireland—it’s a B&B and supposedly the most haunted castle in the area.

What made you choose Sloan and Jane for your 1,001 Dark Nights novella?

When I spoke with Liz and M.J., their names just popped into my head!

You can find the entire interview HERE

a Rafflecopter giveaway

About 1,001 Dark Nights:

1001 Dark Nights is a collection of novellas that are breathtakingly sexy and magically romantic. Some are paranormal, some are erotic. Each and every one is compelling and page turning.

Inspired by the exotic tales of The Arabian Nights, 1001 Dark Nights features 12 New York Times and USA Today bestselling authors.

In the original, Scheherazade desperately attempts to entertain her husband, the King of Persia, with nightly stories so that he will postpone her execution.

In our versions, month after month, each of our fabulous authors puts a unique spin on the premise and creates a tale that a new Scheherazade tells long into the dark, dark night.

Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Pinterest

About the author:

Heather Graham New York Times and USA Today best selling author, Heather Graham, majored in theater arts at the University of South Florida. Her first book was with Dell, and since then, she has written over one hundred novels and novellas including category, suspense, historical romance, vampire fiction, time travel, occult and Christmas family fare. She is pleased to have been published in approximately twenty languages. She has been honored with awards from Walden Books, B. Dalton, Georgia Romance Writers, Affaire de Coeur, Romantic Times and more. Heather has also become the proud recipient of the Silver Bullet from Thriller Writers. Heather has had books selected for the Doubleday Book Club and the Literary Guild, and has been quoted, interviewed, or featured in such publications as The Nation, Redbook, Mystery Book Club, People and USA Today and appeared on many newscasts including Today, Entertainment Tonight and local television. The Unseen, The Unholy, The Unspoken and the Uninvited are available now. Let the Dead Sleep will be released in March, 2013. The Night is Watching, The Night is Alive and The Night is Forever will be released in Jne, August and October.

Blog ~ Website ~ Twitter ~ Facebook ~ Goodreads

February 2014 Giveaway

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Liabilities by Shannon Dermott…Blog Tour Stop & Excerpt

by Jilly

Welcome to my stop on the Liabilities by Shannon Dermott Blog Tour!

I have a fantastic excerpt to share with you all as well as the tour-wide giveaway…

Thanks for stopping by and enjoy!

Book links:

Synopsis:

Trying to put distance between her and Kalen won’t be easy for Bailey. She doesn’t expect that her life will get more complicated when she heads home. At first glance, she knows she’s made a calculated mistake. Turner is everything he had been and more. With her heart out of balance, she risks becoming a liability to everyone surrounding her.

Excerpt:

A soft kiss to my neck and a warm body to my back made me squirm. “Lass, you’ve spoiled any chance of me getting a good night sleep without your body next to mine.”

His lips moved lower and forced a giggle from me. “You’ll do just fine without me.”

“Never,” he declared. His brogue so thick, it rumbled from his chest into my back. “I’ll never let you go, lass. You belong to me.”

Lips kissed the nape of my neck and slowly slid down my spine. Firm hands spread my legs and one eager finger submerged into my wet heat. I gasped. “Oh,” I moaned. Another finger slid inside, I could feel the fullness in me. But Kalen was thicker than that. He shoved another and a cry left my lips.

“Are you ready for me, lass?”

“Yes,” I breathed.

Giveaway:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

About the author:

Shannon Dermott considers herself a native nomad. During her youthful years she’s lived in a number of places around the United States. However, she considers herself a southern girl. Shannon’s first love is reading, diving into other realities to explore and brave new adventures. To share her writing is the best experience of all. She writes for both young adults and adults whether it’s contemporary or paranormal, it’s focuses on romance. When she’s not writing or reading, she can be found hanging out with her family of five, her husband and three kids. She now resides on the east coast of the United States, or maybe more apt is stuck in her office chair.

Website – www.shannondermott.com

Blog – www.shannondermott.net

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/pages/Shannon-Dermott/237824696261512

Twitter – https://twitter.com/Shannondermott

Google + – https://plus.google.com/+ShannonDermott/posts

Goodreads – https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5121644.Shannon_Dermott?from_search=true

Goodreads- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17452340-liabilities?from_search=true

Blog Tour February 2014

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Valentine’s Day in the Line of Duty with Tessa Bailey

by Jilly

(Oh, I am so excited for this!)

As many of you know, I abso-freaking-loutely ADORE Tessa Bailey and her alpha males. She writes some of the best I’ve ever read. And their hot and sexy dirty talk? Second to none.

Well, here it is, Valentine’s Day, and I have to admit I am so NOT a flowers and poetry kind of gal which may be why I love Tessa’s guys so much. Because those men are anything but flowers and poetry….thank all things holy! They are as manly and alpha as you can get and yum, they are perfection. I had a hard time choosing just ONE to hang with on Valentine’s Day, so I figured we could spend it with all of them. You’re welcome!

To celebrate, I’ve got Tessa’s favorite lines from each book and for the icing on the cake? Matt stopped by and wrote a little valentine for Lucy *swoon*

Oh, and I can’t forget the giveaway! A $50 Amazon Gift Card and silver handcuff necklace will go to one lucky winner.

Thanks so much for stopping by and ENJOY!

Protecting What’s His (Derek)

“Baby, if I’m going to take you into a room full of men wearing that dress, I’m damn well going to be the only one who knows the color of your panties.”

His Risk to Take (Troy)

“Yes. But don’t worry, baby.” Before she could register his intention, he’d swung her up into his arms. “Even with your panties on, it’ll still be the best sex of your life.”

Officer Off Limits (Daniel – inner thoughts)

Good Lord, baby, Say my name again. I need you to say it in your sleep. When you touch yourself. To no one in particular. Just say it, say it, say it.

Asking for Trouble (Brent)

“You made this fucking sound, Hayden. The first time you spread your legs to take my cock. I hear it everywhere I go. This goddamn…moan? Sob? I don’t know. All I know is if I don’t fuck that sound out of you again soon, I’m going to completely lose my mind.”

Staking His Claim (Matt)

“Trust me to be obsessed with making you come, Lucy.”

…ready to swoon?

An exclusive for you!

Matt’s Valentine’s Day card to Lucy….

Giveaway:

I am giving away a silver handcuff necklace, a “Be safe at night, sleep with a cop” tshirt and a $50 Amazon gift card to one lucky winner!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Exclusive February 2014 Giveaway

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The Deep End of the Sea by Heather Lyons….Release Day Event

by Jilly

Book links:

Amazon ~ Goodreads

Synopsis:

What if all the legends you’ve learned were wrong?

Brutally attacked by one god and unfairly cursed by another she faithfully served, Medusa has spent the last two thousand years living out her punishment on an enchanted isle in the Aegean Sea. A far cry from the monster legends depict, she’s spent her time educating herself, gardening, and desperately trying to frighten away adventure seekers who occasionally end up, much to her dismay, as statues when they manage to catch her off guard. As time marches on without her, Medusa wishes for nothing more than to be given a second chance at a life stolen away at far too young an age.

But then comes a day when Hermes, one of the few friends she still has and the only deity she trusts, petitions the rest of the gods and goddesses to reverse the curse. Thus begins a journey toward healing and redemption, of reclaiming a life after tragedy, and of just how powerful friendship and love can be—because sometimes, you have to sink in the deep end of the sea before you can rise back up again.

Excerpt:

“Where are Hades and Persephone?” I ask, glancing around the empty living room. They are nowhere to be seen tonight; neither are any of the Automatons.

The corner of Hermes’ mouth quirks. “Out. Possibly in the Underworld. One never knows with those two.”

Relief unfurls in the muscles in my shoulders. Still, I can’t help but ask, “Without saying goodbye?”

He’s definitely amused. “Shall I fetch them for you?”

“No!” My answer is too quick, which I fear broadcasts just how ecstatic I am at the thought of being along with Hermes right now. And that realization causes me to blush for the millionth time around him in the last month, so I clarify, “Of course not. I was just curious.”

“Curiosity killed the cat, you know.” To my delight, his hand finds mine and our fingers intertwine. It is a delicious sensation: his hand, warm and worn in mine in just such a way that feels like it’s an extension of my body.

It must be criminal to adore touching someone so much.

“Did it, though?” I ask, and he laughs a burst of exasperated air.

“Possibly, but then again, who am I to judge, when I am often struck by curiosity that I cannot help but sate?” He gives me that dazzling grin of his and pulls me through the house. “Case in point: you.”

“Me?” I squeak unattractively. There are lights ahead through the French doors leading to the patio, and I am curious myself enough to wonder what they are, but not nearly as much as I am for what he might mean.

“Yes, you.” He glances back at me. “I’ve never told you that I was overcome with curiosity when I heard Athena cursed some girl from one of her temples. It wasn’t like it was the first time she’d gone vindictively bonkers, but she was really put out over you. I mean . . . one of her followers? Even that was low for her.” His fingers squeeze mine gently and we stop about twenty feet from the doors. “When I first showed up on your island . . .”

I am helpless at looking anywhere but in his eyes. Tonight, they’re green. Vivid, beautiful, clear green. “Yes?”

“I’d been warned that you were a monster and that I best keep my distance. That you would slay me at the slightest provocation, and naturally, I believed it, as I could not blame anyone’s hatred toward my family after what my sister and uncle had done to you. But once Death handed me that first soul and departed, I heard you crying. My curiosity inflamed tenfold. What kind of so-called monster weeps like her heart had shattered and never would form whole again?”

Like clockwork, my cheeks burn. His fingers brush my reddened skin ever so gently before I turn my face to rest in his hand. The butterflies in my chest swarm frantically. “My sister misjudged you. I knew that the very second I heard your anguish. I’m afraid I was lost to you from that moment on. I had to discover all that made you you, even if I would suffer the same fate as the proverbial cat. And I never cared about the risks, as long as my curiosity about you was sated first.”

“Truly?” The word barely escapes my lips.

His eyes are so intense. “Truly.”

Giveaway:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

About the author:

Heather Lyons has always had a thing for words—She’s been writing stories since she was a kid. In addition to writing, she’s also been an archaeologist and a teacher. Heather is a rabid music fan, as evidenced by her (mostly) music-centric blog, and she’s married to an even larger music snob. They’re happily raising three kids who are mini music fiends who love to read and be read to.

Website: http://www.heatherlyons.net

Author Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/heatherlyons

Twitter: https://twitter.com/hymheather

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heatherlyonsbooks?fref=ts

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/hymheather/

February 2014 Release Day Event

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Cover Reveal…Wanted by You by Steph Nuss

by Jilly

Steph Nuss

Title: Wanted by You

Series: Love in the City – Book #1

Steph Nuss and Bandit Publishing are excited to share with you the Cover Reveal for Wanted by You by Steph Nuss. Make sure to join us at the Release Day and Blog Tour Event starting on February 27th – join by clicking the below link.

TO BE RELEASED: FEBRUARY 27th

Carter was captivated by Ellyson Evans the moment he laid eyes on her,

but she was the one girl who didn’t beg for his attention.

He wanted her.

Ellyson vowed to never fall in love, because love can destroy you,

but then she met Carter Jennings.

She wanted him.

Unwilling to risk their comfortable friendship, neither confessed their desires.

Losing touch after college, a chance meeting reconnects them.

They want each other.

But love in the city is never quite that easy.

Steph Nuss was born and raised in rural Kansas, where she currently resides with her black Labrador son named Gunner. She grew up with a passion for reading and writing. When she’s not immersed into the land of fiction, she enjoys listening to music that came before her time, watching movies and reruns of her favorite shows, and hanging out with her family and friends. She also has a bachelor’s degree in psychology that she’ll never use…unless she’s profiling her characters of course.

Website: http://stephnuss.com/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/StephNussAuthor

Twitter: https://twitter.com/StephNuss13

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7392900.Steph_Nuss

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/StephNuss13/

Cover Reveal February 2014

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ARC Review….A Matchless Romance by Christi Barth

by Jilly

A Matchless Romance releases February 17

Book links:

Amazon ~ Barnes & Noble ~ Goodreads

Synopsis:

Tabitha Bell is the face of Chicago’s premiere matchmaking service. At least, she hopes it will be someday, once business really takes off. What she needs is more clients, so when she meets a sexy gamer in need of help, it’s the perfect opportunity.

His discomfort talking to women almost cost Drew Watson his job. He’d be happy holed up in his office, designing blockbuster video games, but his boss considers talking to investors a nonnegotiable requirement. Who better than a matchmaker to teach him how to be comfortable around the opposite sex? Trouble is, Drew wants to get more than comfortable with Tabitha, while she’s determined to keep their relationship all business.

Soon Tabitha learns that beneath the geek-chic hoodie lies six feet of sexy physique–and the more time she spends with Drew, the more she appreciates his brainy brand of charm. Will she succumb to his sweet-but-nerdy charm offensive or will it be game over before he can win her heart?

My review:

A Matchless Romance is the final work in author Christi Barth’s Aisle Bound Series, and if I had to vote on my favorite book in the series, this would be it. Oh, how I adored this story!

Video game designer Drew Watson and matchmaker Tabitha Bell meet by running into each other, quite literally, and forge a quick and unlikely friendship and business relationship.

You see, Drew doesn’t have what you would call great social skills and it has almost cost him his biggest career move and almost killed his dream of his newest game hitting mainstream blockbuster status. Enter Tabitha. After almost being run over by Drew, and after a quick chat, Tabitha thinks she may be the one person capable of helping him with his social cluelessness. He wasn’t awkward, per se, just totally clueless. Saying the first thing that came to mind and lacking a filter. Tabitha thought his personality was refreshing, but the big wigs in his company? Not so much. Drew ends up hiring her, not for her match making skills, but to smooth out his rough edges and get him out into the social scene. And always up for a challenge, Tabitha goes for it. She doesn’t really think this will be too hard considering Drew is completely gorgeous with a delicious tall and athletic build and a geeky charm about him that totally works well on him. But the rules in her matchmaking business are pretty strict about dating the clients…so her drool worthy client is off-limits. However, we all know the saying that some rules were meant to be broken…

Where to begin? There were so many little things that I loved in this story. All those little pieces added to the big picture and made up one hell of a great read! Drew is so freaking adorable and deliciously handsome. His geekiness cup overfloweth and it made him an incredibly endearing character. I wanted to hug him too many times to count over some of his dorky antics. But besides his adorable nerdiness, he’s an amazing athlete and has a brilliant mind. Can we say triple threat? Hell yes! The most lovable thing about him though is that he has no clue what a catch he is and just sees himself as a video game nerd. Don’t you just love that type of guy? I know I do! Tabitha was a colorful and spirited character with an interesting past and such confidence. She’s an amazing judge of character and nailed Drew and his quirks from the very first day. The chemistry between them is almost instant and builds beautifully…of course I can’t spoil anything for you so that’s as far as I can go!

Oh, and the ending? In typical Christi fashion, she wrote an ending so fitting and perfect for Drew and Tabitha. Honestly, it was one of the best endings ever! I get a big goofy grin just thinking about it.

We also catch up with the rest of the Aisle Bound crew and it was beautiful and bittersweet. I couldn’t be happier for all of the couples and where their futures are headed.

Thank you, Christi, for a fabulous ending to a series I have truly enjoyed. I can’t wait to see what you have in store for us next!

Five Loves

About the author:

Christi Barth earned a Masters degree in vocal performance and embarked upon a career on the stage.

A love of romance then drew her to wedding planning. Ultimately she succumbed to her lifelong love of books and now writes contemporary romance.

Christi is President of the Maryland Romance Writers and lives in Maryland with her husband.

Website ~ Goodreads ~ Twitter ~ Facebook

February 2014 New Releases New Reviews

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Cover Reveal….Gabby Revealed by Amy Gregory

by Jilly

Title: Gabby Revealed (Finding Perfect #2)

Author: Amy Gregory

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Publication Date: March 25, 2014

Cover Design: The Killion Group, Inc.

Event Organized By: Literati Author Services, Inc.

Synopsis

Gabby James didn’t have the idyllic childhood many in her little hometown of Renlend, Kansas had. High school was a living hell, but when she graduated she couldn’t bring herself to leave Renlend.The town was her prison, but her family’s bookstore, The Looking Glass, was her one true love. It was the place she could run to, and escape the prying eyes of the ones who taunted her.

Shane Compton was a literary agent in one of the most prestigious publishing houses in New York City. He found no greater rush than finding the next big talent, someone who could take the written word and turn it into an art form.In the span of one rude phone call Shane was drawn into the mystery of just who the fiery new author from Kansas was. When everyone else in the office refused to deal with her, Shane willingly accepted the challenge. There was no logic to the madness, but every time he had contact with her, she drove him wild.

Gabby tried every trick in the book to keep Shane at arm’s length, but he had made good on his promise to come to Kansas. He wanted to pull her out of anonymity, he wanted her in the public eye. Now here he stood, on the sidewalk in front her bookstore, and one look told her he was everything she was afraid he’d be. Too bad she was anything but who he thought she was.

Gabby quickly discovers Shane has more on his mind than just books and with a little help from an ornery matchmaker, he shows her a whole new life through her looking glass.

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About the Author

When asked ‘when do you have time to write’, Amy Gregory simply laughs. The real answer is, “in bits and pieces”. She and her husband live in Kansas City with their three fantastic kids that keep them running in three very different directions. Because she sits so much, she always carries a notebook with her at all times.

She has an off the wall, snarky, off the cuff sense of humor that often shocks even those who’ve known her for years. And she loves that her children have all been blessed that ability to make others laugh as well. At least she’s grateful most of the time! Her husband often teases her about how she “makes this stuff up” when he’s reading a piece of her work. … The answer—“it just comes to me when I’m typing”. Scary thought, huh!

Connect with Amy: Facebook | Twitter | Website | Goodreads

Cover Reveal February 2014

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Book Promotion & Review

Book links:

Synopsis:

My review:

Five Loves

Giveaway:

Synopsis:

The Darkest Joy releases February 18th

Book links:

Synopsis:

My review:

Four Loves

Giveaway:

Happy Weekend!

Book links:

Synopsis:

Excerpt:

Giveaway:

Protecting What’s His (Derek)

His Risk to Take (Troy)

Officer Off Limits (Daniel – inner thoughts)

Asking for Trouble (Brent)

Staking His Claim (Matt)

…ready to swoon?

Matt’s Valentine’s Day card to Lucy….

Giveaway:

Book links:

Synopsis:

Excerpt:

Giveaway:

Steph Nuss

Title: Wanted by You

Series: Love in the City – Book #1

TO BE RELEASED: FEBRUARY 27th

A Matchless Romance releases February 17

Book links:

Synopsis:

My review:

Five Loves

Synopsis