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This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
What a wild ride this book was and NOT what I was expecting. I really wasn't sure how this one would compare with book one which I fell in love with. In Shadow Reaper, we have Ricco's book. Ricco is a bit of a mystery, so I was pleased to see that this was his book. At the beginning of this book, Ricco is in big trouble with his siblings. He ends up in a car accident and almost dies from it. So he is slowly recovering from it, but Ricco is also struggling with his past from his training he had to go to in Japan, when he was only 14 years old. And he goes through some life changing events, events that leads him haunted and threatens the life of himself and his family. Our heroine of the story is a fellow rider. Mariko Majo, was lied to growing up and even though she was trained as a rider, she was made to feel by her adopted family weak and incompetent. When her brother is kidnapped, and she it told to kill Ricco to get her brother back, she goes to investigate Ricco. But posing as a rope model for him, she realizes what a good man Ricco is, and she can't trade his life for her brothers ,especially when she doesn't know if killing Ricco would mean getting her brother back.
What I truly liked about this story was seeing a more backstory to the characters. Both Ricco and Mariko, have a strong bond to each other and its just not in the present. They have an important past together, and even though this story was a bit more slow going than book one, I still had a blast with this book and seeing these characters come together. And we get some plenty of fun action between the family members here. We get a bit of a teaser between the sister and Val (I have a feeling that will be a whopper of a read when we get it) and I did love seeing Stefan and Francesca again. And the way they welcome Mariko into the family, despite her not so honorable intentions from the beginning. And I do feel that this book was more exciting in some of the action scenes that are written. I felt as if I was on a roller coaster, and it was very thrilling. The dynamics of the story overall is what really kept me intrigued. It was so wonderful to see this book come together, with the family drama and intrigues, the more complex and depth of characters and the spicy romance. Now I do feel that the romance could have used a bit more juice to it. There was plenty of sex scenes, but I really wanted more of the emotional intimacy between these two, it felt a bit less than book one. Of course, there was quite a bit going on in this book and if you enjoyed book one, I do think you need to pick this one up and fall in love with this fun and thrilling family and I can't wait to see which sibling will be book three. Overall I found Shadow Reaper to be a thrilling adventure of rich Japanese culture, thrills and chills to keep you on the edge and a epic filled romance to give you all the feels!!
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What a wild ride this book was and NOT what I was expecting. I really wasn't sure how this one would compare with book one which I fell in love with. In Shadow Reaper, we have Ricco's book. Ricco is a bit of a mystery, so I was pleased to see that this was his book. At the beginning of this book, Ricco is in big trouble with his siblings. He ends up in a car accident and almost dies from it. So he is slowly recovering from it, but Ricco is also struggling with his past from his training he had to go to in Japan, when he was only 14 years old. And he goes through some life changing events, events that leads him haunted and threatens the life of himself and his family. Our heroine of the story is a fellow rider. Mariko Majo, was lied to growing up and even though she was trained as a rider, she was made to feel by her adopted family weak and incompetent. When her brother is kidnapped, and she it told to kill Ricco to get her brother back, she goes to investigate Ricco. But posing as a rope model for him, she realizes what a good man Ricco is, and she can't trade his life for her brothers ,especially when she doesn't know if killing Ricco would mean getting her brother back.
What I truly liked about this story was seeing a more backstory to the characters. Both Ricco and Mariko, have a strong bond to each other and its just not in the present. They have an important past together, and even though this story was a bit more slow going than book one, I still had a blast with this book and seeing these characters come together. And we get some plenty of fun action between the family members here. We get a bit of a teaser between the sister and Val (I have a feeling that will be a whopper of a read when we get it) and I did love seeing Stefan and Francesca again. And the way they welcome Mariko into the family, despite her not so honorable intentions from the beginning. And I do feel that this book was more exciting in some of the action scenes that are written. I felt as if I was on a roller coaster, and it was very thrilling. The dynamics of the story overall is what really kept me intrigued. It was so wonderful to see this book come together, with the family drama and intrigues, the more complex and depth of characters and the spicy romance. Now I do feel that the romance could have used a bit more juice to it. There was plenty of sex scenes, but I really wanted more of the emotional intimacy between these two, it felt a bit less than book one. Of course, there was quite a bit going on in this book and if you enjoyed book one, I do think you need to pick this one up and fall in love with this fun and thrilling family and I can't wait to see which sibling will be book three. Overall I found Shadow Reaper to be a thrilling adventure of rich Japanese culture, thrills and chills to keep you on the edge and a epic filled romance to give you all the feels!!
You have to know that I want you with every breath I take
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This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
In Ride Wild we have the third installment in the Raven Riders Series....the sexiest and breathtaking series that Laura Kaye has brought to her readers. In every installment we have been given, we get in touch with this unique MC....a group of brothers that love to ride free, have each others backs and never give up on each other.
In this brilliant installment, Ride Wild, is a romance that pulls you in for the wild ride and refuses to let go until your breathless and wanting more. Laura Kaye has outdone herself with Ride Wild. Ever since I read book one Ride Hard I was captivated by these Raven Riders, and with each book, I only become more fascinated by these men and women who steal my heart. In Ride Wild, our story sets off with a character that we have seen since book one but have yet to see her story. A young woman who is carefree, strong willed, and loves a good party. But she has a past, a dark one, just like everyone else that is part of the Raven Riders. Cora Campbell has been babysitting for "Slider" two adorable boys who lost their mother to cancer two years previous. All three boys are still struggling to get back on their feet and find some joy in life again. Cora makes these two young boys come alive, she makes them smile and be happy. But their father is much more complex and will take much more work. Slider also has a past, a secret he has had to keep from everyone, but it haunts him every day. When Slider offers Cora a position as his "nanny" to provide more for himself and his boys, she agrees. But with Cora living in the same house, sparks sly between Slider and Cora and their attraction builds into something more real and permanent. But reality comes crashing down when Cora becomes embroiled in a plot, a dangerous one that could put all their lives in danger and it will take the whole workings of the club and their fellow friends to bring down their enemies and find peace once again.
Oh my goodness...what a story Ride Wild turned out to be and I just couldn't put this one down...not once. I was lucky enough to read this one on my day off. So I could just enjoy the wild ride that Laura Kaye has given us. I have been itching for Cora's book since reading Ride Hard. I have just loved her characters, and how she just draws people to her. You see how her personality brings out the best in people. But in this book, we see a deeper side to her character. We see the demons of her past that become unveiled, and my heart just went out to her. I love seeing how it hasn't broken her, only made her stronger. The charming way she is with Slider's two boys, is so tender at times. I know having kids in a romance may not be for everyone, but honestly Laura Kaye totally worked this element in all the right ways. She had me wishing these two boys were my own. Then we have the romance that builds between Cora and Slider. These two are just made for each other. They really balance each other's strengths and weaknesses in the right way. Of course there are plenty of hot and heated moments between these two but not too much to overkill the plot either. It was simply great seeing these two connect on various levels. Their relationship felt so realistic to me, its probably why I was so captivated by their romance. Slider and Cora are a unique couple, and they just rocked this book in multiple ways.
The plot of the story that really will give you tingles up the spine. Even though I love that Laura Kaye brought this element into the story to give education to the readers, it will still heart wrenching to read. I had no idea that this was even done in the real world, and it only added authenticity to the story. I definitely recommend that readers watch out with Ride Wild because this book will take you on twists and turns, adventures and thrills, with some dangers along the way and a wonderful blend of passion, true love and the great unit that is the Raven Riders. Buckle your seats because this is a ride you won't want to miss!! BREATHTAKING IN EVERY WAY!
In Ride Wild we have the third installment in the Raven Riders Series....the sexiest and breathtaking series that Laura Kaye has brought to her readers. In every installment we have been given, we get in touch with this unique MC....a group of brothers that love to ride free, have each others backs and never give up on each other.
In this brilliant installment, Ride Wild, is a romance that pulls you in for the wild ride and refuses to let go until your breathless and wanting more. Laura Kaye has outdone herself with Ride Wild. Ever since I read book one Ride Hard I was captivated by these Raven Riders, and with each book, I only become more fascinated by these men and women who steal my heart. In Ride Wild, our story sets off with a character that we have seen since book one but have yet to see her story. A young woman who is carefree, strong willed, and loves a good party. But she has a past, a dark one, just like everyone else that is part of the Raven Riders. Cora Campbell has been babysitting for "Slider" two adorable boys who lost their mother to cancer two years previous. All three boys are still struggling to get back on their feet and find some joy in life again. Cora makes these two young boys come alive, she makes them smile and be happy. But their father is much more complex and will take much more work. Slider also has a past, a secret he has had to keep from everyone, but it haunts him every day. When Slider offers Cora a position as his "nanny" to provide more for himself and his boys, she agrees. But with Cora living in the same house, sparks sly between Slider and Cora and their attraction builds into something more real and permanent. But reality comes crashing down when Cora becomes embroiled in a plot, a dangerous one that could put all their lives in danger and it will take the whole workings of the club and their fellow friends to bring down their enemies and find peace once again.
Oh my goodness...what a story Ride Wild turned out to be and I just couldn't put this one down...not once. I was lucky enough to read this one on my day off. So I could just enjoy the wild ride that Laura Kaye has given us. I have been itching for Cora's book since reading Ride Hard. I have just loved her characters, and how she just draws people to her. You see how her personality brings out the best in people. But in this book, we see a deeper side to her character. We see the demons of her past that become unveiled, and my heart just went out to her. I love seeing how it hasn't broken her, only made her stronger. The charming way she is with Slider's two boys, is so tender at times. I know having kids in a romance may not be for everyone, but honestly Laura Kaye totally worked this element in all the right ways. She had me wishing these two boys were my own. Then we have the romance that builds between Cora and Slider. These two are just made for each other. They really balance each other's strengths and weaknesses in the right way. Of course there are plenty of hot and heated moments between these two but not too much to overkill the plot either. It was simply great seeing these two connect on various levels. Their relationship felt so realistic to me, its probably why I was so captivated by their romance. Slider and Cora are a unique couple, and they just rocked this book in multiple ways.
Look at this face. Look into these eyes. And never, ever doubt that you're looking at your biggest fan, your staunchest defender, and the man who will always hold you up and have your back.
The plot of the story that really will give you tingles up the spine. Even though I love that Laura Kaye brought this element into the story to give education to the readers, it will still heart wrenching to read. I had no idea that this was even done in the real world, and it only added authenticity to the story. I definitely recommend that readers watch out with Ride Wild because this book will take you on twists and turns, adventures and thrills, with some dangers along the way and a wonderful blend of passion, true love and the great unit that is the Raven Riders. Buckle your seats because this is a ride you won't want to miss!! BREATHTAKING IN EVERY WAY!
Cora already knew where she belonged. And Slider already knew she was his forever. And they both knew love. So much love.
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
Sophie Darling, has boarded a flight inbound to London for a elite job offer, all expense paid trip and how could she refuse such an opportunity especially when she is surprised to learn that her seat gets bumped up to first class with all the trimmings, except there is one downer, her seat partner is a jerk and offended that he has to sit next to her. Yeah but Sophie is not going to let Mr. High and Mighty get away with his self righteous attitude. But Sophie soon realizes the real reason that Gabriel Scott is not wanting to share the seat next to him, he is terrified of flying but Sophie is bubbly and upbeat and distracts him all the way to London. Sophie is stunned to hear that Mr. Gabriel Scott, is also her boss (kinda) and oh boy is she in trouble, because sparks fly whenever they are close together and not touching him will be torture. Gabriel has set himself apart from others, it protects his heart, and even though he has found a family in the band members, he keeps himself locked away but Sophie has a way of making him open himself up in ways he never imagined...
Gabriel Scott is brilliant with money, enjoys his luxurious comforts and his plentiful choice of homes all over the world but keeps the emotional side of himself locked away where no one can hurt him. Gabriel was once hurt by those he once called family, and had to learn a very hard and bitter lesson in life. He found his new family among the band members, all of whom he will do anything for and protect no matter what. Gabriel is one sexy beast and I have loved his character from book one. And boy was he wonderful as the hero here. Callihan did a tremendous job with his character and I couldn't get enough seeing more depths and grooves to him, and seeing what really makes him tick. And we see some great changes in him, from him being cold and closed off to being honest and open and laughing and sharing affection in public and what a journey.
Sophie Darling, has found what she loves to do and is dang good at and even though she has made a dreadful mistake in the past, she is determined to keep moving forward until that one mistake bites her in the behind upon learning of her new job. Sophie, unlike our hero, had a good upbringing, with loving if not obnoxious parents that adore her. Sophie was a heroine I could get behind and I truly loved the way that her character is totally opposite of Gabriel. She is spunky, bubbly, sweet and fun. She is literally the "life" of the party. But she also has such a likable personality, you just love her instantly.
Managed is the second book in the newest series by Callihan and what a book this one. Now while I did enjoy Idol quite a bit, Managed was by far a way better book in my opinion. First off we have Gabriel Scott as our hero and what a hero he makes. Like truly, swoon worthy, grumpy and dramatic Gabriel that gives you shivers. And our wonderful heroine Sophie handles him so well. Its like she is meant for him, because he learns to relax and be himself with her when he doesn't allow it with anyone else. Granted he can be stubborn and pig headed which causes some ripples between him and Sophie but what FUN ripples they are.
“You should know, I can’t be a fling. Not with you. If you want me, you have to be all in.”
This couple is quite fantastic together. And I will admit this book had me laughing up and down and sideways and all the way in between. We see more of the band members and maybe hints of the "next book" maybe??!! And yeah I love seeing them together again and all of their interactions together. The romance is sexy and sweet and quite a tear jerker at times. This is one of those "opposite attract" stories that end up being AMAZING and curl your toes type of book.
These two are as different as night and day but somehow find their own compromise of sorts and end up being just perfect for each other in the end, but its not an exactly easy road for them. They have their rifts on their road that creates some short stops but they work through it and their relationship becomes even stronger. Yeah I had a blast with this story and eager to see what Callihan comes up with next.
What a pretty pretty cover, I just love the swirl of color here!!
Managed is a sensational and heart stopping romance that rocks your world in the most stimulating and poignant moments....A TRUE GEM!!
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Summary
Sophie Darling, has boarded a flight inbound to London for a elite job offer, all expense paid trip and how could she refuse such an opportunity especially when she is surprised to learn that her seat gets bumped up to first class with all the trimmings, except there is one downer, her seat partner is a jerk and offended that he has to sit next to her. Yeah but Sophie is not going to let Mr. High and Mighty get away with his self righteous attitude. But Sophie soon realizes the real reason that Gabriel Scott is not wanting to share the seat next to him, he is terrified of flying but Sophie is bubbly and upbeat and distracts him all the way to London. Sophie is stunned to hear that Mr. Gabriel Scott, is also her boss (kinda) and oh boy is she in trouble, because sparks fly whenever they are close together and not touching him will be torture. Gabriel has set himself apart from others, it protects his heart, and even though he has found a family in the band members, he keeps himself locked away but Sophie has a way of making him open himself up in ways he never imagined...
The Hero
Gabriel Scott is brilliant with money, enjoys his luxurious comforts and his plentiful choice of homes all over the world but keeps the emotional side of himself locked away where no one can hurt him. Gabriel was once hurt by those he once called family, and had to learn a very hard and bitter lesson in life. He found his new family among the band members, all of whom he will do anything for and protect no matter what. Gabriel is one sexy beast and I have loved his character from book one. And boy was he wonderful as the hero here. Callihan did a tremendous job with his character and I couldn't get enough seeing more depths and grooves to him, and seeing what really makes him tick. And we see some great changes in him, from him being cold and closed off to being honest and open and laughing and sharing affection in public and what a journey.
The Heroine
Sophie Darling, has found what she loves to do and is dang good at and even though she has made a dreadful mistake in the past, she is determined to keep moving forward until that one mistake bites her in the behind upon learning of her new job. Sophie, unlike our hero, had a good upbringing, with loving if not obnoxious parents that adore her. Sophie was a heroine I could get behind and I truly loved the way that her character is totally opposite of Gabriel. She is spunky, bubbly, sweet and fun. She is literally the "life" of the party. But she also has such a likable personality, you just love her instantly.
Plot and Story Line
Managed is the second book in the newest series by Callihan and what a book this one. Now while I did enjoy Idol quite a bit, Managed was by far a way better book in my opinion. First off we have Gabriel Scott as our hero and what a hero he makes. Like truly, swoon worthy, grumpy and dramatic Gabriel that gives you shivers. And our wonderful heroine Sophie handles him so well. Its like she is meant for him, because he learns to relax and be himself with her when he doesn't allow it with anyone else. Granted he can be stubborn and pig headed which causes some ripples between him and Sophie but what FUN ripples they are.
“You should know, I can’t be a fling. Not with you. If you want me, you have to be all in.”
A frown knots his brows, and when he speaks, his voice is a rasp. “I’ve lived my whole life denying myself what I truly want. And yet I cannot turn from you. Haven’t you realized it yet? I am yours. I will always be yours, whether I touch you or not.”
This couple is quite fantastic together. And I will admit this book had me laughing up and down and sideways and all the way in between. We see more of the band members and maybe hints of the "next book" maybe??!! And yeah I love seeing them together again and all of their interactions together. The romance is sexy and sweet and quite a tear jerker at times. This is one of those "opposite attract" stories that end up being AMAZING and curl your toes type of book.
I have never experienced intimacy. I did not know how good it felt to simply be with someone and let everything else melt away. The world can fuck off when I’m with Sophie Darling. There is only us. I don’t have to be anyone else but Gabriel.
These two are as different as night and day but somehow find their own compromise of sorts and end up being just perfect for each other in the end, but its not an exactly easy road for them. They have their rifts on their road that creates some short stops but they work through it and their relationship becomes even stronger. Yeah I had a blast with this story and eager to see what Callihan comes up with next.
The Cover
What a pretty pretty cover, I just love the swirl of color here!!
Overall View
Managed is a sensational and heart stopping romance that rocks your world in the most stimulating and poignant moments....A TRUE GEM!!
“I am a cold man. Any happiness or warmth I’ve felt died when Jax tried to take his life. Until you.” His ragged breath gusts over my cheek. “You are my warmth.”
Click To Buy On Amazon
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This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
Racer is the seventh installment in the Real series by Katy Evans. Now to be honest, I was going to wait to pick this one up. Because I still need to read books five and six but as I kept seeing more reviews pop up of Racer I just couldn't resist on grabbing this one and I am so relieved that I finally did because WOWZERS!! It came almost close to how much I enjoyed Real (and ladies and gents...that is saying something) So what is Racer about and why would I give it a five star read? Well let me tell you what makes this book so great.
The story opens up with our lovely heroine, Lana. She, along with her father and her brothers, are part of a race team. But they are having a run of bad luck, their finances are depleting and her father is getting sick. Lana knows that she needs to do something, to spark some new life. She has always been devoted to her family and taking care of them. So she goes in search of a racer, someone who can breath life to the races and her family again. While searching she comes across underground street racer "Racer" Tate. Racer has always had a passion for racing, it is what gives him purpose in life. It makes him feel alive. When Lana gives him an offer he can't refuse, he goes against his father's recommendation, and travels the world and takes a chance on being a professional racer.
At the beginning, when Lana and Racer first meet there is sexual tension that is off the charts. These two could start a fire alone with just the way they stare at each other. There is a definite connection and Racer knows that Lana is the "one". But he also is wise enough to know that he will need to tread very carefully. Racer isn't afraid of Lana's brothers, if anything he is eager to blow off steam by getting in a fight with them and he is his fathers son after all. Fighting is part of his blood, but he also doesn't want to burn any bridges with Lana. Now Lana's brothers fit the perfect bill for "overprotectiveness" and boy I loved them so much but it was also nice to see Lana stand her ground and go after what she wants and that is Racer.
But he also is wise enough to know that he will need to tread very carefully. Racer isn't afraid of Lana's brothers, if anything he is eager to blow off steam by getting in a fight with them and he is his fathers son after all. Fighting is part of his blood, but he also doesn't want to burn any bridges with Lana. Now Lana's brothers fit the perfect bill for "overprotectiveness" and boy I loved them so much but it was also nice to see Lana stand her ground and go after what she wants and that is Racer.
I was very curious to see how this book would play out, because I had a hard time comparing this book to Real. Because Racer's father (is one of my all time favorite books) and even though Racer wasn't quite as good...it was a close match. I got a kick out of seeing the way Racer is with his family and I think if I wanted something more from this book, it would be more interactions with this family. But of course, the romance is the primary focus (I am totally down with that) and boy what a focus. As many of you know, Katy Evans is a wonderful author and she created a gem of a read here. And she made Racer quite simply delectable and swoon worthy and I just wanted to gobble him all up. Lana is the type of heroine you can see yourself being friends with in real life. She is down to earth, devoted to her family and is self sacrificing and very smart.
Overall Racer is a book that will keep you gasping, clawing for more and yearning for this delicious story that keeps you on your toes and dragging yourself to a race because this book is very motivational!! Katy Evans has worked a wonder with Racer and I loved seeing her take on a racing themed romance....keep em' coming!! :)
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Racer is the seventh installment in the Real series by Katy Evans. Now to be honest, I was going to wait to pick this one up. Because I still need to read books five and six but as I kept seeing more reviews pop up of Racer I just couldn't resist on grabbing this one and I am so relieved that I finally did because WOWZERS!! It came almost close to how much I enjoyed Real (and ladies and gents...that is saying something) So what is Racer about and why would I give it a five star read? Well let me tell you what makes this book so great.
The story opens up with our lovely heroine, Lana. She, along with her father and her brothers, are part of a race team. But they are having a run of bad luck, their finances are depleting and her father is getting sick. Lana knows that she needs to do something, to spark some new life. She has always been devoted to her family and taking care of them. So she goes in search of a racer, someone who can breath life to the races and her family again. While searching she comes across underground street racer "Racer" Tate. Racer has always had a passion for racing, it is what gives him purpose in life. It makes him feel alive. When Lana gives him an offer he can't refuse, he goes against his father's recommendation, and travels the world and takes a chance on being a professional racer.
At the beginning, when Lana and Racer first meet there is sexual tension that is off the charts. These two could start a fire alone with just the way they stare at each other. There is a definite connection and Racer knows that Lana is the "one". But he also is wise enough to know that he will need to tread very carefully. Racer isn't afraid of Lana's brothers, if anything he is eager to blow off steam by getting in a fight with them and he is his fathers son after all. Fighting is part of his blood, but he also doesn't want to burn any bridges with Lana. Now Lana's brothers fit the perfect bill for "overprotectiveness" and boy I loved them so much but it was also nice to see Lana stand her ground and go after what she wants and that is Racer.
There’s something inside of me screaming her name. Something like I’ve known her my whole life. Something the moment I locked eyes on her that whispered, you’re going to marry this chick. This girl is going to own you, and you’re going to own her, and that’s that
But he also is wise enough to know that he will need to tread very carefully. Racer isn't afraid of Lana's brothers, if anything he is eager to blow off steam by getting in a fight with them and he is his fathers son after all. Fighting is part of his blood, but he also doesn't want to burn any bridges with Lana. Now Lana's brothers fit the perfect bill for "overprotectiveness" and boy I loved them so much but it was also nice to see Lana stand her ground and go after what she wants and that is Racer.
I was very curious to see how this book would play out, because I had a hard time comparing this book to Real. Because Racer's father (is one of my all time favorite books) and even though Racer wasn't quite as good...it was a close match. I got a kick out of seeing the way Racer is with his family and I think if I wanted something more from this book, it would be more interactions with this family. But of course, the romance is the primary focus (I am totally down with that) and boy what a focus. As many of you know, Katy Evans is a wonderful author and she created a gem of a read here. And she made Racer quite simply delectable and swoon worthy and I just wanted to gobble him all up. Lana is the type of heroine you can see yourself being friends with in real life. She is down to earth, devoted to her family and is self sacrificing and very smart.
My whole life I’ve guarded against addictions. Driving was my one addiction. Never smoked, don’t drink except socially, eat right, but you, Lana. You’re an addiction I can’t say no to. Don’t want to say no to. If I don’t have you beneath me now I’m going implode on myself
Overall Racer is a book that will keep you gasping, clawing for more and yearning for this delicious story that keeps you on your toes and dragging yourself to a race because this book is very motivational!! Katy Evans has worked a wonder with Racer and I loved seeing her take on a racing themed romance....keep em' coming!! :)
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This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
Shadow and Ice was a book I was SUPER stoked to read. After listening to an interview with Gena Showalter about this upcoming series, I just was really eager to grab this up. So I jumped over to B&N and bought this one in print. I did have this on my nightstand for quite a while before actually grabbing it up. I think I was really NERVOUS, because of how many mixed reviews of this book that there is out there and I just was not wanting to hate a book that I bought in print. But seriously....why oh why did I wait so long to read this because I have three words: It KICKED ASS!! I had so much fun with this book, and I honestly knew that I would because this authors writing always works for me no matter how crazy her stories gets, her writing sucks me right into the story and doesn't let go.
Shadow and Ice isn't an easy book though and its NOT for the faint of heart, and you have to know that its get really brutal and boy this author knows how to kill off people and not easily either. But from the first chapter, I was addicted to this new world that Showalter has created for us and even though it did take two days to read (it is close to 500 pages) so its not a small book, it was highly engaging and keeps your brain and body on the edge all the way through. I think you need to warned beforehand how intense this book can be because if I hadn't known beforehand I might have had a different opinion. But I know this author, and love her writing style. I was captivated by this pair and the world building and the teaser that leads us to the second book and man I want it NOW!!
This story begins with our hero, who is a slave to his king and has to do his bidding. But he has been promised his freedom and the freedom of his people if he wins the third all war he has participated in. He has many tough exteriors, but deep down he has vulnerabilties including losing his daughter because of the all war. He is know at the third All War, which takes place on Terra (aka Earth) and is frozen in time and centuries have gone by. He is discovered by our delightful heroine. Vale and her sister Nola, are celebrating finishing college and accomplishing something no one ever thought that they would. Vale grew up on the streets, going from foster homes and surviving as best as she knew. She is tough and resilient but also loves fiercely. When they go exploring caves, and discover a man frozen in ice, she is drawn to this gorgeous male specimen and wants him in a sexual way even if he is frozen in ice. But then before she knows it, she is pulled into the all war and she and Knox join forces to defeat their enemies and even though she unknowingly becomes a participant, she doesn't know if she can trust Knox not to kill her but what she doesn't realize is that Knox is falling for her just as hard as she is falling for him and they will have to make a difficult choice and who will win and who will die? or will they have the HEA they deserve?
This book is like Hunger Games but for adults. Now I have never read Hunger Games, but I have watched the movies and yeah you won't get me to read those books, I would rather have my teeth extracted. However, this book totally worked for me in many ways. It is heartbreaking though to see certain characters being killed though and seeing all these combatants who at the heart are good immortals, but they each have something to fight for and they are all enslaved to the whims of their masters. So it is heartbreaking at times to read this book because of seeing this horrible situation and seeing some of them FIGHT back against those that are enslaving them.
We see Knox and Vale go through some difficult challenges in this book and seeing them overcome what they face is epic in many ways. Their love story ISNT easy or light hearted and it will rock your core in good ways and bad ways. We see how much they care for each other before they become enemies, and seeing them try to overcome the circumstances to be together is truly what makes this book an incredible experience. There are so many emotional moments that are going to break your heart but you also see the strength these two have together and seeing them fight for each other and for a future full of love and peace is so worth all the pain. Their journey isn't an easy one but unforgettable in many ways. This book will be sticking with me for a long while and I just can't wait for book two because I have a feeling that book is going to be kick ass as well!!
Overall I found Shadow and Ice to be packed with adventure, intensity, brutal at times and poignant in all the right moments.....A TREASURE TO DEVOUR!!
Shadow and Ice was a book I was SUPER stoked to read. After listening to an interview with Gena Showalter about this upcoming series, I just was really eager to grab this up. So I jumped over to B&N and bought this one in print. I did have this on my nightstand for quite a while before actually grabbing it up. I think I was really NERVOUS, because of how many mixed reviews of this book that there is out there and I just was not wanting to hate a book that I bought in print. But seriously....why oh why did I wait so long to read this because I have three words: It KICKED ASS!! I had so much fun with this book, and I honestly knew that I would because this authors writing always works for me no matter how crazy her stories gets, her writing sucks me right into the story and doesn't let go.
Shadow and Ice isn't an easy book though and its NOT for the faint of heart, and you have to know that its get really brutal and boy this author knows how to kill off people and not easily either. But from the first chapter, I was addicted to this new world that Showalter has created for us and even though it did take two days to read (it is close to 500 pages) so its not a small book, it was highly engaging and keeps your brain and body on the edge all the way through. I think you need to warned beforehand how intense this book can be because if I hadn't known beforehand I might have had a different opinion. But I know this author, and love her writing style. I was captivated by this pair and the world building and the teaser that leads us to the second book and man I want it NOW!!
This story begins with our hero, who is a slave to his king and has to do his bidding. But he has been promised his freedom and the freedom of his people if he wins the third all war he has participated in. He has many tough exteriors, but deep down he has vulnerabilties including losing his daughter because of the all war. He is know at the third All War, which takes place on Terra (aka Earth) and is frozen in time and centuries have gone by. He is discovered by our delightful heroine. Vale and her sister Nola, are celebrating finishing college and accomplishing something no one ever thought that they would. Vale grew up on the streets, going from foster homes and surviving as best as she knew. She is tough and resilient but also loves fiercely. When they go exploring caves, and discover a man frozen in ice, she is drawn to this gorgeous male specimen and wants him in a sexual way even if he is frozen in ice. But then before she knows it, she is pulled into the all war and she and Knox join forces to defeat their enemies and even though she unknowingly becomes a participant, she doesn't know if she can trust Knox not to kill her but what she doesn't realize is that Knox is falling for her just as hard as she is falling for him and they will have to make a difficult choice and who will win and who will die? or will they have the HEA they deserve?
This book is like Hunger Games but for adults. Now I have never read Hunger Games, but I have watched the movies and yeah you won't get me to read those books, I would rather have my teeth extracted. However, this book totally worked for me in many ways. It is heartbreaking though to see certain characters being killed though and seeing all these combatants who at the heart are good immortals, but they each have something to fight for and they are all enslaved to the whims of their masters. So it is heartbreaking at times to read this book because of seeing this horrible situation and seeing some of them FIGHT back against those that are enslaving them.
“Yes. Me. I'm an immortal made for war, and killing is what I do. What I'm good at. I do not live by the same rules as other people, those who do not have to fight to retain their liberties, those who let others do the fighting for them, then scoff at the results."
We see Knox and Vale go through some difficult challenges in this book and seeing them overcome what they face is epic in many ways. Their love story ISNT easy or light hearted and it will rock your core in good ways and bad ways. We see how much they care for each other before they become enemies, and seeing them try to overcome the circumstances to be together is truly what makes this book an incredible experience. There are so many emotional moments that are going to break your heart but you also see the strength these two have together and seeing them fight for each other and for a future full of love and peace is so worth all the pain. Their journey isn't an easy one but unforgettable in many ways. This book will be sticking with me for a long while and I just can't wait for book two because I have a feeling that book is going to be kick ass as well!!
Overall I found Shadow and Ice to be packed with adventure, intensity, brutal at times and poignant in all the right moments.....A TREASURE TO DEVOUR!!
This review was originally posted on Addicted To RomanceI received this book for free from Avon in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
A Notorious Vow is the third book in the Four Hundred series and whew....what a BOOK this turned out to be. I couldn't put it DOWN...I stayed up late reading it because it was so dang good. The writing was incredible and I was hooked into the romance between Christina and Oliver and you know how I just love and adore all the marriage of convenience, the hero being deaf and the gilded age setting. I am falling in love with the Gilded Age, the more I read it the more I adore it. Its so refreshing from all the regency romances out there and I just gobble these up and Joanna Shupe is fantastic in writing them.
A Notorious Vow begins with Christina, who has come to America with her parents, who are destititue. They may be members of high society in Londond with all the titles, but her father's gambling problem is a huge issue and they have brought Christina to catch a rich husband so that they may go back to their life in England. The husband that they set their sights on though is four times her age, rich and despicable and Christina has no idea how she will be able to marry such a man as him. Her only peace and comfort comes from her walks in her next door neighbor's garden, the first friend she has made. She finds Oliver intriguing and intelligent and a man who is a bit of a hermit due to his loss of hearing. They become fast friends but when Christina is found at Oliver's home by her parents and cousin, they are forced to marry. At first Oliver only wants to marry Christina to help her out and he can't stand the though of her marrying such a man as her parents have planned for her.
Their marriage starts off slow though, Oliver only wants to be married for a year and then to give Christina a big sum of money and start a new life. He wants friendship, but he craves his privacy. Christina, is expecting more from the marriage than Oliver does. She is slowly falling hard for Oliver but soon it becomes apparent that she will need to find her own way in their relationship. Oliver is new to the social scene, he is a brooding quiet man who is content to work on his inventions and books. But he soon realizes that he wants more from this marriage than he had first planned. Oliver and Christina begin to start fresh in their marriage, learning each other intimately and intellectually and love starts to blossom. But there is a man who wants Oliver's wealth and will do anything to get it.
I simply had a fun time with A Notorious Vow and I think that this book just might be my favorite of the series so far. I have such a weakness for marriage of conveniences and this one really worked for me. From the very beginning you become hooked on these characters and Christina and Oliver were so fascinating together.
I really was endeared to Oliver, you see how he deals with being deaf and the backlash from society and how he is treated. But Christina...she treats his like a equal and only sees the positive of Oliver and even though he tends to hurt her feelings at times, she understands Oliver in a way that no one else does. I love how accepting and eager she is learn his sign language and learn about his inventions.
The romance that blossoms between Christina and Oliver starts with friendship...they get on so well together. They can laugh together and talk about science and books together. We see how they learn and grow together. And then their relationship takes a new turn when Oliver realizes how much he wants Christina and not just as a friend and he starts courting her in sweet ways that makes you melt. I really was intrigued by the dynamics in this story from the sweet romance, to the villain of a cousin of Oliver's, to the selfish desires of Christina's parents.
From beginning to end this story wrapped me up like a warm blanket...full of laughter and charm, history and endearing characters that tug at those heart strings....DELECTABLE AND SWEET!!
[foogallery id="58366"]
A Notorious Vow is the third book in the Four Hundred series and whew....what a BOOK this turned out to be. I couldn't put it DOWN...I stayed up late reading it because it was so dang good. The writing was incredible and I was hooked into the romance between Christina and Oliver and you know how I just love and adore all the marriage of convenience, the hero being deaf and the gilded age setting. I am falling in love with the Gilded Age, the more I read it the more I adore it. Its so refreshing from all the regency romances out there and I just gobble these up and Joanna Shupe is fantastic in writing them.
A Notorious Vow begins with Christina, who has come to America with her parents, who are destititue. They may be members of high society in Londond with all the titles, but her father's gambling problem is a huge issue and they have brought Christina to catch a rich husband so that they may go back to their life in England. The husband that they set their sights on though is four times her age, rich and despicable and Christina has no idea how she will be able to marry such a man as him. Her only peace and comfort comes from her walks in her next door neighbor's garden, the first friend she has made. She finds Oliver intriguing and intelligent and a man who is a bit of a hermit due to his loss of hearing. They become fast friends but when Christina is found at Oliver's home by her parents and cousin, they are forced to marry. At first Oliver only wants to marry Christina to help her out and he can't stand the though of her marrying such a man as her parents have planned for her.
Their marriage starts off slow though, Oliver only wants to be married for a year and then to give Christina a big sum of money and start a new life. He wants friendship, but he craves his privacy. Christina, is expecting more from the marriage than Oliver does. She is slowly falling hard for Oliver but soon it becomes apparent that she will need to find her own way in their relationship. Oliver is new to the social scene, he is a brooding quiet man who is content to work on his inventions and books. But he soon realizes that he wants more from this marriage than he had first planned. Oliver and Christina begin to start fresh in their marriage, learning each other intimately and intellectually and love starts to blossom. But there is a man who wants Oliver's wealth and will do anything to get it.
I simply had a fun time with A Notorious Vow and I think that this book just might be my favorite of the series so far. I have such a weakness for marriage of conveniences and this one really worked for me. From the very beginning you become hooked on these characters and Christina and Oliver were so fascinating together.
If I had my pick of all the women on earth, you would remain my choice
I really was endeared to Oliver, you see how he deals with being deaf and the backlash from society and how he is treated. But Christina...she treats his like a equal and only sees the positive of Oliver and even though he tends to hurt her feelings at times, she understands Oliver in a way that no one else does. I love how accepting and eager she is learn his sign language and learn about his inventions.
The romance that blossoms between Christina and Oliver starts with friendship...they get on so well together. They can laugh together and talk about science and books together. We see how they learn and grow together. And then their relationship takes a new turn when Oliver realizes how much he wants Christina and not just as a friend and he starts courting her in sweet ways that makes you melt. I really was intrigued by the dynamics in this story from the sweet romance, to the villain of a cousin of Oliver's, to the selfish desires of Christina's parents.
Spoiler
Then the story takes a new turn when Oliver's cousin manipulates some lawyers and doctors to lie for him to incarcerate Oliver into a mental institution and boy this place is really BAD. I mean, it was so hard to read these scenes of what they do to Oliver. Then we see how determined that Christina is to free her husband. And that everyone is afraid to help including the mayor. But they have one good friend, Oliver's lawyer, who is such a fighter for his friend. And Christina really blew me away in the end when she really fights for Oliver and his freedom and the injustice done to him.From beginning to end this story wrapped me up like a warm blanket...full of laughter and charm, history and endearing characters that tug at those heart strings....DELECTABLE AND SWEET!!
[foogallery id="58366"]
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
This review contains spoilers, so be warned before reading. This has more than I normally would put in because of the content of the story. Read the last paragraph if you don't want the details.
One True Love is the first book in Linda Kage's first epic fantasy romance series and I have to say that I was really impressed with her work on this book and it was so fabulous reading this one here. I will admit that I was SUPER nervous in reading this one, and I had this to be read for weeks, and I finally got up the courage to read it this morning and I am so glad that I was able to finally brave it and read this book because it was so worth it. I don't know why I ever doubt Linda Kage because her books are priceless and are just the perfect books for me.
But this story does deal with an aspect of forbidden love that we see so rarely in romance (although sometimes I have seen it in historical romance where one of the characters are married) So yes this is the reason why it took me so long to actually read this book and I wanted to so badly because I was curious to see how Kage would handle an epic fantasy romance. And it was really well done actually and it was handled very delicately which I liked and since this author loves a good forbidden love I was curious to see how she would get these two with their happy ever after without abandoning their values of loyalty and honor.
Prince Urban is escorting his sister to her betrothed, where she will marry a prince of the land of sand, Donnelly. But when they meet the royal family, Urban feels an impression in his love mark that he has had since birth and he knows that his fated love mate is near but he is devastated when he learns that his true love is already married and heavily pregnant especially when she is married to a man that doesn't love her or even appreciate her as he should. But he knows he can't ever have her because he would do anything for her, and he knows that she is a woman that has a loyal heart and will never betray that honor that she has to her husband. So Urban keeps quiet, making sure that her needs are seen to without her knowledge of it. But then something changes everything when she almost dies from childbirth, it his kiss of true love that brings her back to life and now everyone knows the truth. The situation becomes way tenser but there is something more going on in the kingdom than meets the eye. And discovering the real truth will set Urban and his love on a course to finding they're happy ever after in the most unexpected direction.
One True Love was simply spectacular and I really enjoyed this fantasy romance despite the forbidden element where the heroine is married. For most of the book through they hardly speak to each other and barely touch, they do have dreams though but that is as far as it goes between them until they find out some truths and get to reach their HEA. I love how committed Urban is and even though he wants to carry his mate off and away from the Donnelly kingdom, he won't do it because he will do whatever it takes to keep his true love happy even if it means being without his true mate and watch over her from a distance.
I did enjoy seeing how Linda Kage wrote this fantasy romance, there are some details that could have been better described, and of course the dialogue could have been a bit more polished it sounds more contemporary, some phrases I don't imagine being said in this type of fantasy like world. However other than that, this story was precious and solid and truly enchanting!! I can't wait to see what this author comes up with in the future.
This review contains spoilers, so be warned before reading. This has more than I normally would put in because of the content of the story. Read the last paragraph if you don't want the details.
One True Love is the first book in Linda Kage's first epic fantasy romance series and I have to say that I was really impressed with her work on this book and it was so fabulous reading this one here. I will admit that I was SUPER nervous in reading this one, and I had this to be read for weeks, and I finally got up the courage to read it this morning and I am so glad that I was able to finally brave it and read this book because it was so worth it. I don't know why I ever doubt Linda Kage because her books are priceless and are just the perfect books for me.
But this story does deal with an aspect of forbidden love that we see so rarely in romance (although sometimes I have seen it in historical romance where one of the characters are married) So yes this is the reason why it took me so long to actually read this book and I wanted to so badly because I was curious to see how Kage would handle an epic fantasy romance. And it was really well done actually and it was handled very delicately which I liked and since this author loves a good forbidden love I was curious to see how she would get these two with their happy ever after without abandoning their values of loyalty and honor.
Prince Urban is escorting his sister to her betrothed, where she will marry a prince of the land of sand, Donnelly. But when they meet the royal family, Urban feels an impression in his love mark that he has had since birth and he knows that his fated love mate is near but he is devastated when he learns that his true love is already married and heavily pregnant especially when she is married to a man that doesn't love her or even appreciate her as he should. But he knows he can't ever have her because he would do anything for her, and he knows that she is a woman that has a loyal heart and will never betray that honor that she has to her husband. So Urban keeps quiet, making sure that her needs are seen to without her knowledge of it. But then something changes everything when she almost dies from childbirth, it his kiss of true love that brings her back to life and now everyone knows the truth. The situation becomes way tenser but there is something more going on in the kingdom than meets the eye. And discovering the real truth will set Urban and his love on a course to finding they're happy ever after in the most unexpected direction.
The day I'd come to this kingdom within the sand, I'd been lost. But as I gazed at my one true love, I knew I was found. I had a place and a reason, and this woman had helped me find it...
One True Love was simply spectacular and I really enjoyed this fantasy romance despite the forbidden element where the heroine is married. For most of the book through they hardly speak to each other and barely touch, they do have dreams though but that is as far as it goes between them until they find out some truths and get to reach their HEA. I love how committed Urban is and even though he wants to carry his mate off and away from the Donnelly kingdom, he won't do it because he will do whatever it takes to keep his true love happy even if it means being without his true mate and watch over her from a distance.
I did enjoy seeing how Linda Kage wrote this fantasy romance, there are some details that could have been better described, and of course the dialogue could have been a bit more polished it sounds more contemporary, some phrases I don't imagine being said in this type of fantasy like world. However other than that, this story was precious and solid and truly enchanting!! I can't wait to see what this author comes up with in the future.
