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Jolie Watkins, who is a psychic, lives in a shop with her cat and her best friend, in Los Angeles. . But then she has a certain customer do a walk-in, a Rand Balfour, who is a warlock- a male witch, and a very powerful one at that. Then Jolie see's a ghost, which has never happened to her before, and then later finds out that Rand sent the ghost to her, to see her abilities, because he needs her help, in finding out who killed Jack (the ghost). So when she takes her friend, she goes with Rand, to help find the killer, however not realizing she not only finds out who kills him, but brings him back to life, needless to say Jolie is shocked that she is able to do such a thing. And despite the certain spark that comes to life between Jolie and Rand, Rand sends Jolie home, hoping that the magical world won't find her, but never realizing what he started. When Jolie gets invited to a special party by Bella, Jack's daughter, and also a powerful witch, and one you don't want to ever cross, Jolie goes hoping to see Rand once more, never realizing that her life is about to change forever, and she is taken on a adventure of a lifetime, where love and magic exists, where she goes on a journey of discovery, where she is in the middle of a battle, that she must win if she is to survive.I was requested by this author H.P. Mallory to review Fire Burn and Cauldron Bubble, and I am so glad that she did. I just loved this book, and once I got into the story, I couldn't put it down. This was such a wonderful story, and I found the characters to be engaging and the plot riveting and full of adventure, romance, wit, and danger. One of the things that I loved about this book, was that it was full of surprises that I never expected. It was truly a delightful read, and I am looking forward to reading more from this author. This is definitely at the top of my list of Urban Fantasy!

This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance

my-review-updatedSummary


Jillian Lima, world came crashing down around her, where she lost just about everything. Even after all these years later, she is still trying to pick up the pieces and build a good life for herself. Jillian had thought that she had finally been able to move on from the past and the horrors of that one night, and start anew. Jillian can't forget the night where Brock, her childhood friend and the man she has always loved broke her heart and on the same evening a robber almost killed her and she still bears the evidence of that night that she can never forget. Now its been six years, of healing and learning to move from the past. But her past comes back to haunt her in the form of Brock who apparently is her new boss thanks to her dear old dad who didn't warn her. Now she will have to find a way to keep him from getting to close because she knows she wouldn't be able to recover a second time...

The Hero


Brock "The Beast" has built a powerful and well known name among his fans and MMA enthusiasts. He made it his mission to give back as much as he could to the man that saved his life and future. Jillian's father. Brock came to him when he was just fourteen, bruised and attempting to steal from him. But instead of handing him to the police, he took him in and showed him a better way and a home that he never imagined existed. Brock grew into a man of prestige and fame and money. Brock is a hero that you just love from the beginning. What I loved about him is how genuine and sincere he is will Jillian. He admits to his mistakes, and only wants to fix what he broke. He is quite successful, but what was most admirable about him was how humble he was. He could be a bit cocky at times, but in a way that draws you in.

The Heroine


Jillian, grew up in a very sheltered and protected home but when a strange boy became part of the family, she felt a instant connection. She always knew she loved Brock, she saw so many good things in him especially when he didn't see it himself. Jillian knows the ins and outs of her fathers business, she is innovative and creative and gets things done. She knows exactly what it takes to become accomplished. She was trained by her father. Her friendship with Brock was powerful but Jillian loved Brock from afar. He treated her like a little sister. Jillian is a heroine you can fully support. She is strong and courageous and loyal. But she can be stubborn but she is a fighter. She is a survivor and when you learn about all that she has gone through, you see what a trooper she really is.
“I love you because you have this fire in you that you don't even recognise, but I do. You're strong and you're a survivor.”

Plot and Story Line


In Fire In You we have a story of unrequited love and best friends to lovers type of story. Now in the previous books, we saw hints of their relationship and I can't tell you how excited I was to be able to pick up this one. The moment it became available on Amazon, I one clicked it because that was how excited I was to pick this one up.  Now Brock and Jillian's story was heartbreaking in quite a few moments. It sets off with the present, where Jillian is trying to move on with her life. Starting a new job, have a double date but then she bumps into Brock on her date and yeah the past comes roaring back to life for Jillian. And then she learns that he is her new boss, not a happy camper our Jillian is. But she doesn't back down from a fight, or what she deserves. We do get some flashbacks from the past, so you can understand more about the depth of their relationship.
From the moment your father brought him into the house, you were his little shadow. You thought the world of him at one point, and I know he still thinks that of you. So talking to him had to be more than okay. You were That friend to him, Jilly, and because of that, perhaps one day, you two will find your way back to each other

We see how their relationship was in the past. Jillian is one tough woman. She is still recovering from her attack, which she was lucky to live but she still bears the evidence on her face. I like that this author tackles tough subjects and characters that are flawed, make mistakes or suffer from traumas. And she wrote these characters so well. Both Brock and Jillian have painful pasts in different ways. But they have always had a connection since they were kids. I found it interesting the way she developed their relationship. Brock is a hero that you fall in love with because you see the way he wants to redeem the mistakes he made in the past. He is very determined and the ways he goes about winning Jillian over are pretty entertaining. Not a shy bone in his body that is for sure. But Jillian isn't easy to convince and I wanted to cheer when she makes him work for it because he does deserve it hehe The romance was poignant and sweet and gives you all the feels that you just want to scream, and cry and laugh with these characters as they stumble and fall and pick themselves up and we see how much they fit and are so compatible together. It's the type of romance that is vividly pictured and so compelling you never want it to end.

The Cover


What a gorgeous cover right folks!! I love this pose, because its so sweet and romantic. I love how she is wrapped around him from behind.

Overall View


Fire In You is a heart wrenching romance that will captivate you from page one. Its a story of friendship, trauma and redemption!! A FIERY ROMANCE TO WARM YOU!

Books N Tunes Pick:


This is such the perfect song for these two!!! Do you love this song like I do??!! I would love to know.


series-order-2Click To Buy On Amazon
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about-the-author-updated



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Summary

Sammi Miller, has always lived a tame life, a bar owner in Scotland. She loves doing what she does, and it honors her mother who is gone. But when she learns that her partner, best friend, and ex lover, had stolen money from a mob to support the bar, she ends up seeing him killed, her bar blown apart, shot in the shoulder and on the run from the mob. After a while of being on the run, she knows she needs to find a place of safety, even just for a few days. And there is one place that she has in mind...Dreagan Industries. She has a half sister, Jane, and she knows that she will be safe. But when she arrives, she meets the stunning Tristan. He is gorgeous, sexy and has a past that haunts him. Tristan and Sammi end up together, when Sammi's enemies increase, and the mystery of why become more pronounced. Tristan knows he will do everything in his power to keep his mate safe from their enemies, but will their love be enough to save them...

The Hero

Tristan, is the newest member of the Dragon Kings. He has a past, but he has no knowledge of his past, or how to interact with his twin. The truths that are revealed in this story, connect to Dark Sword series. Tristan is a strong hero, despite the fact he has no idea who he really is, he knows where he belongs...with the Dragon Kings. He is part of a brotherhood. His reaction to Sammi is intense, he knows that she is something special, but he can't pinpoint why. What I loved most about Tristan, is the way he is about Sammi. He has alpha male tendencies...the need to protect and fight for what is his. And even though his character is still struggling because of issues of his past. He is the type of hero, that doesn't focus on the past so much as the present and future. He is a fighter, gorgeous in his dragon form, and very sensual. I loved seeing the connection to the other series. Although I am not sure how I liked the way he was with his twin. I felt so bad for Ian, and there were moments in this story that it was just heartbreaking. But you also see how Tristan develops as a character and the way he changes is very engaging.

The Heroine

Sammi Miller, is a business owner, and in the beginning quite innocent of anything that exists other than humans. Sammi, even though she has a half sister, doesn't know what to make of their relationship. She misses her mother, who raised her and started the pub. At the beginning you see how close she was to her. Sammi's world is torn apart and now is running for her life. Sammi is reluctant to go to her sister, because she doesn't want to risk her safety. Sammi is independent and stubborn, and is adamant that this fight is her own. But the moment she enters Dragan Industries, that all changes. Despite being injured and battle worn from running for a whole month with a bullet in her shoulder...this woman has fortitude. I came to admire her character. She did have some flaws, I felt she was being a bit too hardheaded about some things. And I wanted to shake her and call her "idiot", but I could also see where she was coming from. If I was in her place, I might have done the same thing. What I liked about her character was her fighting spirit and how she never gives up. Sammi is put through the ringer, and what courage she has. I loved how she wants to make her own way and not lean on the hero. Although with Tristan...as sexy as he is...it would be the highest temptation. Sammi was a fascinating character and she had many qualities that I look for in a heroine.

Plot and Story Line
Now first I want to say that if you plan on reading this series, you need to start with the Dark Sword series. I would highly recommend it. There are many connections to that series. You don't have to, but it will make more sense if you do. Now it is a historically based series, but has the same tone of paranormal elements as the Dark Kings have. It is very well done, so I would recommend it. And who can resist Donna Grant? Because I can't. :) Now about the plot of Fire Rising...it was exciting and thrilling. There was so much going on here that if you knew it all, you might become overwhelmed at the beginning. But Grant has a wonderful way of weaving together a story and the way she blends in scenes, characters, climaxes and attention to detail, you won't be overwhelmed in any way. This has everything you need for a stunning paranormal romance that will you have on edge from beginning to end. There is no end to the action. I loved the tone of the story, which is full of suspense and unique plot twists. The romance itself is wonderful, and we see as the characters grow....so does their relationship. The steam isn't super hot, but it is plenty sexy, and I loved seeing how these two come together. There is quite a depth to the story as well, and the villains of the story, oh my...they were written so well. They definitely prove themselves as matches for the Dragon Kings...only the Dragon Kings are experienced, talented, and nothing can stop them. Loved how they band together to fight off the latest threat. The ending...I enjoyed it, as for Sammi and Tristan there is no cliffhanger. But there is a small one, so I hope it continues off in the next book. I can hardly wait...

Cover
I have really enjoyed the covers of this series. They are what drew me to this author and this series. On Fire Rising, we have a image of the hero (Tristan) and what a gorgeous model this is. Oh yeah I could put this on my wall, frame it and gaze at it all day. The imprint of the red dragon on the center, is simply delightful. I never know how I will feel about tats, some are good and some aren't. But this cover...is HOT!!. I really also liked the swirling mist, which goes with certain aspects of the story. They did great with this cover, because it goes with the story hand in hand. Hot Cover...Sexy book...perfect match!

Overall View
Donna Grant brings to us another great installment to the Dark Kings. Fire Rising is a intensely weaved story that is full of compelling characters, steamy action, fast paced scenes, and a love story that is deliciously sexy.

Soria is a member of the Dirk and Steele, have special gifts of her own. Although she isn't a shape-shifter, she can understand any language on earth. So when the leader of Dirk and Steele, asks her help them with a problem that only she can assist with. Soria is however very reluctant to do so, because a year previous she lost her right arm, and has had a difficult road since then. However when she meets a creature unlike anything she has ever met, she is intrigued and acts out of character, even for her. Karr, having been awoken from the ground from three thousand years, he is furious that he is chained to the floor. Karr is a mix breed of shifters, half lion and half bird, is unlike any of them have ever seen. Since he is the epitome of the impossible. But Karr is far from the last of his people, having been the leader of all those that were mixed shifters, he vowed to protect them at all costs. Then he meets with Soria who is the most captivating woman he has ever met. Even though he has a rage within him, he knows that he could never hurt her no matter the circumstance. The Fire King is a searching journey for both Karr and Soria where they search for the truth and also share a precious love that they both would fight for.

This is the last one of the Dirk & Steele series that is out, and the only one that I hadn't read, and I am so glad that I have. Its definitely one of my favorites of this series. Both Karr and Soria are powerful enigmatic characters where I endeared myself to them. Karr has only known of killing and rejected and pain in his life. Then he meets up with someone that embraces him fully as he is, never judging and always having trust in him. Never has he known anyone to have such complete faith in one as him, not feeling as deserving of it, even though he does. Soria is a young woman that was powerful and able in her own right before the incident that changed her life forever. Having lost her dependent arm, she struggles more than anything trying to adjust to this new life. However when she is summoned once more, she wants to escape from it, but she learns that you can never escape fate. After she meets with Karr, she knows that no one should be chained as he, even if he is dangerous. So they help each other, learning to live and trust once more and in each other. This is a powerful story that brought a tear to my eye a time or two. Marjorie M Liu portrays their emotions so well, its such a enthralling read. Definitely one I would recommend to anyone that enjoys a good romance mixed with some paranormal.

Adrienne Percy, after her father is branded a traitor by the king from her family, is sent to one of the Western Isles, and to live with only those who would berate and demean her. Adrienne has always desired a home and a family, and having been seperated from her mother and sisters whom she loves, she has desires a place to call "home", so now she desires to leave the Isle, so when the Highlander and Pirate MacLean comes with a ship, she sneaks aboard, not realizing what the consequences would be. Then she finds herself at his home, on Maclean land, with his clan, and she convinces him to marry her for business and no pleasure. But the longer they spend time together, passions ignite between the two and both of them never expected to find such a raging flame to spark between them, and a love that never expected to experience, especially when there is secrets between the two, but will the love they share be enough for forgiveness, and to love fully?The Firebrand is the Conclusion is the Highland Treasure Trilogy. This is the second book that I have read from this author. The first one that I read from her was Tess and the Highlander part of a Avon True Romance Teen Series (that I have to say everyone should read that series, its purely charming and witty, and definitely some of my favorite romances, great for any age!!) Anyway, let me continue on.... So The Firebrand, the title focuses on Adrienne who throughout the book is referred to a Firebrand, based on her spirited nature and temper, and boy does she have one, but it is purely charming to watch her and Wyntoun interact with one another, things surely get heated between the two, and not only just their temper (wink..wink) This story is mostly based on them, and then we get into the mystery behind Wyntoun deceiving Adrienne, although we see that it torments him all the while. This is a story with wit, suspense, romance, and the beauty of this time period that encompasses this lovely couple that learn the road of learning to trust in each others love. I just loved this book, half of the time it had me laughing, and then it had me totally entranced in this charming story.

Wild Rain is one of those releases for the year I have been most anticipating, but it took me a while to get in the mood. I ended up having it on my TBR for the #HRREADATHON and rotating between the audio and the ebook. Wild Rain is the second book in the latest series by Bev Jenkins and a western romance. It definitely has the typical flair that one will find with Bev Jenkins books, but I love her style with westerns. Now it wasn't a perfect book or one that won my heart completely. The ending was so NOT my cup of tea and I just felt the heroine could be selfish at times at the expense of the hero and it just rubbed me the wrong way.

Wild Rain begins with Spring Lee who is rancher and on her way home she stumbles across an injured rider and she takes him back to her home to tend to him. Garrett is a Eastern news reporter who has come to interview her brother who is a black man practicing medicine. Garrett is a respectful honest man that is intriguing to Spring. Spring is proud of the woman that she has become. She is independent, self sufficient and doesn't depend on anyone but herself. She loves being a rancher and the ability to be able to pave her own life. But there is a chemistry between herself and Garrett and Spring doesn't know what to do with this attraction with Garrett. She knows their lives are at a crossroads but can't resist the temptation of a strong yet kind man who has only treated her with kindness and respect. Garrett has in his own, gone his own way. His parents fought for him since he was young and sacrificed much. But he is own man and wants to find his own way. He finds Spring and the western way of living such a temptation. He feels a sense of completeness he couldn't ever feel in the city way of life. But he knows Spring will have to be the one to choose him because she is on her own path but hopes that their love will be enough for them both.

Wild Rain was a sweet and poetically penned romance. I had such a blast with this book and all the bright and colorful personalities that come into play into this story. Now while its definitely not one of my favorites, westerns always breath new life into my reading and this queen of an author can always draw me into her books and I love seeing the way it beckons me into it. I will say that as this one was an audio book, I was impressed with the talent of Kim Staunton. She really brought the perfect balance in the narration of this story. Spring and Garrett were definitely a unique mix together and I did enjoy their relationship and seeing the sacrifices. But I did feel that Garrett was really the one making all the concessions and sacrifices and it didn't feel like Spring was willing to do nearly as much for the relationship. Garrett seemed to be much more invested in the relationship and I did find that the heroine was very selfish at times and yeah the ending just didn't feel final or that HEA feel to it at all. I just finished reading the book with feeling like there needed to be more.

Now don't get me wrong, I didn't dislike the heroine at all. I found her to be very impressive and I adored the way she would stand up for herself and what she believed in. I just felt like there wasn't much growth to her as I was expecting and there were aspects to her character that wasn't my favorite to read in. But Garretty? As the male lead and hero, was superb in every way. I loved his dynamic character. I would say he is a beta with some alpha tendacies especially in being a protector. This part of his character comes when you least expect it. I loved seeing him grow in this story and being such a dynamic character.

The plot in this book was quite interesting. I honestly never know what to expect in the plot developments of Beverly Jenkins reads and this one was no different. There are aspects of suspense and it was a unique experience to go along for the ride with this book and see where this author was taking us on the journey. There were mutliple of aspects that drew me into this book and I had no problem staying engaged, I found the pacing the plot to be steady and didn't falter as sometimes happens in historical's. I really get a kick out of Beverly Jenkins, she has always been an author whose writing style has just worked for me. I really respect her level of rich historical authenticity that is so rare in modern historical authors these days. Its obvious that she knows her history and does her research and "high respect".

Overall I found Wild Rain to be a thrilling tale of western culture, rich historical context and a tender romance to curl your toes.

I read this a while ago and somehow forgot to write the review for this treasure of a read. so not sure if I will be able to give the length and depth of a review I would prefer, but here we go. My Highland Rogue is the first book of the series, and honestly might be the last book we will ever receive from this author here. I know that she passed right before this one was published, but I will say this was a beautiful treasure of a romance, and I had such a delight in the reading of it. Now I mostly listened to this book on AnyPlay and loved the narration here. It definitely drew me in so quickly into the story. So I highly recommend the narration if you enjoy audiobook style of reading. My Highland Rogue is a story that is sweet and deeply rich. Its a story of two people that were childhood sweethearts but they were from opposite sides of the tracks. The heroine is from a aristocratic family and the hero is a common man who works for her family. But then they were split apart and didn't see or hear from each other for five years. But when Gordon's mother dies, he returns back home and back to Jennifer and both he and Jennifer have to resolve what happened all those years ago and they both realize that they were duped by those they trusted the most. But when a secret come to light about Gordon's true parentage, their relationship will be tested in the worst of ways. But this is a story that shows that love is stronger than doubt and secrets.

I was so drawn into this story and I just wanted to cheer these two on through their triumphs. It definitely kept me engaged and I wanted more time of these two together. They do spend some of the story apart from each other, but I also loved seeing them find their way to each other and what they are willing to fight for. This story was GOLD in my book and I was left with such a bittersweet feeling to it. I am so saddened there won't be any more books from this author, but if this is her final work, it was beautiful. And definitely plan on purchasing it in print.

Overall I found this book to be a breathtaking addition to the works of Karen Ranney, its a story of unforgettable love, the worth of fighting and holding value to what you build in life. Breathtaking in its sincerity.

Originally Posted At Addicted To Romance
Summary
Melissa McGuire, is a new producer and came to San Gabriel to be with her grandmother. Her grandmother is always trying to find ways to get her married and hitched, and Melissa is at the end of her rope. When her grandmother asks her to come to an event but doesn’t tell her what it is, Melissa comes. When she arrives she is shocked to discover the amount of women, and that it is an auction of hot and sexy firemen. She is appalled and she can’t believe her grandmother would have her here…its embarrassing…and what woman would do such a thing….apparently all of the city of San Grabriel. But when her grandmother bids on the hottest of the firefighters, Ryan, she can hardly believe her eyes. But at the time of the date, her grandmother fakes being sick and Melissa is forced to go in her stead…but its not Ryan that shows on the door…its the captain, Brody. Brody is the Fire Fighter captain, and has worked hard to get to that position. When his best friend Ryan, begs him to take over the date with the elderly lady, Brody reluctantly agrees. But he is pleased to discover that his date will be the gorgeous granddaughter. Sparks fly, tensions rise….and they share one whopper of a kiss that seals their fate….but certain disasters occur that could keep them apart…will their love be enough to withstand the coming tide?

The Hero
Brody, isn’t trusting of women, he is divorced from a woman who was flighty and not committed to the relationship. But he loved her and care for her and she didn’t. Brody is determined to focus on his job and working on his house. What he doesn’t expect is to fall for a sexy news woman, which is the last thing he needs. But Brody finds her breathtaking, witty, fiery in her standards, and independent. Brody is a hero to adore, I love the way he is with his men, a commander and a leader, sexy as sin, plus he is good with his hands. He played the perfect role for the story.

The Heroine
Melissa hasn’t had time for relationships, and quite frankly after being betrayed by her ex, she decided to focus on her career and her grandmother and forget about men and the problems the come with them. Melissa is driven, independent, protective of her grandmother, but has lost her “zest” At first she seemed to be a bit of a door mat at times…very passive and not a fighter at all, especially when her crazy “friend” (if we could even call what they have true friendship) take over on everything. But we do see her fight back eventually, it just takes longer that you would think, but when you find out how she got burned in her previous job, it makes her seem more human at times, and we see a side of human nature that is true but we might not like to see. But what I loved most was seeing her true form come back and fight for what she really wants. By the end her character seemed to explode for me…and I loved the way the author worked that in.

Plot and Story Line
The Fireman Who Loved Me is the first book that I have read from this author. With her new series coming out next month, I just knew I needed to try this series out…and quite frankly I was long overdue reading this book, because hot and sexy single firemen??? Oh hot mama…count me in. After reading The Fireman Who Loved Me is the first full length novel of the series, and what drew me in was the first few pages…it is rare for me to get so fully involved in a story within the first pages…but Jennifer Bernard succeeded and I was bursting into giggles on my break at work…I tell you, the stares made everyone think I was a nut case…but I don’t care, it was freaking hilarious. This is probably the moment I fell for the heroine, because she seems very self-assured and confident and so embarrassed to be at a event that showcases men’s bodies (no matter how hot they are), and tries to hide under the table with her grandmother sitting proudly next to her. The grandmohter…now she was hilarious and I wouldn’t be surprised if she would have been a “flower child” back in the day, she is vibrant and wild and so funny to watch her interactions. But what was sweet about this grandmother, is that she is dying from cancer, and she wants her granddaughter happy in love and married before she goes, and she will resort to any means to make that dream come true. Now the one person I didn’t like was the friend, Ella. She is one piece of work, selfish in every way. But there is a little sub plot with a man who is her perfect match in every way…literally. What was also fun was the commaderie of the firemen. I loved them all, and I can hardly wait to read their stories…especially Ryan’s. What made this story quite wonderful was the sweet love story that develops, and the crazy mishaps that happen….but overall this is a blazing hot romance to sizzle your toes.

The Cover
I really love the cover..its flirty and playful, and gives off the tone “sweet romance” and I just love those abs on our Fireman….whew he is sexy HOT right?

Overall View
The Fireman Who Loved Me is a sexy read to burn you if you’re not careful. It’s a story of fighting for who you love, of crazy circumstances that bring two people together, how opposites really Do attract…and a poignant love story to make you scream for more. DELICIOUSLY ROMANTIC!!