This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance


THIS REVIEW MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS, SO FAIR WARNING, UPON READING THE REVIEW.
Seduction is the first book in the Spymaster’s Men trilogy and written by one of my favorite old-school authors. Brenda Joyce has written some of my favorite books and it was such fun to return to this author and delve into some more unique types of historicals. I will be honest that it was the cover that really won me over in convincing me to read this one. I know ….I know, I probably say that frequently but it’s definitely the truth in this case. I don’t know how anyone can see this cover and resist not picking it up. I also have a weakness for historical’s that have a non Regency era setting. This story and the trilogy takes place while mostly in England in the Georgian era which also coincides with the French Revolution and that is definitely the primary focus of this book and series. I definitely found myself intrigued by this book and despite some of its flaws, was such an enjoyable and stunning read.

SEDUCTION IS A SEXY ANGST-FILLED ROMANCE THAT DELVES INTO COMPLEXITIES THAT FEATURES:
Dominic Paget-Military man,an Earl in the aristocracy, a spy for the crown
Julianne Greystone-a gentlewoman, fighter for the rebels in France, sister and defender of the innocent and despises member of the Aristocracy.
Seduction is a story that begins with our hero, Dominic, who has been fighting in France along with other English fighting men in defending the rule of law in France against the rebels that are burning and terrorizing innocents including members of his own family. When he is injured, our heroine takes him in and works on healing his injuries. Julianne believes him to be a French hero not even realizing how close he is to being her enemy. Despite her brother’s chagrin and patience, she fights against England and their interests. She has connections and friends that are traitors but Julianne has a naive look at the issues happening with France. Julianne’s goal is to help those in need and those struggling to survive. Through the process of tending to Dominic’s injuries, Julianne and Dom forge a fierce connection to each other. Their relationship turns into a passionate love affair, but when reality comes rushing back, they each get a huge wake-up call, as they realize the truth about each other and they are on opposite sides of the war. Will Dominic and Julianne be able to find a common ground or stay enemies despite the love they hold for each other?

Fear rules the streets—the people. There is power for those who can cause the fear. And the innocent like Nadine are caught up in the violence and are its victims.

Seduction was such a unique and different story that I wasn’t expecting. I will be honest, I didn’t even read the blurb about this book so I had ZERO clue what this book was truly about. I am so happy that I did that actually because it allowed me to really enjoy this one without even knowing what was going to happen. I will be honest I did have some issues with this book. It really revolved around the heroine. She could be very naive at times about the war and the complexities of what was occurring in France. And also there are portions in this book in which she betrays Dominic to her friends. Now the first time it happens I couldn’t understand to be honest. This was after she realized she loved him even knowing who he was and what he stood for. It was pretty unclear her motivations behind it, it did feel like she was angry and was lashing out but it did feel petty at the moment. Now when it happens later in the book, it makes more sense as she is being coerced but it was still a struggle in wondering why she didn’t come to him with it. Now I get it was probably just a plot choice by the author, but I felt for the hero to be betrayed in such a way by the woman he loved and trusted. He was truly such a solid hero, and he definitely deserved the heroine to grovel more than what we received. And yes if the heroine errors she definitely NEEDS to do a grovel. It just didn’t feel as satisfying as I was expecting it to be. The hero was much more gracious and forgiving than she deserved in my opinion. Despite my issues with this book, I still quite enjoyed it, it just didn’t reach a full five star (it probably would have if there had been a good grovel from the heroine and she hadn’t betrayed him in the earlier section of the book) The writing was stellar, the time era in which this book was set in was so refreshing. I do love the French Revolution type of era, even though it has some similarities with the Regency era, it still offers something unique that sets it apart from your standard regency.

However, you are the one bright light in this difficult circumstance. I like being here with you, Julianne. I have no regrets

Overall I found Seduction to be a thrilling, edge-of-your-seat sexy romance that will deliver historical authenticity, a diverse array of complexities, and a swoony read to curl your toes in such delectable ways.

This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance

THIS REVIEW MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS, SO FAIR WARNING, UPON READING THE REVIEW.
The Duke Effect is the final installment in the “Rogue Files” series by Sophie Jordan. And I can’t believe I have reached the end of this series. I have really discovered some fun stories that this author has penned for us romance lovers. It did take me much longer to read this one than I expected. I will be honest I was very apprehensive of the heroine. I wasn’t a fan of her in previous books and found she could be manipulative in other books and there was something about her character that just rubbed me the wrong way. And honestly, this book was my least favorite of the series, it had its moments that worked for me, and even though I had lower expectations, it didn’t quite meet up to what I was expecting.

THE DUKE EFFECT IS A SEXY READ THAT DELIVERS IN ITS SMALL MOMENTS THAT FEATURES:
-Constantine Sinclair-heir to a Dukedom, military man, distrustful of others
-Nora Langley-scientist in medicine, curious, self consumed

The Duke Effect sets off with our hero, Constantine, who has come to the family home of the Langley sisters, as he is looking for the cure for a woman who is ailing, and he will do whatever it takes to find a cure. He comes to discuss matters with an established doctor but then realizes he has been duped by Nora Langley, who has been posing as her father and is furious at her deception. Nora Langley has never cared for society or finding a match, she cares more about her vials and potions and spending her free time in her laboratory. While she feels an intense attraction to Constantine, she knows they are too opposite from each other to make anything work. But when she teams up with Constantine to find a way to help The Duchess of Birchwood, more builds slowly between them in ways neither expected to find. But Constantine is destined to marry another woman, will he be able to fight for the woman he truly loves or do what is expected of him as the heir to a dukedom?

The Duke Effect was a book that I truly struggled with at times and I had a feeling that I would. There were some aspects that I liked though, but many other elements that just didn’t work for me. The hero really doesn’t care for the heroine for much of the book, it didn’t bother me too much to be honest but I was hoping that the distrust that he shows would melt more and not be dragged out through so much of the story. Then we have our heroine, and man I didn’t care for her at all. She could really be stuck in her own arrogance. While she had some positive attributes, she seemed so blind to many factors of society that didn’t make sense. Even though this was an audiobook and the ending seemed a bit rushed, and nothing really developed in this book. It seemed to lack so many elements that I enjoy in a romance and especially in a historical romance. This story was exactly what I really expected though. My expectations were low so I wasn’t expecting some fantastic book to sweep me away. While I always enjoy a strong heroine, her character just didn’t work for me. She just rubbed me the wrong way. The story just had many flaws and fell flat in other aspects. I didn’t understand the lack of interest Nora’s sisters had, or the rushed ending or lack of real connection between Nora and Constantine. There was a high level of chemistry but it was really hot smexy scenes but nothing more substantial than that.

The narration wasn’t my favorite either, it wasn’t horrible, but the way the narrator was handling the hero’s inflection and voice tone, detracted from the story. It was distracting and gave the impression of demeaning the hero at times, and I didn’t like the vibe which that portrayed for the story. I want my hero to sound sexy, not whiny. And the way the narration was implemented had him sounding like that and didn’t care for that aspect.

Overall I found The Duke Effect to be disappointing at times, but still had its redeeming qualities that will work for some readers and will attend to those will more modern sensibilities.

This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance

THIS REVIEW MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS, SO FAIR WARNING, UPON READING THE REVIEW.
Sleigh Bells Ring is the standalone holiday novel that is a recent release from this author. I am so thrilled to have been able to pick up this novel from RaeAnne Thayne. I have a feeling though this might be part of a new series though, I could be wrong on that front, but it’s just from the characters that we met in this book I could see being part of other books in the future. So we shall see what RaeAnne Thayne does here in the threads that she hinted at. I first want to say that I ADORED this book so much. It just worked for me in every way especially in the mood that I was in, it just fit just right. If you are looking for some holiday reads for the upcoming season, I don’t think that I could ever recommend this one enough to you all.

Sleigh Bells Ring is a sweet, heart-capturing read that features a mix of characters that will captivate your heart. We have two pairings that will just delight you in every way. It begins with our primary heroine, Annie McCade, who is taking care of her niece and nephew while working as a ranch manager. Her brother-in-law is in jail during the holidays after a drunk disorderly charge which resulted from losing his wife. But now his children are paying the price for his struggles and Annie is doing her best in keeping their hopes up. But then the ranch that she manages, the whole family decided to come to the family home for a Christmas gathering, and when the chef ends up in an accident, Annie is the one taking on the cooking responsibilities for the whole family. Even though Annie grew up with the Sheridan’s, she still feels intimidated by them. She has been half in love with Tate Sheridan, the oldest sibling and the one that has taken over his father and grandfather’s responsibilities in the company. While Tate and Annie are reconnecting with each other through the holidays…..there is another romance that is sizzling between Tate’s sister Brie and the ranch’s caretaker. Brie has had her own struggles and is working on getting her life together. This is a novel of not just romance but of new beginnings and healing and the value of family connections.

Sleigh Bells Ring was such a charming read and I couldn’t seem to get enough of this story. There was so much beautiful heart encased on each page. So many fun characters whom I couldn’t get enough of and just wanted more on the page. I will mention that this story is closed-door, so if you are expecting hot smexy scenes you definitely won’t find it with this book. I actually find this author’s writing to be so relaxing to indulge in. While she writes some wonderful kissing scenes, that is ALL you get. But I will say the romances that Thayne writes is simply powerful. The way she can write a romance and write intimacy without any sexual detail is truly wondrous because not many authors can write it in the way that she can. This book is probably one of her top-tier books, I have read quite a few of her books and I can say that this is one of her best in my opinion. It’s definitely a slow burn with a touch of unrequited love and a drop of forbidden. We do see Annie go through a struggle because she views Tate as forbidden to her. He has responsibilities, wealth, and a big company to take care of that is his family’s legacy so I do get why he would be intimidating but Tate is such a good-hearted man. You see how much he cares for his family and only wants to be a man of integrity and love that Tate and Annie found that they needed in each other. All the family members have such a unique value that contributes to the story.

Overall I found Sleigh Bells Ring to be an endearing tale that will deliver in all the feels combined with the charm and sweet cheer of the holiday season, it’s a book that is guaranteed to tug at your heartstrings in ways that you won’t see coming and will surprise in the small delightful moments which will uplift and endear.

This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance

THIS REVIEW MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS, SO FAIR WARNING, UPON READING THE REVIEW.
Dark Pleasures is the fourth installment in the Pure-Dark One’s Series and I have become so impressed with these books. I don’t know what it is about this author, but she keeps stunning me with her books and they are such fast and quick reads, I was so surprised at how fast I was breezing through this one. Even though this one wasn’t my favorite and most of that has to do with the trope that comes into play with this one here. I really don’t care for the casual sex/fling type of setup in romances, but Aja James still makes it work in some unique ways. Now the fun element of this series is that I don’t even NEED to read the blurbs because I know what is ahead will be a story that will work for me because this author’s writing is pure magic and I can’t seem to get enough. I am just trying not to splurge all at once with her books because then I will be out of books from her to read. If you are looking for a delightful mix of PNR and fantasy, then this series is your ticket….

DARK PLEASURES IS A SEXY, UNIQUE DYNAMIC THAT WILL FASCINATE YOUR MIND IN CHARMING WAYS THAT FEATURE:
Devlin Sinclair -Vampire, an alpha, young for his kind, was once part of the English Aristocracy, loves deeply, and is loyal to a fault
Grace Darling -Autistic spectrum, logical, doesn’t care for emotion, sex guru, obsessed with tech and a hacker

Dark Pleasures is a story that begins with an arrangement between Devlin and Grace, of two weeks of sex and in return, Grace will deliver to Devlin all the secrets of the clan that they are hunting that are setting secret battling clubs around the world and are attempting to destroy them. Devlin is determined to get his hands on this information and he isn’t about to complain about two weeks of hot sex with this beautiful woman who seems oblivious to the chemistry growing between them. Grace has always been logical, she doesn’t like emotional ties and doesn’t understand the concept of affection or love. She feels comfortable with her computers and tech as they are easy to understand. But when Devlin enters her life, she doesn’t comprehend these feelings she is having for him and she doesn’t really even like these feelings that are bringing the conflict to her. But while on their journey, Grace may have to come to terms with these new emotions that are drawing her into a relationship she never imagined was possible for her…

Dark Pleasures was such a different type of read than I was actually expecting. But then I am coming to expect the unexpected when it comes to Aja James. I don’t think I have ever read an author that keeps me on my toes as this one does and I do love reading this subgenre quite a bit. I will say that this book while it didn’t reach a top rating from me, I still quite enjoyed the book. I didn’t understand Grace that much and couldn’t connect with her. But I do think she is more on the autistic spectrum, I could be wrong of course, but she just seemed to fit the spectrum from what I know. And I really liked this aspect of a character so withdrawn from the emotional range of human aspects. She is almost like a child in discovering the emotion that Devlin brings out within her. In fact, her character was quite funny in the dilemma she has to face. And Devlin is so patient with her, like seriously, he has the patience of a saint and I found that is what our heroine truly needed. What she is growing into, is taking time and Devlin is willing to give that to her even when it hurts him at times. Now our hero was delicious. I really liked his depths and all the pain he has suffered. We do see some flashbacks but it’s more to see why he struggles with his past. Many of you know how much I despise flashbacks, but in this one, it was just a couple of times and it was brief, so it definitely worked for me. The romance that develops between these two is really beautiful in small ways. It’s the moments when they aren’t sure what is heading ahead for them, that create the deepest dynamics. The way that this author just pulls you so into their journey and seeing them embrace the growths in such a loveable way is such an experience.

Overall I found Dark Pleasures to be a journey of depths, mysteries, and characters that will gravitate you further into their realm of self-discovery and ability in embracing their fate….its simply a ride you won’t want to let go of …..get ready for a tumble to thrill you from head to toe….

This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance

THIS REVIEW MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS, SO FAIR WARNING, UPON READING THE REVIEW.
Guardian of Darkness is the first book in the de Reyne Domination series. Every time that I pick up this author I am reminded of how much I dearly adore this author. Whether it’s in physical format or audio, her books always seem to work for me. I found this one as a freebie on Amazon just last week, but within reading the first page, I was completely hooked on this one. It was one of those random readings that you never expect to enjoy as much as you do. I know that her covers can really cringe at times, but her writing is spectacular and I especially adore that she is willing to write this time era’s in historical romance which has become rare within the genre (for me it gets more brownie points for being non-regency) I truly think that this book will work for readers who are open-minded, like historical authenticity in their historical’s and adore all heart being packed into a story.

GUARDIAN OF DARKNESS IS A SEXY, VIBRANTLY EMOTION-FILLED STORY THAT CAPTURES THE ATTENTION:
Sir Creed de Reyne-a warrior, a knight for the King, defender and protector, a man of honor and integrity
Lady Carington Kerr-a Scottish lady, daughter of a powerful clan chief, sassy and independent,
Guardian of Darkness begins with the heroine, Cari, who has been offered to be a hostage in complex negotiations for peace between England and Scotland especially to calm down the border skirmishes. Cari is not happy with her situation at all and doesn’t understand why it was so needed but she is willing to go through the hassle for her father. But Cari is also at her wits end in the process and fights against her captors one of which happens to be our hero, Sir Creed de Reyne. Creed is a man of honor and has a kind heart despite his strong warrior instincts. He has had a rough time of it. He has just returned from a mission gone wrong with the King’s new wife who attempted to destroy his good reputation, but his brother and Lord stood by him in support knowing of his character. But now Creed is starting to have feelings for Cari, the intimacy is slowly building between them, but as tensions rise with the King of England, their relationship could bring more opposition with her father and what marrying her would mean for them. But Creed and Cari are willing to fight for their love and forge their way into their own HEA…

Guardian of Darkness was such an interesting story and while I have read captor/captive situations I don’t think I have read a circumstance upon which this is built here. I do know that these scenarios were actually done in the historical past to aid in conflicts being resolved, but I love seeing the take upon which Le Veque wrote this story here. It’s very interesting though that the heroine is so against this as her father agreed to this arrangement. I mean the first chapter she attempts to run away and I give brownie points to the men guarding her because she definitely doesn’t make it easy and they are really gracious about it and are careful to not hurt her at all. Cari is a heroine that acts upon rash decisions at times and is very unpredictable so she did take some getting used to because I really felt for the hero, his brother, and their band of men. Creed is such a gentle giant, and you can tell how careful he is with Cari but is also strong about setting firm boundaries of behavior. Cari reacts to Creed in a certain way though, that differs from the other men, but she still reacts very crazily at times, although I found it entertaining and fun at times, at others it became a bit aggravating me. I mean Cari knew WHY she was in this situation, but kept attempting to run away and I am like where you going to go girl?? haha, And it’s not like she is being harmed by the others in the group. Now there is one soldier in the group that is NOT a hero, he becomes the villain, so he does add some tension within the plotline that proved to be interesting. I just felt for CREED so much in this book, because he has such a kind heart, and is just doing his duty with Cari, but is very gracious about her run-away attempts. I did enjoy seeing him being firm but sweet with Cari. There is also such a strong brotherly bond that is introduced and I truly adored this depth in the story as well.


Now the romance that builds between Creed and Cari is such a wonderful one, and I was on board with it pretty quickly. It is a slow-building romance though but these small sweet intimate moments that build between Creed and Cari just worked for the story so well. I mean their relationship is forbidden. Creed’s honor is in question due to what happened with the King’s now-wife (although that wasn’t his fault) and then we have the fact that Cari is a political hostage to bring good behavior from her father, and shouldn’t be compromised in any such way. But while their chemistry is off the charts, there is also something deeper building between them. We see how Creed and Cari really come together and are willing to risk everything to pave their own path together. I truly love these types of forbidden relationships and seeing how the hero/heroine finds their way to a HEA. The way that Kathryn Le Veque built this story was so beautiful and I was cheering for these two all the way.

Overall I found Guardian of Darkness to be a stimulating read that captures the reader’s attention from the get-go, it’s a tale of sacrifice, love, and fighting for what matters….

This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance

The Christmas Dare is one of the more recent releases of the Twilight Texas Series. And for those of you not familiar with this series (AND what are you doing with your life haha) is a series based in a small town "Twilight" where magical things tend to happen when you least expect them to. The Christmas Dare was a story that I had plenty of mixed feels about, to be honest. It didn't quite meet up with my expectations but despite that, it definitely had its own refining qualities that worked for me in other ways that I didn't quite expect. I really love an author that can create such dynamics because even though I don't prefer to be so split on my feelings for stories like this, Lori Wilde definitely worked magic in this one, so I am thrilled for that there.

The Christmas Dare is a sweet yet angst-filled romance that will gravitate you which features:

• Noah MacGregor-a twin, ex-athlete, business manager of a bed and breakfast, and driven but vulnerable

• Kelsey James-devoted daughter, driven, political manager, competent but struggles with "mommy" issues

The Christmas Dare is a story that begins with our heroine, Kelsey James, who has always been devoted to her mother and her political aspirations. And for years she has stayed by her side while sacrificing all the good parts of herself just hoping one day she will please her mother and have love in return. But when she decides to take a vacation for the first time in forever, with her best friend and to the small territory of Twilight Texas, she knows that this will be a trip of risks and dares. While she battles within herself to let herself go on this vacation, she is dealing with the drama of her mother, but also runs into sexy Noah MacGregor, the boy she never stopped loving but could never have. But now they are back together and reconnecting, but will Kelsey's issues with her mother drive them together and keep them apart for good?

The Christmas Dare was a fantastic read in many ways and I do think that this story will work for many. Now while I enjoyed this one overall, I definitely had my issues. My largest issue was the heroine. Now I want to point out that the hero is far from perfect, he has his own share of struggles but he is much more likable and has a big giant vulnerability that is so endearing to the reader. Now as for our heroine, *sigh* she definitely has her issues. She is a bit of a doormat when it comes to her mother. Everything else she is the opposite, but it's like her mother just draws out her weakness and is willing to cave to her mother. There is a journey involved here where Kelsey has to discover herself and learn what she is capable of. But I really couldn't stand how Noah gets put in the middle and is the one that always seems to be the one hurt. I really couldn't understand why the heroine just disregarded the hero in some aspects and I felt like he deserved a woman willing to fight for him. Now the mother in this story is a piece of work and I can see how the heroine really battles within herself against her. But I felt like she was all over the place and didn't have much consistency to her character. I really found other aspects of the story to be utterly charming though. There is such magic in the way that this author writes her setting especially in how she evolves the small-town charm that endears you completely. Every time I visit this town of Twilight, I am always delighted by how this author has developed its colorful character that only makes you yearn for more.

Overall I found The Christmas Dare to be a charming read that brings together elements of grumpy and sunshine, deep character growth, a second chance romance that sparks life into the story, and an evolvement of gems to make you feel like falling in love and learning to fight for what matters most....

This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance

THIS REVIEW MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS, SO FAIR WARNING, UPON READING THE REVIEW.
Savage Hearts is the third installment in the Queens & Monsters series and my goodness I am so in love with this book and really I love ALL three of these but I think despite how much I adored book 2 (Carnal Urges), I think this book tops that one or at the very least they are tied. Because this one worked into all my feels, it won my attention and I never wanted to let go of this story. I have loved seeing the journey of this author and LITERALLY, these are her BEST books that she has ever written in my mind. I deeply love seeing how far she has come and seen her growth and dark romance is her jam. I know that this genre isn’t for everyone, but I guarantee that she will have you fallen deeply in love with the genre more than just about any other author. There was so much goodness in this book that I can’t contain how thrilled I am to have read this beautiful book here. So much I am going to buy all of them on trade.

SAVAGE HEARTS IS A THRILLING INSTALLMENT THAT IS GUARANTEED TO TAKE YOUR BREATH AWAY THAT FEATURES
Malek-Alpha male, assassin, forced to work in the Bravta, protector, defender, bad boy
Riley-awkward, funny, not bathed in riches, sees the heart of others and has a compassionate soul
Savage Hearts begins with Riley who has been invited to her sister’s home and to see her get married. Riley and her sister have a not good relationship, they aren’t close at all, and even though Riley is nervous to see her sister, she goes even though she hasn’t seen her sister in years. She is overwhelmed by the amount of wealth that her sister and her future husband have, she feels awkward but is eager to build a relationship back with her sister. But then a dark and dangerous stranger starts to approach her, and their chemistry is out of this world, even though she knows she should fear him, there is something about him that she connects to. Malek is out for revenge, and with the help of Kage who hates Declan almost as much, gives him the direction to Declan’s home. Malek’s brother was killed by Declan and he was the only family he ever had, and the one person for which he sacrificed so much of himself and is determined to bring down Declan. He isn’t rumored to be the mafia ghost for no reason. But he never expects to fall so hard to Riley. But when he learns of her connection to Declan, he kidnaps her only he finds that he can’t hurt her, only wants to keep her in his life. But will Riley and Malek find their happy ever after desperately seek?

Don’t get it wrong, sweet girl. I want to fucking devour you.”

This book was so beautifully written and I just admired the way that this story evolved and man it was so funny. I just loved the splashes of humor that help balance out the darker tones of the story. I really feel like this pair was so perfect for each other. There is so much depth in this story especially in seeing more background to Malek. He truly is a man of honor and even though he is a mafia assassin we get to his backstory and why he has done what he has. And the way that Riley will protect and defend him and see deep within him and accept him as the man he is, just will captivate your heart. I just became so drawn to this couple and all their intricate chemistry. While the sex in this book is OFF THE CHARTS, you also see what an intense journey they are to experience. I truly loved how much of the setting of the book was in Russia. Give me ALL of the Russian lovin’, it’s a setting we just don’t get to experience too often in romance.

I see the mad glint in her eye and know she’s planning something. Like overthrowing all the governments of the world and becoming Supreme Ruler of Earth. I can already see her throne, a massive structure made of all the spirits of men’s souls that she’s crushed

The characters that we see here just won my heart so quickly. I really loved Riley so much, even more than her sister. We see so much vulnerability while also having a core of strength that just breathed such energy within the story. To see her matched with Malek worked so perfectly. Malek is the alpha, the badass male while also having his own shares of vulnerabilities that seemed to connect him to Riley in such an elemental way. They have instant chemistry and its fire on the pages, but at the same time, there are so many depths of emotion that seem to only build the intimacy that grows between Malek and Riley. Their story is one of sacrifice, seeing past the surface to the deep recesses of the soul, and vitalizing the vibrant emotion that leaps out at the reader.

P
Here it is. You make me wish I’d lived a different life. You make me wish I could go back in time and start over again. You make me think the world isn’t a shitty place after all, that goodness exists and happiness isn’t make-believe and true love is possible. You make me believe in miracles, Riley Rose. When I’m with you, I feel like my life hasn’t been such a waste

Overall I found Savage Hearts to be a captivating read that will steal its way deep to the soul, its a tale of human condition, delving into the glorious as well as the darker sides of humanity, while deeply relaying the essence of strength that humanity is capable of in its most epic of moments. A STUNNING TALE TO SET YOUR WORLD ON FIRE

This review was originally posted on Addicted To RomanceI received this book for free from Berkley Publishing Group in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

Judgment Road is a sensational edgy and raw romance that brings together two tortured souls who find redemption and a love they never imagined....

What a story and so intense!! Of course, this is Christine Feehan and I am never surprised with what books she puts out, they are ALWAYS intense, but this book had a different feel to it and I loved everything about this book. I was curious before grabbing this one, how Feehan would be able to handle a biker romance and SUPERB!! That is all, this book exceeded my expectations and more. I just have so much love for this author, and this book is evidence of how talented she is. Now Judgment Road is an extension of two previous series and I love the connection between the two series and this charming coastal town that I would love to visit in real life.

The key players in this amazing romance are:

• Reaper, a man that is tortured by the sins of his past, who has had to commit acts to save the family he adopted as his own and to protect himself and defend the men and women he would give his life for. Reaper is a fighter, and a protector but is rough around the edges.

A beautiful, troubled man, forged by the fires of hell, ravaged by monsters.

• Anya is on the run, her life is in danger and she is in hiding. She grew up on the streets, went to bartender school to make a good living and is dang good at what she does. But she is independent and doesn't ask help from anyone. She is strong and resilient and courageous.

So this book was simply so emotional and what a ride this story turned out to be!!! I just couldn't put this book down and I wouldn't ever want to either. What I was really intrigued by in this story was the way that these characters pull together and the family of "torpedo ink" and the close bond they have for each other.

'I can't. I need a man whose first loyalty is to me. I want him fierce with his protection of me and our children. With you, the club will always come first, and I understand. I do. I just can't live with that

The story begins when Anya starts working as a bartender in the Torpedo Ink bar. She keeps to herself and works hard. But there is one man among the Torpedo Ink brothers that scares her....Reaper. She thinks that he hates her especially when he tries to get her fired. Reaper has always had the job of protecting his brothers especially their leader and would do anything for Czar and his wife Blythe. He knows that Anya is hiding something big, and he doesn't trust her or her secrets. But there is a danger surrounding them, and when a neighboring club comes to them for help in rescuing their leader's wife who has been kidnapped and is probably being raped and tortured, they need information. Information that is needed to rescue the innocent woman and Anya has that information. There has been a great connection between Reaper and Anya, but their relationship is fragile. And Reaper makes a decision that may make him lose her forever.....

He needed her brightness. He needed to see himself the way she did. He could be that man because she believed he was that man

WHAT  A STORY that this turned out to be and I was blown away by this book and I never wanted it to end. Like seriously, Christine Feehan....this book could have been 600 pages or longer and I wouldn't want it to end. There was such a riveting feel to this book and these characters just tugged at my heartstrings in the most poignant of ways. I will say that this is edgier, now if you are used to Christine Feehan's style of writing than you will love this book. However, if you are new to her and aren't a fan of darker themes, this book probably won't be for you. Because it does deal with some tough subjects and it's just not the type of story that everyone would love. It's not light or fluffy, its edgy and raw but so riveting and I can't share enough my love for this story.

My heart just broke so much for Reaper and Anya, these two just need love and affection so badly and I just wanted to weep for these two and their situation. But what was most remarkable about this book was seeing their relationship blossom so beautifully and the ways that they learn to fight for each other. It's not easy for either of them, but they never give up on each other, no matter how terrible it gets. I was swept away by their bond, mostly because you see their pasts and how much they have suffered and seeing them trying to build something new and experience building a relationship which neither of them have ever done before so of course, they will make mistakes. But they work through these mistakes and only become stronger for it.

This is a story that will break you, it will wreak havoc on your emotions, but it will also deliver the most precious, tender and poignant romance you could ever pick up!! A TRUE JEWEL!!

This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance

First Impressions
Better Not Pout is a standalone by this author and this is also my very first read from this author and I can guarantee that this won’t be the last time I will be reading this author. When I saw this one on the Hoopla catalog I just knew that I needed to grab it up, and I just love a sexy gay romance but a Christmas themed one with one of my favorite tropes “Grumpy Sunshine” I knew that this would be the ticket and it definitely was. This is a story that obviously features two complete opposites but also a story that showcases such a sweet endearing love story that will capture your attention from the very beginning. It has the quirky sunshine moments that make it so delectable that you won’t want to put this one down here. And it also has that holiday cheer that is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face.

Summary
Better Not Pout begins with our lonely Sergeant Major, who has spent 28 years in service to his country, and now he is being forced into retirement. The military life is all that he has ever known. And on the other side of the spectrum, we have a young man in his prime, who is packed with bundles of energy, love of others, and a smile for everyone. Nick is convinced by his boss to play the role of Santa Claus for the town when her husband gets sick. Nick is the most stoic of people, and not at all jolly, and who ends up happening to be his elf in the making…Teddy MacNalley. Teddy has everything going for him, he is all about the community and being involved with others. He is a social butterfly, his family is his heart but finding love and acceptance is a difficult one for him. He is determined to show this great grumpy of Santa Claus the true joy of living. Teddy knows that Nick will be putting up a fight, due to their age difference, but Teddy is one that doesn’t back down from a battle when it means the world to him, and there is something so lost about Nick, a sense that he needs love and affection more than anyone else he has ever met. But Nick isn’t going to make it easy for him. Nick hasn’t had the easiest of times and especially when it comes to matters of the heart, he hasn’t found someone that would stand by him. The chemistry between Nick and Teddy is powerful but Nick knows that Teddy deserves someone bursting with life and youth and not an old man like he feels he is. Fate, however, has different plans for Nick and Teddy. Nick ends up falling hard for this young man who charms his soul in the most unexpected ways. But will Nick be one warrior to fight for the love he has always ached for but never believed in until….now

What I Loved
This is a story I never expected to enjoy as much as I did. Novella’s (or shorter books) aren’t always my cup of tea but I found that this one really worked out so well for me in ways I didn’t expect to find. One never knows how a new to you author will actually work out for you. And it’s always an interesting dynamic to see how it all plays out and I was charmed by this story. Now, I was very pleased that the narrator of choice. Sean Crisden definitely is a rare talent and I especially love his voice for this romance. He really portrayed the difference of personalities between Nick and Teddy. We have a quaint small-town feel to this story, where there is an impactful sense of community. We have two characters that have explosive chemistry but there are other elements in play that prevent them from embracing the best parts of their relationship that is being cultivated, even subconsciously. This is probably one of the best grumpy sunshine romances that I have ever had a chance to read and I am so grateful for this story and what it delivered.

The romance that is built between the two is quite an interesting one and has a few dynamics that offer its share of depths and intricate layers. I honestly rarely get to read a shorter book that delivers on all fronts with all the feels. There is a mix of tropes that seem to blend so well together here. We have grump sunshine, opposites attract, age gap, fling, and working together. I can guarantee that you won’t be able to get enough of seeing how this author places this story so well together. But also the sexual chemistry is EXPLOSIVE between these two and I adored every aspect of this. This author definitely knows how to write her steam, but fair warning, there are quite a few sex scenes for such a short book but at the same time the romance is on point. There is such a great balance here that blends just right with the mode that the author plays into this story. There is quite a resistance from our grump of a hero, and boy does he speak “Bah Humbug” to a T. He is the epitome of a scrooge, haha but this charming endearing elf just sparks life into Nick and despite how Nick tries to resist the charms of Teddy, he knows he is falling hard for him. The key is seeing him fight for Teddy and oh my ovaries haha These two just are simply sweet perfection together. And I can’t wait to explore more of this author’s work even more.

Another plus to the story is the setting. Many of you know how much I adore a small town but also add in the charms of Christmas time, seeing how these neighbors watch out for each other, and seeing the festive feels just endear you in this story just makes me so happy especially as I read this before Christmas and delivers in its unique feeling of warmth and sense of inner peace.

Overall Evaluation
Better Not Pout is a beyond endearing, burn down the house, style of romance that delves into the sweet but also delivers in its depths of intimacy which leaves the reader only aching for more and will bring a tear in your eye in the most unexpected places. It’s a romance of sacrifice, Christmas charm, and a delectable bite.