This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance

You Can Run is the first book in the latest series by Rebecca Zanetti. This is a brand new series that is quite different than anything that you have seen from this author yet. This is the type of story that is closer to that of J.D. Robb or Amanda Quick, the romance definitely takes a back seat but it’s different in that it definitely has some sexy scenes in it that those books just don’t contain. So I found it just a unique mix of what this author brings to the table. I can tell that this will be a delicious slow-burn romance in the long run throughout the series. I am not sure what the plans are that Rebecca Zanetti actually has for this series but I am definitely on board with it. Thankfully I think I was in the right mood when I picked this one up, so be aware that romance isn’t the primary focus. From other reviews I had read of this one, I had a feeling it would be like this, so mentally I was ready for it. But I do think readers who have read this author will be quite surprised at the lack of focus of the romance. I can tell though that this author is venturing outside her realm and I had a blast seeing her explore it within this book.

You Can Run is a story that starts off with our heroine, Lauren Snow, who is an FBI Agent and has been called back to her hometown when there is a serial killer on the loose and since some of the cases are occurring on government lands, she is called upon to investigate. Laurel hasn’t been the best image for PR of late, and now her boss has ordered her on a mission that she is more than willing to take a chance on. Especially when her uncle is a prime suspect and Laurel is determined to get to the bottom of everything going on. But her partner in crime, the local who will be working with her on the case, is Huck Rivers. The attraction between Huck and Laurel is almost transcendent, but they have a case to solve and young women being killed. They are at odds with each other due to the circumstances, but despite their career differences, there is a chemistry building between them. A relationship between them won’t do any good but a one-night stand isn’t going to be enough to satisfy either of them. As Huck and Laurel explore their feelings, they also embark on an adventure of finding the real murderer and that none of their suspicions will save them in the end….

You Can Run is such a suspenseful read and I had a blast in discovering what this one was all about. I admit that I saw the cover and this author on the cover and I instantly grabbed it up on Netgalley. I didn’t even question it or even glance at the blurb, THAT is how much I have faith in this author. I didn’t doubt that I would enjoy this one and I was correct. Just like with Feehan earlier this year, I took a chance on this romantic mystery/crime thriller and it worked out for me in the end. I am never sure with these types of books that have romance as the backseat how much I will truly enjoy in the end, but somehow they really work for me. Part of it is that I have a soft spot for a well-written mystery and Rebecca Zanetti has such talent in writing it. I NEVER suspected the true killer, she really offered so many unique twists and turns that just flowed so well with other elements of the story. I admit though I NEEDED more with Huck and Laurel because they just worked in so many ways and it should be fun seeing them develop their relationship into something more in future books.

Overall I found You Can Run to be a superb story that captured my attention from the very beginning and wouldn’t let go of my attention until the very end. Zanetti has crafted a powder keg of a thriller that is bound to curl the toes of each of its readers in the most delectable of ways.

This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance


Highland Wolf is a story that I really was eager for, I mean I simply adore this author so much, and even though her books don’t always work for me, as the level of engagement has been less than say some of her more backlisted titles which were some of the books that really had me falling in love with her writing in the first place. I mean I might be the only reader that thinks that her writing now doesn’t feel as “magical” as some of her earlier writings but I still adore her books and will always read them, I am a bit of a Lynsay Sands “STAN” because I will always support and love her work even if they don’t quite wow me as that had done years ago. But I will say that Highland Wolf had the same magic and delight as the first few books of the series had for me. I was in love with this book and it completely swept me away and when I can read a book of this length in under two hours, well you know how much I actually loved it haha

HIGHLAND WOLF IS A SEXY HIGHLANDER ROMANCE THAT FEATURES:
Bryson MacDonald– Warriors, orphan, parents killed when he was young, claiming his clan and his betrothed

Claray MacFarlane– Betrothed to Bryson (Callan), lover and defender of animals, vegetarian, kidnapped by uncle

In Highland Wolf, we begin in the story with Claray MacFarlane. Claray was once betrothed to Bryson but when his family was murdered and much of his clan disbanded, she had thought that the future was lost to her including that family her father never filled grieved and their memories still haunt him to this day. But now Claray’s uncle is trying to force her into a marriage that she doesn’t want and is fully against her father’s wishes, and Claray has been raised to be strong and fight for herself. But she might have little choice if her uncle forces the issue. But then she gets rescued by the “Wolf” who carries her off into the woods and heather and not realizing that this man is her original betrothed, the boy many thought to have “died” alongside his parents. But he is very much alive, determined to start anew with his bride and rebuild his clan. But their lives are in danger and only together will they be able to find out why and who has been behind everything all of this time.

Highland Wolf was such a wonderful story and from the beginning of the book, I was totally drawn into this one here. I just couldn’t seem to get enough of it and I COULDNT put this one down. Now as much as I love this family and this series, it’s been a while since one of these books by this author has really pulled me in like this so BRAVO to Lynsay Sands for cultivating such a story here. I really was captivated by everything happening in this book here and I will say that in historical romance and most especially medieval eras, there is something about arranged marriages in romance that I just gravitate towards and this book really was perfect in every way. I absolutely adored the characters. The hero is so stoic, serious all of the TIME, and is a bit of an alpha male, but not overbearing or controlling at all and the smexy times that are relayed in this story were so well done. It is one of the sexier romances I have read in a while. I was highly impressed with this one here and eager to see more.

The heroine was such a delight though. I really love how well she balances out the hero. He is definitely more bitter and serious at times. I mean if you look at what he went through in his younger years, losing everything and having to work in secret for so long. So it does make sense that his personality would be a bit darker than you normally see in this authors’ heroes right? But the heroine was fun. She has such a passion for saving injured animals, or those that are abandoned and has a whole menagerie, and seeing how she captivates all the men around her into caring for these animals was hilarious. She just has this charm surrounding her personality that is so intriguing. And you just love seeing what she delivers here right? So I was highly intrigued into seeing how she really fit into the story and as you get to know her character and what she brings to the table with this marriage, you see how much that “The Wolf” truly needs a wife like her. They really together bring so much to the relationship that is valid.

Overall I found Highland Wolf to be an exciting, laugh-out-loud adventure-filled romance that delivers in its beauty of the highlands, the depths of love, and the brightness of sensuality.

This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance

This review may contain spoilers, so fair warning, upon reading the review.

Annihilation Road is the six installment in the Torpedo Ink series and I can’t believe that we are already on book 6 already! Time has really flown by with these books. Of course, with how fast this author writes, it should come as no surprise to any of us right? This is a book that is unique to Feehan, this is the first time I have ever read her do a duet featuring one pairing. But Savage is the most intense character I believe she has ever written. She has written plenty of alpha males over the years, however, Savage is a whole another element that some of you might not quite be ready for. Now, this is the first book, so I imagine that the second book will be even rougher so I will really have to prepare myself for that one. Feehan really has explored certain kinky elements more especially in this series. But in this one Savage is a sadist. So to say that this is a different level is saying something, and it won’t be for everyone. But I will say that I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and Feehan led me down a road that I trusted her completely with and I am so grateful for that. So let us begin….keep in mind this review HAS SPOILERS!!

Annihilation Road is a fiery hot edgy romance that features:

Savin “Savage” Pajari-alpha male, sergeant at arms for the Torpedo Ink Mc, Sadist, likes control, is scarred but protective and has a sweet underbelly

Seychelle Dubois-orphan, singer/songwriter, generous, loving, lighthearted nature


Annihilation Road starts off with the kick-off to the story when Savage is in town and when he sees a young child about to be run over, he runs over to save the child and as he is about to be hit by the car thinking he would die, someone happens to push him out of the way and takes the hit for him…..a young woman whose beauty takes his breath away. He tells himself he should walk away right then, but he is captivated by her and only wants her more than ever. He gives into temptation and visits her at the hospital to make sure she is faring well, and posing as her fiancee, he meets this woman who saved him, a vicious man not worth saving, and is stunned by Seychelle. She is beautiful, but sees beneath his tough exterior and to the deep soul of the man. She sees past his gruff dialogue and finds him entertaining and not offensive. There is a connection that they build in those sweet tender moments in the hospital but he walks away even though it’s the hardest thing he has ever done. What he doesn’t expect is to be drawn to her once again and fight for her and seeks to win her heart. But he knows it isn’t easy, and life with him will be extremely difficult but as they explore this newfound relationship, there is a threat to Seychelle, and only with her beloved protector will she find an exquisite love worth fighting for no matter the risk or pain involved…

When he was particularly bad, he went to the underground clubs for satisfaction. No woman would want him or ever stay with him. She sure as hell would never love him

Annihilation Road is a story that I was extremely nervous about. Now if you want a background on how this story came to be, Christine Feehan does have an explanation on her website HERE, and I really respected that Christine Feehan was willing to go here because it is highly rare to see this in a romance and that is for good reason. But that doesn’t mean that I wasn’t nervous to read this one, because if this counts, other than Fifty Shades of Grey, I have never read a character that is a sadist. So this was definitely a new experience for me, and I was curious to see how she would handle this book, especially since we get a continuation of this one in “Savage Road” which will be released in January 2022. I will say that this book will sweep you quickly away into the story, and it really kicks off so fast. The connection that begins with Savage and Seychelle, is powerful and it has a magnetism that only this author can craft in her delectable ways. The interactions between these two is so delicious. Savage is such a tough teddy bear at times, he is heavily scarred and intimidates many people, but he doesn’t Seychelle. She sees through that tough exterior he has as a shield very quickly, and her reaction to him really baffles Savage so much. He honestly doesn’t know how to handle her and it’s Magnifique. I absolutely adored seeing their dialogue and how they banter with each other.

He needed violence. He craved it in the way others might a drug. His world revolved around it. Worse, he had a darkness in him that she couldn’t even fathom, but she knew it was real and he was capable of things she couldn’t conceive of. She was drawn to that darkness like a moth to a flame, and she would burn up in his fire. She would. She had no protection against a man llike Savage. She felt his loathing of himself and the demons that plagued him and she wanted to be the woman to bring him peace.

Seychelle sees the humor in so many aspects, and that is not what Savage is accustomed to. Even though Seychelle is apprehensive about Savage, she senses the darkness in him, she also sees the good man that is hidden deep inside him. I did love seeing that aspect and seeing what she was willing to sacrifice. It is not an easy road for these two. Savage has certain needs and it’s not something he can just push away or he could explode and hurt someone he truly loves. Ever since he was a child, it has been trained in him to be a sadist. He has very dark needs and only a special woman makes him want to try for more. He wants more with Seychelle than he has ever had with anyone else. He is willing to fight for her, but he also knows he needs to be patient because he won’t be a gentle lover most of the time. Seychelle upon learning of his true nature is apprehensive because she is sure she will fail him in giving him what he needs in her. She doesn’t know if she can even handle it or to be tolerant of the pain he wants to give her. But as she explores this deeper side to Savage, she sees so many sides to him, and as she begins to fall in love with him, she wonders if she can take him in his full beast mode.

She would lose Savage. The difference was, with Savage, she would lose her heart. Her soul. Everything she was.

Now I had one major issue with the book and it wasn’t even that the hero was a sadist. I actually really respect the author for writing his story, because it needed to be told. But there is something that Savage chooses to do earlier on in the book. Now they aren’t 100% committed to each other yet, however, they are very close to it. Savage feels the beast coming really strong and he is worried he will lash out at Seychelle, so he goes to another woman to fulfill those darker needs that he knows Seychelle isn’t even close ready for. Now, this isn’t the first time we have seen this (something similar happens in book one, the only difference here that some readers may really STRUGGLE with, is that this is full-on cheating) I do consider this scene cheating, because even though they aren’t quite 100% together, its pretty close to it and even though I understand in some respects, he really hurts her here and also I feel like he didn’t grovel nearly enough in the way that she deserved. But while I did have issues with this scene, it wasn’t enough to take away too much of the overall rating of the book. This would have been a 5 if it hadn’t been for this moment in the book.

I know that’s not much in the face of what I’m asking of you, but it’s all I can give you. My promise that you have me one hundred percent. Everything I am is yours.

A side note on the cover: I am not sure if its just me or does it seem like the covers for Savage’s books are as polished as the other titles in the series. They just seem to not have the same depth and quality as the others do. So I am curious why that is for these books.

Overall I found Annihilation Road to be a journey of self-reflection, newfound love that is packed with heights and its lows, it’s a story that will battle within and discover the essence of selfless love and its powerful healing capability. Its a story that will enhance its readers to another level and reach a stunning yet intense love.

This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance

“My love for you is eternal and unfaltering, Lazarus. Do not doubt that. Stars will form and die, and what I feel for you will remain undimmed.”

First Impressions
Death is the finale of the series and this book BLEW MY MIND away, I absolutely adored just about everything about this one. Even though the beginning had a bit of a slow start and I wasn’t too interested in reading for a while (I think mostly due to the mood I was in) I ended up falling so hard for this book. I really wondered how Laura Thalassa would handle Death’s book and I really found that the way certain elements were brought together made for such a great story. I will say that this book isn’t for the faint of heart. It definitely has its darker elements and it does deal with some serious issues obviously, but it has such intricate detail that I believe only this author can cultivate. Now I am not sure that this one beats (War–which is my favorite of the series) but this one definitely ties with it easily. There is such a slow building of intimate love that is gradually growing and I adored every single part of it.

“Death and life, caught in an eternal embrace,” he explains. “They look like lovers,” I whisper. “They are lovers.” His eyes find mine, and I swear they can see straight to my soul.

Summary
The last of the horseman have arrived at Earth, Death, and is wreaking havoc upon the human population as is his duty. Lazarus Gaumond, saw her family and all of those that she truly loved fall dead at her feet but for some reason, she was left alive. Lazarus, it seems is impossible to kill, every time that she dies, she comes back alive. And she proves to be more than a match for Death. Lazarus had a sweet loving nature, but when she lost everything, she realized she would have to become something to face up to Death, as she was the only one that could. Death and Lazarus begin playing a game of playing with death with each other, but there is something more tangible building between them. They have a connection to each other that neither of them fully understand. But then Lazarus and Death get tired of fighting each other, and Death is determined to claim Lazarus as his own, the only woman who could ever hold his heart. But even when Lazarus makes a deal with his brothers to do what she can to convince Death to change his agenda, and give into the chemistry that she feels more strongly each day, she begins to genuinely care for this angel of death. Even though he is the enemy and is killing the human race as is his command, only Lazarus will have the capability of showing Death the true power of love and save humankind as is her destiny….

What I Loved
This Book!!! *sigh* This story was so delicious and I couldn’t seem to get enough of everything that encompassed this story. Despite its beginning (which granted I think was mostly due to my mood which is why I waited till I was in the right mood to pick it back up) its still going to be a top read of the year and what a way to KICK OFF the new year with such a book. I am so happy that I decided to come back to Death and read the epic finale we have all been waiting for here. I will admit that reading this one had a very bittersweet feeling to it. While I loved being able to read this book I am also sad that I had to see this series go as well because I have loved it so. These books have been highlights of my reading in the past four years. I really do love a good edgy romance and this one definitely has many dark elements. So fair warning before going into this book and if you get triggers (please check the trigger warnings before reading this book). I had also forgotten the style of Laura Thalassa, its stunning how flawlessly she can cause havoc on my emotions where I am laughing one moment and sobbing tears in the next. This book tore my HEART apart but also put it back together.

Because you were designed to be mine. And it’s time I claimed you.

The romance that develops between Death and Lazarus was quite interesting. I loved the slow building of their chemistry. At first, they are true enemies, although Death is more fascinated by Lazarus than anything else because only his brothers are safe from his wrath. And his fascination turns into something deeper, where he wants to treat her as his mate, and starts to genuinely care for her. Out of all of the horsemen, Death is the one most devoted to his duty. I loved how protective he could be of Lazarus, in the small moments that he cares for her or will do things just to make her laugh or bring joy to her life even in the small ways. You really see how much he is changing. On the side of Lazarus, she hates having feelings for this sexy dangerous man that is destroying her world. She has many mixed feelings for Death, and doesn’t know how to react to these changing emotions and the intensity of their connection at times. I adored her strength and bravery. Even till the end, she stands her ground and fights for what she believes in. I found their story to be so captivating and the most endearing moments were in the small ones. In their quiet ways of sharing together and seeing their intimacy build was truly a powerful thing to witness throughout the reading of this here.

Even if it takes centuries, even if you and I are the last creatures in existence, I vow to you this: I will get you to love me—mind, body, and heart.”

And the ENDING tore me up, and I won’t reveal too much as I don’t wish to spoil it at all. But I will say that this author tied everything up in a bow in such a beautiful way that just tugged at my heartstrings. I couldn’t believe the way that Laura Thalassa weaved her way with this story and brought together such an epic romance that had me hooked.

Overall Evaluation
The final of the series, Death, is a story that I can guarantee that you will fall in love with. Its a story of redemption, character growth, and standing for what you believe in no matter the cost. It’s an intimate portrayal of love in its most powerful of moments, and the author cultivates a story that is bound to tie you up in knots and capture your heart.

This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance

First Impressions
Texas Homecoming is the first book in the Night Riders series by this fantastic male romance author. I have a goal of reading more of Leigh Greenwood this year. I just love his work and adore the books that he has crafted here. This is a story that surprised me in such a delightful way. From the first few minutes of listening I was so drawn into this audiobook. I really was drawn into the sense of the plot that had a theme of revenge. This book takes place right after the civil war, so it enters the reconstruction era and I really enjoyed seeing this author implement this so well into her story here. There were so many factors that seemed to blend so well together in this one. And it was a interracial romance with a White hero and a Latina heroine and what a beautiful blend of a romance that this one turned out to be. It had a sassy mix of tropes and undertones that worked just right for this couple. I was very curious to see how Leigh Greenwood would handle this romance and see how they would find their way past this BIG hurdle but it was done quite well actually, and I am once again impressed with the talent of this author to pen such a romance as this and just make it work so well.

Summary
Cade is the captain of the Night Riders and it’s his responsibility to protect his man. But he never thought in a million years that one of his men, and a man he grew next door to, would be the one to betray their unit and 26 men lost their lives due to one man’s greed, and those soldiers left to forge a bond tighter than any foiled rope ever could….its as strong as steel and they made a pact to get justice for what happened and find the peace they fought so hard for in the war. Their trail leaves them back to Cade’s home where they lie in wait for the man who betrayed them because everyone eventually comes home. But circumstances become a bit more complicated when he sees that their next-door neighbors and the girl he once admired is servants to his grandfather having been run out of their own home. Pilar diViere, grew up in an aristocratic Latino family, she had always known wealth and prestige until the war happened, her brother left, and vagrants overtook their Hacienda and ranch and were left with no one to turn to except Cade’s grandfather whom they are servants to where they once had riches and wealth. Pilar has always had a determination to never let anything get her down and to make the best of a bad situation. But then the man she once was charmed by as a girl returns home, a man who despises her brother for a reason she doesn’t know, and her grandmother have forbidden any interaction with him. But there is a spark that has never died between Cade and Pilar. But can Cade forget that it was Pilar’s brother that betrayed them? Or can love be the moving force towards forgiveness and a new way of being?

What I Liked
There were quite a few things that I found that this book worked out so well for me here. The first is the setting and time era of the story. I just ADORE the reconstruction era, because it’s seeing the power of rebuilding after the destructive force of a war of a country fighting against each other. It also takes place in Texas and I love Texas as a setting, there is something so raw and rich about having a Texas setting, and most particularly in a historical romance. I also quite adored seeing this revenge plot being so unraveled here. I will say that I had a blast seeing the various complexities that it drew out in such a wonderful way. The romance was such a solid focus and I loved the connection that Cade and Pilar had together. They definitely have some sparks and such fire. Even though this author is tamer in the number of sex scenes that he does, as there is like some foreplay and like one sex scene BUT he does write some moderate heat that balances out the story so well. I found there was this amount of humor that really lightened the mood in unexpected ways. There is such a great bond between these men who have experienced so much together. The angst between the grandfather and grandmother was so ON POINT, they were so hilarious, they fought like cats and dogs and it was quite entertaining to see how it unfolds between them. But their characters were awful. Like there is nothing good about them, to be honest. Both are stubborn, prideful, and are so set in their ways that scream toxicity, and it’s a wonder that Cade and Pilar became such wonderful human beings.

What I Struggled With
There wasn’t too much that I struggled with, I mean it definitely didn’t make it to a five-star read. I think that is mostly because there was so much ANGST in this book and it did get drawn out much longer than I would have liked. Also, I didn’t like how Cade kept his secret of killing Pilar’s brother for so long, there is a moment in the story where she comes completely clean with him, and he didn’t with her and I didn’t feel like he was sincere in the grovel at all later. And while I really liked Pilar’s spirit, I felt like she could be too hard-hearted. You see her trying to throw off convention but she pretty much lets her grandmother control her and I just didn’t connect with the heroine like I wanted to. Especially in what she was willing to do to Cade just because her grandmother was so bitter and couldn’t see the truth of life. She took a bit too long-standing up to her grandmother and took a stand on what she wanted in life.

Overall Outlook
I found Texas Homecoming to be such an enjoyable read that had its own style of country charm that delves into some difficult topics of morality and honor, the romance was the perfect blend of chemistry and feels which is guaranteed to curl your toes in such a delightful way. If you have a fondness for historical westerns, what are you waiting for? Grab this one up and you won’t be disappointed.

This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance

How often, in our world, do we have the opportunity to explore the possibilities without the sense of being constantly on display?

First Impressions
I will be honest in that after the more recent series from this author, I wasn’t too eager to pick up this book. They just didn’t leave such a big impression as she normally has in the past. But then after hearing some great recommendations of this book, I just knew that I had to grab it up and I am HAPPY that I did pick this one up here because it was superb in so many ways. I definitely couldn’t get enough of this book and I READ it so fast. Like under two hours, it just swept me away and I just wanted more of it. It definitely was a delightful mix of everything that I wanted in a historical and more. I don’t know how to quite explain this book but I will say that it definitely left an impression and I am thrilled that I was able to grab this one up and take a chance on this one here. If you have enjoyed this author in the past, then you definitely need to grab this one up here. It is so delightful in so many ways. And it is connected somewhat to the Trewlove books, which was a fun twist.

Or perhaps only with the foolishness of a man who was just coming to realize he possessed a heart. She was like the sun coaxing a bud into opening.

Summary
Lord Griffith Stanwick is the “spare” and has always felt like he was considered useless by his father. He goes day to day in his life living the life as many second sons in the Ton do, not really cultivating his dreams or realizing what he is capable of. But there is one woman that has always held his heart and she has no idea of the depths of his feelings for her. Lady Kathryn Lambert has heart eyes set on a Duke. She is entering close to the deadline where she must marry a titled lord in order to gain her inheritance which has tremendous sentimental value to her. A country cottage out by the coast. She knows that she will have to marry, so why not a Duke if she can catch his eye. When the Duke claims a challenge to have every prospective woman who seeks his handwrite a letter of her attributes, he claims he received a letter from Kathryn, but she knows that she didn’t send him one. But after a sensual embrace, she shared with the one man she least expected…..Lord Griffith Stanwich, a man who is the brother to her best friend, she wonders what she will have to decide on. But then the worst happens for Griffith and his family, his father has claimed a traitor, and Griffith and his siblings are carted off to the tower but then released when it proved that they are innocent. But they lost everything, and now it’s been a year later, and he is striving to reclaim a dream that he has kept hidden. A dream to build a place where the less fortunate children of members of the ton, or successful gentleman and women that gather with no judgment and enjoy each other’s company. And during this venture, Griffith and Kathryn reconnect. There is only one problem, Kathryn is about to be engaged to the Duke. Now Kathryn will have to decide which holds more value to her …..her inheritance or the man who has captured her heart…..

But Griff was learning that the truth didn’t bring peace. It brought only misery.

What I Liked
There were so many aspects of this story that I truly enjoyed. I will admit that I couldn’t seem to get enough of this one here. I mean I read this one in under two hours and I rarely read a book that fast. I mean I am a fast reader but it rarely happens that quick. But I couldn’t seem to flip the pages fast enough, which for a modern historical, is a miraculous feat that is for sure. I really loved the depths of emotion that are revealed throughout this story here. There is such devotion that Griffith has to Kathryn, and seeing the lengths he goes to just to see that she is happy and settled in life, was simply BEAUTIFUL. He is so devoted to her in such a selfless way. I have such a fondness for unrequited love and I don’t see this trope as much as I used to, but I really admired the way the story unraveled in its intricate but simple manner. Lorraine Heath truly worked her magic with this one here. My heart broke for these siblings who have lost so much. I guess I had forgotten what had happened to them since the sister marries one of the Trewlove’s. And to be honest it was the ending that truly finalized this story for me and is the factor in which decided the higher rating. For most of the story I really felt like it was a solid rating of 4, but after this poignant ending, I just knew it had to be a 4.5 because it was so much more than a 4 for me although not quite a 5. I simply loved so many parts of this book that just captured my heart completely.

A year ago, I might have believed that it was all lies, but now I know the truth of it. There is no man in all of Christendom who would serve better as my husband.

What I Struggled With
There really isn’t that much that I struggled with, I mean there were parts in the story that stilted at times with the pacing, or there was a lack of depth in some parts while the majority of the story had so much of it.

Overall View
I found myself in love with Scoundrel Of My Heart, its a romance that will capture your heart and attention from the get-go. It’s a tale of redemption, growth, and embracing your dreams….captivating in every moment!

With her, nothing about his birth or his past mattered. All that mattered was their love.

“I don’t need you to fix me, Stella. I need you for everything else. I need your smiles, your laughter. I need you to be my best friend, my lover, my all. I need to take care of you, touch your skin, make you dinner, give you pleasure whenever you’re in need.”I lean in, emotion clogging my throat. “You are the best thing that has ever happened to me, and I’d happily spend the rest of my life trying to be the best thing that has ever happened to you too.”

“We can’t protect the ones we love; we can only let them know we’ll be there to pick them up when they fall.”

“I don’t know where this will go, or if I’ll be any good at it, but I want to be on this road with you.”

“It’s an endurance race. You endure. You keep moving forward. But some days, Stella…Some days I get so fucking tired.”“Then rest,” I whisper. “Rest with me. Let me be where you lay your head for a while.”

This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance

The fact that she felt she wasn’t first in his life, she was—and she wasn’t. She was. She was his fucking world. The center of it. The heart of it.

My Review
First Impressions
Savage Road is the second part of the duo of this pairing and I will admit that I was highly nervous heading into this one, I am not sure why, because rarely does Christine Feehan actually let me down, however, I will say I took too long reading this one. I have had access to this ARC for a while, but I think I knew I wanted to go into this one with the right frame of mind and a certain mood because this does deal with some more complicated issues. But I can reassure you that this story is definitely worth it because it completely blew my mind away. I wasn’t sure what I was expecting but after the first book “Annihilation Road” with this pair, I wasn’t sure how this author could beat that one, but Feehan definitely shows the true core of her talent with this one. I greatly appreciated the manner by which this author did her research and its evident within the story how well she handled these certain scenes that other authors would struggle with. While the scenes were hot and intense, there was also so much heart packed within this one story that won me over completely.

He had to be right for her. He might be rough and too controlling, but he would move the world for her, if she needed it moved.

The Summary
Savage Road starts off with Savage and Seychelle learning to adapt to each other’s needs, and it’s not an easy transition. Savage is hard and rough around the edges, but his devotion to Seychelle is complete, except for one factor that could prove to be more of a challenge than either of them are ready for …..his loyalty and bond to his club. Savage is a brother first and foremost, and they are his family, but Seychelle is his heart but they seem to be clashing against each other, and Savage is not prepared for the challenges ahead for him & Seychelle. Seychelle is struggling with her new life with Savage, and she is coming to realize that a life with him, is going to be tough and more difficult than she initially had thought when she committed to him. She is struggling with facing the fact that she comes second to the club, and when tensions clash between Seychelle and some of the members of the club, Seychelle is wondering if she has a place in Savage’s life. But Savage is a fighter and doesn’t go down without a fight. Savage is not willing to give up on his girl so easily, but their plot thickens when there is more at work than meets the eye, and both Savage and Seychelle will have to learn to trust in one another fully, before securing the safety of those they love the most….

I love all of you, Seychelle. I fell so hard for everything you. You bring me sunlight. You taught me how to laugh. I didn’t have hope, and you gave that to me. I had no future and you gave me one. There’s a brightness in you, and you were generous enough to share that with me, knowing what I am and what I’ll always be.

What I Liked
There is SO much that I LOVED about this book and I what a whirl of adventure, angst, and sexual tension that so worked for me in every way. Christine Feehan has definitely upped her game with Savage Road. There was so much depth to this story and what a page-turner. Of course, Feehan will almost always do that for me, but considering the length of this story, I was highly impressed with this one here. I really felt for both Savage and Seychelle as they maneuver their way through this relationship and the landmines that have to overcome. Savage is a hero that is alpha, a sadist, and likes control, but he does learn flexibility here. Seychelle is independent but not in an overly feminist way, but more genuine and relatable but she struggles with the club and does not feel a part of them, she feels like an outsider and it starts to threaten the bond she has with Savage. As you read through this one, you can see both sides of the issue and you wonder how on earth are they going to resolve this. But they do and its done in a way that is so flawless. Then we have the sex scenes with this one and I knew it would get intense but my goodness I have never known Feehan to write scenes like this before. This was a whole another level than what we have seen from her previously. You aren’t going to be ready for this one here. And I can confirm its definitely more intense than what we received from Annihilation Road, but seeing Seychelle be so giving and open-hearted with Savage and full of acceptance and love within these moments was so heart-achingly beautiful. We see the strength and power of their connection and its entrenched so deep within the vibrancy of their connection which showcases a beautiful romance that captures the heart so easily yet with such depths

I love you, Savin Savage Pajari. I always will. That twisted part of you is what matches the twisted in me.

Overall View
Savage Road is a romance that portrays the challenges that relationships represent but opens the eyes to the depths of love and the ability to overcome any hurdles come what may. It’s a tale that will tear the heart at times but will revitalize the emotion that shines like that of the noon-day sun. Savage and Seychelle’s story is guaranteed to capture the beautiful essence and power of love and its capabilities in such a tremendous manner…..come prepare for a book that will stun you into silence.

This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance

First Impressions
I have been meaning to get more of this author’s works, and when I saw a favorite booktuber raving about this one, I just knew that I needed to pick this one up. I am so happy that I did that. Because this story just was everything that I didn’t know that I needed in my life. It is such a beautiful dark romance that is a retelling of Frozen. I have NEVER read a retelling of Frozen before actually, and it’s loosely a retelling, and those who have read this one probably know to which I am referring. BUT it also has one of my favorite sub-genres which is epic fantasy and I adored how K Webster wrote this one. It had such a mix of darker themes, the perfect setting, an alpha male, and a heroine that is turning into a butterfly. It definitely had its share of Frozen feels (even though I am not a fan of Frozen) we finally get a story that I can get behind and a beautiful epic romance that won my heart so quickly. And as a plus, it’s a super-fast read. This romance is guaranteed to sweep you off your feet and you will be more than happy to go along with the ride.

This woman has power over me—power I didn’t even know existed in this world. Making a powerful man like myself feel powerless is a very dangerous move.

Summary
Elzira, Queen Whitestone, Ruler of the North Icelands, is dying. When she lost her father at a young age, she had to harden herself and become the queen she was born to be. But she is slowly dying and she knows she doesn’t have much time left. Her magic is starting to fade, and the cold is more of a curse than a blessing. But now she has to deal with a neighboring King that wants her sister for his own and wants to unify their forces to fight the nomads that are invading their lands and are like locusts that need to be stopped. Then we have King Ryke Bloodsun, ruler of the Souta Volcanoes and the Truthseeker. He is a formidable warrior and one that sees much more going on with Iceland’s kingdom than their own queen does. Including the fact that Elzira may have power but that power and strength is dwindling with every hour. He begins are taking over the kingdom and while seen as an enemy at first, there is more to Ryke than meets the eye, and the chemistry building between him and Elzira is tearing down the walls that Elzira has built for herself. Because while she knows she can’t trust him, there is something more to Ryke than meets the eye and when he starts to care for Elzira and slowly brings her back to life and power, a fierce love will blossom between the two but is their power enough to defeat the enemies that are both seen and unseen?

From the moment I saw her, I knew she was mine. I never planned on taking her sister or leaving her. No, I was going to make her my queen in every way possible. And that’s my truth.

What I Loved
The Cold Queen was such a breathtaking story that won me over so quickly. And I definitely think if you are looking to get into Dark Romance and you want something that is edgy, I can’t recommend this one enough here. It definitely has so many positive factors to it. I just love the way that this hero surprised me in how he cares for the heroine. As a truthseeker, he can see the truth and the lies and deceptions and I love that he sees all the enemies that surround them and pay attention to the little details, and cares so much for Elzira. Elzira was a heroine that I could definitely get behind and I don’t say that too often with alpha females, but K Webster wrote this heroine in such a way that just worked for me so well. She was so relatable and had vulnerabilities I could get behind. There is such a good balance that grows between these two. I also liked seeing the growth in the heroine and seeing her really come into herself and her abilities. And it’s such a plus when the hero is encouraging her to become who she was meant to be. The sex scenes are pretty hot and there is some mild BDSM. But it’s not extreme or anything. I normally don’t go for short books like this, and even though I could have hoped for something a bit longer as I am selfish and didn’t want this story to end, I also couldn’t get enough of this one either. It had so many elements that worked so well for me. And if you like epic fantasy, and want to see how a Frozen retelling would work…..you definitely need to give this one a chance.

“If I die today,” I rumble. “Know that every second with you was the ultimate gift.”

What I Struggled With
The only thing I can think of is the length …..there could have been more length in this story

Overall View
Cold Queen is a superb read that swept me off my feet, it was packed with a powerhouse of elements that blend together so flawlessly. It’s a story of self-discovery, of renewed hope, standing by the ones you love, and fighting for what matters. Its boldness will win your heart with each chapter and charm your socks off.

Heat blazes through me, my eyes searing into hers. “I’ll burn the whole damn world to the ground. If you can’t exist in my world, then no one else is allowed to.” My cruel queen smiles. “Our love is destructive.” “Only for those who attempt to step between it.”

This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance

“I believe people look away because it is uncomfortable to gaze upon another’s pain when it is bare for the world to see. How do they relate? Or offer words of compassion when they truly cannot understand your pain?”

My Review
First Impressions
The moment I started this audiobook I was actually hooked right away into the story, and I am not sure if it was the writing itself or the talent of the narrator, but I was really pulled into the story and now I am kinda wishing that I had read this one physically and not in the audio format because I might have enjoyed it more. But maybe not, you never do know. I was really drawn into this story here and see what it brought to the forefront and there were so many factors that brought this book into such an array of enjoyment and even though there were elements to the story that I didn’t like, I also loved this sweet romance in ways that I can see why this author has become so well-loved so quickly. I think if you enjoy fewer descriptions in historicals and less authentic historical feels then this one will definitely work in many ways for you. And even though I quite liked this story I didn’t quite love it like I was expecting to.

“The beauty of silence is that it simply is. In the stillness and tranquility, I find peace. Instead of being afraid of the void, I embrace it.”

Summary
Miss Katherine Danvers, while part of a titled family, are a less financially fortunate one. She has been out in the Ton for a few years and hasn’t had many opportunities for much. But then she finds a way to make an opportunity for both herself and her family. She decides to pose as a distant Duke’s fiancee. He is far from London, and what are the odds that he will ever discover what she has truly done. But her fake engagement has take the Ton by storm and surprise when the Duke himself who has kept himself closed off from society enters the doors of a social gathering and all of the ton are there, and now they both are making the pretense of being madly in love. They make a pact with each other that they will provide some opportunity for them both. Alexander Master, ten years ago, suffered a horrible accident from a fire and lost much of the use of his legs, and is scarred in certain areas and he once scared many members of society and has spent years in seclusion. But there is something about Katherine that has made his body and mind come alive with every touch. He knows the time they have together is short, but he is willing to take the risk and enjoy the moment with her. Katherine realizes that winning the heart of the Duke won’t be so easy. He might view this as temporary, but she is determined to win the man’s heart and fight for the love they share.

What I Loved
My Darling Duke was such a sweet romance and it also contained one of my favorite elements in a romance. As much as I love seeing a hero fight for the heroine, my true catnip is actually the heroine fighting for the hero and the heroine in this book was so badass in that she was willing to fight for the Duke’s heart and hand. She falls for him pretty quickly, and even though she knows it won’t be easy to tear down the barriers that he has built for himself, she is also a fighter. While she is financially in need, she also recognizes how good she and Alex are together. I truly adored seeing these sensual moments that build between these two. Seeing their intimacy and bond deepens with each encounter. I also couldn’t seem to get enough of seeing the romance that came to the forefront and oh the SWOONY MOMENTS that just tugged at my heartstrings. Stacy Reid definitely knows how to write those feels that just endear you so quickly. This story had me smiling all over the place for all these endearing moments that won me so quickly.

“I would lay the world at your feet if I could, Katherine.”

“I do not need the whole world. Just a little bit of you, Alexander”

What I Stuggled With
Now for the tough part, on the reasons why the rating was lower than I expected it to be. I will be honest, when I first started this book I actually thought it might get to a five-star, that is how good it worked for me at first. But unfortunately, it didn’t quite work out that way. I think part of the reason is how fast I was listening to the audiobook, just this experience shows me I need to keep it at a moderate pace and that having it too fast just ruins the experience of having a story narrated for me. I also wished there was more historical authenticity with this one. And what I mean by that is if not for the phrases Ton and Duke, I could have thought this was a contemporary. There wasn’t much in the descriptions to convey that it was set in the 1800s, I definitely crave that more in a historical romance and this is something that can take away my enjoyment from reading a historical romance (that is kinda the point haha ) I want it to feel like I am taken back through time, and I just didn’t feel that in this one.

The Narration
I absolutely adored this narrator, it was so well done. I can’t wait to listen to more of this narrators work because I felt like she did such a wonderful job in her narrating abilities. She has such a likable voice, and she handles the male voices very well in my opinion, which can be hard for some female narrators. I really loved her tones of the emotions that she conveyed in the narration and it was just a enjoyable experience listening to her bring this story to life.

Overall View
My Darling Duke was such a story that will charm you with every sensual interaction. Its a story that conveys the tenderness of an intimate relationship and portrays the value of intimacy being more than just sexual need, that the emotional connection can only make those sexual moments sweeter. This book put this author on the map for me and I am excited to explore more of her work. Be ready for a historical romance to curl your toes and keep you wanting for more.