Review: Magic Strikes (Kate Daniels #3) by Ilona Andrews

Magic Strikes by Ilona Andrews

Series: Kate Daniels #3

Genre: Urban Fantasy
Publisher: Ace (March 31, 2009)
Pages: 322
Format: Kindle

Source: Library

Amazon / Goodreads

 

When magic strikes and Atlanta goes to pieces, it’s a job for Kate Daniels…

 

Drafted into working for the Order of Merciful Aid, mercenary Kate Daniels has more paranormal problems than she knows what to do with these days. And in Atlanta, where magic comes and goes like the tide, that’s saying a lot.

 

But when Kate's werewolf friend Derek is discovered nearly dead, she must confront her greatest challenge yet. As her investigation leads her to the Midnight Games—an invitation only, no holds barred, ultimate preternatural fighting tournament—she and Curran, the Lord of the Beasts, uncover a dark plot that may forever alter the face of Atlanta's shapeshifting community…

Rating: 4 Stars - Loved It

Thoughts: I was in need of my Curran fix and I got just that. If read this book then I think you all know what certain scene I am talking about. I found how the packs mate interesting and fun. The Midnight games were crazy good. Really liking Andrea and Kates friendship. Learning more about Kate and even Jim was good. The ending was my 2nd favorite part of the book. Can not tell you the first do not want to spoil anything.

 

I could not remember if I read book 2 as it has been awhile. The Midnight Games sounded interesting so went with Magic Strikes #3. I was not lost at all and did not feel like I missed anything huge. As I enjoyed Kate and a few of the secondary characters and Andrea and Raphael I feel like they were in the previous book. Easy for me to get a feel what is going on but I am sure it would of been nice to see how they got to where they are now.

 

Review: Raphael (Vampire's In America #1) by D.B. Reynolds

Raphael by D.B. Reynolds

Series: Vampire's In America #1

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Publisher: ImaJinn Books (December 10, 2013)

Pages: 224

Format:

Source: Bought

 

Amazon / Goodreads

 

Malibu, California-home to rock-and-roll gods and movie stars, the beautiful, the rich... and vampires.

Powerful and charismatic, Raphael is a Vampire Lord, one of the few who hold the power of life and death over every vampire in existence. Thousands call him Master and have pledged absolute loyalty on their very lives. But when, in a brazen and deadly daylight attack, a gang of human killers kidnaps the one female vampire he'd give his life for, Raphael turns to a human investigator to find his enemies before it's too late.

Cynthia Leighton is smart, tough and sexy, a private investigator and former cop who's tired of spying on cheating spouses and digging out old bank accounts. When Raphael asks for her help in tracking down the kidnappers, Cyn's happy to accept. But she soon realizes her greatest danger comes not from the humans, but from Raphael himself.

Battling Russian mobsters and treacherous vampires, and betrayed by those they trusted, Cyn and Raphael find themselves fighting for their lives while caught up in a passion of blood and violence that is destined to destroy them both.

Rating: 4 Stars - Loved It

 

I have a new Vampire crush and another favorite couple. Raphael is A Powerful Vampire Lord who is  head of all Vamps in his territory. No one betrays Raphael even his vampires or human workers and not pay a price. Every one that knows him or heard of him fears him as they should. Love that readers are shown how powerful Raphael is. He is to the point and has no patience for mistakes. He is protective of all his vampires. Loved that I got enough details on Raphael's past.

 

Cyn has a strong backbone but at the same time has personal issues like everyone else. Has no problem protecting herself from a vampire if it came down to it. She might fear Raphael and his vampires but she sure as not going to show it. She can hold her own with Raphael but also knows when to back off.

 

The Romance was not front and center or love at first sight. Their relationship develops right a long with the story. This worked just fine for me as I got to see Raphael slowly be intrigue with Cyn. Especially since Raphael and other Vampires see Humans weak. The more time Raphael spends with Cyn he does not see her this way.

 

Had some good secondary characters loved Duncan and Lonnie. Duncan is Raphael right hand Vamp. Lonnie is the head of the Feedlot for the vampires also is some what a friend with Cyn. His character did bring some humor to the book.

 

He shrugged and smoothed his hair back with hands that were shaking worse than hers. "I had no choice, Cyn. When Raphael says jump, I say, "Please don’t hurt me, Master."

 

The world building  was easy and right along with Cyn  I was learning about the Vampires ways. Most Vampires do not interact with humans more so in a business dealing. Loved that humans do know Vampires exist but some who have not met any think they are just rumors.

 

Plot was interesting with the kidnapping of Raphael's female vamp. Nice twist I did not see coming. Cyn did have me on the edge of my seat especially with one scene. I was so nervous and not sure how everything was going to work out for her.

 

D.B. Reynolds easy story telling has me wanting more. I think I might of found a new Vampire series.

 

Review: Cash (The Henchmen MC #2) by Jessica Gadziala

Cash by Jessica Gadziala

Series: The Henchmen #2

Genre: Erotica/Contemporary Romance, Biker Romance

Publisher: Author (February 2, 2016)

Pages: 237

Format: Kindle

Source: Bought

 

Amazon / Goodreads

The Henchmen return, this time with CASH as our leading man.

CASH

My life has been about three things- brotherhood, good times, and women. Easy. Nothing complicated. That was until Willow Swift came barging back into my life, face bloodied, banging at the gates of The Henchmen compound calling in a favor owed. Now a marker is a marker and I had to make good, but if there was one woman in the world I didn't need in my life, it was the hard-as-stone, hot-as-sin Willow Swift and whatever mysterious ghosts from her past that were haunting her present.

WILLOW

My life has been nothing but two things: hard and complicated. The last person I wanted in my business was the notorious love-em and leave-em Cash, but I needed help and he was the only one I could lean on without worrying about him finding out about my past. But I was starting to wonder if maybe he was his own kind of dangerous bent on tearing down some things I had long since learned were not possible for me- like falling for a guy I could not, ever, let see the real me.


While this can be read as a stand-alone, you will get more out of this book if you read "Reign" and "Monster" first.  

Rating: 3 Stars - Liked It

POV: Dual 1st

 

Thoughts: Started off good with some fun time bickering with Willow and Cash. Adored his flirty laid back attitude. His personality did help me to cope with her over the top kick ass attitude. He was the perfect guy for her. He had a way of breaking down this huge wall she has built to never let anyone get close to her. I have no experience what she went through in her past and never would want to. I at least have a understanding at why she became the woman she is today. The bad guy is full on creepy. 

 

Was looking forward to Cash and Willow story. Was not a hit but also was not a bust either. Did have the same scenario with Cash not letting his MC brothers in on what was going on with Willow like the first book did with its hero/heroine. Wanted something different in that direction. Same as book one, good plot idea but a lot happens last half of book. Once again repetitive Dual 1st POV.  

 

Noted that this can be a stand alone. But better if read Reign (Henchmen MC #1) the first book and Monster (Savages #1) a different series. I did read Reign first and enjoyed Cash and Willow as secondary characters. I did not read Monster as was not lost. I assuming the one new character is from there. There were 3 groups in this book. I am curious if this series is really going to be focusing more on each couple and the MC life taking the back burner. I was hoping to get more of the MC life and their doings. Once again I am interested in the secondary characters.

Series / Review
1: Reign - 3

Double Quickie Review: Water Bound / Bound Together by Christine Feehan

Read these last year and never gotten around to do a review. I had no plans of finishing Sisters Of The Heart Series anytime soon.  Love my Biker reads and was so excited one of my favorite authors Christine Feehan was coming out with a Biker series Torpedo Ink. Bound Together the last book in Sisters Of The Heart series introduces readers to the Torpedo Ink MC. I had to read it before I started Torpedo Ink series. Personally for me I have no problems reading any Christine Feehan books out of order. Some might so if not sure I would definitely check other reviews. I did feel the last book gave me enough details to what has been happening with the characters that I am curious about.

Water Bound By Christine Feehan

Series: Sisters Of The Heart #1

Genre: Romantic Suspense, Paranormal Romance

Publisher: Berkley Books on July 21, 2010

Pages: 480

Format: Paperback

Source: Bought

Amazon / Goodreads

The last thing Lev Prakenskii remembered was being lost in the swirling currents of the ocean and getting sucked deeper into the nothingness of a freezing black eddy off the coastal town of Sea Haven. Just as quickly, just a miraculously, he was saved—pulled ashore by a beautiful stranger. But Lev has no memory of who he is—or why he seems to possess the violent instincts of a trained killer. All he knows is that he fears for his life, and for the life of his unexpected savior.

Her name is Rikki, a sea~urchin diver in Sea Haven. She has always felt an affinity for the ocean, and for the seductive pull of the tides. And now she feels drawn in the same way to the enigmatic man she rescued. But soon they will be bound by something even stronger, and their tantalizing secrets will engulf them both in a whirlpool of dizzying passion and inescapable danger.

Rating: 3 Stars - Liked It

Thoughts: I really wanted to like this book more. I did not hate it but did not love it either. Rikki has some personal issues do not remember what exactly was wrong with her. I did feel for her struggles in life as Christine Feehan portrayed her personal issue good.  But was also frustrated as the story became repetitive with her personal issue. If a fan of Christine Feehan you will understand how she likes to go into every detail of her books. Usually in her books do not bother me but this time less would of been better for me.

 

Loved Lev as he was Christine Feehans typical alpha male hero. He was so patient with Rikki and her needs.

Bound Together by Christine Feehan

Series: Romantic Suspense, Paranormal Romance, Biker Romance

Genre: Sisters Of The Heart #6

Publisher: Jove on March 21, 2017

Pages: 416

Format: Paperback

Source: Bought

Amazon / Goodreads

For five years, Viktor Prakenskii has put his life on hold in order to take down the world’s most feared motorcycle club from the inside. But carrying out the insane violence and seeing the club’s exploitation of the innocent has brought his traumatic past roaring back. And there’s only one cure: to see the wife he left behind...

Blythe Daniels thought she’d never see Viktor again after he murdered her stepfather and left without a word. She rebuilt her life without him, becoming a personal trainer and physical therapist...becoming strong enough for others to lean on. But when Viktor comes back to Sea Haven, he’ll make Blythe question everything she thought she knew about good and evil—and the dark desires of the heart...

Rating: 4 Stars - Loved It

 

Thoughts: I think Viktor might be one of Christine Feehans most stubborn heroes she has created and loved it. Blythe definitely had her hands full with him. Loved her character and thought she was perfect for him and his crew. The secondary characters were amazing. Really do not know how to live a normal life because of their past. It was nice to see them try to  fit in socially thanks to Blythe who becomes like a mother to them all.

Review: Shadow Falling (The Scorpius Syndrome #2) by Rebecca Zanetti

Shadow Falling by Rebecca Zanetti

Series: The Scorpius Syndrome #1

Genre: Post - Apocalyptic, Romantic Suspense

Publisher: Zebra on January 26, 2016

Pages: 384

Format: Kindle

Source: Bought

 

Amazon / Goodreads

 

Before the Scorpius Syndrome tore through North America and nearly wiped out the population, Vivienne Wellington was the FBI’s best profiler. The bacteria got her anyway. But she survived. She recovered. And when she woke up from a drug-nightmare of captivity, her skills as a hunter of men had gone from merely brilliant to full-on uncanny. Her mysterious rescuer wants her to put them to the test. But no matter how tempting he is, with his angel’s eyes and devil’s tongue, Vinnie knows she shouldn’t trust him.

If the FBI were still around they would rate Raze Shadow as one of the bad guys. His military training can’t wipe out his association with the Mercenaries, the most feared gang in a thousand miles. His loyalties are compromised. He won’t even tell Vinnie his real name. But there’s no FBI in the new America of fear and firepower, only instinct and risk. And the way his arms wrap around her tells its own story. Whatever else Raze is concealing, he can’t hide his desire . . .

Rating: 4 Stars - Loved It

 

Thoughts:  Shadow Falling was a great follow up to Mercury Striking book one. Once again Rebecca Zanetti gave me an alpha male hero to fall for. Anybody Raze cares for it is in his nature to protect them. He has his reasons for being in Vanguard the safe-haven where Jax from Mercury Striking is the leader. Jax still does not fully trust a lot of people and the one who he really is not trusting is Raze. Interesting moments with these two.

 

Vinnie I just adored her character. She was kind of quirky and had a tendency to speak what she was thinking without really wanting to. She really needed a place to feel wanted. Loved the friendship she had with Lynne. Their girl time was fun and never took away from the story. It showed that they are still human and trying to survive as best as they can.

 

Jax and Lynne from book one play a big part in Shadow Falling. Loved seeing how they are doing. He is a hard ass leader and is set in his ways. Love that she is there to help him feel for others emotions. While I was missing the close knit community before I started to feel that everyone is slowly becoming close. Loving the secondary characters more. Like Rebecca Zanetti style always part of the story and this time around were so much fun seeing them interacting. Not only does Rebecca Zanetti teases her readers with one possible couple but two. I have not read any of the synopsis for future books so I am really hoping a certain couple who the possible hero I have no clue if he is a bad or good guy get a story.

 

Few plots going on that help break up the book for me. Not only have the plot with Raze his secrecy and the follow to that but inside Vanguard drama dealing with the Priest.

Series/Rating
1: Mercury Striking - 4

 

 

Review / Quote-Tastic: Saddled and Spurred (Blacktop Cowboys #2) by Lorelei James

Quote-Tastic is a weekly meme hosted by Anna @ Herding Cats & Burning Soup. Share a favorite quotes that's grabbed your for one reason or another. You can ad a review or post just a quote

Saddled and Spurred by Lorelei James

Series: Blacktop Cowboys #2

Genre: Erotic Romance

Publisher: NAL (March 1, 2011)

Pages: 336

Format: Kindle

Source: Bought

 

Amazon / Goodreads

 

This beauty is no greenhorn-and she's about to rope the man of her dreams.

Cattleman Bran Turner is left shorthanded during busy calving season when a bull tramples his hired hand. Rural Wyoming isn't exactly a hotbed of qualified candidates, and the only applicant for the position is the pampered town beauty, Harper Masterson. The curvy cowgirl gets under Bran's skin at every turn, but with no other options, he reluctantly hires her.

When sexual sparks ignite, down-on-her-luck Harper enjoys convincing Bran that not only is she capable of pulling calves, feeding livestock, and handling backbreaking ranch chores, but she doesn't mind getting down and dirty, either. Harper also discovers the hot-bodied cowboy isn't all work and no horseplay...and he's got more than a few tricks up his sleeve.

Bran will learn quickly that Harper is no country mouse-and that she might just have what it takes to stick around for the long haul.

Rating: 4 Stars - Loved It

Thoughts: Lorelei James is not a new author to me as I loved her Rough Riders series. It has been some time and I knew I would eventually get to her Blacktop Cowboys.

I admired Harper the heroine. Her mom is a piece of work and is left raising her younger sister who is finishing high school. Her mom has a bad rep in town and that leaves Harper with not a lot of work options. She is a girly-girl and former pageant queen. Love that she is not whiney or poor is me that life did  not plan out like she hope for. She works twice has hard and will do anything to make sure her sister will go to college. Love that she is a hard worker and takes any job serious. She might be a girly-girl  but has no problem getting dirty and never complains. The best part is she knows how to hold her own towards grouchy Bran.

Bran was an interesting character. He has a chip on his shoulders. His friends from childhood have made a life for themselves. He feels like he is a boring hometown guy and just a rancher. His grandparents raised him and has been running the ranch since he was 17. He took over fully when his grandparents died. There are 2 sides to Bran. Sweet Bran and Grouchy Bran. I loved both.

I had so much fun with them. Nice slow burn romance. Became friends before lovers.  Had perfect chemistry even when bickering. He sends mix signals. She does not know if he likes her or hates her. They were so cute and playful could not get enough of them.

He slapped his bare thighs. "Okay. Now you can sit on my lap."

Harper whirled around, her eyes immediately zeroing in on his erection. "My, my. What a hard, hot poker you have there, Mr. Turner."

"All the better to stoke your fire with, baby."

Loved the secondary characters. All have their own personality and voices. His friends are his family and have good amount of page time. I want Abe and Janie story. Celia who is her best friend and Brans best friend little sister was a hoot.

"Drop your cock and grab your socks, Bran. Your new hired hand will be on your front stoop within the hour." The phone went dead.

It has been a while since I laughed so hard reading a Erotic Romance. I had tears in my eyes from laughing so hard with the goat scene. August Fletcher "Fletch" the veterinarian scene was a giggle moment too. Overall a feel good book that I could not help but smile through out.

I loved experiencing right along with Harper everyday ranching. Lorelei James is the Queen of Erotic Romance, Delicious Cowboys and families in a small town setting. I feel this can be read as a stand alone book. I did not read the first book as was not in the mood for a ménage and was not lost. There is some minor family drama but nothing you can not get on board with.

 

Review: Beyond The Cut by Sarah Castille

Beyond The Cut by Sarah Castille

Series: Sinner's Tribe Motorcycle Club #2

Genre: Contemporary Romance, Biker Romance

Publisher: St. Martin's Paperbacks (June 2, 2015)

Pages: 352

Format: Kindle

Source: Bought

 

Amazon / Goodreads

 

She's Holding On Tight.

As a teen, Dawn ran from a life on the streets straight into the arms of Jimmy "Mad Dog" Sanchez, a biker who promised to be her knight in shining armor. But his love was just another cage. Years later, Dawn's former life still has its hooks in her and she'll do whatever it takes to break free. When Cade "Ryder" O'Connor, a member of a rival club, makes her an offer, Dawn finds herself in a different, hotter kind of trouble with one irresistible Sinner…

Will He Give Her The Ride Of Her Life?

Cade is an outlaw biker with allegiance to one thing and one thing only: The Sinner's Tribe Motorcycle Club. But when it comes to the stunningly sexy, fiercely independent Dawn Delgado, Cade finds himself…hungrier for more. Trouble is on Dawn's heels and he wants to be the answer to her prayers, whether she wants him to be or not. What can't be denied is the red-hot attraction between them. However, as they fall deeper, the danger rises and Cade may have to sacrifice it all…

Rating: 4 Stars - Loved It

Thoughts: I adored Cade especially when he was spending time with Dawn and her 7 year old twin girls. Love family and kids in my reads. Sarah Castille did a great job with Dawn's daughters. Loved  seeing him interact with the kids. Seeing a badass alpha male biker be gentle and trying to understand them was a so much fun.

I felt so bad for Dawn. It is hard enough to raise kids as a single parent on your own. But to have a crappy ex who is just evil and to top it off his shit of a sister making her life hell is the worst. Poor thing could not catch a break from them.

I am loving this series.

 

Series/Ranting

1: Rough Justice - 4

Review / Quote-Tastic: Claimed by Elle Kennedy

Quote-Tastic is a weekly meme hosted by Anna @ Herding Cats & Burning Soup. Share a favorite quotes that's grabbed your for one reason or another. You can ad a review or post just a quote

Claimed by Elle Kennedy

Series: Outlaws #1

Genre: Erotic Romance, Dystopian Romance

Publisher: Signet (October 6, 2015)

Pages: 370

Format: Kindle

Source: Bought

 

Amazon / Goodreads

 

The bestselling author of the Killer Instincts novels “knows how to write scorching sexual tension” (USA Today). Now she really sets it on fire in a new series about men and women living on the edge of violence, sex, and life and death.

After a devastating war decimated most of the world, Hudson Lane has only known the oppressive life under her own father’s tyranny. She finally escapes, branding herself an outlaw and hunted by the Enforcers. Her best chance at survival is Connor Mackenzie, an aggressively sensual fugitive who opens her eyes to the wicked possibilities of a world without rules.

As the leader of a band of outlaw fighters, Connor can’t resist the beautiful stranger who asks for his protection. Despite his reservations, he agrees to introduce her to a whole new way of life. But when Connor discovers Hudson’s connection to the enemies of liberty, he wonders how far he can trust the woman who has abandoned all inhibitions to challenge every forbidden desire.

Rating: 3 Stars - Liked It

 

Thoughts: What an interesting world Elle Kennedy has created. Have Global Council that run a strict controlled environment where Hudson the heroine is running from. Then have the outlaws who live in the moment. What a bunch of highly sexual characters. Sexual encounters (M/F/M and Voyeur) is part of their life and not embarrassed. Love their out look on life in a Dystopia world. As for the Erotic in Claimed loved it. Well written sexy times with a delicious dirty talking hero. The sexual tension was amazing.

 

"He's close, baby. Suck harder. Work that cock until you get him there."

 

Connor was an interesting character as Hudson was trying to figure him out I was right there with her. I was just as frustrated like Hudson wondering why he will not give her what she wants sexually. He is a grouch, jerk and straight to the point and  I loved it. Once I found out about his past everything made sense. 

 

 "You started all this by licking Ry, remember? Next time, if you want me inside you, I suggest you lick me."

 

This is the second novel I have read by Elle Kennedy and once again loving her heroine. Wow was she a sexually aroused  sweet heart. Loved that now she is free from her world of being controlled she is not shy and wants to experience Connors world. Seeing her form a friendship with the secondary characters was wonderful. Really feel her fitting in with Connor's small tight group of not by blood family.

 

I loved that I already have my favorite secondary characters and want to know more about. Pike with his she devil wolf could not get enough of. What is up with his grouchy ass. Rylan the charmer I want and need to know more about him and The Reigning Queen of Foxworth.

 

I knew going in this was an erotic novel. As much as I loved all the characters in Claimed I needed a good balance between the erotic moments and the overall story. Beginning and ending was amazing but the middle did feel like a sex fest filler. Maybe I am just greedy and wanted more time spent with all the characters.  I do want to find out what is happening with the other characters.
 

Review: Wolf's Mate by Celia Kyle

Wolf's Mate by Celia Kyle

Series: Shifter Rogues #1

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Publisher: Forever (March 27, 2018)

Pages: 352

Format: Paperback

Source: Bought

 

Amazon / Goodreads

 

Danger shouldn't be this sexy...

Cougar shifter Abby Carter always plays it safe. That's why she's an accountant--no excitement, no danger, and no cocky alpha males. She loves her quiet life, but fate has other plans. When Abby uncovers the shady dealings of an anti-shifter organization, she'll have to trust the too-sexy-for-her-peace-of-mind werewolf Declan Reed... or end up six feet under.

Declan Reed is starting over. After two years with Shifter Operations Command, it's time to put his past behind him. Now Declan is the only thing standing between the gorgeous Abby and an early grave, and if he's going to have any chance of keeping her alive, he'll have to embrace the darkness he's fought to keep at bay. But first he has to convince Abby that there's no safer place in the world than the arms of a big bad werewolf.

Rating: 3 Stars - Liked It

POV: 3rd

Thoughts: Oh Declan (wolf shifter) you had me the moment you defied orders to go after your mate. I just love a crazy ass alpha male shifter who does not care of the consequences. The slow burn romance was good. 

 

Declan is part of the SHOC (Shifter Operations Command). A group of different shifters enlisted not by choice to help the shifter community. Wow what a group of shifters. Loved that all the secondary characters had their own voice and personality. Play a good role in the book that makes me interested for their stories. They all had some great bickering and fun banter moments that had me smiling. 

 

While I loved the interaction with the secondary characters I did also felt at times it was a little over the top. Sometimes less is better. It almost at times felt childish and was more annoying than fun.

 

I am thinking this series is more on the fun, kind of quirky side. Celia Kyle is a new to me author and I do want to see how book two plays out.

 

Life / Review: Ruin & Rule by Pepper Winters

Hi everyone. Been a little busy last week with work and weekend home spring cleaning. I have had this book on my mind the last few days and was going to write a review when I realize I wrote a review end of last year on goodreads before I started blogging again. Hope to get to visiting blogs this week. Have a great week.

Ruin & Rule by Pepper Winters

Series: Pure Corruption MC

Genre: Dark Contemporary Romance, Biker Romance

Publisher: Forever (July 7, 2015)

Pages: 416

Format: Kindle

Source: Bought

Amazon / Goodreads

"We met in a nightmare. The in-between world where time had no power over reason. We fell in love. We fell hard. But then we woke up. And it was over . . ."

RUIN & RULE

She is a woman divided. Her past, present, and future are as twisted as the lies she's lived for the past eight years. Desperate to get the truth, she must turn to the one man who may also be her greatest enemy . . .

He is the president of Pure Corruption MC. A heartless biker and retribution-deliverer. He accepts no rules, obeys no one, and lives only to reap revenge on those who wronged him. And now he has stolen her, body and soul.

Can a woman plagued by mystery fall in love with the man who refuses to face the truth? And can a man drenched in darkness forgo his quest for vengeance-and finally find redemption?  

Rating: 3 Stars - Liked It

 

Thoughts: I was enjoying it in the beginning as it was intense and had an edge to it. I was slowly feeling different emotions for Kill the hero and the heroine. Loved trying to piece together what was happening. I had so many questions and thought I had so many answers. Some were right and some I was way off. But then the plot took a different direction and from there it started to go down hill a little bit. I got some answers about Kill but then new questions popped up. He actually started to annoy me. I finally understood why he kept things from the heroine or really I have an idea has my new questions were never really fully answered. Especially since not everything is what it seems to be. The story started to drag out in places. I felt like a lot of scenes seemed like fillers. I know there is a second book but I do not know when or if I will read it.

This is not your typical MC book. Get a glimpse of the Pure Corruption MC. Their take on running their club is different and interesting.
 

Review: Fierce by Nina Levine

Fierce by Nina Levine

Series: Storm MC #2

Genre: Contemporary Romance, Biker Romance

Publisher: Nina Levine (February 27, 2014)

Pages: 298

Format: Kindle

Source: Bought

Amazon / Goodreads

 

She’s everything he’s never wanted. He’s everything she’s never known 

Scott Cole is a force to be reckoned with. As Vice President of the Storm Motorcycle Club he carries out his duties with a ruthless determination. He moves through life with a clear agenda - protect his club and his family at all costs.

He is intense.

He is loyal.

He is fierce.

He doesn’t give his love easily, but when he does, he loves fiercely. Settling down, however, has never been part of his plan.

Harlow James is a country girl who has never met a biker in her life. She is also done with men. In her experience all they ever do is lie, cheat or steal. When she meets Scott Cole she knows he is heartbreak on legs.

He is confident.

He is sexy.

He is bossy.

She knows she must fight her growing attraction to this complex man in order to guard her heart. When his world crashes into hers and danger comes calling, Scott’s fierce desire to protect kicks in and Harlow realises that she might just have found a man worth taking a risk on.

Rating: 4 Stars - Loved It

Thoughts: I liked Storm book one but did have a few issues. Being told instead of shown, good scenes brushed over and annoying heroine. I enjoyed author writing voice and storytelling but felt she was holding back. I knew I would be reading Scott's story in Fierce as he really saved the first book for me and was curious where this series is going.

Wow Scott's story had everything I was missing before. By 9% Scott had me swooning over his character. His neighbors daughter was a nice addition to the story. Played a good part in the story that helped see the softer side to him.  Everyone thinks he is an asshole but really he just tells how it is. He does not always have the best person skills. Only get one shot with him, does not apologize or forgive easy. As long as you do not cross him he will always have your back.

It was so easy to fall for Harlow's character. She is caring and a sweetheart.  Loved that she was there taking care of her mom. She might not understand the Biker life but when stuff gets bad she has no problem letting bad people get what they deserve.

I loved the slow burn romance. Sexual tension was amazing with a delicious dirty talking hero. Scott does not do relationships and really has no clue at it. No woman has ever challenged him until he met Harlow. They are so cute and fun together.

This is the second time now Nina Levine got me interested in a secondary character. Oh how I want Blades story.

 

Series / Rating

#1 Storm - 3 

Review / Quote - Tastic: Burn For Me by Ilona Andrews

 

Quote-Tastic is a weekly meme hosted by Anna @ Herding Cats & Burning Soup. Share a favorite quotes that's grabbed your for one reason or another. You can ad a review or post just a quote.

Burn For Me by Ilona Andrews

Series: Hidden Legacy #1

Genre: Romatic Urban Fantasy

Publisher: Avon on October 28, 2014

Pages: 406

Format:Kindle

Source: Bought

Amazon / Goodreads

#1 New York Times bestselling author Ilona Andrews launches a brand new Hidden Legacy series, in which one woman must place her trust in a seductive, dangerous man who sets off an even more dangerous desire…

Nevada Baylor is faced with the most challenging case of her detective career—a suicide mission to bring in a suspect in a volatile case. Nevada isn’t sure she has the chops. Her quarry is a Prime, the highest rank of magic user, who can set anyone and anything on fire.

Then she’s kidnapped by Connor “Mad” Rogan—a darkly tempting billionaire with equally devastating powers. Torn between wanting to run or surrender to their overwhelming attraction, Nevada must join forces with Rogan to stay alive.

Rogan’s after the same target, so he needs Nevada. But she’s getting under his skin, making him care about someone other than himself for a change. And, as Rogan has learned, love can be as perilous as death, especially in the magic world.

Rating: 5 Stars - Amazing

Thoughts: Can Rogan be anymore of an ass but at the same time sexy. He is unapologetic, stubborn, smartass  and love him for that. He does not make threats or promises he states facts. No one tells him no and thinks he can do whatever he wants. He does not feel rules apply to him. If he wants something he buys it. If he can not buy something he takes it. He has no sensitivity towards others. If he does something good for someone there is a reason that will benefit him. He is a powerful man in this world that the fabulous wife-husband writing team Ilona Andrews have created. For most of his traits I understand he is the way he is. You can not show weakness when you are high-powered. Now for some of his other traits I am curious about.  Lets not forget you annoy him and he will kill you simple as that. The best part I adore is how he loves to mess with Nevada.

 

"Maybe you should make me a list of people I can kill and ways in which they’re allowed to die," he said.

 

"You are not funny."

 

"I'm very funny. Just ask Peaches."

Nevada has some of the craziest thoughts about dragons relating to Rogan. The devotion and love she has for her family are amazing. She is opposite of Rogan as she has empathy for others. She does not think before she speaks that lead to some fun moments with Rogan. It was so easy to fall for her character. She has no problem telling Rogan no or putting him in his place.

 

"You seem to be under the impression that I work for you and you can give me orders. Let me fix that." I hung up.

I had so much fun reading Burn For Me. Action, humor, maybe a small burn romance in the making. Since Rogan and Nevada are working a case together he does have a good amount of page time. Their banter was entertaining and they had perfect chemistry.

 

"One school of thought says that the best way to handle an issue like this is exposure therapy," Mad Rogan said. "For example, if you're terrified of snakes, repeated handling of them will cure it."

 

Aha. "I'm not handling your snake."

 

He grinned. "Baby, you couldn't handle my snake."

 

Secondary characters were so much fun. Her family added so much to the story. Her grandma was my favorite. Look forward to reading book 2.
 

Review / Quote -Tastic: Undeserving by Madeline Sheehan

 

Quote-Tastic is a weekly meme hosted by Anna @ Herding Cats & Burning Soup. Share a favorite quotes that's grabbed your for one reason or another. You can ad a review or post just a quote.

Undeserving by Madeline Sheehan

Series: Undeniable #5

Genre: Contemporary Romance, Biker Romance

Publisher: July 31st, 2017 by Author

Pages: 341

Format: Kindle

Source: Bought
 

Amazon / Goodreads

Warning: This isn’t a romance, but instead a tale of love between two despairing people, from two different worlds, both aching for something more.

Debbie Reynolds is a runaway, New York City-bound. Living on the road comes with many challenges—fighting for her next meal, seeking safe places to sleep, and dodging men with less than honorable intentions, all while searching for meaning in a life she finds painful and pointless.

Damon “Preacher” Fox, vice president of the Silver Demons Motorcycle Club, has been in prison for club-related crimes. As his release draws near, he begins to reevaluate his choices in life, realizing that if he stays with the club, this won’t be his last stint behind bars. Suddenly Preacher finds himself doubting everything he’s ever known, wishing for a life beyond the club.

When Preacher and Debbie’s paths cross, they find in each other a sense of peace they had been lacking. But life is about to catch up with Preacher, and Debbie, desperate to keep the one person who’s ever shown her any kindness, finds herself caught between forces far deadlier and more powerful than she could have ever imagined.

This is Debbie and Preacher’s story.

At the end, we should all go back to the beginning,
if only to remind ourselves that we once lived.

Rating: 5 Stars - Amazing

Thoughts: After the teaser readers got of  ZZ from Unbeloved (Undeniable #4) I was really hoping book 5 was going to be his story. But since the story had taken a different direction I understood the need to tell Preacher story first. Wow what a story he had to share. I was not prepared to have my heart broken. The feels were all over the place as I shed a few tears, wanted to strangle a few characters and had a few smiles.

Never really new a whole lot about Preacher. Only that he is the hard ass President of Silver Demons MC and loving father to Eva. Loved how Preacher story was told from him with present and past. I was right there with him experiencing his life.    

 

Loved meeting new characters. Really not new characters but more characters that have been connected to Preacher and this series. I now have an understanding why Frankie Jr. turned out the way he did.

I know this is Preacher story but Deuce and Eva started the Undeniable series with Undeniable and have been a big part of the series and big part of his book. Loved this couple then and loved them more through out. Deuce might be rough around the edges especially in earlier books and made some mistakes. They have had their ups and downs like real life couples do. Loved seeing him stand by his wife and the support he gives her had me swooning. 

"It ain’t gonna be easy," he continued, "But I know you, Eva, and you’re gonna be just fine. You know how I know?"

I looked up to find his eyes on me. "How?"

A corner of his mouth lifted. "Cause I’m gonna make damn sure of it."

Undeserving was unpredictable and had me on the edge of my seat. One thing I love about this series is I never know what I am in for. Preacher story was thoroughly thought out and as reader I am thankful for that. Well done Madeline Sheehan. The twisted, raw and gritty feel I got from Underserving brought back memories from the earlier books in the series. Strong secondary characters play a good roll through out the series. I find them best to be read in order.

 

ZZ sneak peak has me nervous and more excited for his story. Nervous for ZZ as he already has caused crazy chaos.  Excited for when a certain character(s) finds out what ZZ has done. Lets just say it is not going to go well. Yes I am twisted as I want the raw, gritty feel with ZZ story.

Series Order / Rating
#1 Undeniable - 4
#2 Unbeautifully - 4
#3 Unattainable - 4
#4 Unbeloved - 3

Review: Behind The Hands That Kill by J.A. Redmerski

Behind The Hands That Kill by J.A. Redmerski

Series: In The Company Of Killers #6

Genre: Suspense

Publisher: J.A. Redmerski on May 6, 2016

Format: Kindle

Pages: 204

Source: Bought

Amazon / Goodreads

Even professional killers need vacations, but for Victor Faust, his vacation in Venezuela is about more than relaxation and time alone with Izabel Seyfried. It is a chance for him to come clean to Izabel: to tell her the truth about why he sent her to Italy with his brother, the truth behind his interest in Nora Kessler, and about his knowledge of Izabel’s child with her former captor. But before Victor can spill his soul, reality proves that for some killers, vacations are just pipe-dreams.

Attacked and kidnapped, Izabel finds herself stuffed in a suitcase, while Victor later wakes up imprisoned in a cage. In any other situation, Victor would find a way out and save himself and the woman he loves—but not this time. When the identities of their kidnappers are revealed, Victor loses all hope, and begins the mental process of accepting his and Izabel’s last moments together. And Izabel’s final moments of life.

As if his circumstances are not complicated enough, members of Vonnegut’s Order are finally closing in on Victor. And when they do, he comes face-to-face with someone else he once knew and loved, who could either help him, or make a grave situation much worse. Victor’s past has finally caught up with him: the women he has cared for, loved, and killed; the families he has destroyed; the unforgivable crimes he has committed. And now he must face the consequences, and pay the ultimate price for absolution.

But when it is all over, Victor may not have the strength to pick up what is left and move on. Because the event changes him. Because love changed him. And because, unlike before when he thought it is was for the best, he cannot imagine a life without Izabel in it.

Thoughts: I needed to know all about the man Behind The Hands That Kill. I got that and so much more with present to past through out that fit perfectly with the plot. I loved that I got to experience his past instead of being told.

Not only is Victor and Isabel love tested but also my love for his character as well. He has done many bad things I was able to look past but one particular scene I had a hard time with. As a huge fan of In The Company Of Killers I know J.A. Redmerski is not one to hold anything back with her characters. I should of known she could never be that cruel.  I also should of known that not everything is what it seems to be when it comes to Victor. He always has a reason for his doings. Thankfully the scene I had a hard time with was handled. Because right along with Izabel I would of not been able to look past that.

 

I had a serious girl crush on Izabel. She has come a long way since the beginning of this series. Her character shined and showed some growth that I understand why Victor loves her.

 

There are a some new characters introduce. I am not sure about one of them but the other did catch my attention. There was a lot going on in Behind The Hands That Kill. This does leave different directions this series can go in the future.  Best read in order.

Rating: 4 Stars - Loved It

Series Order / Rating
#1 - Killing Sarai - 4
#2 - Reviving Izabel - 4
#3 - The Swan & The Jackal - 5
#4 - Seeds Of Iniquity - 5
#5 - The Black Wolf - 3

Review: Kill Without Mercy by Alexandra Ivy

Kill Without Mercy by Alexandra Ivy

Series: ARES Security #1

Genre: Romantic Suspense

Publisher: Zebra on December 29, 2015

Pages: 368

Format: Paperback

Source: Bought

 

From the hellhole of a Taliban prison to sweet freedom, five brave military heroes have made it home—and they’re ready to take on the civilian missions no one else can. Individually they’re intimidating. Together they’re invincible. They’re the men of ARES Security.
 
Rafe Vargas is only in Newton, Iowa, to clear out his late grandfather’s small house. As the covert ops specialist for ARES Security, he's eager to get back to his new life in Texas. But when he crosses paths with Annie White, a haunted beauty with skeletons in her closet, he can't just walk away—not when she’s clearly in danger…

There’s a mysterious serial killer on the loose with a link to Annie’s dark past. And the closer he gets, the deeper Rafe’s instinct to protect kicks in. But even with his considerable skill, Annie’s courage, and his ARES buddies behind him, the slaying won’t stop. Now it’s only a matter of time before Annie’s next—unless they can unravel a history of deadly lies that won’t be buried.

Thoughts: Alexandra Ivy is not a new to me Author as I have enjoyed her Vampire series, Guardians Of Eternity. It has been some time since I read them and was curious how she would do in a different genre. Kill Without Mercy is the first book in her Romantic Suspense, ARES Security series. It was not a big hit with me but at the same time it was not a bust either. 

 

The suspense was good for the first half and awesome in the second half. Earlier in the book was easy to put down and pick back up. Once the suspense really started to kick in more I could not flip my pages fast enough.

 

I could not connect with  Rafe and Annie as a couple. They had no chemistry or never felt a spark with them. I have no idea what they seen in each other. This is going to sound weird but the only time I had  a connection with them is when both trying to figure out who the killer is and how is he/she linked to her past.

Rating: 3 Stars - Liked It

Amazon / Goodreads