{WICKED WINTER SATURDAYS} HONEY RED by LIZ CROWE

 

"Spring is here, and pollen is in the air. While you're sneezing your way towards Summer, pop those Claritin and lose yourself in a Sultry Spring Read."

Sexy Saturdays is a weekly post we started to challenge ourselves to read more steamy books and have a lot of fun. Feel free to join in. (let us know so we can add a link to your post).

The Autumn Review
Sim-Sational Books
Hackaroo's Review
Paranormal and Urban Fantasy Reviews
Insightful Minds Reviews
My Secret Romance
Globug and Hootie Need a Book


**The books featured on SULTRY SPRING SATURDAYS are for adults. If you are under 18 years of age, or do not like smexy books, please stop here. **

Genre: Erotic Romance
Publisher: Tri Destiny Publishing
Publication Date: 12/30/13
Format: eARC
Source: Received from publisher for review

Two men suffering from visible and invisible wounds meet by chance circumstance.

Nick Traynor and Ian Donovan spend a lot of time and effort keeping it very hot, only physical, and purely superficial. But when their resolve starts to slip, a woman is tossed into their midst.

Hannah Williams wants nothing more than to do her job until something better comes along, but is forced to own up to her visceral reaction to Ian, her new boss, and later to Nick, his sometimes lover.

Lust has a funny way of turning into companionship, and eventually evolving into a deeper connection. Faced with the internal and external complications of their potential three-way relationship, they begin to heal and trust, to consider that it might work. Then life tosses them a hardball, forcing them back into their respective corners, where each must choose what is most important.

Three people determined not to commit, thrown together by fate and undeniable attraction--their nights heat up and emotions run high in spite of a claimed mutual desire to "keep it simple." In the process of honest self-discovery, can they learn that while love is never simple, it is definitely worth fighting for?

 

Honey Red was a lot more than I expected, and I really liked it.

In this story, you have three people dealing with their own complicated issues. Ian is the center of this unique relationship. He a single father, a former f*ck up, and I seriously liked him. He had this really blunt manner that made me smile, and I loved his personality. Ian is bisexual, and he has fallen in love with a man, Nick.

Nick was heartbreaking. A Vet who lost his love in an attack in the Middle East, the same attack that left him blind, Nick is broken, and understandably angry at the world. He was turned away by his parents when he came out in college, and all he has left is his sister, who is dating Ian's brother Gavin. Nick and Ian are immediately attracted to each other, and quickly act on it. But Nick's issues, both mental and physical, cause his to drive Ian away, into the arms of Hannah...

Hannah is a recent grad school graduate and she needs a job in a bad way. When she lands a job at Gavin and Ian's brewery, she is quick to notice the sexy Ian. But since she's been told that he prefers his own gender, Hannah doesn't think she has a chance with Ian. When she finds out that he indeed does like both men and women, she gives in to the attraction, but believing he can only love Nick, she tries to keep their encounters casual.

Until she meets Nick for herself. Then she understands why Ian is so hung up on him. As a matter of fact, she'd like to partake in Nick herself, and of course Ian is totally on board with that. After some convincing, Nick agrees to become involved with both Ian and Hannah. Things go well, until the dynamics of the relationship are put to the test. A few bumps and surprises occur along the way. Along with some hot hot hot lovin'. Wow, Liz Crowe really brought the steam in Honey Red. And I loved every single moment!

But seriously, besides the fun, complicated, and hot relationship, Honey Red was both sad and inspiring, particularly where Nick is concerned. I quickly became engrossed in the story and could hardly put it down. It was a really, really good story and I will definitely read more from this author in the future.


Favorite Quote:

  "You know what," Nick muttered into her neck as he trailed a hand up her thigh. "You need to make a beer that tastes like this." His hand went higher, disappearing under her robe.
  Ian laughed and brought the plate of food to the table. "Dude, if I could make a beer that tasted like p***y I would be a zillionaire by now."  ~76%

You can purchase Honey Red at:

Amazon | Barnes & Noble |  iBooks

{WICKED WINTER SATURDAY} SURRENDER TO TEMPTATION and THE ROCKER THAT HOLDS ME

Baby, it's cold outside! Time to snuggle up with a mug of hot chocolate (or a glass of wine!) and fall into a steamy, sexy book.

Wicked Winter Saturdays is a weekly post we started to challenge ourselves to read more steamy books and have a lot of fun. Feel free to join in. (let us know so we can add a link to your post).

The Autumn Review
Sim-Sational Books
Hackaroo's Review
Paranormal and Urban Fantasy Reviews
Insightful Minds Reviews


**The books featured on WICKED WINTER SATURDAYS are for adults. If you are under 18 years of age, or do not like smexy books, please stop here. **

Series: Surrender to Temptation, Pt 3
Genre: Erotic Romance
Publisher: Intermix
Publication Date: 1/153
Format: eARC
Source: Received from publisher.

After retreating into himself emotionally, Zach returns to Devon with a shocking request. Used to completely vanilla sex, Devon isn't sure how far she's willing to go and informs Zach she's not ready. After days pass with no contact, Devon starts to feel angry and used--and while she might be inexperienced in sex, she isn't about to let someone walk all over her. Catching Zach off-guard in the office, Devon is prepared for an explosive reaction, but not for the sexual way he decides to relieve their tension. Unable to focus, she needs a moment to escape the complications of her once simple life. But when she runs into someone from her past, Devon learns that Zach isn't as distant as he'd like her to believe...

I was anxious and a little worried to start this installment of the Surrender to Temptation Series. After the ending of Tempted to Rebel, with Zach freaking out, I wanted to know what the heck was going on with this mysterious, controlling man.

Let me say that I don't typically like to read about men like Zach. It's not that I don't get the D/s aspect, it's just that I hate the guy talking to the girl like she's a piece of sh*t. And this does rub me the wrong way with Zach, but I'm so curious about his mood shifts and what ever it is that has him so tortured. Plus, he made a very shocking request of Devon. I'm dying to know what is up with that!

Tempted to Obey is by far my favorite installment of this series. It was seductive, surprising, twisty, and super sexy. I think I'm becoming addicted to Surrender to Temptation.

Favorite Quotes:


  "Your skin looks lovely against black lace." Zach's voice was rough, silk over gravel, as he whirled me around yet again. I leaned back against the wall, my arched back thrusting my breasts and their erect nipples forward, an offering for him.
  Black lace. Oh, lord.
  He had tied me up with my own panties.  ~eARC



Series: Surrender to Temptation, Pt.4
Genre: Erotic Romance
Publisher: Intermix
Publication Date: 1/22/13
Format: eARC
Source: Received from publisher.

With playboy billionaire Zachariah St. Brenton, Devon has felt more pleasure than she ever thought possible. But behind her lover's infinite sexual appetite lies a conflicted man. Devon wants Zach to understand that she has no intention of betraying him. He thinks she should fear him, but Devon wants to go deeper and feel every intimacy that Zach has to offer--even if that means experiences that both shock and thrill her. But as Zach brings Devon further into his lifestyle, she finds herself wanting things that Zach isn't ready--or willing--to give. Devon knows that Zach has been upfront about his limits from the beginning, but it's hard to resist the temptation to break the rules... Includes a bonus excerpt of Lauren Jameson's upcoming novel, "Blush." More to come...Don't miss "Surrender to Temptation," Part V, available 1/29.

At this point, I'm starting to feel a bit redundant. The stories definitely have a pattern. Zach pisses Devon off, or vice versa, and someone storms away. After a few minutes, or a few days, Devon makes a half-hearted attempt to tell the Zach it's definitely over this time. At which point, Zach turns her so on that they have passionate, angry sex. Then Devon wants more, Zach doesn't want to open up, and she storms away again. Pattern. BUT, I love Jameson's writing. She's an excellent writer of erotica, and I can't get enough.

This installment had one of the hottest scenes I've ever read. So hot, I nearly fell off the bleachers at soccer practice. (Yes, I read erotica at soccer practice. I get bored and I don't want to talk to the other moms.) Seriously? Unff. This scene is going into the dark recesses of my brain for further examination.


Favorite Quote:

    "Devon." With the hand not holding my chin, he tucked a wisp of my ponytail behind my ear.
  When I dared to look up at him, I found no pretense in his expression or demeanor.
     "There's nothing wrong with wanting what you want. What I want is to share something with you that will bring us both pleasure."  


Series: Surrender to Temptation, Pt 5
Genre: Erotic Romance
Publisher: Intermix
Publication Date: 1/29/13
Format: eARC
Source: Received from publisher.

Devon can't ignore the intense desire she feels every time she sees Zach, so it doesn't take much convincing for Devon to agree to spend the weekend with him and further explore the physical side of their connection. On the way to his weekend house, an unnerving experience forces Devon and Zach to channel their nervous energy into an explosive sexual encounter. And as they settle in for a weekend of delicious intimacy, it seems that their relationship is finally in a good place. But when Devon reveals the depth of her feelings for Zach, his reaction throws everything they've shared--and everything they could become--into chaos...
Includes a bonus excerpt of Lauren Jameson's upcoming novel, "Blush." More to come...Don't miss the sizzling conclusion to "Surrender to Temptation," Part VI, available 2/5.

 

Okay, Part IV was my favorite, but this installment was first runner-up. Of course, Zach and Devon fight again. And of course, she storms off. And of course he comes back for her. But Zach's walls are slowly coming down, and he's opening up to her bit by bit. At the end of this is another crucial moment between the pair and I'm wondering if they'll ever get it together.

There's a fun surfing scene, and a hot bondage scene. Whoa. Like I've said many times, Lauren Jameson is a fantastic writer of erotica.

Favorite Quote:

  Though we had been together countless times now, I still couldn't quite believe I was here. It felt like the very best of dreams.
  "I want you now." Zach teased as he playfully pulled me closer. "Here where anyone can see us."


Series: Surrender to Temptation, Pt. 6
Genre: Erotic Romance
Publisher: Intermix
Publication Date: 2/5/13
Format: eARC
Source: Received from publisher.

Lies, secrets, and desires are laid bare as Devon and Zach realize what it will take to belong to each other completely--in the thrilling conclusion of Lauren Jameson's "Surrender to Temptation."..
"Surrender to Temptation, " Part VI
"Tempted to Possess"" "The night that Devon and Zach met a spark ignited--a sensual connection that followed them wherever they went, defying all sense and reason. But Zach's inner turmoil and Devon's need to be more than an object of desire created complications that neither expected. After their devastatingly explosive encounters, Devon is certain that Zach wants her despite himself. Now, she has to convince him that with her, he should be able to let go. But for a man like Zach who's so used to controlling everything, giving in may be the ultimate test... " "Includes a bonus excerpt of Lauren Jameson's upcoming novel, "Blush."

 And so the tale of Zach and Devon's sexual journey comes to an end. I was pretty sure the two would end up together, but had no idea how it could come about. Once again, Zach hauls Devon out of the office and is determined she will listen to him. I was happy that he finally came clean with his issues, and confessed his feelings. I will say, though, that his deep dark secret was a bit anticlimatic. Not that it wasn't sad, but I was expecting far worse from someone so messed up.

I did enjoy how the story ended. I'm a big fan of Lauren Jameson's and will say if you like erotic serial novellas, give this series a chance.


Favorite Quote:

  "With you--God, Devon, with you I don't have to control everything. It's the first time in years that I've been able to breathe."

 

Purchase Surrender to Temptation, Parts 1-6 at:

 

Category/Genre: New Adult Contemporary Romance
Publisher: Anna Henson
Publication Date: 1/24/13
Format: ebook
Pages: 99
Source: Received from author for review

Touring with four rockers is the thing of dreams…

At least that is what people tell me. To me those four rockers are my family. They have watched over me from the time I was five years old. Protecting me from my mother and her drunken, drug addict rages. When they made it big they still watched over me. And when my monster of a mother died they took over as my guardians.

In the six years since that happened I have watched over the four men that
mean everything to me. I take care of them just as they once took care of me. I handle all the dirty work behind the scenes of a rockers life. It isn’t always pretty. At times it came be damn near disgusting, especially when I have to get rid of their one night stands. Ugh!

Taking care of them doesn’t bother me though. I mean it’s not like I’m in love with one of them. That would be crazy. Falling for a rocker is NOT smart.

Okay, so I’m not smart. I love my guys, and one of them kind of holds my heart in his big old rocker hand. But I’m dealing. I’ve been able to keep it my little secret for years now.
I’m not, however, dealing with this bug that I seem to have caught. It scares the hell out of me. I hate doctors, but I’m suddenly more worried about finding out what is wrong with me than what the doctor might do to me.

When I get my test results back my life will never be the same again…


***Because of language and adult situations not suitable for readers under 17***

The Rocker That Holds Me was a fast-paced, emotional story.

The story begins with a devastating look at Emma's life as a child. Her mother is a drug-crazed, abusive disaster, and Emma spends much of her time hiding. A group of older neighbor boys: Nik, Jesse, Alex, and Drake, take care of Emma, helping her hide, caring for her.

Fast forward sixteen year, and those same boys are members of a world-famous band, and Emma is now their caretaker. It's a life that makes her happy, being with her boys. Emma loves the guys, but one unknowingly holds her heart. And Emma has a biiiiig secret....

With so much going on, and being only ninety-nine pages, The Rocker That Holds Me is a fast-paced story. Emma's very, very sick and very, very in love. Does the rocker that holds her also love her? Good question, and that's essentially what held me to the story. I did like it, and I cared what happened. The story essentially revolves around whatever is wrong with Emma, but I would have loved to have had more about the other characters, as well. The bandmates seemed like fun, interesting guys. I wanted to know them, too. But still, I liked the story, and that ending had me smiling like a loon.


Favorite Quote:

  Soft warm lips brushed across my forehead and his strong arms wrapped around me pulling me closer against his chest. "You don't know how happy you just made me." He mumbled.
  But I was already half asleep, safe in the arms of the man who owned me body and soul.

 

Purchase The Rocker That Holds Me at: 

 

{WICKED WINTER SATURDAY} SURRENDER YOUR LOVE by J.C. REED

Baby, it's cold outside! Time to snuggle up with a mug of hot chocolate (or a glass of wine!) and fall into a steamy, sexy book.

 

Wicked Winter Saturdays is a weekly post we started to challenge ourselves to read more steamy books and have a lot of fun. Feel free to join in. (let us know so we can add a link to your post).

The Autumn Review
Sim-Sational Books
Paranormal and Urban Fantasy Reviews
Insightful Minds Reviews
My Secret Romance
Globug and Hootie Need a Book


**The books featured on WICKED WINTER SATURDAYS are for adults. If you are under 18 years of age, or do not like smexy books, please stop here. **

 

 

Genre: Adult Contemporary Romance

Publisher: Self-published

Publication Date: 3/15/13
Format: eARC
Source: Received from author for review.

Meeting Jett was like lightning. Dangerous. Better left untouched. And better forgotten. But lightning always strikes twice.

Brooke Stewart, a realtor in New York, doesn’t do relationships. When she’s sent to a remote estate to finalize a real estate deal, she discovers her new boss is no other than the guy she left naked in bed.

Sexy, dangerously handsome, and arrogant Jett Mayfield attracts trouble, and women, like a lightning rod. But the night he meets Brooke he gets more than he bargained for. The green-eyed millionaire playboy isn’t used to taking no for an answer, and he isn’t about to start now.

When he proposes two months of no strings sex, Brooke is intrigued and accepts his proposal. Little does she know Jett’s determined to claim the one woman he can’t have, pulling her deeper into his dangerous world.

A man who doesn't take 'no' for an answer.
A woman afraid to surrender to love.
Two lives that are about to cross...and secrets laid bare.

Surrender Your Love will leaving you begging for mercy...

I was so excited to read Surrender Your Love from the moment I saw it. One look at that cover and then the promising synopsis, I was hooked. So when the author sent me an ARC, I immediately dropped the other books I was reading and jumped in headfirst. And wow, was I in for a treat.

Surrender Your Love was such a great book! The story gets off to a fun start, with Brooke and Jett meeting under strange circumstances, and then they keep "meeting" in awkward situations. Brooke is trying so hard to maintain her cool, and Jett just seems to push all her buttons. When they begin to work together, Jett and Brooke are pushed to their limits, and somethin's gotta give. Good times, yes? It really was.

Brooke was a fairly standard romance heroine. She's smart, ambitious, and is absolutely not looking for a new relationship, particularly not with a man like Jett. She has some lingering issues from her past. And while those play a part in who she is today, and her inability to commit to a long-term relationship, they don't take over the story. But what's great about her, is the narration, through her voice, is refreshing. She was honest to and about herself without being whiny or negative. AND,  Brooke is not melodramatic. Her internal voice is as fun as her dialogue. She was a cool chick.

Now, at first glance, Jett might seem like the typical domineering hero. He is a man who has very specific ideas in mind for Brooke, and he's not afraid to tell her what he wants. BUT, Jett is a genuinely funny, and very naughty man. It was so nice to have a take-control guy who is also kind and respectful to his lady. Jett was confident, but he made his cockiness fun (no pun intended!). Every time Brooke mentioned his dark, messy hair, deep green eyes, and crooked smile, my heart started racing right along with hers. Unff. Jett was sooooo sexy!

I assumed that Surrender Your Love would be a steamy story. I mean, look at that cover! There is a significant portion of Jett's derriere on display and I, for one, could ogle him for an nice chunk of time. The story, though, isn't full on sex, sex, sex. In fact, there is a nice, slow burn build-up to some very steamy moments. The story definitely moves into the "Hot Zone", but not so much that it will scare those who like their love scenes a little more on the tame side away.

So, as I was reading Surrender Your Love, I thought it was a fun and charming story of two people who just might be falling in love. It was sweet and steamy and romantic. But I just had this feeling that something was big was looming ahead. I couldn't put my finger on it, but I was waiting for the other shoe to drop.

And.

Then.

It.

Did.

Something big happens, guys. And I did not see it coming! I pride myself on picking up little clues and guessing the plot twists way before they are revealed.  I had an idea something was going to happen because, HELLO!, I read the synopsis. But man, this twist was good and Ohh...did it hurt. The ending bumped this really good story that I intended to give four solid stars up to an "OMG! That was awesome!" five stars. The best way I can explain it was the feeling I got at the end of Fallen Too Far. It made me furious, puzzled, hurt, and most importantly, left me desperate for book two, Conquer Your Love.


If your looking for a charming, sexy story that will leave you begging for more, check out Surrender Your Love.

 

Favorite Quote:

  "Sleep well, Miss Stewart. I'll make sure to make this stay worth remembering." He smiled and my heart dropped into my panties. A big neon light flashed before my eyes:
  BIG MISTAKE. BIG MISTAKE!  ~eARC, 21%


    My pulse picked up speed, and a rush of excitement washed over me. I had never stared at a man like this. Then again I had never met such a fine specimen. Did I want to pull off his pants and see whether the real deal was as hot as the one conjured in my imagination?
  Hell, yeah.
  Would I do it?
  Hell, no. Or at least I hoped not.  ~eARC, 26%


  I smiled at his cockiness. Boy was he confident. One day I'd recover my own feistiness and verbally punch a hole in that unhealthy confidence of his...just not this minute because right now I couldn't think straight.  ~eARC, 27%

 

Purchase Surrender Your Love at: 

Amazon  |  Barnes & Noble

 

You can find links to two Surrender Your Love giveaways at my Release Celebration Post.
 

 

About the author:
Jessica C. Reed is a contemporary fiction author, but her greatest achievement are her two children. She spent half of her life in the beautiful mountains of Wyoming and would like to go back one day. When she’s not typing away on her keyboard, forgetting the world around her, you can find her talking on the phone or watching way too much TV.

Connect with JC at:
Blog | Facebook | Twitter




 

{WICKED WINTER SATURDAYS} PARADISE HOPS by LIZ CROWE

Baby, it's cold outside! Time to snuggle up with a mug of hot chocolate (or a glass of wine!) and fall into a steamy, sexy book.

Wicked Winter Saturdays is a weekly post we started to challenge ourselves to read more steamy books and have a lot of fun. Feel free to join in. (let us know so we can add a link to your post).

The Autumn Review
Sim-Sational Books
Paranormal and Urban Fantasy Reviews
Insightful Minds Reviews
Taryn @ My Secret Romance
Globug and Hootie Need a Book


**The books featured on WICKED WINTER SATURDAYS are for adults. If you are under 18 years of age, or do not like smexy books, please stop here. **


Series: Stand alone
Genre: Adult Contemporary Romance
Publisher: Tri Destiny Publishing
Publication Date: 10/15/12
Format: ebook
Source: Received from publisher for review.

A brutal attack left Lori Brockton convinced she was damaged goods. By the time she emerges from hiding two years later, ready to run her family's famous brewery, she's determined to be independent--never rely on anyone ever again. Nearly a year of working in every corner of Brockton Brewing Company, from warehouse to pub, front office to kitchen, teaches her all she needs to know about the business. Then, she comes face-to-face with masculine perfection in a suit and her world is rocked in more ways than one. Garret Hunter is the new Brockton business manager who takes one look at the beautiful, sad young woman and his entire existence coalesces around winning her heart.

But standing between Garrett and what he believes is his true love, is a six-feet six-inch blond-haired bad boy brewer.

Eli Buchannan is a craft beer rock star, recently hired by Brockton to drag the company into the 21st century. He brings innovation and attitude plus a prima donna ladies’ man reputation. But he's sworn off anything resembling commitment, personal or professional, after getting burned at his last job on both fronts.

Garret Hunter is “The Perfect Man” -- handsome, successful, stable, eager to settle down. Eli Buchannan... is not. Compelling, smoking hot, creative and elusive, he represents everything Lori Brockton should avoid. But just as she makes a difficult choice, a drastic life-changing shift occurs, and nothing is ever the same again.

Fair warning: I'm going to be all over the place with this review. In fact, I've been sitting on this review for weeks, and keep looking over it to be sure that I wasn't being mean or unfair.  In some ways Paradise Hops really worked for me, and in other ways I'm feeling less than enthused. Let me break this down into three categories: Characters, Story, and Steam.

Characters
It's never a good thing, in my experience, when the main character is the least favorite. Lori is a young woman struggling to work through a very brutal experience. She is an Everywoman, sort of nondescript. I couldn't even tell you what she looked like, except maybe she had brown hair? I actually like that. Lori was mostly okay, until it came to dealing with the two new men in her life, Eli and Garrett. Garrett is the man who's going to save the family brewery. He's precise, kind, intelligent, and not spontaneous in the least. I dare say life with Garrett could be a tad bit boring, yet safe, which is definitely something Lori is looking for. Then you have Eli. Eli is the god in the world of beer brewing. He's cocky, mysterious, and dangerously sexy. Garrett's opposite. Lori loves Garrett, and she wants Eli. What's a girl to do, huh? Apparently Lori is out to have her cake (or cock, as it were) and eat it, too. Me? I didn't really care which guy she ended up with. Wait! Actually I did. I gave Garrett the slight advantage the moment Eli refused to wear a condom, and when he told her to basically speak now or forever hold her vaginal peace, because once he gets started with the boning, there's no stopping Good Old Eli. So that's where I stand with the characters of Paradise Hops.

**Sorry #1: I admit, I've been hard on poor Lori in this review. I'm sure that it would be difficult to decide between two gorgeous, sexy men. I just get frustrated with the back-and-forth.**

**Sorry #2: I don't mean to get ranty. A guy telling a girl that he can't stop is a personal peeve of mine and a complete turnoff. This may not bother other readers, but it really grinds my gears. **


Story
Hello. My name is Andrea, and I like beer. No, I love beer. In fact, I'm drinking a Sam Adams Alpine Spring right now and it is delish. I've literally had two sips so far, so don't think I'm drinking and reviewing, guys. So anyway, the fact Paradise Hops is set in a brewery is what initially drew me to the story. And I absolutely adored the cover. I actually enjoyed the basic premise of the story, but it took me a while to get there. The whole beginning felt disjointed. You have a prologue that ends with a big decision, then at chapter one, the story goes back in time. And that's fine, but it felt like taking a jump with no padding to cushion the landing. Lori meets Garrett, they are attracted to one another, then I felt like the story jumped ahead to them dating, and getting kind of serious. Then Eli comes in, and Lori is also attracted to him, of course. Then she and Eli are flirting hot and heavy, yet she loves Garrett, he wants to commit, but she can't commit because she has feelings for Eli, too. Are you following? I bet you are because I am seeing this happen in a lot of books lately. I'm actually okay with all of the back and forth, for the most part, but I'm not feeling the connection between Lori and either of the guys. At all.

Lori is eventually confronted with the choice: Eli or Garrett. BUT, and I have to give the girl props, she never makes a real decision, at least from what I can tell. The girl is working on having both cakes (cocks), guys. So anyway, big things happen. HUGE. And Lori is left to deal with the fallout, with the help of one of the two guys. I was shocked by the turn of events. And I actually really liked the ending, even if I never loved the characters. It was super emotional and wrapped the story up nicely.

Steam
The steam in Paradise Hops was pretty darn good. And it was plentiful, so, yay! The author did a great job of turning up the heat, and I got a little overheated a time or two. The only downfall was the instance with Eli that I mentioned above. Other than that, I really liked the steamy.


Okay, so overall, I liked Paradise Hops even though I didn't like everything about it. But I will say that at the heart of it, is a complicated love story. A nd like life itself, relationships like this are messy. I was compelled the entire time to keep reading, to find out who Lori would choose. Would they be happy? I wanted to know, so that says something about the story. The aspects that bothered me may attract other readers, so take that for what it's worth. Bottoms up.


Favorite Quote:

  She cupped his bearded jaw, grinning when he caught her finger in his teeth. His eyes blazed with intensity. He kept them trained on hers, held her gaze as he eased her knees apart slowly, then dropped his lips to her skin.  ~50%


Purchase Paradise Hops at:
Amazon  |  Barnes & Noble

{WICKED WINTER SATURDAYS} REVIEW AND GIVEAWAY ~ TAKE WHAT YOU WANT by JEANETTE GREY

Baby, it's cold outside! Time to snuggle up with a mug of hot chocolate (or a glass of wine!) and fall into a steamy, sexy book.

Wicked Winter Saturdays is a weekly post we started to challenge ourselves to read more steamy books and have a lot of fun. Feel free to join in. (let us know so we can add a link to your post).

The Autumn Review
Sim-Sational Books
Hackaroo's Review
Paranormal and Urban Fantasy Reviews
Insightful Minds Reviews
Taryn @ My Secret Romance

**The books featured on WICKED WINTER SATURDAYS are for adults. If you are under 18 years of age, or do not like smexy books, please stop here. **

 

 

 

 

Series: Stand alone

Genre: New Adult Erotic Romance

Publisher: Samhain Publishing

Publication Date: 3/12/13

Format: eARC

Pages: 141

Source: Received from author for review.

She needs an escape…and he’s exactly what she had in mind.

College senior Ellen Price spends every spare minute studying to get into medical school. Until spring break yawns before her, as empty as her wallet.

With no money to hit the beach, she fills her empty to-do list with a plan: for just one week, she will become the kind of take-no-prisoners woman she secretly wishes to be, starting with the hot guy at the bar. It's a no-risk situation: at the end of break, he’ll head back to his campus, and she’ll go back to hers. No muss, no fuss.

At first, Josh Markley isn’t sure what to think when the quiet, intense beauty from his pre-med classes approaches him for a night of casual sex. Even more mystifying, she doesn’t seem to return his recognition. But if she wants to play “strangers in a bar”, he’s game.

Their passionate night is a welcome respite from life’s stress, but afterward, Josh realizes he wants more—from himself, from life, from Ellen. Except she still thinks he’s a one-off she’ll never see again. Confessing the truth now—before she figures it out on her own—could shatter the fragile beginnings of just what the doctor ordered. A forever love.

Warning: Contains mistaken identities, a sometimes-glasses-wearing hottie, deep questions about figuring out what you want from life, and a red-hot college romance.

The story of two college students who decide to use Spring Break, a week and a day, to step out of their quiet lives, Take What You Want is a story that turned up the heat and stole my heart.

Guys, I don't even know where to begin with this book! The story totally took me by surprise, getting off to a wicked hot start. I usually prefer to know the characters a little bit before I know them, if you catch my drift. But Grey really made this work. Take What You Want begins with Ellen, who can't afford to go on Spring Break vacation with her friends, picking up Josh in a bar, expecting a one night stand. Josh, realizing that Ellen honestly doesn't know him, doesn't tell her that he goes to school with her, and takes her up on the offer. The two make a surprisingly erotic and emotional connection, and the one night stand becomes a Spring Break fling. Despite her intention to only let go for the break, Ellen finds herself wanting more with Josh. Josh, who's wanted Ellen's attention since Freshman year, doesn't want to let her go. Each realize they have a chance at a forever type of love, but both need to figure out how to tell the truth about who they really are without pushing the other away.

I adored Ellen and Josh, and I love that Take What You Want is told from both points of view.  Both are pre-med students, living a life of responsibility before fun. Ellen is a character with whom a lot of readers can identify. She is quiet, used to blending in among the crowd. She uses Spring Break, and being alone, to step out of her comfort zone. To finally take what she wants. I loved to see her gain more resolve throughout the story and to not sit and wait, but to ask for what she wants of Josh. It was very inspiring, really. And Josh... I adored him. Josh is a lot like Ellen, quiet and studious, but there is a fire in him that stole my heart. The way he sensed Ellen's hesitations and vulnerabilities, and the way he cared for her, made me swoon. I loved Josh's strength, and his resolve to not let Ellen slip away from him.

As for the steam. Let me just say, Jeanette Grey knows how to catch a reader's attention. As I said before, the story begins with a one night stand, which doesn't seem especially romantic. But, the way Grey wrote the scene, exposing exactly why Josh and Ellen want this, and how each is feeling in the moment, it felt anything but cheap or sleazy. It was very erotic and surprisingly emotional. And that's the very best thing I have to say about all of the steamy scenes in Take What You Want, they are both erotic and emotional. Very, very hot, but also beautiful and thoughtful.

Take What You Want was a pleasant surprise for me. Based on the synopsis and a guest post by Grey, I had very high hopes. All my expectations were exceeded. I loved this book. It is the first of Jeanette Grey's I've read, but it will not be the last. This is a story that I intend to re-read again and again and I am jealous of those of you about to read it for the first time.


Favorite Quote:

  But this time, he didn't get dressed. Instead, he sat down beside her, gazing at her with all the admiration he'd held for three long years. It didn't matter which Ellen was looking at him. They were both beautiful. Both amazing and smart, and if anything, the duality between her studiousness and her sensuality only made her all the more attractive to him.  ~ eARC, 21%

 
  He kissed her long and deep, then held her gaze with his, never looking away.
  There beneath the stars, he fell into her, trying to tell her with his body that he knew her. To tell her who he was. That he was hers. Not just for a week and a day. But for as long as she would have him.  ~eARC, 42%
 

Preorder Take What You Want at:
Amazon  |  Barnes & Noble  |  Samhain

 

GIVEAWAY

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

About the author:

Jeanette Grey started out with degrees in physics and painting, which she dutifully applied to stunted careers in teaching, technical support, and advertising. When none of that panned out, she started writing. Her stories include futuristic romances and erotic contemporaries, and almost all of them include hints of either science or art.

When she isn't writing, Jeanette enjoys making pottery, playing board games, and spending time with her husband and her pet frog. She lives, loves, and writes in upstate New York.

Connect with Jeanette at:
Website  |  Twitter  |   FaceBook

{WICKED WINTER SATURDAY} THE MIGHTY STORM (THE STORM #1) by SAMANTHA TOWLE

 

Baby, it's cold outside! Time to snuggle up with a mug of hot chocolate (or a glass of wine!) and fall into a steamy, sexy book.

Wicked Winter Saturdays is a weekly post we started to challenge ourselves to read more steamy books and have a lot of fun. Feel free to join in. (let us know so we can add a link to your post).

The Autumn Review
Sim-Sational Books
Hackaroo's Review
Paranormal and Urban Fantasy Reviews
Insightful Minds Reviews
Taryn @ My Secret Romance

**The books featured on FRISKY FALL SATURDAYS are for adults. If you are under 18 years of age, or do not like smexy books, please stop here. **



Series: The Storm #1
Genre: Adult Contemporary Romance
Publisher: Self-published
Publication Date: 8/24/12
Format: ebook
Pages: 442
Source: Bought


It's been twelve years since Tru Bennett last saw Jake Wethers, her former best friend and boy she once loved.

Jake Wethers, sexy, tattooed and deliciously bad lead singer, and brains behind The Mighty Storm, one of biggest bands in the world, left Tru with a broken heart when he moved from England to America with his family when they were both fourteen.

Sent to interview Jake for her music column by the magazine she works for, they are both unprepared for the sparks that fly the instant they reconnect. Only, there’s a complication to their instant feelings for one another – Will, Tru’s boyfriend of two years.

Then Jake makes Tru a job offer she can't refuse - travelling the world with him and his band. But taking the job means leaving Will behind, and being on the road with the band means spending an inordinate amount of time with Jake.

Is Tru strong enough to resist the delectable bad boy who once held her heart so completely, or will she willingly risk it all for one night with the worlds most notorious womanizer?

 

 

**This is a chat review with Autumn from Autumn Review**

 

 

Why did you want to read TMS?

 

Autumn: I wanted to read TMS because I heard good things about it and I like Rock Star stories.

Plus, the cover is pretty hot.

Andrea: Same here. That cover is freaking hot, mouthwatering. Plus it had fantastic word-of-mouth going for it.

What was your favorite part of the story? Do you have a least favorite?

Andrea:  My favorite part of the story was Jake. He was up-front with his feelings, so sweet and gorgeous. I'm also a big sucker for friends-to-lovers stories, as you already know.

My least favorite part was that the book was too long. There were too many trivial details that drug it down. TMS could have easily been 100 pages shorter.

Autumn:  I agree. Jake made the whole book worth reading. It's hard for me to pin point a specific part in the book that was a favorte, but basically any scene with Jake.

My least favorite part was the length. I was ready for the book to end sooner than it did.

It started to feel like shit was just added in to make it longer.

Andrea:  For sure. And it's weird, because now that you've mentioned it, I don't have any scene that stands out to me either. I just remember wanting Tru to STFU.

Autumn:Urgh. Exactly. Whiny. Indecisive, insecure.

Andrea: So whiny. I mean, shit or get off the pot, woman. You love Jake. You don't love what's his name...just do something other than marvel at the luxury that Jake lives in.

Let's talk about characters. How did you feel about Tru? And Jake?

Autumn: Well, as you can tell, Tru drove me NUTS! She is the perfect example of what NOT to make your characters like. She was insecure, couldn't make a fucking decision to save her life, and she was a bit whiny to me.

Now Jake, I loved him. I think I would have preferred the whole book from his POV.Jake is hot, sexy, troubled, and he's a rock star. That's all I needed to know.Oh and he has a big dong.

Andrea: lol A very big dong. A man-sized manicotti.

Okay, yeah. I think we've made our feelings about Tru clear. But for fuck's sake. Everything you say you want is handed to you on a silver gd platter, and you want to wring your hands about it??
As for Jake. I actually feel sorry for him, because it's obvious he loves Tru, but I can't figure out why! Maybe he loves a challenge, I dunno. I'll tell you what I do know, Jake was damn sexy.

Autumn: He sure was. Maybe Tru is good in bed? Plus, I think he grabbed on to her because she represented the only good thing from his childhood. Not saying he didn't love her, because he obviously does, but....

Andrea: Yep. I think you just nailed it. It's the childhood connection. They were best friends. You know, maybe we're being harsh, but honestly, she was annoying and I'm sure he loves her, but... just, whatever.

Autumn:  I know. You know I don't like to be mean and I did enjoy the book overall, but she just bugged me.

What did you think about the sex?

Autumn: The S.E.X was pretty spectacular. I mean, I picture a python sized Jake in my mind. Scary to some, but I'd gladly take that on.

Andrea: Jake was hung, for sure. You know, it was really good. I don't remember feeling super turned on, but I liked it. You know what would be awesome? A book about a rockstar with an average sized peen.

Autumn: YES! LOL I was thinking about that the other day. Why aren't any of these guys average sized? Average sized peens are enjoyable too. Are we getting side tracked? When we start on penis talk, we get lost.

Andrea: Yes. I was thinking about this, and the only rockstar book I remember that had a guy with an average peen circumfrence-wise was Trey Mills. And yet, his is unusually long. I once had a friend who said her bf's peen was like Squidward's nose, long and droopy.

Autumn: Hmmm....interesting. And yes, Trey may not have girth, but apparently long.


Book two, Wethering the Storm is in Jake's point of view. Will you read it?

Andrea: I would love to read a book from Jake's pov, but at this point I will say no. And that hurts. But, based on book one, which was waayyy too long and drawn out just for the sake of length, no. I will reconsider if someone who felt the same way about TMS tells me that it's better.

Autumn:  I'm with you. There is a small bit that appeals to me. It's probably just because I wouldn't mind getting into Jake's head more in certain scenes, but I probably won't. Not anytime soon anyway.

I'm still up in the air on how I even want to rate this one.

Andrea: I'm waffling between a 2 and 3. The writing was just, it wasn't for me. There were words used out of context, the drama was too much.

I know I sound like a bitch. I had big expectations for this book. It has an insane amount of 5-stars, and I just don't get it.

I'll give it a 2.

Autumn: I'm leaning towards 3 ONLY because I liked Jake.

Andrea: If there's any reason to bump up the rating, it would be him.
 

Sum up The Mighty Storm in 5-10 words.

Autumn: Ok, frustrating. Long. Sad. tiring. Jake.

Andrea: Good answer.

Long. Angst. Frustrating. Sexy Jake. Too damn long.

Autumn: LOL Glad it's over. I hate saying that about books and in a way, I'm glad we stuck it out, but I was happy to be done.

Andrea: Me too. I'm glad it was only $0.99, but upset that we spent 5-6 days on it.

 

 

Favorite Quote:

 

  Then as if reading my mind, he stops moving inside me.

  Holding my face with his hand, fingers buried deep in my hair, he stares down at me in the darkness.

  "It's always been you, Tru. Always."  ~37%

 

 

Purchase The Mighty Storm at:

Amazon  |  Barnes & Noble 

 

{WICKED WINTER SATURDAY} ROCK THE HEART and ROCK THE BAND (BLACK FALCON #1, 1.5) by MICHELLE A. VALENTINE

 

Baby, it's cold outside! Time to snuggle up with a mug of hot chocolate (or a glass of wine!) and fall into a steamy, sexy book.
 

Wicked Winter Saturdays is a weekly post we started to challenge ourselves to read more steamy books and have a lot of fun. Feel free to join in. (let us know so we can add a link to your post).

The Autumn Review
Sim-Sational Books
Hackaroo's Review
Paranormal and Urban Fantasy Reviews
Insightful Minds Review
Taryn @ My Secret Romance


**The books featured on WICKED WINTER SATURDAYS are for adults. If you are under 18 years of age, or do not like smexy books, please stop here. **

 

 

Series: Black Falcon #1

Genre: Adult Contemporary Romance

Publisher: Michelle A. Valentine Books

Publication Date: 11/15/12

Source: Bought

 

 For the last four years, good girl Lane has regretted breaking up with Noel Falcon. She thought she was sensible when she told him his dreams of being a rock star would get him nowhere, but now that he's a rock god and her career is stagnant, she realizes just how wrong she was. When Noel hires the marketing company where Lane is an intern, she’s forced to see him again. If she wants to land her dream job as executive within the company, she has to win him over and secure his account. Too bad Noel is still pissed at her for breaking his heart.

When Lane’s company flies her to a Black Falcon concert to gain Noel’s attention, emotions run high the moment she sees him and realizes she’s far from over him. But Noel’s countless trysts with groupies and his cocky attitude make Lane believe he isn’t the same guy she once loved—now he seems to only want her body. Then after Lane discloses she needs him to procure a job, Noel proves he’s a changed man by forcing her to go on the road with him in order to get it.

After Lane reluctantly takes Noel up on his offer, she becomes willing to do whatever it takes to keep him satisfied, even if it means succumbing to his seductive ways. Lane soon finds deception is a dangerous game and she’s not the only one playing.

 

 

**This is a chat review with Autumn at Autumn Review**

 

 

Why did you want to read Rock the Heart?

Andrea: I think I first saw it when you sent me a tweet that said "Take a look at this book. We must read it!" It had a sexy cover, a rockstar, an old relationship, and (I was hoping) sex.

Autumn: YES! I think I saw a tweet about it and when I saw Rock and the cover, I knew it would be one we would like. Then I read an excerpt and was definitely excited about it.

Andrea: Yes. That was a good f*cking call on that one. I owe you a beer.

Autumn: Damn right you do.

Let's talk about characters. How did you feel about Noel? And Lanie?

Autumn: I adore Noel. I like that he's aggressive and sexy.But, I think what I liked the most about him was that despite his fame, he was still the same with Lanie.I loved their relationship. It was honest, sincere, and heartfelt.

I really like Lanie too. It was refreshing to see a heroine with some balls.  She wasn't going to let Noel jerk her around. She expected honesty and I was so happy that she wasn't going to put up with his crap.

Andrea: I agree. I was a little worried about Noel. A lot of the books have the guy being a huge jerk, and he did make a bad first impression, but his heart was still broken. He was sincere. Once Lanie was back in his life that was it.

I liked Lanie, too. She knew how to stand up for herself, and never let Noel take total control over her.

Autumn:  Word.

What was your favorite part of the story? Do you have a least favorite?

Andrea: Maybe when Lanie starts to come around and realize that Noel still loves her. I really enjoyed the entire story. Rock the Heart was pretty damn perfect. The exact type of book we always love.

As for least favorite...I don't really have a least favorite. But, the big secret? That hurt to read. I was pacing, pulling my hair out.

Autumn: I agree. I loved the book as a whole. The secret was the hardest part in the book.

I LOVED the supporting characters. I'm super excited about Riff's book. And the brothers too

Andrea: Haha. That was my next question.

 

Who was your favorite secondary character?

Andrea: So your answer is, "see above". lol

Riff was probably my favorite, too. He came off as an ass, but it's clear he's got something eating at him.

Autumn: Exactly. I really think there is some depth to his character. And I feel that I need to know just what his bedroom skills are.Apparently, he's pretty good.

Andrea: Clearly. He's the real bad boy of Black Falcon.

What did you think about the sex?

Autumn:  I was turned on by the sex for sure. It isn't the most graphic sex or even the hottest sex I've read, but because of their connection, it was pretty great.

Andrea: Exactly. I loved the scenes between Noel and Laney. I was pretty steamed up. Sometimes, when it's that "real" and you can feel that connection to the characters, it doesn't have to be graphic. I've started finding that, lately, I'm loving sex scenes that aren't quite as raw.

But ask me at another point in my cycle, and I'll give you a different answer. lol

Autumn: LOL yes, that does make a difference for me too.

Andrea: That's gotta be frustrating for men. I'm an emotional chameleon.

Does that make sense? I've only had one beer.

Autumn: lightweight.

Sum up Rock the Heart in 5-10 words.

Autumn: Hot. Sexy. Perfect. A favorite. Happy.

As in, it made me happy.

Andrea: You are so right. This book was exactly what I love.

Okay, for me Rock the Heart was: Sweet, Sexy, Perfect, Love, Forever

 

Favorite Quotes:

  "This next song goes out to the girl who shredded my heart without hesitation back in high school. It's called Ball Busting Bitch, and Lanie, this one's for you."  ~4%


  Noel pulls my face toward him. "Don't," he whispers,"don't be ashamed. It's incredibly sexy when you let yourself go like that. I never knew you had that in you.:
  "People can change. I have grown up a little. I'm not that same silly naive girl you knew back in high school."
  He grins. "Well, I liked her, too, you know. But this version of you is downright f*ckable."  ~41%

 
  An ache fills me. I need this man. I need him in my heart and inside my body. No matter the tension or the job. I want to be his.
  "I'm yours," I say against his lips.  ~56%

** DO NOT READ THIS SYNOPSIS IF YOU HAVEN'T READ ROCK THE HEART**

Series: Black Falcon #1.5

Genre: Adult Contemporary Romance

Publisher: Michelle A. Valentine Books

Publication Date: 1/18/13

Source: Bought

After Noel Falcon professed his love to the one girl who truly holds his heart in the palm of her hand, he decides to try his damndest to keep Lane Vance in his life forever this time. There’s no way he’ll let her slip through his fingers again without a fight.

The instant they are together Noel begins to plot a way to ask his headstrong lady-love to be his wife, but every attempt to pop the question is foiled by a string of mishaps that prevents him from the perfect moment to get the job done before he goes back on tour with Black Falcon.

Distance is a bigger challenge than Noel expects, and the one-eyed beast of jealous raises its ugly head when Lane takes on a job working on an ad campaign for Embrace the Darkness. With Striker—a man that’s made it clear in the past he’s very interested in more then her business sense—lurking around her constantly, Noel wants to claim Lane now, more than ever.


ROCK THE BAND is a 27,000 word novella from the Black Falcon Series--Following book one, ROCK THE HEART.

 

Rock the Band picks up the same night Rock the Heart ends. Did you like that?

Andrea:  I loved it. With the way Rock the Heart ended, I wanted to know what happened next. And we get that.

Autumn: I loved it too. I'm so glad I had that one on hand to read right away. I felt like there was one big event that I wanted to see and we got that with this.

 

Did that make sense?

I'm not even drinking.

Andrea: Yes! That makes complete sense. I loved that Michelle picked the story up immediately.
You should be drinking. Wait, you have a hangover. Nevermind.


What was your favorite part of the story? without spoilers

Autumn: Yeah, that's hard to answer without spoilers. I think I can say that I really loved when he took her to his home. Then of course the ending.

Andrea: Yes. I loved that too. My favorite moment was at the dock. Major tears.

Autumn: YES! I got teary.


How happy were you with the ending?

Autumn: OMG...I couldn't have been happier.

I loved it.

I was sad that we don't have Rock the Bed to pick up.

Andrea: Same here. I don't get my hopes up for happy, or even satisfying endings anymore. This. Was. Perfect. I love Michelle Valentine for writing this novella. Yes, I want Rock the Bed so bad. I think it releases in March.

Autumn: Me too.

Who is your favorite member of Black Falcon, besides Noel?

Autumn: Riff at this point, but I like the brothers too. They're all such likable characters.

Andrea: I think Riff, but those twins are adorable. Especially the guillable one. Tyke? I can't wait to learn more about all these guys. I hope Michelle writes books about the twins.

Autumn: I hope so too.

How excited are you for Rock the Bed?

Autumn:  I can't wait to get my hands on Rock the Bed. And hey, I'm not too proud to beg.

Andrea: Same here. I will grovel at Valentine's feet for that book.

I'm super excited it's about Riff. He's a dirty, dirty boy, so you know that it will be HAWT.
And surprinsingly emotional, too, I'm sure.

Autumn: Totally up our alley. Can't wait!

Sum up Rock the Heart in 5-10 words.

Andrea: Sexy. Sweet. Emotional. Satisfying. Perfect.

Autumn: Perfect. Sweet. Complete. Love. Future.



Favorite Quotes:
 
  Never in my life had I loved another person as much as Lanie Vance--I knew that now more than ever. I had to figure out a way to make her mine forever.  ~8%


  For moments like this with her, I was willing to be anything and everything that she needed, even if that included learning to live apart from her from time to time. He happiness meant everything to me, and I would try my damnedest to always keep a smile on her beautiful face. ~29% 


Purchase the Black Falcon books at:
Amazon  |  Barnes & Noble