Death of Darkness by Dianne Duvall

August 26, 2019 By 9 Comments


Death of Darkness by Dianne Duvall
Publisher: Self-Published
Genre: Contemporary, Paranormal, Action/Adventure
Length: Full length (497 pages)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: Best Book
Reviewed by Xeranthemum

Voted BoM by LASR Readers 2013 copy

Seth has led the Immortal Guardians for thousands of years. With them fighting by his side, he has protected humans from psychotic vampires, defeated corrupt mercenary armies, defended military bases under attack, and more. But the latest enemy to rise against the Immortal Guardians has proven to be a formidable one, wielding almost as much power as Seth. His goal is simple. He wants to watch the world burn. And he will use every means at his disposal to accomplish it. Seth and his Immortal Guardians have succeeded thus far in staving off Armageddon despite heartbreaking losses. But they have never before faced such danger. Seth has only one wish: to protect his Immortal Guardians family and ensure the continuation of humanity by defeating his foe. But then Leah walks into his life and sparks a new desire.

Leah Somerson has suffered losses of her own. It has taken her a long time to rebuild her life and find some semblance of peace. Then one night a tall, dark, powerful immortal with what appears to be the weight of the world on his shoulders stumbles into her shop, and everything changes. Peace and contentment are no longer enough. Now she wants more. She wants to find happiness. She wants to erase the darkness in Seth’s eyes and replace it with love and laughter. She knows he’s different in ways that make most fear him. Even some of his immortal brethren keep a careful distance. But Leah will not. Nor will she shy away when danger strikes.

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Okay, comparison time. Quite few years ago, I followed a series where there was the same type of guy as Seth, sort of. You know, the one that fixed things, that everyone turned to and counted upon and never had a chance to get his own HEA, until he did. That book had a whopping of a page count too. Here’s the difference, and why Ms. Duvall’s book about Seth was perfect, eons ahead of the other in satisfaction, excitement and romance – Seth remains Seth, even though I now got to see inside HIS head. The other series, when looking out of the hero’s eyes, made the guy seem, less. He was tremendously powerful but he came across as unmanned. The level of strength from the character I’d come to expect just wasn’t there. I was devastated because I had such high hopes. Then I found out that Ms. Duvall was writing Seth’s story and I was so worried history was going to repeat itself. I am happy to say, my worries were unfounded. I hugged the book because I couldn’t hug the author in person. She managed to do EVERYTHING the other author had not – she got it right. She kept Seth as the man, hero and leader I’d come to admire, adore and yearned for him finding happiness too. Not only is Death of Darkness out-of-the-stratosphere awesome, but it hit all my happy buttons with romance, excitement and a relationship that melted my heart.

One fact I want to make sure readers understand is that this is not a standalone read. Not even a little bit. There is a direct tie-in to the previous book Awaken the Darkness which thrilled me no end. There is the villain whose arc carries through several books and fans will understand the level of evil he represents because of what he’s done and how it affects Seth. Does the villain get his comeuppance? You bet. However, it’s not as I expected. In fact, readers are going to be aghast when they get to those chapters. That’s when the action, drama, suspense and shock comes to a head. That is where I warn readers to be in a place where they won’t be interrupted as they read because you won’t want ANY interruptions. I can’t imagine fans as invested in the characters as I am would even want to blink. That’s how spellbinding, gripping, jaw-dropping and stupefying I found it to be. Make no mistake, Death of Darkness is a triumph for Ms. Duvall.

I usually talk about the characters, especially the hero and heroine. Fans know about Seth so his being sexy, larger-than-life and amazing is a given. Leah is the unknown. What kind of woman would be worthy of a man like Seth? Again, Ms. Duvall chose well. The heroine is quick-witted, loves to tease and is a delight with children. She’s strong and a perfect match for the hero. She’s got one tiny little problem. She’s human. Fans know why that’s a bit problematic. Yet, their love is so strong for each other, even when Seth gives her the inside scoop on what it’s going to be like as the years go by, Leah’s commitment to Seth is air-tight. Her love is unshakable. Actually, Leah does get shaken up a lot in this book, and I’m snickering a bit when I say that because it’s sort of a double-entendre but not in the way you could imagine. Well, okay, that might be a part of it but there’s a lot more I’m not telling you. Why spoil the fun?

The most poignant, precious and sniffle-worthy moment happens with Bastien. The cutest is Adira and the most amazing, shocking and knock-me-down-with-a-feather topic has something to do with Ami. In fact, it even shocks Seth! Do you know how hard it is to shock Seth? Seriously, this novel is a must-read just for that alone! The most suspicious has something to do with Cliff, and the most mind-boggling, eye-popping and still-scratching-my-head-over-it scene, has something to do with the Others.

Death of Darkness also has the most brilliant and dazzling plus – not one but a couple of whole chapters dedicated to the Happy in happy ever after. It’s the most complete, satisfying, loving, and joyous, festive and exuberant celebration I’ve ever had the pleasure of reading. On top of that was an epilogue that yanked the figurative rug out from under my feet. Fans are going to goggle.

Do you know there is so much MORE I could write about? Seriously, this story is chockfull of great dialogue, a solid supporting cast and more twists and turns than a pretzel. Through it all, the growing romance between Seth and Leah is sizzling, seductive and extremely satisfying. Ms. Duvall has written an epic romantic masterpiece that is proudly going on my keeper shelf. Thank you, Dianne Duvall, for giving us the perfect HEA for Seth. I am content.

Filed Under: Reviews, Romance Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

Daughter Of The Dark Moon by Holly Bargo

July 3, 2019 By Leave a Comment


Daughter Of The Dark Moon by Holly Bargo
Publisher: Hen House Publishing
Genre: Sci-Fi/Fantasy
Length: Full length (282 pages)
Heat level: Spicy
Rating: Best Book
Review ed by Chamomile

Worlds fear the powerful, ruthless, and cold-hearted Unseelie king. Deposed and his kingdom conquered, Uberon answers the call of a young human woman’s soul and claims her as his mate. Corinne’s clever mind captivates him, her compassion intrigues him, her beauty enchants him, and her body stokes his libido like nothing else ever did or could.
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Discovering that myths and legends really are based in fact, Corinne soon learns her fate as the Unseelie king’s chosen mate and the consequences of fae immortality as she adapts to a new world and her relationship with Uberon develops. She revels in Uberon’s passion and shoulders the burden of power and responsibility beyond anything she ever dreamed.

A powerful story of Seelie and Unseelie, magic and control, love and loss. I’ve loved each of these books, and this one continues the magical story of a strange and dangerous land where Fae live and humans are drawn to.

As each book focuses on different characters, this series can be read in any order, but to get all the backstory of the characters and their world, then reading them in order might help some, but either way you are in for a treat!

I enjoyed Uberon and Corinne’s story, more so since they had an interesting dynamic with Uberon being a fallen immortal king, and Corinne who has her own strengths and powers, her beauty and character made stronger in her humanity.

Holly Bargo has a gift with words and a vivid imagination for magical lands and characters to match! While the romance is strong in these, it’s beautifully woven into a story of quests for love, burning passion, painful loss, and alluring intimacy. The setting is easy to picture, and the characters aren’t soon forgotten.

Filed Under: Reviews, Romance, Science Fiction/Fantasy Tagged With: , , , , ,

The Last Kingdom by Bernard Cornwell

June 18, 2019 By Leave a Comment


The Last Kingdom by Bernard Cornwell
The Saxon Stories #1
Publisher: Harper
Genre: Action/Adventure, Historical
Length: Full length (333 pages)
Rating: Best Book
Reviewed by Poinsettia

The first installment of Bernard Cornwell’s New York Times bestselling series chronicling the epic saga of the making of England, “like Game of Thrones, but real” (The Observer, London)—the basis for The Last Kingdom, the hit Netflix series.

In the middle years of the ninth century, the fierce Danes stormed onto British soil, hungry for spoils and conquest. Kingdom after kingdom fell to the ruthless invaders until but one realm remained. And suddenly the fate of all England—and the course of history—depended upon one man, one king.

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Which side will Uhtred choose?

The story of Uhtred’s life is captivating. Up until the time he was ten, he lived a relatively peaceful life in Bebbanburg. When the Danes invaded, everything changed. Ragnar, Uhtred’s captor, treats him as a son, and Uhtred finds he rather likes living as a Dane. However, as he grows older, he isn’t so sure where his loyalty should lie. Should he fight with the Saxons he was born to, or the Danes who raised him? Uhtred has friends among the Saxons and Danes, and as the struggle for control of England intensifies, he feels the pull to join either side. He is truly a man caught in the middle. As I read, I couldn’t wait to see what he would do next and where his decisions would lead him. I must mention that this book contains some intense battle scenes and graphic violence. Readers sensitive to this material are forewarned.

Uhtred is a fascinating character. He is strong, smart, and brave, but he is also very flawed. He is a bit too proud, and selfish at times. He also has the tendency to act before fully thinking things through. His pursuit of Bebbanburg has caused him to make hasty decisions which end up putting that very goal further from his reach. However, I can’t help but like him. He is also very charming, and he is loyal to those he loves. All of this serves to make Uhtred one of the most wonderfully rounded characters I’ve ever come across.

I love the way Mr. Cornwell has chosen to tell this tale. Uhtred narrates his story speaking as an older man looking back on his life. Even though I know Uhtred survives his adventures, I want to take that journey with him. As I read, I shared his joy, laughter, sorrow, and regret as he reflects on the people he’s known and the decisions he’s made over the course of his life.

I also thoroughly enjoyed the historic detail woven throughout the story, the map, and the historical note at the end of the book. Many of the characters were real people who lived during this time. Of course, Mr. Cornwell has taken some liberties for the sake of the story, but the tale he’s created feels very real. It is easy to imagine that Uhtred really existed.

I absolutely loved reading The Last Kingdom. I was completely immersed in Uhtred’s story and found it extremely difficult to put the book down. I can’t wait to continue reading about his adventures in the next installment of the series!

Filed Under: Mainstream Fiction, Other, Reviews Tagged With: , , , , ,

Whom Shall I kiss…An Earl, A Marquess, or A Duke? by Laura A. Barnes

March 6, 2019 By Leave a Comment


Whom Shall I kiss…An Earl, A Marquess, or A Duke? by Laura A. Barnes
(Tricking the Scoundrels Book 1)
Publisher: Self
Genre: Historical
Length: Full length (203 pages)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: Best Book
Review by: Mistflower

What started as a research project soon became a scandal…

She wanted to prove a theory. He wanted to play a game. Can their schemes lead them towards a kiss of love?

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Noah Wildeburg started this season as any other by flirting with the sweet new debutantes. When he rescues a lady off the dance floor, he is unprepared for the emotions she stirs in his soul. As he pursues her, he realizes he must compete for her hand. As he charms her with tokens of affections and stolen kisses, he discovers she plays her own game. Will Noah win Sidney’s love or is she just another scandal to add to his list?

Laura A. Barnes is one of my favorite authors. I have yet to read a book by her that I didn’t love. However, this one is by far my favorite book by this author. I am even going to go as far as to say that this is the best book that I’ve read in a very long time. I’ve read many historical romance books and this one wins the originality award. Bravo for creating a refreshing story in the historical genre. My curiosity was piqued with the synopsis and I was captivated with the first sentence, “Are you positive you want to follow through with your plan, Sidney?” There’s nothing like diving into the story especially when it’s flawlessly written. I couldn’t put the book down.

Sidney, the heroine, was independent, intelligent and brave. She was also a fun character because she always jumped in with her feet and thought with her head later. Those are the most fun characters to read about. Sometimes I know what the outcome is going to be but not with Sidney. I was on the edge of my seat reading Sidney’s plan as she lured three gentlemen to kiss her.

Sidney picked three gentlemen for her study that were all book boyfriend worthy in their individual ways. Since Whom Shall I kiss…An Earl, A Marquess, or A Duke? is book one is the series, Tricking the Scoundrels, I am hoping they will each get their own story.

Traditionally in my reviews I write about the hero and how he affected me as a reader. How I thought he connected with the heroine. What qualities or characteristics did I like about him. In this review I rather not say too much because half the fun of this story is to read about which gentlemen Sidney ends up with in the end for her happily ever after. Please let me point out that there is no annoying love triangle in this plot. There isn’t any “woe is me, who do I love?”. This is where the refreshing originality steps in. I can say that who she ends up with is book glow worthy. I Love him and the chemistry between them was wonderfully spicy.

I want to stress how awesome this book was. The cast of characters were so well developed that I was left with the feeling that I’ve gained a new group of friends. I am hooked to read the next book in the series because of how Whom Shall I kiss….An Earl, A Marquess, or a Duke? ended. It wasn’t a cliff hanger but we know that the next book is going to be Sophia’s story. Sophia is Sidney’s best friend who tried to keep Sidney out of trouble. Sophia and Sidney are the kind of best friends that they are more like sisters. I can’t wait for it’s release in the summer of 2019!

This definitely is a book that I won’t forget about anytime soon and filled my dreams at night. I’d buy this book and put it on my keepers shelf for others to borrow and read! Summer 2019 please hurry up and get here!!!

Filed Under: Reviews, Romance Tagged With: , , , , ,

You Witch by Amanda M Lee

November 9, 2018 By Leave a Comment


You Witch: A Wicked Witches of the Midwest Mystery – Books 7-9 by Amanda M Lee
Publisher: Winchester Shaw Publications
Genre: Contemporary, Paranormal, Suspense/Mystery
Length: Full length (996 pages)
Heat Level: Sensual
Rating: Best Book
Reviewed by Orchid

The Winchester witches are at it again and this time they’re going to find trouble. Of course, they always find trouble. So … situation normal?
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Take a walk on the wild side as Bay Winchester learns a little bit about life, death, magic, monsters and love.
Enjoy three wacky adventures with your favorite Michigan witches in this compilation, which includes Life’s a Witch, Charms & Witchdemeanors and The Trouble With Witches.

The Winchester Witches are three generations of funny ladies who are continuously involved in solving mysteries both magical and criminal. The matriarch of the family is Aunt Tilly, a wacky lady of 82 years who always seems to get her own way, sometimes by casting spells on her grand nieces, but mostly by wearing the most outrageous clothes for her age. The girls are never sure when they wake up whether their clothes will fit, a mustache has grown overnight or they might even smell of bacon.

The middle generation are kitchen witches which mean they are fantastic cooks, and these three ladies each have one daughter. The daughters are earth witches, and Bay – the narrator of the books – can also see ghosts. I have to say even the ghosts are funny in these stories.

I got very irritated when I had to put down this book to go and do something else. The stories are well written, captivating and full of intrigue. The romance comes from the three youngest witches and their boyfriends. I felt really sorry for the men as they had to put up with the arguments and revenge spell casting of the three girls and Aunt Tilly.

There are three books inside the covers of You Witch and they follow on from one another but each one stands alone as well. Well worth the read especially if you want a good laugh along with a good read.

Filed Under: Mystery/Suspense, Reviews, Romance Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

How to Forget a Duke by Vivienne Lorret

May 22, 2018 By 4 Comments


How to Forget a Duke by Vivienne Lorret
Book one in The Misadventures in Matchmaking series
Publisher: Avon Books
Genre: Historical
Length: Full length (384 pages)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: Best Book
Review by: Mistflower

The Bourne Matrimonial Agency has one rule: Never fall in love with the client. A simple thing to remember . . . unless you’re a matchmaker with amnesia.

The Duke of Rydstrom requires a wife. Preferably one with a large fortune and a complete lack of curiosity. The last thing he needs is a meddling matchmaker determined to dig up his dark family secrets.

All Jacinda wants is to find a bride for a duke. How hard could that be? He’s handsome, enigmatic . . . and hiding something. She’s sure of it. Determined to discover what it is, she travels to his crumbling cliffside estate. Yet, by the time she washes up on his beach, she can no longer remember who she is or why the duke is so familiar to her. All she knows is that his kisses are unforgettable—and she intends to use every skill she can to discover what’s in his heart . . .
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When Miss Bourne can’t remember what brought her to his ancestral home, Rydstrom intends to keep it that way. Yet as the days pass, his true challenge will be safeguarding his secret while resisting this woman who—confound it all—may well be his perfect match.

Wow! Just Wow! Give me a minute to clear my romance-foggy brain and rejoin reality. Never mind, I really don’t want to. Ugh, I just want to continue living in Rydstrom Hall with Crispin, the hero, Jacinda, the heroine, and Rydstrom Hall’s staff. Sigh…Why does life have to get in the way of my fantasy world? I read this book in 24 hours. I stopped to eat, potty and a few hours of shut eye. I ignored my husband, teenage sons and my beloved dog. It was worth every minute.

This was my first Vivienne Lorret novel. The cover says “USA Today Bestselling Author”. I believe it. It was amazing. The writing style was top notch. I felt like I was watching a movie. At times I felt like I was physically in the room with the characters. I was so absorbed in the story that I couldn’t tell you what was going on around me.

The plot flowed effortlessly even with all the intricate narrative threads. The cast of characters were thoroughly developed and tangled together in a way that was spellbinding.

I’m so excited that this was book one in the Misadventures in Matchmaking series. I am very excited to know that the next Misadventures in Matchmaking novel will be released early 2019.

The heroine, Jacinda, was hilarious. I lost count how many times she made me laugh. Her relationship with Crispin made for an entertaining and heartwarming love story. The synopsis caught my interest and if it catches yours then please don’t hesitate to read this book. I can see this story being made into a movie. There was so much depth to it. My favorite characteristic of “How to Forget a Duke” was the conversations between Jacinda and Crispin. They were truly the perfect match. The buildup of chemistry between them was epic. I consider this a spicy book with a respectable presence. By the time they exchanged their first kiss I was more than ready for it to happen and I wasn’t disappointed.

I’d like to duly note that not everything is this romance book was peaches and cream. Crispin’s Aunt Hortense added some conflict to the romance and there is a character that I can’t mention that pulled at my heart strings. Crispin and Jacinda had their own inner battles to contend with. All of which only enhanced my interest to continue flipping pages to seek the culmination. Other honorable character mentions are Jacinda’s sisters and her uncle. I imagine we’ll read about them in the upcoming books since they make up the Bourne Matrimonial Agency which is the basis of this series.

The best part is, there was an epilogue! Oh, how I love when a well written story ends with one. It usually makes for a spectacular book glow. In this case it created the desire to remain in the story rather than deal with reality of switching the wash, emptying the dish washer, and sweeping the floor. Ugh…Crispin take me away!

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What a Difference a Duke Makes by Lenora Bell

February 16, 2018 By 4 Comments


What a Difference a Duke Makes by Lenora Bell
Publisher: Avon Books
Genre: Historical
Length: Full length (384 pages)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: Best Book
Reviewed by Mistflower

Wanted: Governess for duke’s unruly children
Edgar Rochester, Duke of Banksford, is one of the wealthiest, most powerful men in England, but when it comes to raising twins alone, he knows he needs help. The only problem is the children have chased away half the governesses in London. Until the clever, bold, and far-too-enticing Miss Mari Perkins arrives.

Lost: One heart to an arrogant duke
Mari knows how to wrap even the most rebellious children around her finger. But their demanding, wickedly handsome father? He won’t be quite so easy to control. And there’s something else she can’t seem to command. Her heart. The foolish thing beats so wildly every time the duke is near.

Found: A forbidden passion neither can deny
As his employee, Mari is strictly off-limits. But what if she’s the one breaking all his rules? In the game of governess versus duke, how can Edgar maintain his defenses when the only thing he wants to do is let the tempting beauty win . . .?

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I absolutely love when a book makes me laugh. I can recall three separate times that I cracked up. I had to re-read it a few times until I got the giggles out. I just love connecting with a book like that.

As a retired preschool teacher I really related to the heroine, “Mari with an i—it rhymes with starry.” I respected how she developed a trusting relationship with the hero’s children, Michel and Adele. For nine year old twins they were a handful. Mari demonstrated developmentally appropriate, hands-on, child process oriented art and engaged open-ended interaction. It’s no wonder the children responded to her the way they did. She treated them with respect yet held them accountable for their actions. She set boundaries and expectations with appropriate consequences and was consistent and gave love with positive reinforcement. Yes, I noticed and applaud all that accurate child development detail in a romance book! If I was looking for a governess for my children then I’d consider myself lucky to have her in my employment. Mari wasn’t the only well-developed character is this story.

I had the opportunity to bond with the hero as well. Edgar Rochester, Duke of Banksford was a man in need of being rescued and it obviously had to be Mari or myself but unfortunately I can’t be transported into the plot. Life is so unfair. At least I got to live it through Mari. Edgar was intelligent, kind and just made me smile. He was a tad stubborn but what hero isn’t? It’s part of their charm. It makes the reading much more pleasurable when they realize they are being stubborn and give in.

Who doesn’t grow fond of children? Okay, not everyone, but I do. Michel and Adele were adorable. After all they went through, it was heartwarming to see them in a thriving home thanks to Mari, Edgar and his entire staff. I can’t leave out Edgar’s sister, India when mentioning well developed characters. She was hilarious. I was happy to see that she is going to have a book of her own.

Of course there were a couple of characters that made me clench my fists such as Edgar’s mother and Mrs. Trilby. Ooooh, if I could get my hands on them. I’d teach them a thing or two about being nice. However, you’ll have to read how they turned out.

The plot was brilliant and honestly, refreshing. It flowed smoothly with unexpected thread plots. There is more to this story than what the synopsis says. There’s a plot twist involving Mari that is quite captivating.

The writing style as well as the plot and cast of characters is really what made the book amazing. I thought it was a unique writing style to incorporate proverbs within Mari’s conversations. It was truly entertaining. I am compelled to share with other readers that this is the first time when I’ve finished a novel that I Googled something that was mentioned in the story. I was intrigued with the plot regarding fire brigades and how they chose which fire to put out based on which insurance that property had. I didn’t know about that history nor about the steam fire engine that was invented. If you don’t know about both subjects then I’d Google those two things prior to reading this book, but it certainly isn’t necessary. The author did an exceptional job explaining it. I was more curious if it was factual.

The icing on the cake for me was the epilogue. I LOVED it. This was my first Lenora Bell novel and it won’t be my last. I’ll be looking for India’s story, For the Duke’s Eyes Only” coming out in October 2018! Until then I definitely recommend reading What a difference a Duke Makes! It’s captivating, sexy and a heartstring tugger.

Filed Under: Reviews, Romance Tagged With: , , , , ,

Beautiful Crazy by Kasey Lane

October 6, 2017 By Leave a Comment


Beautiful Crazy by Kasey Lane
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Full length (352 pgs)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: Best Book
Reviewed by Quince

Their tension is turning up the heat—in the boardroom and the bedroom…
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Kevan Landry is trying to keep her life on track and her brother in rehab. If her fledgling marketing firm can sign the hot new band, Manix Curse, it will make a world of difference. Mason Dillon heads the most successful music PR firm in Portland. He’s desperate to breathe new life into the company by signing Manix Curse.

The stakes are high when a battle for the band—in the bedroom and the boardroom—becomes a battle of the heart. But if these two can set aside their differences, they may find they’re the right mix of sexy savvy to conquer both their worlds.

Kevan Landry and Mason Dillon are complete opposites. Kevan is full of tattoos and dressed in vintage clothes. She runs a small fledgling marketing firm, she has no money, her brother is an addict and she comes from a dysfunctional family. Mason on the other hand, is all business and money. He has no tattoo, he is dressed in business suits, he works for huge PR firm and he is loaded. His family might not be full of love and affection but it is far from dysfunctional. But Kevan and Mason have one thing that bring them together; they want to sign a contract with the same band. In order to get a band they have to spend time together on the tour. The only problem with them being together on the tour is that they are enemies who like one another a lot.

I absolutely loved this book. Everything in it is perfect; characters, plot, relationship between Kevan and Mason, everything. Although it is the first book in the series it focuses solely on the relationship between Kevan and Mason without trying to make introduction into a series. The characters are three-dimensional and it was so easy to fall in love with them. Kevan is a tough girl on the outside, but so fragile on the inside. She is a fighter and I rooted for her through the whole story. Mason is typical alpha, but while he goes for what he wants, he is also so gentle toward Kevan. The relationship between two of them is emotional from the very beginning. It is so obvious that they are head over heels in love with each other from the start. Only, it took them quite some time to realize that. The plot is also amazing; Kevan’s and Mason’s relationship is put in the context of the music world, business deals, promotions and life on the road.

If you are looking for a highly emotional and intense contemporary romance Beautiful Crazy is a perfect story. Read it; it is absolutely amazing!

Filed Under: Reviews, Romance Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Rock My Body by Lee Piper

September 27, 2017 By 4 Comments


Rock My Body by Lee Piper
A Mondez Novel 2
Publisher: Evernight Publishing
Length: Full Length (256 pgs)
Genre: Contemporary
Other: M/F
Rating: Best Book
Reviewed by Bittersweet

Voted BoM by LASR Readers 2013 copy

Twenty-two year old Riley Sears promises herself never to fall in love unless it’s with a guy who is long-term boyfriend material. She’s not crazy, her psychologist reassures her of that, but when faced with situations she cannot control, well, her anxiety skyrockets.

Enter Dominic Mondez, the hottest creature ever to grace pecs and abs. The notorious playboy propositions Riley with the best sex of her life—his words. However, after learning he never sleeps with the same woman twice, Riley’s decision becomes remarkably simple.
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No. Way. In. Hell.

Sadly, traversing the murky waters of friends without benefits is far from simple, especially since Dominic is the lead guitarist of local rock band, Mondez. He is also tempestuous, a womanizer, and—even worse—inexplicably jealous. Dominic is bad for Riley in every possible way. Bad, bad, bad.

If only her body would listen.

Rock my body (A Mendez novel) by Lee Piper is a must read. It’s as easy as that. I finished the book last night after two days of binge reading and I’m in love. First with Dominic, then with Riley and with everything that has to do with this book.

Granted, I’m not a fan of first person point of view, but Lee Piper surprised me. She has mastered the art and I was drawn into the book and into Riley’s character from page one. I immediately connected with her. Her anguish, happiness, love, lust, I could feel all of it in my own bones.

The chemistry between the characters is insane and Ms. Piper knows how to draw it out. To say I squirmed a few times is an understatement.

But there is more. Though there is obviously a strong sexual connection between the characters, we see so much more. They are characters with flaws, good things and bad, tragic stories, which made my heart ache.

This is the kind of book that once finished made me crave for more. I’ll be reading Levi’s story next (although apparently I should have done that first) and can’t wait for the rest of the series to be released.

Filed Under: Erotic Romance, Reviews Tagged With: , , , , , ,

iHunt: Killing Monsters in the Gig Economy by David A. Hill Jr.

September 21, 2017 By 5 Comments


iHunt: Killing Monsters in the Gig Economy by David A. Hill Jr.
Publisher: Self-Published
Genre: Sci-Fi/Fantasy, Contemporary, Paranormal, Horror
Length: Full Length (269 pages)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: Best Book
Reviewed by Astilbe

Voted BoM by LASR Readers 2013 copy

It’s like Uber, but for slaying monsters!

Lana is a monster hunter. She kills vampires, werewolves, demons and all the other terrifying creatures of the night. She doesn’t do it because she’s the chosen one. She doesn’t do it because it’s her duty. She does it because working one job just doesn’t cut it for a millenial in Southern California.

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Lana’s story is about making ends meet, about economic anxiety, and about what a person’s willing to do to pay the bills. It’s a equal parts horror, dark humor, slice of life, and social commentary on the gig economy.

I’ve reviewed hundreds of books for Long and Short Reviews over the last five years. This is the by far the best one I’ve ever reviewed for them.

The character development was amazing. Lana was an incredibly complex woman whose personality could never be condensed to a few short sentences. Everything I learned about her was doled out gradually between and during her various iHunt assignments, That only made me more curious to find out more about her. I especially loved how much time Mr. Hill spent exploring her many reasons for signing up to be a monster hunter. Every single one of them taught me more about her as a person while they were also pushing the plot forward in all kinds of exciting ways.

Speaking of the plot, the pacing of it was so beautifully relentless that I couldn’t tear my eyes away from the page. The blurb gave an excellent introduction to this universe, but there were many new conflicts and characters introduced later on in the storyline that were somehow even more fascinating than the original idea of freelancers being hired to kill monsters.

One of the many reasons why I gave this story the highest rating possible is how much attention it paid to real-world issues. The characters dealt with all kinds of frustrating situations when they weren’t actively fighting monsters: dealing with deeply prejudiced people, running out of money well before payday, experiencing truly terrible customer service, and so much more. Some of these scenes made me laugh, while others made me wince. All of them developed this world so thoroughly that I honestly forgot I was reading a piece of fiction. It was like listening to a friend talk about her terrible or wonderful day instead.

The romance was handled perfectly. Not only did the characters involved in it have an unbelievable amount of chemistry, they also genuinely liked each other as human beings. Their strong friendship made me eager to see if they could turn their platonic feelings into romantic ones. This part of the plot was also a refreshing break from the often intense fight scenes.

iHunt: Killing Monsters in the Gig Economy was phenomenal in every single way. If you can only spare the time to read read one more novel this year, make it this one!

Filed Under: Horror, Reviews, Science Fiction/Fantasy Tagged With: , , , , , , , ,
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