Salt & Blood by Tesla Storm

October 21, 2022 By Leave a Comment


Salt & Blood by Tesla Storm
Darker Desires, book 2
Publisher: Evernight Publishing
Genre: Contemporary, Erotic Romance, Mystery/Suspense/Thriller, Paranormal
Rating: 3 stars
Reviewed by Nymphaea

After slaying a wendigo, banishing a sub-prince of Hell, and falling in love with Adrian Graves despite her addiction to demons, Vivianna Sky is on to her next adventure: locating and destroying the monstrous entity that plagues Munkai Island. The manananggal is attacking expectant mothers in the anachronistic village, resulting in the death of at least one child and the threat of many more lives.

Vivianna initially answers the call for the bounty on the manananggal’s head, but once she lands on the island, everything changes. She feels a calling to kill the creature wreaking so much havoc, but the closer she gets to the case, the further Adrian seems to stray. Vivianna swears his eyes are drawn to Ilena Martin, the federal agent assigned to the island. And the distance between Adrian and Vivianna only widens when the Sky family curse rears its ugly head.

To kill the beast, Vivianna must give up everything—even and especially her own self-control. But will her loss of control destroy more than just the monster?

Dark, dangerous and full of desire.

Tesla Storm is a new to me author and I’ll be looking for the first book in this series. It’s dark, hot and has a lot of twists to it. The story moved along at a good clip, and I felt like I was there with Vivianna.

This is book 2 in the series and might be best read after reading book 1. There’s a lot of information to digest right away, but honestly the author does a good job of getting the reader up to speed.

I liked that the author used a different type of monster for this book. The manananggal isn’t as well-known as other paranormal monsters and it was nice to see representation in this book. It was also nice to get invested in the characters of Adrian and Vivianna. I rooted for them and liked the real-world issues that come up between them. Sometimes life is messy.

If you’re looking for something hot, dark and different, then this might be the book for you.

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

Alceu by Jade Marshall

October 20, 2022 By Leave a Comment


Alceu by Jade Marshall
Cammareri Family Book 1
Publisher: Evernight Publishing
Genre: Contemporary, Erotic Romance
Rating: 3 stars
Reviewed by Nymphaea

Guilia Rossi
Every little girl fantasizes about her wedding day, but being forced to marry a man that gives me the creeps? It soon becomes less of a dream and more of a nightmare. Getting out of this marriage and away from Salvador Berlusconi is the only thing I can think about. But when I finally get the chance, will I pick the devil I know or the monster I do not?

Alceu Cammareri
Salvador Berlusconi has been a thorn in my side for far too long. Taking Giulia Rossi from him will finally start the war I need to take him out. Permanently. What I never considered is the woman I married. She twists my insides and forces me to feel things I never wanted to feel. But I am not a knight in shining armor, I am the devil dripping in blood. Will she ever be able to accept me for who I am, or will I send her running?

A marriage of convenience that just might be the perfect pairing.

I’m not wild about mafia romance, but I decided to check this one out because I’ve read this author before. I enjoyed the book. It moves along at a good clip and the characters are interesting. I do like the pairing of Giulia and Alceu. They work together well, and it was nice to see her take her life into her own hands.

Giulia is a tough girl and she’s used to doing what she’s told. I liked how she decided instead of marrying a gross man, she picks one more suitable. The pairing worked for me and made me want to root for them.

All in all, this is a quick, sexy read and one good for an afternoon when you want something to heat the screen. Give it a shot. I’m glad I did.

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

Having Faith by Lila Fox

October 17, 2022 By Leave a Comment


Having Faith by Lila Fox
Maclean Mafia Men Book 2
Publisher: Evernight Publishing
Genre: Contemporary, Erotic Romance, Mystery/Suspense/Thriller
Rating: 3 Stars
Reviewed Nymphaea

Faith does everything she can to get her family away from the monster who happens to be her father. Trapped at home, she finally runs and hides, waiting and watching for the perfect time to get her sisters and her mother to safety.

Graham takes one look at the grubby and tired young woman and decides she is his. When he finds out who she was and realizes the extent of her problem, it makes him more determined to protect her.

The problem only seems to worsen, and he is forced to pull his family into something that can destroy them. This drama doesn’t impact just their families. Instead, a third family run by a sadist enters the fray. He wants the girl and doesn’t care who gets hurt on the way.

Can Graham convince Faith to trust him—with her heart and her life?

Way too much drama and danger, but it’s so hot.

I’ve never read anything by Lila Fox and this was a good introduction to her work. The story moved along and the writing was fine. I read this in the course of an afternoon and it was good. It was a nice way to pass the afternoon and there was heat, so that helped.

Faith is a bit insecure, which made her more human. She wants to protect her family from her father, a dangerous mafia man. I can respect what she wants to do because it’s a tall order. She meets Graham and he vows to give her that protection. I liked how he stepped right in and took over, giving her a break and being the strong, steady man she needed. The chemistry was good.

If you’re looking for a mafia romance that’s not so heavy on violence, then this might be a good introduction to the genre. Give it a try!

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

Staked by Desire by Rose Wulf

October 14, 2022 By Leave a Comment


Staked by Desire by Rose Wulf
Night Shadows Series, Book 6
Publisher: Evernight Publishing
Genre: Erotic Romance, Contemporary, Paranormal, Mystery/Suspense/Thriller
Rating: 3 stars
Reviewed by Nymphaea

As the adoptive daughter of the Vampire Princess, Kendall Wheeler was raised in the sheltered world of dangerous, elite vampires. After the terrifying battle in Sacramento, Kendall realized she could no longer sit idly by while the rest of her family was in danger. So she ran off to reconvene with the shockingly capable Slayer who had been called in to eliminate a pair of serial-killer vampire brothers, eager to help him complete his task.

Adrian Colt preferred to work alone, but something about Kendall’s impassioned plea compelled him to let her join him on the hunt for the surviving Wilson brother. He realized quickly this decision was more dangerous than it should have been—Kendall Wheeler was everything he’d dreamed of in a partner. Except that a life partner is the last thing he’s ever wanted.

The hunt takes them from California to Colorado, where their target finally stops running. But Colorado has its own dangers, and without their usual allies, survival is not guaranteed.

Plot twists, heat and heart.

I’ve not read the other books in this series, but I didn’t feel lost because of it. Rose Wulf creates a vivid world and drew me right in, without making me feel lost because I didn’t know the other characters. Kendall and Adrian were intense and interesting enough that I want to read more, though.

I liked this premise. She’s adopted by vampires and doesn’t want them killed, so she enlists the help of a slayer. It’s an interesting pairing and fun, really. They have a great chemistry and I liked that they kept each other in check. Kendall just wants to protect her adoptive family. Nice twist.

Honestly, there are a lot of twists in this story that I didn’t see coming and it’s great. If you’re looking for something hot and different, then this might be the one for you.

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

By Any Other Name by Lee Ann Sontheimer Murphy

September 21, 2022 By Leave a Comment


By Any Other Name by Lee Ann Sontheimer Murphy
Publisher: Evernight Publishing
Genre: Action/Adventure, Mystery/Suspense/Thriller, Contemporary, Erotic Romance
Rating: 3 stars
Reviewed by Nymphaea

DEA agent Riley Scanlon and teacher Olivia Thackery were deep in love when they renovated an old house in Arkansas and planned for their April wedding.

When a fire swept through Riley’s mobile home, Olivia refuses tp accept his death but as the months pass, her head knows the truth but her heart still holds hope. A dream sends her to Memphis, Tennessee, on a wild goose chase search for her lost love although it’s a long shot.

In a chance meeting, she finds him on Beale Street only to realize that the danger is greater than she could have ever imagined and their lives are about to change, irrevocably and forever.

Gripping, emotional and lovely.

I love the work of Lee Ann Sontheimer Murphy. She writes well and I’m always drawn into the stories. This one was no different. I couldn’t get enough of Riley and Olivia’s tale. It pulled at my heartstrings and made me want more.

This is an emotional book. Olivia is about to marry the man of her dreams, but his trailer burns to the ground, and she believes he’s dead. I can’t imagine being in her shoes and I don’t want to say I enjoyed, but rather, I appreciated the journey she went on with her emotions. The author showed these well and I was immersed in the story. I felt for Olivia.

This one had serious feels throughout. If you’re looking for a story that’s got a few twists and turns, moves fast and will leave you happy, then this is the one you’re looking for. Check it out.

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

So Wrong by January Rowe

August 22, 2022 By Leave a Comment


So Wrong by January Rowe
Publisher: Evernight Publishing
Genre: Contemporary, Erotic Romance
Rating: 3 stars
Reviewed by Nymphaea

Design assistant Kendra is thrilled when she snags a side gig creating concert outfits for Ford, a mysterious singer. Though intrigued by his sweet nature, she knows she must resist. A relationship just isn’t part of her five year plan. She has important goals, and zero time for a romance with a flighty, flakey performer.

He is so wrong. Why does he feel so right?

Laid back, semi-slob Ford can’t figure out why he’s spending every waking moment thinking about Kendra. The designer is not his type: too driven, too ambitious. Besides, fashion is only for snooty, superficial people.

She is so wrong. Why does she feel so right?

Opposites certainly attract and the result can be so hot.

This is my first time reading a January Rowe book, but it won’t be the last. I liked the way the characters came together and their chemistry. It was a quick enough read and I enjoyed myself.

Ford is a slob, but he’s got to gain a sense of fashion and fast. I liked his ability to be oblivious, yet observant about what he wanted to see. He’s funny and sweet. I loved him. Kendra is fun, too, but she’s hyper involved in fashion. She’s detail oriented and determined. I liked that they were so different because it made the story interesting. I liked the hiccups between them. It was relatable and real.

There are a few times when the story did drag a bit and focused a lot on both the recording industry and the fashion one. Those looking for correct details will be thrilled, but at times it was a bit slow going.

Still, the heat is there and the characters fun. If you’re looking for a story that’s different and still a rock star romance, then this might be the one for you.

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

Lexi’s Christmas Cowboy by Ashlynn Monroe

August 18, 2022 By Leave a Comment


Lexi’s Christmas Cowboy by Ashlynn Monroe
Publisher: Evernight Publishing
Genre: Contemporary, Erotic Romance, Holiday
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewed by Nymphaea

Lexi Smithe has always kept her feet planted firmly on the ground. As an administrator for Reining for Respect, she’s devastated when they lose the funding for the program that provides equestrian sports to foster kids. She knows all too well how this program changes lives. And the worst part is the Justice family didn’t even give them an explanation. What she never imagined, was a news story would bring her face-to-face with the most eligible bachelor in Texas before she’s even had her morning coffee.

Hudson Justice doesn’t pay a lot of attention to the charities supported by his family. He’s too busy running Lucky Star, his family’s 520,000 acre ranch. His brothers both have a hand in company affairs, but when he discovers someone in his inner circle has been funneling funds away from the charitable trust, he’s left wondering who’s the thief. When he tries to do a little PR repair, he meets Lexi Smithe. She’s a spitfire he’d sure as hell like to take for a ride, in more ways than one. But he put his big ol’ size 14 in his mouth. He wants to win her over, but she’s not the kind of girl that money can impress.

A cowboy, money, a trust, the girl he wants and the need to find trust. You’ll find it all in this story.

I love a good Ashlynn Monroe story and this one was great. The moment I started it, I breezed right through it. The writing kept me in my seat, and I stayed up far past my bedtime to finish. I mean, with a cowboy like Hudson, how do you not want to keep reading?

I liked Lexi and Hudson because they’re real. I mean it. They felt real and reading this was like being a part of their world. Lexi knows what she wants and she’s not afraid to get it. She’s also not afraid to say no. She’s a real problem (in a good way) for Hudson and the chemistry was fantastic. Hudson, for all his money and status, is still a cowboy and has the ability to goof up. I liked his determination not only to figure out where the money is going and to find the culprit, but to win over Lexi.

If you’re looking for a wonderful holiday romance, then this might be the one for you. It hit all the right notes for me.

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

The Partner Dilemma by Jade Marshall

July 15, 2022 By Leave a Comment


The Partner Dilemma by Jade Marshall
Publisher: Evernight Publishing
Genre: Erotic Romance, Contemporary, Multiple Partners, Sci-Fi/Fantasy
Rating: 3 stars
Reviewed by Nymphaea

The world has changed since it was ravaged by disease many years ago. Fertile females have become a commodity.

Skye has been preparing for her Partner for the last two years. But nothing could have prepared her for the three men that want everything from her.

Deklan, Blaine, and Kamden have been through it all together, even war. Now they want a Partner that can make their house a home. Skye is the missing piece in their lives. And now that they have her, they will do whatever it takes to keep her.

But nothing is as simple as it seems, and sometimes the past comes back to haunt you.

A steamy story with a scary premise!

I love a good futuristic story and this one delivered. This is a world where women, for the most part, are infertile. Why? Because of a vaccine. It’s scary. The author made that point quite well and left me a little spooked, I won’t lie.

Skye is one of the few fertile women and one paired with her three men–Deklan, Blaine, and Kamden. I liked how they took care of her and how they fell into a routine so easily. What sort of bugged me was how she’s young and knew exactly what to do with them. For a virgin, she’s advanced. I wish there had been more clumsiness or a little more fear on her part–fear of the unknown. Still, the time they share together is hot and makes for an entertaining read.

If you’re looking for something short and hot, then this might be the one for you. Beware, it’s a little spooky, but it’s all good, too.

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

Hothouse Bloom by Hannah Morse

June 28, 2022 By 1 Comment


Hothouse Bloom by Hannah Morse
Ramsbury Estate Book 2
Publisher: Evernight Publishing
Genre: Historical. Erotic Romance, LGBTQ
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewed by Nymphaea

Noah Tenbey’s body and soul were torn asunder during a cavalry charge at the battle of Waterloo. A year later he’s still suffering. Fearful, his family calls in Dr. James Byrd from London, who not only helps Noah with his injuries, he also brings Noah’s heart back to life. But what life can James, the bastard son of an Earl, and Noah have together when all of society doesn’t see them as they truly are? Will they find a way to keep their love blooming, or will it wither on the vine?

Their love is forbidden, but that doesn’t mean they can’t have it.

I love a hot historical m/m story and this one fit the bill. The writing is good, and the story moves along at a good pace. I felt for each of the characters and wanted to see them get their happy ending. It was satisfying.

James is a physician who wants to heal. He also wants Noah. He’s tender, sweet and ready to be there for Noah. He knows they can’t have the traditional happy ending others have, but is that what they need? Noah has been injured in battle and he’s not only physically wounded, but emotionally as well. He’s hurting and it’s James’s tenderness that just might be the tonic he needs.

I got emotionally wrapped up in this story and I’m glad I read it. I’ll be looking for more from this author. Recommended.

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

Their Love Deal by Helen Walton

June 23, 2022 By Leave a Comment


Their Love Deal by Helen Walton
Billionaires’ Reluctant Brides Book 1
Publisher: Evernight Publishing
Genre: Contemporary, Erotic Romance
Rating: 3 stars
Reviewed by Nymphaea

What started as a way to keep her mom from nagging her about marriage ended in more…

Recent college graduate Tiffany Herringer never expected to fall in love with her two boyfriends. After three years of loving Dieter Brant and Dex Munroe, she can’t let go of either of them. Everyone seems content with their arrangement, until the graduation party when Tiff discovers they know each other—and they’re friends—friends who talk about her and the things she likes.

When they suggest merging their relationships, Tiff doesn’t think she can be with two men at once. Sure, she dates them both, but together? If she agrees, she’ll never have to choose between Dieter and Dex, but then she’ll never get married. Not that she wants to get married … or does she?

Does she have to choose between the men she loves?

I love a good hot story and this one sizzles. Tiffany has been with and dated Dieter and Dex, both. She likes them both. Heck, she doesn’t want to choose between them. So, what’s a girl to do when she’s confronted with the idea she might not have to?

I loved this story because it burned and sizzled, but it also built slowly. It gave the reader, me, time to get to know the characters and feel their connection. I loved the heat to it, too. It’s a great story. There’s tenderness between the characters and a genuine connection. No lopsided love here!

I liked this trope–friends to lovers–and am glad I read this story. It was so worth the read. Check it out!

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