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Shayna Renee's Spicy Reads

My name is Shayna Renee and reading is my passion. I can’t wait to escape reality and dive in to a passion filled love story! I own a Nook, Kindle, iPad, and way too many paperback books to count. I never find myself without a way to read a chapter here and there. My favorite type of book is one that can pull every type of emotion out of me. The uglier the cry I get from reading, the better! It all started when a friend of mine urged me to read a little book called Fifty Shades of Grey. Have you all heard of it? Yeah, I thought so. I found myself wanting to see what else was out there, what was so fascinating about this particular genre. On my journey, I discovered authors like J.R. Ward, Shayla Black, Sylvia Day, and Sylvain Reynard and I was just hooked! After reading these fabulous books for a while, I discovered I really had no one close by to share my thoughts with. That’s when I decided to start a blog; a review blog that could help me get my thoughts out there and in turn get other people’s recommendations and opinions. I absolutely LOVE the authors and romance readers I have met through this journey, and I only hope to continue sharing my adoration of books with you!

 

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HAPPY READING!

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Currently reading

Spin
CD Reiss
Immortal Hunter (Execution Underground, #2)
Kait Ballenger
Breaking Spades (Hamden, #4)
W. Ferraro

Behind His Eyes - Truth (Reading Companion to the bestselling Consequences Series)

Behind His Eyes - Truth - Aleatha Romig Time and time again, Aleatha Romig delivers superb stories full of emotion and suspense. Behind His Eyes - Truth is just another example of how Ms. Romig is at the top of her game and shows no signs of slowing down.

Full review coming soon....

Until Trevor (Until, #2)

Until Trevor (Until, #2) - Aurora Rose Reynolds ❖ 4 1/2 Stars ❖

Aurora Rose Reynolds has done it again with Until Trevor. She has given us a gift in the form of this amazing love story between two stubborn souls. These two souls fight and claw every step of the way, but the ending is inevitable. They will fall hard, and they will fall fast. Nothing can stop two people who are meant to be together.

We first met Trevor and Liz in book 1, Until November. Trevor is Asher’s brother and Liz is November’s friend. We got a glimpse of the chemistry between these two in book 1 as well, and I couldn’t wait to learn more about their story. Liz and Trevor became real close in the past months, until one drunken night when things got real hands on, and a misstep in communication ruined what they had. Trevor stayed away from Liz because of her so-called “innocence,” and Liz stayed away from Trevor because of the fact he humiliated her and made her feel like just another one of his conquests that he was done with. Trevor could stay away from Liz in his head, but in his heart, she was his BOOM, and nothing can get in the way of that.

❝She had no idea how sweet she was; it made me want to lock her away so the fucked-up world didn’t have a chance to contaminate her.❞

Trevor is just like his brother Asher in so many ways. He is stubborn, possessive, and sexy as hell. He will stop at nothing to protect his woman, even if it’s from herself. When Trevor loves, he loves HARD! Just when you want to slap him, he turns around and does something so damn sweet it melts your heart. Being in a relationship was so new to him. Throughout the book it was as if he was reading a book called, “Relationships for Dummies,” and doing everything it says. He tries so hard, and it is incredibly endearing. Bottom line – Trevor is all about family, and if someone, anyone messes with what’s his, you better run the other way…fast.

❝Will you go out with me? YES or NO❞

Liz has been trying to move on ever since that night with Trevor. When she finds herself in a bit of a dilemma, she seeks help from the people who are closest to her. Not wanting anyone else to know she is in trouble, she is surprised when Trevor shows up asking, no DEMANDING why she didn’t come to him for help. When Trevor realizes what an ass he has been in the past, he works fast trying to claim Liz as his in every way possible. He will have her, even if he has to drag her by her hair like a freaking caveman. Liz will let him, but she will tell him what he can go do with himself. Liz may look sweet and innocent, but that girl will jack your tire off your car if you so much as look at her cross-eyed.

❝Now I know if you get in a huff, all I have to do is give you an orgasm, and you settle your ass down.❞

These two CRACK ME UP! They yell at each other, they fight, and they make passionate, intense love. It’s like this throughout the entire book and it is so entertaining. With Trevor’s personality, I think Liz is his perfect match. She can submit to him, but she can also hold her own against the brute when need be. They both can’t get away with anything, the other is right there waiting for them. It’s incredibly hot. Ms. Reynolds can definitely write an intense sex scene like nobody’s business. She had me panting a couple of times for sure. Trevor is an animal in the bedroom, so demanding and vulgar but it is so sexy on him. His potty mouth is one of his best qualities.

❝I love that I can make you lose control. That’s how I want you. That’s how you make me feel; it’s only fair that I make you feel the same.❞

Not only was this a beautiful love story, Until Trevor was chalk full of suspense. You are following along on their wonderful journey, everything seems to be perfect, then BAM, shit just got real, and you are thrust in to a dark place full of danger and struggle.

The Until Series by Aurora Rose Reynolds is a great series that will satisfy your romantic side as well as your need for an alpha male and the woman who will stand by him no matter how stubborn and possessive he is. Not only do you feel the love between the two main characters, but you feel the bond and the connection with these brothers who will make you weak in the knees. And finally, Ms. Reynolds gives us a glimpse of what to expect in the next installment, Until Lilly, and with that I will leave you with Cash’s famous last words…

❝….but I’m never going to let a female turn me into some kind of crazy, possessive, pussy-whipped guy.❞

We shall see Cash….we shall see!

Read more reviews at Shayna Renee's Spicy Reads


Interview with a Master

Interview with a Master - Jason Luke Interview with a Master by Jason Luke came to me as a recommendation from a fan. I have never heard of this author until now, and I was quite surprised on how much I truly enjoyed this book.

It's really unlike any book that I have read. It started off slow for me, but when it picked up, I was intrigued. It was interesting to me, because I don't think I have read a BDSM book that was written by a man. Even though, this is a work of fiction, it kind of puts you in the mind set of reading an autobiography of some sort. It's almost like you want the Master to be real, you want him to be telling you real events, and putting us in that frame of mind, is what keeps you sucked in.

"I've spent a lot of years learning about myself and learning about the women I have shared my life with. And it's only now - after a lot of mistakes - that I've finally worked out who I am."

This isn't your typical BDSM, fairytale HEA romance. Not at first anyway. It is just a young, inexperienced journalist trying to put her name out there with a fascinating story about a true Master in the BDSM world. She gets his stories of his past submissives, which are EXTREMELY detailed events. The Master, Jonah Noble gets down to the nitty gritty with everything he tells her. Meanwhile, he notices every move she makes, every hitch of breath, every touch of skin that shows. This goes on for a while, the back and forth of Jonah's emotions, the personal questions from the journalist. You start to notice some chemistry between the two and you are always wondering in the back of your mind, if something is going to happen between the two.

"Falling in love with your submissive is about the biggest mistake a Master can make,"

Whether people who read this agree or disagree with the BDSM elements in the book, it really doesn't matter to me. I really enjoyed getting a man's POV in this particular genre. I found it enlightening, surprising, and very sexy. The ending jolted me a bit, but if I believe the rumors around social media, I expect there to be a follow-up to Interview with a Master.

If you don't mind that there is no instant romance in this book, I highly recommend it. I look forward to reading more about the ever so sexy Jonah Noble and the woman who is trying to share his story with the world.

Read more of my reviews at Shayna Renee's Spicy Reads

Surrender My Love

Surrender My Love - Lisa Eugene ❖ 2 1/2 Stars ❖

Surrender My Love was my first read from Lisa Eugene. It's part of the Washington Memorial Hospital series, but can be read as a standalone. I thought this book had great elements with not great follow through. It was a little hard to get through at first, kinda slow-paced, but once it started picking up speed, I was fully engaged. I really enjoyed the whole murder mystery aspect of it. It was definitely suspenseful, but the chemistry (which I believe is one of the most important pieces in a romance) between the two main characters was just not there for me. Don't get me wrong Doctor Brad Markson can take my temperature any day, he was dominant, sexy, demanding, all traits that I look for in a leading man, but I didn't feel the love or the angst when him and Chloe were together.

Surrender My Love was a good story, but lacking in some areas. I can recommend this if all you are looking for is hot, steamy sex. But if you are looking for a true romance kind of deal, I'm not 100% sure you will be satisfied here.

*Copy provided by author in exchange for an honest review*

For more of my reviews, check out Shayna Renee's Spicy Reads

Archer's Voice (A Sign of Love)

Archer's Voice (A Sign of Love) - Mia Sheridan A LOVE STORY you will NEVER forget!

Archer’s Voice left me speechless! This book was in one word….PERFECTION! I can’t get over how much this story has touched my heart and soul! I have the Book Hangover to end all Book Hangovers! I have read some romance books that had me in a whirlwind of emotions; but I don’t think I have ever been so touched by a love story this deep, this real, and this profound that even after a week has gone by, I’m still thinking about it. I know reviewers don’t like to say this, but Archer’s Voice is one of the greatest love stories that I have ever read. I’ve heard stories of books that have changed a person’s life, changed the way a person see’s their life, but I’ve never experienced it myself…until now.

❝You can’t hear me… I can’t help that… But I want you to see me❞

Do you believe in fate, like two people who were meant to be together? If you read Archer’s Voice, you will have no choice, but to believe. Both of these characters, Bree and Archer, they are dealing with pains from their pasts that are so beyond anything that I can imagine. For an author who can transport your mind directly to a scene, where you feel helplessness, intense heartache, and profound sadness, it’s an incredible feat. I don’t know how the written word can be so damn intoxicating that you forget what is going on around you. It’s just magical.

Bree Prescott has run away from home, fleeing from the only thing she knows because of an event that pained her with such sadness. Hoping to get away from the memories and the horrible flashbacks, she finds herself in a small town where no one knows her and hopefully she can finally move past her grief and start to heal. Even though she is in a new place, with new people, she feels drawn to a man she bumps into on the sidewalk. Enter Archer Hale. The awkward meeting between the two did not deter Bree from seeking Archer out, learning more about him. There was just something about his eyes that made her worries go away, even if for a little while. She has to know more about this silent mystery man.

Archer Hale, oh jesus, where the hell do I start. He has been on his own ever since he was a child. The flashbacks we get of his childhood will rock you to your core. It’s horrible, unfathomable, and just plain sad. The people in town have their opinions of what happened to him, but they never really took the time to get to know him, and Archer was okay with that. He has learned at a young age, that he needs to take care of himself, and not worry about what people say or think of him. When he first bumps in to Bree he is fascinated by the embarrassment that she exudes. He is intrigued by the woman who doesn’t look at him with pity, but of pure friendliness.

❝It was as if my body was his instrument and he learned to play it so perfectly that the melody vibrated within my very soul.❞

This couple has everything going against them, and yet, they work so very hard at overcoming the obstacles that are put in their way. Archer has never really wanted anything more out of life until Bree came along. Bree never thought she could get past her demons until Archer came along. The chemistry, the bond that these two characters share, it makes you believe that true love, true adoration can get you through the toughest barriers.

Bree and Archer both had fears. Their past gave them no choice in that matter. Some people live with fears like that and it eats away at their soul. Through the love they shared, they were able to embrace their fears and triumph over their doubts. Although, it took some extreme measures, and setbacks, they made it through the storm and finally became whole.

❝I think love is a concept, and each person has an individual word for what sums it up for them. My word for love is Bree.❞

Archer’s Voice by Mia Sheridan was impeccably written, superb in every way. It will burrow in to your heart and never leave. It will touch your souls in ways you can’t even imagine. It will break your heart and slowly and carefully put it back together. For those of you who are used to the typical alpha male, who demands your heart and dominates your soul, be prepared for a whole new breed of hero. Archer Hale is an unsung hero. He will not demand your heart or your soul. He will simply ask for it, and will ask that you only take his in return and never let it go. To sum it up, Mia Sheridan is pure genius, and she deserves everything good in the world, because she gave us Archer Hale.

Read more of my reviews at Shayna Renee's Spicy Reads

Untitled (The Blackstone Affair, #4)

Untitled (The Blackstone Affair, #4) - Raine Miller Finishing up Rare and Precious Things by Raine Miller was so bittersweet for me. I've LOVED this series, these characters, this amazing journey Ms. Miller has taken us on every step of the way. I never wanted it to end! Leave it to the amazing Raine Miller to give us an ending that will satisfy every part of you...mind, body, and soul.

In the fourth installment of this amazing series, we dive back in to the world of our newlyweds, Mr. and Mrs. Blackstone. With a baby on the way, and a new home to settle down in, you can't help but take a deep breath for these two and say to yourself, all is well in the world. Right? Right? Oh come on! WRONG! The past is always there, lurking in the background, waiting to ruin everything. Ethan is still plagued with his horrible nightmares AND for his intense worry for Brynne and her past. Once again, we see their relationship, even as husband and wife, struggle through so many obstacles. If you have been following this fabulous series, you know that with Ethan and Brynne the past always keeps trying to push its way in. What makes this book and this series so great is the fact that these characters are so strong-willed, determined, and stubborn that they will not let anything break them. As long as they have each other, they are whole, and NOTHING can take that away from them.

❝You gave me everything. You made me really want to open my eyes to what was around me, for the first time in my adult life. You made me want you. You made me want...a life. You were my greatest gift of all, Ethan James Blackstone.❞

We have been witnesses to Ethan and Brynne's growing love for each other for a while. You really can't say that about too many book characters. We have been through the ups and downs right along with them. They have touched our hearts and souls with their words for one another. They are a part of our family and with Raine giving us the gift of Rare and Precious Things, we get to relive these moments where we first fell in love with not only the SEXY AS SIN Ethan Blackstone, but Brynne and the rest of the amazing characters we have met along the way. What put a big smile on my face was the small glimpses of how Ethan and Brynne met, and the other bits and pieces we get, that help us to remember their blossoming love.

❝She knew. She knew exactly what I liked and how I liked it. My perfect sexual goddess.❞

The incredibly talented Raine Miller isn't one to just give us a simple love story. NO WAY! She gives us a love story that makes our hearts soar. A love story that is always so intense, so sensual, and so emotional, that it will stick with you forever. She gives us amazing, complex, far from perfect, characters that you can't help but fall in love with. The author makes us see not only the light, but the dark, and VERY dark sides of the story.

❝I don't want you any other way than how you are. You are just what you are supposed to be."

Rare and Precious Things is not only a story about love. It's a story about hope and courage. It's not just all about the intense chemistry between the two main characters (although, it's PRETTY DAMN INTENSE). It's about believing in something or someone; it's about not letting your fear and your past demons rule you. It's about having hope when the cards are stacked against you. No matter how much baggage you carry, there will always be someone to help you put it away. To feel true happiness, true contentment, is a gift we all wish for in our lives, and following Ethan and Brynne's story will help you believe that some day you will have that for yourself, and you will know to cherish it with everything you have.

❝You are the only one. The only person ever able to really see me.❞

Truth is, I could go on and on in this review, because I LOVE this series SO MUCH! I could say that Rare and Precious Things was a TOP PICK for me because it made me a blubbering mess by the end, but that wouldn't be enough. The Blackstone Affair will take you on a very special journey. A journey where you can get lost in the complicated lives of these wonderful characters. You will dream about them, you will talk to your book friends like they are real people. You will hurt when they hurt, love when they love, and smile when they smile. Nothing will prepare you for the uber sexy, protective, dominating man that is Ethan Blackstone. He is truly one of a kind, a gentle soul with a horrible past, and he has finally found his happily ever after.

*ARC provided by the author*

Read more of my reviews at Shayna Renee's Spicy Reads

Breaking Spades (Hamden, #4)

Breaking Spades (Hamden, #4) - W. Ferraro Read more of my reviews at Shayna Renee's Spicy Reads

Two broken souls find a way to heal eachother. What an amazing journey Ms. Ferraro takes us on. I'm kicking myself for not starting this series sooner! Even though Breaking Spades is book 4 in the Hamden series, this can be read as a standalone. Be warned, if you are just like me and you started with Breaking Spades, once you are done, you will be itching to start at the beginning.

Full review to come...

Until November

Until November - Aurora Rose Reynolds For more reviews, visit Shayna Renee's Spicy Reads

"Having you wrapped around me all night, feeling you come around my fingers, now wrapped in a towel and knowing what's under that shit and not being able to do a damn thing about it is my worst fucking nightmare."

Oh Asher Mayson, you dirty, dirty, dirty, sexy man!

Until November is book one in Aurora Rose Reynold's Until Series. This is also my very first read from the very talented author. Ms Reynolds has made a very good first impression on me with this book. She had me intrigued right off the bat. November is a woman who has had a very tough life with dealing with abuse from her mother. It broke my heart that even after all she has been through, she still was trying to make peace with her past. The strength that this character showed was amazing, and I can certainly learn a lot from her.

Asher Mayson, the "not so sweet talking" dominant man knows what he wants, and he asks no questions, just takes it. In some characters this doesn't work, but with Asher, even though he was a jack-ass sometimes, I still loved him!

Until November was full of suspense, romance, and some very powerful, intense sex scenes that had me blushing. Asher is a man that needs to take control, and even though November is an independent woman who can call him out on his shit, the relationship still works for them, and their interactions were ridiculously funny and beautiful at the same time.

"You're mine. Every inch of you belongs to me. From your sweet mouth to your even sweeter pussy and when I want it, you better give it to me."

Both POVs were given to us, and it worked really well in this story. We get a very in depth history on both characters and even though they were heartbreaking, it seems like a lot of people could relate and lessons can be learned and hope can be shared.

Aurora Rose Reynolds is definitly an author to watch out for. This series is going on my must-read list and I can't wait to learn more about these great characters that she has created for us. Believe me when I say your brain will go into the Asher-fog. Don't fight it!

Socrates Inspires Cherry to Blossom

Socrates Inspires Cherry to Blossom - Red Phoenix As a HUGE fan of the Brie Series by Red Phoenix, I was extremely excited to read something new from her. I was deep in the middle of 'Red Phoenix Withdrawal,' and Socrates pulled me out, if only for a short time. If you are interested in the BDSM lifestyle, well, you definitely have to get this book ASAP! It's very instructional, and yet, there is a great story behind it.

❝ Before that day, I'd never realized the sensuous feel of opposing sensations - of fire and ice, of pleasure and pain. ❞

The book starts off in such a way, that you automatically feel like Kathryn, AKA Cherry Blossom, is talking directly to you, telling her your story. You feel her anticipation and desire, her curiosity and her willingness to try new things. Cherry Blossom was a great character, well-rounded, interesting, and very relatable. Pretty much through the entire book, my emotions mirrored Kathryn's. At times, she acted like a giddy school girl, and I found myself giggling right along with her. Excitement, trepidation, sadness, all of the emotions were there and ready for you to latch on and enjoy the ride.

As I mentioned at the beginning, Socrates Inspires Cherry to Blossom was a very good learning experience for someone who is new to the scene, or is just curious and interested in maybe learning more about the BDSM lifestyle. Even though this was only about 70 pages long, it was chock-full of juicy tidbits about the BDSM world. I found myself taking some notes of my own, and not just for writing my review.

I never doubted that Red Phoenix would disappoint at all. She always amazes me with her talent, and always gives her readers what they want and more. For those of you who would like a short, sensual, instructional read, this is definitely for you. Take the beautiful journey in to the world of Socrates. But be warned, it will be very hard to say goodbye to the 'Online Dom.'

*Copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
Reckless Weekend (Reckless Beat, #2.5) - Eden Summers The Reckless Beat boys ROCK MY WORLD! I absolutely love this Rock Star Romance series. Hilarious, sexy, and emotional, Reckless Weekend hits all the right spots. It will have you laughing out loud and holding back tears as you are immersed in this crazy world that you will definitely want to be a part of.

There back! Mason, Mitchell, Blake, Ryan, and Sean. Oh how I've missed your shenanigans!

Reckless Beat + Alcohol + Las Vegas = Maybe not such a good idea!

I hear wedding bells and everyone is in Vegas to celebrate! A night full of crazy games, very poor decisions, and debauchery all around.

Let's just say when there is a line in the book that states:

❝Number one - one person has to swallow Alligator Sperm, then have Sex on the Beach with a Cock-sucking Cowboy.❞

who wouldn't want to read more?!

Not only is Reckless Weekend ****ing hilarious, because we all know that Eden Summers has a dirty, dirty mind; it will also get to you on a deep emotional level. I'm talking loud, heavy, ugly crying! Be prepared....grab tissues, lots and lots of tissues.

The couples we all know and love are having some troubles with their relationships and life in general. It's not easy being in love with a Rock Star 24/7. They have baggage, you have baggage. It's all bound to come out at the worst times. Real life has to step in and kick your ***, that's just the way it works. These relationships will be tested, the events will break your heart, but love will get them through the toughest times, and their relationships will only get stronger.

❝I just need you to be mine. And I need to be yours.❞

What I absolutely loved about Reckless Weekend, was the fact that it didn't center around one or two people. It was about everyone. When you love all the characters as much as I do, you get excited when each one pops up and makes and entrance you'll never forget, and for this book Mason stole the show. The lead singer of Reckless Beat is a whiny, grumpy, pain in the ***, and all you want to do is kiss that gorgeous ***. This story shined a light on Mason's demons, and let me tell you the Epilogue will drive you MAD! Be prepared, to say "What the ***k just happened?" You are killing me Ms. Summers!

The Reckless Beat series is one of my favorite Rock Star series out there today. Even in a novella, Eden Summers hits it out of the park with another hilarious, emotional, and steamy story that will knock your bra and panties off! No lie! These men are HOT! Very well done Ms. Summers. Now GIVE ME MORE MASON.....pretty please!

I have to end my review with a very insightful quote from the ever so sexy and grumpy, Mason Lynch! This is a point in the story where Ryan asks Mason how he picks up women.

❝Treat 'em mean, keep 'em keen, buddy.❞ Mason shrugged. ❝And it helps that I'm ****ing awesome.❞

Oh Mason...what are we going to do with you?

*ARC provided by the author*

Read more reviews at Shayna Renee's Spicy Reads

Their Second Chance

Their Second Chance - April Angel Their Second Chance by April Angel is a great contemporary romance that will warm your heart and soul. For those of you who are struggling through a relationship or marriage, this story will be a great lesson learning experience. For those of you who are looking for your soul mate, this will be incredibly inspirational to you.

❝ A lot of people will tell you that it hurts to be without the person you love, but the truth is, that it's like living with no purpose. Without her...I can't imagine my life without her. She's my soul, ❞

I love it when you get something a little different than what you expect from an author. It's refreshing, and it shows just how talented the author is with her diversity. I am used to her paranormal erotic romances under Milly Taiden and her other contemporary erotic stories with April Angel. No matter what genre this author writes in, they are always very solid, very sexy, and very emotionally driven.

Their Second Chance deals with real life relationship issues. A couple that has been married for seven years, together for 5 years, and something in their marriage just stopped working, they just stopped communicating. What would you do? Counseling? Separation? Divorce? After a time of separation, Ariana and Nick find themselves in quite the pickle. Forced together and in close quarters with nowhere to go, they rehash what went wrong in their marriage, bringing to light what unimaginable event happened to Ariana.

At the very beginning of this book, you feel right away Ariana's torment, the gut-wrenching sadness at the possibility of losing her husband and her best friend. This kind of emotion, the emotion that you feel deep inside, is what you will carry through till the end of their story. You will care for these two and will want nothing for the best, and I think that is because you can relate to them on such a level that you thought no one would understand. The undying love and the passion Ariana and Nick had for each other was beautiful and heartbreaking at the same time.

Their Second Chance is a very fitting title for this story. It's a story of hope, a story of passion, and a story that will stick with you for a very long time.

❝ Fall, sweetheart, I'll catch you. ❞

*Copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
Dungeon Royale is yet another amazing Masters and Mercenaries story from the incredibly talented Lexi Blake. This series just keeps getting better and better, with more mystery, more suspense, and a whole lot more kinkiness to go around. When Lexi Blake gives us a story, you just know it's genuine and from the heart. She is such a talented consistent author that always gives her readers what they want, an action packed, intensely emotional, and sexy as hell read. Dungeon Royale is one of those stories that you will forever keep handy, not only because the cover is fucking gorgeous and drool-worthy, but the storyline is solid and so damn entertaining that you will probably want to go back for more.

❝ Here's the first rule, love. Don't tell me what I can't do. ❞

Let me introduce to you our hero, Damon Knight. Gorgeous, brooding, built like a truck, and is as Dominant as they come. His humour is kinda dry, but still his little quips are funny as hell. Damon is intense, charming, and definitely swoon worthy to the tenth degree. And of course, you can't be around Ian Taggart and not be a smart ass!

Now it's time for our heroine, Penelope Cash is just your average woman with a not so average IQ who works for M16 as well. She is a curvy girl *big props Lexi* who knows her way around several languages, but has never been out in the field. Penelope has some insecurities and she also is a virgin to the whole BDSM scene. Her life has been put on hold in order for her to take care of her mother, so she hasn't had much experience in the relationship department.

Together, the chemistry between these two are off the charts. Apart, they are just as stubborn as ever! I think Damon and Penelope were paired perfectly. Damon is the man to get Penelope past her insecurities and to stand up for herself and Penelope can see through Damon's charms. She can test him, make him work for it and keep him on his toes which I think just excites the big bad Dom even more.

❝ That's right, love. You touch me. I want you to touch me. If you belong to me, then my body is yours, too. ❞

The gang is back! Well, most of them are. Some had to stay at home to take care of all the babies :) There is Ian, Jake, Charlotte, Simon, Jesse, AND Charlotte's sister, Chelsea (who I am very intrigued about). They team up with Damon and M16 to try to take down 'The Collective.' Someone new is in charge, and it's closely connected to Damon Knight's past. With a plan in place and the right people on the job, craziness still ensues, loyalties are tested, and setbacks become the norm. Excitement will rush through your veins and your eyes will stay hooked to the pages, as you try to figure out what the end game will be.

There was no doubt in my mind that this wouldn't be tagged as a MUST READ for me. I fell in love with this series a long time ago, and Lexi Blake is keeping 'this girl' happy by bringing in more incredible characters who will just steal your heart. Damon Knight is a perfect example of these incredible characters. When a man like Damon says things like, "Don't ever leave me." to the woman he loves, it just makes my insides turn to mush. It's so damn sexy, to witness such a strong male show just how vulnerable he can be. If you haven't started the Masters & Mercenaries series yet, hop to it, because you will love it, you will crave it, and you will never forget it.

♠♣♥♦

I can't let you all go without one of my favorite lines from Mr. Taggart!

❝ Hello again, Mr. Taggart. ❞

❝ God, that makes me sound old. Call me Ian or bastard or son of a bitch. I answer to them all. ❞

*ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*

Pursuit of Passion (Access to Love)

Pursuit of Passion - Gracie Lonsdale Pursuit of Passion by Gracie Lonsdale is a sweet, romantic, passionate story about two ordinary people just trying to find their soulmate. This is one story where so many people can relate. This deals with struggles of dating, dealing with new divorcees, momma's boys, and just trying to find something more from a partner than just good sex.

We all are trying to find that special connection, that one moment you look at someone and they immediately take your breath away, the ever so mysterious "love at first sight," situation. Who knew you can find it by signing on to a dating website?! If I had a chance to be matched up with a gorgeous, home town, charming cowboy like Deacon Brooks....SIGN ME THE HELL UP NOW!

In Pursuit of Passion, we all know why Ivy Hughes had it up to "here" and finally signed up for the dating website, but I needed more of Deacon's back story. His character intrigued me so much, and I wanted more.

"I don't want to push you into anything you're not ready for, but darlin', you have to know...I'm dying to kiss every inch of your body and show you just how I'm feeling right now."

This had just enough steamy sex scenes to keep me satisfied. Not too little, not too much...perfect.

The fact that this story released on Valentine's Day was pretty damn perfect. If you are looking for a short, satisfying read that is romantic and sensual, pick this one up and you won't be disappointed.

*ARC provided by the author*

Friends with Benefits (Vault, #1)

Friends with Benefits (Vault, #1) - Anne   Lange Friends with Benefits by Anne Lange is Book 1 in her Vault Series. This is a sexy menage story where a husband and wife who have been married for a while, start to branch out and indulge in each other's fantasies.

"You must know, babe, there isn't a fantasy you have I wouldn't move heaven and earth to try to make happen for you."

Tyler and Connor are best friends who have been known to share a woman or two back in college. Angela is a woman who loves her husband dearly, but has a few fantasies that she would love to fulfill. Angela is afraid because she is worried her husband would think less of their relationship, while in fact her husband will do pretty much anything to keep his wife satisfied even if she needs more than his touch alone.

With Connor in town, Tyler jumps on the opportunity to satisfy his wife AND keep his best friend close. Tyler is the mastermind behind making his wife's dreams come true and finding his best friend a woman who will love him the way he deserves to be loved, making the bond between everyone stronger.

Will sharing his wife, come back to bite Tyler in the ass? Can a woman fall in love twice? Will fulfilling their fantasies bring them closer together or tear them apart?

Friends with Benefits was a sexy, enjoyable read. I do recommend this if you are looking for a menage story that deals with real issues regarding relationships and consequences of those types of relationships. We were introduced to The Vault later on in the story and introduced to a couple of intriguing characters that I look forward to reading more about in the following books.

*Review copy provided by the author*

Hard As You Can: A Hard Ink Novel

Hard as You Can - Laura Kaye The Hard Ink Series by Laura Kaye is a MUST READ SERIES! Hard As It Gets, book 1, was an amazing read, but book 2, Hard As You Can takes it to a whole other level of fabulous. More romance, more suspense, and more sexiness than you can imagine, Hard As You Can will keep your eyes glued to your eReader and your heart in these amazing character's hands.

The men of Hard Ink are back and they are funnier and sexier than ever! The next mission takes them in to a dance club where they are trying to find some answers behind the real reason why they were discharged. Craziness erupts right off the bat, and one of their own is finally brought back home, but the mission doesn't end there. They receive help from an unlikely source that might end up helping them get the answers they are all looking for.

Our leading man, Shane McCallan, is a good ole' southern boy who can charm the pants off of anyone with a heartbeat. Every time he says darlin', it just does something to a woman, makes her feel all tingly like. Shane is the kind of man who will make you have an orgasm by just kissing you on the forehead. And just like any great hero, he has a past, and a horrible one at that. He lost his sister at a very young age, and he has carried around this guilt for years. He blames himself, and this is something that he is unable to let go of, therefore preventing himself from ever being truly happy.

Our leading lady, Crystal Dean is a waitress at the dance club where shady things are going down. Of course, not by choice, she is stuck there, working off her deceased father's debts. She can't just up and run away because she has a sister to worry about. She needs her sister to succeed, to have a life away from this nastiness, where she can go to college and hang out with friends. She will do anything for the only family she has left, and that includes drawing all the attention to her, and away from her sister. Living with an unimaginable past, Crystal is counting down the months for when she can get her and her sister out of there, and out of that life.

Two broken souls who find each other in dire circumstances, they each provide a missing piece to the other person's heart. Hard As You Can pulled so much emotion out of me, and made it hard to imagine what these two have gone through for their families. When Shane would do the simplest of things, like open her door, or call to make sure she made it home okay, Crystal wasn't used to that behavior in a man. She didn't think that was the norm and it just breaks your heart to realize that she thought it was so foreign for someone else to care for her that much. The things that were done to Crystal were unimaginable, horrific even. The strength she shows, the fact that she is able to get up in the morning, just shows how determined she is to overcome her demons and keep her sister safe.

❝The definition of courage is action in the face of fear. By that definition, sweetness, you're the bravest person I know.❞

With amazing characters like this, and an intense storyline that will keep you guessing, Hard As You Can is the perfect read for a romance junkie like myself. This has everything you could ever want in a romantic suspense and more. If you are looking for a story that will melt your heart and make you jump up and cheer, Hard As You Can by Laura Kaye is the perfect addition to your bookshelf. I'm counting down the days until I can get back in bed with the men of Hard Ink.

❝If I could take it away and bear it for you, I would.❞

❝You just did,❞

*ARC provided by the author*

His Secrets (Inside Out Series)

His Secrets - Lisa Renee Jones The Inside Out series by Lisa Renee Jones is a series that you wish will never end. I can never get sick of these wonderful characters and this suspenseful story lines. When I heard that Lisa was releasing an Inside Out Novella in Chris's POV, I about freaked out. Not only do I love when a story is retold by the hero's POV, but Chris FREAKIN' Merit, holy shit! He is at the top of my list as far as book boyfriends go, and I will always compare others to him. Chris is sexy, artistic, possessive, mysterious. I just want him to take me away and do whatever the hell he wants to do with me :)

His Secrets consists of six parts and an epilogue. This wasn't long and drawn out. This wasn't the entire trilogy in his POV, even though I really wouldn't have minded if it was. Without giving away any spoilers, this centered around an incident with Amber and Tristan in a club in Paris. Sarah wanted Chris to share his demons with her, and well she got her wish. Sarah got to experience first hand the struggles that Chris had to deal with in his past. It's harsh, it's heartbreaking, and emotional.

❝ So you think long and hard about what you see here today, and where you're headed. But if you run, run fast. Because I'm going to come after you. That's just the kind of bastard I can't seem to help being. ❞

Every since Revealing Us, I have been missing the Inside Out series tremendously, and it was nice to have this small escape from reality and dive back into the intense love story of Chris and Sarah. His Secrets was a short intense thrill ride told by a dark, troubled, gorgeous man who is so deep in love and so scared to lose his other half, that he is risking his soul in order to be truthful with his love. It can't get better than that! This is a love story that surpasses all others and I know you will love this series AND this novella as much as I do. Lisa Renee Jones can write a romantic suspense like no other.

*ARC provided by NetGalley*