REVIEW: One Night of Sin by Elle Kennedy

One Night of Sin by Elle Kennedy
Publisher: Entangled Brazen
Publication Date: August 4, 2014
Source: Netgalley*
Rating: 4.5/5 stars
Get it: Amazon | B&N

Sometimes it’s good to be bad…

When it comes to sex, good girl Skyler Thompson always plays it safe, choosing stable and sedate over wild and thrilling. She doesn’t do one-night-stands, but one look at sinfully sexy Gage Holt and she’s willing to reconsider. He makes her want to be bad for once in her life, and she’s prepared to take what she wants.

Danger follows former MMA fighter Gage Holt like a shadow. Despite his successes as part owner of Sin, an exclusive nightclub in Boston, Gage can’t risk getting involved with a woman, especially one as sweet as Skyler. Still, he can’t resist a taste—and it’s so damn good he has to see her again.

As addicted as he is to her, Gage knows there’s no future for him and Skyler—not with his past lurking in the dark corners of an MMA cage. But Skylar’s tougher than she looks, and she’s ready to fight for her man.

My Review

One Night of Sin by Elle Kennedy was one tantalizing, arousing, and hypnotic Brazen novel I simply could not get enough of. I loved everything from the tenacity of the characters, to the sensually heated sexy times and to the fling to relationship trope. 


Skylar was such a charming character. She was a perpetual good girl who decided to finally do something wild and crazy and out of the box. She was sarcastic, humorous and just a joy to get to know. What I loved most about Skylar was how she wormed her way into Gage’s life and heart. She joked around, she cared, she was concerned about his well being and she just oozed confidence in herself as a woman and as a person. 



Gage was a brooding, ominous, self efficient and self reliant kind of character. He was convinced that he couldn’t make an emotional connection with someone or even show affection they needed. While he was convinced of that, he showed that he was capable of more than that. He was sweet, sexy, and loving in so many ways. His only fault was not being able to rely on someone else, but he worked on that. He was a fighter, but he was a guy who was dependable and reliable, a guy who had heart even though he didn’t believe so. I loved him for being just an awesome guy all around despite his internal issues. 

Skylar and Gage’s interactions went from one night stand, to a fling, to a relationship that heated up every single time they were together. It was definitely electric fan and ice water needed worthy. They heated up the office in Gage’s night club, his bedroom, Skylar’s bedroom and even dark alleyways. Just their make out sessions alone were enough to be throughly seductive. Kennedy sure knows how to write them!



What I was really impressed with was how she subtly allowed these two to indulge in things they never thought they would ever do. It was refreshing to see Skylar be impulsive and Gage be affectionate. Skylar was the light to Gage’s darkness and she allowed her warmth and inviting nature into his troubled life and brought real happiness. I just loved how these two connected in and out of the bedroom.



All in all, I was so so so infatuated by this whole book and even more so with Kennedy’s writing. I’m ready to devour her next book for sure!


*Thanks to Entangled Brazen for sending a copy in exchange for an honest review

This does not effect my opinion of the book

My Brazen Addiction: the one with Duchess and Florence

Asking for Trouble by Tessa Bailey (Line of Duty #4)
Publication Date: November 25, 2013

The fighting was just foreplay...

Brent Mason and Hayden Winstead can't stand each other. She plans exclusive parties for her rich familys charities. He's a rough and tumble cop who rigs explosives for a living. Could two people be any less suited for conversation? They think not and prefer to keep it that way.

Unfortunately, their two best friends are deeply, disgustingly in love. Forced together, the mutual attraction simmering beneath the surface of Brent and Hayden's non-relationship grows with every argument until it explodes into a scintillating night of mind-blowing sex. And it wont be the last, as far as Brent's concerned.

Hayden has a secret, though. Her father's company is relying on a merger to save them from financial ruin, and only Hayden's marriage to the CEOs wealthy son can secure the deal. If she's to protect her family, she'll have to forget Brent. And he has no intention of being forgotten. 

Get Asking for Trouble: Amazon | B&N

Oh my sweet Florence and Duchess!! 

Asking for Trouble by Tessa Bailey was...asdfghjkl !! I can’t even. It was so effing good. Like I just took a bite out of the best chocolate bar I ever had the pleasure of biting into and then experiencing a foodgasm that rocked my world, the universe, and the stars shortly thereafter. Tessa Bailey just never fails to leave me thinking: damn, that was fucking amazing!


I have the biggest most softest soft spot for Brent since I met him in Officer of Limits. He totally had me rolling on the floor laughing from his jokes. It wasn’t any different in this book. In fact, he had me smitten for his goofball side and his sexy dirty talkin’ big woohoo in bed side. Because holy sweet mother of pearl, I was feeling tingles with Brent and not the my foot fell asleep tingles either if you know what I mean. Anyway, I loved Brent so much because he had those sides to him, but he also had this honorable, respectable, protector and provider side of him as well. He wasn’t just this big bad cop or a smug, cocky guy. He was just this sweetest thing. He was like a big fluffy teddy bear I wanted to wrap my whole body around. He loved his family, he was a great friend, he worked so so hard, and he was happy and he didn’t complain. He was just so freaking wonderful. 


"Be warned, though. If you take away the use of my hands I'll only make up for it with my mouth."

"If you have any doubt about my ability to fuck the ever-loving sarcasm right out of you, I'll be more than happy to clear it up."

Hayden was the perfect match for Brent. I adored Hayden because she wasn’t afraid to dish back the shit that Brent gave her. She was confident and strong and caring and selfless. She was just as funny as Brent. I freaking loved that they argued, teased, and made fun of one another. They acted like they hated each other, but it was so obvious that there was some underlying sexual tension ready to burst out. Like a rated R version of a boy pulling a girl’s pigtails because he totes liked her.


"You are an enormous dick."
"Correction. I have an enormous-" She hung up. 

The thing I loved most about Brent and Hayden being together was how they slowly saw how different they were. As they explored their sexual relationship, they got to know one another on a deeper level and their preconceived notions about each other were challenged. Brent thought he was beneath Hayden and that he didn’t belong in her world while Hayden thought Brent would only see her as a spoiled rich girl. These things were totally changed and though there was drama and angst and fights, I loved every single second of these two so so so much!

"Don't let the door hit you on your well-spanked ass on the way out."
"Your concern is touching, sweetheart. Miss you already."

On my bedroom scale from 

 (1) COLD: I’m just not feeling it to (5) HOT: I need a fan...


Asking for Trouble by Tessa Bailey was a freaking five: burning hot! I need a fan and some ice water and where in world is my boyfriend?! Tessa does not fail to bring the sexy and I mean triple x sexxxy. Holy banana cream pie were these sexy times smokin’! The best thing was how the power was balanced and thrown back between Brent and Hayden. Hayden would be in charge in bed (which was awesome) and then Brent would dominate (even more awesome) and my goddddd, help me I was dying. It was sensual and provocative and downright panty melting orgasmic worthy. I just neeeeeeed more. 

"I'm never soft around you, duchess."



The brazenly addicted verdict...


Tessa Bailey has done it again! Each book she comes out with just gets better and better. Asking for Trouble completely swept me off my feet, made my face hurt from the laughing and I’m pretty sure I nearly broke the highlight thingy majig on my Kindle because of all the quotes I wanted to save forever and ever. This book was the whole package and most definitely my favorite enemy to lovers trope ever.

 

P.S. Brent Mason you belong in my bed 24/7.


"I guess you haven't figured it out yet, huh? This week alone I let you cuff me, stuff me into a suit, and inflict me with Blue-Ball Syndrome."

Overall rating: 5 stars for Brent babyyyyyy


My Brazen Addiction: the one with birthday sexy times

Take Me if You Dare by Nina Crespo
Publication Date: June 30, 2014

A sexy category romance novella from Entangled’s Brazen imprint…

One decadent dare, one steamy night…

It’s been a year since Jasmine Stewart dumped her cheating ex, so when her best friend dares her to have a one-night stand during a business trip to Miami, Jasmine is all in. But just as she hits her cheesy-come-ons limit, a wickedly hot former soldier comes to her rescue.
Security specialist Ethan Worth’s instincts tell him the gorgeous woman at the bar is trouble. After a sexy dance and even sexier kiss, he knows she is. But when their scintillating night leads to more, the possibility of another long distance relationship sends Jasmine running for the door.

Until the unthinkable happens. Jasmine’s company assigns her to Bode-Wynn, the military security firm where Ethan works. Forced back together, the undeniable heat between them flares to life. But sex is all it can ever be, because taking it further goes against everything Jasmine wants…and everything Ethan fears.

Get Take Me if You Dare: Amazon | B&N 

Meet Jasmine & Ethan




Three words to describe Jasmine: sexy, sophisticated, and smart! She kept on living even when her douchebag ex-fiance cheated on her and knocked up the girl! (what a jerk) Her life wasn’t on the right track, but she continued to strive and push forward. Oh Jasmine, I wanted to bop you several times over the course of this short book. If she wrote Ethan another lame run away note I was ready to strangle her, resuscitate her, then strangle her again. She was scared and I got that, but she needed a better way to handle it.



“All I’ve thought about since you walked in the door
is touching you, tasting you, and being inside of you.”



Ethan Ethan Ethan. This man, damn. He rescued Jasmine from a loser with lame ass pick up lines, wanted dinner before getting down and dirty and made her a cup of coffee the next morning. Someone please drag this man to my bed! He was just honorable and noble and yummy and he wanted to do right by Jasmine. He was so ready to put his heart on the line. Did I mention he was yummy?
 Ethan also had commitment and relationship issues. He thought that he needed to save those he loved from potential heartache. He had good intentions, but like Jasmine, both needed a wake up call! 


On my bedroom scale from 

 (1) COLD: I’m just not feeling it to (5) HOT: I need a fan...



Take Me if you Dare by Nina Crespo was a solid three: is it getting steamy in here? when it came to the sexy times. Crespo could have definitely heated it up a bit more, but for these two characters they were still sensual enough to give you just a little something something in that department. 


“If I had my way, I’d bend you over this counter, sink my cock into you,
and make it so good, you’d beg me to stop [...] ”


The brazenly addicted verdict...


This is a novella so it’s on the shorter side compared to a full length Brazen, so it wasn’t hard to rip right through it. Jasmine and Ethan’s characters are developed enough and their romance (in and out of the bedroom) heats up bit by bit. They both had the same issues in the love department, but both handled in differently and surprisingly. I did wish to see more of their romance development during the first week they spent time together, but what I did see I ended up enjoying.



“Do you know you’re nothing short of amazing?”

“You better believe it, baby.”

Overall rating: 4/5 
stars

REVIEW: Love Lost and Found by Michele de Winton

Love Lost and Found by Michele de Winton (Love on Deck #2)
Publisher: Entangled Indulgence
Publication Date: September 9, 2013
Rating: 4/5 stars
Get it: Amazon | B&N

Felicity Williams can't remember the last five years thanks to an accident that wiped out her memory. She fled her old life in hopes of starting fresh and found refuge working on a cruise ship. But her past is coming for her…

Rick McCarthy awakens after a climbing accident to discover that his business partner and fiancée has quit her job and disappeared. He’s trying to accept that she’s run out on him, but now he needs her signature to close a deal that could literally be life or death. He’ll go to any extreme to get what he needs…even if that means becoming someone else to win her back.

But a little lie becomes a large mess when they’re stranded on a deserted island together, and old misunderstandings might ruin their chance at new love… 

My Review

Reasons why I enjoyed Love Lost and Found by Michele de Winton-



Reason number 1: Amnesia plot line 


I was very interested in this book because of this angle; the fact that one character had amnesia. It’s a tough subject and sometimes not done very well, but I thought de Winton did a great job of explaining this part and integrating it into the love story. It was very realistic and not far fetched in the least. I loved that it wasn’t the main focus of the story but a piece of it that really tied things together. 



Reason number 2: Felicity Williams


The woman was spunky, witty and had fire in her eyes that never seemed to burn out. She worried that she wouldn’t be able to remember the last 5 years ever because of her amnesia, but she somehow managed to keep the brightness in her day. She was hilarious and warm despite that her old self was described as cold and unreachable. I definitely adored this Felicity. I never really knew what to expect of her and that was why she was such a great character.



Reason number 3: Rick McCarthy


I understood his need to find Felicity and I loved that he ended up being surprised as well. I liked Rick because he was strong, determined and charming. Sure, his intentions weren’t really the best in the beginning, but he came to realize some things and he sure stepped up his game. I thought he was sexy and kind of endearing too. 



Reason number 4: Second chance romance


I dig the whole giving love a second chance, but I really really loved this one between Felicity and Rick. They really got a chance to know one another and fall in love for real this time. They were able to see the other as they should have before the accident hit and in a way it was a blessing disguised as a tragedy. What I love was how deep they got, how they shared their secrets and how they were willing to make sacrifices for one another. It was truly like starting over for them and it was a wonderful thing. 


Overall, Love Lost and Found had humor, sexy scenes and sweet moments all wrapped up into a cute, fun and quick read. 

REVIEW: Winning the Boss's Heart by Hayson Manning

Winning the Boss's Heart by Hayson Manning
Publisher: Entangled Indulgence
Publication Date: September 9, 2013
Rating: 4/5 stars
Get it: Amazon | B&N

Mason Christian has twelve weeks to flip something old into something new for his Japanese client, and then he’s getting the hell out of Footsteps Bay, New Zealand. Not even his temporary cook and secretary—the feisty, luscious Billie McLeod—will deter him. There’s no denying she makes him feel alive. More alive than he’s felt in three years...

Billie has one dream: save enough money to go to college. That’s why she’s agreed to work for hard ass, all-business-no-pleasure Mason Christian—a man who has every intention of destroying through "modernization" the town’s most cherished historical home. But before she can say see ya, she realizes she’s signed the dotted line and is contractually bound for eighty-four days.  Working with male perfection every day is awesome with a capital A—as long as they can stick to a hands-off policy that gets harder every day...

My Review

I didn’t think I would absolutely, positively dig this book so much as I do! What Hayson Manning created in Winning the Boss’s Heart was such a gem. I was so swept away by the characters and the quickness of the book and just the homey feel that was weaved in. 


I thought I wouldn’t like Mason at all because he was just so demanding and cold and closed off. He even had the audacity to call his assistants by numbers instead of their names and expects them to work long ass hours. I kind of wanted to hit him upside his head and ask him what his deal was. But oh, the pain that he showed and the bottled up guilt softened my heart for him and I completely get why he was the way he was. After such a tragic loss and how he continued to blame himself, I could see why he thought the perfection he once had was all he ever would have. He totally drowned himself in work and became so walled in. I wanted to open his eyes and his heart and just make him see that there was so much out there. 

And I think Billie does the job. Here was this quirky woman who had big dreams of going back to culinary school, who had a strange but cute dog, who never stopped talking, who made every area like it was well lived in, and someone who totally challenge Mason. And that is why I loved Billie from the very start. She had more character and personality for her and Mason and everyone around. She was silly and sometimes spoke without her brain and mouth communicating and she wasn’t afraid to just banter right off with Mason. Billie was a person with so much energy and life, she was the light that Mason so desperately needed. 

These two were always at each other’s throats, but I loved them because they were exactly what the other needed. It was obvious from the start that their professional relationship would be different because of Billie’s extraordinary personality. She got under his skin and he had no choice but to let her in. Those little glimpses of him feeling something for her were the best parts for me. I especially loved the easy banter between them though most the time Mason would get angry or frustrated it was still so entertaining and made me laugh out loud. I was surprised by the amount of humor, the affection and even the hurt that both characters had or felt. For me, it was the characters that gave this book that comfort easy to read feeling and I’m so glad I picked it up!

REVIEW: The Warrior by Victoria Scott

The Warrior by Victoria Scott
Publisher: Entangled Teen
Publication Date: May 6, 2014
Source: Netgalley
Rating: 5/5 stars
Get it: Amazon | B&N

War between heaven and hell is coming, but Dante Walker makes it look damn good.

Dante’s girlfriend, Charlie, is fated to save the world. And Aspen, the girl who feels like a sister, is an ordained soldier. In order to help both fulfill their destiny and win the war, Dante must complete liberator training at the Hive, rescue Aspen from hell, and uncover a message hidden on an ancient scroll.

Dante is built for battle, but even he can’t handle the nightmares where spiders crawl from Aspen’s eyes, or the look on Charlie’s face that foretells of devastation. To make matters worse, the enemy seizes every opportunity to break inside the Hive and cripple the liberators. But the day of reckoning is fast approaching, and to stand victorious, Dante will have to embrace something inside himself he never has before—faith.

My Review

The Warrior by Victoria Scott was an exceptional end to a trilogy that introduced me to the one and only Dante Walker. In this epic finale, Scott doesn’t hesitate to raise the stakes in every level and form. Again, she entertained me, captivated me, and had me on the edge of my seat for the most part. 

Like I said previously in my review for The Liberator, I appreciate Scott for keeping Dante true to his character. He really has come full circle, even more so in The Warrior. He was still self conscious about his Liberator role, but Dante was so determined to help with the impending war, to protect Charlie and save Aspen from hell. I really thought I saw an even more deeper side to Dante in this book. True to his form, he was still arrogant, but my favorite parts of him were his doubts, his fears, and the guilt he felt even for the enemy. Dante learns a lot about himself, he pushes himself to be stronger and better, and he opens himself up to friendship and opens his eyes to the Big Guy. Dante was not perfect as much as he wishes to be and he made plenty of mistakes, but he continued to redeem himself, he continued to keep on trying and he made sure that he was giving his all every single time. 

I loved how plenty of new characters showed up and helped shaped Dante in this last book. Granted not all of them were truly on the good side, I did like the good I saw in them. My favorite quirky new character had to be Oswald. He was fun and smart and his role in the book was awesome. And speaking of characters, although it pains me to see some that I grew to love meet their end, I was glad that Scott wasn't afraid to kill certain characters. It was upsetting and heart breaking, but she gave their deaths meaning. She never once cut corners or did it just to give the book dramatics. Those deaths were legitimate and was given a close. I was also surprised by the amount of betrayal in the book, how certain characters turned from the Liberator side. It’s funny how love and war are tricky and dirty and desperate and Scott totally managed to rock my belief in those particular characters.

The amount of action and fighting in The Warrior was immense compared to book one and two. The strategies, the killing, the battles, the weapons were all exciting and shocking and probably the best parts of the book. Scott gave me exactly what I was looking for when it came to wars and epic battles and she did not disappoint in that last showdown between Dante and Rector. She built up the anticipation, she gave the thrill, she put in the drama, and the harsh reality that many will fall. 

Overall, I really love The Warrior. It was a fine piece of work to end Dante’s story. Scott was well rounded in this one and I’m completely content with how everything wrapped up so nicely. There is only one Dante Walker and Victoria Scott made sure we would never forget that. 

*Thanks to Entangled Teen for sending a copy for review purposes

More Reviews on Dante Walker:

The Collector by Victoria Scott (Dante Walker #1)
The LIberator by Victoria Scott (Dante Walker #2)

REVIEW: The Liberator by Victoria Scott

The Liberator by Victoria Scott (Dante Walker #2)
Publisher: Entangled Teen
Publication Date: August 27, 2013
Rating: 4/5 stars
Get it: Amazon | B&N

Bad boy, meet bad girl.

Dante has a shiny new cuff wrapped around his ankle, and he doesn't like that mess one bit. His new accessory comes straight from Big Guy himself and marks the former demon as a liberator. Despite his gritty past and bad boy ways, Dante Walker has been granted a second chance.

When Dante is given his first mission as a liberator to save the soul of seventeen-year-old Aspen, he knows he’s got this. But Aspen reminds him of the rebellious life he used to live and is making it difficult to resist sinful temptations. Though Dante is committed to living clean for his girlfriend Charlie, this dude’s been a playboy for far too long…and old demons die hard.

With Charlie becoming the girl she was never able to be pre-makeover and Aspen showing him how delicious it feels to embrace his inner beast, Dante will have to go somewhere he never thought he’d return to in order to accomplish the impossible: save the girl he’s been assigned to, and keep the girl he loves.

My Review

Victoria Scott brings bad boy Dante Walker back in The Liberator along with the rest of the crew we’ve all come to love. There’s a splash of new characters here and there, romance for sure and lots of action to keep you on your toes.

I have to say that while Dante has changed from the person he was in The Collector, he hasn’t completely become a new person. For that I was thankful to Scott because she still made Dante, well..Dante. In The Liberator, Dante was still that sarcastic, super funny, cocky, bacon and red color loving guy. But he was different in the sense that he struggled to come to terms with being a Liberator instead of a Collector. He continued to believe he was a demon, bad to the bone, and that he was never going to be good enough for Charlie. I really liked how Scott kept Dante the way he was, but gradually changed him on his own terms. Charlie makes him a better man, but it was ultimately he himself who discovered that he wasn’t all bad and that his love for her was proof of that.


This book definitely showed a more softer, vulnerable side to Dante. We see him doubt himself when it comes to his relationship with Charlie and with his assignment towards Aspen. We see what really haunted Dante, what his true inner demons were. He really learns to let go and care for not just Charlie, but for Aspen and other characters. 

There was appearance of some old characters that we get to further know and love and Scott even throws in a returning characters I never thought I would see again. And of course, she takes away as well and that in of itself was a heartbreak for sure and probably the most vulnerable I have ever seen Dante to be. It was so well written and touching. Anyway, Aspen was the new addition and she was misunderstood for sure. Don’t let her rebellious, free spirit nature fool you because Aspen can kick ass with her big attitude to match. I liked that she was like the female version of Dante in almost every sense, emotion and inner demon wise. And like Dante, Aspen learns a lot about herself, about Charlie, about her purpose. I do wish that there was just a tad bit more of Aspen and Dante in the story. It was mostly in the beginning and especially in the end, but she sort of faded into the background around the middle. However, the sister-brother relationship that formed between Dante and Aspen was my favorite of the whole novel.

Like I said, there was plenty of action and adventure in The Liberator. So if you’re looking for some Liberator vs. Collector fist fights, you won’t be disappointed. It wasn’t just collectors anymore, but Sirens as well that are after Charlie and Dante. Secrets start coming out, especially the ones pertaining to Charlie and Aspen’s purpose. There was mention of scrolls and training at the Hive that adds great twists to the book. Questions do get answered along with why everything is the way it is and what may come. The witty banter rivals all of this, but it no means does it overtake. It just adds the perfect amount of humor and entertainment to keep the novel going. 

All in all, The Liberator was a fantastic follow up to The Collector. Dante grows up a lot and it really shows and I’m sure readers will be surprised by how much. I can’t wait to wrap this series up in the next book!

REVIEW: Obsession by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Obsession by Jennifer L. Armentrout
Publisher: Entangled Publishing Covet
Publication Date: May 31, 2013
Source: Publisher
Rating: 5/5 stars
Get it: Amazon | B&N

He’s arrogant, domineering, and... To. Die. For.

Hunter is a ruthless killer. And the Department of Defense has him firmly in their grasp, which usually doesn’t chafe too badly because he gets to kill bad guys. Most of the time he enjoys his job. That is, until he’s saddled with something he’s never had to do before: protect a human from his mortal enemy.

Serena Cross didn’t believe her best friend when she claimed to have seen the son of a powerful senator turn into something... unnatural. Who would? But then she witnesses her friend’s murder at the hands of what can only be an alien, thrusting her into a world that will kill to protect their secret.

Hunter stirs Serena’s temper and her lust despite their differences. Soon he’s doing the unthinkable—breaking the rules he’s lived by, going against the government to keep Serena safe. But are the aliens and the government the biggest threats to Serena’s life… or is it Hunter?

My thoughts, feelings, and reactions

Holy hot Arum! Jennifer L. Armentrout had me all hot and bothered for Hunter in Obsession like you wouldn’t believe. She really steps it up with every novel she creates and this novel is no exception to the great work she has already put out that I’ve had the pleasure to read. 

Obsession follows two characters: normal human, Serena and bad boy Arum, Hunter. These two come together under the worst of circumstances for both of them. Serena witnesses her best friend’s murder by a Luxen and is needed protection ordered by the DoD with the reluctant help of Hunter. Although Serena was grieving for her friend, she was a strong character. Even with all the craziness of aliens on Earth, she seemed to try to wrap her mind around all of it as best she could. I liked her because she looked weak and timid, but she had some serious feistiness in her. She wasn’t too afraid to fight back physically or verbally. Hunter had a bad attitude and didn’t give a crap about anything. I swear he was pissed off 80% of the time. He was definitely worst than Daemon when it came to opening his mouth. He was cocky and infuriating and commanding and demanding but he was so freaking irresistible. It was really awesome that Serena was able to dish the sarcasm and anger right back at Hunter. He makes her rebel right back and she sort of entertains him to no extent. 

JLA does an amazing job with her writing in this book. It was very easy going and not hard to follow at all. She differentiates Hunter and Serena’s voice tremendously. She gives both characters personality and edge. And what I really loved was way she allowed both of them to grow and change like well developed characters should be. She made Hunter’s character believable because she didn't change that he was an Arum, that he was bad though not completely. She allowed Hunter to care and love Serena in a realistic way in his actions and self control. And it goes the same for Serena because she learned to trust and believe in Hunter even when it was very hard to. What was truly impressive with Obsession was how JLA was able to show the gray area between good and bad for both Luxen and Arum. The lines got extremely blurred here and saying that one side was good and the other bad was not true or clear at all and I was more than ok with that. 

There was plenty of action and fighting between Arum and Luxen that I found  all the running and chasing to be riveting and exciting. It was super cool to visualize the way they fight and how they use their powers. I love the darkness from Hunter, how he could be so scary and relentless while being so absolutely breathtaking all at once. And speaking of action, the scenes between Serena and Hunter, and their building sexual tension hit way past the boiling point of burning hot. I’m going to admit that their scenes were a turn on. Yep, I went there! JLA can surely write one outstanding steamy sexy scenes. *fans self*


I really could go on and on about why I loved this book to pieces and bits. I really enjoyed how Hunter and Serena started of not really liking each other all that much and ending up caring about each other to the point that they were protecting each other with all they had. I was especially swayed by Hunter because he was so adamant in the beginning, but because Serena pushed her way into his life, she became his everything. 

Because of all that and so much more, Obsession was top notch and had me engrossed ‘til the very last word. 

*Thanks to Entangled for sending a copy in an exchange for an honest review

Favorite Quotes

"You have a feisty little attitude, don't you?"
"You're about to get a feisty little foot up your ass."

"I can't get off? Oh, I most definitely can get off."

'To feast? Fuck that. I wanted to devour her.'

'It was almost cute, I thought, except I didn't do cute. But I wanted to do her.'

"Hunter...what are you doing?"
"What I want. And I want you."

'She was my light, my warmth, and I wasn't ready to let her go.'

"Is there really anything such as a good Luxen?"
"Is there really such a thing as a good Arum?"

REVIEW: If Only by A.J. Pine

If Only by A.J. Pine
Publisher: Entangled Embrace
Publication Date: March 24, 2014
Source: Netgalley
Rating: 4/5
Get it: Amazon | B&N

Sometimes it takes crossing an ocean to figure out where you belong.

It's been two years since twenty-year-old Jordan had a boyfriend—which means it's been forever since she, well, you know. But now she’s off to spend her junior year in Aberdeen, Scotland, the perfect place to stop waiting for Mr. Right and just enjoy Mr. Right Now.

Sexy, sweet (and possible player) Griffin may be her perfect, no-strings-attached match. He’s fun, gorgeous, and makes her laugh. So why can’t she stop thinking about Noah who, minutes after being trapped together outside the train’s loo, kisses Jordan like she’s never been kissed before? Never mind his impossible blue eyes, his weathered, annotated copy of The Great Gatsby (total English-major porn)…oh, and his girlfriend.

Jordan knows everything this year has an expiration date. Aberdeen is supposed to be about fun rather than waiting for life to happen. But E. M. Forster, Shakespeare, and mistletoe on Valentine’s Day make her reconsider what love is and how far she’s willing to go for the right guy.

3 reasons why I enjoyed If Only by A.J. Pine



Main character Jordan-


I must admit that there is nothing that extraordinary when it comes to Jordan, but I liked her because she had the courage to spend her year of school in Scotland without knowing anyone there. She stepped out of her comfort zone and she was determined to be a new Jordan, to reinvent herself. She ended up finding really good friends and going after love. She wasn’t perfect by any stretch and made some bad choices, but she learned from them rather than dwelling on them.



Love triangle Griffin vs. Noah-


I love both these boys, maybe one more than the other. Griffin was the sweetest, most flirtatious, fun guy. He showed Jordan that he wasn’t the man-whore she first thought him to be. There was so much potential and a connection I was rooting for from the very start. Griffin cared for Jordan so much, he was willing to try and I adored him for being so down to earth. Noah was just like Jordan because they had so much in common from the beginning. He was different altogether because he was sort of cute and shy and just lovely. I didn’t feel their connection as much as I did with Griffin, but I loved how passionate Noah and Jordan were for the same things. 



Romance development-


I have to admit that I was turned off by Jordan’s reaction in the very beginning because it felt unrealistic. However, the romance between these two characters span months. There was some serious intense whiplash type of ups and downs which drove me crazy, but I liked it because it kept me on my toes. There was a lot of tension, angst and jealousy that really kept me entertained. I also liked that though there was a third party issue, there wasn’t any cheating going on. 



My one issue with the whole book was the lack of setting. I knew If Only was set in Scotland, but I didn’t get much of the culture. I wanted more of Scotland since it was the place that changed and shaped Jordan, but it was brushed over for the romance. It wasn’t bad, but it was something I wished was more touched upon. 



Other than that, If Only was a great love story set internationally. 


*Thanks to Entangled for sending a copy in exchange for an honest review

REVIEW: Tempted by the Soldier by Nicolette Day

Tempted by the Soldier by Nicolette Day (Falling for You #2)
Publisher: Entangled Brazen
Publication Date: February 24, 2014
Source: eARC via publisher*
Rating: 5/5 stars
Get it: Amazon | B&N

When one touch isn’t enough, why resist?

Road trips are supposed to be fun. Or, at least, full of hot sex. For photographer Lilly Grayson, the fifteen-hour drive to her friend’s wedding with Nate Jennings will be neither. Not that Nate isn’t sexy—the man is six-foot-three-inches of mouth-watering Marine. But Lilly’s been there, done that…and he walked away. Now it’s time for a little payback. The kind that’ll make a man desperate for a taste of what he can’t have.

And Nate wants a taste—so badly that he can barely keep his hands on the wheel. But the scars and ghosts of his last tour still haunt him. He can’t give into temptation, not this time. Lilly deserves a whole man—one who can love her the way she deserves to be loved, even if she doesn’t believe it can happen. And that can’t be Nate. Not when he’s leaving again in two weeks, and this time, he’s not sure he’ll return…

My thoughts, feelings, and reactions

Oh Nicolette Day, you slay me! You really do. Tempted by the Soldier was exceptional and twice the superbness of its shorter predecessor. The angst was there, the romance was spot on, the sex scenes were scorching, and the banter was off the charts!



I have been waiting for Tempted by the Soldier since I finished No Strings Attached and needed to read more about Lilly and Nate. Those two were so freaking hot in and out of the bed (if they were even using a bed). But before I get into that.. Lilly was just so snarky and funny. She talked too much but had the best comebacks when it came to Nate. The girl was so witty! And Nate, god. He was so sexy even though he suffered from PTSD and misplaced survivor’s guilt. He was such a tortured soul, yet so strong willed too. My heart broke for the agony and pain he was in emotionally and mentally.



Nicolette Day totally dazzled with this book. I loved the way she added in a little bit of Hayden and Jace in the book while still keeping the focus on Nate and Lilly. The road trip along with Nate’s old memories really gave insight to who Nate was and how he came to carry so much guilt and even Lilly’s background and fears were a very nice touch as well. But what I really loved so much was the outrageous sexual tension that just kept on brewing between the two along with their most entertaining, humoring arguments. It was a great balance that was part hilarious and part sexy. Most of the time I just wanted them to kiss or just do it already because I think I was dying of deprivation for them! Day also coupled sweet tender moments and even really intense, heartbreaking ones to really balance and give the book even more depth. Because Day develops Nate and Lilly’s characters and builds up their relationship to an explosive climax (no pun intended) you can’t help but root for them and fall in love with them and just experience them in the most passionate way. I’m telling you this book had it all. There were ups and downs, some fighting and crying and lots of kissing and the most funniest zipper incident I have ever read!



All in all, Tempted by the Soldier was flawlessly written. It was delicious, romantic and freaking orgasmic. Nicolette Day, I need seconds and thirds and fourths please because I just can’t get enough! 

*Thanks to Entangled for sending a copy for review purposes

I was not compensated for my opinion

Favorite Quotes

"The only issue to work out was that Nate Jennings suffered from a severe case of assholeitis."

"Yet another reason to hate him. The bastard had broken her libido with his wonder penis. Jerk."

"All the blood in his body was headed south, and if she kept this up there wouldn't be any left north of the border to keep him going."

"I want your taste in my mouth. I want you riding my cock. Screaming my name. Begging me for release." 

"If you tell me you can't do this now, I swear to God, I'll drown you in this sink."

"But I have cookies if you're interested."
"Oh, I'm very interested in your cookies."

"Need a ride, Princess?"
"Take me home, Soldier Boy."

REVIEW: Marine for Hire by Tawna Fenske

Marine for Hire by Tawna Fenske (Front and Center #1)
Publisher: Entangled Brazen
Publication Date: February 3, 2014
Source: eARC via publisher*
Rating: 5/5 stars
Get it: Amazon | B&N

She thought she’d sworn off military men for good…

Sam Kercher is every inch a wickedly hot Marine. Tall. Sexy. Lethal. When his best friends call in a favor, Sam is forced to face an entirely new line of duty—playing nanny for their newly divorced sister and her squirming seven-month-old twin boys. If Sam can dissemble an M16 in his sleep, diaper duty should be a cakewalk…right?

Unfortunately, Operation Nanny isn’t quite that simple. Sheridan has sworn off overbearing military men, so Sam must protect her from her dirtbag ex without revealing just how much he has in common with her brothers. Or that he’s been ordered not to touch her. Ever. Problem is, Sheri’s one hell of a gorgeous woman, capable of making this hard-bodied marine even harder. And Sam wants her bad.
Protect the girl. Care for the babies. Hide his identity. And keep his hands off. But even the most disciplined Marine has weaknesses...and Sheridan is one Sam might not be able to resist.

My thoughts, feelings, and reactions

Marine for Hire by Tawna Fenske was steamy, funny, sexy and oh so fabulous! 



What really stood out for me the most was Sheri. She was such strong female main character. She had her doubts here and there about being a “normal mom” but I thought the way she took care of her boys, protecting them and doing everything for them was what defined to be what a good mom was supposed to be. I really loved that Sheri didn’t need a man in her life. She could handle whatever came her way and she just kept showing me that throughout the book by handling her brother, Sam, and her ex-husband. But also by standing on her own two feet and learning to ask for help when she truly needed it. 



Sam was great. I really have nothing bad to say about him except maybe for his initial lies. Even so, his heart and his intentions was in the right place. He was adorable because he didn’t really know how to cook or even how to change diapers, but the fact that he tried was pretty awesome. Sam was just as strong as Sheri, honorable, and a decent guy through and through. He totally stole my heart the second he realized how beautiful, how amazing Sheri was as a person, as a woman and as a mother. He appreciated her, helped her, and he just cherished her the way she should have been cherished in the first place. 



Fenske wrote a fun novel that had a splash of suspense and humor with tons of sizzling moments. The connection between Sheri and Sam was palpable and their relationship as whole seemed effortless and completely natural. The story just flowed nicely and it really allowed me to soak in the Hawaii background, the romance that built between the two main characters and just the easy pace of the book in its entirety. I really had no complaints about this one. It just had everything I could want in a Brazen. 

*Thanks to Entangled for providing a copy for review purposes.

I was not compensated for my opinion.

Favorite Quotes

"He looks like the sort of guy who'd be very attentive to your orgasm."

"You can't tell that sort of thing at a glance,"

"Sure I can. I had one just looking at him."

"Are you trying to drive me insane, or do you genuinely want me to throw you across this table and fuck you 'til neither of us can stand?"

"You just happened to trip over your shoelaces and fall with your dick in another woman?"

"It won't be hard. Speaking of hard things--"

"We were not speaking of hard things."

"I take it from the glow on your faces things went went?"

"You can take it from the glow on our faces that we just had sex in the car."

"I didn't need to know that."

I have more, but I realized there's a pattern that's not entirely appropriate (;

REVIEW: Dirty Trick by Christine Bell

Dirty Trick by Christine Bell (Perfectly Matched #1)
Publisher: Entangled Brazen
Publication Date: September 23, 2013
Rating: 5/5 stars
Get it: Amazon | B&N

This matchmaker’s about to meet her match…

Grace Love is lousy with men. She can spot a match for someone else a mile away, and her balls-on instincts are why her matchmaking business is thriving, but finding her own Prince Charming? The only guy who makes her sixth sense tingle is her playboy best friend, Trick, and no way is she risking their friendship, no matter how hot she knows the sex will be.

SWAT officer Trick Matthews is a patient guy, but Grace’s inability to see what’s right in front of her is grinding on his last nerve. Yeah, he blew his shot at breaking out of the friend zone when he tamped down the urge to lick her from head to toe the day they met, but he’s got a plan that’ll change her mind. Incognito at Salem’s hottest Halloween party, he’ll show her exactly how good they could be…and that he’s the man for her.

My thoughts, feelings, and reactions

Christine Bell really stepped up her game with her new Brazen book, Dirty Trick. Not even a page in and I was completely hooked! By the end, I was half blown away and half upset that I had finished it. I thought Dirty Trick was damn near perfect from the wittiness, the sexiness, and my god, don’t even get me started on Trick. It had absolutely everything I loved and it reminded me just how much I adore Bell’s writing style. 



Lets start with independent, super cool, extremely funny Grace Love. I absolutely adored and cherished her the moment she showed up on page. I loved that she had both fragility and strength within her and how she was smart but shy and guarded too. Sometimes she didn’t know what she was doing, but I found her to be very endearing and sweet. I loved her devotion and passion for her job and how much she cared for those she held dear to her. 



Trick was absolutely amazing. Sure, his approach was wrong, but I would be lying if I said it wasn’t hot and sexy. He had good intentions for Grace and I loved that he finally stepped up to win her heart once and for all. I had no doubts when it came to his love for Grace; it was true all the way. I appreciated the way he helped Grace gain more confidence and finally put her past demons behind her. He was the sweetest, kindest, most loving person ever, he was nothing short of perfect. 



I’m a sucker for a friends-to-lovers trope, but even more so now that I have lived, breathed, and loved Trick and Grace. I think these two completely moved all the other friends to lovers couples I have loved in the past and became number one. Their chemistry was explosive and their scenes together were dynamite but tender and gentle too. Whether they were friends or lovers, they just belonged.



I was utterly impressed and floored by this book. I was thoroughly entertained and riveted by every aspect and I probably swooned more than a few times. I enjoyed the match making service Grace ran with her best friend and the “tingles” she felt. I thought it was a great addition to the novel that kept the ball rolling for Grace professionally, but also helped her romantically without her realizing it to begin with. 



Dirty Trick was very well written and had the perfect amount of wit and romance matched with the realistic and authentic scenes between Trick and Grace. Bell definitely made me laugh, made my heart beat faster and she sure as hell made me smile all throughout the book. 

REVIEW: Temporarily Yours by Diane Alberts

Temporarily Yours by Diane Alberts (Shillings Agency #1)
Publisher: Entangled Brazen
Publication Date: February 3, 2014
Source: eARC via publisher
Rating: 4.5/5 stars
Get it: Amazon | B&N

This marine's the perfect hoax…if she doesn’t fall for him first.

Stats whiz Kayla Moriarity knows her way around numbers and algorithms. Men, on the other hand, are unsolvable equations. Now Kayla’s en route to her sister’s wedding—alone and without the fictional boyfriend she invented for her family. Fortunately, her plane comes complete with complimentary cocktails and a ridiculously hot ex-marine in the seat beside her. And that’s all it takes for Kayla’s inhibitions to go sailing out the airlock...

Cooper Shillings has soft spot for people in trouble, but he certainly wasn’t expecting to land in it himself—and definitely not while getting naughty mid-air with a sexy southern belle. When he hears Kayla’s predicament, however, he offers his services as a stand-in boyfriend. After all, he’s heading overseas soon...and how could he refuse a little no-strings wickedness?

It’s the perfect plan. And all Kayla has to do is ensure her family falls for the ultimate bluff, without falling for it—and Cooper—in the process...

My thoughts, feelings, and reactions

I’m a big fan of faking it until it’s real love relationship-y books and Temporarily Yours was no exception. In fact, I thought it was a super cute, super heart warming, super hot hot hot one at that. 



Kayla and Cooper were the best match! I absolutely loved them together from the time they met, to their first kiss and fight, until the very end. Kayla was smart, a loving daughter, and quirky. She was different with her fear of flying, her babbling, and how she spurted out statistics. Cooper was honorable, helpful, and such a sweetheart. I loved how right off the bat he had some vulnerability and endearing qualities. Both of them were flirty and sexy and had the best chemistry. I also thought that these two really worked because both had personal issues to deal with and together they brought that forward and made each other stronger. 

What I really loved about Temporarily Yours was being able to watch these two fall for each other and seeing the exact moment when they realized it. They opened up to each other and let all the feelings out there, even though they tried to deny to themselves. This really got to me in such a mushy gushy way and I loved it. Though these two did go a little quick when you think about it, for me it didn’t feel that way at all. Kayla and Cooper just clicked, they knew each other nearly in and out. They just had the perfect balance of heat, sweet, and swoon when they were together and I seriously could not get enough.



Overall, I adored Temporarily Yours. Diane Alberts wrote this novel with a lot of passion, sizzle and bang. Best of all, it had the funny and tender moments that were completely unforgettable.

*Thanks to Entangled Brazen for sending a copy for review purposes

I was not compensated for my opinion

REVIEW: Wicked Heat by Nicola Marsh

Wicked Heat by Nicola Marsh (Feel the Heat #1)
Publisher: Entangled Brazen
Publication Date: September 2, 2013
Rating: 4.5/5 stars
Get it: Amazon | B&N | Kobo

Competitors by day, lovers by night…

Allegra Wilks has had the worst month of her personal and professional life. To save her company, she must go on her would-be honeymoon and land the luxury eco-island resort’s lucrative advertising account. But when a lingerie mishap leads her into the arms of a wickedly distracting Australian, Allegra’s tempted to skip the trip and explore the most sensual kiss she’s ever experienced. Too bad their chance encounter at the airport is just that.

Having recently lost his company to his former best friend’s shady business tactics, Jett Alcott is headed to a South Pacific resort to secure an advertising account that will resurrect his reputation and career. Realizing the tantalizing Allegra Wilks is on his flight, Jett envisions a week filled with business and pleasure. But Jett doesn’t know Allegra’s fighting for the same account, or that there’s more at stake than his heart.

My Review

Another Brazen book that goes above and beyond when it comes to romance and seduction. Wicked Heat by Nicola Marsh really brings in all the elements of why I adore the Brazen line so much: steamy scenes, chemistry that pours off the page, and witty entertainment from characters that are easy to fall in love with. 

Jett and Allegra give the title of this book some serious justice. These two don’t just heat up the pages, they were freaking on fire. I absolutely loved these two together, whether they were going back and forth with their clever banter, being totally swoon worthy sweet and especially their steamy scenes that made me wish I was the one all over Jett. These two were just burning with electricity and chemistry. I adored Jett because in his cocky, charming and smooth side, there was a vulnerable guy who had doubts, fears, and insecurities. It was something I don’t normally see when it comes to guys. He laid it all out on the table and I loved him for that. Allegra was an amazing character as well because she was feisty, intelligent, and thoughtful. I loved that she was innocent, but confident even in her uncertainty. I thought she was very sexy in a subtle way and that she was just as ambitious and determined as Jett was. I just thought Allegra and Jett were meant for each other; they were just too cute!


I really like the way Marsh took Jett and Allegra’s story. I always enjoy a book where love and career is at stake and I thought Marsh played out everything in a very realistic, yet romantic way. It was never over the top and always believable and genuine. Marsh also tackled flings turning into love and commitment and issues of trust and relinquishing control when it came to relationships. I really loved the way she brought these two together, the conflict she put them through and how they ended up when I finished. I think my own complaint would be that I wanted more Jett and Allegra at the end. They were just so perfect, I couldn’t get enough!


Overall, Wicked Heat was a fast-paced, humorous and sexy read. Nicola Marsh, I want more please!

#MrSeptember Throwdown!

The six heroes from this month’s BRAZENS are battling it out to be your Mr. September. 

Who gets your vote?

Each day this week the six heroes are stopping by some awesome blogs to answer both sexy and sweet personal questions, so you can really get a taste of what they’re like ;)  Each day you get to cast your vote, and at the end of the week one sexy hero will be crowned the winner of the #MrSeptember Throwdown!

Remember, each vote also counts as an entry for one of SIX prizes so be sure to follow along and vote every day to increase your chances of winning!  Visit Entangled in Romance for a recap on the awesome prizes! 

Now, to meet the men competing in the #MrSeptember Throwdown!

Whew! Hot, hot, hot - these men have definitely turned up the heat! 

Ian: Wicked Games by Samanthe Beck  (part of the anthology)

Grayson: Seducing Mr. Right by Katee Robert  (part of the anthology)

Craig: Tempted by His Best Friend by Cari Quinn  (part of the anthology)

Derek: Protecting What's Theirs by Tessa Bailey  (part of the anthology)

Jett: Wicked Heat by Nicola Marsh 

Trick: Dirty Trick by Christine Bell 

Here are today’s questions for the men

Question #9: What kind of personality do you look for in a woman?

Ian: Confident, complicated, tough-on-the-outside but soft-on-the-inside, once she knows and trusts me.

Grayson: An independent woman who knows her own mind, and doesn't hesitate to speak her mind.

Trick: Fun, easy-going, quick to laugh, loyal.

Derek: Feisty as hell, but soft when she needs to be. A woman who takes her responsibilities seriously, but also knows when to blow them off and spend the day underneath me in bed.

Jett: Killer sense of humor. It’s a huge turn-on to verbally spar with an intelligent woman. Great part of foreplay.

Craig: Fun, intelligent, someone who likes to laugh and love with equal intensity. A strong woman who matches me in every way. And if she likes to get a little - or a lot - freaky, even better.

Question #10: What’s your hottest “move” in the bedroom?

Ian: I’m a homicide detective, so I’ve always got the handcuffs handy.

Grayson: Ah, ah. As I said before, a gentleman never tells. However, I will say that it involves handcuffs.

Trick: I’m more of a hands-on kind of guy. If you give Gracie a call and have her come by, I’d be willing to demonstrate, though…

Derek: Pick one, baby.

Jett: Whatever pleases her. I like seeing my woman get off. Mouth, hands, the rest…I like to think of the whole package rather than one specific move.

Craig: Let's just say I'm happy to spend a good long time on my knees before she gets on hers. Ladies come first in my book. And often.

-------

Oh, don't mind me.

I'm just busy swooning over here.

*dies*

a Rafflecopter giveaway

REVIEW: Eat, Play, Lust by Tawna Fenske

Eat, Play, Lust by Tawna Fenske
Publisher: Entangled Flirt
Publication Date: August 26, 2013
Source: Netgalley via publisher*
Rating: 4/5 stars
Get it: Amazon | B&N | Kobo

Cami Pressman is a yoga instructor with a lifelong secret love of junk food. Not even an irresistible man can replace the mouthwatering wickedness of her favorite foods.

Until, that is, Paul Hammond signs up for her class. He’s a gourmet chef looking to score some fitness tips, and a date with Cami. Suddenly Cami’s lust for junk food isn’t the only thing making her tingle.

When this sinful chef and hot yoga teacher eat, play, and lust together, they just might bring their obsession to a new level.

My Review

Three words: Sweet, devourable, and adorable. 



Eat Play Lust is just the perfect book to give you a nice, quick, and easy paced read. It’s short enough to fly through but developed enough to really make your heart soar with warmth and give you all the tingly feels.


Cami was a super cute character. She was passionate about yoga and being a good instructor to her students. She had a secret love for junk food, specifically tater tots, which I completely loved about her. Cami still had insecurities about her body despite how much she takes care of it now, which I think a lot of girls can relate to when it comes to their own images of their body. Cami definitely wasn’t perfect and a very easily connectable character who had a quirky personality that wasn’t hard to fall in love with. 



Paul was so endearingly awkward! He was a complete sweetheart who could say the weirdest things at inappropriate times, but I just adored him. I love that he had the biggest crush on Cami and wanted one on one time with her. I loved that he indulged in Cami’s love for tater tots. And oh my god, the way he talked about food, created food, and made it into a form of sexy foreplay. The man was hot and he completely owned the way he could turn junk food into something special. He didn’t tease or make fun of Cami and embraced her flaws and relished in her desires. 



I thought Eat, Play, Lust was a delectable read. I enjoyed it very much, though I wish it was longer. It definitely put a smile on my face and even brought out a few laughs. 


*Thanks to Entangled for sending a copy for review purposes 

I was not compensated for my opinion.