The greater the risk, the hotter the reward…

Homicide cop Troy Bennett had a reputation with the Chicago PD for being fearless and in control—until the night his daredevil partner is killed during a raid. From that moment on, he swears he’ll never again be responsible for the loss of a loved one. To escape his demons, Troy transfers to the NYPD, bringing him up close and personal with Ruby Elliott, a beautiful, street-savvy pool hustler.

Reckless and stubbornly independent, Ruby embodies everything Troy’s avoiding, but when she walks into the pub he’s at with his new coworkers and blows his carefully laid plans to hell, Troy knows he has to have her—risks be damned. But there’s a connection between Ruby’s shadowed past and a case Troy’s working involving a notorious Brooklyn felon, throwing her safety into jeopardy. Confronted with his biggest fear, will Troy push Ruby away to keep her safe or fight to keep her in his arms where she belongs?

*blurb taken from author’s website*

Lou: Has demanded that I read HIS RISK TO TAKE because of a certain scene involving a cue stick and because the hero was deliciously, smutty mouthed. Troy was dirty mouthed and he was raw and gritty in his smexing. Ruby is a confident woman who connects with Troy’s dominance in the bedroom, but gives him a run for his money outside of the bedroom. She’s a pool hustler but she’s trying to make a new life for herself that doesn’t involve criminal activities. Yet she still hustles because she has to make money and it’s all that she knows.

I loved the first half of the book because the tension between Troy and Ruby was very intense. Unfortunately, outside of the hot smexing, I got irritated with Ruby’s character and her TSTL moment when she interferes in Troy’s investigation.

Has: I really enjoyed Tessa Bailey’s His To Protect, because she had a fun and compelling voice with engaging characters who were full of snark and smexy talk. His Risk To Take also has similar elements, and lets just say that Troy the hero is one very sexy but dirty sweet-talker which really made the pages sizzled for me.

But I have to agree with you about the ending which had the TSTL moment. Although it wasn’t as bad as the first book for me. But I wished the circumstances for the heroine to lead to that moment was not a forced plot point because it was a kind of a let down for me too.

Lou: The intensity between them was fantastic and I nearly blushed at the cue scene where Troy makes Ruby squirm. I agree that the suspense part felt a little forced and I wondered at times about the conflict of interest Troy had as a police detective to Ruby’s activities and her ex-contacts. Not a lot of time was spent on their emotions outside of the bedroom and other than being a hustler and Troy’s dirty talking, I didn’t know much about them as characters. When Evie decides to involve herself in the investigation to try and get Driscoll arrested by Troy, I knew instantly that this was TSTL territory and I ended up being irritated with Ruby because she was at fault. When Troy offered her protection, she blithely ignored it and became arrogant in ‘shrugging’ them off.

Has: Ohhh I loved the sexual tension between them and I agree the intensity especially with the love scenes was built-up fantastically. I melted with their first encounter which had Troy playing more hard to get which was a nice role reversal and I have to say that it was one of the best foreplay/non coital scenes I ever read. It really ratcheted up the heat factor and Troy was such a fun but sexy hero.

But I agree with you about the TSTL decision at the end although it did make sense why she would go to get more information for Troy but I wished this better approached because it was a bit ham-fisted about how Ruby got herself into that decision. I did like that Troy was willing to sacrifice their burgeoning relationship to protect her instead of taking advantage when he found out about her connection with Driscoll. I think Tessa Bailey really does alpha heroes really well and they don’t fall into the ass-hole territory. But I did enjoy the grovelling scene at the end with Troy trying to win her back. I did think he also messed as well although he was trying to protect her.

Lou:Her heroes are very growly and rawr so I kinda want the heroines to be their match and not have TSTL moments. Troy did flare up easily in anger around Ruby but I kept thinking, dude, you know she cons people out of their money? Why do you get so riled up when she doesn’t fall into what you do or say.

All in all, His Risk to take is a sexy novella that heats up the pages but I would have liked more emotional outside of the bedroom. I give it a B-.

Has: I found His Risk To Take a much tighter story than the first book in the series, and although there were similar issues with the ending and decision by Ruby, I enjoyed how it ended which was much more satisfactory. I think Tessa Bailey is one of the best debut writers who has an engaging voice for me this year and I think she will have a great future.
The smoking hot love scenes and fun and flirty banter made His Risk To Take a sexy and enjoyable read! I also give it a B-

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Joint Review: His Risk to Take by Tessa Bailey is a post from: The Book Pushers | Book Reviews | Book Chatter

Where did you get the book: E-arc from Publisher
Publisher: Bantam
Release Date: Out now

For Damien, our obsession is a game. For me, it is fiercely, blindingly, real.

Damien Stark’s need is palpable—his need for pleasure, his need for control, his need for me. Beautiful and brilliant yet tortured at his core, he is in every way my match.

I have agreed to be his alone, and now I want him to be fully mine. I want us to possess each other beyond the sweetest edge of our ecstasy, into the deepest desires of our souls. To let the fire that burns between us consume us both.

But there are dark places within Damien that not even our wildest passion can touch. I yearn to know his secrets, yearn for him to surrender to me as I have surrendered to him. But our troubled pasts will either bind us close . . . or shatter us completely.

*Blurb taken from Goodreads*

Claim Me starts a few days after the events of last year’s, Release Me, which follows the characters of billionaire hot honcho, Damian Stark, and tech wiz graduate, Nikki Fairchild, who have embarked on a sizzling affair. The painting deal that Damian commissioned, which Nikki is modelling for in return for a million dollars, is just about to expire but this isn’t the end of their affair. Damian and Nikki are still feeling the boundaries of their relationship, and in this book the focus is more about their relationship as well as their pasts being explored more fully.

Although this is another billionaire type hero who has a tortured past, the heroine helps him face it whilst dealing with her own issues, and Claim Me continues with these themes. And this is what I really liked about the book because unlike the first book, which only hinted or covered their past history, it really delved more fully into their problems and emotions. It really added more depth, especially how it tied in with the sexual tension and focus of the story.

I also felt the love scenes were so much hotter and intense than the previous book, and it definitely heated up the tension and the emotional intensity between Nikki and Damian. I really liked that while this did have a BDSM overtone, it really fits well with the psychology and emotional aspects of the characters. In particular for Nikki who uses pain and was cutting herself as a way to ground her feelings and anxiety from being controlled without her consent by her overbearing mother. But I really liked how Nikki learns to trust and accept the sexual games that are teasing and passionate and allows her to channel her own fears and worries when she is about to slip again and it really worked. For me, her character stands out so much more than Damian who wasn’t that interesting or developed.

Her relationship with Damian deepens with more trust, and he confides more about his own past and abuse that was hinted in the first book which ties in with the burgeoning murder mystery which now threatens their happiness. I did find this sub-plot dragged the pace of the story. The other plot concerning the scandal of the secret deal of the painting coming out, which Nikki was being paid a million dollars by Damian to pose nude – and the paparazzi following their every move was a bit tedious, and again Nikki has problems with her new job. I did get the sense that Nikki would launch her own business and go it alone. I felt this didn’t really make sense because once again she had co-workers who disliked her and linked with Damian. I wished she did attempt to go it alone because this would have been more interesting because this all felt forced and boring because it didn’t add anything to the story or moved it forward.

While I liked the focus on the characters and their feelings, there wasn’t much impetus or momentum in the plot and it really felt this is middle book syndrome especially with the focus on the side subplots about Nikki’s fallout on the painting scandal which really wasn’t that scandalous for me. I am looking forward to seeing how Damian’s past will pan out and be resolved, and while I wished there was more about his character but it is hard because it’s in Nikki’s POV.

I enjoyed this second installment of J. Kenner’s erotic trilogy, although nothing really much happens because the pace was more explorative of the characters which heightened the romance instead of the main plot. The love scenes were sizzling and while I wished there was more in the story development, this was a satisfactory and enjoyable read. I am definitely looking forward to the next book to see how this will be resolved and I hope it will be explosive!

I give Claim Me a C+

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Review: Claim Me by J. Kenner is a post from: The Book Pushers | Book Reviews | Book Chatter

Playing for a night…or for keeps?

Jewelry designer Tatiana Belikov may have matured enough to curb her impulsive nature, but wickedness is still her best accessory. When family troubles bring her to Las Vegas and face-to-face with the man who knows all her darkest desires, resisting temptation is futile. A night of no-holds-barred sin? Jackpot.

Once Wyatt Caine had nothing to offer Tatiana except his heart, but time has changed his fortunes. Now he’s the king of vice, and the king always gets what he wants. Especially when all he wants is her, all grown up and ready to play every dirty game he can devise.

They ignite like fireworks on the Strip, blazing hot enough to melt the best intentions. But their roll in the sheets turns into a roll of the dice, and when morning comes, Wyatt and Tatiana are left wondering whether to walk away…or go all in.

Game on.

*Blurb from Goodreads*

MinnChica: I adore Alisha Rai’s writing style, so when I saw the blurb and read an excerpt from this book, I was super excited. I love my BDSM-esque books, and Tatiana and Wyatt have some super hot and kinky love scenes. Rai did everything so wonderfully in this book, my only negative reaction was the length, especially given the fact this is going to be a trilogy. I am not a big fan of the new trend in romance where a single couple’s romance is stretched out over the course of three books, but I’m anxious to see more of Wyatt and Tatiana.

E: When I heard that Rai was coming out with a self-published book I was curious. When I was able to get an idea of what Play with Me was about I was even more excited. After reading the excerpt I couldn’t wait to get my hands on this. Like MinnChica said Rai provided everything I was looking for. The past history and angst it caused. The still smoldering attraction. The intense love scenes. And a good argument or two. While I prefer reading the complete arc for a couple if the central theme is romance in one book, Rai did complete this novella without leaving a cliffhanger. I am certainly anticipating the next two installments but without the intense frustration that this technique can sometimes cause.

MinnChica: I always love second chance love stories, and I think this one might be on my list of top five favorites. Not only did Tatiana and Wyatt get a second chance at love, they were also first loves with each other, so it was wonderful to see how they both approached their relationship different from the past. I loved that they both realized how good they had it, how much the valued one another’s company (and kinks!). I wasn’t a huge fan of the sub-plot with Tatiana’s long lost half brother, but I hope that we do get to see them develop that relationship more as the series progresses.

E: For me second chance love stories have to be done well. If there was too much bitterness and angst during the break-up I have a hard time believing the reunion. I also need the characters to have grown and matured during their time apart or I have a hard time believing the relationship has any possibility of lasting. But when they are done right, and Rai did it right, they are so very good. Each had grown during the time apart and become successful in their own ways. They had fond memories of each other that weren’t drenched in bitterness. And those memories went beyond smexytimes into everything else that makes a relationship. At first I struggled with Tatiana rushing to her brother’s rescue but then I thought about my bond with my siblings and how I would feel if I had the chance to develop that bond for the first time in my life. After that it didn’t bother me as much, especially when I learned that Tatiana could afford to help him out. Like MinnChica, I would like to see their relationship develop as more than a reason to bring Wyatt and Tatiana together.

MinnChica: All in all I enjoyed Rai first self-published novella. The characters were fun and obviously passionate about the idea of rekindling their romance. The sexy times were super smokin’ hot, and I loved that the overall kinky themes were something that didn’t require a label on their part. My only gripe about the book is that the length seems a little short, especially if this is going to be made into a trilogy with Wyatt and Tatiana as the ongoing main characters.
I give Play with Me a B

E: I also enjoyed Rai’s entry into self-publishing. Her characters were well built and packed a punch. She provided enough backstory for me to grasp who they were but continued to move the plot forward. Both were unashamed of what they enjoyed and their smexytimes seemed even more precious because they had discovered that enjoyment together years earlier. I do agree with MinnChica that having a trilogy centered around Wyatt and Tatiana made me expect a longer read for each installment. I do look forward to seeing what happens next.
I give Play with Me a B

BP Note: Alisha Rai has graciously agreed to let us give away three digital copies of Play with Me. This is open world wide. To enter leave a comment with your favorite second chance at love book or movie. Winners will be announced on the 30th. Good luck!

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Joint Review & Giveaway – Play with Me by Alisha Rai is a post from: The Book Pushers | Book Reviews | Book Chatter

Throughout their eight-year marriage, U.S. Air Force Captain Liam “Dash” Christiansen and his wife, Sunita, stayed strong through long separations. However Sunny’s new job as a high-profile legal advisor puts a severe strain on their enduring bond.

Warning: Time to put the kidding aside. Although 100% consensual between a husband and wife, this book contains violent sex that, in some scenes, will appear forced. Readers sensitive to rape scenarios should proceed with caution.
This blurb came from the author’s website.

What happens when your married life falls into a rut, you no longer talk about anything with meaning, the person you married has been buried under a mask, you are buried under a mask, and you make a move to exit the situation? Porter explores the answers to those questions in their latest Vegas Top Guns installment. The answers to those questions emerge at various moments throughout Hard Way starting with the very first actual discussion that quickly turned physical between Dash and Sunny. That encounter initially made me uncomfortable but as I continued to read through the scene, I picked up the nuances between them and saw that while not planned there was an element of brutal honesty and a willingness to participate. This was the first time in years that the two of them communicated without shields. The journey that Dash and Sunny took through this story made me sad, uncomfortable, happy, in awe, relieved, exhausted, tense and touched.

Dash grew up trying to meet the expectations of his father, career Air Force officer, and never quite succeeding. That turned into a lifetime of trying to do or be what he thought others expected while hiding what he really thought or felt. Over time and physical distance from Sunny, the same mask he showed to others he showed to her. The strain of holding everything in while trying to meet perceived expectations took the joy out of life, so only when alone did Dash relax and be himself for a few moments. During their marriage Dash was physically separated from Sunny on different occasions because of combat deployments. Now that Dash is a member of the 64th Aggressor Squadron and not really deploying, it is his turn to stay home as Sunny started a different branch of her career.

Sunny was a lawyer and highly trained in martial arts. As a result she was accustomed to distancing herself using words in a confrontation but allowing her body to speak through violence. Her new job working for the local federal representative required a significant amount of time working in DC. She felt that she was not receiving the same level of emotional support from Dash during her time away as she provided during his deployments. She also knew that the Dash was missing or hiding an integral part of himself from her. In frustration from their growing emotional distance, she developed what could be called an office-husband. They decided to pursue a relationship after Sunny initiated divorce proceedings. To me her reluctance to both start a physical relationship and to move out immediately following their “discussion” told me that she was hoping deep down that they could save their marriage.

Neither Sunny nor Dash said exactly what they were thinking out of fear. Fear that they would irrevocably hurt the other person and fear that the other person’s response would permanently end all chance of reconciliation. This meant they did not trust each other with tenderness or gentle touches because that left openings for rejection and more pain. Yet the very intensity and physicality of their sexual encounters demonstrated an immense amount of trust. I thought this was spotlighted in one scene perfectly when Sunny used her safe word and Dash immediately stopped. After Sunny fixed the issue she went back to a very similar position giving her permission for them to continue. To me that right there said that at a very basic/elemental level Dash and Sunny trusted each other.

The way Dash and Sunny worked through their anger and mistrust was certainly not something that would work for everyone but at the core was communication. Sunny learned just how much Dash had paid attention to her and things she found important. She also learned that Dash had other dreams besides what he was doing. Dash learned that Sunny was never comfortable with how she was treated as a military spouse. He also learned that she needed obvious proof that he was paying attention to her. Each also had to admit things about themselves and how to share their faults with the other.

Porter really put me through an emotional wringer and made me think a lot after I finished reading Hard Way. Once again they have tackled a kink that isn’t widely accepted and paired it with an emotionally difficult situation to take the reader on quite a journey. While a work of fiction, Porter ensured that the reader could see that the encounters throughout Dash and Sunny’s relationship were consensual which was key to my enjoyment. With each installment of Vegas Top Guns Porter seems to be increasing the level of emotional commitment and depth between their characters.

I give Hard Way an B
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Review – Hard Way (Vegas Top Guns #4) by Katie Porter is a post from: The Book Pushers | Book Reviews | Book Chatter

Jace, Ash, and Gabe: three of the wealthiest, most powerful men in the country. They’re accustomed to getting anything they want. Anything at all. For Jace, it’s a woman whose allure takes him completely by surprise…

Jace Crestwell, Ash McIntyre, and Gabe Hamilton have been best friends and successful business partners for years. They’re powerful, they’re imposing, they’re irresistibly sexy, and Jace and Ash share everything—including their women.

When they meet Bethany, Jace begins to feel things he’s never experienced before: jealousy, and a powerful obsession that threatens him, overwhelms him—and excites him beyond control.

Jace isn’t sharing Bethany—with anyone. He’s determined to be the only man in her life, and it’s jeopardizing a lifelong friendship with Ash. Bethany will be his and his alone. Even if it means turning his back on his best friend.

This blurb came from Goodreads.

E: After reading Rush the first installment of Banks’ Breathless trilogy I decided I was more interested in Jace and Ash than I was in Gabe. I heard from other people that the characters and dynamic were very different in this second installment so I decided to give it a try. While I did enjoy Fever much more than I enjoyed Rush I have come to the conclusion that Banks’ contemporary writing voice is not working for me.

Has: I also felt the same way about Rush because I really disliked Gabe’s character but I agree that the characters of Jace and Ash held more interest for me and I was looking forward to see how Fever panned out for me. I also agree that I did enjoy Fever more but it also had some issues, which was primarily about the heroine, who I found to be one dimensional, and it affected the development of the romance for me. But I did like Jace’s character, and the fact he really fell head over heels for Bethany which is something that makes me melt when I am reading a romance. But I am leaning towards feeling the same way for this series, because while this is a crackilicious trope, the development of some characters and plot points isn’t ticking my boxes.

E: I actually didn’t have too many issues with either Jace or Bethany separately but I did have concerns with their relationship dynamic. No I am not talking about the D/S aspect and the extent to which it stretched throughout their relationship but more in terms of the fallback positions each took during times of high stress. Bethany’s abusive background built in a lifetime response to escape either through drugs or by physically leaving while Jace defaulted to verbally attacking and accusing Bethany of doing the worst possible action without determining the situation. Bethany’s only alternative to Jace once she entered the relationship was to go back to the streets and shelters from a taste of privilege. Jace still had his place, family and money. Bethany did start to leave after each of Jace’s explosions but he continually expressed remorse and then did it again. To me when someone has started trusting and believing again to have their past or other nonexistant actions thrown in their face by the very person who built that trust is not the sign of a healthy relationship.

Has: This was the main issue I had with the book and the romance itself. The power dynamics between Bethany and Jace was very unequal, and while I liked the heads-over-heels element and the fairy-tale aspect which really fits the tone of the story. There was no real expansion on how Jace fell in love so deeply with Bethany, and I wanted more of an emotional development on that rather than the sex and the D/S factor of their relationship.

I also totally agree with you about the pushing and fro-ing with the trust issue, and it added to the unequal dynamics in their relationship, especially since Bethany was homeless and had no power. Even though I think Maya Banks did try to state the message that Bethany did have the upper hand of their relationship because Jace was vulnerable and open to her. I didn’t really believe that because for me he held the upper hand in all aspects of her life and I wasn’t keen on the fact he wanted to dominate her outside the bedroom even though she was willing and they did consent with each other with each decision.

E: Like you Has, I had a hard time believing that Bethany had the upper hand even though she was willingly to go back to streets instead of lose the grounds she had made personally it seemed all to easy for Jace to get mad and break Bethany down.

Jace was used to getting what he wanted, when he wanted it. Yes, he did have to take care of his younger sister unexpectedly but he had all of the advantages of privilege. This was evident each time he introduced Bethany to a new situation and expected her to just fit in. He did not pay any consideration to how foreign each was or that he was subtly undermining her confidence in her ability to fit in through his words and actions. He went from insta-lust to what he called love threaded through with jealousy and possession. I never had the feeling that he learned any lessons about respecting and caring for every aspect of Bethany, especially given their D/S relationship outside of their sexual acts.

Has: I definitely agree, but I also felt Bethany a wallpaper protagonist for me, she reflected and acted on the desires of the men in her life and I didn’t get a sense of her character. I also wished that she would develop her own sense of being and self, and we didn’t get to see that although there was a hint in the end when she wanted to go to college and do something. But that was too little, too late from because there was no real transition from the beginning of the book to the end to show that.

I liked the fairytale overtones of the story, which basically is totally perfect for this trope of the rich hero and poor heroine type romance. But I didn’t think the BDSM and D/S themes fits well with this story. Although I really found this series was refreshing that the kink was not due to any tortured pasts or abuse which is a huge trope for similar books. But I did find it a niggle, on the reasons why Jace and Ash’s predilections to sharing a woman was dismissed by Jace so quickly even though it was a huge part of their sex lives. And I was quite surprised by this because it just felt that this was an added kink to spice up the series. This is a reason why I am not that keen on menage romances these days because its more about the sex than the emotions. And for a good erotic romance to work for me – it must be just as strong with the emotional tone as well as the sexual elements.

E: That is a very good point. The fact that Jace didn’t want to share Bethany from the very beginning was supposed to indicate that she was his one and only instead of just part of the line. While I appreciate the attempt at distinguishing Bethany, since sharing women was such an integral part of the friendship between Jace and Ash it seemed to me that sharing was maybe something that Jace did for Ash instead of it being an equal enjoyment.

I did prefer Fever over Rush but like I said in the beginning I think Banks’ contemporary voice at least in this trope is not working for me. I was not able to fully enter the reading experience or to believe in the relationship and its HEA. I thought that the heroine’s past and her drive to overcome it was a nice change from the typical heroine in this particular trope. Banks did address some of the issues involved in drug abuse, the ugly side of foster care, and life on the streets/shelters which again is usually avoided or glossed over in contemporary romances unless h/h is part of the system. While I found those refreshing the overall story really didn’t work for me and as a result I do not anticipate finishing this trilogy.

I give Fever a C-

Has: I also felt that Fever was much stronger than Rush, but I am with you about the tropes not working for me in this case. The power dynamics especially for a D/S themed book failed which affected the overall romance especially with the characterisation. And while I did enjoy some elements of the story, it didn’t win me over fully.

I also give Fever a C-

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Joint Review – Fever (Breathless #2) by Maya Banks is a post from: The Book Pushers | Book Reviews | Book Chatter

Coming in print in March 5, 2013! From NEW YORK TIMES andUSA TODAY Bestselling Author Beth Kery.

Because You Are Mine, an exciting tale of erotic obsession.

When they met, the instant attraction was unmistakable…a purely, exquisitely physical charge. Succumbing to their desires is the easy part. But when passion opens the door to an intimacy neither has known, can a man known for being unbendable learn to love?

*Blurb taken from Goodreads*

I’ve been waiting for a while to get the omnibus edition of Because You Are Mine because I’m not a real fan of serials, and I like to glom a book in full without any cliffhangers. And I do like the premise of the cool billionaire hero who falls hard for his heroine. It’s a crackilicious theme for me, even though I do feel the trope feels saturated in erotic romance. But I liked the approach Kery took with her characters and plot in this book, and the erotic elements heightened the sexual tension

Within their first meeting, struggling artist, Francesca, and the elusive billionaire, Ian, are both drawn together when she won a commission to paint for him. Their attraction is palpable and filled with tension, and I liked the fact that in a previous painting she created a few years back, she captured a scene which Ian was depicted in–unbeknownst to her. It allowed her to connect and capture a private moment, which made a dent in Ian’s emotional armour. But the course of their relationship isn’t as smooth because Ian’s inner demons and secrets has placed a barrier which Francesca is adamant in breaking through.

Although the premise is not new, especially with the virgin/ingenue heroine and the tormented billionaire hero, I did like how Beth Kery uses this trope in exploring the power play between the two characters. Whilst Ian is in control in the bedroom, it is Francesca who is dominant in many ways–breaking through his emotional and mental barriers. She also challenges Ian’s self-control, sexually and emotionally, and I am a complete sucker for this factor in a book. Who can’t resist a hero who is cool and detached, but completely losing control in the face of his heroine. I liked that this was illustrated in Ian’s form of BDSM which Kery highlights.

I also loved that Francesca, even though she starts out as a virgin and had no real interest in men at the beginning of the book, was very open and willing to explore the BDSM elements with Ian. And I liked that she was no simpering missish heroine who blanches at being challenged and being pushed into the darker edge of sex and desire. But what I really liked about their romance, is that they both learned and discovered new aspects of each other.

One of my favourite scenes is when Ian starts to teach Francesca how to fence, and it definitely reflected their on-going relationship with Ian challenging her emotionally and sexually. Yet at the same time she teaches him to learn and open up from his closed self and it gave their relationship an equal footing. There is also another scene when Ian finds out that Francesca is unable to drive, and encourages her to learn and to get her licence. This really summed up the book for me because it did connect with the power play theme of control and being in the ‘driver seat’. It also allowed Francesca to open up and embrace herself, especially from her past because of her past weight and being the focus of bullying. However, I do have to say that I was skeptical she was able to pass in such a short time let alone passing her test for a motorcycle license.

But I really liked the themes of discovering and embracing sexuality, and letting it be a part of healing and accepting yourself–as well as using it as a catalyst to opening up emotional and mental dams which both Ian and Francesca had.

Nonetheless, there were a few issues I had with the book, and it was the pacing. I definitely felt this was a serial because every few chapter excerpts affected the flow of the narrative, which stuttered the pace of the story. I also found Ian’s character hard to warm up to, even though I knew he was utterly in love with Francesca, and his own emotional breakthrough happened at the end of the story which was linked to his tormented past with his mother. I found that this was rushed and not as developed as I would have liked. I wished there was more time to expand on this because I think the themes linked to his past would have made his character more relatable. And I would have liked more insight especially with his past and how that affected his sense of control, it really felt the story and his characterisation only got going for me but then ended pretty abruptly.

Because You Are Mine is a solid erotic romance with the popular trope of the billionaire hero and innocent heroine who breaks through his walls. Although this may not offer nothing new within the genre ,it definitely had some of the hottest love scenes I’ve read that included BDSM. And despite the issues I had with the pacing and the rushed ending – I really  did enjoy the book because the erotic elements were well developed and helped to heighten the romantic tension and added layers to the themes of power and control. That for me is a good sign of a BDSM toned romance!

I give Because You Are Mine a C+

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Review: Because You Are Mine (Full complete novel) by Beth Kery is a post from: The Book Pushers | Book Reviews | Book Chatter

Something sexy is afoot at Rackham’s School for Young Ladies
Half-faerie, half-elf Hans Winter broke the heart of the wrong princess. Cursed to live as a statue at a school for human girls, only true love—and true bravery—can free him.



A kiss seems like the last thing these lonely souls would share, until one night in the cemetery where Hans stands trapped, Fate brings stone and flesh together . . .
This blurb came from the author’s website.

Has: I am a fan of Emma Holly’s books, because she can sure write erotic romance which are hot and very sexy. But I have to say I am really drawn to her fantasy erotic romances, because she combines imagination and heat in a delectable way. Winter’s Tale is set in her Hidden world, where the fae and other magical beings exist albeit hidden in the modern world. Winter’s Tale is a bit of a departure though because like the title suggests, it is more of a fairy-talesque take which has elements of other fairy-tales which I enjoyed. December Worth, is a young girl who is sent to live in a variety of boarding schools, because she rejects to be conventional from her more restrictive parents, And in the latest school she is sent to – she encounters a mysterious statue of a man who is be-spelled in a curse and he holds a promise of true love which she holds the key to unlocking.

I found this was a cute and sexy read and I loved the fairy tale tone and feel of the story. I also liked December’s character, who was rebellious, snarky and fun and I wished this story was longer because I would have liked to see more of her in action. Winter’s Tale was also slightly different from Emma Holly’s other books, because it had a dreamy like quality and although I enjoyed the tone because it did fit the story really well. Although I wished there was a lot more expanding the plot, especially in developing the romance which was rushed for me.

E: Like Has I have also been a huge fan of Holly for a very long time. She has the ability to provide a high heat level while developing her characters, their world, and carrying forward a plot. The combination of those things is what has kept her on my autobuy list. Holly does not shy away from including paranormal aspects or characters in her stories. Even when they are melded into a more familiar earth-like world she ensures that they are noticeably not human. The distinction makes her worlds even more solid to my imagination. Winter’s Tale is set in a different part of Holly’s Hidden series world and gave me a different perspective than that of the shapeshifters.

While I enjoyed Winter’s Tale, I also wished it was longer. December’s character was so much fun. Watching her transform from spoiled, bored, too smart for her own good to someone who took fairy-tales so seriously that she risked her life was a lot of fun. I just wish it was more gradual. I really enjoyed December’s inner monologue because it provided a lot of insight into her character and why she could possibly be the one to break Hans’ curse. I also wanted to know what happened to some of the students and instructors, their pasts and futures because they seemed stuck at the school for a particular reason. I was really intrigued with this particular setting and saw the potential for some branches or just some fleshing out in the supporting cast I wanted a longer story.

Has: I agree! I think there was huge potential for exploring that aspect. I liked the New Adult feel because it was very much about coming of age and exploring sexuality especially with December because she basically grew up and matured over the course of the book. But I was disappointed that this was glossed over because the back-story was interesting and even though fairy-tales have insta-love – I found it hard to believe that Hans and December had true love especially when it tied in with breaking of the curse, because of the story’s length which was so short. I would have also liked to see more of Han’s back story especially on how he got cursed and would have loved to see more of the fae world because it would have added more depth to the story.

E: Yes I was more able to by December’s love because Hans was the first person who actually saw her value but I wasn’t as sold on Hans’ love. During his story to December while I understood that he had been wronged I wasn’t sure that his time as a statue taught him how to love. Hans was not in a very good position throughout most of the book but I did enjoy how he was able to use his mind to work with December to prove to her that he was real not just a dream. I also liked the fact that he valued December as more than a chance at freedom. He was also pretty intent on ensuring she enjoyed herself **grin** despite his years of frustration. Hans had some real potential as a character that I hope we get to see in a later book.

Has: Yes! I found this was my main gripe about the story, because we never really got to see how he felt about her and when they were together, it was either facing danger or making love, and I would loved more of the emotional aspect being developed. And unlike December’s character which really stood out for me, I found Hans a tad undeveloped because I never got a real sense of his characterisation. But I think this was due to the short length of the story, and their scenes together was sizzling and I liked the underlying sweetness in the tone as well when he was with her. I think because there was so much promise and potential if this was expanded this would have been a stellar story.

Overall, despite the short length and some undeveloped factors, I did enjoy Winter’s Tale, because it was a sweet romance with erotically charged scenes which added to the dreamy and fairy-talesque feel and tone. Which added a lush sexiness to the romance – I really hope we get to revisit those characters, because December stood out for me because she was such a fun heroine!

I give Winter’s Tale a C+

E: Winter’s Tale provided a very entertaining glimpse into how capricious both humans and fae can be. It showcased December who was the poster child for difficult and let her shine. It had magic, conspiracy, hot smexytimes, the power of love, and a seriously creepy boarding school. I enjoyed reading Winter’s Tale even though I wish it was longer so I could have enjoyed the journey they characters took as they matured. Holly remains on my auto-buy list because she consistently delivers a story I can lose myself in regardless of the length. I look forward to seeing what she comes up with next in her Hidden world.

I give Winter’s Tale a B-

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Joint Review – Winter’s Tale (Hidden #3.5) by Emma Holly is a post from: The Book Pushers | Book Reviews | Book Chatter

Publish Date: March 19th

How we got this book: e-ARC from author

She refuses to be owned.

Alexa Parrino escaped a life of servitude and survived danger on the streets to become one of the most trusted, influential people in Sector Four, where the O’Kanes rule with a hedonistic but iron fist. Lex has been at the top for years, and there’s almost nothing she wouldn’t do for the gang…and for its leader. Lie, steal, kill—but she bows to no one, not even Dallas O’Kane.

He’ll settle for nothing less.

Dallas fought long and hard to carve a slice of order out of the chaos of the sectors. Dangers both large and small threaten his people, but it’s nothing he can’t handle. His liquor business is flourishing, and new opportunities fuel his ambition. Lex could help him expand his empire, something he wants almost as much as he wants her. And no one says no to the king of Sector Four.

Falling into bed is easy, but their sexual games are anything but casual. Attraction quickly turns to obsession, and their careful dance of heady dominance and sweet submission uncovers a need so deep, so strong, it could crush them both.

*Blurb from Goodreads*

 

 

MinnChica: I’m always on the lookout for post-apocalyptic romance. When one of my favorite genres meets my favorite writing duo and they add in some super smokin’ smutty themes, it’s a match made in heaven! The second book in the Beyond series is just as hot as the first, and just as sweet. How Rocha is able to combine the right amount of smut with romance to create such amazing stories is beyond me! I was so excited to see the big bad Dallas brought to his knees by Lex, and it was EPIC.

E: Rocha hit all of my right buttons with Beyond Shame, the first book in the Beyond series so I have been looking forward to the sequel.  As Rocha provided snippets and mini-excerpts along the way my excitement continued to grow.  I am pleased to say that the wait was certainly worth it.  Watching the actual dynamics between Lex and Dallas not to mention their continual sexual and emotional tension *fans self* was absolutely amazing.  Yet it remained sweet, smutty, and set in a fascinating violent post-apocalyptic world.

Has: I so totally agree! I was looking forward to Beyond Control ever since I read the first book, because I was intrigued on how Lex and Dallas would finally get together despite their tensions over their issues. And I was so pleased this lived up to the promise because this was an intense, angsty and very sexually charged romance which I inhaled in one gulp. While Beyond Shame was like a tasty entree this was like a delicious main dish which delved into the world-building and characterization and with real depth and development to the on-going plot threads.

Thoughts on the Hero

Has: Oh Dallas, is a character who I love to wack something crack hard over his  head. But at the same time, he’s such a well fleshed out and multi-layered hero with flaws that he has become one of my all time favourites which Kit Rocha/Moira Rogers has ever written. I loved we got to see his more vulnerable side of him in this book, especially when it involved Lex and how she draws that aspect out of him. It was beyond sweet, beyond passionate and definitely beyond sensual with their scenes together.

I also loved the elements of the political wrangling and posturing Dallas had to be a part of in protecting his people as well as his ambitions which added a lot of nuance and realism to his character.

Lou: I was so intrigued by Dallas in the first book. I wasn’t a huge fan of Noelle and Jasper in their book, but Beyond Control was so damn good. Dallas has an intensity to him that made the book so fraught with tension. He’s wanted Lex for so long but she’s pushed him away. I thought their romance was very romantic and their connection incredible. He had to straddle being the leader of the Kanes whilst treating Lex as an equal.

E: Dallas oh man! Talk about hard, intense, dedicated, controlled and yet lonely and driven.  By the time I finished Beyond Shame I really wanted to know what made him tick and why Lex had so much influence on him.  Seeing the other aspects of his character both within his relationship with Lex, the political posturing with the other Sector leaders, and how he interacted with members of the O’Kanes was brought into sharp relief.  He showed so much about where he got his stability but also how Lex was his major vulnerability.

I really liked how he fought against his instincts to protect Lex through controlling her movements and caging her in because he knew that would only destroy her and any chance they ever had.  Even with his insights he was still clueless at times about Lex and how her mind worked.  It was good to see that he wasn’t omnipotent and had to learn how to apologize and do some groveling. 

MinnChica: Ahhh Dallas…. What to say about the man who has it all, and whatever he wants, is laid at his feet. I love that he is a total hardass, and yet has a sweet side as well. I enjoyed the fact that he had such a depth to him that I never imagined. For all his kinky ways in both the first book and this one, he also had a strict code that he lived by for his partners. I thought it was kinda endearing to him. Plus, given his total badass nature, his willingness to do anything and everything for Lex was so awesome to read.

Thoughts on the Heroine

Has: I loved Lex in Beyond Shame, I love her upfrontness, courage and she did not take any shit from anyone even with Dallas who is her weak-point. She was the perfect foil and partner for him and that she was person who helped to cement the O’Kanes and in a lot of ways, she is their heart. This was such an emotionally intense book and I was exhausted but in a good way reading on how they got together because they played high stakes in a harsh world. And even though it was such a dangerous and stark world they are living in, the romance between Dallas and Lex was truly sweet and vulnerable and I loved how they drew aspects of that and made it a strength because it helped to ground them which is something they both realised in the book.

Lou: Lex is an incredible character. Her confidence about her sexuality was so empowering, and I loved that she didn’t roll over for Dallas. Yet Lex and Dallas were romantics at heart. I’m not a huge fan of menages and orgies, but Kit Rocha has created a world where everything feels natural. Lex has a strong relationship with Noelle from the first book, including a sexual one, but in Beyond Control we see just how much Lex and Dallas care about each other, and how their love is very personal and private. That’s what was missing for me in the first book. I didn’t get any connection from Noelle and Jasper.

E: Lex was so complicated.  I really liked how she broke away from her past and made herself into a completely different openly powerful woman.  Yet she was also determined to ensure she didn’t leave any reason for Dallas to hold her past over her head.  Seeing her go back and confront some key people from that past was also very insightful.  I loved how she made the first move and practically dared Dallas to say or do something about it.  Of course I don’t think she was quite ready for what he did.  Her vulnerability to Dallas and how she gave him as many chances as she could without losing herself was amazing to watch.  And then to see everyone bond to her and basically ensure Dallas knew he screwed up showed just how much people appreciated everything she had done for them.

Lex showed in so many ways that she knew what Dallas had to do for the O’Kanes and what she was willing to do to help others.  But she also needed Dallas to continue to treasure her as a partner after they became lovers in truth not just as his lover.  Watching her start to trust Dallas not just more than any other man but with herself was amazing because so much was at risk.  If I didn’t already really like her as a character I would have fallen completely for her in Beyond Control.

MinnChica: I fell for Lex the moment she stepped onto the page in the first book. She was a free spirit, she loved life and there were so many different aspects to her facade that I couldn’t wait to delve in and find out more. As her backstory unraveled, I loved her even more. She was strong and given the way she was raised, she didn’t let life beat her down either. She fought for what she wanted to fight for, and also took every opportunity to help out any other woman in need. She has a soft spot a mile wide, and for that alone I adored her to pieces!

Favorite Scene

Has: I can’t spoil this scene because it was part of the ending and climax – but like Lou says it was linked with when they made love. But I think this scene really showed, Lex was not afraid to go into the heart of danger and to save people who she promised to protect. It also made Dallas realise how much she was important to him even above the O’Kanes and I think that was a turning point on their relationship. 

Lou: My favourite scene has to be at the end where Lex and Dallas make love. There was so much intensity and love between them, and it came across as very romantic. We see Dallas’ vulnerability with his relationship with Lex where he wants her for himself and admits his jealousy.

E: Hmm so many scenes I liked.  The love scene that both Has and Lou mention was a wonderful scene.  I think the one I will pick for this is when they are having a discussion and Dallas asks if Lex trusts him.  She responds that she trusts him more than any other man and Dallas said that he would work with that but he wasn’t stopping with that.  To me that cemented exactly how much he wanted Lex not just for smexytimes but as a whole even if he didn’t know what that whole consisted of.

Of course I also loved when a certain individual received what he was due!

MinnChica: Oh man… trying to find just one scene that spoke to me above all the others…. I think I might have to go with the scene where Lex sees her sister again after all the years apart. It was such a sweet and heartbreaking moment. Lex gets the chance to see her family, and at the same time she also opens her eyes a little to just how different life is for everyone. Despite her hatred for the way she was raised, she also sees that the life she left behind wasn’t as awful as she thought. That her sister was happy and thriving. It might not have been until later that Lex really let it sink it, but that moment resonated with me.

Dislike about book

Has: I don’t have any real dislike about the book, because the pacing, side characterisations and the ongoing plot-lines were all solid and developed.

Lou: I suppose my only dislike of the book was involving the secondary characters, where I thought Ace and Rachel were starting to become close, when suddenly a new male character appears, which means triangle. I’m looking forward to their book but I’m unsure of how it’s going to play out. 

E: I don’t really have any complaints.  I just want more.

MinnChica: Ah man… is too much sex a complaint? No, than nothing here either!

Any other misc. thoughts along with grade

Has: I think Beyond Control really cements this series for me. I loved that the world-building which was explored much fully, which was my main gripe of the previous book. But in this book, you had political intrigue and wrangling, a heart-wrenching and tender romance which was filled with sexually charged love scenes (you will definitely need a fan when reading this book) and solid characterisation. I can’t wait for the next book, which will feature Six and Bren which promises to be just as good.

I give Beyond Control an A- 

Lou: Beyond Control really delves deeper into the world building, and the romance for me had a deep emotional connection that I could believe in. My problem with the first book was that it was mostly sex without any depth going into the world building. Beyond Control is much different and goes into the details of the gangs and sectors, and we see the different sides to Dallas and Lex.

I give Beyond Control a B.

E: I thoroughly enjoyed Beyond Control. I was able to see into Dallas and Lex who already had a complicated relationship.  I also got to visit the other O’Kanes and see how they were progressing as well as some hints for future books.  I also liked the glimpse of the other Sector leaders and their personalities.  Some clashes coming up I can imagine.  Rocha did a wonderful job on this installment and it was well worth the wait.  I am looking forward to the next one.

I give Beyond Control an A.

MinnChica: I really enjoyed the second installment of this series. I love the nitty and gritty world that Rocha created, and the chance to see even more if it in this book was perfect. I’m so anxious to see where we go from here, what happens with the new sector under Dallas’ control, and how some of the secondary characters will find their ever after. I love that all the characters stand out as ones I can’t wait to read next, and have fallen head over heels for this series.

I give Beyond Control an A-

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Joint Review – Beyond Control by Kit Rocha is a post from: The Book Pushers | Book Reviews | Book Chatter

Publisher: Berkley/Penguin

Release date: Out now

Part 1 in new 8 part serial.

The next serial sensation from Beth Kery, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of Because You Are Mine.
New York Times bestselling author Beth Kery’s blistering new novel of a man and woman bound by the scandalous secrets of the past–and by the sexual hunger that still fuels their uncontrollable desires…
Restaurateur and self-exiled heir Lucien Lenault’s first look at the breathtaking young chef trainee for his trendy Chicago restaurant is a shock. She’s Elise Martin, daughter of a wealthy French fashion designer. She’s also the holder of a secret that could explode his carefully laid plans.
Notorious for her flagrant exhibitionism, and for flouting the respectable façade of her aristocratic background, the coquine’s wild streak shocked most people. Not Lucien. He was tempted by it. It was a deliriously punishable offense as far as Lucien was concerned. But taking on Elise is more than a game. She’s a catastrophe waiting to happen, an inferno that’s burned many a lover. Lucien isn’t most men, however, and he won’t allow her to manipulate him. In order to control the defiant beauty–in order to see her submit–he’s going to have to willingly walk in the flames…

More to come. Don’t miss When I’m With You, Part II, available 3/12

*Blurb taken from Goodreads*

Last year I was really intrigued with Beth Kery’s Because You Are Mine serial last–and I’m not a huge fan of serials because I hate waiting for the next installment, especially if there’s a cliffhanger.

I really enjoy Kery’s voice and she sure can write hot and steamy scenes with engaging romances. I planned to pick up and review the first book when it came out in an omnibus edition (which was released on March the 5th). However, when the chance to review the serial spin-off, When We Touch (When I’m With You Part 1) came up, I thought I would take the plunge.

I did wish I had read the prequel novel because I felt I was missing a lot of nuance within the first few pages, especially with the introduction of the hero, Lucien Sauvage, with his friendship with Ian Noble who is the hero in Because You Are Mine. Yet this was a slight niggle because I was soon immersed into the story of Elise and Lucien.

Elise Martin, is trying to kickstart her chef career in an attempt to create a new life in a new country and away from her past and family. She is shocked to encounter Lucien Sauvage who she shared a memorable encounter a few years back. Lucien is not happy with the sudden reappearance of Elise, and is definitely more perturbed with the effect she still has on him. He’s reluctant to hire her, even though he needs a chef for his successful restaurant. Yet this new chance encounter sets up an opportunity which both Elise and Lucien cannot resist, and they embark on a relationship which promises to be sexually charged and emotionally intense.

I have to admit when I finished this installment I was left wanting because it ended on such an intense moment when Elise and Lucien both agree to have a relationship, and where he introduces her to his world which is not something she fully expected. I was left hanging because it was way too short and I was hankering for more. But I did enjoy the opening and the introduction of the romance. It was one where Lucien would dominate and set up the rules. And like the previous title in this series, this book has overtones of BDSM but I liked the little hints of the power play between Lucien and Elise. It promises to be fun, intense and very very sexy with lots of conflict in store which is my cup of tea!

I give When We Touch (When I’m With You Part 1) a B-

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Review: When I’m With You (When We Touch Part One) by Beth Kery is a post from: The Book Pushers | Book Reviews | Book Chatter

From a “fresh and imaginative” (The Romance Studio) voice in erotic romance come the tales of two women, each daring to challenge the boundaries of the toughest of men…But in these edgy, heated encounters, the greatest thing each woman will risk is her heart.

In “Over the Edge,” after a tragic incident during Ty Hendricks’ last tour of duty, he cut off all connection with anyone he cares about—until a night with Lauren Kincaid draws him reluctantly back into the world. Lauren sees a wounded man in danger of losing everything to his inner demons, but the sensual, no-holds-barred fight for Ty’s soul could cost Lauren her heart.

In “All on the Line,” Abby Simmons fell hard for Lieutenant Sean Winthrop, but he sacrificed their relationship when he deployed to Afghanistan. Now he’s home, full of regrets and intent on winning back the woman he never forgot. Abby gives Sean her body but holds her heart aloof, until one night of pleasure forces her to choose either her U.S. Marine…or life without him, forever.
*Blurb from Goodreads*

These two stories are closely related and flow well together nicely. I enjoyed the crossover between the two novellas, but was pretty disappointed with different aspects of each story.

The first story is about Ty and his inability to cope with being back in the civilian world. His last tour of duty put him in a bad place mentally and emotionally, and he hasn’t figured out how to cope yet. When he meets Lauren, he is looking for someone to have some kinky sex with and forget the next day. What he doesn’t expect is for Lauren to intrigue him enough to deal with his problems.

I like the idea of Ty being the tortured hero, and although he was a huge asshole at times, I still kinda adored him. He was a good guy lost in a bad boy frame of mind. He knew that falling for Lauren would bring him back into the land of the living, and he resisted at all costs. Likewise, Lauren knew that Ty was a gentle and caring guy deep down, and despite his ability to crush her, she knew he would be worth the fight. I admired her tenacity, until get willingness to go back time after time had me scratching my head in wonder.

The angst in this novella was off the charts. Poor Ty didn’t know if he was coming or going, and the level of crap he drug Lauren through was astounding. While I’m not a big fan of the way Calhoun had these two come to a head, I could understand why they put themselves into the situation. For as much as I was not a fan of that scene, I was glad it played out the way it did. My only big beef with this novella was that Ty really screwed up big time with Lauren, and he didn’t have to grovel enough to win her back. After what she went through, I thought he needed to do something bigger and better to win her back.

The second story is a second chance love story, and while I usually love that trope, this novella didn’t work for me at all. Sean is on leave and trying to decide what he wants to do next. He is determined to win back the love of Abby, the one who got away, while thinking about his future. However, Abby had her heart broken by Sean once, and isn’t looking for a repeat performance.

I like Sean. He knew what he wants, where he went wrong in life, and is determined to do anything and everything in his power to win back the woman he loves. If not for him, I would have quit reading this story midway through. Abby, on the other hand, annoyed the dickens out of me! I can understand wanting to protect your heart, but I just couldn’t get behind the way she went about it.

One of my biggest problems with the erotic romance genre is that if seems as if most authors feel the need to add a menage into the story in order to bring a couple together. I don’t understand that mentality, especially when the threesome doesn’t seem to jive with the relationship of the couple. Calhoun did this is one of her short stories not too long ago, and again here with Sean and Abby. The entire scene was ridiculous and didn’t feel as if it had any bearing on their core relationship. It felt like it was added in for cheap thrills, and I hated it. For that reason alone I couldn’t stand this story.

All in all the book was sexy as hell, but had quite a few problems that really got on my nerves. Although there were parts of each story that I liked, it seemed as if there were more problems I didn’t like. If I were to grade each of the stories, I would give the first novella a B- and the second a D. Overall, the two seemed to even out to just a so-so anthology.
I give Uncommon Pleasure a C-

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Review – Uncommon Pleasure by Anne Calhoun is a post from: The Book Pushers | Book Reviews | Book Chatter