Pre-Release Blitz Review with Giveaway: Keystone by Katie Delahanty

Today we have the excerpt blitz for Katie Delahanty’s KEYSTONE! Check out the excerpt and be sure to pre-order your copy of it today!!

Book info:

Title:  Keystone
Author:   Katie Delahanty
Genre:  YA science fiction
Release Date:  January 7th, 2020
Publisher:  Entangled Teen
Source:  ARC received from publisher which did not influence my opinion
My rating:  4.5 stars


Synopsis:
When Ella Karman debuts on the Social Stock Exchange, she finds out life as a high profile “Influencer” isn’t what she expected. Everyone around her is consumed by their rankings, in creating the smoke and mirrors that make them the envy of the world.

But then Ella’s best friend betrays her, her rankings tank, and she loses—everything.

Leaving her old life behind, she joins Keystone, a secret school for thieves, where students are trained to seal everything analog and original because something—or someone—is changing history to suit their needs.

Partnered with the annoyingly hot—and utterly impossible—Garrett Alexander, who has plenty of his own secrets, Ella is forced to return to the Influencer world, while unraveling a conspiracy that began decades ago.

One wrong move and she could lose everything—again. 
 

Pre-Order Your Copy Today:

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Excerpt:

Crawling out of the lake, I sprawl on the beach, sucking in precious air for as long as I dare. Still breathless, I limp into the woods. My temples throb and I long to return to the house and climb into bed, to huddle under the blankets until the shivering stops. Last chance to keep my old life. I could come out of this a survivor. My parents would be so proud… Once the story hit the Networks, my Influencer status would be reinstated—especially now that everyone who knew my family’s secret is…dead.

Isn’t that convenient?

I don’t dwell on who’s behind the explosion. Maybe part of me already knows the truth, but I’m not ready for it. Instead, the final fleeting glimpse I had of my best friend, Deena, her blond hair whipping across her face right before the blast, assaults me.

Doubling over, I swallow the sickness rising my throat, shutting my eyes against her. We weren’t speaking, but she didn’t deserve this. None of them did. Tears bubble down my cheeks. Dropping to my knees, I stare up at the starry sky, an irrevocable ache seeping through me. How can I be in this world without them? Wherever they are, can they see me? The universe is endless, and the stars shine down without even a wink.

A voice arrives on the breeze from the lake, its nearness sobering me. For the plan to work, the world needs to believe I’m dead. But if I stick to the plan I can never go back. That truth should terrify me, but I’m already overwhelmed. Besides, there’s nothing left to go back to. Not without Adam. He was the only one who made me feel like I mattered. Breathing deep, I heave myself to my feet and drag myself deeper into the woods. I have no home. I have to keep going.

The old me would have ordered a car to drive me from Lake Tahoe to the Sequoia National Forest, but the Disconnects offered me refuge on the condition I wouldn’t be tracked. Starting now, I’m invisible. They were supposed to send a guide, but he never showed up, and it’s pure luck I stumble upon the bikes, sneakers, and hooded sweatshirt hidden behind a tree. Taking it as a sign I’ve made the right decision, I yelp. Choking back the cry, I tug the sweatshirt over my dress with shaking hands. In the pocket I find a tube of glittery, gold paint and draw a haphazard zigzag over half my face to disguise my identity from facial-recognition cameras. The mark of a Disconnect.

--> 

My Review: 

This one really intrigued me from the idea being similar to the only episode of Black Mirror that I have watched.  Because that's what I was relating it to as I started the book, at first I was a bit disappointed that the story didn't start out with us spending time with Ella in this world of being an Influencer.  However, as we got further along, the way those days were brought in with her journaling to try to get past what she was feeling guilty about, it definitely hit hard how things had been and just how far she had gone, or what she had let trying to stay relevant keep her from doing even when she knew what was right and what was wrong.  It was hard to wonder though, if the boy from her past, Adam, was really someone as bad as she thought at one point, or if he was someone she should have trusted. And in the end, we learn something else new about him, something I had kind of had a tiny bit of wondering about earlier on.  Now, while this isn't listed as part of a series, I sure hope that there is a sequel!  It was definitely left off at the end in a way that there is so much more we could do, and I want to know it.  I want all the other heists that they could go on, and even though they may have stopped the whole Smart Brain takeover as they tried, it sounds like there is still more that could be done and more to save.  

 I really enjoyed this book, and it kept me turning pages late into the night, so I was very glad it was during my holiday break from school when I got to read it.  I'll be putting this one in my school library for my students to read for sure!

 

About the Author:

Katie lives in Los Angeles with her husband, twin daughters, and son. Growing up in Pittsburgh, she loved old movies and playing dress up, but never considered telling stories of her own until she was asked to start a blog for the sleepwear company she worked for. Unsure what to say about lingerie, she wrote a fictional serial about a girl chasing her costume design dreams who fell in love with a rock star along the way. And that’s when Katie fell in love with storytelling. That blog became The Brightside Series and she’s been waking before dawn to write ever since.

Connect with the Author:

Instagram | Bookstagram | Twitter | Facebook | Pinterest

 

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Blog Tour Review with Giveaway: So, That Got Weird (So Far, So Good #1) by Amelia Kingston

Amelia Kingston is joining us today with the blog tour of her new release, SO THAT GOT WEIRD! Check it out and be sure to grab your copy today!

Book info:
Title:  So, That Got Weird
Author:  Amelia Kingston
Series:  So Far, So Good #1
Genre: New Adult Contemporary Romance
Release Date:   December 24th, 2019
Publisher:  Totally Bound Publishing

Source:  E-galley from InkSlingerPR which did not influence my opinion in any way
My rating:  5 stars


Synopsis:
A painfully awkward love story.

Incomprehensibly awkward Elizabeth Wilde is desperate for love. Connection. Intimacy. After a lifetime of romantic failures, the twenty-one-year-old gamer realizes she needs help. Professional help. She needs…

A sex tutor.

The devastatingly hot jock Austin Jacobs is just the man for the job. As the reigning campus sex god, he has the playboy act down pat. But underneath those six-pack abs beats a broken heart. He doesn’t trust people and he sure as hell doesn’t believe in love.

The odd couple strike a deal. Four weeks of ‘tutoring’ for five thousand dollars.

When Austin coaxes Elizabeth out from behind her computer screen, the attraction they feel is undeniable. They’re both a little broken, but somehow their jagged edges fit. And when their world comes tumbling down on top of them, they each have to decide if this weird thing called love is worth fighting for.  

Order Your Copy Today:

Amazon | Kobo | Barnes and Noble

 

My Review:

So  I was lucky enough to get to read this earlier this year as a beta reader/critique partner, and when I saw that it was getting published I immediately had to sign up and read the finished story.  And just like when I read it before, I loved it. The characters, the banter, the emotion, all of it was great.

And it wasn't just those things, I loved the sexy times as well!  I loved the main character Elizabeth, I really could connect with her on the nerdiness and awkwardness.  And then there's Austin, sigh.  I just really would like an Austin of my own.  Sexy, smart, funny, sweet, and a good cook!  Not sure what else is needed!  I liked that for the most part, even when one did something to the other one that was rude or something, the way they went about figuring things out wasn't way dramatic.  It totally made sense. Although there was a time or two I'd have walked away from Austin.  I was totally with Elizabeth when she would call him an ass.  He totally deserved it. They came up with great nicknames, Goose and Maverick.  

Finally, the epilogue was one of the best I've read to a story in a long time.  It wasn't too much, and it fit the whole story and characters perfectly.  I really liked this book a lot, and can't wait to read more by the author!  Hoping the next book will be about Jessie, or Barbie, as Elizabeth first called her.  

 

About Amelia Kingston:

Amelia Kingston is many things, the most interesting of which are probably California girl, writer, traveler, and dog mom. She survives on chocolate, coffee, wine, and sarcasm. Not necessarily in that order.

She’s been blessed with a patient husband who’s embraced her nomad ways and traveled with her to over 30 countries across 5 continents (I’m coming for you next, Antarctica!). She’s also been cursed with an impatient (although admittedly adorable) terrier who pouts when her dinner is 5 minutes late.
She writes about strong, stubborn, flawed women and the men who can't help but love them. Her irreverent books aim to be silly and fun with the occasional storm cloud to remind us to appreciate the sunny days. As a hopeless romantic, her favorite stories are the ones that remind us all that while love is rarely perfect, it’s always worth chasing.

Connect with Amelia:

Newsletter | Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

 

Enter Amelia’s Giveaway:

 

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Blog Tour Review with Giveaway: Adorkable by Cookie O'Gorman

Today we have the blog tour for Adorkable by Cookie O’Gorman! Check it out and be sure to grab your paperback copy today!

Book info:

Title:  Adorkable
Author:  Cookie O'Gorman
Genre: YA Contemporary Romance
Release Date: December 3rd, 2019 
Publisher: Entangled Teen

Source:  E-galley from publisher which did not influence my opinion
My rating:  5 stars

About Adorkable:

“Captivating, fun, and totally swoon-worthy! This is the kind of story my reader heart craves.” ―Rachel Harris, New York Times bestselling author of Eyes on Me  

Available in print for the first time, and with exclusive bonus content only found in the print version! Fall in love with Sally and Becks all over again.  

Adorkable (ah-dor-kuh-bul): Descriptive term meaning to be equal parts dorky and adorable. For reference, see Sally Spitz.

Seventeen-year-old Sally Spitz is done with dating. Or at least, she's done with the horrible blind dates/hookups/sneak attacks her matchmaking bestie, Hooker, sets her up on. There's only so much one geek girl and Gryffindor supporter can take.

Her solution: She needs a fake boyfriend. And fast.

Enter Becks, soccer phenom, all-around hottie, and Sally's best friend practically since birth. When Sally asks Becks to be her F.B.F. (fake boyfriend), Becks is only too happy to be used. He'd do anything for Sal―even if that means giving her PDA lessons in his bedroom, saying she's "more than pretty," and expertly kissing her at parties.

The problem: Sally's been in love with Becks all her life―and he's completely clueless.

This book features two best friends, one special-edition Yoda Snuggie, countless beneath-the-ear kisses, and begs the question:

Who wants a real boyfriend when faking it is so much more fun?

My Review:

This book started off so adorably and I was hooked from page one!   And I don't know if I can gush enough about how much I loved it, how happy I was when I finished!  I loved Becks so much, and I love where his name came from, Baldwin Eugene Charles Kent, and that it was leftover from how they were naming all the kids after their uncles but there were four left!  But sigh, Becks, he's like the book boyfriend I would have if I was still in high school and not an old high school librarian.  But let's talk about Sally here too.  You see, I was kind of like Sally.  Totally felt like a nerd, had all the same feelings of inadequacy that she had, crushes on guys like Becks, (although none of them were my best friend).  Also I didn't really date in high school.  I had a blind date or two set up by friends that totally didn't work out.  The banter was cute, the romance was sweet, and I even liked Ash, even if he wasn't going to be the guy for Sally.  So many times I was with Sally and wanted to just slap her best friend Lillian who wouldn't quite trying to set her up.  So much cuteness and sweetness in this book, I finished with a big goofy smile on my face!

Amazon | Barnes and Noble

      Target: https://www.target.com/p/adorkable-by-cookie-o-39-gorman-paperback/-/A-77171239

About the Author:

Cookie O'Gorman writes YA romance to give readers a taste of happily-ever-after. Small towns, quirky characters, and the awkward yet beautiful moments in life make up her books. Cookie also has a soft spot for nerds and ninjas.

 

Connect with Cookie: 

 

Website | Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads

 

Giveaway:

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Pre-Release Blitz: So That Got Weird by Amelia Kingston

Amelia Kingston is joining us today with an excerpt for her upcoming SO THAT GOT WEIRD! Check it out and be sure to pre-order your copy today!

Title: So That Got Weird

Author: Amelia Kingston

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Release Date: December 24^th!

About So That Got Weird:

A painfully awkward love story.

Incomprehensibly awkward Elizabeth Wilde is desperate for love. Connection. Intimacy. After a lifetime of romantic failures, the twenty-one-year-old gamer realizes she needs help. Professional help. She needs…

A sex tutor.

The devastatingly hot jock Austin Jacobs is just the man for the job. As the reigning campus sex god, he has the playboy act down pat. But underneath those six-pack abs beats a broken heart. He doesn’t trust people and he sure as hell doesn’t believe in love.

The odd couple strike a deal. Four weeks of ‘tutoring’ for five thousand dollars.

When Austin coaxes Elizabeth out from behind her computer screen, the attraction they feel is undeniable. They’re both a little broken, but somehow their jagged edges fit. And when their world comes tumbling down on top of them, they each have to decide if this weird thing called love is worth fighting for.  

Pre-Order You Copy Today:

Amazon | Kobo | Barnes and Noble

Exclusive Excerpt:

“Well, Mav.” I’m trying to annoy him, but secretly I like the idea that it’s something only I call him. Maverick. It suits him. “I made us a schedule, actually.” My voice has more uncertainty in it than I was hoping. I hand him the carefully thought-out schedule I crafted over the past few months.

“Of course you made a schedule,” he quips with a smirk. His smile only grows as he reads. “You made us a sex syllabus, a sex-abus.”

I groan. He continues undaunted.

“Four weeks, four topics. Looks like we round a base a week. This week’s kissing. Next week is touching, groping, fondling. Then, oral. Giving and receiving. Last week we hit a few home runs,” he offers.  

Sex with Austin.

I get lost in my thoughts of what these next four weeks are going to be like. My body flushes and I cross my legs, fighting the building warmth between my thighs. It’s not like I haven’t pictured all this before, but now I’m starting to realize it’s actually going to happen.  

You are going to lose your virginity to Austin Jacobs!

“You seriously think we need a whole week dedicated to kissing?” he challenges.

“It’s important to build foundational knowledge in a new subject before advancing to more challenging material.”  

Oh my God, you’re such a nerd.

“Come here.” He saunters around the kitchen island and I stand up to meet him. He steps right into my body. I start to lean back, but he grabs my hands and puts them around his neck. The gesture highlights our height difference. I can barely reach without him having to bend down.

His fingers slide over the delicate skin of my forearms and down my sides, causing an effervescent tingle across my whole body. He wraps his arms around my waist, pulling me into him firmly. I’m so small in his embrace. It makes me feel dainty and weirdly feminine.

“Kiss me,” he demands.

“Now?” I swallow roughly.

“Now would be good.”

I don’t do anything.

I just stand there.  

Kiss him!  

Just do it!  

He’s right here and he is asking you to do it!

My heart races, my stomach flutters. My throat gets tight. My mouth goes dry. I spiral into panic. Those beautiful blue eyes are bearing down on me expectantly, burning into me. I close my eyes, count to three in my head, and do it. I push forward on my tiptoes and quickly peck him on the lips. Peck is a generous term for the limp-lipped travesty that is my first attempt at a kiss.

“There,” I declare in placid triumph.

“Damn, I must be a horrible teacher. Is that what I showed you last night?” he says in mock disappointment.

I look down at his chest and shake my head, feeling like a kid who got caught sneaking candy before dinner.

“How did I kiss you last night?” It isn’t a rhetorical question. He wants me to answer.

“Deep,” I say without thinking. “A-And long,” I add with a shaky breath and a blush. That’s the only way to describe his kiss. Other than being simply amazing.

“Hey.” He lifts my chin up so our eyes meet again. “I know you’re nervous, but you shouldn’t be. This isn’t a big deal. I know you can do this.” Great, now Austin’s giving me a pep talk. Hello, Self-esteem. I’d like you to meet All Time Low. This is a whole new level of embarrassing.

Closing my eyes, I try to think back to his kiss last night. I take a deep breath and this time I pull him down to me. He leans down easily. I run through the checklist I made last night. I brush my lips gently across his as I tilt my head to the side. I place my lips on his, teasing his bottom lip with my tongue lightly.

“Open your lips,” I whisper against him.

“Yes, boss,” he quips. I stifle an annoyed sigh and slide my tongue into his mouth. He lets out a soft moan as his hands slide down to my butt.  

Holy shit! You just made Austin Jacobs moan!

 

About Amelia Kingston:

Amelia Kingston is many things, the most interesting of which are probably California girl, writer, traveler, and dog mom. She survives on chocolate, coffee, wine, and sarcasm. Not necessarily in that order.

She’s been blessed with a patient husband who’s embraced her nomad ways and traveled with her to over 30 countries across 5 continents (I’m coming for you next, Antarctica!). She’s also been cursed with an impatient (although admittedly adorable) terrier who pouts when her dinner is 5 minutes late.

She writes about strong, stubborn, flawed women and the men who can't help but love them. Her irreverent books aim to be silly and fun with the occasional storm cloud to remind us to appreciate the sunny days. As a hopeless romantic, her favorite stories are the ones that remind us all that while love is rarely perfect, it’s always worth chasing.

Connect with Amelia:

Newsletter | Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Promo Post: 1001 Dark Nights Bundles 20-24

We are celebrating the release of 5 amazing bundles (20-24) from 1001 Dark Nights by being part of the blog tour! Each bundle features novellas from 4 bestselling authors. The bundles just released, and you can grab your copies by going to the links below. Check out the book trailer for the bundles!

 

1001 Dark Nights Bundle 20

Featuring: Rebecca Zanetti, Kristen Ashley, Larissa Ione, and Laura Kaye

About this Bundle:

From New York Times and USA Today bestselling authors Rebecca Zanetti, Kristen Ashley, Larissa Ione, and Laura Kaye. Four Dark Tales. Four Sensual Stories. Four Page Turners.

BLAZE ERUPTING: Scorpius Syndrome/A Brigade Novella by Rebecca Zanetti Hugh Johnson is nobody’s hero, and the idea of being in the limelight makes him want to growl. He takes care of his brothers, does his job, and enjoys a mellow evening hanging with his hound dog and watching the sports channel. So when sweet and sexy Ellie Smithers from his college chemistry class asks him to save millions of people from a nuclear meltdown, he doggedly steps forward while telling himself that the world hasn’t changed and he can go back to his relaxing life. One look at Ellie and excitement doesn’t seem so bad.

ROUGH RIDE: A Chaos Novella by Kristen Ashley Rosalie Holloway put it all on the line for the Chaos Motorcycle Club. Informing to Chaos on their rival club—her man’s club, Bounty—Rosalie knows the stakes. And she pays them when her man, who she was hoping to scare straight, finds out she’s betrayed him and he delivers her to his brothers to mete out their form of justice. But really, Rosie has long been denying that, as she drifted away from her Bounty, she’s been falling in love with Everett “Snapper” Kavanagh, a Chaos brother. Snap is the biker-boy-next door with the snowy blue eyes, quiet confidence and sweet disposition who was supposed to keep her safe…and fell down on that job.  

HAWKYN: A Demonica Novella by Larissa Ione As a special class of earthbound guardian angel called Memitim, Hawkyn is charged with protecting those whose lives are woven into the fabric of the future. His success is legendary, so when he’s given a serial killer to watch over, he sees no reason for that to change. But Hawkyn’s own future is jeopardized after he breaks the rules and rescues a beautiful woman from the killer’s clutches, setting off an explosive, demonic game of cat and mouse that pits brother against brother and that won’t end until someone dies.  

RIDE DIRTY: A Raven Riders Novella by Laura Kaye Caine McKannon is all about rules. As the Raven Riders’ Sergeant-at-Arms, he prizes loyalty to his brothers and protection of his club. As a man, he takes pleasure wherever he can get it but allows no one close—because distance is the only way to ensure people can’t hurt you. And he’s had enough pain for a lifetime. Kids and school are kindergarten teacher Emma Kerry’s whole life, so she’s stunned to realize she has an enemy—and even more surprised to find a protector in the intimidating man who saved her. Tall, dark, and tattooed, Caine is unlike any man Emma’s ever known, and she’s as uncertain of him as she is attracted.

Every Dark Nights tale is breathtakingly sexy and magically romantic.  

Purchase your copy of BUNDLE 20 today!

Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon CA | Amazon AU

Check out the authors:

Rebecca Zanetti | Kristen Ashley | Larissa Ione | Laura Kaye

-------------------

1001 Dark Nights Bundle 21

Featuring: Joanna Wylde, Jennifer Probst, Elisabeth Naughton, and Carrie Ann Ryan

About this Bundle:

From New York Times and USA Today bestselling authors Joanna Wylde, Jennifer Probst, Elisabeth Naughton, and Carrie Ann Ryan. Four Dark Tales. Four Sensual Stories. Four Page Turners.  

ROME’S CHANCE: A Reapers MC Novella by Joanna Wylde Rome McGuire knew he was in trouble the first time he saw her. She was sweet and pretty and just about perfect in every way. Randi Whittaker was also too young and innocent for the Reapers Motorcycle Club. He did the right thing, and walked away. The second time, he couldn’t resist tasting her. Walking away wasn’t so easy that time, but her family needed her and he had a job to do. When she came around a third time, he’d had enough. Randi had been given two chances to escape, and now it was time for Rome to take his.  

THE MARRIAGE ARRANGEMENT: A Marriage to a Billionaire Novella by Jennifer Probst Caterina Victoria Windsor fled her family winery after a humiliating broken engagement, and spent the past year in Italy rebuilding her world. But when Ripley Savage shows up with a plan to bring her back home, and an outrageous demand for her to marry him, she has no choice but to return to face her past. But when simple attraction begins to run deeper, Cat has to decide if she’s strong enough to trust again…and strong enough to stay…  

SURRENDER: A House of Sin Novella by Elisabeth Naughton The leaders of my House want her dead. The men I’ve secretly aligned myself with want her punished for screwing up their coup. I’ve been sent by both to deal with her, but one look at the feisty redhead and I’ve got plans of my own. Before I carry out anyone else’s orders, she’s going to give me what I want. And only when I’m satisfied will I decide if she lives or dies. Depending, of course, on just how easily she surrenders...  

INKED NIGHTS: A Montgomery Ink Novella by Carrie Ann Ryan Tattoo artist, Derek Hawkins knows the rules: One night a month. No last names. No promises. Olivia Madison has her own rules: Don’t fall in love. No commitment. Never tell Derek the truth. When their worlds crash into each other however, Derek and Olivia will have to face what they fought to ignore as well as the connection they tried to forget.  

Every Dark Nights tale is breathtakingly sexy and magically romantic.

Purchase your copy of BUNDLE 21 today!

Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon CA | Amazon AU

Check out the authors:

Joanna Wylde | Jennifer Probst | Elisabeth Naughton | Carrie Ann Ryan

-------------------

1001 Dark Nights Bundle 22

Featuring: Rachel Van Dyken, Lexi Blake, Jennifer L. Armentrout, and J. Kenner

About this Bundle:

From New York Times and USA Today bestselling authors Rachel Van Dyken, Lexi Blake, Jennifer L. Armentrout, and J. Kenner. Four Dark Tales. Four Sensual Stories. Four Page Turners.  

ENVY: An Eagle Elite Novella by Rachel Van Dyken Every family has rules, the mafia just has more.... Do not speak to the bosses unless spoken to. Do not make eye contact unless you want to die. And above all else, do not fall in love. Renee Cassani's future is set. Her betrothal is set. Her life, after nannying for the five families for the summer, is set. Somebody should have told Vic Colezan that. He's a man who doesn't take no for an answer. And he only wants one thing. Her. Somebody should have told Renee that her bodyguard needed as much discipline as the kids she was nannying. Good thing Vic has a firm hand.  

PROTECTED: A Masters and Mercenaries Novella by Lexi Blake Years before, Wade Rycroft fell in love with Geneva Harris, the smartest girl in his class. The rodeo star and the shy academic made for an odd pair but their chemistry was undeniable. They made plans to get married after high school but when Genny left him standing in the rain, he joined the Army and vowed to leave that life behind. Genny married the town’s golden boy, and Wade knew that he couldn’t go home again. Fifteen years later, Wade returns to his Texas hometown for his brother’s wedding and walks into a storm of scandal. Genny’s marriage has dissolved and the town has turned against her. But when someone tries to kill his old love, Wade can’t refuse to help her.  

THE PRINCE: A Wicked Novella by Jennifer L. Armentrout Cold. Heartless. Deadly. Whispers of his name alone bring fear to fae and mortals alike. The Prince. There is nothing in the mortal world more dangerous than him. Haunted by a past he couldn’t control, all Caden desires is revenge against those who’d wronged him, trapping him in never-ending nightmare. And there is one person he knows can help him. Raised within the Order, Brighton Jussier knows just how dangerous the Prince is, reformed or not. She’d seen firsthand what atrocities he could be capable of. The last thing she wants to do is help him, but he leaves her little choice. Forced to work alongside him, she begins to see the man under the bitter ice. Yearning for him feels like the definition of insanity, but there’s no denying the heat in his touch and the wicked promise is his stare.  

PLEASE ME: A Stark Ever After Novella by Julie Kenner Each day with Damien is a miracle, each moment with our children a gift. And yet I cannot escape the growing sense that a storm is gathering, threatening to pull me away, to rip us apart. To drag me down, once again, into a darkness to which I swore never to return. I have to fight it—I know that. And I am waging the battle with of all my heart. But it is Damien who is my strength, and we both know that the only way to push away the darkness is for him to fold me in his arms and claim me completely. And for me to surrender myself, once again, to the fire that burns between us.  

Every Dark Nights tale is breathtakingly sexy and magically romantic.  

Purchase your copy of BUNDLE 22 today!

Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon CA | Amazon AU

Check out the authors:

Rachel Van Dyken | Lexi Blake | Jennifer L. Armentrout | J. Kenner

-------------------

 

1001 Dark Nights Bundle 23

Featuring: Lorelei James, Kylie Scott, Donna Grant, and Kristen Proby

About this Bundle:

From New York Times and USA Today bestselling authors Lorelei James, Kylie Scott, Donna Grant, and Kristen Proby. Four Dark Tales. Four Sensual Stories. Four Page Turners.  

WOUND TIGHT: A Rough Riders/Blacktop Cowboys® Crossover by Lorelei James Bull rider Justin Donohue spent his youth hell-bent on winning world championships. After hitting the big 4-0, Justin takes a job at the Grade A Ranch and Rodeo School, where he immediately locks horns (and lips) with the sexy, sassy Callie—a 22-year-old cowgirl set on seducing him. From the moment Callie Morgan encounters the hot-as-fire new ranch hand, she knows his gruff manner is an attempt to mask his attraction to her. But she’s never backed down from a challenge, especially not when Justin’s actions speak louder than his denials.  

STRONG: A Stage Dive Novella by Kylie Scott As head of security to Stage Dive, one of the biggest rock bands in the world, Sam Knowles has plenty of experience dealing with trouble. But spoilt brat Martha Nicholson just might be the worst thing he’s ever encountered. The beautiful troublemaker claims to have reformed, but Sam knows better than to think with what’s in his pants. Unfortunately, it’s not so easy to make his heart fall into line.  

DRAGON NIGHT: A Dark Kings Novella by Donna Grant There has never been a hunt that Dorian has lost. With his sights set on a relic the Dragon Kings need to battle an ancient foe, he won’t let anything stand in his way – especially not the beautiful owner. Alexandra Sheridan is smart and cautious. Yet the attraction between them is impossible to deny – or ignore. But is it a road Dorian dares to travel down again?  

TEMPTING BROOKE: A Big Sky Novella by Kristen Proby Brooke’s Blooms has taken Cunningham Falls by surprise. This store is Brooke Henderson’s deepest joy, and it means everything to her, which shows in how completely she and her little shop have been embraced by the small community of Cunningham Falls. So, when her landlord dies and Brody Chabot saunters through her door, announcing that the building has been sold, and will soon be demolished, Brooke knows that she’s in for the fight of her life. But she hasn’t gotten this far by sitting back and quietly doing what she’s told. Brooke has no intention of losing this fight, no matter how tempting Brody’s smile -- and body -- is.  

Every Dark Nights tale is breathtakingly sexy and magically romantic.

Purchase your copy of BUNDLE 23 today!

Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon CA | Amazon AU

Check out the authors:

Lorelei James | Kylie Scott | Donna Grant | Kristen Proby

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1001 Dark Nights Bundle 24

Featuring: Heather Graham, K. Bromberg, Kendall Ryan, and Gena Showalter

About this Bundle:

From New York Times and USA Today bestselling authors Heather Graham, K. Bromberg, Kendall Ryan, and Gena Showalter.  Four Dark Tales. Four Sensual Stories. Four Page Turners.

HAUNTED BE THE HOLIDAYS: A Krewe of Hunters Novella by Heather Graham It’s Halloween at the Global Tower Theatre, a fantastic and historic theater owned by Adam Harrison and run by spouses of Krewe members. During a special performance, a strange actor makes an appearance in the middle of the show, warning of dire events if his murder is not solved before another holiday rolls around. Dakota McCoy and Brodie McFadden dive into the mystery. Both have a special talent for dealing with ghosts, but this one is proving elusive. With the help of Brodie’s diva mother and his ever-patient father—who were killed together when a stage chandelier fell upon them—Dakota and Brodie set out to solve the case. If they can't solve the murder quickly, there will be no Thanksgiving for the Krewe...  

CONTROL: An Everyday Heroes Novella by K. Bromberg Control is something Desi Whitman abhors. Why live life in black and white perfection when you can messily color outside the lines? But when she comes face to face with SWAT officer Reznor Mayne, he’s about to show her just how good control can feel.  

HUNKY HEARTBREAKERS: A Whiskey Kisses Novella by Kendall Ryan Everything’s bigger in Texas. And that includes Duke Wilder’s sexual appetite. Together with his twin brother, he runs a whiskey distillery, and when their business takes off—suddenly he’s got it all. Success. Money. Family. But he doesn’t have a woman to share it with. When Valentina storms into his life, her presence is only supposed to be temporary. She’s a feisty attorney hired to help clean up his company’s recent legal mess. He never counted on her being the one to turn his whole world upside down.  

THE DARKEST CAPTIVE: A Lords of the Underworld Novella by Gena Showalter For centuries, Galen the Treacherous has been the most hated immortal in the Underworld. Possessed by the demons of Jealousy and False Hope, he has always lived for a single purpose: destroy everything. Then he met her. Former demon turned human femme fatale — Legion Honey -- sought to kill Galen, but ended up parting with her virginity instead. Afraid of their sizzling connection, she ran away…and ended up trapped in hell, tortured and abused in the worst of ways. Now she’s free, and a shell of herself, afraid of her own shadow. Galen's hunger for Legion has only grown. Now the warrior with nothing to lose must help her rekindle the fire that once burned inside her.  

Every Dark Nights tale is breathtakingly sexy and magically romantic.  

Purchase your copy of BUNDLE 24 today!

Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon CA | Amazon AU

Check out the authors:

Heather Graham | K. Bromberg | Kendall Ryan | Gena Showalter

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WATCH THE TRAILER

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Blog Tour Review with Book Trailer: The King (A Wicked Series #3.6) by Jennifer L. Armentrout

We are beyond excited to be sharing this release from Jennifer L. Armentrout with you today! THE KING is part of the Wicked series and it is releasing as part of 1001 Dark Nights. It just went live! Check out an excerpt and book trailer from the title below. Click here to grab your copy now.

 

Purchase your copy of THE KING today!

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Book info: 

Title:  The King
Author:  Jennifer L. Armentrout
Series:  A Wicked Trilogy #3.6
Genre:  New Adult paranormal romance
Release Date:  July 23rd, 2019
Publisher: 1001 Dark Nights
Source:  E-galley from InkSlinger PR which did  not influence my opinion
My rating:  5 stars

Synopsis:
From #1 New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Jennifer L. Armentrout comes the next installment in her Wicked series.

As Caden and Brighton's attraction grows despite the odds stacked against a happily ever after, they must work together to stop an Ancient fae from releasing the Queen, who wants nothing more than to see Caden become the evil Prince once feared by fae and mortals alike.

 **Every 1001 Dark Nights novella is a standalone story. For new readers, it’s an introduction to an author’s world. And for fans, it’s a bonus book in the author’s series. We hope you'll enjoy each one as much as we do.**

Add THE KING to your Goodreads TBR here!

 

My Review:

As her books usually do, the latest from Armentrout blew me away.  The lengths that the author lets her characters go to, their suffering, their emotions, their connections, their daring, these are the reasons that Armentrout wins me over with each new book.   The evil characters hold back no punches, and our main character stands up for what she wants, as well as holding her own when she must go up against the evil or even against her own friends who don't seem to believe in her the way they should.  I'd been waiting eagerly for this next installment after reading and loving the first one in this little mini-series, The Prince.  I really like Brighton, and it was so good to get her own book and see her go after her own revenge/vengeance for what happened to both her and her mother.  

 We learned a few things in this one, I won't give them away, but they have to do with not only when Caden, the King, saved her life, but also what happened when he tried his last trick to convince her to stop going after her revenge.  I don't know if Bri really figured it out yet, but it was left there as a clue for any reader to grasp onto and hold onto what it may lead to in the next novella, which, as always, I cannot wait for!   

BOOK TRAILER

 

“Jennifer L. Armentrout’s intoxicating new fantasy is her best yet!” New York Times bestselling author Gena Showalter on Storm and Fury

“Dark, mysterious, and yet often hilarious, this riveting page-turner sparkles with innuendo and delivers a breathtaking romance; a stunning conclusion to the trilogy. “ Library Journal on Moonlight Scandals
 

“With this first title in her new Dark Elements series, powerhouse author Armentrout delivers another action-packed, believably narrated ride through a paranormal world as seen by a teen.”Booklist on White Hot Kiss

 

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About JENNIFER L. ARMENTROUT:

# 1 New York Times, USA Today and international bestselling author Jennifer L. Armentrout lives in Martinsburg, West Virginia. All the rumors you’ve heard about her state aren’t true. When she’s not hard at work writing. she spends her time reading, working out, watching really bad zombie movies, pretending to write, and hanging out with her husband and her Jack Russell Loki.

Her dreams of becoming an author started in algebra class, where she spent most of her time writing short stories….which explains her dismal grades in math. Jennifer writes young adult paranormal, science fiction, fantasy, and contemporary romance. She is published with Spencer Hill Press, Entangled Teen and Brazen, Disney/Hyperion and Harlequin Teen. Her book Obsidian has been optioned for a major motion picture and her Covenant Series has been optioned for TV. She also writes adult and New Adult romance under the name J. Lynn. She is published by Entangled Brazen and HarperCollins.    

Connect With Her: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads | Twitter | Bookbub

 

Blog Tour Review: Victor (Chicago Blaze #3) by Brenda Rothert

Today we are celebrating the release of VICTOR by Brenda Rothert. This is a contemporary romance, standalone, and it is the third title in the Chicago Blaze hockey romance series. Purchase your copy now!

Grab your copy now:

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Victor by Brenda Rothert

Available Now | Chicago Blaze, #3

Grab your copy now:

Amazon | Nook | Kobo | Apple Books

Book info:
Genre:  Adult contemporary sports romance
Release Date:  July 16th, 2019
Publisher:  Silver Sky Publishing, Inc.
Source:  E-galley from Inkslinger PR which did not influence my opinion
My rating:  5 stars

Synopsis:

He’s a hockey star with a headboard full of notches. She’s a shy NHL concession worker at who’s never been kissed.

Lindy

They don’t call me Belinda Boring for nothing. It’s my name, after all. And for a 23-year-old with plain brown hair who still lives at home and gets tongue tied over nothing, it’s a fitting one. I’m not even one of those quiet girls with a hidden talent, unless making a mean order of nachos at the NHL arena I work at counts. My life consists of working, reading and harboring a secret crush on a hockey player who doesn’t know I exist. At least, until we accidentally meet and become unlikely friends.

Victor

I’m living the dream. A poor kid who worked his way into the NHL, I’ll never forget where I came from, though I try to. My past follows me, a nagging reminder that I’ll never be what everyone thinks I am. As the threat of my secret being exposed looms closer, my game slips, leaving me in danger of being cut from my team--the only family I have. I’m losing my hold on everything when a new friend helps me find hope. She’s nothing like the women I’m used to, but by the time I figure out that’s exactly why she’s right for me, I’ve lost my chance with her. Somehow, I have to convince a woman who thinks she’s invisible that she’s the only one I see.

Add the book to Goodreads

My Review:
I really connected with this main character.  I'm totally with her on not wanting to accept what "my league" is.  It sucks, but maybe I have to.  I know unlike Lindy, I'll never be lucky enough to have a hot hockey player turn out to be the guy I meet and fall in love with, and who falls in love back with me.  But enough about me, let's talk about how good this story was.  It was a page-turner.  I really liked both characters, they were just real, and while I totally connected with Lindy, Victor was a bit of a mystery, but a good guy, even with how his life had been and the way he felt about women to start.  There was a death of a side character what seemed really early in the story, and not one I would have seen coming.  But that character's back story ended up being an integral part towards the end, that I see how the author tied it all together.  I really like that we were able to get our two main characters falling in love enough before the end that the final obstacle or issue of the book was Victor's secret/past issue coming up to be faced.  I liked that it wasn't some kind of wrench in their relationship.  In some romances that just seems like how the author adds that last bit of drama, and I actually like it more like this book when it happens.  I really enjoyed this one, and hope to go back and read the others in the series as well.   

Purchase ANTON Now:

Amazon | Nook | Kobo | Apple Books

 

Purchase LUCA Now:

Amazon | Nook | Kobo | Apple Books

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AUTHOR INFORMATION:

Brenda Rothert is an Illinois native who was a print journalist for nine years. She made the jump from fact to fiction in 2013 and never looked back. From new adult to steamy contemporary romance, Brenda creates fresh characters in every story she tells. She’s a lover of Diet Coke, chocolate, lazy weekends and happily ever afters.

AUTHOR LINKS:

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Wattpad | Amazon

Release Blitz: Indulge Me (Stark Saga #6.1) by J. Kenner

We are beyond excited to be sharing this release from J. Kenner with you today! INDULGE ME is part of the Stark Ever After series and it is releasing as part of 1001 Dark Nights. It just went live today! Check out an excerpt and book trailer from the title below. Click here to grab your copy now.

 

Purchase your copy of INDULGE ME today!

Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon CA | Amazon AU

About INDULGE ME:

Despite everything I have suffered, I never truly understood darkness until my family was in danger. Those desperate hours came close to breaking both Damien and me, but together we found the strength to survive and hold our family together.

Even so, my wounds are deep, and wispy shadows still linger. But Damien is my rock. My hero against the dark and violence.

And when dark memories threaten to consume me, he whisks me away, knowing that in order to conquer my fears he must take control. Demand my submission. Claim me completely. Because if I am going to find my center again, I must hold tight to Damien and draw deep from the wellspring of our shared passion.

**Every 1001 Dark Nights novella is a standalone story. For new readers, it’s an introduction to an author’s world. And for fans, it’s a bonus book in the author’s series. We hope you’ll enjoy each one as much as we do.**  

Add INDULGE ME to your Goodreads TBR here!

Purchase your copy of INDULGE ME today!

Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon CA | Amazon AU

 

Excerpt:

I’ve been dreading this conversation, but now that we’re having it, I can’t help but feel relieved. Because I don’t want to keep my wounds from Damien. Not when he’s the one who has always helped me heal. 

I used to joke that Damien could remake the world to his will with nothing more than a sweep of his arm, and if that wasn’t enough, his checkbook could take over, and he’d remake it with a swipe of his pen. An exaggeration, of course. A joke, even. 

And yet some small part of me believed it to be true.

No. Some part of me knew that it was true. Maybe not as to the whole world, but as to us. Him. Me. The girls. Our friends. Inside the bubble we lived in, Damien had that power. Even when the outside world would squeeze in through a pinhole, somehow Damien would shoot them down and shoo them away.

Anne’s kidnapping was a huge breach in that bubble. But even then, Damien’s command and determination pulled us through, and we got our daughter back. 

We also got pain and fear and death and betrayal. And defeat, I add, thinking of the newest scar to mar my inner thigh. 

Even then, it took some crazy teens on a winding road for me to finally understand just how dangerous the monsters in the dark can be. 

I love Damien. More important, I trust him. 

But I’ve finally faced the realization that he can’t truly keep me or the girls safe any more than he could put that bubble back over our lives. 

That’s the truth. That’s reality. And yet thinking it feels disloyal.

He’s watching me tenderly, studying my face. “Tell me,” he demands, and though it’s difficult, I lead him through the twisting path of my thoughts.

“It’s never bad when illusions are shattered,” he says when I finish. “Facing reality is the truest form of courage there is. But that doesn’t mean you have to give in to it. Instead, you acknowledge it. You look it in the eye. And in that moment, you know that you’re strong enough to withstand anything. You, Nikki.” 

“Am I?” I know he believes it. He’s always seen a wellspring of strength in me that even the fact that I took a blade to my own flesh couldn’t squelch. 

And the irony? He’s right. I am strong. I’m even stronger with him at my side.

But I’m also afraid.

I think of the terror that burned through my blood on that dangerous mountain road. The similar pang I feel every time my girls leave my sight now, because I’ve seen the truth. I know that anything could happen to them. Anything at all. And not even a man like Damien Stark can ensure their safety.

I meet his eyes. “Can you honestly tell me that your heart doesn’t tighten every moment they are out of your sight?” 

“Our girls? Of course it does. Every moment you’re away from me, too. But goddammit, I won’t cower forever just because horror came knocking. And I won’t let you, either.”

BOOK TRAILER

“J. Kenner's writing is like a fine wine, expertly crafted into a melody of notes that will arouse your senses and warm you to your core. Her sinfully seductive men will command a delicious blush to your cheeks while breathing life into your every fantasy. The masterful attention to detail is what brings you back again and again, and makes her work top-shelf.” ~Hilary, The Read Report

“Every word and every book that J. Kenner writes are PURE SEDUCTION. EVERY. SINGLE. ONE.” ~Karen, Bookalicious Babes Blog

“J. KENNER SURE KNOWS HOW TO WRITE SWOON WORTHY SEXUAL CHEMISTRY!!!” ~Lana, White Hot Reads

"I love the captivating writing and passionate characters that pull me into every J. Kenner story. The raw intensity and scorching sexy times mixed with an element of intrigue always keep me on the edge of my seat. She’s a must read author for me." ~Gretchen, About that Story  

 

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About J. KENNER:

Julie Kenner (aka J. Kenner and J.K. Beck) is the New York Times, USA Today, Publishers Weekly, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of over forty novels, novellas and short stories in a variety of genres.

Praised by Publishers Weekly as an author with a “flair for dialogue and eccentric characterizations,” J.K. writes a range of stories including super sexy romances, paranormal romance, chick lit suspense and paranormal mommy lit. Her foray into the latter, Carpe Demon: Adventures of a Demon-Hunting Soccer Mom by Julie Kenner, is in development as a feature film with 1492 Pictures.

Her most recent trilogy of erotic romances, The Stark Trilogy (as J. Kenner), reached as high as #2 on the New York Times list and is published in over twenty countries.

J.K. lives in Central Texas, with her husband, two daughters, and several cats.    

Connect With Her:  
Website | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads | Newsletter | Twitter | Bookbub