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Hold On Tight (Taking Chances, #2) by Nicola Haken

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Synopsis

A figure from Dexter’s past has uprooted all the memories he has tried so desperately to bury… to forget. The terrible events of his past have been blown wide open once again, immersing him a pool of guilt deeper than he’s even experienced before.

Dexter feels powerless. The future he foolishly allowed himself to conceive is falling apart around him and there’s nothing he can do about it. But there’s one thing he can control – one thing he’s an expert at… blocking everything out. Losing all control, Dexter copes the only way he knows how – he dives so far into the well of addiction, the only thing that matters anymore is where his next fix is coming from.

Mission accomplished – there’s no one left. He’s successfully pushed everyone away. Nobody left to care about means no more guilt, right? You can’t hurt people who aren’t there…

But has he really pushed Emily as far away as he thinks he has? She’s given up everything for him – her home, her friends… her whole life. And she doesn’t regret a single thing. But can she save him from drowning, or has he finally sunk too far?

(Not suitable for those under 18 due to language, sexual content and explicit drug use)

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Review

Nicola Haken has undoubtedly taken my breath away with both Take My Hand (Taking Chances, #1) and Hold On Tight (Taking Chances, #2). I have fallen under her spell and am completely committed to finishing this series and any other books she releases!!! These books are raw and gritty. They’re incredibly real and oftentimes ugly. The struggles both Emily and Dexter endure make these books both beautiful and heartbreaking. I went through a roller coaster ride of emotions while facing some ugly truths about addiction and self worth. This book gives you a hard and fast reality check. It goes to show you just how easy someone can go from 0 to 10 and just how far one can be pushed before they wake up and say enough is enough. This is no usual love story though their romance is one you cling onto…tightly while hoping for the best. You won’t be sure of the outcome and I will say Nicola cleverly leaves this book in a similar fashion as Take My Hand…with your mouth open searching for the next page!

So what did I really think?

Let’s start with Emily shall we? She is undoubtedly one of the sweetest, most loving people, but she is also incredibly stubborn. She’s so wrapped up with Dexter and his problems that she fails to see her own shortcomings. She pushes everyone aside to tend to Dexter forgetting they may in fact need her as well. I understood her need to stand by her man and all, but she hid from everyone while trying to be the supportive and loving girlfriend. I didn’t actually feel the problem was that she did these things, in fact, I think it is actually what makes her human. My issue is that a lot of her issues were still unresolved. I know, I know, there will be a third book, but Emily just had a way about her that got to me. I loved how the author exposed Emily’s faults while still remaining committed to Dexter and his troubles. 

Most people become so engulfed with their own lives, they often fail to recognize the problems others are experiencing. I think this is what I like about Nicola Haken’s writing. She’s raw and not afraid to speak truth. She isn’t afraid to push boundaries and is able to create a  passionate and beautiful romance amid turmoil. Her characters are often incredibly flawed with real issues that affect not only them, but everyone in their lives.

Dexter, boy oh boy, did Dexter do a number on my head and my heart. I fell in love with him, but then he went and trampled all over my heart. Somehow he redeemed himself and I managed to  fall in love all over again…FYI – I forgive you for the trampling, but I still worry about you.  Dexter has an incredibly difficult and dark past. His life has been one tragic turn after another and his choices have led him to what can only be viewed as rock bottom. In Take My Hand, you learn a bit about Dexter’s troubled past and his struggles, but in Hold on Tight you actually experience these struggles first hand and let me tell you, it isn’t pretty. Things get ugly and the author does and excellent job bringing the reader into the world of addiction. This plays a heavy role in this book and I am still in awe of how I was able to envision every single detail as described. This makes me love Nicola Haken’s writing all the more. She took a very heavy, very difficult problem and made you walk through it from all sides…as Dexter, as Emily and even all the supporting characters and how they were affected. This is an incredible follow up to Take My Hand and I cannot wait for books three and four — Lean on Me (#3) and Never Let Go (#4). The story ended in a way that is going to drive you nuts and though I had my suspicions, the ending still got to me. 

I highly recommend this book for my new adult/adult fiction/contemporary romance fans. This is an intense book and not recommended for readers under 18 due to language, explicit drug use, and sexual content. 

 

Author BioNicola Haken

Nicola lives in Rochdale, England with her husband and four children (six if you include the dogs!) She is the author of New Adult/Contemporary romance novels Inevitable, Saving Amy and the Take My Hand series. When she is not busy playing with her imaginary book friends (or talking about them with real life friends!) she can usually be found carrying out her ordinary mum/housewife/all round slave duties. Oh, and if the kids ever ask, she moonlights as the Pink Power Ranger while they’re sleeping…

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MissLittleBookAddict’s House Of Books / Rumpled Book Blog / Wolfel’s World of Books / Sam’s Book Basket / My Daily Romance / Will Read for Coffee / Book Fanatic

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Ramblings of a Book Lunatic / Mia’s Point of View / Bookaholics / Tiffany Talks Books / I ♥ Bookie Nookie Reviews / Debbie The Book Vixen

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Kindle Steals $3.99 and Under…Plus Upcoming Releases

Here is a list of kindle steals priced between $0.99 and $3.99 as well as a few anticipated book releases and their pre-order links.

Prices are subject to change without notice.

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Release Day Blitz: Jessica Sorensen’s The Destiny of Violet & Luke (The Coincidence #3)

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The Destiny of Violet & Luke Synopsis 

Luke Price’s life has always been about order, control, and acting tough on the outside. For Luke, meaningless relationships are a distraction-a way to tune out the twisted memories of his childhood. He desperately wishes he could forget his past, but it haunts him no matter what he does.

Violet Hayes has had a rough life. When she was young, she was left with no family and the memory of her parents’ unsolved murders. She grew up in foster homes, living with irresponsible parents, drugs, and neglect, and trying to fight the painful memories of the night her parents were taken from her. But it’s hard to forget when she never got closure-and she can’t stop dreaming about what happened that tragic night. To make it through life, she keeps her distance from everyone and never allows herself to feel anything.

Then Violet meets Luke. The two clash instantly, yet they can’t seem to stay away from each other. Although they fight it, they both start to open up and feel things they’ve never felt before. They discover just how similar they are. But they also discover something else: The past always catches up with you . . .

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 JessicaSorensenAuthor Bio

The New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, Jessica Sorensen, lives with her husband and three kids. When she’s not writing, she spends her time reading and hanging out with her family.

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Excerpt

Luke

She reaches for my fries with an undecided look on her face. “So I have a question.”

“Okay…”

“About you.”

I slowly chew my food. “I’m not really sure I want to hear your question now.”

She picks a pickle off of her burger, pulling a repulsed face. “Well, I’m still going to ask it.”

I grab a handful of fries from the tray that’s on the table between us. “Go ahead and ask but it doesn’t mean I’ll answer.”

She props her elbows onto the table with her burger in her hand. “Why haven’t you ever talked to me before? I mean, we’ve walked past each other probably a hundred times, but never so much as acknowledged each other and then suddenly you’re stalking me.”

I pick up my soda and sip from the straw. “First off, I’m not stalking you. I just can’t seem to get rid of you.”

“You didn’t have to stop to pick me up.”

“Yeah, I did.”

“Why? You don’t know me—you’re in no way obligated to help me.”

“I know, but I wanted to.”

“Why?”

I shrug, setting my drink down. “Why not?”

She gives me a funny look, like I’m the most confusing person in the world, when really she should be looking at herself like that. “I don’t get it. Why would someone like you help someone like me?”

I open up the bun of my chicken sandwich to pick the tomato off. “What do you mean someone like me and someone like you?”

She points at me. “You as in a football player who has friends.” Then she points at herself. “And me as in the loner girl who could probably kick your ass.”

I choke on a laugh and my mouth full of food almost shoots out of my nose. “You could not kick my ass,” I cough, and then take a swallow of my drink.

She scans me over while scooping up some fries. “I beg to differ. I think you’re not as tough as you try to look.”

“Do you really?” If only she knew what really lay inside me. “Because most people think I am and for a good reason.”

“I think it’s all for show,” she replies nonchalantly and I can’t tell if she’s being serious or not. “I think that deep down you’re just a softy.”

“Are you trying to pick a fight with me right now?” I set my sandwich down on the tray and crack my knuckles. “Because I’m not going to fight a girl.”

“That’s such a typical guy answer.” She hurries and takes a drink, but I detect a hint of a smile before her lips wrap around the straw.

“You know what I think?” I cross my arms on the table and lean in, cocking my head to the side as I observe her closely. “I think you like arguing with me and that’s why you’re bringing this up.”

Her shoulders lift and descend as she takes a bite of her hamburger. “Maybe, but maybe I’m being serious.”

“You know that as a football player I have to tackle guys, right? It takes strength to do that.”

“Maybe you just run, though,” she counters. “Maybe you’re just good at running.”

The way she says it reminds me so much of my past and it’s like a kick to the stomach. “Maybe I’m not, though. Maybe I suck at running.” I sound choked and I decide it’s time to cut this conversation short, my brain seeking that potent taste of Jack and Tequila mixed with nicotine. I glance at my watch, pretending to check the time. “I just remembered that I have to meet Kayden somewhere in like a half an hour, so I’m going to have to take you back.”

She balls up the wrapper for her hamburger, acting nonchalant, but her shoulders are stiff. “Sounds good to me. I was done anyway.” She seems irritated and I have no idea why, other than she seems to be able to read through my bullshit and test me, which most people can’t and won’t even try. I’m supposed to be a closed book. A mystery. That way no one can see who I really am. It’s the way I’ve been living for years and it’s comfortable. Not ideal, but nothing is ideal.

We don’t talk as I collect our garbage and then walk next to her as she limps out to my truck. I try to offer her my arm and open the door for her, but she denies my offer, moving to the opposite door and pushing it open.

During the car ride, she barely says two words to me. I should be happy about it. That way there’s no room for sudden questions and statements that will set me off, however I find myself missing the bantering thing we had going and the way she pushed my buttons. By the time I drop her off, all I want to do is ask her to stay, talk some more, let me get to know her. But I don’t understand why. I’ve never wanted to get to know anyone before. I’ve never even been out on a date. Each woman I’ve been with, I’ve only been with once. Just sex. That’s all it’s ever about. And I’ve never wanted anything more.

Until now.

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That’s a Promise (Promises, Promises #1)

Publications Date: December 10, 2013
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Synopsis:
This book is book one in a three part series, so not all matters are resolved at the end of the novel. It is also meant for ages 18+ due to yummy adult content 😉
Happily ever after doesn’t exist. Not just in the romantic sense, but in the sense that there will never be a point in life that will contain no more obstacles.
Josie Sommers is a nerdy twenty four year old, elementary school teacher who has always considered herself a strong person. But with the loss of a loved one and the return of someone she vowed to never see again, her strength starts to break.
When he betrayed her in the ultimate way, she never thought she would let him back into her life, let alone open herself up to falling back in love with him.
Plagued with resentment and the burden of her own dishonesty,
Josie has to decide if forgiving and coming clean is worth the risk of losing him again. With so many hurdles, we know that Josie’s story is no fairytale.
That’s a promise.

 

 

Review:  

*This was an ARC provided to me for free in exchange for an honest review.  All thoughts and comments are my own.*

That’s a Promise is a pretty powerful read. It deals with some heavy issues and reminded me slightly of Ten Tiny Breaths. I really enjoyed this book and completed it in one sitting. I am impressed that this is the author’s debut and extremely grateful to have been asked to read an ARC. I did have some issues with the editing, but that didn’t take away from the story as those were minor issues. I’m going to be as vague as possible because I do feel this is a great story with the potential to be a great series, but I don’t want to take away from the experience for anyone so I will give away as little as possible. 
Now, where do I begin? This is a book that consists of a lot of conflict. Honesty plays a vital role with many of the relationships forged as well as forgiveness. I’m still not entirely sure how I feel about the direction the author took with the romance/love triangle…partially because I myself am confused. I’m not entirely sure who I want Josie to be with, but I am partial to one individual. Let me say, I did fall in love with both men BUT I am leaning towards one of the guys more so than the other and I’m not sure many readers would agree with me here. In fact, I’d really like some feedback after you guys read this one so shoot me an email or comment below. I’d love to know who you’re rooting for!
Josie is conflicted, confused and deeply scarred, but the more you get to know her, the more you understand her dilemma, the more you love her and want to see things turn out well for her. She’s young and yet her life experiences have aged her. Things are complicated and nothing comes easy or simply for Josie. She’s doing exactly what someone her age should be doing, she’s living, making mistakes, loving hard, experiencing loss and trying to figure shit out. She’s convinced that she’s found her soulmate yet her decisions make the reader question her certainty and as you learn more about each character involved in her life, you begin to peel back layers and learn much more than what’s on the surface. I have to reiterate the fact that I found this book deep. Perhaps I am a bit biased in having experienced some of the same loss Josie had but the story overall is one that just makes you relate to it in one aspect or another. Josie is a strong woman that has endured a lot of pain and by the end of this book you will be in awe of her resilience. There will be times when you are angry, sad, hurt or simply unsure of how to feel, but you will get emotional at one point or another as there are quite a few moments that may strike a chord for you as many things in this book are relatable. This book is real, raw and utterly addicting. 
By the end of the book matters are certainly not resolved, but I enjoyed the fact that this wasn’t the usual happily ever after and that things were more realistic, the protagonist is flawed as most of the characters are. This makes the them more realistic. You will fall in love with them and they will weave their way into your heart. Although the final book may have a happy ending, this book leads me to believe that journey definitely won’t be an easy one.
This book goes between present day and past/flashbacks. I enjoyed how the author tied everything together, but from the beginning you pretty much know something bad happened to Josie. It’s just a matter of time before you get the full story and even then things get crazier. There is a bit of a cliffhanger…eh not really a cliffhanger, but definitely an, “OMG I can’t wait to see what happens next” moment. I really enjoyed this read and I think you will too. I recommend this for new adult/contemporary romance fans.
The purchase and goodreads links are at the top of this post, an excerpt is below along with the author bio/contact info and of course an awesome giveaway!

 

Excerpt: 

“You are gorgeous, as always, Josie.” He turned me around and brought his lips to mine. He kissed me slowly, and I could feel myself getting heated. He grabbed my hand and pulled me towards the bed. I was a little embarrassed when he started undressing us, unable to believe that I agreed to do something so risqué. He position me in a particular way, and went back to his cameras to make sure his shot was right and to set up timers on them.

“Okay, don’t think about the cameras,” he said, coming back to me.
He started sucking on my neck as his hands roamed my thighs, stomach, and then my chest. I tried to ignore the cameras and focused on his tongue and mouth on me. ClickHe brought one of my breasts into his mouth and sucked on my hard nipple. His tongue always knew how to make my body feel good. ClickI moved my hands into his shaggy sandy blonde hair, and arched my back, needing more of him. Click. Seth aligned his chest with mine, and went back to assault my neck as I moved my hands to rub his shoulders and arms.  Click. His other hand that wasn’t fondling my breast, moved its way in between my legs, and rubbed me. I gasped at the feeling of increased pressure on my clit. Click. His fingers really were magical. It didn’t take me long before both the pressure of his mouth on my neck and breasts and the rubbing of his fingers against me, made me come. Click. “So sexy,” he whispered, before putting on the condom he had ready on the bed. His eyes were hooded with desire. He positioned himself in front of me and moved my long hair in a way that covered my breasts. Click. He eased inside of me gently, and then pulled back out fast. Click. He teased me like that for a while, as I whimpered with need. I decided to sit up and grab onto his back, nearly clawing him to finally give me what I needed. I started to raise my hips to his at a better rhythm, loving the small whimper that came out of his mouth. Click. 

 

 

VK bio picAuthor Bio: 

Victoria Klahr (pronounced like “Claire”) lives in Elizabeth City, North Carolina with her husband and daughter, Stephen and Alexis. She loves her chug (Pug/Chihuahua), Bandit, and three year old to pieces. She loves to stay home and take care of them, even if they do drive her insane at times. She is a huge and proud book nerd who looks at her bookshelf in admiration daily. She has her Associate’s degree in Business Administration, but her passion has always been the stories that talk to her in her head. One day she decided to take a chance and let the voices write her story. She has never felt more certain or comfortable about who she is than when she writes.

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Pieces For You (For You #2) Book Review

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Synopsis 

“The phoenix hope, can wing her way through the desert skies,
and still defying fortune’s spite; revive from ashes and rise.” -Miguel de Cervantes

Samantha Whitney survived unimaginable tragedy only to discover she had been betrayed by a man who claimed to love her. Shattered, Sam spends months at a safe haven trying to piece herself back together. Ready or not, the time has come for her to return home.

As Sam struggles to resume a life that no longer feels familiar, she finds unwavering support in an unexpected, familiar face. Confronting Sam’s raw emotions and open wounds head-on, Griffin manages to take two steps forward for every step she retreats. 

But when Sam is once again threatened, Griffin must decide how far he is willing to go to protect the woman he wants…knowing the cost of her safety is the risk of losing her.

Pieces For You is a captivating journey of survival, healing, and sacrifice—teeming with honesty, humor, unexpected twists, and love’s unsurpassed endurance begin to plague Sam, it is Griffin she is forced to turn to.

This story is appropriate for readers 18+
Though Pieces For You is a part of the For You Series, the book can be read as a stand alone. 

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Review

I don’t even know what to say other than…..

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This book is flipping phenomenal, amazing, superb, excellent, superior, intelligent, purposefully written, sparkling cider…ok, now I’m just being silly, but it really is a spectacular read and a wonderful follow up to Only For You. It has the same vibe as Only For You in that it keeps you guessing until the very end, the author maintains her wit and humor while dealing with some heavy subject matter. I loved the character development, the introduction of new characters and I loved how invested I became in Griffin and Sam’s relationship as with Hunter and Ev! 

Let me take a step back and say if you have NOT already read Only For You…what are you waiting for???? 

Read my review of Only For You —–> HERE 
So, back to Pieces For You…AND Griffin….

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Yeah, I’d take a Hunter-Griffin sandwich any day hehe. Seriously smitten…Genna Rulon easily grabs your attention, holds it and makes you fall in love with most of her characters in the process. I say most because there are some you won’t like very much…may even hate, but she will absolutely make you feel!

This book is heavy and deals with Sam’s issues primarily, though other characters are introduced and past relationships developed (and well developed I might add). This is a book about taking charge of your life and moving forward, finding love, growing, healing and living! I love Sam, I am in awe of all she went through and how she got through it. She was broken in Only For You and she becomes this amazing woman in Pieces For You. I don’t want to spoil the read, there’s lots of heavy, lots of witty and definitely lots of sexxxxxy! My eyes bulged quite a few times while reading. This is a book that will captivate you. I finished in one sitting and I don’t doubt you will be unable to put the book down until it’s done. I CANNOT wait for the next book. Genna Rulon has easily become one of my favorite authors of 2013 and this series has stuck with me in many ways and sadly for some of my favorite authors I have to say these two books are probably the best new adult books I’ve read to date! 

I don’t know if I should go into too much detail about the characters, but for those who have read Only For You, there is plenty more Ev and Hunter! You will be completely satisfied! For those, like me who fell in love with Griffin in book one, you will fall even deeper this time around. I may love him more than any other book boyfriend. He is the perfect. If you’re in the mood to fall in love….I highly recommend this read. You’re sure to swoon….

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Favorite Quote

“Lo, you could never disappoint me. If you’re honest with me and yourself, you have no reason to worry. No one’s unblemished, we all have our scars — some are just easier to hide. The right man will navigate the minefield and bring you to the other side safely. He will find a way to give you the pleasure you deserve, no matter what it takes. You are worth the effort,”

Buy Pieces for You (For You, #2) 

 

A portion of the proceeds from Pieces For You will be donated to RAINN (Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network) 

 

Buy Only For You (For You, #1) 
 

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About the Author:  

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After 15 years in the corporate world, Genna, an avid reader, fantasized about penning her own stories. Encouraged by the success of her favorite authors, many of whom are self-published, she committed to pursuing her aspirations.

Genna was raised in Long Island, New York, where she still resides, surrounded by the most extraordinary family and friends. Married to a wonderful man, who patiently tolerates her ramblings about whichever book she is currently working on (he even feigns interest relatively convincingly). Genna is blessed with two little boys who do their best to thwart mommy’s writing time with their hilarious antics and charming extrapolations.

All of Genna’s novels are brought to you courtesy of coffee and Disney Junior. 

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Behind His Lens

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Synopsis:

Twenty-three year old model Charley Whitlock built a quiet life for herself after disaster struck four years ago. She hides beneath her beautiful mask, never revealing her true self to the world… until she comes face-to-face with her new photographer — sexy, possessive Jude Anderson. It’s clear from the first time she meets him that she’s playing by his rules. He says jump, she asks how high. He tells her to unzip her cream Dior gown; she knows she has to comply. But what if she wants him to take charge outside of the studio as well?

Jude Anderson has a strict “no model” dating policy. But everything about Charley sets his body on fire.

When a tropical photo shoot in Hawaii forces the stubborn pair into sexually charged situations, their chemistry can no longer be ignored. They’ll have to decide if they’re willing to break their rules and leave the past behind or if they’ll stay consumed by their demons forever.

Will Jude persuade Charley to give in to her deepest, most forbidden desires?

**Recommended for ages 17+ due to language and sexual situations.**

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Review

Hot, steamy, sexy and completely unputdownable!!! 
I thoroughly enjoyed this erotic read. Jude, Jude, Jude….oh I need him in my life! 
This book is a fun and sexy debut.

Charley has a tragic past and has tried to busy herself with modeling gigs and painting to fill the void. When she walks on set of her newest assignment and locks eyes with Jude all hope is lost. She’s completely smitten, but Charley has secrets that haunt her. They’ve consumed her thoughts and caused her to put up walls. She’s closed herself off to most of the world for the better part of four years, but something about Jude draws her in. He’s hot, but his moods shift from full on asshole to full on hearthrob within minutes. He’s a puzzle and though Charley longs to know more about him, he’s got his own barriers up.  

Jude’s past is one filled with pain and has forever changed him. He uses women for his own pleasure and moves on. He’s not the monogamous type yet no matter how hard he tries to shake his feelings for Charley, he can’t. The attraction is undeniable and he’s drawn to her like a magnet. From his first encounter with Charley he can’t rid his thoughts of her and the growing feelings each new encounter produces. 

Both struggle to contain their feelings and a new assignment forces the two together placing them in dangerously close proximity. Will these two face their issues head on and admit their growing attraction?

This is a lovely debut. The romance is hot, fresh and gives the reader something to hope for while keeping you guessing. I loved the artistic perspective and descriptive language. This is a great read for romance/new adult and erotica fans. 

*This book was an ARC provided to me for free in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and comments are my own.*


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About the Author 

I am a lover of books, chocolate, reality TV, metaphors and similes, black labs, and cold weather. Seriously, if I had it my way I would be curled up on the couch with all of those things… everyday.

I was born and raised in Texas where I spend my free time writing and reading. My favorite authors are Mindy Kaling & Jonathan Safran Foer. I’m a comedy geek and love all things “funny”. Women like Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, and Mindy Kaling are definitely the biggest inspirations for my writing, though I think my work tends to skew a bit smuttier than theirs.;)

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Reborn (The Guardian Trilogy #3) Cover Reveal!!!

A Note from the Author: 
Happy Holidays Readers!  This year has been crazy-good in ways I’ve never imagined, mostly thanks to all of you, your support, and your love for James, Emma, and Dane.  I can’t wait to share this chapter of their story with you (and neither can they!); February 1st can’t get here
fast enough!
 
As a special gift to you, here’s an early look at the cover and synopsis of Reborn.  I hope you love it just as much as I do; Emma finally has a face, and she’s perfect.  Of course, I’ll be sharing more of Reborn in January; keep your eyes open for teasers and giveaways 😉  Until then, here’s wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
 
Yours, Sara Mack

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Synopsis

You don’t know what you’ve got until it’s gone.

When Emma Donohue wakes to find her world turned upside down, she wants nothing more than to return to the life she knew.  To a life filled with a loving family, close friends, and college classes.  To a normal life that didn’t involve the supernatural, odd bracelets, or three strangers who refuse to leave her side.

Unsure of what truly happened during The Allegiant’s attack, Emma tries to reconcile her past with her growing feelings for James, Garrett, and Dane.  They remain steadfast in her protection, awaiting the arrival of the only people who hold the answers.

The Larvatus. 

When Madeline and Ash appear, the revelations they bring not only rock Emma’s world, but everyone she touches.  Her mind is twisted, caught up in new abilities and new desires.  Her old self forgotten, she has never been more scared.  She has never been more confused.

She has never been more empowered. 

You don’t know what you’ve got until it’s gone.

 But, sometimes, the absence leaves space for something better. 

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 Reborn is slated for release February 1, 2014  

 

Profile PicAbout the Author 

Sara Mack is a Michigan native who grew up with her nose in books. She is a wife and a hockey mom on top of being trapped in a windowless office forty hours a week. Her spare time is spent one-clicking on Amazon and devouring books on her Kindle, cleaning up after her kids and two elderly cats, attempting to keep her flower garden alive, and, of course, writing. She has an unnatural affinity for dark chocolate, iced tea, and bacon. Guardian is her debut novel.  

 

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REVIVING IZABEL (In The Company of Killers #2) Release Event

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REVIVING IZABEL (In The Company of Killers #2)

By Bestselling Author J.A. Redmerski

An Adult Suspense 

Killing Sarai (In the Company of Killers, #1) is on sale for .99 cents for the release of Reviving Izabel!

Killing Sarai: Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Kobo   

 

SYNOPSIS

Determined to live a dark life in the company of the assassin who freed her from bondage, Sarai sets out on her own to settle a score with an evil sadist. Unskilled and untrained in the art of killing, the events that unfold leave her hanging precariously on the edge of death when nothing goes as planned.

Sarai’s reckless choices send her on a path she knows she can never turn back from and so she presents Victor with an ultimatum: help her become more like him and give her a fighting chance, or she’ll do it alone no matter the consequences. Knowing that Sarai cannot become what she wants to be overnight, Victor begins to train her and inevitably their complicated relationship heats up.

As Arthur Hamburg’s right-hand man, Willem Stephens, closes in on his crusade to destroy Sarai, she is left with the crushing realization that she may have bitten off more than she can chew. But Sarai, taking on the new and improved role of Izabel Seyfried, still has a set of deadly skills of her own that will prove to be all she needs to secure her place beside Victor.

But there is one test that Izabel must face that has the potential to destroy everything she is working so hard to achieve. One final test that will not only make her question her decision to want this dangerous life, but will make her question everything she has come to trust about Victor Faust.

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Check out my review of Killing Sarai & Reviving Izabel  

 

Excerpt 

Victor’s car stops at the mouth of the alley, the brakes squealing to a halt on the street. He gets out leaving the door open and rushes toward us.

“I’ve got it under control,” I say and I look down at Andre next to my feet.

I’ve knocked him out, but not for long because he begins to stir awake when Victor grabs him by the backs of his arms and pulls him to his feet.

“You were supposed to lead him to the parking lot,” Victor snaps.

Andre begins to struggle as Victor drags him toward the car.

“I said I had it under control,” I snap back. “You see I’m not the one that ended up on the ground.”

“What the fuck’s going on?” Andre calls out, trying to fight his way out of Victor’s arms.

Victor shoves him in the backseat, face-down, and plants his knee in his back as he secures his hands behind him with a plastic zip tie.

“Get in,” Victor demands.

I do as he says, rushing around to the passenger’s side and shutting the door.

“Who the fuck are you?! What’s going on? Answer me!”

Andre’s voice is vociferous behind me, filling the small space in the car.

Victor turns around against the seat, leans over it at the stomach and punches Andre so hard he knocks him out cold.

“Thanks,” I say as Victor sits back down and puts the car in Drive. “I was about to go deaf.”

“I didn’t hit him for shouting,” Victor says without looking at me.

I glance over at him as he carefully weaves the car down the thin streets lined with tightly packed cars on either side.

“I hit him because he put his hands on you,” he says.

I turn my face toward the side window, hiding my smile from him.

BUY REVIVING IZABEL NOW: 

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About the Author  

Born November 25, 1975, J.A. (Jessica Ann) Redmerski is a New York Times, USA Today and Wall Street Journal bestselling author. She lives in North Little Rock, Arkansas with her three children and a Maltese. She is a lover of television and books that push boundaries and is a huge fan of AMC’s The Walking Dead.

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Giveaway:

(3) Signed print copy sets of Killing Sarai and Reviving Izabel  – International  

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Elect (Eagle Elite, #2) by Rachel Van Dyken

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Synopsis

Would you die for the one you love?

Nixon Abandonato made his choice. And now he has to pay the price. Tracey is the love of his life, but being with him has made her a target of his family’s enemies. The only way to keep Trace alive is convince the world she means nothing to him.

Trace Rooks has fallen irrevocably in love with the son of her family’s sworn rival, and she knows in her bones nothing can tear them apart. Until Nix suddenly pushes her away and into the arms of his best friend… But Trace isn’t ready to give up on a future with Nix–and if he won’t fight for them, she will.
In the end, a sacrifice must be made. A life for a life. For what better way to cover a multitude of sins than with the blood of a sinner . . .

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Excerpt 

“Let’s make a pact.” Chase put his hand on my shoulder.

“A pact?” I sniffled and turned to him. “What kind of pact?”

“One that’s forever. One that protects people rather than hurts them.”

“How do we do that?” I was suddenly interested. What if I could make all the hurt go away? What if I could save everyone!

“We do this.” Chase pulled out his pocketknife and cut open his hand, then nodded to me to do the same thing. Without pausing I cut open my hand and handed back the knife. “Blood brothers. We’re never gonna hurt each other and we’re gonna save those like your ma, Nixon. Ones who can’t save themselves. We’re going to protect them.”

“How?” I watched as the blood dripped from my open palm.

“Rules.” Chase shrugged. “They keep people safe, right? At least that’s what my mom says.” He smiled. “We make rules and we start our own club. That way, we don’t have to listen to anyone but us.”

I liked it. I chewed on my lower lip. “What do we call ourselves?”

“The chosen?” Chase offered.

“No, that sounds lame. We have to sound… more powerful than that.”

My eyes flickered to the road, and a sign poked into the ground. It said election. “Elect.” I pointed. “Let’s call ourselves The Elect.” It made sense; after all, the president was elected, wasn’t he? We weren’t exactly chosen, but we were making the choice, we were electing ourselves protectors. That’s what we were.

“Who else can join?” Chase asked.

“Tex and Phoenix. They’ll want to.” A weight suddenly felt like it was being lifted off my twelve-year-old shoulders. “Should we shake on it?”

“Yeah.” Chase smashed his hand against mine as our blood mixed. “No going back, Nixon.”

“No.” I shook my head. “No going back.”

I pressed my fingers to my temples and watched, replaying that moment over and over again in my head as the outline of Chase and Tracey flickered in the moonlight. Would he really do this to me? After all the shit we’d been through?

I gauged her reaction, hoping that I would be wrong. Praying to God that Trace would just this once listen to me. Her eyes flickered with interest for a few brief seconds before she looked down at the ground.

“Shit.” I waited in the shadows. A part of me knew this would happen. The part that told me to damn my feelings to hell and ignore all the warning signs that I’d been seeing. But now it seemed like it was too late. I stayed, planted where I was, watching, waiting.

“Chase, you can’t…” Trace shook her head. “You can’t be like this. We can’t do this!”

“We aren’t doing anything,” Chase said in low tones, reaching for Trace’s hand. “Don’t you?” He looked directly at me, although all he saw was a shadow. I knew I was well hidden. “Don’t you feel the same way?”

Trace jerked her hand away from Chase’s. “It doesn’t matter what I feel. It’s not about me, Chase.”

“But it is.” Chase reached for her again. This time her hand grasped his in such an intimate embrace I thought I was going to vomit all over the ground. The outside air was cold as hell as little pieces of ice tried to find their way into my wool coat.

“It isn’t.” Trace sighed. “It never was.”

Chase jerked her toward him. She fell against his chest and looked up into his eyes. “What are you doing?”

Chase sighed. “What I should have done a long time ago.” He grabbed the back of her head and pulled her in for a kiss. Their lips touched.

I had to look away.

The only sound in the night was that of my soft footsteps as I walked away… leaving my heart in broken pieces where I’d last stood. She was lost to me; it wasn’t even the Sicilians that had taken her, but my best friend.

A gunshot rang out loud and clear in the night air. I turned back around just in time to see Trace collapse into Chase’s arms.

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About the Author

Rachel Van Dyken is the New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author of regency and contemporary romances. When she’s not writing you can find her drinking coffee at Starbucks and plotting her next book while watching The Bachelor. She keeps her home in Idaho with her Husband and their snoring Boxer, Sir Winston Churchill. She loves to hear from readers! You can follow her writing journey at http://rachelvandykenauthor.com/

 

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Elect Mafia Game

 

GIVEAWAY

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5 WINNER: SIGNED Forever gift bag, Signed PRINT copy of ELITE (to catch you up on the series!)
5 WINNERS: 5 digital copies of ELITE

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Killing Sarai & Reviving Izabel Review

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Synopsis 

From the author of the New York Times, USA Today & Wall Street Journal bestselling novel, THE EDGE OF NEVER, comes a story of passion and survival… 

Sarai was only fourteen when her mother uprooted her to live in Mexico with a notorious drug lord. Over time she forgot what it was like to live a normal life, but she never let go of her hope to escape the compound where she has been held for the past nine years.

Victor is a cold-blooded assassin who, like Sarai, has known only death and violence since he was a young boy. When Victor arrives at the compound to collect details and payment for a hit, Sarai sees him as her only opportunity for escape. But things don’t go as planned and instead of finding transport back to Tucson, she finds herself free from one dangerous man and caught in the clutches of another.

While on the run, Victor strays from his primal nature as he succumbs to his conscience and resolves to help Sarai. As they grow closer, he finds himself willing to risk everything to keep her alive; even his relationship with his devoted brother and liaison, Niklas, who now like everyone else wants Sarai dead.

As Victor and Sarai slowly build a trust, the differences between them seem to lessen, and an unlikely attraction intensifies. But Victor’s brutal skills and experience may not be enough in the end to save her, as the power she unknowingly holds over him may ultimately be what gets her killed.

This is their story… 

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 Purchase Killing Sarai, (In the Company of Killers, #1) for only 99 Pennies!!! 

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 This book is slated for release December 10, 2013 

 

Synopsis

Determined to live a dark life in the company of the assassin who freed her from bondage, Sarai sets out on her own to settle a score with an evil sadist. Unskilled and untrained in the art of killing, the events that unfold leave her hanging precariously on the edge of death when nothing goes as planned. 

Sarai’s reckless choices send her on a path she knows she can never turn back from and so she presents Victor with an ultimatum: help her become more like him and give her a fighting chance, or she’ll do it alone no matter the consequences. Knowing that Sarai cannot become what she wants to be overnight, Victor begins to train her and inevitably their complicated relationship heats up. 

As Arthur Hamburg’s right-hand man, Willem Stephens, closes in on his crusade to destroy Sarai, she is left with the crushing realization that she may have bitten off more than she can chew. But Sarai, taking on the new and improved role of Izabel Seyfried, still has a set of deadly skills of her own that will prove to be all she needs to secure her place beside Victor.

But there is one test that Izabel must face that has the potential to destroy everything she is working so hard to achieve. One final test that will not only make her question her decision to want this dangerous life, but will make her question everything she has come to trust about Victor Faust. 

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Review 

It appears J.A. Redmerski and I share the same birth month! Perhaps that is why I am such a fan…hehe. I can appreciate a fellow Sagittarius’ creativity. With the upcoming release of Reviving Izabel, the second installment in the In the Company of Killers series, I wanted to provide a brief review of both Killing Sarai and Reviving Izabel

I don’t think I can adequately put into words my feelings on Reviving Izabel, (In the Company of Killers, Book #2).  In fact, I don’t think I can even do so with Killing Sarai. I received Reviving Izabel as an advanced copy from the author and I dropped everything I was doing to read it…I finished it in a few hours and I am still going through withdrawal hehe. This book is a complex blend of dark and dangerous, sexy, earth shattering, toe curling, and lustful desire. I don’t know how J.A. Redmerski did it, but she managed to make a brutal, action packed book into one of the sexiest novels I’ve read in a while. This book has a little something for everyone and I…LOVED…EVERY…MINUTE…OF…IT!!!!

Let me begin by expressing my heartfelt love for Killing Sarai, (In the Company of Killers, Book #1). The book is so far from what I would’ve expected from J.A. Redmerski, especially after reading The Edge of Never series…yet another book I fell head over heels in love with! I digress. Anyway, after reading Killing Sarai, I never posted a proper review…so I will give you my thoughts on it briefly…it fuckin rocks!!! However, it isn’t all roses and sweet words and a happily ever after! It’s raw, brutal and gritty! The main character Sarai has been sold to a drug lord. She becomes his “favorite” girl and though she is living in hell, she’s certainly treated better than most. She’s protected in a way because of his attachment to her, but Sarai wants out, she yearns to escape and never look back so when an opportunity presents itself via Victor Faust, she jumps at the opportunity. Sarai knows her chances with Victor are about as good as living on the Mexican compound but she needs to take a chance if there is any way she can escape. Things get a bit…messy between the two, but slowly they come to a mutual understanding. Their attraction to one another is intense and the build up is insane, but these feelings are problematic for someone in Victor’s line of work, with Sarai’s life in danger and Victor risking his neck to help her, will these two find a way to help one another while staying in each others lives?

Killing Sarai is an absolute must read. I cannot express to you enough how much I loved it. The only problem I encountered reading it was Reviving Izabel wasn’t even in the process of being written so I had to patiently wait on the continuation of this beloved story! If you haven’t already done so, you have the opportunity to read both beginning December 10th!!!! I highly recommend this book to all readers there is something for everyone.

Now, moving on to Reviving Izabel…. this book is PHENOMENAL! The story continues with Sarai who is trying to pick up the pieces of her life in a somewhat normal manner, her thoughts of being Izabel Seyfried haunt her daily. She’s out for blood and a chance to prove she’s cut out for the life of an assassin. She wants more than anything to prove she can handle herself, especially to the one man that consumes her thoughts daily – Victor Faust. Her commitment comes with a price,  will Sarai aka Izabel be up for the task or will she realize this may not be the life for her after all?

I feel if I go any more in depth with my review, I may reveal too much. I was definitely surprised at a few things that happened throughout the book. There are a lot of twists and turns, scary moments, drama, violence and then there are some ahem..some really hot, really, um :::fans self, opens window, takes a deep breath:::, let’s just say this book is as hot and steamy as it is brutal and dark. I don’t know how, but J.A. Redmerski was able to capture the essence of both a romance and a dark work of fiction. She blended the two together perfectly creating a masterpiece and the perfect follow-up to an already amazing Killing Sarai. These books are must-reads on my list and I recommend them for all readers (ok…except young adults and children…this is definitely a mature read…so make sure you can hang before opening this one!)  

*This book was an ARC provided to me for free in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and comments are my own.*

 

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Only for You Blog Tour

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Synopsis
“In its purest form love is self-sacrificing, eternal, selfless, enduring, truthful, forgiving and indulgent. It also feels an awful lot like a kick to the stomach when you try to fight it!” 

 

All Everleigh Carsen wanted to do was complete her final semester at Hensley University and begin the life she carefully planned.
When a wave of violent crime seizes campus, Everleigh is persuaded to attend a school sponsored self-defense seminar by her best friend, where she meets volunteer instructor, Hunter Charles. After Everleigh’s biting sarcasm induces Hunter to eject her from class, a tempestuous relationship is born. 
Everleigh is determined to forget the striking man, but fate—that fickle shrew—continuously intervenes. Unable to escape him, she declares Hunter an enemy combatant.  The only complication…Hunter is resolutely pursuing vindication…by any means necessary. Verbal warfare ensues, and despite Everleigh’s ingenious efforts, in Hunter, she has finally found her equal.
Only For You is a compelling tale of friendship, desire, and redemption—brimming with intelligent characters, witty dialogue, unexpected twists, profound sorrow, unfettered hope, and love’s unassailable perseverance.  

 

*Note:  Although this is series, each novel can be read as a stand alone.

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My Review 
Genna Rulon’s debut novel Only For You is a exceptional, extraordinary, fantastic and all that other good stuff! Some of this may be redundant, but for those of you who have not read Only For You I sincerely suggest that you take a moment to order yourself a copy!!! This is a book you’ll fall in love with, you’ll likely cry and you’ll certainly want to know more. The follow-up novel Pieces for You is slated for release this month. 
There is always one book that absolutely blows your mind when you finish, you sit back for a moment to reflect but all you can think is…”wow.” After reading Genna Rulon’s Only For You I must say, I was rendered speechless. I was completely taken by surprise. The authors use of clever and witty banter, sarcasm and general humor made me fall in love with this book.
I actually discussed with her briefly via email how a lot of new adult books were beginning to disinterest me as too many had similar plots and even dialogue. Don’t get me wrong, I’m still a die hard fan of new adult books, but I am at a point where I read so many books in a week that when I read an ARC or even a book I purchase of my own accord it needs to completely blow me away to stand out. This book does that and more. I found a gem amongst stones in Only For You. This book is unique in plot, dialogue, and it completely shocked the hell out of me at times. I am usually very good at figuring out how a book will end or what direction the author will likely take things, and I usually figure everything out midway through, but Only For You sure as hell surprised me. This book took so many twists and turns it was difficult to know where it would end. My jaw literally dropped close to the end at some revelations that were made. I was suspicious of ever person in this book at one point or another. I won’t give away any spoilers, but it ended beautifully and made me scream that I had to wait until December for the next installment…but yay we’re finally here and the release is only a few short weeks away!
This book is a complex blend of romance, mystery, friendship and anguish. There are moments that will have you cackling while other moments will leave you in tears, though some of those tears may have been induced by laughter.  The blooming friendship/romance, witty dialogue, inner monologues and suspicions will have you holding your breath and leave your heart racing. I experienced all of these emotions while reading Only For You. I have no doubt that most readers will likely have a similar experience which will result in a rather emotional journey. 
Only For You is classified as a new adult book, but I firmly believe it could fall outside of the romance genre bordering mystery, suspense and even sociology/abuse. The book is REAL. I mean it has some really raw, fucked up moments that made you want to cry out for the people afflicted. I certainly cried, but I also laughed…a lot. The witty banter between characters is unmatched to any book I’ve ever read and I’d go so far as to nominate Genna Rulon’s writing and one of the wittiest and most sarcastic…
I adore this book. I devoured it and love the characters. I am completely smitten with Hunter AND Griffin!!! I’ve officially slitted myself out to them mentally! Yeah, that’s right they don’t call me a Book Whore for no reason! Genna…I want more…no, I need more!!!!
With that said, Only For You is probably one of the best new adult books I’ve read to date. I give it 5 stars, 2 thumbs up, 10 fingers and toes lol. I highly recommend this to anyone who wants a suspenseful romance with twists, turns and some heartache along the way while leaving you with an ending that will make your jaw drop, your heart smile and your stomach flutter. 

*This book was an ARC provided to me for free in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and comments are my own.*

Buy the book:

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About the Author:  

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After 15 years in the corporate world, Genna, an avid reader, fantasized about penning her own stories. Encouraged by the success of her favorite authors, many of whom are self-published, she committed to pursuing her aspirations.

Genna was raised in Long Island, New York, where she still resides, surrounded by the most extraordinary family and friends. Married to a wonderful man, who patiently tolerates her ramblings about whichever book she is currently working on (he even feigns interest relatively convincingly). Genna is blessed with two little boys who do their best to thwart mommy’s writing time with their hilarious antics and charming extrapolations.

All of Genna’s novels are brought to you courtesy of coffee and Disney Junior. 

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The second book in the series, Pieces For You (For You Series #2), is scheduled to be released this month (December 2013). 

 

Giveaway

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Love Waltzes In

Book1 Love Waltzes

Synopsis
To her millions of fans, ballroom champion Selena Marcil seems to have the perfect life: a great dance partner, a hit reality show, and celebrity perks. But underneath the glamorous ball gowns, Selena longs to find someone to share her life with when the stage lights dim.
Selena’s childhood sweetheart, Bret Lord, hung up his dance shoes after winning two national titles with her as a teenager, and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He never saw his former fiancée again, except on television and on the cover of men’s magazines. Ten years and three deployments later, Bret gets an offer to audition for Selena’s dance show. When the Marine Corps gives him temporary leave to appear on the series, Bret can’t refuse the quick cash that will enable him to provide financially for the widow of his buddy, even if it does mean coming face to face with his past.
When Bret shows up at her national championship, Selena is shocked. For years she searched for him to no avail. After spending time with Bret, Selena realizes despite their past romance, they have no future. He has no desire to live under a spotlight and she has no desire to leave it. Can Selena and Bret recognize when Love Waltzes In?

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 Excerpt 

Staff Sergeant Bret Lord sat on the dirty floor of his tent, going through the day’s mail: the latest Men’s Fitness magazine from his sister, a care package from his mom. He ripped open the package—socks, lip balm, sunflower seeds, and a thin letter that contained an old magazine clipping.

Dear Bret,

I miss you very much. Benny asked me to send you this article. I really wish you would consider his offer. Please stay safe.

Love, Mom

He swallowed hard. A neon sticky pressed on the wrinkled page had a note scrawled on it from his former master dance coach.

Bret, m’boy,

We’ll make it worth your time.

Cheers, Benny.

Thumbing the edge of the article, Bret stared at the sixteen-year-old boy in the picture and could barely recognize himself. His shoulder length, wavy blond hair was slicked back, not shorn in a “high and tight” like his current haircut. No signs of the tattoos or muscles that currently defined his body. Golden skin stained from a bottle, not the harsh sun of Iraq. His arms were wrapped around a gorgeous, curvy young girl with long jet-black hair. The jade Latin gown she wore matched the color of her almond-shaped eyes.

Bret tossed the article aside and removed his nine-mil pistol from his holster to clean it.

Lance Corporal Hernandez walked by Bret and snatched the article off his cot. After staring at it, Hernandez’s face brightened.

“Hey, Staff Sergeant, this you?”

“No, it’s my clone who’s also named Bret Lord.” Bret slid the rail back on his weapon and began disassembling it.

“Staff Sergeant, you know Selena Marcil? Did you hit that?”

“Shut up, Hernandez, or the one getting hit will be you—with the butt stock of my rifle.” Bret grabbed the paper out of Hernandez’s hands, and smacked him on the side of the head. The kid didn’t flinch.

“Staff Sergeant Twinkle Toes. Hey—can you hook me up with Selena? I’ll be her boy toy. I love her. Man, she’s smoking. Has the nicest ass. Not like all those skinny, Russian chicks on that show.” He nodded to himself with an eyebrow dancing. “Selena’s on my list. She’s Latina, too. We’d be perfect together. What was she doing with a gringo like you?”

“Hernandez, you’re way out of line.” Bret reassembled his pistol.

“My bad, Staff Sergeant.”

Bret grabbed the article, his pack, and his rifle. It was impossible to get some privacy in the tent. His only option was to sit outside in a sandstorm but even that sounded like a welcome retreat from his immature men. He walked about five hundred feet, then plopped down in the hot sand.

The red sky hung above him, thick from smoke from the nearby town. Bret struggled to catch a glimpse of the distant mountains. Sand seemed to pelt down from the heavens, blinding him and settling into every crevice in his body. He closed his eyes against the sting of the sand, and turned his thoughts to Selena. Was she the diva the tabloids made her out to be? Even after ten years, he could almost smell her buttery-coconut scent. A welcome change from the overflowing shitters, toxic diesel, and stench of his fellow Marines who hadn’t bathed in three weeks.  

 

Review

Love Waltzes In is a great read about first love and second chances. It shadows the lives of both Selena Marcil and Bret Lord two ballroom dancers and former flames. The story covers a bit of their past,  their present and a hopeful yet uncertain future.

The story begins with Bret who is deployed as a marine in Iraq. He is currently a staff sergeant and has been requested to appear on a reality show by a former dance coach. Bret loves his job and doesn’t want to get back into the world he hated. He doesn’t want fame or money, but when he loses a buddy in battle he begins to consider the offer. He promised his friend if anything ever happened to him that he’d look after his family. Bret is a man of his word and he intends to do everything in his power to help. While he has no desire to reenter the world of ballroom dancing, he agrees knowing the financial support he’d gain by dancing on the show would significantly help his friend’s family.  He vows to do one season, in and out, but as simple as he believes it will be he has no idea what awaits him. He knows being on the show will bring him in contact with his first love and former flame, Selena Marcil.

Selena called off their engagement nearly ten years ago and while he has been haunted by her decision Bret has never fully understood what caused her to pull back and leave him. Selena has a secret one she knows might change the way Bret sees her and although she fears his reaction, she never got a chance to explain. Although she sought him out he didn’t want to be found. He threw himself into his job and was proud to serve as a Marine, but her decisions have haunted her and she wants an opportunity to discuss the past while Bret is looking forward to moving on and leaving the past behind. Will it be that simple or will the past and present collide?

This book is a beautiful story, but I found that some moments moved a bit too fast paced and some things were abrupt leaving me little chance to react. The book is a quicker read, so I also think this is why some moments were a bit rushed, however, I found the book to be an overall good read. I found myself entranced by the story, the characters, the competition, the build up and rooting for these two. Selena’s decisions at times made me want to shake some sense into her and while I do love her character, I felt she is a bit naive at times. 

As I neared the final chapters I felt as though I were actually watching a reality show. I wanted to know who would win and what would happen. I wasn’t disappointed, this story is everything you look for in a good romance novel. It has love, loss, a touch of drama and even some funny moments. The relationships between the characters is an interesting blend and although I expected a lot more competition and hatred, the dancers all seemed like one big (dysfunctional at times) family ℓσℓ 

I highly recommend this book to romance/contemporary romance readers especially those who appreciate dancing, It’s fun, fresh and you’ll fall in love…especially with Bret! 

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About the Author
Alana Albertson is the former President of both Romance Writers of Americas’s Young Adult and Chick Lit chapters and the founder of Academe Advantage, a college admissions & test preparation company. Alana Albertson holds a Masters of Education from Harvard University and a Bachelor of Arts in English from Stanford University. A recovering professional ballroom dancer, Alana currently writes contemporary romance and young adult fiction. She lives in San Diego, California, with her husband, two young sons, and four dogs. When she’s not spending her time needlepointing, dancing, or saving dogs from high kill shelters through Pugs N Roses, the rescue she founded, she can be found watching episodes of House Hunters, Homeland, or Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders: Making the Team.

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