Tasty Book Tours @TastyBookTours and @Stacey_Kennedy: Mine (Club Sin #7) by Stacey Kennedy

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MINE

Club Sin #7

Stacey Kennedy

Releasing Oct 27th, 2015

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Dmitri and Presley—the scorching-hot couple who started it all in Claimed—return to save Club Sin in the exhilarating new short novel from USA Today bestselling author Stacey Kennedy.

Dmitri Pratt is living out his dream. Not only does he own the ultimate playground for the BDSM lifestyle, he’s found a special connection with his deliciously sexy sub, Presley Flynn, the woman who complements him in ways that go far beyond the bedroom. But when an anonymous blackmailer threatens to expose the elite, high-profile members of Club Sin in a notorious tabloid, Dmitri’s perfect world spirals out of control.

Before she met Dmitri, Presley never imagined she would find a Master who could deliver on all her hottest fantasies. Dmitri’s love and his sensual artistry surprise her every day, until he suddenly turns distant and cold. For the first time, Presley wonders where Dmitri’s heart truly lies: with her, or with Club Sin. As the life they’ve built together begins to crumble, Presley can only trust that Dmitri has what it takes—to defend what’s his, and win back the woman he cannot live without.

Mine is intended for mature audiences.

My Thoughts

This is the first Club Sin book I've read by Stacey Kennedy. I enjoyed this story and finished it in one day. I did feel that it might have helped if I had read the books in order but I was able to read Mine without too much difficulty.

Dmitri and Presley are the couple in this one. Their relationship was/is an interesting one. Though there is love and a fulfilling of needs, there are still many insecurities that get in the way. This becomes even more evident when the lifestyle they lead and their friends' lives are endangered.

The few sex scenes in the book definitely brought the heat but it was the romance and the relationship between the two characters that made this book a good read.

EXCERPT

 “Club Sin is no longer safe.”

Six words Dmitri Pratt had never imagined saying rushed from his mouth, and having said them out loud made them real. Sitting behind the cherrywood desk in his home office, Dmitri faced the men he’d appointed to oversee his exclusive BDSM dungeon, Club Sin.

Nestled by the bay window in the corner of the room, Club Sin Masters Kyler Morgan and Aidan McKnight sat on the black leather couch, frowns creasing their brows. Next to them on the wingback chairs, the other Club Sin Masters, Miles Sanchez and Porter Marshall, stared straight ahead in evident confusion.

Gutted by the realization of what lay before him, Dmitri shifted his focus to the Club Sin submissive standing near the doorway, awaiting his direction. “Please explain our situation, Sarah.”

Sarah’s head was bowed. Her long black hair curtained her face, yet it couldn’t shield the quick intake of breath passing through her cherry-red lips. “I’m not sure if you all know this, but I work for Gotcha!”

Porter, a private investigator—who was physically suited for his job, being tall and solidly built—asked, “The tabloid?”

“Yep, that one.” Sarah’s head lifted, and she gazed at the men through her thick lashes, revealing shy brown eyes. “Earlier tonight my boss delivered an envelope of pictures to my house.”

Dmitri tightened his fists on his desk, preparing himself.

Sarah continued, “The pictures show some of the Club Sin members. Their names are on the photos.”

Silence.

The police officer, Kyler, shot to his feet. His light brown hair was disheveled from his sudden movement, and his fists were clenched at his sides. “Someone has been talking pictures of us . . . here?”

Sarah shifted on her feet, giving a quick nod. “I’ve asked my boss for a few days to investigate the pictures. I thought that might buy you some time.”

“That was smart of you, Sarah,” said Aidan, a defense attorney and the most serious of the men.

Dmitri noted Sarah’s small smile at the compliment before she added, “You have to act fast to find the leak. I’ve got a week to investigate before she prints the story.”

Dmitri considered suing the tabloid. They could intervene before the story broke. The photographer could be resentful, though, and simply post the photos on the Internet. Frustrated by the thought, he scanned the faces of his close friends, knowing the decision also belonged to them. “Thank you for relaying what you’ve learned, Sarah. I’d ask that you excuse yourself now.” She turned to exit the room. Before she left, Dmitri added, “Please keep this information to yourself until I can talk to the members.”

“I understand.” She shut the door behind her.

Silence remained in her absence.

Sarah had told him about the pictures a half hour ago, and Dmitri had yet to accept it. Conflicted by his personal feelings and his responsibility to Club Sin members, he examined the twelve pictures on his desk. The faces staring back were of himself and his submissive, Presley, plus the Club Sin Masters and their submissives, along with the lone bachelor, Miles.

The only Master not pictured was Sawyer Quinn, which told Dmitri that the pictures had been taken sometime in the last year. Sawyer had left behind Club Sin and the BDSM lifestyle before marrying Chloe Nash five months ago. A frown pulled on Dmitri’s mouth as he also noted images of a well-known heart surgeon who was a Dominant and a couple of submissives who had high-powered jobs.

While the pictures didn’t show anyone inside the dungeon, all of them showed women in a vulnerable moment, with wind catching coats or skirts and revealing a garter belt or lacy panties beneath. Dmitri didn’t doubt that someone had spent a lot of time staking out his house, waiting for the perfect moment to capture the damning pictures.

Aidan rose from his place on the couch and approached Dmitri’s desk. Brows drawn together over his gray eyes, he picked up a picture of himself and his wife. In bold writing it was captioned Aidan and Cora McKnight. “What the fuck is this?” he growled.

“Believe me, I wish I knew.” Dmitri gripped the arms of his chair, staying put as the other Masters positioned themselves around Aidan to see the pictures. Waves of anger ignited in the room, making the air thick.

Porter’s hazel eyes blazed when he saw the photo of his wife, Kenzie. “Does Sarah have any suspicions of who’s behind this?”

Dmitri shook his head. “Her boss is keeping the person’s identity a secret.”

Miles grabbed one of the photos. “Is Sarah in any of these pictures?”

“No.” Dmitri understood the implication. “But she brought the information forward. I doubt she’s involved.” He drew in a long breath, settling his rage, not wanting to accuse anyone who didn’t deserve it. “In fact, I can’t imagine anyone in Club Sin doing this to the members.”

Nods followed.

Porter cursed at the photo in his hand and then dropped it on the desk. “What about enemies? Anyone piss off someone lately?”

Of course the private investigator went straight to the motive of vengeance, Dmitri thought. As Dmitri watched each Master shake his head, even he couldn’t come up with a suspect. “The casino brings some heated conversations with my competitors”—that went hand in hand with being the president of one of Vegas’s top casinos—“but that said, I don’t imagine anyone would feel threatened enough by me to do this.”

Aidan brushed a hand across the stubble on his jaw and nodded in agreement. “I can make enemies in my line of work. But nothing that warrants this defamation.”

Kyler crumpled the picture of himself and his wife, Ella, before tossing it in the garbage can. “We all piss off someone in some way every day.” His lips thinned. “Christ, this could ruin us all.”

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Stacey Kennedy is the USA Today bestselling author of the Club Sin series. She writes deeply emotional romances about powerful men and the wild women who tame them. When she’s not plugging away at a new story, she’s either hiking, canoeing, relaxing around a campfire, or obsessing over Penny Dreadful, Game of Thrones, and Outlander. Stacey lives in southwestern Ontario with her husband (who puts any of the heroes in her books to shame), their two young children, and her other babies: a mini labradoodle named Jax and a chocolate labrador named Murphy.

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Blog Tour + Giveaway: The Kiss that Launched 1000 Gifs by Sheralyn Pratt

 

The Kiss That Launched 1,000 Gifs by Sheralyn Pratt

Each weekday from 2:00-4:00 p.m., Grace and Ashton cohost Battle of the Sexes, a radio program arguing the he-said/she-said issues of the day. Their fiery debates often have listeners wondering if there’s more to their relationship than just talk, even though Grace has been dating Phillip, Mr. Tall, Dark, and Perfect, since long before she ever met Ashton Miller. Yet when news comes that Battle of the Sexes is on the bubble for cancellation, Grace and Ashton need to step up their efforts to engage their audience to keep the show alive. When a charity organization approaches them and proposes that the two of them kiss for a fund raiser, Grace and Ash agree to kiss for a good cause. A kiss is just a kiss, right?

EXCERPT

“Good afternoon, and welcome to the newest edition of Battle of the Sexes," Grace said, starting off the show. "With me today is the man who has just proven that the Instagram app is truly foolproof—my no-longer-technically challenged cohost, Ashton Miller.”

Ash leaned forward into the mic. “And with me is the woman I’ve recently learned feels compelled to alert the world via photograph every time she finds a pair of shoes she likes—the woman who takes the ‘anonymous’ out of Shopaholics Anonymous—my lovely cohost, Grace Vasquez.”

Grace was unapologetic. “A good pair of shoes is worth sharing.”

“Oh? Does that mean I should post pictures of my shoes?” Ash asked, picking up his phone and pressing the camera icon.

“You’re wearing hiking boots.”

“That’s right,” Ash said, putting his shoes up on the table and snapping a picture. “These are Salomon Quest 4D GTXes. I wear them any time I go on a shoot that requires some hiking. They’re light, durable, and provide great stability. Is that the sort of thing you share on Instagram?”

“Not really,” Grace said. “But I’m sure Salomon doesn’t mind the free advertising you just handed them.”

“Well, I’m totally posting a picture,” Ash said, in his best valley girl tone. “It’s not every day a man finds comfort, function, and fashion all in one shoe.”

“Indeed,” Grace replied. “I’m still waiting for that day to happen for you.”

Ash smiled against his will and set his phone to the side. He’d post the photo later. Grace was clearly in a mood that required his full attention. “So what are we talking about today? And, please, don’t let it be shoes!”
Grace glanced at her computer screen, giving Ash a view of her stunning profile. Seriously, how was her skin so smooth?

“Today the most up-voted topic is…” She blinked, looking confused. “Huh.”

“Huh?” Ash echoed, intrigued by the look of confusion on Grace’s face.

“Cupcakes,” she said.

“Cupcakes?”

Grace nodded and frowned at her monitor. “Why do men hate cupcakes? is the trending topic at the moment.” Grace looked Ash’s way, visibly confused. “Do men hate cupcakes?”

Purchase your copy

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Author Sheralyn Pratt

Sheralyn's first job was as a karate instructor, which taught her that practice does not make perfect; practice makes habit--good or bad. Martial arts also taught Sheralyn that a master is simply a person who can effortlessly do all the actions a beginner finds difficult or maybe even impossible. Sheralyn has worked in many fields throughout her life, but her 12 years as a karate instructor have shaped how she does everything, including writing and mentoring. She likes to keep things light and fun, but she's also aware that life is journey and that if you're going to buy a book, your life should better for it. So, fiction or nonfiction, know that each of Sheralyn's books are designed to take you to a new place. Maybe that book is designed to help you escape for a few hours, or maybe it's a book designed to teach you a new skill. Either way, Sheralyn hopes it's unforgettable...in a good way. ;)

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REVIEW

I have so many words I want to use to describe this book: amazing, hilarious, touching, captivating. And even then, these four don't do it justice.

Ashton and Grace are my new favorite main characters. The humor, the emotions, the banter, it was everything you'd like to see in a romantic story. Neither character overpowered or outdid the other. They truly complemented one another.

I ranted, cheered, cried, and did a happy dance as I devoured this book in one sitting. I would strongly recommend this book to anyone looking for a feel-good, funny and relationship centered story.

 

$25 Blog Tour Giveaway 

Enter to win an Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Ends 8/5/15 Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Blog Tour & Giveaway: Blessed of the Gods by Charlene A. Wilson

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EXCERPT

Styne’s thrill of adventure diminished as a howl reached into the narrow vein of the cave. He lifted his crystal-lit torch as if it would hush the mourning sound, but the light seemed to pulse with each beat of his heart. Gathering his nerve, he inched down the steep trail. Pebbles rolled beneath his feet, and he grasped at the granite wall to secure his balance.

A clash echoed through the catacomb, and he angled the beam down, squinting his eyes to see the bottom of the tunnel better. Water rose and then ebbed at the threshold, a tall stalagmite breaking the flow. His stomach knotted. No wonder the Chambers haven’t come to serve us yet. They must be scared to death.

Trotting down the pitch, he rode the gravel giving way to his quick pace. As he entered the hollow’s belly, waves crashed against the bluff. Bolts of light flashed beyond thick sheets of water like strobes. The fallout pounded onto the landing. Waves swept along the cave’s tongue and filled the gullies in a rush. Mats and crystals swirled with loose rock as the flow carried away the remnants from their earlier gathering.

He inched into the wide dome, gaze glued on the panoramic view. Awe locked logical thought as he scanned the vast World Above. Confusion passed his lips in a low mumble. “Chad said there would be stars, a moon…” It’s the real reason I agreed to come back down here and get the Chambers!

His steps slipped on the slick rock as he approached the open stage. He reached for the wet boulder at his side and braced his stand, digging his boot into the crevice at its base. Lifting his torch beyond the ledge of the ceiling, he drew it across the upper scope. The illumination from the crystal did nothing to penetrate the ominous cover. “What…what is this?”

Light shot across the horizon, and then a web of silent flares netted the expanse, highlighting the battle among the crests of the black sea. The sky turned musty gray as thick vapors morphed into engorged billows. Shock quaked his stomach as he tried to make sense of it all.

The heavens clashed, shaking the world around him. His heart jumped to his throat, and his arms flew over his head. A salty scent assaulted his nasal cavity as water clashed against the mountain. Thick sheets sprayed skyward and pelted him with heavy falls. He threw his hands out at his sides to keep balanced and then swiped his palm down his face.

The sky flashed white. Blinded, Styne shot his gaze toward the back of the cave, to the safety of the World Beneath the Rock. Fear held him rooted.

From the far left corner, a small light bobbed within the blob of white branded in his retinas. He scrubbed his eyes with the heels of his thumbs to clear his vision and then squinted in the same direction. Stafford waded through the waist-high current, his torch casting light across his pale face. The servant’s voice reached Styne in spasms. “Master Styne! They…taken! I tried… Great waters!”

Styne stepped toward him, an urgent command to halt on his tongue. His footing slipped. “Stafford, don’t… ”

Reaching the open cave, and free of the water, Stafford’s feet hit gravel. His long legs launched into a sprint. “Master Styne! They are gone!”

“Wait! It’s… ” Styne threw his hands out for balance and struggled to gain composure. “Don’t… ” Desperate to warn Stafford of the slick surface, his demand roared from deep in his chest. “Stop!”

Stafford jarred to a halt, his last stride slapping against the landing. His feet flew from under him, and his crystal torch clattered on the ground. The light flashed in his frantic eyes as he skidded past Styne, his master, his Keeper…the one entrusted to guide and keep him safe. Clawing at the wet surface, he disappeared over the ledge of the cliff.

The sky rumbled.

Styne’s mind reeled. A gasp punched from his lungs. Words wouldn’t form. “St… ”

He blinked and scrubbed his eyes with his palms. Another wave clashed into the bluff, and as it rose before the cave, a hungry howl moaned throughout the hollow.

Scrambling back into the depths, Styne swung himself past the stalagmite to the steep tunnel. Wild shadows danced around him as his torch revealed every frantic lunge up the rocky pitch. Flashes of the wild World Above swirled in his mind.

He fell against a boulder and squeezed his lids shut, heart pounding. Choppy breaths punched from his cheeks. His arms and legs shook, and he bunched his shirt with his fist to control the quakes in his stomach.

How could such a change take place in the short time they’d been in the upper chamber of the cave? The evening had been pure beauty, pink and orange ribbons trying to trap the sun as it descended beyond the horizon. Soft waves had lulled them as they sat around the crystal fire.

Shaking his head, Styne willed himself to master his actions. He filled his lungs with the familiar scent of sediment and focused on the safety around him. Fortification. Security. Control.

He opened his eyes to the reliable environment of the World Below. Silence rested on him. Soft light flowed from the crystal torch, illuminating the climb to his family camp. Lifting his chin, he set his resolve to maintain a dignified demeanor and reached to heave himself up the rocks. A cluster of crickets sprang from the ledge.

Shock rushed his edged nerves, and he threw his hand to the side. Stafford’s panicked face crossed his inner eye. Tremors returned. Sliding down the rough wall to the ground, he allowed the juts to graze his shoulder.

How could he not show strength during chaos for his server’s sake? He was frightened and I couldn’t warn him. What Keeper shows such weakness? He pressed his fists to his head and knotted his fingers in his hair. Irritation boiled in his gut as shame riddled his heart. Temper this! You’re not a child.

Clutching a fistful of gravel, he cast it at the wall to expel the guilt of his failure. What would his family think? They can’t see me like this. Not now. I’m to be a Father of the Nation. He shoved himself to a stand and then strode into the pass. I’ve got to gain control before I stand before Father.

   

Blessed of the Gods Aumelan – book one From the award-winning author of the Cornerstone Deep saga, comes a story of love, devotion and courage. Chad Aumelan is in love, but his world isn’t right. Not when he’s forbidden to have Dae just because she’s his slave. When Salana Goffin meets Chad, she’s faced with the unbelievable: a man who must take energy from a host to survive. He wants to find a cure to free the woman he loves. How can Salana turn away such a noble cause? Together, they search for answers, but fate has another plan.

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Praise “Aumelan is much more than a love story. Ms. Wilson has crafted a masterpiece in which she closely examines the human condition: How far will we go as a society to survive? How far will we go as individuals for compassion? The literary genus is covertly wrapped in a delicious genre romance where readers are submerged in the lives of her characters and the fantastic sci-fi backdrop of their imperfect world. Make no mistake, Aumelan may easily become a classic to transcend time. A definite recommended read!” ~ J.D. Brown, author of Dark Heirloom series.

 

Author Charlene A Wilson 

Charlene A. Wilson is an author of tales that take you to other dimensions. She weaves magic, lasting love, and intrigue to immerse you into the lives of her characters. She began writing in her early teens when her vivid dreams stayed with her long after she had them. The characters and worlds were so amazing she brought them to life through her books. Charlene resides in a small community in Arkansas, USA, with her two beautiful daughters, husband, a cuddly Pekingese, and a very chatty cockatiel named Todder.

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$25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Ends 3/1/15 Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Masquerade Tours Review: Broken Dolls by B.R. Kingsolver

Disclaimer: I received no compensation from the author or publisher for this honest review.

Here's what I'm giving it:

Rating:  3 stars

Here's why:

I read this book in a day and I can honestly say that for the most part I enjoyed it. The main character, RB, was a breath of fresh air. She was strong and able to protect not only herself but others. I like the fact that even though she was a beauty, she didn't go out of her way to flaunt it overly much. She is a very confident character, though sometimes her stubbornness drove me nuts. It's alright to be tough, but it's also alright to ask for help which she seemed very reluctant to do.

There was not a huge amount of backstory/character development which I would have liked to see a little bit more of.

The action scenes, however, were well-written and very believable. Also, the social norms for this particularly word/setting were brought to life and were very realistic.

Would I recommend this book to others? I would to anyone who likes a fast-paced stories, paranormal or urban fantasy reads.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Private investigator RB Kendrick makes her living nailing cheating spouses, digging up other dirt to help in a divorce, finding long-lost relatives, and occasionally sniffing out criminal activity and fraud.

When she takes a job to find a missing girl, she has no idea she is headed for the most dangerous case of her career. Usually, her ability to read minds gives her an edge. But when the people she’s hunting are also telepaths, that advantage is limited.

The search takes her into the dark underbelly of telepathic society, where anything, and anyone, is for sale. She discovers that telepathic women and girls are being trafficked as the ultimate sex slaves.

With people trying to kill her, she’s on the run, not knowing who she can trust. Will she find the missing girl, or become a victim herself?

A novel of paranormal suspense set in the world of the Telepathic Clans.

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Masquerade Tours Review: Aranya by Marc Secchia

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Disclaimer: I received no compensation from the author or publisher for this honest review.

Here's what I'm giving it:

Rating:  4.5 stars

Here's why:

This book started out slow and almost made me stop reading. Once I hit around the  15% mark on my Kindle, the plot and action picked up and I consumed the book. I'm glad I hung in there because this was a fantastic fantasy novel. I've not read too many of late that have captured my interest but this one certainly did.

The world building, politics, character development and plot were woven together rather well and kept me vested in the story. There were also some twists that I didn't see coming but completely enjoyed when they came about.

The romances (yes there are more than one!) were all believable and paced well. I liked the heroine's spunk as well as her emotional growth as the story progressed.

Would I recommend this book to others? Yes! Yes! Yes! I plan on reading the sequel.

Chained to a rock and tossed off a cliff by her boyfriend, Aranya is executed for high treason against the Sylakian Empire. Falling a league into the deadly Cloudlands is not a fate she ever envisaged. But what if she did not die? What if she could spread her wings and fly?

Long ago, Dragons ruled the Island-World above the Cloudlands. But their Human slaves cast off the chains of Dragonish tyranny. Humans spread across the Islands in their flying Dragonships, colonising, building and warring. Now, the all-conquering Sylakians have defeated the last bastion of freedom–the Island-Kingdom of Immadia.

Evil has a new enemy. Aranya, Princess of Immadia. Dragon Shapeshifter.

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Marc is a South African-born author who lives and works in Ethiopia with his wife and 4 children, 2 dogs, a rabbit, and a variable number of marabou storks that roost on the acacia trees out back. On a good night there are also hyenas patrolling the back fence.

When he's not writing about Africa Marc can be found travelling to remote locations. He thinks there's nothing better than standing on a mountaintop wondering what lies over the next horizon.

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MORTAL ENCHANTMENT Review Tour

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Disclaimer: I received no compensation from the author or publisher for this honest review.

About the Book

“Mortal Enchantment spins a unique twist on elemental mythology. This series is not to be missed.” 

Jennifer L. Armentrout, #1 New York Times Bestselling Author

In Kalin Matthew's world, elementals control the forces of nature. They are divided into four courts: air, woodland, fire, and water. At sixteen she will leave the life she's built with her mortal mother. Kalin will move to Avalon to rule with her father—the elemental king of the air court. Along the way, she's attacked by a fire court assassin and saved by Rowan, a swoon-worthy elemental with a questionable past.

Worst of all, she learns her father is missing.

To rescue him, Kalin will have to work with a judgmental council and a system of courts too busy accusing each other of deceit to actually be able to help her. But, they aren’t her biggest challenge. With the Midwinter’s Ball only five days away, Kalin must take over her father’s duties, which includes shifting control of the elements—power Kalin has yet to realize.

As Rowan attempts to train her, a war looms between the four courts. If Kalin fails, her father will die and the courts will fall, but the betrayal she’s about to uncover may cost her even more...

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Here's what I'm giving it:

Rating:  4 stars

Here's why:

This book has a bit of everything: angst, love, adventure and political intrigue. The politics that exist among the four elemental courts (Air, Water, Fire, & Earth) help drive the story and gives the reader some interesting world building to enjoy.

Entwined with the magical realms is are own and the foray back and forth between the two gives readers a nice change of pace and perspective.

I like Rowan and mostly like Kalin. The budding romance between the two was believable and the depth of Rowan's secrets and feelings were insightful and added depth to the story. Kalin drove me nuts because there were more times when she got on my nerves than when I actually liked her as a character. I know angst is the name of the game when we write YA but sometimes too much angst is a bad thing.

Overall, though, this was a fun read.

Would I recommend this book to others? Yes I would. I'm enjoying this series tremendously and look forward to the next novel in it.

The Series

FRAGILE REIGN (Mortal Enchantment #2)

It’s been a week since all hell broke loose…

Rumors of King Taron’s weakened powers have left the air court vulnerable. Kalin is desperate to awaken her akasha powers, except she doesn’t know how. Tension within the court is at an all-time high. Pressure is mounting for her to ascend to the throne, but a halfling has never ruled over any court. To solidify her position, the council has advised her to marry Sebastian—a high ranking air elemental she’s never met and her betrothed. 



Will Kalin sacrifice her relationship with Rowan to strengthen her court?

Rowan and Marcus return to a fire court in turmoil. Liana’s death has fueled the fire elementals’ distrust against the air and woodland courts. The unbalanced elements have set off natural disasters all over the mortal world. Rowan takes the throne to restore balance, promising to unite the fire court. But not all elementals are happy with his leadership. Many are secretly loyal to Valac, which means Rowan needs to find allies for his cause.

Can Rowan unify the court of fire before the elements destroy the world?

Fragile Reign: Goodreads  |  Amazon

THE SHADOW PRINCE (Mortal Enchantment #0.5)

"Filled with betrayal and intrigue, THE SHADOW PRINCE is a dark and twisty novella from an exciting new author!" --Katee Robert, New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author

Sixteen-year-old Rowan has spent most of his life living among the mortals—learning to control the element of fire, impatiently awaiting the day his vengeful mother, Queen Prisma, will abdicate her throne. When he finally returns to Avalon for his coronation, his mother insists he must first prove his loyalty to the court by completing a secret mission:

Kill Kalin, the half-human, half-elemental daughter of the air court king.

Willing to do anything to remove his mother from power, he agrees to sacrifice the halfling. He returns to the mortal world with his best friend, Marcus, determined to kill the princess. But as he devises a plan, he starts to question whether or not he's capable of completing such a heinous task. And what price he will pay if he refuses?

If you would like to see my review for the prequel, you can find it here.

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ABOUT STACEY O’NEALE

Stacey O'Neale lives in Annapolis, Maryland. When she's not writing, she spends her time fangirling over books, blogging, watching fantasy television shows, cheering for the Baltimore Ravens, and hanging out with her husband and daughter.

Her career in publishing started as a blogger-turned-publicist for two successful small publishers. Stacey writes young adult paranormal romance and adult science fiction romance. Her books always include swoon-worthy heroes, snarky heroines, and lots of kissing.

Stacey loves hearing from readers. Follow her on Twitter @StaceyONeale, look for her on Facebook, Pinterest, and GoodReads. You can also visit her blog at http://staceyoneale.com/.

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GMTA TOURS: Forbidden Forest - The Dragon Holder

review - will be posted in a few days. i apologize that i didn't get it posted sooner.
 =================

Why I Began to Write the “Forbidden Forest” Saga

When leaving for war, the feeling I remember most, before writing The Dragon Holder was the emotion of fear as I tried to think of what the next year of my life would be like. I was not sure if I would make it and I almost couldn’t imagine myself getting on a plane to return home from the desert.

The flight was long, longer then most, I would say at least 14 hours or so.

While on the flight I remember looking around and seeing all those others wearing the same uniform as I looking depressed, a dull expression on their faces showed nothing close to happiness and the same anxiety I was feeling.

Since I was younger I can remember always writing, telling myself stories that took me away from my current situations that I felt I had to escape.

I suddenly pulled out my phone and went into my memos, and there I began to write a story filled with family, loyalty and love, a story of fantasy and the wonder of life. This story helped me get through that year of being so far away in an unknown place.

I have always been fascinated with the Fantasy world, you could ask anyone and they would tell you that I would always say,  “Anything a human mind can imagine is real”.

I know one thing, The Dragon Holder took an entire year to finish, I remember returning on the plane and reading the last few paragraphs of the story, and how it took me away from my current situation and the stress I felt, it brought me to a world where everything was alright again.

I hope my story does the same for you, please do not forget to pass the word around, that a soldier is on the path to becoming to a full-time author and thank you so much for taking the time to read my novel. The next path in the journey is just around the corner!

SYNOPSIS:

The Forbidden Forest Series: Book One, The Dragon Holder is a young-adult fantasy novel set in the magical land of Sindergan. Once protected by the now-extinct dragons and their holders, Sindergan is under attack. The evil Decent Brotherhood and their shadow warriors will stop at nothing to destroy the kingdom and all the light within it. Hope for survival lies in the hands of twin witches, Hope and Destiny; a mage warrior, Anaya; an elf, Danche; an ogre; and Liam, the last dragon holder.

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AUTHOR INFORMATION & LINKS

Wilson Feliz is a new Young Adult and Adult fictional writer based out of the United States. Born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, Feliz is currently serving his country as a member of the US Army.

While his day job keeps him grounded on whatever post he’s stationed at, Feliz’s work as an author allows him to whisk his readers away to different worlds at the turn of a page. According to Feliz, writing has always been an outlet. “Even when I was a kid, I’d write poems and short stories as a way to get out of my head and focus on something other than everyday life. My imagination was always a little strange and out there.”

It was his “out there” imagination that led Feliz to craft the world of Sindergan in his first full-length novel, The Forbidden Forest Series: Book One, The Dragon Holder.

“The Dragon Holder literally came out of nowhere,” Feliz stated. “I had read stories about dragons and fantasy worlds, but Liam’s story was something that came from my heart.”

It was Feliz’s strong family bonds and sense of loyalty that played heavily on the creation of his characters. “What you’ll see in all my books is that there is no bond like love…All of my characters have a strong sense of loyalty and a deep need to protect their own. The Dragon Holder was my first attempt to express that part of myself. Yes, the book is a fantasy novel about a different land --- full of magic and mystery --- but at its heart, The Dragon Holder is about a young man stepping into his role as a protector, taking everything he learned as a boy and using it to take care of others.”

In his own life, Feliz takes his theme of family loyalty to heart. When he’s not writing, Feliz is a homebody who loves spending time with his family.

Feliz is currently working on The Dragon Holder sequel, as well as a non-fantasy fictional novel, Mason Cartel.

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Review: Cade by V.A. Dodd

Disclaimer: I received no compensation from the author or publisher for this honest review.

About the Book

NOTE: Complete novel. No cliffhanger. Dual POV. Rated 18+ for language and strong sexual content. This is an adult paranormal romance with erotic content. The series centers on wolf shifters but also includes vampires, voodoo priestess, a Marine, and magic. These are stand alone books that create a series. They do not need to be read in order.

Anna James is single again, finally. In her opinion, men are self-centered and will never love her for who she is, a beautiful, plus sized woman. All except the fantasy man that she’s been meeting in her dreams for five years.

She just never expected her fantasy to be a real live alpha shifter...

Cade Le Beau isn't what he seems. He’s a billionaire wolf. A Shifter. He laments his missed chance six months ago to meet his fantasy woman in the flesh. Just as his second chance presents itself, his fantasy woman, his mate, is threatened by the local mob boss and her ex-husband. Now, he has forty eight hours to deal with this threat once and for all or chance losing her again.

Is it Anna who’s in danger, or the humans who unwittingly threaten her?

The heat is on the moment they lay eyes on each other. Neither, age, children, horrid ex-husbands, nor mob bosses will stop this love affair.

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AMAZON

Here's what I'm giving it:

Rating:  3.5 stars

Here's why:

This book is actually a 3.5 stars for me. It was a solid urban fantasy/paranormal romance read.

I liked the characters, especially Cade. He had just the right amount of gentleman mixed with bad boy and alpha male. Anna was sweet, yet fierce. Her personality complemented Cade's very well. Her bad guy, Anna's ex-husband, definitely lived up to his nasty demeanor.


I had trouble with the story in a few areas for the following reasons:

1) The secondary characters, when they did appear, did not feel "fully fleshed out" for me. I wanted to see just a little bit more, especially in regards to Cade's and Anne's family members.

2) Though there were explanations to explain the "paranormal" and "magical" aspects of the story, I felt that they were a little vague and that made it hard to suspend belief in some places.

3) Also there is a moment when Anna's personality did a 180 and I found that it didn't feel like it "fit" with her overall behavior. I know authors like to show character growth but that particularly scene didn't work for me.

Would I recommend this book to others? Yes I would. I plan on reading more in the series because I want to know about Cade's six other brothers.

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Blog Tour Review: Give Me Hope

When the chance to review the second book in this series came around, I leapt at the chance to read the novel. The first book, Give Me Reason (read my review of it) was amazing and whetted my appetite for more. With that being said, let's dive into book #2

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this novel as part of a blog tour in exchange for an honest review.

About the Book

An Angel is he...

From the first moment he saw her, MIKAH BLAKE was seized by an inexplicable need to protect Vivienne Callahan, a fragile but fiery young woman who’s awakened a slumbering power within him. With his encouragement, Vivienne has begun to turn her life around, and things seem to be heading in the direction of a slow but certain happily-ever-after. But that happy ending is side tracked by a rising evil that is determined to destroy her. 

When her dark past comes back to claim her, Mikah is caught in a whirlwind of events that lead him down a path he was born into but never understood. Until now. 

Can Mikah save Vivienne?  Will his love be enough? Will he be able to control his angelic powers and use them to protect his new found love?

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Here's what I'm giving it:

Rating: 4 stars

Here's why:

The second novel in this series picks up where the first left off. [See my review of book #1 HERE]. There is never a dull moment in this story. I am completely invested in Vivienne and Mikah. Rooting for them both to make it through all the trials and tribulations that keep coming their way.

I've known and know people like Vivienne and I have nothing but respect for those that do their best when life deals them a horrible hand.

I hope that the bad guy(s) get what's coming to them and I hope that we get a happily ever after (well as best one can in the situations presented in this series).

Would I recommend it to others? YES! The third one comes out at the end of this month and I can't wait to read it. I'm completely hooked.

The Author

It is from Glendale, Arizona that Zoey Derrick, writes stories as hot as the desert sun itself. It is this passion that drips off of her work, bringing excitement to anyone who enjoys a good and sensual love story.
 
 

Not only does she aim to take her readers on an erotic dance that lasts the night, it allows her to empty her mind of stories we all wish were true.
Her stories are hopeful yet true to life, skillfully avoiding melodrama and the unrealistic, bringing her gripping Erotica only closer to the heart of those that dare dipping into it. 
 
 

The intimacy of her fantasies that she shares with her readers is thrilling and encouraging, climactic yet full of suspense. She is a loving mistress, up for anything, of which any reader is doomed to return to again and again.

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Review: Dragon Unmasked

Disclaimer: I'm reviewing this book without any compensation from author or publisher.

About the Book

One by one practitioners of magic are dying in violence, as if fired from within. And the last words of a dead mage identify Grace Armatrading as the next victim.

Adam Zolton is the last person in the world Grace wants to trust. Once before, he brought her to a fever pitch of need, then sacrificed her to pursue his own agenda. Now she has no choice but to team up with the darkly dangerous enigma.

Drawn into a twisting maze of fiery danger and desire, Grace fights off a deadly computer virus, violent thugs and her own uncontrollable blackouts. But with Adam to balance her frightening paranormal gift, she will see the Dragon Unmasked.

Here's what I'm giving it:

Rating: 4 stars

Here's why:

Over the last three months I've managed to read several books and found many of them lacking. I'm not sure if it's because I'm looking for different things when I'm reading or if maybe I need to switch genres. Regardless of the reasons, being bored or frustrated with a novel was not an issue with Dragon Unmasked.

From the moment I started this one, I was hooked. Blame my inner geek for loving the techie angle but it really worked for me. Blended magic and science was a neat concept and one that kept me reading to see what the author would dream up next.

The characters, at least for me, were not flat and I was invested in their emotions and reactions to each other. I found the relationship between the male/female leads to be believable and not forced.

All in all, this book was a pleasure to read.

Would I recommend it to others? Yes, I would. Apparently this book is part of a series, which I just found out. I don't know if you really need to read them in order or not, but I was able to follow this one without reading the first book.

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