~*~ Review ~*~ Devoted by Kira Johns

Title: Devoted

Series: Satan's Rebels #5

Author: Kira Johns

Publisher: Kira Johns

Published Date: 3/26/2016

Genre: Romance/New Adult

Page Count: 175

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Blurb:

“There are two types of pain in this world – the pain that hurts you and the pain that changes you.”

I chose to walk down a dark path in life believing I was the one in control. I was wrong. Overcoming my addiction was just the first step in my recovery. The club gave me a reason to continue the climb, but it was meeting Bella that gave me a purpose. I never meant to fall for Bella, but loving her was too easy. She completes me in a way I never thought possible. 

“The dark is unending. There are always demons lurking in the shadows.”

Forgetting the past is never an option, especially when facing it terrifies you. I thought I’d never be able to move on, until I met him. Blake Andrews didn’t just save me, he showed me what true love was all about. 

“With pain comes strength. With strength comes peace.”

Fate brought Blake and Bella together, but it takes more than just love to forge a bond that will last a lifetime. It takes someone completely… devoted.

My Review:

Johns is known for the darker side of romance. This book is no exception. Devoted brings us the story of Bella and Blake. We got a tidbit of it in Damaged but now we get the full story. The book is a little faster paced. That's fine because in Damaged we already know they get a HEA, now we are reading about how they got there. 

I loved the story of Blake and Bella. They reminded me of Jade and Viper's story. Blake has issues of his own, trying to remain clean and not use drugs. Bella is dealing with the aftermath of her own hell. She doesn't want help, she just wants to forget. The club is the help that Blake needs and in turn he uses what he learned to help Bella. 

Blake shows Bella that she can't forget her past, she can confront it and move past it. In doing this, it strengthens the bond they have created. Love blossoms. Their stories are dark and gritty but their love for each other is beautiful. 

I loved their story. I am so happy that the author gave us a chance to read it. I recommend that the whole series be read in order for you to truly understand this story. 

I feel that the author did a fantastic job, as always. I look forward to the next book in the series. 

My Rating:

5 out of 5 Stars

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~*~ ARC Review ~*~ Justice for Mickie by Susan Stoker

Title: Justice For Mickie

Series: Badge Of Honor: Texas Heroes Book 2

Author: Susan Stoker

Publisher: Stoker Aces Production

Published Date: November 10, 2015

Genre: Romance/Suspense

Page Count: 182

For Cruz Livingston, becoming an FBI agent is a lifelong dream, guarding the streets of San Antonio, a calling. His latest assignment—infiltrating the Red Brothers Motorcycle Club—will help stem the flow of illegal drugs brought into the city by the violent gang. He expects the job to be dangerous. He doesn’t expect to meet the woman of his dreams while undercover. 

Mickie Kaiser is refreshingly sweet, but her sister is intimately involved with the RBMC’s president. Cruz can’t afford to come clean about his double life without putting his operation in danger, but as violence creeps ever closer to Mickie, his priority becomes crystal clear. Cruz will do anything to keep Mickie alive…even if it means losing her love. 

I was one of the select few to receive an advance copy for Justice For Mickie by Susan Stoker. I have to admit though, going into this I was slightly conflicted. I adore Mrs. Stoker's books and bow down to her greatness in romance writing. I also love MC books and it's known that the MC in this book is not your mama's MC. I think that showing the barbaric side of this outlaw MC is pivotal in this book. It creates great drama and helps to set up the storyline. That being said, I got over being conflicted and realized that Stoker's awesome writing trumped that. =)

In all of Stoker's books her lead male characters are fiercely loyal and Cruz is no exception. Cruz wants to help Mickie and her sister, even if Angel is a royal B. It's a struggle for him because he has to solve this case but he doesn't want that to happen at the risk if losing Mickie. When the climatic part of the story is reached, you see the emotion and vulnerability that Cruz is trying to hide. Sometimes even the strongest male has to cry. 

With Mickie, I love her because no matter what, family is important. She spends a lot of time begging and pleading with Angel, trying to get her to see that her lifestyle is no good. She doesn't give up, even when the door is literally slammed in her face. Her persistence can be seen as her downfall but when it comes to family, it's a great quality. 

We do get a nod to one of our favorite SEALS, Mozart. It seems that Cruz and Mozart have a history. Mozart’s past plays a pivotal role in Cruz’s decision to join the FBI. There is also a great setup for the next book in this series, Justice For Corrie. I think that one is going to be a favorite. 

Stoker’s writing is top notch. One of the things that I like about her books is that they never drop off. You never get to the point that the story drags. Each book is consistent from page 1 to the end. It’s the same for this book. One thing I am finding with this book and series is that it is more adult than her previous books. The sex scenes are more graphic and steamy than in any other book. Is this a bad thing? NO! Bring on the steamy scenes. Mmmm….Cruz. I love me some Cruz. Where was I? Book review….right. Any who, I love the author’s writing and I feel that she captured Cruz and Mickie well. 

My overall thoughts of this book are that I loved it and I don’t have a complaint about it. I highly recommend that you read this series. It is definitely one that should not be missed. 

5 out of 5 Stars

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Other Books In This Series

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Justice for Mackenzie

Book 1 Now Available

Justice For Corrie

Book 3 available for Preorder

Releases 3/8/16

Click HERE for the full list of books by Susan Stoker

Susan Stoker has a heart as big as the state of Texas where she lives but this all American girl has also spent the last fourteen years living in Missouri, California, Colorado, and Indiana. She is quite the romantic and even met the love of her life on "Hotmail classified" before online dating and sites like match.com even existed!

Susan has been reading romance novels since middle school and once crossed out the names of the main characters in a book and changed them to her own and to the name of her crush. She's been writing scenes for years, developing her unique writing style.

Susan loves writing but her true passion is adopting dogs from rescue groups and shelters. Susan and her husband have had a total of nine "rescued" dogs since 2000 including a variety of basset hounds and bloodhounds. She has recently branched out and adopted a basset/terrier mix who acts more like a terrier than a basset (i.e. digging, eating a couch and being hyper). If you love romance and want to help her support adopting great dogs, be sure to check out her work!

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Review- Protecting Melody by Susan Stoker

Title: Protecting Melody

Series: SEAL of Protection #7

Author: Susan Stoker

Publisher: Self Published

Published Date: September 8, 2015

Genre: Romance/Suspense/Military

Page Count: 185

**I received a copy of this book, from the author, in exchange for a honest review.**

Tex gave everything he had to his country and his SEAL teammates. When an IED took away part of his leg, and his career, he devoted himself to his country and friends from behind his computer. He’s always been the man that can find anyone, that uses his computer skills, legal and illegal, to keep people safe and to put the bad guys behind bars. 

But behind a computer is a lonely place to be. While he might put on a good front, Tex can’t help but feel he’s missing out when he sees how happy his friends are. But when the woman he’s been talking to online for the last six months suddenly disappears without a word, Tex knows it’s time to step up, and use his skills for himself this time. 

The most anticipated book in the SEAL of Protection series is Tex's book, Protecting Melody. The reason it is the most anticipated is because Tex has been through everything with everyone since book one. He is actually the hero in all the books because his behind the scenes magic is what saved lives. As a huge fan of the series, I couldn't wait for Tex to get his book. Of course Stoker had to put it towards the end. 

Most are probably wondering, "Does it live up to the hype?". I'm here to say that it does. I'm not going to rewrite the synopsis aka blurb, and I'm not going to give spoilers. Sorry people, you are just going to have to suffer the suspense and read the book. I will say that there is an air of mystery that surrounds Tex. Who is this guy that is basically everyone's lifeline? Some of the mystery is ripped away and we get to know Tex a little more. This is shown through his POV of the time when he was helping Fiona through her panic attack at the mall. That was a big moment for them and it created a bond with them. Seeing his vulnerability and his fear that he couldn't help her, it added so much more dimension to his character. 

Tex's love interest is Melody. If you thought Tex was a mystery, Melody is an even bigger one. She has a good reason too. I like Melody for Tex. She seems to understand Tex more than anyone. On some aspects she understands him more than his SEAL family. We know that he loves Wolfe and the gang but they don't know the emotional side of Tex that Melody gets to see. 

The romance seems fast paced in this book but you have to remember that they have known each other for over 6 months. Sure they just met face to face but they have known each other longer. It's not an insta-love like in other books. 

I was left in suspense towards the end. You are not quite sure who did it and when you find out you are doing a double take. Stoker sets the reader up very well for this one. The suspense also takes an emotional turn. It left me needing some Kleenex. 

This book and this book series have not disappointed. I found myself eagerly awaiting each book. Sadly there is only one more book in this series. I wholeheartedly recommend that you read this series. It has everything, romance, suspense, and alpha males. ;)

5 out of 5 Stars!!!!!!!!!!!! I <3 Tex!

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~New Release~ Darkness Lurks by J.L. Drake

►►►► !! NOW LIVE !! ◄◄◄◄

DARKNESS LURKS by J.L. DRAKE
Series: Darkness Series Book #1

Genres: Romantic Suspense | Thriller

✤✣✤ SYNOPSIS ✤✣✤

Emily McPhee has struggled to overcome her father’s death...

It’s not easy, but Emily finally has the life she wants. She’s an A student at Orange University and has a comfortable home and a great circle of friends. She’s also in love with handsome Orange PD officer Seth Connors. He doesn’t seem to return her feelings, though, so she tells herself his friendship is enough.

Jimmy Lasko is a psychopath, and Emily is his greatest obsession…

Lasko knows what he wants—what he deserves—and has the deadly skills and unending patience to get it. What he wants is Emily, and he is watching and waiting for the perfect opportunity to strike. That time is coming soon; he’ll make sure of it.

A sense of unease settles on Emily, but is the danger real or imagined?

When Emily begins hearing noises and suspects someone has been in her house, Seth urges her to get a roommate. But after a search, she realizes a certain attractive cop would be the perfect choice, and Seth moves in.

Seth loves Emily, but fears his feelings might make it difficult to protect her.

In all areas of his life, Seth sees himself as a protector. He’s determined to keep Emily safe, but he pushes the captivating blonde away in an attempt to stay objective. However, after her stalker makes a failed attempt to capture her, Seth can no longer deny his feelings. 

With help from Seth’s police colleagues, he and Emily set out to identify the person hunting her before it’s too late. But is it worth the risk to bait the trap with what he wants most? 

✤✣✤ BUY your copy today! ✤✣✤

Darkness Lurks is OUT NOW!

AMAZON US: http://amzn.to/1N206h3

AMAZON UK: http://amzn.to/1LxbAJ7

AMAZON AU: http://bit.ly/1LxbUaE

~ Check out the DARKNESS SERIES by J.L. Drake ~

DARKNESS FOLLOW, Darkness Series #2

Genres: Romantic Suspense | Thriller

✤✣✤ SYNOPSIS ✤✣✤

Emily McPhee is in the clutches of a monster…

Despite the protection of her boyfriend Seth Connors and his colleagues with the Orange Police Department, Emily is imprisoned in a basement by her psychopathic stalker Jimmy Lasko. His bizarre behavior adds to her terror, and a video link forces Seth to witness her captivity, leaving him feeling helpless as he, the OPD, and the FBI search for her.

Freedom isn’t free, and safety is just an illusion…

Though Emily escapes the basement, the threat is far from eliminated. In fact, things she learned while being held by Lasko lead her to believe he isn’t working alone. Lasko is still out there, determined to get her back, and crazier than ever. If he does have a partner, Emily has no idea where the threat might lie or who she can trust.

It’s impossible to live a normal life when family ties become tangled.

Emily is deeply hurt when Seth is reminded that their relationship might endanger her further and he pulls away again. She’s even more frustrated when her globe-trotting mother returns and is charming to everybody…except her own daughter. 

When Emily meets Seth’s family, she loves his mom and little sister, isn’t sure what to make of his flirtatious brother—who is also a cop—and finds herself very uneasy around his father, who is a powerful attorney.

Sometimes things seem very clear…until you look more closely.

Darkness Follows releases September 1st! 

Pre-order coming soon!

✤✣✤ J.L. DRAKE ✤✣✤

J. L. Drake was born and raised in Nova Scotia, Canada, later moving to Southern California where she lives with her husband and two children. 

When she's not writing she loves to spend time with her family, travelling or just enjoying a night at home. One thing you might notice in her books is her love for the four seasons. Growing up on the east coast of Canada the change in the seasons is in her blood and is often mentioned in her writing. 

An avid reader of James Patterson, J.L. Drake has often found herself inspired by his many stories of mystery and intrigue. 

She hopes you will enjoy her stories as much as she has enjoyed writing them.

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Website: http://www.authorjldrake.com/#home
Limitless: http://www.limitlesspublishing.net/authors/j-l-drake/

~Review~The Grey Curse by Krista Kelly

Title: The Grey Curse

Author: Krista Kelly

Publisher: Self Published

Release Date: May 12, 2015

Genre: Paranormal Romance/Fantasy

Page Count: 109

**I received a copy of this book, from the author, in exchange for a honest review.**

One inexperienced witch. One rogue vampire. Thrown together by fate, they must break her family's curse before time runs out for them both. 

For nearly two centuries, every female descendant of the witch Rebecca Grey has died mysteriously at the age of twenty-one. The last of her line, Selena Grey has done everything to live a normal life. That is until she learns of the curse placed on her family. Selena's 21st birthday is coming soon and she has to find a way to break the curse and live. 

Decan Colt wants more than anything to be normal again. For 160 years, he has walked the earth a blood-thirsty monster, a vampire. He was traded and trained at a young age to be his mother's revenge on Rebecca Grey and her family. But when he sees his latest target, he falters. Something about Selena Grey reminds him of the humanity he thought he had lost so long ago. 

When Decan refuses to kill Selena, his maker decides to take matters into his own hands. Together, they must break the curse or face the wrath of an older vampire bent on vengeance. Will they be the latest victims of the Grey Curse?  

The Grey Curse is the debut novella from Krista Kelly. It is a great start to future books. The book is slightly shorter that most but it really packs a punch. The book follows Selena Grey, the last female descendent to Rebecca Grey. Selena is blindsided when her mother informs her that she is a witch. Selena doesn't believe it. I wouldn't either if I was told, out of the blue, that I was a witch. What makes it even better is that everyone around states that she is but Selena refuses to accept it. Ultimately Selena accepts the truth and moves on from it. Decan Colt enters the picture. Mysterious guy with a mysterious past. He has his sights set on Selena. At first his interest was anything but good. As he gets to know her, his feelings change. We discover his true intentions with Selena and the skeletons that lay in his past. Decan is a character you want to hate but realize he's a victim of circumstances. 

The book goes at a fast pace but is easy to follow. It tells a story of how the past and present are connected. The sins of the past fall upon its descendents, who are left to pick up the pieces. The author does an excellent job at telling Selena and Decan's story. I wished that the book was longer. I wanted more of a  background story for Decan and Nikolai. Overall it was a great book and highly recommended. 

4 out of 5 Stars!!

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Review: Finding Willow by Michelle K. Pickett

Title: Finding Willow (The Freedom Series #0.5)
Author: Michelle K. Pickett
Publisher: Clean Teen Publishing
Publish Date: October 2, 2014
Page Count: 23
Genre: Romance/YA/Contemporary

Synopsis:

“Finding Willow” is the prequel to “Unspeakable,” the touching romance between Brody and Willow that explores one girl’s quiet strength to survive the unbearable weight of a family secret alone, and the love and resolve of a boy determined to help her.

Brody Victor lives life on the fringes. Moving from school to school with each transfer his mother’s job requires has taught Brody well: If there’s one thing harder than making friends, it’s saying goodbye to them. So he’s learned to close himself off. He’s a loner, and that’s how he likes it.

When his mother accepts a permanent position in Wisconsin, Brody begins to slowly open up. But old habits die hard and, for Brody, making friends doesn’t come easily. That is, until he meets Annabelle. Brody loses himself in her. Their connection runs deep and, for the first time, Brody truly lets someone inside. But life can be cruel. An unexpected job transfer uproots Brody from his home in Wisconsin, and Annabelle.
Vowing not to get involved with another girl after the heartbreak of losing Annabelle, Brody returns to life on the outside looking in. A loner by choice. Until the night he finds Willow. Friendly and beautiful, a guy can’t help but notice her, but Brody notices more than her beauty. When she flashes her full smile, a spark is missing from her hazel eyes and for reasons unknown to him, Brody needs to find the reason.

Along the way, he stumbles across a secret bigger than both of them

Finding Willow is a short prequel to Pickett’s book Unspeakable. In this story we get to peer into Brody’s life and see what makes him tick. He moves around a lot and doesn’t want to give up his heart again. There is something about Willow that will have Brody second guessing that rule.

You find out how great of a character Brody is based on his interaction with Annabelle. He was supposed to go out with her once because of a bet, but sees that there is more to her than her nerdy glasses.

Pickett writes a great story. Her characters are memorable and her writing flows easily. I was sad once I got to the end because I wanted more. I cannot wait to read Unspeakable. 

5 out of 5 Stars!!!

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Review: A Reason to Stay by June Stevens

Title: A Reason to Stay (Oak Hollow#1)
Author: June Stevens
Publisher:  Classy Scribe Publications
Page Count: 116
Genre: Contemporary Romance



Book Blurb:

A Reason to Stay is a stand alone novella in the Oak Hollow Series. 

Ellie loves her hometown, job, and her best friend Jake. But Jake is a ladies man that will never settle down. Ellie can’t stand to see him with other women anymore, so she is packing up and leaving Oak Hollow and everything she loves to start over. A night of unexpected passion makes her start to think maybe things can work out between them, until she happens upon a secret Jake has been keeping for more than a year. Will their friendship be forever torn apart? Or will Ellie find A Reason to Stay? 

If you are looking for a quick romantic read, then A Reason to Say is for you. In this fast paced read, we meet Ellie and Jake. They are two best friends who secretly love each other but the other doesn't know. Since the characters have known each other for a while, we do not have to establish a relationship it's already there. 

One of the things I love about June Stevens' writing is that she isn't afraid to go outside the normal standard. She doesn't write her heroines to depict the outward stereotypes, she writes them as the everyday woman. I love knowing that there is a series out there that shows fuller figured women can find love.

The only thing I wish I could change is the length of the book. I want more Jake. 

Overall thoughts, I love, love love, Mrs. Stevens work. I can't wait for more Oak Hollow books. Recommended for readers 18+ due to some steamy Jake and Ellie scenes. 

Favorite quotes:

"We’ve never been on a date, so how can I ask you to marry me? But we’ve been together nearly every waking moment, and a lot of sleeping ones, since we were 14. We’ve even lived together. How can the lack of official dating stand in comparison to that? I want to spend the rest of my life with you"

"I love you, but I don’t want to hold you back"  

My Rating:

5 out of 5 eReaders!!

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