Tag Archives: Book Review

Give Me A Reason by Jennifer Miller Review

newarcbanner

blurb55d02-givemeareason_ecover252812529I always knew this day would come – that it would be my turn.
Images of my mother fighting the same disease are forever branded on my heart and soul. Regret and pain her unintentional parting gifts.
That will not be me.
I won’t allow it.
Instead, I will live my life to the fullest for the time I have left.
I accept my fate.
That’s my choice; my right.

Oliver Gentry, my childhood best friend, has other ideas. He wants to give me a reason to stay.

He wants to be the reason I fight.

GoodreadsAmazonBarnes & Nobles

authorjennifermillerA bestselling and award winning author, Jennifer Miller was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, but now calls Arizona home. Jennifer’s love of reading began when she was a small child, and only continued to grow as she entered adulthood. Ever since winning a writing contest at the young age of nine, when she wrote a book about a girl with a pet unicorn, she’s dreamed of writing a book of her own. Quickly learning that dreams don’t just fall into your lap, she knew she had to chase them herself and not be afraid to dream a little bigger. Most importantly, she is a wife and mother, and is very lucky to have a family that loves and supports her in all things. She also has an unhealthy addiction to handbags and chocolate covered strawberries, neither of which she cares to change. For more information about Jennifer and her books please visit her website.

GoodreadsFacebookAmazonInstagramReader’s GroupWebsiteTwitter

reviewgivemeareason1

I tend to say this a lot with books that I love, the ones that break my heart, but I try to be honest when I write a review. That means being 100% honest with how hard it is to write a review, or how much I laughed or cried, or whatever I was feeling (or not) with a book. It means that reading a  rom-com, a dark romance, a novella, a full-length, or a heart wrencher can potentially make me pause and sit at the computer, staring at the screen, waiting for words to come to me. Give Me A Reason did that to me. Even as I am typing now, I’m trying to figure out what to say and how to convey what I want, without giving away the plot.

As much as I’d like to spoil it and gush, I will refrain. (Sometimes I have impulse control! — I actually had to go and look at the other reviews written to make sure I didn’t spoil anything!)

Give Me A Reason will break you into tiny pieces, and just when you think you’ve been stitched back together, it will break you again. This masterpiece touches on themes of death and life, change and staying the same, ignorance is bliss and researching the hell out of something. It deals with topics that are hard to read, let alone write, and I don’t know how Jennifer did that. She literally blew my mind, and if I was allowed to eat ice cream again, I’d be shoveling pint-fulls into my mouth with a shovel.

My heart continues to break for Remy, and for Oliver. The love they shared was ignored for years, as they tried to not mess life up, not rock the boat, and keep each other in their lives in any capacity. But when Remy’s life is threatened, Oliver decides not to waste another minute of their lives. Instead, they try to embrace life for as long as they can. But Remy has a big choice to make and that choice can take her away from Oliver sooner than possible.

Aaaaaand now I’m crying again.

That choice between life and death is one many struggle with in their lives, in different capacities. Remy’s struggle with how to fight something, how to accept something, is something I’ve openly struggled with. Although Remy and I had different paths, and different decisions to make, but there was a conscious effort made, thought put into our decisions. Maybe that’s why this book hit me so hard. The way Jennifer crafted this story truly made you feel what Remy was feeling, every step of the way, every hurtle she faced the reader faced with her. For me, experiencing Remy’s pain felt ten-fold, since it brought me back to the struggle I had.

This was my first Jennifer Miller book, and if she breaks me like this again it’ll probably be my last. I wish I saved a Rom-Com to read, because I absolutely need something to bring me back up. If I could give this book more than five stars, I would. I’d give it ALL the stars. 10 out of 5, 100 out of 5, I don’t care. She deserves them all.

givemeareason25star
**All images are from freeimages.com and pexels.com and all fonts are from CreativeMarket.com. For more info on the fonts and images used, please email caitscreatures@gmail.com**

Stoking Her Fire by Mila Crawford Review!

newarcbannerblurbstokingherfireI’d always loved her, even if she never knew.

Growing up as Avery’s friend was the hardest part, especially when all I wanted to do was claim her as mine. But I was that awkward, geeky kid with the black-rimmed glasses, a social outcast.

Time and distance had separated us, but I never forgot about her. My love for Avery never lessened. It only grew.

Now back in town, working as a firefighter, I doubt she’ll recognize me. I’m big, strong, and confident, so different from who I was all those years ago. Seeing her again after so long has me realizing too much time has passed. I know what has to be done.

I need to let Avery know she’s mine and that nothing and no one will stop me from claiming her.

Warning: This is a friends-to-lovers, double virgin safe romance that also has that spark of filth thrown in. Yes, you read that right … double virgins. No need to wear protection for this one because these two know exactly what they want, and that’s each other.

GoodreadsAmazon

authormilacrawford

Mila Crawford loves romance, especially dirty short stories that are safe and have a happy ending. So she decided to start writing her own.

What can you expect form her books? No cheating, no OW/OM drama, always celibate or virgin characters, and of course a HEA … An all around SAFE book!

 

— Goodreads — Amazon — Facebook —

reviewstrokingherfire2

Have you been reading a lot of dark romance lately? Lots of blood and gore? Maybe read some super angsty books? Needing something lighter to get you through? A super safe, super sweet, super steamy novella to get you through to the next book that destroys you? Is it not your day, week, month or even your year? Try downloading Stoking Her Fire (Free on Kindle Unlimited!). It is super sweet, with some double virgin action, that will keep you smiling from start to finish.

Stoking Her Fire is my favorite kind of second chance romance. The one where both know they fell in love a long time ago, and instead of trying to find someone to replace their love, they hold out until they can see them again. So sweet you’re going to need a trip to the dentist after, but so incredibly worth it. This short little novella maybe wasn’t super realistic, but it was just the kind of novella I love to read.

There was minimal drama, but there was a sassy grandma in it.

Jackson and Avery met in high school, when Jackson was the socially awkward nerd and Avery was the social butterfly. Avery was overcompensating for a rough childhood by being everyone’s best friend, but her connection to Jackson ran deeper than that, even as a child. Jackson knew he loved Avery since he was the nerdy teen, but moved away before he had the guts to confront her with his feelings.

Six years later and Jackson is seriously buffed up and a firefighter. He’s also back in town to claim the one woman who has ever held his heart. He and Avery meet by chance, but move very quickly. Distance definitely made the heart grow fonder in this novella, and neither want to waste anymore time.

I’ve read a couple of Mila’s books now, most were before I started reviewing and I was a punk who read books and never reviewed. So I knew when I got this book that I was going to love it. Mila always gives you short and sweet, but also naughty. Her books are so worth the one-click, or the free download if you’re on KU (BONUS: She’s not a bookstuffer so yay!)

strokingherfire35star

Blackburn by Brynne Asher Review

newarcbanner

blurb

blackburnShe’s my employee.

I’m her boss’s boss. Hell, I own the company.

Pursuing Lillian Burkette was a line I shouldn’t cross.

Until a work trip from hell changed everything.

I didn’t just step over the line. I annihilated the damn thing.

When it comes to her, there’s nothing I wouldn’t do. I’d even kill for her.

When they say the corporate world is a jungle … they have no idea.

Warning – Not appropriate for readers under the age of 18.

GoodreadsAmazon

author

brynneBrynne Asher lives in the Midwest with her husband, three children, and her perfect dog. When she isn’t creating pretend people and relationships in her head, she is running her kids around and doing laundry. She enjoys cooking, decorating, shopping at outlet malls as well as online and is always seeking the best deal. A perfect day in “Brynne World” ends in front of an outdoor fire with family, friends, s’mores, and a delicious cocktail.

FacebookReaders GroupGoodreadsAmazon

reviewblackburn3

What would you do if you ended up stuck in a forest in Nicaragua, with your boss’s boss, who’s usually a complete jerk to you, but who’s also freaking gorgeous? Would you let the circumstances that forced you closer together to make you cross that line? Would you let him kiss you? Would you end up teasing him relentlessly?

If your boss’s boss is Gabriel Blackburn the answer to that is a resounding YES. Brynne Asher brings to life crazy, out of this world circumstances, and mixes them with the humor she continues to deliver in her novels (the Carpinos and Killers series which are both AMAZING, and I’m still waiting for more!) while also giving you a closer look into what makes a jerk, well, a jerk.

And let’s talk about her heroine, Lillian, for a second, hmm? The woman who wipes her nose on her boss’s boss’s shirt, after trekking through the forest with blisters on her feet. She’s the woman who teases her boss relentlessly, but also gets stunned by his kisses. She’s intelligent, crazy so, and not afraid to stand up for herself. She’s thrust into a situation no one would be prepared for, yet takes it as well as anyone could.

From the very first page of this novel, I promise you will be hooked. There is not one page that is boring or will make you want to put it down. This book will have you laughing, crying, and turning the A/C on, all in a few pages. I swear this book was not long enough for me, though Brynne’s novels always leave me wanting more. I promise you will have wanted to trade places with Lillian, despite everything these two go through, because Gabe is that hot– I mean amazing.

While this novel is short and sweet, it is also steamy. These two burn up the sheets, make you reach for that glass, or bottle, of wine, and fan yourself. Sweet doesn’t necessarily mean it’s not naughty. One does not negate the other. Gabe Blackburn loves dirty talk, and lord have mighty is he good at it. Trust me, you’re going to want your lover, boyfriends, girlfriends, whatever, take notes from him. He’s really good at it.

Get your fingers ready to one-click this baby when it comes out. You’re gonna need it. Also, if you’ve read the Killers series, there’s a little glimpse of an old friend in there, who also curses Gabe with something every man dreads. What is that? You’ll just have to read to find out!! (Also- for more teasers go follow Brynne on Facebook!)

blackburn15star
**All images are from freeimages.com and all fonts are from CreativeMarket.com. For more info on the fonts and images used, please email caitscreatures@gmail.com**

Carver by KL Donn Review

newarcbannerblurb4e513-kl2bdonn2bcarver2b1

I saw her.
She’s mine.
NOTHING
Will stop me.
**Warning**
The Adair Empire is a dark and graphic romance that will push your buttons, and maybe your boundaries. Each book contains a new couple but ends with a plot cliff-hanger.
GoodreadsAmazonKobo — Bookbub — Barnes & Nobles —

author3bbb8-kl2bdonn2bauthor2bgraphic

Krystal is a proud Canadian girl, hailing from Sherwood Park, Alberta. She has a strong dislike for the winter, and a love spring. Married to her husband Steve, for 13 years, they have 4 beautiful red headed spawns ranging in ages 5-12. She has a strong love of coffee, sarcasm, and wine. (Not necessarily in that order either.)
Krystal loves to write about instalove between couples looking for love. She has a passion for contemporary romance and springs into menage as often as she can. Currently, she is working on 2 new series, the Adair Empire a darker, dirtier, and grittier series than what her readers are used to, but boy has she had a ton of fun writing them. The What Happens When series will begin with Anonymous Bride series will begin with Anonymous Bride and continue with untraditional love stories. Bringing you all the good feels, a ton of love, and maybe – if you’re lucky 😉 a surprise baby or two!
With the exception of Anonymous Bride, and Until Arsen you’ll be able to find all her books on all platforms!

reviewcarver3

Ah KL Donn, How do I love thee? Let me count the ways. (Warning: This review contains no spoilers but it does contain squealing fangirling).

I’ve made no bones about my total love and adoration for this series, and each book gets better and better. It started with King, where you weren’t quite sure what you were getting yourself into, then we got something darker in Luther (I’m going to reiterate everytime I do a review for this series: Luther’s mine kthxbye), we got bloody in Castiel, wicked in Atticus, and then we got psychotic in Carver. By the time King was over, I was hooked, and now I’m addicted. I’m not sure what Grasping for Air will bring, but I am SO READY/HERE FOR IT.

So let’s go over all the reasons I love Carver, my little sociopath, and Meadow’s story.

One– His absolute obsession with Meadow knows no bounds, yet he tries to respect her wants and wishes- even when he doesn’t agree with them.
Two– He has absolutely no idea what it means to be with a woman, and what would scare a woman or not, and yet he tries to do everything possible to make Meadow want him (and if that doesn’t just break your heart you are heartless.)
Three– Meadow is not born into the life, is not strong like the other women in the series are, yet she accepts Carver and all of his psychotic tendencies, though it takes her a minute.
Four– These two are special to each other, for special reasons, and it’s literally the greatest thing ever.
Five– THE DRAMA. What the heck was all of that???
Six– I question KL Donn and her mental state, but I thank her for it because everything about this bloody masterpiece was so amazing.
Seven– I don’t know how to stay true to a psychopath is possible, but KL matched up a psycho and basically a cute little bunny, and made you want to wrap them in a blanket and keep them safe forever so no one can ever hurt them again.

What do I hate about this? HOW DARE YOU LEAVE ME LIKE THIS. I know there’s a warning about a cliffhanger, but when you read it you’re going to be like WTF. KL is evil, evil genius? Maybe. Anyways, I can’t wait for Grasping for Air, though I’m probably gonna cry because that means my Adair boys are done and I’m not sure I’m mentally capable of accepting this.  I’ll probably just ignore the fact that it’s over and reread it a bunch of times. That’s not crazy, right?

Anyways, this bloody, twisted empire quickly became one of my all time favorites. Luther will always be my love, but I absolutely adore Carver. I love how perfectly Carver and Meadow balance each other out. I love that Meadow has some growing to do without Carver, but it really sucks ass. I love that Meadow is the only one that could ever put Carver in his place, yet she probably never would. And I love how Carver doesn’t understand most things, but his connection to Meadow is so deep, he knows what she needs.

I’m shutting up now, I swear.

Go get this series!!

carver15star

**All images are from freeimages.com and all fonts are from CreativeMarket.com. For more info on the fonts and images used, please email caitscreatures@gmail.com**

Sleight of Hand by BJ Bentley Review!

newarcbannerblurbsleightofhandBERTIE

I grew up on the streets, a product of someone else’s bad choices.
I clawed, fought, and stole in order to survive.
You’d think growing up that way would make me tough. Make me hard.
Truth was, I wanted to do good.
But doing good brought me something very, very bad.

ALEKSANDER

You could say I had it all. Money. Respect. Women.
The fear of those beneath me.
I had everything I wanted.
But I had an obsession that became a need.
I knew what I needed, and what I needed was her.

Aleksander Magnus is one-third of the Syndicate. A criminal CEO who thrives on control. So, when he meets Bertie, his sparrow, will he give in to the desire to cage his little bird, or will he open his heart and allow them both to fly free?

— Goodreads — Amazon — Barnes & Nobles —

author29136192_175603263078789_8700093008424468480_nFrom her Amazon: I’m a psychic medium, romance author, and cat mom. I shamelessly based my character, Sabrina Rhodes, on myself (write what you know, and all that.) Weaknesses include alpha males and badass babes.
The Intuitive series is a collection of rom-com novellas, and I’m also working on a full-length dark romance novel.
I’m very active on social media, so feel free to stalk me! (Please stalk me, this is a cry for attention.)
Follow me!

—  Facebook — Twitter —  Instagram —  Website — Amazon—  BookBub  —reviewsleightofhand1

Alright, ok, I can totally write this review and not fan girl too much. Right? Right. Ok. Here goes nothin’.

ALEKSANDER is the devil and I freaking love it. He may not be your typical mafioso, but he is definitely uber powerful in his business. We met him in Finders Keepers, and if you read it, you know there were some super trigger warnings. Now, there aren’t really triggers in this book (maybe? everyone’s are different), but it really depends on your definition of safe. Aleks isn’t one to believe in that love at first sight, junk. And he’s not going to let a little girl that he wants more than anything, come in between him and his empire.

*snort*

Roberta, BERTIE, is a strong independent who don’t need no man, and she doesn’t want one. And she’s so good at her job, she sends Aleks on a merry little chase. (Yes, the Aleks that’s all “I’m a big CEO, I don’t want love” Aleks.) She is sassy and fierce, and she’s smart as hell. She’s good at running, hiding, stealing, and eating pie (trust me, that’s important). She is a hell of a survivor, and learned early on she could only count on herself. But something in her says to go to Aleksander, and she firmly shuts that down in her head.

These two burn up the sheets as much as they burn the world. I love BJ Bentley’s heroines because they’re not weak damsels in distress. Bertie makes sure to mark her territory (Aleks) as much as Aleks does the same. Neither are afraid of pleasure, and Aleks teaches Bertie new ways to explore her own pleasure, and the pain/pleasure combo. There are some Dom/sub vibes in here. Aleks isn’t making Bertie kneel whenever he enters the room or anything, but there is a definite box their relationship is in.

At first, because Bertie is Bertie, she resists the kind of pleasure Aleks can give her by owning every inch of her, but it just added to the dynamics of their relationship. They are both possessive of the other, which translates into some really sexy times in the sheets… and out of them.

And good lord the drama! Bertie, just like Charlotte once did, gets herself into some nasty situations. Lucky for her, she’s not part of the family, and nobody messes with the family (get it?!). Aleks fell down the same rabbit hole that Jensen did, and fell in love with a woman not afraid to get dirty. I actually think it’s a necessity for me to have an epilogue or novella somewhere to show how these women are changing the Syndicate because I guarantee they help the guys… not that the guys want their girls doing any work.

Ok, I’m getting a little talkative, and at this point I don’t know what to say other than READ THE BOOK YOU WILL LOVE IT.  You may hate Aleks sometimes, and wonder what the heck Bertie is doing, but BJ Bentley keeps true to who her characters are. This work, this series so far, is authentic and bloody and I love it. I cannot wait to see what the series brings because I need it!

sleightofhand24star

Staying in Vegas by Sam Mariano Review

newarcbannerblurbstayinginvegasYou don’t want to miss what happens in Vegas…

When I met Rafe Morelli, he didn’t look like the biggest mistake I’d ever make; he seemed closer to the crime family version of Prince Charming. Charismatic, beautiful, and attentive—with an intoxicating air of power—Rafe was the stuff of my darkest fantasies.

What we had should have been a simple fling, no-strings-attached. My hot weekend with the sexy, dominant Vegas boss—a harmless memory to replay once I returned to my quiet, predictable life.

One tiny hitch in that plan: a panty-melting memory isn’t all he left behind. Now the stakes have changed, and I’m faced with a potentially life-altering decision. Do I stay away and enjoy my status as the only woman in known history who has played in the Morelli flames without getting burned, or do I risk everything and step back into the fire?

BOOK 1 OF 3 IN THE VEGAS MORELLI TRILOGY.

This trilogy can be read even if you haven’t read the original Morelli family series, but as it takes place AFTER that series, there will be Morelli family series spoilers. Two of the main characters from this trilogy were introduced in the original Morelli series. If you want to read the original series and experience it without spoilers, you may want to start there (with Accidental Witness).
Like the original Morelli family series, this trilogy is a continuing story following the same characters, NOT three separate-couple standalones.

GoodreadsAmazon

authorsammarianoFollow Sam Mariano on Facebook or check out her Blog! (She also recently opened an Instagram, sammarianobooks, if you’d like to follow there.) If you need to email her, she can be reached at sammarianoauthor@gmail.com (but she is sometimes tardy about checking email. Mateo is very demanding).

Sign up for Sam’s mailing list (to stay up to date on current projects–she won’t spam you! Only for notification of new releases or book sales.)

Because of You, Irreparable Damage, The Morelli Family Series, and Staying in Vegas are now available on Amazon! (And don’t forget to follow Sam’s Amazon Author page to get the newest releases.)

Sam Mariano has been writing stories for as long as she can remember. She lives in Ohio and has a sweet and wonderful daughter.
Because of You was her first finished story (she started writing it when she was 18) and due to a full-time work and college schedule, it took her years to finish. She has also been telling people for years that there would never be a sequel (sorry, guys!)…which turned out to be a lie.
Sam Mariano is currently working on the sequels to Irreparable Damage and Because of You.
Feel free to find her on Facebook, Goodreads, or her blog—she loves hearing from readers!reviewstayinginvegas2

Staying in Vegas was my first dip into the Morelli family and Sam Mariano. Although I am probably going to go back and read the Morelli family series from the beginning (especially Mateo because he seems scary and ruthless and my kinda guy!), I had no trouble keeping up with Rafe and Laurel’s story. Well, Rafe, Laurel, and Sin’s story. The first book in the probably dramatic trilogy constituted more of Laurel and Sin’s relationship than Rafe and Laurel’s.

After reading this book, and then trolling the reviews on Goodreads, there’s one thing we can all agree on about this book: keep an open mind. There’s some definite Dom/sub vibes happening, though because I’ve never read one of Sam’s books I couldn’t tell you how far those are going to go. The ultimate, descriptive love triangle is happening, between Laurel Sin and Rafe that makes me want to hate Laurel.

I hate love triangles, and this one went beyond “I like two guys.” Rafe messes up, REALLY badly, and Sin swoops in like a kidnapping savior. Rafe then realizes he messed up when he thinks Sin is sleeping with Laurel. It’s a triangle that makes me anxious in every way possible. And I wanted to hate Laurel so much for seeming wishy-washy. I wanted to hate Rafe for not swooping in sooner. I wanted to hate them both and throw the book!

But I. Just. Couldn’t.

I understood why Laurel was feeling the way she was, and I understood why Rafe was a major jackass. I understood so much, that all I could do was hope and pray for Rafe and Laurel to get together sooner rather than later. There is a part of me (the part that’s consumed by anxiety over THAT CLIFFHANGER and also the dynamic between Rafe, Sin and Laurel), that wants to skip the rest of the series and just go read the other Morelli books, forever forgetting about this triangle. You know what though? I probably won’t, because as much as Sam caused me pain with this story, I LOVED IT.

stayinginvegas34star

**images used are from http://www.freeimages.com and all fonts are licensed, bought from http://www.creativemarket.com. For more info on the fonts used please contact me at caitscreatures@gmail.com**

The Right Stud by Ilsa Madden-Mills and Tia Louise Review

newarcbannerblurbtherightstudWall Street Journal bestselling author Ilsa Madden-Mills and USA Today bestselling author Tia Louise are back with an all-new romantic comedy filled with Southern sass and steamy scenes that will have you laughing out loud and fanning yourself. Pour the sweet tea and get ready…

“The best way to get over your sh**ty ex-fiancé is to get under a shiny new stud…” 

As soon as Mr. Tall, Blond, and Handsome walks into that bar, I know he’s the hook-up I need to get over stupid Cheater Kyle.

A few stolen kisses in a dark hallway, and I’m pretty sure we’re headed for a home run—until he disappears without a trace.

Whatever. Men are all snakes in the grass, and I don’t need a new one anyway.

I resolve to forget about his perfect lips (and chest of steel) and instead focus on turning my Granny’s old beach house into a profitable B&B.

What I don’t expect is for him to show up the next day in my kitchen!

You see, my sexy mystery man is none other than Jax Roland, the drop-dead gorgeous home improvement star of The Right Stud, and he’s got an offer I can’t refuse.

With a suitcase in one hand and a hammer in the other, he wants to move in and renovate my old house while he films his new show.

But my roommate has secrets, and they threaten to rip our blossoming friendship—and possible love—apart.

When push comes to shove, is Jax really The Right Stud or is he just another nail in the coffin of love?

GoodreadsAmazon

authortialouiseTia Louise is the USA Today best-selling, award-winning author of 20 sexy romance and romantic suspense novels.

After being a teacher, a book editor, a journalist, and finally a magazine editor, she started writing love stories and never stopped.

Louise lives in the Midwest with her trophy husband, two teenage geniuses, and one grumpy cat.

NEW RELEASE: HIT GIRL, coming March 19! #BadAss #GrlPower #superhero

Recent Releases:
UNDER THE LIGHTS (#1)
UNDER THE STARS (#2)
“Sundown” (a Bright Lights novella)

Stand-Alone Romances:
WHEN WE TOUCH, a USA Today bestseller
THE LAST GUY*
*Co-authored with Ilsa Madden-Mills

The Dirty Players Series:
The Prince & The Player, 2016
A Player for A Princess, 2016
Dirty Dealers, 2017
Dirty Thief, 2017

The One to Hold Series:
One to Hold (Derek & Melissa), 2013
One to Keep (Patrick & Elaine), 2014
One to Protect (Derek & Melissa), 2014
One to Love (Kenny & Slayde), 2014
One to Leave (Stuart & Mariska), 2014
One to Save (Derek & Melissa), 2015
One to Chase (Amy & Marcus), 2015
One to Take (Stuart & Mariska), 2016

Paranormal Romances:
One Immortal, 2015
One Insatiable, 2015

GoodreadsAmazonFacebook

ilsamaddenWall Street Journal, New York Times, and USA Today best-selling author Ilsa Madden-Mills writes about strong heroines and sexy alpha males that sometimes you just want to slap. She’s best known for her angsty, yet funny, New Adult college romances.

A former high school English teacher and elementary librarian, she adores all things Pride and Prejudice; Mr. Darcy is her ultimate hero.

She loves unicorns, frothy coffee beverages, Vampire Dairies, and any book featuring sword-wielding females.

Email her at ilsamaddenmills at gmail dot com.

Recent Releases:

I Dare You (2018): #2 Book on Amazon; Amazon’s Most Read Chart 4 weeks straight; Washington Post #5 Bestseller.
The Right Stud: (arriving June 2018)
Dirty English: #1 on Amazon; Wall Street Journal Bestseller #8
Filthy English: #4 on Amazon
Fake Fiancée: #2 on Amazon; Wall Street Journal Bestseller #7
The Last Guy: Amazon Top 25
Spider: Amazon Top 20
Also check out her Briarwood Academy Series, a now complete series featuring stand-alone couples:
Very Bad Things: #6 Amazon
Very Wicked Things: Top 100 Amazon
Very Twisted Things: Top 100 Amazon

GoodreadsAmazonFacebook

reviewtherightstud2

Reading The Right Stud was honestly so enjoyable, when I reached the end, I was shocked. The variety of characters and the craziness they brought to the book, kept me engaged and laughing the entire time. Jax Roland is a fairy tale prince mixed with bad boy yumminess, that is impossible to deny. Ashton Hall is a badass woman looking to save her family home, and though she needs some help, she’s not a damsel in distress. When Jax and Ash come together, it is an explosion in the sheets, and magic in front of and behind the camera.

Ashton had my heart pretty much from the beginning. Six months after she caught her ex cheating, she’s trying to rebound and get back in the game. She doesn’t want love, though. She’s too busy trying to restore the house her grandmother left her and her brother, while her brother is trying to get her to sell it. The house is more than just a family home, though. Her grandmother painted mermaids for her to find everywhere. (And we all know how much I love mermaids, so I am Grammy’s number one fan!)

Jax is the love ’em and leave ’em type. He’s too busy working two jobs: his real job as a real estate agent, and his second job, his love, remodeling homes. He’s made a name for himself in the online world, and he’s working on becoming the next Fixer Upper, with his show The Right Stud. There’s no room in his life for a permanent woman, and he doesn’t want a woman in his life. He doesn’t do love, and he definitely doesn’t do marriage and babies.

These two meet and feel an instant connection. They aren’t “insta love” but they both find things they love about each other pretty immediately. They share a love of restoration, and a love of the Conch Shell, the B&B/family home Ash is trying to save. There’s really no OW/OM drama, which was A-OK WITH ME. But the drama they did have, which was extremely minimal, made these two stronger. And as much as these two say they don’t want love, they fall into it fairly quickly.

Things I loved about this book: mermaids!!, safe (even when there’s drama, these two don’t go out and try to hurt each other using other people), Jax’s fine body, Ash’s resilience. the strength these two have individually, and as a couple, and that epilogue. It was so sweet, so cute, that I turned into the ultimate sterotypical white girl with my “I CAN’T EVEN”.

Things I didn’t love: it wasn’t long enough???? (kidding!) I just wished I saw more of Jax and Ash working through things. They had their problems right at the end, and then the epilogue came. It would have been nice to see a little more make up time happening.

therightstud34star

 

**images used are from http://www.freeimages.com and all fonts are licensed, bought from http://www.creativemarket.com. For more info on the fonts used please contact me at caitscreatures@gmail.com**

If You Say So by AR Myles Review

newarcbannerblurbifyousaysoSometimes life is a dream you don’t want to wake up from . . .

The night Alison Lockhart walks in to Undisputed, she only wants to have a drink, celebrate a friend’s birthday, and forget about the newest guy her mother tried to set her up with. It’s why, when the infamous Jay “The Hurricane” Hamilton—one of the highest-ranking boxers at The Underground—labels her a ring rat, she writes him off as just another guy with an over-inflated ego.

Only she can’t stop thinking about him.

Or his steel-blue eyes.

Or the apology on his perfect lips.

Their fall is fast and hard, but when Alison’s ex shows up and Jay starts keeping secrets, will they be able to find their way out of the nightmare?

GoodreadsAmazon

authorarmylesThe author of the Breathe Again and Blinded by Love series, both written under the pseudonym, Emma Grayson. If You Say So is her debut novel as A.R. Myles and her first standalone. Currently she is working on a few new novels as well as a new series, which is focused on single moms who are trying to make it in the dating world after being wronged by their loser exs.

Born and raised in Alberta, Canada, she resides in a small town with her family, her eleven-year-old son, and six cats—yes, SIX cats! She loves her romance with a twist of suspense or comedy, and when she’s not writing or reading or coming up with new plots, she spends most of her time with her son or binging all the shows on Netflix, and drinking Starbucks coffee with her mom and best friends.

GoodreadsAmazonFacebook

reviewifyousayso1

I struggled, a lot, to write this review. My conflicting feelings have made me take some time before I wrote it. I wanted to clear my head, really think about how I felt this novel before I wrote it. Also, I wanted to write an honest and true review, without giving away spoilers.

AR Myles had me hooked from the first page. I wanted to read all about Jay and Alison. From their first meeting I loved Jay, even though he was a major jerk face. But after that, he was a major sweet heart, and I loved him for sticking up for Ali, for falling in love with her so completely, that you couldn’t help but fall in love with him too. Ali is strong and independent, despite what her mother wants her to be. She is loved by Jay and by her friends.

This book was literally an emotional roller coaster. The ups were fabulous, and the lows were LOW. Ali’s relationship with Jay was strong, no matter how many lows they had, she never doubted him. He stood up for her against her mother. He bonded with her father. Ali supported Jay through all of his struggles. Their chemistry was off the charts from the very first page.

So while I loved this book, with all it’s ups and downs, I am not a fan of the ending. It’s not my thing, the ending, but it was real and raw. I went back and forth on what to rate this book. On one hand, I wanted to one star it because HOW DARE AR Myles make me fall in love THAT MUCH and then DO THAT to me? But on the other, she created a story I will cry about all night, and every time I think about it. It’s the story I will tell people to read when they need an ugly cry. How could I give it less than 4 stars? I already took 1 star away because I didn’t like the ending. But at the end of the day? This was a beautifully written story, tragic, but amazing. I can’t fault AR for sticking with the truth and with the character. (Well, I can, and I can beg her to give me an alternate, but still…)

ifyousayso24star

Forever Release Boost!

Forever by Anna B. Doe is LIVE!

Anabel and William’s story is coming to a sweet, beautiful, heartbreaking conclusion in Forever, New York Knights novella!
 
 
BOOK INFORMATION
Title: Forever
Series: New York Knights novella, book 3
Author: Anna B. Doe
Genre: Contemporary Sports Romance
Cover Design: Oh So Novel
Graphic Design: Čitaholičarka
Release Date: May 25th, 2018
 
 
ONE-CLICK or read for #FREE with KU!
Blurb:
Anabel
This story is as old as time.
Girl meets boy.
They fall in love and, after their fair share of highs and lows, they finally get their happily ever after …
Only in my story, happily ever after seems to be so far away.
William and I are together, but we’re apart.
It’s hard and painful, but we make do because not being together is harder than having a long-distance relationship.
Every turn is more painful than the last, and I’m not sure if I’m ready for it.
If we are ready for it.
William
For more than a year, I waited.
For more than a year, I was a good boy playing by the rules.
For more than a year, I’ve been waiting for the right moment.
I gave her time she needed.
The time we needed.
I watched her go in and out of my life, time and time again.
But I’m done playing this game.
I can see the pain in her eyes. The pain that matches my own.
It’s time to end this and claim what’s mine.
Because I’m hers, and she’s mine and we … We’re forever.
 
 
EARLY REVIEWS
“Anna managed to capture all the right feelings in describing the pain of two lovers who’re having a long distance relationship. The struggles that go with it. But real love can conquer it all.” – Čitaholičarka
“Breathtaking ending to Will and Bell’s love story. True love conquers all, no matter the distance.” – Goodreads reviewer
“What a great conclusion to Will and Bel’s story. It was beautifully written and heartfelt.” – Goodreads reviewer
“This was a great conclusion to Lost and Found.” – Goodreads reviewer
“This couple will go down as one of my favorite books, and favorite couple.” – Cait’s Creatures
 
 
 
What to know how it all started?
Lost & Found (New York Knights, book #1)
One-click or read for free with KU!
 
“The drama was so different than other romance novels
that I have come across. The complexity was intense. The angst and the hope I
have these character was so surreal. Lost and Found is a book that is one-click
worthy!” – Crystal’s Book World

 

 

Talk Nerdy to Me by C.M. Owens Review

blurbtalk nerdy to meDespite the fact it seemed like Base Masters was all over Sterling Shore, I’d never really known much about him, aside from random factoids. Things like…he’s a semi-estranged cousin of one of my brother’s friends, plays guitar in a local band, and he doesn’t get mentioned much unless he’s on stage.

Until…he decided I was going to be his first real-life muse, moved himself into my spare room, and started splashing the walls with pictures of my face next to his lyrics…

His weirdness differs from mine, but he’d be a perfect candidate for my hymen situation. Then I could finally move on to the next personal challenge on my list. The only problem is that he’s yet another man afraid of a virgin.

I genuinely never expected it to be so difficult to lose one’s virginity. I think the world has filled me with false expectations of debauchery coming so easily.

The human element always messes up the plans in my head.

GoodreadsAmazonBookbubKoboiBooksBarnes & Noble

author30738425_2169183699778288_5360575298049933312_nC.M. Owens always loves a good laugh, and lives and breathes the emotions of the characters she becomes attached to. Though she came from a family of musicians, she has zero abilities with instruments; she sounds like a strangled cat when she sings; and her dancing is downright embarrassing. Just ask anyone who knows her. Her creativity rests solely in the written word. Her family is grateful that she gave up her quest to become a famous singer.

GoodreadsAmazonFacebookReaders Group — Website

reviewtalknerdytome1

Ok, so I probably shouldn’t write this review when I’m hopped up on caffeine, after taking a short nap, only to wake up at 12 and stare at my kindle until this book arrived, and then power read it through until I finished at 6 AM. The smart thing to do, would be to go to bed, take a nap, relax, do ANYTHING but write this review. Because my hands are shaking and I’m not sure if it’s from the caffeine or the lack of sleep, or the mixture of the two. Am I going to do that though? NO. I am going to write this review while my hands shake, and I’m still wiping the tears from my eyes after laughing SO hard it’s not even funny. Why am I going to do this to myself, and to you, the reader that has to deal with my craziness? Because the KWEEN has left us with a book that makes me want to write this review SO MUCH I literally cannot wait until later to do it. I don’t even think I could sleep right now if I tried!

If you’ve read the Sterling Shore series, then Britt has become someone you’ve fallen in love with since Dane rescued her from a life of living on the streets. If you haven’t read the series, but are debating on reading Talk Nerdy, because you heard amazing things about CM, then I seriously suggest you go and read the series first! It’s worth it! (heh, worth it) The first in the series, Hooked on The Game, is free! Britt has charmed us with her blurting of random factoids, and her obsession with losing her virginity.

The elusive Base Masters has been lusted over for a couple books now. There have been debates on how old he was, why he didn’t come around the Sterling parties, and he’s been drooled over by the women of Sterling Shore. We, as readers, followers, stalkers and peasants of CM Owens, have been teased with the few pages of Britt and Base’s story for awhile now. We were given just the tip, and now that it’s finally here, in all of it’s nerd glory, we have to remember to take it slow!!! If we read too fast, it’ll be over too soon. Don’t be a Cait and read it in six hours. Savor it. Enjoy it.

Or just totally consume it and then be mad at yourself for not listening to my advice. Take it from someone who knows. (That’d be me).

Britt and Base’s story unfolds with some heavy stalker moves, hilarious Bananas encounters, RANDY (nuff said), but also maturing. Base and Britt are still young, and had to learn (much like Raya and Kade did) to grow up. Both of these babies (yes, they’re babies to me in my old age of 25) have a lot of growing up to do, and they are so, so stubborn. They’re relationship starts out relatively easy, with some threats from our favorite Sterling men and encouragements from their better halves, but it also comes with naivety. The kind that can only come when you haven’t had your heart truly broken before.

Britt and Base are so inherently different from each other, that they have to learn, not only how to communicate with one another, but they also have to learn to take interest in one another. Base loves the things that other people find weird in Britt, and loves the random things that pop into her head. He loves when she talks nerdy to him, even when he doesn’t always understand it. And Britt loves when Base sings, even when she doesn’t always understand the metaphors. When these two come together though, it is explosive in the nerdiest way possible (sometimes).

In case you couldn’t tell, this book and this series is amazing. If you’re looking for laughs, read this book. If your looking for heartache, read this book. CM Owens, as always, DELIVERS. So now I sit here, like an addict, anxiously awaiting my next fix.

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA5star