Hudson By Laurelin Paige

Is it possible that a companion novel can hold more feelings than the original body of work? Yes, it can and 'Hudson' is the perfect example. If not for me reading another companion novel late last month, I would probably say it's because I read this story before and I loved it. However, this was like a fresh tale to me and I completely suppressed Alayna's side of the story, as I focused on Hudson and what made him into the man we saw in the trilogy.

The quote at the beginning of this novel was apt for the focus and I find that I loved going between the before and after to piece together the puzzle that is Hudson Pierce. I felt like I was revisiting all the characters and seeing them through new eyes.

Sorry to disappoint, but I think we spent more time on the Hudson/Celia dynamic, than we did the Alayna/Hudson aspects, but we had already explored those from the 'Fixed' trilogy so it was good to see a different side in the mix.

There were new twist and scenes that were never exposed before, that made this story whole; while shining a light on Alayna in Hudson's eyes. All her flaws were lauded and I forgot she was battling her own issues.

Hudson laid himself bare in this novel and I had a great time dissecting. He was cold, calculated and an addict in his own right but I always had a soft spot for the crazies and Hudson is the King of that hill! I have never thought much about people with disassociation of emotions but this novel has made me take a stop and look. Though it was entertaining to see him do his "experiments", it also showed how lost he was and the underlying issues that eventually made way to the perfect Hudson. He held some of his old qualities while he finalized the biggest experiment of his life ... himself.

Playing a big part in his past and eventually his future, Celia is a character that sways you. You want to hate her but she is so well taught that you don't know what to do or feel. She makes me wanna threaten her with death too but then I remember the Celia in the beginning chapters and remind myself that she too is a product of Hudson's illness.

This story is a twisted tale that held all the right notes and moves. It was more than the characters themselves and gave us a more in depth look at the Pierce/Werner clan and what was ahead for this insane group of friends and families.

Jack continues to amuse me as a character and Chandler was just as absent. I am selfish enough to admit that this story answered all my questions but I still want more; I wanna see Hudson handle temptation and Alayna off the wagon because there is something about this couple and how they strive within drama.

The story line doesn't only visit the past and present but the future as well. We got some answers as to what happened after their wedding day and I for one was grateful for the update. As I said before, I can't get enough of these two.

Naturally, there are elements from this story that reviews previous scenes from the trilogy but the best thing about this book is that coming from a different POV makes everything seem like a new story. It never got repetitive and I was never bored. If anything, I wanted to read the trilogy again and I assume that's the aim of a companion.

I will admit that you might get a different opinion if you start reading this exactly after the 'Fixed' trilogy but I can assure you that you will get variety and a fresh story line for you to invest in. I loved this story and I am extremely happy that two of my favourite characters were brought back to life with the right balance of past, present and future. I shouldn't but I still wanna ask for more :)

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/21417430-hudson

Behind His Eyes - Consequences By Aleatha Romig

Even though she has technically only written this one series, I am a  fan of Alethea Romig's work. I even liked 'Consequences' when I stumbled upon it last year but I just couldn't get behind this story. I was disinterested and wanted to give up at the end of every two chapters. I only found myself wanting to look back at 'Consequences' for one scene only, so I could match their reactions. Maybe it's the layout of the story or the fact that there is little to no conversation and a day in the life of Anthony Rawlings is just flat out boring. If he isn't beating Claire to a pulp then he's not as interesting as a character or a man.

This novel was suppose to fill in those blind spots and get you into the mind of the man that is all about sacrifices, public presentation and paying for your actions. What it did for me was make me wonder how I could have rallied behind Claire, Tony or their story. She eventually became an idiot to me and he's just a calculating murder/rapist. My reaction to Catherine remains on the fence and I now wonder when did she decide to become the wicked witch of Iowa.

This installment was the equivalent of an average size novel and even though we might have needed this standard amount of pages to review the important points in 'Consequences', I think it was too much and that saw us in boring business meetings that I believe became a bridge to transition into scenes, which found me struggling to get through all Tony's inner ramblings and business deals.

The chosen scenes from 'Consequences' were important and some I wish we didn't get clarification because in the end, I came away with the one simple conclusion that Anthony Rawlings is a calculated demon who should be castrated and tortured. Harsh? Yes. But for a man that craves trust he is the last person on earth i'd give it to. His brain washed agenda can't even cover for his deception and predilections. I am now actually surprised this wasn't BDSM.

I can still argue the different scenes in this story, so at least it was still good, clean and properly edited content; I also like the time line at the end even though I believe the more interesting time lines are in 'Truth'.

It makes no sense to dig into the actual story and review because I said it all in my original review of 'Consequences'. I have nothing to add about the details of the content or the progression because they are all the same just from a different perspective.

Overall, I was bored, disinterested most of the time and praying for the end. I had to force myself to focus because Tony's POV is not the most interesting or endearing. I don't know what went wrong but I just wasn't feeling this novel. Will I read the next novel in the 'Behind His Eyes' series? Probably. Just don't count on it being any time soon. I need a breather after this one.

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/19545007-behind-his-eyes---consequences

Demon At My Door By Michelle A. Valentine

This was a fun, fluffy and dark version of  'The Time Traveler's Wife'. Even though it was a paranormal novel, I occasionally had to remind myself that the aim and path we were on was to stop a demon that was days away from claiming her soul. The story as it progressed became airy and fluffy with serious undertones closer as got to the end.

Ms. Valentine is a good writer and she gives you stories that you can float along and feel comfortable with but they rarely  have those blow your mind moments! This was another of those good stories but it was also flat. Nothing really spectacular happened and while I was interested to the see the end I could have skipped a few pages to get there.

As it relates to decisions, the final ones were kinda crappy and made the entire novel seem redundant. I am baffled as to her final choices and completely unaware of what made her come to those decisions. I understand setting the stage for a book 2 but this finale was not it. It's like we unwound the entire book 1 to make way for the next in the series.

On the plus side, I liked the main characters of Natalie, Rick, Stewart and eventually Taylor. In my mind, I've already made them up to be a super demon fighting team. Each character has and brought their own elements that helped to enhance the experiences within this story.

There are a few discrepancies, especially in Stewart's world with his abuse and true identity but I can't really disclose those without spoiling the plot for potential readers. All I can say is that he must have not been beaten enough because the Stewart at the end of this novel wouldn't have the marks the Stewart at the beginning received.

I like the occasional bad boy, so you can just imagine how in love I was with Rick. I had already put the pieces of the puzzle together with his entrance so I got over his big reveal and reveled in his version of bad. Currently, I would want him to find another chick, who helps funnel that bad side that brings the sexy smirk I love so much, instead of the ever doubtful Natalie who really does not have much care for her soul  as she thinks. The girl seems to have no trouble bartering it away regularly like it's a piece of beef jerky.

I got to respect Taylor a little more at the end of this story but we barely got any time with her so I hope that book 2 will see us interacting with her more. Where Lilim is concerned, I know we will be seeing her again, I just don't care much about her character right now.

Stewart has always eluded me because he was too bland and all american to hold my interest. So I didn't care to note his reactions and personality as the story progressed. He too however got more interesting in the end and also brought another major discrepancy with Taylor being all besotted to him in light of her revelations. It became one paranormal style college drama.

There is no penetration sex in this novel so it's heavily NA based but that's fine. I do hope though that book 2 gives us some demon sex cause it looks like it would be a good one. Once again though another discrepancy formulated with dude levitating. Why? Gravity seemed to be holding you just fine all the other times.

The final fight in this novel was hilarious more than serious because it was straight out of a 'Looney Toons' cartoon. I wouldn't be surprised is they drew for an anvil hammer as they kept summoning weapons out of thin air like a video game. That was too much fiction even for no limits, deal making demons. It also brought up the discrepancy of who can see these demons, as a character with an unclaimed soul, who wasn't marked for death, was impervious to them freezing time and that went against every thing we were lead to believe over the course of this novel.

There is an abundance of loose ends in this novel and juxtapositions a mile long! I was however kept engaged, intrigued and interested as I made my way through the chapters to the final decisions and lines drawn in the sand. I loved the early banters with Natalie and the 5 year old demon, as well as, the times spent in the present trying to break the contract with said demon.

Natalie kept this story interesting, fierce and most importantly, moving. Even if we were thrust right back to the beginning by the end, there wasn't a break in momentum and the story kept steady to the end as we went against the rules on the countdown to doom.

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16300439-demon-at-my-door

The Beast By Jaden Wilkes

*crickets* ... What was that? o.O

I just read that? Really. I just did. I want my day and a half back. The blurb was promising, the beginning was perfectly balanced with history and present and then they met and it all went down the crapper and never came back.

I don't mind reading a book about depraved sociopaths but the time frame, events and epilogue was ridiculous! It was unrealistic, unbelievable and just plain bad. The thing is, I think I could actually like this author because of her sense of humor but I just can't get behind this story as a complete body of work.

The time frame of the story itself is let's say a week because 5 days sounds really bad. The epilogue ... I don't even know how much time later than was. Dimitri, the most used Russian name in literature, is a coward who kept running until his "girlfriend" and I say this loosely, helped him exact revenge. A revenge that I expected to contain much more build up and execution.

This novel is an attempt at erotica masked as a mob themed romance. Columbia is more of a criminal than all the vile men in this novel, Sergei included, because I don't know how hard it is to find a wealthy recluse if you really want him dead and what Russian Bratva enforcer hides away and literally plays with his wounds for years, then run when his enemies get close? You feel safe Columbia? I beg you to reconsider! Also, where is the face off scene where you get closure and real information as to what happened to make your friend literally light you on fire?? o.O

I won't even knock the insta-love, lust and everything else but make me believe it. These two could be the next Bonnie and Clyde but the conviction and delivery weren't up to standard. It was rushed and quite frankly annoying because it started off so well. With that ending also I can't understand all the queue of other novels in this series because it seemed like that was a wrap.

The sex had BDSM elements but I wasn't interested. They weren't memorable or even sensual. Quite plain actually for a couple with an asphyxia fetish. Dimitri was quite vocal in his sexual needs but it still wasn't anything to write home about. The fact that they only knew each other a day didn't help either.

There is a scene in this novel where Dimitri tries to explain an emotion to Columbia and he says that he might struggle to explain because his English isn't good. Listen here people! The man says one word in Russian throughout this entire novel and it's .... *drum roll please* ... Bratva -_-

His English is better than most of the people I know and my first language is English. Not even a few broken sentences were placed to show his struggle and I initially thought that was fine because he did explain earlier that he had speech experts to help him in the past but then all of a sudden all that is forgotten as he explains himself in plain as day English. See what I mean? You have got to make me believe it Jaden!

There are a few elements that did it for me though, like the fact that it was based in Canada. It's always good to leave the USA scene and I personally love Canada. It's one of my dream countries to live out my last days so I loved the time spent here. I've never been, so I can't confirm, but I loved the few culture details and hope they were accurate.

I like the Columbia we got in the beginning who was the embodiment of an environmental activist regardless of her motives; the Dimitri before he was the literal "Beast" and even after when his paranoia was at it's prime. His concierge, who seems to be without a name, reminds me of an English butler and I wish we got to spend some more time with him because I love me some English butlers and he seems like a loyal, possibly hilarious one, if only we got the time.

I will admit to liking this story in the beginning but it fell away as soon as they met and kept the same trajectory to the end. The chapters became repetitive, conversation was less and because we spent more time in both of their minds we had to read them recount the same sex scenes we read in the chapter before. It was rushed, heavily based with sex and the dark and twisted wasn't really dark and twisted. Their minds are crazy but their actions left me bored :(

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/21474143-the-beast

Bang By E.K. Blair

Is it wrong that I am currently more interested in seeing what other people think of this novel than I am sharing my views? It's not that I don't know, i'm more itching to find out what every one else think because this is one for a book club.

It's hard to explain how I really feel because I don't really know what I am feeling. I just spent the last 3 days reading this novel and I am just as confused as when I started and I would be lying if I said that I wasn't pissed with this ending -_-

This book is one big mess and only E.K. probably knows how to clean it up. The story line is solid and never waving but at the same time, the story isn't constant and the characters, except for maybe Declan and Bennett, are extremely damaged and the biggest douche canoe of them all is our guide.

But guess what? ... I loved it!

It takes a steadfast state of mind to like the narrator of this story and the men are all pawns in a scheme that is bred from pure misfortune turned abuse. It might not be a bad story but when you can't trust the narrator, you will have some problems when you just wanna escape her deceit.

Bennett was the biggest player in this novel but he was also the most absent. He spent more time in Dubai than he did in Chicago so I didn't get to know him like I did Nina, Pike and Declan. He seems like a good guy who got caught in a web that's laced with more poison than a snake and we don't even find out his purpose until the end of this novel and by then his fate is sealed. By the time Bennett gets some sense and I feel like we might have a good battle of wills, it's bang and we are left waiting to see who if any one survives part two.

Pike and Declan got a lot more light but I spent so much time focusing on the con in this novel that I didn't get the time to focus on Declan;'s character as much. He is passionate I will give him that and he is quite the understanding kind; sexy as hell in the kitchen and one of the nastiest and most possessive men I have ever read about. I am NOT down with that waste matter life. Piss somewhere else Mister, I am not a toilet!!!

Pike as a kid could make any woman fall to their knees. I loved that little boy to the point of obsession from we saw him coming out of that truck with Carl. I even loved him some when they grew up. He was constant, dependable, damaged and fighting for the worse live that was dealt him from the age of 2. I know you will all think I am crazy but I still love him. He got a ray of light after spending all of his formative years in terror and abuse and it's becoming a little hard for him to let that go. His actions? ... undesirable. His light was snatched from him and he retaliated like an angry abused man would. The years would wear on anyone.

Unfortunately, his anger brought this whole story to it's knees. I keep wanting to rewind because I am confused as to how a situation can tank to these levels in such a short time. If they get away with this it will have to be on a much more complex level than Pike and Elizabeth's reasoning.

I empathized with a young Nina because she had it hard and to hear her first introduction to sex would chisel any cold heart a little. The abuse in this novel was raw and painful but Nina erased those feelings to the point where I was unable to stand her inner monologues anymore. The chick is crazy and needs some help. I had a difficult time deciphering her emotions because just as I feel like I know what she is feeling, she reveals her real thoughts and I feel just as manipulated as every one else in this novel.

It's either hot or cold no lukewarm. I can't trust any one in this book because everybody has an agenda and their moral compass is all over the place. This is a complicated story and it is impossible for you to put a definitive name or emotion to the final body of work. It's a struggle from beginning to end so don't expect to ever understand or pick a side. There is no side, it's every one for themselves!

I can't say much without giving this book away but I am also a bubbling mess because I need someone to discuss what it is I just read. I truly believe Pike and Elizabeth could have a different path but is that eve possible now?

E.K. Blair has written emotional novels before but I never expected this level of emotional from her. The story, formatting, editing is impeccable and you can see the time and effort placed in creating the final published work but it's also so confusing that she will either end up giving us one of the most splendid stories in this genre for the year or it will tank and leave us gaping. The complications and web can lose even the best of authors.

I commend her though because this story had me even when I wanted to skip the wavering sex scenes to get to the necessary points. It was like a video game as you tried to get up to the next level. I might have dislike the narrator and remained in the dark for 90% of this novel but I won't discount that E.K. Blair wrote another spectacular piece and I really hope Carnegie helps her out in the end with this one because she is gonna need all the help she can get and he seems to have all the answers.

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22065449-bang-black-lotus-1

Broken By A.E. Murphy

I need to process this book that I just read and I don't even know how. My skin is literally prickling after reading this novel and between the ending and the preview of book 2 I am left shaken, confused and hoping Nathan isn't as crazy as I think he is, because from germaphobe to killer is quite a bracket.

This story has three distinct tones that you might miss because you are so wrapped up in the story line. There is the light and fluffy bordering on unrealistic beginning, the changes and growth in the middle and the convoluted and uncertain ending.

I was tempted to stop reading when I began because the beginning wasn't the most solid of starts. It felt very naive and filled with childish fantasies and actions, so I was skeptic while wondering who are these Disney kids? Then everything goes to hell and I literally see the story switch to heartache and unbearable pain. They might not have fell but my eyes did quite the job today at holding my tears at bay. One more painful description and I'd have been weeping like a baby. We moved into a more mature setting until we finally transitioned into the unpredictable ending and even more frightening preview.

I connected with every single one of the main characters. Caleb was the fun, fairy tale side and I loved and missed him with every bone in my body. There will never be enough time passed for you to forget this character. I was depressed with her and felt every pity stare and brick wall to a shelter.

I love Gwen. I thought her silly at first but she completely won me over. She was loyal, fierce, opinionated and real. Yes, she's hormonal but she respected herself and Caleb even when he was no longer around. She had literally found her soul mate and no matter what any one else says I will always love him for her. There is no man in the world like Caleb and even though we might learn some of his secrets in the next novel people can change and he did. We never saw a bad side. He was the loving, caring, compassionate boyfriend to the point of being selfish. Prevention is better than cure and he could have prevented half the pain Gwen endured if he had prepared properly and spoke to her about what they were really up against.

Though I am irrevocably in love with Caleb this story has two sides and the lead for the next is Nathan. I like Nathan but I don't trust him. It took not only Gwen, but myself as a reader, time to warm to his character and before I know it, I was acclimating to his current role and medical condition. What came at the end though just stirred me even more and got me wondering what will happen next. His next move will determine if I continue to get to know and like him or loathe him forever.

It's impossible to not get tangled up in this story. The characters are real, their decisions are tough but their own and resentment runs rampant with hate and indifference. The sex in this novel is virginal and is PG at best. It was all about the story line and I love that. We followed the lost of a promising life; a single, homeless, unemployed almost widow trying to get by and a man with a literal vault of secrets and quite the mental illness.

Once this story picks up speed, it doesn't slow. It holds you and dare you to take this journey across the pond. As usual, nothing beats a good UK novel written by someone from the UK or at the very least, with a strong hold in their culture. The dialect was definitely British and I love using my dictionary as I sorted through British slang.

It was an emotional roller coaster and I didn't wanna get off this ride. There is a moment for every one and after the first 10% I was hooked and couldn't put it down. I read it all in an afternoon as I was unable to move until I saw 100% on my kindle. This is normally when I know a book is good and has you right where it wants you.

 I was surprised at the authors age  because the pain and struggles were real and spoke of more worldly experience than her 23 years. All the same though, congratulations on tapping and unlocking some intense feelings and reactions.

I love it. I recommend it and what makes it even better, it's currently FREE on Amazon and Smashword.

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22018461-broken

Buying Thyme By T.J. Hamilton

So this is a first, normally when I am finish reading a book, I check on other reviews in the rating category I feel best describe said book. I can normally find at least one review that mirrors my own. I am out of luck this time, as none seem to capture what I am feeling. Either they are too good or too bad. I feel like this book fell in the middle and threaded both lines occasionally.

It's not what I expected and I didn't build a connection with any of the characters. I found myself wanting to see Joe and Toni again, but being disappointed with Tom this and Tom that. Maybe I did make a connection in Joe, but he is lined up will a bulls eye so we spent more time with his competition.

I am completely unaware as to the background of all the characters. I am only even sure that two (2) people used their real name throughout the novel. It was to the end when we got some insight into Miranda and by then I was over her character. I even so much as cheated and read the synopsis of the other two novels in the series, before finishing this one and I still have no sense of direction with regards to the story and it's characters. Where is this all going? It's one conspiracy theory after the next.

I am assuming Joe Tench is suppose to be the bad guy, but other than a very wrong ballet session, he seems like an ok guy to me. Yes, his decisions in the end were dramatic to say the least, but c'mon Miranda! You would have thrown a fit if you caught your man cheating on you!

Miranda plays the role of a "high class escort" well. She is committed to her craft and possess quite the system. It's not a hobby, it's her job and she attacks it with vigor, pride (as much as is possible) and dedication. Honestly, she enjoys this, because she hardly never climax. She is just as attached to these clients as they are, but she keeps in mind what time her pumpkin will arrive. I'm unaware of her background and I'm not really interested either.

Emphasis was placed on explaining every single detail and by the end, I had nothing of value that's memorable, as I see the beginnings of a whole new story line about to be come to life. The coincidences at the end were not ironed out either and had me questioning the rushed ending that did nothing for me. The only person I am interested in from this novel is Joe and he seems to be gearing up for a very bad ending.

The story is set in Australia and I realize I have been venturing in that pond as of late. I love Australian stories, because it brings a totally different lifestyle and culture. The excessive details became an advantage in capturing Australia from a real Aussie's perspective. If she lied or messed up a detail, I am unaware because I believed her in everything Aussie related.

The story line became increasingly confusing as we progressed and I didn't see half the danger or feel a smidgen of the emotion that Miranda felt, as she narrate. I don't mind reading the next novel in this series, but I will take a break in between for fear that I might not like the next one. A clear unbiased opinion is best and I currently need a break from Miranda and Tom. I can already see this series gearing up to become a Nikita without the Agency. Miranda is a prostitute and a very good one at that. Training her to become a spy? ... I just can't see it!

What I found interesting, was that so much time was placed on elaborating every little make up trick and accessory, but the ending was rushed with gaping holes. How does she run away and drop off the radar of such a high ranking Government agency, that a crime boss himself had to leave the country, to stem off some of the heat? Especially the fact that she is 8 hours away lying on a beach o.O

When did her brother call this Nick guy and was he waiting on the call? Cause he got there awfully fast! I was neither impressed or captivated with this story. The story line got crazy and everything turned into conspiracy theories.

If not for a total of maybe 5 scenes, I would surely not think of Mr. Trench as a crime boss. Maybe he is; that's fine, but I need to believe it and I don't. The only thing I can state without a doubt from this novel, is that Miranda makes a really good call girl.

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18040477-buying-thyme

Underworld Champions By Ella Stone

Everyone keeps talking about this book being similar to some other biker novel. I haven't read that other novel, so I can't confirm or deny, but from my perspective, I think this novel brought it's own flavour to the world of bikers. I also appreciate that it was set in Australia, as oppose to the US and they spoke of their US charters instead of the other way around.

Once you have read one biker novel, you've read them all. The basics are the same, the names are ridiculously inappropriate or aiming to drive fear and the women are doing and aiming for the same thing. I have yet to find one on the caliber of Madeline Sheehan's 'Undeniable' series, but this one didn't do too bad in my opinion, I have definitely read worse.

There were some overly sappy moments and a few conversations that were premature in my opinion, but I eventually acclimated to it all and appreciate it for the individuality it possess for me.

Maddie is not your usual broken girl or biker novel heroine. Yes, she had a rough life, she is running from her past and a person in said past, but she faces it all like such a trooper. She doesn't curse and moan about her sad life and if not for her nightmares and occasionally voiced insecurities, you would never know that she is a really damaged girl that isn't even looking for love. She is looking for a better future and life, I would actually believe her if she gave that cheesy romance line of not looking for love.

Maddie is feisty, witty, straight forward and has no problem speaking her mind. She take what she wants and makes no apologies for it. She is a bad ass and I hate seeing her lose some of that fire as the novel progressed; She fell into a mold and she wasn't the girl that challenged biker's with guns and broke into their homes.

I don't understand or know much about Cole, or his feelings for Maddie, but he says they are there and they seem to work as a couple.We didn't get much of his back story, but there was so much going on that I didn't notice until the end. His family is a mixture of depravity, confusion and so much more.

Speaking of endings, this one was sad and depressing. I think it all happened too fast for the impact it possess and regardless of what the author wants us to think, I do blame Maddie and I am sure others do and will in the upcoming novel. The lost was surreal and personal for readers. It was over so fast that I didn't get time to reflect or review on the fallen. Major characters, that I expected to maybe even get a book of their own, didn't make it to the last page. I started hoping for the fairy tale recovery and after math. I got none :(

Maddie and Cole are like bunnies, so expect a lot of sexing all over the place. Public and private. It was entertaining to hear how some members got their alias and I definitely think Mango tops the bunch :)

Tthe story line is a good one but I would have loved to spend more time with Maddie and her immediate family. I didn't mind the insta-romance, but I wanted some family time too. I think it was important in this novel, especially as we got to the end.

This is a quick read, because I got up, read it then got ready for work. It's fast-paced, sticking to the points and wasting no time in getting to the matters at hand. It replicates no other biker romance novel that I have ever read and the characters and their personalities grow on you. I never heard of Aussie bikers before, don't even know if they exist, but I did like this story and have no problem reading the next one.

It's not perfect, gripping or that intriguing of a novel, but it's interesting enough and comprises of a different point of interest and scenery. Not only are the hero and heroine far from shy, they follow their own rules and take us on quite the ride down under!

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20625140-underworld-champions

Until the End By London Miller

I find the last chapter more interesting than the novel in it's entirety. If not for that last chapter, I would see that as a cat and mouse game with a last minute conflict that technically has nothing to do with the Bratva personally.

I also remembered that I do hate cliffhangers and I found out that I am more invested in this story than I thought. I have always dismissed this story as a comfort read, that's neither intriguing nor boring, but at the end of this installment, I am left reeling and needing to know what is coming next, a feeling I link to being invested in a story.

The players are moving and a mafia war is on the cusp. The possibilities are endless and the addition of Naomi and Klaus has me tethering on the edge. Yup, I am even more interested in this story now that I don't have book 3 waiting in my library ... #karma :(

The story line and characters continue to grow and we get introduced to new characters and secrets every day. Mishca is starting to behave and embody the role of a Bratva captain and I don't know who is this Lauren, though she is still feisty and out spoken. With the proper training, I could see her as lethal, at the top of the criminal ladder with Mishca. Vlad and Luca would make good right-hand men. I doubt either of them would want that though, Mishca through his fear of unintentionally hurting Lauren and Lauren because she believes in justice too much to lead a FULL life of crime.

With the budding romance story out of the way, this novel focused more on beefs (no, not meat) and secrets of Mischa's past. Yup! There is skeletons in this man's closet that I am dying to get a hold of! Klaus in particular, because I just love a good Russian enforcer!

There is no dwelling in this novel, it's constant and with every new day and setting sun, someone is changed. Alex of 'Until the End' is surely not the Alex of 'In the beginning'.

For all the progression in the story line and characters; the grammatical, spelling and editing errors were still more frequent than I hoped. The narration also threw me off a lot and had me doing a few reviews to figure out whose POV I was in. The chapter titling helped in the last novel, but without it this go, I had some struggles. This series so far needs an editor or friend to review and correct some of these glaringly obvious editing mistakes.

The dynamics have changed, with not only the world of crime, but Lauren's friends away from Mischa's life. People are changing to acclimate to the war that is brewing and forces are being realigned. Lines are drawn in the sand and every one seems to be stepping over said lines.

Even with the editing errors and the slow pace at the beginning of this novel, the end and future of this series have me captivated. I think this series will get better as it goes and the length is perfect enough to not bore you before you reach the end.

Don't look for the people you left in 'In the beginning', they are gone. Every one has made decisions and this story is moving forward towards a blood bath for more than one reason. If the teasers are anything to go by, I could come out of book three hating Ms. Miller or loving Mischa and Lauren even more.

New players, new games, new rules ... it's all coming to a head and this is just the beginning!

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20887269-until-the-end

Last Breath By Jessica Clare and Jen Frederick

I will admit that it took me 5 days to finish reading this novel, but it is no way a reflection of the novel itself and just a busy week for me. It is actually a short one sitting read.

The Daniel we got in 'Last Breath' is not the one I remembered or thought I would get from 'Last Hit'. He's not a bad hitman, but he just seemed so much more whimsical and convicted in 'Last Hit'. He was more of an air head once he started spending time with Regan and I swear, given the right author, he would have died two fight scenes into the early chapters of this novel.

I didn't pay much attention to Regan before and I didn't really connect with her now either. I find that I love the men of this series, more than I do the females and only Naomi seems able to change or challenge that. She left an impact on me as a reader. I have always professed my love for the crazies, but I think this is my first female love in this category.

 I love a good Ukrainian or Russian based novel, so the introduction of Vasily was also great. We didn't spend much time with his character, but it's made me excited for the next novel in this series. I had hoped for some Nick time, and while not a lot, I was ecstatic to spend some time with one of my favorite hitmen.

The base of this story is one we have read before and I feel as though the execution and build up was very soft. I wasn't on the edge of my seat, as it was extremely easy and laid back in relation to it's issues. The gunfights were few and the hand to hand combat was more than we got from 'Last Hit'. I have no problem with the fighting or executions in this novel, but I would have loved more feelings from the characters and scenes. If your gonna nail a man to a cross and burn him alive, I wanna feel and believe it.

The romance aspect left me boggled, as I was unaware, as to when they fell in love. Was between raped repeatedly and having mutual masturbation? When exactly did the love happen? I was actually waiting for him to train her as an assassin and they travel the world as mercenaries. Guess it's just my imagination running away with me again o.O

Daniel was quirky and cool, he's one of those guys that you would just love to be friends with. He kept up the humour, excitement and pretty much added the soul and life to this novel. Left up to Regan, we'd be clinging to a pole, feeling abandoned. I preferred his narration to Regan's and I would surely read another novel about him, without Regan.

Regan is supposed to be damage. However, she reminds us frequently as to her shortcomings and we or I, certainly need those reminders, as I sometimes think she was raped once instead of repeatedly. What I appreciate from her emotional wise, is her occasional resentment to Daisy. It is warranted and completely normal in her circumstances and it adds a realistic element to her personality.

Even though I didn't connect with the romance of this story or Regan, I love Daniel, Vasily, Naomi and Nick. I believe it's a well written and edited novel and I have been a fan of Jessica Clare since I read 'Stranded with a Billionaire'. I became a fan of Jen Frederick when I read 'Last Hit' and I will continue to support this series, because I love the crazy characters and their navigation through the world of crime. They aren't the top of the crime food chain and that alone gives them their own original spin.

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/19207601-last-breath

Underestimated Too By Jettie Woodruff

I am conflicted, even though I loved this story from beginning to end. I was engaged, excited, interested and hanging on to every moment with Drew and Morgan, even the terrible ones. Still, I felt like the last two chapters were really abrupt and came off as a summary, as oppose to the detailed solutions I got accustomed to from book 1. This novel was half the amount of pages as the first and I felt as though we needed another 1/4 worth to make it complete. It's a good ending, but I don't like the time spent to reach that ending.

Don't expect this to be 'Underestimated' from Drew's POV. Though that was the aim, it took on a familiar but creative approach, that was able to mix past, present and future. We were in the present, living, learning, growing, while stuck in the issues of the past, trying to find our way to a future.

The voice Morgan found in 'Underestimated', after her accident, was still there but not as strong as before. It was sorely understated, which led to the first time since picking up this series, I actually hated Drew and despised Morgan. I know the fairy tale wouldn't last, but I didn't expect the reactions and decisions we got either.

Shocking thing is, when the solution my mind lobbied for in the beginning was brought to fruition, I was totally against it! I think I understand this couple, on an unhealthy level. It takes experience and a huge open mind to not get offended by the events of this relationship and series.

Drew's "POV" in this novel was precise for the time of recollection, as well as, hilarious. He recalled some very significant moments from book 1 that we weren't privy to, and some that I never even thought about until then. Morgan's reactions were also comical and helped to lessen the serious nature of the sessions with Deidra.

This novel uncovered even more damning secrets. Because it's Morgan and Drew, there was always drama. It was constant, non stop and each situation was different but similar. I imagine this to be just the tip of the iceberg, but what a tip it is! I now understand Drew Kelley like never before and boy are his skeletons meaty!

To top it all off, we got a Lauren/Dawson update and confirmed one of my previous suspicions from book 1, as it relates to Nicky's father. What I did't expect at the end of this book, was to hate Lauren. That chick is a rhymes with witch and had us all fooled.

Though I wasn't his biggest advocate, I could do a novella with the Maine sheriff. Irrespective of my undying love for the wife beater, that is Drew, I did like the Sheriff and his easy going love making. Not a full length novel, but a novella for sure!

We got to watch Nicky grow and Marta is definitely a better nanny than Rebecca was to Morgan, just as better a friend as Alicia is over Lauren. Morgan finally voiced some of her resentment and I would have loved to be apart of every one of their counselling sessions. These two people are messed up in the head, bed and everything they do in life.

The sex remained the same, as we focused more on the issues at hand and of the past. We learn the truth behind Andrew, Michael, Andrew's mom and Morgan's past. They make for quite the soap opera and turned as many old stones as possible.

I was content with the story line and development. My main disappointment at the end of this novel, is being unable to enjoy the future. I never wanna leave this couple, but I don't want their spark to die either. I could see myself even reading a novel with all the kids in this novel grown. I'd love to see Drew and Morgan deal with a hormonal teenage son :)

Don't look for rainbows and puppies. This is Drew and Morgan. It is angry, abusive, dark and twisted. This is romance done the Kelley's way. If you hated 'Underestimated', you won't be a fan of 'Underestimated Too'. It's worse, because of the love and family they share. It's raw, primal and not looking to make friends. It's all about them and I loved it down to the last letter on the page.

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20492283-underestimated-too

Underestimated By Jettie Woodruff

I've been having a splendid book week with novels that I didn't even anticipated! I just stumbled upon them. I sorely underestimated this book before I started to read it. I thought it would fit into the mold of dark romances and while it seemed to start like that, it quickly carved its own piece of the pie. When I began reading, I wanted the back story, as I hate starting in the middle of anything. I soon found out though that, that was the best place to start.

Seeing the past in flashbacks, dreading the future and uncertain of the future gave this book dimensions. I didn't understand that serious of an accident in the middle of the novel, but when I saw the aftermath, I was snickering like crazy at the possibilities. I was actually pissed at the anti-climatic reveal :(

I was hooked to this novel like I haven't been in a while and I never wanted to put it down for a moment. I lost sleep reading this one, because even though it was long, I wasn't shocked when I realized that I passed the 50% mark. One you get into this story, you don't wanna get out.

This story isn't for the unforgivable, feminist, judgmental type. It's not as dark and twisted as I expected, but it was overwhelming in the beginning. I had a love/hate relationship with Drew, because I just couldn't see the man redeeming himself. Before even getting to the second half of this novel though, I knew I loved him out of the options. Regardless of what happened, I stayed team Drew.

I like the dark ones. I think the men that carry an edge and dare you to dream with your eyes open are the best, even though they have to be taken with a grain of salt. In my personal life, this could never work for me, unless in the bedroom. In a book though, I am all for the Caleb's, Tony's and Drew's. The men that know what they want and don't care whether you want it or not. Even though I loved that he's a part of this community of men I love to hate, I loved his individuality and the fact that he depended on others to survive. His business was also intriguing to me as I have never read about that sector before. Getting off the business circuit was good, so was seeing another side to Vegas.

Separate and apart from my undying love for Drew, I was crazy in love with all the characters. Every one had their part and the fact that this novel took it's time and span over 10 years only made it better. It gave layers, development and within all the dark twisted fairy tale, showed realistic expectations and decisions. People and relationships, even friendships never stayed the same. They evolved like how things happened in real life. It was a pleasure to watch all the different stages. Kinda like a butterfly, but not as boring :)

I always loved Morgan/Riley, but I believe that a lot of people won't understand or like her character. It took her forgetting completely who she was, for me to get behind her 100%. She was always fiery and her inner monologues were just as good as her spoken words. I could not have asked for a better narrator. She was feisty and I loved it every time she back talked Drew! When she got pissed though ... God, she was a beast!. To watch Morgan defy Drew was hilarious and sexy all wrapped up in one big bow.

To forget Dawson is impossible, because he helped shaped this story.Without him, neither Drew or Morgan could have developed to where they were by the epilogue. I never hated the guy, but I wasn't his biggest fan either. There were sentimental moments and times when I felt like he might be the one, but I spent most of this book waiting to get back to Drew.

Well written and keeping me on the edge of my seat, at 75% I couldn't take it any more, so I peaked. I could not wait to find out who she would pick, if anyone in this installment. Yes guys, she did pick! Knowing though, did not detract from the story for me. I was even more interested to see how it would play out. I expected this story to mirror 'Consequences' by Aleathea Romig but it didn't. I noticed a Rawlings mention and wondered, but it wasn't big enough for me to dwell on.

The sex in this novel is raw and perfectly portioned and detailed. I find Morgan to be a sex fiend but it helps when you have the right partner. I loved the dirty things she and Drew did and didn't mind the love making with both guys. I think this is my first novel where the cheating didn't bother me. I understood even though I had my pick.

I was in no hurry for her to choose, because it kept the drama and tension high. I still wanted her to pick my guy and let us live out our HEA. I also thought we would get a little more Justin time/reunion. Maybe a next time, I don't know. Even with all the information that we got and the two biggest closures at the end, I still felt like there was some missing information and people that needed tying up.

I could sit her all day and go through each chapter of this novel, but I say buy a copy and experience it for yourself. It might feel familiar, like you might have read this story before, but believe me that enough unique traits and events are present to lock and keep your interest. It's a steady build up that ends with two powerful forces that take you on a world wind ride to their finish. You won't agree with everything, but it wouldn't be dark and twisted if you did ;)

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17913288-underestimated

Death of a Rock Star By N.J. Frost

Have you ever read a book that just left you with this buzz where you just can't wait to share it with the world and waiting on the conclusion is ripping you to pieces? Well, So have I and I can't wait until I get to read more!

If the prequel and the preview of the first novel in this series is anything to go by then sign me up! I was beating on my kindle, wanting more, even knowing that all I was getting was a preview.

I think this will be my first real, gritty, rock star romance novel. It's not glamorous, it's full of history, truth, angst and a playlist that's to die for!! (Sorry Jamie)

I spent a hour, before going to bed, to start and complete this novella. I was hooked from the first word and I never want to let go. There is a raw passion and vibe in both the characters and their works. I wanted to experience life with Jamie around, get in the mind of Sylvie (hate her name btw) and experience every high with Blake. I want it all, even knowing the outcome for Jamie.

N.J. Frost even went as far as to give us a Jamie POV. It is sad, haunting and strikes a nerve. This novella was jam packed with emotions and I can just imagine what a roller coaster ride the story itself will be.
The current characters are filled with conviction and spice. The drama is real and constant. I was extremely emotional for a few pages, that's really suppose to help get me ready for the main event.

This group of characters are eclectic and I am waiting to see where this will all go. I won't say there is potential, because that's a given! I just really hope the final product lives up to this unmistakingly good preview. I am excited, buzzed and waiting on the release of this story, that drags you throw the dark side of rock and roll, all the way across the pond!

It will be epic!!

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18713426-death-of-a-rock-star

Slave By Sherri Hayes

Well that was an abrupt ending o.O

'Slave' is definitely not what I expected but it was good enough. I was more engaged and interested at the beginning of the novel, by the end I felt like we didn't really accomplish much with the length of the novel. It became repetitive and I still can't get a good read on either of the main characters.

My copy is an Amazon purchase, and it comes with an audible.com narration sample. It was good and it gave voice to the character of Stephan. I still preferred to read on my own. It however, wasn't able to hold up the rest of his personality throughout the novel. I don't hate him, as I don't really know him. I could not tell you his true preferences or reactions. The man is stoic without even trying. Brianna isn't much different, she is so "trained" in her ways, that it might take 12 editions to see a crack in her shell.

We hit the ground running in this one. Unfortunately, it began to drag by the middle. We were experiencing every single day and detail since Stephan was aware of and bought Brianna. We even recapped situations we just read. I understand it was to provide clarity, but I just wanted to see some life in both of them. The oxymoron of it all, is that it also gave a more realistic time line, which I loved. There was no over night make over in either of their lives.

Brianna is a tough cookie and doesn't make it easy on Stephan or the readers. You have to work to gain her trust and believe me, it isn't easy! When you do crack that shell though, it's beautiful! She is not only a beautiful character, but what is left of her personality is memorable. She had a rough past but I love the development, to get where she is now, as well as, how she recollects and tell her past.

I don't normally care either way if a book is concentrated with sex or not, but I do know that I crave it for Brianna and Stephan! I think these two are going to have awesome, explosive sex and I really hope it's in the next book!

We might not get as intimate of a profile in regards to Stephan, but we got the basics. Something that bothered me throughout was his job and finances link. Owner or not, do people in his field of work roll around in dough of that caliber? o.O

Moving on, I never got to see him in his full DOM role and the glimpses weren't all that hot. What he does though, is ooze sex without being over the top cheesy. It's natural, gracefully and tastefully executed. I am without the sex to go on, but I would totally sign up to be this man Sub and I ain't even into that life!

That brings me to the the few moments where I hated both characters. Him for partaking in this lifestyle and she for putting up with it. The feminist in me got angered every time she called him "Master". In the bedroom ... maybe. Outside of it ... NO! I couldn't fully get behind the bandwagon of acceptable standard slave activities. I am well aware that it's BDSM and if you aren't cut out for this lifestyle or too strong willed like myself, you will be offended. Therefore, I had my moments.

I liked Lilly and Logan and once again found myself wondering what it would be like to "play" with them :)

This book needs room to breathe and grow on you. It has it's good and bad like every novel out there, but it is a good enough reading companion, if you can get over the demeaning recollections. There is definitely potential and I can't wait to see where this series will go.

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12185213-slave

Savage Delight By Sara Wolf

You have got to be kidding me! All the time. All the time Sara Wolf, all the time! Sighz ... yup! It's another profanity cursing cliffhanger ending. It was almost predictable this time, but it still left us in the middle of a big life altering situation. As to where we are going and the so called happy ending, I can't see it! o.O

On the bright side, we learnt a lot more about Isis, Nameless, Sophia and Jack. Everyone else is utterly confusing and I don't see the need to even try, so I don't bother. This story is churning in a blender with a million situations, outcomes and characters. It's one big mess and I can't see it all straightening in one book.

Isis continues to be her crazy self and that's putting lightly. However, we finally get to see what lays beyond the sarcasm, wit and random acts of craziness. She is old enough to sleep over with a guy and be the crutch her mother needs, but her personality is that of a twelve year old. I will never understand that.

This story will annoy you. Especially if you don't read it in one sitting. The characters are immature and the conversations are petty, confusing and random. There is though, many moments of laughter, clarity and deep seeded issues that occasionally appear more mature, than the intended age group.

The revelations are very anti climatic and the major shockers continue to be the literal ending. I truly don't understand half of what I just read, so I left this novel more confused when I began. I do know though, that I liked it enough, to want to read the next. I love the characters of Jack and Isis but Knife guy will forever have my heart :)

We got Jack's POV this go. Sporadic as it was, it had it's moments of clarity also, when it wasn't repeating the exact thing that we read before. It is hard to explain, but the most annoying traits of these characters is what draws you to them in the first place.

Jack is a thick block of ice but I love when he describes his feelings for or towards Isis. Isis is annoying, plain and simple, but her witty comments and comebacks help to keep this twisted, confusing novel afloat. Each character play their roles well, but I still can't put together the pieces of the puzzles that is this story.

We finally spend some time with Sophia, but don't expect much on that front either. The chick is coo coo crazy and I don't see what every one else does in her. A part from her being the block between Jack and Isis, the girl is pure evil and quite the manipulator. Her act at the end of this book, I believe was strategically done, to make the rift even bigger between Isis and Jack.

This is a dark, twisted tale of high school kids who behave like 30 year olds with major Nancy Drew/Hardy Boys complexes. Nothing is what it seems and revelations are revealed in the blink of an eye without any build or release at the end. It's a cluster of everything that's crazy and I can't wait to find out what happens next.

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20759913-savage-delight