Cracks in the Armor By Helena Hunting

I realize that all the novellas in this series is based on Sarah and Chris and it's probably because Tenley and Hayden's story have concluded but I am now interested in these two, especially after reading that novella.

I love how it's not insta love and they still have issues to work through even though they really are on the same page. It reminds me of every day life and the uncertainty we carry in relationships.

I am still not fully knowledgeable about either characters past but I assume we will be getting a full length novel some time soon? If not, then I guess this is a waste.

Chris seems to always be seeking approval, so I would really love to know why and Sarah is independent but dependent. They both seem to clash on paper but they seem so right together. They understand each other though they are uncertain where each other priorities lie.

I might not know much about their background but what I do know is that Chris is a sweetheart and Sarah is really a softy under all that armour. They are the perfect oxymoron and I really hope we'll get more on them, because though this was nice, sweet and to the point, it's too short to make a full assessment.

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18813945-cracks-in-the-armor

Between the Cracks By Helena Hunting

I find that the prequels for this series are always thorough and detailed in their small time frames. For 50 pages, this was a well written summary or the present and future as it relates to Tenley, Hayden, Chris and Sarah's stories. While we didn't venture much into 'Clipped Wings',we got a segue to what happens after Tenley's departure and a preview of those decisions in 'Inked Armour'.

We got an idea of where Tenley is from and her growth since she moved to Chicago. Some of these things aren't obvious though and you would need to take the time to review her reactions and decisions when she return to Arden Hills.

The thing about 'Between the Cracks' though is that it wasn't Tenley and Hayden overload. It wasn't even told in any of their POVs. It was all Chris looking in and showing us a different side to Hayden, Tenley, Sarah and Trey.

It's very short, to the point where I can imagine it being a nuisance if you were reading it before the entire series was released.

It's packed like a 100 page novella with drama and more. It actually has a story line and progression, despite the speed. It's got me pumped and ready to see what becomes of all the characters with the beginning of 'Inked Armour'.

To top it all off, it's currently FREE on Amazon :)

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22047032-between-the-cracks

Cupcakes and Ink By Helena Hunting

Ok. So I have been in a book slump and decided that I would troll through my kindle library among the many novels that I have and never read. I passed by 'Clipped Wings' and remember all the excitement when this was released, so I decided to start with 'Cupcakes and Ink', then work my way through the series. I am happy I did :)

This series so far reminds me of 'Rule' by Jay Crownover and Hayden might just be a little hotter and better! Sorry Rule :)

I haven't been this excited about a novel in a while so I have rather high hopes for this series.

I only know the basics but I know that the Hayden and Tenley combo should be a knock out! Tenley intrigues me because despite her weird past times and feelings, she remains skittish and I love that she keep a level head, even when she wants to dive in head first. Her fascination with body mod is another element to be added to the clue of who she is and what she is running from or to.

Hayden has zero filter both orally and physically. He makes me laugh in and out of his POV and I can't wait to get up close and personal with the rest of the cast. Cassie is a hoot and the dealings of "The Dollhouse" have my interest piqued.

It might be a story line that we've read before but I love the kick off and can't wait to get deeper in cupcakes and ink :)

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18813938-cupcakes-and-ink

Blonde Date: An Ivy Years Novella By Sarina Bowen

I've never given much thought to the Katie's or Andy, but this novella placed them on my radar. 'Blonde Date' follows Katie Vickery (blonde Katie/K1) and Andy (Bridger's dorm neighbour) on a sorority mandated date. It turns out there is more to blonde Katie than meets the eyes and Andy is just that. Andy. What you see is what you get.

Though it was just a couple hours spent on Sorority Row; drinking and socializing, there is more to this novella than Katie's need for a date and Andy's dreams coming through.We got background information on both lead characters and Dash, as well as, twists, drama and a little adult entertainment.

'Blonde Date' opened me to the possibility of reading a full length novel about both Katie and Andy. Now that I have gotten the opportunity, I wanna know more about blonde Katie and all the pressures that seem to accompany her world. She is more than bandannas on doors and sorority row.

Andy got his time in the spotlight but it's Andy, so the only difference was being privy to his thoughts. I've never thought of him as a nerd, lacking in self-confidence but I liked when he spazz out and over analyzed Katie's signals. There is something about this novella that doesn't try to place them on a pedestal. It keeps them genuine. Katie is a hottie and Andy isn't a 100 on the hot meter but he is one of the good guys and even them deserve their time in the sun.

Thing is, though I enjoyed date night and exam day, I could see these two going their separate ways and remaining friends. A one night stand and fling? Maybe. But the fact that Katie kept Dash as a constant reminder and Dash revealed his true feelings towards Katie, I can see them getting back together. I don't wanna break Andy's heart, but maybe K1 isn't the girl for him in the long run; though we all gotta have our first :)

Dash's POV was welcomed and helped solidify my original thought that just maybe that spark will ignite again, because Andy and Katie are missing one element that Dash and Katie have in common.

As always, Sarina keeps the sex as PG as possible because they are college kids, who are just learning their crafts, sex included and it was actually quite hilarious to get both their accounts of this sexual experience.

If your looking for a quick read while you transition through novels, or just want something light and fluffy, then look no further. 'Blonde Date' is just the right read. It's short, to the point and has enough elements to keep you interested and leave you wanting more. Your're re-introduced to Dash, Katie and Andy; then your gifted a sneak peek at Graham and Rikker's story. Other than a full length novel on this triangle, what more could you ask for?

***ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review.***

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22692381-blonde-date

Pulse - Part Four By Deborah Bladon

I continue to have a love/hate relationship with Deborah Bladon's novels. I felt like we were on a continuous loop to no where and while I like the transition at the end it still left me feeling incomplete because nothing has really been solved. We are sorting through the blow back of Drew and Nathan's bet and for the first time, Nathan doesn't have a plausible excuse. He's just plain wrong.

If you are promised and ending, it would be nice to actually get an ending. This is a cliffhanger and nothing about it is conclusive but I was left interested in the continuation and the preview of her upcoming novel.

A few lame and unimaginative plot twist were revealed which left Rebecca looking like a bigger douche and the unnecessary pawn that is Bryce finally finding his place in all this crazy. I still don't know his purpose o.O

I don't trust any of the characters, except for maybe Bryce and I believe all of them need a personality overhaul. Every one has their issues but the connections are so blatantly obvious and basic that it says a lot about Cassie because she's the only one unable to make said connections. Maybe it's the kids, they do take up a chunk of time.

I still don't know much about Jessica and Nathan but maybe with the next novel we might get some insight. I did learn a few things though and at this stage, while I shouldn't be, I was shocked by some admissions and aspirations but overall this story was slow and plain. We accomplished nothing of relevance.

Jessica's reluctance was a nice change and even her desire to sate her sexual needs could be excused because why mess with it if it isn't broken? Good sex is hard to find!

Nathan and Drew's complete 360 is what puzzles me though, especially Drew's. When did it happen and why? Nathan is still a tool occasionally but at least you saw him adjusting to make space for Jess. Last time I saw Drew, he was being the menace he is and then couple chapters later he's quoting Revelation? Maybe it's just me but I don't like to move through stories blind and I felt like I wore tinted shades for most of this installment.

The sex was talkative but I find that I didn't mind because they had some of their best conversations then and it wasn't overpowering nor did it distract from the sex itself. It remains basic sex but it seems to be the only time they can truly work out their mess.

In the end, we didn't accomplish much from this installment. It held good banter between Jessica and Nathan; showed a changed Drew and gave us answers to a lot of our lingering questions but we were still left with even more questions and no solid conclusions. I will always read Deborah Bladon's novels but I won't ever be able to fully understand them because they are never resolved. It's an endless loop, almost like your going to be living the day to day lives of the characters without an end in sight.

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22397761-pulse---part-four

Pulse - Part Three By Deborah Bladon

If you have read Pulse 1 and 2 then you have read 3. I was not surprised by anything in this novella and I already guessed the end from the beginning. I find myself annoyed and unimpressed with Deborah's leading men and Nathan is no different. He is a douche and Drew is bitter. Jessica is so full of bad luck that she happens to find two of the worse men in Manhattan to mess around with. Also, what happened to Jake?

This novella, naturally, is a short one but I was actually interested in the story and it's direction until I got to the end that emulates all the ones before and that's with Nathan putting his feet in his mouth once again. How many times can your trust be broken before there is none left? That should probably be the blurb for this entire series and 99¢ or not, no one really wants to stop just when things hit the fan again, except for me of course because I am just over these two and want theirs to end so Deborah can start on her next novella series.

The thing with this story is not that I hate it; I actually like the fact that Jessica occasionally stands up for herself and that she takes what she wants without succumbing to Nathan's charms with a not so solid explanation. I have always felt that the women in 'Pulse' and 'Obsessed' deserved better men. Jax redeemed himself in 'More Obsessed' but Nathan just get's on my nerves especially with his weak explanations!

We continue to skim the personal elements in exchange for the deceit and sex. The sex isn't that marvelous but the sex talk and sometimes the conversation leading up to the sex are funny. Yes, funny. I think they have an easy banter and relationship that makes for a good fuck buddy but when it comes to tossing around the 'L' word, I don't believe it.

Rebecca is an odd character and I don't know what her issues are this go, while Bryce confuses me because I really don't see his need in this series and I am able to pick apart all these small things because while it is fast paced, chuck full of sex and confrontations, that's all it is. There is no personal element for me to connect with any of the characters and then it ends just as the next screw up arrives.

I think this is another basic Deborah Bladon story line that gets you interested and drops you in the end so I already expect most of what happens because there is a trend in all her novellas that don't get me excited any more. I will read them, because they are good but my excitement level isn't high because I already know the progression and ending and this isn't me being a cynical romance reader.

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22397757-pulse---part-three

Dazed By Kim Karr

What can I say? I don't really see the point of this story and I don't know what exactly we were suppose to take away. The insecurities, characters and the whole story line was rather basic. At 60% I remembered that we really haven't had "the big blow up" yet and so I was waiting to see what the conflict would be, if any and when it came it didn't blow me away and lasted exactly 24 hours if even so much. Then I don't even know what to say about the ending because it was abrupt, incomplete and inconclusive on a lot of issues. It felt more like a well written and edited draft waiting for that wow factor.

At first I was annoyed with the constant need to describe every one's wardrobe but eventually I got into it and actually liked mixing and matching with Aerie. Jagger on the other hand needs some clothes and shoes. The man is hot with a capital 'H' when dressed right but you use to be a model sir, your closet has got to be better than that of a college freshman. The fact that your mom works for Hermès and your dad, Tom Ford, doesn't help your case either. You were born of high fashion!

I got a different Dahlia and River this time and though their cameos were brief I liked the time spent with them. It was good to get an update without overpowering the story and speaking of overpowering, I thought too much time was spent in the mind of Aerie Daniels, than time spent having real, interesting and valuable conversations. Nothing dynamic or amazing happened except for the colour of Jagger's laces, his car and wealth of random knowledge.

Irrespective of the lag in conversations and an epic story line I liked the characters of Aerie and Jagger. Aerie is on the edge of crazy and I wish we focused on that more than we did her "rebound" issues. Every one is someone's rebound so I hardly find that a conflict or something to create much fan fare about.

I liked that Jagger knew random tidbits because I am always up for learning new things and that seems to be a given when around Jagger. If only he'd pick up a fashion encyclopedia -_-

The sex was also regular but it had it's passionate moments and I like that they just got to the deed, especially because the story line didn't lend to extra long sex scenes.

The 'Connections' series is normally filled with good music and this was no different but unfortunately, we just got a playlist and the music wasn't as tied in to the story line as previous novels. I can still remember Dahlia watching Ben die will the radio blasted 'It's not my time' By 3 Doors Down. Now that's an impact!

It's loosely based around Jagger auditioning for the role of Aerie's dead uncle who was a musician in the best age of rock with the likes of Led Zeppelin but this was by no means a music filled rock and roll novel and Aerie was too easy to convert. Jagger hardly worked for it if at all. I just like that she wasn't behaving possessed when it came to sex. I hate the screamers -_-

There are some relationships in series that don't need highlighting and if we are sticking with this story line then this was one. I think with all the history and connections, this could have been a good one but it fell flat without much for you to get excited about.

We are moving from fake deaths, cheating, years of yearning and songs that tie in traumatic experiences to wine tasting and a ridiculous amount of 'Alice in Wonderland' references. I don't know, I just wasn't gripped. If not for wanting to read 'Mended', I could have done without reading this and the preview of the beginning of 'Mended' didn't hold much for me either but I am a fan of the series and I always had a secret crush on broody Xander so let's see what happens next!

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/19187334-dazed

Fearless By Rachel Van Dyken

If you hate overly romantic romance novels and you are unable to tolerate those overly happy couples who cry a lot and recite every romance Shakespeare ever written then this novella isn't for you. No matter that it's 100 pages.

I am one of those persons but I liked this novella because it was too short for me to find issues with how overly romantic they were and I really loved 'Ruin' and missed that magic that wasn't recreated in 'Toxic'. I finally understand that the feeling only comes with Wes and Kiersten's stories. Gabe and Saylor's story was a disappointment but with this novella restored my interest in this series.

Normally we get the rugged men or the rugged ones that transform into romantics but Wes is just a  natural born romantic that falls in no cliche but his own. I don't normally go for these types but there is something about Wes Michels that you can't help but love.

We continued to get the characters thoughts at the beginning of each chapter and I found some that actually made me stop and think. Wes is a poet and I am often times surprised as to his career field because it is really a clash with his personality. The man barfs rainbows and unicorns! Even Kiersten held her own especially when she started signing as Mrs. Michels. Guess it's done by osmosis :)

This installment basically gave you one of the most meaningful proposal and wedding while lining you up for what's to come in Lisa's novel 'Shame'.

Other than the most romantic and life altering events in the life of Wes and Kiersten and a few blast from Lisa's past, this was a short but sweet epilogue of sorts to 'Ruin'. While I understand the aim and the title, fear was on the back burner in this novella and the few times it was highlighted was in small doses for Kiersten and nightmares for Lisa.

It wasn't filled with many memories from 'Ruin'  I assume because of the depression that followed that installment but there were a few highlights of every one's current fears.

The sex is YA and not much to get excited about because this book is more about vintage romance novels as oppose to the erotica that plagues this generation of romance fiction.

It was short, sweet and memorable as we kept in touch with Wes and Kiersten as they try to conquer their fears together and move on to that next chapter of their life. It might be nauseating to some but they deserve it, After all, 'Ruin' was quite intense!

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20750028-fearless

Still Obsessed By Deborah Bladon

The gangs all back and guess what? ... They haven't changed a bit. Mark is still breaking the law, which unfortunately catches up to him this time; Liz is still shunning Brighton and getting in trouble with Mark; Jax is still a douche and Ivy is constantly floating between the Ivy of book 1 and 3. At least Nathan seemed to have moved on but that's not really confirmed.

I'm the first to say that I don't really hate this series but I hate how it progresses and the endings are usually crap. Each installment always feel unfinished and usually are. This time however, we get an epilogue that did NOTHING for us as readers and a following page to notify us that there will be more, in the format of a special holiday release but here comes to the catch ... you have to subscribe to Deborah Bladon's mailing list.! I would have subscribed anyways, because there is a few novellas that pique my interest but don't force me with a promise of more, from a story that I am interested in.

The issues of this novel are tantamount but they are fleeting as we spend the time with Jax and Ivy having sex to answer every problem that arise. The one time they didn't, I actually liked it because Jax was drunk and saying things that can get him stabbed and Ivy finally put him in his place in the morning, after vomiting out her weak guts in the night.

A lot of major plot changes were thrown in so give thanks that we weren't on a merry go round but not enough depth was given due to the length. I once again believe that at least a 200 page novel is needed to fully tell Jax and Ivy's story and help them through a 1/4 of their issues.

I like that Jax was still a snake and often times resentful because it made this story real. I therefore hate that when we got down to the major changes in their lives we weren't given the opportunity to celebrate and share with them. We didn't even get to meet Jackson :(

I'm glad we spent some time with Mrs. Adams and I am sorry that we never got to have a talk with Mark. Irrespective of this novella being just as brief and fleeting as the others before, there were a lot of changes and issues that covered each chapter as we went. I found myself liking Jax more and coming to grips with them as a couple. Some things fell in place while so much more was left unsaid and unresolved. In the end, I could still do with a good lengthy novel on these two but as is this was a good update installation and I subscribed for the holidays edition because I mostly wanna meet Jackson and see what trouble Jax is currently getting into.

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22400055-still-obsessed

Pulse - Part Two By Deborah Bladon

Here we go again! If it's one thing I can count on with a novel by Deborah Bladon is to have a disconnected alpha male hero and a cliffhanger that has you wanting the next book without being 100% invested in the last story.

I don't know where we are going or the point to this all, if it's to show that it's a bad idea to start serious relationships with people we meet in clubs, or that those same people can be conniving liars. Nathan forever looks like a philandering douche and I am also starting to wonder if Jessica is as strong minded as I originally thought. When the blurb said their past would be interrupting their future I never expected their couple weeks ago past. I was actually looking for something along the lines of before they met. They have yet to even sort out their present and put a stamp on what it is or will be going.

If Ms. Bladon is planning to create a relationship with Nathan and Jessica then I suggest she starts painting a better picture with volume 3 because right now it isn't looking so good on him.

Even though I expected it, I am still over the short story, cliffhanger endings. Other than an unexpected visitor with quite the wrench, I got nothing than I didn't already know, which once again begs the question of where is this story going?

Unfortunately, I am now even more cemented in my previous thought that Jess can do better! This is too much work for the beginning of any relationship and what's up with the M.I.A when in Boston? Do you not own a phone? Does Boston not own a cell tower? I wouldn't be surprised if this man was married with the 2.0 picket fence and a mini van. I just don't trust him and the readers and Jess don't know him either.

Maybe it's on purpose but Deborah has the worse male heroes. They are always sly, untrustworthy, neck deep in secrets and so intense that you can finish the series without knowing them personally. I know Nathan because he is the lead male, anything else is loss to me. We are now through two volumes and I still only know the same amount of information from book 1.

Growth is slow in this series and it's the same back and forth with a little of Jessica's past in the mix. I see where there is currently plans for 4 books and while I have no problem with novellas I still need something more as I go.

On the bright side, I like the scene transitions. It might get a little confusing and throw you off at times but I actually liked the pace and that we didn't have time to pick over every single detail. We don't know where we would land with the next chapter and I liked that unknown. The down side is that the content seemed like those missing snippets from volume 1 :(

It's such a quick read that you aren't even able to bask in the accomplishments of the characters, namely Jessica. She had one break down in this novel that I am sure is necessary but for me it was cheesy because I really don't know these people that well -_-

This content was good enough for volume 1 but now I need some depth so I can cry along and understand their struggles. The frequent sex scenes have become robotic and chore like in their delivery. It was never crazily lustful but now it's even more of a space filler.

I won' say I didn't enjoy my time spent with Nathan, Jessica and even Rebecca but I see this book falling into a pattern and I hope the wait to June 17th won't be in vain. I barely know or connected with these characters personally and I would love the opportunity without all the drama.

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22361699-pulse---part-two

Pulse By Deborah Bladon

Confidence and control? Sexy! Maybe it's me but I love those traits in a woman. Even when our world is crumbling we keep it in and cry in the privacy of our bedroom then move on to the next available guy. This description covers Jessica. She is in control of her life and even when she stumbles she does her best to not fall.

Half way through this novel I figured out the conflict. It's another cliche but I like it, because even though I had my suspicions, I wasn't sure until it was confirmed. I am now on pin and needles wanting to read book two before I even pen this review. I don't know how I am gonna survive the wait to book 3 and it's safe to say what I will be reading next because I NEED to know what happens next. I am all jittery like I just drank a dozen cups of black coffee.

As per usual Ms. Bladon only writes novellas but I love the start of this series. It's more playful than I suspected and even though we don't get enough time, conversation or personal scenes to transition through the different levels of both main characters, as a couple and individually, I was still entranced and entertained for however brief and believe me, it is brief. I read this entire novella in probably an hour tops and this is with breaks.

You don't get much on the characters background due to the length and ties but what you do get is substantial. I already like Nathan but that last stint has me believing that Jess deserves better. I like the airy, innocent quality about her character and the gridiron control she has on herself even when she is hung up on a guy that she knows nothing about.

Nathan, as mysterious as he is, was a great complement to Jess's character until I realize his link at the end and boy are they in the most precarious of positions! The sex was not very passionate or hot but it was wild and filled with the urgency, angst and energy of two random strangers having casual sex. I could see them growing as a couple but at this point they are very impersonal in their interactions with each other.

Nathan is the definition of alpha male, territorial and untrustworthy. He is a devious man and I see no excuse especially with his predilections to Jess dating other men. The man needs a reality check ASAP.

I suspect this novel is an introduction so it barely skims the necessary but I am engaged, interested and invested to see the end. Unfortunately, that means the other two novels need to be exceptional as Ms. Bladon has a habit of starting us off with trilogies. There is many a way this breeze could blow and I don't want a quick patch.

Light and skimming the surface this was a good, quick read with a solid cast of characters and the right level of fun and entertainment. Nathan barely redeems himself from chapter 1 but Jess is steady all the way and with Rebecca, Bryce and Cassandra in the picture I hope it only gets better!

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22119128-pulse

Reasonable Doubt: Volume 2 By Whitney Gracia Williams

It pains me to say this because I am a big fan of Whitney Williams but I fear that this story might turn into another 'Arrangement' series, where we get really small moments in time before breaking to the next volume. Books cost money, yes, 99¢ is still money, so it's really not fair the amount of content we get but we buy these books anyway because we love the authors and their work.

Volume 1 was an introduction and I am fine with that because it was a powerful and memorable introduction that lined you up for so much more that I couldn't wait to get my hands on the next copy. Therefore, I genuinely expected more than I got from Volume 2. I like that Andrew kept his blunt personality and we even got some more information about his character from New York with not only one this time but two flash backs to before Durham.

It's all the same issues though with a new variable in the form of his ex-wife that was mentioned at the end of volume 1. It was average sex and a blow job lesson that was quite crass but that's fine.

There is no real growth in their relationship, because even though he is out of his comfort zone for a majority of the second half of this novel which we are not privy to details, by the end he is right there again and I don't feel like I know them well enough as individuals or a couple. They have great chemistry when it comes to arguing and I find that I like that and Andrew's blunt, conceited personality more than I did the story line. Those and the length of this novella were the saving points for me.

Personally and professionally Andrew almost remains the same with the exception of getting his real name and a look into his relationship with his ex-wife. Some might say this is progress and should be enough and it could be but it's how it was delivered. I can remove so many unnecessary scenes and conversations that could make way for more or better timed reveals.

Aubrey seems stuck in a rut also because nothing has changed on her front. She did 1 ... I repeat 1 ballet duo in the entirety of this novella so the cover kind of stump me now because I was looking for a full on ballet themed performance. Call me crazy!

It's the same old characters doing the same old things with the introduction of Andrew's ex-wife. The editing and writing is fine but I just think the delivery was weak and I really expected more growth in the content than what we got.

For another author, this could be a work of art, but Whitney has set the bar ridiculously high and I just don't think this is her best. She strives on packing the most intense feelings, emotions and stories in the smallest of packages so I don't know what went wrong here.

I wouldn't not recommend this novella nor skip out on reading the next but I didn't get much from this volume and I am hoping for a better volume 3. If that will be the end then I expect her to pull out every trick she has in her bag because she is gonna need it to not fall on a loop again.

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22175981-reasonable-doubt

Tame Me By J. Kenner

Firstly, Jamie Archer has too many issues for it to be summed up in a novella, even if it is only part 1. There was no background or base to their relationship from our POV therefore, I  didn't believe their intense feelings for each other in the end, which then led to me being bored. I fell asleep 3 times reading this novella and one of those times was 1/2 hour after waking from a full night's sleep.

It's not that I don't think that they could make a good couple, it's just that I need to see it begin and develop, or at the very least, a flash back to where the feelings began. I am sure it wasn't from seeing Jamie semi-naked and masturbating on Damien's chaise. I understand lust and a good old roll in the hay but the deep feelings that followed seemed abrupt and unbelievable (Not in the good way). They could work as a couple but show it to me. A quick sex in LA and bet in Vegas does not a relationship make.

Jamie was confident and I love that. Damaged or confused, she knew what she wanted and she wasn't afraid to take it. Literally. I don't know who was getting tamed though because she never once put up a fight.

I'm sorry but I can't see Ryan as a dominant and it's not only because he works for another dominant alpha male but there were times when he felt like he was in control and Jamie was actually leading the whole scene. The illusion of him being a dominant is just that. An illusion.

We never met them but the mention of Jamie's parents had me wanting to meet the couple that was so in love that they disregard everything around them inclusive of their daughter. I also don't feel sorry for Jamie's logistics because regardless of her parents infatuation with each other she should know love and is the catalyst for all her insecurities. Your mad at the world because they take you at face value? How about you show them that there is more to Jamie Archer? If anything I am looking forward to is Jamie gaining some confidence in her own confidence.

Ryan is a male lead that was needed in a story. It's his story and the man still takes a back seat to everything. Sometimes I even forgot he was the one she was with. He doesn't do much for me in this installment as he was more a bodyguard than a lover.

Also, what's up with him tracking her every where she goes like a jealous boyfriend? I am not even gonna touch on the James Bond ending he starred. I just wanna know if Damien knows how company resources are being used o.O

Ryan is a nice guy but tell me more. He is too forgettable as he literally and figuratively fades into the background like an every present shadow. He plays security detail very well.

The sex was in a good time frame from amount to length. I was already falling asleep reading them so I can't imagine them any longer. I did enjoy the story outside of the sex and inner rants of Jamie and I think that watching them build a relationship and life in LA would be a good and interesting story as the base of this one left me bored and looking to give up on everything Stark related.

This novella had it's moments but they were few and far between. It seemed very chopped and summarized and not because it's a novella. You could literally feel and see the massive jumps especially in the end. I had to skip back a  page to find out what happened between she sinking the gas and him jumping out of helicopters.

I don't believe their level of connection right now, but I think with a better story line, focus and progression I could be persuaded to read the next copy. In the interim, I was left bored, uninspired and ecstatic for the the end of a 80 page novel. I swear it felt like 400!

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/19282938-tame-me

Being Julia By Sandi Lynn

Never say never people, because after reading 'Being Julia' and a snippet of  'Lie Next to me', I could become a Sandi Lynn fan. It is tentative but possible :)

This book was mostly what I expected and it was tastefully done. There was the right amount of drama, comedy and life changes. The right scenes to highlight important moments were chosen. By the end, I find that I would have preferred a novel for Julia, because I loved her story and I wanted the opportunity to know Jake better. I feel a better connection with him than I do Connor.

I love the relationship between Julia and Collin, especially with she being the eldest and female. It doesn't matter for these two and I like that he went to his sister for advice and provided a shoulder when she need one. I wished London could have stayed to be Julia's Peyton, but I think it also helped transition Julia from teenager to young adult.

Her interactions with different family members and friends gave us updates on all the characters we loved from the 'Forever Black' series. It even allowed us that precursor for the next novel in the series, without making it as blatant as past novels.

Yes, It is 23 years later, but every one seems to be alive and some holding on by a thread to see the Black family conquer the barriers life throw their way.

Julia and Collin find their own path and we see both of them lose their virginity and the events after. Collin is currently sweet, loving, caring and quite the opposite of Connor Black when we first met him. I can't wait to see where it all went wrong for him. Julia matured from a materialistic, hormonal teenager in love to a wife. She was witty, funny and fierce, which I find important if you are the child of Ellery and Connor Black.

Recollections of Ellery and Connor's life together was done tastefully and at just the right moments. I was surprisedto see Ellery and Connor handle the issues of a teenager with such finesse, as oppose to their chaotic beginnings when Julia was a baby. The man still has anger issues and I am surprised he still has a liver.

There is growth and progress in this series with the introduction of this novella. It's more than just the kids growing up, as we get to see Julia at some of the most important stages in a girl's life. Sixteen and hormonal; eighteen and going off to college; getting married and having kids in your twenties.

The development and progression was timed and even though we still lacked a proper sense of time, I didn't mind. I enjoyed spending time with the Black/Jensen clan and I couldn't have asked for a better representation of Julia. All I wanted, was a full novel to experience life with this crazy, fierce girl that we got to see from birth to motherhood.

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18721133-being-julia

Uncomplicated: A Vegas Girl's Tale By Dawn Robertson and Jo-Anna Walker

What is wrong with these people?!!! No one behaves like this or makes up the justifications that they do. Stop it, no one lives, talk, or behaves like this, even f they are current and retired call girls on the Vega strip!

This story really is uncomplicated. You know how sometimes your reading a story and you just wanna get to the good part? Well, this story cuts out all that suspense and gets to the point. I am thrown as it relates toa concrete feeling about this lack of filter and many quick progressions left me baffled and staring. I keep wondering, where is the build up? While I keep thinking that this seems rushed, I didn't quite feel it. I am so confused!!! I don't hate this story, but it is a ridiculously developed and delivered one. The progression, conflicts, characters, everything is all over the place!

Mathis ... first off, I hate his name. I kept thinking of the insect or whatever called the Praying Mantis. I did this every time his name was called. He is crazy with a bit of anger management problems and either he is using subliminal messages to get his way, or Jenny is such a horn dog that a few whispered words get her anywhere and place he wants. Once again though, somehow this works for THEM.

Speaking of Jenny Sunshine, which is her real name by the way, yes, imagine my shock that it wasn't a skripper name! Jenny Sunshine is in the building with her bible thumping parents whose presence I can't fathom. They did a cameo in the first half of the book and then they were eaten by large Praying Mantis :)

Ok, that last bit was a joke, but where were they?! They were totally M.I.A. for the remainder of this novel and life changing doesn't explain the month Jenny had. This book took a whole month to pit two strangers together and give them lifetimes worth of issues. Bare in mind, that at this point, you can count on one hand, how many sensible conversations they had, that didn't lead to a fight and/or sex.

They were insta-everything. It took them 3 days time in total to declare their love. After that month though, there were more yellow tapes that the authors just decide was not needed, so we fast forward a year, get some stuff out the way, fast forward another year and called it a day. As I said in the beginning ... uncomplicated!

I keep wondering if it's the Vegas heat that has fried every one's brain, but all the characters in this novel are either crazy, depressing, freaky or drunk. Efficient are these authors, because they gave us a lifetime worth of issues and friendship in 191 pages with enough issues and outcomes for an at least 300 page full length novel. Did it work? ... the jury is still out on that one.

You need patience, a quiet corner, so people don't see you crying and laughing like a loon at all the crazy and ridiculousness that takes place and are discussed in this novel and an extremly broad, vented, open mind. They are depraved and surely don't reason like the rest of the adults in the world. On the bright side though, they don't believe in going to bed angry, so every chapter ends on a happy note. Oh, I hated you for 15 years? Worry not! A visit to my office and a half hour of conversation, we are right as rain and ready to face all life's evils together!

This is a tight knit group, so with the exception of one mercenary type character, every one had their silly, cliche positions. Best friend, bodyguard, whore turned assistant, drunk, bitter ex. You name it, they had it! Let's not forget the underground life of a European born night life entrepreneur. Yup! Let the cliches reign!!!

I don't understand much when it comes to the past and even sometimes the present of the main characters, what I do know, is that they both like dominance and are extremly competitive. Hence the reason they even ended up together. It always a battle for dominance with these two.

I could stay here all day and outline this story with it's wild progression and crazy cast, but get some patience, time, understanding and try it for yourself, who knows, you might like it! It's not every day we get to see crime syndicates break of their own volition, just to get into more illegal activities on the Vegas strip o.O

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20619926-uncomplicated

My Last Resolution (A New Year's Novella) By Whitney Gracia Williams

You have got to be kidding me! Come back with the rest of my story Ms. Williams! I wanna know what happens and I certainly don't see a follow-up book for this story! WTH was that though!!! Arghhh!!!

It's safe to say I loved it! It was short, sweet, spicy and packed with so much into it's 118 pages. We not only meet two complete strangers, but we get to understand them as individuals and accept them as a couple. Though not much on Blake's part, we got a load of history from Paris.

I initially hated her name because I am not a fan of names of places for a person's name, but I completely forgot about that and everything Nashville the moment he said "Your in my seat"

I felt like I knew both main characters for years and had invested in there story for the same amount of time. It was fiery, detailed, romantic and memorable, without even leaving the house. It's phenomenal to see what can be packed into a well written, developed and delivered novella. This was more fulfilling than the last two full length novels I read.

All important issues and conversation were covered and we got clarity and opinions from all necessary parties. I will be the first to say that my initial reaction was that this chick is crazy! I still think she is, but the way she takes control of not only her life, but events and a room for the matter, is magnificent. They are the perfect match and there was never a dull moment. I am desperate to know how their story will end but I doubt we might ever get that, because it might take away from the path chartered for this story.

The emotions were real, so were many of her thoughts in relation her ex. I understand the feelings and the inner struggles and monologues; I also understand how some one might interpret this story as too much of a fairy tale, but I never got that. It could have thread the line, but it was no where near.

Maybe this story has been told before, but it's new to me. I loved all the characters, Adrian included and i think it held a flair of originality. I don't normally do road trip novels, because I like stability, but I loved this one and hope to see them acclimate to their separate lives, together. The appeal of them as a couple is too strong!

We only got one in depth sex scene but I loved it! It comprised of both sides and gave you soft and hard depending on what you like. There were a lot of reverse rolls also and even missing some pertinent information on Blake, but I never felt the lost and lived in every moment.

After reading two novella length books and a prologue to a novel, it's safe to say that Whitney G. Williams is now one of my new favourite authors. I am sincerely a fan!

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20657248-my-last-resolution

Reasonable Doubt: Volume 1 By Whitney Gracia Williams

I have never heard of or read a book by this author before, but I can say that I am now a fan of her work. No offence to those published authors out there, living their dream and feeding their families, but sometimes self-published novels have an air and quality about them that published ones can't measure to. I always say, that "starving" artiste (I mean that in a good way), normally produce some of the best works.

Without a reasonable doubt, I can say that I enjoyed this story. I love the characters, detail, story line and development. For the first time, I could actually manage them throwing each other up against walls, without rolling my eyes to the sky. The thing that has me weary, is her wanted career path. I am one of those persons who ALWAYS have a plan B and thoroughly believe in stability. Therefore, I kind of want her to be committed to being a lawyer.

I like all the characters so far and even the cliches are tolerable. There isn't much spin or twist to the story line from others of it's genre and subject matter, but there is something about Aubrey and Andrew that makes you fall in love with them and exclude them from the group some people would say they are firmly apart of.

Andrew is a douche to everyone but Alyssa; He is witty, intelligent, sarcastic, sexy, possibly and introvert and quite the dirty talker. I don't mind that this novel has two POVs, but I currently slightly prefer Andrew to Aubrey's POV. He got me from the first page and I just kept on yearning for him right down to the last.

Aubrey is quite the hellcat when provoked and I love her "honesty", I say this tentatively. She adds fire and intensity, she is outspoken, confident and it completely baffles me, as to her lack of friends. I loved her instantly and her banters with Andrew are hilarious, spicy and always end with some arousing kink free sex. It's raw, gritty, passionate, unexpected and in just the right amount of doses.

This novel is all about pace; You have to pace yourself for Andrew's, past and the demons he are trying to outrun. You also have to pace yourself with regards to their future, because Andrew's past is unknown and the present is murky at best.

I love the details and time placed in each conversation and scene. I am actually shocked that this is novella length, because so much is packed in there without you paying attention to the length. I have learnt so much about and from both, while still waiting on the superglue to tie everything together. Maybe Andrew will lend me some off his office floor :)

The ending is unfortunately firmly in cliffhanger territory. I'm not gonna front like I'm not disappointed, as his secrets are crawling from their holes and his reaction after Aubrey's last revelation is definitely on my mind. I am thinking up all sort of scenarios at this point and dying to meet the new addition, as well as, to figure out what took the hot shot New York lawyer to North Carolina.

There is many more to learn and experience with Andrew and Aubrey. I love them as individuals and as a couple, which I believe is important in romance novels of this nature. If the characters don't know themselves, how will we know?

Their story flows while it brings heat, sexiness, mystery and joy. There is always something happening or being revealed and the main relationship dynamic, has me excited in a way I haven't been in awhile with new stories.

I hope the continuation will keep this momentum and I can't wait to see what book 2 brings. Hopefully, it's a little longer, because I have fallen in love with fire and fire; It can make the biggest blaze we have ever seen or it can burn until it fizzles. I personally am voting for the first option, so I shall cross my fingers and toes until the next installment.

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20761374-reasonable-doubt

Torn Epilogue By Kim Karr

So, this is River and Dahlia's last night in Paris on their honeymoon. They do the tourist thing and discover a piece of history in a Paris brothel now turned club. It's surely not much and can be read in 5-10 minutes. We also get to meet Jagger, whose novella is next in the series.

I decided to read this first because I didn't want to go in 'Dazed' wondering who is Jagger and what is he bringing to the table.  Turns out it wasn't necessary, as we literally only meet him. Other than his basics, that I imagine we would get regardless, he's a background character and so is his mom, Celeste. I am not certain what to expect from or with him. That's good and bad I guess, as it keeps the mystery but loses me also. I really don't know this guy and need to like him in the span of a novella. Let's see what happens.

I don't remember Dahlia being a fashion, sex kitten, but I guess Paris will do that. There was the inappropriate sex scene and the teasers throughout. Still, it's nothing to write home about and I wish it took us on their honeymoon play by play, instead of a blast to give us an update on their time in Paris. It doesn't even set us up for what's next in the series, after reading, your guess is as good as mine o.O

It wasn't bad though and as I said before, it's a quick read for those who just want some more River/Dahlia time.

***Get your FREE 'Torn' epilogue here***

http://www.authorkimkarr.com/uploads/1/6/5/1/16516876/torn_epilogue.pdf

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/21799536-torn-epilogue

Obsessed - Part Three By Deborah Bladon

Would you look at that?! I swear I keep getting the wrong copies that are missing pages. I refuse to believe, the structure and main characters in this novel, isn't an accident. Ivy is annoying and feels sorry for herself way to much! When she isn't feeling sorry for herself, she's bitter and trudging her way through a tug-o-war with her ex-fiance and the new "love" of her life. He claims he "loves" her too, but I think he loves his company more. Mark is such a rascal but I love him nonetheless. At times, he reminds me of Nolen Adams from 'Black Butterfly' by Sienna Mynx

It's the same old games and drama from books 1 and 2, then a beautifully worded letter, followed by the acknowledgement o.O
Now do you see my problem? I can't understand how this can be called the conclusion to the series, when only Ivy has gotten her answers. Then again, even she should need some loose ends tightened.

Other than Mark and his mischievous self, the remaining characters of this novel were completely ignored, even when they were needed to confirm and tie a bow on this bad boy! There are too many holes and what ifs, which brought to light for me, that Book 3 didn't really progress. It answered a few questions, brought up a hell of a lot more and then ended. Hence, the reason I don't believe that this is over, as their are too many loose ends and a big "what the hell happened?!" at the end.

On the bright side, I felt twinges of connection with Jax this go. I am no where near loving him status, but he shows potential. I would have loved to be included in the build up that led to his complete 360 on the literal last page of the novel, maybe even that one scene could have made a difference.

Let's not even talk about what was really in that video on the flash drive. It could have been more creative. In trying to find Jax, I ended up losing Ivy's character. I give up on trying to understand and navigate this novel and remain on her side. She fluctuates between the Ivy from the first chapters of book 1, to the naive, lonely, desperate Ivy of books 2 and 3. I just wanted the bag of wit that had me engaged when I began reading this series.

All the above and more was bearable because this is a short novel. With time, you can read this novel in a hour and a half tops. I don't mind novella material but being that it is suppose to be the "last" book in the series, we could have gotten some more pages because we really did need it.

I am starting to wonder if it is the length of these novels that diminish the attributes of Jax that compels Ivy. My dislike for him lessened by 5% with this installment but I still am unable to connect with him and vote for him in the land of book boyfriends.

The sex was fast and to the point, so thank God for that and Jax being a douche. Mark is a little criminal with a whole lot of mouthy. I expected more and not just as a reader, but as an observer. A ton of questions were left unanswered. Like where is Mark now and why the sudden change in Jax?

It doesn't feel like an end to me and the eye rolling was back with a vengeance in the beginning chapters. I am unable to completely write off this series, because I believe that it is filled with potential but in need of more pages and for the characters to share the small moments that are more important than they think. 200 more pages and we could have had a star!

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/21460976-obsessed---part-three

Obsessed - Part Two By Deborah Bladon

Someone please change the name of this novel and give us back the Ivy of book 1. This Ivy was naive, annoying and searching for love in all the wrong places. It's like she reverted to a teenage version of herself. At this point, I can see her by herself, but I doubt she would. If I was a psychiatrist, I'd even go as far as to recommend it. Some people needed a breather, she is one of them. I am waiting to see what it is she sees in Jax.

I still haven't connected with Jax, but I can say with certainty that he is a controlling douche. Maybe there are points to his personality that I am missing, but those two are the ones that stand out for me. He has yet to win my vote. A vase of Daisy and a cheesy little necklace doesn't do it for me either. I hope this is the aim of Ms. Bladon, for the character, because based off principles alone, I dislike the personality of most of the main characters in this novel.

I think I have figured out what the obsession in this novel is, but it's not what I expected or wanted when I first picked up this series. Reading this story hasn't gotten me interested either, as I believe that deception runs more rampant than obsession.

I liked Mark in this installment, especially when he stood up to Ivy in the last half of this novel. I assume he is suppose to be the bad guy, but when he's not sleeping with half of Manhattan, he wins me over. We know that he cares for Ivy obviously, but his self-preservation tactics in the face of Ivy's naivety, is the closest to reality we came in this novel.

There were a few scenes, that needed more weight than they pulled, like the ones with Ivy and her dad. Fret not though, because most of the reveals of this novel like book 1, was drama filled but complimented the issues and current situations well. This story is moving full speed ahead. In some areas and in the name of development, that speed is welcomed, as it's a novella. Still, it sometimes need to get a hold of things that thread the unrealistic line.

As short as this novel is we have met new characters, learnt more about the old ones and spend some time with Ivy's life outside of Manhattan. For all the misconceptions and my lack of attraction to the lead male, I can stick with this story to the end, mostly because it's not that far away.

Swimming in cliches with a questionable cast, 'Obsessed' surely knows how hold my attention at the end and Ms. Adams is still her nosy, lovable self. I might have rolled my eyes repeatedly by the end of this novel, but I am sure I am gonna pick up the next installment, because I did remain interested. As is, I have only one favourite and no expectation. I am not as invested in this story as I thought I would be, but thankfully it progresses, or it would have been a complete failure for me.

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/21460967-obsessed---part-two