The Life By Bethany-Kris

I am conflicted after reading this novel because not only did I assume the story was done but that last scene has me sweating and unsure if I wanna read book 3. Seems Bethany and myself has confrontation issues.

I love the Avdonin's and I don't like the possibility of meeting a grown Demyan under those circumstances. Plus, I always like to give this series a break before I dive in to the next, as It allows me time to process and decide on what I just read.

Those who follow my reviews will notice that I was down for a while but I'm back and writing this review required me to read my review on the first book in the series. Turns out it's much of the same but with a few developments, more loss and a more familiar vibe. Some of the characters loss their personalities too. I don't know why!

I lost the Anton that I loved from book 1 and I am not surprise as to his upcoming problems. He got sloppy. As a matter of fact, this novel was more baby centric with Bratva business in the back seat. Romance and family took the forefront and the major conflict and scenes weren't given the delivery they needed to make an impact. They passed liked another chapter or point in the story.

I figured out the culprit; chapters away from the reveal but I have no clue as to the point behind their "master" plan and I hope the next novel might fill in those blanks.

Vine's character also died within all the chaos. As a matter of fact, all the characters got lost in the preparation for the baby and I am not sure why because not only did it not affect them all directly, but where story line is concerned, this book barely had one. It was still addressing things of the past, whilst preparing for the birth of a Russian mafia prince; but that was it.

The sex scenes did nothing for me either and I wished those parts were used to make lasting impacts like the final scene.

It sporadically held my interest, mostly in the end and left me interested in the future of the Avdonin clan. Still, this novel served more as a buffer to the initial arrangement and Anton paying for his sins. It was monotone and weak with noticeable grammatical errors. Still, I will be reading book 3 as soon as I can get over my fear of controversy.

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22092769-the-life

For the Record by K.A. Linde

I completed 'For the record' a few weeks ago. I wouldn't blame the length of time I took to read this, on anything else, but myself and the book slump I have been in as of late. Too many disappointments had me taking a break.

Still, 'For the record' was another good novel in the Record series, even if it was more tame than the others.

It's life after going public, as Brady and Liz try to acclimate and build a future around scandals, lies, doubts and one tenacious red head and her misplaced hate.

I find that this novel was more about family and politics. Even though they were suppose to be tackling their own demons, this novel was smooth sailing for Liz and Brady, with a few minor glitches.

The mystery was gone, so we focused more on the politics and everyone else surrounding the characters; namely, Savannah and Clay. They were like an old married couple giving out advice. It wasn't the intricate story line I expected and I saw the main wrench miles away!

Though I must give a nod to Callie's master plan, because it had me guessing to the end. It was a good, well placed and underhanded one. Still, the reveal could have used some work and her misplaced hate for Liz bored me.

Liz and Brady peaked as characters, so 3/4 of this novel was about politics. I wasn't disappointed though, because I enjoyed getting to understand and see the behind the scenes of a political campaign. I prefer a new course to a forced romance.

For those sex fiends, I'm sorry to notify you that though there is sex, it's nothing to get excited about. It mostly happens in a bed and Brady is the definition of white collar sex. Hot or not, without the hiding, he's a plain mama and papa kinda guy!

Liz got lost for me. She felt cookie cutter, especially towards the end and while I get that this novel was about transitioning, I wish she was a little more dominant than the one time she put Heather in her place.

'For the record' was an excellently written novel with a stable story line and steady progression. It brought closure with continuity and introduced us to a host of possibilities in continuing the series without Liz and Brady at the helm.

K.A. Linde has yet to fail me on delivering a solid novel and though not what I expected, I adapted and enjoyed it. I would recommend it to those who aren't sure about finishing the series or those new to the series and are looking for a well-written political novel.

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22361799-for-the-record

Pretty Instinct by S.E. Hall

Without meaning to, this novel clarified for me why Hollywood marriages rarely last long. Tight quarters; uninterrupted time spent exclusively and in secluded spaces for work will make strangers think they know each other for years. Enough to get the three letter phrase and walk down the aisle.

If you follow my reviews you know I am not a fan of insta love stories, especially ones of this caliber. Still, I enjoyed the story for the most part. Liz's humour and Connor's lack of a filter and love of fish, yes, I am weird like that, my favourite pet are fish, made it easier to relax and get to know the other characters.

Contrary to what you might expect, the music brings them together but that's where it ends. This story focuses more on the insta love story line and Liz's past than it does C.U.N.T (name of the band) and their musical journey. I think they should get the award for "Most pointless tour in history". So if your looking for a full on rockstar romance, then this can only fill half of that need, but it does have a good playlist :)

Liz is spunky and does a great job of narrating the majority of this story. She is fierce, fiery and did I mention funny? "You don't eat my pussy or pay my bills so you don't get a say" will remain my favourite line in a novel until it gets a worthy successor. Meeting Cannon made her a cheesy romantic but occasionally, the Liz I love broke through.

Cannon, with the exception of his name, is too good to be true. He is the epitome of price charming so I never really got into his character. I like my guys with a little edge! He had his moments in the bedroom but outside he was too much of a pacifist. I'm sorry, but no new girlfriend should have to face off with an ex-fiance while the guy sits in the car. It's not cute, it's cowardly!

As story line goes, this one had too much, but only one interested me and when I finally got the answers, I was sorely disappointed. Vaughn sums it up best with his appearance. This story was longer than it needed to be, especially with the fact that the interesting things didn't happen until the end and by then, we were staring at the chapter long acknowledgement. Hope she got everybody o.O

Vaughn I believe, is the one character that got the summary of this story right, to the point where I would read a novel about the little sociopath. Yeah, I apparently like 'em dark ;)

If not for a select few characters, prolly three, I would probably not like this story at all. I actually thought about discontinuing at 10% but I stuck through it! This was too much teenage angst, for the age group, mixed with a fairy tale romance. I kept waiting for Taylor Swift to burst out in song!

It wasn't perfect, realistic or relateable but it was good enough for me to get to the end and when it was good, it was great! I am actually curious as to who is next in the series cause it surely can't be Cannon and Elizabeth and no one else is as interesting so that's saying something o.O

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22094096-pretty-instinct

In Deep by Kella McKinnon

I am a sucker for philosophy and quotes! At the beginning of each chapter, we got little quotes that got me thinking and I will admit to going crazy with my kindle highlighter for a few. This, I believe was one of the best features of this novel.

Though this is a story line that I have read before, I would like to think that this one was different. In the end, Criss didn't change much of his POV, but his theories and train of thought would make any psychologist delirious with joy! Yes, he's got issues. I can't say I connected much with his character but I will say that I wanna know what exactly it is that he's plotting.

Regardless of the cliche themes and progression, Brie was a spark in all that familiarity as she remained realistic and brought a different angle and approach to the usual billionaire romance story line. She questioned everything and became the more relateable of the two.

Initially, I thought that this would be one of those dual POV novels, where one character repeated everything that happened in the previous chapter, but then it turned into snapshots of Cristos's past. It's not a very nice past, but it was my first time being treated to this writing style and I found that most of the mystery, intrigue and questions came with the past recollections, as nothing note worthy happened in the present. Except for a whole lot of angry sex!

Yes, it is a cliffhanger and on top of that, I find myself still trying to figure out the point, climax and overall journey this story will be taking. I thought I had it all figured out but as the novel got closer to the end, I found that I really don't know much about the past or future. I am still trying to figure out the characters, their motivations and decisions. I am totally clueless as to where this novel is going or wants us to follow.

It has a few grammatical errors but it's nothing overwhelming and I find that Brie's personality and reactions allowed you to overlook some of the faults, as you remained interested in the story as it progresses, trying to find the end or point. My biggest concern now is how the author will be able to straighten and present a complete story in one more novel, because even the basics are still murky. The conversations were few and in between and we spent most of the time in both characters heads.

This novel can easily fall in the category of billionaire romance but there is something about Brie that makes it more. She adds a difference with her firm grip on life. There is nothing sexier than a confident and secure woman in love.

Regardless of my love for Brie, there is a story here and I really want to find out what it is. Also, there is the added intrigue of that kiss that we both want so badly :)

Who knew a kiss held so much power?

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23290446-in-deep

The Arrangement by Bethany-Kris

I have read about the Russian mafia and arranged marriages before but not within the same story line. There is something to be said about characters who embrace and live in the dark. The ones who don't try to seek out the light.The fact that Vine was already acclimated to the mafia life, cut a lot of red tape and dropped us right into the meat of the matter.

Where we went from there though balanced the line between cheesy and good. There were good and boring moments but by the end, I was fully invested, especially after that cliffhanger, soap opera-esque ending.

There were a few stagnant areas that were filled with mindless, detailed sex scenes that did nothing for me or the story line and I found that I preferred their conversations and banters to the sex. They aren't your usual couple, pairing or individuals and that made for an interesting story.

The Anton we meet is barely Russian, despite being 100% born and bred Russian. There were times when I had to be reminded that he is a Russian mob boss. He came off as an American hitman, as oppose to Russian royalty, but I didn't mind. He was honest and sure in what he wanted and the Russian came out when he got angry enough or business needed to be conducted.

Vine's personality changes with the different stages of her life but one thing remains the same and that is her knowledge and acceptance of the life. She acts accordingly without being a boss herself or inserting herself into Bratva and Cosa Nostra business. She is the perfect mob wife.

Some would say that this story lacks a good dose of Russian and Italian culture but I think it was dispersed in just the right amount for an introduction. It was focused and didn't stray with mindless explanations to cover space, even when the transitions became messy, as you tried to decipher Anton's from Vine's POV.

Still, I found myself confused and unsure in the middle, as I tried to decipher the big secret and ascertain the main underlying point of the novel. The climax didn't help much in the way of excitement, as it was rather mellow, much like the rest of the novel and didn't appear until the last 20%.

Even in my confusion, I was hanging on to every page of this novel. It was straight forward, clean and balanced in it's delivery. There wasn't an excess of cheesy mafia or romantic moments. There was a lot more history than present and the future looks filled with possibilities but this installment got me grounded in the idea of Vine and Anton and believe me when I say that I am already ready to get my hands on book 2.

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/21483114-the-arrangement

Take Me for Granted by K.A. Linde

In the beginning, I had to double check that this was in fact a K.A. Linde novel. It didn't feel like her usual writing style and it takes you a while to warm up to the characters, if at all. I'm still not the biggest Vin fan. He just doesn't know when to quit!

As usual, there were a few spin to the usual college/rockstar romance drama. Thing is though, this story wasn't riddled with music as much as I expected. As popular and present music goes, there was none and all the musicians outside of Contraband, with the exception of Vin, were tools. I don't know much about the music industry but this was the most unwelcome representation.

Grant is an interesting character because his first impression leaves everything to be desired. He was cheesy, trying too hard and I didn't buy into his "playboy" persona. He was just annoying. As the novel progressed, I started to warm to his character and like him a little more. He balanced the line between fiction and reality, with his 360 upon meeting Ari, but his continued appreciation of the female anatomy. After all, he isn't blind or impotent.

Ari was a banshee from beginning to end but I love her. She took her time, stayed focus and never lost sight of who she is and wanted to be. She never backs down and made for the perfect balance to Grant's character. Her dry humour and sarcasm helped also. Even though she was on the wealthier side, she held a more relateable and realistic tone in comparison to the other characters.

We really only got Grant's background but it was so out of left field and that ending did nothing to reassure or help me understand his past anymore. I was left even more confused and unsure of why we needed a happy, anxiety filled cliffhanger o.O

Overall, I feel like this story is an easy read, that keeps you interested enough to finish. However, there is hardly any substance and playing out all the cliches of a rockstar romance can only take it so far. I wish there was more music and less groupie focus but K.A. Linde has always taken her novel from the opposite POVs and this time was no different. The friends were questionable and God bless the few people who possessed any morals.

Minus the lack of musical influences, shock value and overall point, I would read book 2 mostly to see what's next for Grant, Ari and Contraband. Maybe it will get better as it progress and I would like to be apart of that when if it does, plus I have few questions that only K.A. Linde can answer :)

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/21801311-take-me-for-granted

Brutal Precious By Sara Wolf

I'm ready to sell the rights for this novel to Disney but I guess I don't even have that right ... *_*  Oh well.

I think I was over this series by book 2 but I didn't remember, so I was excited for book 3. Isis was still crazy without explanation and made friends easily. As for Jack, I don't even know where to start with him. He was absent but present and there were times when I wondered why he was even needed in this story, except for the need to have a hero.

Every spy (yes spy),college and high school 90s drama tv show that Disney ever produced is displayed in this novel, with a splash of XXX.

Still, I liked the opening. It was a detailed summary of everyone's decisions and paths following Sophia's death, in a compact Isis playback. After that though, I scrambled to find relevance and meaning within the story line. If I didn't know, now I do. YA is not for me :(

I understand the need for Isis level of maturity, as she wouldn't instantly change by going to college, but by the end of the novel, I still missed the substance and maturity in her character.

Jack's presence wasn't felt in this novel and found that I didn't mind her with Kieran. I barely saw any of his icy demeanor that I came to love and his side of the story was rather uneventful and corny. Honestly, we could have done without his POV and story line. Believe me when I say that I was just as shocked as you were or will be to find out Jack's decision and line of work following Sophia's death.

This story was all over the place and though it had a focus, it slipped passed me completely! It was knowing without understanding. Apart from Isis and Jack, there was a slew of new characters but none memorable. I once again contribute this to the fact that this novel lacked a strong story line and the best parts were the beginning and end summaries. Literally.

I was kept interested enough though to read through most of the story in a couple hours. It remained engaging, thanks to Isis personality and all the past issues that got some light.

This could have made for a good, college based romance, especially coming off the previous novel and the directions everyone went at the beginning. It's a good enough novel but I find that it's too YA for my taste and crazy Isis got annoying eventually.

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22858364-brutal-precious

Collin By Sandi Lynn

'Collin' was an easy going story with a host of serious issues and the most fleeting and fairy tale solutions. My ongoing issue with Sandi Lynn novels, is how she always take serious issues and spend as little time on them then throw money at the problem and give us a happy ending.

Hailey, despite her faults, was treated like that crazy stalker chick from 'Forever Black' and Amelia moved from self righteous, to brave, to annoying and then right back to self righteous.

The first 30% of the story was told so fast and I just wanted to slow it down. It was nice there for a while, as I guess and spell who would steal his heart and that pizza girl freaked me out while making me die with laughter (it really does sound better abbreviated).

Anyhoo ... Collin is the fun, alcoholic of the family, even if no one wants to acknowledge it, but the boy is two shots away from being Ellery's dad. I am sure he would have liver failure if he got his heart broken again. Yes, his story isn't told to completion in this novel and I look forward to the repercussions in the upcoming novel.

Though I am glad for the diversity in using another love interest, even if breaks from the keep it all in the family thing they usually have going, Amelia takes some getting used to. I don't understand or connect with any of the characters at the end of this novel because it feels like I was being read a statement instead of partaking in a story. Maybe it's the tone, progression or modern day Saints that was portrayed, but I didn't believe or connect with the characters and their different stories. Connor, Ellery and Julia included. I even forgot about Peyton, Henry and James. They were so faded and uninteresting.

We even lost a main character in this novel and it didn't impact me the way it should have. It wasn't sad, reflective or contemplative. It just happened and we moved on. As for Amelia and her host of issues, I think it needed the same amount of time and dedication that this death warranted, in order to make an impact within the story.

You might read my review and think that I hate this novel but I didn't. I quite enjoyed it and read it in one day with little breaks. I think if you are looking for a quick, easy read with not much complexity, then this is it.

It not only gives you updates from the past but it shows everyone's future and allows you to reconnect with all the characters that we loved from this series. The focus was broader than Collin and Amelia, so though they got lost as a couple and individuals, I still had a good time keeping up with the Black's and their host of friends and acquaintances.

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/21842955-collin

For Fallon By Soraya Naomi

I have come to realize that I once again fall in the minority of people who aren't that fond of a novel, while everyone else showers it with praises.

'For Fallon' does nothing for me as a complete body of work and didn't really grab my interest until the 60% mark. It was just another Mafia romance, even though they play by a few different rules.

Fallon is one of the most annoying heroines I've ever met and I was not her biggest fan from beginning to end. I kept thinking, especially in the end, that Luca can do better and I would even trade the copywriter for the stripper any day.  For those who have read this book, it's not in regards to her final decision and more on her overall decisions. She is quite dumb for an intelligent lady and while her reactions might be a more realistic one, I still can't relate, understand or empathize with her character.

If you read my reviews, you will know that I like them bad and a little crazy. Though Luca isn't the crazy type, he has these bad undertones that makes him come to life! Which in turn made me preferred his POV, though Fallon's had their place.

The events of this novel leave much to be desired with most of the action and intrigue coming literally in the last 3%. I despise unnecessary cliffhangers but I feel like this story needed that break to transition into the next story line. I just wish this first installment had excited us a little more.

Relationships, with the exception or Luca and Fallon's, don't get much elaboration. They stay on a need to know basis and offer up no more. I still admired the friendship between Adriano and Luca and how they work as a team. That scene with Alex and subsequently, Camilla and Fallon, wasn't ruthless but it was calculated and showed them working together while using as little force and bloodshed as possible.

There was no one focus and so I am uncertain as to the point of it all. There is the Mafia element that's only highlighted when it's Luca's POV, because he has to do something with his days; then there is the Danny element that started it all and rounds out with the romance, that just happened until there was none left.

Mafia element aside, the rest would make for a good story line but we never met the catalyst for the story line, even when he was a door away; and not being the biggest supporter of their relationship from the beginning, left me hoping that 'For Luca' will see Luca with a new woman. Honestly, Fallon is not the one.

The sex is to the point and there is no domination. No games, circles or questions. Just good old sex! The story line adapted this principle occasionally and saw us cutting to the chase, sometimes without giving us strong enough character development to move forward. Apart from Luca, when he's confused, betrayed and hurt, not much stood out for me.

Don't take this to mean that I am saying this story tanked, because I am sure I will want to read book 2, but it just wasn't a memorable or impactful story. It can easily be filed away under general, with the other generic Italian Mafia romances, without much diversity. It was flat and commercial, so I am hoping for a better book 2.

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/21941909-for-fallon

Taming the Storm By Samantha Towle

Taming the storm was just that ... tame. While it's a good, flowing story, with an interesting enough cast of characters, I got use to the explosiveness that is Tru and Jake. I felt like this was a softer side to TMS and while I didn't hate it, it didn't blow me out the water either.

As usual, there is an array of song for you to discover and share. I have always turned to this series to give me unforgettable tunes that I can enjoy, long after I have finish reading the story. To this day, I still sing and listen to 'You have started' by Ou est le swimming pool.

Lyla is feisty and a little withdrawn but if you get her angry enough you see another side and let's not talk about how she shocked me when it came to sex. They both make for an an interesting couple but their story felt level with no real dynamics. At times, I think it's because it was such a shock of a prologue, that nothing else in the novel can compare.

I like the way Tom's past was highlighted and that the usual cliche was kept to a minimum. He actually felt untouchable, like a band manager/stranger, in the beginning and we got to take our time and get to know the guy behind the bass. His back story interesting, gruesome and an original one. Still, it remains a far fetched theory when reasoning out his demons. Though I understand, there is still some aspects, that are just really out of sync with his present ideologies and anonymity.

The Tom Carter of TTS is not the one we met and saw throughout this series. He is definitely a changed man and I don't know which one I like better. This Tom was hardly a challenge but his change was interesting. He was funny, intense and much more level headed than I expect.

This novel is broken into two parts; The chase and the sex. The chase was enlightening because we got to watch Tom and Lyla learn about each other and what they were bringing to the table; Everything after was laced with fear, confusion and a ton load of sex! At this point, Tom should just tape his mouth to Lyla's "Virginia" and what is up with him and being fully naked to have sex? o.O

They had some steamy sex scenes and the fact that their both animals in the bedroom helped to heighten the experience. Lyla was never one to shy away and Tom can think of nothing else but sex when Lyla is laid out before him.

The level of drama in this novel is low even though Lyla has zero filter and Tom has slept with almost every woman he has ever met in the past. Her lack of filter made this story humorous and she became the star of this novel. It also helped that this go, it was the woman who was the talent and the man the groupie.

This story had dual POVs but it is sporadic where Tom's take is concerned. I wish we had more time with Tom because a lot of  times I found myself wanting to know his thoughts. The fact that their first sex scene was taken from his POV also, made it different and left us quite entertained. It's almost like reading two different stories depending on who is narrating that chapter.

Some might call it a beautiful end to the series and while I am glad to see every one and to get an update on their lives, I still felt it was incomplete, because we technically went through that event in WTS and I wanted a unique ending focused on Lyla and Tom. The series is over and they only get one novel; It's only fair!

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17335212-taming-the-storm

The Prince's Ex By Nadene Seiters

I am not one of those people who like trilogies but some stories need more than one installment and 'The Prince's Ex' is one of them. Was it rushed? Not until we got to the end but I think that has more to do with my love for the characters and not being ready to let them go.

I will admit that I was a little apprehensive when this story began because it didn't hit the ground running. It took some time to build and I judged the book by it's title and expected fluff and pageantry. I was in for a rude awakening because it was not what I expected and became more realistic as it progressed.

Some will see Amelia (pretty name btw) as a gold digger and I would have to say she's on the line but she's also honest. She knows what she wants and seems obsessed with the moving of money that I am actually surprised she wasn't a Trader. I like that she didn't move from the Prince's ex to the commoner's wife and it was good to see her date and have different relationships before she found the one that worked for her. I also like that the man was the one with more on the line and how they navigated those issues when they arrived.

Amelia is one of those character that has to grow on you because she makes no apologies for her faults and wants and while her back story is a sad one, you'd never know. This story is narrated more like a third party account but all I could hear was Amelia's voice; despite her shortcomings and blatant need for financial stability, you want to see this story through her eyes. I will admit that at times I thought he deserved better but Amelia proved that, given the chance, she can be that better thing he needs in his life.

The dynamic duo of Tina and Amelia made this book quirky, fun and full of good times. It's a hoot whenever those two are together and their time spent in that coffee shop made for quite the comedic relief. If I could, I would rename this book 'Coffee Shop Chronicles' but I don't know how i'd tie in that cover because it is too hot to not stay!

I hate when reviews give away too much information because then a novel loses some of it's mystic so I pride myself on keeping as much a secret as is possible and because Amelia had to go through a few frogs to her real prince, i'll refrain from using a name so as to not give away who the winner of her heart was, so from here on, his name shall be "Him" :)

"Him" was everything you could ever want in a man and though I picked up on a  few of his secrets early, I will admit that some threw me for a loop. Still, he remained intelligent, sweet, understanding and quite frankly one of the best book boyfriends I've seen in a while, without having to negotiate for her life or visiting each other in a hospital or jail cell. They didn't even break up and that's gotta be worth a nod in contemporary romance these days!

They are friends first then lovers and though we spent more time with her suitors than we did with her choice, I felt like I knew him well enough and am actually appalled at myself that I too overlooked him in the beginning.

For all those sex fiends, you can forget it. There is no graphic, detailed sex scenes and no one is being slapped or tied. It's clean fun with a few sexy undertones.

If you're unable to connect with the story, that's fine but I find that most women, especially of the single variety, can relate to this novel because it's a more real account of life in the single lane with a few unrealistic elements to give the novel dynamics. On the surface, it's remains an every day story with an every day couple in a small town with too many ears, nosy yoga classes and a little coffee shop that holds all their secrets :)

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22041511-the-prince-s-ex

Hardline By Meredith Wild

I remained interested in this installment even though it was not the fight I expected. Erica has terrible luck, judgement and taste in men. If I were her I'd live in a cave. Trouble seems to lay in wait for this girl and don't get me started on her relationship that moved from comfortable to jam packed with ultimatums because Blake decided he's a "Dominant".

There was a lot more sex than usual to the point where the first 9% of this novel is 2 conversations and bondage play. While they toned down their "BDSM" sex, it boiled over into their personal life and quite frankly, Erica has lost the one quality she had that I adored and that's her independence.

Personally, I hate relationships based on ultimatums because I feel like they are stunted and will forever be filled with them. If you can't be with me because you can't rule my life, then go! This made me see Blake in a new light and asked a question that it took me three novels deep to ask; How old is Blake? Maybe I missed it somewhere in the series but at times I see a good looking nerd in his 20s and then other times I see him as a ruthless businessman in his early 30s.

As much as my perception changed, I loved that he stood his ground and though his jealously got ridiculous occasionally, I liked when he took control and made his feelings clear. The proper introduction of his family did little to add to the man that is Blake but I feel like because we go so slow to resolve every issue that arise, we don't need added elements or characters to define them.

Some people might be annoyed because this is a slow moving story but I am actually getting into the pace and don't mind going through each challenge with Blake and Erica. I have grown to love them as a couple and realize that their story is complicated and needs the appropriate amount of time to break down all the elements, without it becoming rushed, but I really wish it would stop ending like a soap opera!

We only got a glimpse of Daniel but he has already done a complete 360 in my eyes and I am beginning to accept the dark, political element that he adds; while the businessmen in this novel are a force in and out of the boardroom. It's interesting to see their conduct as they navigate the world of business.

James took a back seat and yes, I was naturally outraged because I really love James, but it's Erica and Blake's story so I digress.

It's safe to say with each installment I get more interested in the story line and invested in the characters. I am starting to relate and love the pace and situations as they unfold. I am actually eagerly awaiting the next installment and it's more to do with Blake being in control and Erica allowing him to have that control. I am once again hoping for a battle of wills so i'll keep my fingers crossed on this one.

At the end of this novel, the author graces you with a Q&A for book clubs or buddy reads I assume. While I am all for Q&A and love that she took the initiative, they are more like a Literature class assignment than they are discussion starters. Still, I love the thought and the fact that she branches out with each installment to give us a little bit more every time.

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22495537-hardline

Hardpressed By Meredith Wild

I'll admit that my interest was piqued, especially to the end, as I love a good competition and I see where the end of this novel lines us up for a potential battle of wills, despite the once again abrupt and untimely ending. She really needs to find a better way to transition through her novels.

I was a little more interested in this story line than before as the characters found themselves and their places within the business and the story. There was more background and a clearer path and priorities sheet. Though the cliches were still present, with the addition of a few more, an effort was made to resolve some leaving us with less story lines. The sex is also becoming more BDSM and I wouldn't be surprised if by the end of this series they have a playroom. I have also found another character to love and that's James.

We were introduced to James in the last novel but now we have a background and present day situations that make him the best character to coax  Erica out of her shell and make her seem more vulnerable.  Yes, she was hung up on Blake, but we saw human nature at play with her interaction and reactions to James.

I have always loved Erica's fortitude when it came to her business but I think she now needs to adapt some of it into her personal life. She spent most of the novel wallowing or conceding and it was good to see her step up to the plate in the end.

I don't think I took stock of their relationship before but there is something there waiting to be ignited. I saw a spark and I like it; They are comfortable with each other, which in turn makes you comfortable with them as a couple.

I even found myself warming to Heath, while Alli became a new character to me. It was good to get some background on Daniel, as well as, Mark and I actually had looked forward to finding out about that relationship.

We are introduced to some new characters and resolved or tempered some issues of the past and present, but this story has still not given me a memorable moment. Yes, there is the death but that hardly counts because of it's delivery and the person.

Grammatical and editing errors are few if any and I truly believe that this story flows but it still remains a little timid in it's delivery. I don't know if it's waiting on the final novel but this story needs a shake to make us stop and look. It's too comfortable right now and I just wanna add some spice and shake!

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22457201-hardpressed

Hardwired By Meredith Wild

I'm a borderline techie. I have my moments when I am completely invested in everything tech but I tend to have an eclectic taste that sees me trying different things occasionally. With that being said, I didn't mind the angle this novel took but beware that it can get heavy on the tech and if you have no interest whatsoever, you will get lost and bored.

The story line itself seems stagnant because it's constructed with such a heavy plot of ideas; I missed the climax, if there was one and the foundation and path is still developing at the end.

If you take every possible theme from a Contemporary romance novel, you would get the story line to this one. All it's missing is the paranormal element. If there is a cliche situation or character, this novel has it. From the dominant billionaire to the hiding in plain sight rapist and even the tatted up outcasts were present. If it's a contemporary story line, it's there.

While this could have worked, with a more believable cast and background, it just didn't. There was no cohesiveness to all the situations or the characters. There is sex, love, drugs, rape and that's just a few of the major issues that one character is trying to sort. They are highlighted for such a short moment, then do a full 360, that leaves us feeling like these issues are inconsequential. In the wake of all these issues, to the end, all but one is unresolved and to be honest, it's not resolved, it's just that she kinda has no choice.

There is only one character that I understand and don't mind interacting with and it's Sid, even though I doubt he has said a whole chapter worth of things yet. I got confused frequently with who she calls for which crisis and this is a testament as to how much personality her friends possess. Honestly, she could do better in that department.

Erica doesn't interest me as a character but she narrates the whole story so what you gonna do?! She's lost and doesn't know herself so it's hard for me to know her. I did however, like her stubbornness and the fact that she didn't easily fall into his bed like a twit. She had her faculties ... some of the time at least.

Blake is a character that's so mysterious that you need his POV to know what's going on. He doesn't let up! It's not a he falls in love so he spills his guts; The man is a vault and it stays that way until the very abrupt and inconclusive end.

The sex in this novel is basic but thankfully it isn't long. They do the necessary and get on to the next issue as they seem unable to run out of cliches to borrow. There is nothing interesting enough to hold and keep your attention but each element gets you interested to a point.

I would read the next installment because I want to know the answers or solutions for a few questions but it's not a necessity to dive right in.  The emotions in this book are fleeting, so I as a reader didn't know how to feel. Therefore, I didn't connect or get invested in these characters like I would have wanted. At this point, I am still trying to find some of the major defining moments.

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22452798-hardwired

Tug By K.J. Bel

Disclaimer: I'm normally more thorough in my research when I want to begin reading a new novel but for some reason I added this novel to my TBR list without checking to see if this was a new standalone or a spin off. Turns out, it's a spin off and I didn't find this out until I read and finished my draft for this review. So it's safe to say that this is my introduction to Tug, Tori and Brady. While I now know that they have a past, that was given in details, I still can't change my review because below is my true thoughts from what I read without this new knowledge.

There is a range of emotions involved in reading 'Tug', from hate to indifference and just plain 'ol frustration. There is too many crazy, unbalanced people in this story and the story line contain more drama than a script of the 'Real Housewives of Atlanta'. Yes, Tug is a douche but I never expected to leave this novel unsure of Maria and tired of the drama with the other characters.

Brady is a little too convenient for my liking, as he lives life on the line of right and wrong and seems to always come out the good guy, while Tug can't seem to get anything right and always end up losing and sacrificing the most in the end. It's all a continuous cycle with Tori in the middle and she being crazy doesn't excuse her. As for Liv and Harrison, Liv is an idiot and Harrison is a pig.

Maria threads the line of naive and eventually untrustworthy, to the point where I just decide to give up on them all. They are confused, which in turn makes you unable to build solid relationships with the characters while keeping a certain level of empathy. I especially hate the fact that I read an entire novel just to have an avoidable upset at the end that makes me question everything I spent my time reading. Also, not that I excuse his behavior but Maria is sort of a bitch with that final decision. An ungrateful one at that. Though it's not clear, it doesn't look good either.

Tug's character is possibly bi-polar but neither him nor the author knows it yet. It's either that or he's just a douche. I'll like to think it's an illness. You will hate him and eventually tolerate him but I never loved him.

I think this story keeps itself interesting occasionally, more so than not, but there is so much drama towards the end that I am pissed I even bother. I'd prefer to just read book 2 and get the updates and solutions.

I believe that all the characters in this novel are doom to be miserable and never fully able to live in the light because there is too many dark and gray areas. While I don't know anything about the US/Mexico border, I doubt it is used as frequently as they do without raising suspicion and this crew uses it like a bus route.

The sex in this novel isn't inspirational but then the focus was on the unrequited love, new love and new relationships being built. It's surely not your usual romance and there is no HEA. These friends also don't mind stepping on you to get to your man if it's convenient.

Their back story is strange, common and different all in one. There are no loving parents and while they all have mommy issues, they don't rely heavily on it. If not for their sporadic reminders of their mom and dad crimes, I'd forget that they had a Lifetime movie upbringing.

There is a certain level of confusion for me in reading this novel and it might show in my review, because even though I understand the story, had no problem with the progression and was entertained for the most part, I felt like the ending killed it all for me and made me want to go over the novel to see what the reader's hustle might be.

Even with a few glitches, it's a good read but you have to be willing to put your emotions aside to garner anything from it. I was unable to do that so I feel duped like I read all that for nothing. Honestly, I didn't see nor understand the change in the wind that lined us up for a book 2 but I guess we are trying to get as close to reality as possible and splitting novels seem to be all the rage these days.

Also, after finding out that this triangle stretched across two other books, I'd like to think that the author might have gotten a little more creative in her efforts to tee us up for a book 2.

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22594706-tug

The Laws of Kings By Jennifer Loren

With every novel there are good and bad moments and this one is no different. The problem with this one is that not all the moments are in sync with the story line or the reader. If I hadn't ever read a book by Jennifer Loren then I would probably not be so inclined to read a next but I know she normally has rocky starts but eventually finds her footing.

There are extremely corny moments of action, confrontation and love. My eyes got a work out occasionally from all the MacGyver moments that had me rolling them uncontrollable. They even got his kits -_-

There is a constant and delicate balance between too much information and not enough conviction. There are tons of unnecessary conversations and as to when they fell in love? I don't know.

Dace's team seem to be the original 'A team' as they channel everything action packed and corny from 80's action-adventure sitcoms. This story had two parts and I liked both. Dace the mercenary was just as entertaining and corny as Dace the mob prince but I mostly like Dace when he's just kicking back with Austin.

There is something about the characters of this novel that I adore, especially when they aren't trying to kill each other. Everyone has their signature traits that differentiate and assist the story line. Michael holds little to no interest for me but Sage makes me take a second look at this complicated but heartbroken man; Ettore is elusive but interesting; Antony is hilarious and just the right guy to have around for everything while Dace is the perfect leader who never wants and also never actually leads.

There are many elements to this story but unfortunately not all of them gel. While there are good and bad moments the story line isn't cohesive at times and their are a few discrepancies with the flow but I still enjoyed the overall body of work even when I knew what to expect next.

Austin and Aaron are unexpected additions but I think they bring their own contribution to this plot. One thing I am looking forward to is Leandra and Austin together as Dace recovers. While I don't know if that will be happening, I think it would make for good entertainment.

There is a lot of violence and killing in this novel to the point where it borders on corny but I love that Dace doesn't second guess his decisions and though it's too late, I could see the Colletto boys as an unstoppable force, if they could just stop trying to kill each other for a minute.

I leave this story not knowing who to trust and not knowing who will be alive by the end of the next but I am also excited for the potentials that lay ahead.

There is a certain edge and roughness to this novel that doesn't lend to the softer side of romance so you might not be able to understand or know when love came into play but I like them so much as a couple that I don't even care. It's hot when a woman can take care of herself and there is no weak women in this novel.

It's a rocky start to a series but I have faith in this story and it's ability to get it all together for the next installment, so as to give us an action packed, drama filled, intellectually executed plan that will lead to an even better book 2.

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22472427-the-laws-of-kings 

Uncontrollable By Shantel Tessier

I feel like I should be bent over at the knee panting with how long and action packed this novel was. At this rate, Sam should be dead and I really think she needs some prayer and a cleanse. Too many bad things happened in succession and if not for that little note at the beginning of this novel i'd expect her to be dead at the end.

Normally, I feel like a series can conclude at book 2 because most book 3 is an extended version of things we either read  already or not that interested in. This was conflicting for me, because while I shared the same sentiments, I also believe that this novel was necessary to clear the air. Unfortunately, it also left us with more questions and I think they might have to watch their backs for the rest of their lives because a few things still aren't clear to me.

Samantha grows with each novel and this time I find that she was fiery and in control. She's always been strong but she needed some vulnerable moments, especially with the fact that she was almost omnipresent. I needed her to relay certain emotions but she was just being Sam.

Slade got lost a little in the many events of this novel and I blame that on the fact that this novel tried to focus on literally every one. It made it harder for both main characters to shine and Slade didn't mind taking the back seat to Sam's.

I missed Sam playing Barbie with herself, as Sam is known for being the ultimate girly girl. She lost that this go but there was enough going on to keep us preoccupied because that didn't even stand out to me until I was finish reading and analyzing in my mind.

The introduction of Parker is fantastic and I love his filthy mouth and blunt reasoning. He is easy to relax with and I love how he was flawlessly worked into the story, to the point where he at times made every one take a seat to his shine. The only other character in this novel that can stand in that light is Tate.

Even though we know a little more about him now, including his real name, I am still conflicted. He is a tool just as much as Missy is an idiot and honestly, I don't think they currently make a good pair. She is one step away from suicide and he is so bad that it hurts! I don't know what I expected but this wasn't it where they are concerned.

As usual, Josh and Courtney took a back seat to the major story line as they just existed and if not for the wedding and bachelor party I would completely forget that Holly and Micah were apart of the story. There was a lot more sex talk but I like that we kept it light. There's a trait I admire from this series, where Shantel has no problem cutting to a new day in the next chapter, even if the chapter before left us at the beginning of a sex scene. You'd have to read it to get it.

It might sound weird but I see this novel as a cross between 'The Expendables' and 'The Notebook'. It had more good moments blending both aspects, than it had cheesy and unnecessary ones and yes, there was some cheesy, unnecessary moments, especially to the end.

A lot of major issues were highlighted and cleared but these books take so long between releases that I had to scramble to remember some scenes. I liked the flashbacks and break aways because they filled in the blanks and not once did I ever feel the weight of the pages of this novel and I think that's a good trait when you have a hefty read ahead.

It's long, it might get boring and all that's left is for people to jump off roofs but it closes the Slade/Samantha chapter and tees us up for Missy/Tate and Parker/Stripper? I don't know. All I know is that I enjoyed it for the most part and I can't wait to see how Shantel digs both Tate and Missy out the molds I've made for them.

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22572256-uncontrollable

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

Worth the Chance By Vi Keeland

Regardless of the fact that I began reading 'Worth the Chance' right after 'Worth the fight', I had no problem transferring from 13 year old Vinny to 25 year old Vince, because both have spunk that I like and this time there was an equal amount of POV between both main characters.

Vinny was definitely direct and fearless especially when mad and that was often. He came off as ungrateful at times in his relationship with Nico but the respect and value of both Nico and Elle's trust and relationships were present. He wasn't in a state of obligation and I even liked him as a 17 year old  because he kept the same persona and was always confident in his moves; It was definitely not the 13 year old Vinny who made shirts for Elle.

Olivia was another honest character when it came to her beliefs and I love the passion and pride she placed in her work. I liked her reactions and reservations, as well as, the fact that she thought through her actions. Their relationship is perfect for them but the level of conflict in this novel didn't match it's importance. After reading the first chapter in 'Worth Forgiving', I think that maybe that drama will be released using Jax's character, though I really wish he'd stick to banking.

Knowing what to expect this time made this novel easier to navigate and while I saw all the twist coming a mile away, this installment actually lived up to it's title because every one got a chance at something, even Elle and Nico but I'll save that tidbit for when you read :)

The sex was alright but not what I expected from Vinny based on his talk of agression and depravation in the bedroom. The boy's not bad but he's pretty basic too or maybe it's Olivia. I don't know.

It was good to be in touch with characters we were fond of from book 1, Preach included and even the Lake house made another appearance. Still, this story was so smooth that I occasionally forgot that there was an upcoming fight and secrets that date all the way back to 25 years ago. It's a mellow story with not much conflict or fight unless we get in the cage which once again amounts to only two times.

Also, the fights continue to be taken from the female's POV, as well as, so many other elements that left me feeling like we were re-enacting Elle and Nico's story but with a different set of characters. The MMA fights in this series are also sorely unfair, because if the fighter's don't have problems, they tend to end the fights in round one and even then it's tentative as to a round three.

I don't know when they fell in love but they are a comfortable couple and the fact that they knew each other from high school might have helped, especially with the fact that because they already knew each other, we didn't get the basic background on them. Olivia is suppose to have the perfect little family with no deep dark secrets but I never even hear her speak to a parent once. Where are they? o.O

Where the story line is concerned, there was plenty of potential for an angst filled, drama themed romance between the sweetest, most understanding girl and the course, brutally honest MMA fighter. As I have come to figure out with this series though, it takes the easy road so we got the mellow ride instead. It's by no means a bad story or even delivery but I just felt like so much more could have happened and been highlighted.

My problem with this series is that we never get the full disclosure or time to work out the issues until the last 5% of the novel and then we are given an epilogue that spans months or years, this time six months, only for it to abruptly end and ask us to wait for the next.

I guess until next time folks!

- https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20739590-worth-the-chance