Book Review: Collared by the Cowboy (Bad Boys #5) by Susan Arden

Genre: Steamy Romance
Publisher: Silver Sprocket Publishing
Publication Date: March 14, 2014
Links: Goodreads
Star Rating:

The following story is intended for an adult audience and contains mature themes, strong language including graphically detailed sex, violence, and drug use portrayed in a fictional setting.

The room at the end of the hall in Spurs & Leather, a private club in Paris hasn't seen any action of late. Brandon as head Dom locked the doors after his last lover burned him good. Diving into his work at Evermore Ranch, he's got his hands filled with taming wild horses until a red-leather wearing woman crosses his path. Tempted back into the saddle, he sets his sights on taming a different type of filly...one with a sassy little mouth, a mind of her own, and hot body that won't quit. He's got the goods, if she willing to let him take the lead both in and out of bed.

Last semester of grad school and all Mia needs is a stellar thesis that will skyrocket her chances of landing a therapist job somewhere far, far away from small towns and small minds. Case studies in female sexuality sure as hell aren't the ticket out of Texas and Mia sets her sights on learning all she can about why women enjoy being dominated--thank you fifty shades of I'm out of here by May! Undercover, she enters the secretive BDSM world within a club known to offer decadent delights. With one minor SNAFU: she becomes the target of the head Dom, a man with a reputation of equal parts bark and bite. When the door marked no is thrown open by one commanding cowboy, Mia can't resist temptation waiting on the other side.

Now, Mia is wearing Brandon's collar, calling him Sir, and loving every minute of being dominated by her powerful lover. Yet Mia can't have her cake and eat it too. Torn, she must decide if her future involves walking away from Brandon when her heart is telling her to stay, stay, stay.
 

This AAR was gifted to me for an honest review. Collared by a Cowboys if the fifth book in the Bad Boy Series written by Susan Arden. The book centers on Brandon, the Head Dom and part owner of the exclusive Spurs and Leather BDSM Club and Mia, a graduate student. Mia decides to conduct a case study on why some women want to be dominated. As a potential therapist, Mia is certain conducting this case study for her final research paper will serve as the basis for her graduate thesis. Her goals is to leave the small town of Paris Texas never to return. She makes an agreement with Brandon's business partner to research their BDSM club, with Brandon acting as her tour guide. 

I’m not sure how understanding why some women like BDSM will help her become a better sex therapist, but okay.

Overall Impression of the Book:

The book was a mildly entertaining read, but nothing life changing. I will say this book is one of the better AARs I’ve read in a long time, so for that, I am grateful. I did not have a desire to stop reading the book, and was genuinely curious about how the story would end. With that being said, both the story and the characters were very forgettable. The plot of the book was extremely weak and there was no sense of urgency throughout the book until the last few chapters. I literally forgot about the character after I read the book, with the exception of the twins. 

Characters:

Brandon was the average Alpha Male Cowboy. I did appreciate that he was a hard worker, running his club while also running his family’s ranch. He was also very family orientated, which is something I liked. Other than that, he was nowhere near book boyfriend status. I wish the author would have put a little more context into his relationship with Val. The whole situation with his ex sub/girlfriend just didn’t seemed earth shattering enough. She pretended to be his sub…okkaaay…so. Not to say he shouldn’t be hurt, but I’m sure cheating on him with another Dom would have been way more devastating. Furthermore, I did not understand why Val hated him so much. It just didn’t make sense to me.

Mia really irked my nerves. First of all, I could not understand why she was so determined to leave Paris, TX as if she could not be a therapist there. Now if she was offered her dream job in a different State, and had choose between her job and Brandon, I could understand her plight. That was not the case in this story. She had no “real plan” to go anywhere specific. She just wanted to leave Paris. Her ex-boyfriend Beau was probably one of the more interesting characters in the story, but I do not understand how he was such a good boyfriend, and just completely changed when he broke-up with her. He did not show any of these crazy man traits while they were in a relationship?  And why on earth would he think he could treat her so badly because she was a little freaky in bed. I could see if you had multiple partners and he thought she was easy, but again, that was not the case in this story.

All-in-all, I did not hate the book, I did not love it either. I have no desire to read the previous four books in the series. I may try a new series with this author in the future if she can deliver a stronger plot and better character development. 

This book is not a must read, but if you are bored one Saturday afternoon and want a book with some steamy love scenes, this may be the right book for you.

Lost in Starlight (Starlight Saga #1) by Sherry Soule

Genre: Young Adult Paranormal Romance Series
Publisher: Disenchanted Publishing
Publication Date: June 26, 2014
Links: 
Star Rating: 
  

High school is tough. Romance with a sexy alien—even tougher.
Star reporter Sloane Masterson knows she has one helluva story when she witnesses hottie Hayden Lancaster bending forks with his mind.

Like any good journalist, Sloane sets out to uncover the truth, even if it includes a little stalking. When the superhuman feats start to pile up and the undeniable heat rises between them, Hayden has no choice but to reveal his secret: he’s an alien hybrid.

They’re as different as night and day—she’s a curvy, purple-haired, horror junkie and he’s a smoking hot, antisocial, brainiac—yet the intense fascination between them refuses to go away. Even at Hayden’s insistence that dating each other is “off limits” and dangerous, their fiery attraction threatens to go supernova.

Now Sloane’s learning to deal with creepy government agents, über snobby extraterrestrials, and getting a crash course on the rules of interstellar dating. But Sloane must decide if their star-crossed romance is worth risking her own life....

Overall Impression of the Book: 

This book is comparable to Jennifer Armentrout's Lux Series, but lacks the same enthusiasm. While reading this book, I kept thinking of unicorns and rainbow instead of badass alien-human hybrids. Although the pace of the book was not exactly slow, nothing significant really happens in the story. You know by reading the preview that Hayden is an alien hybrid, so there was some good tension wondering when Sloan would find out the truth. Once she did, the book took a slight nose dive. The most interesting character in the book was Devin, and he was not even the primary antagonist in the book. 

What separates paranormal romance from regular romance is the world building and the action in the story. Simply put, this book lacked those attributes. The make-out sessions between Hayden and Sloan were far more descriptive, than the action scenes, which I found odd. The author is brilliantly descriptive…

“To me, the lunchroom is more than just a place to chow down on industrial-grade food. It reminds me of a prison scene, with its hostile mingling and violent chaos, like inmates at mealtime”…freaking hilarious. 

I could literally picture that lunch room scene. If the author was just as descriptive during important parts of the book, like fully fleshing out the action scenes and world building, this story could have been great. Soft mushy love stories have no business in this genre. Overall the book lacked intensity. 

Characters:

Sloan – Was a unique heroine in the beginning and as much as I wanted to love her, I just couldn’t. I know the author wanted to emphasize that she was a curvy girl, but I got sick of the fat jokes and comments. The book was laced with way too many of them, and she never really put anyone in their place.

Hayden – Was an okay hero. I liked him more in the beginning. He is just not the book boyfriend type. He needs some flaws, deep rooted issues, something that will make me feel for him. Right now, he is simply forgettable. 

Plot & Writing – To be honest I am not sure what the plot really was, beyond Sloan and Hayden trying to be together. Maybe more information about the government, or some interaction between Hayden and his parents would have strengthened the plot. I just didn’t “feel” the danger in the story until the club scene toward the end of the book. The writing was fantastic. This author has a way with words that I really enjoyed, and unlike a lot of ARCs, this book was edited wonderfully. 

The book ended on a cliffhanger that was very predictable. I applaud the author’s effort in trying to make a different kind of story, and I hope that she picks up the tempo in the sequel.

The Orginals Season 2 Trailer: Season Begins Monday October 6, 2014 at 9/8c

As much as I appreciate the summertime, I'm eagerly awaiting the 2014 Fall Television Season. On the top of my list of must-watch television shows is the Originals on CW. If you missed the first season, do yourself a favor and rent it from Amazon. Hopefully Netflix will get off its tail and get this show ASAP. The Originals is the adult version of the Vampire Diaries, but way better. 

The Season 2 Trailer looks incredible and I can't wait to see were the show goes from here. Check out the trailer below...

Free Paranormal Romance Books on Amazon: Just say no to Costly eBooks (Reading on a Budget)

The cost of e-books has skyrocketed for popular authors.  Two of my favorite paranormal authors Kresley Cole and J.R. Ward, are currently charging $10.00-$12.00 for their recent books.  I love you ladies, but those ebook prices are insane. 

If you are an avid reader like I am, you have discovered reading is a very expensive hobby.  Like any healthy addictions, and trust me reading can be addictive, you have to figure find ways to cut costs.  I recently read a free Paranormal Romance on Amazon that turned out to be a decent .  You know the saying, you get what you pay for.  What if that is not the case for free books on Amazon?  To test my theory, I will be reading 5 Free Amazon eBooks during the month of August. These book may be diamonds in the rough, aiding in the relief of my stained budget :-). 

With that being said, check out Kade’s Dark Embrace by Kym Grosso. It’s a freebie on Amazon, and sets up a really good series. If you would like more information about this book, check out my book review. 

If you are interested in reading any of the books below, or have already read these book, please leave a comment and let me know your thoughts.  Until then, happy reading my fellow geeks and geekettes!!

1.  Alpha Lust: A Wolf's Embrace by Ashley Spector
2.  Wolf's Haven (Caedmon Wolves) by Ambrielle Kirk
3.  Ethan's Mate (The Vampire Coalition Book 1) by J.S. Scott
4.  MARKED (Eternal Guardians Book 1) by Elizabeth Naughton
5.  Charming The Alpha (Werewolf Shifter Romance) by Liliana Rhodes

Book Review: The Billionaire's Ultimatum: His Absolute Need by Cerys du Lys

Genre: Adult Romance
Publisher: Cerys du Lys ~ Sweet Contemporary New Adult
Publication Date: June 22, 2012
Links: Goodreads Amazon
Star Rating:

 Falling in love wasn't part of Jessika's temporary job description. Nor, initially, was being asked by billionaire CEO Asher Landseer to become an egg donor and surrogate for his infertile wife. All Jessika wants to do is help, but is she setting herself up for heartbreak in the process?

(A Cerys du Lys contemporary BDSM erotic romance novel)

Screwing up on her first day of a one-day job is the last thing Jessika Fevrier wanted to do. Worse yet, she's managed to infuriate Asher Landseer, the young, handsome, reclusive and eccentric billionaire CEO of Landseer Enterprises. His idea of work performance punishment is unorthodox to say the least, but Jessika finds herself intrigued by this singularly unaffected man nonetheless.

She was only supposed to clean Asher's office, but before she leaves for the day he has another job he'd like to offer her. Revealing that his wife is infertile, Asher asks her to consider becoming an egg donor for his family. He's always wanted children of his own, but the fates have plotted against him, it seems.

Asher's marriage is of necessity, rough and possibly loveless, but his desire for children is genuine and real. His absoluteness and certainty in himself and his surroundings, despite everything, captivates her. Jessika finds herself charmed by this dominant, enigmatic man who seems to know everything about business and nothing about love.

Behind the scenes, there's more than the fates plotting against him. Someone has it out for Landseer Enterprises, and they're going to do everything within their power to cause Asher's downfall. Between dealing with Asher's conditions and requirements, the cruel gaze of his spiteful wife, and corporate sabotage, Jessika finds herself lost in a world completely different from the one she's used to.

Can she rediscover herself and come to terms with her impossible feelings for a man she can't have? Or in her attempts to satisfy His Absolute Need will she inadvertently become the catalyst that leads to his (and her) ruin?

Dominant, sexy, and powerful. This tantalizing story of love, lust, intrigue and suspense will bind you, entwine you, and thrill you until the very end.

This book is intended for mature audiences.

I was gifted this book for an honest book review. The Billionaire’s Ultimatum: His Absolute need was written by Cerys du Lys.

Now what can I say about this book. I give this book a three. This book could have easily been a 4 star book if the author would have stuck with a theme.

Overall Impression of the Book
 
The book centers around Asher Landseer a billionaire CEO who has been married to his wife for four years. His wife is infertile and Asher desperately wants a child. Enters Jessika, a Literary Arts College Graduate that cannot keep a job. Asher wants Jessika to become and egg donor for him and his wife. This book made absolutely no sense. The first chapter was the best part of the entire book. I almost feel cheated and wish the author would have scraped the first chapter all together because it did not flow with the rest of the book.

How the hero and heroine met was completely unrealistic, and the fact that he asked the maid to be an egg donor after knowing her for 20min was terrible. The story just did not flow and there was no character development. The highlight of the book were the steamy love scenes and indeed they were HOT HOT HOT!!

Characters

Jessika – I think that I dislike this heroine more than any other heroine I have ever read in my entire life. I know that may seem harsh but it is the truth. She was weak, bipolar, annoying and so desperate. I mean she reeked with desperation. All through the book I kept yelling for her to get a freaking grip. It’s one thing to be a passionate woman, but it is another to continually throw yourself at a married man. And the worst part was she would not leave his house. I mean who meets someone on Monday, go to their house on Tue, and NEVER leave!! It was not cute, endearing, or passionate, it was insanity. And I could not understand how she did not have at least one friend to talk some sense into her. Lastly who falls in love with a married man in 3 days…no one does. She chased and baited that married man but she constantly stated how shy and insecure she was…really. I did not sense that at all.

Asher – Well Chapter 1 Asher was interesting, but the Asher in the rest of the book was just okay. He was a nice guys and I was rooting for him to come out on top with his issues. I did feel bad that he was in a loveless marriage, but he should have been more of a man about the situation. One minute he was dominate and take charge and in the next minute he was sappy and pathetic. He was also very naïve to what was happening around him which was a complete turn off.

Lastly Jeremy – I actually liked this character but he and Jessika became friends way too quickly. He met her once and told her all of Asher’s business. What friend does that? Not cool...

All in all I applaud the author on what she tried to accomplish here. The book was intriguing enough for me to continue to read it but some of the actions in this book was a little cliché for my taste. If you are looking for a book with hot love scenes, a good plot, and less than stellar charters this is for you.

Luca's Magic Embrace (Immortals in New Orleans #2) by Kym Grosso

Genre: Adult Paranormal Romance
Publisher: Kindle Direct Publishing
Publication Date: October 17, 2012
Links: Goodreads  Amazon
Star Rating:

An erotic paranormal romance…

Sexy vampire, Luca Macquarie doesn’t do love; especially not with humans. Yet, ever since he rescued Samantha Irving, he can’t deny the enigmatic attraction he’s developed for the alluring mortal woman. Concerned for her safety, he’s determined to bring Samantha back to her coven. His mission is to go find the novice witch and bring her home, nothing more, nothing less; falling for her is not supposed to be part of the plan.

Samantha doesn’t want to be a witch, yet that’s exactly what she is. After failing to elicit her magic, she escapes to the mountains in an attempt to resume a semblance of her previous human life. When an arsonist torches her cabin, Samantha’s worst fears are realized. Aware that her life is on the line, she reluctantly agrees to return to New Orleans with Luca.

In the Big Easy, Samantha and Luca embark on a spellbinding journey, searching for a mystical amulet that promises to release her obligation from an ancient, lethal vampire who’s been threatening her life. With cryptic clues and clandestine allies, will Luca and Samantha destroy the dangerous amulet before others acquire it, setting forth a chain of catastrophic consequences? And will Luca give into his erotic desire for the witch who magically captures heart?

Sometimes when you find a series you just have to hang in there. I did not give up on this series, and I’m so glad I kept going. Luca Luca Luca…was absolutely delicious in “Luca’s Magic Embrace” the second book in the Immortals of New Orleans Series. This book was simply a pleasure to read. I was unimpressed by "Kade’s Dark Embrace" which was the first book in this series, and if the book had not ended on such an intense cliffhanger, I would have missed the opportunity of reading Luca’s story.
Over Impression of the Book

I thoroughly enjoyed this read. Kym Grosso’s writing has improved greatly since her last book, her writing style was completely different this time around. She must have found a better editor. This book had it all, action, romance, and mystery, which seems to be the trend for this series. I loved the storyline that focused greatly on Samantha coming to terms with becoming a witch. That made the story so much fun to read. I also loved the first few chapters that focused on Kade helping Luca heal. It was soooo emotional and I loved it. I felt way more connected with the character this time. What did bothered me was the lack of Kade’s presence in the rest of the book. Luca had some series drama going on that not only affected him and Samantha, but the vampire race as a whole. I would have thought the leader of the vampires would be a lot more involved in getting the issue resolved. Maybe Kade had complete confidence in Luca, but it frustrated me, especially since Luca was so instrumental in helping Kade and Sydney in the last book. 

Characters

Luca - Luca is my new book boyfriend. He changed so much in the course of one book. He loathed humans in Kade’s Dark Embrace. In this book he is so loving, intense, and dominant. I loved the light BDSM scenes with he and Samantha, so freaking HOT. His strength was unparalleled. Everything but the kitchen sink was thrown at this vampire during this book, and he continued to overcome all adversity geared toward him and Samantha. He was a true protector, and I understand why Samantha trusted him so much. He definitely needs to be the leader of his own territory, he is surely capable. I must admit that after I read this book, I said Kade who. I also love the scenes he shared with Tristan. I can’t wait to read about that sexy Alpha wolf.

Samantha - FINALLY!! A heroine I can get behind. I really loved Samantha, and it has been a long time sense I’ve truly loved a heroine. Vulnerable, yet strong, she had to overcome a lot. Unlike Sydney, she was loyal to Luca from day one, and was open to explore her feelings for him. She has a big heart, and the potential to be a very powerful witch. This book was not just about Luca saving her, she also saved him. She was smart, funny, tough, and feminine.
Plot - The overall plot of the book was just okay. The plot in the first book was far better yet, this book surpasses its predecessor, hands down. This book was packed with action and mystery, which is something I expect from a Kym Grosso novel. The story moved along fluidly, with little to no dead spaces, there was a lot of story to tell. The sudden switch in POV is new to me, but was still easy to follow. The writing was so much better in this book, and I look forward to reading about Tristan’s story next. I love the wolves!!

Kade's Dark Embrace (Immortals in New Orleans #1) by Kym Grosso

Genre: Adult Paranormal Romance Series
Publisher: Kindle Direct Publishing
Publication Date: March 5, 2012
Links:  Goodreads   Amazon
Star Rating: 
 

After a series of girls are ritualistically murdered on the cold streets of Philadelphia, seasoned detective, Sydney Willows, is forced to work with sexy, alpha vampire, Kade Issacson. While working the case, Sydney finds herself inexplicably drawn to Kade, fighting the passion she feels towards him.

Kade, determined to solve the case and mete out justice, is captivated by the independent, fiery detective. As he attempts to protect her from a very real murderer, Kade grows concerned that the beautiful, but very human detective, could easily end up dead should she tangle with supernatural forces that are beyond her control.

The investigation leads them into a dark and dangerous world, deep in the heart of New Orleans, where together, they search for the perpetrators of the Voodoo killings. Sydney soon becomes the target of the killer and ends up fighting for her life and love in the Big Easy. Will she eventually give into the intoxicating desire she feels for Kade if she makes it out alive?

Kade's Dark Embrace is the first installment in the Immortals of New Orleans Series.  The book centers on tough as nails Detective Sydney Willows and New Orleans Vampire Leader Kade Issacom.  These two are like oil and vinegar from the very beginning.  I give this book three stars. This book was a pleasant surprise, it showed up in a suggested read email from Amazon.  I can’t pass up a free book about vampires and werewolves…lol.  Although I loved the plot, the writing was horrible and almost ruined the book for me. 

Overall Impression of the Book

This book is True Blood with a sprinkled of Twilight (but way more fierce).  Yes I said True blood because I have not read the Sookie Stackhouse Novels.   Although this book puts me in the mindset of True Blood, it was a unique story.  This was a decent book, and I do not feel like I wasted my Saturday afternoon reading it. I may have felt differently if I paid for this book. I think it was smart of the author to offer this book for free, it was just not good enough to pay for. In this book the Supernatural Beings (Vampires, Werewolves, and Witches) are known to the public, but not treated like second class citizens like they are in True Blood, which is a plus. I like the fact the different supernatural factions are not at war with one another, but are allies. Kade's best friends is a werewolf, how often do you see that!! Not to mention Kade’s BFF Tristen, the Alpha Wolf, is HOT HOT HOT. The story starts with a string of murders happening in Philadelphia. Sydney and Kade must work together to solve the case. Kade is happy to spend more time with the human detective, but Sydney wants to get always from the vampire as soon as she can. There is sexual tension between the two from the very beginning, but it was a nice build up to the action :-). This book was only about 250 pages, but there was a lot of story within those pages.

Characters

Sydney - I liked Sydney but I did not love her. I respected the fact she was not some whinny damsel in distress and she kicked ass and took name. The fact that she made so many mindless mistakes putting herself in harms way numerous times irritated me. 

Kade - Was an okay hero. I didn't like the fact he let Sydney boss him around in the beginning. Not what I expect from a 200yr old vampire. Where the hell his backbone was for first 50% of the book, I could not tell you. He became a little more dominate toward the end of the book, which is how I like my vampires…dominate and in control.

Plot - The plot saved the book, it was interesting and kept my attention. It ended on a cliffhanger and I purchased the next book…yes I spent money this time. I have my fingers crossed that the sequel to this series is worth the $3.99 I paid for it. There a lot going on in the story, the mysterious murders of young girls, an unknown enemy, and a brooding romance. The author did some decent, but not great world building that gave me a good sense of the main and sub-characters. 

Writing - The writing was a hot mess, and nearly ruined the book. It was amateurish, cheesy, and I felt myself cringe on more than one occasion. At times it felt as though I was reading a cheesy drugstore novel, not a kick ass paranormal romance. All in all, this book was not a waste of my time and energy.

This Man (This Man Trilogy #1) by Jodi Ellen Malpas

 
Genre: Steamy Romance
Publisher:  Forever
Publication Date:  June 18, 2013
Links:  Goodreads  Amazon
Star Rating:  

Young interior designer Ava O’Shea has an appointment for a first consultation at The Manor with the owner, Mr Jesse Ward. She is expecting nothing more than an overweight, cravat wearing, well-to-do countryman, and on arrival, nothing would suggest otherwise. How wrong could she be? This Man is devastatingly handsome, charming and confident. He is also a conceited, hedonistic playboy, who knows no boundaries. Ava desperately does not want to be attracted to him, but she can’t control the overwhelming affect he has on her. Every instinct is telling her to run, so she does, but Jesse Ward is not so willing to let her go. He wants her and is determined to have her. She knows she is heading for heartbreak, but how can she run when he won’t let her?

This book is the first in the “This Man” trilogy centering on Jesse Ward a business and Ava O’Shea a talented interior designer. Ava is hired by Jesse to fix up his hotel, and the chemistry between to two is instantaneous. Ava is very apprehensive of Jesse, and with good reason. Jesse is like an 18 wheeler that plows into her life and runs over any obstacle that stands in his way, including her. I am not a fan of Mr. Jesse Ward.

Overall Impression of the Book

I can't quite put my finger on how I feel about this book. I read this books because of the positive reviews and I’m a sucker for an Alpha male. The reviews put Jesse on par with Christian Grey, and since I am such a Christian Grey fan, I had to read it. Well... Mr. Jesse Ward makes Christian look like a regular everyday guy. I love the chase between the hero and heroine, but Jesse took it to another level. Usually I laugh at reviewers that say the hero went too far, or the heroine was bullied into submission. Well count me among those reviewers because that is exactly what happened in this book. I did not connect with Jesse for most of the book and disliked his character greatly.

He was extremely unreasonable when it came to Ava’s personal life, but kept Ava in the dark about his personal life, which irritated the hell out of me. These characters where a train wreck, I just watched the disaster unfold while shaking my head. I can't say that I loved this book, but I can’t say I hate it either. Maybe it’s both. This book and I have a love/hate relationship. Lastly, this book had way too may sex scenes. I was looking for some character development and real dialogue, but all I got was tons of sex. That created very little depth of the characters. I would have liked less sex and more character development.

Characters

Ava - I'm not impressed with Ava as a heroine, but she was not completely annoying. I actually started to like her more about 75% into the book. I did like how she challenged Jesse at times, but those challenges did not really yield a change in his absurd behavior or information he was keeping from her. So her challenges seemed futile. She couldn’t even get the man to tell her his age, REALLY!! Jesses is not the sharing type and she did not have any control over their situation. I did love her in the last night club scene, now that was funny, and her friendship with Kate is adorable. I appreciate she is desperately trying to hold on the independence while Jesse is trying to forcibly snatch it from her.

Jesse - Is an insecure psychopath, and very unattractive. I did not like his pursuit of Ava in the beginning. It was over the top and demeaning. I am in no way a prude, and I love my Alpha males, but 20 missed phone calls, harassing her at work, stalking her, and making scenes at her house on numerous occasions is not endearing or romantic. I disliked Jesse until about 50% into the book. From 50%-75% of the book I liked Jesse a little more, and then it happened. The real Jesse showed up the last 25% of the book and he was an absolute mess, and I loved him for it. He was out of control and jacked up, but it was a realness in his character that was not present for most of the book. Now that is the Jesses I can get behind.

Needless to say, this train-wreck of a book was intriguing enough for me to read the sequel. I am not sure if I will finish the trilogy, it depends on the sequel and if the author decides to give me more than awesome sex scenes and a psychopathic hero.

Book Review: Claimed (Dark Protectors #2) by Rebecca Zanetti - A Must Read

Genre: Young Adult Paranormal Romance Series
Publisher: Entangled: Teen (August 27, 2013)
Publication Date: August 27, 2013
Links:  Amazon Goodreads
Star Rating:

A Daring Rescue Emma Paulsen is a geneticist driven by science. But she's also a psychic, so when a dark, good-hearted vampire frees her from the clutches of the evil Kurjans, she realizes he must be the man who's been haunting her dreams. But with a virus threatening vampires' mates, Emma may discover a whole new meaning of "lovesick".

A Deadly Decision As King of the Realm, Dage Kayrs has learned to practice diplomacy. Still, it's taken three hundred years to find his mate, so he'll stop at nothing to protect her—even if it means turning his back on his own kind...

Overall Impression of the Book

Claimed is the second book in the Dark Protector series. Claimed focuses on Emma Paulsen and Dage Kayrs. I LOVE ME SOME DAGE!! Emma was an okay heroine but she worked my nerves at time. This group of males are primitive alpha males and you get a sense of the era they are from. They protect their mates, or potential mates at all costs. Again I love the world that Zanetti has created. Again I am more interested about the world building then the characters at times. I firmly believe this series should be read in order so the reader can get a better since of the world and the characters. The love connections are pretty fast but hey…it is a romance novel. If you love Immortals After Dark or the Black Dagger Brotherhood series, these book are for you. One thing that is different about this series is that there are significant time jumps between the books. I am sure the purpose of the time jumps are to have the final

Characters

Emma – is a very headstrong heroine. I like how she made Dage work for her affection, but she was a little over the top and unreasonable at times and that really irritated me. She is a feminist, and the whole mating and marking thing drives Emma crazy. I have to disagree; I would love to be marked by Dage Kayrs…lol. Emma and her sister Cara are like night and day but so are Dage and Talen for that matter.

Dage – Is the King of the Realm. He has the weight of th world on his sholder. Unlike his brother Talen, Dage has known who his mate would be for over a 100 years. Both Dage and Emma dramt about on another, but had know idea they either one actually existed. Dage is a little more refined

Plot & Writing: Love the plot of these books. So the Kayrs brother are basically the royal family, but they act more like soldiers then royalty. They have a enemy called the Kurjans. These two factions have been at peace for hundreds of years until both factions find out about Janie, who is a little girl with special abilities. Cara also has special abilities and these qualities are needed in the mate of both the vampires and the Kurjans. So the war is between these two factions is back on, and all the other factions in the realm (witches, shifters, deamons, werewolves) will have to pick a side. The world that Zanetti has built is both fresh (for a paranormal romance) and interesting.

This series is a must read!!

Book Review: Mi Carino - Risky Love (Mi Carino # 1) by Sienna Mynx

Genre: Adult Romance Series
Publisher: Divas Pen LLC
Publication Date: Febuary 12, 2012
Links: Amazon Goodreads
Star Rating:
 

There is no end.
There is no beginning.
There is only passion and all those sinful naughty feelings caught in between.

He's not the man she thinks he is. However, Marcella Garcia is willing to take a chance. Why? Her new lover desires take her on a passionate and sexual awakening beyond her dreams. Marcella initially convinces herself that sex with no strings is enough. It's a gamble. When her desires bloom to love the risk becomes a costly mistake. 

Warning: Explicit Sex, Language, and Graphic Violence

My Overall Impression of the Book:

I bought this book on a whim. I was interested in reading an interracial romance and this book had good reviews so I decided to give it chance. The book had a decent plot, interesting characters, and a different type of love story, but it was unremarkable. I didn't hate this book, but I didn't love it either. Of course the story ended on a cliffhanger, but I am in no hurry to read the second book in the series. I rarely get a Saturday afternoon that I can dedicate to reading a book and I regret choosing making this book. I feel cheated in a sense. Diego has an interesting back story and he and Marissa had some from steamy love scenes that would make you blush, this book was average at best. The story centers on Marcella, a beautiful and talented antique seller who is getting over a broken heart from her former boyfriend. She meets arrogant, powerful, bad boy Diego Andres and sparks fly.

Characters:

Marcella – I actually liked Marcella but I did not love her. I did love how she stood up to Diego especially during their first real encounter. A man like Diego is use to getting his way and Marcella put him in his place quite a few times, I love that in a heroine. I actually sympathized with her character. When it came to love, she always seemed to get the short end of the stick, but I just could not connect with her. I understood her emotions but I did not feel them, the writing was too surface. I don’t understand how she did not see that the relationship she had with Diego was completely unhealthy.

Diego – The jury is still out on Diego. I am sure most women who read this book will dislike him, he was a complete jerk, but he could also be sweet and attentive. This couple did not know how to handle the amount of passion they ignited in one another. Diego had some serious emotional issues and did not know how to process emotion in a healthy way. He gave Marcella so much pain and despair the story and did not show any redeeming qualities until the very end, which was not nearly enough.

I am not sure if this story is capable of a HEA, it’s a little disturbing. These two finding their way back to each may be the death of both of them.

Game of Thrones Season 4 Trailer: Season Premiers April 6, 2014

The wait is almost over.  Games of Thrones returns for its 4th Season Sunday April 6, 2014.  Here is a lengthy trailer of the upcoming season that HBO has graciously bestowed upon us.  Be sure to log-in to Ms. Undercover Geek for weekly reviews of the episodes. 

Vikings Season 2: It's Back...

Book Review: A Beautiful Mess By T.K. Leigh

Genre: Steamy Romance
Publisher:  Tracy Kellam

Publication Date: August 27, 2013

Links:  Amazon   Goodreads
Star Rating:

What happens when you lose everyone that promised they would always be there for you? How can you protect the few pieces of your shattered heart that remain?

Olivia Adler is a woman with a troubled past. After losing her parents at the young age of six and being raised by an uncle who she lost years later, she refuses to get attached to anyone, including friends. For the past decade, she has been able to remain unattached to any man, too worried about losing someone to get too close. Until Alexander Burnham walks into her life one night and changes everything. But he has issues of his own. And he’s keeping a secret that could turn Olivia's world upside-down. Will Olivia let Alexander in enough for him to get close and protect her from a force threatening her very existence, or will she push him away, scared of letting Alexander in, in order to protect her heart?

A Beautiful Mess is the first installment of a three part series sure to captivate the heart with a story of secrets, courage, and love.

My Overall Impression of the Book

I was gifted this book for an honest review. I give A Beautiful Mess 3 ½ stars. This book had the potential to be a 4-4 ½ star book if the plot was better. The book centered around Olivia Adler a woman with a trouble past. She losses her parents at the age of six and has major attachments issues, not just with men, but her friend as well. I actually liked Olivia’s character most of the time but she was a coward at times which really irritated me. The hero in this book is Alexander Burnham or Mr. Burnham in the bedroom :-). I loved Alex to pieces. The book was well written and it flowed. I liked how the book showed both Alex’s and Olivia POV. The love scenes in this book were incredible. So I liked the characters and the writing so what happened? The plot it what happened.

The book started out strong I was intrigued. But the plot went on and on and on. I mean the plot did not need to drag out to the end of book with NO RESOLUTION. Don’t get me wrong…I love a good cliffhanger. But this was not a good way to end the book. 

Characters 

Olivia – I get it…her parents died when she was six years old and she has some issues, but nothing else happened in her life for her to be this messed up? I mean she is a little over the top. Her parents died like 20yrs ago. I’m not saying she should not still be hurt, but I can’t believe she has not made any progress with her issues since she was six?

Alex – His secrets were silly and unnecessary. The secrets he kept from Olivia were unrealistic because of the field he works in. He could not possibly think that keeping the truth from her would keep her safe. How is she supposed to protect herself? And the letter!! I’m not going to go into the letter because I am writing a spoiler free review, but he really has the wrong priorities when it comes to Olivia.

Lastly, I do not think that it is realistic for Alex to be put in the compromising position he was put in as a child. No way.

With that being said I will be reading the next book. I just hope the plot is stronger in the next book.

Book Review: Undeniable By Madeline Sheehan (Undeniable #1)

Genre: Steamy Romance  
Publisher:  Madeline Sheehan

Publication Date: December 31, 2013

Links:  Amazon   Goodreads
 Star Rating:

Warning: This is not a "typical love story". This is an all-consuming, soul-crushing, tear-your-heart-into-pieces story. It’s intense, gritty and raw, dark and disturbing, and it doesn’t happen overnight. This is an epic love story that knows no boundaries and has no time limits. It grows and develops—with hurt, sacrifice, and heartache—over the span of a lifetime.

Eva Fox is the princess of the Silver Demons Motorcycle Club. Growing up with bikers in the club lifestyle is all that she knows. When she’s a young girl, Eva meets the reason for her existence. Deuce West is the sexy, biker bad-ass of the Hell’s Horsemen Motorcycle Club. Like Eva, he was born and raised in the club—but that’s where the similarities end. Their first meeting is innocent, but as Eva matures into a woman, their chance reunions evolve into a fit of lust and love. Fate continues to bring them together time and time again, but their twisted journey is filled with pain, betrayal, and bloodshed that could tear them apart. Eva sees in Deuce what he cannot see in himself—a man worthy of love—and Eva spends her lifetime proving to him that her undeniable love is the one thing he can’t live without.

This is Eva and Deuce’s story.

It wasn’t easy.
Nothing worth doing ever is.
And love is worth everything.

 
My Overall Impression of the Book:

What can I say about Undeniable.  Well first of all I think my sense of the book was a little off because of the mood I was in when I started reading it.  I feel the book would have been a lot better if my emotions were not out of whack.  With that being said the disclaimer given was correct.  This is a tear your heart out earth shattering love story. There are no butterflies or rainbows in this story, but I love the authenticity of the story.  I mean this is real life. People cheat, people get used, people get disrespected, and people get their heart broken. This story is raw and gritty and not for the faint of heart. 

Characters:

Deuce – Is a jerk.  No ifs ands or buts about it.  He is the leader of the Hell’s Horsemen Motorcycle Club and he first meets Eva when she is five years old.  They meet again and again until she is an adult and then things get really interesting.  I disagree with most of his actions and I warn you again that some people will be offended by this story, but things like this happen in real life.

Eva – I don’t know how I feel about her.  She made me angry on quite a few occasions but, I feel like she continues to get the short end of the stick.  She is the princess of the Silver Demons Motorcycle Club and her father Preacher is the King. Preacher loves his daughter but I disagree with the way he raised her, but hindsight is 20/20 and all a parent can do is raise his/her child to the best of their ability.

Kudos to the author Madeline Sheehan for being unafraid to tell a raw heart-wrenching love story.  I applaud her courage to tell is like it is.