[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of The Perfect Match

An eternal optimist, Pat White has been spinning stories in her head ever since she was a little kid -- stories of romance, intrigue and adventure. A former figure skater, jazz pianist and journalist, Pat discovered her passion for writing fiction and screenplays and never looked back. Her book, Ring Around My Heart, was named Best Contemporary Romance by RT Bookclub Magazine, and Pat's script, Escape, won the Page International Screenwriting Competition.

When she's not at her computer, you'll find her hiding out in a movie theatre, hiking in the Cascade Mountains, or training her feisty Golden Retriever, Fiona.

Keep up with Pat at her Website, on Facebook, on Twitter, and on GoodReads.

The Perfect Match

RINGSIDE ROMANCE Book #0.5

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The Perfect Match, by award-winning author Pat White, is a light-hearted novella that kicks off the Ringside Romance series.

A ballerina in a wrestling ring?

After an injury ruins her ballet career, financially desperate Julianna Wright takes a job in a pro-wrestling show as the Dynamic Dancing Delila, aka Triple D. She’s been managed for years, and will do anything to find her independence and support herself, darn it, even if it means dancing for rabid wrestling fans and being named after a bra size.

Hunky pro-wrestler Marco the Magnificent is stunned when he sees his childhood crush performing center ring. It’s no place for a lady, well, not a fragile and lovely lady like Julianna at any rate. Marco wants nothing more than to protect her from the brutalities of the business, but, as they say, the road to hell is paved with good intentions, and his attempts to talk her out of her career choice simply fuel her fire to succeed.

Julianna’s need for a job, and Marco’s desire to protect her, force them into a partnership both inside and outside of the ring, a partnership that sparks feelings neither of them expects. Pinned under the weight of their explosive chemistry, they’re forced to realize that they truly are… The Perfect Match.

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Chelle:
*Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review

The Perfect Match was a super fun romantic comedy novella with a beautifully engaging voice and quick pace.

Julianna dreamt of nothing more than being a prima ballerina. Unfortunately, a hip injury squashed her plans for the future. Once a dancer, however, you never really get it out of your soul, and working odd jobs to try and pay the bills just wasn't doing it for her. As odd as it seemed getting a job dancing in the pro-wrestling circuit, she was willing to do just about anything to make it on her own.

Marco the Magnificent was known by pro-wrestling fans far and wide as a playboy. It was kind of his schtick. He was one of the 2 top wrestlers for WHAK, but despite his professional identity, he was still a nice guy. When he heard that his high school crush was in need of a job, he used his connections - both familial and professional - to help Julianna out. Little did he know she'd actually end up IN the ring or that he'd be utterly and completely smitten.

When the two are teamed up in the ring they both need to learn to trust and accept, compromise and adapt. It's a fun journey to see them grow together.

Even if you're not a pro-wresting fan I think you'll enjoy this fun read and I highly recommend it for contemporary romance and light-hearted romance fans!

The Perfect Match

[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of Archangel's Shadows

From the author Nalini Singh: I've been writing as long as I can remember and all of my stories always held a thread of romance (even when I was writing about a prince who could shoot lasers out of his eyes). I love creating unique characters, love giving them happy endings and I even love the voices in my head. There's no other job I would rather be doing. In September 2002, when I got the call that Silhouette Desire wanted to buy my first book, Desert Warrior, it was a dream come true. I hope to continue living the dream until I keel over of old age on my keyboard.

I was born in Fiji and raised in New Zealand. I also spent three years living and working in Japan, during which time I took the chance to travel around Asia. I’m back in New Zealand now, but I’m always plotting new trips. If you’d like to see some of my travel snapshots, have a look at the Travel Diary page (updated every month).

So far, I've worked as a lawyer, a librarian, a candy factory general hand, a bank temp and an English teacher and not necessarily in that order. Some might call that inconsistency but I call it grist for the writer's mill.
Keep up with Nalini online at her Website, on Facebook, on Twitter, and on GoodReads.

Archangel's Shadows

GUILD HUNTER Book #7

RELEASE DATE 10/28/14!

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Return to New York Times bestselling author Nalini Singh’s sensual and painfully beautiful Guild Hunter world in her new novel of sacrifice, loyalty, and the choices of love that can shatter the heart.

In the wake of a brutal war, the archangel Raphael and his hunter consort, Elena, are dealing with the treacherously shifting tides of archangelic politics and the people of a battered but not broken city. The last thing their city needs is more death, especially a death that bears the eerie signature of an insane enemy archangel who cannot— should not—be walking the streets.

This hunt must be undertaken with stealth and without alerting their people. It must be handled by those who can become shadows themselves…

Ash is a gifted tracker and a woman cursed with the ability to sense the secrets of anyone she touches. But there’s one man she knows all too well without a single instant of skin contact: Janvier, the dangerously sexy Cajun vampire who has fascinated and infuriated her for years. Now, as they track down a merciless killer, their cat-and-mouse game of flirtation and provocation has turned into a profound one of the heart. And this time, it is Ash’s secret, dark and terrible, that threatens to destroy them both.

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Reckless Reaper - Shawnie:

*Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review
When I was tapped to read and review Archangel's Shadows I was really excited. Ashwini and Janvier are two characters I have been waiting for. Their story is one of those things that proves that love is very mysterious. You may hate the one you are to love, at some point in the beginning, but there is a thin line between love and hate. 

Starting this book I was excited, five percent into it I was nervous. Ashwini made me nervous with her regret and wants. I truly thought she was going to do something drastic, like leave the Cajun who gave her his heart, years before. Singh has this gift and I say it every time I write a review for one of her books. She can weave emotion so well that you feel like you are experiencing it. The emotion is so strong, your mind doesn't comprehend that you aren't really going through what you are reading.

I did not know what to, expect when I started this book, but I know it isn't what I read. This book was painted in horror and then buffered with untainted love and sometimes feral curiosity from all different sides.

Singh didn't just give us Ashwini and Javier, no, she gave us all our favorite characters and with special spotlight on Naasir. It almost felt like she wrote Archangel's Shadows as an undertone to get us ready for the next full Guide Hunter book. The little side views of The Seven, the interactions at Guild Academy. It was a build up, in my opinion meant to wet our appetites, as well as tell a story that needed telling.

Ashwini and Janvier are a match like no other, they compliment each other. There is no BS or games (aside from the ones they're willing play with one another.) They are equals in every sense and you can see and feel the mutual respect and love they share. It was a beautiful thing to read about and in a way "watch" grow. It was honestly like they shared the same heart, they felt what the other felt just by speaking or looking. It is an intense thing to read about, more so to experience it as Singh has a way of doing.

The evil that is written was gut wrenching and heartbreaking. Anger and sadness mix and you can't tell when one ends and the other begins. The whole of it was so wrong, you didn't even understand the why, until it was explained and then you only understood that people are evil. It cannot be helped. New York is picking up the pieces, but some want to are it fall still. The battle may have been won but the war is still on the horizon.

The bits and pieces we see of Naasir are both eye opening and funny. They are also some times very child-like and wonder-struck. The feral and natural way of him was something amazing to read about. The unguarded nakedness he showed when with people he called his. He is a vampire, no a man who will bask in the sun, face to the sky with no problems and equally kill or eat (whatever fits his tastes) with the same ease. You get the sense that he is uncomplicated. He either likes you, doesn't like you or is withholding judgement. I found myself draw to the enigma that is Naasir. Everyone has a book boyfriend and he is mine.

Archangel's Shadows is an emotional packed, action laced, thought provoking book. It examines all spectrums of love and the compacity for it. It showcases the evil that lives in the world. It gives you hope, in a world possibly going to hell. I loved every word, sentence, paragraph and page.

Five skulls and a must read stamp of approval.

Archangel's Shadows

[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of Broken Soul

Faith Hunter, fantasy writer, was born in Louisiana and raised all over the south. The Skinwalker series, featuring Jane Yellowrock is taking off like a rocket withSkinwalker, Blood Cross, Mercy Blade, Raven Cursed, Death’s Rival, Blood Trade, and Black Arts. Her Rogue Mage novels, a dark, urban fantasy series—Bloodring, Seraphs, and Host—feature Thorn St. Croix, a stone mage in a post-apocalyptic, alternate reality, urban fantasy world. These novels are the basis for the role playing game, Rogue Mage.

Under the pen name Gwen Hunter, she writes action-adventure, mysteries, and thrillers. As Faith and Gwen, she has 20+ books in print in 28 countries.

Hunter fell in love with reading in fifth grade, and best loved SiFi, fantasy, and gothic. She decided to become a writer in high school, when a teacher told her she had talent. Now, she writes full-time and works full-time in a hospital lab, (for the benefits) tries to keep house, and is a workaholic with a passion for travel, jewelry making, white-water kayaking, and writing. She and her husband love to RV, traveling with their dogs to whitewater rivers all over the Southeast.
Keep up with Faith online at her Website, on Facebook, on Twitter, and on GoodReads.

Broken Soul

JANE YELLOWROCK Book #8

RELEASE DATE 10/7/14!

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Jane Yellowrock is a vampire killer for hire—but other creatures of the night still need to watch their backs....

When the Master of the city of New Orleans asks Jane to improve security for a future visit from a delegation of European vampires, she names an exorbitant price—and Leo is willing to pay. That’s because the European vamps want Leo’s territory, and he knows that he needs Jane to prevent a total bloodbath. Leo, however, doesn’t mention how this new job will change Jane’s life or the danger it will bring her and her team.

Jane has more to worry about than some greedy vampires. There’s a vicious creature stalking the streets of New Orleans, and its agenda seems to be ripping Leo and her to pieces. Now Jane just has to figure out how to kill something she can’t even see….

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Alluring Angel - Kathy:
*Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review
If Mount Rushmore was the carved faces of the top Urban Fantasy writers, Faith Hunter’s likeness would be front and center. Her latest offering in the Jane Yellowrock series, Broken Soul, is without a doubt one of the best books that I’ve read this year. 

Broken Soul finds Jane dealing with final security preparations for the European delegation’s unwanted visit to Leo’s territory. And if there is one thing that Jane knows, it is that when it involves vampires, nothing can be left to chance. Vampire politics are always brutal and bloody. And on top of the everything, something is stalking Jane. Something that is supposedly just a myth.

Broken Soul, as with all the previous books in this series, reveals a little more about Jane’s and Beast’s past. Faith Hunter is a master at moving a story line along. Each book lays down a layer upon which the next book is built. Broken Soul is dark, intense, and everything that I personally find compelling in a top notch read.

Jane Yellowrock is a heroine who realizes that while she might not have all the answers, she will do whatever is necessary to protect those around her.

Broken Soul

[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of Bring Me A Dream

Erin Kellison: stories have always been a central part of Erin's life. She attempted her first book in the 6th grade, a dark fantasy adventure, and still has those early hand-written chapters. She graduated summa cum laude with a degree in English Language and Literature, and went on for a masters in Cultural Anthropology, focusing on oral storytelling. When she had children, nothing scared her anymore, so her focus shifted to writing fiction. She lives in Arizona with her two beloved daughters and husband, and she will have a dog (breed undetermined) when her youngest turns five.

You can keep up with Erin online at her Website, on Facebook, on Twitter, and on GoodReads.

Bring Me A Dream

REVELER Book #5

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The madman and the nightmare…

Vincent Blackman is a little…unhinged. He recently fought a nightmare from the world Darkside and won. Now he fears nothing and wants revenge on the man who had his father brutally murdered. And how convenient to find an ally in Mirren Lambert, his enemy’s gorgeous and sexy daughter. Unfortunately, she’s made a few enemies of her own.

She might be a nightmare, but she’s also his ultimate fantasy.

Mirren was born half human, half nightmare. She was on the run from her ruthless father, but when he abducted her young son, she knew he had to be stopped once and for all. Dangerous Vincent is just who she needs to help her, though she has a perilous part to play as well, infiltrating her father’s circles to discover his secrets. They learn something dark is stirring in the dreamwaters, and it’s reaching toward the waking world. Vincent might be holding on to the last of his sanity, but that’s okay, as long as he holds on even tighter to her.

Bring Me A Dream is the fifth installment in the Reveler serial, a hot paranormal romance set in a world where shared dreaming is a new pop culture phenomenon that allows people to indulge their wildest fantasies. But there are also unknown dangers Darkside; nightmares are slowly infiltrating not only dreams, but the waking world as well. And behind them all is a shadowy entity called the Sandman.

Revel with me.

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Chelle:
*Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review

I'm not sure how it's possible, but these books literally get better and better with each installment. This is book #5 of the serial-like REVELER novella series and it was dark, dangerous, and super sexy!

Mirren is part nightmare and a desperate mother who wants nothing more than to save her son and keep him safe. She doesn't trust easily, and those she's forced to work with don't trust her. To make matters even stickier, the man they're all out to save her son from and take care of once and for all is her father...

Vince was your average corporate high society dude. Until he ended up in the Scrape and was literally forced to fight for his life. It changed him in unimaginable ways, and now he's kinda crazy. I will admit, I didn't really like Vincent in the first several books. Even during his whole intense ordeal - which was fantastic to read - I still didn't feel much for him. This book totally changed all of that and I really, really ended up liking him. There's something so refreshing about a madman who knows he's insane and just doesn't care. :)

As I said earlier... dark, dangerous, action-packed, intense, enthralling, and compelling from start to finish. It will be a VERY sad day for me when this series concludes because they have become instant reads. I literally drop EVERYTHING when there's a REVELER book waiting on my Kindle.

Erin Kellison is a master of dark fairytale storytelling and she has carved a unique and fantastic new niche with the REVELER series. If you haven't tried these yet, you are really missing out. I highly suggest reading them in order, and as soon as possible. :)

Bring Me A Dream

[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of Nauti Enchantress

Lora Leigh lives in the rolling hills of Kentucky, often found absorbing the ambience of this peaceful setting. She dreams in bright, vivid images of the characters intent on taking over her writing life, and fights a constant battle to put them on the hard drive of her computer before they can disappear as fast as they appeared. Lora’s family, and her writing life co-exist, if not in harmony, in relative peace with each other. Surrounded by a menagerie of pets, friends, and a teenage son who keeps her quick wit engaged, Lora’s life is filled with joys, aided by her fans whose hearts remind her daily why she writes.

Website / Facebook/ GoodReads

Nauti Enchantress

NAUTI GIRLS Book #2

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When Dawg Mackay made his four half-sisters part of his family, he vowed that he would care for and protect them with everything he had. But what happens now that the girls are all grown up? The Mackay girls are on the loose, and Somerset County will never be the same…

Lyrica Mackay has wanted tall, handsome Marine Graham Brock for as long as she can remember. Unfortunately, Graham only sees her as his friend Dawg Mackay’s “baby sister.” Or so she believes. The truth is, the fiery party girl stirs something in Graham no female ever has. But Graham, like everyone in Somerset County, knows that trouble stalks the Mackays like bears track honey, and when a Mackay runs as hot as Lyrica does, someone’s bound to get burned.

Then Graham discovers that Lyrica’s wild side is just a cover for a frightened and vulnerable woman who needs something true and genuine, something only Graham can offer. But surrendering his heart to Lyrica exposes them both to her shocking past—and a sinister secret that, once exposed, could destroy their only chance at happiness and shake the Mackay family to its core.

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Scholastic Siren - Sara:
*Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review

This book starts off with a bang, quite literally. It jumps right into the romance with very little to no set up. It is very sexy but confusing. I don’t know the characters, having not read book one of the series.

In chapter three, the characters have filled out some and the plot exists, but there is still no reasoning behind any of it.

The writing is great and easy to read. I just wish I had more story.

[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of FreeFall

Jill Sorenson writes sexy romantic suspense for Harlequin and Bantam Dell. Two of her novels, Crash Into Meand Set the Dark on Fire, have been excerpted in Cosmopolitan magazine.

After earning a degree in literature and a bilingual teaching credential from California State University, Jill decided teaching wasn’t her cup of tea. She started writing one day while her firstborn was taking a nap and hasn’t stopped since. She lives in San Diego with her husband and two young daughters.

Keep up with her at her Website, on Facebook, on Twitter, and on GoodReads.

FreeFall
AFTERSHOCK Book #2

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HE'S HER ONLY HOPE... 

Park ranger Hope Banning's plans for a little R & R are put on hold when a plane crashes at the top of a remote mountain. Hope will have to climb the summit and assess the situation. And the only climbing partner available is Sam Rutherford--the enigmatic man she spent a night with six months ago.

FOR STAYING ALIVE...

Ever since Sam lost his girlfriend in a falling accident, he insists on climbing solo. But Hope and any potential survivors need his help. As Sam and Hope set out on an emergency search-and-rescue mission, he realizes the sparks still sizzle between them. And when they learn a killer is among the survivors, they must place their trust in each other for a chance at happiness.

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Guest Reviewer - Benay:
Free Fall fits this genre perfectly. Two lonely, damaged people have an intense attraction to each other but fight it along with their personal demons. Hope Banning is a park ranger who loves the rugged outdoors and the isolation it provides her from pain of past choices. Sam Rutherford is a rich sportsman who also uses isolation to create barriers to relationships; he suffers from amnesia which prevents him from remembering the mourning process for his dead finance.

They are thrown together in a chase through the high Sierras in search of Hope’s sister, who is unwittingly thrown together with a drug smuggler on the run from his gang. It is a fast paced story that has some very satisfying romance.

The characters are engaging. Despite interesting plot lines, the secondary stories bog down the book. None the less, it is a good summer read.

FreeFall

[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of Keep Me Closer

Rhyannon Byrd is an avid, longtime fan of romance and the author of the provocative Primal Instinct and Bloodrunners series. She has been nominated for three Romantic Times Reviewers’ Choice Awards, including best Shape-shifter Romance, and her books have been translated into French, Spanish and German. After having spent years enjoying the glorious sunshine of the American South and Southwest, Rhyannon now lives in the beautiful, but often chilly Cotswolds of England with her wonderfully supportive husband and kids...as well as two high-maintenance, but loveable dogs. For more information on Rhyannon’s books and the latest news, you can visit her website at www.rhyannonbyrd.com.

Keep Me Closer

DANGEROUS TIDES Book #3

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From Rhyannon Byrd, author of Take Me Under, comes yet another sizzling, sensual tale of intrigue, passion, and the most dangerous risk of all…

Five years after the end of his marriage and his career as a detective, Alex Hudson wears a permanent suit of armor to keep the world at bay. Now a PI in South Florida, he believes that he’s better off free of romantic complications—even if a certain beautiful redhead makes him sweat with little more than a look. But he’s determined to steer clear of women and the trouble they bring. Until trouble comes uninvited...

Renowned therapist Brit Cramer has seen her fair share of violence and knows how to handle it. But when a former patient targets Brit as his feminine “ideal,” she finds help in the last place she ever expected—the tall, dark, outrageously sexy Alex Hudson, who saves her from a violent attack. Brit’s been powerfully attracted to Alex from the moment they first met several years ago, but she knew better than to do more than enjoy the view…

The initial uncertainty they both feel shatters in the face of a searing, absolute desire, but their time is running out as they find themselves caught in the sights of a madman who will stop at nothing to get what he wants. Before they know it, they’re fighting not only for their lives, but for the possibility that they may have both found exactly what they’ve always wanted and needed...in each other.

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Scholastic Siren - Sara:

Brit Cramer has a stalker, he is a former patient of hers. He is an abuse victim, and his story is horrific. He thinks Britt can cleanse him of his past.

Alex Hudson is hired by his brother to protect Britt. His brother thinks they would be perfect together and is hoping for more than protection to come of this assignment.

This book is well written and fast-paced. I really like the two characters, but I don't like that they are the only two characters until very late in the story. There are some side characters, but they don't really come on scene much. Even the "bad guy" is only around through his deeds and a few calls.

If the romance is more important than the suspense, this book is for you. If you like a good thriller, you might like this book. If you're looking for a mystery, I can't recommend it.

Keep Me Closer

[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of Dark Blood

#1 New York Times bestselling author Christine Feehan has over 40 novels published, including four series. Each of her four series has hit #1 on the NY Times. Her debut novel Dark Prince received 3 of the 9 Paranormal Excellence Awards in Romantic Literature for 1999. Since then she has been published by Leisure Books,Pocket Books, and currently is writing forBerkley/Jove. She also has earned 7 more PEARL awards.

She is pleased to have made numerous bestseller lists including the New York Times, Publishers Weekly, USA Today, Bookscan, B. Daltons, Amazon,Barnes and Nobles, Waldenbooks, Ingrams, Borders, Rhapsody Book Club,Washington Post, and Walmart. She has received numerous honors throughout her career including being a nominee for the RWA’s RITA. She has received a Career Achievement Award from Romantic Times and the Borders 2008 Lifetime Achievement Award.

She has been published in multiple languages and in many formats, including large print, palm pilot, e-book, and hardcover. In October of 2007 her first manga comic, Dark Hunger was released in stores. This was the first ever manga comic released by Berkley Publishing and it made #11 on Publisher’s Weekly Bestseller’s List. Her ground-breaking book trailer commercials have been shown on TV and in the movie theaters. She has been featured on local TV, appeared on the The Montel Williams Show, and her book Dark Legend was featured on the cover ofRomantic Times Magazine.

Christine Feehan has also appeared at numerous writers’ conventions and book signings including: Romantic Times Convention, Get Caught Reading at Sea Cruise, Celebrate Romance Conference, Emerald City Conference, and numerous Romance Writers of America Conferences.
Connect with Christine on her Website, on Facebook, on Twitter, and on GoodReads.

Dark Blood
DARK Book #26
RELEASE DATE 9/2/14!

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The fates of a warrior reborn and a seductive Dragonseeker are irrevocably entwined in the new Carpathian novel by #1 New York Times bestselling author Christine Feehan, “the queen of paranormal romance” (J. R. Ward).

At long last you are truly back with us…

Zev Hunter was an elite warrior, a dark-blood dealer of death to rogue Lycans who preyed on mankind. He was a loner, never given to personal attachments, and damned fierce at his job. But Zev begins to question his past and his purpose when he awakens in the darkness of the sacred cave of warriors—and is soothed back to consciousness by the sensuously familiar voice of one woman, the woman who has haunted his fantasies for centuries. She was Branislava, member of the Dragonseeker clan…

Mother Earth called the ancients to witness your rebirth…

For this half-mage, half-Carpathian temptress, the ritual of awakening Zev to the council of warriors was the only way to save him. Locked away for his own protection, the time has now come for his rebirth, for his blood to stir with that of the ancient warriors before him. He has been assured by Branislava that their fates are entwined, that their spirits are woven together for eternity and that his new purpose in life is beyond imagining.

Now, with a blood-sworn vow of honor, mercy and endurance, and under the influence of a siren as bewitching as Branislava, Zev begins to wonder what his purpose is, what it means for the future of the Carpathians and what it is about his rebirth that he has to fear…

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Vivacious Valkyrie - Marta:
*Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review
This is a really hard review to write and I had to sit and think before I started this. I have been a fan of Christine Feehan since I found her books some years ago and her Dark series is without doubt her best but there have been times when I wanted something a bit different. Her books have been an integral part of my reading life and have provided much fun and Ms Feehan has a unique writing style and the depth at which she writes is truly astounding. Her research and background information amazes this reader but sometimes it can seem to be a little excessive when all I want is to just enjoy the story. That having being said this the final book in her Lycan trilogy is a wonderful mixture of old and new with cameos from previous book heroes and an unusual enemy to face.

Zev very nearly saw his last moon and would certainly have lost his life had it not been for Branislava , a female dragon seeker who fought to connect their spirits in order to save Zev. Now, Zev is grateful to be alive but he does not want the beautiful Branislava to feel forced into being his life mate . Zev had not realised he was part Carpathian and has spent his life protecting his fellow Lycans but it's clear that in order to defeat their mutual enemy they will now have to work together. The Jaguar shifters have almost been eradicated and the Carpathians and Lycans are being targeted. How can two such different species work together when there is no trust. Zev needs to choose a side but he is a man divided but of one thing he is certain no one will harm Branislava whilst he still breathes! She is everything he wants in a mate and together they can conquer anything or can they? 

I will admit I had reservations about reading this book as the Carpathian men have frequently been very domineering towards their females in some books, Dark Predator and Dark Possession come to my mind and if those characters could be so aggressive then how much more so would an alpha Lycan be? Zev is without doubt very much his own man and fully capable of leading his own pack if he wanted to so the idea of a true beast gave me pause. Yes he is very strong and demands obedience but this author has cleverly made him compassionate with depths that he is not afraid to reveal. A much more rounded out character then I had expected and a man any woman would be proud of.

As for the lucky woman Branislava may be Carpathian but she is also part Mage and I think it's fair to say that her magical abilities are truly tested during this story and it's wonderful to see the heroine taking such an active role . I loved that the author allows Branislava to show all the arrogant Carpathian men just what she is capable of and indeed Zevs new "brothers" equally seem to respect their own women. These Carpathian men are finally seeing that they have warrior women in their lives and not every woman should be hidden away and protected.

As this is Ms Feehan then expect strong sexual content and yes it's frequent but happily it's not the usual cave and mineral pools that seem to frequently crop up in these books. No, this time there's definitely a strong spark between the two lovers and the author lets her imagination run riot! Hot,hot hot!

I enjoyed the story and it was great to read about the characters from previous books which almost made it an ensemble piece at times! Humorous interactions abound between the normally quite taciturn Carpathian's which added to the fun, What I particularly enjoyed was seeing the younger generation come into their own and it's clear we shall be seeing a lot more of them. The Carpathian struggle to survive is far from over though as this new enemy they face is truly evil and capable of even more dastardly deeds then anyone can imagine. I am so glad that the series has not run out of steam as like many readers I realisz how hard it is to create fresh ideas and can happily say that the story was not bogged down by excessive chanting which sometimes slows down the proceedings . 

Dedicated fans will certainly enjoy this but it's not really ideal for a new reader. I would suggest going back to the beginning with Dark Prince and following the journey of this truly gifted race.

Dark Blood

[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of Ghost Layer

RITA® Award Winning novelist Robin D. Owens credits the telepathic cat with attitude in selling her first futuristic/fantasy romance, HeartMate, published in December 2001. Since then she has written thirteen books in the series, Heart Fortune the latest in August, 2011.

Her five book Luna series included average American women Summoned into another dimension to save a world. Her Mystic Circle series is a mixture of contemporary urban and romantic fantasy set in Denver.

And her newest stories, about an uptight accountant who sees Old West ghosts and helps them move on, will start with Ghost Seer in April of 2014. She is profoundly thankful to be recipient of the 2004 Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers’ Writer of the Year award as well as the 2011 Writer of the Year Award, the Colorado Romance Writers Lifetime Achievement Award and the 2010 Best Paranormal and Best of the Best Daphne Du Maurier Award…actually, after winning an award she tends to dance around bored cats.
Find her online at her Website, on Facebook, on Twitter, and on GoodReads.

Ghost Layer

GHOST SEER Book #2

RELEASE DATE 9/2/14!

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What lies beneath…

Clare Cermak’s adjusting to a new man in her life—and a lot of ghosts. The passing of Clare’s aunt gave way to a sizeable inheritance of not only money, but also the ability to communicate with the dead. At the same time, she met Zach Slade, a private detective with a rough past, and just like Clare, he’s not yet ready to accept her gift—or his own.

But Clare has another matter to look into. A multimillionaire needs her help after relocating an old ghost town to his mountain estate. The bones of a murdered prospector are making nightly appearances in his guests’ beds. When the gold miner’s ghost contacts Clare, she promises to help find the name of his killer—but someone doesn't want the past revealed and might find her first…

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Vivacious Valkyrie - Marta:
*Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review
This is the second book in the Ghost Seer series that features a young woman who inherits the ability to see ghosts but is having a hard time coming to terms with all that's happening in her life. When Clare's great aunt died and the "gift" passed to Clare she also inherited wealth and a very unusual canine companion! Enzo is a ghostly Labrador whose purpose is to guide Claire with her unusual ability. Still reeling from all the changes in her life Claire has discovered that it's only the ghosts of a certain time period that she can help but that does not mean that her life is straightforward, no not at all!

In the short time that Claire has had to get used to things she has met Zach, a private detective who himself is experiencing changes in his life. Wounded and forced to retire from his work in law enforcement he struggles with the effects of his injury but there's nothing like holding a good woman in your arms to make a man be glad to be alive and for Zach holding Clare feels like heaven right here on earth! It's early days for them both as a couple but Zach's boss offers Clare a job solving the mystery of bones appearing at an old mining town . The locals are understandably afraid but when Clare tracks down the ghost of the dead prospector and he tells her he was murdered then it's time for Clare and Zach to investigate but someone does not want the mystery solved and are prepared to commit murder to keep their secret!

This had quite a straightforward plot but it sure does meander along. The mystery of the dead man and why he is haunting is only part of this book. We also have the relationship between Clare and Zach to wade through. Clare is hard to read at times as she is quite an independent thinking sort and yet at times very reliant on Zach. It's not been easy for her and she is very protective of others in her family who might also have the ability to see ghosts but at times I just found her well, a little cold. Oh she's full of life and passion but I didn't really connect with her.

Zach is a character who for this reader felt more well rounded. He has accepted his limitations caused by his injury but refuses to just sit back and vegetate. I liked that he is determined to overcome his disability and challenge himself learning new martial arts and it's wonderful to see him reclaiming his life. He carries the pain of loss and although clearly is sensitive to things that others might not believe, Zach fights hard to subdue his own psychic abilities. A sane rational guy but also one who believes completely in Clare.

I found this to be quite slow paced if I am honest but sometimes with urban fantasy I've noticed that series can start quite slow and then build up to something amazing. I am enjoying this series with its mixture of supernatural and romance and the mystery elements do get me trying to work out just who the villain is and why they are up to no good. This book gives some answers but new questions are now arising. Zach is about to be more front and centre I feel as this story arc progresses. Clare has relied on him but it looks as if Zach and Clare will go forward together in more ways than one. I'm loving the ghost aspect, Enzo is a star and the human dynamics are certainly interesting and I'm very curious to learn just what the author plans for this couple next.

Ghost Layer

[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of Love Bites

Angela Knight is the New York Times bestselling author of books for Berkley, Red Sage, Changeling Press, and Loose Id. Her first book was written in pencil and illustrated in crayon; she was nine years old at the time. A few years later, she read The Wolf and the Dove and fell in love with romance. Besides her fiction work, Angela's publishing career includes a stint as a comic book writer and ten years as a newspaper reporter. Several of her stories won South Carolina Press Association awards under her real name.

In 1996, she discovered the small press publisher Red Sage, and realized her dream of romance publication in the company's Secrets 2 anthology. She went on to publish several more novellas in Secrets before editor Cindy Hwang discovered her work there and asked her if she'd be interested in writing for Berkley. Not being an idiot, Angela said yes.

Whatever success she has enjoyed, she attributes to the marvelous editors she's had over the years. David Anthony Kraft and Dwight Zimmerman at Comics Interview taught her the nuts and bolts of fiction writing. Alexandria Kendall of Red Sage discovered her talent for romance writing and encouraged her to believe in herself. And she will be forever grateful to Berkley editor Cindy Hwang, who has been unfailingly supportive.

Angela lives in South Carolina with her husband, Michael, a polygraph examiner and hostage negotiator for the county's Sheriff's Office. The couple have a grown son, Anthony.

Follow her online at her Website, on Facebook, on Twitter, and on GoodReads.

Love Bites

RELEASE DATE 9/2/14!

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The New York Times bestselling author explores her most daring side yet in four novellas designed to take your breath away—including an all-new Mageverse novella...

Warning: “This [novella] will spontaneously combust.”*

In The Bloodslave, Angela Knight’s classic “must read…highly erotic” (*The Best Reviews) novella, a female mercenary comes under fire during a hunt. The beautiful, virginal, and very human Verica is captured by three hungry alpha vampires driven deliriously feral by her purity. But they desire more than her warm blood. They want her body, leaving Verica more vulnerable than ever before—and loving every minute of it.

Plus! Three all-new novellas of vampire romance by Angela Knight

By day, a romance author puts her fantasies to paper. Her nights are another story. The perfect alpha male—not quite human, and absolutely insatiable—is invading her dreams. And with each sleepless night, she wonders… Are they really only dreams? Then, when an alpha male vampire hunter sets his sights on a pair of vampire lovers, things don't work out quite the way he had in mind. Plus, Angela Knight introduces the Doms of the Round Table and a kinky circle of pleasure, pain, and power as she returns to her “sexy as hell” (Heroes and Heartbreakers) Mageverse world for a new twist on the Arthurian legend

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Vivacious Valkyrie - Marta:
*Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review

I confess to loving the books by this author that are set in her Magaverse world and was so pleased that this anthology includes a full length story from there. This book also contains two very short stories as well and they have something in common, fangs and dominant men! These stories are hot and peppered with kinky sex, bondage and of course blood! Entertaining to read but not for those who only want a sweet romance as this book should come with a heat warning!

The first story "Oath of Service" features Morgana Le Fay, a witch who serves Arthur and his knights but she is a constant thorn in everyone's side. Indeed throughout the Magaverse series Morgana has been a character full of shades and she has always had her secrets . In this story we learn more of her past and some of the reasons for her harsh manipulative ways come to light. Morgana has always known that her feelings for Sir Percival could bring her to her knees but she's about to discover things about herself that she has never anticipated! Percival is a dominant male with fierce appetites and to have the tasty Morgana under his control is a heady rush that he cannot resist.

The second was a very short story "Be Careful What You Wish For" and features a trio of vampires who set out to rescue a damsel in distress but unfortunately there's an evil wizard at work and he plays dirty! As this is very short I cannot really give much away but I will say it continues with the sexy vampire theme that runs throughout this book and unfortunately for this reader was the weakest offering. It's quite an abrupt beginning and I personally didn't really connect with any of the characters but given the length that's not surprising.

The final short story is " The Bloodslave" a futuristic piece that has three vampires getting their hands on a human female. These hungry (in so many ways!) males cannot believe their luck when they find the virgin human Verica alone and so very far from home . She's their captive but is she about to turn the tables on them? I really enjoyed this story as it's got my favourite kind of hero, strong sexy definitely alpha and yet open to new possibilities. Although a novella there's insight into the characters which really helps hold the readers attention. Loved it!

Angela Knight is one of the most consistent authors around. Her books are plot driven with twists that leave her readers gasping. This book scorches with her own unique brand of sensuality although those readers who do not enjoy the more kinky aspects of BDSM may find this not their particular cup of tea! It's quite mild so please don't be put off and remember it's just an excuse to wallow in the fantasy of those lovely dominant men! Hot is a word too often used I feel, combustible seems more fitting! A must read for Angela Knight fans and a sneak peak at the end of her next book! Fabulous stuff!

Love Bites

[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of Wickedly Dangerous

Deborah Blake is the award-winning author of Circle, Coven and Grove: A Year of Magickal Practice (Llewellyn 2007), Everyday Witch A to Z: An Amusing, Inspiring & Informative Guide to the Wonderful World of Witchcraft (Llewellyn 2008), The Goddess is in the Details: Wisdom for the Everyday Witch (Llewellyn 2009), Everyday Witch A to Z Spellbook (July 2010), Witchcraft on a Shoestring (Llewellyn 2010). and, Everyday Witch Book of Rituals (Llewellyn 2012). She has published numerous articles in Llewellyn annuals, as well as other Pagan publications, and her ongoing column, “Magick on a Shoestring” is featured in Witches & Pagans Magazine.

Deborah’s paranormal romance series, The Baba Yaga will be coming in 2014 from Berkley Publishing.

Her short story, “Dead and (Mostly) Gone” is included in the Pagan Anthology of Short Fiction: 13 Prize Winning Tales (Llewellyn, 2008). Deborah’s first novel, Witch Ever Way You Can, was the winner or finalist in many RWA (Romance Writers of America) contests and received the EMILY “Best of the Best” Award. Her fiction is primarily Paranormal Romance, although she also writes Fantasy, Mystery and Young Adult.

Deborah had been interviewed on television, radio and podcast, and can be found online at Facebook, Twitter andhttp://deborahblake.blogspot.com as well as The Creativity Cauldron, a loop she founded for writers and aspiring writers.

When not writing, Deborah runs The Artisans’ Guild, a cooperative shop she founded with a friend in 1999, and also works as a jewelry maker, tarot reader, and energy healer. She lives in a 100 year old farmhouse in rural upstate New York with five cats who supervise all her activities, both magickal and mundane.

Wickedly Dangerous

BABA YAGA Book #1

RELEASE DATE 9/2/14!

Buy from Amazon / B&N

Known as the wicked witch of Russian fairy tales, Baba Yaga is not one woman, but rather a title carried by a chosen few. They keep the balance of nature and guard the borders of our world, but don’t make the mistake of crossing one of them…

Older than she looks and powerful beyond measure, Barbara Yager no longer has much in common with the mortal life she left behind long ago. Posing as an herbalist and researcher, she travels the country with her faithful (mostly) dragon-turned-dog in an enchanted Airstream, fulfilling her duties as a Baba Yaga and avoiding any possibility of human attachment.

But when she is summoned to find a missing child, Barbara suddenly finds herself caught up in a web of deceit and an unexpected attraction to the charming but frustrating Sheriff Liam McClellan.

Now, as Barbara fights both human enemies and Otherworld creatures to save the lives of three innocent children, she discovers that her most difficult battle may be with her own heart…

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Vivacious Valkyrie - Marta:*Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review
Now this is completely different and I'm so pleased that the old legend is given a new twist! For centuries the old Russian legend of Baba Yaga has both fascinated and terrified many but this new series brings a whole new spin on the idea of a woman connected by magic to the earth and woe betide any who cross her. Neither wholly good nor really wicked the Baba Yaga will often be sought by those needing help but making a bargain with her will often have consequences so beware!

Barbara Yeager is so much more than she seems to be. A woman traveling with her dog with a fascination for herbs and their uses but Barbara is also known as Baba Yaga! Oh shes not just the witch of eastern folklore but one of a handful who protect the boundaries between worlds and carry the title of Baba Yaga. Called to a small town by a sense of acute distress Barbara quickly finds out that children are going missing but she also attracts the attention of the local sheriff Liam and the law and Barbara's secrets are quite literally worlds apart! Something nasty is in the town and Liam clearly needs help as what's attacking the townsfolk is most definitely not from the mortal realm but how can Barbara save the missing children without giving her secret away?

This was an unexpected delight and I loved that the author took inspiration from old legends without rehashing them too much. The Baba Yaga is still portrayed as a woman who can be tricky when it comes to magic and her incredible home from the old stories comes bang up to date in this book. Those who remember the stories will be pleased to see her faithful companion Chudo Yudo a dragon that in this reality has the form of a dog is very much alive and kicking in this story and his character adds lots of humour to the proceedings.

As for the character well Barbara isn't perfect and at times really did seem conflicted. She is a woman of more than eighty years but looks like a young woman still but she has given up on love. After all she is always traveling to wherever she is needed next so any kind of permanent relationship is out if the question, isn't it? Well there is a certain troubled sheriff who is clearly fascinated by Barbara but unfortunately he carries his own dark secrets and this is not the usual romantic novel.

As this is the first of this new series I am very interested to see just what the author has in mind to deliver next. There's a wealth of possibilities here I think as we meet creatures of myth and legend and of course there are the other Baba Yagas to meet! This book kept my interest and I'm happy to say it's a good length, which I do prefer. A strong heroine, diverse supporting characters and most definitely plot driven. I will happily read more from Ms Blake and look forward to her next book.

Wickedly Dangerous

[Archive] LITERAL ADDICTION's Review of Shatter

USA Today and New York Times Bestselling author Erin McCarthy sold her first book in 2002 and has since written almost fifty novels and novellas in teen fiction, new adult, and adult romance. Erin has a special weakness for New Orleans, tattoos, high-heeled boots, beaches and martinis. She lives in Ohio with her family, two grumpy cats and a socially awkward dog.
Connect with Erin online at her Website, on Facebook, on Twitter, and on GoodReads.

Shatter

TRUE BELIEVERS Book #4

RELEASE DATE 9/2/14!

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From the USA Today bestselling author of True, Sweet, andBelieve comes a tantalizing New Adult novel about finding love in the most unexpected ways…

Kylie Warner prides herself on being optimistic, but after finding her best friend in bed with her boyfriend and flunking chemistry, her upbeat attitude has taken a dive. Even an impromptu hook-up with her sexy new chemistry tutor only brightens her mood slightly. After all, it’s not like she’ll ever see the tattooed scholar again…

While he’s a whiz at complex equations, Jonathon Kadisch has trouble when it comes to figuring out women. So when Kylie tells him that she’s pregnant after their night of passion, he’s at a complete loss. He’s prepared to be a good father—unlike his own deadbeat dad—but he’s less prepared to fall for the genuine and alluring blonde bearing his child.

With emotions running high, Kylie wonders if Jonathon’s devotion is out of growing love or looming obligation. And when heartbreak threatens to tear them apart, Jonathon will have to fight for the only girl who’s ever made him feel whole…

Our Review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Vivacious Valkyrie - Marta:*Copy gifted in exchange for an honest review
Wow! This is the fourth installment of the True Believers series by this popular author and I think she has certainly surpassed all my expectations with this book. This series about new adults just keeps getting better with each book and it's lovely the way the friends each find happiness even if at first it looks as if all is hopeless. From pathos to passion, despair to hope, this book brings a wealth of emotions and at times it's startling just how much feeling the author imbues into her words . This story has everything you want in a romance but so much more as it's truly a coming of age story. Ms McCarthy has done a fabulous job and it would be an insane reader who did not pick up this book.

Kylie has always met life head on and has never really struggled but finding out her boyfriend cheated on her with one of her closest friends has quite simply ripped her apart. Kylie doesn't believe that she could feel any worse and when this story starts she is very much a victim. Kylie is by nature happy go lucky, confident and social but the recent events in her life have left her broken and it feels as if everything is just slipping away. Needing to get her grades back up she arranges to meet with a tutor but Jonathan is such an unexpected find. First off he's probably the cutest geek Kylie has ever seen and then there is the fact that he seems like a genuinely nice guy! They just seem to click on so many levels and one thing leads to another and what do you know Kylie has one night of truly amazing sex with Jonathan but realizes that she probably won't ever see him again. Wrong!

Jonathan has his life all mapped out and he's more than just a student he's a really bright chemistry one with an amazing future ahead of him. Oh he realizes that he's not exactly what every woman fantasizes about but his one night of passion with the bubbly Kylie has left him questioning things. When Kylie reappears some weeks later and tells him that she's having his baby the bottom simply falls out of his world! To say he is astounded is too little, too simplistic,what Jonathan feels is a need so deep to be there for Kylie and their child that it's something he feels soul deep. Jonathan's own father was never interested in him but Jonathan is determined to be a better man . Luckily Kylie is a warm hearted woman who wants to give their child as much love and stability as Jonathan does and they try to work together at being the best parents they can possibly be.

Life is full of unexpected things and an unplanned baby is probably the biggest shock that anyone can face. Kylie might be young but she's full of maternal instincts but her attraction to Jonathan worries her. Can they ever make a go of things really? If they try will it end up with them hating each other? Jonathan seems to want Kylie but she is unsure if it's just his guilt that plagues him. He is without doubt a very mature and sensitive guy but pregnancy can bring many challenges and this young couple are about to discover just how hard life can really get!

I loved this story and even though it's probably not aimed at someone of my age a great story will always have me hooked. At the beginning we see Kylie as a victim but as we reach the conclusion her growth as a woman is a beautiful thing to read. Kylie was always an optimistic live wire throughout this series and indeed at times has seemed quite shallow but she has inner depths that truly shine and it's great to see her feelings of self worth grow. This book is titled Shatter but could equally be called Strength! Kylie is so very strong and as a woman I just want to hug her! The sexy ( and very giving!) Jonathan is just too perfect and at times I wasn't quite convinced but he won me over and his devotion to Kylie and their Celldividing Zygote was heartwarming! I mean come on ,how many guys google the ins and outs of pregnancy from blood production to lactating breasts and everything in between! Jonathan really reads as if he is a scientist with a thirst for knowledge and I applaud the author for all the detail that has gone into his character.. 

This story could have gone in so many different directions but I have to admit that the end was a little surprising. If you want to read about love and all the complexities associated with it then this book will blow your mind. I adored this couple and as I read recently that the author intended four books in this series I am a little sad to say goodbye to all these characters but for me Ms McCarthy has definitely saved the best for last!

Shatter