REVIEW: A HEATED TOUCH OF ACTION by MK MEREDITH

A Heated Touch of Action

Scripted for Love #3

By MK Meredith

Releasing March 19th, 2019

Self-Published

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In A Heated Touch of Action (Scripted for Love #3) by MK Meredith, for a woman who doesn't believe in love, psychology professor Bel Cutler is taking on quite an ambitious project on the subject that could very well backfire and ruin her reputation if she can't get the project off the ground. Still, she's not about to give up and it's just lucky she finds the perfect photographer in Jimmy Callaghan to take the photos for the project. However, the more time Bel spends with Jimmy, the more Bel finds herself falling and falling hard, even though love scares her. Will Jimmy be able to convince Bel to take a chance on him or will they lose their shot at happy ever after because they find it hard to trust each other?

If you've never read a story by Ms. Meredith before then you're missing out on her sublime writing style; sexy heroes that will definitely leave a female reader hoping for a man just like any of her gorgeous heroes, especially Jimmy; and highly entertaining stories filled with tough obstacles for the main characters to overcome, some quirky secondary characters that don't know when to quit matchmaking, and wonderful playful banter that keeps this reader entertained from start to finish. 

The way this story started had my undivided attention because of the wonderful family dynamics of the Cutler family and their determination to see that Bel experiences life to the fullest. Will she give Jimmy a chance because her family wants her to or because she believes he's the right photographer for the job? Will the heroine's brother be capable of convincing her to take some risks in life instead of always playing it safe? Moreover, the dialogue was a wonderful combination of intense moments due to the main characters back stories and things that are happening in the hero's life and teasing banter that had me loving how this couple push each other's buttons. 

With the main characters, I absolutely loved Jimmy. He's protective of those he loves; he's resilient and courageous in having overcome everything he's been through in his life, even though he feels so much guilt over what happened to his brother; and I liked how determined he was to win Bel over, especially considering what happened the first time they met. Yet, what I liked most of all about the hero was the close relationship he shared with his niece and that he would do anything for her. No way should the young girl feel unsafe in her own home. Not when he can help her. 

While the heroine, I couldn't help but sympathize with her and it's understandable why she's so afraid of love and fear people leaving her. It's happened before and could very easily happen again, so why bother giving love a chance when she could end up having her heart broken? Still, I liked that she took a chance with Jimmy and that he showed her that taking risks doesn't always have to be a bad thing. Really, it can be quite exhilarating and lead to something great like forever after with Mr. Right. 

Overall, Ms. Meredith has delivered a wonderfully-crafted, heartfelt, remarkable read in this third book of her Scripted for Love series where the chemistry between this couple was tangible and convincing from the moment they come face-to-face; the sizzling romance lights up the pages enough to set off sparks; and the ending had me loving the hero's determination to show Bel how much he loves her and how much he trusts her. However, it was the epilogue that wrapped this story up perfectly, as there's so much to be celebrated and more matchmaking to come, which so has me looking forward to more from this wonderful author, especially if there is more stories to come for this series. I would recommend A Heated Touch of Action by MK Meredith and the other stories of this series, if you enjoy Hollywood romances, the brother's friend trope or books by authors Marina Adair, Catherine Bybee, Jill Sanders and Jennifer Probst.

  

Seriously, is it really so bad when a love expert doesn’t believe in love? 

Psychology professor Bel Cutler is taking on an ambitious project about love. Personally, she’s never been lucky when it came to matters of the heart. Professionally, she’s determined to master it. Her first order of business: find a photographer to capture the different states of love. But the only one willing to work within her budget is the last man she’d ever stake her future on… let alone trust with her heart. 

Struggling photographer, Jimmy Callahan knows trouble when he sees it. Which is why, when he takes one look at Bel, he should run the other way. Only, she’s just the kind of laced up woman he likes to unravel. Old Jimmy would offer to teach the professor a thing or two about love, or better yet, lust. But Responsible Jimmy needs to fix his bad boy reputation…and fast. He’s in the middle of a nasty custody battle, so keeping his hands off her is imperative. Yet, the woman gets into his head—and heart—like no other he’s ever met. 

Nothing is ever a “sure thing” when dealing with matters of the heart, and the more time they spend together, the more convoluted stability and reasoning seems. Especially when desire gets the best of them and risks Bel’s career and Jimmy’s chances of saving his niece. 

If only love came with a safety net…

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REVIEW: FAKING FOREVER by CATHERINE BYBEE

Faking Forever

First Wives #4

By Catherine Bybee

Releasing March 12th, 2019

Montlake Romance

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In Faking Forever (First Wives #4) by Catherine Bybee, Shannon Wentworth wants a baby and feels time is running out. Mexico seems to be the perfect place to find a willing baby daddy, especially since no-one knows her and she won't run the risk of ever seeing the man she chooses again. However, when the bride of the wedding party whose photographs she'll be taking decides to flee before saying 'I Do', Shannon finds she could be in trouble with the groom since he believes she sabotaged his wedding. Will Shannon be able to convince Victor that he's lucky the wedding was called off or will they lose their shot at happy ever after because his ex-bride-to-be wants him back?

Ms. Bybee always impresses me with her writing style, which encompasses enthralling dialogue that keeps me entertained from start to finish; hot and delicious heroes that know how to please the woman they want while battling tough obstacles to get the girl; and amazing friendships between strong women where their motto should be something similar to 'All for one and one for all', as they support each other through thick and thin. 

The way this story started had me immediately hooked, as the heroine has a plan and I loved how that plan goes totally awry and she finds herself falling for the groom whose wedding was called off. Then again, it felt like Victor dodged a bullet in having his wedding called off since his bride-to-be was an immature brat and Shannon is the perfect match for him. Moreover, the main characters are relatable, likeable and I loved their growing relationship because there's instant chemistry between them, but that doesn't mean either are going to give into it. Not when Victor is a workaholic and Shannon deserves a man that would put her first in his life instead of work. 

As for the dialogue, it was intense due to the main characters back stories and had me sympathizing with the heroine because her divorce hit her hard. Yet, in all honesty, she's better off without her ex-husband and is lucky to have such good friends in Lori, Avery and Trina. So, what more could she ask for, especially when she's looking to become a single mother? Furthermore, the heroine had me smiling constantly throughout this story with her sassiness and the way she speaks her mind, especially in the moment when she and Victor first meet and how Shannon tells the hero what women want from a relationship. Which made me think, 'Take that, Victor' and I liked how he began to realize how right Shannon is when it comes to his personal and professional lives. Certainly, being all work and no play makes Victor 'Mr. Monotonous' and having Shannon in his life definitely shakes things up. I also liked how resilient and courageous the heroine is because having a plan doesn't always work out and being spontaneous can sometimes be a good thing. And, in the heroine's case, meeting Victor is a very good thing. 

While the hero, his character progression is brilliant, as he goes from Mr. All-work-and-no-play to Mr. Play-and-less-work. Really, Shannon brings out the best in him and makes him realize that there's more to life than work. Furthermore, I enjoyed the tight knit relationship the hero has with his family. It's as close as the one Shannon has with her friends and I loved how the hero's brother teases him. Yet, what I liked most of all about the hero was his determination to win over Shannon because they're meant to be. Certainly, there are a few hiccups along the way, as trust is important to Shannon and without trust their relationship couldn't possibly survive. Yet, I'm glad that he never gave up, even when the going got so tough that the heroine might not forgive him. 

Overall, Ms. Bybee has delivered another spectacular and highly entertaining read in this fourth book of her First Wives series where the chemistry between Victor and Shannon was off-the-charts; the romance was sizzling and heated up the pages at the right moments; and the ending had me loving the hero's determination to show Shannon that she's the one for him and nothing will keep them apart. However, it was the epilogue that wrapped this story up perfectly, as the four women are so lucky to have each found their Mr. Right and be as happy as they are after everything they've been through individually and together as friends. I would recommend Faking Forever by Catherine Bybee, if you enjoy the opposites attract trope, the enemy to lovers trope or books by authors Marina Adair, Jill Sanders, Jill Shalvis and Miranda Liasson. 

Shannon Wentworth’s biological clock is ticking, and she isn’t going to let her single status keep her from having a baby. When her wedding-photography business takes her to Mexico, she has every intention of finding a willing baby daddy to help her out. Until the bride goes AWOL, leaving Shannon to coddle the arrogant fiancé who has accused her of sabotaging his wedding.

Victor Brooks never could have imagined that he’d be on a honeymoon for one. Only here he is, taking a hard look at his life after the younger women he thought he loved walked out. The woman who volunteers to help him reflect is the last person he expects to be attracted to. Between the tequila, the sun, and one earth-shattering kiss, Victor finds Shannon a distraction too sexy to ignore.

They strike a deal: wait three months, cool off, and see if their tropical beach attraction is worth taking up when they go back home. Unfortunately, that’s just enough time for the past to come calling. All their best-laid plans are at risk. So is the last thing Shannon expected to matter the most: her heart.

BUY LINK: Amazon

BLOG TOUR - REVIEW: ENTICE ME by KELLY ELLIOTT

 

Entice Me

Austin Singles #2

By Kelly Elliott

Releasing March 8th, 2019

Self-Published

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Since the moment Kaelynn Dotson walked into my world, I haven’t been able to think, eat, or sleep. After having my heart broken by the only woman I’ve ever loved, Kaelynn has ignited something deep down inside me—a flame so hot that I cannot ignore, no matter how hard I try.   I vowed to never open myself up to a woman again, but there’s something about Kaelynn that is drawing me to her.   

There’s just one problem.   She’s hiding something from me. Trust is something I need, but when it comes to Kaelynn, all the lines seem to be blurred. I know I should take this as a warning and walk away, but for some reason, it’s only enticing me more.   

I’m living a lie.   I’m not the girl from a middle-class family in Utah like Nash thinks. I’m the heiress to a billion-dollar fortune, and that’s not what he’s looking for. He’s had that before, and it left him scarred.   

If the truth comes out, I’ll lose the only man I’ve ever fallen in love with . . . I’m not sure I’m willing to give him up.  

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In Entice Me (Austin Singles #2) by Kelly Elliott, Nash never thought he'd be able to trust another woman after his best friend's sister broke his heart. However, the moment he meets Kaelynn Dotson, he finds he's unable to stay away from her, even as he suspects she's hiding something. However, when he discovers the truth, will Nash and Kaelynn be able to overcome the fact that they're from different worlds or will they go their separate ways?

Normally, Ms. Elliott has the ability to pull me into her stories right from the beginning, but this story I struggled to get into because of the hero's ex that didn't deserve the hero's attention and the fact that the heroine thought hiding something so huge about herself was a good idea. Couldn't Lily take a hint that Nash wanted nothing to do with her? Why couldn't the heroine open up to the hero about her family? Is she really desperate to hide that she comes from a family that has money just because Nash doesn't want to be with another person who comes from a family with plenty of money? However, in saying that, by the end of this story I absolutely loved it.

As for the dialogue, it was intense and entertaining due to the main characters back stories because they're from two different worlds and neither are looking for a relationship. Yet, they find they're drawn to each other and can't seem to resist being around each other. Furthermore, both the main characters are interesting due to their back stories and their journey to happy ever after is filled with tough obstacles. Yet, I liked that the hero took a chance on Kaelynn, even knowing that she's hiding something; something that could very much put an end to their blossoming relationship if he discovers the truth. 

With the main characters, the heroine is strong and brave for taking the chance that she has in starting her own business instead of working for the family company. It shows how much initiative she has, especially with the work she does to help veterans. I also liked that she gave Nash a chance, even knowing that things could end in disaster once he learns the truth of what she's hiding. Then again, the means he goes to in order to discover her secret could just as easily cause a rift. 

While the hero, he's resilient, courageous and I liked that he took a chance on Kaelynn because she's the first woman he's been interested in since his ex broke his heart. I also liked the close friendships he shares with the small group of friends he has and that they're always giving him advice because they believe he needs to move on. Certainly, Lily broke his heart, but it isn't the end of the world and Kaelynn is good for him. Yet, what I liked most of all about the hero was the tight bond he shares with his sister and that they always have each other's backs. Then again, their father isn't the easiest man to get along with. There's stubborn and then there's being too set in one's ways to ever be able to compromise, which is how I imagined the hero's dad to be when the siblings talked about him at the beginning of this story. 

Overall, Ms. Elliott has delivered a really good read in this book where the chemistry between this couple was strong; the romance was delightful and had me loving that these two took a chance on each other; and the ending had me worried for this couple's happy ever after because of the heroine's reaction to something Nash does, but had me loving the way they make things right between them to achieve their happy ever after. I would recommend Entice Me by Kelly Elliott, if you enjoy the sister's best friend trope, the opposite attracts trope or books by authors Corinne Michaels, Kristy Bromberg, Penelope Ward and Vi Keeland. 

     

   

Kelly Elliott is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling contemporary romance author. Since finishing her bestselling Wanted series, Kelly continues to spread her wings while remaining true to her roots and giving readers stories rich with hot protective men, strong women and beautiful surroundings. Her bestselling works include, Wanted, Broken, Without You, and Unconditional Love, to name just a few. Kelly has been passionate about writing since she was fifteen. After years of filling journals with stories, she finally followed her dream and published her first novel, Wanted, in November of 2012. Kelly lives in central Texas with her husband, daughter, and two pups. When she’s not writing, Kelly enjoys reading and spending time with her family. She is down to earth and very in touch with her readers, both on social media and at signings. To find out more about Kelly and her books, you can find her through her website. www.kellyelliottauthor.com 

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BLOG TOUR - REVIEW & GIVEAWAY: THE RUNAWAY by JENNIFER BERNARD

Today we have the release week blitz for THE RUNAWAY by Jennifer Bernard! Check it out and be sure to grab your copy of this sexy romance today!

The Runaway

The Rockwell Legacy #4

By Jennifer Bernard

Releasing March 5th, 2019

Self-Published

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He knew she’d be nothing but trouble… 

The moment she drifted into his marina, Mark Castellani knew Gracie was different. Resisting the blond pixie’s breezy approach to life is difficult, but Mark’s had years of practice living for simple pleasures that don’t extend beyond the next sunrise. Why long for anything lasting when he knows how quickly his whole world can be flipped upside down? 

A bombshell long-lost memory finally explains why Gracie Rockwell never quite fit in with her boisterous family—she isn’t a Rockwell, after all. Desperate for answers, she leaves her beloved Rocky Peak Lodge in search of the little boy who saved her so long ago. Did he grow up to be the gorgeous-but-guarded Mark Castellani? What does he know about her true origins? If only she could pry some answers from her enigmatic new boss—and get rid of her massive crush. 

But while she’s eager to uncover the past, he’d rather bury it forever. Mark was right—Gracie is the kind of trouble he never wanted. But she’s exactly the trouble he needs. 

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In The Runaway (Rockwell Legacy #4) by Jennifer Bernard, Gracie Rockwell wants answers after she discovers that she was adopted. Tracking down Mark Castellani was easy, but opening up to him about their shared past isn't so simple. However, once Mark helps her piece together some of the past, she decides she needs to pursue it further. Will Gracie learn the truth about the past or will her determination to get to the bottom of who her birth parents are put her in danger?

This is the first book I've read of this series and it's a story I thoroughly enjoyed from beginning to end due to the fantastic main characters that go through a lot to be together and have interesting back stories where they share quite the harrowing past; and compelling dialogue that drew me in from the very beginning and had me reading quickly, determined to discover whether the heroine would learn what she wants to know.

With the main characters, the heroine is quirky, resilient, courageous, has a great family in her adopted father and siblings; and I liked how much of a challenge she provided the hero. Really, she made this story fun and had me smiling because of her quirkiness while at the same time having enough other emotion to have me sympathizing with the pair due to all that they've been through in their pasts and deal with throughout this story. While the hero, he's worked hard to move on from the past, but what happened to him isn't something he could ever forget. He's just lucky he had someone to help him through the hard times since his parents didn't handle what happened to him all that well. Still, the hero is resilient, kind, caring and I liked how protective he was of the heroine the closer they came to learning the truth about the heroine's past. 

Overall, Ms. Bernard has delivered a fantastic read in this book where the chemistry between this couple was strong and convincing; the romance was nicely-detailed and full of heat and passion; and the ending had me concerned for the main characters because of all that happens, but had me loving the hero's determination to win Grace back after their relationship goes awry. However, it was the epilogue that wrapped this story up nicely and had me looking forward to the next book of the series. I would recommend The Runaway by Jennifer Bernard, if you enjoy contemporary romance with a dose of suspense; the mysterious strangers trope; or books by authors Kimberly Kincaid, Kate Meader, Avery Flynn and Erin Nicholas. 

Catch Up On the Series:

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The Rogue:

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The Renegade:

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Jennifer Bernard is a USA Today bestselling author of contemporary romance. Her books have been called "an irresistible reading experience" full of "quick wit and sizzling love scenes." A graduate of Harvard and former news promo producer, she left big city life in Los Angeles for true love in Alaska, where she now lives with her husband and stepdaughters. She still hasn't adjusted to the cold, so most often she can be found cuddling with her laptop and a cup of tea. No stranger to book success, she also writes erotic novellas under a naughty secret name that she's happy to share with the curious.

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