Review: Outside

Outside by Michelle Mankin
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Ever want to hear an audio duo sing?
Grab this audio.

listen to the whole thing.
Get to the end.

Hear the singing.

So, I've been a fan of Kai and Wen for what feels like forever at this point. They nail the characters every single time. They nail the emotions and the chemistry and the voices. They do not disappoint in this book.

Linc and Moana. Well, this is one story I wasn't expecting. Second chances are a favorite of mine.
And this is one epic second chance.

It's been fifteen years since Moana has seen Linc. And the last time she saw him wasn't a moment she wants to remember.

This story is told in three parts: the present, the past, and the present. It flows nicely. I enjoyed seeing the two reconnect in the present, but it's the story of their past that has you falling in love.

So, uh, can someone point me in the direction of the hot surfers? And maybe the rock gods while you're at it. Either will do just fine.

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Review: Unmasked

Unmasked by Magan Vernon
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I'm all for a sweet love story with a strong male and a strong female. Throw in snowboarding and ice skating and you have my attention.

So, what could go wrong?
Well, a bet, for one. Have we learned nothing from movies? We don't need the "She's All That" moment. No more taking the outcast and turning her into a beauty. Because these are obviously beautiful women to begin with. Beautiful women who have other things to focus on than their outward appearances--whether that is physical beauty or inner beauty.

And our Ice Queen is beautiful. She is strong and confident and an Olympic champion. So, why the hesitation with men? Probably because they all suck.

Except our snowboarder who is basically Winter Games royalty thanks to his parents.
He takes that bet, the one set by his idiotic friends--who are real jackasses, btw--and locks in.

She doesn't stand a chance.
Neither does he.

The two find love where and when they least expected it. I enjoyed the couple, but I'm almost more interested in Elsa's skate partner and her sister. Like, tell me what's happening there! I have to know!

Grab this book if you want something sweet. It's good for that.

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Review: Barbarian Lover

Barbarian Lover by Ruby Dixon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Need something fun to read? Well, this is the series for you. Yes, I'm on book three. No, I have no shame.

However, Kira was probably the most...tame...of the females so far. I mean, she is in competition with Georgie and Liz so she's kinda at a disadvantage here.

BUT she is pretty kick-ass and I loved her almost as much as Aehako did.

Aehako makes this book, btw. He's strong, sweet, funny, flirty, and all alpha. I'm beginning to think all of the aliens are alpha, which makes me wonder how they all manage to get along so well. Especially since prior to the humans showing up, there were only 4 female sa-akhui. Maybe that's not the point here.

The point is that these aliens are going to get under your skin about as quickly and just as thoroughly as a khui.

Just keep going. You know you can't stop at book three. I already have the next 10 books on my kindle. I won't stop until I've read them all!

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Review: Barbarian Alien

Barbarian Alien by Ruby Dixon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Liz is probably my favorite. She was my favorite on the original alien ship and she continued to be my favorite as Georgie became the leader of the females.

Liz has heart and spirit.
Okay, okay. She's a smart-ass and she's strong and that's why I love her.

And Raahosh?
Holy moody alpha alien, Batman!

If there was ever an alien asshole, Raahosh is it. But once you get his story, you totally understand and you just want to hug him and squeeze him and love him.
Just like any alpha.

But this alpha is blue, ridged, over seven-feet tall, and a total badass.
You're gonna love him.

Grab yourself an alien. In fact, grab yourself an entire planet of them. I'm in for the long haul with this series. I can't stop!

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Review: Ice Planet Barbarians

Ice Planet Barbarians by Ruby Dixon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

What did I just read? Was that for real? Did we really just land on Not Hoth and mate with blue aliens?

Oh, you aren't that far along yet? Just ignore the beginning of this review then.

But seriously, why did I not read this sooner? I'm not even sure what's happening with my brain. My brain tells me it's weird and sci-fi (which is not my favorite) and yet it's smutty and almost sweet.

Vektal is the blue alien.
Georgie is the human.

Together, they will unite two species.
Or something.

The girls have crash landed (read this as: left for almost dead) on this crazy ice planet. They were abducted from their comfy, cozy, warm beds while sleeping and when they awoke, they realized that aliens had taken them in the night.
Super unfortunate.

Georgie, who is awesome and kinda badass, even if she makes super questionable decisions, is the leader because, well, everyone else is weak and afraid. So, after the not so awesome crash landing on Not Hoth, she takes to exploring.

Obviously this is a horrible idea.

But Vektal will save her!

This is where the smut begins. And it's totally worth reading. I have no idea where I was in my life prior to reading alien smut, but I think it was a dark place, lacking love and laughter.

Because this is awesome.

On to book 2. I can't wait to see where this crazy sci-fi, alien smut takes us.

Job well done, Ms. Dixon.

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Review: Rhythm

Rhythm by Mandi Beck
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Why didn't I read this sooner? I absolutely freaking love Stone and Willow. I mean, what's not to love about a broken man who almost screwed up his shot with his one true love? What's not to love about a man who quotes Bieber (thank you, Stone Lockhart, for my love of Justin Bieber)?

Nothing!

This is a nice little visit with Willow and Stone that *almost* leaves you satisfied. Honestly, I'll never get my fill of Stone. So, this is satisfying, yes, but I want more (You can find him in Sugar, which is a nice bonus to the sexy of Beau McCrae)!!!

Thanks for this trip into the lives of Stone and Wills. I look forward to everything you do when it comes to these two.

And thanks for filling a small void where my heart is screaming for Stone.

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Review: The Roommate Agreement

The Roommate Agreement by Leddy Harper
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

My first Leddy Harper book.

Not my last.

I really enjoyed the writing, the story, and the characters. She didn't give me perfect characters. The characters are flawed, imperfect, and a touch bitter.

All with good reason.

But they aren't closed off to everything.

Adventure, friends, roommates.

They take on these new experiences and find love where they weren't expecting it.

Cash and Jade find each other at the perfect time in their lives. They grow within themselves and around each other. Neither expected to find their true love when they became roommates, but no one can argue that the unconventional beginning was exactly the beginning they needed.

And Aria? Oh, I love that kid. And I love how Cash loves her. He's the perfect guy.

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Review: Shadows of Self

Shadows of Self by Brandon Sanderson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Faceless Immortal Stars

I read/listen to fantasy because I love the world building, the epic-ness of everything, the great battle scenes, and the characters. I always find the characters to be so full of life and passion, and their trials are never easy. Of course, they wouldn't be called trials if they were, but that isn't the point. The trials manage to catch our characters by surprise at times. They can be elbow deep in one trial and have truths revealed about previous trials that jeopardize their current path.

Sanderson does this flawlessly.

I didn't go into this book thinking I'd cry. In fact, I grab fantasy because no matter how involved they are, I'm not likely to shed a tear. And sometimes, it's that kind of buildup, that kind of magic, that catches me by surprise when the tears start to fall.

This is twice--minimum--that Sanderson has pulled tears from me. This is twice--minimum--that I have hurt for his characters. This is twice--minimum--that I have wished for the ability to go back in time to change things for those very characters who have me in tears now. Those same characters who are completely altered because of a few learned truths and revelations while in the middle of a near impossible trial.

Wax and Wayne are probably some of my favorite characters. There is chemistry, humor, love of brotherhood. There is something so real, so intricately woven, that Wax and Wayne are dependent upon each other, even when they believe they are not.

And the addition of Marasai and MeLaan (pardon my spelling, I listened to this awesomeness) that rounds out this little crew. Some could say a crew reminiscent of that of the Survivor. Each with their own strength, each with their own weakness, each with their own heart and mind. This crew will battle something big and I can't wait to see it happen. Not because I want to lose any of these members, but because Sanderson knows how to write a battle scene.

Can I say that I loved (view spoiler)[meeting with TenSoon again. And talking with Harmony? Oh, it brings me back to those original books and makes me want to revisit them all over again. I want to watch as Sazed takes his place as Harmony, I want to watch as TenSoon disregards his Elders and makes a new path, I want to watch as Kelsier creates the perfect crew to overthrow The Lord Ruler. (hide spoiler)]

This is one of those rare times when I figured out something before it was actually revealed. I'm not sure why or what hit me to cause such a revelation within myself, but I did figure it out.
However, it was no less exciting or surprising when Wax and Wayne finally came to the same conclusion.

And what do I do now? The library has a waitlist 8 (I imagine this number was much more ridiculous when the book was released, but I didn't expect so many people to be listening to it now!) people deep and I need more Wax and Wayne. I need to know how Wax handles the aftermath of SoS. I need to know if he marries Steris. I need to know if something cool happens for Marasai. I also need to know what in the world is going on!

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Review: Dirty Talk

Dirty Talk by S.L. Scott
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved seeing Luke in Models On Top/Sweet Talk.

I knew I wanted his story as soon as he and Danny started talking about this mysterious "Jane."

I didn't know what I would be getting, but OMG! Luke Anders is one of those guys you want to see happy. No matter what it takes to get him there, you want him happy. You want to see him smile and laugh and have a good time. You want to see him love. You want to see him succeed.

Because he deserves it.

He's given the manwhore reputation a run for its money, but he's heartbroken and lost. He finds comfort in the temporary. He doesn't want anything serious and the one-night stands are typically very accommodating.

I mean, who wouldn't be? He's the Luke Anders.

I loved the book. I loved Luke and Janie. I loved seeing Danny again.

*I listened to the audio of this book. The narrators are well cast and play the characters very well. I love how they brought these characters to a new life that only audio can provide.


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Review: American King

American King by Sierra Simone
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Eleven days.
It took me eleven days to read this book.
Eleven days.

Eleven days where I hurt and cried and felt pain.
Eleven days when I felt unconditional love, devotion, and magic.
Eleven days where I was terrified I would be broken.

I was broken.
I was hurt.
I was in pain.
I was elated.
I was happy.
I was in love.

Eleven days where my mind, body, and soul were held captive.
Eleven days where my happiness, sadness, and contentment were handled by the King.
Eleven days where I fought, and bled, wanted, and needed more from my Prince.

Eleven days where the Queen ruled.

Should you read this book? Yes.
Should you savor this book? Yes.
Should you devour this book? Yes.

I'm not sure how you can both savor and devour a book, but make it happen.

Eleven days was too long.
Eleven days wasn't long enough.

The New Camelot is waiting.

#TeamEmbry #YesSir #YesMyKing #LittlePrince #Princess #KingArthur

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Review: Dirty Little Secret

Dirty Little Secret by Kendall Ryan
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

So, uh, why didn't someone tell me this would end the way it did? Where are all of my so-called friends who are there to protect me from things like this?

Because now I NEED book two, but I have no time to fit in a book. Well, I do, but I have a bajillion more books to read and no time to binge.
But I digress.

Gavin is the sexy man in the coffee shop that Emma Belle can't quit daydreaming about. In a rash move, he drops his card, but it can't be for her, can it? Or maybe it is. Should she pick it up and use it or leave it there?
Should she take control of the situation or leave it to fate?

And Gavin? Well, he's all alpha-goodness and he has that tall, dark, and handsome thing on lock. Pretty sure he's owning that market.
But then there's Conner. Oh, Conner Kingsley, the younger brother, the light-hearted, easy-going Kingsley.

How would one be able to choose between the dark, brooding man from the coffee shop and the light, care-free man, who happens to be her new employer?

Yeah, I wouldn't want to make that choice either.

So, three stars. I'm sure some of you are asking why.
Well, it's sexy and tempting and Gavin and Conner are all hot and alpha-y.
But, uh, I guess I don't have a great reason other than it didn't pull any big emotion from me.
Hot and bothered? Yep.
In love, swooning, and ready to get married? Not quite there yet.
Torn between two brothers? Yep.

But really, let's talk about the fabulousness of those narrators. I don't want to leave out the amazingly sexy Zachary Webber and the new to me, yet still awesome Megan Tusing. These two bring Emma, Conner, and Gavin to life.

You should go ahead and buy all the books if you buy this one. You're gonna want to see how it all plays out.

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Review: Villains Rule

Villains Rule by M.K. Gibson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Okay, so I have a secret love affair with fantasy. But it's a hit or miss love affair because fantasy requires dedication, perseverance, and the will and desire to finish something epic. So, that being said, I typically limit my fantasy novels because they're lengthy, time-consuming, and a huge commitment.

Villains Rule comes in just under ten hours, which is nothing in the grand scheme of fantasy. However, it made it that much more appealing. Throw in the fact that this is a story of villains and numerous fantasy realms, and the protagonist is speaking to the reader--Yes, he's speaking to YOU--and there wasn't a single part of me that could say no.

I'm always a fan of the anti-hero, but as The Shadow Master kindly points out, he is no anti-hero, he is a villain. THE Villain of all villains. Jackson Blackwell sets out on a great quest, although I'm not sure he realized that until he was pretty well into it. And that makes it even better.

How many pop culture references can you throw into a book before it gets old? No clue, honestly, because with every reference to Star Wars, LotR, a yellow-eyed demon, red haired river folk, dwarves, gods, elves, and any other fantasy character you can come up with, I found myself laughing hysterically. I was constantly trying to piece the references back to books I had read or books I had heard about.

But really, I enjoyed every single minute of this book. I was never bored or confused or left wanting more--unless you count when I got to the end, in which case I want more. MK Gibson, can you stretch this into a trilogy? ;-) The fans demand it! Well, this fan does. Quite frankly, I don't care if others want it, I just know that I do. So, please?

I'm gonna revisit this book soon. I'm telling all of my friends. Lover of fantasy or not, this book is for anyone looking for something funny. This is fantasy for the 21st century. It's fantasy for the new generation. Or at least for the generation who loves a good laugh.

And a good trope. Because we all know fantasy sticks to its tropes.

"This book was given to me for free at my request and I provided this voluntary review."




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Review: Work Me Up

Work Me Up by Sasha Burke
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the first time I've read Sasha Burke and I fell head over heels for her writing. I loved every minute of this book/novella. The characters, the not insta-insta love, the climbing, the push and pull. I loved it all.

So, Logan is sexy, rich, and a single dad. I love a single dad romance. I love one even more when he's the perfect dad ever.

Nicole is feisty, strong, independent, and all the things I wan't to be when I grow up. And she has caught Logan's attention.

The push and pull, the chemistry, the background, it all works.

I can't wait to read more by this author. This was the perfect. light read while between heavy, angsty books.

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Review: The Beauty and the Badass

The Beauty and the Badass by Lucy Felthouse
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I think I've found a new author to one-click. Lucy Felthouse hasn't disappointed me yet. Her stories are short, sweet, sexy, and fun. Each one containing sexy times, low-angst, and love.

The Beauty and the Badass managed to be the second book in a row I read that started off in a gym. Apparently working out and being all fit and awesome is in right now. Or maybe I'm choosing these books a reminder to myself that definition and energy aren't going to manifest themselves on my couch with a glass of wine in one had and a book in the other.

Anyway, short, sweet, sexy, and fun. That's what Lucy Felthouse delivers every single time. I think this is my third or fourth book by her and I really enjoyed it.

I listened to the audio of this and while the story was a typical Ms. Felthouse story, I found the narration to be a bit lacking. No fault of the author, just not my favorite narrator. I enjoyed her lovely accent though, I will say that. I just felt that the characters were lacking a little.

Coming in at just over an hour, The Beauty and the Badass is a quick listen. You should give it a go if you're looking for a sexy Viking and a Badass chick.

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Review: Resuscitate Me

Resuscitate Me by Leddy Harper
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

So, it's been a long time since I've read or listened to a single POV book. I didn't realize I was getting myself into one, but I almost didn't notice due to the excellent narration. Two narrators, each reading their respective characters. It made the story so much more. I liked hearing Carter Hastings. I liked hearing the dirty things he had to say. So, thank you Tor Thom, for an excellent male narration. And Charley Ongel, great as always.

Now, the book.

I'm a big fan of seeing things through. This book is one of those things I saw through till the very end. I made the point about a single POV earlier because I feel like this story could have been so much more if we knew what Carter was thinking. His behavior was all over the place, his attitude, the way he would get upset if our heroine wasn't where she said she'd be. He seemed to have a lot of insecurity issues.
There were several times when this annoyed me. When he turned cold and distant, I wanted to know why. I could only guess as to the reasons behind his actions, but if I had been Cara, I'd have walked.

Am I glad I finished the book? Yeah. I actually enjoyed it once they pulled their heads out of their asses. The characters were believable. They had their own flaws, they had their own issues, and they fought through those to be together.

Overall, 3 stars. I liked it, but it didn't pull any huge emotion from me.

*"This book was given to me for free at my request and I provided this voluntary review."

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Review: Playing the Rookie

Playing the Rookie by Rachelle Ayala
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

3.5 Stars

Baseball. A rookie pitcher. A job working Spring Training.
Yep. Sign me up.

I want this job. I want the rookie pitcher--although at this stage in my life, I should be looking for the veteran pitcher, or hell, the pitching coach (I'm looking at you Verlander, Kluber, and Calloway). Anyway, yes, I know actual pitchers and pitching coaches. Baseball and books. Two of my favorite things.
So, yes, this job. The pitcher. This sexy little novella. All the things i love in one spot.
Throw in some awesome narrators and I have my own little slice of heaven.

"This book was given to me for free at my request and I provided this voluntary review."

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