Thursday, December 26, 2019

2020 Reading Challenges


We're only a few days away from 2020 guys, which means one thing and one thing only: READING CHALLENGES. I've done reading challenges almost as long as I've been book blogging with various degrees of success. I'm very happy to say that I'll be doing reading challenges in 2020 too, and I'm already excited to start them. Let me show you which ones I'm signing up to. And remember, if you have any good reading challenges that you think I should sign up to, share them in the comments and I'll check them out! Without further ado, here's the reading challenges I plan on doing in 2020.

Friday, December 13, 2019

Blog Tour Book Review: The Darkest Assassin by Gena Showalter

We are beyond excited to be sharing this release from Gena Showalter with you today by participating in the blog tour! THE DARKEST ASSASSIN is part of her Lords of the Underworld series and it is releasing as part of 1001 Dark Nights. Check out an excerpt and book trailer from the title below. Click here to grab your copy now.

 

Purchase your copy of THE DARKEST ASSASSIN today!

Amazon US | Amazon UK | Amazon CA | Amazon AU

Author: Gena Showalter
Series: Lords of the Underworld #14.6
Audience: Over 18
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Publisher: Evil Eye Concepts, Incorporated
Release Date:  December 10th 2019
My Rating: 4 Cups
Source: InkSlinger PR
Blurb (from Goodreads):


From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Gena Showalter comes a new story in her Lords of the Underworld series…

Fox is a demon-possessed immortal with many talents.
Ability to open portals—check
Power to kill the most dangerous Sent Ones—check
Scare away any man who might want to date her—mate
Now, the keeper of Distrust has been marked for death, a winged assassin with rainbow-colored eyes tracking her every move, determined to avenge the males she accidentally decimated. If only she could control the desire to rip off his clothes…

Bjorn is a fierce warrior with many complications.
Tragic, torture-filled past—check
A wife he was forced to wed, who is draining his life force—check
Ever-intensifying desire for the enigmatic Fox—mate
Never has he hesitated to exterminate an evil being. Until now. The sharp-tongued female with a shockingly vulnerable heart tempts him in ways no one else ever has, threatening his iron control.

But, as Fate itself seems to conspire against the unlikely pair, both old and new enemies emerge. And Fox and Bjorn must fight to survive.

And learn to love…
Add THE DARKEST ASSASSIN to your Goodreads TBR here!

*Disclaimer: I received an eARC of this book from InkSlinger PR in exchange for an honest review. This does not influence my rating or the content of my review in any way.

**Disclaimer: This book contains mature content. As such my review my review may contain references to content intended for mature audiences only.

The newest installment in the Lords Of The Underworld series is here guys, and I. Am. Stoked! Any chance I have of going back to this wonderful world is something I shall grab with both hands (and feet...monkey style!). If you're a fan of this series, you're in for a wild ride. If not, let me tell you why you should put everything on hold and start reading this series right now.

Saturday, December 7, 2019

2019 Bookending Winter Day 6: A Very Potter Christmas!



Bookending Winter is  a wonderful month-long event created by Clo @ Cuppa Clo and Sam @ Fictionally Sam where each day has a different prompt for the participants to talk about.

Day 6 of Bookending Winter is here! Our new host is Tabatha @ Broken Soul reviews and her prompt is about Harry Potter. Can I screech in happiness now??
If you are anything like me, you have one healthy (or rather unhealthy) obsession with all things Harry Potter! Christmas/Winter time in Potter land has always been one of my favorites. It introduced us to Hogsmeade and opened up a door to tons of adventure for the crew. Today, we are taking a trip – right down to Hogsmeade, to grab ourselves some Butterbeer and talk about the upcoming Winter Ball! To get us in the Potter Winter Ball Spirit; there are some things I want to know about all of you!
It's no secret that I adore Harry Potter, flaws and all, so I am VERY excited to see what Tabatha has in store of us. Before we start, please remember to check out Tabatha's post first.

Wednesday, December 4, 2019

2019 Bookending Winter Day 4: Organizing Christmas Challenge



Bookending Winter is  a wonderful month-long event created by Clo @ Cuppa Clo and Sam @ Fictionally Sam where each day has a different prompt for the participants to talk about.

It's day 4 of the Bookending Winter event!! Laurie @ Laurie's Bookshelf is hosting today and her prompt of the day is Organizing Christmas Challenge. Here's more about today's prompt:
Uh oh, Christmas is just around the corner. Life happened and therefore you totally forgot to prepare yourself for the holiday. Answer the following questions and choose which character from books/movies/TV shows would help you to fulfill this task and help you prepare for Christmas.
Rules:
  • This is an originally created challenge, so please link back to the creator and this post.
  • Answer all the challenges!
  • Mention who challenged you to do this challenge.
  • Challenge at least three other bloggers.
  • Have fun!

Don't forget to check out Laurie's post about this prompt. Without further ado, let's get started!

Tuesday, December 3, 2019

Blogmas Day 3: Best Books...Of The Decade


According to Goodreads between 2010 and 2019 I read a little over 1000 books. That is something young Ruby never thought possible. Since we're close to the end of this decade (I'll let you guys add all the adjectives you want about this decade) I thought it would be fun to look back at the books I've read so far and see which ones stand out the most. I'm going to try really hard to pick one book per year, but we'll see how it all goes. Let's get started!

Book Review: Merry and Bright by Debbie Macomber

Merry and Bright by Debbie Macomber
Author: Debbie Macomber
Series: N/A
Audience: Over 18
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Publisher: Ballantine Books
Release Date: October 3rd 2017
My Rating: 3.5 Cups
Source: Won in a giveaway
Blurb (from Goodreads):
Merry Knight is pretty busy these days. She’s taking care of her family, baking cookies, decorating for the holidays, and hoping to stay out of the crosshairs of her stressed and by-the-book boss at the consulting firm where she temps. Her own social life is the last thing she has in mind, much less a man. Without her knowledge, Merry’s well-meaning mom and brother create an online dating profile for her—minus her photo—and the matches start rolling in. Initially, Merry is incredulous, but she reluctantly decides to give it a whirl.

Soon Merry finds herself chatting with a charming stranger, a man with similar interests and an unmistakably kind soul. Their online exchanges become the brightest part of her day. But meeting face-to-face is altogether different, and her special friend is the last person Merry expects—or desires. Still, sometimes hearts can see what our eyes cannot. In this satisfying seasonal tale, unanticipated love is only a click away.
*Disclaimer: I won an ARC of this book in a giveaway hosted by the author. I'm writing my review voluntarily, and my opinions and rating are not influenced by having won this book.

I've been meaning for years to try out one of Debbie Macomber's books, so I was very excited when I won an ARC two years ago. I wasn't really sure what the book was about, except that it was set around Christmas, and I love books set around that holiday. There is a good reason for why I held off on reading it for so long after reading the blurb though. One of my favorite movies growing up was You've Got Mail, which is a 90s romcom that I watched many many times over the years. This meant that I had very high expectations for this book, so I had to manage them a bit before picking up this book.

I'm very glad I waited to read this book, because it turned out to be a very enjoyable read, one I probably wouldn't have appreciated had I not managed my expectations.

2019 Bookending Winter Day 3: Blanket, Tea, Read!



Bookending Winter is  a wonderful month-long event created by Clo @ Cuppa Clo and Sam @ Fictionally Sam where each day has a different prompt for the participants to talk about.

It's day 3 of the Bookending Winter event!! Laurie @ Laurie's Bookshelf is hosting today and her prompt of the day is Book, Tea, Read!" or the books that get you in the winter/Christmas mood. People, I have a TON on books that get me in the mood for Christmas Don't forget to check out Laurie's post here. Without further ado, let's get started!

Monday, December 2, 2019

2019 Bookending Winter Day 2: Reflection Time



Bookending Winter is  a wonderful month-long event created by Clo @ Cuppa Clo and Sam @ Fictionally Sam where each day has a different prompt for the participants to talk about.

It's day 2 of the Bookending Winter event and today's host, Laurie @ Laurie's Bookshelf has a very interesting prompt. As she says, December is the perfect time to look back over how the year went, if we managed to hit the goals we set out for ourselves in January, and also set goals for the new year. Don't forget to check out Laurie's post here. Without further ado, let's get started!

Sunday, December 1, 2019

Blogmas Day 1: November Wrap-Up



It's December already. Can you guys believe it? Because I cannot wrap my head around the fact that there's only 31 days left of 2019. It seems like 2019 flew by me, and it took me completely by surprise. I'm going to do Blogmas this year (and unlike last year, this time I'll do the full month, I promise). I thought I'd start with a proper month wrap-up, because this has been one of my best reading months of the year, with over 20 books read. Let's dive right into it, shall we?

2019 Bookending Winter Day 1: Ways A Villain Could Ruin the Holiday Season



It's December 1st and that means it's time for Bookending Winter!! In case you don't know what Bookending Winter is, let me enlighten you. It's a wonderful month-long event created by Clo @ Cuppa Clo and Sam @ Fictionally Sam where each day has a different prompt for the participants to talk about. Basically awesomeness all around! And there's hosts, so you can not only do some blog hopping, but also discover new bloggers while you're at it, and since we're an amazing community, we need to all be friends and be merry. 'Tis the season, people!!!

The first host of this year's event is Sophia @ Bookwyrming Thoughts and her prompt is Ways  A Villain Could Ruin the Holiday Season. Let me tell you, these villains have tremendous power to destroy all nice things, including the Holiday Season. Let me tell you how they could ruin mine.

Audiobook Review: Kulti by Mariana Zapata



 Kulti by Mariana ZapataAuthor: Mariana Zapata
Series: N/A
Narrator: Callie Dalton
Audience: +18
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Sports Romance
Publisher: Tantor Audio
Length: 16 hours and 13 minutes
Release Date: July 28th 2015 (first published March 20th 2015)
My Rating: 5 Cups
Source: Audible
Blurb (from Goodreads):


“Trust me, I’ve wanted to punch you in the face a time or five.”

When the man you worshipped as a kid becomes your coach, it’s supposed to be the greatest thing in the world. Keywords: supposed to.

It didn't take a week for 27-year-old Sal Casillas to wonder what she'd seen in the international soccer icon - why she'd ever had his posters on her wall or ever envisioned marrying him and having super-playing soccer babies.


Sal had long ago gotten over the worst non-break-up in the history of imaginary relationships with a man who hadn't known she'd existed. So she isn't prepared for this version of Reiner Kulti who shows up to her team's season: a quiet, reclusive shadow of the explosive, passionate man he'd once been.
I've been meaning to read Mariana Zapata for a while now. In fact, she's the author that finally convinced me to try out the Audible Escape subscription I now love so much. Because I didn't know where to start, since I've heard a lot of good stuff about her books, I pestered my dear friend Sam from Fictionally Sam to point me in the right direction and Kulti was the second book on her list I think. Since it was also the first book that I noticed by her on AE, I decided to go with it. And let me tell you, it was glorious.

Book Review: A Holiday By Gaslight by Mimi Matthews

Author: Mimi Matthews
Narrator: Alex Wyndham
Series: N/A
Audience:  +18
Genre: Historical Romance, Christmas Romance
Publisher: Perfectly Proper Press
Release Date: November 13th 2018
My Rating: 4 Cups
Source: Netgalley
Blurb (from Goodreads):
A Courtship of Convenience

Sophie Appersett is quite willing to marry outside of her class to ensure the survival of her family. But the darkly handsome Mr. Edward Sharpe is no run-of-the-mill London merchant. He’s grim and silent. A man of little emotion—or perhaps no emotion at all. After two months of courtship, she’s ready to put an end to things.

A Last Chance for Love

But severing ties with her taciturn suitor isn’t as straightforward as Sophie envisioned. Her parents are outraged. And then there’s Charles Darwin, Prince Albert, and that dratted gaslight. What’s a girl to do except invite Mr. Sharpe to Appersett House for Christmas and give him one last chance to win her? Only this time there’ll be no false formality. This time they’ll get to know each other for who they really are.
*Disclaimer: I received an eARC from Netgalley and Perfectly Proper Press in exchange for an honest review. This does not influence my rating or the content of my review in any way.

The first thing that caught my eye was the cover. How could I ignore it, when it's so pretty? The next thing that made me want to read this book was the fact that it was not only a Christmas story, but a historical romance one. So basically you have the two best things in the world put together. I've never read Mimi Matthews before, but I absolutely loved this introduction into her world and I believe I shall dive into her backlist in the upcoming year.

Saturday, November 30, 2019

Book Review: Gravemaidens by Kelly Coon

Author: Kelly Coon
Series: Gravemaidens #1
Audience: Young Adult
Genre: Fantasy
Publisher: Delacorte Press
Release Date: October 29th 2019
My Rating: 5 Cups
Source: Publisher
Blurb (from Goodreads):
The start of a fierce fantasy duology about three maidens who are chosen for their land's greatest honor...and one girl determined to save her sister from the grave.

In the walled city-state of Alu, Kammani wants nothing more than to become the accomplished healer her father used to be before her family was cast out of their privileged life in shame.

When Alu's ruler falls deathly ill, Kammani’s beautiful little sister, Nanaea, is chosen as one of three sacred maidens to join him in the afterlife. It’s an honor. A tradition. And Nanaea believes it is her chance to live an even grander life than the one that was stolen from her.

But Kammani sees the selection for what it really is—a death sentence.

Desperate to save her sister, Kammani schemes her way into the palace to heal the ruler. There she discovers more danger lurking in the sand-stone corridors than she could have ever imagined and that her own life—and heart—are at stake. But Kammani will stop at nothing to dig up the palace’s buried secrets even if it means sacrificing everything…including herself.

*Disclaimer: I received an eARC of this book from Penguin Random House in exchange for an honest review. This does not influence my rating or the content of my review in any way.

Wow. Gravemaidens just blew my mind people! This was a buddy read with two very dear friends, Haley and Kal, and let me tell you something. If you could see our group DMs while reading this book, you would all know that we were insanely in love with this story. Although I haven't read that many YA books this year, I can tell you right now that Gravemaidens is probably one of my favorites this year.

Sunday, November 24, 2019

Book Review: Cross Breed by Lora Leigh

Author: Lora Leigh
Series: Breeds #23
Audience:  +18
Genre: Paranormal Romance, Erotic Romance
Publisher: Berkley Books
Release Date: September 25th 2018
My Rating: 4.5 Cups
Source: Own Copy
Blurb (from Goodreads):
The Breeds are humans altered before conception with the DNA of the predators of Earth. But although they all carry the genetic material of beasts within them, Cassandra Sinclair stands apart. A unique mix of wolf, coyote and human, she is revered by many—but preyed upon by others. She is fiercely protected by her community…but no one manages to stop her when she slips away one day to offer her body in exchange for her sister’s safety.

The man she succumbs to surprises her by unleashing her inner animal in ways she never dreamed possible—and provokes her deep, furious rage. To Cassie’s shock, he is the mate she has long awaited. She may never be able to forgive his deception. Still, as dangerous enemies track her, and as the threat of all-out war between Breeds and the humans who despise them hovers in the air, they must join forces and hold fast to each other.

But the passionate union between them holds a potential that could change the world—and some will do anything to stop it…

*Disclaimer: This book contains mature content. As a result, my review may contain references to content intended for mature audiences only.

**Disclaimer: My review won't contain spoilers about Cross Breed, but it probably will include spoilers for previous books. With this being book 23 (actually 33 if you count the novellas) in the Breeds series, spoilers cannot be avoided.  

I did it, guys. I finally did it!!! I read Cross Breed!! Let me tell you, it wasn't easy convincing myself to read this book. We all know I have a fear of reading my most anticipated books (which I call unicorns, by the way), so I decided to read this during a sleepless night this week. Guys, the wait of over 10 years for this book was worth it. And more.

Tuesday, November 19, 2019

Blog Tour Book Review: From Flame and Ash by Carrie Ann Ryan


Author: Carrie Ann Ryan
Series: Elements of Five #2
Audience: YA
Genre: Fantasy
Publisher: Self Published
Release Date: November 19th 2019
My Rating: 4.5 Cups
Source: Give Me Books Promotions
Blurb (from Goodreads):
NYT Bestselling Author Carrie Ann Ryan continues Lyric’s epic journey in this spellbinding sequel to From Breath and Ruin.

Lyric lost her past, her friends, and even her connections to both worlds when she found out about the Maison realm and her calling. But now she must put that aside and travel back to the Maison realm to continue her training as the Spirit Priestess. Only her journey isn’t to Rhodes and those she fought alongside before. This time, Easton and the other Obscurité warriors will stand by her side as she tries to unlock her final three elements.

However, just as she starts to learn more about what she’s been prophesied to do, a Seer’s wish and the calling of the Lumière kingdom calls her forth, thrusting Lyric into another journey where she must trust those on both sides of the age-old war to survive…and keep those she loves safe.

*Disclaimer: I received an eARC of this book from Give Me Books Promotions in exchange for an honest review. This does not influence my rating or the content of my review in any way.

I have been waiting for this book for what felt like a very, very long time. I'm always excited for Carrie Ann Ryan's books, though, so it shouldn't be such a huge surprise to anyone. But I truly loved reading about Lyric and her journey in the previous book (and you can read my review for From Breath and Ruin here if you want to) and I was very interested in seeing what happens next for her and her friends.

Thursday, November 14, 2019

Blog Tour Book Review: Sirens In Bliss by Lexi Blake









Author: Lexi Blake
Series: Texas Sirens #7.5, Nights in Bliss, Colorado #10
Audience:  +18
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Erotic Romance
Publisher: DLZ Entertainment, LLC
Release Date: November 12th 2019
My Rating: 5 Cups
Source: Social Butterfly PR
Blurb (from Goodreads):
Re-released in a second edition with new content.

What happens after happily ever after?

It’s the event of the year. The wedding of Leo and Wolf to their beautiful sub, Shelley McNamara, has all of Bliss up in arms—and makes everyone think about love and marriage and family.

Wolf and Leo have to deal with the sudden reappearance of their father. Rafe Kincaid is handed an opportunity that might take him and his family away from Bliss. Aidan, Lexi, and Lucas O’Malley find themselves at a crossroads in their marriage. And Stefan Talbot must face his biggest fear—possibly losing his wife in childbirth.

So come to the Feed Store Church, pick a seat, and enjoy the chaos as all your favorite characters from Texas Sirens and Nights in Bliss, Colorado, come together for one eventful weekend.

And some of them may never be the same again.

Note: This is a reunion book, which shares an overall story arc and many crossover characters with the Texas Sirens and Nights in Bliss series. This is not a stand-alone.
*Disclaimer: I received an eARC of his book from Social Butterfly PR in exchange for an honest review. This does not influence my rating or the content of my review in any way.

**Disclaimer: This book contains mature content. As a result, my review may contain references to content intended for mature audiences only.

I am one of those readers that will always wonder what happens after a book ends. What happens to the characters? Are their lives fairy tale perfect, or do they still struggle with things, like real people do? Do couples have any unresolved issues left, or are they going to be in their honeymoon phase for the rest of their lives? I always wonder that, so whenever an author writes those types of stories for the characters I love, I will forever jump on the chance to read them. And the fact that it's Lexi Blake that does it this time promises a lot of fun shenanigans and some tears, and I'm even happier.

Sunday, November 10, 2019

Mini Reviews: Sweet Child O' Mine, Adored, and Luscious by Lexi Blake

I have made it no secret that I'm obsessed with Lexi Blake, my dear fellow readers, so does it really surprise you that I'm dedicating an entire post of mini-reviews just for her novellas? No? Okay then, we're off to a good start!

Without further ado, let's get started! The books featured in today's mini review sessions are: Sweet Child O' Mine, Adored, and Luscious.

*Disclaimer: I received e-copies of these books from the author in exchange for an honest review. This does not influence my rating or the content of my reviews in any way.

**Disclaimer: These books contains mature content. As such, my review may contain references to this content.

Tuesday, October 29, 2019

Comic Book Tuesday: Paradox Girl Volume 1 by Cayti Bourquin, Yishan Li

Author: Cayti Bourquin, Yishan Li
Series: Paradox Girl
Audience: +16
Genre: Graphic Novel,
Publisher: Image Comics
Release Date: June 4th 2019
My Rating: 4.5 Cups
Source: Image Comics
Blurb (from Goodreads):
As a hero with the power to go anywhere and anywhen, Paradox Girl has made an absolute mess of her own life. She's changed history so often that isn't even sure who she is anymore. Join her in this superhero comedy as she tries to make sense of her chaotic existence, chases bizzare whims, and maybe even finds time to save the day once in a while.
Collecting the first cycle of six issues of Paradox Girl, in which new writer Cayti Bourquin playfully explores questions of time, meaning and identity. A book which rewards multiple readings as PG jumps from panel to panel, weaving a complex tangle of timelines.

Collects PARADOX GIRL #1-6

*Disclaimer: I received an eARC of this book from Image Comics in exchange for an honest review. This does not influence my rating or the content of my review in any way.

It's been a while since I read a comic book I wanted to talk to everyone about, really. Not because I haven't read any comic books until now, but because I just didn't feel like I had something to say. Well people, Paradox Girl gave me plenty to say and I am happy about that.

I picked up this book because I was curious. The cover had me do a double take, because I wasn't sure if I was seeing things or if that truly was the same character in different outfits. After reading just a few pages, I was hooked.

Monday, October 28, 2019

Book Review: Beauty by Sophie Oak


Author: Lexi Blake
Series: A Faery Story #3
Audience:  +18
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Publisher: DLZ Entertainment, LLC
Release Date: October 29th 2019
My Rating: 5 Cups
Source: Social Butterfly PR
Blurb (from Goodreads):

Re-released in a second edition. Re-edited but no substantial changes.

The princess in the tower

In one horrifying night, Bronwyn Finn lost her family, her kingdom, and the princes who had haunted her dreams for years. Left alone, years pass as she fights for survival and craves revenge against the uncle who took everything from her. But she’s never forgotten her Dark Ones. Now she hides along with her guardian, but the war rages ever closer.

Two dark princes

A tragedy marred Lach and Shim’s lives. The future kings of the Unseelie Fae are obsessed with finding their promised wife—Bronwyn. Lach and Shim have never stopped believing that Bronwyn is their mate. She is the bond that connects the halves of their shared soul.

A destiny that will change a kingdom

With the blessing of the renegade kings, Beck and Cian Finn, Lach and Shim begin a dangerous quest to find their bride before Torin and his hags take her life.

Across two planes, a war will rage. Lives will be lost. Love will be found. And the Seelie Fae will welcome their true kings home.

*Disclaimer: I received an eARC of his book from Social Butterfly PR in exchange for an honest review. This does not influence my rating or the content of my review in any way.

**Disclaimer: This book contains mature content. As a result, my review may contain references to content intended for mature audiences only.

I was not prepared for this ending, guys. I am constantly finding more and more reasons to love Lexi Blake, and Beauty just made me love her stories more. There are so many great details in this story and we get a lot of questions answered.

Monday, October 21, 2019

Blog Tour Book Review: Reaper by Larissa Ione


Author: Larissa Ione
Series: Demonica Underworld #9, Demonica #19
Audience: +18
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Publisher: Evil Eye Concepts, Incorporated
Release Date: October 15th 2019
My Rating: 5 Cups
Source: Social Butterfly OR
Blurb (from Goodreads):
THE DEMONICA SERIES RETURNS...

He is the Keeper of Souls. Judge, jury, and executioner. He is death personified.

He is the Grim Reaper.

A fallen angel who commands the respect of both Heaven and Hell, Azagoth has presided over his own underworld realm for thousands of years. As the overlord of evil souls, he maintains balance crucial to the existence of life on Earth and beyond. But as all the realms gear up for the prophesied End of Days, the ties that bind him to Sheoul-gra have begun to chafe.

Now, with his beloved mate and unborn child the target of an ancient enemy, Azagoth will stop at nothing to save them, even if it means breaking blood oaths and shattering age-old alliances.

Even if it means destroying himself and setting the world on fire…
*Disclaimer: I received an eARC from Social Butterfly PR in exchange for an honest review. This does not influence my rating or the content of my review in any way.


**Disclaimer: This book contains mature content. As a result, my review may contain references to content intended for mature audiences only.

***Disclaimer: My review won't contain spoilers about Reaper, but it probably will include spoilers for previous books. With this being book 19 in the Demonica series, spoilers cannot be avoided.  

Finally, a full length novel for Azagoth! It's what I've been hoping to get for years now and the time is finally here. I've been reading this series since I was in college, over 9 years ago, and I can honestly say that it's always a pleasure to come back to it and read new stories and see the world get bigger and bigger and see the characters evolve. Reaper changes things in a way I didn't anticipate, and let me tell you guys, it was a roller-coaster.

Thursday, October 17, 2019

Blog tour Book Review: The Rebel Queen by Jeana E. Mann



The Rebel Queen by Jeana E. Mann is LIVE!!!


Author: Jeana E. Mann
Series: The Rebel Queen Duet #2
Audience: +18
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Publisher: Self published
Release Date: October 15th 2019
My Rating: 4.5 Cups
Source: Wildfire Marketing Solutions
Blurb (from Goodreads):

“Shall we begin?” When spoken by my new husband, these three little words fill me with terror and anticipation.

In private, King Henry rules my body like he rules his country—with unrelenting control and passion. I crave his orders, his punishment, his commands. Outside the bedroom, we’re strangers caught in a web of lies and decadence.

Our marriage is a sham, a business arrangement devised to save my life and secure his crown. He doesn’t love me. He loves my body, controlling it, shaming it, worshipping it. To survive the dangers at court, I need to be smart, but it’s hard to think straight with a man like Henry between my legs.

Each night, he locks the bedroom door, determined to teach me a new lesson. Obedience, patience, trust. I lie awake in bed waiting for the sound of his footsteps and the latest installment in pleasure and pain. My heart pounds when the hinges creak and his broad shoulders block the door. I’m not ready, but I can’t wait to feel his hands on me. He shoves his bowtie in my mouth, binds my hands to the headboard, and whispers in my ear…

“Shall we begin?”


From USA Today bestselling author Jeana E. Mann comes this dark, contemporary romance filled with twists, turns, and unprecedented heat.

*Disclaimer: I received an eARC of his book from Wildfire Marketing Solutions in exchange for an honest review. This does not influence my rating or the content of my review in any way.

**Disclaimer: This book contains mature content. As a result, my review may contain references to content intended for mature audiences only.

Everly and Henry's story concludes in The Rebel Queen and I have to say, I was surprised by how it ended. We get to see how they adjust to married life, how Henry becomes a king, and how Everly grows into her role as a royal consort and queen. So it was the perfect conclusion for the duet.

Tuesday, October 15, 2019

Book Review: Beast by Lexi Blake



Author: Lexi Blake
Series: A Faery Story #2
Audience:  +18
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Publisher: DLZ Entertainment, LLC
Release Date: October 15th 2019
My Rating: 4.5 Cups
Source: Social Butterfly PR
Blurb (from Goodreads):

Re-released in a second edition. Re-edited but no substantial changes.

A playboy who needs to grow up

Fresh from his latest tabloid scandal, vampire playboy Dante Dellacourt has been given an ultimatum. Either he takes a consort and settles down, or his family will disown him. Unwilling to lose everything he has, he reluctantly agrees to find a wife. Marriage is just another kind of contract, after all. No one said anything about love being a part of the bargain.

An outcast who has only known hardship

Exiled by her pack, Kaja is a werewolf without a home. Her life was never easy in the frozen tundra she grew up in, but it was familiar. Waking up in a foreign landscape, surrounded by bright lights, loud noises, and far too many people has left her overwhelmed. Frightened and with no one to trust, she savagely fights to get free of this strange new world.

A passion strong enough to change them both

Called to defend the gnomes of the marketplace, Dante is almost blinded by the radiant light coming off the fierce werewolf. Kaja glows like no consort he has ever seen. Gorgeous and wild, she calls to him in ways he had not dreamed possible. For Kaja, she finds in Dante a man unlike any she has ever known. They could not be more different, but she finds him irresistible.

In order to claim his werewolf bride, Dante must first discover how to overcome their differences. Will he tame his ferocious beauty, or will she unleash his inner beast?

*Disclaimer: I received an eARC of his book from Social Butterfly PR in exchange for an honest review. This does not influence my rating or the content of my review in any way.

**Disclaimer: This book contains mature content. As a result, my review may contain references to content intended for mature audiences only.

Is it any surprise to anyone at this point that I'm loving Lexi Blake's newest release, or in this case re-
release? Because I feel like I should mention this right at the very start: I loved this story. Not only do we get more of Blake's paranormal stories, but we get to find small connections between her series, that I absolutely love seeing.

Friday, October 11, 2019

Blog Tour Book Review: The Widow Of Rose House by Diana Biller


Author: Diana Biller
Series: Stand-alone
Audience:  +18
Genre: Historical Romance
Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin
Release Date: October 8th 2019
My Rating: 4 Cups
Source: Publisher
Blurb (from Goodreads):
A young widow restores a dilapidated mansion with the assistance of a charming, eccentric genius, only to find the house is full of dangerous secrets in this effervescent Gilded Age debut novel

It's 1875, and Alva Webster has perfected her stiff upper lip after three years of being pilloried in the presses of two continents over fleeing her abusive husband. Now his sudden death allows her to return to New York to make a fresh start, restoring Liefdehuis, a dilapidated Hyde Park mansion, and hopefully her reputation at the same time. However, fresh starts aren't as easy as they seem, as Alva discovers when stories of a haunting at Liefdehuis begin to reach her. But Alva doesn't believe in ghosts. So when the eccentric and brilliant professor, Samuel Moore, appears and informs her that he can get to the bottom of the mystery that surrounds Liefdehuis, she turns him down flat. She doesn't need any more complications in her life―especially not a handsome, convention-flouting, scandal-raising one like Sam.

Unfortunately, though Alva is loath to admit it, Sam, a pioneer in electric lighting and a member of the nationally-adored Moore family of scientists, is the only one who can help. Together, the two delve into the tragic secrets wreathing Alva's new home while Sam attempts to unlock Alva's history―and her heart.

Set during the Gilded Age in New York City, The Widow of Rose House is a gorgeous debut by Diana Biller, with a darkly Victorian Gothic flair and an intrepid and resilient American heroine guaranteed to delight readers.

*Disclaimer: I received an eARC of his book from St. Martin's in exchange for an honest review. This does not influence my rating or the content of my review in any way.

**Disclaimer: This book contains mature content. As a result, my review may contain references to content intended for mature audiences only.

Trigger Warnings: Physical and Mental Domestic Abuse


I'm finally ready for some spooky reads, and what better way to start than with this fantastic debut? I was very happy to read this book since I love stories about haunted houses and I'm always happy to read historical romances, as we already know.

Monday, October 7, 2019

Cover Reveal: Long Lost by Lexi Blake

Long Lost - CR banner.jpg

Lexi Blake has set up shop on the intersection of suspenseful and sexy, and I never want to leave.”— Laurelin Paige, New York Times bestselling author 

 

Long Lost, an all-new sexy and action packed installment in the Masters and Mercenaries: The Forgotten Series from New York Times bestselling author Lexi Blake, is coming February 4th and we have the steamy cover! 

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A stolen past
The only thing Tucker remembers of his past is pain. Used in a doctor’s evil experiments, his memories and identity were erased, and his freedom taken. He believed his nightmare was over when he was liberated by the men and women of McKay-Taggart, until he heard the name Steven Reasor. The idea that he could have been involved in the terrible experiments that cost his “brothers” everything crushed him. A desperate attempt to force him to remember the truth almost cost him his life. Now his world is in chaos and his only path to finally uncover the truth and atone for his sins leads to Veronica Croft.
A painful present
Veronica “Roni” Croft knew Dr. Steven Reasor was bad for her, but she also saw a side of the man that no one else knew. Even as she began to believe their employer was hiding something sinister, she was drawn to him like a moth to a flame. Their affair was passionate and intense, but also fraught with danger. When he disappeared under mysterious circumstances, she took her first chance to run and never looked back. She has stayed hidden ever since, running from forces she knows are too powerful to overcome. But now the man she believed was dead, the man she mourned, has returned and needs her help.
A dangerous future
As Tucker and Roni unravel the secrets of his past, a dark force rises and threatens to destroy them. Their only chance for survival will require them to join forces with the Lost Boys’ worst enemy. Only together can they finally unlock Tucker’s past. But as Tucker’s memories begin to come back, will it free them both or tear them apart forever?

Long Lost - PO.jpg
Pre-order your copy today! 
Amazon Worldwide: http://mybook.to/LongLostLB
Google Play: http://bit.ly/2UcX9FL
Amazon Paperback: https://amzn.to/2L3PuXb
Add to GoodReads: http://bit.ly/2LemTxu
   
About Lexi Blake
New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Lexi Blake lives in North Texas with her husband, three kids, and the laziest rescue dog in the world. She began writing at a young age, concentrating on plays and journalism. It wasn’t until she started writing romance that she found success. She likes to find humor in the strangest places. Lexi believes in happy endings no matter how odd the couple, threesome or foursome may seem.

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Connect with Lexi
Stay up to date with Lexi by joining her mailing list: 

Sunday, September 29, 2019

Blog Tour Book Review: When The Marquess Was Mine by Caroline Linden


Author: Caroline Linden
Series: The Wagers of Sin #3
Audience:  +18
Genre: Historical Romance
Publisher: Avon
Release Date: September 24th 2019
My Rating: 4.5 Cups
Source: Publisher
Blurb (from Goodreads):
In the game of love…

Georgiana Lucas despises the arrogant and cruel Marquess of Westmorland even before learning that he's won the deed to her friend Kitty's home in a card game. Still, Georgiana assures Kitty the marquess wouldn't possibly come all the way to Derbyshire to throw them out—until he shows up, bloody and unconscious. Fearing that Kitty would rather see him die, Georgiana blurts out that he's her fiancé. She'll nurse the hateful man back to health and make him vow to leave and never return. The man who wakes up, though, is nothing like the heartless rogue Georgiana thought she knew…

You have to risk it all

He wakes up with no memory of being assaulted—or of who he is. The bewitching beauty tending him so devotedly calls him Rob and claims she's his fiancée even as she avoids his touch. Though he can't remember how he won her hand, he's now determined to win her heart. But as his memory returns and the truth is revealed, Rob must decide if the game is up—or if he'll take a chance on a love that defies all odds.
*Disclaimer: I received an eARC of his book from Avon Books in exchange for an honest review. This does not influence my rating or the content of my review in any way.

**Disclaimer: This book contains mature content. As a result, my review may contain references to content intended for mature audiences only.

This was my first book by Caroline Linden and what an introduction this was. We know by now that I love historical romance, so of course I was going to love this book as well, but this book was truly special.

Friday, September 27, 2019

Blog Tour Book Review: Wrapped Up In You by Jill Shalvis


 Wrapped Up In You by Jill Shalvis
Author: Jill Shalvis
Series: Heartbreaker Bay #8
Audience: +18
Genre: Contemporary Romance 
Publisher: Avon
Release Date: September 24th 2019
My Rating: 5 Cups
Source: Social Butterfly PR
Blurb (from Goodreads):
It’s love. Trust me.

After a lifetime on the move, Ivy Snow is an expert in all things temporary—schools, friends, and way too many Mr. Wrongs. Now that she owns a successful taco truck in San Francisco and an apartment to call home, Ivy’s reinvented life is on solid ground. And she’s guarded against anything that can rock it. Like the realities of a past she’s worked hard to cover up. And especially Kel O’Donnell. Too hot not to set off alarms, he screams temporary. If only his whispers weren’t so delightfully naughty and irresistible.

Kel, an Idaho sheriff and ranch owner, is on vacay, but Ivy’s a spicy reason to give his short-terms plans a second thought. Best of all, she’s a tonic for his untrusting heart, burned once and still in repair. But when Ivy’s past intrudes on a perfect romance, Kel fears that everything she’s told him has been a perfect lie. Now, if only Ivy’s willing to share, Kel will fight for a true love story.
*Disclaimer: I received an eARC of his book from Social Butterfly PR in exchange for an honest review. This does not influence my rating or the content of my review in any way.

**Disclaimer: This book contains mature content. As a result, my review may contain references to content intended for mature audiences only.

Another great story from Jill Shalvis. I am spoiled, people. I'm expecting greatness from this author, and this is what I get all the time from her. And just in time to get me in the mood for Christmas romances!

Tuesday, September 24, 2019

Book Review: Seduced By A Demon King by Felicity Heaton

Author: Felicity Heaton
Series: Eternal Mates #17
Audience: +18
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Publisher: Self Published
Release Date: September 24th 2019
My Rating: 4.5 Cups
Source: Felicity Heaton
Blurb (from Goodreads):
Saddled with a crown he never wanted, King Tegan of the Second Realm of demons is a warrior born for war stuck ruling in a time of peace, bound by the pact that cost his brother his life. Chafed by the ties that have held him shackled to his throne for the last thousand years, Tegan plans an escape from his prison—one stolen night meant to give him a taste of freedom, but one that will lead him to the greatest battle of his life.

A fight to claim the heart of a bewitching fae female who might be his fated mate.

According to many in her clan, and the idiotic incubi who infest the fae town where she lives, Suki puts the suck in succubus. Down on her luck, and in danger of being kicked out of the family she loves, she’s determined to prove her worth by bagging and tagging a powerful male. When she sets eyes on a mysterious, panty-melting demon warrior in a nightclub, things finally seem to be going her way, but his shadowed aura and guardedness warns he won’t be an easy mark.
Seducing him is going to be the fight of her life.

When the battle is done, will the victor have the forever they want, or will this war cost them both everything?

Grab your copy today and step into a passionate, lush, and powerful paranormal romance series packed with dark elves, vampires, demons, fae, shifters and angels from New York Times and USA Today Best-Selling Paranormal Romance Author Felicity Heaton.
*Disclaimer: I received an eARC of this book from Felicity Heaton in exchange for an honest review. This does not influence my rating or the content of my review in any way.

**Disclaimer: This book contains mature content. As such, my review may contain references to subjects intended for a mature audience only.

Yet another great addition to the Eternal Mates series! Have I mentioned I am growing to love this series yet? Because I am. I love the idea of fates mates, and this series feeds that need. This time it's a demon king and a succubus to find their happily-ever-after and I loved their story.

Sunday, September 22, 2019

Blog Tour Book Review: Frost And Flame by Gena Showalter

Author: Gena Showalter
Series: Gods of War #2
Audience: +18
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Publisher: HQN Books
Release Date: September 17th 2019
My Rating: 4.5 Cups
Source: InkSlinger PR
Blurb (from Goodreads):
From Gena Showalter, the New York Times bestselling author of the Lords of the Underworld saga, comes Frost and Flame , the second book in the scorching paranormal romance series Gods of War.

Bane of Adwaeweth is the most feared immortal warrior in All War history. Possessed by a bloodthirsty beast, he will stop at nothing to win. Then he meets irresistible Nola Lee. He hates the power she wields over him, but she alone can rain vengeance upon his wife’s killer.

Unaware of her destiny to rule as queen of beasts, Nola battles illness, addiction and vulnerability. With Bane, however, she experiences pleasure for the first time, and only wants more. But being with him comes with a terrible price.

With enemies lurking around every corner, Bane and Nola must fight to survive. But time is running out, and neither can resist the sizzling attraction blazing between them. Will their romance save the beast and his beauty, or destroy everything they’ve come to love?

*Disclaimer: I received an eARC of his book from Wildfire Marketing Solutions in exchange for an honest review. This does not influence my rating or the content of my review in any way.

**Disclaimer: This book contains mature content. As a result, my review may contain references to content intended for mature audiences only.

Ever since I read Shadow and Ice last year I've been waiting for this book. It's no secret that I love Gena Showalter, so it should be that big of a surprise to hear that I absolutely loved this book with all my heart. Because I did. I totally, totally did. Let me tell you all about it!

Thursday, September 19, 2019

Blog Tour Book Review: The Royal Arrangement by Jeana E. Mann


The Royal Arrangement by Jeana E. Mann is LIVE!

Delicious, intoxicating, full of feels, and promises to be your next addiction. ~ Angie’s Dreamy Reads

Author: Jeana E. Mann
Series: The Rebel Queen Duet #1
Audience: +18
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Publisher: Self published
Release Date: September 17th 2019
My Rating: 4.5 Cups
Source: Wildfire Marketing Solutions
Blurb (from Goodreads):

A billionaire prince searches for a new wife in this intriguing tale of power and seduction from USA Today bestselling author Jeana E. Mann.

When I walk into a room, people look twice. Once because I’m the Crown Prince of Androvia, and twice because I’m that guy—the one who makes your panties wet with just a smile. My life is grand until the unexpected death

A chance encounter with the daughter of my sworn enemy changes everything. The first time I saw her, she was chained to a dungeon wall. The second time I saw her, I took her to my bed. The third time, I proposed marriage. If she accepts, I’ll rule her body the same way I intend to rule my kingdom—with an iron hand and no mercy. The stakes are high for both of us. If she turns me down, I could lose the throne to my traitorous uncle. Even worse, if she accepts, I might lose my heart.

Lies, seduction, and the struggle for a kingdom will heat up your e-reader.

Grab this page-turning contemporary royalty romance today.
*Disclaimer: I received an eARC of his book from Wildfire Marketing Solutions in exchange for an honest review. This does not influence my rating or the content of my review in any way.

**Disclaimer: This book contains mature content. As a result, my review may contain references to content intended for mature audiences only.

This is my first Jeana E. Mann book and let me tell you people, this is such a good book to start my journey into her worlds. I'm a sucker for a good marriage of convenience story, and I also love stories where a character pursues someone because they're related to their biggest enemy. So I knew from the start that I was going to enjoy this book. I am happy to say I was very right.

Monday, September 16, 2019

Blog Tour Book Review: Back In Bliss by Lexi Blake

Back in Bliss, an all-new sexy romance in the Nights in Bliss, Colorado Series from New York Times bestselling author Lexi Blake writing as Sophie Oak is available now!

 Back in Bliss by Lexi Blake
Author: Lexi Blake
Series: Nights in Bliss, Colorado #9
Audience: +18
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Romantic Suspense
Publisher: DLZ Entertainment, LLC
Release Date: September 10th 2019
My Rating: 5 Cups
Source: Social Butterfly PR
Blurb (from Goodreads):
Logan Green is back in Bliss, but only for a few weeks to help out at the sheriff’s office. Everything changes when Seth Stark strolls into town with Georgia Dawson on his arm.

Seth’s arrival is anything but a happy accident. He always dreamed of a big house on the river and a wife he could share with his best friend, Logan. After building a software empire, his only goal has been to make that dream come true. He just needed the perfect woman.

Georgia is still haunted by the dark, troubled man who saved her life. She can’t get Logan out of her head. Her boss brought her to Bliss to help him decorate his new summer home, but when Logan Green walks through the door she discovers Seth has something different in mind.

Seth has a plan for their mutual happily ever after, but he never dreamed that coming home would put all their lives in danger.

*Disclaimer: I received an eARC of his book from Social Butterfly PR in exchange for an honest review. This does not influence my rating or the content of my review in any way.

**Disclaimer: This book contains mature content. As a result, my review may contain references to content intended for mature audiences only.

Ever since I finished this book I haven't been able to stop smiling, while at the same time feeling a bit sad and on the verge of tears. I can't stop thinking about the dedications at the start of this book, which kinda makes me want to cry more than it makes me want to smile. I've come to love this town and the weird people living in it, and it's going to be very hard to say goodbye to them after the next book.

We finally get some questions answered, questions that I myself have had for years. Seth, Logan and Georgia had the perfect story, and if you've been following this series from the start, then you probably also know you're in for some heartache as well.

Wednesday, September 11, 2019

Wednesday Chatter: 5 Things I Want To Read About


Wednesday Chatter is a weekly feature at Ruby's Books where we'll be talking about anything and everything related to books and reading. Click here if you want to see what we talked about in the previous weeks

WARNING: Some bad words might be used in the following post. Don't say I didn't warn you!



Hello my fellow book lovers! Last year as you know Clo and Sam hosted Blogoween, an awesome month-long blogging event full of prompts dedicated to...well.. Halloween. One of the topics for Blogoween got me thinking about plot devices or storylines I want to read more of and I thought I should make a post about it. Let me tell you, a few of these are emotional roller-coasters, because this is me and why wouldn't I put myself through heartache and pain?

Sunday, September 1, 2019

Book Review: The Final Score by Jaci Burton

 The Final Score by Jaci BurtonAuthor: Jaci Burton
Series: Play-by-Play #13
Audience:  +18
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Sports Romance
Publisher: Berkley
Release Date: September 12th 2017
My Rating: 4.5 Cups
Source: Netgalley
Blurb (from Goodreads):
In the new Play-by-Play novel by the New York Times bestselling author of Rules of Contact, a star quarterback is torn between his love of the game—and the woman who may be the love of his life.

Nathan Riley is ready to follow in the footsteps of his famous football player father. He’s been drafted as quarterback for his dad’s former team, and his sports future is bright. When his friend Mia Cassidy moves to the same city, their years-long friendship suddenly sparks hot, reminding him of the one night they had together in college that he can never forget.

Like Nathan, Mia is from a sports dynasty family and embarking on an incredible new career—as founder of her own sports management company. Her friendship with Nathan means everything to her, and tossing sex into the mix again could jeopardize it all. But the chemistry between them has always sizzled, and it isn’t long before Mia realizes she wants more with Nathan than just late-night talks and pizza.

Passion has a funny way of changing the rules, and soon Nathan and Mia realize that to win it all, they’ll have to make an unexpected play for love.

*Disclaimer: I received an eARC of this book from Berkley and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not influence my rating or the content of my review in any way.

**Disclaimer: This book contains mature content. As a result, my review may contain references to content intended for mature audiences only.

Play-by-Play is one of my favorite sports romance series out there, so whenever I hear that Jaci Burton is publishing a new book in this series I know I'll have an amazing time. My realization that The Final Score is about Nathan, Mick and Tara's son, however, made me delay my reading of this book for so long. I knew I was going to be emotional while reading this, and I'm here to tell you that I was right. I was an emotional mess. But I also had tons of fun.

Thursday, August 29, 2019

Blog Tour Book Review: How To Love A Duke In Ten Days by Kerrigan Byrne

HTLAD - BT banner

“Romantic, lush, and suspenseful.”― Suzanne Enoch, New York Times bestselling author

How to Love a Duke in Ten Days, an all-new must read historical romance from USA Today bestselling author Kerrigan Byrne, is available now!!

How to Love a Duke in Ten days_MM
Author: Kerrigan Byrne
Series: Devil You Know #1
Audience:  +18
Genre: Historical Romance
Publisher: St. Martin's Paperbacks
Release Date: August 27th 2019
My Rating: 5 Cups
Source: Social Butterfly PR
Blurb (from Goodreads):

These men are dark, bold, and brave. And there is only one woman who can bring them to their knees...

Famed and brilliant, Lady Alexandra Lane has always known how to look out for herself. But nobody would ever expect that she has darkness in her past—one that she pays a blackmailer to keep buried. Now, with her family nearing bankruptcy, Alexandra strikes upon a solution: Get married to one of the empire’s most wealthy eligible bachelors. Even if he does have the reputation of a devil.

LOVE TAKES NO PRISONERS

Piers Gedrick Atherton, the Duke of Redmayne, is seeking revenge and the first step is securing a bride. Winning a lady’s hand is not so easy, however, for a man known as the Terror of Torcliff. Then, Alexandra enters his life like a bolt of lightning. When she proposes marriage, Piers knows that, like him, trouble haunts her footsteps. But her gentleness, sharp wit, independent nature, and incredible beauty awakens every fierce desire within him. He will do whatever it takes to keep her safe in his arms.
*Disclaimer: I received an eARC from Social Butterfly PR and St. Martin's in exchange for an honest review. This does not influence my rating or the content of my review in any way. 

**Disclaimer: This book contains mature content. As such, my review may contain references to subjects intended for a mature audience only.

Trigger Warnings: Rape, murder, blackmail

Wow. That was my first and only thought for a good portion of my morning after reading this book. Since this was my first Kerrigan Byrne book, I didn't quite know what to expect, but I had very high hopes. I can honestly tell you that my hopes were met and surpassed.
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