Vogel

When I read the book description, the storyline of a girl who got a man sent to prison for something he didn't do, and years later he's out and it's time for her to return a favor. In my head, Imagined that under the dangers of messing with a man like that and him exacting some kind of payment or another, this could turn out to be erotic between them. Even though things did get a little sexy and whole lot dirty, this book just did not live up to what I expected...for a few reasons.

 

For one, yes, Rafe did take Alex to an island and held her captive there. There's another book I read that followed the same thing, so I also built up my imagination with that too. Bad idea. Because that's where the similarities end. As where the island in said book I mentioned was a beautiful island and the heroine got to traverse on it (thought not at first because escape attempts), in Torrent, Rafe held Alex captive in the basement, chained in a cage. That was super unsexy because she was mistreated in there. Although I understand that she wouldn't get pampered there after what she's done to him, doesn't mean I like how she was treated there. The sexy time parts are when she's let out for good behavior and they get it on in Rafe's bed upstairs. And around the house, as long as she doesn't try anything to his dislike. Because it's back to the cage for her. As long as she was supervised, she could check out and lounge around the house. Those times she was out of that cage was the good parts of this book.

 

That's the biggest issue I had with this book. But there was another, not as big, but still turned me off. It was near the end when scuffles happened that caused Rafe to wake up with no recollection of what happened the past 8 years. Upon waking up, he doesn't remember being in jail or how he got on the island and what he did there. He also started thinking of some chick he hooked up with before being sent to jail 8 years ago and how it made him hard, and wanted to find her to fuck her again. I don't know why, that just turned me off. For that, I'm not itching to read the next installments in this series.

 

Torrent wasn't at all a badly written book, it's actually good, but the reason for the low rating is completely biased. So, don't turn away this gritty book because it may be just what you're looking for--It just didn't work out that well for me.

Hearts in Darkness was short and sweet, nice, clean fun with undercurrents of emotions and sexual heat between the characters. Some misunderstanding and trepidations here and there, but once they got through all that and become honest with each other as well as themselves, it was clear that they were meant to meet each other even if under some unconventional circumstance. What I also liked was that angst was low. And plenty of steam to top it all off.

I liked the spin on the MC premise. We get to see what it's like when a club member gets thrown in a cell, and then there's something conspiring within the prison that raises suspicions about the people who work there. It makes you question what makes a person good and bad, and who you really can trust. Whose got your back, and who will turn on you. In most MC books I've read, we only get glimpses of what goes on while one is locked up but not much more than that. Here, we get a lot more. That's what I liked about Precarious and what sets it apart from the other MC's.

The heroine as a prison guard? Tough as shit and can throw a brick wall of any man who crosses her on his ass. That's my kind of heroine. And the hero who is the prisoner? Yeah, this calls for some interesting and surprising trouble. We also see the clubhouse life, MC business, rescue missions, sex, more sex and whatnot. And there's a sexy ménage near the end, so if you're into that too, you'll be in for quite a treat. If you're usually not (like me), you'll still enjoy it. Nothing too kinky or too much, but still enough to be intrigued by it. There's an ending that sets things in motion for the next book with the club Prez and his little "pain in the ass."

Story Diary for Opposition here!

Origin left us with quite a cliffhanger in which we are still dealing with the repercussions that happened in that book.

Shit, meet fan. They meet a couple times in this one. Long story short, I was almost convinced that it was possible for me to hate Daemon (my #2 book boyfriend) at one point, but he wasn’t exactly to blame for what made me ache for both Daemon and Katy. But then when we’re in Daemon’s POV, we see that there’s more than what we see. Daemon really put A LOT on the line and sacrificed a lot too in Origin that continues into Opposition. It showed how soul-deep his feelings for Katy is. He'd do anything, risk anything just to keep his Kitten safe. So if you think you hated the Arum, the DOD or Daedalus before, think again and prepare to exceed that limit. The things that they face in here was a lot bigger than what we’ve ever known. The alien invasion, the Origins conspiring, an alliance with a familiar (if you've read Obsession) Arum, sketchy characters and plans... you're left questioning every motive and who's on whose side. And then there's that thing with Dee. And what about Katy? What is she, if not your typical hybrid? So many things that we didn't understand before, comes into light here. But back to a particular Daemon bit… That part stung. Honestly, I felt like I should’ve picked a less painful otp. But never fear bc Daemon is stronger than that, and so is Katy and the rest of the gang. We know the truth behind it in his POV that Katy couldn't see.
Luc. What to say about him. I didn’t like him at first. He was a punk ass kid. It was that way for a long time, I never thought that would ever change. Now, I wouldn’t go as far as to say that I like him at the end, but he’s the type that you hate to hate less. I was glad to see Hunter from Jennifer's companion novel Obsession. He has an important and probably surprising role in all of this.

It’s been a long journey of a lot of battles, hardships, conspiring, obstacles, losses, fighting, hurting, but also strength-building, life lessons, forgiveness, family, gains, love and a whole lot of sarcasm and inappropriate innuendos from none other than Daemon himself.

I flew through this faster than I would have liked, but I honestly could not put it down. After such trying times for the gang, it’s finally over and ended wonderfully. Suffice to say that I read to the last line with a big ass grin on my face.

I was really looking forward to Wild Angel, the follow-up to Rock’n Tapestries, by Shari Copell because I liked the first book (although the second half of the book Chelsea and Tate’s relationship seemed forced and convenient to me, and also made me bawl for a douche-y rockstar who may or may not deserve a girls tears), and because it was about Chelsea and Asher’s daughter all grown up, taking Pittsburgh by storm with her (daddy’s — unbeknownst to her) tabacco sunburst guitar. I always wanted to read a book that’s about the characters children's own book. So this answered my prayers in that respect. Wild Angel was the first one that did, so I was even more excited to get into it.

 

Right from the first chapter, I was excited. Nicks (heroine/the daughter) kicks off with a fiery demeanor while rocking out on stage, just like her biological daddy, the late Asher Pratt. Not only that, but while mouthing of expletives about sex and curse words to shame a sailor, Stone Jensen is there watching and not scared one bit by whatever she throws his way. See, they’ve been on bad terms for a year by then because he said some not-so-nice things about her and her guitar-playing skills. Right off the bat, you can feel the tension when they challenge each other. When I read that, I was locked and loaded for more challenges and tension to come. Only to be disappointed from that point on. Instead, Stone went up to her and talk to her for the first time ever to apologize for saying all those mean things about her. Oh, she stood her ground and basically told him off alright.

 

She may have brushed him off at first, but Stone turned soft from that point on. Like I said, I expected more of a fight from them, but I didn’t see the same challenge he had when he saw her play that stage that day. He makes nice to get her to forgive him and be on good terms, if not friends. Long story short, they both form a friendship and bond over guitars and the mystery of who willed them to her. This leads to a string of theories, snooping, digging, questions, a near-panic attack or two from Nicks mom, and the truth. All the while, the school principal seems to have it out for Nicks and strange occurrences and dreams have been happening around the household... Well, you can see that a lot stuff goes down.

 

See, this book is over 500 pages. Usually I don’t complain even if it is a NA contemporary, but this draaaagged at parts. If you cut down all the unnecessary crap, it would be a good 300/400 pages and wouldn’t drag so much. If you ignore that part, this is a good book. All the events, the building, mystery, secrets, kidnappings, a sadistic school principal, sketchy characters, attempted murders, paranormal elements, and plot twists.

 

The ending is what made me want to throw my kindle out the window at 7am and go hunt down Shari with a pitch fork and torch in hand. Or near the end, I should say. There’s like 2-9% of the book left that had me bawling and screaming how is this fair? Why would you do this? How dare you! This was not the happy ending you promised us, Shari! I mean, I know not every story had a happy ending, but I expect an HEA if the book description promises one, especially if it’s from the author themselves. I was so nervous and hopeless by 98%. But then Asher, from beyond the grave, somehow gave them a miracle that gave us the HEA. I took the much need breath that was steeled from from me.

 

Overall, even though I wanted more tension/challenges between Nicks and Stone and some parts dragged and the ending literally had me on edge, I enjoyed this book. There was rock n roll, steamy times, mystery, and family values.

Check out my Story Diary for LAILAH! (Includes a guest post from author Nikki Kelly)

 

I can’t say that I’ve read Lailah when it was first posted on Nikki’s Wattpad, but I’m so glad that she got a book deal(s) out of it. Lailah takes on a different spin on the vampire mythology. So the vampires in Lailah are not tiresome like the majority we read and see lately. The world-building, creatures and their history are organic, so this is a refreshing paranormal read with a plot that sticks.

 

Cessie (aka Lailah) is having an identity crisis of sorts becomes a journey of self-discovery for our heroine, all the while being on the run from a greater force. She knows she can’t be human. For one, she doesn’t age and she can’t stay dead. She’s also having recollections of memories that doesn’t feel like hers. Cessie seems to have a Bounty over her head. Someone(s) or something out there is out for Cessie and thus begins a series of events and an epic game of cat and mouse full of twists. Whoever wants her for reasons no one knows. A guardian of angel of some sorts that goes by the name of Gabriel, whom Cessie finds an inexplicable connection with, comes to Cessie’s rescue and runs to find protection and possibly answers, and stumble upon a wounded vampire along the way with a story of his own. They get the sense that somethings brewing and facts (or lack thereof) aren’t adding up. This journey proves difficult for Cessie due to the many layers of events and the poor decisions she makes along the way. Meanwhile there’s an ominous creature lurking in the dark in the shadows (reference intended). What’s her role in all of this? All the while everyone’s wondering what is Lailah? Who is after her and why? What do the memories mean? Is Gabriel keeping things from her? Can either of them be trusted? Does she like Gabriel and Jonah? Who will she choose?

 

Nikki Kelly is like the Jennifer L. Armentrout/Cassandra Clare of love triangles. I say this because they all have the knack for creating a solid love triangle that is so, so difficult to choose a boy who gets the girl in the end. And it’s hard to pull that off. So hats off, Nikki! You can see where this is going… I can’t choose between Gabriel or Jonah. They each offer something different like night and day; qualities to like in a person, and also qualities you’re not quite sure about. And then there’s the whole, which one is trustworthy ordeal. Le sigh. I’m on the fence, but I’m leaning towards team Jonah. Can’t resist a bad boy. ;)

 

I admit that it was a little tough for me to get into it at first because almost immediately in the prologue, we’re thrust into a sequence of events, so you’re wondering what’s going on, and I kind of got lost somewhere in there. Some creatures were introduced while all the action was happening, so we get a feel as to what we’re dealing with and what is to come. No need to worry, though, for Nikki’s rich and vivid writing it will all make sense in time. And the twists will have your mind moving in a retrograde — like, it’s hard for me to keep this review spoiler-free right now! But it’s all needed for the direction the Styclar saga is going.

 

The ending made feel all kinds of feels, contributed by all the feels I’ve felt throughout the whole book. But it didn’t stop there. It got even more mind-boggling after. From the bonus content from Gabriel’s POV, to the ending of chapter 1 from the second book Gabriel. Actually, that ending took the cake. It’ll make you gasp and itch for the second book. Possibly shake your e-reader or book. I know I did. There’s a lot of things yet to be revealed and I can’t wait to see where they go from here.

I liked Foreplay a lot, so of course I added Tease to my TBR. I wanted to find out more about the party girl Em we met in the first book. But it kind of fell short to my expectations. More than the first half of the book, everything seemed forced and predictable. I just couldn't get into it. Fortunately, the stuff leading up to the end and the end itself made it for me. I was giddy like the hopeless romantic fangirl that I am, even though I wished for reconciliation for Em and Shaw's family. But I see that they can do fine on their own. Together.

After finishing and they were all wondering about our southern belle Georgia, I knew that the next installment will be about her, but I got to thinking about Logan. I wanted to skip Georgia's and wait for Logan's -- if he even gets a book. Then the WILD sneak peek, I have no fear. Not only do we get Georgia, but we get Logan too. Both in one book. So I guess I don't have to wait long after all. It's like killing two birds with one stone! Georgia and Logan are polar opposites in almost every way, so it'll be interesting to see how that will all turn out.

Even though Tease fell short to my expectations, I still enjoyed it. And I can't wait to read Wild!

Title: Inked Armor

Series: Clipped Wings #2

Author: Helena Hunting

Genre: New Adult Contemporary Romance

Release Date: May 13, 2014

 

 

Inked Armor is the follow-up to Clipped Wings, which continues the story of Hayden and Tenley. If you've read Clipped Wings, you're familiar with the way it left off with Tenley returning home unexpectedly. That left Hayden going stir crazy with separation anxiety in Inked Armor. Okay, maybe it's a little more than anxiety, but I hope you get the picture I'm trying to paint for how it affected Hayden. Inked Armor picks up with Tenley going home to sort out her past and herself, and Hayden also works on himself too. Apart from each other. This tested their love beyond limits, and both can't tell if they can ever come out of this together or not. Although it was painful to do so that way, it was also for the best that they did. They each go through hell and back so they can build a solid future together. They do a lot of growing up, letting go, moving on from the past and into a healthier future in this book.

The first part of the book focused on both of them working the ugly kinks out in their life while apart, and the last part is their reunion but it still takes time and effort to build their way back to each other and toward their future. But even when they reunite, they both are still skirting around the very words they want to hear but are too afraid to say. Not to mention their doubts and insecurities in their path. Those parts made my heart ache for them. I'm just like, let yourselves love each other already. But then I take a step back to look at them and what they've been through and understand their trepidation and why it is easier said than done.

I think Tenley going to face her past was absolutely necessary. Scary, yes, but we all need to tap into the dark side of our nature, and people are afraid of that because it holds pieces of us that we're too busy denying. We must face our demons before we can embrace our future, and that is exactly what she did in this book. What they both did actually. Tenley worked a lot on herself during their time apart, and her courage and strength really shined. Hayden too. The things they each went through and how they still struggle from it well into their current lives was such a hard pill to swallow. I just wanted to take them out of the book and just hug them back together.

Fortunately, they had some really wonderful and awesome supportive friends and family that were the constants and the voice of reasons in their lives. They kept some things light and hearty and was well appreciated. They made us laugh when we needed it most, and when no one expects it at all. I love how understanding and supportive they are. These two may wear their story and heart on their sleeve with their tattoos, but they have dark deep-rooting pains as well as uplifting and unfailing hope that goes deeper than the ink on their skin.

"We were marked by one another. It went far beyond the skin. It went right down to the soul. In this life, for as long as we had, we would be each other's armor."

Hayden and Tenley's profound love reminded me that love can grow even in the darkest place of your life. Especially that rainbows can follow storms.

Inked Armor isn't depressing, but a story of renewal and growth. Out of the ashes, the phoenix will rise in these two kindred-spirited souls. In that, they hold a special place in my heart and will forever resonate. They developed as well and beautifully as one can and it helps shape them for the future. Even though this is an emotionally-provoking love story, it's not all pain and emotional angst in these pages; there are tons of good hearty fun and banter, and plenty of steamy and sexy times to keep you laughing and fanning yourself. Helena has got you covered in ranges of areas to keep a balance of the good and bad in life and love. It's as intense and tantalizing as the first one (if not more), so you're in for a myriad of treats. And don't even get me started on the sexy times that brews between them because I don't think I'll stop anytime soon. Let's just say that it, as well as their feelings for each other, are slow-burning and hard-hitting as ever. Did I mention tantalizing? Because it is and so much more. I loved to see how they reconnect and grow back together even stronger than before. Their love is powerful, strong and ever-present, and how unbreakable it is truly shows. It was amazing to witness that journey. Hayden was adorable, especially to Tenley (duh). I adored how caring he was toward her, if he hurt her and asking if she was okay. That was sweet. Guys don't make sure of that as much as Hayden does. It really showed more dimensions to the depth of his character.

What made this intensely emotionally-charged story stand out is the authenticity of the story, circumstances, emotions and the characters. This is not like any like those depressing books around that brings your mood down or makes you roll your eyes. This one really resonates and sticks with you. That's what I liked about it; it evoked real emotions and I didn't find it annoying at all.

Helena palmed the ace the way she carried the continuation and conclusion to Hayden and Tenley's story. And if you know me, you know that I'm a sucker for HEA's after such a long jounrney, so you can probably guess that I ate this up like Hayden indulges in cupcakes... of all forms. *wink wink* Speaking of cupcakes... I'm elated that there were more of those here.

 

 

I was sent an ARC from the publisher in exchange of an honest review and for the blog tour, however, it does not influence my review nor was I monetarily compensated.

Unrequited is a novella in Melody Grace's new series (sort of) about a girl who is licking her wounds after suffering unrequited love, and a reclusive rock star that is getting back in the spotlight after suffering pain of his own. A good girl who recently got her heart crushed, and a leather-wearing, motorcycle-riding former rock star may seem different on the outside, but they share common ground from deep within. They are both hurting from something, and hope for healing. What they didn't expect was for their lives to cross, or the connection they feel between each other.

Right off the bat, I liked Alicia and I can relate and empathize with her. Unrequited kicked off with an intense make-out scene between Alicia and some hot stranger, and her thoughts about it. I found it a bit comical because she's a goodie-goodie type of girl who doesn't usually partake in this kind of behavior, so it's blush-worthy on her part to be in such a hot and heavy encounter with a stranger. It somehow heightens their connection though. Oh, they did talk some before they found themselves lip-locking outside the bar. She doesn't recognize him at first. It is none other than thee Dex Callahan. A former rock star that dropped off from the face of the earth, and an unexpected make-out/near dry humping encounter on top of that can do that to you. Although Alicia tries to fight whatever is brewing up between them by running for the hills -- or into the bar where said stranger she made out with only minutes ago is performing at -- they find themselves in a bind that calls for an impulsive escape on his motorcycle. Another thing outside of her comfort zone. It is then, after they found a place to hide at, that they get to know more about each other and the heat turns up again.

Readers are treated with a few steamy moments between the two that is a nice little tease for what's to come for Dex and Alicia. It's short yet promising. Our boy Dex is hiding something in his past, and there's more to Alicia's unrequited love with somebody, as well as the other people in her life. Both of which will be explored and revealed throughout the new series. Even though their time together may be short while he's in town, Dex is willing to explore and get to know Alicia more. Alicia on the other hand is half for it -- because how can you resist Dex? -- and half wanting to run far away. She's already hurting, so she doesn't want to risk getting hurt again. What's refreshing and surprised me was that for a (former) rock star, Dex isn't an arrogant, cocky jerk. He has his pain and vulnerability, and the gentleman manner that adds depth to the person he is. He's also an overwhelming alpha either, but he does demand attention by how he carries himself. Usually, insta-love type ticks me off if not done well, and although this isn't exactly insta-love, the connection between them is heady from the get-go. Dex rolls with it and wants to explore it, while Alicia tries to deny it. Signals get mixed due to Alicia and where her feelings currently stands, especially now that Dex is thrown in her path, and the way they misread each other a time or two. But leave it to Dex to risk it just to have Alicia in his arms. The question is, how much is he willing to risk, lose, and fight to keep her?

I enjoyed and took a liking to both Alicia and Dex both individually as well as together. Unrequited is a quick and nice read with undertones of emotion that keeps engaged and yearning for more. And the humor and banter will have you smiling so big, laughing out loud, or blushing. The sexual tension is ever-present and promising for these two. I can't wait to see where they go and end up when their story continues in the next full-length installment, Uninhibited. If you loved the Beachwood Bay series, you will enjoy this series as well.

Full review on: http://www.papercharade.com/2014/05/arc-review-unrequited-by-melody-grace.html

Bree Langston is an internet genius, making her way to making millions toward a promising and secure career and future. Everything is nearly set. That is until she found herself a stalker who plays dirty, determined to take her in a downward spiral before she reaches the top. Not only is her business at stake, but so is her life. Bree seeks out protection from the threats of her stalker in form of Kelly Connolly--the one she pined for for years and the only one she truly trusts. Kelly was Bree's brothers best friend, they both fought alongside each other in the marines (before her brother was killed in the war), and he is now working at a security firm, so Bree knows he's the man for the job to protect her.

Kelly, unbeknownst to Bree, has been in love with his best friend's sister and had shared a kiss that tied their connection even more, so when Bree comes to him shaking in fear and in need of his protection, he's rocked to his core with the feelings that he thought were long gone and his fierce need to keep her safe. All those years he's had feelings for Bree, he fought against for the sake of not wanting to betray his best friend (even after his untimely death) by pursuing a relationship with her, so he rejected her then. No matter how many times she had been rejected and years spent apart, it never severed their feelings for each other. It's still there and burning as ever.

They've had history before the story began, and we get to see it (and them) grow more since they reunite (although through some distressful circumstances). Since they've already had feelings before the book started, the romance between them may seem a little fast-paced. And the sexual chemistry is hard-hitting and intensely all-consuming. Kelly protects as fiercely as he loves. But with so much passion as these two have, there will be strain and tension as well. There's back and forth due to their internal battles of what they feel is wrong, and what they feel is right and true. But it was nice and quite frustrating at times to see them break down their walls and go with their feelings. But that doesn't come easy, or course, and with the situations they find themselves in, comes the question whether or not certain characters even make it out alive. And if they do, where will they stand at the end?

We meet the rest of the Connolly boys, Kelly's brothers Jack and Finn that become essential and take on big roles in the story as well as Kelly and Bree's lives. I cannot wait to read their stories (which are out now)!

There are subplots present throughout the story to shake up their already tangled up lives. The stalker is unrelenting and unforgiving and is getting more and more sinister in his vendetta, Kelly's father soon ropes them into bad and dangerous situations, a pay off in form of getting into a ring, family battles, and dealing with an Albanian mob. They've stirred up quite a myriad of unfortunate events in a short amount of time. Good thing the Connolley's and Bree have an alpha-male of a man Kelly on their side to gain their safety back.

There is a plethora of elements that make up this romantic suspense -- sabotage, intrigue, twists and turns, angst, action, mobs, debts, family battles, tension, suspense, angles, trepidation, lies, unhealthy addictions, hot sex, passion, broken trust, and fighting in the ring, safety and heart all wrapped into an enthralling package, so readers are hardly have time to be idle or bored.

I've only read one of L. P. Dover's books from the Second Chances series, and that was Meant For Me, and I was hooked to her writing ever since. So, of course I jumped at the chance to read Fighting For Love. It doesn't matter which order you read the series, though, because they are all stand alone's with their own characters and their own stories, so you won't miss a beat. We do, however, see a certain character from Meant For Me comes back with a vendetta. Don't worry, I won't spoil it for you, I'll let you figure out who. After all, the unknown and the unexpected is part of the fun.

We know the gist of their past through the blurb, so I'll skip that part. Because of Shelby walking out of Matt's heart and life years ago, their reunion is not pretty. And that is completely understandable. There were reasons, reasons she's kept hidden, that she believes Matt wouldn't understand and deal with that causes her to walk away from her only love. A secret that could possibly make or break a relationship.

I think it sucks that it is what kept them apart and wasting time for a whole decade. Like any person, Matt keeps his guard up. Around her, and around everyone. Even though it's tough, I just wished that Shelby trusted Matt enough to let him in on her secrets. I mean, aren't you supposed to not keep secrets from the one you love? And aren't they supposed to love you without conditions? I know that secret of hers is scary to let them be known to anyone, but how are you supposed to know if you don't trust them with everything if you don't give it a chance to lay it all out there? I guess I can't blame the girl too much, because if I were in her shoes, I'd walk out too. Especially if it'll save lives if not love.

Of course, there is also that pesky something or someone who stops at nothing to tear a couple apart. There are secrets, intrigue, lies, betrayal, questions looming over their heads and behind their backs. The past rears its ugly head and derails plans of winning them back. This will put their love to the ultimate test. You're left questioning if they can ever come out of this and if their love and withstand anything in their way. Second chances come with a price, and Shelby and Matt learns just how much it'll cost them. It's a long journey of trusting, forgiveness and communication to get their second chance at love and happiness with a promising future together.

What was refreshing is that it's the girl who was the one who walked out and the one to fight for another chance this time, and not the guy. There was plenty of twists and revelations that I did not see coming, and that made it a much more of an enticing and intriguing read. Shelby and Matt's love is honestly undeniable and very passionate. Together they are moving and intense because their love (and lust) runs deep even after all they've been through. And the sexual tension and sex itself is oh so hot and full of steam, and its presence will let it be known whether you're prepared for it or not.

L. P. does not disappoint and her writing does not waver in Fighting For Love. Other than the writing that drew me in, I'm also a sucker for fighting stories, in the ring and for a heart. The passion just flows, and the sparks fly off the wall -- whether they are necking on it or not. Wink, wink. They never stopped loving each other, and in the end it's clear that they really do fit together like no other. It just took some a lot of courage and fighting to get there.

Escape In You is a story about two people who couldn't be more different on the outside, but share common ground in regards to their pasts. However, under some differences in circumstance. They are both hurting, so they build facades to mask their pain. Zoe and Jet "Taylor" are going through the motions in life due to their dark and broken pasts, so they avoid feelings and commitments. A means of self-preservation. Taylor is the male counterpart to Zoe. They've had a bright life and futures ahead of them until it all went crashing down. They've had loved ones who treated them poorly, but still tried to keep it all together in any way they can. Once they cross paths and find that they both are looking for nothing but fun, that's exactly what they set out to do...at first. Little do they know is that feelings will develop, and before they know it, they are in too deep to back out.

Like most stories, this is no fairy tale. There were times where Zoe and Taylor completely rivaled each other. Where Zoe doesn't give a crap about anything that's not essential in her eyes, Taylor surprised me by his loyalty and sweet charm. Don't get me wrong, he's no saint by any means, but he has more character than some guys his age. But with this comes differences, and that is where they clash a lot of the times. This is where they got a bit frustrating to deal with and read about, but I was still invested enough to care about them and where they go each step of the way. There's a long journey of healing, acceptance and forgiveness ahead of them.

It's the thing about summer flings and casual hookups for whatever reasons that can tend to lead to something you don't expect to get caught up in, or find yourself in a bind you can't escape. With Zoe and Taylor, comes the question of whether or not two broken people together can be a blessing or a curse. It can be both, or it can be one or the other in disguise. You just have to be able to recognize which one it is. It starts out fun for them, distracting each other from their pains even for a little while, but then it gets messy between them. Then it's not all fun and games anymore. At this point, I couldn't help but mentally tell them to trust themselves to drop their walls enough to let each other in their life and hearts. Of course, as stubborn as she is, it took a while for Zoe to hear me out. I cheered Taylor on for going after the girl who wormed her way into his heart. The more they hang out and get to know each other, they really do have fun together; the banter and everything inside and out of it. It was that, that they truly found their reprieve in-- Not while rolling between the sheets for the "fun of it." They shine a light to rival their darkness and found something that neither of them thought they needed or even wanted. You know what they say. "Never sleep with anyone you don't want to date." Of course that doesn't happen with every person you sleep with, but it is something to consider and be careful with.

Before summer ends, they found an unstoppable and undeniable romance they were not looking for. Goes to show that there is hope, love and light behind the iron-clad walls that's placed around a heart, you just have to trust enough to let them down. As it turns out that taking a chance to go with your heart can help save you after all. Rachel Schurig has a way of making readers to empathize with the characters and their emotional yet hopeful story. Two broken people with little hope left in them, really can find a light in the darkness, and find a love so deep it deep it eradicates their pain. In dark times, some people shine.

There's a long road for healing for the both of them still and I'm glad they are working on it, but their past is gearing up to rear its ugly head that made it seem like a cliffhanger. I thought this follow up was supposed to be closure, but I can see a door left ajar for something more.

This is going to be more of an observation/analysis than a review, so be forewarned. In a way, I jumped into this book blind. I've heard good things about it, and the fact that the synopsis/blurb doesn't give away the book, I didn't know what exactly what to expect. And that's the way I like it. I am one of those who hates synopsis's because they either give things away, or because they are deceiving. I've read quite a few books with the captive/captor trope, but Hero was (sort of) pleasantly different. I'd use the word pleasantly loosely though. It's only pleasant because Hero is different than your typical captive/captor premise, and that was refreshing. There's something bigger out there, and the captor in this story {SPOILER} isn't the bad guy. Well, not in ways you'd expect, anyway. It's the type of story where lines blur: love and hate, hero and enemy, personal hell and sanctuary. That can make your mind boggle and make you question where your head is at. You can also learn a lot of things from this from all three sides. For that, Leighton wrote such a well-written and compelling story in Hero.

They always say, be careful what you wish for. And I've mentally told Cataline just the same. She got her Hero to save her, but not in ways she's dreamed of. In the beginning, living the mundane life in the city with a dead end desk job, she seemed mature for her age of 22. But throughout the book, she seemed to be going backwards. It's understandable, though, being a captive will do that to you. The captive is doomed to be submissive to the dominant of the captor by default. And I'm not talking about sexually, either, even though that too does apply. Even given the luxury of a nice living quarters, butlers and maids and chefs at your beck and call, designer clothes, I still felt bad for her. Because where she's given that, more important things were taken from her: freedom and innocence. There were times where she was tended to well, and other times where she was treated terribly. But experiences like that does damage, and in that, you grow from it. Experiences like that changes you emotionally and psychologically. So I understood why she reacted the way she did, and the effects and toll it took on her afterward. It becomes embedded in your psyche, and it doesn't go away right away, it resonates in you even if subconsciously.

I don't know what to make of the Hero, Calvin. He's a hero in every sense of the word (nickname for him included), and the antagonist in other ways. He feels an obligation to Cataline for a mistake he took blame for regarding Cataline's parents in the past. That obligation turns into an obsession. An obsession to protect her, which leads him to stalk her and take care of her without her knowing. Even in his POV, knowing what he is and is capable of, I didn't quite fully understand him, and I study psychology. I kind of had a field day in his POV to say the least. I always wondered what it was like to be inside of a mind like his, and when I finally got it, I was a bit disappointed and still confused that I still couldn't figure him out. At first, I pegged him as a sadistic sociopath. There was plenty of things that rubbed me the wrong way, but not as much as other books like Hero, or in a way as it should have. He humiliated her, violated her, stripped her of her innocence, sanity and freedom, punished her, hit her once... all of those inexcusable. He claims that he only did what he did to protect her, but the only way he protected her was her safety from the Cartel's clutches and throwing her in his destructive path instead. But there were undertones that I don't really pick up on others that showed that he sort of cared for Cataline in his own way. Even if he didn't understand himself. Hell, I don't even understand it myself. But isn't that how it is in the beginning? Like, you don't know what exactly it is that you're feeling, but you know it has to be something more and deep. It's not until the end, did I understand him a fraction. Only that much better than when the story started. I guess he'll always remain a mystery. He's a superhuman -- I won't say more than that, other than it reminding me of the tv show on CW Beauty & the Beast. That's one of his secrets that I predicted early on. This is like a Beauty & the Beast meets Batman meets other captive stories. Hero is the type of guy you hate to love and love to hate. Either way, you're going to feel one way or the other, if not both. Same applies to the sex scenes.

A lot of things were predictable, so I was hardly surprised by the secrets and twists and turns of things. There was only one time that caught me off guard -- don't worry, I won't spoil that for you. However predictable, it didn't deter me from wanting to see it to the end. See if any of the theories I conjured up happens in the book. I always wanted to see what happens next. I liked that there were parts where you think something has worked out, but find out that there's still a quarter of the book left, so you know that something else is going to happen. That kept you on the balls of your feet, the edge of your seat that way. You can't help but be drawn to wanting to find out what else can go down and how it all goes down, and where they will stand in the end.

With all the predictability and the strange Hero, it did not keep me from being engaged in the story. I grew to care about the characters and find hope for our heroine. Not once did I feel the need to DNF it for that reason, much to my surprise. Some of the events in here usually turned me off, but it didn't. (I don't know what that says about me). The other reason being, I wanted to see if there was actually some feelings being returned to Cataline. I would say redeemable, but he already does have redeeming qualities. He saves the city from crimes on the street to mundane things. He truly does care for the city and it's people. It became more than a duty, but a passion. Kind of like how it was with Cataline. The ending did feel incomplete to me, so I'm glad the author wrote a follow up novella continuing and finishing their story. There's still a road to healing and saving each other ahead of them.

Full review... http://www.papercharade.com/2014/03/review-hero-by-leighton-del-mia.html

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The ending was beautiful. I teared up a little, it was so cute and promising. I'm wishing for a follow up novella for them (and for Cam and Avery too), but it's not needed for a HEA is guaranteed. Jack is just the cutest. Be With Me was everything I could have hoped for and more. It was worth the wait.

The thing I love about romantic suspense and thrillers is that it keeps your adrenaline pumping, mind racing, questioning your own judgement, on the tips of your toes you fear of falling over the edge all the while entertaining some sweet romance along the way, and Tragic Desires is no different. It is packed with suspense, action, anticipation, intrigue, fear, courage, hot sexual tension, a dangerously sexy alpha male hero and an unstoppable romance. Hargrove weaved a myriad of elements to knock you on your ass and toppling over the edge in all the right ways. ;-)

I'll try to keep this review spoiler free, because the suspense and mystery of it all is part of the fun. The chemistry, build up and anticipation is slow-burning and hard-hitting. Boy does it deliver it all on a silver platter. When all hell breaks loose, it's as explosive as the tension in this story. It's fun and a bit scary to see it all unfold once the chips are down and out.

Drexel is one to be reckoned with. He is so fiercely passionate in all things -- his job, sex, love and all things Gemini, and I can see why it's impossible to resist his advances. Granted, there were times where he was infuriating and even pushed my buttons (hey, nobody's perfect), but as long as he pushes the right ones, it's all good. He's plenty redeemable in the end, though, so no worries on labeling him negative terms of endearment.

And Gemini is a somewhat likable character. Okay, minus her unhealthy vices she peruses to cope. She has dealt with a lot of pain and grief and still suffers from it, but that made her more authentic even if she was frustrating at times. But underneath all that pain lies a strong (yet stubborn), perceptive and realistic woman, and I can see why Drex becomes drawn to her. And she's smart to be suspicious of Drex's interest in her in the beginning, because who can you really trust out there in the world? In the end, Drex proves that she had nothing to worry about after all.

The chemistry between Gemini and Drexel is so thick with tension and passion, and electrifying that formed a strong bond in their connection whether they wanted it or not. It may not have started out so well between them at first (it almost never is), and that just adds fuel to the tension. But sooner than later, all pretenses are blown to pieces. They are susceptible to each others inexpiable magnetic pull, and when they give in to their desires, there is no stopping them. Their passion is raw, deep, but most of all, true. What I found so refreshing is that they were mature; no immature communications, denial, childish reactions or antics. Once everything was laid out on the table and cleared the air, it's game on. Seriously, Drex is book boyfriend material, ladies. He can get you hot and wet, and he will protect you with his life. And he's not bad to look at either. What more can a girl ask for?

The suspense, action, intrigue, anticipation and sizzling hot romance made for an enthralling read that keeps readers on their toes through it all. The fun part is the journey to see if they make it out alive, and together. It was definitely a wild and sexy and enticing ride.


Originally posted at http://www.papercharade.com/2014/03/tragic-desires-by-m-hargrove-blog-tour.html