ARC Review: Mastering Her Senses

If you regularly read this blog, you already know how much I love Laura Kaye and her books. I'm always so grateful that I'm able to sign up to review her new releases, so today I want to share with you her newest release. Check it out below!

Title: Mastering Her Senses
Series: Blasphemy, #2
Author: Laura Kaye
Self-Published
Release Date: February 21, 2017
Pages: 188
Buy Links: Amazon | BN | Kobo | iBooks

Blurb:
He wants to dominate her senses—and her heart…

Quinton Ross has always been a thrill-seeker—so it’s no surprise that he’s drawn to extremes in the bedroom and at his play club, Blasphemy, where he creates sense-depriving scenarios that blow submissives’ minds. Now if he could just find one who needs the rush as much as him…

Cassia Locke hasn’t played at Blasphemy since a caving accident left her with a paralyzing fear of the dark. Ready to fight, she knows just who to ask for help—the hard-bodied, funny-as-hell Dom she’d always crushed on—and once stood up.

Quinton is shocked and a little leery to see Cassia, but he can’t pass up the chance to dominate the alluring little sub this time. Introducing her to sensory deprivation becomes his new favorite obsession, and watching her fight fear is its own thrill. But when doubt threatens to send her running again, Quinton must find a way to master her senses—and her heart.

I have waited for this book and it was so worth the wait!

Quinton. I mean, need I say more? 

Alright, I will ;)

Quinton was the book boyfriend of all book boyfriends. Can I say that? Well, I guess I just did. He was all around perfect. I mean, literally, his only flaw was that he forgot something at one point. Otherwise, he was attentive, passionate, laid back, enthusiastic, caring, and very sexy. *fans self*

Cassia sounded hot as well. Something about her fear made her seem more relatable, but she had a determination to please her master, and it was...inspiring. She was such a great submissive. If Quinton was a dream Dom, she was the dream Sub. Together, they were literally perfect.

The scenes were so hot, but what I enjoyed the most--sorry Cassia--was when Cassia would freak out and Quinton would immediately come to her side and take care of her. That was the most amazing part of BDSM that I enjoy reading from Laura's books.

"Like most Doms, Quinton was hard-wired with the need to take care of those he cared about, and certainly, of the one he loved. In every way she needed. In any way she needed."

Did I mention Quinton was such a cool guy? Actually, they both had such a good sense of humor. One of my favorite parts of the book was the "licking" bits. You'd have to read the book to know exactly why they were doing some licking ;)

...they took turns in the bathroom before meeting again at her bed, where she was pulling on a tank top and a pair of boxers.

Cassia: "This okay?"

Quinton: "Whatever makes you comfortable, baby." *kisses her cheek* "You mind me naked?"

Cassia: "Is that a trick question?"

Quinton: "Get your sexy ass in bed, woman."

I couldn't get enough of this book; I wished it was much, much longer! Oh, and it was also nice to see a little Raven Riders cameos ;)

Want to see my review for Book 1 - Bound to Submit?

Read More

ARC Review: Bound to Submit

Laura Kaye is one of my absolute favorite authors for a reason... When she releases new books and offers them for review, I'm always at the front of the line to sign up. Check out my review below of her latest new release.

Title: Bound to Submit
Series: Blasphemy, #1
Author: Laura Kaye
Self-Published
Release Date: October 11, 2016
Pages: 154
Buy Links: Amazon Paperback | Kindle
BN | iBooks | Kobo

Blurb:

From the ruins of an abandoned church comes Baltimore’s hottest and most exclusive BDSM club. Twelve Masters. Infinite fantasies. Welcome to Blasphemy…

He thinks he caused her pain, but she knows he’s the only one who can heal her…

Kenna Sloane lost her career and her arm in the Marines, and now she feels like she’s losing herself. Submission is the only thing that ever freed her from pain and made her feel secure, and Kenna needs to serve again. Bad. The only problem is the Dom she wants once refused her submission and broke her heart, but, scarred on the inside and out, she’s not looking for love this time. She’s not even sure she’s capable.

Griffin Hudson is haunted by the mistakes that cost him the only woman he ever loved. Now she’s back at his BDSM club, Blasphemy, and more beautiful than ever, and she’s asking for his help with the pain he knows he caused. Even though he’s scared to hurt her again, he can’t refuse her, because he’d give anything to earn a second chance. And this time, he’ll hold on forever.

Intricately hot and emotional!

Master Griffin and Kenna Sloane both had something to feel guilty about. Together, they faced their fears and battled their demons, and it was so beautiful. I was crying towards the end of this book and the damn tears just wouldn't stop!

Kenna felt self-conscious about her arm; she felt like people would be put off by it, but the one opinion she really cared about was Griffin's. His reaction to her insecurities was so passionate that I was overwhelmed with admiration for his character.

"Are you under the impression that your amputation in any way detracts from my attraction to you? Because if you are, I'm telling you right fucking now that you're the most beautiful woman I've ever known in my whole goddamned life and nothing--nothing--could ever change that."

The way that Griffin embraced all of Kenna, even as she thought she was incomplete or undeserving, was so inspiring. His feelings for her helped him show Kenna that he wasn't going anywhere.

Kenna: "It can't exactly cut me, Griffin."

Griffin: "That's not fucking funny, Kenna."

There was one really intense scene that brought so much tears in my eyes. I just couldn't wait for you all to read it. It was so amazing and heart wrenching at the same time. Especially when Griffin had to text '911' to one of the other Doms. Just brilliant how they were all there for each other whenever assistance was needed.

One of my favorite parts was finding out Griffin drove an Audi A7. What a sexy car for a sexy man. Can every sexy man just drive an Audi, please?

There were two things I wanted to mention though. First, it seemed that in any BDSM situation that took place in someone's personal abode, there was always a wash cloth in the bathroom for someone to use. I mean, I don't even own a wash cloth. How do these characters just always happen to have a wash cloth at the ready? (lol)

Second, the ending felt a bit incomplete. There was one scene I was hoping to see, but when I saw "the end" and didn't read about the scene, I was a bit disappointed. Well, I guess when Griffin thought "it was private", I guess that meant the reader couldn't read about it either. Darn it! 

Overall, though, this book was so good. I have always devoured Laura's books and this was no different. I would highly recommend it. 

Read More

#RWA16 Day 1: July 13

The first day of the Romance Writers of America Conference was so much fun! There were over 400 authors at the Literacy Autographing event. I was half an hour late, but I was glad that I made it there with my friend. I never fangirled ever, but I did for this conference. I couldn't help myself. I was really happy and I was in my element.

My first stop was Laura Kaye. I knew she was going to be there so I made a beeline to her table with my friend in tow. Luckily, she wasn't talking to anyone when I got there, so I was able to say hi right away, get a hug, and then a selfie. First fangirl moment!

My next stop was Sorcha Mowbray. She writes really steamy books. Thankfully this time, I could take a photo with her! This was actually the second time we met, but the first time, I couldn't take a photo. 

I don't remember the order from here, but I also met Linda Thomas-Sundstrom. The legend behind the rich world of paranormal romance. She brought her vampire wine and a new addition, which was a ken doll that looked pretty much like the cover model of one of her books. Awesome!

I had no idea that Melissa Cutler was going to be at the signing, so when I saw her, I lost my sh**. Fangirl to the extreme! She's one of my absolute fave, albeit local, author :) So, of course, I bought the book she had at the table, duh :)

Next up was Catherine Bybee. This woman was the epitome of all things goals. She always looked like that woman you wished you could be. She also had an amazing shoe collection that's stored in the most amazing closet. I swear, Catherine is probably secretly royalty of some country.

When I saw Jaci Burton, I knew I had to meet her. I own a couple of her books, but hadn't read them. That sure didn't stop me from telling her that and buying her newest book, though!

Up next was PC Cast. She wasn't the one signing, but she was so excited nonetheless. I was so happy to finally meet half of the duo that was responsible for the series that made me into the bookworm I am now. I wasn't able to chat with Kristin, but I was kind of star struck for some reason. These two are such legends!

I was supposed to meet Brenda at the LA Times Book Festival, but she had already left when I got there. So, when I saw her at the signing, I had to introduce myself because Carlene Love told me I needed to meet her. There she was, with cake pops at her table. Then my friend ended up fangirling, so there was that :)

Finally, I met Sylvia Day. I also have a few of her books, but I hadn't had the chance to read them. But I still came to meet her and she was such a sweetheart. Also, her face and her books were all over the hotel! I totally fangirled and possibly embarrassed myself a little bit. (Okay, maybe a lot.)

Towards the end, I saw a table with Nora Roberts' name on it, but there was no Nora! I was so bummed that I missed her. I didn't even know she was going to be there, but I would have loved to meet such a legend! Even authors I love are fans of her.

Anyway, the whole event was such a blast that I didn't even want to leave. But alas, we had to pay for our books and then go home. My friend and I stopped by In-N-Out before heading to our respective cities.

Stay tuned for Day 2 and Day 3! :)

Giveaway: I posted two giveaways on my Twitter. Check them out below. Winners chosen 7/19/16 (or longer if no one enters lol)
2 Winners https://twitter.com/ariannecruz07/status/754893111717801988 1 Winner https://twitter.com/ariannecruz07/status/754892255987511298

Read More

ARC Review: Hard to Serve

As always, I feel so lucky to be one of the early readers of Laura Kaye's new releases. Check out her newest below!

Title: Hard to Serve
Series: Hard Ink, 5.5
Author: Laura Kaye
Publisher: Evil Eye Concepts, Inc.
Release Date: June 28, 2016
Pages: 140
Buy Links: Amazon

Blurb:

To protect and serve is all Detective Kyler Vance ever wanted to do, so when Internal Affairs investigates him as part of the new police commissioner’s bid to oust corruption, everything is on the line. Which makes meeting a smart, gorgeous submissive at an exclusive play club the perfect distraction… 

The director of the city’s hottest art gallery, Mia Breslin’s career is golden. Now if only she could find a man to dominate her nights and set her body—and her heart—on fire. When a scorching scene with a hard-bodied, brooding Dom at Blasphemy promises just that, Mia is lured to serve Kyler again and again.

Then, as their relationship burns hotter, Kyler learns that he’s been dominating the daughter of the hard-ass boss who has it in for him. Now Kyler must choose between life-long duty and forbidden desire before Mia finds another who’s not so hard to serve.

HOT, HOT, HOT!

I honestly don't know how Laura does it, but she manages to surpass the greatness of every book she's released in the past. This new novella was so hot and such a great little teaser to her new series Blasphemy.

The chemistry between Kyler and Mia was so explosive from the very start. I loved the way Laura wrote the book in such a way that even I could feel Kyler's dominant aura. It was, quite possibly, one of the hottest things I've ever read.

This book was exactly the kind of story that got me into reading BDSM stories. I enjoyed reading about the dominance, but more than that, I enjoyed the trust between the two characters. I also loved the way that they were meant to serve each other equally, though not obvious at first. There's nothing better than a Dom taking great care of his sub after an intense scene.

Mia: "Oh, my God. Are those chocolate chip?"

Kyler: "Is there any other kind of cookie? I mean, really."

Mia: "I agree completely, Sir."

Kyler: "Good. That's always the best course of action."

Kyler and Mia also genuinely cared for each other. It was so sweet when Kyler asked about Mia's gallery, and when Mia asked if Kyler was okay when he looked so angry. 

Kyler: "You really do look beautiful."
Mia: "Thank you."

Kyler: "How did your big gallery opening go?"

Mia: "How did you remember that?"

Kyler: "Because it was important to you."

Another thing I loved, of course, was the humor in the book. I could always count on Laura to have some of the other characters grill the main character in some way. It was honestly one of the most enjoyable things to read.

Griffin: "Kyler? What am I missing here? Why was she unhappy?"

Kyler: "She can't afford the membership."

Griffin: "Can't afford...? But aren't you..."

Quinton: "Yeah, I kinda thought so, too."

Kyler: "I don't do relationships. You know this. So you thought wrong."

Quinton: "That's some bullshit right there, Kyler. But tell yourself whatever you need to sleep at night, I guess."

Speaking of Quinton, I was absolutely in love with his character! (But don't tell Kyler) He was such a beacon of light and joy when Mia was down. I honestly cannot wait for his book!

Over text messages:

Mia: "Hi Master Quinton. It's Mia Breslin. We met at Blasphemy last month. Just wanted to thank you again for your kindness that night."

Quinton: "You've been thinking about my superpowers, haven't you? Admit it. Q"

Mia: "How could I not? Who can resist a great mystery?"

Quinton: "When are you coming back in?"

Mia: "I don't have a membership. I was actually hoping you might be able to recommend another club in Baltimore. I love Blasphemy but it's outside my range."

Quinton calls Mia:

Quinton: "Mia, I'm not your Dom, but I'm about to give you an order. You ready?"

Mia: "Um. Maybe?"

Quinton: "Get you ass over here right now."

Mia: "What? I'm in pajamas."

Quinton: "This is Blasphemy. Clothing is entirely optional. Problem solved. What else you got?"

Mia: "Master Quinton, maybe you didn't get my last text. I can't come back to Blasphemy-"

Quinton: "I got it. You can come back. You have a membership."

Mia: "I returned it."

Quinton: "Uh huh. Which is why your card is waiting for you at registration. Memberships are nonrefundable, Mia. You have one. Please use it. This is the only place where I can guarantee your safety, especially given some of your interests."

Can you tell yet how much I enjoyed this book? There were so many good parts that tugged at the heartstring one way or another. If you like BDSM stories, this one is definitely a must-read!

Read More

ARC Review: Ride Hard

Ever since I became one of the lucky ones to be granted an ARC every time Laura Kaye releases a new book, I have read the entire Hard Ink series, and I cannot wait to read the whole Raven Riders series! I hope you'll stay with me as I review my way through Laura Kaye's masterpieces. Let's start with the first book of her new series below.

Title: Ride Hard
Series: Raven Riders, #1
Author: Laura Kaye
Publisher: Avon
Release Date: April 26, 2016
Pages: 384
Buy Links: Amazon | BN | iBooks | Kobo

Blurb:

Brotherhood. Club. Family.
They live and ride by their own rules.
These are the Raven Riders...

Raven Riders Motorcycle Club President Dare Kenyon rides hard and values loyalty above all else. He'll do anything to protect the brotherhood of bikers--the only family he's got--as well as those who can't defend themselves. So when mistrustful Haven Randall lands on the club's doorstep scared that she's being hunted, Dare takes her in, swears to keep her safe, and pushes to learn the secrets overshadowing her pretty smile.

Haven fled from years of abuse at the hands of her criminal father and is suspicious of any man's promises, including those of the darkly sexy and overwhelmingly intense Ravens' leader. But as the powerful attraction between them flares to life, Dare pushes her boundaries and tempts her to want things she never thought she could.

The past never dies without a fight, but Dare Kenyon's never backed down before...

Laura Kaye did it again! This book was riveting and I couldn't put it down!

First of all, let's take a moment to appreciate one of the most beautiful covers I've ever seen. From the moment she revealed the cover until now, I'm still in love with it.

Haven was such an interesting character. She was strong and the most amazing baker that ever existed, apparently! I honestly wish I had the talent to make such heavenly creations like she did in the book. 

Shaking away the thought, Dare elbowed his way to the table. "Y'all are a bunch of goddamned vultures," he said, diving in for another and taking two more for good measure.

As per Laura's signature, there was just the perfect amount of humor in this book. I really did enjoy the camaraderie among the riders. I could really sense the unity and their love and respect for each other. It was written so well that these factors were simply jumping out the pages.

Eyes still down, Dare shrugged. He saw it. He saw her. "Doesn't really matter, does it?" Something hit him in the forehead. He flinched as a pencil tumbled down his front and fell to the floor.

Dare: "Ow, you fucker. Coulda taken my damn eye out."

Maverick: "Uh-huh. Stop shitting me for a minute."

Dare: "What do you want from me, Maverick?"

Maverick: "You like her."

Dare: "Mav--"

Maverick: "You fucking like her."

The big idiot grinned. Like there was anything good about Dare's errant feelings.

Dare: "Good-bye, Maverick. Don't let the door hit ya in the ass on the way out."

Dare wasn't the kind of alpha male that growled and marked his territory, because come on, he's the club president. He kind of already had the automatic respect from everyone. I also liked that Haven was stepping out of her shell. It reminded me a little bit of myself the way she was sheltered. Also, the way that she grew up; only knowing about pain and fear, and not about acceptance and kindness.

Don't get me wrong though. Nothing's hotter than a dangerous-looking Dare. Oh wait, there is, actually. A badass Haven. I can't say anything more than that because those details would be spoilers, so you'll just have to read the book.

"...[she] guarded you like a lioness guarding her cubs."

JUST ABSOLUTE BRILLIANCE!

Read More

Book Review: Hard Ever After

If you didn't know already, I've read every single Hard Ink novel that Laura Kaye ever published. So, I was over-the-moon excited when I saw that there was a wedding novella for one of the couples. I was very thankful to have the opportunity to review the book before it was even released!

Title: Hard Ever After
Series: Hard Ink, #5
Author: Laura Kaye
Publisher: Avon Impulse
Release Date: February 2, 2016
Pages: 96
Buy Links: Amazon | BN | iBooks | Kobo | Google Play | Harper Collins

Blurb:

Justice served. Honor restored. Team reunited. 

After a long battle to discover the truth, the men and women of Hard Ink have a lot to celebrate, especially the wedding of two of their own--Nick Rixey and Becca Merritt, whose hard-fought love deserves a happy ending.  

As Nick and the team shift from crisis mode to building their new security consulting firm, Becca heads back to work at the ER. But amid the everyday chaos of demanding jobs and their upcoming nuptials, an old menace they thought long gone reemerges, threatening the peace they've only just found. 

Now, for one last time, Nick and Becca must fight for their always and forever, because they know that when true love overcomes all the odds it lasts hard ever after.

I've always loved the Hard Ink series, and this one was no different. As soon as I started the book, I wanted to devour it. I don't know what it was about Laura Kaye and her writing, but I just didn't want to put it down. So, you could probably guess the torture that I had to go through when I had to put down the book and get back to work in the office. The horror!

Anyway, Becca was such a strong and courageous woman. However, even the strongest women feel afraid and defeated sometimes, too. I admired the way that Becca bounced back from her situation and the support that the rest of the team provided her.

One thing that I really loved about the series was the sense of belonging that was very clear. There were times when I was getting a bit choked up along with the characters because their bond was incredible.

Nick was as fierce as ever, and very sweet (but don't tell him I said that). Becca was his weakness, but also the source of his strength. It was such a privilege to be some sort of witness to their love.

"A man with so many rough edges...and a dimple. It slayed her every time."

There was a line that kept being repeated in this book and it was "Always and Forever"... For some reason, I kept thinking of the breakup song that Taylor Swift wrote called "Forever and Always." Thankfully, Nick and Becca's love story was a good one and truly, they were each other's forever. How cute was that?!

I was also thankful for the glimpse into the future of each of the rest of the characters/couples. That was such a nice touch, and bravo to Laura for giving that to the fans.

Last but not least, I've always loved the humor of the Hard Ink series, and this book was no different. The comedic relief was so brilliant!

"Gentlemen, start your livers."

P.S. Becca had the best bachelorette party ever! I want one just like hers!

Want to read my review of the whole series?

1. Hard as it Gets

2. Hard as You Can

2.5 Hard to Hold on To

3. Hard to Come By

3.5. Hard to be Good

4. Hard to Let Go

4.5 Hard as Steel

Read More

New Release Promo: Love in the Light

Hi everyone! I have another amazing new release to share! This time, it's Laura Kaye's sequel to Hearts in Darkness! Check it out below!

Title: Love in the Light
Series: Hearts in Darkness, #2
Author: Laura Kaye
Self-Published
Release Date: January 12, 2016
Pages: 197
Buy Links: Amazon | Amazon UK | iBooks | Kobo | Nook

Blurb:

Two hearts in the darkness… 

Makenna James and Caden Grayson have been inseparable since the day they were trapped in a pitch-black elevator and found acceptance and love in the arms of a stranger. Makenna hopes that night put them on the path to forever—which can’t happen until she introduces her tattooed, pierced, and scarred boyfriend to her father and three over-protective brothers. 

Must fight for love in the light… 

Haunted by a childhood tragedy and the loss of his family, Caden never thought he’d find the love he shares with Makenna. But the deeper he falls, the more he fears the devastation sure to come if he ever lost her, too. When meeting her family doesn’t go smoothly, Caden questions whether Makenna deserves someone better, stronger, and just more…normal. Maybe they’re just too different—and he’s far too damaged—after all…

I've read so many of Laura's books, but I haven't read this duet yet. It's honestly so hard to keep up when I have so many favorite authors! Help!

Read More

Cover Reveal: Ride Hard

I don't usually do cover reveals, but Laura Kaye is one of my favorite authors AND this new cover is so hot, I just had to share! Behold, the cover of the first book of the spinoff Raven Riders series, Ride Hard! *applause*

Being a member of her street team, I had the privilege of seeing this cover days before today. Upon closer inspection, I fell in love with how beautiful it looked. From the black and white effect, to the sexy man on the bike, to the fact that I knew this book would be amazing; I couldn't contain my excitement. Thus, the reason I'm sharing this cover reveal with you.

What do you think? Are you excited for this series?

Title: Ride Hard

Series: Raven Riders, #1

Author: Laura Kaye

Publisher: Harper Collins

Release Date: April 26, 2016

Pages: 320

Blurb:

Brotherhood. Club. Family.
They live and ride by their own rules.
These are the Raven Riders...

Raven Riders Motorcycle Club President Dare Kenyon rides hard and values loyalty above all else. He'll do anything to protect the brotherhood of bikers--the only family he's got--as well as those who can't defend themselves. So when mistrustful Haven Randall lands on the club's doorstep scared that she's being hunted, Dare takes her in, swears to keep her safe, and pushes to learn the secrets overshadowing her pretty smile.

Haven fled from years of abuse at the hands of her criminal father and is suspicious of any man's promises, including those of the darkly sexy and overwhelmingly intense Ravens' leader. But as the powerful attraction between them flares to life, Dare pushes her boundaries and tempts her to want things she never thought she could.

The past never dies without a fight, but Dare Kenyon's never backed down before...

Arianne

Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram

Read More

Review: Hard as Steel

Title: Hard as Steel
Series: 1001 Dark Nights | Hard Ink/Raven Riders Crossover
Author: Laura Kaye
Publisher: Evil Eye Concepts, Inc.
Release Date: September 22, 2015
Pages: 128
Buy Link: Amazon

Blurb:

After identifying her employer's dangerous enemies, Jessica Jakes takes refuge at the compound of the Raven Riders Motorcycle Club. Fellow Hard Ink tattooist and Raven leader Ike Young promises to keep Jess safe for as long as it takes, which would be perfect if his close, personal, round-the-clock protection didn't make it so hard to hide just how much she wants him--and always has. 

Ike Young loved and lost a woman in trouble once before. The last thing he needs is alone time with the sexiest and feistiest woman he's ever known, one he's purposely kept at a distance for years. Now, Ike's not sure he can keep his hands or his heart to himself--or that he even wants to anymore. And that means he has to do whatever it takes to hold on to Jess forever.

This book was over in a blink of an eye. I want more Ike and Jess!!!

The sexual tension between Ike and Jess was so apparent right from the very beginning. I love how Ike was the typical alpha male: protective, guilt-driven, and secretly a teddy bear. How cute was that?! I also loved that Jess was a firecracker. In Ike's words, she was "unapologetic" for being who she was. She was carefree and honest, which I totally loved!

She asked Ike to get Pop-Tarts and Hot Pockets at the store, and he came home with fruit. Go figure. "Toast is boring. Doritos are life."

I've always loved Laura's writing. Although since I've read the whole Hard Ink series, I've noticed quite a similar theme: woman in distress, protective alpha male, they kind of like each other...  No matter what, though, I loved this book! The tension was so thick, but they always had each other's backs. 

He was sick and flat on his back, but something about the quickness of his answer and the intensity of his gaze sent a ripple of awareness through her body. "Well, then scooch over, ya big lug." "You say the sweetest things," he said, voice like gravel. "I know, right? I'm such a peach."

I definitely would recommend this book. I wish it was longer, for sure, but I can't wait for the Raven Riders series!!! *fangirls*

Arianne

Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram

Read More

Review: Hard to Let Go

Title: Hard to Let Go

Series: Hard Ink, #4

Author: Laura Kaye

Publisher: Avon

Release Date: June 30, 2015

Pages: 384

Buy Link: Amazon

Blurb:

Five dishonored soldiers.
Former Special Forces.
One last mission.
These are the men of Hard Ink.

Beckett Murda hates to dwell on the past. But his investigation into the ambush that killed half his Special Forces team and ended his Army career gives him little choice. Just when his team learns how powerful their enemies are, hard-ass Beckett encounters his biggest complication yet--a seductive, feisty Katherine Rixey.

A tough, stubborn prosecutor, Kat visits her brothers' Hard Ink Tattoo shop following a bad break-up--and finds herself staring down the barrel of a stranger's gun. Beckett is hard-bodied and sexy as hell, but he's also the most infuriating man ever. Worse, Kat's brothers are at war with the criminals her office is investigating. When Kat joins the fight, she lands straight in Beckett's sights . . . and in his arms. Not to mention their enemies' crosshairs. 

Now Beckett and Kat must set aside their differences to work together, because the only thing sweeter than justice is finding love and never letting go.

Humorous, touching, and all-around amazing! Hard to Let Go is the last and best book of the series!

I have waited for this book and when it was time for me to read it, I could not put it down. I devoured this book like a child would devour a cake. Roller coaster emotions provided for such an amazing book.

Beckett had scars that went beyond the physical. He was hard and tough, except around Kat. The two met when Beckett trained a gun to Kat in one of the previous books. My favorite nickname for Beckett was Trigger.

What I enjoyed even more was the Chapter 3 surprise. Beckett and Kat didn't mess around. I supposed it was because they met under different circumstances than the other couples in this series. There was no room to build up an attraction because they already lived under the same roof. The chemistry exploded instantly as a result. Oh yeah :)

I loved the way Beckett's character was written. One of his favorite phrase was "for fuck's sake." I thought it was funny whenever he thought of it. I also was able to clearly visualize his mannerisms such as when he would rub his chest because there were foreign emotions that plagued him, especially towards the second half of the book.

The roller coaster took a nose dive during a funeral. I was literally crying with the characters when all hell broke loose. The bond of all the characters was something I wished to have one day as well.

Overall, if you want something very relatable and would keep you at the edge of your seat, this book was written just for you. You wouldn't want to put it down! I've not read such a riveting story lately until I've read this one.

I saw the meme below on Facebook, and never had it been so true for me, until now.

Please do yourself a favor and read this entire series. Check out my reviews of the other books below.

1: Hard As It Gets

2: Hard As You Can

2.5: Hard To Hold On To

3: Hard To Come By

3.5: Hard To Be Good

Arianne

Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram

Read More

Review: Hard to be Good

Title: Hard to be Good
Series: Hard Ink, 3.5
Author: laura Kaye
Publisher: Avon Impulse
Release Date: April 14, 2015
Pages: 99
Buy Link: Amazon

I was provided an ARC. All opinions are my own.

Blurb:

Hard Ink Tattoo owner Jeremy Rixey has taken on his brother's stateside fight against the forces that nearly killed Nick and his Special Forces team a year before. Now, Jeremy's whole world has been turned upside down--not the least of which by a brilliant, quiet blond man who tempts Jeremy to settle down for the first time ever.

Recent kidnapping victim Charlie Merritt has always been better with computers than people, so when he's drawn into the SF team's investigation of his army colonel father's corruption, he's surprised to find acceptance and friendship--especially since his father never accepted who Charlie was. Even more surprising is the heated tension Charlie feels with sexy, tattooed Jeremy, Charlie's opposite in almost every way.

With tragedy and chaos all around them, temptation flashes hot, and Jeremy and Charlie can't help but wonder why they're trying so hard to be good...

This was my first M/M novel. Honestly, I only read it because Laura Kaye wrote it. Boy, was I glad I did! It was so cute and so heartwarming!

Jeremy was the kind of guy that I would totally have a crush on. He was such an open book and also very positive and humorous. He chased after what he wanted and he gave without expecting anything in return. In short, he had a big heart.

Charlie was the guy that was kidnapped and tortured. He was a computer genius, but his father didn't accept his homosexuality. Unlike Jeremy, Charlie was very shy and unsure of himself. Jeremy was a good influence on him, though.

I would be honest and say that it was weird reading about two men getting it on. However, since this was a book, and a well-written one at that, all I saw was love and I was all for love. It was so romantic and I really felt for the characters when they had a little conflict. Ooh, I just wanted to hug them both!

I urge you to have an open mind and read this book. I think you will enjoy it as much as I did. 

Arianne

Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | Instagram

Read More