Provocative Pages

Monday, August 8, 2016

Review: The Best Friend Bargain

Posted on 12:00 AM by Arianne | No comments

This review is extra special because the day before I finished this book, I met the author herself and we had lunch together! What a lovely day it was! Also, she gave me Honor and Bryce's book. I'd be going backwards, but watch out for my review on their book later this year as well.

Title: The Best Friend Bargain
Series: Kisses in the Sand, #3
Author: Robin Bielman
Publisher: Entangled: Love Struck
Release Date: August 8, 2016
Pages: 204
Buy Links: Amazon | BN | Kobo | iBooks

Blurb:

Olivia Lincoln has a plan guaranteed to get her life back on track. A plan that involves her best friend, Danny. And he’s on board, too…until she blurts out that they’re engaged and expecting a baby, and the news spreads like wildfire.

The problem? Danny doesn’t do marriage. Or family. And everyone knows it, including Olivia.

As irritated as he might be, protecting Olivia is what Danny does. But put best friends under one roof, add house rules begging to be broken, accidental nakedness, and pancakes in bed, and what started as a marriage between friends threatens to turn into the real deal…which would ruin everything.

So cute, so adorable, so perfect!

This book was so light and easy to read. I was hooked from the very beginning so I pretty much devoured this book. Was there any other way to do it?

Danny was the sweetest book boyfriend I have ever read; I just wanted to squeeze him so hard. Olivia was one lucky woman. He was always there for her no matter what, where, or when. He would do anything for her, including giving up his life and accepting her crazy proposal.

Of course, Danny was not without fault. There were times when I wanted to punch him and knock some sense into him. Or at the very least, wished that Bryce would do it on my behalf. Sheesh!

Olivia, on the other hand, seemed to believe that she never did anything right, because that was what her mother had always told her. What a witch! Thankfully, Danny was there by her side no matter what. That meant a lot, I was sure of it. I always told myself that even the worst people have at least one friend, so there must be something redeemable about them, right? Olivia certainly had a lot of amazing qualities. Qualities that Danny sure noticed more and more. Poor thing, the first half of the book was full of sexual tension, but they were so darn cute!

So anyway, this book was amazing and I can't wait to go backwards and read the second book. Click here if you want to read my review of the first one, Keeping Mr. Right Now.

ARC Review: Lure of Obsession

Posted on 9:16 PM by Arianne | 2 comments

If I wasn't mistaken, Lisa was the very first author I'd met in person. From the start, she was so lovely, and then I read her books and they were such a joy to immerse myself into. And then the time came when she approached me to edit her newest book, and I was only too happy to accept. Aside from being an editor, I enjoyed reading the book, so check out my review below!

Title: Lure of Obsession
Series: The Muse Chronicles, #1
Author: Lisa Kessler
Publisher: Lisa's Lair (Self-Pub)
Release Date: August 1, 2016
Pages: 266
Buy Links: Amazon | Kobo | iBooks | BN

Blurb:

The Prophecy - "Every generation the nine daughters of Zeus are reborn, and with their rebirth are also nine Guardians. They will be marked by the gods, and given gifts to protect his treasure. Their abilities will only be unlocked when they find their muse."

Melanie Jacoby teaches English at Crystal City High School. She's also the reborn Muse of Tragic Poetry, but she isn't prepared for the tragedy of finding her roommate dead at the bottom of the stairs.

Nate Malone is the detective assigned to the case, but as the evidence points to an accidental fall, the visions begin. He sees a killer in a gold Kronos mask.

Mel is the next target.

The Order of the Titans are eager to bring about the return of the Golden Age of Man, and they're prepared to kill the Muses to complete their mission. But Nate's desire to protect Mel is almost as strong as his hunger for her.

And tragedy isn't part of his plan.

A fresh new series that was touching, romantic, and a little bit cute.

When I first read the premise of this series, I knew I wanted to read it. I didn't read a lot of mythology books, but this one sounded interesting, besides the fact that Ms. Kessler wrote it. I liked the idea of Zeus' daughters living on Earth and inspiring people to move forward in the world. I truly appreciated the romance aspect of this book as well. The guardian thing was awesome, especially because he was a cop -- a man in uniform was always hot, right?

I loved the conversations in the book because they were light; not too serious. Melanie had such a way with words that made me giggle at times, even during sexy time ;)

There was also something to be said about Nate's willingness to help Melanie. He felt very protective of her, not to mention the undeniable attraction between them.

Since Melanie was the Muse of Tragic Poetry, it only made sense that she was a teacher who taught poetry. My favorite part was when one of her students read out loud. I might have shed a tear or two after reading that scene. It was so beautiful.

There was also a nice little surprise in the book that I thought the readers would really love. If you were looking for a new, fresh series to lose yourself into, I would highly recommend this one. I, for one, couldn't wait for the next books in the series. I heard there would be many more men in uniform.

Review: Seducing the Boss

Posted on 12:00 AM by Arianne | No comments

Remember when I reviewed my first ever Mari Carr book, Blank Canvas? I said in that review that I'd definitely be reading more of her books, so when I saw that her new release is up for review from Entangled, I immediately signed up. Read my thoughts below!

Title: Seducing the Boss
Series: Pulse, #2
Author: Mari Carr
Publisher: Entangled: Brazen
Release Date: August 1, 2016
Pages: 157
Buy Links: Amazon | iBooks | Google | BN | Kobo

Blurb:

Kellan James is unwinding at Score when he spots the last person he’d ever expect to find in his favorite bar. Sara Connelly—ER nurse, do-gooder, charitable crusader, and frequent pain in his ass. Both grew up privileged in swanky Southampton, but that’s where the similarities end. Kellan’s made it his mission to seek out life’s pleasures; Sara gains pleasure from lecturing him on his lifestyle. Kellan would never date someone like her. Ever.

But when Kellan discovers Sara’s been stood-up by an online date, something fierce and protective awakens inside of him. Typically, Kellan would enjoy teasing the jilted Sara, but something in her face sends him over to her table with a plan. He encourages her to take a walk on the wild side, one weekend of sin, no holds barred.

She accepts, but it quickly becomes apparent that one night isn’t enough. As the pull between them grows stronger, Kellan discovers it’s a very dangerous thing to say never.

Humorous, Romantic, and So Hot!

From the very beginning, I was hooked to this book. I giggled, I swooned, but I also fell in love very quickly with the characters. Kellan had such a charm that was irresistible. He was the eternal playboy who was the whole package: tall, dark, handsome, and intelligent. Well, damn. I wanted him for myself.

Sara was commonly known as Scrubs. Who knew she was hiding a sexy body underneath the unflattering nurse scrubs? But you'd be happy to know that she wasn't all good looks. Underneath, her heart shone like a beautiful star, if only one would pay attention *ahem, Kellan, ahem*

It was funny because I could relate to Sara's unplanned celibacy. When Kellan appeared so shock, it reminded me of my friend feeling so sad for me, just like Kellan did for Sara :)

The familiarity between the two characters was so refreshing and their chemistry was explosive. Gee, if this book never ended, I wouldn't have minded. Also, did I mention I really loved the little jabs at Kellan here and there?

"The man had an ego the size of California."

One thing that really touched me was when Kellan, the eternal playboy, asked Sara for more time. At that time, I witnessed his vulnerability and I felt so honored to be reading this book. Seriously.

Towards the end of the book, Kellan's family started getting involved and I just loved it, especially his mom. You know you're in trouble when you decide you need your mom. Kellan was in big trouble.

This book was not fun and games, however. There was a part in the book that was very serious and in it, I saw how Kellan's character changed and sort of grew up in a way.

Seriously, writing this review reminded me just how much I loved this book. I can't wait to tell my friends and coworkers about it!

Check out some of my favorite quotes/scenes below.

Sara: "Did I faint?"
Kellan: "I'm pretty sure you just lost your balance, but let's go with that passing out story. Makes me sound like a total stud."

Sara: "He thinks we're making a mistake, doesn't he?"
Kellan: "It's Josh. If there's a more impulsive, hedonistic guy on the planet, I'd like to see you point him out."
She raised her finger and pointed in Kellan's direction.

Kellan: "Give me thirty seconds." She tilted her head, giving him a quizzical look. "Condoms are in the bedroom."
Sara: "Oh. Some playboy you are. Sort of figured you'd have a box in every room."

"What part of 'naked' are you struggling with this weekend?"

Review: Love Reclaimed

Posted on 5:17 PM by Arianne | No comments

Last but not least, I have reached the end of the Market series. I may or may not have given the author an idea about one of the characters of this last book. Fingers crossed that she'd actually write one down the line ;)

Title: Love Reclaimed
Series: The Market, #3
Author: Sorcha Mowbray
Publisher: Amour Press
Release Date: June 21, 2016
Pages: 78
Buy Links: Amazon | BN | ARe | iBooks | Kobo
The whole series is also available as a boxed set.

Blurb:

Owner of one of the most successful brothels in London, Madame Marie Marchander has seen and done it all. Jaded by the hand life dealt her, she gave up on love the night her virginity was auctioned off twenty years earlier.. But then the boy, now a man, she once loved walks in to her establishment.

Jonathan Pierce, Baron Heartfield, had waited too long to save the woman he loved. A man no longer bound by the vows taken as a boy and under the influence of his father, he is determined to woo and win the heart of the only woman he ever loved. The fact she was forced in to prostitution is of little consequence beyond the guilt he bears for not interceding with her father.

Resolved to prove to Jonathan that she is not in need of saving, nor is she an appropriate wife, Marie agrees to take him as a lover for six months. Steadfast in his love, he launches an assault on her heart with all the strategy his years in the military afford him. His only goal, to reclaim her love.

Jonathan was one man determined to get what he wanted, in whatever tactic necessary.

This book started out a bit slow for me, but when it picked up, I really enjoyed it! Jonathan was very persistent though he kept getting mixed signals from Marie. He trusted his heart and had faith that Marie would see reason. It wasn't easy.

Marie thought that her new occupation might put off Jonathan, but she didn't realized just how serious he was about pursuing her. Instead of pushing him away, Jonathan actually liked the new things that Marie showed him. I was telling the author that in one of those attempts, if only Marie had chosen a male-male-female menage, she might have had a better chance of pushing Jonathan away. But yes, maybe she really didn't want to make him run for the hills.

This story was a bit more mature since Jonathan was trying to rekindle a love that existed twenty years ago. But I think, if you gave it a try, you would enjoy it, like I did. My favorite part was when Jonathan pretended to be sick, even moaning just so Marie would tend to him. What an insufferable, brilliant man!

Want to read my reviews of the other two books in this series? Click the links below.

Love Revealed, #1

Love Redeemed, #2

ARC Review: Hands On

Posted on 12:00 AM by Arianne | No comments

Have I mentioned Entangled Publishing is my favorite publisher? Which is why I'm back reviewing a new release from their Scorched imprint. Check it out below!

When hot as hell Danielle Lang showed up and asked me to teach her about sex, I thought I was hallucinating. Turns out the beautiful psychologist needed an extra bit of schooling in all things sexual so she could teach a class.

I’m always up for helping a friend. I mean, it’s the least I can do. What I wasn’t expecting is for her to turn the tables and teach me a few things. Only this short-term promise of two weeks in her bed is going by a little too quickly. Not that I’m thinking forever or anything.

I’ve got a football career to get back to. And she doesn’t want to be a part of my world. There’s no way we can be together—so I’m going to make sure I enjoy every sexy second….

This is the first of a three-part series full of mind-blowing sex, featuring a dirty-mouthed football player who knows the score and an inexperienced therapist who needs to learn it. HANDS ON is sure to leave readers begging for more. The next installment, Body Contact, will be published August 2016.

The Hands On serial is best enjoyed in order.
Reading Order:
Book #1 Hands On
Book #2 Body Contact (available in August)
Book #3 Full Exposure (available in September)

Humorous and sexy, Hands On is a must-read and I wish all three books were already published!

Danielle's character was so likeable that I was left wanting the rest of the series as soon as I finished this book. She was so naive and downright cute when she was in Jack's presence.

Jack definitely was a dirty-mouthed guy, and to be honest, that was one of my favorite traits when reading a book like this. However, besides that little tidbit, he was also "not an asshole" as he said. He didn't want to just take what she was offering, but instead, he wanted it to be good for her. Who knew, maybe even the best one she'd ever have.

The cliffhanger of this book seriously had me gasping and sputtering in confusion as to why a book would be ended in such a way, forever wishing it was one full novel instead of a novella. The struggle was real when it came to my desire to finish the story closer to midnight with a great disregard for the fact I had work the next day.

I just... I need the next book now! please :)

Grab a copy of this book; you won't regret it.

RWA16: Day 3 - July 16

Posted on 8:57 PM by Arianne | 3 comments

It's the last day of the conference and I decided to go by myself because I wanted to go to two signings and my friend on the first day didn't warm up to the idea. Thankfully, I didn't mind going by myself, and if you knew me, you'd know that was such a big step. I dislike crowds and being in public to begin with, but there was something about this conference that really just gave me the courage to go. Besides, I would be networking. When I came to functions as part of work, I usually don't feel as scared.

Anyway, I was about 20 minutes late to the first signing and I'd missed the books, but I was glad to still meet the authors that were still there. I got a lot of free downloads and lovely chats with authors who wrote for LoveSwept. Such sweet people as well!

I was not able to get any photos, but it was a great time! After I left the signing, I made my way to Starbucks to get my Grande Decaf Soy Mocha Frappuccino. I was a bit disappointed when they didn't want to give me my free drink, but what really threw me over was when I got my receipt and it said the drink was almost $8! Well damn. Anyway, I didn't let that dampen my day as I went to search for a comfortable chair to settle and read my current review book.

I didn't end up reading, but scrolling through Twitter instead. That's when I found Alisha Rai's tweet saying she was outside one of the ballrooms still giving away books. I tweeted saying there was a crowd and I was afraid (lol, of course). She said to come over and wave and she'd pull me through. Again, I don't know where the scared Arianne was, because I went searching for Alisha and when I found her, she did pull me through (figuratively) into the group. I ended up taking home one of her books and I can't wait to read it!

After meeting Alisha, I went back to Starbucks because I was to meet another author for lunch. First of all, how cool was that?! I just got there, and apparently, right behind me was my date -- Robin Bielman! We had an hour with each other and she treated me to lunch while I talked her ear off. She also gave me one of her books and one of Kate Willoughby's books. I was over-the-moon excited and happy for the gesture. Honestly, it was a bit surreal to be having lunch with an author I love. I mean, could this conference be any crazier!

Apparently, it could. After my lunch with Robin, I went to the Sourcebooks signing and for once, I was on time, but I wasn't the first 40 people so I missed out on a tote bag, but that's okay. I didn't miss out on the books! Oh my gosh, just look at the first photo in this post. It was insane how many books I picked up! I can't wait to read them all and write about them here.

I also met Mia Hopkins who was hanging around the signing. What a sweet woman! We had a short chat and she gave me some advice about the industry. I love how helpful her information was. Very thankful for that!

When I felt a bit overwhelmed and tired, I stepped out and texted Pam again. She found me and we walked together for a little bit, then we sat down to chat. Sometime during our chat, Cindy Sample walked by and Pam introduced me. She ended taking a stack of my business cards to give to her colleagues. Oh my gosh, mind blown again! After that, I went back to meet a couple more authors in the Sourcebooks signing, and then I decided to head home.

Overall, attending the RWA conference was the best decision I've made and I couldn't even express to you how happy it made me. I hadn't been this happy in a while and this conference made me feel alive! *insert the biggest grin here*