ARC Review: Stacked Up

I wasn't able to read all the books in this series, but the ones that I have read, they were all amazing. Now, the final book of the series is Travis's book and I couldn't have asked for a better ending!

Title: Stacked Up
Series: Worth the Fight, #6
Author: Sidney Halston
Publisher: Loveswept
Release Date: May 31, 2016
Pages: 263
Buy Link: Amazon

Blurb:
Working two jobs to support her infant daughter is harder than anything Penny Richards has ever done, but it sure beats living under the rules of her stepfather, a television preacher who demands a picture-perfect family. And if Penny hadn’t struck out on her own, she never would have met Travis Calhoun. The intensely physical heavyweight brawler has a way of drawing out her wild side. But Travis lives fast, with no responsibilities—and that just isn’t for Penny.
 
Most of the women in Travis’s circle wear tight clothes, high heels, and tons of makeup—not pearls or plaid headbands. But once he works past Penny’s inhibitions, Travis discovers a kindred spirit who longs to trust someone with her body, and her secrets. Still, Travis can’t help but wonder if this rich girl is just slumming it before she returns to her privileged life. Now it’s up to Penny to prove that she wants her hard-edged, hard-loving fighter just the way he is.

This book gave me all the feels and them some!

Where do I even start? From the very beginning to the very end, this book was all kinds of amazing. There wasn't a dull moment, and I wanted to keep on turning the pages to see what happened next.

Travis was one heck of a guy. No one could say anything bad about him, but it wasn't because he was perfect. He had a troubled past, which shaped him into the amazing man that he became.

"What are you doing?" Travis asked, alarmed. He stood up and held his hands out. "Do not pull out your boob."

"Travis, I need to feed her," she said incredulously.

"No, no. I don't need to see my sister's boob in my niece's mouth. That shit can't be unseen." He walked out of the nursery, yelling over his shoulder, "I'll be in the living room having a beer, maybe bleaching my eyes."

Penny ran away from home with her daughter Belle. If I was being judgmental, I wouldn't have believed they could survive, given that Penny grew up very sheltered. But reading about her struggles and how she'd overcome them for her daughter; I was awed and inspired. She was such a great role model. I also enjoyed the moments when she would literally just spill her heart out to Travis, because that's what best friends do.

Travis: "Little girl, it's time you walked. Calhouns don't like lazy. Plus I saw a piece of cake in the bag. Come and get it."

Penny: "You do know that she's not a dog, cowboy?"

Travis: "I know, but let's give her some incentive, no?"

He started eating.

Penny: "You like the food, cowboy?"

Travis: "Oh, uh... hell yeah. It was great."

Penny: "Really? What was it?"

He looked down and licked his fork.

Travis: "Fucking great food is what it was."

Belle, oh my gosh, the cutest little girl I've ever read in a book. I lived for the moments when she said "My Twavis." Have I mentioned the feels in this book? I think I fell in love as much as the characters did in this book.

Of course, I loved the humor that I'd come to know from Sidney's books. I cannot wait to read more of them in the future. If you're looking for a new series, or even just a new book to get you out of a reading slump, this is the one. I promise you.

Chrissy: "Seriously, guys?"

Francesca: "You guys are afraid of a one-year-old kid?"

Tony: "No, we're afraid of crying females. Age is of little importance."

Below are some of my other favorite quotes from the book.

"I more than want to try. I'm not really a try kind of guy. I'm more of a go-all-in kind of guy." --Travis

He parked in front of a huge toy store.

"I know you're going to complain, so all I'm going to say is that it doesn't concern you. It's between me and Belle. Isn't that right, baby girl?"

"Twavis," she repeated with a giggle.

Read my reviews of the other books:

Below the Belt, #3

Laid Out, #4

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Review: Taking Her Chance

Sorcha Mowbray writes super sexy books that I just love to devour. Today, I want to talk about a really short, but very enjoyable read called Taking Her Chance.

Title: Taking Her Chance
Series: One Night With A Cowboy, #1
Author: Sorcha Mowbray
Publisher: Amour Press
Release Date: May 24, 2012
Pages: 28
Buy Links: Amazon | ARe | iBooks | BN | Kobo
Hey! This book is free :)

Blurb:

Elizabeth Torrence spent the last nine years establishing her career and then building her advertising business from the ground up. The problem is, to do that she had to walk away from the one man who could have been the one. 

Chance Rogers, a star bull rider on the pro circuit had met the girl he wanted to marry back when he was scampering to rodeos between classes at the University of Texas. After only one date she refused to see him again. One failed marriage later, he is finally ready to try again. So he turns to a dating service to help him get back in to the swing of things. 

When Chance walks into the room at the Golden Mustang Dude Ranch, Beth is determined that history will not repeat itself. Not hers, and not her mother’s. But will she take her Chance or lose him again?

This is one sizzling read! It was short, but somehow, I felt like it was enough. I'm usually left with wanting more from a short story, but this book was satisfying. It was simple from beginning, middle, and end. 

I guess you could say that it was fate that brought them together. I love a good explosive chemistry, and the good bit of lace and red cowboy boots. Who doesn't like those things put together?

I like that they didn't beat around the bush. They were honest with each other. I mean, I'd hope so, because ten years is quite a long time. I love the idea of a dude ranch. I hope to read more stories like this one in the future.

Here's a little excerpt, but you'll have to read the book to know exactly what's going on ;)
Beth: "Hey there, cowboy."
Chance: "Hey there, baby. How's your day going?"
Beth: "It's getting better and better."
Chance: "How so?"
Beth: "Mmmm... Well, I was lucky enough to stumble upon a half-naked cowboy who looks like he could use a rub-down."
Chance: "Rubbing sounds good. But let me go clean up first."
Beth: "I don't think I want to wait. Beside, you smell good. Like sweat and man."
Chance: "Woman, what has got into you?"
Beth: "Hopefully you."
Chance: "You are playing with fire, baby. Are you prepared to get burned?"
Beth: "As long as you put out the flames."

So, this book is free, what have you got to lose? :)

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ARC Review: Courting Danger

Sometimes, I struggle with a book, but I was so glad I persevered with this one! When I got going, I couldn't put it down! Check out my full review below.

Title: Courting Danger
Series: Courting Series, #3
Author: Kimberly Dean
Publisher: Mischief
Release Date: October 29, 2015
Pages: 400
Buy Links: Amazon | Amazon UK | BN | Google Play | iBooks | Kobo | ARe

Blurb:

Rielle Sands ventured too close to the fire once and got burned. Now when it comes to men, she’s vowed to play it safe. But then a dashing, mysterious man shows up at Luxxor Limited after hours, the agency she manages, needing an escort.

Darien Scott isn’t what he appears to be. Beneath the sexy smile and wicked charm, he’s hiding secrets. Yet the sizzling chemistry between him and Rielle is real. He tries to stay away, but his attraction to her keeps pulling him back. When he discovers that he’s not the only one haunted by danger, he changes tactics. To protect Rielle, he may need to stay close. Super close. Exclusive Luxxor contract close.

The reward is more than worth the risk.

I love men who exudes power. Darien definitely fit the bill, although the first 30% of the story didn't quite click with me. However, I persevered and I ended up falling in love with the book.

First of all, the character names were awesome. Rielle and Darien are such sexy names! I almost want to have kids just so I can give them the same names as these characters.

One thing that stood out for me was the ability to defend one's self in this book. This book inspired me to learn martial arts. Rielle was definitely woman goals ;)

Darien, on the other hand, was so powerful, silent, and deadly. I did wish I found out just exactly what he did for a living, but a bit of mystery is healthy for the soul, isn't it?

Together, they were explosive. They could get hot and bothered anywhere and everywhere, even when it's not appropriate. I kind of liked that, actually. ;)

I also enjoyed the little bit of glimpse into Nina's story. I can't wait to read her book. She sounds like a real badass herself. I love a good boss lady!

Check out this little excerpt!
Nina: "Speaking of dos and don'ts, before we go any further, I have a list -- and Rielle can add whatever else she wants. All of this is moot if you can't meet the requirements."
Darien: "Let's hear them."
Nina: "Number one. I'm to be kept in the loop. I need more information that I've been given up to this point. I don't like being in the dark."
Darien: "I'll tell you what I think you need to know."
Nina: "Number two, this matter will be handled as swiftly as possible."
Darien: "Agreed."
Nina: "And number three, our no-contact clause will be in full effect."
Darien: "What does that mean?"
Nina: "No sex."
Rielle cringed back in her chair. Oh, that one might get a response out of him.
Darien: "Like hell."

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ARC Review: False Match

I am really loving the Coded for Love series by Lynne Silver, and today, I want to tell you all about the second book, False Match!

Title: False Match
Series: Coded for Love, #2
Author: Lynne Silver
Publisher: Beyond the Page
Release Date: April 3, 2016
Pages: 190
Buy Links: Amazon | iBooks | BN
ARe | Kobo | Google Play

Blurb:

Kidnapped with her son and forced into helping a rogue scientist with his experiments, Dr. Samara Jones saw no escape. Until the day she was rescued by a group of elite soldiers from the Program. Now under the protection of the Program, Samara is working to prove her innocence—and struggling to control the burning need she feels for Chase Stanton, one of her rescuers. 

As laid-back as he is deadly, Chase is a well-honed solider who always responds to the call of duty, whether it’s a life-or-death mission or a scorching night of passion. When he’s assigned to protect Samara, he’s immediately drawn to the smart, headstrong woman, and confides a dark fear to her—despite feeling torn by his suspicions that she could be a double agent. Duty demands he resist temptation, but desire has its own demands . . . 

Humorous, romantic, and overall heartwarming. I loved this book!

Chase was seriously one of the most lovable book boyfriend that had ever been created. He was so sweet, so charming, and sexy. He was Mr. Popular on campus with his surfer guy look and his reputation with the ladies. What's not to love?

"I like all women, baby. You included. Consider it a genetic defect that I'm going to flirt with you. It's too hard for me to fight it, so I won't bother. I see a pretty woman, I flirt. Nothing mysterious about it."

Dr. Samara was the most uptight woman that ever existed in this world that Lynne had created. I understood it, though. Being kidnapped would do that to people. Poor thing, sometimes I wanted to reach into the book and hug her myself.

"Stop glaring at me, Jonesie. I'm not going to molest you. I'm bored and want some company."

Luca was the most adorable little kid ever! I'd consider having a kid if the child turned out something like Luca. He was so cute and so loveable! 

Luca: "Mommy? Can I get in bed with you?"

Samara: "Sure, baby. Climb in. You can sleep with me tonight, but tomorrow night you go back to your own bed."

Luca didn't respond. He was too busy arranging his ragged stuffed puppy next to him. He was over on the edge of the bed, opposite her, which was unusual.

Samara: "You can scoot a little closer. Puppy doesn't need that much space, does he?"

Luca: "I'm leaving room for Chase."

There were a few things that I thought were missing from the story, though. Described in the blurb as "laid-back as he is deadly," I felt like I didn't get enough action in this book. I wanted to read about Chase being badass and fighting to protect his woman. Also, I wanted the ending to be longer, maybe even just one or two more pages. 

Lastly, the epilogue of the book was short, and I had expected that the character in that epilogue would be the star of the next book, but unfortunately, a completely different character would be explored. Don't get me wrong, I'm sure it'd be great, but I really did want to read this character's book already. But alas, I am resolved to read this series in order. I bet the torture will be so worth it, though ;)

Despite the wishful musings above, I would still highly recommend this book. I was bombarded with all kinds of emotions when I was reading it--joy, sadness, love.

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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!

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Book Signing + LA Times Book Festival 2016

Hi everyone! I thought I'd do something different today and talk about the book events I attended this past weekend.

The first event was Linda Thomas Sundstrom's book signing and release party at the Mysterious Galaxy bookstore in San Diego, CA on April 9. I love coming to the bookstore because of the intimate setting. I also love that they always have sweets whenever someone is signing!

Linda Thomas Sundstrom is known as the literary girl of paranormal romance because her books are so rich. A fun fact about her is that she also teaches Pilates and some of her students came to support her during the event.

Linda talked about having no control on her covers, and she told stories of which covers she preferred and even compared covers from different countries for the same book.

I might have fangirled a little bit when she mentioned me by name at least twice. Thanks for the shoutout, Linda!

Lastly, she mentioned that the most recent book she released and signed at the event, Immortal Redeemed, was one of her favorite books out of the 28 that she had already released. Congratulations on a successful writing career, Linda!

On April 10, me and my friend drove to USC in Los Angeles to attend the LA Times Book Festival. It was my first time and I honestly had a great time, even though I only went to a few booths and spent only an hour at the event.

I was mainly there so I could meet Carlene Love. We had previously chatted on Twitter and I was excited to finally meet her. She writes contemporary romance about rockstars and exotic dancers thrown into the real world apart from their careers. She was such a sweetheart and a joy to chat with.

The next author I met was Tracy Reed. She was very passionate about her books and really believed in them. It was quite inspirational to witness an author's pride about her books. We chatted for a long time and laughed as well. It was a pleasure to meet her and hope that we'll meet again soon--online or in person.

Overall, I enjoyed my time at the book festival. If you want to see what else I got up to plus interviews of the authors mentioned here, check out the video below!

Have you been to a book signing or a book festival before? 

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