Review: DRIVEN TO DISTRACTION by Lori Foster!!

 

My Review: Lori gets me every time!! I was so sad to see the Body Armor series end, but I knew it was time to move on. But like always, when Lori Foster shuts something down, she begins something even better - I always doubt that it's possible, and she always proves me wrong. And, and and! Our new hero is named Brodie - which, I have to say, is a name I absolutely love. It just sounds so sexy, right? And let me just tell you now, he lives up to the sexyness of his name.

Along with a hot hero, we get a fantastic story, here. Once again, Lori Foster proves she deserves her bestseller rank with amazing characterization, a plot that can really suck you in, and suspense that leaves you on the edge of your seat. She's one of the best authors out there when it comes to seamlessly weaving in a complex and engaging plot with a true romance and some serious steam. I can always feel the connection between her characters, and Driven to Distraction is no different. I can't wait for more!!

Cover Lovin': A Lori Foster classic!

Recommendation: Beginning of a new series to love!

Final Rating: FOUR out of FIVE stars (4/5)!! Another truly awesome book by Lori Foster, and I cannot wait for more!

From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Lori Foster comes DRIVEN TO DISTRACTION, the first in Lori’s sizzling new Road to Love series! Grab your copy today!

 

DRIVEN TO DISTRACTION Synopsis:

When desire gets this hot, you’d better buckle up…

Mary Daniels doesn’t let anything get in the way of her job acquiring rare artifacts for her wealthy boss. But this particular obstacle—huge, hard-muscled, unashamedly masculine—is impossible to ignore. Stuck in a cramped car with Brodie Crewsfor hours en route to their new assignment, Mary feels her carefully crafted persona—and her trademark self-control—is slipping, and she won’t allow it.

Brodie can’t imagine what secret in Mary’s past has left her so buttoned-up, though he’d dearly love to find out. Maybe then she’d trust him enough to explore their explosive chemistry. But he needs this job, so he’ll play by her rules and bide his time…until an enemy determined to outwit them strikes and he needs to get close—in every way—to protect her. Otherwise they could lose much more than a precious collectible. They could lose it all.

 

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    EXCERPT: As he wove them seamlessly through the traffic, off an exit ramp, along a short drive through a commercial area, then back onto the expressway again, Mary had a revelation: everything about Brodie Crews was over the top. His rugged good looks. His teasing manner. His frank way of speaking. And now, she had to add, his skill at driving. He maneuvered with ease, weaving through traffic without speeding, seeming to find his way in and out of communities instinctively, all the while being completely relaxed. In fact, if it hadn’t been for seeing his anger at the men who’d approached his car, she would wonder if Brodie Crews took anything seriously. For the rest of the drive, she helped keep watch but she didn’t spot the SUV again. Finally, she could relax too. “I think you lost them.” He shot her a look of comical indignation. “You had doubts?” Not really. And for some absurd reason, she was proud of him. What would he think if she told him that? He’d probably make a few more jokes, laugh it off, and continue being outrageous. Belatedly, she answered him. “No.” “No?” “I didn’t have any real doubts.” “Good. Because my guess is that they’ll somehow catch up to us on the way back. I mean, if they’re following, the whole point would be to steal from us whatever your boss bought, right?” That was always a possibility. There’d been other times where she and a driver were waylaid, the goods stolen, and she’d had to go back to Therman empty-handed. She would avoid that as best she could. “Yes, it’s possible.” Cavalier, somewhat cocky, he said, “Hey, don’t sweat it. I’ll make sure we make the delivery, and on time, too.” Mary appreciated his confidence because it boosted her own—especially as they left the highway for the less traveled roads that would take them to their destination. Giving up her vigilance, she watched Brodie instead. His relaxed posture belied the alert way he took in his surroundings. She realized that he knew trouble could happen, but also believed that he could handle it. Astounding. She’d never known a man so convincingly capable. She’d call him arrogant, except that he was so big, so powerful and formidably hard all over, it was easy to believe he could handle just about everything that might come their way. Thinking that warmed her and she slipped off her button-up shirt, leaving her in the thin tank top, her arms exposed to the cooler air-conditioning. That helped, but not enough. Especially when she knew that Brodie noted her every movement, even though he wasn’t obvious about it. More heat uncurled from deep inside her, making her breasts feel heavy, her inner thighs tight. It was an un familiar heat, but she recognized it for what it was—base lust. For Brodie. Insane. Ill-advised. But apparently unavoidable. Before she did something stupid, it seemed wise to distract herself by ensuring Brodie understood every possibility. “They could have been following us for another reason.” “Yeah?” He pulled up to a red light and, after checking the traffic in every direction, turned to look at her. “What’s that?” Having that dark, direct gaze aimed at her didn’t help to redirect her thoughts. His eyelashes were almost girly, they were so thick and dark, but Brodie was more elementally male than any man she’d ever met. He quirked a brow. “If we were anywhere else, I’d take that as an invitation.” As if coming out of a trance, she blinked. “What?” “The way you’re looking at me?” His voice was deep, a little rough. “That usually means—” “They may just want to rule out what Therman is getting,” she blurted, cutting him off. Dear God, she had been staring at him like a starving woman. She almost considered putting her button-up shirt back on, just to make sure he didn’t misunderstand. But maybe that would be even more obvious, displaying her uncertainty in situations like this. “They?” he asked, his supercilious brow still up. “The men following us.” She jumped on the topic, hoping to talk past her own embarrassment. She wanted him, really wanted him, and it didn’t make any sense at all. She tried for her confident smile. “There are several collectors who want the same items. Usually whoever is willing to pay the most comes out the victor.” He grinned. “Sounds like some serious sport.” “Oh, believe me, collectors take it very seriously.” Needlessly, she checked her hair, smoothed her skirt, and overall squirmed over her own revelations. She’d been forever without a man. Why now, and why him? She didn’t have any answers; she only knew that he was off limits. Damn.  

  About Lori Foster: Since first publishing in January 1996, Lori Foster has become a USA Today, Publisher’s Weekly and New York Times bestselling author. Lori has published through a variety of houses, including Kensington, St. Martin’s, Harlequin, Silhouette, Samhain, and Berkley/Jove. She is currently published with HQN. Visit her online at LoriFoster.com.        

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Review & Excerpt: STRONG by Kylie Scott!

   

My Review: I'm sure I'm not the first to say that man, I super hated Martha throughout the series. But we were supposed to! So I was nervous when I heard she was getting her own story. I know Kylie Scott can make me love anything though, so I was more than ready to see how she could pull this off... and she did! Plus, I really wanted to see Sam get a happy ending, he deserved this.

So, I'm going to consider this a slow burn romance, but really only on Sam's part. He knew a decade ago that Martha was what he wanted, and man, was he patient. And there's just something so hot about a man who knows what he wants, is willing to wait until the right moment to make his move, and has a plan in place. And plan, indeed! Not that Martha was going to let herself be managed. But these two played well off each other. Martha needed someone to push back, and Sam knows to pick his battles.

Cover Lovin': 1001 Dark Nights Classic

Recommendation: Can be read as a stand-alone, but I highly recommend the series because it is one of my all-time favorites!

Final Rating: FOUR out of FIVE stars (4/5)!! I love a redemption story, and a slow burn - best of both worlds.

 

From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Kylie Scott comes a new story in her Stage Dive series… When the girl of your dreams is kind of a nightmare. As head of security to Stage Dive, one of the biggest rock bands in the world, Sam Knowles has plenty of experience dealing with trouble. But spoilt brat Martha Nicholson just might be the worst thing he’s ever encountered. The beautiful troublemaker claims to have reformed, but Sam knows better than to think with what’s in his pants. Unfortunately, it’s not so easy to make his heart fall into line. Martha’s had her sights on the seriously built bodyguard for years. Quiet and conservative, he’s not even remotely her type. So why the hell can’t she get him out of her mind? There’s more to her than the Louboutin wearing party-girl of previous years, however. Maybe it’s time to let him in on that fact and deal with this thing between them. **Every 1001 Dark Nights novella is a standalone story. For new readers, it’s an introduction to an author’s world. And for fans, it’s a bonus book in the author’s series. We hope you'll enjoy each one as much as we do.**    

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EXCERPT

 “Ooh, busted,” said Lizzy. “The bodyguard caught you looking.” “Shut it.” I inched my chin up a bit, trying not to frown because frowning gave you lines. “Sam and I have known each other for years and nothing has ever happened. You’re completely wrong about this.” “Am I?” “Yes, there’s nothing between us.” “So that’s why you were staring at him?” I chose not to answer that. “And you know he prefers to be called executive protection officer instead of bodyguard.” At this, Lizzy burst out giggling, a malicious glee in her eyes. No wonder I liked my sister-in-law these days. Ben shot us both an irritated glance. We both ignored it. Of course, I’d known Sam would probably be here. Rock stars going out in public could be a delicate thing. People had a tendency to get overexcited. And while one person wanting an autograph wasn’t a problem, twenty or thirty of them suddenly swarming definitely could be. Having once been part of the entourage, I’d seen it happen to Ben and his fellow Stage Dive band members enough times to be wary. And you couldn’t get by with ordinary security. Rock stars needed protection from their over-zealous fans, but on the other hand they didn’t want the fans roughed up or hurt in any way. It required a delicate balance: control, experience, and a whole gamut of scary physical skills. Hence Sam. Still, Portland seemed generally less crazy than the good old days back in LA. All of the guys seemed calmer and more settled away from the constant craziness of the party scene. Not to mention the effect of all of the wives/partners and various offspring. The biggest rock band in the world had officially been domesticated. It was kind of cute. Or sad. I don’t know. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to stir you,” she lied. “What do you think of your brother’s new musical bromance?” On the small stage set up in the corner of the room, a young man wailed his heart out while playing an acoustic guitar. Much angst about a girl who only called him after midnight. Trust a rockster to turn a simple booty call into a heartbreaking ballad. The song was damn good though. He had talent. If only I hadn’t had my fill of the type when I was younger. The kid looked to be in his early to mid-twenties. Lanky with lots of tattoos. Your typical rock ’n roll Prince Charming. Gag. These days my type ran more toward…actually, what I needed or wanted in a male was a total mystery. And my gaze did not stray back to Sam. That did not happen.         Kylie is a New York Times and USA Today best-selling author. She was voted Australian Romance Writer of the year, 2013 & 2014, by the Australian Romance Writer’s Association and her books have been translated into eleven different languages. She is a long time fan of romance, rock music, and B-grade horror films. Based in Queensland, Australia with her two children and husband, she reads, writes and never dithers around on the internet. You can learn more about Kylie from http://www.kylie-scott.com/ FACEBOOK | FACEBOOK FAN GROUP | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | GOODREADS

Review: HOT WINTER NIGHTS by Jill Shalvis!

Release Date: 9-24-2018

Type: Contemporary, Romance, Series, Book 6, Christmas/Seasonal/Holiday

About the Book: Who needs mistletoe? 

Most people wouldn't think of a bad Santa case as the perfect Christmas gift. Then again, Molly Malone, office manager at Hunt Investigations, isn't most people, and she could really use a distraction from the fantasies she's been having since spending the night with her very secret crush, Lucas Knight. Nothing happened, not that Lucas knows that — but Molly just wants to enjoy being a little naughty for once...

Whiskey and pain meds for almost-healed bullet wounds don't mix. Lucas needs to remember that next time he's shot on the job, which may be sooner rather than later if Molly's brother, Joe, finds out about them. Lucas can't believe he's drawing a blank on his (supposedly) passionate tryst with Molly, who's the hottest, smartest, strongest woman he's ever known. Strong enough to kick his butt if she discovers he's been assigned to babysit her on her first case. And hot enough to melt his cold heart this Christmas.

My Review: Jill Shalvis is one of those authors that I always enjoy, but every time I pick up a new book by her, I'm reminded just how much I love her, and how perfectly sweet her stories are. Her heroes are hot, her heroines are women I respect and would gladly be friends with, and the drama is genuine. From the first scene - the awkward wake up with no idea how he got into bed with her - to the ending, I was hooked.

 This is technically a best friends-younger-sister romance, though Molly is Lucas' partner's sister, not necessarily his best friend. Both Lucas and Molly are damaged and closed off in their own ways, but you can see both of them start to open up when they're around each other. And the teasing.. I loved whenever they teased each other. It was so cute, fun, and usually - very hot. This was an awesome story, and I loved every second of it!

Cover Lovin': So cute and sweet!

Recommendation: Even though it's book six, it can be read as stand alone. 

Final Rating: FIVE out of FIVE stars (5/5)!! Jill Shalvis remains one of my go-to's for a solid, feel-good romance. 

Review: MEMENTO MORI by Lexi Blake!

   

My Review: Lexi Blake does it every time, I swear. It's like she can't not write a book that has me glued the whole way through. And I don't know what she does better, the suspense or the steamy stuff. Luckily, I don't have to choose because she always manages to pack both into all of her books, and Memento Mori is no exception. 

I won't say this is my all time favorite Blake book.. but it's pretty high up there. I thought the characterization was spot on, and I absolutely loved River and Jax together. There's just something so right about their relationship. I may want a Jax of my own, but I guess if I can't have him myself, I can wish him happiness with River. I'm definitely looking forward to more in this series - as always, Blake has me hooked!

Cover Lovin': Sexy, yet dangerous.

Recommendation: Some knowledge of Lexi Blake's other series is helpful, but not required.

Final Rating: FOUR out of FIVE stars (4/5)!!! 

   Six men with no memories of the past One leader with no hope for the future A man without a past Jax woke up in a lab, his memories erased, and his mind reprogrammed to serve a mad woman’s will. After being liberated from his prison, he pledged himself to the only thing he truly knows—his team. Six men who lost everything they were. They must make certain no one else gets their hands on the drugs that stole their lives, all while hiding from every intelligence organization on the planet. The trail has led him to an unforgiving mountainside and a beautiful wilderness expert who may be his only hope of finding the truth. A woman with a bright future River Lee knows her way around the Colorado wilderness. She’s finally found a home in a place called Bliss after years lost in darkness. The nature guide prefers to show her clients the beauty found in the land, but she also knows the secrets the mountains hold. When she meets Jax, something about the troubled man calls to her. She agrees to lead him to the site of an abandoned government facility hidden deep in the forest. She never dreamed she was stepping into the middle of a battlefield. A love that could heal a broken soul Spending time with River, Jax discovers a peace he’s never known. Their passion unlocks a side of himself he didn’t even know he was missing. When an old enemy makes his first move, Jax and River find themselves fighting for their lives. But when his past is revealed, will River be caught in the crosshairs of a global conspiracy?    

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            “This place is beautiful,” he said when she hesitated. She nodded but didn’t move from her seat. “I love it here. I went to college in Denver, but I always missed this place. When I was younger, my dad had a house in Creede. He started the business there, but when he could, he moved us out of town. My dad was a loner, I suppose. Creede has a population of four hundred and Dad thought that was way too many people.” “I know the feeling. I lived in London for a while. That was definitely too many people.” He kept his tone even. It was odd. Now that he was here, that hunger he always felt was tempered by her fear. He’d thought he would take anything offered to him, but he couldn’t having met her. If the blonde had offered herself up, he would have turned her down. Over the two hours they’d sat in the booth, eating fried food and drinking beer, he’d figured something out. Some people were more special than others. River was special. He should be more cynical. He could hear Damon Knight telling him to be cautious, but he couldn’t make himself do it. Perhaps it was the fact that he didn’t have a long well of history to draw from and to teach him that this was likely a mistake. It didn’t feel like a mistake. “Wow. I’ve never been farther than Kansas City.” She still wasn’t moving and her voice had taken on a tremulous tone. His heart constricted, and it was surprisingly easy to not listen to his dick. His dick was pleading with him to get aggressive. His dick was trying to convince him that if he could get inside her, she would accept him. Yeah, he wasn’t going to listen to his dick. “If you’ve changed your mind, I can call my brother to pick me up. I have a phone and so does he. His number is programmed in. I don’t want to scare you. I had a good time talking to you tonight. It was one of the nicest nights I’ve had in a long time.” Ever. It was the best night ever. It was the first night he felt normal, though he wasn’t exactly sure what that word meant. Comfortable was a better one. That tight feeling in his chest had eased as he’d sat in the booth with River and Tucker and Heather. Although he’d hated lying to her. She finally turned, looking at him. Her eyes shone in the moonlight. “You mean that, don’t you?” He wanted to touch her. He’d had to force his hands not to move toward her all night long. The most he’d allowed himself was to have their hips and shoulders touch as they’d sat next to each other. He’d decided it had been a good thing he’d sat next to her because he was fairly certain he had a case of Big Tag’s crazy eyes, and she would have seen them had he sat across from her. “I do mean it. Please don’t get me wrong. I want you. I would like nothing more in the world than to take you into that cabin, lay you out, and make a feast of you. I want to kiss you and when I say that I don’t merely mean your lips. I want to put my mouth all over your body. But more than I want that, I want you to like me.” It was important somehow. He wouldn’t see her after tonight, but he couldn’t stand the idea that she was afraid of him. Everyone was afraid of him. Everyone he knew was waiting for his powder keg to blow, but he’d sworn to himself earlier in the evening that it wouldn’t blow around her. He would protect her even if it was only for one night.        

NY Times and USA Today bestselling author Lexi Blake lives in North Texas with her husband, three kids, and the laziest rescue dog in the world. She began writing at a young age, concentrating on plays and journalism. It wasn’t until she started writing romance and urban fantasy that she found the stories of her heart. She likes to find humor in the strangest places and believes in happy endings no matter how odd the couple, threesome, or foursome may seem.

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Review: IT SEEMED LIKE A GOOD IDEA AT THE TIME by Kylie Scott!

Release Date: August 7th, 2018

About the Book: Returning home for her father’s wedding was never going to be easy for Adele. If being sent away at eighteen hadn’t been bad enough, the mess she left behind when she made a pass at her dad’s business partner sure was.

Fifteen years older than her, Pete had been her crush for as long as she could remember. But she’d misread the situation—confusing friendliness for undying love. Awkward. Add her father to the misunderstanding, and Pete had been left with a broken nose and a business on the edge of ruin. The man had to be just as glad as everyone else when she left town.

Seven years on, things are different. Adele is no longer a kid, but a fully grown adult more than capable of getting through the wedding and being polite. But all it takes is seeing him again to bring back all those old feelings.

Sometimes first loves are the truest.

My Review: Sometimes I want something a little different - still romance, but has a different feel, or an author I love trying something new - and that's why I think I liked this so much. There's the usual Kylie Scott humor, which I greatly appreciate..  but I could see her moving outside of her normal tropes. And for me, this worked. I can see how some people aren't the biggest fans - because there is a definite age difference, and they met when she was 16. But I think Kylie Scott did it right.

As I said, I really liked this. I didn't want to stop reading. All I could think about while I was at work was getting back to this book, and finding out what would happened. I liked Adele's attitude, especially when she decided she wasn't taking any of Pete's crap anymore. And Pete certainly had his fine moments as well... but he also frustrated me. I can see why he'd need a younger woman, considering how immature he could be, emotionally.

This doesn't beat out Trust and Lead when it comes to my top favorites... but it's great all the same.

Cover Lovin': Oh my... yes, well done!

Recommendation: Not for everyone due to the age gap, but definitely worth a read if you like to change things up now and again.

Final Rating: FOUR out of FIVE stars (4/5)!!! An emotional, yet fun, read. Honestly, seeing Adele grow into herself and realize what she was and wasn't willing to deal with makes this worth reading. But I think the romance was great as well.

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Happy Reading!

~!~ Amanda, Novel Addiction ~!~

Review: BEDFELLOWS by Lola Leighton!

 
My Review: I'm sold! We're living in 2018, so nontraditional relationships should be readily accepted. I mean, heck.. if I could have Will and Sullivan, I would jump at the chance. I've read some menage books in the past, but it was mostly about the... ahem, erotic aspect. But Bedfellows, while it definitely has the hot stuff, is so much... sweeter, I guess is the best term. There are a lot of emotions involved, this is so much deeper than any others I've read.

Considering this author's pseudonym, I knew I'd love the book. And I knew it would be hot. But I loved seeing this different side of a favorite author. She's stretching her wings, and she did a fantastic job. I'd love to see her do even more like this in the future. I hope this isn't a one-off for the Lola Leighton name! Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go off and dream about my very own relationship with Will and Sullivan...

Cover Lovin': Just a hint of hotness!

Recommendation: You need to like your books with a little extra spice.

Final Rating: FOUR out of FIVE stars (4/5)!! Loved this! I hope this author chooses to write more like this in the future. It was hot and original, a truly winning combination!

      I wasn't looking to fall for one man. Let alone two... Sullivan and Will are as close as two friends can be. Growing up in the system forced them to rely on each other, and they've become accustomed to sharing everything—including women. Now they're ready for more. To find love. To start a family. To see the dreams they've shared since childhood come true. Apparently I tick off every box on their list—brains, beauty, and sass. I never hesitate to put both men in their places—which they find sexy as hell. One problem, I'm a traditional girl, with traditional values—one man, one woman, till death do us part—kind of values. They're willing to work to prove how very right the three of us could be, but what happens next is anyone's guess...   ADD TO GOODREADS    

“Tonight has been great, Sullivan. It's just, when I think about adding Will into the equation, I get …”

“Scared?”

She shook her head. “Butterflies.”

“Butterflies are good, right?”

“I think so.” Her voice was barely above a whisper. I leaned in closer, captivated by her. Everything about her drew me in—from the swell of her full lips, to her uncertainty about this, and especially her willingness to try.

“He's not here now. Put the butterflies away.”

“Okay.” She smiled.

I leaned in closer. “I've wanted to kiss you all night.”

She wet her lower lip with the tip of her tongue and it was all the answer I needed. She wanted this, too. Wanted me.

My heart pumped faster with that secret knowledge.

Tilting her chin so that her lips met mine, I took her mouth. Gently at first, and then with a growing sense of hunger as her warm, wet tongue came out to meet mine.

She tasted incredible. Slightly sweet from the wine, and feminine and simply perfect.

        Lola Leighton is the pseudonym for a New York Times bestselling romance author who wanted to write steamier stories that her mother is most definitely not allowed to read. FACEBOOK | GOODREADS | NEWSLETTER

Release Day: BEDFELLOWS by Lola Leighton!

        I wasn't looking to fall for one man. Let alone two... Sullivan and Will are as close as two friends can be. Growing up in the system forced them to rely on each other, and they've become accustomed to sharing everything—including women. Now they're ready for more. To find love. To start a family. To see the dreams they've shared since childhood come true. Apparently I tick off every box on their list—brains, beauty, and sass. I never hesitate to put both men in their places—which they find sexy as hell. One problem, I'm a traditional girl, with traditional values—one man, one woman, till death do us part—kind of values. They're willing to work to prove how very right the three of us could be, but what happens next is anyone's guess...   ADD TO GOODREADS    

“Tonight has been great, Sullivan. It's just, when I think about adding Will into the equation, I get …”

“Scared?”

She shook her head. “Butterflies.”

“Butterflies are good, right?”

“I think so.” Her voice was barely above a whisper. I leaned in closer, captivated by her. Everything about her drew me in—from the swell of her full lips, to her uncertainty about this, and especially her willingness to try.

“He's not here now. Put the butterflies away.”

“Okay.” She smiled.

I leaned in closer. “I've wanted to kiss you all night.”

She wet her lower lip with the tip of her tongue and it was all the answer I needed. She wanted this, too. Wanted me.

My heart pumped faster with that secret knowledge.

Tilting her chin so that her lips met mine, I took her mouth. Gently at first, and then with a growing sense of hunger as her warm, wet tongue came out to meet mine.

She tasted incredible. Slightly sweet from the wine, and feminine and simply perfect.

        Lola Leighton is the pseudonym for a New York Times bestselling romance author who wanted to write steamier stories that her mother is most definitely not allowed to read. FACEBOOK | GOODREADS | NEWSLETTER

Review: COOPER'S CHARM by Lori Foster!

Out Now!

About the book: 

One summer, two sisters and a chance to start over…

Before the burglary that shattered her confidence, Phoenix Rose had a fiancé, a successful store and a busy, happy existence. After months spent adrift, she takes a job at the lakeside resort of Cooper’s Charm. Surrounded by beautiful scenery, friendly colleagues and a charismatic, widowed boss, Phoenix is slowly inching her way back into the world.

Visiting Cooper’s Charm to check up on her little sister, Ridley Rose impulsively agrees to fill in as housekeeper. Still reeling from an ego-bruising divorce, she finds satisfaction in a job well done—and in the attention of the resort’s handsome scuba instructor.

For Phoenix and Ridley, Cooper’s Charm is supposed to be merely temporary. But this detour may lead to the place they most need to be, where the future is as satisfying as it is surprising…

My Review:  This is exactly the kind of book I needed to break up the monotony of the same old same old. There's certainly something great about an alpha male.. but Cooper is the epitome of a perfect man. Not bossy, doesn't assume he always knows best, protective but not overbearing... just a real, good, solid man. And I think I'm in love.

My all time favorite Lori Foster book (so far!) is Don't Tempt Me, and this book had a similar enough feel that I was sucked in right away. Coopers Charm, the place not the book, has that perfect small town/close community feel, and I felt like I was at home while reading.  Cooper really made this book for me, but Phoenix was a super close second. I just wanted to be her friend, support her, and watch her come out of her shell. The cast of secondary characters are amazing as well, and I just want to be a part of their self-made family. And as a bonus - there's a secondary romance blossoming during the course of the story as well!!

Cover Lovin': Perfectly idyllic and contemporary.

Recommendation: Another awesome series starter from Lori Foster! I can't wait for more.

Final Rating: FIVE out of FIVE stars (5/5)!!! Another book that proves Lori Foster is the queen! I think it's my new favorite!

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Review: FAST BURN by Lori Foster!

Release Date: March 20th, 2018.

About the Book: For the woman who’s his perfect match, he’s willing to break the rules…

The moment Brand Berry meets beautiful, driven Sahara Silver, the connection between them is electric. It’s also something he can’t pursue. Sahara wants him, sure—to join Body Armor, where his MMA skills, size and cocky attitude make him perfect for her elite crew of bodyguards. For Sahara, the agency always comes first, and Brand needs more. Yet when she’s kidnapped by men searching for her missing brother, he doesn’t hesitate.

Somewhere along the way, flirting with Brand for the sake of business turned very personal. Despite his refusal to join Body Armor, it’s Brand who steps up when Sahara needs him most. Now there’s no more time for games, and no point denying the hunger they both feel. They’ll escape together or not at all. But if they survive, can Sahara finally surrender control to claim this blazing passion? [From Goodreads.com]

My Review: Yay, we finally get Sahara's story!! She's a take-charge, take-no-prisoners sort of woman, and it shows. She's been my favorite secondary character throughout the whole series, and I fell in love with her even more during her own story. And considering how strong of a personality she has, I knew she'd need an equally strong man to match her.. and Brand is so very much that man. I can't believe this is the final book in the Body Armor series, but way to end things with a bang!

I think this might be my favorite of the series, but.. I still love, love, love Justice. So maybe this is a very close second. This story is so dynamic - plenty of suspense, plenty of hot scenes, and it's a roller coaster of a read. I can't recommend Fast Burn highly enough, or this author highly enough! Lori Foster is the queen of contemporary romance, and she needs to be on your to-read list.. And Fast Burn should move right to the top!

Cover Lovin': Two thumbs up!

Recommendation: I suggest checking out the previous books in the series, but this can work on its own.

Final Rating: FIVE out of FIVE stars (5/5)!! I love Lori Foster - and this is her at her best! Totally worth the read!

Happy Reading!

~!~ Amanda, Novel Addiction ~!~

Disclaimer: I received a copy in exchange for a review.

Pre-order your copy now: FAST BURN by Lori Foster!

FAST BURN releases March 20th! Order your copy now.

Review: CLOSE CONTACT by Lori Foster!

My Review: This series is like the best of both worlds - fighters and bodyguards. Lori Foster's heroes are always delicious, and while Justice still remains my favorite from the Body Armor series, Miles has made himself a very close second. Close Contact is instantly engrossing, since we open with Maxi awaking in her yard with no memory of the previous night, and no idea how she got outside and on the ground. She may not remember what happened, but she does remember that Miles always made her feel safe - so she knows exactly where to turn when she thinks her life is in danger. 

I think the suspense angle in this book is my favorite of the series so far. I was intrigued as soon as Maxi shared her story - things going missing, stuff suddenly in a different place the next day, etc. I had to know what happened, making this book hard to put down - which is always a great sign. I'll admit Maxi made me frustrated more than a few times, and she was my biggest issue with the book. I needed her to come to her senses about Miles so much faster than she did. But this is Lori Foster, after all, and everyone will get their happy ending, exactly when they're meant to, and not a moment before! 

Cover Lovin': Oh my, yes!

Recommendation: This can be read as a stand-alone. But I suggest reading the rest of the series because they're all so good.

Final Rating: FOUR out of FIVE stars (4/5)! Another amazing read by one of my favorite authors. I can't wait for the next one!

About the Book: 

There’s no resisting a desire like this…

MMA fighter Miles Dartman’s casual arrangement with personal shopper Maxi Nevar would be many men’s fantasy. She seeks him out, they have mindblowing sex, she leaves. Rinse, repeat. Yet lately, Miles wants more. And when Maxi requests his services via the Body Armor security agency, he’s ready to finally break through her defenses—and protect her day and night.

Receiving a large inheritance has brought chaos and uncertainty into Maxi’s life. Her ex has resurfaced, along with lots of former “friends,” and someone is making mysterious threats. Then there’s Miles, who doesn’t ask for anything…except her trust. Pleasure is easy. Now Maxi has to give her heart as well as her body…or risk losing a man who could be everything she needs.

Where to buy it: 

Amazon

Barnes & Noble

iTunes

Google Books

The series so far...

Under Pressure (my review)

Hard Justice (my review)

Close Contact

Fast Burn (expected release March 2018)

Happy Reading!

~!~ Amanda, Novel Addiction ~!~

Disclaimer: I received a copy for review. 

Review: WORTH THE WAIT by Lori Foster!

Release Date: July 25th, 2017

Reading Order:
Book 1: Don't Tempt Me - See my review HERE!
Book 2: Worth The Wait

My Review: I am going to start this review by stating how much I love Hogan and Colt. Hogan is fantastic, and made me like the whole single-dad trend, which was never one of my interests before. And Colt.. Colt was absolutely perfect, and well written. Sometimes it's hard to write a believable teenager/young adult, but Lori Foster is a wonderful writer, and proves she can do anything - even write the perfect teenager.

Now to what I wasn't a huge fan of - Violet. I tried to like her, but she just seemed so self-serving. There were times I didn't really believe she liked Hogan, it just felt like she wanted him for what he could do for her or the diner. There were elements of their story that were cute and sweet, but the majority of the time, Violet just felt like a jerk to me.

Like with the first book, there was a secondary romance happening alongside the main couple. I think Nathan and Brooklin's story was probably the better one. I loved these two together, and it was so good to see Nathan get a happy ending, which was something I was hoping for since the first book. And as good as that secondary romance plot was, the small third romance was even better - Colt gets his own chance at love! And maybe he deserves a happily ever after most of all.

I loved Don't Tempt Me so much, so that could be why this book felt like such a let down in comparison. I think this is the first Lori Foster book I've read that hasn't gotten a four or five star rating. She remains one of my favorite authors, but I have to say I was disappointed with this book.

About the book: Single dad Hogan Guthrie is getting his life back on track, and working as the "barbecue master" at a local diner is just a temporary detour. He and restaurant owner Violet Shaw constantly butt heads…until one night they end up mingling other parts instead. Hogan thought he had the recipe for happiness all figured out. But loyal, carefree Violet is daring him to trust his impulses…and see just how sweet small-town living—and loving—can be.

Nathan Hawley traded his SWAT team credentials for a sheriff's badge, but a gorgeous new neighbor is shaking up his orderly life. Nathan has a hunch there's more to Brooklin Sweet than meets the eye—but given her caution about getting involved, he has his work cut out for him. Still, there's something about the elusive beauty Nathan can't walk away from—and helping her come to terms with her past might pave the way to the future they both secretly long for.

Cover Lovin': An excellent cover, and works perfectly with the first book.

Recommendation: Worth The Wait can work just fine as a stand-alone, but I personally recommend reading Don't Tempt Me because it was so good!

Final Rating: THREE POINT FIVE out of FIVE stars (3.5/5)! A little bit of a let down after the first book, but the secondary characters and their romances definitely make this worth a read.

Get your copy of Don't Tempt Me and Worth The Wait today!

Happy Reading!

~!~ Amanda, Novel Addiction ~!~

Disclaimer: I received a copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.

Review: HARD JUSTICE by Lori Foster!

Release Date: March 21st, 2017

Type: Contemporary Romance, Romantic Suspense, Former-Fighter, Series, Book 2

Series in Order:Under Pressure (January 2017)
Hard Justice (March 2017)

About the Book: Justice Wallington knows how to harness his strength and intimidating size—skills he put to good use first in the MMA cage, and now as a bodyguard at the Body Armor agency. But no opponent has ever left him feeling as off balance as his new client, heiress Fallon Wade. Far from a spoiled princess, she's sweet and intriguingly innocent. It's a risk-free assignment, until he's required to fake a relationship with her in order to blend in. 

Sheltered from the world after a family tragedy, Fallon longs to experience life—going to bars, dancing, talking to strangers. Not easy with a huge, lethal-looking bodyguard shadowing her every move. Justice seems like her polar opposite, but pretending to be a couple stirs undeniable heat. And when danger strikes again, it's not just her safety in jeopardy, but a passion that's real, raw and absolutely against the rules… [Synopsis from Goodreads.com]

My Review: Every time Lori Foster comes out with a new book, I like it more than the previous one. They're just always so good. But guys, this is it. I've found my all-time favorite Lori Foster book, ever. Justice is perfect. I lost myself while I was reading this. I got so into the story, into Fallon and Justice's relationship, that this book just flew by. It's hard to explain, but I think this was the smoothest/most seamless Foster book I've read yet. Even if I wasn't too familiar with all the characters (I wasn't a dedicated reader until the Ultimate series), this still just flowed beautifully.

There was just enough suspense in this book to add an edge to Justice's job. It moved the story along, but it didn't overshadow the romance that was building. And you could actual feel these two coming together. These two are perfect together, and I just want to coo and gush all over them. If you're a long-time reader of Lori Foster's books, you'll be happy to see former characters show up and help out, or just hang out. And there's several more unattached characters I hope get their story soon!

Cover Lovin': Heck yes. And I appreciate that they went with a muscle-y cover guy, since Justice is definitely all muscles. Yum.

Recommendation: Hard Justice can be read as a stand alone. But you'll want to read Under Pressure because it's just so good.

Final Rating: FIVE out of FIVE stars (5/5)! Loved this, every second of it. I didn't want to put it down, and I'm desperate for more.

Get your copies from Amazon.com today!

Happy Reading!

~!~ Amanda, Novel Addiction ~!~

Disclaimer: I received an advanced copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.

Release Blitz & Excerpt: UNDER PRESSURE by Lori Foster!

   

PASSIONS ARE READY TO POP IN THIS STEAMY NEW ROMANTIC THRILLER FROM AWARD WINNING BESTSELLING AUTHOR LORI FOSTER

From New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author Lori Foster comes UNDER PRESSURE, the first book in her brand-new Body Armor series, featuring her trademark alpha-male heroes and strong-willed heroines, who risk everything to save one another from the deadly forces that seek to destroy them.

EXCERPT:

Cat couldn’t look at him. She felt ridiculous.

And pretty wonderful.

She wanted him. And that worried her.

Moving on would be for the best. But where? And how?

And damn it, she didn’t want to go. She wanted to snuggle up with him again. She wanted the unaccount­able peace of mind he afforded her. Why he afforded it, she had no idea.

This morning, crowds filled the lobby and she real­ized what she hadn’t last night: she looked terrible. In the nice hotel, most were dressed in expensive coats and leather boots, their hair salon-styled, their manners impeccable.

Standing to her right, Justice again hauled her big, broken suitcase and that made them stand out like a sore thumb. Not because of the guys, but because of her.

At her other side, Leese took her arm, drawing more than a few probing stares. “Ready?”

Did he touch her so she wouldn’t feel so out of place? Probably. She wouldn’t put much past him.

Or maybe the crowds made him as nervous as they made her. She could practically feel people watching, but with menace, disdain for her downtrodden appearance or curiosity given her man-candy bookends?

Maybe he thought she’d run if he didn’t hold on to her.

Or maybe he felt the same remainder of simmering intimacy that kept her too warm. She’d slept with him—and loved it.

“Cat?”

She realized both Leese and Justice watched her. With a subdued nod, she allowed them to lead her outside.

Crisp, cold air filled the parking garage, undisturbed by the morning sunshine. She’d left her hair down to help keep her ears warm, and dressed in a bulky sweater over a long-sleeved T-shirt, jeans, thick socks and the trusted boots.

Still she shivered.

Of course Leese noticed. “Start the car,” he told Jus­tice. “I’ll put the luggage away.”

“You riding in back again?”

Leese gave her a long, level look. “Yeah.”

Shoving her hands in the pockets of her coat and ducking her face, Cat said, “You don’t have to babysit me. I’m not going anywhere.” Probably.

“We have to talk, remember?” He brought up her chin. “That’ll be easier to do if I’m sitting with you.”

Insane that his fingers were warm despite the cold. “Suit yourself.”

“I think I will.”

   

Get your Copy of UNDER PRESSURE here!

Amazon * Kindle * Barnes & Noble * Nook * Book Depository

GooglePlay *iBooks * BAM * Kobo * IndieBound

UNDER PRESSURE Synopsis:

He can protect anything except his heart

Leese Phelps's road hasn't been an easy one, but it's brought him to the perfect job—working for the elite Body Armor security agency. And what his newest assignment lacks in size, she makes up for in fire and backbone. But being drawn to Catalina Nicholson is a dangerous complication, especially since it could be the very man who hired Leese who's threatening her.

What Catalina knows could get her killed. But who'd believe the sordid truth about her powerful stepfather? Beyond Leese's ripped body and brooding gaze is a man of impeccable honor. He's the last person she expects to trust—and the first who's ever made her feel safe. And he's the only one who can help her expose a deadly secret, if they can just stay alive long enough…

   

“Romantic thriller veteran Foster has been honing her skill for a long time, and it’s clear she’s at the top of her game here. Readers will find themselves, along with her colorful cast of supporting characters, rooting for a happy-ever-after.”

- Kirkus Reviews

“Teasing and humorous dialogue, sizzling sex scenes, tender moments, and overriding tension show Foster’s skill as a balanced storyteller. She sets up a continuing story line for the series with the mystery of who murdered the firm’s founder, Sahara’s brother, but this thread never overwhelms the gripping main story, which will leave readers breathless.”

- Publishers Weekly

   

Add it to your Goodreads Now!

   

“Foster writes an action-packed story that has everything her readers have come to love about her books…. Foster continues to prove why she is a mega-talent in the romance world!”

- Jennifer Wilson, RT Book Reviews

 

   

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    About Lori Foster: LORI FOSTER is a New York Times, USA TODAY and Publishers Weekly bestselling author of more than 55 titles, beloved for her contemporary romance novels revolving around alpha males and the women they fall for. Lori has been a recipient of the prestigious RT Book Reviews Career Achievement Award for Series Romantic Fantasy, and for Contemporary Romance. For more about Lori, visit her website at LoriFoster.com, or check out these online locations where she interacts with readers: Facebook.com/LoriFoster, Twitter.com/LoriLFoster, Goodreads and Pinterest.com/lorilfoster. You can also sign up for her monthly newsletter at LoriFoster.com/Newsletter.    

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Pinterest | YouTube

 

Review: UNDER PRESSURE by Lori Foster!

Release Date: January 24th, 2017

Type: Contemporary, Romantic Suspense, New Series, Book 1, That bodyguard can guard my body anytime!

About the Book:

He can protect anything except his heart

Leese Phelps’s road hasn’t been an easy one, but it’s brought him to the perfect job — working for the elite Body Armor security agency. And what his newest assignment lacks in size, she makes up for in fire and backbone. But being drawn to Catalina Nicholson is a dangerous complication, especially since it could be the very man who hired Leese who’s threatening her.

What Catalina knows could get her killed. But who’d believe the sordid truth about her powerful stepfather? Beyond Leese’s ripped body and brooding gaze is a man of impeccable honour. He’s the last person she expects to trust — and the first who’s ever made her feel safe. And he’s the only one who can help her expose a deadly secret, if they can just stay alive long enough... [Description from Goodreads.com]

My Review: I didn't know I was in the mood for a good romantic suspense until I picked this up. I was sucked in from the very beginning, since you dive right into the story. I devoured this in one-sitting - I had to know what was going to happen to Leese and Cat. Leese was a character I loved from the Ultimate series, and I was so happy to find out he was getting his own book. Despite his rocky start, he was really a good guy - and he proves that in Under Pressure. He's made mistakes, and he's doing his best to make up for it. And in my opinion, he succeeded and then some!

 My biggest issue was with Cat. I had a hard time getting into her character in the beginning, and there were a few times when I wanted to shake her until she got over herself and would tell Leese everything. I partially understand her motives - she thought she was keeping them safe. But if you want everyone to be safe, don't you think making sure they have enough information to prepare for what's coming is the best way to go?? As the book progressed, I got along with her better, and I think she really shined at the end. 

 My second favorite thing about this book (the first, of course, being Leese! And maybe Justice) is how it managed to follow that romantic suspense "script," but still felt different and original. You know how it's going to end, there's going to be a final showdown and the like, but getting to that point - and how it played out - was a surprise.  Now I am that much more eager for the next book - Hard Justice, coming in April!

Cover Lovin': Oh my, yes! Two thumbs up. 

Recommendation: Under Pressure is the beginning of the Body Armor series, so you can dive right in with no trouble. Though characters from earlier books by Lori Foster do show up, and Leese does have a history with them. 

 Final Rating: FOUR out of FIVE stars (4/5). This would have been a five star read, but my issues with Cat in the beginning knocked it down a star. But this book is 100% worth a read!

 Happy Reading!
~!~ Amanda, Novel Addiction ~!~

Disclaimer: I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.