August 27, 2014

REVIEW: Irresistible Force (A K-9 Rescue Novel) by D. D. Ayres

Irresistible Force (A K-9 Rescue Novel) by D. D. Ayres
Publication Date: August 26, 2014
Reviewed by: Reading In Pajamas/ Donna
Rated: 3.5 Stars

When adrenaline runs high, so does the force of desire…

For Shay Appleton, it’s love at first sight when a gorgeous stray dog is brought into the animal shelter where she works. She just knows he’ll make a terrific watch dog—and with an abusive ex who won’t let go, she needs all the protection she can get. But Shay never suspected that her new pet is actually a trained police K-9 named Bogart—until Bogart’s even more gorgeous, human partner shows up on her doorstep.

IRRESISTIBLE FORCE by D.D. Ayres

Officer James Cannon is one tall, strong alpha male who’s convinced that Shay stole his dog. But once he gets closer to the suspect, he realizes that this stubborn, independent woman not only needs a guard dog, she needs James as well. It seems that someone from her past is stalking her, and threatening her life. When danger meets desire, will James risk his career and his best friend…to protect the woman who’s stolen his heart?

This was a fun book full of excitement and danger. Bogart stole my heart right away and James was just perfect, but Shay ran hot and cold so much she left me a bit lukewarm. The story was fast paced and even though at times it seemed a little improbable, I realized that I enjoyed the ride. I’m marking this series down so I won’t miss the next one.

*Review copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Kindle $7.46 http://geni.us/28Ve | Amazon PBK $7.89 http://geni.us/1GTg | B&N $7.99 http://bit.ly/1pWf1km | Kobo $7.99 http://bit.ly/1tzbjxb

Posted in 3.5 Stars, Donna's Reviews, romance reviews, romantic suspense
Tagged D. D. Ayres, REVIEW: Irresistible Force (A K-9 Rescue Novel) by D. D. Ayres
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August 20, 2014

Spotlight & Review: Exchange of Fire (An SBG Novel) by P. A. DePaul

Exchange of Fire (An SBG Novel) by P. A. DePaul
Publication Date: August 19, 2014
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Donna
Rated: 4 Stars

Faking her death was easy, living with her past is harder, but nothing is more dangerous than falling in love…

Sandra Walsh was a deadly sniper for the Sweet Briar Group, a covert agency with assassins for hire, until her last mission went horribly wrong, accidentally killing an innocent girl. Knowing she’s a danger to her team, Sandra goes off the grid, becoming a Shade—an agent declared dead but secretly hiding among the living. She intends to honor her vow never to pull another trigger or have contact with the spy world again. Until she meets Casper Grady…

Grady is a former Marine with a troubled past and a debt to pay. His life mission has gone from protecting the nation to helping local children and their families. The moment he meets Sandra, he knows there’s more to her than meets the eye, but he can’t help but be drawn to the mysterious femme fatale. And when Sandra’s past suddenly catches up to her, Grady is determined to protect her at all costs, no matter how dark and dangerous her secrets are.

As the danger increases, so does their intense attraction. But when they’re forced to choose between each other and the people they’ve sworn to protect, their growing love might not be enough to keep them together—or alive…

I enjoyed this set-up to a new series and how the author introduced us to the players. The members of SBG are a fun mixture of personalities and I like that the author wrote about their transformation as part of this story. As for the romance, I wish that it was a little hotter and that I could have connected with Sandra more but the story was intriguing enough to make up for that. A few times I did have to re-read a paragraph to double check who said what but it was not enough to interrupt the overall flow of the story. I enjoyed this story and cannot wait for the next installment to see how things evolve.

*Review copy provided by Berkley/NAL in exchange for an honest review.

Kindle $4.27 http://amzn.to/1EKN1sr | B&N $4.99 http://bit.ly/1ApgTFE | Kobo $4.99 http://bit.ly/YlIHgj

Since P.A. DePaul first sounded out the words “See Spot run” and “See Jane walk,” she was hooked. Couple that with weekly trips to the library where she usually tried to get the maximum amount of books allowed, and watching both parents get lost in a book, you would think she’d get a clue that writing might be something she should investigate. But sadly, no. (She’s a little slow on the uptake.) After years of escaping into fantastical worlds in books, P.A. DePaul started to get an inkling in the back of her mind that she could probably create something fun too. But again, as she was slow to move on to anything concrete, the idea just continued to fester until she picked up J.R. Ward’s compendium, The Black Dagger Brotherhood: An Insider’s Guide. Eureka! The three-way bulb in her brain finally clicked higher than the dim-watt. When she finished reading the “Advice and FAQs” section, her hands shook and her palms got sweaty. After she blinked away the lightheaded feeling, she thought to herself, “I can do this. I’ve read enough books to know what’s out there and what’s popular. I’m gonna give it a try.” Then she sat in front of her computer, chin in her hand, and drummed her fingers. What to write about? Even though she loved reading about vampires, werewolves, shape-shifters, and witches, she realized she had nothing new to offer. Frustrated, but not daunted, she went to bed and woke up the next morning with an idea; a concept that refused to go away. A couple of failed manuscripts and storylines later, she finally got it right. (Though, in her mind, those first couple of manuscripts weren’t failures. They were learning tools to help her hone her writing and learn how to construct a storyline. Some of the characters you’ll come to love in the Guardian Security and Investigations series started in those original pages and she just couldn’t part with them. Don’t be surprised if one day, she dusts one of those off and works it so they’ll finally be in print.) Knowing she had a novel worth fighting for, she joined the Romance Writers of America (RWA) and entered it in four contests. She won third place in Utah Chapter’s Heart of the West Contest! Woohoo! Confirmation she was on to something. P.A. DePaul originally hails from Carroll County and Baltimore County, Maryland, but also lived in Macon and Warner Robins, Georgia. She currently resides in a beautiful community just outside Philadelphia. When her head is not completely absorbed with listening to her very demanding Guardians tell their stories, she can be found with her head in a book—not only enjoying the story but studying what makes the novel work for her or not. She loves action-adventure movies (if it blows up spectacularly, she’s there) and watching way too much TV. (Can everybody say “Procrastination?” To which she usually replies, “But it’s research!” Yeah, they don’t believe her either.). Her husband and three-year-old Shi Tzu, Montgomery, sometimes stand outside her closed office door and wonder, “Is she still alive? Do we dare bother her? What if she’s on a roll?” Monty usually answers by scratching on the wood anyway. Gotta love a dog who doesn’t care about boundaries! Good thing he’s so cute! – See more at: http://padepaul.com/author-bio/#sthash.zIWzlKYi.dpuf

Website: http://padepaul.com/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/padepaul
Twitter: https://twitter.com/PADePaul
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7223090.P_A_DePaul
Books: http://padepaul.com/sweetbriar/sweetbriar-books/

Meet the Delta Squad:
http://padepaul.com/sweetbriar/meet-delta-squad/

Posted in 4 Stars, Author Spotlight, Donna's Reviews, romantic suspense
Tagged P. A. DePaul, Spotlight & Review: Exchange of Fire (An SBG Novel) by P. A. DePaul
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August 19, 2014

Release Day Launch, Review & Giveaway: Hard to Hold On To: A Hard Ink Novella by Laura Kaye

Hard to Hold On To: A Hard Ink Novella by Laura Kaye
Publication Date: August 19, 2014
Reviewed by: Reading In Pajamas/ Cori
Rated: 4.5 Stars

Edward “Easy” Cantrell knows better than most the pain of not being able to save those he loves—which is why he is not going to let Jenna Dean out of his sight. He may have just met her, but Jenna’s the first person to make him feel alive since that devastating day in the desert more than a year ago.

Jenna has never met anyone like Easy. She can’t describe how he makes her feel–and not just because he saved her life. No, the stirrings inside her reach far beyond gratitude.

As the pair are thrust together while chaos reigns around them, they both know one thing: the things in life most worth having are the hardest to hold on to.

Hard To Hold On To picks up where Hard As You Can left off. I really enjoyed Easy and Jenna’s story. It’s was emotional and steamy. Both Jenna and Easy have trauma they’re trying to deal with. Being together seems to be exactly what they both need to heal. It’s a novella so it’s a quick read, but it still felt complete. I recommend reading this series in order to understand the full story. I highly recommend the entire series and can’t wait for the next book to release. I love it! It has plenty of action, suspense, emotion and streamy romance.

*Review copy provided by Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.

$1.99 Kindle http://geni.us/1hlz | B&N http://bit.ly/P621cf | Kobo http://bit.ly/1rJTKZb | iBooks http://bit.ly/1tbBqLg

✿The Hard Ink Series by Laura Kaye✿
✦Book 1: Hard As It Gets ➢ Kindle http://amzn.to/13UC9GX | Amazon Paperback http://amzn.to/1eebKEO | B&N http://bit.ly/1epPOY9 | Kobo http://bit.ly/17Ftsjz | iTunes http://goo.gl/ND4kSg
Review Rated 4 Stars: http://wp.me/p3d0RZ-QY
✦Book 2: Hard As You Can ➢ Kindle $4.74 http://georiot.co/2eeV | Amazon Paperback $5.17 http://georiot.co/43ks | B&N (Paperback $5.99/ Kindle $4.74) http://bit.ly/1jqTrzw | Kobo $4.99 http://bit.ly/1pdXJ0S
Review Rated 4.5 Stars: http://wp.me/p3d0RZ-138
✦Novella: Hard To Hold On To (August 19, 2014) ➢ $1.99 Kindle http://georiot.co/12MC | B&N http://bit.ly/P621cf | iTunes http://bit.ly/1tbBqLg
Cover Reveal: http://wp.me/p3d0RZ-1b1
✦Book 3: Hard To Come By (November 25, 2014) ➢ Kindle $4.99 http://georiot.co/2Xga | Amazon Paperback $5.38 http://georiot.co/3rHG | B&N (Paperback $5.99/ Nook $4.99) http://bit.ly/SfqFcW

Did you know Laura is donating the proceeds of all the sales from the first two weeks to a national non-profit that assists wounded veterans?

Easy tugged down the covers and gestured for Jenna to get in. She chose the side that would allow her to lie on the uninjured side of her face.

“After what you’ve been through, I don’t want to do anything that makes you feel uncomfortable,” Easy said.

Propping herself on an elbow, Jenna shook her head. “You won’t. You’re the—” She blanched as if she hadn’t meant to say whatever she’d nearly said.

Which made Easy need to know. He crawled on the bed as if lured by the words. “Finish. That. Sentence.”

She eased back onto the pillow, red hair sprawling around her shoulders like silk, and stared up at him. And it took everything Easy had not to settle himself on top of her and tease the words out with his hands and tongue.

“The only one who makes me feel safe,” she whispered.

Satisfaction humming through him, Easy turned and stretched out on his back. Because if he kept looking at her while she was looking at him like that, he might not be able to restrain himself from having what he wanted. A taste. A chance.

None of which she was in any shape for. And given the shitstorm in his head, probably neither was he.

“Good. That’s good,” he murmured, blowing out a long breath. Damn, he was tired. Not just because he hadn’t slept much the night before. But because of the size of the load he’d been shouldering for the past twelve-plus months. If he could only figure out how to put it down. He scrubbed his hands over his face, wishing he could shake himself out of this fucking slump.

If Rimes were here, he’d kick Easy’s ass for being such a morose motherfucker.

But he wasn’t here. Which was the damn problem in a nutshell.

He dropped his arms to the bed and peered over at Jenna.

She lay on her side facing him, hand tucked under her chin, not looking the least bit settled or relaxed.

“Whatchu need?”

“You.” She spoke the word without any hesitation, any doubt, any seeming self-consciousness.

“Have me, Jenna. Whatever you want,” he said, his cock stirring no matter how hard he reined himself in.

Holding his gaze, she moved closer until her head rested on his shoulder and her body trapped his arm between them. And, suddenly, she wasn’t fucking close enough.

“Here,” he whispered, lifting his arm and inviting her closer. And damn if his heart didn’t soar when she fitted herself the rest of the way against him, her face against his throat, her breasts against his ribs, her leg curling up onto his thigh.

He wasn’t sure whose sigh was louder. All Easy knew was that this was the first time in more than a year he didn’t feel alone. Wrapping his arm around her, he couldn’t resist squeezing her in just a little closer.

“Thank you,” she whispered, her breath ticklish against his neck.

He laced his fingers between hers where they rested on his chest. “I gotchu. You just close your eyes and know I’m here.”

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Laura is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of over a dozen books in contemporary and paranormal romance. Growing up, Laura’s large extended family believed in the supernatural, and family lore involving angels, ghosts, and evil-eye curses cemented in Laura a life-long fascination with storytelling and all things paranormal. She lives in Maryland with her husband, two daughters, and cute-but-bad dog, and appreciates her view of the Chesapeake Bay every day.

Website http://www.laurakayeauthor.com/
Blog http://laurakayeauthor.blogspot.com/
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/LauraKayeWrites
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August 19, 2014

SPOTLIGHT, Review & Giveaway: Risky Business (A Bomb Squad Novel) by Melissa Cutler

Risky Business (A Bomb Squad Novel) by Melissa Cutler
Publication Date: August 19, 2014
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Cori
Rated: 4.5 Stars

Welcome to Destiny Falls, New York, home of Bomb Squad–an ice hockey team full of rugged military heroes. But the season’s biggest match-up isn’t on the ice as one of their own prepares to go head to head with his new boss…

Allison Whitely’s ex left her with a mountain of debt and Cloud Nine, a struggling boat rental business. With zero job skills, her only hope of getting back in the black lies in a brooding ex-soldier who has her seeing red…

Theo Lacroix’s teammates are counting on their star player to help them win an upcoming high profile hockey game. But when a sexy tornado of a woman sweeps into Destiny Falls and expects him to help her with Cloud Nine, Theo is tempted to skate away from it all.

Theo vowed never again to be someone’s knight in shining armor, but his feelings–and desire–for Allison are becoming harder to ignore. He longs to save her, but to win Allison’s love, he’ll have to throw out his old playbook and take the ultimate risk…playing from the heart.

Risky Business is the first book in Melissa Cutler’s new series, The Bomb Squad. I love Melissa Cutler’s books and was really looking forward to her new series. After reading the first book I’m hooked. Hot military guys that play hockey together. Ummm…yep that sounds good to me. I loved it and can’t wait for more books in the series. Risky Business is full of action, suspense, and steamy romance. It captured and held my attention from start to finish. I highly recommend this book for romantic suspense lovers.

*Review copy provided by Berkley/NAL in exchange for an honest at review.

Kindle $4.27 http://geni.us/NHC | B&N $4.99 http://bit.ly/1ApfWNF | Kobo $4.99 http://bit.ly/1uJJa9D

What Do You Call A Soldier Wearing Ice Skates?

What do you call a soldier wearing ice skates? A Bomb Squad team member, that’s what! Bomb Squad is the name of the men’s league ice hockey team that Theo, the hero of my latest contemporary romance, Risky Business, plays on. The team is only open to veterans who have been wounded in combat, and, because of that, the team members have formed a strong brotherhood that I’ll be exploring throughout the series.

Why Ice Hockey?

For a few reasons, the first being that ice hockey is my favorite sport and I’ve always wanted to write a romance featuring an ice hockey player. Then, the initial idea to write a series about a group of combat wounded veterans and their post-military lives came to me about the same time as the last winter Olympics, which were followed by the Paralympics. I wanted the ice hockey sled teams with awe. Those athletes are amazing! Which got me thinking…was there a standing paraplegic hockey team? And, of course, I soon discovered that there are tons of them the world over.

But even if you’re not a hockey fan, this book is for you because it’s a sweet and sexy contemporary romance, first and foremost. You’re going to love Allison, the woman who wins Theo’s heart. I have to say, their road to happiness is a bit bumpy, though. As you can tell from this scene…

A Sneak Preview of RISKY BUSINESS:

As of a few hours ago, Allison had a new mantra. Don’t think about it.
She could live with the aggravation and desperation that Theoren evoked in her, as long as it kept her from the other thought threatening to take precedence in her mind—that thought being about how he’d looked wearing nothing but a pair of sopping wet boxer shorts, as he had been a few short hours earlier on the deck of his houseboat.
Nope. Because she was his boss and that would be totally inappropriate.
He paced to the sink and paused to stare out the window. Allison’s eyes settled on his backside, now clad in worn jeans.
Don’t think about it.
She wrenched her gaze to the table and the cup of chamomile tea she’d poured an hour earlier. It was cold now, but she couldn’t bring herself to bully past him to the microwave to warm it up.
“Theoren… will you just sit down so we can talked about this civilly?”
“It’s Theo. And what was it that you wanted to civilly talk about?”
For the moment, annoyance won the battle over her desperation—and lust. “Don’t play stupid. You know we have a lot to talk about or else you wouldn’t still be here throwing a tantrum like a…like a…hungry bear.”
He prowled to the table, narrow eyed, and braced his hands on it, leaning toward her. “Have you ever seen a hungry bear? Because they don’t throw tantrums. They devour.”
She mimicked his pose, leaning in, getting in his face. “Are you going to devour me?” The second the words crossed her lips, her cheeks heated.
Stop thinking about that, Allison. For real, this time.

(I love that scene so much! That Theo is such a grouch sometimes… *swoon*)

And don’t forget to add Risky Business to your GOODREADS shelf: http://bit.ly/1cRHpbY

Giveaway: I’ve got a special treat for one lucky commenter. My reader friend Jackie has created handmade wallets with all three Bomb Squad book covers on them. I took the liberty of adding a $10 Starbucks gift card into the one I’m giving away on Reading in Pajamas blog today. For a chance to win the wallet and gift card, please comment on this post and let me know what your favorite sports and/or sports romance book is. Good luck! – Melissa Cutler

Bomb Squad Series by Melissa Cutler
Risky Business (A Bomb Squad Novel, Book 1) – August 2014
Undefeated (A Bomb Squad Novel, Book 2) – November 2014
Game Changer (A Bomb Squad Novel, Book 3) – April 2015

Melissa Cutler knows she has the best job in the world writing sexy contemporary romances and romantic suspense. She was struck at an early age by an unrelenting travel bug and is probably planning her next vacation as you read this. When she’s not globetrotting, she’s enjoying Southern California’s flip-flop wearing weather and wrangling two rambunctious kids. She loves hearing from readers at melissa@melissacutler.net, or on Facebook (www.facebook.com/MelissaCutlerBooks ) and Twitter (@m_cutler). Visit http://www.melissacutler.net to learn more about Melissa and her books and don’t forget to sign up for her newsletter: http://bit.ly/16mkpCs

Posted in 4.5 Stars, Author Guest Post, Author Spotlight, Cori's Reviews, Giveaways, romance reviews, romantic suspense
Tagged Berkley/NAL, Melissa Cutler, Review & Giveaway: Risky Business (A Bomb Squad Novel) by Melissa Cutler, Spotlight
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August 3, 2014

Review: Bound to Danger (Deadly Ops Series #2) by Katie Reus

Bound to Danger (Deadly Ops Series #2) by Katie Reus
Publication Date: August 5, 2014
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Donna
Rated: 4.5 Stars

At a benefit dinner, community activist Maria Cervantes overhears two men plotting a terrorist attack that could rock Miami to its core. But before she can alert authorities, she’s almost killed in a massive explosion—and wakes up in a hospital with no memory of what happened. As the sole survivor of the attack, she is now a person of interest to the NSA—and especially to Agent Cade O’Reilly. Because Maria is the one woman Cade has never been able to forget.

Years ago, they were closer than either was willing to admit—until Cade disappeared when Maria needed him most. Now he’s sticking by her, whether she likes it or not. Because the memories locked inside her mind could hold vital clues to the next attack. Because terrorists want her dead—and because he never wants to let her go again.

I loved the pulse pumping action and danger that was thrown at them throughout the book. I did get confused at times as to why she was still a target, but then I got immersed in the story and it no longer mattered. The romance was hot and sexy and flowed nicely with the story. I would have scored it a 5 but I wasn’t thrilled with the word descriptions at the beginning of the chapters and the insertion of old e-mails seemed disjointed with the story. I look forward to the next Deadly Ops book.

*Review copy provided by Berkley/NAL in exchange for an honest review.

Kindle $5.99 http://geni.us/Ej7 | Amazon PBK $5.98 http://geni.us/2FFZ | B&N (PBK $6.15/ Nook $7.99) http://bit.ly/1kfxQOQ | Kobo $7.99 http://bit.ly/1o3uO19

Facebook party August 6, 2014: https://www.facebook.com/events/1471888426382682/
Bound To Danger Release Party!
Wednesday, August 6 at 9:00am in EDT

✦Deadly Ops Series by Katie Reus✦
✦Book 1: Targeted ➢ Kindle http://geni.us/3oDF | Amazon PBK http://geni.us/1UqV | B&N http://bit.ly/1s2bsek | Kobo http://bit.ly/UKDTiC
✦Book 2: Bound to Danger ➢ Kindle http://geni.us/Ej7 | Amazon PBK http://geni.us/2FFZ | B&N http://bit.ly/1kfxQOQ | Kobo http://bit.ly/1o3uO19

Katie Reus is the New York Times, USA Today, and IndieReader bestselling author of the Red Stone Security series, the Moon Shifter series and the Deadly Ops series. She fell in love with romance at a young age thanks to books she pilfered from her mom’s stash. Years later she loves reading romance almost as much as she loves writing it.

However, she didn’t always know she wanted to be a writer. After changing majors many times, she finally graduated summa cum laude with a degree in psychology. Not long after that she discovered a new love. Writing. She now spends her days writing dark paranormal romance and sexy romantic suspense.

FACEBOOK: http://www.facebook.com/katiereusauthor
TWITTER: http://twitter.com/katiereus
GOODREADS: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1563059.Katie_Reus
WEBSITE: http://katiereus.com/
BOOKSHELF: http://katiereus.com/bookshelf/

Posted in 4.5 Stars, Donna's Reviews, romance reviews, romantic suspense
Tagged Berkley/NAL, Deadly ops series by Katie Reus, Katie Reus, Review: Bound to Danger (Deadly Ops Series #2) by Katie Reus, Signet
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July 29, 2014

Review: Personal Target: An Elite Ops Novel by Kay Thomas

Personal Target: An Elite Ops Novel by Kay Thomas
Publication Date: July 29, 2014
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Donna
Rated: 3.5 Stars

AEGIS: an elite team of ex-military men working under the radar of most governments. If you have a problem no one else can handle, they can help.

A former SEAL and Black Ops specialist who left the CIA, Nick Donovan gave up a life on the edge to work in the private sector. But that didn’t stop his enemies from coming after him—or his family. In a case of mistaken identity, a drug cartel kidnaps his sister-in-law’s best friend … a woman from Nick’s past.

One minute Jennifer Grayson is housesitting and the next she’s abducted to a foreign brothel. Jennifer is planning her escape when her first “customer” arrives. Nick, the man who broke her heart years ago, has come to her rescue. Now, as they race for their lives, passion for each other reignites and old secrets resurface. Can Nick keep the woman he loves safe against an enemy with a personal vendetta?

The globe-trotting action was non-stop in this romantic suspense novel. I liked the storyline with all its twists and turns. It kept you wondering and engaged. I just wish Jenny and Nick’s relationship and feelings pulled me in more. It seemed like they had sex due to opportunity and not heartfelt desire. That beings said, I did enjoy the ride.

*Review copy provided by Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.

$1.99 Kindle http://geni.us/3mpY | B&N http://bit.ly/1khOJbT | Kobo http://bit.ly/1lKlvx1

Posted in 3.5 Stars, Donna's Reviews, romance reviews, romantic suspense
Tagged Avon Impulse, Kay Thomas, Personal Target: An Elite Ops Novel by Kay Thomas
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July 9, 2014

REVIEW: Forged in Ash (A Red-Hot SEALs Novel, Book 2) by Trish McCallan

Forged in Ash (A Red-Hot SEALs Novel, Book 2) by Trish McCallan
Publication Date: January 28, 2014
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Donna
Rated: 4.5 Stars

Kait Winchester inherited a special gift from her Arapaho ancestors: she can heal with her touch. And there is no one she would like to get her hands on more than the super-sexy SEAL who seems determined to ignore their off-the-charts chemistry. When the wounded warrior finally seeks her help, she’s ready to nurse him back to health…and into her bed.

Navy SEAL Lieutenant Marcus “Cosky” Simcosky is no stranger to hot water, but recent events have boiled over into one hell of a mess. His team is under investigation for a hostage rescue gone wrong, a crazy female stalker is on his trail, and the last few bullets he took just may sideline him for the rest of his career. The kicker? The one woman who can help him get back on his feet—and has haunted his fantasies for years—is his teammate’s sister. He’s looked but never touched. When his stalker targets Kait, though, Cosky will have no choice but to do whatever is necessary to keep her safe.

I read Ms. McCallan’s first novel, Forged in Fire, February 2013 and loved it. I just now found that Forged in Ash had been out since January and I couldn’t wait to read it. This book was worth the wait. I love the gritty pulse pumping action and the unusual paranormal aspects thrown in. The latter gives an interesting flair to this special ops novel. The romance was pretty steamy but I wish it has flowed a little better instead of going from hot to tepid and then suddenly hot again. I also hate cliffhangers and lament that I have to wait until October to read the next installment. This time I’m marking my calendar!

Kindle $4.99 http://georiot.co/GGx | Amazon PBK $9.99 http://georiot.co/2EbH | B&N PBK $10.17 http://bit.ly/VLNSVI
Note: Amazon Prime Members – Borrow this book for free on a Kindle device with from the Kindle Owners’ Lending Library.
Join Amazon Prime – Start Free Trial Now

✦Red-Hot SEALs Series by Trish McCallan✦
✦Book 1: Forged in Fire (Sep 4, 2012) ➢ Kindle $1.99 http://geni.us/xxx
✦Book 2: Forged in Ash (Jan 28, 2014) ➢ Kindle $4.99 http://georiot.co/GGx
Note: Amazon Prime Members – Borrow this book for free on a Kindle device with from the Kindle Owners’ Lending Library.
Join Amazon Prime – Start Free Trial Now

Trish McCallan was born in Eugene, Oregon, and grew up in Washington State, where she began crafting stories at an early age. Her first books were illustrated in crayon, bound with red yarn, and sold for a nickel at her lemonade stand. Trish grew up to earn a bachelor’s degree in English literature with a concentration in creative writing from Western Washington University, taking jobs as a bookkeeper and human- resource specialist before finally quitting her day job to write full time.

Forged in Fire, the first book in her Red Hot SEALs series, came about after a marathon reading session, and a bottle of Nyquil that sparked a vivid dream. She lives today in eastern Washington. An avid animal lover, she currently shares her home with four golden retrievers, a black lab mix and two cats.

Website: http://trishmccallan.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/trish.mccallan
Twitter: https://twitter.com/@TrishMcCallan

Posted in 4.5 Stars, Donna's Reviews, romance reviews, romantic suspense
Tagged Book 2) by Trish McCallan, Forged in Ash (A Red-Hot SEALs Novel, Red-Hot SEALs Series by Trish McCallan, Trish McCallan
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July 3, 2014

SPOTLIGHT & REVIEW: Hot on the Hunt (ICE: Black Ops Defenders Series, #3) by Melissa Cutler

Hot on the Hunt (ICE: Black Ops Defenders Series, #3) by Melissa Cutler
Publication Date: July 1, 2014
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Cori
Rated: 4.5 Stars

This ex-ICE agent has one last chance with the one who got away — if he can protect her long enough…

Black-ops agent Alicia Troy spent years plotting the perfect revenge on the man who left her for dead…until her plan is foiled by her ex-teammate–and ex-lover–who taught her the meaning of betrayal. She can’t trust John Witter…so why can’t she stop wanting him?

For John, it’s a race to get to Alicia’s intended victim before she does because he’s the only one who can prove John’s innocence, but the race turns into a battle of wits against the woman who believes he deceived her. But when their former agency turns on them both, labeling them “armed and dangerous,” John has a new mission: keep his woman alive.

Hot on the Hunt is Book 3 in Melissa Cutler’s ICE: Black Ops Defenders series.

***
(romantic suspense, action-adventure romance, kickass heroine, former military hero, international setting, fast paced, second chance love, reunion romance, hurricane)

I love this series! It keeps getting better and better! Great romantic suspense with lots of action, drama, emotion and steamy romance. It kept me on edge and flipping the pages to see what would happen next. I love a good suspense that includes a great love story! I loved the characters and the plot. Melissa Cutler writes a story that really makes the reader feel like they are living the experience with the characters and rooting for them. I highly recommend this series and this book for romantic suspense lovers. Melissa Cutler has become a go to author for me when I’m in the mood for a suspense filled romance.

*Review copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Kindle $3.82 http://georiot.co/1zcq | Amazon Paperback $4.85 http://georiot.co/mSH | B&N http://bit.ly/1mA2fDB | Kobo http://bit.ly/1mRQUjT

✦ICE: Black Ops Defenders Series by Melissa Cutler✦
✦#1: Tempted Into Danger (June 2013) ➢ Kindle $3.82: http://georiot.co/17Eu | Amazon Paperback $4.95 http://georiot.co/3WNa | B&N http://bit.ly/16edknt | Kobo http://bit.ly/YGpvDg | iTunes http://bit.ly/10zY4k9
✦#2: Secret Agent Secretary (January 2014) ➢ Kindle $3.82 http://georiot.co/2Bw7 | Amazon Paperback $4.95 http://georiot.co/3hwH | B&N (Paperback $5.50/ Nook $4.99) http://bit.ly/19QnMko | Kobo $4.39 http://bit.ly/1kdLnTV
✦#3: Hot on the Hunt (July 1, 2014) ➢ Kindle $3.82: http://georiot.co/1zcq | Amazon Paperback $4.85: http://georiot.co/mSH | B&N http://bit.ly/1mA2fDB | Kobo http://bit.ly/1mRQUjT

Melissa Cutler knows she has the best job in the world, dividing her time between her dual passions for writing sexy small town contemporary romances, western romances, and edge-of-your-seat romantic suspense for a variety of publishers, including Harlequin, Kensington Books, Penguin, and Macmillan. She was struck at an early age by an unrelenting travel bug and is probably planning her next vacation as you read this. When she’s not globetrotting, she’s enjoying Southern California’s flip-flop wearing weather and wrangling two rambunctious kids.

Website: http://www.melissacutler.net
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/MelissaCutlerBooks
Twitter: @m_cutler
Bookshelf: http://www.melissacutler.net/bookshelf/
Pinterest: http://bit.ly/10zEWNY
Goodreads: http://bit.ly/13Sn6gC

July 3, 2014

BLOG TOUR, Review & Giveaway: BETRAYED by Rebecca York

BETRAYED by Rebecca York
Release Date: July 1, 2014
Reviewed by: Reading in Pajamas/ Donna
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Rated: 3 Stars

There is a spy in S&D systems who is leaking top-secret information that could lead to extreme disaster. It’s up to Shane Gallagher to uncover the mole and set things right.

Systems analyst Elena Reyes had no intention of stealing company secrets until her brother’s life was threatened by the cruelest of mobsters. When Elena finally confesses her deeds to Shane, he’s ready to do everything he can to keep her out of danger. But will Shane’s help be enough to protect them, or will his good intentions leave them all for dead?

This was a fast paced story involving the Mob and corporate espionage. I couldn’t truly relate to Elena. I understand how she acted was part of the story but I struggled with it nonetheless. I also wished there was more camaraderie between the men at Rockfort Security but they worked well together and had each other’s backs when it counted. All in all a fun story with just enough heat to counteract the danger.

*Review copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Elena had never thought about seducIng a man. She wasn’t even sure of her moves. But she knew that Shane wanted her, even if he wasn’t prepared to admit it. She also knew he felt protective of her, which was probably part of the conflict he must be feeling.

Before he could come up with another objection, she cupped the back of his head with her hands and brought his face down as she raised her own head toward him.

She hadn’t been sure what would happen. Or perhaps she’d been afraid that he’d wrench himself away from her. But the danger must have affected his emotions as well as her own. When their lips met, it was as though someone had tossed a match into a pile of gasoline- soaked kindling. Invisible flames rose as heat flared between them.

She heard him growl her name and felt him gather her closer as he kissed her with purpose, running his hands up and down her back.

The heat coming off him made her dizzy. She should be afraid, but she kept kissing him, letting him feel all the passion that she’d held inside herself for so long.

Opening her lips, she invited him to explore her mouth, then did the same with him, absorbing his taste and the way the mouth-to-mouth contact sent shock waves to every part of her body.

“You know that you’re playing with fire?” he asked.

“I know what I want.”

“Then take off your clothes.”

Again, a dose of reality. Was she ready to get undressed in front of him? Or was she going to back away—the way he hoped she would.

She wouldn’t give him the satisfaction of scaring her off. Not because she was trying to score any points, but because what she wanted hadn’t changed, even if he was trying to make her take a step back.

She did step back, but only a few feet. She kept her gaze on him as she reached for the hem of the T-shirt and pulled it over her head, then let it drop on the floor so that she stood before him naked to the waist…

Kindle $6.15 http://georiot.co/2ZNp
Amazon PBK $6.82 http://georiot.co/2uDE
B&N (PBK $6.79/ Nook $7.49) http://bit.ly/1maQk31
iTunes – http://bit.ly/1nGZOjH

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Rebecca York’s writing has been compared to that of Dick Francis, Sherrilyn Kenyon, and Maggie Shayne. Her award-winning books have been translated into twenty-two languages and optioned for film. A recipient of the RWA Centennial Award, she lives in Maryland near Washington, DC, which is often the setting of her romantic suspense novels.

Social Networking Links:
Website: http://rebeccayork.com
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8110.Rebecca_York
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Rebecca-York/122426234846
Twitter: https://twitter.com/RebeccaYork43

Posted in 3 Stars, Donna's Reviews, Giveaways, romance reviews, romantic suspense
Tagged Blog Tour, Rebecca York, Review & Giveaway: BETRAYED by Rebecca York, Sourcebooks
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June 25, 2014

SPOTLIGHT, Review & Giveaway: When Day Breaks (A KGI Novel, Book 9) by Maya Banks

When Day Breaks (A KGI Novel, Book 9) by Maya Banks
Release Date: June 24, 2014
Reviewed By: Reading in Pajamas/Donna
Rated: 4.5 Stars

THE ALL-NEW KGI NOVEL BY NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELING AUTHOR AUTHOR MAYA BANKS

The Kelly Group International (KGI): A super-elite, top secret, family-run business. Qualifications: High intelligence, rock-hard body, military background. Mission: Hostage/kidnap victim recovery. Intelligence gathering. Handling jobs the U.S. government can’t…

Eden is said to be one of the most beautiful women in the world. Her face has graced countless magazines and her body has sold millions of dollars of clothing. But her fame and beauty has earned her more than she ever imagined. Evil is stalking her, determined to extinguish the ethereal beauty forever.

Swanson or “Swanny” as his teammates call him is always up for the next mission. He came back from Afghanistan wounded and scarred. Hardly the kind of man who even belongs in the same room with Eden. And yet there’s something about the quiet beauty that stirs his blood and makes him dream of the impossible. Because Beauty loving the Beast only happens in fairy tales and KGI doesn’t deal in fairy tales. Ever.

Another great KGI novel. The KGI members still thrill me with how they not only work as a well-oiled machine but also show their closeness with their easy banter and camaraderie. I’ve grown to care about them too, which is why I was anxious for Swanny’s story. Even though the drama and action didn’t start soon enough for me, the tender romance made up for it. It even moved me to tears a few times. A nice addition to the series and has me itching for the next one.

*Review copy provided by Berkley/NAL in exchange for an honest review.

Kindle http://amzn.to/1NE1x5D | Amazon PBK http://amzn.to/1esgKeq | B&N http://bit.ly/1prBuTC | Kobo http://bit.ly/1jHCeQK

✿FACEBOOK PAPERBACK GIVEAWAY: Winner receives paperback copies of When Day Breaks (A KGI Novel) by Maya Banks. Winner will be announced Friday, June 27th by 5PM Central on Facebook.
Enter on this FB Post: https://www.facebook.com/ReadingInPajamas/photos/a.523273397722860.132625.523268664390000/775799855803545/?type=1&theater

When Day Breaks

Maya Banks is the #1 New York Times and #1 USA Today and bestselling author of the Surrender Trilogy. Her other chart toppers have included erotic romance, romantic suspense, contemporary romance, and Scottish historical romance. She lives in the South with her husband, three children and a variety of pets. Visit her online at http://www.mayabanks.com, http://www.facebook.com/AuthorMayaBanks, and twitter.com/maya_banks.

Posted in 4.5 Stars, Author Spotlight, Donna's Reviews, romance reviews, romantic suspense
Tagged Berkley/NAL, Book 9) by Maya Banks, Maya Banks, When Day Breaks (A KGI Novel
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Reading in Pajamas

Romance Book Blog

Category Archives: romantic suspense

REVIEW: Irresistible Force (A K-9 Rescue Novel) by D. D. Ayres

Spotlight & Review: Exchange of Fire (An SBG Novel) by P. A. DePaul

Release Day Launch, Review & Giveaway: Hard to Hold On To: A Hard Ink Novella by Laura Kaye

SPOTLIGHT, Review & Giveaway: Risky Business (A Bomb Squad Novel) by Melissa Cutler

Review: Bound to Danger (Deadly Ops Series #2) by Katie Reus

Review: Personal Target: An Elite Ops Novel by Kay Thomas

REVIEW: Forged in Ash (A Red-Hot SEALs Novel, Book 2) by Trish McCallan

SPOTLIGHT & REVIEW: Hot on the Hunt (ICE: Black Ops Defenders Series, #3) by Melissa Cutler

BLOG TOUR, Review & Giveaway: BETRAYED by Rebecca York

SPOTLIGHT, Review & Giveaway: When Day Breaks (A KGI Novel, Book 9) by Maya Banks