Hearts in Darkness: Nikki and Michael Book 2 (Nikki & Michael #2)

Private Investigator Nikki James has a lot to contend with. Her lover, Michael Kelly, walked out without so much as a goodbye, and what seemed like a simple case of stopping a runaway teen brought her face-to-face with another clutch of deadly vampires. But if that seemed bad, it is about to get a lot worse, because when Michael returns, it is not for her, but for the case.

Wealthy men are starting to vanish from a resort in Jackson Hole—which is exactly where Nikki’s runaway teen seems to be as well. Something nefarious is going on at the luxury spa, but what? The last thing Michael needs is a confrontation with Nikki—especially when his control over his bloodlust is still so tenuous. But posing as a newlywed couple at the swanky resort may be the best way for both of them to solve their respective cases. This time, Nikki is determined to make Michael see that life apart is worse than death. Yet before she can make him see the light, a specter from Michael’s past rises that could destroy any hope she has of a future with him. Because this time the threat isn’t physical. It’s a matter of the heart.

4.5/5 Stars

I'm really happy that the author decided to reissue these books because even though they were on my TBR pile they were way at the bottom of that pile. When I saw them offered at Netgalley I though it was a perfect time to read them and I'm very happy with that decision. Nikki and Michael are a great couple and their relationship is full of that delightful tension that compels you to want to read more and hope that they get together in the end. The secondary characters are well rounded and are actually believable as real people especially Jake. I can't wait to read the next book and hope there will be more in the future.

Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC.

Against the Mark (Raines of Wind Canyon #9)

The perfect murder is a work of art

In one catastrophic instant, Haley Warren's estranged father was taken from her. She never got the chance to reconnect with him, so now she's doing it the only way she's got left: by proving the explosion that killed him was no accident.

When Tyler Brodie, the provocative and handsome P.I. hired by Haley, discovers that her father was investigating a suspected art theft, he knows his death is no coincidence. After all, tens of millions of dollars worth of stolen art could motivate a thief to go to any lengths--including getting rid of anyone poking around where they don't belong.

As Haley and Ty get closer to the truth, the truth gets ugly: Did Haley's dad know too much...or was he in on the take? And although Ty's a consummate professional, he's having trouble focusing on the facts of the case, and not the figure of his gorgeous client. The two are determined to get to the bottom of the case, even if it means they die trying.

www.KatMartin.com    

ebook, 400 pages

Expected publication: September 1st 2013 by Mira Books

 

 

 

5/5 Stars

 

Even though I just picked this series up with the last book I'm totally loving it. Its full of romance and adventure and of course very desirable men that make your blood run hot. In this book we have Ty, who I only met through the last book (and much too briefly) but I gather he has been in a couple previous books and his client/romantic interest Haley. With his laid-back country boy and ex-military background, Ty was pretty popular with the ladies (and me) even though he hadn't met that one lady he could see himself with until he sees Haley smiling at him. He agrees to help her look into the supposed accidental death of her father as a favor to her great aunt and his good friend, Ellie. That is when the fun began. Throughout their investigation they learn that her father was indeed murdered but more importantly Haley learns that taking a chance on someone isn't the scariest thing out there but living a life without Ty might be.

I really liked this book and its non-stop action; just when they thought they were safe something or someone else came along to shake things up. I really want to go back and read this series from the beginning because these characters are fascinating. Even though this is a series with reoccuring characters Ms. Martin does a great job of recapping the stories when it's needed. Can't wait to read more of these books.

Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC.

A Rake's Midnight Kiss (Sons of Sin #2)

It Takes A Lady

Brilliant scholar Genevieve Barrett knows how to keep a secret. Her identity as the author of her father's academic articles has always been her greatest deception—until a charming housebreaker tries to steal the mysterious Harmsworth Jewel from her. She doesn't reveal that she recognizes her father's devastatingly handsome new student as the thief himself. For Genevieve, this will be the most seductive secret of all...

To Catch A Thief

Sir Richard Harmsworth has been living a lie, maintaining a rakish façade to show society that he doesn't care about his status as a bastard. Yet long haunted by his unknown father's identity, Richard believes the Harmsworth Jewel will confirm his claim as the rightful heir. But when Richard sets out to seduce the bookworm who possesses the stone, he instead falls for its beautiful owner. But even as she steals Richard's heart, Genevieve will be in greater danger than her coveted treasure...    

ebook, 384 pages

Expected publication: August 27th 2013 by Forever

 

4/5 Stars

 

I really love this series and find the concept of the Sons of Sins or a "bunch of bastards" (as they've been called) intriguing. We always read about the member of the Ton that's born out of wedlock, but we never get to read about how the status of being born a bastard really makes them feel. Most times the character isn't bothered by it and life goes on its merry way. In this book Richard acts as if he's not affected but deep down he just wants to be seen as the rightful heir to the baronetcy and thinks finding the family jewel will do that. That's when he comes to meet Genevieve and suddenly the jewel is the last thing on his mind.

I felt as if parts of the book dragged a bit but for the most part this was a great book full of romance and plenty of conflict between two suitors. I loved getting to know Cam a little better and can't wait to meet the woman who upsets his tidy life. Looking forward to many more books by Ms. Campbell.

Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC.

Twilight Hunter (Execution Underground #1)

Hunters of the supernatural, the Execution Underground are an elite group tasked with protecting humanity...but what happens when danger collides with desire?

Jace McCannon has one loyalty: the Execution Underground. Despite his mixed blood, his hatred for the werewolves he hunts is legendary. But in his search for a sadistic killer, Jace finds himself face-to-face with a stunningly seductive packmaster...and longing for a night with his mortal enemy.

Nothing can stop Frankie Amato from defending her kind--or catching the rogue responsible for killing women in her territory. For that, this alpha female needs Jace's skills more than she wants to admit. But as their investigation exposes evil truths, need burns into a passion that dare not be fulfilled. For to do so will have deadly consequences for them both....
    

ebook, 384 pages

Expected publication: September 1st 2013 by Harlequin

 

4/5 Stars

 

            You gotta love a guy with daddy issues, smokes and drinks way too much and is a jerk for 85% of the book but still be sexy enough and vulnerable enough to save the day and get the girl and steal my heart.....oh Jace, you have done all that and more. I hereby claim him as my book boyfriend of the week! Jace completely turned out to be a great character that I wasn't sure I was gonna like when we first met him. As I mentioned above he was a complete jerk turning all his self hate onto everyone he comes in contact with excluding maybe his best friend, David. Once he met Frankie he fought himself even more and the attraction he felt for her. Their attraction was evident from the start and their sexual tension was off the charts. I think Frankie was a great match for him because she forced him to look within himself and to deal with his half blood status. If only they would've talked a little more they could've skipped so many misunderstandings.

I liked this world and am excited to read more about the group known as the Execution Underground. My only reason for not giving this book a 5 star rating is because of the group of guys. They have the big fight in Jace's apartment then we don't hear anything from them until the end when they come to the warehouse, but that's all we know....that they show up....nothing more. No interaction with Jace and/or Frankie at all. I guess it was left this way to help lead into the next book, but I would've liked some closure on Jace's issues with the group. Would still recommend this book though to anyone who likes paranormal romance.

Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC.

Daysider by Susan Krinard

Human/vampire relations are in turmoil in a stunning new series by New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author Susan Krinard

Tensions between human and vampire factions are escalating. Peace hangs in the balance. And like two ill-fated stars, Alexia Fox and Damon are destined to collide. She's a seductive human operative on a mission to infiltrate an illegal vampire colony. He's a vampire and represents everything she loathes-and all that she desires. Their attraction is scorching, immediate...and could explode like the fragile truce they've both been fighting independently to preserve. Now the world's last hope hinges on their ability to work together. As enemies they are doomed, but as allies they just might save the world.
    

ebook, 304 pages

Published August 1st 2013 by Harlequin Nocturne

 

 

3.5/5 stars

 

This book was kinda hard to get into at first because of the amount of information that is given to us. There are humans, vampires that live in the night, vampires that can walk in the day, two different types of half vampire half humans and some weird creature that I'm still not sure what they are exactly. All these creatures live between three areas and there is lots of political fighting. That's just stuff you learn in the first couple chapters. Then mix in double agents and science experiments and it kinda confused me in parts and I had to reread a few paragraphs to make sure I knew what was going on and I'm pretty sure I've got it.....maybe. I definitely liked the second half of the book al much better. The relationship between the two MCs was one that I was actually rooting for since the second they laid eyes on each other. They were both strong fierce people that needed each other in more ways then they realized. Their sense of honor and commitment to their own factions was something neither one could overlook, but they both wanted to so bad you could feel it raidate of the page. Looking forward to see if there will be more about this unique world.

Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC.

 

20 Year High School Reunion

                                                               Class of 1993

Well, this past Saturday I attended my high school reunion. 20 years....where has the time gone? It seems as if only yesterday I had stars in my eyes as I walked across that stage to be handed my diploma. It seems I had such great plans to knock the world off its ass, but real life caught up to me and it seemed no matter what I did I kept making the wrong choices. I quit college thinking I'd go back the next semester and never quite got back into the swing of academia. So, I entered the work force (working my butt off for very little money) and deciding that I would be better off living on my own. Big mistake. But of course through the years I've also made some wise choices, traveled the country and made some incredible friends none of which I wouldn't have been able to do without the support of people I meet in high school. And when I had my accident 11 years ago I realized I still a great number of friends from school who stuck by me through the worse of it.

My point to all this babbling is that it was nice to reconnect with old friends I hadn't seen since that last day of walking the halls of Floyd Central and it was great to see where everyone ended up in life so far. I can't wait to see where we'll be in another 5, 10 or even 20 years from now. Some of my best memories where with these people and I hope we can make many more.

The Night Is Alive (Krewe of Hunters #10) by Heather Graham

MIDNIGHT IN SAVANNAH

It's a city of beauty, history...hauntings. And one of the most haunted places in Savannah is a tavern called The Dragonslayer, built in the 1750s. The current owner, Gus Anderson, is a descendant of the original innkeeper and his pirate brother, Blue.

Gus summons his granddaughter, Abigail, home from Virginia, where she's studying at the FBI Academy. When she arrives, she's devastated to find him dead. Murdered. But Abby soon learns that Gus isn't the only one to meet a brutal and untimely end; there've been at least two other victims. Then Captain Blue Anderson starts making ghostly appearances, and the FBI's paranormal investigation unit, the Krewe of Hunters, sends in Agent Malachi Gordon.

Abby and Malachi have a similar ability to connect with the dead...and a similar stubbornness. Sparks immediately begin to fly—sparks of attraction and discord. But as the death toll rises, they have to trust each other or they, too, might find themselves among the dead haunting old Savannah!

 

 

4/5 stars

 

I have enjoyed this series each time I've read one of the books, granted I picked it up in the middle and am slowly trying to catch up my reading and while most of the core characters are in each book it's not necessary to be strict about the reading order, which I really like. So this one takes place in Savannah and involves pirates (who doesn't like pirates especially gentlemen pirates?) and underground tunnels with a dash of ghost thrown in. When Abby is first introduced to Malachi she was a bitch that I wasn't sure I'd like but I guess I'd feel the same in her circumstances. Just graduating from the academy then losing my grandfather while everyone thinks I'm seeing conspiracy theories all around me? Yeah, I get it. I'd be prickly too. Malachi took it like a champ though. The actual mystery was a pretty good one....I kept changing my mind on who I thought it was and didn't figure it out til the very end. These books are always a recommend for me. Looking forward to more of these books.

Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC.

 

 

Finally!

I finally bought a new laptop after having my last one for almost seven years. I'm so excited I'm about to bust! Of course now I get to figure out all the new tricks and shortcuts. I'll also finally be able to starting blogging again instead of just hit and missing it. So, I'm off to play around for awhile.

Sharpshooter (Shadow Agents #3) by Cynthia Eden

Heart-pounding action meets smoldering desire in USA TODAY bestselling author Cynthia Eden's Shadow Agents miniseries!

Two years ago Gunner Ortez saved Sydney Sloan's life on a mission gone wrong. And ever since then, he's been watching her back. Now a hostage-rescue mission is about to blow the Elite Ops agents' lives apart once again.

Working side by side back in the jungles of Peru, the heat between Sydney and Gunner is hotter than ever-and so are the threats to their lives. With the danger escalating, Sydney knows Gunner is her only hope at successfully completing their assignment. But the ex-SEAL who arouses passion she'd only dreamed about also poses the greatest risk to the secret she carries in her heart...and in her belly.



5/5 stars

 
I have no idea how I've overlooked this series because I am a huge Cynthia Eden fan. This is the first contemporary book of Herr's I've read and it didn't disappoint. Lots of action, plenty of suspense and a wonderful romance kept this book rolling. Gunner....such a strong man, the kind you definitely want at your back. The kind of man any woman would be proud to call her own. The kind of man you want in your bed cause you know he's all kinds of intense! Sydney, man that woman is strong. The things she had to deal with would've put me in my bed for months just trying to let it all pass. The two of them together? Phenomenal! Now I've just got to go back and read the first two books. Hopefully Ms. Eden will keep cranking these books out cause I'm hooked. I read this as a stand alone and had no problems knowing what was going on, but I'm sure they're much better read in order. Totally recommend.

Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC.

The Devil's Thief (The Saint’s Devils #1) by Samantha Kane

The daughter of a reformed jewel thief, Julianna Harte knows a thing or two about stealth. When the foundling home she provides for finds itself in dire financial straits, Julianna is forced to do the unthinkable. In a bit of misguided Robin Hood derring-do, she slips through the window of a wealthy rake to search for a treasure she knows is there: an invaluable pearl. But when the towering and very naked occupant of the moonlit bedroom ambushes her with a bargain—a night in his bed in exchange for the pearl—Julianna doesn’t know if it’s masculine heat or sheer desperation that makes his terms so tempting.

Alasdair Sharpe had no intention of keeping his end of the bargain. Planning to offer his little cat burglar carte blanche instead, he promptly loses himself in the delights of unexpected pleasure. But when he awakes the next morning to find his family heirloom gone, fury quickly replaces sensual languor. Of course, Alasdair is more than willing to use seduction to reclaim his stolen pearl—and find the key to Julianna’s heart.

4/5 stars

 I've had this book for awhile and kept skipping over it thinking it would be a typical historical romance novel, but gladly I was wrong. There were no dances and no interfering matrons instead we had a reformed thief, a bumbling jewel thief, a man on a mission, two very entertaining friends and one hoodlum with a huge heart. I really enjoyed this book and am looking forward to reading more about these guys. Ms. Kane's books are always a great read.