HAPPY Friday everyone!! A whole weekend of reading is in store for me and I couldn’t be happier!! Considering the SERIOUSLY awesome finds this week (below) I think most of us have some great reading ahead.
Okay so… what am I currently reading? I finally chose! Jezebel <— I know you guys have seen this one mentioned a lot lately, but I’m finally reading it myself, and… so far I’m 50% in, and absolutely in love with “Jezebel” (the book… although the lady is pretty awesome too). Oh wait!! HOLY MOLY it’s almost 500 pages?! Wow I truly must be loving it, ’cause I just started last night, and I’m already halfway through!!! Heartwarming, intriguing, profound… INTENSE! It feels like it could be BIG in regards to the depth of this story. I was expecting it to be so much darker (psych-thriller-like), ’cause of all of the “twist” freak-outs. I’m still guessing like crazy as to what it will be, but I love that no matter, I’ll be wrong. 😀
Sally: Don’t bother trying 😛
Tracie: This book was awesome! God the ending was crazy
Jenn: The ending…oh my!!! Didn’t see that coming!
Paula: Don’t forget the novella after. It’s a must. I loved this crazy, twisted book. Mind.f**k.
Next on my list after it? I’m pretty sure it’ll be this one: Pure Abandon <— Sounds right up my angsty romance alley and a few of my trustee fellow readers are LOVING it! (You’ll see below, I posted their comments). 😀
P.S. Let me know if I’m missing any or if you loved any (from this list or elsewhere).
EBOOK BARGAINS & READER RECOMMENDATIONS (NOTE: bargain priced when I added them, but prices can change on Amazon, so make sure to check before you finalize your order).
- With A Twist (Bad Habits Book 1) by Staci Hart <— ANGIE IS LOVING IT ALERT!! JUST RELEASED, bargain priced and my friend Angie LOVES it like CRAZY!! “First book I’ve read by her but it was amazing. …It’s called With a Twist by Staci Hart. Its about a Ballerina who falls for her best friend. It’s phenomenal. So sweet and cute and heart warming and refreshing. I’m in love with it. I’m so in love with this book… I think it’s a indie gem! So brilliant.“
King of Hearts by L.H. Cosway <— REVIEWS ARE PHENOMENAL ALERT!!! JUST RELEASED and Anne went nuts for it! “…read King of Hearts by L.H. Cosway and seriously one of the best books I’ve read this year! I was intrigued by Oliver King and his story since Hearts of Fire and was anxiously awaiting his book. So happy it didn’t disappoint! Seriously L.H. Cosway writes such unique, amazing and heart breaking stories she has become a favorite author of mine.“- Inspiring You (Unraveling You Book 4) by Jessica Sorensen <— JUST RELEASED
- What She Doesn’t See by Debra Webb <— JUST RELEASED (she cleans up crime scenes and finds something at one…)
- I SEE YOU by Ker Dukey & D.H Sidebottom <— JUST RELEASED and it sounds deliciously creepy!
- Secrets at Maple Syrup Farm (Once in a Lifetime) by Rebecca Raisin <— JUST RELEASED and sounds sweet… she heads off on her own to a new place and runs into a grumpy guy…
- Point Blank (Lawmen Book 4) by <— JUST RELEASED and this one sounds crazy! She sells her art at trade shows and realizes it’s got drugs hidden in it… and the sexy cop she meets has been following her for a reason.
Pure Abandon by Jeannine Colette <— ARSEN FEEL ALERT!!! This recent release is back on the list ’cause Neika recommends it!! “…read Pure Abandon by Jeannine Colette yesterday had an Arsen feel…the whole neglected wife and super attractive boss. Surprisingly really good…5 stars” and Cheryl agrees BIG TIME!! “Just finished Pure Abandon. LOVED it!!! Well-written, angsty, love-triangle. It reminded me of Arsen, maybe not in the level of angst, but a h who is married, thought she knew what she wanted in order to be happy, but she ends up questioning her life, her husband, her choices. I knew all along who I thought she should end up with, but I still felt maybe she should choose the other MC. *my heart hurt for him* That said, I think it ended how it should. That epilogue *sigh* …heart palpitations wondering who she would choose…and that ending *tear running down my face*”- Arsen. A broken love story by Mia Asher <— And while we’re talking about Arsen… here it is!!! Tore my heart OUT!!!! Over and over and over again. MichelleS: “…. Shhhhh… Don’t tell anyone… I never read Arsen (it was mentioned again earlier in this thread)… Peanut gallery is in full force lately” and Cheryl just lost it! LOL! “*whisper/yells* MichelleS, whaaat?!!!! Arsen was a great read!!! All kinds of angsty and I think Maryse gave it 5* Get started before the peanuts rain down on you.” and Ela agrees: “Arsen rocked my worled….just sayin’”
- Toxic by Kim Karr <— Cheryl is enjoying this one!! “It’s a standalone and so far it’s good. Have a feeling there are some major twists/angst coming up.
“ - Obligation: Obligation ((Underground Kings Series) Book 2) by Aurora Rose Reynolds <— HAS TO MARRY HER TO SAVE HER ALERT! super-bargain priced and a standalone! “Kai has been watching Myla from afar since he took over the family business from his father and inherited the responsibility of keeping her safe. When word gets back to Kai that Myla is not only in danger, but that his assets are being compromised, he immediately jumps into action and does the only thing that can be done at the time by marrying her…“
- DIRTY (The Vengeance Duet Book 1) by A.C. Bextor <— BIKER BOOK ALERT! Recently released and super-bargain priced right now! Her very young niece (daughter of an MC whore) is imprisoned in an MC and her ex-biker friend is going to help her get her out… “In order to get to Casey, Max must find a way to infiltrate the MC. Setting up a meet with Hoss, Satan’s Creed’s President who’s known for his depravity as much as his double-crossing ways, it’s made clear that forming an alliance is going to be more of a challenge than he expected. Now he must prove his loyalty to the club and in doing so, he’s forced to get his hands… dirty…“
- Unruly by Cora Brent <— ANGSTY ROMANCE ALERT!! Bargain priced and lots of great reviews on this one! “I would forget him. Yes, I had to forget him. Through the years, triumph or heartbreak would bring us together. Only to shatter us once more. It was never over though. It never will be.“
Sloth: A Sinful Secrets Novel by Ella James <— CRAZY TWIST/SOB-FEST ALERT!! Back on the list ’cause Arianna just discovered it and went crazy for it, saying: “I just finished reading this amazing book that I thought many others would like to hear about. It’s titled Sloth by Ella James. This book had me hooked from the very beginning. It’s dark, gritty, with a love story like no other. There is a huge twist near the end of the book so I can’t give much away. You just have to read it! I literally had to set the book down a few times because my tears were affecting my reading abilities. My roommates looked at me like I had lost my mind, but I just couldn’t explain to them how connected I felt to these characters, and how their pain felt like my pain. For warning it is a very steamy read, and a little confusing at times, but what that all amounts to is a beautifully tragic love story.“- Capitol Submission: The Complete Collection Box Set by Skylar Cross <— Erika HIGHLY recommends this! “…i read one series Capitol Submission, its a 4 part serial. Oh. My. God! I loved it!!!! So yeah just wondering which to go to next…” Sounds full of mystery and intrigue and STEAM! “Terissa can’t stop herself from giving in to submissive encounters with a mysterious dirty-talking dominant man whose face she has never seen…a man with a dark secret and a VERY high position in the U.S. Government…“
- Manwhore +1 (The Manwhore Series) by Katy Evans <— Bringing this one back ’cause it got Anne out of a reading funk!!! “I was in a reading funk for several weeks. Nothing grabbed my attention which totally sucked lol! But thanks to Manwhore +1 my reading rut is over! Yaay! Loved that book and Malcolm was awesome! A perfect ending to book 1! I hope Katy wrotes about Tahoe and Callan next
“ - Warprize (Chronicles of the Warlands Book 1) by Elizabeth Vaughan <— RECOMMENDED FOR MORE LIKE TGOT and Golden Dynasty!! And Michelle enjoyed!! “Ok finished Warprize and the second book, Warsworn, already and definitely enjoyed them. The story is very emotional and has an abundance of great characters.”
- Caged: Takedown Teague by Shay Savage <— MMA FIGHTER THE “SHAY SAVAGE” WAY ALERT! Back on the list from the last batch of new releases ’cause Paula really liked it! “Caged is very good BUT does have a CH. Not an oh no, but a “I really want to know what happens” one! Book 2 out 4th August and book 3 25th August so not too long to wait but I have read the synopsis of both and they are going to give major feels!“
- Black Dawn (Titan Book 8) by Cristin Harber <— Another from the latest batch of new releases and it’s getting rave reviews too! Denise is loving it! “70% done and all I can say is HOT HOT HOT!” and Cathy agrees! “I started Black Dawn last night and oh my hot holiness!!! Got me women from the get go ..“
- Sacrifice by Adriana Locke <— DEAD-HUSBAND’S BROTHER/TEARJERKER ALERT!! Recent release that is back on the list ’cause Stacey loved it! “Loved, loved, loved, Sacrifice!!!! Been a long time since a book made me cry. Roller coaster of emotions ****sigh****” and Dani agrees! “Sacrifice was AMAZING!!! Best book in a long time. Definitely a 5 * for me”
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And for AUDIOBOOK LOVERS
For those going on a road trip soon, or maybe you’ve got some projects that require both hands this weekend but still allows you to “listen”… check out the free audible trial + 2 free ebooks deal —>- AND! Here’s the fun-tool again! —> Find out which of YOUR Kindle books are available as AUDIOBOOKS AT A BARGAIN-PRICE!<—
Audiobooks for ebook super-sale prices. I’m thrilled with that, and what’s fun is you can flip flop from reading it, to listening to it without losing your spot… This thing is so cool (Amazon calls it “Matchmaker“)! It’s an Amazon feature, that scans your Kindle books and will list all of the ones you have that are also available as an audiobook at a discounted price (not normal audiobook prices). This way, you can switch back and forth, seamlessly between your ebooks and your audiobooks. VERY COOL! (This is the “Whispersync” thingie).
Okay so MY Matchmaker shows these books in my library with audiobooks that are awesome sounding for super cheap if you already have the ebook: - Unbeloved: Undeniable, Book 4 by Madeline Sheehan <— If you already have this one in ebook, you can get the audiobook for so cheap!
- Hate to Love You by Elise Alden <— Angsty bad girl had a kid by her sister’s fiancé!! If you have the ebook, the audiobook is bargain priced too!
- The Will by Kristen Ashley <— Already have the ebook? Audiobook is super-bargain priced!
- Bad Things: Tristan & Danika #1 by R.K. Lilley <— Ooooh each one in this trilogy, too!!!! 😀
- AND! Here’s the fun-tool again! —> Find out which of YOUR Kindle books are available as AUDIOBOOKS AT A BARGAIN-PRICE!<—
PRE-ORDERS (This month!!)
- Outside (Rock Stars, Surf and Second Chances #1) by Michelle Mankin – July 19th 2015
- Life Before Damaged Vol. 7 (The Ferro Family) (Life Before Damaged (The Ferro Family)) by H.M. Ward – July 20th 2015
Chaos (Mayhem) by Jamie Shaw – July 21st 2015- Over The Top (Entangled Brazen) (Maverick Montana) by Rebecca Zanetti – July 21st 2015
- The Reeducation of Savannah McGuire by Heidi McLaughlin – July 21st 2015
- Never Loved: A Dark Obsession Novel by Charlotte Stein – July 21st 2015
- Breaking Her Rules: Beyond the Cage by Jennifer Snow – July 21st 2015
- Scattered Ashes (Shattered Promises, #4) by Jessica Sorensen – expected release date July 21st 2015
Truth or Beard (Winston Brothers Book 1) by Penny Reid – July 21st 2015- Vanni: A Prequel (Groupie Book 4) by Ginger Voight – July 24th 2015
- Targeted (Brides of the Kindred Book 15) by Evangeline Anderson – July 24th 2015
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Maryse!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Finally reading Jezebel!!!! I CAN’T WAIT FOR YOUR REACTION ONCE YOU ARE DONE!
I am so happy you picked Jezebel Maryse! I flew through that book too….didn’t even realize it was that long! The novella is a MUST read!
Regarding the list above, I See You!!! Whoa, 1-click!
Ah, Maryse… I feel the need to mention my 2am WTF profanity laden post earlier this week haha, don’t say I didn’t warn you. Jezebel is AMAZING!!
I am so on the fence, I have no idea what to read. I need something to WOW me. I haven’t read Arsen… or FCH…or even dipped my toe into the KA pool.
Grey???? No KA???? I’m thinking that’s blasphemy!
Arsen rocked my worled….just sayin’
I know Ela, I know once I start, I won’t be able to stop myself.
Just read the blurb for ‘I See You’ ~*hard swallow* Pulling the blanket over my head…
Grey!!!! Arsen!!!!! Just do it!!!!!
Ker Dukey is one twisted writer…of course I got I See You!
Did y’all read Facade (Deception, #1) by D.H. Sidebottom and the rest of the series???? Ker co-authors it and WOW just WOW!
*chanting….Arsen Arsen Arsen*
Alright I one-clicked both. But before I go any further…
Is Arsen a cliffy?
NOPE Arsen is a standalone. There is a sequel but but not a continuation.
Grey. Oh my. You’ve not read Arsen, FCH or KA books? *shakes head* We’ve failed at book pressuring you.
If you only read one KA book, read Golden Dynasty. It’s second in the Fantasyland series but I read it first and had no issues figuring things out.
But for now… *throws handful of Arsen peanuts at Grey*
You ladies who have read Jezebel…try and tell me y’all aren’t giddy waiting for Maryse’s reaction to it… 😛
*sing-songy voice* Maryse is gonna fliiiii-iiiip!!!!
YAY!!!! I LOVE FLIPPING!!!!!
*gulp* I’m scared. Hold me?
I’ve already typed my guesses randomly throughout the book. LOL!!!
Amy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Totally awaiting the reaction and her &%$#$%^^$#%^^&&^%%$$$ after wards…
As for KA??? Ride Steady IS A MUST READ ALONG WITH HEAVEN AND HELL and then the rest must follow, I wouldn’t hurry with the Rock Chicks as much as with the others…
I SAY SWEET DREAMS!!! Kristen Ashley’s Sweet Dreams was my first and HOOKED ME HARD!
Aw, come here Maryse… *wraps arms around Maryse*
*covertly gives thumbs-up to Ela*
😛
*hugs* Maryse…. *snickering* on the sidelines
Ker Dukey is a twisted author. I did like FaCade and CadeNce, though the sequal wasn’t near as tense as the first book.
So…..are there wild dogs in Jezebel?
I’m snacking on my popcorn waiting for Maryse’s reaction.
I guess I’m gonna go Arsen now. I mean… read Arsen, not torch stuff.
Amy, you guys haven’t failed me. I just am really busy during the school year and dont have as much down time! Who says summer vacations are just for kids?!?! Because I am enjoying the heck out of mine this year!
Agreed Tessa! It was still pretty good.
Bev? If there are wild dogs in Jezebel will that motivate you to read it?
Great list Maryse! I need to read Jezebel and Arsen ASAP! Which one should I read first?
Finished Maybe in Another Life and loved it!! So unique! A 5 star read for sure!
*hugs* Maryse…..can’t wait for your reaction! I have all my friends reading it right now too! Love it!
Sweet Dreams was my first KA book too and I loved it! I think I found it and KA through this awesome blog and Maryse’s recommendation!
Do they eat her?
LOL bev!!!!! 😛 *snort* You guys are KILLING me.
Anne oh I LOVEd it too!!! Such a unique story…
I’d say Arsen next ’cause I haven’t finished Jezebel, BUT if you choose Jezebel you’ll be reading ti with me! 😛
Jean, Grey, Ela and Amy… I can’t wait!!!
Thank goodness for a short list, not too much damage in the book purchase department (makes up for the rest of the week…)
I haven’t read Arsen yet (on my TBR) so is Jezebel! But I have read KA (and all the FCH books) so no peanuts for me :0)
Maryse I think I am going with Jezebel next! Its sound pretty unique and intriguing 😀
I also added to me TBR pile A Pound of Flesh and The Man I Love. So many great reads lately and so happy my book funk is over!!
If I recall correctly, SHE “eats” the dog
I just finished Jezebel today. Fantastic read. Finished Lying in Wait, too.
Yay Jen! So glad everyone is reading it! The novella is an absolute necessity!
Ella, lol.
*snort* 😛
OMG Bev. *snickers* Actually, there are these adorable little ponies who love sugar cubes but she decides that horse meat sounds yummy so they don’t last very long. 😛
Anne, you can’t go wrong with Jezebel or Arsen…two different kinds of feels but both are GREAT and will mess with ya!!!
Agreed Jean…the followup novella, Lying In Wait, is a must and helps, um, process the ending of Jezebel. 😉
Tessa’s hair is going to start changing color soon. First FCH, now that Jezebel is eating the ponies!!
* turns away so I don’t look directly at Tessa*
LOL!! Oh crap, if her hair starts changing we’re all screwed. *hides face in Bev’s shoulder* Shhhhh…don’t make eye contact with her…
Amy I am 15% and really liking it so far! Gabrielle intrigues me though.
Just make no eye contact. I think it just curled up a bit, give her space & time.
# 9 is for MichelleS.
# 6 is just disturbing and WRONG.
#4 is surprising. Do you all remember this movie, its like seeing the grown up Neville from HP movies, lol. Think I like lumberjack more.;-)
LOL!! Don’t look her in the eyes, for sure!!! 😉
LMAO
Maryse, do you know about the hair and eyes?
Lol I for got to add the link for my #s.
https://smexybooks.com/2015/07/smexys-top-ten-july-17.html
She doesn’t yet. She won’t read WIR anymore than she’d read WIR.
Now, my hair did start to change color, but sadly, it washed out. All my anger has been chlorinated away. *IRL my hair did that. The red I tried to have different shades rather than totally different colors lasted two weeks. :/ )
That poor kitty!
erm, I meant, she won’t read WIR anymore than FCH. Geesh. I can’t even blame autocorrect for that one.
Wait, Bev… What is “disturbing” about number 6?
I have no clue why I always avoid Arsen. It’s my Surviving Raine, Amy style, I guess? I’ll download the sample…
But right now… I started Jezebel!
I’m only at 10%. My problem is, I’m overanalyzing everything because of all the WTFs and OMGs about this book. I just need to stop & enjoy it, you know?
I have stayed away from Arsen too, I don’t typically enjoy cheating storylines …that’s just me… Golden Dynasty all the way for KA and I’m also partial to Mystery Man. Pound of Flesh is very good!! Just finishing up Ride Steady …so awesome. Next I think will be King. But maybe Jezebel oh no decisions!!
MichelleS, number six is in reference to the link she has. It’s definitely wrong on so many levels.
Grey: have read every single KA book… I’m with Maryse: Sweet Dreams… Or Golden Dynasty. To be able to read those for the first time? Wow!
The book? secrets at mad whatever??? I’m an idiot… I don’t get it…
Oh agreed I’ve read all of KA too don’t care what it is I love it just read them all!!
No MichelleS, sorry. I forgot to add link. So the #s correspond not to the book list but the link I added to a later comment. Like 3 comments down from that one.
JUMPING FOR JOY!!! oh wow!! You are soooooo right, Bev! Rhage is my number one vamp from that series!!! I loved that he hit so much time in the last book, and now he gets his own? Again? Swoon….
All this Golden Dynasty talk, check out #17 – the series is very good and the closest to GD that I’ve read in regards to subject matter.
Ok the Helen Harper Blood Destiny series is good too – why have I waited so long to read this series? I’m moving onto book 2…
Oh and I See You is a total 1-click for me too!
I loved Rhage’s book too. Besides Blay & Qhuinn his is my favorite story. But just lost interest in it and I really do not want to read the last one. *shrug*
I see a theme. Rain has his Tairen and Rhage his beast.
Hey Girls…. Has anyone read The Ruthless People series, all 3 are super bargains right now, and I had them in my TBR list, but I don’t remember why??
Hug for Maryse reading Jezebel *knowing wink to Jean, Amy and Ela*
Grey, Arsen is so angsty good. If you like it, you’ll probably also like Pure Abandon that was just released.
I know that I’m asking for peanut rain, but I’ve only read 2 KA books and The Will was ok, but I felt Sweet Dreams went on too long, kinda like the comments on Fearless. Maybe like Grey I need to read another KA book.
Bev, funny list. I agree #6, some people have way too much time and money on their hands, or other body parts for that matter! Loved the Outlander clip and the book mentioned in #1, Playing with Trouble by Chanel Cleeton sounds good along with book #1 in that series.
Cheryl, if your still interested in KA maybe try a sample of Rock Chick. Its more on the fun and fast paced side. But her books definitely do not appeal to everyone.
I’ve always loved the nickname Indy.
Arden is queued up and I’m ready to read. I am insanely curious at how Maryse & the other Jezebel readers are faring…
Ooh I saw a BDB reference to Rhage, I was partial to V, mmm…I may have to return to him and reread his book…
Alright, cover me, I’m ready to be on the Arsen train, *wootwoot
*puts a defensive table on its side first* Alright, finally finished Love Unscripted. Honest thought? If the rest of the book had been like the last twenty percent, I’d have liked it, but for me, the beginning was too slow. Also, erm *hides behind the table* it was predictable. *sneaks off* Sorry!
The price is steep, but just saw this rec’d and so want to read it. Doesn’t it sound fun?
https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00QPIM66M/ref=tmm_kin_title_0?ie=UTF8&sr=&qid=
Oooh, that looks good!
50% thru Arsen *gah, the feels…* We are in a bar bathroom right now.
Which one of you threw this peanut at me? *cue dramatic tantrum*
😯 OH.EM.GEE.
*thud*
AH-MAZING…. simply amazing… that was… wow. You guys. What a story. So wonderfully written, so amazingly explored… so mind-blowing.
I LOVED IT.
Pulled the rug right from under me.
Right, Tessa? Just steep for first time author for me.
Eh, Jezebel Schmezebel.
Or do we give it a shot, Tessa?
Maryse I just finished too and I am speechless! I never saw that coming! Wow what a book! I am just mind blown!! I am reading Lying in Wait next! Wow!
OMG bev and Tessa.
READ THIS BOOK. IMMEDIATELY.
I just read an almost 500 page book in one day. THAT is how into it, I was. I started it last night and I’m already done, and OMG. OMG!!!!!!!
Oh GOD yes, Anne. Immediately the novella.
WHOA.
Just…. WHOA!!!!!
Next month, maybe. I am very grateful I only use gift cards online, because mine got hacked. It’s nice and empty. *sighs* The company will restore it, but it’ll take two weeks. However, that’s music and book money, so it’s annoying, not horrible.
However, I’ve got my library books to appease me. Heir of Fire is already really good.
Alright, after that book, you are NOT reading FCH. I don’t want competition comparisons. 😛
Told ya so Maryse…didn’t we tell her girls? I’m proud of you though Maryse, you didn’t come here and curse like a sailor, like some other naughty girl did. *oh crap, that was me, wasn’t it?*
Um, so Arsen… I’m legit dying, its like those horrible accidents you see coming, in slo-motion and vivid technicolor brilliance. I’ve got my hand covering my mouth, one eye shut while I wince and cringe and keep flipping the page.
By the way, you’re all grounded… *I’m so making an angsty list and you’re all going to read them with me so we can all suffer together*
Tessa, that’s horrible and scary.
Maryse and Anne, right?? RIGHT?!? I went from “yeah, I know what’s going on” to “okay, that was pretty predictable” to “wait…oh sh!t, that’s messed up!” to “WTF!!!!!!”
And I really liked how the POV’s in the novella were presented as well…oh man, the emotion in that one which didn’t have the chance to be explored in Jezebel. I love reliving books like this through you guys!!! 😀
Come on Bev and Tessa…you’re next!! 😉
Oh I did Grey!!!!
Just in a private discussion of the book and was asked… is this your review?
LOL!!!! *gasp* NO. I’ll be more polite. 😉
Just finished the novella and wow! Seriously this story is just so amazing! I thought I knew what was going to happen but boy I didn’t saw that coming! What a disturbing, extraordinary book! You all need to read Jezebel guys!
Amy you described exactly my feelings while reading it! I am still speechless! Its not easy to find a book that plays with your mind like that! What a great read!
Maryse can’t wait to read your review! This book blew my mind!
Oh no, Tessa…how awful! Now I’m kinda scared about the whole one-click thing being linked to my card. 😕
Grey! Arsen is emotionally intense, right? And I would LOVE to suffer through some angsty reads with ya! 😛
Its probably because I have had a very long day and am sleepy. But I only got through part of the sample. I found Annabelle slightly distasteful and some thing off with the writing. But again very tired.
Maryse and Anne, I agree, you’re following along and thinking yeh I get it, I know now how this is going to play out and then, BAM you’re blindsided!!
Grey, Arsen just tears you apart. I loved it! Bring on the angsty list!! 😉
Bev and Tessa, you know you want to read Jezebel now!!!!
Finished Arden, I want to simultaneously cry, scream, eat my weight in ice cream and drink a bottle of wine at 2am… This was emotionally devastating. I’ve got no words. Actually, that’s a lie, I’ve got lots of them, just they’re all discombobulated & mostly profanity at this point.
Wow. Just wow. Like I said…watching a train wreck…much like Cathy I knew it was going to be bad…and I kept at it anyway.
I’m not getting over this one any time soon…
I meant Arsen of course…my autocorrect hates me
Just finished love the way you lie by Skye warren it was …… Eh ok not her best at all wouldn’t say it was terrible I would say it just was 🙁 reading funk here we go again
Finished Toxic by Kim Karr. It was really good, although I wanted to slap the h a few times for the repetitious way she “handled” situations, but other than that it was an enjoyable angsty read.
Yes, yes, yes Maryse! So happy you loved Jezebel as much as we all did! Wasn’t it great that the novella was in you know who’s POV??? Dying for your review!
Grey, I totally get your book hangover from Arsen. Soooo good though right? Did someone here say there was a follow up to Arsen?
Offside by Shay Savage is .99$ today
Arsen set the bar pretty high for all other similar books. I’ve yet to find another book with the same theme that affects me the way that Arsen did or that I love as much as Arsen.
Jean…the author had said that she would be writing a second book but who knows. *shrug* Remember Easy Virtue? Well, the sequel was supposed to be released in May, but when May came around she decided to completely ditch what she had written and start from scratch. 😕 Love her books but don’t love the waiting on her. Yeah, I’m feeling a bit snarky today. Or bitchy. Whatever word fits. 😉
I agree, I hate when I’m looking forward to a sequel and then it doesn’t get released when it’s supposed to. Another reason I don’t like reading a series until it’s complete.
Trying to decide on next read. Read the samples for Crushed(cute), Flirting With Scandal (smexy) and The Trouble With Paper Planes (angsty). Did anyone read TTWPP yet? Another Jezebel/Sloth “mystery” type book.
Michelle – I picked up Blood Destiny #1, since it was FREE and you liked it. I am trying to skim really fast over the comments because I am reading Jezebel and am terrified that someone will post a spoiler. I am going to try and finish it today, but have a bazillion things to do!!! UGH!
Exactly, Cheryl. In fact, I would have to double check but I thought I saw that Mia Asher (Arsen and Easy Virtue) is actually working on somethong different altogether now. *heavy sigh* What’re ya gonna do, right?
Don’t worry MichelleS…we got your back with the spoiler thing. Any sign of one and we’ll give Maryse the heads up. 😉
Lol, spoilers. Nobody says anything about it other than it has a great ending. I’m not even sure what it’s suppose to be about.
Okay guys.. here’s my goody Jezebel reaction-video! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uliHatJjt30
I am laughing hysterically at your video! Those eye blinks!!! Hahaha! Love it!
LOL, that was great Maryse, your eyes told it all (by the way loved your eye makeup, is that blue mascara on your bottom lashes?!). Yep that was definitely a WTF just happened face!!!!!
LOL!!!!!!
You guys… that book BLEW ME AWAY!!
Actually Cheryl, it’s a waterproof “electric-blue” eyeliner that I line my bottom lashes with. It’s from Sephora, and while electric blue eyeliner is so 80’s, I can’t help but love it. LOL!!!
I overdid it yesterday a bit (thickness-wise), and didn’t realize it until the video, but ah well. Usually it’s barely detectable except in the sun.
Maryse!!! You’re video is the awesomnest of awesome!
LOL!!! Thank you fabi!!! So easy to video-react when a book makes me react so hard. It ws fun to make. I want another!!!
YES!!! *THAT* was the kind of reaction video I was wanting from you!! Perfect. 😀
And hey, if you can rock the electric blue liner (which you obviously can) then DO IT!! 😉
There ya go Bev…now you know a bit more about it so will you read it? Huh? Huh?? Will ya????
One more thing…
@ 1:54…Maryse…my dear…I seriously thought you were gonna hock a loogie, LOL!!! 😛
LOL AMY!!!!!!!!!! 😛
Lol Amy!!
Maryse loved your reactions video!! I felt the same! I was like “WHAT?? What just happened?!?” Lol Amazing book!
Haha that was perfect Maryse! Ok I bought Jezebel with all the previous comments but you sold me on reading it asap! Who are the hold-outs with me? Want to buddy read – Bev and Tessa?
Bev you need to read it! I want to know what you think 🙂
I am reading A Pound of Flesh and really liking it so far. That Carter is a bad boy with a good heart. Just how I like ’em.
I am a little scared of Arsen. I don’t usually like books that involve cheating and I’ve read some mixed reviews. But all of you seem to love it so I don’t know
MichelleS – I liked it, I’m on the second book now; they read fast. I’m entertained but so far they are average reads in the genre. I was craving a PNR with a heroine that didn’t know ‘what’ she was so that was fun. I’m intrigued enough that I will finish the series.
Anne I don’t usually like cheating in books either, but Arsen is just so different and so good!
I posted last night I tried the sample and didn’t get through it all. :-\
Though I.was very tired.
bev the beginning is a bit… “iffy” writing-wise. I’m right there with you. I too wondered… Ahhhh am I in the mood for this? Since I had NO idea what I was getting into.
I promise… the writing and flow and rhythm pick up BIG time and SOON!!!!!
*pouts* Bevvvvv come on! Where’s Tessa…someone has to read this craziness with me! Watch Maryse’s reaction again and tell me you do not want to see what THAT is all about!
Erm… probably not buying anything until next month. Card hack (gift card so no major damage) = no books.
Jean I’ll give it a try! So many people that don’t like cheating have loved this book so that tells me something! 🙂
Oh Tessa I am so sorry that happened to you! That’s so scary! The good thing is that it wasn’t your credit card!
Bev hopefully you’ll give Jezebel another try 😀
Michelle we are here for you! Its an amazing book that’ll blow your mind! Can’t wait to know what you think about it 🙂
Also who else is excited about The Bourbon Kings by J.R. Ward?? I can’t believe its almost here!!!
Carrying my blankie around with me today. Arsen wrecked me.
Not sure where the rest of my comment went???
I think I’m going with I See You, I need some dark angst or some dirty smut to allow my emotionally wrung out brain to heal… Lol!
Maryse, I liked the blue eyeliner!! Looked great!!
Bev, once you get past the first section of “letters” it gets so much better. I started it twice too. Promise it gets better.
I’m reading The Trouble With Paper Planes. Another book that has you trying to figure out what is going on. Liking it so far; well-written.
Butting in here but…what letters Cheryl? Are you talking about Sloth? ‘Cause I don’t remember letters at the beginning of Jezebel…
Anne, Arsen is phenomenal. The thing is, even though there is cheating in it, there is so much MORE to it than that. To me it wasn’t like Thoughtless (which I loved!) because the circumstances and issues were so different, and yet it was just as intense but with a heartbreaking aspect to it.
I’m loving Grey’s reaction to Arsen. It seems like it has been a while since we have had someone experience it for the first time! 😀
Ouch Tessa that sucks but again glad it wasn’t a credit card. Alright, I’m on my own then but with support – thanks Anne! Will start tonight once I finish the second blood destiny book. I’m scared-excited about it!
Amy I think I am starting Arsen soon. Is there a HEA? I just need to know that lol
Michelle you can do it! We are here to support you when your head starts to spin haha. Seriously though you are going to have an amazing time reading it 😀
Just added Pure Abandon to my TBR pile. Sounds pretty good and Cheryl liked it so it was a no brainer lol! Even though it has cheating of some sort I am going to be open minded.
Oh, Anne they brought you over to the dark side.;-)
Fabi’s turn today.:-)
I absolutely love the favorite’s list. It’s fun and a definite eye opener. *grins*
Still reading Heir of Fire. OMG, and who recommended Court of Thorn and Roses? ( I want to say MichelleS… ) and it’s supposed to be better? *squees*
What was THAT? I just finished Jezebel and the novella afterwards. I need a cookie. I need a unicorn and some baby animal pictures from Facebook, and maybe Joanie loves Chachi, or Love Boat. I’ve been scarred. Someone check…. I am SURELY SCARRED from this mind fuc#ery!!! Lord help me. That was intense. I have no words that are adequate to describe how I feel. I absolutely did NOT see that coming. At the end there I was still plotting out all kinds of twists that took me away from THIS storyline…. but it just kept careening towards this…. this…. this…. just read it. You’ll see….
And NO I am not reading Arsen after THAT!!! I need something with a HEA and sweet….. HELP….. maybe a good, funny shifter book? That’s the ticket…
Tessa: nope, wasn’t me… I think it was “the other Michelle” …. heehee… but I have it on my TBR list. Should I read it now? Is it urban fantasy? epic fantasy? PNR? is it teen? adult? I think it might be a good “get my mind off that crazy Jezebel rollercoaster”…. and slow my heart rate down…? Will it do that?
You know Amy, you’re right, the letters are Sloth. Guess one too many drinks tonight and I’m mixing my books up. 😉
Awww, Anne thanks. Hope you like it too!!
I’m still with Arsen…. such a difficulty book to move on from really. the character development… but lack of insight into certain pieces of the story, just to keep you hanging on… Gah!!!
Yeah, it was amazing, I loved it. I hated it. I’m going to need to dig out yoga pants and maxi skirts due to all the gluttony I’m imbibing on during my *Great Book Depression*
Just finished The Trouble With Paper Planes. What, Whaaat….WTF…I’m crying and shaking my head…not sure what I think right now, other than too many mind-f*ckery books lately and I need something light-hearted.
I am reading Arsen and oh the angst!!! Please tell me there’s a HEA!! I’ll need a fun, light hearted book after this! First Jezebel and now Arsen! Oh my poor poor heart!
Tessa, Heir of Fire is good huh? I’ve had my eye on it but its pricey so I’ve been holding off. Maybe I should try to borrow it. Although, that never works well with a series since I always want the follow ups which aren’t always available right away. *impatient me*
Shooooot, Cheryl. I bought TTWPP. Dang it! I should have waited for one of you brave ladies to review it first. 🙁 *chicken is me*
Finished Arsen at 4:00am and my heart is broken. I really didn’t know how this could end well but still I feel sad. I wish there was a follow up book because I feel like this story is not finished specially for one of the characters. I need to know that everything will be fine. Oh I am so sad!!
I need a fun, light-hearted book. Any suggestions?
Yeah, Fabi. The series is really good, but it is still incomplete. They don’t end on CH, though. They just end, knowing there’s more. I honestly love series because they are continuously in a world that grows, as do the characters. I just need a spread sheet to keep track of them all. Oh, on Desert Spear, I’ve decided to read a chapter of his history a day. Once that part is done, it’ll be done right away. The rest is so good. (I needed encouragement so I’m cheating and reading ahead. 😛 )
Anne, *sneaks into Amy’s house and steals manatee. Hands it to Anne* This will help! So, something light and funny? Boy Toy by Jay McLean. It’s hilarious, fun and utterly sweet. .
Oh, I’ve had Boy Toy on my tbr foreeeever. Moving it up!
Tessa: I am definitely in need of some light reading – going to pick up Boy Toy – it’s only 99 cents, or FREE for KU members, and it’s a novella – so it can clean my palate!
I was also thinking maybe a Rock Star book would wipe out any Jezebel leftover terror….. anyone read “Beat” by Vi Keeland? She is in relationship with the rock star she has always lusted over, but starts to fall for the opening act – and they all share a tour bus…. hmm…. love triangle… rock stars… ??? anyone?
Anne, seems like we’re in the same boat. *passes Anne my bottle of wine* Yeah, Arsen totally gutted me, I tried to start another book last night. It was a no-go. I kept thinking about Arsen…and Ben…and Cathy & gah, :'(
MichelleS, I loved Beat, but you really should read Throb first!
Grey – I recommend KA’s Golden Dynasty next – you had your heart twisted and been gutted by Arsen (I haven’t even read it yet, but I feel your pain) – and I am SURE that GD will wipe that all out. It will just sweep you away from page one. download the sample and just see….
Okay – I am spending more time perusing Goodreads and my Amazon recommendations than reading a book! Need something good… I was thinking maybe one of my oldies but goodies that I have been swearing I would read FOR YEARS. You know, THAT book… we all have them. Two of mine are: Lord of the Scoundrels, by Loretta Chase and Tinted Lines, by Jackie Williams. Anyone read either of these? Supposedly they were the best thing since sliced bread in romance once upon a time. Hmmm….. anyone?
Hey I know MichelleS
How about JEZEBEL!!!!!! 😀
Jean: aw man…. I have to read Throb first? whyyyyyyy? I liked the story idea for Beat!!!! argh…. threw a wrench in my plans…..
(that should have read Tinted LENSES not lines…. it’s been a while since I considered it, and I totally blew the title…. oops…)
Misery loves company MichelleS… *passes her copy of Arsen*
MichelleS you don’t have to read Throb first, Beat is considered a standalone, but they are interconnected. The H in Beat is a supporting character in Throb. Just gives you more of his story.
Boy Toy huh, I definitely need something light-hearted after reading Jezebel and TTWPP. Ugh, mindf*ckery, twisted stories have kicked my a$$!!!
I did start Flirting With Scandal. Book #1 was mentioned in the smexy books list Bev posted. So far it is smexy fun!! 😉
Grey, MichelleS and Anne…I have the perfect fix for your post-Arsen mood. Which, by the way, I’m jealous of. The mood, that is. And the fact that y’all got to read Arsen for the first time. *ahem* Anyways, for your mood…
BROWNIE BATTER AND CAKE BATTER DONUTS FROM KRISPY KREME!!!!!!!
Go get them. Now. NOW. I’m in a donut haze right now. Licking the filling, moaning, eyes rolling back in my head, toes curling, back arching…get your minds out of the gutter, I’m eating a donut! 😛
Ohhhhhhh, you’re evil Maryse. *snicker*
Amy – I’m in a post-Jezebel mood, not a post-Arsen mood…. I haven’t read Arsen…. I’m holding out…. no angst right now. I downloaded about 10 samples, so I am going to go start those and see if something grabs me. And, I still have that lemon-blueberry-cake with cream cheese frosting…. that will help with my mood. Also, I am one of those weird people who never liked Krispy Kreme donuts. Too sweet and sticky.
OMG that sounds decadent Amy. Love Krispy Kreme, especially the hot out of the oven glazed!! Yum!!!
*shifty eyes* I knew we were talking donuts… didn’t everyone else. *gulp*
I read Throb and Beat. Both very good.
Yeah, I’m not sure it was a good idea for me to read Jezebel and Arsen in the same week… I’m in the throes of a book hangover I’m not sure I’m gonna recover from.
Thanks Tessa for the manatee. It did help 😉 Hope you don’t miss ir Amy! Also thank for the rec! Getting Boy Toy now (just the name itself is fun!)
Oh Grey! Tell me about it! *grabs the bottle of wine* I shouldn’t have read Arsen after Jezebel. Too much too soon…
Oh Amy Krispy Kreme!! Yummy!
*scoffs* Well SORRY then, MichelleS. Let me rephrase it…your post-Jezebel mood. Touchy, are we? Did a certain book put you in a mood? 😛
They are soooooo sinfully amazing, Cheryl. I *love* cake batter anything. Even the cake batter Chapstick.
Here Anne, I’ll just take back Manny until you’re finished with the donuts and wine…wouldn’t want him getting all sticky ’cause those donuts are messy. 😉
Thinking about Anne’s HEA question…I think what *I* consider a HEA (which I won’t give away with books ’cause it ruins the fun of seeing y’all experience the story!! :D) and what others consider a HEA sometimes can be different. For instance, I consider it a HEA even if the couple doesn’t end up together but it is for the best due to the circumstances, or the H/h is stronger because of what they went through even though they may end up alone, or even if the H or h dies as long as the life of the surviving character is significantly better for having known the one who passed away, For me, HEA doesn’t apply solely to a couple in a book but can apply to an individual character as well. Also, if there is a sense of “justice” at the end of the book after some awful stuff, even if the ending circumstances wouldn’t be what we would consider “perfect,” then I may consider that a HEA as well.
But, if the H/h faces all kinds of crap and then has a crappy ending then that is NOT a HEA for me…such as if there is trauma, turmoil, etc., and then the H/h finds out they are dying. Y’all know which book I’m talking about if you’ve read it. Shhhhhh!! Don’t say the title. 😉 I have to have *some* sense of hope at the end for me to consider it a HEA, ya know?
For me, HEA is one thing. HAPPY! However, I don’t demand an HEA, as long as the book is good. Now, I’ve had a few where it’s been not an HEA but I loved it, but if I’m crying at the end, it’s not an HEA for me.
Not me girls. I’m a simple girl. I want an HEA, as in the H/h live happily ever after, in love and with stars in their eyes for the next 100 years and beyond.
There is ONE book, which I can’t mention because it’ll give it away, which MOST of you considered an HEA and I hate the fact I ever read it because a year or more later I am STILL upset about it.
For me, HEA or bust!
Alright, I have to ask. Prologues that hint the angst coming later. Love or Hate? Me personally, I hate them. They detract from the story and seem more of a gimmick to sell sampled books than anything added to the story.
Anyone else?
Hey…the good news is you’ll never receive an I love it recommendation from me that doesn’t have a guaranteed HEA. How’s that for a spoiler? 😉
Tessa, hmmm, idk, I never thought about it. I guess it depends on how its written.
Ooooh, I thought you meant blurbs. You said “prologues”. I AGREE. I hate those. They detract from the story.
I agree, Tessa, about crying at the end of the book but still loving it. Hehe, y’all know how I crave *those* kinds of books. 😉 But that’s what I’m saying…what I consider a HEA seems to be soooo different from what others do. Give me a sense of hope for the future and it’s a HEA (in a sense) for me! I guess it’s a good thing I don’t give away endings, huh? People would be misled. 😉
Actually Fabi, that is good to know ’cause I have made notes in my spreadsheets when I’ve found out there is a definitely a HEA at the end of a book because sometimes even *I* need a guaranteed HEA, especially after a pretty heavy and devastating read.
Holding out my bag…. come on peanuts. I need a recommendation.
I have hundreds… gah, probably much much much more than that of books on my kindle.
It doesn’t have to be a HEA for me. Although, if it’s not, right up onto my soapbox (or FB or twitter) I climb (in the wee hours most of the time) to b*tch about it. But, some of those same books, stay with me forever.
The BDB series, remember earlier I said my favorite book was V’s… not a real HEA there, I cried BUCKETS when I read it.
Amy nooo! Give Manny back! Please? Promise I won’t touch him with my hands dirty. Pretty please? *grabs another wine bottle*
I agree with fabi about a HEA. That’s what I expect from a happy ending. It doesn’t mean I’ll only read books that end happily but I prefer if they do.
Tessa I don’t like prologues like that either. I don’t know I feel it spoils the story for me a little.
For me it depends on the the genre. I’ve seen this discussed at Dear Arthur and Smart Bitches Trashy Books and agree with them. That to be a Romance and all sugenres of Romance it must have a HEA/HFN.
Otherwise it is a different genre with a love story.
Amy’s definition does not fit a Romance definition, for me. Other genres, yes those could be happy endings for me.
There is a book, that many here read, that many fans of the author felt kind of betrayed by, because her books are considered a subgenre of romance. Marketed that way and previous books in that series followed that HEA/HFN rule, as it were.
Ummmm…I love those kinds of prologues because then I KNOW that I’ll most likely be getting some angst. I love the anticipation of knowing something is coming, but I also love being blindsided as well.
I love all of our differences as much as I love our similarities around here…y’all are so much fun!!! 😀
And that should be author not Arthur, lol.
Bev I agree with you! A romance book by definition should end in a HEA. That’s why I love reading this genre!
I love our differences too Amy! That makes us more interesting and like you said fun! 🙂
Bev I was like “hmm Dear Arthur, is that a new site?” Lol
Run by the ghost of Dudley Moore.
Bev, good point about the romance genre/subgenre aspect. I guess I don’t specifically seek out romance books – even though I love ’em – so I don’t ever really factor that in, ya know? And I think I know what series you are talking about. I intentionally read some spoilers recently (believe it or not!) after reading the first book because I know I won’t continue the series, and I can see why the fans would feel that way. It was pretty messed up. 😕
Grey, 1:00 AM rants from y’all are the most fun to read, LOL!!!
Okay Anne, I’ll share him…he tolerates our snuffling on him but I don’t think the stickiness would go over too well. 😉 *sneaks wine from Anne*
Hahaha Bev! That’s a great idea for a book! Lol!
Thank you Amy!! *snuggles Manny* Cheers!
That was so wrong Bev, LOL!!!!!!
Which book betrayed? I’m so curious now! You can’t hint like that.
Amy, send me a message on Goodreads? I so want to know. Also, the one that was torture with no HEA. That needs to be avoided, though I know a book that was like that to me. (and I hated the heroine.)
By now Manny would have one eye and some of his fur rubbed off, nail polish stains and smell like a martini.
Mmmmmmm, smoked bacon almonds. Damn, PMS is having it’s way with me today…
M’kay Tessa…it goes against everything in me and I’m twitching now because of that, but I’ll let you know which ones they are. Oh, you SO owe me a drink now ’cause my gut is rebelling against this decision! 😛
LOL Bev!!! I’m cackling and snorting over your comment!
Tessa, here is a link. Scroll through the first part and the second say author and book. Lots of opinions in comments.
Do not click if afraid of SPOILERS!!!!
https://dearauthor.com/features/letters-of-opinion/genre-exploitation-unreasonable-reader-expectations/
I actually read a spoiler post/rant on Smexy Books, when it came out. Goes in more detail but the link would spoil. But could look it up there. Not sure, but don’t know if will read this book. Maybe if fixed in later books in some way?
You know what’s weird though? I love a series that is a Hea for the heroines lifetime but then there is a novella that takes place after she is gone. I would usually hate this but i really enjoyed it. And am so intrigued by the new direction. Just don’t think the author is interested in writing to much more in that world.
Huh. You actually named a different book than Amy. That says something right there. *goes off to contemplate*
Bev, I know exactly which one you’re talking about. The funny thing is, I didn’t mind the story twist in that book. I felt like the author told/hinted at it from the very beginning, so there was no unexpected tragedy for me.
Lol Now curious as to what book Amy is reading spoilers on.
I want a HEA. Always. That’s why I read Romance! Then under romance, I pick what I feel like: PNR, UF, Historical, M/M, contemporary, NA, whatever…. if it says “romance” somewhere in the description of category, then the couple better get through all the stuff thrown at them. I’ll cry at the awfulness along the way, but I need it to work out in the end.
The book that shall not be named by me is one that had a follow up to give the character a HEA, but I was devastated that the first book went there.
The one that Bev is talking about wasn’t a big shocker for me. I was expecting that.
Prologues that hint or foreshadow are fine by me. Gets me on my toes.
Grey: “Holding out my bag…. come on peanuts. I need a recommendation.”
What about my rec at 1:29 today, hmmm? **going to go put my chopped liver hat on**
After clicking on Bev’s link, I was thinking of a *completely* different series. Whoops. 😕 Sorry Tessa, but at least you know now which one I was talking about!
Bev, that actually wasn’t too spoilery, and I had heard those grumblings as well in regards to that particular book. I’ll still continue *that* series though. Eventually. Someday. *sigh*
Which one are you talking about Amy? put a link in so it’s not a spoiler!
*yanks off MichelleS’s chopped liver hat* Ew. No. Nuh-uh. I can’t have you smelling like liver.
I loved, loved, LOVED Golden Dynasty!! So Grey, I’m throwing a GD peanut into your bag along with MichelleS’s. That is a perfect read for you right now!! 😀
Throws a Dreaming of You peanut in Grey’s bag. And here is a Written in Red peanut.
Bev – did you read my comment about those two oldies but goodies? they sounded like “Bev type books” – thought maybe you had read one of them?
Lol. I have not. I have had Lord of S & her Mr. Impossible for awhile. I just saw a discussion were many stated they thought Mr. Impossible stood the test of time better. But I do plan on reading both, sometime, because I know many hold them in high regard. The other I have not even heard of……..off to Amazon to look up.
Tessa? You have read like all of those “classic” 80/90s historicals. Did you read these?
I honestly had to look. I did read Lord of the Scoundrels, but it’s not that memorable. Loretta Chase was never a favorite, but more of a “there’s nothing else” type author. That said, I think it was one of the best by that author. I haven’t read any of hers after the nineties.
Never heard of Tinted Lines, by Jackie Williams.
For a really good regency, I’d recommend (that Bev hasn’t) Mary Jo Putney, Mary Balough, Wind Dancer series by Iris Johansen, Stephanie Laurens, Linsey Sands, or Laura Kinsale. lol
Though just plain good historical? The Mallory- Anderson series by Johanna Lindsey. All seperate characters/ stand alones, I read them out of order and it didn’t spoil a thing. My absolute favorite was A Gentle Rogue. *sighs* James was one of my teenaged self’s BBF.
I have read Lord of Scoundrels and love it! Its a classic! One of my favorite HR without a doubt!
Oh I love Mary Balogh!! She writes such beautiful HR! The Secret Pearl is one of my favorites from her.
I also love Lisa Kleypas (she gave us Sebastian St. Vincent and Derek Craven) and Julia Quinn (her Bridgerton series is amazing!)
Well crap – I went to buy Arsen and turns out I bought it back in Aug 2013 – and according my Kindle, finished it …. so why can’t I remember this book? I feel like I am having a deja vu moment here… haven’t we had this conversation before Amy?
So… keep reading samples I guess….
MichelleS, can you pin point what you are in the mood for? That can be hard sometimes.
Anne!!!! Sebastian & Evie!! I love that book. I just don’t rec it as often because I do think you have to read the first two to fully appreciate it. Gah! Her writing. Hmm. I’m in the middle of a nice little novella but I have Kleypas’ Then Came You unread on my kindle. *gasp* just maybe my next read.:-D
And it has a pretty girly cover.
MichelleS want to read it?
Tessa, it was one of her myth books I read too. Not sure why I haven’t read more of hers. So, I think in my head I get J. L. mixed up with C. Coulter books, lol. I know one of them had horrible heroes.
Johansen, I’ve read a few of her Eve Duncan books. I liked them but, IDK, just maybe too drawn out. Lost interest. I read one of her historicals. It was good. Older hero, younger h. They started something then she finds out he is married. But it’s not a real marriage. Then the h winds up somewhere with the plague.
I know I’m late to the discussion, but I think for the most part I have come to expect that the books I read will have a HEA and when I say HEA I agree with Fabi’s definition. On rare occasion I’m shocked with the not so HEA. That’s when I’m up late ranting about a book!! 😉
As far as prologues, I’m usually skeptical that it is going to play out exactly how it reads. Like Amy said it keeps me on my toes and doesn’t really bother me.
Bull God is the one I read. Oh, that cover, lol.
Tessa, this is kind of a fun recap/review of Tender is the Storm by Johanna Lindsey. I know I read this one & at the time was prob really into it. Now I’d be all What The…… Anyway this gave me a laugh.
https://smartbitchestrashybooks.com/reviews/tender-is-the-storm-by-joanna-lindsay/
Ugh, I so didn’t like that one! Seriously didn’t like it, though I did like their daughters book in an average way.
And that review explains oh so well why I didn’t like it. OMG
“He also admits that he never intended to get married, but she can’t be mad at HIM since SHE didn’t intend to get married, but she points out that just because SHE didn’t intend to get married doesn’t mean that whatever poor girl he picked for this scheme would also not want to get married and basically these are two awful people who deserve each other.”
Bev isn’t Sebastian scrumptious?? And Evie love her! That entire series is amazing! I might re read it soon 🙂 Ohh Then Came You is so good! And my beloved Derek appears for the first time in that book! Please tell me you have read Dreaming of You?
Anne, yes that’s usually the one I always rec. And Maryse read it!!
Then Came You is her only historical I have not read. You know in Oct. She has a new one coming out(FINALLY!), Cold-Hearted Rake.
Oohh, I like the title of that one.
Tessa, help me out here. There was a historical I read and the hero (ugh) made the heroine sleep with the dogs. Ok, I sleep with my dogs, but still. And I think kept flirting with his old mistress.
Fabi, haven’t finished but the novella I’m reading right now you might like. So far it’s pretty good. Ivory by Lola Dodge.
I have been so excited for that Kleypas book since it was announced she would be writing another. Like hugging myself happy.
*blinks* Here is the sad part. Do you know the time period?
And do you know how many books have the heroine sleeping with the dogs as punishment?
Bev, that one sounds so good! I downloaded the sample because I can’t buy any more until next Friday. I think I’ve gone a little crazy one-clicking this month. :-/
Highland Velvet by Jude Devereaux? I don’t have a copy anymore, and don’t remember if she was put with the dogs or just a really crappy area. I think at one point dogs.
Velvet Promise, not Highland Velvet. Also, Rosehaven by Catherine Coulter. I swear, it’s a trope. I actually went searching because I thought Jude Deveraux wasn’t it.
Def read sample first. I used to always do that and now just one click. And get burned often. I really think I’m going to do the gift card budget.
Tessa I’ll look them up. I don’t remember Deveraux heroes being like that. Great hall with rushes and dogs lying about if I remember right. Would have to be like medieval, right?
Tessa, Rosehaven, it is. How do I remember the tied up with the dogs but not the rape?!?
And seriously what were we reading back then, lol.
Probably Rosehaven. Most of Devereaux’s heroes are decent, but Velvet Promise was the exception. I don’t -think- she was with the dogs in that one, but there was a mistress. Was the girl collared and chained? That would definitely be Rosehaven.
Rofl. Because the dogs were actually unusual vs the rape? There are a few books that it just finally was like, um… no. That was wrong, nope. Whitney, My Love stands out big time. Gah, that was angst, but I wanted the hero to become a eunich! (I confess, though, I read it so many times. I loved Whitney so much. She was an awesome heroine.) Oh and every Rosemary Rogers. She’ll scar you for life!
That book gets slammed now…..but I liked Whitney, my Love. :-\ Wonder if I’d feel the same if read it now. Yes Mcnaught for angst & Garwood for more lighthearted romance. But I didn’t like Garwoods contemp ones but did like McNaught s. I remember the one with the actor who was an escaped convict hijacked the heroine.
What? There’s a new HR from Lisa Kleypas coming out??? I am so happy!!! Finally!!! Yes!!
Perfect! I absolutely loved that, though there was one contemporary I liked more. Paradise. Oh, it made me want to be a CEO lol, Matt and Meredith were so awesome and again, ANGST. lol I also loved her Something Wonderful. I went through a few copies of that book. I adored the grandfather. It was angsty, but so sweet too. I loved it.
*grins* And you made Anne’s day! *plays music for a happy dance*
Tessa, Yes loved those. *sigh* I need to do some re reads. Her and Garwood were such an important part of my romance reading. Crazy, but it looks like her back list isn’t available in digital.
* high fives Anne*
Yeah, I noticed. I was looking at those and thinking, no wonder I find dark stories irresistible and at the same time want to avoid them. All those old historicals were so dark and angsty with strong heroines (the good ones were with strong heroines). *grins*
I wish I could magically make my paperback collection I lost appear on Kindle. That would be awesome.
“dark and angsty with strong heroines”. gimme gimme gimme – especially if they’re mediaeval instead of regency, I could be beyond tempted.
Rofl You’ve read Bertrice Small. Judith McNaught was mostly Regency in her historicals. Dark and Angsty medieval… Virginia Henley books.
Looking through Goodreads, I was reminded about Emma Holly. Anyone read her? I just saw one book was called Fairyville, but I’m not sure.
Oh yes a new Kleypas is definitely a happy dance moment!
Tessa, Fairyville is forgettable…read it but yeah not much I remember…
Started Jezebel but didn’t get too far yet.
Thank you! I’m so glad I asked. I just remember some of her steam was more memorable than the story except in one book’s case.
I read RUSH yesterday and really liked it! My heart is happy once again also thanks to the news of Lisa Kleypas’s new HR *happy dance*
Don’t laugh at me. I am reading “Beast: A Faery Story #2″… I needed it like comfort food, you know? That’s my go-to escape. It’s got shifters, vampires, the Fae (yay), different “planes” of existence, he’s a total jerk trying to dominate our poor little wolf-girl who was an outcast and now sold in the slave market as his consort! HA! perfect….. he’s a prince in his world. Dad wants him to grow and and get married. he decides to find the worst girl he can find just to prove a point… and she is feral in the slave market… LOL… so perfect…. no one laugh… I love this stuff.
That actually sounds really good MichelleS!! I notice is #2….did you read whatever the first one was?
Jean – no, because it was one of those M-F-M books I am not a huge fan of… the twins thing…. just not my cup of tea. It’s one of those cheesy erotica PNRs – but I swear, it’s always fun, especially after something like Jezebel.
That’s sounds great MichelleS. I love that stuff too!
Jean – it was published 4 years ago (during the height of PNR craze) and it is STILL almost 8 bucks for kindle! Crazy! I can loan it to you when I’m done, if you want!
Oh that’s right Fabi! You liked Brides of the Kindred!!! Okay – this totally reminds me of that!!!
I’m not always a fan of M/F/M either. It depends! Thanks for the offer, I will keep it in mind!
MichelleS I downloaded a sample of book #2 but I can’t figure out which one is book 1. Do you know? I just can’t read a #2 without reading #1 first. It brothers me. Lol
Well, I just checked out the first book, Bound, and it actually looks good too!! Haha!
Fabi, we must have been typing at the same time. I need to read them in order too!
I’m frustrated because I still can’t find it on Amazon even after you posted the title.
$8 for a cheesy pnr? bummer. Then again, I liked Vampiure pleasure house or wha5taever it was called.
I finally found Bound but there is nobsample download available. Oh well. I give up for now. 🙂
Fabi, I just saw a m/m scifi space opera on sale. A reviewer gave it a B. Chaos Station by Kelly Jensen.
Who is it by MichelleS? Because that one DOES sound good!
Is it Sophie Oak?
Yep Sophie Oak
*looks at typing* Could you tell I was in a hurry? *blushes* That’s beyond typo. I didn’t even look, just typed and ran.
Seriously I love cheesy erotica PNR. They’re light and fun, and sometimes just what we need. They are so out there sometimes, yet that’s what makes them great.
Fabi – it is Beast (A Faery Story 2), by Sophie Oak. I was searching for the “Fae” and Alpha Bossy dudes and this came up as the #1 match! And it had a bunch of good reviews on Goodreads, so I bought it. Kind of hefty for an old cheesy PNR, but nothing was keeping me interested after Jezebel and this kind of thing usually does grab me. I skipped #1 because, like I said, it was a “threesome” romance. There are a few things I probably missed, but it feels like a stand alone… just some background missing a wee bit… not much.
Thanks Bev. Looking it up now.
Thanks MichelleS, I figured it out.
In the book I’m reading the dedication is to her mother. It’s the last 4 lines if this poem. Very sweet.
https://www.yourdailypoem.com/listpoem.jsp?poem_id=352
Tessa just finished Boy Toy and loved it! It was so funny! I’m Batman! Hahaha Thanks for the rec!
*grins* So glad you liked it! OMG, Batman. I liked the weekly meeting questions. Those were priceless.
I loved those meetings too! And how about Troy? He cracked me up!!
Oh I’m loving Jezebel! I left work and hurried home to start reading and left the cooking of dinner to others. Barricaded myself in my office haha. It’s like an onion with all the layers and I’m completely hooked on the slow reveal. BUT I will drag myself away to post some sales/freebies…only for y’all!
Not seeing a ton. If I see more, I will post again this week. Now back to Jezebel or I will be up very late because I do not see it leaving my hands until I’m done!
Beloved by Corinne Michaels is FREE
Degradation by Stylo Fantome is FREE
Georgia on My Mind by Marie Force is FREE
Vampire Vacation by CJ Ellisson is FREE
Honest Love by CM Hutton is FREE
The Iron Sword by Jocelyn Fox is FREE
IceFlight by Casey Lea is FREE
Impossible by Laurel Curtis is FREE
Nessa by M Brennan is FREE
Midnight Jasmine by Kathryn Thomas is FREE
Accepting the Moon by KS Haigwood is FREE
Roomies by Lindy Zart is .99
Offside by Shay Savage is .99
Stay by Emily Goodwin is .99
The Iron Daughter by Julie Kagawa is .99
Black Falcon Series Book 3 & 4 by Michelle A Valentine are .99
Flat-Out Love by Jessica Park is 1.99
Thanks Michelle!
And more Jezebel love! Yay!! 😀
Which one are you talking about, Unwind?
Thank you Michelle. A few more for my tbr. 🙂
Thank you Michelle!
Thank you Michelle!
I just finished reading Easy Silence by Beth Rinyu and that ending killed me. I cried but I don’t know if they are sad or happy tears. Maybe a little bit of both? I don’t know what to think tbh.
Bev, do you mean on Fabi’s favorites page? Yep, we were talking about Unwind…the one and only series I am scared of. Yes, I said scared. Probably the only time I will say that so relish it while it lasts. 😉
Amy – the one and only series I’m scared of is Life of Anna. Did you read that one? I get brave and read a book, then run and hide and avoid the series for a while. Still haven’t finished it.
Do you mean Unwind Dystology? Oh. Em. Gee. I just read the blurb on Amazon. Holy crap Batman. That sounds AWFUL. I cannot even fathom! No wonder you haven’t read it. Scary…..
Yup. That’s the one we’re talking about. It is a GREAT series. Do not miss it! Oh, but it’s YA and you don’t really like YA books. It is nothing like Life of Anna. I agree with you on that one. I read one book and then take a loooong break before the next one.
Oh no, MichelleS…I HAVE read Unwind, the first book in that series. I’m just scared of the rest of the series ’cause Fabi said it gets even more wild. As terrible as the blurb sounds, it is actually a REALLY good story because it pushes you to contemplate some very dark questions. There is a scene that is horrifying in it (even though it’s not gory or graphic) which is why I’ve been scared to continue it, but she said there aren’t any more like that so I may pick it up again soon. Like, really soon. 😉
I haven’t read Life of Anna yet, but even that series doesn’t really scare me. *That* should tell ya something about Unwind, but I can honestly say it isn’t a depressing dark read either. Kinda reminds me of the movie Soylent Green but with a more disturbing twist. If I read Life of Anna will you read Unwind? Huh? Will ya? Come on, Tessa is being a chicken!
I just read the blurb for the second book, UnWholly and GAH!! I forgot about the name of that place in book 1…Happy Jack Harvest Camp. *shudder*
That settles it…UnWholly is next for me after I finish What If. 😀
Brave girl. *evil laugh*
-kidding!- book 1 was the worst (sort of)
You know what was the most heartbreaking for me? Do you remember the 3rd character who got caught up accidentally in the initial run? The one who was conceived and raised as a “tith”? His whole outlook was just heartbreaking for me. Do you remember him?
You guys, I read the entire Life Of Anna series so nothing scares me now. I’ve been checking out Unwind with all your comments and I’m intrigued!
Lol Jean. I agree with that. After reading LoA there’s nothing else out there that’s going to really make an impact.
The Unwind Dystology is YA. I always feel obligated to point out when one of my recs is not strictly romance or is a different genre or YA. This one has some romance, eventually, but it is YA. It reads as more of a thriller than anything else. I guess most dystopians read as thrillers, but this one more than most.
…there are SEVERAL on today’s list that I want, but I can’t buy any until Friday. *waaahhhh* Between games, music and books, I blew right through my budget this month.
Oh! I remember that guy! He believed so strongly in what was expected of him. 🙁 I wanted to simultaneously shake and hug him when he was insistent on going to the harvest place.
Jean! I think you would like this series! 😀 Fabi is right, it’s definitely a thriller. And it’s one of those YA books where it doesn’t *feel* like a YA book.
Hehe, we are not good for each other’s budgets around here. 😉
You are so right Amy! I don’t really need to buy anymore books but bought 4 more today! I will never catch up!
I admit, I’m a chicken. I had to DNF Life of Anna so fast. However, it’s not because it was dark, but the relationship between the bad guys and Anna prior to everything going bad. Father figure turned tormentor = uh uh, nope!
Unwind sounds like it’ll break my heart. 🙁
I would totally book swap with Amy, if i were you. But that’s prob more scary for her. Shed be all damn all these people just want to be happy. 😉
Tessa, you’re right. I think Unwind would get to you if that’s the problem you had with LoA. It’s not the same, but not far from a similar premise.
Bev, I think Amy knows better than to ask to book swap with me, because I would SOOOO make her read SR. *hehe*
LOL Bev!! You know me well. 😉
Fabi, it’s JEAN’S fault that I haven’t read SR! If she would just stop being stubborn and pick up SGT then this impasse would be over. Originally it was OTI or SR for her reading SGT…welllllllll, I read OTI and she *still* isnt giving in!!! 😛
Ooooh, when you do, we’ll buddy read it, Amy. I’ve still not read it, and they tempted me putting it on the Bully list.
Bully list??
https://www.maryse.net/books/book-recommendations/the-ultimate-list-of-bully-romance-books.html#comment-353272
Argh!! How did I miss THAT post?!? It has sooooo many on there that I loved!
*nods emphatically* A list of Bullies! I don’t agree that all of them are bullies, but still! *grins* And Surviving Raine is on it.
I had to add my own soapbox babble over on that post. Of course. *snort*
*grins* Good! It was like someone said, what would your ultimate list be, and poof! We get a bullies we love list.
A thought. I should probably go through all my books and find more. That’s my guilty pleasure after all.
Now wait a minute. I feel like I’m being bullied by Amy! Haha! I could have sworn I read something Amy recommended when she read OTI….i think it was Room 212!!! Yep that was it! And I read UTEOTW series too!!! I swear if you picked up SR, I would immediately begin reading SGT…..wait, I think you’ve said that same thing to me. We are both stubborn bitches! Lol!
Yep Jean, you DID read those and I even read Becoming Calder after your rec. Good lord, how long has this SR/SGT tug-of-war been going on with us?!? LOL!!!!