HAPPY NEW RELEASE DAY!!! Okay today’s list is just awesome and we’ve already started our next “buddy-read” (a new release right here on this list, in fact!) Actually we’re starting tonight, but Grace already dove in and is loving it.
But first, here are a few on here that have me extra-excited. My mini *blurb-jolt* list.: Going the Distance (not a new release, but I just read one from this author that I LOVED, and someone just told me she’s since read this one and loves it even more. MINE!!!!), The Problem with Forever (sounds heartbreaking and super-angsty and is from one of my absolute favorite authors, so this is a given!), Dirty Girl (super-famous actor responds to her hilarious “singles” ad), Wicked Heart (she’s still in love with this famous actor, and she has to work with him and his fiancee), Don’t You Cry (psych-thriller innocent crush that turns far more sinister… and I think it’s HER that’s the creepy one!!), Within Reach (her boyfriend dies, but he’s between realms and trying to reach her…). OH yeah…. and of course Karina Halle’s latest Smut (which sounds right up our contemporary romance alley and it looks like it’s our next buddy-read)…
P.S. For our buddy-readers out there (and right here)… I think we’re doing Smut, next. 😉 Er… Karina Halle’s “Smut” that is. OMG this group is hilarious!!!!! 😛
Fabi: Smut. Is anyone surprised it’s an auto-buy for me?
Let’s do Smut Maryse! I’m finishing up Mind Magic, but it seems a quick one so I should be done tonight. I can start Smut tomorrow. I’ve already downloaded it.
Grey: Me too!
Fabi: *high fives Grey*
Amy: “Let’s do Smut Maryse!” <—— *snorrrrrrrrrt!!!!!* Okay, how did I NOT know Smut was by Karina Halle?!? That makes it an auto-click!
Maryse: LOL Amy and Fabi!!! Yeah! Let’s DO Smut!!!!
No, seriously…
Jean: OK, gotta start Smut today. I was sad I missed the BR of Undecided.
Cheryl: I’m in for Smut! I mean how can you resist!!
It is part of our club’s name after all!
bev: Cheryl has been hanging with Fabi and joined a smutty ladies club. Bless their hearts.
Amy: Awww Bev…nobody to pass gossip notes to now that Cheryl has turned to Smut??
bev: *writes in glitter pen*
MichelleS,
Tessa is drunk and Cheryl has turned to smut. They are no longer invited to the slumber party.
P.s. I rented Pretty in Pink. AND Sixteen Candles!!!! Jake Ryan!!
P.p.s. I think the guy with the bun likes you. Do you like him too???? Y or NTessa: If I’m drunk, Ive been wronged! Just for that, I’m making myself a drink!
Cheryl: *whispers to Amy & Tessa, let’s crash Bev’s slumber party* I’ll bring the Smut, Amy & Tessa you bring the “drinkies”
Fabi: So, are we doing Smut tomorrow? Who’s in? DG and Linda, I swear I’m getting to that Billionaire book. I’ve been saying next since Jean recommended it. Next, next, next. But Smut first.
Grace: SMUT, SMUT, SMUTTING IT UP!!! Whoo Hooo!!! I’m always behind because of my time zone so usually I’m commenting on a old post before I even see the new one! Today I was checking the comments out to see if anyone has posted any reactions to Smut yet, but all that I saw was declarations! Well, that is that then! I’m starting it because it’s Karina Halle and the premise is freaking stupid good! Ha! I don’t think I have ever described anything like that before. Ok. Shhhh… All you little lovelies are probably sleeping right now so I’m going to be quiet while I slip on over here and get my Smut on.
So there you have it. Smut it is! 😉
P.P.S. Let me know if I’m missing any or if you loved any (from this list or elsewhere). P.P.S. Don’t have a Kindle? No problem! Amazon offers various free Kindle apps and a free Kindle Cloud reader for any and ALL of us to use. You can either use the free Kindle App for your smartphone, tablet, AND your desktop computer (just like you’re using a Kindle, but right through your web browser <— No need to download anything!)
VERS
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 audiobooks deal —>
- AND! Here’s the fun-tool again! —> Find out which of YOUR Kindle books are available as audiobooks at a BARGAIN-PRICE! <—
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!
Wicked Heart by Leisa Rayven- The Problem with Forever by Jennifer L. Armentrout
- Easy: Burnout, Book 4 by Dahlia West
- Forever Ride: The Hellions Ride Series, Book 2 by Chelsea Camaron
- Obligation: Underground Kings, Book 2 by Aurora Rose Reynolds
- Turn Me Loose by Rosalind James
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).
Beautiful Disaster: A Novel by Jamie McGuire <— TRAVIS!!!!!! MY FAVORITE BOOK SUPER-BARGAIN ALERT!!! This is one of my absolute favorite books ever, and Travis is still my #1 (and this is one of the only books I’ve re-read… many times) Here’s my review!
Angela: Yes yes yes, if you haven’t read it but it now!
Lauren: One of my all time favorites and best author – I read everything she writes including the spin off of this series! It’s so worth it. Also check out Paper Princess if you haven’t. Two of the best books I have ever read!
Gabby: Just started re reading it again last night! I think I lost count of how many times I have read it
Lisa: Ok. I was a holdout, but it’s on sale and your review was very good. So, I 1-clicked it.
- My Commander (Bewitched and Bewildered Book 1) by Alanea Alder <— HUGE RECENT FUNNY FAVORITE ALERT! Lauren found us this super-bargain and I know a TON of you here laughed and laughed and LOVED it! “My Commander (Bewitched & Bewildered Book 1) by Alanea Alder … We were just talking about this one last week….it is SO good & freakin hilarious too!”
Grace: MY COMMANDER…!!!! IF ANYONE PASSES THAT UP THEY ARE NUTS!
Lisa: On to My Commander and insanely giggling…. and annoying my grumpy husband who’s trying to watch football….reading about the SWAT team approach to buying tampons!! So silly…but entertaining.
Going the Distance by Julianna Keyes <— I’M THINKING SHE MAY BE A NEW FAVORITE AUTHOR ALERT! I went CRAZY just a few days ago for her book “Undecided” and Jen just finished another from her…
Jen: I just finished Going the Distance. I liked this one even more than Undecided! I love discovering new authors! Well new to me anyway! I definitely will be gobbling up the rest of Julianna Keyes books
bev: I want to say Going the Distance. Just as a whole it snuck up on me. The characters were so resistant and closed up it took me a while to realize I was completely invested. I can’t remember what exactly was happening in the scene, but the H&h were teasing or something and I found I had read it with a silly smile on my face.
LisaC: I started Going the Distance today per your recommendation. 60% in and loving it so far. Thanks so much!
Maryse: OMG JEN!!!! You may have just cinched my next read!!!!!
- Undecided by Julianna Keyes <— I (WE!!!) LOVED IT LIKE CRAZY!! So while I’m here, I will re-recommend my latest favorite (from said author, above). If you love Elle Kennedy (and her “The Deal” series) like we do, YOU WILL LOVE THIS ONE ➜ MY book review of Undecided by Julianna Keyes and Robyn agrees:
Robyn: I’m halfway into Undecided! You’re right Maryse, it has that “feel” to it. I’m love it and can’t put it down. I love the giddy and squirly feelings….love! This is what I look for in most books I read.
- Tapping the Billionaire (Bad Boy Billionaires) (Volume 1) by Max Monroe <—- HUGE HIT ALERT! And Jean INSISTS!!
Jean: Ok, I’m not screaming, but…..YOU ALL NEED TO READ TAPPING THE BILLIONAIRE!
DG: I know a couple of ladies have read Tapping A Billionaire by the oh so mysterious Max Monroe….so what is everyone else waiting for?!?! No but seriously…I ABSOLUTELY LOVED this book! Funny does not describe it…just.downright.HILARIOUS. And smexy. Loaded with hotness, tons of laughs, witty banter and smex. Benadryl and this book are 4EVER linked in my mind. Can’t wait to meet the other two billionaires in this series by the oh so mysterious Max Monroe!
Grace: Jean is so right about Tapping The Billionaire. It was clever and fun and a truly enjoyable read. The characters were vivid and ridiculous in such a fun way. Each of them has a crazy best friend and it feeds the chaos in the best way. Don’t miss it!
Amy: So, Jean and Grace…you’re saying we should be tapping that?
Jean: Yes, you should all be tapping Kline from the book! He is not your typical book billionaire. He doesn’t sleep around, he’s respectful, and a total gentleman (well sometimes)! I love him!
Linda: Absolutely adored this read!!! Sooooo Sooooooo sooooo hilarious and SEXY. Max and Georgia just make me smile.
Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell <— HEARTWARMING & WE ALL LOVED THIS ONE and what a HUGE deal that Michelle found us for today! Here’s my review!
Helen: I would give ELEANOR & PARK by Rainbow Rowell to everyone. I freaking love that book!
MichelleS: I just finished Eleanor and Park. Just knowing that this book sat on my Kindle, unread for months…. ….. man, that was so good. I am giving it 4.5 stars – the ONLY thing keeping it from 5 stars is the ending. I needed just a wee bit more. Maybe an epilogue? Something. Just something!!! So sweet. So good. Just a great reading experience, you know? You guys were so right.
- Obsidian (A Lux Novel Book 1) by Jennifer L. Armentrout <— PARANORMAL FAVORITE by one on of ur fav authors, and Michelle just found it on super-sale!
- Obsession (Arum) by Jennifer L. Armentrout <— PARANORMAL FAVORITE by one on of ur fav authors, and Michelle just found it on super-sale, too!
PARANORMAL/FANTASY/SCI-FI/DYSTOPIAN
Within Reach: A Novel by Jessica Stevens <— SOUNDS AWESOME! HE’S A GHOST? “Six months ago her life was perfect: she was on her way to becoming a professional dancer, her parents were still married, and her boyfriend was alive. But now, with her anorexic tendencies stronger than ever, she must decide which is the lesser of two evils: letting go to be with a boy she doesn’t love, or holding on to the unreasonable, yet overpowering, feeling that Xan is still within reach…and trying to show her something.“- Redeemed By Rilic: Olodian Alien Warrior Romance by Mychal Daniels
- Scarlet Rain: The Escaped – Book Two by Kristin Cast
- Dark Alpha’s Demand: A Reaper Novel (Reapers) by Donna Grant
- Withering Rose (Once Upon A Curse Book 2) by Kaitlyn Davis
- The Sway (Classified Series Book 1) by Ruby Knight
CONTEMPORARY
- The Problem with Forever (Harlequin Teen) by Jennifer L. Armentrout <— SHE HAD AN ABUSIVE CHILDHOOD but was saved by loving adoptive parents and about to start at a new high school… “of all the terrifying and exhilarating scenarios she’s imagined, there’s one she never dreamed of–that she’d run into Rider Stark, the friend and protector she hasn’t seen since childhood, on her very first day. It doesn’t take long for Mallory to realize that the connection she shared with Rider never really faded. Yet the deeper their bond grows, the more it becomes apparent that she’s not the only one grappling with lingering scars from the past. And as she watches Rider’s life spiral out of control, Mallory must make a choice between staying silent and speaking out–for the people she loves…“
Fabi: Amy, I was tempted by the Armentrout one, but I heard it hurts. You’ll love it, if it does. So I’ll wait for your reaction. 😉
Tessa: I’m willing to read hurt if its an Armentrout book.
Amy: Oh Fabi…you *know* I will give y’all an earful. A Jennifer Armentrout book that hurts? PERFECT! 😀
- Heart Breaker: A Nashville Nights Novel by Erin McCarthy
- Fooling Around by Noelle Adams
Dirty Girl (Dirty Girl Duet Book 1) by Meghan March <— SHE POSTED A SINGLES AD (while drunk) AND A FAMOUS ACTOR RESPONDS! “Waking up with a giant hangover to find my humiliating personal ad has gone viral is not my finest moment. Cue my look of shock when one of Hollywood’s hottest new bad boys, Cavanaugh Westman, comes knocking at my door and drops his pants…“- The Prince & The Player: Dirty Cinderella (Dirty Players Book 1) by Tia Louise
- Thirty-Six and a Half Motives: Rose Gardner Mystery #9 (Rose Gardner Mystery Series) by Denise Grover Swank
- My One and Only (Ardent Springs Book 3) by Terri Osburn
- I Promise You This (Love in Provence) by Patricia Sands
- Sex, Lies & Bourbon (Sex and Lies Book 5) by Kris Calvert
Wicked Heart by Leisa Rayven <— SHE’S STILL IN LOVE WITH HIM & HE’S A FAMOUS ACTOR... “After being out of her life for six years, he and his gorgeous fiancé are set to star in the new Broadway show Elissa is stage managing. The only trouble is, when late night rehearsals bring Elissa and Liam together, the line between what is and what could have been gets blurred. Now one moment of weakness is about to create a scandal that will echo around the world…“- Every Bride Has Her Day (Brides with Style Book #3): A Novel by Janice Thompson
- Stealing Jason Wilde: A Novel by Dee Ernst
- Dangerous Games (Aegis Group Book 3) by Sidney Bristol
- Too Hot To Handle by Tessa Bailey <— ROAD TRIP & SHE’S STRANDED W/ HER 3 SIBLINGS ALERT! “When rescue shows up—six-feet-plus of hot, charming sex on a motorcycle—Rita’s pretty certain she’s gone from the frying pan right into the fire . . . “
- The Billionaire’s Redemption (The Billionaire’s Kiss, Book Five): (A Billionaire Alpha Romance) by Olivia Thorne
- Turn Me Loose (Paradise, Idaho) by Rosalind James
- COMING HOME: a collection by Katy Regnery, Amy Harmon, KL Grayson, Heidi McLaughlin, BT Urruela, Kallypso Masters <— MILITARY MEN ANTHOLOGY by some of our favorite authors!!!
- No Greater Hell (Lost and Found, Inc. Book 4) by Jerrie Alexander
- Justice Reborn (Cowboy Justice Association Book 8) by Olivia Jaymes
- The Company by Olivia Gaines, Tiana Laveen, Xyla Turner
Don’t You Cry by Mary Kubica <— TWISTY TURNY PSYCH-THRILLER ALERT! A woman goes missing and… “…a mysterious woman appears in the quiet coffee shop where eighteen-year-old Alex Gallo works as a dishwasher. He is immediately drawn to her charm and beauty, but what starts as an innocent crush quickly spirals into something far more dark and sinister than he ever expected…“- Working Stiff (Runaway Billionaires: Casimir): Runaway Billionaires #1 (Billionaires in Disguise) by Blair Babylon
- Landscaper in Love (The Landscaper Series Book 3) by Robin Stone
Smut: A Standalone Romantic Comedy by Karina Halle <— LIVE LIVE LIVE KARINA HALLE ALERT!!!!! One of my favorite authors just released her latest!!! They don’t like each other AT ALL but are partnered to work on a writing project together… “…they fight tooth and nail. That is until they discover they write well together. They also might find each other really attractive, but that’s neither here nor there. When their writing project turns out to be a success, the two of them decide to start up a secret partnership using a pen name, infiltrating the self-publishing market in the lucrative genre of erotica…“ Grace is LOVING IT!
Grace: I’m am floving it!!!! And that is my inaugural “flove!” “I’m looking around the park red-faced and slightly sweaty, totally convinced that everyone knows exactly what I’ve been reading. Thank God for e-readers, you can read the filthiest $h&t and pretend you’re engrossed in War and Peace.” – Amanda (Smut) Ha Ha Ha!!! I am REALLY enjoying this book! OMG!!! The pen names! The tropes! The stories!!!! I can’t stop laughing, which is practically killing me because hubby is sleeping beside me and I’m trying to laugh silently. It’s impossible!
- Insta-Hate (The Instant Gratification Series Book 1) by Casey L. Bond
- Showmance by L.H. Cosway <— LIVE L.H. COSWAY ALERT!!!!!!! He’s a famous Hollywood star and… ”As a choreographer’s assistant, Rose Taylor has always faded into the background. She watches shows come to life from the side lines, but has never craved the attention of stardom. When rumours begin circulating of Damon’s involvement in her latest gig, she doesn’t predict how she will be thrust into the limelight, nor how the mysterious and strangely introverted man will need her to teach him how to be a star again…”
- Turn it Up (The Detroit Love Duet Book 2) by Kim Karr
Completing the Pass (Santa Fe Bobcats Book 5) by Jeanette Murray <— FOOTBALL STAR ALERT!- The Spiral Down by Aly Martinez <— M/M ROMANCE ALERT (and so many of us LOVE this author!!!) “Tall, dark, mysterious… Straight. We were both damaged beyond repair and searching for something so elusive we weren’t sure it even existed. But, when two broken souls collide in midair, falling is a given. I just never expected to crave the spiral down.“
- Chemical Bonds by L.M. Somerton <— M/M ROMANCE
- Overboard by Lynn LaFleur <— M/M ROMANCE
- Moving Target (The Target Series Book 3) by Marquita Valentine
- European Tour (Rocking The Pop Star Book 1) by L.V. Lewis
- 23 1/2 Hours to Live (Only Hours) by Angela Kulig
Good Girl (Love Unexpectedly) by Lauren Layne <— SHE SUDDENLY BECOMES FAMOUS ALERT! “With paparazzi tracking her every move, Jenny flees to a remote mansion in Louisiana to write her next album. The only hiccup is the unexpected presence of a brooding young caretaker named Noah, whose foul mouth and snap judgments lead to constant bickering—and serious heat.“- Rogues (A Boys Behaving Badly Anthology Book 1)
- A Son of Carver: A Carver High Novel, book two by Haven Francis
- The Mission (Clairmont Series Novel Book 2) by L.J. Wilson
- Sin & Secrets (New York Crime Kings Book 2) by Skyla Madi
- Behind The Mask by Linda Joyce
- Pyramids and Promises (The Omega Alpha Mu Brothers Book 2) by Kierra Quinn
- I’ll Be the One by Hazel James <— FAKE MARRIAGE COLLEGE ECONOMICS PROJECT “The senior Economics project is supposed to teach us about real life. Budgeting. Social classes. Careers. I was supposed to plan it all out with my school husband. I didn’t plan on actually falling in love with him, too…”
- All I Ever Wanted: Second Chance, Summer Romance (Summer Love Novels Book 1) by Katrina Mills
- Spring Secrets (Pine Point) by Allie Boniface
- Love Me ~ Through the Storm by Renee Kennedy
- CONTROL by Ali Parker
- Gena/Finn by Kat Helgeson and Hannah Moskowitz
- She Laughs In Pink (The Sheridan Hall Series Book 1) by Jessica Calla <— LOVE TRIANGLE ALERT?? She follows her best friend that she’s in love with… and then meets his new roommate! “…when Ben decides to play football for New Jersey University, Juliet doesn’t hesitate. She follows. Finally away from her past, there is nothing to stand in the way. Juliet will win Ben’s heart. Then she meets Ben’s roommate, Chase…“
- Once More: Mercy Heart Series Book 1 by Madeline Rooks
- The Reverse of Perfection (Bad Decisions Book 2) by Christi Barth
- Tell Me No Lies (The Black Orchid) by Magnolia Smith
- Reign Again: A Reign Jeffries Story by Ellie Keys
- Montana Hearts: True Country Hero by Darlene Panzera
Sociopath’s Obsession by V.F. Mason <— DARK ROMANCE? SHE’S BROKE & WORKING TWO JOBS AND HE BECOMES OBSESSED WITH HER… “Nothing brought me greater pleasure than the pain and suffering I inflicted on my victims. Until I met her. She became my obsession. Sapphire. My Sapphire. If I were a better man, I would have left her alone and never made her part of my life. But I was a monster. And monsters didn’t have hearts.“- It’s All True by Juliana Macintyre
PREORDERS (next week’s!!! )
- Sugar Daddy: A Sugar Bowl Novel by Sawyer Bennett – May 24th 2016
Charged: Saints of Denver by Jay Crownover – May 24th 2016- Wild Abandon by Jeannine Colette – May 24th 2016
- Easy For Keeps: A Boudreaux Novella (The Boudreaux Series) by Kristen Proby – May 24th 2016
- Glass Ceilings: A True Heroes Novel by A.M. Madden – May 24th 2016
- Make Me Forever by Beth Kery – May 24th 2016
- Until June: Until Her Series by Aurora Rose Reynolds – May 24th 2016
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The Spiral Down is supposed to be book 2 in a series, but the blurb says it’s a stand-alone. Maybe it’s about a completely different couple. I have to try it because – Aly Martinez (the name explains it all)
Max Monroe: Two established romance authors join forces to bring you more books and stuff. Together.—
Everyone is asking…who is Max Monroe? Maryse, do you know their real names?
I do not. I have two guesses… but there has been no evidence yet, for me to have come up with them. LOL!
Fabi, The Spiral Down is about a different couple. It’s Henry Alexander’s story (Levee’s gay bf from The Fall Up) 😉
Started Smut last night. I haven’t gotten very far, but it’s giving me that feeling!
I would love to read The Problem With Forever but it’s $7.99!! YIKES! That’s expensive and way over my Kindle budget. I’ll wait for others to read it and see if it’s worth it.
I have to say Julianna Keyes is my new favorite author too! I just got her book Just Once, so I’ll let you know how it goes!
This list is insane. Thankfully Smut has already been selected as my next read or I’d be squirreling big time!
Fabi, The Fall Up was awesome too, and yes, they are standalones. Love anything by Aly!
I’m dying to know who Max Monroe is too! Damn! We may never find out!
Thank you Tasha. I downloaded a sample for now because I have so many lined up to read next. I doubt I can wait long to read an Aly Martinez m/m romance. She’s an amazing author.
Thanks Jean. I’m in the same boat. Thank goodness we agreed on a BR of Smut yesterday otherwise I’d be running from book to book like a chicken with its head cut off today.
Robyn, I love that *feeling* so you are making me happy again!!!
Ditto Fabi and Jean, although I’d probably be jumping into the next “Julianna Keyes” read, up there.
I’m SO intrigued by her, after Undecided.
I do not want to put Smut down, but it’s crazy late and my eyes are so dry and tired I’ve gotta go to sleep. I. Can. Not. Wait. For all of you to get into this book! Happy Reading!
Within Reach, The Problem With Forever, Dirty Girl, Wicked Heart, Going the Distance, Good Girl, I’ll Be the One, She Laughs in Pink…clicked all of ’em. And that’s just going by your blurbs, Maryse…I haven’t even checked out all of the other blurb-less books up there!
Good thing I’m already decided on Smut with y’all or I would be in serious turmoil trying to figure out what to read next. I’m not even thinking about what’s going to happen when I finish Smut…
She Laughs In Pink by Jessica Calla is a great read! Takes you through a bunch of emotions and gives you the feels. Chase is my new favorite book boyfriend!
Would recommend A Queen of All That Lives (Book #3 in the Fallen World series) by Laura Thalassa. Released during the weekend but was expecting it today! Free for those with kindle unlimited. Way to end it!!
I did love Tapping the Billionaire. It was so sweet and funny. He was such a good guy. That isn’t what the title or cover conveys but I think that was what I loved the most. He was just plain good. 🙂
Alright, back to Dragon Born. Oh and Bev, nope, not a witch. Just um… a mind controlling mage. 😛
I want to be a Smut reader too! Er, I want to read Smut. I meant the Smut book. Never mind, I’ll just start Smut.
Give it up Sharon. There’s no polite way of saying it. Just roll with it and enjoy Smut. 😉
*snort* 😛
Has anyone besides Grace started Smut yet. I just had to peek at the first few pages and already I’m dying. So good!
I just finished Undecided by Julianna Keyes and Loved It! I am glad to see another mention of her on here because she is def a new favorite author and I’m on to Going The Distance!
Yeh, so many great releases to add to my ever-growing tbr list.
I’m glad too, that Smut buddy read is next for me!!
Also, happy shout out to Meghan March & Karina Halle for clearly addressing in their blurbs that their books are either a duet (and gives date of next book) or a standalone. I LOVE it when authors do this, because I don’t have to scour the reviews to make sure no CH or second book and potentially read a spoiler. I wish all authors would start doing this!!
Amen Cheryl. I’ve started to see a little more of it in blurbs. Thank you authors.
I’m going to check out Julianna Keyes other books too. Really liked her easy to read style. Thank you, again, Bev for mentioning her!!! I wuv you so much!!!
Smut, huh? Man!!! I was reading The Bird and the Sword & am TOTALLY into it, being an Amy Harmon & fantasy fan. Ugh. Now what? Keep reading? Go with BR? You guys!!!!
Yes, Maryse, Going the Distance by Julianna Keyes is a fantastic read! Was the first book I read by her and she is definitely on my ‘must buy’ list. My recollection is that Going the Distance does not have an epilogue, but each book of hers that I have read after that does have an epilogue. Another author who has been talked about on this page is Jewel E. Ann; however, the first book of hers that I read, Only Trick, is never mentioned. (Or I have overlooked the mentions). Like Going the Distance, it is different enough to really make it interesting (both have a HEA). I have read several books recently by ‘new to me authors’ that I really enjoyed, and would like to share with the group, but not sure where the best place is to do so. I finished Undecided by Keyes yesterday and, like everyone else, I loved it!
So many pretties to choose from. Dirty Girl – maybe too *dirty* for me? But it sounds fun *click* heh heh. The Prince and the Player – sounds like tosh but maybe fun tosh *click* Good Girl – Lauren Layne nuff said *click* I’ll Be The One – sounds like a cute NA. Sometimes I’m just in the mood for a sweet NA. *click*
Oh, stop me now …..
Oh yeah, and what about Smut as well. Tee hee. Found it on amazon australia this morning. Don’t know why it didn’t show up yesterday. My search skills must be pathetic.
Anyway, *click*
(Now, I have to stop)
Oh, and super-squeeeeeeeee. Christina Lauren’s latest, and last:-( book in the beautiful series is up for pre-order on amazon. *click* Not coming out till October, though 🙁
It’s called ‘Beautiful’ and will be Jensen’s story. (Hanna’s hot and bossy brother).
Can’t. Wait.
And I see Eleonor & Park up there at bargain price!! Another one of Bev’s amazing recs. I LOVED that book. Still remember it, which makes it 5 stars for me. I gave it 4.5 because I felt like I wanted more at the end, but, honestly, it’s a 5 star read. If you haven’t read it, get it while you can!!
Sadly the same bargains don’t apply on amazon australia. Eleanor and Park is $12.99 Australian dollars. I don’t think so. I might check out the library.
Yaaawwwnnn! I’m up!
*wipes hand down face*
That was NOT enough sleep, but I’ve got to read!
Putting my face right back in the smut – enthusiastically!
Jan – been meaning to throw more recs your way! Cheap, free, all wonderful. Let’s see… Mageri Series by D. Dark, Knights of Black Swan, by Victoria Danann (book one is FREE), and Throne of Glass, by Sarah Maas. If you’re feeling in a Fantasy mood!!! Weren’t you my fellow fantasy buff?
Oh yeh Michelle. Thanks for the recs. I loved D Dark’s seven series but wasn’t sure whether the mageri would be as good. Happy to give it a try. Have downloaded Knights of black swan a while ago but for some reason forgotten about it. Must have been reading something else and it got used to the bottom of the queue. And haven’t read any Sarah Maas.
Now I’m getting all bookie excited. Do I go for the mageri, or put my head down in Smut. (Oops. That sounded bad!)
PUSHED to the bottom of the queue, not used. Danged autocorrect.
Jan130- The Mageri series by Dannika Dark is a must read! I love everything she writes. She has new book in this series coming out soon.
Ok thanks Robyn. You’re persuading me. Is there any romance element in the mageri books?
Oh my goodness, oh my goodness, oh my goodness!!!!
Ok. So basically I’m just stopping and checking in whenever something gets me excited so I can draw it out and torture myself a bit before I keep reading to see what happens!
Oh! My! Goodness!!!
Grace you are funny. I love that you’re enjoying your reading so much. Your comments yesterday made me laugh and also made me want to read Smut (with a capital ‘S’, of course). I sometimes get the doldrums just after the halfway point of a book, but you’ve made me want to stick on the roller coaster of Smut. Now I just have to make up my mind whether to start that today or to go for Book 1 of the mageri. I seriously love Dannika Dark so I don’t know why I’ve waited so long to start the mageri series. But maybe Smut first?? (First world problems).
Yup. There’s romance in each of the books I listed. AMAZING characters. And Swan has the hottest elf EVER – Rammel Hawking. Fans self.
Jan180 My sweet, sweet friend! Nothing against Dannika Dark! LOL!! (That last laugh wil make sense AFTER you read Smut)
I really suggest you read Smut first because OMG!!!, but also because I think it will send you into a new series with a broken big smile and then if you are loving that series you can just keep going with it because you have already read Smut. If not, you might get pulled away from your series when more people start chiming in about Smut. I know I’m acting like a crazy person, but I’m being FOR REAL! The start is slow. I mean after the prologue. The PROLOGUE! It’s crazy, but then it slows down. It’s still really good writing because Karina Halle is very talented. It has a few funnies in there, but then she blows the doors off. I’m at 87% right now. ALL of my ranting has been for everything from about 18% on. JUST READ IT!!!! EVERYONE ON HERE SHOULD BE READING THIS!!!!
Not a “broken big smile” just a big smile – I have no idea how the broken even got in that sentence??? My phone is possessed, maybe it’s just reacting to my mania! I’m losing it! Exclamation points everywhere!
Took a break from The Life of Anna to read Showmance (I just love L.H.Cosway) and it was great!! Damon and Rose were so amazing together and Julian!! Love him! Can’t wait for his book in 2017.
Whoah, Anne. the Life of Anna looks like a pretty dark read! And Showmance does look good. It’s on my list.
Grace, with a broken big smile 😉 I guess I might have to jump into Smut. Oh dear, how many puns can we make with that book title? (I’m not tired of the puns yet.)
And thanks, Michelle. You’ve whetted my appetite even more for some fantastical romancing’. Have to carve out some serious time tonight for reading. Smut first, mageri second. Yum. (Hey, that wasn’t meant to be another Smut pun lol).
Ok, have to break my challenge for a moment. On my second book. Looking for Michelle? ?
Michelle, if you pop in try the sample for Rebel of the Sands by Alwyn Hamilton. Only 14% in so who knows, but feels like it is going to be GOOD. Fingers crossed.
Ok, back to my hobbit hole.
I don’t know about Smut, though it looks good. However, I did read the Mageri series and a LOT of us loved the series. Honestly, I liked it better than the seven series but that’s just me.
And I’m finished SMUTTING! I’m still laughing. Wow! SMH
she is such a saucy wench that Karina Halle!
Now what? I’ve picked up Going The Distance by Juliana Keyes. Did anyone like it? Love it? I’m kind of in a bit of a fog, and I’m not sure if I need a palate cleanser read of a completely different genre or just more of what I’m loving. ????
Anyone…anyone….
I SO HOPE SOMEONE IS READING SMUT! All of my references are nonsense until it gets read. I feel like I’m back in high school and my idiot friend is mocking me in front of others for using big words she doesn’t understand. Apparently, neither did the others. I didn’t feel bad about myself. I just knew I was wasting my time expressing anything worthy of hearing. I don’t want to be alone with all the goodness in this book though. The joy in this book just has to be shared.
Ok, have started Smut. So far so good. The prologue is funny. Barry Manilow? The knee slide? *snort* (Actually, I think I did snort out loud. Hubby looked at me strangely, anyway). Aaaand that’s all I’m givin’ away 🙂
Tessa, I’m excited to start The Mageri series. (after Smut). Good to hear some liked it better than seven series, which I loved. I don’t know why I’ve waited on starting it. Funny how sometimes you just forget about books you intended to read at one time or another. So many glossy, shiny, sparkly, (smutty????) new ones muscling their way in, I suppose.
Grace, have you read the Seven series? Might help you out of your book funk. PNR, altho’ it sounds like you’re on a contemporary kick.
Hello Bev. *gives tiny wave to acknowledge Bev’s visit but not wanting to disturb the profound peace of the hobbit hole*
*whispers to bev* Rebel of the Sands looks pretty sweet ….
Jan130 – Yeah, I mixed in a couple paranormals (Wolf shifters and Bear shifters) and a couple Highlander books in between the books I’ve been gushing over. None of them got me crazy excited though. I liked him, but I’m only vocal if it really knocks me over. I’ve been picking up all kinds of jewels from Michelle’s various suggestions of freebies and of course Maryse is my dealer on speed dial for a constant source of book crack.
I’m so excited that you are reading Smut! I’ll just say the prologue is not nearly as funny as the roller coaster gets. That was slapstick it’s going to get professional hysterical. I checked out some reviews and apparently I’m not the only one who disturbed their husband to the point of just breaking down and reading whole bunches of the book to him. And the husbands are all cracking up too!
Possibly in similar vein, but not as YA perhaps, has anyone read G. Willow Wilson’s Alif The Unseen? Kind of sci-fi meets 1001 Arabian Nights. I read it quite a while ago but liked it. Original, intriguing premise, well-written. Djinns and hackers.
She gave without taking Jan!
*cackling like a banshee*
*cackles back so much the family thought a chook somewhere had laid an egg*
I started Smut last night and I am around 20% at the moment.
Nothing crazy yet but I have a feeling where it is going, and I am soooo looking forward to it.
Pia! Get ready! I’m squirming in my seat with excitement for you. I wish I had the ability to wipe my memory and do it all over again.
Ok……are we putting bets on who the mysterious Max Monroe duo are??
My guess is on Elle Kennedy and Sawyer Bennett.
Anyone else want a shot?
LOL Grace now I can’t wait. I just have to finish work and then this charity run thing at my kids school. I have to run 8 miles – but I don’t normally run so I bet Smut is calling me afterwards 🙂
I am too lazy to go through all the comments Lisa, but what is this Max Monroe thing. As far as I can see there is no author with that name on tuesdays list???
*Jumping up and down* It’s Tapping the Billionare Pia!
It’s a mystery author. Apparently a team of two. Nobody knows who they really are yet.
Read it after Smut! *Crazy eyes*
Bev, Rebel of the Sands I saw before and it got my attention, had added it to my wishlist and was waiting to see if my library got it. Will listen to a sample when I get home tonight for sure, especially if you came out of the hobbit hole for it 😉
I have been MIA here for a few days and haven’t heard anything about Max Monroe. Well you clearly need your daily dose of book gossip here otherwise you are lost 🙂
Tapping the Billinare is added to my tbr. Guess I have to read it first before I place any bets on who are behind.
Pia, I kept trying to think who the authors could be when reading it. Mine is a wild guess….I really have no idea. 😉
Jan – I, too, like Mageri better than the Seven series. And I like some “smut” or NA in between my PNR or fantasy reads. That’s just where my preference is. Those books stay with me forever. It’s like an amazing movie in my head. Contemporary romance isn’t like that for me. Not visual. It’s mostly the same “guy” in my head. We’ve discussed that before! But I enjoy it in between.
Guys!! Magic Binds (Kate Daniels series) is on preorder and scheduled to come out on September 20!!! ‘happy dance woo woo’
I know it is a long time away but is something to look forward to.
According to Max Monroe’s bio, one is not Colleen Hoover, lol. I asked them to tell me who they are, so let’s see if they reveal themselves.
Some authors are so skilled and talented that any book of theirs is a great one.
“He smiles at me and against my better judgement, I’m smiling too. His smile is infectious.
Then again, so was the plague.”
Smut by Karina Halle
Yes Fabi! You are so right! Loving Smut!
So many on this week’s list! My next read will have to be Good Girl by Lauren Layne. After you posted about Blurred Lines, I have been on a binge and have read every Lauren Layne book! They are just good fun reads.
I’m currently reading Big Rock as it looked like Mister O was a spin-off of it and I want to read it, too. This listed added several to my TBR: She Laughs in Pink, I’ll Be the One, Completing the Pass, Showmance, Smut, Going the Distance, Wicked Heart. I love when there are so many good ones!
LOL Fabi!!!!!! I love Karina’s brand of snark. 😉
Julie… now you have me extra-intrigued for Lauren Layne!
Michelle S thanks for the lovely description of reading fantasy books. Yes, the good ones do roll out in your head like a movie. Some fantasy books/ series have really stuck in my mind and if I stop to think, I can see them as if they are real places I have been to. Some sci-fi books like that for me too. e.g. Sheri Tepper’s Grass. That amazing planet is an actual place to me, in my head.
Or Frank Herbert’s Dune. In my imagination, it exists. Has since I first read it as an idealistic teenager. One of those books you never forget. Or Middle Earth. I can still see the pictures of it that my own imagination created, before the LOTR films were released.
As a teen, my mad fav books were sci-fi (Ann McCaffrey’s dragons, anyone?) and the wonderful world of Georgette Heyer. (historical romances).
Aaah. Sweet memories of walking the long walk to the library to borrow a fresh Heyer or McCaffrey, and daydreaming all the way there and back.
Quick few 😀
The Pact by Karina Halle is .99
P*rn Star by Laurelin Paige is .99
Heart-Shaped Hack by Tracey Garvis Graves is .99
The Resistance by SL Scott is FREE
Love Surfaced by Michelle Lynn is FREE
Outside the Ropes by Ashley Claudy is FREE
Reft by Libby Austin is FREE
Still not Smut-ting it up yet. 🙁 I was studying for an exam until midnight last night and then I had a full day today. How is it working for everyone?
OH! And for those who read Bad Romeo/Broken Juliet (Jean!!!)…did you know Wicked Heart is about the sister? Sounds like it will be more angsty FUN! 😀
I’m smutting too. Happily so. 😛
Started Smut. What a prologue. Love Karina Halle’s tongue-in-cheek writing.
Want to read Wicked Heart, but $9.99?? Think I’ll wait.
FLUFFY!!!!!!
Julie! Good Girl looks good! How is it?
Grace, I was gonna say that.
FLUFFY!
Amy, Smut is good!!!
Fabi!
I KNOW!!!! IT IS SO GOOD!!!
What percentage are you at? I need to live vicariously!
Amy! Smut will be the perfect reward for all your hard work, but be careful where you try to read it once you get further and further in because you will have a hard time not laughing.
Julie and Maryse….I loved Blurred Lines way back when I read it. I had it on my favorites list…just floved it.
I very quickly snapped (clicked) up this newy…Good Girl.
I’m at 27% Grace. Looking forward to settling down in about half an hour or so and just reading with no interruptions.
I already love everything about it. Plus, I’m a sucker for those English men. Must have been all those historicals I gobbled up in my teens. Nothing like an English accent to make me swoon. (or in the case of books – the idioms and phrasing)
Can I just say…..as a side note…..Leisa Rayven’s book covers are bloody well gorgeous. Loved the Bad Romeo/ Broken Juliet covers and this new cover is just beautiful.
FLT
“You look absolutely ravishing tonight,” Alan says as he leans in to place a soft kiss on my cheek. ~ Smut by Karina Halle
And I have to say that the first few lines of chapter 1 in Smut…good lord, that is exactly what I have to tell myself when I run. Every time.
ditto Amy – for my FLT, not the running. :-/
Yiiipppppeeeeee!!!
*Squeals with excitement*
SMUT! SMUT! SMUT!
It’s soooooo funny!
And sexy too!
Yep, same FLT for me too! Just didn’t get to read as much this week as I would have liked to! Amy, I thought of YOU while reading that running part!!!!
Did anyone else think that prologue scene was just awful? I’m still cringing. The descriptions of romance plots and characters is also pretty cringe worthy. But that comes later in the book. I’m at 49% now and ready for something to start happening.
Fabi – Are you talking about when they were brainstorming about what stories to write? I was laughing through that section so much I could hardly breathe. Why did you cringe? They were spot on about stereotypical story lines. Obviously they were exaggerated for comedic affect, but even the very best of them still hit those highlights. How is the story going for you?
Grace, I was cringing because that’s what I read. LOL nothing like a cold dose of reality first thing in the morning.
I’m about halfway through and I definitely like it, although I’m ready for some action or something now. I think the real fun is about to start now with their new joint endeavor.
I’m at about the same point fabi. Ready for something to happen! Honestly, the prologue with the puke had me giggling! Lol!
And, I love her roommate Ana! The “brow phase”….. “looks like two singed caterpillars have laid down on her forehead to die…” hahaha
Yes! and her “date” with the Nigerian? holy crap, I was dying hearing her describe why it was a good date
ok Grace, now I’m laughing —out loud — in public
And the titles of the books… with the whole string of “bad boy stepbrother second chance romance” just like we really see! LOL!
Yes! I was dying this morning reading that.
Hey guys! I am not Smutting either cause I am reading Undecided and LOVING it!! So good!! Maryse it does have an Elle Kennedy feel to it, which I appreciate so much!
YAY Anne!!!!!!!
I KNOW IT! 😀
I’m the only one not reading Undecided Smut, huh?
FLT:
Alex set her hands down on the bar, resisting the urge to adjust the wig on her head.
Blood Magic by Ella Summers
Yeah, first line and title don’t sound very clever, but consider this is the fifth book in the series I’ve read in a row. It is funny, makes me smile, and really has a different, fun world.
Okay you guys… what other books have you read that have that Elle Kennedy feel. I’m looking for more, and then I will make a list. 🙂
The prologue of Smut made me giggle, and snort. The whole Barry Manilow thing – lol. But I’m at 54% now and *ducks for cover* I’m getting a bit sick of it. Ouch! Was that a peanut, Grace? There are definitely some funny lines and situations. Yes, Maryse, I laughed too at the “bad boy stepbrother second chance romance” description. So true! Those book promoters know which buttons to push.
But, my fickle attention has drifted away from Smut and I’ve started Sterling – the first mageri book. I know it’s an oldie many of you have probably read, but I never have.
FLT
Dying isn’t the hardest thing you’ll ever do – living is.
Sterling, Dannika Dark.
Grace, I promise I will go back and finish Smut! You love it so much and our book tastes often seem to be similar. I think I’m just in my typical mid-book doldrums. Halle even mentions that, when her characters are analysing the writing process, that the middle of books often flag. So, it seems I’m not the only one that suffers from this syndrome. 🙂
After a good dose of pnr I will pop back in to Smut and give it another go.
For me, Kristen Callahan’s The Hook-up and The Friend Zone have some of that Elle Kennedy feel. College students, sports stars, funny, sweet, hot.
Also Cara Cormack’s Rusk University books e.g. All Lined Up.
And Kate Willoughby’s In The Zone books e.g. On The Surface. Not college students, but fresh characters and nice stories.
I like Elle Kennedy and would love to hear other suggestions, too.
Excellent suggestions!!! Thank you Jan130. I’m adding these to the list. 😀
Sherlock.
LOL bev. You kill me with your subtlety. 😛
Jan says *?* to Bev’s enigmatic and brief visit.
Bev’a been MIA and just says “sherlock” out of nowhere!!!! LMAO!!!!
Maryse, I would say the Ivy Years series by Sarina Bowen, especially the first book, The Year We Fell Down.
Bev – SNORT!!! “Sherlock.” You crack me up!
FLT: “I can’t make words.” – the Bird and the Stone.
Totally digging this book! Has that Throne of Glass kind of feel. Like fantasy for younger people maybe? Not heavy fantasy. Love it!!
For the record, I am not throwing any peanuts. Everyone else can decide they hated Smut, and I will still be crowing about it being brilliant. I’m not taking it personally at all if anyone dislikes it. Jan, no judgment on taking a break, but I sincerely hope you go back because if their relationship hasn’t really started up there is a lot more to come. Fabi – I think a great big part of why I thought it was so hysterical was because I WAS laughing at myself. I do often eat up everything they joke about, However, if you pay attention, this story actually gives you everything they mock. Hence Brilliant! Finally, Bev was on here soap boxing recently about what we read not being smut, and I feel like that is truly the underlying moral of this book. Karina does an excellent job of getting this message across. Yes, some of the tropes are very formulaic. Yes, we fall for it anyway, but it’s because we enjoy it! There is nothing wrong with that! If it makes us happy, then we can read it proudly with our heads held up high! It would not sell like crazy if we were alone in our enjoyment of it. How telling is it that Blake’s Father is a book snob whose bookstore refuses to carry any Romance, absolutely no Erotica and barely carries Fantasty and his book store is FAILING. Frankly, I’m wondering if Bev wrote this book! She totally could have!
Ooh. Kristen Ashley’s Midnight Soul has gone up for pre-order on amazon. (For August). Fantasyland series Book 5. I like the blurb.
Yep, Grace. There are definitely moments in Smut where we laugh because it cuts uncomfortably(?) close to the bone about what we love to read. And yeah, there are books snobs out there like the bookstore guy in Smut. But we don’t care. We love what we love. I proudly love Motorcycle Man and These Old Shades and Anna Karenina.
Amen Jan. Amen!
Thanks for the notice in the pre-order. I just one clicked mine! I can’t wait. Kristen Ashley is the queen of my smutty romance loving heart!
I’ve just blown through a couple free, very formula following CR’s that fell really flat for me so I’m rebooting with a Historical Paranormal just to shake it up. I’m coming back to Juliana Keyes Going The Distance, then I think take another paranormal sojourn unless I’m swayed by someone on here.
I agree with Jan’s list of Elle Kennedy feels. I second her. The ones I’ve read seem to qualify. Callahan and Cormack really do seem to fit that.
“this story actually gives you everything they mock”. Exactly Grace. It’s satire at its finest. Therefore, all my cringing. 😉
I’m old enough to remember when reading romance was simply “not done” (or not admitted) in polite company. One of my high school friend’s Mom use to read historical romance and pass those books on to me. (In plain brown bags of course). Ha! Women’s lib at its finest. I’m not sure some of you younger ladies know what a treat it is to be able to find each other and congregate on the Internet like we do nowadays. *lays hand in the middle of group* Bring it for a “hooyah” ladies.
—now back to your regularly scheduled smutty read (sorry Bev)
Maryse all the NA I’ve read like Elle Kennedy I’ve found right here on your lists, so I don’t have anything new for you. I can’t help but think of all the older ones that started it all – ahem – Travis
Fabi. I’m of the more mature variety too 😉 and share similar memories. Tho’ not the brown paper bags lol. I remember as a teen being secretly surprised and delighted to see my fortyish ‘maiden’ aunt (as they used to be called!) was reading the same book as me. There was a copy of Georgette Heyer’s A Civil Contract under her chair with a book mark in it. I was too shy to say anything to her about it, altho’ she would probably have been thrilled. I was about 14, and I’ve never forgotten that ‘aha’ moment.
So, *hooyah* for romance book blogs, and for this one in particular, Maryse! We love you. *grugs* (groups hugs, remember?)
*opens arms wide* squeezy grugs
Ditto on the FLT-Smut. Loving the poking fun of what Karina Halle essentially writes. So many laugh out loud moments- Fluffy, makeup by her roommate Ana, the suggested storylines, the pen names, the emails with their innuendo email names; but I agree Blake & Amanda need a kick in the a$$.
How far along are you Cheryl?
Alright, I started to make a list, but cut a lot of them off. I think what makes The Deal so awesome is it feels real and the humor and romance are there. Top that off with stardom issues, well, I REALLY have to go through my Goodreads list better.
Very Bad Things by Ilsa Madden-Mills
Hustle by Ashley Claudy
Cutters vs Jocks by Elizabeth Marx
Hooked on the Game by CM Owens
YAY Tessa!! Okay I made the official list, and I’m going to add these on there. 😀
OMG- when Amanda is reading the “sample” book to to get a feel for the flow and prose- “the dude is a crude alpha with a cock the size of a Subway sandwich, but hey, no one wants to read about pencil dicks either.” Smut.
Yep, don’t think I’ve ever read a book that the dude had a pencil dick; they’re always generously endowed. :>
Fabi I’m at 47%.
Awesome. The story is such a clever idea by Ms. Halle.
Do you see how I’m failing? *sigh*
But, I have to say that I do not talk about my love for romance, we’ll except online, lol.
The few times I remember the comments of “sex book” or look of disdain. I love Jane Eyre, and I was checking it out of the library, again, and some one asked about it. Before I could answer another was all, Oh, it’s a romance. In that voice. These happened when I was a very insecure teen, so you know stopped talking about it. Most of my people do not read that much. And I’ll speak to what they read. Cause I fo read other genres.
In regards to the “smut” label it’s not that I think we should be proud to read smut, though go for it, but that we don’t read smut. I do not think it is a factual label for most romance books. I’ve only read a couple of KH books but do not consider them smut. At all. It’s like saying Jane Eyre is just a romance – in that voice. It reduces it, takes out all the complexity.
The Helena Hunting Pucked series is similar. Y’all have already mentioned that one right?
I did say you were going to have to exercise some patience along the way. There is a serious buildup in Smut and if it has you frustrated then it’s working. Karina isn’t teasing with the title completely. The conversations can be very crude at times, but then that has to why Blake is English! Everyone knows a crude sentence with an accent isn’t quite as crude and much sexier! Just trust her. When they get started it is totally hot and worth the wait. No pencils to be found! Ha Ha Ha! Ahh, Fluffy. What a memory maker!
Bev! You are not failing! It isn’t really Smut! The use of the word is mostly a device to call out the stereotype. I didn’t express myself well enough! I think it is clear that full on Erotica is about the sex, but since this type is for women there has to more to it then that because we wouldn’t like it otherwise. Smut isn’t proudly wearing the title so much as saying you call it that if you will, but you can only do that if you are ignorant to what good romance is really about. It is every bit as powerful as any other genre and capable of being compelling, moving and life changing. It’s not to be looked down on.
Seriously Bev – You could have written this book. Are you sure you didn’t?
Lol. I meant failing in my challenge.
And yes I’m sure I didn’t, but I wouldn’t mind looking like KH.
And yes, 100x to your last post.
Oh! Back to heartily laughing at her self. Please continue….
And….I meant to add my hooyah back there too.
Hooyah! To us!
Hooyah! To Maryse and this blog!
And
Boo! To Judgy A$$ jerk wads!
Bev, there’s a mention about Sherlock and Benedict Cumberbatch in Smut!
OMG the tarantula scene was priceless!!!!!!!! 😛
LOL He can’t stop screaming… naked. I can see it now!
“Now I’m holding the magazine at eye level and Fluffy is sitting on it and I’m screaming silently, mouth open and everything. A living nightmare.”
OMG HILARIOUS!!!
Yeh, I don’t regard the romances I read as ‘smut’, either. Yeah, I like books with sexual scenes in them, and I usually enjoy reading those scenes. But really, it’s all about the characters and their relationships, and the storyline. If the book’s just about sex, or the sex scenes go on and on (ahem, so to speak) I get bored pretty quickly and start flipping through or DNF.
I read to vicariously enjoy the warmth and connection and tenderness between likeable people, with integrity. To feel the satisfaction when they resolve their problems and misunderstandings.
To you writers out there, I say, that’s what it’s all about for me. Make me believe in and care for your characters, and I’m yours.
Cheryl, that’s awesome.
It’s a sign. ……I hope it was a positive mention.
Bev, it was a positive mention. And you should totally read this book in spite of the title.
BRs grrr her parents huh? That dinner made me so mad. Meant to comment on that earlier and just remembered.
Ooh. Just saw on Maryse’s FB another goodie is coming out in July. Moonshot, a newie by Alessandra Torre. Not up for preorder on amazon yet. I loved her Hollywood Dirt and Blindfolded Innocence. Hope this one is as good. The blurb and cover look great. Lots of new possible favs coming up later in the year. *super happy cheesy grin*
Jan130 I LOVE Alessandra Torre!!!! Very excited for this one!
I AM SOOOO EXCITED! You all are finally getting to all the bestest parts!!! Tra La La La La! I’m so happy right now!
My husband and I once spent six months living in a place where a “Fluffy” came in and out as he pleased. One night my hubby awoke to it moving across my body while I slept. I was under a sheet, but sleeping oblivious to it being on me. He waited 8 (EIGHT!) years to tell me that story! I asked him what he did about it. He said he let him go wherever he was headed!!! True story. I’m still married to him, but it was touch and go for a bit after that. Just kidding. His argument was that absolutely no good would have come from me knowing about it when there was nothing we could do about it. Frustrated Sigh. My hero!
Yeah… I raised a few baby fluffies to full-grown size, once – about 5 babies – (if I recall correctly, they were Mexican pink toe tarantulas – also considered docile, but possibly mine were rose-hairs also like “book-Fluffy”). I did a great job making ’em big (and then gave them back to their owner once full grown). But I never touched them. HECK no.
And one time, when I was cleaning out their aquariums, they were all easy going but one. All of ’em would calmly saunter into their new temporary bins with a little butt-push with a full sheet of paper.
But there was one (which I aptly named “Spazz” after this incident) that panicked and starting spinning around and running as fast as he could up and down the aqaurium walls, right into the bin, and then *squirreled* right out of the bin and onto the floor where he proceeded to move just as quickly, and I started SCREAMING!!!
“OMG GET IT!!! GET IT!!!!!! We have a full-size tarantula loose in the house.CATCH IT!!!!!!!”
So I am EXTREMELY familiar with that scene (which is why I laughed extra hard). That whole OMG THAT THING IS LOOSE IN MY HOUSE heart-pounding, adrenaline racing feeling is SO REAL.
P.S. And that was just HIS personality. He acted like that each and every single time, so precautions were put in place when it was his turn. NO MORE LOOSE TARANTULAS!!!
Ok! One last crazy long post. My apologies, except I’m doing it anyway.
So my husband and I have been having a blast with Smut and all the jokes it has sparked between us. I read him huge portions of the book to which he snickered, giggled and guffawed!
Today he came up with his own story suggestion. His title:
Hard Help Is Good To Find.
LOL! (Snort!) Super sexy handy man Dirk Hammer finds himself out of work and available to devote all his time and
attention to the only job he has going. Hubby presents this story proudly!
So then laughing like a hyena,
I said, “Who is the heroine?”
And he said, “Does it matter?”
So I said, “Of course it does!”
So I suggest Isabella Goodwin, recently divorced, who is stuck starting over in a money pit she inherited. Dirk, angry because Izzy’s failed marriage cost him
the construction work he was counting on decides to insist on helping her out. It’s not like she can live with clogged pipes! Obviously she can’t pay him as much as he would have made so she has to give him room and board offsetting his expenses to seal the deal. She also has to actually help him get the work done, naturally. (Snicker!) Dirk, of course gives new meaning to being handy.
Silence from my husband. I think I scared him, but I’ve already read a couple versions of this book. Not that he knows that. Regardless, he rallied and promised that when he gets home he’d grab his hammer and help me nail down the details. Ha Ha Ha!!!
Awwww! He learned sexy trickery from Blake! Go me!
AND….a big sloppy “Thank You” to KH and Smut! Bow Chicka Bow Wow…LOL!
Bev – Blake considers Benedict Cumberbatch his nemesis! Come on, admit it, you at least secretly co-authored this book insisting on not being given credit? Made short, but succinct suggestions? She channeled you somehow?
FABI – I hate her parents! From start to finish! Grrrr is right!
Grace, you and your husband crack me up. He’s such a good sport. You guys may end up writing one of these yourselves. — wait — maybe you have 😮 — authors in hiding
Fabi – After today’s conversation he thinks we totally can, but I’ve distracted him with…research. Ahem. Anyway!
I’m not in hiding nor am I anything but a book lover. I can’t express how much fun Smut has brought into my life. What I posted is just a glimpse of the hilarious conversations we’ve had. I’ve already mentioned on here that he likes to talk trash about some of my book covers so you can imagine how Blake’s comments about the men with teenie tiny steroid bollocks made him laugh. I guess it’s fed my insane love for this book like no other. We are both 46, have been married for 18 years, but have known each other since we were 14 years old. He’s my very own angsty love story with a HEA. I’m very content with that, but books truly enrich our marriage! As my husband likes to say “He is always ready and willing to take one for the book.”
Happy reading to all!
Awwwww I LOVE that story Grace!!!
LOL Grace!
Grace, I love it! Let us know when your book comes out….lol!
Oh hell no, Maryse. After reading The Exorcist, I don’t like anything that spins…
No Freaking Way Maryse!
In six months of living there, I was aware that horrible beast was in the room with me one time. It crawled around the room while I kept my feet up, then I went right on pretending it chose to go outside. The second time I was in it’s path or as I consider it, I was it’s victim. Thankfully, I was blissfully unaware that night. I cannot imagine what you described! It freaks me out just thinking about it! No. Just No!
Oh! And as Kevin would point out in his geeky glory, “It’s a terrarium.” Ha Ha Ha Ha!
YES Grace!!
That’s exactly right. I had 5 little Terrariums (one in each, or else they’d kill each other). Yikes!!!
Kevin is a little heartbreaking to me. Anyone else feel that?
Yes Fabi! Such a sweet boy, but it all works out for him in the end. Maybe he’ll grow up and KH can give his story from geek to glory.
Yes Fabi, poor Kev…heartbreaking. did you finish yet? I’m only at 65%. I have to admit I struggled a little like Jan130 did….but sticking with it because the premise is so good!
Jean, I’m at 78%. Yes, I did too. Especially pushing into the 50% mark.
Yikes! So sorry Fabi! I should not have assumed you knew that. I didn’t realize you are only at 78%. I feel awful. Sorry. 🙁
lol no problem Grace
Grace, at 83%, convo between Heath and Blake as they’re walking home *thud thud* goes my heart. This book just went up a star for me. That conversation was awesomesauce
Bev, did we mention Blake has a British accent a la Sherlock??
Maryse, I’m going to ask the obvious question, WHY were you raising tarantula’s??
Cheryl… I had some friends that raised them, and they had a bunch just hatch (and I was always fascinated by the fact that they bred and RAISED spiders), so one day they asked me if I wanted to take a few to raise for them? Just for the experience.
HECK YES!!! LOL I’m always willing to try new things. 😉
I had them for about a year… maybe a bit less, but once they were fully grown, all fat and happy, I gave them back to my friends.
I’m at 60% and for the love of god would these two just act out a “scene” in their book to completion!!!
Cheryl – LOL! Wait for it…..
You will NOT be disappointed!
Fabi – Oh My Gosh! Right??? There is so much greatness in this book. Like endless quoteable material. That conversation was epic. I lost it when Blake was singing the song afterward because I was doing it in my head!
Cheryl – I know! I felt the same way. Just please let’s get rolling. lol
Definitely Grace. It has some great parts. It could use a little more copy editing (sorry, pet peeve of mine) and there’s a slow part or two but I’m standing by the idea behind the plot. It’s brilliant.
Cheryl – Beware Treebeard! Muahahahaha!
I can’t disagree with the copy editing issues, but when I’m enjoying myself that much I am way more forgiving. I’m also much more masochistic then the rest of you because I endured the buildup much more patiently then many of you. I kind of like that driving me crazy feeling.
P.S. I can’t sleep!!!!
Cheryl – Some encouragement…
“Jesus O’Malley. I feel like I’ve been hit by a giant sex bus.”
Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha!
That was Amanda at 65%
Mexican pink toe tarantulas??????? You raised them????? WTAH Maryse? I am shocked! They’re SPIDERS!!!!!! Well, at least you never touched them.
I’m shaking right now.
LOL!!!!!! Yep! I get a kick out of pink things. Even pink toed, or rose-hair tarantulas. 😉
https://bookriot.com/2016/05/20/10-gorgeous-outdoor-reading-nooks/
Had to share. Let’s get hamster balls.
LOL Maryse. Yep, I love pink too.
But…. they’re SPIDERS :-0
Grace, thanks for sharing your stories. They make me smile. I love that your husband is sharing the fun of your reading with you. My husband though wonderful, and tolerant of all my crazy reading, would probably just grunt and turn over if I read some of Smut to him. But I still wuv him …. sigh ….. 🙂
Love the reading nooks, Bev. I’m going for the ‘full outdoor library’. Oh yeah.
Pink toe tarantulas.
Um…I can’t even…
*snort*
*covers mouth*
😐
*snorrrrrrrrrt!* My girly-girl friend raised tarantulas with pink toes! LOL!!!
I did!!!!! 😀 But but but!! They had PINK toes!!
LOL!! I’m still trying to picture a bunch of tarantulas amongst your girly stuff and Cabbage Patch dolls. 😛
Amy.
And that is EXACTLY where my Tarantulas were. In my bedroom, amongst all my frills and twinkly lights, and Cabbage Patch kids, and pink things.
My scary experience with Satan’s hamster was not cute in any way. It was NOT pink! It was black and ugly and huge! Not even Bev’s glitter pen could make the one crawling over me appealing in any way. That is a serious love for pink things woman! Oh! It gives me heebie jeebies just thinking about them. “Or else they would KILL each other.” ????Adorable. Nope. I’m with Jan!
*Spider crawls across the Internet and waves a leg at all the ladies*
https://sp.yimg.com/xj/th?id=OIP.Me38930fbf71bef6ec01face0d8ab0e93o0&pid=15.1&P=0&w=300&h=300
Oh that one is SO PRETTY Grace!!!!
Ugh! Geez, thanks Grace. Creepiest link eva. I wish I hadn’t clicked on it. Can’t unsee it now. LOL.
Don’t wave your leg at me, creepy internet spider thang!
Jan – Ha Ha! No husband is immune to the grunt and roll! Not a one. LOL! Mine just happens to be a randy opportunist most of the time. He thinks he’s sneaky, but he is always asking what genre I’m reading. He knows which ones get him attention. He’ll often joke before he falls asleep “If ya need me later just hop on!” Maybe try that.
*Blinks innocently*
Yeah, but it’s a PINK tipped leg it’s waving!
Oh and they will do that. Spazz would lift his two front legs in a defensive posture. He was the only one that hated me. *sigh*
It’s pretty creepy, lemme tell you… when they do that. 😉
ROAR!!!
Nooooooooooooooo
He was born a tarantula and found himself with pink toes and surrounded by twinkle lights and dolls. Of course he was pissed.
LOL Bev
Laughing so hard right now! Actual snorting happening because I can’t stop it.
“Of course he was pissed.”
Life as Satan’s hamster wasn’t what he imagined it should be.
The crazy pink girl keeps humiliating him!!!
LOL!!!!!!!!!!!!!! You guys make my day and kill me with laughter at the same time!!!!
😛
HE LOVED IT!
I SAY SO! 😉
OMG Bev…you’re killing me, LOL!!!!
I was still trying to reconcile the image of a tarantula in the middle of Maryse’s uber-girly room, and then I read “of course he was pissed”…I totally just did a painful snort!!!
The real reason why Maryse’s tarantula didn’t like her…
OMG YES!!!!!!!!!
HOW. CUTE. IS. THAT? Why didn’t I try that?
Oh right… ’cause Spazz would have FANGED ME for even trying.
LOL, Amy.
I want to know what sort of weirdo would tie a ribbon on their pet tarantula. And how the heck they made it stand still long enough????? And how did they know it was a girl tarantula? Huh? Huh? Huh? Even worse if it wasn’t……
Oh, the magic of photoshop 😉
Omg, just looking at the pics of Satan’s hamster freaks me out!
The pink bow! I love it! Maryse, I am seeing you in a whole new light!
*giggle* 😛