Sunday, June 30, 2019

Stacking OUR Shelves ~ 6/30/19


Stacking the Shelves is hosted by Tynga's Reviews.  Make sure to checkout her post with links to all the other participates.

Click covers for Goodreads links


For Review...






Thanks go to...

Avon Books
Berkley
Entangled




For Review...


Someone to Honor (Westcott, #6)Devoted to Love (Devoted Lovers, #2)


From ALA...


A Heart So Fierce and Broken (Cursebreakers, #2)The Burning Shadow (Origin, #2)Ninth House

Throw Like a GirlThe WivesThe Beautiful (The Beautiful, #1)



Thanks go to...


Berkley
Bloomsbury
Tor Teen
Flatiron Books
Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
Graydon House
G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers



Bought...


Sorcery of Thorns


That's what we added to our shelves this week! What do you think? What did you add to your stacks? Leave us a comment and link us up!


Saturday, June 29, 2019

Well Suited by Staci Hart ~ Review

Well Suited (Red Lipstick Coalition, #4)Source: KindleUnlimited.

Well Suited (Red Lipstick Coalition #4) by Staci Hart


Chemistry is my love language.

I’ve always been able to separate feelings from chemosignals. A shot of dopamine, a dash of serotonin, and a sprinkle of oxytocin—and bam. You’re in love.

And when egg meets sperm, you’re pregnant.

I couldn’t even be surprised as I stared down at the little blue plus sign, because I knew exactly when and how, and with whom it happened.

When: approximately five weeks ago.
Who: one night stand.
How: prophylactic malfunction.

The upside? I don’t have to go looking for a suitable mate.

Genetically, he’s the cream of the crop. His musculature is a study in symmetry and strength, his height imposing and impressive. He is a man who thrives on control and command, a man who survives on intelligence and resourcefulness. A perfect male specimen.

And the whole package is wrapped up in a flawlessly tailored suit.

I’m having this baby, and he insists we’re well-suited to have it together. And what’s worse? He wants more, in the way of love and marriage.

But love isn’t real. It’s just a product of chemistry.

And if he changes my mind about that, we’re both in trouble.




I've been seeing people talk about how great Staci Hart's books are for a while. So naturally I've been meaning to pick one up but was too intimidated by hype to follow through. But then I was scrolling through KindleUnlimited and stumbled upon Well Suited...and it actually sounded like my kind of thing that I was exactly in the mood for. So I did the thing--I downloaded it and gave it a try. And while it wasn't a new favorite, it was good!

The best thing about this book for me was the tropes. Friends to lovers and surprise pregnancy, both of which done well. They were fun and entertaining and complemented Kate and Theo's dynamic in a way that kept me caring about the book even when I knew it wasn't going to be a fav.

I really liked Theo and Kate. Theo is a kind, understanding guy with top notch patience. Really, his patience was perfect. And of course that was exactly what Kate needed. I liked Kate too. She was such a smart, interesting character. And together, Theo and Kate made the perfect pair--they (and by they I mean Kate) just needed time to see and accept it.

But while there isn't much I can pinpoint and say I did not like about Well Suited, you may notice I'm not exactly sitting here raving either. For me this was one of those books that was good and I liked it, but it was kind of forgettable. I'm not going to be rushing to re-read it, nor am I really itching to pick up other books in this series. Not to say that I won't, but this particular book didn't really leave a prominent mark on my mind.

Overall, Well Suited was a good book full of tropes that were my cup of tea. And though I liked it, it ended up being a forgettable read. I guess this one just didn't mesh as well with me as it could have.


3 stars - Great tropes & cute romance, but not a fav for me.


Friday, June 28, 2019

Kingdom of Exiles by Maxym M. Martineau ~ Excerpt & Giveaway



Kingdom of Exiles
By Maxym M. Martineau
Publication Date: June 25, 2019

Assassin’s Creed meets Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them in this gripping, epic fantasy romance trilogy.

My heart wasn’t part of the deal when I bargained for my life,
But assassins so rarely keep their word.

Exiled Charmer Leena Edenfrell is running out of time. Empty pockets forced her to sell her beloved magical beasts—an offense punishable by death—and now there’s a price on her head. With the realm’s most talented murderer-for-hire nipping at her heels, Leena makes Noc an offer he can’t refuse: powerful mythical creatures in exchange for her life.

Plagued by a curse that kills everyone he loves, Noc agrees to Leena’s terms in hopes of finding a cure. Never mind that the dark magic binding the assassin’s oath will eventually force him to choose between Leena’s continued survival…and his own.



The Beast Charmer Series:
Kingdom of Exiles (available June 25th, 2019)
The Frozen Prince (coming early 2020)
The Shattered Crown (coming late 2020)

Praise for Kingdom of Exiles

A Bookish Staff Read Pick


 “Impressive debut…Martineau’s intricate world-building melds traditional high fantasy with a hint of Victorian sensibility, then elevates it with endearing characters and a deliciously complex story that will leave readers anxiously awaiting the second book.” D—Publishers Weekly, STARRED review and Best Book of Summer 2019

“A powerful new voice in fantasy romance, Martineau has crafted a stunning story full of razor-sharp intrigue, delicious characters, and a love story you never want to end. Keep an eye on Maxym M. Martineau. If I'm not mistaken, we have a bona fide genius in our midst.” —Darynda Jones, New York Times bestselling author

“Maxym Martineau weaves an irresistible blend of adventure, magic, and romance. A unique world full of danger and intrigue and a delightful ensemble of characters will leave fans of fantasy romance breathlessly awaiting more from this author. Prepare to be charmed!” —Amanda Bouchet, USA Today Bestselling Author

Maxym M. Martineau is an article and social media writer by day and a fantasy romance author by night. She earned her bachelor’s degree in English Literature from Arizona State University, and lives with her husband and fur babies in Arizona. Connect with her at MaxymMartineau.com or through Twitter and Instagram @maxymmckay.

GIVEAWAY 

a Rafflecopter giveaway


This giveaway is sponsored by the publisher.  Stuck In Books is not responsible for selecting the winner or delivering the prize. 

EXCERPT – Beast Taming

Leena

Outstretched wings coated in vibrant teals and emeralds went taut, and [the Myad] tilted his nose upward to sniff the air. Built like an oversize black panther, the lithe jungle beast exhaled, shaking his mane from left to right. The peacock streak running the length of his spine and tail shimmered in the sun. A plume of feathers exploded around his head, standing tall between his ears. Gold casings masked his ankles and heels, protecting the weak points of his legs.
I’d never seen anything so beautiful. Powerful. I took a small step forward. The brush crunched beneath my feet, and the Myad skewered me with his blazing gold gaze. Thin tendrils of blue light streamed from his eyes.
“Grundy.”
Without further prompting, plates shifted along Grundy’s body, and two fat arms pushed outward. Once his soft hooves met the earth, a shallow divot appeared in a circle around the men. As one, they gasped, crashing to the ground under Grundy’s invisible weight. Calem sputtered, lungs working overtime to keep oxygen flowing through his body. Face flat against the earth, Oz groaned into the dirt. Muscles ticked along his back as he fought against the weight to no avail. Kost cursed and dug his fingers into the ground.
Noc alone managed to remain on his knees, palms pressed flat to the earth. Fissures of pressure cracked around his fingertips. Slate eyes lanced with frustration speared my heart, and a low snarl broke free from his lips.
Such power. I was wrong. The Myad wasn’t the most beautiful thing I’d ever seen. Noc would always win that contest.
A rumbling growl sounded from deep in the Myad’s belly, and heavy paws thudded against the banks of the pond as he stalked toward me. Fifteen minutes, and Grundy’s gravity manipulation would fade. I mouthed an apology to Noc before turning to the beast. Palms outward, I slowed to a stop a few feet in front of the creature. No weapons. No beasts. No threat. A cool sweat misted above my lips. To be in front of something so powerful…
The Myad’s tail flicked from left to right. Pulling back his muzzle to reveal a row of elongated teeth, he growled. I willed my breath to remain steady. Blue wisps began to stream from the gold plates in his legs. He’d take flight or pounce if I wasn’t careful.
Kicking on the charm, I knelt before him. Rosewood light spilled outward, but he didn’t blink. My heart traded places with my throat, and I swallowed twice before exhaling deeply.
Step one: Blood of the murderer. With my eyes locked on his, I extracted the vial from my breast pocket. Another growl simmered in the back of his throat, and I paused.
Easy now. My heart thundered in my ears. I popped the stopper off and poured Noc’s blood into my cupped hand. The Myad’s nose twitched, and he lowered his head to sniff the substance. Slowly, his scratchy tongue grazed my skin. Sheer power thrummed from his touch. I’m sure he tasted the raw flavor of Noc’s magic in the blood. The icy heat of it threatened to sear my skin, and the scent of burnt honey and hot metal tainted the air.
Once the beast licked my hand dry, he sat back on his haunches and studied me, the corded muscles of his legs rippling beneath black fur.
Step two: A token of loyalty. Proof that, if the taming were a success, I was as much his as he was mine. That we would never abandon each other. With bloody, shaking fingers, I took my opal ring off my hand.
“Your mother left this for you.” My aunt had held out a tiny box with silver clasps. My eager fingers had wrenched it open. There, lying in a bed of violet silk, was the rose-gold ring my father had given to my mother as a promise of his love. The one I now wore at all times.
This ring was my last tie to Hireath. My last tie to a memory that I cherished above all else. My parents had died trying to tame a beast beyond their capabilities. It seemed fitting that, if this didn’t work, I’d go out the same way.
Hot tears stung the corners of my eyes, and I bowed to the Myad, extending my palm toward him. Blue tendrils of vapor streamed from his eyes and looped through the ring, lifting it to the space before him. A crown of pure gold burst through his black fur. His feathered mane shot outward, and the tendrils carried the ring to the center of the headpiece. The gold rippled and molded, allowing for the jewelry to become part of his plumage.
Fighting back cries of joy, I tossed a quick glance over my shoulder to steal one more look at Noc. Eyes wide and jaw tight, he strained against Grundy’s pressure. Muscles bulged along his neck, and his fingers trembled. The detachment he’d wielded earlier was gone, and there was nothing but concern shining in his intense stare.
My heart twisted. Too bad it took me putting my life in danger for him to look at me like that.
Turning back to the Myad, I slowly undid the belt from my breeches. The Myad tilted his head, eyeing the black leather contraption. A low warning growl rumbled at the back of his throat.
It’s not a weapon. I promise. Folding my belt, I shoved it into my mouth between my teeth. Not a single sound. I breathed deeply and focused on the beast realm. My power flooded outward, pulsating to the cadence of my heart. The Myad stood before crouching low against the ground. Tension gathered in all his muscles, and he eyed my left shoulder. Screwing my eyes shut, I clenched down on my belt.
I heard the kick-up of dirt as he lunged. The back of my head smacked against the ground, forcing my eyes open, and a blinding heat surged from my shoulder as his fangs sank easily into flesh. The world slipped out from beneath me as pain blurred the lines of the trees and the sky, blending colors in ways that shouldn’t have been possible.


***
Excerpted from Kingdom of Exiles by Maxym M. Martineau. © 2019 by Maxym M. Martineau. Used with permission of the publisher, Sourcebooks Casablanca, an imprint of Sourcebooks, Inc. All rights reserved.



Darkest Highlander by Donna Grant ~ Review



In the acclaimed Dark Sword series, the darkest, fiercest warriors of Scottish legend finally meet their match—in the brave, fiery hearts of the women they cherish…

For years, Broc has watched over her, protected her—and hidden his love for her. But when his beautiful Sonya, finds herself in a hopeless situation, the Highlander flies to her side to save her. Unfortunately, before the Druidess can thank him, Broc is captured by his enemy and destined for eternal pain…

Sonya vows to help her noble warrior, though he is imprisoned in a mountain of pure evil—bound in chains of the darkest magic. With Sonya’s own magic fading, she must summon the greatest power of all to save the man she loves. But even if these two hearts are united, will they be strong enough to defeat the heart of darkness? Or will their undying love doom them for all eternity…?



The last book in the historical series Dark Sword, I was thinking this book would wrap up the series plot a lot.  I knew there was a spin off series that jumps to modern times.  Frankly, I wanted the evil Deirdre to meet her end in this book.  Alas, such was not the case.  And I really didn't expect for the series to move to modern times in quite the way that it did.  Very interesting.

This book is Broc's story.  Broc is such an fascinating character.  As a warrior, he is powerful.  He can fly and he can find anyone at any time.  Deirdre captured him and released his God many years ago with others.  He agreed to stay and spy.  I first met him in Deirdre's service.  I admit to being unsure if he was good or evil.  Even when he does some things that help those warriors fighting Deirdre, I wasn't sure.  And I admit to still not trusting him but after I got to know him better in this book, I found I loved him.  What an interesting warrior Broc turns out to be.

Sonya has always been around.  Her healing magic has helped from the beginning.  But she defines herself based on that healing magic.  As she loses that power, she has to decide who she actually is and what's important to her.  She doesn't think she has value to those in the castle without that magic.  So she leaves.

A great part of this story takes place away from the castle.  Both characters have a lot of growth as they figure things out between themselves.  As a result, this book feels more like a stand alone then the others have.  It still hangs on the series plot and has the same great characters but it has a different feel.  That may partly be the fact that it ends the historical part of this series.

Broc's curse and Sonya's lack of faith in herself drive this story.  I enjoyed how they both came to terms with that.   I enjoyed how it plays out both away from the castle and with old friends.  I enjoyed the world where these warriors defend the droids and fight the evil.

It wasn't really a series ending book though.  It was just a bridge between the historical series and the modern day one.  The series plot isn't resolved and all the characters are still in play.  It's a unique way of doing things.  I wonder why the author decided to move things 400 years into the future?  I'm happy to read on in this modern version of a world I very much enjoy.

This world continues to intrigue me and make me happy to keep turning the pages.




                                 

Thursday, June 27, 2019

Lies by Kylie Scott ~ Cover Reveal

Lies - CR banner.jpg

Lies, a fast paced and sexy standalone filled with the perfect blend of heat and humor from New York Times bestselling author Kylie Scott, is coming July 21st and we have the sexy cover!

Lies FOR WEB.jpg

Betty Dawsey knows that breaking things off with Thom Lange is for the best. He’s nice, but boring, and their relationship has lost its spark. But steady and predictable Thom, suddenly doesn’t seem so steady and predictable when their condo explodes and she’s kidnapped by a couple of crazies claiming that Thom isn’t who he says he is.

Thom is having a hellish week. Not only is he hunting a double agent, but his fiancé dumped him, and thanks to his undercover life, she’s been kidnapped.

Turns out Thom is Operative Thom and he’s got more than a few secrets to share with Betty if he’s going to keep her alive. With both their lives on the line, their lackluster connection is suddenly replaced by an intense one. But in his line of work, feelings aren’t wanted or desired. Because feelings can be a lethal distraction.

Lies - PO.jpg

Pre-order your copy today!
Amazon Worldwide: http://mybook.to/LiesKS
Add to GoodReads: http://bit.ly/31cAz3h
Cover Designed by Hang Le
Photographer: Brian Kaminski
Model: Terry Dormer

About Kylie Scott

Kylie is a New York Times and USA Today best-selling author. She was voted Australian Romance Writer of the year, 2013, 2014 & 2018, by the Australian Romance Writer’s Association and her books have been translated into eleven different languages. She is a long time fan of romance, rock music, and B-grade horror films. Based in Queensland, Australia with her two children and husband, she reads, writes and never dithers around on the internet.

KylieScott.jpg

Connect with Kylie Scott

Book+Main Bites: http://bit.ly/2ETz5RQ

Swoon Thursday ~ 6/27/19


Who doesn't LOVE a good swoon?!  We love them for sure!  Check out our swoon below and then add to the fun.

Post anything that made you swoon, past or present read.  Include the cover, blurb and links.  Please no spoilers.



Debut author Sarah Smith nails this fun and sexy multicultural romance where two office foes hammer out their differences to build a love that will last...

Emmie Echavarre is a professional faker. She has to be to survive as one of the few female employees at Nuts & Bolts, a power tool company staffed predominantly by gruff, burly men. From nine to five, Monday through Friday, she's tough as nails--the complete opposite of her easy-going real self.

One thing she doesn't have to fake? Her disdain for coworker Tate Rasmussen. Tate has been hostile to her since the day they met. Emmie's friendly greetings and repeated attempts to get to know him failed to garner anything more than scowls and terse one-word answers. Too bad she can't stop staring at his Thor-like biceps...

When Emmie and Tate are forced to work together on a charity construction project, things get...heated. Emmie's beginning to see that beneath Tate's chiseled exterior lies a soft heart, but it will take more than a few kind words to erase the past and convince her that what they have is real.


Swoon...


When I feel his tongue run lightly against my bottom lip, my body tenses and my brain finally catches up.  Holy hell, Tate is kissing me.  An alarm bell is going off in my head, alerting me to the lunacy in this moment.  I immediately smash it.  Yes, it's crazy, but I can't deny how divine it feels. (Kindle location 1024)

I so love when haters become lovers.  Hehe.





Stroke The Flame (Her Elemental Dragons, #1)Four sexy dragon shifters. A huntress with a dark past. A bond that could save the world.

I’ve spent my entire life running from my past and staying out of trouble. That’s how I’ve kept alive ever since my parents were killed by the Black Dragon, who’s ruled the world under her oppressive talons for as long as anyone can remember.

But it’s hard to keep a low profile when four handsome strangers turn up in your village claiming you’re destined to save the world. According to them, they’ve been chosen by the gods to become elemental dragons—and I’m their mate.

Which means one day I’ll be the most powerful dragon of all, able to control all four elements. Assuming I can unlock my powers first…by getting intimate with each of my sexy mates.

Auric, the clever prince. Jasin, the cocky soldier. Slade, the protective blacksmith. Reven, the mysterious assassin. And me. We’re the only ones who can bring balance to the world and overthrow the Black Dragon—if she doesn’t tear us to shreds first.

STROKE THE FLAME is the first book in a new steamy reverse harem fantasy series.


Teaser...


"I know you think none of us want to be here, but I do. Everything about this feels right." He lowered his head, his fingers tracing my lips. "Including this." 
With one hand on my jaw he pressed his mouth to mine, while his other hand slid to my lower back to pull me against him.

Super enjoying this reverse harem with magic and dragons and some sweet slow burns!


That's our swoon this week! What about you? Leave us a comment & a link.

Wednesday, June 26, 2019

Kingdom of Exiles by Maxym M. Martinequ ~ Beast Charmer Quiz & Giveaway



There are a plethora of beasts with fantastic powers and unique personalities in Maxym M. Martineau’s debut Kingdom of Exiles. And while Charmers, the magical beast tamers of this world, can catch ‘em all (teehee), we’re here to find out which one would BEST suit you!

Take the quiz below to find out which beast you would charm!





Stuck In Books is so excited to reveal one of the five beasts you might charm! Introducing this large wingless dragon type…

THE LAHAROCK


Val got the cards as part of the pre-order campaign!



LAHAROCK
Pronunciation: la-ha-rock
Rank: A-Class

Description: Larger than an elephant and built like a wingless dragon, the Laharock is one of the largest beasts in Lendria. It uses its thick claws to traverse the rough volcanic terrain of its preferred habitat and is surprisingly nimble. The bone mane around its crown acts as an extra layer of protection for the head, and large, pupil-less white eyes glow with the intensity of fire. Red scales rimmed in gold cover the Laharock’s spine, neck, and legs, making the underbelly the only unprotected portion of its hide. These scales are easily corroded by salt water, which can cause damage to the Laharock. If the Laharock grows up in the wild without threat or human interference, it will develop magic that allows it to summon scalding fires and intense heat. Offspring, on the other hand, are empathic metamorphs, susceptible to an outside trigger that could alter their power. Once the trigger event occurs, the power solidifies.

Taming: Laharock absorb minerals from the volcanoes on which they live. Charmers will need to seek out an active volcano and bring a freshly caught marlin. Once the Laharock spots the Charmer, they should leave the fish on a slab and take several steps back. While the Laharock is eating, the Charmer should insert ear plugs, then summon a Songbloom and use its lullaby to put the Laharock in a stupor. The Charmer must remember to approach slowly and find sure footing along the mountain, because one loose rock or loud noise can break the trance and enrage the Laharock. Regardless, the Laharock will produce an intense aura of heat as a means of protection. Being burned is unavoidable. To avoid severe damage, Charmers should immediately summon a Poi afterward to tend to their skin. Once upon the Laharock, Charmers must place a hand on its snout and initiate charm.


Alternative method (discovered by Leena Edenfrell): Find a Laharock with her recently birthed young. Separate the mother from the child. Carefully approach the offspring and tame it first (no additional requirements outside of standard charm). Be careful not to spook it, as that might cause a flood of unstable powers to occur. Once the offspring is tamed, the mother will call off her pursuit and willingly allow herself to be charmed in order to stay with her young.

Charmed the Laharock? Family is important to you, and you’re always willing to protect the ones you love. Spending time outdoors in the sun is your jam, which meshes with your warm personality.

Visit the other charmers to learn more about the other beasts! #beastcharmertour



ABOUT KINGDOM OF EXILES
Title: Kingdom of Exiles
Author: Maxym M. Martineau
Series: The Beast Charmer #1
Pub Date: June 25, 2019
ISBN: 9781492689386

Assassin’s Creed meets Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them in this gripping, epic fantasy romance trilogy.

My heart wasn’t part of the deal when I bargained for my life,
But assassins so rarely keep their word.

Exiled Charmer Leena Edenfrell is running out of time. Empty pockets forced her to sell her beloved magical beasts—an offense punishable by death—and now there’s a price on her head. With the realm’s most talented murderer-for-hire nipping at her heels, Leena makes Noc an offer he can’t refuse: powerful mythical creatures in exchange for her life.

Plagued by a curse that kills everyone he loves, Noc agrees to Leena’s terms in hopes of finding a cure. Never mind that the dark magic binding the assassin’s oath will eventually force him to choose between Leena’s continued survival…and his own.

Maxym M. Martineau is an article and social media writer by day and a fantasy romance author by night. When she’s not getting heated over broken hearts, she enjoys playing video games, sipping a well-made margarita, competing in just about any sport, and of course, reading. She earned her bachelor’s degree in English Literature from Arizona State University and lives with her husband and fur babies in Arizona. Connect with her at MaxymMartineau.com or through Twitter and Instagram @maxymmckay.




Buy Links:



The publisher is sponsoring a giveaway for Kingdom of Exiles!

US/Canada winners only

See rules in rafflecopter



a Rafflecopter giveaway

Say No To The Duke by Eloisa James ~ Excerpt




Title: SAY NO TO THE DUKE
Author: Eloisa James
ISBN: 9780062877826
Price: $7.99
On-Sale Date: 6/25/19


Could she possibly refuse a duke’s hand—in favor of a sardonic, sinful rake?
Lady Betsy Wilde’s first season was triumphant by any measure, and a duke has proposed—but before marriage, she longs for one last adventure.
No gentleman would agree to her scandalous plan—but Lord Jeremy Roden is no gentleman. He offers a wager. If she wins a billiards game, he’ll provide the breeches.
If he wins…she is his, for one wild night.
But what happens when Jeremy realizes that one night will never be enough? In the most important battle of his life, he’ll have to convince Betsy to say no to the duke.


Available 6/25/19 from Avon Books

Author Bio:
 Eloisa James is a USA Today and New York Times bestselling author and professor of English literature, who lives with her family in New York, but can sometimes be found in Paris or Italy. She is the mother of two and, in a particularly delicious irony for a romance writer, is married to a genuine Italian knight. Visit her at www.eloisajames.com.








Excerpt:

They moved toward each other as if they were following the steps of a very slow, very grand country dance. One that was danced by kings and queens and countryfolk alike.

When they were  beside  each  other, she  squared her shoulders and met his eyes. “I decided to come to you. I hope that is all right.”

“I do believe that you are the bravest woman I’ve ever met,” he replied.

He couldn’t have said anything better; Betsy felt herself begin to glow. “I haven’t been brave to this point, but I have made up my mind to change. I outlawed being nervous, but now I need to outlaw being afraid.” She hesitated. “I have chosen courage, and now I choose happiness.”

“I love you as you are,” he whispered, and then his mouth came down on hers.

Her breath caught in her throat because their tongues met as if they kissed every day, every night. He tasted right, which sent a shiver through her whole  body,  and  pushed  her  against him gently, the way a pebble might roll up a beach when the tide comes in.

One doesn’t fight the tide.