"Surviving Love", MS Brannon

“She is my heart and the other half of my life, and now, that life no longer exists." ~Drake Evans, Surviving Love

For Drake Evans, life was once happy. He was living the kind of existence that any man would envy. By his side was the woman he loved and a daughter he cherished. Life was truly perfect, until the day demons from the past came crashing into their perfect world, destroying everything he had been so sure would last forever.

Today, Drake’s life is shrouded in misery. Every day he faces the unyielding pain of losing the love of his life at the hands of a drug dealing murderer. On top of it all, he has to live with the anguishing betrayal caused by the devastating role his brother played in Presley’s death. Gone are the days of carefree happiness and impending futures. They've all been replaced with the shallow emptiness hollowing out his heart and the undeniable rage pumping through his veins. Drake is only moving through the motions of life, raising his daughter and earning a living, in the only way he can tolerate—alone.

Since the day she was banished from her family, Zoe Ledoux lives her life as a free spirit. For the past four years, Zoe’s been moving through life day by day, place by place. She never stays in one area long enough to establish relationships. She refuses to get close to anyone, protecting herself from the fear of once again being left behind. Then a turn of fate sends her to Sulfur Heights where she lands a job working as a bartender.

In a chance meeting, an instant connection forms, bringing together the wounded souls of Drake and Zoe. It is together that they begin to cope; to mend the brokenness of their pasts and feel what it is like to truly live again. However, will their newly formed friendship be enough to pull Drake and Zoe from their dark pasts? Can Drake overcome the fear of losing someone he loves and eradicate his anger just enough to let someone in? Will he learn that Surviving Love with Zoe is what he ultimately needs in order to be happy?

Add to your Goodreads

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Surviving-Love-Sulfur-Heights-Brannon-ebook/dp/B00JA1MH4W/ref=sr_sp-atf_title_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1395916853&sr=1-1&keywords=surviving+love

Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/surviving-love-ms-brannon/1118976939?ean=2940149195213

 

 

I yank open the door and pull the half empty bottle of whiskey left in the cupboard. Unscrewing the cap, I tip the glass to my lips and allow a few more tears to fall down my face.

“Here’s to the rest of a useless life,” I toast to no one and chug down the whiskey. It instantly burns and calms my insides. The raging ocean of emotions I can’t seem to shake is finally subduing, and it’s welcome. Jack Daniels is always welcome to ease my agony. Always.

I rip my tucked-in shirt from the waistband of my pants and move down the back stairs. The last time I wore this fucking shirt was when I saw Presley in rehab. I will never wear this piece of shit again. Still grasping the bottle, I rip open my shirt, popping buttons as my chest is exposed to the cold, damp air.

I walk to the driveway and see the spot where I last held Presley alive. My boots scuff the pavement when I walk toward the dreaded spot. I hold the bottle to my lips again and chug. Then again and again. It’s burning my gut and suffocating my throat, but I keep gulping it down. My legs give out, collapsing to the concrete. The pain stings when my knees connect with the ground. I relish in it. It’s more welcome than the pain in my heart.

“This is the only way I can get you out of my mind,” I whisper out loud to no one, or maybe to her, but I don’t fucking know. “I need you out of my mind. I need peace for just a day. I love you, Presley, but I just need peace.” I expel a deep breath and choke back another drink. “Don’t hate me, baby, but please…give me some peace.”

I lay down on the cold concrete just as the rain begins to pick up again. I don’t care. I want to be in this spot. I want to be with her. And I want to be numb. I choke back a few more drinks until the bottle is empty then close my eyes, envisioning only her honey-brown irises and the world I will no longer possess. ~ Drake Evans, Surviving Love

Amazon * Kobo * B & N

Amazon * Kobo * B & N

Amazon * Kobo * B & N

M.S. Brannon was born and raised in the Midwest. She still resides there today with her wonderful husband and son. When she is not writing or reading, M.S. Brannon spends time with her family, watching movies, and discovering new music. She writes romance because she believes love and heartache is the rawest emotion one can experience.

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Melissa Mayberry, "Mellifica" (books 1 & 2)

Book #1: "Mellifica: Devastating First Love"

While reading "Mellifica: Devastating First Love", I had to keep reminding myself that Mel (Melissa/Mellifica) is only 16 years old.

That age is difficult enough... But to read what Mel went through, was so emotional.  So much for such a young age.

At times it was easy to get frustrated with her (and other characters) while reading; but the more you read, and the more complex things get, the more you get sucked in... and you'll find that you might question things in the same manner that Mel does.

She has so much pressure in her life, and I found myself really hoping for her to find happiness.

I'm not going to give spoilers ;) 

I do recommend this book. 

Rating 4/5 stars. 

I'm going on to read book #2 in the series now ("Mellifica: Wait For Me").

 

 

Book #2: "Mellifica: Wait For Me"

After reading book #1 (Mellifica: Devastating First Love), I needed more of Mel's story, so I dived right into this, book #2, "Mellifica: Wait For Me".

*Note: I do my reviews without spoilers, so that anyone who hasn't read the story yet can enjoy experiencing it firsthand once they read it ;)

Once again, Mel is put through a lot of emotionally charged events. We're reacquainted with most of the same characters whom we were introduced to in book #1.

I've read a lot of books, and I have to say that these stories touched my heart. For someone who's only 16 years old, Mel goes through so much angst. I was literally brought to tears on more than one occasion while reading this. (But, that's not a bad thing, in my opinion... it proves what a great writer Melissa Mayberry is).

If you haven't read these yet, I recommend this series. Be prepared to be emotionally affected though (and yes, sometimes frustrated with some of the choices made by the characters).

I guarantee you'll get sucked in to their story <3

 

 

 Melissa on Facebook

Melissa on Amazon

 

 

 

"Stealing His Heart", by Ella Jade

Spotlight & review: Ella Jade, "Stealing His Heart"

Thanks so much for hosting me today. I’m thrilled to announce the release of my newest erotic, contemporary romance Stealing His Heart. If you like your men hot, dirty and southern, I may have just the thing for you.

When the players take the field this spring come meet my players...

Will the bad-boy pitcher strike out when it comes to love?

Shy music teacher Sophia Ballis has sworn off men. After a bad experience with a college jock she decided it was better to be alone than to get burned again. She focused on her education and now her new job at a local private school.

Professional baseball pitcher Paxton Hughes is a player both on and off the field. He's signed to the Kingston Crushers to bring home the coveted championship title. Nothing can get in his way. Serious relationships don't mix with a life on the road and he never loses focus on the game. One-night stands are his specialty for a reason.

While out jogging one spring morning, the two collide, setting their course in motion. Pax is immediately drawn to the unassuming beauty. Sophia is aware of his reputation and decides one night of meaningless sex with the attractive Texas charmer is just what she needs to get over her self-imposed dry spell. Pax has more than a one-night stand on his mind, but will his bad-boy persona and demanding schedule ruin any chances of a happily ever after?

Content Warning: contains explicit sex and adult content

Amazon

Barnes and Noble

Beachwalk Press Buy Link

I have to start by stating that Ella Jade is one of my favorite romance authors.  Every time that I read one of her books, once finished it gets added to my "favorites" list.  She creates characters that are likable and relatable to, humorous, sexy, complex...

With "Stealing His Heart", she has been able to do it yet again for me.

Pax is a sweet talker, hot, caring, attentive (I could go on and on about this character!) ;) 

Sophia is sweet, a little shy at times, but also feisty, and not afraid to let it be known what she wants and what is hers.

This is a great love story.  I'm very much looking forward to the next one.

5/5 stars, well deserved!

“Can I walk you to your car?”

“Thank you.” Sophia got up from the table and took his hand. “I’m parked right out front.”

Pax led her across the dance floor, waving to the few people who were left, and then out to the parking lot.

“It’s that one.” She pointed to her beat-up car, the one she’d bought her freshman year of college. It was used then but it still managed to get her where she needed to go. “Probably not as nice as what you drive.”

He leaned her against the car and wrapped his arms around her waist. Her heart pounded hard against her chest, strumming loud between her ears. She could smell the beer that lingered on his breath. His hazel eyes narrowed as he swiped the tip of his tongue along his top lip before tilting his head.

“I have a feeling I’m going be seeing you in my dreams tonight.” He sighed as he brought his mouth to hers. “Give me something to remember these next few days.”

She nodded as she placed her hands on his broad shoulders and guided him to her, closing any space between them. When his warm lips touched hers, she thought she would explode. A burn coursed through her and settled between her legs. The mild tingling she’d experienced when they danced was nothing compared to the intensity she felt now.

As he deepened the kiss, his tongue massaged hers. Increasing his hold on her hips, he pinned her between the car and his massive thighs. She tightened her grip on him when his erection grazed her center. Every nerve ending in her begged to be satiated. The ache inside her stomach moved lower until the dampness invaded her panties. Her nipples poked against the thin material of her silk bra.

When she moaned into his mouth, he placed one last kiss on her lips before pulling away. He looked at her for a moment, pressing his forehead to hers, as he stuttered a few words.

“That was...well, I’ve never...” He ran his fingers through his hair. “You have me tongue-tied, sugar. That doesn’t happen often.”

Now she wanted to know what else he could do with that tongue.

“You best get in that car and drive away before I...”

She’d never wanted to have a one-night stand more than she did at that very moment. Maggie had said if there was ever a guy to have one with, Pax would be the one. He was a no-strings-attached player. Why hadn’t he asked her to go home with him?

“Be safe driving home.” He reached for the handle and opened her door. “You have some sweet dreams. I know I sure will.”

Sleep? That was the last thing on her mind.

About Ella

Ella Jade has been writing for as long as she can remember. As a child, she often had a notebook and pen with her, and now as an adult, the laptop is never far. The plots and dialogue have always played out in her head, but she never knew what to do with them. That all changed when she discovered the eBook industry. She started penning novels at a rapid pace and now she can't be stopped.

Ella resides in New Jersey with her husband and two young boys. When she's not chasing after her kids, she's busy writing, attending PTO meetings, kickboxing, and scrapbooking. She hopes you'll get lost in her words.

You can connect with her at:

Blog: http://ellajadeauthor.blogspot.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Ella-Jade-Author/186959391390708?ref=hl

Twitter: http://twitter.com/ellajade1

GIVEAWAY

I’m giving away a Bath and Body Works Hand Sanitizer, A Keychain with the cover art and signed swag to three winners throughout the tour.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Thanks for stopping by. I hope you’ll consider adding Stealing His Heart to your TBR pile.

Non Friction - Morgan Parker

After 12 years, 4 months and 1 and 1/2 weeks of marriage, his wife packs up and leaves with their daughter. So he writes an Indie novel. And it becomes a bestseller. Well, sort of. 

His fame brings him the lifestyle of a rockstar, and he has the fan mail (i.e. female undergarments, probably clean) to prove it. 

But seeing his fame, his wife suddenly believes in marriage counseling. Their homework: to create something beautiful for each other. 

So he writes Our Story, his literary secret-weapon that will win his wife back. But in the process he discovers that true love is more than just ticking the right boxes on a checklist, it starts with.....well.....}i{

BUY LINKS:

UK http://amzn.to/1dOesBD 

US http://amzn.to/1dOeMAC

Sometimes I'm very fortunate to find a book that I've enjoyed reading so much that I'm actually sad to see the book end.  One that I found so enjoyable, that it's tough to put into words just how much I loved the story.  This is one of those books.  "Non Friction" is about Morgan Barker (no, no, not Morgan *Parker*-- that's the author) ;) 

Ok, so I'm going to try really hard to do this review with NO spoilers!  Here we go :)

Morgan Barker= Hilarious... Caring... An author (not a "writer"!)... Sexy (he says so, so it must be true, right?)... A good dad (I had to laugh at the banter between him and his daughter... my son comes out with some one-liners and tries to argue cases, so the humor between he and his daughter was funny and relatable).

The story starts off letting us know what is happening with Morgan's marriage -- er, the (?)end of his marriage, actually...  His wife is nicknamed Princess B*tch (it's deserved, you'll see).  Then you'll also meet their little girl, Evelyn.

Princess B*tch leaves Morgan, and she takes their daughter with her.  

Morgan then meets Emma.  I don't want to give away too much about Emma here.  I'm afraid if I say too much I'll give spoilers to those of you who haven't read the story yet.  As someone who loved seeing how things unfolded in this story, I really don't want to spoil anything for you!

After a turn of events, Morgan begins writing a story, which he feels could be the remedy to fix his marriage.

There's humor, romancing (that's a word, right?), sweetness, sexiness, sadness... My emotions got a little workout.

This is a wonderful story, and I highly recommend it.  I happily give it 5-stars, well deserved.

}i{

Morgan Parker is the pen name for a shy and introverted banker. He currently divides his time between Toronto, Canada and his imagination. When he isn’t writing or working with clients or relaxing at Balzac’s with a medium non-fat cappuccino, Morgan Parker enjoys spending time with his family. And sleeping, preferably on a bed (the left side) but depending on the day, he can pretty much curl up anywhere. No, he is not currently accepting applications for cuddling partners. 

*Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Author-Morgan-Parker/275520695903188

*Twitter: https://twitter.com/mparkerbooks

*Author Website: www.textualencounter.com

*Author Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18755640

*Author Amazon Page:http://www.amazon.com/Morgan-Parker/e/B00AP4QL7M/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_1 

We are having a Scavenger Hunt during the blog tour.

Make sure you stop by each blog's stop and check out the fun facts about Morgan Parker they will be sharing. Some of the facts have clue's to the message from Morgan Barker (Character of Non Friction) You must find the ones with Yellow writing and put them together to make the message. Once you have the message send it to verna_loves_david5104@hotmail.com 

First person to get the message wins a Signed Paperback of Non Friction by Morgan Parker! 

Schedule to follow:

http://vernadene.blogspot.com/2014/02/non-friction-tour-schedule-feb-17thfeb.html

Hosted by:

"Tainted Pictures", Sarah Robinson

Tainted Pictures HTML

Tainted Pictures (The Photographer Trilogy #2)

New Adult Romance

Sarah Robinson

Kate Jackson had no idea who she was until she met Derrick Kane and their whirlwind romance turned out to be the everything she needed to build a future and heal her past. 

But a shocking crime leads Kate to uncover the work of an extremely dangerous serial killer, notoriously called “The Photographer” due to his penance for taking pictures of his victims. 

Derrick continues to work to gain back Kate’s trust and to find The Photographer as Kate builds new friendships and finds new skills. 

Can she catch The Photographer and learn to trust Derrick again? Find out in the final book of The Photographer Trilogy.

Links for Tainted Pictures:

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20975446-tainted-pictures

Link for the Tainted Pictures Facebook Party:
https://www.facebook.com/events/699495943434455/

Links for Sarah Robinson:

www.booksbysarahrobinson.net

www.facebook.com/booksbysarahrobinson

www.twitter.com/booksby_sarah

Clarissa Wild, "FURY"

Title: FURY (#1.5, Fierce)

Author: Clarissa Wild

Publication Date: March 17th 2014

Genre: New Adult Romance
Price: $ 0.99 for a short time only! (Regular price $ 2.99!)
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20684841-fury

FURY is a retelling of FIERCE from Hunter's Point Of View. The book contains unique, never before seen scenes.

Would you risk everything for love?

Life has held nothing but hardships for Hunter Bane. Growing up with a learning disability wasn’t easy, especially when you’re poor. With only his brother to support him, Hunter clings to the short moments of happiness in life. Like when he meets Autumn Blakewood.

Autumn Blakewood is a geek at heart. Reading is her passion, and she can’t spend one day without her books. She’s always locked up in her room studying, trying to avoid trouble. Until Hunter comes into her life.

Hunter can’t resist the temptation to get closer to Autumn. She is his complete opposite, and yet he’s drawn to her in ways he can’t explain. But when his brother is caught dealing drugs and sent to prison, Hunter’s world shatters.
To save his brother, Hunter has to join the gang he’s feared his entire life. Now he’s forced to choose between his family and the one girl he loves. Fighting for both, his fury is all he needs…

If you've read "Fierce" by Clarissa Wild, then you'll recognize these characters in "Fury".

This is told from Hunter's POV... and, let me tell you... his point-of-view is fantastic ;) It's amazing being in his head.  He's a very complex guy.  You definitely cannot judge person, because you really never know what someone is going through in life.

Autumn/Leafy is such a favorite character of mine :) she's feisty, sweet, caring, seemingly awkward, a bookworm (not bad things).  

Hunter is drawn to her.   She is drawn to Hunter.

I'm not going to give any spoilers.  As I say in most of my reviews that I post, I want you to be able to experience this book for yourself ;)

I will say that Clarissa Wild has written a wonderful story here (with both Fierce and Fury). These characters are likable (although frustrating at times).  They're also multi-layered, have a lot going on behind the scenes that the onlookers have no idea about.

This book made me happy, sad, impressed, excited, scared, shocked... It really is a great story.  If you haven't read this series yet, I highly recommended it.

Fierce is book 1, Fury is book 1.5, and it appears a following book is in the works.

Five stars :) 

$ 0.99 for a short time only! Grab it before it's too late!
Amazon | Barnes&Noble | Kobo | Google Play | All Romance | Smashwords (Coupon: ZG43X)

My forehead leans against hers as I gaze into her deep blue eyes that are full of longing. I want her to believe me, to trust in me, to feel that I need her. I didn’t want her to get hurt because of me, but I can’t stay away any longer. I need her more than anything. She is my drug and I’m giving in to my addiction.

I lick and bite my lip in anticipation, waiting for her to let me in. I can’t stop wanting her, but if she really doesn’t want me the same way I do then I’ll have no choice but to stop. “Tell me what you want. What you really need. Do you want me to let you go? Do you want me to stop hunting for you?” I whisper.

I’m pleading in my head for her to say ‘no.’ I look her in the eye, telling her without words that this is what I desire the most. She takes in a deep breath and opens her mouth.

When she says, “Kiss me. I want you to kiss me,” I’m done for.

I press my lips on top of hers like before, taking it slow and easy this time. It felt like I was dying of thirst, but now, after knowing she’s okay with it, I’m much calmer. I take her lips in slow, lavish licks, kissing her with every ounce of my love.

She shivers in my arms as I hold onto her tight, pulling her closer to me. She kisses me back tenderly, her lips as caring and soft as she is. Her hot mouth is driving me insane. She’s the only one who can do this to me.

She’s turning to mush in my arms, and I love how it feels, so powerful, so intense. My instincts take over as I grab her hands and pin them above her head. I alternate my kisses with nibbles, arousing her so much she moans out loud. My cock responds with enthusiasm, poking against the fabric of my pants, eager to take her.

Before I know it, my hands are slipping down her body, along her waist, and to her thighs, my fingers desperate to squeeze that tight ass of hers. Her arms find their way to my chest, and I love how she feels me up, desperate to get a hold of me. She twines her arms around my neck, giving me full access to her skin. I kiss my way to her neck, finally able to press my lips on that one spot I know winds girls up. She starts panting, and then I know I’ve hit the sweet spot.

I’ve waited so long for this that it takes every fiber of my being not to pick her up and bang her against the car right now. She’s a virgin, and I don’t want to make her do things she’s not ready for. She’s never been fucked, and that’s all I ever do. I don’t make love. I bang girls, take them in whatever position I like. I’m not so sure she’s even been kissed like this before.

But shit, this is fucking hot.

I pull back for a second, breathing out my horniness. “God, that dress,” I groan. “Why’d you have to put that on?”

“Couldn’t come to the party in a pair of sweatpants,” she mutters.

She giggles when I leave little pecks on her collarbone, peeking down into her dress. I can already see the swell of her tits, primed and ready for me to cup and lick the crown. “Hmmm …” I rest my head on her shoulder, nibbling on her earlobe. “You look so damn hot… You don’t wanna know what goes on in my mind when you’re all dressed up like this. It’s too dirty to handle,” I whisper.

I can feel the goose bumps forming on her body as my hands slide down her arm. “Although I wouldn’t mind the sweatpants either. Easier to take off.”

Although nothing beats her sex appeal in this black dress. Damn.

I suckle on her earlobe and move back to her lips again, leaving hickeys all over her neck. My hand shifts to her ass and I squeeze tight, feeling her perky flesh in my fingers. She gasps. Hot fucking Jesus. Now I really want to come inside her.

Our lips are locked, our eyes closed, and my mind is whirring with thoughts about stripping her bare. When she grasps my hair and tugs me closer my cock thumps in my pants. My fingers slide down her leg and move up her dress, slowly getting closer to her most sensitive spot. God, I wonder if she’s ever been touched there. I’d like to be the first.

I’m fucking her with my mouth, my tongue going crazy as I press my cock against her thigh. Sweet Jesus. We’re not even naked yet and I already feel like I want to make her scream my name.

FURY PLAYLIST

FURY was written using a lot of the same songs I listened to while writing FIERCE, but there are a couple of new ones that might be interesting to you ;) Check them out!

You can check them out below with Spotify, or listen to them here with Youtube:

BOOK 1 only 0.99 cents!

SYNOPSIS

Fight for your dreams. Fight for your life. Fight for love.

Nerdy girl Autumn Blakewood is the prime example of a goody two-shoes. She studies every night, is never late for class, and always follows the rules. She has never felt the need to step out of her comfort zone. That is, until she meets Hunter.

Hunter Bane is a cocky, confident bad-boy, who's nothing but trouble. He’s a dangerous distraction to everyone around him. Sexy and strong, Hunter enjoys the swooning effect he has on women. Especially those who aren't used to attention, like Autumn.

Autumn finds it hard not to give into Hunter’s advances, even though it all seems like a game to him. Trying to understand him is impossible, because he shrouds himself in mystery.
What she doesn't know is that Hunter has more baggage than anyone should have to carry. When she discovers he's in an illegal frat club to save the one person that matters to him, Autumn realizes this could mean the end of her undeniable connection to him. Even their lives are at risk.
But it's too late to turn back now ...

BUY LINKS

Amazon | Barnes&Noble | Kobo | iTunes | Google Play | All Romance | Smashwords (Coupon: EU25J)

AUTHOR BIO

Clarissa Wild is the Amazon Bestselling Romance author of FIERCE, a top 200 and top 15 New Adult Romance novel. She is also a writer of erotic romance such as the Blissful Series, The Billionaire's Bet series, the Doing It Series and the Enflamed Series. She is an avid reader and writer of sexy stories about hot men and feisty women. Her other loves include her furry cat friend and learning about different cultures. In her free time she enjoys watching all sorts of movies, reading tons of books and cooking her favorite meals.

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AUTHOR LINKS

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Amazon

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