Saturday, September 19, 2015

Audio Review: Rules of Love: The Mobile Mistletoe Book 6 by Natalie-Nicole Bates







On the surface, Paige Paget seems to have it all. She's beautiful, confident, successful, and the co-owner of a new business, Cheer-Mania Academy, with her sister, Polly. But beneath her seemingly charmed life, Paige is a woman stifled by rules.
When Paige meets Jordy Evans, the brother and now guardian of Paige's 14-year-old student, Gabrielle, she believes Jordy may be the man of her dreams. However, dating a man with the responsibility of parenting a teen means a whole new set of rules, and Paige isn't so sure she can handle it.
But the rules of love might not let Paige get away so easily.











Natalie-Nicole Bates writes wonderful love stories that draw you into the characters lives. Rules of Loves is a short sweet love story with a little heat.

In this story we meet Paige, who runs a cheer/dance academy. She wears a mistletoe headband to bring her luck to find your true love. She needs a permission slip from one of her student (Gaby) so she sets out to visits Gaby's guardian - Jordy.

Jordy is very protective of Gaby, but is very much attractive to Paige and the feeling is mutual as sparks fly between them.

When the relationship between them heats up, Jordy puts a road block as he doesn't want to have Gaby hurt or even know about the relationship between Paige and him. This causes Paige to question the rules as she is so tired of all the rules she had to live by in her past relationship.

Can both of them remove the road block or does the relationship hit a dead-end?

Natalie-Nicole writes a realistic love story and her characters are strong, loving and even humorous at times.

Rebecca Hansen, narrator does an excellent job on this book and would listen to other books that she narrates.

I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a sweet romance with a bit of heat.

I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.

5 Koala Paws





Natalie-Nicole Bates is a book reviewer and author.

Her passions in life include books and hockey along with Victorian and Edwardian era photography and antique poison bottles. Natalie contributes her uncharacteristic love of hockey to being born in Russia.

She currently resides in the UK where she is working on her next book and adding to her collection of 19th century post-mortem photos.




















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View all my reviews

Friday, September 18, 2015

SpotLight and Review: Wash Me Away by Wendy Owens






* A story about what happens after secrets 

Monsters have a way of following you. 
Immersed in a new world at boarding school, Addy Buckley learns she’s not the only one with secrets. While trying to navigate the minefield of painful lies that seem to be rattling around her family’s past, she meets soft on the eyes and heavy on the heart, Napoleon Blake. 

When faced with the darkness, Addy must decide to cling to her new life and friends or let the monster carry her away. The choice is hers, sink or swim. 

*story includes mature life situations and language (contains some trigger topics, please be aware) 

Author Interview: 

Question: What made you want to write Wash Me Away? 
Wendy: In the past year we watched friends struggle with the loss of a child due to teen suicide. It in no way is similar to the story we find in Wash Me Away, but it was the seed. I couldn't seem to wrap my mind around how I would ever be able to handle something like that as a parent. Then there were also the thoughts of, what if something more would have been done. More than anything you want to rewind time for that family and try to make the pieces fall differently. I wanted to write something that maybe could give teens who were in a dark place a sliver of hope. We can't magically fix problems, but sometimes, in life we just have to find enough hope to make it to tomorrow, and then tomorrow might just be better. 

Question: You touch on other sensitive subject matter in the book. Was there a reason you chose to tackle so many issues? 
Wendy: Honestly? I turned to the internet. I read the horror stories of what some teens were facing from one day to the next. I tried to use a trigger for depression that many young girls are unfortunately faced with. Incest, sexual abuse, suicide, abandonment, divorce, death, secrets, adoption, all of these issues teens are facing today, either themselves or someone they know. I wanted to talk about these issues in a way that was real and relatable. 

Question: Without spoiling anything, why did you choose to end it the way you did? 
Wendy: Okay, I know I am known for Happily Ever Afters in a lot of my books, and while this ending isn't tragic, it's not what a lot of readers are used to from me. This goes back to the sliver of hope. I really didn't want anyone reading this book to think "well my knight in shining armor is never coming," because there is a good chance you will have to be the hero of your own story. I wanted to empower readers to right their own heroic next scene. 

Question: Will there ever be more books in the series? 
Wendy: I originally intended for this to be a stand alone, but there is an entire other story to be told around Julia. I suppose we will just have to wait and see what the readers want. 

\

Kindle Unlimited


Oh my, what an emotional rollercoaster ride. This book tugs on your heart and you want to reach out to help those who can't help themselves.

Addison having to endure a horrible father is emotionally scarred and damaged. After her father has drowned in a flash flood, she moves in with her Aunt and Uncle. She is sent to a therapist to help deal with the death of her father and meets Leo, the therapist's son.

I loved Leo; he's funny, loving and quotes 80’s movies all the time. Lol, he kept me in stitches with his quotes.

We are given a glimpse of teenagers and their problems throughout this story. This story deals with suicide and how each Leo and Addison handle the stresses within their own lives.

Addison finds letters from her Uncle to her mother and learns the truth of what happened between them prior to her mother’s death. Unable to cope, she runs to find solace in the clouds. The most amazing written scene is where Addison is standing near the edge of a cliff and Leo talks her down.

Wendy has written an emotional story about depression, suicide and the hope for the future, which kept me page turning to see if Addison and Leo survived. Wendy gave each character depth and I could feel their emotions in waves.

I would highly recommend this story, but have the tissues near by as you will definitely need them.

5 Koala Paws




Wendy Owens was born in the small college town, Oxford Ohio. After attending Miami University, Wendy went onto a career in the visual arts. After several years of creating and selling her own artwork she gave her first love, writing, a try. She has released the YA fantasy series, The Sacred Guardians. She also has a NA Romance series, The Stubborn Love Series.


When she's not writing, this dog lover can be found spending time with her tech geek husband, their three amazing kids, and two pups. She loves to cook and is a film fanatic.

For more info on Wendy's young adult fiction and NA Romance visit http://wendy-owens.com/
If you want to follow her on social media you can visit:












Thursday, September 17, 2015

Cover Reveal: Tomorrow's Lies by S.R. Grey




Title: Tomorrow's Lies
Series: Promises #1
Author: S.R. Grey
Genre: New Adult/Coming of Age Romance
Cover Design: Hang Le
Release Date: October/November 2015


Blurb

When today's promises become tomorrow's lies, how can you believe in anything . . . or anyone?

Jaynie Cumberland has no idea how to trust again, so she’s given up on trying. Dumped in to the state foster care system at age fourteen, Jaynie spent three years treading water, just trying to get by.

Still, Jaynie always knew she was broken in some way. After all, why did her own mother abandon her? And following a harrowing experience at her first foster home, Jaynie’s worst fears are confirmed, leaving her feeling worthless and shattered.

Now Jaynie counts the days till she turns eighteen and can go out on her own. All she wants is to be free of everyone and everything. But before that can happen, she must make it through the next few months at one final foster home. There Jaynie meets a gorgeous, albeit rough-around-the-edges, boy who is dealing with the repercussions of his own turbulent past.

Flynn O'Neill is immediately taken with this new, fragile girl. He becomes determined to show Jaynie there is more to life than hurt and pain. Unfortunately, this new home they live in, one that promised to be a haven for unwanted kids, is more like a living hell.

So what do you do when you’re trapped and there’s no way out?

What if you fall in love and protecting the other person becomes the most important thing in your life?

What if something unthinkable happens, testing your love, and the stakes are raised higher than ever? Will you come out unscathed? Can today’s promises be kept? Or will they simply become more of tomorrow’s lies?

Tomorrow’s Lies is a beautiful story of an all-consuming love and broken people building a family out of nothing. It's about never giving up, even in the face of adversity. 

Note: NO cliffhanger!








Excerpt

“Today’s promises are nothing but tomorrow’s lies. Isn’t that what you once told me?”

“I didn’t mean for it to ever apply to us, Jaynie,” Flynn says.

“But, it could. We can’t predict the future.”

“Stop it,” he pleads.

I back off, whisper a gentle, “You’ll find me, then?”

“Yes, of course.”

“Say it again.”

“Jaynie…”

Flynn scrubs his hands down his face, then tilts his head back to stare up at the starless night. His eyes are wet, glistening.


He is breaking right along with me.






Author Bio

S.R. Grey is an Amazon Top 100 Bestselling author and a Barnes & Noble #1 Bestselling author. She is the author of the popular Judge Me Not series, the Inevitability duology, A Harbour Falls Mystery trilogy, the Laid Bare series of novellas, and Tomorrow’s Lies. Ms. Grey's novels have appeared on Amazon and Barnes & Noble bestseller lists in multiple categories, including #1 on the Barnes & Noble Nook Bestsellers list last year.



Author Links

Blog Tour and Review: Fall for Him by J. C. Valentine

Fall For Him Tour Banner

 Fall for Him by J.C. Valentine Forbidden #3 
Publication Date: August 25, 2015 
Also in this series: Dance for Me, Lie to You 

Fall for Him Cover

AmazonAmazon PrintB&NKoboiBooksSmashwordsARe

Synopsis: 
Two men. Both brothers. One life-changing decision.
I made my choice. One perfect weekend assured me I was right. One set of pictures proved me wrong. Graduating college was supposed to be a happy time. Instead, I lost my best friend and suffered the worst kind of betrayal. Now, my whole life is in flux. I need my best friend. I need answers. There’s only one way to fix this. It’s time for a change. It’s time to take back control of my life, and the only way to do it is to face my problems head-on. Even if it means walking into the lion’s den to do it. *AUTHOR'S NOTE* Fall for Him is the third and final book in the Forbidden Trilogy. Dance for Me (#1) and Lie to You (#2) must be read first. 


Add to Goodreads




This is the third book in Forbidden Series and I throughly enjoyed all 3 books within this series. 
This book takes off where book 2 ended, Joe is upset and goes to repair her relationship with Annie. 

Rebel doesn't understand what happened with Joe and is determined to figure it out. Joe comes back and wants to try again, but will it work or does Ransom or Florence throw a kink in their relationship?

I enjoyed how Joe took charge of her life and Rebel’s softer side. 

There is a lot of twists and turns within this whole series. No spoilers as this series is too good to give away all the details, but you get some wonderful exotic scenes and a love story that will leave you breathless. 

JC Valentine has written a great series and I would recommend this series to anyone who loves a romance with a suspense twist.

I received a commentary copy for a honest review.

5 Koala Paws



Have You Read the Other Books in the Forbidden Trilogy? Click On the Banner Below!

The Forbidden Trilogy Banner

About J.C. Valentine

JC Valentine

USA Today Bestselling author J.C. Valentine is the alter-ego of Brandi Salazar, whose enjoyment of tales of romance spurred her to branch out and create her own. She lives in the Northwest with her husband, their wild children, and far too many pets. As a university student, she studies literature, which goes well with her dream of becoming an editor. Brandi entertains a number of hobbies including reading and photography, but her first love is writing fiction-in all its forms. 

Tuesday, September 15, 2015

Cover Reveal: Supernatural Chronicles by New Adult authors Lila Felix, Kristie Cook, Brenda Pandos, Delphina Henley, Julia Crane, Jamie Magee, Morgan Wylie, Kallie Ross, S.T. Bende, and Rebecca Ethington

 

Join the Facebook Discussion Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/434753706727619/

Supernatural Chronicles: New Orleans Beneath the brow of Bourbon and French architecture, the iris of New Orleans swirls with flecks of worlds and beings unknown to mankind. Come with us as we chronicle their journey—each supernatural race must hunt for an offering in hopes of saving their own. Skinwalkers, Wolves, Vampires, Dragons, Succubi, Witches, Necromancers, Cupids, and Asgardians are all in danger of losing control as an uprising darkness threatens to rip the veil that protects them all from the great beyond. Ten original novellas, following each supernatural race as they fight an elusive enemy, are written by New Adult authors Lila Felix, Kristie Cook, Brenda Pandos, Delphina Henley, Julia Crane, Jamie Magee, Morgan Wylie, Kallie Ross, S.T. Bende, and Rebecca Ethington. Come join them for the hunt and discover hidden treasures inside. ~ The first supernatural chronicle will be release October 26th, and then weekly until the final release December 21st. Every week a different paranormal’s story will be told, and a relic will be revealed. Readers will be able to join in the hunt and win prizes. Whether you love witches, angels, or werewolves, New Orleans is being flooded with the supernatural this Fall. A boxed set will be available in early 2016, following the individual publications. Anyone that enjoys reading New Adult Paranormal won’t want to miss this release of novellas.   


Titles Include:
Supernatural Chronicles: The Skinwalkers by Lila Felix
Supernatural Chronicles: The Wolves by Kristie Cook
Supernatural Chronicles: The Vampires by Brenda Pandos
Supernatural Chronicles: The Dragons by Delphina Henley
Supernatural Chronicles: The Succubi by Julia Crane
Supernatural Chronicles: The Witches by Jamie Magee
Supernatural Chronicles: The Necromancers by Morgan Wylie
Supernatural Chronicles: The Cupids by Kallie Ross
Supernatural Chronicles: The Asgardians by S.T. Bende
Supernatural Chronicles: The Noir by Rebecca Ethington

  

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About Dynamis
The unseen force within, Dynamis, was something the Greeks knew to be vital, vigorous, powerful, positive, enterprising, magnetic, and above all passionate. We are the authors who strive to weave our stories from this great unknown.

Sunday, September 13, 2015

Blog Tour: Sunset Surprise by Natalie -Nicole Bates


Sunset Surprise
Sunset Beach Romance Series #4
by Natalie Nicole Bates
Blog Tour


Add to Goodreads


Synopsis

Summer Whitney’s life is spinning out of control. After the death of her fiancĂ©, she closed her successful tattoo shop and travelled the world searching for something or someone to hold on to. 

A reunion at Sunset Beach brought about a hasty decision to move back home seeking reconnection with her friends and family. But a surprise visit from ex love Kimon Galanos brings shocking news of the past – and the present. 

Will Summer remain long enough in Sunset Beach to rekindle love and finally find the last happiness that has eluded her all of her life, or will she run away again, this time forever?


Buy Links


About the Author

Natalie-Nicole Bates is a book reviewer and author.

Her passions in life include books and hockey along with Victorian and Edwardian era photography and antique poison bottles. Natalie contributes her uncharacteristic love of hockey to being born in Russia.

She currently resides in the UK where she is working on her next book and adding to her collection of 19th century post-mortem photos.



Visit Natalie online at www.natalienicolebates.com


Author Links


Blog Tour Hosted by Sweet N Sassy Book A Holics




Tuesday, September 8, 2015

Release Day Blitz: Deceptions by R. J. Van Cleave



~ Synopsis ~ 

Deceptions is the third book in the MacLane Family series and can be read as a standalone. It is the 
story of Jake and Natalie, but due to 'adult content,' it is best suited for mature readers.

Jacob “Jake” MacLane couldn’t give two shits about money, power, or prestige. His love for guns turned into a love of serving his country. His remarkable ability as a sniper gave him a purpose for living. His bad-boy looks and alpha-male attitude had the women vying for his attention. All of that ceased to matter the day his best friend was killed in action. What happened that day has haunted Jake ever since. No one - not his own brothers, or one mysterious woman - would ever know his deepest secret.

Natalie Sherman had her future planned out: graduate high school, get accepted into Juilliard’s dance program, and take Broadway by storm. What she hadn’t anticipated was her mother’s cancer diagnosis or death from the wretched disease. Natalie’s bright future quickly faded, until a one-night stand with a dark and sexy stranger made her feel alive again. Too bad he didn’t stick around to see 
what he’d left behind. A chance encounter with him had Natalie keeping her own secret locked away - especially because he didn’t even remember her.


When both of their secrets come crashing down around them at the same time, Natalie finally asks for Jake’s help. This time, he can’t refuse. It quickly becomes the most important mission of his life, and once the dust settles, nothing will ever be the same for them. Sometimes, only the right person will help you rebuild the ruins left by your deceptions...



~ Book Links ~ 




~ Excerpt ~ 

The following is an excerpt from Deceptions
by R.J. Van Cleave. All rights are reserved…

 Natalie finally looked up to see what, or better who, had her girlfriends’ g-strings in knots. Holy hell. No wonder they’re drooling. Piercing green eyes were locked on a target, and apparently, that target was her. Mr. Green Eyes was huge - easily six foot four - and bodies parted like the Red Sea as he cut across the crowded dance floor. His hair was either dark brown or black, but it was cut too short to tell. Military, she thought, from the look of him and the way he carries himself. He stopped just a few feet shy of her and she drank him in.

His jeans were worn in all the right places and he wore them well, slung low on his hips. A simple black tee stretched across a massive chest. Tan, muscular arms, that begged to be touched, were peppered with intricate tattoos. A tribal print meandered up one arm, disappearing into his sleeve, and reappeared at his neck. Natalie was itching to strip him of his t-shirt and follow the pattern to wherever it led. His body was made to be worshiped, and suddenly Natalie was feeling very spiritual at the moment.

It seemed that he caught the look of appreciation in her eyes because he gave her a half smile, half smirk as he took one step closer and said, “Dance with me.” He took her hands in his, and pulled her up into his massive chest. Before she could protest that he had not actually asked her, she found herself wrapped up in strong, yet surprisingly gentle arms, as he carried her out onto the dance floor. He let her body slowly slide down his, until her feet touched the floor. Then he cupped her chin with his large hand and gently lifted it, so that she was forced to look up at him. Big mistake.

He looked into her eyes, as if he were searching for something, and then mumbled, “So fucking beautiful,” before he brought his mouth down onto hers. She was in total shock when he pulled his lips away from hers, all too soon, and then he gently tucked her head under his chin. Half of her brain screamed that she should knee him in the nuts and run, while the other half told her no effing way – the man could kiss her again like that any damn time he wanted. But he didn’t. He just stood there, swaying gently with her in his arms, as if they’d done this a million times before.

The man made that one simple kiss the hottest thing Natalie had ever experienced - even if he was a freaking total stranger. Too bad he can’t dance worth a shit, though. Usually that would bug her enough to say ‘thanks, but no thanks’ and walk away - but not tonight. For the first time, she found she just didn’t care that a man couldn’t dance. It some how just felt right being in his arms, with her nose pressed against his neck, inhaling his spicy, musky cologne. And even more surprisingly, for the very first time, her dancing legs didn’t want to dance anyway, and she sighed as she stumbled ever so slightly.

“Whoa, there, Princess. You okay?” his deep voice rumbled as he picked up on the subtle movement.

She felt her legs begin to buckle again, and Natalie could only nod her head and hum, “Uh huh.”

“Damn, woman, but you have a body and a voice that could bring a man to his knees. You’re here alone, I hope?”

“Well, it just so happens to be your lucky day,” she sighed again, as she breathed in his intoxicating scent once more. “Aside from my posse back there, I’m here alone because my asshole boyfriend decided to dump me – on my twenty-first birthday, no less.”

“Well, your ex obviously is an asshole, but hey, his stupidity makes me one lucky bastard,” Jake chuckled.

Natalie giggled in turn – he had a great laugh. “Maybe,” she replied, but she resisted looking up into Jake’s eyes again. She could have sworn there was some kind of weird cosmic thing going on between the two of them, but she wasn’t sure if he felt it too.

Natalie’s throaty, hypnotizing laugh made Jake stop swaying and look down at the woman in his arms. His need to have her became even more intense when she finally lifted her head and looked him in the eyes again…and then she smiled. For a brief moment, he forgot to breathe. The emotions rushing through him in that instant were totally foreign to him. Jake MacLane was always in control, always in charge. Love at first sight didn’t exist, but he had an inkling that this sapphire-blue eyed woman, with her short blond hair, could actually get under his skin and become a pain in his ass. Kind of like how Tinkerbelle always messed with Peter Pan. All she needs is the wings, he chuckled to himself.

He hoped like hell the foreign feelings he was having were really due to the shots he’d slammed back right before he walked up to her, and not because she was wrapped up in his arms. He could feel the alcohol beginning to seep into his bloodstream, so in an effort to regain control and tamp down any actual emotions, he cleared his throat then gruffly asked, “Wadda ya say we celebrate your birthday properly then? My buddies and I are looking for a few ladies to show us around this little town. You think you’re up for the challenge tonight, little girl?”

Without even consulting her friends, or batting an eyelash, Natalie retorted, “You bet your sweet ass I am, little boy.”

His eyes darkened as he said, “Oh, Princess, let’s get something clear right here and now. There’s nothing sweet, or little about me. The sooner you understand that, the better prepared you’ll be for when I fuck you senseless.”

Natalie’s jaw dropped at his directness. If it had been any other man, she would have slapped him, and walked away. But her hand wouldn’t quite co-operate, and her feet were staying firmly planted where they were. Her damn body betrayed her as it actually shivered with anticipation. For some inexplicable reason, even smelling the alcohol on his breath couldn’t make her back away, as it usually did thanks to her step-father.

“You think so?” she challenged the gorgeous stranger before her.

“I know so,” he replied as he pulled her harder into his body. The bulge digging into her stomach told her there was no denying it.

The familiar tingle in her happy place, even if it had been non-existent lately, told her she wanted him just as badly. Something about him ignited a fire in her that she’d never felt with Mark, or any other man she’d been with over the last six years. Too bad she had no freaking clue what that something was. All she knew was that her body was in fact ready, willing, and able.

Natalie was far from being easy, but she liked sex. Ever since her first time, at the age of 15, she realized sex could fill a void in her life and provide her a much needed distraction. Even if it was only a temporary one at best, it was still far better than the hell she lived with at home. A bitter, alcoholic father and a terminally ill mother, who lived far far longer than the doctors ever anticipated, made from some not so joyous occasions in her life.

“Hey, earth to Princess. You okay?” Jake’s soothing voice brought Natalie back from her past.

“No. Yes. Sorry. I was just thinking about something else. I’m good now.” Before Jake could question her more, or hell, even ask her name, she added. “Really, I’m okay. Let’s go get your friends and get this party started. The night’s still young.”

She pushed out of his arms and Jake looked on in appreciation at Natalie’s ass, as she walked off in front of him. He had to actually tell his feet to get moving because watching the woman walk was like watching poetry in motion. When he finally joined her group, she was already sitting on a barstool at the table with her back to him. He thought he overheard one of her friends call her “Lee” and he let the name roll around in his head. Unbeknownst to him, partially because the music was so loud, and possibly because of the blood loss to his upper head, he hadn’t heard the “Nata” part of her name.

“Jake, my man. What do you have for us here?” asked Colin Hanson, the douchebag sniper that Jake’s boss, John Fielding, had picked to round out Jake’s mercenary team.

So it’s Jake, she mentally noted, as she leaned back slightly and found a solid wall of muscle.

“Well, hellooo there ladies,” Colin drawled. “I’m Colin, at your service,” and he winked at Natalie.

When the rest of the crew walked up behind him, Colin quickly introduced them. “Along with Jacob over there, who prefers Jake, this here’s Mitch, Dustin and Benito.” Each of the men politely nodded and said ‘hello,’ but Jake thought they were all staring at his woman a little too long. When Colin Hanson walked over to Natalie and asked her to dance with him, Jake decided he wasn’t in the mood to share. Ever since Ranger school, Hanson was always going after the woman Jake set his sites on. He pushed Hanson back with one hand and then barked out, “Change of plans, gentlemen.”

Natalie found herself quickly spun around on the stool and was now facing that solid wall of muscle. Jake pulled her up into him, and said, “Night boys. Lee and I have some things to do while the night’s still young. I’ll see y’all in the morning.” He took her hand in his and quickly dragged her away from his men. She heard him comment over his shoulder, “There are three more to choose from. Get your own damn woman, Hanson. You always go after mine, you little peckerhead.” That last part was said under his breath.

Jake’s vice grip on Natalie’s hand never loosened, as he continued to pull her across the crowded dance floor, past the bar and out the door. As soon as they hit the cold, night air, Natalie slammed on the breaks. “Just where in the hell do you think you’re taking me?” she cried, as she pulled back hard on Jake’s hand to get his attention, finally breaking his grip. Lord knows all her stumbling, and the colorful curse words she yelled each time she tripped, had no effect on the man. “And for the love of God, slow down. I can dance in heels but if you think it’s easy running in these damn things, then you wear them and I’ll be more than happy to drag you across a crowded bar, you freaking Jolly Green Giant!”

Jake simply turned, arched an eyebrow and replied, “Well, my little pint-sized pixie, I’m taking you to my hotel room, that’s where. And no, I won’t slow down, because I don’t want to wait one fucking minute longer than I have to before I get inside you.”

Natalie’s jaw dropped open once again, in shock, and this time she growled, “You cocky, arrogant son of…” Jake took two steps, grabbed the back of her head with one hand and crashed his mouth down onto hers, cutting her off. He hadn’t anticipated kissing her like this, and in public no less, but he couldn’t help it. When he first saw her on the dance floor, his first thought was only to go somewhere and talk, maybe just lose himself in this tiny little town with her for awhile. But fuck that. He’d been horny as hell after watching her for only a few minutes, and needed to lose himself in her.

He and his men had been exhausted from their long flight and were still dealing with the loss of their teammate, James, during their last official mission as Army Rangers. They touched down in Sacramento this morning and picked up a rental car en route to James’ hometown for his funeral. The drive to wherever they were now was only supposed to be a stop for gas, but the surrounding area looked all too inviting. Actually, since none of them were looking forward to the funeral, they agreed that one night to celebrate James’ life wouldn’t hurt. Only Jake hadn’t expected to find the most beautiful woman he’d ever seen, dancing in a bar, in the middle of Farmtown, USA.

Jake noticed the kiss got hotter as she lifted herself up, wrapping her long legs around his waist. He may have started this, but now, much to his delight, she was the one currently in charge. Jake put his other arm around her waist to steady her and almost took her against the truck they were standing next to, when she ground herself down onto him. Even in his slightly drunken state, though, he wanted to take his time and savor her.

He slowed the kiss down, which caused her to growl, but he ignored her. He slid his second hand up to the back of her head so he could hold her where he wanted her. He took back control as he thoroughly explored her mouth, and then her neck. Her hands wrapped around his forearms, but it wasn’t an attempt to remove them, rather it was her way of keeping herself right where she wanted to be.

He found her mouth again and sucked, then nipped her bottom lip. Knowing he couldn’t hold out any longer, he unwrapped her legs from his waist. In retaliation for removing her legs, she pulled his lower lip into her mouth and nipped it, just a little. That earned her a growl from him. “My hotel room, now.” he demanded against her lips. “Before we put on a fucking show for everyone in the parking lot.”

If the kiss hadn’t already knocked Natalie off kilter, his command definitely would have. When she didn’t protest, he’d quickly dragged her the few blocks to his hotel, in what seemed like a matter of seconds. Lucky for Natalie, the hotel elevator was filled with guests, so Jake kept his hands, and mouth, to himself. But his eyes - those eyes - never left hers. The look he gave her told her exactly what he was planning to do to her. Once they exited the elevator and were alone in the hallway, Natalie found her back up against the wall, and his mouth once again greedily on hers.

This time, his hands stayed away from her face, and they brushed down her upper thighs to her skirt hem. Her skin tingled and burned in the wake of his fingertips, as they skimmed up her bare legs. Instead of going directly where she wanted them to, they slid over her hips, only to find what she already knew. “Fuck, Lee. I had no idea your ass was bare under this skirt.”

“Well, Jacob, that sort of thing tends to happen when I wear a thong,” she sighed as he sucked on her neck, while caressing her skin. Usually he hated being called Jacob, but damn, not by her.

He pulled away, and he hesitated momentarily before saying, “I may be under the influence of the rocket fuel I downed at the bar, but I know for sure that I want you more than I’ve wanted any other woman. Now that we’re here, tell me that I can have you - at least for tonight.” Jake’s look was both intense and yet unsure. He wanted her, yes, she could feel it. But he also wanted to make sure this was what she wanted, too. He wasn’t a total dick, after all.

He’s slightly sloshed and he thinks my name is Lee. Perfect recipe for a one night stand. Get laid and get lost.

Yes,” she said almost breathlessly, afraid if she said it any louder, she might try and talk herself out of it. One-night stands were so not her, but why the hell not? Especially after the craptastic day she’d had, she could use some good sex to chase it all away.


~ Playlist ~
Jake’s Songs

Redneck Crazy, by Tyler Farr

International Love, by Pit Bull, feat. Chris Brown

Let Her Go, by Passenger

Outta My Head, by Craig Campbell

Savin’ Me, by Nickelback

Animals, By Maroon 5, feat. J. Cole (remix)

Coming Home, by Diddy, feat. Skylar Grey

Stay, by Florida-Georgia Line

Far Away, by Nickelback

Bottoms Up, by Brantley Gilbert

Natalie’s Songs

Before He Cheats, by Carrie Underwood

Can’t Remember To Forget You, by Shakira

Jar of Hearts, by Christina Perry

Chandelier, by Sia

Habits (Stay High), by Tove Lo

human, by Christina Perry

Wasting All These Tears, by Casadee Pope

Listen To Your Heart, by DHT, feat. Edmée

The Heart Wants What It Wants, by Selena Gomez

Follow the playlist on Spotify: Deceptions



~ Author Bio ~ 

R.J. Van Cleave grew up in a small town near San Diego, CA, where she still lives today. She loved science as a child and had planned on becoming a doctor. However, she realized she wanted to be a mother more, and switched to working in the Biotech industry. One daughter was eventually joined by fraternal twin sisters (a surprise), and R.J.’s life was complete. In 2011, her mom died from undiagnosed cancer and R.J.’s world was turned upside down. In an attempt to honor her mother’s life, R.J. got a few tattoos and schlepped through a few half marathons. Needles and strenuous exercise were two real fears for R.J., but her greatest fear was actually putting a story in her head down on paper. In June of 2013, R.J. finally conquered that fear when she sat down and wrote Demons, which she self-published on February 14, 2014. The MacLane Family series was born and R.J.’s career as a writer was too.







~ Social Media Links ~








E-Mail: rjvancleave@gmail.com





~ Synopsis ~

Demons is the first book in the MacLane Family series. It is the story of Jase & Cassie and does NOT have a cliffhanger ending. Due to ‘adult content,’ this book is best suited for readers 18 years of age and older.

Jason “Jase” MacLane grew up surrounded by money. Being half of Anderson-MacLane Industries had its privileges and provided a rather comfortable life for Jase and his siblings. Sure his family worked hard for that money, but to the opposite sex, that’s what made Jase so damn attractive. His luck with women, and love sucked. It took a few ex-girlfriends, and one cheating ex-wife, to cement the idea that he’d never be worth more to a woman than the amount of money he had in his bank account.

Cassandra “Cassie” Middleton grew up in a working-class family, surrounded by more love than money. When her parents died, Cassie stepped in and took care of her teenage sister while putting her own life on hold. It took one selfish ex-boyfriend, and one distant ex-husband, to prove to her that she was better suited for the role of caregiver and mother than for what she wanted most – to be desired and loved for who she was, rather than for what she did.

When Cassie buys the old Potts Farm out from under Jase, the compost hits the fan, and then the sparks fly. Cassie sees Jase as more than a means to financial security, and Jase sees Cassie as more than a mom and a provider. However, the demons from their past relationships prevent them from seeing themselves for who they really are. It will take trust, perseverance, one hell of a wild ride, and the willingness to risk it all, just one more time, to find the love they both deserve. Sometimes, you just need to find the right person to help you drive out your demons…


~Book Links ~

Amazon / B&N  / iTunes  / KOBO / Goodreads
















~ Playlist ~
Jase’s Songs
Demons, by Imagine Dragons

 Cruise, by Florida Georgia Line

 Knock You Down, by Keri Hilson, feat. Kanye West & Ne-Yo

God Gave Me You, by Blake Shelton

Cassie’s Songs
Sparks Fly, by Taylor Swift

Take Over Control, by Afrojack, feat. Eva Simons

See You Again, by Carrie Underwood

If I Didn’t Have You, by Thompson Square

Follow the playlist on Spotify: Demons





~ Synopsis ~

Damages is the second book in the MacLane Family series. It is the story of Justin and Mary, and can be read as a standalone. Due to ‘adult content,’ this book is best suited for readers 18 years of age and older.

Justin MacLane had it all, except for good luck when it came to women. He had money, good looks, and a great, down to earth personality. He was the youngest MacLane executive at Anderson-MacLane industries, but his connections and wealth were more impressive than his work ethic. Justin was just too nice and too giving, and women used him only to get ahead. That made Justin realize that he’d rather be alone than be a stepping stone for the next Hollywood sensation.

Mary Andrews had a hellish childhood, and only had bad luck when it came to men. The physical and sexual abuse she suffered as a child eventually led Mary to the biggest mistake of her life – Carson Matthews. After years of living with an abusive husband, she finally got out. Getting out, however, was the easy part. That made Mary realize she would rather be lonely, than ever trust her heart, or her body, to another man.


When Justin crosses paths with Mary, it takes only one look from her to know she is different from the others. Her razor sharp tongue and conservative dress protects her from the world, and Justin realizes Mary isn’t going down without a fight. Mary is totally and utterly unimpressed with Justin, his fat bank account, or his flashy Porsche. When his gentle manner stirs up feelings that she’s never felt before, Mary realizes she’s facing the biggest fight of her life. Sometimes, risking it all on the right person can help you finally heal the damages inflicted by others...


~ Book Links ~ 

Amazon / B&N / iTunes  / KOBO / Goodreads








~ Playlist ~

Justin’s Songs
Lost In Paradise by Evanescence

Enchanted by Taylor Swift

Wrecking Ball by Miley Cyrus

Knock You Down by Keri Hilson, feat. Kanye West & Ne-Yo

All of Me by John Legend

 Like A G6 by Far East Movement, feat. The Cataracs & Dev


Mary’s Songs
Run The World (Girls), by Beyoncé

Body Party, by Ciara

Because Of You, Kelly Clarkson

Gunpowder & Lead, by Miranda Lambert

Independence Day, by Martina McBride

Dark Horse, by Katy Perry, feat. Juicy J

My Heart Is Broken, by Evanescence

Bring Me to Life, by Evanescence

Love The Way You Lie, by Eminem, feat. Rihanna

Follow the playlist on Spotify: Damages