Review: Wanted by Annika James

Title: Wanted
Series: No
Author: Annika James
Published: January 2013, MuseItUp
Format: Ebook provided by Sizzling PR for review

Attacked as a young witch and left for dead, Ashlinn is deathly afraid of being bitten again. Having survived until she’s almost eighteen without donating blood to any of her vamp friends, Ashlinn figures she’ll continue to live bite-free. After her crush reveals how powerful she is, however, the Vampire Council declares she be claimed as a familiar, which requires biting. Ashlinn doesn’t want to be owned, even by hot vamp, Conor. Luckily, her best friend, Matt, volunteers for the job. She is given one week to choose her protector, and the list of willing biters keeps growing. Will she go with best friend Matt, hot vamp Conor, or someone else to protect her? Will she be able to get her power under control by then? Will she overcome her phobia of being bitten? And who says she needs to be protected, anyhow?

Review: Disintegrate by Christine Klocek-Lim

Title: Disintegrate
Series: No
Author: Christine Klocek-Lim
Published: April 2013, Evernight Teen
Format: Ebook provided for review

Emily just wanted a normal life: a boyfriend, college, two parents who loved her. Instead, her dad disappeared when she was fourteen and her life at college is anything but ordinary.

When you can manipulate matter like putty and you have no idea why, how do you pretend to be like everyone else? What happens when you meet a guy who has the same powers? Do you trust him to help you find the answers you need?

Emily desperately wants to believe that Jax can help, but the stakes grow higher than she’d ever expected: someone is after them and they’re not afraid to use violence to get what they want.

Disintegrate is the story of Emily, and her life after she meets Jax. Emily is a bit different from most teens. For one, she’s in college and she’s only seventeen. Oh, and two, she has special abilities. Yep. She can warp physical matter. Pretty cool, right? It’s actually pretty neat, watching her as she warps something, and then swipes her hand back over it to bring it to its original state. And as the story goes on, her powers grow. I really enjoyed watching her evolve into something a little bit more badass than when she first started out.

But one night, while out for a bit, she feels compelled to go into this hole in the wall bar. She even has to beg the bouncer to just let her in, since she is underage. But she knows she has to get in, she’s just drawn to it and a voice she hears singing from outside. And when she gets in she sees him. Jax. And he sees her. And the two of them are drawn together. When he finishes his set he’s on his way over to introduce himself to her.  Jax is sexy, with his fabulous voice and guitar playing.  I instantly like him.  And then he turns out to be caring and sensitive, and it just makes me like him even more.

The story itself was pretty easy and enjoyable, for the most part. I really liked Emily and Jax, their growing relationship was nice and comfortable. And when it comes out and they both discover they both have the ability to manipulate matter, I’m so happy for them! They’ve felt alone their whole lives, independently. And now they have each other to confide in and lean on. And everyone needs that in their lives.

But it isn’t long before everything goes to hell for them, and they are being hunted by some bad guys, mercenaries of some sort. From here on out, while I still enjoyed the story very much, I had some trouble with it. I felt like it was kind of missing some back story, to help fill in some gaps. I would have also really liked some more detail, to help flesh it all out some more. There were definite times where it felt like it was jumping from scene to scene without a clear path in the middle, and moved a bit too fast for my tastes.

But even lacking the detail I was looking for, the ultimate storyline was pretty interesting; lots of drama and action. As time went on and they were on the run, I didn’t really continue to feel as invested in them though. It just kind of lost it for me, and that was a bit disappointing. All in all, it was a good story, but lacked the whatever it is that I wanted to see to just reach out and grab me.

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Review: Disintegrate by Christine Klocek-Lim

Title: Disintegrate
Series: No
Author: Christine Klocek-Lim
Published: April 2013, Evernight Teen
Format: Ebook provided for review

Emily just wanted a normal life: a boyfriend, college, two parents who loved her. Instead, her dad disappeared when she was fourteen and her life at college is anything but ordinary.

When you can manipulate matter like putty and you have no idea why, how do you pretend to be like everyone else? What happens when you meet a guy who has the same powers? Do you trust him to help you find the answers you need?

Emily desperately wants to believe that Jax can help, but the stakes grow higher than she’d ever expected: someone is after them and they’re not afraid to use violence to get what they want.

Disintegrate is the story of Emily, and her life after she meets Jax. Emily is a bit different from most teens. For one, she’s in college and she’s only seventeen. Oh, and two, she has special abilities. Yep. She can warp physical matter. Pretty cool, right? It’s actually pretty neat, watching her as she warps something, and then swipes her hand back over it to bring it to its original state. And as the story goes on, her powers grow. I really enjoyed watching her evolve into something a little bit more badass than when she first started out.

But one night, while out for a bit, she feels compelled to go into this hole in the wall bar. She even has to beg the bouncer to just let her in, since she is underage. But she knows she has to get in, she’s just drawn to it and a voice she hears singing from outside. And when she gets in she sees him. Jax. And he sees her. And the two of them are drawn together. When he finishes his set he’s on his way over to introduce himself to her.  Jax is sexy, with his fabulous voice and guitar playing.  I instantly like him.  And then he turns out to be caring and sensitive, and it just makes me like him even more.

The story itself was pretty easy and enjoyable, for the most part. I really liked Emily and Jax, their growing relationship was nice and comfortable. And when it comes out and they both discover they both have the ability to manipulate matter, I’m so happy for them! They’ve felt alone their whole lives, independently. And now they have each other to confide in and lean on. And everyone needs that in their lives.

But it isn’t long before everything goes to hell for them, and they are being hunted by some bad guys, mercenaries of some sort. From here on out, while I still enjoyed the story very much, I had some trouble with it. I felt like it was kind of missing some back story, to help fill in some gaps. I would have also really liked some more detail, to help flesh it all out some more. There were definite times where it felt like it was jumping from scene to scene without a clear path in the middle, and moved a bit too fast for my tastes.

But even lacking the detail I was looking for, the ultimate storyline was pretty interesting; lots of drama and action. As time went on and they were on the run, I didn’t really continue to feel as invested in them though. It just kind of lost it for me, and that was a bit disappointing. All in all, it was a good story, but lacked the whatever it is that I wanted to see to just reach out and grab me.

Affiliate Link

Follow Christine Online: 

Goodreads

Website

Twitter

Review: Mergers & Acquisitions by Sorcha Mowbray (18+)

Title: Mergers & Acquisitions
Series: The Edge Series
Author: Sorcha Mowbray
Published: April 2013, Decadent Publishing
Format; Ebook received for review

Shannon Pearce is an acquisitions specialist who helps businesses buy other businesses. Her latest project has left her fantasizing about her provocative client. After closing the deal successfully, she is faced with another proposition of a very personal nature.

Dalton Granger can’t get his very sexy acquisition specialist out of his head. For weeks he has been tormented by the idea of not only having her in his bed but also at his mercy. What Dom doesn’t fantasize about a sensual, submissive woman? But, can she let go long enough to relax and give him the control he craves? If she does, will she dance along the edge of passion with him and push her own boundaries or cling to the power she’s worked so long to gain?

After a high stakes meeting, Dalton invites Shannon for a drink to celebrate. She says yes, and then he informs her it will be in his room at the hotel. He says he has an offer for her, of a personal nature. He certainly means business with his offer!

“… I’ve done nothing for weeks but imagine your long legs wrapped around my hops as I drive my cock into your wet pussy until we both explode.” 

So um, heck yeah, this book definitely had some hot going on!! It got into it right away, which I totally liked. The entirety of this book wasn’t all that long, pretty much one scene. But in that scene you sure get a heck of a good time.

As soon as Dalton tells Shannon she is to call him Sir, she is instantly and eagerly compliant. I just totally want to cheer at this point, talk about taking the bull by the horns! She is normally pretty tough when it comes to work and her outside life, so to see her let go and bow down like that was incredibly sexy.  And Dalton is Dominant, so right there, I'm excited to read about him!

These two are electrically charged in their time together. It was hot and sexy. And then add in the taboo nature of it, them being on opposite sides of the boardroom table, and it just amps it up a bit more. If you are looking for a quick one session read, I suggest giving this one a shot!

Decadent Publishing | Amazon | B&N | Amazon.uk | ARe | Coffee Time Romance | Authorgraph 

EXCERPT

She jerked away and lowered her gaze to the object of her lust.

“Place your hands behind your back and hold one wrist. It takes great trust to allow someone to bind you physically so we will play with some mental bondage for now. If you move your arms from where they are now, you will earn five swats on your bare backside. Are we clear?”

“Yes, Sir.”

“Good. How are you doing, Shannon? Are you feeling okay with everything so far?”

“I think so. Thank you for asking, Sir.”

“You’re welcome. Now, suck my cock until I come in your tempting little mouth.” He pulled her forward until the head bumped against her lips.

She swiped at the tip with her tongue to gather his taste. The salty freshness coated her taste buds and made her want more. Leaning into him, she drew in the head and eased down his length. He hit the back of her throat, but there remained more to take. She wanted all of him. She pushed forward until the glans shoved against her throat and she choked.

“Easy. If you swallow and relax as you bear down, you should be able to take the rest in.”

She advanced again, following his direction. He slipped into the upper section of her esophagus, stretching it with a tight almost burning sensation that couldn't be described as painful. More like mild discomfort. And, to her satisfaction, he fit entirely in her mouth. She retreated to gather a breath and then repeated the motion.

He groaned and drove even deeper. “God damn. Take it all,” he demanded as he pumped his hips into her face. She needed to back away, but he had his fingers tangled in her hair, holding her in place. Pinned between his crotch and his grasp he controlled her. Letting her face come up he withdrew and allowed her to inhale. “Again, baby. That felt so fucking good.”

Despite the tears streaming from her eyes, she wanted to give him the pleasure he requested. There was no time to examine why, but some need to please him had her opening her jaw and taking him again. He slid balls deep again and fucked her face with his palm on her head. Periodically he would let her up to pant, until she incorporated the suction she had once read about.

After she included the nuance, he cried out, “Oh, fuck yeah. I’m going to come, baby.”

His balls drew up against her chin as he ground into her then he pistoned in and out as he exploded in her mouth. She swallowed as much as she could, but a glop dribbled down her chin. She scooped it up and licked it off her fingers.

His breath caught.

Shit. She had moved her hands. Quick as she could, she locked the free arm behind her back where the other remained. 

“I’m torn. While watching you lap my cum off your fingers is one of the most erotic things I have ever watched, I now owe you a punishment by the terms of our agreement.” 

Author Biography and Contact Information

Sorcha Mowbray is a mild mannered office worker by day…okay, so she is actually a mouthy, opinionated, take charge kind of gal who bosses everyone around; but she definitely works in an office. At night she writes romance so hot she sets the sheets on fire! Just ask her slightly singed husband.

She is a longtime lover of historical romance, having grown up reading Johanna Lindsey and Judith McNaught. Then she discovered Thea Devine and Susan Johnson. Holy cow! Heroes and heroines could do THAT? From there, things devolved into trying her hand at writing a little smexy. Needless to say, she liked it and she hopes you do too!

sorchamowbray.com | Tweet @sorchamowbray | Sorcha’s Fan Page | Sorcha’s Goodreads | Silken Sheets & Seduction

Review: Mergers & Acquisitions by Sorcha Mowbray (18+)

Title: Mergers & Acquisitions
Series: The Edge Series
Author: Sorcha Mowbray
Published: April 2013, Decadent Publishing
Format; Ebook received for review

Shannon Pearce is an acquisitions specialist who helps businesses buy other businesses. Her latest project has left her fantasizing about her provocative client. After closing the deal successfully, she is faced with another proposition of a very personal nature.

Dalton Granger can’t get his very sexy acquisition specialist out of his head. For weeks he has been tormented by the idea of not only having her in his bed but also at his mercy. What Dom doesn’t fantasize about a sensual, submissive woman? But, can she let go long enough to relax and give him the control he craves? If she does, will she dance along the edge of passion with him and push her own boundaries or cling to the power she’s worked so long to gain?

After a high stakes meeting, Dalton invites Shannon for a drink to celebrate. She says yes, and then he informs her it will be in his room at the hotel. He says he has an offer for her, of a personal nature. He certainly means business with his offer!

“… I’ve done nothing for weeks but imagine your long legs wrapped around my hops as I drive my cock into your wet pussy until we both explode.” 

So um, heck yeah, this book definitely had some hot going on!! It got into it right away, which I totally liked. The entirety of this book wasn’t all that long, pretty much one scene. But in that scene you sure get a heck of a good time.

As soon as Dalton tells Shannon she is to call him Sir, she is instantly and eagerly compliant. I just totally want to cheer at this point, talk about taking the bull by the horns! She is normally pretty tough when it comes to work and her outside life, so to see her let go and bow down like that was incredibly sexy.  And Dalton is Dominant, so right there, I'm excited to read about him!

These two are electrically charged in their time together. It was hot and sexy. And then add in the taboo nature of it, them being on opposite sides of the boardroom table, and it just amps it up a bit more. If you are looking for a quick one session read, I suggest giving this one a shot!

Decadent Publishing | Amazon | B&N | Amazon.uk | ARe | Coffee Time Romance | Authorgraph 

EXCERPT

She jerked away and lowered her gaze to the object of her lust.

“Place your hands behind your back and hold one wrist. It takes great trust to allow someone to bind you physically so we will play with some mental bondage for now. If you move your arms from where they are now, you will earn five swats on your bare backside. Are we clear?”

“Yes, Sir.”

“Good. How are you doing, Shannon? Are you feeling okay with everything so far?”

“I think so. Thank you for asking, Sir.”

“You’re welcome. Now, suck my cock until I come in your tempting little mouth.” He pulled her forward until the head bumped against her lips.

She swiped at the tip with her tongue to gather his taste. The salty freshness coated her taste buds and made her want more. Leaning into him, she drew in the head and eased down his length. He hit the back of her throat, but there remained more to take. She wanted all of him. She pushed forward until the glans shoved against her throat and she choked.

“Easy. If you swallow and relax as you bear down, you should be able to take the rest in.”

She advanced again, following his direction. He slipped into the upper section of her esophagus, stretching it with a tight almost burning sensation that couldn't be described as painful. More like mild discomfort. And, to her satisfaction, he fit entirely in her mouth. She retreated to gather a breath and then repeated the motion.

He groaned and drove even deeper. “God damn. Take it all,” he demanded as he pumped his hips into her face. She needed to back away, but he had his fingers tangled in her hair, holding her in place. Pinned between his crotch and his grasp he controlled her. Letting her face come up he withdrew and allowed her to inhale. “Again, baby. That felt so fucking good.”

Despite the tears streaming from her eyes, she wanted to give him the pleasure he requested. There was no time to examine why, but some need to please him had her opening her jaw and taking him again. He slid balls deep again and fucked her face with his palm on her head. Periodically he would let her up to pant, until she incorporated the suction she had once read about.

After she included the nuance, he cried out, “Oh, fuck yeah. I’m going to come, baby.”

His balls drew up against her chin as he ground into her then he pistoned in and out as he exploded in her mouth. She swallowed as much as she could, but a glop dribbled down her chin. She scooped it up and licked it off her fingers.

His breath caught.

Shit. She had moved her hands. Quick as she could, she locked the free arm behind her back where the other remained. 

“I’m torn. While watching you lap my cum off your fingers is one of the most erotic things I have ever watched, I now owe you a punishment by the terms of our agreement.” 

Author Biography and Contact Information

Sorcha Mowbray is a mild mannered office worker by day…okay, so she is actually a mouthy, opinionated, take charge kind of gal who bosses everyone around; but she definitely works in an office. At night she writes romance so hot she sets the sheets on fire! Just ask her slightly singed husband.

She is a longtime lover of historical romance, having grown up reading Johanna Lindsey and Judith McNaught. Then she discovered Thea Devine and Susan Johnson. Holy cow! Heroes and heroines could do THAT? From there, things devolved into trying her hand at writing a little smexy. Needless to say, she liked it and she hopes you do too!

sorchamowbray.com | Tweet @sorchamowbray | Sorcha’s Fan Page | Sorcha’s Goodreads | Silken Sheets & Seduction

Guest Post: Eri Nelson, author of The Call From Within

The Call From Within

Eri Nelson

Dearhart Clan are a series of fast paced adult books that dabble in the world of paranormal and remain in the erotic pulse of what can only be classified as a primal fantasy. If it’s a typical romance you’re looking for you won’t find it in this series.

Eri Nelson writes in a darker world where heat and need are the forefront for a slipping existence. There is not time for all the tenderness love deserves but if you’re imprinted to another you are far beyond those mortal requirements.

Our author is driven by swift action packed intrigues that often leave you wanting more. As she writes each new book into the series the number of pages might increase but the action never lets you feel the increasing distance to the final page.

*** Guest Post *** 

Hi I am Eri Nelson and for those who do not know who that is or what that is (lol), I am an Indie Author. But not just and Indie Author, a non-traditional author who strives to create venues to help support fellow authors. Below I will include my interpretations of what an Indie author is.

INDIE AUTHOR= A writer growing, learning, developing their trade-set based on skills they are acquiring along their journey. (They are not in training or less professional. They are simply working with their own allowances of income with financial support far from the more broader publisher's stature to try to produce the best quality of work for you the reader.)

Supporting authors is not mine alone to claim. Although it is one facet, in which I am passionate about. (Cue inspirational music…lol) As an Indie, I have realized that support is the key to many things. It is with this thought that I carry on with many authors in mind. Today with you, I will be quoting just a few and their views on supporting groups.

      

“As a member of a support group, not only do I surround myself with liked-minded, caring individuals, but I gain a deeper appreciation of different genres. No matter who we are, where we live, what we write, we all have the same thing in common -- we love books. “

Madeline Sloane

http://www.MadelineSloane.com

Supportive groups are not just for Indie authors. However, Indies are a collection of authors who are growing with knowledge. We are constantly looking for the right aspects to help us along on our journeys. As avenues open for authors, many take Indie to looser terms and cross over to more self-published definitions. Still responsible for their content these authors allow for outside sources to help with their internal projects. Extending a need for remote services does not slant any views on the authors work, just allows them resources that were probably not available to them before. It these type of resources that could possibly help authors within the groups they belong to.

“Being a part of a Supportive Authors Group has lent me the ability to work with Awesome and Eccentric Minds, some who have become dear friends, whom I would have otherwise never met. Allowing me to connect with writers of varied backgrounds and across the world. It has helped to show me that my methods, while somewhat unorthodox are not a singular anomaly, but rather a random mix of the varied lifestyles that we have all encountered by knowing and sharing ourselves and each other, to raise us to new heights.”

~ S.I. Hayes

http://www.shannonihayes.wix.com/sihayes

Support groups are for the knowledgeable writer as well as the novice. They should be about showing the way and opening up new arenas in which to look on other’s work. There is no room for casting out or singling any particular author for their non-mainstream approaches.

“I'm new to the world of authors and love how the supportive author groups are teaching me. I'm not afraid to ask a question because I'm sure someone will answer or try to find the answer. The thing I love the most is true and honest support and that is what I have found.”

Solease M. Barner

http://www.soleasembarner.com

“Supportive groups give me a chance to ask questions to veteran authors, offer advice to upcoming authors, and chat with other authors who understand what I'm going through. They are a wonderful way to keep up with the trends, meet new authors, and discover new books. I thoroughly enjoy the different writing support teams I belong too.”

Andrea Buginsky 

http://www.andisrealm.blogspot.com

Writers may vary on their technique as well as aspects to writing. They may even carry chips on the internet’s unseen shoulder as to self-published or Indies in general. However, it is this mistake that cast shadows on great literature yet to be known. It is with this factor that we must create groups to not only support but also inform on what truly self-publishing and Indie means to the writing world.

“A supportive group for me, is sort of a secret garden of strength. And a diverse group keeps my prospective from closing in too tight. Not working in the secular industry you can lose your broader sensibilities quickly. Fortunately, I still have contact with former co-workers, so I'm not too cut-off. I worked previously in finance and pharmaceuticals.” 

Cora Blu

http://www.corablu.com/blog

Strengthening our knowledge is the key factor to groups that are based on garnishing support to their authors. We are power in our numbers but we are withstanding when we collectively work together in a positive nature.

“Let’s face it...an author's life is a lonely one - without support the effort would seem futile.”

Mitt Winstead

http://www.murdermysteryevilinthemirror.com/

Failings for groups vary in many faces of outside distractions. Although some of these can be avoided or understood. Controversially, it might be said or seem that our solitary roads may pull us farther from the groups help and support.

“I find that when I try to answer some of the questions in the groups, I learn things myself. I also find many of the people supportive, cheering you on with every milestone you reach.”

Victoria Adams

https://www.facebook.com/readingalcove

http://victoriasreadingalcove.wordpress.com/

The whole of authors in one standing is not just for the purpose of supporting a single individual. It is a mixture of pulling strengths to learn, grow, prosper, changing stigmas, balance, and build lasting friendships that will not just help you put a penny in your pocket but a place you will always know you’re welcome.

“Information. Support. Encouragement. and the coolest part, Friendship.”

OG Tomes

http://ogtomes.blogspot.com/

Thank you for this time with you, the reader. I hope this small posting has helped to shine a light on authors and the groups they may reside in for support.

“It is the home I never knew I required. A door that never closes or needs to be for it is always open and filled with knowledge for those who come seeking it.”

~Eri Nelson~

http://www.dearharts.com

About the Author: 

Eri Nelson born Erica Walcott is a Indie Author and the youngest of three in a family of five. Erica became Eri (airy) from her mother who called her that for as long as she could remember. The short take on her name took on a more solid base with the love of her life and husband, Jeff Nelson. Together they have been for the past twenty years. Within that time they were able to raise one daughter and endless amount of pets.

Writing is a passion for her and an abundance of never ending joy. Only one thing tops that for Eri... and that is when a reader enjoys the read...... (More on Eri) Eri Nelson is a nontraditional indie author who manages all areas of her fiction, fantasy, paranormal, action, adventure and sometimes-erotic writing. Eri handles all the groundwork of her books, even the editing. Because of this Eri strives to improve her abilities along with trying to explain to readers her far from traditional sentence structures. However, she will openly admit that typos follow her.

Join Eri and her shadowy side of writing as she takes you along to explore new desire hunger filled worlds where your mind can share in the heat of the read.

Website  Facebook  Facebook Store  Twitter

Excerpt:

~Every hair on Kristen’s arms raised as the eerie cries from their pursuers reached her ears. Seeing Owen tense told her he was gearing up to battle.

Gulping big clumps of fear down her throat, a coarse cry came from Kristen. “Is it Brinston?”

“If that’s the ex”—he spit out the ex part as if the whole knowledge that she could once bed a Shapeshifter revolted him—“then yes.”

Foot to pedal, Owen pushed the gas on the old ford to its max. There was no way the old rusted-out bucket was going to run much farther ahead of the herd of shifters hot on their tail.

Claws on the roof screeched forth like nails on a chalkboard. They were on them, and it was a matter of the time before the truck would be thrown to the side of the road.

A figure close to the look of a rhino came in so fast that it crashed into the driver’s side of the Ford, knocking the panels inward. Kristen screamed in horror with the sight of the blood running down Owen’s left side. Now she was pissed off; how dare they touch him? An instant reflection of possessiveness’s of him was clearing the way for her rage as she looked to the floor of the cab for a weapon. Her fingers felt their way to something metallic. When lifting her prize, she found herself quite proud to be gripping a grease-covered crowbar. However, just as her courage was lifted by the odd shaped metal weapon, the large plate-protected creature once again drove into their vehicle, lifting it up off it’s axles. With one heave of its mighty head, it sent them flying over the edge of the road. Rolling repeatedly, they went, stopping only when they collided with a long-standing grand pine.

Bloodied and crash-ridden, the two found they were looking at each other. Owen, gazing on at Kristen clutching a blackened crowbar, said, “I don’t suppose if I asked you to stay here you would listen?”

“Not like hell,” she replied. If he were going out there, then so was she. Losing him was not an option!

Thanks for stopping by everyone!  I hope you enjoyed the guest post and excerpt.  Be sure to check back next month when I have a review for The Call From Within by Eri Nelson!

*Liz

Guest Post: Eri Nelson, author of The Call From Within

The Call From Within

Eri Nelson

Dearhart Clan are a series of fast paced adult books that dabble in the world of paranormal and remain in the erotic pulse of what can only be classified as a primal fantasy. If it’s a typical romance you’re looking for you won’t find it in this series.

Eri Nelson writes in a darker world where heat and need are the forefront for a slipping existence. There is not time for all the tenderness love deserves but if you’re imprinted to another you are far beyond those mortal requirements.

Our author is driven by swift action packed intrigues that often leave you wanting more. As she writes each new book into the series the number of pages might increase but the action never lets you feel the increasing distance to the final page.

*** Guest Post *** 

Hi I am Eri Nelson and for those who do not know who that is or what that is (lol), I am an Indie Author. But not just and Indie Author, a non-traditional author who strives to create venues to help support fellow authors. Below I will include my interpretations of what an Indie author is.

INDIE AUTHOR= A writer growing, learning, developing their trade-set based on skills they are acquiring along their journey. (They are not in training or less professional. They are simply working with their own allowances of income with financial support far from the more broader publisher's stature to try to produce the best quality of work for you the reader.)

Supporting authors is not mine alone to claim. Although it is one facet, in which I am passionate about. (Cue inspirational music…lol) As an Indie, I have realized that support is the key to many things. It is with this thought that I carry on with many authors in mind. Today with you, I will be quoting just a few and their views on supporting groups.

      

Review: Velocity by Cassandra Carr

Title: Velocity
Series: Buckin' Bullriders #4
Author: Cassandra Carr
Published: March 2013, Ellora's Cave
Format: Ebook provided for review

Paolo D’Allesandro has been living in his older brother Marco’s shadow. But he’s getting older now and realizing he and Marco don’t want the same things. He’s not sure what his next step is, but knows he needs to quit riding to figure it out.

Savannah Harrington is a grad student working on a thesis about adrenaline junkies, and she’s joined the bull riders’ tour to study the men and their motivation to willingly take part in a dangerous sport. She meets Paolo and both feel an instant connection. She can’t stay away from the sexy Italian and his mind-numbing skills in the bedroom, but knows the relationship can’t last.

Both wish their circumstances were different, but Paolo doesn’t think he has anything to offer Savannah, and Savannah doesn’t want to pressure Paolo into another life decision that will make someone else happy, but not fulfill him. As her time to go back to school draws closer, they need to figure out how to get their highest score yet—in the game of love.

Somehow I’ve managed to skip book three in the Buckin Bullriders series. So I will have a review for that coming up in the next several weeks. That’s Marco’s book, and definitely not one to miss! But this week I had an interview with Cassandra Carr for Velocity, and now here is my review for Paolo’s book.



Before I started this book I wasn’t sure how I was going to like Paolo. I mean, sure, the cover is awesome, and the model is perfection. But an Italian bullrider? Do they even exist? I’m sure they must, but it’s just not what I think of when I think of my favorite sexy cowboys. And then I had “met” Marco in previous books of this series, and he always struck me as cocky. So my bar was not as high as it had been for Conner or Brady.

Stupid, stupid Liz.

I read this book in one night. It was a nonstop reading marathon. I should have known better.

Paolo is Marco’s younger brother, and he followed Marco to the states when he was a teen. Now he is 23, and not entirely sure where is future will be. I found Paolo to be this sweet and caring guy. He wasn’t shy, but he wasn’t cocky. He has a quietness to him that really draws you to him. But then on top of that he is young and sexy, and Italian – so he’s got the accent all locked up. And he is seductive in the way he acts and speaks, especially when he meets Savannah.

What was she doing having careless flings with cowboys when she should be looking for someone to settle down with?

Paolo reached for her hand and smiled at her, and she knew why she was with him.

He made her happy.

Savannah has come to the bullriding circuit because she is writing her college thesis on adrenalin junkies. She’s not looking for romance, but when Paolo starts showing interest she thinks she may as well go for it and have a tour fling. She’s no “buckle bunny”, a term the riders use for bull riding groupies, but no one said fun isn’t allowed! I liked her. Savannah struck me as intelligent and caring. There were times I felt she might be a little pushy, but it’s only because she grew to quickly care for Paolo.  She also was generous and a great addition to the Buckin' Bullriders family.

To me, this story was about romance, hope, possibility and new beginnings. And there was of course some sexy action between Paolo and Savannah that positively made my kindle sweat. I thought this was a fantastic pairing between the two characters, they balanced each other perfectly. Where one was nervous and anxious, one was brave and explorative. When one would get scared about the status of their burgeoning relationship, the other was there to hold on tight.

If you are a fan of Cassandra, this is definitely a book to read as soon as you can. She definitely held on for the whole 8 seconds in this book, and I’m positive you will love it as much as I did.

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Cold As Ice

Impact

Take Me At The Ballgame 

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Loaded Question

Public Displays of Eroticism

Double Vision

Master Class

A Spanking Good Time

Guest Post - Shouldve' Known Better
Interview with Cassandra for Velocity

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I'm including this banner because I technically should have posted this review with the interview, but I wasn't quite happy with how I wrote it - it needed tweaking.  Plus the post would have been crazy long.  Thanks for coming by!

Review: Velocity by Cassandra Carr

Title: Velocity
Series: Buckin' Bullriders #4
Author: Cassandra Carr
Published: March 2013, Ellora's Cave
Format: Ebook provided for review

Paolo D’Allesandro has been living in his older brother Marco’s shadow. But he’s getting older now and realizing he and Marco don’t want the same things. He’s not sure what his next step is, but knows he needs to quit riding to figure it out.

Savannah Harrington is a grad student working on a thesis about adrenaline junkies, and she’s joined the bull riders’ tour to study the men and their motivation to willingly take part in a dangerous sport. She meets Paolo and both feel an instant connection. She can’t stay away from the sexy Italian and his mind-numbing skills in the bedroom, but knows the relationship can’t last.

Both wish their circumstances were different, but Paolo doesn’t think he has anything to offer Savannah, and Savannah doesn’t want to pressure Paolo into another life decision that will make someone else happy, but not fulfill him. As her time to go back to school draws closer, they need to figure out how to get their highest score yet—in the game of love.

Somehow I’ve managed to skip book three in the Buckin Bullriders series. So I will have a review for that coming up in the next several weeks. That’s Marco’s book, and definitely not one to miss! But this week I had an interview with Cassandra Carr for Velocity, and now here is my review for Paolo’s book.

Interview with Cassandra Carr, author of Velocity (Buckin Bull Riders #4)

Velocity

Cassandra Carr

Paolo D’Allesandro has been living in his older brother Marco’s shadow. But he’s getting older now and realizing he and Marco don’t want the same things. He’s not sure what his next step is, but knows he needs to quit riding to figure it out.

Savannah Harrington is a grad student working on a thesis about adrenaline junkies, and she’s joined the bull riders’ tour to study the men and their motivation to willingly take part in a dangerous sport. She meets Paolo and both feel an instant connection. She can’t stay away from the sexy Italian and his mind-numbing skills in the bedroom, but knows the relationship can’t last.

Both wish their circumstances were different, but Paolo doesn’t think he has anything to offer Savannah, and Savannah doesn’t want to pressure Paolo into another life decision that will make someone else happy, but not fulfill him. As her time to go back to school draws closer, they need to figure out how to get their highest score yet—in the game of love.

Hey everyone!!  I'm so glad you are all here for this today - I have an interview with Cassandra Carr!!  Anyone who has followed me, knows I'm a fan.  And I especially love her Buckin' Bullriders series.  Have you read it?  OMG.  You must!!!  So check out the interview, and come back later for my review of Velocity, which is book FOUR in the series! 

***Interview*** 

Hi Cassandra!  This is the first time I’ve had you over for an interview, out of all the reviews.  I must say, I’m pretty excited!  Welcome to Fictional Candy!

  

So this tour is for Velocity, the fourth book in your Buckin’ Bullriders series.  Can you tell our readers today a bit about it?

Yes, Velocity is book four in the series, and centers around Italian bull rider Paolo. Paolo’s brother Marco was the focus of the third book, Momentum. This book is a little different, as Paolo has decided bull riding is not for him. That causes a big problem, though – what will he do now? Can he strike out on his own and leave his brother, who’s been his rock since they came to America, behind? Paolo meets Savannah, a graduate student studying adrenaline junkies, and Savannah sets out to help Paolo discover his true calling in life. Of course, since it’s one of my books there’s a lot of sex along the way. ;-)

The cover for Velocity is one of my favorites!!!  Who is that guy and how did you get him on your cover?

Heh. I don’t blame you. “That guy” is Ellora’s Cave Caveman David. I met him at EC’s Romanticon conference last October while I was writing Velocity. I had already written the physical description of Paolo, and when I saw David for the first time across a crowded room I could’ve sworn Paolo had just walked in. When it came time for my cover art request, I asked for David specifically and got him!

Cassandra, what is the best thing about being an author?

I can only pick one thing? Hmmmm. I think the fact I work for myself, work when I can, work from home and in whatever clothes I want. I also don’t have to worry about commuting, micromanaging bosses and cranky coworkers. Of course, I don’t get paid vacation or a 401k, but you have to make sacrifices somewhere.

And how did you become an author?

Funny enough, by accident. I was writing hockey fanfic, and my mom, who’s also a writer (Cynthia Racette) suggested I fictionalize the story and send it to some publishers. I did query that book, but it was rejected so I decided to write another one. I sold that book, Talk to Me, as my debut novel. And the book that got rejected? Should’ve Known Better, which published through Twenty or Less Press in early April.

If someone has never read your books before, where would you recommend they start?

I guess that depends on what they’re looking for. If they want a m/f erotic contemporary, Talk to Me. A ménage, Head Games. Bull riders – Impact; hockey players – any number of them including Talk to Me, the entire Buffalo Intimidators series, See the Light, or Should’ve Known Better. BDSM, Caught or Master Class. So yeah, a totally unhelpful answer there. Sorry about that. :-P

Pretend you are single – which of your characters do you want to go on a date with, and what will you do?

Sebastian from Should’ve Known Better. Adore him. What would I do besides climbing his incredible body like a mountaineer? Ummm, go somewhere that would encourage him to speak French. YUM.

What’s life like for you when you aren’t writing?

Busy! I have a four-year-old and only part-time childcare. For instance, right now my daughter is playing on the couch about two feet from me as she watches Doc McStuffins. Both my parents and my hubs’ parents live in town, along with most of hubs’ family, so we do a lot of stuff with them. I also watch hockey, go out when I can, garden…

Anyone who knows you knows you are into hockey.  How did that love start?  Care to give a shout out to your favorite team? J

It started when I was a kid. My parents used to take us to Broome Dusters games (I’m from Binghamton NY, which is now home to the AHL Binghamton Senators). When I moved up to the Buffalo area to go to the University at Buffalo, I became a Buffalo Sabres fan. I still am today, though the organization is going through some upheaval, not all of which I agree with, like trading away my favorite player, Jason Pominville. But I’ve hung in with them since 1994 and don’t intend to stop now.

If you could not write books anymore, which job do you think you would like best (if money were no concern)?

I actually did like the Evil Day Job I had in 2009 and early 2010. I was doing media relations for a cancer hospital (one where I had treatment for cancer in 1997). It was tremendously rewarding to help get the word out about what a great place it was.

And one last question – are there going to be any more in the Buckin’ Bullriders series? (please say yes!!!)

There will be at least one more BBR book, Inertia. That being said, though, I have no idea when I’ll have enough time to write it. I would not expect it to release until the end of 2013, and that might be optimistic. I have a LOT of projects.

Thanks Cassandra, it’s been my pleasure having you with me today!

Previous Posts 

Cold As Ice

Impact

Take Me At The Ballgame 

Collision

Loaded Question

Public Displays of Eroticism

Double Vision

Master Class

A Spanking Good Time

Guest Post - Shouldve' Known Better

Subscribe to Cassandra's Newsletter

Follow Cassandra

Website

Twitter

Facebook

Goodreads