Sunday 29 March 2015

Review: Malevolent Series: The Darkness Series - Book One by Cassia Brightmore @cassiabr8tmore



Book: Malevolent
Series: The Darkness Series - Book One
                                             Author: Cassia Brightmore
Release Date: March 2nd, 2015


SYNOPSIS
Darkness has a seductive power, a delicious energy that sinks its claws in deep. Once the devil has a hold of you, true malevolence is born. 

Sheriff Brady James has sworn to protect the small town of Durham Heights, his current priority to ruthlessly hunt a sadistic killer on the loose. With lives at stake, his focus is split between two beautiful women - one dark, one light. The clock is ticking, the threat palpable; crawling closer at every turn. Once death has you in its sights, there is no escape.


Pain. Suffering. Lives shattered and broken. In the fight of good against evil, who will survive? 



This is the first book in the Darkness series, a wishing evil upon others novel that can be read as a standalone.



Due to mature content and violent situations, this book is recommended for readers 18 years and up.

Purchase Links: 
Amazon US: http://amzn.to/17JiRqZ
Amazon AU: http://goo.gl/U4Cv8A




Review by Mazzy Boss Lady


When I first heard about this book, I had to get my hands on a copy. I really wasn't disappointed with this read. From the first page you are thrown straight in to the book. Each page captivates you and you are wanting to carry on reading right through to the end.

A book that is dark and twisted and has you guessing right until the end, a story of kidnappings, rape and torture, a book not for the faint hearted. We meet Gwyn who is running away from her own demons where she decides to stop in a quiet quaint town, but this town has it's own dark secrets. Sheriff Brady, also has his own dark past and horrors that haunt him. They both meet and the attraction is instant, but something or someone doesn't want them to be together.

This is must read for all fans of dark reads, a book that will have you hooked from the first page.

You wouldn't believe that this is a book by a debut author, but it is, this author has a talent that shouldn't be missed.

*********************************************************************************************
Review by Nadia Chief Obsessive Pimpette
~*~ Obsessed by Books arc given in exchange for an honest review ~*~

"He was no one's salvation. He was not her savior. The devil himself walked in him and when they were through with her, her soul will be consumed,condemned, damned.
I am malevolent."

Beginning with the kidnap, rape, torture and murder of a beautiful young woman Malevolent is set in a small town in America. A close knit community where every one knows everyone's news before they themselves do. The horrific murder sets the whole town on edge and soon they realise darkness is lurking, stalking them as another body is found.

With a serial killer loose in his town Sheriff Brady has his hands full. Personally avoiding his past mistakes in the form of Mila, an easy lay that he now can't shake and the truth of why he ran to the small town, Brady immerses himself in the investigation. Brady is a strong, sexy alpha male with the right mix of arrogance and in control attitude that makes your mouth water...and of course he looks damn fine in his uniform. With his job taking priority and feeling like time is running out before more pile up, a beautiful stranger turns his head...

Gwyn is running...from her past, from a man that almost killed her. Striving to be lost yet found Gwyn is hoping for a fresh start in the town. Instantly connecting with Joan the owner of the local diner she lands herself a place to call home and a job. Joan is a kind hearted soul who instantly recognises the broken edges of Gwyn, never pushing but offering a safe refuge. Joan is a lovely warm character and a light soul in a town shrouded in darkness.

Brady and Gwyn soon gravitate towards one another, the attraction instant and undeniable. The sexual tension builds between them and the heat coming from them could start a forest fire! Brady takes control and demands a date...Gwyn is a little spit fire and he just builds her ire higher and higher. Relishing the banter between them Brady encourages her open and honest approach. Together they heal the broken parts of their souls, finding redemption and peace in each other's arms.

Whilst they are lost in each other Malevolent has other plans.. stalking, hunting and seeking to destroy for pleasure...the plot is dark. It's twisty and it's no fairy tale story. No magic wand to restore peace and turn back time. People die ugly, hearts are broken and left to suffer in their loss. This is a standalone debut novel and I am simply blown away. It flows so well, the prologue sinks it's sharp pointed teeth in and won't let you go until you have read the last page. Chapter one exposes you to the harsh reality of the nature of the evil in the story yet this is balanced by some great characters. Hailey, a teacher and Cop's wife befriends Gwyn and provides much needed light relief. Joan is our motherly figure looking out for our characters. Sam another cop is a lovable good natured soul. Mila is a self absorbed woman...the queen bitch. The characters are all well written with depth and facets that engage you as a reader. And the big reveal left me breathless...but no hints otherwise it will ruin the surprise! I loved how the evil wasn't typical...wasn't abused or forced. Driven by need and lust nothing more, it was a refreshingly different dark twist.

It is a fantastic five star read.
 







Excerpt
Looking into his eyes, she was terrified by what she saw there.  There was no soul in him, he truly was a man with no morals, no compassion.  His grin was filled with malice,  there was no mistaking his intentions.  Why the hell had she been so stupid to fall for his act?  Fuck Hailey, one smile.  One smile from him and look where it got you.  Strung up on a hook like a motherfucking piece of meat!

“Darlin, just look at you.  Quite the perfect picture you make. Why, you look like a feast.  My feast.”  At his words, Hailey froze, halting in her attempts to swing herself off the hook her bounds hands were attached to.

“Feast?  I’m not your fucking feast, you asshole!  Let me down from here,” her protests fell on deaf ears. Ignoring her pleas, he slowly approached.

Leaning in close, he brought his nose within an inch of hers.  Close enough to touch, however he just breathed in her scent, staring into her eyes menacingly.  “Get away from me, you prick.  If you touch me, I swear, I’ll reach down your throat grab your balls and yank them up through your nose.  Do. Not. Touch. Me!”  Jerking away, she glared at him with fire in her eyes.  He looked amused by her outburst, not the least bit frightened or intimidated.



“Sugar, there’s an expression...maybe you’ve heard it.  Makes your blood run cold.  You know, I’ve been on a mission, trying to find cold blood that runs out from a warm body.” Frowning, he turned the knife over in his hands, studying the blade.  “Unfortunately, I haven’t had much luck.  But you,” he pointed at her with the knife. “You might be the one I’ve been looking for. Let’s find out shall we?”




ABOUT THE AUTHOR


Cassia Brightmore is a new indie author.  Her debut novel, Malevolent is the first book in the Darkness Series and can be read as a standalone.  

Writing has always been a passion of hers and publishing her first novel is truly a dream come true. She enjoys writing dark stories that she hopes will thrill the reader.

Cassia lives in Grimsby, Canada with her two furbabies, Harley and Molly.

CONNECT WITH CASSIA 


Twitter: @cassiabr8tmore






Review: Dirty Blood by Heather Hildenbrand @HeatherHildenbr



I killed a girl last night. I did it with my bare hands and an old piece of pipe I found lying next to the dumpster. But that’s not the part that got me. The part that scared me, the part I can’t seem to wrap my head around and still has me reeling, was that when she charged me, her body shifted – and then she was a wolf. All snapping teeth and extended claws. But by the time I stood over her lifeless body, she was a girl again. That’s about the time I went into shock… And that was the moment he showed up.

Now, all I can do is accept the truths that are staring me in the face. One, Werewolves do exist. And Two, I was born to kill them.

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Review by Ally Obsessive One Clicker

ARC provided by Obsessed by Books for an honest review

I enjoyed read this young adult paranormal read. In this book you get supernatural elements, love, mystery and suspense all in one package. I was hooked on page one. This novel is about werewolves and hunters. Actions starts right off and continues through out which I like it keeps you glued to the pages and won't let you go.

Tara is a typical girl who gets mixed up in the supernatural world that she never knew existed. She struggles trying to find her place in the supernatural world.
Wes who has secrets of his own and is also a hot guy.

Loved the supernatural elements and the action in this book. Looking forward to reading the next one in the series.


Heather Hildenbrand was born and raised in a small town in northern Virginia where she was homeschooled through high school. Since 2011, she’s published more than eight YA & NA novels including the bestselling Dirty Blood series. She splits her time between coastal Virginia and the island of Guam and loves having a mobile career and outrageous lifestyle of living in two places.

Heather is also a publishing and success coach bent on equipping and educating artists who call themselves authors. She loves teaching fellow writers how to create the same freedom-based lifestyle she enjoys. For more information visit www.phoenixauthorink.com and find out how to create your own OutRAGEous Life.

You can find out more about Heather and her books at www.heatherhildenbrand.blogspot.com

For more information on my books, release dates, or just general stalker-material, um, I mean FAN material, visit my website. I love hearing from readers! 





Just Desserts by Kelly Collins Promotional Tour @kcollinsauthor



Just Dessert (Decadent #1)
by Kelly Collins 


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Synopsis

Pure hearted Katarina Cross has a simple life plan; finish school and find a job. Everything is on track until Damon Noble walks onto the scene. He’s the sweetest confection she has ever laid eyes on.

Standing in for a friend who runs an escort service, Kat agrees to accompany one man for one night. How hard could it be? All I have to do is smile and look pretty.

After his last girlfriend left a bad taste in his mouth for commitment, Damon nixes the idea of a relationship. He simply orders and pays for what he needs. Why ask for the full menu when you can just order dessert?

A chance meeting, a book club and a penchant for dessert will change everything.

"Life is uncertain. Eat dessert first."
-Ernestine Ulmer-


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Author's Bio

Kelly Collins lives in Colorado with her husband, James. She’s the proud mother of three young adults. They are her greatest accomplishment.

Reading has always been a passion. That passion turned into a career after she took a flight to New York and asked a what if question. That question turned into her first book, Tempo.

She has a passion for her family, a love of lemondrop martinis and is known to stop for anything shiny. She love hockey, gerbera 

daisies and standing in front of her fireplace until she nearly combusts. 

Armed with a martini and her laptop, Kelly loves nothing more than to create a world that any woman would want to explore. 

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Release Blitz: Declan by Ava Manello @avamanello

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Book: Declan
Series: Wounded Heroes #1
Genre: Military/Suspense Romance
Author: Ava Manello
Cover: Margreet Assleburgs
Hosted by:Francessca’s Romance Reviews

Synopsis

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War almost destroyed them, but they survived thanks to their brother in arms Declan.

Coming home wasn't as sweet as they'd hoped, lives had moved on without them. For one it was all too much.

United by grief and angered by injustice the Wounded Heroes vow to always be there for each other.

Little do they know that's going to come sooner rather than later.

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Excerpt

The touch of my fingers sends a small tremor through her. I try to keep the massage firm, yet tender. I can already see some of the tension leaving her body. She groans as I knead the hard knot at the base of her neck. This past week has been a living nightmare for all of us, but especially her and the stress has really knotted her neck and shoulders.

My hands leave her skin for a moment as I reach for more body lotion. She moans in protest. There’s a delicate hint of coconut in the air as I warm it in my hands before applying it at the base of her spine.

I knead up and down her back, leaving a trail of warmth where I’ve passed. I can feel my cock twitching in my tight boxer briefs, begging to be let loose. It’s been too long since I allowed myself that particular pleasure. After everything that’s happened I wasn’t sure it would show interest in sex again, I’m pleased that it is, but I can’t. Not here. Not now.

Georgia is laying face down underneath me, dressed only in skimpy briefs so that I can massage her back. My legs are astride hers and I’m pretty sure she can feel my cock pushing against her. She says nothing though.

How the fuck did I find myself here? On this bed and in this position? This is my friend’s widow for fucks sake. I need to show him some respect. I need to remember the man that he was, not the shell he had become. He sank so low that there was no coming back. That’s why I’m here. We buried him today, so the last place I should be right now is in his widow’s bed.

I couldn’t ignore Georgia’s scream though as she’d woken from a nightmare, or the fat tears rolling down her face. She’s too young to be a widow; she’s not even forty. She has her whole life ahead of her. I’d consoled her by drawing her into my arms, sitting on the edge of the bed and pulling her close. She’d whimpered when my hand touched her back. The downside of living with Max for these past few months had been the abuse. She may have outgrown most of the bruises but the residual pain was still there.

I’d offered her a back rub in my innocence, and that’s how I came to find myself here now, sitting on top of her and desperately begging my cock to go back into its usual state of stupor.

There’s something sensuous about caressing a woman’s skin, and it’s turning me on. As awful as it sounds it helps that I can’t see Georgia’s face. I couldn’t do this if I looked her in the eye. I need to just pretend she’s some anonymous stranger if I’ve any chance of getting through the rest of this night.

Georgia moans as I release a particularly deep knot in her shoulder, but it sounds more like a moan of passion than relief.

“Declan,” she pleads. “I need you. I need this.” She whimpers.

“I can’t.” I whisper back. “I can’t do it to Max.” I apologise.

“Fuck Max.” She hisses. “He didn’t give a shit about either of us these past few months. I need this.” She pauses. “And from the feel of your cock digging into my ass you need it too.” She reasons.

She’s right. I do need it. But I can’t.

“I can’t look you in the eye.” I apologise.

“Then don’t.” She reasons. She reaches down behind her, pulling her almost non-existent underwear down and raising her ass slightly. I can see her glistening pussy. She’s wet for me and I know for sure that my cock is hard for her.

I dismiss the guilt from my mind and release myself from my boxer shorts. Without allowing myself time to think about it I push into her. Fuck! That feels so good. It feels so tight and deep. I pause for a moment just enjoying the sensation, and Georgia lets out a loud groan of satisfaction.

“That feels fucking amazing.” She almost purrs.

Slowly I move in and out of her, each time it feels like I’ve gone deeper than the last. Her legs are trapped together between mine by her shoved down underwear and her ass is gripping tightly to my cock as I move in and out.

She moves a hand to caress my leg. I stop her by holding her arms down. From the satisfied moans she’s making, it’s clear she likes that. Her face is almost hidden in the mattress, the pillow already tossed aside. She’s got short hair, I want to grab hold of it and pull her head back each time I push into her, but it’s too short for that. It’s just long enough to hide her face, and that’s probably a good thing. If I saw her face right now I suspect my cock would deflate faster than a popped balloon.

The only sounds in the room are the slap of flesh against flesh as my movements become stronger as do our mutual groans of pleasure. I slap her ass sharply, and when she doesn’t protest I do it again. She’s pushing her ass back up against me, silently begging for more. I give it to her.

That’s when it all goes to shit. I’m having the best sex I’ve had in months, fuck it I’m having the only sex I’ve had in months, when I hear it.

A car backfires outside and I lose it. Suddenly I’m not in this suburban bedroom; I’m back in Afghanistan the day it happened. I can feel the heat, taste the sand in my mouth, and hear the screams of the other guys.

I snap out of it, just in time. My hands are round Georgia’s neck and I’m strangling her. She can barely breathe, let alone make a sound and her face is going a shade of purple. I release my hands quickly.

Georgia draws in a deep gulping breath of air before collapsing back down to the mattress and taking shallow breaths.

“What the fuck!” She croaks, her voice barely there and raspy.

What do I say; how the fuck do I explain the nightmare that I live constantly? I can’t. Instead I do the most dick move possible. I pull out of her and rush from the room without explanation.

Within minutes my bag is packed and I’m gone. Driving to an unknown destination in the dark of the night. I didn’t even say I was sorry.

I’m not sure where to go so I just drive. I’m not fit to be around normal people. Something broke in me out in Afghanistan, and I’m not sure I can ever be mended.

So I drive, and wait to see where the road takes me.

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Purchase Links

Amazon UK
Amazon USA
Amazon CA
Amazon AU
Google Play
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KOBO
Nook

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About The Author

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Passionate reader, blogger, publisher, and author. I love nothing more than helping other Indie authors publish their books be that reviewing, beta reading, formatting or proofreading,

I love erotic suspense that's well written and engages the reader, and I love promoting the heck out of it over on my book blog.

I'm a mother, but most of all I'm me!


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Other Books by Ava

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Strip Teaser
Naked Nights #1

Purchase Link


Barnes & Noble
Kobo
Amazon UK
Amazon USA

Strip Back
Naked Nights #0.5

Purchase Links


Amazon CA
Amazon AU
Amazon UK
Amazon USA

The Black Basque

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Purchases Link


Amazon UK
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The Non Adventures of Alice the erotic author

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Amazon UK
Amazon USA

Severed Series

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Severed Angel
Severed MC #1

Purchase Links


Amazon UK
Amazon USA
KOBO
Barnes & Noble
iTunes

Carnal Desire
Severed MC #2

Purchase Links


Amazon UK
Amazon USA
KOBO
Barnes & Noble
iTunes

Severed Justice
Severed MC #3

Purchase Links


Amazon UK
Amazon USA
KOBO
Barnes & Noble
iTunes

Carnal Persuasion
Severed MC #4

PURCHASE LINKS


Amazon UK
Amazon USA
iTunes
KOBO
Barnes & Noble


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Review by Emma Mistress of all Dark & Twisted

Declan, book 1 in the Wounded Heroes series by Ava Manello, follows ex Australian Special Air Regiment Corporal Declan Delaney. You may recall this character from Carnal Persuasion the 4th book by Ava and K T Fisher and I for one was ecstatic to get this book about this illusive, mysterious character. He is a damaged man, his time served for his country may have ended but his mind is still battling the demons left within as he struggles with life out of the service along with his fellow comrades.

He and his men faced horrendous ordeals whilst in service and each find their own way of coping. But, when events unfold beyond his control, as their Corporal he takes it as a failing and Declan realises he needs to take a road trip to decide what to do next with his life. He ends up in Severed and this is where the time frames overlap with Carnal Persuasion but are told from Declan's pov where he is trying to get a fresh start by running his own bar and renovating it. In Declan's life though danger and chaos follow him at every turn. When Severed MC problems land at his door he decides to help, his need to protect is inbuilt and engrained, so with his 'contacts' and background knowledge from the military he's the perfect man to help. The question is will it cost him more than he thought as he has the beginnings of something forming with Holly; The Prez's niece from Severed MC who knows full well about loss and the dangers of getting embroiled in MC issues.

Can Declan get the fresh start he needs to bring him back to himself after months of fighting his inner torment or will helping the Severed and Carnal MC with his brothers in arms be a step too close into familiar territory and cost them all dearly again??

This book handles the topic of PTSD brilliantly, it was clearly researched and illustrates how it's not just the servicemen who are effected but their family's too. I always enjoy reading the Severed series with hot bikers and their exploits in Australia and now Ava has brought in Army men to add to the mix via Declan and his backstory which had me hooked from the truly gripping first page and I hope we get plenty more from Declan and his Wounded Heroes.

*** I was lucky enough to beta read this book for Ava Manello ***