Engraved by Jayne Fresina

Title: Engraved

Author: Jayne Fresina

Sub-Genre(s): Historical, Mystery, Romance

Publisher: Evernight Publishing 

Publication Date: March 21, 2011

ISBN #: B004TBD6NE

Format: eBook from Author

Reviewer: Toni

Rating: 5 Cups

Blurb:*

When Adam Blackwood first lays eyes on the woman of his lusty fantasies, he’s a young man with too much arrogance and not enough self-control. She rejects his clumsy advances and deeply wounds his pride. Six years later the wound remains, but other things have changed. He’s grown up. She’s widowed and alone. And this time, she wants something from him.

Evangeline always knew Adam was dangerous. He aroused emotions and desires she’d learned to suppress. But now he’s back with a proposition and a secret from her past. A little blackmail is hardly a gentlemanly method of getting her into bed, but what else can she expect from a Blackwood?

Perhaps, for just one night, she’ll give him what he wants and indulge her own secret passion. Providing they never see one another again, what harm can it do?

Review:
MORE – MORE – MORE

That is what I want. Engraved is an amazing story and I can’t wait to get the rest of the series and read them all (likely in one sitting).

I have a feeling this is how it really was in the past. Not the illusion of propriety and manners, but raw sensuality and passion. Well at least I can dream.

Evangeline is a beauty and caught Adam Blackwood’s eye as a young man. He always got what he wanted and he wanted her. He didn’t care that she was married and older than him. Evangeline didn’t waste any time turning this young arrogant man down.

Evangeline is an American that has been married twice, both horribly boring and unfulfilling marriages. Now widowed yet again, she has a problem. She is clairvoyant and has just seen the death of her old employer, Randolph Blackwood. The same employer that painted a nude of her ten years ago and the same employer whose son has always been in the back of her mind.

Adam Blackwood is livid. The prim and proper woman, who turned down his advances years ago, posed nude for his father. His father made it clear in his will that Adam had to return the portrait to the woman and he plans to. He also he plans to extract payment, in the form of sex.

Evangeline and Adam’s one night together is scorching and raw. I loved their chemistry together. Their experience allowed them to see a glimpse of the other person and it wasn’t what they perceived. Each went into their agreement having rigid notions of the other and they were blown away by the truth and their feelings. Their road to eventual bliss was well written and I enjoyed their journey. What a fun trip this has been!

I highly recommend Engraved. It is perfectly steamy and well paced. Ms. Fresina had me captivated right from the beginning and the only reason I didn’t finish it in one sitting is because it was 3am and I wanted to enjoy the last half of the book with a clear head. She has made me a fan and I am truly looking forward to reading the remaining Blackwood brother’s eventual downfalls. *Evil Grin*


Available at:
Amazon (Kindle Edition)
Barnes & Noble (Nook book)


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*Blurb Courtesy of Amazon

**Disclaimer: This book has been provided to Coffee Beans & Love Scenes Reviews free of charge by the author. No money has been exchanged for the review of this eBook. This review reflects the opinion of the individual reviewer and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the other C&R reviewers or this blog’s administrator/editor.

My Blood Runs Blue by Stacy Eaton

Title: My Blood Runs Blue

Author: Stacy Eaton

Sub-Genre(s): Contemporary, Vampire

Publisher: Outskirts Press

Publication Date: April 11, 2011

ISBN #: 978-1432769284

Format: eBook from Author

Reviewer: Toni

Rating: 4 Cups

Blurb:*

Officer Kristin Greene has always felt that something was missing from her life. Although her job with the Fawn Hollow Township Police Department keeps her busy, she still feels like there is something else out there for her. 

She soon finds herself investigating a homicide where a young woman has had her throat ripped out. When she has to give the death notification to the family, her investigative nature comes out fast and strong when the parents seem too accepting of their daughter's death and make comments that just don't fit. 

When the family requests the assistance of the VMF Securities, Kristin is confused that they would think a security company could assist with the murder investigation. When Julian and Alexander arrive she quickly finds herself being pulled into a love triangle that has been going on longer then she has been alive. Why do they look at here as if they know her? And why do they keep talking about Calista? 

Join Kirstin as she fights to learn the truth about the recent murder, the seductive and blood drinking men that have entered into her life and the rear truth about herself.

Review:
My Blood Runs Blue is a fascinating take on the old lover’s triangle tale.

Kristin Greene didn’t feel quite whole. Moving through life as a cop and just existing day to day. She never felt fulfilled, like something was missing. Things change fast and drastically when she meets Julian and Alexander. Drawn to them fiercely, with a hunger she has never experienced before. Her life is now turned upside down with startling new revelations and a reality she never knew existed.

Julian and Alexander used to be best friends until one night everything changed. Thirty-five years ago their lives were destroyed and they have been on a quest to revenge the death of a loved one ever since. The killer has started to kill again with a vengeance and they are bound and determined to end his killing rampage. Once each of them set their eyes upon Kristin their desire to protect and possess is multiplied, but this time they are going to protect the person she resembles. They are also going to let her chose between them. Can either of them survive her choice?

I really loved this take on the vampire lore. It was a mix between born vampires and made vampires. I hope in future books she delves more into the history of their existence. I also enjoyed that her male protagonists were not overly alpha. They were strong yet weak. I really felt like Kristin had a hard choice to make between the two men. I could see amazing values in both of them. I did not envy the choice she had to make.

My Blood Runs Blue is a very distinctive and remarkable story. I was captured by the narrative, the characters were engaging and entertaining, and the outcome was shocking. I couldn’t put the book down. I was enchanted from the very first page.

I want to point out that Ms. Eaton’s writing style is very unique. The point of view of the story changed each chapter, sometimes repeating a prior scene describing the new character’s outlook on the prior chapter. So there is a lot of repetitive monolog. It did take some getting used to for me.

My Blood Runs Blue has a great plot and intriguing characters. Ms. Eaton has a wonderful story to tell and I’m looking forward to reading about Kristin and her adventures into her whole new world.


Available at:
Amazon (Kindle Edition)
Barnes & Noble (Nook book)


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*Blurb Courtesy of Amazon

**Disclaimer: This book has been provided to Coffee Beans & Love Scenes Reviews free of charge by the author. No money has been exchanged for the review of this eBook. This review reflects the opinion of the individual reviewer and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the other C&R reviewers or this blog’s administrator/editor.

Fear of Darkness by Honoria Ravena

Title: Fear of Darkness

Author: Honoria Ravena

Sub-Genre(s): Erotic contemporary romance, Vampires

Publisher: Breathless Press

Publication Date: July 15, 2011

ISBN #: B005D1HR2A

Format: eBook from Author

Reviewer: Toni

Rating: 4 Cups

Blurb:*

Running from an abusive husband, Natalya encounters more than she can handle…especially when she becomes a vampire’s target.

As a Watcher of the King’s Guard, Vahe Patten hunts rogue vampires, ones who break their vampire laws. When dead bodies are left for the human authorities to find, their secret is out, and Vahe takes on the mission by seeking the next victim before the killer does—only to find her blood tasted sweeter than any he’s ever had. 

Natalya Woods just wants to avoid her abusive husband and live a normal life, but the small town of Haven has been anything but safe. When she’s attacked in the streets, literally, by the man of her dreams, she finds herself kidnapped and putting her weapon skills to use—surprisingly not on her husband. Attraction and desire throws Natalya and Vahe in a bind as they work together to fight the killer, but will Natalya overcome her distrust of men and allow herself to take the risk to love?

Review:
What an exhilarating ride. Page after page you are drawn into the world of the hunter and the hunted. Hold on tight and don’t let go!!

Natalya has been living in fear since she escaped the clutches of her abusive husband. Her house is wired for security and she is amply supplied with guns and other weapons. Now all she just needs to do is protect her heart and soul.

Strong, powerful and feared Vahe is a force to be reckoned with. He is a Watcher, an enforcer of vampire laws. He eliminates any paranormal beings that are a threat to their secret society. Never been one to protect a human, he is unexplainably drawn to Natalya. She is a wounded woman in need of a gentle touch, but Vahe has no concept of the word gentle.

Whew! Right from the beginning the suspense kicks in. Something is in the air, but Natalya just can’t decipher it. She is already a woman on edge, but when she feels someone is watching her, she needs to follow her instincts. This woman does have a problem and it isn’t her deranged husband. She is about to be forced into the unknown world of vampires.

There were times that I loved and hated Vahe. He was an arrogant man, but I guess if you have been alive for centuries and you are a Watcher, you could afford to have an attitude. I still wanted to smack him right upside the head, just like Natalya did. While she is a scared scarred woman, she held her own with this brute and I applauded her. They had a combustible relationship that was a pleasure to read. She kept him on his toes and you could just see him losing his hard veneer.

Fear of Darkness is not a deep fulfilling emotional story, but it does grab you and doesn’t let go. It is a great short read if you want some hot vampire hero/villains, a spunky woman and non-stop action. Got an hour or so, pick up this book! It is a quick fix in your time of need.


Available at:
Amazon (Kindle Edition)
Barnes & Noble (Nook book)


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*Blurb Courtesy of Amazon

**Disclaimer: This book has been provided to Coffee Beans & Love Scenes Reviews free of charge by the author. No money has been exchanged for the review of this eBook. This review reflects the opinion of the individual reviewer and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the other C&R reviewers or this blog’s administrator/editor.

Deep Within the Heart by Rie McGaha

Title: Deep Within My Heart

Author: Rie McGaha

Sub-Genre(s): Historical, Adventure, erotic, M/F

Publisher: Silver Publishing

Publication Date: February 20, 2011

ISBN #: 978-1456394714

Format: eBook from Author

Reviewer: Sam

Rating: 5 Cups

Blurb:*

When Mary-Michael Murray is orphaned, she travels with her nurse from Ireland to live with her aunt in America. Settling in New Orleans, Aunt Margaret decides it's high time Mary finds a husband but she doesn't count on Mary falling in love with a pirate. Caleb Jordan doesn't believe in marriage, after all a pirate's life is not accommodating to the family life. So why can't he get Mary out of his mind and why does he keep going back to New Orleans to see her?

Review:
Deep Within My Heart was a moving, emotional love story. When I started reading I thought it would be similar to pirate stories of the past but I was mistaken. From the moment this story starts it reals you in. Mary-Michael is an adorable character who really moves the story along and when Calen Jordan enters, well anyone would be hooked.

I highly recommend this read. It is far more than your typical erotic romance. Deep Within My heart pulls on the heart strings and takes you on a wonderful love story fit for any day or any time. I loved every page.

Available at:
Amazon (Kindle Edition)
Barnes & Noble (Nook book)


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*Blurb Courtesy of Amazon

**Disclaimer: This book has been provided to Coffee Beans & Love Scenes Reviews free of charge by the author. No money has been exchanged for the review of this eBook. This review reflects the opinion of the individual reviewer and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the other C&R reviewers or this blog’s administrator/editor.

Loose Ends by Lucy Felthouse

Title: Loose Ends

Author: Lucy Felthouse

Sub-Genre(s): Erotic, contemporary romance

Publisher: Summerhouse Publishing

Publication Date: July 27, 2011

ISBN #: B005F06BV2

Format: eBook from Author

Reviewer: Dawne

Rating: 5 Cups

Blurb:*

When Jonathan and Lauren met at University, it should have been the beginning of a beautiful relationship. Sadly, it wasn’t to be, and Jonathan became ‘the one that got away.’ Years later, at a University reunion, Jonathan shows up unexpectedly throwing Lauren into turmoil. The pair start talking, and soon all the old feelings come back. But will this time be different, or will their mutual affection continue to be unrequited

Review:
Johnathan and Lauren have quite the predicament in Loose Ends and Felthouse steamed up the pages for me. This fast-paced novella had me wanting more for Johnathan and Lauren. From their quickie in the motel room straight through to the end. I wanted more for them. Felthouse dabbles in their past, giving the reader a feel for what the endured until that moment at the reunion.
While the characters' personalities aren't delved into completely, Felthouse made Loose Ends an enjoyable read. I would recommend this erotic romance novella to anyone looking for a quickie and pleasurable needs met.

Available at:
Amazon (Kindle Edition)
Barnes & Noble (Nook book)


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*Blurb Courtesy of Amazon

**Disclaimer: This book has been provided to Coffee Beans & Love Scenes Reviews free of charge by the author. No money has been exchanged for the review of this eBook. This review reflects the opinion of the individual reviewer and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the other C&R reviewers or this blog’s administrator/editor.

Road To Recovery by Alyssa Fox

Title: Road To Recovery

Author: Alyssa Fox

Sub-Genre(s): Erotic Romance

Publisher: Pink Petal Books

Publication Date: May 5, 2011

ISBN #: B0051HF0LG

Format: eBook from Author

Reviewer: Toni

Rating: 5 Cups

Blurb:*

Dr. Erin Miller’s life was going great; for the most part, anyway. She was single, had a career she loved, and a cherished circle of friends, but something was missing. When a mentorship with the Chief Pediatric Surgeon becomes available, she couldn’t be more thrilled. Maybe this is just what the doctor ordered! That is, until the handsome and charismatic Dr. Kyle Reynolds decides he wants the mentorship as well.

Kyle Reynolds has lost everything including his wife and daughter. With nothing left in his life except for his job, he sets his sights on the new mentorship position with single-minded determination. The only obstacle he faces is the sexy Dr. Erin Miller

Review:
Two brilliant doctors vying for the same coveted position. Problem is…they are going to be not only fighting for the position, but also their hearts.

Dr. Erin Miller is smart, determined, goal oriented and one of the most brilliant surgical residents on staff. Her dream has always been to work with children and now she has a chance to achieve that goal. Her only obstacle is Dr. Kyle Reynolds. Our first description of him is priceless, “God, could his scrubs hug his body any tighter?”

Kyle lives every day for his job. With nothing else in his life, he only wants to be the best he can be. After losing his daughter, he is bound and determined to never allow another parent feel what he felt when he lost his little girl. He is an arrogant, but amazing surgeon. He is a perfect candidate for the job.

Erin and Kyle have been at the same hospital from the beginning, starting their internship at the same time. They had chemistry right from the start, but circumstances got in the way and now they have the position for mentorship with a predominate surgeon as an barrier too. Ms. Fox didn’t play that obvious angle in the plot; it was more of a starting point for them. As their attraction grew the job actually took a whole different angle all together. I enjoyed how she tackled their troubles and made Erin and Kyle seem like real people with real problems. I fell in love with them right from the beginning.

I really should mark my rating down to say 4.5 cups, but I can’t. I have two reasons; one problem is there is something that happened between the lovers that was never resolved. Normally that wouldn’t be a concern for me if it wasn’t continually brought up. It was addressed right at the end of the book and a then a few pages later the story was done. Poof – that was it no answers or closure! It would have been better not to blatantly shine a light on it and then just drop it. My second problem is obvious editing errors. They were not major, just correctly spelled words that were not right for their context. One example is the use of trusted instead of thrusted. Believe me “trusted” wasn’t the proper word. But according to Word, thrusted is a misspelled word, so that could have been the problem.

I enjoyed the novel too much to even allow those two points to deter me from giving it a rating of 5 Cups. I totally enjoyed every sentence. There was realism, tenderness and believability. Road to Recovery is an exceptionally well written contemporary romance novel.


Available at:
Amazon (Kindle Edition)
Barnes & Noble (Nook book)


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*Blurb Courtesy of Amazon

**Disclaimer: This book has been provided to Coffee Beans & Love Scenes Reviews free of charge by the author. No money has been exchanged for the review of this eBook. This review reflects the opinion of the individual reviewer and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the other C&R reviewers or this blog’s administrator/editor.

The Kandy Shoppe by Debra Dennis

Title: The Kandy Shoppe

Author: Debra Dennis

Sub-Genre(s): erotic romance, contemporary

Publisher: Breathless Press

Publication Date: April 29, 2011

ISBN #: B004YQROIM

Format: eBook from Author

Reviewer: Toni

Rating: 4 Cups

Blurb:*

One sexy repairman, a little melting ice cream, and a lot of red-hot desire just might give dessert a whole new meaning.

Kandace Parker wants nothing more than to have a thriving ice cream parlor, but her run down equipment isn’t cooperating. Watching her profits melt away each time her freezer breaks is only half her problem – the other half is her sexy repairman, Jason Chapman.

Jason is man enough to admit he’s made some mistakes in his personal life; the biggest one was pushing Kandy away years ago. He knows the Ice Cream Queen won’t willingly give him a second chance, so he devises a plan to keep him front and center in her life with the hopes of wearing her down.

How far will Jason go to get his second chance? How far will Kandy go to keep her freezer running? When desires collide in The Kandy Shoppe, they'll have to decide if decadent sex is enough or if love can be the best dessert.

Review:
This sweet little delight is fast and fantastic.

Kandace “Kandy” Parker has wanted Jason Chapman for years. One horrible evening, back in college and he broke her heart. For several months Jason has been trying to get Kandy to give him a second chance. She is holding strong but after her freezer continues to breaking down, she is starting to falter. One indecent deal later and she caves to years of unfulfilled passion.

If you are looking for something earth shattering and deep, you will not find it here. This is just a wonderful quick read that is ooohhhh so sweet. There are no character outlines and barely a back story, just an enjoyable romp with a smokin’ hot repair man and a tantalizing business woman.

In the mood for a little sugar – check out this book. You will walk away satisfied!

Available at:
Amazon (Kindle Edition)



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*Blurb Courtesy of Amazon

**Disclaimer: This book has been provided to Coffee Beans & Love Scenes Reviews free of charge by the author. No money has been exchanged for the review of this eBook. This review reflects the opinion of the individual reviewer and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the other C&R reviewers or this blog’s administrator/editor.

Retribution: Journey of the Damned 1 by Robin Badillo

Title: Retribution: Journey of the Damned !

Author: Robin Badillo

Sub-Genre(s): Romance, vampire, paranormal

Publisher: eXtasy Books

Publication Date: October 1, 2010

ISBN #: B0046LV8RI

Format: eBook from Author

Reviewer: Toni

Rating: 4 Cups

Blurb:*

Waking up in a strange place with no memory is hard enough, but when you unknowingly wake as a vampire with an insatiable desire to drain a stray cat of its life's blood--then you can bet that you're about to take a journey down a very bumpy road.

Sydney Chance finds herself a stranger to her new life as well as the one she left behind. On a reluctant mission to uncover her past, Sydney's struggle with bloodlust is magnified when all of her senses draw her to a brooding and intriguing vampire named Demetri Bastian, who seems more intent on fighting her at every turn as he keeps her at arm's length while trying to protect and control.

To make matters worse, a sadistic ancient vampire, who makes it his hobby to collect beautiful young women and keep them as pets, has his fangs set on Sydney. 

Not knowing her own name takes a back seat to the drama that unfolds all around her as she seeks revenge on the vampire who created her, sending her on a suspenseful trail of love, lies, betrayals, twists and turns that could quite possibly destroy her, immortal or not. 

Who says what you don't know can't hurt you?

Review:
Amnesia is a scary thing, but to also wake up with a nerve burning need to feed and not know who you are has got to be rough. Retribution is an enlightening take on the sorrows and joys of becoming a vampire.

When she woke up in a strange place she felt horrible. Everything seemed wrong and she hurt like hell. In and out of consciousness, surrounded by sights and sounds foreign to her, she was scared - no terrified. She knows she isn’t herself, but she doesn’t know who she is. Her hearing is amplified, her body is not her own and the person who is taking care of her is vague yet helpful.

That is how Sydney Chance felt when she woke up. With her new friend and new existence, Sydney must move forward. It doesn’t take long for her to understand what she is. With perseverance and anger towards her creator she has a new outlook on life or rather her undead life.

Now she must learn how to cope and how to survive in her strange new world. She must outmaneuver and outsmart the sadistic ancient Quinton and understand her unusual attraction to the standoffish gloomy vampire Demetri Bastian. With the help of her new friends, Sydney might just make it.

I enjoyed this different take on the turning of a vampire. To me it encompassed a more realistic view of a change. The body doesn’t just wake up and say “yummmm blood”. Ms. Badillo’s rendition of Sydney’s first 48 hours was a great opening with her strong emotions and turmoil of dealing with the change.

The vampires in Retribution have unique abilities that help them blend in with humans. It was a nice change all around; their abilities, weaknesses and strengths all blended well and didn’t seem outlandish.

Demetri is your typical vampire. He has a troubled past and he tries to ignore his feeling towards Sydney, all while being broody, grumpy and sexy. While reading Ms. Badillo’s comment from Sydney in regards to Demetri’s protectiveness of her, really gave me a chuckle and made me think of all the other alpha vampires out there in books: “Now, why did I still need to get permission from Demetri to go anywhere or do anything? Oh yeah, I remember, because he was a two-hundred-year-old vampire with a daddy complex.”

I am intrigued and fascinated by this vampire series. I have been drawn in and I plan on continuing to read about Sydney’s adventures as a vampire. Retribution is an absorbing and engaging read, not to be missed. I hope her journey is as good as her turning. Great job Ms. Badillo for writing a great introduction into this series, I’m hooked!


Available at:
Amazon (Kindle Edition)



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*Blurb Courtesy of Amazon

**Disclaimer: This book has been provided to Coffee Beans & Love Scenes Reviews free of charge by the author. No money has been exchanged for the review of this eBook. This review reflects the opinion of the individual reviewer and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the other C&R reviewers or this blog’s administrator/editor.

A Proper Charlie by Louise Wise

Title: A Proper Charlie

Author: Louise Wise

Sub-Genre(s): Romantic Comedy

Publisher: You Write On

Publication Date: January 13, 2011

ISBN #: 978-1908147714

Format: eBook from Author

Reviewer: Toni

Rating: 5 Cups

Blurb:*

Charlie Wallis has everything a girl could wish for. A loving boyfriend, a nice flat and a fantastic job as a journalist for London Core. Trouble is, Charlie's boyfriend's a waster, her job title really reads 'clerk' and her flat, at the top of a high-rise, isn't that nice after all. Her new boss, Ben, is a huge bear of a man. A gentle giant, with chocolate brown eyes that hold a secret.While London Core investigates the murders of local prostitutes, Charlie wants in on the action, deciding that dressing as a hooker and walking the streets is good research.Bumping into Ben was the last thing she expected.A story of opposites not only attract, but ignite!

Review:
I don’t think I have had this much fun in a long time!! This book had suspense, sexual tension and wonderful British humor all wrapped in a perfectly packaged PG rated novel. A Proper Charlie is a delightful story of two mismatched ordinary people, finding love in a most peculiar way.

Charlie is an average woman, with an average job and with a very below average love life. She gets through her daily grind with wit and her gay best friend, Melvin. I LOVE MELVIN!! Charlie has had a hard life growing up parentless in the system. All she ever wanted was to belong. She has no family and is starving for love and attention. I would have to say that is her biggest hurdle in life. She gloms onto someone and then lives in a fantasy world, totally clueless to the pitfalls and follies of loving losers.

Ben Middleton is not your normal alpha romance hero. He is a beta all the way. Living in the shadow of his controlling dominating father, Ben is coasting through life. His father even picks out his girlfriends. He knows he needs to change things, but is reluctant to do so. After the tragic loss of his mother, Ben’s life is thrown into upheaval. It’s time to make a change. He has a task to accomplish and he will do anything to achieve it.

This book is filled with misunderstandings and misconceptions. Normally I am not fond of that kind of storyline, but Ms. Wise does a wonderful job balancing it in the plot without sacrificing the romance. I really enjoyed watching these two come together and all the problems they had to overcome. I busted out laughing several times. The supporting cast members are absolutely fabulous! Every one of them enhanced the story. I felt like one of the gang and I’m going to miss them.

So to wrap things up, you got your ho-hum woman and your run of the mill wealthy man, mix in a serial killer, a half dozen prostitutes and a gaggle of quirky co-workers and you have this engaging, fun, fabulous read. I couldn’t put it down. A Proper Charlie is a delightful change of pace. I whole heartedly recommend this book!!


Available at:
Amazon (Kindle Edition)
Barnes & Noble (Nook book)


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*Blurb Courtesy of Amazon

**Disclaimer: This book has been provided to Coffee Beans & Love Scenes Reviews free of charge by the author. No money has been exchanged for the review of this eBook. This review reflects the opinion of the individual reviewer and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the other C&R reviewers or this blog’s administrator/editor.

The Heart of War by Lisa Beth Darling

Title: The Heart of War

Author: Lisa Beth Darling

Sub-Genre(s): Erotic, GLBT

Publisher: Moon Mistress Publishing

Publication Date: November 21, 2010

ISBN #: B004DCB3CA

Format: eBook from Author

Reviewer: Toni

Rating: 4 Cups

Blurb:*

Inside the heart of every warrior breathes the soul of a hero--even within The Heart of War. 

Meet Ares God of War is the greatest Warrior the world has ever known, he's also moody, grumpy, dominant, ravenously sexual,and above all, built like a Greek God. 

Suspected of killing his Daughter in-Law, Psyche, and long in exile from Olympus, the solitude of Ares' island is interrupted when Magdalena MacLeod a brash and sometimes manipulative Fey washes up on Ares' island after believing she's been shipwrecked. There is no wreck and her memory of events is sketchy at best. Branded with a golden chastity belt bearing the mark of Cernunnos, Celtic God of the Forest and Death, Alena has been on the run from the Great Horned God for 200 years. As Ares and Alena grow closer discord erupts on the island as his head woman, Kat, plots to get rid of Alena and the Olympians plot to use her in their endeavor to discover who killed Artemis. Ares will have to choose between his Divinely Dysfunctional Family, his pride, and Alena before dueling to the death with the God of the Forest. 
Come along for an epic adventure of erotica, steamy romance, and drama in this Modern Day Greek Tragedy. Battle Ancient Gods and Fall in Love along side Ares God of War and Alena MacLeod. Theirs is a love that will rock the world from the heights of Olympus to the Celtic moors

Review:
I can honestly say this is the most adult book I have read in a long time. This is a phenomenal epic tale of war, revenge, hatred and love.

Ares the God of War is in exile for a crime he didn’t commit. Isolated on his private isle, he is surprised one night by an unconscious woman who has washed ashore. Ares is a striking God with long wavy raven hair and standing at seven feet tall. He has dark olive skin and onyx eyes. His ego is beyond measure. Arrogant, demanding and sexually dominant he is a force to be reckoned with and initially a tough character to love.

Magdalena MacLeod is confused. How did she get from off a ship sailing from Africa to an island off the coast of Greece? Things just seem to get worse from there. Now she is also a virtual prisoner of Ares. Alena is a tiny woman, with fragile features, long gray hair and silver eyes with alabaster skin. She is powerhouse though when it matters most. Strong-willed and adaptable, she takes on the egotistical God and holds her own.

I think I enjoyed this book so much because it was so unique. Lately most books I have read are simple, A and B do C and they live happily ever after. The Heart of War had so many amazing facets that as one scenario was resolved another was one waiting. I was never bored and I was completely immersed in the story. Ms. Darling covered the alphabet from A to Z.

The supporting cast was phenomenal, from the other inhabitants of the island all the way to the top of Mount Olympus. Ms. Darling wrote engaging and believable characters. We always knew the Olympian Gods were an incestuously devious group, but WOW this interpretation was spectacular and honestly plausible. I do have to say, I think I hated them more than loved them, but it all made for an emotional ride.

This book could have easily been a 5 Cup book for me. Unfortunately, there were way too many typographical and grammatical errors for me to ignore. Most errors would have likely been missed by a spell checker, but a thorough read through would have caught the obvious problems. I do have to say though, the continuity was solid and the story flowed well.

I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well written novel with adventure, emotional turmoil, sizzling sex and an intricate plot. The Heart of War is a mature read due to the content of the story. The violence is vividly written and highly detailed. This book includes: incest, rape and torture scenes. I am looking forward to the next installment of this exceptional series.


Available at:
Amazon (Kindle Edition)
Barnes & Noble (Nook book)


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*Blurb Courtesy of Amazon

**Disclaimer: This book has been provided to Coffee Beans & Love Scenes Reviews free of charge by the author. No money has been exchanged for the review of this eBook. This review reflects the opinion of the individual reviewer and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the other C&R reviewers or this blog’s administrator/editor.

5 Reasons To Leave Your Lover by Carolyn Moncel

Title: 5 Reasons To Leave Your Lover

Author: Carolyn Moncel

Sub-Genre(s): Romance, anthology

Publisher: Createspace

Publication Date: May 1, 2011

ISBN #: 978-1456339272

Format: eBook from Author

Reviewer: Nikki

Rating: 4 Cups

Blurb:*

Love, trust, commitment, respect and responsibility are elements of a good relationship. When one or more of these elements are missing, it disturbs the natural flow of a relationship, and decisions will need to be made. In 5 Reasons to Leave a Lover: A Novella and Other Short Stories, Carolyn Moncel tells the poignant tales of love, loss, heartbreak and saying goodbye. 

The novella, which consists of three stories, explores how infidelity not only affects the wife and the husband, but the mistress. Ellen Roulet has found proof that her husband, Julien, was not only cheating but is going to leave her. While they have not spoken to each other on this matter, Ellen is outraged and over a course of a couple hours allows her rage to overtake her emotions. During these same hours, Julien, who is away from home, debates with himself on where his heart lies. Kate, the mistress, has much at stake also, as the life of her son and unborn child need financial stability. This gracefully written novella takes you deep into the minds of the parties involved in this love triangle. The characters are all too human and fragile staying with you after you have finished reading. Each sentence is utterly necessary to the overall story and the not-so-perfect ending is reflective of real life.

Review:
“Set Yourself Free, Ellery”

Ellery Roulet is devastated when she finds a letter written by her husband, Julien, to his mistress, Katrine. How does one cope when you find out your spouse no longer wants you and has already started a family with someone else?

There is only one word that can describe Ellery and that’s strong. When Ellery discovers that her life isn’t as she’s perceived it to be she goes through the entire range of emotions and yet remains true to herself. Although her “breakdown” was hilarious, Ellery took the high road. While there was something that prevented me from fully connecting with Ellery, I couldn’t help but want to follow along on her road to self discovery.

“Maybe Just Leave, Steve”

Maybe Just Leave, Steve is a cute little story told from a very interesting point of view. It took me a few pages to figure out who the narrator was, but that only enhanced my enjoyment of this story.

“Maybe in Death, Beth”

Maybe in Death, Beth is a very touching story of what happens when one spouse dies after 65 years of marriage. It is a brief glimpse into Herman and his emotions on the day his beloved dies and how she tries to take care of him even in death.

5 Reasons to Leave a Lover by Carolyn Moncel contains a novella and two short stories. This is an interesting combination of story lengths; however, it works because of the connecting theme – lose of love. Each story found in 5 Reasons to Leave a Lover is interesting on its own. If you’re looking for something different, this is a book that I would suggest.


Available at:
Amazon (Kindle Edition)
Barnes & Noble (Nook book)


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*Blurb Courtesy of Amazon

**Disclaimer: This book has been provided to Coffee Beans & Love Scenes Reviews free of charge by the author. No money has been exchanged for the review of this eBook. This review reflects the opinion of the individual reviewer and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the other C&R reviewers or this blog’s administrator/editor.

No Time For Love by Desmond Haas

Title: No Time For Love

Author: Desmond Haas

Sub-Genre(s): Romance, suspense

Publisher: Secret Cravings Publishing

Publication Date: April 19, 2011

ISBN #: B004XTX08S

Format: eBook from Author

Reviewer: Dawne

Rating: 5 Cups

Blurb:*

Silas abuses her, like one of toys he can buy and sell with his illegal businesses. Finally, she gets the chance to escape only to have Silas McCutcheon find her again and leave her for dead after one last brutal attack.

The last thing Dominec expects to find barely alive, is a woman. As a recovering alcoholic, he knows the trials and tribulations of changing his life and he doesn't need the complications the woman represents. When Reana explains her past and begs him to let her heal in his remote cabin, sparks fly and attraction sizzles.

Silas wants Dominec's land and he'll do anything to get it, but when Silas finds 
out that not only does Dominec have the land he wants, but also Reana, nothing will stop him from taking what he believes belongs to him.

Will the police safe house be their sanctuary or their burial ground when Silas 
finds them?

Review:
This was the first Desmond Haas novel I've laid my eyes and hands on...but it won't be the last. The way Haas interweaves the main plot with a few secondary ones is brilliant. From having Tracey search for Arthur's daughter (family) that he lost years ago to the way Esther and Max intermingled in the story line, I applaud Haas for remembering to have underlying stories within the story.

The dialogue exchanges are well designed and the character personalities are honed in. Haas displays a fabulous progression to the story and left me waiting for the final 'gun-fight', Kudos to Haas for sharing this suspenseful romance.

Available at:
Amazon (Kindle Edition)
Barnes & Noble (Nook book)


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*Blurb Courtesy of Amazon

**Disclaimer: This book has been provided to Coffee Beans & Love Scenes Reviews free of charge by the author. No money has been exchanged for the review of this eBook. This review reflects the opinion of the individual reviewer and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the other C&R reviewers or this blog’s administrator/editor.

Emily's Affair by Elijana Kindel

Title: Emily's Affair

Author: Elijana Kindel

Sub-Genre(s): Contemporary Romance, M/F

Publisher: Elijana Kindel

Publication Date: July 18, 2011

ISBN #: B005DER6J6

Format: eBook from Author

Reviewer: Dawne

Rating: 5 Cups

Blurb:*

Emily Stafford has fallen into heat and needs it bad. Real bad. After one innocent run-in with her neighbor and his sexier-than-homemade-sin voice at the mailroom in her condominium complex, she had a toe curling… you know. When her second encounter with the object of her lust is just as innocent and has the same result, Emily decides to seize the moment and have herself a hot, no strings attached affair. 

Jake Grayden has a plan and it doesn't include 'wham-bam-thank you-sir's. He's made up his mind that Emily is the one for him and he's willing to take as many long, cold showers as is necessary to make her realize that she wants the same thing. But when she overpowers his self-control and her heart begins to beat for him and only him, the race is on for Jake to break down Emily's emotional barriers and show her the fine art of loving… and being loved

Review:
Kindel's arousing presentation of characters in Emily's Affair is priceless. From the way a no-strings affair is approached and the hotter than hot sex scenes, I applaud Kindel and her writing style. From the moment I started reading Lee's (Emily) dilemma to how Jake coaxed her for more, I couldn't stop reading.

The way Kindel delves into Lee's emotional scars and hesitation to love left me breathless and realizing how much reality was written into those scenes. The dialogue couldn't have been more precise, the way Kindel made the characters lovable and left me rooting for them from the get-go. Am anxious to find more of Kindel's works.

Available at:
Amazon (Kindle Edition)
Barnes & Noble (Nook book)


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*Blurb Courtesy of Amazon

**Disclaimer: This book has been provided to Coffee Beans & Love Scenes Reviews free of charge by the author. No money has been exchanged for the review of this eBook. This review reflects the opinion of the individual reviewer and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the other C&R reviewers or this blog’s administrator/editor.

Coming Back by Rachel Leigh

Title: Coming Back

Author: Rachel Leigh

Sub-Genre(s): Romance, erotic

Publisher: The Wild Rose Press

Publication Date: August 12, 2011

ISBN #: B005HF9IMO

Format: eBook from Author

Reviewer: Dawne

Rating: 5 Cups

Blurb:*

Kelly Hampton loved once...and lost. After two years of looking for Sean MacKenzie in other men--and failing miserably--she takes a vow of celibacy. No sex until she finds love. Then Sean strolls back into her bar, reigniting old flames. No one has come close to understanding or satisfying her like he did. Her body burns for the passion they once shared, but her heart still remembers the pain.

Sean escaped Jessop Hill and his father's fists in the middle of the night without a word--even to his love, Kelly--to protect his battered mother, but he never forgot the explosively erotic relationship he left behind. Now his father is dead and Sean is back for the only woman he's ever wanted. Their reunion is full of fire – but can sexual attraction and noble intentions overcome years of heartache or will Kelly walk away to protect her heart this time

Review:
Can you feel the hostility? The sexual tension? WOW- Leigh knows how to develop characters, dialogue and a plot. Poor Kelly Hampton just vowed celibacy and in HE walks. Yes, the man who apparently broke her heart two years ago. So, what's a girl to do?
Leigh spins a fabulous tale in Coming Back. The powerful revelation of early-on abuse and the way each character relates to their past is remarkable. Leigh is a fabulous story-teller and hit the mark with Coming Back. Leigh spends twenty plus pages building the sexual tension between the duo and when they finally do the dirty deed/foreplay...let's just say, YES!
The tension all around for Kelly and Alex is created in such a way that I was cheering for their reunion all through the book. I applaud Leigh's phenomenal writing style.

Available at:
Amazon (Kindle Edition)
Barnes & Noble (Nook book)


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*Blurb Courtesy of Amazon

**Disclaimer: This book has been provided to Coffee Beans & Love Scenes Reviews free of charge by the author. No money has been exchanged for the review of this eBook. This review reflects the opinion of the individual reviewer and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the other C&R reviewers or this blog’s administrator/editor.

Branded Hearts by Shay MacLean

Title: Branded Hearts

Author: Shay MacLean

Sub-Genre(s): Romance, Futuristic

Publisher: Sizzler Edition

Publication Date: July 28, 2011

ISBN #: B005EZJHG4

Format: eBook from Author

Reviewer: Dawne

Rating: 5 Cups

Blurb:*

Thrilling romance - and female domination! Margarit St. James has her heart set on running the Action Adventure Division of her family's virtual publishing company, but when her father refuses and gives her the Branded Division instead she's furious. She's never had any luck with romance in her personal life, how can she manage a division that specializes in it? Even worse--her Vice President of Operations, turns out to be the man of her dreams, but his personal issues kept them from exploring what could have been. Now, it's her past getting in the way. Alex Barrett is livid when he learns he's been demoted to VP, that is until he sees who's taken over. Margarit has haunted his dreams ever since the fateful night he'd pushed her away. He’s learned that you can heal your emotional scars enough to love again. Feeling that providence has given him a second chance with Maggie, he decides to show her how to heal emotionally and learn to trust others with her safety, but will she be able to accept the woman who holds the other half of his heart too? Jasmyn Carrara has always known she didn't possess all of Alex's heart. When she finds out the new boss at work is the one that holds the other half she'll stop at nothing to ensure that Maggie heals and becomes a part of their life

Review:
This is the first book I've read by Shay MacLean but will definitely NOT be the last. MacLean adds such dimension to the lead characters, Margarit and Alex, that the reader can't do anything but root for their combustible union. The way she digs into their lives, intermingles their love/hate relationship are priceless and had me in awe.
The tenderness displayed by Alex towards Margarit's emotional marks are believable and show such affection that I was speechless, wishing for such a male in my life to show the same emotion boundaries. Kudos to MacLean for creating such a story and allowing fans to become involved. I look forward to many more of her writings in the future.

Available at:
Amazon (Kindle Edition)
Barnes & Noble (Nook book)


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*Blurb Courtesy of Amazon

**Disclaimer: This book has been provided to Coffee Beans & Love Scenes Reviews free of charge by the author. No money has been exchanged for the review of this eBook. This review reflects the opinion of the individual reviewer and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the other C&R reviewers or this blog’s administrator/editor.

Sometime Somewhere by Brooks Adams

Title: Sometime Somewhere

Author: Brooke Adams

Sub-Genre(s): Romance, Contemporary

Publisher: Excessica Publishing

Publication Date: May 9, 2011

ISBN #: B0051VXDGG

Format: eBook from Author

Reviewer: Sam

Rating: 3 Cups

Blurb:*

Janie Lovell is a brilliant project manager working at the Madrid office of a leading consulting firm. Beautiful and aggressive, she has what it takes to be successful in a man’s world and is respected by colleagues and competitors alike. During a trip to the Seattle headquarters, the last thing she expects is to fall in love with the sexy new CEO, Dennis Mitchell. During an action-packed weekend in Canada, the seeds of love are sown.

Destiny reunites them in Paris again a few months later, where Dennis declares his love for her. After going their separate ways, Janie finds out she’s pregnant but keeps it from him, not wanting to condition his love. Feeling lonely and miserable, she decides to go back to her native Australia. Before leaving, she spends a few days at her summer house in Ibiza, where she seeks comfort in Diego, her ex-husband. Dennis discovers her secret and unexpectedly appears on the scene, engagement ring in hand, to find her in Diego’s arms. He is outraged and leaves, convinced the baby isn’t his. A year later, they meet again at the Melbourne office and Dennis sees his son for the first time. Realizing his mistake, this time he’s prepared to overcome his fears to win her love back

Review:
Sometime Somewhere had so much potential however I found myself disappointed with the story. The premise sounded great and I was really looking forward to it but I found the build up between Janie and Dennis became slow and drawn out.

The sexual chemistry between the two was well written but, by the time you started to really get into their potential and the story kicking off for real it all seemed to end. Overall I thought it was a good book and I would have loved to rate it higher but with the slow beginning and then the quick ending I didn’t feel completely satisfied.

I would have loved to see this as a longer story.

Available at:
Amazon (Kindle Edition)
Barnes & Noble (Nook book)


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*Blurb Courtesy of Amazon

**Disclaimer: This book has been provided to Coffee Beans & Love Scenes Reviews free of charge by the author. No money has been exchanged for the review of this eBook. This review reflects the opinion of the individual reviewer and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the other C&R reviewers or this blog’s administrator/editor.

Stolen Destiny by Gabrielle Bisset

Title: Stolen Destiny

Author: Gabrielle Bisset

Sub-Genre(s): Erotic Paranormal Romance, time travel

Publisher: Siren Publishing

Publication Date: August 31, 2011

ISBN #: 978-1610349338

Format: eBook from Author

Reviewer: Sam

Rating: 4 Cups

Blurb:*

Released from prison to find a murderer, a prison-hardened Varek Leale is convinced no woman deserves the man he's become, but his Aeveren destiny makes him succumb to sweet and sexy Callia Reynolds. To catch a murderer, he and Callia must find an Aeveren with the power to control time. But Amon Kalins isn't a man to trifle with, and when he wants something, he'll use his powers, devastating charm, and good looks to get it. When Amon manipulates time and seduces her away, Varek must turn to the people who set him free for help to get her back. But the Council doesn't do anything without requiring something in return, and what they want is Amon Kalins, one of the most powerful Aeveren ever. Varek will do what he must to capture Amon and find Callia. If he doesn't, she'll be lost to him for untold lifetimes

Review:
Stolen Destiny had a few surprises in store for me. I’m not one for the sci-fi type of fiction and when I started reading and realised it had elements of sci-fi I was a little put off. Was I more wrong? As soon as I got to the second chapter, I was hooked.

The only problem I found with this book was I preferred the enemy, Amon, as I found Varek became a little boring throughout the story. However, this is just a personal choice and didn’t affect the overall story.

The mixture of plot, romance and sexual heat was well combined and thoroughly thought out.
A thoroughly enjoyable read and certainly one to keep.

Available at:
Amazon (Kindle Edition)
Barnes & Noble (Nook book)


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*Blurb Courtesy of Amazon

**Disclaimer: This book has been provided to Coffee Beans & Love Scenes Reviews free of charge by the author. No money has been exchanged for the review of this eBook. This review reflects the opinion of the individual reviewer and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the other C&R reviewers or this blog’s administrator/editor.

Undercover Nights by Patricia Logan

Title: Undercover Nights

Author: Patricia Logan

Sub-Genre(s): Erotic, M/M, War

Publisher: Torquere Press, Inc.

Publication Date: March 9, 2011

ISBN #: B00501HKL6

Format: eBook from Author

Reviewer: Nikki

Rating: 4 Cups

Blurb:*

In the mist of ending a miserable relationship, gentle physical therapist Gage Neary has been accused of the most horrific of crimes -- murder. As a number of his patients die of poisoning, the evidence seems to point to him, and he becomes the prime suspect in the FBI investigation. Cody Redsun, the smokin’ hot FBI agent assigned to investigate the crimes, decides that it’s Gage he’d rather probe for answers.

When they find their lives threatened, Cody gives himself a new assignment; keep Gage alive until he can find the actual killer. While the true menace to the two men seems to be clear, Cody hides a tortured past that is just as threatening to their deepening bond. As the danger heats up, so do the two men, burning only for each other and the fiery passion that promises to consume them

Review:
Gage Neary is a physical therapist who is unlucky in love. His current lover, Antonio, is not only a cheater, but abusive as well. At the darkest moment in Gage’s life, in walks Cody Redsun. Although Cody is investigating Gage in connection with tainted drugs, he turns out to be the answer Gage’s less than satisfying love life.

Cody Redsun has lived through experiences that would cripple a lesser man and in some ways they have. Cody doesn’t do relationships because of his past. Somehow, Gage finds a way to crawl under his skin and Cody finds himself risking everything he believes to be important to keep him there.

I couldn’t help but to fall in love with Gage and Cody. They are both well developed, likeable characters. Gage needs the strong alpha male in Cody. In turn, Gage is the balm to soothe Cody’s soul that Cody didn’t realize he needed. They are a perfect balance for one another.

Undercover Nights by Patricia Logan is a fast paced mystery with a hot romance. It has enough surprises to keep you interested from the first chapter to the last.

Available at:
Amazon (Kindle Edition)
Barnes & Noble (Nook book)


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*Blurb Courtesy of Amazon

**Disclaimer: This book has been provided to Coffee Beans & Love Scenes Reviews free of charge by the author. No money has been exchanged for the review of this eBook. This review reflects the opinion of the individual reviewer and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the other C&R reviewers or this blog’s administrator/editor.

Slave To His Desires by Ashlynn Monroe

Title: Slave To His Desires

Author: Ashlynn Monroe

Sub-Genre(s): Erotic, F/F, M/F, Light bondage

Publisher: Beachwalk Press

Publication Date: July 17, 2011

ISBN #: B005D7TIO4

Format: eBook from Author

Reviewer: Sam

Rating: 4 Cups

Blurb:*

Is it possible for a woman who is kidnapped and sold into slavery to find love with the man who purchases her?

As Madison Edwards is walking home one night, she finds herself face-to-face with strange creatures—aliens. They kidnap her and sell her into slavery. Out of place and alone, she struggles to understand the alien world where she’s being held captive. Her feelings about her new master are conflicted, and she’s torn between wanting to go home and wanting to fulfill all his desires.

Spontaneous and out-of-character, Jul purchases a rare human female at the market. Her people are known to have mystical sexual powers. He believes the tales are only myth until he has Madison in his home, and she soon consumes his life. She’s valuable, magical, and he fears he can’t protect her. His friends complicate the situation when they become involved, but they also offer him hope.

When everyone on the planet desires what you value most, it takes more than love to protect her.

Review:
Slave to his desires was a really interesting read. I found the plot interesting and once I started reading I thought them, out of space and alien touch on the sex slave/ slave trade was really well thought out.

The relationship between the characters was well developed and it worked with how quick the story was the way in which Ashlynn Monroe conveys the change within their relationship by using the powers they possessed to understand their true feelings followed by a nice twist at the end.

This is a very quick story but well worth the time.

Available at:
Amazon (Kindle Edition)
Barnes & Noble (Nook book)


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*Blurb Courtesy of Amazon

**Disclaimer: This book has been provided to Coffee Beans & Love Scenes Reviews free of charge by the author. No money has been exchanged for the review of this eBook. This review reflects the opinion of the individual reviewer and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the other C&R reviewers or this blog’s administrator/editor.

Warrior Nights by Patricia Logan

Title: Warrior Nights

Author: Patricia Logan

Sub-Genre(s): M/M, War

Publisher: Torquere Press, Inc.

Publication Date: June 8, 2011

ISBN #: B005A8SOVO

Format: eBook from Author

Reviewer: Nikki

Rating: 4 Cups

Blurb:*

Horribly scarred, Trace Martin has returned from an Iraqi prison camp a tormented man. He struggles to cope with PTSD and alcoholism, nearly burning down the family home. Brodie, his twin, turns to her best friend Kyle Kincaid for advice on how to help. Kyle, also a former Marine, has been expelled from the military under the DADT policy. The two men dislike each other immediately, but when Trace cleans up, they begin to see an attraction.

Shortly after the two men begin an intense relationship, Brodie’s life is threatened by a monstrous serial killer. The men are thrown into a new role for which they’ve been well trained; protecting Brodie’s life. Add in the irresistible Ryan Harris, Trace's nurse from Walter Reed Hospital and their relationship is further tested. Join Kyle and Trace as they battle for their lives and their families in this exciting conclusion to the Armadillo Series.

Review:
Trace Martin and Kyle Kincaid are both Marines whose service to the country has left them scarred. While Trace’s scars are visible and an ever present reminder of the torture he suffered at the hands of his Iraqi captors, Kyle’s invisible scars are just as pain. These are two alpha males who needed to be healed in more ways than one. Once they get past their preconceived notions about the other they begin to do just that.

Patricia Logan’s Warrior Nights is a grippingly, dark tale about the brutalities of war and the victims left in its wake. The way Ms. Logan wrote this tale, you couldn’t help but run through the full gamut of emotions with Trace and Kyle. At times, I liked them both and at other times I wanted to shake some sense into them, but at no time did I ever stop hoping that they would get their HEA. The stalker subplot in this story set was a brilliant device. Not only did it for Trace and Kyle to work together to protect Trace’s sister Brodie, but it “lightened” the dark tone of the book. My only complaint with Warrior Nights was the introduction of Ryan into Trace and Brodie. In my opinion, he was totally unnecessary and his character felt forced into the story. However, this did not prevent me from enjoying this book.

Warrior Nights is the third and final book in the Armadillo series. These books do not have to be read in order, although characters from the first two books do make appearances in this one. After reading Warrior Nights, you’ll definitely want to read the other books in the series.

Available at:
Amazon (Kindle Edition)
Barnes & Noble (Nook book)


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*Blurb Courtesy of Amazon

**Disclaimer: This book has been provided to Coffee Beans & Love Scenes Reviews free of charge by the author. No money has been exchanged for the review of this eBook. This review reflects the opinion of the individual reviewer and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the other C&R reviewers or this blog’s administrator/editor.

Feral Heat by Elizabeth Black

Title: Feral Heat

Author: Elizabeth Black

Sub-Genre(s): Romance, Werewolves

Publisher: Romance Divine

Publication Date: November 23, 2009

ISBN #: B002YK451E

Format: eBook from Author

Reviewer: Toni

Rating: 3 Cups

Blurb:*

Grant and Sam were more than lovers; they shared a special secret. They also shared Grant’s roommate, Amelia, who was beginning to get suspicious about the two hunky males who disappeared every month. The sexy trio was not without their crises: Grant and Sam had a curse that continued to dog them, and Amelia’s soon-to-be ex had a bite that was as bad as his bark. It’s a howlin’ sexy time

Review:
Amelia Scott is in the midst of divorcing her controlling jerk of a husband. Due to his lack of support, she is renting a room to Grant Newman. They have been co-workers for a while and she feels comfortable with the tall dark man, not to mention sexually attracted to him too. Unfortunately, she is also attracted to Grant’s lover. Sam Hightower is Grant’s polar opposite, he is also tall, but is leaner and very blond. This story takes place during the long weekend that Grant moves in.

Feral Heat is a very fast moving book. I will honestly have to say I have not read a werewolf story like this before. I would not consider this a romance either. It is erotic and the ménage scenes are hot. There is no happily ever after, but there is definitely a happily ever after for now. These are three consenting adults, who also happen to be friends.

I just couldn’t fall for any of the characters. Considering its short length it is very understandable, there was no time for character development. Well that is not true; Sam did start to grow on me. Amelia and Grant were just okay for me. Their relationship didn’t seem true to me. The story dynamics didn’t seem realistic to me either. I know, it is a paranormal book, but even within the world you are reading about you still need to believe in the story being told. I will say thought that my view of the book changed a bit after reading Ms. Black’s personal blurb at the end of the story. It stated, “she creates unusual worlds for her eccentric characters”, now that I believe.

I did enjoy reading the story, but I had to shake my head quite a few times at Amelia and Grant. But like I said, at the end I did step back and reevaluate the story and I now I see a “different colored” light at the end of the tunnel. Feral Heat will not be for everyone, but if you want a new twist to the same old same old then head on out and pick up it up. You will be drawn into an erotic world with unconventional werewolves and the woman that loves them. Oops sorry “enjoys” them.


Available at:
Amazon (Kindle Edition)
Barnes & Noble (Nook book)


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*Blurb Courtesy of Amazon

**Disclaimer: This book has been provided to Coffee Beans and Love Scenes Reviews free of charge by the author. No money has been exchanged for the review of this eBook. This review reflects the opinion of the individual reviewer and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the other C&R reviewers or this blog’s administrator/editor.

When We Meet Again by Dawne Prochilo

Title: When We Meet Again

Author: Dawne Prochilo

Sub-Genre(s): Contemporary Romance

Publisher: Secret Cravings Publishing

Publication Date: May 19, 2011

ISBN #: 978-1618850546

Format: eBook from Author

Reviewer: Sam

Rating: 5 Cups

Blurb:*

How many of us have wished we could turn back the clock? Go back to one specific time that would change our lives forever and it would be exactly how we wanted it. Brynn Saunders has wished that for over two decades and while she can't change her life, a strange twist of fate is giving her a second chance at her one true love. Best friends Ethan Miller and Brynn have loved each other unconditionally since high school and while their lives were entwined early, they never shared the intimacy they felt for the other. After an abusive marriage for Brynn and a loveless marriage for Ethan, they've reconnected twenty four years later and are acting upon what they never had the chance to do years ago

Review:
When We Meet Again by Dawne Prochilo, was an emotional story that had me in tears by the end. For the first time ever reading a romance book, I wondered if the main characters would ever be with each other.

I was addicted to this read from the start and I did not want it to end and when a story does that to me I know it is a keeper. When We Meet Again, will make you want to laugh, cry, get angry and become deeply attached to the characters.

A fantastic read and one I would highly recommend.

Available at:
Amazon (Kindle Edition)
Barnes & Noble (Nook book)


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*Blurb Courtesy of Amazon

**Disclaimer: This book has been provided to Coffee Beans and Love Scenes Reviews free of charge by the author. No money has been exchanged for the review of this eBook. This review reflects the opinion of the individual reviewer and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the other C&R reviewers or this blog’s administrator/editor.

Up A Dry Creek by Avery Flynn

Title: Up A Dry Creek

Author: Avery Flynn

Sub-Genre(s): Contemporary Romance

Publisher: Evernight Publishing

Publication Date: June 13, 2011

ISBN #: B0055UZ9UG

Format: eBook from Author

Reviewer: Michelle

Rating: 3.5 Cups

Blurb:*

Claire Layton expects the usual busy Saturday night at Harvest Bistro to be killer on her stilletto shod feet. She never imagines there’d be an actual murderer on the loose at her restaurant in rural Dry Creek, Nebraska. But when she discovers a customer dead in a dumpster, the killer demands she find the victim’s phone and flash drive or face fatal consequenses. 

Jake Warrick, a cocky and mind-numbingly hot private investigator, becomes Claire’s unlikely ally in the search. Jake just wants to solve the case and get out of this hick town, but the diminutive and curvaceous Claire turns his plan upside down as they uncover a more complex crime than they ever imagined. The two bicker and banter like Tracy and Hepburn caught in a whirlwind of intense sexual attraction as they try to find the killer before it’s too late.

Review:
What I really liked about this book was how realistic it was. While I was reading it, I could totally picture it happening just the way Avery Flynn described. That to me is the mark of good writing.

I really loved how spunky Claire was. I instantly connected with her because of her fire. She was alive, and not afraid to get her hands dirty. I loved how she just jumped right in, no questions asked. Even if it did get her into trouble sometimes.

Because it was a murder who-dun-it with the killer on the loose, there was a good amount of suspense and intrigue. I was trying to solve the case the whole time right there along with Claire. There are also some close call and kind of scary moments. I love creepy moments in murder books. hehe maybe I'm a little weird?

This is a really good book, it sped right along. No dull moments or extra fluff. I really appreciated that. I easily read the book in one sitting. I could totally see how this book would make a great start to a series or a complete standalone. It ended in a good place.

Up a Dry Creek contained some sexual content, so the age rating recommendation is 18+. It was not overdone though, I thought it was a good amount. Not too much, not too little. Up a Dry Creek was a fast paced, believable and throughout enjoyable read.


Available at:
Amazon (Kindle Edition)
Barnes & Noble (Nook book)


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*Blurb Courtesy of Amazon

**Disclaimer: This book has been provided to Coffee Beans & Love Scenes Reviews free of charge by the author. No money has been exchanged for the review of this eBook. This review reflects the opinion of the individual reviewer and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the other C&R reviewers or this blog’s administrator/editor.

The Arrival of Lily Curtis

Title: The Arrival of Lily Curtis

Author: Rachel Brimble

Sub-Genre(s): Romance, Contemporary, Historical

Publisher: The Wild Rose Press

Publication Date: June 24, 2010

ISBN #: 978-1601547927

Format: eBook from Author

Reviewer: Marika

Rating: 5 Cups

Blurb:*

At the mention of an arranged marriage, Elizabeth Caughley feels her life is over at the age of three and twenty...so she hatches an escape plan. She will reinvent herself as a housemaid. Overnight, Elizabeth becomes Lily - on the understanding if her attempt at independence fails, she will return home and marry a man of her parents' choosing. Viscount Westrop will ensure his legacy is passed to his own son one day. Even though he feels insurmountable pity for the unborn child already, he knows how much pain a broken promise can cause and will do what is right. But with the arrival of his new housemaid, his plans are thrown into disarray. Lily is funny and feisty and the most beautiful creature on earth - Andrew is thunderstruck. But if anyone suspects how much he wants to ravish her and endlessly love her, Andrew's lineage will undoubtedly be in peril.

Review:
Historical novels have been hit and miss with me lately. I’ve read both mainstream and erotica historicals and up until now, I lost faith in them. The Arrival of Lily Curtis restored my faith and excitement in historical novels.

Elizabeth is not your typical historical heroine. She is feisty, educated and knows what she wants out of life. She doesn’t like the “society image” that she is expected to live. She wants to live her own life on her terms and not by someone else’s. She wants to marry for love, not for duty or money. Her parents have reluctantly agreed to an arrangement of Elizabeth working as a maid on an estate to earn her own money so that she can live free of society in Paris, France. What drew me to Elizabeth/Lily were her spirit and her commitment to be true to herself and no one else. Ms. Brimble wrote Elizabeth/Lily will such passion that she would be a girlfriend to have in your corner.

Andrew is not your typical historical hero, either. He is a man that knows that he marry for duty and to produce the heir apparent but wants to marry for love instead. Unfortunately, he made a promise to his father and he will not break it. What Andrew didn’t factor in was Lily. She tempts him on a different level all together. She’s the maid but he senses something more in her. Once he gets to know her as a person and not a maid, he is hooked.

Ms. Brimble’s story could be set in any setting and the story would still be there for us to enjoy. What makes The Arrival of Lily Curtis set apart from other historical novels is the world that is created is described with fluidity and constant that I felt like I was there with them. She doesn’t describe a scene in such detail that you skip the showing of the scene just to get to the dialogue. The dialogue is sharp, funny and emotional. The secondary characters in the book are a big part of the story but don’t distract from Lily and Andrew. They enhance the story and add depth to each scene that they are in with them. While the bedroom scenes are sensual, they are not over the top and very appropriate for the time period.

I was sorry that this book ended. I felt like Lily and Andrew’s story could go on forever. I highly recommend this book to anyone that has lost faith in the historical genre; it will be restore with The Arrival of Lily Curtis.


Available at:
Amazon (Kindle Edition)
Barnes & Noble (Nook book)


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*Blurb Courtesy of Amazon

**Disclaimer: This book has been provided to Coffee Beans and Love Scenes Reviews free of charge by the author. No money has been exchanged for the review of this eBook. This review reflects the opinion of the individual reviewer and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the other C&R reviewers or this blog’s administrator/editor.