"Helena" by Brindle Chase

Title: Helena
Author: Brindle Chase
Publisher: Loose ID LLC
Sub-Genre: Paranormal Romance
Length: 232 pages
Heat Rating: Erotic
Rating: 4 Cups

Available at:
Amazon | B&N | Loose ID LLC | All Romance eBooks

Blurb:
Helena must have fallen into disfavor with Mother Superior. Her latest assignment to pose as a stripper and infiltrate the notorious underworld lair Gothic City Lights was outrageous! She -- an angel of charity -- was required to display her pure, perfect flesh to bait and eliminate a demon lord.

Demon-hunter Antonio Bendicini was bred for war. Sent to Portland to reduce the rampant population of demons there, he is quickly mired in an ancient war between angel and demon.

Both after the same mark, their paths collide. Helena could never have prepared herself for Antonio. Huge, hideously scarred from years of battle, and ugly, he was a true warrior, just like she, and he ignited something she’d never felt before: lust.

In "Beauty and the Beast" fashion, their desires entwine with molten ferocity and she falls to her want. Helena realizes she cannot complete her mission, because her heart belongs to the human. Determined to devise a new plan where she need not display her naked flesh for any man save Antonio, Helena is captured by the demon lord. Antonio must swallow his pride, stay his wrath, and join forces with the angels to rescue her before she is killed -- or worse -- defiled.

Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual situations, graphic language, and material that some readers may find objectionable: violence.



Tsteinerid's Review:
Helena is being forced to do something she doesn’t understand and certainly won’t enjoy: Stripping!

Helena is an angel of charity. She lives to save souls and to help others in need. Her spare time is spent at the homeless shelters, feeding, clothing and giving herself over to others. Her next assignment is something she has never done. She is to strip nude in front of lustful humans. How does the Mother Superior expect an angel whom is still a virgin to be able to convincingly pull this off? Well, the Mother Superior has sent in a secret weapon: Lilith the half succubus, the heroine from book one.

Antonio is a lonely scarred man on a mission. His only reason for living is the eradication of demons. Night after night he goes out on the prowl to clean up the streets and protect humans from these vile evil creatures. One night in a dark alley and his life is changed forever.

Both Helena and Antonio are hunters. Both basically enjoy their jobs, but from the moment they meet they question everything. Their passion is scorching, their coupling sinful, and neither want to give each other up. They never expected to find each other, but now that they have, one of them will have to give up their calling to finally enjoy happiness.

This is the second book that I have read from Mr. Chase. I’m very pleasantly surprised at the depth of the plot and the world building. He has taken a normally religious subject, spiced it up, but didn’t take away the integrity of the institution, well at least in my opinion. I really enjoyed how he built the whole universe. The mechanics behind their hierarchy is comprehensive and very fascinating. I also love how he has taken the idea that everything deserves love, even angels. I couldn’t agree more.

Mr. Chase writes very hot scenes and storylines that are unique and detailed. I really enjoy his style and his imagination. He is a diamond in my reading world of mainly women authors. He sparkles and shines and I plan to read more books written by him. Mostly, I hope he visits Gothic City Lights again. I’ll be on the lookout for that one.





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**Disclaimer: This book has been provided to Coffee Beans & Love Scenes (“CBLS”) Reviews free of charge by the author in exchange for an honest review of this title. No money has been exchanged for this review. This review reflects the opinion of the individual reviewer and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of any other CBLS reviewer or this blog’s owner, editor or administrator.

"Gothic City Lights" by Brindle Chase

Title: Gothic City Lights
Author: Brindle Chase
Publisher: Loose ID LLC
Sub-Genre: Paranormal Romance
Length: 185 pages
Heat Rating: Erotic
Rating: 3.5 Cups

Available at:
Amazon | B&N | Loose ID LLC | All Romance eBooks

Blurb:
It was just a fling. Lilith Templeton had no clue he was a human agent working for the angels. No big deal, but she got caught and Mother Superior, Portland’s most powerful angel, wants penance. Or death, Lilith’s choice. Being a lowly half-demon and therefore not a participant in the never-ending war for souls, she knows it's insane to cross the full-blood demons like Mother Superior wants. But opting out isn't an option: do or die. For additional penance, she's paired with an angel who not only ignites her lust but something more. Lilith wants to fall in love, to know what it was like to share herself with just one man. Yet since succubi needed to stay sexually satisfied, falling in love with the angel of chastity is a mistake she can’t afford.

Gabriel would have never second-guessed his choice to ascend through the virtue of chastity. Until he meets Lilith. Now, his ascension would be forfeit if he cannot vanquish his need for her. Having no choice but to ignore the fire burning inside them, they work towards tempting the demon cult’s human leader into revealing the hideout. Lilith, sexually irresistible half-succubus, is the perfect bait. Get in, send the signal and wait for the angel to rescue her. Oh and not get killed, or tempt the angel. Simple, right?



Tsteinrid's Review:
Gothic City Lights is a look into the supernatural underworld of Portland, Oregon. Where demons and angels are in a constant battle and lives are at risk.

Can a demon have “good” in them? Can an angel harbor sin in his heart? Those are questions that arise in Gothic City Lights. While the concept of good hearts in demons and an angel with sin on his mind is not new, this story is intriguing.

Lilith is a half demon. She is constantly trying to satisfy her succubus cravings. With sex being the only thing on her mind, the only thing her body craves, it’s her heart that wants more. Years and years of non-stop sex is getting old and the games are getting boring. Lilith needs to mix things up. She didn’t think wishing for change would drop an angel in her lap.

Gabriel has a mission to accomplish, but why is Mother Superior bringing in a demon to help? Not to mention a demon that stirs forbidden things in an angel of chastity. He must remain strong, but it’s really difficult when she is everything that he never knew he desired.

Forced to work together is one thing, but to be forced to live together 24/7 is another. Gabriel is battling his desire to taste and claim her and Lilith is battling new feelings of desire that even a succubus should never have to feel. They each will lose themselves if they fail to stay apart, but how can they, when love begins to fill their hearts.

Something drew me to this story. Even after coming off another book that had deep religious undertones and eroticism that disappointed me, I couldn’t help but want to read this story. I can honestly say that Gothic City Lights did not disappoint. I really enjoyed the foundation of this story. The old good versus evil plotline has been told again and again, but this take was filled with angst and passion. I was constantly wondering how these two people were finally going to come together and I can say that I didn’t see the “how” coming.

Mr. Chase did well and I can’t wait for the next in the series. So why did I not rate this higher then? While I was intrigued with the story it didn’t make me NOT want to put it down. I could walk away and do other things. When a book is really great for me, I just can’t do that.

I do have to give this book credit for making me think though. I was continuously thinking about it. Lilith and Gabriel were on my mind and their plight was burned into my brain. I wanted them together, but just was so unsure how it was going to happen. Mr. Chase really did do a fabulous job working that out. He has a new fan and I am looking forward to the next in the series, Gothic City Lights: Helena. Keep up the great work. This book is a winner!





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**Disclaimer: This book has been provided to Coffee Beans & Love Scenes (“CBLS”) Reviews free of charge by the author in exchange for an honest review of this title. No money has been exchanged for this review. This review reflects the opinion of the individual reviewer and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of any other CBLS reviewer or this blog’s owner, editor or administrator.

"Sex, Lies and Contracts" by Jennifer Probst

Title: Sex, Lies and Contracts
Author: Jennifer Probst
Publisher: Red Sage Publishing
Sub-Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length: Erotic
Heat Rating: 113 pages
Rating: 4 Cups

Available at:
Amazon | B&N | Red Sage Publishing | All Romance eBooks

Blurb:
Julianna Elizabeth Waters promises her dying father to save the family estate at all costs, even if it means marrying for money, and not love. After years of taking care of her sick parents, she's become afraid to push past the walls of her Newport mansion and live.

Jack Woodward has it all - wealth, power, and prestige, but discovers a contract stating he must marry within three months or his legacy will go to his cousin, a man he loathes. He leaves England and disguises himself a gardener, intent on finding a woman who loves him for himself, and not his money and title.

When he spots Julianna on the cliffs, he vows to claim her at any cost, but she is intent on marrying a wealthy husband. He may be disgusted with her values, but he craves to initiate the spinster into the dark world of pleasure. They strike a bargain: she will belong to him every night and do anything he commands. Lust turns to love as the nights unfold, and suddenly the terms change.

But when his cousin comes to town, disguising himself as the perfect husband with a plan to steal Jack's legacy, Jack forces her to choose: love or money. A wrong choice throws a startling chain of events in action. Can love and truth triumph or will it be too late?



Tsteinrid's Review:
Two people forced into life altering decisions not of their own choosing. Both yearn for more, but how can they get past the expectations of their deceased fathers? While this story centered on half truths and misconceptions, it was a very lovely story.

Julianna has lived her life for everyone but herself. The one moment she thinks she is finally free; her father gets sick and ruins all her plans. On his death bed, he makes her promise to save the family home. The problem is that there is only one thing to save it with, her soul.

Jack has known his destiny since he was a toddler. Born into a family of wealth and privilege, he takes on his duties like the man he grew up to be. After the death of his father, he expected to take over the family business, but his mother just informed him that he has to marry first. Jack is determined to marry for love, but if he has to, he will marry for his family. He has three months to find a wife, so he travels to America to find her.

From the moment they meet there are sparks. She only sees a poor gardener and he sees a money hungry socialite. Both couldn’t be more wrong about each other. I enjoyed their sizzling heat and their combustible union. These two burned up my reader and I couldn’t be happier. I loved that Jack was a dominate lover and once Julianna decided to let go of her reservations, she gave Jack her all.

Ms. Probst wrote a great novella with tons of heat but kept the story strong and very interesting. She also managed to include a surprisingly mammoth jackass of a cousin. What more could you want?





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**Disclaimer: This book has been provided to Coffee Beans & Love Scenes (“CBLS”) Reviews free of charge by the author in exchange for an honest review of this title. No money has been exchanged for this review. This review reflects the opinion of the individual reviewer and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of any other CBLS reviewer or this blog’s owner, editor or administrator.

"Devil May Care" by Diana Duncan

Title: Devil May Care
Author: Diana Duncan
Publisher: self published
Sub-Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length: 268 pages
Heat Rating: Spicy
Rating: 5 Cups

Available at:
Amazon | B&N

Blurb:
Free-wheeling rogue Flynn Devlin roars into Marisa Matheson's well-ordered life on a Harley, with a devil-may-care attitude, a body made for sin, and an Irish lilt that could charm the panties off a nun.

Exactly the kind of bad boy she doesn't need.

Except Flynn also possesses magic talent with a camera—something she desperately needs to keep her wedding planning business from tanking after her regular photographer is injured.

Flynn Devlin is the only thing standing between Marisa and complete financial ruin.

He's also hiding a damning secret from her. All in the name of love, but still...Flynn knows that when the lass who's capturing his heart as easily as he captures images finds out he's not quite what he claims to be, all hell will break loose.

And his devil-may-care attitude doesn't include his heart.

Because this devil doesn’t want just a one-night fling with his stubbornly independent lass…he wants forever.



Tsteinrid's Review:
Flynn Devlin is on a mission. One of his best friends needs his help and he will do all he can to help him. His buddy was there for him during his dark times and now it is his chance to return the favor. No matter what, he will complete this task.

Marisa Matheson is goal oriented, strong willed and focused. She must make her business a success and she will do whatever is required to make it happen. Unfortunately, one wrong spill from her photographer and all her plans may go up in smoke. On the wedding day of her most important client to date, she is in need a replacement photographer and fast. In rides Flynn on his Harley. Even with all his dark biker looks and sultry ways, he blows the photos out of the water. He also lights a fire in Marisa that she has no time or desire to fan. She can’t fall victim to his charming ways. She made that mistake once, hurting people in her life. She won’t make that same mistake again.

Who would have thought that the carefree Flynn would fall for the uptight reserved Marisa? All he knows is that she stirs feelings in him he is not about to ignore. He will use all his devilish charm to unleash the passionate woman he knows is buried within. He has a long hard road ahead of him. She is the key to helping his friend, but by doing so he may ruin his chances with her.

What an adorably sexy story! I don’t know how Ms. Duncan does it, but so far with the Devilish Duncan’s she has made me laugh, sigh and fall in love with the whole lot of them. I was captivated with Deal with the Devil and she did it again with Devil May Care. I love Flynn’s perseverance and charm and admired Marisa’s strength and devotion. Not to mention Marisa has two adoptive brothers that I want to call my very own too.

I enjoyed every page and when I was done, I wanted…no needed, more. I can’t get enough of this family. I made the mistake of reading Brody’s little tidbit, Devil to Play, at the end. Now I am sad that I have to wait. I want to hunt Ms. Duncan down and make her write more, more, more and faster too. Keep up the great work! You have a lifelong fan and I can’t wait to enjoy more of your fun, steamy, sexy writing.





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**Disclaimer: This book has been provided to Coffee Beans & Love Scenes (“CBLS”) Reviews free of charge by the author in exchange for an honest review of this title. No money has been exchanged for this review. This review reflects the opinion of the individual reviewer and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of any other CBLS reviewer or this blog’s owner, editor or administrator.

"Dare Me (1Night Stand series)" by Jennifer Probst

Title: Dare Me (1Night Stand series)
Author: Jennifer Probst
Publisher: Decadent Publishing
Sub-Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length:
Heat Rating: Erotic
Rating: 5 Cups

Available at:
Amazon | B&N | Decadent Publishing | All Romance eBooks

Blurb:
As a military leader back from the war, and the youngest of his two dominant older brothers, Rafe Steele struggles with a secret. He craves surrender in the bedroom under the controlled hands of a Dominatrix. When his brothers offer him a one-night stand through Madame Eve’s dating service, he jumps at the chance to enact his fantasy. After one experiment, he’s sure he’ll be able to move on. But he never counted on Summer Preston to strip down his walls and make him want more than one night...

An elementary school teacher with a girl next door, fresh face, Summer is constantly barraged by men who want to take care of her but she longs to meet a strong man who can handle her dominant ways in the bedroom. Trapped in her own storybook life, she books a one-night stand with Madame Eve to finally experience her fantasy. But she never counted on Rafe Steele to push her boundaries in both the bedroom...and her heart.



Tsteinrid's Review:
Dare Me put a smile on my face from start to finish.

In my reading world, D/s relationships are dominated by men. I really have not been interested in a female lead. I will have to rethink that after reading this story.

Rafe Steele is the last of the Steele brothers to find love. After his two brothers utilized the services of Madame Eve and found resounding success, they convince Rafe that he needs to give her dating service a try. Neither of the brothers have a clue though, that Rafe’s idea of a fantasy involves being submissive to a woman.

Summer broke away from her parents’ conventional views of what a woman should be and how she should act. She is her own person and her desires in the bedroom run dominate. Her normal day-to-day life revolves around being proper and sweet. She wants it down and dirty behind closed doors and she want to run the show.

I loved these two from their very first meeting. Once it moved into the bedroom, I was actually jealous of Summer. Here she had an alpha strong gorgeous man on his knees…Hello!

Anyways, this is a great short read. Since this is the last of the trilogy, I’m a bit sad. These are three couples that were such a joy to meet and I will miss them. I enjoyed Ms. Probst’s trilogy and though I knew going into these stories that they would be short, she has written three men that I could have easily enjoyed longer stories of. She has left me wanting, so I guess I’ll just have to see what else she has written and submerge myself in her other works. Great job and well done! This is another exceptional rose in the garden of 1 Night Series!





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**Disclaimer: This book has been provided to Coffee Beans & Love Scenes (“CBLS”) Reviews free of charge by the author in exchange for an honest review of this title. No money has been exchanged for this review. This review reflects the opinion of the individual reviewer and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of any other CBLS reviewer or this blog’s owner, editor or administrator.

"Play Me (1Night Stand series)" by Jennifer Probst

Title: Play Me (1Night Stand series)
Author: Jennifer Probst
Publisher: Decadent Publishing
Sub-Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length: 32 pages
Heat Rating: Erotic
Rating: 5 Cups

Available at:
Amazon | B&N | Decadent Publishing | All Romance eBooks

Blurb:
Professional gambler Sloane Keller is tired of dating weak willed men and longs to meet a man who challenges her dominant personality and forces her to submit. As the Queen of Cards, she’s used to making her own rules, and craves the excitement of Vegas. But her inner heart cries out for someone who can be her match, both inside the casino and in the bedroom.

As the new dealer in town, Roman Steele is burnt out on women looking for a quick penny and a man to follow. He craves a woman with fire in her soul and a keen intellect who can challenge him. When his brother recruits Madame Eve to help, Rome is amazed at the complicated woman he gets to spend the night with. But when the evening is over, will she be gutsy enough to offer him forever?



Tsteinerid's Review:
I am very glad Ms. Probst is doing a miniseries in the 1Night Stand series. I fell in love with the first brother, Rick, and I can see an addictive pattern with the all the Steele brothers. They are as strong as their name implies.

Roman has recently moved to Las Vegas from Atlantic City. His brother has been hounding him to move out west and here he is. Now Rick has the gumption to buy him a date. Just because he found love doesn’t’ mean Roman will. Before he can change his mind Madame Eve makes the call and now Roman is in for a treat.

Sloane is a strong woman in a man’s sport. She has conquered poker and is now top in her field. The problem is, either the men in her life are intimidated by her strength or are too weak to stand up to her. She is desperate to meet someone who will take her to new heights. From the moment she set her eyes on Roman, she knew she was going all-in or nothing.

Fun, fun, fun – Play Me was just FUN!! Roman was hesitant until he sees the woman sitting at the card table and Sloane was leery about the strong heated look the man across the room was giving her. Both were blown away and their one night stand was dominate, sexy and hot.

Ms. Probst has written a great story. Of course this is a short story and I knew it coming into it, but it was really a very fast read. It was smooth and there was not a single bump along the way. I was left wanting more and I will get that with the last installment in the Steele Brother’s Trilogy – Dare Me.

Play Me was another great addition. I loved the interplay between the characters and the simplicity of their romance. They are a natural couple and I could see it throughout the whole story. This is a wonderful way to spend an hour. Bath time reading at its best!





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**Disclaimer: This book has been provided to Coffee Beans & Love Scenes (“CBLS”) Reviews free of charge by the author in exchange for an honest review of this title. No money has been exchanged for this review. This review reflects the opinion of the individual reviewer and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of any other CBLS reviewer or this blog’s owner, editor or administrator.

"Forever Material" by Athena Grayson

Title: Forever Material
Author: Athena Grayson
Publisher: self published
Sub-Genre: Romantic Comedy
Length: 164 pages
Heat Rating: Sensual
Rating: 4 Cups

Available at:
Amazon | B&N | All Romance eBooks

Blurb:
She's absolutely sure he's not the marrying kind… He's absolutely sure she's right… But he's still going to prove her wrong.

"...a flirty, sexy romp." - IvyD, ManicReaders

"...a light, fun read, and more than occasionally funny, but it's also got a lot of depth to it, and some ideas worth pondering long after the book has been set down." - Anna, GenreReviews

After making a fool out of herself too many times over bad boys, Barbara Whitehall knows one when she sees one. That's why she's made a career out of teaching other women how to get over the bad boys--like her hunky neighbor--and find good men.

Jake Mancini’s life was going just fine until his good-looking business neighbor walked into his life on killer legs. But those legs are nothing next to her lethal tongue. Her "DateSmart" workshops have cheated him out of several Saturday nights with attractive women--and prime retail space for his business.

If Jake can prove her wrong, she'll have to close up shop. All he has to do is get close enough for her to fall for him...without losing his own heart.



Tsteinerid's Review:
I understand passion and lust can make you do stupid things, but these two take the cake.

Jake is a certified bachelor. He never dips his toe in the same pool more than probably three times. He plays with his motorized toys, does what he wants and whomever he wants to do it with. HE LOVES HIS LIFE!!!

No wait…that can’t be right. He just bet the most independent, stubborn, opinionated woman that he could make her fall in love with him and be worthy of committing to!?!?! (((facepalm))).

Barbara has been burnt time and time again by losers. But she is a strong woman who can turn lemons into lemon drop martinis. She now teaches seminars on how to find “Forever Material”. Why does the hunky walking sex machine, oops I mean “fling material”, irritate her and make her so crazy? Oh who knows, but she is in deep trouble. This so called bet will ruin all her well thought out plans and very possibly break her heart. Time to batten down the hatches, this means war!

For some reason when I looked at the cover of this book I thought that it would be very comedic, I didn’t find it all that funny. Cute as all get out, but slap your knee funny…nope. It was a sweet story, a couple of laughs, and a touch of steam. A great little break!

Considering it is such a short book, you could see it all coming, but it didn’t take away from the adventure. You seen the stupid choices Jake was making and thought “what an idiot”. Then you have Barbara with little well thought out outline of the perfect man. When she went out with what she considers “Forever Material”, I just shook my head and tsked at her silliness. This brilliant woman was well…not the brightest bulb on the string.

All of that is what made this story so much fun. Even when you knew what was coming, you couldn’t look away. All you could do was watch the train wreck of these two people. So come and join the rest of their buddies from the book, who seen their romance coming from miles away. It’s a great escape. All I can say is “All Aboard”!





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**Disclaimer: This book has been provided to Coffee Beans & Love Scenes (“CBLS”) Reviews free of charge by the author in exchange for an honest review of this title. No money has been exchanged for this review. This review reflects the opinion of the individual reviewer and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of any other CBLS reviewer or this blog’s owner, editor or administrator.

"Accidentally Beautiful (1Night Stand GLBT)" by Deanna Wadsworth

Title: Accidentally Beautiful
Author: Deanna Wadsworth
Publisher: Decadent Publishing
Sub-Genre: GLBT
Length: 52 pages
Heat Rating: Erotic
Rating: 4 Cups

Available at:
Amazon | B&N | Decadent Publishing | All Romance eBooks

Blurb:
Martin Baird is perfectly content in his safe, predictable job as head concierge for Castillo Resorts, but when a handsome stranger whisks him away for a night of tropical escapades—first visiting an isolated gay bar then to a secluded beach where erotic delights await—Martin’s world is thrown upside down. He’s never met a man like Garret Fisher, but it seems he has been waiting for a night like this all his life.

Could something truly beautiful come out of this accidental meeting? Or was it really not an accident at all?



Tsteinerid's Review:
Recently I reviewed another 1 Night Stand story, Haste Ye Back by Wendy Burke. In that story I met an amazing couple Martin and Garret. They were on holiday in Scotland visiting Martin’s hometown. The couple meets up with Martin’s best friend Ian, the hero of this story. They hit it off marvelously and I sat there thinking hmmmm, I really want more of this couple. Well the book fairies have answered my prayers because Accidently Beautiful is how Martin and Garret met.

Martin loves his job. His purpose is to make sure that the dates of Madame Eve’s 1 Night Stand are perfect. While he normally works for one of the Canadian resorts, he has been helping out Jagger Castillo at the Castillo Resort in Grand Turk for the last month. After a weeklong vacation, he will be returning home to Canada. He never expected to meet a gorgeously charming stranger on the very first night of his vacation.

Garret is very comfortable in his own skin. He is open about his sexuality and is accepted by his family and peers. He works at his family’s sports bar in Detroit and after seeing several of his friends find love using Madame Eve’s services he decides to give it a try. He never expected to meet the man of his dreams and fall so quickly.

What I love about the 1NS series is that you get quick mini treasures. The setup has already been done in the series, so you get right to the story. You know it’s a one night stand and that their date will end in something spectacular. I have rarely been disappointed. The stories are all very strong and Accidently Beautiful does not disappoint either.

I was already in love with Martin and Garret, but Deanna pulled me in, regardless. Their date was very unconventional, but well written. I will have to say that their sexual encounters are well, to put it bluntly, really in-your-face. She does not hold back so be prepared for sexy hot gay sex. They enjoy each other immensely and she puts it right out there and howdy. I also loved that Martin was given the gift of Madame Eve’s services. He went into this not knowing he was on a date. The awe of discovery was just wonderful.

This is a nice addition to the 1NS family. These are well written tidbits of couples finding their soul mates. Every genre is covered and all stories are built to please. They are wonderfully addictive and now I’m off, yet again, to check out the other couples that are mentioned in Accidently Beautiful. I just can’t get enough of these great stories!





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**Disclaimer: This book has been provided to Coffee Beans & Love Scenes (“CBLS”) Reviews free of charge by the author in exchange for an honest review of this title. No money has been exchanged for this review. This review reflects the opinion of the individual reviewer and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of any other CBLS reviewer or this blog’s owner, editor or administrator.

"Lucky For Her" by Stephanie Taylor

Title: Lucky For Her
Author: Stephanie Taylor
Publisher: Astrea Press
Sub-Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length: 205 pages
Heat Rating: Sensual
Rating: 4.5 Cups

Available at:
Amazon | B&N | Astrea Press | All Romance eBooks

Blurb:
Lucky certainly lives up to his name. Once the fat kid in school, he's all grown up and taking prisoners, literally. He's the town sheriff and delights in handcuffing idiots. Most people barely recognize him being the fit and trim man he is now.

Lana, pregnant and alone, flees her abusive ex-husband and seeks refuge with her father in her hometown. She doesn't expect to meet a handsome man at a get-together and fall head over heels. Of course, she can't trust herself when it comes to men and she certainly doesn't trust Lucky.

Then Lana finds out who Lucky really is - the fat kid whose invitation she turned down for her senior prom. Fat Jack has now grown into a man that makes her burn inside. He even has a new name. Ashamed of the way she treated him in the past, she tries to walk away, but there's something that pulls her back to him.

Is it the fact that Lucky can protect her from her ex-husband or can love really conquer all?



Tsteinerid's Review:
What a sweet story!!

Jack was a young man who was crushed when the girl he loved turned him down the only time he tried to ask her out in high school. She moved on and away, never looking back. Now Jack is Lucky and he is the sexy hot sheriff in the town he grew up in and loves. From the moment he sees Lana, all he can think about how is how it might finally be time for a little pay back for all the humiliation he suffered growing up. But can this hometown boy follow through?

Lana was one of the popular girls in her small town. Moving through the high school halls never knowing what she was leaving in her wake. Not a cruel girl at heart, just at times clueless. She never expected that falling in love and marrying her high school sweetheart would be the worst mistake of her life. Now she is divorced but pregnant. She has returned home to rebuild her life for her child. She has no plans to fall in love again. Once was enough to last a lifetime.

You could almost see the sparks shooting off the pages when these two meet up again. At times I was rooting for Lucky to get his revenge and at other times I was thinking - oh come on guys get it together! I had moments of sweet awe and joy and then disappointment and sadness, but mostly this story just felt right in my heart. I enjoyed the supporting characters just as much as I loved Lucky and Lana. This is a real feel good story.

I really should not like this story. If I thought about it and dug deep, it is a love story initially based on how one looks and not what is inside. Lana didn’t notice Lucky until he was fit and trim. She does look back and realizes that what she did was wrong and knew at the time it was wrong too, but teens can be cruel and popularity important. That is just the thin surface of this novel. Don’t over analyze it, just read it. There is so much more to Lucky for Her, and I’m glad I continued to read their story.

My pdf review copy did have some editing errors, but they were minor and that was the only reason it didn’t get a 5 star rating. Lucky for Her is a wonderful story of love, forgiveness and happily ever after. I can see myself coming back and rereading it again and again. Great job Ms. Taylor!





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**Disclaimer: This book has been provided to Coffee Beans & Love Scenes (“CBLS”) Reviews free of charge by the author in exchange for an honest review of this title. No money has been exchanged for this review. This review reflects the opinion of the individual reviewer and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of any other CBLS reviewer or this blog’s owner, editor or administrator.

"Vance's Rules" by Anne Rainey

Title: Vance's Rules
Author: Anne Rainey
Publisher: Samhain Publishing
Sub-Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length: 118 pages
Heat Rating: Erotic
Rating: 4 Cups

Available at:
Amazon | B&N | Samhain Publishing | All Romance eBooks

Blurb:
His tools, his rules…

Blackwater, Book 2

Looking at Vance Jennings now, no one would guess that the tough-as-nails building contractor once suffered a broken heart. Twelve years has blunted the pain of the breakup with his high school sweetheart, but not the memory. Until she shows up on his doorstep asking for a second chance.

One look at the sexy redhead, and Vance adds a foot or two to his rock-solid emotional barriers. No way is he letting her back into his life. But he’ll be happy to let her close enough to sample her delectable body.

Shayla Riggs is no longer the vulnerable teenager who was forced to give up her first and only love. She’s older, wiser, and determined to make things right. Except the changes in Vance throw her for a loop. He’s definitely not the sweet boy she remembers. In fact, the grown-up version lights her up hotter than a firecracker.

It takes only a kiss, a caress, to bring back the explosive passion they once shared. But if Shayla can’t find a way to break through the bitter walls around his heart, it just might destroy them both. Again.

Warning: This story contains a stubborn woman intent on seduction and an alpha male with some naughty ideas of payback. Let the fireworks begin!



Tsteinerid's Review:
Time doesn’t heal all wounds.

Twelve years ago Shayla broke Vance’s heart. She left him with nothing but a letter, with no answers to his questions. For years he has wondered what her reasons were for leaving him. Now she stands in front of him, asking to clear the air and wants a second chance. Vance has to look long, hard and deep to see if he can give her that to her. What he does know for sure is that he likes what he sees in front of him. Now he needs to decide if he is willing to open himself up again.

This is book two in the Blackwater series. All I can say is that this reviewer hopes to see every one of the brothers find their match. This is a wonderful series so far and I for one will mourn when it ends. I love each and every brother to bits.

Vance’s Rules is a contemporary romance that is erotically steamy but with a very sweet story. Ms. Raines perfectly balances the sex and the plot. This is a story with heart. The plot does progress quickly, but the reasons are clear. The interaction between all the characters is brief, but you can really feel the connection between the family as a whole.

Vance’s Rules can be read as a standalone, but I suggest grabbing Sam’s Promise first. The beginning tale of the brothers shared past and their future is in the first book. Ms. Raines does a great job of continuing their collective past in Vance’s book without bogging down the plot.

My only disappointment in the story is that I got the impression from the blurb that there would be more of a battle of wills between these two characters. Most of their battles were inner personal. I do love how it all played out, but like I said I had certain expectations from the blurb.

Vance’s Rules is a wonderful contemporary erotic novella. I was captured by the history, tantalized by the sex and simply fell in love with the characters. The Blackwater series is a great form of escape and I wish I had all the brothers’ stories right now in my hot little hands.





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**Disclaimer: This book has been provided to Coffee Beans & Love Scenes (“CBLS”) Reviews free of charge by the author in exchange for an honest review of this title. No money has been exchanged for this review. This review reflects the opinion of the individual reviewer and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of any other CBLS reviewer or this blog’s owner, editor or administrator.

"Haste Ye Back (1Night Stand series)" by Wendy Burke

Title: Haste Ye Back (1Night Stand series)
Author: Wendy Burke
Publisher: Decadent Publishing
Sub-Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length: 50 pages
Heat Rating: Erotic
Rating: 5 Cups

Available at:
Amazon | B&N | Decadent Publishing | All Romance eBooks

Blurb:
All her life something had drawn Bryn Wallace to Scotland. Just weeks before her lifelong dream trip to visit Edinburgh is fulfilled, Bryn’s fiancé dumps her. She’s determined to have a good time, but touring the romantic Highlands is a bit boring alone. And not wanting to troll the pubs, she goes out on a limb and signs up with Madame Eve’s 1Night Stand service.

Divorced Ian McCallum is tired of making decisions, especially when it comes to women. When an old schoolmate suggests 1Night Stand, he figures he has nothing to lose. But, what he doesn’t know is his one-night stand was centuries in the making.



Tsteinrid's Review:
This short story read like a full novel; filled with lovely detail and a plot that was deeply woven, but not complicated. I could almost feel the passion and history between these two characters.

Bryn Wallace has wanted to go to Scotland all her life. When her fiancé decides his job is more important than her dream, she dumps him and goes without him. One misdirected text later and she is scheduled for a night she will not soon forget.

There is a legend that surrounds the community that Ian McCallum resides in. It is a tale of a heart broken man that lost the love of his life forever. All because he couldn’t open his heart to her that he loved her. Ian believes that if he ever had the chance at a love like that he wouldn’t let it go.

This was more like a one DAY stand. I enjoyed their instant attraction and the build up to their eventual meeting. It was well written and you totally understood where Bryn and Ian were in their lives. Ms. Burke did a fabulous job with their pasts. She gives us just enough background to set the stage and then she let us go; go into the fantasy of their new found love and the heat of their affection.

The legend behind the story blended so well into this tale it almost seems like a third character. The depiction of the legend makes me wonder if it real, one that I would enjoy researching.

There was mention of another couple in the story. I am intrigued and would love to read about their one night stand.

I want more about Scotland, Ian’s friend and his lover, and more importantly - of Bryn and Ian. Isn’t that what a great story does? It leaves you wanting more, well after finishing the story. You sit back and daydream about the characters, their pasts, presents and futures.

Haste Ye Back ended on a brilliant high note. Ms. Burke closed the story wonderfully. I have no doubts of their happily ever after. Great job Ms. Burke!!!





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**Disclaimer: This book has been provided to Coffee Beans & Love Scenes (“CBLS”) Reviews free of charge by the author in exchange for an honest review of this title. No money has been exchanged for this review. This review reflects the opinion of the individual reviewer and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of any other CBLS reviewer or this blog’s owner, editor or administrator.

"Catch Me (1Night Stand series)" by Jennifer Probst

Title: Catch Me (1Night Stand series)
Author: Jennifer Probst
Publisher: Decadent Publishing
Sub-Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length: 43 pages
Heat Rating: Erotic
Rating: 4.5 Cups

Available at:
Amazon | B&N | Decadent Publishing | All Romance eBooks

Blurb:
Rick Steele has avoided relationships since he caught his fiancée cheating, but when he’s talked into a one night stand through Madame Eve, he’s not prepared for his emotional and physical reaction to his date. Tara shows him a raw passion and honesty he’s never encountered. For the first time, Rick wants more than one night, but he needs to catch her first...

Tara Denton escaped a brutal past and needs one night with a stranger to get beyond her sexual and emotional limitations. On the brink of recovering her strength and independence, she wants nothing to do with a relationship. But Rick Steele does more than rock her body…he rocks her heart. Tara has to make a choice, but is she ready to get caught?



Tsteinerid's Review:
Catch Me is the little story that did.

· It did make me love Rick and Tara.

· It did capture my heart.

· It did break out of the normal 1NS mold and gave a little bit more.

· It did make me love the 1NS series even more.

Rick is pure alpha male with a heart. He is dominate, strong, loving and yet still tender. He never expected to trust again, but from the moment he sees Tara, then later when he feels her pain, all he can do is open his heart to her.

Tara is determined to be independent and to rediscover herself. Next on her list of self improvement is to get past her insecurities regarding sex. In enters Rick, as she simply puts it, is sex-on-a-stick. He is so far out of her reach, he is in the ozone. Though she is ready to high tail it out of there, Rick will not have any of it. His next goal in life is to make Tara see what he sees; even if it takes more than one night.

Their night of passion is sweet yet hot. Their emotions, fears and passion were wonderfully written, and this short story delivered quite a punch.

One little timeline problem for me bumped it out of the top spot, but not out of my heart. If I could give this a 4.9, I would.

Catch Me is another great addition to this collection. This is an hour or so well spent and shouldn’t be missed! Join me and fall in love with Rick and Tara.





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**Disclaimer: This book has been provided to Coffee Beans & Love Scenes (“CBLS”) Reviews free of charge by the author in exchange for an honest review of this title. No money has been exchanged for this review. This review reflects the opinion of the individual reviewer and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of any other CBLS reviewer or this blog’s owner, editor or administrator.

"Veil of Seduction(Ambrose Heights Vampires 2)" by Maya DeLeina

Title: Veil of Seduction(Ambrose Heights Vampires 2)
Author: Maya DeLeina
Publisher: Siren Publishing
Sub-Genre: Paranormal Romance
Length: 410 pages
Heat Rating: Erotic
Rating: 4.5 Cups

Available at:
Amazon | B&N | Siren Publishing

Blurb:
A newborn vampire. A powerful leader. An inconsolable woman. The shaping of their eternity all lies within the eyes.

Steffan Matthews is the devastatingly handsome vampire leader of Ambrose Heights. He cultivates social order and invents concoctions that allow vampires to feel human once again.

But Steffan also has a devouring obsession that brings him to his knees. Her name is Anya. Steffan sets out to claim Anya, a mortal ripe for the taking, as his mate. But the blackness in the eyes of his newborn should’ve served as a warning. Anya is off-limits according to the vampire creed.

It will take the strength of the kinship, the purity of love, a hint of magic, and a subterranean guardian to shield Steffan against the wrath of Ryan Evans, protect him from the fate of the Nemesis, and bridge a passage to his rightful destiny.



Tsteinerid's Review:
Veil of Seduction is an amazing addition to the Ambrose Heights Vampires series. The first book, Flesh Fantasy, was spectacular and this one is right up there with it.

Steffan is a man who believes in love and has waited his whole existence to find it. From the first shock of recognition to the moment of discovery, he was ready and willing to do anything to claim his mate.

Anya has known death. She lost her parents tragically and all she had left for family was her twin sister and her husband. First her husband leaves her, taking everything with him. Then she is informed her sister has recently died. For some unknown reason, her sister Anise has left her everything, including a rather large house in the exclusive community of Ambrose Heights. Now Anya is beginning a new life; filled with music and renewed hope.

Their passion is intense and their love is everlasting. But lurking around the corner is evil and deadly obstacles. These two lovers need to fight their enemies and vampire laws to be together. A little magic, friendship and loyalty will go a long way.

If I had to rate this novel on plot, characters and development alone, it would be a 5+ rating. The only reason it didn’t get the rating is because of editing errors. That is it.

The plot had me wanting to cheat and jump ahead just to see how it ended. I was good and didn’t cheat, but it was very tempting. I found that the characters were simply marvelous; the story was intricate and complex; and the world building was exceptional and inventive. I found myself lost in the tale. I was up until 5 am and had to force myself to go to bed, but lay awake just thinking about the story.

Veil of Seduction is a must read! It most definitely can be read alone, but I can’t help but insist you read Flesh Fantasy first. You won’t regret it!





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**Disclaimer: This book has been provided to Coffee Beans & Love Scenes (“CBLS”) Reviews free of charge by the author in exchange for an honest review of this title. No money has been exchanged for this review. This review reflects the opinion of the individual reviewer and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of any other CBLS reviewer or this blog’s owner, editor or administrator.

Irish Rising by Marie Rose Dufour

Title: Irish Rising

Author: Marie DuFour

Sub-Genre(s): Contemporary, Erotic

Publisher: Secret Cravings Publishing

Publication Date: February 13, 2012

ISBN #: B007BEPSHI

Format: eBook from Author

Reviewer: tsteinerid

Rating: 3.5 Cups

Blurb:*

Famous romance writer, Kim Green went to Ireland with her two cousins to research the setting of her new book and have some quality girl bonding fun. She’s in the business of writing about love. She didn’t expect it find her on the street in a sleep Irish town with a sexy, “I want to drown in your chocolate eyes” pub owner.

Duncan Murphy never believed in the old family legend. The idea a trapped mermaid granted his family the ability to recognize their one true love was absurd to him until he spots a sexy American across the street from his pub. Something deep within him recognized her as his other half

They’re drawn together in an explosive first encounter. Life is blissful until a misunderstanding threatens to tear them apart. Is their fragile newfound romance something legends are made of or the misguided belief in an ancient fantasy?

Review:
I have to admit, I have a passion for all things English, Irish and Scottish. When I seen this title I was like – MINE!!

Kim is on a working vacation. She is traveling Ireland and doing research on the land, people and history. After too much time with her cousins shopping, she decides it’s time for some alone time and heads out to explore. She never expected what she found.

Way, way, way back when, Duncan’s grandfather saved a mermaid and was granted a great boon, the ability to recognize the love of your life. While as a child he loved to hear the tale repeated, but as a grown man, he doesn’t have time for fantasy, he has a pub to run. That all changed the moment he sees a woman across the street. A woman he is instantly attracted to.

While both went into this relationship hesitantly, it didn’t take long for things to change. Their passion was explosive and very steamy. Both characters ventured outside of their comfort zones and it was fun to experience it with them.

While this is a good story, the misunderstanding just didn’t seem that dire to me as the blurb indicated. I was expecting an “oh my goodness” moment, that was never delivered. The rest of the story is enchanting and this is one short story I wish would have been longer. I could see myself enjoying more moments with these two characters.

Irish Rising is a quick entertaining escape. If you want a touch of Irish, Duncan is your man and Irish Rising the book to 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 ("CBLS") Reviews free of charge by the author. No money has been exchanged for the review of this title. This review reflects the opinion of the individual reviewer and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of any other CBLS reviewer or this blog’s owner/administrator/editor.

Sodom and the Phoenix by Ann Mayburn

Title: Sodom and the Phoenix

Author: Ann Mayburn

Sub-Genre(s): Fantasy, BDSM, Erotic, Menage

Publisher: Loose ID

Publication Date: January 30, 2012

ISBN #: B0073UVGQM

Format: eBook from Author

Reviewer: tsteinerid

Rating: 5 Cups

Blurb:*

Tanwen Evans has traveled to the Sodom Virtual Reality Resort to re-find her passion. Her twenty-year marriage to her high school sweetheart has recently ended, and with both of her children out of the house she's herself alone for the first time in her adult life. Unwilling to trust her heart to another man, she believes that indulging in some racy virtual reality fantasies will help her find her long-buried sexual side without the messy complications of a relationship. When she arrives at Sodom she discovers she has been booked during the annual ‘Leather Kiss’ BDSM convention.

Bryan Hamilton just needs to exercise his Mastery, but when runs into Tanwen all of his plans change. With her gentle disposition and her ladylike manners she calls to him like no woman has since the death of his wife. He discovers that she is a natural submissive and begins a campaign to win her heart, which includes joining her in a series of mind-blowing VR adventures.

Tanwen fights her growing attraction to the handsome Master who is supposed to be just a vacation fling. She has to decide what’s more important -- protecting her heart or taking a chance on the kind of love she’s always dreamed about.

Review:
To kill and maim your best friend or not, that is the question. Tanwen walks into a whole new world the moment she sets foot into the Sodom Virtual Reality Resort in Detroit. A vacation her so called friend set up for her. She will never trust her friend again!

Tanwen needs a kick in the butt. She is recently divorced and needs to start her love life over. After several failed attempts her best friend takes matters into her own hands and sends her to Sodom, unknown to Tanwen, during a BDSM convention. Things are about to get very kinky.

Bryan is a man that has lost his heart. He is unable to recapture the flame and really has no desire to. From the moment he meets Tanwen, his interest is sparked. Then after he inadvertently reads her “grocery list”, he plans to make her dreams become more then virtual reality, but the real thing.

During every virtual reality session, Tanwen is learning new and exciting things. She thinks she is protected from falling for Bryan, considering they live miles apart and this is just a weekend fling. The problem is as they delve into make-believe; their hearts don’t know the difference. Passion is all around them, but are they brave enough to let go of the past and take a chance?

Ann Mayburn does it again with a book that sizzles up the pages and captures your imagination. She takes you into the world of virtual reality, making you wish you could book your own trip to Sodom Virtual Reality Resort.

The scenes were fresh and new. She has taken the imaginative virtual reality world and applied it to BDSM for refreshingly new experiences. I’d be either frightened or excited if she was the programmer for my fantasies. Well done. You will have to read to see what I mean.

I also want to give high praises to Ms. Mayburn for the execution of the public exhibition scene. This was a first for me and the message was well done. Major kudos to you!

I do have to say I have one complaint and it has nothing at all to do with the story or the author. The cover really bothers me. I know it has no bearing on the story, but darn it publishers, know the story you are doing cover art for. This story is about two 40ish people. There is no way that the two people on the cover are mature adults. Heck, they are barely out of diapers. Ok, enough about my petty complaints.

This is a fun series and a nice change of pace. Sodom and the Phoenix is mucho hot, but tender. That is quite a tantalizing combination. You will never look at fantasies the same way after you experience this whole new world of virtual reality.


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.

Of Light and Darkness: The Vampire's Daughter by Shayne M. Leighton

Title: Of Light and Darkness

Author: Shayne Leighton

Sub-Genre(s): Erotic, Urban Fantasy, Sci-Fi

Publisher: Decadent Publishing

Publication Date: June 26, 2011

ISBN #: B0058DBUBM

Format: eBook from Author

Reviewer: tsteinerid

Rating: 3 Cups

Blurb:*

When one human stands before an army of impossible obstacles, the likelihood of overcoming them in this coming-of-age modern fairytale may result in war between light and darkness.

Abandoned as an infant in Prague, naive and strong-willed Charlotte Ruzikova was raised by one of the last Vampires left alive. As a human, she knows no other home than the one nestled deep in the woods of Eastern Europe, where Witches drew spells of enchantment, Phasers threw tea parties, and Elves are the closest in kin. Charlotte has lived her life in the dark with her Guardian, content to having him to herself and reveling in his attention, until she's realizes she wants more...

Resident medical doctor and Vampire, Valek Ruzik fears the day his ward would come of age and blossom into a fine woman, and he is forced to confront his own motives as time is of the essence once his past catches up to him, and their lives become endangered...

As genocide and war threatens their secret society, the dictator in power is ready to wipe out Valek's race, but Charlotte will not allow that to happen. Fighting for the only one she's ever loved and truly believed in, she will do whatever it takes to save their love...before the sun comes up and light takes over.

Review:
Can fate win over scheming and treachery?  When it comes to Valek and Charlotte’s fate, all we can do is hope!
 
Charlotte was abandoned as a baby.  For her whole life, all she has ever known is the magical world of paranormals.  Things are changing though and so is Charlotte.  Her feelings for her adoptive father are becoming deep and strong and further away from the acceptable father/daughter relationship.  She is falling in love with Valek.
 
Valek has fought his animalist hunger for Charlotte for almost two decades.  He has done so from the very moment he found her.  His protectiveness has always won out.  Now new and foreign feelings are rising in him and one look into Charlotte’s mind, and he knows that their futures are about to change forever.
 
Hatred runs strong in the veins of the Central European Magic Regime.  The Regime and their leader, Vladislov, believe only the “light” should shine and all “darkness” should be extinguished…permanently.  First on their agenda is the mass genocide of the vampires.  Now they will burn for all their crimes, and Vlad will take great pleasure in watching it happen.
 
I so wanted to love this book.  The reviews are raving and amazing, but I just couldn’t.  I just liked it.  The writing was well done, but the storyline didn’t capture me.  It is a great idea, so don’t get me wrong.  I just can’t put my finger on it.  I have no problem with the father/daughter relationship turned lovers’ aspect, because hello…they are not blood related and sexy vampire. 
 
I think part of my problem was Valek’s relationship with the other vampires.  Valek is amazingly strong.  I mean heck, he raised a human child from infancy to adulthood without one little nibble.  He was reserved and weak around other vampires, but then he would show moments of strength.  The author did write some great interplay between the characters though, and shouldn’t be missed.
 
I think what also bothered me, was according to the synopsis, Charlotte played a HUGE role in the battle.  While she had moments of amazing strength, she was also a cowering young lady, just stepping back and letting fate hand her really bad cards.  I can’t recall one moment where she actually stood up to impossible obstacles.  She was a passenger on this trip, but I can’t really blame her for that either.  She is just a young woman, thrust into the big scary world of the supernaturals.  On that note though, she does live and understand this world.  She has lived her whole life in it.  I think her greatest gift to the story was the strength that gave Valek.  She did hold her head up high and follow through during some pretty horrific ordeals, when I would have told Valek and the rest of them to piss off.
 
The Vampire’s Daughteris a YA story about the dark side of vampirism, where the monsters are real and truly scary.  I have to give kudos to the amazing author, Ms. Leighton.  She has really started to make a name for herself and if she is writing such detailed and captivating stories now, just watch out world.
 
So if you are tired of sweet affectionate vampires and want to experience the dark underbelly of the paranormal, then pick up The Vampire’s Daughter.  I still found this universe intriguing and captivating, with oodles of plot and amazing characters.  A good story when you want something a bit dark and sinister.  


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.

Blind Need (1Night Stand series) by Dakota Trace

Title: Blind Need

Author: Dakota Trace

Sub-Genre(s): Erotic, Contemporary

Publisher: Decadent Publishing

Publication Date: January 25, 2012

ISBN #: B00723OD5G

Format: eBook from Author

Reviewer: tsteinerid

Rating: 5 Cups

Blurb:*

Two wounded souls, one blind and the other scarred, are matched up by the famous Madame Evangeline—neither one expecting more than a brief meeting of two bodies in the dark for one night.

Xaviera Navarro had it all, a wonderful career ahead of her running her family’s wine business, a sexy fiancé, and her dream-wedding around the corner, but that all changed in the blink of an eye. A freak accident has left the Navarro wine heiress blind with no future other than the company of her seeing-eye dog, Lucy. After licking her wounds, she finally is tired of her own company and ventures out in hopes of finding a man who might be strong enough to stand beside her but not in front of her. If she can’t have that, she’ll settle for a night of hot loving before returning home.

Ignatius "Nate" Ramirez is not only a scarred fire-jumper with a justifiably bad attitude toward women, he’s also under strict orders by his Captain that if he doesn’t get laid on his vacation, he’s going to bench him. After finding out about 1Night Stand, he requests Madame Evangeline find him the perfect fantasy woman to have under the cover of darkness. Figuring he’ll have a better chance with his date with all the lights out, he wasn’t expecting a feisty, no punches pulled heiress to knock him off his feet.

A blind woman and a scarred fire-jumper should be a match made in heaven, but will Nate and Xaviera manage to leave their baggage at the door and find love all in one night.

Review:
What a great short story!!  It had just the right amount of, well just about everything.  Blink Need had anguish, turmoil, sex, passion and it was all wrapped up nicely in a really quick short read.
 
Nate is frustrated and angry about people’s perception of him and his injuries.  Xaviera is determined to give up men all together. Well she will after one last night of passion, believing no man wants “damaged goods”. 
The pain these two people feel is front and center.  The conflict is placed perfectly.  It felt natural and not over the top.  I enjoyed that there was no drawn out misunderstandings and over exaggerated anger, just direct and to the point.  It was nice when the two of them finally came together, it was special and WOW are they a vocal couple.  They fit together wonderfully.
As with most of the stories in the 1 Night Stand series, all you can do is wave good bye to the characters and wish them luck.  That is exactly what I want for Xaviera and Nate.  They are two tortured souls that have come together to heal and all I want for them is the best.  Thank you Ms. Trace.  Blind Need is a wonderful take on the 1NS series and is simply delightful.


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.

Celestial Seduction by Jessica E Subject

Title: Celestial Seduction

Author: Jessica E. Subject

Sub-Genre(s): Erotic, Sci-fi, Paranormal

Publisher: Decadent Publishing

Publication Date: June 29, 2011

ISBN #: B0058V67G2

Format: eBook from Author

Reviewer: tsteinerid

Rating: 5 Cups

Blurb:*

At the end of his obligated commitment to the Space Service, Frey Berger decides to stay on Earth to further experience human emotions rather than return to Ginnun where his intended has already mated with another. Looking for real love and someone to accept him for what he is, Frey enlists in Madame Evangeline’s popular dating service. Although he does not understand the concept of a one-night stand, he hopes to find his perfect mate. If he fails, he risks being alone on Earth for the rest of his life.

Carrie Cooper’s husband divorced her for another woman who could provide him with children, leaving her with little self-confidence and no desire to let a man hurt her again. When her best friend convinces her to join a dating service, Carrie decides one night of passion is harmless since there’s no commitment after the night is over.

Although several misunderstandings nearly derail them before the date even begins, Frey and Carrie end up closer than they ever believed possible. Still, Frey needs to convince Carrie her perfect mate isn’t human at all, and that one night can lead to a forever love.

Review:
This was a delightful solid 5 Cups for me.  Writing is exciting and new, not to mention sizzling hot. 
Frey Berger is actually traveling where no Ginnun has ever traveled before.  No not Earth, he is already here.  He is traveling into the world of feelings and emotions.  He wants to experience sensual sex and a mate that will love him for the rest of his life.  On his planet, emotions are never shown or felt.  Frey has always felt different, like he never belonged.  He wants to be loved and to love back.  After his intended mate marries his best friend, he does something no one on his planet would ever expect.  He decides to stay on Earth indefinitely and find a human mate.
Carrie was crushed the moment her high school sweetheart left her.  Crushed again, when he remarried and then once more when they had a baby together.  A baby she would never be able to have.  After her best friend, Tamara, talks her into using Madame Eve’s 1 Night Stand dating services, all she can do is second guess herself.  Her confidence is beyond low.  Then in walks a sex god, maybe things are looking up.
Their single night of courtship is a rocky one.  One problem or mishap after another, but you can tell that they have something amazing together.  Frey knows that Carrie is the woman for him, now he needs to help her believe that.  After a night of passion, Carrie moves on thinking Frey is committed for only one night.  Now he is in a race to change her mind and heal her heart ache.  He needs to convince her to accept a life with him as his mate.
These two lovers were wonderful.  You could almost feel Frey and Carrie’s insecurities.  Ms. Subject did a great job conveying their emotions and pulling me into their heads.  The writing was tight and the flow was smooth.  Celestial Seduction is a great addition to the series.  I like that most every genre is covered with this series.  Decadent Publishing hit a home run when they thought of 1NS.
Always nagging at the back of my mind while reading this book is…does her best friend have a story?  I am going to have to do a massive search to find out, because it sure sounds like it would be a different take on the normal “happily ever after” that the series is known for.
Celestial Seduction is a sensual sci-fi addition to the 1NS series.  This story is refreshing and shouldn’t be missed.  There is nothing like a hot alien finding his intended mate here on Earth.  So grab this quick read, you won’t be sorry.  I sure wasn’t!


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.

Dirk's Love (Roxie's Protectors) by Marisa Chenery

Title: Dirk's Love (Roxie's Protectors)

Author: Marisa Chenery

Sub-Genre(s): Paranormal, Werewolves, Romance

Publisher: Summerhouse Publishing

Publication Date: December 30, 2011

ISBN #: B006RP1VBE

Format: eBook from Author

Reviewer: tsteinerid

Rating: 4 Cups

Blurb:*

Dirk has worked tirelessly on creating an online dating service to help male werewolves find their mortal mates. Having hired a mortal female to assist him, when he meets her face-to-face for the very first time, Dirk is smitten by her beauty and finds himself breathless as he realizes the very thing he’s spent a lifetime looking for is finally within his reach…setting his mating urge off in an instant.

Ryann, completely absorbed with raising her precious son for the last two years, has been without a man in her life for far too long. But when she sees Dirk in person for the very first time, and he reawakens the sexual cravings of her neglected body, Ryann hungers not only for his touch, but also yearns for the day her new boss will think of her as more than just his employee.

Review:
At nine hundred and fifty years old Dirk is ready for love.  He has been watching his fellow protectors find their mates and he is taking his future into his own hands.  He has developed a computer program to find the perfect mate.  He decides to start an online dating service to help others like him trying to find the perfect match, their mate.  He never expected her to be right under his nose the whole time.
 
Dirk’s Love falls right in line with the rest of this series, Roxy’s Protectors.  They are quick, heated and just plain fun.  He is the last of the protectors to find love and just might be the most ready.  From the moment Dirk and Ryann meet, there is sizzling chemistry.  That is the way it is with this take on werewolf lore; the mating urge is unbelievably strong and instant.
 
Attraction on the human side is confusing but just as hot.  Ryann has no clue why she is so attracted to this man, but her body and mind tell her to run to him not walk.
 
Dirk’s Love is a very quick read.  I would recommend that you enjoy this series right from the very beginning, even before the first Roxie’s Protectors book.  Start with Beowulf and Roxie; book one inWulf’s Den series.  These two series complement each other wonderfully and should be enjoyed in order from start to finish.  All the stories are short, but very enjoyable.  They are all connected and Ms. Chenery has built an exciting universe centered loosely on the foretold one; the one person who rules over all the werewolf packs.
 
I honestly don’t know if this is the last of the series in Roxie’s Protectors, being Dirk is the last of the official protectors to find their mate.  I can see the possibility of at least one more “kinda” member left to find love.  The story of Roxie is in no way over, so we might be enjoying another arc in the storyline.  Either way I’ll be right there waiting.  I have enjoyed this book and the entire series.  I hope you will too.


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.

Midnight Playground by Eliza Gayle

Title: Midnight Playground

Author: Eilza Gayle

Sub-Genre(s): BDSM, Contemporary, Menage

Publisher: Loose ID

Publication Date: December 7, 2010

ISBN #: B004LZ539I

Format: eBook from Author

Reviewer: tsteinerid

Rating: 3 Cups

Blurb:*

Eve's desperate denial only means one thing...she has a lot to learn.

Eve Blake has been working at Altered Ego, a studio specializing in fetish photography, for three months when a custom order comes in for a plus-sized redhead. Ready for an adventure, she volunteers for the job. Chase, her boss, reluctantly accepts. Maybe pretending to be a sexual slave for Chase's camera will get her one step closer to the two men she thinks can satisfy even her darkest needs.

Chase can't believe he's agreed to this deal. The cardinal rule in any business is not to get involved with your employees and that includes your sexy receptionist. He and his partner Murphy learned that lesson the hard way. Now Chase has a hunch the first time they touch their rope to Eve's creamy flesh, there will be no turning back. They'll have to have her.

One shoot leads to another and Eve finds herself at a playground at midnight. When the scene takes a dark turn, Eve sinks deeper into sensation at the hands of two masters who push for her ultimate surrender. Will she reach the limit of how far she can go, or will the ties that bind form bonds of love?

Review:
What can I say about a sexy, hot BDSM story?  There is something about a strong man, but when you have two...WHEW things are going to get really HOT!
 
I was intrigued by the promise of a plus-sized woman being the center of a love triangle.  What I found was somewhat intense scenes that I couldn’t connect with.  The story as a whole is rough yet tame, dark but light.  I liked it but I didn’t.  Isn’t that confusing?
 
Chase seemed like the easy going of the two men.  He ended up being rude and sometimes just cruel.  He is a tortured soul, but there is only so much a woman should have to take.
 
Now Murphy….he’s a true sadist at heart.  I never for one second thought I would like a sadist.  Just the idea of someone inflicting real pain on someone for the pleasure of it,   ahhh *shudders*.  I really liked him, well him as a man and companion.  Now him as a lover, nope still kind of scares me.
 
Eve, Eve, Eve.  Let’s see, she wants to live again and she has feelings for two amazingly sexy men.  What woman wouldn’t be attracted to the virility and dominance of Chase and Murphy?  She really did bite off more then she could chew, but handled it with her head held high.  Was her story believable…I’m not sure.  You will have to read Midnight Playground to make your own determination.
 
Midnight Playground was still a good story.  The BDSM scenes were well written, with some new and surprising elements.  They are definitely not the tender loving but tough, give and take exchanges that you find in other erotica books.  There was pleasure/pain with a whole lot of bite.  Be warned they are a bit rough with her, both physically and emotionally, but since I have no experience in the lifestyle, I really can’t gauge the truthfulness of scenes.  Don’t get me wrong.  The scenes are not out of this world, scary and brutal, just a bit rougher then the norm.  I have read some forceful scenes, but I think these scenes tap more into the emotional elements.  I will also say there were basic reasons for the scene elements too.  Though they could be very rough on Eve, there were moments of complete and utter tenderness.
 
So, I would have to say if you like your BDSM books with a bit more GRRRR, read Midnight Playgrounds.  Even though I had mixed feelings about the characters, I am still glad I did!


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.