Mahalia Levey, Shut Up and Kiss Me

Title:  Shut Up and Kiss Me

Author:  Mahalia Levey

Rating:  Four Siren Stones

Genre:  Contemporary Romance

Keywords:  Rock ‘n’ Roll, Sexy Drummer, Rock Band

Word Count:  30,314       

ISBN E-Book:  978-1-61885-220-5

Price:  $3.99

Publisher:  Secret Cravings Publishing

Buy-Link:  http://store.secretcravingspublishing.com/index.php?main_page=book_info&cPath=4&products_id=289

Reviewer:  Stacey Krug

Blurb/Summary:

Brought up in a traditional family Carrie Stevens fights the bounds of propriety and flaunts her deviance with no regard to personal consequences. With one exception…her big brother’s wishes where his band is concerned. The sparks that fly when she’s around the one taboo she’d love to date are only a tempting siren’s song, until she sees there’s more to Shea than she’d originally thought. The sexy drummer might just make her lose her heart, if he can put her past to rest.

Shea McNamara has been in love with Carrie Stevens for years. Running in the same circle as her isn't easy. Her choice in men irks him but she's in his blood as much as the drums he loves to beat. All he has to do is convince her there’s more to life than the fast lane. With her flirty attitude he refuses to allow her to call the shots.

Review:

This story gives the reader a great view as to what the rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle for men might be like.  Carrie and Shea are the main characters with a wonderful supporting cast.  Carrie is a quirky girl that acts out a lot for attention and to stand apart from her family and twin sister.  Shea on the other hand has found his path and knows what he wants in life.  The two share sparks and fire, igniting each other’s passion.

Shut Up and Kiss Me is an erotic story that is light, humorous, and sexy.  Any man that can cook is definitely sexy and Shea fits the bill.  Carrie and Shea have many humorous moments that will leave the reader smiling.  There is a great balance between these two characters.

The supporting cast of siblings, parents, and friends all bring something unique to the story and help it feel realistic.  There are so many possibilities that could follow from the set up at the end of the book that I will definitely be looking for Ms. Levey’s next instalment of this series.

Title:  Spirit of the Rebellion

Author:  Debbie Peterson

Rating:  Four Siren Stones

Genre: Fantasy

Keywords:  Faery Rose, Sensual 

Page Count:  354       

ISBN E-Book:  d5167 

Price:  $5.99

ISBN for Print:  978-1-61217-024-4

Price:  $14.99

Publisher:  The Wild Rose Press

Buy-Link:  http://www.thewildrosepress.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=177_139&products_id=4792

Reviewer:  Nikki

Blurb/Summary:

Souls touch and emotions flare when a historian and an embittered spirit form an unlikely alliance to investigate the centuries-old riddle surrounding his death...

Ready for a fresh chapter in her life, Shae Lynn Montgomery accepts a job translating a cache of Civil War documents from Wisconsin's famous Norwegian regiment.  The assignment takes her to Chickamauga's haunted Starling Plantation and face-to-face with a handsome captain--its angry ghost in residence.

Tristan Jordahl, falsely accused of treason, has no use for the living--not even the lovely translator invading his home.  Despite Tristan's best efforts to frighten her, Shae Lynn refuses to leave, and reluctantly, Tristan enlists her help to clear his name. But as they grow closer to the truth--and to each other--an evil spirit makes it clear he will do anything to stop them.

Can a love that transcends time overcome all obstacles?

Review:

I truly enjoy stories like these- the obstacles that two people living a world apart face to be together after finding one another in the strangest of happenings.  So many questions run through my mind as I read the pages.  Spirit of the Rebellion is no different.  This lovely written story captured my attention with its wonderful characters, intense plot, and well written structure.  Good ghost romance stories are hard to come by, but this one is a definite keeper!  Tristan and Shae Lynn have a long way to go before they can find peace and happiness, and the story they take is one not to be missed!  Get your copy today. 

Vonnie Hughes, Lethal Refuge

Title:  Lethal Refuge

Author:  Vonnie Hughes

Rating:  Three And A Half Siren Stones

Genre:  Romantic Suspense

Keywords:  Crimson Rose, Spicy 

Page Count:  256       

ISBN E-Book:  d6236

Price:  $4.99

ISBN for Print:  1-60154-996-2

Price:  $12.99

Publisher:  The Wild Rose Press

Buy-Link:  http://www.thewildrosepress.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=137&products_id=4728

Reviewer:  Nikki

Blurb/Summary:

Abused and abandoned as a child, Célie Francis knows better than to trust anyone. But after she witnesses a murder, she's placed in the Unit "New Zealand's witness protection program" where she's expected to trust strangers with her life.

It's psychologist Brand Turner's job to ease witnesses into their new identities, not to protect them, but Célie stirs feelings in him that are far from professional. When it appears someone is leaking critical information that could endanger Célie, Brand will do anything to protect her. But first he has to convince her to trust him.

Adrift in a frightening world, Célie would like to believe the handsome psychologist is everything he seems, but as witnesses are murdered and danger swirls around them, Célie must decide "can she trust Brand with her life?

Review:

A witness struggling to cope, a man who needs to stay away and can't seem to keep his personal feelings separated...welcome to Lethal Refuge.  This is an emotional and thrilling romantic suspense novel.  Célie and Brand make a great couple, but there is so much the pair has to overcome to get ahead in a future together- including keeping Célie's identity and making sure she is safe.  A heated romance, staying ahead of danger, these elements make for a nail biting thrill ride.  Ms. Hughes delivers a tale that captures reader's hearts.  If you're a fan of romantic suspense, keep this story in mind. 

Melissa Murphy, Secrets of the Gentleman Thief

Title:  Secrets of the Gentleman Thief

Author:  Melissa Murphy

Rating:  Four Siren Stones

Genre:  Fantasy

Keywords:  Faery Rose, Spicy

Page Count:  332       

ISBN E-Book:  d5528

Price:  $5.99

ISBN for Print:  978-1-61217-013-8

Price:  $14.99

Publisher:  The Wild Rose Press

Buy-Link:  http://www.thewildrosepress.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=177_139&products_id=4736

Reviewer:  Nikki

Blurb/Summary:

Fear:  Alisa Fenton embarks on a quest to conquer her irrational fear of the mystical Dark Forest near her home. When her brother William goes missing and Alisa searches for him, she realizes the forest and his disappearance are connected.

Secrets:  Lord Daniel Emerson, an agent who steals artifacts for a secret government organization, is also looking for Alisa's brother. He suspects William, a fellow agent, may be in the hands of the enemy, and believes Alisa knows more than she's telling.

Murder:  A killer, intent on silencing anyone connected to William, closes in, forcing Alisa and Daniel to flee.

In seclusion, their passion ignites, reawakening the childhood trauma lurking in Alisa's subconscious and stirring Daniel's secret guilt concerning a woman from his past. Can Alisa and Daniel overcome their fear of betrayal long enough to stop a sinister plot...and, more importantly, find the solace they both desire?

Review:

Need a story full of romance, deceit, and an out of this world experience?  Try Secrets of the Gentleman Thief.  Its different, unique storyline is a breath of fresh air from the same old type of stories out there.  I'm always looking for new genres and books to read, this one didn't disappoint.  I love Alisa, she's so strong willed, and portrays a great lead.  Following her story and troubles was such a delight.  Daniel also intrigues me.  There's just something about a hero that has a mysterious past and is shown to us that way.  But as readers learn more and more about him, the easier it is to fall in love with his character!

There's so much to this book- romance, action, secrets, mystery, fantasy...there's really a bit of something to please the eclectic romance reader, and you don't even have to get it from various stories.  It's all right here in this one!  Check it out; you may be surprised at how much you'll want more. 

Tess Morrison, Kissing Livvy

 Title:  Kissing Livvy

Author:  Tess Morrison

Rating:  Four And A Half Siren Stones

Genre:  Contemporary Romance

Keywords:  Champagne Rose, Sensual, Butternut Creek Series

Page Count:  276       

ISBN E-Book:  978-1-61217-157-9

Price:  $5.50

ISBN for Print:  978-1-61217-032-9 

Price:  $13.99

Publisher:  The Wild Rose Press

Buy-Link:  http://www.thewildrosepress.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=175_133&products_id=4751

Reviewer:  Nikki

Blurb/Summary:

[Butternut Creek Series]

After years of bouncing between foster homes, Livvy Sherman’s one attempt at commitment blew apart with a resounding thud and she ran.  Landing smack in the middle of the Tully family was not what this free-spirit counted on..

 Lumberjack Jesse Tully’s life was a dumping ground for nothing but commitment and responsibility. With a disapproving father, a troubled teenager, a crabby grandma and a struggling family business weighing on him, the last thing Jesse needed was this hippy-dippy protestor on his doorstep.

Funny thing, the one person with little family experience brings his dysfunctional family together.  It's what Jesse and his family teach Livvy about life, love and commitment that nearly brings her to her knees.  Once again, the open road looks mighty attractive.  Will the one thing that she fears the most be the very thing that saves her?

Review:

What will it take to tame a free spirit?  Could it be a few mishaps, and staying with a family so dysfunctional they could make a sitcom out of their life?  Maybe....

Livvy finds herself in a predicament.  She runs from her life after a discovery. She's branded with a group of people with intentions that may be good, but aren't presented well.  But for some reason, Jesse keeps her by his side instead of turning her in.

Jesse's got a lot on his plate.  He's a bit gruff, rough around the edges, but with all he deals with, it's understandable.  Though he has a soft spot for Livvy, which opens a door for unexpected possibilities.

Kissing Livvy is a wonderful, witty and fun contemporary romance.  You can really tell that the characters grow from the start to the ending and the journey in between charges the emotions of readers.  It sure did for me.  I'm glad I got a chance to read this book.  Tess Morrison creates a world I didn't want to leave, but enjoyed the ride the entire time. 

Hannah Murray, One Hit Wonderful

Title:  One Hit Wonderful

Author:  Hannah Murray

Rating:  Four Siren Stones

Genre:  Contemporary Romance

Keywords:  Bridesmaid, Jilted Bride 

Length:  Novel       

ISBN E-Book:  978-1419937262

Price:  $5.95

Publisher:  Ellora’s Cave 

Buy-Link:  http://www.jasminejade.com/p-9838-one-hit-wonderful.aspx

Reviewer:  Nikki

Blurb/Summary:

Being a bridesmaid is a dull job. But when the groom gets caught with his cummerbund around his ankles, dull isn’t in the cards.

Lily Michaels is happy to help her best friend cancel her wedding. But since the groom with the broken nose is also her landlord, it means she’s looking for a new apartment. Enter Nate MacIntyre—former boy-band member and current composer—his mostly St. Bernard dog Beau and the apartment over their garage. Nate is sexy, Beau is adorably charming and the apartment is gorgeous. Things are looking up!

But things get complicated when Max, the former groom, starts hassling Lily for the location of his jilted bride. Nate thinks Max is dangerous, Lily thinks Nate is silly, and while she’s enjoying where her attraction to him is going, her independent streak simply won’t let her lean on him too much. What do you get when you mix an overprotective man, an independent woman and the confusion that comes with falling in love? Whatever it is, it’s not dull.

Review:

Life is complicated, love is risky, and the path to finding it can be quite the thrill ride.

One Hit Wonderful delivers a fun-filled, emotional journey.  The heroine, Lily, is thrown into a tricky situation, and the turn of events afterwards take her down the road to finding some unexpected love waiting for her in the end.  Lily is feisty, stubborn and strong willed.  I like that about her.  She doesn't get the greatest first impression of Nathan, her soon to be new landlord.

I like a musician, and Nathan fits the bill perfectly.  He had a small bout with fame, and now continues to make music, but isn't as well known.  He didn't get the greatest impression of Lily, either, but the two sure changed their opinions when she rents out his apartment!

I enjoyed this story.  The characters, the plot, and the wit were spot on.  One Hit Wonderful is a novel not to be missed if you enjoy a little bit of everything mixed into one great read. 

Joya Fields, Beneath the Surface

Title:  Beneath the Surface

Author:   Joya Fields

Rating:  Four Siren Stones 

Genre:  Romantic Suspense

Keywords:  Crimson Rose, Spicy

Page Count:  252     

ISBN E-Book:  978-1-61217-004-6

Price:  $4.99

ISBN for Print:  978-1612170046

Price:  $12.99

Publisher:  The Wild Rose Press

Buy-Link:  http://www.thewildrosepress.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=137&products_id=4733

Reviewer:  Nikki

Blurb/Summary:

She's fighting to stay independent--he's determined to protect her no matter what...

Brooke Richards survived the earthquake that took her parents and most of her leg, but she needs time to regroup. A trip to Florida for a state-of-the-art prosthesis and to visit her best friend Linda seems ideal. But the trip turns traumatic when Brooke witnesses Linda's boat disintegrating in a fiery explosion.

Police Officer Garrett Ciavello believes the blast was intentionally set to hide something Linda found on a dive. When Brooke offers her expertise in underwater archeology, Garrett accepts her help with the investigation. But since his fiancée's death years ago, Garrett has become overprotective, and as they are drawn to each other, Garrett realizes he will risk anything to keep Brooke safe.

Brooke is fiercely independent. Garrett is fiercely protective. Will they heal each other's wounds and find a killer...before it's too late?

Review:

Need a suspenseful, action packed story filled with emotion?  Beneath the Surface offers that and so much more.  The characters, Brooke and Garrett, have seen a lot of loss and heartache in their life.  A cruel twist of fate brings them together, but there is so much they have to overcome to be together.  Their own fears, plus stay ahead of a killer. 

I love the way Brooke and Garrett are portrayed.  They are easy to relate to, which makes them real and likable.  The pacing is great, so many twists and turns in the plot and it kept me going.  The suspense is heart-stopping and overall this story is great!  Joya Fields weaves a tale of intrigue that romantic suspense readers can enjoy.  Add this one to your to be read pile today! 

Doreen Alsen, Charming Dave

Title:  Charming Dave
Author:  Doreen Alsen
Rating:  Five Siren Stones

Genre:  Contemporary Romance

Keywords:  Champagne Rose, Spicy

Page Count:  292     

ISBN E-Book:  1-60154-994-6

Price:  $6.50

ISBN for Print:  978-1601549945

Price:  $13.99

Publisher:  The Wild Rose Press

Buy-Link:  http://www.thewildrosepress.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=175_133&products_id=4724

Reviewer:  Nikki

Blurb/Summary:

[At The End Zone]

Ainslie Logan has left her life as a trophy-wife behind and moved her family north to escape the scandal created by her ex-husband. Lacking work experience but rich in determination she lands a job at the local sports bar, The End Zone.

Dave Mason, principal of the town’s high school, frequents the End Zone and is not a fan of the clumsy new waitress. Things suddenly change when he finds himself enamored by a woman who will stop at nothing to protect her children.

Now Dave has to use all his charms to convince Ainslie and her children happy endings do exist and that it’s safe to love again.

Review:

I am absolutely loving these At The End Zone books!  Doreen Alsen creates beautiful stories that I can't get enough of.  This book features Dave and Ainslie. At first, the two don't get off to a good start.  Ainslie is new at being a waitress, and Dave doesn't know her history.  But when she goes to talk to the principal about one of her children, what a surprise to find it is Dave.

The chemistry between the two is hot!  The story is so well done I was caught up in the moment and forgot about everything else.  I loved Ainslie's kids, and the reader gets to know them through their point of view a few times.  So far, this is my favorite of the series.

If you enjoy contemporary romance, I'd advise you to hurry and get a copy of Charming Dave.  I bet it will charm you and sweep you right off your feet!

Christine DePetrillo, Abra Cadaver

Title:  Abra Cadaver

Author:  Christine DePetrillo

Rating:  Four And A Half Siren Stones

Genre: Paranormal

Keywords:  Black Rosebud, Spicy

Page Count:  203       

ISBN E-Book:  d5748

Price:  $5.50

Publisher:  The Wild Rose Press

Buy-Link:  http://www.thewildrosepress.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=177_136&products_id=4723

Reviewer:  Nikki

Blurb/Summary:

Holly Brimmer never expected to be brought back from the dead. After a fatal car crash, a mysterious stranger gives her a second chance at life—but it comes with a price. To stay alive she must pay it forward, accomplish an important deed, thus making her mark in the world. Until she does, her savior is bound to her. Now she has a backyard full of dead bodies and one unwanted houseguest. 

Keane Malson kills bad guys to keep the innocent alive, but he’s still a monster. Cursed by a witch moments before an honorable death on the battlefield, he’s lived thousands of years, roaming from place to place with no end in sight. It’s a lonely life…until he meets Holly.   

When a wanted man targets Holly, Keane will do anything to protect her, even if it’s the last thing he ever does.

Review:

There's a second chance at stake, even after death.  It's not a chance people normally get, but somehow, some way, Holly was lucky (or unlucky, depending on the day and how she feels) enough to get that second chance. 

But it comes with a price.  Since then, Holly has been different.  She's not sure how she feels about being alive when her time was supposed to have ended.  Holly is an interesting character, and the situations that she faces sometimes have funny moments in them.  I love how she is portrayed and how she handles these things.

Keane is an intriguing character.  He's mysterious, and I feel bad for him with his curse.  He's pretty hard on himself, and Holly really changes his life.  He reminds me of Beast from the Beauty and the Beast movie - the whole curse, he calls himself a monster and therefore hides away.

Abra Cadaver is an interesting story with a unique plot, fun characters, plenty of suspense, and lots of witty dialogue.  I found myself smiling and giggling quite a few times.  I didn't want to see the story end just because I wasn't ready to let go of these characters quite yet.  This is the kind of story I will be seeking for a reread in the future.

If you like paranormal romances with plenty of fun don't miss Abra Cadaver.