Blog Tour: Helena Hunting's "Making Up (Shacking Up #4)."

The Hopeless Romantics Book Blog are pleased to be part of the Blog Tour for Helena Hunting's "Making Up (Shacking Up #4)."

Amazon.com: https://amzn.to/2xEiQEf
Amazon UK:   https://amzn.to/2YORUgT

Synopsis: 

Cosy Felton is great at her job—she knows just how to handle the awkwardness that comes with working at an adult toy store. So when the hottest guy she’s ever seen walks into the shop looking completely overwhelmed, she’s more than happy to turn on the charm and help him purchase all of the items on his list.

Griffin Mills is using his business trip in Las Vegas as a chance to escape the broken pieces of his life in New York City. The last thing he wants is to be put in charge of buying gag gifts for his friend’s bachelor party. Despite being totally out of his element, and mortified by the whole experience, Griffin is pleasantly surprised when he finds himself attracted to the sales girl that helped him.

As skeptical as Cosy may be of Griffin’s motivations, there’s something about him that intrigues her. But sometimes what happens in Vegas doesn’t always stay in Vegas and when real life gets in the way, all bets are off. Filled with hilariously awkward situations and enough sexual chemistry to power Sin City, Making Up is the next standalone in the Shacking Up world. 

Review: Jo 

This was another Helena Hunting novel that left me with a huge smile on my face and a heart fit to burst. Cosy and Griffin’s story had so many things that I loved. From the first page to the last, I remained fully engrossed and adored everything that I read.

"If I had a checklist with boxes to tick off, 

you would be the person who would appear at the end

 of the quiz as my perfect match."

The thing that I enjoyed the most about this book were the two main characters. I loved Cosy, she was such a great heroine. Smart, feisty and not at all dazzled by Griffin's money or charm. I liked the way in which she made Griffin work for her attention and she didn’t just fall at his feet. Cosy didn’t care one bit that he was older or that he came from a wealthy family. Cosy just wasn’t impressed by that sort of thing. Of course, I also adored Griffin. He was so dreamy and lovely and was not afraid to wear his heart on his sleeve when it came to Cosy. I love it when the guy does the chasing. 

"Our lives are so different."

"And yet, you still manage to be the best part of the mine." 

Griffin and Cosy’s romance was one that was steamy and passionate. It also had a fair few ups and downs resulting in a few heart racing moments. As the book title suggests, Griffin and Cosy had a little bit of making up to do as the story progressed. At times, I found it difficult to put my kindle down, especially for the latter part of the story. And when I reached the end, Helena finished the book perfectly with a beautiful epilogue that made my heart soar. I’m already looking forward to my next read from Helena. 

"You're the only person I want to road trip through this life with." 

“Making Up” gets 4.5 ❤️’s from me.

Excerpt: 

We’re a couple of minutes away from my apartment, which also means we’re almost at the end of our date. End-of-date protocol often means a goodnight kiss. And I’ve eaten onions. Lots of them. What the hell was I thinking? I feel around in my shorts pocket, hoping I have a random stick of gum. I find a tiny square packet and pull it out, along with an old tissue. I shove that back in my pocket and sigh with relief as I carefully open the Listerine Pocketpak. There’s one strip left. I pop it in my mouth,

wishing I had water since my mouth is dry and I’m suddenly super nervous. Griffin pulls up in front of my apartment building. I swallow a bunch of times, trying to get the strip to dissolve on my tongue and glance out the tinted window, seeing it from his perspective. I don’t live in a bad part of town, but I sure as hell wouldn’t leave this car sitting out here for any length of time unless I wanted it keyed or stripped down. Griffin shifts into park and turns to me, one hand resting on the back of my seat

near the headrest. 

“I had a great time, Cosy.” 

“Me too, thanks for dinner.” 

I tried to fork over my share, but he was quick on the credit card draw. 

“It was my pleasure.” 

He leans in the tiniest bit, a nonverbal cue that he’s going in for a kiss. I mirror the movement, giving him the go ahead. My stomach flutters in anticipation. I exhale slowly through my nose. Even though the Listerine strip should be doing its job to mask the onions, I don’t want to ruin the moment by breathing that in his

face.

His fingertips skim my jaw, and I close my eyes. And then his lips brush my cheek. I wait for them to move a couple of inches to the right, but after what feels like a lot of seconds—and is probably only a few—I crack a lid. Griffin is still close, a wry smile on his lips and a smolder in his eyes.

“Seriously, that’s it? A kiss on the cheek?”

His smile widens, making his eyes crinkle at the corners. He’s nothing like the guys I usually end up on dates with. College boys don’t take things slow. If I were out with one of the guys from school, I’d be sitting in a beat-up Civic with some stupid music playing, and he’d be all over me with his tongue halfway down my throat, copping a feel.

“I thought all the onions you ate were the equivalent to garlic for vampires.”

Griffin fingers my hair near my shoulder. I’d really like him to finger something else. Wait. I mean I’d like to feel his hands on me. Not in my pants. Okay, maybe I’d like them in my pants, but not after date number one.

“I wasn’t thinking, and I really like onions. A lot. In hindsight, it’s not a great date food. I feel kinda dumb. And I guess at first I wasn’t so sure about you. How was I supposed to know you’d actually be kind of normalish?”

“Normalish?”

“Well, you drink club soda on purpose, so you can’t be all there.” I tap his temple. Griffin circles my wrist with his fingers and drops his head, lips brushing over my knuckle. “We can’t all be perfect, now, can we?”

“I suppose not, and perfect is boring.”

“That it is.” He hums against my skin, and I feel it through my entire body. “I would like to try that kiss again, if you’re still interested.”

About Helena Hunting: 

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of PUCKED, Helena Hunting lives on the outskirts of Toronto with her incredibly tolerant family and two moderately intolerant cats. She writes contemporary romance ranging from new adult angst to romantic sports comedy.

Buy-Book Link: https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250253378

Website→ http://www.helenahunting.com/

Amazon → http://amzn.to/1y6OBB7

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Blog Tour: C.D. Reiss's "Only Ever You."

The Hopeless Romantics Book Blog are pleased to be part of the Blog Tour for C.D. Reiss's "Only Ever You."

Amazon.com: https://amzn.to/2xNEjuB

Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/2XCXAck

Synopsis:

Rachel knew exactly what turning thirty would be like. She had a plan, after all. First college, then a climb up the professional ladder. Love, marriage, children. All of it was on the schedule.

The cheap Hollywood apartment wasn’t on the list. Neither was the string of heartbreaks. Or the effect her mother’s cancer had on her career.

It’s hard to stay practical and on point when everything takes a left turn.

Enter Sebastian, the nerd across the street. The boy she defended when he couldn’t defend himself. The best friend she promised she’d marry if life didn’t go according to plan.

Not only is he successful, confident, and gorgeous, but he also still has their handwritten marriage contract.

No one goes through with childhood wedding pacts.

That’s crazy.

But their families might just be crazy enough to rent a hall and set a date. All Rachel and Sebastian have to do is fall in love.

Review: Jo

I loved this fresh take on the childhood friends-to-lovers trope. A little bit steamy and a lot of gorgeous romance followed by probably the most perfect epilogue that I’ve read in a while. There wasn’t anything that I didn’t enjoy about this wonderful standalone novel.

"He wasn't new to me. He was the best part of my past."

Sebastian and Rachel had been the best of childhood friends, but as adults they had both gone their separate ways and lost touch. This story sees the pair reconnecting again, which was then followed by a bit of a slow burning romance that had my hooked. The thing that I liked the most about this novel was how much Sebastian was able to melt my heart. He truly was the most swoon-worthy guy, doing everything he could to show Rachel how much he loved her and had always loved her. I found the character development of the pair really interesting. As children, Rachel was the heroine, protecting Sebastian whenever he needed it, however over the years, time had changed both Rachel and Sebastian making Rachel the one that now lacked confidence in herself and needed support. Their roles had completely reversed and Sebastian was more than happy to be the hero. 

"Rachel was an open book with a single word on the page. Fear."

Together Rachel and Sebastian were a meant-to-be couple. They were so good for one another and I rooted for them throughout the entire story. A beautiful romance and CD Reiss’s amazing writing made this one well worth the read. 

"Of everything in the world that was right, giving myself to him was the rightest. 

Success or failure, I could be anything with him at my side."

“Only Ever You” gets 4.5 ❤️’s from me.

Excerpt:

“Plan a wedding?” he asked. “Just because it’ll make you happy?”

My first instinct was to minimize. Call it nothing. Say the plans didn’t have to be big. We could just say we were getting married in city hall in three years.

But I was committed to the pitch, and that meant no backpedaling.

“Yes. The whole thing. A hall. A band. A long white dress. A honeymoon in Paris. It’s all talk, but if we’re going to talk, we might as well talk big.”

“You really want to do this?” he whispered.

Did I? No, I didn’t. But even though it was an insane lie for an intangible result, something about it felt ambitious. As if fake dating him was fine and dandy but faking a marriage was reaching for the stars. Thinking small hadn’t gotten me anywhere. Somehow, this was going for the glory.

Leaning in to me, he breathed on my cheek. The arm he’d draped over the railing stroked my hair. His lips moved to my jaw while he caressed the back of my neck.

“Let’s do it,” I said. My brain had become completely untethered from my body. I would have said yes if he’d promised me a plate of chicken.

He kissed me, and for a second I didn’t kiss him back. I was too stunned at his gentleness. I was a feather pillow, bending under him, barely holding my shape.

I was going to regret this. He was handsome. He was a wonderful person. I wanted to kiss him. A little pucker. A little change in the angle of my head. A taste of his tongue on mine. A little groan I had no control over before we were in full make out.

Oh my God. My body was praying for more, and my mind was reminding me not to get attached because in the end he was still a guy I was attracted to, and guys I was attracted to broke my heart.

“Gross!” Tiffany said from the driveway. Not expecting to hear her so close, we yanked apart. “You’re eating her face, dweeb.”

She rolled her eyes so hard I could only see the whites.

“You came out here to criticize how I kiss my fiancée?”

I coughed.

It was on.

About CD Reiss:

CD Reiss is a New York Times bestseller. She still has to chop wood and carry water, which was buried in the fine print. Her lawyer is working it out with God but in the meantime, if you call and she doesn't pick up she's at the well hauling buckets.

Born in New York City, she moved to Hollywood, California to get her master's degree in screenwriting from USC. In case you want to know, that went nowhere but it did give her a big enough ego to write novels.

She's frequently referred to as the Shakespeare of Smut which is flattering but hasn't ever gotten her out of chopping that cord of wood.

If you meet her in person, you should call her Christine. 

Connect with CD Reiss:

Amazon: http://amzn.to/2iwpkPQ

Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/cd-reiss

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CDReiss.writer/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/cdreisswriter

Instagram: https://instagram.com/cdreiss/

Website: www.cdreiss.com

Mailing List: https://cdreiss.com/cd-reiss-mailing-list-signup/

For Text Alerts: TEXT “CDREISS” to 77948 

*standard text messaging rates apply* 

Review: Sally Thorne's "99% Mine."

Amazon.com: https://amzn.to/2KY8Vln

Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/2JciSda

Synopsis: 

Crush (n.): a strong and often short-lived infatuation, particularly for someone beyond your reach . . .

Darcy Barrett has undertaken a global survey of men. She's travelled the world, and can categorically say that no one measures up to Tom Valeska, whose only flaw is that he's her twin brother's best friend - oh, and that 99 percent of the time, he hasn't seemed interested in her. That's the problem with finding her dream man at age eight and peaking in her photography career at age twenty - ever since, she's had to learn to settle for good enough.

When Darcy and Jamie inherit a tumble-down cottage from their grandmother, they're left with strict instructions to bring it back to its former glory and sell the property. Darcy plans to be in an aisle seat halfway across the ocean as soon as the renovations start, but before she can cut and run, she finds a familiar face on her porch: house-flipper extraordinaire Tom's arrived, he's bearing power tools, and he's single for the first time in almost a decade.

Suddenly Darcy's considering sticking around - just to make sure her twin doesn't ruin the cottage's inherent magic with his penchant for chrome. She's definitely not staying because of her new business partner's tight t-shirts, or that perfect face that's inspiring her to pick up her camera again. But sparks start to fly - and not just because of the faulty wiring. Soon, a one percent chance with Tom is no longer enough. This time around, Darcy's switching things up. She's going to make Tom Valeska 99 percent hers.

Review: Jo 

Sally Thorne has done it again. This fabulous author has delivered another romance novel that made me swoon and left me with a beaming smile on my face and a warm giddy feeling in my heart. Oh how I loved Darcy and Tom."99% Mine" made me so joyfully happy.

"I want to kiss Tom Valeska until everything falls apart." 

When I first started this book, I immediately loved the heroine of the story. Darcy was a character that was full of sass and wit. I adored her personality, how confident she appeared to be and how she seemed to be a girl that went for anything she wanted in life. I definitely had a bit of a girl crush on her. During the first part of the book, she was my favourite thing about the story and she was the reason I kept on turning those pages as I really wasn’t sure about Tom. Tom wasn’t the kind of book boyfriend I normally find attractive. I usually love my man to be all out alpha, knowing what he wants and grabbing it with both hands. A man that is confident and sure of himself and I didn’t feel that Tom was that kinda guy. He didn’t give me the feels or make my heart sigh and I have to say that I was a little disappointed. Nevertheless I continued to read on and after a lot of angst and a long slow burn, I was finally seeing some potential in Tom. By the time I reached the final part of the story, I had completely changed my opinion about him and I was feeling all the love for this gorgeous man. I couldn’t believe how the author was able to make my feelings towards Tom change so much.

"He's sweeter than sugar, more delicious than anything I've ever experienced.

 My every birthday-candle wish."

Another thing that I loved about this story was the style of writing. It was an easily quotable read, making me highlight and highlight over and over again. The combination of a brilliant story, characters that I loved and amazing writing all made this a thoroughly enjoyable read. There was even a surprise epilogue that made my day. I wholeheartedly recommend this wonderful romance to anyone that loves a slow burn and a lot of angst. This was another winner from Sally Thorne. 

"Just relax. Let me spoil Darcy Barrett a little. For the rest of her life.

 Let me get a taste of that feeling." 

"99% Mine" gets 4.5 ❤️’s from me.

Review: Raine Miller writing as Brit DeMille "Sin Shot: A Hockey Love Story (Vegas Crush #2)."

AMAZON.COM:  https://amzn.to/2XMAWzo

AMAZON UK:     https://amzn.to/2KO2HDU

Synopsis: 

There's a lot more to me than what I've let on in the public eye. -Georg Kolochev, VEGAS CRUSH 

No, I don't drink vodka straight from the bottle. I don't pour it over my breakfast cereal either. 

I am not in need of an intervention...unless it involves me and a certain blonde bombshell alone in a room with a locking door. 

I've done my fair share of partying, I'll admit. And yes, I've built up something of a reputation with the ladies when not on the ice. That's on me for being careless with my posts on social. And I do know what's most important in my life. 

Two things. 

Hockey...and Pamela Jenson. 

My favorite physical therapist needs me so much more than she knows. 

Because I am the guy delivering her SIN SHOT. 

Yeah, you heard me. 

I'm her first. 

Sinning with Pam has never felt so good. 

**SIN SHOT is a super sexy STANDALONE sports romance about a Russian bad-boy hockey god and a not-so-innocent virginphysical therapist! Things are about to heat up in the therapy room… 

Review: Jo

I was pleasantly surprised by this one. Having met Georg in “Crushed”, I wasn’t particularly a fan of his, and as such didn’t know if I would enjoy this book as much as loved Holly and Evan’s story, but Raine Miller managed to change my mind. I was soon swooning over Georg and how his relationship with Pam was playing out. I ended up loving this novel just as much as “Crushed.” “Sin Shot” did not disappoint.

"You must know I'm in love with you, Pamela.. I love you."

"But I- I didn't know you felt that way abput me."

"How could you not?..."

Georg really was a bad boy. Drinking and women were his favourite off-ice past times. This is why I had such little faith in him. I knew about his meet ups with Pamela during the first book in the series, and I was a little intrigued to know more, but I was also apprehensive, thinking that he would be a difficult boy to crack and end up breaking Pam’s heart. After the swoony delight of Evan and Holly, I was desperate for more of the same. I soon realised I was worrying over nothing, because in this book, I saw a new more mature side of Georg that I had not expected. Georg was pretty soon melting my heart with how he was quickly falling in love with Pam and making changes in his life to be a better man. I loved this new Georg and it warmed my heart to see nothing but good things happening to him.

"I don't know how you managed to be the one to steal my heart but you did." 

I was also happy for Pam. After discovering her back story, I knew how much she needed this new Georg and how special the relationship was. I loved seeing the pair together. I have to admit that I did get a bit frustrated with Pam, especially during the first half of the novel, but the second half more or less flowed like a dream and was finished off with the most gorgeous epilogue. I’m not saying that Pam and Georg’s romance was free from drama, because it wasn’t. However, Pam and Georg were so much in love and I had faith that all would come good in the end.

"I didn't know love like this was even possible for someone like me.

 But with George Kolochev it is. It so is."

“Sin Shot” was another steamy sports romance that I highly recommend. It gets 4.5 ❤️’s from me.

Review: Crushed: Raine Miller writing as Brit DeMille "A Hockey Love Story (Vegas Crush #1)."

Amazon.com: https://amzn.to/2J0lFog

Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/2X2ddPh

Synopsis: 

This may sound reasonable coming from the star winger for the VEGAS CRUSH the day he lays eyes on the new social media manager for the team, but for Holly Laurent it’s a whole different story. Dating a “player” is a risky business, especially if she wants to keep the job she just landed with the hottest team in the NHL. 

Holly loves her independence and her career. She’s doing just fine on her own, thank you very much. Allowing her head to be turned by a hot hockey player and putting her job at risk? 

Not. Happening. Ever. 

Not even if he looks like a god. Not even if he possesses enough charm to tempt the panties from a nun. Not even if she has to cross her fingers behind her back every time she tells him she’s not interested. 

Policies exist for a reason. Rules are not meant to be broken and sexy players are not to be trusted. Right? 

Review: Jo 

I have no idea why I have only just discovered this book. I usually love Raine Miller’s work, so I cant understand how this series had gone unnoticed. It was only with the recent release of "Sin Shot"-Book two in the series, that "Crushed" came to my attention. I immediately clicked it and couldn’t wait to start reading. I love sports romance, and as such I had high hopes and I’m thrilled to say that I enjoyed the hell of this book. Another romance from Raine that ticked so many of my boxes.

"I keep telling myself that I should walk away from a guy like you.” 

“What kind of guy am I?” 

“One who, you know, sleeps with lots of women. Who can’t be tied down.”

This story follows the growing attraction between playboy ice hockey star, Evan and the Vegas Crush team’s new social media manager, Holly. Raine has delivered a story that was steamy, passionate and contained the perfect amount of  drama. Evan and Holly’s romance pulled me in from the very start. I had no problem liking the two main characters and quickly became invested in their blossoming relationship. I especially loved Evan, feeling so sorry for him as he tried to move on from his love 'em and leave 'em reputation and start something more serious with Holly. The poor guys past just wouldn’t stop creeping up and causing problems for the couple. I also loved the sports/ice-hockey parts of the story that added many exciting moments as Evan became the star player of his team.

“Whatever this is between us? It’s not a mistake.” 

In all, this was a story that had me hooked and I read it in only 2 days (It usually takes me around a week). Now I’m ready to start "Sin Shot." I can’t wait. If you love sports romance, this is one not to miss.

"Crushed from the moment I laid eyes on her for the first time. 

Utterly and happily crushed."

“Crushed” gets 4.5 ❤️’s from me.

Jo Watson's "Love You, Love You Not."

Amazon.com: https://amzn.to/2LNVVAi

Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/2JnwzXO

Synopsis: 

There's a fine line between love and hate...

Poppy Peterson is about to be evicted if she doesn't pay her rent. She used to be an actress on a telenovela until her character, Ramona Gonzalez, Executive Administrative Assistant to the CEO, was killed off. Unfortunately, dead characters can't pay the bills.

Ryan Stark is a tough boss - especially if you're his assistant. He's been through five in the last two months and now no one wants to work for him. He needs an assistant who can meet his demands. And he can be very demanding.

Poppy's been an assistant before - well, on screen anyway. It can't be that hard to do in real life, right?

Two things are for sure. Poppy is about to play the role of a lifetime. And Ryan is about to learn a whole new lesson about what's really important in life.

Review: Jo 

Since first discovering Jo Watson early last year, I have been devouring all of her books and have almost read everything that she has written to date. So when I found out about this new release, I was itching to get my hands on a copy. Yet again, Jo has delivered another brilliant read that gave me so much enjoyment to read. I wasn’t disappointed with this new romantic comedy.

"....the second our lips touched, something happened. 

Everything happened. Everything around us dissolved. It blurred. 

And like condensation slipping down the edge of a glass, we melted." 

Jo always creates fantastic and entertaining heroines and this book was no exception. Poppy was the craziest female character I’ve probably ever met. Think Bridget Jones and quadruple the hilarious calamities. When I first met Poppy, I thought she was a little bit over the top. I just couldn’t believe how loopy she was. Chaos followed her wherever she went and probably just like Ryan, I found myself rolling my eyes and thinking what an earth was she doing now. However, again just like Ryan, as time went on, I really started to like her and began to chuckle at all the things she got up to. Ryan was also a character that I changed my mind about. At first meeting, he was a grumpy and stuffy CEO, but I was soon finding that there was much more to him, and I loved what I was seeing. By the time I had reached the final few chapters, he was definitely stealing my heart with his swoony actions and words.

"I feel awake when I'm with you, Poppy. 

You woke me up when I didn't know I was sleeping."

Poppy and Ryan’s story was a slow burn romance with a heap of laugh out loud moments and an ending that melted my heart. If you have yet to read a book from Jo Watson, I highly recommend picking up one as soon as you can. 

"Somewhere along the way I'd fallen in love with this man. 

And now, I felt like I had finally come home. I had a place I belonged. 

And that place was with him..."

“Love You, Love You Not” gets 4.5 ❤️’s from me.

Blog Tour: Lexi Ryan's "Crazy for Your Love (The Boys of Jackson Harbor #5)."

The Hopeless Romantics Book Blog are pleased to be part of the Blog Tour for Lexi Ryan's "Crazy for Your Love (The Boys of Jackson Harbor #5)."

Amazon.com: https://amzn.to/2UdPzxP

Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/2Kgk41k

Synopsis:

A family wedding with a fake boyfriend, meddling parents, and an obsessive ex . . . What could go wrong? 

The only thing worse than being single at my sister’s wedding is finding out that my ex will be there too. Not just any ex—the guy everyone expected me to marry, the man I came to Jackson Harbor to escape.

Now I need a date, and fast. Enter Carter Jackson—the firefighter who’s dealing with an unwanted five minutes of fame ever since a shirtless photo of him saving a puppy went viral. He’s warding off propositions left and right, and he needs a fake relationship as much as I do.

Sweet and sexy, Carter is completely off-limits. See, I have a rule. A no heartache rule. Not only is Carter my friend and a known heartbreaker, but his job as a firefighter puts him in danger daily, and that’s something I just can’t handle. 

The commitment between us might be pretend, but the passion all too real. As crazy as it makes me, I have to keep Carter at an arm’s length. Even that might not be enough to spare my heart.

Crazy for Your Love is book five in The Boys of Jackson Harbor series. All books in this series can be read as standalones. 

Review: Jo 

This book was a friends-to-lovers romance that had so much going on. It was a nail biting, heart stopping and a sexy kinda read. My emotions were all over the place. One minute I was excited and rooting for Carter and Teagan, and the next my heart was in my mouth and my stomach dropped as things weren’t going so well.  I recommend having a large glass of wine and a big block of chocolate near by. You may need them. Lol. 

"Our lies are crumbling at our feet, and with them, 

the fragile beginnings of this thing between us."

As with all of the Jackson boys that have gone before, I adored Carter.  He was so lovely with a big beautiful heart. I liked Teagan, but she made me a little bit crazy with the way she was holding back all of the time, keeping secrets and lying. I wanted so desperately for her to give Carter her heart, but then I discovered the truth and realised how messed up her past was. I couldn’t help but feel sorry for her.  This pair really did have so much going against them. I was left fearing for Carter and Teagan, wondering if they could ever make their relationship work. I’m not complaining though, because as the story came to the final few chapters, I was given an ending that I so badly needed. All of the heartache was worth it, because I absolutely loved seeing Carter and Teagan together and in love.

"I was scared of loving anyone. 

But at some point, loving you became a good kind of scary."

“Crazy for Your Love” was one hell of a bumpy and emotional ride, and I loved every second of it. It gets 4.5 ❤️’s from me

Excerpt:

“The whole drive from the hospital, I told myself I wanted to check on you.” Carter wraps his hands around his coffee and looks up at me through thick, dark lashes most women would pay a premium for. “But the second I walked in the door, I knew that wasn’t what brought me here. I want to finish what we started.”

I bite my lip and whimper. “You’re killing me.”

“And when you look at me like that, all I want to do is seduce you into ignoring your better judgment.”

That! my traitorous body cries. Yes, let’s do that! 

“But I get it,” he continues. “We’re friends, and as tempting as I find you—as tempting as I’ve always found you—if adding sex to our friendship is out of the question for you, this conversation is over. I want you, but I’m not enough of an idiot to ruin this just to take you to bed.”

My brain stumbles on as tempting as I’ve always found you before landing on adding sex to our friendship. Is that an option? Does that ever work? Crap on a cracker. I’ve known Carter for four years, and I’ve never had to exert so much self-control for something as simple as not straddling his lap. 

“Tell me what you’re thinking.” His voice is low, a husky rumble that bypasses my brain and speaks directly to the parts of my anatomy I’d rather exclude from this conversation.

I’m thinking I want you too. I’m thinking we could be naked and in my bed in less than sixty seconds. “I’m thinking you should leave,” I blurt, pushing the words past the other really bad ideas on the tip of my tongue.

He blinks at me, then nods as he pushes out of his chair. “Sure. I understand.”

Jumping up, I catch his arm. I can feel the heat of his skin through the cotton of his shirt sleeve. “I’ve never done this.”

His eyes go wide. “Wow. I thought . . . Seriously?”

“Not sex, you idiot. The whole friends-with-benefits thing. I’m not sure I’m made that way.”

He’s quiet for a long beat. “If you need more than that from me, Tea, I—”

I press my fingers to his lips and shake my head before he can say anything else. I’m not hoping for more. More is out of the question for me with someone like Carter. But even so, I don’t want to hear that he doesn’t want anything either. I know it’ll feel like rejection—even if that makes me a hypocrite. “I don’t want more, but I don’t know if . . .”

I drop my hand from his mouth and lift onto my toes to press my lips to his. I want to know if it’ll feel like it did last night, and the second our mouths touch, I have my answer. Electric need zips through me. I loop my arms behind his neck, planning to take the kiss deeper. 

He doesn’t let me. With a hand on either of my wrists, he pulls my arms away and steps back, his eyes dark. “I’ll go. You think. If we do this, it needs to be a decision, not an accident.”

I nod and watch him leave, but I stand there for a solid five minutes, considering running after him.

About Lexi:

Lexi Ryan is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of emotional romance that sizzles. A former academic and English professor, Lexi considers herself the luckiest girl around to make a living through storytelling. She loves spending time with her crazy kids, weightlifting, ice cream, swoony heroes, and vodka martinis.

Lexi lives in Indiana with her husband, two children, and a spoiled dog. You can find her at her website: www.lexiryan.com

Connect with Lexi:

Website: http://www.lexiryan.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lexiryanauthor

Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/qymaH

Bookbub: http://www.bookbub.com/authors/lexi-ryanv

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Twitter: https://twitter.com/writerlexiryan

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/2856947.Lexi_Ryan

Amazon: http://amzn.to/2bIYjGa

Review: Tiffany Reisz's "Picture Perfect Cowboy (The Original Sinners #10)."

Amazon.com: https://amzn.to/2RCtByW

Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/2yVidaa

Synopsis: 

Jason "Still" Waters' life looks perfect from the outside—money, fame, and the words "World Champion Bull-Rider" after his name. But Jason has a secret, one he never planned on telling anybody...until he meets Simone. She's the kinky girl of his dreams...and his conservative family's worst nightmare.

"Picture Perfect Cowboy" is a standalone erotic romance from Tiffany Reisz, set in her bestselling Original Sinners series. An abridged version was previously published in "Exposed: A Romance Anthology" as the novella "The Watermark." 

Review: Jo 

This book made me so happy! I smiled so much whilst reading it that I probably looked a little crazy, but I don't care because "Picture Perfect Cowboy" was so so good. A story about being true to yourself and listening to your heart, especially the kinky side. It was well worth the read. 

"....if I have your permission, Master Jason, maybe it would be okay if I fell in love with you."

"Yeah, I'd like that most of all."

The story of Simone and Jason was equal parts heat and equal parts heart. It was also a heap of fun to read. There wasn't one part that I didn't love about this tale of self discovery and love. It made me both scorching hot and made me swoon. There were even parts that were full of sweetness that made my heart sigh with happiness, especially as I finished the final chapter. 

"I want you to know something. I want you to know...I'll choose you every time." 

I can't recommend this book enough. It was just about perfect. This novel had brilliant characters, a story that captured my heart and I even got a glimpse of Søren and Nora in the bonus short story entitled "Flogging 101 with Professor S." Tiffany Reisz continues to be one of my favourites. If you haven't read any of Tiffany's books yet, this standalone romance is a good place to start. 

"You're everything I never knew I needed, What do you have to say to that?"

"Hit me, Master Dickhead."

"Picture Perfect Cowboy" gets 4.5 spanky ❤️'s from me.

Review Blitz: Emma Chase's "Royally Yours (Royally #4)."

The Hopeless Romantics Book Blog are pleased to be part of the Review Blitz for Emma Chase's "Royally Yours (Royally #4)."

Amazon.com: https://amzn.to/2Ddvb6W

Amazon UK:  https://amzn.to/2ER4NkV

Synopsis: 

New York Times bestselling author Emma Chase returns with a sweet and sexy standalone in the Royally Series. 

Princess Lenora Celeste Beatrice Arabella Pembrook had an unusual childhood. She was raised to be a Queen—the first Queen of Wessco.

It’s a big deal.

When she’s crowned at just nineteen, the beautiful young monarch is prepared to rule. She’s charming, clever, confident and cunning.

What she isn’t… is married.

It’s her advising council’s first priority. It’s what Parliament is demanding, and what her people want.

Lenora has no desire to tie herself to a man—particularly one who only wants her for her crown. But compromises must be made and royals must do their duty.

Even Queens. Especially them.

**

Years ago, Edward Langdon Richard Dorian Rourke, walked away from his title and country. Now he’s an adventurer—climbing mountains, exploring jungles, going wherever he wants, when he wants—until family devotion brings him home.

And a sacred promise keeps him there.

To Edward, the haughty, guarded little Queen is intriguing, infuriating…and utterly captivating. Wanting her just might drive him mad—or become his greatest adventure.

**

Within the cold, stone walls of the royal palace—mistrust threatens, wills clash, and an undeniable, passionate love will change the future of the monarchy forever.

Every dynasty has a beginning. Every legend starts with a story.

This is theirs.

Review: Jo 

Emma chase never disappoints when it comes to creating a romance novel that has everything that I love- a swoon-worthy and sexy hero, a captivating plot and an adorable tale of consuming love. Add a sprinkling of this author's hilarious humour and her books are the perfect kind of package. Containing all of the best ingredients to make me fall in love. I have yet to read all of the books in this wonderful series, however this one can easily be read as a standalone. I'm guessing it is a sort of prequel to the series so far. It was a story that kept me enthralled throughout every chapter as I discovered the beautiful story of Lenora and Edward. Theirs was a marriage of convenience that evolved into fierce love. A love that was I hooked on.

"You will never be lost. I will be with you, always. The vows were wrong. 

When death comes, he can have my body...but my soul will stay with you." 

I adored everything about Lenora and Edward. Their journey was one that appeared to be fate. They seemed to be truly made for each other, making a partnership that was full of passion and power. I loved the change in Lenora when Edward came into her life. He softened her hard edges but also made her a stronger queen, supporting Lenora in everything she did. It made my heart so happy to watch their love grow and strengthen. To see the pair together and the life they made for themselves was truly heart melting. It wasn't always hearts and flowers though, and I wasn't surprised by this. I expected drama, I expected twists but what I didn't expect nor was I prepared for was the ache in my heart and the tears in my eyes for a small portion of the book. Emma threw in a few emotional chapters that filled me with apprehension. 

"Christ, you are all I see. Don't you know that? 

Even when you're not with me...you're all I can see." 

If you haven't read a book by this author yet, you are missing out. Get clicking today. I have loved every single Emma Chase book that I've read and this was no exception. 

"....I know down to the marrow of my bones that whatever comes our way, 

whatever happinesses or heartbreak are in store for us, we'll face them together. 

Hand in hand, heart to heart, side by side, Lenora and Edward." 

"Royally Yours" gets 4.5 ❤️'s from me. 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Emma Chase is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the hot and hilarious Tangled series and The Legal Briefs series. Emma lives in New Jersey with her husband, two children and two naughty (but really cute) dogs. She has a long-standing love/hate relationship with caffeine.

Website: http://authoremmachase.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorEmmaChase/?fref=ts

Newsletter: http://authoremmachase.com/newsletter/

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Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6551005.Emma_Chase

Review: Jo Watson's "The Great Ex-Scape."

Amazon.com: https://amzn.to/2yazEmK

Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/2IJCLGC

Synopsis: 

On the scale of one to worst idea ever, agreeing to give the toast at her best friend's engagement party when she's been in love with him for three years was not Val's finest decision. Nor was accidentally confessing her love to him in front of all their guests, including his fiancee.

Boarding a plane that will take her literally anywhere to get away from the humiliation, Val is pleasantly surprised to find herself on the dazzlingly beautiful island of Reunion where she hopes she can heal her wounded pride, broken heart and bruised knees.

When a painful face mask experiment leads her to a fellow broken-hearted traveller, Alex, they decide to give each other a helping hand and follow a foolproof ten-step plan to get over their respective exes. And so begins their crazy adventure. What could possibly go wrong?

Review: 

Only a few months ago, I read my first Jo Watson novel and since then she has quickly become a favourite of mine. The books that I have read so far have been brilliant and a few will definitely be in my top reads of 2018. As such, I was eagerly awaiting this newest release from Jo. I couldn't wait to dive in. Like most of my previous reads from this author, "The Great Ex-Scape" was a summer holiday kind of romance, set on an exotic island. It was another story that was filled with plenty of sun, sea and swoon. 

"I was drowning and he was the oxygen I needed. 

I was burning and he was the water. I was lost and he was the way." 

The story follows Val and Alex, both nursing broken hearts and escaping to the beautiful reunion island to heal. Val spent her days giving out advice on a magazine column, whilst her own life was a bit of a mess, especially in the love department. Alex, the good guy and doctor just needed to meet someone who truly loved him. The pair found themselves in the same hotel and drawn to each other because of their connection. The story then continued as Val and Alex came up with a number of hilarious ways to improve their situation. 

"....will you fight of the evil creatures when they descend from the mist?"

"For you...I'll fight them to the death."

I loved reading the entertaining adventures of Val and Alex, but I was also desperate for something to happen between the couple. With each chapter I could feel the sexual tension growing between them, however it seemed to take forever before things started to happen. I'm a bit of a hit or miss with slow burns. Sometimes, I adore them, other times I find them so damn frustrating. Val and Alex's relationship was one of the latter, but when things did finally improve, I was swooning like mad and ready to stand up and do a little happy dance. This was why I love this author! She can write such heart-melting and swoon-worthy romance. I was excited for Val and Alex and certain that from that moment on, I could relax and enjoy my time in romance heaven. Wrong!! I was so stupid to think that the rest of the book would be all hearts and flowers. Jo threw in an evil curveball that made me want to jump into the book, stamp my feet and throw a huge tantrum for what was happening between Val and Alex. I found myself frantically tearing through the pages, praying that things would turn out okay in the end. 

"You kind of broke my heart a little bit,"

"Then let me put it back together."

Thankfully, I was eventually given an ending that I loved. It was absolutely the most perfect ending for Val and Alex and left my heart full to the brim. This turned out to be another fantastic read from this author. I also loved catching up with some of the familiar characters from Jo's other books. I especially loved discovering what was happening between Stormy and Marcus. Stormy is hands down one of my favourites. She just puts a big smile on my face. 

If you are looking for a novel that will make you chuckle and melt your heart, you can't go wrong with a book from Jo Watson. 

"The Great Ex-Scape" gets 4.5 ❤️'s from me.

Release Day Blitz & Review: Pam Godwin's "Booted (Trails of Sin #3)."

The Hopeless Romantics Book Blog are pleased to be part of the Release Blitz for Pam Godwin's "Booted (Trails of Sin #3)."

Amazon.com: https://amzn.to/2penQuQ

Amazon UK:  https://amzn.to/2xddxf9

Synopsis: 

The night I’m released from prison, she’s in my bed.

It’s been eight years since I touched a woman, and the Native American beauty is half-dressed, beaten, bruised, and devastatingly exquisite.

We’re toxic together, but we want the same things. Blood. Vengeance.

Violent relief in a warm body.

Beneath her touch, I’m alive.

Against her skin, I’m redeemed.

Buried inside her, I forget the past.

Until the past takes her from me.

Prison made me cold, but losing Raina makes me cruel. Ruthless. Unforgiving.

I killed before. For her, I’ll kill again.

I’ll end this once and for all or die in my boots.

TRAILS OF SIN series (HEAs with no cliffhangers - must be read in order):

Knotted #1 - Jake and Conor

Buckled #2 - Jarret and Maybe

Booted #3 - Lorne and Raina 

Review: Jo 

"In that suspended moment between stillness and movement, 

our souls lace together." 

This was a brilliant finale to what has been a fantastic series. "Booted" was jam packed with non-stop drama, action, and of course romance. From the moment Raina and Lorne began their story there was an immediate connection, a kind of intense chemistry that I could feel growing between the couple. Starting out as a bit of hate/love relationship, filled with angsty banter, but with a whole lot of lust underneath the surface. I was enjoying every minute of watching Raina and Lorne together. 

"He's my battle scar in the war of love." 

As well as seeing a heap of sexiness and love, this story also saw the continuation of a sub-plot that's been unfolding since book one. It was a plot that intensified with each new chapter and had me on the edge of my seat. Just as things were going well for Lorne and Raina, I started to fear that danger was lurking just around the corner. I loved getting to know Lorne and Raina and I loved how good they were together. Each of the characters had interesting back stories, carrying the scars of their past with them. But they also had a chance of helping one other to heal. I was hopeful for their future and I wasn't disappointed. Raina and Lorne were both steamy and swoon-worthy together. Their story really was the total package. 

"He smashed my heart against my ribs to make room for his. 

Now we beat side by side, stretching and growing together in the shared space." 

I absolutely love Pam Godwin's style of writing. She has delivered another gripping story that was sprinkled with a little bit of darkness and was full of wonderful quotes that I could read again and again. I was spoilt for choice when it came to selecting quotes for my review. There was also a gorgeous epilogue that I absolutely adored. It gave this fantastic series the perfect ending it deserved. If you love sexy cowboy romance, I recommend starting this series as soon as possible. You won't regret it. 

"She pleasures me with passion. I love her with fire. 

Together, we reduce the night to ashes." 

"Booted" gets 4.5 ❤️'s from me. 

Author Bio:

New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author, Pam Godwin, lives in the Midwest with her husband, their two children, and a foulmouthed parrot. When she ran away, she traveled fourteen countries across five continents, attended three universities, and married the vocalist of her favorite rock band. Java, tobacco, and dark romance novels are her favorite indulgences, and might be considered more unhealthy than her aversion to sleeping, eating meat, and dolls with blinking eyes.

Author links:

Email → pamgodwinauthor@gmail.com

Website → www.pamgodwin.com

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