What I Read Last Week

Spring break is officially over, and my kids are back to school. We had a great week together, and didn't let that little bug ruin too much of our plans. My kids did a lot of fun activities, and hopefully made some good memories. I think the highlight was bowling. We all had a good time, and bowled decently. 

When it comes to reading my week was really good. I read 6 books, and enjoyed the majority of them. Four books were advanced copies from the authors (and/or PR teams), and two were already on my kindle. There were 3 small town romances, 2 sports romances, and 1 paranormal. It was a nice little variety.

So what were the six books that I read this week? Keep scrolling to find out!

I would love to hear about the books you read, or booktubers you watched, and anything bookish. Please share!

Happy Reading,
Laura

 Yours to Take by Emily Silver

The meet cute in this book had me laughing. The setting was fabulous. I love a good small town, and it being set on a family ranch was just that much better. Our heroine was lovable. Our hero had potential. While the story was good, this wasn't my favorite. It felt lacking, and that connection between the characters wasn't strong. I'll still be returning for the next book in the series because the Winchester family intrigues me. I want to see each of them get their happily ever after. I went into a little more detail with my review over on Goodreads.

A False Start by Elsie Silver

I LOVED this story. Seriously so good. Elsie Silver is an amazing writer, and the characters she creates are some of my favorites. While I did enjoy this story, I felt like it was missing a lot of Griff's point of view. I wanted more of his history, and his struggles. Plus there was that reveal that seemed major at the time, but then didn't really amount to anything. Again, I went into more detail over on Goodreads if you're curious.

Batter Up by Hallie Bennett

Oof, this book was a hot mess. I went in knowing it was a baseball romance with a plus size female main character. I also knew it was instalove. Instalove is fine. It is. As long as there is a connection between the characters. I did not feel that what so ever. Our heroine clearly hated her body, and her self esteem was in the trash. Then there was our hero who was over the top and quite annoying. He was trying to be all alpha-ish, but it was a miss. Thankfully this book was a novella so it all went quickly. Unfortunately I still wasted time reading it. 

Captive of the Night by Meg Anne & K Loraine

The Mate Games: Pestilence continues to pull me in. Not as much as War did, but that's okay. Different characters, different storylines, same world. I still am enjoying it. Now when the second book ended I thought that someone else was taken over. So when this book started and it was a different character I was confused. That could have just been my reading though and not fully paying attention. I liked this change up though, and how the possession played into the story. Also when the one characters past was revealed that was interesting. I knew there was something "special" about the character, but didn't know what it was. So this new piece of info just has things making sense. I am curious as to what will happen in the future, and how everything will play out. If you're wanting to read this book, it will be releasing on April 10, 2023. (although paperbacks are typically available a bit before hand.)

Almost Goodbye by Nola Marie

Oh Nola! This author continues to pull me into her storytelling, and has me falling for the characters. Almost Goodbye is Henry's story. We met him in the Sons of Sin series, and while I knew his story was coming, I didn't know what to expect. This age gap romance duet ends on a doozy of a cliffhanger. It is very much a second chance romance, and it is forbidden. Plus this small town is completely against Henry. Now because of what happened the town is also against Ashleigh. I loved that we were able to get to know Henry, and see all that he had been through over the years. I wish we had a point of view from Ashleigh during the same time. I would love to know what she dealt with during those 5 years. The way the secret came out was just what I was expecting. That being said I wasn't expecting what went down with Carter. Then there is Ashleigh's dad, and OOFTA he's a lot. I'm not a fan. I need the second half of this duet ASAP, but I have to wait until May. 

The Third Baseman by Lulu Moore

I don't even know what to say about this book. It wasn't really what I was expecting. Maybe it had to do with this being my introduction to Lulu Moore's storytelling. Or maybe it was the adding in of british terms (diary for schedule/calendar being one). Or it could have been the way the high school was portrayed that felt very hollywood, and not realistic. Or perhaps it was Jupiter and Marnie that I just didn't completely vibe with. I still cannot fully understand why 18 year old Jupiter did what he did. Yes it's been explained, but it still isn't sitting right. Now flash forward 14 years, and I'm confused as to why 32 year old Jupiter did what he did. I mean yes, he wanted her back, and was using that influence to make it happen, but again, not sitting right. Then there is Marnie, and I don't understand why she accepted the job. It doesn't matter how irresistible the owner is, you can still say no if it's not something you're interested in. Now did these two have a connection? Absolutely. From day one they had that connection. I'm not denying that. They are meant to be together. That much I can see. Now don't think I didn't like the book, because I did for the most part. I'm always up for a second chance romance, add in that it's sports related, and I'll read it. Will I read another book by Lulu? Possibly. I mean now that I know what to expect, I might give her books another go. The Third Baseman releases on March 29, 2023.

Thank you Emily Silver, Nola Marie, Lulu Moore, Meg Anne, and K Loraine for the advanced copies you provided me with.

Please note:

I participate in the Amazon Affiliates program.

Purchases made through links above allow me to earn a small commission.

Thank you!

I Need These Books Immediately!

Happy March! Welcome to the third chapter of 2023. Those first two were interesting, so let's see how this one comes together.

One of my favorite things about a new month is all the new books that get released. There are so many to choose from, so many to add to my TBR, and so many authors to fangirl over. This month there are 12 books on my anticipated reads list. Two of them are POSSIBLY being released in March, as in they have March release dates on Amazon, but I haven't heard any updates from the author. So time will tell.

Last month the majority of my list was sports romance, and honestly March isn't looking too different. Eight of them are sports romance. I can't help it. Sports romance is just where my heart gravitates towards.

What is on your anticipated reads list for this month? Any books that you feel you absolutely MUST READ? Even if they're not new releases, let me know! Keep scrolling to see the books I can't wait to get my hands on. You may notice that a couple don't have book covers, and one doesn't have a link, that's because that info isn't out there yet. Once it is though I'll share it to my Facebook page. Make sure to follow me there.

Happy Reading,
Laura

Note: I have read a few of these already as I received advanced copies of them for review. I'm keeping them on my list though for others to get excited about. (and believe me, I'm still excited!)

5 of my Favorite Fictional Characters

It takes a lot for a character to stand out for me. I need them to grab hold of my attention, and wish for more of their story, or wish to see them appear as major side characters in future books in the series. I want to celebrate their happy moments, I want to cry with them during their sad moments, and I want to be by their side during the difficult times. When that happens these are often the characters that I wish I could befriend in their fictional worlds.

I read a lot of books. A LOT. Therefore choosing favorites is always a difficult task. However there are some characters that stand out more than others. It's these characters who are just screaming "I'm your favorite", and "don't you forget about me". Believe me when I say there are quite a few that stand out. Today though I'm only going to share five of them. Maybe I'll revisit this in the future and do a secondary post. Time will tell.

Who are some of your favorite characters? Any specific reason they stand out?

Happy Reading,
Laura

Breathe Again by Nola Marie {a review}

Music can save lives. And if you listen closely enough, you might hear a cry for help. We missed his cries.

In May 2021 I was read my first book by Nola Marie. Goodbye is a Second Chance was the first book in the Sons of Sin series, and I was immediately hooked. There was something about Nola's storytelling and the characters she created that grabbed hold and wouldn't let me go. With each new release I found myself more and more intrigued by Maddox Masters. You could feel the pain and heartache pouring off of him, and I needed to know his story. His past was hinted at throughout the series, but it wasn't until Shed My Skin that we fully began to know this character. The blinders were pulled off, and here he was raw and exposed. When Shed My Skin ended, my heart beating rapidly. That cliffhanger was a doozy, and I needed the conclusion to his story ASAP. Well Breathe Again is the conclusion, and it is an intense story. Which is fitting because it's Maddox, and he is an intense man.

My rating for Breathe Again:

Maddox Masters...you beautifully broken man who has so much love to give, and talent to share.

This FREAKING book had me sobbing, it had me laughing on occasion, it had me on the edge of my seat waiting to find out what happened next. I had to know how Maddox and Quinn were going to get their happily ever after. I needed to see how Maddox was going to get through everything that he has been dealing with. I needed the closure to this series. I needed to know that all of the characters that I have come to love are happy, healthy, and have surrounded themselves with people who love them.

Maddox and Quinn's story was not an easy one by any means. There was so much pain, anger, heartbreak, trauma, healing, passion, and love flowing through these pages. We see both of them working together through their issues, and leaning on the other when needed. These two have overcome so much in their lives, and their story was a beautiful one to read.

In this book we see Maddox through one of the hardest times of his life. We see Quinn dealing with BS from two people who are close to Maddox. Those people assume she's something she's not. It was frustrating, and heartbreaking. We also find out what happened that day when Maddox was rushed to the hospital with his life on the line. Then there's the information Maddox begins to learn about his conditions, and we see him work through all of that. Breathe Again shows this second chance at life that Maddox has been given. With Quinn and his friends by his side Maddox has the support he needs, the love he needs, the encouragement to go on.

I may not be ready to say goodbye to the Sons of Sin, but I know that Nola Marie has other books in the works that will draw me in just as much as this band did. Plus I should really go read the River City series so that I can know Bastian, Rory, Jax, and Zane a bit better. After all they all make appearances throughout the Sons of Sin series. 

Should you choose to read Maddox's story, please note that there are content warnings. So be sure to head to Nola's website to research those before diving in.

Sons of Sin is a rockstar romance series that covers a variety of tropes. All of the books in this series are emotional reads, they cover sensitive topics, and the stories are ones that live on in your head. You could say they live rent free in my brain. If you haven't read any books by Nola Marie, I highly suggest that you do. Nola's storytelling is impressive.

Happy Reading,
Laura
 

Amazon | Goodreads | BookBub

Breathe Again is book 6 of the Sons of Sin series and the conclusion to book 5, Shed My Skin, which must be read first.

From International Bestselling author Nola Marie comes a Rockstar romance like you've never seen.

From the flames of sin I rose, by her virtue, I fell...

I found her in my eleventh hour. My whiskey-eyed canary. Quinn.

Call it Fate or destiny or whatever, but she is the melody to calm my madness. With her, the demons inside me quiet. She doesn't have a hold on my heart, she owns it. She is my everything.

I've been given a second-chance and I’m not about to squander it. This time, I’m not fighting to let go. I’ll fight the past, my darkness, and my fear and hold on.

To her, only her, and to our future.


WARNING: This book is not for the faint of heart. It will tear your heart out and stomp on it before putting it back together. The characters are not perfect and the heroes are flawed. If you’re looking for sunshine and rainbows, I suggest you try another book. But if you want real emotion with a happily ever after, then you’ve found your book.

Mature audiences only. Refer to nolamarie.com/sons-of-sin for full disclaimer.

Thank you to Nola Marie for providing me with an advanced copy of Breathe Again.

I participate in the Amazon Affiliates program. Any purchases made through links above allow me to earn a small commission. Thank you!

Shed My Skin by Nola Marie {a review}

Shed My Skin by Nola Marie is a must read for all rockstar romance fans, and it is now available! Shed My Skin is the first half of Maddox Masters story, and it is the fifth book in the Sons of Sin series. While you don't need to read the previous four books, I think it's beneficial so that you can witness Maddox in the other books. It will give you a better understanding of who he, the things he has been through, and how that has gotten him to this point. All of the books in the series are fabulous, and I am hooked. Keep in mind that this book DOES end in a cliffhanger. 

Seeing as how this book takes place after Break Me Down, I cannot recap Shed My Skin without giving spoilers for Ryder's book. So I'm just going to refer you to the description that Nola wrote (it's down below), and call it good. One thing I do want to mention is that there are trigger/content warnings for this book!

This book contains violence, explicit sex, drug and alcohol abuse, mental illness, suicide, child abuse, and sexual assault. Discretion is strongly advised.

Let's get my rating out of the way right from the get go. I gave Shed My Skin 4.5 stars. Maddox's story is dark. It is tragic. It is full of pain, and heartache. But at the same time we see Maddox falling for someone, and it's freaking him out because it isn't Zoey. Shed My Skin also shows us what it is Maddox is struggling with, and it isn't just the addictions he's battled for a while. It's deeper than that.

Holy hell that was a ride, and now I have to wait until Nola releases Breathe Again so I can find out how Maddox's story concludes. How does he get out of this dark space he is in? Does he come out of this working toward a future, or are we saying goodbye to a character? I refuse to believe that Nola would write off a character, so I'm thinking good things.

I knew that Maddox's story was going to be dark, and full of painful moments. I wasn't expecting him to have dealt with the things he did. His past is full of twists, turns, drama, and trauma. In this book we walk through all of that with him as he writes his "goodbye" to those he holds dear. It is very eye opening, and it has me viewing Maddox in a different light. 

One thing that was shared was everything that happened with Zoey. This has me understanding it so much more, and it all breaks my heart. Their relationship/friendship endured so much. Yes there was good moments, but there were also painful ones. I'm also better understanding the relationship with Ryder. It's all making sense. It's coming into focus, and the puzzle pieces are fitting together. Things with Bastian are making sense as well. Basically this book answers a lot of questions regarding Maddox's life. Which up until this point has been a mystery.

This story alternates back and forth between time frames. One moment you'll be in the present, at others you'll be back a few weeks, or even many years. Nola Marie does an excellent job of reminding you of the the time that you are in. All of the back and forth just helps to explain Maddox. His life hasn't been sunshine and rainbows. There are a lot of grey clouds in his world, and quite a few storms have passed through. 

The way this book ends, has me eagerly anticipating the second half of the story. There is a tentative release date of January 2023 (sigh), but I did see that Nola said on her Facebook page that it will be sooner than that. So just know that Breathe Again will be on an anticipated reads list eventually.

One thing I wanted to touch on was the mental health aspect of Shed My Skin. As I was reading the story, and we flashed back to his childhood, I honestly saw the signs of ADHD in him. I feel that there are potential other potential diagnoses that could be given, but that stood out to me immediately. Maybe it's because I have a child with ADHD that I just recognized it. I will say that his childhood did not set him up in a way to understand what was happening, or gave him any coping skills. Then there is the family medical history that was touched on. Again, had he received services for how to work with it all, or even therapy, maybe he wouldn't have gotten to this point. Maddox's life has not been easy. Not at all. But he also hasn't been taught the skills he needs to work through the highs and lows of his mental health. I think that is something that a lot of us can relate to. Especially as we move out of this ordeal we've been in for the last two years where a lot of us have learned more about ourselves.

I truly loved Maddox's story. I was a nervous wreck for a lot of it. It comes down to the fact that this character has me on edge. Witnessing him share his story, and everything that he has been through is just so hard hitting. It is dark, and it take a lot out of you. But as the book ends, you're left in this moment of wanting nothing but the best for Maddox. You're wanting him to come out the other side, and find the happiness that so deserves. To find the love that he so deserves. To have his person walking along side of him through the highs and lows.

Thank you for reading my thoughts on Shed My Skin. If you've read the previous books in the Sons of Sin series, then you need to read Maddox's story. It's a wild ride. Take breaks as needed. In the end, you'll understand him. Thank you Nola for sharing Maddox's story. I know it couldn't have been easy to write.

Laura

Cover Art: Nola Marie & Daria Loshlin
Photograph: Vologymyr, Canva

I'm tired.

Tired of the spotlight. Tired of fighting my demons. The guilt and shame have become too heavy to continue. It's time for me to go. Though my grip slips more each day, I need to hold on just a little longer. I need them to know the truth. That this fight was never theirs. My soul mate. My brother. My protector. And her. My Canary, my heart. My lullaby with whiskey eyes. I love you with all that's within me. I just wish I had more than darkness to offer.

This road has been long and winding
And I’m too tired to go on
Pain and sorrow have haunted me
Guilt and regret fill my mind
I can’t go on, I can’t keep fighting
This is my goodbye but it’s only for a little while
You were the one who kept me afloat
For you have I tried to keep breathing
But these ghosts haunt my soul and mind
This may be my last note
But from you, I’ll never be far
This is goodbye but it’s only for a little while
It won’t be long now but don’t shed a tear
Don’t cry for me or mourn my name
Cause I will always be with you
Even after I’m gone
My last song is goodbye but it’s only for a little while

One Click Now!

Add to your Goodreads TBR!

Are you new to the band?
Start here ↓

Angel & Josie

Amazon | Goodreads | Review

Dane & Cami

Amazon | Goodreads | Review

Jake & Cara

Amazon | Goodreads | Review

Ryder & Heaven

Amazon | Goodreads | Review

About the Author

Nola Marie has been writing her entire life but has authored nine books in the last year, four of which are published as her steamy mafia romance series, The Men of River City. Currently she is working on her Sons of Sin series which promises to be just as bold and exciting.

She also holds a bachelors degree in IT Management and an MBA in Leadership and Strategy. 

She has spent her entire life in Louisiana, and absolutely loves everything about it from the crawfish to the swamps. She has a hard-working, completely devoted husband that encourages her to do what makes her happy, three smart, kind, intelligent children that are her best friends, and an assortment of pets. 

When not spending time with her family, she reads, writes, listens to music, doing amateur graphic design, and plays video games.

Connect with Nola Marie

Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | TikTok | Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub

Thank you Nola Marie for providing me with an advanced copy of Shed My Skin.

Break Me Down by Nola Marie {a review}

For those who have been wanting Ryder's story, the wait is officially over. Break Me Down, the fourth book in the Sons of Sin series by Nola Marie, is out now, and it is absolutely fabulous!

Before we talk about the book, please read this note from Nola:

This book features discussions and topics that may be sensitive to some readers. Discretion is advised. This book contains scenes of: m/m, consensual sexual violence, addiction, codependency, rage, toxic relationships, and narcissism. If you have triggers or dislike raw, emotional pain that shreds a character's soul before rebuilding them, give this book a pass. If you choose to read, you're in for a breathtaking journey from the depths of hell to the heights of heaven. But don't say you weren't warned.

Okay now that the content/trigger warnings have been talked about, let's discuss the book.

If you've read the previous three books in the Sons of Sin series, then you've watched Ryder and Maddox's path of destruction. You've also probably noticed how bonded these two are. They are always there for each other. They know how to help the other through their tortured moments, and bring them back to the present. Is it ideal? No. Does it work for them? Currently that answer would be yes. It's what they've always known.

"Maddox said you were both complicated."

"Complicated, Love, we are not complicated. We are f*cked up. Everything about us is f*cked up. And neither of us have any right to bring you into our f*cked up little world, but there was something about you, I can't stay away from."

I knew going into Break Me Down that Ryder's story was going to be intense, but dang. This man has been through the wringer, and is just trying to make it through the day. His past is definitely haunting him, and once you learn that story, you'll understand why.

When Heaven said that "Ryder and Maddox have been nothing but a distraction since I laid eyes on them" I had to laugh. I can fully see that being the case with them. They are very much a distraction, but a fun one at that.

From the moment that Ryder briefly mentioned his sister (Rayna), my curiosity was piqued. When that storyline was finally revealed (through flash backs), I was shocked. That scenario wasn't something I expected. Then as that onion continued to unravel, we learned about Ryder's mom, and how her influence affected his life. She's a piece of work. Dang.

Speaking of dear old mom, when she made her appearance at the condo, I knew it wasn't going to be good. I was seeing red. I don't blame Heaven one bit for how she responded.

I go straight to the bus station and take the first one back home. I'll send someone back for my car. I don't take anything with me. Not even my heart. It c an stay lying in pieces on his floor because I don't need it anymore.

Flash forward to Maddox purchasing that property, and a second chance for Heaven and Ryder, I knew it wasn't going to be a smooth reunion. All of that was just jaw dropping. I don't even fully know how to put that all into words. There was a lot of anger, frustration, pain, and longing going on.

"I always knew Heaven and hell would collide. I just never expected it to be exactly what I needed to feel complete and whole."

That happily ever after that they found for themselves though? Absolutely wonderful. Their relationship took time. It required a break. But when these two reconnected, it was like coming home. 

"You have no idea what you do to me. Everything feels like -- peace when you're here. A perfect calm. You are my gravity, Heaven. You're the only thing that's ever kept me on the ground."

Also, Is it time for Maddox's story yet? Because dang if everything that happened in Break Me Down doesn't have me ready to find out what's going on with him. That's going to be one hell of a story, and I cannot wait to pick it up.

If you are someone who likes rockstar romances, or you just like characters who have to go through hell to get to their happily ever after, then you need to read Break Me Down! Do you need to read the other three books in the series first? Eh, not really. Would it give you a better picture of the Ryder that the fandom has come to know? Absolutely. But you can go into Break Me Down without reading those. So it's completely your choice. I will tell you that the other three books are fabulous stories, and I do recommend them.

Thank you for taking time to read my thoughts on Break Me Down. Please go read this book. Also, don't forget to check out the playlist that Nola Marie has curated! 

Laura

Cover Art: Nola Marie
Photographer: Josh Brandao
Model: Charlie Winzar

Sons of Sin’s lead guitarist loves being the “sin” in their name. Because without Heaven, he’d rather fast-track to hell.

Ryder

Rage is all I know.

All I’ve ever known, it seems.

Except for that one moment – brief year in my life

where I experienced Heaven.

But I crashed and burned as hard as Lucifer himself when she destroyed me.

The rage came back, stronger than ever.

And when she reappears in my life, when I learn the truth?

Rage doesn’t begin to describe what I feel.

Heaven

He was my one.

Out of the four of the hot guys that walked into my diner, I lusted after two, but fell for one.

Until I learned something that shattered my heart.

And now, in a cruel twist, the universe has thrown us back together.

He learns my truth and I learn his.

Unknowingly, I broke him all those years ago.

Now he’s determined to break me.

Shattered and gutted, how do two people heal when apologies don’t fix the damage, and the truth

comes out years too late?

Order Here!

Add Ryder's story to your Goodreads TBR!

Are you new to the band?
Start here ↓

Angel & Josie

Amazon | Goodreads | Review

Dane & Cami

Amazon | Goodreads | Review

Jake & Cara

Amazon | Goodreads | Review

About the Author

Nola Marie has been writing her entire life but has authored nine books in the last year, four of which are published as her steamy mafia romance series, The Men of River City. Currently she is working on her Sons of Sin series which promises to be just as bold and exciting.

She also holds a bachelors degree in IT Management and an MBA in Leadership and Strategy. 

She has spent her entire life in Louisiana, and absolutely loves everything about it from the crawfish to the swamps. She has a hard-working, completely devoted husband that encourages her to do what makes her happy, three smart, kind, intelligent children that are her best friends, and an assortment of pets. 

When not spending time with her family, she reads, writes, listens to music, doing amateur graphic design, and plays video games.

Connect with Nola Marie

Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub

Thank you Nola Marie for providing me with an advanced copy of Break Me Down.

Break Me Down by Nola Marie {cover reveal}

AHHHHH! Nola Marie just revealed the cover for Break Me Down, and she revealed WHO the main character is!

I have loved reading the Sons of Sin series, and while Shooting Star in the Rain may have been my favorite, I have been eagerly anticipating Break Me Down. Now that I know what the cover looks like, and who the main character is, I'm beyond ready to read this book!

Now I just need to wait for January 14, 2022.

Photographer: Josh Brandao

Sons of Sin’s lead guitarist loves being the “sin” in their name. Because without Heaven, he’d rather

fast-track to hell.

Ryder

Rage is all I know.

All I’ve ever known, it seems.

Except for that one moment – brief year in my life

where I experienced Heaven.

But I crashed and burned as hard as Lucifer himself when she destroyed me.

The rage came back, stronger than ever.

And when she reappears in my life, when I learn the truth?

Rage doesn’t begin to describe what I feel.

Heaven

He was my one.

Out of the four of the hot guys that walked into my diner, I lusted after two, but fell for one.

Until I learned something that shattered my heart.

And now, in a cruel twist, the universe has thrown us back together.

He learns my truth and I learn his.

Unknowingly, I broke him all those years ago.

Now he’s determined to break me.

Shattered and gutted, how do two people heal when apologies don’t fix the damage, and the truth

comes out years too late?

Preorder Here!
Add Ryder's story to your Goodreads TBR!

Shooting Star in the Rain by Nola Marie {a review}

Shooting Star in the Rain by Nola Marie is NOW AVAILABLE! This is the third book in the Sons of Sin series, and this time we are finding out how Jake and Cara find their happily ever after. Friends, it is an emotional journey for them, and Cara has a lot of trauma from a previous relationship.

Now that I briefly mentioned trauma, I do want to say that this story has a content warning for a situation that Cara went through back in Chicago (which we learned a little about in Bed of Nails). That situation continues to affect her life to this day, and as a result she has PTSD. Which is understandable. Nothing is overshared, but I just wanted to put it out there. If you need more information before reading, please reach out to me and I will fill you in on the specifics.

As we learned at the end of Bed of Nails, Sons of Sin is headed on tour! Jake is rejoining the band and is need of someone to watch his daughter while he does his job. Enter Cara, Dane's little sister. She volunteered to take care of Lyra. Cara was looking for an escape anyway, so she thinks she can handle the job. Plus she promised to continue to meet with her therapist through virtual meetings. Dane still wasn't sold. Jake though was all in. He has been in love with Cara for YEARS, and he's hoping to finally let her know. Especially since his plans to do so were interrupted years ago by Peyton. Jake is hesitant though because he doesn't want to betray his best friend, or cause issues with the band. Things are going okay, and they are slowly setting into a routine. Yes, Cara is struggling with her anxiety (and occasional flashbacks), but she's trying her best. Things are starting to make a turn until a person from her past makes a reappearance. At the same time, Jake is also getting a blast from the past. Neither are welcomed, and could affect their future. Can they make it through? Can Cara trust her heart to Jake? Will she ever tell anyone what happened back in Chicago? What do these people want from her and Jake?

This story was SO GOOD! At the end of Bed of Nails I knew that 1) I needed Jake and Cara's story immediately, 2) it was going to be INTENSE, and 3) I was going to fall hard for this couple (and Lyra). Of course I was correct on all three accounts. I was not expecting Cara's story to hit so hard though. That woman has been through a lot in her life. From the loss of her mother, to the situation in Chicago, and now to the events in Paris, it's a lot. Jake has been through some stuff though too. Nothing to the extent that Cara has, but that doesn't diminish his past in any way shape or form. What he went through with Peyton has been rough. The secret he's been keeping has been rough. But he wouldn't change it for the world. He loves his daughter. One thing that I really loved about their story was Jake's support. He was showing Cara through action, and telling her through his words, how he would be there for her. And more importantly how he would love her through it all. The situation that occurred in Paris brought tears to my eyes. I wasn't fully expecting it to happen, so when it all began my heart was in my throat and the tears were welling up. As things intensified, I was wondering just how this was all going to conclude. Not only that but what was the motive? The ending of that though was so freaking good. It was the conclusion that I wanted, and it was a good fit for the characters. Not related to the Paris situation, but still related to the over all story, I laughed so hard when Dane busted into the room and caught an eye full. Then with what was revealed a little later it just made me laugh even more so. So obviously the book isn't all seriousness, there are a few comedic moments as well.

I absolutely adored the characters (main plus sides), and am finding myself even more curious about Ryder and Maddox. The setting in this book was intriguing, as I can't say I've really read many stories where the rockstars are on tour. The story captivated me, and I loved learning about Jake and Cara (and also witnessing Dane's reaction to their relationship).

Highly suggest you give Shooting Star in the Rain, and really all of books in the Sons of Sin series. If rockstar romances are your preferred sub-genre, then go grab these now! Kindle Unlimited subscribers can read these for free with their membership!

Thank you for taking time to read my thoughts on the book. I appreciate you taking time to read my thoughts.

Laura

What do you do when your heart wants the one that got away?  What do you do when she comes back broken? Can you love her scars and all?

~Jake~

The day I decided to finally lay out my feelings for the girl of my dreams was the day life threw me a curve.

In order to do what I knew in my heart was right, I had to give up my dreams of making it big with my band.

And my dream of her.

Since i got my daughter out of it, I’m not sorry.

But now a second curveball has just come, courtesy of the band I had to leave.

They’re making the big time now and they need me back.

I’m heading on tour with them, my guitar, my daughter...and her.

A second chance to win the girl of my dreams? Maybe. 

But this time around we both have a lot of baggage.

~Cara~

I’m broken. I know it.

My brother knows it.

The band knows it.

Every day I go through the motions, more so I don’t worry the people who care about me than because I’m actually getting better.

Honestly, I don’t deserve to heal. 

It was one impulsive decision.

A desire to help my brother and the band I see as brothers.

I’d go along on their tour and play nanny for the most adorable little girl I’ve ever seen.

The band would get one of their founding members back.

A win for everyone.

Until Jake learns more about me than I ever wanted anyone to know.

And I learn more about him than I could’ve imagined.

When life separates two souls, leaving them beaten and bloody, can love forge them into something stronger? When the storms of their past threaten, can their love remain as bright as a shooting star in the rain?

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About the Author

Nola Marie has been writing her entire life but has authored nine books in the last year, four of which are published as her steamy mafia romance series, The Men of River City. Currently she is working on her Sons of Sin series which promises to be just as bold and exciting.

She also holds a bachelors degree in IT Management and an MBA in Leadership and Strategy. 

She has spent her entire life in Louisiana, and absolutely loves everything about it from the crawfish to the swamps. She has a hard-working, completely devoted husband that encourages her to do what makes her happy, three smart, kind, intelligent children that are her best friends, and an assortment of pets. 

When not spending time with her family, she reads, writes, listens to music, doing amateur graphic design, and plays video games.

Connect with Nola Marie

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Thank you to Nola Marie for providing me with an advanced copy of Shooting Star in the Rain.