Friday, January 14, 2022

Broken Boys Fight Harder by JB Heller


Broken Boys Fight Harder, by JB Heller, is a steamy second chance, contemporary romance about the power of secrets and fighting to keep the things we hold dear. If you want a romance with all the feels you can only get from a bad boy falling for the good girl, then this book is for you. One-Click now to embark on an emotional journey of two opposites navigating their way through college, family trials, and self discovery.

In Broken Boys Fight Harder we meet Chance Haynes and Carter Cross. They are both in their final year of college, and are busy preparing for life after graduation. Before that can happen though, Chance is given an assignment to take photos of the football team. This isn't the usual for her, but the editor in chief isn't backing down. He wants these shots, and he wants her to be the one taking them. Chance heads over to get started, and walks into the locker room. It is there that she runs into Carter, and they begin to banter. There is clearly an attraction between these two opposites, and this is how their journey towards their happily ever after begins. From there it's a whirlwind romance,  complete with drama, and a family secret being revealed. It definitely isn't an easy ride though, and it is full of frustration, pain, heartache, loss, and love. 

I've read Broken Boys Break Hearts, and fell hard for Hux and El's story. So when I started Broken Boys Fight Harder, I was surprised to see that this book was about Hux's little sister, Chance. For some reason my mind thought it would be about other characters. I wasn't expecting this 20 year jump. That's on me though. Really I should view Broken Boys Break Hearts as the prequel for this series. It set the stage and put the ball in motion.

Back to the book at hand though. Chance is taking after Hux with her love of photography. Which I love that he helped fuel her passion.

Photography, to me, is like being given the opportunity to see the world with a whole new perspective.


I do wish that within the book we would have seen more of her pursuing her passion. It would show up from time to time, but it wasn't what we were supposed to take away from Chance.

One thing to know is that Chance loves her family fiercely. From her mom and dad, to her big brother, her sister-in-law, and her nephew. It's always comical to talk about Kassidy being her nephew as he's only two years younger than her. Throughout this book though, we see that Chance realizes something is off with her family. She notices these little tidbits. From the way Hux and her dad interact, to how things suddenly go a bit quiet, and it's making her question things. Rightfully so. I mean if you read Broken Boys Break Hearts, then you know what Hux went through with his Dad. But all of that is being kept quiet when it comes to Chance.

Carter isn't as close with his family. His parents are not the best, but then there is his big sister Bella. He would do anything for her. Any problems she has, he wants to guide her through to a resolution. It's not just because she has down syndrome, but because she is a remarkable person. Unfortunately his parents don't feel the same. Another thing to know about Carter is that he is a talented football player. He's had offers from the NFL, but is choosing not to follow that path. He has his eyes on MMA. But that goal is going to cause some issues in his relationship with Chance.

I really want to talk about the scenes that involve Chance's dad. But at the same time, I shouldn't because it has the potential for spoilers. What I can tell you is that both scenes are emotional. There is hurt, anger, frustration, and heartache all involved.

Carter and Chance intrigued me right from the get go. As their story continued to unfold, I found myself struggling to put the book down. Then suddenly our couple had their HEA, the stage was being set for Broken Boys Despise Deceit, and I still had questions that were not answered. So that was disappointing. But ultimately I did enjoy the story. Rating wise, I opted for 3.5 stars. Honestly it would have been a 4, but it was those couple of unanswered/unfinished storylines that I just couldn't move past.

I hope that you'll give Broken Boys Fight Harder a read. It is a good story, and the characters are easy to fall for. Thank you for taking time to read my thoughts.

Laura

Side note: Broken Boys Fight Harder was previously released as Moments of Clarity in 2016, and has since been rewritten and now includes new content. The new title had been Losing Focus, but it was recently retitled as Broken Boys Fight Harder.


Cover Design: Tall Story Designs
Photographer: Michelle Lancaster
Model: Andy Murray
 

Her name was Chance, and I’d give anything for a second one with her…

She swept into my life like a hurricane, annihilating everything that came before her. Football, fighting, girls, none of it mattered anymore. The nerdy chick with a camera around her neck somehow managed to soothe the rage that thrummed beneath my skin.

I should have stayed away, but I didn't and Chance quickly became my center. Sparking something in me I didn’t even know I was capable of.

Then she learned her family’s dirty little secret. And slowly, but surely, she began to pull away from me.

Without her, my demons returned in full force. I needed her back... I just had no idea how to make that happen.



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Meet JB Heller


JB Heller is an average Aussie housewife and Mumma in her early 30's. She lives on a mini farm with her family and a few cows, sheep, a parrot, cats, fish, dogs, and a butt load of chickens. It's JB's dream to one day add a llama to the mix and an alpaca or two.

She writes across several genre's including RomCom, Romantic Suspense and Contemporary. You can always expect a healthy dose of heat, intrigue and wit in her stories.

Monday to Friday you can find JB glued to her laptop weaving words or trolling Pinterest for her next potential muse. Come the weekend, it's family time. (And of course lots of reading and Netflix binges.)

Want to know more about JB? Check her out, you’ll be guaranteed a good laugh if nothing else.



Thank you to J.B. Heller, and Wildfire Marketing Solutions, for providing me with a review copy of Broken Boys Fight Harder.

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?



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.

The Nanny and the Beefcake by Krista Sandor {cover reveal}

 



Krista Sandor has revealed the cover for The Nanny and the Beefcake!

This third installment of the Nanny Love Match series tells the story between Erasmus and Libby. We've seen both of them as side characters in the previous books, so it will be interesting to see how their story unfolds.

Releasing February 24, 2022

Cover Designer: Najla Qamber Designs
Photographer: 6:12 Photography


The world knows Erasmus Cress as a British boxing champion and a single dad, but what they don’t know is that he’s also an O thief. Yep, that O. The OMG, don’t stop, please, don’t stop, O.
 
The infuriating beefcake rendered yoga instructor Libby Lamb an off-balance O-deprived mess with one arrogant glance, which turns out to be an occupational hazard when her job is to remain calm, cool, and collected.
 
She never expected to become the boxer’s nanny, but she’s got bills to pay and brothers to support. Not to mention, the beefcake’s ripped physique might be the key to reclaiming her O and restoring her inner peace.
 
Here’s the deal. She’s out of options, and so is he.
 
He’s training for the fight of his life, and he needs someone to care for his son.
 
He says he doesn’t do relationships. But when their eyes meet, and the gloves come off, there’s no denying his yang is hot for her yin.
 
They clash at every turn, but Erasmus soon learns that the fight that matters the most might not be the one in the boxing ring. When it’s all on the line, the true battle will be the fight for Libby’s heart.



Preorder your copy today on Amazon!
Add to your Goodreads TBR!


Meet Krista Sandor


If there's one thing USA Today Bestselling Author Krista Sandor knows for sure, it's that romance saved her.

After she was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 2015, her world turned upside down.

During those difficult first days, her dear friend sent her a romance novel. That kind gesture provided the escape she needed and ignited her love of the genre.

 Inspired by the strong heroines and happily ever afters, Krista decided to write her own romance novels. Today, she is an MS warrior and living life to the fullest. When she's not writing, you can find her running 5Ks with her husband or chasing after her growing boys in Denver, Colorado.
 

Connect with Krista





Thursday, January 13, 2022

Soft Like Thunder by Julia Wolf {cover reveal}

Soft Like Thunder is the first book in the Savage U series by Julia Wolf. Save the date for February 3, and do not miss out on this dark college romance!

Pre-order today!

Helen. What a sweet name for a girl who is anything but.

The first time I laid eyes on Theo Whitlock, I chased him and his frat boy friends with a bat.

I’m no white knight. I’m broke. He’s rich. I destroyed his car. He chooses not to rat me out.

I was never supposed to go to college, but especially not one like Savage U, where only the wealthiest need apply. One might call this a lucky break, only I don’t feel so lucky with a drug dealer breathing down my neck, and a gangster threatening to burn my house down.

You have a face that could launch a thousand ships.

Theo and I don’t make sense, but being with him feels good, and I need more than my books and classes to distract me from the chaos and violence in my life.

I know you’re my good girl. Aren’t you, Helen? Tell me.

We’re casual. No complications. We have to be. I’m keeping secrets, and I have a feeling behind Theo Whitlock’s twinkly blue eyes is a whole world of darkness.

Do you think about me?

Too much…

Did I hurt you?


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Bloggers, sign up for release events here!


Meet Julia Wolf
Julia Wolf is a lover of all things romance. From steamy, to sweet, to funny, to so dirty you’ll be blushing for days, she loves it all.

Formerly a hair stylist, she spent years collecting stories her clients couldn’t wait to spill. And now that she’s writing full time, she’s putting those stories to use, although all identifying characteristics have been changed to protect the not-so-innocent!

Julia lives in Maryland with her three crazy, beautiful kids and her patient husband who she’s slowly converting to a romance reader, one book at a time.

Connect with Julia

Decker: Changing the Play by Kayley Loring & Connor Crais {a review}

Decker: Changing the Play is the brand new release from Kayley Loring and Connor Crais. This football romance released on January 11, 2022. If you're looking for a sports slash workplace romance, then look no further. Go grab this book now!

"Sometimes it's better for everyone if you let something that's really important to you go."

At the beginning of this story, I found myself a bit annoyed with Hannah. I get it, she was grieving (in her own way), and was shocked by the news that she was now the owner of the Tomcats. But the fact that she went in so unprepared just didn't sit well with me. She seems like a smart woman, and even if you despise the sport, you're the owner. Step it up.

Thankfully as the story progressed my view of her changed. She grew into the person I wanted from the beginning. Maybe that was Decker's influence, or maybe it was her taking her job seriously and figuring it out.

As for Decker, I wasn't certain about him in the beginning either. I really think it was the meet cute that had my first impression of both characters not be so favorable. Decker is an amazing football player, and it sounds like he has matured quite a bit after his earlier years in the league. So that was nice to see. I also liked how he was so protective of Hannah, and didn't her to fail. He was her cheerleader day in and day out.

When the dramatic moment happened, I can honestly say my jaw dropped a bit. I wasn't fully expecting that to happen. Yet I can see the reason behind it, and how it was beneficial in the grand scheme of things. The only thing that annoyed me about the situation is that it all could have been avoided if there was clear communication. Instead it was done in secret, and hoping for positive results. Yes, I know, it's a romance novel and they'll pull the drama how ever they can. Why do so many book characters have issues with communicating clearly? 

Then there was the reunion, and it was predictable. I saw that coming, and I just wish it had been slightly different. But you can't get everything you want.

All in all, I really did enjoy the story. Hannah and Decker grew on me as the story went, and at the end I was rooting for them. Hannah ended up impressing me with her growth, and that pushed this story from a 3.5 rating to a 4.

Will I be continuing on with the Boston Tomcats series? Oh most definitely. I am looking forward to seeing Hannah and Decker as side characters in the future. Now to find out who the next book will feature. I have my thoughts, but you never know, Kayley and Connor could surprise me!

Thank you for taking time to read my thoughts. If you are a fan of sports romance that is also set in the workplace, then I hope you'll consider picking up Decker: Changing the Play.

Laura


 
 

#12 Johnny Decker. Star quarterback for the Boston Tomcats. Two-time Super Bowl MVP...a decade ago. Nickname: Decker the Panty Wrecker.

I get tackled for a living by men who are built like rhinos. I could take the wings off a fly with a football from 30 yards away. (I wouldn’t, but I could.) Being a veteran quarterback means I’m a mentally alert, fine-tuned athletic machine who can make split-second decisions.

It’s my job to anticipate what’s going to happen next and adapt. But I couldn’t have anticipated the death of our beloved team owner.

His estranged daughter Hannah Strong is a finance nerd from New York. She knows less than nothing about football. Know what she didn’t anticipate? Inheriting the Boston Tomcats.

She’s stubborn, uptight, infuriating, and wrong about absolutely everything—from pizza to how to run my team. And I don’t want to talk about how good she looks in a skirt. Or daydream about how good she’d look out of it.

Really, I don’t.

I’m not Decker the Panty Wrecker anymore—I’ve changed.

I can’t stop arguing with her.

Or thinking about her.

I thought I had a winning play.

But Hannah Strong changed everything.




Add Decker: Changing the Play to your Goodreads TBR!


🎧 AUDIOBOOK Info 🎧

The audiobook will release in March!

It will be duet-style, performed by Connor Crais and Mackenzie Cartwright, featuring Ava Lucas and Ron Butler. 


ABOUT KAYLEY LORING
Before writing steamy romantic comedy novels, Kayley Loring got a BFA in creative writing and had a fifteen-year career as a screenwriter in Los Angeles (under a different name). She mostly wrote PG-13 family comedies that studios would pay her lots of money for and then never make into movies. In 2017 she decided to move to the Pacific Northwest and write about all the fun stuff that she wasn't allowed to write about in those PG-13 scripts. Now she’s an Amazon Top 25 bestselling author who is breathing cleaner air and writing dirtier words. It’s an adjustment she’s happily getting used to.

Rest assured that her funny sexy sweet romances have no cheating or cliffhangers, and always have HEAs!

Connect with Kayley


ABOUT CONNOR CRAIS
Connor Crais is a classically trained actor living in the Midwest with his wife, two kids, and rescue greyhound. He has been both a stage and television actor, and before plunging into the romance genre, he had been narrating commercials, audiobooks, and explainers for well over a decade from his home studio. From alphas to bosses to cocky sports stars (a particular favorite), he loves sparring with beautiful, sassy heroines (and their talented narrators) but also loves winning them over and reaching that happily ever after. He is excited to now create those stories as an author.

Connect with Connor

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Thank you to Kayley Loring, Connor Crais, and Wildfire Marketing Solutions, for providing me with an advanced reader copy of Decker: Changing the Play.
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