Friday, November 30, 2018

Review: Chasing Shadows by Catherine Bybee


Publication Date: November 13th 2018 by Montlake
Purchase Links: Amazon | Barnes & Noble 

About the book:

Avery Grant doesn’t date. Her first marriage was a mutually beneficial contract that gave her the financial freedom she needed to step away from her controlling parents. Wealthy and single, the last thing she’s looking for is love sneaking in to mess up her life plans. And after a brutal attack, she’s determined to never be vulnerable again, even if the new man in her life helps her feel safe.
Mesmerized from the moment he sets his eyes on Avery, Liam is driven to learn everything about this tough, sexy, challenging woman. Breaking down her defenses won’t be easy, but Liam refuses to be pushed away. All he needs is a tiny crack in Avery’s armor to wiggle his way into her heart.
But when a terrifying lie about her attacker’s fate comes to light, Avery’s past returns to haunt her. Now she’s willing to put herself in danger to get the answers she needs. That means jeopardizing the best thing that’s ever happened to her: Liam.

My Thoughts:
Last year Avery barely survived a brutal attack and remembers next to nothing about it.  Previously, Avery’s been outspoken and up for a good time, but the attack has changed her.  Not that she’s now a shrinking violet, but she’s more thoughtful and serious.  Also, she’s taken up krav maga determined to be able to defend herself should she ever be in a vulnerable situation again.

While defending herself from a handsy barfly, Avery captures the attention of Liam, a nice, normal building contractor, who soon starts taking krav maga to get close, and the sparks fly between them! Liam isn’t like the men Avery usually tangles with, satisfied with having a brief physical affair, and then moving on quickly.  Liam wants more than a casual hookup, unnerving her, but he’s exactly what Avery didn’t realize she needed.

While Avery refuses to be treated or seen as a victim, the attack did leave a mark and its effects are coming to a head the closer she approaches the one-year anniversary.  Details of the attack are coming to light as Avery starts regaining bits of her memory, shaking her up as she realizes things may not have been as the police originally thought.

When I was first introduced to Avery in the last book, I have to say she annoyed me quite a bit.  She was very abrasive to Wade and Trina as they were starting their relationship and I felt like she was overbearing and intrusive.  By the end though I realized that she was only trying to protect her friend from harm even if it was over the top.  I felt awful for her when she got attacked! 

When we first meet up with Avery here, it’s apparent that even though she hasn’t lost her fighting spirit, she’s struggling with feelings of anger, helplessness, and vulnerability. Normal feelings, I’d say considering what happened.  I love that Liam was patient and kind even when he was in the dark about her situation, he could sense she needed understanding.  I love how things wrapped up here, and how Avery was able to find peace and closure with a surprising turn of events.


4 Suns



Monday, November 26, 2018

Review: Someone to Trust by Mary Balogh


Publication Date: November 27th 2018 by Berkley
Pages: 400
Purchase Links: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo

About the book:

During a rare white Christmas at Brambledean Court, the widow Elizabeth, Lady Overfield, defies convention by falling in love with a younger man in the latest novel in the Westcott series.

After her husband's passing, Elizabeth Overfield decides that she must enter into another suitable marriage. That, however, is the last thing on her mind when she meets Colin Handrich, Lord Hodges, at the Westcott Christmas house party. She simply enjoys his company as they listen to carolers on Christmas Eve, walk home from church together on Christmas morning, and engage in a spirited snowball fight in the afternoon. Both are surprised when their sled topples them into a snowbank and they end up sharing an unexpected kiss. They know there is no question of any relationship between them, for she is nine years older than he.

They return to London the following Season, both committed to finding other, more suitable matches. Still they agree to share one waltz at each ball they attend. This innocuous agreement proves to be one that will topple their worlds, as each dance steadily ensnares them in a romance that forces the two to question what they are willing to sacrifice for love. . . .

My Thoughts:
It’s not often that I read a historical romance where the woman is older than the man, I guess I don’t read that many in contemporary romances either.  That’s telling, right? I think there’s still a bit of a stigma with that combination even in the present, and I have to say I’m guilty of being just a little hesitant to pick up a book when I know the man is younger than the woman.  However, whenever Elizabeth and Colin were together on the page, I forgot their ages and just longed for them to find a way to be together.

Elizabeth, a thirty-five-year-old widow, feels blessed in her life with a large and loving family, but lately, she’s lonely and longs for the love and companionship a husband would offer. While the offer she receives doesn’t make her heart race like Colin does, it’s one that society wouldn’t look down on.

Colin, Lord Hodges, is twenty-six and feels the need to settle down and provide an heir pressing on him even though none of the female prospects stir anything in him like Elizabeth does.  He’s drawn to her inner and outer beauty, and the delight she seems to always find in life.

Someone to Trust is part of a series, but it can be read as a standalone.  Previous characters show up, but this story is all Elizabeth and Colin. I will say that the Westcott brood is growing with every book, and that I loved the unconditional love and support they provide to each other. Here they all rally around Elizabeth when she needs them most.

I’ve been enjoying Mary Balogh’s Westcott series! No matter that these characters live in a different time period, that’s all forgotten when I start reading and these characters come to life; their doubts and fears, their joy and yearning, and the absolute contentment and happiness they feel when all finally works out!

4 Suns




Saturday, November 24, 2018

Sunday Post #7


The Sunday Post is hosted by Kimberly @ Caffeinated reviewer book blog, and is a post to recap my bookish and non-bookish things from the last week. 

I'm so thankful to have some time off, but I did have a sad Friday.  Our orange tabby cat's health has been steadily declining, which is not unexpected since he just turned nineteen, but it was sad to watch.  He's been such a good, sweet cat all these years! He got so weak and miserable starting on Wednesday night that we had to take him in to be put down Friday. He was a well-loved member of our family, and I take comfort in the fact that he had so many good years. 

On a happier note, I'm spending time with my family right now, relaxing and enjoying the cooler temps and fall colors.  Also, I'm taking part in Kimberly's @Caffeinated Reviewer & Marlene's @Reading Reality Black Friday Book Bonanza blog hop giveaway so if you're interested click HERE.

Read:

(Click on cover for Goodreads link)

I had a great reading week! I enjoyed Chasing Shadows and Hate Notes, but I loved The Winter Sister!  I just downloaded a copy last Saturday, taking a chance on a debut author because the book description sounded interesting. On a whim I decided to start reading right away, because I was in the mood for a mystery book.  I ended up staying up until 2am to finish! Riveting and soooo good!


Received/Purchased /Library Lend:
(click on cover for Goodreads link)



I've never read any book by B.J.Daniels, but I love romantic suspense and have seen her books around so I decided to give her a go. Strawberry Hill's description has me intrigued with a hearing impaired hero, and I've enjoyed Catherine Anderson's romances in the past.  As I said above, I LOVED The Winter Sister! I loved Transcendence by Shay Savage, so I couldn't resist this novella from Beth's POV. I reading it now and loving it!  The have the first three books of the Veronica Speedwell series in print form, but I just bought an audio version of the first book, A Curious Beginning so that I'd start the series sooner.  I've seen good things about it so I'm hoping it's a hit with me. 

Watched:


I finally got around to watching Ready Player One. I had fun with it. Not sure how it compared to the book since I didn't read it, but it was a decent movie.



How was your week?

Thursday, November 22, 2018

Giveaway Hop: Black Friday Book Bonanza!


I'm excited to be taking part in the Black Friday Book Bonanza.  This giveaway hop is kindly hosted by Kimberly @ Caffeinated Reviewer and Marlene @ Reading Reality.  Click HERE for a list of participating blogs or see below.

I'm giving away winner's choice of a $20 Amazon or Barnes & Noble Gift Card OR up to $20 @The Book Depository. My giveaway is International as long as The Book Depository ships to your country.  See here for the list.

I thought I'd share 3 books I'm thankful to have read:
(Click on cover for Goodreads link)




a Rafflecopter giveaway

Here's a list of participating blogs:

Wednesday, November 21, 2018

Review: Hate Notes by Vi Keeland & Penelope Ward


Publication Date: November 6th 2018 by Montlake Romance
Pages: 301
Purchase Links: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Audible

About the book:

From New York Times bestselling authors Vi Keeland and Penelope Ward comes an unexpected love story of secondhand hearts and second chances…

It all started with a mysterious blue note sewn into a wedding dress.

Something blue.

I’d gone to sell my own unworn bridal gown at a vintage clothing store. That’s when I found another bride’s “something old.”

Stitched into the lining of a fabulously feathered design was the loveliest message I’d ever read: Thank you for making all of my dreams come true.

The name embossed on the blue stationery: Reed Eastwood, obviously the most romantic man who ever lived. I also discovered he’s the most gorgeous. If only my true-love fantasies had stopped there. Because I’ve since found out something else about Mr. Starry-Eyed.

He’s arrogant, cynical, and demanding. I should know. Thanks to a twist of fate, he’s my new boss. But that’s not going to stop me from discovering the story behind his last love letter. A love letter that did not result in a happily ever after.

But that story is nothing compared to the one unfolding between us. It’s getting hotter, sweeter, and more surprising than anything I could have imagined.

Something new.

But I have no idea how this one is going to end...

My Thoughts:
Charlotte’s a bit down on her luck and life has her trading in her unused wedding dress when she stumbles upon a fanciful wedding dress with a little blue note tucked inside.  The blue note is romantic and heartfelt, and Charlotte is so moved she tracks the author, Reed Eastwood, but she finds he’s nothing like what she imagined.  More like a complete jerk.

In a surprising turn of events Charlotte ends up working at his office, so of course the sparks fly! I do enjoy antagonistic romances, but I don’t like it if they get really mean. Sort of hard to forgive if things get too ugly, but that wasn't the case here.  When Charlotte and Reed meet, they started off on the wrong foot, but they get to know the person underneath when forced to work together.  Can I just say I love Iris?! She was a sweet, crafty old lady!

Charlotte was bright, quirky and full of life, even when she had every right to be down in the dumps, she was positive and saw the silver lining.  She was everything Reed didn’t know he needed.   Reed on the surface was serious and could be a bit broody, but his actions showed his big loving heart!

I loved Hate Notes! It was zany and fun it places and started off as I expected: as an antagonistic relationship turning in to romance, but it had an unexpected emotional twist.  One that made it a deeper, more meaningful read than I had counted on.

4.5 Suns






Saturday, November 17, 2018

Sunday Post #6


The Sunday Post is hosted by Kimberly @ Caffeinated reviewer book blog, and is a post to recap my bookish and non-bookish things from the last week. 

I've been trying to get back to exercising and eating better.  The high summer temps (110 degrees +!) put a damper on my running, but now that the weather has finally cooled off I'm excited to get back to it.  It's a challenge getting exercise in with it getting dark so early now, but I'm determined.


Read:


I had a great reading week binging on The Guild Hunter series by Nalini Singh, I'm all caught up with the Elena/Raphael books.  The series has been wonderful and thrilling!  The last book had a cliffhanger so I'm eagerly awaiting the next release! I have a giveaway running for the newest: Archangel's Prophecy, if you're interested.   


Purchased/Received/Library Lend:




RaeAnne Thayne's romances are always sweet, feel-good reads so I'm excited to read A Soldier's Return.  I'm a long-time fan of Roni Loren, she's a phenomenal writer, so of course I grabbed up The One You Fight For.  After reading Kimberly's  @Caffeinated Reviewer awesome review of Ice, I knew I had to read it.  I bought an e-copy and audio version to switch back and forth. My heart went out to Avery in Half Empty, so I'm happy to get her story in Chasing Shadows!

Watched:



I wanted a great suspense thriller and I ended up with these two movies.  Arrival wasn't bad per se, but it wasn't what I was looking for and it actually made me cry.  Hush was suspenseful and kept me on the edge of my seat, but man, the heroine had quite a few TSTL moments!! 

Anyhow, that was my week.  How was yours?



Friday, November 16, 2018

Review & Giveaway: Archangel's Prophecy by Nalini Singh


Archangel's Prophecy (Guild Hunter #11) by Nalini Singh
Publication Date: October 30th 2018 by Berkley
Pages: 372
Purchase Links: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | Apple 

About the book:

Midnight and dawn, Elena’s wings are unique among angelkind…and now they’re failing. The first mortal to be turned into an immortal in angelic memory, she’s regressing. Becoming more and more human. Easier to hurt. Easier to kill.

Elena and Raphael must unearth the reason for the regression before it’s too late and Elena falls out of the sky. Yet even as they fight a furious battle for Elena’s very survival, violent forces are gathering in New York and across the world.

In China, the Archangel Favashi is showing the first signs of madness. In New York, a mysterious sinkhole filled with lava swallows a man whole. In Africa, torrential monsoon rains flood rolling deserts. And in Elena’s mind whispers a haunting voice that isn’t her own.

This time, survival may not be possible…not even for the consort of an archangel.

My Thoughts:
When Archangel’s Prophecy was offered to me for review, I grabbed it up thinking it would be fine to read as a stand-alone since I read Archangel’s Viper (the previous Guild Hunter book) without having read any previous book in the series and I enjoyed it.  However, I soon realized that would not work here with Archangel’s Prophecy being an Elena/Raphael book.

After reading a little about the history of Elena and Raphael, and the fact that Archangel’s Prophecy sounded like a game-changing installment I realized I needed to go back to the beginning to fully appreciate Archangel’s Prophecy.  I’m thrilled that I did! 

For the last three weeks I’ve been devouring the Guild Hunter series, the Elena/Raphael books, and it’s been an exciting ride! Nalini Singh has created a fascinating world where a Cadre of ten Archangel’s rule designated territories of the earth; lesser angels, vampires, and humans all under their authority. Power, political intrigue, immortals and mortals clashing, good vs. evil; all factors that make these books a riveting read, but it’s the personal relationships that make these stories come to life, IMO.

I’ve been alternately listening and reading through the series, gobbling it up as fast as I could.  For those who enjoy audio books, Justine Eyre is a phenomenal narrator! 

If you haven’t read the previous books there may some spoilery type of information below. Not anymore than you’d get than by reading the series book descriptions, but still, I thought I’d warn you before reading on.

It’s in this world where Elena, a mortal Guild Vampire Hunter, and Raphael, an enormously powerful Archangel, meet and fall in love, forever changing the path they thought their lives would take.

Elena and Raphael are characters I’ve come to love, each multi-faceted, imperfect, but with genuinely good hearts.  Their chemistry was like wildfire from the first meeting, dangerous and volatile, but it’s the love, loyalty and devotion that make me adore this couple!  They’re a united front facing all the challenges Nalini Singh throws their way!

There are six Elena/Raphael books, including Archangel’s Prophecy, each one having a source of conflict introduced that’s solved/wrapped up by the end.  That is, except for Archangel’s Prophecy! Ack! I was warned going in that there was a cliffhanger ending here, something I’m not a fan of, but I have to say this felt more like a “to be continued…” sort of situation.  Still, I had a sense of impending doom while reading, Elena weakening further and further as the story goes along.

The mystery behind Harrison’s (Elena’s vampire brother-in-law) brutal attack and the Cascade shenanigans distracted a little from Elena’s worsening condition, but I was worried throughout.  Vague and scary prophecies didn’t help.  However, there was hope with a shocking ending that left a lot of unanswered questions. Plus, (not that I’ve read every one of her books) I don’t think Nalini Singh has ever left her readers with anything but a HEA. 

Archangel’s Prophecy is probably my least favorite installment because of the cliffy and unanswered questions, but it’s not a book to be missed!  I was glued to the pages to find out what happens! I was happy seeing Laric again after the last book, and I’m loving Elena’s half-sister Eve! I even had a soft-spot for Jeffrey in a couple of scenes.

I skipped the Guild Hunter books centered on side-characters, except for Archangel’s Venom, but I plan on working my way through them while I wait for Elena and Raphael’s story to continue. 

My Rating:

3-3.5 Suns for Archangel's Prophecy

4-4.5 Suns for the overall series 



Excerpt from ARCHANGEL’S PROPHECY
By Nalini Singh

Illium turned in a direction that would take them to the Catskills if they kept on going.
Sweeping closer to him, she said, “You just want to fly?”
Hair rippling in the quiet but cutting wind, he twisted down in a complicated fall before flying back up to her side. She laughed at his showing off. That was Illium. An angel of violent power who had a heart that might almost be mortal. And, these days, she could appreciate his tricks again. Not a single angel in the city had been ready to witness his acrobatics in the immediate aftermath of the day he’d crashed out of the sky.
Elena would never forget her screaming fear.
To his credit, Illium had flown with absolute discretion for months, letting the memory dull and fade.
When he returned to her side today, his face was flushed, the gold of his eyes rich. “Sky’s too beautiful to shut ourselves away in a club.”
“Just don’t forget I’m not as fast as you. Also, I’m currently lame.”
Illium lifted one cupped hand close to his shoulder, the other moving back and forth . . . and she realized he was playing a tiny violin in response to her morose tone.
“Crossbow, Bluebell.” Narrowed eyes. “Remember the crossbow.”
He dived, his wicked laughter floating up on the night air. Lips twitching, Elena continued to glide, letting the air currents sweep her along with cold but gentle hands. Illium, meanwhile, flew circles around her—but he never went far, always close enough to halt her descent should she tumble.
She landed a number of times to rest her wings, once in an isolated park whispering and dark. A luminescent insect appeared then disappeared from sight before she could truly see it, an earthbound star. The ghostly owl sitting on a tree branch watched her with eyes even more luminous.
A sigh deep in her mind, an old, old presence restless in Sleep.
The hairs rose on her arms.
Then Illium shot them both up into the sky again, and together, they flew far beyond the diamond-bright skyline of the city and over the sleeping homes of ordinary people who lived in a world of vampires and angels, blood and immortality.
Another rest stop for Elena.
Another throb of pain from the cut on her forearm.
Another watchful owl, this one landing on Illium’s shoulder without his knowledge. Ashwini had told her not to be afraid of the owls, so Elena ignored the goose bumps and said, Hello, with her mind. A good night to fly.
A vein began to throb at her temple.
The answer came a long time later, after they were in the air again, the glow of the sinkhole visible from the distance.
It has been an eon since I flew.

Posted by arrangement with Berkley, a member of Penguin Group (USA) LLC, A Penguin Random House Company. Copyright © Nalini Singh, 2018.


The lovely people of Berkley have generously provided a Paperback Copy of Archangel's Prophecy to one lucky reader!  The giveaway is open to US Residents only.

Tuesday, November 13, 2018

Review: Want Me, Cowboy by Maisey Yates


Publication Date: November 6th 2018 by Harlequin Desire
Pages: 240
Purchase Links: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo

About the book: 

Her rancher boss is looking for the perfect wife...and she wants the job!

Poppy Sinclair kept her feelings for Isaiah Grayson secret for a decade. When her infuriatingly gorgeous Stetson-wearing boss enlists her help in finding him a convenient wife, she threatens to quit. Until Isaiah counters with an interesting proposal: Why doesn't she marry him? Can she say yes to sharing his life and his bed, but not his heart?

My Thoughts:
Poppy has been in love with her boss for ten years and the guy doesn’t realize it! I could forgive this to a point because it’s clear from the beginning that Isaiah, while being a brilliant business man is socially clueless.  Isaiah’s on the spectrum in some way even if it’s not officially stated that he is, all around him acknowledge that he’s not the average male when it comes to feelings or social interactions. So being around Poppy and not realizing that she loves him or even looking at her potential romantic partner was easier to excuse.

Isaiah isn’t a hearts and flowers kind of guy since Poppy’s foster sister betrayed him several years ago.  But Isaiah likes the idea of a wife, family, and stability, so his sensible answer is to put out an ad to find a woman to fill the role.  I can’t imagine a job more infuriating or heartbreaking than searching for the potential wife for the man you love, but thankfully Poppy doesn’t just roll over and take it, and the quest doesn’t last for more than a heartbeat. Poppy’s got a spine and stands up to Isaiah.  Isaiah’s brilliant reaction is to have Poppy fill the role; I mean she’s been the one constant in his life forever, gets him like no other woman can, and he quickly learns that they have off-the-charts-chemistry!

Oh, I just loved Want Me, Cowboy!  Maisy Yates has a way of touching my heart with every one of her romances!  Unrequited love that blossoms into more is one of my favorite romances!  Both Isaiah and Poppy were insecure and worried to show the depth of their feelings beyond the arrangement they strike up, but the sizzle and emotions between them made it impossible to keep each other at arm’s length, even in an effort to protect their hearts.


4.5 Suns




Connect with Maisey Yates:




Spotlight & Giveaway: Chasing Shadows by Catherine Bybee


I'm really excited for Avery's story! She rubbed me the wrong way in the beginning of the last book, but I ended up admiring her fierce loyalty to her friends, and felt really bad about what happened to her! I can't wait for her story!
In honor of the release Montake Romance is hosting a giveaway of a copy of Chasing Shadows and a $25 Amazon Giftcard!


Publication Date: November 13th 2018 by Montlake
Purchase Links: Amazon | Barnes & Noble 

About the book:

Avery Grant doesn’t date. Her first marriage was a mutually beneficial contract that gave her the financial freedom she needed to step away from her controlling parents. Wealthy and single, the last thing she’s looking for is love sneaking in to mess up her life plans. And after a brutal attack, she’s determined to never be vulnerable again, even if the new man in her life helps her feel safe.
Mesmerized from the moment he sets his eyes on Avery, Liam is driven to learn everything about this tough, sexy, challenging woman. Breaking down her defenses won’t be easy, but Liam refuses to be pushed away. All he needs is a tiny crack in Avery’s armor to wiggle his way into her heart.
But when a terrifying lie about her attacker’s fate comes to light, Avery’s past returns to haunt her. Now she’s willing to put herself in danger to get the answers she needs. That means jeopardizing the best thing that’s ever happened to her: Liam.
Excerpt:

Avery’s head shot up at the sound of a female voice calling her name.

“Lori?”

Oh, damn…

When Lori was at their table, Avery detached from Liam’s side and stood for a hug. “What are you doing here? Where’s Reed?”

Lori eyed Liam while she answered the questions. “Reed’s on his way down. We’re going out to dinner. Wanted a drink first.”

What were the chances of Lori excusing herself before Avery was forced to make an introduction?

Lori reached out a hand toward Liam. “I’m Lori.”

Liam stood; a broad smile matched his broad chest. “Liam Holt.” Once he released Lori’s hand, he pulled out a bar stool. “Sit, we just ordered drinks.”

Avery wanted to elbow his ribs.

Instead, she smiled.

Liam signaled for Nikki.

“Liam, huh? Avery hasn’t mentioned you.”

He pulled Avery’s chair closer to his and waited for her to sit. “We haven’t known each other long.”

Lori sent a questioning look to Avery. Instead of adding to Liam’s explanation.

“I’ve known Lori for a few years. We live in the same building.”

“What do you do, Liam?”

Small talk … is that what this was going to be?

Lori signaled Reed when he walked in the door. “This is my husband.”

Avery laughed. “You love saying that, don’t you?”

Lori nodded.

“They’re newlyweds,” Avery explained.

Once again Liam stood when Reed approached the table.

“Look who I found,” Lori said.

Reed kissed Avery’s cheek. “I haven’t seen you here in a while.”

“That’s because you two never come up for air,” Avery teased.

“This is Liam … Avery’s friend.” Yeah, Lori wanted more details.

The men shook hands.

“Have I ever met one of your friends?” he asked.

Avery glared. “Smooth, Reed … really smooth.”

Lori nudged her husband’s arm. “Stop teasing.” She turned her focus on Liam. “Avery keeps her private life private.”

Avery tried not to flinch when Liam placed a hand over hers. “I’ve figured that out recently.”

“How did you two meet?” Reed asked.

Avery said “the gym” at the same time Liam said “a bar.”

Lori’s lawyer radar spiked. Avery saw it in her eyes. “Those two things are worlds apart.”

She caught Liam’s hand and squeezed.

“The first time I saw you was at Pug’s Bar. I approached you at the gym.”

“I knew it. That was you at Pug’s. How did you figure out where I worked out?” She’d been asking herself that question for over a week.

“That wasn’t hard. Leslie had a gym bag.”

“Who’s Leslie?” Lori asked.

Avery didn’t look away from Liam. “A friend. So your job at the gym wasn’t on accident?”

“I might have approached Brenda about a side job so I could meet you.”

Avery’s jaw dropped.

“Who’s Brenda?” Reed asked.

“The owner of the gym,” Avery and Liam said at the same time. “How did you know I was there on Tuesday and Friday nights?” She wasn’t sure if his actions were exciting or scary.

“Appointment book. Brenda’s office is always open.”

“Wait, wait, wait.” Lori placed a hand between the two of theirs. “You see Avery in a bar. You search out a location of her gym, follow her to it, get a job there, and now you’re both here having drinks?”

Liam offered a brief, unapologetic nod.

Lori grabbed Avery’s hand. “How well do you know this guy?”

Avery liked the gleam in Liam’s eyes. “He’s safe.”

“What he just described is a little too close to stalking for my taste.”

Reed placed a hand on Lori’s shoulder. “Simmer down, Counselor. If Liam had an ulterior motive, he wouldn’t have told us all that.”

“I wanted to meet you,” Liam said. “

Yeah, well, you’ve met her.” Lori wasn’t happy.

Nikki showed up with Avery’s and Liam’s drinks.

“My usual, Nikki,” Lori told her.

“Hon, our reservations are in thirty minutes. Maybe we should go.”

Lori looked at Reed like he was crazy. “We aren’t leaving him with her. He could be a sociopath.”

Liam smiled, his eyes crinkling with amusement. “I’m not.”

“That’s what they all say.”

Avery put a free hand in the air. “Chill, Lori.”

Avery realized that her other hand had somehow ended up back in Liam’s. His thumb stroked the underside of her wrist in a strangely calming way.

“Do you want a drink, Reed?” Nikki was still standing there, watching the four of them.

“No, thank you. We’re leaving.”

Lori pushed back her chair. “We’re going to talk about this later,” she warned Avery. “And you … just so you know, I’m an attorney, and my big, burly husband here is in private security. He has even bigger friends.”

Liam reached into his back pocket and removed his wallet. From it, he pulled out what looked like a business card. “I have nothing to hide.”

Lori glanced at it briefly before Reed snatched it from her fingertips. “C’mon. Let’s leave them to their date.”

Liam stood again and shook Reed’s hand before he ushered Lori out of the bar.

“That was intense.”

“My friends are protective.”

“Understatement.”

“You really went through all that just to meet me?”

Liam picked up his cocktail for the first time. “Worked, didn’t it?”

Avery let loose his hand and lifted her glass to his. “Yes, it did.”





Connect with Catherine Bybee:



Saturday, November 10, 2018

Sunday Post #5


The Sunday Post is kindly hosted by Kimberly @ Caffeinated reviewer book blog.

It's been a couple weeks since I posted.  I meant to both weekends, but I've been busy with travel back and forth from Southern to Northern California, and grand-kids have a way of consuming every minute of free time!  I'm up in Northern California right now and the smoke from the fires just south of here is really bad!  I was planning on getting a run in up here, but the air quality is too bad, and we don't want to take the grand-kids to the park either!  It does make for a pretty sunrise, though:



Read:



Loved Diamond Fire! I can't wait for Catalina's next story. I've been binging on the Guild Hunter's books, just Elena and Raphael's books, because I received Angel's Prophecy for review thinking it would be okay to read without reading the prior books since I did with Archangel's Viper (Venom's book).  I quickly realized that I needed their history before reading it. I'm almost done with Archangel's Legion. What a great series! 
LOVED The Simple Wild! Wonderful character growth, mending family relationships, and a steamy love-to-hate romance made it a 5 star read for me! Want Me Cowboy was another favorite! Sooo good. I'll have my review up this week.



Purchased/Received/Library Lend:



I'm really excited for Serious Moonlight! I've been a fan of Jenn Bennett for a while, loving her adult paranormal series' and YA has been wonderful. I loved Ezekiel Boone's creepy series The Hatching so I can't wait to read The Mansion. I've been a fan of Lisa Gardner's mysteries even before I was introduced to Goodreads or even knew what a blog was so I'm thrilled for her newest. Maisey Yates writes beautifully heartfelt romances, and I've been waiting for Bea and Dane's story for a while.  Hope Dane isn't too much of a jerk in Unbroken Cowboy. Never got to Isla and the Happily Ever After so I'm interested to see how I like Stephanie Perkins' writing years after finishing Anna & Lola.


Watched:


The Lincoln Lawyer is a movie I've wanted to watch but forgot about.  Finally got around to it and it was a lot of fun! Marisa Tomei is so pretty in it!

How's your week been?