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Saturday, November 30, 2013

Night Moves (G-Man #3)by Andrea Smith

 photo NightMovesG-Man3KindleCover_zps87139e3a.jpg Synopsis

There's a new Alpha in town . . . and he's a Brit!

Darcy Nicole Sheridan, is 22 years-old, beautiful, single, spirited, sexy and - spoiled. She knows that about herself. Raised by wealthy (and doting) parents as an only child, Darcy pretty much coasts through life until her heart was inexplicably broken by her boyfriend, Darin.

To ease the pain, Darcy flies to Belize over the holidays fully intending to wallow in self-pity and distance herself from her ex. Her pity party is short-lived however, after observing a very handsome, very intriguing man on the beach. Darcy becomes the focus of the smokin' hot, wealthy and somewhat mysterious 'E.J.'
Soon she finds herself entangled with an alpha like no other… Her world is rocked by a series of events that will forever change the course of her life, showing her what love is all about; and forcing her to come to terms with hidden sexual pleasures only one man could fulfill…
This book is intended for mature audiences!


Our Rating 4.5 Star:
Spoiled, self-centered, sarcastic, sneaky, stubborn. Those are just a few words to describe Darcy. But she's also smart, sexy, sophisticated, strong, and self-assured and yes those are just the ones starting with the letter S.

When she finds her boyfriend of a year cheating on her she decides to go off on a holiday. What Darcy wasn't expecting was dominating E.J. and how he makes her feel. Weeks after her time with him and she's still consumed by the memories of what he did to her in those few short encounters. Suddenly she finds herself facing none other than E.J. or Easton as he actually goes by at her best friends wedding where he's the best man and she's stuck with him as the maid of honor.

Their times together is explosive, but what happens when feeling get involved especially from a man who says he can't love.
Ok this one totally drew me in so much so that I stayed up till 2:30 in the morning finishing it!!! Yes Darcy was a bit into herself throughout but she grew amazingly by the end of the story. And Easton where oh where to start with him, sexy brit with a dominating personality is only the beginning with him. He's arrogant and cocky but he wears it so well. Reading about his past helps you see why he is the way he is and I loved seeing how Darcy helped him want to have more in his future. Great Read loved this one and definitely enjoyed those steamy scenes.

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About the Author:

Andrea Smith is an Ohio native, currently residing in southern Ohio.  Ms. Smith is the mother of two grown sons; grandmother of four.  The 'Baby Series' trilogy is Ms. Smith's first self-published work.  Having previously been employed as an executive for a global corporation, Ms. Smith decided to leave the corporate world and pursue her life-long dream of writing fiction.


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One Night with Him by K.S. Smith

Synopsis

Reagan Larson has been dealt her fair share of tragedy, but each time she has come out on top.  Her heart is callused, but she still has hope. She may be the last one of her sorority sisters to still be single, but she knows Mr. Right is out there. Reagan is ready to move forward with her life when the time is right, or so she thinks, unfortunately when love is staring her straight in the face she keeps finding ways to hide from it.

The last thing Cole Conrad is looking for is commitment.  He is set in his bachelor ways and has no intentions of leaving them.  Having any woman he desires at his fingertips is how he has always lived. Cole is used to playing by his rules, until he meets Reagan Larson, and for the first time -after what had to have been one of his most fulfilling evenings with a woman- he wakes up feeling alone and used. 

                       Amazon
                                                                    

 

Our 4 Star Rating

Reagan is living up a night on the town at her best friends bachelorette party when she runs into GQ. At least that's what she calls the model worthy hunk. When she runs into him again at her hotel what happens is one drunk fun, crazy night, but when she wakes up in the morning horrified that for the first time in her 27 years she's had a one night stand she does what any girl would do she runs.

When he doesn't call her she figures that he wasn't really interested anyways and tries to forget about him, until she finds out he's the best man for the wedding! Cole is a ladies man but with Reagan he wants something more the problem will be in convincing her.

I enjoyed the story line, but I wish there would have been more to it. More to their backstories about past relationships or one night stands in Cole's case. I loved the secondary characters seen throughout, but wish there would've been more to Reagan and Cole. This story is told solely from the POV of Reagan another book is set to come out 2014 from Cole's POV.

 
 






                                                               
                                                                Meet K.S. Smith




BIOGRAPHY
K.S. Smith is a twenty seven year old aspiring new contemporary romance author with her debut novel, One Night With Him releasing this fall.  When she is not writing you will most likely find her nose in a book, spending time with her family and friends or dedicating her time to the military through her favorite non-profit organization.  


K.S. Smith was born and raised in Tampa, FL and continues to build her life there in her new home with her boyfriend of ten years who will hopefully one day put all book boyfriends to shame with an out of this world proposal.




Friday, November 29, 2013

Holding Out Cover Re-Reveal by Lila Rose

Holding Out Cover   add-to-goodreads-button31
Synopsis
Zara Edgingway is a twenty-six-year-old secretary. She has a daughter that apparently knows-it-all and a best friend that could possibly have the mouth of Satan, but she's been with her through hell and back. Then there's the hunk'a'licious biker neighbour finally showing interest in her. If only she isn't about to face her next obstacle in life, the one she ran from six years ago: her ex husband.
Talon Marcus is the president of the Hawks Motorcycle Club. For two years he's had his eye on the quiet, reclusive, yet sassy, neighbour Zara. Finally, he has the chance to claim her as his woman. Just when her past catches up with her, she'll need, not only his protection, but the help from his biker brothers. Now, if only she'd stop fighting him along the way.
  Excerpts Teaser 1: Unlocking the door and swinging it open, I realized I should have hoped a little harder. Talon stood there looking spunky in dark jeans, a black tee, and motorcycle boots. His hair looked wet from a recent shower, and I wondered if I could blow-dry it for him with my mouth. My traitorous heart leaped, my body tingled, and...what the frig? How'd my underwear get wet already? Wait, had I peed myself? I looked down at the floor. Nope, wasn't wet. That meant only one thing. “I need to get laid or break out my Gold Finger on maximum speed.” Deanna burst out laughing, and Talon seemed smug. I looked at them both confused. Oh, hell no. I did not just say that aloud. See! Drinks, Talon, and me. It was a no-go! Teaser 2: “I really hate this talkin' shit. I want you as my woman. Long-fuckin'-term. I know we still got a lot’ta shit we need to learn 'bout one another, but that's the best part. For once in my life, I'll try to be patient, for you.” Teaser 3: “Kitten, please look at me.” “Why?” “So I can tell you how fuckin’ sorry I am. I wish you’d never seen that, ‘cause it will never happen again. And I wish I could take that pained look I saw on your face, those tears that fell from your eyes, and wipe away any hurt you felt.”  
Meet the Author
Lila Rose lives in country Victoria Australia with her husband and two children. When she isn't writing she's trying to control her mob from killing each other and helping her husband with the family business. Lila Has always dabbled in writing, though, only recently will have her debut novel Holding Out released in December 2013. Then she'll just need to find time to bring out more from the Hawks Motorcycle Club series.
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My Today by H.J. Bellus (My Way Series)



Synopsis:
Book #2 in The My Way Series
Book #1 is My Now & Forever (Milly's Story)
Lacey’s Story…
Covering up pain is easy. It’s keeping it tucked away that’s hard. I’ve always needed the cover of tattoos to hide the nasty past that leached its way into me, tainting me beneath my skin. Not the shiny, trendy tats, but the ugly broken kind, meant to keep the world at bay. If they weren’t enough, then my piercings, foul mouth and crazy hair usually did the trick. Life had taught me to never follow the rules, because when you do, you get burned.
That philosophy served its purpose, until I met someone who turned my life upside down. Milly, the little hoochie, stormed into my life and changed everything with her undying faith in me, her love and her shitty coffee concoctions. I found a family in Milly, and her sexy farm boy, Cree. She accepted me without hesitation, and never ran from the dark and dangerous secrets that I harbored. My new family loved me unconditionally, with their showers of sprinkles and impromptu dance parties.
My life was perfectly imperfect until Tripp and his crazy-ass ideas of princesses. Our relationship is what most would describe as fuel meeting fire. We were both hell bent on burning each other to the ground. Tripp, fresh out of rehab, moved in with Milly and Cree to try and make a new life for himself. Tripp, the sexy as hell, charismatic beast, soon became one of my best friends. We shared our love of ice cream and tattoos as we blazed our own path that could only lead to a beautiful train wreck. The only question left is, will we set the countryside ablaze with our hot tempers and foul mouths, or will we paint our own happy ending filled with all the gushy shit normal people crave?
****Foul language & Sexual Content***
FOR A MATURE AUDIENCE ONLY


Our Rating and Review: 5 HUGE STARS!!! 
OH MY....What a TRIPP!!

My Today starts up where My Now and Forever left off, except now we get to see Lacey and Tripp's story.

We knew Lacey had a pretty horrible past, but when you find out all the details you'll barely be able to see the screen. Keep tissues handy for this book, and not just for Lacey, but Tripp too. 

Now along with the sad, hard parts there's also the fun so "don't ever let anyone dull your sparkle" is a great theme to live by throughout.

Their pasts have left them broken, but together they might just be able to heal themselves and with their family there to support them you know anything is possible. 

"I had never been a believer in the mushy-gushy shit of soul mates and love. But this Beast dry humping me on the floor in a gym, while doing push-ups over me, just made me a believer."

Tripp and Lacey story was a roller coaster but in the end you want to do it all over again all day long
They have the moments that make you laugh out loud and then the times you have to stop set the kindle down and blow your nose....taking a deep breath before you dive back in.
The needed one another to breath and they healed one another. It was a great story and we Loved Every Moment of it!!!


Amazon Purchase Link



A little bit About this Kiss Ass Author!
I'm just a simple girl who loves the country life.. .oh yeah! & a good corn dog! Throw in a little Vanilla Ice, and shits bound to get crazy! Be brave...
-Loves country life & music
-Gets the case of the "eff-its" often
-Loves Big
-Hurts Big
-love corn dogs & candy.... & (sex & candaaay)
-My heart is happy writing!!!
Goodreads Author Page
Facebook Author Fan Page
Follow Heidi On Twitter ~~  hjbellus


Be Sure to Purchase My Now & Forever. 
The first book in this series is a MUST READ!      

My Now & Forever Purchase Link

Wednesday, November 27, 2013

VIP by M. Robinson



Title: VIP
Author: M. Robinson
Genre: Erotica
Publication Date: December 4, 2013



The beginning- A point in time or space where something starts.
32 year old Sebastian Vanwell, was a very successful yacht broker, who always loved the design and architecture of a luxurious yacht. His only addiction was being on the water. He loved it, he thrived on it, and he needed it in his life. After a very stable, loving child hood with a few bumps, Sebastian married the love of his life. The one person that he knew would always be there. Julia was his rock, and he loved her more than life itself. Sebastian kept his addiction to the water under control, wanting to keep his time with his wife and son his number one obsession, that was until he saw her. This new addiction haunted him, the one compulsion that he couldn’t control no matter how hard he tried.
Ysabelle Telle hit him hard, knocking the wind from his lungs. Coming from worlds apart, beautiful, dark complexion Ysabelle Telle didn’t have the rich, protected background that Sebastian Vanwell had. Ysabelle lived a life of hell, in poverty, growing up with a drug addict mother that never cared, and horrific living conditions. Ysabelle lived for one person and one person only; herself. She was pure perfection, her beauty along with a flawless body had men lined up, driveling over her insuring her success as a VIP.
There are too many words that describe the effects when two diverse worlds like theirs collide. They both have too much to lose to get caught in the forceful pull, which could destroy them both.
Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and drug use. Intended for mature audiences.















M. Robinson loves to read. She favors anything that has angst, romance, triangles, cheating, love, and of course sex! She has been reading since the Babysitters Club and R.L. Stein.
She was born in New Jersey but was raised in Tampa Fl. She is currently pursuing her Ph.D in psychology, with two years left.
She is married to an amazing man who she loves to pieces. They have two German Shepherd mixes and a Tabby cat.
Her debut novel VIP will be released in December 2013. Add it to your TBR list!!




Tuesday, November 26, 2013

Silk (Whispering Cove #8)by Cathryn Fox


Synopsis
Unwrap a little holiday wickedness… Whispering Cove, Book 8 The pleasures of Christmas. Love. The two things Jon Wilson doesn’t think he deserves, thanks to a holiday accident that took his parents. Under pressure from his uncle, Jon returns to Whispering Cove for the annual festivities, but he’s counting down the hours until he can hop a Christmas Eve plane back to his Miami medical practice. Chef Lila Sheppard left the big city and its fast-talking men for Whispering Cove, hoping to settle down with a nice, small-town boy. Until Mr. Picket Fence appears, though, she’s not opposed to a tango on the wild side. When Jon shows up—gorgeous, hot and temporary—she figures Santa delivered her Christmas present a few days early. Soon they’re heating up cold, wintry nights, but as they get lost in each other’s arms, Lila begins to realize their brief affair has become something more. Yet she wonders if there’s enough magic in Whispering Cove to show Jon that love can heal all hearts…and that there’s only one place he belongs.  Product Warnings Contains enough passion to melt ice, and turn any blustery wintry night into a hot, sultry holiday. 

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Our 4 Star Review
For Jon Christmas time is nothing more than a reminder of everything he lost seven years ago. He stays far away from his hometown because he doesn't want to be reminded of how much everyone blames him for what happened, but when his Great Uncle unexpectedly calls saying he needs Jon at home he has no choice but to come back and face everything and everyone he left behind. Lila came to Whispering Cove to get away from the big city and enjoy a peaceful life cooking on a friends show and eventually renting out an Inn where she can cook and take care of its guests. When Jon comes in looking like a yummy Christmas present she wonders if Santa is delivering her someone she can take care of for the rest of her life. But Jon's secrets and the hurts of his past could ruin things before they ever really get a chance to find happiness together. Loved Lila's easy going attitude and her happiness at the little things in life. The way she is portrayed makes it all too easy to fall in love with her and hope she gets everything she deserves. Jon was so hard on himself and sometimes you just wanted to shake him and tell him to wake up and take a good look at how people were really treating him, but with Lila's help I enjoyed how she showed him the true meaning of the holidays and how the past wasn't his fault and how to overcome his hurt. Although this is part of a series is can be read as a standalone novella.

The Talisman Trilogy by Brenda Pandos 

(Click Above to get the entire Box set)
We were first introduced to The Talisman Trilogy when we reviewed the Supernatural Six Boxed Set, a collection of six supernatural reads by various authors. That boxed set was a great way to be introduced to a whole slew of great Supernatural Stories. We loved this series check out our review of all three books below. 

The Emerald Talisman (Talisman #1) 
To be normal, sixteen-year-old Julia Parker would shed her empathic gift in a second. Life has been difficult since her mother's mysterious disappearance ten years earlier - an event she witnessed, but can't remember. Julia's situation becomes more complicated after a near death experience from a blood thirsty stalker. As high school students go missing it is clear there is a connection to her own experience--past and present. Someone has to stop the madness and a chance encounter with a creepy psychic foretells that only Julia is the key to stopping the madness, but it may require the life of the one she loves. 

 Our 5 Star Review (This Review can also be found under Supernatural Six Boxed Set) Since her mothers disappearance when she was 5 years old, she doesn't remember what what happened even though she was there. Ever since then though she's been able to since peoples emotions. When she runs out of gas one night she decides to walk the last mile home......through a forest at night. Of course something doesn't go right with that scenario and she meets Nicholas. He's different from anyone she's ever met and his presence is calming compared to most people, but what secrets is he hiding? Nicholas was such a lost soul and throughout all I wanted was for him to be able to live life a little more normally and with Julia you root for them to get their chance. Loved seeing Julia grow throughout and had fun watching the banter between her and her brother. 


The Sapphire Talisman (Talisman #2) 
With the local vampire coven decimated, Julia and Nicholas try to begin a somewhat normal life together. Bound by secrecy from a shape shifter determined to see Julia’s world-saving prediction come to fruition, Julia isn’t allowed to tell Nicholas the leader survived, ransacking her happiness with guilt. When Alora returns, bent on revenge, the reunion forces Nicholas and Julia to choose what they are willing to live and die for. 

 Our 4.5 Star Review Months after they decimated Alora's coven, Nicolas and Julia are getting anxious waiting for the other shoe to drop. Julia is wracked with guilt over the secrets she's keeping from Nicholas and everyone else in her life. As the vampires come back what new truths will be uncovered? What will happen to everyone Julia cares about? And who is Alora really and what is she after? Poor Julia had such a hard time in this one and the story kept you on the edge of your seat waiting to see what would happen and what was really going on behind the scenes. Nicholas was totally swoon worthy and it just breaks your heart seeing how hard of a time he was having. Loved how the plot evolved and kept you guessing as to what would happen in the final book in the Trilogy. 


The Onyx Talisman (Talisman #3) 
Alora looked back and the corner of her lip turned up. “It’s always darkest before the dawn, Julia. Good luck.” Her words sent chills up my spine as she vanished. Unrest stirs deep in Scotts Valley. Filled with uncertainty, Julia anxiously awaits Nicholas’ return. Phil, hurt and unsure of his place as a sober vampire, holds the pieces of Julia’s fragile psyche together, secretly hoping Nicholas stays away forever. Scarlett bides her time, plotting for the perfect moment to prove herself and earn redemption. But somewhere in L.A., Alora conspires to reclaim her talisman and strip Julia of everything she holds dear. Little do they know, a war is coming and more than one vampire would like to see the Prince of Vampires overthrown. As more and more vampires show up from nowhere, addicted to her scent, Julia must pick her allies carefully before it’s too late. Can Julia bargain with fate? When the time comes, will she even have a choice? Find out how it all ends in this explosive grand finale of The Talisman Trilogy. 

 Our 4.5 Star Review 
 We see everything come together come together in this action packed finale. From finding out Nicholas' fate to surprise re appearances of characters we thought were gone. From one surprise to the next of people who knew more than they let on and trying to keep up with all the new twists and turns you really get sucked into the story rooting for the good guys and anxiously awaiting to see how everything turns out. And of course the real shockers are in the last couple of chapters. 

 This is a great series that you'll read over and over and have fun with characters you'll love, hate, and love to hate (ahm Katie). This is a must read if you love a good vampire read with bonus twists.

About the Author 
Brenda Pandros lives in California with her husband and two energetic boys. Besides having seven books published, Brenda is a computer whisperer, web/graphic designer, chocolate connoisseur, sister, daughter, aunt, friend, family fun & games coordinator, saved by grace, geek, housekeeper, laundress, cook (occasionally), chauffeur, gardener, nurse, a tad distracted and much more... (and not in that order).
She LOVES to hear from readers! Ask to be subscribed to her newsletter so you won't miss anything brendapandos(at)gmail(dot)com.
You can find out more about what's happening on Facebook, twitter, or blog at www.brendapandos.com.





Monday, November 25, 2013

A Naughty Little Christmas (Cowboys, Cops, and Kilts: 8 Seasonally Seductive Romances from Bestselling Authors)

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BARNES AND NOBLE PURCHASE LINK!


Synopsis

Cowboys, Cops, and Kilts: 8 Seasonally Seductive Romances from Bestselling Authors
*~*~*~*
COWBOY JACKPOT: CHRISTMAS
Cowboy Jackpot Series, Book 1
Randi Alexander
Award Winning Novella. A lucky first kiss in front of a Las Vegas slot machine pays off big for bull rider Boone Hancock and college student Gigi Colberg-Staub.

Our 4 Star Review

Boone has just won at a rodeo and he's ready to have some fun. Gigi is in Vegas for her Birthday and the Christmas Holiday when Cowboy Boone shows interest in her and a lucky kiss helps her win big it's the start of something amazing. Or is it?

Gigi was a strong lead and Boone was fun as long as he let his feelings take hold. This one was a fun quick read and am excited to read more in the series.

*~*~*~*
A NAUGHTY NOELLE
The 19th Precinct, Book 1.5
Ann Bruce
When injured vice cop Sergio Ramirez accepts Noelle Mason’s offer to help him, she has no idea the danger she faces, most of it from her desire to share her bed with him.

Our 4 Star Review

This one was short but I loved the story line. I enjoyed Noelle and her compassion even with someone she didn't know. She allowed his past actions to show who Sergio really was and kept him safe even when she didn't know what was going on.


*~*~*~*
HOLIDAY SURPRISE: UNWRAPPED
Aliyah Burke
Recuperating in wintery Massachusetts, Heath Dixon gives cold-hating Kassia Green something much hotter to focus on. But can he keep her after Christmas? Like…forever?

Our 4 Star Review

Kassia is house sitting for her cousin over the holidays and when she comes back from a day of shopping she gets one heck of a surprise. Heath has just gotten home from his tour and he's a bit broken, but Kassia's spirit bring him back to life. Can what they have be more than a holiday fling?

Kassia was a firecracker and she was a blast to read about. I loved how she tells it like it is and didn't allow Heath to BS her. Heath had a hard exterior, but once you unwrapped him you got a real sweetie. Loved theses two and how they fit.

*~*~*~*
CHRISTMAS ANGEL
Opal Carew
Given one chance to break the curse which has held Angelique in its grip for two hundred years, she is faced with a heart-rending decision. Can she sacrifice Nick's happiness for her own freedom?

Our 3.5 Star Review

A curse turned her into a treetop Angel for more than 150 years. Now given the chance to escape her prison, but can she doom someone else to the same fate?

The story was ok I just needed more background and information from the characters. Even though I don't mind a fast paced usually but this one just a bit much since it didn't give allot of extra info added in. I also felt that her knowledge in bed was a bit unbelievable for a virgin.

*~*~*~*
A HIGHLANDER FOR THE HOLIDAYS
Dawn Halliday
In the wintery Highland mountains, Aileen and Niall unleash their forbidden passion. But Aileen is promised to another this Christmas, and the wicked Lowlander will stop at nothing to have her.

Our 4 Star Review

Aileen was 15 when she became married to a horrible man 10 years later and he's dead, but will her next arranged marriage be even worse? When Niall comes to take her to her brother to learn her fate feelings she didn't understand as a young girl come out and their attraction to each other is immense, but with their positions worlds apart can they ever truly be together? What will it take before they can truly find happiness?

Loved the journey these two took to get to each other throughout the journey and even though at the beginning no matter how much they wanted each other they both thought of their sense of duty until they realized how much was really at stake being apart. Aileen's strength to survive all she has made her a great character to root for to get their HEA.


*~*~*~*
ILLICIT CHRISTMAS
Yvette Hines
Even during the holidays a woman can have one reckless night that will change her life forever...especially when the man she was with is determined to prove they belong together.

Our 4 Star Review

Amber has finally left her cheating ex husband behind and is starting over in a new town, but on her way there she nearly runs over a man is the terrible weather. After helping him and feeling an intense attraction she decides to give into fantasy and offers him one night, her way. But after that night when they find themselves working together Chris decides to do everything he can to prove one night was never enough.

LOVED Chris he was such a sweetie and his persistence and fun ways of showing Amber he wanted to more were a blast to read about. I loved how he was willing to put himself out there to get what makes him feel alive and be happy again. Amber was stubborn and with good reason although there were times I just wanted to slap her and say "Get on with it already" in the end though they found their happiness and I loved it.

*~*~*~*
HER XMAS PRESENT
Christin Lovell
After being apart from each other for a year, Libby and Tyler realize their feelings for one another are more than platonic. Are they willing to risk years of friendship on a chance at love?

Our 5 Star Review

This one was my favorite of the bunch even though it was also the shortest.

After being best friends for years Tyler decides to go for it and tell her he loves her and hopes Libby feels the same.

Libby was insecure because of her weight but I loved that Tyler was able to show her the truth of her beauty, not in spite of but because of her generous curves. Loved seeing two best friends find their true feeling for each other.

*~*~*~*
ALL SHE WANTS FOR CHRISTMAS
Paige Tyler
Hayley Knowles has always fantasized about getting spanked by her husband, Conner. But how can she possibly ever get her husband to do it, especially since she’s too shy to tell him? This is the holiday season, though, so maybe Hayley might get exactly what she wants for Christmas!

Our 4 Star Review

Hayley wants to get spanked by her husband and when she lets that slip to her best friends they shock her by about their first times(getting spanked of course). Had a blast seeing each character tell their story and be open with their best friends. With each girls different personality you got to see their different reactions to how it happened and how it helped Hayley figure out how to bring the subject up to her husband.

Funny, kinky, quick read.

Cover Reveal Going The Distance by Christa Cervone

GoingTheDIstance_FullCover
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Synopsis
A murderer’s child…A foster child…A troubled teen…Gabriel ‘The Saint’ Vega has never had an easy life. Being shuffled from one foster home to another after his father murdered his mother, he found himself in and out of trouble with the law. Never giving a damn about himself, let alone anyone else, his life was spiraling out of control; fast. Until one man and one sport changed everything. Frankie Carbone taught Saint how to handle his anger and rejection; by fighting it out in the ring. On his way to stardom, Saint finds himself pushed into the spotlight and into the arms of more women than he can ever imagine; he’s completely content with one night stands and random sex. Then Salem Harris comes walking into his life and changes his game plan. Saint finds himself wanting Salem in all the ways that scare him. She is off limits; taken. But that doesn’t stop Saint from going after what he wants, and he wants her. Frankie showed Saint a new way of life with Boxing, but will Salem give him the one thing he's never known – love? Will Saint find himself fighting for the one thing he thinks he doesn't deserve or will Salem end up breaking his heart? Gabriel ‘The Saint’ Vega has had to fight for every good thing he's gotten in his life. Can he go the distance?
Meet Christa
Christa Author Photo
I was born and raised in Western Massachusetts and I'm a married mother of three who married her high school sweetheart, Frank. I don't really have too many hobbies. I like to watch my kids play sports. I do photography on the side (weddings, families, babies etc). I'm Minion & Adam Levine obsessed. I enjoy listening to all different types of music, Maroon 5 & P!nk being some of my favorites. Achievements -- I was on the Top 20 Erotica as well in being on the Movers and Shakers List on Amazon with "Broken." I'm currently working on her second novel titled "Going the Distance" which will be released Fall 2013 as well as a third novel titled "Saved."   Teaser - Prologue “In the case of the Commonwealth vs. Josue Vega. How do you plead?”
“Not guilty,” I hear our father say in his thick Spanish accent.
The cameras begin to flash and I hear reporters talking into their microphones, although I can’t understand what they are saying.
“Order in the court,” the judge speaks loudly as his gavel hits the desk; making my little brother, Jason, jump.
“It’s ok, Jase, we’re safe now,” I say, trying to comfort him. The two of us sit quietly in the second row of the hot, crowded courtroom as we watch our father plead ‘Not guilty’ to the murder of our mother. I’m just as scared as he is but I don’t want him to know that. I’m his older brother and he looks up to me, so I am trying to be brave.
“Your Honor, my client asks to be released on bail. He has two little boys he needs to care for while the trial is ongoing,” says the tall man who is standing next to our father.
I eyeball our father and notice how disheveled he looks. His hair is a mess and his clothes are the same ones he’d been wearing two nights ago. Jase and I were awoken this morning by a loud banging on our door. It was the police and they were looking for our father, but we hadn’t seen him in almost two days.
The last time I’d seen our father was the night he and our mother had gotten into an argument. They were yelling so loudly that they actually woke me from a sound sleep. I could hear our mother screaming, “How could you? He’s just a little boy…” and that was the last time I heard our mother’s voice.
“Your Honor, the Defendant is being charged with murder. I insist he be remanded to the county jail for the duration of his trial,” a voice says loudly from the other side of the courtroom.
The judge looks over at us and I can see the pity in his eyes.
“Mr. Vega, I have to agree with the District Attorney,” the judge’s voice is stern. “You’re standing trial for the murder of your wife. Bail is denied, and you’re to return to the county jail for the remainder of your trial. Bailiff, please remove the Defendant and have him taken into custody.”
I hear chatter erupt from the back of the courtroom. I turn around and see the reporters talking and the cameras flashing again. Spinning back around, I see a man in what looks like a police uniform handcuffing my father, then leading him out of the courtroom. Jase covers his face with his hands and begins to cry, “Why are they taking Papi?”
“It’s okay, Jase,” I whisper. “We have each other. Remember, we’re Blood Brothers.” Jase wipes his tears away with his hand and forces a smile.
“Blood Brothers” was something I’d come up with when we were out playing on the playground. It was one of the few times our father had actually offered to take us somewhere. We’d been cooped up in our small, dingy apartment all winter long, and it was finally a pleasant Spring day. Jase and I were running around playing tag. Our father had told us several times to stop running, but lo and behold, right after his final warning Jase fell and skinned both of his knees. Our father glared at us, just waiting to hear Jase cry. I knew what was coming next, he’d ‘give him something to cry about.’ That had been one of our father’s favorite lines; especially to Jase, who was extremely sensitive and cried over almost everything.
“Come on Jase, don’t cry,” I whispered to him, as I looked anxiously over my shoulder at our father. Jase’s body began to shake as he tried to hold his tears back and the blood from both his knees began to run down his shins. I glanced back at our father, who was now standing up, and I knew I had to act fast.
I reached into my back pocket and pulled out an old pocket knife that I had found lying on the sidewalk one day after school. I’d been keeping it a secret from Jase because I knew he’d want to play with it and would end up hurting himself.
“Hey Jase, look what I found a few days ago,” I said, showing him the knife.
His eyes grew wide, “Woah, where did you get that?” He said in awe.
“I found it a couple of days ago.”
“What are you two doing over there?” Our father said loudly, making Jase jump.
“Nothing Papi. I’m just tying Jase’s shoes,” I answered back.
“Hurry up! I’m ready to leave,” he snapped in response.
Opening up the blade as fast as I could, I took the tip and pressed it down onto the pad of my thumb.
“Gabriel,” Jase gasped. “What are you doing?”
“I wanna show you that you don’t have to cry every time you bleed,” I explained as blood began to pool up on my thumb. “See, I’m bleeding and I’m not crying.”
“It’s like we’re Blood Brothers,” Jase smiled at me as he blinked back his tears.
“Yes. Exactly, Jase, we’re Blood Brothers,” I smiled back at him.
I look over at Jase now and notice that he’s trying his hardest to hold back his tears. The two of us sit quietly as we watch our father being taken away. I finally feel safe. He and our mother are out of our lives forever; they can’t hurt us anymore. I’ve actually dreamed of this day; Jase and me, living with parents who actually love us. I saw it in a movie once; a little girl who didn’t have any parents was living in an orphanage and some rich guy adopted her. They lived happily ever after and I’m hoping that’s what’s going to happen to us.
“Gabriel? Jason?” I hear a kind voice say. “I’m Debbie and this is Dave, we’re going to take you to where you’re going to be staying.”
They’re dressed up in fancy suits and I wonder if they’re going to be our new parents. I can’t help but smile at the thought. They look so nice; they can give us a happy life. I know they can.
“Jase, shhhhh…stop crying,” I nudge him. “Look, I think this is our new Mom and Dad,” I whisper.
The last thing I want is for them to think Jase is a crybaby. He is, but I don’t want them changing their minds about us.
“Come on boys, we’re going to get you situated in your new homes,” Dave says.
I look up at him, confused, “Homes?”
“Yes, you and Jason are being placed in foster homes,” Debbie replies.
“You’re not our new Mom and Dad?” Jase asks sadly, through his tears.
“Oh no, Jason,” Debbie says sincerely as she crouches down in front of Jase. “We work for the Department of Social Services and we’ve been sent to bring you to your new homes.”
Debbie’s words make Jase cry even harder and I feel so sorry for him. In his five years of life, he’s never known a parent’s love. Sometimes at night, when we can’t fall asleep, I tell him about movies I’ve seen on television; how the families are so happy. The mom makes the family dinner, and the dad comes home from work and plays baseball with the kids. Jase always gets excited as I tell him about the movies. I promised him that someday it will be like that for us; that one day Mami’s medicine will eventually make her better. I didn’t mean it to be a lie.
When Mami was sick, she either slept all day or she was throwing up in the bathroom. Every morning, I heard her making a phone call for more medicine. About twenty minutes after she got off the phone, there was a knock at the door. It was usually a man dressed in dark, baggy clothes that brought her medicine. After that, she disappeared into the bathroom. Sometimes she came right out, while other times, she stayed in there for close to an hour.
Most mornings, it was me who got us ready for school. Some days, if we were lucky, there was actually food in the house; but only if Mami had felt well enough to go grocery shopping. Other days, we went to school hungry. Mrs. Gibbons, my teacher, occasionally brought fruit in for us. She slipped it to us in the hallway and always reminded us not to tell anyone.
Mrs. Gibbons was the nicest teacher in the school. She always asked about Jase and me and she made sure we ate lunch every day. Sometimes during class, I’d daydream that Mrs. Gibbons was our mom. But then the dismissal bell would ring, snapping me back into reality. I always hated the end of the day; that meant that school was over and it was time for us to go home.
Jase and I would take our time walking home from school because we never knew what we were walking into when we got there. Was our father going to be there? If he was home, what kind of mood would he be in? Would he and Mami be fighting? More often than not, they’d be fighting. Papi would be yelling at Mami because the house was a mess and dinner was not made; it was always for the same reason. “I work all fuckin’ day, the least you can do is clean this fuckin’ pigsty and make dinner,” he’d yell, raising his hand to her.
Depending on his mood after hitting our mother, sometimes he’d take his anger out on us next. The two of us would huddle in our room, trying to keep quiet, but he’d burst through the door yelling, “And you two! All you two ever do around here is make messes and eat! It’s about time you start helping out.”
Some nights we were lucky and he’d just leave after he yelled at us; while others, he’d physically pick us up, drag us into the living room, and make us start cleaning. “And get me a fuckin’ beer too, you little piece of shit!” He’d yell at me. “I don’t know why your mother even wanted you in the first place. You’re nothing but a waste of space and money.”
I’d encourage Jase to clean as quickly as he could so that we could go back into our room and wait for our father to pass out on the couch. This had become an almost daily occurrence for us.
“Gabriel and Jason, it’s time to go,” a voice says, snapping me out of my memory. “Gabriel, you’ll be coming with me and Jason will be going with Dave.”
“What do you mean I’m going with you and Jase is going with Dave?” My voice begins to tremble. Once I realize what’s happening, I begin to scream at the top of my lungs, “You’re not taking my brother from me. I’m all he has!”
Debbie tries to soothe and calm me down, but this only makes matters worse. I begin kicking and punching her as I yell in Spanish, “No me puedes quitar a mi hermano, puta estúpida!”
Before I know it, I’m taken away kicking and screaming. Dave grabs a hold of my feet while another man has my torso. Jase is crying hysterically and there is nothing I can do. I watch Debbie escort him out of the courtroom and realize that everything that I’ve ever known is gone.
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