A Thrilling Post-Apocalyptic Fantasy Novel ~ @LaurieKozlowski ‘s Review of “Dying Dreams” by @KatharineSadler

Liza Simmons has just learned she is a banshee who dreams of death. Problem is, the government knows what she is and they want her to work for them, touching dead bodies and dreaming of how the victims died. In 2070, in a world ravaged by climate change, the fae have few rights and Liza doesn’t have any other options than to do what the government wants. Agent Sloane Rice works for the supernatural protection agency, or SPA, and it’s his fault the government knows what Liza can do. He convinces her to sign on with SPA, as an agent, to avoid becoming a government science experiment. Liza works with Rice to find out why several mermaids have disappeared or died in recent weeks. During their investigation, they uncover a larger crime and a possible fae rebellion. They both know they need to focus on the job and ignore the mutual attraction growing between them, but trying to fight it may get them killed. Especially when the fae rebel behind all of the recent violence discovers that they are on his trail.

Dying Dreams Series Book One

Dying Dreams Series
Book One  * AMAZON *

❇~❇~REVIEW ~❇~❇

A Thrilling Post-Apocalyptic Fantasy Novel

I didn’t know what to expect when I read the blurb to “Dying Dreams”, but I knew this story was something completely different from what I usually read. As I began to dig into the novel…my assumption was an understatement!

In the beginning, I had a glimpse of what Liza’s life was like. It was an unusual opening, to see a dead mermaid on the beach. The dark and ominous setting pulled me in, as Liza met Sloane, a hunky agent working for SPA (a human government agency) and his partner, Folsom.
I liked how the author laid out ‘clues’ to build the fairy world in opposition to the human world. When Liza noticed her friend had hooves instead of legs, I had to smile. Her ‘friend’ didn’t turn out to be who she thought he was, and so then my mind began to try and solve this mystery of fae worlds, shapeshifter dominance, and human conspiracy.

By the last few chapters, I wanted to scream at the villain and go into the story and kick his ass for making Liza suffer. It was torture to read what the jerk did to her! However, this book had a great ending and left enough suspense to make me want to read the next book. So, the story ends in a way where the ties are all secured but leaves a tiny bit of mystery to drive me crazy!!

I fell in love with Sloane and Liza earned my respect. “Dying Dreams” is a HOT book that is deceptively sweet to begin with, and then BOOM. There were a few word and punctuation inconsistencies that I noticed in the very beginning; they made me pause and wonder. Overall, this book is a MUST READ for those who enjoy urban fantasy, heavy on the romance, with wonderful characters and a storyline that will make you sigh, cry, and (possibly) scream at the villain! Great book!

RATING: Four out of Five Stars * * * * 

****** ARC was given by the author in exchange for an honest review ******

📖 Like this review? Follow Laurie on Goodreads and “friend” her there. 

You can also follow this blog to get book reviews in your inbox and discover great new reads! Just click on the “Follow Book Escape Reviews via Email” button, follow the prompts, and you’re all set. Happy reading! 🙂 

❇~❇~ More Books by Katharine Sadler ~❇~❇

THE REAPERS SERIES

the_reaping-120x188

The Reaping Series, book ONE

on_a_white_horse-120x188

The Reaping Series, Book TWO

the_revolt-120x188

The Reaping Series, Book THREE

the_rift-120x188

The Reaping Series, Book FOUR

For more info on The Reapers series and Dying Dreams series, visit Katharine’s website.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: I have loved books for as long as I can remember. Growing up in rural Virginia, books were a way to visit other lives and other worlds. As an itty-bitty I adored The Little Match Girl and asked my father to read it to me again and again. As I got older, and I could read to myself, I discovered an entire magical world of books. I read whatever I could get my hands on and loved everything from the books of Jane Austen and the Bronte sisters, to the horror of Christopher Pike, to the magic of Anne McCaffrey and her dragons of Pern. I remember waking up on Saturday mornings, excited to go to the library and get new books. When I got home with my books, I’d stack them in the order I intended to read them (usually alphabetical by author). I started writing when I was ten. I wrote a poem on the school bus and, for a little while, thought I would be a poet. As I got older, though, I realized that my poetry was not very good, and I started writing stories. I think my first story involved a pirate and a damsel in distress. I wrote fantasy for a while, then tried to write something more literary, before switching back to my first love, fantasy. I earned a degree in English from the University of Virginia. I had worked retail jobs while I was in school and, after I graduated, I remained in the retail field because I felt it would allow me more time to write. I think I spent more time in the gym than I did writing, but I did manage to almost finish one book before putting it in the proverbial trunk and starting another. In 2001, I went backpacking around Europe for six weeks. I saw a lot of really amazing places and had a lot of fun, while learning that I am probably more of a hotel and suitcase than hostel and backpack kind of girl. When I got back from Europe, I moved to Colorado and lived the ski bum lifestyle for two seasons. I fell in love with the Rocky Mountains and with snow so deep I could disappear in it. I moved back to Virginia in 2003, and met my husband several months later. He has helped me to settle down and discover the focus and the discipline I needed to finish the book I’d been working on, what is now The Reaping. His belief in me and my abilities has never faltered, and he convinced me to self-publish my first book in February of 2014.

A Tantalizing #Romance Story – @LaurieKozlowski ‘s #bookreview of “Come Monday” (Wild Irish, Bk 1) by Mari Carr #Fiction #amreading

Please Note: Come Monday is an adult fiction book and this review is written ONLY for age 18+ — If you do not meet this minimum age requirement, please DO NOT PROCEED to read this post. Thanks. ~ Laurie ~

Monday’s child is fair of face… After the death of her mother, Keira Collins became a surrogate parent to her six younger brothers and sisters, her own dreams put on hold. Now, at twenty-seven, she’s finally pursuing a college degree. Between classes, working at the family pub and still tending to siblings, she’s no time for romance. So why is she spending all her rare free time fantasizing about hot Professor Wallace bending her over his desk? Will Wallace recognizes Keira’s unfulfilled desires, her habit of hiding her beauty, her obsessive need to command every aspect of her life. But Will has needs of his own—and they run far darker than Keira’s. As he initiates her into his lifestyle, offering sweet punishments and sweeter rewards, Will’s sexual authority slowly strips away some of her precious control. The one thing Keira’s not ready to relinquish… Come Monday was previously published. (bdsm, bondage, submission, alpha male, Wild Irish, teacher, professor) silhouette_of_a_sexy_voluptuous_girl_in_a_devil_costume_with_horns_tail_and_a_whip_0071-1012-0821-5526_SMU

—— Review ——-

A Tantalizing Romance Story

“Come Monday” is a ‘hot for teacher’ book, has an enjoyable storyline and is magnetizing. I was drawn into Keira and Will’s insatiable attraction for one another.

Kiera is an older student-late twenties-and Will drives her crazy with his maddening perfectionism in creative writing. Kiera loves her family in almost an obsessive way, always working to help her dad and watching over her siblings.

Will seemed tame enough, but handsome, in the beginning. I could tell Kiera wanted him and her lust built gradually. Then Will–out of nowhere–began to divulge his dark side. I was hooked, then!!

“Come Monday” was the first book I’ve read by Mari Carr, but it will not be the last. I enjoyed Will and Kiera’s romance and love the ending. I’m looking forward to reading more stories by Mari Carr.

Star Rating: Three out of Five Stars * * *

Book reviewed by Laurie Kozlowski — also posted to Goodreads, Barnes & Noble, and Amazon.

Like this review? Be sure to “friend” Laurie on Goodreads! 🙂 To view the entire Wild Irish series book covers and blurbs, visit Mari’s website by clicking HERE.

About The Author

1365301

www.maricarr.com

Writing a book was number one on Mari Carr’s bucket list and on her thirty-fourth birthday, she set out to see that goal achieved. Five years later, her computer is jammed full of stories — novels, novellas, short stories and dead-ends and six of her books have been published. High school librarian by day and mother of two busy teenagers, Mari Carr found time for writing by squeezing it into the hours between 3 a.m. and daybreak when her family is asleep and the house is quiet.

Review by @LaurieKozlowski of “Immortal Ever After” by Lynsay Sands #BookEscapeReviews #Amreading

A kiss doesn’t mean eternity . . .

Valerie Moyer doesn’t believe in vampires—until she is kidnapped by a fanged psychopath! After escaping her bloodthirsty captor, she’s through with creatures of the night. Until she finds herself under the protection of the darkly handsome Anders. Not only is she expected to accept that Anders is immortal, but also that she is the woman destined to be his life mate!

. . . Or does it?

Anders felt a connection to Valerie from the moment he cradled her bruised body in his arms. But before he claims her, he must destroy the vampire who almost stole her from him forever. His job would be easier if Valerie didn’t fight him every step of the way. Still, Anders loves a challenge, and the green-eyed beauty is worth fighting for!

15722934

Amazon * Barnes & Noble * Kobo

u12441554Review of Immortal Ever After u12441554

A Dark and Sexy Book

Being pulled into a Lynsay Sands book means I will always satisfy my craving for the paranormal world of vampires, dangerous villains, great suspense, and the right amount of “thriller.”

“Immortal Ever After” is one book of several from the Aragenau series. In this novel, I was pleased to meet the hunky and heroic Anders as he protected mortal Valerie. The best thing about Anders was his dominance in the story (alpha all the way), without having a “heavy-handed” attitude. It allowed for his intelligence and scars to show without being caught up in ego too much. He had a great sense of humor, also. Which I LOVE in an alpha hero!

Valerie had a tragic beginning in the story. It was honestly spooky to read, but the good part is that soon Anders and the good vamps soon step in to serve justice to the rouges. I love how Valerie and Leigh (a pregnant vamp) work together to get out of a dangerous situation toward the end. What Valerie does to the bad guy is…well, I won’t ruin it for you, but I’ll just say this–who knew duct tape and good bludgeon could be so hilarious?!

And there is the beauty of the Lynsay Sands story. Always well balanced with just the right amount of alpha in a hero and independent heroine. Usually comic relief at the strangest time possible. Then you leave a book wondering…when can I read the next one? Beautiful.

FIVE STARS * * * * *

Reviewed by Laurie Kozlowski — Also posted to Goodreads. Like this review? “Friend” Laurie on Goodreads! 🙂

****New Releases By Lynsay Sands****

61dqGlOoa3L knight_of_my_dreams_200 ToMarryAScottishLaird_200px

u12441554About The Authoru12441554

17059

LYNSAY SANDS is the nationally bestselling author who is known for her hysterical historicals as well as the popular Argeneau/Rogue Hunter vampire series. With her witty and charming personality, Sands describes books as, “Waking dreams or stories, tales to amuse, entertain and distract us from everyday life.” She’s been writing stories since grade school and considers herself incredibly lucky to be able to make a career out of it. Her hope is that readers can get away from their everyday stress through her stories, and if there are occasional uncontrollable fits of laughter, that’s just a big bonus. Visit her official website at www.lynsaysands.net.

 

 

Book Escape Review by @LaurieKozlowski of “Razed” by Shiloh Walker #amreading #fiction #romancebooks

A Story with Potential

The cover of “Razed” had perked my interest before flipping this novel over to read the blurb. Yes, I’m a reader who often decides on a novel based on its cover when I’m unsure the blurb completely sells the story to me.

So, I gave “Razed” a chance and bought it just before an after-lunch rush.

First, I want to point out the good things. The cover is delicious. Zach and Keelie were a sweet couple, and they both had their issues, which is what makes a great romance story. They could heat up the sheets–and boy, is that an understatement! If you’re looking for a hot read, you’ll love “Razed.”

Now, I’ll get to why “Razed” didn’t completely win me over. I wanted to love Keelie, the female lead character. I wanted to connect with Zach, the male lead. I WANTED this story to knock my socks off with unbeatable character chemistry and mesmerizing twists in the story…but it didn’t happen for me.
Also, just because this book wasn’t for me isn’t to say a reader who loves intense love scenes throughout a story and situational twists coming later in the story wouldn’t connect with this story.

“Razed” has potential and may suit readers who enjoy off-the-charts hot love scenes and primarily sexual chemistry between two main characters. The minor characters had zest, so I do hope this series continues to evolve.

RATING:   * * *      Three out of Five Stars 

Reviewed by Laurie Kozlowski — also posted to Goodreads. <<< If you enjoyed this review, I welcome you to “friend” me on Goodreads by following the arrowed link. 🙂

21417970

Barnes & Noble * Amazon * Kobo * iTunes

Tattoo artist Keelie Jessup can handle that someone else has claimed the man of her dreams. She’s just not pleased with her remaining options…

Keelie doesn’t believe in the “perfect man.” But the men who are worth the trouble are usually taken—like her business partner Zach Barnes. After a string of bad luck and the lost chance with Zach, Keelie decides that maybe flying solo—and living with suppressed desires—is the key to happiness.

As a photographer, Zane Barnes has an eye for the human form, and his eyes can’t get enough of Keelie’s curves. Unfortunately, Keelie is like most women—always fawning over his little brother, Zach. Zane is about ready to give up, but then a few stolen moments at his brother’s wedding have him thinking maybe there’s a chance there after all. Now he just has to prove that the perfect man does exist…for her.

Latest Books By Shiloh Walker:

FuriousFire72lg-200x300 Burn-for-Me-by-Shiloh-Walker225x340-198x300

 

~*~* ABOUT THE AUTHOR ~*~*

Shiloh Walker bio pic

Shiloh Walker is an award-winning writer…yes, really! She’s also a mom, a wife, a reader and she pretends to be an amateur photographer. She published her first book in 2003. Her newest series, Secrets and Shadows, launched with Deeper than Need, followed by Sweeter than Sin and Darker than Desire.

She writes romantic suspense and contemporary romance, and urban fantasy under the name J.C. Daniels.

 

 

Review by @LaurieKozlowski of EXCLUSIVELY YOURS by Shannon Stacey

 When Keri Daniels’s boss finds out she has previous carnal knowledge of reclusive bestselling author Joe Kowalski, she gives Keri a choice: get an interview or get a new job.

Joe’s never forgotten the first girl to break his heart, so he’s intrigued to hear Keri’s back in town—and looking for him. He proposes an outrageous plan—for every day she survives with his family on their annual camping trip, Keri can ask one question.

The chemistry between Joe and Keri is as potent as the bug spray, but Joe’s sister is out to avenge his broken heart, and Keri hasn’t ridden an ATV since she was ten. Who knew a little blackmail, a whole lot of family and some sizzling romantic interludes could make Keri reconsider the old dream of Keri & Joe 2gether 4ever?

 9780373776788_p0_v1_s600

* Barnes&Noble * Amazon *

Five Stars * * * * *

Romantic, Family-Centered, Page-Turner: A New Favorite Series!
The Kowalski series is quickly moving up on my reading list as this book was great! Joe, a bestselling thriller author, wears black boxer briefs, has a big heart for his family, and has overcome alcoholism to make a very decent living doing what he loves to do – writing. Keri, a magazine journalist in the entertainment industry, has one mission from her boss: get the dirt on Joe Kowalski in an interview, or lose her job.
The main issue for Joe is knowing if he can trust his ex-high-school sweetheart, after all the years apart. He was also betrayed by another girlfriend he trusted, just after he and Kari’s breakup.
For Keri, she’s unwilling to sacrifice a juicy offer for job security. But instead of Joe being at her mercy, the tables turn when he sets the rules for the trip, allowing her one question a day—if she survives the Kowalski family for a week.
This story moved quickly for me because I felt like I was right in the story, myself. I watched as Joe and Keri grew closer, through their doubts and fears. The children in this big family were not those of Joe and Keri, but were nieces and nephews…and they were silly and adorable. The Kowalski brothers’ bond was undeniable and endearing. Their roughhousing and teasing were hilarious. Ma and Dad of the Kowalski’s were another great couple of characters. Ma K was no-nonsense and loving while Dad K was loud, direct, and boisterous.
The side stories will capture your heart, too. Kevin, a Kowalski brother who is formerly Boston PD, has and interesting and dark past. I love how he is the loner of the group. Also, Terry (Kowalski) Porter and Evan have a very heart-wrenching story that will keep you optimistic concerning their love story. Lastly, what happens between Mike and Lisa may cause your eyes to mist.
Be prepared for a superb story, full of love, joy, passion, lust, and a great beginning to a series that will have you hooked from the start!

Reviewed by Laurie Kozlowski — also posted to Goodreads and Barnes and Noble

Like this review? Why not connect with Laurie on Goodreads, too?

~*~*~* Newest Releases By Shannon Stacey *~*~*~

noplacetohide-200x316

* Barnes&Noble * Amazon * iTunes *

Jack Donovan went through hell and back to save Isabelle once. Now she’s back in his life, hunted by an assassin so elusive some claim he’s only an urban legend. More than just a gun for hire, the killer is driven by a pathological need to take down his targets and, when Isabelle escapes the bullet meant for her, Jack knows he’ll strike again. The only way to keep her alive is to keep her close, and Jack’s about to learn what hell really is.

In the year since Jack rescued her from a guerrilla compound and then walked away, Isabelle Arceneau has begun to put her life back on track. Now somebody wants her dead and Jack is once again her only hope for survival. As the Devlin Group races to uncover the killer’s identity and Jack and Isabelle go on the run in a desperate bid to keep her alive, she knows she can trust him with her life, but never again with her heart.

No Place To Hide is also available in paperback from Amazon.

herholidayman-200x316

* Barnes&Noble * Amazon * iTunes

Christina Forrester is starting over. After a financial scandal sent her ex-husband to prison, she’s left raising her young son without any of the comforts of their old life. Budgets, coupons, lawn care—you name it, she’s learning to do it all on her own. Well, almost on her own—she’d be lost without Gail Broughton, the kind widow across the street. But when Gail’s son comes home, Christina’s vow to never trust a man again is put to the test.

Will Broughton left town because he was tired of being “that poor man” who lost his wife and unborn child in a tragic accident. But years have passed and, with his dad gone and his mom alone, it’s time to go home. Only his mother’s not alone. She’s taken Christina under her wing, and the beautiful and determined single mother awakens something in Will he thought was buried forever.

As Will and Christina are forced to spend more time together, feelings that are more than neighborly grow between them. And with Christmas coming and a child filling both houses with holiday cheer, it becomes nearly impossible not to embrace the joy—and the love—in their lives.

~*~*~ About The Author ~*~*~

lookup_cropped200

New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author Shannon Stacey lives with her husband and two sons in New England, where her two favorite activities are writing stories of happily ever after and riding her four-wheeler. From May to November, the Stacey family spends their weekends on their ATVs, making loads of muddy laundry to keep Shannon busy when she’s not at her computer. She prefers writing to laundry, however, and considers herself lucky she got to be an author when she grew up.

You can contact Shannon through her website, where she maintains an almost daily blog, or visit her on Twitter, her Facebook page, or email her at shannon@shannonstacey.com.