Book Review: Sink or Swim (Shore Leave) by Annabeth Albert

Sink or Swim is the second book in the Shore Leave series by Annabeth Albert. You do not need to read the series in order to fully enjoy each read. 

Navy chief Calder Euler loves to win big. His latest score? A remote mountain cabin. Checking it out is supposed to be a quick trip, but Calder’s luck abruptly turns when a freak injury and a freakier snowstorm leave him stranded. Oh, and the cabin isn’t empty. A silver fox caring for two young girls claims that the property is his, but Calder’s paperwork says otherwise. Felix Sigurd is on a losing streak, and his ex-husband risking the cabin in a reckless bet is only the latest in a series of misfortunes. He’ll tolerate the handsome stranger for a couple nights--even care for his injuries—but that’s it. Calder doesn’t know a damn thing about kids, but making pancakes for Felix’s girls is a surprising delight. Trapped in the cabin, the four of them slip easily into the rhythms of a family. But when the ice melts, they’ll have to decide if a future together is in the cards.

Sink or Swim is another romance with complex characters that grow in the process of unexpectedly finding love from Albert. I thought Calder and Felix each had their hang up, but were great guys from the beginning, and I enjoyed being along for the ride as they each made self realizations about who they were and what they wanted, and how to get there. I really loved Felix's nieces, and thought the quirky comments, personalities, and worries were very realistic. I loved the open and honest discussions between Calder and Felix, in and out of the bedroom,  and that the amount of care and concern for each other and the bigger picture with the girls was always considered and often reevaluated to stay on top of issues and concerns. As always, I loved the secondary characters and how the author makes the support systems of friends and family an important part of the story. I would love to see more from many of the secondary characters and get a kick out of them in every book from Albert. I really enjoyed this read and think other fans of the author will as well. 

Sink or Swim is an emotional and rewarding romance. 

Book Review: Sailor Proof by Annabeth Albert

Sailor Proof by Annabeth Albert is a contemporary romance, and the start of a new series. It’s petty, but Naval Chief Derrick Fox wishes he could exact a little revenge on his ex by showing off a rebound fling. His submarine is due to return to its Bremerton, Washington, home base soon and Derrick knows all too well there won't be anyone waiting with a big, showy welcome. Enter one ill-advised plan. Arthur Euler is the guy you go to in a pinch—he's excellent at out-of-the-box solutions. It's what the genius music-slash-computer nerd is known for. So when he finds out Derrick needs a favor, he’s happy to help. He can muster the sort of welcome a Naval Chief deserves, no problem at all. Except it is a problem. A very big problem. When Arthur’s homecoming welcome is a little too convincing, when a video of their gangplank smooch goes enormously viral, they're caught between a dock and a hard place. Neither of them ever expected a temporary fake relationship to look—or feel—so real. And Arthur certainly never considered he'd be fighting for a very much not-fake forever with a military man.

Sailor Proof is a contemporary romance that uses some of my favorite tropes to great effect. The friend's sibling romance, the kind of friends to lovers, fake romance turned real, and my favorite twist- there's only one bed! Derrick and Arthur were each great characters with their own personal issues to work out. I empathized with Arthur as he struggled with family dynamics and his perceptions of the past and his place in the present. I felt for Derrick as he noticed Arthur's discomfort and his gifts even as he had to come understand some of those dynamics and what he wanted from life at the same time. Seeing them both struggle and then find their way hit just the spot I needed it to.  I absolutely love Arthur and Derrick together, they hit the perfect blend of communication, chemistry, and charm that had me rooting for them right from the beginning. 

Sailor Proof is another great read from this author. I cannot wait to see what they write next.

Book Review: The Tracker (The Dregs) by Leslie Georgeson

The Tracker is the first book in the eight book (not all yet available)  Dregs series by Leslie Georgeson.  I’ve done despicable things. My soul is damaged. My body impaired. That’s what happens when you are a soldier for The Company. I was discharged a year ago. Now I am a dreg. Worthless. With a bounty on my head. I’ve become a creature of the night, hiding in an underground maze during the day. Because I’m not ready to die yet. She comes to me one night, needing my help to find her sister. The moment I see her, I want her. Her goodness calls to me, makes me yearn for the impossible. She brings life back to the deadness inside me. I’m no good for her. I will do nothing but corrupt her. But I’m a callous bastard. I can’t resist her. I try not to care for her, but somehow she slips under my skin. She makes me weak. And there is only one thing in this world I am afraid of. Weakness. I’ll never be good enough for her, so I have to finish this job and send her on her way. Before she destroys me.

The Tracker is a story that manages to get a lot of world building, character development, and other series groundwork laid down without having it completely overtake the action and romance of the story. I like that Jessica is a fully developed character with a mind and drives of her own. She is willing to do anything to save her sister, and is fiercely loyal to the dregs once they have gotten to know each other. Tracker and his teammates have serious issues to overcome, and I like that they own those issues and do not pretend to be perfect. I found Tracker to be well written and consistent with his past and position- and really enjoyed reading about the connections between the dregs.I was left wanting to see how it turns out for all of them, and want them all to find a happy ending. I will admit that there were a couple things that dragged a bit for me, but I think they were all necessary to set up for the conclusion of this book and the set ups for the future volumes.

The Tracker is a good start to a series with suspense, romance, and plenty of twists and turns. I have already downloaded the second book and added it to my 'to read' list.

Early Book Review: Blind Date Bet by Nicole Flockton

Blind Date Bet is the first book in a new romance series by Nicole Flockton. It is currently scheduled for release on January 22 2019.

Never say never… After loving and losing a soldier once, Isabella Knowles made a vow: No more military men. She’s rebuilt her life and has a classroom full of fifth graders to love, which is more than enough even though her father doesn’t agree. When he sets her up on a blind date, she only goes to humor him — never dreaming that the man she meets will tempt her to break her one rule. In theory, Ethan Masters is not opposed to the wife, kids and house with a white picket fence. But he loves his career as a K-9 handler in the Air Force, and a dream promotion dangles before him like dog tags. While contemplating his future, he accepts a drunken bet for a blind date, never dreaming that the captivating woman fits perfectly into his ideal, all-American dream. Only one problem. She’s gun-shy about all things military. Can Ethan prove to Isabella love is worth the risk?

Blind Date Bet started off strong, I liked the initial set up and thought I was really going to love the story and the characters. I did like Isabella, but I never really felt like I got into her head. As things were revealed I could understand her reservations, but I just never connected with her. Unfortunately the same holds true for Ethan and most of the secondary characters. Oddly enough the one character I want to know more about and the one scene I would have like to have seen never really has a presence in the story. As for the relationship between Ethan and Izzy, moments of it fit and worked, and others felt either too easy or that one or both of them gave up too easy. Adding in the surprise at the end just felt unnecessary and a little cheap. Maybe I was just not in the mood for this writing style or story, but it fell flat for me and too close to telling me rather than showing me the depths of the story. There was just so much promise here and some really good moment,but I was disappointed that it did not like up to the expectations I had for it.

Blind Date Bet is a book I really wanted to like, and had many of the element that I adore. However, I never really connected with the characters or their story. It just did not work for me.

Book Review: The Undercover Billionaire (Tate Brothers) by Jackie Ashenden

The Undercover Billionaire is the third book in the Tate Brothers series by Jackie Ashenden. I have not read any of the previous books. While those that have will have a better understanding of some of the characters and family dynamics, newcomers will be about to understand the couple focused on in the story.

 

Navy SEAL Wolf Tate is on a mission of vengeance. He’s willing to do whatever it takes to infiltrate the lair of his arms-dealing enemy—and rescue the mother he never knew. To do this, he’ll need more than his father’s fortunes or his brothers-in-arms. He must find a way to kidnap his enemy’s daughter for leverage. There’s just one problem: She is also one of Wolf’s closest friends—and the only person that ever really listened. For years, Olivia de Santis has been waiting for Wolf to take her in his arms and make her dreams come true. But she never imagined that he’d sneak into her bedroom one night, or take her as his hostage. Olivia knows she should resist him—and stay loyal to her own family. But how can she deny the burning justice of Wolf’s mission, and the blazing desire in his eyes—even if giving into the heat of the moment can put her in grave danger? 

The Undercover Billionaire is a book with a decent set up, but one that fell flat for me. Wolf has been told for years that he is just muscle, and despite knowing how cruel and manipulative his father and de Santis can be- he thinks he is somehow not being used by either. Olivia is sweet, and while smart with computers and books seems to be completely lacking common sense and self preservation. She is twenty eight, never been kissed and never suspecting that her father is a weapon dealing nightmare willing to force her to marry a man that she does not want- but she is almost willing to do so. I really wanted her to have a little backbone and stand up for herself. She does, for about three seconds, but is way too willing to trust her father and Wolf way more than a person should in her circumstances. Wolf is just stubborn and while at times caring, other times he is just as willfully blind as Olivia. The sex is steamy, but the characters were too lost in their own versions of the world for me to like or care about them. 

The Undercover Billionaire left me disappointed. If you are reading for steam, then you got that here. If you are reading for characters and love, not so much.

Book Review: Rescuing Rayne (Delta Force Heroes) by Susan Stoker

Rescuing Rayne is the first book in the Delta Force Heroes series by Susan Stoker. While it is connected to her previous series, it stands up wonderfully on its own.  As a flight attendant, Rayne Jackson is used to cancellations, but she never dreamed her latest would lead to a whirlwind tour of London with a handsome stranger, or a life-altering night in his bed. One evening is all the enigmatic man can give her, and Rayne greedily takes it, despite suspecting it will never be enough.  Heading home after another extreme mission, Keane "Ghost" Bryson hadn't planned to seduce someone during his layover, but Rayne is too sweet to resist. Being a Delta Force member means lying to protect his identity, which is unfortunate, considering Rayne seems made for Ghost, right down to the tattoo on her back. For the first time in his life, regret fills him as he slips away the following morning. Both are shocked when, months later, they meet again—under the worst possible circumstances. Seems fate has given them a second chance…if they can survive the terrorist situation they're in. If Rayne can forgive Ghost his lies. And if Ghost can trust Rayne to be strong enough to endure the secrets and uncertainty that come with loving a Delta Force soldier. 

Rescuing Rayne is a contemporary romance with plenty of action and the realities of healing after being in bad situations. I liked Rayne's character, she is sweet and strong at the same time. While she looks for the good she is more than capable to dealing with things if they go wrong, but does not take unnecessary risks- most of the time. A one night stand with Ghost her exception. When bad things do happen, she does what she needs to in order to survive. Keane, or Ghost, had to lie about his real name when he met Rayne, but when a horrible twist of fate trows them together again he wonders if she can forgive the lies, and deal with the missing information that is bound to happen in a relationship with a Delta Force member. I liked how they talked through the issues, and how hard Ghost worked to earn her trust- and even though he made mistakes was as honest as he could be about everything. The secondary characters and team mentality was a nice part of the book, and I loved seeing how the guys banded together to help each other- and anyone that a member of their team cared about. 

Rescuing Rayne is a solid suspenseful romance, with secondary characters that had me wondering about how they would find their own happy ending. While the book did not wow me, I am looking forward to reading more. 

Book Review: Just the Thing (The Donnigans) by Marie Harte

Just the Thing is the second book in The Donnigans series by Marie Harte. The first book was A Sure Thing, and while the characters overlap and those that are following the series will have more insight into them, newcomers can also enjoy the read, although it is likely to make you want to go back and see what you missed.

Gavin Donnigan left the Marine Corps a shell of a man, hounded by guilt for deaths he couldn't prevent. But teaching a self-defense class at the local gym brings some stability to his life―along with a gorgeous leggy woman who won't give him the time of day. Zoe York lost her twin sister to a freak car accident a few months ago. She's been struggling to bury her grief, but it isn't until she signs up for a self-defense class with its distracting instructor that she begins to come out of her shell again. With the memory of her sister telling her to live a little, Zoe decides a fling with buns-of-steel Gavin Donnigan might be just the thing. Soon they're sparring both in and out of the gym. And for the first time in a long time, each is looking forward to tomorrow.

Just the Thing is another book from Harte that features characters with real problems, and real support systems. Gavin is dealing with his issues, and moving forward with the help of family, hard work, and therapy. Zoe is doing her best to move on from her own family tragedy while still having a challenging career. I love the interaction between Zoe and Gavin, they tease and bicker in a way I find real as well as entertaining./ At the same time, I love the relationship between Gavin and his family. I found the combination of teasing and support to be so entertaining and oddly charming. Rather like the way my brother and I tease each other but would do anything for each other. I love the honesty and real feel of the characters. They are written so well that I really came to care about the characters and felt like I could see them in the real world. I honestly want to meet the characters from the Donnigan and related series- and love the fact that they are overlapping more and more. 

Just the Thing is another great book from Harte. I am currently gathering all the books she has published, and reading more from her. My only disappointment it that I somehow missed the Netgalley offering of one book, and did not find this author until recently. I will be searching library collections and Amazon to make sure I get my hands on them all.

Book Review: The Legend (Sons of Texas) by Donna Grant

The Legend by Donna Grant is part of the Sons of Texas series. This is the only book from the series I have read, and I felt like I was missing  big parts of character development and the larger story arch. The main characters had a history, which I suspect was part of the previous books. While I could still enjoy the read, I think those that have read the series in order will get much more out of it than those of us that read one alone.

Callie Reed doesn’t need a man to protect her. An expert sharpshooter and renegade hacker, this Texas-born spitfire’s got the skills and the courage to stand up to any danger, no matter how deadly. But when she becomes the target of a shadowy organization known as the Saints, Callie is forced to team up with the one man she can’t outshoot: the gorgeous, and infuriating, Lone Star legend named Wyatt Loughman. A Delta Force Colonel with a rock-hard body and stone-cold heart, Wyatt has been teasing and tormenting Callie since they were playmates on his family’s ranch. Of course, he’s wildly attracted to the fiery, strong-willed Callie. But he’s always hidden his feelings behind a wall of Texas tough and military cool, even as he’s burning up with desire. Can Wyatt save Callie’s life—without putting her love in the line of fire?

The Legend is a contemporary suspense romance. I liked the characters, Callie is a strong woman that has been through a lot but still struggles to stay in a position to be in the right. Wyatt is a strong alpha male trying to stay unattached or connected to others, for their own good. They were a couple briefly, before Wyatt left for the military and the dangerous work it involves. The family dynamics with Wyatt, his brothers, and their father is important to the series and so is the history of Callie and her family. Most of this background information is clear in the story, but it is obvious that those returning to the story from previous books are at an advantage. The book also changes viewpoints, including Wyatt's brothers and and other important players in the larger story line. It was a little too much going on to make me happy, mainly because I felt like I was joining the story halfway through. However, I did enjoy the characters and the way they eventually worked things out. There was plenty of action, danger, and intrigue to keep me on my toes, as I waited for the happy ending.  

The Legend is a good book, but there is so much going on with the larger story arches and other characters that were clearly related to the other books in the series that I often felt a bit adrift. The characters and story were solid, but it is clearly a series that needs to be read as a whole, in order. 

Book Review: Her Dark Half (X-Ops) by Paige Tyler

Her Dark Half is the seventh book in the X-Ops series by Paige Tyler. While there are parts of the story that you can only fully enjoy if you know the bigger picture, this romance can be enjoyed on its own as well. 

Trevor Maxwell is a coyote shifter with an attitude, a covert operator, and trusts no one, especially his devastatingly beautiful new partner. Alina Bosch is former CIA, the newest operative on the covert team, and hired to spy on her partner. They are teamed up to catch a killer. But when the mission becomes much more dangerous than they expected, they're going to have to ignore the attraction between them and learn how to trust one another to come out on the other side. 

Her Dark Half does a good just of looking at trust issues and partners. Trevor and Alina both have good reasons not to trust easily, and I think that part of the story, and their developing relationship is well done. However, somehow I just never really connected with either of them, and was more interested in the large corruption plot and the other relationships that were touched on in the story (Tanner's in particular). I did like that many of my questions about who did what were answered, and while some twists and turns were exceptional, I felt like others were just too easy. I think I might be done with this series, but I will admit wanting to know the outcome of some of the pairing I know will happen, but have not yet.

Her Dark Half is a good continuation to the larger story arch, which I was glad to see some serious movement on. However, I was not as engaged with the characters as I have been in previous books, and this is by no means the end of the series.I felt like it might have closed the book on part of the story, but there is a whole new angle for the series to continue on with. 

Book Review: Falling Hard (Colorado High Country) by Pamela Clare

Falling Hard is the third Colorado High Country book by Pamela Clare. I have not read the previous books in the series, and while I can see where some of the characters must cross over from book to book, I was able to fully enjoy this read without having read the other books. 

Ellie Meeks promised her pilot husband that if anything happened to him, she would live her life to the fullest. Three years later, she is still alone, raising the twins he never met. She has no interest in dating or meeting men—until one snowy night when a stranger helps her get her sick kids safely home. That stranger turns out to be a former Army Ranger and a member of the elite Rocky Mountain Search & Rescue Team.  Jesse Moretti came to Colorado to get Iraq out of his head, using the adrenaline of extreme sports and high-risk mountain rescues to keep his mind off the past. But getting involved with Ellie might be the riskiest thing he’s ever done. It’s not just their explosive chemistry. There’s something about Ellie that gets inside him, opening him to feelings he’s tried hard to ignore. Ellie feels alive in Jesse’s arms and happier than she ever thought she’d feel again. But their relationship comes at a price for him, and soon Ellie sees that she must help Jesse fight the demons of his past to protect the love of a lifetime—and save the heart of a hero.

Falling Hard is a romance that deals with loss, risk, grief, and moving on. Ellie lost her husband before her twins were even born. She has struggled but thankfully has the support of family. She is smart, compassionate, and resilient. Jesse is still reeling from the loss and horror that he faced as an Army Ranger. Now working in a high risk job and volunteering on a rescue team he is doing everything he can to save others. Neither is looking for any kind of relationship, and yet after a chance meeting they cannot seem to stay away from each other. I enjoyed the slow growth of their relationship, and how Jesse is aware of his faults and emotional scars. I think the honest of both characters, and the struggles they have with emotions and connecting make to book poignant and relatable to readers. I loved that the act of moving on was not about forgetting, but in honoring those we've lost and living life as best we can.

Falling Hard is a solid romance, with complex characters and emotion. If you enjoy realistic characters and struggles combined with a slow-burn romance, then you are going to enjoy this read.

Early Book Review: The Farther He Runs (Kick) by Lynda Aicher

The Farther He Runs is the third book in the Kick series by Lynda Aicher. It is currently scheduled for release on December 6 2016. I have not read the other books in the series, but I caught up on the two main players quickly and do not feel like I lost much because of the learning curve.

After years away from home, Tanner Dorsey is back and sorting through feelings that have him in a stranglehold. The hardened Marine will do anything for a fallen comrade, so when an accident leaves Finn Kelley fighting for his life, Tanner’s eager to be there for him. In fact, Tanner’s ready and willing to do anything Finn asks—especially if it means finally acting on the sexual tension that’s always kept him craving more. Finn senses it too—when he brushes against Tanner’s stubbled jaw, when he inhales the scent of the T-shirt that clings to Tanner’s body like a second skin. Now that he’s more vulnerable than ever, Finn knows the time is right to take control, even if it means risking the heart and soul of their friendship. The bond they share goes beyond desire; it’s a bond of brotherhood, forged under conditions few could imagine. But once they cross that line, there will be no more secrets. No more boundaries. And no turning back.

The Farther He Runs is a story that is rich in character development, emotion, and plenty of steamy moments. I liked that we get to see the intensity of the attraction and emotion shared by Tanner and Finn. They are both battle scarred, emotionally, mentally, and physically, and they have huge battles to face individually and together. I also liked that when the pair understand each other, and their wounds, so well that they often understand what the other needs without words but still communicate more than most couples in romance novels. While I was not expecting the amount of BSDM the book included (my fault for not reading up on the series before reading) but it was dealt with perfectly. The explanation of the hows and whys, and the strength of the submissive and the emotions and desires that often come with it all was well done. So often authors toss in moments of bondage, pain, or humiliation without touching on the importance of consent, care, and boundaries. Again, with military characters many authors do not cover the mixed emotions and wounds that many men that had or are serving our country face, it is handled extremely well and accurately. You can tell that the author has a full understanding of the subjects and took the time to write it correctly and honestly. Even though this is not my typical read, I very much respect and appreciate the authors writing and handling of the multiple aspects of the story.

The Farther He Runs was more than expected. I was ready for an LBGQT romance, but I was not expecting the level of BSDM that was included. This was my fault for not reading the full description. However the handling of the aspects of military, BSDM, and recovery included in the story are all extremely well done and has earned my respect and admiration for the author. 

Book Review: Dare You To Run (Unbroken Heroes) by Dawn Ryder

Dare You To Run is the second book in the Unbroken Heroes series by Dawn Ryder. I did not read the first book in the series, Dangerous to Know, but I felt like each book can be read on its own and enjoyed. There is a underlying story arch, but I caught up to that pretty quickly.

For Vitus Hale, only one mission has ever gone wrong. All he had to do was rescue a beautiful woman from her kidnappers. But falling hard into bed—and into love—with the stunning innocent was not part of the game plan, and when she leaves him in the dust, Vitus has nothing but a blemished record and a hardened heart. Now, after three long years, his beauty has finally come back into his life—and this time, failure is not an option. Damascus Ryland knew from their first steamy embrace that stoic warrior Vitus Hale is the only man for her, but when her power-hungry Congressman father offered her an ultimatum—sever ties with Vitus, or he dies—Damascus knew she had to walk away to save the man she loved. But now, three years later, a new threat is closing in on her—and tossing Vitus right back into her life. Damascus needs to keep her love for him locked in her heart if she is to keep him safe, but the old flame that burned between them is still as vibrant and hot as ever. Now, Damascus and Vitus must risk it all to find their freedom, and embrace their love.

Dare You To Run is a high action romance that start off with our main players already well aquatinted. The back story is covered well, as are the motives and emotions of both Vitus and Damascus. The dangerous side of politics and power is very clear, and none of the characters are easily defined or put into a box. Even the bad guys think they are doing things for a good reason, although they most often do not agree with it. The interplay between Damascus and Vitus is very well done. The tension between them is palpable, even when they do not want to let go and let each other in. I think all the intrigue; hiding, rescuing, fighting, and so on is well done- but there were moments when I felt like there was just too much Ryder wanter to cover in the book. There is not much that could be left out and still have the needed ground work to answer all the hows and whys raised by the book, so maybe it was just me not being in the mood for more intrigue after reading too many romantic suspense novels too close together.

Dare You To Run is a entertaining read, but it did not grab me as much as her Rock Band series. It was still a good read, but I was somehow hoping for even better. 

Book Review: Gray Moon Rising by S.M. Reine (Seasons of the Moon)

Gray Moon Rising by S.M. Reine is the fourth, and final, book in the Seasons of the Moon series. Although, it is important to note that the author does continue the story of this world (and Rylie) in a other series and stand alone books. 

It’s been almost a year since Rylie Gresham was bitten by a werewolf on Gray Mountain. Now something is beckoning her back to the place she was attacked, along with every other werewolf in the world. But they aren’t the only ones heeding the call. A group of hunters notices them gathering and sees it as their chance to wipe out the entire species. Seth is about to graduate high school when he learns of the final hunt. He secretly plans to save Rylie and his werewolf brother even though he has to play along with the hunters to do it. But Rylie doesn’t want to be saved. She’s already decided to solve her problems with a silver bullet if answers aren’t waiting on Gray Mountain. One way or another, everything is about to end—whether it means Rylie’s liberation or the end of her life.

Gray Moon Rising is a needed conclusion to the story, and offers a significant about of character development for Rylie  and her closest friends. I like that she grew up and took charge, and that the action made the larger story arc move in an interesting direction. I liked that most characters, new and old, were neither all good or bad. Even some of the characters that could have initially have been pegged as an good or bad guy fell somewhere in the middle, or a good person that thinks they are doing the right thing but ignoring how it effects others. Some of the secondary characters had a good amount of personal growth as well. I think that fans of the series will need to read the book, just to finish off this story arc. Many will be disappointed with the number of new questions raised, and the lack of closure with Rylie's story. However, it did offer enough of a wrap up that I feel like I can skip some of the Cain Chronicles, which promise a significant about of world building and changes, also promises to contain a love triangle which I have no interest in following.

Gray Moon Rising is a good conclusion to this quartet, however there are still questions left unanswered. The Cain Chronicles follows it and covers more of Rylie's story, but I am unsure if I want to read it. There are so many other sub series by the author that I want to explore first.

Early Book Review: Her Rogue Alpha (X-Ops #5) by Paige Tyler

Her Rogue Alpha is the fifth book in the X-Ops series by Paige Tyler.  It is currently scheduled for release on September 6 2016. I highly recommend having read the previous books before diving into this one, particularly Her Fierce Warrior, because the main characters and their story has already begun. I think readers could catch on, but will lose a important understanding of how the characters got to where they are, and the larger story arc all comes together.

Former Special Forces Lieutenant Jayson Harmon can't believe that his war scars don't matter to beautiful feline shifter Layla Halliwell. Why would she saddle herself with a broken man? However, Layla knows that Jayson is a hero to the core, and that only she can heal his wounded soul. So when Jayson is deployed on another deadly mission, no way is Layla staying behind.

Her Rogue Alpha is a book that requires some prior reading, but is worth following the series. More than just a romance between Jayson and Layla, this is also about both of them coming to terms with their own limitations, abilities, and preconceptions. Jayson is still recovering from series injuries, and is likely never to be as strong or agile as he once was. Layla loves him for who he is, not who he was, since they met after the injuries. It is only after Jayson takes a crazy risk and is sent on a mission that (of course) is more dangerous and complicated than anyone expected. In the process of completing the mission everyone involved needs to come to terms with who they are and the feelings they have for others. Secondary stories, like the search for a cat burglar that manages to steal more than she bargains for from a major player and the continued experiments and politics surrounding hybrids and shifters. I do not recommend the read to newcomers to this series, but think that those that have been following this world since the first book, Her Perfect Mate, or even joined the craze a bit later, with get much enjoyment from the read.

Her Rogue Alpha is a solid addition to this series, and adds much to the larger story arc and hints at who might hold the leading roles in upcoming books. Fans of the author, and this series in particular, will not want to miss it.

Terry Spear’s Spotlight Tour for SEAL Wolf Hunting

Did you see my 4 star review of SEAL Wolf Hunting? 

Well, here is some more information with an excerpt and giveaway!

Title: SEAL Wolf Hunting

Author: Terry Spear

Series: Heart of the Wolf, #16

Pubdate: July 7^th, 2015

ISBN: 9781402293825

Paul Cunningham has eluded many traps in his long career as a Navy SEAL, but there’s no way out of this one. On a rare visit home, he gets “volunteered” for a local charity bachelor auction, and the community is counting on him. Then he discovers that the sexy she-wolf with the winning ticket is Lori Greypaw—the one woman he could never resist. And she has plans for Paul that go way beyond a simple date. For the first time in his bachelor life, this alpha wolf SEAL is going to have to prove his worth…

USA Today bestselling author Terry Spear has written over fifty paranormal and medieval Highland historical romances. In 2008 Heart of the Wolf was named a Publishers Weekly Best Book of the Year. A retired officer of the U.S. Army Reserves, Terry also creates award-winning teddy bears that have found homes all over the world and is raising two Havanese puppies. She lives in Crawford, Texas.

Buy Links:

Amazon: http://amzn.to/1cH0BAK

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Meet the Bachelors of Cottage Grove

Full Name: Allan Rappaport

Occupation: SEAL and now Special Undercover Operative

Height: 6 ft

Hair Color: Dark brown hair

Eye Color: Green

Age: 30

Wolf: Gray

Originally from: Northern Montana

Where is your go-to spot in Cottage Grove to relax and unwind? I love diving—for treasure, lost items. It’s another world under the water. It’s like a new, unexplored wilderness. Now, if I could just find a she-wolf who loved diving as much as I do, that would be even more perfect.

An Excerpt:

Allan was next up, and the bidding was going strong as he got into the fun of the auction, flexing his muscles and smiling brightly.

“Way to go, SEAL!” Lori and Rose shouted.

“Take off your shirt!” Emma shouted.

Catherine whooped and whistled. Paul had to smile at Emma and Catherine.

Lori’s face reddened a bit, probably because her own grandma had shouted out the recommendation.

Allan began unbuttoning his shirt slowly and the crowd went wild.

Paul laughed. He hadn’t thought that a honey-do bachelor auction would be anything like this. Then again, Emma was a wolf and they could change the dynamics of a situation in a heartbeat. The ranch hands made a big deal of jerking their shirts out of their waistbands and then starting to unbutton them.

A woman shouted, “Just the shirts, gentlemen.”

And that had everyone laughing.

Stripper music began to play, and Paul removed his shirt to the beat like the others did.

Clapping hands, wolf whistles, and shouts indicated the women were just as excited to bid for the SEALs as they were for the cowboys.

Paul tossed his shirt to Lori for safekeeping. When she grabbed the shirt and held it close, he smiled at her.

Allan went for two hundred and fifty dollars to a lady wearing a pink cowboy hat…

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