Enlightened End #BookReview

I am here with great news and sad news. The latest book in Audrey Carlan's Lotus House Series has been released!! Isn't that GREAT!? In this novel, the seventh in the series, we get to watch Luna and Grant find their happily ever after. Yes, a definitely HEA ending! So why sad news? This book completes the series. Yes, it is the last one.

If you have been reading these novels along with me, then I am sure you are feeling the sadness. The great news, is that in this book, not only do we get to follow Luna and Grant, on their journey to their happy ending, but we get updates on all the couples we already love. As with all the books, you can definitely read it as a standalone, but I HIGHLY recommend reading the entire series, and starting at the beginning.

Audrey is such a wonderful writer. She has the most amazing talent for weaving perfect stories, covering all the details, and creating seemingly real characters and believable lives for them. This latest release will make you laugh, cry, cheer, feel angry, and probably leave you feeling a bit hot at times. There is plenty of steam in this story, but you can easily skim over it, and still really enjoy the plot.

Luna and Grant's journey made me cry. Some from the beauty of it, and some from sadness. It left me feeling happy. Content. As much as I'd love this series to go on forever, this was the perfect ending. The title suits it. I loved the glimpses into all the previous couples' lives. It made the ending of the series bearable.

So, please, make certain you read this series. I highly recommend everything Audrey has written. Happy reading!!

Enlightened End (Lotus House #7) 

by #1 New York Times and USA Today bestselling author 

Audrey Carlan.

Release Date  26th June

Each of the books can be read as a standalone but are better read in order. No cliffhangers. Books are erotic romances written for mature audiences 18+.

Synopsis

My world ended the day I received an eviction notice for Lotus House Yoga. Teaching yoga is all I’ve ever known. I’ve been doing tree pose since the age of two. The studio is my home, my legacy. My mother and her best friend left Lotus House to me so that I could carry on spreading goodness and light to everyone who enters our door. Now I’m faced with the very real possibility that it will all go up in smoke…unless I can convince Grant Winters—the most ridiculously handsome and arrogant businessman I’ve ever met—to save not only my business but all those around it.

When I stormed into Grant’s office to beg and plead for a second chance at preserving what my family spent decades building, I had no idea how it would change my life.

A deal was made.

He’d visit the businesses he was planning to destroy and attend classes at Lotus House while I worked to change his mind. In exchange, I had to enter his business-first world of luxury, fast-talking men, and surgically enhanced women.

Turns out, I didn’t fit in... Then again, neither did he.

In the end, we were both enlightened.

Amazon:  http://amzn.to/2i12Zbp

Nook:  http://bit.ly/2GMOa9N

iBooks:  http://apple.co/2jg46HI

Google Play:  http://bit.ly/2yP4xPZ

Kobo:  http://bit.ly/2HCpHod

Click the link for other books in the Lotus House Series

 Lotus House Series

Meet The Author

Audrey Carlan is a #1 New York Times and International bestselling author. Her titles have appeared on USA Today and the Wall Street Journal. Audrey writes wicked hot love stories that have been translated in over thirty different languages across the globe. She is best known for the world-wide bestselling series Calendar Girl and Trinity.

She lives in the California Valley where she enjoys her two children and the love of her life. When she's not writing, you can find her teaching yoga, sipping wine with her "soul sisters," or with her nose stuck in a steamy romance novel.

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What I need you to know... I received an ARC of this book, to read and give an honest review. I was not paid to say anything, and everything I have written is my honest opinion.

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Temptation Saga Series by Helen Hardt #BookReview #Giveaway

Once again, I am lucky enough to come here, to tell y'all about two really great books. Before I get into the books, I want to make a bit of a confession... I am terrified of writing book reviews. I get so nervous. I feel like I won't say enough, or I will say too much, or I won't make sense. I worry I won't do the book justice, or that I will have loved it and you won't love it, and you won't trust my opinion again. It is really scary, but I also love it. I really love books. Reading is basically my favorite activity, second only to drinking coffee and hanging with Gigi, which are tied for ultimate favorite.

So, I am not sure if you guys like or understand my book reviews. Feel free to give me feedback... positive or negative... and I will do my best to improve. I try to write a review I would like to read, and by that I mean, I try not to give to much information. I am not a fan of reviews that are so detailed, reading the book is nearly pointless. However, if you would like more information, just ask, and I will give you a few more details. 

Now, onto me telling y'all about Taking Catie and Taming Angelina, by Helen Hardt, part of her Temptation Saga Series. When I signed up to write the review, I was able to pick which two books I wanted to read. So, not knowing anything about them, I picked the books based on title alone. I was drawn to the name Catie, and Angelina was immediately following, so that was that. I picked my two books. 

If these two books are any indication of the entire series, I am here to tell you, when you are ready to read them, just pick one and go. You won't be disappointed. I genuinely enjoyed both books. They both had me captivated by the second chapter. The plots are entertaining and fun. They cover the full gamut of emotions. They are realistic with a touch of fairy tale romance. 

Helen Hardt has a true talent for building the characters and the plot simultaneously. You will definitely be drawn to the characters, all the while kept intrigued by the plot. She added some really good twists, and gave plenty of details without being overly verbose. 

Have you read my reviews for Lyz Kelley's Elkridge Series? If you have, you know that one of my favorite things about that series, is how well she builds up the town of Elkridge, the residents, and the events in their lives. Well, Helen Hardt does the same with this series, the town of Bakersville, and its residents. I found myself not only loving the main characters, but also the other people I met along the way. Based on the titles of the remaining books, I know I will get to know several of those other people as I finish reading the series.

I feel like I could have read either of these books, and been completely satisfied. I loved that there were two, and they built on one another. So, I highly recommend reading them all, but if you really only just want one book to read, I honestly think you could just pick one, and be happy in the end. Of the two I read, I think I recommend Taking Catie the most, though that does not mean that Taming Angelina wasn't equally as good.

These two books were so great, that I have added the rest of my series to my Summer Reading list, and I am happy to say I am almost to them. I just need to finish two more books, and I will be begin Tempting Dusty. I am thoroughly excited! 

In Taking Catie, we meet Catie and Chad, and follow them on their journey to happily ever after. There are several bumps on the road. You will laugh and cry and probably get a tad frustrated. Their story is one for the ages. They are one of those almost missed out on love, but got a second chance, but it wasn't totally smooth sailing, but so worth it, love stories, with plenty of passion and laughter mixed in. I think you will most definitely fall in love with them and their story.

In Taming Angelina, we follow Angelina and Rafe on their journey to their happy ending. Now, let me tell you... Their journey is unique and entertaining. Their happy ending was not always a guaranteed thing, but it was magnificent nonetheless. It is complete with a few massive plot twists, and you will definitely keep turning the pages. Now, fair warning, you may not always love Angelina, and Rafe may upset you also, but in the end, I think you will love them both and their story. 

So, yes, I definitely recommend you read these books. Though I have not read the first two books in the series, I actually recommend starting from the beginning. Helen Hardt's writing is so wonderful, that I am confident we will all love the first two. Once you read them, please feel free to let me know what you thought, and discuss the books with me.

They are so easy to read, and will definitely leave you happy.

Read on the find our more about this series, the author, learn where to get copies for yourself, and enter an Amazon gift card giveaway!!! 

The Temptation Saga Series by Helen Hardt Genre: Contemporary Romance 
Available Now!
Series Buy Links Here!
Synopsis Do you like hot cowboys?  Steamy stories that tug at your emotions?  Then dip into the Temptation Saga, a seven book series written by #1 New York Times bestseller Helen Hardt, which follows two families in the fictional town of Bakersville, Colorado.  Though each of the books can be read as a standalone, they are best enjoyed in order.  This series will tempt you, tease you, and take you away as you escape into the lives and loves of the McCray and Bay families.

Meet The Author:
#1 New York Times, #1 USA Today, and #1 Wall Street Journal Bestselling author Helen Hardt’s passion for the written word began with the books her mother read to her at bedtime. She wrote her first story at age six and hasn’t stopped since. In addition to being an award winning author of contemporary and historical romance and erotica, she’s a mother, a black belt in Taekwondo, a grammar geek, an appreciator of fine red wine, and a lover of Ben and Jerry’s ice cream. She writes from her home in Colorado, where she lives with her family. Helen loves to hear from readers.

       

The Temptation Saga Buy Links a Rafflecopter giveaway
Enter the Amazon Gift Card Giveaway HERE!
What I need you to know... I was given a copy of Taking Catie and a copy of Taming Angelina. I was asked to write an honest review about the books. I was not paid to give a good review. The above review is my honest opinion, and had I not thoroughly enjoyed the books, I would have let y'all know! 

Blinded by Lyz Kelley #BookReview

It is that time again. What time? Time for me to tell you about a book I have recently read. I am happy to say, I have nothing but good to say about this book. Actually I had one thing negative I was going to say, as I read a book, that I am going to be writing a review of, I make mental note of things to say. So, I had planned on telling you that I wish the ending hadn't come so abruptly. I wanted more information. Well, you see, I like to try to go into books I review blindly. I don't read any blurbs or comments about the books. I want to form my own opinions and feelings about the book. Well, once I was done, I realized this is the first book in a series. *does happy dance*

I fell so in love with the characters and plot, that I definitely need more. Lyz Kelley is not going to disappoint me (or you), as this is book one in the SIX book Elkridge series. So, do yourself a favor, and get this book now, and read it, so you will be ready when book two is released. 

I loved this book because it was unique. The characters were unique, the storyline was unique, and it was well written. It has excellent character development and plot development. It will keep you turning the page. It is a very interesting murder-mystery, crime drama, with plenty of romance and passion mixed in. It will appeal to all types of readers. If you love romance, this book is for you. If you like mystery, this book is for you. If you like whodunit crime stories, this book is for you.

You will find yourself falling for the characters, and cheering them on. Their romance feels genuine and real. Their passion is hot, but not so hot it is annoying. It is just a very well written book. I absolutely recommend you read this. 

As usual, if you read this, please come back and let's discuss it!! You can comment here or on my Facebook page!! I would absolutely love to hear other opinions on this book, and also, if you want to discuss theories... I am absolutely down for that!! Mostly, I just CANNOT wait for book two!!! 

Continue reading for a synopsis of this book, information on the author, information on how to get this book for yourself, FAQ about this book, and a GIVEAWAY!! 

Blinded by Lyz Kelley Release Date: 7th February 2017 Genre: Contemporary Romance  #blinded

Synopsis A small town murder. A second chance at love. Somebody killed Joey Gaccione’s brother. After a ten-year absence, the big city detective returns home to Colorado for the funeral knowing he will be pressured to find Sheriff Sam’s killer. Joey’s instincts say whoever murdered his brother is part of something more sinister than the Elkridge deputies can handle. Mara Dijocomo's dreams died the night a drunk driver killed her parents and sister, and left her permanently wounded. After months of therapy, she’s finally adjusting to her new reality while working to save her mother’s floral business. When the first boy she ever loved walks back into her life, she wonders if she and Joey are getting a second chance to find love.  As Joey and Mara’s love blooms, the evidence becomes clear the local deputies are either ill-equipped to comprehend what’s happening, or someone’s covering up a crime. Joey and Mara fight to balance between their careers, family, and their renewed love until the FBI contacts Joey ultimately tipping the scales. ************ If you like a steamy romance, deep emotional topics, a thread of mystery, and a cozy happy ending then BLINDED is for you. The first book in the ELKRIDGE SERIES debuts a quirky cast of characters and begins introducing evidence to solve Sheriff Sam murder. 

BLINDED on Sale: Amazon

Meet the Author

Award-winning, contemporary romance author Lyz Kelley lives in a small community in Colorado with her husband and several four-legged family members. Lyz writes about brave women who have faced extraordinary challenges, and the honorable men who have an enormous capacity to love, even if they may not know it. 

A healing love is at the heart of her book series. Creating wounded yet amazing characters—discovering what drives them, frightens them, heals them, makes them laugh—is what gives her joy. Lyz is pleased to share that joy through her masterfully written stories. 

To keep tabs on her award-winning novels, connect with Lyz by signing up for her newsletter at LyzKelley.com. Also visit LyzKelleysHeroes.com to join Kelley's Heroes, Lyz's VIP club. Members receive an exclusive copy of A Soldier’s Wife, learn about thoughtful giveaways, and get a sneak peek at upcoming releases. Members may even get the opportunity to receive advanced reader copies. Check out LyzKelley.com for more information.

Website: www.LyzKelley.com

Newsletter Sign Up: www.LyzKelley.com

Kelley’s Heroes (VIP Club) Sign Up: www.LyzKelleysHeroes.com

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Why would readers enjoy this book? 

My Elkridge Series is a puzzle. In book 1, BLINDED, Sheriff Sam is murdered. It will take 6-books to solve the crime. Word of caution: There are some red herrings throughout the series. Solving the crime will not be easy, and you don’t have to wait long. All books will be launched in 2017. If you like sensual romances, with deep emotional topics, threads of suspense, and a happy-ever-after then BLINDED, a stand-alone love story in the Elkridge Series, is for you. Let the mystery begin. ~Lyz Kelley~

Giveaway

https://romancedevoured.com/giveaways/win-a-10-amazon-gift-card-from-author-lyz-kelley/?lucky=313347

BLINDED: Frequently Asked Questions: (FAQ)

Why did you develop Elkridge, your small-town series?

Both my mom and dad grew up in small towns and I loved the idea of a microenvironment for the setting of my series. Since childhood, I heard many fun stories about small-town life. I lived in a fairly small town growing up, so I figured why not create a town in Colorado? Elkridge was pulled from many different elements of nearby mountain towns to create a unique place. Don’t go looking for Elkridge, it doesn’t exist, but have fun visiting through my new series.

You mention in your author notes working with an FBI Special Agent.

Yes, Special Agent Michael Bantner came to speak to our writing group when I lived in Philadelphia. Years later, when I started plotting the Elkridge series, he helped with the technical aspects of the plot. He loved my story idea, and said it was one of the most realistic plots he’d heard. I was very excited. To get some of the local details correct, I also interviewed one of my high school friends, who worked in the local sheriff’s department. I love research, so it was a lot of fun.

Are any characters in BLINDED based on real people in your life?

The character that is most real to me is Sam. My brother, Sam, was always going head first into life. Always wanting to be the hero, he often didn’t listen to other people’s advice. Don’t get me wrong—we were best friends, and I loved him dearly. When he died just before I graduated high school, I was devastated. I can relate to how both Mara and Joey feel about people they love being snatched from their lives. Those feelings are real, and even after all this time, I still can feel the chasm my brother’s absence has left on my heart. 

When Joey first shows up in Elkridge, he has no intention of searching for his brother’s killer. Why?

My technical experts suggested a brother wanting to investigate his brother’s murder, in another jurisdiction, would not be feasible. Sure, romance books are based on fantasy, and there is nothing better than an alpha male charging in to save the day. However, I wanted to write a more emotional book. When my brother died, we were very close. While writing the book,  I started asking myself , what if Joey wasn’t close with his brother? What if he had regrets? What if he could investigate the most horrific crimes, but couldn’t stomach investigating his brother’s homicide?

Mara is such an unusual heroine. How did you develop her character?

Mara was developed out of an exercise at a writing retreat. C.J. Lyons, a New York Times best-selling author, was giving a lecture on the use of senses in writing. Most authors use sight as the primary go-to sense, and we were exploring the use of other senses to add flavor to our writing. I really struggled with the exercise. Like anything, I knew that conquering a problem takes practice. So, I wrote a novella. Then a friend talked me into writing a full-length book—thus BLINDED was created.

Where did you get the idea for Kym’s quirky character?

Kym, Mara’s best friend, was a lot of fun to write. Mara, the heroine, is so serious and a bit like me that I thought she needed someone who tilted her world a bit. There were times when writing Kym, I had to laugh. The humorous funeral scene actually happened to a friend of mine. She and her family were at a funeral and her uncle started cracking jokes to lighten the heaviness of the situation. Since I couldn’t find any way around excluding a funeral scene from the book, I decided to adopt the idea to make the scene a bit lighter.

There are so many fun characters in Elkridge. Are you planning to write more books?

Yes, book two is Kym’s book. It’s a 85-page novella. If you want a quick weekend or airplane read, SPURNED is a good book to pick up. The eBook will be available in March.  ABANDONED is a full-length book that introduces new characters and includes characters you met in BLINDED, will be available in April. All books in the 6-book series should be out in 2017. 

What I need you to know: I was not paid to write this review. I received an ARC of the book for free, and was asked to give an honest review of the book, which I have done. I value honesty. If I love a book, I will tell you. If I don't like a book, I will tell you. I will say this... Read it and decide for yourself. Everyone interprets and enjoys books differently.