Perfectly Imperfect written by Harper Sloan (408 pgs) – finished reading 11/20/15 – 4 stars - Contemporary Romance

***POSSIBLE SPOILERS PRESENT WITHIN THIS REVIEW***

This novel started off on a sad note. My heart immediately broke for young Willow Tate. With a step-father and half-sister like that, who needed enemies? Willow, a young woman beaten and broken emotionally, has no confidence in herself and doesn’t see how much she really shines. She’s told repeatedly by her family, who are cold and calculating, how ugly and overweight she is. If it wasn’t for her two supportive friends, Kirby and Eddie, who knows just how damaged Willow could be. Even her ex-husband was a monster with his constant verbal abusive comments. How can one possibly think that they are worthy of love and friendship after hearing such vilifying slanders over the years? When at last Willow can’t take her family’s constant verbal bashings, she snaps. And, I mean she totally has had enough and doesn’t go quietly. She loses her cool as she is pushed to the limit. What she doesn’t realize, though, is that award-winning actor, Kane Masters, witnesses her melt-down. This glorious male, however, feels an underlying connection with her as they meet once again. Kane has come to her rescue before, and this just cements the fact to him that there is something  worth taking a chance on with Willow. What will she do when he’s asked her to consider acting on this “connection” with him when all she’s ever known is betrayal and cruelness? The man is beautiful! What can he possibly see in her, Willow questions? He’s smart and kind and has everything going for him. People like him just don’t associate with people like her! Willow might think that Kane has everything, but there’s one thing that Kane is missing. And, that’s that one special someone to share his life with. He’s willing to take a chance on that “special” someone to be Willow, though. But, will she give him that “chance” to show her just how extraordinary she really is?

Damn!! I think I high-lighted half of this book. Ms. Harper writes truthfully of how constant condescending comments can damage an individual’s self-worth. It’s sad how your family, the ones you’re supposed to believe in and trust, can be so mean without any conscience whatsoever. I can appreciate, without a doubt, the note that the author included in the beginning of the book. It spoke volumes as to Ms. Harper’s compassion and hopefulness as to people who go through this struggle with self-image while trying to find a relatively livable path. I, for one, enjoyed the book immensely other than one part about three-quarters through. I just don’t know why it was included. I felt it unnecessary and just wished the author would have just stuck to the love story. This book held an important message to believe in yourself and that there’s sincerely someone out there for everyone that will honor you, protective you, and love you wholly for being yourself. As a reader I came away with a deeply moving experience that sent out a powerful message. One book not to be missed!!

MEMORABLE QUOTES  written...

“Sweet Willow. Didn’t anyone ever tell you that life starts at the end of your comfort zone? When you break free of the fears that have held you back, you’re going to be free to fly, and that, honey, is when you’re going to find the happiness you deserve. But you have to start somewhere. You have to push that fear aside and just wing it-trusting you will never be alone should you fall.” ~ Eddie (Chap. 8)

“Hope isn’t always something people can understand, regardless of the picture you paint. More often than not, the promise of something better is more terrifying than the horrible situations life can throw your way. Sometimes, they just aren’t strong enough to believe in something so unpredictable. They aren’t capable of being or becoming impenetrable against life.” ~ Willow (Chap. 13)

“She has to be able to show others that the hope they need is within themselves and you are stronger than fear tries to trick you mind into believing.” ~ Kane (Chap. 13)

“No, let me finish. There isn’t beauty in perfection, it’s as fake as the image the word projects. Beauty is found in imperfection, Willow, because to admit you’re not perfect means you’re admitting you’re not whole and absolute. When I think of myself, I see someone willing to admit he’s as far from complete as it gets because, in order to get to that perfection, I need to find the other part of me who will make my life better. To take all the faults I have and fill them, and only then will I be there. You see, the way I see it, the only way to become perfect is to find that perfectly imperfect person who brings it out of you.” ~ Kane (Chap 22)

“The magnificence that we both see in each other will only intensify the beauty we see in ourselves.” ~ Willow (Chap. 40)

“I clap and beam up at the man who truly has proven to the world that when you believe in the possibility of becoming impenetrable, you can overcome anything and win. I, Willow Tate, soon-to-be Masters, have truly won. I have the love of the greatest man and his family. But most of all, I have the love of my own self and each and every perfectly imperfect moment I’ve lived, loved, and won.” ~ Willow (Epilogue)

And, that cover is just so beautiful!! Draws the reader right in...

Review Written, 11/21/15

Taming the Rake (The Rake, #1) written by Monica McCarty (360 pgs) – finished reading 11/18/15 – 4 stars - Historical Romance

It’s been almost a whole year since I’ve read a Historical Romance. And, I’m happy to say that I picked up a real winner. Monica McCarty never disappoints with her romances, and this is one that promises to deliver one fervent love story yielding one incredible couple! James Coventry is definitely the brooding type with his casual aloftness and unhidden sexual trysts on display. He doesn’t give a fig what anyone thinks, but there’s an underlying reason as to his drunken indiscretions and brash behavior. His life has not been without condescending abuse as a young lad which also includes the present.When he meets Georgina Beauclerk, he is smitten with her. But, she’s too young. Inexperienced. And, he never lasts very long with anyone. Gina’s probably the type that needs commitment and fidelity. He’s been there, done that before, and it didn’t work out. He was hurt irrevocably. She does, although, push him to the edge with her daring ways and alluring presence. Along with Gina’s beauty, she is confident and smart, and she’s in no way intimidated by Coventry. He can’t seem to get her out of his mind so much so that when she comes to him with a proposition, how can he turn her down. Coventry, though, eagerly turns the table on her, and she still surprises him with her boldness. That is until he discovers that she may be the one holding all the cards as to succeeding her quest to make a fool out of him.

One just has to love this couple!! There were quite a few laugh out loud moments that had me so entertained in their story. Ms. McCarty doesn’t skimp on her knowledge of the ton as well. From the exquisite descriptions of their clothes to the flavorful English language spoken, the reader gets a true feeling of the Regency era. There was just only one small part that just had me a little peeved where Coventry couldn’t have been more disgraceful. But, he did redeem himself wonderfully with a true confession that really put himself in humiliating circumstances. He was definitely swoon-worthy in Gina’s eyes at that moment, and mine also! Oh, and who could forget how HOT and delectable these two were intimately? A fit of perfection is what they were! The author’s taste in writing love scenes is stellar. It starts with that sexual tension where the reader just wants more, and then the more is totally off-the-charts STEAMY when they finally come together!! This author made me see what I was missing from my lack of reading historical romance. I definitely have to get myself invested in reading this genre more! I’m intrigued with the history within a love story! It just makes me appreciate the past so much more...

“Lady Georgina wasn’t the night, she was the day, bright and shining, bringing light back into the darkness of his life. Her smile, her laughter, her beauty, transcended the fortress he’d erected around his heart.” ~ Coventry (Chap. 21)

Review Written, 11/20/15

Reap (Scarred Souls, #2) written by Tillie Cole (231 pgs) – finished reading 11/12/15 – 4.5 stars - Contemporary Romance (Mafia/Dark)

This was a difficult one to read. So much heartbreak was involved with one damaged male. He was drugged and taught to kill at a young age. Stolen from his family when just a young boy as he watched his family massacred, he’s known as only a number, “221”. The man is so far out of touch with reality. He doesn’t ever speak and is controlled totally by a drug and his “master”. But, when he is rescued, due to a debt owed from an unidentified man, he’s confused and not sure who to trust. This is Zaal Kostava’s story of finding love with a Russian mafia’s boss’ daughter, Talia Tolstoi. The two families are enemies, and it’s not possible for them to disgrace either family. But, they find their most precious soul mate in each other. “You are for me. I am for you.” – spoken as only truly infatuated lovers do.

The story is narrated in three POV’s – Talia, Zaal’s, and Luka’s. I liked how the author included more of Luka and Kisa’s story and put more of a finalized spin on it. So, you really have to read Luka’s story first before continuing on with Zaal’s. Luka is still trying to find his way and how to deal with the reality of who he’s supposed to be with Kisa’s help, which only promises to solidify their bond of forever. With little Russian phrases within the pages, we get a true sense of a more romantic flaire. And, that ending with Luka and Zaal realizing their true bond, was just perfect! I can’t gush about this book more!! The only complaint that I had was the quickness of Zaal and Talia coming together. It just seemed a little rushed. I needed a little more time for Zaal to find himself after he was just rescued. I love this series, and I can’t wait to read the next book that seems only fitting that it will explore more of the Kostava family...

“Be strong. Keep strong.” ~ Zaal (Chap. 20)

AND, THAT COVER IS JUST AMAZING!!!

Review Written, 11/12/15

BOOKS READ IN October, 2015 (19 total)

Storm (Sex and Bullets, #1) written by Jo Raven (243 pgs) – finished reading 10/1/15 – 4 stars

Bobby Does Dallas (Hill Country Heart, #3) written by Sable Hunter (210 pgs) – finished reading 10/4/15 – 4 stars

Redemption Lane (Crossroads, #1) written by Rachel Blaufeld (295 pgs) – finished reading 10/5/15 – 4.5 stars

All I Need Is You (Loving You, #2) written by Wendy S. Marcus (252 pgs) – finished reading 10/6/15 – 5 stars

Absolution Road (Crossroads, #2) written by Rachel Blaufeld (262 pgs) – finished reading 10/6/15 – 5 stars

Bad Boy Next Door written by Abigail Graham (358 pgs) – finished reading 10/7/15 – 3.5 stars

Truth or Beard (Winston Brothers, #1) written by Penny Reid (400 pgs) – finished reading 10/11/15 – 3.5 stars

Darkroom (Darkroom Saga, #1) written by Poppet (290 pgs) – finished reading 10/13/15 – 4 stars

The Aubrey Rules (Chicago on Ice, #1) written by Aven Ellis (261 pgs) – finished reading 10/14/15 – 4 stars

Storms Over Secrets (Over, #3) written by J.A. DeRouen (306 pgs) – finished reading 10/16/15 – 5 stars

Borden (Borden, #1) written by R.J. Lewis (281 pgs) – finished reading 10/17/15 –

4 stars

Borden 2 (Borden, #2) written by R.J. Lewis (295 pgs) – finished reading 10/19/15 –

5 stars

Chasing Cassidy written by D. Kelly (346 pgs) – finished reading 10/19/15 – 4 stars

Nineteen (Love by Numbers, #1) written by E.S. Carter (413 pgs) – finished reading 10/20/15 – 5 stars

Twenty One (Love by Numbers, #2) written by E.S. Carter (342 pgs) – finished reading 10/21/15 – 5 stars

Badger written by C.M. McKenna (513 pgs) – finished reading 10/22/15 – 3.5 stars

Back-Up (Back-Up, #1) written by A.M. Madden (392 pgs) – finished reading 10/25/15 – 4 stars

Ripple Effects written by L.J. Greene (328 pgs) – finished reading 10/29/15 – 5 stars

Taking Connor written by B.N. Toler (252 pgs) – finished reading 10/31/15 – 4 stars

AND, the BEST BOOK(S) of the Month is...the duo of Nineteen and Twenty One (Love by Numbers series) written by E.S. Carter...

Taking Connor written by B.N. Toler (252 pgs) – finished reading 10/31/15 – 4 stars - Contemporary Romance

I thought that the hero in this book was all bad-boy, but underneath he was just a sweetheart of a man. Yes, he was in prison at one time, and yes, he had a shit-load of tattoos, but it was him defending his deceased cousin’s honor that made me swoon for the guy. He was one impressive male with all those muscles and that hard edge that drove his cousin’s wife to lust after him. And, he drove a motorcyle too. Damn!!

Demi hadn’t been with a man in three years, and with Connor living in the extra apartment over her garage, she couldn’t help but be attracted to him. But, he was Blake’s cousin. They had been like brothers. How would Blake feel if they were together? Probably happy because he had loved his cousin, and he had loved his wife fiercely. That’s just the type of guy Blake was. When a horrible act is committed and secrets are revealed, it is devastating for all, including Demi’s best friend’s family as well. Within this story the reader also sees the spectrum disorder autism touched on with awareness and eventually acceptance. It’s believable and honest.

From the beginning the author pulls the reader right into the story. She weaves emotions and drama into the story as every page is turned. The love story was incredible! So much happens for them to get together, and it’s not until maybe three-quarters in, that they finally submit to their feelings. I love a book that creates all that sexual tension! It’s the anticipation of the first time that has me so engrossed in their story. Ms. Toler had me interested the whole time, and I won’t hesitate to pick up another of her books...

Review Written, 11/2/15

Ripple Effects written by L.J. Greene (328 pgs) – finished reading 10/29/15 – 5 stars - Contemporary Romance

I loved this book! I’m always looking for new authors to “wow” me, and Ms. Greene does it spendidly! This book was funny, romantic, and sweet. The beginning chapter had me laughing my ass off. It’s the story of two amazing characters that just needed acceptance and love. They seemed to fit perfectly. That is until secrets invade their trust and honesty with each other.

Danny was wonderful! Smart, humorous, and not too bad on the yes. He’s Sarah’s former high school science teacher, and when they meet again and pursue each other, their relationship is a bit strained from their age difference. They seem to get passed it, but Danny’s avoidance to tell Sarah a huge part of what his life is like has ramifications for their relationship. Will they be able to believe in their love for each other???

Sarah was also an amazing character! Great sense of humor, pretty, and very independent. Her life was not very easy growing up. She had quite a few responsibilities after the loss of a parent. And, when she and Danny connect after some years have gone by, it’s breathtaking! Magical! Romantic! I couldn’t get enough of their love story!! It was mesmerizing! The words. The characters. Just made me swoon with all its heart and soul. One book not to be missed!!!

This is the kind of passion where every second is so precious that you’d trade a thousand of those random moments for just one of these. Like if you can just have this one perfect thing, you don’t need anything else. This is the kind of passion where you take in every detail; you memorize it, and hold it safe in your heart because nothing else could ever be better. This passion prizes commitment, longevity, and trust. This is when you know you’re with the one person who is your other half. This is love.” ~ Sarah (Chap. 22)

Review Written, 11/2/15