Review: Defending Their Mate Part One - Moira Rogers

It's been three months since her new pack saved Grace from captivity. They're everything she never knew to expect as a werewolf--loyal, devoted, and fiercely protective. But her peace of mind is threatened by the arrival of her mating fever--and the crushing desire it brings.

The last time she went into heat, her wolf would accept none of her captors, and the thwarted need almost drove her mad. Now, she finds herself drawn to two very different wolves. Connor's easy, affectionate nature makes her feel worshiped, sheltered. And Mac's inner darkness calls to her own feral cravings...

Tragedy has left Mac emotionally locked away, unwilling to take a mate. It doesn't matter that Grace sparks lust as well as his instincts. He'll keep her safe, defend her--with his life, if necessary. But he can't risk his heart.

Control over his wolf is all that matters to Connor--until Grace. But claiming the beauty is anything but simple. Falling for her could shatter the bond he shares with Mac, and cost him everything that's kept him sane.

When Grace goes into heat, all bets are off. Because only one thing matters--soothing her fever.

NOTE: Previously published as Defending their Mate Part One & Part Two as Mia Thorne. Though the stories have been reissued, the content is unchanged.

The Last Pack Series:
Protecting Their Mate Part One
Protecting Their Mate Part Two
Protecting Their Mate Part Three
Defending Their Mate Part One

Visit Moira Rogers' website for more information

Review:
Defending Their Mate was previously released as an eight part serial under the pen name Mia Thorne and is now being rereleased in 3 parts under the name Moira Rogers. As far as I'm aware there have been no changes to the original text (apart from reducing the number of instalments) so if you already read the previous version you don't need to purchase this one. This is the second book in the Last Pack series so if you've already read Protecting Their Mate you'll be familiar with the world and the characters in this story. I was actually really excited to find out that Connor and Mac's story was next because I loved them in the first book, Grace is going to be one lucky wolf to catch these two!

It's been three months since the pack saved Grace from the werewolves who were trying to sell her and she's still trying to come to terms with everything that has happened to her since. Her new pack couldn't be more different than the old one, she's no longer a prisoner and here she is treated with respect and welcomed like a member of the family. She has become friends with Ashley but she is still wary of the men, especially because she knows she's coming into heat again and she doesn't really understand what that means or what will be expected of her.

Connor has taken a particular shine to Grace and woos her with all kinds of gifts as he tries to make her feel welcome but he has the worst control of his wolf out of any of them and is terrified of hurting or scaring her. Mac is the one who is always in control of himself and Connor trusts him to keep them both in line, the two of them are incredibly close and have a bond that they don't share with the rest of the pack. Mac is also attracted to Grace but he's had his heart broken once already and he's not willing to take that risk again, especially given Grace's history. All bets are off when she comes into heat though, she desperately needs what only they can offer but all three of them are wary of taking the next step. Especially Connor and Mac who worry they'll lose each other if she picks one of them as her mate.

This is a fab start to the second book in the series, Grace is understandable traumatised from her previous experiences but she was never raped so it wasn't hard to believe that she would be able to give into her attraction to the wolves so quickly. This whole series is definitely erotic romance so the heat ramps up very quickly but I'm definitely not complaining about that and I'm already looking forward to reading the next instalment!

Source: Received from the authors in exchange for an honest review.

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Part One Paperback / Part One Kindle / Complete Serial Kindle:

Review: Protecting Their Mate Part Three - Moira Rogers

Part Three (of Three)

As the full moon raises tensions--and appetites--Ashley indulges her wildest fantasies...and discovers what it truly means to belong to the pack. But Blake's control is tested as outsiders descend on the pack's territory, and Ashley discovers that following her heart may be the only way to find her mate.

Ashley's heart longs for one man, but her wolf demands that she test herself against the alpha. Can she settle for a life of never knowing, or will she risk everything for Blake?

Protecting Their Mate was originally published as an eight part serial under the penname Mia Thorne. It has been repackaged, but the story remains the same.

The Last Pack Series:
Protecting Their Mate Part One
Protecting Their Mate Part Two
Protecting Their Mate Part Three
Defending Their Mate Part One

Visit Moira Rogers' website for more information

Review:
This is part three of a serialised novel so I really wouldn't recommend reading it if you haven't read the first two parts, it's also worth noting that this serial was previously published under the pen name Mia Thorne and although it has a nice new cover the content hasn't changed so there's no need to buy it again if you've read the previous incarnation. Now we've got that out of the way I'm going to say if you like your paranormal romance hot and steamy then this is definitely the series for you, you may actually be familiar with these authors under their other pen name Kit Rocha and if you are a fan of the Beyond books then you're going to love this one too!

Since her rescue Ashley has really started to embrace her werewolf side thanks to Blake and the rest of his pack. They've taught her that her desires are natural and nothing to be ashamed of and now she's started to realise how wonderful life can be surrounded by other shifters. Her wolf still hasn't decided on a mate though and as much as her heart now belongs to Blake they're both worried her wolf will choose another. To add to an already stressful situation they also have to deal with the arrival of a rival pack in their territory, a pack who seem very eager to claim Ashley for themselves.

I really enjoyed the final instalment of this serial, its been great to see how much Ashley has grown in confidence since the beginning and I've really enjoyed meeting all five of the men in her new pack. While I think Blake and Ashley are perfect for each other I've also enjoyed her experiences with the rest of the pack and I'm definitely looking forward to seeing them all find mates of their own. It's actually hard to decide which of the wolves I like the most, they all have unique qualities that draw me to them but I have a feeling that I'm probably going to love Mac and Connor's story the most. What can I say, I just love the way these authors write a triad relationship (Ace, Cruz and Rachel from the Beyond series are still my all time favourites!) so I have great expectations for these two when they find a woman who is willing to take them both on!

This is definitely one of the hottest series that these authors write as Moira Rogers but there is also a nice amount of romance between the main couple and some fun world building as we learn more about the werewolves and how they live. If you're not a fan of multiple partners then this series isn't for you but if you're open to a world where that isn't just accepted but also encouraged (all completely consensual, don't worry there's no dubious content) then you should give this serial a try.

Source: Received from the authors in exchange for an honest review.

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Review: Protecting Their Mate Part Two - Moira Rogers

Part Two (of Three)

As Ashley settles in to her life at the lodge, she meets more of her new pack mates--including wicked, intense Jud. His touch arouses her hunger--and Blake's possessiveness. Lucas, the unyielding alpha, grows concerned with the attachment between Blake and Ashley and sends Blake out on a mission.

While Blake is away, Ashley meets the most elusive member of her new pack--the enigmatic Connor, a hacker who, like her, was raised among humans. For Connor, sex is volatile--dangerous--and being near Ashley draws out the feral edge of the wolf inside him. As Ashley's connection with Blake--and with Lucas--grows deeper, an outside force threatens the peace of the Last River pack.

Protecting Their Mate was originally published as an eight part serial under the penname Mia Thorne. It has been repackaged, but the story remains the same.

The Last Pack Series:
Protecting Their Mate Part One
Protecting Their Mate Part Two
Protecting Their Mate Part Three
Defending Their Mate Part One

Visit Moira Rogers' website for more information

Review:
This is part two of Moira Roger's Protecting Their Mate serial and I wouldn't recommend reading it as a stand alone so make sure you've read part one first. If you're looking for a hot new series to try then I'd definitely recommend this though. You may have read these author's books under their other pen name, Kit Rocha, in which case you'll already have a good idea how spicy this is going to be. Imagine the O'Kanes were werewolves and you should have a pretty good idea where it's going!

This continues Ashley's story now that she has been rescued by Blake and taken back to the home of his pack. Blake is already head over heels for Ashley but he knows it's her wolf who will decide who her mate is and he's convinced that her wolf will pick the pack alpha Lucas because he's the strongest but that doesn't mean he won't fight to claim her for himself. Lucas worries that Blake has become too attached since Ashley hasn't made a decision yet so he sends him away from their base on a mission which leaves her with Connor and Mac when the mating fever takes hold.

I'm having a hard time now choosing which of these wolves I like the most, they all have different charms and as much as I'm rooting for Ashley and Blake to end up together I'm already really looking forward to Connor and Mac's story. I'm pretty confident that they'll end up in a triad relationship with some lucky female wolf and I can't wait to see who it is that wins their heart! I hope we get a book for each of the wolves though because I definitely want to see more of Jud and Lucas too.

This serial has a heavy focus on the steamy times and it definitely falls on the more erotic side of paranormal romance but I'm enjoying every minute of it. There is still a plot going on in the background though and now that Lucas and the others are arranging to meet with another pack I think things are going to get even more interesting. I'm looking forward to reading the end of Ashley and Blake's story (I refuse to consider she'll end up with anyone else!) and I'm definitely hoping that Donna and Bree (the writing team behind Moira Rogers and Kit Rocha) are planning more books set in this world.

Source: Received from the authors in exchange for an honest review.

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Review: Protecting Their Mate Part One - Moira Rogers

Part One (of Three)

Blake is on a mission from his alpha--to track down a werewolf whose parents dragged her into the human world years ago, one who may be in danger. He expects the lead to go nowhere, given how few wolves live among humans, but he discovers something rare indeed, caged in a basement: a beautiful, curvy woman gripped by the fever, ready to mate.

Ashley Todd has never fit in. She's always been too much--too big, too demanding, too aware of the wolf hiding beneath her skin. She's been locked away for months--been alone for a lifetime--and in walks Blake to save her from her prison. Her rescuer is hard, intense--a dominant wolf whose bossy attitude makes her growl...and yearn to submit.

Soothing Ashley's mating fever is Blake's responsibility--and his pleasure. Their passion is explosive, undeniable. But what started out as a job for Blake quickly becomes something more, and the toughest part of his mission looms: taking Ashley back to his pack so she can choose her permanent mate from amongst his brethren.

Ashley is drawn to dominant Blake, but meeting the rest of the pack reignites her desire. She is overwhelmed by her new life and all it entails, but embracing her inner wolf means embracing the truth: if she doesn't explore her attraction to the other members of the pack, she'll never find her forever mate.

Protecting Their Mate was originally published as an eight part serial under the penname Mia Thorne. It has been repackaged, but the story remains the same.

The Last Pack Series:
Protecting Their Mate Part One
Protecting Their Mate Part Two
Protecting Their Mate Part Three
Defending Their Mate Part One
Defending Their Mate Part One

Visit Moira Rogers' website for more information

Review:
Protecting Their Mate is a novel that was previously published as an eight part serial under the pen name Mia Thorne and is now being rereleased in just three parts under the name Moira Rogers. Just to be clear the story hasn't changed so if you read it in it's original format you don't need to buy this version. I've been a fan of the writing team behind the Moira Rogers for many years now but it's been a while since they had anything new under this name as they've been focused on their Kit Rocha stories for the last couple of years. If you've read any of their Beyond Series you'll know they excel at writing no-holds-barred but incredibly hot sex and thats exactly what you'll get from this serial. If you're looking for a hot quickie read then you definitely want to check this series out but if that's not your thing then it may be one to avoid.

Ashley is a werewolf but her parents chose to leave their pack when she was very young so she's been raised amongst humans. Her parents were determined to suppress their werewolf nature so Ashley has been taught to keep her wolf locked down tight but when she struggled to hide her mating urge her parents locked her in their basement hoping she would learn control. Instead it's just put her through months of torture as she struggles to deal with feelings that feel completely alien to her. Blake has been sent by his Alpha to track down Ashley, they know her parents chose to live as humans but have heard rumours that she's in danger and want to make sure she's okay. Blake is horrified by the conditions he finds her in, especially when he realises she's in heat, but he will do whatever it takes to give her the relief she needs and take her to safety.

I thought this was a great start to the serial, Blake and Ashley have wonderful chemistry and the authors waste no time getting down to the action so the heat ramps up very quickly! Female werewolves are in short supply and Blake's pack consists of five guys who are all looking to find a mate but they're more than willing to share in the meantime so I think Ashley is going to have a wonderful time while she decides which one of them is her best match. If you've read any of the Beyond series published under the name Kit Rocha then you'll have a very good idea of how hot this story will be (if you like this serial and haven't read the Beyond books - DO IT NOW!). I'm definitely looking forward to continuing the series and I can't wait to see which of the wolves Ashley ends up with!

Source: Received from the authors in exchange for an honest review.

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Spotlight: Anything but Broken - Joelle Knox (Guest Post: Burnout or Bliss)

I've been a huge fan of writing duo Bree Bridges and Donna Herren ever since I discovered their paranormal romance and urban fantasy stories written under the name Moira Rogers. Then they went on to create one of my all time favourite series and introduced us to the O'Kanes of Sector Four in their post-apocalyptic erotic romance series written under the pen name Kit Rocha. So of course when I found out that they were turning their hand to a NA contemporary romance series I knew I HAD to read it.

I love how these two authors seem to be able to turn their hand to anything, the stories they write under each of their pen names are very different but you can always expect fantastic, realistic characters, brilliant world building and believable romances. That definitely holds true for their first release under their newest pen name, Joelle Knox. To celebrate the release of Anything but Broken I'm thrilled to welcome Bree to the blog today to talk about why they decided to try their hand at another new genre but first let me give you a little more information about the book which releases on the 25th of August (and is already available to pre-order). I was actually lucky enough to get send an advanced copy and I LOVED it so watch out for my review on release date.

After five years, tragedy brings Hannah Casey back to Hurricane Creek to bury what’s left of her family. She’s flunking out of college, haunted by scandal, and the only person who cares is Sean Whitlow, an irresistible bad boy with a soft spot for her. The problem? He’s her dead sister’s ex.

Sean doesn’t bleed red, he bleeds motor oil. During the week, he struggles to turn his auto repair shop into a profitable business. But when Saturday night rolls around, he’s the reigning stock-car king of the local race track. He doesn’t know how to lose–or how to walk away and leave Hannah alone with her grief.

Between her grades and her wealthy family’s dark secrets, Hannah’s barely holding her life together. And the last thing Sean needs is to get tangled up with another Casey girl. As the attraction between them spins out of control, they’ll either find a love with no limits–or go up in flames.

Visit Joelle Knox's website for more information.

Now please give Bree a very warm welcome to to the blog today!

********************

Bree Bridges is one half of the co-writing partnership behind Joelle Knox, Kit Rocha and Moira Rogers. Together with her best friend Donna Herren, she's written over a dozen novels and over fifty novellas and short stories. Anything but Broken is their first New Adult romance.

Burnout or Bliss

It's no secret that authors are feeling the pressure to write faster and faster these days. And most of the time I don't complain—there is nothing as awesome as having readers eager to read your next story. But that pressure has a dark side—the fate that haunts authors, the word that makes us wake up at night in a cold sweat.

Burnout.

Burning out is scary. The most terrifying part is that it can happen even with a series you love. Sometimes you have to work through the burnout because you've made commitments and there's no other choice. But self-publishing gives me a little more control over my schedule, and I've realized that when I hit a wall, sometimes pushing through is the wrong move.

Which is how new series happen.

When Donna and I sat down to write our first Kit Rocha title, Beyond Shame, we weren't thinking about publishing or strategy or marketability. We were thinking, "Oh god, I'm tired. Let's just write something different." We'd been writing paranormal romance exclusively for a while, and outside stressors were making it difficult. Our brains were chugging slowly. Of every 1,000 words we managed, only 250 of them were worth a damn.

Then we started Beyond Shame. It was different. It was new. It was a complete change of pace, with a new setting and a new world and a different voice. We flew through the first book, and the energy and excitement spilled over. When it was done, we turned back to our next paranormal, excited and renewed.

Sometimes all it takes to get your creativity flowing again is a new perspective. Which is what we needed last fall when we were midway through our (in retrospect, kind of reckless) attempt to write two novels and three novellas in the same series in under a year. The words weren't coming, only this time we knew how to fix it.

And that's how Hurricane Creek came to life.

Anything but Broken is unlike anything else we've ever written. It's contemporary. It's New Adult. It's a book where the conflicts stay between two people—where the fight is against the trauma and loss of a troubled past, and the biggest danger is the secrets a broken person keeps to protect their vulnerable heart.

Writing it renewed us. It brought back my excitement and my enthusiasm. Sean and Hannah helped us fall in love with writing all over again. Which is why it's so exciting to finally share them with the world. Every book we write is the book of our hearts…but this is one of the few books that saved our hearts.

Anything but Broken by Joelle Knox comes out August 25th and is available now for pre-order.

********************

Thanks for stopping by and explaining your writing process Bree, I for one love that you like to switch things up a bit occasionally. I'm an O'Kane fangirl so will devour as many Beyond books as you guys care to give me but it's nice to branch out into different genres and keep things fresh. I'm already looking forward to the next two Hurrican Creek novels!

Review: Enigma - Moira Rogers

Anna Lenoir has always fought. First to escape her broken childhood, then to prove a female shapeshifter can stand shoulder to shoulder with the men. Now she fights for money, and her reputation is as legendary as her stone-cold heart. She’s never met a man she couldn’t walk away from.

Until him.

Bounty hunter Patrick McNamara has a scary reputation of his own, along with mysterious powers linked to his many tattoos. On the clock, they’re the perfect supernatural-crime-solving team. After hours, she’s ready to rock his world. But Patrick won’t settle for just her body, and Anna’s better at breaking homes than making them.

When the heir to the Southwest council goes missing, their combined skills are the best chance of averting a territory war. But the hunt will drag them through the most vulnerable parts of their broken pasts. Daring to risk her heart might be the first fight she loses, and the stakes have never been higher.

Because Patrick will sacrifice anything for her... even his life!

Southern Arcana Series:
Crux
Crossroads
A Peyton Family Christmas (free short story on Moira Rogers' website)
Zola's Pride (free short story on Moira Rogers' website)
Deadlock
Two Weddings (and One Near Funeral) (free short story on Moira Rogers' website)
Cipher
Impulse
Enigma

Visit Moira Rogers' website for more information

Review:
I love the Southern Arcana series but it was a long wait after reading Impulse for Enigma to be released and I was a bit nervous about picking it up in case I'd forgotten what was going on. Thankfully it was really easy to jump back into this world and seeing all the characters I love was like catching up with old friends.

Fans of the series already know how much Patrick has suffered and I've been desperately waiting to finally see him get his happy ending. Patrick feels a lot of guilt because he wasn't able to save his brother's life, ever since Ben's death Patrick's life has been on hold and all he's been interested in is getting revenge. Now he's a damaged shell of his former self, the tattoos that bind his powers have been nearly destroyed and his magic is now eating him from the inside out leaving him unstable and out of control. As much as Patrick is struggling with his guilt and grief there is one woman who makes him dream of more and there is something about Anna that he finds impossible to resist.

Anna has never had the support of a family who loved her, she has always been alone and she's never really learnt to rely on others. As much as she is attracted to Patrick she is terrified of getting hurt by giving into her feelings. She is happy for them to have a no strings attached affair but she can't bring herself to risk more than that. I have to admit I found Anna a little frustrating at times, Patrick is such a fab character and I was annoyed that she kept pushing him away but I could understand where she was coming from and I did enjoy seeing him prove her fears were unfounded.

This is a romance between two emotionally damaged characters and it's all the more rewarding seeing them grow stronger by each other's sides. Alongside the romance (and incredibly hot sex!) this series always contains plenty of action, a good dose of mystery and the camaraderie amongst a group of characters who know each other well. We get to catch up with old favourites and see how they're getting on which is always nice. I can't seem to find any information about further books in this series but I really hope this isn't the last we've seen of the Southern Arcana world and if Moira Rogers does write more they will definitely go straight to the top of my wish list!

Source: Received from the authors in exchange for an honest review.

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Review: Impulse - Moira Rogers

Her submission can heal him. His dominance can free her.

Sera Sinclaire is a New Orleans rarity: a submissive coyote trapped in a town overrun by dominant shapeshifters. Worse, she lacks the willpower to deny the alphas-in-shining-armor who need her soothing presence, even when their protectiveness threatens to crush her hard-won self-reliance.

The only shifter she doesn’t want to push away is Julio Mendoza, a wolf so dominant he’s earned a place on the Southeast council.

Julio doesn’t have the luxury of indulging in the vacation his psychic shrink insists he needs. He can’t turn his back on responsibilities he’s beginning to wish he’d never shouldered. When an obsessive ex endangers Sera, though, instinct drives him to get her out of town. Watching her come to life outside the city makes him feel like he’s finally done something right, and her touch ignites desire he doesn’t want to ignore.

But soon, lighthearted flirting becomes a dangerous game of seduction, where every day spent falling into each other is another day avoiding the truth. Sera’s ex isn’t the only one who’d disapprove of their relationship. There are wolves who would kill to get Sera out of Julio’s life—starting with his own blood kin.

Warning: Contains endless summer road trips, family drama, redneck werewolves, sexual power games and a taboo love affair between a submissive coyote who’s among the last of her kind and a dominant wolf who loves his heroine’s ass. Literally.

Southern Arcana Series:
Crux
Crossroads
A Peyton Family Christmas (free short story on Moira Rogers' website)
Zola's Pride (free short story on Moira Rogers' website)
Deadlock
Two Weddings (and One Near Funeral) (free short story on Moira Rogers' website)
Cipher
Impulse
Enigma

Visit Moira Rogers' website for more information

Review:
I am a huge fan of the Southern Arcana series, in fact I love pretty much everything that the awesome duo behind the name Moira Rogers write so of course I was excited to get my hands on Impulse. I have to say I think this was my favourite instalment to the series so far - I definitely have a new favourite couple in Julio and Sera!

As a submissive coyote shifter Sera has the ability to sooth the dominant alpha werewolves in her life. Just spending time with her calms them and she instinctively wants to do their bidding even when it goes against her own wishes. Having escaped her dominant and abusive ex husband the last thing she wants is to let someone else have control over her future, she is determined to be independent and stand on her own two (or four!) feet for once. Although she longs for the freedom to make her own choices deep down she loves her submissive side, she is just frightened of having her trust abused again by letting the wrong person into her life and into her heart.

Julio is an extremely dominant and sexy alpha werewolf who is strong enough to have become a member of the Southeast council. It has been 13 months since the torture he suffered when trying to protect his friends in the last book and he is still trying to deal with the emotional effects that has had on him. I absolutely fell for Julio, he pushed all the right buttons for me and I thought he and Sera were perfect together. I loved the way their personalities complimented each other, I loved that although Julio wanted to protect Sera he also wanted to give her the confidence to achieve her dreams and I particularly loved the fact that they're both just a little bit kinky!

One of my favourite quotes from the book:
"You're a dirty bastard" "Are you complaining?" "No"

I have to confess that I wouldn't be complaining either if I was Sera - she is one lucky, lucky coyote! The tag line from the story "Her submission can heal him. His dominance can free her" sums up their relationship perfectly.

It was also great to have a chance to catch up with some of the other characters from the series and see how they are getting on now. There are also some really interesting developments with the Southeastern council and the Conclave that are going to have some huge knock on effects in future books. My only disappointment with this series is that I now have to wait again for the next instalment - I just wish I could have a new book every month! If you're new to the series then I would highly recommend reading them in order starting with Crux - this is one of my favourite paranormal romance series and one I think everyone should be reading. Fans of the series are just going to love Impulse!

Source: Received from the authors in exchange for an honest review.

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Review: Archer's Lady - Moira Rogers

She's looking for redemption. He doesn't believe in it.

Accused of betraying the Bloodhound Guild, Archer's only chance to regain the trust of his fellow hounds is to earn it--one dangerous job at a time. Crystal Springs may be the worst yet. The town has been deserted by all but the poor and the desperate, yet the vampires stalking the edges of the settlement haven't closed in for the kill. Question is, why?

Grace Linwood, professional liar, has been hiding under the guise of a border schoolteacher for so long, she's almost fallen for her own con. The frontier was supposed to be her chance at a respectable life, but now the cowardly part of her wants to flee. When Archer catches her considering a run for safety, she knows it's only a matter of time before he sees through her charade.

They become reluctant allies in the quest to uncover the mysteries of Crystal Springs, but every unravelled knot ties them closer together. They both know their pasts are too shattered to hope for a future--until their investigation uncovers a secret. One that could make betraying the Guild their only path to redemption.

Warning: Contains a partly reformed con-artist heroine with a bruised heart and a mostly retired bank-robbing hero with a weary soul. Also included: vampire schemes, mad scientist plots, an alarming amount of dirty talk and some borderline-criminal bedroom antics in an alternate Wild West.

Bloodhounds Series:
Wilder's Mate (Novella)
Merrick's Destiny (Short Story)
Hunter's Prey (Novella)
Archer's Lady (Novella)
Diana's Hound (Novella) (April 2013)

Visit Moira Rogers' website for more information

Review:
Archer was the Bloodhound who was forced to change Hunter and since their rescue from the vampires that held them prisoner he has been considered a traitor to the guild. He is working hard to try and regain the trust of his fellow Bloodhounds but it is a slow process - especially when he is keeping secrets from them. Sent to Crystal Springs to help rid them of a vampire problem, Archer faces his most dangerous job yet - there are hardly any survivors and the number of vampires and ghouls in the area is unknown.

Grace moved to Crystal Springs for a fresh start, wanting to leave her past behind her she took the job of school teacher and has tried to become a respectable lady. Archer brings out her wilder side, she wants him from the moment she sees him but is afraid to loose her good reputation. As they work together to uncover the threat to Crystal Springs the new moon draws ever closer - and with it Grace's wish to fulfil Archer's every need grows stronger.

I'm a massive fan of the Bloodhounds series so couldn't wait to read Archer's Lady. The story is everything I've come to expect from this series and I'd highly recommend reading it. If you're new to the series then you'll want to read the books in order though so make sure you start with Wilder's Mate. Like all of the other Bloodhounds we have met Archer is definitely an alpha male - he is strong, fierce and dominant but also incredibly caring when it comes to Grace. He doesn't want her to be afraid of him and her needs are more important to him than his own. Grace has come to Crystal Springs seeking redemption for her past, she is far from innocent and has lied to and conned men for most of her life as a way to survive. More than anything she wanted to start a new and respectable life but she lives in fear of her past catching up with her.

Grace and Archer make a great couple. They both have shady pasts and recognise that it is something they have in common. What I loved most was how honest they both were, neither of them have shared their full history with anyone else but they refused to lie to themselves or each other. This couple scorch the pages and I loved the dirty talk and banter between them. Alongside the romance we have plenty of action, the town is under attack and it is up to Archer to find out why the vampires keep coming back even though there are hardly any people left. We find out some interesting things about the Guild and just how far they are prepared to go to cover their tracks. I also loved the addition of Diana - she adds an interesting dimension to the series and I can't wait to read her story (which is up next according to Moira Roger's website!).

If you have enjoyed the other stories in this series then Archer's Lady certainly won't disappoint so make sure you buy your copy today!

Source: Received from the author in exchange for an honest review

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Review: Hunter's Prey - Moira Rogers

Ophelia retired from life as a prostitute, but her new position is even more complicated. Managing the bloodhound manor in Iron Creek is difficult and time-consuming, a job she enjoys less with each passing day. Then there's her inconvenient attraction to Hunter. The newly turned hound seems eager to enjoy her company, but wary of anything more intimate.

Having survived the violence of his first full moon out of a cage, Hunter isn't looking forward to his first new moon. Ophelia offers to be the woman who sates his needs during the three long days of sexual fury, but he can't abide the thought of hurting her in a state of mindless lust. Especially since she longs to settle into a respectable life, and his needs are anything but respectable.

Their mutual goal is simple: avoid entanglements. It's a solid plan, at least until a vampire drug lord and a couple of nosy Guild representatives force them to work together to defend their friends and everything they hold dear--including each other.

Warning: Contains a mostly feral, vampire-hunting hero and a tough survivor of a heroine whose retired-hooker heart is more steel than gold. Also included: dangerous frontier intrigue, fancy brothels, mad-scientist weapons and a good dose of wicked loving in an alternate Wild West.

Bloodhounds Series:
Wilder's Mate (Novella)
Merrick's Destiny (Short Story)
Hunter's Prey (Novella)
Archer's Lady (Novella)
Diana's Hound (Novella) (2013)

Visit Moira Rogers' website for more information

Review:
Hunter was turned into a Bloodhound against his will and kept prisoner by those who made him.  Rescued by Wilder and Satira he is now facing his first new moon out of a cage and he is dreading the urges that it will bring.  There is only one woman he is interested in but he hates the idea of not being in control and worries that he might hurt her.  Ophelia is a retired prostitute who has taken over running the home the bloodhounds live in.  She has plenty of experience with Bloodhounds in the throws of new moon lust but her offer to help Hunter through is about more than that.  She is drawn to him like no other but doesn't know if there can be a future between them - especially when he seems to push her away at every opportunity.

Ophelia hasn't had an easy life and was forced into prostitution to survive but she has no shame over her past, as a practical woman she knows she just did what she had to do and she won't let anyone make her feel bad about that.  Now that she has retired she has accepted a job from her best friend Satira running the bloodhound household but she is finding it hard to deal with the constant demands.  All she really wants is some peace but she doesn't want to let her friend down by leaving her in the lurch.

Hunter was born to a wealthy family but hadn't made much of his life before he was taken prisoner.  He is struggling now to reconcile the person he was before with the monster he believes he has been changed into.  He hates the way he feels now and loathes the idea of not being 100% in control of his actions when the moon calls to his Bloodhound side.  I felt that Hunter was the most gentlemanly of the Bloodhounds we've met so far but that all changes when the new moon brings out his wilder side.  He was surprisingly dominant in the bedroom but you won't hear Ophelia complaining because she enjoys every second of it!  I loved the fact that he always treated Ophelia with respect and never once made an issue of her past, he wanted to court her properly and win her heart.  I thought the pair of them were a great match and I loved the way that Ophelia helps Hunter to accept the person he has become.

Alongside the romance it was great to get to see Wilder and Satira and find out how they are doing.  We get to see more of Archer which has me extra excited about reading his story when it comes out later this year.  We see some of the after effects of the changes forced on Nate in the first book and how he is struggling to accept his new condition - I really hope we're going to see more of his transition later.  We are introduced to a couple of new Bloodhounds who have been sent by the Guild to check up on Wilder and the others - possibly new heroes for future books (fingers crossed!)?  There are also some great action scenes as Hunter and the others investigate an influx of drugs into their border town - could the vampires be behind it all and if so why?  Moira Rogers can certainly pack a lot into a novella!  If you haven't started this series yet then I'd highly recommend starting with Wilder's Mate and if you enjoy that one you'll love Hunter's Prey even more.  I can't wait for Archer's Lady to release in July!

Source: Received from the author in exchange for an honest review

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Review: Merrick's Destiny - Moira Rogers

A short story set between Wilder's Mate and Hunter's Prey.

Merrick Wood is a wild man--literally. For six decades he's stalked the Rocky Mountains as a bloodhound, fighting a losing battle against the vampires who have taken over most of the American frontier. He's sure he's seen it all, until an airship crash leaves him caught behind enemy lines with a concussion and a mate he doesn't remember taking.

Paralee Colton is a wild woman. She enjoys her freedom and makes a good living flying over the Deadlands. Until, that is, bloodsuckers shoot down her ship, and she's forced to deal with an irritatingly attractive man who isn't a man at all.

Trapped together in the wilderness, Merrick and Paralee must fight to find a safe camp before the new moon drags Merrick into three days of sexual madness. But as enticing as Paralee finds the bloodhound, she doesn't realize the stakes of their courtship game.

Getting out of the Deadlands is only half of Merrick's battle for survival. If he can't convince Paralee to stay with him, he'll follow the footsteps of every bloodhound who's ever lost a mate--straight into the grave.

Bloodhounds Series:
Wilder's Mate (Novella)
Merrick's Destiny (Short Story)
Hunter's Prey (Novella)
Archer's Lady (Novella)
Diana's Hound (Novella) (2013)


Visit Moira Rogers' website for more information

Review:
Merrick's Destiny is a short story set just after Wilder's Mate, the first book in Moira Roger's Bloodhounds series.  It is an exclusive story only available from All Romance Ebooks but can be downloaded in various formats for whichever ereader you have.  Although the story is officially numbered 1.5 in the series it works well as a stand alone and could be a great way to try out the series to see if you like it.  I find it is hard to classify the Bloodhounds stories as they are all paranormal romances with a steampunk and wild west feel to them.

After Paralee's airship crashes in the Deadlands she and Merrick are the only survivors and must work together to get back to safety.  When Merrick comes around he can remember none of the lead up to the crash, the only thing he knows is that Paralee is his mate which comes as quite a shock considering he has spent decades alone.  What he can't understand is why he hasn't claimed her yet but he is determined to do just that - once he gets them safely away from the Deadlands and the vampires who will start hunting them as soon as it gets dark.

I'm always impressed by how much Moira Rogers can fit into a short story, they always manage to get me to connect with the characters no matter how low the page count is.  Merrick is a great hero, I have to admit I wasn't a big fan of this cover compared to others in the series but now having "met" Merrick I have to say it fits him perfectly.  He is tough and a little rough around the edges but he has a good heart and wants to protect Paralee.  He doesn't want to force her into accepting the mating bond - especially when she doesn't understand the full long term consequences.  I love the fact that Paralee is an independent woman who is capable of looking after herself, she knows what she wants and is prepared to work hard for it.  She is wary of getting too close to Merrick and losing her independence but she doesn't try to fight the attraction between them - she knows she wants him and has every intention of having him.

I really enjoyed finding out more about the Bloodhounds and their history and loved spending time in the world Moira Rogers has created.  This is a series I can't wait to continue (my review of Hunter's Prey will be posted later today) and it's one I'd highly recommend to fans of paranormal romance and steampunk.  If you like your stories scorching hot then you don't want to miss Merrick's Destiny!

Source: Purchased

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Series Review: Last Call Short Stories - Moira Rogers

Kamikaze:

Zoe Bennett is an inexperienced werewolf in the grip of her mating cycle. With no pack and no mate, Zoe must brave the supernatural crowds of Last Call, the bar where your drink order tells everyone what you need.

Kamikaze: Werewolf in heat, looking for a temporary mate

The chase is on, and security specialist Connor O'Malley intends to win, if only because the sweet young woman at the bar looks unprepared for what the night might bring, in and out of the bedroom. Little does he know that, when he catches her, he may not be satisfied being just a temporary mate.

Hurricane:

Artist and witch Fiona Logan hasn't had an orgasm since a bitter ex cursed her five years ago. Whenever she gets aroused, bad things happen. Now, she's come to Last Call in hopes of gaining an audience with--and help from--its owner, a powerful wizard named Benito D'Cruze. If anyone can break the curse, it's him. And if he won't come downstairs to meet with her, she'll bump and grind until his bar caves in from the backlash.

Hurricane: Contents under magical pressure. Experience required.

Ben doesn't get involved with patrons....not even the hot, sexually frustrated ones. But when a lush looking blonde threatens to wreck his bar with her curse and her need, he decides it's time to take matters--and her--into his own hands. After all, even if he can't break the curse, he can certainly ease her frustration. And what powerful wizard doesn't love a challenge?

Tequila Sunrise:

Werewolf Evelyn Smith loves her boyfriend, Kieran. Some people find it odd that an alpha female would choose a weaker mate, but Evelyn is willing to ignore her occasional cravings for submission when the reward is a fulfilling life with a man who loves her.

Kieran Rhys doesn't mind the mocking jibes of his pack, but knowing the woman he loves has needs he can't meet drives him crazy. After months of coaxing, he's finally convinced Evelyn to accompany him to Last Call. If he can't give his lover what she needs, he'll find someone to help him.

Tequila Sunrise: Looking for domination.

Unrequited love has been hard on Zack Elliott. Even if the object of his desire returned his feelings, she's a fragile human whose body couldn't withstand the force of his needs. Evelyn and Kieran seem like the perfect solution, especially when he realizes the one thing they need is the one thing he's been holding back for far too long-absolute domination.

Virgin Daiquiri:

Caitlin Carlson, the only non-witch in the powerful Dumitrescu line, needs to lose her virginity, and fast. A family legend about a pure soul with prophetic visions has put her first in line for a good, old-fashioned sacrifice, and visiting Last Call seems like the perfect way to head off her one-way trip to the altar. Buy a drink, go upstairs, have sex. Simple.

Virgin Daiquiri: Looking for a first lover.

Being a demon isn't as easy as it used to be, especially with the dwindling number of corruptible souls in the 21st century. Luckily for Leofric, he's never been particularly concerned with corrupting enough innocents to earn a promotion off of the mortal plane. But when a virgin wanders into Last Call and stirs up competition among the younger demons, Leo finds himself tempted to rethink his stance on mixing a demon's business with a woman's pleasure.

Last Call Series:
Kamikaze (Short Story)
Hurricane (Short Story)
Tequila Sunrise (Short Story)
Virgin Daiquiri (Short Story)

Visit Moira Rogers' website for more information

Series Review:
The Last Call series by Moira Rogers is a fab collection of steamy, erotic short stories that are perfect when you're looking for a quick read. The series doesn't need to be read in order as the only connection between them is the location they take place in and there is no character cross over (apart from the bar tender) but I'd recommend reading them all anyway.

Considering how short the stories are (they're around 35 pages each) I'm impressed with the connection that the Moira Rogers is able to build between each couple. In Kamikaze I really enjoyed the banter between Zoe and hunky geek Connor (I do have a soft spot for a geek!), they make a really cute couple and I loved their wolf instincts. Hurricane focuses on cursed witch Fiona and wizard Ben as he tries to help her. These two are literally explosive between the sheets! Tequila Sunrise is all about instinct as alpha Zach teaches beta Kieran how to dominate his more powerful girlfriend Evelyn and in Virgin Daiquiri Caitlin needs the help of demon Leo to avoid becoming her family's sacrifice in their dark magic practises.

Each story is super hot, super sexy and has a fabulous hunky hero (or two!). They also have plenty of steam and a dash of romance. I think my favourite stories were Kamikaze and Hurricane but I enjoyed them all and would recommend them to erotic romance fans who are looking for a quick steamy read.

Source: I downloaded Kamikaze for free from All Romance Ebooks, this free download is still available at the time of writing this post but I'm not sure how long the promotion will last for.  I purchased copies of the other stories in the series.

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Review: Wilder's Mate - Moira Rogers

Wilder Harding is a bloodhound, created by the Guild to hunt down and kill vampires on America's frontier. His enhanced abilities come with a high price: on the full moon, he becomes capable of savagery beyond telling, while the new moon brings a sexual hunger that borders on madness.

Rescuing a weapons inventor from undead kidnappers is just another assignment, though one with an added complication--keeping his hands off the man's pretty young apprentice, who insists on tagging along.

At odds with polite society, Satira's only constant has been the aging weapons inventor who treats her like a daughter. She isn't going to trust Wilder with Nathaniel's life, not when the Guild might decide the old man isn't worth saving. Besides, if there's one thing she's learned, it's that brains are more important than brawn.

As the search stretches far longer than Wilder planned, he finds himself fighting against time. If Satira is still at his side when the new moon comes, nothing will stop him from claiming her. Worse, she seems all too willing. If their passion unlocks the beast inside, no one will be safe. Not even the man they're fighting to save.

Warning: This book contains a crude, gun-slinging, vampire-hunting hero who howls at the full moon and a smart, stubborn heroine who invents mad-scientist weapons. Also included: wild frontier adventures, brothels, danger, betrayal and a good dose of wicked loving in an alternate Wild West.

Bloodhounds Series:
Wilder's Mate (Novella)
Merrick's Destiny (Short Story)
Hunter's Prey (Novella)
Archer's Lady (Novella)

Diana's Hound (Novella) (2013)


Visit Moira Rogers' website for more information

Review:
Satira works as an apprentice to weapons inventor Nathaniel, she enjoys her job and her boss is more like a father to her.  When Nathaniel goes missing she is worried for his safety and also for her future, women aren't usually allowed to become inventors and without Nathaniel's support she isn't sure how she will survive alone.  The Guild that Nathaniel works for are worried that the technology he has been working on could end up in the hands of their enemies so they send Bloodhound Wilder to search for him.  Wilder's Bloodhound abilities make him ideal for tracking down and fighting vampires but Satira can't trust him to bring Nathaniel home and insists on going with him.  Can they track down Nathaniel and get him home safely?

I haven't come across a story by Moira Rogers that I haven't enjoyed so I was really looking forward to reading Wilder's Mate.  I'm not quite sure what category to put the story in - it's definitely a paranormal romance with a hint of steampunk but it also has an old fashioned western feel to it despite the fact that it is set in the future - but no matter what genre you call it the story is fab. 

If you're looking for a dirty talking pure alpha hero then Wilder is your man and I absolutely loved him.  Strong, sexy and protective Wilder manages to stay on the hot side of alpha without stepping into overbearing and offensive territory.  In other words he's the perfect hero that will make you weak at the knees!  Satira is a great match for him, she is strong, intelligent and quite a tomboy but she isn't afraid of her femininity and although she is independent she knows her limits and is prepared to ask for help when she needs it.  As a couple they work well together, I loved the banter between them and their sexual chemistry is off the charts.

The plot is fast paced and introduces the world well, we aren't overwhelmed with information and Moira Rogers leaves us wanting more.  I still have questions about both the abilities of the Bloodhounds and the world they are living in and am looking forward to discovering more as the series continues.  We have been introduced to some of the characters who will appear in the next few stories and I can't wait to get to know them better.  I definitely recommend the story to fans of paranormal romance, steampunk or the wild west and if you like all of those genres you'll love Wilder's Mate.

Source: Received from the author in exchange for an honest review

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Review: Cipher - Moira Rogers

Fourteen months ago, Kat Gabriel's life changed forever when she used her empathy as a weapon. Now she can't escape the weight of those deaths--or the loss of the easy friendship she and Andrew once shared. Obsessed with her mother's violent past, Kat is determined to learn the truth of her inner-darkness by understanding her legacy.

Since the attack that turned him into a wolf, Andrew Callaghan has done everything possible to make himself stronger. More capable of protecting Kat--both from the supernatural world that forced her to kill, and from their own volatile connection. Pushing her away hurt them both, but he's finally made himself into the protector she needs.

As Kat's quest leads her into the darkest underbelly of the psychic world, Andrew is determined to be at her side. But every step forward reopens old emotional wounds and shakes their control. For a dangerous alpha and a deadly psychic, distraction could be fatal--especially when the greatest threat they pose is to each other.

Southern Arcana Series:
Crux
Crossroads
A Peyton Family Christmas (free short story on Moira Rogers' website)
Zola's Pride (free short story on Moira Rogers' website)
Deadlock
Two Weddings (and One Near Funeral) (free short story on Moira Rogers' website)
Cipher
Impulse
Enigma

Visit Moira Rogers' website for more information

Review:
Fourteen months ago Kat and Andrew were on the verge of taking the first step towards starting a relationship but that all changed one night after a horrific attack.  The attack saw Andrew turned into a werewolf and Kat devastated by the consequences of using her psychic abilities to kill their attackers.  Since that moment Andrew has pushed Kat away, terrified of hurting her because he doesn't have full control over his wolf.  Kat was heartbroken by Andrew's rejection and blames herself for the fact he was tuned.  Can they work through their guilt and anger to find a way to be together?

I absolutely love the Southern Arcana series and it feels like I've been waiting forever to read Kat and Andrew's story.  We have seen this couple throughout the series right from the attack to the way they have skirted around each other ever since so I was really excited that they were finally getting their chance at a happy ending.  There has been a lot of guilt and rejection between them so I knew they wouldn't have an easy journey but we've know all along how much they both care for each other.  Andrew may have been the one to push Kat away but he did it because he cares so much and his actions hurt him just as much as they hurt her.

Andrew may not have been born a shapeshifter but his instincts are all alpha and he is very protective of those he cares about.  I really appreciated the fact that he tried not to be a bossy, controlling alpha because he knows Kat has had enough enough of that last her a lifetime.  It wasn't always easy for him to go against his instincts but just the fact that he was willing to try showed how much he cares for her.  Kat was also changed after the attack, she still has nightmares over killing their attackers and she feels that it was her fault that Andrew was changed into a wolf.  She is still that geeky girl we first met but she has also grown stronger and more sure of herself since that night.  I loved the chemistry between the two of them and Kat's empathic abilities certainly added an interesting dimension to their foreplay - their story is smoking!

I have to admit I wasn't expecting the direction this story took, I thought there would be more about the werewolf politics (especially after the ending of Deadlock!) so was surprised to find it was more about Kat's investigation into the psychic cult her mother was a member of.  However, I really enjoyed the change in direction and it worked well as a backdrop for the development of Kat and Andrew's relationship.  We did still find out a little more about what is going on in the werewolf hierarchy and I'm sure we'll see even more in the next installment.

Cipher was a great installment to the series and I'm really looking forward to reading Impulse when it comes out later this year.  Although this story could be read as a stand alone I would highly recommend reading the series in order.  This really is a great series and one I have been really enjoying!

Source: Won in a Twitter giveaway hosted by the author

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Quick Review: Two Weddings (and One Near Funeral) - Moira Rogers

A free Southern Arcana story set between Deadlock and Cipher.

In this short story set between books three & four of the Southern Arcana series, you get two weddings for the price of one. Find out how Mackenzie and Jackson ended up enjoying a honeymoon in Vegas--and how bad Alec and Carmen's wedding had to be to drive them there.

This story is provided as a free read for fans of the series, and may contain spoilers for books 1-3 of the Southern Arcana series, and confusion for anyone not familiar with the characters involved. Read with caution!

This story can be downloaded for free on Moira Rogers' website click here for more details

Southern Arcana Series:
Crux
Crossroads
A Peyton Family Christmas (free short story on Moira Rogers' website)
Zola's Pride (free short story on Moira Rogers' website)
Deadlock
Two Weddings (and One Near Funeral) (free short story on Moira Rogers' website)
Cipher
Impulse
Enigma

Visit Moira Rogers' website for more information

Review:
Two Weddings (and One Near Funeral) is a free short story that is set between the 3rd and 4th books in the Southern Arcana series (Deadlock & Cipher).  The story does contain spoilers for previous books in the series so I would recommend reading as far as Deadlock before picking it up.

We get to see the madness that are the preparations for Carmen and Alec's wedding and just how much the idea of a big society wedding scares the life out of Mackenzie.  I love getting to revisit couples after their books so we can see how they are doing now they've got their happy ending and this was no exception.  Two Weddings (and One Near Funeral) is a cute, fun read that is perfect for when you only have a few minutes spare and it made me immediately want to get started on Cipher. 

The Southern Arcana series is one of my favourites and I really think that the little extras Moira Rogers offer their fans just add to the reading experience.  If you're a fan of the series you'll definitely enjoy this quick read and if you haven't started it yet I'd highly recommend picking up a copy of Crux.

Source: Downloaded for free from Moira Rogers' website

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Review: Winter Wishes - Anthology

A Twist on Tradition

A woman has the Christmas Eve from Hell. Two cat shifters play naughty games. And a witch brings out the beast inside the man. The magic of the season takes on a whole new meaning in these three fantastic—and festive—novellas from some of the best voices in paranormal romance.

Anthology includes:
Tangled Tinsel by Vivian Arend
No Angel by Vivi Andrews
Freeze Line by Moira Rogers

Stories also available for purchase separately.

For more information about any of these authors click on their names below to visit their websites:
Vivi Andrews
Vivian Arend
Moira Rogers

I'm a big fan of Vivian Arend and Moira Rogers and I was looking for a holiday read so the Winter Wishes anthology seemed perfect.  I really enjoyed the anthology and would highly recommend it to paranormal romance fans looking to get in the Christmas spirit.

Tangled Tinsel by Vivian Arend

She's the cat's meow, and he's ready to pounce!

Five miles of leather-clad leg is all it takes to lure Kyle Branegan out from his hidden lifestyle as part of the Cougar Corp, a secret branch of the Shifter Enforcer League. He's hoping for a night of fun and frolic, cat-style, no strings attached. With a sultry swing of her hips, Eloise Scott tangles him up in her ball of tricks, and just when he thinks he's about to get lucky, she cuffs him—naked—to her bed.

An undercover cop in the human police force, El's been given a top-secret mission to keep the big cat under her paw until he's needed to testify in court. Her decision to take him home for a quiet Christmas in her sleepy hometown turns out to be far more interesting than she expected. Her parents are suddenly rich, her old boyfriend is sniffing around and all six-feet-plus of sexy cougar male is sleeping in her bed.

And that's before they announce their fake engagement...

Review:
Kyle works undercover for a secret organisation who police shape shifters, making sure any of their less acceptable behaviour is kept out of the public eye.  Even though he should have his mind on his latest job as soon as he spots fellow cougar shifter Eloise he can't resist taking a break to pursue her.  As it turns out El is actually an undercover police officer and her latest mission is to monitor Kyle and make sure he is available when he is needed at an upcoming trial.  Deciding to take him home with her to visit her eccentric family for the holidays leads to all sorts of unexpected complications for the pair of them.

I'm a massive fan of Vivian Arend's Granite Lake Wolves series but I have to say I think I might like her cougar shifters even better!  I'm really hoping that Tangled Tinsel is going to be the first story in a new series as I think there is plenty of scope for more fun stories with Kyle and El at the lead.  Kyle also has two brothers so the possibilities are endless.  I loved this novella from the moment I picked it up, full of humour it had me laughing out loud several times while I was reading.  The main characters are both fab, the chemistry is scorching hot and I loved the way their relationship develops throughout the story.  The Christmas scenes with El's family make it a perfect holiday read and I'm sure I'll be picking up this story again next year.

No Angel by Vivi Andrews

When Sasha's boyfriend, Jay, is sucked through a fiery vortex to Hell, an angel reveals that Sasha's been chosen as the Champion of Virtue in the battle for his immortal soul. As a perennial offender on Santa's naughty list, Sasha can't believe she's anyone's idea of a girl fighting on the side of the angels. But if she doesn't save Jay, he'll be stuck in Hell forever!

Jay—aka Jevroth—isn't surprised to find himself back in Hell. His visa to visit the mortal plane expired three months ago, but to steal more time with Sasha he's been ignoring his mother's demands that he come home to spend time with his new stepfather: Lucifer.

Sasha has until dawn on the twenty-fifth of December to fight the Legions of Hell and rescue Jay, or be trapped there for eternity herself. But now she must decide if the lying son-of-a-demon is even worth saving...

Review:
When Sasha's boyfriend refuses to spend Christmas with her family and tells her that they "need to talk" she assumes the worst and thinks she is about to be dumped on Christmas eve.  But before Jay can tell her his big secret she gets to witness as he is sucked into hell.  Sasha is given the option of entering hell to try and rescue him but if she fails she will find herself trapped there with him.  When she discovers his secret she'll have to decide if she even wants to save him after all the lies he has told her.

This is the first story I've read by Vivi Andrews and although it wasn't my favourite story in the Winter Wishes anthology I liked it enough to check out more of her work in the future.  I really liked Jay's character, I enjoyed the scenes in hell with him and his family - his mother really is a piece of work but I was surprised to find myself quite liking his step dad.  I didn't really like Sasha all that much though, she was constantly complaining that Jay was too good for her and that she preferred bad boys but if that was the case I couldn't see why she even wanted to be with him in the first place.  It made it difficult to believe in their relationship, although I did see more of a connection between them towards the end of the book once she has discovered his secret.  I also started to like Sasha a lot more when she stepped up to fight the demons and rescue her man.  No Angel has humour, action and was a fun quick read.

Freeze Line by Moira Rogers

She can't survive in his world; he can't stay sane in hers

A twenty-first century ice age dulls the magic that emanates from the earth. Shane Sullivan is a lone wolf above the freeze line. He has no desire to join the packs that range closer to the border, where feral instincts can turn a man into a monster. Not until the winter solstice, when he stumbles across a dying witch who needs his help to get back to her people—and her magic—in the south.

Nadia is a powerful woman in her own world, but she's been drained by her escape from captivity in a northern lab. She knows it's foolhardy to trust a werewolf, but he's her only chance to survive the vast white wilderness. The farther south they travel, the harder it is for Shane to keep the beast within under control, and as their mutual attraction intensifies, Nadia's no longer sure she wants him to.

Review:
An ice age has split the world in two, above the freeze line the cold has dulled the earth's magic making it a safer place for werewolf Shane to live.  The last thing he wants is the magic calling to his animal nature.  Nadia is a witch who needs to be able to connect to the magic to survive, she was kidnapped and forced above the freeze line so that she was unable to protect herself using her magic.  She may have escaped but she needs to find a way home and restore her energy levels or she won't survive.  When Shane finds Nadia by the side of the road and discovers what has happened to her he offers to help get her back to the other side of the freeze line.  As they approach their destination Nadia becomes stronger but Shane's wild side gets closer to the surface, can they fight the attraction that is growing between them?  Do they even want to?

I was already a big fan of Moira Rogers so it was no surprise to me that I loved Freeze Line.  With the apocalyptic setting this story is darker than the other novellas in the Winter Wishes anthology but I really enjoyed the world building and would happily read more stories in this world if it becomes a series.  Shane and Nadia are both great characters and I love the way their relationship develops as the get to know each other.  This was a sweet and sexy romance and one I'd definitely recommend.

Source: Received from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

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