Inside Out by Lauren Dane  Paperback: 320 pages Publisher: Berkley Trade Available: November 2, 2010 Genre: Contemporary Erotic Romance Source: Author

Ella Tipton is a survivor. In the wake of an attack that left her nearly dead, she’s spent each day putting her life back together. Once vibrant and outgoing, she’s needed to reclaim the best parts of who she was while retaining the hard won lessons. There hasn’t been room for any romantic entanglements, even if she were ready. Still, it didn’t mean she had to stop sneaking looks at Mister Tall, Dark and Tattooed himself.

Security professional Andrew Copeland isn’t quite sure when his jones for the lovely and decidedly skittish Ella developed. He’s known her for years, has watched her triumph over the pain she’d been dealt. Cope is no stranger to women, but he knows the nervous flush he gets every time he talks to her is different than any attraction he’s had in the past. Determined to get Ella to let him in, Andy does the one thing he can think of to get close: he offers her hands-on training in self-defense.

While Ella’s sure he’s just being nice, the prospect of being able to touch him and gain the tools to push away the last vestiges of her fear is more than she can resist. Soon enough, Cope shows Ella his feelings are far more than friendly and re-ignites something deep inside her. Before long desire and love turn them both inside out.

Reviewed by: Sophia (FV) 

Ella Tipton, manager of a small café owned by Erin from the previous Brown Sibling books, has been through hell and back.  She was attacked and nearly killed by her ex-husband and has spent the last several years rebuilding her life and getting back on her feet.  She’s a tough lady but still suffers from the fallout of the attack now and then.  Although romance is not on the menu she has a crush on Andrew Copeland, longtime friend to the Brown family.  He stops by the café often and aside from some light flirting their friendship is pretty casual.  But that doesn’t stop Ella from fantasizing now and then.

Andrew Copeland has had his share of women.  They’ve come and gone through the years but he’s had a special attraction to Ella for a long time.  But the time has just never been right to make a move.  Ella has been through a lot of personal trauma and so he’s kept his distance romantically, only offering friendship and support when he can.  He’s watched her grow and he knows she’s something special.  When he offers to teach her some self defense techniques Ella accepts.  Spending time getting physical sends their mutual attraction into overdrive and bumps their relationship up to a whole new level.

Although neither Cope (Andrew) or Ella is related to the Browns they are both are still considered family and treated with the love and care the Browns are known for.  Cope is related to the family by marriage, his brother Ben is married to Erin Brown.  Ella is a long-time friend to Erin and is the manager of her café.  While Ella and Cope share a mutual attraction to each other they are both a little unsure of how or if their relationship should move forward.  They’ve been friends for so long and there is a little awkwardness as they move toward a more romantic relationship.  They may be unsure, but their circle of friends and family see it clear as day, these two belong to each other. 

Cope has a reputation as being a ladies man but he is always quick to point out that he’s not a jerk who treats women badly.  Although he’s never settled down and committed, he’s still a decent guy and respectful of the women he’s been with.  But Ella moves something in him and he soon realizes he’s ready to leave that lifestyle behind.  With a lot of heart to heart with his buddies, Cope decides Ella is the one. 

Ella is one of the cutest heroines from this series.  She a tough survivor but her exterior is fun and cute and I really liked her.  Even though she’s has a lot to deal with from her past and still suffers from panic attacks ,she’s not over dramatic or whiney.  On the other hand she doesn’t overdo the bravado either.  She’s dealing with life, family issues and is falling in love with a man she has crushed on for years.  She fits in perfectly with the Brown family circle of friends and things are looking up for her.

One of the things I noticed as this series has progressed is how the gentlemen have evolved.  They’ve always been good strong characters to love, but in this book we see them spending lots of bonding time together having deep and meaningful relationship talks.  As they have one by one fallen in love and settled down, they’ve learned a few things about relationships and are willing to share their insight with their friends.  The big, tough tattooed hotties don’t mind sharing a few beers and getting mushy now and again. 

What I like about this series is the constant presence of the protagonists from previous books.  Lauren Dane doesn’t give them a happily ever after then send them on their way.  She has created a big family and keeps the characters we love present and accounted for with each book.  While she gives us wonderful new romances with each installment, she also allows the reader to be a part of the relationship ups and downs after the happily ever after.  Inside Out is no exception and we get a little peek into Brody and Elise’s life as they plan their wedding.  We also get some time with Ben, Erin and Todd as Erin nears the end of her pregnancy.  There was a some turbulence in this sub-plot and I think it overshadowed Cope and Ella’s story at times, but it was nice to see the Brown family do what they do best and come together as a family in hard times. 

In the previous books we saw some pretty intense external conflict.  However with Inside Out the story is mainly focused on the developing romantic relationship between Ella and Cope.  They both have some personal issues to deal with, but the obstacles that need to be overcome are not as threatening as in the previous books.  There are some familial problems for Cope and Ben, and hopefully we’ll see those conflicts resolved in the future. 

Inside Out is another great installment in the Brown Siblings series.  Lauren Dane writes good solid characters that face life head on, love big, and put a fresh shine on the concept of friends and family in the romance genre.  I enjoyed watching Cope and Ella fall in love with the support of the friends and family they love. 

Favorite Quote:

I know he’s a nice guy, but he comes in bad boy wrapping paper.

Other books in the series:

• Laid Bare
• Coming Undone

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Purchase Links: Amazon || Book Depository

Second Chances by Lauren Dane  eBook Publisher: Carina Press Available: October 25th 2010 Genre: Contemporary Erotic Romance Source: NetGalley

Ten years ago, Rori Simon left town shy, unattractive and with zero self-esteem. Now she’s back, older, stronger and finally loving herself—and it shows. Hot men are soon knocking at her door, including Jude Callahan, the bad boy who starred in her teenage daydreams…and her adult fantasies.

Jude can’t believe the sexy, confident woman before him is actually Rori! She’s gotten under his skin like no other woman has…and brings out secret desires he can’t resist. He wants to dominate Rori with every fiber of his being. Wants to own her and pleasure her. To cherish her as he makes her his.

Rori discovers she likes being controlled. She also knows Jude is not a one-woman man. Everything changes when she meets Zach Helm. Edgy, sensual Zach knows just what she needs, and before long, she’s in love. Jude watches them together and wonders if he’s lost his chance forever…

Reviewed by: Sophia (FV)

Rori was awkward and overweight as a teen and suffered with self-esteem issues.  But she went off to college, saw the world and went through some emotional and physical changes over the years.  After a messy break up with her boyfriend, she has returned to her hometown and with a whole new outlook. Since the moment she’s arrived it seems she’s caught the eye of every available bachelor in town but there is one in particular she’s got her eye on.  Rori wants the town bad boy, Jude Callahan.  They were friends as kids but Rori had a crush on him back then and wouldn’t mind taking their friendship to a new level now that they’re adults.  Jude is not a one woman man though, and Rori is not interested in being one of many.

Jude finds just about everything about Rori attractive.  She’s all he can think about and there’s something about her that is different from his many other conquests.  He can see himself settling down with Rori, he wants her bad. But his old habits die hard and he has a hard time reconciling the idea of what it means to be in a committed relationship.  His bad behavior opens Rori’s eyes to the fact that she can’t change him—doesn’t want to change him. She then finds love in the arms of another man. 

I’ll start off saying right here, right now, Lauren Dane knows how to write a steamy story, no doubt about that.  For an erotic romance to work for me, there has to be good strong emotional connections between those engaging in the red hot steamy sex and Ms. Dane certainly knows how to deliver on that level as well.

Although Jude came off like a jerk at times I liked him. The emotional and sexual chemistry between him and Rori also worked for me. Jude is conflicted in his need for Rori and his inability to grow out of his bad boy tendencies and Rori, a former ugly duckling is realizing a life long fantasy in her new relationship with Jude.  Both seem a little overwhelmed by this new relationship and where it’s headed.  I really wanted them to communicate and work things out, but such as life, it was not meant to be and Rori moves on to find happiness with another.  However Jude knows he screwed up and he let the only woman he ever loved walk away. Now he must watch from afar as Rori finds happiness with another.

Rori moves on and falls head over heals in love with Zach who seems to be absolutely perfect for her.  Here is where I began to struggle with the story a bit.  Although we know Jude loves Rori and is struggling to accept that she has moved on, he becomes absent from the story for a long period of time, and I’ll be honest I missed him.  Zach and Rori have a budding relationship with no place in it for Jude, but I felt his absence unsettling since the relationship between Rori and Jude was left open on Jude’s part. Although I liked Rori and wanted her to find happiness, I just never bought into her relationship with Zach.  His character seemed flat not as developed as I hoped for. I never picked up on the emotional connection between them at all. 

Although I felt the eventual outcome of this book was obvious because of the title, Lauren Dane managed to take the expected and create a very emotional story that takes her characters on a journey of personal growth, tragedy and redemption.  I felt there were some flat spots along the way, however I loved how the friendship and romance played out between Jude and Rori.  Second Chances was an enjoyable read.

Favorite Quote:

“I want her. I don’t want her to love anyone else. I want her to love me.”

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Purchase link: Carina Press

Talk Dirty To Me  by Ginny Glass & Inez Kelley e-Book – Novella Publisher: Carina Press Available: July 19, 2010 Genre: Contemporary Erotic Romance

"Tell me what you want. Talk dirty to me."

Biologist Nora MacGregor is frantic when she loses her dissertation notes on female sexuality—and some very personal fantasies. Then a sinful stranger calls with a wicked proposition: if she talks dirty to him, he’ll return her notes, page by page. "James" allows Nora to explore her deepest desires and challenges her clinical ideas about sex. But James can’t give her the loving touches she finds in her budding relationship with Dr. Jarod Reed.

Jarod seized an opportune moment to fulfill his desire for Nora by becoming the mysterious James. While the anonymous, erotic phone sessions are unforgettable, Jarod longs to tell Nora he wants more than just talk. But how can he confess his deception without it costing him the chance to make their fantasies a reality?

Reviewed by: Sophia (FV) 

Dr. Jarod Reed finds his social life a little lacking with no real hope of it improving anytime soon.  That is until he becomes fascinated with Biologist Nora MacGregor from afar.  He watches her pass by his classroom twice a week on her way to the laundry.  When they literally bump into each other one day on campus the sparks fly.  But in the collision, Nora unknowingly drops her notes and tapes from her study on female sexuality which also contain some very personal information about herself.  Jarod plans to return the research material at some point but not before he takes a peek at it.  After reading Nora’s notes he becomes determined to seduce Nora over the phone by posing as someone else coaxing her to talk dirty to him in exchange for returning her research a few pages at a time.  However, due to Jarod’s deception, he inadvertently creates a pseudo love triangle where he is competing with himself for the affections of a woman he has come to care about a great deal.

Talk Dirty To Me is the second book in the Dirty Laundry series however it is not necessary to read the previous book in the series, this one stands alone nicely. It is co-written by Inez Kelley and Ginny Glass.  The title alone was enough to catch my attention as I do appreciate a bit a well written dirty talk in my erotic romance.  When it comes to dirty talk this novella certainly came though, however I have to admit I was unsettled at first.  The idea of a stranger phoning up, claiming to have something very personal that you want back desperately, then striking a deal where you must earn back your own property by way of erotic conversations seemed a little pervy and unnerved me a bit.  I assume that was supposed to be the appeal though; the freedom to let your hair down and perhaps explore a few fantasies verbally with someone you don’t know.  It took a while to get on board with Jarod’s actions as James, however the trouble he caused himself by creating competition for himself with no way to come clean without risking his relationship with Nora was comical in my twisted point of view. 

Jarod and Nora’s courtship is sweet and romantic whereas ‘James’ and Nora’s courtship is down and dirty.  Actually, Nora is a lucky girl having a sweet sexy man on her arm and a dirty little secret on the sly.  However it is inevitable that Jarod gets caught up in his own web and it was actually quite funny how it all played out.  I enjoyed Talk Dirty To Me for the smoking hot dirty talk, the sweet romance and the humor created by the duplicitous but likeable hero. I’ve already read Coming Clean by Inez Kelley and will be checking out Coin Operated by Ginny Glass soon. 

Favorite Quote:

“I promise it will feel good. Let me touch you, sweetheart. Tell me what you want.” He let his voice drop to a sensual growl. “Talk dirty to me, Nora.”

 

Other books in the series:

• Coming Clean by Inez Kelley
• Coin Operated by Ginny Glass

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Inez Kelley’s Website 

Purchase Link: Amazon

First Date  by Lynne Roberts e-Book: Short Story Publisher: The Wild Rose Press Genre: Erotic Romance Source: Author

The real estate market is about to heat up.

When Bret Jacob walks into Jill’s real estate office, she attempts to maintain a professional demeanor, but memories of accidental voyeurism in high school, years of what-if’s, and Bret’s drop-dead sexy grin only serve to ignite her fantasies.

Bret needs a farm for his growing landscape business. When he sees Jill Daniels’ picture in a real estate ad, he can’t believe his eyes: The shy girl from high school has blossomed into a desirable woman. Ten years ago, she didn’t stir his blood and drive away all rational thought; now, he’s fighting the urge to take her in his arms long enough to ask her on a first date.

Reviewed by: Sophia (FV)

Jill was a shy girl in high school and could only dream of dating Bret the sexy football hero.  Ten years later she is a successful real estate agent but she never has forgotten the night when she accidentally walked in on Bret in a compromising situation with a cheerleader.  The erotic images have stayed with her all these years and Bret has been the star of more than few of her naughty fantasies. 

Bret is in the market for some real estate and when he spots Jill’s picture in a local ad he immediately recognizes her as the shy girl from high school.  Only she’s not looking like the understated Jill Daniels he once knew.  Now she’s smoking hot and he’s ready to get reacquainted. 

First Date is a story I’m sure many people have probably fantasized about at one time or another.  A chance meeting with your high school crush who never loved you back; only now you’re smoking hot and he can’t take his eyes off you?  Come on, admit it, you’ve thought about it.  Jill gets a second chance at her high school crush only this time she has the upper hand.  Her every move is driving Bret wild and as he tries to work the up courage to ask her out on a first date the sexual tension between them continues to build. 

Although First Date is a short story it is well written and a very satisfying read.  Lynne Roberts creates a wonderfully erotic romance with characters that I liked and a believable situation that can only add fuel those high school crush fantasies that cross your mind now and then. *wink wink* 

Favorite Quote:

Bret fought the urge to take her by the wrists and walk her back against the wall.

 

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Purchase Link: Wild Rose Press

After Hours by Lynne Roberts e-Book: Short Story Publisher: The Wild Rose Press Genre: Erotic Romance Source: Author

Elle Simpson doesn’t deny that the new intern is sexy as hell but he’s also ten years her junior–and she doesn’t date men from the office. Of course, dating isn’t what comes to mind when David Nelson enters a room. When Elle’s boss assigns her to work an important account, she’s thrilled—until David volunteers to help. Working one on one with her desirable new assistant is bound to test the limits of her restraint.

Everything about Elle, from her professional savvy to her hot body, turns David on, but first he has to unravel her mixed signals. After a few late nights alone with Elle in the office, David is at the end of his tether. It was hard enough during the day; keeping his hands off her after hours is proving impossible.

Reviewed by: Sophia (FV)

Elle Simpson has strict rules about avoiding office romances and intern David Nelson is sexy beyond reason, ten years younger than her and is way off limits.  Too bad she can’t stop thinking about getting sweaty with David right on top of the desk, wall or floor with him right here, right now.  David is picking up on Elle’s vibes or so he thinks he is.  He’s very attracted to her, doesn’t mind the age difference and has no silly rules about office romance.  So when an opportunity to work more closely with Elle comes up, he’s all over it.  Now he just has to get her on that desk.

After Hours is a fun, sexy office romance laced with some fun, light humor.  I loved both David and Elle and could really see them in a relationship beyond their steamy office tryst.  David is the younger up and coming intern who finds just about everything about Elle attractive.  Elle is older than David and although it crosses her mind, she doesn’t get bogged down in self doubt.  Once she finally gets her head around this overwhelming attraction to David it’s no holds barred. 

Lynne Roberts does a good job in building sexual tension and characters that are fun and likeable in this short story.  I enjoyed this fun romance and I hope Ms. Roberts has more, longer works in progress.   

Favorite Quote:

David’s mouth curved in a slow, sexy smile. “Did you need anything else?” Did. She. Ever. You, on the floor, desk, or against the wall. I’m not picky. Close the door and find out.

 

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Purchase Link: Wild Rose Press

Hunger Undone by J.A. Saare e-Book Publisher: Amira Press Available: Oct. 1, 2010 Genre: Paranormal Romance

Three months ago, jaguar shifter Marshall Mackenzie met his mate. Sultry witch Mira Jones is beautiful, smart, and everything he wants — there is just one problem. Their introduction was orchestrated by his employer, which meant Marshall was forced to break Mira’s trust in order to uncover the secrets of a magical coven responsible for killing innocents. Mira fled from him when she learned the truth — both angry and afraid — but Marshall’s determined to teach the alluring female that while she can run from the hunger that now consumes her, she can never hide.

Reviewed by: Sophia (FV)

Quick Rundown: Mira Jones is a witch and on the run. She has taken a job as a stripper when sexy Marshall Mackenzie finally catches up with her and they have some unfinished business between them.  Mira is Marshall’s mate but when Marshall was forced to betray Mira in the interest of justice Mira hit the road before she had the full story.  Marshall is ready to claim his mate and make things right between them. 

 

First impression:   I felt as though I was arriving to a movie a little late but was able to catch on and get with the program with no trouble at all.  I settled right in and enjoyed.

 

The Hero: A Texas cowboy jaguar shifter?  Very sexy and very alpha.  Do they have jaguars in Texas?  I don’t know but I like cowboys and I loved Marshall. 

 

The Heroine: A witch on the run who is determined to avoid the hand that fate dealt her.  Not only is she avoiding Marshall but she’s got a badass warlock on her tail. 

 

What worked: Although this was a short story it felt fairly well rounded and had a nice conclusion.  I could feel Marshall’s need to claim his mate and make things right between them.  He was forceful yet a gentleman, and I really like that, it’s very sexy.  Of course I wanted more story, but that’s just a sign that I liked it. 

 

What didn’t work: At times the sex scene was a little too descriptive for me.  Although it was erotic, it felt like too much and sometimes I’d rather imagine certain things rather than read them.  Here is an example:

She could feel the hot gush of wetness that signaled her release and was too swept up in the moment to be embarrassed of the loud slurps that accompanied it.

Final conclusion: A short story that packs a very sexy punch.  If you’re looking for a very quick read that will warm you up in a hurry, grab this one, I think you’ll enjoy. 

 

Favorite Quote:

But I can promise you that the only big gun you’ll meet tonight”—he yanked her close, wrapped an arm around her waist, and pulled her against him, until they were hip to hip and she could feel the hard outline of his notable erection—“will be this one right here, darlin’.”

 

 

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Purchase Link: Amira Press 

J.A. Saare would like to give away an ebook copy of Hunger Undone and an ebook copy of A Kiss Before Dying.  Just leave a comment on this review and please indicate which book you’d like to win.  Open to all.  Open until Oct. 20, winner announced soon after.