The Hookup (Moonlight and Motor Oil #1) by Kristen Ashley @KristenAshley68 @InkSlingerPR

With each release, there's the promise of so much goodness to savor I can hardly contain my joy. Hearing there's a new series and I'm floating on cloud nine. Unsurprisingly, I loved everything about The Hookup as I devoured this read three times before writing my review. That's how remarkable this romance was ~ I was lured back into Matlock, Kentucky, relishing every moment, with just as much excitement as my first time. With all the feels and written in the classic KA descriptive world-building style, Eliza and Johnny's journey is now one of my all-time favorites.   KA is not only the Queen of all Alphas but also the master of the second-chance-at-love romances such as The Hookup. The synopsis may make some leery, giving the impression that this may be a love-triangle or a 'settling for second best' type of scenario. Let me dispel those notions to say that this is not the case AT ALL. Johnny was a broken man, unwilling to love again, after losing a girl that was perceived to be "THE ONE." The beauty of this story is his healing with a message of hope; true love can be found again through the gentle care of the right devoted woman. This is Johnny and Izzy's story and a true Kristen Ashley fairytale ~ complete with a sincere hero who's all about loving, protecting and dedicating himself to the woman he claims. And that lucky girl is Eliza “Izzy” Forrester. I adored Izzy's character to pieces. Down to earth and tenderhearted, this Spätzchen (little sparrow) handled every situation, whether it be their awkward rocky start to tense-filled moments, with kindness, dignity, and finesse. Life was not kind to Izzy or her family and her painful past shaped the beautiful, loyal and graceful woman that was worthy of Johnny's heart. She had a great sense of humor, a little sassy at times, and a quiet strength that I admired. Seeing her relationship with Johnny grow, breaking down his walls and turning his heart from hopeless to hope-filled, melted me. In all ways, Izzy was THE PERFECT girl for Johnny and a woman I would be happy to embrace as part of my tribe.     How could I not instantly fall in love with a hero with such a cool intro? What a kickass name. Smooth as silk, hard as steel, charming, broody-hot and all Alpha ~ I could list the countless reasons why I fell for him, but the fun is discovering his wonders on your own. He was the quintessential KA Alpha with a fiercely protective and controlling side. Best of all ~ he was dirty talking growler!   He had a few dickish moments, but the way Johnny made amends had me eating out of the palm of his hand. His woeful shattered heart, *sigh*, I wanted to soothe and console him. Stubborn at first for not recognizing all that was him truly deserved genuine happiness with all the beauty that was Izzy. Johnny was everything she needed, and I was thrilled once he finally got his head sorted, stepped up his game and took care of Izzy in every way. This story was addicting, seductive, fiery, yet exquisitely romantic. From shy Izzy fumbling her first ever hookup with Johnny, through to their intense hot AF sexual chemistry and the deep emotional connection which blossomed, I was happily riding the wave right alongside this couple every step of the way. Their banter had me giggling, Johnny's raw and animalistic sexual appetite had me swooning, the angst peppered into the storyline had me on edge, and the epilogue warmed my heart. Just an altogether excellent read from start to finish. Brilliantly written and passion-filled, The Hookup was another amazingly sexy novel that left me feeling all gushy happy and longing for more from the Moonlight and Motor Oil world. (Especially Toby and Addie. I'm jonesing for their story and hoping their turn is next)! One of my favorite reads this year - an instant hit that I highly recommend. Amazon: http://amzn.to/2zdNsLs    Barnes & Noble: http://bit.ly/2ysCvYW    Kobo: http://bit.ly/2ysFiSk iBooks: http://apple.co/2kSwuQC      I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this publication

Sweet Life (Sugar Rush #5) by Nina Lane @NinaLaneAuthor @InkSlingerPR

What a tasty holiday treat that can be savored any time of the year! Sweet Life, the fifth installment in one of my most beloved series by Nina Lane, has become my new favorite! I am just absolutely smitten, head over heels in love with Warren and Julia's romance. Once again, I found myself lost in Lane's enchanting world as my emotions ebbed and flowed with those of her characters, feeling all their love, passion, heartaches and joys. And this time, a refreshing change of pace as well with the journey of a more mature couple. With age comes experience and believe me, this duo may be in their 50's, but the connection they shared was off-the-charts ~ setting my kindle ablaze with their intense sexual chemistry. A beautifully written, heartwarming story of pursuing second chances, the love of family, lifelong friendships, of overcoming past regrets and the courage to face and take on challenges. Following the series, we saw glimpses of Warren and Julia in each of the Sugar Rush novels. Their story could be considered a standalone, but I do suggest diving into at least the first three books to appreciate this couple's history and their dynamic relationship fully. Their connection runs deep as for thirteen years, Julia Bennett effortlessly stepped into the role as matriarch of the Stone Clan when her older sister, Rebecca, suddenly and tragically passed away.  She was the glue that held the family together through the worst of times and right along with Warren, Julia helped raise the Stone children. They are not only in-laws but each other's support system and the closest of confidants. Their relationship, though unconventional due to the circumstances, was painted tastefully, respectfully by the author. The love they shared blossomed organically, weaving the past into the story line which served to strengthen their bonds of love. This couple delightfully surprised me. Julia on the surface played the role of the sharp-tongued, stubborn, tough as nails woman who's always composed and always in control. Seeing her past and the impulsive girl that embraced a wild-child free spirit, all the secrets she carried, the love kept hidden for years and her vulnerable side, shed new light on Julia's persona. Peeling back her layers, she bloomed right before my very eyes. I loved the duality of her character ~ a fiery woman who wore a stern mask as armor for all the world to see while guarding her gentle and fragile heart underneath. I adored Julia for her insecurities and fears as well as her icy, rigid demeanor. She was a tigress, a woman who loved her family and Warren so fiercely, willingly sacrificed her own heart to protect them. Warren Stone melted me. Seriously, this charismatic corporate mogul and father of seven had major swagger. He quickly became one of my favorite characters penned by this author. Beneath his custom-tailored designer suits adorned with cutesy candy themed ties, beat the heart of a ravenously sexy man so wildly passionate, I was swooning my way through page after page practically losing my mind. I loved him and his undying determination to claim Julia, despite her hesitations and reservations. Warren was the perfect hero ~ a man who faced challenges head-on, fought for what he wanted, and never gave up. And in the bedroom ~ Papa Stone liked his control. In a word, Warren was scrumptious.   Written in dual points of view, with occasional flashbacks to the past that explained this couple's long history, I truly enjoyed Warren and Julia's journey. If you are looking for a read that will capture your heart and touch your soul, I highly recommend Sweet Life and this entire series!! Thank you, Nina, for another great romance.   iBooks:  http://apple.co/2l0u6Hq Amazon link: http://a.co/5i0qFap Meet the hot men of the Sugar Rush Candy Company...      I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this publication.