Category Archives: Entagled Publishing

Review: Permanent Ink by Laura Simcox

inkTitle: Permanent Ink by Laura Simcox
Something to Celebrate Series Book Two
Publisher: Entangled Publishing
Imprint: Edge
Genre: Contemporary, Romance
Length: 318 pages
Book Rating: B

Complimentary Review Copy Provided by Publisher

Summary:

Blair Whitaker has one goal: get the hell out of Celebration, NY. Her ticket out is helping the town take the grand prize in a parade contest, which will ensure she lands her dream job. It’s a win-win.

Standing in the way is Ben Lambert, a sexy, local tattoo artist whose smile makes her weak. To win the contest, she’ll have to sideline his plans for the tattoo festival the town council allowed on the same weekend. But trying to thwart Ben is more than she bargained for, and before she knows it, she’s starting to see Celebration–and Ben–as something more than a temporary distraction.

But Blair’s in too deep to change directions now. Celebration is behind the parade contest, the mayor revokes the tattoo festival permit, and Blair is on the cusp of getting everything she’d planned. But coming clean will turn Ben against her for good, and going forward means losing what she really wants and hurting the town she’s grown to love.

The Review:

Permanent Ink, the newest addition to Laura Simcox’s Something to Celebrate series, is an absolutely charming and very steamy romance. Set in the small fictional town of Celebration, NY, this engaging story has a wonderful cast of offbeat but likable characters and a marvelously unique storyline.

Blair Whitaker is only planning on staying in Celebration long enough to get her life back on track. When a plum job pretty much falls in her lap, she eagerly grabs the opportunity to use it to help her salvage her faltering career. The town mayor forces Blair to work with super sexy tattoo artist and local business owner Ben Lambert and although these two share nothing in common but a scorching hot attraction, they are surprised by how well they work together. When a scheduling conflict between Ben’s tattoo festival and the parade contest threatens her plans, Blair concocts a rather underhanded scheme to save the contest at the expense of the festival. Once her relationship with Ben deepens into something more serious than shared desire, she rethinks her plans for her future but is it too late for her to stop the events she has set into motion?

Blair is independent and stubborn and while this is usually a good thing, it is occasionally one of her biggest downfalls. She is also incredibly self-sufficient and she lets her pride sometimes get in her way of asking for help. Blair is surprised by how easily the town accepts her into their fold and she eagerly reconnects with her aunt and cousin. But when she runs into trouble, instead of turning to family and friends, Blair falls back into her old habit of relying on herself to fix her problems.

Ben is laidback and easygoing which makes it easy for Blair to underestimate him. He likes the slower pace of life in Celebration but he miscalculated the difficulty he would encounter growing his tattoo business. The tattoo festival means not just bringing in new clients but, more importantly, it is his chance to honor his close friend and mentor. While Ben harbors a few secrets, he is a straight shooter who is more than happy to work with Blair but in the end, he is deeply hurt by Blair’s betrayal.

The romance between Ben and Blair is understated but it is absolutely delightful watching their relationship evolve over the course of the novel. While most of the story centers around the parade and festival, the two indulge in a few love scenes that are sinfully sexy. Unfortunately, lack of communication, a few misunderstandings and Blair’s scheming threaten their fragile bond.

Permanent Ink is an angst-free romance that is fast-paced and engaging from beginning to end. This opposites attract love story is sure to be a hit with old and new fans of Laura Simcox’s Something to Celebrate series.

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Filed under Contemporary, Edge, Entagled Publishing, Laura Simcox, Permanent Ink, Rated B, Review, Romance, Something to Celebrate Series

Review: Asking for Trouble by Tessa Bailey

askingTitle: Asking for Trouble by Tessa Bailey
Line of Duty Series Book Four
Publisher: Entangled Publishing
Imprint: Brazen
Genre: Contemporary, Romance
Length: 279 pages
Book Rating: B

Complimentary Review Copy Provided by Publisher

Summary:

The fighting was just foreplay…

Brent Mason and Hayden Winstead can’t stand each other. She plans exclusive parties for her rich family’s charities. He’s a rough and tumble cop who rigs explosives for a living. Could two people be any less suited for conversation? They think not and prefer to keep it that way.

Unfortunately, their two best friends are deeply, disgustingly in love. Forced together, the mutual attraction simmering beneath the surface of Brent and Hayden’s non-relationship grows with every argument until it explodes into a scintillating night of mind-blowing sex. And it won’t be the last, as far as Brent’s concerned.

Hayden has a secret, though. Her father’s company is relying on a merger to save them from financial ruin, and only Hayden’s marriage to the CEO’s wealthy son can secure the deal. If she’s to protect her family, she’ll have to forget Brent. And he has no intention of being forgotten.

The Review:

Do you like Alpha males? Do you like enemies to lovers romances? Do you like sex scenes that are deliciously down, dirty and smokin’ hawt? If you answered yes, then you are going to LOVE Tessa Bailey’s Asking for Trouble. This fourth novel in the Line of Duty series is a fast paced and engaging opposites attract romance that old and new fans are sure to enjoy.

Brent Mason and Hayden Winstead barely tolerate each other but since their mutual friends are in love, they are forced to spend lots of time together. They are from completely different backgrounds and they have (unfairly) judged each other based on their social standing. When Hayden decides it is time to firmly put Brent in his place, she issues a sexual gauntlet that Brent gladly accepts. Their night together leads to an explosive and extremely passionate encounter that leaves them with more questions than answers. Brent and Hayden continue to alternately fight and give into their smoldering attraction but will Hayden’s family obligations stand in the way of this volatile couple’s future?

Neither Hayden nor Brent has bothered to look beyond the surface of the other. Hayden is convinced Brent is a knuckle dragging Neanderthal while Brent thinks Hayden is a pampered princess who spends her days shopping. So it comes as a big surprise to both of them what they uncover once they look past superficial appearances. Brent is hardworking and loyal to his family whereas Hayden is just as dedicated to her charity work. Brent is secure in who he and what he wants but Hayden is nursing a few insecurities. Brent is more than happy to let Hayden explore her dominant side and they take turns giving up control to the other.

This lust-filled story borders on the erotic and nothing is off limits as Brent and Hayden explore their attraction. Dirty talking, a little bondage and spanking are just a few of the things this couple bring into the bedroom. There is no shortage of sexual tension between them and their sex scenes are scorching hot.

Witty banter, charming characters and delectably steamy sex scenes make Asking for Trouble a must read for anyone who enjoys contemporary romances. Although it is the fourth installment in Tessa Bailey’s Line of Duty series, it can be read as a standalone story.

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Filed under Asking for Trouble, Brazen, Contemporary, Entagled Publishing, Line of Duty Series, Rated B, Review, Romance, Tessa Bailey

Review: The Twelve Days of Seduction by Maire Claremont

Title: The Twelve Days of Seduction by Maire Claremont
Publisher: Entangled Publishing
Imprint: Flaunt
Genre: Historical, Romance
Length: 120 pages
Book Rating: B

Complimentary Review Copy Provided by Publisher

Summary:

Alexander Hunt, Eighth Duke of Berresford, is aware his ward’s governess misrepresented herself to gain employment, and he’s quite displeased, even if she is one of the most intelligent women’s he’s ever met. His ward deserves a reputable governess, so he threatens to give Adriana the sack mere days before Christmas.

Desperate to convince the sexy duke not to tear her from the little girl she’s grown to adore, Adriana challenges him to prove she’s not the reputable governess he believed he hired. If he can seduce her before the Twelve Days of Christmas have come to an end, she will leave without protest.

But when they find the challenge more difficult than either imagined, can they face the consequences of their decisions?

The Review:

Maire Claremont’s The Twelve Days of Seduction is a sweet yet very steamy feel good love story that I highly recommend to fans of historical romance.

Alexander Hunt recently discovered that his governess is not exactly who she appears to be and threatens to fire her just before Christmas. Adriana Flint has a very good reason for her deception and she cannot fathom leaving the little girl (and the home) she has come to love. Adriana issues a challenge to Alexander that he cannot resist and both of them are surprised by what they learn about themselves and each other over the course of the twelve deliciously sexy days of Christmas.

Adriana is a strong woman who has overcome a difficult past and she is not afraid to speak her mind or stand up for what she believes in. Alexander is insanely attracted to her, but it is once they spend some quality time together that he begins to appreciate her for the woman she is. Once the restrictions of social classes are stripped away, Adriana and Alexander begin to recognize the depth of their feelings for each other.

The Twelve Days of Seduction is a sparkling gem with richly developed protagonists and a storyline that has a surprising amount of depth. The characters are engaging and the overall plot is quite heartwarming. A quick and easy read that will delight anyone who reads historical romances.

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Filed under Entagled Publishing, Flaunt, Historical, Maire Claremont, Rated B, Review, Romance, The Twelve Days of Seduction

Friday Feature: Blog Tour, Review & Contest Gina L. Maxwell’s Rules of Entanglement

Title: Rules of Entanglement by Gina L. Maxwell
Fighting for Love Series Book Two
Publisher: Entangled Publishing
Imprint: Brazen (Special Edition)
Genre: Contemporary, Romance
Length: 397 pages
Book Rating: B

Complimentary Review Copy Provided by Publisher

Summary:

Seven days. And seven rules to break…

District Attorney Vanessa MacGregor firmly believes that structure and order are the stuff that dreams are made of. Happiness can be planned—and it starts with the seven rules she’s laid out for her future. But as she’s organizing her best friend’s wedding in Hawaii, all of Vanessa’s best-laid plans are about to meet their match in a wickedly hot MMA fighter…

Jackson “Jax” Maris is focused on surfing, training, and fighting. That is, until he opens up his big mouth, and finds himself having to pretend he’s engaged to his little sister’s best friend, Vanessa. When they’re forced to share a romantic bungalow, however, their little charade suddenly takes a turn for the seriously sexy. And while Jax is definitely not part of Vanessa’s long-term plan, he has seven days—and seven naughty nights—to turn her seven-rule plan upside down.

Purchase Links: Nook * Kindle * Kobo * iBookstore

The Review:

Gina L. Maxwell’s Rules of Entanglement is a deliciously steamy romance between two unlikely lovers. There is an instant attraction between Vanessa MacGregor and Jackson “Jax” Maris but workaholic Vanessa finds everything about laidback Jackson irritating. Working together to help plan their friends’ wedding keeps this couple in close proximity and they decide to indulge in a three day fling.

Jackson and Vanessa are as opposite as night and day. Vanessa is uptight and controlled and she uses her rules to not only protect her heart, but to keep everyone at a distance. Jackson is serious when it comes to his career, but the rest of the time? He knows to relax and just enjoy life. Vanessa has a difficult time getting past her first (negative) impression of Jackson and in the beginning, she is a difficult character to warm up to.

The sexual attraction between Jackson and Vanessa is sizzling. The sparks continually fly as these two fight for dominance in the bedroom. Their sex scenes are playful and sensual with just the tiniest hint of kink. With an expiration date on their relationship, Vanessa lets down her guard and Jackson slips past her emotional barriers.

Rules of Entanglement is a long book, but only covers a few days so there is an insta-love quality to their relationship. Vanessa and Jackson barely know each other, and bam! All of a sudden they trust each other enough to reveal all their deep dark secrets and they are in love. There is a story arc with Vanessa’s sister that is never fully resolved and left me wondering exactly what purpose it served. Is Ms. Maxwell laying the foundation for a future book? Or is it simply a plot device to set the scene for the ensuing conflict between Vanessa and Jackson?

Although I had a few reservations, I did enjoy Rules of Entanglement. I loved the setting and Gina L. Maxwell brings it vibrantly to life. I enjoyed seeing Vanessa loosen up and break a few of her rules. I absolutely adored Jackson and even though he is less than honest with Vanessa in the beginning, he does feel remorseful for deceiving her.

All in all, a entertaining and sexy read. Rules of Entanglement is the second book in the Fighting for Love series, but it can be read as a standalone.


Click HERE to follow the rest of the tour and enter the contest for a Kindle Fire HD or a $200 Amazon Gift Card.

7 Comments

Filed under Blog Tour, Brazen (Special Edition), Contemporary, Contest, Entagled Publishing, Gina L Maxwell, Rated B, Review, Romance, Rules of Entanglement

Blog Tour Stop & Review: Just for the Summer by Jenna Rutland

Title: Just for the Summer by Jenna Rutland
Lake Bliss Series Book One
Publisher: Entangled: Bliss
Genre: Contemporary, Romance
Length: 131 pages
Book Rating: B

Complimentary Review Copy Provided by Publisher

Summary:

His temptation. Her secret. Their summer.

Dani Sullivan has come to Lake Bliss to write her latest cookbook and take a breather. After the year she’s had, she deserves a summer retreat to reevaluate priorities and make peace with past decisions. But from the moment single dad and sheriff Matt Reagan shows up, she has a hard time convincing herself that a life away from Lake Bliss could beat the life she might have here.

Recently divorced Matt is ready for a new relationship, but he doesn’t want short-term—his son needs permanence, and so does Matt’s heart. Unfortunately, it’s the smart-mouthed and sinfully sexy Ms. Sullivan who catches his eye. But when Matt learns Dani’s secrets, will he still want her to stay? Or will her chance for love last just for the summer?

Purchase Links: Amazon * Barnes & Noble * iBookstore * Books on Board * Kobo

The Review:

If you are looking for a quick read that is fun and flirty, then you should pick up a copy of Just for the Summer by Jenna Rutland. It is a super sweet romance but what really won me over was the deliciously suggestive banter between Dani Sullivan and Matt Reagan. Throw in an adorable kid and a lovable dog and you have an irresistible love story that is quite captivating.

Dani and Matt are well-developed and likable characters. Both of them are currently dealing with life changing events and emotional baggage from their respective pasts. Dani’s mother has recently passed away and Dani is trying to come to terms with a long ago decision that still weighs heavily on her mind. Matt is a divorced dad trying juggle single fatherhood with the demands of his new job as Sheriff. Unusual circumstances bring them together but a secret from Dani’s past jeopardizes their burgeoning relationship.

The relationship between Dani and Matt is light-hearted and quite flirtatious. They share a smoldering attraction for one another and Jenna Rutland keeps the sexual tension high with their outrageous flirting and delightfully sexy innuendo.

Just for the Summer is an absolutely charming romance that anyone who likes contemporary romances is sure to enjoy.


Author Bio:

Jenna Rutland lives in a small Michigan community with her husband, son and senior cat. Her daughter and son-in-law have recently given Jenna the awesome title of grandmother!

While her days are spent working as a medical transcriptionist, her nights are filled writing contemporary romance–stories of love, laughter and happily ever after. Guess which occupation is more fun?

She is a member of RWA and is active in her local chapter. After several years on the MVRWA board, she now chairs the group’s annual fall brainstorming weekend as well as acts as food coordinator for several other events.

Jenna takes pleasure in spending time with her family. She also enjoys reading, gardening and loves the challenge of a new recipe.

Jenna welcomes the chance to connect with writers and readers. Visit her at www.jennarutland.com.

Follow the rest of the blog tour HERE.

4 Comments

Filed under Blog Tour, Contemporary, Entagled Publishing, Jenna Rutland, Just for the Summer, Lake Bliss Series, Rated B, Review, Romance

Blog Tour Stop, Review & Contest: Treacherous Temptations by Victoria Vane

Welcome to my blog tour stop of Victoria Vane’s Treacherous Temptations brought to you by Entangled Publishing. Here is my review of her latest Georgian Historical romance and your chance to win one of four fabulous prizes.

Follow the rest of the tour HERE.


Title: Treacherous Temptations by Victoria Vane
Publisher: Entangled Publishing, LLC
Imprint: Scandalous
Genre: Historical, Romance
Length: 254 pages (estimated)
Book Rating: B

Review Copy Obtained from Publisher

Summary:

A reluctant heiress resigned to her fate…

Mary Elizabeth Edwardes has one of the largest fortune’s in England, but has no desire to leave her quiet country existence… and even less to acquire a husband she cannot choose for herself.

A dissolute nobleman bent on retribution…

Trapped in a duplicitous existence since scandal destroyed his fortune and family name, Lord Hadley Blanchard has spent the better part of a decade posing as a disaffected exile while spying and seducing in the service of the English Crown.

A dangerous game of seduction, and intrigue…

When summoned from abroad by a former lover, Lord Hadley perceives an opportunity for vengeance at last. By employing the full measure of his seductive charm, he woos the ward of the man who destroyed his life, little knowing that winning Mary’s fortune will mean risking his own treacherous heart.

AUTHOR’S NOTE: TREACHEROUS TEMPTATIONS was very much inspired by the dark and romantic novels of the 18th century in which virtue vs. vice and plots to despoil virgins were very popular themes, books like Clarissa Harlowe by Samuel Richardson or Les Liaisons Dangereuses by LaClos. Similar to these classic tales, my story features an innocent country girl who, unlike the former heroines, is neither insipid nor naive, but still inadvertently becomes a pawn in a deadly game of revenge and intrigue.

The Review:

Fans of historical romances do not want to miss Victoria Vane’s Treacherous Temptations. With just a hint of intrigue, it is a deliciously sensual romance between an innocent young woman and a rather debauched nobleman. A truly delightful story that is fast paced with a beautifully developed cast of characters that I greatly enjoyed.

Mary Elizabeth Edwardes is an heiress to a vast fortune and her unscrupulous guardian, Sir Richard Fiske, has decided it is time for her to marry. Content to live in obscurity at her country home, Mary is a fish out of water in London but she knows she must follow Sir Richard’s dictates. Inexperienced with men, but far from naive, she is quite intelligent, resigned to her fate and no match for the seductive and worldly Lord Hadley Blanchard.

Following the scandal that stripped him of his fortune and title, Hadley has been living abroad for several years. His years working as a spy have not quenched his desire for revenge nor his need to reclaim his family’s estates and clear his family’s name. When fate steps in and lends a hand in his quest for vengeance against Sir Richard, Hadley eagerly begins his seduction of the innocent Mary. But the seducer becomes the seduced when Hadley begins to fall for the beguiling beauty.

A stellar cast of villainous characters fully rounds out this fast paced story. Barbara, Hadley’s stepmother, is depraved, cunning and manipulative. Sir Richard is greedy, corrupt and calculating. Lord Barnesley plays a small but key role in the Barbara and Richard’s wicked plan to gain control of Mary’s fortune.

Ms. Vane always does a stellar job of redeeming her male characters and Lord Hadley is no exception. It is easy to sympathize with Hadley once we learn the truth about his past. By the time he returns to England, Hadley has begun to have second thoughts about his activities, and he no longer thinks the end justifies the means. His transformation from dissolute rake with a fervent need for revenge to a caring man who puts Mary’s welfare before his own is incredibly moving and heartwarming.

A novel with depth and substance, an intriguing plot and some very steamy lovemaking, Treacherous Temptations is another captivating romance from Victoria Vane. A little darker than her previous works, this beautiful story of betrayal, redemption and love is not to be missed by anyone who enjoys well-researched Historical romances.


About Victoria Vane:

VICTORIA VANE A lover of history and deeply romantic stories, Victoria combines these elements to craft romantic historical novels and novellas for a mature reading audience. Her writing influences are Georgette Heyer for fabulous witty dialogue and over the top characters, Robin Schone , Sylvia Day, and Charlotte Featherstone for beautifully crafted prose in stories with deep sensuality, and Lila DiPasqua for creative vision in melding history with eroticism. Ms. Vane also writes romantic historical fiction as Emery Lee.

Website * Victoria’s Titillating Tidbits * Twitter * Facebook * Amazon * Barnes & Noble


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3 Comments

Filed under Blog Tour, Contest, Entagled Publishing, Highlander Unchained, Rated B, Review, Romance, Scandalous Imprint, Treacherous Temptations