Review: Only For You by Genna Rulon

 Title: Only For You (For You #1)

Author: Genna Rulon

Source: Received through blog tour in exchange for an honest review

Synopsis:

All Everleigh Carsen wanted to do was complete her final semester at Hensley University and begin the life she planned. When a wave of violent crime seizes campus, Everleigh is persuaded by her best friend to attend a school sponsored self-defense seminar, where she meets volunteer instructor, Hunter Charles. After Everleigh's biting sarcasm induces Hunter to eject her from class, an explosive relationship is born. Everleigh is determined to forget the striking man, but fate-that fickle shrew- continuously intervenes. Unable to escape him, she casts Hunter as her prime adversary. The only complication...Hunter is resolutely pursuing his vindication...by any means necessary. Verbal warfare ensues, and despite Everleigh's ingenious efforts, in Hunter, she has finally found her equal. Only For You is a compelling tale of friendship, desire, and redemption-brimming with witty characters, intelligent dialogue, unexpected twists, profound sorrow, unfettered hope, and love's unassailable perseverance. This story is appropriate for readers 18+
 


Review:

Only For You is the first book in a new series by Genna Rulon. It's a great New Adult romance told from the view of Everleigh – a college student at Hensley University. After many attacks on female college students, Everleigh’s friend Sam convinces her to take the self-defense course that the school is offering. Here is where she meets Hunter – the hot instructor who kicks her out of class. Feeling humiliated, she is determined to forget all about him...but that's hard to do when he ends up being everywhere she turns.

There's a lot of comical banter between Hunter and Everleigh, and they end up being friends. Everleigh is a great heroine – she is a strong and witty character. She and Hunter have personalities that mesh so well, they fit together like 2 puzzle pieces. Because of some ridiculous reasoning on her part, Everleigh thinks that there's no chance that Hunter could ever be attracted to her (but I won't spoil what that reason is). She falls really hard for Hunter though. The story is only told from her point of view, so you don't really know what is going through Hunter's head.

The mystery revolving the attacks is written amazingly. Not only do you feel a slight creepy vibe throughout the book, but you always feel on guard as a reader because you never know when the next attack is going to happen. The plot is really interesting and the character development is great too. Another character I really liked was Everleigh’s friend Sam. I see that the second book in this series is about Sam, and that makes me really happy.

There's a lot of mystery, comedy, and romance going on – but my favorite part was the romance. Hunter and Everleigh have a lot of passion together. There's a lot of sexual tension leading up to when they FINALLY have their first love scene. It isn't detailed like in a lot of books, but yet it isn't glossed over either. I've been in a bit of a reading slump lately, and this book helped to pull me out of it. It was perfect and the writing was wonderful. I'm really looking forward to book #2!

Find the author here:

http://www.gennarulon.com/

Find this book at the following places:

Amazon US | Amazon CA | Amazon UK

In case you missed my blog tour post for Only For You, check it out HERE. There are some great prizes available to win!

Book Blitz & Giveaway: Carnal by Lola Taylor

Carnal by Lola Taylor
(Her Dark Desires #1)
Publication date: December 1st 2013
Genres: Erotica, Paranormal Romance

Synopsis:

Boy meets girl. Then things get hot…

Sally the succubus sucks at her job, no pun intended. Being a former secretary with no love life to speak of doesn’t exactly give her much experience in the “Hot Seductress” department. So when her Master says she’s not meeting her monthly soul-corrupting quota, he does what any loving boss would do – he sends her to Elysian, a reform school for the “wicked at heart.” Determined to prove she’s not terrible at her job, Sally sets out to become the best succubus she can be. And with her long-time crush Hector, the Underworld’s most infamous incubus, as her teacher, Sally’s even more anxious to prove her mettle.

Too bad no one told her that people have been mysteriously disappearing from Elysian, only to show up as mutilated corpses a few days later. Then she might not have been so eager to go, man candy or not.

When the killer targets Sally, it’s up to Hector and her to put a stop to the evil force once and for all. But doing so may cost them their hearts – and their souls.

Fast, fun, and flirty, Carnal is a steamy paranormal romance that’s sure to leave you aching for more.

WARNING: Adult language and explicit sexual situations. Recommended for 18+

Add to Goodreads

Purchase Links:

Amazon

Amazon UK

Amazon CA 

Smashwords

Kobo

All Romance

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Excerpt:

I lost my breath, taking a step back. “But you - you’ve been so silent. So…”

“Cold?” he provided, standing and sauntering toward me.

I backed away, though not out of fear he would harm me. It was out of fear of having my heart torn in half if my instincts, my darkest, deepest desires, were wrong.

I wetted my lips and swallowed against my suddenly parched throat. “Yeah. Cold.”

“I had to be. Professional, that is. It’s the number one rule around here.”

My back hit the wall, and he threw up an arm on either side of my head, cornering me as he leaned in. His mouth was about an inch from mine. “And what I want is strictly forbidden,” he whispered.

I stared at his full lips, wanting to run my tongue along them, to fully taste him. “What is?” I breathed, trembling.

He smiled. “That a teacher will not lust after his pupil.”

I forgot how to breathe as his lips brushed mine in a questioning kiss. “I want you, Sally,” he whispered. “More than I’ve ever wanted anyone before. You’re intoxicating.”

That’s when it hit me - he was asking for permission to continue. “I want you too,” I said, then wrapped my arms around his neck and kissed him deeply.

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About the author:

Lola Taylor is a pen name for my, erm, “steamier” novels. I like books that make me laugh, gasp, and swoon, which is what I try to shoot for in my stories. I’m a sucker for fantasy books, particularly those involving vampires and the supernatural – especially while said vampire is sweeping a gal off her feet. I like horror movies, playing around in Photoshop, and wearing the battery down on my ereader. I have two rescued kitties, and a husband who hates to read but gives me his unconditional support, all the same. During the day, I work in a cubicle for customer service and hash out new story ideas in my many notebooks. At night, I work on my stories until I faceplant on my keyboard. Then I wake up and do it again the next day. I love it. =) (The writing part, not so much the “faceplanting-on-the-keyboard” part.) I love Game of Thrones, reading manga, and have a slight Pinterest addiction.

Author Links:

Website

Goodreads

Facebook

Twitter


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Giveaway!!

Win one of 2 ebook copies of Carnal 

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Cover Reveal: Shine by Dannika Dark

Shine (Mageri Series, Bk #5)

By Dannika Dark

Blurb: 

In the short span of a year, Silver has gone from becoming a Mage to discovering the truth about her unique genetics. Logan Cross went from her mortal enemy to her immortal lover, but a threat is fast approaching like an inevitable storm. Attacks are underway against the Mageri and one man is behind it—an elusive foe who is an unstoppable force. Nero is not Silver’s only concern as someone close to her is arrested for treason. In the midst of chaos, Silver discovers she cannot protect everyone from the wrath of fate, including her own Ghuardian.

Justus finally opens his heart, but an unexpected turn of events could darken his soul forever. Secrets are revealed that will leave you reeling from one twist after the next. Would you sacrifice everything for love?

Destiny has set sail and once she alters her course, no one’s life will ever be the same in this explosive conclusion to the Mageri Series.

Release Date:

December 20, 2013

About the Author

This is the segment where you learn a little more about who I am, so here's what I can tell you:  I drink copious amounts of vitamin water placed precariously close to my laptop while writing. These are two healthy habits I have no intention of breaking. I'm a transplant living in the south, but I was born in the 70's to a military dad who moved us around the world.

When I'm not writing (which is all the time), I'm hunting down Indie music, watching movies, reading, eating Tex-Mex, discovering new ways to humiliate myself bowling, and burning up my laptop battery on the Internet. I have a relaxed, easy-going personality and don't like drama. I live with a cat who thinks she is a dog, or a goat (she eats plastic, so I'm not sure which).

Throughout my life, I've had insomnia. Counting sheep never worked and eventually I would imagine those sheep were the sole source of food after an apocalyptic battle where only thousands survived. I made up stories in a futile attempt to bore myself to sleep. The problem was, I got so wrapped up in my "head stories" that I would continue them through the following nights, changing it up each time to make it more exciting. Eventually, I started writing my ideas down - creating short stories, and then I discovered my love for poetry.

It's almost embarrassing how many spiral notebooks and stacks of paper I have of poetry and lyrics.

Another passion: digital art. I design all my book covers, marketing, and series art. I'm a very visual person and pursued photography as an avid hobby for many years.

I am not a YA author (I feel like I have to state this only because I've had a few people ask), but I think it's wonderful there are so many books available to teens in Urban Fantasy and Paranormal.

I am finally doing what I have always wanted to do: giving my characters a pulse through writing full time. I focus on adult urban fantasy romance, but I don't like labels and I enjoy blending genres to break out of the confines of predictability.

But it's what I love to do.

Danni

You can stalk, I mean find Dannika here: 

            

Presented By 

Book Tour: Only For You by Genna Rulon

Welcome to the Only For You book review tour! Unfortunately, I don't have my review ready yet. Between having trouble getting the book downloaded to my kindle, and then forgetting my charger on my trip out of town for Thanksgiving, I haven't had the chance to finish it yet. I can tell you that I'm enjoying it so far though! I will have my review up within the next couple of days. Until then, you can find out more about the book and author, and enter the giveaway!

Title: Only for You (For You #1)

Author: Genna Rulon

Genre: New Adult

Publication Date: September 24, 2013

Event organized by: Literati Author Services, Inc.

 

Synopsis

“In its purest form love is self-sacrificing, eternal, selfless, enduring, truthful, forgiving and indulgent. It also feels an awful lot like a kick to the stomach when you try to fight it!“

All Everleigh Carsen wanted to do was complete her final semester at Hensley University and begin the life she carefully planned.

When a wave of violent crime seizes campus, Everleigh is persuaded to attend a school sponsored self-defense seminar by her best friend, where she meets volunteer instructor, Hunter Charles. After Everleigh’s biting sarcasm induces Hunter to eject her from class, a tempestuous relationship is born.

Everleigh is determined to forget the striking man, but fate–that fickle shrew–continuously intervenes. Unable to escape him, she declares Hunter an enemy combatant. The only complication… Hunter is resolutely pursuing vindication…by any means necessary. Verbal warfare ensues, and despite Everleigh’s ingenious efforts, in Hunter, she has finally found her equal.

Only For You is a compelling tale of friendship, desire, and redemption--brimming with intelligent characters, witty dialogue, unexpected twists, profound sorrow, unfettered hope, and love’s unassailable perseverance.

Note: Although this is series, each novel can be read as a stand alone.

Add to Goodreads

Purchase Links

Amazon US | Amazon CA | Amazon UK

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About the author:

Genna Rulon is an up and coming contemporary romance author.

During her 15 years in the corporate world, Genna, inspired by her love of reading, fantasized about penning her own stories. Encouraged by her favorite authors, many of whom are indie writers and self-published, she committed to pursuing her aspirations of writing her own novels.

Genna was raised in Long Island, New York, where she still resides, surrounded by the most amazing family and friends. Married to a wonderful man, who patiently tolerates her ramblings about whichever book she is currently working on, even feigning interest relatively convincingly! Genna is blessed with two little boys who do their best to thwart mommy’s writing time with their hilarious antics and charming extrapolations.

Connect with the Author:  Facebook | Twitter | Website | Goodreads | Pinterest | Tumblr

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Tour Wide Giveaway:

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Black Friday Extravaganza

Title: The Forgotten Ones (The Danaan Trilogy #1)

Author: Laura Howard

Allison O'Malley's plan is to go to grad school so she can get a good job and take care of her schizophrenic mother. She has carefully closed herself off from everything else, including a relationship with Ethan, who she's been in love with for as long as she can remember.

What is definitely not part of the plan is the return of her long-lost father, who claims he can bring Allison's mother back from the dark place her mind has gone. Allison doesn't trust her father, so why would she believe his stories about a long forgotten Irish people, the Tuatha de Danaan? But truths have a way of revealing themselves. Secrets will eventually surface. And Allison must learn to set aside her plan and work with her father if there is even a small chance it could restore her mother's sanity.

Right now it is FREE on Amazon!! 

Find the author here:

Facebook

Twitter

Enter for your chance to win one of 4 Amazon gift cards!!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Blog Blitz and Review: Hard As It Gets by Laura Kaye

Congratulation to Laura Kaye - her new book, Hard As It Gets, releases today!!!

Find it at the following places:

Amazon

B&N

BAM

 

     

Title: Hard As It Gets (Hard Ink #1) Author: Laura Kaye Source: received copy from publisher in exchange for an honest review     Synopsis:

Tall, dark, and lethal...

Trouble just walked into Nicholas Rixey's tattoo parlor. Becca Merritt is warm, sexy, wholesome--pure temptation to a very jaded Nick. He's left his military life behind to become co-owner of Hard Ink Tattoo, but Becca is his ex-commander's daughter. Loyalty won't let him turn her away. Lust has plenty to do with it too.

With her brother presumed kidnapped, Becca needs Nick. She just wasn't expecting to want him so much. As their investigation turns into all-out war with an organized crime ring, only Nick can protect her. And only Becca can heal the scars no one else sees.

Desire is the easy part. Love is as hard as it gets. Good thing Nick is always up for a challenge...



Review:

Hard As It Gets is the first book in the brand new Hard Ink series by Laura Kaye. Our heroine is Becca – a cute and innocent woman whose brother has gone missing. Before he disappears, Charlie gives Becca a message that says to get the help of Nick Rixey. Little does Becca know, her father (an army commander) ruined the lives of Nick and several men on his team. Of course, Nick holds a grudge and doesn't think he should care about the problems that his ex-commander's family is having. He turns Becca away, but yet can't get her out of his mind.

The characters were all great. Nick is this ex-soldier turned tattoo artist who is a little rough around the edges. He has a lot of physical and emotional scars that he must deal with on a daily basis. Becca may be the innocent damsel in distress, but she's not stupid. A lot of things happen to her that would make most women have a breakdown, but Becca keeps pushing forward – determined to find her brother. There are a lot of interesting secondary characters, including Nick's brother Jeremy. I'm really hoping that he gets a book of his own. Also included in this book are the remaining members of the Special Ops team, who come to Nick's aid.

Hard As It Gets is a great romantic mystery. It's not a fun, carefree romance. It's serious, yet sensual at the same time. It's a fast-paced mix of romance, mystery, and action – in that order. It's first and foremost a romance – a very steamy one at that. If you love hot romance, intriguing mystery, tattoos, and sexy military men – then this book is for you!

Visit Laura Kaye here:

http://laurakayeauthor.blogspot.com/

Release Day Blitz: Deadly to Promise by Mia Hoddell

Deadly to Promise (Elemental Killers #2)
by Mia Hoddell

Genre: YA/Romance/Paranormal/Fantasy

Blurb:

A broken promise is all it takes.

Becoming an E.K isn’t a choice for Serena – it’s a necessity to survive. To destroy the Elementals she has to leave her old life behind. She has to train and follow a strict regime. But with time against her, she has only a few weeks to master the skills Kai spent his whole life perfecting.

The knowledge passed down from her ancestors is crucial to the Elementals demise and the success of their mission. However, the path they must follow is lined with riddles, each more confusing than the next. It doesn’t matter how close to succeeding they get, it’s never enough. The Elementals are one step ahead at every revelation and that can only mean one thing – the E.Ks have a traitor among them.

For one week only, both Deadly to Love and Deadly to Promise are 99c / 77p!

Buy Now: Amazon | Amazon.co.uk

Excerpt

“Have you ever been swimming here?” I asked moving my head to watch his reaction as I brought my feet up out of the water and folded them beside me.

“Yeah, most summers when I came here. We all used to use it as a way to cool off or just have some fun in between training.”

“How about skinny dipping?” I asked my grin growing due to the thoughts running through my head.

“Why? You want to try it?” he challenged.

“Only if you go first,” I laughed but stopped instantly when he removed his shirt and tossed it behind us. My eyes widened in surprise and I started to regret my words. “You’re not being serious are you?” I stuttered as he pulled off his shoes, throwing them over to where his shirt was crumpled.

“You can’t chicken out now Rea. It was your idea,” he said smiling as he removed each sock, teasing me as they ended up with the rest of his discarded garments.

I just stared at him, my lips moving but not making a sound as I tried to find an excuse.

He laughed at me. “Relax Rea, I’m just teasing you. Well unless you’ve changed your mind. In that case I’m being deadly serious.” He had a cheeky grin on his face as he spoke and I pushed him hard, toppling him into the water below.

There was a lot of splashing but Kai surfaced finally, taking a deep breath as he flicked the hair out of his eyes. I was clutching my stomach in fits of laughter as I bent over. The shock on his face was priceless.

“Oh you are so dead Rea, so, so dead,” he said, his voice ragged as the cold water and shock affected his half naked body. I just continued to laugh as he floated in front of me, his head bobbing up and down in a comical way.

Deadly to Love (Elemental Killers #1)
by Mia Hoddell

Genre: YA/Romance/Paranormal/Fantasy
ASIN: B00BDQ3QGA
ISBN: 978-1-291-41025-9

Blurb

The world is dangerous – but love will kill you.
Little did Serena Jackson know that one simple, flirty remark to an anonymous guy online would lead to her world being changed forever.

She doesn’t know him, but inexplicably, is drawn. She knows it is wrong but she agrees to meet.

His real name is Kai. He is beautiful. And immediately Serena feels herself blindly falling for him even though she senses a lie. She knows he is hiding something and it terrifies her.

What she doesn’t realise is that her entire life has been built on secrets and lies. The people she loved left her in the dark for a reason.

She trusted them. She trusts Kai. But as he pulls her straight into the heart of the danger the lies and deadly secrets are revealed. They overwhelm her, and the person she once was no longer exists as she is thrown into a ruthless world of elemental forces. The price of truth is her life—and now the world wants her dead.

Buy Now: Amazon (Kindle) | Amazon (Paperback) | Lulu

Praise:

“I couldn't put it down. So I finished it last night and all I can say is WOW! This book was amazing and different.” Brianna (Book Blogger)

“I loved how the author took a different approach to writing a love story in modern times with the paranormal element present. I thought it was absolutely wonderful and refreshing. Marvelous!” Kathy H (Amazon Reviewer)

“In the end I had fallen in love with this story…completely untraditional it was a very original idea, not to mention modern. This story had such a good plot and the story structure was sound.” Kacii – The Kooky Bookworm (Book Blogger)

About the Author

Mia Hoddell lives in the UK with her family and two cats. She spends most of her time writing or reading and loves anything paranormal. Mia always had a love of writing but never reading. She was more interested in sports and hated sitting still - despite getting three poems published before the age of sixteen. Finally though, she found some novels that captured her interest and developed a love of reading which is now one of her favourite hobbies.

Mia began with poems before moving on to short stories. Although she enjoyed this, Mia found she had too much to tell with too little space, so later on she created her first series 'The Wanderer Trilogy' and from there other ideas have emerged. With a total of nine books planned at this moment, she is busy working on her second series 'Elemental Killers' before moving onto the next idea on her ever growing list.

Links: 

Blog |Twitter@MiaHoddell | Facebook Page |Goodreads | Amazon Author Page

Mia's favorite book couples:

1. Cameron and Andrew from The Edge of Never by J. A Redmerski. They were so sweet and realistic
2. Valkyrie and Fletcher from Skulduggery Pleasant by Derek Landy. It’s just a funny relationship as they have different opinions on everything.
3. Willow and Alex from Angel Fire by L. A Weatherly. I could really connect and sympathise with them.
4. Ramil and Tashi from Dragonfly by Julia Golding. One of the best hate at first sight relationships.
5. Faythe and Marc from Stray by Rachel Vincent. I love the banter between the two of them.

Goodreads Book Giveaway

Deadly to Love

by Mia Hoddell

Giveaway ends December 06, 2013.
See the giveaway details at Goodreads.

Enter to win