Better When He's Brave (Welcome to The Point #3) by Jay Crownover

Titus King has always seen his world in black and white. There is a firm right and wrong in his mind, which is why as a teenager he left behind the only family he’d ever known to make a better life for himself. Now a police detective in one of the worst cities in the country, he can’t deny his life has turned into a million different shades of gray.

The new criminal element in The Point has brought vengeance and destruction right to Titus’s front door, and walking the straight and narrow seems far less important now. The difference between right and wrong is nothing compared to keeping those he loves alive. To add to his already strained moral compass, the beautiful and mysterious Reeve Black has made her way back to town. This girl might be as dangerous to Titus as the guy trying to destroy the Point but he can’t walk away because he needs her—in more ways than one.

Reeve knows all about the threat trying to destroy The Point. She knows how ruthless, how vicious, and how cruel this new danger can be… and instead of running away, she wants to help. Reeve knows that she has a lot to repent for and saving the city, plus the hot cop that she hasn’t been able to forget might just be the only way she can finally find some inner peace.

With an entire city poised on the brink of war, Titus and Reeve stand in the crossfire—and it will take two brave souls to fight for the ultimate love.

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Hot damn, this series gets better and better! Just when I think Jay can't top herself, she delivers a character like Titus King (best name ever!). "Hot Cop" doesn't even begin to encompass all that he is. I was curious how Titus was going to fit in with the resident bad boys of The Point, and worried that his "righteous, do-gooder" persona would come off boring compared to Bax and Race. Boy, was I surprised (and wrong)! 

Our "Hot Cop" turned out to be an incredibly complex character. I love Bax and Race, but Titus is just something else. He is a tightly coiled spring that is somehow just...more -  more intense, more tortured, sexier, just more...everything. He is the ideal hero - forever willing to stand on the front lines and protect the innocent. He's Atlas, carrying the weight of entire city on his shoulders. Strong and brave. Yet he doesn't belong on a pedestal. He's not perfect and battles everyday against his inner demons - his background, his past choices, where he grew up. He makes the hard choice everyday to walk on the right side of the law, to not take the easy way out, in a place that doesn't often reward that. 

Reeve was the perfect counterbalance to Titus, and I liked her "git 'er done" attitude. I liked the push and pull between her and Titus, and how she never seemed to back down. She's a strong female character up against an intense, overwhelming male character, but she holds her own. Their love story is ripe with tension, and when it explodes, it will leave you in need of a (or several) cold shower. I loved this book, from cover to cover and every page in between!

Up next in the series is Nassir and Keelyn's story, due out in Spring 2016. Can't wait to return to The Point!

Beautiful Sacrifice (Maddox Brothers #3) by Jamie McGuire

Falyn Fairchild can walk away from anything. Having already left her car, her education, and even her parents, the daughter of the next governor of Colorado is back in her hometown, broke and waiting tables for the Bucksaw Café. After every shift, Falyn adds to her shoebox of cash, hoping to one day save enough to buy her a plane ticket to the only place she can find forgiveness: Eakins, Illinois.

The moment Taylor Maddox is seated in Falyn’s section at the Bucksaw, she knows he’s trouble. Taylor is charming, breaks promises, and gorgeous even when covered in filth—making him everything Falyn believes a hotshot firefighter to be. Falyn isn’t interested in becoming another statistic, and for a Maddox boy, a disinterested girl is the ultimate challenge.

Once Falyn learns where Taylor calls home, everything changes. In the end, Maddox persistence is met with Falyn’s talent for leaving, and for the first time, Taylor may be the one to get burned.

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Whew! This installment of The Maddox Brothers brings new meaning to the classic hit, "Love is a Battlefield." The odds seemed to be stacked against Falyn and Taylor the entire time. There was no reprieve and it seemed like every time they took one step forward, they got knocked back three. They battled their own issues, outside forces, and misunderstandings at every turn. It certainly made for an emotional journey and I found myself riveted to their story and turning the pages as fast as I could to find out what happened next. 

I admire Falyn and Taylor's willingness and ability to fight for each other and their love in the end. To be honest, I wasn't sure how this one was going to work out and there were plenty of twists in the plot that kept the story interesting and from becoming predictable. This is certainly no "easy" love story, but I think that's what makes Falyn and Taylor such a special couple. You will need to hang on tight through this one, but if you are willing to battle it out with this couple, I know that you will love where they end up. I would definitely recommend reading the other books in the series, as there is a lot of character/plot crossover, but this installment stands out as the best in the series so far.

When You're Back By Abbi Glines

The future is bright for Reese Ellis. She has Mase Colt-Manning, the man of her dreams, and a family she didn’t know existed until her long-lost father arrived on her doorstep in Rosemary Beach. After growing up with a cruel mother and abusive stepfather, Reese is eager to get to know the caring and charming man who wants to be a part of her life. Everything is finally falling into place.

While Reese is visiting her new family in Chicago, Mase spends time with his “cousin,” Aida, who has worshipped him since childhood. Though they’re unrelated by blood, Mase and Aida have been raised to think of each other as family. But when Reese returns, she can tell something isn’t quite right with Aida, who clearly resents Reese and excels at manipulative little games. And though Mase is unsuspecting, Reese knows Aida doesn’t love him like a cousin should...

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There is little to say about this book other than that Abbi delivers another work of perfection. I am sad that this series is coming to an end, but Abbi certainly has not let up at all. This was the perfect ending to Mase and Reese's story. It has all the drama, romance, mess ups, and make ups that make this series great. The proposal scene was enough to make me swoon ten times over! 

There are some great twists and a shocking revelation about a certain character (Captain...Holy Cow! Didn't not see that coming!) that made for a great read and built anticipation for the upcoming installments. This book gets five giant stars from me!

Up Next...

The Best Goodbye - Captain's story: October 2015

Up in Flames - Nan's story: March 2016

Untitled book for Dean: December 2016

Grey (Fifty Shades #4) by E L James

In Christian's own words, and through his thoughts, reflections, and dreams, E L James offers a fresh perspective on the love story that has enthralled millions of readers around the world.

Christian Grey exercises control in all things; his world is neat, disciplined, and utterly empty—until the day that Anastasia Steele falls into his office, in a tangle of shapely limbs and tumbling brown hair. He tries to forget her, but instead is swept up in a storm of emotion he cannot comprehend and cannot resist. Unlike any woman he has known before, shy, unworldly Ana seems to see right through him—past the business prodigy and the penthouse lifestyle to Christian’s cold, wounded heart.

Will being with Ana dispel the horrors of his childhood that haunt Christian every night? Or will his dark sexual desires, his compulsion to control, and the self-loathing that fills his soul drive this girl away and destroy the fragile hope she offers him?

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Oh, Fifty, Fifty, Fifty! What can I say? You remain a complete and total guilty pleasure for me. I was so excited when I heard that she was going to release this book (I totally did a happy dance!). For me, this series is all about Christian and I loved the opportunity to see things through his eyes. He is by far the more compelling, complex, and dynamic character. This book did not disappoint at all. In fact, I think that I like the story from Christian's perspective even more. Don't worry, if you are a fan of the original POV, you still get all the good stuff. 

This book is also by far and away better written then the previous three books, which although I love, are in need of a professional editor. It is clear that Ms. James now has a team behind her, and the result is a much improved writing style. There is still the occasional "one to many times" repeated phrase, but not nearly as many as the other books. It also has an amazing cover.

Grey only covers the first book and there is no word on whether or not James will be releasing the other two books from C's POV. I sincerely hopes that she does. There are so many more scenes that I would love to see through Christian's eyes. I guess we will have to wait and see. If you are a fan of this series, then Grey will not disappoint, in fact, it left me wanting more...

You Were Mine (Rosemary Beach #9) by Abbi Glines

In the eyes of the wealthy playboys who frequent Kerrington Country Club in Rosemary Beach, Tripp Newark is a hero. Under pressure from his parents to become a lawyer and lead a conservative, upper-class life, Tripp disappeared from town five years ago to travel the world, forfeiting the opportunity to inherit millions. Yet few know what he was really running from...

Bethy Lowry was unraveling long before her boyfriend drowned in a riptide trying to save her after she'd had one too many drinks--again. A trailer park kid working as a cart girl among the wealthy patrons of Kerrington Country Club, Bethy has always been impressionable. But five years ago, before she earned her reputation as a hard-drinking, easy girl, she had spent a single summer with Tripp Newark that changed her life forever...

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There isn't much to say about this book, other than it's amazing, just like every other book in the series. I have come to expect perfection from Abbi, especially when it comes to books in this series, and somehow she continues to meet and surpass my high expectations. Tripp and Bethy's story is about regrets and second chances, and makes for an emotional read that will have you hooked from page one. Abbi delivers another great installment in this series complete with everything I have come to expect - heartbreak, drama, sexy times, redemption, and a happy ending. You definitely need to have read the other books in the series before picking this one up. I would not call it a stand alone due to the intertwining of story lines and characters, but this whole series is worth the read anyway, and so is this book. Loved it!

All Broke Down (Rusk University #2) by Cora Carmack

Dylan fights for lost causes. Probably because she used to be one.

Environmental issues, civil rights, corrupt corporations, and politicians you name it, she's probably been involved in a protest. When her latest cause lands her in jail overnight, she meets Silas Moore. He's in for a different kind of fighting. And though he's arrogant and infuriating, she can't help being fascinated with him. Yet another lost cause.

Football and trouble are the only things that have ever come naturally to Silas. And it's trouble that lands him in a cell next to do-gooder Dylan. He's met girls like her before fixers, he calls them, desperate to heal the damage and make him into their ideal boyfriend. But he doesn't think he's broken, and he definitely doesn't need a girlfriend trying to change him. Until, that is, his anger issues and rash decisions threaten the only thing he really cares about: his spot on the Rusk University football team. Dylan might just be the perfect girl to help.

Because Silas Moore needs some fixing after all.

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All Broke Down is the second installment of Cora's Rusk University series, and again, she delivers another great read. In fact, I think this one is better than the first. Silas's story was far more dramatic than Carson's, and I was caught up in his story from the very beginning. Silas's character turned out to be far more complex than would have been expected from the previous novel. At first glance, he is the handsome troublemaker, who loves nothing more than a great party. In truth, he is a man who's past has him teetering on the edge, poised to lose everything that he holds dear. Dylan, despite the fact that she appears to be his opposite in every way, is his perfect counterpoint. What I loved about this couple, is that they truly were equals. It wasn't one saving the other; they both saved each other. They made each other better. While I love a good "rescue" story, I also love when a couple turns out to be a perfect match.

Even if you are not a football fan, this series is still worth your time. The characters are well developed and the story lines are engaging. These books can be read as stand-alones, but there is some overlap with characters and story lines. Book three, All Played Out, is expected to be released in May, 2015.

Cover Reveal ~ Asa (Marked Men #6) by Jay Crownover

We are so excited about the cover reveal for Jay Crownover's ASA! ASA is the sixth and final book in Jay's Marked Men Series, published by HarperCollins. Check out the hot cover and don't forget to pre- order your copy today!

        

Amazon US ** iBooks ** Barnes & Noble ** Kobo

About ASA: Starting over in Denver with a whole new circle of friends and family, Asa Cross struggles with being the man he knows everyone wants him to be and the man he knows he really is. A leopard doesn’t it change its spots and Asa has always been a predator. He doesn’t want to hurt those who love and rely on him, especially one stunning arresting cop who suddenly seems to be interested in him for far more than his penchant for breaking the law. But letting go of old habits is hard, and it’s easy to hit bottom when it’s the place you know best.

 Royal Hastings is quickly learning what the bottom looks like after a tragic situation at work threatens not only her career but her partner’s life. As a woman who has only ever had a few real friends she’s trying to muddle through her confusion and devastation all alone. Except she can’t stop thinking about the sexy southern bartender she locked up. Crushing on Asa is the last thing she needs but his allure is too strong to resist. His long criminal record can only hurt her already shaky career and chasing after a guy who has no respect for the law or himself can only end in heartbreak.

A longtime criminal and a cop together just seems so wrong . . . but for Asa and Royal, being wrong together is the only right choice to make.

  

And don’t miss the previous books in The Marked Men Series!

RULE

JET

ROME

NASH

ROWDY

 And don't miss Jay at 3pm EST over at the Between The Covers page on Facebook today! Come chat with her!

 About Jay Crownover: Jay Crownover is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the Marked Men series. She also introduced the dark and sexy world of The Point that started with BETTER WHEN HE's BAD and is currently working on her newest series The Saint of Denver. Like her characters, she is a big fan of tattoos. She loves music and wishes she could be a rock star, but since she has no aptitude for singing or instrument playing, she'll settle for writing stories with interesting characters that make the reader feel something. She lives in Colorado with her three dogs.

Website ** Blog ** Facebook ** Twitter

ASA Goodreads ** Jay Crownover Goodreads

Rowdy (Marked Men #5) by Jay Crownover

After the only girl he ever loved told him that he would never be enough, Rowdy St. James knocked the Texas dust off his boots and set out to live up to his nickname. A good ol’ boy looking for good times and good friends, Rowdy refuses to take anything too seriously, especially when it comes to the opposite sex. Burned by love once, he isn’t going to let himself trust a woman again. But that’s before his new co-worker arrives, a ghost from the past who’s suddenly making him question every lesson he ever learned.

Salem Cruz grew up in house with too many rules and too little fun—a world of unhappiness she couldn’t wait to forget. But one nice thing from childhood has stayed with her; the memory of the sweet, blue-eyed boy next door who’d been head over heels in love with her little sister.

Now, fate and an old friend have brought her and Rowdy together, and Salem is determined to show him that once upon a time he picked the wrong sister. A mission that is working perfectly—until the one person that ties them together appears, threatening to tear them apart for good.

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Jay Crownover delivers another stellar installment in her Marked Men series. Just like the others, Rowdy is full of heart, with just the right amount of steam, to get you hooked and keep you flying through the pages. Just when I think Jay can't deliver a better book than her last, she surpasses my expectations yet again. There is definitely a level of expectation with NA novels, but what sets Jay's books apart is her ability to create such dynamic characters, and then use them to tell stories that have rather profound perspectives on matters of the heart. Yes, Rowdy has all the things you would expect of a NA novel, but it also eloquently addresses the ideas of destiny, and the idea that when it comes to the heart, sometimes the "lasts" are more important than the "firsts." Not all NA authors are able to do this, to create stories that are so much more than gratuitous "love" stories. This novel, in a word. is perfection.

There is one more book in this series, and I have a feeling that Asa's story is going to be her best one yet. Jay also has a spin-off series in the works. I, for one, will be pre-ordering all of them :) 

Smolder (Crush #4) by Lacey Weatherford

Russ knew true love existed—he’d seen it first hand—he simply didn’t believe it existed for him. And then she walked into his life. Russ didn’t know what had hit him . . . all he knew was that she made him burn.

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This is the final installment in the Crush series by Lacey Weatherford. I was so excited to hear that Russ was getting his own book. He is such a great character - brave, loyal, selfless, ruggedly handsome - that you can't help but root for him and wish him a happy ending. Poor guy is the epitome of "nice guys finish last," which is crazy, because if he was real, I would be all over him in a heartbeat!

Just like the other books in the series, which center around Russ's friends Dylan and Cami, this book is full of drama, mixed in with some danger, suspense, and a whole lot of sexy. There were points in the story that I got a little frustrated with Russ's main squeeze, Evie, and the solution to the inevitable obstacle that drives them apart was a little dragged out, but in the end, I was happy.

You definitely shouldn't read this book until you have read the other books in the series due to spoilers, but it's worth the read.

Tied (Tangled #4) by Emma Chase

In the fourth sexy romance by the New York Times bestselling author of Tangled and Twisted, Drew and Kate can't wait to tie the knot, if they can survive the pre-wedding festivities.

For most of my life, I never imagined I'd get married. But Kate did the impossible: she changed me. I think we can all agree I was pretty frigging awesome before, but now I'm even better.

The road to this day wasn't all rainbows and boners. There were mistakes and misunderstandings worthy of a Greek tragedy. But Kate and I made it through with our inexhaustible lust, boundless admiration, and everlasting love for one another intact.

That being said, there were some unexpected incidents in Vegas last weekend that could have been a problem. It was kind of my final test.

I know what you're thinking, what the hell did you do this time? Relax. Let's not judge, or call for my castration, until you've heard the whole story.

And hold on tight, because you're in for a wild ride. Did you expect anything less?

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Drew Evans is one of my favorite book boyfriends. I love his confidence (or arrogance), his charm, and his sex appeal. I have loved watching him and Kate fall in love and grow as a couple. It was nice to be back inside Drew's head for this final installment, and I can't help but be proud of the man that he has become. What a long way he has come from when we first met him! While I enjoyed that version, I have to say that his final version is so much better. This was the perfect conclusion and happy ending for this couple, and Emma delivers everything you would expect - wit, humor, and plenty of sexy. I once again found myself laughing out loud at some parts, while tearing up at some of the sweeter moments. Fans of the series will not be disappointed.

Angel (Pieces #1.5) by Jamie Canosa

We all hide from the people around us. Strangers, acquaintances, friends, even family only see the parts of ourselves we want them to see. We conceal the cracks and flaws beneath the polished surface we put on display. Because we think we need to. Because we think people won't like us if they see who we really are. Because our egos demand it.

We hide because we're proud. We hide because we're insecure.

But mostly . . . I hid because I was afraid.

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**Note: Angel is the retelling of Falling to Pieces from Caulder's perspective. You should only read this book after you have read Falling to Pieces.

Falling to Pieces was one of the purest love stories that I have ever read. It left me emotionally devastated and in tears, but I don't regret a second I spent with Jade and Kiernan. Jade and Kiernan's story was breathtakingly beautiful and equally as tragic, and Caulder, Kiernan's brother, was there to witness it all. Now we get to see the story from his perspective, and I have to say that I was even more emotionally destroyed seeing the events unfold from Cal's perspective than I was the first time. This is saying something, especially since I already knew what was coming.

 I liked Cal in the previous book, but he became real to me in this book. Cal became a truly dynamic character as his strength, his vulnerability, and his struggles were exposed. He is a character who is trying so desperately to keep it together, that it is only a matter of time before he shatters. I can't wait to see what is in store for him in the next installment in this series. It promises to be epic, and I am impatiently awaiting its release.

One More Chance (Chance #2; Rosmary Beach #8) by Abbi Glines

The unforgettable story of Grant and Harlow from Take a Chance continues in this brand-new novel in the Rosemary Beach series from #1 New York Times bestselling author Abbi Glines.

She was it. His one. His only. Then he made the mistake of letting her go.

After fighting his way into Harlow Manning's heart, and revealing a side of himself no one had ever seen before, Grant Carter destroyed his own heart by giving in to his greatest fears and doubts. Months later, he's stuck in a miserable routine. Work relentlessly. Beg his best friend Rush for news about Harlow. Avoid all other friends. Leave nightly voicemails for Harlow, pleading with her to come back to Rosemary Beach. Fall asleep alone. Repeat.

Miles away, on her brother's Texas ranch, Harlow can't bring herself to listen to Grant's voicemails. Though she wants to be with him, and knows he regrets letting her go, she doesn't know if she can trust him. When he discovered the truth behind her sheltered upbringing, it shattered their relationship, but the secret she carries now has far greater consequences. Can she risk giving Grant one more chance, or will the gamble ultimately destroy her?

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Grant has been one of my favorite characters in the Rosemary Beach series since Blaire pulled her gun on him in Fallen Too Far. I was so excited when Abbi announced that he was going to get his own book, and thrilled to watch his world get rocked by Harlow. Of course, just like all the other guys in this series, he had to go and screw it up, leaving me with a not so happy ending. Thank Heavens, I knew that Abbi was giving him another book, and another chance to fix things.

I have to admit, I totally checked out the teasers for this book, so I already had an idea of where the story was going before I opened it, or at least I thought I did. However, most of the surprises came not from Grant and Harlow, but other characters. I can't believe I'm going to admit this, but after reading this book, I find myself hating Nan less. Never thought that would be possible! We also get to know some previously introduced characters better - Harlow's half brother, Mase - and get introduced to some new characters - Mase's cousin, Major. I'm super exited for Mase's book, and hope that Major gets a book as well, but I digress...

This story is rather emotional, and I found myself choking up, and out right crying throughout the book. Grant and Harlow's second chance is sweet and heart wrenching, and the perfect conclusion for this couple. There are certainly plenty of harrowing moments, but I couldn't imagine a different ending. Once again, Abbi delivers another fantastic novel that kept me flying through its pages (and neglecting some household chores...oh well!).

I can't wait for what's up next in this series. Trip and Bethy's book promises to be an emotional roller coaster, and I can already tell that I am going to be an emotional wreck while reading it. You slay me, Abbi Glines! But I love you for it! 

Rogue (Real #4) by Katy Evans

The fourth story in the new adult series that began with the New York Times bestseller Real, featuring Brooke's best friend, Melanie, and the ROGUE she can't resist.

Greyson King...

My boyfriend. My friend. My protector. He's the reason I wake up every morning with a smile on my face, and the reason I fall asleep limp, worn out, and aching for his warm arms around me. When we make love, he says my name like it means something. Like I mean something.

He Lied.

His name is Greyson King, but his alias is Zero.

There's zero trace of him, he has zero past, and now I know that with him, I will have zero future.
He may leave no trace of him anywhere, but his imprint is in me, in my very soul--and I hate that a mere look at him commands the beat of my heart. The temperature of my body.

I've looked for love my entire life. I've waited for the butterflies, the rainbows...
Instead I'm in a free fall of emotions and there's no one to catch me but the one man I should be running away from. The one man I thought was my prince charming.

Except this prince charming went rogue.

Greyson will stop at nothing to make me be with him. He'll let no one stand in our way, will allow no one to threaten me, and maybe this is what scares me most of all...

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Holy $#*! Balls, Batman! I thought Remy's books were intense, but Katy ups the intensity, the passion, and the sexy in this new installment in the Real series. I found myself blushing profusely, as I sat reading this on the train. However, that didn't stop me from flying through its pages. Greyson is just as intense as Remy, so if you were a fan of his books, then you will love this one too. 

I loved how Melanie's love story turned out not to be conventional. Like so many girls, she dreamed of the prince charming who would come and sweep her off her feet, but Greyson was the exact opposite of what she thought she wanted. Greyson makes for the perfect leading man - tall, dark, damaged, with just the right amount of danger. He is a dark knight, rather than a white knight, and all the more perfect because of it. Their love story is perfectly imperfect.

This book is so full of passion that I'm surprised that it didn't burst into flames in some parts. From the very first page, I was lost to this story. I couldn't put it down, and when I finished it, I had the urge to go back to the beginning and start again. It is the perfect mix of passion, danger, angst, drama, and fairy tale. Another stellar novel from Katy.

Note: You should read the previous books in the series first to avoid spoilers!  

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Up next in the Real series...

Book #5: Ripped

Expected release date: December, 2014

Every woman wants me--except the one I sing for.

Seattle shakes with anticipation: they call it the concert of the year. They say girls are getting pregnant just thinking about my band being in town.

But when you love a girl, you don't leave her with nothing but a ring and a promise. Any man with half a brain should know.

So what did I expect my girl would do when she saw me again?

Well, for starters, she loathes our music. Particularly the song I wrote about her.

When I sing it, the stadium is in an uproar. Thousands of fans scream my name like I'm a god--but yeah, not her. Crystal clear: the girl's not happy to see me.

Black hair, black boots, a bad attitude, that's her -- Pandora Stone is a freaking man-eater and she's out for my blood.

Ugly Love by Colleen Hoover

When Tate Collins meets airline pilot Miles Archer, she knows it isn’t love at first sight. They wouldn’t even go so far as to consider themselves friends. The only thing Tate and Miles have in common is an undeniable mutual attraction. Once their desires are out in the open, they realize they have the perfect set-up. He doesn’t want love, she doesn’t have time for love, so that just leaves the sex. Their arrangement could be surprisingly seamless, as long as Tate can stick to the only two rules Miles has for her.

Never ask about the past.
Don’t expect a future.

They think they can handle it, but realize almost immediately they can’t handle it at all.

Hearts get infiltrated.
Promises get broken.
Rules get shattered.
Love gets ugly.

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Miles. Miles. Miles. Miles. That's all I have to say after reading this book. Colleen delivers another fantastic read that left me emotionally slain and a sobbing puddle. Colleen has the amazing ability to create characters that you instantly connect with, and they take you on emotional journeys full of highs and lows. Every time I pick up one of her books I think, "It can't get better than this," but she continues to put these stories out into the world that just keep getting better.

What I loved about this book was its honesty. Love is UGLY sometimes, and this book portrays that raw brokenness so beautifully. Love is a powerful thing - it can tear you down just as quickly as it can build you up. When love gets ugly, it leaves room for fear and doubt, and can leave you closed off and dead inside, which is exactly where Miles was. Miles' story is truly heartbreaking, and left me feeling shattered. I loved how his story was revealed slowly throughout the book, instead of all at once. Every time I thought I had it figured out, another piece would be revealed, and I would find myself surprised and my heart breaking just a little bit more. The devastation that I felt over Miles' story, only made me root for his and Tate's relationship even more (because I'm a sucker for a happy ending, just as much as the next girl!)

I couldn't put this book down. I was so emotionally invested in it, that I became all but obvious to my surroundings while reading it. Have some tissues handy while reading this book, as it will not just pull on your heartstrings, but damn near rip them out of your chest. I cannot say enough good things about this book. It definitely earned a book hug, and left me with a book hangover. I found myself thinking about it, and going back and rereading passages days after I had finished it. It's amazing. Read it. 

Tamed (Tangled #3) by Emma Chase

Tamed is the third installment in the Tangled series, and this time we get to see the world through the eyes of Matthew Fisher, Drew's best friend. Matthew is every bit the playboy that Drew is, but maybe not as cynical. Matthew is fine with playing the field, especially after getting his heart ripped out in college. Sure he plans on settling down and getting married someday, but for now he is content to have fun with all the Ms. Wrongs he meets along the way.

When Matthew meets Dee Dee, Kate's best friend, he knows right away that there is something special about her. But Dee Dee has been burned too many times, and despite the connection she has with Matthew, she is hesitant to jump into a full on relationship with him. The more time Matthew spends with Dee Dee, the more he wants to convince her to trust him and let him in. The question is: can she do it?

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Emma Chase delivers another great installment in this series with Tamed. I can see why Matthew and Drew are best friends, and by the end of this book, I loved Matthew just as much as Drew. One of my favorite things about this series is the humor. This book is just as laugh out loud funny as Drew's book. I love Emma's leading men - they are sexy, smart, witty, arrogant, and dripping with confidence. I love watching them get knocked on their asses by love. Dee Dee is also a great character. She is vivacious and strong, with just the right amount of vulnerability to make her believable and easy to relate to. 

The humor in this book is probably not for everyone, but I think it is sarcasm at its finest. I'm always impressed when I remember that this book is written by a female, because she so perfectly nails the male POV. I've even read passages to my guy friends to make sure, and they pretty much say she nails the nail on the head when it comes to the male perspective. Tamed is well worth the read, especially if you are looking for a good laugh mixed in with your romance.

The fourth installment in this series, Tied, is due out in October, and I for one can't wait to see what's in store for this group of characters.

Until We Fly (Beautifully Broken #4) by Courtney Cole

Brand Killien has spent his life trying to be good - a good friend, a good soldier, a good everything - all in an effort to overcome a past where he was told repeatedly that he wasn't good enough. But after having his heart broken again, Brand is done being the good guy and is determined to never let anyone in again.

When a family emergency brings Brand reluctantly back to his hometown, his path crosses Nora Greene's in a dramatic turn of events. Nora has loved Brand from a far since she was a teenager. No one has ever been able to measure up to Brand's goodness, and Nora is determined to make him hers, even if he fights her every step of the way, and even if it can only be for a short while.

Both Brand and Nora have dark secrets and are scarred from their broken pasts. Their relationship was only supposed to be a fling, but as they grow closer, more and more of their pasts are exposed, and they slowly begin to help each other heal. However, when Nora's past comes back to threaten not only her, but Brand as well, she is forced to make a decision that could mean the end of her and Brand, unless they are both willing to fight back.

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Brand, Brand, Brand! I have been waiting (rather impatiently) for this book to be released. If you haven't read the Beautifully Broken series, then you need to ASAP! These books are amazing and are a prime example of what makes the New Adult genre so fantastic. Each of these stories is about loss and love, and are packed with angst, emotion, heart, and plenty of steam as well. My heart squeezed for Brand from the first moment he appeared on the page. I can totally see why he was Nora's fantasy, because he really is perfect. He is good, brave, loyal, protective, sweet, just anything you could want. He's the kind of book boyfriend that makes you lament the fact that guys like him only exist in fiction.

I was so happy to hear that Courtney was giving him his own book, because he really did deserve his own happy ending. What I wasn't expecting was his totally gut wrenching back story. I shouldn't have been too surprised, seeing as every other book in the series involves a heartbreaking back story. All the story really did was make me love Brand even more. I liked how Nora also had a broken past as well. It made for a highly emotional read and kept me flying through the pages. The resolution of the story had me crying and this book earned a big book hug at the end. I highly recommend this series.

Beautiful Oblivion (Maddox Brothers #1) by Jamie McGuire

The Maddox brothers have a reputation for being trouble, and Trenton Maddox's reputation is well known around Eastern State University. Dating co-eds even before graduating from high school, Trenton was the kind of guy that his friends wanted to be, and women wanted to be with, until a tragic accident changed the course of his life. Now he is living at home with his widower father, and working at a tattoo parlor to help pay the bills. His life takes another unexpected turn when he notices Cami, a girl that he has loved from afar, sitting alone at a table at The Red.

Cami has been on her own since she was sixteen, when she left to escape her dysfunctional family. She spends every waking moment working and studying, and has little time for anything else. On the night that Trenton sees her at The Red, she is nursing a bruised heart after her boyfriend calls to cancel her weekend trip to see him. Cami knows all about the Maddox brothers and is not interested in getting involved with Trenton, but she can't deny that she feels a pull towards him.

Trenton won't take no for an answer, and the two quickly develop a friendship that leaves them both wanting more. Even when things fall apart with Cami's boyfriend, she is still hesitant to start something with Trenton. She has a secret that she knows will make Trenton hate her if he knew. A secret so big, it has the power to rock his family to the core. Even though she warns him, Trenton doesn't care, because when a Maddox boy falls in love, he loves forever. When her secret is revealed, Trenton will find himself facing the most important decision of his life.

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I first fell in love with the Maddox boys when I read Jamie's Beautiful Disaster Series, featuring Travis Maddox. There truly is something special about these boys. They love fiercely, are so loyal, and are just the right mix of big-hearted and bad boy. I was super excited when I heard that Jamie was going to give Travis's brothers their own books, and I wasn't disappointed. While a little less dramatic that Travis's story, Beautiful Oblivion is still a fantastic read and has everything that I loved about the previous series - a hot male lead, a strong female lead, humor, heart, and heat. 

I have to say what made this book for me was the very last chapter. The whole book was great, but the final chapter contained a twist in the story that I didn't expect. Let's just say that Cami's secret...well, it's a big one! While the ending wasn't a cliffhanger, it definitely caused a jaw dropping, OMG moment, and left me dying to know what's next for the Maddox clan.

I would definitely suggest reading the Beautiful Disaster Series before reading Beautiful Oblivion, as events in this book overlap with events in the previous series. If you read it out of order, it will spoil some things for you. No word on when we can expect the next book in the Maddox Brothers Series, but I will be snatching it up as soon as it is released.

This Time (Moments #3) by Marie Hall

Tor Boler has wanted Jamie Sullivan since the first moment he saw her eight years ago. The problem is, she doesn't see him. Jamie is still wrapped up in her on again off again boyfriend, Angel. However when Jamie receives a phone call that Angel has overdosed again, she wants nothing more than to get lost in someone and forget.

Tor asks her to stay with him, hoping that this time he can make her really see him. But Jamie never imaged that their one night of passion would make her feel alive for the first time in years, or that the consequences of that night would forever change her life. But making a relationship work with Tor isn't simple, especially since her past won't let her go.

This is the third and final installment of the Moments Series, and I wasn't disappointed. I loved this series, mostly because the characters had to overcome some pretty series obstacles to find love. It made for an angsty and emotional ride. The story had everything that you would want in a NA novel - romance, turmoil, steamy scenes, and a happy ending. Definitely worth the read.

Better When He's Bad (Welcome to the Point #1) by Jay Crownover

Shane Baxter is from the wrong side of the tracks. In fact, he's not just a bad boy, he's the definition of a bad boy, and he revels in it. A thief to the core, Bax has no problem taking what he wants - women, cars, and anything in between. Out after spending the last five years in prison after a job involving his best friend goes bad, Bax is looking for answers, and he is determined to get them no matter what he has to do. His quest for the truth leads him to the doorstep of Dovie Pryce, the sister of his best friend, Race.

Dovie Pryce has led anything but an easy life. Her one saving grace has been her brother, Race, but now he has disappeared, leaving her with only one clue: trust the man with the star tattoo. When Bax breaks into her apartment, Dovie knows that Bax is her only chance to find her brother, and she refuses to sit back and wait, especially since everyone in The Point is after Race. When Dovie is threatened in an effort to smoke Race out, Bax steps in and finds himself in the role of her protector.

As the two of them search for Race, they find themselves in a series of dangerous situations that bring them closer and closer. Bax will discover that maybe he's not all bad, and Dovie will discover that some boys are just better when they are bad.

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I don't know how Jay Crownover does it, but she manages to write story after story that just keep getting better. I love each and every one of Jay's books, and her guys are among my top book boyfriends. Bax is a whole other level of bad boy, and completely different from any of her other characters. While the men in the Marked Men Series appear bad, in reality they are just a bunch of playboys whose appearance gives the perception of badness. Bax's badness is more than appearance. He is a real bad boy. In fact, Jay managed to somehow make me swoon over a convicted criminal! Not something that my anti-crime moral code would typically allow. 

But just like Jay's marked men, there is more to Bax than meets the eye. Yes, he is a criminal, and he revels in living that life, but he is also loyal, protective, and capable of fierce love. These seemingly contradictory sides make for a compelling, dynamic, and complex male lead, which in turn, makes for a suspenseful, exciting, and thrilling story. Better When He's Bad is not your typical love story, and yet there are some things that still ring true - the realization that we all are more than the sum of our parts, and loving someone means loving everything about them; the sacrifices true love compels us to make; and that home really is where the heart is.

This is the perfect start to what will no doubt turn into another great series from Jay. It's definitely darker and grittier than anything we have seen before, but the story is still full of heart. It has all the steaminess that we have come to expect, but still remains a truly unique love story. I can't wait for the next book in the series, Better When He's Bold, which is Race and Brysen's story, which we should expect in January or February of 2015. I'm also hoping that Bax's brother, Titus, will get his own book. Bring on some more bad boys!

Love (Crush #3) by Lacey Weatherford

Cami and Dylan's love story is anything but conventional, but two years later, they are still living their happily ever after and expecting their first baby. When strange things start happening around the house, at first Cami thinks she is being forgetful, but it soon becomes clear that someone is trying to send Cami and Dylan a message.

As things escalate, Cami and Dylan are forced into hiding as the police scramble to figure out who has targeted them, and leaving Dylan desperate to protect Cami at all costs. While Cami and Dylan have faced danger, heartbreak, and tragedy before, this new threat will push them and their love to new limits. 

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I must admit that I did not really think that this series needed another book, but having enjoyed the previous two books, I wasn't going to pass this one by. It turned out to be nothing like what I expected. It picks up two years after the end of Smitten, and Cami and Dylan are exactly where you would expect them to be - living in a swoon worthy fantasy bubble. Unfortunately, this bubble doesn't last and Lacey not only pops this bubble, but explodes it. While it became obvious that a threat from Cami and Dylan's past was going to resurface and cause trouble early in the book, I wasn't prepared for what actually happened. This book took a tragic twist that kept getting worse and worse, and I found myself not only heartbroken, but soul crushingly sad. Lacey definitely pushes the limits of love in this book. The result is a wholly unexpected story that will lead you on a suspenseful and emotional journey, and reaffirm your belief in the power of true love.

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Up next in the series...It's Russ's turn to find love...

Book IV: Smolder

Expected release date: October 2014

Russ knew true love existed—he’d seen it first hand—he simply didn’t believe it existed for him. And then she walked into his life. Russ didn’t know what had hit him . . . all he knew was that she made him burn.