Tag Archives: Music

Review: Be The One (Crave #2) by Nina Levine

Posted on April 26, 2016 by Amy-OUABB

Rock star Jett Vaughn has one thing on his mind these days – Presley Hart. He will do anything it takes to make her his. At least, he thinks he will.

Presley Hart wants one thing in life – a man who will make her his number one. After being married to a man who never put her first, she swore she’d never settle for second best again. At least, she thought she wouldn’t.

When Jett’s life comes crashing down around him, his flaws are laid bare for all to see. Presley stands by her man but there’s only so much she can do to help him. She loves him and wants to be with him but she has her limits and Jett’s about to reach them.

In the midst of hurt, loss and destruction, can love win out? Can a man who is struggling to find his way, show the woman he loves just how much he wants her to be the one? Or is there only so much a heart can take before enough’s enough?

My Review

“Life’s too short to not dance in the rain, sweetheart. It’s why I’m here with you, and it’s why I’ll always fight for what I want. Even when life throws shit at me, I refuse to shut down and stop living life to the fullest.”

It’s been a while since I’ve been in the world of Jett and Presley and I gotta tell you, I am kicking myself for waiting so long to see how their story would play out. Now, you would think that since it’s been so long since I read the first book, I’d need a refresher on who the characters were and how their story left off, but I am happy to tell you that was not the case. From the moment I started reading Jett and Presley’s story, everything came flooding back to me. I remembered why I fell so hard for these two. Now, I gotta tell you, their road to HEA was not an easy one. No, in order for Jett and Presley to get their HEA, they both had some growing up and some fighting to do. And boy did they fight.

Jett and Presley do not disappoint in Be the One. Their connection and chemistry is stronger than ever. And if I ever had any doubts in these two, this book laid all my fears to rest. What Jett and Presley had was real. It was the kind of love that was worth fighting for. You know the saying, ‘anything worth having, you have to fight for.’, well that saying proved to definitely be true in this book. Jett and Presley had a lot to work through on their journey to HEA and I enjoyed watching every single second of their story unfold.

Be the One was a fantastic follow up to All Your Reasons. This book was filled with lots of angst, drama and romance. This book will make you laugh. It will make you cry. It will frustrate the heck out of you. And I can say is that this book will take you on one wild, angst filled ride and all you can do is hold on and enjoy it. In the end, I hope you will love this story and the characters as much as I have.

*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*

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Posted in 5 Stars, Adult, Amy, NA, Reviews and tagged Music. Bookmark the permalink.

Review: True Love (Songbird #5) by Melissa Pearl

Posted on December 9, 2015 by Amy-OUABB

One night can change everything…

Nessa Sloan has been in love with Jimmy Baker since the ninth grade when they started up a rock band together. Five years later they’re about to hit the big time—Chaos wins a recording contract and nation-wide tour with Torrence Records. After their celebration party, the two best friends have a one-night stand that will tear their relationship apart.

On the run from Jimmy’s rejection, Nessa takes off on her motorbike, but an accident brings her escape to a tragic end. Now trapped in a broken body, Nessa has to face a future stripped of the one thing that’s gotten her through every past challenge—playing the drums.

Jimmy never meant to break his best friend’s heart, and he will forever regret taking her to bed then treating her like one of his groupies. But once he’d crossed that line, he couldn’t go back. Now Jimmy is on a mission to do something he’s never done before—win a girl over.

Angry and confused by her new disability, Nessa doesn’t want Jimmy’s help. But she has nobody else to rely on…and his pigheaded ass won’t leave her alone. Can these two stubborn hearts get past their own insecurities to figure out what true love really looks like? Or will they drive each other crazy before they finally see the truth?

It’s infuriating, irresistible, and all-consuming…it’s true love.

My Review

“The lyrics for “I Miss You” soaked into me, leaving me hollow. I wanted her back. Chaos was nothing without her. I was nothing without her”

True Love follows the story of Nessa and Jimmy. Nessa has been in love with Jimmy for five long years, but Jimmy has never treated her like more than a friend. However, on the night that Chaos wins a recording contract, everything changes. Jimmy and Nessa cross a line that will never be able to be uncrossed. The next morning, Jimmy of course freaks out and makes the worst decision possible. He’s letting the fear of becoming like his father, ruin the best thing that’s ever happened to him….Nessa was destroyed by Jimmy’s rejection, so she did what she does best; she ran. However, while Nessa was on the run, she never imagined the course her life was about to take. You see, Nessa was involved in a motorcycle accident and for a musician, this accident was life changing. Now, Nessa will have to figure out how to live her new life and will have to count on the one person she hates. Jimmy is devastated and terrified that he lost Nessa. While this accident sucks, Jimmy hopes that this will be his change to show Nessa that he messed up, that he was wrong and that he is worthy of her. Will Nessa be able to forgive Jimmy for all the pain that he’s caused???

True Love is the 5th book in the Songbird Series, but can totally be read as a stand-alone. This is my first book by this author and I’m sure it will not be my last. Songbird was a quick and easy read for me. I found the story-line to be captivating. I connected with the characters right away. I loved the push and pull between Nessa and Jimmy. Yes, Jimmy did some really stupid things. There were so many times that I wished I could just jump into my kindle and slap him across his face for his stupidity. But, Jimmy was a young guy and while I don’t agree with his behavior, I do understand to an extent, why he did the things that he did. I felt that he did redeem himself later on in the story and he did prove to have some swoon-worthy moments. Nessa, I adored her. She went through so, so much. I can’t even imagine how she must of felt; first with the rejection from Jimmy, but then her accident. I was really pleased with how much her character grew by the end of the story.

Overall, I found this book to be quiet enjoyable. I thought it was a great second chance romance. True Love had a good mix of angst and romance and drama. I liked that the story was told from dual points of view. I thought the characters were great and easy to connect with. I am curious about the other books in this series and wouldn’t mind going back and getting caught up on the other characters stories.

*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, via the author, in exchange for an honest review*

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Posted in 4 Stars, Amy, NA and tagged Music, second chance romance. Bookmark the permalink.

Release Day Blitz with Review: My Soul To Keep by Kennedy Ryan

Posted on November 16, 2015 by Amy-OUABB

Synopsis

It seems the things worth keeping are often the hardest to hold…

KAI

I had two things in life that mattered. My mother and my music.
Mama was taken from me too soon, and now music is all I have left. It’s the thing that’s pushed me right out of backwoods Georgia into Los Angeles, where the line between fantasy and reality shimmers and blurs. I’m finally making my way, making my mark. I can’t afford to fall for one of music’s brightest stars. Not now. Music is all I have left, and I’m holding on tight with both hands. I won’t let go, not even for Rhyson Gray.

RHYSON

I had one thing in my life that mattered – music. The only constant, it’s taken me to heights most people only dream about; a gift dropped in my lap at birth. I thought it was enough. I thought it was everything until I met Kai. Now she’s all I think about, like a song I can’t get out of my head. If I have to chase her, if I have to give up everything – I will. And once she’s mine, I won’t let go.

Goodreads

My Review

“I don’t know this piece, but it knows me. Each note slides in, occupying some corner of my soul that’s been barren and empty. And the melody breezes in, scattering dust and cobwebs. Breathing in life. This music, with its rushing crescendos and heavy turns, refreshes me, and I have no idea why. Is it the music? Is it him? Are they separate or inextricably entwined? I love music and I know like my own name that this is what I’m meant to do, but I’ve never been moved this way by it. Not this deeply, this thoroughly. Like those fingers touching those keys are actually touching me. And though I’m completely covered, If feel naked and exposed. I can only hope that no one sees. That he won’t see.”

My Soul To Keep is my first book by Kennedy Ryan and I have to tell you, I am blown away! From the moment I picked up this book, I was hooked. I was lost. I was consumed by the beautiful writing. I found myself highlighting section after section. I wanted to remember each beautiful word; each beautiful moment.

“These notes, these lyrics, these moments feel holy. Pure. Clean. Our voices twine around each other, meshing and separating, blending, bowing, and rising up, up, up until it’s too much. There’s no holding the tears back. The way our voices wrap around one another, joy and sorrow do the same.”

My Soul To Keep follows the story of Kai and Rhyson. Kai has been consumed by the pain of the loss of her mother. She feels lost; trapped. She’s just trying to take one day at time. She works hard and doesn’t have time for much else. Between her jobs, paying off her mom’s debts and trying to make her own dreams come true, the last thing she was prepared for was Rhyson. Rhyson makes Kai feel and want things. He has awaken a part of her soul that she thought was asleep. But, she is terrified and thinks that the only thing that she can offer Rhys is just friendship. She is afraid to take the jump; to take that risk….Rhyson is living the dream. He’s making music and going on tour. But, his life has been anything but easy. Rhyson has his own demons to contend with and being around Kai is like a breathe of fresh air to him. She’s all he can think about and will do anything to make her his…..

My Soul To Keep was such a fantastic read. I could not put this book down. I had to know more about Kai and Rhyson. I loved that their story was told from dual points of view. Their story was so captivating. It demanded all of my attention. The words demanding that I not forget them. I loved the slow burn of Kai and Rhyson’s relationship. They really took the time to build their friendship and fought so hard to just be friends. It was only a matter of time before the two of them gave into what they both so desperately wanted. “There’s a tinder between us, waiting for just a spark to ignite to full-blown flame. The connection is always there, latent or alive, but right now, so close with our bodies touching, it burns through our clothing and heats my skin.”

“With just touch, we’ve discovered a new intimacy. A path sprang up that no one but us can follow, taking us to a place that no one else can find. And there, with our hearts as witnesses, our bodies make a vow that our souls will keep.”

I loved everything about this book from start to finish. I loved the romance, the angst, the writing, the beautiful story and of course the characters. I will warn you that this story does end on a bit of a cliffhanger. I am already wishing that February was almost here, so I can find out what will happen next. I am so happy that it’s not too long of a wait!

Kennedy Ryan is a new author to me and has completely blown me away with this book. Her characters are real, and flawed. They are totally easy to relate to and connect with. She has definitely made a fan out of me and I am really excited to check out more of her books.

*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review.*

Excerpt

I shouldn’t have come. All the things I felt and fought, the things I suspected he felt too, he just spewed all over me. And as much as I want to be, I’m not sure I’m ready. I’ll never forget seeing my Mama in bed for days after Daddy left. And even though she got up, I suspect a part of her never left that bed, but just stayed there, waiting. We had to leave the house where she grew up and where I spent my first years, because Daddy left us with nowhere to go. Mama learned to stand on her two feet, and I’ve done the same. I just didn’t count on Rhyson sweeping me off of them.

“We’re obviously on different pages about this.” I pull my hands free and turn to leave, but he steps in front of me, blocking my grand exit. “Let’s talk later.”

“Enough talking.”
The heat of his body grabs me before his hands do. He traps my chin between two fingers, taking my mouth in a paradox of rough and tender. I want to move. To slide away from his body pressing me into the pool table. But I can’t. Not with his hand caressing my back. Not with his tongue in my mouth. Not with his erection pressing into my stomach. I can’t. I won’t. I have been denying myself this, and I’m so damn hungry. My mouth opens under his, ravenous and wet and hot. His groan vibrates against my lips.

“Yes. Good God, yes, Pep.” His words slip down my throat.

I strain up on tiptoes, clawing my fingers into his dark hair, forcing him closer. He lifts me onto the pool table, planting himself between my knees. His fingers skim my bare thigh, working up my leg until he reaches a damp patch of silk. He pushes my panties aside, rubbing his hand into the wet flesh there before sliding one long finger and then another inside of me. I rock into these fingers which have awed millions with their skill. They own me. I’m the instrument in his hands. He’s playing me. Plucking at me. Strumming me.

He tugs at the wide neck of my sweater until it falls away from my shoulder, slipping his hand in and cupping my naked breast. He brushes his fingers over my nipple, and I lose my mind and every inhibition. My head flops back and I stretch my legs wider, offering him anything he wants.

“Are you kidding me?” His question burns the vulnerable curve of my neck as he drags his lips to my shoulder. “You come here wearing no bra and think I won’t…”

He abandons the words, his dark, untidy head disappearing under my sweater, and before I have time to regain even millimeters of sanity, my nipple is in his mouth and he’s suckling me. Not gentle. Not soft. My breasts are so small, he almost eats me whole. Every draw, every suck, every bite sends a power surge to my core until my knees hold his hips in a desperate grip, and my nails rake across the flat surface of the pool table behind me.
His mouth at my breast. His fingers inside me. His clean scent surrounding me. I have nowhere to hide anymore. I am exposed. I want to spread myself wide open for him. That voice that has been telling me I can’t rely on him. I can’t trust him. I can’t need him—that voice is stunned into silence by his thorough possession of my body, by the inferno between my legs, blazing a hole right through my soul and scorching my heart.

Buy Link

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B017ZXWV2Y

Giveaway

a Rafflecopter giveaway
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Playlist

About Kennedy Ryan

I just can’t write about myself in third person for one more bio! I’m a wife, a mom, a writer, an advocate for families living with autism. That’s me in a nutshell. Crack the nut, and you’ll find a Southern girl gone Southern California who loves pizza and Diet Coke, and wishes she got to watch a lot more television. You can usually catch me up too late, on social media too much, or FINALLY putting a dent in my ever-growing To Be Read list!

Connect with Kennedy

Facebook / Amazon/ Twitter/ Newsletter / Goodreads / Instagram

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Posted in 4.5 Stars, Amy, NA and tagged Music. Bookmark the permalink.

Review: Missing Dixie (Neon Dreams #3) by Caisey Quinn

Posted on October 27, 2015 by Amy-OUABB

Fighting for redemption…

I’ve lived most of my life in darkness, beneath the shadows of secrets and addictions. The last thing I ever wanted to do was hurt the only girl I’d ever loved-the one who brought me into the light. In my entire life I’d made one promise-a promise I’d intended to keep. I’ve broken that promise and now I have to live with the fallout. Dixie Lark hates me, and I have to tell her that I love her. I also have to tell her a truth that might destroy us forever.

Can she love me even if she can’t forgive me?

Learning to move on…

Gavin Garrison broke his promise to my brother and he broke my heart in the process. I may never love anyone the way I’ve loved him, but at least I won’t spend my life wondering what if. We had our one night and he walked away. I’m finally beginning to move on when my brother’s wedding and a battle of the bands brings us back together.

Our band is getting a second chance, but I don’t know if I can give him one. How do you hand your heart back to the person who set it on fire once already?

My Review

“We are all broken. That’s how the light gets in.”

Oh, how I’ve waited for this book. I have been dying for the conclusion of Gavin and Dixie’s story ever since I finished Leaving Amarillo. My heart was broken and I had to know how things would play out. And let me tell you, Missing Dixie was so worth the wait.

Missing Dixie pretty much picks up where both Leaving Amarillo and Loving Dallas left off. Dixie is trying her hardest to live a life without Gavin. He told her to wait for him, but so many things had changed. There was so much pain and unknown. My heart ached for these two broken souls. Their pain so real and palpable. You could literally fell the angst and turmoil roll off the pages. With lines like these: “I am a walking, talking, living, breathing storm cloud waiting to burst and rain on everyone else’s parade” or “Being with Gavin was the last time I felt truly alive–like I finally belonged where I was meant to be. But like all happiness, it was fleeting.” or “My heart belongs to his heart. And whether he thinks he deserves me or not, his soul is forever connected to mine.”, it’s impossible not to get caught up in their story and feel their pain.

Gavin and Dixie’s road to happily ever after is definitely not an easy one. They both have a tough road to go down and Gavin not only has a lot of explaining to do, but he’s also got a lot of demons to conquer. Gavin and Dixie’s story is beautiful, raw and intense. It will take you on a roller-coaster ride of emotions and will leave you hoping and praying that things will turn out ok in the end.

Missing Dixie is the perfect conclusion to Gavin and Dixie’s story. The writing is beautiful and captivating. It pulls you in and completely consumes you; making you get lost in Gavin and Dixie’s story. It will make you laugh. It will make you cry. It will frustrate you. It will make you want to throw your kindle across the room! But, it will also give you hope. It will make you want to forgive. And most of all, it will make you fall in love with these amazing, broken characters. Caisey Quinn has completely blown me away with how much heart and soul she put into this story. She gave me everything that I needed and more.

As I close up this review, I am going to leave you with two quotes. These two quotes are beautiful in their own way and really sum up the awesomenesss of Caisey Quinn’s writing….“Life doesn’t always turn out how you expect and sometimes parts of you get broken along the way, but there is always hope and even broken pieces can be rebuilt into something beautiful.” and “Sometimes that’s all love is. Giving the other person what they need despite the price, despite the sacrifice or possibly painful outcome.”

*I was provided an ARC copy of this book via Edelweiss and the publisher, in exchange for an honest review*

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Posted in 5 Stars, Amy, NA and tagged Edelweiss, Music. Bookmark the permalink.

Review: Never Over You (Never Over You #3) by Ryleigh Andrews

Posted on August 24, 2015 by Amy-OUABB

Strange how life deals the cards sometimes …

Life was perfect for Mia Devereux.

“You can always have me, Mia. I’m always yours. Forever, suga.”

She had everything she always wanted.

But maybe life wasn’t so perfect after all.

One event threatens her happily ever after.
Will Mia revert to her old ways of dealing with her pain?
Or will she fight?
Or will the hurt simply be too much to handle?

Can she get past the pain and recapture the life she so desperately wanted?

My Review

“I’m working on me…slow but sweetly.

I will find my way…slow but sweetly.

Baby, I’ll love you…slow but sweetly.

I’ll love you, my dear…endlessly.

Baby, please don’t turn away from me.

Remember I’ll love you…slow but sweetly.”

Wow! What an incredible read! Never Over You was a fantastic follow up to Still Into You and will leave you breathless. You won’t know whether you want to be happy, sad or mad; maybe a little of both…

Never Over You picks up right where the last book left off. Mia and Ethan are finally getting to start their forever, but life has other plans in store for them. Mia and Ethan’s relationship will be tested in ways neither of them ever thought possible. And when it’s all said and done, you’ll be wondering, Is love enough?

From the moment I started reading this book, I was hooked. I could not put it down. I devoured each word. I was hooked on Mia and Ethan. I wanted to see them happy and enjoying their happily ever after. However, their story had it’s fair share of ups and downs. The trials that Mia and Ethan faced were so relateable, so easy to understand. They both hurt each other badly. Some ways more obvious then the others. Their emotions so palpable, so consuming. My heart went out to the both of them as they tried to work past the pain and despair. I found myself cheering them on, wanting them to fight for their family, their love, their HEA. Their story filled me with so much love, hope, anger and frustration. There was a time I even felt like throwing my kindle-that’s how much their story effected me.

Never Over You was beautifully written and captivating. This is a story about forgiveness, hope, love, strength and facing your fears. It had just the right amount of angst, drama, romance and frustration. I’m sad that Mia and Ethan’s story is over, but couldn’t be happier with the way things turn out. I can not wait to read more from this author in the future.

*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review.*

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Posted in 4.5 Stars, Amy, NA and tagged Music, Sports. Bookmark the permalink.

Cover Reveal: Missing Dixie (Neon Dreams #3) by Caisey Quinn

Posted on August 15, 2015 by Amy-OUABB

Synopsis

Fighting for redemption…

I’ve lived most of my life in darkness, beneath the shadows of secrets and addictions. The last thing I ever wanted to do was hurt the only girl I’d ever loved—the one who brought me into the light. In my entire life I’d made one promise—a promise I’d intended to keep. I’ve broken that promise and now I have to live with the fallout. Dixie Lark hates me, and I have to tell her that I love her. I also have to tell her a truth that might destroy us forever.

Can she love me even if she can’t forgive me?

Learning to move on…

Our band is getting a second chance, but I don’t know if I can give him one. How do you hand your heart back to the person who set it on fire once already?

BUY LINKS:

AMAZON

BARNES & NOBLE

HarperCollins Publishers

Happy Ever After Blog Exclusive with USA Today: An awesome chat about NA with Caisey Quinn, Cora Carmack, and Sophie Jordan! http://www.usatoday.com/story/happyeverafter/2015/08/14/missing-dixie-cover-reveal-caisey-quinn-new-adult-carmack-jordan/31643511/

GET SOCIAL WITH CAISEY QUINN:

http://caiseyquinnwrites.com/

https://www.facebook.com/AuthorCaiseyQuinn?fref=ts

https://twitter.com/CaiseyQuinn

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/24951836-missing-dixie?ac=1

Giveaway link: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/97a55ed458/

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Posted in Amy, Cover Reveal, NA and tagged Music. Bookmark the permalink.

Release Day Blitz: The Truth of Tristan Lyons (Legendary Rock Stars #4) by L.B. Dunbar

Posted on July 28, 2015 by Amy-OUABB

Title: The Truth of Tristan Lyons

Series: Legendary Rock Stars #4

Author: L.B. Dunbar

Genre: Rock Star Romance

Release Date: July 27, 2015

Blurb

Heartbreaker. I understand why I have the nickname. Hey, what can I say? I like women. All women. It doesn’t matter what shape, size, or color. I’m even into sharing. I’ve done it all, seen it all, but I’m at an all-time low. Who wouldn’t be? My best friend is missing. My uncle’s an asshole. I don’t know who I am without The Nights. We are a band of brothers, soldiering through the world with our music. Only, our faithful leader is gone, and everyone else in the band is falling for the oldest trap: love. Love is a lie. It is painful. It is hurtful. I need a break. I want to be alone. I’m not prepared to share the exclusive home on the Island. I’m not prepared for her. I don’t know who she is or why she’s here. She tells me to call her Ireland. I tell her my first name only. Originally, I don’t want to believe she doesn’t recognize me. Bass guitarist for The Nights, come on? After a while we both play the game. Secrets are another form of lies, aren’t they?

Our fantasy will crash to reality too soon. Secrets catch up to you. The truth has to be told. It confirms what I already know: love is a lie.

Until her.

ADD TO GOODREADS

Links to Buy

AMAZON US / UK

Also Available

AMAZON US / UK

iBOOKS / B&N / KOBO

AMAZON US / UK

B&N / KOBO

AMAZON US / UK

iBOOKS / B&N / KOBO

Excerpt

The Truth of Tristan Lyons excerpt © L.B. Dunbar

I wanted to know who she was. Scratch that, I didn’t care who she was. I wanted
to know how she got in the house. Damn these fangirls, sometimes. They knew no shame.

“Hey,”
I said grabbing her upper arm. “How did you get in here?”

She seemed caught unaware of my approach and screamed loudly, pushing at my chest
hard enough, the sheer surprise forced me to let go of her.

With her hand on her chest and her breasts rising and falling in great agitation, I
was able to see her big blue eyes and the sprinkle of freckles across her nose.
Her chin length blonde hair fell forward as she bent to clasp her knees and
catch her breath.

Standing up almost as quickly as she bent over, she spoke to me through delicious
looking pink lips.

“Who the fuck are you?” she growled.

“Who the fuck, are you?” I returned.

“I’m…”

“You know what, never mind. You need to go,” I said, cutting her off and reaching
for her upper arm again. “I don’t know how you got in here, where you came
from, or how you found me, but you need to go.”

I began to tug her toward the front entry, her feet sliding in her flip-flops
across the tile flooring. She pulled back, and the force made her skid on an
angle across the slippery surface as I dragged her. She continued to glare at
me quizzically, leaning away from me.

“I don’t know what you are talking about?”

“Did you follow me, is that it? See me in the airport?”

“What?”

“Okay,
I love you too, now you need to go. Okay?”

“What are you talking about?”

“Don’t pretend you don’t know who I am?”

“I don’t.”

I stopped, still holding firmly to her arm. Something in her voice sounded like
she was being serious.

“I’m Tristan.”

She blinked, confusion clearly on her face. I was thoughtful for a moment. It was
the innocence in her blue eyes, and the fact she looked like she might cry.
Something wasn’t right with this scenario.

“Trist– an,” I said slowly, as if she had some type of hearing impairment.

“Who?”

I narrowed my eyes at her.

“What kind of music do you listen to?”

“Country,” she answered so quickly, she didn’t even blink an eye or stop for thought. On
top of that, she said it in such a way that showed she was thoroughly confused,
and almost disgusted with me, for even asking such a ridiculous question. She wrinkled
her nose.

“Look, I know the owner, and you shouldn’t be here.”

“I know the owner,” I repeated, “and you shouldn’t be here.”

“I’m not leaving,” she said, pulling at her own arm again and sticking out a hand to
press against my chest as leverage. I had tugged my shirt off at some point
while I was passed out, and her warm hand felt good on my air-conditioned cool
skin. Her hand was tiny, I noticed. All of her was thin.

“I’m supposed to be here. Alone,” I emphasized again.

She didn’t respond, so I added, “I think I’ll just call the owner myself, to see
where the mix up is.”

“No,” she blurted, stopping in her physical struggle against me. Her eyes opened even
wider, if that was possible, and her face was suddenly full of something I
couldn’t read. Her blue eyes brightened in a frightening sort of way. Was that
fear? Good, she should be afraid.

“Please.
I swear. I’m allowed to be here. You don’t need to call Isa.”

She had me. I didn’t really know who Isa was, and the girl sounded confident enough
that I let her call my bluff.

“If there is a mistake, and you were scheduled to stay as well, I won’t complain.
As a matter of fact, I won’t even be in your way. You won’t even know I’m here.
I plan to keep to myself.” Her eyes were
glassy, and again I worried she was about to cry.

I released her arm and she pulled it back quickly. She fisted the hand of that
arm, holding it against her chest. She began rubbing her upper arm with the
opposite hand. I noticed again that she was thin, as were her breasts. I didn’t
care for small chested girls. I didn’t care for her.

“Well, I’m Tristan, whom you claim to not know, and you are?”

“I’m…Ireland.”

“Ireland
what?”

“Just…Ireland.”

I shook my head.

“So this is how we’re going to play it? Fine, my Irish Isle. What are you doing in
the Caymans?”

She looked at me for a moment, then leaned toward me and sniffed. She held the
disgusted expression on her face and wrinkled her nose as she pulled back.

“Probably the same thing as you.”

“Drinking myself into oblivion?” I laughed, crossing my arms over my bare chest
defensively.

“Hiding,” she replied.

Author Bio

L.B. Dunbar loves to read to the point it might be classified as an addiction. The past few years especially she has relished the many fabulous YA authors, the new genre of New Adult, traditional romances, and historical romances. A romantic at heart, she’s been accused of having an overactive imagination, as if that was a bad thing. Author of the Sensations Collection, Sound Advice, Taste Test, Fragrance Free, Touch Screen, and Sight Words, she is also author of the Legendary Rock Star series, beginning with The Legend of Arturo King. She grew up in Michigan, but has lived in Chicago for longer, calling it home with her husband and four children.

I’d like to say I was always a writer. I’d also like to say that I wrote every day of my life since a child. That I took the teaching advice I give my former students because writing every day improves your writing. I’d like to say I have my ten-thousand hours that makes me a proficient writer. But I can’t say any of those things. I did dream of writing the “Great American Novel” until one day a friend said: Why does it have to be great? Why can’t it just be good and tell a story?

As a teenager, I wrote your typical love-angst poetry that did occasionally win me an award and honor me with addressing my senior high school class at our Baccalaureate Mass. I didn’t keep a journal because I was too afraid my mom would find it in the mattress where I kept my copy of Judy Blume’s Forever that I wasn’t allowed to read as a twelve year old.

I can say that books have been my life. I’m a reader. I loved to read the day I discovered “The Three Bears” as a first grader, and ever since then, the written word has been my friend. Books were an escape for me. An adventure to the unknown. A love affair I’d never know. I could be lost for hours in a book.

So why writing now? I had a story to tell. It haunted me from the moment I decided if I just wrote it down it would go away. But it didn’t. Three years after writing the first draft, a sign (yes, I believe in them) told me to fix up that draft and work the process to have it published. That’s what I did. But one story let to another, and another, and another. Then a new idea came into my head and a new storyline was created.

I was accused (that’s the correct word) of having an overactive imagination as a child, as if that was a bad thing. I’ve also been accused of having the personality of a Jack Russell terrier, full of energy, unable to relax, and always one step ahead. What can I say other than I have stories to tell and I think you’ll like them. If you don’t, that’s okay. We all have our book boyfriends. We all have our favorites. Whatever you do, though, take time for yourself and read a book.

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Review: Loving Dallas (Neon Dreams #2) by Caisey Quinn

Posted on June 16, 2015 by Amy-OUABB

In the second novel in bestselling author Caisey Quinn’s Neon Dreams series, a country rock band and its members embark on the rocky road to fame and find love along the way.

Dallas Lark is so close to achieving his dream of making it big in country music that he can taste it. Arriving in Nashville after signing with sexy, successful manager Mandy Lantram, his life goes from tragedy and turmoil to one lucky break after another—except it isn’t really luck because Dallas has sacrificed everything for his career, leaving behind his band, sister, best friend, and high school sweetheart, Robyn, in the pursuit of fame.

Robyn Breeland is a successful marketing coordinator and promotions specialist for a thriving liquor distributor out of Texas. She loves every aspect of her job: coming up with new ideas, traveling, hosting promotional parties and exclusive events—until it brings her face-to-face with the man who broke her heart, prompting her to erect a steel cage around it.

When their paths collide and they’re forced to work together, Dallas and Robyn realize that the old spark they thought they’d extinguished might still be a burning flame.

My Review

“More of my granddad’s wisdom comes to mind. A woman’s like a guitar, son. It’s all in how you hold her. After that he added, Get comfortable with her but never take her for granted, appreciate every single inch and curve. The imperfections are what make her unique, what make her yours.”

Loving Dallas is the second book in the Neon Dreams series and is the companion novel to Leaving Amarillo. I was a little surprised that Loving Dallas was the second book in this series, especially with the way things ended in Leaving Amarillo. I’m not gonna lie. I wanted more Dixie and Gavin. However, things happen for a reason and I’m glad that we got Dallas’ story first.

Loving Dallas follows the story of Dallas and Robyn. Dallas and Robyn were high-school sweethearts and had big dreams of their future. That is until one day, Robyn ends things. Never understanding the reasons behind their break up and not really giving Robyn the chance to explain things, Dallas moved on. Focusing on his career, sacrificing everything in the name of fame….

Robyn has always regretted the decision she made to end things with Dallas. She has a successful career and loves her job. But, not a day goes by that she doesn’t think about Dallas. Then one day, when she least expected it, fate decided to intervene and put Dallas back in her path. Now the two of them will be forced to work together and face feelings that they thought were in the past…..

Loving Dallas was such an enjoyable read for me. I’ve been hooked on these characters ever since I read Leaving Amarillo and couldn’t wait to spend more time with them. I wanted to know why Dallas was the way he was. What had happened between him and Robyn? Was there anything left to save? I am a sucker for a second chance romance and Loving Dallas does not disappoint. You can feel the spark, the connection between Dallas and Robyn almost immediately. Their chemistry is off the charts, unwilling to stay buried in the past. I found myself rooting for the two of them, wanting the truth to get out and for them to find a way to move past the hurt. They both made so many mistakes and I just hoped they wouldn’t make the same mistakes twice.

Loving Dallas was a fantastic addition to the Neon Dreams series. Caisey Quinn has once again given me an amazing story with intriguing characters that I can’t help get lost in. I loved the music, the angst and the romance. Fans of Dixie and Gavin, don’t worry, there are little breadcrumbs sprinkled within the story, that have me anxiously awaiting the next book!

*I was provided an ARC copy of this book via the publisher and Edelweiss, in exchange for an honest review*

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Cover Reveal: Be The One by Nina Levine

Posted on April 28, 2015 by Amy-OUABB

Title: Be the One

Series: Crave #2

Author: Nina Levine

Cover Design: RBA Designs – Romantic Book Affairs

Release Date: June 26, 2015

Synopsis

Jett Vaughn has one thing on his mind these days – Presley Hart. He will do anything it takes to make her his. At least, he thinks he will.

Presley Hart wants one thing in life – a man who will make her his number one. After being married to a man who never put her first, she swore she’d never settle for second best again. At least, she thought she wouldn’t.

When Jett’s life comes crashing down around him, his flaws are laid bare for all to see. Presley stands by her man but there’s only so much she can do to help him. She loves him and wants to be with him but she has her limits and Jett’s about to reach them.

In the midst of hurt, loss and destruction, can love win out? Can a man who is struggling to find his way, show the woman he loves just how much he wants her to be the one? Or is there only so much a heart can take before enough’s enough?

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Title: All Your Reasons

Series: Crave #1

Author: Nina Levine

Release Date: March 2, 2015

Synopsis

When heartbreaker meets ball breaker, sparks will fly.Rockstar, Jett Vaughn, isn’t against settling down, but no woman has ever held his attention long enough for a relationship to develop. That is until he meets Presley Hart. She’s confident, opinionated and headstrong. She drives him to the edge of crazy, but he can’t deny how she makes him feel.

He wants her heart, but she only wants his body.

Presley’s not against giving her heart to a man, but she has too many reasons why he’s not the one to give it to. Jett isn’t a man who will take no for an answer though. He’s about to declare war on her reasons and take what he wants.

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Author Bio

Dreamer.Coffee Lover.

Gypsy at heart.

Bad boy addict.

USA Today Bestselling author who writes about alpha men & the women they
love.

When I’m not creating with words
you will find me either creating with paper or curled up with a good book and
chocolate.

I love Keith Urban, Maroon 5, Pink, Florida Georgia Line, Bon Jovi, Matchbox
20, Lady Antebellum and pretty much any singer/band that is country or rock.

My favourite word. If this offends you, you won’t like my books…

I love to chat with the readers of my book so please visit me or contact me here:

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Cover Reveal: Loving Dallas by Caisey Quinn

Posted on April 9, 2015 by Amy-OUABB

LOVING DALLAS by Caisey Quinn
(William Morrow, on-sale June 16th, 2015)
——————————————————————————————————————–

Every dream comes with a price…

Dallas
********
Sacrifice.

I’m familiar with it.

I’ve had to leave behind everyone I cared about—my sister, my best friend, my band, and my high school sweetheart—in order to chase my dream of making it in Nashville.

But when Robyn Breeland walks back into my life, it’s as if the universe has decided to give me a second chance. I’m just not sure it’s one I’m willing to take.

—————————————————————-

Robyn
********
Heartbreak.

I practically majored in it.

Dallas Lark was the first boy I ever loved and the one who’d shattered my heart into pieces. But I’ve moved on. Working in promotions at Midnight Bay Bourbon, I’m too busy to sit around moping over my ex. But when my company decides to sponsor his tour, I’ll have to face him whether I’m ready to or not. Dallas is determined to drive me to distraction, and my body begs me to let him.

Trouble is, my heart can’t tell the difference between a second chance and making the same mistake twice.

Excerpt

“I’m still me,” he’d said before falling asleep.

I’d been about to snuggle down into that blissful murkiness of sleepy time when he’d said it.

No matter how much he’d changed, Dallas was still Dallas. And maybe I had a college degree and a big-girl job, but I was still the same girl he couldn’t forgive. I’d been an idiot, pushed him away so that he wouldn’t let my mom’s illness stop him from chasing his dreams. By the time I realized how unfair it was and how much I needed him, the damage was done and Dallas Lark had moved on.

I was the one who’d needed space, but Dallas ended up being the one to walk away for good.

Forget being on the same page; Dallas and I had been reading entirely different books when it came to our relationship. In mine, there was a happily ever after that involved making a life together. He wasn’t just in my story—he was my story. In his I was merely a chapter.

I’m still me.

I wanted to smack myself. Hard. Of course he was still him. And he’d still walk away, dragging my battered heart behind him while I watched him leave. I’d hurt him, deeply. And I’d live with that regret for the rest of my life. He’d still be the guy who chose music over me, over us. He had even more reason to now that he was on this tour.

I waited there in his arms, forcing my steel walls back up between us while he drifted into unconsciousness. Once his breathing was deep and the light rumble of a snore settled into a steady rhythm, I slipped out of his bed and gathered my things as quietly as I could. Dressing quickly, I watched him, memorizing that peaceful look on his handsome face and promising myself this was a one-time thing. I wasn’t going to obsess over it. It was a life experience, one I didn’t regret but knew I’d be crazy to repeat.

I chanced one last look as I left, before I shut the door completely. The light from the hotel hallway sliced across him and he looked so . . . alone.

I closed the door and told myself this was for the best. What would having breakfast together or sharing a cab to the airport change? Nothing, that’s what.

This time, I’d been the one to leave. For the sake of my sanity and my heart, I could never fall into bed with Dallas Lark again.

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Loving-Dallas-Neon-Dreams-Novel/dp/0062366831/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1428444331&sr=1-1&keywords=LOVING+DALLAS

B&N: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/loving-dallas-caisey-quinn/1120380073?ean=9780062366832

HarperCollins Publishers: http://www.harpercollins.com/9780062366832/loving-dallas

Writing Loving Dallas

One of the absolute craziest things about writing Loving Dallas was the fact that it was like having two male leads. Dallas himself says it best in the chapter where he explains to Robyn about “Person Dallas” and “Performer Dallas.” The recording label he is hired onto quickly turns charming Dallas Lark from Amarillo (think: country cutie Easton Corbin) into the sexy, sharp-tongued Dallas Walker, a drifter with a shady past (think: country music outlaw Eric Church). I thought it might be fun to compare the two sides of my guy side by side!

STYLE

First up, even though he’s really just one man, Dallas has a completely different style when he’s on stage. If you were to see the laid back crooner around town, he’d be clad in a well worn-in flannel button down and his favorite pair of jeans and cowboy boots. There will likely be trucker hat providing some shade over his baby blues. However, stop in to see a show and you might not recognize him! On stage Dallas Walker rocks an edgier look including Aviators, leather jackets, and biker boots. Vintage rock band tees are a staple in the wardrobe of this version of Dallas!

SWAGGER

Dallas Lark is a caring and somewhat overprotective big brother to his little sister, Dixie. He believes women should be treated like the ladies that they are with the respect they deserve. He says Grace and he says ma’am, y’all!

Dallas Walker on the other hand is a little rougher around the edge and if you get too close you might enter a danger zone where you end up in scandalous tabloid photos alongside country music’s newest bad boy!

SWEETHEARTS

Dallas Lark will forever carry a torch for his high school sweetheart, Robyn Breeland. She is and will always be his muse.

Dallas Walker can’t be tamed or tied down and women traipse in and out of his life quicker than Billboard chart toppers change places! He does certainly pay a lot of attention to one special lady that has yet to be identified by media sources. Rumor has it she’s the one that got away!