✯Release Review✯Player by Staci Hart

I should have known it was only a game.

I should have known he was too good to be true.

He’s nothing but a player...

Player, an all-new sexy, standalone romantic comedy from Staci Hart, is available NOW!

He’s a player.

He plays the bass with expert fingers. He plays women with intoxicating charm. And he’ll play me with the ease of a virtuoso.

Who better to teach me to play than the master himself?

I’m his model student, front row, pencil sharp. Pick up lines? I’ve got them. Free drinks? By the dozen. Kissing? Let me grab my chapstick.

But the most valuable lesson I’ve learned is that there’s so much I don’t know. Like why his touch sets off a chain reaction straight to my nethers. Or how I’m certain each kiss is the best I’ll ever have, until the moment his lips take mine again.

There’s so much I don’t know.

Like the fact that I’m only a bet.

But we are what we are. He’s a player, through and through.

And I’m the fool who fell in love with him.

 

✯✯5 Player Filled Stars!!!✯✯

Staci Hart is one of my favorite go to authors! I don’t have to read the blurb to her new books before I automatically add to my TBR list. 

Piece of Work was the fist book for her next set of friends to get their stories told. These ladies are all naturally beautiful, quiet, low key, don’t dress fancy or have much or any past relationship/interactions with men. But, a waitress friend of them told them they must buy a red lipstick. It’ll change things. They did and started RLC which equals out to the red lipstick coalition. It totally worked wonders with Rin. Now, it’s Val’s turn. 

Val hasn’t had many boyfriends. First off all her siblings are brothers. And, yes they’re all VERY protective of their sister. Second, she’s not model size and she developed breasts earlier then most her classmates and they were cruel to her. Bc of that she’s had few boyfriends. 

Val’s a very talented trumpet player. She’s got an amazing job working for an orchestra on a broadway play. There’s a bass player, Sam that Val has a seriously huge crush on. Whenever he’s near her Val’s lucky if she makes 2-4 words out that make any sense or she’s knocking something over or tripping and falling. 

When Val accidentally empties her trumpet spit all over him she’s embarrassed. They start talking and he invites her and her friends to a swing club he plays at with his band. Her friends talk her into getting dressed up, putting on her red lipstick that’s doing nothing and collecting dust and going. Val has the best time watching Sam and his band rock out and dancing. 

When her and Sam get to talking she explains why she’s single and lack of picking up guys. Sam offers to tutor Val in getting more comfortable with herself and men and getting her out there to start dating. Val wishes Sam wanted her but she’ll take him anyway she can get him. 

Sam was attracted to Val the instant he saw her. She’s not his typical go-to girl but the total opposite. He can tell Val’s special. Sam doesn’t have a problem getting women into his bed. He lets them know he doesn’t date and won’t spend more then one night with them. But, Sam does have one rule. Sam won’t sleep with a women if he works with them. He won’t crap where he eat. It’s why he’s stayed away from Val. 

Sam’s pretty much a player and he’s OK with that. His best friend Ian is no better. They’ve always gotten in trouble together. They’re in the orchestra and band together. When Ian starts making comments about Val wanting Sam, he starts dismissing Ian. Ian figures if Sam won’t go after Val then he will. That instantly makes Sam’s blood boil. 

Sam won’t let Val be Ian’s next victim. He tries to put a claim on her but Ian don’t believe it. They make a bet. Sam feels instantly bad about it but’ll do anything to protect Val from Ian. 

But, the more and more time Sam spends with Val the more and harder he is falling for her. Sam’s never felt like this before for a women. His hearts telling him he’s in love but his brain is telling him he’s no good for her. 

Sam knows he must admit 2 things to Val. His true feelings for her and everything that happened with Ian that resulted in a bet. But, Sam can’t admit the second part bc he doesn’t want to hurt her or loose her. 

Even though he told her he wants to stop being friends and be her boyfriend he knows the truth needs to come out. But, Ian’s changed ever since Sam has been around Val. He’s always overlooked Ian’s dark side. This time he can’t and won’t. ESP when this time Ian’s crossed a line to hurt Val and Sam won’t let that go. 

Sam just needs to get Val to listen to him, forgive him and hopefully not give up on them. 

Once I started this I couldn’t put it down. I loved this so much more then Piece of Work!! I might not of liked what Sam did but I understood it. I hated he put himself into same category as Ian bc he’s soooooooo not!!!! He’d just never found his one before Val. My heart broke for everything Val went thru with being body shamed. I’m glad she didn’t let it ruin her. 

Sam and Val are great together!!! I’m super excited for the rest of the RLC ladies to put their lipsticks on and have that superpower to take over and then get their HEA. I’m also really hoping, praying and keeping my fingers crossed that Val’s brothers get their stories written bc OMG they had me laughing and wanting more from them. 

Download your copy today or read FREE in Kindle Unlimited!

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Excerpt:

The night flew by, time speeding up and sliding past with nothing to mark the hours but his laughter and my smiles and our bodies bouncing around the parquet like we had nothing in the world to do but dance. I had no idea how late it was until “New York, New York” came on with the house lights. Sam hooked me under his arm and guided me out into the chilly fall evening. Like an idiot, I’d come without a jacket, and I tried to play it off like I wasn’t cold. A shiver wracked down my spine, betraying me. He shrugged off his leather jacket. “Here, wear this.” “B-but then y-you’ll be cold,” I said, shifting away from him in an effort to stop him. “Look, it’s n-not even cold. It’s f-fake cold. It’s only what—like, sixty out? M-my body is j-just being drunk and d-dumb.” “Val.” The word was a gentle warning. He held out his jacket like a matador. “Put it on.” “N-no,” I said with a laugh. He shook it once like he was taunting me. “Toro.” I giggled, stumbling a little as I brought my hands to the top of my head, pointer fingers to the stars. “Olé!” I cheered as I charged. But instead of running through his jacket, I found myself in his arms. I didn’t know how it happened. The jacket was there, and then it was gone. But instead of being laid out on the sidewalk like I should have been, Sam’s arms were hooked around my waist, our bodies winding together and twisting from the force of his catch. And then I looked up, and time stretched out in a long, still moment. His eyes on my mouth. Mine on his. His nose millimeters from mine and his mouth so close, if I turned my head just right, our lips would brush. The warmth of him was everywhere. I wasn’t cold anymore. I was on fire. So I said the first thing that entered my empty mind. “Are you going to kiss me, or am I gonna have to lie to my diary?” The moment broke with our laughter, filled the air around us, stopped my chugging heart. He pressed his lips to my forehead. I sighed. “I guess that’ll do.” He hooked his jacket over my shoulders, taking a moment to look over my face, watching his fingers as he tucked a loose curl behind my ear. “Come on. Let’s get you home. You did good tonight, Val.” “Thanks to your expert advice.” But he smiled. “Pretty soon, you’ll figure out you didn’t need me at all.” And I smiled back and pretended like it was possible that statement held an iota of truth.

About the Author

Staci has been a lot of things up to this point in her life -- a graphic designer, an entrepreneur, a seamstress, a clothing and handbag designer, a waitress. Can't forget that. She's also been a mom, with three little girls who are sure to grow up to break a number of hearts. She's been a wife, though she's certainly not the cleanest, or the best cook. She's also super, duper fun at a party, especially if she's been drinking whiskey. From roots in Houston to a seven year stint in Southern California, Staci and her family ended up settling somewhere in between and equally north, in Denver. They are new enough that snow is still magical. When she's not writing, she's reading, sleeping, gaming, or designing graphics.

Connect with Staci

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✯Blog Tour Review✯Piece of Work by Staci Hart

Piece of Work, an all-new sexy and hilarious romance from Staci Hart, is available NOW!

Marble isn’t the only thing that’s hard at this museum.

His body is as chiseled as Adonis. His lips are as sculpted as David. And his ego is the size of the Guggenheim.

You know the type—wolfish smile and the gravity of a black hole. The kind of man who sucks all the air from the room the second he enters it. My cocky boss thinks this internship was wasted on me, and he doesn’t hesitate to let me know.

But he’s wrong, and I’m going to prove it to him. If I can stay away from his devil lips, that is. Lips that cut me down and kiss me in the same breath, leaving me certain he’s on a mission to ruin my life.

And maybe my heart.

✯✯4 Full Pieced Stars!!!✯✯

Staci Hart is magic!! Her writing sucks me in with every book she writes. Piece of Work was no different. And, like her previous books Staci does her homework to get her facts straight. 

Rin has gotten an internship at the Met. She’s worked hard to get it and she’s gotten the references from some important people. Rin hopes she can go and make everyone proud. 

Rin is of mixed heritage and being half Korean she’s extremely tall. But, she’s use to being invisible to those around her and Rin’s perfectly OK with that. Until she walks into the Met and both the curator Court and his evil assistant Bianca throw her a look of disgust ESP Bianca. 

Rin tries to not let the looks bother her. But, when a misunderstanding with Bianca happens, Rin’s not sure she can do this. Luckily for her she’s got the best friends/roommates in the world. They take her clothes shopping at a place that specializes for tall women with her body type. Rin puts on her new clothes and the bright bold red  lipstick on that their weekly waitress insists every woman should have and heads to work. Rin was totally unprepared for what happened next. But, she did know she was tired of being invisible and was ready to be seen and heard. 

Court is the curator of the Met and he takes his job seriously. He’s been working on the upcoming exhibit for months now. The only thing that’s missing is Michelangelo’s David. The curator at the museum he’s at in Italy is making it difficult for him to get him for the duration of the exhibit. 

When Bianca didn’t give the intern proper, clear instructions he was mad at first. Then, he looked it over and he was impressed at what she looked up and gave him ideas he didn’t think of before. 

Court plans of sitting down with the intern (who he cant remember her name) when she comes in. But, when she came in he was shocked. She was dressed differently and her red lips. As drawn to her as he was Court had one rule in his life. No coworkers! He’d been burned bad before and he’ll never do that again.

Court plans of having Rin do certain research and they discuss it before days end. Court tells himself it’s just business but deep down he knows Rin is different. But, when he accuses her of using him for her gain, she flips. Proving his first instinct right. Then, he kisses her and regrets it and runs away. 

The more time Court and Rin spend together the harder it is for them both to keep their feelings straight and minds on track. Court’s back and forth thinking/acting is messing them both up. When they both have to go to Italy things definitely change.  But, when they comeback that’s when things can get complicated. ESP when Court’s boss, his father is always out to ruin him by trying to prove crazy things.

I couldn’t put this down! One minute I wanted to smack Court and then the next wanted to strip him down and let him take me anyway he wanted. And, Rin I adored! I loved watching her go from a shy, timid girl who was afraid to speak and only spoke when spoken too and then who she became. She turned into this fierce woman, somebody who stopped letting people walk all over her. She was fantastic!

I’m hoping and praying Staci gives Rin’s friends their own stories. Because, these girls deserve their own HEA like they helped Rin get.

Download your copy today or read FREE in Kindle Unlimited!

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Excerpt:

He smirked and flipped up his sunglasses. Bastard. “You’re early,” I clipped. “I would have had my assistant text you, but she’s currently bedridden.” “You could have texted me.” “I didn’t have your number,” he said simply. “Oh.” His eyes shifted to look behind me, and I turned to find my friends standing me in a row with my suitcase in front of them, my messenger bag on top, and fake smiles on all their faces, lips together, their judgment about as quiet as a foghorn. “These your roommates?” “Yup,” was all I said as I turned and took my suitcase, hugging each of them down the line with promises to text when we landed. And then I turned to Court, rolling my suitcase in front of me like like a riot shield. I tried to pick it up to carry it over the threshold, but it was heavy, and before I could get far, he’d swept it out of my hands like it was a loaf of bread and not fifty pounds of mascara and shoes. I waved at my friends, who offered encouraging smiles and hand gestures, and I closed that door, immediately regretting every decision I’d made to bring me to the moment I turned around. He stood at the door to the backseat, holding it open for me like a gentleman, which I knew he was not. But the look on his face of regret and deference, under the hard shell of his brooding, was almost too much to bear. So I did the only thing I could. I ignored him. I ignored his gorgeous lips as they tilted and the sleek cut of his jaw as I walked past him. I ignored the sight of his long legs as he climbed in next to me and the smell of him that made me want to grab him by the lapels of his jacket and bury my nose in his chest. The driver took off, and I busied myself in my bag, looking for my headphones and book. His eyes were on me. I pretended like I didn’t notice. “You’re not wearing lipstick,” he stated. Headphones, headphones, headphones. “It’s an international flight, Court. Of course I’m not wearing red lipstick for a ten hour flight.” A pause. “Rin, I—” Aha! I popped in my earbuds the second they were in hand. His lips flattened, his face unamused. Rin, his lips said, but I smiled and shrugged, pointing to my ears. “Noise canceling,” I said way too loud. His chest rose and fell with a sigh I couldn’t hear—I’d already turned on music, a playlist we’d built the night before geared toward resisting douchery and unwanted-slash-totally-wanted advances—and he reached into his own bag, a leather affair at his feet, his hand disappearing into the bag and reappearing with a book, which he handed to me. He watched me with his expression shrouded as I paused, my eyes on the offered book. An image of Penitent Magdalene by Tintoretto filled the cover, and I met his eyes, pulling my earbuds out by the cord. “I thought you could use this. For your proposal,” he said, giving nothing away. “I…A colleague of mine wrote it, so if you have any questions, I can connect you. If you want.” I took it from his hand, surprised and disarmed. “Thank you,” was all I said. He opened his mouth as if to speak again, but closed it, and with a nod, he reached back into his bag for his own book. Margaret Atwood’s Oryx and Crake. I put my earbuds back in place, trying not to bite my lip, but it found its way between my teeth despite the effort at the sight of him sitting there, dressed like that, reading Margaret Atwood. After giving me a thoughtful gift, a book he knew I would want, one I would need for my dissertation. Court Lyons made about as much sense to me as a scrambled up Rubik’s Cube.   I leaned against the door as I flipped through his gift, doing my best to sort through the rush of questions and confusion as Karen O of the Yeah Yeah Yeah’s sang about being cheated by the opposite of love. And I found I knew exactly the feeling.

About the Author

Staci has been a lot of things up to this point in her life -- a graphic designer, an entrepreneur, a seamstress, a clothing and handbag designer, a waitress. Can't forget that. She's also been a mom, with three little girls who are sure to grow up to break a number of hearts. She's been a wife, though she's certainly not the cleanest, or the best cook. She's also super, duper fun at a party, especially if she's been drinking whiskey.   From roots in Houston to a seven year stint in Southern California, Staci and her family ended up settling somewhere in between and equally north, in Denver. They are new enough that snow is still magical. When she's not writing, she's reading, sleeping, gaming, or designing graphics.

Connect with Staci:

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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stacihartnovels

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Website: http://stacihartnovels.com

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✯Release Day Review w/Giveaway✯When We Met by A.L. Jackson, Molly McAdams, Tiffany King and Christina Lee

Today’s premiere New Adult authors combine their talents to tell four original stories from inside one house.

When four girls decide to live off campus together as juniors at a college in Michigan, they expect it to be their best year yet. Little do they know, it’s a year that will change the rest of their lives.

BEHIND HER EYES by A.L. Jackson 
Unable to live down her ex-boyfriend’s deception, Misha is determined to avoid betrayal. When, the new guy next door, Darryn starts to get under her skin, her defenses start to crumble. But trusting Darryn seems impossible, especially if he’s not sure he can trust himself.

SAVING ME by Molly McAdams 
On the outside, Indy is always ready for a party—but inside she’s breaking. Kier makes a weekly routine of saving the girl next door from herself on Saturday nights… but when will she be ready to remember him on Sunday morning?

FOULING OUT by Tiffany King 
Working at a sports bar, Courtney has become a pro at sidestepping propositions from arrogant jocks—which makes her a more elusive catch for campus basketball star Dalton than he expected. But when he falls for the saucy waitress, Dalton will have to rethink his game plan to prove he’s not the jerk Courtney expects.

BENEATH YOUR LAYERS by Christina Lee 
In order to ace her fashion internship, Chloe must team up with local college dropout and set builder, Blake—much to her chagrin. But after some "hands-on" experience, Chloe will have to ask herself if Blake factors into her carefully laid plans…

 ✯✯4 Bright Shiny Stars!!✯✯

This book is 4 different stories about 4 different girls. They're roommates and trying to deal with life, college, family and guys. All while trying to fix what was done to them in the past that has made them well them. The 4 guys are all just like the girls. They all have their own issues with their lives that they are dealing with. Every couple fit together perfectly!!

Behind Her Eyes by A.L Jackson 

Misha is back at the place she never wanted to go back too. After Hunter hurt her so bad she never wanted to step foot back at college or at her house she shared with her roommates. Esp since Hunter lived next door. Misha came back for 2 reasons. The 1st being Indy her 1 roommate begged her to come back. And, for her kids. The ones she helps. Luckily for her he was kicked out after his roommates found out what he did to her. Darryn now took Hunter's room. Misha nicknamed him her "man-boy-god". 

Misha just wants to go to school and not be noticed. But, after last semester she doubts that'll happen. Darryn not only knows what happened with Misha but saw the video. But, when he had his 1st run in with Misha it was not what her was expecting. He thought she was going to be feisty and all that good stuff. Instead, she's shy. Turns red easily. She has an adorable stutter.

Darryn does everything he can to help  Misha without her knowing. Because, he knows she's not ready. Misha wants to move past the whole incident. Misha finds out that Darryn knows everything.

But, these 2 are good for each other very well. My main complaint about this story was Darryn. I knew nothing about him! We knew he knew everything about what happened with Misha. But, everything else was a mystery. That was disappointing. But, other then that it was a great story.

Saving Me by Molly McAdams

This is the 1st I've read anything from Molly McAdams and it won't be my last. Out of all 4 stories. This one Indy & Kier had me the most emotional. I had felt for both of them. Both of them were fighting their own demons. And, they handled them both very differently.

Indy loosing the closest person to her. Then, her parents kicking her to the curb she comes back to college 2 weeks early. Indy runs to her boyfriend of 2yrs to find him with another girl. Indy is beside herself. The only person she has to rely on and now he's gone.

Indy is completely broken inside. So, every weekend she goes partying next door and getting completely drunk and sleeps with random dudes that she does not remember the next morning. She wakes up in her room and her bedroom door closed.

Kier hasn't had it easy. He's extremely quiet. He has always noticed Indy. Kier hates what her ex did to her. He can also see that something else deeper is going on with her. But, he will continue to stay on the sidelines and keep her safe. One day she will remember him.

One Saturday night a drunk Indy ends up falling into Kier's room. She instantly has deja vu but can't figure out why. Kier brings Indy home and she knows he is safe.

Indie is sober and she spends  more time together with Kier. Indy knows Kier is safe. But, can't put all the pieces together. Kier keeps telling her when that when she's ready he will tell her everything.

Molly McAdams kept me on the verge of my seat the whole time. When Kier told his story I cried. When Indy told hers I cried. This is a must read!!

Fouling Out by Tiffany King

Fouling Out honestly my favorite story out of the 4!! I love Courtney. She reminded me of me. Courtney hates jocks, works hard and doesn't put up with crap with anybody. So, when Dalton walks into Grubys, the sports bar she works at she wants to instantly beat his ass.

Dalton & Courtney grew up together and were best friends. Until Dalton got so caught up in basketball and forgot about Courtney. And, Courtney has never forgotten or forgiven him!

The minute Dalton saw Courtney again he'd give anything to talk to her again. But, he wasn't expecting Courtney to give him the cold silent shoulder. He finally gets her to spill what is going on. Dalton felt terrible for hurting Courtney.

Dalton did his hardest to win Courtney's friendship back 1st and go from there. Courtney missed Dalton and realizes maybe she was a little hard on him. I really liked watching these 2 go back & forth.

Beneath Your Layers by Christina Lee

I hate to say that I'm not really sure how much I liked Chloe. She is all about fashion and wants that as her career. She has post-its for everything. Chloe picks out her clothes, shoes everything the night before. To me she's kind of stuck up.

Chloe works at a cute little boutique and her boss has an idea for her project for end of the semester. Chloe's boss plan has her working with her boss's nephew Blake. And, neither of them are happy about it. They had a misunderstanding that caused them to not want to be near each other.

Blake and Chloe soon realize that they were wrong about the other one. They decide to be "friends" and work together to get the job done. They play my favorite "truth or dare" game. Let me tell you every time one picked dare it got hot! Their chemistry was off the chain.

Both have family issues. Chloe's mom is so far up her butt she can't breathe. Blake mom has issues as well that caused him to drop out of college and work in construction. Blake's story broke my heart as well.

These 2 had a lot to deal with. They had decisions to  make. I really liked these 2. Blake brought out the Chloe that I ended up really liking.

I really did like this book. I wish it was longer. Like 4 full length books instead of short stories. Some parts felt rushed. Some characters I felt like I knew nothing about. But, I definitely would tell my friends to read it!!

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A.L. Jackson is the New York Times bestselling author of Take This Regret and Lost to You, as well as other contemporary romance titles, including Come to Me Quietly, Come to Me Softly, Pulled, When We Collide, and If Forever Comes.

She first found a love for writing during her days as a young mother and college student.  She filled the journals she carried with short stories and poems used as an emotional outlet for the difficulties and joys she found in day-to-day life.

Years later, she shared a short story she’d been working on with her two closest friends and, with their encouragement, this story became her first full length novel. A.L. now spends her days writing in Southern Arizona where she lives with her husband and three children. Her favorite pastime is spending time with the ones she loves.

To stay up to date with important news on A.L. Jackson, including new releases, sales, and exclusive specials and excerpts, text “jackson” to 96000 to subscribe!

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USA Today Bestselling author Tiffany King is a lifelong reading fanatic who is now living her dream as a writer, weaving Young Adult and New Adult romance tales for others to enjoy. She has a loving husband and two wonderful kids. (Five, if you count her three spoiled cats). Her addictions include: Her iPhone and iPad, chocolate, Diet Coke, chocolate, Harry Potter, chocolate, zombies and her favorite TV shows. Want to know what they are? Just ask.

For information on any of Author Tiffany's titles, visit her blog at www.authortiffanyjking.blogspot.com

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Molly grew up in California but now lives in the oh-so-amazing state of Texas with her husband and furry four-legged daughters. When she's not diving into the world of her characters, some of her hobbies include hiking, snowboarding, traveling, and long walks on the beach … which roughly translates to being a homebody with her hubby and dishing out movie quotes. She has a weakness for crude-humored movies and fried pickles, and loves curling up in a fluffy comforter during a thunderstorm ... or under one in a bathtub if there are tornados. That way she can pretend they aren't really happening.

Come be my friend!

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Mother, wife, reader, dreamer. Christina lives in the Midwest with her husband and son--her two favorite guys. 

She's addicted to lip gloss and salted caramel everything. She believes in true love and kissing, so writing romance novels has become a dream job. 

Author of the Between Breaths series from Penguin. ALL OF YOU, BEFORE YOU BREAK and WHISPER TO ME available now, PROMISE ME THIS on October 7th, 2014. 

Also Adult contemporary romance TWO OF HEARTS coming from Peguin/NAL on May 5th 2015.

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✯Review Blitz w/Giveaway✯Among The Echoes by Aly Martinez

Title: Among the Echoes

Author: Aly Martinez

Publication Date: July 31, 2014

Genre: Erotic Suspense

 

Synopsis:

My name was Dr. Erica Hill. I was a victim, then a witness, and then I ceased to exist altogether.

I may still be breathing, but stripped of my identity, I have long since stopped living. I am invisible, and my life depends on my ability to stay in the shadows. But he sees me. Slate Andrews is the embodiment of everything I have been taught to avoid. He’s rich and famous, and one image of him with a woman would earn millions for any paparazzi lucky enough to snap it. He has vowed to protect me with his life, yet he exposes me with his every breath. I should be stronger and walk away. I should disappear. But I’m terrified he would come after me. I’m on the run, determined not to take him down with me but absolutely unable to let him go. My name is Riley Peterson…at least for today.
*Among The Echoes is a stand alone novel which contains material that may be offensive to some readers. Including sexual abuse, graphic language, and adult situations. Intended for readers 18+.*    

                   ✯✯5 Heart Wrenching Stars!!✯✯


"My name is Erica Hill. I used to be an emergency room physician-"

One day she was Erica, the next she was Riley. Forced to hide. To pretend. Constantly afraid. Always wondering if she'll be found. Never opening herself up to anyone. Protecting herself and everyone else. 

Wow!! Aly Martinez has done it to me again!! I have loved every book she has written. Every book is better then the last. Among The Echoes was insanely awesome. It is emotional like her Wrecked and Ruined series. Except on a completely different level and for a completely different reason. There are a few authors who can write a book and I don't have to read the synopsis, because it doesn't matter to me. I say this because I know that because their name is on the cover it won't matter what the book is about,  I'll love it regardless. Aly Martinez is one of those authors for me!!

Erica Hill is in  a situation that NOBODY wants to be in. And, I mean NOBODY!! Just when she thinks she is going to die. Leo saves her life.

"I won't hurt you. Ever. You're safe with me." -Slate

3 years later there is no more Erica Hill. Today it's Riley Peterson and her cousin Dave. Riley is a shell of who she used to be. Riley is afraid of every sudden noise, unexpected knocks on a door. Don't touch her. She doesn't sleep. The ONLY person she trusts is Dave.

Dave has it made it his life mission to protect & save Riley. Dave can not get over what happened to Riley. Deep down he wishes he could get her to smile. To get her to become the person she was before that horrible experience she went through. The experience he had to witness.  He never thinks he'll be able to help her. That is until they got a new neighbor.

"Don't give me that crap. That is not true at all and you fucking know it. I don't try to keep you away from anyone. You're the one who is  scared of letting anyone get close. You can have friends, Riley. Jesus, you need someone besides me." -Dave

Slate Adam Andrews is the World Heavyweight Champion of the world. Slate loves fighting in the ring. But, he HATES everything that comes with it. He doesn't like the cameras, the paparazzi, the fans touching him. He stays secluded. When he finishes a fight he goes home to the only place he can be alone.  The place that he can escape. Ohio.

Slate runs into Riley. I mean literally runs into Riley. They both freak. Slate thinks she will recognize him. Riley thinks that since Dave is out of town for a few days that Slate is there to kill her. Slate can tell right of the bat Riley doesn't know who he is. But still introduces himself as Adam. He can tell she's broken. Slate (Now Adam) instantly wants to protect Riley.

"I won't push you, beautiful. Anything that happens from here on out is completely up to you." -Slate

Adam is the first guy Riley has noticed in 3yrs. That night Riley gets scared and runs right to Adam for help. Dave comes home to find Riley & Adam sleeping oh the couch. it doesn't end too pretty. Dave knows instantly who Adam really is. Agrees to keep it a secret. Adam doesn't believe Riley & Dave's story. But, agrees to let them keep it.

"I always thought I would freak out when I was with a man again" -Riley 
Over the next few weeks Riley & Slate get closer and closer. Slate knows that Riley isn't telling him the truth. He begs her to tell him. But, he never pushes her. Which is seriously so damn sexy!! Riley has felt alive for the first time in a long time. She has always felt safe with Dave and nobody else. Now, she has Adam and feels safe. But, she is even more scared then before. She knows if they find her and Dave then Adam's life is in danger as well.

"Look, your right. This is all new. We are just getting to know each other, and who the hell knows if it will work out. But I will swear on my life that I will make you safe. Whether this works out or not, I will never let anyone hurt you again."  -Slate

Dave keeps insisting that it'll workout. Dave desperately  wants Riley to start living. Seeing her smile and laugh means the world to him. I loved their relationship. They understand exactly what the other one is fighting in themselves. They're each others only family. One minute they are going back & forth like brother and sister. The next Dave is putting away his "Man Card" to be Riley's girlfriend. Which is hysterical btw. No matter how often they fight. They would die for the other one.

One night Riley & Adam are talking. He decides it's time to tell her the truth. Well, he knew Riley was going to be mad. But, he wasn't expecting what he got. Riley realizes if she gets found Slate will die. She won't do it. Riley breaks up with him.

"I have watched you smile more over the last week than I have seen in the three years we have been forced together. You acted like  a normal person for seven full days, and it was the best moments of my entire fucking life to watch you do it." -Dave

Slate knows it's time for a lifestyle change. After spending time in LA to change what he knows deep down he should of done awhile ago.

Slate comes back to Ohio. Back to Riley. He tells her he needs to know the truth about her and Dave. Dave talks Riley into telling Slate EVERYTHING!!!

"F**k your fairytale. I just want you. I'll make you my own God damn happily ever after. But you're the one who is mistaken. You'll be at the end of that story, beautiful. You either come willingly or you force me into the dark after you. It doesn't matter to me because either way, I'll find you." -Slate

Slate makes a point to letting Riley know he's not leaving. Dave and Slate make it their live to protect Riley.How?? Riley and Dave back their lives. Erica, Leo & Slate start new. Together!! Or is it??

There was so many times I couldn't believe what I was reading. Slate/Adam & Dave/Leo are the hottest, sexiest guys. Who love Riley and would do anything to protect her. To see her smile. It was really nice to see. Dave & Riley are so broken. They never recovered. I didn't think they ever would. Until Slate entered!!

"I think I know you, but I always feel like I'm missing something. It's like you are some seven-billion-piece puzzle, and every time I find a corner tile, you change the entire picture." -Slate

There was times I'd be reading and find myself cheesing. Other times I'd find myself jumping if there was a sudden noise around me. Other times I was laughing so hard. Aly upped her game in this book. I loved everything about this book.

"When I walked in that first night, you were sound asleep but gripping his arm as if your life depended on it. Then when he first got back you ran right past me and into his arms. God it was liberating watching you come alive again." -Dave 

The ending definitely was one big SHOCKER to me!! I am honestly counting down to Aly's next book. I can't give anything away. Except there's a few people who need to be fixed. They must be healed from the inside.  

"I can see you, but I can’t hear you. There are too many lies and secrets echoing around us, distorting the real woman. I don’t know who you truly are, Riley, but tiny flashes of that woman whisper around the room between us. I will find the real you among the echoes—and I will make her mine." -Slate

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About Aly-

Born and raised in Savannah, Georgia, Aly Martinez is a stay-at-home mom to four crazy kids under the age of five, including a set of twins. Currently living in Chicago, she passes what little free time she has reading anything and everything she can get her hands on, preferably with a glass of wine at her side. After some encouragement from her friends, Aly decided to add “Author” to her ever-growing list of job titles. So grab a glass of Chardonnay, or a bottle if you’re hanging out with Aly, and join her aboard the crazy train she calls life.

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Don’t forget to check out Aly’s Wrecked and Ruined series

   

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✯Review for 'This Could Have Been Our Song! A Coulda Woulda Shoulda Ballad (Coulda Woulda Shoulda Song #1)by Danielle-Claude Ngontang Mba✯

Synopsis~
Love can be such a “coulda, woulda, shoulda” song sometimes… 

Lucia Mpobo-Riddell could have been a dancer like the rest of women of her family but instead she chose music. Marcus Grant could have been a doctor like the rest of his family but instead he chose music. She also could have not fallen for Marcus on her birthday but she did. And Marcus, he could have told Lucia the truth about his real reason for being in Toronto that night, but he didn’t. Now they have to deal with big reveals and consequences: Marcus almost stealing her job and being force to work on an album together. Marcus, because he couldn’t swallow his pride, leave Toronto and go home to London. Lucia, because she just couldn’t give up on her first amazing opportunity to produce a whole album. And to complicate the situation further, the band they’re working for is not the easiest one. Mary Gillis, Marcus’ on and off flame, still has a hold on him. Greg McMullen, Lucia’s close friend and former dance partner is back in town and has been in love with her for years. Then there’s Marcus and Lucia, in the middle of their own a professional and personal tug-of- war with each over and the rest of the world. But maybe things could still work out… All things considered, this could have been one heck of a love song!

✯✯4-5 Singing, Rocking, Dancing Stars✯✯

"I am forever yours, Luce. No men or new best friends will ever change that" ~Noor
Where do I even start?! This isn't my 1st book by Danielle. And, it's so NOT going be to my last!! This is the 1st book in the  'Coulda Woulda Shoulda' series. It did not disappoint. This book literally has a bit of EVERYTHING  in it. Everyone has such strong family values. Family comes first. The characters have all been hurt in the past. Most of them have abandonment issues.  A lot of them have trouble trusting outsiders & putting themselves out there. It really was a good story. 


The story revolves around  Lucia Mpobo-Riddell & her 2 crazy but loving older sisters. Their dad died when they were young & their mother abandoned them. Lucia also called Luce was raised by her sisters. They are both dancers and Luce can also dance her butt off. But, she chose a different career path. She is a top singer, song writer, producer.And, man can she cook!!! Everyone loves her cooking. I was getting hungry reading what she was cooking. LOL. She's a jack of all trades!! Luce is also absolutely stunningly  beautiful. This woman has men falling all over her. She is not afraid to speak her mind. After everything she has been through in her life, she's extremely strong. And, she doesn't let anyone push her around.

Luce and her sister go out for her birthday where she locks eyes with Marcus Grant. Sparks fly instantly between the 2 of them. Marcus has an ulterior motives for being there. He wasn't expecting Luce to be as beautiful as she is. He introduces himself as 'Just Marcus'. After a night of drinking, dancing & straight parting it up. Luce asks 'Just Marcus'  back to her place. After a night of mind blowing sex. Marcus gives her a beautiful charm bracelet for her birthday & she gives him her card. For 3 days she hears nothing from him.

"Really? Mary, you broke him and I was healing him. His words not mine. So, good luck, Mary. You're going to need it if you really want him back." 

Luce walks into work getting ready to start her next project. She's the head songwriter, producer for Beesly & Matt for their next album "Second Coming". Luce walks into the meeting to see Marcus sitting there talking to everybody. Then, she realizes just exactly who he is. She is informed that he's very, very good friends with Matt  and that they will be working together on this album. Livid is not even close to how mad Luce is!! 

Luce takes the high road. After an argument Luce keeps it as professional as she can. Even though more then 1/2 the time she is just ignoring him. Which I loved!! It was killing Marcus that she wasn't speaking to him. He was falling for her and yet he was still pretty damaged at the same time.

Not only was Luce working hard on the upcoming album. But, the Mpobo-Riddell sister's are planning Noor's wedding. Luce is giving her away. When the sister's get together all I did was laugh my butt off. Between the way they drink their asses off & man do these girls LOVE to shop!! Noor & Luce always have to be careful because  Axelle is in charge of what they spend. It's actually funny as hell. 

"I'll be loving as you will be, as stubborn as I know you are, as passionate as I'm thankful you are and as supportive and understanding as I've known you to be. You are my best friend and I love you" 

Matt, Beesly's husband is making Marcus & Luce life miserable. Every song they write he hates & says no. Until one day he loves them all. They find out he got a acting gig & is leaving town. Beesly is livid because he's going to be near his ex. Let's just say there's very bad blood between the 2 & I'm leaving it at that.

While they're finishing up the album. Enters the hot, sexy dancer Greg. Who's been Luce & her sisters best friend for over a decade. Oh. Did I mention he's been in love with Luce before she ever met him! Marcus gets extremely jealous.  

After countless of blood, sweat & hard loving work it's Noor's big day. Now, being that it's the music & dancing world. Everybody knows everybody. Marcus ends up going to Noor's big day for another family member. He brings his older brother Patrick also called Paddy. I LOVED LOVED  Patty. He's  hysterical & man is he one sexy doctor!! Luce is instantly crushing. Which I love because she loves making Marcus jealous. 

Marcus & Luce get all hot and steamy very quick. After the wedding they go to Marcus & Paddy's parents house. They fall in love with Luce and visa verse. Luce sees what it's like to have parents & a loving family. Something she never had. Other then her sisters & other family members. There is still that void that she's missing. When they are getting ready to leave for 2 different places. Marcus is going to start working on Mary's next album. There are major secrets going on with that. Luce is going back home to finish the last minute 'Second Coming' stuff. Luce puts herself out there. She says those 3 words. Gets nothing back!!

Marcus goes to work. Trying to stay away from Mary as much as possible. Luce gets a frantic phone call from Noor on her honeymoon. She's in trouble & needs her sister. Right before she leaves Beesly lets Marcus's secret out. Thinking Luce knew it. I'm not giving that away. But, how many times can he keep lying to her!!

"It's easier for us to stay away, easier not to remember what we lost or are loosing by being the Mpobo-Riddell sisters, the orphaned ones."

After Noor's out of trouble. They go to their cousins fashion show. They run into Mary. Oh karma really is a bitch!! Marcus walks into work the next day & walks right into Luce. Talk about the table being turned around!! Awesome  Danielle!! As I was reading it the words BAM BITCH  popped in my head!!! 

Now, Marcus must win Luce back. All while Greg is back and trying to win her over. Her heart, mind and emotions are all over the place!! She is also trying to move up in her career. While being the sister Noor & Axelle need. 

I felt for Luce the whole time. Just when she thought she knew what she wanted, and with who. Something or somebody got in the way. Even Marcus isn't dealing with everything properly. Poor Greg. Can he get the girl he's been waiting for? There were times I'd get confused. But, I literally couldn't put this book down. I can not wait to continue to read about this crazy, sexy, strong, independent group of people. Thanks Danielle!!

"Look at me; I'm myself again. Being with you, it took that from me." She keeps backing away. "I like who I am when I'm with him and that's why I love him so much," she tells me.
"Ten years of blind devotion is better then one year of us?"

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