Book Review: The Bourbon Kings (The Bourbon Kings #1) by J.R. Ward

The Bourbon Kings 

By:

J.R Ward

Release Date:

July 28, 2015

Publisher:

NAL Trade

Source:

Hard Copy from publisher for a honest review

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GR's Summary:

The #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Black Dagger Brotherhood delivers the first novel in an enthralling new series set amid the shifting dynamics of a Southern family defined by wealth and privilege—and compromised by secrets, deceit, and scandal.... 

For generations, the Bradford family has worn the mantle of kings of the bourbon capital of the world. Their sustained wealth has afforded them prestige and privilege—as well as a hard-won division of class on their sprawling estate, Easterly. Upstairs, a dynasty that by all appearances plays by the rules of good fortune and good taste. Downstairs, the staff who work tirelessly to maintain the impeccable Bradford facade. And never the twain shall meet. 

For Lizzie King, Easterly’s head gardener, crossing that divide nearly ruined her life. Falling in love with Tulane, the prodigal son of the bourbon dynasty, was nothing that she intended or wanted—and their bitter breakup only served to prove her instincts were right. Now, after two years of staying away, Tulane is finally coming home again, and he is bringing the past with him. No one will be left unmarked: not Tulane’s beautiful and ruthless wife; not his older brother, whose bitterness and bad blood know no bounds; and especially not the ironfisted Bradford patriarch, a man with few morals, fewer scruples, and many, many terrible secrets. 

As family tensions—professional and intimately private—ignite, Easterly and all its inhabitants are thrown into the grips of an irrevocable transformation, and only the cunning will survive. 

Hold on let me get another drink

Ahem, ahem, talk about drama! If Ms. Ward ever tires of writing books she could easily write for day time soap operas. I felt as though I was in the midst of one throughout this read. I really enjoyed her writing style as it kept me wanting more and more. I wanted to keep going and never put the book down. Ms. Ward has been on my radar for quite some time now, and I can see why she has such a large following. I can’t wait to read her paranormal stuff and with this as a glimpse of her writing style I’m even more excited than before. I will absolutely be following this series as I cannot wait to see all the drama unfold.

The Story, a near tragedy brings billionaire playboy Lane Baldwine back home. Though his biggest fear has not come true he is still on the fence regarding letting his guard down. While on a self imposed exile Lane has done nothing but regret every mistake he has made in his past. Now that he is back in the mansion surrounded by treacherous snakes his only reprieve will come at trying to amend all the heart ache he caused his only love. Through trying to make things right with Lizzie, Lane will uncover an intricate web of deceit that is vile to the very core. Things are never as they seem and Lane will learn firsthand how privilege and honor are hardly ever found hand in hand.

The Characters, OMG! I wanted to shake and backhand almost EVERYONE!! These people are CRAY!! LOL, but one thing is for sure they are entertaining. Lane is one of four children and his family runs the best bourbon company in the country. Their childhood held a lot of painful memories that prove money does not equal happiness. I really enjoyed Lane he doubts himself at every turn but we see immense character development throughout these pages. He isn’t without reproach because of his past he has always preferred to cut and run or hide from the spotlight. Now as a grown man he learns that is not the way to handle situations “manning up” he does everything in his power to right his wrongs. Lizzie is a strong hard working independent woman. Her only weakness is loving Lane she doesn’t want to forgive him she wants to forget him. After finding out all of the circumstances of his deception she decides to give him another chance. Unfortunately she was lead by anger and doubt so they had their share of miscommunication. I’m happy to report after serious grief and ups and downs we get our HEA. I typically don’t talk about the side characters and If I were to go into detail about them I’d end up with 10,000 pages! I do want to point out Gin(Lane’s little sister) though she’s a grown woman she acts like a petulant child. She eff’s herself with her mouth so many times I could hardly stand it. There is a scene that broke my heart for her…Gosh I sure hope this girl gets her junk together, I feel like there is a wonderful firecracker beneath the terrible spoiled brat façade. I hope we see it sooner rather than later. Edward the eldest is a wonderful character who is broken…I’m crossing my fingers that he will mend in the books to come! Everyone else was a wonderful addition to the story line…I could go on and on, but I will spare you. Like I said earlier I can’t wait to see what happens next.

The End, WOW!!! Talk about twists!! We get resolution from Lizzie and Lane BUT everything else is still pretty effed up. Do not despair! Although there is a lot to be resolved the reader will not feel cheated at all. Honestly I felt HUNGRY…Hungry for more! There is plenty that happens in this book and each page is as intriguing and entertaining as the first. The author does a lovely job of setting certain things in motion to where the reader will want to know what is going to be the outcome. There are several story lines going on at one time and the things that are left unresolved are all like “pum pum pum” there is also a glimpse of the next book and let me tell you! I tried to resist it but could not final thoughts… OH SNAP. If you are looking for an entertaining drama/ gasp filled read this one is for you! I have to warn you the characters are flawed but the writing is lovely!!

My Rating

4.5 Oh no she didn’t, he’s just drunk again, backhand, backstabbing, where did it all go? are those running shoes? Directly beneath mothers ledge, Enthralling, Entertaining filled stars!

Purchase At:

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Kobo

About J.R. Ward:

J.R. Ward is a #1 New York Times and USA Today Best Selling author of erotic paranormal romance and she also writes contempary romance as Jessica Bird. She lives in the south with her incredibly supportive husband and her beloved golden retriever. After graduating from law school, she began working in healthcare in Boston and spent many years as Chief of Staff of one of the premier academic medical centers in the nation. Writing has always been her passion and her idea of heaven is a whole day of nothing but her computer, her dog and her coffee pot. 

Visit the JRWard Facebook page for more on the Brotherhood or email her at jrw@jrward.com. J.R. 

Ward reads all mail, but due to the volume she is not always able to respond-although she appreciates all the kindness and support!

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Blog Tour: Misconduct by Penelope Douglas

Misconduct

By:
Penelope Douglas

Published:
Dec. 1, 2015

Publisher:
NAL Trade

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Goodreads

Source:
eARC from publisher in exchange for a honest review

Book Summary:

From the New York Times bestselling author of the Fall Away series who never fails to deliver a “powerfully written contemporary love story…”*



Former tennis player Easton Bradbury is trying to be the best teacher she can be, trying to reach her bored students, trying to forget her past. What brought her to this stage in her life isn’t important. She can’t let it be. But now one parent-teacher meeting may be her undoing…



Meeting Tyler Marek for the first time makes it easy for Easton to see why his son is having trouble in school. The man knows how to manage businesses and wealth, not a living, breathing teenage boy. Or a young teacher, for that matter, though he tries to. And yet…there is something about him that draws Easton in—a hint of vulnerability, a flash of attraction, a spark that might burn.



Wanting him is taboo. Needing him is undeniable. And his long-awaited touch will weaken Easton’s resolve—and  reveal what should stay hidden…

Lindy's Thoughts:

Captivating, and erotically delicious is how I would describe Misconduct by Penelope Douglas.  This story was full of suspense, seduction, sexy mind games, and the allure of the forbidden.  Ms. Douglas writes exhilarating romance with the perfect amount of heightened anticipation, the push-pull of strong, independent leading characters, and just enough scandal and suspense, to hold the reader's attention from beginning to end.

Easton Bradbury is an intelligent, independent, and beautiful young lady.  She just received her master's degree, and is beginning her career as a history teacher at the illustrious private school, Braddock Autenberry, located in New Orleans.  Easton has been through tragedy and despair, and this reflects in her very stoic, strong, sassy, resilient, and independent nature.  She is completely surprised when she learns that Tyler Marek, a powerful businessman and aspiring senator, is the father of one of her most challenging students, Christian Marek.

Tyler Marek met Easton at a masked Mardi Gras Ball, six months prior to discovering that she was Christian's new teacher.  He was drawn to her beauty, wit, and the way that she spoke her mind.  However, before he could find out more about her, she left the party.  Unfortunately, Tyler knows that it is a conflict of interest to get involved with one of his son's teachers.  Yet, he can't seem to stay away from her....

Misconduct was excellent!  I loved the dynamic between Easton and Tyler.  They constantly challenged one another, and things never got boring when the two of them were together.  Tyler had to find balance in his life.  He was always so busy, that instead of succeeding at what was most important to him, he constantly felt like he was failing.  Easton helped him to be a better father, and with her in his life, he was able to re-prioritize.  

Easton had problems with needing to control every aspect of her environment.  She didn't take risks, have fun, or enjoy her life, until Tyler entered it.  Seeing these two break open their shells, and discover each other's multiple layers was a gift.  With the build up of an emotional undertone, the physical relationship between the two of them became that much more powerful.  We get the a ton of intriguing suspense in the story with Easton and Tyler taking many risks sneaking around, Easton's secret past being revealed little by little, and a stalker that is determined to wreck havoc on her life.

  

My Rating:

I give, Misconduct, by Penelope Douglas, 4.5 Captivating, Sensual, Battle of Wills, Alluring Stars!  Ms. Douglas has written an excellent story that readers will be sure to find exciting, entertaining, invigorating, and suspenseful.  Tyler Marek is my newest obsession!

Mikki's Review:

When I started my reading challenge for 2015 I made a list of my 10 most anticipated books. Four of those books belonged to Penelope Douglas. She's an auto-buy author for me, which means that I devour everything that she publishes the moment it goes live! I don't need to read the blurb or see the cover to know that I will love my reading escape. Her heroines are always strong and sassy and her heroes have all graduated with honors from a**holery class...teehee!! ;)

I really love student/teacher romance novels. When I read the blurb for Misconduct, I was surprised to find out that the heroine was the teacher and the hero was the father of one of her students. It's a nice change and I was looking forward to reading something different. This might not be a student/teacher romance, but it had many similarities. The age difference between the characters, the forbidden romance and the many obstacles thrown their way before they found their well-deserved HEA.

From the moment Easton Bradbury meets Tyler Marek, sparks fly. There is something so intense about him that captivates Easton. What she never expect was for Tyler to be the father of one of her students. The pull that she feels toward him is unquestionable, but is she ready to play with fire? Or will she have enough strength to resist the enigmatic Tyler Marek?

I can't even begin to tell you how freakin' blazing hot this book was!!! Sweet baby Jesus!! This book was filled with sexual tension and steamy encounters. Easton and Tyler have such a powerful chemistry that I not only read their journey together, I FELT it! I had butterflies in my stomach and the tingle effect was full blast ---> ON!! From the moment that they met, I knew that these two would cause fireworks whenever in the same room. They were two strong and confident characters. 

I absolutely loved my reading journey! Penelope Douglas did a fantastic job with Misconduct. I have to admit that it was different from The Fall Away Series and Corrupt, but I really liked it. The heart-pumping moments were present and it was impossible for me to put this book down! 

I really loved that we got to follow the characters in their daily routine. Both of them have fascinating careers and I learned a lot. Easton is a fantastic teacher. I love her teaching techniques and how she helps her students. Tyler is a business tycoon that has no limits. He will do whatever it takes to achieve his goals. They both had personal struggles, but with each other's help they overcame the impossible. It was easy to relate to these characters and their story. You won't be able to resist them! Easton and Tyler will own your heart! 

I have no clue what Penelope Douglas will write next. The only thing that I know for sure is that the moment that book gets a cover and a blurb, it will make my most anticipated list. You can't go wrong with the awesomeness that is Penelope Douglas! I highly recommend all of her books. Be prepared to fall in love with characters and stories that will live in your heart FOREVER!!!!

My Rating:

I give Misconduct, by Penelope Douglas, 4.5 seductive, deliciously addictive, fascinating, erotically tantalizing stars!

Book Teaser:

Purchase At:

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BAM | Kobo | iBooks

About Penelope Douglas:

Penelope Douglas is the author of the New York Times bestselling Fall Away series. She has her Masters of Science in Education from Loyola University in New Orleans and she currently lives in Las Vegas with her family.

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Group Review: Toxic by Kim Karr

Toxic

by Kim Karr

Release Date:
July 7th, 2015

Publisher:
NAL Trade

Source:
Publisher via NetGalley

eARC received in exchange of honest review

Synopsis:

He Loves Me, He Loves Me Not... 

New York Times bestselling author Kim Karr turns up the heat in a smoking hot, emotionally compelling new novel that takes you into the world of Manhattan’s elite. 

In Toxic, Jeremy McQueen, a sexy, intense, sometimes brooding entrepreneur goes after what he wants—the woman he left behind years ago. Phoebe St. Claire, a put together, in control socialite-turned-CEO has been drifting through life searching for something she thought she'd never find again—the right man to share her future. 

Our passion was boundless. Our lust untamed. And our desire endless. He was the only man who ever made me feel alive. Then, I betrayed him. 

When he reappeared, I didn’t question it. Trust rarely survives the wrecking ball, so when he let me in back in—I didn’t hesitate. 

Maybe I should have. 

What began as a bid to save my family business, turned into a second chance at love. It felt so romantic. Working together, side by side, with the man I loved. My dream come true. 

Nothing is as good as it seems. 

We had our issues, but then again, every couple does. It wasn’t jealousy, or our too-hot sex life that I should have been worried about. 

It was his darkside. 

I never saw the end coming, until it slammed me in the face. The question is—did he? 

Was revenge his plan all along? 

**** 

Sometimes you have to wonder if your life is too good to be true. Is it real or just an illusion? Does the man lying beside you really love you like he says he does? If the answer is yes, you’re meant to live happily ever after. If the answer is no, you’re living my life, and nothing will ever be the same. 

What you do about it—that’s up to you. 

Me, I’m in too deep and there’s no getting out. 

I’ll take whatever I can get for as long as I can because I know when it’s over… 

I’ll never find another man like him. 

Ever!

Purchase Links:

Amazon | B&N | iTunes | Kobo

Lindy's Thoughts:

Toxic was one of these books that kept me guessing from the beginning to the very end.  I love books that make me think, and this one had my mind working overtime!  Phoebe St. Claire and Jeremy McQueen shared a young, passionate and whirlwind love affair.  However, things ended abruptly due to mistrust, and a lack of truth.  However, Phoebe never got over Jeremy.  She has never found that type of love, and can't help but compare everyone else to Jeremy.  Several yeas later, Jeremy returns to New York, and reenters Phoebe's life.  Is this their second chance at love, or does Jeremy want revenge?

The pacing of Toxic was really slow for me, and took me some time to get in to, and connect with the characters.  I enjoyed reading about the upper-echelon of society, and seeing how different their lifestyle was from mine.  They had money at their fingertips, power, and the world was their playground.  However, they also had problems in their love lives, loneliness, family issues, and difficult decisions to make.

Phoebe St. Clair was a character that I related to.  She loved all things Aubrey Hepburn, wasn't a snob, wanted a passionate and all consuming love, and was loyal to her friends and family.  Jeremy McQueen was enigmatic, sexy, raw, and powerful.  I was drawn to him like a moth to a flame.  However, I constantly questioned his actions, as did Phoebe.  It looked like he loved her with all of his heart, but then Phoebe would discover something that looked incriminating time and time again.

Toxic had a great theme.  It showed the destructive power that jealousy, mistrust, insecurity, fear, and uncertainty can bring to a relationship.  This was a great life lesson that anyone can learn from.  The plot gave us plenty of raw eroticism, plot twists, unexpected surprises, and food for thought!

Rating:

I give, Toxic, by Kim Karr, 4 Raw Sexuality, Once in a Lifetime Love, and Enigma Filled Stars!

Time Cannot Erase True Love

Toxic is a hit OMG I loved every second of it! Kim Karr is one of my favorite authors. Regardless of what the story is one thing always resonates throughout…love, a soul encompassing all empowering love. Phoebe and Jeremy are no exception the sparks and connection are instant, the love almost as instant but certainly deep and no amount of time could change that. Karr does a wonderful job of keeping the reader engaged. From the uppity friends to the true blue friends everyone played an integral part in the development of these two characters. I absolutely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a fun and sexy romance. 

The Story, life as Phoebe knows it is starting to crumble before her. As acting CEO she needs to figure out how to save her hotels. Being a part of an elite circle in New York doesn’t come without a price and her family can no longer afford it. Losing the love of her life nearly destroyed her but he is back and his secrets along with hers begin to unravel, marring their love with the most shocking twists. The pacing was wonderful I could not put it down. Jeremy and Phoebe are absolutely electric no one else stands a chance. There are so many times my heart was in my stomach but everything played out beautifully. I could not be happier.

The Characters, Phoebe and Jeremy met at an awful time though their love was intense had they been honest neither would have stood a chance. These two are tied in a way that is absolutely shocking I nearly had a heart attack when I was left alone with my own conclusions. These two are toxic in different ways but together they are absolute nirvana, if that isn’t reason enough to fight then nothing is. Their development and willingness to fight for each other is one of the things I loved most. Phoebe’s neighbor was an amazing addition to the story providing sound advice when she needed it most. 

The End, once everyones truth is out Phoebe will not go down without a fight. Her entire life has been planned out for her but this love she feels is the only one like it. Both Jeremy and Phoebe made plenty of mistakes when it came to their relationship. Being able to love and forgive was the main reason these two came to their senses. Not to mention the help of key friends and family that weren’t about to sit by and watch these two give up. Through lies and omissions these two were able to let their love speak for them and come together for what is truly important. The happiness these two shared is not something you give up on. I loved the way this ended definitely an HEA Jeremy and Phoebe were absolutely electrifying I could not have asked for a better afternoon read!!

My Rating

4.5 Engagement, Broken, Twenty One, Love Affair, Actual Affair, Parties, Kit-Kat, Hotel, Jet Set, Mother, Condo, Club, Dinner, Connection, James Dean, Page 6, Truman, McQueen, Sales, Entrapment, Dawson, Lost, Hampton House, Tiffany’s, Inexplicable Powerful Love Filled Stars!! 

Mikki's Review:

This was my second time reading a book by Kim Karr. The first book I ever read from her was The 27 Club. My co-bloggers are big fans of her Connections series, but I still did not have a chance to read it. I hope I get to read it very soon since I have heard such amazing things about that series. I enjoyed The 27 Club and I was looking forward to her new standalone novel. I don't think she could have chosen a better name for this book. Phoebe and Jeremy's relationship was toxic indeed!

I love second chance romance book. There is a je-ne-sais-quoi about these romances that give me all the feels. I love seeing how a couple gets a second chance to make things right. Phoebe and Jeremy fell in love when Phoebe was 21. Jeremy was her everything until her world came crashing down. He has always been on her mind. It's been years since she has seen him, but he comes back in her life unexpectedly. Their chemistry is stronger than ever and Phoebe is determined to make things work this time around. As days go by, Phoebe starts discovering secrets and lies from the past that involve Jeremy.  Will these secrets put in jeopardy her new relationship with Jeremy?

Like I always mention in my reviews, my connection to the main characters is very important. I have to admit that I did not connect at all with Phoebe. I just could not understand some of her reactions towards Jeremy. The only thing that Jeremy wanted was a second chance. He worked hard to win back her love, but her insecurities got in the way. Both of them had jealousy issues, but I wanted Phoebe to just thrust Jeremy and give him a chance to explain when things got all mixed up between them.

Jeremy was a great character and I loved his intensity. I could really feel the love that he had for Phoebe. He was a simple and determined guy. He knew what he wanted and would stop at nothing to get it. Even if I had trouble connecting with Phoebe, I have to admit that the chemistry between these two was awesome. There are a few steamy scenes that are very well written. Hot, sexy and passionate! Kim Karr knows how to write some pretty steamy scenes!

I liked the supporting characters in this story. My favorite one was Mr. Bardot. I would love to have a neighbour like her! She's awesome!! This second chance romance was very well written. Kim Karr never fails to captivate with her amazing writing style! If you are a fan of second chance romance you will love Toxic! I loved how Phoebe and Jeremy worked hard to get their relationship to a happy place. It was a journey full of obstacles, but together they made it work.

Rating:

I give Toxic, by Kim Karr, 3.5 enjoyable, second chance at love stars!

About the Author:

I live in Florida with my husband and four kids. I've always had a love for reading books and writing. Being an English major in college, I wanted to teach at the college level but that was not to be. I went on to receive an MBA and became a project manager until quitting to raise my family. I currently work part-time with my husband and full-time embracing one of my biggest passions—writing. 

I wear a lot of hats! Writer, book-lover, wife, soccer-mom, taxi driver, and the all around go-to person of the family. However, I always find time to read. One of my favorite family outings use to be taking my kids to the bookstore or the library. Today, my oldest child is in college and my twins are on their way, so they no longer go with me on these outings. And although I don't need to go to the actual store anymore because I have the greatest device ever invented—a Kindle, I still do. There's nothing like a paperback. So now my four year old and I make dates out of going to the bookstore--it's time I love and cherish. 

I like to believe in soulmates, kindred spirits, true friends, and Happily-Ever-Afters. I love to drink champagne, listen to music, and hopes to always stay young at heart.

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Book Review: Vicious Cycle (Vicious Cycle #1) by Katie Ashley

Vicious Cycle
Vicious Cycle #1

By:
Katie Ashley

Published:
June 2, 2015

Publisher:
NAL Trade

Add to Goodreads

Source:
eARC from publisher for a honest review

GR's Summary:

New York Times bestselling author Katie Ashley revs up the danger and sexual tension in her brand-new Vicious Cycle romance series. 

Deacon Malloy’s life is dedicated to the Hell’s Raiders motorcycle club. Tough, hard, and fast with his fists, he serves the group as sergeant at arms. But his devil-may-care approach to life is thrown for a loop when the five-year-old daughter he never knew existed lands on the club steps. 

Alexandra Evans is devoted to all her students—but there’s always been something about Willow Malloy that tugs at her heart. There’s an aura of sadness about her, a girl in need of all the love Alexandra can give. When Willow stops coming to school, Alexandra’s search leads to a clubhouse full of bikers…and a father hell-bent on keeping his daughter always within sight. 

The moment Deacon sees Alexandra, he has to have her in his bed—and he’s never met a woman yet who couldn’t be persuaded. No matter how attracted she is to Deacon, Alexandra refuses to be just another conquest. But it’s Deacon himself who could be seduced—into a brighter future for himself, his daughter, and the woman he’s falling for against all odds.

Lindy's Thoughts:

Vicious Cycle is the first book that I've read by Katie Ashley.  I've heard many great things about her books, and was excited to finally get to read a book that she wrote.  Also, I am a huge fan of MC Club romances, and can't get enough of these type of stories!  My favorites are the Reapers MC series by Joanna Wylde and the Chaos series by Kristen Ashley!

Vicious Cycle is about Deacon Malloy and Alexandra Evans.  Deacon is the Sergeant at Arms in his MC Club, the Hell's Raiders.  One day he is shocked to find out that he has a five year old daughter, Willow.  Willow's mother Lacey was murdered, and now he must assume full responsibility for her care.  

Deacon pulls Willow out of school when he learns that she is in danger.  A long-term enemy of the club is out of prison, and is the person responsible for Lacey's death (the only woman Deacon has ever loved).  After missing too much school, and repeatedly trying to get a hold of Deacon, Miss Alexandra Evans, Willow's Kindergarten teacher, decides to visit Willow's home to check on her.  Imagine Alexandra's surprise when she meets Deacon, a dangerous, rough around the edges, outlaw biker.  

Deacon let's her know that Willow is in danger and will not be returning to school.  Alexandra and Deacon come to an arrangement that includes Miss Evans teaching Willow at home.  As these two begin to interact on a daily basis, Deacon becomes hot for teacher, and Alexandra can't resist the sexy bad boy.  However, danger lurks around every corner, and Alexandra has to learn how to function in the MC club world if her and Deacon are to be together.

There were aspects of Vicious Cycle that did not work for me as well as aspects that I enjoyed.  I had a difficult time liking Deacon, and found it extremely difficult to relate or be attracted to his character.  I love a bad boy, but he must have a good heart.  This isn't to say that Deacon didn't have a good heart, but he came off as extremely harsh, cold at times, and even when layers where peeled back, there just wasn't enough warmth in his character to win me over.  At the beginning of the story, he left a bad taste in my mouth, when he said some truly despicable things to a man he was torturing.  I understand that he was bluffing, but what he said was so abhorrent, twisted, and truly made me sick to my stomach.

I loved Alexandra at the beginning of the story.  She came off as very sweet, nurturing, compassionate, and patient with little Willow.  However, her personality changed drastically as the story went on.  I didn't recognize the character that I had once loved.  She revealed a secret that made me look at her differently, and some of her actions in the story didn't match up.  It was like she was two different characters.

The story itself was extremely fast-paced.  I was entertained, and there was a lot of action and suspense.  I loved the secondary characters in the story.  Willow was a doll, and I felt so badly for all that this little girl had to endure.  I liked Deacon's adoptive brothers Rev and Bishop.  Rev stole the show for me!  He was sexy and sweet, protective and nurturing.  This big man had an even bigger heart, and I can't wait to get his story!  I want him to find a good woman to love.            

My Rating:

I give, Vicious Cycle, by Katie Ashley, 3.5 MC Club Life, Dangerous Enemies, Passionate, Learning to Love Filled Stars!  I am looking forward to the next book in the series, Redemption Road, because it is Rev's story, and I already love his character so much!

Mikki's Review:

Vicious Cycle, by Katie Ashley, is the first book in her new MC series. I was really excited to read this book since I absolutely loved the Proposition and Runaway series! I love her writing style and her characters are simply irresistible! I knew going into this book that this story was going to be different. It's always more darker, intense and suspenseful in the MC world.

Deacon Malloy is surprised find out that he has a five-year old daughter. When Willow shows up on his doorstep, he is left speechless. It takes him some time to get used to the idea. Alexandra Evans connected with Willow Malloy from the first moment that they met. When Willow misses school for a few days, Alexandra goes looking for her. When she visits Willow's home she is surprised to find out who her dad is and where she lives. Deacon is the sergeant at arms of the Hell's Raider MC and because danger is lurking close by he decided to keep Willow at home. Alexandra and Deacon come to an agreement that she will come every day after school to teach Willow. As days go by, Alexandra gets closer to Deacon and his family. Deacon never expected to fall for his daughter's teacher, but when an enemy from his past comes back to cause trouble, Deacon will do whatever it takes to keep his daughter, his family and Alexandra safe.

I really enjoyed this book. The story kept me interested from beginning to end, but I had a hard time connecting with the main characters in some scenes. Their reactions in some situations left me speechless. I really liked Alex and how she handled the difficult situation Willow was in. What I did not like was how Alexandra's character changed. She was an interesting heroine to follow at the beginning of this journey.  The things she did to catch Deacon's attention were just all over the place and that is when I lost my connection with her.

With Deacon I never felt a connection. His first scene in the book turned my stomach upside down. I did not like what he said and how he acted. It was hard for me to connect with him after that. I can't deny that the chemistry between Alexandra and Deacon was hot, but it fell a little bit short in the romance department.  We also got a few scenes between him and Willow, but I wanted to see more. What I did love were his scenes with his family and friends. I could really feel the love he had for them.

The plot was good and the author included a few twists that I did not see coming.  Even if I found a few problems along my reading journey of Vicious Cycle, I am looking forward to Redemption Road. This will be Rev's book. He was my favorite in Vicious Cycle. I connected more to his character than I did with his brother Deacon. He deserves an amazing HEA and I can't wait to meet the lady that will steal his heart. He's such a wonderful person!

My Rating:

I give Vicious Cycle, by Katie Ashley, 3.5 enjoyable, fast-paced, intense stars!

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About Katie Ashley:

Katie Ashley is the New York Times, USA Today, and Amazon Best-Selling author of The Proposition Series, Runaway Train Series, as well as several New Adult and Young Adult titles. Her latest series, Vicious Cycle, has been picked up for publication by Penguin Books. 

She lives outside of Atlanta, Georgia with her two very spoiled dogs. She has a slight obsession with Pinterest, The Golden Girls, Harry Potter, Shakespeare, Supernatural, Sons of Anarchy, Downton Abbey, Designing Women, and Scooby-Doo. 

With a BA in English, a BS in Secondary English Education, and a Masters in English Education, she spent 11 1/2 years educating the Youth of America aka teaching MS and HS English until she left to write full time in December 2012. 

She is represented by Jane Dystel of Dystel and Goderich Literary Management.

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