Tag: annabelle-jacobs

2018 Favorite Reads – Sheri

.Reading time 10 minutes.

“Should Old Acquaintance be forgot, and never thought upon…” Wait? What?! It’s over?? Where did this year go? This wraps up my sixth-year book blogging and I can’t believe how fast time flies by. One of my favorite end of the year traditions is taking a moment to celebrate the books that made the biggest impression on me during the past twelve months. The direction and flow of my reading may change slightly but looking back I realize how blessed I am. I find great joy and comfort slipping into the wonders of my kindle and I couldn’t do that without all of the courageous authors that continue to gift us with their stories. I believe in creating your own bit of happiness and carving out book time with my favorite, or perhaps new, author is one of the ways that I find sunshine. So to all the authors out there…thank you. Thank you for coming into my life, bringing light, and making me…happy.

In no particular order,
Here are my most treasured books from this past year…..

“Vanilla Clouds” by Roe Horvat – Last year I had a striking moment of ‘love at first page’ and I am still hopelessly in love with Horvat’s stories. Roe continues to slay me with their clever gift of saturating the pages with fierce emotions. This particular tale is like a drop of ambrosia and dipped in pure ecstasy. It is delicious and divine. If you haven’t experienced the unique style of Horvat yet, I urge you to do so. This is a heavenly place to start.  AMAZON

 

“Slide” by Garrett Leigh – I had another sublime year with Garrett Leigh. I attempted to pace myself for adequate savoring time but it was a futile endeavor. Once my journey with Pete and Ash began, I couldn’t stop. If you are in the mood for a powerful and potent story that is sure to knock you down but will lift you to places you’ve only dreamed of…Slide is everything you need. You may want to plan ahead and grab the entire series, trust me on this one. AMAZON

 

“Galaxies and Oceans” by N.R. Walker – Walker continues to secure her place on my auto-buy list. This story begins with an electrifying bite and I was hooked from the first page. Aubrey and Patrick demonstrate the healing powers of love. Their love is deeply passionate, fierce and firm, and beautifully brave. If you’re looking for swoon, eager for sexy, and wish to be captivated by a love story mapped by the stars, follow the light here. AMAZON

 

“The Story of Us” by Barbara Elsborg – This story rocked my world. But isn’t just a story…it’s an experience. This experience isn’t just moving…it’s a string of explosions. These explosions transfer from the pages…and directly hit your heart. I was overwhelmed with a tsunami of feels. Zed and Caspian will forever hold a place in my heart. This heartwrenching tale isn’t for everyone but if you’re feeling bold, prepare for turmoil and trust, hurt and healing, and limitless love. AMAZON

“Point of Contact” by Melanie Hansen – This powerful and stunning story wrung me out. Hansen has the profound ability to obliterate my heart and then slowly piece it back together again. One man brings two together and then leaves them. Trevor witnessed Riley’s first breath and Jesse witnessed his last, and this connection soothes two broken men unlike anything else. If you love your books with turbulence and a torrential downpour of emotions, this is for you. AMAZON

 

“Shattered Glass” by Dani Alexander – I am totally late to the party on this one. I would love to extend the invitation if you haven’t fallen into the rabbit hole…yet. Trust me, it’s a place you want to be. I adored both Austin and Peter. This sassy story is an elaborate journey of twists and turns. Alexander delivers a complete package of bellyaching laughs, eye leaking sniffles, foot stomping tantrums, and spontaneously combusting passion. The sequel should be coming next year and I can hardly wait! AMAZON

 

“A Chosen Man” by Jaime Reese – This series owns me. Every single time…each new couple…takes me far past my expectations. There really is no comparison. I hope they continue talking to Jaime for many more books to come because I’m without a doubt addicted. I LOVE them. This time around we have Wall and Dylan. They are very different men in a very difficult and dangerous situation…but you can’t stop love. Trust, tenacity and tender hope spark a fire between them. Their story is brimming with adrenaline, attitude, and an abundance of love.  AMAZON

“If I Should Stumble” by Claire Davis & Al Stewart – This fabulous penning duo blows me away with their words. Kaz is a refugee in the UK and he instantly stole my heart. I liked Zach but I loved that he was everything that Kaz needed. Kaz has suffered and he has suffered greatly. But now he has love, strength, and light to chase away the demons. Their story is phenomenal and Davis and Stewart marvel me with their eloquence. This is the third book of Tork and Adam and if you’re not yet acquainted, I highly suggest you do so. Then make your way to Kaz and Zack and please give them both my love.  AMAZON

“Deal Maker” by Lily Morton -I’m head over heels in love with Morton’s charming stories. I can’t get enough! Jude and Asa are larger than life. This is the second book in the series and it’s just as spectacular as the first. The writing, the humor, the flow, the balance…it’s all spot on. This story is rich in comedy, feels, and passion. It has absolutely everything I consider necessary to compose a stellar read.  AMAZON

“Bitten By the Alpha” by Annabelle Jacobs – This is a remarkable series that I simply can’t get enough of. I felt like I won the lottery when I found out Cam and Gareth were going to have their own book. Jacobs not only excels with her incredible realm but surpasses all other shifter series in my opinion. The man, the wolf, the shift…she covers it all with a masterful hand. Cam accepts his fate and allows himself to love again. It is glorious! If wolves call to you, The Regent Park pack outdoes, outruns, and outshines every other shifter series I’ve read. Seriously, you need them. AMAZON

And there you go! This completes my best of 2018 with an honor’s list of: “A Springful of Winters” By Dawn Sister, “Lucky” by Garrett Leigh, “Shades” by Jaime Reese, “Private Charter” by N.R. Walker, “Someday It Will Be” by S.A. McAuley, “Just like Heaven” by Suki Fleet, “A Love Song for the Sad Man in the White Coat” by Roe Horvat and “A Christmas Angel” by Eli Easton. I’ve found my solid circle with a few new faces and they continue to rock my world.

2018 was gone in a flash. I am grateful for the countless blessings bestowed upon me, my family, and friends. Cheers to a new and bright year! And yet again…I hope the new year brings you lots of laughter, love, and books that will…. shake any funk.

Hugs,

sheri

“Bitten by Her” by Annabelle Jacobs

.Reading time 7 minutes.

about

Brought together by fate, torn apart by family.

Rachel Tregarrak, Penwith pack beta and daughter of the alpha, has always called the rugged Cornish coast her home. With its beautiful landscapes, bracing sea air, and vast spaces to run, she can’t imagine living anywhere else.

After years of living with her mother in her grandfather’s pack, Sara Gallen returns to Penzance to be with her alpha father and her brothers. She wants to build their relationships, get to know the rest of her family better than occasional visits allow.

When their paths cross on the full moon, the attraction is immediate and instinctive. But Sara’s father refuses to allow such a union and forbids any further contact. Sara finds solace with her grandmother in her alpha council residence, and Rachel is sent to a London pack to keep her out of trouble. Both women feel the desperate ache of an uncompleted bond, but unless they find a way to be together, it’ll fade to nothing and their connection will be lost.

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“Bitten by the Alpha” by Annabelle Jacobs

.Reading time 6 minutes.

about

Gareth’s heart is set on Cam, but Cam’s heart broke a long time ago. 

As alpha of the Regent’s Park Pack, Cam’s focus is always centred on its members—his personal life pushed aside after the death of his wife. Now that his pack has merged with the Primrose Hill shifters, he can’t afford any distractions.

Gareth’s been in love with his alpha for years, but his position as beta complicates matters. Added to the fact Cam still mourns his late wife, Gareth knows his feelings will never be reciprocated, so he buries them deep.

With the two packs already struggling to unite under one alpha, they get a surprise addition—one who causes more tension within the ranks. Under such strain, long-kept secrets are forced into the open. Gareth and Cam must deal with the aftermath, while also keeping the pack’s best interests at heart.

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2017 Favorite Reads – Sheri

.Reading time 13 minutes.

The end of the year is here, which for me means too much good food, lots of bubbly and a time for reflection. I always look forward to taking a few moments to pause and remember the highlights from the last twelve months. Books are a huge part of my life. They bring me great comfort; my kindle is almost like a security blanket and certainly one of my most prized possessions. Even when I was unable to read for a few weeks, it never left my side. I am forever grateful for the brave authors in this world. Providing an escape, whether it be fluff and smut or angst-ridden and tearful, is a priceless gift. So, thank you! I treasure my book time and I would be lost without you. I had the pleasure of discovering new authors and found myself in new trope territory too! I couldn’t stay away from the angsty reads again this year and melted into a few beloved series from the year before. All in all I was quite fortunate and it was another stellar year of books.

Let’s get this book party started,
Here are my most cherished books from this past year…..

 

“The Layover” by Roe Horvat – Whoa. This novella left me thunderstruck. I was drawn to it for some reason when the review request list came along and I’m beyond thankful I took a chance on it. A shiny new author rocked my world and left me gobsmacked. As I declared in my post-read daze, it is real, it is raw and it’s remarkable. The last time a novella left such an impact on me was when I was flying high with “Skybound” from Voinov. Truly powerful writing is the only link between the two books. Every word has a purpose in an impressive and compelling manner. Believe me, this is phenomenal and worth reading if you haven’t.  AMAZON

 

“Misfits” by Garrett Leigh – I was introduced to Leigh near the end of last year and I’ve quickly become a devoted reader. She is fearless and takes us on hellacious rides. This particular adventure was not one I would have sought out before I began reading everything she has penned. Three? Ménage? Throuple? I would politely decline and move along. Because….I didn’t get it. And then Garrett opened my eyes and my heart to three awesome men I will never forget. I understood how two people can fit together perfectly and yet they still require one more piece to bind them in place. A secure connection that doesn’t interfere, simply locks them. Gorgeous story that I think everyone should experience. AMAZON

 

“Kidnapped by the Pirate” by Keira Andrews – *blink* This was…..another blindside. I don’t read historical romance. I’ve tried before and just couldn’t find the appeal. Until now. Andrews takes us back, wayyy back, and I couldn’t get enough. A naughty pirate and a naive young man pulled me into their turbulent world of forbidden love and I longed to stay. It was sassy, sweet and of course, sexy. Keira has become one of my auto-buy authors for good reason. If you haven’t jumped on this “juicy” journey, you are sorely missing out!  AMAZON

 

“Arrows Through Archer” by Nash Summers – I don’t think it’s necessary to disclose I’m friends with the author but I’ll put it out there. Yes, I think Summers is an awesome person but she’s also an awesome author. I’ve had the pleasure of watching her grow and this book is her best work in my opinion. This story is a tsunami of feels and I willingly threw myself into the storm. It’s not often characters stick with you but I have no doubt Mallory and Archer are with me for the long haul. If you haven’t read Summers yet, this is a marvelous place to start! AMAZON

 

“True Colors” by Anyta Sunday – I don’t read a lot of YA but I DO read a lot of Anyta Sunday. This was a tragically beautiful second chance story of true love. This book hurt…but it hurt so good. Two best friends were ripped apart in the most agonizing manner and then reunited years later. The damage was severe and the time apart has not been kind. Sunday delivers a powerful first love, true love, only love story that should make the cut of all YA readers. And hey, even if you’re not, I bet you’ll agree this story is worthy of all the colors of the rainbow. AMAZON

 

“Be My Best Man” by Con Riley – This book!!! Sensational spellbinding storytelling at its best. Yet another new-to-me author that blew me away. A complex love story that requires patience from the reader but will reward you in the most astounding fashion. Prepare to endure real life oppressions, adversity, and afflictions. The storm clouds are dark and heavy but when the sun comes out, it will take your breath away. This story needs to make it to the big screen. I just KNOW it would kill it as a blockbuster. Con Riley, I’ve got my eye on you and I can’t wait to see what you have in store for us in the upcoming year. AMAZON

 

“A Worthy Man” by Jaime Reese – If you know me at all, you know I’m proud to be Jaime Reese’s number one fan. I know I’m not alone (check out all the gushing reviews!) but there are valid reasons why I am obsessed with her stories. The Men of Halfway House are all unique and equally dreamy in their own imperfect ways. But Vann And Drayton? I think they are my favorite. But don’t tell Julian. Or Cole. Or Ty. Or…okay, I can’t pick a favorite. Clearly, they are all impressive for different reasons. Vann and Dray are soul mates. They have been separated for nearly two decades and are finally reunited. Reese demonstrates the stark difference between a lover and a soul mate and if you believe in eternal love, you need this book. Seriously, go get it….  AMAZON

 

“Play Dead” by Avery Cockburn – The Glasgow Lads knocked me off my feet last year and I was thrilled we had the chance to slip back into their world again. Things pick up from the moment the previous book left off, so it’s important to know their story before you begin this one. All of the couples in the series are fantastic but I really enjoyed the continuation of Andrew and Colin’s story. This novella felt deeply intimate and I couldn’t deny the powerful emotional pull. This is as serious as it is sensual. The balance was brilliantly done. Sexy Scots are apparently my weakness and I hope Avery continues to gift us with more of their powerful plays! AMAZON

 

“Rule Breaker” by Lily Morton – Another new-to-me author! Such a wonderful year, meeting and adoring new authors. I was instantly smitten with this grouchy boss and charming assistant. Their rocky and rough road was full of broken rules and I was utterly and completely engrossed in their story, I couldn’t put it down. Morton won me over with her sharp writing, witty characters and forbidden passion. It’s not often I experience story quicksand (where you can’t leave the pages and sink deeper and deeper) but this was one sticky fight I was content to lose. It’s clear to see Lily loves her guys because she continues to add bonus scenes (free on her website!) just because she wants to. I appreciate and respect this act of love. These wonderfully wicked men are not to be missed! AMAZON

 

“Bitten By Desire” by Annabelle Jacobs – Paranormal romance is still my all-time favorite trope and Jacobs remains on top with her superior wolves. This series is my most anticipated for 2018 and this story is best of the best for 2017! SO GOOD. I was on the edge of my seat and squealed and sobbed as I read. Jacobs presents an impressively intricate storyline driven by deeply emotional characters. It was INTENSE. If you are a shifter fan and haven’t met The Regent’s Park Pack, stop what you are doing and race your fingers here…  AMAZON

 

“Lickety Split” by Damon Suede- I gotta give props when they’re due and this is one story that shouldn’t be overlooked. I have tremendous respect for Suede’s writing and this story is a prime example of why. When Damon creates a story he pours himself into the pages. There’s nothing wrong with the powerhouse writers that churn out several books a year but there’s something to be said for the careful and cautious crafters. Suede’s words are magical, powerful and full to the brim. This cowboy and his pup took me on a (scorching hot) ride I won’t soon forget. Reckon you’ll feel the same.  AMAZON

 

Well, that’s it! This concludes my best of 2017 but I can’t go without shout outs to: “Heart” by Garrett Leigh, “The Perils of Intimacy” by Rick R. Reed, “Snowblind” by Eli Easton, “Leo Loves Aries” by Anyta Sunday, “Lucky Man” by Garrett Leigh (as you can see, I’m kinda addicted to Leigh) “Off the Beaten Path” by Cari Z., “Summer Heat” by Jay Northcote and “Married for a Month” by Cate Ashwood. It wasn’t easy (which I think is kinda great) to narrow down my top ten…or eleven this year…but ha, who’s counting?

2017 seemed to fly by, I still can’t believe it’s over! I made some amazing and unforgettable memories with my family, friends and of course, my books. I hope 2018 brings you lots of laughter, love, and books that will…. shake any funk.

Hugs,

sheri

“Not Just For Christmas” by Annabelle Jacobs

.Reading time 7 minutes.

about

Ben has Christmas, cats, and mistletoe on his side…. Jason doesn’t stand a chance 

For Ben Slater, moving back to Bristol means being closer to his family, living with his best mate, and volunteering at the local animal shelter. But there’s also Jason, his best mate’s eldest brother. Ben’s had a crush on Jason for as long as he can remember, but the eleven-year age gap has always seemed insurmountable.

Jason Armitage works as a vet at his uncle’s practice. He owns a cute cottage on the outskirts of the city, and a loving dog. The one thing missing is someone to share it all with. His brother’s best friend seems a bad choice, but Jason can’t help taking a second look. Ben’s changed a lot since Jason last saw him; both in appearance and attitude. Gone is the shy young boy, replaced with a confident, twenty-four-year-old man.

In the run up to Christmas, the festive period gives Ben the ideal opportunity to show Jason what he has to offer. But concerns for his brother’s feelings hold Jason back. If they have any chance of making this work, Ben must convince Jason that he’s old enough to know what he wants, and Jason needs to believe that a relationship with his brother’s best friend won’t ruin their friendship.

 

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“Bitten by Desire” by Annabelle Jacobs

.Reading time 8 minutes.

about

Two lovers from rival packs. Have they come together only to be forced apart? 

Alec Knight, a beta in the Regent’s Park pack, guards his heart carefully. Ghosts from his past keep him alone and angry, any hope of a relationship impossible while guilt from the pack wars still haunts him. With the anniversary drawing near, Alec needs a distraction.

As a lowly member of the Primrose Hill pack, Mark Appleton isn’t used to having his alpha’s attention. Lately he’s had more than his fair share, and not for the right reasons. Despite growing suspicions that all is not well, Mark tries hard to do better, but constant criticism leaves him desperate for a stress outlet.

Sex is a good way for shifters to let off steam, and while their packs attack each other with accusations and lies, Alec and Mark work out their frustrations in bed. Pillow talk and shared secrets lead to a closeness neither was expecting, but when pack relations reach an all-time low, any future for them seems out of the question.

If they want to be together, they’ll have to go against their alphas’ wishes—except Alec won’t and Mark can’t.

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“Maybe This Time” by Annabelle Jacobs

.Reading time 6 minutes.

about

Moving into a new home starts with a bang when Ryan Blackwell celebrates turning thirty. Being hungover means he’s bleary-eyed and clumsy the next day, but even in that state, he can appreciate how sexy and fit his neighbour is.

Matt Thomas isn’t looking for anything long-term—one and done is usually his life rule. Why settle down early, like his sister, when casual relationships are so easy? With Ryan living in the same building, chance encounters are inevitable. When one night together becomes two, a friends-with-benefits deal seems a natural progression.

There’s only one problem: sex with no strings relies on matching expectations, so Ryan can’t help worrying. His huge heart always wants more, but Matt’s been clear about his limits. As passion leads to caring, they’ll have to make some tough decisions—maybe this time, breaking some rules will be worth it if that means they’ll get to share a future.

 

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“Bitten by Design” by Annabelle Jacobs

.Reading time 7 minutes.

about

When the last thing you want, is everything you need….

Seb Calloway isn’t interested in shifters. After his best friend bonded with one, he avoids getting involved with them—no matter how hot they are—to prevent the same thing from happening to him. Why take the risk for a few hours of fun?

Tim Walters is the pack doctor. Considered to be mild-mannered and non-threatening by pack standards, he prides himself on being able to stay calm and maintain his control at all times. Desperate for a bond of his own, he knows his interest in Seb is an exercise in futility, but he can’t seem to help himself.

When news emerges that threatens Seb’s safety, he and Tim need to fake a relationship to keep Seb safe. Despite Seb’s refusal to be anything other than friends with benefits, what starts out as pretend, quickly becomes more—for Tim at least. If Tim doesn’t want to end up heartbroken, he needs to prove to Seb that loving a shifter doesn’t mean losing himself.

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“Bitten by Mistake” by Annabelle Jacobs

.Reading time 5 minutes.

about

From animosity to searing passion in a lunar cycle… but can their bond survive?

Wolf shifter Nathan Kohl’s pack is his whole life. Arrogant and handsome, he avoids commitment to anything or anyone outside of his pack. He works hard, plays hard, and pursues humans as lovers because there’s little to no chance of him forming a permanent bond. However, when Jared Taylor comes into Nathan’s life, every rule is broken.

After a bad experience, Jared vowed to never get involved with another shifter, no matter how much they got under his skin. Despite being physically attracted to Nathan, who’s all kinds of hot, Jared only sees an arrogant, domineering bastard.

A disastrous case of mistaken identity throws Nathan and Jared together until the next full moon. Forced to spend the next twenty-eight days in close proximity, they can no longer ignore the powerful attraction between them. Passion ignites, and their relationship takes a turn neither of them wanted.

But when the full moon comes, everything might change again.

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“A Christmas Kiss” by Annabelle Jacobs

.Reading time 5 minutes.

about

Keeping secrets from your best friend isn’t right, but it’s easier than admitting you’ve fallen in love with him.

Sharing a late-night kiss with his best friend, Alex, is Riley’s dream come true. Waking up to discover Alex was too drunk to remember anything is more like a nightmare. Scared the truth could destroy their friendship, Riley keeps quiet and pretends nothing happened.

Alex can’t shake the feeling that he said or did something stupid on their group’s drunken weekend away—why else would Riley be avoiding him? Although the explanation he finally gets sounds plausible, Riley’s still acting strange, and trying to figure out why that is unearths emotions Alex has worked hard to bury.

Riley knows not telling Alex how he feels is probably selfish, but he wants one last normal Christmas before he has to come clean and face the potential fallout.

He should have known it wouldn’t be that easy.

 

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