REVIEW: A Ruthless Proposition - Natasha Anders

Title: A Ruthless Proposition

Series: No

Author: Natasha Anders

Release Date: January 26, 2015

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3.5 Stars

ARC received via NetGalley for an honest review

"You're it, Cleo.

You're her. You're my she. My other. Mine."

I have only read one previous book from Natasha Anders, The Unwanted Wife, which got my emotions got all twisted up. So when a fellow blogger told me that her newest book to be released is available on NetGalley, I stopped everything and read it. 

A Ruthless Proposition is Cleopatra and Dante's story. Natasha Anders seem to hit the spot when it comes to jerk-asses of a hero because Dante is even worse than Sandro (The Unwanted Wife) and I thought Sandro was a total ahole. The synopsis of ARP caught my interest right away as I was in the mood for something forbidden but light with a shower of angst. I was mistaken. Cleo and Dante's story was not light, I was caught off guard with the plot and although I welcome surprises, this one just didn't stick all that well for me. But I did enjoy the "forbidden" aspect and the angst. I really am one of those readers who couldn't help liking the aholes who always end up being the sweetest guy.

Overall, A Ruthless Proposition satisfied me and the author delivered yet another emotional couple to remember.

Stars: 3.5 stars

Recommended to: 

Series: No.

POV: Third person.

Extra Comment: I can't wait to read what the author has in store next for us!

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REVIEW: Fighting Solitude (On The Ropes #3) - Aly Martinez

Title: Fighting Solitude

Series: On The Ropes #3

Author: Aly Martinez

Release Date: February 2, 2016

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 5 Rocky Stars

This is it. We have finally come to the "end" of the Page brothers' story with Quarry. I've had mixed emotions waiting to read how Fighting Solitude will go. What I was not feeling, though, was worry. Worry that Quarry's story will disappoint me in any way. Well, I was worried how many tissues I will have to go through but that's it. I was excited to read his story, I was happy I will get to read Till, Flint, and the rest of the crew again, I was nervous how Q will handle what happened with Mia and what that means for him and his life, and I was also emotional knowing that this is the last of the On The Ropes series. I don't feel like letting them go yet.

While and after reading Fighting Solitude, I knew my not having to worry about how the author would write Q and Liv's story was well justified. The author has yet to let me down when it comes to her characters and her storytelling. Fighting Solitude actually caught me by surprise because when I assumed one person will react a particular way that I know for sure will frustrate me, I'm left feeling relieved that it wasn't the case. Yes, this is Quarry Page I'm talking about. If you think Till and Flint are sweet romantics, wait until you read Q in all his glory! I am dubbing him as the most adorably sweet Page brother. Ever. I love that he was a bit hot-tempered but extremely patient with Liv, he was understanding, he was melt-my-panties hot, and so sweet my teeth ached. 

For those who were initially worried if Liv is the girl in this book, don't be. Liv James is here to stay. Now, I easily admired and connected with Aly Martinez's heroines, but Liv tested my patience a lot of times. I wanted to reach into the pages and shake her so hard or just take Q for myself. Whichever works. Of course, my boy Q was super patient and proved to her again and again that he's not going anywhere and finally, Liv dived in with everything she has. 

"Our love was dense -- filled with the solitude of our past but empowered because we'd made it through together."

The journey these two characters went through to get to their happy ending was not a smooth-sailing one. They had several bumps, a huge road block, and a detour to finally be together. But through all the tears I shed, the smiles and the romance I experienced while reading made it all of it more than worth it. Fighting Solitude, and the rest of the On The Ropes' books, is a story of love, family and friendship that I won't be forgetting anytime soon. There's actually scene in this book about Blakely (Till + Eliza's daughter) that had me dreaming hard about a series for the kids already! 

Stars: 5 stars
Recommended to: You. Her. Him. Them. Everyone who digs romantic alpha dudes.
Series: Yes. Interconnecting characters.
POV: First person. Dual POV.
Extra Comment: As usual, Aly proved how cruelly talented she is in making me cry and swoon at the same time. Who does that? I'm crossing my fingers I get to see more of the Page brothers and their lovely families! ;)

(pre-order)

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REVIEW: Cunning (Infidelity #2) - Aleatha Romig

Title: Cunning

Series: Book 2 of 5

Author: Aleatha Romig

Release Date: January 19, 2016

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5 Cunning Nox Stars

ARC received from the author for an honest review

"In Del Mar, I'd given him my heart. I knew that now because today he had broken it."

If I thought the second part of the Infidelity series will quench my thirst from Betrayal, I was sorely mistaken. Sure, Cunning gave me answers to some of the questions I had from the first book, but I should know Aleatha Romig will just keep us coming back for more because while she gave me answers, she also presented more intriguing plots that had me thrilled for the 3rd book already.

The way Betrayal ended had my heart racing and muttering an, "Oh My Gosh!", and with Cunning, Nox suddenly wasn't on top of my favorites. I was questioning why, how, what, and throwing in occasional swear words because really, he was being more of a jerk than a hot alpha male. However, however, when I finally got to his POV, I understood him! Oh how I understood him better and let out a loud, "So, that's why!!!". Note that I was out of town with friends and we were in our cabin when I did it. I got questioning looks.

But going back on topic, aside from the different emotions that Charli and Nox pulled out from me, I might end up spoiling things for those who have yet to read this. I am positive that if you are into romance with a twist of mystery, a huge dollop of sexiness, with characters that are so easy to hate and love and love so much more, Aleatha Romig will deliver. Cunning is definitely one that will leave you satisfied from the ache of the first book, yet have you looking forward for the next book at the same time.

Stars: 5 stars

Recommended to: Everyone who enjoys a good mystery with their romance.

Series: Yes. Book 2 of 5.

POV: First person. Mostly Dual POVs. 

Extra Comments: The POVs from Alex/Charli's mom added a serious punch to the story! Also, I don't know why but I prefer her as Charli, please don't be confused.

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REVIEW: Sex Love Repeat - Alessandra Torre

Title: Sex Love Repeat

Series: No

Author: Alessandra Torre

Release Date: November 2013

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5 Separate Worlds Stars

"Overlapping cannot happen."

I am not a fan of love triangles or cheating. I can tolerate snippets or sneak peeks. I cannot handle it as a theme for an entire book. But that's not to say I haven't read my share of cheating dudes and love affairs of lonely wives, it's just that I steer clear of them until maaaaaaaaybe I might be in the mood to challenge my self and that's exactly what happened to Sex Love Repeat for me. I've had my Kindle copy for almost 2 years before I had the sudden urge to want to read it.

My verdict?

Holy Crapola WhamBamBoom! I couldn't have picked a better read to start off my 2016 with a huge bang. Sex Love Repeat is unlike any of the love triangle-cheating books that I've read. With those books, I easily get frustrated with either the main hero, the heroine, the other guy or girl, or the story itself or even worse, the storytelling. But no, Alessandra Torre just had to bulldoze Paul-Maddison-Stewart into my mind and made me root for all three of them. Well, not all 3 together. You get my point, though. I was admittedly worried, however, I was willing to dip my toes into this book because I have loved the books I've read from this author. 

When an author manages to hypnotize me with her words and writing, regardless what the story is, and leave me speechless and in awe, I am always open to read anything else she comes up with. This book just proved how powerful Alessandra Torre's talent is in sharing an untraditional love story and still make the readers love them. And I loved the characters in this book, there wasn't a scene where I wanted to stop and put my Kindle down, no infuriating hero and heroine that tempted me to throw my Kindle to the wall, no dialogues where I just want to scream at them to get their heads on straight, I'm left with wonderment that I was enjoying every flip of the page and surprised that I cried my eyes out! 

Oh, I almost forgot to share that tidbit, huh? Yes. This book made me cry and reach for ice cream (good thing I still have a pint left from the holidays!). I wouldn't say it's a "bad" cry, it's more of a "damn that's so sweet" or "stop please my heart is breaking" kind of tears and truth be told, that added more to my love of Sex Love Repeat. The author didn't just write a love triangle story, she wrote a love story that touches not just the one guy and the girl in between but also that of the other guy, and believe me, I was holding my breath who she'd end up with until the end.

Love, tears, and twist. There's a touch of intrigue to the characters and a twist that changes everything. In case my point got lost in all of my ramblings, THIS BOOK IS FABULOUS!!! Sex Love Repeat is easily my first book on my Best of 2016 reads!

Stars: 5 stars

Recommended to: Face your fears, give Paul, Maddison, and Stewart a chance! If you already dig the love triangle theme, Sex Love Repeat is a must read.

Series: No. I'm crossing my fingers for a spin-off, though. 

POV: First person. Multiple.

Extra Comment: I'm still left awestruck by how much I loved the characters and the story.

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2015 Top 9 Most Read Reviews

Earlier, I've shared my Top 10 2015 reads and now, it's also fitting to share the Top 9 most viewed / visited / read reviews in Mara's Bookshelf. And unlike my top 10 books, the photos are listed in order.

Are you one of these posts readers?

1. Trust - Ella Frank (318 views)

Looks like we have a lot of M/M readers than I think! Logan and Tate took the top spot for my most visited review for 2015!

You can read my Trust review here and purchase it here.

2. Beyond These Walls - J.L. Berg (167 views)

Also in my Top 10 2015 favorites and very deserving of both spots, I must say.

You can read my Beyond These Walls Review here and purchase it here.

3. King - T.M. Frazier (141 views)

T.M. Frazier's book is also included in Top 10 2015 favorites, although it was not King, King started my addiction for this author's stories and led me to Bear.

You can read my King review here and purchase it here.

4. Insitgation - Tessa Teevan (115 views)

The first book in The Clandestine Affairs series and a different side to Tessa Teevan's writing. Different but as exciting as ever!

You can read my Instigation review here and purchase it here.

5. Toxic - Kim Karr (112 views)

I always love some Kim Karr books on my shelf and each of this author's books never fails to intrigue and capture my heart.

You can read my Toxic review here and purchase it here.

6. Unexpected Fate - Harper Sloan (107 views)

*dreamy sigh* I will probably never get enough of the CS family even if they reach 10 generations into the series.

You can read my Unexpected Fate review here and purchase it here.

7. *we have a tie!* Forgetting August - J.L. Berg
Walk Through Fire - Kristen Ashley (104 views)

This just makes me happy. 2 of my favorite authors share a spot for my top reviews for 2015!

You can read my Forgetting August review here and purchase it here.
You can read my Walk Through Fire review here and purchase it here.

8. Fighting Silence - Aly Martinez (97 views)

I mentioned in my earlier post how I wanted to to add all her 2015 releases to my Top 10 but thank you to my followers for reading my review of Fighting Silence and helping with the views, I'm so happy the older Page bro is on the list.

You can read my Fighting Silence review here and purchase it here.

9. Beyond The Consequences - Aleatha Romig (90 views)

Gaaaah! This series had me all twisted up and I loved every mind torture I endured because their HEA is uniquely theirs!

You can read my Beyond The Consequences review here and purchase it here.

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2015 Reads Rounded in Ten

First off, I would like to greet everyone a very HAPPY NEW YEAR! My wish for myself, and for everyone, a good health not just for me but my loved ones, happiness in everything I decide to do, and more travels! I actually have a list lined up for my travel plans this year. So, let's all cheer to that!

And now, on to the main event... my Top 10 loved stories for 2015! It was difficult picking 10, I initially thought of doing a Top 5 but I know I'll just torture myself, so 10 it is. To further lessen the torture, this list is in no particular order at all and you'll notice how mixed my genres are for last year (I can't believe I'm referring to 2015 as last year).

Here goes:

1. Walk Through Fire - Kristen Ashley

Because who doesn't adore Kristen Ashley and the magic of her words? While Own The Wind is my favorite in the Chaos series, Walk Through Fire just squeezed my breath out of my lungs.

You can read my Walk Through Fire review here and purchase it here.

2. The Road Back to Us - K. Webster

This author kept surprising me at every turn this year... I meant last year. With all of her surprise releases, this book remained close to my heart. 

You can read my The Road Back to Us review here and purchase it here.

3. The Fall Up - Aly Martinez

Okay, I'm going to admit it, I wanted to add all of this author's 2015 releases on my top reads but I figured I should just choose one, no matter how difficult it is, because she already knows how freaking much I'm in love with the Page brothers anyway! The Fall Up felt personal for me, so I'm giving Levee and Sam this one spot on my top 10.

You can read my The Fall Up review here and purchase it here.

4. Fusion - Tessa Teevan

From the first book where I read Sierra and Jeremy's story, I was already interested and now several Tessa Teevan books later, Fusion came to life and it was wonderful! It was sweet, it was cute, it was dreamy, and I loved every word in every page of their story. Friends to lovers, what's not to love?

You can read my Fusion review here and purchase it here.

5. Full Measures - Rebecca Yarros

Full Measures was published in 2014 but I haven't read it until February 2015 and oh my gosh my heart! 

You can read my super short but sweet Full Measures review here and purchase it here.

6. Reap - Tillie Cole

When I received an email from St. Martin's Press to review Reap, I might have flipped out a little. This book, I have no enough words how hooked I was.

You can read my Reap review here and purchase it here.

7. Command - Nina Levine

I felt like I was betraying Nash but Scott proved to be one heck of a hero and it was hard to fight back my feelings.

You can read my Command review here and purchase it here.

8. Perfect Ruin - Nashoda Rose

Going from sweet, emotional and sexy to sweet, emotional, sexy, and edgy, Perfect Ruin ruined my sleep but it was well worth it.

You can read my Perfect Ruin review here and purchase it here.

9. Lawless - T.M. Frazier

Here I thought I can only love cute bears like stuffed teddy bears, polar bears, panda bears, but Bear freaking topped them all!

You can read my Lawless review here and purchase it here.

10. Beyond These Walls - J.L. Berg

Jude and Lailah made me fall in love with their story in Within These Walls and reading about their life after all the things that happened, made me fall in love with them even more.

You can read my Beyond These Walls review here and purchase it here.

These were my Top 10 picks for 2015, what about yours?

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Holiday Blog Hop Giveaway: Enter to Win a $350 VISA Gift Card

Welcome to Mara's Bookshelf! If it's your first visit, we hope you like what you see and take some time to sift through our reviews, check out our book news, author interviews, and more! And if you're already a fan, WE LOVE YOU HARD CORE! Also, there are lots of new book blogs and authors for you to check out! Just follow the instruction on the giveaway widget and earn entries as you explore and find some new favorites for a chance to win a $350 Visa Gift Card. This giveaway is international so no one is excluded!

This Giveaway is made possible by all those who have donated. Please DO NOT follow or like a page unless you truly want to be a follower. All entries are verified. Don't like and follow and then unfollow these pages. These type of entries will be voided and removed. 


Holiday Blog Hop Giveaway

Goodluck, everyone!

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