The Booksnake Etc.

Hi booksnakes!! I have something really special for you guys. I know we have Marian Tee Mania going on, but this event is something that has been planned out even before MTM started. Please don’t hate me because I promise you guys this is SO worth it, and there’s a chance that you’ll be one of 5 winners of a signed paperback of Cement Heart and a $50 Amazon gift card.

I have been given an ARC by our lovely author and her team as part of their blog tour, and admittedly I read it pretty late because of some personal stuff. So in true booksnake fashion, I read the entire thing in 4 hours to make sure I have my review up and running. Let me tell you, it wasn’t a hardship at all.

Title: Cement Heart
Author: Beth Ehemann
Genre: Romance, Sports & Games, Contemporary
Publication Date: March 15, 2015
Source: ARC Given by Author
Tour Organized by: The Book Avenue

I have reviewed a couple of Best Selling Author Beth Ehemann’s work before, Room for You and Room for More. These two books (and another one titled Room for Just a Little Bit More) are about Brody and Kacie. It’s a wonderful love story, but more than that, there was a character introduced there named Viper – the man with a Cement Heart.

NOTE: There will be spoilers!! Because that is how I roll. *wink*

SYNOPSIS:

Lawrence Finkle, known simply to his die-hard Minnesota Wild fans as Viper, isn’t used to hearing the word no. He lives his whole life just a little on the reckless side. After all, life is just one big game, right?

Wrong.

When what was supposed to be an innocent bet goes horribly wrong, he’s left to deal with the aftermath—and the guilt. In an effort to make things right the best way he can, he ends up falling for the one person on the planet he never should have.

The old saying goes that two wrongs don’t make a right . . . or do they?

CHARACTER BACKGROUND:

Lawrence Finkle a.k.a. Viper is a man-whore. There’s no other word for it! (Sorry Beth *awkward laugh*) He screws everything that walks, and sometimes even two at a time. He’s the guy that has nothing to live (or die) for. He genuinely believes that if he’s gone, nobody would even care. He deeply cares for a very few people only, so when he lost a friend – a brother – he loses himself.

TO LOVE:

Let me begin by saying that I DID NOT expect where this story was heading – at all! Originally I thought that this story would be about Viper and Darla, because they have been hooking up in Room for More…but I was wrong. I would say that I hated that, but honestly, I didn’t.

In general, I loved how very unpredictable this book is. Whatever expectations you have when you start reading it, will be completely shattered when you continue. I know because I have never been so wrong in my entire life when I assumed I knew what this book was about.

This book made me realize how completely unexpected life is – or how it ends. One minute you’re laughing and not giving a damn, and the next, POOF! Everything has changed. You lose someone, and in the process, you lose yourself. That’s what happened with Viper.

This is kind of ironic for me, but Viper didn’t have a lot of sexual thoughts towards Michelle – which you’ll get to know once you read the book. There are two reasons why I was a bit taken aback by this. First, he is a hornball and that is not a secret. You would assume that if he’s digging someone, he’ll have very explicit thoughts. Second, most romance novels would have a lot of mushy details. Like, “I felt my heart racing when she opened the door.” But there weren’t a lot of that here, which I liked very much because it was VERY realistic. I mean, a guy like our leading man wouldn’t have such sweet thoughts. It’s just not him. So I liked how Beth didn’t suddenly make him a heart and roses kind of guy overnight.

TO BLEH:

Their team didn’t make the playoffs? Bummer! *sad face* Kidding. I didn’t really have any bleh moments. It’s possible that because I was trying to finish it as fast as I could I didn’t really have the chance to dwell on the “negatives”.

SUMMARY:

So overall I loved this book. In my own opinion though, I think this should be the last installment in the series. It’s already a good ending, and it still leaves a lot of things to the imagination. So obviously this is “TO-READ”, and I give this a 4.5 out of 5 stars.

GIVEAWAY!!

Now without further ado, like I promised, there are certain people who’ll be lucky enough to win prices. YAY!! (Though I am not one of them *sad*)

How do you enter? Click on this link and follow the instructions.

AUTHOR LINKS:

ORDER NOW:

Room for You:

B&N

Room for More:

B&N

Room for Just a Little Bit More:

Amazon

B&N

Kobo

iTunes

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Beth Ehemann lives in the northern suburbs of Chicago with her husband and four children. When she's not sitting in front of her computer writing, or on Pinterest, she loves reading, photography, martinis and all things Chicago Cubs. She's represented by Jessica Watterson of the Sandra Dijkstra Literary Agency.

Book Reviews Marian Tee Mania Specials

MTM Day 11: REVIEW of How Not to Marry A Billionaire

March 11, 2015

11th day of Marian Tee Mania and I have something special for you! *singsong voice* Remember how we finished Constantijin and Yanna’s story in Caged, book 3 of the How Not to be Seduced by Billionaires series? Well…it’s NOT yet over!! Yay!

As part of the Eternally Seduced book set, New York Times and USA Today Best Selling Author Marian Tee included a short book as conclusion to Kastein and Everleigh’s romance, titled Not to Marry A Billionaire.

It’s supposed to be read AFTER Saffi and Staffan’s story, but before Rathe and Mary’s. Like I said, it’s pretty short, but it gives us a really good “closure”. So without further ado…

Title: How Not to Marry A Billionaire (How Not to be Seduced by Billionaires #3.5)
Author: Marian Tee
Genre: Romance, Contemporary
Source: Bought

SYNOPSIS: (I personally did this, so I apologize in advance)

Because of everything that happened between them in the past, Yanna is having a hard time giving herself fully again to Constantijin. She’s trying her best to guard her heart, even if that means unintentionally hurting the love of her life.

Constantijin however, would not be deterred so easily. He would have Yanna forever – but how much doubt and pain can he really take?

CHARACTER BACKGROUND:

Constantijin Kastein is still, you guessed right, a billionaire! (Is he in Forbes list? *wink*) But what’s different between him now and him before? Constantijin now really wants to have Yanna in his life as his wife. Him before, a.k.a. Netherlands’ #1 playboy, well…was just an ass*shrug*.

Yanna Everleigh have somewhat changed. She’s now a bit more apprehensive when it comes to her relationship with C-man. Aaaaaand she seems to be more stubborn than usual…just my kinda girl.

TO LOVE:

It’s nice to see them have their happily-ever-after. I remember reading How Not to be Seduced by Dukes and suddenly found myself asking, “Are Yanna and Constantijin married already?” So this answered that question.

I also found it amusing how our billionaire didn’t give up on our quirky leading lady. He was so keen on tying her to him that he had the decency to “make” her say “Yes” to the questions being asked during the wedding ceremony. Though, I would NEVER want to find myself in that situation, it’s still funny to imagine that actually happening in real life.

TO BLEH:

I didn’t really have any bleh moments due to the fact that it was too short. I sort of just savored the story, you know?

SUMMARY:
Overall, it’s a good short story. I would, of course, give this a “TO-READ” stamp because it’s just wrong for me to deny you a happily-ever-after type of ending.

This is not sold separately, if I’m not mistaken. So if you guys would read this, you have to get the Eternally Seduced box set.

So that is it for now. Do let me know what you guys think, and for our 10th day of MTM, we’ll be reviewing the last installment of the How Not to be Seduced by Dukes series titled The Ice Around My Heart. This would also conclude the Pussketeers collection. *sob*

Book Reviews Marian Tee Mania Specials

MTM Day 10: REVIEW of Dear Greek Billionaire

March 07, 2015

As I’m writing this, I currently have puffy eyes and a pile of used tissue right beside my laptop. I just finished reading Dear Greek Billionaire by the very talented Marian Tee, and it was, as expected, a rollercoaster ride. This is why I have decided to stray from my planned review posting. This review will now be for my 10^th day of MTM.

This book went live a few hours ago and I just knew that I had to get my hands (and eyes) on it ASAP. I downloaded the book, got to reading it, and a few minutes later (I was on chapter four) I received a message from the lovely author herself telling me that she sent me an ARC (Advanced Reading Copy) of the book. Do I regret the purchase? No, I most certainly DO NOT. Why? Because she deserves, like other writers who work so hard to give us such amazing books, to be paid for such great work.

Title: Dear Greek Billionaire (The Greek Billionaire and His Secretary #1)

Author: Marian Tee

Genre: Romance, Contemporary

Source: Bought and was given and ARC by the Author

SYNOPSIS:

27-year-old Stavros Manolis urgently needed a secretary of a certain caliber, but the only one who met his standards was a troublesome young woman who flouted authority whenever she could. She grated on his nerves, but she also made his blood quicken the way no woman had, not even the one he had once loved and lost.

24-year-old Willow Somerset knew she couldn’t afford to antagonize her Greek billionaire boss, but she couldn’t help it. He was so damn perfect, and she hated it. But what she hated more was the way her body could only come alive in his arms.

Willow knew she could never have a chance with Stavros. But then she caught him looking at her – in a way a boss should never look at his secretary.

Could that be what she thought it was?

CHARACTER BACKGROUND:

Stavros Manolis did not have the best parents in the world. It’s true! Ask him. This resulted in him being who he is; cold, distant, and great-looking. (Hey! I never said his parents were ugly on the outside. At least they were good for something.) He did not want love, neither to give or receive it. But a certain foul-mouthed woman with absolutely no filter starts to break down the walls that he has built around his heart.

Willow Somerset IS said foul-mouthed woman with absolutely no filter. Her childhood was awesome! If living with a psychotic mother who beats you to death because you’re not enough, and tells you to stop trying because you’re worthless is considered awesome. This is why she doesn’t want love as well. But all that changes when she realizes that she’s falling for her infuriating boss.

TO LOVE:

When I read TheBillionaire and His Secretary, the prequel to this book, I knew that I would fall in love with this series. And I did; hook, line, and sinker. Once again, I was drawn to the characters because their childhood was just horrible. The things they had to go through. I just loved the depth it gave the story.

Another thing that I absolutely loved was the dialogue. It was just so witty and the exchange was quick and amusing. Kinda makes me wonder if Ms. Tee has a sharp tongue in real life. *arms crossed with brow raised*

And I think this makes me a masochist, but I just love it when our lead characters are in pain. Why? Because it makes the relationship more interesting, don’t you agree? And besides, relationships in real life aren’t all rainbows and butterflies, so seeing fictional characters experience love problems…well that just makes my day. *evil laugh*

TO BLEH:

Stavros slept with another woman?! I mean, how much of a douche move is that?! I guess I was expecting him to be celibate because he only wanted one woman. But no, he needed to be a man-whore. By the way, I don’t blame the author for coming up with this, I’m just really feeling for my girl.

SUMMARY:

I loved this book! I guess that’s pretty much obvious. So I give this a “TO-READ” stamp. And if any of you are wondering why all of Marian Tee’s books I give an affirmative stamp, don’t worry…I just really love her ‘em. But for the sake of being fair, I will review a book by her that I wasn’t a huge fan of. What that is? You’ll find out soon.

Anyway, I hope you get a copy guys. You won’t regret it.

Book Blitz Specials

SPECIAL!! Sneak Peek of Dear Greek Billionaire by Marian Tee

March 06, 2015

I’m really excited about this! New York Times and USA Today Best Selling Author Marian Tee recently released a sneak peak for her new book titled Dear Greek Billionaire. It’s a story about Stavros Manolis and Willow Somerset. I’m not going to get into the details now, but you can read my review for the prequel to their story The Greek Billionaire and His Secretary.

Here’s a little something from Ms. Tee to us.

CHARACTER BACKGROUND:

27-year-old Stavros Manolis urgently needed a secretary of a certain caliber, but the only one who met his standards was a troublesome young woman who flouted authority whenever she could. She grated on his nerves, but she also made his blood quicken the way no woman had, not even the one he had once loved and lost.

24-year-old Willow Somerset knew she couldn’t afford to antagonize her Greek billionaire boss, but she couldn’t help it. He was so damn perfect, and she hated it. But what she hated more was the way her body could only come alive in his arms.

Willow knew she could never have a chance with Stavros. But then she caught him looking at her – in a way a boss should never look at his secretary.

Could that be what she thought it was?

EXCERPT:

Stavros heard himself say, “I need you to make a call for me.”'

A…call?

Flustered and more than a little perplexed at the command, she lifted the iPhone up. Clearing her throat, Willow asked, “Who do you want me to call, sir?”

“Cara Newton.”

Her heart stumbled to a stop. “C-Cara Newton?”

“You heard me.” His gaze was unreadable now, his beautiful face cold. “Let her know I’d appreciate her company for dinner.”

Cara Newton.

Although Willow didn’t know everyone in the fashion industry, she would have to be living under a rock to not recognize the name Stavros had given. Cara was currently the world’s favorite It Girl, thanks to her savvy ways with social media.

Was it really that Cara Newton Stavros wanted her to call?

As she searched for Cara’s name in the phone book with not-so-steady fingers, Willow wondered if this meant they were dating. And if they were---

Her heart sank as she found Cara’s name, the photo saved to it confirming her worst fears. She clicked Call and her gaze rose to meet Stavros’ as the phone began to ring.

If this was how he wanted to play it, so be it. But she wanted him to see how he was killing her.

“Hello?” Cara’s voice was easily recognizable, her Southern belle drawl made famous by a rather risqué beer commercial that had debuted in last year’s Super Bowl.

“Good morning, Ms. Newton. This is Mr. Stavros Manolis’ secretary, Willow.”

Stavros wanted to smash something the moment Willow spoke. There were no tears in her eyes, but…he knew. He goddamn knew what this was doing to her. What he was doing to her.

“Oh, hello, Willow,” Cara greeted her sweetly over the phone. “Is your boss there?”

For a moment, Willow wasn’t sure of what to say.

Cara suddenly laughed. “Oh, right. You’re new, aren’t you? Sorry, don’t panic. I know the drill.” She giggled. “And between you and me – I know you’ve signed a confidentiality agreement so I know the secret’s safe – he drills me quite good, too.”

Willow whitened at the words.

“If he has you calling me, then he’s probably busy,” Cara was saying in a reasonable voice. “He always is. I suppose I should be thankful that when he’s not too busy, I’m his number one choice for a booty call.”

Willow’s fingers tightened around the phone, the only thing she could do to relieve the pressure building inside of her. She forced the words out between bloodless lips. “I appreciate the confidence, Ms. Newton.”

“Oh my God, you’re so cute! Did I embarrass you?”

“Not at all, Ms. Newton.” She was holding the phone so tightly now she wouldn’t be surprised if she ended up breaking it apart. “Mr. Manolis was wondering if he could have the pleasure of your company for dinner tonight?”

Cara snorted. “Dinner, ha. Darling, that’s your boss’ polite way of saying he wants to fuck me. He’s never taken me out to dinner, and we’ve been having sex for months now.”

The model sighed. “But even so, he’s my unhealthy addiction.” Another sigh. “Very well, Stavros’ new secretary. Could you let him know I have work tonight so if he’s free, maybe he could come by my place lunchtime? I’ll be naked by then.”

“I will let him know, Ms. Newton.”

“You’re a sweetheart.”

When Cara hung up, Willow said tonelessly, “Ms. Newton says to please come by her place lunchtime since she has work tonight.” Before Stavros could answer, she told him flatly, “She wanted you to know she’d be naked by then if so.”

The words arrested him on the spot, and the lack of light in her eyes as she said them crucified him.

Fuck, fuck, fuck.

“Willow---"

How painful was that to read? From such a short preview, I almost cried. Seriously! And our dear author is pretty vocal about how much heartbreaking it will be in full. Well, I have no qualms about that. I just hope Stavros would experience as much pain as he’s giving Willow. *cold shoulder*

If you guys haven’t read The Greek Billionaire and His Secretary, do get it from Amazon. It’s now free. YAY! Check out other books from Ms. Tee, and do sign up for her newsletter.

Book Reviews Marian Tee Mania Specials

MTM Day 9: REVIEW of How Not to be Seduced by Dukes

March 03, 2015

Hey Booksnakes! We are now on our 9^th day of Marian Tee Mania, and this also signals the beginning of a new series titled How Not to be Seduced by Dukes. It’s still a part of the Pussketeers collection, and it’s the story of Rathe Wellesley and Mary Ashton. It’s a two-part series, and we’ll be reviewing the first one. Second installment is titled The Ice Around My Heart, which was released recently.

This series, if I were to be completely honest, frustrated the heck out of me. Why? Because it took quite a while for the second installment to come out!! Now, I don’t blame Ms. Tee because she’s a very busy person. But that didn’t stop the anticipation from pissing me off a bit. *breathing deeply*

Title: How Not to be Seduced by Dukes (How Not to be Seduced by Dukes #1)

Author: Marian Tee

Genre: Romance, Contemporary
Published on: February 3, 2014
Source: Bought

SYNOPSIS:

At 34 years old, Rathe Wellesley, a powerful and gorgeous billionaire nobleman, has his life all planned out – or so he thinks until he meets Mary, a lovely but socially awkward genius who is nothing like his future duchess should be.

Raised by a crazed and oppressive stepfather, 18-year-old Mary Ashton finds herself swept off her feet by the duke and tossed out of her home for daring to kiss a man before marriage.

By choosing to be with Rathe, Mary’s life is completely transformed, leading an ordinary life as a college student during the day…and living the glamorous and passionate life as the duke’s mistress at night.

It’s not the life she’s dreamt of but the look in Rathe’s eyes keeps Mary from leaving. It’s a look that tells her maybe, just maybe he could fall in love with her, too.

CHARACTER BACKGROUND:

Rathe Wellesley is royalty. He’s rich, drop-dead gorgeous, and well-mannered. He’s infamous for being cold and distant. And like true Pussketeer fashion, he’s afraid of commitment. But to be clearer, he’s afraid of a real relationship with our leading lady, because of a traumatic past – which haunts him till this day.

Mary Ashton is a survivor and a fighter. These are words that aptly describe her. She survives from an abusive life and a majorly f***ed up stepfather, and she constantly fights for the love she feels for Rathe. Even if it means she has to be his mistress to be with him.

TO LOVE:

It’s intense. And it tackles a subject that I don’t think I’ve read from other books. I won’t give anything away, but I will say that I think Rathe was a bit too hard on himself. But I guess that’s what happens when you’re not just an elite, but part of the royal family.

I really found Mary’s background awesome. Not that what happened to her was in any way awesome, but the story it makes is great. And it’s also nice to see that she didn’t let what happened to her ruin her life. She really is a survivor.

There are a lot of wonderful points in this book, but I can’t tell ‘em here without giving anything away. And I promised myself that I would refrain from spoilers on this review. So, moving on…

TO BLEH:

I think Mary’s demon was “defeated” too quickly. For those who have read the book, I’m sure you’d understand what I mean. I just think that it should’ve been more dramatic, and maybe a bit more – painful. I don’t know if I’m just being biased since I’ve read other books by New York Times and USA Today Best Selling Author Marian Tee, and I know she CAN make people experience pain. Eh, anyway, it’s still good that the evil entity has been defeated.

SUMMARY:

I’m still going to give this a “TO-READ” stamp, because it’s good and IT IS part of the Pussketeers collection. Speaking of which, we still have 2 more books to go before we wrap this collection up. It’s bittersweet, but we’ll be moving on to greener pastures. And by pastures I mean ramps, roads, and motorcycles. *wink*

Please let me know what you think. And thanks for reading!