The Bears of Grizzly Ridge by Elena Aitken

Entire Series Character Study

So earlier this month I picked up wonderful (and free) ebook boxed set called Oh Canada. I've just started scratching the surface of this HUGE work by a variety of Canadia authors. First up in the set was His to Protect by Elena Aitken. Man oh man am I glad I found this book. I quickly (like really quickly) finished His to Protect and then moved onto books 2 and 3 of this paranormal series. I read all three books over the course of a long weekend! The Bears of Grizzly Ridge series is amazingly cute, quirky and satisfying. It never ceases to amaze me that I find just the right book at the right time! These paranormal gems found me right when I needed a bit of laughter in my life. I needed to believe in true love too, and these books just hit all the right marks.

In honor of the three books I've put together a character study playlist that has one song for each of our three heroines and one song for each of our three heroes. I can't recommend these books enough for paranormal fans who like books a bit on the lighter side. I just can't do gloom and doom all the time and although these books have great conflict, they are primarily super fun reads.

Cover Reveal: Wolf Betrayed (Talon Pack #4) by Carrie Ann Ryan

Release: October 11th, 2016
Type: Paranormal Romance
Series: Talon Pack #4

The Talon Pack continues with the daughter of a traitor, the man who can never be her lover, and another man she should never want…her enemy.

Charlotte Jamenson was born to the Pack that threatened the world, but grew up in the one that saved it. She’s spent her entire life repenting for lies and faults that were never hers to bear. When she falls for her best friend, Bram Devlin, she thinks she’s finally found forgiveness for the blood in her veins; only a mating bond never came.

Bram knows there’s something missing within his mating with Charlotte, but there’s nothing he can do about it. Their Pack is in danger, and it’s his duty to protect their Alpha—even if it means sacrificing his life. When he’s put in charge of protecting a new member of the Talon Pack, he realizes he and Charlotte may just have a chance at something more than heartache.

Shane Bruins sacrificed his life and his future to protect the Packs from the men he worked for. Now, thanks to circumstances beyond his control, he’s not quite who he was before, and his life is on the line yet again. Only this time, he isn’t alone, and the two wolves in his path might be the only things that can calm the beast inside.

The war isn’t coming, it’s here, and the Talon Pack will have to rely on three souls who know they aren’t what each other wants—but exactly what they need—to win.

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Cover Reveal

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About Carrie Ann Ryan

Carrie Ann Ryan is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of contemporary and paranormal romance. Her works include the Montgomery Ink, Redwood Pack, Talon Pack, and Gallagher Brothers series, which have sold over 2.0 million books worldwide. She started writing while in graduate school for her advanced degree in chemistry and hasn’t stopped since. Carrie Ann has written over fifty novels and novellas with more in the works. When she’s not writing about bearded tattooed men or alpha wolves that need to find their mates, she’s reading as much as she can and exploring the world of baking and gourmet cooking.

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To Have and to Hold (Wedding Belles #1) by Lauren Layne

To Have and to Hold by Lauren Layne

Release: July 26th, 2016
Romance Subgenre: Contemporary Romance
Series: Wedding Belles #1

USA TODAY bestselling author Lauren Layne is the “queen of witty dialogue and sexy scenes” (Rachel Van Dyken)! Now, Sex and the City meets The Wedding Planner in The Wedding Belles, her sizzling brand new contemporary romance series about three ambitious wedding planners who can make any bride’s dream come true…but their own.

Discovering her fiancé is an international con man just moments before they exchange vows devastates celebrity wedding planner Brooke Baldwin’s business—and breaks her heart. Now a pariah in Los Angeles, she seeks a fresh start in New York City and thinks she’s found it with her first bridal client, a sweet—if slightly spoiled—hotel heiress. Then she meets the uptight businessman who’s holding the purse strings.

Seth Tyler wishes he could write a blank check and be done with his sister Maya's fancy-pants wedding. Unfortunately, micromanaging the event is his only chance at proving Maya’s fiancé is a liar. Standing directly in his way is the stunning blonde wedding planner whose practiced smiles and sassy comebacks both irritate and arouse him. He needs Brooke’s help. But can he persuade a wedding planner on a comeback mission to unplan a wedding? And more importantly, how will he convince her that the wedding she should be planning…is theirs?

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Character Study

The synopsis for this book mentions Sex and the City and The Wedding Planner, but I have to admit, my mind immediately jumps to Nora Roberts' Bride Quartet when I think of wedding planners and romance. It's HARD for me to think about any other wedding planner series because, let's face it, the Bride Quartet is some sort of crazy amazing magic packaged in four paperbacks. Good thing the Wedding Belles series is almost completely different from the Quartet except in the profession of our ladies (and even that's different since the Belles are all wedding planners).

When I picked up To Have and to Hold I wasn't sure what to expect. I even put off reading the book because I imagined this book being pretty lackluster...the joke was so on me. This books is CRAZY good. It's funny, and emotional, and just generally delightful. Best of all, Brooke and Seth are endearing to no end. Seth, in particular, wormed his way into my heart and burrowed deep inside. I bet we all know a Seth: the big brother type who holds a bit too tight and is a control freak as a result...you know him, right?

When I set out to make a playlist for To Have and to Hold the first song that jumped out at my is one that I've been saving for quite some time. I knew I'd eventually find a playlist home for "Gravity" and I'm happy it's perfect for such an amazing story. The rest of the playlist is sort of a mix of things. I could have easily created a curated soundtrack of wedding favorites or even a character study playlist of crooner classics for these two since their story is total old-school glam, but instead I decided to put together a mix of things. Just like Seth and Brooke come from different parts of the company and different walks of life, I decided to unite their personal journeys and feelings in one little playlist. Enjoy!







“Gravity” by Javier Colon
Baby I'm down on my knees
Hating every breath I breathe
I'd knew I'd let you down eventually
It's gravity, gravity

“City Shoes” by Victoria Canal
These city shoes
Make me remember all the things we've been through
And I wrote a song
But how can I sing it now that you're gone

I tried so hard to rescue you
No one noticed I need rescuing too









“You and I” by Michael Bublé
In my mind
We can conquer the world
In love you and I
You and I, you and I
You and I...











“Oasis” by A Great Big World
As I roam through the wasteland
You're the one thing I need
I see you off in the distance
You're my oasis












“It Had To Be You” by Ray Charles
For nobody else gave me a thrill
With all your faults
I love you still
It had to be you
marvellous you
It had to be you

What did you think of To Have and to Hold?
Are there any songs that remind you of Brooke, Seth and their HEA?

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About Lauren Layne

Lauren lives in New York City with her husband (who was her high school sweetheart--cute, right?!) and plus-sized Pomeranian.

Five years ago, she ditched her corporate career in Seattle to pursue a full-time writing career in Manhattan.

She writes smart romantic comedies with just enough sexy-times to make your mother blush, and in her ideal world, every stiletto-wearing, Kate Spade wielding woman would carry a Kindle stocked with Lauren Layne books.

When not bringing The Sexy, she likes to blog about her Instagram addiction, and why mean girls are the worst.

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When a Lioness Snarls (A Lion's Pride Series #5) by Eve Langlais

When a Lioness Snarls by Eve Langlais
Release: July 21st, 2016
Type: Paranormal Romance
Series: A Lion's Pride Series #5

Stalking is only a crime among humans. In a lioness’s world, it’s called dating.

Jeoff, is a bit of a killjoy, a super cute one who gets furry on full moons.

But so does she.

Luna is everything Jeoff is not. Outrageous, outgoing, and violent. Very violent, and unafraid to go after what she wants—and she wants Jeoff.

Silly man, he thinks he can resist, but once a lioness sets her sights on a man, paws off! And if anyone thinks to try and take him… There’s a reason why the ladies of the pride win the yearly award for Baddest Biatches.

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Excerpt

“Would there be any point in asking why exactly we’re both going to be naked in the woods?”

“Because we’re going to check the tigers’ place out in suburbia.”

“I thought you said it was empty.”

“It is, but given the scene is still rather fresh, I want you to check it out, you know, put that nose of yours to use.”

“I don’t have to be naked for that.”

“Well then, your wolf is going to look mighty funny when you’re running through the woods in your tightie-whities.”

He finished slapping his sandwich together. “You know, it’s times like these that I remember why I hate dealing with lions.”

“And yet you stay inside the city and continue working for us.”

“Apparently, I’m a masochist.” He took a bite of his sandwich and groaned.

Hell, she wanted to groan too. The thing was a work of art. A towering beauty set on a crusty Panini bun. She’d watch him build it as they talked, making it look so easy—and delicious. Slathered with butter then lightly toasted on a hot press, the bread crisping as he sliced thin pieces of roast beef, which he then layered on the sandwich with cold bacon slices and dribbles of beef drippings. He also added some cheese on top before placing it back in the hot press. When the cheese bubbled, he slapped it onto a plate, dabbed some fragrant basil mayonnaise on top of the stack, two slices of tomato, some lettuce, and, voilà, a sandwich fit to steal.

Which she did, and immediately took a bite. “Mmm. That is damned good.”

She’d lost count of how many sighs he’d uttered, but he upped the count considerably as he slapped together, in between hot glares, a second sandwich.

When it was finished, he stayed well out of reach. He was safe. The one she’d stolen had hit the spot.

She hopped onto the counter, almost wincing as her bare ass hit the cold granite. “Now that our bellies are full, ready to go on an adventure?”

“I don’t suppose there’s a second option?”

“Don’t be a princess. This will be fun. Unless you really are teeny-weeny, then it might be a little embarrassing for both of us.”

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About Eve Langlais

~ New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author

Hello, my name is Eve and I am a Canadian author who loves to write hot romance, usually with hot shifters, cyborgs or aliens. I should warn you that I possess a twisted imagination and a sarcastic sense of humor something I like to let loose in my writing.

I love to write, and while I don't always know what my mind is going to come up with next, I can promise it will be fun, probably humorous and most of all romantic, because I love a happily ever after.

Thanks so much for coming by and checking me out. If you'd like to know more, read some excerpts or find out what's coming next, then please visit me at http://www.EveLanglais.com

Or sign up for my new release email list at http://www.evelanglais.com/newrelease

Happy reading!
Eve Langlais

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Fool for You (Crush on You #1) by Rina Gray

Fool for You by Rina Gray

Release: July 18, 2016
Romance Subgenre: Contemporary Romance
Series: Crush on You #1

Sports journalist Melanie Foster has achieved most of her goals: Bomb.com job—check. Tomboy-to- smoking-hottie makeover—check. Convince her best friend, Damien Richards, to slide a ring on her finger and father her two-point- five kids—not so much. When she activates Operation: I’m Gonna Make You Love Me, she never imagines her BFF already has plans to stroll down the wedding aisle with another woman.

Damien is in the middle of crisis mode. The non-profit for young athletes at which he volunteers is in financial trouble. He’ll pull out all the stops to rescue the organization that saved his life after his career-ending injury—even if it means sacrificing his personal happiness.

But when he finally wakes up to love and the very non-friendly feelings he’s long held for Mel, it might just be too late. Damien must convince her that he’s worth the risk and turn the tables to show her he’s the one ready to be a fool for love.

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Author Guest Post and Playlist

I'm excited to have author Rina Gray on the blog today to discuss her debut novel, Fool for You. Thanks for sharing, Rina!

Music is a huge part of my inspiration and writing process. The only time I don’t listen to music is when I’m in the last stages of edits. Each book in the Crush on You series has a soundtrack. I created the soundtrack prior to drafting the book, but of course, as time goes by, I will find a few songs that are perfect for a character or scene I have rolling around in my head. For those moments, I use my Shazam app to make sure I make note of the song, and then add it to the Spotify playlist.

For my debut novel, Fool for You, I wanted to create a vibe of childhood crush, friends-to-lovers, the 90s and an unrequited love that spanned over a decade. The soundtrack has over 150 songs so I can’t list them all, but here are my top 5 songs.

1. “Rush, Rush” Paul Abdul – This song is so perfectly 90’s and it’s just a big ole ball of visceral responses for someone you are falling for.

2. “Linger” Cranberries - I love the emotional angst of this song. She feels like a fool for the person she loves, but she’s in too deep to stop herself.

3. “Damn Good Friends” Elle Varner – This song is the true theme of the story. The heroine knows they could be great together, but the hero is hesitant because they are such good friends.

4. “Boys & Girls” Alabama Shakes – I think this song is perfect for the hero Damien who struggled with his feelings and maintaining friendship with the heroine.

5. “I’m Gonna Make You Love Me” Diana Ross & The Supremes & The Temptations – In the story, the heroine activates “Operation: I’m Gonna Make You Love Me” to convince her best friend that she is the woman for him.

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About Rina Gray

Rina Gray is one of the newest African American romance writers on the rise. She is also a digital marketing professional who discovered her love of writing in 2012. Writing has always been Rina’s passion, though initially, she tried to deny it. In college she served as the copy editor for the entertainment magazine and newspaper. During her tenure, she had the opportunity to interview various talented entertainers including Chris Rock and the cast from Reno-911.

Rina has always been an avid reader, sneaking to read her mother’s books she had no business reading i.e. Stephen King’s The Stand, It, and Anne Rice’s various vampire series. As a pre-teen, she received a load of romance novels from a family friend and from that point on, she devoured any book related to romance or horror. When she’s not writing, she can be found with her head stuck in a book, kickboxing, or dominating game night with friends and family. Rina resides in Atlanta with her husband.

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Rediscovering Raine (A Caught Up In RAINE Novelette) by LG O'Connor

Rediscovering Raine by LG O'Connor

Release: May 23rd, 2016
Romance Subgenre: Contemporary Romance
Series: Caught Up In Love #1.1

Two Hearts. One Magical Night. The love story continues... Experience a magical night with Jillian and Raine picking up where the story ends in the first of two follow-up novelettes to Caught Up In RAINE.

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Curated Soundtrack

Who has read Caught Up In Raine? I reviewed this book in April (review here) and I haven't been able to stop thinking about it since. The ending of the book was entirely satisfying, but I've often thought there had to be more to Raine and Jilian's story. Particularly, there had to be more to their reunion! Well folks, there is! LG O'Connor will be delighting readers again with two novelettes about Raine and Jillian. The first novelette, Rediscovering Raine, came out in May and I devoured it. Actually, I've devoured it a few times since I purchasing (only 99 cents y'all)!

So, I decided to create a short playlist based on this little novelette. The playlist is really curated soundtrack for their evening together after reuniting. Sometimes restaurants have super cheesy music playing that seems to make no sense with the setting or the food. In my opinion the music at a nice restaurant should just fade into the background to make it easier to focus on the conversation, food and your partner. As such, I put together a small selection of jazz favorites with romantic song titles that could have been playing as Raine and Jillian reconnected. I adored every second of Raine and Jillian's dinner together and I hope you enjoy a little mood music as you revisit some of my favorite characters.

What did you think of Rediscovering Raine?
Do any songs remind you of Raine, Jillian and their HEA?

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About LG O'Connor

L.G. O’Connor is a member of the Romance Writers of America. A corporate strategy and marketing executive for a Fortune 250 company, she writes adult paranormal and contemporary romance. She is the author of the four-book, one-novella urban fantasy / paranormal romance series The Angelorum Twelve Chronicles. The third full length novel launches in 2016. In addition, she is the author of the upcoming Romantic Women’s Fiction / New Adult Caught Up in Love series. L.G. lives a life of adventure, navigating her way through dog toys and soccer balls. When she’s feeling particularly brave, she enters the kitchen . . .

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Mr. and Mr. Smith (Tough Love #1) by HelenKay Dimon

Mr. and Mr. Smith by HelenKay Dimon

Release: May 24th, 2016
Romance Subgenre: Romantic Suspense
Series: Tough Love #1

Secrets and seduction make for an explosive combination in HelenKay Dimon’s edgy, thrilling new series, which kicks off with a novel about two men who can handle any threat—except the one posed by desire.

Fisher Braun knows how to keep a secret. As a covert paramilitary operative, his job—and his life—depends on it. He’s at the top of his game, ready for action and always in control. No enemy has ever brought him to his knees, but one lover has: Zachary Allen, the man currently sharing his bed. The perfect package of brains and brawn, Zach is someone worth coming home to, and Fisher hates keeping him in the dark about what he does. But the lies keep Zach safe. Until the day Fisher loses everything. . .

Zachary Allen is no innocent civilian. Although he plays the tech geek, in reality he’s deep undercover for the CIA. In a horrible twist of fate, the criminal enterprise he’s infiltrated has set its sights on the man whose touch drives him wild. Zach would do anything for Fisher—except blow his own cover. Now, in order to save him, Zach must betray him first. And he needs Fisher to trust him with all his heart if they want to make it out alive.

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Character Study

So Mr. and Mr. Smith was my first HelenKay Dimon book. Of course, I adored it. There was action, a really sexy romance and a lot (like a lot) of suspense. Naturally I’m hooked on Dimon and am pumped that the next installment of the series is out in a little over two month’s time. Anyone else getting excited to read Hunter and Will’s story?

In thinking about a playlist for Mr. and Mr. Smith I tried to really focus on the emotions of Zach and Fischer. Their story was so tangled and convoluted (and wonderful) that I had trouble finding songs to represent the plot of this book.The feelings of these gentlemen were so apparent though. I guess the emotions contained in this book were just ringing loud and clear for me. Enjoy the playlist!







“Hands to Myself, Love Yourself, Perfect” (Acoustic Mashup) by Kaya May ft. Landon Austin
Can't keep my hands to myself
No matter how hard I'm trying to
I want you all to myself
You're metaphorical gin and juice

“Force of Nature” by Bea Miller
I don't know why but my hands are shaking
I can see you coming and I stand here waiting
Yeah I get tongue tied in the conversation
It's an F'd up, bad, sick situation












“Let It Go” by James Bay
Trying to fit your hand inside of mine
When we know it just don't belong
There's no force on earth
Could make me feel right, no












“Lean On” by Lennon & Maisey
Blow a kiss,
fire a gun,
all we need is somebody to lean on

What did you think of Mr. and Mr. Smith?
Are there any songs that remind you of Zach, Fischer and their HEA?