Frostbitten by Heather Beck

Posted in Books I love, Review Post by mkcooke

Frostbitten

By: Heather Beck

Genre: Young Adult Paranormal Romance

Great beauty hides dark secrets…

Seventeen-year-old Anastasia Lockhart has never led an easy life, but when she starts getting into serious trouble, she’s sent to live with her grandparents in Cedar Falls. The small, picturesque town hasn’t changed since she visited four years ago, with one exception – the presence of a handsome, mysterious boy named Frost. Despite warnings from her grandparents and friends to stay away from Frost, Anastasia can’t deny their attraction, and the more time they spend together, the deeper in love they fall. Unfortunately, Frost has a secret that is beyond Anastasia’s wildest imagination, and she soon finds herself in the midst of a supernatural legend that has haunted Cedar Falls for years.

Can Anastasia and Frost’s love really overcome anything, or are their fates much darker?

4 1/2 Wonderful Stars

I must admit that while I do definitely enjoy reading young adult books, I am sometimes hesitant to read paranormal books within the genre. It’s not that I haven’t read these types of books, or that I haven’t immensely enjoyed these books, it’s just that I naturally don’t lean towards them.

After reading Frostbitten by Heather Beck, I’m thinking I should change that inclination.

Frostbitten is a paranormal young adult novel that focuses in on Anastasia Lockhart as she goes to live with her grandparents in the quaint little town of Cedar Falls. But soon Anastasia finds that not everything is as quaint as it appears in this sleepy little town. There are some dark mysteries running rampant through this town, and Anastasia soon finds herself immersed in them.

Wonderfully balanced with the mystery surrounding the town of Cedar Falls is the development of Anastasia’s relationship with a mysterious boy named Frost. These two have an instant bond and connection, and their bonds only grow throughout this story. Frostbitten follows Anastasia as she begins to fall into all of her feelings for Frost, while trying to discover the answers to the many questions surrounding the supernatural events taking place in Cedar Falls.

What I absolutely adored about this book:

The writing. Heather Beck does a phenomenal job of crafting a story that just flows from the page. Her writing is beautiful, and the level of description you read in this book will have you picturing every single glorious detail in your head.
The mythology. The mythology that comes into this story in such a remarkable way that is very easy to understand, and it blends wonderfully with every other aspect of the book. It also adds a seriously engaging and exciting factor to this book that sets the story itself apart from other YA books.
Frost. Frost is kind of an enigma that you continue to try to figure out throughout. While reading you slowly chip away at his hard exterior find out who he truly is. His character was just magnificent to read, and with each new piece of the puzzle that I discovered about him, I fell more in love with his character. He’s also terribly sweet, which just melted my heart.
Anastasia’s strength. Anastasia is a very strong female character, which I immediately grasped and adored. She is thrown a lot of wrenches in a lot of ways, but through it all she keeps standing up and pushing through. Even when you expect her to give in, she doesn’t. She’s extremely resilient, and that was something that was truly fresh to read.
The excitement. This book is paced very well, and the events make it a true page turner. The events add flames to the fire that is this book, and will keep you engaged from beginning to end. That excitement also just makes it fun to read.
The love story. The love story of Frost and Anastasia is fantastic, and it has a serious build over the book. It feels very natural from beginning to end, and flows very well over the page. It also balanced extremely well with the other events taking place in the book. You could focus in on it, but also enjoy all the other aspects of the book that in turn affected their love story. It just worked.
The young adultness. I loved that this was a YA book. I love YA books. The young characters created in this book are all extremely authentic in the emotions and feelings they have. Even the actions they take are wholly real. Heather Beck does a wonderful job of capturing these characters and making them come alive on the page.
The level of suspense. The level of suspense just builds and builds in this book. I was constantly wondering where in the world the story would go, and what would happen next, which made this book all the more engaging. That suspense builds in so many ways that you will have to know how this all works out. (It also does a fabulous job of setting up future stories….)
The different relationships. I loved getting to read the different and complicated relationships in this book. You have Frost and Anastasia, Anastasia and her grandparents, and even Anastasia and her classmates. These dynamic relationships add more to this story, and add an easily relatable factor to what you’re reading.

Frostbitten was a truly fantastic book to read. It had so many aspects that I truly enjoy and thrive on when I read. It was engaging as hell. It had well and thoughtfully developed characters with some spunk. It had a storyline that was fresh to read, and that just continued to get better as I read. It also had that something extra that just made it a truly enjoyable book.

While I may not be the most well versed in books with paranormal and supernatural elements, I have to say that I think this one hit it out the park in that respect.

So I hope you’ll all take a minute to check out the book and its author. Give it chance, just like I did. I think you’ll be extremely happy you did. I know I am.

Take that leap of faith in reading. You’d do well to remember that.

Heather Beck is a Canadian Author and Screenwriter who began writing professionally at the age of sixteen. Since then she has written eleven well-reviewed books, including the bestselling series, The Horror Diaries, which has sold in six continents.

Heather received an Honors Bachelor of Arts degree from university where she specialized in English and studied an array of disciplines. Currently, she is working on the Frostbitten series and has two anthologies slated for publication. As a screenwriter, Heather has multiple television shows and movies in development. Her short films include: Young Eyes, The Rarity, Too Sensible For Love, Circular, and the forthcoming Witch’s Brew.

Besides writing, Heather’s greatest passion is the outdoors. She is an award-winning fisherwoman and a regular hiker. Her hobbies include swimming, playing badminton and volunteering with non-profit organizations.

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Frostbitten truly was a wonderful book, and I am so glad I had the chance to read it. The writing is beautiful and the story is great, so be sure to check out this book and Heather Beck today!

14Aug2014

Among the Echoes

Posted in Books I love, Releasing Now Book Addicts, Review Post by mkcooke

Among the Echoes

By: Aly Martinez

Genre: Erotic Suspense

My name was Dr. Erica Hill. I was a victim, then a witness, and then I ceased to exist altogether.

I may still be breathing, but stripped of my identity, I have long since stopped living. I am invisible, and my life depends on my ability to stay in the shadows.

But he sees me.

Slate Andrews is the embodiment of everything I have been taught to avoid. He’s rich and famous, and one image of him with a woman would earn millions for any paparazzi lucky enough to snap it. He has vowed to protect me with his life, yet he exposes me with his every breath. I should be stronger and walk away. I should disappear. But I’m terrified he would come after me.

I’m on the run, determined not to take him down with me but absolutely unable to let him go.

My name is Riley Peterson…at least for today.

*Among The Echoes is a stand alone novel which contains material that may be offensive to some readers. Including sexual abuse, graphic language, and adult situations. Intended for readers 18+.*

5 Seriously Deserved Stars

Among the Echoes was the first book I’ve read by Aly Martinez, but it will certainly not be the last. This book was phenomenal in every way. The writing was beautiful, the characters were thoughtfully developed and brought to the page in a way that made me love them whole heartedly, and the story kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time.

I will preface the rest of my review by letting you know that this book opens up with a pretty brutal and dark scene involving the main character Erica. As dark and rough as that scene is, it sets the tones for the book, and makes you immediately care for and connect with Erica. It serves a purpose, and I wouldn’t have this book any other way than how it was.

Everything about this book was just spot on from the first page to very last.

What I f-ing loved about Among the Echoes:

Erica’s Pain. While reading you will feel Erica’s pain to the core because of how magnificently it’s conveyed. It is painful as hell to read at times and sometimes it just hurt my heart for Erica, but it makes you understand her so much more. It also helps you understand every little and major thing she is feeling from her pain, to vulnerability, to her anxiety and erraticness at times. All of that is remarkably written, and it’ll make you feel for Erica from the get go.
Slate Saves the Day. I absolutely loved how Slate was there for Erica in every way from the very beginning, even before either of them started having feelings for the other. Slate was just a good guy, through and through. Slate sees something in Erica, and knows that he can help her. He promises to do just that, and he never once wavers on that promise. Ever. He’s protective, charming as hell, and just the right amount of “sweet as can be” and “give it to me harder” all wrapped into one deliciously ripped package. (Can you tell I heart me some Slate?)
Leo & Erica’s Friendship. Their friendship was one of a kind, and built upon some not so shiny events, but it was magnificently developed, and it made me love each of them more because of their friendship. It was rough at times because they had both been through so much together, but through all that hardship they were there for each other always. There each other’s rocks, and that just works.
The Theme of Overcoming it All. This book is filled with a lot of darkness and pain at times because of the story being so breathtakingly told, but at the end of the day it’s all about overcoming all of that. It’s about coming back and overcoming the negative things that happen in life. This book exemplifies that all that pain and darkness is surmountable, and it doesn’t have to define you if you don’t let it. (Makes me think of a certain quote: “Happiness can be found even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light.”
The Action & Suspense. The action kept this book extremely well paced and had me dying to know what would happen. I needed to know if Erica would be safe, or if she would be found. I HAD to know what would happen with her and Slate. I had to know it all. The level of suspense and action kept it all going, and through it all I never knew how it was all going to turn out. That made the guessing game throughout that more enthralling and exciting to read and experience.
Opening Up. The way that Erica and Slate open up to one another is magnificent. It takes a lot for both of them to open up because of their past circumstances. At the end of the day though, they’re both trying to protect themselves from each other and when they finally break down those walls and open up to one another, it’s a truly transformative. That opening up also exemplifies the depth of feeling these two have for one another. It’s a real moment of healing that was just beautiful to read.
The Real Erica. This book is all about seeing. Part of that seeing is seeing the ‘real’ Erica, and when that real Erica comes across on the page, it’s truly fantastic to read. Aly Martinez does an outstanding job of showing the broken Erica while giving glimpses to the Erica she used to be. Throughout the story more and more the real Erica comes to the page, and she is just a force to be reckoned with when she’s there.
The Crime. I am a huge sucker for crime shows, and I loved how Among the Echoes brought in the crime and drama. The hidden identities, witness protection, suspense, high octane action, and all the people after one another engaged me fully in the book. It also added another fabulous layer to the already incredible story being told.
The Fight. I love a story that gives me a good fight for that happy. And boy did Among the Echoes deliver on that. Slate and Erica are fighting for their lives, literally, to find that happy that they both deserve. That fight defines and exemplifies their characters, and ultimately makes this book out of this world wonderful.

Among the Echoes was just an all-around fantastic book. It has everything that makes a book stand out: magnificently developed characters, tons of spice, a whole lot of feeling and emotion, seriously wonderful writing, and a story that just won’t quit.

This book has it all, and I couldn’t recommend it to you more. It really will blow you away, and after reading it you’ll surely be an Aly Martinez fan for life.

Trust me, I’m there.

Born and raised in Savannah, Georgia, Aly Martinez is a stay-at-home mom to four crazy kids under the age of five, including a set of twins. Currently living in Chicago, she passes what little free time she has reading anything and everything she can get her hands on, preferably with a glass of wine at her side.

After some encouragement from her friends, Aly decided to add “Author” to her ever-growing list of job titles. So grab a glass of Chardonnay, or a bottle if you’re hanging out with Aly, and join her aboard the crazy train she calls life.

Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Amazon Author Page

Don’t forget to check out Aly’s Wrecked and Ruined series

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I seriously cannot recommend this book to you all enough. It just hit it out of the park with the level of action & suspense, passion & love, pain & vulnerability, and the overall level of emotion. So do yourself a favor and check out this gem of a book today. You won’t be sorry.

11Aug2014

Releasing Now: Incandescent

Posted in Books I love, Releasing Now Book Addicts, Review Post by mkcooke

Incandescent Knights

Rebels MC #1

By: River Savage

Release Date:August 11,2014

Phoenix ‘Nix’ Knight thought
pulling his club out of the illegal shit his Pops got them into was
difficult.

Until he meets Kadence.

Kadence Turner has no business
lusting over a student’s father, especially the president of the Knights Rebels
MC. Nix is crass, obnoxious and dangerously sexy and for some reason, Kadence
can’t seem to hate him for it. The bossy biker breaks down her defenses, but
unlike the old Kadence, the woman she is today won’t give in without a
fight.

The tension is undeniable, the attraction fierce. A man that wants what he wants
and a woman that will fight him every step of the way.

ADD TO GOODREADS

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5 Amazingly Hot Stars

Let me start off by saying that this book just hit it out of the damn park for me. It had everything I absolutely thrive on when reading: the characters were out of this world dynamic and had personality out the yin yang, the story was extremely well paced and hooked me in from the first word until the very last, and the overall book reminded me of what truly phenomenal books are made of.

Incandescent was an out of this world book that I wish I could give more than 5 stars too. It had it all, and you can bet your butt that I’m a River Savage fan for life after reading this book.

What was off the charts about Incandescent:

Nix. Nix is so many things, and I couldn’t love his character more if I wanted to. He is crass and possessive and he has the dirtiest mouth I’ve ever read on a character, but all of that just made me fall in love with him more. He also had so many layers. There was the MC President layer, then the layer of the caring and devoted father, and then the layer you see with Kaydence. All that layering just made him an utterly magnificent character. Did I also mention he has one hell of a mouth on him?
Kaydence has sass. Kaydence is a sassy and snarky character, and I adored her to pieces. She has been to hell and back before this story even begins, and she goes through just as much through the events of this book. Through it all though she’s still there facing it with her smart and sassy mouth. She has some pretty low moments, and I felt her pain and anguish often while reading, but when those high moments came for her, boy were they spectacular to read. She’s a fighter, and that was pretty darn refreshing to read.
The relationship between Nix and Kaydence. What can I say about their relationship to do it justice? These two characters have a chemistry that pole vaults off the page. It’s filled with heat, passion, desire, and plenty of dirty talking fun. It’s scorching hot, and just exudes the shear depth of what these two feel for one another. It also has a natural and freaking exciting build to it, and their relationship is one you’ll be fighting for as you read. I guarantee it.
The MC factor. This is only my 2^nd MC book, and this one made me want a hell of a lot more MC books. I loved getting to see the inner workings of The Knights Rebels MC, and seeing how all of the characters in the club meshed with the rest of the story. It was also seriously hot and engaging to read a bunch of guys riding around on motorcycles, cussing up a storm, and fighting for their club and relationships. The grit, the action, and the delicious tension with the MC factor makes the story that more enthralling.
Down with the dirty. I think I’ve mentioned it about 5 times already by now, but the dirty, crass, and raw talking going on in this book was seriously heated, and will send you looking for fan ASAP. It’s sizzling, and it’ll have you relishing every time you get to read that dirty talk on the page.
The gangs all here. The supporting characters were outstanding, and just added to the magnificence of this book. They are all fully developed with interesting personalities to say the least, and each one is highly memorable. Each of them adds their own little flavor, and they fit in seamlessly with Kaydence and Nix’s story. Sy, Holly, Z, Beau, Brooks, Jesse, and all the other characters just make this book more extraordinary, and I can’t wait to read more of them.
The fast paced events. The events of this book will keep you on the edge of your seat the entire time you’re reading. They fit in authentically with what is happening in the story, and the story just continues to build and build until the very end. This book also balances the drama, excitement, passion, and love aspects tremendously well with the events taking place.
The vulnerable and emotional moments. There are multiple truly emotional moments of vulnerability, pain, and love in this book. Some moments are so beautifully captured that they will leave your heart hurting with the pain and anguish the characters are experiencing, while others will put your heart back together with the level of healing that takes place in those instances of vulnerability. This book is chalk full of these moments of vulnerability, and they really will take make you feel so many things that you’re just going to love experiencing.
The end. I clearly ain’t going to tell you how it all ends, but just know the ending was spectacular. It made sense, and it left me ready and waiting for the next installment to this series.

Incandescent was an utterly phenomenal book that I seriously enjoyed from beginning to end. This book had it all and more. It was highly engaging, and it is a book I won’t soon be forgetting. From the spectacularly fitting names of the characters, to the OMFG moments that’ll speed your heart rate up, to the moments of pure love and heat you’ll want to bask in, this book will be an unbelievable reading experience for you. Just be prepared for one helluva book hangover from this one.

I also cannot wait to read more from this series and author. (And I’m hoping that next book comes out sooner rather than later! Fingers Crossed!)

Resting the cold beer between my legs to soothe the ache, the boys give me shit for striking out. I feel the same way: the woman is a tough nut to crack.

“You ready for round two, Prez?” Beau smirks behind his beer. Turning my head, I watch as Kadence storms over. I groan as my broken dick comes to life, apparently not caught up with the news that she doesn’t like him. She stands at the end of the table, arms crossed over her chest, unaware that her position puts her sexy tits up on display.

Fuck, this woman is a tease.

“Hey, sweetheart,” I say before taking a sip of my beer.

“Don’t sweetheart me. What did you say to my date?” she snaps, anger clear on her face, and I’ve never seen a more beautiful look on her. Her eyes blaze with fire and the need to push her more fills me. I can’t wait to have her under me.

“Oh, the stiff?” I ask nonchalantly. “Just told him to run along; he didn’t have what it takes to play with the big boys,” I say as some of the brothers laugh into their drinks.

I’ve never pushed a woman this far before; chasing her and teasing her feels so damn good. Something about her pushes my buttons and leaves me wanting more. Most women fall at my feet begging to get in, but Kadence? No, this woman makes me want to do the begging. I’ve never wanted to fuck a woman so hard while spanking her ass at the same time. The way she reacts to me makes my dick hard and God help me, getting her riled up is a sight to see. I can see it in her eyes; she’s fighting it. She wants me and I intend to give the lady what she wants.

“What do you want, Phoenix?” she demands, uncrossing her arms and assuming a relaxed position, but I’m not stupid. The woman is crazy mad and I’ve got a throbbing dick to prove it.

“What do I want?” I repeat her question, pausing to take another pull on my beer. “Well, after your little stunt in the bathroom, I wanna pull you down on this table and spank your ass,” I tell her calmly. Even though my balls are aching, my cock is pulsing.

“You disgust me,” she hisses and turns to walk away. I grab onto her hand, turning her my way. She tries to pull out of my grasp, but my hold on her is strong.

“You don’t mean that. I’ve seen the way your eyes flash. You would love for me to spank that sexy ass right here for everyone to see. Wouldn’t you?” Embarrassment floods her cheeks, and for a beat, I think I might have pushed her too far.

River Savage is the author of the soon to be released, Knights Rebels MC Series. The first book Incandescent, will be released on August 11,2014.

An avid reader of romance and erotic novels, her love for books and reading fueled her passion for writing. Reading no longer sated her addiction, so she started writing in secret. She never imagined that her dream of publishing a novel would ever be achievable.

With a soft spot for an alpha male and a snarky sassy woman, Kadence and Nix were born.

River would love to hear from you. You can contact her via email at riversavageauthor@gmail.com or follow her via the links below.

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7Aug2014

Releasing Now: Undeniable Attraction

Posted in Books I love, Releasing Now Book Addicts, Review Post by mkcooke

Undeniable Attraction

By: Eliza Brown

Genre: Romantic Suspense/Contemporary Romance

Cash is a sexy, smart, cocky, ruthless, impulsive, and jaded bad boy.

Clair is shy, innocent, responsible and just plain old nice. She’s also in love with Cash….

Clair has worked for Cash at his Private Investigation firm for the last three years. She’s also been in love with him for just as long. She has kept her feelings for him a secret since she knows she’s not his type. But she is sick of being the sweet girl nobody notices. It’s time to be the girl she always wanted to be. She’s ready to put herself out there and try to get his attention. Unfortunately for Clair, she also catches the eye of someone else, and this someone, isn’t going to let her walk away easily.

Cash is forced to put all his experience as an ex-marine and private investigator to use when Clair is put in danger. But while he’s doing that, he starts to see her in a new light. He is determined to fight his new found attraction to her. She’s a good girl, sweet, gentle and kind. Not qualities he’s usually interested in. But things have changed. She’s changed. And now that Clair is in danger he’s finding it harder to keep himself under control.

Can Cash protect her from this new threat? And keep his hands off her, even though there’s no denying the attraction between them?

Just a little tease…

4 1/2 HOT HOT STARS

Undeniable Attraction was a book that hooked me in right from the beginning. Eliza Brown did a fabulous job of creating characters that instantly engaged me, as well as providing a story I couldn’t help but love.

What f-ing loved about this book:

Cash is gritty and tough. Cash is rough and gritty and downright crude at times, but boy does that just work for him. That was his character, and he owned it fully. His character is a little rough around the edges at first because of what he’s going through, but over the course of this book he really opened up, and his true self came through. Reading Cash is kind of like cracking a shell to get down to the really good stuff. It might take a bit to get there, but when you finally do get there, it’s so freaking good.
Clair stands tall against it all. Clair is thrown so many curveballs, and despite each one, she stands up and faces it all with her head held high. I respected that tremendously with her character, and it made me want to just cheer her on. I love heroines who have chutzpah, and Clair is no different. Clair was also just so endearing, and was wholly relatable and believable through every page. Everything she feels you feel, and that’s just magnificent.
The Undeniable Attraction. This book is very aptly titled. There is a true undeniable attraction between Clair and Cash that keeps building and building in this book until that attraction explodes. Almost literally. That build of attraction between these two is very well developed, and fits their relationship to a tee. It also makes this book nice and spicy which is always lovely.
The Action Packed Book. I read this book in one sitting because I could not put it down. It is so action packed with well written drama and so many instances that will have you dying to know what happens next. That action also brings out a lot from these characters. Reading how Cash and Clair handle that together just made me love them together even more, and it totally illuminated the fight they had within them to fix all that was going wrong around them.
Coming out of the shell. Clair seriously comes out of her shell throughout this book. At the beginning, she’s made it a goal to come out of her shell and be the girl she’s always wanted to be. (Told you she had chutzpah!) The way she comes out of her shell was great, and it just made me like Clair more.
Tessa and Clair’s Friendship. I’m a true sucker for female friendship, and Tessa and Clair’s is just fabulous. They’re all each other has, and the interactions between them are very authentic of female friendship. Reading their friendship together will just make you smile. It also helped that Tessa cracked me up half of the time.
Cash’s Protectiveness Over Clair. Cash is severely protective of Clair, and that all just heightens when danger begins to surround her. That protectiveness speaks to Cash’s true character, and the fierceness with which he cares for her. Cash will go to any length to protect Clair, and out of that protectiveness come so much for him. During those moments of protectiveness you see Cash at his very best.
The Vulnerability. Both Clair and Cash have different instances of vulnerability that come to light in their story. Those moments are painful and filled to the brim with emotion, but how Cash and Clair are there for one another in those moments is beautiful.
The Connection Between all of the Characters. The way all of the characters come together adds another fantastic layer to the events in the story. The relationships between Clair, Cash, Kai, and Tessa are developed in such a way that you feel the different connections between all of them. You feel that connection weave its way thoughtfully throughout the book in a way that will make you love all of them.
The Way it all Comes Together. I clearly won’t tell you what happens in the end of this book, but I will tell you it’s one wild ride. It’s full of twist and turns that’s going to send your heart racing at times. It’s got some very low lows, but when you get to those highs, it’s just spectacular. (And it makes those lows worth it in a way.) This book has some serious emotion to it as well, and the way that emotion comes together through all the characters makes this book a truly great read.

Eliza Brown is a simple little housewife from Cairns, Australia, with a wicked good imagination. She is the mother to three crazily cute kids and the wife of a Sexy Arse Tree Lopper. She is also baby sister to a Certified Nutbag, a Linesman and a Fireman.

Eliza spends her days running around after her kids and jotting down stories that come to her at inconvenient moments in her leather, flower embossed notebook. (She is very particular about her stationary.) Or in her iPhone or iPad or whatever she can get her hands on. (Damn kids keep running off with her stationary.)

When the kids are napping nine times out of ten, you will find Eliza sitting at her computer typing as fast as she can, while she can. Generally with her phone wedged between her shoulder and ear bouncing ideas off her sister.

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5Aug2014

Releasing Now: Surrounded

Posted in Books I love, Releasing Now Book Addicts, Review Post by mkcooke

Surrounded

A Novel by SC Ellington

Unsettled Romance Series # 2

Releases August 5th 2014

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We are celebrating this fab new release with some partying!!!! Come join in the fun and make this release a fabulous one for Author SC Ellington!

INVITE YOUR FRIENDS! The more the merrier.

Surrounded Release Party 6th August

Everything was falling into place. Even amongst all the chaos of Washington D.C., Brooklyn and Logan found each other.

Brooklyn never expected Logan…and as it always seems to happen with her…things fell apart. She has been through this before…was she strong enough to do it again?

On the outside, Logan was the epitome of wealth and confidence. Many knew his name but few knew his secrets. He never expected Brooklyn…but now she’s walked away. He knew what they shared mattered to her…and she…she mattered to him more.

🌟🌟4 1/2 FANTASTIC STARS🌟🌟

After reading Unsettled and falling in love with Brooklyn and Logan’s story, I was very eager to read Surrounded and find out how things would work out for them. I was not disappointed one bit by this story, and I loved getting to spend more time with these fabulous characters. Logan and Brooklyn’s story is one that I guarantee you will just love.

What I loved about Surrounded:

The Passion. This book is definitely a passionate one, and I could feel the passion between Logan and Brooklyn throughout the entire book. Even when things weren’t so peachy between them, I could feel that tangible passion between them. They have a true chemistry which was so easy to feel.
The Pushing. Both of these characters push the other one to move on from what they both have in their past, and to see the good in what they have together. That pushing makes them both better, and just shows how far they were both willing to go for one another. That pushing showed a lot about these characters.
Logan’s Got Some Tenacity. I loved Logan’s character, and especially since this book showed his perspective. The tenacity that Logan has to prove his feelings to Brooklyn just made me adore his character even more. He doesn’t give up, and that’s kind of important. He’s also sweet as hell, so that helps.
The Overall Journey of Brooklyn. Brooklyn goes through a lot of changes on her Journey through the events in Unsettled and Surrounded. She overcomes so much, and finds some true strength within her. She’s a strong female lead, and even when she was at her weakest, she had one hell of a backbone.
Dual Perspectives! We all know I heart me a book that gives me multiple perspectives, and this one was no different. Surrounded allows you to see both Logan and Brooklyn’s POV’s, and it illuminates so much about each of them. I also loved that the beginning of this book shows you more from Logan’s perspective on events from the past.
The Other Relationships. I adored the secondary characters in this book, and the other relationships that were highlighted in Surrounded. Brooklyn’s friendship with Alex was wonderful to read and it stood out in such a perfect way. Reading Logan’s complicate relationship with his family was also very intriguing, and added another great layer to this book.
It’s All in the Pace. The pacing of this book worked really well with the events that happen in Surrounded. This books picks up right where things left of in Unsettled, and I for one was dying to know what would happen. The pacing makes it easy to hook right into this book.
The Theme of Being Surrounded. The title of this book is Surrounded, and boy does that fit. The theme of being surrounded and being open to the feelings around you is beautifully weaved through this book. Logan and Brooklyn are surrounded by their feelings for one another, and that comes across in such a magnificent way.
Brooklyn Finds Herself. One of my favorite things about this book was reading how Brooklyn discovers who she truly wants to be. Her “finding herself” was so authentically written, and I adored getting to read how she was finally able to find what she wanted in all aspects of her life.

Overall, I really enjoyed reading both Unsettled and Surrounded. SC Ellington does a great job of creating characters that come to life off of the page, while creating a story that will engage you from beginning to end. Both of these books were fantastic, and I cannot wait to see what this author writes next because whatever it is, I know it’ll be wonderful!

S.C. Ellington is an up and coming author who enjoys expressing her creativity through frequently writing adult, contemporary romance novels that readers can relate to, but more importantly, enjoy.

Aside from writing, Ellington enjoys curling up with her e-reader and absorbing herself in novels loaded with emotion, desire, and passion. She also likes to spend sunny, wistful afternoons, in her hammock thinking up new ideas for great stories. Her debut novel, Unsettled was generated while consuming her favourite snacks – hot chocolate and popcorn

Ellington currently resides on the west coast with her beautiful Keurig, family and loving friends.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/SC-Ellington

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ScEllington

Goodreads Author: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7265096.S_C_Ellington

Facebook Release Party – 6^th August: https://www.facebook.com/events/1505377223028558/?context=create&source=49

Facebook Discussion Group:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/561348873975328/

Unsettled (Book #1) is on SALE!

After a horrific breakup with her long-time boyfriend, Brooklyn Caldwell is completely disenchanted with the notion of mingling with the opposite sex. Damon Williams had been everything she thought she wanted…until he wasn’t.

In an attempt to escape her heartbreaking past, Brooklyn seeks refuge in bustling Washington DC where she folds into the fast paced society unnoticed…until she meets a young entrepreneur, Logan Colton.

Brooklyn is surprised to find that while she has been successful in keeping the opposite sex at bay, somehow she is defenceless against Logan’s confidence and charm—and it doesn’t hurt that he is absurdly beautiful. While thrilled with Logan’s candour, Brooklyn hesitates, as she can’t seem to move past the heartache that she suffered at the hands of Damon.

As much as Logan didn’t plan on pursuing her, he is drawn to Brooklyn’s muted beauty and her witty persona. For all his success, Logan is ensnared in the coveted world of unequivocal wealth and power, but behind closed doors is taunted by demons and an undeniable need to atone for a monumental mistake.

As the two embark on a tumultuous obstacle course saturated with unknown twists and turns, Brooklyn is left to question whether she can endure the journey ahead.

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4Aug2014

Releasing Now: Among the Echoes

Posted in Books I love, Releasing Now Book Addicts by mkcooke

Title: Among the Echoes

Author: Aly Martinez

Publication Date: July 31, 2014

Genre: Erotic Suspense

My name was Dr. Erica Hill. I was a victim, then a witness, and then I ceased to exist altogether.

I may still be breathing, but stripped of my identity, I have long since stopped living. I am invisible, and my life depends on my ability to stay in the shadows.

But he sees me.

I’m on the run, determined not to take him down with me but absolutely unable to let him go.

My name is Riley Peterson…at least for today.

*Among The Echoes is a stand alone novel which contains material that may be offensive to some readers. Including sexual abuse, graphic language, and adult situations. Intended for readers 18+.*

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Don’t forget to check out Aly’s Wrecked and Ruined series

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Just a little tease before you go…

I’m currently in the middle of this book, and though I’m not finished yet, I can already tell this one is going to be a favorite of mine. Don’t worry y’all, my review is coming for this seriously fantastic book so stay tuned, and be sure to check out Among the Echoes today!

1Aug2014

Releasing Now: Outside the Box by Rochelle Paige

Posted in Books I love, Releasing Now Book Addicts by mkcooke

Title: Outside the Box (Blythe College, #3)

Author: Rochelle Paige

Publication Date: July 22, 2014

Aubrey earned her love ‘em and leave ‘em reputation with her serial dating past. A pregnancy scare makes her see the light and change her ways. She gets serious about school and stops dating – until she meets Luka and falls head over heels for him.

Luka doesn’t trust easily after having his heart crushed by the girl next door. When he meets Aubrey, he doesn’t think she’s relationship material because of her past – even though he’s drawn to her.

What happens when the girl who always ran the moment a relationship got serious meets The One? Will Aubrey be able to get Luka to see herOutside the Box he’s put her in?

“Oomph,” I grunted into a hard chest as warm hands grasped my arms to steady me. I took a deep breath and a woodsy scent that was somehow both spicy and a little bit sweet hit my nose. I didn’t think I’d ever met a guy who smelled this good before.

“You okay?” a deep voice murmured.

“Yes,” I whispered as I looked up into green eyes, my hands resting against his chest.

“Good. Wouldn’t want to start my night off by mowing down defenseless women, now would I?” he asked as I moved away.

I couldn’t help the laugh that bubbled up at that since I’m the one who ran into him. “No, we certainly wouldn’t,” I said as I stepped into the elevator.

I watched his ass, lovingly hugged by his jeans, as he walked away with a couple of guys I hadn’t even noticed. And just like that, my libido jumped back to life. Holy fucking shit.

Blythe College series

Push the Envelope (Blythe College, #1)

Amazon US | Amazon UK | Barnes & Noble

Hit the Wall (Blythe College, #2)

Amazon US | Amazon UK | Barnes & Noble

Summer Nights (Blythe College, #2.5)

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Outside the Box (Blythe College, #3)

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I absolutely adore reading – always have and always will. My friends growing up used to tease me when I would trail after them, trying to read and walk at the same time. If I have downtime, odds are you will find me reading or writing.

I am the mother of two wonderful sons who have inspired me to chase my dream of being an author. I want them to learn from me that you can live your dream as long as you are willing to work for it.

When I told my mom that my new year’s resolution was to self-publish a book in 2013, she pretty much told me “About time!”

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I have to tell y’all that I absolutely loved this book! It was such a fantastic addition to this series, and I absolutely adored reading Aubrey and Luka’s story! It’s one that I know you will all just adore, so be sure to check it out today.

23Jul2014

Redeeming Justice

Posted in Books I love, Releasing Now Book Addicts, Review Post by mkcooke

If I could give this book more than 5 stars, I most definitely would! Hold on to your butts folks, because this book was freaking phenomenal, and I know y’all are going to love it as much as I did!

Redeeming Justice

By: Suzanee Halliday

Buy Links:

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Synopsis:

Sometimes …Happily Ever After comes with a price

Alex Marquez wears many hats. Sometimes he’s the slightly patrician Don of a family with deep Spanish roots. Other times he’s a brilliant tech-God and CEO of an exclusive security agency. He’s also a boss, a musician, and a fierce friend. At the core though he’s a former Special Forces Commander, wounded in action, haunted by the heavy burdens of regret and what ifs that linger to this day. For him, personal redemption would never come. Too much darkness, not enough light.

And then Meghan O’Brien swoops into his life. She’s a ball busting curvy goddess who instantly pushes all Alex’s buttons.

When ghosts from the past threaten to destroy their relationship, Alex pushes her away. Meghan has a promising life ahead while his was blown to bits in a war zone. Hurt and bewildered, she comes to realize that loving Alex as she did was not a guarantee of an easy future. He had demons and if she took him on, those nightmares and the emotional aftermath were going to be coming along for the ride.

Was the redemption Alex sought to be found in her arms? Would finding his soul through the love of another finally send the demons packing and lay the past to rest?

My Review:

Let me start of this review by saying that I absolutely freaking loved this book, and I could rave about it for pages and pages. I have read all of the other books in the Justice Brothers Series, but I have to say this one is my favorite. (Not that I didn’t love the others, but this one just took the cake!)

And when you read a book that has the line “Bitches like romance” in it, how could you possibly not love the book? The answer to that question is you can’t. You won’t be able to resist the magnificence that is Redeeming Justice. It’s just impossible because this book was just that good.

What I absolutely freaking adored about this book:

Redemption Seeking Alex Marquez. Alex Marquez was a truly flawed character seeking redemption for things he ultimately had no control over. He has some very dark moments, but those moments combined with his physical and emotional scars just made me love and feel for him so much more. He’s also charming as hell, and even when he’s an ass, you’ll heart him something fierce.
Meghan’s Got Some Sass. I absolutely loved Meghan’s character. She had some serious sass and fire flowing through her, and I adored when that came out full force. She was a no nonsense gal who was the perfect match for Alex’s brooding self. Getting to read and see her spark was just phenomenal, and I couldn’t help but love her.
The Chemistry Is Off The Charts. The chemistry between Alex and Meghan is scorching hot. It’s freaking off the charts, and while reading you’ll be searching for your fan because it’s so hot. That heat defines the strength of the instantaneous and powerful connection they have, and makes this book what it is.
The Ups and Downs. The ups and downs that this book take you through are truly engaging and will keep you enthralled with this book until the last page. You won’t be able to put this book down because you will HAVE to know how everything turns out for these two. I dare you to not read this book in one sitting. I. DARE. YOU.
The Gangs All Here. This book brings back all of the other characters in the series that I just adore to pieces: Cam, Lacey, Draegyn, and Tori. The connections these characters have run deep, and you feel that through every word. Suzanne Halliday does an extraordinary job of bringing these dynamic characters together in such a way that is moving beyond words. You’ll feel the love they have for one another wholly, and it’ll just make you smile.
The Fight for the Happy. The fight that Alex goes through within himself, and the fight he goes through with Meghan throughout the book is wholly captivating. He’s fighting his inner demons, and both he and Meghan are fighting a lot to be together. That fight and that tenacity is just breathtaking. Both of these characters push each other to be better, and that brings out so much in both of them that you see in their alternating perspectives.
Family, Family, Family. This entire series is about family. You see some really great ones, and some really bad ones, but the true family in this series is the Justice Brothers. This book at its heart and soul is about family and the connections developed with others. You feel that connection with family with every word, and it’s just beautiful to read.
The Light. While this book is probably the heaviest book in the series when it comes to inner demons and darkness, the light that shines through that darkness is magnificent. This book balances that dark and light wonderfully, and there were many moments that I couldn’t help but smile and laugh out loud at. That balance of the dark and the light is just great, and all that darkness makes the light so much better…
The Theme of Redemption. This book is about a lot of things, but redemption is probably the biggest. This theme weaves its way through both Alex and Meghan, and it just makes this book remarkable. For Alex, redemption is what he seeks, and at times that journey is so utterly painful and raw that you’ll just want to reach in and comfort him until its better. Through all those instances though you will be captivated by it all.

So I could go on and on about this book, but I’ll cut it off here. I sincerely hope you give Redeeming Justice and the other Justice Brothers a chance, because you won’t be sorry if you do. To end this review I’m “stealing” what I already wrote in my Goodreads review of this book, because I think it sums it all up pretty well.

Redeeming Justice is a book about a lot of things. It’s about redemption for things in the past. It’s about healing from past hurt. It’s about finding the light, and it’s about finding the love that makes all the pain worthwhile. This book was out of this world remarkable, and made for a truly great reading experience you won’t want to miss. The characters are great, the story is magnificent and well-paced, and in the end, you’ll be so happy you had a chance to experience it!

Meet the Author:

Suzanne Halliday can be found at the following links, so be sure to check her out today because she is just fabulous!

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See Where It All Began:

The first book in the Justice Brothers Series, Broken Justice, is currently on sale for just 99 pennies! Be sure to grab this one to see where all the redemption began for these 3 extremely enthralling Justice Brothers!

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22Jul2014

Releasing Now: Don’t Let Go

Posted in Books I love, Releasing Now Book Addicts by mkcooke

Release Day Blitz

22^nd July – USA & Canada

29^th July – UK, Australia & New Zealand

Book: Don’t Let Go

(A Full Heart Novella)

Author: MJ Summers

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Synopsis:

M.J. has been working on a little something sweet and savory for you while you wait for Breaking Love to be released…

Readers fell in love with Ben and Alicia’s picture-perfect marriage in BREAK IN TWO, but, for these two, the road to a happy ending hasn’t always been smooth.

Alicia Williams has been in love with Ben Mitchell since he picked her up out of the mud in elementary school. But baseball-obsessed Ben has dreams to make it to the majors and see the world, and those dreams don’t include the girl next door, no matter how perfect she is. Ben is forced to choose and he leaves Alicia behind – but dreams can change and regrets can grow. When Ben returns back home to the ranch in Colorado Springs, trying to re-discover the man he was meant to be, will the girl he can’t get off his mind still be waiting?

Join Ben and Alicia in DON’T LET GO as they fall in love and discover that sometimes life’s greatest adventure is the one you find at home.

Meet the Author:

MJ Summers currently resides in Canada, not far from the Rocky Mountains, with her husband, three young children and their goofy dog. When she’s not writing erotic novels she loves running, reading, going for long dinners with her girlfriends, swimming, and camping with her family.

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Buy the Book:

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Don’t Let Go Playlist:

“Ahead by a Century” by The Tragically Hip

“Over You” by Miranda Lambert

“The Lightning Strike” by Snow Patrol

“Brave” by Sara Bareilles

“Like a Star” by Corinne Bailey Rae

“Weather to Fly” by Elbow

Excerpt:

“How about you and me pretend we are the only two people on this island and we’re staying for a good long time?” Ben nuzzled her neck for a moment and then found her earlobe with his lips, savouring it.

“Why, Ben,” Alicia said coyly, “if there is no one else on this island, that means we can do anything we like, anywhere we like . . .”

“Exactly,” Ben replied in a low, sexy tone as he slid his hand in between her thighs. Finding the high slit in her skirt, he ran his large hand along the silk of her legs, wasting no time in getting to her bikini bottoms. He toyed with the strings resting on her hips. One little tug and they would fall away from her, leaving her exposed under her skirt. Trailing kisses down her neck to her collarbone, he pulled at the strings. “I’ve been waiting to do that all day,” he murmured in her ear.

Alicia gasped a little at the thought of being so exposed to the world before she realized that they really were alone. She allowed herself to enjoy the hot breeze as it caressed her sensitive skin. “That’s kind of why I bought it.”

Ben’s fingers moved along the length of her sex, taking in its satin warmth. Alicia gave a little moan and turned to find his mouth with hers, feeling her body respond as it always did to Ben’s touch. After years of his kisses, she never stopped getting that thrill from feeling his lips on her. He kissed her the way he looked at her, as though she were the only woman to have ever inhabited the planet.

Sliding his fingertips gently into her, pressing his palm against her, rubbing with exactly the amount of pressure that he knew she loved, Ben knew every inch of her body, how she wanted to be touched, what she needed, and he took full advantage of that knowledge as he moved his other hand up over her breasts. Moving his fingers in tiny circles inside her, he could feel her press herself hungrily against his hand. It wasn’t long before they reached that exquisite moment when she tensed in long waves as commanding as those in the ocean nearby. Alicia bit down on her lip to stifle the loud cry that begged to erupt from her throat. Ben’s own breathing become ragged and his entire body hardened at the desire that was building up in him. He wanted her right there on that beach and he was going to have her.

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21Jul2014

Releasing Now: Uninhibited

Posted in Books I love, Releasing Now Book Addicts by mkcooke

Book Title: Uninhibited

Author: Melody Grace

Genre: New Adult

Release Date: July 21, 2014

Hosted by: Book Enthusiast Promotions & Mark My Words Book Publicity

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He’ll teach her a pleasure beyond her wildest dreams…

Alicia Wright isn’t the kind of girl to make out with a stranger in a dark alley. She’s spent years playing it safe, pining after the perfect man – who’s about to marry someone else. She doesn’t know how to move on, until a sexy stranger turns her world upside down with a wickedly tempting proposition…

She’ll rescue him from the edge of oblivion.

Rock star Dex Callahan swore his days of fame and debauchery were behind him, but the spotlight keeps calling his name. Determined not to fall into his old life, he goes looking for distraction — and finds an intoxicating red-head with a mouth made for sin. One kiss could never be enough, so Dex offers her a deal: spend one week with him, and she’ll forget her old flame ever existed.

Together, they’ll ignite a passion that will change them forever…

No rules. No limits. As the whirlwind week of pleasure unfolds, Alicia discovers a desire she never knew existed – and the tortured heart Dex hides behind his charming smile. But can old loves so easily be replaced? And when the week is over, will their bond be strong enough to weather the storm?

Melody Grace returns with her sexiest book yet!

*This book contains adult situations and explicit content. 17+*

UNINHIBITED is set 3 months after the events of UNREQUITED, but can be enjoyed as a stand-alone novel.

Book-lover and author of USA Today & international bestselling Beachwood Bay series. I’m 28, a SoCal transplant, and sexy new adult romance junkie 😉

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Frostbitten

By: Heather Beck

Genre: Young Adult Paranormal Romance

****4 1/2 Wonderful Stars****

Book Trailer:

Frostbitten truly was a wonderful book, and I am so glad I had the chance to read it. The writing is beautiful and the story is great, so be sure to check out this book and Heather Beck today!

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Among the Echoes

By: Aly Martinez

Genre: Erotic Suspense

*****5 Seriously Deserved Stars*****

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Don’t forget to check out Aly’s Wrecked and Ruined series

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I seriously cannot recommend this book to you all enough. It just hit it out of the park with the level of action & suspense, passion & love, pain & vulnerability, and the overall level of emotion. So do yourself a favor and check out this gem of a book today. You won’t be sorry.

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Incandescent Knights

Rebels MC #1

By: River Savage

Release Date:August 11,2014

*****5 Amazingly Hot Stars*****

River would love to hear from you. You can contact her via email at riversavageauthor@gmail.com or follow her via the links below.

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Undeniable Attraction

By: Eliza Brown

Genre: Romantic Suspense/Contemporary Romance

Just a little tease…

**4 1/2 HOT HOT STARS**

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Surrounded

A Novel by SC Ellington

Unsettled Romance Series # 2

Releases August 5th 2014

🌟🌟4 1/2 FANTASTIC STARS🌟🌟

Unsettled (Book #1) is on SALE!

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Title: Among the Echoes

Author: Aly Martinez

Publication Date: July 31, 2014

Genre: Erotic Suspense

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Don’t forget to check out Aly’s Wrecked and Ruined series

Click below to enter!

Just a little tease before you go…

I’m currently in the middle of this book, and though I’m not finished yet, I can already tell this one is going to be a favorite of mine. Don’t worry y’all, my review is coming for this seriously fantastic book so stay tuned, and be sure to check out Among the Echoes today!

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Title: Outside the Box (Blythe College, #3)

Author: Rochelle Paige

Publication Date: July 22, 2014

Blythe College series

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Click the link below to enter!

Just a little tease before you go…

I have to tell y’all that I absolutely loved this book! It was such a fantastic addition to this series, and I absolutely adored reading Aubrey and Luka’s story! It’s one that I know you will all just adore, so be sure to check it out today.

Share this:

If I could give this book more than 5 stars, I most definitely would! Hold on to your butts folks, because this book was freaking phenomenal, and I know y’all are going to love it as much as I did!

Redeeming Justice

By: Suzanee Halliday

Buy Links:

Synopsis:

My Review:

Meet the Author:

Suzanne Halliday can be found at the following links, so be sure to check her out today because she is just fabulous!

Giveaway: Click below to enter!

See Where It All Began:

The first book in the Justice Brothers Series, Broken Justice, is currently on sale for just 99 pennies! Be sure to grab this one to see where all the redemption began for these 3 extremely enthralling Justice Brothers!

Just a Little Tease Before You Go…

Share this:

Release Day Blitz 22nd July – USA & Canada 29th July – UK, Australia & New Zealand

Book: Don’t Let Go

(A Full Heart Novella)

Author: MJ Summers

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Synopsis:

Meet the Author:

Buy the Book:

Don’t Let Go Playlist:

4 1/2 Wonderful Stars

5 Seriously Deserved Stars

5 Amazingly Hot Stars

4 1/2 HOT HOT STARS

Release Day Blitz

22^nd July – USA & Canada

29^th July – UK, Australia & New Zealand