Cover Reveal & Giveaway: FREED by Lynetta Halat

Title: Freed (Unlovable, #2)

Author: Lynetta Halat

Release Date: May 5, 2014

Genre: New Adult/Contemporary Romance

Series: Freed is the conclusion to the Used storyline

Cover Designer: Sommer Stein at Perfect Pear Creative Design

Photographer: Toski Covey Photography

*Synopsis*

Truth. Pain. Freedom. 

An awakening like no other. 

When life is determined to buck you off, dig in and ride hard. 

The bull. The most dangerous lies are the ones we tell ourselves. To survive, I have to face the truth. Easier said than done when it’s not all black and white. There’s the in-between, and this murky void is where I always tend to land. 

The horns. Lies don’t always hurt. My lies protected me, but when they are exposed and I can no longer outrun the many shades of truth, I’ll be in for one hell of a reckoning. 

The ride. From the outside, my life looks like one big adventure after another. But, there is no freedom in anarchy, and that’s the way I’ve lived my life. Until now. Until Ransom. 

Denver Dempsey was a slut for oblivion. Now, she’s a slut for love. And it’s that kind of thinking that got her in trouble in the first place. Ransom awakens Denver in ways she never imagined, but when her true feelings send her reeling, will they catapult her into the arms of Greer—her ex best-friend-with-benefits? After never loving anyone, herself included, she now loves two. One kept her alive. One teaches her how to live. If they didn’t both love her … if hearts weren’t bound to be broken, it would be the stuff dreams are made of.

Will Denver remain locked up in the bullpen, or is she strong enough to open the chute and be freed?

Excerpt

Bending down in front of me, Ransom taps one foot so that I’ll raise it. He slides one leg of my panties on and then the other before pulling them up to rest just below my skirt. Fixing me with his stare, he grasps my thighs and presses his nose and mouth to my center. My back arches from the wall, but my hands stay where he placed them. “Fuck, you smell good. Good enough to eat, but that can’t happen tonight.”

I whimper low in my throat as he runs his nose and open mouth over the apex of my thighs, placing open-mouthed kisses right where I need him most. My eyelids flutter and close, only to pop back open when he commands, “Eyes on me.” He places a light kiss right over my swollen, begging center. My whole body convulses.

“Nuh, uh,” he chastises, enjoying himself entirely too much. Hooking his fingers in my panties again, he draws them up over my thighs and under my skirt. His calloused fingertips scratch my soft skin even though his touch is gentle. Once he has them in place, he runs his fingertips down the triangle of the fabric ever so slowly, stopping before he reaches my need. Goose bumps make quick work of my body. “I’m addicted to how responsive you are to my touch,” he whispers, planting a hard kiss there this time. A desperate moan wrenches itself from my throat. “And I haven’t even really touched you or tasted you yet. Can you imagine how good we’re going to be together, Denver?”

Swallowing hard, I manage a nod ‘cause that’s rhetorical, right? Ransom slides his hands from under my skirt and skims them up my body to fit his hands around my jaw. He plants a quick kiss on my ear before sucking the lobe into his mouth and nipping at it. “Remember what I said,” he whispers. “No touching yourself. Your orgasms are mine. And when you deserve them, I’ll be the one to give them to you.” I whimper again. “If it helps, I can’t fucking wait, and when I’m stroking myself tonight, it’ll be with your soft moans in my ear, your incredible scent surrounding me, and your delectable body that I’m imagining losing myself in.”

I groan because no, that doesn’t help at all, actually. I bite down on voicing my frustration because I know it’ll get me nowhere with this man.

All rights reserved. Copyright Lynetta Halat 2014.

****************

Used (Unlovable, #1) 

Amazon US - B&N - Amazon UK - iTunes

I am a slut. No worries. I've come to terms with it, and you will too. I’m not one of those girls who thinks she’s too plain, too fat, too skinny, too shy … no, I don’t have that kind of luck. I’m the girl who knows she’s just right for everyone. — Denver

A reputation as a manwhore–with–a–heart–of–gold tends to precede me. But, I don’t do girls with issues, that is until this girl. It's this girl I want to fix. This girl I want to protect. And maybe … more. — Ransom

Being in love with the same girl your entire life isn't all it's cracked up to be. She uses me in every way imaginable. How does she see me? I am her perpetual one-night stand. No strings, no attachments. Just mind-numbing sex ... for her anyway. — Greer

Feeling like the life is being choked out of her in the small town of Anaconda, Montana, Denver Dempsey craves the escape that college offers … even if that means leaving her “best friend with benefits” and looking for a new way to forget. Thinking she's found the perfect hookup in Ransom, Denver's outlook on college is bright. That is, until Greer shows up looking for a second chance, and Ransom's interest turns to hatred.

Love. Hate. Triangle.

Who's using who?

***************

About the Author

Website • Amazon • Twitter • Facebook • Goodreads

Since the dawn of time, Lynetta Halat has lived to read and has written innumerable stories and plays. A lover of good books, bad boys, and kickass tunes, she'd always dreamt of penning books that people could connect with and remember. She also has a secret penchant for wringing the emotions out of unsuspecting readers, and she collects reader's tears in much the same way that wine connoisseurs collect their favorite vintage.

Her first novel, Every Rose, was the perfect catalyst to launch her into the world of publishing, effectively burrowing her way into the hearts and minds of readers throughout the world. She followed that with Everything I've Never Had, her bestselling adult romance novel. Now, she has penned Used and Freed, New Adult Romances that she hopes sinks their teeth into you and don't let go.

Her love of the English language prompted her to pursue a Master's degree in English from Old Dominion University in Virginia, where she also minored in snark and interpretive dance. She lives somewhere along the Mississippi Gulf Coast with her adorable husband, two amazing sons, and two loveable dogs. When she's not writing riveting stories, she likes to focus on her macramé art and her scouring of eBay, where she buys locks of hair from her favorite rock stars, most especially Bret Michaels and Dave Grohl.

***************

Giveaway

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Excerpt: FREED by Lynetta Halat

I'm so excited to share this excerpt with all of you :D!!! Freed is the second installment in the UNLOVABLE SERIES by Lynetta Halat, and if you haven't read it already you are missing out on a great read. This is one of those few books that has a love triangle that doesn't feel like a love triangle. If you've read USED let me know what TEAM you are :). I am TEAM RANSOM!!!

Freed (Unlovable, #2) by Lynetta Halat Excerpt (Coming 5.5.14) :

“Tell me what you feel,” he demands.

My mouth’s gone completely dry, so I have to swallow hard and wet my lips before I can speak. Even then, I don’t know how I manage, “I feel … good.”

“Good?” The smile in his voice burns so bright I can see it through my blindfold. “You can do better than … good.”

I search my feeble mind, grasping at words that will please him. I am nothing if I can’t please him. He’s made damn sure of it. “Your voice scratches across my skin like charcoal, and I am only what you sketch me to be. Your scent wraps around me like a winter’s night, making me long for the blanket of your skin, yet my body blazes from your withheld touch.”

“Very good,” he praises.

I imagine him standing over me, gazing down on me like he owns me because he does. He’s shirtless in only his faded button fly Wranglers. His dark skin glistening from the sweat of exertion, excitement dancing in his eyes like rays of sunlight on the sea, and his full lips beckoning me to kiss him. I squirm as much as I’m able. “I wish I could see you.”

“All in good time, little fighter,” he soothes. “You’re doing so well.”

Suddenly, his lips hover over mine, but I know better than to close the distance. “Kiss me,” he commands.

Hmm … my pleasure …

Copyright 2014 by Lynetta Halat. All rights reserved.

 

Goodreads~~~>https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20330937-freed

 

 

Unlovable Series:

Title: Used (Unlovable #1)

Author: Lynetta Halat
  
Genre: New Adult Romance 

Release Date: January 19, 2014 Series: Unlovable

Review: 5 STARS

Synopsis

I am a slut. No worries. I've come to terms with it, and you will too. I’m not one of those girls who thinks she’s too plain, too fat, too skinny, too shy … no, I don’t have that kind of luck. I’m the girl who knows she’s just right for everyone. — Denver A reputation as a manwhore–with–a–heart–of–gold tends to precede me. But, I don’t do girls with issues, that is until this girl. It's this girl I want to fix. This girl I want to protect. And maybe … more. — Ransom Being in love with the same girl your entire life isn't all it's cracked up to be. She uses me in every way imaginable. How does she see me? I am her perpetual one-night stand. No strings, no attachments. Just mind-numbing sex ... for her anyway. — Greer Feeling like the life is being choked out of her in the small town of Anaconda, Montana, Denver Dempsey craves the escape that college offers … even if that means leaving her “best friend with benefits” and looking for a new way to forget. Thinking she's found the perfect hookup in Ransom, Denver's outlook on college is bright. That is, until Greer shows up looking for a second chance, and Ransom's interest turns to hatred. Love. Hate. Triangle.  Who's using who?

Buy the Book

Amazon US  | Amazon UK  | Amazon AU  | Amazon CA  | Barnes & Noble  | Smashwords

Favorites Giveaway Hop

I am excited to participate in Favorites Giveaway Hop, hosted by Stuck In Books. When I saw this giveaway hop I knew I just had to be participate. I always love pimping, recommending, and giving away my favorite reads to my followers and readers.  It was super hard to just pick a few favorites to giveaway for this hop, because I just have so many. What am I going to give away? I'm going to giveaway SIX of my favorite reads to ONE LUCKY WINNER :D!

 

One Lucky Winner will win a kindle copy of:

~Kiss the Sky by Krista & Becca Ritchie

~Willing Captive by Belle Aurora

~Branded by Abi Ketner & Missy Kalicicki

~Taut: The Ford Book by J.A. Huss

~Used by Lynetta Halat

~Come to Me Quietly by A.L. Jackson

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Thank you for stopping by my blog! Hop along for the chances to win more books from the rest of the bloggers :).

 

Blog Tour (Review) & Giveaway: Used by Lynetta Halat

 

Welcome to my stop in the USED by Lynetta Halat Blog Tour, hosted by Love Between the Sheets.

Title: Used (Unlovable #1)

Author: Lynetta Halat

Genre: New Adult Romance

Release Date: January 19, 2014

Series: Unlovable

Hosted by: Love Between the Sheets Promotions

Synopsis

I am a slut. No worries. I've come to terms with it, and you will too. I’m not one of those girls who thinks she’s too plain, too fat, too skinny, too shy … no, I don’t have that kind of luck. I’m the girl who knows she’s just right for everyone. — Denver A reputation as a manwhore–with–a–heart–of–gold tends to precede me. But, I don’t do girls with issues, that is until this girl. It's this girl I want to fix. This girl I want to protect. And maybe … more. — Ransom Being in love with the same girl your entire life isn't all it's cracked up to be. She uses me in every way imaginable. How does she see me? I am her perpetual one-night stand. No strings, no attachments. Just mind-numbing sex ... for her anyway. — Greer Feeling like the life is being choked out of her in the small town of Anaconda, Montana, Denver Dempsey craves the escape that college offers … even if that means leaving her “best friend with benefits” and looking for a new way to forget. Thinking she's found the perfect hookup in Ransom, Denver's outlook on college is bright. That is, until Greer shows up looking for a second chance, and Ransom's interest turns to hatred. Love. Hate. Triangle.  Who's using who?

Buy the Book

Amazon US  | Amazon UK  | Amazon AU  | Amazon CA  | Barnes & Noble  | Smashwords

 

  

My Thoughts

 

Use or be Used.
Wow. Talk about a book hang over. This is one thing I love about Lynetta Halat. All of her stories and characters are always different. I will never get bored of reading her books :D! Whenever I finish one of her books I am always left wanting more! I'm so glad I discovered her writing last year when she debuted her book Every Rose.

I don't feel like me anymore. So what does that mean? If I'm not me, who am I?
Denver is a complete emotional and psychological wreck. Her mother, father, and the men in her mother's life have completely ruined her. Denver believes she is a slut because of her mother's reputation. This leads Denver to carry all of her mothers burden on her shoulders. She is even afraid to show even a little bit of love to other guys, because she is afraid that she will turn out to be like her mother. Denver believes that she is the only one to blame in the situations she gets herself into. My heart seriously broke for her character, because of all the suffering she endures since a young age and all the way to the present time.

Liking her too much...even beyond liking her...is the real problem.
Ransom is your bull rider in shinning armor :D! Ransom is hot, a bull rider, all tattoos, and he is all alpha male. I have never read a book in which the guy is a bull rider. I have read a few books where the guy is your typical cowboy, but not a professional bull rider- Kodos for Lynetta Halat. I loved him since the very beginning of the story. There are a few sections in the story told from Ransom's POV. I loved reading the from his POV, because we get to see how deep Denver affects him and how he struggles with his feelings towards her. Now, I was not expecting the revelation Lynetta gives us about Ransom's character at the end of the book! I just can't wait to get more of Ransom in FREED.

"If I let you go, I'll go blind. I'll see nothing, be nothing."
I don't know where to start with Greer or how I even feel about his character. Greer is sweet, romantic, and lovable at the beginning of the book. I did like his character but I didn't love him as much as Ransom. There was just something about Greer that didn't hit me in the right way, and this was before the big situation in the story. After that I just hated him so much that I just couldn't stand reading more about him, especially the letter-sorry all Greer fans. I will flat out say that his love for Denver felt more like an obsession to me. I just didn't like how Greer acted and treated Denver in Used. But I won't lay all the blame on Greer's actions here, because Denver is also at fault.

I don't want to want to be with Ransom. I want to want to be with you.
I hate love triangles, because they just get on my fucking nerves with the whole indecisive love and jumping back on forth from one guy to the other. In Used, Lynette didn't make it seem like a love triangle at all. Thank you for saving my sanity! Denver's relationship with Greer is sweet, innocent love at a young age. As they grow up it just becomes a toxic, obsessive, possessive relationship. I loved the sweet memories and moments they share, but when it gets out of control it fucking broke my heart. Denver's relationship with Ransom is all desire, lust, and control. They both want each other and Ransom knows he can give Denver the type of relationship she needs to heal. I can't wait to see where it goes in FREED.

A wrecking ball only goes the direction you send it. It was only fair that it'd had come crashing back into me full force.
Used by Lynette is a gut wrenching that has lust, friendship, loss, betrayal, hate, desire, and angst. The setting and the story stand out from all the other NEW ADULT genre. Used has become a memorable, favorite and out-standing read. Thank you Lynette for writing heart breaking and gut wrenching stories that never fail to emotionally affect me. I will put down any book to read any new release from Lynetta. The ending wasn't much of a cliff-hanger, but Lynette definitely leaves you wanting more. I want FREED NOW! 

Final Verdict: 5 Stars

 

 

About the Author

Since the dawn of time, Lynetta Halat has lived to read and has written innumerable stories and plays. A lover of good books, bad boys, and kickass tunes, she'd always dreamt of penning books that people could connect with and remember. She also has a secret penchant for wringing the emotions out of unsuspecting readers, and she collects reader's tears in much the same way that wine connoisseurs collect their favorite vintage. Her first novel, Every Rose, was the perfect catalyst to launch her into the world of publishing, effectively burrowing her way into the hearts and minds of readers throughout the world. Everything I've Never Had was her follow-up adult romance novel. Now, she has penned Used, a New Adult Romance that she hopes sinks its teeth into you and doesn't let go. Her love of the English language prompted her to pursue a Master's degree in English from Old Dominion University in Virginia, where she also minored in snark and interpretive dance. She lives somewhere along the Mississippi Gulf Coast with her adorable husband, two amazing sons, and two loveable dogs. When she's not writing riveting stories, she likes to focus on her macramé art and her scouring of eBay, where she buys locks of hair from her favorite rock stars, most especially Bret Michaels and Dave Grohl.  

Facebook Page | Website | Twitter: @LynettaHalat | Goodreads | Amazon

 

Giveaway

a Rafflecopter giveaway </

Teaser Tuesday #27: KISS THE SKY by Krista & Becca Ritchie and USED by Lynetta Halat

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along :D! Just do the following:
• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page
• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
• Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

This week I'm going to share TWO teasers from KISS THE SKY by Krista & Becca Ritchie and USED by Lynetta Halat  :D!

 Teaser #1:

Oh my hotness! This scene was just (stops and fans herself) hot.

I shut my eyes for a second, my head tilting back. He still holds my face in a strong, controlling hand. His mouth is so close to my cheek as he moves. I don't have to look to feel him studying me, watching me, a keen eye on all my needs. He knows me too well.

Teaser #2:

I want to know how far I have to climb to be her first importance. I'm willing to work hard to get there, but I need to know who fills her heart before me and if I'll ever be able to surpass them. 

Teaser #1:

The way he praises me, excites me and makes me more eager to please him because I have a feeling, if you please Ransom, the rewards he will lavish upon you will know no bounds.

Teaser #2:

He'd set up a slow drip of poison and watched as it oozed into every aspect of my life, coating me in every way, until I didn't know who I was anymore.

 

What did you think of the teasers? Have you read the Addicted series by Krista & Becca Ritchie or Used by Lynetta Halat?

Leave the link to your teaser tuesday post in the comments below :D!

Author Announcment & Excerpt: USED by Lyentta Halat

Lynetta Halat has a special announcement for all of you bloggers and readers :D! But before I share the announcement with all of you I'm going to share an excerpt and teaser picture from USED. 

Title: Used

 

Author: Lynetta Halat

 

Series: Unlovable #1

 

Expected Publication Date: January 26, 2014

 

Genre: New Adult Contemporary

 

Synopsis:

I am a slut. No worries. I've come to terms with it, and you will too. I’m not one of those girls who thinks she’s too plain, too fat, too skinny, too shy … no, I don’t have that kind of luck. I’m the girl who knows she’s just right for everyone. — Denver

A reputation as a manwhore–with–a–heart–of–gold tends to precede me. But, I don’t do girls with issues, that is until this girl. It's this girl I want to fix. This girl I want to protect. And maybe … more. — Ransom

Being in love with the same girl your entire life isn't all it's cracked up to be. She uses me in every way imaginable. How does she see me? I am her perpetual one-night stand. No strings, no attachments. Just mind-numbing sex ... for her anyway. — Greer

Feeling like the life is being choked out of her in the small town of Anaconda, Montana, Denver Dempsey craves the escape that college offers … even if that means leaving her “best friend with benefits” and looking for a new way to forget. Thinking she's found the perfect hookup in Ransom, Denver's outlook on college is bright. That is, until Greer shows up looking for a second chance, and Ransom's interest turns to hatred.

Love. Hate. Triangle.

Who's using who?
 

 Add Used by Lynetta Halat to your TBR Pile---->Goodreads

Excerpt #2
Used
Copyright by Lynetta Halat 2014. All rights reserved.
Change is Good
“I want to kiss you so bad … but if I kiss you, it will change everything,” he says in
that gravelly voice.
“Change is good,” I whisper.
Rolling to his side, his mouth is centimeters from mine. I can’t make myself move
although I’m aching with want. But I haven’t been kissed—ever. And I haven’t kissed
anyone since that time on the monkey bars in seventh grade when I stuck my tongue in
Brian Thomas’s mouth on a bet. I shocked the shit out of him, and he didn’t even kiss me
back. When the bell rang, he jerked back and hit his head hard, sending him to the nurse
for the rest of the afternoon. Not my finest moment.
“I don’t want to lose my best friend,” he tells me.
I bring up my other hand and run it over his jaw. “You’re not going to lose me. No
matter what. We’ll still be friends.”
“Relationships ruin friendships. We’ve seen enough of that.”
I shiver with that truth. “True. But we’re different. We’ve been together since before
we were born. I can’t live without you, so I won’t hurt our friendship.”
Bringing our entwined hands up, he kisses my knuckles. “Me either. We’ll take it
slow, all right?”
“All right, my golden boy,” I whisper.
The effect of my words is instantaneous; the blue in his eyes intensifies to boiling.
He leans in, his lips brushing mine softly, “Denver,” he whispers against me. “I’ve
always wanted to make you mine. Ever since I understood what that meant. I’ve never
seen anyone but you.” And even though his eyes burn with passion, I hear a little tremor
in his voice. Now, him always putting off those girls makes a whole lot more sense.
“I thought we were taking it slow,” I chastise, but I delight in knowing that he feels
something more for me.
“I just want you to know that I don’t take this lightly. You’re the most important
person in my universe. And I’ll do anything to protect us.”
His declaration unleashes a torrent of need in me, and I no longer want him to kiss
me—I need him to kiss me. “Greer, will you shut up and kiss me, please?”
“Yes, ma’am,” he says with a laugh, and bringing one of his hands up, he cradles my
jaw and draws my lips to his. My free hand skims down to rest at his waist, his jeans
riding low on lean hips and exposing warm, bare skin. His lips are soft and explore mine
as I match his movements. I feel indulged—spoiled by his goodness. I try to savor how
tender and sweet he is even though I am impatient for more, so when I feel his lips part, I
follow suit. His tongue sweeps in, seeking and teasing. I hear myself moan. I’m almost
embarrassed by my eagerness, but when his moan echoes mine, I feel reassured.
He pulls back after a few more seconds and places a gentle kiss on my lips, then on
my nose. “Denver …” he breathes. My name packs a punch, and I feel it everywhere.
Keeping my eyes closed, I just nod and lick my lips, trying to savor every bit of him
and his sweet words.

ANNOUNCEMENT: 

If Lynetta Halat reaches 7K Likes on her author facebook page she will release USED ONE WEEK EARLY! Instead of being released on JAN 24th it can be released on JAN 19th :D. Go 'LIKE' her page right now if you haven't----->https://www.facebook.com/LynettaHalatAuthor

Cover Reveal (Excerpt) & Giveaway: Used by Lynetta Halat

Title: Used

 

Author: Lynetta Halat

 

Series: Unlovable #1

 

Expected Publication Date: January 26, 2014

 

Genre: New Adult Contemporary Romance

 

Cover Design: Sommer Stein at Perfect Pear Creative Design

 

Photographer: Toski Covey Photography

 

Synopsis:

I am a slut. No worries. I've come to terms with it, and you will too. I’m not one of those girls who thinks she’s too plain, too fat, too skinny, too shy … no, I don’t have that kind of luck. I’m the girl who knows she’s just right for everyone. — Denver

A reputation as a manwhore–with–a–heart–of–gold tends to precede me. But, I don’t do girls with issues, that is until this girl. It's this girl I want to fix. This girl I want to protect. And maybe … more. — Ransom

Being in love with the same girl your entire life isn't all it's cracked up to be. She uses me in every way imaginable. How does she see me? I am her perpetual one-night stand. No strings, no attachments. Just mind-numbing sex ... for her anyway. — Greer

Feeling like the life is being choked out of her in the small town of Anaconda, Montana, Denver Dempsey craves the escape that college offers …even if that means leaving her “best friend with benefits” and looking for a new way to forget. Thinking she's found the perfect hookup in Ransom, Denver's outlook on college is bright. That is, until Greer shows up looking for a second chance, and Ransom's interest turns to hatred.

Love. Hate. Triangle.

Who's using who?

Add Used by Lynetta Halat to your TBR Pile----> Goodreads

Excerpt: 

 

Meet Denver

“She’s, at best, a fuck buddy. However, I prefer the term ‘whore.’ Fuck buddy is far too nice a term for her,” a catty voice cracks from behind me.

I take a deep breath and look up at the ceiling, saying a little prayer that maybe the venomous voice isn’t referring to me. I thought I’d left all that behind in Anaconda. We’d been here for all of three days, so it’s highly probable they’re not talking about me, right?  Looking back down, I continue pouring Jack in my Solo cup, surpassing the line that is recommended for liquor.

“Yeah, so apparently, she’s got some serious issues and doesn’t ‘do’ relationships. So, she puts out for her guy friends whose girls are too good to give it up. That’s her idea of a relationship.”

“Really? That’s kinda gross,” I hear the other girl mutter.

Sonofabitch! I groan. Yep, they’re talking about me. I splash a little Coke in my cup and stick my finger in it to stir it around a little. I feel tears spring to my eyes and berate myself for still having feelings and giving a shit what people think about me. Years of dealing with this crap should have made me immune, but I’d really hoped college would be different. And how the hell do they even know about that shit? Strengthening my spine, I turn and give them a beguiling smile, which causes them both to blanch. Yeah, bitches, you’ve no idea who you’re dealing with.

“Ladies,” I say with a quirked eyebrow. Removing my finger from the drink, I place it in my mouth and suck off the excess. With a pop, I release it. “I see my reputation precedes me. Well, let me just reassure you that I’m very good at what I do. When you won’t give it up for your guy, he’ll be looking me up, and I’ll be more than happy to take care of him. No questions. No strings. Just lots of meaningless … hot … sex.” I peer around them with a searching look. “Are they here? Your boyfriends?” I look back at them innocently. I almost snort at their mutual expressions of surprise and disdain. “Or,” I continue, “are the sticks up your asses enough so that you don’t need a man?” Both of their mouths drop on that line. Yep, gets ‘em every time. “Oh, no judgment here,” I vow. “I totally get not wanting to be tied down to any one Dick … or Tom … or Harry.”

All rights reserved. Copyright Lynetta Halat 2013.

 

 About the Author:

Since the dawn of time, Lynetta Halat has lived to read and has written innumerable stories and plays. A lover of good books, bad boys, and kickass tunes, she'd always dreamt of penning books that people could connect with and remember. She also has a secret penchant for wringing the emotions out of unsuspecting readers, and she collects reader's tears in much the same way that wine connoisseurs collect their favorite vintage.

Her first novel, Every Rose, was the perfect catalyst to launch her into the world of publishing, effectively burrowing her way into the hearts and minds of readers throughout the world. Everything I've Never Had was her follow-up adult romance novel. Now, she has penned Used, a New Adult Romance that she hopes sinks its teeth into you and doesn't let go.

Her love of the English language prompted her to pursue a Master's degree in English from Old Dominion University in Virginia, where she also minored in snark and interpretive dance. She lives somewhere along the Mississippi Gulf Coast with her adorable husband, two amazing sons, and two loveable dogs. When she's not writing riveting stories, she likes to focus on her macramé art and her scouring of eBay, where she buys locks of hair from her favorite rock stars, most especially Bret Michaels and Dave Grohl.

Find Lynetta Halat:

Website  ~  Facebook  ~  Twitter  ~   Amazon  ~  Goodreads

 

 

Giveaway:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

Teaser Tuesday #17: Everything I've Never Had & Relinquishing Liberty

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along :D! Just do the following:
• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page
• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
• Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!
 
 This week I will be posting teasers from both Everything I've Never Had by Lynetta Halat and Relinquishing Liberty by Maureen Mayer.

 

 

Teaser #1:

I'm hurting myself and him, yet I can't do anything about it. I want to touch him, but I know I have to be stronger than that.

Teaser #2:

I know we've only had a couple of weeks together, but what we've been able to carve out is everything I've ever needed. I'm not ready to give that up. I'm certainly not ready to give him up.

Teaser #1:

As much as I hated to admit it, my mystery man captivated me in ways I wasn’t sure I wanted him to; I was drawn to him like a moth to a flame.

Teaser #2:

There was so much we both wanted to say, but we didn’t need to use our words to converse. It was amazing how much I could read into his emotions just by looking into his gorgeous green eyes.

What did you think of my teasers? Have you read any of these books?

Leave a link to your Teaser Tuesday post in the comments :D!

 

Blog Tour (Review) & Giveaway: Everything I've Never Had by Lynetta Halat

Welcome to my stop in the Everything I've Never Had by Lynetta Halat Blog Tour, hosted by Angie's Dreamy Reads :D! You can read my review, read an excerpt, see my Everything I've Never Had Collage (SPOILERS), and enter the 2 giveaways at the bottom of the post. I am also giving away (2) Kindle copies of Everything I've Never Had by Lynetta Halat for my 571 FB Likes Giveaway!

Title: Everything I've Never Had

 

Author: Lynetta Halat

 

Series: Stand Alone

 

Publication Date: September 2, 2013

 

Genre: Contemporary Romance

 

Cover Design by: Sarah Hansen at Okay Creations

 

Source: e-arc was provided by author for blog tour, in exchange for my honest thoughts and review.

 

Synopsis:

Celeste Hebert appears to have it all, but there are many things she's never had, been forbidden from having.

One night. One song. One kiss. The perfect trifecta to unleash the floodgates of a forbidden attraction between the widow and her husband’s bad boy cousin, Adrian.

Celeste endeavors to rebury the feelings that surface after this one night since her powerful family despises him. Kindred spirits, best of friends they attempt to douse their attraction; however, Adrian always seems to know exactly how to push her buttons and may prove too much to resist.

Having defied his family by making his way on his own terms, Adrian struggles to regain their acceptance. When he meets his cousin’s wife and wants her for his own, he feels he’s finally lived down to the title—black sheep. But, when his cousin dies unexpectedly, Adrian fights his attraction and swears to honor them both by helping her raise her boys.

Finding himself enveloped in a cocoon of love and acceptance, Adrian knows it’s more than just physical attraction. However, unforeseen events threaten to destroy those he now holds dear and his newfound peace.

Will the ties that bind them be their undoing?

 

Add Everything I've Never Had by Lynetta Halat to your TBR Shelf--->Goodreads

 

Buy Everything I've Never Had:

Amazon (US)  ~  Amazon (CA)  ~  Amazon (UK)  ~  B&N  ~   Smashwords

My Thoughts:

 

A little run of pleasure isn't worth the destruction it will surely inflict.

Lynetta Halat has done it again!!! She has written a romantic love story of unrequited love, with a lot of twists and turns that you will not see them coming. I will flat-out admit that when I found out the protagonist was older than the guy, I was not quite sure if I wanted to continue reading the story- not really into the whole cougar thing. But I was glad that this didn't stop me from reading Everything I've Never Had! Once I started it I couldn't put it down. Lynetta Halat starts the Prologue with one of the hottest swoon worthy moments, that I was literally fanning myself! Who wouldn't want to continue reading Celeste's and Adrian's unrequited love story?!? 

I've had my fill of being told what to do.

Like I said before I was not that comfortable having Celeste being older than Adrian. I thought I was going to have problems with this, but as I continued to read Everything I've Ever Had, the age difference never really made me uncomfortable. Who is Celeste Hebert? I will not really admit what she is, because I loved this twist Lynetta added to the story! But I can say that the people around her have always dictated her life. Celeste has never truly been able to stand-up to these people, because of what they are and she fears that they might do something to her family. Do I see Celeste as a weak woman? Heck No! Celeste is one of the strongest and bravest heroine's I've read about. This is one of the traits I loved about her character. She is willing to risk whatever she has to do, to protect the people she loves. By the end of the book I was so proud and moved by the actions she takes, because this woman is definitely a fighter. When she wants something she will do anything in her power to get it. Celeste is one of my favorite fighter, brave, and strong heroine that I've read this year.

He's my own slice of forbidden fruit- my deceased husband's outcast cousin.

Adrian, Adrian, Adrian!!!! Adrian is one of the MOST SWOON WORTHY guys that needs to be added to your SWOON WORTHY BOOKBOYFRIENDS LIST :D!! He is not only swoon worthy, because of all those freaking hot and sexy make-out sessions he has with Celeste. He is also swoon worthy, because of all the sweet comments, gestures, and actions he has with Celeste and her sons! Lynetta knew how to balance the scale with Adrian's character, because I've never been so swooned by a guy because of the hot moments and the sweet moments :D! With Adrian's character you get hot, sexy, passionate, naughty, lustful, supportive, protective, loving, honorable, determined, and so much more. Who wouldn't want to take a bite of this delicious forbidden fruit named Adrian Hebert?!?!? I also loved the little mystery Lynetta added to Adrian's character, because I just wanted to find out what he was hiding from Celeste! 

"this one is about the kind of love that compels you, that takes you on a ride like no other. The kind of love that wraps you tight in its embrace before it sinks its teeth into you."

Celeste's and Adrian's relationship starts off as 'just friends.' But they've had the hots for each other, since the first day they met. How can you just remain friends when their bodies call out for each other? But their connection and pull towards each other is not just physical attraction and hunger for each others flesh. Nope, Lynetta Halat always knows how to keep her character's love and connection without always having to be physical. This is one of the things I love about Lynetta's stories, and her character's relationships. With a lot of books you read a book in which the character have to have sex to feel a connection or strong bond with each other. But with Celeste and Adrian you can feel the strong bond they have and the emotional connection they have, without them being all wrapped up under the sheets. Celeste's and Adriana's relationship develops by the support they both give each other, and how they are able to function as a family when they are not even dating. Their relationship just seems natural, because it just feels that they've always been a couple.

But here's the twist, and I guess this is why I really felt their love connection and attraction towards each other so strong, because they can't develop any type of relationship without facing the wrath of their families. This unrequited love gives the story a whole new meaning to Celeste and Adrian's love connection. At the beginning of the story, Lynetta made me experience frustration, anger, love, despair, but all these emotions I felt at different parts in the story. Towards the end I felt like I was in a freaking roller-coaster, because I was experiencing too many emotions at once. But I love every single twist and turn Lynetta throws at Celeste and Adrian's relationship.

"My everything I'd never had," I whisper.

Lynetta Halat blew me away with Celeste's and Adrian's unrequited love story in Everything I've Never Had! I thought I knew what I was going to read when I picked up Everything I've Never Had, but I didn't expect all the little twists and turns Lynetta added. If you've read Every Rose by Lynetta Halat and loved it, then you are going to ABSOLUTELY LOVE Everything I've Never Had. If you read Every Rose by Lynetta Halat, and didn't love it- shame on you-then I can still guarantee that you will love Everything I've Never Had. I can only describe Lynetta's stories as being Original. I am always captivated by her writing, because she knows how to bring the reader inside her stories. I can't wait for her next novel! I hope you are already working on another story Lynetta, because you always leave me wanting more!

 

 

Final Verdict: 4.5 Stars

 

 

 

EXCERPT:

Adrian runs his hands up my arms and shoulders until they grasp both sides of my neck to tilt my head back so that I'm staring straight into his arctic blue eyes. I immediately start trembling, and it's not with fear. "Celeste, I'm begging you not to leave here looking like that. You look gorgeous, babe, but I can't sit here all night wondering who's hitting on you, who's imagining moving that scrap of fabric over to get a glimpse at what is..."

"What is what?" I breathe heavily.

"What is underneath it all." His brow wrinkles, and I feel his hands tighten their pleasurably painful grip. "What is underneath it all?"

"Just me, Adrian, just me," I breathe. "That's all."

"So everything then. Just like I thought." He removes one of his hands to run it up the back of my thigh. My eyes widen and I swallow hard.

"That's not a good idea," I whisper. His hand wraps all the way around my thigh, his fingertips coming to rest along the crease of my left cheek. My thigh pulses with fire.

"Why not?" His fingertips tease back and forth a little. Even though it’s a light touch, it feels like his calloused fingertips mark me.

"Why not? Look at us. We can't even have a civil conversation for everything that has passed between us, and you want to further complicate it. What you're doing will further complicate matters."

His hand stills. He exhales loudly and lets his head drop on my chest. "You do this to me. I don't act like this. That day in the park, watching you cross and uncross your legs. Throwing your hair over your shoulder. Laughing without a care in the world. Cheering me on like it was your favorite thing to do! It killed me. Killed me. I've never wanted a woman the way I want you. Never."

His words rain down on me like fiery drops of lust. I close my eyes and rewrite that memory. I thought he was just being an ass, but his unexpected anger was because he was yearning for me. I bite my lip, open my eyes, and shake my head. "It's just because you can't have me, Adrian. I'm nothing special."

"Oh, baby, you have no idea." He runs his nose up my throat, scenting me as he goes. I lean my neck back, giving him more access even as my brain screams at me to run—not walk—out of this room. But when he says, "You're everything to me." My head falls back even further and my eyes close again as I feel him slant his head and attack my chin, throat, and neck with closed-mouth kisses. I hear myself moan and give myself one more little jolt to try to spare myself from this delicious torment that will only end in frustration.

All rights reserved. Copyright Lynetta Halat 2013.

About the Author: 

For as long as she can remember, Lynetta Halat has lived to read and has written countless stories and plays since she was a young girl. A teacher by day and an avid reader and closet writer by night, she has always dreamt of penning books that people could connect with and remember; and her first novel, Every Rose, is the perfect catalyst to launch her into the world of publishing. Her love of the English language prompted her to pursue a master's degree in English from Old Dominion University in Virginia. A self-proclaimed “Coast Girl,” she lives in Mississippi with her adorable husband, two amazing sons, and two loveable dogs. She is currently at work on her third book.

 

Find Lynetta Halat:

Website  ~  Facebook  ~  Twitter  ~  Goodreads

 

 

Giveaway:

Kindle Paperwhite

$25 Amazon or B&N Gift Card

5 Signed Paperbacks of Everything I’ve Never Had

10 ebooks of Everything I’ve Never Had

a Rafflecopter giveaway 

a Rafflecopter giveaway