Tamara Hoffa's Blog

May 7, 2018

Review- Code Name:War of Stones

Code Name: War of Stones (A Warrior's Challenge series Book 7)


A high-octane Navy SEAL romance thriller!


Years ago, Admiral Thane (Ghost) Austen and Kayla (Snow White) Austen, walked through the smoke and mirrors of battle and survived. They had two children. Sloane is their daughter. Like her father, she’s stubborn, resilient and loyal. Twenty-three-years old and assigned to N.A.B Coronado, Seaman Austen serves her country like her parents once did.


Mustered to the Grinder one afternoon, she’s chosen for an exercise. Partnered with a rugged but handsome Navy SEAL. They’re hustled to Warner Springs where Special Forces conduct S.E.R.E. training. Fifteen couples will be tested in Operation: Skirt’s Down. Sloane and Damon are promised a seven-day vacation in Club Hell. Caged. Hunted. General Northcott, the man in charge, has an ulterior motive. Driven to prove a point and enact revenge. What’s at stake? Everything!


When Ghost receives a call from Sloane screaming, “Delta it’s for Romeo.” The retired admiral knows his daughter is in danger of paying the price for his sins. But one man will fight to the death to keep Sloane alive. Her partner, Lieutenant Damon Stone. And Sloane will fight for his survival, because she’s the daughter of a legend and combat is in her blood. 


My Review *****


Dark, pulse pounding action! Code Name: War of Stones, the last (maybe) book in the Warriors Challenge series grabs you by the ovaries (since we don’t have balls) an squeezes hard. Put away the coffee and grab a glass of wine (maybe a whole bottle) because you’ll need something to calm your nerves. Block off enough time to read it cover to cover, or you’ll be cursing Ms. Waters in the morning like I am today, bleary eyed and hungover from lack of sleep, because you aren’t putting this book down until you turn the last page. Pesky kids want to eat? point them to the peanut butter and bread. Phone rings? Leave a message, I’ll get back to you after I get out of hell with Damon and Sloane.

Sloane is heroine like no other- strong, brave, determined, sassy; with a never say die attitude, even when death is knocking at her door in his haunting hood, scythe aimed at her neck.

Damon Stone is a panty melting hero. The epitome of a seasoned warrior; protective, intelligent, and deadly.

War of Stones takes you to another level of suspense- drawing you into the story so thoroughly your skin crawls, your adrenaline surges, you swell with pride and cry bitter tears.

This is the MUST READ novel of the year. Whether you’ve followed the series from the beginning or are joining the teams for the first time, it is an experience you will never forget.


https://amzn.to/2rqhXM4


 

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Published on May 07, 2018 07:41

February 1, 2018

Wolf’s Capture- Eve Langlais- review

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She might think she’s captured the wolf, but in the end, he’ll take her heart.


Brody is a soldier who misses the excitement of the military and its missions. He retired to work as clan beta in Kodiak Point. Talk about boring, until he’s captured by a foreign enemy.


Him, a prisoner?


Not for long. This wolf will do anything in order to get away–even if it involves seduction.


First step in plotting his escape: pretend interest in a woman. But Layla isn’t just any woman. She’s special.


Not human. Not shifter. He doesn’t know what this exotic lady is other than his.


A prisoner for years, Layla isn’t sure what to make of the enemy who shares a cell with her. He promises her hope, but that would involve trust. Despite her doubts, she can’t help but be drawn to him. Unacceptable which means she does her best to drive him nuts.


Working together, can they escape the clutches of the enemy?


And do they dare fall in love?


Welcome to Kodiak Point, where the wildlife might wear clothes, but animal instinct rules the heart.


My Review *****


Captured my heart


Wolf’s capture is full of action and mystery. Great sexual tension, hot love scenes, and a bit of humor, to lighten things up. Awesomeness!

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Published on February 01, 2018 11:15

January 31, 2018

Review: Tattered Loyalties- Carrie Ann Ryan

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When the great war between the Redwoods and the Centrals occurred three decades ago, the Talon Pack risked their lives for the side of good. After tragedy struck, Gideon Brentwood became the Alpha of the Talons. But the Pack’s stability is threatened, and he’s forced to take mate—only the one fate puts in his path is the woman he shouldn’t want.


Though the daughter of the Redwood Pack’s Beta, Brie Jamenson has known peace for most of her life. When she finds the man who could be her mate, she’s shocked to discover Gideon is the Alpha wolf of the Talon Pack. As a submissive, her strength lies in her heart, not her claws. But if her new Pack disagrees or disapproves of fate’s choice, the consequences could be fatal.


As the worlds Brie and Gideon have always known begin to shift, they must face their challenges together in order to help their Pack and seal their bond. But when the Pack is threatened from the inside, Gideon doesn’t know who he can trust and Brie’s life could be forfeit in the crossfire. It will take the strength of an Alpha and the courage of his mate to realize where true loyalties lie.


https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/2229997281

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Published on January 31, 2018 08:29

January 28, 2018

Review- Only Heaven Knows- Sable Hunter

 


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What could a rough, tough cowboy and a beautiful ex-nun have in common?

Not much, but opposites attract.

Oh, hell yeah, they do.

Denver Bolden thinks the sun rises and sets in Bryn Harmon’s smile and he’s bound and determined to make her his. Once he’s tasted her kiss, he can think of little else. The woman is a fascinating mix of innocence and sensuality. Wooing her becomes his obsession and the passion they share is something he’s unwilling to give up.

Regardless of the cost.

As secrets are revealed and mysteries arise, it seems their chance at love might slip away.

Could a miracle bring them together?

Only heaven knows.


 


https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/2273620433

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Published on January 28, 2018 07:15

June 20, 2017

Review Montana Freedom- Natasza Waters

Montana Freedom (Brotherhood Protectors)


https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35386986-montana-freedom








 5 of 5 stars





This series is a new venture for Natasza Waters and I loved it! A little humor, a lot of suspense, and an eloquent writing style that beautifully draws the reader into the story.


“She smiled when it occurred to her that no matter if she tilled every last square inch of the thousand acre ranch, she’d never have to worry about an IED or daisy chain hidden in the dirt. There wasn’t a sniper perched in some tree branch, steadying his aim. Her heart ached for the angst and unrest in the Middle East where the citizens couldn’t trust their neighbors. The night held dangers with raids by ISIS warriors. Fear captured more space in the villagers’ conscious, never allowing peace a chance.

Afghanistan, where she left her last FST post, was a country of tears.”

I’ve read all of Ms. Waters books and I can safely say I think this is her best work to date, in a string of 5 star novels. How do you top the best? I can’t wait to see in the next one.


http://amzn.to/2rN3sos


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Published on June 20, 2017 10:17

June 16, 2017

A Dragon’s Treasure- Releasing Today!

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A dragon’s most desired treasure is his mate, but what if she didn’t want to be?


A Dragon’s Treasure


Kai has been hunting for his mate for a very long time. Drawn to a singular place on earth, filled with treasures, he still seeks the greatest treasure of them all. His mate.


Fleeing danger, Connie runs into the arms of destiny, but she has plans already, and a Dragon mate is not on the agenda.


Kai has waited centuries for Connie, and he will claim his mate. Patience may not be a Dragon’s virtue, but he always gets his treasure.


Sparks fly in this humorous erotic tale of mating and mayhem.


Excerpt #1:


Connie’s eyes widened. “Ellen, this isn’t another one of your men, is it?” she whispered. A stirring of jealousy nudged her at the thought.


A peal of laughter came from Ellen, while Breccan growled. “No, of course not. This is my foreman, Kai. Kai, this is my cousin Connie.”


“Hi.” Connie smiled appreciatively at Kai, her heart beating erratically. “Ellen, do you have all the good looking men in town on your place?” The jealousy gone, she could feel his pull. So not what she needed right now.


“Hello.” Kai grinned at Connie. “So, this is where you were heading?” He came over and leaned down, grabbing her hand, lifting it to his mouth. His lips were soft, lightning streaked through her body at the touch of his lips against her skin. Connie wanted to drown in the sensation, a shiver spreading across her body.


Connie tugged her hand from his and nodded. “I decided to come visit Ellen. I needed to get away from the city for a bit.” A shadow passed over her face. Seeing it, Kai gazed intently into her eyes. All the men reacted, their spines straightening and eyes sharpening, all looking at Connie.


Kai pulled Connie into his body, wrapping his steely arms around her. “What’s wrong? What are you scared of?”


Connie gasped and wriggled away. Her nipples tightened beneath her thin robe and pajamas. She wouldn’t look down. She didn’t want to know if they were obvious.


“Nothing. Well, something. I can’t talk about it yet. I don’t really know how to explain it.” She shook her head, frustrated that he’d known she hid something. Ignoring her haywire hormones that thought being wrapped around him perfectly fine, she plopped back down in her chair. “Let me get it straight. I already asked Ellen to give me a couple of days. You guys are just going to have to wait also.”


“You can explain it now.” Hands on his hips, every inch of Kai demanded an answer.


Connie glared up into Kai’s eyes. “Well excuse me, Mr. Bossy Pants. Since I don’t know you, you have no say in what I do or don’t do.” Who did he think he was? He had no right to question her. None. “I’m going to get dressed.” Connie flounced up, moving to avoid touching Kai. Gah, even his name was sexy.


 


Excerpt #2:


She would make a magnificent dragon. Wrapped in all the gold he could give her, her flesh peeking from beneath. She was his.


“Kai.”


He looked over at Ellen, lifting a brow in inquiry.


“Don’t mess with my cousin.”


He grinned. “I’m not. She’s my mate.” Ellen’s eyes widened while Breccan and Maxwell snickered. His eyes wandered down the hall she’d flounced out. She might have meant to look fierce, but her bouncy blonde hair and petite size negated that. Kai wanted nothing more than to follow her and claim her. Her scent was even stronger in the enclosed space than wafting on the breeze. He’d bet she wore a dragon’s mark somewhere on her luscious body. He couldn’t wait to hunt for it.


“Holy cow! Are you sure?” Ellen grinned. “That’s great!”


Breccan chimed in. “By her reaction, I’d say not so great.” He sported a big grin on his face. “Looks like Kai will have a battle on his hands.”


Maxwell’s sly twist of his lips showed he was enjoying the situation too.


Kai glared at them. Damn wolves. They were a pain. He could see the colors in the kitchen change as his dragon attempted to get out. A little barbeque wolf was a tasty snack. The rumble of agreement by his dragon made him smirk. He couldn’t hurt those two, no matter how aggravating they were. Breccan was the only reason Ellen didn’t spend her days wrapped in fear any more. His dragon reluctantly settled down.


 


Excerpt #3:


“What is up with the sniffing?” She sounded aggravated.


“What do you mean?”


“You sniffed me, Lou sniffed me, and the doc sniffed me. I took a shower! So, what the heck is going on?”


Kai grinned, a laugh rumbling out of his chest. Eyes spitting fire at him, Connie shoved at him to push him away. He didn’t budge. Kai grabbed her hands, one large hand pinning them down against the car and leaned down to kiss her. He took his time, tracing her soft lips with his tongue before plunging his inside to taste her sweetness. Her flavor burst on his tongue.


Connie struggled at first, and then tilted her head, opening her mouth to further exploration. He deepened the kiss, the softness of her mouth addicting.


Kai released her hands and pulled Connie up against him. Her arms slipped around his neck pulling him down as he pulled her up. Kai ran his hands up and down her back, pulling her legs around his waist. He rumbled. The feel of her curvy body against him drove him crazy. He moved, the denim constricting his erection. His dragon surfaced, wanting to claim her. He pulled her tighter against him, nestling his cock between the warmth he could feel emanating from between her legs. Kai rubbed against her, seeking relief. He wanted nothing more than to burst free and enter that sanctuary his denim denied him.


 


 


Amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071ZPYWGH/


Amazon UK https://www.amazon.co.uk/Dragons-Treasure-Beverly-Ovalle-ebook/dp/B071ZPYWGH/


Universal link http://www.books2read.com/ADragonsTreasure


Barnes & Noble https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-dragons-treasure-beverly-ovalle/1126465379


Kobo https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/a-dragon-s-treasure


iTunes https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/id1243551469


Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35342283-a-dragon-s-treasure


Scribd https://www.scribd.com/book/350072782


Angus & Robertson http://www.angusrobertson.com.au/ebooks/a-dragons-treasure-beverly-ovalle/p/9780996797368


Indigo https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/books/a-dragons-treasure/9780996797368-item.html?ref=isbn-search


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Published on June 16, 2017 10:01

April 13, 2017

Come Party With Me!

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Come hang out with 50 of your

favorite bestselling authors and

keynote speaker, Tonya Kappes,

at an intimate conference.


Meet your favorite authors
Play games
Lunch with your favorite author (Lunch included)
Password for Amazon Gift Cards
3 hr book signing – FREE and Open to the public
Author Baskets raffled with proceeds going to Wounded Warriors and Operation Troop Aid




We will also have some special guests attending!



Featured Authors:

Sandy Lea Sullivan


Merry Farmer

Callie Hutton

Lily Graison

Linda Mooney

Darcy Flynn

Jeanne Hardt

Elaine Meece

Heidi Vanlandingham

Peggy McKenzie

Maxine Douglas

Miranda Lynn Wyatt

Michel Prince

Lynda J. Cox

Lyssa Lane

Donna Michaels

Julie Castle

Michele Shriver

Kandi Silvers

Violet Howe

Charity Parkerson

Regina Puckett

K.J. Coakley

Hildie McQueen

Sable Hunter

Tara Vasser

Tamara Hoffa

Pam Ackerson

Lucy Kelly

Laura Hawks

Kim Law

Terri Osburn

Reana Malori

Christina Tetreault

Chandra Crawford

Kishan Paul

A.L. Long

Shannon West

Adrienne Ruvalcaba

Teresa Reasor

LaVerne Thompson

Tina DeSalvo

Megan Kelly

Leanne Tyler

Kate McKeever

Siobhan Muir

Tamara McHatton

J.M. Madden


Venue

Nashville Airport Marriott

600 North Marriott Drive

Nashville, TN 37214

(615) 889-9300


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This will be my third year attending the Weekend with the Authors and I will tell you I had a FABULOUS time the last two years! We have some awesome panels, play hilarious games, have a fun themed party and the food is fabulous!


The luncheon is wonderful and you get an intimate chat with your favorite author at a table for a small group. I have met so many lovely people in Nashville and many lasting friendships. I can’t wait to go again this year- and I have a treat for YOU!


I have ONE reader ticket to give away! (meals not included, but you can upgrade) All you need to do to enter to win is comment on this post. “I want to party!” Random.org will select a winner!


I would love to see you ALL there- so please think about coming even if you don’t win a ticket. It’s well worth the price!


Hugs,


Tamara


 


 




 



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Published on April 13, 2017 23:00

March 30, 2017

Update- Bear With Me

This title has become prophetic- as I have to ask you, my readers- Bear With Me. My hope for an April release of book 5 is lost. With my dad’s stroke and then his passing I lost weeks of writing time and unfortunately, I am still not writing…sorry guys, but my characters are on hiatus.


When I lost my mom I couldn’t write for almost two months afterward. I hope and pray I will recover more quickly this time, but for now- I opened the book on Monday, read the last few paragraphs I had written, and stared at the page. I know where the story line is going, but the words won’t come. My brain and my heart are just too numb.


My house is too quiet. I cry when I see sardines in the aisle of the grocery store. Last night was the series finale of Bones. Daddy loved that show. We watched re-runs of it together every day. I watched it alone last night and saved it to my DVR as save until I delete because I can’t bear to see it gone. All I could think while I watched the episode was, we should be watching this together, daddy. I’m watching for you, too.


Each day I clear out a few more things from the house, gradually erasing daddy’s day to day presence from our lives. But his empty chair sits and mocks me, and each time the bright red cardinal comes to the bird feeder outside my front window, I stop and say. “There he is, daddy.” Because every day daddy would point him out to me, always so happy to see the bright little creature.


So, once again I ask you, Bear With Me. I promise I will finish this book as soon as I am able to give it the attention it deserves.


Hugs to you all. Tell the people you love you love them today. Tomorrow is not a promise, today is a gift, that’s why they call it the present.


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Published on March 30, 2017 22:23

March 28, 2017

Chicken Enchiladas with Luiz

Chicken Enchiladas



4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 onion, chopped
1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chile peppers
1 (14.5 ounce) can stewed tomatoes
12 small chile peppers, diced (optional)
1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup


1 (14.5 ounce) can chicken broth
1 bunch green onions, chopped
1/2 pint heavy cream



Heavy Cream






6 (6 inch) corn tortillas
3 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
1 (10 ounce) can enchilada sauce
 


Cut chicken breasts into 1 inch strips. Place in a medium bowl with desired marinade, and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Saute chicken and onions until chicken is evenly brown. Stir in diced tomatoes with green chile peppers, stewed tomatoes, chile peppers, soup and broth. Bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat, cover skillet, and simmer for 20 to 30 minutes, or until chicken is no longer pink and juices run clear.
Remove chicken from skillet, and shred when cool enough to handle. Meanwhile, allow skillet mixture to simmer and reduce to about 2 1/4 cups. In a medium bowl, combine shredded chicken and about 1/4 cup skillet mixture (just enough to make a paste like mixture). Mix together with half the chopped green onions. Pour remaining 2 cups of skillet mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
In a second skillet, heat cream over low heat, being careful not to boil. Dip tortillas in the warm cream to soften and coat. Spoon about 1/3 cup chicken mixture onto each tortilla. Top chicken mixture with half the shredded cheese, and roll up tortillas. Place rolled tortillas in baking dish, seam side down, and drizzle with enchilada sauce. Cover with remaining shredded cheese, and sprinkle remaining chopped green onion over cheese. Bake uncovered in preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbling.



 


Recipe compliments of http://allrecipes.com/recipe/8966/gerrys-chicken-enchiladas/


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Changing Perspectives:


Angelina Montgomery’s biggest worries were graduating her Master’s degree program and finding time for a social life. The voluptuous brunette crooned sweet love songs to the crowds of the Cowboy Saloon every weekend, but hadn’t been on a date in almost a year. When flowers and gifts started arriving at her door from a secret admirer she was initially flattered. But when her car was broken into that inclination changed to fear.


Retired Army Ranger Luiz Hernandez was one of Omega Team’s top agents. His Cuban heritage and scared visage made him the perfect man to infiltrate South American drug cartels. So why the hell were Grey and Athena sending him to babysit a co-ed with a stalker? He didn’t want the assignment, but he would do his duty.


That duty changed when he set eyes on Angelina, and he had a new mission…capture her heart.


Nothing would stand in the way of a Ranger and his goal. Not age, emotional baggage, and certainly not a mad man hiding in the shadows.


http://amzn.to/2ahi432


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He placed a call to Rico, asking him to pick up supplies at the store on the way to the apartment. Luiz would cook her a special dinner tonight. Angelina had been working on a paper for American Lit all afternoon. He stole up behind her at the computer. A glass of her favorite blackberry merlot in his hand. He had already run a bath for her and lit scented candles all around the bathroom.


He slid the hand with the glass of wine around her shoulder and waved it under her nose. “Look what I have for you, pequeña. You have worked long enough. It’s time for a break.”


She leaned back in her chair, resting her head against his abdomen. “Oh, that looks divine. Thank you.” She reached to take the glass, but he held it out of reach.


“No, you must follow me to get your prize.”


She looked over her shoulder at him. “What are you talking about?”


“Come with me and see,” he said, quirking a finger.


Angelina looked at him quizzically, but took the hand he offered and rose to follow him. He led her to the bathroom and opened the door. She gasped when she saw the room lit only by the soft glow of candle light.


“Oh Luiz, You did this for me?”


He kissed her forehead. “I did. I want you to have a nice long soak and when you get out we will have dinner. I am cooking for you. My abuela’s enchiladas.”


She snuggled against him and lay her head on his chest. “This is the nicest thing anyone has ever done for me. Thank you,” she whispered.


“Your robe is hanging on the back of the door. Put it on when you get out. I’ll be waiting.”


“What about Rico?” she asked, looking up at him, her pupils dilated with desire.


“Rico is patrolling the perimeter of the property.”


“Oh really?” she said with a seductive smile. “You could join me in the tub.”


“Don’t tempt me, bonita. I have enchiladas to prepare.” He turned her toward the tub and swatted her tush. “Now go. Take your bath.”


She saluted. “Yes, sir.”


“Oh, baby, you don’t know how hard you make me when you say those words. Damn.” He adjusted himself in his slacks and shook his head. “I’m going now or I won’t be able to leave.”


Luiz turned on his heel and headed for the kitchen. All the while picturing Angelina naked in the silky bath water. It would be a miracle if he didn’t burn the enchiladas. He could probably cook them just from the heat coming off his body.


Luiz searched the drawers and cabinets, finding a lovely lace tablecloth and taper candles to adorn the small kitchen table. He even found linen napkins. He had just put the finishing touches on the table when Angelina swept into the room in a cloud of vanilla and honey scent.


“Perfect timing, my lady,” he said pulling a chair out for her. “I’m ready to pull the enchiladas out of the oven right now. Please be seated.” He kissed her neck as she took her seat. “You smell better than the food. I could eat you up.” He watched the blush crawl up her cheeks as she dipped her head.


“Thank you, but the food smells marvelous.”


“I hope I did my abuela justice,” he teased. Luiz pulled the casserole from the oven and placed it on a trivet in the center of the table. “More wine, pequeña?”


“That would be lovely. Thank you.”


He poured them each a glass and then served the enchiladas. Luiz watched her take the first bite. She closed her eyes and savored the flavor, a look of bliss crossing her face. His dick swelled in his pants when a moan escaped her lips.


“Oh my God, Luiz this is fabulous! I can’t believe you can cook like this. I may just have to keep you.”


His heart swelled at her words and when their eyes met she looked shocked at what she’d said. He, however, stared straight into her eyes. “That might be arranged,” he said, the look of astonishment in her eyes almost made him laugh.


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Published on March 28, 2017 23:00

March 24, 2017