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Anchored Hearts #1
Forbidden Kisses
When Navy pilot, Ethan Parker falls for the woman he met at a coffee shop, he knows she’s the one he’s waited his entire life for. She’s beautiful, sassy and smart. What he doesn’t know is she’s also in the Navy and her enlisted rank means a relationship with her could get him discharged from military service.
While on leave from teaching at a top Naval facility, Layla Matthews tumbles head over heels for the sexiest man she’s encountered in a long time. The fact that he can hold an intelligent conversation is an added bonus. Her world is turned upside down when she later discovers he’s a Navy lieutenant. Her senior officer. Definitely off-limits.
Continuing their relationship could ruin their military careers. Ending it would break both their hearts. Do they end their sizzling romance or keep it a secret... and pray no one finds out?
While on leave from teaching at a top Naval facility, Layla Matthews tumbles head over heels for the sexiest man she’s encountered in a long time. The fact that he can hold an intelligent conversation is an added bonus. Her world is turned upside down when she later discovers he’s a Navy lieutenant. Her senior officer. Definitely off-limits.
Continuing their relationship could ruin their military careers. Ending it would break both their hearts. Do they end their sizzling romance or keep it a secret... and pray no one finds out?
104 pages, Paperback
Published December 2, 2016
56 people are currently reading
1143 people want to read
About the author
Sha Renée
3 books115 followersSha Renée is a native New Yorker who joined the US Navy right after high school. She now lives in New Jersey where she creates stories on the pages where duty, honor and passion unite.
A true nature lover, Sha enjoys spending time outdoors, usually with a camera in her hands. She has a passion for motorcycles and sports cars and is a fan of auto racing, military air shows and The X Games – pretty much any high-speed activity involving wheels or wings.
She hates cooking, loves music and believes every day should include a cup of hot coffee and a glass of chilled wine.
A true nature lover, Sha enjoys spending time outdoors, usually with a camera in her hands. She has a passion for motorcycles and sports cars and is a fan of auto racing, military air shows and The X Games – pretty much any high-speed activity involving wheels or wings.
She hates cooking, loves music and believes every day should include a cup of hot coffee and a glass of chilled wine.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
June 30, 2017
Title: Forbidden Kisses
Series: Anchored Hearts Series, Book 1 - Novella
Author: Sha Renee
Genre: Contemporary Military Romance
Cliff Hanger: No
4 Stars
*This story is for mature audiences only. Contains explicit scenes and language intended for adults 18+
Synopsis:
When Navy pilot, Ethan Parker falls for the woman he met at a coffee shop, he knows she’s the one he’s waited his entire life for. She’s beautiful, sassy and smart. What he doesn’t know is she’s also in the Navy and her enlisted rank means a relationship with her could get him discharged from military service.
While on leave from teaching at a top Naval facility, Layla Matthews tumbles head over heels for the sexiest man she’s encountered in a long time. The fact that he can hold an intelligent conversation is an added bonus. Her world is turned upside down when she later discovers he’s a Navy lieutenant. Her senior officer. Definitely off-limits.
Continuing their relationship could ruin their careers. Ending it would break both their hearts. Do they walk away from the perfect love or keep their romance a secret and pray they don't get caught?
My Thoughts:
This is the first time I have read this author and it won’t be my last. This is a fast-paced short read, but the story is so well written that you get everything you need in this forbidden love story.
When Ethan and Layla met, they didn’t discuss their careers, they were only meeting on the weekends due to their work obligations, and they had better things to do with their time. So, once it was discovered that Ethan was her new boss and her superior officer (officers and enlisted can’t fraternize). This really caused them a lot of heartache because they would have to choose between the love of their lives, the one they have been waiting for or their military career.
The chemistry and feelings that they have for each other is palpable and all that they go through you feel right along with them. The passion, the heartache and all the questions that go into making life altering decisions.
I truly enjoyed every minute of this book and I highly recommend this forbidden romance!
ARC kindly provided by Enticing Journey Book Promotions for an honest review.
Series: Anchored Hearts Series, Book 1 - Novella
Author: Sha Renee
Genre: Contemporary Military Romance
Cliff Hanger: No
4 Stars
*This story is for mature audiences only. Contains explicit scenes and language intended for adults 18+
Synopsis:
When Navy pilot, Ethan Parker falls for the woman he met at a coffee shop, he knows she’s the one he’s waited his entire life for. She’s beautiful, sassy and smart. What he doesn’t know is she’s also in the Navy and her enlisted rank means a relationship with her could get him discharged from military service.
While on leave from teaching at a top Naval facility, Layla Matthews tumbles head over heels for the sexiest man she’s encountered in a long time. The fact that he can hold an intelligent conversation is an added bonus. Her world is turned upside down when she later discovers he’s a Navy lieutenant. Her senior officer. Definitely off-limits.
Continuing their relationship could ruin their careers. Ending it would break both their hearts. Do they walk away from the perfect love or keep their romance a secret and pray they don't get caught?
My Thoughts:
This is the first time I have read this author and it won’t be my last. This is a fast-paced short read, but the story is so well written that you get everything you need in this forbidden love story.
When Ethan and Layla met, they didn’t discuss their careers, they were only meeting on the weekends due to their work obligations, and they had better things to do with their time. So, once it was discovered that Ethan was her new boss and her superior officer (officers and enlisted can’t fraternize). This really caused them a lot of heartache because they would have to choose between the love of their lives, the one they have been waiting for or their military career.
The chemistry and feelings that they have for each other is palpable and all that they go through you feel right along with them. The passion, the heartache and all the questions that go into making life altering decisions.
I truly enjoyed every minute of this book and I highly recommend this forbidden romance!
ARC kindly provided by Enticing Journey Book Promotions for an honest review.
November 12, 2017
What's not to love? A military romance about star-crossed lovers who are forbidden to be together because her perfect guy outranks her in the armed forces. You feel the love, angst and heartbreak when they slowly realize that there's no way they can be together. Can they find a solution that works for both of them without sabotaging their careers?
June 29, 2017
Fast-paced, engaging story from beginning to end. Unknowingly, Ethan Parker and Layla Matthews had the odds stacked up against them from the beginning of their relationship. This couple's chemistry, physically and emotionally, is off the charts and they are definitely tailor made for one another. Unfortunately when the information about their day jobs is revealed, it sends them both on an emotional roller coaster ride. They know that they shouldn't be together because of their military ranks but that magnetic pull of falling in love makes it hard for either of them to let go of each other totally. Despite a close call that would have been devastating for their careers and the stress of their secret weekend getaways, a viable solution to their dilemma makes an appearance. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in this series as well as other books from this author. Happy Reading!
March 16, 2017
I loved reading this book! I found it to be a sweet, positive and uplifting romance. It's beautifully written and flows in a dreamy sort of way, so I hooked. I got so engaged with the characters I nearly missed my bus and train to work.
I know the author Sha Renee HOWEVER I was NOT asked to review this. I'm doing this because when I read it I loved it, and when I have strong feelings about books - I get on Goodreads to share!!!
So Layla and Ethan meet and get together without knowing each are in the military. When they find out about it, it spells doom for the young lovers and I really felt their pain. What really great about this novel is gripping suspense because they can't keep away from each other despite the high stakes and dire consequences for them if they caught in a relationship. There were certain times where I wanted to cover my eyes and scream, yell at them. There were also times were I was scared to turn the page....I can't say more without giving away the plot.
Overall It's a fantastic and engaging story and worth reading. Sha Renee is a born story teller so I'm looking forward to the sequel, and all the others books she has planned.
I know the author Sha Renee HOWEVER I was NOT asked to review this. I'm doing this because when I read it I loved it, and when I have strong feelings about books - I get on Goodreads to share!!!
So Layla and Ethan meet and get together without knowing each are in the military. When they find out about it, it spells doom for the young lovers and I really felt their pain. What really great about this novel is gripping suspense because they can't keep away from each other despite the high stakes and dire consequences for them if they caught in a relationship. There were certain times where I wanted to cover my eyes and scream, yell at them. There were also times were I was scared to turn the page....I can't say more without giving away the plot.
Overall It's a fantastic and engaging story and worth reading. Sha Renee is a born story teller so I'm looking forward to the sequel, and all the others books she has planned.
November 13, 2017
Short and sweet! Layla and Matthew meet in a coffee shop and the attraction is intense. They discuss everything except what they do for a living. When they discover that their relationship could cost them their lucrative careers, which they both love, their decision will be life-changing!
May 6, 2018
Sweet
This book was outstanding! It is a definite page turner. It makes you want to know what happens next. The characters are funny and they're so in love that you feel it through her writing. Very hot romance.
This book was outstanding! It is a definite page turner. It makes you want to know what happens next. The characters are funny and they're so in love that you feel it through her writing. Very hot romance.
May 2, 2018
Loved it
A sweet and short love story. Ethan and Layla were both attracted to each other and their love developed organically. I am really anticipating book two.
A sweet and short love story. Ethan and Layla were both attracted to each other and their love developed organically. I am really anticipating book two.
December 2, 2016
Short sexy read...which I thoroughy enjoyed
This is the first time that I have read anything of Sha Renee's and i really enjoyed it. I was a great book to curl up and read on a cool afternoon. The relationship between is hot and steamy and their attraction is instant.
Both have returned to town for different reasons, Layla to visit with her mother and Ethan to attend the funeral of his best friend. The two cross paths at the local coffee shop and BOOM - desire comes to the fore. A weekend at home turns into one hot, steamy time for this couple. Unable to let go of each other and the relationship that is growing between them, the agree to meet up every weekend, when their time is their own.
But this all comes crashing down on them when they meet up at work - they both realise that Ethan is Layla's new boss. Not that that is the problem - the problem lies in the fact that they aare both in the Navy and this is a serious "no no". What will happen to them? Will they call it quits? Or will they continue their illicit liaison?
An excellent book that I thoroughly enjoyed. I look forward to reading Sha Renee's next book.
FOUR STARS given
Reviewed Voluntarily for Reading Is Our Satisfaction Blog.
This is the first time that I have read anything of Sha Renee's and i really enjoyed it. I was a great book to curl up and read on a cool afternoon. The relationship between is hot and steamy and their attraction is instant.
Both have returned to town for different reasons, Layla to visit with her mother and Ethan to attend the funeral of his best friend. The two cross paths at the local coffee shop and BOOM - desire comes to the fore. A weekend at home turns into one hot, steamy time for this couple. Unable to let go of each other and the relationship that is growing between them, the agree to meet up every weekend, when their time is their own.
But this all comes crashing down on them when they meet up at work - they both realise that Ethan is Layla's new boss. Not that that is the problem - the problem lies in the fact that they aare both in the Navy and this is a serious "no no". What will happen to them? Will they call it quits? Or will they continue their illicit liaison?
An excellent book that I thoroughly enjoyed. I look forward to reading Sha Renee's next book.
FOUR STARS given
Reviewed Voluntarily for Reading Is Our Satisfaction Blog.
December 2, 2016
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Forbidden Kisses was a great 4 star read.
Layla meets Ethan while she was in town visiting her mother, Ethan was in town for his best friend's funeral. When these two meet there is an instant connection between them. They decide to meet later that night for a date.
As things move forward and they get closer, a huge twist sends them spiraling. Can these two make their relationship work?
I finally meet someone who’s intelligent, attractive, great in bed, absolutely perfect...and I can’t have him.
I really enjoyed this quick read. It didn’t feel rushed and you get everything you need to really enjoy Forbidden Kisses. I wouldn’t mind seeing more from these two. Sha Renee does a great job of pulling you in with her writing. Thank you for a great read.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. Reviewed by MAustin from Alpha Book Club
Forbidden Kisses was a great 4 star read.
Layla meets Ethan while she was in town visiting her mother, Ethan was in town for his best friend's funeral. When these two meet there is an instant connection between them. They decide to meet later that night for a date.
As things move forward and they get closer, a huge twist sends them spiraling. Can these two make their relationship work?
I finally meet someone who’s intelligent, attractive, great in bed, absolutely perfect...and I can’t have him.
I really enjoyed this quick read. It didn’t feel rushed and you get everything you need to really enjoy Forbidden Kisses. I wouldn’t mind seeing more from these two. Sha Renee does a great job of pulling you in with her writing. Thank you for a great read.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. Reviewed by MAustin from Alpha Book Club
March 23, 2017
Becky's 4 Star Review
Fast-paced and well-written, this is a pretty straight forward romance. The characters are easy to connect with and they're likable. The conflict is just enough to add that touch of drama, making for a quick, enjoyable read.
Fast-paced and well-written, this is a pretty straight forward romance. The characters are easy to connect with and they're likable. The conflict is just enough to add that touch of drama, making for a quick, enjoyable read.
November 13, 2017
Short and sweet! Layla and Matthew meet in a coffee shop and the attraction is intense. They discuss everything except what they do for a living. When they discover that their relationship could cost them their lucrative careers, which they both love, their decision will be life changing!
Read
August 31, 2017Love it
Such a sweet story, Eathan meet a beautiful lady at the coffee shop and it is almost love at first sight. By the time they realize that they both are in the navy it is to late. He is an officer, he is her boss. There is no way they can be together ,or is there.
Such a sweet story, Eathan meet a beautiful lady at the coffee shop and it is almost love at first sight. By the time they realize that they both are in the navy it is to late. He is an officer, he is her boss. There is no way they can be together ,or is there.
July 4, 2017
Great story!💓👏
Forbidden Kisses is great!😊 The characters chemistry is hot and they're a perfect match. Layla and Ethan are characters that made me care about them. Can't wait for their sequel!👏
Forbidden Kisses is great!😊 The characters chemistry is hot and they're a perfect match. Layla and Ethan are characters that made me care about them. Can't wait for their sequel!👏
October 9, 2017
THIS IS A FAST READ. I HAD A HARD TIME PUTTING IT DOWN. IT DEFINITELY DRAWS YOU IN.
November 10, 2018
I finished this book in less then a day! I couldn't put it down! This book kept interest from begining go end! Cant wait for the second!
April 1, 2017
I've been in love with Ethan and Layla for a very long time. I read this book from its inception and absolutely adore the changes that have been made to it since. Ethan is a guy that every woman dreams about. Sexy, sensitive, yet still has enough 'guy moments' to make him a believable character. And Layla is the girl you want to cheer for. She is Ethan's match in every way. Sexy, with enough of a stubborn streak to make her perfect for her leading man.
August 7, 2017
Sweet
A sweet forbidden illegal love. This story shows how if you want something enough you will find a way to make it happen.
A sweet forbidden illegal love. This story shows how if you want something enough you will find a way to make it happen.
February 25, 2018
Waiting Impatiently For Book 2
I. Need…Off Base, like, five minutes ago! You’re killing me here. Forbidden Kisses is aMAZing. I loved the pace, the premise, the chemistry, the desperation, the reunion…the teaser? Just WRONG ma’am, just wrong for that…hope Off Base fnds its way to being released THIS year. 😍👏👏👏👏👏 Bravo!
I. Need…Off Base, like, five minutes ago! You’re killing me here. Forbidden Kisses is aMAZing. I loved the pace, the premise, the chemistry, the desperation, the reunion…the teaser? Just WRONG ma’am, just wrong for that…hope Off Base fnds its way to being released THIS year. 😍👏👏👏👏👏 Bravo!
January 6, 2018
This book really stuck with me. I've found myself thinking about it in the weeks since I read it. The stakes are very high and we are not allowed to forget that. Renee does a good job of keeping us rooting for the protagonists even when they're not supposed to be rooting for themselves :) If you like military romances you should definitely read this one.
August 5, 2017
Good...
It was a good read. I enjoyed the characters in the book. They were well written and thought out. Military background was very realistic.
It was a good read. I enjoyed the characters in the book. They were well written and thought out. Military background was very realistic.
January 16, 2017
Fast-paced and well-written, this is a pretty straight forward romance. The characters are easy to connect with and they're likable. The conflict is just enough to add that touch of drama, making for a quick, enjoyable read.
December 29, 2017
This one those stories that guess where the storyline is going but it's so good to watch it that it's journey. It's a sweet and sexy story.
February 13, 2018
Excellent and entertaining IR Romance.
February 26, 2017
An officer and gentleman
I really liked this book. The love story has a unique problem to overcome, I've never read before.
The chemistry between the hero and heroine was hot, hot, hot.
I really liked this book. The love story has a unique problem to overcome, I've never read before.
The chemistry between the hero and heroine was hot, hot, hot.
June 6, 2018
A must read
Ethan is my hero. This story was about two people madly in love. I enjoyed reading every page. It is definitely a must read. I hope to read the sequel soon.
Ethan is my hero. This story was about two people madly in love. I enjoyed reading every page. It is definitely a must read. I hope to read the sequel soon.
December 29, 2020
When two naval officers unwittingly fall in love, their careers end up on the line. Watching these two people so deeply in love and yet trapped by the rules of their chosen careers is gut-wrenching and emotional. Sha Renee has created a hot, sexy story which draws in the reader and keeps you turning the pages. Can they make this impossible relationship work or will everything unravel in the end?
February 15, 2017
Quick fun
A quick lively read with characters you can care about. While Forbidden Kisses is the first in a series, it does stand alone with no real cliffhanger. That said, I look forward to reading about the progression of their love story.
Layla and Ethan meet while visiting another city where they quickly fall for each other without discussing their work which later could spell detriment to their blossoming relationship.
A quick lively read with characters you can care about. While Forbidden Kisses is the first in a series, it does stand alone with no real cliffhanger. That said, I look forward to reading about the progression of their love story.
Layla and Ethan meet while visiting another city where they quickly fall for each other without discussing their work which later could spell detriment to their blossoming relationship.
December 2, 2016
"I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book."
Ethan and Kayla’s attraction is what everyone looks or hopes for in love. As soon as their eyes met, there’s spark. Thank goodness for mixed up coffee drinks! They match each other’s wit, their drive to succeed and equivalent match of sexual prowess.
They’re wonderful weekend rendezvous is threatened when they both discover that Ethan is her superior. They’ve never indulge in what they do for living and it’s this discovery that has them breaking all the rules. They’ve been looking for this kind of connection all their lives but now it’s in danger of ending abruptly. Ethan considers himself a man of integrity. He doesn’t cheat, lie or steal. He’s not a rule breaker; rules are there for a reason and they need to be followed. Layla knows what they are doing is wrong but can’t find the strength to do what’s right. She wants to keep what they are doing secretly because she’s finally found the one who’s suppose to be in her life, so she can’t, not won’t, let go and hold on with all she has.
Unable to find a solution to their dilemma, Ethan has to decide if what’s more important, keeping his career that he’s worked so hard for all his life or keep loving the woman who is everything he’s ever hoped. How can he have both? It’s a wonderful, fast-paced story with a creative way to have HEA.
Ethan and Kayla’s attraction is what everyone looks or hopes for in love. As soon as their eyes met, there’s spark. Thank goodness for mixed up coffee drinks! They match each other’s wit, their drive to succeed and equivalent match of sexual prowess.
They’re wonderful weekend rendezvous is threatened when they both discover that Ethan is her superior. They’ve never indulge in what they do for living and it’s this discovery that has them breaking all the rules. They’ve been looking for this kind of connection all their lives but now it’s in danger of ending abruptly. Ethan considers himself a man of integrity. He doesn’t cheat, lie or steal. He’s not a rule breaker; rules are there for a reason and they need to be followed. Layla knows what they are doing is wrong but can’t find the strength to do what’s right. She wants to keep what they are doing secretly because she’s finally found the one who’s suppose to be in her life, so she can’t, not won’t, let go and hold on with all she has.
Unable to find a solution to their dilemma, Ethan has to decide if what’s more important, keeping his career that he’s worked so hard for all his life or keep loving the woman who is everything he’s ever hoped. How can he have both? It’s a wonderful, fast-paced story with a creative way to have HEA.
December 2, 2016
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Layla Matthews has an interesting first meeting with Ethan Parker. They’re very good at flirting with each other. It was interesting to watch an instant connection blossom into a relationship. Now the author could have left the story with the relationship building through the course of each chapter and I would have been a very happy camper. But being as creative as she is, she had to kick things up a notch and I wasn’t going anywhere.
Some may consider this a short read but in reading the story it certainly didn’t seem that way. No scenes were rushed and I didn’t feel as if I got short-changed in any way. I’ve never read any of Ms. Renée before and what a great introduction this was. She had me thinking about the movie An Officer and a Gentleman. Not really the story but I could certainly picture a young Richard Gere in the leading role. It’s a story about finding love amongst the bureaucracy of our armed forces. So this story does raise some interesting questions. And the only way to find out if any of them get answered is to read the book.
I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Layla Matthews has an interesting first meeting with Ethan Parker. They’re very good at flirting with each other. It was interesting to watch an instant connection blossom into a relationship. Now the author could have left the story with the relationship building through the course of each chapter and I would have been a very happy camper. But being as creative as she is, she had to kick things up a notch and I wasn’t going anywhere.
Some may consider this a short read but in reading the story it certainly didn’t seem that way. No scenes were rushed and I didn’t feel as if I got short-changed in any way. I’ve never read any of Ms. Renée before and what a great introduction this was. She had me thinking about the movie An Officer and a Gentleman. Not really the story but I could certainly picture a young Richard Gere in the leading role. It’s a story about finding love amongst the bureaucracy of our armed forces. So this story does raise some interesting questions. And the only way to find out if any of them get answered is to read the book.
I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
December 2, 2016
Amount of sex - 4 / 5
How explicit - 4 / 5
Romance - 4 / 5
OVERALL: 4 / 5
Forbidden Kisses is the first novel that I have read from author Sha Renée and I truly enjoyed this book’s sexy and forbidden love story. Layla and Ethan met at a coffee-house and are instantly attracted to each other. Their relationship grows and they become committed to each other rather quickly. Everything is going so well until Layla meets her new Lieutenant at the Naval Base. Surprisingly, the Lieutenant happens to be Ethan and they both ponder how they didn’t realize this! Can they continue their relationship when it is a crime to date a commanding officer? What will they do?
Forbidden Kisses’ story line is a fun and steamy book and I became engrossed very quickly. I totally recommend this story to anyone who enjoys a very steamy and forbidden love affair!
** Voluntarily reviewed from an advanced copy **
How explicit - 4 / 5
Romance - 4 / 5
OVERALL: 4 / 5
Forbidden Kisses is the first novel that I have read from author Sha Renée and I truly enjoyed this book’s sexy and forbidden love story. Layla and Ethan met at a coffee-house and are instantly attracted to each other. Their relationship grows and they become committed to each other rather quickly. Everything is going so well until Layla meets her new Lieutenant at the Naval Base. Surprisingly, the Lieutenant happens to be Ethan and they both ponder how they didn’t realize this! Can they continue their relationship when it is a crime to date a commanding officer? What will they do?
Forbidden Kisses’ story line is a fun and steamy book and I became engrossed very quickly. I totally recommend this story to anyone who enjoys a very steamy and forbidden love affair!
** Voluntarily reviewed from an advanced copy **
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews