Cheri Marie is an author, reader, event organizer and most importantly a fur-mama. She is a Florida girl, currently residing in beautiful North Carolina. A lover of animals, it’s no surprise that Cheri has what some would call, a zoo of animals. When she isn't writing stories that transport you to another world, or wearing one of her many hats, she enjoys photography and music. Also on her down time, she enjoys spending a day on the water, fishing with her brothers.
This is way overdue. I read Hearts of Steel months ago… it was FABULOUS! The cover is gorgeous, but the major win for this book is the collection of stories within its pages—each one is captivating in its own way. Almost every author in this anthology is a first time read for me…and each one of you gained a new fan! A huge thank you to each author who created worlds that swept me away, characters who I connected with, and stories that left me wishing they weren't over. Without further ado…
Snapshots & Lyrics – Cheri Marie "To Be Continued…" after Axel's arrival… I was like, "nooooooo!" I'm pretty sure that I massaged you at that point. I love, love, all of the potential you teased with in this story and I can't wait to see what lies ahead for Riann and Mr. Axel James. Interesting thing to note, I keep my medication in the cabinet by the fridge too…lol!
The Forge – Leigh Taylor Okay, holy hotness Mason Hunt! This super sexy D/s story had me turning the pages eagerly. I really felt their passion from the start—it's so good! I felt the emotion when Mason left Penelope with the paperwork… I was like, you can't let him leave, you can't! I loved that Penelope's dance for Mason was the turning point for them!
Saving Bowen – Desiree Lafawn Lady, this story! Marie and Bowen—gah! I love Marie! "I said what I meant, I'm not responsible for your misinterpretation of my words!" Love her! So, the letter had me scared the whole time. Then when he left her place… I was like, "don’t leave, go back, go back." Then after the bout I was like, oh yea! Then…. what?!? Surely there are more pages… I. WANT. MORE.
A Second Chance for Love – Alexis R. Craig Being the daughter of a steel worker, I found this story endearing. This sweet story of second chance romance is really touching. I love how Danny and Kelly, along with her boys, made a perfect family.
Eternal Steel Beginnings – Rexi Lake I was completely enrapt in this one! Lizzie and Eric and the entire paranormal aspect—I. LOVE. IT. You gained a major fan, woman! I was lost in Lizzie and Eric's world, and I can't wait to go back and see how their story unfolds!
That Night in Steel City – ChaShiree M. Lazaro and Stefahnee's instalove story is an erotic ride that burns up the pages for sure! I love the romance at the end when he shows up in Chicago! Then the epilogue…I loved their story!
Taking Chances – SK Marie I want to punch Adam—just sayin. I love Johnny and 'Thumper!' I don't know if this is it for their story, but this one will always have a special place in my heart.
Going Down – Abigail Lee Justice Who said thirteen wasn't lucky? I loved this spicy elevator tryst. I'm a huge fan of the office romance dynamic—especially in this case! The evolution of Mr. Asshole keeps a humorous edge to this erotic story! I loved it, lady.
Bargaining for More – Victoria Monroe I don't review my own writing.
Chasing Bren – Brandy Dorsch I crave "meant to be" love stories. Megan and Bren's story has everything I love. This story was a great read!
Glasse and Steele – Jen Talty I feel like a broken record, but I loved this story so much. I loved the dynamic between Veronica and Marshall. I loved the witty banter, I loved the one-night stand that turned into… well, I won't ruin it for anyone who hasn’t read it. The series of events was perfectly delightful! The ending (new beginning) was so good!
Dugout Fantasy – Tracy Kincaid Okay, Felix swept me off of my feet. The way he is with Eric… I can't even. I FLOVE Abby and Felix! I wanted this story to go on forever, but those pesky three words—to be continued—taunted me and left me aching for more, more, more. I can't wait for more…
Where There Is Smoak – Sidonia Rose This story entices and readers are lucky to be able to get more! I wasn't expecting this to be paranormal—but fire breathing… yeah, I need to find out about the Garrison Society in a hurry!
Unfinished Business – Ava Danielle The author captures the excitement of book signings perfectly. I could just feel Elizabeth's excitement seeing the authors she loves—then I saw my name! *eyes glisten* Then Elizabeth saw Oliver Evans (again)… whew! loved this sexy romance and, "No—it can't be the way they part."
The Cost of Imagination – Nicole Zoltack Enchanting. In a word, that is this story. The author has a knack for painting a mental picture so vivid the story plays out in your mind. The characters are dynamic and the settings take you away, and I loved going along for the ride.
Fire in the Burgh – Jamie Russell When? When will there be more? This story has it all! It's a very appetizing beginning to a story that will leave me wanting more, no matter what! Eli saving Lily and Jasmine is enough right there, then add to it an arson investigating fireman… oh geez! Harley and Eli's kiss… Gimme more!
Dominating Desires – JM Schalm This story just awakes the voyeur in me! Brian and Celeste's story is steamy and has the added bonus of Celeste stuffing her ex! Perfect!
Sweet Fire – M.A. Stone Thank goodness there's more coming for GiGi and Abel! This Rockstar romance has a lot to offer and I can't wait to read more! And Sugarlips, I love Sugarlips!
Jersey Love – Courtney Lynn Rose When one night, turns into forever… Adam and Suzette definitely have something in common despite fanning for rival teams. Their erotic instalove story steamed up my kindle!
Magical Moments – Julie Mishler This poem touched my heart from the first verse… "…I would wish for time to stop So this moment with you Would never have to end…" Thank you, I enjoyed every word.
The Locks – CJ Allison I love second chance romance and these characters fit this story so well. It's easy to get lost in their story and I did… the story was so good and ended perfectly… this is one that would leave me wanting more, no matter how long it was.
There it is. Just some thoughts on each story—each fabulous story. I hope all of you and your families are well. Thank you so much for these stories and I look so forward to reading more from each of you. My signed copy of Hearts of Steel has a special place in my heart, and in my home. Thank you all!