The Streets of Florence 3 1/2 Flags from Euro Reviews

Anthony and Christine have had an on-again, off-again love affair for the past twenty years. The first time that they saw each other, their connection was immediate and intense. Each time they’re together though, Christine always finds a reason to leave and Anthony is tired of having his heart broken. When he’s given the opportunity to be the one way to walk away for the last time, he doesn’t know if he has the strength to do it. When he discovers Christine’s secret, he’s determined to help her but will it be enough to keep them together or will it once again, tear them apart?

The Streets of Florence is well written and the love scenes are really hot. Since Christine kept on running away from Anthony, I feel that it would have added a lot to the story if we had known why. Having said that, the internal as well as the external conflict between Christine and Anthony added a lot of depth to their story and fueled the intensity of their passion. I would have rated this story higher but at the end, Christine's lukewarm admission of love didn’t leave me feeling that this story had a really happily-ever-after.

The Streets of Florence 5-Ribbon Review

5 Ribbons from Romance Junkies

Anthony was in Florence on business when he found Christine. They had been running into each other at different places but he had heard that she was in Italy and was hoping to see her. They had a history together and he cared about her very much. So much he was willing to risk his job for a night with her. She was so beautiful and he couldn’t get her out of his mind. Anthony missed the wonderful sex that they had and he also missed Christine. There was something about her that he couldn’t get out of his head and heart. Could he be in love with her?

Christine was visiting Florence when she ran into Anthony. She was glad to see him but not surprised that they had met again. She was down on her luck but didn’t want charity from anyone, especially Anthony. She cared too much for him and didn’t want him hurt. They had a history together and she wanted to keep that memory forever. Whenever they met they had mind blowing sex and she knew in her heart that it was more than the sex. What they had was special between two people but she was afraid to commit to anything.



Anthony and Christine were meant to be together but the years of just passing each other for a quick roll was too much for either of them to forget. Would Anthony help Christine when she was in need and would Christine let Anthony help her? Would these two find the love that was buried deep in their hearts and find happiness?



Pepper Espinoza has written a great story of long-lasting love. Anthony still cared about Christine even if they only saw each other in passing and Christine was happy to see Anthony whenever they did meet. I was enchanted with this story and had a hard time putting it down. It moved me the way that Anthony gave up on Christine only to have her re-enter his life. He never gave up on his love for her. She was always on his mind. I was hoping that each of the characters would find each other and realize that they belonged together. THE STREETS OF FLORENCE will give you hope of finding that long-lasting love that everyone is looking for. Ms. Espinoza, I love your books and I am looking forward to reading more of them in the future.

The Zebra Wore Blue Jeans & The Zebra Wore Black Leather

4 Stars from Euro-Reviews

One morning Aden, a law student, appears on Kevin's doorstep, answering the ad for a nude model. Chemistry boils and churns between them as Kevin paints sexy man's portrait. Who is Tamara to Aden, Kevin wonders. She invites him to stay with them for the night, as a threesome, but he refuses and leaves wanting only Aden. Kevin contemplates Aden's relationship with the woman.

Penniless and homeless, Aden stays at Kevin's apartment as finals near. Kevin learns the truth about Aden and Tamara's relationship. Aden wants Kevin and vice versa. What inspires Kevin months later, regarding Aden's posing for him that evening?

Both stories combined and gave me a light and enjoyable read. The author succeeded in making me care about her likeable and believable characters.Their thoughts and actions brought the story to three dimensional life. The well-written, easy-to-read scenes in and out of the bedroom riveted my attention. Aden and Kevin will live on in my memory. Great job Pepper Espinoza on The Zebra Wore Blue Jeans and The Zebra Wore Black Leather . I will be looking for more stories of this nature that are penned by Pepper.

"The Pumpkin House" Ecata Romance Review

4 Stars

Peter Gourd is a man with everything, a woman he loves and one who loves him, or so he thought. When he receives an email from her with her version of a Dear John letter, he finds himself forced to do something to save his marriage. Peter hatches a plan to recapture his wife and her love but take an unexpected turn when his plans go awry. Can the Pumpkin House bring them back together and help them find their love again? Or are they both just prolonging the end?

The Pumpkin House showed the determination of a man intent on saving his ailing marriage and the steps he will take to win his wife back. When I started reading this book it was slow and I couldn't quite get into it but after a few pages I just couldn't stop reading. It drew me in and then delivered a remarkable story of two people that had lost their way in their relationship and worked at rebuilding what they had lost. This relationship had its trials and tribulations but in the end they discovered their love was what kept them together for so long. Pepper Espinoza is a new author for me and what I've read so far is amazing, not only that but she has penned a book that has characters that go through a rough patch but came out of it stronger and more in love than before because they have survived. It is also a book that will remain a keeper for me.

"I'll Come To You By Moonlight" 4 Angels from FAR

Bess was in love with a man that had no name except “The Highwayman.” She waited for him every night, listening for the sound of his horses clip, clop, clip, clop... Some times she was disappointed when he didn’t show. She first met him when he can into the inn that she lived in with her father. Bess knew that he was special, but also that he was a wanted man. She loved him anyway because he made her feel special and wanted. He promised her he would come for her and take her away real soon.

Bess was afraid that someone would find out and kill her lover. Her worst nightmare came true when Tim the Ostler, who worked for the inn, betrayed her and told the king’s men what he knew. Bess wanted to warn her lover that the King’s men were after him but didn’t know how. Could Bess warn him about the trap that was at the inn? She would save him in any possible way even if she had to give up her own life to do so.

Pepper Espinoza has written a twisted tale that will keep you reading until the story is finished. The plot was great and the characters are so real that they draw you into the story. You cheer Bess on and hate the ones that want to ruin her happiness. The sex scenes are hot and intense. Ms. Espinoza is a great author, and I will be looking forward to reading other books by her.



Reviewed by: Moonluster

5 Angels from Fallen Angel Reviews

FAR

Belle Sterling is single. That’s not to say she hasn’t seen any naked male bodies lately. Au contraire, her two sexy neighbors, Aden and Kevin, give her plenty of eye candy, strolling around dressed and undressed in their apartment with their blinds open. What female could resist looking at them? Certainly not Belle. Whilst Belle is very interested in them, she lacks the confidence to introduce herself. Plus, in her mind she is no match for either of them, physically speaking. They are stunning; she is, well...dumpy. It’s not until they return home from a trip that things start steaming up. They notice her looking into their apartment at them and put on a titillating show, then invite her over. Belle can hardly believe her luck. Sex with the pair is hot, but Belle soon wants more. The question is, is there any room for a permanent third in Aden and Kevin’s decade-old relationship?

If you don’t like ménage stories, then this one is not for you. Similarly, if you don’t go in for M/M or F/F/M sex scenes, you should stay away from this one. There are many M/M sexual encounters, as well as a F/F/M one, too. Sex scenes are varied and piping hot, and do include anal sex and double penetration. Now that I’ve gotten those warnings out of the way, I’ve got to tell you this is one fabulous book! The characters are all really well-developed and very likeable. Aden and Kevin are in an established relationship, occasionally having a female third partner, though not looking for anyone permanent. They have had their eye on Belle for some weeks, but have only now made their move. She is a great bed partner and accepts them both as they are. Neither Aden nor Kevin expected to want Belle for anything more than sex, and so are stunned when they realize she is coming to mean something to them. They are very resistant to changing the status quo, however – Kevin more so than Aden. When their professional and personal lives cross over, they have a big decision to make, but what? A number of plot twists keep the reader unknowing of what is going to happen from one scene to the next. The characters all face tough decisions and hardships. I am so happy I picked this one up. The Zebra Wore Fishnets is a great, unusual tale that will keep you reading and immersed in the plot, hoping for the best for this trio of lovers.


Reviewed by: Elizabeth

Naughty and Nice--5 Angels from Fallen Angels

Naughty and Nice is a great book that is sure to put you into the holiday spirit. These talented authors have woven together three diverse stories that compliment each other beautifully. This anthology has something for everyone and is sure to please.

Kissing Clause by Robin Danner – Alex Barrett has had a crush on Scott Clause for years and is finally ready to let him know how she feels about him. Scott is the golden boy at her father’s law firm, who had breezed through law school; Alex, is determined that tonight she will use her father’s annual Christmas party to her advantage in getting Scott to notice her as a woman.

Kissing Clause is a sensual tale that will have you wishing for cold winter nights and a hot partner. Robin Danner is a wonderful storyteller who has created smart and sexy characters along with spicy sex scenes that leave the reader wanting the story to never end.


Passenger Side by Pepper Espinoza – Rebecca Cooper has been working long hours to make extra cash for the upcoming holiday season and needs to ask for all the extra gigs she can get with the catering service she works for at night. When Rebecca calls into Star Parties and asks her boss Mike for extra work, he offers her a guaranteed job with a large bonus if she can chauffer around Jeff, the bartender that also works there. Rebecca doesn’t like Jeff and isn’t looking forward to spending any time with him, but cannot turn down the money that she will earn from this job or the charm that Jeff exudes.

Passenger Side is a hot and sexy read. This author knows how to turn up the heat with sexual tension and balances it with more than just sex. The characters in this story were vivid and passionate. I truly enjoyed watching Rebecca and Jeff circling one another while getting to know each other better. I was also thrilled by the touches of humor and sense of duty throughout this book.


Christmas Strangers by Lisa Marie – Rachel Morton is working at the Silver Spoon on Christmas Eve, wishing that she didn’t have to spend the holiday alone. While lost in her less than cheery thoughts, Rachel becomes aware of a man entering the empty diner. The man is dressed in designer clothes and seems distracted. When the man asks Rachel to join him at his table, she notices an envelope with the name Tyler Jennings on it and figures that is the stranger’s name. Rachel cannot think of a better way to pass the time than to sit with the handsome man.

Christmas Strangers is an emotional story of two strangers brought together in their desire to shed loneliness. This tale is well written with heart-warming and compelling characters that are realistic. Lisa Marie has done a great job with this story and is sure to have her readers believing in happy endings.


Reviewed by: Tammy

http://www.fallenangelreviews.com/2006/March/Tammy-NaughtyandNice.htm

Another good review

From Romance Junkies.

Belle Sterling never thought of herself as a voyeur. At least not until two sexy guys moved into the apartment across the alley from her. Now, Belle’s favorite pastime is spying on the two hotties. One night the boys not only put on an X-rated show for her, but they hold up a sign inviting her over. Belle accepts and has the night of her life. Only problem is, she wants more.

Aden Scott and Kevin Lane have been roommates and lovers for ten years. When they meet Belle, they quickly come to realize that they want her to be a part of their lives. Aden and Kevin have one rule, honesty, as long as everyone is honest, anything goes. When push comes to shove, are they willing to make room in their lives for Belle and will they play by their own rule?

Warning: This book is not for everyone. The lovemaking is very erotic and graphic. Not only does it contain scenes with multiple partners but there are also scenes with same sex partners. That said, this story is absolutely scorching. Belle, Aden and Kevin ignite this tale right from the start and the heat never falters.

These characters are not only titillating, but genuine. Pepper Espinoza has crafted her characters with human flaws, giving them an intensity and realism that makes them more believable. Belle is very insecure in her self image and unsure of her decisions. Once she gives her heart, she does so completely. Belle is willing to sacrifice to win a chance with her two lovers. Aden can be very sweet but self-involved. On the one hand, he is willing to go out of his way to help Belle. On the other hand, he may break her heart without even realizing what he has done until it is too late. Kevin is very ambitious, getting ahead at work means a lot to him. This can blind him to the more important things in his life. When it comes time to make a choice, Kevin follows his heart.

Mix these three together, throw in a slimy ex, and tack on some blow your mind erotic encounters and it adds up to a fast paced, mouth-watering jaunt. Ms Espinoza has written a risque tale that this reviewer thoroughly savored.

Another Good Review For Zebra

Good reviews make me happy :)

Title: The Zebra Wore Fishnets
Author: Pepper Espinoza
Publisher: Liquid Silver Books
Publisher URL: lsbooks.com
ISBN: 1-59578-181-1
Reviewer: Suni Farrar
Rating: 4/5 Stars
Heat level: O

Belle Sterling is a peeping Tomisina. Who can blame her with the very hot Aden and Kevin living across the street? Since, they parade in front of the open window, she tells herself it is ok to look. However, when they hold up a note that reads, “Come over-#19,” Belle is struck dumb. After, much internal debate she does just that and is greatly rewarded. Now, she wants in on their relationship but will Kevin and Aden make room for another?

Kevin and Aden have been together for over ten years. No matter whom they take in their beds, they always stay together. Now, with Belle in their lives, Kevin and Aden are on opposite teams. Can they survive the split?

If you are searching for a novel that incorporates complex yet interesting characters with a good plot and mind-blowing sexual encounters, then The Zebra Wore Fishnets is the novel for you. Aden’s personality was adventurous and lovable. He gave this story a breath of fresh air it needs. I laughed with him whereas I agonized with Belle. She was the tortured soul who was desperately searching for peace and happiness. I felt her frustration with life and wanted to throw things, because she did not. Kevin is a complicated character. It was hard to get a total grasp on his personality, but the one thing I knew for sure was his love for Aden. When the two men made love to each other without accompaniment, it was sensual and heartfelt. Even when they were angry at one another and had hot climactic sex, the love was evident. Getting involved with Belle did change their chemistry, but I felt it enhanced the experience instead of hampering it. All in all, I was satisfied with Ms. Espinoza presentation of The Zebra Wore Fishnets and would gladly read more from the author.

Last Friday, for the first time in my life, I sold a novel based on the first three chapters alone. To further sweeten the deal, it was the first novel I ever completed, 3 years ago. And even better, it was after a long series of rejections, which came down to "I liked the writing, I want to see more from you, but this just isn't going to work for me." I could have changed the main character--Jason wasn't a "romantic lead," and my heroine doesn't "tame" him, and he's still the basic asshole at the end, but an asshole with layers and emotions, just not tamed. I could have changed him. But then I would have had a different novel. A novel I didn't write and didn't want.

But it didn't come down to that. I've already signed the contract. Mad World will kick off Whiskey Creek Press Torrid's new line, Torrid Special Edition.

Pushing Through

My muse has been MIA throughout December--perhaps he was on Christmas vacation--and only recently graced me with his presense again. I appreciate that he returned, though it's been a bit of a struggle.

I've been pushing myself to write 20 pages/day since Friday. That means before I go to bed tonight, I should have a total of 60 pages--I'm seven pages short of that goal. But this time, it has nothing to do with my muse. I know exactly what I want to write.

This time, it's about the pressure.

Due to circumstances I'll elaborate on later, possibly, my current WIP could be my big break. I'm talking BIG PUBLISHER big break. I was numb, and then excited, and now I'm horrified. Absolutely horrified. The book sucks. I suck. I should crawl back under my rock...

I think.

It's really impossible to judge my own work. Basically, I write what I write, clean it up, do a bit of revising, and send it off, hoping for the best. I get support from my betas and my husband, and I must not be too awful, because things are going well for me.

So I'll get back to work. I'll just do what I do. Ultimately, I have no control over whether or not this book will be published. All I can do is submit the best book I have in me.

That's what I intend to do...

The Zebra Wore Fishnets Reviewed

I found this lovely 4 Cupid Review of The Zebra Wore Fishents.

Belle likes to spy on the male couple living in the apartment across from her. It's their own fault if they don't close the blinds, right?! One day they invite her over - and she accepts the invitation. How fast can something that was intended to be a one night stand with the hotties from across the street turn into something serious, and what are the chances of it lasting?

This book digs deeper than one would think at the first glance. Of course it's full of hot love scenes - no doubt about that - but it's also about the difficulties of how to make a ménage-à-trois work.

Kevin and Aden have been a couple for a decade, and the way their interaction with each other is portrayed makes it believable, too. It's not the first time they have tried a threesome, but it might very well be the first time they can make it last.

Belle is the outsider, who becomes a lover first, then a friend and a beloved later. In the beginning she is alone, if not lonely. She's still not quite over her ex and the damaged ego he left her with. Therefore, the attention she receives from Kevin and Aden does not only soothe her loneliness but also boosts her self respect.

Personally, I would have liked Belle to be a tougher character - I felt that she is too often too out of control. On the other hand she is very likable simply because of her insecurities and doubts - same with Kevin and Aden, who are both great, but have their good sides as well as their bad ones.

Altogether I can assure you that Ms. Espinoza has the talent to give the characters the depth to make this book more than just plain erotica.