Category Archives: Book Review

Guest Post – The Captain’s Bluestocking Mistress

12 Thursday Mar 2015

Posted by in Blog Tour, Book Review, Sneak Peek

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A few days ago you might have checked out my review for Erica Ridley’s newest (link below), so I’m thrilled that she stopped by today to answer a few questions.

*****

What do you like the most (and least) about writing romances?

I love writing romance because it gives me the freedom to put complex characters in impossible situations and help them find love anyway. The hardest part about writing regency romances in particular is the constraints of historical accuracy. I research what they’re wearing, what they’re eating, what’s happening in the world during the dates of the story, money, travel, legalities, and whether the words I use existed in the time period. It’s impossible to catch everything, but I spend hours poring over every page. Attention to detail is simultaneously the best and worst thing about writing historical romance.

What is your favorite romantic story?

I’m not sure I can pick a single book, but I can pick an author. Some of the first historical romances I ever owned were written by Julie Garwood, and I bet I read every one of them at least six times. The heroes were strong, determined, and very alpha, and the heroines were just as strong and determined, and never failed to drive the heroes batty until they ended up in love. I really enjoy stories with humor.

If you could be any romantic character, who would it be and why?

It may not strictly be a romance, but I loved the hero in Anne Rice’s The Mummy: Ramses the Damned. Ramses was an Egyptian pharaoh cursed with immortality, entombed, and forgotten… until he awoke in the heroine’s parlor in Edwardian London. So I guess my answer is that I want to be Julie, so I could spend some serious quality time with that fascinating hero.

Which of your characters/books was the most fun to write? 

Oh, man. That’s a hard call. I had an absolute blast writing Amelia and Benedict in The Viscount’s Christmas Temptation. Their banter was fast-paced and fun throughout the whole book. In The Captain’s Bluestocking Mistress, the eponymous captain is more the strong, silent sort, but Jane–the heroine–is an absolute riot. I loved her from the moment she walked onstage in The Earl’s Defiant Wallflower. Getting my strong, angsty army captain snowbound with spinster Jane and her demon cat serves up plenty of wacky fun!

If you weren’t a writer and could be anything you want, what would it be?

I love to travel, and I love languages, so my non-writer dream job would be traveling the world, learning and teaching other languages. I have a friend who was born in Italy, studied in Spain, then moved to the United States, and now teaches French. My kind of lady! I would happily be a fry cook, if it included travel around the globe. 😉

*****

cover60841-mediumThe Captain’s Bluestocking Mistress

Dukes of War series

by Erica Ridley

Blurb:

Enjoy the witty, emotional second book in USA Today bestselling author Erica Ridley’s new Dukes of War regency romance series!

Captain Xavier Grey’s body is back amongst the beau monde, but his mind cannot break free from the horrors of war. His friends try to help him find peace. He knows he doesn’t deserve it. Just like he doesn’t deserve the attentions of the sultry bluestocking intent on seducing him into bed…

Spinster Jane Downing wants off the shelf and into the arms of a hot-blooded man. Specifically, the dark and dangerous Captain Grey. She may not be destined to be his wife, but nothing will stop her from being his mistress. She could quote classical Greek by the age of four. How hard can it be to learn the language of love?

Dukes of War romance books in Series Order:

#0.5 The Viscount’s Christmas Temptation  Nov. 2014

#1 The Earl’s Defiant Wallflower   Dec. 2014

#2 The Captain’s Bluestocking Mistress  Mar. 2015

#3 The Major’s Faux Fiancée    Jun. 2015

*****

Excerpt:

In this scene, Captain Grey has rejected Miss Downing’s offer to become his mistress—and her assertion that he is a hero. He doesn’t feel like one, and believes sending her home with her virginity intact will be the first step toward becoming a better man. However, the two are snowbound in his remote cottage for the foreseeable future, and Jane isn’t willing to give up the hope of sparking something between them. She’s been invisible her entire life, and has finally found someone who truly sees her…

Captain Grey glared back at Jane in silence.

She lowered her voice. “War is terrible. I recognize that. But now it’s over. What happens next is up to you.”

He pushed to his feet and piled the dishes and silverware into a stack. “It’s not that simple, and we’re done talking about it.”

She gathered the cups and the teapot and followed him into the kitchen. “Of course it’s not simple. Did you know Major Blackpool was one of only two people who ever bothered to stand up to dance with me at a ball? That moment will literally never happen again. He no longer attends balls at all. He’s missing a leg. From what I understand, he can barely walk and shall never dance again. But his life isn’t over.”

Captain Grey submerged the plates into a bucket of water and pushed it out of her reach. “Who was the other man you danced with?”

“My brother. Why won’t you let me wash the dishes?”

“Scullery work is hard on the skin, and you have pretty hands.” He began to scrub the first plate. “Blackpool is a hero. I am not. You’d do well to remember that. It would be the height of foolishness to trust a man who doesn’t trust himself.”

She shook her head. “Fighting for innocents and defending your country is inherently heroic. I believe in you. Closing yourself off won’t change that. No matter what you do, your heroism will always—”

He grabbed her face with wet hands and closed his mouth over hers with bruising force. No doubt he expected her to swoon, or slap him, or some other such nonsense.

She gripped his arms and held on tight.

His lips were wide and firm. The rough hands cradling her face dripped with water, but all she felt was warm. Desired. He was holding her in place as if he never wanted to let her go. Hope soared within her. She pressed herself even closer and let her eyes flutter closed.

Even through his clothes, the muscles of his arms were tight and firm beneath her ungloved hands. What would it be like to feel them wrapped around her? Would he hold her close with the same desperate passion that had begun this kiss? Or would his embrace be tender, as his lips were now, brushing against hers with gentle insistence?

As he suckled her lower lip, her mouth parted—not in surprise, but in eagerness. Just because it was her first kiss didn’t mean she was ignorant of what pleasures it might bring. She rose on her toes to meet him.

She had researched the matter extensively, and was delighted to discover that he had been right about book knowledge failing to communicate the complete picture. No mere words on parchment could remotely convey the heat and immediacy and… dizziness of having his mouth mold to hers. The heady sensation of need and shared desire.

Being kissed was more than she’d ever imagined. Being kissed by him was more than she’d ever dreamed.

Her fingers trembled—her entire body trembled—and she clutched his neck with abandon. She could no longer stand. She couldn’t feel her legs, her knees, anything except her mouth on his and their bodies cleaving together. The rest of the world melted away. It was as if she’d been waiting for this moment, this man, all of her life.

She licked at his lower lip and thrilled when a raw groan escaped his throat. Her heart hammered against her ribs, pushing her bosom against his chest with every staccato beat. All she could think was that she never wanted their kiss to end. This was heaven.

His tongue met hers and a delicious shiver shot down her spine, electrifying her skin. He tasted of tea, but also of a spice she could not define. He tasted of virile man, she supposed. Of Captain Xavier Grey. Everything about him was strong and sure and masculine and completely irresistible. She wanted to be his. She wanted him to be hers.

Her knees weakened. He felt like home and danger and hope all wrapped into one. Her breath escaped in tiny bursts when she remembered to breathe at all. He didn’t just make her feel desirable. He proved with every consuming kiss, with the thundering of his own heart against hers, that his desire for her was powerful enough to devour them both.

She was already lost.

He pulled away, gasping, and ran a shaking hand through his hair.

It was all she could do not to sway right back into his embrace.

“Was that heroic?” he rasped. “Or was it a selfish man doing what selfish men do?”

She gazed back at him in wonder. Her lips were tender from his kiss. “It was beautiful.”

“It was foolish.” He turned back to the bucket and reached for the next dirty saucer. “It shan’t be repeated.”

*****

Check out my review here – https://romanticreadsandsuch.wordpress.com/2015/03/06/book-review-the-captains-bluestocking-mistress/

 *****

EricaRidleyAuthor Info:

Erica Ridley learned to read when she was three, which was about the same time she decided to be a writer when she grew up.

Now, Erica is a USA Today best-selling author of historical romance novels. Her latest series, The Dukes of War, features roguish peers and dashing war heroes who return from battle only to be thrust into the splendor and madness of Regency England.
When not reading or writing romances, Erica can be found riding camels in Africa, ziplining through rainforests in Costa Rica, or getting hopelessly lost in the middle of Budapest.

Website: http://www.EricaRidley.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/EricaRidley 

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/EricaRidley

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/EricaRidley

*****

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Spotlight – The Ward Sisters

11 Wednesday Mar 2015

Posted by in Blog Tour, Book Review, Contest, Sneak Peek

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Check out a great series, full of family drama and romantic upheaval … I’ve only made it thru the first two so far (and I share what I think below) but I can’t wait to read the others!

*****

Ward Sisters - Box Set CoverWard Sisters Books 1-4

by Lucy Gage

Ward Sisters Series

Release Date: January 12, 2015

Blurb:

Back to December (Ward Sisters, #1)

Only One (Ward Sisters, #2)

Right Here Waiting (Ward Sisters, #3)

This Year’s Love (Ward Sisters, #4)

Bonus Content

Welcome to the world of the Ward Sisters, Emily, Anne and Charlotte. Get to know them, their friends and the new people who have come into their lives.

Start with Emily’s story, Back to December, where you’ll meet the oldest Ward daughter, and the movie star, Rob Deacon, who sweeps her off her feet.

Then, in Only One, you’ll get to know Emily’s bodyguard, Liam Neely, who happens to be Rob’s best friend. You’ll also meet Jenna Ackerman, Rob’s assistant and his other best friend, the woman with whom playboy Liam falls in love.

In Right Here Waiting, you’ll learn about Emily’s lifelong best friend, Meghan Miles, and meet the soldier who steals her heart, Captain Neil Murphy.

And then, in This Year’s Love, you’ll hear middle sister Annie Ward’s story of how she fell for her sister’s ex-boyfriend, Josh Ricker.

Additional glimpses into the lives of these characters – in the form of deleted scenes which didn’t make it into the published narrative – are included at the end of each story. For any fans of the series, these are peeks at the characters you won’t want to miss.

Amazon    Barnes&Noble    Kobo    iTunes

*****

Excerpts:

Ward Sisters - Book 1 Cover - Back To DecemberBack to December

Emily looked at Rob and couldn’t read what he was thinking. She could tell there was something on his mind, but she had no clue what it was.

“Care to share?” she asked, curious.

“Can I kiss you?” he replied, his voice steady.

Em was stunned. She didn’t know what to say. It had been over five years since she had been asked to be kissed. She nodded slowly, so as not to appear too eager, though she was, in fact, dying to kiss him. She had been looking at his mouth quite a bit these last few hours, and it always seemed so kissable.

Rob leaned toward her, and she met him halfway. That heady forest scent invaded her nostrils more thoroughly now and her brain swam. He looked at her with a sweet smile, just a little grin that said he was looking forward to this. She met his eyes and his smile with one of her own, though she suspected that, as soon as he’d asked, he’d known what her answer would be by the expression on her face.

His lips brushed against hers, gentle at first, with just a little bit of pressure. The gesture implied respect without stifling the desire that raced through Emily’s blood. Her skin heated and the dampness between her thighs, which had been present since dinner, bordered on embarrassing. How could she want someone so much from just a simple kiss?

 

Ward Sisters - Book 2 Cover - Only OneOnly One

They walked back to the car, hand in hand, in an unusual silence. Jenna started to step around the car to the passenger’s side, and Liam tightened his grip on her hand so she couldn’t let go. Her expression said she was curious as he drew her toward him and leaned against the car hood. She let him guide her until her body was pressed against his and their faces were inches apart.

His heart raced again, which Liam found odd – he hadn’t felt nervous before he kissed a girl since junior high. Swallowing hard, he brushed the hair from her face like he’d done earlier. Her breath hitched, and he knew she wanted him to kiss her as much as he wanted to do it. He looked at her mouth, then into her eyes. They leaned in at the same time, crushing their lips together in a long-overdue kiss.

Heat rushed through his body and his dick hardened before she even slid her tongue into his mouth. As their tongues danced, one hand found her ass and pulled her pelvis to his, while the other threaded into her hair, bringing her mouth closer, and deepening the kiss. She whimpered and gripped his neck.

The kiss lasted a few minutes and then they needed air. They leaned apart, touched foreheads, their breath labored.

“Wow,” Jenna whispered.

“Yeah. I agree,” Liam said.

Outdoor portrait of a very handsome young manRight Here Waiting

Meghan stared back at him as intently. Finally, she said, “What’s going on here, Neil?”

“What do you mean?

“This. What’s happening between us? Am I reading you wrong? Are you not interested in me?”

Neil couldn’t let her think that. No. Never. He’d wanted her for too long to let her ever believe he wasn’t interested, even for a moment. He pulled back, stood still and looked at her. He looked at her mouth. He wanted to kiss her, but if he waited until they were alone, she might give up on him. Danny was right, he had to stop sabotaging this.

Neil threaded his hands in her sun-kissed hair. In her eyes, he saw a desire to kiss him as powerful as his own. He leaned in, pressed his lips to hers and a wave of heat washed over him. Meghan leaned into the kiss, opening her lips, and as he slid his tongue into her mouth, Neil had to use every ounce of restraint his military training had afforded him to keep it from getting indecent.

Meghan pulled away and saved Neil from himself.

A pair of campers with a tent set against a beautiful sunset lake landscapeThis Year’s Love

“Are you okay?” she asked.

He nodded slowly and swallowed.

“Uh huh,” he muttered.

His dilated pupils said he liked what he saw. She grinned. In two strides of his long legs, he was right next to her and it was Annie’s turn to gasp – he towered over her.

He looked at her, shook his head, then he crushed her to his body, his face a breath away. She opened her mouth and his tongue plunged inside. Unlike the other morning, he knew this was her and not Em. Yet, he kissed her with even more passion, stealing her air.

Before she knew what was happening, he lifted her off the ground, wrapped her legs around his waist and carried her to the bed. They collapsed onto the mattress, and when his pelvis pressed into her core, they moaned in unison.

“God, you’re beautiful,” he breathed around her lips.

*****

author lAuthor Info:

As a child, Lucy Gage relished time to use her imagination, whether it was playing with her siblings – dolls, cars and trucks, make believe, LEGOs – or reading a book. That still translates today, as she writes the stories bouncing through her head, or reads the work of others. Her two imaginative children play the same way she did in her youth and love to read. She considers this her greatest accomplishment to date.

Married for the past dozen years, she and her family live in rural Maine. When not at the keyboard, she most enjoys gardening, hiking, amateur photography, the beach, dancing, crafts, ice skating, snow shoeing, boating and of course, reading.

Facebook  Twitter  Google+  Goodreads  Pinterest

*****

Review:

(Because this is a box set of four stories, and I’ve only read the first two, I’m going to give my feelings as I read them so they are independent of each other.)

I really enjoyed the first book – Emily and Rob’s story.  It’s an interesting look at the celebrity life and the difficulties that arise when you bring someone in who isn’t used to it.  The characters are interesting (both the main and supporting), with an immediate connection.  But both of them are insecure and when faced with a big issue, neither of them handles it very well.  I got a little frustrated at the two of them but I think the ending was sweet enough to make up for it.  Since all of the stories in the box set are in close proximity, both from a time and character perspective, it will be interesting to see them from other’s perspectives in later stories.

I absolutely LOVED Liam in the first story.  The friendship that he has with Emily is such a great part of her story and I was curious to see what it would take for him to find The One.   Having said that, unfortunately I didn’t like him as much when his story was finished.  Through the majority of his story I just wanted to smack him.  Granted he’s never been in a serious relationship but he’s old enough to know how this works.  One stupid decision after another on his part just frustrated me to no end.  Luckily I did like Jenna, at least through the majority of the story.  I totally see why she thinks the way she does about her relationship with him (see above stupid decisions) but it definitely goes downhill for me once they get together for good.  As much as I was looking forward to seeing Rob and Emily from someone else’s viewpoint, I didn’t enjoy where the story went.  Unless it comes into play in Book 3 or 4, I think we could have done without a lot of the soul-searching that was done.  I’m also not sure how I feel about the storyline going from present to the past & then working its way back to present, alternating between characters.  I can kinda see why, since we’ve seen some of this before with Book 1, but it was awkward at first.  Once I got into it though it flowed a lot better.  And, like with Rob & Emily’s story, the supporting characters help so much to make this a wonderful read.

I’m looking forward to giving Book 3 a shot – the story of Emily’s friend Meghan.  She played just a little role in Emily’s story (and hardly appeared at all in Neil’s) but I’m curious about her.  The little we’ve seen about her is intriguing.  And Book 4 is definitely on my radar – it gives the other side of Emily’s story and I’m curious to see more of what happened from Josh’s perspective.

*****

Giveaway:

5 Copies of the Ward Sisters Boxed Set (eCopies)

https://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/2cf664b41/

*****

Ward Sisters - Banner

Guest Post – Uniform Fetish

07 Saturday Mar 2015

Posted by in Blog Tour, Book Review, Contest

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Today we are going to look at a favorite for many people – MEN IN UNIFORM!  Check out everything below, including a little Q&A with fantabulous author Sandra Bunion and my own take on the series.  Happy Saturday!

*****
Uniform Fetish Tour Banner2

Uniform Fetish Anthologies

19 Authors – A lot of great Stories !

Does the sight of a cop’s badge—or his handcuffs—make your pulse race?  Do you drive by your local firehouse just to catch a glimpse of your favorite fireman? Ever peek in the cockpit just to check out the captain?

If you agree the only thing sexier than a man in uniform is a man out of uniform, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve handpicked an assortment of sizzling hot, uniformed heroes to satisfy your uniform fetish.

uniformantho1lUniform Fetish Authors

Cat’s Rescue by Doris O’Connor

To Serve and Protect by Sandra Bunino

Wilde Start by Susan Hayes

Person of Interest by Lila Shaw

A Passionate Witness by Moira Callahan

Always by Donina Lynn

Wings of Gold by Evie Knight

Unshakable Me by S.J. Maylee

Welcome Home, Jason by Wren Michaels

First Class by Meredith J. Scott

Buy Links:   Evernight   Amazon

mmuniformantho1l

Uniform Fetish Manlove Edition Authors

Rain and Promises by Elizabeth Monvey

Fine Dining by Nicola Cameron

The Layover by Gale Stanley

Scars by James Cox

A Walk on the Wild Side by Pelaam

Real Life Role Play by Tamsin Baker

Mile High Rebound by L.D. Blakeley

The British Are Coming by Lilith Duvalier

Fired Up by Lucy Felthouse

Buy Links Manlove Edition:   Evernight  Amazon

*****

Thanks for hosting the Uniform Fetish anthology blog tour, Romantic Reads! I’m thrilled my short story, To Serve and Protect, is in the wonderful collection.

~ Sandra Bunino

1)  What do you like most or least about writing romance.

It’s all about the HEA! Who doesn’t love a spectacular happily ever after? I also love creating sexy as sin heroes who are so in love they’d walk to the ends of the earth the women they adore. Oh, and the sex. I love writing a sizzling smexy scene.

2)  What is your favorite romantic story(movie/book, fact/fiction).

Hands down, Outlander by Diane Gabaldon. Jamie Fraser is my ultimate book boyfriend.

3) If you could be any romantic character, who would it be and why?

I’d give anything to be Claire Randall from Outlander, at least for a day or two. I’m not much for “roughing it” so I probably wouldn’t love living in the 18th century. However, I’d sacrifice for a few days and nights with Jamie.

*****

Author Info:

Sandra Bunino is a romance author of several novellas including The Satin Rose Experience series. Her first full-length novel, Colors of Us from the McAvery Brothers series, released in August. She makes her parents proud by putting her MBA degree to good use dreaming up heroes who resemble David Gandy whenever possible. When not staying up past her bedtime torturing her oh-so-sexy heroes, she can be found shopping for shoes or saving turtles.

As a social media junkie in need of a ten-step program, you can also follow her on Facebook, Twitter, and her new addiction, Pinterest. Sandra loves to read and chat with other readers, so she formed the Bunino’s Bookalicious Babes group on Facebook where they currently share their love of Jamie Fraser from Outlanders…and David Gandy, of course.

Website: http://sandrabunino.com

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5406952.Sandra_Bunino

Twitter: https://twitter.com/SandraBunino

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SandraBuninoAuthor

Bookalicious Babes Facebook Group:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/597429020306289/

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/sandrabunino/

*****

Review:

I loved how readers are given a delightful mix of stories, all centered around men in uniform.  Military, law enforcement, emergency personnel – you name it, I’m sure you can find a story that will meet your particular fetish.  Plus, since they are delivered from some of Evernight’s best, readers also get a nice mix of storylines – BDSM, suspense, contemporary.  Each one isn’t very long, but coming from Evernight it is a sensual treat.  And if M/M is your thing, they have a version to meet your needs as well. 

Since it is an anthology, none of the stories are very long and give up a little in character & plot development, but the authors are great at their jobs so they still give you enough detail that you feel connected to the characters and their adventure.  And being an Evernight book, I guarantee they are steamy enough to get you hot under the collar. 

Perfect for those days when you just need (or only have time) for a little break, the Uniform Fetish books will leave you very satisfied. 

*****

Giveaway:

$25 Evernight Gift Card

https://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/fdb586fd48/

*****

Uniform Fetish tour banner1

 

 

Book Review – The Captain’s Bluestocking Mistress

06 Friday Mar 2015

Posted by in Book Review

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cover60841-mediumEnjoy the witty, emotional second book in USA Today bestselling author Erica Ridley’s new Dukes of War regency romance series!

Captain Xavier Grey’s body is back amongst the beau monde, but his mind cannot break free from the horrors of war. His friends try to help him find peace. He knows he doesn’t deserve it. Just like he doesn’t deserve the attentions of the sultry bluestocking intent on seducing him into bed…

Spinster Jane Downing wants off the shelf and into the arms of a hot-blooded man. Specifically, the dark and dangerous Captain Grey. She may not be destined to be his wife, but nothing will stop her from being his mistress. She could quote classical Greek by the age of four. How hard can it be to learn the language of love?

I don’t think I’ve ready any of Ridley’s work (I know I haven’t read any of the Dukes of War books) and I have no idea why not.  They are fantastically written, with great flow and addictive characters.  The story just flew by and I absolutely could not put it down until I was done.

I love, love, LOVE Jane.  My only complaint in the entire book is that we got very little of her interactions with anyone but Xavier.  There is some in the beginning but I would have really enjoyed seeing more of her outrageous behavior with the Ton that ignores her.  She’s such an intriguing character that it would have been great to see her out and about more. 

With Xavier though she is a hoot.  She pokes at him just enough to get him riled; it’s so much fun seeing her try to seduce him.  And the glimpses we get into her character are priceless.  The surprises she leaves him when she goes home are just the perfect capsulation of what kind of person she is – subtle humor, but with a playful streak.  She’s smart, sassy, and sadly overlooked. 

Xavier came back from war with a lot of baggage, but a few days alone with Jane means that his darkest secrets and desires will be brought into the open.  As appealing as she is to readers, she’s even more so to him and closes quarters make her very hard to resist … but it sure is a blast to see him try 🙂

The reasons he’s trying to hide himself away are very emotional, as is his realization that he needs Jane in his life.  His internal battle after Jane leaves is great and I love how Ridley has him declare himself.  It fits so well with the characters she’s given her readers. 

Full of humor and heart, a devil cat and whimsical woodland creatures, a heroine looking to sin and a hero determined to honorably resist, The Captain’s Bluestocking Mistress is a historical romance that can’t be beat.  I highly recommend this book and I can’t wait to get my hands on the rest of the series.

Book Review – One Wish

28 Saturday Feb 2015

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cover58116-medium#1 New York Times bestselling author Robyn Carr delivers another smart, funny, emotional novel about the complexities of life in the small Oregon town of Thunder Point

Grace Dillon was a champion figure skater until she moved to Thunder Point to escape the ruthless world of fame and competition. And though she’s proud of the quiet, self-sufficient life she’s created running a successful flower shop, she knows something is missing. Her life could use a little excitement.

In a community where there are few eligible singles, high school teacher Troy Headly appoints himself Grace’s fun coach. When he suggests a little companionship with no strings attached, Grace is eager to take him up on his offer, and the two enjoy…getting to know each other.

But things get complicated when Grace’s past catches up with her, and she knows that’s not what Troy signed up for. Faced with losing her, Troy realizes Grace is more than just a friend with benefits. He’s determined to help her fight for the life she always wished for but never believed she could have—and maybe they can find real love along the way.

I have not hidden the fact that I love Carr’s Thunder Point series (see The Wanderer, The Newcomer, The Hero, The Chance, The Promise, and The Homecoming).  All of these books are full of real people with real issues – hopes, dreams, troubles and foibles – and One Wish is no different. 

I love the relationship that develops between Grace and Troy.  Though they start as friendly acquaintances, they quickly and easily move into something more.  Once again Carr captures the fluidity of real life, the ease of deepening feelings as time goes by.  But unlike the average person, Grace is keeping a pretty big secret – one that will have an impact on her relationship with Troy.  Captured beautifully, the way they figure out whether they can move on together is very touching and makes for a true Carr ending.

In addition to the fantastic main story, returning readers are also treated to an update on some of their past favorites, plus we get a sneak peek at the next story.  My favorite part is that it doesn’t feel forced and every time a new story comes out I feel like I’m coming home again, visiting old friends and making new ones. 

Emotional, full of warmth and heartbreak, offset with humor and fun, One Wish highlights why Thunder Point is one of my favorite places to visit.  I get giddy at just the notion of a new book and the fact that Carr usually releases at least three a year just makes me so darn happy. 

Book Review – Can’t Get Enough

20 Friday Feb 2015

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cover57067-mediumCan’t Get Enough

River Bend series

by Molly McLain

When life gives you lemons, find a former Marine with sexy abs to lick the lemonade from…

Tony Dunn’s panty-snatching bachelor life has been turned upside down—he now has custody of a daughter he didn’t even know he fathered. With his focus solely on doing right by his little girl, the last thing he needs is a sexy, totally distracting blonde showing up on his doorstep.

Nicole Hodges is in River Bend temporarily, to handle her grandmother’s estate and get the heck out of Dodge before her past catches up with her. Only problem is…she likes the quiet little town more than she expects, and she can’t resist overextending herself to help her built-like-a-bad-boy neighbor get his life back on track.

Tony and Nicole have different goals in mind, none of which include a relationship. But what harm could come from a little fun–the naked kind–if they both know the rules up front?

Warning: This book contains a sex-deprived single dad with a wicked tongue. Enough said.

Y’all need to take that warning seriously because Tony definitely knows what he’s doing …. and McLain isn’t afraid to let him do it.  Oh, and surprise surprise, I picked up another series after it starts – I’m so good at that 🙂 – although Can’t Get Enough can definitely stand on its own and everything wraps up nicely at the end.  But there are some sexy men and women who are just begging for a story of their own!

I will say that I don’t know that there is any man on earth who is as wonderful as Tony – he’s a dedicated father, a hard worker, and is amazingly sensitive to other people.  I don’t think he made a single misstep in the entire story, so I just had to add him to my fictional boyfriend list.  Caring and generous and sexy as all get out, I don’t think you’ll have any problem adding him to yours too!

Nicole has a few more problems – she’s trying to get back on her feet after a disastrous marriage and she’s just passing thru town so falling for Tony is a big no-no … but see the previous bit about Tony’s perfection and you know how hard that is going to be.  Together Nicole and Tony make a great pair, sassy and fun, although thanks to that disastrous marriage Nicole definitely has a hard time letting Tony all the way end.  But he handles it very well (perfect, remember?). 

I know that some people prefer a more PG story but if you are good with steamy scenes and coarse language, then I definitely recommend picking up Can’t Get Enough as soon as possible.  The romance itself is heartwarming and the characters are really loveable, you just have to be prepared to get a little hot under the collar 🙂

Book Review – Raindrops on Roses

16 Monday Feb 2015

Posted by in Blog Tour, Book Review, Contest, Sneak Peek

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Happy Monday!  We’re starting off with a book review (and we’ll see what the week brings).

*****

Raindrops on RosesRaindrops on Roses (Favorite Things Trilogy #1)

by Millenia Black

Genre: Contemporary Romance/Women’s Fiction

Age category: Adult

Release Date: November 18, 2014

Blurb:

What happens when the man you love falls in love with someone else?

Mayfair Island, Florida. Grief-stricken after the sudden loss of her beloved grandmother, an enduring but reclusive Hollywood icon, young Priscilla Bauer finds herself adrift and looking to find solace in the arms of her vast inheritance, when she meets the kind and considerate corporate brand designer, Michael Frost—a drop dead gorgeous beacon of light in her all too dark night.

Falling hard and falling fast, Priscilla has no idea she’s stepped into dangerous territory…Because someone else has already branded Michael Frost her very own—and she has no intention of ever letting him go.

Passions are high, but bitter vengeance gets even higher!

With Raindrops on Roses, the captivating Favorite Things Novella Trilogy—takes flight!

You can find Raindrops on Roses on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23443274-raindrops-on-roses

You can buy Raindrops on Roses here:

– Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Raindrops-Roses-Favorite-Things-Trilogy-ebook/dp/B00OSOF0AO

– Amazon paperback: http://www.amazon.com/Raindrops-Roses-Favorite-Things-Trilogy/dp/1502951495

– Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Raindrops-Roses-Favorite-Things-Trilogy-ebook/dp/B00OSOF0AO

– Amazon Uk paperback: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Raindrops-Roses-Favorite-Things-Trilogy/dp/1502951495

– Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/raindrops-on-roses-millenia-black/1120788676

– Kobo: http://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/ebook/raindrops-on-roses-book-one-of-the-favorite-things-trilogy

– Smashwords: http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/492380

You can watch the trailer for Raindrops on Roses on Youtube: http://youtu.be/hSrlJJUgef0

*****

Excerpt:

Walking into the bathroom, he went right up to the mirror and looked himself in the eye—and that’s when he knew.

It was already too late. Too late to try talking himself out of pursuing her. She had left him aching, craving much more of her company.

And although they had been together since high school, he didn’t feel this way about Amber—and now he could see that he never had. Raw and exciting passion was a definite first for Michael Frost.

But how did you break up with the girl you lived with? Did you just leave? And when would he tell her? Where would he go? And what if things didn’t work out with Priscilla Bauer—would he want to come back to Amber?

These questions strained him, but still they were no match for the unforgettable evening he’d had at Emerald Leas: The soulful music that had scored the occasion. The profound love she had clearly had for her grandmother. Her palpable grief. The formidable efforts she’d made to smile and graciously accept condolences from her guests.

Not to mention the unforgettable hours they had spent together in her bed.

Despite everything, Michael smiled ear-to-ear as he stepped into the shower reliving every moment. More than anything else in the world, he wanted to learn more about Priscilla Bauer and he wouldn’t let anything get in the way of that. The mere idea of seeing her again excited him and made him feel happier than he’d felt in years, since he was a young boy.

The pulsing hot water hitting his back felt amazing, almost therapeutic, so Michael stood under the spray longer than usual, allowing himself this time alone to think. He realized that he’d been feeling this change coming for over a year now—a vague unhappiness that meeting another woman had exposed, in high definition.

*****

Author Info:

No one does family and relationship drama quite like bestselling author Millenia Black! Heralded as a double life and relationship expert, she’s been a featured guest on radio shows across the country, discussing the 7 Smoke Signals Your Man is Living a Double Life.

A celebrated alumnus of Keiser University, Millenia lives in the State of Florida where she’s currently hard at work on BLUE SATIN SASHES, book two of the highly acclaimed Favorite Things Trilogy!

Currently unmarried, she’s never dated anyone living a double life…

She thinks.

You can find and contact Millenia here:

– Website: http://www.milleniablack.com

– Blog: http://milleniablack.blogspot.com

– Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/favoritethingstrilogy

– Twitter: https://twitter.com/MilleniaBlack

– Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/milleniab

– Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/milleniablack

– Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/user/milleniab

– Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Millenia-Black/e/B001ITX4M8

*****

Review:

I will give the warning that this is one of those series where things don’t end – I’m guessing that you’ll need to read all three books in order to get the complete story.  And while I really liked Priscilla (she’s smart and interesting), I didn’t like Michael much at all.  He cheats on his long-term, live-in girlfriend and then waffles around on telling her … continuing to lead Priscilla on while he figures out a way to break things off with Amber.  Now, Amber does go off the deep end when she finally finds out and the things she does to keep Michael are a little scary, but he definitely doesn’t do much to redeem himself.  I can kinda understand how he got in the situation, but he should have manned up a lot earlier than he did. 

Black is a fabulous writer though and I kept turning pages until I was done (luckily it is a short book 🙂), so I’m curious where she goes from here.  Hopefully Michael will have a chance to become that better man that Priscilla deserves. 

*****

Giveaway:

There is a tour wide giveaway for the blog tour of Raindrops on Roses.

– a 100$ amazon gift card

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/1000e4f193/

*****

This is my stop during the blog tour for Raindrops on Roses by Millenia Black. This blog tour is organized by Lola’s Blog Tours. The blog tour runs from 9 till 22 February, you can view the complete tour schedule on the website of Lola’s Blog Tours:

http://lolasblogtours.net/blog-tour-raindrops-on-roses-by-millenia-black/

Raindrops on Roses tour banner

Book Review – New Year’s Resolution: Romance!

05 Thursday Feb 2015

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Ncover55236-mediumew Year’s Resolution:  Romance!

Say Yes\No More Bad Girls\Just a Fling

Christie Ridgway, Leslie Kelly, Tanya Michaels

Midnight, January 1: time for a big change. Time to make a New Year’s resolution to find romance or else!

Say Yes by Christie Ridgway

Cautious florist Ashley Walker is excited to embark on her “Year of Yes” no matter what happens. But accepting a surprise job offer leads to an awkward discovery: she’s hot for her millionaire boss, Chase Bradley!

No More Bad Girls by Leslie Kelly

Scorched by a string of nightmare ex-girlfriends, Lex Rollins resolves to date only nice women then is lured by siren Lia before midnight! But Lia is really Amelia, a good girl playing naughty for a night. Can a blind date as their real selves uncover their true desires?

Just a Fling by Tanya Michaels

Shy, insecure Erin Cross makes two bold resolutions: (A) get on a plane, and (B) have a fling. In pursuit of Option A, she’s mistaken for a key witness in a mob trial and whisked away by a sexy FBI agent! Which just leaves Option B…

All three of these talented ladies are staples in the Harlequin world – with extensive booklists and expressive writing styles, they are some of the best at what they do.  And this New Year’s Resolution anthology just highlights why they are so loved. Each has her niche but they will all capture your attention and take you on an adventure.

Ridgway is a delight at penning contemporary romances with both humor and heart.  Her characters are detailed and complicated, with realistic troubles and foibles.  Ashley has been hiding from life but she’s decided it is time to start living again.  Unfortunately she isn’t prepared for the affect that Chase has on her.  Chase is a good man, kind and caring.  It’s easy to see why he attracts Ashley but is she willing to take a chance on him?  Even novella in length, Say Yes is a complete and emotional story.

Like Ridgway, Kelly writes delightfully addictive stories, with complex characters and fun storylines.  Both Lex and Amelia are fun and their cute-meet is absolutely adorable – I love the back-and-forth of the mistaken identity plot.  Kelly writes an amusing and likeable couple that you root for from page 1. 

Michaels writes some of the most fun action adventure romances that I’ve read, complete with danger and characters with great chemistry.  Even though she doesn’t have a lot of pages, with Just a Fling she still manages to deliver great suspense and a believable love story.  Erin and Foster are just too much fun together. 

Book Review – The Cowboy

04 Wednesday Feb 2015

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cover59037-mediumCarina Chapman wants a vacation. Somewhere hot. Somewhere decadent. Somewhere far, far away from her complicated life in New York. Somewhere in Australia appears to be the answer, until Carina discovers her PA has booked her into the wrong resort.

Cowboy Jake Richardson can cook a mean camp-oven roast, track wild horses, breed cattle and knows Australia’s rugged High Country like no other, but he needs to diversify if he wants to keep his land. Tourism seems like the answer, but his housekeeper just quit, the rooms aren’t ready and he doesn’t know a short black from a cappuccino.

Then his first guest arrives.

City slick Carina is smart, classy and disgruntled that her dreamy five-star retreat has been replaced by a rustic homestead beside the Barcoo Creek. Jake has seven days to convince Carina he can deliver all the items on her vacation checklist – including the five-step method to an everlasting relationship…

With him.

The Cowboy was novella length but still managed to fit in a lot of fun and emotion into a smaller book.  It wasn’t an overly deep story but it was entertaining and sweet, just what I wanted in a short contemporary romance.  Some might complain about the Aussie stereotypes or clichéd language, but I found it cute. 

Osborn did such a fantastic job describing Barcoo Creek and the Australian wilderness, I felt like I was along for the adventure with Carina – I’m ready to vacation at the resort and experience all of the beauty for myself.  Jake and Carina were fun together, throwing off sparks and laughter at the city slicker’s expense.  I did like that Carina decided to go with the flow, although her decision at the end was a little abrupt – but with a novella like this you want your happy ending and you only have so many pages to get there 🙂

For an amusing read, where you feel like you’re on vacation down under and maybe even falling in love a little with a rugged Aussie, give The Cowboy a shot.  With its shorter length and beautiful descriptions, highlighted by comedic fish-out-of-water moments and an endearing opposites-attract storyline, it is sure to please.

Book Review – Without You Here

03 Tuesday Feb 2015

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cover51663-mediumAfter fighting with her boyfriend, Ettie’s only goal is to drown her sorrows in some Jack Daniels. But when she walks into a country tavern, her attention is immediately redirected to the sexy, older man at the bar. He looks lonely, and sad, and absolutely mouth-watering. Ettie can’t wait to put a smile on his face.

For the first time in two years, Wyatt finds himself jolted out of his grief—and by a spunky, vivacious young woman who somehow sees right into his soul. What follows is a passionate weekend full of more life, laughter, and pure joy than he experienced in twenty years of marriage.

Wyatt thought one weekend was all he had to give, yet in the days that follow, he can’t help dreaming up a future with Ettie. And then a chance meeting shatters his hopes, leaving him more lost than ever. Now Ettie must decide whether to walk away, or to fight for the love she knows they both deserve.

Without You Here is the sexy, heartwarming story of overcoming grief, embracing love, and learning to live in the moment.

I’ll be honest, there were quite a few times when I wasn’t sure what I thought about this book.  There is a lot of emotional trauma for both Ettie and Wyatt, plus a pretty big age difference between the two.  And then Ashby throws them a pretty huge curveball and things get even more complicated.  The Jackson family is fantastic though and I think I want to be adopted by them.  They are supportive, kind and loving people.  Good strong farming stock, who care about the important things in life. 

Wyatt has been having an extremely tough go since his wife died and they have no idea what to do.  Thanks to some time spent with Ettie, Wyatt is starting to look more like his old self.  But, something that I truly appreciate, she isn’t going to save him.  He needs to do that himself but, along with his family, she helps give him that wakeup call that he has to have in order to get the help he needs. 

It’s an emotional rollercoaster for all of them and one that I’m not sure everyone will like.  But I will say when I put it down I was extremely glad I’d picked it up.