Spotlight – The Thing Is

25 Wednesday May 2016

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Sneak Peek

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If that adorable cover doesn’t get you interested, the great reviews sure will … and the excerpt that has me already holding my breath.

*****

The Thing Is

by Kathleen Gerard

ISBN-13: 978-1940215587

Publisher: RED ADEPT PUBLISHING http://redadeptpublishing.com/

Release Dates: E-book – Feb 9, 2016 / Paperback – March 9, 2016

Genre: Women’s Fiction/General Fiction/Romance (PG) /Romantic Comedy/Contemporary Fiction

Blurb:

Can a woman mired deep in the throes of grief have her heart and soul rallied by a therapy dog named Prozac who has supernatural wisdom and a canine Mensa IQ?

Meredith Mancuso is depressed. Ever since the death of her fiancé, she has shrunk from the world. Even with her successful writing career, she’s not motivated to work. When her sister, Monica, begs for a favor, Meredith wants nothing more than to say no. But she’s ultimately roped into pet-sitting an orphaned Yorkshire terrier named Prozac.

Blessed with spiritual wisdom and a high IQ, Prozac is an active pet therapy dog. To heal broken-hearted Meredith, he rallies his fan club at Evergreen Gardens, an independent living facility, where he visits each week.

Prozac and the community of resilient older folks challenged by losses of their own propel Meredith, often against her will, back into the land of the living. Meredith learns that most people carry some sort of burden, but it’s still possible to find meaning, purpose, and joy—and sometimes, even love—along the way.

Buy Links:

Author Website: http://thethingis-thenovel.blogspot.com/p/buy-book.html

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Thing-Kathleen-Gerard-ebook/dp/B01B55MZY2

iBooks: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/the-thing-is/id1079207409?mt=11

Kobo: https://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/ebook/the-thing-is-1

Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-thing-is-kathleen-gerard/1123327681?ean=2940152772616

Reviews:

“A story brimming with humor and heart, and an ending that’s as unexpected as it is satisfying.” — Claire Ashby, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of When You Make it Home

“Great story! Unexpected, delightful, uniquely creative…Kathleen Gerard not only understands the canine brain, but she gets people too. The Thing Is reminds us of how intricate and interwoven relationships are—and Prozac teaches us about grace and unconditional love.” — Melody Carlson, author of The Christmas Joy Ride, Finding Alice, and The Christmas Dog

“Everyone could use a little Prozac. Kathleen Gerard’s heartwarming and uplifting book will have you heading to a pound as soon as you put the book down (if you can ever manage to do it). An absolute page turner, The Thing is provides all the proof you’ll ever need that dogs are truly nothing less than Four Legged Angels.” — Mary Curran Hackett, author of Proof of Heaven and Proof of Angels

“A truly humorous twist on the issue of human frailty interacting with animal charm…offers a new take on grief recovery, which is both lighthearted and insightful!” — Trudie Barrares, Amazon “Vine Program” Top Reviewer

“Kathleen Gerard captures the powers of caring, connection, and resilience in her wonderful novel, The Thing Is. Prozac, the book’s funny and wise canine hero, helps humans of all ages overcome their losses and grief, find happiness and adventure, and renew their joy in love and life.” — Susan Sipprelle, award-winning documentary filmmaker at Tree of Life Productions (Over 50 and Out of Work; Set for Life; Soldier On: Life After Deployment)

“A triumph! A gem of a story!” — Maggie King, author of Murder at the Book Group

“Kathleen Gerard is a sterling storyteller who held my heart in her hands from start to finish. I recommend The Thing Is to everyone who is a pet lover (or not) and to anyone who is grieving or facing the unknown. The Thing Is brings hope, happiness, and new beginnings. This is my BEST read this year…kudos to Ms. Gerard. You nailed it!” — Fresh Fiction

“Is this an endearing book about a dog? Yes. But it’s more than that. The devastating ache of loss throbs through its pages from beginning to end. Even though the story is tempered with a good dose of humor and tail-wagging cuteness, be prepared – it’s an emotional read with a capital E.” — Scranton Book Examiner

*****

Excerpt:

Always keep a camera close by at weddings, baptisms, and bar mitzvahs.

That was the cardinal rule of survival I’d devised when trying to navigate my life as a shining example of unexpected spinsterhood. The world, I’d learned, traveled in pairs—like Noah’s Ark—or with families. But people, perfumed and ready to party, could never resist mugging for a photo. Latching on to a camera could create a sense of security and purpose, something to hide behind. In my case, I had a tendency to cut off people’s heads in pictures. But that didn’t matter. Aiming a camera—a point-and-shoot or even just my smartphone—and pressing the shutter was a simple enough task that could occupy my time while couples were out on the dance floor.

The thing was that, after a while, there were only so many pictures to take and so many trips to make to the ladies’ room. At some point during social events, I always found myself alone at my table, surrounded by empty chairs, dirty plates, crumbs, and soiled napkins as I slugged back another sip of wine and wished—wished so hard that it hurt—that they’d hurry up and bring out the cake to signal that the party would soon be over.

That was the very dilemma I was facing at the bar mitzvah that day. The firstborn son of my old college roommate, Sarah, was celebrating his coming of age, while I was sitting alone at my empty table. I forced an admiring smile as dolled-up couples and pimply-faced teenagers crowded the dance floor, shaking and shimmying to a live rendition of “That’s the Way I Like It.”

At first, I didn’t even realize that Sarah’s youngest, five-year-old Jed Jr.—JJ—had climbed onto the chair next to mine. But when I felt a tug on my sleeve and heard him ask, “How come you don’t have a husband?” his presence was announced, loud and clear.

“How come you don’t have a wife?” I countered.

“‘Cause I’m too little,” he said. “What’s your excuse?”

I laughed. JJ certainly had no inhibitions. And he was a real cutie. His fair skin, disheveled angelic-blond hair, and saucer-like blue eyes guaranteed he’d break hearts someday. “Well, not everyone is married.”

“Mommy says your husband died.” Thanks, Sarah!

“He was my fiancé. Not my husband.”

“What’s a fiancé?”

I had to stop and think. Even though I wrote books for a living, award-winning romantic sagas with convoluted plots and subplots, my trying to define the word fiancé for a precocious child was like reconciling the meaning of the universe into a single sound bite.

“Well, before people get married, they get engaged, like when a man gives a ring to his future bride. Did you ever hear of that?”

“Of course. Everybody’s heard of that, dummy.” So much for little Prince Charming!

“Well, before the wedding, that’s what a bride or groom is called. After the engagement ring is given, you would say, ‘He’s my fiancé,’ or in your case, you would probably say, ‘She is my fiancée.'”

“How did your fiancé die?” What’s taking so long with that damn cake?

“Well, the thing is…”

I froze and stared at a tiny drop of red wine that had spilled on the starched white tablecloth, suddenly transported back three years to the night of my thirtieth birthday…

Kyle and I were having a beautiful, candlelit dinner on the patio at Andrea’s, my favorite Italian restaurant. We watched a mango-colored July sun slip down into the evening sky.

Kyle held up his glass. “Happy birthday, Meredith. I’m looking forward to spending all of your birthdays with you.”

That was the same thing he’d said when we’d first celebrated together on my twenty-third birthday…

Our bellies full of pasta, crab-filled calamari, veal parmigiana, espresso, and tiramisu, we walked arm in arm back to the lot where we’d parked the pickup. Kyle kept whistling the birthday song…

A St. Florian medal and a replica of Kyle’s fireman badge dangled from a chain looped over the rearview mirror. I leaned toward Kyle, and the light from the dashboard illuminated the warm pools of his brown eyes as I pressed my lips tenderly to his…

And then a jolt—the urgent sound of a fist rapping upon the driver’s side window. “Yo, get a room! We’re waitin’ for this spot. You leavin’ or what, dawg?”

My heart pounded in my chest.

The menacing, crazed face of an eighteen or nineteen-year-old kid filled the square window frame. He was wearing a ski cap, and lots of gold chains surrounded his neck.

Kyle reached to open the door.

“Don’t,” I said, my fingers firming around the sleeve of his polo shirt and his rock-solid arm.

“You only promised me dinner, not fireworks. C’mon. Let’s go.”

“No,” Kyle snapped. “This is exactly what’s wrong with the world.”

Even with both my hands clamped to his arm, Kyle swung open the door and forced the kid to take a step away.

“You stay here,” he ordered. “I’ll be right back.”

“Kyle, please,” I pleaded, but he broke free from my grasp and hopped out of the car…

*****

Author Info:

Kathleen Gerard’s work has been awarded many literary prizes and broadcast on National Public Radio (NPR). Kathleen’s woman-in-jeopardy novel, IN TRANSIT, won “Best Romantic Fiction” at the New York Book Festival. To learn more visit http://www.kathleengerard.blogspot.com

Website: http://www.thethingis-thenovel.blogspot.com

Blog: http://www.kathleengerard.blogspot.com

Social Media Links:

http://www.facebook.com/kathleengerard.writer

http://www.twitter.com/kathleengerard

http://www.linkedin.com/in/kathleen-gerard-47000a2b

Spotlight – Too Hot to Handle

24 Tuesday May 2016

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Sneak Peek

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Romancing the Clarksons Series, Tessa Bailey, Too Hot to Handle

This sounds like such fun!!

*****

Too Hot to Handle

Romancing the Clarksons series

by Tessa Bailey

Blurb:

When rescue looks like a whole lot of trouble . . .

The road trip was definitely a bad idea. Having already flambéed her culinary career beyond recognition, Rita Clarkson is now stranded in God-Knows-Where, New Mexico, with a busted-ass car and her three temperamental siblings, who she hasn’t seen in years. When rescue shows up—six-feet-plus of hot, charming sex on a motorcycle—Rita’s pretty certain she’s gone from the frying pan right into the fire . . .

Jasper Ellis has a bad boy reputation in this town, and he loathes it. The moment he sees Rita, though, Jasper knows he’s about to be sorely tempted. There’s something real between them. Something raw. And Jasper has only a few days to show Rita that he isn’t just for tonight—he’s forever.

BUY LINKS:

Amazon: http://amzn.to/1PWXTXl

iBooks: http://apple.co/1T5bW0Z

Barnes & Noble: http://bit.ly/24nRnR9

*****

Excerpt:

“Believe this, Rita. I think you’re gorgeous as sin and I need your mouth on mine.”

Rita nodded, meshing their wet lips together in the process. “I want to believe that. You might have to help me.”

“Thank Christ.”

Their mouths slanted and somehow—somehow—that feast of lips and tongue and teeth was even more potent than the night before. His knee rammed into the bike—almost as if his leg had tried to buckle—shooting pain up his right thigh, but it vanished under the pleasure. Vanished into vapor. The stroking, hot, abandon of Rita. They were both breathing through their noses so as not to break the voracious mouth-fucking they were engaging in, and that shouldn’t have been so all-out sexy. But it sure as shit was. They were attacking each other with seeking tongues and open lips, playing chicken to see who would give in first.

When her hands slipped under his shirt and pulled down on his belt buckle, putting pressure on Jasper’s cock, he cursed into her mouth, securing his fist in her hair like a goddamn barbarian. And she liked it, too. Why else would she be tugging on his belt, encouraging him to rock into the notch of her pussy? Too far. This was going too far. Any farther and they’d end up somewhere naked.

She’d leave the encounter with no doubt of his experience, because, hell, Jasper knew every button to press, when to change rhythm, when to be forceful or pull back. Knew it all. But Rita wouldn’t look at him the same way afterward. She’d see the local tramp, like everyone else.

She’d leave. And he’d have failed in his one attempt to be more to someone.

Jasper tore his mouth free, releasing a gruff exhale into her neck. “You have me ready to bust in my jeans, beautiful. I was smoother than this in high school.”

“That’s a scary thought,” she breathed out in a rush, her fists still curling in his shirt. “Was that the other half of your apology for last night? B-because I have to say, it was pretty effective.”

“At the risk of sounding arrogant, Rita, I haven’t even moved my hips yet. You’ve barely gotten a preview of how thoroughly I can…apologize.”

“Don’t leave me in suspense,” she whispered, those golden-brown eyes going as big as salad plates.

Don’t do it. You’ll have a hard-on for a decade. “If you agree to go out with me tonight, I’ll rub that wet, aching seam of yours with my own ache.”

Rita’s head fell back on a whimper. “Fine. Yes.”

*****

Author Info:

Tessa Bailey is originally from Carlsbad, California. The day after high school graduation, she packed her yearbook, ripped jeans and laptop, driving cross-country to New York City in under four days.

Her most valuable life experiences were learned thereafter while waitressing at K-Dees, a Manhattan pub owned by her uncle. Inside those four walls, she met her husband, best friend and discovered the magic of classic rock, managing to put herself through Kingsborough Community College and the English program at Pace University at the same time. Several stunted attempts to enter the work force as a journalist followed, but romance writing continued to demand her attention.

She now lives in Long Island, New York with her husband of eight years and four-year-old daughter. Although she is severely sleep-deprived, she is incredibly happy to be living her dream of writing about people falling in love.

Website ** Facebook ** Twitter ** Goodreads

*****

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Spotlight – The Winter Bear’s Bride

23 Monday May 2016

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Contest, Sneak Peek

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Mina Carter, The Winter Bear's Bride

Oh, do I have a treat for those of you who love shifter romances!

*****

The Winter Bear’s Bride

ARe Dubious

by Mina Carter

Genre: Paranormal Shifter Romance, Bears

Publisher: All Romance eBooks

Date of Publication: May 1, 2016

ISBN: 978-1-943576-76-0

Word Count: 32k

Cover Artist: Erin Dameron Hill

Blurb:

To stop a war, she must become his.

Analise, daughter of the Bear Elder, has status and luxury, though she’s a prisoner of her birth and despised by her father because she’s not the alpha son he needs. She keeps her head down and hoards lost knowledge that nearly destroyed the planet. She dreams of escape, but her father decides it’s time for her to marry.

He’s hated her and all she represents for years. But once he meets her…

Scar, rebel leader and were-polar bear, wants nothing more than to burn the clan system to the ground. It’s cruel, unfair, and dedicated to keeping most of the populace in its place. To do so, he needs to take out the Bear Elder and his scheming daughter. As soon as he sees the delicate beauty of his enemy, though, all he can think of is making her his. And he’s prepared to go to war to do so.

Not all battles need to be fought in the field. Some are of the heart and the mind and he intends to win hers, whatever it takes. Trouble is, what it takes might be all he has.

ARe Amazon

*****

Excerpt:

“Whether you like it or not, Analise, you will marry and ensure the continuation of our bloodline,” Magnus, alpha of the Asmundr clan and Elder of all the bear clans, bellowed loud enough to rattle the hall windows. “Do you understand me?”

Analise stood before the dais and throne-like chair that marked her father’s status as alpha, gritted her teeth and answered with a nod. There was nothing else she could do. Her father ruled the clans with an iron rod, and argument was not tolerated. Ever.

Duty, honor and sacrifice.

The words had been drilled into her relentlessly from the day she’d been born. The day her mother had died giving birth to her. In one fateful moment, she’d not only stolen his wife, but also a bear-mate, one of the few women capable of bearing him an alpha son. He’d never forgiven her for that.

“Speak up, girl!” Magnus roared. The guards who flanked the dais looked ahead. All bears, they were used to their alpha’s rage and volume. There would be no help from that quarter. None of them would risk incurring her father’s wrath. Not for her.

“Yes, Father. I understand.”

The words were dust in her mouth and her stomach churned. She’d always known she would have to marry one day; she just hadn’t expected it to be so soon. Most of the time her father ignored her existence as long as the holding ran smoothly and when he did notice her, his disdain was apparent. It didn’t help that she was small and slight. Her appearance, though, had its advantages. Most people assumed she was years younger than she was. Being called a “girl” had gone from being an insult to a cloak to hide behind.

She’d thought she had years yet before her father realized she was of marriageable age. Years to study the books their ancestors had brought from the south lands after the wars and learn something useful. Years to learn how to survive in the snowy wastes outside the thick walls of the stronghold so that one day she could make her escape.

But she didn’t have years after all. She had to marry, and that marriage would not be of her choosing. Her father would trade her in marriage to further the clan’s interests and his own agenda.

Taking a deep breath, she ignored the crushing disappointment. Her happiness was not a consideration. It never had been.

“Good!” Magnus levered himself out of his chair, stomping down the steps to tower over her.

She looked up at him, her expression carefully neutral. Not too happy, but not cold. She’d perfected the look years ago. Nothing that could be considered insolent or anything other than the perfectly dutiful daughter in any way.

“The ball will begin at nine,” he rumbled, reaching out and gripping her chin in one massive hand.

*****

Author Info:

Mina Carter is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of romance in many genres. She lives in the UK with her husband, daughter and a bossy cat. For more information on other books by Mina, visit her website: http://www.mina-carter.com.

https://www.facebook.com/minacarterauthor

http://twitter.com/minacarter

https://plus.google.com/113296905677815696815/posts

http://pinterest.com/minacarter77

http://mina-carter.com/

*****

Giveaway:

3 eBook copies of UNDER HIS CLAW by Viola Grace

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/ba112ffc1334/

*****

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Book Review – The Purest Hook

19 Thursday May 2016

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

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Book Review, Scarlett Cole, Second Circle Tattoos series, The Purest Hook

Can heavy metal rock God, Dred, put his turbulent upbringing in a Toronto group home behind him long enough to fall in love and save Pix from her past? Find out in THE PUREST HOOK by RITA nominee, Scarlett Cole and St. Martin’s Press. Fans of Laura Kaye’s Hard Ink series or Kylie Scott’s Stage Dive books will fall in love with the tattooed heroes of the Second Circle Tattoos!

*****

The Purest Hook

by Scarlett Cole

Genre: Contemporary Romance, Romantic Suspense

Release Date: May 3rd, 2016

Publisher: St. Martin’s Press

Blurb:

Can a love built on secrets survive?

Rugged, hot, and rock hard, Dred Zander is exactly the type of man that normally sends Pixie running. Not dreaming about running her hands down his washboard abs…and lower. The lead singer and guitarist for the band Preload embodies trouble behind his quick smile and guarded eyes, and Pixie left trouble behind her years ago along with the name Sarah Jane Travers and the pathetic trailer her mom called home. With her abusive past in her past, she has a new life, a new family at Second Circle, and a dream of opening her own business. She needs capital and time. What she doesn’t need is a tempting long-haired rocker or the paparazzi that follow him around.

But Dred has other ideas. Pixie’s sweet hazel eyes, purple hair and kaleidoscopic tattoo of exotic flowers that swirl up her arm haunt his dreams, and he knows she wants him too. He just has to convince her. But as a juicy exposé threatens to expose their pasts, and a blackmailer terrorizes their present, Pixie and Dred have to decide what really matters and fight like hell to keep it.

Available at: Amazon US | Amazon UK | iBooks | B&N

*****

Excerpt:

Pyrotechnics went off all the way around the stage as the crowd screamed and cheered. He hugged each of the guys, then ran off the stage to pull Pixie from Harper and Drea. The break between the end of the act and the encore was approximately four minutes, and he had plans to use them wisely.

Pixie looked at him, her eyes wide in shock as he grabbed her hand.

“Quick,” he said to her, tugging her down the stage steps. There was no way he could make it back to his dressing room in time, so he hurried them along the black curtain that surrounded the stage into a darkened corner. He pushed her gently against the wall, trapping her in his arms.

“Watching you watch me, Pix . . . drove me crazy. You going to let me kiss you?” he begged. “Please.”

Pixie looked at him and put a hand against his cheek. “Yes.”

He slid both hands into her hair and pressed his mouth against hers. Energized from the performance, Dred struggled to rein in the need to kiss her fiercely. When he heard her groan, felt her lift up on her toes to loop her arms around his neck, he was done for. She was more than he’d dreamed of, and he’d dreamed a hell of a fucking lot. And yet none of his half-asleep fantasies could match the emotions currently blazing through him. Her tongue tentatively brushed against his so gently it was almost innocent. Well, as innocent as it could be when what he really wanted to do was take her against this black curtain.

It was fucking heaven.

He slid his hands down her body. Pixie giggled when he gripped her waist to pull her close. Ticklish. He’d have to remember that.

Not that he wanted to, but he needed to get back onstage. Fucking encore. He kissed her one more time, tasted the whiskey he’d given her earlier. The telltale thump of Lennon’s bass drum started to sound. He pulled back, willing his hard-on to take it down a notch before he got back onstage.

“That was quite the kiss,” Pixie said shyly.

He took her hand and led her back to the stage, positioning her right where she had been. It was impossible to resist kissing her again, and he grinned when Trent raised an eyebrow in his direction.

“Agreed. As beginnings go, Pix, it was pretty fucking epic,” he said with a wink, and walked back onto the stage to face the screaming fans.

*****

Review:

I love the idea that these two people, who have been damaged by their pasts, are able to use their terrible experiences to give them insight into each other, turning it all into something wonderfully positive. They both have hang-ups, things that make having a relationship extremely difficult, but when they get together it creates something magical.

Pixie lived through an absolutely devastating thing but managed to come out the other side, showing her strength and resilience. That’s not to say she doesn’t have her scars but lucky for her Dred is just the guy who has the understanding to help her work through them. And while I hurt for her, my heart also aches for what Dred went through growing up. I just want to cuddle the little boy that he was – alone, scared, and finding himself thrown into scary situations.

The relationship between the men of Preload, the way they support each other and will do just about anything to make sure that that each of them feels comfortable, is spectacular. They have an unshakable bond forged in heartache and tested to show that it will last. And it’s just a notch down on the awesome scale from the romance between him and Pixie 🙂 The way that he understands her and is willing to wait for her to be ready each step of the way is oh-so-sexy. Every time he calls her snowflake my heart sighs. I’m also ready to cuddle the grown up version of Dred but for an entirely different reason!

I will say my only complaint is how vague Cole is about the things that Dred’s boys experienced. I understand that she wants the big reveals to happen during their own books, but that is one of those things that irritates me when reading a book. I’m not the most patient of people and I think that might have something to do with it 🙂 – I want my answers and I want them now … I will give her props though because I am so very anxious to get my hands on the next book! And the next and the next!

As with the other books in this series, there is an element of danger and suspense. It’s a great complement to the more emotional moments, helping to pull readers in and have them anxiously turning pages to find out how it all works out. I feel bad for these people to have so many horrible things happen to them but they have the strength and support they need to come out happy on the other side.

Full of passion, humor and a massive amount of heartwarming goodness, this latest book in the Second Circle Tattoos series highlights how Scarlett Cole shines at creating can’t-put-down romances.

*****

Author Info:

Scarlett Cole is a writer of contemporary romance and a two-time RITA finalist. Her debut, THE STRONGEST STEEL, has already become an Amazon best seller in romantic suspense, was a Best Debut Goodreads Author Finalist 2015, and Authors On The Air Global Radio Network Contemporary Romance Pick of 2015.

When Scarlett isn’t writing, she spends her time reading, hoarding mason jars, and working out to off-set an epic sour candy habit. She likes hot men, cold beer, and expensive shoes.

Having travelled the world for work and fun, Scarlett is a citizen of both Britain and Canada. A true city-dweller, she considers Toronto and Manchester home and likes to set her books in vibrant locations such as Miami and Los Angeles.

Rep’d by Beth Phelan at The Bent Agency, and published by St. Martin’s Press.

She’d love to hear from you on twitter @itsscarlettcole

Connect with Scarlett: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

*****

Giveaway:

Follow the tour and enter to win great prizes!

1 grand prize winner will receive a signed copy of The Strongest Steel (Second Circle Tattoos #1)

2 runner-ups will receive a $25 Amazon Giftcard!

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/b050ef29221/

*****

Visit all the blogs participating in the tour for reviews, excerpts, guest posts and more chances to win!

05/02/2016

The Lusty Literate

mignon mykel: reviews

05/03/2016

05/04/2016

Avid Reader Amy’s Reviews

Lisa’s Louisiana Home

05/05/2016

Wild Heart Reviews

Flame Resistant Undies Romance Reviews

MrsLeif’s Two Fangs About It

Two Girls with Books

Sleep Deprived Book Lovers

05/06/2016

Lisa’s Louisiana Home

Mary Gramlich (The Reading Reviewer)

Reese’s Review

Reviews From The Heart

05/09/2016

Life With Two Boys

Vera is Reading

05/10/2016

Swept Away By Romance

05/11/2016

Ramblings From This Chick

05/12/2016

The Book Disciple

Loves 2 Read Romance

Positively Book Crazy

My YA NA Book Obsession

05/13/2016

Nicole’s Book Musings

Lea’s Book Blog

Smitten with Reading blog

05/16/2016

Underneath The Covers

Amanda’s Book Nook for Mature Adults

Eskie Mama Reads

05/17/2016

iScream Books

Splashes Into Books

05/18/2016

U.S. – Brazil Book Review

Happily Ever Chapter

Book Reviews & More by Kathy

Alpha Book Club

Naughty Book Eden

05/19/2016

Ellesea Loves Reading

OMGReads

Romantic Reads and Such

My Favorite Things

Evermore Books

05/20/2016

Just Booked

The Phantom Paragrapher

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Spotlight – Worth the Wait

16 Monday May 2016

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Contest, Sneak Peek

≈ 1 Comment

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Divine Island series, Julie Ann Levin, Worth the Wait

I have absolutely no idea why this one isn’t already in my TBR pile but it has definitely been added after I got a couple of sneak peeks 🙂

*****

Worth the Wait

Divine Island #1

by Julie Ann Levin

Releasing May 17, 2016

Kingbird Press, LLC

Blurb:

Tropical beaches and second chances…

As a rule, Chase Hammond avoided going home to Divine Island whenever possible. But when his father has a heart attack, he’s left with no other choice but to go back and hope that he can avoid trouble and stay focused.

Recently divorced and struggling to keep all the elements of her life together, Natalie Rey has absolutely no desire to make her life any more difficult than it already is. But when Chase Hammond shows up on her doorstep, the man who rejected her years earlier, she’ll have to do her best to avoid the monumental distraction.

The last thing either of them needs is their sizzling chemistry getting in the way of their goals.

Can Natalie resist the sexy man who broke her heart years ago?

Will allowing him back into her life only lead to more heartache?

Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/29478174-worth-the-wait

Buy Links: Amazon

*****

Excerpt:

Natalie Rey didn’t know the first thing about wielding the wrench in her hand, but not knowing things had never stopped her before. She wasn’t going to let a leaky faucet get in the way of finding a tenant, but so far, everyone had expected the shower in the master bathroom to be in working order.

Silly people, with their basic needs, like indoor plumbing.

No worries, Natalie was perfectly capable of watching videos of people who did know things.

Having watched the video no less than five times, Natalie repeated the instructions aloud. “Just replace the stem, tighten things back up, and no more leak.”

She did these things, intent on using the most precise movements. Except when she tightened the faucet, water shot out in a jet stream, hitting her right in the face. She screamed, (more like gargled), and held her hands in front of her body in a weak attempt to stop the water.

What made her think she could do this without the use of a real plumber? She turned the knob, only to have it come off in her hand. “Easy, my ass,” she said through her teeth.

“Nat? What are you doing?”

Natalie’s posture stiffened at the sight of Chase Hammond filling the doorway like he was holding the house up with his big, strong body.

Not now. Even as water sprayed wildly around her, she looked up at the ceiling, asking God why. Why would you bring Chase Hammond to my door at this moment?

Or ever for that matter.

“Obviously…” She cleared her throat. “I don’t know what I’m doing. What are you doing? Here? In my bathroom?”

“Where’s the valve to shut off the water?” Chase asked, focused and on track, responding to the situation as if she were in way over her head.

For the record, she was.

Looking even better than she remembered, he was glorious in his relaxed jeans and threadbare T-shirt, tight across his chest and loose around his flat stomach.

“The what?” Natalie asked, still standing in the spray, pretending like she wasn’t just ogling him.

“Outside, Nat.” He offered her a bemused smile, giving Natalie the impression that he knew exactly what she was doing. “There should be a valve to shut off all the water to the house.”

“Should I have turned that off before working on the faucet?”

He rewarded her with a broad grin, and Natalie’s brain went fuzzy, all neurons getting lost in a wave of static. She’d seen pictures of him as recent as a year ago, but she’d forgotten how mind crippling his smile could be in real time.

“Nat, the valve?”

Natalie pushed her shoulders back and lifted her chin. “Under the bushes. I think it’s on the west side of the house.”

He grimaced. “Of course, it’s under the bushes. Get out of the tub. You’re soaked.”

Natalie’s eyes widened, and she shook her head at the spot where Chase once stood. He’d sounded so bossy that she almost stayed put just to spite him. Instead, she climbed out of the tub and chastised herself for not turning the valve off in the first place.

The water slowed and then stopped running altogether. She breathed a shaky sigh of relief. The faucet was in worse shape than before she started, but at least the meter wasn’t running up at breakneck speed anymore. Besides, she had other things to worry about. Natalie hadn’t seen Chase Hammond in eight years.

Not that she was counting.

Chase returned to the bathroom and stared at her bedraggled state. She warmed as his eyes swept up and down her body.

She touched her palms to her cheeks. Yep, she was blushing. Just like when they were younger.

He leaned on the doorjamb with one hand at his waist. “The valve’s on the east side of the house in case you were wondering.”

Natalie’s head jerked in his direction. “Like I’m supposed to remember directional indicators at the drop of a hat? There was water spraying at my face.”

She looked down, having forgotten what she was wearing: Yoga pants, and a white shirt that clung to her body. Feeling nothing but ready for a wet T-shirt contest, she raised her chin and crossed her arms over her chest.

Again, the corners of Chase’s mouth tipped up. She dropped her arms to her sides in response. “Would you please hand me the towel?”

He did, without urgency if she had any opinion on the matter, and she wrapped it around her shoulders.

“The faucet?” he asked.

She held her hand out. “It’s right here and not at all attached to the wall where it belongs.”

He made a valiant effort to suppress his laughter and failed spectacularly.

“Please stop,” she asked, although she was forcing back her laughter now. His laugh was contagious that way. It was a full-body display, the way he threw his head back. Hers wasn’t so good. It was the kind of laugh that could turn into sobbing if she wasn’t careful.

“Were you always this serious?” He took a step toward her and pulled the towel tighter around her shoulders. “Come on; you think it’s a little funny.”

He was so close she could imagine the feel of his unshaven face on her skin. Natalie worked at remaining unaffected, but he smelled like he was genetically designed to excite her hormones. If only she could press her face against his neck for a sampling of the goods.

“Do I look like I’m laughing, Chase? The video made it look so fricking easy.”

“It always looks easier in the video.”

She snorted. “Right, like you need to watch videos to fix things.”

“You’d be surprised,” he said.

She sighed and pushed her wet, shoulder length waves of brown hair away from her face. “I wanted to get these repairs done before my shift at the hospital.”

“I’m sure you were about to finish, and I interrupted you.”

She narrowed her eyes. “I do stuff like this all the time, and sixty percent of the time it works out.”

He nodded patronizingly and continued stroking her upper arms.

“Stop that.” She was wet and loving the heat that was coming off his body, or maybe that was just her reaction to him. “I can do this on my own.”

“I know you can,” he said. His eyes were so kind that she felt her heart squeeze. “How about I take a look and see if I can finish what you started?”

Natalie warred with her inherent stubbornness. “Don’t you have somewhere to be?”

“It’s just a faucet, Nat.”

“Yes…just a faucet that I couldn’t fix.”

“That’s not what I meant.” He relaxed his posture. “I’ve done this before.”

She nodded and took a step back from him. “Why are you here again? Ellie isn’t here. She’s off traveling with Chuck.” Natalie removed a leaf from his hair, something he must have picked up while looking for the valve.

Chase stopped to look at her. “Yes, I know where my sister is, thank you very much.” He moved around in the small bathroom. “Where’s the box the faucet came in?”

Distracted, Natalie stared at his muscles shifting beneath his thin shirt. “It’s behind the door. Wait! Don’t close the—”

He did just that.

“Door,” Natalie said, pressing the heels of her hands to her eyes. This was not happening. She was not stuck in a bathroom with Chase Hammond. Her shift at the hospital started in, oh, two hours. Everything remained broken. She was soaking wet, and did she mention stuck in a bathroom with Chase Hammond?

“Nat?”

She peeked from behind her hands. “Yeah, Chase?”

He slid his hands into his pockets and rocked back on his heels. “Why shouldn’t I have closed the door?”

“Fixing the door lock,” Natalie said, placing her hands on her hips, “was next on my list of things to do.”

Chase clicked his tongue. “Right after fixing the leaky faucet?”

Natalie nodded. “Right after fixing the leaky faucet.”

*****

Author Info:

Julie Ann Levin grew up in Miami, Florida. She graduated from Florida State University with a degree in English, majoring in Creative Writing. She loves to read all genres of Romance and especially loves contemporary, suspense, and paranormal.

She is known to binge read and is always binge writing.

Author Links: Website | Twitter | Facebook | GoodReads

*****

Giveaway:

a $25 eGift Card to choice book seller

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/521ac4c81032/

*****

Click on the banner below to check out the rest of the tour

Book Review – Mayday

10 Tuesday May 2016

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

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Book Review, Lovestruck Librarians series, Mayday, Olivia Dade

After this, I’m so ready to move to a small town to be their librarian … I can only hope I have such fantastic stories to tell 🙂

*****

Mayday

Lovestruck Librarians series

by Olivia Dade

Blurb:

Helen Murphy loves her supportive family, her close-knit circle of friends, and her part-time job at the library. What she doesn’t love: the fact that she’s a thirty-six-year-old near-virgin who lives in her parents’ house. Eager to move out and reclaim her independence at long last, she’s determined to get the library’s new Community Outreach Coordinator position. Even if that means working side-by-side with the one man she desperately wants to avoid—Niceville’s ambitious mayor Wes Ramirez, who happens to be her only previous lover, and the source of her greatest humiliation…

Wes needs to make up for his disastrous one-night—actually, make that one-hour—stand with deliciously nerdy librarian Helen. As they plan the city’s upcoming May Day celebrations together, he’ll try to prove he can do better, in bed and out. It may take every bit of his creativity and determination, but their budding romance has already gone down in flames once . . . and he’ll be damned if he’ll let Helen go a second time.

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Mayday-Lovestruck-Librarians-Book-2-ebook/dp/B013ZNGZW0

Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/mayday-olivia-dade/1122536585?ean=9781616509378

Google: https://play.google.com/store/books/details/Olivia_Dade_Mayday?id=Ld5fCgAAQBAJ

Books-A-Million: http://www.booksamillion.com/p/Mayday/Olivia-Dade/Q672234296?id=6300597355308

iBooks: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/mayday/id1039679614?mt=11

Kobo: https://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/ebook/mayday-17

The Kensington website: http://www.kensingtonbooks.com/book.aspx/32306

*****

Excerpt:

“I see that the library sent a representative to discuss the history and symbolism of May Day, but I never got a message confirming the name,” Wes said. “So if anyone’s here from the library, please feel free to come to the front and make your presentation.”

That Helen rose from her seat didn’t come as a shock to him. Given her lack of willingness even to look his way, he didn’t think anything other than professional necessity would have driven her within fifty feet of him. She made her way to the front, her eyes focused on the podium rather than him. Only when she arrived and he failed to move out of her way did she raise her gaze.

“Excuse me, Mayor Ramirez,” she said, her voice firm.

He couldn’t locate a single iota of warmth in her tone. Certainly not the kind of heat he felt standing only inches away from her.

“Wes,” he said.

“Excuse me,” she repeated. “I need to get to the podium.”

He didn’t budge. “Please call me Wes, Helen.”

Now he could feel heat emanating from her, all right. But not the heat of affection or desire. No, the heat he sensed came from fiery rage.

Her soft lips firmed, and she flicked a dismissive glance at the microphone he was blocking with his body. Rather than pushing past him or calling him by his first name, she instead turned to face the crowd from where she stood. “Good evening!” she shouted. “I’m Helen Murphy, and I’m a part-time adult reference librarian at the Downtown Niceville Library!”

He turned away before she could see the grin he couldn’t stifle. What a firebrand. He was pretty sure if he read her mind right about now, he’d hear something along the lines of, Screw your microphone, Mayor Ramirez. And screw you too.

Once he had his face under control, he turned back to her. “Here,” he said, interrupting her introduction and moving away from the podium.

“Why don’t you use the microphone?”

“Thank you, Mayor Ramirez,” she said.

“You’re welcome, Helen,” he answered, and then took a seat directly in front of her.

*****

Review:

It’s going to sound like I didn’t like this book, but that is SO far from the truth 🙂 Dade delivers a sweet, small-town romance with great characters, entertaining interactions, and an easy-to-read voice.

A couple of things did bother me, though. I think that Helen’s expectations of her initial hookup with Wes are a little unrealistic. Luckily Dade has her recognize this and it helps to make her a little more normal. She seems to think that it is the start of something grand but she has a 5 minute conversation in a bar (with a man that doesn’t even know her name) and then they are off to bed. It is hurtful when things go sour so quickly but it isn’t all that unexpected. Wes does recognize that he messes up and tries to make up for it, but only after he’s got himself straightened out, which I think is admirable.

At that point, they are thrown together to work on a project and Wes wants to have another chance. Unfortunately for him, Helen is hurt and not willing to risk her heart again. Luckily for him, though, he’s able to charm her into trying to be friends. Here’s my other complaint – I really wish we’d been given a glimpse of their interactions during those 2 months. There are a few references but I feel like I missed out on something by not seeing that part. They develop a deepening relationship that we don’t get to experience and their interactions we do get are so much fun that I want even more. I want to be there for the funny stories and the charming moments, getting a chance to see them fall for each other.

Having said that, the rest of Mayday really made me happy. I like that Wes took his time to woo her, even if Helen didn’t realize that was what he was doing. I also like how real the characters felt – with insecurities and difficulties that made them even more human. We get their disastrous first encounter, followed by a not much better re-introduction, and then the struggle to figure out if they can make their lives somehow fit together. It’s totally a real life thing – two people who have feelings for each other but with their own hopes, dreams, & baggage. Is it possible to make them work or are they fated to part ways?

(Even though this is the third book in the series, this one can stand on its own … although, with a few hints here, I’m definitely curious what trouble the other librarians got into while falling in love.)

*****

Author Info:

Olivia Dade grew up an undeniable nerd, prone to ignoring the world around her as she read any book she could find. Her favorite stories, though, were always romances. As an adult, she earned an M.A. in American history and worked in a variety of jobs that required her to hide her bawdy interior under a demure exterior: Colonial Williamsburg interpreter, high school teacher, academic tutor, and (of course) librarian. Finally, though, she realized the call of the hussy could no longer be denied. So now she writes contemporary romantic comedy with plenty of sex, banter, and nerdery. When not writing, she cooks alongside her husband, dabbles in photography, and tries to hide her collection of throbbing-intensive romances from her curious daughter.

http://oliviadade.com/books/

*****

Giveaway:

ebook copy of Mayday

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/e4be888272/

*****

Spotlight – Silent Hearts

10 Tuesday May 2016

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Contest, Sneak Peek

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Hamilton Stables series, Melissa West, Silent Hearts

Today we’re gonna look at 2 sweet, down home stories. First up, Melissa West’s newest in her well-loved Hamilton Stables series.

*****

Silent Hearts

A Hamilton Stables Novel

by Melissa West

Blurb:

Nick Hamilton has always known he’d take the reins of the family business when his father died, but that doesn’t make it any easier when the time comes. Especially with his two siblings tempted by a shrewd offer from a huge corporation to buy Hamilton Industries. Needing advice, Nick turns to his sensible childhood friend, Becca Stark—and finds her suddenly grown-up beauty ignites brand-new confusion, and crystal clear desire…

Becca has loved Nick for as far back as she can remember, but she decided long ago that telling him would be a mistake. Stubborn, strong Nick doesn’t see her as anything but the tomboy she used to be—or does he? As she helps him untangle his feelings about the ranch’s future, the familiar bond between them heats into an explosive attraction—and the kind of love that just might take the lead…

Amazon: http://goo.gl/R3RNhZ

Barnes & Noble: http://goo.gl/uRqgjF

iBooks: https://goo.gl/bw5FHF

Kobo: https://goo.gl/8Myq0T

*****

Excerpt:

“What the hell was that?”

“He was making a move on you. The instructor. On a student. I couldn’t allow such morally depraved behavior.”

Becca’s head twitched. “Yet you let that blond chick flaunt her goods all over you.”

Nick tossed up a hand. “Hey, I’m not the instructor and she’s not my student. And besides, she just offered to help. I didn’t ask her to. Why didn’t you help? Oh, that’s right, you were too busy drooling over Instructor Z.”

“He’s Kate’s brother. Shouldn’t you be nicer?”

Nick considered it for a second, then shook his head. “Nah. Alex would’ve supported me on this.”

“Alex? Your brother Alex? Mr. All Over Anything That Walked before meeting Kate? Yeah, I don’t think so. Zac is his brother-in-law. I think he’d tell you that you were being an ass.”

They were outside now, rain pouring down in sheets, soaking everything and further clouding Becca’s thoughts and mood. “You can’t just bully every guy interested in me. And I don’t even think he was. He was just being nice.”

“First, I don’t bully every guy. And second, he wasn’t being nice. Guys aren’t nice. They only want one thing. Zac only wants one thing.”

“That’s ridiculous!”

“It’s not. Every guy you’ve ever met wanted to get in your pants.”

Becca was fuming now, her hands in fists at her sides or she’d be tempted to deck him. How dare he? How dare he! “Really? Every guy? You’re a guy. You want to get in my pants?”

“Hell yes! Every single time I see you!”

*****

Author Info:

Melissa West writes heartfelt Southern romance and teen sci-fi romance, all with lots of kissing. Because who doesn’t like kissing? She lives outside of Atlanta, GA with her husband and two daughters and spends most of her time writing, reading, or fueling her coffee addiction.

Connect with Melissa at www.melissawestauthor.com

*****

Giveaway:

Silent Hearts Ebook

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/e4be888273/

*****

Spotlight – Passion, Poison, & Puppy Dogs

07 Saturday May 2016

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Contest, Sneak Peek

≈ 2 Comments

Tags

Danger Cove Pet Sitter Mystery, Jean Steffens, Passion Poison & Puppy Dogs, Sally S. Smith

I love these fun mysteries that Gemma Halliday Publishing puts out … and this one has dogs and a sexy man in uniform for added appeal!

*****

Passion, Poison, & Puppy Dogs

A Danger Cove Pet Sitter Mystery

Sally S. Smith & Jean Steffens

Gemma Halliday Publishing

ISBN: 9781943587469

Blurb:

In this dog eat dog world, it’s people you have to keep your eye on.

When Lizzie Jones, pet sitter extraordinaire, is asked to watch over her best friend’s two spoiled dogs at the posh gated community of Craggy Hill Estates, the last things she expects is to wind up in the middle of a homicide. But that’s exactly what happens when she finds her best friend’s cheating husband and Danger Cove’s celebrity bodybuilder champ, Mr. Jupiter, floating face down in his hot tub. To make matters worse, the police aren’t looking any further than the wife for a suspect—isn’t it always the wife? Well, not in this case—at least Lizzie refuses to believe it.

Between dealing with Craggy Hill’s hot security guard, Tino Morales—who also just happens to be the man who broke Lizzie’s heart in high school, caring for her grieving friend, and watching three rambunctious dogs, Lizzie has her hands full. So she recruits her famous granddad, retired network field correspondent, Jimmy John Jones, to help her put two and two together to find the real killer. Was Mr. Jupiter murdered by one of his women on the side? A jealous, disgruntled employee? Or someone with a bitter and deep-seated hatred of the superstar? It’s up to Lizzie, Jimmy John, and Lizzie’s own pug, Vader, to crack the case before the killer claims another victim…this one much closer to Lizzie’s own heart!

Visit the Town of Danger Cove official website!

Buy Links: Gemma Halliday Publishing Amazon Nook

iBook Kobo Smashwords Print

*****

Excerpt:

“I was thinking about you too,” I said. “I had a terrific time last night. Dinner, dancing. What more could a girl ask for?”

He smiled down at me, lifted my hand over my head, and led me to circle beneath our arms. Humming softly, he pulled me into a slow dance and whispered in my ear, “There are all kind of rhythms to the bachata. You like this one?”

Whew. When exactly had his cute-and-cuddly factor flipped the switch to hot and sexy? I was so caught up in the nearness of him that I actually made it a few beats before stepping on his toes and causing him to flinch in pain.

Dang. “Sorry, Tino. I guess I should have warned you that I’m a notorious klutz.”

He was all dewy-eyed and cuddly. “But the cutest klutz I’ve ever seen.” And before I realized what he had in mind, he bent his head, pulled me in at the waist, and planted a kiss on me. Our lips met softly, then tightened as we pushed against each other, caught by surprise at the heat we were generating.

I stepped back, breathing hard. He blinked a few times and ran his hand through his soft dark hair.

“Oh my,” I said.

“Caliente,” he said.

“Yes.” I shook my head to clear it. “You can say that again.”

“Caliente.”

*****

Author Info:

The international best-selling writing team of Sally J. Smith (right brain) and Jean Steffens (left brain) make up equal halves of one totally functional writer’s mind. Creative and intuitive and organized and systematic? What could be better than that?

The two desert dwellers work together side-by-side, literally finishing each other’s sentences, putting together their novels faster and more efficiently than they ever could individually.

When their heads aren’t together over a manuscript, you’ll find them with their families, at a movie, the yoga studio, the mall, or out-to-lunch—in the food sense, not the spaced-out sense, well…most of the time. Their current series include Jordan Welsh & Eddie Marino Novels, Mystic Isle Mysteries, Danger Cove Pet Sitter Mysteries, and coming soon, Aloha Lagoon Gabby LeClair Mysteries, and Digby Sloan Mysteries.

Visit our website, look around, and sign up for our newsletter. We love hearing from our readers and always answer our e-mails: smithandsteffens@cox.net

Sally J. Smith and Jean Steffens, are partners in crime—crime writing, that is. They live in the Valley of the Sun in Arizona, awesome for eight months out of the year, an inferno the other four. They write bloody murder, flirty romance, and wicked humor all in one package.

Website: http://www.smithandsteffens.com

Email: smithandsteffens@cox.net

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Smith-and-Steffens/406147242823342?fref=ts

Twitter: https://twitter.com/search?q=SmithSteffens&src=typd

Youtube: Passion, Poison, & Puppy Dogs: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3fWMwPCldt0

*****

Giveaway:

2 great giveaways!!

$25 Amazon Gift Card, Valid tour wide (US & Intl)

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/c7458f4383/

– and –

The Passion, Poison & Puppy Dogs Give-Away: A Digital or print copy of the book, a coffee mug of adorable Vader, and a bib apron with our celebrity pug

Go to our Smith and Steffens, International Best-Selling Authors FB Page by May 12th. Comment under Vader’s picture to enter and win a bib apron and coffee mug starring Vader, our celebrity pug, & your choice of a digital or paper copy of the book.

https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=830931697011559&id=406147242823342

*****

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Book Review – Welcome Home, Cowboy

04 Wednesday May 2016

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

≈ 1 Comment

Tags

Annie Rains, Book Review, Hero's Welcome series, Welcome Home Cowboy

On Monday I posted the review for book 1 – Welcome to Forever – and as promised here is book 2!

*****

Welcome Home, Cowboy

A Hero’s Welcome #2

by Annie Rains

Releasing April 26, 2016

Loveswept

Blurb:

With its thriving military base, Seaside, North Carolina, is teeming with heroes of all stripes. But, as the Hero’s Welcome series from Annie Rains continues, it takes a cowboy to rescue the town’s newest resident from heartache.

After a bad breakup leaves Julie Chandler completely devastated, she comes to Seaside seeking a fresh start. A talented, compassionate yoga teacher, she has developed a program to help alleviate the effects of PTSD, but getting a bunch of bullheaded Marines into downward facing dog might be impossible. So Julie’s shocked when one of her first students dives in headfirst—and almost tempts her to take down her walls with his easy smile and electrifying touch.

Ever since Texas cowboy turned Marine pilot Lawson Phillips lost a crew member in a helicopter accident, he hasn’t been able to fly. When a psychologist orders him to attend, of all things, a yoga class, Lawson’s outraged—until he finds out Julie is the instructor. She’s beautiful, graceful, and completely guarded when it comes to his advances, but he’s determined to find out what makes her tick. Because underneath Julie’s hard shell is a woman Lawson knows he could fall for—and he’s not ready for the ride to end.

Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25893437-welcome-home-cowboy

Buy Links: Amazon | B & N | iTunes | Kobo

*****

Excerpt:

“Come ride with me anytime,” he said, helping her dismount from the horse when they were back at the barn. He didn’t place his hands on her ass this time, which was both regrettable and a relief. Instead, he steadied her waist with his hands. She turned to face him after he helped her to the ground, and was surprised to find how close they were standing. Close enough that the brim of his hat on her head nearly touched his chin.

“This belongs to you.” She took off the hat and went up on her tiptoes to put it back where it belonged. Their eyes locked as the movement brought them even closer together. Her heart bucked again, like a wild horse ready to bolt.

Returning to flat feet, she started to step away. Needed to step away. Too bad Bon-Bon was still behind her, blocking her escape.

“Julie?” he said, making her feet pause and her heart stutter. She liked the sound of her name on his lips. Low, deep.

“Yes?” she asked breathlessly.

He reached out his hand to tame a strand of her hair brushing against her cheek. “You have what I call hat-hair.” He took his time smoothing the hair around her ear, awakening every nerve in her body. Then he slowly dipped, keeping his blue-as-the-ocean eyes on hers, and kissed her.

She melted into him instead of stepping away. The side of his cheek on hers was warm and inviting, intoxicating. His tongue tapped softly against hers, just once, as he swept his hand behind her neck, pulling her gently toward him.

A soft moan escaped her throat, betraying her. She parted her lips for him, inviting him in, begging him to stay, which he did for just a moment longer. Then he broke it off, keeping it sweet. The kiss had threatened to be more, though. It had threatened to take her inside that barn, lay her down on a blanket of hay, and be a whole hell of a lot more.

“See you later, Lawson,” she said, forcing herself to step away from him, away from the horse and the barn. She turned toward her car and didn’t look back. Otherwise, her hormones were going to win and drag this cowboy into the barn and slam the stall doors behind them.

“See you later, Julie,” he called after her.

*****

Review:

We actually saw the first book in this series earlier this week and I was so excited to see Julie & Lawson’s story. It’s not an easy series to read – things are light and it doesn’t go by fast. It’s something you have to digest because it is full of emotion and requires a slower pace to really appreciate it. (And even though this is the second story, it can stand on its own.)

Neither Lawson nor Julie are really ready for a relationship because both of them have issues they need to work through. But what the mind knows is right isn’t necessarily what the heart wants. They do take their time, spending time together and getting to know one another better. It’s a slow build and a sweet one. And you’ll find yourself hoping that they find a way to work things out.

I did feel like maybe Lawson didn’t address his survivor’s guilt as much as he should have. Of course, we got the resolution of his issues with flying but I think there was more there that could have been explored. I did like that Julie did resolve things with her ex. That was an important step for her to make.

Even though this series take a little more effort than I’m used to because of its depth, I’m definitely enjoying it and I’m looking forward to seeing what Rains brings us next. She has options (and I’m really hoping one of them is the guy who lost his leg in the crash that grounded Lawson).

*****

Author Info:

Annie Rains is a contemporary romance author who writes small town love stories set in fictional towns on the coast of North Carolina. Raised in one of America’s largest military communities, Annie often features heroes who fight for their countries, while also fighting for a place to call home and a good woman to love. When Annie isn’t writing, she’s spending time with her husband and 3 children, or reading a book by one of her favorite authors.

Author Links: Website | FB | Twitter | GR

*****

Giveaway:

$25.00 Amazon eGift Card

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/521ac4c81009/

*****

Click on the banner below to check out the rest of the tour

Book Review – Cupid’s Quest

29 Friday Apr 2016

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

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Tags

Book Review, Cupid's Crossing series, Cupid's Quest, Lori Soard

I can’t wait to share this one – it was such a touching read and I want everyone to have a chance to enjoy it.

*****

Cupid’s Quest

Cupid’s Crossing Book 1

by Lori Soard

Publisher: Grace Nicole Books

Pages: 201

Genre: Inspirational Contemporary Romance

Blurb:

The only life Gracie has ever known has been the nursing home and the residents who are like family to her. Now, she risks losing it all and her friends scattering to different homes if she can’t come up with the money to save the business.

Between caring for his ailing mother and running the family farm, Brandt is stretched thin. Too thin. When his mother begs him to enter a local scavenger hunt, win the prize money, and convert the farm into an orchard, he knows he can’t refuse her anything, so he reluctantly agrees.

While seeking clues to the scavenger hunt, Gracie and Brandt keep bumping into each other. Gracie’s always had a crush on him that keeps her from stringing two coherent words together. Brandt doesn’t understand why she dislikes him so much she won’t even talk to him. If the nursing home residents would settle down and stop getting into crazy shenanigans long enough, the two might figure out that they have more than a little in common.

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CUPID’S QUEST is available at Amazon.
Discuss this book at PUYB Virtual Book Club at Goodreads.

*****

Excerpt:

You are listening to KARE – the radio station that cares about you. If you haven’t picked up one of our Cupid’s Quest Scavenger Hunt forms, stop in at Hart Grocery or the library today to get one. The first person to solve the scavenger hunt wins the grand prize. That’s right, folks, $20,000 and a trip to Hawaii for two, all expenses paid. What are you waiting for? C’mon Cupid’s Corner residents, let the hunt begin.

Gracie Resquire turned the knob and flicked off the radio. $20,000 would save Days Never New Retirement Home and keep the 24 residents from being thrown out of the only home they had. Ever since Walt Jensen from Cupid’s Bank and Trust had broken the news to her that the bank would not extend their mercy any further until payments were caught up, she’d been praying for a solution. The large, remodeled 1920s church that she and her parents had painstakingly turned into a full service retirement home cost more to keep up each month than she brought in and the late payments had quickly gotten out of control. Now, she owed nearly $10,000 to the bank and had no idea how she could ever pay it.

If she could win the scavenger hunt, she could catch up with the mortgage and have some cushion in the bank. Even if it didn’t completely save them, it would keep them in a home for another year or two. For some of these residents, that would be enough. The others she would worry about when and if the time came that she was again unable to stay afloat. Now, she just needed to get the residents on board with the plan and figure out how to solve the scavenger hunt before anyone else did.

*****

Review:

I really enjoyed this book. It’s one of those super sweet, innocent romances where it’s all about getting to know the characters and watching them fall in love. There is no sex and the characters belief in God plays a huge part in everything that they do.

Gracie faith is an influence in almost every minute of her life. She openly prays and listens as God talks to her. Brandt’s relationship with God has taken a beating, with a lot of tragedies happening to those he loves. But meeting Gracie has him rethinking things.

The fact that Gracie has had a thing for Brandt for years, and that he leaves her tongue tied, just tickles me something fierce. She’s so lovable and he’s such a good-hearted man that you just know that they will make a good match. She’s just go to get over her nervousness. Just about anytime they were together I found myself going “ahhh” and smiling.

I also love the motley crew of residents at Gracie’s nursing home. They are a hoot and add a little extra heart to an already touching story. I’m hoping that as we get more books in the series we’ll get to see more of them because they can’t help but be a boost of fun.

For a heartwarming, sweetheart of a story, Cupid’s Quest is a surefire winner. And I’m sure that Soard is going to deliver again with whatever comes next.

*****

Author Info:

Lori Soard has a PhD in Journalism and Creative Writing, but she’s hardly the stuffy professor type. She loves nothing better than a good romantic comedy and thinks the good guy should always win and the ending should always be happy.

From an early age, Lori started honing her story telling skills. As a kid she was rarely seen without a book in her hand, even walking and reading at the same time. Her first stories were about the world around her. At twenty she wrote her first novel, which she admits was horrible. At twenty-one, she sold her first article to a local newspaper. Once she got that taste of having others read her work and realizing that she could reach others and touch their hearts, there was no turning back for this natural born writer.

“If I can make someone’s day just a tiny bit better,” Lori says, “if I can make them smile even though they are sad, make them think things could be better, make them understand how much God loves them, then I have accomplished something. I write my stories, articles and books with that one person in mind who really needs the message. If I can change one person’s perspective, then I’ve succeeded.”

Lori is a life-long Hoosier and lives in southern Indiana with her two daughters, husband and beloved pets. “During the extreme low points in life, it has been my animals that have seen me through. There is nothing like the deep devotion of a dog or the unconditional love of a cat.” Lori adores animals and while some of her dear friends have crossed over the Rainbow Bridge she will always stand by her belief that animals make the world a better place.

Her latest book is the inspirational contemporary romance, Cupid’s Quest.

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