Spotlight – Hell Bent

10 Monday Aug 2015

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Sneak Peek

Tags

Hell Bent, Karen Crompton, South Shore Beach series

I’m so happy to have Karen Crompton with us this morning to answer a few questions and to share her newest – Hell Bent: A Wild Young Adult Romance (South Shore Beach Book 1) – available on Amazon right now for only 99 cents!

*****

What do you like the most about writing romances?

I enjoy the cheeky/flirty side of love, so that’s always fun to write. Readers like to lose themselves in books and I enjoy taking them on that journey.

What is your favorite romantic story?

I absolutely love Jane Austen’s novel, Emma.

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

Abby Abernathy from Beautiful Disaster … because come on, who wouldn’t want Travis Maddox chasing after them.

Which of your characters was the most fun to write?

Corrie’s best friend, Alana, was really fun to write. She’s a bit quirky and loves old movies, quoting lines at the most inopportune times. Most of the time no one has any idea what she’s even talking about, especially her boyfriend, Rake. This of course, proves hilarious for the reader.

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

A ballerina!! (not that I’ve been able to squeeze myself into a pair of tights since I was twelve years old!) But a girl can dream, right?

*****

Hell Bent

South Shore Beach series

by Karen Crompton

Blurb:

He’s charming. He’s rebellious. He’s as beautiful as he is damaged.

South Shore’s bad boy surfer Beau Huntington has a solid plan to get through life: one night stands, copious amounts of alcohol, and walls so high no one can ever get in — it’s all about numbing the pain. And his plan’s working fine — until he meets Corrie Johnson. That’s when things begin to unravel. Because falling in love was never part of the plan.

Angry, bitter and confused, Beau’s violent temper lands him in trouble more often than not — but he’s about to learn that the fight of his life doesn’t involve his fists.
Hell Bent is the journey of one troubled soul, two broken hearts, and the bonds that bind three brothers.

Hell Bent’s sequel – Heaven Sent is due out later in 2015.

Amazon – http://amzn.com/B00PLA5ZJK

Apple – https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/id941977198

*****

Excerpt:

I grin and lean closer. “Dilated pupils normally indicate arousal of some sort, did ya know that?”

“What?” she says, blinking.

I burst out laughing. “You heard me, so maybe your knickers are in more of a twist than you realize.”

She makes a sort of gagging noise. “You’re a walking cliche.”

“I don’t do anything by the book,” I protest.

“Oh really, is your motorbike parked out the front, bad boy? The one you ride shirtless, showing off your impressive abs, your nipple rings and your surfing tattoos. Let me guess … a Yin and Yang no doubt. Or did you scab a ride with one of your stoner friends?”

I instantly see red. She thinks she has me worked out. Stuff that. I’ve done a lot of shit lately, but I don’t do drugs. Never have. And my tattoo is something else all together.

*****

Author Info:

Karen Crompton was born and bred on the Central Coast of NSW, Australia. Hell Bent is her highly accomplished debut novel that explores both the joys of young love and the pain of loss. Having always had a great interest in Young Adult / New Adult films and literature, Karen says that having a book published — one that means so much to her personally — is a dream come true.

www.facebook.com/AuthorKarenCrompton

*****

Bonus Excerpt:

My eyes drop to the floor and my hands press against Corrie’s warm back, pulling her in so close that she can barely move. I frown, confused almost at just how deep I’ve got myself in this.

“What is it?” she asks.

“I know I’m totally wasted and probably talking shit, but meeting you has changed everything. You make me feel, I don’t know, worthy of you or something. Nothing means more to me than you, Corrie. I love you so much.”

A small breath escapes her lips. She’s watching me closely, searching my eyes for something she’s missed, something lost. Doubt washes through me and the thought of the next sentence ever becoming a reality burns a huge gaping hole in my chest.

“Don’t leave me,” I say, my mouth against her ear.

I hold her close again and she rests her head on my shoulder. My eyes get lost in the haze of smoke and mirrors and I know for sure that the time’s finally come. I can’t keep the truth from her any longer. I owe her that much.

Book Review – Pete Sebastian, Coach

08 Saturday Aug 2015

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

≈ 4 Comments

Tags

Book Review, First & Ten series, Jean Joachim, Pete Sebastian Coach

I love football … even fictional football 🙂

*****

PETE SEBASTIAN ANSWERS A FEW QUESTIONS:

Chocolate or vanilla? Chocolate, or course.
Mounds or Almond Joy? What? You don’t expect me to answer that in public, do you?
Steak or lobster? Steak – cooked on the grill.
Oatmeal or scrambled eggs? Chocolate chip pancakes.
Sausage or Bacon? Bacon. Goes better with chocolate.
Airplane or train? Airplane. I hate to waste time.
Walking or driving? Running. Was that an option?
Country or Rock? Country.
Women – brunette, blonde or redhead? Blonde, about five three, nice rack.
Pretty or Witty? Both – smart. Gotta be smart and love football. Sexy wouldn’t hurt. Wait. Maybe that should go first? Nah. Smart first.

*****

Pete Sebastian, Coach

First & Ten Series

by Jean Joachim

GENRE – Sports Romance

PUBLICATION DATE – June, 2015

LENGTH (Pages/# Words) – 66,000 words – 220 pages

PUBLISHER – Secret Cravings Publishing

COVER ARTIST – Dawne Dominique

Blurb:

Pete Sebastian, Coach Bass to his team, thought he had his life under control until smart, alluring Jo Parker sashayed into a front office job with the Connecticut Kings. He locks horns with the beautiful female when she implements new ideas to clean-up the team’s rep. Was she there just to push him around or was she the one woman he’s been seeking?

Struggling toward success in the man’s-man world of the NFL, Jo Parker has relied on her brains and determination to get ahead. But her new job at the Kings has one hurdle she hadn’t counted on – a sexy coach standing in her way. How can she kept her mind on her job when all she wants is to get closer, much closer, to the coach?

Can Coach Bass handle a woman in the boardroom and bedroom? Can he keep his heart safe or will the revelation of a secret destroy his dreams, leaving him alone once more?

Caution: Locker room language.

AMAZON KINDLE US – http://www.amazon.com/Pete-Sebastian-Coach-First-Book-ebook/dp/B00ZAXXGUS/

AMAZON KINDLE CA – http://www.amazon.ca/Pete-Sebastian-Coach-First-Book-ebook/dp/B00ZAXXGUS/

AMAZON KINDLE UK – http://www.amazon.co.uk/Pete-Sebastian-Coach-First-Book-ebook/dp/B00ZAXXGUS/

AMAZON PAPERBACK – http://www.amazon.com/Pete-Sebastian-Coach-First-Ten/dp/1631056417/

BARNES & NOBLES NOOK – http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/pete-sebastian-coach-jean-joachim/1122088468?ean=2940151448949

ITUNES – https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/pete-sebastian-coach/id1009752750?mt=11

GOODREADS – https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25694459-pete-sebastian-coach?ac=1

*****

Character Bios:

PETE SEBASTIAN – Winning the Super Bowl is just the beginning for Coach Bass, as his team calls him. He walks on water, until his world gets turned upside down by a feisty female. When the new V.P. of Publicity turns out to be a gorgeous blonde, Pete is stopped in his tracks.

Raising twin daughters alone after his wife took a powder, Pete has been too busy to be lonely. But now that his girls are off to college, loneliness has become his constant companion. Bed partners are easy to find, but the right woman, one who loves football almost as much as she loves him isn’t easy. So far, he has come up empty.

With a beautiful woman in the office next door, Pete can hardly concentrate on preparing for training camp. All he wants to do is kiss Jo Parker, but she’s tucked away behind a professional demeanor and not going to play his game.

Never one to throw in the towel, Pete has a strategy to win this woman who keeps one step ahead of him. Can the charming, sexy coach win the affections of the elusive Ms. Parker? Or his he destined to continue on playing a solo game?

JO PARKER – Jo Parker is a woman who knows what she wants, right? She thinks she does. A successful woman in the man’s world of NFL front office, Jo has worked hard and taken lots of guff to rise to the level of vice president of publicity.

Her new job at The Connecticut Kings presents a challenge. Not only does she have to clean up the reputation of a team that fired two players for domestic violence, but she has to resist the practically irresistible charms of the coach, Pete Sebastian.

With her pug, Daisy, tucked under her arm, Jo takes Monroe and the Kings by storm. She rolls in, determined to send the players to anger management, to avoid further bad behavior. But they roadblock her at every step. And leading the resistance is the devastatingly handsome, Coach Bass.

Chemistry and mutual attraction short-circuit Ms. Parker’s plans. She finds herself in unfamiliar waters, falling in love. But love is not in her plans. She doesn’t believe in Prince Charming and she’s not about to give up her independence for a roll in the hay.

But loneliness and a hunger for love, born from a sterile childhood, draw her to the warmth and charm of Pete Sebastian. Will she be able to control her emotions, fight through their mutual attraction to focus on the job and only the job?

*****

Excerpt:

Pete stripped down to boxers and donned his running shorts. Not bothering with a shirt, he headed for the beach. There was no way he could get to sleep after his steamy encounter with Jo Parker. Running would clear his mind and calm his body.

He pulled an elastic with his house key on it over his wrist and left. As he walked down the path to the sand, he thought about Jo. Christ, I can’t stop thinking about her! Chilled by the night air, he started to run. He’d known she was sexy, but the way she had surrendered in his arms, well, surprised wasn’t the word. He never thought she’d fall without a major seduction. Flowers, candy, dinners out—now he could forget that. Next date would end in his bed.

Pete could hardly wait. Searching his memory, he couldn’t remember when he had been so turned on so quickly. She’d had him when she’d walked in wearing that sweater. Shit, I could barely keep my eyes or hands off her breasts. Lust had boiled up in his veins when she’d insisted on seeing his bedroom. Standing there with the sea on one side and alluring Jo Parker on the other, a foot from his bed, he could hardly control himself or ignore the protests from his dick.

*****

Review:

I’m so ready for football season to start and I’m loving the influx of football related romances 🙂 With Pete Sebastian, Coach we get it from the coach’s & front office’s POV – a fun change from just players (which I’m not knocking’ btw!).

This is the first of the First & Ten books for me so I don’t know if this is a good representation of Joachim’s work, but from what I’ve seen on different sites she’s got a pretty vocal (and happy) following, which is a good sign. The writing isn’t the tightest that I’ve read but the story is very satisfying and the characters have struggles that readers can get behind. Both Pete and Jo have their moments of stupidity – and Jo’s penchant to run when trouble strikes doesn’t do anyone any good – but they also have very real and touching moments.

Pete’s put his love life on hold while he raised twin daughters on his own, but now they are off to college and he’s ready to fill that empty spot. What he didn’t count on was finding someone in the team’s office that hits him quite like Jo does. Jo has spent years fighting for her place in a man’s world and she’s a success but at the expense of her dating life. Meeting Coach Bass starts something that quickly takes off.

I really liked these two together – yes, I wanted to smack them when they were being dumb but I also wanted to give them a hug, which means I was involved and that’s always a good thing 🙂 Again, there were moments when the phrasing wasn’t the smoothest, but for me it was easily overshadowed by the characters and the plot. I’ll definitely be keeping my eye on Joachim – I expect lots of good things to come!

*****

Author Info:

Jean Joachim is a best-selling romance fiction author, with books hitting the Amazon Top 100 list since 2012. The Renovated Heart won Best Novel of the Year from Love Romances Café. Lovers & Liars was a RomCon finalist in 2013. And The Marriage List tied for third place as Best Contemporary Romance from the Gulf Coast RWA. She was chosen Author of the Year in 2012 by the New York City chapter of Romance Writers of America.

Married and the mother of two sons, Jean lives in New York City. Early in the morning, you’ll find her at her computer, writing, with a cup of tea, her rescued put, Homer, by her side and a secret stash of black licorice.

AUTHOR FOLLOW LINKS

AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE – http://www.amazon.com/Jean-C.-Joachim/e/B001ITRQKY/

WEBSITE – http://www.jeanjoachimbooks.com

BLOG – http://jeanjoachim.blogspot.com

FACEBOOK – https://www.facebook.com/pages/Jean-Joachim-Author/221092234568929

TWITTER – http://www.twitter.com/jeanjoachim

GOOGLE+ – https://plus.google.com/u/0/111423777977819826895/

PINTEREST – http://www.pinterest.com/jeanjoachim/

NETWORKED BLOGS – http://jeanjoachim.blogspot.com

GOODREADS – https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/334810.Jean_C_Joachim

*****

Giveaway:

$10.00 Amazon Gift Card

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/9944253c168/

*****

Spotlight – Heroes Are My Weakness

04 Tuesday Aug 2015

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Contest, Sneak Peek

≈ 1 Comment

Tags

Heroes Are My Weakness, Susan Elizabeth Phillips

SEP has been one of my favorite authors for a long time – Lady Be Good is my all time favorite (Kenny and Emma are absolutely delightful together), but the Chicago Stars series (starting with It Had To Be You) comes a close second … although I can’t forget Match Me If You Can which is fantastic … and I get a giggle thinking about … ya know, I’ll just say I love them all 🙂

And even though I haven’t read this one (YET), it is getting some great press so I’m sure it is going to be a winner!

*****

Heroes Are My Weakness

by Susan Elizabeth Phillips

Releasing Sept 28^th, 2015

Mass Market Paperback

Avon Romance

Blurb:

The dead of winter. An isolated island off the coast of Maine. A man. A woman. A sinister house looming over the sea … He’s a reclusive writer whose macabre imagination creates chilling horror novels. She’s a down-on-her-luck actress reduced to staging kids’ puppet shows. He knows a dozen ways to kill with his bare hands. She knows a dozen ways to kill with laughs. But she’s not laughing now. When she was a teenager, he terrified her. Now they’re trapped together on a snowy island off the coast of Maine. Is he the villain she remembers or has he changed? Her head says no. Her heart says yes. It’s going to be a long, hot winter.

Link to Follow Tour: http://www.tastybooktours.com/2015/07/heroes-are-my-weakness-by-susan.html

Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23215475-heroes-are-my-weakness-intl

Buy Links: Amazon | B&N | BAM

*****

Excerpt:

Annie didn’t usually talk to her suitcase, but she wasn’t exactly herself these days. The high beams of her headlights could barely penetrate the dark, swirling chaos of the winter blizzard, and the windshield wipers on her ancient Kia were no match for the wrath of the storm that had hit the island. “It’s only a little snow,” she told the oversize red suitcase wedged into the passenger seat. “Just because it feels like the end of the world doesn’t mean it is.”

You know I hate the cold, her suitcase replied, in the annoying whine of a child who preferred making a point by stamping her foot. How could you bring me to this awful place?

Because Annie had run out of options.

An icy blast rocked the car, and the branches of the old fir trees hovering over the unpaved road whipped like witches’ hair. Annie decided that anybody who believed in hell as a fiery furnace had it all wrong. Hell was this bleak, hostile winter island.

You’ve never heard of Miami Beach? Crumpet, the spoiled princess in the suitcase retorted. Instead you had to haul us off to a deserted island in the middle of the North Atlantic where we’ll probably get eaten by polar bears!

The gears ground as the Kia struggled up the narrow, slippery island road. Annie’s head ached, her ribs hurt from coughing, and the simple act of craning her neck to peer through a clear spot on the windshield made her dizzy. She was alone in the world with only the imaginary voices of her ventriloquist dummies anchoring her to reality. As sick as she was, she didn’t miss the irony.

She conjured up the more calming voice of Crumpet’s counterpart, the practical Dilly, who was tucked away in the matching red suitcase in the backseat. We’re not the middle of the Atlantic, sensible Dilly said. We’re on an island ten miles off the New England coast, and the last I heard, Maine doesn’t have polar bears. Besides, Peregrine Island isn’t deserted.

It might as well be. If Crumpet had been on Annie’s arm, she would have shot her small nose up in the air. People barely survive here in the middle of the summer let alone winter. I bet they eat their dead for food.

The car fishtailed ever so slightly. Annie corrected the skid, gripping the wheel more tightly through her gloves. The heater barely worked, but she’d begun to perspire under her jacket.

You mustn’t keep complaining, Crumpet, Dilly admonished her peevish counterpart. Peregrine Island is a popular summer resort.

It’s not summer! Crumpet countered. It’s the first week of February, we just drove off a car ferry that made me seasick, and there can’t be more than fifty people left here. Fifty stupid people!

You know Annie had no choice but to come here, Dilly said.

Because she’s a big failure, an unpleasant male voice sneered.

Leo had a bad habit of uttering Annie’s deepest fears, and it was inevitable that he’d intrude into her thoughts. He was her least favorite puppet, but every story needed a villain.

Very unkind, Leo, Dilly said. Even if it is true.

*****

Author Info:

Susan Elizabeth Phillips soars onto the New York Times bestseller list with every new publication. She’s the only four-time recipient of the Romance Writers of America’s prestigious Favorite Book of the Year Award. Susan delights fans by touching hearts as well as funny bones with her wonderfully whimsical and modern fairy tales. A resident of the Chicago suburbs, she is also a wife, and mother of two grown sons.

Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

*****

Giveaway:

Surprise SEP Romance Prize Pack

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/521ac4c8748/

*****

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

Spotlight – Heart’s Chord

01 Saturday Aug 2015

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Contest, Sneak Peek

≈ 1 Comment

Tags

Charity Parkerson, Heart's Chord, Ugly Eternity series

Gonna be a busy Saturday 🙂 We’ve got two great new books to look at so here we go!

First up we have Heart’s Chord … if the blurb doesn’t draw you in, I’m sure those sexy tattoos will.

*****

Heart’s Chord

SERIES – Ugly Eternity, 5

AUTHOR – Charity Parkerson

GENRE – M/M GBLT Romance

PUBLICATION DATE – July 6, 2015

LENGTH (Pages/# Words) – 122/23829

PUBLISHER – Punk & Sissy Publications

COVER ARTIST – Charity Parkerson for Punk & Sissy Publications art department

Blurb:

Even though he already has more to do than there are hours in the day, Finn has no problem adding Austen to his life. The sexy former marine is the only good thing that’s happened to Finn in a long time.

For Austen, Finn is the perfect man. If he sees anything lacking in Austen, he never shows it. But falling in love with Finn changes everything for Austen. All the insecurities he’s faced since he has come home from deployment confined to a wheelchair come rushing back to the surface. No matter how hard he tries, he can’t let Finn in.

When Finn decides he’s had enough of not being enough, and his dreams come crashing down around him, he’s ready to walk away from everything for good. But he never counted on Austen’s reaction to losing him, or how far his Ugly Eternity family will go to make his dreams a reality.

**Author note**

This is an Ugly Eternity bonus story. It can be read as a standalone.

BUY & TBR LINKS

AMAZON KINDLE US – http://bit.ly/HeartsChord

AMAZON KINDLE CA – http://bit.ly/HeartsChordCA

AMAZON KINDLE UK – http://bit.ly/HeartsChordUK

AMAZON PAPERBACK – http://bit.ly/HeartsChordPBA

GOODREADS – http://bit.ly/HeartsChordGR

*****

Excerpt:

“You need some posters or a mural or something on the ceiling in here,” Finn mused aloud after a few minutes.

“Why’s that?”

Finn squinted at the offending blank ceiling, attempting to picture the perfect art as he answered. “Judging by your incredibly sexy body, you spend a lot of time in here. You need something to focus on. There’re some studies that suggest visual stimuli is directly linked to physical health.”

“What do you think of these studies?”

At the curiosity in Austen’s voice, Finn rolled onto his side and up onto his elbow. His gaze swept down Austen’s body, taking in every hardened line and scar. His cock lengthened as hunger rose inside him. This man was under his skin. There wasn’t one particular attribute he could point to in order to explain his insane desire to touch Austen, but it was there. When he met Austen’s stare, there was no way Finn could hide his desire. “I think a little visual stimulation has never hurt anyone.”

Austen’s mouth quirked in one corner at Finn’s claim. “The view in here is looking pretty damn good right now.”

Finn wanted to kiss him. His lips tingled with longing, but sometimes, Austen didn’t invite Finn’s touch. He didn’t know how to explain it. There were moments when Austen’s expression remained closed, shutting Finn out—times such as now. Tearing himself away from temptation, Finn settled down beside Austen once more, going back to staring into space. “I can’t hang around all day, but maybe I can figure out something else. Maybe there’s a book somewhere about images for every environment.”

He felt Austen tense beside him a split second before Austen’s mouth came down upon his—hard and hot. Surprise gave way to lust in an instant as Finn opened for him. Finn flattened his palms against the floor beside him to keep from reaching for Austen. His skin itched to be closer, but he didn’t want to ruin the moment, and it seemed like he always did somehow.

*****

Author Info:

Charity Parkerson is an award winning and multi-published author with Ellora’s Cave Publishing, Indie Publishing House LLC, and Punk & Sissy Publications. Born with no filter from her brain to her mouth, she decided to take this odd quirk and insert it in her characters.

*2015 Passionate Plume Finalist for Paranormal Erotica

*Winner of 2, 2014 Readers’ Favorite Awards

*2015 Golden Flogger BDSM Award Finalist

*2013 Readers’ Favorite Award Winner

*2013 Reviewers’ Choice Award Winner

*2012 ARRA Finalist for Favorite Paranormal Romance

*Five-time winner of The Mistress of the Darkpath

AUTHOR FOLLOW LINKS

Amazon Author Page – amazon.com/author/charityparkerson

Website/Blog – http://www.charityparkerson.com

Fan email: admin@charityparkerson.com

Facebook – http://www.facebook.com/authorCharityParkerson

Twitter – http://www.twitter.com/charityparkerso

Google+ – google.com/+CharityParkersonAuthor

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

Tumblr – http://thesinnerauthor.tumblr.com/

Networked Blogs – http://www.networkedblogs.com/blog/the-sinners-series

Goodreads – https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4506281.Charity_Parkerson

Shelfari – http://www.shelfari.com/authors/a2942626/Charity-Parkerson/

Others – http://www.coffeetimeromance.com/OurAuthors/CharityParkerson.html

https://www.ellorascave.com/author/charity-parkerson

http://passionateink.org/forum/index.php?showuser=2945

*****

Giveaway:

$10 Amazon Gift Card

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/9944253c167/

*****

Book Review – Blind Love

30 Thursday Jul 2015

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

≈ 1 Comment

Tags

Blind Love, Book Review, Kishan Paul

Y’all I loved this one and I’m not the only one – there are a TON of great reviews for it. Make sure you check it out!

*****

Blind Love

by Kishan Paul

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Publisher: Samhain

Date of Publication: June 2, 2015

ISBN: 9781619226845

ASIN: B00WYTF3IO

Number of pages: 260 pgs

Word Count: 77,713

Cover Artist: Kanaxa

Blurb:

She doesn’t need a hero. But a sexy Marine…that’ll work.

Though Lauren Baxter’s world is a blurry mess of colors, she has no tolerance for pity. With the help of her guide dog, Jack Sparrow, she’s built a good life for herself. She has everything she wants: her PhD, a thriving counseling practice and her independence.

When she meets her new neighbor, the man’s warm Texas accent and clean male scent weaken her knees. Her attraction to the former Marine is mutual and, unfortunately, a complication she doesn’t need.

Gabriel Briggs carries the weight of the world on his shoulders. He has his reasons for indulging only in short-term flings, but the feisty, green-eyed Lauren makes him want to forget every one.

In a rare moment of fragility, Lauren winds up in Gabe’s arms. One night together can’t break their self-imposed rules, right? But when a woman from Gabe’s past is murdered, the reasons he should have stayed away become painfully clear, threatening innocent lives he may not be able to save—especially Lauren’s.

Product Warnings:

Contains a blind therapist who doesn’t consider herself impaired; a meddling, erotic-novel-writing best friend; a hot ex-Marine with a shady past; and a loyal guide dog that howls “I love you” and is probably the sanest one of the bunch.

Book Trailer: https://youtu.be/XPlVj2TzZVA

Samhain Amazon ARe Kobo BN

Kishan Paul Voted as Best New Author for Smexy and Fabulous Beach Summer Reads

Blind Love came in second place for Contemporary Romance in the Smexy and Fabulous Beach Summer Reads

Blind Love Chosen as the Best Book of June, 2015 o Goodreads

Blind Love Included in the Top Ten Books of June by Platywire Reviews

*****

Excerpt:

Gabe locked the front door and headed to his pickup. The decision was made. He needed to move his pitiful ass into the cabin immediately. A woman he barely knew had him confessing things he’d never told anyone else, and the scariest part: he caught himself reconsidering nonnegotiable promises. Those were fantasies he couldn’t afford. Not when other lives counted on him. He glanced over at her place and stopped dead in his tracks.

Speak of the devil.

Hands on her hips, Lauren stood talking to the cabbie parked in her driveway. Her hair was twisted in a knot. The dark blue, strapless summer dress she wore had his gaze lingering over her long neck and tanned shoulders. His mouth watered at the memory of how sweet her covered parts tasted last night.

There was something about her that hooked him. Yes, she was beautiful, but there was more. It was how her eyes crinkled when she laughed. All the smart-ass things she’d say. The soothing way her voice melted his guard. And when she touched him, it was as if she was sticking her hands inside him, picking up every one of his painful pieces, and for just a little while gluing them back together.

What the fuck am I saying?

He looked away and continued to his truck. She’d find the right person one day, and whoever the man was would be one lucky bastard.

“I’m sorry, ma’am. I can’t help you,” the cabbie said.

Gabe put the last of the supplies into the large metal toolbox and padlocked the lid.

“He’s a guide dog. Isn’t it against the law for you to refuse services because of him?” Lauren asked.

He bit back his urge to help.

For him, the girl spelled trouble.

“The sign right there says no animals.” The driver pointed to the backseat window.

She grinned. “And if I wasn’t blind, I’m sure I would have seen it.”

Gabe chuckled. He loved her fake smile. Leaning against the truck, he watched the performance.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t—I mean, you don’t look blind.”

Still grinning, she cleared her throat and pulled on the dog’s harness. “I am. Which is why I need my guide dog. He goes everywhere with me.”

The beast raised its ears and looked at Gabe. He averted his eyes, pulled off his baseball cap and tucked it into his jean pocket. Her monster of a pet was making him feel guilty as hell.

“I’m sorry, but I’m allergic to animals. He can’t come in my taxi.”

“I can pay you extra for your troubles. The place is a few blocks after the highway. It would only be ten minutes of your time.”

“Look, ma’am. It’s not going to happen. If you want, I’ll call another car to pick you up.”

After a long pause, she shook her head and bit her lip. “No, it’s fine. I understand. Thank you.”

A few seconds later, the cab pulled away. Lauren stood cross-armed, staring out.

Gabe gripped the truck to make sure his legs didn’t get any crazy ideas.

This is not my problem. Maybe if he said it enough times, he’d believe it.

“Come on, Jack. It’s time for Plan B,” she said and grabbed the dog’s holster.

Plan what?

Stunned, he watched the two stroll down the road. She said the place was a few blocks after the highway. Which meant they’d be walking alongside one of the busiest boulevards in Denver for a few yards before she’d ever reach the interstate. He looked at his watch. Four fifty, on a Friday afternoon. The two would be smack dab in front of the I25 overpass during rush hour traffic—a dangerous situation for anyone, much less a blind woman.

She wouldn’t, would she?

When Lauren got to the end of the street and turned left, he cursed under his breath.

Yeah, she would.

*****

Review:

I don’t know why the suspense element surprised me as much as it did – I mean, it is spelled out in the blurb that there was a murder – I guess I wasn’t expecting it to be so involved. But I really enjoyed it. It played well into Lauren and Gabe’s issues, helping to resolve a lot of things and not seem forced.

And the characters are as interesting as the storyline. I love that Lauren is independent and has a good head on her shoulders, is able to apply her brain to Gabe’s issues (not just her heart), but I also really loved that she’s human and screws up. She’s had a tough life but she hasn’t let it slow her down – sometimes to the detriment of her relationships. Gabe’s got a lot of issues too, mostly stemming from a not so great childhood. Like everyone, he’s made some choices that have long reaching impact … although his consequences are pretty severe.

There were a lot of giggles and a truckload of tears, a few moments on the edge of my seat and a couple of times where my heart went pitter, which to me makes Blind Love a winner and Paul one of my new authors to watch.

*****

Author Info:

From daring escapes by tough women to chivalrous men swooping in to save the day, the creativity switch to Kishan Paul’s brain is always in the ‘on’ position. If daydreaming stories were a college course, Kish would graduate with honors.

Mother of two beautiful children, she has been married to her best friend for over 16 years. With the help of supportive family and friends, she balances her family, a thriving counseling practice, and writing without sinking into insanity.

To keep in touch with Kish:

Website: http://kishanpaul.net

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/@kishan_paul

TSU: https://www.tsu.co/kishanpaul

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

Coffee Talk: http://www.coffeetalkwriters.com/coffee-talk-authors/kishan-paul/

*****

Tour Info:

July 27 Spotlight

I Love Books

http://jolandaloves2read.blogspot.nl/

July 27 Spotlight

Mythical Books

http://www.mythicalbooks.blogspot.ro/

July 27 Spotlight and review

A Bookaholic’s Fix: Feeding the Addiction

https://bookaholicfix.wordpress.com

July 28 Review

Romantic Fanatic

http://romanticfanaticblog.com/

July 28 Spotlight

Around the World in Books

www.aroundtheworldinbooks.ca

July 29 Spotlight

Books Books and More Books

http://booksbooksmorebooks.blogspot.com/

July 30 Interview and review

Books, Booze, and BDSM

http://booksboozeandbdsm.com/

July 30 Review

Books and Authors

http://bookreviewsandauthors.blogspot.com/

July 30 Review

Romantic Reads and Such

http://romanticreadsandsuch.wordpress.com

July 31 Interview

Shut Up and Read

http://shutupandreadgroup.blogspot.com/

August 3 Interview

ARe Café

www.arecafe.com

August 3 Spotlight

Zenny’s Awesome Book Reviews

https://zennysawesomebookreviews.wordpress.com/

August 3 Spotlight (review later)

Happy Ever After Book Reviews

http://gwynplum.com

Book Review – The Perfect Bargain

24 Friday Jul 2015

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

≈ 1 Comment

Tags

Book Review, How to Marry a Highlander series, Jessa McAdams, Julia London, The Perfect Bargain

Now we have the perfect lighthearted and fun summer ready … about a man in a skirt 🙂

*****

The Perfect Bargain

How to Marry a Highlander # 1

by: Julia London writing as Jessa McAdams

Releasing June 30, 2015

Entangled: Lovestruck

Blurb:

American lass seeks brawny Scot…

As if being newly single isn’t brutal enough, Sloane Chatfield’s friends are getting obnoxious about setting her up. When Sloane insists she’s waiting for a certain sexy fictional Highlander to come along, her friends surprise her with a trip to Scotland to find her a new boyfriend. She’d rather have a root canal. But if she can find a Highland hunk to “break her heart” before her friends arrive…

In a remote Highland village, Galen Buchanan is struggling to keep the family pub afloat. Everything is falling apart, he’s running out of money, and now there’s an opinionated American lass parked at his best table, driving him mad. But then Sloane asks Galen to be her pretend Highland boyfriend…and offers him enough money to save the pub. It’s only for a few days, he figures. What’s the worst that could happen?

Link to Follow Tour: http://www.tastybooktours.com/2015/06/the-perfect-bargain-how-to-marry.html

Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25582923-the-perfect-bargain?from_search=true&search_version=service_impr

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

*****

Excerpt:

“I happen to be quite good at sizing people up, and you, lass, are spoiled. Donna take it personally—it’s an American thing,” he said casually, as if that were a foregone conclusion.

Now Sloane was indignant.“Watch yourself, Braveheart,” she said, poking him in the arm. “And anyway, how is that even remotely an American thing?”

“It’s the way Americans view the rest of the world,” he said. “Americans think the Loch Ness monster exists, and that we all live in the Highlands in a Braveheart movie. Or, you all read Trainspotting in school and think we’re all on drugs. You think Scots believe in unicorns and our national pastime is the caber toss, and our calendars are manly men in kilts holding kittens.”

“Is there really a calendar like that?” she asked, perking up. If there was, she’d be picking one up before she headed back to the States.

All she got in response to that was an I-told-you-so look.

*****

Review:

Someone described this book to me as a sweet and light hearted read, perfect for when you are tired of all the angst … and boy was she right. Now, I knew going in that this book would be great – I absolutely adore Julia London, doesn’t matter if it is contemporary or historical or even what name is on the cover  Her characters are gripping and the stories are always page-turners, and The Perfect Bargain is no different.

I was totally enthralled by Sloane and Galen as they bickered and sniped and slowly fell in love – because you know all of that snark was hiding things that involved the heart. A definite case of opposites attract, as they got to know each other more they started to realize (of course) that they have a lot more in common than they thought. And that what they believed about themselves and what they truly want may not be right.

I have to say that my only complaint is that the books focused on them and we really didn’t get a chance to get to know anyone else in the little village. I think that there was definitely a chance to show that small town Scottish quirkiness, but I’m hoping this is the start of a series so we can see that more down the road.

If you are looking for fun and romance, humor and heart, look no further. Once again London delivers all of that in spades and gives you a little of Highland flair … because who doesn’t love a man who speaks with a brogue and looks great in a kilt!

*****

Author Info:

Julia London is the New York Times, USA Today, and Publisher’s Weekly bestselling author of more than thirty romantic fiction novels. She is the author of the popular Cabot Sisters historical series, including The Trouble with Honor, The Devil Takes a Bride, and the The Scoundrel and the Debutante. She is also the author of several acclaimed contemporary romances, including The Cedar Springs series, and the recent Homecoming Ranch, Return to Homecoming Ranch, and The Perfect Homecoming. Julia has added a short contemporary series to her titles as well, including The Perfect Bargain, writing under the name Jessa McAdams.

Julia is the recipient of the RT Bookclub Award for Best Historical Romance and a four time finalist for the prestigious RITA award for excellence in romantic fiction. To keep up with all the Julia London news, please visit http://www.julialondon.com. Follow her on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/julialondon

Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads

*****

Giveaway:

Grand Prize: $100.00 Amazon eGift Card.

Five Runners Up: #GOKILT Mug

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/1cb55495572/

*****

Click on the banner below to see the rest of the tour

Spotlight – Chasing Jillian

23 Thursday Jul 2015

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Contest, Sneak Peek

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

Chasing Jillian, Julie Brannagh, Love and Football series

Y’all, I love Seth and Jillian together. I can’t wait for you get to meet them!

*****

Chasing Jillian

Love and Football # 5

by Julie Brannagh

Releasing July 7, 2015

Avon Impulse

Blurb

Jillian Miller likes her job working in the front office for the Seattle Sharks, but lately being surrounded by a constant parade of perfection only seems to make her own imperfections all the more obvious. She needs a change, which takes her into foreign territory: the Sharks’ workout facility after hours. The last thing she expects is a hot, grumbly god among men to be there as witness.

Star linebacker Seth Taylor had a bad day-well, a series of them recently. When he hits the Sharks’ gym to work out his frustration, he’s startled to find someone there-and even more surprised that it’s Jillian, the team owner’s administrative assistant. When he learns of Jillian’s mission to revamp her lifestyle, he finds himself volunteering to help. Something about Jillian’s beautiful smile and quick wit makes him want to stick around. She may not be like the swimsuit models he usually has on his arm, but the more time Seth spends with Jillian the harder he falls.

And as Jillian discovers that the new her is about so much more than she sees in the mirror, can she discover that happiness and love are oh-so-much better than perfect?

Link to Follow Tour: http://www.tastybooktours.com/2015/06/chasing-jillian-love-and-football-5-by.html

Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22608144-chasing-jillian?ac=1

Goodreads Series Link: https://www.goodreads.com/series/112833-love-and-football

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

*****

Excerpt:

She hurried over to the laptop on the little desk in the kitchen, pulled up Google, and searched on Seth’s name. She sank into a chair while she read. He was six foot four, and she practically weighed as much as he did. Well, not quite, but still. She let out a long sigh. He was two years younger than she was. It also seemed Seth had been busy: He was single. “Very single,” according to one of the most recent fan websites she looked at. In Google Images, she found a series of photos of him with multiple tall, dark-haired women, each more gorgeous than the last.

Jillian shut the laptop lid with an irritated “click”, got up from her chair, and hurried into the bathroom. She’d stood in front of a full-length mirror so many times, but it always showed her the same thing. She wasn’t unattractive, but she could use a little more self-confidence and a lot more toning. She wasn’t asking for physical perfection, but she’d like to make some changes. If she made a plan, started slowly and kept at it, she’d see a difference. The biggest changes needed to start on the inside, though. Maybe if she got out a little more, she might meet a guy that was interested in her. Seth was gorgeous, but he wasn’t really in her universe. Jillian went into the kitchen, grabbed a frozen low-calorie dinner out of the freezer, ripped the cardboard lid off, and shoved it into the microwave. Dinner would taste a whole lot better if it was accompanied by half a bag of chips and some Ranch dip. But that wasn’t an option right now. She opened the refrigerator door to look for a fresh vegetable of some type.

She pushed the fridge door shut after a fruitless search and rummaged around in her apartment’s tiny pantry. She located a can of peas. Peas were good. Plus, there weren’t many calories in peas. Maybe she could fill up on them if the diet dinner didn’t cut it.

Jillian’s love-hate relationship with her body and food had started when she was little. Most of the time, there wasn’t enough to eat. She ended up in a foster home at three years old after her mother died in a car wreck, and she was moved a few times before she entered elementary school. Things got a little better for Jillian when she was placed in a more permanent foster home, but she was still so hungry. No matter how much she ate, she wanted more. When she was old enough to make her own money, she made sure there was more than enough, and that’s when the problems began. Even more than a diet or a new workout regime, she needed to focus on the great things in her life. She’d build a healthier lifestyle as a result. Even more than a diet or a new workout regime, change from the inside would last a lot longer. She wanted to build on the goals she’d already achieved and reach out for more of the things she wanted in life: A husband. A family. To belong

*****

Author Info:

USA Today Bestselling Author, Julie Brannagh has been writing since she was old enough to hold a pencil. She lives in a small town near Seattle, where she once served as a city council member and owned a yarn shop. She shares her home with a wonderful husband, two uncivilized Maine Coons and a rambunctious chocolate Lab.

When she’s not writing, she’s reading, or armchair-quarterbacking her favorite NFL team from the comfort of the family room couch. Julie is a Golden Heart finalist and the author of contemporary sports romances.

Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

*****

Giveaway:

Digital Bundle of the Love and Football Series Books 1 – 4

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/521ac4c8725/

*****

Click on the banner below for the rest of the tour

Spotlight – Over the Top

20 Monday Jul 2015

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Contest, Sneak Peek

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

Maverick Montana series, Over the Top, Rebecca Zanetti

In honor of her latest, Rebecca Zanetti has provided us a wonderful country playlist to get in the mood for Over the Top. If cowboys are your thing, you have got to check out the below!

Austin – Blake Sheldon Tell Me How You Like It – Florida Georgia Line What We Ain’t Got – Jake Owen Back to December – Taylor Swift Thinking of You – Christian Kane Redneck Crazy – Tyler Farr Get Me Some of That – Thomas Rhett See You Tonight – Scotty McCreery Carolina – Parmalee The Guy Who Says Goodbye to You – Griffin House Wish I Would Have Said That – Williams Riley Colder Weather – Zac Brown Band That’s My Kind of Night – Luke Bryan Pull Me Back – Leah Turner You Don’t Know Her Like I Do – Brantley Gilbert Compass – Lady Antebellum The House That Built Me – Miranda Lambert Stay – Florida Georgia Line Whatever She’s Got – David Nail

*****

Over the Top

by Rebecca Zanetti

Maverick Montana #4

Publication Date: July 21, 2015

Genres: Contemporary, Romance

Blurb:

Dawn Freeze had a huge crush on Hawk Rain for years, and the entire town knows it. It’s understandable– the man is total hotness. That tall, lean body. Intense dark eyes. And always one foot out the door. Now he’s on leave for exactly one week. And this time, he’s made it crystal clear that he only wants one thing. Her.

Hawk’s been fighting his attraction to Dawn for as long as he can remember. She’s his best friend’s little sister, and that means hands-off. Except now she’s all grown up, and her sweet sexiness is exactly what he craves. But just as Hawk allows himself one mindblowingly intense night with Dawn, he learns that everyone he loves is in danger. Especially her.

And the only way to protect Dawn is to push her away…

Amazon: http://amzn.to/1CFb7Fc

Amazon UK: http://amzn.to/1Di94li

Amazon CA: http://amzn.to/1CFbfEQ

B&N: http://bit.ly/1LkyKEe

Kobo: http://bit.ly/1I4BJja

iBooks: http://apple.co/1HPcj4A

Goodreads: http://bit.ly/1V5wK7E

*****

Excerpt:

Dawn stilled. She blinked and then narrowed her focus to his face. “Why not?”

Because the woman had crushed on him big time, and that didn’t just go away. “I don’t want to hurt you.”

Her smile held a hint of danger. “Do I look hurt?”

Hell no. She looked like an angel fully prepared to sin. “You know what I mean.”

She bit her lip, and he wanted to groan. Again. “I really don’t know, Hawk. Last time I checked, we were just friends. You made that abundantly clear last year.”

Yeah, he had. He’d said those exact words to her after Colt and Melanie’s wedding, figuring there wasn’t a chance in hell he’d survive his last job and make it home. Yet here he was. “I just wanted to make sure we were on the same page.” He sounded like an asshole, damn it.

Then she smiled, and he forgot to breathe. Again. “We’re on the same page,” she murmured.

The end of the bar slammed open, and Adam strode around with a thick blue ski jacket in his hands. “Damn, Hawk. It’s good to see you.”

Hawk nodded and leaned over for a manly half-hug. “Ditto. We’ll have to have a drink sometime this week.”

“Name the night, and I’m here.” Adam turned toward Dawn. “Sorry I took so long.”

Hawk frowned and eyed the bar owner. The guy was well over six foot, built tough, and smiling way too gently. “Took so long?” Hawk asked.

Dawn chuckled. “Were you counting your money from tonight? Miser?”

Adam grinned, flashing what people probably thought was a charming dimple. “I’ve asked you repeatedly to stop calling me that.” He helped Dawn into the thick jacket. “You ready?” His smile relaxed his usually hard face.

Dawn patted Adam’s flat stomach and turned back to Hawk. “I think so. Are we done?”

Hawk slowly nodded. “Yeah.” Almost in a daze, he followed Adam and Dawn from the bar, waiting until Adam locked up. How could they be dating? Did Colton know about that? How could this have happened so quickly? “You two have a nice night.”

“Thanks.” Dawn smiled, and the duo ran through the sleet and across the street to a black Chevy pickup against the opposite curb. Adam opened the driver’s door, and Dawn jumped up, scooting across the seat. Two seconds later, Adam started the engine and drove the truck down the deserted main street of town.

Hawk watched them until the truck disappeared. Snow and freezing rain smashed down, and he didn’t care. Heat exploded in his chest, forcing him to take several deep breaths to calm himself.

All he’d wanted to do was explain to Dawn that he respected her and would never hurt her feelings as a friend. The last thing he expected was to find himself standing in the rain with his dick in his hand.

*****

Author Info:

New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author Rebecca Zanetti has worked as an art curator, Senate aide, lawyer, college professor, and a hearing examiner – only to culminate it all in stories about Alpha males and the women who claim them. She writes dark paranormals, romantic suspense, and sexy contemporary romances.

Website • Twitter • Facebook • Goodreads

*****

Giveaway:

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/5440a354465/

*****

Tour Schedule:

–

July 20- Romantic Reads and Such– Excerpt

July 20– Undercover Book Reviews– Spotlight

July 20– Fictional Rendezvous Book Blog– Excerpt

July 20– Wild and Dirty Book Blog– Review

July 20– Lynn’s Romance Enthusiasm– Review / Spotlight

July 20– Thoughts At One In The Morning– Review / Excerpt / Spotlight

–

July 21– KT Book Reviews– Excerpt

July 21– Mostly YA Book Obsessed– Review

July 21– Books Laid Bare– Review

July 21– Sultry, Steamy Reading– Review

July 21– Bottles & Books Reviews– Review / Excerpt / Spotlight

July 21– Southern Yankee Book Reviews– Review / Excerpt

–

July 22– Jacklynn Love’s Reading!!!– Excerpt / Spotlight

July 22– She Hearts Books– Review

July 22– Wicked Babes Blog Reviews– Review

July 22– E-Reading After Midnight– Review / Spotlight

July 22– Best Book Boyfriends– Review / Excerpt

–

July 23– Obsessed by Books– Excerpt

July 23– Deal Sharing Aunt– Spotlight

July 23– Nerd Girl Official– Excerpt

July 23– My Favorite Things– Excerpt

July 23– Short and Sassy Book Blurbs- Review

July 23– Read, Write, Ripley– Review

July 23– Sleep Deprived Book Lovers– Review

–

July 24– Authors & Readers Book Corner– Excerpt

July 24– Nose Stuck in a Book– Review

July 24– A One-Click Addict’s Book Blog– Review

July 24– Jen’s Reading Obsession– Review / Excerpt

July 24– Romance Readers Book Blog– Review / Excerpt / Spotlight

July 24– Living In Our Own Story– Review / Excerpt / Spotlight

Spotlight – Love & Happiness

18 Saturday Jul 2015

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Contest, Sneak Peek

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

Ben Burgess Jr, Love & Happiness

HEA doesn’t come cheap and requires you to work for it …

*****

Love and Happiness

by Ben Burgess Jr.

African American Fiction/ Urban Fiction

PUBLICATION DATE – April 24^th 2015

LENGTH (Pages/# Words) – 240 Pages

PUBLISHER – Self Published (CreateSpace/IngramSpark)

COVER ARTIST – Leah Friday

Blurb:

Karen has it all: a handsome husband, beautiful twin daughters, a lovely home and a great job. Karen also has a secret; she’s cheating on her husband, with not one man, but two. On the outside her life seems perfect, but on the inside Karen feels neglected, bored and unappreciated. Yearning for affection and excitement, she falls into the arms of first Raheem and then Tyrell. Out of fear of losing her husband and breaking up her family, Karen ends the affairs but things don’t turn out how she planned. When Karen’s dirty secrets are revealed she must fight to keep her family together. Chris is doing all he can to hold his marriage together. He loves Karen but she grows more distant every day. When she starts coming home later and later, he suspects she is being unfaithful. When Chris accidentally takes her cell phone what he finds changes their lives forever. When tragedy strikes, Karen must decide if she should sacrifice her happiness for her husband’s love, and Chris wonders if he should stay with Karen because he still loves her despite her infidelity. But if they do stay together, will they ever find love and happiness again? Sexy and relatable, insightful and inspiring, Love and Happiness shows us both sides of Chris and Karen’s story, and reminds us that sometimes to have it all, you must first lose it all.

AMAZON KINDLE US – http://www.amazon.com/Love-Happiness-Ben-Burgess-Jr-ebook/dp/B00WNRZ6HU/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&sr=8-2&qid=1430702453

AMAZON KINDLE UK – http://www.amazon.co.uk/Love-Happiness-Ben-Burgess-Jr-ebook/dp/B00WNRZ6HU/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8

BARNES & NOBLES NOOK – http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/love-and-happiness-ben-burgess-jr/1121807880?ean=9780988374553&itm=1&usri=ben+burgess+jr&cm_mmc=AFFILIATES-_-Linkshare-_-je6NUbpObpQ-_-10:1&r=1

ITUNES – https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/love-and-happiness/id989441999?mt=11

GOODREADS – https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25311165-love-and-happiness

*****

Excerpt:

“If you need me to say it, I’ll say it.”

I held his hands, looked him in his beautiful brown eyes, and said, “I could never cheat on you… You’re the love of my life.”

As soon as I said the words, a dark cloud of guilt washed over me. I felt dirty. My conscience was eating away at me. When I cheat, I get lost in the excitement. I live in the moment, and I don’t worry about my actions or his feelings. I know it sounds selfish, but with everything that’s wrong with our relationship, I’ve always felt justified doing what I’ve been doing. Right now, I felt like the scum of the earth. Chris looked me deep in the eyes, kissed me, and that warm, loving feeling engulfed me. If only I could have this on a consistent basis.

*****

Author Info:

Ben Burgess Jr is the author of the award winning novels “Monster”, “Wounded”, the poetry book “Times Have Changed and Life is Strange” and the new novel “Love and Happiness” He is an active performer of spoken word poetry. Ben Burgess Jr uses his love of writing to inspire and influence youths to strive for what they believe in, and to never give up on their dreams. His poetry book “Times Have Changed and Life is Strange” and his novel “Monster” are currently used in schools on the lower east side of Manhattan. Ben Burgess has a BA degree in Business Management, and a MA degree in Educational Leadership. He is the proud father of his daughter Jaelynn and is active in trying to improve urban neighborhoods and communities.

AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE – http://www.amazon.com/Ben-Burgess-Jr./e/B00BCKZPHK/ref=dp_byline_cont_ebooks_1

WEBSITE / BLOG – https://www.facebook.com/BenBurgessJr

FACEBOOK – https://www.facebook.com/BenBurgessJr

TWITTER – https://twitter.com/Ben_Burgess_Jr

GOOGLE+ – https://plus.google.com/u/0/106196326709085538905/posts

PINTEREST – https://www.pinterest.com/bennyb15/

GOODREADS – https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6925256.Ben_Burgess_Jr_

SHELFARI – http://www.shelfari.com/books/38888256/Love-and-Happiness

*****

Giveaway:

(5) Five paperback books to (5) selected winners

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/9944253c165/

*****

Book Review – The Prince’s Runaway Lover

17 Friday Jul 2015

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

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

Book Review, Men of the Zodiac series, Robin Covington, The Prince's Runaway Lover

Yes, indeed …

And make sure you check out Robin’s playlist for the book at Spotify.

*****

The Prince’s Runaway Lover

by Robin Covington

Publication Date: July 14, 2015

Genres: Contemporary, Romance

Blurb:

Crown Prince Nicholas Lytton was never supposed to be ruler of Callanos. He was the “spare to the heir,” pursuing a decadent life of the rich and royal – extreme sports, physical pleasures, and glorious irresponsibility. Until his brother died. Now Nick is to be coronated king, and no one believes he’s ready. The best way to secure his crown is to do the unthinkable…find a queen.

While Isabel Reynolds works in the palace gardens, she has no desire to draw the attention of the way-too-flirty, would-be king. For she’s not the woman everyone thinks she is. Even if she wanted – or was tempted by – the promise of love, it would only end in disaster. Because while Isabel may be able to catch a king, her secrets would only destroy him…

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

Amazon UK: http://amzn.to/1J3hYVL

Amazon CA: http://amzn.to/1JSSIV9

B&N: http://bit.ly/1NMCpd3

Kobo: http://bit.ly/1KQSP4Z

iBooks: http://apple.co/1HMjA9P

Goodreads: http://bit.ly/1flV7O5

*****

Excerpt:

He breathed a sigh of relief when the door closed behind her and turned to find Isabel watching him with an exasperated expression on her face. Nick walked over to her, cupping her face in his hands and kissing her. She resisted at first, stiff against him but he coaxed her response with nips of his teeth, soft swipes of his tongue along the seam of her lips. When she finally gave in an opened to him, it was the sweetest reward he’d ever earned.

“They can take my medals and the cover of the Wheaties box,” he said, pressing a last lingering kiss on the dimple to the right of her full lips. “That was so much better.”

“You’re being charming again,” she teased, her smile bursting through in spite of her obvious attempt to stay disgruntled with him. “Do they teach that in prince pre-school?”

“It’s actually a genetic thing. All of the delivery room nurses were wrapped around my finger.”

“You’re an ass,” she swatted at his chest and started to walk away but he pulled her back against him wrapping his arms around her waist.

“As long as I’m your ass,” he said, switching gears when she stiffened at his words. Isabel was not going to respond well to any attempt on his part to keep her around for any period of time. He’d read the memo but he had hard time agreeing to live by the terms with her. But if he had any chance to keep her here, he needed to play it whole lot cooler. “Temporarily your ass. Is that better?”

She nodded. “Better.”

“My flight leaves in an hour and a half so let’s get this tour underway.”

Isabel followed along, slipping her hand out of his when they left his office. Nick bit back a pang of regret but he knew she was right. The palace had ears, eyes, and the biggest mouth in the Mediterranean. The private tour would raise eyebrows but doing it hand-in-hand would guarantee him a spot on the front banner of TMZ.

“Will you be gone long? She asked as they entered the public wing of the palace.

“Are you going to miss me?”

“Not if you keep answering my questions with a question.”

“Are you always this grumpy after several orgasms?” She slid eyes wide with shock in his direction and he bit back a laugh. “Because if I have to step up my game, just say the word and I’ll get right on that self-improvement plan.”

She bit back her giggle by biting her lower lip between her teeth and punctuated her disgust with an eye roll.

“You are a ridiculous man.”

“You are absolutely correct…” He put his hand on the doorknobs for the ornate double doors and pushed them open to reveal a room full of glittering gems, crowns, scepters and assorted gem covered items in glass cases all around the room. “…but I hope that having my very own jewelry store might make up for it.”

Isabel gasped, her hands flying up to cover her mouth. He would never forget the look of pure delight on her face, no trace of her troubles and none of the secrets. She took a couple of steps into the room, lowered her hands and cut him a look that made his dick hard and his heart race.

“Can I try some of them on?”

He grinned. “I think that can be arranged.”

*****

Review:

According to Amazon, The Prince’s Runaway Lover is supposed to be almost 200 pages long, but it read like a much shorter story. I found myself just flying through it, which is a great sign. The plot is pretty simple and Covington does a great job of keeping things tight. There isn’t a whole lot of extra things thrown in – besides the romance, we have Nicky’s troubles with adjusting to being the new king and the political issues that brings. It all makes sense and ties together very well.

Nick is rich, gorgeous, confident and a Prince (now soon-to-be king), which all adds up to a man who gets what he wants when he wants it. And he wants Isabel … the girl doesn’t stand a chance. She resists but you know he’s going to win, mostly because she wants him to 🙂 With the death of his brother, he’s a little lost and that lets down his guard so that Isabel also gets to see the very appealing man under the crown.

I’m not sure why Nick is so surprised when everything goes wrong. He was the one pushing Isabel into getting involved (like the spoiled, sexy man that he is) and she told him all along that she had troubles that she couldn’t talk about. I did like that it was his mother who helped him get his head on straight and that had to be one of my favorite scenes in the entire book. Their heart-to-heart was just what was needed and adds something so very sweet to the story.

*****

Author Info:

Robin Covington loves to explore the theme of fooling around and falling in love in her sexy, bestselling books. When she’s not writing sexy, sizzling romance she’s collecting tasty man candy pics, hoarding red nail polish, indulging in a little comic book geek love, and obsessing over Dean Winchester. Don’t send chocolate . . . send eye candy!

Robin’s bestselling books have finaled in the Romantic Times Reviewer’s Choice, the Book Seller’s Best and the National Reader’s Choice Awards.

She lives in Maryland with her handsome husband, her two brilliant children (they get it from her, of course!), and her beloved furbabies.

Drop her a line at robin@robincovingtonromance. com – she always writes back.

*****

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