Book Review – Hometown Cowboy

02 Thursday Mar 2017

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Book Review

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Book Review, Hometown Cowboy, Rocky Mountain Riders series, Sara Richardson

So far this week we’ve seen a sexy baseball player, a brooding rock star, a hottie dad (and I’ll give you a hint that Friday will bring us a hard-bodied military man), so what else do we need? A cowboy, of course!

*****

Hometown Cowboy

A Rocky Mountain Riders Novel

by Sara Richardson

Blurb:

NEVER FALL IN LOVE WITH A COWBOY

Jessa Mae Love is done with relationships. No matter how tempting he might be, she cannot–will not–fall for a man like Lance Cortez. The outrageously handsome cowboy is practically a living legend in Colorado, as famous for riding bulls as he is for breaking hearts. What would a big-time rodeo star like him see in a small-town veterinarian who wears glasses, rescues animals, and cries when watching rom-coms? Turns out, plenty.

Raising bulls, riding the circuit, and looking after his ailing father–Lance never stands still for long. Yet Jessa catches his attention, and the more she tries to resist him, the more he wants her. When she agrees to move to the ranch to keep an eye on Lance’s dad, Jessa tells him they have to keep it professional: no flirting, no sweet talk, and definitely no kissing. But with Jessa now living under his roof, that’s easier said than done . . .

Add HOMETOWN COWBOY to Goodreads

Purchase Links:

Amazon: http://bit.ly/HometownCowboyAMZ

B&N: http://bit.ly/HometownCowboyBN

Kobo: http://bit.ly/HometownCowboyKOBO

iBooks: http://bit.ly/HometownCowboyIBOOKS

GooglePlay: http://bit.ly/HometownCowboyGOOGLEPLAY

BAM: http://bit.ly/HometownCowboyBAM

What reviewers are saying about Sara Richardson’s novels…

“Charming, witty, and fun. There’s no better read. I enjoyed every word!”―Debbie Macomber, #1 New York Times bestselling author on No Better Man

“Richardson’s debut packs a powerful emotional punch. [Her] deft characterization creates a hero and heroine who will elicit laughs in some places and tears in others.”―Publishers Weekly on No Better Man

“4 stars! Hot! Richardson brings us a modern read set in beautiful Aspen. Her brisk storytelling and the charming, endearing characters set within a solid, engaging plot make this sweet romance shine. A strong and vulnerable Bryce, coupled with a determined, lighthearted Avery, will appeal to readers, especially with their sizzling chemistry. This is a truly delightful read.”―RT Book Reviews on No Better Man

“Fresh, fun, well-written, a dazzling debut.”―Lori Wilde, New York Times bestselling author on No Better Man

“The perfect balance of humor, heart and heat. I couldn’t put it down! Sara Richardson will sweep you away.”―Christie Craig, New York Times bestselling author on No Better Man

“An enjoyable read. Richardson’s spunky, baseball-lovin’ heroine is delightful!”―Katie Lane, USA Today bestselling author on No Better Man

*****

Review:

This is a fantastic introduction to Richardson’s new series. We get to meet some great characters and have little glimpses at what is probably going to be future story-lines, but without cheating these two out of a well-deserved HEA.

Jessa is a kind-hearted, giving person … and Lance is her opposite – closed-off, gruff, and private, he’s got a big heart but he’s also got some demons. When Jessa’s friendship with Lance’s dad puts them in each other’s orbit, Lance is thrown for a loop. He should definitely be staying far away from the good girl looking for Prince Charming, but there’s something about her that just draws him in.

The back and forth between these two is a ton of fun. He’s all prickly and she’s got a ton of spirit, so you know that sparks will fly. They both know that they shouldn’t be together but the attraction is just too hard to resist. After the required blow-ups and misunderstandings, hurt feelings and apologies, everything comes together well.

Between his brothers & her friends you know that there are more of these to come and I’m looking forward to it. These people all need things to go their way as soon as possible.

*****

PRE-ORDER THE NEXT BOOK IN THIS SERIES
Comeback Cowboy – Coming June 27th, 2017!

Amazon | B&N | iBooks

*****

Author Info:

Sara Richardson grew up chasing adventure in Colorado’s rugged mountains. She’s climbed to the top of a 14,000-foot peak at midnight, swam through Class IV rapids, completed her wilderness first-aid certification, and spent seven days at a time tromping through the wilderness with a thirty-pound backpack strapped to her shoulders.

Eventually, Sara did the responsible thing and got an education in writing and journalism. After five years in the corporate writing world, she stopped ignoring the voices in her head and started writing fiction. Now, she uses her experience as a mountain adventure guide to write stories that incorporate adventure with romance. Still indulging her adventurous spirit, Sara lives and plays in Colorado with her saint of a husband and two young sons. Her first contemporary romance, No Better Man, was released by Grand Central forever 2015.

Website: www.sararichardson.com

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/SaraR_Books

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarar_books/

*****

Book Review – Montana Mornings

01 Wednesday Mar 2017

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Book Review

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Book Review, Kim Law, Montana Mornings, The WIldes of Birch Bay series

Montana Mornings

The Wildes of Birch Bay, Book 3

by Kim Law

Gabe Wilde has never been more ready for a change. Thirty-three and in the midst of a divorce, he’s packed up his second-grade daughter and come home to Birch Bay, Montana. New house, new career, new life. Only, with changes come stress. His daughter is struggling with the transition to their new norm—and Gabe is out of ideas as to how to help.

Erica Bird is mired in her own worries. After impulsively leaving the teaching job she loved, she may finally be free from her cheating ex, but separated from her family and everything she’s ever known, second guesses linger. Substitute teaching in Birch Bay is fine for the time being, but what will her future hold?

When Gabe’s daughter winds up in Erica’s class, the two meet—or rather, reunite. Neither has forgotten their college romance or the tender feelings they once shared, but will their complicated pasts destroy their second chance? Or will old desire lead to a new love when each needs it most?

I enjoyed the first book in this series, Montana Cherries, but somehow I missed out on the second one. And while this one can easily stand on its own, I think that having read the first story helped me understand where the Wilde kids are coming from. I’m not sure if Montana Rescue plays into Gabe’s story but I know that Dani’s definitely sets up the family history. I’ll say it again – this one can stand alone, Law does a great job of giving you the details you need. Although I think having that framework would make it easier to understand where Gabe is coming from.

And you’ll need it because Gabe is a very complex man. He has been badly hurt by women in his past, first by his mother and then his wife, and now he’s got a daughter who needs him desperately. She’s overwhelmed with everything she’s feeling and at her age she has no idea how to deal. It’s heartbreaking to see what these two are having to deal with but Gabe is dedicated to doing what is best for his little girl.

Erica and Gabe meet again, but the years haven’t been all that kind to either of them. While he’s dealing with the fallout from his narcissistic ex, she’s got her own relationship problems to deal with. A cheating husband and a small town don’t go together so she’s moved to get away from the pressures of gossip & proximity. Unfortunately as badly as she wants to, it’s hard to just turn off her feelings so she’s trying to figure out how to let go. The sexy man and wounded little girl next door help to take her mind off of it but she quickly finds herself getting involved.

There are so many emotions that run through this book and Law has you twisted up in knots before you know it. I desperately wanted them to find the peace and love they deserve, but it takes a lot of effort to overcome their histories. Little progresses though make things worthwhile and before you know things are looking up all around. It’s not going to be easy but nothing good ever is!

Book Review – Jordan Reclaimed

28 Tuesday Feb 2017

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Book Review

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Book Review, Jordan Reclaimed, Preload series, Scarlett Cole

We’ve seen these guys before (and even this book) and I was so VERY VERY happy to get my hands on it. I have to admit … it exceeded all of my expectations!!!

*****

Jordan Reclaimed

A Preload Novel

by Scarlett Cole

E-Original published by Swerve

Publication Date: February 28, 2017

ISBN: 9781250132406

Price: $4.99

Blurb:

Jordan Steele’s life began when he was ten. When he was taken from his parents and a house that was never a home. When he met his brothers, the other lost and abandoned boys in his group home. When he learned what friendship and family and love looked like.

Now he’s made good, touring the world with the band he and his brothers formed in that crowded group home. No one but his found family really knows the man under the fame and fortune, the scars he hides behind the rockstar lifestyle. Until he sees her through the windows of the National Ballet, dancing, and suddenly the world doesn’t seem so dark.

Aleksandra Artemov ticks all the ballet boxes. Father a legendary Kirov dancer. Check. Prepping since birth for classical ballet. Check. Compulsive control over the food she eats. Check. Principal dancer at The National Ballet of Canada. Check. But what she craves is freedom.

She craves Jordan.

Everything about him should terrify her. His size, his tattoos, his edge. But he doesn’t. He stirs her very soul. Jordan has nothing but himself to offer her, and he’s never been good enough for anyone. Can he figure out how to face his own demons before he loses his light for good?

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01M3X4F7O

B&N: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/jordan-reclaimed-scarlett-cole/1125495393

iBooks: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/jordan-reclaimed/id1171075980?mt=11

Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/jordan-reclaimed

Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/books/details/Scarlett_Cole_Jordan_Reclaimed?id=xARpDQAAQBAJ

*****

Review:

This is the first in a spin-off series for Cole and while it can very much stand on its own I would recommend reading The Purest Hook, Dred’s story, because you get a better understanding of the dynamic of this group of men. (Plus, the Second Circle Tattoos series is so amazing – why wouldn’t you want to read great books?!?!) They’ve been together for years after they were placed in the same foster home and have been carrying around the scars of their childhoods for so very long. Here we concentrate on Jordan, who I was most curious about when I first got to know Preload, and on the one hand I’m thrilled that we get his secrets but on the other I’m a little sad that the other guys took such a back seat here. They are there to support him, which so fantastically shows their bond with each other and their places in the family, but we only got a few small glimpses into their issues. The upside, of course, is that they are all getting their own books and I’m so excited to get my hands on those stories!

Jordan’s past is SO messed up and I can’t imagine how he even managed to make it to this point in as good shape as he has. Every day is a struggle to overcome his fears and anxieties, but luckily he has an amazing support system within the band. Then one night he sees Lexi dancing thru the window of her studio. The connection he feels with her and the balm she provides him is instantaneous, but he’s so screwed up that he feels like he’s no good for him. He’s finding himself drawn to her with a power, though, that it’s hard to resist.

And Lexi is just as strong in spirit as she is in body so she’s not letting him run without a fight. She has her own battles, although they aren’t as apparent as his – she’s got a less than positive relationship with her father and, like most dancers, there’s a lot of pressure for her to keep her body in top form (low weight, no injuries, etc). Her life is hectic but she knows that they can’t ignore the feelings they have for each other and with patience and understanding they could have something amazing.

I can’t even imagine what a jackpot a therapist would find between these two! But Cole doesn’t pull any punches, always delivering characters of depth and complexity, however by being honest and laying everything out there these two figure out a way to work through every trouble point. They do it together, which is so important for the future of their relationship. Jordan Reclaimed is a deeply troubling look at abuse, in many forms, and the long term effects that it has on people but it’s also heartwarming as they work hard to overcome it to be together. While not an easy book, it was a fast read for me because I just could not put it down. I think it took less than 24 hours from beginning to end and I wanted to keep going, to get to the next story now 🙂

*****

Author Info:

SCARLETT COLE is a writer of contemporary romance and a two-time RITA finalist. Her debut, The Strongest Steel, was a Best Debut Goodreads Author Finalist 2015. Born in England, Scarlett traveled the world, living in Japan and the United States before settling in Canada where she met her own personal hero – all six and a half feet of him. She now lives with her husband and children in Manchester, England.

Website: http://www.scarlettcole.com/

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ItsScarlettCole

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/31688253-jordan-reclaimed

*****

Book Review – Saving Drew

27 Monday Feb 2017

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Book Review

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Book Review, Lara Van Hulzen, Saving Drew, Silver Bay series

Saving Drew

Silver Bay, Book 3

by Lara Van Hulzen

Recovering from a shoulder injury that could end his career as starting pitcher of the New York Empires, Drew MacIntire comes to Silver Bay for solitude and privacy from the media frenzy his surgery has created. After he dances with the beautiful baker, Baylee, at his sister’s wedding, his heart not only wants baseball back, but a future with her as well.

Baylee Nelson is settled into her simple, small town life in Silver Bay with her young son, Casey. When Drew saunters into her bakery intent on asking her out, she can’t help but be thrilled. He’s handsome, sexy, kind, and also takes interest in Casey. Baylee knows she needs to keep things casual. She and Drew live in separate worlds, and she needs to keep her focus on her business and son, but Drew didn’t get to the top by giving up easily.

Drew and Baylee are falling hard, but with spring training approaching, it seems like the third strike for their future… Can their love withstand the media glare and challenges of a long distance romance?

This book totally surprised me. Not having read anything else in the series I didn’t know what to expect but it definitely wasn’t this smooth, mostly angst-free, love story. It does have just a touch of insta-love, which may not appeal to some, but Van Hulzen does a good job of making sure that they have time to get to know each other and commit to their relationship.

Drew is at a crossroads in his life. Unfortunately, it isn’t one of his choosing so it’s been really hard on him. In Silver Bay for his sister’s wedding, he decides to stay just a little longer in the pretty little town. Especially after meeting (and feeling so comfortable) with Baylee. She’s been the only thing so far to snap him out of his funk and, while he knows that it isn’t a good time, he really wants to get to know her better.

Baylee has made a good life for herself, her son and her mom. Unfortunately she’s given up on having a man in her life … until she meets Drew. He’s understanding, sexy, good with her family, and makes her feel wonderful things again. But his life isn’t in her small town and she’s not sure she’s up for anything else.

I really enjoyed being with Drew & Baylee as they try to navigate their developing feelings. Both are hesitant, for good reasons, but their pull is undeniable. There isn’t a lot of conflict, just the two of them working their way through the obstacles that come up. It’s refreshing & touching and Van Hulzen makes it so easy to get caught up in their quest for a HEA ending.

(This is the first in this series that I’ve read but it can easily stand on its own.)

Spotlight – Spooning Daisy

24 Friday Feb 2017

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Sneak Peek

≈ 3 Comments

Tags

Maggie McConnell, Otter Bite series, Spooning Daisy

This has comedy of errors written all over it … with a HEA ending, of course!

*****

Spooning Daisy

An Otter Bite Romance

by Maggie McConnell

Contemporary Romance (RomCom)

Date Published: June 7, 2016

Publisher: Kensington (Lyrical Shine)

Blurb:

It’s a long way from Seattle to Otter Bite, Alaska. But if one woman can survive the trip–and the locals–she just might find what her heart has been searching for.

Her mango chutney is exquisite; her blueberry sauce is to die for. But right now, Chef de Cuisine Daisy Moon is a woman without a kitchen–and without a fiancé. Unceremoniously dumped from her place of business and her relationship, Daisy sells her belongings, plus a few of her ex’s, and packs her bags. Maybe smashing all the china in her former restaurant was a bad move. Stripped of her Golden Spoon for “un-chef-like” conduct, she is now blacklisted all over Seattle. Her sole job offer is from the Wild Man Lodge…in Otter Bite, Alaska.

Too bad Daisy can’t even get out of Dodge without incident. By the time she boards a ship for Alaska, she’s got a trail of new troubles behind her, and suddenly Otter Bite is sounding pretty good. But the vessel turns into her own personal Titanic when a series of close encounters confirms her terrible taste in men–including one very good looking bad luck charm named Max Kendall. She vows to dedicate the rest of her days to chowders and brulée. Yet even Alaska isn’t far enough away to shake the memories of the sexy shipmate who rocked her cabin–and her world. Thank goodness she’s done with surprises–but they may not be done with her…

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Spooning-Daisy-Otter-Bite-Romance-ebook/dp/B015VA3O10

Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/spooning-daisy-maggie-mcconnell/1122713766?ean=9781601836861

*****

Excerpt:

Max cocked his head at her. No siree, Bob. Daisy Moon was not easy. She was like a 1500 piece puzzle, where all the pieces are really tiny, and similar in shape and color, but are nonetheless different, and it would take weeks, maybe even months, just to get the edges put together.

“Don’t look so surprised,” she said. “I know I’m not exactly laid back. Okay, maybe that’s being kind,” she responded to Max’s smile. “But I’m an incredible cook. And a really good speller. Not to mention having a humongous vocabulary. I came in fourth in the national spelling bee championship when I was fourteen.”

Without meaning to, Max pictured Daisy at fourteen, in a prim white blouse and a demure plaid skirt with her hair tied back in a ribbon, triumphantly spelling words like…concupiscence.

“Do I know what men want, or what?” Now Daisy smiled…at herself.

Taking the cue, Max leaned into her and spoke sincerely, but resisted the urge to cup her hand. “Somewhere there is a man who wants a pretty redhead who’s difficult and a great cook with a really humongous vocabulary who can spell…and next time it won’t be a cross-dressing felon.”

*****

Author Info:

Golden Heart nominee Maggie McConnell spent her childhood overseas as the daughter of US diplomats. Attending college in Illinois, she earned a BA in Art and an MBA while working at the local humane shelter. At 26, she packed her dog and cat into a Ford truck and drove the Alcan Highway to Alaska, where she spent 23 years exploring The Last Frontier in a single-engine Cessna. A vegan and animal rights advocate, Maggie provides a sanctuary on her Arizona ranch for all creatures great and small, but her immediate family includes dog Molly, cat Sara, horses Quinn and Teena, and an ever-growing dynasty of chipmunks. Every year, like the Gray Whale, Maggie returns to Alaska.

Website: http://MaggieMcConnellRomance.com

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

*****

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Spotlight – Sprinkled with Love

24 Friday Feb 2017

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Contest, Sneak Peek

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Bachelor Bake-Off series, Jennifer Faye, Sprinkled with Love

I adore the friends to lovers storyline! Throw in a matchmaking cat and it is a recipe for success 🙂

*****

Sprinkled with Love

Bachelor Bake-Off #3

by Jennifer Faye

Releasing February 21, 2017

Tule Publishing

Blurb:

What does one do with a matchmaking cat named Romeo?

Spirited and beautiful, Jillian Parker is one of Marietta’s newest business owners. Still, her mother worries about Jillian’s bare ring finger. So in order to give her mother something else to fuss over, Jillian adopts a cat named Romeo. He turns out to be anything but a docile lap cat.

One snowy night, Romeo makes a break for it. With Jillian right on his heels, they have a near miss with a passing pickup driven by Avery Wainwright, one of Jillian’s closest friends. A rodeo accident has the sexy cowboy returning home to recuperate, and he’s not happy about it.

So when Avery finds himself lassoed into the Bachelor Bake-Off, he turns to the one person who has always helped him out—Jillian. But will teaching him to take chances outside of the show ring have them both discovering that their feelings for each other run much deeper than they ever imagined?

Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/33832386-sprinkled-with-love

Goodreads Series Link https://www.goodreads.com/series/199214-bachelor-bake-off

Buy Links: AMAZON | B & N | ITUNES | KOBO

*****

Excerpt:

They climbed in the sleigh and then Avery covered Jillian with a heavy lap blanket. “Are you ready?”

She nodded, clutching the thermos. “I am now.”

And then they were off, gliding over the snow. The snow muffled the sounds. And though the moon was hidden behind the clouds, it was still bright out. As they made their way through the field, Avery glanced over at Jillian. She was nestled beneath the plaid blanket and still clutching the thermos. She looked stunning. He should have brought her out here a long time ago.

“What are you smiling about?”

Jillian’s voice drew him from his thoughts. “Who’s smiling?”

“You are and you know it. So what’s up?”

“Nothing. I’m just enjoying the evening.” It was so much more than that, but he really didn’t want to risk ruining this moment. He’d worked so hard to pull it together. He wanted to savor their time together.

For a while they glided along in silence. He had a particular destination in mind. It didn’t have a name. It was just a spot where you could see for miles. And at night, it was like visiting a planetarium with all of the stars twinkling overhead.

“Are you warm enough?” he asked.

She nodded from inside her big, fuzzy hood. “I’m perfect. This is amazing. Do you take the sleigh out very often?”

He shook his head. “This is my first time. I usually come out here on horseback.” He slowed the horse to a stop before turning to Jillian. “I wanted to do something special for you. A way to thank you. You’ve always been there for me and my family, whether it was helping me with the Bake-Off or being the best nanny in the whole world.”

“You…you really think that?”

He’d obviously done a lousy job of communicating his thoughts in the past. He would have to do better going forward.

“I’m sorry I didn’t make that clear before.” He stared into her eyes. “I really appreciate everything you’ve done for me and my family.”

His gaze dipped to her lips. They were shiny and full. And he was overwhelmed with the desire to kiss her again. So what was holding him back?

They were all alone on this snowy evening. And as he’d come to discover while he was planning this evening, it was a very romantic setting. If he were ever to have a chance with her, it would start beneath the starlit sky. But should he risk it? Should he put himself out there again?

It wasn’t like he was asking her to marry him. It was a kiss—a simple, no-strings-attached kiss. It was a starting point.

He rested his arm over the back of the sleigh. His heart started to pound hard in his chest. He’d kissed a number of girls over the years on the rodeo circuit and he’d never put this much thought into it. But none of them had meant as much to him as Jillian. He leaned toward her.

Suddenly Jillian raised the thermos between them. “Hot chocolate?”

He settled back in his seat. Had he read the signs wrong? Was he that rusty where women were concerned?

*****

Author Info:

Award-winning author, Jennifer Faye pens fun, heartwarming contemporary romances with rugged cowboys, sexy billionaires and enchanting royalty. Internationally published with books translated into nine languages. She is a two-time winner of the RT Book Reviews Reviewers’ Choice Award, the CataRomance Reviewers’ Choice Award, named a TOP PICK author, and been nominated for numerous other awards.

Now living her dream, she resides with her very patient husband, amazing daughter (the other remarkable daughter is off chasing her own dreams) and two spoiled cats. When she’s not plotting out her next romance, you can find her curled up with a mug of tea and a book.

Author Links: WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | GOODREADS

*****

Giveaway:

a $25 Amazon Gift Card

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/521ac4c81236/

*****

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Spotlight – The Wright Brother

23 Thursday Feb 2017

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Sneak Peek

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K.A. Linde, The Wright Brother

Finishing up the day with a little taste of K.A. Linde’s newest, which comes out next week. You can preorder now!

*****

The Wright Brother

by K.A. Linde

Standalone – Contemporary Romance

Release Day: February 28^th, 2017

Blurb:

I’d dated his brother.

He didn’t remember and I wish I could forget.

I may have sworn off the Wright family a long time ago. But when I returned home, Jensen Wright crashed into my life with the confidence of a billionaire CEO and the sex appeal of a god. Even I couldn’t resist our charged chemistry, or the way he fit into my life like a missing puzzle piece.

Too bad he’d forgotten the one thing that could destroy us.

Because Jensen Wright doesn’t share. Not with anyone. And if his brother finds out, this could all go down in flames.

When it all was said and done, was he the Wright brother?

iBooks: https://geo.itunes.apple.com/us/book/the-wright-brother/id1196147122?mt=11

*****

Excerpt:

Her smile was magnetic, and I just wanted to kiss her. I mean…I’d wanted to kiss her all night. But sitting there, in front of the last lit house, with Christmas music playing in the background and her smile radiating joy, there was nowhere else I’d rather be. That thought hit me so suddenly and I didn’t even know why.

I put my truck into park, leaned over to her side of the car, and pushed my hand up into her dark hair. She froze, silhouetted by the light display behind her. Her eyes locked with mine, green meeting brown, and her eyes widened with surprise. She breathed out softly, and I could feel her pulse ratchet up at my touch.

This was the girl who had pulled me across the room at Sutton’s wedding, like a magnet finding its pair. This was the tension that I’d felt when we first spoke. Here was the world of desire and lust that had clouded both of our minds ever since our first kiss.

My face was only inches from hers. I wanted to take what was mine. I wanted to claim her mouth and then her body right here in the cab of my truck, like we were young, wild, and carefree.

But, instead, I couldn’t seem to stop staring at her.

She laughed lightly to try to defuse the tension. But it wasn’t possible, and it was a feeble effort.

“Are you going to kiss me?” she whispered boldly.

I didn’t need any further prodding. I crushed my lips against hers. It was like striking a match. Our lips moved against each other, desperate with the need to get closer, to have more. She opened her mouth for me, and I brushed my tongue against hers. The groan that emanated from deep in the back of her throat made my dick twitch. Our tongues volleyed for position. She was just as aching for attention as I was.

I heard the click of her belt buckle, and soon, she was pushing her body closer, moving over the divide of my truck. My hands fell to her ass, and I effortlessly hoisted her up and into my seat. She squeaked in shock but didn’t break contact. Instead, she straddled me and let her hands wander across my chest.

My hands never left her ass because, damn, did that woman have an ass. She was grinding up against me, and I moved into a full-blown hard-on at her ministrations. She must have realized what she was doing to me because, when she swiveled her hips in place, she moaned against the feel of my dick.

In that moment, I didn’t give a shit that we were acting like teenagers, parked outside of a stranger’s house, bucking against each other for just an ounce of satisfaction. I was ready to strip her bare and fuck her until she forgot every word to every Christmas song and only remembered my name.

That was, until she rocked back just a little too hard, and a loud honk erupted from the hood of the truck.

*****

Author Info:

K.A. Linde is the USA Today bestselling author of more than fifteen novels including the Avoiding series and the Record series. She has a Masters degree in political science from the University of Georgia, was the head campaign worker for the 2012 presidential campaign at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and served as the head coach of the Duke University dance team. She loves reading fantasy novels, geeking out over Star Wars, binge-watching Supernatural, and dancing in her spare time.

She currently lives in Lubbock, Texas, with her husband and two super adorable puppies.

WEBSITE / FACEBOOK / TWITTER / INSTAGRAM

*****

Spotlight – ‘Til the Sun Comes Up

23 Thursday Feb 2017

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Contest, Sneak Peek

≈ 1 Comment

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‘Til the Sun Comes Up, MacLarens of Fire Mountain series, Shirleen Davies

We’ve seen lots of books by Shirleen Davies (include Book Seven of this series, No Getting Over You) and I’m so excited that we get to host her again.

*****

‘Til the Sun Comes Up

Book Eight, MacLarens of Fire Mountain Series

by Shirleen Davies

Contemporary Western Romance

Blurb:

Skye MacLaren’s life revolves around her family and the fierce bucking bull stock they provide to rodeos. She’s competitive and competent, having no room in her life for a relationship—including one with a world champion rider and business competitor.

Gage Templeton’s rodeo past and executive position with a national bucking stock supplier assures him of exciting work and nights with any woman he chooses. He’ll let no one get close—until his company partners with a competitor, forcing him to work with the one woman who could turn his resolve upside down.

Knowing a relationship is the last thing either needs, both charge ahead, certain they can keep their explosive feelings for each other in check—and away from curious family and friends. Continuing their secret encounters becomes even harder when outside forces threaten both their businesses and the people they care about.

As Gage works to discover the threat meant to cripple his company, Skye’s doubts increase. She wants more from the most magnetic man she’s ever known, but protecting her heart must come first.

Desire, distrust, fear, and the pain of the past cloud their minds, even as they work together to identify the danger. Can two strong, determined people conquer the perils to their lives as well as their hearts?

‘Til the Sun Comes Up, book eight in the MacLarens of Fire Mountain Contemporary western romance series, is a full-length novel with an HEA and no cliffhanger.

Amazon | iBooks | Google Play | Barnes & Noble | Kobo

*****

Excerpt:

“If we do decide to go through with this, I need to be clear. I’m not looking for a relationship. I’ve been down that road once and don’t intend to ever travel it again. Fact is, I haven’t been with a woman more than once in years. Don’t even know the names of most of them. If that makes me sound like a jerk, I guess that’s what I am. But with you…”

Her chest squeezed as she waited for him to continue.

Reaching out, he took her hand. “You have to be certain you can accept me on my terms.”

Skye bit her lip, willing herself to stay calm. “Then I suppose you should be clear as to what they are.”

Dropping her hand, he sat down on the bed, patting the spot beside him.

“I’d rather stand.” Skye clasped her hands in front of her.

He leaned forward, resting his arms on his thighs, catching her gaze with his. “All right. We see each other when we can, when it’s convenient. No expectations, no late night calls, no drama. I’m free to see other women, and you’re free to see other men.”

“No.”

He straightened. “No? If that’s your answer, I’ll walk out now.”

Turning away, she worked to compose herself. She didn’t know why she even considered his demands, except for one thing. She felt the same about all of it, other than one point.

“I’m good with it all…” She hesitated.

“Except?”

“You don’t see other women, and I don’t see other men. It’s non-negotiable for me, Gage. I’m not looking for a relationship, either, but I’m also not looking to feel cheap or used.”

Gage stood, holding a hand toward her. “Skye—”

“Please, let me finish.” She turned away, gathering her thoughts. “I can live with seeing each other when it works for both of us. No drama, no commitment. Easy and infrequent.” She whipped back around, pinning him with a hard stare. “If you need to be with other women, I’m not the person for this kind of arrangement.”

He winced at the description and the terse tone. “What happens if one of us wants to start seeing someone else?”

“A simple phone call should work.” Her voice remained steady. She didn’t know why it hurt to say it out loud.

Gage walked up to her and placed his hands on her shoulders, his voice low and rough. “The last thing I want is to hurt you. You have to know I’m not a good bet. This could last a few nights or much longer. Either way, I don’t want anything permanent, and I want to walk away as friends.”

“I’m a big girl, Gage. I don’t want or need anything more than seeing each other whenever we have time. Is that fair?”

His nostrils flared. Studying her face, he saw no sign she didn’t believe her own words. Dropping his hands from her shoulders, he picked up his hat, settling it on his head.

Her brows drew together. “Are you leaving?”

“It’s best. You need to be sure it’s what you want. Truthfully, so do I.”

She didn’t like it, but knew he was right. “I leave tomorrow.”

“Change your flight to Sunday.” He smiled. “Please. I’d like to see you tomorrow, show you more of the city, take you downtown for dinner.” Stepping closer, he cupped her face in his hands, the kiss slow and warm. Groaning, he stepped away. “Change your flight, Skye.”

*****

Author Info:

Shirleen Davies writes romance—historical, contemporary, and romantic suspense. She grew up in Southern California, attended Oregon State University, and has degrees from San Diego State University and the University of Maryland. During the day she provides consulting services to small and mid-sized businesses. But her real passion is writing emotionally charged stories of flawed people who find redemption through love and acceptance. She now lives with her husband in a beautiful town in northern Arizona.

Amazon Author Page | BookBub | Email | Website | Blog

Facebook | Twitter | Google+ | LinkedIn | Pinterest

*****

Giveaway:

$25 Amazon Gift Card

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/80af10c269/

*****

Tour Schedule:

February 20^th

Romance Novel Giveaways

http://romancenovelgiveaways.blogspot.com/

February 21^st

CD Yess Writes

cdyesswritesblog.wordpress.com

February 22^nd

Deal Sharing Aunt

http://dealsharingaunt.blogspot.hr/

February 23^rd

Romantic Reads

https://romanticreadsandsuch.wordpress.com

February 24^th

Lola White

www.lola-white.com

February 27^th

Mel’s Shelves

http://www.melsshelves.blogspot.com

February 28^th

The Phantom Paragrapher

www.thephantomparagrapher.blogspot.com

March 1^st

Natural Bri

www.facebook.com/naturalbripage

March 2^nd

CBY Book Club

http://www.cbybookclub.blogspot.co.uk

March 3^rd

Teatime and Books

http://www.teatimeandbooks76.blogspot.com

Spotlight – Saved by Darkness

22 Wednesday Feb 2017

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Contest, Sneak Peek

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

Darkness series, Katie Reus, Saved by Darkness

We’ve seen a couple of Katie Reus books and this one looks fantabulous, with lots of 5 Star reviews on Goodreads. I gotta admit – I just love the idea of a demon/dragon hero!

*****

Saved by Darkness

A Darkness Novel

by Katie Reus

Blurb:

He thought he lost her decades ago.

Half-demon, half-dragon shifter Ian McCabe is hellbent on getting back the only woman he’s ever loved. When Fiona O’Riley kicked him out of her life decades ago, he thought she was gone for good. Now that she’s back, nothing will stop him from claiming her. But she wants nothing to do with him—or his family.

She’ll do anything to save him.

Fiona knows that Ian is the only male for her. The only way to keep him alive is to stay away from him. But when tragedy strikes and they discover a wicked agenda for the mass murder of humans, they must work together to take down the enemies that threaten everyone. But there’s so much more on the line. As their undeniable desire intensifies, they’re faced with an unbearable choice. If Fiona and Ian succumb to their temptation, mating could be the last thing they ever do.

Amazon: http://smarturl.it/87g212

Barnes & Noble: http://smarturl.it/zlhr9m

iBooks: http://smarturl.it/lsbc1f

Kobo: http://smarturl.it/k54o4g

*****

Excerpt:

His brother flipped open a thin manila file on the desk and revealed an 8×10 glossy of…

Fiona.

Ian blinked once. Twice.

He stared at the picture, feeling his entire body heat up. It had been years since he’d seen her. He had a picture of Fiona, but it was from decades ago and it was in one of his safes—along with other treasures. That was not a myth about dragons—they loved treasure. Given her modern style of dress, this was taken fairly recently. “What is this?” His voice was always raspy, but even more so now.

Rory flicked a glance at Liberty before looking back at Ian. “This is what I wanted to talk to you about. Finn wants to speak to this female. She lives on the outskirts of his territory. Not in it, but close enough. And we needed to know if she is a trustworthy female. I know you know who she is, but I don’t know the nature of your relationship.” He stared at Ian questioningly.

Ian stood abruptly. He’d shared almost every part of his life and history with Rory. Fiona was the only thing he’d left out of that narrative. He simply couldn’t talk about her. It hurt too bad. Made his dragon want to take over, to burn everything and everyone to ash. “She’s trustworthy.” Without saying anything further he strode from the room. He heard his brother curse softly behind him, but ignored him.

Rory was lucky he hadn’t burned a hole in the ceiling and just flown out of there. Which yes, was insane, but Ian wasn’t in control now. He needed to get to the Stavros estate as soon as possible. The Alpha wolf who ran this territory wouldn’t be happy to see him since he didn’t plan to call first, but the male could just deal with it. Seeing Fiona’s picture again had his most primal nature clawing to the surface.

He couldn’t even convince himself that he’d buried memories of her because it was a lie. He thought of her every damn day. The woman lived inside him, was his mate. It didn’t matter that they’d never crossed that final line and mated. That he’d never marked her—that she was mated to another. Another female would never do for him. Now to know that she was somehow nearby, close to Finn’s territory… He was going to find out everything from the Alpha.

Then he was going to see her. He knew he shouldn’t. She was mated, taken. She’d broken his heart into a thousand shards and gone off with another male. Another male her family deemed worthy. Too late he realized she’d done it to protect him, that she’d sacrificed her own happiness to keep him alive. Or it had been an attempt to—but he didn’t need anyone’s protection. He would have kept them safe, alive. He just wished she’d known that, trusted him enough.

Now there was no logical reason to go to her. Still, he would see her. He had to.

*****

Author Info:

Katie Reus is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the Red Stone Security series, the Darkness series and the Deadly Ops series. She fell in love with romance at a young age thanks to books she pilfered from her mom’s stash. Years later she loves reading romance almost as much as she loves writing it.

However, she didn’t always know she wanted to be a writer. After changing majors many times, she finally graduated summa cum laude with a degree in psychology. Not long after that she discovered a new love. Writing. She now spends her days writing dark paranormal romance and sexy romantic suspense.

For more information on Katie please visit her website: www.katiereus.com. Also find her on twitter @katiereus or visit her on facebook at: www.facebook.com/katiereusauthor.

*****

Praise for the novels of Katie Reus

“Has all the right ingredients: a hot couple, evil villains, and a killer action-filled plot. . . . [The] Moon Shifter series is what I call Grade-A entertainment!” —Joyfully Reviewed

“I could not put this book down. . . . Let me be clear that I am not saying that this was a good book for a paranormal genre; it was an excellent romance read, period.” —All About Romance

“…a wild hot ride for readers. The story grabs you and doesn’t let go.” —New York Times bestselling author, Cynthia Eden

“Reus strikes just the right balance of steamy sexual tension and nail-biting action….This romantic thriller reliably hits every note that fans of the genre will expect.” —Publishers Weekly

“Prepare yourself for the start of a great new series! . . . I’m excited about reading more about this great group of characters.” —Fresh Fiction

“Wow! This powerful, passionate hero sizzles with sheer deliciousness. I loved every sexy twist of this fun & exhilarating tale. Katie Reus delivers!” —Carolyn Crane, RITA award winning author

“A sexy, well-crafted paranormal romance that succeeds with smart characters and creative world building.”—Kirkus Reviews

“Mating Instinct’s romance is taut and passionate . . . Katie Reus’s newest installment in her Moon Shifter series will leave readers breathless!” —Stephanie Tyler, New York Times bestselling author

“Both romantic and suspenseful, a fast-paced sexy book full of high stakes action.” —Heroes and Heartbreakers

“Katie Reus pulls the reader into a story line of second chances, betrayal, and the truth about forgotten lives and hidden pasts.” —The Reading Café

“Nonstop action, a solid plot, good pacing, and riveting suspense.” —RT Book Reviews

“Mating Instinct was a great read with complex characters, serious political issues and a world I am looking forward to coming back to.” —All Things Urban Fantasy

*****

Giveaway:

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/5440a3541064/

*****

Spotlight – Wild Horse Springs

21 Tuesday Feb 2017

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Contest, Sneak Peek

≈ 1 Comment

Tags

Jodi Thomas, Ransom Canyon series, Wild Horse Springs

I love those strong, quiet cowboys, don’t you?

*****

Wild Horse Springs

A Ransom Canyon Romance

by Jodie Thomas

Blurb:

In the heart of Ransom Canyon, sometimes the right match for a lonely soul is the one you least expect.

Dan Brigman may not lead the most exciting life, but he’s proud of what he’s achieved: he’s a respected lawman, and he’s raised a bright, talented daughter on his own. But finding a lone, sparkly blue boot in the middle of a deserted highway gets him thinking maybe the cowgirl who lost it is exactly the shake-up he needs.

After losing her baby girl, Brandi Malone felt like her soul died along with her daughter. Now singing in small-town bars to make ends meet, she’s fine being a drifter—until a handsome sheriff makes her believe that parking her boots under his bed is a better option.

College grad Lauren Brigman has just struck out on her own in downtown Dallas when a troubling phone call leads her back home to Crossroads. Her hometown represents her family, friends and deepest hopes, but also her first love, Lucas Reyes. Will Lauren’s homecoming be another heartbreak, or a second chance for her and Lucas?

Amazon | Books-A-Million | Barnes & Noble

*****

Excerpt:

“Brandi!” Hank, the owner, yelled. “Sheriff’s got something for you.”

The tall man in a tan uniform moved toward her, and for a moment she considered running. But he was between her and the door, and the guy’s face, framed in the shadows of his hat, looked like he operated strictly by the book.

She had no outstanding bills or fines or tickets. She hadn’t committed a crime. There was no reason the law wanted her, so the sheriff must have questions about the bar, or maybe her old van parked outside…

Brandi stood and waited as the sheriff neared. She was stronger than she’d been months ago. She didn’t have to run from questions.

When she’d first hit the road, she hated strangers asking where she was from or anything about her family. She didn’t want to talk about anything but her music. Nothing else mattered. Nothing else existed.

Only, when this stranger in a uniform raised his eyes to look up at her standing on the small stage, he smiled as if he was happy to see her. “Morning, ma’am,” he said.

She didn’t miss that the lawman’s eyes ran the length of her body before he reached her face. Could he have been checking her out? Surely not. Not if he called her ma’am.

“Morning,” she managed to say. “What’s the problem?”

“No problem.”

He smiled again, and she had the feeling that he was a man who didn’t smile often. Brandi relaxed slightly. He had honest blue eyes.

“This wouldn’t happen to be yours?” he asked as he lifted a boot. “It kind of looks like something you might wear.”

Brandi exploded. “Yes! Someone stole them out of my van two weeks ago. In their hurry, they dropped the left one in the parking lot.” She bounced down from the two-foot-high stage. “I loved those boots. I thought I’d lost this one forever, but I couldn’t bring myself to toss the other one away.”

The sheriff stood as stiff as a mannequin while she hugged him.

“Thank you. Thank you.” She reached for the boot.

He pulled it away. “Now wait a minute. I have to have proof.” He was smiling again, obviously enjoying himself. “Maybe you need to try it on. The slipper needs to fit. I think it’s the law, or maybe just a rule.”

She looked down at the tennis shoes she was wearing. “I have to have that boot. I own the match. One boot’s no good without its mate.”

“I’ll need to see the left one first before I hand this one over.”

“Follow me.” She shifted and straightened as if planning to march, playing along with his game.

*****

Author Info:

New York Times bestselling author Jodi Thomas is a fifth-generation Texan who sets many of her stories in her home state, where her grandmother was born in a covered wagon. She is a certified marriage and family counselor, a Texas Tech graduate and writer-in-residence at West Texas A&M University. She lives with her husband in Amarillo, Texas.

Connect with Jodi!

Website | Facebook | Twitter

*****

Giveaway:

Wild Horse Springs by Jodi Thomas – $25 Giftcard

https://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/82ae250c50/

*****

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