Book Review – Home Sweet Home

22 Friday May 2015

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

Tags

Book Review, Candis Terry, Home Sweet Home, Sweet Texas series

Releasing next week (and just in time to kick off your summer reading) is the updated version of Candia Terry’s Home Sweet Home. This novella is guaranteed to pull at the heart strings.

*****

Home Sweet Home

A Sweet, Texas Novella

by Candis Terry

Releasing May 19^th, 2015

(Re-Issue with Additional Content)

Avon Impulse

Blurb:

Before Candis Terry’s wild Wilder brothers met their matches, a soldier gets a homecoming in Sweet, Texas.

HE’S GIVEN UP…

Army Ranger, Lieutenant Aiden Marshall, fought in some of the most hellish corners on earth and survived. Those closest to him, did not. When he returns home to Sweet, Texas, he believes he’s broken and has lost everything-including his soul. The only fair thing he can do is tell the woman who’s patiently waited for him to come home-to move on with her life-without him.

BUT SHE NEVER WILL

Sassy waitress Paige Walker has no intention of walking away from the man of her dreams. He gave his all for his country and served with honor. Now it’s time to pull him from the darkness and give him hope. With a heap of love, the help of the entire town, and a tail-wagging companion, Paige makes sure her hero knows there’s no place like home sweet home.

From author Candia Terry: “The inspiration for HOME SWEET HOME came from an article I’d read about a soldier who been forced to leave the pup he’d rescued in Afghanistan because it wasn’t allowed to bring the animal back to the U.S. In writing the story I realized that rescue animals are a huge part of the romances I write. Since I’m prone to rescue four-legged friends in my personal life I thought that maybe I could help in a bigger way. When I started looking into rescue centers I was overwhelmed by not only the number of animals in need but the generosity of the volunteers who often nurse these animals back to health so they can be adopted. The love and loyalty of an animal is unconditional and I’d like to see them have the opportunity to be loved right back. I know I can’t help them all, but I hope these donations will help as many as possible.”

Link to Follow Tour: http://www.tastybooktours.com/2015/03/home-sweet-home-sweet-texas-novella-by.html

Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/24951868-home-sweet-home?from_search=true

Goodreads Series Link: https://www.goodreads.com/series/113447-sweet-texas

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

*****

Excerpt:

“When did you get home? Why didn’t your brother tell me? How long will you be home? Do you want something to eat? Of course you do. Dumb question. Scratch that.”

Aiden couldn’t help but smile as Paige fired off a volley of questions, then finished them off with a random thought.

Just like old times.

She’d always been that girl.

The one who had a million things going on all at once and tried to keep them all in order inside her head. At times, she came off a bit scrambled even though, for the most part, she had it more together than anyone he’d ever met. Aiden knew she saw every day as a gift. She saw life as something priceless that should be hit at full speed and explored twenty-four hours a day.

When they’d been together, he’d managed to keep her in bed for several of those hours a day just to show her that a lot could be accomplished in a prone position too. But even then, between making love, she’d come up with a list of half a dozen things she wanted to do that day, next week, or a year down the road. They’d done a hell of a lot of exploring in those days, and even if he hadn’t been able to keep up with her eagerness on the calendar, he managed to keep her enthusiasm busy in other ways.

“A few days ago,” he said, answering her first question, then followed up with the rest. “Ben didn’t tell you because he didn’t know. And yes, I’d love a Diablo burger, a double order of sweet-potato fries, and a marshmallow Snickers milk shake.”

It didn’t take a rocket scientist to know immediately that she was hurt because he’d taken so long to come see her. By rights, she should have been first on his list. And she would have been, but he had obligations to visit Bobby’s and Billy’s folks. And after those visits, he had barely been able to look at himself in the mirror.

The wounded look in her eye disappeared, and her smile reappeared. Apparently, she realized too why he hadn’t come to see her first.

“Awww. Your favorite foods.” She shifted her weight from one sexy hip to the other. “I’ll bet you’ve been craving those for a long time.”

He’d been craving her too, but that kind of thinking had to stop.

“Pretty much since I boarded the plane for Afghanistan and left American soil.” Funny how the moment you knew you couldn’t have something, you wanted it even more.

“Well, the wait is over. You sit right there, and I’ll have Bud put your order on a rail.” Her tennis shoes squeaked as she turned and rushed off into the kitchen.

With all day in front of him and nothing to do, Aiden could watch her through the order window, excitedly gesturing with her hands while she spoke with Bud. Still, he couldn’t help wonder out loud … “A rail?”

The old man with the bald head next to him nodded and grinned. “She’s puttin’ the hurry up on it for you.”

“Oh.”

Guilt wrapped around Aiden’s throat and gave a hard squeeze. The faster Paige moved, the sooner he’d have to deliver the news. She looked so damned happy to see him, he hated to burst her bubble. Hated to hurt her in any way. But it had to be done. No matter how badly he might think he wanted it to be otherwise.

“For a man who’s got a pretty woman like that scurrying around to make time to be with him, you sure got a grim look on your puss.”

The man sitting next to him, Chester Banks, was well into his eighties. He’d had more ex-wives than Disneyland had rides. Over the years, his nose had grown, and his eyes had sunk. He probably weighed all of a hundred pounds soaking wet, was bowlegged, and wore his Wranglers so starched, his arthritic knees could barely bend. But Chester had no qualms whatsoever about chasing the ladies who were at least six decades younger.

“Probably matches what’s inside my head,” Aiden verified.

“Oh?” A scraggly gray brow lifted, and a smile broke across Chester’s wrinkled lips. “So you’re saying the lovely Paige is up for grabs?”

*****

Review:

I think I vaguely remember the For Love and Honor Anthology from back in 2012 and I kinda even remember Aiden & Paige (which I think speaks well for Ms Terry if I can remember a novella in a collection from 3 years ago). There have been quite a few Sweet, Texas stories since then but since this is a re-release of the novella that kicked it off I think it is a fantastic place for new readers to start.

Paige has an amazingly huge heart, lots of patience and understanding, and the love and tenacity to keep waiting for a man who didn’t really do a lot to keep her hoping. It wasn’t that he didn’t love her, he just didn’t want to have her wait for a soldier who might not come back … silly man. Paige understands that having given her heart that it is better to embrace that love and hope for his safe return. While he’s gone, she lives her life but holds onto that love – sending him letters and packages, and planning for their hoped-for future.

Aiden has seen a lot as a Ranger and lost his two best friends. He’s feeling the weight of everything he’s been thru and doesn’t believe he deserves Paige’s love. Luckily for him, she isn’t giving up on them or going to let him give up on himself. As he spends time in Sweet, especially with her, Aiden slowly starts to embrace life again. And with the support of the town behind them, he might just learn to let himself love again as well.

Terry’s writing is wonderfully smooth – it moves fast and keeps you turning pages. Since this is a novella it didn’t take long to get to the HEA, but the ride was definitely a good one. We get to be there as Aiden struggles and Paige’s wisdom has her supporting him every way she can. It’s a story as sweet as the town it is set in and I think that you’ll find yourself ready for return trips (and lucky for you there are about a ½ dozen books just waiting for you).

*****

Author Info:

Candis Terry was born and raised near the sunny beaches of Southern California and now makes her home on an Idaho farm. She’s experienced life in such diverse ways as working in a Hollywood recording studio to chasing down wayward steers. Only one thing has remained the same: her passion for writing stories about relationships, the push and pull in the search for love, and the security one finds in their own happily ever after.

Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

*****

Giveaway:

Avon is hosting a Tour Wide Giveaway for a Print Sweet, TX series backlist including: ANYTHING BUT SWEET, SWEETEST MISTAKE, SOMETHING SWEETER, and SWEET SURPRISE

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/521ac4c8677/

*****

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

Book Review – Chaos and Moonlight

21 Thursday May 2015

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Book Review

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A. D. Marrow, Book Review, Chaos and Moonlight, Order of the Nines series

Chaos and Moonlight

Order of the Nines, Book 1

A.D. Marrow

The Nines, an elite group of vampires, was established to stand as protection for their race. Fractured by centuries of betrayal and loss, the group is now little more than myth, its remaining members scarred and shattered.

Taris, the oldest living vampire, is no stranger to loss and heartbreak. He is all that holds the Nines together as they struggle to save themselves from total extinction.

Enter the beautiful and briliant Dr. Sarah Bridgeman, whose medical research has resulted in a breakthrough for both humans and vampires. Her work may be the salvation this weary band of guardians has been looking for.

Taris needs to reach Sarah and enlist her help—before those aligned against him can act. Can a vampire king convince a stunning young scientist to save a species that isn’t even supposed to exist?

For now, only one thing is certain: no science can explain the explosive chemistry between them.

Chaos and Moonlight is the first installment in the Order of the Nines series, and is A. D. Marrow’s debut novel.

As the first story in a new paranormal series, Chaos and Moonlight does a great job of introducing the new world. I think there were a couple of places where an explanation might have been better happening earlier than written, but overall it’s well developed. Sometimes it is hard with the introductory novel to cover everything without throwing off the pacing but Marrow does it well – we get a great feeling for the society the vampires live in. There’s a lot of intricacies to their history which are slowly handed out but I didn’t end up with any unanswered questions and was interested all the way to the end.

Taris is great hero material. He’s strong and caring, taking his role as informal leader to heart. He is greatly affected by the setbacks they’ve experienced and the implications for their future. He, like all of them, is deeply invested in solving their problems – and that’s where Sarah comes in. I’m surprised at how well she takes the existence of vampires, but I think as a scientist that it might be easier to accept the unexplainable. Those difficulties definitely are an interesting twist – I won’t give away too many details because it plays a big part in why Sarah is brought into their world. But it’s one that I hadn’t thought about before but it makes sense and adds a nice complexity to their lives.

There are bad guys – what paranormal book isn’t made better by a villain – and I have to say I really want to see more from these. Despite all of the awful things that they’ve done, I’m intrigued by the idea of redemption … but I’m also afraid that too much has happened. There are also good guys, of course, who will also get their own story. I’m intrigued to see where Marrow goes from here since it looks like their is an answer to the big problem in the first book.

If paranormal romance is your thing (think Black Dagger Brotherhood or The Sentinels) then you may have found yourself a new series. With a large and fascinating group of characters, Marrow has the potential for a sexy new series on her hands.

Spotlight – Once Upon a SEAL

20 Wednesday May 2015

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Contest, Sneak Peek

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Lucky Thirteen series, Once Upon a SEAL, S.M. Butler, Suzan Butler

Meet the Military Men of the Lucky Thirteen Series in Once Upon a Seal by Suzan Butler!

Available starting May 19^th is the fifth novel in the Lucky Thirteen series, ONCE UPON A SEAL from New York Times and USA Today best-selling author, Suzan Butler! Read how a small town girl starts to change her perceptions after conversations with a reclusive former Navy SEAL.

Check out Suzan’s recent post about summer reads on Fresh Fiction!

*****

Once Upon a SEAL

A Lucky Thirteen Novel

by S.M. Butler

Blurb:

Maddie Benson has spent her entire life in Sugar Falls and has never ventured—nor wanted to venture—beyond her small town’s safe borders. But when her delivery job takes her to the doorstep of one very reclusive, former Navy SEAL, Sebastian McIntyre, her small town perceptions are challenged with every conversation they have. It’s not long before she’s losing herself—and her heart—to the mysterious man behind the door.

Bastian’s scars are deeper than the surface. They’re embedded into his soul, and he’s content to keep them buried. But the second Maddie ends up on his doorstep with her sparkling smile and her sunshine hair, his quiet new life shatters and she just might be able to excise the demons he’s tried hard to keep tucked away—if he lets her in.

When Bastian’s old life comes haunting them, he knows he should let her go. But the light she shines on his soul keeps the darkness within him at bay. Letting her go may take more strength than he has, and keeping her close could get her killed.

On Sale in Print and Digital: May 19, 2015

Amazon | Barnes and Noble

Add ONCE UPON A SEAL to your TBR pile on Goodreads!

*****

Excerpt:

Tommy’s Grocery was the only grocery store in Sugar Falls. We had a lot of older folks that lived out in the country, so I frequently ran out deliveries for them. But as I surveyed the contents of the delivery I had now, making sure I had them all, this wasn’t for one of the older couples, and I hadn’t recognized the name on the order either. Sebastian? It sounded like a younger guy. Why couldn’t a younger guy come get his own groceries?

And it wasn’t a particularly large order either. Lots of fruits, vegetables, a package of razors. So I imagined he was a clean-shaven health nut. Not that I cared either way. I got paid no matter what. And honestly, even though it was hot outside, I still liked getting the fresh air and not being stuck in the store all day.

The house wasn’t a rundown piece of crap like I expected, which was further evidence that it wasn’t an older man. The house was cute, gorgeous and had colorful flowers lining the front porch. Pretty walking stones framed the sides of the circular driveway. The grass was slightly overgrown, but mostly, the yard was well- landscaped. Someone spent hours on it regularly. This was not the work of a landscaper. This house was cared for with love, by someone who liked working with his hands.

Which only made me more curious of the owner.

I got out of my truck and grabbed the three bags from the passenger side. The heat beat down on me as I walked up. I rapped sharply on the door and waited. It was solid oak, with two rectangular window panes spanning half the height of the door. The decorative glass obscured a clear view of the inside, but I could see a vague shape of a man coming toward the entrance to the house.

But the door didn’t open. A gruff voice barked, “Who is it?”

“Maddie Benson. I have your delivery from Tommy’s.” As if for emphasis, I lifted one arm so he could see the shape of the bag through the decorative window.

“Just a sec.” His form moved away. A minute or two passed as I waited for him to return. He came back, and the chain rattled as he unlocked it. I started forward when the door cracked open, but he didn’t let it open. “Leave it on the mat.”

Slowly, I set the bags down. “Okay. Um… It’s twenty-five sixty.” I squinted my eyes to look through the glass, as if that would make it easier to see him.

His hand snaked around the door, holding a twenty and a ten. The hand was large, fitting the massive shape I could make out on the other side of the door. “Keep the change.”

I took the bills from him. “Thanks, um…” I glanced at the ticket in my hand, skimming over it quickly. “Mr. McIntyre.” I stopped. McIntyre? “You’re related to Jenny?”

The door slammed shut in answer.

I glared at the shut door. Wasn’t that just nice. Was this how he treated everyone or was I just special? I almost wanted to knock and tell him what an asshole he was, but instead, I turned and headed back to my truck.

*****

Author Info:

Suzan Butler writes adult contemporary romance and has a penchant for Dr. Pepper, ice hockey, and world domination. She lives in Texas under a not-so-secret identity with two monsters, writing naughty books and planning the next step in her evil plans into the twilight hours of the night because that’s when it’s quiet in the house. She loves to hear from readers.

Suzan also has a monthly newsletter she shares with her alter ego, New York Times and USA Today bestseller, S.M. Butler, who writes new adult romantic suspense and military romance. In the newsletter, you’ll find information about new releases, updates on future books, contests, giveaways, get first peek at new covers, and find out where she’ll be visiting through books signings and conventions throughout the year.

*****

Giveaway:

Follow the tour and you could win some awesome prizes!

Grand Prize: $25 Amazon or B&N gift card

Runner-up Prizes: Digital copies of any one (1) book by Suzan Butler in the Lucky Thirteen series (except Once Upon A Seal)

http://www.barclaypublicity.com/book-scoop-blog/once-upon-a-seal-by-suzan-butler-release-blitz-giveaway

Guest Post – Falling for His Best Friend

19 Tuesday May 2015

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour

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Falling for His Best Friend, Katee Robert, Out of Uniform series

Out today, the always awesome Katee Robert has a new book and you guys are in for a treat! And to celebrate, Katee was nice enough to answer a few questions for us.

If you haven’t already make sure you check out all the delights on Katee’s book list, including His to Keep,

*****

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

I love the push and pull between the two main characters as they fight for and against falling in love. It’s such a unique journey for each couple, and I never get tired of exploring their attraction and finding out new things!

*What is your favorite romantic story (movie/book, fact/fiction)?

I don’t know if I can pick just one! Anne Bishop’s Black Jewels trilogy is a favorite. The relationship that starts and develops between Damon and Janelle is so great because they have to basically walk through hell and back in order to be together and fight through some seriously insane odds, and their love for each other never wavers.

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

I’d want to be one of Kresley Cole’s characters! I love the heroines she write (and the heroes too, for obvious reasons). I think I’d either pick Mari or Chloe. Those were two of my favorites of hers!

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

Oh man! That’s a good question. Each book has it’s unique pleasures and challenges. I LOVED writing Drew and Avery’s book (Falling for His Best Friend) because their dynamic is so off-the-wall and great. On the flip side, I was in sheer bliss while writing The Marriage Contract because it was new-to-me in a lot of ways—my catnip!

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

Once upon a time I thought I wanted to be an FBI profiler (how the hell I got from that to romance writer is beyond me), but I think in reality I’d do better as like a used book store owner or a librarian. Something to do with books for sure, though!

*****

Falling for His Best Friend

An Out of Uniform Novel

by Katee Robert

Blurb:

Avery Yeung’s biological clock just went off early. Thanks to her family’s medical history, she’s running out of time to get knocked up. And the only guy within donating distance? Her overprotective—and irritatingly hot—best friend. So clearly she needs an anonymous donor…

Anonymous donor? Over Sheriff Drew Flannery’s dead body. While daddyhood will never be in the cards for a man with his past, Drew won’t let Avery shop for a “popsicle pop.” He’ll do what’s right for his best friend by doing his best friend. But only if they do it properly.

But there’s nothing “proper” about it. Between the bed, the kitchen counter, and against his squad car, Avery and Drew are having the hottest sex ever. They can’t get enough of it—or each other. And without knowing it, they’ve crossed the one line that could ruin their friendship forever…

Available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble

*****

Author Info:

New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author Katee Robert learned to tell stories at her grandpa’s knee. She discovered romance novels and never looked back. When not writing sexy contemporary and speculative fiction romance novels, she spends her time playing imaginary games with her wee ones, driving her husband batty with what-if questions, and planning for the inevitable zombie apocalypse.

http://www.kateerobert.com/

Spotlight – Love Overcomes

19 Tuesday May 2015

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Contest, Sneak Peek

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Angela Schroeder, Love Overcomes

Got a busy day today – starting with a sweet new contemporary romance from Angela Schroeder. I’ve got a little peek for you below, but I’ve seen a few others and this one looks like it could be a heartbreaker (but in a good way).

*****

Love Overcomes

by Angela Schroeder

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Age category: Adult

Publisher: Anaiah Press

Release Date: October 21, 2014

Blurb:

Going to Hollywood was supposed to be something that would change Clara Mackenzie’s life forever.

Her younger sister, single mother Arabella, never imagined that going to California with her sister would have such a huge impact on her life. Now, she needs to try to overcome her past and try to trust again or be doomed to be single forever.

Arabella Mackenzie and her son Liam have never wanted or needed anyone other than their family. When Arabella meets Jeremy Fowlis she begins to have feelings for a man for the first time since before her son was born. Shy, Clara begins to fall for an actor of her own when she meets dashing Jake.

Jeremy is not used to women who do not want to date him because he is an in-demand actor let alone a woman who does not even recognize him. He finds he wants to know more about her but is not sure if he can handle the fact that she is a single mother and has a past that seems to be shrouded in mystery.

Can Arabella and Jeremy both overcome their doubts, fears and past in order to find love?

You can find Love Overcomes on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22387163-love-overcomes

You can buy Love Overcomes here:

– Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Love-Overcomes-Angela-Schroeder-ebook/dp/B00OU6E50G

– Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/love-overcomes-angela-schroeder/1120631335?ean=2940046364965

– Kobo: http://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/ebook/love-overcomes

– Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/487148

*****

Excerpt:

Jeremy watched Arabella’s face as they played Bluff. She was trying so hard to keep a serious expression but he could see the twinkle in her eyes every time she laid down something other than what she called.

Arabella’s laughter broke into his thoughts. He looked over at Jake and Clara to discover that Clara was curled against the sofa, almost asleep. Jake and Arabella were both looking at him. “What?”

Jake looked at Arabella with a huge grin on his face. “Nothing. We’re just waiting for you to take your turn.” Jake looked at his watch. “Oh, for about the past five minutes.” He grinned as Arabella softly laughed again.

“I doubt that it’s been that long.” He laid down two cards and called out aces but he looked up when he heard the two of them break out into laughter. “What in the world?”

“Nothing. Nothing at all,” Jake replied quietly, as if he had just remembered that Clara and Liam were sleeping. Arabella stood to get a cup of hot tea. She refilled the guys’ sweet tea, drew Jeremy’s jacket closer to her, and sat back down on the floor in the living room.

“Did he notice yet?” Her green eyes darted between the two of them.

“What am I supposed to notice?” he asked, wondering how deep in thought he had been for either of them to have pulled some sort of stunt.

“Jake laid down about ten cards in that last hand,” she said through stifled giggles.

He looked down at the pile of cards and saw there were several there that were neatly stacked under the two that he had just laid down.

“Well, once a cheater, always a cheater.” His mouth turned down in a scowl but eyes were smiling. He picked up his glass of sweet tea and motioned toward Jake. “Never play Monopoly with this man if he offers to be the banker.”

Jake feigned innocence before caving in, “I cannot tell a lie to you, milady. I will cheat you out of money in Monopoly. The banker should not have to do his job without getting paid.” He smiled at her, brown eyes laughing. Jake’s eyes shifted to Clara and he stood.

*****

Author Info:

Angela was born and raised in Iowa, in a river town known for its pearl buttons. Having four siblings, she never lacked for someone to play with. As she grew older, she found herself pulled into books and writing more and more. Her parents are her heroes, her siblings her confidants and tormentors, and her children her wonderful blessings.

You can find and contact Angela here:

– Website: http://angelaschroederauthor.blogspot.com/

– Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Angela-Schroeder/269007303281318

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

– Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8286447.Angela_Schroeder

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

– Google +: https://plus.google.com/102176736600470518124/posts

*****

Giveaway:

Win a $10 B&N or iTunes giftcard (US only)

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/1000e4f1101/

*****

This is my stop during the book blitz for Love Overcomes by Angela Schroeder. This book blitz is organized by Lola’s Blog Tours. The book blitz runs from 19 till 25 May, you can view the complete blitz schedule on the website of Lola’s Blog Tours: http://lolasblogtours.net/book-blitz-love-overcomes-by-angela-schroeder/

Spotlight – Taken by Desire

18 Monday May 2015

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Contest, Sneak Peek

≈ 4 Comments

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Demonic Desires series, Taken by Desire, Valerie Twombly

Starting off the week with a new paranormal series by the wonderful Valerie Twombly … if the blurb doesn’t make you take a second look that cover is sure gonna!

*****

Taken by Desire

Demonic Desires, Book 1

by Valerie Twombly

Release Date: May 18, 2015

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Blurb:

Greydon has two important missions: Find his brothers and rescue his people. His duty becomes complicated when he’s forced to beg a human to save his life.

Aimee Jarvis always considered her bookstore a detour to bigger things. Little did she realize her next stop would be the intriguing world of a demon prince. Yet, she finds the dangerous Greydon alluring.

While their attraction continues to burn, they both deny what their hearts already know. It will take the mystery of an ancient civilization and a shocking discovery for them to admit their desire.

Buy Links

Amazon | iBooks | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | ARe

Also Available for Pre-Order: Shades of Desire, including Spanish Nights.

99 cents for a limited time; includes 10 full novels.

*****

Excerpt:

Greydon and Fang checked the perimeter of the compound to be sure there was no trouble. Greydon didn’t trust Zolar, even if it was impossible for the god to enter. It would only be a matter of time before the god succeeded in finding a way in.

“So, how do you feel knowing that Aimee is part demon?” Fang asked.

Greydon shrugged. “How am I supposed to feel?”

The demon protector snorted. “You have the fucking hots for her. Why won’t you simply admit it?”

Greydon stopped outside the front door to the palace. “Just like you to speak what’s on your mind.”

“Will you deny it?” Fang raised a brow.

Greydon laughed. “No, I guess I’m not.”

“Well that’s good because her scent is all over you. So, what are you going to do about it, or have you already?”

“I don’t know.” He opened the door, crossed the threshold with Fang on his heels and immediately sensed Aimee’s restlessness. He was driven to find her. “Fang, I have something I need to do.”

“Of course you do.” The demon walked in the other direction, laughing to himself.

“I’m glad he finds this humorous,” Greydon mumbled under his breath as he followed both Aimee’s scent and the pull his tie had to her.

Seconds later, he found himself standing in the doorway of the expansive library, staring at her as she stood in front of the fire. The black yoga pants formed to every inch of her lean body and the pink tee allowed her midriff to peek out.

“You look far away.”

She jerked and spun to face him. “I didn’t hear you. I wasn’t tired so thought I’d come in here.”

He walked into the room and made himself comfortable on the couch in front of the fireplace. “Something bothering you?”

She rubbed her arms as if cold, but he knew better. She was anxious about something. He could smell it. “I’ve been thinking. I want to help you, but I’m not sure how. Maybe you can guide me in the right direction?”

He cocked his head and stared at her, then patted the seat next to him. “Come sit and we can discuss it.”

She plopped down beside him and stared straight into his eyes. “I want to get one thing straight. I know you think that your attraction to me is from the blood bond, and maybe it is. However, I’m attracted to you as well and I have no bond to blame. I liked the kiss, and well, I hope you’re not discouraged from doing it again.”

At a loss for words, he figured the best place to start was with her request to help. “Okay, let’s deal with one thing at a time. I think you might be a big help in deciphering our society. We’re taught when we are very small about this world and what happened here. However, there are many gaps. You studied ancient languages and have a love for old books.”

She nodded. “I think I know where you might be going with this. You want me to do some digging around here to see what I can learn?”

“Would you mind?” he asked, watching her eyes light up and a big smile spread across her lips. He realized he liked seeing her happy.

“Absolutely! I would be honored. I have to admit, it would also give me a chance to learn more about my supposed heritage.”

“I guess you probably have a lot of questions. I know I sure as hell do. In the morning, Fang and I plan to go back to the compound where you were held, and see if we can locate the others.”

Aimee stared off into the flames. “I’m sure by now they know I’m gone.” Her pleading gaze came back to meet his. “You have to save the other humans there too. God only knows what they’ve done to them.”

The need to provide comfort coursed through him so he brushed his thumb down her cheek, desiring the intimate contact. “I’ll do my best, but you have to understand. My people, and especially my brothers, come first. After that I will not hesitate to save who I can.”

“Of course I understand, and I wouldn’t expect any less.” She leaned into his palm and desire darkened her hazel eyes.

He couldn’t stand it anymore, so he leaned in and brushed his lips across hers. He wanted more, and even though she’d admitted being attracted to him, he still held back. However, it took him by surprise when she placed her palms on his chest and pushed him back into the couch. Her lips never broke contact with his and when he could go no further, she wrapped her arms around his neck. Her tongue pressed and he opened, allowing her to sweep in and taste him. She positioned herself between his spread legs and the next thing he knew, she was grinding against his swollen erection.

She laced her fingers in his hair as her tongue continued to plunder his mouth. Never before had he given control to a woman. He wondered why, since he was loving every second of it.

He slid his hands down her back and cupped her ass, digging his fingers into the firm flesh. She moaned into their kiss and pressed harder against him. Heat radiated between her thighs and caused his shaft to ache. He needed both his cock and his fangs buried deep inside her, but damn he had to stop this and quickly.

*****

Author Info:

As a child, Valerie would often get into trouble for peeking at her mother’s favorite TV show, Dark Shadows. She can still hear her mother saying. “It will give you nightmares.” She was right of course, but that did not stop Valerie from watching. As an adult, her love of the fanged creatures never waned. She would watch any vampire movie she could find.

Being a true romantic, Valerie was thrilled when she discovered the genre of paranormal romance. Her first read was one of Lara Adrian’s, Midnight Breed Series and from there she was hooked.

Today, Valerie has decided to take her darker, sensual side and put it to paper. When she is not busy creating a world full of steamy, hot men and strong, seductive women, she juggles her time between a full-time job, hubby and her two German shepherd dogs, in Northern IL. Valerie is a member of Romance Writers of America and Fantasy, Futuristic and Paranormal Romance Writers.

Connect with Valerie:

*****

Giveaway:

Win a $20 Amazon Gift Card

https://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/b6938c4230/?

*****

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

Book Review – Monica’s Match

15 Friday May 2015

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

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Book Review, Katya Armock, Monica's Match, Perry Grove

Gonna end the week with a fun little small-town romance – take a look below and see what I thought, plus what the rest of the tour thought as well.

*****

Monica’s Match

Perry Grove #1

by Katya Armock

Blurb:

Monica has the ability to see a guy’s aura light up the first time he touches his soul mate, but she’s kept it a secret since her parents shamed her as a child. Still, she decides to start her own matchmaking company—even if she doesn’t advertise her unique ability. Business is so-so until she gets a call to find matches for the singles of the small town of Perry Grove. She’s not looking for love herself but has an immediate attraction to one of her clients. Too bad another woman lit up his aura.

Hunky dairy farmer Jeremiah wants nothing to do with his grandpa’s hare-brained matchmaking scheme but agrees to play along to appease the man who raised him. But when he meets the sexy matchmaker, he starts to rethink his single status. Too bad she’s intent on pairing him up with another woman. If there’s one thing he knows, though, it’s how to be stubborn.

Amazon | Amazon CA | Amazon UK | Amazon AU

*****

Excerpt:

Monica Morgan slammed the door of her red Camry and kicked the offending tire for good measure. “Ow. Darn it!” Her sensible black flats were no match for the doughnut wheel. Smooth move, Sherlock. Get your head in the game. You need this job or your business is toast.

She took a moment for one deep breath then hurried to the entrance of the Perry Grove United Methodist Church. Before she reached the double door, it swung open and Ed Thompson greeted her with a kind smile. His white hair was a bit shaggier around the edges than when they’d met in person seven weeks ago. She’d spent that afternoon in Perry Grove meeting with only the town council, as she had a strict rule that she couldn’t come into contact with any potential bachelors or bachelorettes in public.

That edict had raised a few eyebrows, but in the end she had sold them on her “process” with no mention of the true reason for the rules. No one needed to know she saw a guy’s aura light up the first time he made physical contact with his soul mate. In a public setting, even one as small as Perry Grove, she ran the risk that more than one woman or man could brush against a man at the same time and mess up Monica’s aura-reading mojo. So she insisted on one-on-one intake interviews with each client early on. Then she oversaw each potential couple’s first contact with no other parties in the room under the guise of wanting to see their first impressions of each other in a closed environment.

Now that she was here for her extended stay, Mr. and Mrs. Thompson would be her hosts for the next month.

Mr. Thompson held the door for her. “Glad to see you made it in one piece. Lucky you were close enough you could make it on a doughnut, but now that you’re here, Sherman’ll get it fixed right up for you. He already ordered the tire. It’ll be in tomorrow.”

Pasting on her best professional smile, she headed down the walkway, hoping he hadn’t witnessed her meltdown. “Glad to be here and to see you again, Mr. Thompson.”

The crinkle around his cornflower-blue eyes deepened with his smile. “At your service. And I told you before to call me Ed. Now let’s get you settled. We have the bachelorettes from the dating pool in the fellowship hall downstairs and the bachelor in an adjacent room, as you requested. Pat Staley—she’s the church secretary in case you don’t remember her—called all the men for today to let them know the appointments have been pushed back a few hours.”

She did remember meeting Pat briefly, as she had made a point of recording everyone’s name, occupation, and relationships in the town. “Thank you for taking care of that, Mr. Thompson. I apologize again—”

He waved a dismissive hand as they reached the stairs. “Ed. And there’s nothing you can do about a flat tire except deal with it.”

She rolled her shoulders to ease some of her tension. She hated being late. “So your grandson is still up first, correct?” An involuntary shiver echoed through her just thinking about her first client’s dimpled smile and the striking blue eyes that stared at her from the photo she’d received along with his profile information—and how inappropriate that thought was. No dating clients.

“Don’t look so glum, girl. No one blames you for being late. Although, I should warn you that Jeremiah isn’t too excited to use your services. I have to admit I strong-armed him a bit, and he’s been stuck in the Sunday school room for a few hours. I was afraid if I let him leave, I’d never get him back, if you know what I mean.” He laughed and winked conspiratorially.

*****

Review:

Monica’s Match is all about trust. In order to give love a chance, she’s going to have to share her secret and she has to decide if she’s willing to take that chance. Here the thing she’s hiding is her ability to read auras but this really applies to anyone. We all have something – funny toes, addiction to bad made-for-tv disaster movies, eating crackers in bed, psychic abilities – it doesn’t matter what it is, there is something (and most often somethings) and we have to trust that the person we are interested in can accept us for good and bad. It’s not easy but it is the only way a relationship can be successful. But I totally understood Monica’s hesitation in sharing her secret. She had it drilled into her by her parents that it was something that needed to be hid and being a good daughter she took it to heart.

I’m not sure I totally liked Monica – she is a little harsh and somewhat stand-offish, especially with Jeremiah. But when she relaxes, she becomes a lot more fun. Jeremiah has his moments as well, but I like how he poked at Monica trying to get her to loosen up. It made for some fun interactions between the two.

I’ve seen some complaints about how she treats Jeremiah later in the book and how quickly things are resolved, but I think it works for how the story is written. Just because Jeremiah changes his attitude doesn’t mean that Monica is going to do the same immediately. She’s always had that push away thing going on with him – earlier on when she thought he was meant for someone else and then later when she was afraid of getting involved. As for the big reveal, I think it just highlights the idea that it isn’t a huge problem. She’s made it into something so much worse than it is, which is understandable because the more she focused on it the more she built it up in her mind. And we’re back to that main theme – she’s gotta learn to trust.

*****

Author Info:

I like books that are funny and fun to read, but also make me think or look at the world in a new way. These days you’ll find me living my happily ever after in the Midwestern U.S. with my husband, dog and cats. I love to hear from readers, so please come find me on the Internet.

Website | Facebook | Twitter

*****

Tour Schedule:

May 3^rd

My Book Filled Life

www.mybookfilledlife.blogspot.com

Review

May 3^rd

Musings in Fiction Alley

http://musingsinficitonalley.blogspot.com/

Review

May 5^th

MJ Austin Books

mjaustinbooks.com

Review

May 6^th

Paige Bradish

http://paigebradish1996.blogspot.com/

Review

May 8^th

The Reading Head

http://www.thereadinghead.com

Review

May 10^th theverdictsout.wordpress.com

Review

Devi Nair Reviews

May 12^th

Laurie Michele

www.lauriemichele.wordpress.com

Review

May 13^th

Around the World in Books

http://www.aroundtheworldinbooks.ca/

Review

May 15^th

Romantic Reads

https://romanticreadsandsuch.wordpress.com

Review

June 8^thhttp://booksandbindings.com/

Review

Books and Bindings

Spotlight – His Ultimate Desire

14 Thursday May 2015

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Blog Tour, Contest

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His Ultimate Desire, Indigo Falls series, Joy Avery

Toady’s spotlight is only $3.99 on Amazon AND it is getting some great reviews.

Don’t forget that author Joy Avery is giving away One His Ultimate Desire Goodie Bag. Enter content below.

*****

His Ultimate Desire

Book 2 in the Indigo Falls series

by Joy Avery

Genre: Contemporary Romance, Women’s Fiction

ASIN: B00W8MUYRC

Publication Date: April 17, 2015

Blurb:

A past packed with memories…

When Marisol Chesapeake returns to Indigo Falls, North Carolina, her ex is the last person she expects to see. The second their paths cross, sparks fly out of control. There’s no denying the attraction that still lingers, but there’s no way she can allow herself to act on it. No matter how badly she needs his strong, protective arms around her.

A future filled with possibilities…

Kincaid Tinsdale has spent the last few years away from Indigo Falls, and the hurtful memories there. But now he’s back, and so is the woman he’s dreamt about for the past ten years. The second his eyes settle on his ex, it awakens a hunger only she can satisfy. There’s just one problem. By the looks of it, Marisol wants nothing to do with him. But looks can be deceiving.

A present that will determine everything…

She’s not searching for love—especially his. He’s not giving up. Will the flame that once blazed between them be reignited? Or will she simply remain his ultimate desire?

Amazon: http://amzn.to/1EsXu68

Tour Hosted by WNL www.wnlbooktours.com

*****

Author Info:

Joy Avery is a contemporary romance author who loves watching her imaginary friends fall in love. In addition to HIS ULTIMATE DESIRE, she’s the author of SMOKE IN THE CITI, HIS UNTIL SUNRISE, and CUPID’S ERROR: a novella. Joy is a member of Romance Writers of America and Heart of Carolina Romance Writers. When not crafting her next love story, she enjoys reading, spending time with the family, playing with her two dogs, and cake decorating.

Website: http://www.joyavery.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/authorjoyavery

Twitter: www.twitter.com/authorjoyavery

*****

Giveaway:

Author is giving away One (1) His Ultimate Desire Goodie Bag.

Enter to Win. Content open to USA only

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/96d196a628/

Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the author Joy Avery and is hosted and managed by Paulette from Write Now Literary Book Tours. If you have any additional questions – feel free to send an email to Paulette @ pharperjohnson@gmail.com

*****

Tour Info:

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Book Review – The Millionaire Daddy Project

13 Wednesday May 2015

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Book Review

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Book Review, Men of the Zodiac series, Roxanne Snopek, The Millionaire Daddy Project

The Millionaire Daddy Project

Men of the Zodiac series

by Roxanne Snopek

(Entangled Indulgence)

Sign: Leo

He takes control…and gives all kinds of pleasure

In the space of about a second, successful restaurateur Dane Bergman has gone from millionaire playboy to daddy. Now he’s the sole guardian of a very adorable and willful five-year-old child, and he’s counting on his executive assistant, Pamela Atwater, to save his ass. Even if it means bringing her along on a month-long ocean-side retreat…

Pamela Atwater prides herself on being the perfect assistant. Whatever Dane wants or needs, she’s there – pretending to ignore Dane’s golden charm and drop-dead gorgeousness. On vacation, however, Pamela sees a side of Dane she never imagined. And it’s a side that tempts her to cross the line between professional and personal. But is one month enough time to prove to Dane that his perfect assistant might just be his perfect match?

I love, love, LOVE Roxanne Snopek’s books. The characters are always so interesting and full of life, while the plot just keep me glued to the pages.

Dane is one of those hottie billionaires that are so popular in romances – he’s smooth, gorgeous, wealthy, and knows how to play just as hard as he works. He’s also anti-commitment … then the ultimate commitment, a little girl, lands on his doorstep and shakes up his world. Luckily he has his oh-so-efficient assistance to help, but the more time they spend together, the more attracted to her he becomes.

Pam knows exactly the kind of man her boss is – short term affairs with gorgeous women. But she also knows how smart and sexy he is. Forced together thanks to a haunted little girl, she’s finding him super-hard to resist. She’s just about the only person in the world who will force him to be the dad that he can be. But can she live with (or without) the man she makes him into …

Dani is just too adorable and the interactions between the three of them as they learn how to navigate new waters is just too darn sweet, heartbreaking and funny all rolled into one addictive ball. They are totally believable and touching as they slowly become a family unit. And just because some might find the secretary/boss fantasy a little clichéd doesn’t mean that in the hands of a great author like Snopek the dynamic can’t be just about perfect.

Book Review – A May Bride

12 Tuesday May 2015

Posted by romanticreadsandsuch in Book Review

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A May Bride, a Year of Weddings novella, Book Review, Meg Moseley

A May Bride

by Meg Moseley

“Meg Moseley follows her stellar debut with this lovely dive down south . . . this inspirational tale is destined to be another winner.” -Julie Cantrell (on Gone South)

A year’s worth of novellas from twelve inspirational romance authors. Happily ever after guaranteed.

She thinks she has prepared for her wedding all her life . . . but it seems she may have forgotten the most important part.

Ellie Martin, a country girl in Atlanta, has dreamed of a traditional wedding all her life-a wedding just like the one her younger sister is planning back home. Their single mom will pay for Alexa’s wedding, but Ellie started her own wedding fund years ago. She only needs to find a groom.

At a wedding at her church, Ellie bumps into a man who’s one of the guests. She’s noticed him around the neighborhood, but today he introduces himself as Gray Whitby. They embark on a whirlwind romance, but her mother doesn’t trust freewheeling men like Gray.

When Ellie risks her own future for her sister’s sake, Gray feels betrayed. Will he always play second fiddle to Ellie’s family?

Will Ellie and Gray reconcile their differences so her dream wedding can come true, or will the romance they’ve begun come crashing down?

I totally understood Ellie and her troubles. Feeling like she needs to follow other peoples wants, learning how to set boundaries in her life is very tough for her. With the kind of mother she has, it is easy to get why she hesitates so much with stepping away from the path her mom decides is right.

Managing family expectations is never easy, but Ellie’s packs a little extra punch. Then she meets Gray and he’s definitely hard to resist (I was half in love with him myself). It’s an emotional journey for her but one that makes their HEA all the sweeter.

I have really been enjoying these little novellas – they are nice bite size romantic treats, quick reads with a lot of heart, and they’ve exposed me to new authors as well. With A May Bride Moseley delivers a winner. It is a story of emotions, troubles and love, with complicated family dynamics and personal growth.