A chilling new spin-off series from USA TODAY bestselling author Debra Webb sure to keep you up all night…
Former homicide detective Clint Hayes has his first client as a private investigator: a fragile beauty he isn't sure he can trust. An injury has left Natalie Drummond with gaps in her memory, and she sees and hears things that aren't there. But she's sure she shot an intruder in her Birmingham mansion. So where's the body, the gun, the evidence? When it's clear someone is trying to kill his vulnerable client, Clint appoints himself her protector, working overtime not to fall for her. But someone is dead set that Natalie never regains her memories—or makes new ones with Clint.
Eerie and thrilling, intriguing tale with culprits so close to home you would never want to suspect them for the crimes committed.
I liked how the story started with the connection to the 'mother series' this is a spinoff from. The unexpected point of view and the history to start the PI firm nicely gave new readers the background information they needed to start on the series. The puzzle Natalie and Clint are putting together is not only nearly impossible to solve because of her memory loss, but it seems that the key players keep ending up dead. That creates an intense atmosphere, and with every single clue the person behind the mystery comes closer to home. So many events are connecting, and the evil, deadly force coming closer to Natalie. I admit I had chills at one point while reading this. The energy is vivid, the violence is harsh, and the 'whodunnit' isn't clear to the reader because of the multiple possibilities that just keeps accumulating as the story goes on. Natalie's memory issue is cleverly done,it is believable, real, scary, and the worst nightmare most has at one time of their lives, 'what if I forget who I am one day'?! The romance stays in the background, as Natalie and Clint are focused on finding the keys to the mystery and to keep Natalie alive. But the feelings between them are credible and evident, the attraction detectable, their desire to each other palpable. I enjoyed the foundation that was created to the new series, the characters piqued my interest, and I'm looking forward to more to come in the series. Fascinating and entertaining suspense mixed with charming, appealing romance ~ Four Spoons
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This summer I have had conversations with several authors about the review process, timetable, and information on what authors should include in the initial email asking for a review. Finally, an author asked me if I could write a post about the whole process.
After considering this for a while, here are my thoughts, from my perspective, with the experiences I have had. I'm not pretending to speak for any or all other book reviewers out there, but this is what I have learned in the past two years I have been 'a professional book reviewer'. It’s a list of things I would like authors to know. What I would like authors to know #1. When should you ask for the review? I often get emails asking for a review of a book that came out two weeks ago. They need the review RIGHT NOW. That almost always doesn’t work for me or my schedule. I prefer to work with authors who are organized and give me plenty of time to read and write my review. My blog schedule generally fills up 2-3 months ahead of time. When should you send out a request for a review? As soon as you have your book available to send. What I would like authors to know #2: If I’ve liked you before, I’ll probably be glad to read and review you again. As an author, if you see on Goodreads or another review site that a reviewer has read your book one in a series and liked it, most likely they would love to read more of the series as well. This is your easy sell for a review. To contact them and say "I saw that you liked so and so, would you be interested read more of the series?..." And in some cases, you might be able to arrange the reviews of the two or three following books in the series. What I would like authors to know #3: Reviews of books I don’t like Since a review is always a personal opinion of a story, this is bound to happen if you have a large readership, and it should be okay. Because the lower scored reviews matter, they make your better reviews more reliable, and they sell books. When I go to buy a book written by a new author to me, I look at the reviews first. Always. The % of good and bad and the ugly. Then I read the bad reviews. Is there a consistency to them or are the issues just personal to the reader? Are the issues something that I could live with, are the issues important to me? Yes, many authors wish that we never post reviews anything under 3,5 spoons/stars whatever we are handing out, but I promise you, I would never buy a book with 200 glowing reviews and not one negative opinion on the book. And a lot of readers are like that. Why? Because readers are humans and we rarely agree on everything. I run to the stories that make the readers think enough to get diverse of opinions. On the other hand, the not so glowing reviews are hard to write. At least for me. They take the most time, and I keep rewriting them, looking at the notes, trying to find something positive and glowing to say about the book, because there's always something that was good, and I try to keep going at it until I find it. What I would like authors to know #4: I have a target audience too, and it isn’t you I don't write my reviews to the authors, no, I write them to the readers. I write them so they will know what I thought about the story, and maybe that could help them make a decision if they are going to invest their money and time on the title. I try to focus on things that I would want to know as a reader in order to know whether to buy a book. What I would like authors to know #5: I don’t read everything under the sun! And because it takes so much out of me to write a 'bad review' (really, you can ask my close friends they can tell stories), I am rather picky with what I choose to read. I have stated clearly on the Books & Spoons ABOUT page what kind of books I like, to great detail. Here’s exactly what I have posted: “I love to read romantic suspense and military novels with happy endings, no cliffhangers, and no third person drama/cheating issues, no 1st person POV. In my romantic suspense, I enjoy fast, intense action, with alpha males and independent and strong women, who are willing and able to fall in love. I don't read historical, science fiction, or paranormal romance books, and rarely have I enjoyed the Young Adult genre either. They say life is too short to read books you don't like, and as I like to make the most of my life, I'll stick to those I know I'll find enjoyable and entertaining.” So you can imagine my feelings when an author sent me a request to review his “historical, young adult novel with paranormal elements”. True story. Really? Why should I do you this service when you didn’t even respect me enough to look through what I do or don’t read. What I would like authors to know #6: You want to thank me? Share my review! To create a review post on the website is a labor of love and I put a lot of time into it. I want it to be something I can be proud of, something that people would want to like and share on social media. And that takes time. Time, I want to invest, obviously, since I started the website, but a time I want to be wisely used. I don't get compensated for my reviews, I'm only provided a free eARC or an emailed advance copy of the book. And that's great. There's a possibility that my website could bring a modest income one day via ads, and that would be great as well. But to do that, it needs visibility on social media, on search engines, and on bookseller lists. I would say if you want to thank a reviewer, the best you can do is share their post of your book's review. What I would like authors to know #7: Social Media Stuff Facebook changed rules again at the end of June. Now the newsfeed is more about what our friends are doing, and if they are not actively following a page with notifications, there's even smaller percentage of followers seeing the posts unless there's action there with shares and likes. On twitter, the heart used to be 'saved', it doesn't actually mean anything to the visibility of the post to 'heart' it, you are just saving it to your specific folder on your page. You want it to be seen - you RT it to your followers. On Instagram, the # world is what matters. I am a newbie there, and still working on the best choices, but even if you have just a few followers, with the right # your image can go far and wide. Also if you heart a post, your followers can see it if they do a search, adding on to the visibility. On Pinterest, I literally have only a couple handfuls of followers, but the stats tells me week after week that the images are being seen by thousands via ads on similar pictures and accounts Pinterest itself is running. To get visibility on the seller's pages also requires likes, if someone posts a review of your book on Amazon, B&N, Kobo, Goodreads, iBooks, where ever books are sold or talked about, and you want the possible buyers to see them, go and like them. The more reviews, and likes those reviews have, more likely it is to end up being recommended by Amazon, or other pages, to other readers buying in the same genre. I hope this information is helpful and useful to the authors out there wondering about review requests. Like said, I am talking from my own experience, but with over two years of observation, I don't think my experience or routines are that far from the norm.
Two lavish destination weddings set the stage for romance and desire…
Hot Night in the Hamptons , Nana Malone A fling with the gorgeous best man is not on Elina Sinclair's to-do list as maid of honor at her best friend's Hamptons wedding. Yet former child star Gabe Anderson is intent on seduction. He's also a new client at her image consulting firm—which makes a relationship strictly forbidden. Can the onetime playboy convince her that he's the best mistake she'll ever make? Seduced Before Sunrise , Jamie Pope He was Willa Arthur's first kiss, her first everything, before his cruel betrayal shattered her confidence. Years later, Marcus Simpson has turned up in Costa Rica at the wedding of Willa's best friend. The white sandy beaches and lush jungles are irresistible—and unfortunately, so is the man she should hate. But Marcus wants more than just forgiveness. He wants Willa back, and a tropical paradise is the perfect place to prove how much…
Two stories for one! Both steaming-hot novellas that will add another heat index to your summer. I never can decide if it is a bonus, or do we miss on the story and character development because of the two novellas instead of one novel.
Hot Night in the Hamptons is sizzling hot. The attraction between Elina and Gabe gets even hotter, if possible, because of the forbidden affair they are attempting to have. I liked the honesty and straight forward thinking of Gabe. In the situations that kept rising up, he was true and honest, with the best intentions. In Seduced before Sunrise Willa and Marcus have a painful history, that no one else is aware of. Willa's anger towards Marcus after all the years since the high school was surprisingly strong and made me wonder how had she been feeding it over the years, to keep it burning red hot. But the anger turns into hungry passion, Willa, and Marcus still trying to hide their attraction to the point. They were great together, they seamlessly fit together, complementing each other, making a great team. Both stories are good, entertaining, enjoyable, charming and delightful with engaging characters and alluring scenery. Light, quick, and perfect end of the summer reading with high heat factor. ~ Four Spoons
A week at a dilapidated mansion planning the restoration of Victorian era gardens was a prime contract for landscaper Luke Wells.
Finding his employer and her irritating, curvy niece already overseeing the packing of moldering antiques and planning some ghost hunting was disconcerting. The heat of desire, the emergence of a scandalous secret from the past… Talk about unexpected…
Pure joy, laughter, giggles, scares, and curves - the trademarks of a great Angela Verdenius novel that makes you smile even on the most difficult day.
Luke and Mikki are such a fun duo to be around. The sparring, banter, and repartee is brilliant and so entertaining. They spark, they flicker and flare, and they have no idea of it themselves, others around them are just having a hoot waiting for them to realize, that they are meant for each other, the perfect match made in heaven. I liked the tidbits of history that was put into the story. The ghost hunting that every now and then comes up in the author's books is always done with humor, glee, and curiosity. The suspense or danger that suddenly came to the picture was a delightful surprise and the built up on the mystery was rather intense. I love how often on the books the author writes, even though it is a new series, the people from the previous ones can suddenly visit or have a prominent part in the story. I love the connection, the continuity that it creates. I am a huge fan of the author and her BBW books. I love that there's well-written romance were big beautiful women find the happily ever after, are admired, cared for, and cherished. These books are something that I return to, have read most of them several times, and always enjoy them immensely. Luke and Mikki are no exception ~ Five Spoons
Walker Revenge
By Bernadette Marie September 1, 2016
Russell Walker’s life was spared when his truck veered off the road and flipped. When he wakes after surgery, he can only assume the medicines are making him see things, because the woman he loved—who broke his heart—is taking his vitals.
Chelsea Quinn has spent the past four years keeping clear of Russell Walker after she married another man and had a baby. Now she is thrust back into his life as his caretaker, and living with his family when her ex-husband is let out of prison. Some heartbreaks are too severe to recover from, and Russell is fighting every feeling he has as not to get his heart broken again. But sometimes the pull of love is just too strong, especially when the lives of those you love are threatened, and someone is looking for revenge.
Every time they touched his IV it made him sick. They said anesthesia would do that to a person although he was distinctly under the impression that when they gave you anesthesia it was so you wouldn’t feel anything. Why the hell did he still hurt so much and why was he throwing up?
He lurched again just as the door to his room opened and Phillip Smythe walked in. “Bad timing, man,” he said as he laid back against his pillows. “Food isn’t that bad here,” Phillip joked. “I hate this. I freaking hate it,” he said taking the wet rag the nurse had brought him and wiping his mouth. “The only good thing in my day was my nurse. Well one of them.” Phillip smiled as he pulled a chair closer to the bed and sat down. “Chelsea?” “How’d you know that?” “I talked to her. Her car died. I jumped it.” Russell squeezed his eyes shut. “She knows how to do that. I taught her.” “Sure, but she was in a hurry,” he said. “That’s what friends are for, right?” Russell set his bucket on the bed table and rested back. “She didn’t seem to want to be friends with me,” he admitted. “She transferred to another floor just so she didn’t have to be in here.” “I don’t think she knew what to do when you told her you loved her.” Russell winced. “I did say that, didn’t I?” “She said you did.” He looked at the IV bag to his side. “Truth serum pumped right into my veins huh?”
Bestselling Author Bernadette Marie is known for building families readers want to be part of. Her series The Keller Family has graced bestseller charts since its release in 2011, along with her other series and single title books. The married mother of five sons promises Happily Ever After always…and says she can write it, because she lives it.
When not writing, Bernadette Marie is shuffling her sons to their many events—mostly hockey—and enjoying the beautiful views of the Colorado Rocky Mountains from her front step. She is also an accomplished martial artist with a second degree black belt in Tang Soo Do. A chronic entrepreneur, Bernadette Marie opened her own publishing house in 2011, 5 Prince Publishing, so that she could publish the books she liked to write and help make the dreams of other aspiring authors come true too. Bernadette Marie is also the CEO of Illumination Author Events. Website Facebook Twitter The Debutante Is Mine Season's Original #1 By: Vivienne Lorret Released April 12, 2016 Avon Impulse USA Today bestselling author Vivienne Lorret launches a new historical romance series featuring the Season’s Original--a coveted title awarded by the ton’s elite to one lucky debutante... From the Season Standard: ”A true Season’s Original embodies the class, grace, and style of the ton. Such an honor ensures the recipient their pick of eligible suitors...“ Lilah’s Appleton’s prospects are looking dim. With one last chance to find a titled husband before she’s forced to wed her wretched cousin, she must make this Season count. Plain, forgettable Lilah must become the Season’s Original. Desperate, she seeks help from the devilishly charming, untitled, and thoroughly unsuitable Jack Marlowe. All she must do now is resist the tempting rogue... Bastard son and self-made man, Jack Marlowe loathes the aristocracy. When he meets Lilah, he expects her to be like all the other greedy husband-hunters. But she’s far more dangerous. Her alluring smiles and sharp tongue intrigue him. Before he knows it, he agrees to help her find a husband, revealing tricks to ensnare any man. The only problem is, his plan works too well--on him. When Lilah becomes the belle of the ball, Jack realizes he may lose her forever-unless he can take a chance on love and claim his debutante... In the midst of the terse exchange, Jack Marlowe kept a steady eye on Lilah as he moved into the room. Briefly, she wondered if he was trying to remember her name. He would not be able to, she knew. And for once, she wouldn’t care a fig. Jack Marlowe was the one man whose amnesia would make her elated beyond measure. Nonetheless, she sat straighter, waiting for him to give up the attempt and for his gaze to leave hers. His mouth quirked at one corner. “Miss Appleton. A pleasure to see you again.” A jolt of surprise snapped through her, causing the pulse at her throat to quicken. A flood of heat prickled her cheeks and her ears turned hot too. “Mr. Marlowe, have you been introduced to my niece?” Aunt Zinnia asked, disapproval lacing her tone. He inclined his head in something resembling both an answer and an absent gesture of greeting. However, everyone in the room knew that ladies of the nobility deserved first consideration, not last. “I took the matter upon myself, earlier today in fact.” Aunt Zinnia’s gaze sharpened. “Do you mean to say that you introduced yourself to Miss Appleton?” “Yes,” he answered with a chuckle. “Jack, that simply is not done in society,” Mrs. Harwick added fondly but with a waggle of her finger. “It is fortunate, then, that Miss Appleton and I did not meet in society but in the garden instead.” He turned to Lilah, an unrepentant grin on his lips. “Unless you would consider our first meeting on the street this morning.” So he had seen her. The smile, the salute--those had been for her? Something warm inside of her fluttered. For an instant, she nearly forgot how much she disliked him. Nearly. “The street!” Aunt Zinnia gripped the edge of her armrests. The subtle nuances in her expression that usually relayed her disapproval were now quite evident. “Marjorie, were you aware of this?” “Of course not. Had I known, I would have made the proper introductions. After all, Jack has been Maxwell’s friend since they were in school together.” This did not appear to appease Aunt Zinnia. “Lilah, you must think of your reputation. To be seen engaging in conversation with a man to whom you have not been introduced--and in a public square, no less--could endanger your options of finding a suitable match. We cannot afford to make any errors.” Lilah knew this all too well. “Aunt Zinnia, there was no ‘exchange’ in the street whatsoever.” “I beg to differ,” Jack added, the certainty in his tone drawing far too much attention. “I distinctly recall your smile cast in my direction.” All eyes fell upon her. She clasped her hands to make sure she wasn’t holding cymbals after all. “No, I was laughing at the man who had the audacity to ride a war horse in the middle of town,” Lilah corrected, forcing that errant fluttering to cease. “You must excuse Mr. Marlowe, for I believe he would like nothing more than to incite riots wherever he roams.” SALE $0.99
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USA Today bestselling author, VIVIENNE LORRET loves romance novels, her pink laptop, her husband, and her two sons (not necessarily in that order ... but there are days). Transforming copious amounts of tea into words, she is an Avon Impulse author of works including: Tempting Mr. Weatherstone, The Wallflower Wedding Series, The Rakes of Fallow Hall Series, The Duke’s Christmas Wish, and the Season’s Original Series.
Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads
Chased by Love
Love In Bloom: The Ryders #3 By: Melissa Foster Releasing August 17, 2016 World Literary Press
Actress Trish Ryder takes her job seriously and has no time for those who don’t. When she’s awarded a major role in a new movie featuring America’s hottest rock star, Boone Stryker, she’s beyond excited. The six-two, tattooed hunk of burning desire is known for his dedication to his craft—but when he ditches their first meeting, she begins to wonder if he’s just another rocker with a great PR team.
Sex, booze, women, and music pretty much sum up Boone Stryker’s private world. He’s coasted through life playing by his own rules with plenty of people willing to cover his tracks, and he’s not likely to change—until he meets a woman who refuses to give him the time of day, much less anything more. Sparks fly from the first moment Trish and Boone meet—Tensions run hot and desire runs hotter when they’re trapped together on a remote location with no place to hide. Will sparks ignite, or will a hurricane douse the flames? B & N | Google | iTunes | Kobo Melissa Foster is a New York Times & USA Today bestselling and award-winning author. She writes sexy and heartwarming contemporary romance, new adult romance, and women's fiction with emotionally compelling characters that stay with you long after you turn the last page. Melissa's emotional journeys are lovingly erotic, perfect beach reads, and always family oriented. Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads |Newsletter
Charge
Electric Series #1 By: E.L. Todd Releasing October 11, 2016 Self Published
White-hot, blinding, and dangerous.
That's exactly what Volt is. He's electric. The first time I met him, my body reacted. It coiled, sizzled, and sparked. I knew I wanted him because he was the first man to make me feel dead and alive at the exact same time. But within a short conversation, I knew he was unattainable. Unavailable. Now we're just friends. But will we stay friends?
Somehow, without even realizing it, Taylor became my friend.
When I first met her, I thought she was some awkward woman, and then I got to know her better and I wanted to have a one-night stand. But then she told me off and demanded the respect I didn’t give her. And boom! We were friends. I’d never had a friend that was a girl. There was always sex involved, and if sex couldn’t be had, there were some decent hand jobs. Natalie and I were friends, in a way. But I viewed her as Derek’s sister most of the time. After I got off work, I was walking to my apartment when Taylor texted me. The Muffin Girl. She usually sent me these cryptic text messages, and it was my job to figure out what she was trying to say. Now? She sent an emoji of a blueberry muffin. That wasn’t too complicated to decipher. On the way. She sent me a picture she took of herself. She was shoving the entire muffin into her mouth like a snake that was swallowing a mouse whole. I chuckled and typed a reply. Damn, that’s sexy. Then she sent me an emoji of a hand flipping me off. I laughed then shoved my phone into my pocket. I walked to the bakery and spotted her sitting outside at one of the picnic tables. She wore a long pink dress with a purple cardigan over it, her usual classroom attire. She looked like a stereotypical schoolteacher, classy but also a little nerdy. Her long brown hair was in curls and she wore a large sun hat to keep the sun out of her eyes. She looked like she belonged at the beach—minus the cardigan. “When you start a dating profile, you should make that picture as your profile picture.” “So no one will be interested in me?” “No one is going to be interested in you anyway.” She gave me a playful kick under the table. “What’s this?” I spotted the coffee and muffin on my side of the table. “I figured you didn’t want to wait in line.” “But how did you know I would come?” She shrugged. “You don’t have any friends besides me so what else would you be doing?” She made me smile bigger when I didn’t think it was possible. “Touché.” B & N | Google | iTunes | Kobo USA Today Bestselling Author, E. L. Todd is one of the most prolific authors of her genre, having published over a hundred novels. With over one million copies sold, she writes romance stories ranging from contemporary romance, new adult romance, and fantasy romance. She’s best known for her Forever and Always Series as well as her Timeless Series. She loves coffee, ice cream, and anything with sugar. Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads
HARD RAIN: The Montana Hamiltons
by New York Times bestselling author B.J. Daniels
He's meant to protect her, but what is this cowboy keeping from her about the danger she's facing?
As the daughter of a presidential candidate, Cassidy Hamilton left the Montana family ranch to escape notoriety and live her own life. But when someone tries to abduct her off a Houston sidewalk, Cassidy finds protection in the tall, dark and sexy form of cowboy Jack Durand. The gorgeous Texan doesn't recognize her, wants nothing from her and is determined to keep her safe. Jack hates keeping secrets from the beautiful Cassidy, but he knows more about her kidnapping attempt than he's admitting. Forced on the run, Jack and Cassidy begin piecing together a jagged family puzzle, exposing a plot years in the making—one that will either tear them apart or bring them closer together than ever. I’ve often painted myself into a corner with my writing. I write by the seat of my pants. It’s the only way I know how to write. I never know what the story is about until I sit down at the computer and put my fingers to the keys. As the characters appear, they tell me their story. I’m often as shocked as anyone by what they have to say. My characters have also often gotten me into trouble by saying or doing something that takes the story off in a direction I’m not sure I want to go with them. When I started the Montana Hamilton’s series, I was writing in the car, my husband driving, on our way back from a nearby town. I suddenly looked up and said, “Oh no, my rancher is running for president!” I am the least political person ever. I got a “D” in government in high school because I hated it so much. Now I had a character running for president? I knew nothing about any of that. “So don’t let him run for president,” my husband said. He should know after all the books I’ve written (more than 80) that I have no control over my characters. “He’s running for president.” I was going to have to do a lot of research. And I did. Often one of my characters will saddle up his horse and go for a ride to figure things out – or save a cowgirl in distress. But when I was writing INTO DUST, the latest in the Montana Hamilton’s series for HQN, I suddenly realized that I’d done more than paint myself into a corner. My characters were in such a dire position that there was only one way out. They would have to die. I couldn’t believe the spot we were all in. But if I have learned anything after all these books it is how to get my characters out of these jambs. I can sit around and get a headache trying to figure it out.... Or I can sit down in front of the computer, fingers on keys and write. The characters got us into this, let them get us out. If you read INTO DUST, you’ll see what happened. No one was more surprised than me.
New York Times and USA Today bestselling author B.J. Daniels lives in Montana with her husband, Parker, and three springer spaniels. When not writing, she quilts, boats and plays tennis.
Contact her at WEBSITE FACEBOOK TWITTER FOLLOW THE ULTIMATE WESTERN BLOG TOUR Western Blog Tour TOUR STOPS:Monday, August 1st: The Romance Dish – Delores Fossen guest post Wednesday, August 3rd: Broken Teepee – Trish Milburn guest post Friday, August 5th: Reading Reality – Lindsay McKenna guest post Monday, August 8th: Read Love Blog – Linda Warren guest post Wednesday, August 10th: Buried Under Romance – Diana Palmer guest post Friday, August 12th: Smexy Books – Maisey Yates guest post Monday, August 15th: Books and Spoons – BJ Daniels guest post Wednesday, August 17th: Reading is My Superpower – Cathy Gillen Thacker guest post Friday, August 19th: The Sassy Bookster – Jodi Thomas guest post Monday, August 22nd: Bewitched Bookworms – Roz Denny Fox guest post Wednesday, August 24th: The Reading Date – Linda Lael Miller guest post Friday, August 26th: From the TBR Pile – Barbara White Daille guest post Brought up by an abusive father, he left his old life a long time ago. He’s worked hard to be a decent man, to be in control, to make a good life for himself. Then he meets his neighbour who has her own past, and suddenly he’s very much afraid that he isn’t in as much control as he believed. Can he promise her forever…or will his fears get in the way?
An amazing story of abuse survivors, how their past and history affect them now, how the fact that those who are supposed to love and support you are the ones to do most damage has shaped them, and made them the person they are today.
This is the 19th story from Angela Verdenius I have read, my Kindle knew to tell me. I have loved each one of them, laughed and shed some tears, fell in love with the characters and just couldn't get enough of them and their crazy world. They have the funniest friends and families, they have joy in life in the little things, and the curve girls learn to love their mates, as well as themselves, making me swoon and sigh. Yet this story made me nervous. Because Jason was a 'villain' in a few stories before. He was the troublemaker, the one whom everyone looked for if something was wrong. He showed some signs of redemption in the last book, but I was still nervous, maybe I couldn't learn to love him after all the history, maybe I wouldn't like this story as much as the previous ones. I was wrong. I think this is my new favorite. Jason, oh Jason, he had me at the prologue. It broke my heart, but gave me hope, the abuse was so devastating, so brutal, yet he made it, he survived, he saved his mom, and they both survived. Izzy and Jason are so perfect together. The immediate connection is sizzling, but more than the physical, they have a mental connection as well. They understand each other, support each other, protect each other, and I loved reading their story and witness them both finding the mate they deserved. There's laughter, smiles, jesting, and banter, one wicked cat, a big family of heart, and a beautiful story of love, life and growing up to be the person we are meant to be. This story left me in awe and smiling through tears, marvellous indeed. ~ Five Spoons!
Instant Daddy
An abandoned baby is the last thing town founder Will Canfield expects on his doorstep. He's not the father—and the mother's unknown. But the precious little girl needs a protector. And Will never backs down from a challenge, even if it means caring for a newborn…or dealing with spitfire cattle driver Tomasina Stone. With her father gone, Tomasina's trail life has ended. Yet becoming a polished city lady feels far out of her reach. All she wants is a place where she'll be appreciated, respected…maybe loved. And the more time she spends helping Will care for the baby, the more she wonders if she's found it. She's never wanted to settle down…but Cowboy Creek—by Will's side—might finally give her heart a lasting home. Cowboy Creek: Bringing mail-order brides, and new beginnings, to a Kansas boomtown
A charming look at life right after the civil war, how the towns were built in that era, the power structure of those communities, and their fight for survival against all the dangers surrounding them.
Even though being a second book in the series, there's enough repetition of the events from the previous book, I believe this could be read as a standalone story. I was intrigued by Will in the previous book, and I was excited to get a chance to read his story. Will and Tomasina can seem as total opposite at the first sight, but more I got to know them, more I realized they were really the same, both independent thinkers, innovative, filled with new ideas and concepts, leaders who are willing to ride in first to protect their people. The passion for life, for the success of the town, for little Ava, and for each other was the thriving force between them, and in the story. The one thing I did miss in this story was the faith in God, that leads, guides, and protects the characters and is in the center stage in most of the Love Inspired stories. Alluring historical fiction of building a town after the civil war mixed with romance and entertaining characters. The bravery of the people in town, the ingenuity, and protectiveness was delightful, and little Ava stole all the hearts for sure. ~ Four Spoons
The artist who's lost her inspiration...
Cheyenne Burns is stuck. There's no other word for it. She hasn't created a new piece in over a year, and it's putting her career (and her identity!) in serious jeopardy. No matter what she tries, she just can't seem to shake free of her baggage and create. Needing a change of scenery to jumpstart her inspiration, she takes a sabbatical in the gorgeous artists' enclave of Laguna Beach. When she meets her sexy landlord, though, she realizes she might just get more out of the trip than she bargained for. The writer who's lost his mojo... Griff Hudson has been "working on his novel" for almost a decade, but the truth is, he's finished more bottles of Jack Daniels at his writing desk than he has pages. Guilt over his past has stolen his voice, and he sometimes wonders if he'll ever get it back. It's not until Cheyenne walks through his front gate that he thinks he might have finally found his muse. Can Cheyenne and Griff let go of their pasts long enough to embrace their future—together?
What a great summer read, a story that is fun and sexy, makes you smile, sigh, swoon, and yet had enough juice that made you stop and think for a minute too.
I adored the story, the pure happiness, and joy it exude. There's no conflict, no unnecessary drama, and the struggles the characters have, is deep in them, and they help each other to find a peace, a way to live with the baggage and leave some of it behind and move on. For a novella, there's just enough story to entertain and enjoy, just enough to get to know the characters and root for them. The story has a little different tone to the other Melanie Shawn's books I have read lately, but I'm assuming it was the 'Kindle world' that set the tone. At the beginning of the story, there's some language that stood out. I honestly don't even remember if the author normally uses that kind of language in their stories, since I usually don't pay attention to it, unless it stands out, as of, doesn't really fit like it did here in the beginning. But beyond that, you are going to enjoy the story, the summer sun sets, the lightness of life and love, the glee and delight of falling in love, and the passion of the creative process, and that lovely epilogue that gives the story a perfect wrap up. ~ Four Spoons
If only he had something to give her…besides love
He's only looking for a room and a fresh start, but Zach finds more than he'd bargained for when he checks into Fay Lindemuth's bed-and-breakfast. The single mom intrigues him with her quiet strength and gentle beauty. He knows he should keep his distance from Fay and her young sons. Not only is she still hung up on her ex-husband, but as an ex-marine, Zach Castro has no idea what he can offer them. No matter how much he begins to feel for her…
Refreshingly real, strikingly honest, brutally beautiful, a study of a human mind, of depression and how it can affect a person, on all the aspects of their life.
The story got so real, it was impossible not to get emotionally involved. The actions, thoughts, and behavior of the characters got me irritated, made me laugh, made me furious, had me in tears. It was like I had to go through the same process as the characters did, of acceptance, forgiveness, learning to love again, not others, but ourselves. And I am not saying the journey with the characters was easy, entertaining, or fun. It was amusing at times, alluring at others, but mostly it was harsh look into the deep inside, to question and to understand the reasons, motivations, and the expectations we have when we behave in certain ways. The story took some time to get into, I was highly irritated with Fay, until more of her history was unveiled. Her best friend I never warmed up to, I just wished her manipulating ways to vanish away. I loved the kids, they were the reason for many laughs and smiles, with their authentic curiosity, loving hearts, and brave souls. After the scene was set and the story got flowing, I gushed the rest of wishing there would have been more. After the bit slow start, the ending felt rushed, wrapped up too fast. But still, the story was complete, and the ending satisfactory, I just wished for a little picture towards the future, confirming that they made it. There are some stories that stay with you, they manage to open up a new window in your mind, and give you a new view of the scenery. This story with its raw beauty did that for me, given lot to ponder and wonder for the days to come. ~ Four Spoons and a teaspoon on the side
For Love or Money
(Family Secrets #1) by Tara Taylor Quinn Adult Contemporary Romance Mass Market Paperback & ebook, 384 pages August 1st 2016 by Harlequin Heartwarming
She can't afford to lose this…or him
There's no way that struggling single mom Janie Young is going to lose Family Secrets. Not even to Dr. Burke Carter. The prize money and media exposure from the cooking-competition show will secure the future for her and her son, who has special needs. Sure, Burke is a talented chef with his own reasons to win, but he already has so much: wealth, a beautiful daughter, great looks…and definitely her attention. As their families become closer, Janie is beginning to care too much about him. But she can't afford to get involved. Not when everything is riding on beating him.
An honest and heartfelt story about two single parents trying to take care of their children to best of their abilities, willing to do anything for them, for them to be happy, for them to have a chance in life, for them to succeed. The struggles, the triumphs, the failures, the let downs and the tears are heartbreaking, but the hope for a better tomorrow is the silver lining, the smiles and sloppy kisses the best reward for the earnest efforts.
I imagine any parent can identify with Janie and Burke for wanting the best possible outcome for their child. And that is what I liked about the story, the realness, and rawness, the sincere and authentic way to see the near desperation of the parents, the feelings of sinking with the responsibility, yet finding the hope and guts to go for the better chances, even if it means there's a possibility to humiliate yourself in front of the nation. The character development, the lessons they learn about life, and the ability they have of roll with the punches were beautifully done and the center focus of the story. Yes, there was lots of cooking and a little romance, but the survival of the two parents, the child's healing from a devastating loss, the challenges of a special needs parent, all took the attention and focus on my mind while reading. This is a story that it is easy to sink into, and forget about everything around you. I felt for the characters, I sympathized with them. I responded to their pain and worry, I felt like I was in their shoes while reading the story. It is a beautifully done, touching tale of two months in life that will change the future of two families forever, an alluring study of love with its many faces. ~ Five Spoons
The author of more than 70 original novels, in twenty languages, Tara Taylor Quinn is a USA Today bestseller with over six million copies sold. A 2015 RITA finalist Tara appears frequently on bestseller lists, including #1 placement on Amazon lists, and multiple showings on the Publisher’s Weekly Bestseller list. She has appeared on national and local TV across the country, including CBS Sunday Morning.
Tara is a supporter of the National Domestic Violence Hotline. If you or someone you know might be a victim of domestic violence in the United States, please contact 1-800-799-7233. Website│Goodreads│Amazon│Facebook│Twitter│Pinterest│Instagram│Wattpad Check out the other releases and events part of this promotion HERE!
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Heart Stopping Tara Taylor Quinn Giveaways
FOR LOVE OR MONEY TOUR GIVEAWAY
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Ends August 31st To Enter: Submit your receipt online for your pre-order or purchase the soon-to-be-released Heartwarming compilation: A Heartwarming Holiday: 15 Connected Sweet Holiday Romances and/or of any of Tara Taylor Quinn’s six releases being promoted on her Heart Stopping Tour (Love By Association, His First Choice, The Promise He Made Her, Strangers in Paradise: Sheltered In His Arms, Sheltered In His Arms Audiobook, and For Love Or Money). Enter as many times as you purchase. One book purchase equals one entry (one receipt or invoice/order number per entry and must be entered at time of entry). 1st Place: 25,000 Harlequin My Rewards Points – equivalent of 5 free books, reader’s choice of any book published by Harlequin/MIRA/Carina Press. 2nd Place: 15,000 Harlequin My Rewards Points – equivalent of 3 free books, reader’s choice 3rd Place: 10,000 Harlequin My Rewards Points – equivalent of 2 free books, readers choice
Waking Eden
Eden #3 By: Rhenna Morgan Releasing July 26, 2016 Self-Published
The only hope for saving their race is to surrender their hearts.
With a long foretold and annoyingly vague prophecy warning of immense change for Eden, Ramsay Shantos is forced to hunt words and legends instead of rebels. For a man of action, it’s the worst kind of agony. Until he encounters a sexy librarian who bears the fated prophecy’s mark. A mark no human should possess. Tortured by her mixed heritage, Trinity Blair has enjoyed little human touch in her life, let alone intimacy. Even the most innocent contact fills her mind with a person’s deepest, darkest secrets--except for Ramsay. Her immunity to his thoughts sparks a fragile hope that she might finally experience the passion of her Dark Spiritu brethren...unless he’s the dangerous crossroads her father predicted. When knowledge of Eden goes viral in the human realm, Trinity is Ramsay’s only hope for quelling mass panic. Can he risk revealing the secrets of his race to the guileless ray of sunshine? Or is she the unknown source of Eden’s destruction? Warning: Contains one playboy warrior well-equipped with wicked words, a panty-melting grin, and well-honed moves in and out of the bedroom. Ramsay’s voice was quiet behind her, peaceful, and yet a little sad. “My dad brought me here when I was little. The only time I remember ever having him to myself. Eryx and I had fought about something, a worse blow up than normal. Dad thought me having a place to go and gather my thoughts might be in the best interest of the whole castle.” Trinity paced her breathing and kept her eyes locked on the majestic sun as it tipped into the teal water. She could see this sight tomorrow, or the day after, but the story bubbling up from Ramsay’s memory was huge. The intensity of it crackled and snapped around her. “Aside from Eryx, I’ve never brought anyone here, and even he has only been a time or two.” He pulled in a slow breath. “It was the only thing I had of my dad I didn’t have to share with anyone else.” His fingers tightened on her shoulders. “I wanted to share it with you.” Honest to God, a battering ram couldn’t have impacted her senses more than his simple, heart-felt gift. She was dumbfounded. Too stunned and humbled to formulate even the basest response. “Look at it, Trinity. That sunset is the same impression you made on me the first time I saw you. Powerful. Colorful. Bright and warm.” He slid his hands around her waist and wrapped her up tight, his mouth at her ear. “Every time I see or think of you, this is what fills me.” She tried to turn, her body and senses clamoring for eye contact. To anchor herself in his steel-gray eyes. He stopped her with a flex of his arms. “Not yet. I need you to watch it until it’s gone. To know that it’s the last sunset you’ll see without a mate. And know that the sunrise we watch tomorrow will be ours.” B&N | iTunes | Kobo Rhenna Morgan writes for the same reason she reads--to escape reality. A native Oklahoman with two beautiful girls and a fantastic husband, her resume reflects her passion for new experiences. Since graduating with a Bachelors in Radio, Television, and Film at Oklahoma State, she’s racked up positions ranging from on-air radio talent, skip tracer, and promotions director, to real estate agent, project manager, and business analyst. Like most women, she’s got obligations stacked tight from dusk to dawn. That’s where the romance comes in. Reading, or writing, romance has been her happy place since she cracked the spine on her first Christine Feehan book years ago. Nothing thrills her more than the fantasy of new, exciting worlds, and strong, intuitive men who’ll fight to keep the women they want. Whether it’s contemporary, paranormal, or fantasy you’re after, Rhenna’s stories pack romantic escape for the women who need it. Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Instagram | Bookbub |