In an idyllic small-town neighborhood, a near tragedy triggers a series of dark revelations.
From the outside, Sycamore Glen, North Carolina, might look like the perfect all-American neighborhood. But behind the white picket fences lies a web of secrets that reach from house to house. Up and down the streets, neighbors quietly bear the weight of their own pasts—until an accident at the community pool upsets the delicate equilibrium. And when tragic circumstances compel a woman to return to Sycamore Glen after years of self-imposed banishment, the tangle of the neighbors’ intertwined lives begins to unravel. During the course of a sweltering summer, long-buried secrets are revealed, and the neighbors learn that it’s impossible to really know those closest to us. But is it impossible to love and forgive them?
One small North Carolina town, a community pool, several storytellers, several points of views, and more pretense and secrets one could imagine.
With each chapter in the book, the point of view of the story changes, a new person stands up and has their chance at the mic. While most tell their part of the story in the third person, one child, Cailey, does it from the first person point of view. The multiple points of view most likely help to get a full rounded picture of events of that one summer at Sycamore Glen, but it made it hard to get into the story, get connected to the characters and to care about them. Yes, some of the characters, like a little Cailey, touched my heart. She and her little brother were such warriors, trying to survive despite the circumstances. It seems like every single person in the little town has a secret, something they would rather hold to themselves till their grave. The level of dishonesty, betrayal, and deceit was so deep, it might make you question who you really can trust, is anyone telling the truth, being honest, not hiding something in your own life. At the end, the author manages to wrap everything up, to give the conclusion to the individual stories, to give hope for tomorrow for most of them. It wasn't an easy read by any standards, yet it does make you stop and think about your own life, and the possible secrets it holds, the people around you and their trustworthiness. The story surprised me by not being anything like I expected from the blurb, yet it gave food for the thought and managed to hold my interest all the way to the end. An interesting look at the small town living in Sycamore Glen, North Carolina, and the summer when most of the secrets came to light. ~ Three Spoons
Marybeth Mayhew Whalen is the author of The Things We Wish Were True and five previous novels. She speaks to women's groups around the US. She is the co-founder of the popular women's fiction site, She Reads www.shereads.org.
Marybeth and her husband Curt have been married for 24 years and are the parents of six children, ranging from young adult to elementary age. The family lives in North Carolina. Marybeth spends most of her time in the grocery store but occasionally escapes long enough to scribble some words. She is always at work on her next novel. You can find her at www.marybethwhalen.com. She Reads | Facebook | Twitter
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The Sweetheart Deal By: Allison Morse Released June 5, 2016 The Wild Rose Press Some people in her small rural community think Ellen Hamilton, the business savvy daughter of the town’s largest employer, is too big for her britches. After all it’s the 1950s and women should have no place in running corporations. But when the company is threatened with takeover by John Adair, the man who broke her heart and "betrayed" her family business years ago, she’s determined to stop at nothing to win. Yet, when the cool Ellen turns molten in John’s arms, will she discover the truth about the past in time to enter into The Sweetheart Deal.
Something inside her gave way and she flung her arms around his neck and gave him a hot, lingering kiss. He grabbed hold of her and pulled her onto his lap. The kiss grew deeper. Her mind was lost in the sensation of him, his taste, his feel and the tightness in her own body begged for more.
The appalling doorbell sounded and she leapt to her feet. “Oh, it’s Harold.” She paced. What an idiot! What possessed her? She looked at John and groaned inside. It was a compulsion, that what he was, or maybe hypnotism. Whatever it was, thank goodness for clichés, because she’d just been saved by the bell. John stood, and as if he were a magnet she stopped pacing and halted right in front of him. He caressed her arms. “Ignore him.” She threw off his hands. “No, no, no. No! He’s good, you’re bad. I’m ignoring you. Ignoring this.” “Hey, I didn’t make that kiss happen. You did, and it was great.” His baritone voice was both soothing and sexy. “Fine, I made it happened, and now I’m making it not happen.” “Ellen.” “I have a date.” She realized that she was reminding herself of that fact as much as him. He stepped in closer. “Sure. Go ahead.” “You’re smirking.” Still, she didn’t move. “You are such an egotist.” She wanted to move. She planned to move. She didn’t move. “I’m going out with Harold.” The doorbell rang again. John grinned. “So I see.”
Allison Morse grew up in a family of actors in Los Angeles; before the age of five, she started acting classes, which she adored. She continued in the family business until her early twenties when her curious spirit led her to consider other interests.
After receiving a B.A. from U.C. Berkeley, she went on to earn a M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy, and a J.D. from U.C. Hastings College of the Law. Although she loved learning from each of her varied careers she always knew that storytelling was as essential to her as breathing. So as she pursued her professional life, she kept to a strict writing schedule, and joined the Romance Writers of America and Sisters in Crime. She lives with her wonderful husband in a house in the hills that’s filled with books. Allison can be contacted at http://www.allisonmorseauthor.com Author Links: Website | Twitter | Facebook | GoodReads
At Fairfield Orchard
Fairfield Orchard #1 By: Emma Cane Releasing August 30, 2016 Avon
The first in Emma Cane’s sparkling new series, set in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains.
Emma Cane welcomes you to Fairfield Orchard, where new love blooms and romance is always in season. For Amy Fairfield, the family orchard is more than a business. With its blossom-scented air and rows of trees framed by the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains, it’s her heritage and her future. But right now, it’s also a headache. Putting a painful breakup behind her, Amy has come home to help revitalize Fairfield Orchard. She doesn’t have time for the handsome-distracting-professor who wants to dig into her family’s history for his research. Jonathan Gebhart knows he needs the Fairfields’ cooperation to make his new book a success. As for Amy-nothing in his years of academia could have prepared him for their sudden and intense attraction. He doesn’t want to complicate her life further, especially since she seems uneasy about him poking around in the past and he knows he’s not the sort of man built for forever. But some sparks can’t help but grow, and Jonathan and Amy may just learn that unexpected love can be the sweetest of all.
A start of a new series, stories about family, love, and history, and how those historically known events are twined into the family history on the beautiful setting of Blue Ridge Mountains.
That cover enticed me, it itself tells a story that echoes of the one inside the covers. The family dynamics are fascinating, both those in the immediate family by blood and those whom the bind is formed by years of living and working together. Everyone has their place in the family, they respect each other's talents and encourage each other to use them. Jonathan is a geek-hero, a history geek who also loves numbers. It is easy to like him and love him, he is kind, considerate, smart, a little awkward at times, yet always thinking of your best. The connection between him and Amy is sparkling. They light up the pages as they get to know each other, work together to find more about the history of the family, and try not to fall for each other. The first quarter of the book is little heavy to read, as the scene is set, but as the attraction between Jonathan and Amy develops, they seem to energize the whole tale, and before you know it, you have inhaled the rest of it. A great start for the new series, that is promising to be both amusing with the humor the author drizzled through the story and alluring with the enticing, charismatic characters the family, and the town, are filled with. ~ Four Spoons
Amy heard the crunch of gravel beneath Jonathan Gebhart’s feet, and she ducked her head until she could watch him walk away. He’d been an interesting man, all sober and serious, and seemed a little taken aback when she’d teased him. She could still see his short, wavy black hair that looked difficult to tame. It was hard to forget his eyes, green as spring in the orchard—and that moment when he’d really looked at her as a woman. That had been surprising and unsettling. He didn’t have laughing eyes—she imagined he didn’t laugh much at all, which was a shame, when he looked so gorgeous.
What’s Left of Me By: Kimberly Lewis Releasing October 4, 2016 Self-Published Letting go of the past is never easy… Jenna Olsen has spent the last four years trying to move on from the heartache that tore her world apart, but when Cole Sullivan suddenly shows up back in town all of those feelings come flooding back… And even some new ones she didn’t know were possible. Leaving town all those years ago was necessary, but now that Cole finally has a handle on his life he decides to return home to his family, friends, and the woman he just can’t forget. Coming back home though comes with its costs, and Cole ultimately has to decide… Will he be able to fight his inner demons to keep Jenna in his life, or will the chance of hurting her again be too much to risk? Bestselling author Kimberly Lewis writes sweet, sexy contemporary romances filled with heart and humor. Born and raised on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, this country girl caught the creative bug at an early age, doing everything from drawing to writing short stories. After dabbling in many genres, Kimberly rediscovered her love of romance stories and soon after published her first novel. Kimberly still lives on the good old Eastern Shore of Maryland with her wonderful husband, two beautiful children, and spirited Doberman Pinschers. Along with writing, Kimberly enjoys reading, horseback riding, and spending time with her amazing family. Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads
For Better or Worse
The Wedding Belles #2 By: Lauren Layne Releasing August 30, 2016 Pocket Books
Will a budding wedding planner and her bad boy neighbor stop banging heads and start hearing wedding bells in the sexy second novel in USA TODAY bestselling author Lauren Layne’s irresistible new series that marries Sex and the City with The Wedding Planner?
When small-town girl Heather Fowler finally gets promoted from assistant to actual wedding planner, she’s determined to make it as one of Manhattan’s elite Wedding Belles. Unfortunately, her first client demands an opulent black-tie affair at the Plaza…in five months’ time. Heather’s days quickly become a flurry of cake tastings, dress-fittings, RSVP cards, and bridal tantrums. But what she’s really losing sleep over is the live music blaring from her playboy neighbor’s apartment all night. Five years ago, Josh Tanner was an up-and-comer on Wall Street, complete with the penthouse and the migraines. But a grim cancer diagnosis made him realize there is more to life than the corner office. If only he could convince his pretty, workaholic neighbor to let loose, too. As Heather lets down her guard, Josh is surprised when he starts falling for the sweet, vulnerable woman hiding beneath those power suits. Soon, it’s Heather’s turn to convince Josh to take the biggest risk of all: love.
Champagne, high heels, wedding plans, Manhattan address, and Sunday brunches are all part of the lifestyle Heather had dreamt about most of her life. Living the 'champagne culture' to the fullest - "live like you want to be living, not like you should be living" - she finally gains the access to the address as well, only to find out it comes with an annoying neighbor, obsessed with banana bread.
The story is well written, it flows like the champagne the characters enjoy, filled with pop culture references, New York living, and life goal achievements, there's nothing that can stop the Belles from gaining what the want. I adored Josh's mom, she was so down to earth, caring lady, with tons of wit and smarts. Josh was not easy to like. Several times in the story he is referred to an ass, acting like he is eighteen, an overgrown fratboy etc. And each time I agreed, he is arrogant, immature, presumptuous, rude... Yes, he has gone through hell in his life, I understand him there, but that doesn't excuse his behavior now. If for once he would have apologized when walking all over people, I might have grown a little warmer to him, but he was above that kind of regrets. Josh and Heather built their relationship on banter, ribbing, and sexual attraction. One open conversation between them, where they are fully honest and sincere with each other, could have made a better case for them as a couple, and could have built some trust in-between them. Even though just between neighbors, the repartee was fun. When it comes to romance stories, my big thing is no flirts, other people, after the hero and heroine first meet/feel the attraction towards each other, not even to make the other jealous. And both Heather and Josh fail here. But, like everything else I have said, it is just me. The old truth 'it's me, not you' stands well with this tale. As I read the story, it was pouring off the pages, the writing is engaging, the storyline alluring, the references to Sex in The City, Friends, Gilmore Girls, The Wedding Planner, all made it familiar for those who has watched the shows. The glamor, charisma of that New York lifestyle is there, and it is tempting, so I can see this story and series being loved and admired by many, even if it wasn't for my taste buds. The seductiveness, fascination, and charm of the glamorous life of rich and successful in New York is the draw and appeal that many find hard to resist. ~ Three Spoons
“So this is where the noise happens, huh?” she asked.
Josh’s eyes narrowed as his friend’s hand touched Heather’s back briefly. “Absolutely,” Trevor said. “We’re sorry it keeps you up though.” “Oh, it’s okay,” she said, waving her hand. “I mean . . . it’s not. But tonight I couldn’t sleep anyway, so you get a free pass. What do you all play?” “Donny’s bass, Felix is on drums. Josh is lead guitar, and I, as the most important member, have the pipes.” “Oh! I thought Josh was the singer,” Heather said with a quick glance over her shoulder at him. Their eyes locked, and Josh felt a flicker of . . . something. “Ah, is that what he’s telling the women these days,” Trevor joked. “No, I just . . . I hear him, singing sometimes,” Heather muttered. “Our boy can carry a tune well enough, but wait until you hear me, love,” Trevor said. Josh turned away in mild disgust, pulling a beer out of the fridge as Trevor and the other guys coaxed Heather into the practice room, thrilled to have any sort of audience, even a reluctant one. “Yo, Tanner,” Felix called. “What,” he called, popping the lid off the bottle and tilting the beer back to his lips as he tried to shake off whatever was bringing down his mood tonight. “Let’s show Heather here that we’re more than a bit of noise coming through her bedroom wall.” Josh turned around to see Donny dragging one of his kitchen chairs across the room, disappearing into the practice room. “All right, love, you just sit down and get comfortable,” Trevor said. “Tanner! Come on, man.” Josh heard the low strum of Donny’s guitar, heard Felix do a little warm-up rhythm, and knew there was no way of getting out of it. If he refused to play a song now, he’d look like an ass. Still, his feet didn’t move, and he took another sip of beer. Feeling eyes on him, he glanced up to see Heather in the doorway, leaning one shoulder against the doorjamb as she studied him. “Okay, 4A?” she asked. Her tone was lighthearted, almost slightly reluctant, as though she didn’t want to care about why he was out here alone, feeling oddly itchy with his life. He appreciated it. He’d spent enough time in the past few years dealing with people who walked on eggshells around him, cooing sweetness. Some of it genuine, some of it not so much. Heather’s no-nonsense question was refreshing—and exactly what he needed. He was happy and healthy and living the dream, damn it. Even if he was no longer sure it was his dream. “You going soft on me?” he asked, taking one last sip of his beer before setting it aside and strolling toward her. Heather’s eyes narrowed. “Hardly. I just wanted you to get your shit together so I can see your cute lead singer work his magic.” He deliberately stepped into the doorway so she couldn’t move in either direction without brushing against him, grinning at her discomfort. “You’re in a better mood tonight,” he said, his eyes skimming over her crazy curls and relaxed expression. “Why?” “Believe it or not, I’m not a shrew.” “Huh.” Heather shoved his shoulder with a little scowl. “I’m not!” “Does that mean you’re going to start making banana bread like Mrs. Calvin?” “Yes, definitely. And coffee cake and sugar cookies and whatever other goodies you might like. All while wearing a frilly, feminine apron.” “Dare I hope there’s nothing under the apron?” he asked, leaning in slightly. “Right again!” she said, in mock delight. “I just love to bake naked.” Josh’s pulse leapt, but Trevor interrupted before the sudden X-rated picture in his mind could turn into a full-fledged fantasy. “Dude, we doing this or what?” Josh looked at Heather. “One song,” she said, holding up a finger. “I may as well see what the music sounds like on this side of the wall.”
Lauren Layne is the USA Today bestselling author of more than a dozen romantic comedies. She lives in New York City with her husband (who was her high school sweetheart--cute, right?!) and plus-sized Pomeranian.
In 2011, she ditched her corporate career in Seattle to pursue a full-time writing career in Manhattan, and never looked back. In her ideal world, every stiletto-wearing, Kate Spade wielding woman would carry a Kindle stocked with Lauren Layne books. For a list of all her works, please be sure to check out her official website! Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Instagram
Embrace Me
Chasing Fire #3.5 By: Ann Marie Walker & Amy K. Rogers Releasing September 20, 2016 Intermix
Hudson Chase and Alessandra Sinclair's heartracing romance continues in this hot, new novella in the Chasing Fire series.
Return to the dangerous and seductive romance that got pulses racing in the Chasing Fire trilogy... It took ten years for Hudson Chase and Alessandra Sinclair to find their happily ever after, and they’re not about to let anything get in their way... Nothing could stop the passion between Allie and Hudson—not time or distance. Not even tragedy, betrayal, and blackmail. But now they’re facing a new challenge: wedding planning. And while Allie’s social status demands she put on the event of the century, her well-intentioned family and friends have her doubting her walk down the aisle... Hudson knows tensions are pushing Allie to the brink, but he’s not letting her throw everything away over some flowers and cake. He has plans for his new bride, and unlike their last adventure, he's determined that this time there will be no unwelcome surprises. But for all his determination and control, there’s one element Hudson Chase has never been able to predict—and she has some adventurous ideas of her own...
Every nerve in Allie's body sprang to life, responding to Hudson as though he was right in front of her, not miles away. Even from that distance she could feel the attraction that pulsed between them, a magnetic pull drawing her to him. This was the power he had over her, one she was helpless to resist even if she’d wanted to. A hum of anticipation built inside her as the plane swooped low over the tranquil water, and by the time they landed she was more than ready for whatever Hudson had in store for her.
Though thousands of miles apart, Ann Marie Walker and Amy K. Rogers are in constant contact, plotting story lines and chatting about their love of alpha males, lemon drop martinis and British supermodel, David Gandy. You can find them on twitter as @AnnMarie_Walker and @Amy_KRogers.
My Fair Princess The Improper Princesses #1 By: Vanessa Kelly Releasing August 30, 2016. Zebra
First, Vanessa Kelly brought readers The Renegade Royals. Now, in a delightfully witty new series, she introduces The Improper Princesses—three young women descended from royalty, each bound for her own thrilling adventure . . .
Despite being the illegitimate daughter of a prince, Gillian Dryden is happily ignorant of all social graces. After growing up wild in Italy, Gillian has been ordered home to England to find a suitable husband. And Charles Valentine Penley, the excessively proper, distractingly handsome Duke of Leverton, has agreed to help transform her from a willful tomboy to a blushing debutante. Powerful and sophisticated, Charles can make or break reputations with a well-placed word. But his new protégée, with her habit of hunting bandits and punching earls, is a walking scandal. The ton is aghast . . . but Charles is thoroughly intrigued. Tasked with taking the hoyden in hand, he longs to take her in his arms instead. Can such an outrageous attraction possibly lead to a fairytale ending?
The bandit scum had killed Step-papa, his two bodyguards, and the young groom accompanying him on that fateful trip through the Gorges of Tiberio. It was fitting that Gillian would deliver justice in almost the same spot where those innocents had breathed out their last moments of existence.
Her brother cursed under his breath. “Gillian, this should not be your life.” “Do I look like a proper young lady to you?” He cast a sardonic glance at her attire—sheepskin coat, buckskin breeches, and riding boots. “You could be. You’re an attractive, respectable-looking girl when you’re not disguised as a bloodthirsty ruffian.” “I thought you, of all people, would understand,” she said, exasperated. “I do, but if you continue along this course, it will take its toll. Killing always does.” She managed not to flinch. “I don’t have a choice.” “There is always a choice, Gillian.” She flicked her gaze back to Falcone, who was sitting on a rock as he smoked a pipe. He was also splendidly out in the open, but she had to get closer. “There’s no point in discussing this. I’m doing it,” she said. “No, I will—” “It was my fault,” she hissed. “That’s why I have to do it. No one else.” He frowned. “I don’t understand.” She had to swallow before she could answer. “It’s my fault that my stepfather was murdered. I sent him straight into Falcone’s line of fire.” “So . . . it’s guilt that motivates you. Killing Falcone will likely be nothing more than an empty victory, if such is the case.” Griffin squeezed her arm. “As long as you continue to blame yourself, you will never find peace.” She hoped to God he was wrong. He had to be wrong. “You are the most irritating man I have ever met.” “So my wife informs me on a regular basis.” Below them, Falcone knocked the tobacco out of his pipe and then hauled his formidable bulk to his feet. Gillian mentally cursed as he began to stroll over to join his men under the trees. She turned and signaled to Stefano and his grandson. The old man pulled his pistol from the brace on his saddle, ready to cover her back. “Griffin, help me or not, but I’m doing this now.” Before he could answer, she slung her rifle across her back and slithered away from the edge. As quickly as she dared, she crawled down the narrow, rutted path that ran along the rim of the gorge. If she stood, it was unlikely the men below would notice her, but she was taking no chances. Falcone had evaded her too many times over the years. Her brother followed her. She could practically feel him seething with frustration, but he made not a sound. She had to give him credit—he was awfully good. A few feet short of her goal, Gillian held up a hand to halt her brother’s advance. She stole a quick glance over her shoulder. Just behind them Stefano crouched, his tanned, leathery features cast into shade by his broad-brimmed hat. Griffin’s expression registered shock at the sight of the old man so close, pistols at the ready. Stefano might be getting on in years, but he was still vital and strong. He could move like a ghost, silent and lethal, at her command. After crooking a finger to signal Griffin to follow, Gillian wriggled up to the edge of the cliff. She cautiously peered over the rocks and saw the bandits under a stand of beech trees, their attention on their flasks of wine as they waited for the rabbits to cook over the open flame. Unfortunately, Falcone was half obscured by one of his men and was partly in shade. She would have to stand up if she wanted a clear shot. She came up in a crouch and pulled the rifle from her back. She’d already checked it three times, but did so once more. The Baker was a fine weapon. It had belonged to a Hussar, and had a light, short carbine, which made it easier to handle. But it was less accurate than rifles used by sharpshooters. Although she could reload quickly if she missed her shot, she’d make an inviting target while she did. So get it right the first time. Griffin came up beside her. He gave her a terse nod as he brought his rifle to bear on the men below. But he then sucked in a harsh breath when Gillian rose swiftly to her feet, taking aim at Falcone. As bad luck would have it, an eagle soared right overhead, screeching out a cry. The men below automatically glanced up, directly at her and Griffin. Gillian fired. The shot echoed through the gorge in a deafening report. Another boom followed as Griffin fired a second later. Falcone stumbled against a low rock, roaring as he clutched his shoulder. Another bandit went down like a sack of grain tossed from a cart. The other bandits scrambled for their weapons. “Get down, you daft woman,” Griffin barked, reaching to pull her away from the edge. Gillian evaded his grasp, sliding on the rocky scree and almost losing her footing. Still, she managed to recover and reload. Griffin did the same as he let loose a string of hair-raising curses. She yanked up her rifle, took aim, and fired again. A moment later, a bullet slammed into her shoulder, throwing her to the ground. The back of her head connected with rock, and pain exploded through her skull. Gillian lay there stunned, staring up at a sky that shimmered with a milky haze. Her ears rang with the sound of a thousand church bells. Move, you idiot. She couldn’t—not even one blessed finger.
Vanessa Kelly is an award-winning author who was named by Booklist, the review journal of the American Library Association, as one of the “New Stars of Historical Romance.” Her Regency-set historical romances have been nominated for awards in a number of contests, and her second book, Sex and The Single Earl, won the prestigious Maggie Medallion for Best Historical Romance. Her current series, The Renegade Royals is a national bestseller. Vanessa also writes USA Today bestselling contemporary romance with her husband, under the pen name of VK Sykes.
Author Links: Website | Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads
GUARDING THE WITNESS
When Cassie McBride discovers a dead body in a rental cabin, she quickly becomes the killer's next target. Now the upbeat, chatty property manager is under the personal protection of police chief Nate Walsh—the living embodiment of the strong, silent type. Nate's tragic past has taught him that a cop falling for a pretty witness can lead to disaster. Dogged at every turn by the murderer, Nate must stay focused and not let his growing feelings for Cassie interfere with his duty. If there's any hope for Cassie—or a future for them—it's going to take all Nate's skill to not only keep her safe…but to keep her alive.
The story pulled me easily into the drama and danger, and the once spiked interest didn't whither away through the tale. The non-stop action, hair-raising moments, fear, and attacks keep the story moving at a high speed, Nate and Cassie providing many smiles as they fumble with their attraction to each other, and try to stay alive.
Cassie with her motor-mouth was hilarious, she just made me smile with her attitude towards life, and her honest disposition. Nate was smitten, he had to make an effort in a middle of a murder investigation to keep his eyes and thoughts off Cassie, yes, those two were adorably delightful with each other. The murder mystery spilled into an involved investigation of multiple dangerous crimes. And there were times I wanted to scream advice and direction to the characters when their actions baffled me, just proving the point that I was right there, with the story, involved and entangled in the mystery. Cassie and Nate were more than just adorably clumsy with their affections towards each other. During the dangerous times, as they were leaning on each other for safety, support, and encouragement, they learned to open their minds, share their memories and dreams, and took the leap of faith trusting in each other with their vulnerabilities. Cassie inspired Nate to trust in God and His guidance, Nate taught Cassie how to speak her truth to her family. I really enjoyed those two together, so perfect for each other in every possible way. Mix fast, intense, morbid action with delightfully engaging romance, and you get a story that is hard to put down, a tale that you want to inhale to know what is going to happen, yet savor so you get to enjoy it as long as possible, fascinating stuff! ~ Four Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
Ranger bred, Ranger bound…
Being a Texas Ranger is Zach Travis’s destiny. But war-weary Zach didn’t come home to Texas to take on his father’s legacy, only to heal his emotional scars…until his family’s compound is invaded by an enemy as brazen as she is beautiful. Not only does Hana Nakatomi seem willing to risk everything for the sake of her own birthright, she could be tied to the organized crime syndicate responsible for the murder of a Ranger. Yet, from the first moment Zach has the alluring thief in his grasp, he can’t deny the pulsing attraction between them…. It’s Zach’s duty to bring Hana in for questioning. But he has his own ideas about how to capitalize on her street smarts and martial arts skills. Even as sparks fly during their pursuit of a common enemy, Zach is never sure if Hana is his ally—or his worst nightmare. One thing’s for certain: she’s the first woman to breach the walls of his battered heart….
Interesting, history filled suspense story, where the rangers fight against Asian gangs and drug trafficking, Japanese traditions and customs put the heroine on a lawbreaking hunt for a family heirloom, people are killed for practice, and no one seems to be safe in the battle between power and control over tradition and code of conduct.
The suspense gives a fresh eye to the old samurai culture, their habits, and the folklores around them, as well to the segregation and discrimination of the Japanese during the WWII in the States. There's a lot of referrals to those times, and the plot is heavily built on the story of the sword Hana is trying to get a hold of. The suspense has many aspects to it, the drugs, the power struggle, the sword, the kidnapping, fight for Hana's son, the murders, and so on. There's almost too much happening, and nothing getting the full exposure in the story. It also has several different points of view, that at times seemed to spread the story too thin. The suspense gets some intense action towards the end, mesmerizing yet cruel, giving the suspense side of the story a great crescendo. When it comes to the romance and building a relationship, I can't even say it was in the background, since few kisses, lust filled minds and then having sex isn't romance or a relationship. Yet that was assumed to be the basis of HEA. Since even their conversations were mostly part of the criminal interrogation, I kept going back and forth trying to see if I missed something, but it didn't seem so. So for me, the development of the relationship, or the characters, wasn't really there. If you are into a history based suspense, you enjoy the old traditions, legends, and folklores about them, you most likely will enjoy the thrilling suspense developing in the tale, and get a kick out of the adventure Hana is on while hunting for the sword. The age-old tales and family histories are respected, and true warriors are willing to die to protect their loved ones. ~ Three Spoons
The arrival of a single black rose signals danger to come for Kylie Brewer.
Recovering from a brutal attack that claimed three years of her memory and her chance at a promising career, Kylie just wants to pick up the remaining fragments of her life. She returns to her hometown of Conard City to live with her sister but soon learns that putting the past in its place won't be easy. Marine sergeant Evan Cooper—a trusted family friend who agrees to help Kylie—can't ignore his protective instincts. Or the steadily growing desire he feels for a woman who has overcome so much. He vows to help keep Kylie's demons at bay…but someone else has plans to finish what they started. The Suspense in this story is creepy evil that lurks in the corners and crawls closer and closer to you. He enjoys the torture, the fear, the horror he creates, and you know from the start his identity, yet you are the only one who knows it with no way to warn the characters about him. Yikes, yes, I was spooked from the prologue of the story, and the intense, eerie, ghoulish evil just gets stronger as the story continues. In all the gruesomeness, the suspense was well built and done. Kylie and Coop both were really charismatic, likable, easy to relate to, and I loved hanging out with them. The memory loss Kylie has is intriguing and scary, her angst and dread because of it was real. I absolutely loved how Coop was able to center her, keep her safe, comfort her, and relate to her nightmares. They have something special, and the author managed to make it palpable, tenderly passionate, in a sweet way fierce. I loved them hanging out, getting to know each other, so honest and raw with each other, making a team from the first moment they meet. The protectiveness Coop has for Kylie is admirable, and him still letting her do her thing despite it, adorable. They let each other be, exists, and grow in the space they both are, giving the other the space they need, but staying close enough to protect the other if needed. Yes, I was completely enamored with those two, and the relationship they were building. Terrifying suspense, a memory loss that has everyone on the edge, and romance that completely enchanted, makings of a story that kept me up late just to see what happens ~ Four Spoons with a teaspoon on the side
Michelle Mitchell isn’t the kind of girl you’d expect the most popular guy on campus to like.
She has blue hair and favors ripped jeans to mini-skirts and Doc Martens to heels. Of course, Sebastian Winters isn’t the type of guy you’d expect her to go for, either. Her taste tends to run more “bass player” than “baseball player.” But things are about to get very unexpected...when an intelligent, artistic, outspoken alt girl meets a sweet, sexy, southern charmer, watch the sparks fly!
The story is an ode to all the book girls out there, girls of all the ages who love to read, love the stories, the books, the libraries, the bookstores, #readersonig and most of all, have several book-boyfriends, the admired and the desired perfection of a fictional character.
This story made me smile and remember those awkward days of falling in lust, the attraction to the 'Sebastian' of the campus, the swooning, the daydreaming, and the moment when you realize those feelings are deeper and might be responded by the recipient. The allure, the enthrallment mixed with the self-doubt and insecurity, desperately trying to hold on to the self-image one has, while not so sure if it is accepted and appreciated by the rest of the world. Delightfully delicate, fiery hot, yet sweetly tender story of those anxious years of growing to be who we are meant to be, and learning to accept ourselves, and others, as they are, while completely, utterly, falling in love with the person, who is a total opposite of you, and making it work, learning to compromise, accept, appreciate, and admire the differences. Michelle and Sebastian will make you swoon, smile, and sigh, either identify with them or remember the 'back-when', in any case, it is guaranteed entertainment ~ Four Spoons
Run to You
Risking It All #1 By: Rachel Lacey Releasing August 30, 2016 Forever
ONE LITTLE LIE. A WHOLE LOTTA TROUBLE.
Moments after meeting the most gorgeous guy ever, Gabby Winters promptly gets stung by a zillion yellow jackets and falls-not gracefully-into a stream. Yup, Ethan Hunter is trouble with a capital "hot," and Gabby definitely needs to keep her distance. Except in the small town of Haven, there's nowhere to hide from Ethan's sexy, infectious grin . . . and all the residents are conspiring against her. At the center of the town's matchmaking is Ethan's grandmother, who's convinced their relationship is a done deal. Rather than break her heart, Gabby and Ethan find themselves cornered into pretending to be falling in love. The problem: there's serious sizzling attraction between them. And if this charade continues, they won't fool just the entire town - they might fool themselves too . . .
When a story is filled with joyful, cheerful, life-loving moments, yet the characters has depth, intensity, and growth as they face the realities of life, and it all just flows seamlessly from the pages - how can you not love every moment of it?!
Ethan and Gabby are both charismatic, considerate, kind-hearted people, so easy to like and fall in love with. The chemistry between them is off the charts, the attraction is sizzling between them. But there's more to them than just pretend relationship and intense physical attraction. And everyone else can see it, sense it, and witness it every time Ethan and Gabby are in the same room, yet they live in denial. And Ethan's Granny. What a lady. The way she cared for everyone, looked after them, and shared her wisdom, her bucket list, her adventures, she nearly stole the show completely. (On a personal note, one of Granny's bucket list items is to visit Biltmore Estate in Asheville - I just want to thank the author for taking me back to my old stomping grounds for a moment, it made me smile). But there's more to the story than just hot North Carolina summer days, there are serious matters of domestic abuse, the survival of it, and the survival guilt. Just like Granny's destiny, it breaks your heart a bit. The author has dealt with the issue with respect towards the victims and survivors. I loved the upbeat tone of the tale, the gleeful moments of fulfilling dreams, the thrill of facing and conquering your fears, the bliss of falling in love, it all made me smile, even laugh out loud couple times. Yet the story touched my heart with the life-battered souls, the sorrow from losing a loved one, and the growing pains from the raw deals of life. A dazzling and addictive tale, that made me want to update my bucket list and inspired to live every moment to the fullest. ~ Five Spoons
“I’m glad you brought me out here.” Gabby stepped over a tree root, lifting her skirt with her free hand so that she didn’t trip.
Ethan squeezed her left hand. “Me, too. The rock face is right up this way.” They came around a corner and the path opened up to a big rock looming at least thirty feet into the air. There were some creases and cracks in it, but how anyone could scale it with only their bare hands—or why they would want to—was completely beyond her. “You can seriously climb that?” “I can climb it. Ryan can kick its ass, though.” “Okay then. Show me.” With a cocky grin, he reached up and hooked his hand into a crack in the rock. He pulled himself up, his biceps flexing most impressively as he climbed. Holy shit, that was sexy. Soon she was left with nothing but a view of his very fine ass. And by the time he’d reached the top, she was so turned on, she could hardly stand it. “So?” he called from the top. “You going to join me or what?” “Not a chance. But I will enjoy watching you climb back down.” “Gotta give the lady what she wants.” His fine ass reappeared over the edge as he started back down. He took his time on the descent, and if she wasn’t mistaken, he might have reached for a few hand and footholds that made him flex his muscles a little more than was strictly necessary. “You’re a show-off,” she said when his feet were back on solid ground. He was a bit out of breath, his bronzed skin glistening with sweat, trademark smile still in place. “No clue what you’re talking about.” “No? You really needed to reach all the way to that notch?” She gestured above them. “Instead of the one closer to your shoulder that maybe wouldn’t have shown off your lovely biceps quite as well?” He flexed for her. “What, these old things? And for the record, I totally needed the leverage.” “Mm-hmm.” For some reason, she put her hand on his biceps, and oh crap, that was a mistake. His skin was hot beneath her fingers, and his blue eyes blazed into hers. “Killing me, Gabby,” he murmured. “Killing me.” His words sent a bolt of red-hot desire right through her, and she must have made a sound because Ethan sucked in a breath, his gaze locked on her lips. His hands settled on her hips, burning into her skin through the thin fabric of her skirt.
Rachel Lacey is a contemporary romance author and semi-reformed travel junkie. She's been climbed by a monkey on a mountain in Japan, gone scuba diving on the Great Barrier Reef, and camped out overnight in New York City for a chance to be an extra in a movie.
These days, the majority of her adventures take place on the pages of the books she writes. She lives in warm and sunny North Carolina with her husband, son, and a variety of rescue pets. Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads
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