Author: Kelly

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Guest blogger & giveaway with Sharon Clare

This Game’s a Trap

By Sharon Clare

I want to thank Books-n-Kisses for welcoming me as a guest today to talk about my new release Rhapsody published by Crimson Romance.

Rhapsody is a paranormal romance that revolves around a board game. Remember those? But this isn’t the kind of board game you’d find on the shelves of Walmart.

In Rhapsody, when their tropical resort disappears, Jonathan and Isabelle must play a game of seduction with magical twists and turns to win their freedom from the Elvin world where they are trapped.

I’d love to share an excerpt from a scene in Isabelle’s point of view where she and Jonathan first discover their resort has disappeared:

Isabelle was vaguely aware of the stricken expression on Jonathan’s face as her knees buckled. Only with legs clenched tight did she keep herself from tottering over.

Impossible.

The sun was a blazing half disc hovering over the horizon, the trees, an ink smudge rimming the beach. Within minutes, the shore would be chilling, isolating, disorienting, all except for this one fire-lit area.

Jonathan’s gaze rose from the bizarre note she’d found. “It’s a joke, it has to be. We have to play a game called Rhapsody to get back to the resort? That’s insane.” He peered once again at the forest where ten minutes ago the resort had stretched over a few kilometers. Not a sound came from that site now, not even wind through the trees. Besides the flicker of fire, the night was still as a corpse.

“Did you find any sign of life out there?” She forced the words out evenly to tamp her panic and keep her voice from cracking.

“No, nothing. Did you know the resort has an invisible security fence? We won’t get past it if we go through the forest.”

“That’s odd. No, I didn’t hear anything about invisible security. Whoever wrote this note is playing games with us. Do you think this is a hoax put on by the resort?” Though she didn’t wish to admit it out loud, something about this scenario seemed … unearthly. A few feet from the fire lay a carpet with over-sized pillows placed for comfort and as the note suggested — pleasurable game play. She couldn’t kid herself into believing that display had been on the beach five minutes ago. The cozy fireside retreat seemed to have appeared from under the snap of a magician’s cloak.

“I doubt it. This fire came out of nowhere. The note says we can’t escape the beach. ‘Play the game of Rhapsody to win your return to Serenity Resort.’ I don’t know who the lunatic is behind this, but we’re cut off from the hotel.” Jonathan checked his watch. As if the time mattered. With the sun sinking, it was lights out any minute.

“I don’t have time for this,” he said.

Like she did? “Late for your date with the redhead?”

He shot her a wry look. “Not tonight.”

“Triplets?”

“I’ve got them lined up for Saturday.”

His dry sense of humor had appealed to her from their first conversation. She couldn’t deny she’d behaved like his Monday night date until the redhead showed up. He’d been too easy to be with, like an old friend — they’d fit like parts clicking in perfect sequence. She could blame his good looks, the wine, the atmosphere, the conversation, but the truth was she’d gone to his room Monday night because she was too weak to keep to her relationship recovery program. But that was Monday. Today was a new day. “It’s some kind of magic trick. Mirrors?”

His gaze fell on the pillow arrangement. “I don’t think so. I see the game.”

 

Thanks again, Book-n-Kisses! For more information on Rhapsody, please visit: sharonclare.com

A little more about Sharon: 

Sharon Clare lives in Ontario with her husband and three wonderful grown-up kids who come and go from the nest. She fell in love with writing at the University of Toronto where she graduated with a science degree in psychology and professional writing. She writes paranormal romance and has published short stories, art reviews, newsletter and magazine articles. Her favourite place to write is outside under the maple trees beside the lily pond.

Rhapsody


is available for your Kindle here: Amazon

Isabelle plans to escape the real world when she takes a tropical vacation to work on her relationship recovery program. But escape becomes too real when she realizes Paradise Resort has disappeared. She is trapped in an immortal world where she must win her freedom by seducing her opponent, a man she labeled off limits, in a board game of seduction. Her resistance is solid, safe, and steadfast until her traitorous body decides this is a game she wants to play.

Jonathan has made seducing women an art form. His needs are simple: break down Isabelle’s resistance, seduce the panties off her, and get back to the real world fast where an emergency needs his attention. He plays to win, but when Isabelle takes a penalty and they must play out her secret fantasy, Jonathan struggles to follow the objective and keep his own arousal under control. Desire grows between them as each roll of the die reveals secrets, truths, and a greater expanse of skin, until the mastermind behind the game forces Jonathan to confront his worse fear or lose Isabelle forever.

Sensuality Level: Sensual
To thank your readers for visiting today, I’d like to offer the chance to win a small travel gift since Rhapsody takes place on a tropical vacation. Please leave a comment with your email address and tell us your favourite romantic travel destination, and I’ll randomly select one commenter.

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Book Blitz: The Unicorn and the Serpent by Ellie Potts

The Unicorn and The Serpent

Ellie Potts

Buy Links: Publisher / Amazon / Barnes & Noble

Princess Morgan, wild and fiery, heir to her father’s throne, can best any man with a sword. Now a woman she is fearful of being Queen and marriage. But when visitors from a different kingdom show up Morgan is faced with big changes. Faced with loss, love and some touches of magic Morgan has to become the Queen she is meant to be or succumb to a life worse than death.

 

Excerpt:

“Out here is the training area,” Cormack said, opening the old wooden door and walking onto a small wooden platform. They all looked down, watching the two fighting in the ring.

“King Cormack, your man is fighting in a dress,” Prince Philip said, stunned.

“Watch,” he said, as Morgan threw the helmet from her head.

“I will make you wear it, Ryan,” she said, angrily. She spun in a blur, sword hitting against Coyle’s.

The women gasped and the men stared in shocked silence. The guards and Morgan all went still, looking up. Ryan took her sword, and they all bowed, except for Morgan; she gave a slight nod of her head.

“Hello, Father, will you join us?”

“No. You know I do not fancy the sword as much as you do. And do not let us stop you,” he said.

“You let her play with the men?” King Henry asked, not holding the shock from his voice.

“She is my second,” he said.

“Because she is your heir?”

“Because she is the best sword fighter ever seen,” he said, smiling down at his daughter. She gave him a small salute with the sword, to thank him for his praise.

“But she is a woman,” Henry said.

“A girl? And you say she is the best of all your men? That does not make them seem very good, does it? I mean, a woman cannot be better than a man at many things, other than music and sewing,” Philip said.

“You can ask all my men. They are all very good with a sword, but they will tell you she can beat any of them. She has been fighting since she was a child.”

“You let your daughter fight?” Queen Jaylene said, stunned.

“I gave her a wooden sword. It was carved by my great-grandfather and passed down from father to child since.”

“I have never been beaten by a girl. And will never, for the sake of our sex, let it be said that a girl can beat a man,” Philip said.

“I should have died if I were to have a girl and find her fighting,”

Jaylene said.

“She does carry herself very well,” Cormack said.

Prince Philip looked down at the woman with curly, auburn hair. She watched them with dark emerald eyes that sparkled like jewels. He saw a fire in those eyes he did not agree with. He felt a need to tame her like a horse. She would make a wonderful trophy; even if, perhaps, she was not as beautiful as some of the other women in his circle. It would mean more land to add to his Father’s, one that produced very well.

“I challenge the princess,” he said. “I wish to see if she is really as good as the praise.”

The guards all murmured below. Coyle nudged her. “You have been challenged,” he whispered. “Will you accept?”

“Have I ever turned down a challenge?”

“Not once.”

“I accept your challenge, Prince Philip.”

 

About the Author:

Somebody told Ellie Potts you had to be rich to be eccentric otherwise you were just crazy. She set out to prove them wrong doing things she was told she couldn’t do like dressing like a pirate, get her books published, playing video games, planning to survive a zombie apocalypse, and other antics most women stay away from. Her love of books motivate her and movies captivate her. She loves almost everything from Disney to George Romero. She lives in California’s Central Valley where most of her stories and books take place. Her and her husband are owned by their attack Bugg, and her two red eared slider turtle minions who live in the backyard.

Blog / Facebook

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Kelly’s review of Killing Time by Cindy Gerard

TITLE: Killing Time – One-Eyed Jacks #1
AUTHOR: Cindy Gerard
Characters: Mike & Eva
PUBLICATION DATE: 1/22/13
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
An exciting new series featuring Mike “Primetown” Brown, a character from her popular “Black Ops, Inc.” series.

For the seven years after Operation Slam Dunk went south, Mike Brown got drunk on each anniversary. The eighth year was no different–until he was drugged by a woman and woke up to her questions about what had happened eight years ago in Afghanistan. CIA attorney Eva Salinas has her own theory behind what happened to Mike’s team–which included her husband–in Afghanistan eight years ago, and she’s determined to prove foul play. Though she doesn’t trust him, Mike is the only person she can turn to for help. Under an assumed name, Eva convinces Mike to assemble a new team and go after the traitor who screwed up both their lives. As they track down the rogue who started it all, Eva and Mike discover they can’t live without each other. But can they stay alive while an enemy is still on the loose?

REVIEW:
Killing Time is Cindy Gerard’s first book in her new One-Eyed Jacks series, which is a spin off of her Black Ops Series. While I have not read any of the Black Ops books, I didn’t feel lost at all when some of the Black Ops characters popped into this book. If anything it makes me want to go buy the whole Black Ops series and read them. But back to Killing Time.

Mike & Eva don’t really get off on the right foot in this book. I love that Eva was able to get a jump on him, seeing he was thinking with the wrong brain and all. But they make a great team and you always need some you trust at your six.

There is a lot of history in this book, but Cindy does a great job of laying it out for us, so we don’t feel lost. I had a hard time putting this book down. I kept wanting to know who…. Who did this to Mike & Eva….. Who, Why and Oh please don’t let it be…… (you know I don’t give spoiler’s silly)

Over all I really enjoyed this book and so look forward to what Cindy has in store for Coppe & Taggart, Mike’s fellow One-Eyed Jack Team members

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

4 Hearts
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Interview & Giveaway with Carly Phillips

Books-n-Kisses is super excited to have first time guest Carly Phillips on the blog today…  We are chatting about life, her new book PERFECT FIT and page 89!!!!

Carly, can you please share with us a little about yourself

I’m a stay at home mom who used to be a lawyer, who turned into a romance writer and never looked back! I have 2 daughters, age (almost) 21 and 16, a husband, and two dogs (Wheaten Terrier and Havanese).  I love love love to read, I’m always online, I occasionally knit, and enjoy shopping and being with close friends!

Have you always wanted to be an author?

Not always.  I was a lawyer for a (short) time, and always a huge reader.  Once I found the Romance genre as a reader, I knew what was missing from my life, somehow I decided to try my hand at writing, and from that day forward, I KNEW that was what I was meant to do! Looking back, I did make up stories in my head when I was younger, so the tendencies were there all along.  I just didn’t know it!

Can you share with us your typical writing day.  Is there anything you have to have while writing?

I wake up at 6 and my youngest leaves for high school at 7.  I try to get on the treadmill for 30 minutes, then shower and sit down to write … errands after 11/11:30, a boring lunch at home, usually peanut butter and jelly on whole wheat, unless I go out with a friend for lunch, then home to try and write some more.  My schedule has been really messed up lately because my dad passed away and I’m having trouble getting my mind back on work.  But my daughter drives now, so I don’t have to run around for school pickup, so dinner, and hanging out w/my husband …we watch TV, DVR’s of shows we missed, then when he falls asleep I like to hang out with my daughter for a little before she goes to bed.  I need to be asleep between 10 and 11 or I’m nasty the next day.  All that’s an ideal schedule for me but like I said, life can get in the way and all bets are off.  I’m looking to find my routine and mojo again.

I’m usually on the computer all the time, so always working in one way or another!    I love my Macbook Air and I really can only write on that but luckily that means I can work anywhere!

Most challenging or rewarding part of writing?

When a story clicks and I finally nail something I’ve been struggling with, then all the angst is worth it! That’s really rewarding.  The most challenging for me is usually the first half of the book.  I find getting all the elements together the hardest.

Can you please tell us about your latest book?

Perfect Fit is a part of the town of Serendipity.  It’s the first book where you meet Mike, but you’ve met his brother Sam in Karma, along with Mike’s heroine, Cara Hartley.  Cara spoke to me and needed a hero.  In Perfect Fit, you’re introduced to the entire Marsden Clan, the “cops of Serendipity” hence the subtitle Serendipity’s Finest.  Mike feels like the odd man in his family, the only one who doesn’t fit in because he’s been adopted by the man who raised him and never felt good enough because his own dad abandoned him.  Despite his feelings, he’s close with his parents and siblings and though he left home to make his own way as a cop, he returns when his adoptive father needs him, never expecting to stay long.  But Mike didn’t count on Cara.  She’s a Serendipity cop with whom he had a one night stand, and she’s his brother’s best friend. She’s also a small town girl and Mike’s a wanderer, or so he thinks.  But when they can’t ignore the sexual tension between them, they figure an affair is the answer – until an unexpected emotional connection continues to grow.  Then Mike’s real father’s secrets come back to haunt him and he has to confront who he really is – and wants to be – or lose Cara for good.

How did you come with the idea for this story?

Luckily for me, readers really seemed to like the town of Serendipity, where I set the first three books about the Barron Brothers in Serendipity, Destiny and Karma, so I got to write Mike and Cara’s story! Next we’ll get Mike and Sam’s sister Erin in Perfect Fling (8/2013) and then Sam himself in Perfect Together (2/2014).

Can you share with us your current work in progress?

I’m currently writing Perfect Fling, which is the story of Erin Marsden and her hero, Cole Sanders.  There’s an excerpt in the back of Perfect Fit for this story which is out in August 2013 and I can say it’s another one night stand, this one with far reaching consequences!  Then I write Perfect Together, Sam’s story.  After that, we’ll see! I’m as curious as you 🙂

Who are some of your favorite authors?

My current fav author is Kristen Ashley – I’ve read everything she’s written and would devour anything she writes in the future!  I also have my staple authors, my plotmonkey partners – Janelle Denison, Leslie Kelly, Julie Leto.  And I’ve been on an erotic romance kick – so Raine Miller and Cheri Lynn.

Do you feel that any of your favorite authors have inspired your writing style? 

Wow. Good question! “Growing up” I really aspired to write along the lines of authors I admired in the contemporary romance genre.  These days, I think I’ve found my voice and do what I do – however I do find my heroes like to be a little more dominating lately … could be my reading influencing things? J

Open your book to a random page and tell us what’s happening.

I opened to page 89 –

Cara was coming out of her skin, every exposed body part needing something more.  But the further she writhed beneath him, the harder he held her down in one place, pressing into her with his taut, hard body.  The man did like his control, she thought, twisting her hips against him in search of relief.

Ummm … I think the passage speaks for itself 🙂

What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for?

Hmmmm …. I have to say you stumped me.  I’m currently not finding much to read, waiting (im)patiently for something I’ve preordered and probably forgotten to pop onto my iPad Kindle app! LOL.  I have a bad memory J  But on Saturdays on my Facebook Fan Page, I ask people what they’re reading and we share books – I can get upwards of 200 ideas that way! So I urge people who love to read romance to join us there! www.facebook.com/carlyphillipsfanpage

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Thank you for having me! I really enjoyed your questions!

 

A little about Carly:

Carly Phillips has written over 35 romance novels with contemporary characters and small town settings that today’s readers identify with and enjoy.  She’s currently focused on the New York Times bestselling Serendipity series set in the small fictional town in upstate, New York.  Carly is a writer, a knitter of sorts, a wife, and a mom to two daughters (16 and 20!) and two crazy dogs (a 1 year old Havanese named Brady and a 5 year old wheaten terrier named Bailey).  In addition, she’s a Twitter, Facebook and Internet junkie and is always around to interact with her readers.   Carly lives in Purchase, New York and would love for you to like and follow her on the web.

Where to find Carly:

Carly’s Website |  Carly on Twitter |  Carly on Facebook 

 

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Interview & Giveaway with Stacey Kennedy

Books-n-Kisses is pleased to have our pal Stacey Kennedy on the blog today to chat about her newest release The Cat’s Meow.  

Stacey, can you please share with us a little about yourself.

I live in Southwestern Ontario with my husband who gave me my happily ever after. We have two small children who keep me on my toes and can always make me smile. But we also have basically a zoo at our house with one dog and three cats. I love the outdoors, camping, curling up with the latest flick, and Sons of Anarchy, Games of Thrones, Supernatural and Dexter.

My urban fantasy romance novels are lighthearted fantasy with heart squeezing, thigh-clenching romance, and even give a good chuckle every now and again. But within the stories you’ll find fast paced action, emotions we can all relate to, life threatening moments and a big bad villain that needs to be destroyed.

My erotic romance novels are just that…erotic. There is nothing better than taking the dominant men I love and watching them do wicked things to their women. I make the stories as hot as I possibly can and usually the characters take it a step further to even make my cheeks blush. But I just can’t write without a little humor added into the mix so that’s always a must have in my stories. And of course, what’s a story without a big dose of emotional characters, too.

Have you always wanted to be an author?

Nope. My journey as a writer all began as a way to keep my brain alive since being a stay at home mom can be a little let’s say―numbing. It was an escape from screaming kids, dirty diapers and plain old mom duty.  It started as a hobby, but as the stories progressed it became a passion, especially when it comes down to the juicy bits. Every mom needs a good thrill!

Who are some of your favorite writers? Who do you feel has influenced your writing?

I adore Katie MacAlister’s dragon series and Sylvia Day’s Crossfire novels. I love Jennifer L. Armentrout’s Lux series. Jeaniene Frost is an auto-buy for me and I adore the Night Huntress world, especially Vlad. But Keri Arthur is, by far, my favorite author and who inspires me the most. I love everything about her books; the mystery, the sexual tension and the fantasy elements. Her Riley Jenson Guardian novels were the books that made me fall in love with the genre. Now, I’m totally obsessed with her Dark Angels novels and just can’t get enough!

How did you get into writing in this specific genre?  Have you ever thought about writing in a different genre?

I write in the urban fantasy romance genre, because I adore it. It’s my favorite genre to read and I honestly have a total blast writing it. I’m totally one of those authors who write because I have fun doing it. All of my books are written for my own personal enjoyment and it just makes me so happy that other people enjoy them, too.

The other genre I write in is BDSM erotic romance. What can I say, I have a thing for the Alpha male!  I wouldn’t even attempt to write in any other genre…right now. Who knows what will happen down the road and if my interests will change, but right now, these genres are my addiction.

What are some of your writing rituals?

Coffee. That’s it, that’s all. I always need either a plain old coffee, or a yummy treat from Starbucks, before I can even think of writing a word. Once I have a coffee, I’m ready to get those words written.

Can you please tell us about your latest book(s)?

My newest release is The Cat’s Meow. It’s an urban fantasy romance, which means it has a mystery at the core of the book and lots of those fun twists and turns. Of course, I need a little romance in there, too.

Here’s a peek at it:

Libby is an Enchantress—a witch gifted by the Goddess to conjure spells. When a magical presence is detected around a recent string of feline slayings, Libby takes the case to uncover the reasons behind the odd deaths. Much to her displeasure, the coven also sends a sexy warlock, Kale, to assist her.

While having the muscle around proves to be useful, fighting the attraction between them is worse than a hex, especially considering Kale is keeping secrets. But soon, Libby has bigger problems than the elusive warlock when her spells turn up clues that point to something far more sinister than slaughtered cats.

Now Libby has landed herself in the midst of an uprising. She trusts no one and isn’t safe—not from the warlocks stirring up trouble. Not from the worrisome rebellion she can’t escape. And certainly not from Kale, who is weaving a very dangerous spell over her heart.

Check out BnK’s review of The Cat’s Meow HERE

How did you come with the idea for this story?

Libby came to me first. To be honest, I thought the idea of having a witch, who uses magical spells and hunts the bad guys would just be a really fun book to write. And I was right—I had a total blast writing Libby and Kale.

After I figured Libby out, Kale came to me…and then he took over! The plot, all the little twists to the story, just fell into place after Kale’s first appearance in the book.

Can you share with us your current work(s) in progress?

I have an insanely busy schedule over the next few months. I’m nearly finished the third book in The Pact of Seduction series (Loose Id). Once I get that off to my editor, I plan to write the second book in Witch’s Brew series (Entangled), then I’ll get down to starting the second book in the Club Sin series (Random House/Loveswept). So, yes, busy times ahead, but oh so fun!

Open your book to a random page and tell us what’s happening.

 

“Why do you keep looking at me like…that?”

His eyebrow arched. “Like what?”

“All curious like.”

He smiled. “Because I am curious why we are walking around a cemetery with a dead cat in your hand.”

Libby has been hurt…and hurt badly, this leaves her very cautious and judgmental. In this part of the book, Libby begins to realize that Kale isn’t who he says he is and she’s trying to figure out his game. Only problem? He’s very good at keeping secrets!

What would you be if you were not an author?

I would continue to do the other job I love, being a stay-at-home-mom, who would likely read a lot. Maybe I’d even be a book blogger, since when it comes right down to it, I simply love books.

What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for?

Right now, I have Keri Arthur’s, Darkness Hunts and Beneath a Rising Moon, and Jennifer L. Armentrout’s, Opal.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

As always, a big thank you to all my readers—you guys always know how to make a girl feel good! And thank you to Books-n-Kisses for letting me spend some time with you all today!

 

THE CAT’S MEOW

Entangled Publishing  |  Amazon  |   B&N  |   Books on Board  |  iTunes

 EXCERPT LINK: http://www.staceykennedy.com/the-cats-meow/

 

BIO:

Stacey Kennedy’s novels are lighthearted fantasy with heart-squeezing, thigh-clenching romance, and even give a good chuckle every now and again. But within the stories you’ll also find fast-paced action, life-threatening moments, and a big bad villain who needs to be destroyed. She lives in Southwestern Ontario with her husband and two children. If she’s not plugging away at a new story—which is rare because her muse is annoying—you’ll find her camping, curling up with the latest flick, or obsessing over Sons of Anarchy, Games of Thrones, Supernatural and Dexter.

Stacey welcomes comments from readers. You can find her at:

Website | Blog | Facebook  |  Facebook Fan Page |  Twitter  |  Goodreads  | Amazon Author Page

Want to see more of Stacey?
Check out her book tour HERE

 

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Interview with Destiny Wallace

 

Books-n-Kisses is pleased to welcome Destiny Wallace to the blog today.

Destiny, can you please share with us a little about yourself?

I grew up in North Carolina.  As an only child, I spent a lot of time in my imagination.  I learned to read when I was four and never stopped.  I wrote my first story when I was in the first grade.  It was about my classmate, his lost textbook, and how I helped him find it.  That story was put in the writing folder that followed me through school.  I got it back when I graduated from high school and every now and then, I pull that story out, read it, and I resolve that seven-year-old me should definitely grow up to be a writer.

I spent four years in the Air Force where I met my husband.  We have two children.  We’ve lived in Florida for the past eight years. In addition to my job, I do volunteer work, I help at my kids’ school, and I love to cook.

Have you always wanted to be an author?

I have wanted to write since I was in Elementary school.  I wrote stories and drew comic strips all through high school.  I even helped my friend write a comic book starring me as one of the heroes.

What is your most interesting writing quirk?

I have at least ten stories started at any given time.  I start them, get as far as I can, then leave them until I get another dose of inspiration.  Then, I return to the story.  Sometimes it take weeks for me to finish a story, sometimes it takes years.

Can you please tell us about your latest book(s)?

My latest releases:

Believe: A Halloween Anthology: This is a collection of stories about four women and the ways they found love with the help of some supernatural beings and abilities.

House Sitting:  The story centers on recent college graduate, Leah moves back home, but gets a job house sitting for the summer.  She jumps at the chance to live alone for the first time ever and work on jump-starting her adult life.  Then she meets Jaysen, the boy next door, and struggles not to fall for him.

Joy’s Christmas:  Joy thinks her Christmas is ruined after she storms out on her family and finds herself in a rundown motel for the holiday.  Then, she meets Eli and her holiday gets much, much better.

How did you come with the idea for this story?

Believe: A Halloween Anthology:  Halloween is one of my favorite holidays.  For the first story, I was inspired by the idea of a haunted Halloween costume.  The sequels include a haunted diary, a very bothered medium, and a woman in need of something or someone to pull her out of the guilt and grief caused by the death of her older sister.  Each heroine is connected to the one from the previous story, as are their male counterparts.

House Sitting: I dreamt about Jaysen and Leah.  It was one scene: the two of them were making out in a lavish kitchen.  There was a large pool visible through the window behind them.  A sweet, little old lady walked in.  They jumped apart, guilt written all over their faces.  The old lady smiled at them, said a few reassuring words, and walked out of the kitchen.

The dream was so vivid, when I woke up the next morning, I knew I had to figure out who they were and write about them.

Joy’s Christmas:  This story is very loosely based on actual events!  When my family was on Christmas vacation in New Jersey, we were thrown into the same situation as Joy…not with the same results, of course.

Can you share with us your current work(s) in progress?

I am currently working on Joy’s New Year.  It is a sequel to Joy’s Christmas and a prequel to Joy’s Valentine.

Who is the one author that you would love to meet someday and why?

I would love to meet Mary Janice Davidson.  I was on vacation in England in 2006 and picked up Undead and Unwed at a book store.  They were having a buy 2, get 1 free sale, so I bought the next two in the series.  I told my husband I would have them to read on the flights home in 3 days.  I was done with all 3 books before we even left for the airport!  Then, when we got back to the States, I went to the nearest bookstore to buy the next book!

Her Undead series inspired me to realize my dream of being a published author.

What is the best piece of advice you would give to someone that wants to get into writing?

Just do it.  I spent too much time doubting myself and questioning whether or not anyone would be interested in my work.  It took a lot of encouragement for me to submit my work to publishers, but after I did, I wish I’d done it earlier.

Can you share with us something off your bucket list.

I want to travel the world, but I have always wanted to visit Australia specifically.

What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for?

My To-Be-Read-Pile is enormous.  However, I am excited for the next book in  Charlaine Harris’ Southern Vampire series (aka Sookie Stackhouse aka True Blood).  I am also intent on reading all the Jane Austen Heroes books by Amanda Grange.  I only have Colonel Brandon’s Diary and Henry Tilney’s Diary left to read…until she writes another.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I would just like to say that I am grateful to everyone who buys my books!  I love writing and knowing that people enjoy my work is priceless.  Thanks especially to everyone who takes the time contact me.

Facebook:  https://m.facebook.com/destiny.wallace.940?refid=70

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/11140344-destiny

Twitter:  @destinycallzu

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Kissin’ the week of Dec 31st- Jan 5th Goodbye

12.31.12

Happy New Years Eve

Kelly’s review of A Taste of Ice by Hanna Martine

1.1.13

Happy New Year

Happy 1st Release Day of 2013

Cover Love:  Alien in the House by Gini Koch

Kelly’s review of The Cat’s Meow by Stacey Kennedy

1.2.13

Books-n-Kisses Wants to Know 

Kelly’s review of Forever a Lord by Delilah Marvelle

1.3.13

The Rumor Series Tour

Kimberly’s review of Return to Sender by Fern Michaels 

Thursday’s Thought

1.4.13

Book Blitz: Her Wolfen Destiny by Dakota Trace

Kimberly’s review of Rogue Rider by Larissa Ione

How many books are you going to read in 2013??

1.5.13

SINsational Saturday Series:  Lucky Harbor Series by Jill Shalvis

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Lucky Harbor Series by Jill Shalvis

Simply Irresistible 

Lucky Harbor #1

Maddie Moore’s whole life needs a makeover.

In one fell swoop, Maddie loses her boyfriend (her decision) and her job (so not her decision). But rather than drowning her sorrows in bags of potato chips, Maddie leaves L.A. to claim the inheritance left by her free-spirited mother–a ramshackle inn nestled in the little coastal town of Lucky Harbor, Washington.

Starting over won’t be easy. Yet Maddie sees the potential for a new home and a new career–if only she can convince her two half-sisters to join her in the adventure. But convincing Tara and Chloe will be difficult because the inn needs a big makeover too.

The contractor Maddie hires is a tall, dark-haired hottie whose eyes–and mouth–are making it hard for her to remember that she’s sworn off men. Even harder will be Maddie’s struggles to overcome the past, though she’s about to discover that there’s no better place to call home than Lucky Harbor.

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The Sweetest Thing 

Lucky Harbor #2

Two Men Are One Too Many . . . 

Tara has a thousand good reasons not to return to the little coastal town of Lucky Harbor, Washington. Yet with her life doing a major crash-and-burn, anywhere away from her unfulfilled dreams and sexy ex-husband will do. As Tara helps her two sisters get their newly renovated inn up and running, she finally has a chance to get things under control and come up with a new plan for her life.

But a certain tanned, green-eyed sailor has his own ideas, such as keeping Tara hot, bothered . . . and in his bed. And when her ex wants Tara back, three is a crowd she can’t control-especially when her deepest secret reappears out of the blue. Now Tara must confront her past and discover what she really wants. If she’s lucky, she might just find that everything her heart desires is right here in Lucky Harbor.

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Heating Up the Kitchen: Recipes with Love from Lucky Harbor

Lucky Harbor #2.1

Hello Readers,

Thanks for coming to Lucky Harbor. I’m sure your presence has already been noted by Lucille and the rest of her blue-hair posse and will shortly be posted on their Facebook page. Hope you don’t have toilet paper stuck to your shoe.

Or any secrets…

In these pages are recipes on how to catch a man, how to cope with sisters, and bunches of wisdom. Whoops, sorry. Wrong book. (See eitherSimply Irresistible, The Sweetest Thing, or Head Over Heels).

There are, however, some fantastic recipes from my very own kitchen, and in the cooking of these recipes, I can guarantee you a culinary experience that will make you forget your troubles.

Happy cooking, happy eating, and happy reading!

Tara Daniels

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Small Town Christmas 

Lucky Harbor #2.5

by Jill Shalvis (Goodreads Author), Hope Ramsay (Goodreads Author), Katie Lane

Three heartwarming holiday stories 
to prove that love is the greatest gift of all 

Kissing Santa Claus 
NASCAR driver Logan Perrish returns to Lucky Harbor, Washington, with love in his heart and a ring in his pocket. But can Sandy Jansen forget the past and give him a second chance? Or will Logan be spending another Christmas alone?

I’ll Be Home for Christmas 
After ignoring the advice of Miz Miriam Randall, local matchmaker, Annie Roberts expects another hum drum holiday in Last Chance, South Carolina. But when a stray cat arrives in the arms of Army sergeant Matt Jasper, a calico named Holly just may be the best matchmaker of all.

O Little Town of Bramble 
All Ethan Miller wants for Christmas is to celebrate in Bramble, Texas, with family and friends. But when his childhood neighbor, Samantha Henderson, comes home for the holiday, Ethan realizes that the girl-next-door could be the girl of his dreams.

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Head Over Heels 

Lucky Harbor #3

Breaking rules and breaking hearts

Free-spirited Chloe lives life on the edge. Unlike her soon-to-be married sisters, she isn’t ready to settle into a quiet life running their family’s newly renovated inn. But soon her love of trouble–and trouble with love-draws the attention of the very stern, very sexy sheriff who’d like nothing better than to tame her wild ways.

Suddenly Chloe can’t take a misstep without the sheriff hot on her heels. His rugged swagger and his enigmatic smile are enough to make a girl beg to be handcuffed. For the first time, instead of avoiding the law, Chloe dreams of surrender. Can this rebel find a way to keep the peace with the straitlaced sheriff? Or will Chloe’s colorful past keep her from a love that lasts . . . and the safe haven she truly wants in a town called Lucky Harbor?

*********

Lucky in Love 

Lucky Harbor #4

Mallory Quinn has had enough of playing it safe. As a nurse and devoted daughter, she takes care of everyone but herself. And as the local good girl, she’s expected to date Mr. Right. But for once, she’d like to take a risk on Mr. Wrong. And who could be more wrong than Ty Garrison? The mysterious new guy in town has made it clear that he’s only passing through, which suits Mallory just fine. Besides, his lean, hard body and sexy smile will give her plenty to remember once he’s gone . . .
For the first time in his life, Ty can’t bear to leave. Helping this sexy seductress-in-training walk on the wild side is making him desire things he shouldn?t?including leaving the military for good. As their just-for-fun fling becomes something more, Mallory and Ty wonder if they could really be this lucky in love. After all . . . anything can happen in a town called Lucky Harbor.

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At Last 

Lucky Harbor #5

HER LOVE HAS COME ALONG . . .
Amy Michaels loves her new life in Lucky Harbor. A waitress in the local diner, she’s looking forward to her first weekend hike through the mountains. But when a wrong turn takes her off the trail, she finds herself up close and personal with forest ranger Matt Bowers. And even though she’s tempted to kiss that sexy smile right off his face, she won’t make the mistake of getting involved with the town heartthrob.

A former cop whose life went south, Matt doesn’t let anyone get too close. But something about the feisty beauty caught his eye the moment he first saw her in the diner. After a hot night under a starry sky, Matt can’t deny their attraction-or the fact that for the first time in a long time, he feels the stirrings of something more. Now it’s up to Matt to help Amy see that, no matter what is in their past, together they can build a future in Lucky Harbor.

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Forever and a Day 

Lucky Harbor #6

LOVE CAN HAPPEN IN A HEARTBEAT.

Grace never thought she’d be starting her life over from scratch. Losing everything has landed her in Lucky Harbor, working as a dog walker for overwhelmed ER doctor Josh Scott. But the day his nanny fails to show up, Grace goes from caring for Josh’s loveable mutt to caring for his rambunctious kids. Soon Grace is playing house with the sexy single dad…

With so many people depending on him, Josh has no time for anything outside of his clinic and family–until Grace arrives in town. Now this brainy blonde is turning his life inside out and giving a whole new meaning to the phrase “good bedside manner.” Josh and Grace don’t know if what they have can last. But in a town like Lucky Harbor, a lifetime of love starts with just one day

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Under the Mistletoe 

Lucky Harbor #6.5

JUST ONE MORE KISS

There’s no place like home for the holidays. And the Lucky Harbor Bed & Breakfast is bursting with festive lights and good cheer. But for Mia, Christmas is turning out to be anything other than merry and bright. Her recent break-up with her boyfriend Nick has made her return bittersweet. But then a surprise arrives, when Nick follows her to town bearing gifts-and asking for forgiveness.

Nick grew up without a family of his own so he’s overwhelmed by the love that Mia receives from all her relatives, gathered together to celebrate the season. Under their watchful eyes, Nick finds earning back her trust the hardest thing he’s ever had to do. If he succeeds, he will receive the greatest gift of all, Mia’s love for a lifetime.

*********

It Had To Be You 

Lucky Harbor #7

Everyone in town thinks Ali Winters is a thief. Her only shot at clearing her name is a police detective who’s as sexy as he is stern…

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Always On My Mind 

Lucky Harbor #8

Expected publication: October 2013

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Once In a Lifetime 

Lucky Harbor #9

Expected publication: 2014

Buy Jill’s books here 

 

Jill’s Amazon Page |  Jill’s B&N Page | Jill’s BAM Page | Jill’s Powells page

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Book Blitz: Her Wolfen Destiny by Dakota Trace

Her Wolfen Destiny
Dakota Trace

 Braden Donnghal, the first American born, Irish-Scottish werewolf is packless after the death of his parents. In an effort to get back into the good graces of his parents’ former pack, he has to prove his worth by escorting the Alpha’s intended mate back to the pack. It seems easy enough – all he has to do is deliver her untouched by the next full moon for her claiming. He’s prepared to avoid the roving enemy soldiers, bombs and even Emma’s father, the feared MacDonald, but what he isn’t prepared for his reaction to the high-spirited but seductive Emma MacDonald. Or his unrelenting desire to claim her as his own. But if he does, he’ll be exiled if not killed on sight.

Emma MacDonald has been told since birth that her destiny is to give birth to the saviors of her race, twin russet wolves, in an upcoming racial war with the humans. But being a woman raised in the midst of the Great War, she is tired of war and vows to flout her father’s decree that she marry the neighboring Alpha of the Donnghal clan. When Braden arrives to escort her to the Donnghal Alpha she unprepared for his awakening of her wolf, which can only mean one thing. He’s her mate and her escape from her betrothal. If he mates her she doesn’t have to marry his uncle. Her hopes are dashed however when Braden cruelly rejects their bond. But that ceases to matter when the pack which Braden hopes to join turns on him.

 Buy Link

 Excerpt:

Moving further into the solar, Emma looked around apprehensively, taking in every minute detail of her surroundings. Sniffing the air, she could scent nothing more than old books and the wood stacked next to the fireplace. Her father hadn’t been in the room for several hours it seemed. Thank God, because the book lined solar was her refuge from everything – the one place she could find peace.  Latching the door behind her, she slipped around one of the two high winged back chairs. Tossing the thick lap-robe up and over her body, she settled into the chair. Her plan had seemed so simple when she’d plotted with Lettie – find  a wolf to mate with – one that would bind her to him, but it seemed that each man she approached did nothing for her wolf.  The bitch continues to lay dormant no matter which male comes sniffing around. If I didn’t know better I’d think she’s an omega – hiding from all.   The low growl erupting from her throat told her of her wolf’s obvious feelings on the matter. She sighed – tired of trying to find a solution to a problem which wasn’t solvable. Perhaps running away would be best.

But even as she thought it, her wolf grunted. Strong and pure, the alpha bitch residing inside her would run from no man or beast – even if she didn’t deign to meet any of the prospective suitors Emma had paraded in front of her.

Snuggling deeper into the plush cushions, she continued to study the flames in the fireplace, and was just dropping off to sleep when the most intoxicating smell she’d ever scented teased her nostrils.  With the hint of nutmeg and pine, her inner wolf’s ear perked up as she sniffed the air. Mate?  Exhilaration chased away the lingering weariness.  Turning her head, she got her first glimpse of the man who was her mate standing next to her father.

Tall and broad shouldered, his closely cropped dark hair and neat appearance smacked of time spent in the military but the bruising and swelling around his left eye and nose attested to the fact he’d been in a recent altercation.  Then the scent of another female hit her nose.  A low growl built in her throat at the idea. Her wolf began to pace in agitation and it was all she could do to keep her from springing on the unsuspecting man.

The Great Mac’s head swung in her direction.

“Emma-girl, there you are. Your mother has been looking all over for you.”

She rose with a low snarl before skirting around the wingback chair. The rumbling in her chest grew louder the closer she stalked to the pair. The stranger shifted a bit as he took in every detail of her. She felt the heat of his eyes stroking over her form and if she’d been a normal woman she’d have preened under his gaze. But she wasn’t, and with the musky scent of another aggravating her wolf, all Emma wanted to do was mark the man. He was hers and soon he’d accept the fact. She watched as his nostrils flared before he inhaled sharply. Immediately the knowledge of what they meant to each other washed over his face. His fists clenched as she closed the distance between them, but he held his ground despite the increasing noise her bitch was making.

“What’s wrong, lass? This is your betrothed’s surrogate. He’s here to marry you in his Alpha’s stead. You have no reason to be hostile.”

Her father’s whisper was ignored as she stopped with only inches separating her aching body from the male in front of her.  She looking up into deep blue eyes, her fingers curling hesitantly against the broad expanse of his chest. He relaxed under her touch as she gave him a warning smile – his first mistake. One  she was sure he’d be leery about in the future. Everyone in her pack knew to tread softly when Emma smiled in a certain way.  It usually meant she was plotting bodily harm – and this time was no different. Her mate had allowed another to touch him – to take what was rightfully hers and it didn’t matter to her wolf that it’d been before her – she demanded that Emma show the man the error of his ways.

With her wolf’s first heat upon her, triggered by her mate’s presence, her fingernails grew into razor sharp talons as her voice became raspier. “Mine!” she hissed, before piercing into the heavy chest muscles under her palms – marking him. He stiffened as if he’d been hit by lightning as a low moan passed his parted lips. She flexed her fingers, digging deep – needing to impress upon him severity of giving another what she considered as hers.

“Fuck.” His head tipped back as his torso arched away from her – his lower body swayed towards hers. Against her stomach she felt  an unfamiliar hardness  – one  which would’ve had her wolf purring – if wolves purred.

“Emma Rose MacDonald! Release him!” Her father moved closer – too close for Emma’s wolf’s comfort. She bared her teeth at her sire. As an alpha bitch, she cared less about pack policies when it came to her mate. He had no right to interfere.

“Mine!” She snapped at Liam. He froze before a low rumble of his displeasure filled the room.

 

About the Author:

Dakota is a simple Midwest girl, who has found her passion in storytelling at a young age. Her father always said she made up the craziest stories.  Most remained unwritten though as writing wasn’t Dakota’s strong suit. That all changed in junior high when she took her first typing class. Problem solved for the dyslexic Dakota. There was no stopping her after that. She wrote her first novel her freshman year about a girl who could speak to animals on an old electric IBM typewriter her dad found at a garage sale. Now writing in several different genres, she is a published author with multiple books under her belt.  When she isn’t writing, she’s the crazy mom of three wild Indians who are posing as her children, a loving wife to the man of her dreams and a full time Graphic Design Major at IADT.

Website /Blog / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads / Amazon

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The Rumor Series Tour

Forever Mine

Prequel

Love can open your eyes…

​Lady Augustine Jane Ascott longs for a man who will do more than offer on her hand in marriage.  She wants a husband she can trust, someone who will shield her from the darkness of the world.  Her heart was broken when her younger brother was kidnapped years earlier, and she still carries the pain of his loss.

When the handsome Duke of Wentworth makes his feelings for her known, Augustine’s past demons warn her away.  Besides, every woman in London knows he’s devoted to the memory of his late wife.  But is it possible he cares for her after all — and that their love can bring them the peace they both crave?

 

Forever and A Day 

Book 1

Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Some memories really are unforgettable…

​Roderick Gideon Tremayne, the recently appointed Duke of Wentworth, never expected to find himself in New York City, tracking down a mysterious map important to his late mother. And he certainly never expected to be injured, only to wake up with no memory of who he is. But when he sees the fiery-haired beauty who’s taken it upon herself to rescue him, suddenly his memory is the last thing on his mind.

​Georgia Milton, the young head of New York’s notorious Forty Thieves, feels responsible for the man who was trying to save her reticule from a thief.  But she’s not prepared for the fierce passion he ignites within her.  When his memory begins to return, her whole world is threatened, and Roderick must choose between the life he forgot and the life he never knew existed…​

 

Forever A Lady 

Book 2

Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Two different classes, One common desire…

​Bernadette Marie Burton may be the richest widow in England, but like her dreams of finding true passion, her reputation is deteriorating.  Cruel gossip, loneliness and hoards of opportunistic suitors have her believing Society couldn’t be more vile….or dangerous.  So when an attacker threatens her life, she finds safety in the most unseemly of places: the arms of a mysterious, Irish-American gang leader.

His fortune stolen, young Matthew Joseph Milton is done playing the respectable gentleman.  In the slums of New York, only ruffians thrive.  But from the moment he arrives in London and encounters the volumptious Lady Bernadette, he  can’t help but wonder about the finer pleasures he’s missing.  Or just how much he’s willing to risk — not only to bed her, but  to prove his worth…

Forever A Lord

Book 3

He’s a fighter, not a lover.

​But that’s about to change…

Lady Imogene Norwood lived a sheltered life of quiet respectability and routine…until she debuts at her first Season. There she meets the wild and broken Lord Atwood among London’s elite. And the very shy English rose suddenly realizes that a little chaos might just be what her heart desires.

​ Lord Nathaniel James Atwood doesn’t believe true love exists. Since scandal tore him away from his family at an early age, he has spent his life fighting for what he wants. That attitude made him a rising star in bare-knuckle boxing, and now leads him back to London to reclaim the life that was stolen from him. But upon meeting the innocent Imogene, his beliefs are trounced…as guarding his heart against her proves to be the fight of his life.

 

 

A little about Delilah: 

Delilah Marvelle spent her youth studying various languages, reading voraciously and playing the pianoforte. She confesses that here ends the extent of her gentle breeding. She was a naughty child who was forever torturing her parents with countless adventures that they did not deem respectable. Confined to her room on many occasions due to these misadventures, she discovered the quill and its amazing power. Soon, to the dismay of her parents, she rather enjoyed being confined to her room and finished writing her first historical romance (which was a heart-stopping 800 pages long…) at the age of fourteen. She is a two time Golden Heart finalist and the winner of The Reviewer’s Choice Award for Best Sensual HIstorical Romance of the Year.  You can visit her at her website at www.DelilahMarvelle.com or her blog, which explores the naughtier side of history, at www.DelilahMarvelle.blogspot.com.

You can also find Delilah on Facebook, Twitter and Goodreads

FOREVER A LORD Blog Tour Schedule

 01/02 – Book Lovin’ Mamas

01/03 – Books-n-Kisses

01/04 – Reading Between the Wines

01/05 – Ramblings From This Chick

01/07 – Cocktails and Books

01/08 – Bookworm to Bookworm

01/09 – United by Books

01/10 – The Reading Cafe

01/11 – All Things Books

01/12 – Romancing Rakes

01/13 – Pimpin’ Reads

01/14 – Romance Junkies

CONTEST INFO:

 Delilah is giving away a paperback of FOREVER A LORD to one winner at each blog stop.  US ONLY PLEASE

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Kelly’s review of Forever A Lord by Delilah Marvelle

TITLE: Forever A Lord – The Rumor Series #3
AUTHOR: Delilah Marvelle
Characters: Lord Nathaniel James Atwood & Lady Imogene Norwood
PUBLICATION DATE: 12/18/2012
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Lady Imogene Norwood lives a sheltered life of quiet respectability and routine…until she meets the wild and broken Lord Atwood. He is wholly unexpected among London’s elite, and the very shy English rose suddenly realizes that a little chaos might just be what her heart desires.

Lord Nathaniel James Atwood doesn’t believe true love exists. Since scandal tore him away from his family at an early age, he has spent his life fighting for what he wants. That attitude has made him a rising star in bare-knuckle boxing, and now leads him back to London to reclaim the life that was stolen from him. But upon meeting the innocent Imogene, his beliefs are trounced…as guarding his heart against her proves to be the fight of his life.

REVIEW:
As the final book in Delilah Marvelle’s Rumor series Forever a Lord brings us full circle with the story of what happened to Lord Nathaniel Atwood. if you have read the Rumor series today (which I would highly recommend you read this series in order) we all know that Lord Atwood went missing when he was just a young boy. What we didn’t know was the why, how and where he has been. Until now.

Forever a Lord gives us these answers. Yet this story so much more then what just happened to Lord Atwood as a child. Throughout the series we have seen Nathaniel yet never knew he really was. Nathaniel learns a lot about himself in this book and learns that love, trust and forgiveness are very important if one is to ever truly be happy. Lady Norwood is a great fit for Lord Atwood. She is kind, understanding and stands up to Lord Atwood when it is necessary.

I am happy that Atwood finally got his Happily Ever After, but I am sad that this series is over. I am still upset with Delilah for killing off one of my favorite characters early on. But I forgive you D. Over all I really, really enjoyed this series and it is now on my keeper, read over again shelf.

If you have not started the Rumor series I would suggest you start with the Novella Forever Mine and go from there.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

4 Hearts