4 Star – Page 117 – Books-n-Kisses

September 26, 2013September 21, 2013

Kelly & Kimberly review Always On My Mind by Jill Shalvis

TITLE: Always On My Mind
SERIES #: Lucky Harbor #8
CHARACTERS: Jack Harper & Lean Sullivan
AUTHOR: Jill Shalvis
PUBLICATION DATE: Sept. 24, 2013
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
THERE’S NOTHING LIKE THE REAL THING
After dropping out of pastry school and messing up her big break on a reality cooking show, Leah Sullivan needs to accomplish something in her life. But when she returns home to Lucky Harbor, she finds herself distracted by her best friend, Jack Harper. In an effort to cheer up Jack’s ailing mother, Dee, Leah tells a little fib – that she and Jack are more than just friends. Soon pretending to be hot-and-heavy with this hunky firefighter feels too real to handle.

No-strings attachments suit Jack just fine – perfect for keeping the risk of heartbreak away. But as Jack and Leah break every one of their “just friends” rules, he longs to turn their pretend relationship into something permanent. Do best friends know too much about each other to risk falling in love? Or will Jack and Leah discover something new about each other in a little town called Lucky Harbor?

KELLY’s REVIEW:
4.5 Stars Jack & Leah have been the best of friends since they were kids. They did everything together. Leah was there for Jack when his dad died and Jack was there for every time that Leah’s dad mistreated her. Both have loved each other forever, but Leah was scared and ran not only from a poor home life but from her best friend. Now Leah is back in Lucky Harbor, but only for a short time. Just to help her grandma get back on her feet.
When Leah slips up and tells Jack’s mother that they are dating. She only said it to put Jack’s mom’s mind at ease Leah was not prepared for the follow out of a pretend relationship in Lucky Harper. Not only is the whole town talking about their upcoming wedding, but Jack is really mad at her.
Another great Lucky Harbor story. I so very much love my visits to Lucky Harbor. With each trip I fall more and more in love with this town, this series and Jill Shalvis.
I was so happy that I had the opportunity to read Always On My Mind early. The only bad part is that now I have to wait for the next book in the Lucky Harbor series.

KIMBERLY’S REVIEW:
4.5 Stars Oh how I adored this story! I loved Jack. He is so endearing that it is hard not to enjoy his every moment. When he is strong, courageous and determined he is something to behold but when he puts his sweetness to use WATCH OUT! Leah is sweet too. I guess way to describe her is having self-esteem issues but somehow she still manages to stay on her feet and work through it all.

I will be honest. I will a little worried about the bakery and firefighter thing happening in this book. I mean really doesn’t every book have one or both going on? But something about this story pulls you in from moment one. There were so many points where I had to smile and even a couple times of a quick chuckle and there was also a few times of deep sadness for the characters at what they had to endure.

This book is worth the read whether you have read the series or not. I so look forward to the next book in which Ben and Aubrey are featured. Ben is so funny in this story. And trust me no one should miss meeting KEVIN!

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.

September 25, 2013September 22, 2013

Winter Romance Wednesday (Part 2)! Kelly reviews A SEAL Wolf Christmas by Terry Spears

TITLE: A SEAL Wolf Christmas
SERIES #: Heart of the Wolf #12
CHARACTERS: Bjornolf Jorgenson & Anna Johnson
AUTHOR: Terry Spears
PUBLICATION DATE: Sept 24, 2013
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Navy SEAL Bjornolf Jorgenson and undercover operative Anna Johnson have a rocky beginning at their first meeting all to do with pantyhose and tying her to a bed after some heavy-duty sparring, and him declaring she has mighty fine killer knees. Christmas is coming but thoughts of sugar plum fairies and kissing under the mistletoe isn’t something these two gray werewolves have in mind when they’re tasked to be the newlyweds preparing for Christmas while investigating a SEAL’s murder at a Christmas Tree farm.

Neither care about Christmas, sharing gifts, and all the traditions that go along with the season since neither enjoyed the holiday while growing up. But as they battle each other as to what makes for the perfect newly married couple’s first Christmas, they learn that a little Christmas cheer can become so much more, especially if they can take down a SEAL’s killer before they become his next target.

REVIEW:
Bjornolf & Anna have a history that not many know about. Well not much of a history as a fleeting moment of time. But that was enough time for both to realize that there was something more between them. But the job always comes first right?

I enjoyed this book very much even if I could not figure out how to pronounce Bjornolf’s name. Why do authors have to pick the most complicated names on the planet. Anyways. I really enjoyed B & Anna’s story. This was my first trip to the Heart of the Wolf series and I do plan on returning and reading the complete series in the very near future. While part of a series A SEAL Wolf Christmas easily reads as a stand alone book. Although I would have like to see the initial interaction between B & Anna. *wink, wink*

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.

September 25, 2013September 15, 2013

Winter Romance Wednesday! Kimberly reviews Christmas On 4th Street by Susan Mallery

TITLE: Christmas On 4th Street
SERIES #: Fool’s Gold #12.5
CHARACTERS: Noelle & Gabriel
AUTHOR: Susan Mallery
PUBLICATION DATE: 09/24/13
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
There’s nowhere better to spend the holidays than with New York Times bestselling author Susan Mallery in the town of Fool’s Gold, where love is always waiting to be unwrapped… Noelle Perkins just got a second chance at life, and she intends to make the most of every minute. That’s why she ditched a frustrating legal career to open her own store in Fool’s Gold, California. The Christmas Attic celebrates everything that’s magical about her favorite season. Business is booming, and as a bonus, gorgeous army doctor Gabriel Boylan has offered to help out during the holiday rush.

Gabriel’s memories of Christmas past contain more sour grapes than sugar plums, thanks to a drill sergeant father who ran his home like a boot camp. Spending the holidays with his family while he recuperates from injury sounds as appetizing as last year’s eggnog. Still, there are some enjoyable distractions in town, including sunny, sexy Noelle…and the red-hot mistletoe kisses they can’t stop sharing.

Gabriel didn’t think he was made for happily-ever-afters. But when fate hands you a love as sweet and surprising as this, only a fool could refuse.

KIMBERLY’S REVIEW:
5 Stars 6 Hours! 6 Wonderful hours… That is how long it took me to read this book. I could not put it down. There is no better place to be than Fool’s Gold during the holidays or anytime of year really. But there is something about the streets covered in snow with decorations on every business that makes you feel at home there.

We met Noelle in the previous books in the series and while we knew she had a history we hadn’t found out what it was until now. Noelle is a fighter but you wouldn’t know it from the sweetness we have come to know about her. And it takes awhile for Gabriel to see it too. These two are perfect for eachother. There is a chemistry that you feel from the first couple of pages and never seems to stop sizzling.

There is just something about this unbelievable town that makes you want to pack up and move there. Mallery has a way of bringing you home to her fictional town and making you never want to leave.

KELLY’S REVIEW:
4 Stars As always Fool’s Gold is a fun place to visit. While this was not my favorite Fool’s Gold book I have read so far it was still a fun book. Gabriel & Noelle are so sweet together. It started from chapter one and keep going to the end of the book. Which is where I had my only problem. For me the jump from I can’t commit
to the altar was just a little too fast for my liking. But other than that I enjoyed this book. I really loved the snow scene!
If you are a Susan Mallery fan you will love this book. Because how can a trip to Fool’s Gold ever truly be bad?

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

September 23, 2013September 22, 2013

Death of a Schoolgirl Blog Tour Review and Giveaway

Why Jane Eyre Owned a Pencil. Probably Just One….

By Joanna Campbell Slan

Author of Death of a Schoolgirl

My most recent book, Death of a Schoolgirl, picks up where Charlotte Bronte’s original classic, Jane Eyre, left off. Readers who know that I also write two contemporary mystery series, often ask me, “Doesn’t that take a lot of research?”

The short answer is yes.

Although Bronte’s book was published in 1847, the story of the orphaned governess is actually set in the years 1818-1820. In the two centuries that have passed, people haven’t changed much. We still get up in the morning, get dressed, eat breakfast, and go about the business of loving, hating, and tolerating each other. But the world around us, the theatre in which we perform our lives, has changed dramtically, in large part because we enjoy such abundance.

Items we use every day, and discard without a second thought, were precious and hard to come by back in the Regency era. Take, for example, the ubiquitous lead pencil. Since Jane was an amateur artist with some talent for drawing and sketching, we might presume she owned one.

Yes, one.

Instead of buying pencils by the dozen, people in the early 1800s bought them one at a time. Unlike today’s pencils, these writing instruments of the past were neither bright yellow nor hexagonal. Both are modern enhancements. Today’s iconic yellow shaft was a nod to China, home of the best graphite in the world. And it was an American named Ebenezer Wood who crafted the first hexagonal and octagonal shapes to keep pencils from rolling off of desks.

Back then, a pencil didn’t automatically come with an eraser. Up until the year 1770, an author wishing to erase an errant mark grabbed bread crumbs and rubbed them onto her paper, hoping that they would remove the unwanted graphite. As with many inventions, the rubber eraser came about by accident. In this case, a British engineer named Edward Nairne grabbed a wodge of rubber gum and scrubbed away at this paper. Perhaps his sandwich was out of reach.

Some might find delving into ancient history tedious. Indeed, the more I learn, the more I realize how little I know, and so the process of writing can get terribly bogged down. But each exploration into the past leaves me feeling grateful for the many conveniences I enjoy every day. Conveniences I use, but too often take for granted.

About the Author:

Award-winning and National Bestselling author Joanna Campbell Slan is the creator of three mystery series, including the Kiki Lowenstein Mysteries (an Agatha Award Finalist) and a new series featuring Cara Mia Delgatto, a young woman who runs a recycling/repurposing shop.

The first book in Joanna’s historical romance mystery series, The Jane Eyre Chronicles, is Death of a Schoolgirl, winner of the 2013 Daphne du Maurier Award for Literary Excellence. In her past life, Joanna was a television talk show host, an adjunct professor of public relations, a sought-after motivational speaker, and a corporate speechwriter.

Visit Joanna’s website at www.JoannaSlan.com. See all her books at http://tinyurl.com/JoannaSlan. Follow her on Pinterest (www.Pinterest.com/JoannaSlan) Join the conversation at http://tinyurl.com/JCSlan Or communicate directly with her at JCSlan@JoannaSlan.com

Jennifer’s Review of Death of a Schoolgirl

TITLE: Death of a Schoolgirl

SERIES #: The Jane Eyre Chronicles

AUTHOR: Joanna Campbell Slan

PUBLICATION DATE: 08/07/12

ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS: In her classic tale, Charlotte Bronte introduced readers to the strong-willed and intelligent Jane Eyre. Picking up where Bronte left off, Jane’s life has settled into a comfortable pattern: She and her beloved Edward Rochester are married and have an infant son. But Jane soon finds herself in the midst of new challenges and threats to those she loves…

Jane can’t help but fret when a letter arrives from Adele Varens–Rochester’s ward, currently at boarding school–warning that the girl’s life is in jeopardy. Although it means leaving her young son and invalid husband, and despite never having been to a city of any size, Jane feels strongly compelled to go to London to ensure Adele’s safety.

But almost from the beginning, Jane’s travels don’t go as planned–she is knocked about and robbed, and no one believes that the plain, unassuming Jane could indeed by the wife of a gentleman; even the school superintendent takes her for an errant new teacher. But most shocking to Jane is the discovery that Adele’s schoolmate has recently passed away under very suspicious circumstances, yet no one appears overtly concerned. Taking advantage of the situation, Jane decides to pose as the missing instructor—and soon uncovers several unsavory secrets, which may very well make her the killer’s next target…..

REVIEW PROVIDED BY: Jennifer NUMBER OF STARS: Four Stars

REVIEW: Jane Eyre has always been a wonderful book to me and one that I have read, time and time again. Death of a Schoolgirl picks up right after Jane Eyre left off and I was amazed how this book reminded me of visiting an old friend. The story starts with Jane finally settling down with Edward after the traumatic events of Jane Eyre. Edward is recuperating after losing his eye and Jane has been blessed with the birth of their young son, Ned. Adele is off at boarding school and her letters have been very succinct and worrisome since she has made no mention of the new addition to their family. When Adele’s recent letter uncovers a hidden message, Jane and Edward realize that something is wrong with her at school and Jane soon sets off to find answers. Along the way, Jane is robbed and mistaken for the new German teacher at the school which helps Jane to determine exactly what is happening at the school. She soon learns that Adele’s schoolmate has died under suspicious circumstances and Jane must find the culprit before anyone else gets hurt.

I loved this book and I really didn’t want it to end. I loved seeing what happened to Jane and Edward after the events of Jane Eyre and see how much her life has changed after she got married. Jane was always a great character to me and she just has grown into such a strong determined woman after everything that she had been through. I enjoyed the mystery in this book and I’m so glad that this is a start to a new series because I can’t wait to read more about these characters in future books.

Giveaway

I’m excited to give away a copy of Death of a Schoolgirl. This giveaway is for US Residents only. To be entered in the drawing by September 28th, answer me this question in the comments:

Which book do you consider to be a classic?

September 23, 2013September 1, 2013

Kimberly reviews Butterfly Cove by Christina Skye

TITLE: Butterfly Cove
SERIES #: Summer Island #4
CHARACTERS: Olivia & Rafe
AUTHOR: Christina Skye
PUBLICATION DATE: 09/24/13
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Maybe opposites don’t always attract. If they did, architect Olivia Sullivan would have run away with bad boy Rafe Russo when they were teenagers. Instead, Olivia has spent ten years dreaming up designs for a life that hasn’t gone the way she planned. Still reeling from her career’s implosion and her father’s death, Olivia thanks her lucky stars for the support of her three lifelong friends. But this good girl is through sitting on the sidelines. When Rafe returns to the beautiful Oregon coast where they grew up, her former flame ignites a new desire. Now Olivia must take a walk on the wild side to show the new deputy that in matters of love being bad can feel very good.

Freshly back from Afghanistan, rugged ex-Marine and new deputy Rafe is done breaking laws and hearts. He’s always regretted leaving Olivia behind, but now she’s after adventure and he’d better proceed with caution. Because wanting her again might be easy, but fighting for a future together will be his biggest risk yet.

REVIEW:
Another great read by Christina Skye. As the author grows so do her stories. When I found her books she was fun to read but now she brings more of an air of romance and intrigue to her books and they keep getting better every time I read one.

The characters she has of Olivia and Rafe have been through so much in their lives and yet it was each other they most wanted. There are a lot of stories right now about the servicemen coming home from the war in Afghanistan and this is another one and while to be honest there was nothing different about this story than so many others right now there was something that connected between the two characters and I found it a pleasure to read.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

September 22, 2013September 21, 2013

Chili Con Carnage Blog Tour Interview and Giveaway

Today I have Kylie Logan here with us to discuss her new book, Chili Con Carnage, which is the first in a brand new series. Kylie Logan also writes as Casey Daniels for the Pepper Martin series, which is one of my favorite characters. I enjoyed her new character, Maxie, and I know this is a great start to the series.

1. Tell me about your new release.

Chili Con Carnage is book #1 of the new Chili Cook-Off mysteries. It features heroine Maxie Pierce who (thanks to a no-good, two-timin’ creep of a rock guitarist boyfriend) decides that she’s done, done, done with relationships. Besides, Maxie has more important things to think about. Her dad, famous chili spice purveyor Texas Jack Pierce, is missing, and Maxie and her half-sister, Sylvia, have been called in to run his Hot-Cha Chili Seasoning Palace as it makes the rounds on the chili cook-off circuit.

In a perfect world and a perfect family, that might not be a bad thing. But Maxie and Sylvia have hated each other since the day Maxie’s mother stole Jack from Sylvia’s mom. Now, Sylvia handles the day-to-day business of the Palace while Maxie dons a gigantic red chili pepper costume and dances out front as the Chili Chick.

Things get even more complicated when Maxie finds the body of a roadie and Sylvia is arrested for murder. Truth? Maxie actually thinks about letting her half-sister languish in prison. That is, until her better self kicks in and she decides to investigate and find the real killer. Then she can get back to finding her father.

2. Where did you come up with the idea for this series?

I credit my agent, Gail Fortune, for sparking this idea. We were talking and I mentioned to her that my husband had just won a chili cook-off (he’s a great chili cook!). Gail’s reaction was immediate. “Chili?’ she said. “That would be a great idea for a mystery series!”

3. Did you have to do any research for this compared to your other books?

No matter how easy any idea looks to me from the outside, I always have to do plenty of research once I’m writing a book. Chili Con Carnage is set in Taos, New Mexico and I’ve been there so that part was simple. But of course, there’s the whole cooking part of the book and how real chili cook-offs work figured into it, too. A celebrity chef makes an appearance…and I needed to know how cable cooking shows work. And then there are RVs. Maxie and Sylvia have one so they can travel from cook-off to cook-off and I’ll tell you what, I didn’t know a thing about RVs!

4. Which authors do you feel have been a big influence on you as a writer?

There are so many! I’ve always loved the writing of the late, great Elizabeth Peters (and her alter-ego Barbara Michaels). I also enjoy the books of Alan Bradley who writes the Flavia de Luce mysteries. The first-person voice of those books is astonishing and always reminds me how important characterization is to any book. Then, of course, there is the influence of so many writing friends who’ve shared their time and their talents discussing ideas and brainstorming plots. Too many to name!

5. What are you working on now?

At the moment, I’m finishing up book #2 in the Chili Cook-Off series. It’s called “Death by Devil’s Breath” and is about a contest for the world’s hottest chili. That sounds easy but of course in Maxie’s world, nothing is, especially when the cook-off is in Las Vegas and the suspects in a murder are a cast of characters that include a magician, a jazz musician, a diva and a wedding chapel owner!

That’s what I’m working on, but there are other books coming out. In December, “Buttoned Up,” book #4 of my Button Box mystery series and in February, “A Tale of Two Biddies,” book #2 of my League of Literary Ladies mysteries.

6. What was the first book you ever wrote?

I started my career writing historical romance and my first book was “Twilight Secrets,” written under the name of Constance Laux. It’s out of print, but readers can find it on Kindle along with 7 others of my historical romance.

Lightning Round:

Favorite Food?

You know, I actually had to stop and think! I love couscous and veggies of all kinds and really good ribs. Ice cream…yum!

Morning person or Night Owl?

In between! I don’t stay up really late, but I don’t jump out of bed at dawn, either!

Favorite Candy?

Snickers

The one TV show you have to watch every week?

Have to? Not a one! But I do DVR a few and try to keep up: “Bones,” “Ghost Adventures” and “Downton Abbey” of course!

Thank you so much for answering my questions.

Thank you for inviting me, Jennifer! Let me also mention that readers can check out both my websites: www.kylielogan.com and www.caseydaniels.com

About the Author:

Kylie Logan has loved mysteries since she was a kid. Her dad was a Cleveland Police detective and he introduced her to Sherlock Holmes stories and gave her investigating experience when on his days off, they’d pile into the car and hit the streets to look for stolen cars. When he retired from the force, Dad became head of security for the Cleveland Public Library.

Crooks and books! Kylie comes by her love of mysteries honestly.

Kylie began her career writing historical romance and her book, “Devil’s Diamond” was nominated for a RITA award as historical romance of the year by Romance Writers of America. She’s also written contemporary romance (as Connie Lane), young adult horror (as Zoe Daniels and Connie Laux) and she writes the popular Pepper Martin Mysteries as Casey Daniels.

Kylie is currently writing three different mystery series: the Button Box Mysteries (newest book is “Panic Button”), the League of Literary Ladies mysteries (Mayhem at the Orient Express) and now, the Chili Cook-Off mysteries. She can’t pass up an antique shop…there might be buttons in there! She can’t put down a classic book . . . even if she already knows the story. And she can’t say no to a good bowl of chili. Luckily, her husband is the world’s greatest chili maker.

When she’s not writing, she’s usually with her family and their two dogs, Ernie, an adorable Airedale, and Oscar, a rescued Jack Russell who came for a short-term stay and ten years later, is still around. Kylie says that those of you who have ever met/lived with/had dealings with a Russell will certainly understand how knowing him has increased her propensity for murder.

Jennifer’s Review of Chili Con Carnage

TITLE: Chili Con Carnage

SERIES #: A Chili Cook-Off Mystery

CHARACTERS: Maxie Pierce, Sylvia and Nick

AUTHOR: Kylie Logan

PUBLICATION DATE: 10/1/13

ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS: Romance is supposed to be the spice of life. But Maxie Pierce is so done with bad relationships–well, almost. She just has to get rid of the latest loser, Roberto. Besides, she has more important things to worry about. Her daddy, Texas Jack Pierce, king of the chili cook-off circuit, has been missing for nearly six weeks now. In his place, she must team up with her irritating half sister, Sylvia, to promote the family business at the Taos Chili Showdown, to be judged by celebrity chef Carter Donnelly.

But when Maxie discovers Roberto’s body in the chef’s trailer–only hours after publicly breaking up with him while wearing a giant red chili pepper costume–she suddenly finds she’s the one in the spotlight as the police pepper her with questions. Now this Chili Chick needs to kick up the search to catch the real killer and get back to finding her father……

REVIEW PROVIDED BY: Jennifer NUMBER OF STARS: Four Stars

REVIEW: I’m a big fan of Kylie’s other series, the Pepper Martin mysteries and Chili Con Carnage is off to a great start. Maxie Pierce is a cute heroine with a lot of attitude and has had her share of bad relationships. She is working on the chili cook-off circuit with her half-sister, Sylvia, when she discovers the body of Roberto who just happened to fall out of the celebrity chef’s RV. Maxie had one miserable date with Roberto but now she is determined to find the killer because her sister, Sylvia, has been arrested for his murder.

I thought this was a great little mystery and I enjoyed learning about the chili cook-off circuit. I wasn’t sure if I was going to like to Maxie in the beginning but she definitely started to grow on me and I can’t wait to read more about her in future books. There is a possible love interest for Maxie with Nick, the security guard for the chili cook-off so it will be fun to see where that goes. Fun mystery and a great start to the series.

Giveaway

I’m excited to give away a copy of Chili Con Carnage. This giveaway is for US Residents only. To be entered in the drawing by September 28th, answer me this question in the comments:

What is your favorite spicy food?

September 20, 2013September 16, 2013

Kimberly reviews The Night Is Forever by Heather Graham

TITLE: The Night Is Forever
SERIES #: Krewe Of Hunters #11
CHARACTERS: Olivia & Dustin
AUTHOR: Heather Graham
PUBLICATION DATE: 09/24/13
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
What happened here, on a historic ranch outside Nashville, during the Civil War? And what’s happening now?

Olivia Gordon works at the Horse Farm, a facility that assists patients with mental and physical recovery; her specialty is animal therapy. She’s always loved her job, always felt safe…until now.

People are dying, starting with the facility’s founder, whose body is discovered in a ravine on the property-site of a massacre in 1862. And before every death, Liv sees a horse and rider, wearing a soldier’s garb, in the night sky…. Warning? Omen? Or clue?

Liv calls in her cousin Malachi and his Krewe, an FBI unit of paranormal investigators, to discover the truth. New Krewe member Dustin Blake knows they need Liv’s involvement in the case, yet he’s worried about her safety. Because he and Liv quickly become more than colleagues…and he doesn’t want to lose her to the endless night.

REVIEW:
Another great ghost story from Heather Graham. She is the queen of ghostly romance if you ask me. But what i enjoy best about her writing is the history she puts in. By the time you are done with her books you want to visit the site and take a ghost tour yourself and this was not different.

I was unsure about the romance of Dustin and Olivia at first. I think Graham has been putting a bit too much tension (non-sexual) into her main characters lately and this had that too. The characters while attracted to each other didn’t have an immediate spark but as the story moves on of course the spark lights up.

There was a number of ghost in this story which I was glad to see. Again lately Graham has not had as many ghostly encounters in her books.. yes there are ghost just not as many scenes with them but this one had a couple of good ones and I enjoyed that.

If you love a ghost story and a romance then you can not beat the way that Graham brings her stories together.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

September 19, 2013September 8, 2013

Kimberly reviews Midnight Lies by Ella Grace

TITLE: Midnight Lies
SERIES #: Wildefire #2
CHARACTERS: Samantha & Quinn
AUTHOR: Ella Grace
PUBLICATION DATE: 09/24/13
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
The Wilde sisters of Midnight return in this thrilling novel of romantic suspense, perfect for fans of Maya Banks, Allison Brennan, and Lori Foster.

IT’S ALWAYS HOTTER AT MIDNIGHT.
The winds of fate have blown cruelly on a family that once had it all: money, power, prestige. The lives of three beautiful daughters were forever changed when, on a sultry night in Midnight, Alabama, a murder-suicide shattered the Wilde family. The girls grew up to live separate lives but now have returned home, each to face a danger no one can see coming.

Former homecoming queen Samantha surprised everyone by going into law enforcement, but beneath her tough façade lies a wary heart. The tragedy that struck her family is an ever-present reminder that nothing is ever as it seems. When the man she loves, Quinn Braddock, a doctor and Iraq war veteran, is accused of murder, Samantha assumes the worst. Brokenhearted, her confidence shattered, she returns to Midnight. Though exonerated, Quinn still feels the sting of Samantha’s doubt, but he can’t forget his feelings for her and follows her. Soon after his arrival, a shocking murder terrifies the town, and once again, Quinn is under suspicion. This time, Samantha will not turn her back on the man she loves—even if it means walking into a killer’s trap.

REVIEW:
This is the second in the series but it certainly can be read as a stand alone. There is a lot of suspense in the this story but I think most of it is “Will they stop breaking up long enough to stay together?”. There is some actual suspense too and I enjoyed the twist at the end.

Samantha and Quinn are interesting. I am not sure they are my favorite characters (I so enjoyed Zach and Savannah from book 1 must more) but there is something about them. It was just hard to see why they kept fighting to be together. But they did and it made for a great story.

I can’t wait to read Sabrina’s story and I hope it continues with Brody and Logan too. This is just a really enjoyable and engaging read.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

September 18, 2013September 16, 2013

Winter Romance Wednesday! Kimberly reviews The Sugar Cookie Sweetheart Swap by Donna Kauffman

TITLE: The Sugar Cookie Sweetheart Swap
CHARACTERS: Varies By Story
AUTHOR: Kauffman, Angell & Kincaid
PUBLICATION DATE: 09/24/13
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
For friends Clara, Abby and Lily, only one thing is more delicious than the Pine Mountain holiday cookie exchange – finding the right man before they ring in the New Year!
Where There’s Smoke author Donna Kauffman
When flames from a recipe gone disastrously wrong send hunky firefighter Will Mason to pretty Clara Parker’s rescue, the sparks really begin to fly! And once Will gets a taste of Clara, he aches for more than just a little sugar from the famously single food columnist. .
The Gingerbread Man author Kate Angell
Folks have always told fun-loving Abby Denton that her anatomically correct Gingerbread cookies are. . .impressive. But those erotic cookies have nothing on the sexy stranger Abby saves from a snowy country road. Could Lander Reynolds be the Christmas treat she’s truly been longing for?
Sugar And Spice author Kimberly Kincaid
When caterer Lily Callahan goes up against hotshot pastry chef Pete Mancuso in the bake-off of the season, the stakes are high–and scandalously passionate. Will the gorgeous gourmand steal Lily’s heart–and the top prize in the Christmas cookie competition?

REVIEW:
This is a very cute anthology about 3 friends wrapped around cookies and great for the holidays. I was going to review each story separately but to be honest they all flow really well and fit together perfectly. The second story is probably the saddest of the three. And the first by Kauffman was my favorite but I really enjoyed all three stories equally.

The women of this story are strong and independent women and while none of them would mind a relationship it is nothing something they are focusing on which I was glad about. When you’re not looking is when love knocks I guess. The men if this story fall pretty quick but they are all sweet and loving and all very different.

This is a great holiday romance that is not overwhelming to try to read during this busy time of year.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

September 13, 2013September 8, 2013

Kimberly reviews Dead Sexy Dragon by Lolita Lopez

TITLE: Dead Sexy Dragon
SERIES #: Dragon Heat #1
CHARACTERS: Cora & Stig
AUTHOR: Lolita Lopez
PUBLICATION DATE: 08/06/13
ORDER LINKS: Amazon| B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
The last thing dragon shifter Stig Wyvern needs is his dead friend’s kid sister showing up on his doorstep. He’s just minutes away from entering a mating phase. Sharing his isolated house with the young woman he’s desperately lusted after for quite some time is a recipe for disaster.

But Cora Cardenas has nowhere else to go. She’s in deep trouble with some really nasty people and Stig is the only one who can protect her. That he’s deliciously sexy and makes her tingle with the simplest of smiles is just a bonus.

Cora quickly realizes Stig is hiding something from her. To make matters worse, she’s plagued with breathtakingly naughty dreams starring a shadowed lover who bears a startling resemblance to her host. And just what the hell is going on down in the basement at night?

Stig needs to get Cora out of his house but his inner beast has other ideas. He’s found his mate and she’s not going anywhere.

REVIEW:
This is a very short story of only about 70 pages but the story is interesting. I honestly have never read a shape shifter book about a dragon so this was a different kind of story for me and I found I enjoyed it.

The writing is well done and the story is complete. The sex scenes are written well too and not overwritten. I look forward to the next in the series.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

September 12, 2013September 12, 2013

Going Through The Notions Blog Tour and Giveaway

I have the fabulous Cate Price here today to talk about her new book, Going Through The Notions.

1. Tell me about your new release Going Through The Notions.

Daisy Buchanan is a former history teacher who took early retirement and moved with her husband, Joe, from New York to the quaint village of Millbury, PA. While Joe settled happily into country life, Daisy was somewhat restless, until one night she bid on a steamer trunk at a local auction. It turned out to be stuffed with exquisite antique linens and sewing notions, and was the inspiration for her store, Sometimes a Great Notion.

The story opens when Daisy Buchanan sees her best friend, Angus the auctioneer, arrested and charged with murder. One of the auction regulars was bashed in the head with a barn beam, and a collection of valuable fountain pens is also missing. Daisy is sure Angus didn’t do it, but as the evidence mounts against him, his state of mind becomes increasingly fragile. Everyone in town seems convinced of his guilt, and when Daisy discovers that the detective on the case holds a bitter grudge against Angus, she feels as though she’s the only one who can save him.

2. Where did you come up with the idea?

An editor at Berkley Prime Crime came up with the idea for a series based on a vintage sewing notions store. My agent thought that my writing style would be a good fit and recommended me for the job. I was given the guidelines and wrote a proposal consisting of the first three chapters and a synopsis. The editor loved it, I signed a three-book deal, and I was off and running!

3. Did you have to do a lot of research for this book?

I did quite a bit of research on fountain pens, vintage sewing notions, quilts, auction procedures, and Bucks County, PA, where the series is based.

4. Are your characters based on people that you know or did you envision certain actors as you were writing?

I don’t really picture actual people when I write and the characters aren’t based on anyone specific. There are probably traits and quirks from many people I’ve known. Luckily for me, I know some funny characters!

5. What are you working on now?

I’m working on Book Three in the series, which will focus on antique needlework samplers. (Book Two is turned in and awaiting copy edits).

6. Any advice for aspiring writers?

I was fortunate enough to join Romance Writers of America when I first decided to get serious about finishing a book about ten years ago. The local chapters all run writing contests and I received some great feedback which helped improve my work. I also found my first critique partner at a monthly meeting. I belong to Sisters in Crime now too, and I think getting together with other writers can be very inspirational and educational.

I’d also recommend getting into the habit of writing every day, even if you can only spare a few minutes. I used to have the mindset that I couldn’t write unless I had a big block of free time (which didn’t often present itself), but it’s important not to let your story “get cold.” If you touch it every day, it’s so much easier to pick up where you left off.

And of course, read as much as you can. That’s the best teacher of all!

About the Author:

Cate Price was born in England and came to the U.S. when she was sixteen. She is a regular sight on the streets of her home town walking her two amazing rescue dogs, and enjoys gardening, yard sales, and cooking with friends. Her previous (unpublished) books span the genres of romantic comedy, romantic suspense and murder mysteries, and have finaled in numerous contests, including the prestigious Daphne Du Maurier Award for Excellence in Mystery/Suspense. She is a member of Sisters in Crime and Romance Writers of America.

Writing the first book in the Deadly Notions mystery series proved to be rather an expensive project, because while researching auction houses, she also became addicted to bidding on box lots. She is currently hard at work on the next book in the series, A DOLLHOUSE TO DIE FOR.

Website/ Goodreads / Facebook

Jennifer’s Review of Going Through The Notions

TITLE: Going Through The Notions

SERIES #: A Deadly Notions Mystery

CHARACTERS: Daisy Buchanan, Joe and Sarah

AUTHOR: Cate Price

PUBLICATION DATE: 09/03/13

ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS: A retired schoolteacher–and yes, daughter of a Fitzgerald fan–Daisy Buchanan has found her calling in the village of Millbury, Pennsylvania. While her husband endlessly renovates their old house, Daisy happily presides over Sometimes a Great Notion, a quirky shop that sells sewing bits and bobs, antiques and jewelry.

Daisy has her eye on an antique dollhouse and a classic Singer Featherweight at the local auction–until her friend and mentor, auctioneer Angus Backstead, is led away in handcuffs. It appears he bashed in the head of a drinking buddy who stole a set of fancy fountain pens. Daisy’s sure the sprightly old-timer couldn’t have done it. But if she can’t stitch together the bidder truth–and soon–Angus will be going once, going twice…gone forever.

REVIEW PROVIDED BY: Jennifer NUMBER OF STARS: Four Stars

REVIEW: I really enjoyed this mystery involving a quirky cast of characters and which gave me more insight about the world of collectibles. Daisy Buchanan is a retired schoolteacher who has opened up her own business selling antiques and collectibles. She enjoys attending auctions so when she finds out that her good friend is arrested for murder at a local auction, Daisy makes it her mission to find out who the real killer is. Daisy was a fun character because she just seemed so genuine and went out of her way to help people. I also liked the fact that Daisy was married and in a loving relationship compared to other heroines in mystery novels. This small-town mystery was entertaining and I’m looking forward to reading more from Cate Price.

Giveaway

There are two giveaways with this tour, one that is tour-wide and one with each tour stop. I’m excited to give away a copy of Going Through The Notions. This giveaway is for US Residents only. To be entered in the drawing by September 16th, answer me this question in the comments:

Do you collect anything and if so, what?

and to enter the tour-wide giveaway enter the Rafflecopter below:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

September 12, 2013September 8, 2013

Kimberly reviews Run To You by Rachel Gibson

TITLE: Run To You
SERIES: Lovett Texas #4
CHARACTERS: Stella & Beau
AUTHOR: Rachel Gibson
PUBLICATION DATE: 09/24/13
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Rachel Gibson, New York Times bestselling author of Rescue Me, returns to Texas with a tale of what happens when a tough guy meets his match—and falls harder than a ton of red-hot bricks .
There’s nothing like fleeing Miami to ruin a girl’s day.
Stella Leon’s bartending gig was going fine until gorgeous ex-Marine Beau Junger decked her mob-connected boss, spirited her out of the city, and claimed that Stella’s half-sister—the one with the perfect life—sent him. Now Stella has no choice but to go along for the ride . . . and seduce Beau’s military-issue socks off . . .
The Marine Corps was Beau’s escape from his old man’s legacy of naval heroism and serial philandering, but no amount of training could prepare him for the day he looked in the mirror and saw his father staring back. The answer: swear off meaningless sex. Oh, and find a way to make Stella Leon quit being so damn hot . . .

REVIEW:
Very cute short story. The chemistry between Stella and Beau is immediate and fun. While this is part of the Lovett Texas series it can certainly stand alone. There was a bit that didn’t seem finished but it still seemed to work out well. Beau is a great character and while Stella is a mess she is truly fun.

This is a adorable read to have available for one of those rainy days curled up with a cute book.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.