4 Star – Page 85 – Books-n-Kisses

October 30, 2014October 29, 2014

Blog Tour & Giveaway: Black Raven’s Lady by Kathleen Harrington

This exciting conclusion to the popular Highland Lairds Trilogy features a runaway lass and the laird who will do anything to protect her.

Feisty Lady Raine Cameron has been surrounded her whole life by gossip claiming she is not her father’s daughter. Determined to find her true heritage, the dark-haired beauty boards the Black Raven under false pretenses in search of the man who she believes is her father, a man who is also a traitor to Scotland. Only the Black Raven himself stands in her way…

Laird Keir MacNeil has a reputation for being a ruthless and powerful ship captain. On a mission to apprehend Scotland’s most wanted traitor, he never expected to see Raine on his ship. Keir vows to keep Raine out of harm’s way and return her to her family untarnished. But as his lust for her grows, he must choose between honor and the woman he never expected to desire.

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PROLOGUE

June 1504

Archnacarry Manor
Western Highlands

“Come away with me tomorrow, Nina,” the dark-haired man implored. “Meet me here at daybreak, and we’ll flee together. If you love me, dearest, come with me.”

His deep brown eyes filled with tenderness, he drew the beautiful lass close and kissed her tenderly on the forehead, then used the edge of the yellow-and-black tartan pinned to his shoulder to wipe away her tears.

“My father has received an offer of marriage for me from Laird Cameron,” Nina replied, her voice shaking with fright. “Should I run away with you, Torcall, my parents might never forgive me. Perhaps, if we pleaded with them together, they would understand how much in love we are.”

“I can’t wait any longer, dearest,” Torcall said. “The king has pronounced my father a traitor and with him all our clan. I must go and help defend our home and our lands.”

Nina clutched his strong hand in both of hers and brought his fingers to her lips. Her hair, a stunning red-gold, gleamed in the forest’s dappled sunlight. “Oh, Torcall, I do love you so.”

“Don’t be afraid, darling lass,” he told her, his voice ringing with the optimism of youth. “We’ll go to Steòrnabhagh. My father’s castle on the Isle of Lewis is impregnable. We’ll be married there. One day I’ll be chief of Clan MacMurchaidh, Nina, and I will give you all the things I so long to give.”

She smiled, her blue eyes filling once more with tears. “Your love is all I need, my dear, and all I want.”

Torcall hugged her close, then bent his head to place a gentle kiss on her lips. “You’ll meet me here tomorrow, then?” he asked. “You’ll run away with me?”

Nina nodded, a smile curving her lips. “Aye, I’ll flee with you, Torcall. I’ll meet you here, right by this tall pine tree, when the sun rises tomorrow.”
In the faint light of the following morning, the glen where the couple had stood seemed to wait in hushed anticipation of the coming dawn . . .

Her heart pounding, Raine awoke with a start and stared at the bed’s canopy above her head. She’d first had the dream when she was fourteen years old. The year after her father, Gideon Cameron, had been murdered. Raine knew it wasn’t an ordinary dream. ’Twas a vision of her mother and Raine’s natural father.

About the Author:

Kathleen Harrington, winner of the Colorado Romance Writers’ Award of Excellence, has touched the hearts of readers across the country with her sparkling tales of high adventure and unending love. Her historical romances have been finalists for Romance Writers of America’s RITA® Award, the Romantic Times Reviewers’ Choice, Virginia Romance Writers’ HOLT Medallion, and the Phoenix Desert Rose Golden Quill. Her fabulous heroes have garnered the K.I.S.S. (Knight in Shining Silver) Award. She lives in Southern California.

Website/Twitter/Facebook

Jennifer’s Review of Black Raven’s Lady

Review (4 Stars): I have always loved sexy Highlanders and I understood the attraction that Raine had for Keir during the course of this book. Raine is on a mission to learn more about her real father and the only person that can take her to learn the truth is Laird Keir MacNeil. Under false pretenses, she sneaks aboard one of his ships and discovers that the man that Keir is after, just happens to be the same man she is looking for. Hopefully, Raine can find out the truth but being in close quarters with Keir leads to an attraction that neither of them may be able to ignore.

Raine was a great heroine in this story because she was smart, feisty and no one was going to stop her from doing what she wants. She was always attracted to Keir and he was always able to push her buttons. They always seemed to butt heads with one another but that is what made them a great couple. He was able to verbally spar with her and that helped to make this story more exciting.

Keir was the typical sexy alpha male who was used to being in charge of everything in his life. Having Raine on his ship turned his life upside and I could tell that he couldn’t decide whether to kiss Raine or put her over his knee and spank her whenever she stirred up trouble. Black Raven’s Lady was a sexy romance on the high seas that I’m sure will delight historical romance readers. I do recommend reading the first two books in the series first because there was quite a bit of back story about Keir’s brothers that I would have liked to learn more about.

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October 30, 2014October 26, 2014

Natasha reviews Penumbra by Keri Arthur

TITLE: Penumbra
SERIES #: The Spook Squad #3
CHARACTERS: Sam & Gabriel
AUTHOR: Keri Arthur
PUBLICATION DATE: 10/28/14
ORDER LINKS: Amazon| B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Agent Sam Ryan has had enough. She wants out, and she wants out now. She’s sick of putting up with Gabriel’s crappy attitude, sick of seeing nothing but paperwork and the inside off her small office. But most of all, she is sick of feeling lonely. It’s time to take control and get a life outside of work. But Stephan, the man in charge of the SIU, isn’t about to let her go easily. Offered the choice between guarding a clone and probable enemy of the country, or remaining stuck in her shoe box, Sam reluctantly accepts the former, even though she suspects Stephan is using her as bait to draw out the elusive and dangerous Sethanon. Gabriel is relieved to discover he’s finally shaken Sam as a partner, until he learns her new assignment is guarding Wetherton, the clone replacement of a government minister. Both he and Stephan know Wetherton could only have come from one place-Hopeworth. The military base has been involved in DNA experiments for decades and was more than likely the place where Sam was created. But there is a growing likelihood that the military base is also the home of Sethanon himself. Determined to protect her, Gabriel is quickly drawn into the mission. All too soon he discovers the connection between he and Sam is far deeper than anyone could ever have imagined. As the assignment begins to unravel around Sam and her past begins to reveal itself in her dreams, she fights to stay alive because the military wants their creation back. And the only person standing between her and them might well be the enemy of all mankind.

REVIEW: This was the book I’d been waiting for. Finally some answers for Sam about her past! I was very pleased that this book has finally given insight to some of the most burning questions we’ve had regarding Sam’s history and who she really is. This series has a ton of twists and turns as well is interlocking storylines with other events so the characters/bad guys are all really hard to keep straight from book to book. I am happy to report though, that we do get some fairly easy to understand explanations about Sam that will make many things make sense. Who is Joe Black? Will Gabriel ever quit being such a jerk and come to his senses? These are questions we finally get answers to! I know this series was originally set as a trilogy but Arthur could really turn this into a longer series, and I kinda hope she does. There’s a ton of action, deception and intrigue in these books – even though they can sometimes be hard to follow. I highly recommend this series.

Disclaimer:
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

October 29, 2014October 29, 2014

Blog Tour & Giveaway: Lucky Harbor Series by Jill Shalvis

Guest Post – Jill Shalvis’ Lucky Harbor Series Wrap Up

Lucky Harbor started with three estranged sisters inheriting a dilapidated inn on the Pacific Northwest coast. It was supposed to be all one book, in fact. But I never could manage to contain it in one story so I split it into three, one love story for each sister. My goodness that was fun. It was so much fun, I came up with another trilogy idea. Three strangers stuck alone in a storm in a diner with nothing readily available except a chocolate cake. Hello, chocoholics. I thought it would end there but I’ve never been so happy to be wrong. And so, unbelievably, here I am twelve books later, still as much in love with Lucky Harbor as I ever was. Oh the fun I had coming up with characters and figuring out how to torture them.:) Seriously, I have the best job on the planet.

To celebrate the end of the series, today I’m answering some fan questions about Lucky Harbor.

In Always on My Mind, Leah and Jack have known each other for a very, very long time. When they reunite, do you have a favorite scene between the couple?

When Leah tells Jack’s mother that she and Jack are a couple … which is a really big fib.

Is there a character that really snuck up on you and surprised you when they took over the page?

Mysterious Cute Guy from Lucky in Love! He showed up for about a second in Head Over Heels and I didn’t even name him. But then when I was thinking about creating a new hero, he popped back in my head—it turns out his name is Ty and he is a tortured, bad-boy (well, former bad-boy 🙂

Which hero from Lucky Harbor gets the most reader attention? What do they say about him?

Probably Sawyer Thompson from Head Over Heels … he is widely beloved. And sexy as hell, if I say so myself. 🙂

For the next generation of Lucky Harbor residents, do you think the kids from the different couples will fall in love?

Yes! I love this idea. I think Chloe and Sawyer’s kid will end up with one of Jax and Maddie’s kids. Just to drive the dads nuts. Can you imagine Sawyer as the father of a daughter? I feel sorry for the boys who want to date her. 🙂

***

Saying goodbye to Lucky Harbor was far more difficult than I imagined. I mean I thought I was ready to leave but as I wrote this last trilogy, It’s In His Kiss, He’s So Fine, and One In A Million, it really hit me. It was over. I was so sad that I wrote a holiday novella. 🙂 I couldn’t help myself! Merry Christmas, Baby (12/2) is my love letter to the Lucky Harbor readers (and a surprise revisit with one of my fave couples) who enjoyed the series and stuck with me for twelve books. TWELVE books. I still can’t believe it. I’m not sure I’ll ever forget Jax, Ford, Sawyer, Ty, Matt, Josh, Luke, Jack, Ben, Sam, Cole, and Tanner… Sob! But I have plenty of new stories to tell, so no worries. I’m still writing the animal series and for those of you who read and loved Then Came You this past summer, Still The One comes out 4/15. And … drum roll please … I’ll have a brand new series coming out in 2015. The first book is written and I’m keeping it under my hat a little bit longer but let’s just say there’s some hot alpha brothers coming your way soon.

Title: Merry Christmas, Baby

Author: Jill Shalvis

Release Date: December 2, 2014

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Wild child Chloe Thompson can’t believe how much things have changed. She still can’t get enough of her sexy husband Sawyer, but he seems to prefer working to thinking about impending fatherhood. So tonight, a very pregnant Chloe is escaping her troubles at the town Christmas party.

Sheriff Sawyer Thompson hopes surprising Chloe at the party will give him a chance to set things right. But as the snow begins to fall and the wind rages, he wonders whether he can make it back in time. While mother nature conspires to keep Sawyer and Chloe apart, an unexpected arrival will require them to kiss and make up . . . and ring in the happiest holiday Lucky Harbor has ever seen.

B&N/Goodreads

About the Author:

New York Times bestselling author Jill Shalvis lives in a small town in the Sierras full of quirky characters. Any resemblance to the quirky characters in her books is, um, mostly coincidental. Look for Jill’s bestselling, award-winning books wherever romances are sold and visit her website for a complete book list and daily blog detailing her city-girl-living-in-the-mountains adventures.

Website/Twitter/Facebook

As the brains behind wedding site TyingTheKnot.com, Callie sees it all: from the ring to the dress, the smiles . . . to the tears. It’s that last part that keeps her single and not looking. Getting left at the altar will do that to a girl. But when Callie returns to her old hometown, she finds that her sweet high school crush is sexier than ever. And he makes it hard to remember why she’s sworn off love . . .

Tanner is a deep-sea diver with a wild, adrenaline-junkie past-and now his teenage son is back in his life. How can Tanner be a role model when he’s still paying for his own mistakes? It’s hard enough that gorgeous Callie has appeared in town like a beautiful dream, challenging his best-laid plans to keep his heart on lockdown. Though there’s something about being around her again that makes him feel like he can be the man she-and his son-deserve. Little Lucky Harbor holds their past; can it hold a beautiful new future?

Amazon/B&N

Jennifer’s Review of One in a Million

Review (4.5 Stars): It is so sad to say goodbye to a series and I loved my time visiting Lucky Harbor with each and every book in the series. In One in a Million, Callie is back in Lucky Harbor to check on her loving grandmother, Lucille, and spend time focusing on her internet wedding business. She has always had a crush on sexy Tanner, but after her previous relationship fell apart, she isn’t ready to have anyone romantically in her life. Tanner remembers Callie from their high school days and finds himself wanting to spend more time with this sexy yet awkward young woman that he keeps running into at the bakery. Maybe for Callie and Tanner a second chance at love is just what they need if they can just take that leap of faith.

I loved, loved, loved Callie and Tanner. I instantly connected with Callie because she felt that she was awkward and socially inept because I have felt that way several times myself. She was so smart, sweet and funny and I knew that Tanner would fall for her because he needed someone like Callie in his life after everything that he had been through. One in a Million is a fun, sexy romance that is the perfect ending for this wonderful series. I love Ms. Shalvis’s books and I can’t wait to read the next series that she comes out with next.

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October 29, 2014October 26, 2014

Winter Romance Wednesday! Kelly & Kimberly review Yours For Christmas by Susan Mallery

TITLE: Yours for Christmas
SERIES #: Fools Gold #15.5
CHARACTERS: Kenny Scott & Bailey Voss
AUTHOR: Susan Mallery
PUBLICATION DATE: October 28, 2014
ORDER LINKS:Amazon| B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Step out of the winter chill and into the warmth of Fool’s Gold, California, the charming small-town setting for a new holiday novella from New York Times bestselling author Susan Mallery

Famous former NFL stars don’t date single working moms like Bailey Voss. She’ll allow herself to daydream about Kenny Scott’s muscles and killer smile, but wanting more would lead to post-holiday regret. Then Kenny volunteers to run a toy drive with Bailey, and she learns that he’s not just hot…he’s also generous, funny, nice. The whole package—tantalizingly out of reach.

The ache of past loss reminds Kenny why he needs to avoid getting too close to anyone. Especially to a gorgeous redhead and her adorable little girl. Mess it up, and he’d lose them both. Yet Kenny can only resist Bailey for so long. And as festive spirit spreads throughout the town, he’s all wrapped up in Bailey’s sweet, sexy kisses and determined to make this the first of many Christmases together

KELLY’S REVIEW:
4 Hearts As with all novella’s my review will be short and sweet.
Another great trip to the wonderful town of Fool’s Gold, California. I was so excited to read Kenny’s book. The tension between Kenny and Bailey has been growing over the last two book, ever since the Boys of The Score PR firm moved to Fool’s Gold. I really enjoyed Kenny & Bailey’s book. While I am a little sad that Kenny only got a novella I think that Ms. Mallery did a wonderful job with the story. Yes I would have liked more. But I am not sure that there would have been enough for a full length novel.

I am looking forward to the next book in this series!

KIMBERLY’S REVIEW:
4.5 Hearts Fool’s Gold is one of my favorite places to visit and Christmas time makes the visit even sweeter. This romance has been in the making for a long time. The moment Chloe walked up to Kenny he was a goner. It just took him all this time to realize it.

This is a short novella and therein lies the problem I wish this had been longer. I love Bailey and was so thrilled for her to be moving on with her life with Chloe. And Kenny is just a great guy and we have loved him through all the other books and it was sad that we didn’t get more of their romance.

No one should miss any of the books in the Fool’s Gold series but if you haven’t read any I suggest starting with this year’s trilogy of stories so you understand the connection of Bailey, Kenny and Chloe.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley & e-book Harlequin HQN in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

October 28, 2014October 27, 2014

Blog Tour & Giveaway: Christmas at the Cupcake Cafe by Jenny Colgan

Issy Randall, proud owner of The Cupcake Cafe, is in love and couldn’t be happier. Her new business is thriving and she is surrounded by close friends, even if her cupcake colleagues Pearl and Caroline don’t seem quite as upbeat about the upcoming season of snow and merriment. But when her boyfriend, Austin, is scouted for a possible move to New York, Issy is forced to face up to the prospect of a long-distance romance. And when the Christmas rush at the cafe – with its increased demand for her delectable creations – begins to take its toll, Issy has to decide what she holds most dear.

This December, Issy will have to rely on all her reserves of courage, good nature and cinnamon, to make sure everyone has a merry Christmas, one way or another…..

Indulge yourself and your sweet-toothed friends with Jenny Colgan’s new novel, simply bursting with Christmas cupcake recipes and seasonal sugar-fuelled fun.

Amazon/B&N

The Classic Christmas Cake
By Delia Smith

This, with no apologies, is a Christmas cake that has been in print since 1978, has been made and
loved by thousands and is, along with the Traditional Christmas Pudding, one of the most popular recipes
I’ve produced. It is rich, dark and quite moist, so will not suit those who like a crumblier texture. Recently
we took some of these cakes along to book-signing sessions up and down the country and were quite
amazed to see so many people take a mouthful and then buy a book!

1lb (450g) currants

6oz (175g) sultanas

6oz (175g) raisins

2oz (50g) glacé cherries, rinsed, dried and finely
chopped

2oz (50g) mixed candied peel, finely chopped

3 tablespoons brandy, plus extra for ‘feeding’

8oz (225g) plain flour

1/2 level teaspoon salt

1/4 level teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

1/2 level teaspoon ground mixed spice

8oz (225g) unsalted butter

8oz (225g) soft brown sugar

4 large eggs

2oz (50g) almonds, chopped (the skins can be left on)

1 level dessertspoon black treacle

grated zest 1 lemon

grated zest 1 orange

4oz (110g) whole blanched almonds (only if you don’t intend to ice the cake)

You will also need an 8 inch (20cm) round cake tin or a 7 inch (18cm) square tin, greased and lined with silicone paper (baking parchment). Tie a band of brown paper round the outside of the tin for extra protection. You need to begin this cake the night before you want to bake it. All you do is weigh out the dried fruit and mixed peel, place it in a mixing bowl and mix in the brandy as evenly and thoroughly as possible. Cover the bowl with a clean tea cloth and leave the fruit aside to absorb the brandy for 12 hours.

Next day pre-heat the oven to gas mark 1, 275°F (140°C). Then measure out all the rest of the ingredients, ticking them off to make quite sure they’re all there. The treacle will be easier to measure if you remove the lid and place the tin in a small pan of barely simmering water. Now begin
the cake by sifting the flour, salt and spices into a large mixing bowl, lifting the sieve up high to give the flour a good airing. Next, in a separate large mixing bowl, whisk the butter and sugar together until it’s light, pale and fluffy. Now beat the eggs in a separate bowl and add them to the creamed
mixture a tablespoonful at a time; keep the whisk running until all the egg is incorporated. If you add the eggs slowly by degrees like this the mixture won’t curdle. If it does, don’t worry, any cake full of such beautiful things can’t fail to taste good!

When all the egg has been added, fold in the flour and spices, using gentle, folding movements and not beating at all (this is to keep all that precious air in). Now fold in the fruit, peel, chopped nuts and treacle and finally the grated lemon and orange zests. Next, using a large kitchen spoon, transfer the cake mixture into the prepared tin, spread it out evenly with the back of a spoon and, if you don’t intend to ice the cake, lightly drop the whole blanched almonds in circles or squares all over the surface. Finally cover the top of the cake with a double square of silicone paper with a 50p-size hole in the centre (this gives extra protection during the long slow cooking). Bake the cake on the lowest shelf of the oven for 41/2–43/4 hours.

Sometimes it can take up to 1/2–3/4 hour longer than this, but in any case don’t look till at least 4 hours have passed. Cool the cake for 30 minutes in the tin, then remove it to a wire rack to finish cooling. When it’s cold, ‘feed’ it –make small holes in the top and base of the cake with a cocktail stick or small skewer, then spoon over a few teaspoons of brandy, wrap it in double silicone paper secured with an elastic band and either wrap again in foil or store in an airtight container. You can now feed it at odd intervals until you need to ice or eat it.

About the Author:

Jenny Colgan is the author of numerous bestselling novels, including Christmas at the Cupcake Café and The Loveliest Chocolate Shop in Paris, which are also published by Sphere. Meet Me at the Cupcake Café won the 2012 Melissa Nathan Award for Comedy Romance and was a Sunday Times Top Ten bestseller, as was Welcome to Rosie Hopkins’ Sweetshop of Dreams, which won the RNA Romantic Novel of the Year Award 2013. Jenny is married with three children and lives in London and France.

Website/Twitter/Facebook

Jennifer’s Review of Christmas at the Cupcake Cafe

Review (4 Stars): I really enjoyed Christmas at the Cupcake Cafe and this is the perfect little romance for the holiday season. Issy Randall is the owner of the Cupcake Cafe and things have been going well for her in both her personal and professional life. Issy’s boyfriend, Austin, is away in New York on business and she has been making preparations for the busy holiday season, waiting for his return home. Austin has the opportunity of a lifetime when he is offered a position in New York and Issy must now choose between starting somewhere new or saying goodbye to the man who has made such a difference in her life.

I liked Issy and I’m so glad that things were going well for her after the first book, Meet Me at The Cupcake Cafe. She was a very sweet and fun character and spending time with her was like spending time with a good friend. This is a great book for the holiday season but I would recommend reading the first book before starting Christmas at the Cupcake Cafe because you get to meet and enjoy these characters from the very beginning of their journey.

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October 27, 2014October 26, 2014

Blog Tour & Giveaway: Silent Night by C.J. Kyle

Christmas, Tennessee, is a town where no one locks their doors and the worst crime is a stolen bicycle. Until the night blood is found…but there’s no body.

Police Chief Tucker Ambrose hopes it’s just a prank, but his years as a cop in Chicago tell him different. Then a body is discovered in the middle of the woods, staged with a bible, a crucifix, and a rosary… and Tucker knows something dark and sinister has arrived in his town.

Miranda Harley knows exactly what’s going on. In fact, she’s been tracking this serial killer, hoping to gather enough evidence to convict him. Trouble is, no one will believe her, not even the sexy police chief whose heated gazes promise nights of sin. But when Miranda falls into the crosshairs of a psychopath, Tucker must put aside his doubts and race to stop the killer from striking again.

Amazon/B&N

“Just wanted to make sure you were all right. Haven’t seen you in a while.”

“Thank you. I’ve been catching up on some reading.” And spying.

He nodded. “And the heater’s still working?”

He’d been by to fix it when she’d been breaking and entering. She hadn’t thought to thank him yet. And in all honesty, she wasn’t sure she wanted to. She wasn’t keen on the thought of him being in the cabin without her. She had things—especially now—that she certainly didn’t want him to stumble upon. “Sorry I haven’t stopped by to thank you. It’s running fine.”

Small talk. She hated it so much.

“Did you . . . did you want to come in?”

He shook his head. “It’s late. I just wanted to make sure everything was all right.”

A bit of relief mingled with disappointment at his refusal. “It is, thank you. And your hand?”

He held it up and smiled. “Won’t scar. You’re a good nurse.”

God he was cute. And sweet. His continual check-ins with her were beginning to get to her. She was used to cops knocking on her door, but never to ask if she was all right. Never to deliver her soup, or firewood, or . . . a friendly smile.

She was so alone here. Lonely. Tucker was becoming an invaluable friend, even if she hadn’t spent too much time with him.

It was a fragile thing, this friendship. One that was going to shatter if he ever found out what had really brought her here.

“Listen,” she heard herself say. “Tomorrow’s Saturday. If you don’t have to go in early, you could stop by? I have some eggs and bacon. . . I make a mean omelet. If you want to, I mean. It’s okay if you don’t.”

She was rambling like a buffoon. Why hadn’t her college offered a class in social interaction along with proper bedside manner?

“Sorry. Just wanted . . . didn’t mean to put you on the spot . . . you know, forget about it. I’m sure you have—“

“Are you always this nervous when you invite someone to breakfast?”

“Yeah. No. I mean I don’t—“

His rich laughter shut her up. She was making an ass of herself trying to do something nice to thank him for the meals, heater repair, and daily firewood delivery.

“I really wish I could take you up on your offer but I have an early shift. Rain check?”

“Yeah, sure. Anytime.”

“Good night, then.”

He was halfway back to his house before she closed the door and returned to her computer. She studied the screen, trying to focus on the grainy images and not on the rejection burning in her belly or the sadness it evoked. Tucker had a life. She couldn’t expect him to spend all his free time with her. He had to work. She shouldn’t take it personally.

But as loneliness settled around her, she took it very personally. Cursing, she stood and plucked the small Christmas tree from the table by the window and shoved it in the closet. She didn’t need any more reminders of just how alone she truly was.

About the Author:

C.J. Kyle lives in Florida, where the weather is as bipolar as her characters sometimes turn out to be. Besides partaking in all things Jeep-related, she is an avid reader of most genres, loves cooking, watching sports, and thrives on being a wife and mother. She also classifies herself as a geek and nerd, enjoying gaming while thinking about the next scene she has to write. She loves to hear from her readers and can be found on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest and more.

Jennifer’s Review of Silent Night

Review (4 Stars): This was such a creepy and suspenseful novel for me. The action started immediately from the first page and wouldn’t let go until the very end. Christmas, Tennessee, is a quiet little town where people don’t lock their doors at night and crime is nothing more than a missing bicycle or two. Chief Tucker Ambrose has thought he has left the horrors of the big city behind him until he finds a bloody crime scene in his sleepy town with no body. Afraid that this could be sign of terrible things to come, Tucker investigates and discovers a body staged in a religious scene with no clues to the killer. Miranda Harley has been hunting a serial killer for a long time and her investigation has brought her to Christmas to capture the man that she believes is behind it all. Tucker and Miranda join forces and are on a race against time to prevent a serial killer from adding more victims to their deadly list.

I have to add C.J. Kyle to my list of mystery authors to read from now on. Silent Night was a suspenseful thrill ride with engaging characters and a serial killer that will keep you up at night. I liked the relationship between Tucker and Miranda and trying to figure out how Miranda played into the murder investigation. I knew that she was hiding a few things and couldn’t wait to discover the real reasons as to why she made her way to Christmas. Well-written mystery that you should only read with the lights on.

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October 27, 2014October 26, 2014

Kimberly reviews Unleashed by Rachel Lacey

TITLE: Unleashed
SERIES #: Love To The Rescue #1
CHARACTERS: Main Characters
AUTHOR: Rachel Lacey
PUBLICATION DATE: 10/28/14
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
What happens when you find the right one at the wrong time?

Cara Medlen has a serious case of animal attraction. And it’s not because of all the foster dogs she’s rescued. She’s got it bad for her incredibly sexy neighbor. Her one rule: Don’t get attached. It’s served her well with the dogs she’s given to good homes and the children she’s nannied. Yet the temptation of Matt’s sexy smile might just convince her that some rules are made to be broken.

Matt Dumont doesn’t need his skills as a private investigator to detect disaster on the horizon. Cara is everything he thought he’d never find-gorgeous, funny, and caring. But there’s no way he can start a relationship just as he’s about to move to another state. Talk about bad timing. As their attraction sizzles too hot to deny, they’ll have to make a decision: forget the consequences and let loose, or forget each other and let go..

REVIEW:
I have to say that I am pleasantly surprised at this story. I wasn’t sure how it would be since I have never read this author before but it is really sweet and a really good read. Cara is someone you want to be friends with, she loves animals and would give the shirt off her back for the people and animals she cares about but she also has a past that is stopping her from moving forward. She had cancer as a teenager and is waiting for the 10 year mark before beginning to have a life (This is not a spoiler… it is said pretty quickly in the story). But even when you are waiting to get one… life happens. Matt is a PI who is getting ready to uproot the life he has but Cara comes into it and changes everything for him. He is a sweet romantic type of guy. He doesn’t put off the alpha male feel but he is an all around good guy and someone you want to fall in love with.

I enjoyed the connection of the characters. I enjoyed the background characters as well. And I really enjoyed the dogs. While not given personalities like in some books they do have a major role in the story. If you are a fan of contemporary romance then you will enjoy this book. While it doesn’t shove it down the readers throat the book does remind you that you need to live your life. You never know what will happen and it is better to have lived and loved… and read.

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

October 27, 2014October 26, 2014

Natasha reviews Gone To Her Grave by Melinda Leigh

TITLE: Gone to Her Grave
SERIES #: Rogue River Novella #2
CHARACTERS: Seth Harding & Carly Taylor
AUTHOR: Melinda Leigh
PUBLICATION DATE: October 21, 2014
ORDER LINKS: Amazon| B&N (coming soon)

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
In Solitude, Oregon, everyone has secrets…and some will kill to keep them.

When she believes a teen is falsely accused of drug dealing, social worker Carly Taylor takes on a high-risk case and her estranged husband—the detective in charge of the investigation—to prove the boy innocent. A deadly new designer drug has taken hold of her small rural hometown of Solitude, Oregon, and Carly is determined to find the real dealer and clear the teen’s name. But the deeper she digs into the case, the more danger she unearths, until someone decides it’s time for Carly to move on…permanently.

Investigator Seth Harding knows he can’t stop his wife when she has a child to protect. But he risks any chance of reconciliation with Carly if he can’t learn to accept her dangerous job. When a drug dealer decides Carly is getting too close, will Seth lose her altogether?

A pulse-pounding Rogue River novella, Gone to Her Grave is the second exciting addition to the new romantic suspense series from Melinda Leigh and Kendra Elliot.

REVIEW:
This is the second book in this novella series by Melinda Leigh and Kendra Elliot. I was pulled into this series with book one and was super excited about the next installment. Melinda did not disappoint. These stories take place in the town of Solitude – which for a small town has a lot of bad asshole people in it. This story line focused on Carly and Seth who are a married couple that is currently separated. I wish I got to see a little more interaction between the two of them. We haven’t seen them as a couple yet and I want a little more history between them so I could understand their current situation fully. That said, we get bits and pieces on their situation and the problems they face. I’m really rooting for them and hope that they find a way beyond their demons. Carly is a strong female character, a bit stubborn but proud and capable. Seth is a manly man who is struggling with his wife’s aspirations, but he’s lovable. This story was fast paced and added a new layer into this town of secrets. I’m very excited for book 3!

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

October 25, 2014October 24, 2014

Blog Tour & Giveaway: Loop by Karen Akins

At a school where Quantum Paradox 101 is a required course and history field trips are literal, sixteen year-old time traveler Bree Bennis excels…at screwing up.

After Bree botches a solo midterm to the 21st century by accidentally taking a boy hostage (a teensy snafu), she stands to lose her scholarship. But when Bree sneaks back to talk the kid into keeping his yap shut, she doesn’t go back far enough. The boy, Finn, now three years older and hot as a solar flare, is convinced he’s in love with Bree, or rather, a future version of her that doesn’t think he’s a complete pain in the arse. To make matters worse, she inadvertently transports him back to the 23rd century with her.

Once home, Bree discovers that a recent rash of accidents at her school are anything but accidental. Someone is attacking time travelers. As Bree and her temporal tagalong uncover seemingly unconnected clues—a broken bracelet, a missing data file, the art heist of the millennium—that lead to the person responsible, she alone has the knowledge to piece the puzzle together. Knowledge only one other person has. Her future self.

But when those closest to her become the next victims, Bree realizes the attacker is willing to do anything to stop her. In the past, present, or future.

Amazon/B&N

About the Author:

Karen Akins lives in the MidSouth where she writes humorous, light YA sci-fi. When not writing or reading, she loves lightsaber dueling with her two sons and forcing her husband to watch BBC shows with her.

Website/Twitter/Facebook

Jennifer’s Review of Loop

Review (4 Stars): This book was an interesting premise for me and I really enjoyed the characters even though there were times that Bree got a little on my nerves. Bree goes back in time as part of her midterm exam but things don’t go the way that she planned and she has to go back to make things right. But when she goes back a second time, she learns that she had already been again and now her life may be in jeopardy because of what her future self knows.

I absolutely adored Finn and how he was doing whatever he could to protect Bree from the person that was trying to hurt them. No questions asked, he was the perfect boyfriend even when Bree was doing her best to try to push him away from her. I loved the mystery aspect of Loop and was trying to figure out what had really happened to Bree’s mom and what secrets she was supposed to discover that had put her life in such peril. Looking forward to reading the next book, Twist, to see how this story continues.

Giveaway

I’m excited to give away a copy of Loop. This giveaway is for US Residents only. To be entered in the drawing by October 31st, answer me this question in the comments:

What is your favorite time travel romance?

October 24, 2014October 23, 2014

Blog Tour & Giveaway: What A Wallflower Wants by Maya Rodale

In the third novel in Maya Rodale’s charming Wallflower series, London’s Least Likely to Be Caught in a Compromising Position finds temptation in a devilishly handsome stranger . . .

Miss Prudence Merryweather Payton has a secret.

Everyone knows that she’s the only graduate from her finishing school to remain unwed on her fourth season-but no one knows why. With her romantic illusions shattered after being compromised against her will, Prudence accepts a proposal even though her betrothed is not exactly a knight in shining armor. When he cowardly pushes her out of their stagecoach to divert a highwayman, she vows never to trust another man again.

John Roark, Viscount Castleton, is nobody’s hero.

He’s a blue-eyed charmer with a mysterious past and ambitious plans for his future-that do not include a wife. When he finds himself stranded at a country inn with a captivating young woman, a delicate dance of seduction ensues. He knows he should keep his distance. And he definitely shouldn’t start falling in love with her.

When Prudence’s dark past comes back to haunt her, John must protect her-even though he risks revealing his own secrets that could destroy his future.

Amazon/B&N

With her back against the wall where that hurtful thing had just happened, Prue finally let her knees give out. She slid down to sit on the floor, knees up against her chest. Sobs were stuck in her throat. What had just happened? Snatches of it flashed across her brain, hurting her anew. She thought she might be sick. Then she felt the stickiness between her legs and remembered and then she was sick, right on the floor in Lord and Lady Blackburn’s corridor. Faintly, she heard the sounds of the orchestra and the voices of hundreds of the haute ton chattering and laughing as if Prudence’s innocence hadn’t just been stolen from her. She did her best to stitch together the events of the evening, trying to understand how this bad thing had happened. To her. How could this have happened to her? Ladies did not refuse invitations to dance and Prudence had been raised to be a proper lady. When Lord Dudley invited her to waltz, she had no choice but to accept. It was the height of bad manners to refuse a man. People would talk and say cruel things about her if she did (who does that Miss Payton think she is?). Dudley would be angry, and embarrassed and might spread vicious rumors about her, which would devastate her already dim marital prospects. Rumors alone could wreck a girl’s reputation. Then no one would ask her to dance and she would become a dried up old spinster, which, up until an hour ago, was the worst fate she could imagine. Besides, a few weeks into their first season and it was becoming swiftly apparent that she, Emma and Olivia would not be taking the ton by storm as planned. Instead, they languished with the other wallflowers. The romances they had hoped for did not materialize. She was in no position to refuse an invitation to dance.

About the Author:

Maya Rodale began reading romance novels in college at her mother’s insistence and it wasn’t long before she was writing her own. Maya is now the author of multiple Regency historical romances. She lives in New York City with her darling dog and a rogue of her own.

Website/Twitter/Facebook

Jennifer’s Review of What A Wallflower Wants

Review (4.75 Stars): In What A Wallflower Wants, Prudence Merryweather Payton has been hiding a devastating secret that has prevented her from finding happiness because she believes that she doesn’t deserve it. She has decided to marry a man that doesn’t love her but when he pushes her out of a carriage to stop a robbery one night, she promises herself to never trust another man. With nowhere else to go, she travels by foot and discovers a country inn that is the perfect place to rest her weary bones and decide what to do next. There she meets dashing John Roark, who has plans of becoming the first manufacturer of a revolutionary new engine and finds herself entertaining the ideas of romance, which she had once thought were too far out of her reach. John is captivated by this mysterious young woman but sees the haunted look in her eyes and gives her the space and patience that she needs to start to trust him. But when Prudence’s past suddenly comes back to haunt her, she is afraid that she will lose her only chance for a future.

I was very impressed with What A Wallflower Wants and it brought tears to my eyes reading about Prudence’s emotional journey dealing with her difficult past. Prue was a victim of sexual assault and she believed that because of that horrible event, she wouldn’t be able to find love since she was no longer considered a “lady.” Victims of sexual assault are forever changed and I couldn’t imagine how Prudence dealt with this all alone and still be the person that she was. Her story broke my heart because I wanted to reach into the book to give her a hug and then break the “Beast’s” neck for what he did to her. She was very brave woman and showed amazing inner strength throughout this book which made me love her all the more.

I was so glad that John walked into her life. He understood exactly what she went through and was so patient and gentle with her because he wanted her to know that she could trust him. He would have done anything to protect her and I was actually cheering for John during one of the scenes in this story where he actually proved that. Prudence deserved a happy ending after everything that she went through and I wish there were more men in the world like John.

What A Wallflower Wants is a captivating romance that will take readers on an emotional journey with these courageous characters. Ms. Rodale did a wonderful job dealing with this dark subject matter and has created a couple that many will fall in love with. I’m sad to see that this is the last book in the Wallflower series but I’m glad that Ms. Rodale saved the best for last.

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October 24, 2014October 17, 2014

Kimberly reviews Personal by Lee Child

TITLE: Personal
SERIES #: Jack Reacher #19
CHARACTERS: Jack Reacher
AUTHOR: Lee Child
PUBLICATION DATE: 09/02/14
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Jack Reacher walks alone. Once a go-to hard man in the US military police, now he’s a drifter of no fixed abode. But the army tracks him down. Because someone has taken a long-range shot at the French president.

Only one man could have done it. And Reacher is the one man who can find him.

This new heartstopping, nailbiting book in Lee Child’s number-one bestselling series takes Reacher across the Atlantic to Paris – and then to London. The stakes have never been higher – because this time, it’s personal.

REVIEW:
Reacher is the modern day Sherlock Holmes. First let me say do NOT judge this series but the movie with Tom Cruise. The books are nothing like the movie was. Reacher is a man of thought. He sees things that others do not and finds the pieces to the puzzle and while looking for one piece he may find a few more and he will figure out how to make them fit. Yes there is some action but that is not what this book/series is about.

If you enjoy a suspenseful book and one that makes you think this is the book/series for you. But I would suggest starting from the beginning so you understand who Reacher is and why he does what he does.

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

October 24, 2014October 17, 2014

Kelly reviews How a White Trash Zombie Got Her Groove Back by Diane Rowland

TITLE: How a White Trash Zombie Got Her Groove Back
SERIES #: White Trash Zombie #4
CHARACTERS: Angel Crawford & Crew (way too many to name)
AUTHOR: Diane Rowland
NARRATOR: Allison McLemore
RUN TIME: 14 Hours & 21 Minutes
PUBLICATION DATE: June 24, 2014
ORDER LINKS: Amazon| B&N |Audible

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Our favorite zombie Angel Crawford has come a long way from her days as a pain-pill-addicted high school dropout with a felony record. After a year highlighted by murder, kidnapping, and the loss of her home, all she wants to do is kick back, relax, and maybe even think about college.

But when key members of the “Zombie Mafia” go missing, she has no choice but to get involved. Angel is certain Saberton Corporation is behind the disappearances, yet she can’t shake the sense that a far deeper conspiracy is at work. With the small band of friends she can trust, Angel strikes out to track down the missing zombies.

But when unexpected danger threatens to destroy her, all the brains and bravado in the world may not be enough to keep her from going to pieces.

REVIEW:
3.34 Hearts I have to say that I am still amazed that I am in love with a Zombie book. Okay I have one other series that is zombified that I love but it is TOTALLY different than the White Trash Zombie series. That being said I love the world that Ms. Rowland has created in this series. Zombies are not the crazy messed up ghouls that you think that the should be (well as long as they are not hunger then you have a mess on your hands and better run).
How a White Trash Zombie Got Her Groove Back was a good book, slow in a few parts and left me with a lot of “Well Craps” and “Now what are they going to do”. This was also a huge growing book for Angel. She really learns a lot about who she is and what she is capable of. But as a note to Ms. Rowland PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE don’t let Angel go down that path (yes, you need to read to find out what I am talking about).
Ms. Rowland throw in a lot of twists and turns in this book that left me with a “Well Crap” I didn’t see that coming. While I was sad about a few events that happened in the beginning I believe now that they are for the best. Gaahhh, I can’t say much more that would be a bit of a possible spoiler. So, I will leave you with this if you are a White Trash Zombie fan, you will enjoy this newest book. If you are new to the series start with book 1 (it is a must).
I can’t wait to see what Ms. Rowland has in store for Angel and her Crew and The Tribe as a whole.

And once again Ms. McLemore does an amazing job narrating this book!!! Seriously I could not image Angel’s voice any other way except by Ms. McLemore!!!! Loved it!!!

Disclaimer:
I purchased this book from Audible and this review is my own opinion and not a paid review.