Kelly reviews Wild Flame by Donna Grant

TITLE: Wild Flame
SERIES #: Chiasson #4
CHARACTERS: Christina Chiasson & Ivy Pierce
AUTHOR: Donna Grant
PUBLICATION DATE: May 18, 2015
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
EVIL’S GRAND SCHEME…

Ivy Pierce has had a harder life than most. She suffered tragedy at a young age then spent the next eleven years in and out of hospitals fighting an illness doctors couldn’t identify while watching her mother make sacrifices to take care of her. When Ivy finally gets better, she resigns herself to the fact that she can either have health or love, always afraid that the illness will return. Ivy never wants to burden anyone again, so she makes sure to keep everyone at arm’s length. That is until Fate intervenes and puts her on a collision course with a gorgeous, charismatic hunter who makes her blood burn and her heart skip a beat whenever he’s near. Her biggest battle, however, may be learning that she’s worth saving.

FATE’S BIGGER PLAN…

Christian Chiasson dreamed of finding his soul mate – until the night his parents died. His father’s bellow of grief that reverberated through the bayou has haunted Christian ever since. To keep his heart safe, Christian is content to let his brothers find romance and continue the family line. Although when Christian crosses paths with a beautiful and brave woman being hunted by minions of the Demon of Souls, he’s drawn to her in a way that cannot be explained. He suddenly finds that he would walk through the fires of Hell if it means she could live. Now that he’s found her, Christian can’t imagine life without her.

REVIEW:
Wild Flame is the fourth book in Ms. Grants Chiasson series. We finally get to see Christian at his best and weakest moments. This was a really fast story. I enjoyed learning more about Christian and why he is the way he is. I can’t really tell you too much because that would give it away. But, do know that we will see a side of him we didn’t know we would ever see.
Ivy is thrust into Christian’s world and she does a great job of accepting all the craziness that follows the Chiasson’s family. Ivy is very brave and fits in perfectly with the Chiasson family. I can’t wait to see what is next.
Bring on Reilly.

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

May 16, 2015May 7, 2015

SINsational Saturday Series: Gini Koch’s Katherine “Kitty” Katt Series

Touched by an Alien

Katherine “Kitty” Katt #1

Marketing manager Katherine “Kitty” Katt had just finished a day on jury duty. When she stepped out of the Pueblo Caliente courthouse, all she was thinking about was the work she had to get caught up on. Then her attention was caught by a fight between a couple that looked like it was about to turn ugly. But ugly didn’t even begin to cover it when the “man” suddenly transformed into a huge, winged monster right out of a grade Z science fiction movie and went on a deadly killing spree. In hindsight, Kitty realized she probably should have panicked and run screaming the way everyone around her was doing. Instead she sprinted into action to take down the alien.

In the middle of all the screeching and the ensuing chaos, a hunk in an Armani suit suddenly appeared beside her, introduced himself as Jeff Martini with “the agency,” and then insisted on leading her to a nearby limo to talk to his “boss.” And that was how Kitty’s new life among the aliens began…Touched by an Alien is the thrilling first installment of the Alien novels.

*****

Alien Tango

Katherine “Kitty” Katt #2

For Alien Super-Being Exterminator Katherine “Kitty” Katt, anti-alien conspiracies, threats from outer space, and a couple of killer alligators are all in a day’s work. It’s been five months since Kitty joined Centaurion Division, working with the aliens from Alpha Centauri. She and Jeff Martini have grown closer and life looks rosy. But when an experimental spacecraft is unexpectedly returned to the Kennedy Space Center, Kitty and the rest of Alpha Team are called on to investigate and are immediately embroiled in life-or-death situations that scream “political conspiracy.”

The team must survive murderous attacks, deal with a mysterious space entity that has seized control of a group of astronauts, and evade a woman who’ll do anything to eliminate the competition when she develops an obsessive crush on Kitty’s old high school boyfriend. And that’s all before the evil masterminds decide Kitty’s extermination is vital…Alien Tango is the thrilling second installment of the Alien series.

*****

Alien in the Family

Katherine “Kitty” Katt #3

“…great fun, with lots of quirky characters, witty dialogue, a bit of romance, some hot sex, and oodles of action.” —Locus

Planning any wedding is hard enough, but Katherine “Kitty” Katt and Jeff Martini have a lot more to worry about than seating arrangements, because multiple inter-stellar invasions, Alpha Team in mortal peril, and inter-alien conspiracies are all on the guest list—and the gifts they’ve brought contain some explosive surprises.

The discovery that Martini is actually a member of the Alpha Centaurion Royal Family brings additional bad news—emissaries are on their way to see if Kitty’s royal bride material. And they’re not the only things coming from the Alpha Centauri system. Amazonian assassins, spies, alien beasties, shape-shifters, and representatives from the Planetary Council, combined with a tabloid reporter who’s a little too on the mark, create a deadly situation for Kitty and the rest of Alpha Team. When the assassins strike far too close to home for anyone’s comfort, Kitty realizes it’s going to come down to more than throwing a bouquet—she’s going to have to face an entire planetary consciousness and dethrone a monarch in order to make it to the church on time…

Alien in the Family is the thrilling third installment of the Alien novels.

*****

Alien Proliferation

Katherine “Kitty” Katt #4

Alien Super-Being Exterminator Kitty Katt is expecting her first baby. But the alien attacks are getting more dangerous, and now Kitty and her Alpha Centaurion husband, Jeff, have to find out who’s behind the conspiracy to kill Kitty’s secret agent mom and what caused Kitty’s transformation into a superhuman-and they’ve got to do it all before the baby shower…

*****

Alien Diplomacy

Katherine “Kitty” Katt #5

Being newlyweds and new parents is challenging enough. But Jeff and Kitty Martini are also giving up their roles as super-being exterminators and Commanders in Centaurion Division while mastering the political landscape as the new heads of Centaurion’s Diplomatic Corps. Enter a shadowy assassination plot and a new set of anti-alien conspirators, and nothing will ever be the same..

*****

Alien vs. Alien

Katherine “Kitty” Katt #6

Jeff and Kitty Katt-Martini and the rest of the American Centaurion Diplomatic Corps are still recovering from their introduction to Washington D.C. politics, parties, and conspiracies. So when compromising pictures arrive, no one’s too surprised. They’re also the least of anyone’s worries.

Evil androids running amok, birds of all kinds and from all places creating havoc, a Senator trapped in an ever-tightening web of intrigue, and escalating international tensions all seem tough but manageable. But the disappearance of Jeff Martini and Charles Reynolds during the International One World Festival signals more than the usual nastiness — and it looks like even ACE can’t help them.

Then new trouble arrives in old packages and even with the best hackers in the world, beings from near and far, the full might of Earth’s military, and the Wonder Twins on their side, Centaurion Division’s outmanned and outgunned.

Now Kitty’s racing against the clock to find not only Jeff and Chuckie, but to keep the peace between Middle Eastern countries, all while searching for the bases of super-soldier operations — to stop them or die trying.

*****

Alien in the House

Katherine “Kitty” Katt #7

Jeff and Kitty Katt-Martini have learned the ins and outs of Washington politics, not to mention how to prevail in intergalactic war and foil dangerous plots. But, in the aftermath of Operation Destruction, the Gower girls’ powers are burned out, the entire A-C population has been “outed” as the aliens living on Earth that they are, and, worst of all, ACE is nowhere to be found.

Then murder and mayhem are served up at an important dinner party at the American Centaurion Embassy, and when the dust settles Alpha Team and the Diplomatic Corps have more problems than just a dead Congressman.

Is there a single criminal mastermind—or multiple enemies—behind all the conspiracies that want Kitty dead and the A-Cs gone or co-opted to become the War Division?

The return of the best assassins in the business, the reappearance of two individuals long-presumed dead, Agent Malcolm Buchanan felled by something no one can identify or cure, and new technology that can block even the most powerful empath on Earth … all of this means the game’s officially afoot.

Then Vance Beaumont comes to Kitty with a wild theory that someone is systematically killing off the House of Representatives…

It’s up to Kitty and the rest of the gang to find out what’s really going on and why. But will they be able to stop the killer or killers before the rest of the U.S. House of Representatives become casualties? And will the replacement Representative for New Mexico’s 2nd District, who happens to be Jeff Martini, be the next to die?

*****

Alien Research

Katherine “Kitty” Katt #8

When rumors of a new super-drug surface, the FBI comes to Jeff and Kitty Katt-Martini for help. It becomes quickly apparent that the drug is merely the tip of a deadly iceberg and a much more insidious plan is underway involving Titan Security, Gaultier Enterprises, and YatesCorp.

As newly discovered A-Cs and hybrids begin to surface, each with expanded and deadly talents, more and more signs point to a new evil genius who’s using the A-Cs and their enemies both as guinea pigs. Then Area 51 and the Dulce Science Center go silent while Alpha Team, Airborne, and most of the worldwide A-C Security team are there for training. And if that’s not bad enough, Centaurion Division is hit with more bad, and deadly, news: Chernobog the Ultimate, isn’t a hacker myth, he’s a real person — and he’s on the bad guys’ side.

Now Kitty and company must find the real Dr. Feelgood and stop him or her before the latest version of Surcenthumain hits the streets and more people they love are harmed, or worse. But when the inconceivable happens, Kitty’s focused on two things only: reviving the ACE entity before their enemies realize Earth’s best protection isn’t actually active…and revenge.

*****

Alien Collective

Katherine “Kitty” Katt #9

Despite not having run for office, nor wanting to remain in office, Representative Jeff Martini is being wooed as the vice presidential running mate for a charismatic senator who seems likely to win the campaign. While the Diplomatic Corps has to deal with the pressures of a political campaign sure to uncover secrets they don’t want shared with the world, Ambassador Kitty Katt-Martini has other worries—handling the reemergence of her most potent nemesis, thought dead and buried.

*****

Universal Alien

Katherine “Kitty” Katt #10

Being the wife of the Vice President isn’t easy. Especially when your talents lie in kicking butt and rocking out . . .

Jeff and Kitty Katt-Martini find out just how easy it is for the wife of the Vice President of the United States to unintentionally insult an ally. Now they have to smooth things over with the Australian Prime Minister, pronto, or risk creating an international incident the worldwide anti-alien coalitions will be able to use to force Jeff to resign and the A-Cs to leave the planet.

But before Kitty can make things worse, a cosmic congruence and a little help from some powerful beings shoves her into another world — one where she’s been married to Charles Reynolds for years and aliens don’t exist. She’s also landed in the middle of a huge conspiracy and is marked for death . . . but at least that’s business as usual.

Kitty’s not the only one confused, because the Kitty from that world has taken her place in this one. Now Alpha Team and the Diplomatic Corps have to make sure that no one spots that there’s been a switch, while keeping World War III from happening. And they have to do so while keeping this new Kitty in line, because she has views about what to do and how to it, and time is running out.

Can both Kittys save their respective days before it’s too late to go home to the universes they belong to? Or will one Kitty decide to keep the other’s life . . . forever?

*****

Alien Separation

Katherine “Kitty” Katt #11

Life’s never easy . . .

The Mastermind has finally been identified, but before Jeff and Kitty Katt-Martini can take him down, they, their daughter Jamie, Charles Reynolds, Paul Gower, Christopher White, and several others are zapped out of their solar system and into another.

Landing in scattered groups on various areas of Beta Eight in the Alpha Centauri system means getting the team back together will be a major issue. But it’s only one of the challenges they’ll face. Kitty and Company have to forge alliances with the wide variety of sentient natives on the planet while plotting to create a civil war and overthrow the king – who just may be a clone of one of their bitterest enemies, Ronaldo Al Dejahl.

Of course, to do this, they have to overcome an assortment of dangerous obstacles, protect a group of refugees, take mind reading lessons, and seek out unexpected new allies as they journey to the Centerpoint of the world.

And once they reach the All Seeing Mountain, new issues and surprises await. Because there’s more than a small war going on – they’re in the midst of the Alpha Centauri Civil War!

*

May 13, 2015May 12, 2015

Gift Ideas for the Book Lover #31

Woohoo! Its the Second Wednesday of the month and that means we’re focusing all Gift Ideas on a Series we LOVE!! This month we’re going to have some fun with Charley Davidson!

Perfect timing too as the next book in the series

EIGHTH GRAVE AFTER DARK by Darynda Jones

releases on May 19, 2015!!

Scroll down below and check out this week’s items and let me know which is your favorite?

Skull Bobby Pin – Hair Accessories – Women’s Jewelry – Handmade – Gift Box Included

By Mancornas

$4.00 (plus S&H)

Skull Bobby Pin

Quick shipping with Delivery Confirmation

100% money back guarantee in service and quality

Beautiful gift box includes

Save 20% when buying more than one by typing BOBBY20 at checkout

Responsive and prompt customer service

5% of purchase donated to the Seattle Humane Society

20% return customer discount

Please contact me if you need more than the quantity listed

*****

Death Before Decaf COFFEE SPOON Stamped Spoon Personalized Spoon Vintage Silver Flatware

By UrbanFunke

$14.99 (plus S&H)

Death Before Decaf.

I am deadly serious when it comes to my coffee. I need my morning joe; it is the first thing in the morning that I do. And.. if you are like me, then this is the spoon for you!

Each letter is hand stamped by me onto an upcycled, vintage silverplated spoon. This particular spoon is from the 1946 Queen Bess series by Oneida, and is rather unique, as it has a slightly different shape than your average teaspoon. It is slightly wider and flared at the base of bowl. It also has a matching flower pattern inlaid into the bowl of the spoon.

These spoons are safe to eat off of, and have been washed prior to packaging and shipping.

Have an idea for a spoon but don’t see it listed? Message me and we can work on getting you a custom order! These spoons are COMPLETELY customizable and can be stamped to say anything you want. Names..dates..funny phrases..the sky is the limit! Actually.. like.. 30 characters is your limit because it’s a fairly small space I have to work with. 🙂

*****
Grim reaper decal sticker

By HouseHoldWords

$5.00 (plus S&H)

4″ X 4″ Grim Reaper vinyl decal

cute for Halloween decor, laptops, car windows and other small items with smooth clean surfaces.

Vinyl Decal Color Chart Choices

*****

Grim Reaper Cookie Cutter

By TopCupcake

$2.50 (plus S&H)

Use this fantastic cutter to make beautiful cookies or to cut fondant accents for cakes and cookies.

Our cutters are very high quality and handmade in the USA !

This cutter will quickly become a favorite!

Cutter measures 4.25 inches.

*****

Grim Reaper Adorable Crocheted Tiny Handmade Goth Halloween Doll Novelty Toy

By RoseKingsCreations

$20.00 (plus S&H)

This little Grim Reaper stands about 4 inches tall and carries his own tiny scythe hand-made of clay. Just right for keeping you company at your desk and would make a great Halloween gift for that lover of all things spooky. Not appropriate for small children.

*****

Coffee Mug, Pink Coffee Mug, Coffee Lover Mug, Coffee Cup, Coffee before Talkie, Coffee Gift, Boss Gift, Coworker Gift, Gift for Coffee Love

By TheCraftyEngineerx

$14.00+ (plus S&H)

I would be happy to put another design on this mug if you specify text, font, and color in the note to seller box. If no notes are left, you will receive the mug shown in the photos.

11 ounce (325 mL) mugs measure 3 3/4″ (9.5 cm) tall and 3 1/8″ (7.9 cm) in diameter (without the handle).

15 ounce (443 mL) mugs measure 4 1/2″ (11.4 cm) tall and 3 1/2″ (8.9 cm) in diameter (without the handle).

*****

Coffee Earrings, Sweet Little Coffeecup Earrings, Coffee Lover Earrings, Handstamped Sterling Silver

By hopeofmyheart

$24.00 (plus S&H)

Sweet little coffeecup dangle earrings, created entirely from sterling silver.

The earrings have a 1/2″ round disc at the bottom, stamped with a custom made coffeecup. It even has a heart to the side and little wisps of steam…….perfect for the coffee lover in your life! The stamping is also filled in in a rich brown color.

The disc hangs from two rings, which add a nice decorative touch to the earrings.

Everything in the earrings is solid sterling silver to ensure no irritation for sensitive ears. The earrings are 1 1/4″ long from top to bottom.

Your earrings are not made until you order them. Everything is stamped individually by hand. Some designs may be stamped deeper than others. This is part of the charm of hand stamping.

*****

fridge magnet: Sarcasm–just one of the many services we provide – 1.5 in (38mm) – funny quotes and humorous sayings

By SurrealMythDesigns

$2.00 (plus S&H)

This is a 1.5 inch (38mm) fridge magnet made on an industrial-grade button machine. The high-resolution image is printed on heavyweight acid-free paper from a commercial color laser printer. Perfect for sticking lists and notes to refrigerators, dry-erase boards, filing cabinets, lockers, metal shelving–the possibilities are endless! (Just don’t stick them to your computer. Hard drives HATE magnets!)

Text: Sarcasm–just one of the many services we provide

*****

Margarita earrings

By inediblejewelry

$28.00 (plus S&H)

A fabulous pair of earrings for the girls’ night out, a backyard barbeque, summer concert, or just to show off your love of frozen drinks!

These tiny lime margaritas feature a lime slice garnish and plenty of very sparkly salt around the rim. The earrings are accented with pale green swarovski crystals for some additional sparkle, and are finished on closed-back ear wires.

The earrings hang from closed back ear wires in your choice of surgical steel (nickel-free) or sterling silver.

** Measurements **

The margaritas are 1/2″ (1cm+) tall, and the earrings fall 1 1/2″ (4cm) from where the wire exits the ear to the end of the glass stem.

*****

Wood Sign – Well Behaved Women Rarely Make History

By simplycutecreations

$14.95 (plus S&H)

This is a wood sign that measures approx. 3.5″ x 14″. It reads: Well Behaved Women Rarely Make History. All signs are handpainted and sealed. These signs make great gifts. Signs are made after ordering. Please allow 3 to 5 business days for your sign to ship.

*****

Chocolate Doesn’t ask silly questions…

By DivineSignsbyJen

$17.00 (plus S&H)

Ever have one of those days? Humor is a great way to handle those kind of days! Chocolate always understands…Right?! Perfect for the chocolate lovers in your life.

This sign is made with thin routed plywood. Hand painted, slightly distressed with vinyl lettering.

Sign comes with command velcro adhesive to hang on any wall. Sign can also rest in an easel, for elegant display. Easel not included.

Sign is made with ivory vinyl lettering that blends well with any of the color options. Sometimes the grain of the wood and imperfections of the wood show through. We don’t try to change this.

All signs are custom and every sign will be unique. We strive to make each sign a beautiful addition to any home decor. If there is a problem with your sign please contact us!

*****

Sarcasm Loading – funny t shirt – unisex men’s women’s sarcastic tshirt – You Choose Color

By TeeRiot

$14.95+ (plus S&H)

*** LIMITED TIME OFFER ***

Buy any 3 shirts, and get a FREE t-shirt!

Simply add 4 shirts (including at least one t-shirt) to your

shopping cart, and apply the coupon code HOORAY at checkout.

$14.95 will be deducted from your total.

Enjoy!

*****

Vintage Lucky Stars Pin Up Gals – If it has Tires or Testicles It’s Gonna Give You Trouble 5×7 Blank Inside

By LuckyStarsRanchTX

$3.00 (plus S&H)

Vintage Lucky Stars Pin Up Gals have a lot to say and ours say it all! “If it has Tires or Testicles It’s Gonna Give You Trouble”

5×7, Blank inside.

*****

I Stopped Fighting My Inner Demons. We’re On The Same Side Now T-shirt. Funny saying tee. Available in Gray or Natural with Black ink.

By CluelessTees

$14.95+ (plus S&H)

I Stopped Fighting My Inner Demons. We’re On The Same Side Now T-shirt. Screen printed on the front of a name brand (Fruit of the Loom, Jerzees or Gildan) heavy cotton T-shirt. Shirt is available in Natural or sports Grey and screen printed with Black ink. Nothing is printed on the back of shirt.

Please take a little extra time and check out our size chart (click on large pic above). We will gladly accept size exchanges, but customer will be responsible for all additional shipping charges. If you are in between sizes, it’s always better to choose the larger size, as even preshrunk cotton will shrink a little.

*****

National Sarcasm Society Like We Need Your Support Adult Hooded Sweatshirt

By BrassPepper

$39.89+ (plus S&H)

“National Sarcasm Society Like We Need Your Support” on a hooded sweatshirt. Unisex style. Sizes in standard mens sizing.

If you like this design, please check my shop for complimentary items: Market Tote, Apron, T-Shirt and matching Coffee Mug. 🙂

FEATURES:

* Vinyl design – holds up wash after wash

* 8.0 oz., 50/50 cotton/polyester

* Reduced pilling and softer air-jet spun yarn

* Double-lined hood with matching drawcord

* 1×1 athletic rib knit cuffs and waistband with spandex

* Front pouch pocket

*****

Jeep Necklace, Silver Jeep Pendant, Silver Jeep Charm Necklace

By MistyMtnShop

$12.00 (plus S&H)

Jeep silver charm necklace is ready to wear on the trail!. Jeep girls will love this (me included *Jeep Wave*)! Charm is silver plated and approx 1 inch in diameter. Necklace will be black leather cord unless specified in options.

If items are no longer available, please contact the seller to request further information.

Click here to see more gift ideas!!

Visit us every Wednesdays for more awesome gift/present ideas for you or the

Book Lover in your life!!!

May 11, 2015May 10, 2015

Blog Tour & Giveaway: The Book Stops Here by Kate Carlisle

Brooklyn Wainwright is thrilled to be appearing on the San Francisco edition of the hit TV show This Old Attic as a rare-book expert and appraiser. Her first subject is a very valuable first-edition copy of the classic children’s story The Secret Garden, which is owned by a flower vendor named Vera.

Once she hears what her book is worth, Vera is eager to have Brooklyn recondition it for resale. But after the episode airs, a furious man viciously accosts Brooklyn, claiming that Vera found the first edition at his garage sale, and he wants it back—or else. Brooklyn is relieved that she’s put The Secret Garden in a safe place, but Randolph Rayburn, the handsome host of This Old Attic, is terrified by the man’s threats. He confides in Brooklyn that he fears he is being stalked. He doesn’t know who might have targeted him, or why.

In the days that follow, several violent incidents occur on the set, and Brooklyn is almost killed, leaving both her and her security expert boyfriend, Derek, shaken. Is someone after Brooklyn and the book? Or has Randolph’s stalker become more desperate? And then Brooklyn visits Vera’s flower shop…and discovers her dead. Is the murderer one of the two obvious suspects, or is something more sinister—even bizarre—going on? Brooklyn had better find the clever killer soon or more than her chance at prime time may be canceled…permanently.

Amazon/B&N

About the Author:

Golden Heart and Daphne du Maurier Award winning author Kate Carlisle spent over twenty years working in television production as an Associate Director for game and variety shows, including The Midnight Special, Solid Gold and The Gong Show. She traveled the world as a Dating Game chaperone and performed strange acts of silliness on The Gong Show. She also studied acting and singing, toiled in vineyards, collected books, joined a commune, sold fried chicken, modeled spring fashions and worked for a cruise ship line, but it was the year she spent in law school that finally drove her to begin writing fiction. It seemed the safest way to kill off her professors. Those professors are breathing easier now that Kate spends most of her time writing near the beach in Southern California where she lives with her perfect husband.

A lifelong love of old books and an appreciation of the art of bookbinding led Kate to create the Bibliophile Mysteries, featuring rare book expert Brooklyn Wainwright, whose bookbinding and restoration skills invariably uncover old secrets, treachery and murder. Kate is a member of Sisters in Crime, Mystery Writers of America, International Thriller Writers and Romance Writers of America. She loves to drink good wine and watch other people cook.

Website/Twitter/Facebook

Jennifer’s Review of The Book Stops Here

Review (5 Stars): Brooklyn finally has one of her dreams come true by being chosen to be the book appraiser for the TV show This Old Attic and one of her first books to appraise just happens to be The Secret Garden. This particular edition is worth a pretty penny and before you know it, Brooklyn is in the middle of danger when the previous owner wants the book back after the episode airs on television and the current owner is found dead in her flower shop. Brooklyn now must find a killer before someone decides to cancel her new television career for good.

The Book Stops Here is an entertaining thrill ride for mystery lovers with complex characters, snappy dialogue and a whodunnit that will keep you on the edge of your seat. I loved seeing Brooklyn in her element discussing books on television and I just thought this mystery was fascinating from beginning to end. This series is absolutely delightful and I’m looking forward to seeing what is up next for Brooklyn.

Giveaway

I’m excited to give away a copy of The Book Stops Here. This giveaway is for US Residents only. To be entered in the drawing by May 18th, please leave me a comment below:

May 11, 2015May 3, 2015

Kimberly reviews A Highlander’s Passion by Vonnie Davis

TITLE: A Highlander’s Passion
SERIES #: Highlander’s Beloved #2
CHARACTERS: Kenzie & Bryce
AUTHOR: Vonnie Davis
PUBLICATION DATE: 04/07/15
ORDER LINKS:Amazon| B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
As a bear-shifter in a pack roaming the Scottish countryside, Bryce Matheson embodies brute force and untamed abandon. As a widower, he’s running scared. When Bryce attempted to open his scarred heart to another, she grew tired of waiting for him to state his intentions, and the unearthly beauty spurned him for someone who wasn’t worthy. But now that fate has conspired to set Kenzie Denune free once again, Bryce vows to finally win her love.

Kenzie is a witch who summons her powers to protect those too weak to care for themselves. After surviving an abusive husband, she swears off men—even men like Bryce, whose iron muscles make her knees weak, and whose piercing eyes fill her with longing. Her life’s purpose is to help others. However, dark forces have different plans for her gifts. To save herself, Kenzie must team up with the shifter who has always stirred her soul—and trust in a passion powerful enough to set her blood aflame.

REVIEW:
4.25 Hearts I so enjoyed this book and love this series. The first in the series was one of my favorite books so I didn’t expect this one to meet up and well it didn’t but it was dang close. There was a bit more humor in the first one but plenty in this one too. Bryce and Kenzie had a relationship in the first one that we knew would end up putting them together. There was really no denying the couple would be the focus of book 2 and rightfully so.

Again Effie is the best. She is a hoot as the saying goes. She makes me smile when I read the words written for her. Colleen is a sweetie too. Her language was a bit too grown up in this story but that was ok too. She is vivacious and adorable. Kenzie well she has been through so much and yet is a strong woman. She still has a sense of humor and still stands up for herself. My heart broke for her sometimes and yet was proud of her at other times. And finally Bryce. Well again he was not as great as Creighton from book 1 but still he has something about him that draws you in.

I can not wait until the next in the series. The only problem? I am not sure if I want the story to be about Ronan or Kendric. Kendric needs his own story even though he is only a cousin and while Ronan is next on the list of brothers for some reason I want his story so badly that I also hope I have to wait so I can enjoy the rest of the series. Nuts huh?

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

May 10, 2015May 9, 2015

Kissin’ the week of May 4th-May 9th Goodbye

05.04.15

Kelly reviews Wayward by Blake Crouch

Blog Tour & Giveaway: Tessa Ever After by Brighton Walsh

Blog Tour & Giveaway: Some Like It Witchy by Heather Blake

05.05.15

Blog Tour & Giveaway: Flourless To Stop Him by Nancy J. Parra

Blog Tour & Giveaway: Carry Me Home by Lia Riley

Jennifer reviews Day Shift by Charlaine Harris

05.06.15

Kelly reviews The Last Town by Blake Crouch

Gift Ideas for the Book Lover #30

Blog Tour & Giveaway: One Foot In The Grape by Carlene O’Neil

05.07.15

Blog Tour & Giveaway: The Harlot Countess by Joanna Shupe

Kimberly reviews Memory Man by David Baldacci

Blog Tour & Giveaway: The Best I Never Had by Loni Flowers

05.08.15

Kelly reviews Way Of The Warrior by 8 Amazing Authors

Way of the Warrior Homecoming Blog Tour + a giveaway

Blog Tour & Giveaway: Fillet Of Murder by Linda Reilly

05.09.15

SINsational Saturday Series

A Wishcraft Mystery Series by Heather Blake

Blog Tour & Giveaway: Upside Down by Lia Riley

May 9, 2015May 9, 2015

Blog Tour & Giveaway: Upside Down by Lia Riley

If you never get lost, you’ll never be found…
Twenty-one-year-old Natalia Stolfi is saying good-bye to the past-and turning her life upside down with a trip to the land down under. For the next six months, she’ll act like a carefree exchange student, not a girl sinking under the weight of painful memories. Everything is going according to plan until she meets a brooding surfer with hypnotic green eyes and the troubling ability to see straight through her act.Bran Lockhart is having the worst year on record. After the girl of his dreams turned into a nightmare, he moved back home to Melbourne to piece his life together. Yet no amount of disappointment could blind him to the pretty California girl who gets past all his defenses. He’s never wanted anyone the way he wants Talia. But when Bran gets a stark reminder of why he stopped believing in love, he and Talia must decide if what they have is once in a lifetime . . . or if they were meant to live a world apart.

Amazon/B&N

*EXCERPT*

“A few meters more, you’re almost there.”
It’s like we’re at the end of some old-school adventure tale, one where the heroes are stoic even as the blizzard rages, avalanches fall, and death hovers like a benevolent ghost.
Well, Bran is the hero.
I’m like one of the minor sidekicks who goes down during some important turning point. My death might even inspire the hero on his journey or teach him a valuable lesson. But at this point in the flick, the minor sidekick should be well and truly dead. Not white-knuckling a column of dolerite rock, thighs gripping the stone like it’s the world’s best lover.
“That’s it, Talia,” Bran’s voice is encouraging. “You’re holding tight, that’s great. Now, I’m going to need you to release your left hand and reach up a few inches to grab the next hold.”
I grit my teeth. The way he talks, you’d think I’m scaling Everest. Or at least Kilimanjaro. Instead—
“’Scuse, us, we’ll be by in a tic. That’s the way, Andy, right around the lady.”
I’m the lady. Andy is a kid who doesn’t look a day over seven who scrambles past me in a flurry of Spider-Man shoes and gap-toothed smiles. His parents bring up the rear, smiling up at their wild monkey child with obvious pride.
And they aren’t the first group to pass me.
Five Swedish women, a couple, and a guy who looked to be in his mid-seventies have also shot past me during the course of the last quarter hour.
The top is so close I can taste it. Bran is being nothing but encouraging, but below me is a twenty-foot drop. Not enough to kill me, unless I fall with some sort of suicidal intent, but enough to make me feel incredibly uneasy about the boulder field.
Bran eases toward me. “Talia, take my hand.”
“Can’t let go.”
“Talia.”
“No.” This is it; this is the reason. Bran isn’t going to admit it here, while I’m bordering on a panic attack on a trail being conquered by elementary school children and senior citizens, but there’s no doubt this is A REASON to lose interest in me. I’m giving him a big capital-lettered reason, but I can’t stop. I physically can’t let go.
“Talia. Take a deep breath.”
“Breath taken.”
“Another.”
“Okay.”
“Give me your hand, no bullshit. I want your fingers in mine. You’ll be safe. I’m going to keep you safe. I need you to trust me.”
Somehow I do it. I give him my fingers. He assists me up. We’re doing this together. My head clears the boulder and I can see the steel marker that identifies the summit ahead. Holy shit, he’s right. I’m going to reach the top.
A few more steps, easy now, and we’re there. The kid in the Spider-Man shoes munches a Vegemite sandwich. I want to scoop him up in a smooshy squeeze. Except his parents would likely object, so I switch gears to give Bran a long and passionate kiss.
“I knew you’d get here,” he says.
“I didn’t.”
He turns me to see the view, his hands tight around my waist. “Your place is here, Captain, in the sun,” he whispers in my ear. “Don’t ever forget that.”

About the Author:

After studying at the University of Montana-Missoula, Lia Riley scoured the world armed only with a backpack, overconfidence and a terrible sense of direction. When not torturing heroes (because c’mon, who doesn’t love a good tortured hero?), Lia herds unruly chickens, camps, beach combs, daydreams about as-of-yet unwritten books, wades through a mile-high TBR pile and schemes yet another trip. She and her family live mostly in Northern California.

Website/Twitter/Facebook

Jennifer’s Review of Upside Down

Review (4 Stars): This book touched me emotionally because when I was about Talia’s age I lost someone very close to me and I understood the pain and the desire to appear normal to everyone around me. Talia has OCD and these daily rituals help her cope with her changing world and meeting Bran pushed her to go outside her comfort zone to experience something absolutely amazing.

Bran was able to accept her at a time when she felt that no one could understand what she was experiencing and he fell in love with the real Talia. He was sweet, charming and dangerously sexy and he definitely could break your heart but in Talia’s case, he wanted to cherish it forever. She was the one for him and her flaws just made him love her all the more.

Upside Down is a touching romance about two lost souls who find love when they least expect it. Talia and Bran were perfect for each other because they were lost when they were on their own but together they finally found a place to call home.

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May 9, 2015May 7, 2015

SINsational Saturday Series: Heather Blake’s A Wishcraft Mystery Series

It Takes a Witch

A Wishcraft Mystery #1

Darcy Merriweather and her sister, Harper, hail from a long line of witches who have the power to grant wishes using spells. They’ve come to Enchanted Village in Salem, Massachusetts, to join the family business, but they soon find themselves knee deep in murder…

Until three weeks ago, Darcy and Harper were working dead-end jobs and trying to put their troubles behind them. Then their aunt Velma delivered a bombshell: They’re actually Wishcrafters – witches with the power to grant wishes with a mere spell. Wanting a fresh start, they head to their aunt’s magic-themed tourist town to master their newfound skills.

But their magic fails them when a wannabe witch turns up dead – strangled with Aunt Ve’s scarf – and Ve’s sweetheart, Sylar, is found looming over the body. Ve is standing by her man, but Darcy overheard Skylar wish that the victim would disappear – forever. With Harper distracted by her handsome new crush, Darcy is determined to sleuth her way to the truth. But it’ll take more than a wish to unravel this mystery.

*****

A Witch Before Dying

A Wishcraft Mystery #2

Darcy Merriweather is Salem, Massachusetts’ newest resident Wishcrafter—a witch who can grant wishes for others. While Darcy isn’t able to grant wishes for herself, she does possess a certain knack for solving problems—including the occasional murder…

When Darcy is hired by Elodie Keaton to clean up her missing mother’s disorderly home, the Wishcrafter is certainly up for the task. After all, the motto of her Aunt Ve’s personal concierge service As You Wish is “No Job Impossible.” But beneath the piles of old newspapers and knickknacks Darcy discovers something much more disturbing—Patrice Keaton’s body.

Darcy’s determined to give Elodie peace of mind by investigating her mother’s disappearance and death. Patrice was last seen over a year ago after a fight with her Charmcrafter boyfriend. Was her murder a crime of passion? Or were Patrice’s troubles caused by the Anicula, a wish-granting amulet? Now Darcy has to not only find a killer, she has to find the Anicula— before the power of ultimate wish fulfillment falls into the wrong hands

*****

The Good the Bad and the Witchy

A Wishcraft Mystery #3

Darcy Merriweather is Enchanted Village’s newest resident Wishcrafter—a witch who can grant wishes for others. But as Darcy prepares a celebration for a magical florist, she discovers that every rose has its thorns…

When magical florist Harriette Harkette decides to throw a lavish eightieth birthday party for herself, she hires Darcy’s Aunt Ve’s personal concierge service, As You Wish, to plan the soiree. But turning eighty isn’t all Harriette is celebrating—the Floracrafter has recently created the midnight black Witching Hour rose, the first all-natural rose of that color.

Darcy works hard on planning an extravagant celebration that will make Harriette feel like the belle of the ball. But when cake delivery boy Michael Healey—a former employee at Harriette’s greenhouse—is found dead, the celebration takes a turn. Now Michael’s ghost has imprinted on Darcy, meaning that they’re bonded until she can untangle the thicket surrounding his murder—and what exactly it has to do with the Witching Hour rose

*****

The Goodbye Witch

A Wishcraft Mystery #4

As Enchanted Village’s resident Wishcrafter, Darcy Merriweather has the power to make other people’s wishes come true, but what she really wishes is that she had the power to uncloak the invisible man who’s stalking her best friend….

Darcy’s closest friend and fellow witch, Starla Sullivan, hoped she’d never see her ex-husband, Kyle, again. Two years ago he tried to kill her, and he has been a fugitive ever since. Now Starla claims to have seen him back in Enchanted Village, but it seems she’s the only one who can see him. To everyone else, her ex is invisible.

Darcy only wishes his motives were as transparent as the rest of him. Since the police can’t arrest someone they can’t see, it’s up to Darcy to find the secret behind Kyle’s latest disappearing act—before he does something they can’t see coming

*****

Some Like It Witchy

A Wishcraft Mystery #5

Wishcrafter Darcy Merriweather can charm desires into reality, but as the national bestselling Wishcraft mysteries continue, she won’t be able to magically avoid trouble when death holds an open house….

The Enchanted Village is abuzz when the old Tavistock house finally goes up for sale. Darcy’s friend Curecrafter Cherise Goodwin is hoping she will have the winning bid on the home, but Darcy can’t shake the feeling that something bad is about to happen—and her magical instincts are usually right.

Sure enough, while Darcy and Cherise are looking at the property, they discover real estate agent Raina Gallagher stone-cold dead on the floor. Clutched in her hand is a gemstone amulet and, on the wall above her, a large red A. While Raina had no shortage of enemies, there’s also a dark legend about the house itself. To track down the killer, Darcy must unlock the secrets of both the deceased and the estate—and she’ll need to act fast, because revenge is a deal that never closes.

May 8, 2015

Blog Tour & Giveaway: Fillet Of Murder by Linda Reilly

Guest Post

by Linda Reilly

It’s all about comfort . . .

What does the expression “comfort food” mean to you? Is it the enticing whiff of a tray of chocolate chip cookies emerging from a warm oven? The aroma of homemade chicken soup simmering in the pot? Or could it be the heady scent of deep-fried goodies fresh from the fryer?

When I was a kid, I was probably one of the pickiest eaters on the planet. (There are those who will tell you I haven’t changed, but don’t listen to them . . . they’re just trouble-makers J) The hit parade of foods I liked consisted of toast with butter, grilled cheese or peanut butter sandwiches,macaroni and cheese, and spaghetti with plain tomato sauce. Oh . . . and chocolate. How I loved my chocolate!I suspect many of my childhood favorites are among yours, too.

So how did I go from turning up my nose at nearly everything to writing a cozy series about an eatery that specializes in delectable, deep-fried fare? It starts, I think, with one basic concept—any food that’s been swirled through batter and fried in sizzling hot oil can’t possibly be anything but scrumptious!

When the Deep Fried series begins, the eatery featured in Fillet of Murder is pretty much a fish and chips shop. Swish a slab of haddock around in batter, plunge it into the deep fry, add some crispy, hand-cut “chips” and a side of tangy coleslaw, and you have yourself oneheckuva delicious meal. But in Fillet of Murder,a happy accident occurs. A common side treat offered in most eateries finds its way into the batter, gets fried up nice and golden, and then gets eaten by an unsuspecting character. His first reaction is horror . . . until he pauses to savor the taste.

With that, the eatery’s menu begins to morph from primarily fish and chips into one that offers avariety of deep-fried side dishes. But it also means that my main character, Talia Marby, has to scramble to dream up some new deep-fried recipes! Guess who has to help her? Yup. Me.

Thinking about all the new recipes sent my brain (and Talia’s!) into overload. But then it occurred to me—I was making it all too complicated. The reality is that you can deep-fry almost anything. I was flipping through TV channels recently, and landed on a show in which entire sticks of butter werebeing dipped in a batter and deep-fried. At first the sheer decadence of it astounded me, but then it struck me . . . gee, I wouldn’t mind trying that. (but not the entire stick . . .)

After a lot of brainstorming, Talia and I came up with some fun, deep-fried side dishes. Deep-fried meatballs drizzled with marinara became one of the first concoctions, along with deep-fried pickle rounds. There are so many more recipes to explore. Gradually we’ve been plumping up the menu, but the possibilities are endless.

So tell me, what are some of your favorite comfort foods?

About the Author:

Raised in a sleepy town in the Berkshires, Linda Reilly has spent the bulk of her career in the field of real estate closings and title examination. It wasn’t until 1995 that her first short mystery, Out of Luck, was accepted for publication by Woman’s World Magazine. Since then she’s had over forty short stories published, including a sprinkling of romances. In 2013 Five Star Publishing released her first full-length mystery, Some Enchanted Murder. Her first mystery in the Deep Fried series, a cozy featuring fry cook Talia Marby, will be released by Berkley Prime Crime in 2015.

Linda lives in New Hampshire with her husband, who affectionately calls her “Nose-in-a-book.”

Website/Facebook

Sometimes in this life, you have to fish or cut bait. After walking away from a miserable job and an even worse boyfriend, Talia Marby has no regrets. She’s returned to her hometown and is happy to help her dear friend Bea Lambert by working at Lambert’s Fish & Chips, a cornerstone of a charming shopping plaza designed to resemble an old English village.

But not all the shop owners are charming. Phil Turnbull has been pestering Bea to sign a petition against a new store opening up, and his constant badgering is enough to make her want to boil him in oil. When Talia and Bea stumble upon Turnbull murdered in his shop, the police suspect Bea. Now it’s up to Talia to fish around for clues and hook the real killer before her friend has to trade serving food for serving time . . .

Amazon/B&N

Jennifer’s Review of Fillet of Murder

Review (4.5 Stars): Loved Fillet of Murder! Talia is a charming and spunky heroine that is just adorable and I love the original idea of having a fish restaurant as the backdrop for this intelligent mystery. Talia must help find the true killer before her beloved friend, Bea, is charged for a murder that she didn’t commit. Fillet of Murder is an fabulous mystery that will delight readers and the yummy recipes will have everyone craving some deep-fried goodness from Lambert’s Fish & Chips. Can’t wait to read the next installment of this entertaining series.

Giveaway

I’m excited to give away a copy of Fillet of Murder. This giveaway is for US Residents only. To be entered in the drawing by May18th, please leave answer Linda’s question above:

May 8, 2015May 4, 2015

Way of the Warrior Homecoming Blog Tour + a giveaway

EIGHT PASSIONATE LOVE STORIES ABOUT AMAZING MILITARY HEROES BY AUTHORS Suzanne Brockmann, Julie Ann Walker, Catherine Mann, Tina Wainscott, Anne Elizabeth, M.L. Buchman, Kate SeRine, Lea Griffith

To honor and empower those who’ve served, all author and publisher proceeds go to the Wounded Warrior Project.

The Wounded Warrior Project was founded in 2002 and provides a wide range of programs and services to veterans and service members who have survived physical or mental injury during their brave service to our nation. Get involved or register for programs and benefits for yourself and your family online at www.woundedwarriorproject.org.

Amazon | Barnes and Noble| iBooks | IndieBound

Suzanne Brockmann on “Home Fire Inferno”

I write about a SEAL team, so my military heroes tend to show up in a rather large group! And although Home Fire Inferno focuses on Navy SEAL Dan Gillman (whose wife, Jenn, is about to have a baby!), you’ll also see quite a bit of Izzy Zanella, along with Mark Jenkins, Jay Lopez, and the inimitable Senior Chief Stan Wolchonok. Readers will also get to meet the SEAL with the face of a serial killer and the intriguing nickname HoboMofo . . . who happens to live with his mother and his ten-year-old daughter. But all the SEALs in this story would be in full agreement that family is the one word answer to the question “What is your military hero/ine most excited about returning to after active duty?”

Honoring love and family is a long-held tradition in the U.S. Navy. A ritual called the First Kiss is still practiced for ships returning to their homeports. (Google “US Navy first kiss tradition” to see pictures that will brighten your day!) All married sailors, officer and enlisted alike, can take part in a lottery in which the winner is the first to disembark, greet, and kiss his or her spouse after many months away from home. It’s a huge deal, with boatloads of ceremony involved. This is the big, bad U.S. Navy, part of the most powerful military force in the world. But everyone—from admirals to seamen recruits—unabashedly recognize that the most important part of their homecoming lies in the arms of the men and women waiting for them.

Julie Ann Walker on “Hot As Hell”

Despite running missions to the ass ends of the earth, Navy SEAL Michael “Mad Dog” Wainwright from Hot as Hell is a family man at heart. Born and raised in Atlantic City, he longs for the sea when he’s conducting sorties in the desert. Hankers for the boardwalk when he’s belly deep in some bog in the jungle. And craves a slice of Tony Bologney’s pizza when he’d eaten one-too-many MREs – meals ready to eat – to count. So when Michael gets time off from missiles and mayhem, you can bet your bottom dollar he races home to be with his two brothers and his mother and father. Together, they make a night of pizza, walks along the boardwalk, salt water taffy, and some tossing of the dice at one of Atlantic City’s seaside casinos. It’s a bit of normalcy in a life that’s otherwise filled by the extraordinary. A bit of fun in a world Michael knows can be full of horror and woe. A bit of life to go along with so much death. Michael “Mad Dog” Wainwright lives for those moments, for those homecomings. They’re what he fights for…

Catherine Mann on “In Plain Sight”

Tech Sergeant Gavin “Bubbles” Novak isn’t known for a sparkling wit, but his steely eyed focus on the job has made him the go-to guy in the most stressful of pararescue missions. Until a fateful military mission leaves him blind and ends his Air Force career. With nowhere else to go, he returns to his small Kentucky hometown with his seeing-eye dog and takes a job as a 9-1-1 operator. His first day on the job brings a voice from the past, the only woman who has ever blasted through that tough shell to reach his soul – his high school sweetheart Stacie Curry. She’s being stalked by her abusive ex-husband and he’s broken into her home.

Stacie Curry thought she made the safe choice in marrying the hometown boy rather than leaving with brooding outsider Gavin. But her decision has led to a nightmare existence. Since her divorce, she is stalked and terrorized by her ex. When she calls 9-1-1, she’s stunned to hear Gavin’s deep voice on the other end of the line. And when she sees him face to face afterward, she’s shocked – and heartbroken – to learn he’s blind. But she soon finds Gavin will let nothing stand in the way of protecting her.

Learning to overcome the loss of his sight and his Air Force career, Gavin comes to her rescue, protecting her, helping expose her ex … and rekindling their old romance with a blazing-hot flame.

Tina Wainscott on “Beauty and the Marine”

Once the gorgeous golden boy of his small Georgia town, Marine Griff Tate returned home scarred from an explosion in Afghanistan. Now, the only people he sees are his family and the out-of-towners he takes hunting and fishing on their private acreage. Griff thinks that all he wants is to be with his family in the comfort of the woods in which he spent his youth. He can barely look at himself in the mirror—how can he expect a woman to want to wake up to his ugly mug every morning? But even a battle-scarred veteran needs love … even if he doesn’t know it!

Anne Elizabeth on “SEALed with Passion”

Navy SEAL LT Cmdr Jonah Melo has his feet back on American soil. That’s when the itchy-need begins–to get back into the action and/or to fill his time with something useful. Luckily, he’s got an opportunity to jump in and do a building project for the Wounded Warriors. This particular house is special because it’s going to be the home of his long-time friend Kevin Toms. Melo has participated in a lot of builds before, but seeing his buddy in a home that enables his happiness and mobility is going to top the list of experiences. If only he could be as blessed in love as he is in friendship.

M.L. Buchman on “NSDQ”

U.S. Army Captain Lois Lang knows only one thing, flying combat search-and-rescue helicopters into the heart of the battlezone and getting her people back out. And when a CSAR mission gone wrong forces her to make the ultimate sacrifice—for her it isn’t a choice. Her crew and the wounded they’ve recovered always come first.

But the battle that awaits her will test her limits. She can learn to walk again, but she must discover the strength to face what to do when she can’t fly.

Kate SeRine on “Torn”

During his deployment, the thing that kept Joe Dawson going was the thought of returning home to Sadie—his best friend since childhood and the woman he’s been in love with for as long as he can remember. But a mission gone wrong has left him scarred—both inside and out. And when he and Sadie finally share an unexpected moment of passion, Joe has a hard time believing that Sadie could have feelings for the damaged man he has become and worries that her heart is being ruled by pity and not love.

Those doubts are compounded now that he’s set to resume his duty as a deputy sheriff. With his father and three brothers already making names for themselves with successful law enforcement careers, the pressure’s on, leaving Joe torn between honoring the family tradition and leaving behind the only career he’s ever known outside the military.

Lea Griffith on her inspiration for “War Games”

There are many things I could tell you about my stepfather. He married a wonderful woman with a tiny, 6 year old girl from a previous marriage who still wondered why her daddy couldn’t be a daddy—and then he became a stepfather and helped raise her. A strict disciplinarian he nevertheless was giving to a fault. He was a veteran of the Vietnam War. (Side note: he refused to call it a “conflict”. He always said, “When people kill people like we killed people that’s a goddamn war.” Finally, I guess I’d tell you he was one of the most tortured souls I have ever known. In the midst of his torment, the nightmares and flashbacks, the anger that always simmered just below the surface there was a strength to be admired and it is that strength that makes him one of my heroes.

My stepdad was born and raised in a little town called Tennille, Georgia. It’s nothing but country with field after field of corn and cotton and country folk living a simple life. When young men came of age they either went into the family business of cotton and corn or they went into the service and this is the route William Thomas Howell, Jr. took. He entered the Air Force and lost any innocence he might have once had running tactical rescue and recovery missions in Vietnam of which he would say nothing about. I remember asking him what war was like and he refused to answer. Then one day when he was talking about Vietnam—not the war, mind you, but the country itself—I asked him what he missed the most about home when he was “in country”. He smiled and for some reason my gut clenched and I remember wishing I hadn’t asked the question. But then he answered and I had to smile with him. “Lightning bugs,” he said. “Lightning bugs and Coca Cola.”

My stepdad passed away almost nine years ago. He has missed the births of several of his grandchildren and the marriage of one of his children. But in the midst of his loss, he left a legacy that includes perseverance, giving and most of all a love of Coca Cola.

Oh, and the lightning bugs. I cannot forget the tiny bugs with the “lights in their butts”. It seems the smallest bug made a light big enough for my stepdad to yearn for. They make me smile every time spring comes. And yes, because he made me smile with his longing for lightning bugs I taught my girls how to catch them and put them in a mason jar for a little while before you release them. This more than anything else has helped me remember him.

About the authors:

Suzanne Brockmann

Suz Brockmann is the award-winning author of over fifty books, and is widely recognized as one of the leading voices in romantic suspense. Her work has earned her repeated appearances on the New York Times bestseller list, as well as numerous awards, including Romance Writers of America’s #1 Favorite Book of the Year and two RITA awards.

Website: http://www.suzannebrockmann.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SuzanneBrockmannBooks

Twitter: https://twitter.com/SuzBrockmann

Julie Ann Walker

Julie Ann Walker is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of romantic suspense. Her books have been described as “alpha, edgy, and downright hot.” Most days you can find her on her bicycle along the lake shore in Chicago or blasting away at her keyboard, trying to wrangle her capricious imagination into submission.

Website: http://julieannwalker.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jawalkerauthor

Twitter: https://twitter.com/JAWalkerAuthor

Catherine Mann

USA Today bestselling author Catherine Mann specializes in military romances with over 50 books in print. A RITA winner, she has also won the Bookseller’s Best Award. Catherine’s books have been widely released internationally including in Great Britain, Germany, Spain, France, Portugal, Greece, Turkey, Iceland, Australia, and Japan. She lives with her husband, who is a combat veteran and retired Air Force Colonel, near Pensacola in the Florida Panhandle.

Website: http://www.catherinemann.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CatherineMannAuthor

Twitter: https://twitter.com/catherinemann1

Tina Wainscott

Tina Wainscott has always loved the combination of suspenseful chills and romantic thrills. She’s published fifteen romantic suspense novels, as well as ten paranormal romances as Jaime Rush. Losing her nephew, a Marine, in the war made her realize that our military men are really the perfect heroes. Not only during the war but afterward as they try to stitch their lives and souls together once they’re home.

Website: http://tinawainscott.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tinawainscottbooks

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Tina_Wainscott

Anne Elizabeth

New York Times bestselling author Anne Elizabeth is an award-winning romance author and comic creator. With a BS in business and MS in communications from Boston University, she is a regular presenter at conventions as well as a member of The Author’s Guild and Romance Writers of America. Anne lives with her husband, a retired Navy SEAL, in the mountains above San Diego.

Website: http://anneelizabeth.net/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aeauthorfanpage

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AEAnneElizabeth

M.L. Buchman

L. Buchman has over 30 novels in print. His military romantic suspense books have been named Barnes & Noble and NPR “Top 5 of the year” and Booklist “Top 10 of the Year.” He also writes thrillers, fantasy, and science fiction. In addition to his career as a corporate project manager he has: rebuilt and single-handed a fifty-foot sailboat, both flown and jumped out of airplanes, designed and built two houses, and bicycled solo around the world. He is now making his living as a full-time writer on the Oregon Coast with his beloved wife.

Website: http://www.mlbuchman.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mlbuchman

Twitter: https://twitter.com/mlbuchman

Kate SeRine

Kate SeRine (pronounced “serene”) is a hopeless romantic who firmly believes in true love that lasts forever. So it’s no surprise that when she began writing her own stories, Kate vowed her characters would always have a happily ever after. Kate lives in a smallish, quintessentially Midwestern town with her husband and two sons, who share her love of storytelling. She never tires of creating new worlds to share and is even now working on her next project.

Website: http://www.kateserine.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kateserine

Twitter: https://twitter.com/kateserine

Lea Griffith

Lea Griffith began sneaking to read her mother’s romance novels at a young age. She cut her teeth on the greats: McNaught, Woodiwiss, and Garwood. She still consumes every romance book she can put her hands on, but now she writes her own. When not working as a Practice Manager for an Internal Medicine Physician, you’ll find her at her keyboard, writing. She loves romance and nothing is off-limits when it comes to her muse. Lea lives in rural Georgia with her husband, three teenage daughters, two dogs, a cat, and a Betta fish named Coddy George.

Website: http://www.leagriffith.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LeaGriffithWrites

Twitter: https://twitter.com/LeaGriffith

GIVEAWAY TIME!!

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May 8, 2015May 3, 2015

Kelly reviews Way Of The Warrior by 8 Amazing Authors

TITLE: Way of the Warrior
SERIES #: Multiple
CHARACTERS: Many
AUTHOR: Suzanne Brockmann, Julie Ann Walker , Catherine Mann, Tina Wainscott, Anne Elizabeth, M.L. Buchman, Kate SeRine, Lea Griffith
PUBLICATION DATE: May 5, 2015
ORDER LINKS:Amazon| B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
EIGHT PASSIONATE LOVE STORIES ABOUT AMAZING MILITARY HEROES BY BESTSELLING AUTHORS:
Suzanne Brockmann, Julie Ann Walker, Catherine Mann, Tina Wainscott, Anne Elizabeth, M.L. Buchman, Kate SeRine, Lea Griffith
To honor and empower those who’ve served, all author and publisher proceeds go to the Wounded Warrior Project.
The Wounded Warrior Project was founded in 2002 and provides a wide range of programs and services to veterans and service members who have survived physical or mental injury during their brave service to our nation. Get involved or register for programs and benefits for yourself and your family online at www.woundedwarriorproject.org.
“It is a proud privilege to be a soldier.” —George S. Patton Jr.
“We sleep safely at night because rough men stand ready to visit violence on those who would harm us.” —Winston Churchill

REVIEW:
4.5 Hearts
8 amazing authors. 8 amazing stories of love. I will be giving you a very short review of each of the eight books.
Hot as Hell by Julie Ann Walker
Michael “Mad Dog” Wainwright & Harper Searcy find themselves in a life or death situation. But Michael is less worried about the threat and more worried about why Harper is not returning his calls. Love Michael & Harper!! I am so looking forward to Julie Ann’s upcoming new series.
In Plain Sight by Catherine Mann
Gavin Novak & Stacey Currie were high school sweethearts. But as with most high school romances they both moved on. But neither found the life they had with each other. Gavin & Stacey’s story brought tears to my eyes. These two are so awesome. Loved this story!!
Torn by Katie SeRine
Joseph Dawson & Sadie Keaton have been life long friends. But when Joe is almost killed and a stalker is after Sadie will both finally be willing to admit their feels to each other? This story was so fast moving that there was barely any time to breath. Great story.
War Games by Lea Griffith
Anthony “Rook” Granger & Olivia Bentwood find themselves and unlikely pair. One is keeping a promise to a dying brother, the other is try to clear their name. But who can they trust? Other than each other? I want more of this series!!!
Beauty and the Marine by Tina Wainscott
Griff Tate & Kristy Marsden are a very unlikely pair. But Griff can’t say no when a woman is in trouble. This was a twisted story of a relentless stalker who will stop at nothing to get what he wants, mixed with a very sweet love story. Loved it!
NSDQ by ML Buchman
Kendall Clark and Lois Lang. Okay I have to say it “Lois and Clark” “Clark and Lois” So Super!! Sometimes losing what you think matters most opens your eyes to where your true future lays. Loved Kendall & Lois’ story. I hope these two pop up in a future book.
SEALed with Passion by Anne Elizabeth
Jonah Melo & Alisha Winters met 5 years ago and a very short world wind romance then it was all over, Jonah left. But now he is back. But has the damage already been done or can they find their way back? This was a great story and I loved learning more about the Wounded Warrior housing program.
Fire Inferno by Suzanne Brockman
There was a lot that happened in this short story. I believe that this is part of a series, therefore I was a tad bit lost as to who was who and why.

This was a great set of novellas by some great authors. And a great way to bring to light the Wounded Warriors project.

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

May 7, 2015May 6, 2015

Blog Tour & Giveaway: The Best I Never Had by Loni Flowers

New job, new town, new people— new life.

That’s what Olivia Langston needed. At twenty eight, she was given a rare opportunity at an internship in the rolling valleys of Crystal Falls in California wine country, far away from her small town roots in North Carolina. It was an unexpected journey she desperately needed after her ex-husband crushed her.

At DeVine Winery, she expected a fresh start in a new environment to help let go of her past. Instead, she found Daniel Black and a hell of a lot of sexual tension she wasn’t prepared for. He was gorgeous, modestly wealthy, irresistible, and just happened to be part owner of DeVine, one of the largest vineyards in the country.

If only she knew that before she kissed him her first night in town.

Amazon/B&N

When Evelyn disappeared into another room, I pierced Daniel with a hard glare. He’d gotten his wish, to some degree, after all. Dinner had been his idea, and if he couldn’t get me alone for it, then having me at his mother’s house was the next best thing.
“Are you always used to getting your way?”
“Sometimes.”
“Well, this was the last time from me.” I stood up abruptly, the chair legs screeching on the hardwood floor, and hurried to the door. I made it out and halfway down the walkway before Daniel latched onto my wrist and pulled me to a stop.
“Don’t leave like this. Not while you’re angry.”
I snatched my hand from his grasp and spun around. “I’ve told you on several occasions that I won’t get involved with my boss.”
“I’m not your boss, my mother is.”
“That is exactly why it makes you off limits.”
“I’m a thirty-five-year-old grown man. I’m capable of making my own decisions.”
“Then you’ve been around long enough to know when a woman tells you she’s not interested, then she’s not interested.” I took a few steps backwards and found myself between him the water fountain. Taking a step forward, he prevented my retreat and scanned my face with seriousness I hadn’t seen before.
“You can say you’re not interested all you want, but the way those gorgeous eyes follow my movements in the office speak something entirely different.”
“Really? And what exactly do you think my eyes are saying?” I countered. I was out of my league with the snarky comeback. Trying to pretend he didn’t affect me was pointless. But if I could manage to stay strong, he’d give up. Eventually.
“You can’t stop thinking about that night. No matter how hard you try, you can’t ignore what happen and how it made you feel.”
“Well, you need to get your eyes checked then. How it made me feel makes no difference. I have five and half months left in this internship before I move on. Getting caught up in you, or anyone else, isn’t going to do me any favors. I’m over what happened already. It’s about time you get over it too.”
“Is there something wrong with enjoying yourself while you’re here?”
I stared—shocked that he’d consider something so casual. I had no doubt he’d be good in bed, but I wasn’t that type of woman. I didn’t sleep around for the pure enjoyment of it. Sex meant more to me than that. It was special, a one-of-a-kind connection you didn’t find with someone random. It was what I thought I had with my ex-husband.
“No. There’s nothing wrong with being causal if that’s the type of person you are. But I’m not one of those people. And getting into a relationship, of any kind, is so far down on my to-do list, it’s practically nonexistent.” I blew out a heavy breath, relieved to get all of that off my chest, but my breaths were still heavy. My hormones didn’t get the memo my brain sent. He was too close. Smelled delicious. And sexy as hell. “Move so I can go home. Please,” I added.
“Okay, but can you do one thing for me before you go?”
“What?” I put my hand on my hip, annoyed.
“Kiss me again.”

About the Author:

Residing in Eastern North Carolina with her husband, 2 girls, and couch-potato dogs, Loni works a full-time professional job during the day and writes in her free time. She never thought it was possible to have a satisfying writing career, but with the love and support of her family, she’s made it part of her life.
Loni searches for the tiniest speck of romance in any story and is a firm believer in the happily-ever-after’s. She thrives off the sexual tension, and gets a kick out of taking her characters on a roller-coaster ride of drama-filled emotions. A romance that can soothe the soul is her number one priority.

Website/Twitter/Facebook

Jennifer’s Review of The Best I Never Had

Review (4 Stars): I loved Olivia and Daniel together as a couple and he was exactly what she needed in her life. She never planned to kiss him in a bar but that chance meeting turned her life around for the better. Daniel was sweet, charming and very sexy so it was no surprise that Olivia fell for him. The Best I Never Had was such a charming romance that had me believing that things happen for a reason and you can find love when you least expect it. I’m hoping that there are more books in this series because I can’t wait to read more about the characters from the Devine Winery.

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