Books-n-Kisses

May 7, 2015May 3, 2015

Kimberly reviews Memory Man by David Baldacci

TITLE: Memory Man
SERIES #: Amos Decker #1
CHARACTERS: Amos Decker
AUTHOR: David Baldacci
PUBLICATION DATE: 04/21/15
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Amos Decker’s life changed forever–twice.

The first time was on the gridiron. A big, towering athlete, he was the only person from his hometown of Burlington ever to go pro. But his career ended before it had a chance to begin. On his very first play, a violent helmet-to-helmet collision knocked him off the field for good, and left him with an improbable side effect–he can never forget anything.

The second time was at home nearly two decades later. Now a police detective, Decker returned from a stakeout one evening and entered a nightmare–his wife, young daughter, and brother-in-law had been murdered.

His family destroyed, their killer’s identity as mysterious as the motive behind the crime, and unable to forget a single detail from that horrible night, Decker finds his world collapsing around him. He leaves the police force, loses his home, and winds up on the street, taking piecemeal jobs as a private investigator when he can.

But over a year later, a man turns himself in to the police and confesses to the murders. At the same time a horrific event nearly brings Burlington to its knees, and Decker is called back in to help with this investigation. Decker also seizes his chance to learn what really happened to his family that night. To uncover the stunning truth, he must use his remarkable gifts and confront the burdens that go along with them. He must endure the memories he would much rather forget. And he may have to make the ultimate sacrifice.

MEMORY MAN will stay with you long after the turn of the final page.

REVIEW:
In the last few years we have heard about the condition that Decker has a lot. I am sure you heard of the people like Marilu Henner who can remember everything that has ever happened to them. There was even a tv show called Unforgettable that wrapped around the same idea of a cop who can walk into a crime scene and remember every moment and every scene. Well this is on the same concept.

Decker is an interesting character. He is not perfect. Really actually far from it. His gift is really a hard thing for him to live with since his family and friend were murdered. But he is a likeable (sorta) guy. If nothing he is interesting and you want to know more about him.

Baldacci has always had an different way of writing. He pulls you in from page one and this story is no different. I have heard that this story is a stand alone but then I also heard it is the first in the series so to be honest I am not sure but I know that if Baldacci decides to bring Decker back I will be picking up the book.

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

May 7, 2015May 6, 2015

Blog Tour & Giveaway: The Harlot Countess by Joanna Shupe

Lady Hawkins’s debut was something she’d rather forget—along with her first marriage. Today, the political cartoonist is a new woman. A thoroughly modern woman. So much so that her clamoring public believes she’s a man…
FACT: Drawing under a male pseudonym, Maggie is known as Lemarc. Her (his!) favorite object of ridicule: Simon Barrett, Earl of Winchester. He’s a rising star in Parliament—and a former confidant and love interest of Maggie’s who believed a rumor that vexes her to this day.

FICTION: Maggie is the Half-Irish Harlot who seduced her best friend’s husband on the eve of their wedding. She is to be feared and loathed as she will lift her skirts for anything in breeches.

Still crushed by Simon’s betrayal, Maggie has no intention of letting the ton crush her as well. In fact, Lemarc’s cartoons have made Simon a laughingstock…but now it appears that Maggie may have been wrong about what happened years ago, and that Simon has been secretly yearning for her since…forever. Could it be that the heart is mightier than the pen and the sword after all?

Amazon/B&N

The long corridor outside the drawing room resembled a maze, with doors every which way. Picking a direction, Maggie searched for a footman. Perhaps he could draw her a detailed map on how to find the terrace.

From the shadow of an alcove, a figure stepped into her path. “Lady Hawkins.”

Simon. She started, pressed a hand to her chest. “You scared the life out of me. What are you doing out here?”

He folded his arms, the fine wool of his coat pulling taut across his broad shoulders. “I could ask you the same question—only I suspect the answer. Where did you have it planned?”

“Simon, I think you had better return to the dining room—”

“The music room? The conservatory?” he continued, steady steps bringing him closer. “I happen to know there are hundreds of little spots all over this house where one—or perhaps two—could hide for an extended period of time.”

She tried to make sense of his words over the thundering of her heart. Was he insinuating . . . ? Oh, for heaven’s sake. Did he always assume the worst of her? Feet planted, she stopped moving and lifted her chin. “Are you under the impression I’m engaging in some sort of a tryst? In the middle of a dinner party?” It was so absurd, she could hardly speak it.

His smirk confirmed it. “Convenient you and Markham both excused yourselves within moments of one another, wouldn’t you say? Let me give you a piece of advice for next time: It draws less attention if you sneak away once the gentlemen join the—”
She came forward to hiss, “You hypocritical horse’s arse. I stepped out for some air. Alone.”

He had the gall to snort. “Yes, I’m quite sure Markham would offer up a similar story if we were to ask him.”

Anger rushed through her veins, settling in her chest like a heavy mound of potter’s clay. Simon loomed over her, snarling down in self-righteous fury, and she discovered he’d backed her up against a wall. She knew in that moment he would never believe her denials; he’d formed his opinion of her ten years ago and there would be no changing his mind.

Fine, she could play the harlot for him. Maybe then he’d leave her alone—though she truly longed to crack him one across his closely shaven jaw.

She exhaled, forced her limbs to relax, and licked her lips. Predictably, his gaze locked on her mouth, so she rolled her bottom lip between her teeth. His chest continued to rise and fall, the harsh exhales filling the room, and his eyes darkened to sapphires.

Oh yes, revenge could be sweet. Ever so slowly, she dragged one finger down the length of her bare collarbone. “Did you corner me in hopes of taking his place?” she asked, her voice low and intimate.

Simon shifted closer, the pure male, spicy scent of him filling her nose. She liked the way he smelled, orange and sandalwood with a hint of tobacco. The proximity of his frame distracted her as well. His evening clothes held no padding, and the well-tailored fit hugged him quite perfectly. She could see the outline—

“If I chose to take Markham’s place,” he started, placing his hands against the wall, one on either side of her head, to cage her in.

He leaned in and for one terrifying, heart-stopping moment she thought he was going to kiss her, but he shifted just before their lips touched. The tip of his nose slid across her cheek, tiny puffs of breath heating her skin as he nuzzled her. Maggie’s breasts swelled, and her lids fell with the rush of pleasure that rippled the length of her body. “If I chose to take his place, it wouldn’t be here,” he whispered near her ear. “I’d take you to my bed at Barrett House and show you wickedness Markham could not even begin to imagine. But that is not why I cornered you.”

Close. He was much too close. Despite her desire to remain unaffected, her belly fluttered and warmth tingled between her legs.

Why on earth had it only ever been this odious man to elicit such feelings? She swallowed. “Then why?”

He flicked her earbob with his tongue, then nipped the lobe with gentle teeth. She inhaled sharply. “What game are you playing at, Maggie?”

“I—” Her traitorous voice caught, so she cleared her throat. “There is no game, Simon.”

Her control began melting away. She longed to do every improper thing in the world to him—and for him to return them in kind.

Odd since she hadn’t ever enjoyed intimacies with a man. Had hated it, actually. But somehow, this was different.

Why had she started this? Oh yes, she’d thought to teach him a lesson, make a fool of him. Have him panting with lust and then leave him begging—only this was turning into something else entirely.

“I like games,” he continued, his lips brushing over her throat in a seductive caress. “But I also like to win. I wonder, are you prepared to pay the price when you lose?”

She shivered. There wasn’t enough air in the damn room. “I never lose,” she rasped. “And you have more at stake.”

“Do I?” His nose slid along the sensitive line of her jaw, the skin prickling in his wake. “I think I could take you against this wall.

Right now. Right here.” His hips pressed against hers, his erection stiff and unapologetic, and she sucked in a breath. Before she knew it, her hands clutched at his waist to hold him in place.

“But you should know,” he continued, his mouth hovering above her lips, “I only play games when there aren’t quite so many players. I do not care to be one of many.”

About the Author:

Award-winning author JOANNA SHUPE has always loved history, ever since she saw her first Schoolhouse Rock cartoon. While in college, Joanna read every romance she could get her hands on and soon started crafting her own racy historical novels. She now lives in New Jersey with her two spirited daughters and dashing husband.

Website/Twitter/Facebook

Jennifer’s Review of The Harlot Countess

Review (4 Stars): I love the Wicked Deceptions series and I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of The Harlot Countess. I loved how Maggie got back at Simon after the way that he treated her and I don’t think I could have ever forgiven him for what he had done. Ms. Shupe has a delightful way of bringing two people together with wit and charm that will keep readers coming back for more. I love her amazing writing style and humor and looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
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May 6, 2015May 6, 2015

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

Guest Post

by Carlene O’Neil

Hi, I’m Penny Lively, owner of Joyeux Winery. Joyeux is a smaller winery in comparison to several of our neighbors, but enjoys a great reputation. As it happens, I’ve also managed to gain a reputation for my knack for finding bodies. I don’t know if knack is the right word…Connor would call it a gift, but the statement would be said under his breath and likely dripping with sarcasm. Connor’s my winery manager. My manager and nothing more. Yup, nothing more. He’s the best manager on the central California coast and I’m lucky to have him in that capacity, which is why I’ve stifled any urges I might have for him in any other capacity…

Where was I? Right. So after a long career as an investigative photojournalist, I came home to the winery I’d inherited. I’d been worried small town life would be too slow. Instead, I’ve been back less than a year and so far I’ve managed to find more bodies than I did in an entire career investigating situations where one might reasonably expect to find bodies. The local police can’t decide what to do with me, but it’s not like I’m asking for this. Although, I have to admit, once I’m involved I’m not about to walk away. Either the police manage to get it wrong, or someone I care about is a suspect and asks for my help. The first time it happened, my neighbor, Antonia Martinelli, thought someone was sabotaging her winery. She didn’t want to go to the police because she thought one of her children might be involved. Simple, right? Nobody mentioned murder. They never really do.

Between running the winery and running just ahead of whatever mess I’m no doubt in, I stay pretty busy. Connor does most of the heavy lifting when it comes to the winery, so I have free time on my hands. I spend most of it with my camera, a holdover from my last profession. My focus is on the landscape now, and this is a part of the country where it’s easy to find inspiration. The winery is beautiful, vineyards stretched across rolling hills in tones of bronze and umber, and just a short drive from Monterey Bay, Pebble Beach and the fabulous town of Cypress Cove.

That’s another thing; murder just shouldn’t happen somewhere so beautiful. The mean streets of Los Angeles? Sure. The underbelly of Chicago? Who’s surprised? Nobody. Here, when you find a body set against such beauty, it seems so much more shocking, vicious, and wrong. There’s a Latin saying, “It is well to remember that there are five reasons for drinking: the arrival of a friend; one’s present or future thirst; the excellence of the wine; or any other reason.” After what I’ve just been through I would include finding a body in your neighbor’s crusher. Just saying.

About the Author:

Carlene O’Neil grew up in the heart of Northern California Wine Country and is accredited by the Wine and Spirits Education Trust. A former television writer, she currently makes her home outside Los Angeles, where she can be found sailing in the Santa Monica Bay or doing research for her next novel.

Clearly, any novel set in wine country requires extensive research. One Foot in the Grape is her debut novel, coming out in spring 2015 from Berkley Prime Crime. Visit her online at Facebook, Twitter and Google+

In California wine country, the town of Cypress Cove may seem peaceful. But someone’s about to pop their cork…

After losing her job as a photojournalist, Penny Lively is trying to get her life back in focus. Inheriting the family winery from her late aunt may be the fresh start she needs. Thankfully she’s got her niece Hayley and her handsome winery manager Connor to help. But the person in need of more urgent assistance is Antonia Martinelli, the owner of the neighboring winery, who has her own barrel full of problems. Someone’s spoiling her wine, and with the upcoming Autumn Festival, she needs Penny’s nose for clues to sniff out the culprit.

But Penny’s search for answers sours after the body of a staff member is found in a grape crusher. Since Hayley was the last to see him alive, she’s the prime suspect in the case. Now Penny must hurry to find the real killer before Hayley withers on the vine…

Amazon/B&N

Jennifer’s Review of One Foot in the Grape

Review (4.5 Stars): One Foot in the Grape was a delightful and engaging mystery that will entertain mystery and wine lovers alike. Penny just lost her job as a photojournalist and has come home to her aunt’s winery to start anew. She learns that someone is sabotaging a neighboring winery and their owner has asked Penny for her help in finding the culprit. What she finds is a dead body and her good friend, Hayley, being blamed for this terrible crime. Penny must now find a killer before it is too late and the killer adds another victim to their list.

I loved One Foot in the Grape because the heroine was fun, spunky and easy to connect with. Penny just wanted to pick up the pieces of her life and the last thing she wanted was to be dragged into helping Antonia find out who has been sabotaging her wine barrels. I thought it was extremely fascinating learning about the wine making business and the secondary characters were just as charming as Penny. This was a well-written and fast paced mystery and I’m excited that this is the first book in the series and hope that there will be many more to come in the future. An absolute delight!

Giveaway

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

May 6, 2015April 23, 2015

Gift Ideas for the Book Lover #30

Found some cute items for this week’s “Gift Idea For The Book Lover”! Scroll down below and check out this week’s items and let me know which is your favorite?

*****

Book Lovers Glasses Bracelet Bibliophile Bookish Jewelry

By ALikelyStory

$24.95 (plus S&H)

Flaunt those specs, because you’re a book lover and you’re proud.

This glasses wearing bibliophile’s bracelet comes in 2 adjustable sizes and features glasses, books and a heart.

*****

Chronicles of Narnia Flats Literature Flats Literature Shoes Book Flats Book Shoes Decoupage Flats Classic Literature

By LeadFootLucy

$50.00+ (plus S&H)

Chronicles of Narnia Flats Literature Flats Literature Shoes Book Flats Book Shoes Decoupage Flats Classic Literature

Made-To-Order: Chronicles of Narnia – The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe flats. The flats are covered with actual pages from a reclaimed Narnia novel. The images on the toes are newly printed in white, which is a great pop against the aged book pages, and feature hand-calligraphed illumination-style edging. The edges and flexible areas of the flats are black for an extra accent. Due to the hand-made nature of my items, irregularities do occur at times and can be welcomed as part of the creative process. Purchase of this item constitutes your agreement to abide by my shop policies.

*****

THE NOTEBOOK Coaster Set – 4 Tumbled travertine stone coasters made with actual book pages

By SherryLynns

$29.99 (plus S&H)

LOVE this book & movie by Nicholas Sparks! Fun, unique gift!

Made with tumbled travertine stone tiles. Torn, frayed edges for an elegant yet rustic casual effect!

~ Travertine tumbled stone from Turkey.

~ Set of 4.

~ Each as been sealed.

~ Corner backing for furniture protection.

~ Hand wipe … do not immerse in water.

*****

Custom READ letters Made with Upcycled Vintage Book Dust Jackets, Unique Recycled Eco Friendly Bibliophile Gift

By sorrythankyou79

$40.00 (plus S&H)

Custom READ letters Made with Upcycled Vintage Book Dust Jackets, Unique Recycled Eco Friendly Bibliophile Gift

each letter measures 8″ tall. They are MDF covered in vintage book dust jacket spines.

This listing is for the Word ” R E A D” I Can do any word you like–the price will depend on the length of the word–

*These are just examples–yours will be unique*

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 6, 2015May 3, 2015

Kelly reviews The Last Town by Blake Crouch

TITLE: The Last Town
SERIES #: Wayward Pines #3
CHARACTERS: Ethan Burke and the town folk of Wayward Pines
AUTHOR: Blake Crouch
NARRATOR: Paul Michael Garcia
RUN TIME: 6 Hours & 56 Minutes
PUBLICATION DATE: July 15, 2014
ORDER LINKS:Amazon| B&N |Audible

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Welcome to Wayward Pines, the last town.

Secret Service agent Ethan Burke arrived in Wayward Pines, Idaho, three weeks ago. In this town, people are told who to marry, where to live, where to work. Their children are taught that David Pilcher, the town’s creator, is god. No one is allowed to leave; even asking questions can get you killed.

But Ethan has discovered the astonishing secret of what lies beyond the electrified fence that surrounds Wayward Pines and protects it from the terrifying world beyond. It is a secret that has the entire population completely under the control of a madman and his army of followers, a secret that is about to come storming through the fence to wipe out this last, fragile remnant of humanity.

REVIEW:
4.75 Hearts At the end of book 2 there are so many questions that need to be answered. So many OMG no’s about to come. The Last Town may be the shortest book in the series. But it was great. So great I am a little peeved at Mr. Crouch. I want more. I want to know what happens next. Anything???? Goodness!!!
I really can’t tell you to much without giving away spoilers. But know if you enjoyed book 1 and 2 you will enjoy this last installment.
I will say that there were a few moments that I wish were a little more painful for a certain few people. I did have to grab the tissues a few times. And the very last sentence of this book left me with a big ole “WTF Mr. Crouch”. Loved this series and can’t wait for the TV series!!

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

May 5, 2015May 3, 2015

Jennifer reviews Day Shift by Charlaine Harris

TITLE: Day Shift
SERIES #: Midnight, Texas #2
CHARACTERS: Olivia Charity, Manfred Bernardo
AUTHOR: Charlaine Harris
PUBLICATION DATE: 05/05/15
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
There is no such thing as bad publicity, except in Midnight, Texas, where the residents like to keep to themselves. Even in a town full of secretive people, Olivia Charity is an enigma. She lives with the vampire Lemuel, but no one knows what she does; they only know that she’s beautiful and dangerous.

Psychic Manfred Bernardo finds out just how dangerous when he goes on a working weekend to Dallas and sees Olivia there with a couple who are both found dead the next day. To make matters worse, one of Manfred’s regular—and very wealthy—clients dies during a reading.

Manfred returns from Dallas embroiled in scandal and hounded by the press. He turns to Olivia for help; somehow he knows that the mysterious Olivia can get things back to normal. As normal as things get in Midnight…

REVIEW:
I’m a huge Charlaine Harris fan and I was very excited to get my hands on the next book in the Midnight, Texas series. Manfred finds himself in a lot of trouble when a working weekend turns into murder when one of his clients dies during a reading. To make matters worse, Manfred is blamed for the death and the client’s jewels are missing. Now he has to turn to Olivia to help solve the mystery of what happened to the missing jewels and help clear his name. But there is more to Olivia than meets the eye and everyone in Midnight has secrets that soon may come to light.

I admit I had a hard time getting started with her first book, Midnight Crossroad but I’m happy to say that Day Shift grabbed me from the first page and wouldn’t let go. I enjoyed learning more about Manfred, Rev and the mysterious Olivia, who I definitely would want on my side if I ever had a problem. The story was very fast-paced and entertaining and I loved seeing a familiar face at the end of this story. Day Shift is a fascinating addition to the amazing talent of Charlaine Harris and I am continually impressed with her ability to weave a tale that will keep you mesmerized for hours. Can’t wait to read the next story from this great writer.

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

May 5, 2015May 4, 2015

Blog Tour & Giveaway: Carry Me Home by Lia Riley

Love doesn’t have to be perfect to be true…
Years ago, Tanner Green loved Sunny Letman. She was meant to be his first kiss, first love, first everything. Then their world spun upside-down and out of control. Free-spirited Sunny doesn’t do commitment. Sure, guys are great for a night or a week, but she always leaves first. That is, until professional skateboarder and town golden boy, Tanner Green, unexpectedly walks back into her life.

Despite their broken history, a fragile and undeniably electric connection still holds them together. Now Tanner has to convince Sunny that even though love isn’t always perfect, it’s worth sticking around for. .

Amazon/B&N

*EXCERPT*

Tanner is in the shower when I let myself inside. There’s a wooden rocking chair in the corner. I walk over, sit and close my eyes. He’s naked, soapy, skin flushed from the hot spray. I could join him. He wants me. The space between my legs throbs to the beat of my heart. What’s set in motion between us isn’t going to stop.

I rock, straighten my backbone and focus my attentions. Imagine each breath spiraling through the open door, to the sky, leaving the atmosphere. A quiet prayer. Please. Please don’t let me fuck this up. My hands grip the rocking chair sides hard, hands that ache to touch his wet skin.

The water turns off and he’s out, rubbing a towel over his body.

I’m going for it, can’t help myself.

I tried my best to be my own island.

Turns out my best isn’t nearly good enough.

The door opens and he stands, backlit in a tight white t-shirt and pair of low slung jeans. His mop of hair is wet, slicked back from his striking face.

“Good, you’re back,” he says. “I didn’t like you out there alone.”

“I was fine, nothing scary outside.”

He frowns, catching my double meaning. “I decided to sleep in the back of my car.”

“No, it’s fine.”

“I don’t mind.”

Of course he doesn’t. He’d sleep on bare concrete if he thought it would be easier for me.

“I get it.” He backs toward the door. “Tonight’s been extreme. You want space. I’ll go–”

“Stop.” I’m in the darkest corner, in this rocking chair throne, the Queen of the Shadows. There’s a great mystery at work. How can my heart be chained to this guy and still feel free?

A bead of water drops from his thick hair and falls to his shoulder. Then another. Tiny wet patches appear on his shirt each time one makes impact. The way he watches me, his gaze writes a secret poem on my skin. “Tell me you don’t want me,” he says.“Say you’re not interested and nothing will happen.”

I want to curl in a ball. Instead, I stand up.

“Sunny,” he whispers, and it’s hard to know if he intends my name as a question or an answer. Funny, the way it sounds like both.

My lids flutter closed of their own volition as he closes the distance. He’s tall enough that when he bends, his face buries into the top of my head. He inhales as if I’m a secret flower. I wish I only ever bloomed for him. A stupid notion. This moment would be perfect if it wasn’t us. If we were other people.

I hook my fingers into his belt loops and do an uncharacteristic fumble, aim too high and brush his stomach instead. His abdominal muscles flex and there’s my cue to explore. I can’t help but inch under the cotton, trace the thick muscles that make up his defined V-line. My nails gently cut to the top of his jeans. His groan vibrates into my skull.

He’s slipping, less careful with every ragged breath. His skin heats under my fingertips. There’s no choice. There’s never been with him.

I rock into him, hard, and his mouth explodes on mine like a wet, hot grenade. He bites my lower lip and even though I’m scared, I’m not scared of him anymore.

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

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May 5, 2015May 4, 2015

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

Q& A with Toni Holmes

From the Baker’s Treat Gluten-Free Mystery Series

What new thing would you try? Barrel racing

What would make you say no? Bull riding

What do you get too much of? Family opinions

And not enough? Sleep

What fear have you conquered? Fitting in

Not quite yet? Failure

What are you getting better at? Baking Gluten-free

What are you getting worse at? Dating

What would you pay good money for? A new mixer

What wouldn’t you take even if it were free? An apartment in Chicago

Do you have a career highlight? Opening my gluten free bakery, Baker’s Treat

And low point? Struggling to catch the guy who is framing my brother Tim.

What are you endlessly curious about? How to make food gluten free.

And zero interest in? Cow tipping

What do you empathize with? Innocent people accused of a crime they didn’t commit

What do you have no sympathy for? Killers

What is worth the wait? Love

What do you have no patience for? People who dismiss food allergies

What’s always cool? Birthday cake – gluten free, of course

What’s never cool? Dismissing someone for needing a special diet

About the Author:

Nancy J Parra AKA Nancy Coco is the author of 19 published novels which include three mystery series: The Gluten-free Baker’s Treat Mysteries (Berkley Prime Crime), The Candy Coated Mysteries (Kensington), and The Perfect Proposal Mysteries (Berkley Prime Crime). Her writing has been called witty and her protagonists plucky by reviewers around the world. Nancy is a member of Sisters in Crime, Mystery Writers of America and writes for the Killer Character Blog on the 8th of every month. Nancy loves to hear from readers. Find her at www.nancyjparra.com

Website/Twitter/Facebook

It’s never a good time for a crisis. Toni’s busy whipping up gluten-free holiday treats when a murder forces her to put baking on the back burner. A dead man has been found in the bathtub of a local inn—in a room registered to her brother, Tim.

With her sibling now a prime suspect in a mysterious homicide, Toni is determined to find out who set him up. But she’s about to get some unwanted assistance from former investigative journalist Grandma Ruth, who won’t let anything slow her progress in running down a killer…

Amazon/B&N

Jennifer’s Review of Flourless To Stop Him

Review (4 Stars): Toni is preparing for the holiday season and trying to figure out what to give everyone when she is pulled into another murder investigation, this time involving her brother, Tim. A dead body is found in the bathroom of the Red Tile Inn, in a room that just happened to be registered to her brother. Now she must find a killer and clear her brother’s name before she becomes the next victim.

Such a cute and charming series. I love cozy mysteries that involve food especially if the heroine runs a yummy bakery that has treats that make my mouth water while I’m reading about it. Toni is a very sweet character and I like the way that she learns from her past mistakes in murder investigations and does her best not to try and repeat them. I love that Toni has a sexy romantic interest in this mystery and I can’t wait to see where the relationship goes from here. Delicious cozy mystery that will have this reader coming back for more.

Giveaway

I’m excited to give away a copy of Flourless To Stop Him. This giveaway is for US Residents only. To be entered in the drawing by May 16th, please leave me a comment below:

May 4, 2015May 3, 2015

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

Becoming More Familiar

By Darcy Merriweather from Heather Blake’s Wishcraft mysteries

Have you ever heard of familiars? You’d think that I would have brushed up on all my witchcraft terminology when I found out I was a witch and then moved to the Enchanted Village in Salem, Massachusetts, where there’s a witch on every corner.

But I’d never heard of a familiar, didn’t know what they were, and had never seen one until one was quite literally underfoot. If you’re as clueless as I was, here’s the definition from dictionary.com (don’t you love that website?)

Familiar: an animal, as a cat, that embodies a supernatural spirit and aids a witch in performing magic.

Since I’ve been in the village, I’ve come across a couple of familiars: Pepe (a mouse who works at Bewitching Boutique) and Archie (a Macaw who works for the Craft’s secret Elder). But I know there are more, maybe even one under my own roof. Could it be Missy, our dog? Tilda, our cat?

I’ve begun questioning every critter I come across but so far no one’s talking. I guess time will reveal who’s who and what’s what around here.

Until then, I’m hoping Pepe and Archie will help me solve the murder that recently occurred in the village—and help me to brush up on all things witchcraft. Can’t hurt to ask them, right?

About the Author:

Heather Blake (aka Heather Webber) is the author of more than twenty novels and has been twice nominated for an Agatha Award. She’s a total homebody who loves to be close to her family, read, watch reality TV (especially cooking competition shows), drink too much coffee, crochet, bake (mostly cookies), and occasionally leave the house to travel to the beautiful mountains in the northeast. Heather grew up in a suburb of Boston, but currently she lives in the Cincinnati area with her family and is hard at work on her next book.

Website/Twitter/Facebook

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.…

Amazon/B&N

Jennifer’s Review of Some Like It Witchy

Review (4.5 Stars): Some Like It Witchy is a magically entertaining addition to an already charming cozy series. Darcy and her friend, Cherise, are visiting the old Tavistock house that Cherise intends to buy, when they discover the body of the real estate agent upstairs in the master bedroom. Darcy finds herself in the middle of another mystery with a killer that will do anything to prevent their identity from being discovered.

This is one of my favorite series and I love the Enchanted Village and all its inhabitants. Darcy and Nick’s relationship is progressing nicely and I’m looking forward to seeing what is up for them next. I loved the mystery involving the old house and the secrets that everyone believed the old owner was hiding from the rest of the village. I was so involved with this mystery that by the time we reached the end, I was blindsided by the identity of the killer. Never saw that coming at all. Ms. Blake has done a great job with this series and I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series.

Giveaway

I’m excited to give away a copy of Some Like It Witchy. This giveaway is for US Residents only. To be entered in the drawing by May 15th, please leave me a comment below:

May 4, 2015May 3, 2015

Blog Tour & Giveaway: Tessa Ever After by Brighton Walsh

In this grippingly emotional New Adult novel from the author of Caged in Winter, what you want isn’t always what you need…
Jason’s been living (and loving) the rich playboy lifestyle for five years, but now his parents are pressuring him to get involved in the family business. The last thing he wants is another obligation, but when his best friend moves out of state and asks Jason to look after his sister, he can’t just say no.
Tessa had to grow up way too soon. After dealing with the aftermath of her parents’ deaths, then becoming a teenage mom, she knows the meaning of responsibility. Which is why, at twenty-two, she’s looking for so much more than a party boy. She’s looking for someone who can stand by her and her daughter…forever.
A relationship between them is doomed from the start, but who says they can’t have a little fun? But as Jason gets closer to Tessa—and her daughter—fun starts to turn into something else… Something Jason’s not sure he’s ready for.

Amazon/B&N

*EXCERPT*

tessa
I threw the game. Despite my daughter wanting me to win—for girls everywhere, she said—I couldn’t. I feigned exhaustion, letting my body slump to the ground. Because my blood was boiling, my body on fire as I pressed against Jason’s body during a stupid game of Twister, and I couldn’t take it anymore. If Haley hadn’t been in the room, I would’ve pulled Jason down on top of me and let him strip me down right there on that stupid plastic mat.
In reality, I had a four-year-old to attend to instead of doing everything I wanted to. In the thirty minutes since putting Haley to bed, my urgency has faded, leaving behind only a subtle hum under my skin, but it’s there. This vibration of need when Jason is around that I never bothered to notice before. Or that I willingly ignored, which is probably more the case.

Despite that, despite wanting him, I’m in the bathroom under the guise of freshening up, even though I showered just a couple hours ago. I’m stalling, and I don’t know why. Haley’s asleep, Jason’s in the living room, presumably waiting for me, and I’m hiding in the bathroom.

Several minutes go by before a soft knock sounds at the door, sending me jumping nearly a foot in the air.

“Yeah . . .” I try to say, except my voice comes out all scratchy and breathless, so I clear my throat and try again. “Yeah?”

“Do you want me to just go home, Tess?”

“What?” I whip the door open, eyes wide and frantic, because that is absolutely not what I want. Not even a little bit. Leaning his shoulder against the doorjamb, Jason’s eyes snap to mine as soon as the layer of wood isn’t separating us anymore, and in that split second when our eyes meet, the heat between us cracks and sizzles just like it did while we were playing the game.

Just like it’s been doing anytime we’re within twenty feet of each other. Shaking my head, I say, “No. I don’t want you to go home.”

His eyebrows lift up on his forehead, his expression one that clearly says he thinks I’m full of it. “You sure?Because you’ve been hiding in here for ten minutes.”

I open my mouth to argue with him about the hiding bit, but there’s no use. Instead, I simply nod and swallow, not sure I can find the words to tell him exactly what’s going on with me.

Mostly because I don’t even know myself.

It’s not like I’m a virgin, and even though it has been a while, I’ve never gotten like this with any of my previous partners.

Never had this overwhelming nervousness, and I don’t know where it’s coming from. No idea why there’s this swarm of bees buzzing around in my stomach. Why I’m all breathless with anticipation and anxiety.

But then Jason steps forward, right into my space, one hand coming up and cupping the back of my neck while the other goes to my hip, his thumb slipping under the material of my shirt to graze the skin above my waistband, and I know exactly why there’s a tornado in my belly.

“Last chance,” he murmurs, his breath washing over my lips, and I don’t think I could tell him to stop even if I wanted to.
But I don’t. I don’t want to, so I shake my head, and finally—finally—he closes the distance between us and puts his lips to mine.

The kiss is tentative at first, a question, and even though he gave me an out just a moment ago, I love that he’s not pushing it.

When I don’t pull away, don’t do anything but grip the front of his shirt in my fists and pull him closer to me, he takes that as an answer and swipes his tongue across my lips. On a moan, I open to him, desperate to taste him again in a way I didn’t allow myself to think about before now.

Jason’s grip on me tightens, his thumb rubbing in circles against the pulse point at my neck, and I know he can feel my heart flying. It’s nearly pounding right out of my rib cage. His other hand curls around my hip, pulling me closer to him, flush with him, and I can’t stop from gasping into his mouth. He’s against me, all of him, strong and solid and hard, and I didn’t realize how much I wanted this until this very moment.

He’s already good at reading my cues, because no more have I thought it than we’re walking, fumbling down the hallway and into my bedroom. The door isn’t even closed before I start tugging up his shirt, desperate to feel his skin against mine. With a grunt and a curse, he reaches back and yanks his shirt over his head before his lips are back on mine, his tongue sliding against my own, and I can hardly breathe I want this so badly.

In the dozen-plus years of his being in my life, I’ve seen him without a shirt on too many times to count, but I’ve never felt his bare skin. Not like this. He’s sinewy and muscular, the body of a runner, all tall and lanky, the muscles in his abdomen defined but not obscene, his biceps cut but not bulky. I run my hands over every part of him I can reach, sliding from his chest to his stomach, following the trail of hair down then hooking into the waistband of his jeans, and I want those off, too.

“Jesus, Tess,” he groans into my mouth, and the roughness of it washes over me like a warm rain, comforting me in a way I didn’t realize I needed. He wants this. Me. Desperately. It’s reassuring to know I’m not in this on my own.

His lips brush across my cheek, his teeth nipping at my chin, his tongue licking a line up the column of my neck, and I think I might die right here. I might actually die, because my heart feels like the pounding hooves of a thousand horses, and I can’t seem to get my clothes off fast enough.

About the Author:

Brighton Walsh spent nearly a decade as a professional photographer before deciding to take her storytelling in a different direction and reconnect with writing. She lives in the Midwest with her husband and two children.

Website/Twitter/Facebook

Jennifer’s Review of Tessa Ever After

Review (4.0 Stars): Tessa and Jason were absolutely adorable together. She had always looked to Jason to help her when things went wrong in her life and he would always be there, no matter what it was. It is so hard to find a guy that you can depend in life and they were both so afraid of taking that next step from friendship to romance because they had known each other for so long. She needed someone like Jason because he was everything; the bad boy, the best friend and the person that she could depend on in life. For Jason, Tessa was the one, the one woman that he could see forever with and could help him build a life that he wanted, not what his family kept pushing him to do.

Ms. Walsh did a wonderful job creating these characters that you can instantly relate to and now I want to read more about Tessa’s brother, Cade. Tessa Ever After was a sweet, coming of age romance that shows that friendship can lead to the best love story imaginable.
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May 4, 2015May 3, 2015

Kelly reviews Wayward by Blake Crouch

TITLE: Wayward
SERIES #: Wayward Pines #2
CHARACTERS: Ethan Burke and the town folk of Wayward Pines
AUTHOR: Blake Crouch
NARRATOR: Paul Michael Garcia
RUN TIME: 8 Hours & 43 Minutes
PUBLICATION DATE: September 17, 2013
ORDER LINKS:Amazon| B&N |Amazon

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Welcome to Wayward Pines, population 461. Nestled amidst picture-perfect mountains, the idyllic town is a modern-day Eden…except for the electrified fence and razor wire, snipers scoping everything 24/7, and the relentless surveillance tracking each word and gesture.
None of the residents know how they got here. They are told where to work, how to live, and who to marry. Some believe they are dead. Others think they’re trapped in an unfathomable experiment. Everyone secretly dreams of leaving, but those who dare face a terrifying surprise.

Ethan Burke has seen the world beyond. He’s sheriff, and one of the few who knows the truth—Wayward Pines isn’t just a town. And what lies on the other side of the fence is a nightmare beyond anyone’s imagining.

REVIEW:
4.5 Hearts Wayward picks up right where Pines left off. If you have not read Pines yet you really really have to read it. This trilogy is not one that you can pick up book 2 or 3 and be okay. No way. To much happens in each book that leads into the next. So if you have not started Pines you may want to stop here. I always try to make my reviews as spoiler free as possible. But I warned you.
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Now that Ethan is sheriff of Wayward Pines he is expected to walk the line. But Mr. Pilcher (and I use that word Mister, very loosely) thinks that he has Ethan right where he wants him. Unfortunately for Mr. Pilcher, Ethan is a much much stronger person than anyone expects or could predict.
There is a lot that happens in Wayward. There is a murder (not a fete, an actual murder). A Murder the Ethan is asked to investigate. The results of that investigation will turn Wayward Pines world upside down and lead to Ethan making choices that could get all of them killed.

As in Pines, Paul Michael Garcia does a great job of bring the story to life. I am looking forward to the last and final book in this trilogy. I am a little scared as to what is going to happen.

Wayward Pines, is being turned into a TV series on Fox this May. I have seen the previews and it looks great! And it doesn’t hurt that one of my childhood crushes Matt Dillon is playing Mr. Ethan Burke. If you have not read this series I would suggest picking it up, but be prepared as of the end of this book it does not look like there will ever be a HEA.

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

May 3, 2015May 3, 2015