Books-n-Kisses

April 17, 2015April 16, 2015

Blog Tour & Giveaway: Five-Alarm Fudge by Christine DeSmet

The Cape Cod of the Midwest is this cozy’s setting

With author Christine DeSmet, the Fudge Shop Mystery Series

Ava Oosterling and her Grandpa Gil operate Oosterlings’ Live Bait, Bobbers & Belgian Fudge & Beer on a harbor in Door County, Wisconsin, known as the “Cape Cod of the Midwest.”

In Five-Alarm Fudge, Book 3 of the Fudge Shop Mystery series, Ava and her Grandpa Gil are again mixed up in a fun fudge felony—this time involving romance, royal relatives, and revenge.

When a visiting European prince asks Ava Oosterling to unearth a priceless, 1800s divinity fudge recipe, the request fans the flames of foul play, with murder marring Ava’s Cinderella dreams.

Prior to the story, Grandpa took it upon himself to invite the prince of Belgium to visit. Grandpa insists the prince is a shirt-tail relation but far enough removed by ancestors to qualify as marriage material for Ava.

Ava is beside herself with Grandpa. She’s in the midst of a rekindled romance with her ex, Dillon Rivers, who is refurbishing the Blue Heron Inn in order for Ava to take it over. In the meantime, Ava lives in a rundown rental cabin with an ever-present field mouse.

Grandpa has also promised the prince that Ava will find a long, lost divinity fudge recipe supposedly hidden in a local historical church by a Belgian nun during an 1871 fire.

The irony of being surrounded by miles and miles of water in this peninsular county is that on October 8, 1871 the very real Great Fire happened—taking an estimated 1,500 to 2,000 lives in this region. This event occurred the same days as the famous Chicago fire that took about 300 lives.

This novel delves into a lot of real history of the region. Did you know that this area is home to the only church-sanctioned Marian sighting in the United States? You’ll learn about the real Sister Adele Brise, who hid in a wood church and was spared in the Great Fire. Prior to that event, she reported being visited by Mary, the mother of Jesus. Today, travelers from across the United States stop at the shrine in Champion, Wis., on their way to Door County.

Just north of there, in Namur, Wis., Grandpa Gil feels sure that the traveling, teaching nun must have hidden an early version of a divinity fudge recipe in the brick church, thus protecting the special recipe from fires.

Ava scours the local church for the recipe, but instead finds a dead body, a fire, and the start of a game of hide-and-seek with an arsonist out to do in Ava before she can try on the glass slipper.

Other regular characters in my series include Ava’s best friend Pauline, who’s a kindergarten teacher, and Laura, who’s having twins and waiting for her husband to come home from a special mission in the Middle East.

There’s also a smart gaggle of church ladies who often cause Ava no end of trouble when they volunteer at the fudge shop.

And Dillon Rivers’ American water spaniel, Lucky Harbor, finds his nose in all kinds of trouble in every fudge mystery.

My series presents a warm-hearted view of a real place popular for vacations. I hope readers have a chance to look it up online to explore and then visit sometime where reading a Fudge Shop Mystery while lazing away a day in a hammock is what Door County is all about.

About the Author:

Christine DeSmet writes the Fudge Shop Mystery Series (Penguin Random House/NAL/Obsidian). She’s also an award-winning scriptwriter and teaches writing at University of Wisconsin-Madison Continuing Studies where she directs the annual June Write-by-the-Lake Writer’s Workshop & Retreat. You can write to her at UW-Madison, cdesmet@dcs.wisc.edu or find her on Facebook or at her website, www.ChristineDeSmet.com.

It’s autumn in Fishers’ Harbor, Wisconsin, and fudge shop owner Ava Oosterling is busy preparing for the harvest festival and a visit from some royal relatives who live in Belgium. According to Ava’s grandpa, a famous divinity fudge recipe from the 1860s is hidden somewhere in a local historical church—a treat fit for a prince.

But when a fire in the church reveals the body of a murdered man, it looks like someone is willing to go to any length to possess the valuable secret to the divinity fudge. As Ava searches for the killer—and the recipe—she could use a little divine intervention, because she may have bitten off more than she can chew…

Amazon/B&N

Jennifer’s Review of Five-Alarm Fudge

Review (4 Stars): Five-Alarm Fudge is a charming mystery filled with irresistible treats, fascinating characters and a complex plot-driven whodunnit that kept me reading past my bedtime. Ava and her family are preparing for a visit from some royal relatives and Ava must find a missing fudge recipe that her grandfather said that she would make for their visiting guests. When a fire in the church leads to the discovery of a dead body, Ava learns that this missing recipe may be the motive for murder and is on the hunt to find another killer before it is too late.

Ava is such an interesting character and I enjoy spending time with her and her lovely friends with each new mystery. I loved seeing how far she has come over the course of the series, especially in her relationship with her old flame, Dillon. The mystery was entertaining and fun and I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the Fudge Shop Mystery series.

Giveaway

I’m excited to give away a copy of Five Alarm Fudge. This giveaway is for US Residents only. To be entered in the drawing by April 22nd, please leave me a comment below:

April 17, 2015April 12, 2015

Kelly reviews On The Run by Jo Davis

TITLE: On the Run
SERIES #: Sugarland Blue #4
CHARACTERS: Tonio Salvatore & Angel Silva
AUTHOR: Jo Davis
PUBLICATION DATE: April 7, 2015
ORDER LINKS:Amazon| B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
In the latest Sugarland Blue novel, Detective Tonio Salvatore always puts his job first—until a beautiful piece of trouble has him questioning the rules he’s sworn to live by…

Tonio knows that loneliness is the price he has to pay to avoid being hurt again. But the strictly by-the-book cop never expected to be blindsided by a woman who pulls him right out of his self-imposed isolation.

Angel Silva isn’t just from the wrong side of the tracks—she’s on the wrong side of the law. She’s desperate to break free from her dangerous brother and his gang, but when a sexy new recruit joins them, Angel is more trapped than ever—because the ruthless Tonio Reyes isn’t what he seems. When she discovers the man she’s falling for is one of Sugarland’s finest, she’s forced to go on the run.

Instead of taking Angel into custody, Tonio finds himself risking his career to keep her safe. And as the beautiful woman tears down all his defenses, Tonio realizes he’ll risk his very life to set her free.

REVIEW:
3.5 Hearts As always Ms. Davis takes us on a wild journey of ups and downs. But there was something off on this story for me. I can’t say the story was not good because it was. I just personally felt a little discounted to the characters. I have loved Tonio in the prior stories was really excited to read his story. So I can’t really put my finger on the discount, but I do believe it was all me.
I plan on re-reading On the Run when I personally am in a better mind frame.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley & PENGUIN GROUP Berkley, NAL / Signet Romance, DAW in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

April 17, 2015April 16, 2015

Blog Tour & Giveaway: Obsessed by Beth Ciotta

A Fallen Star…

A hot-mess of controversy and scandal, Dakota Breeze—tarnished pop star of fading fame and fortune—accepts a friend’s offer, taking refuge in a small Midwestern town in order to rehearse her comeback concert in secret. Starstruck is the perfect venue however rehearsals are marred by Dakota’s reluctance to resurrect her former bad-girl persona and complicated by an anonymous death threat.

A Haunted Bodyguard…

Enlisted by a mutual friend, Wyatt MacDermott—a seasoned protection specialist—agrees to act as Dakota’s temporary bodyguard. Forced to set aside a personal grudge in order to fulfill his duties, Mac’s stunned by his fierce and instant attraction to the reckless celebrity he’s long associated with his greatest regret.

Obsessed with conflicting needs and united passion, Dakota and Wyatt spin out of control, indulging in a whirlwind affair and tempting an avenger’s wrath.

Amazon/B&N

Dakota palmed her aching chest, fought for an even breath as Mac steered the sedan through the gates to her temporary residence. She hadn’t meant to spew or to beg. She didn’t want his pity.

But she did want him.

For all his indifference, he made her feel safe. At this point she’d welcome anything, even the company of Ice Man, to minimize her stress. Stress messed with her concentration and judgment, undermining her on-stage performances and her pursuit of private serenity.

Feeling exposed and raw, Dakota pushed her agenda. “So are you with me or not?”

He didn’t respond. Of course, he didn’t respond. The man was a freaking robot.

The car stopped just shy of the house and, with a white-knuckled hold on her purse, Dakota pushed open her door. Her shoulder sang with the effort, but she didn’t groan or complain or even wince. Mac was right. She was lucky to be alive.

She blocked his cold rejection from her mind, focused on Maggie. She needed to check on her ailing assistant and she didn’t want to compound matters by looking like a frazzled mess.

A startled scream stuck in her throat as her new bodyguard backed her against the car.

“One,” he said, spearing her with steely grey eyes, “You don’t move without telling me first. Two: As soon as we get in the house, I want that letter. Three: I say jump, you jump. I’m talking unflinching trust, Dakota.”

It was the most he’d said to her since they’d met and even though he’d done nothing but issue arrogant orders, a strange sense of calm snaked through her tense being. Pinned between the tank of a car and her broad-shouldered bodyguard, Dakota held his gaze and raised onto her toes, her mouth a breath away from his own. “For me to jump, MacDermott, I need to know something other than ice flows through your veins.”

And with that she indulged in one last impulsive act. She pressed her lips to his, anticipating rejection.

Anticipating Antarctica.

Instead, he blew her away, melting her bones with a deep, searing kiss. His touch, his taste, his passion dazed her far more than any spinning car. Who could think straight with his strong hands exploring her curves? With his massive erection raging between them?

Dakota gave over to the intensity, the wonder, the mind-blowing melding that obliterated morality. Just shy of her jumping his freaking bones, Mac cooled her jets by backing away.

“Now you know,” he said as he reverted to professional indifference. “And if you’re smart, you’ll leave it at that.”

About the Author:

Storytelling comes naturally to award-winning author Beth Ciotta. Dubbed “fun and sexy” by Publisher’s Weekly, Beth specializes in contemporary, historical, steampunk, and paranormal romantic fiction.
Beth lives in NJ with her husband, two zany dogs, and a crazy cat. A retired professional performer, Beth now pours her artistic passion into her writing. To learn more about her colorful life, visit her website at www.bethciotta.com

Website/Twitter/Facebook

Jennifer’s Review of Obsessed

Review (4 Stars): I loved Obsessed and was sad that this story wasn’t longer. The chemistry between Dakota and Mac was so hot that smoke was coming of the pages from these two. Mac was so stoic and distant when he first met Dakota because he blamed her for what had happened to his sister. After spending time with her, he couldn’t fight the attraction that he felt for her and Dakota felt the same way about him.

I enjoyed the mystery of discovering the identity of the person that was stalking Dakota and trying to prevent her from returning to the stage which added just the right amount of suspense to this sexy romance. I’m a big fan of Ms Ciotta’s cupcake series and I’m definitely looking forward to reading the next two books in the Starstruck series. Obsessed is a hot sexy thrill-ride and I have a feeling that I will revisit this story in the future.

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April 16, 2015April 12, 2015

Kimberly reviews The Girls Of Mischief Bay by Susan Mallery

TITLE: The Girls Of Mischief Bay
SERIES #: Mischief #1
CHARACTERS: Nicole & Shannon & Pam
AUTHOR: Susan Mallery
PUBLICATION DATE: 02/24/15
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Susan Mallery, the New York Times bestselling author of Three Sisters, is world renowned for her “insightful, funny, and poignant” stories (Booklist). With her brand-new Mischief Bay series, she brings vivid color to the story of three friends on the brink of a new life.

Nicole Lord wants to be a good wife, but there’s a difference between being supportive and supporting her husband, who quit his job to write a screenplay she’s never seen. He won’t even help take care of their son, leaving Nicole to run the house and work full-time.

Sacrificing a personal life for her career is how Shannon Rigg became VP at her firm, but she wonders now whether she made the right choice. An exciting new relationship with a great guy convinces her that it might not be too late—until he drops a bombshell that has her questioning whether she really can have it all.

Although Pam Eiland adores her husband, she feels restless now that the kids are grown. Finding sexy new ways to surprise him brings the heat and humor back to their marriage, but when unexpected change turns her life upside down, she’ll have to redefine herself. Again.

Through romance and heartbreak, laughter and tears, the girls of Mischief Bay will discover that life is richer with friends at your side.

REVIEW:
I’ll be honest. I love the works of Susan Mallery but my favorites are part of the Fool’s Gold series. But every year she adds another book to a trilogy series and this is the first of the new Mischief Bay series. And while wonderful it is not Fools Gold.

The three women of this story are so different and yet somehow they mesh together. Their lives are going through some growing pains and they are having a hard time figuring out what to do so they rely on each other.

The story is heartwarming and while a delightful read the trilogy series Mallery writes always has a moral to it and this one is no different. But you need to read the story to know what that moral is.

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

April 15, 2015April 14, 2015

Blog Tour & Giveaway: Demise in Denim by Duffy Brown

Walker Boone here from the lovely city of Savannah, Georgia. The azaleas are in bloom, the magnolias are big as dinner plates and I’m on the run.

In Demise in Denim, I’ve kind of gotten myself into one big huge mess and it looks like Reagan Summerside and Auntie KiKi are the only ones trying to get me out of it.

You see there was this dead guy in a bathtub. Not my bathtub but his own and my housekeeper happened to stumble across the body. If I remember right it went something like…

“See, there he is, Mr. Boone,” Mercedes said to me. “Just like I told you on the phone, Conway Adkins dead as a fence post in his very own claw-foot bathtub and naked as the day he was born.”
“I take you added the washcloth?” I said to Mercedes, both of us standing in the doorway and staring at the corpse.
“Couldn’t be having the man laying there with his shrivelness all exposed to the world now could I. Not proper for a man his age.”
“Or for the rest of us,” I added.

At first Mercedes was the number one suspect. That was bad enough because she’s a friend and she can’t be beat as a housekeeper. On both accounts–and with my dust-bunnies threatening to mutiny—I went after the rear killer.

I didn’t have a lot of luck, in fact I almost got killed a few times and then…somehow…I wound up the number one suspect.

“This is circumstantial evidence,” I said to Reagan as we stood on the sidewalk outside my house. “The police have to see that someone’s setting me up to cover their own butt.”
     “It’s your butt that needs covering, Walker Boone,” Reagan offered. “The police found your .38 and it matches the bullet that killed Conway. The cops are on their way. You got to get out of here right now.”
      I looked at my red ‘57 Chevy convertible parked at the curb. “Might as well put a target on my back driving this thing.”
      Reagan shoved her helmet at me.      “Take Princess.”
     “A scooter? You want me to ride a pink scooter named Princess?”
     “Better than that being your nickname in the big house.”

Reagan was a big help in me getting away but it might not be enough:

The convertible top was down, a crescent moon hung low over the marshlands and the night sky was filled with a bazillion stars as I drove Walker Boone’s precious ’57 red Chevy toward Tybee Post. It was a perfect spring night except that my palms were sweating, my heart was rocketing around in my chest, and there were one, two, make that four police cars on my bumper, their red and blue lights flashing in my rearview mirror.

I need a place to hide out but where? Where would you go if you were on the run? Who would help you out? Let me know and I’ll give away two Demise In Denim totes from the answers. Wish me luck.

About the Author:

Duffy Brown loves anything with a mystery. While others girls dreamed of dating Brad Pitt, Duffy longed to take Sherlock Holmes to the prom. She has two cats, Spooky and Dr. Watson, her license plate is Sherlok and she conjures up who-done-it stories of her very own for Berkley Prime Crime. Duffy’s national bestselling Consignment Shop Mystery series is set in Savannah and the Cycle Path Mysteries are set on Mackinac Island.

Website/Facebook

It’s springtime in Savannah, Georgia, in the newest Consignment Shop Mystery from the national bestselling author of Pearls and Poison. The azaleas and magnolias are in bloom—and Walker Boone is on the run. . .

When Reagan Summerside turned the first floor of her old Victorian home into a consignment shop, she never imagined she’d be harboring a fugitive in her attic. But after a dead man is found in a bathtub and local lawyer Walker Boone is accused of doing the dirty deed, she suddenly has a new houseguest.

Having the lawyer who took her to the cleaners in her divorce settlement—and who has been getting under her skin ever since—in close proximity is enough to drive Reagan to distraction. For the sake of her sanity—and Walker’s freedom—they need to put their heads together to find out who is trying to get the lawyer out of the picture . . .

Amazon/B&N

Jennifer’s Review of Demise in Denim

Review (4.5 Stars): I want to warn everyone first that Demise in Denim picks up right after the events of Dead Man Walker, which is a novella that was released in earlier this year. It would be helpful to read this first but if you are already familiar with these characters then you are able to follow along with the story rather quickly. Boone is wanted for murder and it is up to Reagan to figure out the identity of the killer who is trying to frame Boone for a crime he didn’t commit.

I absolutely love this series because I can’t stop myself from laughing as I read all the crazy antics that Reagan seems to find herself in with each book. I enjoyed seeing how Reagan and Boone’s romantic relationship was progressing in Demise in Denim and I’m happy to say that I had a huge smile on my face by the end of the book. Demise in Denim is a charming mystery with the right dose of southern sass and hospitality that always has me coming back for me. I adore Reagan and I can’t wait to see what is up next for her and Boone in the future.

Giveaway

I’m excited to give away a copy of Demise in Denim. This giveaway is for US Residents only. To be entered in the drawing by April 22nd, please answer Duffy’s question above:

April 15, 2015April 12, 2015

Natasha reviews According to Hoyle by Abigail Roux

TITLE: According to Hoyle
CHARACTERS: Flynn, Wash, Rose & Cage
AUTHOR: Abigail Roux
PUBLICATION DATE: 12/29/14
ORDER LINKS:Amazon| B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
By the close of 1882, the inhabitants of the American West had earned their reputation as untamed and dangerous. The line between heroes and villains is narrow and indistinct. The concept that a man may only kill if backed into a corner is antiquated. Lives are worth less than horses. Treasures are worth killing for. And the law is written in the blood of those who came before. The only men staving off total chaos are the few who take the letter of the law at its word and risk their lives to uphold it. But in the West, the rules aren’t always played according to Hoyle.
U.S. Marshals Eli Flynn and William Henry Washington are escorting two prisoners to New Orleans for trial when they discover there’s more to the infamous shootist Dusty Rose and the enigmatic man known only as Cage than merely being outlaws. When forces beyond the marshals’ control converge on the paddlewheeler they have hired to take them downriver, they must choose between two dangers: playing by the rules at any cost or trusting the very men they are meant to bring to justice.

REVIEW:
I did not anticipate liking this book at all, I do not like Westerns. However, I’m a huge fan of Abigail Roux’s Cut & Run series so figured I’d give this one a try. I actually loved this book. As always Roux’s characters have extremely strong and likable personalities. You’re instantly connected to each character to the point that you forget you’re reading a book. It is a m/m story, but nothing too bad that would make you blush. The relationships were organic and real and I was completely engrossed. There was a pivotal scene in the book that I personally felt went on way too long. I got kinda bored with that part of the story, but I understand her reasoning for it. The characters kept it alive for me at that time, but I was ready for a change of scenery by the end. As far as I can tell there is no plan for a sequel to this book, however I would definitely read one. I’m still interested in these characters and would love to see more of them.

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

April 14, 2015April 12, 2015

Kimberly reviews Cursed By Fire by Jacquelyn Frank

TITLE: Cursed By Fire
SERIES #: Immortal Brothers #1
CHARACTERS: Dethan & Selinda
AUTHOR: Jacquelyn Frank
PUBLICATION DATE: 02/24/15
ORDER LINKS: :Amazon| B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
From New York Times bestselling author Jacquelyn Frank comes the scorching hot first book in a thrilling new series featuring four warrior brothers who have the power—and the curse—of immortality.

For centuries, Dethan has been trapped in a fiery inferno for defying the gods and snatching the power of immortality. Condemned to have his battle-hardened body licked by flames only to regenerate and be consumed all over again, Dethan has lost all hope—until the Goddess of Conflict appears. She will release him from torment—if he’ll use his power and strength as a warrior to raise an army and defeat a fierce enemy faction of gods.

Free to live as a man once again, Dethan meets Selinda—heir to the throne of Hexis—and his thoughts quickly turn from the conquest of cities to the conquest of this headstrong beauty. Betrothed to a cruel, calculating powermonger, Selinda needs a champion, and so Dethan enters into another bargain: If she will share her bed—and her body—with him, Dethan will save her city from destructive forces within and without. As the lovers ignite a searing passion, Dethan will risk all—even the wrath of the Goddess of Conflict—for a chance to make Selinda his forever.

REVIEW:
I was worried about starting a new series from an author that I recently found. I enjoy the other series so would I like this one? The answer is yes. I enjoyed it very much.

Dethan is a great character. He is a conflicted character who never believed he could find something as great as being a warrior but then he finds love. Selinda was just ok for me. She was hard to get to like but eventually I did.

Give this new series a try.

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

April 13, 2015April 12, 2015

Blog Tour & Giveaway: A Sticky Situation by Jessie Crockett

The author of Maple Mayhem returns to Sugar Grove, New Hampshire, where the Greene family—including Dani’s irksome Aunt Hazel—are busy preparing for the annual Maple Festival. But nothing kills the festive spirit like murder…

Aunt Hazel isn’t exactly sweet, but she’s not the only one putting syrup maker Dani in a sour mood. Her family is trying to help renovate the town’s Opera House, but their contractor Russ Collins seems to specialize in finely crafted excuses. And his latest one is killer.

In the Opera House basement, Russ uncovers the remains of Spooner Duffy, a charming drifter thought to have skipped town decades ago with a hefty sum of the town’s money. Tapping into some unpleasant memories, Spooner’s bones also threaten to reveal a murderer’s secret, and now it’s up to Dani to catch a killer before the town is stuck with a deadly reputation.

Amazon/B&N

About the Author:

A nearly life-

long resident of the Granite State, Jessie naturally adores black flies, 98% humidity, killing frosts in August and snow banks taller than the average grandmother.

When not working on her next murderous adventure she enthusiastically combs the beach, designs bento lunches and throws parties. She delights in mentoring young writers at local schools.

Her debut mystery, Live Free or Die, was the 2011 winner of the Daphne DuMaurier Award for Mainstream Mystery.

Jessie lives with her dark and mysterious husband and exuberant children in a village so small most other New Hampshire residents have never heard of it. Hearing from readers makes the winter seem shorter so please drop her a line.

Website/Twitter/Facebook

Jennifer’s Review of A Sticky Situation

Review (4 Stars): This is the third book in the Sugar Grove mystery series and I absolutely adored Dani in this book. I loved the humor that was sprinkled throughout this book and the lengths that Dani and her family went to trying to avoid spending time with Aunt Hazel. The mystery was very entertaining because it was very complex and well-written and is bound to please cozy readers alike. A Sticky Situation was a fun romp with fascinating characters and a spunky heroine that is absolutely delightful. Looking forward to read the next book in the series to see what Dani finds herself involved in next.

Giveaway

I’m excited to give away a copy of A Sticky Situation. This giveaway is for US Residents only. To be entered in the drawing by April 19th, please leave me a comment below:

April 13, 2015April 12, 2015

Kelly reviews Fury of Obsession by Coreene Callahan

TITLE: Fury of Obsession
SERIES #: Dragonfury #5
CHARACTERS: Venom & Evelyn Foxe
AUTHOR: Coreene Callahan
NARRATOR: Cole Ferguson
PUBLICATION DATE: February 24, 2015
RUN TIME: 12 Hours & 37 Minutes
ORDER LINKS:Amazon| B&N | Audible

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
He can’t escape the sins of his past…

Toxic to all those who touch him, dragon-warrior Venom lives in self-imposed isolation, a prisoner of the poison in his veins. But when a chance meeting with a woman challenges the belief he is destined to be alone, he pulls out all the stops, vowing to put the savagery of his past behind him and take a chance on love.

She doesn’t want to face her future…

Wanted by the Russian mob, creative accountant Evelyn Foxe isn’t looking for love. She searching for the fastest way to escape instead. When Venom offers to get her out of trouble, she accepts his help, but remains skeptical, afraid he’s in league with those sent to harm her. But when someone unleashes a biological weapon in her hometown, and she gets caught in the firestorm, little choice remains—trust Venom to keep her safe or risk her life by going it alone.

REVIEW:
Venom is the one Dragonfury warrior that never thought he would ever find his mate. Yet a night of going AWOL Venom has done just that. Despite everything thing that make him up he finally found her. But being the hopeless romantic he is, Venom wants to woo Evelyn the way a human would. But that means letting her walk away.
By walking away, Evelyn just went from the fry pan into the fire.

Evelyn Foxe has not been have a good couple of months. First she get’s fired, then she finds out that mob is after her because of her mother, and lastly she finds herself doing something she never would have ever thought she would have to do. But when her first John walks through the door there is something, something very strange about this man. Yet, she is drawn to him.
But she must walk away. Because if she doesn’t walk away right now you may never want to leave him ever.

Venom!!!! Yay!!! Finally Venom get’s his story.

I enjoyed Venom story, although I was a little sad that Venom had to share so much of his story with Ivar and Gage. These storylines are important to the series, but I really wanted more of Venom. There were also a few questions and topics that I felt were left unresolved. I am hoping that we will get some closure on these in the next book. Overall, I loved Venom’s story.

We got a new narrator for Fury of Obsession. This is the first time that I have listened to Cole Ferguson. I will say that at first I was a little confused and sad, mostly because I was use to the old narrator. But after a little bit and a few chapters I started to enjoy Cole. I will say that I think he did Venom perfectly *fans self*. I mean come on Venom is danger wrapped in yummy.

I am looking forward to the next book in this series and I hope that Cole will continue as the narrator. Question is who is next?

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

April 13, 2015April 12, 2015

Blog Tour & Giveaway: The Courtesan Duchess by Joanna Shupe

Can a bold-faced lie lead to everlasting love? One by one, the impetuous heroines in the Wicked Deceptions series intend to find out, each in her unique way…

How to seduce an estranged husband—and banish debt!—in four wickedly improper, shockingly pleasurable steps…
Learn the most intimate secrets of London’s leading courtesan.
Pretend to be a courtesan yourself, using the name Juliet Leighton.
Travel to Venice and locate said husband.
Seduce husband, conceive an heir, and voila, your future is secure!

For Julia, the Duchess of Colton, such a ruse promises to be foolproof. After all, her husband has not bothered to lay eyes on her in eight years, since their hasty wedding day when she was only sixteen. But what begins as a tempestuous flirtation escalates into full-blown passion—and the feeling is mutual!

Could the man the Courtesan Duchess married actually turn out to be the love of her life?

Amazon/B&N

A smart woman may transform herself into whatever
the situation requires.
—Miss Pearl Kelly to the Duchess of Colton

Venice, November 1816

Julia needed a male child, a legitimate one, to serve as the heir to the Colton estate. Only then could she thwart Templeton’s designs on the dukedom.

Her plan was foolproof. Six months ago, Julia had sold off all her remaining jewelry in order to secretly hire Pearl Kelly, London’s true reigning courtesan, to offer advice. Pearl had proved a veritable fount of information, telling Julia precisely how to dress, act, speak, and flirt like a Cyprian.

Pearl had even helped design Julia’s gowns along with the courtesan’s own modiste. The resulting wardrobe was luxurious and elegant with sumptuous fabrics and daring necklines, such as the deep emerald green gown she wore tonight. The undergarments had been ordered from Paris, and they still made Julia blush.

Her jewelry had posed a problem, since every good piece she’d owned had been sold off over the past two years. So Pearl had graciously loaned Julia several stunning sets, which included the expensive diamond and pearl necklace now around her neck.

Julia had also learned how to use creams and paints to best enhance her features. Earlier, she’d applied a dusting of white pearl powder on her face, rose pink rouge on her lips and cheeks, and a light coating of lamp-black on her lashes and eyebrows. The enhancements combined with her red hair made her completely unrecognizable to anyone familiar with the blond and understated Duchess of Colton.

They ventured near the duke. After a moment, Colton looked up and his face registered surprise. “Winchester!” He threw his cards on the table and unfolded his lanky frame to stand before them. “I can scarcely believe it. Why didn’t you write to let me know you were coming?”

Simon managed to look surprised, then slapped Colton on the back. “I’d heard a rumor you were still here, old man.”

“I cannot find a reason to leave.” Colton turned to Julia, focusing on her with polite interest. “I see you are not alone. Pray introduce me.”

“Of course. Colton, meet the inimitable Mrs. Juliet Leighton. Juliet, this wastrel is my oldest friend, the Duke of Colton.”

She dropped into a deep curtsy and watched from under her lashes as her husband took in the shockingly low neckline of her gown, where her ample bosom threatened to make an appearance at any moment. “Mrs. Leighton, your reputation precedes you,” the duke said as she rose. “I’ve heard nothing but accolades to your beauty and wit. It is said you are the woman who holds all of London in the palm of her hand.”

Julia was relieved to hear the rumors they’d started had reached her husband’s ears. “Perhaps not all of London, Your Grace, but a fortunate few have indeed felt the palm of my hand.”

A black eyebrow shot up, and he gave a devilish grin that would surely melt the insides of a weaker woman. “Winchester, I am beginning to envy you,” Colton murmured, his smoky gray gaze never leaving hers.

“As you should. I am entirely at Mrs. Leighton’s whim.” Simon’s intimate smile left no doubt as to the nature of their relationship.

“You flatter me,” Julia said in her best coquettish voice. “Simon, darling, please leave His Grace and I alone for a few moments. Be a good lad and fetch me some champagne.”

Simon flashed her a besotted glance that would’ve had Julia laughing under any other circumstance.

“Anything for you, love.” He walked away to leave Julia alone with the husband she hadn’t seen in eight years.

She should be tongue-tied, she thought, as she regarded the man who wielded enormous power over her, even from such a great distance. But considering the hot gleam of male interest in Colton’s eyes, the way he studied her carefully, Julia knew the control now lay in her own hands.

“Your Grace,” she started, then boldly moved closer and took his arm. “I feel as if we already know one another.” Julia led him toward the terrace doors.

“Do you?” He deftly maneuvered them around other couples and placed his large hand on the small of her back as they continued outside into the cool darkness. “If we had met, Mrs. Leighton, I am quite sure I would remember.”

“Oh, you must call me Juliet. All my good friends do.”

“Then, by all means, you must call me Nick. I’ve never been fond of my title.” Tall and lithe, he leaned casually against the terrace railing, the backdrop a surprisingly clean stretch of canal. He was even more handsome up close. His shoulders were broad, and power lurked beneath his finely tailored clothing. She suddenly felt so . . . alive and edgy in his wickedly alluring presence. Little wonder her husband had become such a rake and scoundrel.

“If you insist, Nick,” she drawled while noticing the way he studied her lips. “Are we to be friends, then?”

“I certainly hope so.” His face softened with a flirtatious smile and her knees went weak, the power of
that small gesture warming her down to her toes. “Are you enjoying Venice, Juliet?”

“It is a lovely place. This is my first trip, and I must confess it’s nothing as I imagined. The food is superb and they are passionate, friendly people. And you? Have you been here long?”

“About three years. Before that Vienna, Cologne, Paris. . . .”

“And do you plan to return to our fair England one day?”

His features tightened ever so slightly. “No. I have no plans to return. There is naught there for me now.”

Rage blossomed in her chest, hot and strong. How dare he. Naught there for him—even a wife? Although her hand itched to smack his cheek, Julia forced what she hoped was an intimate expression and dropped her voice to a husky purr. “My luck, then, in meeting you here.”

“Indeed. And just when I’d thought Venice had grown boring. Have you known Winchester long?”

“No, not long. Though he’s spoken of you. I understand you’ve been friends forever.”

“It’s true. Since Eton, actually. We—”

“Here you are, love.” Simon appeared with a glass of champagne.

“So, Winchester,” the duke began, “tell me how you’ve been getting on the last two years.”

Two years! Julia gasped and almost choked on a mouthful of champagne. Simon had seen her husband two years ago? If Colton weren’t standing here, she would give Simon a good kick in the leg for not telling her.“I find myself remarkably well. And you?”

“I enjoy it here,” Colton responded lightly. “The Venetians are quite pleasant, despite the resentment of the Austrian presence. I had thought, however, to travel to St. Petersburg next year.”

“It’s been eight years. Do you not think enough time has passed—”

“Do not say it.” Colton’s voice took on an edge and his face darkened. “After our last row, I thought you agreed to cease hounding me to return.”

“But really, Colt. Your wife deserves—”

“Oh, you mean my father’s pawn?” He straightened to his full height. “Cease immediately. Do not make me regret keeping you informed of my whereabouts all these years.”

Pawn? What on earth? Julia could scarcely wait to get Simon alone in order to get answers.

Simon held up his hands in surrender. “I have no wish to quarrel with you. Especially in front of such a beautiful woman.” He slid his arm around Julia and gave her shoulders a reassuring squeeze.

Her face a mask of polite civility, she focused on the duke. “Your Grace, we plan to attend the performance of Tancredi at La Fenice the evening after tomorrow. Perhaps you would care to join us?”

“I had already planned to attend, in fact,” Colton replied, his posture once again relaxed. “I would be honored if you both would join the party in my box.”

Julia tried to look surprised though she’d already known his plans. Simon’s valet had convinced one of the duke’s maids to give them information on Colton’s daily social schedule. More chance meetings with Mrs. Leighton were in Colton’s future. “That would be lovely, Your Grace. I shall look forward to it.”

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 Courtesan Duchess

Review (5 Stars): I was so impressed with Julia over the course of this story because she went to great lengths to find her husband and set her plan in motion to save her family. She played a wonderful role to attract the attention of Nick and the chemistry between them was explosive. You could tell that these two characters were meant for each other and I loved the interaction between the two.

Once I started this story, I stayed up all night reading it because I became so involved with these charming characters and this well-written romance. The Courtesan Duchess is the first in a brand new series and I’m already a big fan of this amazing writer. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series, The Harlot Countess, which is out in the next couple of months.

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April 13, 2015April 12, 2015

Blog Tour & Giveaway: A Fright to the Death by Dawn Eastman

From the author of Be Careful What You Witch For, here is the newest Family Fortune Mystery, starring former cop Clyde Fortune, who—snowbound with her kooky family in a creepy castle—is climbing the walls and combing the halls, looking for a cold-blooded killer…

After their flight to Mexico is cancelled, Clyde and her detective boyfriend, Mac, end up snowed in with their families at a supposedly haunted hotel. Clyde’s tarot card reading mother, Rose, is making dire predictions for the weekend, and self-proclaimed pet psychic Aunt Vi is enchanted by the legend of the hotel’s ghost—until the power goes out and a body turns up.

With a hotel full of stranded suspects, Clyde will have to draw on all her skills—both the police ones she’d rather forget and the psychic ones she’d rather ignore—to solve the bone-chilling mystery before someone else gets iced…

Amazon/B&N

About the Author:

When I was ten years old, my two favorite things were climbing trees and reading. As a bonus, I discovered if I combined the two, I could hide from my mother when she wanted me to clean my room. Nancy Drew and I spent many afternoons solving crimes and avoiding chores. Eventually, I moved on to Hercule Poirot, Sherlock Holmes, and Stephanie Plum. I improved my housework-dodging ploys.

After many years in Michigan, I now live in Iowa with my husband, son and daughter. When I’m not writing or chauffeuring kids, I keep busy catering to the whims of a bossy bichon-shih tzu mix who wants to rule the world.

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Jennifer’s Review of A Fright to the Death

Review (4.5 Stars): Clyde and Mac are headed to a romantic getaway in Mexico when a horrible snow storm shuts down everything including their flight to their destination. Determined to make the best of the situation, Mac takes Clyde to a charming hotel that he had heard a lot about only to discover that Clyde’s family is there for a knitting convention. Things go from bad to worse, when a body is found and the killer is trapped right along with them because of the snowstorm. Now Mac and Clyde must find a killer before they decide to take their next victim.

It is always a treat to visit the charmingly eccentric characters of Crystal Haven and each book in this series is more delightful than the last. I loved how Clyde and Mac’s relationship was progressing by the end of the book and I felt so sorry for them that they ended up at the last place they wanted to be while on vacation. A Fright to the Death is a hauntingly fun mystery filled with thrills and chills, that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Can’t wait to read more from my favorite magical family in the next book.

Giveaway

I’m excited to give away a copy of A Fright to the Death. This giveaway is for US Residents only. To be entered in the drawing by April 19th, please leave me a comment below for Dawn:

April 12, 2015April 12, 2015