Interview & Giveaway with Grace Burrowes

Books-n-Kisses is please to welcome Grace Burrowes to the blog today.

Grace, can you please share with us a little about yourself
GB: I’m a lifelong reader of romances, single mom, child welfare attorney, horse girl, and oh, yeah… historical romance author.

Have you always wanted to be an author?

GB: I am still ambivalent about being a “published” author—publication changes things, and can reduce the time available for writing—but I’ve always loved to write. Once upon a time, though, one of my keeper authors wrote a book that just did not work for me. I started my first manuscript to exorcise that disappointment, and twenty more manuscripts quickly followed.

Are you a plotter or a pantser or combo of both? And you explain the difference?
GB: I think everybody is some combination. I tend to have a general sense of what the character and dramatic arcs will be for my protagonists, but that often changes in the course of drafting the book. Mostly, I focus on coming up with a strong opening scene, one that will impel all the characters’ fears, regrets, and mayhem FORWARD. I think of a pantser as somebody who doesn’t start writing until they have a completed outline. I envy that degree of organization.

What is your most interesting writing quirk?
GB: Hmm. There come times in EVERY book when I stare at the computer and think, “I can’t finish this one. This is tripe. This is never going to work. Who thought up this baloney and why am trying to make a book out of it?” We talk about the romance novel having a big, black moment. What a lovely idea—only one big, black moment per book! For my writing process, there are MANY big black moments.

Can you please tell us about your latest book Once Upon a Tartan?
GB: Once Upon a Tartan is the second book in my Scottish Victorian MacGregor Trilogy, which amounts to a tug of war over a child’s best interests between two people who are reluctantly falling love, though neither is the child’s parent or guardian. Toss in some betrayal, some naughty Latin, and the lovely, long Highland evenings, and much mischief ensues.

How did you come with the idea for this story?
GB: My editor told me early on that part of my job is to torture the hero. One of the best ways to do that is to make him choose between competing demands of honor. In this case, Tiberius Flynn, Earl of Spathfoy, must choose between the father relying on Tye to attend to family duty, and the woman Tye’s falling in love with, Hester Daniels, who hopes he’ll put honor above duty. Tough choice, for a (secretly) tender-hearted man…

Can you share with us your current work(s) in progress?
GB: I’m working on a 2014 Christmas story for Tiberius’s sister, Lady Joan Flynn. Christmas is approaching, and all she wants is a husband—any husband, provided he’s willing to marry her immediately.

Who is the one author that you would love to meet someday and why?

GB: I have met Joanna Bourne, Mary Balogh, Jennifer Ashely, Loretta Chase, JR Ward, and Julie Anne Long. I guess that leaves Judith Ivory. I’d like to meet her to tell her how very much her books means to me, how many difficulties they got me through, and how I admire her prodigious talent. I’d also like to put a personality with all those wonderful stories.

What is the best piece of advice you would give to someone that wants to get into writing?
GB: WRITE. Write more than you aspire to write, write more than you plan to write, talk about writing, or meet with other writers. Go quietly amid the noise and haste that is the pre-published author’s burden, but mostly, WRITE.

Can you share with us something off your bucket list?
GB: I’ve studied French, German, Spanish, and Latin, but I’ve never been fluent in a foreign language. I’d love to spend an entire summer in Scotland. I want to get my bronze medal as a dressage rider.

What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for?
GB: Eloisa James’s Once Upon a Tower. EJ is one of my original keeper authors, and that book is pure, unalloyed GOLD.

What is one book everyone should read before they die?
GB: Well. The Structure of Scientific Revolutions. This very readable little tome busts the myth that scientific progress is rational, and explains why so often truth, particularly a new truth, does not carry the day. In these interesting times, that explanation is a comfort, as is the realization that truth does eventually win out, though it can take a generation or two for the paradigm shift to take hold.

What is your favorite time of year and why?
GB: Autumn. I always perk up when the weather cools off, the light gets sharper, and the days shorter.

Who is your Celebrity crush? And what would you do if you ever meet him/her?
GB: The Dalai Lama. If I met him, I would thank him for consistently speaking reason and kindness in a world that can be unreasonable and unkind.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

GB: THANKS!!!

ONCE UPON A TARTAN

by GRACE BURROWES

IN STORES AUGUST 2013

Honor or happiness—he can’t have both.

Tiberius Flynn may be every inch an English lord, but smart, headstrong beauty Hester Daniels has no use for his high-handed ways–no matter how handsome, charming, or beguiling he is. They only see eye to eye in caring about the feisty little girl who is under their protection.

Tiberius’s haughty insistence that his wealthy estate in England is a better place for the child than her beloved, rundown Scotland home sparks Hester’s fierce protectiveness, and the battle lines are drawn.

Praise for Once Upon a Tartan:

“Burrowes creates a powerful story replete with heartfelt emotion and rich characterization… An instant keeper.” —RT Book Reviews, 4 ½ stars, Top Pick of the Month

“Expert prose, likeable characters, realistic relationships, and believable complications create a pleasant and satisfying keeper.” —Publishers Weekly

“Warmth, sensuality, and humor infuse Burrowes’ writing, and fans of Suzanne Enoch and Sarah MacLean should enjoy this series.” —Booklist

“Grace Burrowes weaves her magic with words… a memorable love story—excellent and exquisite.” — A Long and Short Reviews Best Book

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Grace Burrowes is the author of the acclaimed Windham Family Series, The MacGregor Trilogy and The Lonely Lords Series. Her debut novel, The Heir (2010), as well as The Bridegroom Wore Plaid (2012) were both included as Publishers Weekly Best Books of their respective years, in the romance category. A practicing attorney specializing in family law, Grace lives in rural Maryland, where she is working on the final book in the Windham series, Lady Jenny’s Christmas Portrait (October 2013) and third MacGregor story, The MacGregor’s Lady (February 2014), and many more books. Visit her website at www.graceburrowes.com for more information about all of her books, exclusive extras and her lively blog.

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GIVEAWAYS ALL MONTH LONG!!!!

Giveaway Schedule—chances to win all month long!
8/1 Book Hounds<http://maryinhb.blogspot.com/>
8/2 RomFan Reviews<http://www.romfanreviews.com/>
8/5 In the Hammock<http://inthehammockblog.blogspot.com/>
8/6 Book Girl of Mur-y-Castell<http://books-forlife.blogspot.com/>
8/7 Manga Maniac Café<http://www.mangamaniaccafe.com/>
8/8 What’s on the Bookshelf<http://whatsonthebookshelf-jen.blogspot.com/>
8/9 The Royal Reviews<http://theroyalreviews.blogspot.com/>
8/12 Joan Swan’s Blog<http://joanswan.com/blog/>
8/13 Cocktails and Books<http://www.cocktailsandbooks.com/>
8/14 Romancing the Book<http://romancing-the-book.com/>
8/15 Ramblings from this Chick<http://ramblingsfromthischick.blogspot.com/>
8/16 Books-n-Kisses<http://www.books-n-kisses.com/>
8/19 Anna’s Book Blog<http://annavivian.blogspot.com/>
8/20 The Book Girl<http://www.thebookgirl.net/>
8/21 The Reading Café<http://thereadingcafe.com/>
8/22 Seductive Musings<seductivemusings.blogspot.com>
8/23 Peeking Between the Pages<http://www.peekingbetweenthepages.com/>
8/26 Love Romance Passion<http://www.loveromancepassion.com/>
8/27 So Many Precious Books, So Little Time<http://teddyrose.blogspot.com/>
8/28 Thoughts in Progress<http://masoncanyon.blogspot.com/>
8/29 Debbie’s Book Bag<http://debsbookbag.blogspot.com/>
8/30 Linus’ Blanket<http://www.linussblanket.com/>

August 16, 2013August 14, 2013

Interview & tour wide giveaway with Lilliana Anderson

Books-n-Kisses is pleased to welcome Lillian Anderson to the blog today.

Lillian, can you please share with us a little about yourself

Sure, I’m a full time author and mum of four kids, and I started writing officially almost a year ago when I got tired of my mother in law saying she was going to write her life story. I told her that the only way we would get any peace was if I did it for her. She agreed, and that’s how the Confidante Trilogy, and my writing addiction started.

Have you always wanted to be an author?

I’ve always loved writing, but I felt that being an author was one of those dream jobs that only very few people happened upon. I was studying to be an industrial relations advocate originally, but my life took a slightly different path which eventually led me to where I am now.

Are you a plotter or a punster or combo of both? And you explain the difference?

Um, I would say l’m a plotter. I spend a lot of time talking through my plot with my husband before I start writing, so I’m very clear on what is happening when I start. I also tend to write, very briefly, what is to happen in each chapter just so I can close the laptop at the end of each day without the characters yelling details at me all night.

What is your most interesting writing quirk?

That I always write a book twice. The first time it’s just a pile of bones shaped somewhat like a skeleton, but the second time I give it flesh and bring it all to life. I feel as though I can’t write the flesh of a story until I’ve had feedback on the bones.

Can you please tell us about your latest book(s)?

I’ve just released Too Close which is a companion book to A Beautiful Struggle. It more thoroughly explains the friendship between David and Katrina. You can read Too Close first, but I think it would be best to read it after Struggle (which is a free download)

How did you come with the idea for this story?

I had a lot of readers asking to know more about David, so I felt that he deserved to have his say.

Can you share with us your current work(s) in progress?

My current work is Phoenix. It’s another in the companion series The Beauty in Between and ties in to A Beautiful Forever. This one shows Paige’s back story and how she came to be the person Elliot meets on the plane in the beginning of Forever.

Who is the one author that you would love to meet someday and why?

A.V Scott. I love her work and her personality. We met on Facebook and got along straight away, but we live on opposite sides of the world. We have great plans for attending book tours when our children are grown though.

What is the best piece of advice you would give to someone that wants to get into writing?

Do your research and see what’s out there. Spend every spare moment reading, it’s the best way to learn.

Can you share with us something off your bucket list.

Make a snowman. I’ve never seen snow before, so that’s a big ‘to do’ for me.

What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for?

The Redemption of Callie and Kayden by Jessica Sorensen –she really left me hanging with the first one!

What is one book everyone should read before they die?

The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver. That is probably the most beautiful, heart wrenching story l have ever read. I think about it every day, and I read it nearly seven years ago.

What is your favorite time of year & why?

Autumn, because it’s not too hot and not too cold. Plus I love the colours. So Pretty!

Who is your Celebrity crush?

And what would you do if you ever meet them?

At the moment, it’s Stephen Amell. That man is one very divine human being.

If I ever met him, I’d likely say “hey, what’s up?” ‘cause I’m cool like that!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Yes! Thank you so much for having me on your blog today. You’ve been awesome!

TOUR GIVEAWAY DETAILS:
Lilliana is giving away the following prizes when the tour ends:

GRAND PRIZE: signed Too Close tote and a $50 kindle voucher
2nd PLACE: signed Too Close postcard and a $20 kindle voucher
3rd PLACE: signed Too Close trading card and a $10 kindle voucher.

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Lilliana Anderson’s TOO CLOSE Blog Tour Schedule – 8/1 – 8/31

8/01- Kelly P’s Blog (series spotlight)

http://kellyatx.blogspot.com/

8/02- Reader Girls (series spotlight)

http://www.readergirlsblog.com/

8/03- Literal Hotties Naughty Book Reviews (series spotlight)

http://literalhottiesnaughtybookreviews.blogspot.com/

8/03- Darker Passions (series spotlight)

http://darkerpassions.net/

8/04- Reading Between The Wines (guest post)

http://www.readingbetweenthewinesbookclub.com/

8/05- Tome Tender (series spotlight/review)

http://tometender.blogspot.com/

8/06- Sassy Book Lovers (series spotlight/excerpt)

http://sassybooklovers.blogspot.com/

8/07- United by Books (interview)

http://unitedbybooks.blogspot.com/

8/07- Toot’s Book Reviews (series spotlight)

http://tootsbookreviews.blogspot.com/

8/08- So Many Reads (guest post)

http://www.somanyreads.com/

8/08 – Lit Heiress (series spotlight/review)

http://www.not-so-literary-heiresses.com/

8/09- Redheads Review It Better (series spotlight)

http://redheadsreviewitbetter.com/

8/09- Queen of All She Reads (series spotlight)

http://queenofallshereads.blogspot.com/

8/10- Shayne Renee’s Spicy Reads (series spotlight)

http://shaynareneesspicyreads.blogspot.com/

8/10- Mad Hatter Reads (interview)

http://madhatterreads.blogspot.com/

8/11- Literal Addiction (series spotlight)

http://www.literaladdiction.com/

8/11- Literary Nook (series spotlight)

http://literarynook.com/

8/12- Scandalicious Reads (interview/series spotlight)

http://www.scandaliciousbookreviews.com/

8/12- Musings From An Addicted Reader (guest post)

http://musingsfromanaddictedreader.blogspot.com/

8/13- Snarkology (series spotlight)

http://melissasnark.blogspot.com/

8/14- Must Read Faster (series spotlight)

http://mustreadfaster.blogspot.com/

8/15- Romancing Rakes For the Love of Romance (series spotlight)

http://romancingrakes4theluvofromance.blogspot.com/

8/16- In Shadows (interview)

http://brynnacurryguests.blogspot.com/

8/16- Books-N-Kisses (interview)

https://books-n-kisses.com/

8/17- Fandom Fanatic (series spotlight)

http://fandomfanatic.blogspot.com/

8/17- Mythical Books (guest post)

http://mythicalbooks.blogspot.com/

8/18- Ramblings From This Chick (guest post/review)

http://ramblingsfromthischick.blogspot.com/

8/19 – Book Nerd

http://booknerdash.blogspot.com/

8/19- Riverina Romantics (series spotlight)

http://riverinaromantics.blogspot.com/

8/20- You Gotta Read Reviews (guest post)

http://yougottaread.com/

8/21- Book Monster Reviews (series spotlight/excerpt)

http://www.bookmonsterreviews.com/

8/22- Dalene’s Book Reviews

http://www.dalenesbookreviews.blogspot.com/

8/23-Rock’n The Muses (interview)

http://rocknthemuses.blogspot.com/

8/23- The Reading Cafe (series spotlight/review) evening post live at 6pm

http://thereadingcafe.com/

8/24- KT Book Reviews (series spotlight)

http://ktbookreviews.blogspot.com/

8/25- Two Sassy Chicks (series spotlight/review)

http://twosassychicks.wordpress.com/

8/25- Wicked Readings by Tawania (series spotlight)

http://www.wickedreadingsbytawania.blogspot.com/

8/26- Miscellaneous Thoughts of A Bookaholic (series spotlight/review)

http://miscellaneousthoughtsofabookaholic.blogspot.com/

8/27- My Secret Romance (series spotlight/review)

http://www.mysecretromancebookreviews.com/

8/28- Book Lovin’ Mamas (guest post/review)

http://booklovinmamas.com/

8/29- Cocktails and Books (series spotlight/review)

http://www.cocktailsandbooks.com/

8/29- We Love Kink (series spotlight/review)

http://www.welovekink.com/

8/30- Delphina’s Book Reviews (series spotlight)

http://www.delphinareadstoomuch.com/

8/31- Books, Books & More Books (guest post)

http://booksbooksmorebooks.blogspot.com/

August 16, 2013August 15, 2013

Kelly reviews The Five Deaths of Roxanne Love by Erin Quinn & Giveaway!!

TITLE: The Five Deaths of Roxanne Love
CHARACTERS: Santo Castillo & Roxanne Love
AUTHOR: Erin Quinn
PUBLICATION DATE: Aug 27, 2013
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Love and death make dangerous bed partners.

She cheated death….

All Roxanne Love has ever wanted is to be normal—marriage, kids, the life of June Cleaver. She tries to fit in but can’t conceal her ability to defy death–not from the world, not from the darkest creatures of the Beyond and not from the Reaper determined to destroy her. Now Roxanne is on the run, her only ally a compelling, dangerous detective with secrets of his own. Against her will, she’s drawn to his quiet strength and heated touch. But can she trust him with the truth?

….until she felt death’s kiss.

Incognito as guilt-ridden cop, Santo Castillo, the Reaper’s plan is simple: get close to Roxanne, uncover the secret of her immortality and cut it at the source. Yet with this borrowed body come emotions the Reaper hadn’t expected. Now nothing is clear but his conflicted desire to protect the woman he came to kill. As destiny forces them to face an enemy hell-bent on using Roxanne to wipe out all of mankind, she and Santo must choose between love….and salvation.

REVIEW:
4.5 Stars Roxanne Love has died 4 times now. She is not afraid to die because he has always been waiting for her. But when she died this last time he was not there. Roxanne doesn’t have time to worry about that right now she has bigger problem. Hellhound size problems. Roxanne’s only chance of survival is to trust the sexy, dark stranger that has not left her side since she was shot at her restaurant. But is he really what he says he is?

Santo Castillo is not who he seems to be. He is something much more dangerous and his sights are set on Roxanne Love. Only problem is that he was not prepared for the very human reaction he has when he sees her. Santo has figure out if he is going to be able to finish his mission or has something changed in him forever.

I really, really enjoyed this book. I love Roxanne and Santo. Roxanne is a sweet girl that when push comes to shove will fight till the end to protect what she loves. Santo is fun to read about. He knows what he is, but fights the changes that are taking place. I could go on, but then I would give you spoilers. So I will say you need to put this book on your to be read list for sure.

And I can’t wait to see what happens next to the Love family.

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

GIVEAWAY TIME!!!

Erin and I would love to give you a chance to win a digital copy of one of Erin’s Mists of Ireland books

For a chance to win please fill out the Rafflecopter below

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August 15, 2013August 15, 2013

Do or Diner Blog Tour Review & Giveaway

I am very excited to introduce everyone to a new mystery series by Christine Wenger. I recently finished Do or Diner and loved the characters of this cozy little mystery. I hope everyone has a chance to check out this new series.

About the Author:

I have worked in the criminal justice field for more years than I care to remember! It seems like I was forever going to school while I was working full time, but in the end, I received a dual master’s degree in Probation and Parole Studies and Sociology from Fordham University.

Unfortunately, the knowledge gained from way too many years in night school, didn’t prepare me for what I love to do the most – writing romances and cozy mysteries.

MY FIRST BOOK My very first book, THE LADY AND THE COWBOY, a short, western historical, was written for beginning adult readers, and I sold it to Laubach Literacy. In 1998, it was chosen by the Publishers Liaison Committee of the Public Library Association’s Adult Lifelong Learning Section as one of the “Top Titles for Adult New Readers.” Yes!

“THE CALL FROM HARLEQUIN” One of my biggest thrills in life was receiving “the call” from Susan Litman at Harlequin (then Silhouette) Special Edition in January of 2004. She wanted to publish THE COWBOY WAY. Yeee-haw!

THE COWBOY WAY was released in January of 2005—a year later. Such a looong time to wait. Since then, I’ve written eight books (and counting!) for Harlequin. I love writing about cowboys out west and the southwest, far away from New York State where I live! These are my GOLD BUCKLE COWBOYS (You’ll fall in love with them in eight seconds!) I’ve also written two books set in the Adirondack Mountains of New York, The Hawkins Legacy.

COZY MYSTERIES A new venture for me (in 2013) is a series of “comfort food” cozy mysteries which I set in a small-town 1950’s diner, THE SILVER BULLET.

The first book, DO OR DINER, from Penguin/Obsidian books is scheduled for release on August 6, 2013. A second book will follow, A SECOND HELPING OF MURDER, in 2014, and a third, yet untitled, book will be scheduled after that.

JUST FOR FUN I enjoy watching professional bull riding and rodeo with my favorite cowboy, my husband Jim. We put on our cowboy regalia (I look horrible in a cowboy hat!) and have traveled to events in Las Vegas, Florida, Connecticut, and other states. As a result of our travels, I have met many genuine, personable and polite cowboys, and that’s how I get my inspiration for my westerns! Of course I have to do research for my comfort food diner series. That takes me to diners all over the U.S. and Canada (and maybe Europe and Asia!) for meals. It’s a tough job, but I just have to do it!

Online links: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/christinewengerauthor?fref=ts

Website: www.christinewenger.com

Jennifer’s Review of Do or Diner

TITLE: Do or Diner

SERIES #: A Comfort Food Mystery #1

CHARACTERS: Trixie Matkowski and Ty Brisco

AUTHOR: Christine Wenger

PUBLICATION DATE: 08/06/13

ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS: When Trixie Matkowski agrees to take over her aunt’s diner, she pictures lakeside views and delicious comfort food in the small town where she spent summers as a child. But the sweet scene turns sour when someone puts murder on the menu….

Trixie is in need of a fresh start away from her cheating ex-husband, but she may be biting off more than she can chew when she moves up to upstate New York to run her family’s famed Silver Bullet Diner. Not only is she caught off guard by the small town’s resident heartthrob, Deputy Ty Brisco, but her first health inspection turns into a nightmare…when the inspector keels over into his blue plate special.

Someone made a deadly addition to an old family recipe, and Trixie is determined to find out whodunit. But between serving up orders and sniffing out clues, she’d better watch her back–or her next meal might be her last.

REVIEW PROVIDED BY: Jennifer NUMBER OF STARS: Five Stars

REVIEW: I am a huge fan of culinary mysteries and I was absolutely delighted to have the opportunity to read this book. I liked Trixie right from the very beginning because she came home to run her aunt’s restaurant after divorcing her cheating husband. She was smart, hard-working and wasn’t afraid to jump into the middle of a crazy dinner shift. As soon as she arrives in Sandy Harbor, Trixie finds herself involved in the murder of a health inspector who just happened to be found dead at her new restaurant. Everyone believes that Trixie is to blame and her dream of a successful diner may go up in smoke if the real murderer isn’t found.

I loved the characters and the little picturesque town of Sandy Harbor. Christine Wenger created a humorous and delightful mystery that was very entertaining and a great start to a new series. I loved the recipes in the back of the book which reminded me of sitting in my grandmother’s kitchen while she cooked on a Sunday afternoon. I’m looking forward to reading A Second Helping of Murder which is the second book in the series that is due out sometime next year.

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August 15, 2013August 3, 2013

Kelly reviews Unforgettable by Alison Kent

TITLE: Unforgettable
SERIES #: Dalton Gang #3
CHARACTERS: Boone Mitchell & Everly Grant
AUTHOR: Alison Kent
PUBLICATION DATE: August 6, 2013
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
THE DALTON BOYS TAKE THE REIGNS

The infamous Dalton Gang was once known for ridingand playinghard. Now, as owners of the Dalton Ranch in Crow Hill, Texas, they’re working from sunup to sundown. But one look from the right woman can tempt them back into the saddle

When a walk on the wild side turned into a nightmare for Everly Grant, she escaped her abusive ex by taking a job with Crow Hill’s small newspaper. Now she’s assigned to write a human interest story on the return of the Dalton Gang, and she soon discovers that Boone Mitchell could give her plenty more than a good interview. As much as she craves safety, she finds herself irresistibly drawn to Boone’s dangerous streak. Before she takes the cowboy to bed, she lays down the law: There are no strings attached, and she’s the one in charge.

That’s fine for Boone. In fact, Everly teaches him things no other woman ever dared. Soon they find themselves wanting more than their simple arrangement will allow. But to get there, Everly will have to open up in ways she thought she never could

REVIEW:
3.5 Stars This was my first Alison Kent book. I did enjoy this book. Although I think I would have liked to read book one and two in the series first. Not that I think it would have had a big impact on Unforgettable, but because I really wanted to know more about Boone’s pals.

While I enjoyed Boone & Evelyn’s story. It felt like there were too many thing unfinished at the end of the book. Yes there was a happy ending, but a lot of loose ends that were not tied off. We never got to see what Evelyn’s human interest story was. What did she write about the Dalton gang? Did she even write the story? Also what was up with Les Upton. This part of the story just feel short for me. I kept waiting and waiting for something to happen. But no. Nothing happened at all.

But over all Unforgettable was a good story and I am sure fans of The Dalton Gang will be happy with Boones’ story.

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

August 13, 2013August 11, 2013

Spotlight feature, excerpt (2 of 6) & tour wide giveaway of Katie Reus’ First Surrender

First Surrender

by Katie Reus

Genre: Erotic Contemporary Romance

Box Set Name: “Wicked Firsts” – 6 novellas from 6 bestselling authors

Publisher: The Indie Six, LLC

Pub Date: August 19, 2013

Length: 120,000 words (total collection)

Back Cover: First Surrender by Katie Reus

He’s dangerous, sexy, and everything she wants…

Sierra hit it off with Hayden from the moment they met. The dangerously sexy, tattooed ex-SEAL is one of the best friends she’s ever had—and the main star in her wildest fantasies. But he doesn’t see her that way. And she’d die of embarrassment if he found out she was still a virgin.

And he’s about to make his claim…

Hayden’s struggled to keep his attraction to the beautiful, dark haired casino chef a secret. He’s not good enough for her. But when an attacker targets Sierra, Hayden’s protective instincts go into overdrive. With the attraction between them burning out of control, he’ll do whatever it takes to protect her and convince her they’re meant to be together.

First Surrender – The Serafina: Sin City Series

Marty started to respond but Iris Christiansen strode through the glass doorway looking fierce in black pants, a crisp white button down shirt and a sleek, clearly custom-made black jacket. Everything about the other woman was, well, fierce. She was gorgeous but also a little scary, especially since Sierra knew the former Marine was always well-armed. The tall woman gave Marty one look and he scampered away.

Luckily she gave Sierra a bright smile. “What’s up, Sierra? You got a problem at the restaurant?”

Still struggling to find her voice, she shook her head. “No problem, just leaving. See you tomorrow.” Sierra tried to hurry away, but Iris followed her to the elevators.

“What’s going on? You don’t look okay.”

Sierra swallowed hard. Lord, was she that transparent? “Just had a long day. Busy, you know?” Gah, why wouldn’t the elevator hurry up?

Iris raised a dark eyebrow. “Do I need to kick his ass?”

Staring at her, Sierra frowned. “What? Who?”

“Hayden. What’s he done now?”

The mention of his name made Sierra’s stomach flip-flop. It also pissed her off. If he’d had a date he could have had the decency to tell her. Shrugging jerkily, she breathed out a sigh of relief when the elevator stopped and dinged. “Hayden hasn’t done anything.” And she wondered why Iris would assume this had anything to do with the man. It wasn’t like they were dating.

Iris didn’t respond, but her lips pulled into a thin line as the doors shut behind Sierra. Once she was alone, Sierra didn’t bother to keep up a happy face. Hayden hadn’t mentioned dating anyone in the past year, though she knew the man had to be dating. He was walking, talking sex appeal. Absently she rubbed the center of her chest. So, he was dating. No big deal. Right? Ugh, yeah right. Swallowing back the traitorous tears threatening to overwhelm her, she hurried into the below ground parking garage. Normally Hayden or someone else walked her to her vehicle but she didn’t want to bother asking anyone else. Not when she felt like crying. No way was she embarrassing herself and becoming a source of casino gossip.

Picking up her pace, her sandals slapped quickly across the concrete. As she reached the second row of cars, a tiny scream escaped her lips as a man wearing a mask jumped out from behind her Jeep. The guy was huge, maybe six feet tall, and when she saw the flash of metal—a knife!—in his hands, her chest constricted as a hundred horrible scenarios raced through her mind. Knowing she’d only get one chance she let out a blood-curdling scream at the top of her lungs as she backtracked and started running in the other direction.

Blood rushed in her ears as she continued screaming and digging in her purse for her pepper spray. She knew she wouldn’t be a physical match against anyone and—pain exploded in her scalp as he grabbed her by the hair and jerked back.

Instinctively she reached back to try to stop him and quickly realized her mistake. Using a lot of force, he slammed her forehead against a nearby car. Another burst of pain launched inside her skull as she tried to shove away from the vehicle. He pulled her head back again and she struggled to find breath—suddenly she was falling.

*****

About the WICKED FIRSTS Box Set:

Six New York Times and USA Today Bestselling authors (Laura Wright, Alexandra Ivy, Cynthia Eden, Katie Reus, Elisabeth Naughton, and Joan Swan) bring you six all-new contemporary and super sexy suspense stories of first loves, first attractions, first temptations, first times and first obsessions.

Pre-Order the Wicked First Box Set at Amazon.com for Only $0.99

Now Through Release Week!

Amazon: http://amzn.to/15C4iCO

Meet Author Katie Reus:

Katie Reus is the USA Today bestselling author of the Red Stone Security series, Moon Shifter series and Deadly Ops series. She fell in love with romance at a young age thanks to books she pilfered from her mom’s stash. Years later she loves reading romance almost as much as she loves writing it.

However, she didn’t always know she wanted to be a writer. After changing majors many times, she finally graduated with a degree in psychology. Not long after that she discovered a new love. Writing. She now spends her days writing dark paranormal romance and sexy romantic suspense. To learn more about her please visit her website, blog, facebook or find her on twitter @katiereus.

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads | Amazon Author Page

Giveaway Time

Five (5) Wicked Firsts box sets will be gifted tour wide between 8/12 – 8/19.

The more stops you comment on, the great your chances of winning! Please follow the Rafflecopter directions.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

For more opportunities to win some goodies, check out the Joint Twitter Party with Katie Reus and Cynthia Eden at: http://events.litconnect.com/joint-twitter-party-wicked-firsts-box-set-with-katie-reus-cynthia-eden/

Tour Stops:

8/12: The Jeep Diva

8/13: Books-n-Kisses

8/14: Nina’s Literary Escape

8/15: Ramblings From This Chick

8/16: Just Contemporary Romance

8/16: Book Lovin’ Mamas

August 13, 2013August 9, 2013

Release Day Madness 8.13.12

Happy Release Day!!!!

What are you getting this week?

Did I miss your favorite?

Send me an email at kelly(at)books-n-kisses.com and let me know of any upcoming releases you want featured on Tuesday’s Release Day Madness.

August 13, 2013August 3, 2013

Kelly reviews Turn and Burn by Lorelei James

TITLE: Turn & Burn
SERIES #: Blacktop Cowboy #5
CHARACTERS: August Fletcher & Tanna Barker
AUTHOR: Lorelei James
PUBLICATION DATE: August 6th, 2013
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Tanna Barker is a world champion barrel racer. But her personal life has been less of a success, and she’s feeling adrift. After her mother’s unexpected death, her father has remarried, and sold the Texas ranch she called home. Now a rodeo injury has left the restless spitfire holed up in Muddy Gap, unsure what her next move should be.

Until she meets her match in a wild, wild cowboy

Veterinarian August Fletcher has always put his job first. He’s never found a woman who could handle his on-the-road lifestyle. But when sassy, sexy Tanna blows into town, he finally finds the woman of his fantasies. And there’s something between them, but she claims she’s been burned by love ’em and leave ’em road dogs before. How can Fletch prove that he’s in it for the long haul, and that their sizzling relationship is better than winning any rodeo medal? It’ll take some sweet persuasion to convince Tanna that Muddy Gap is where she belongs.

REVIEW:
This was just an okay book for me. Maybe I should have read the books before this one. I am not sure. I just never really connected with the characters, the world and the whole story in general. It was not a bad story and I like the cast of characters. It just didn’t grab me and suck me in.
I am sure that Lorelei fans will really enjoy this book and I hope that they do.

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

August 12, 2013August 11, 2013

Cover Reveal of Stacey Kennedy’s Bet on Ecstasy

BET ON ECSTASY

PACT OF SEDUCTION #3

Erotic Romance – Ménage à Trois

Publisher: Loose Id

Length: Novella

Release date: September 24, 2013

Business partners, Smith and Brock share their fortune, success, and they share their women. A healthy competitive streak built MDR Software into a multi-million-dollar enterprise, and their on-going bets continuously raise the stakes. The current proposition: an arranged ménage encounter through the sex club, Castle Dolce Vita. The prize: a sexy kitten, Kyra.

While the two wealthy, powerful men are enough to pique Kyra’s interests to fulfill the Pact of Seduction and live out her ultimate fantasy, a bet forged between the men comes with an intriguing promise. Her pleasure is now part of their wager.

Soon, Kyra fights against her desire for the men as she struggles through the complications of a ménage relationship. Of course, the men take their bets seriously and are determined to show Kyra that in this game of seduction no one loses.

Find BET ON ECSTASY on Goodreads

ABOUT STACEY KENNEDY

Stacey Kennedy is an urban fantasy lover at heart, but she also enjoys losing herself in dark and sensual worlds. She loves in southwestern Ontario with her husband, who gave her a happily-ever-after. Together, they have two small children who can always make her smile, and who will never be allowed to read Mommy’s books. If she’s not plugging away at a new story, you’ll find her camping, curling up with the latest flick, or obsessing over Sons of Anarchy, Supernatural, True Blood and Lost Girl.

Connect with Stacey

Facebook | Twitter | Website

August 12, 2013August 7, 2013

Interview with Carly Phillips

Books-n-Kisses is pleased to welcome Carly Phillips to the blog today to talk about her newest release “Perfect Fling”.

Carly, can you please share with us a little about yourself?

I’m a homebody, a bookworm, a dog lover, a family girl. I have a tight circle of friends that mean the world to me. I love to write and I write to live – it fulfills me. I knit on occasion. Currently I’m not finding the time. I’m an Internet junkie and I love hanging with my daughters.

Have you always wanted to be an author?

Nope! I’ve always been an avid reader from a young age. I remember spending Sundays in bed reading. So I think the author thing stemmed from that – and from making up stories in my head growing up.

Are you a plotter or a punster or combo of both? And you explain the difference?

Mostly a pantser with the immediate next scene or two plotted out. If you’re a plotter, you know where you are going with your story and characters before you ever sit down to write. If you are a pantser then you “fly by the seat of your pants” … so to speak.

What is your most interesting writing quirk?

I don’t know if it’s a quirk. I just know I struggle the most the first 1/3 of a story until things click – and then I can write much faster. Usually. Every book is different, though. Sometimes they come easily and sometimes they … umm … don’t.

Can you please tell us about PERFECT FLING?

On one hand, Perfect Fling is the good girl who meets bad boy story but it’Perfect Fling tackles the subject of what happens to someone who is raised to believe he’s no good? How can he be convinced otherwise when that voice in his head overrules what his heroine sees? Cole Sanders has spent years under cover and barely knows who HE is. He likes it that way, distant from everyone and not letting anyone close. Until a one night stand with good girl Erin Marsden leaves them with the closest connection of all – a baby! Then Erin is threatened and Cole steps up to protect her forcing them to come to terms with each other. And love.

How did you come with the idea for this story?

The Serendipity’s Finest series flowed naturally from Serendipity. Sam, the cop, stood out to me and to readers, so it felt right to give him a story … but when I set up his family I realized he wasn’t about to come next. He needed his siblings’ stories told first!

Can you share with us your current work(s) in progress?

Nope J Because I’m on a break and trying to decide exactly what that is … otherwise I’d be happy to, LOL!

Who is the one author that you would love to meet someday and why?

I really wanted to meet Kristen Ashley and see how her brain worked because I adore her stories. We had breakfast at RWA last month and I was shocked to find she’s perfectly normal, LOL. I thought maybe I’d see her and some of that plotting brilliance would come my way. LOL. I had a blast meeting her. A real fan girl moment.

What is the best piece of advice you would give to someone that wants to get into writing?

Do it. Sit down and finish a book. Show yourself you can. Then prepare yourself for rejection and develop a thick skin. But never stop writing. Remember you do it for the love of it!

Can you share with us something off your bucket list.

Hmm. I don’t really have a bucket list. I would like to visit Israel one day though.

What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for?

The next Kit Rocha Dystopian Romance, Beyond Pain.

What is one book everyone should read before they die?

Ack! I’m sorry. I’m not that deep! I don’t know!

Who is your Celebrity crush? And what would you do if you ever meet them?

Oh wow. I used to say George Clooney is my “freebie.” If I met him I’d probably run the other way. I’m a coward!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Thank you for having me! I love visiting with you. You can join my newsletter via my website at www.carlyphillips.com so you’ll be first to know. I also post at Facebook: www.facebook.com/carlyphillipsfanpage and on Twitter: www.twitter.com/carlyphillips . That way you won’t miss a thing!

August 12, 2013August 11, 2013

Interview and Giveaway with Heather Lyons

I recently read Heather’s books, A Matter of Fate and A Matter of Heart, in just a few days. I was so fascinated with her characters and story line that I couldn’t stop reading until I devoured them both. I am very lucky to have her here today to discuss her new book, A Matter of Heart, which just recently came out.

1. Tell me about your new release, A Matter of Heart.

I recently released the second book in my Fate series, A Matter of Heart (the first is A Matter of Fate). The series, which starts as Young Adult and transitions to New Adult in this second book, follows the journey of Chloe Lilywhite, a powerful Creator who is not only partially responsible for all of the worlds she and the rest of the Magicals oversee, but is also entrenched in a truly messy love triangle between twin brothers. In A Matter of Heart, Chloe settles into her role on the Council while having to deal with all of the complicated emotions stemming from being in love with two people.

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

Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve been fascinated with various mythologies from around the world. It was always fun to wonder what it would be like if there WERE people who oversaw our world, from the crops we grow to the weather to how people acquire knowledge. So when I sat down to write the Fate series, I knew I wanted to explore what these beings would be like and how they work; having one of the most powerful (and conflicted) being a teenage girl seemed almost too fun to pass up.

3. Do you have any actors that you envision when you are writing your characters?

For some, right away yes, for some no. There are a lot of characters that I have trouble matching up to actors/models/etc. But for the three main characters in my Fate series, I do have a pair of actors that I feel look fairly close to how they do in my head. For Chloe Lilywhite, Imogene Poots is pretty spot on. For Jonah and Kellan, who are identical twins, I see Ben Barnes (when he was younger) in the role.

4. What are you currently working on ?

I am currently wrapping up a story that has its roots in Greek mythology. See? I love me some mythologies!

5. What is your favorite book that you’ve read at the moment?

Oh, wow. This is like picking a favorite child. Hmm….I’m going to have to go with Persuasion by Jane Austen. I’ve only read it a zillion times! If we’re talking recent releases, I absolutely adored Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins. Ooh-la-la!

6. What advice would you give aspiring writers?

Write. Write some more. And then keep on writing!

Thank you so much for answering my questions. It is a pleasure to have you here today.

Thank you so much for having me!

About the Author:

Heather Lyons has always had a thing for words—She’s been writing stories since she was a kid. In addition to writing, she’s also been an archaeologist and a teacher. Heather is a rabid music fan, as evidenced by her (mostly) music-centric blog, and she’s married to an even larger music snob. They’re happily raising three kids who are mini music fiends who love to read and be read to.

Links:

Website /Author Goodreads / Twitter /Facebook

Chloe Lilywhite struggles with all the normal problems of a typical seventeen-year-old high school student. Only, Chloe isn’t a normal teenage girl. She’s a Magical, part of a secret race of beings who influence the universe. More importantly, she’s a Creator, which means Fate mapped out her destiny long ago, from her college choice, to where she will live, to even her job. While her friends and relatives relish their future roles, Chloe resents the lack of say in her life, especially when she learns she’s to be guarded against a vengeful group of beings bent on wiping out her kind. Their number one target? Chloe, of course.

That’s nothing compared to the boy trouble she’s gotten herself into. Because a guy she’s literally dreamed of and loved her entire life, one she never knew truly existed, shows up in her math class, and with him comes a twin brother she finds herself inexplicably drawn to.

Chloe’s once unyielding path now has a lot more choices than she ever thought possible.

Amazon / Barnes & Noble /Goodreads

Jennifer’s Review of A Matter of Heart

TITLE: A Matter of Heart

SERIES #: Fate Series #2

CHARACTERS: Chloe Lilywhite, Jonah and Kellan Whitecomb

AUTHOR: Heather Lyons

PUBLICATION DATE: 06/25/13

ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS: No longer in high school, Chloe Lilywhite is now living and working in Annar, the Magicals city-state plane of existence. Since moving, she’s joined the Council, gone on missions with the Guard, moved into her own apartment, and enrolled at the University of Annar. Plus, she’s happily engaged to be married to Jonah Whitecomb, the literal man of her dreams, not to mention her Connection. While she still struggles with aspects of her craft, Chloe feels like she’s finally coming into her own, especially after a difficult year that had her questioning nearly everything in her life.

After a brutal attack by the Elders, her life is turned upside down once more. Accusations fly throughout the Council and Guard, forcing Chloe to confront her worst fears about what she’s capable of as a Creator. And then there’s the matter of Kellan Whitecomb, Jonah’s twin brother and Chloe’s ex, who resurfaces after disappearing months before. Although Chloe chose Jonah, and despite their best efforts, the two find it hard to stay away from another.

But no matter what Fate throws at her, Chloe is determined to take charge of her life, even as it begins to spiral out of control.

REVIEW PROVIDED BY: Jennifer NUMBER OF STARS: Five Stars

REVIEW: I devoured A Matter of Fate in a couple of days and I couldn’t wait to get my hands on A Matter of Heart. Chloe Lilywhite has taken her place as Creator on the council and is immediately assigned challenging missions right out of the gate. Being put in a powerful yet stressful position at such a young age provides Chloe with so many conflicted emotions that it was hard to watch at times as she struggled with these difficult decisions. She has a terrible burden placed on her shoulders and I was impressed with her character because I know that I never would have been able to handle that level of stress at her age. With these changes, Chloe also has to deal with the fact that the threat from the Elders is escalating and is now putting everyone that she loves in harm’s way.

Her relationship with Jonah has taken a more serious turn now that they have moved to Annar and live next to each other. They are engaged to be married but Chloe still feels conflicted because of her feelings for his twin, Kellan. In the first book, I absolutely adored Kellan because I just felt that he was a better match for Chloe, even though she was Connected and destined to be with Jonah. In this book, she still has to work with Kellan, which is awkward and confusing at times because they are both unsure about what to say to each other. The feelings are still there and I just find myself liking Kellan more and more. The love triangle between the three intensifies in this book and it was such an gut-wrenching emotional roller-coaster from beginning to end.

I loved A Matter of Heart and Heather’s writing captured my attention from the very start. I can’t wait to read A Matter of Truth which is due out in December because I can’t wait to see what happens to Chloe next after the events in A Matter of Heart.

Giveaway

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August 12, 2013August 3, 2013

Kelly reviews Midnight Games by Elle Kennedy

TITLE: Midnight Games
SERIES #: Killer Instincts #3
CHARACTERS: Trevor Callaghan & Isabel Roma
AUTHOR: Elle Kennedy
PUBLICATION DATE: August 6, 2013
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
She wears a thousand deadly identities. He sees through them all.

A master of disguise, Isabel Roma spends her life pretending to be other women. Normally, her emotions are reined in tight—but sexy mercenary Trevor Callaghan has a knack for getting under her skin. The elite operative’s quiet strength and raw magnetism affect her in ways she’s never felt before, a distraction that can quickly turn deadly in their dangerous line of work.

After putting his tragic past behind him, Trevor is ready to focus on his future—and he damn well intends for Isabel to be in it. When their entire operation is thrown into chaos, Trevor enlists Isabel’s talent for deception. And as they attempt to save their team in a world where the stakes are high and the danger is grave, Trevor must convince Isabel that the woman beneath all the disguises is the one worth having.

REVIEW:
3.5 Stars Ahh Trevor & Isabel’s story. Words that come to mind are stubborn, determined and a never say die attitude. This is what you get from these two. They are both so stubborn and determined but for very different reasons.
Trevor is a man on a mission to get Isabel to see that there is way more to them then she thinks there is. And this time Trevor is not going to let her run away from him, no matter what he has to do.
Isabel may come off as tough. She may be one of the best chameleons out there. But the one thing that scares her to death is Trevor Callaghan. And for a very good reason, Trevor makes her feel.
This was a good story. Parts were a little slow. But overall I enjoyed Trevor & Isabel’s story. I am looking forward to the next book in this series.

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