Tuesday, May 31, 2016

The Peppercorn Project by Nicki Edwards

One heartbroken woman. One bitter cop. One community to save them.

After the tragic death of her husband, single mum Isabelle Cassidy is bereft and broke. When she hears about The Peppercorn Project – a scheme that offers affordable rent in the tiny but vibrant town of Stony Creek – Issie sees it as her family's best chance at a fresh start.

Newly single police officer Matt Robertson moved to Stony Creek to lick his wounds after a bitter divorce. Wanting only peace and quiet, Matt is against the Project, seeing it as a threat to the peace he's found in the country town – until he meets Issie. Despite himself, Matt is drawn to the widow and feels inexplicably protective of her fragile family.

Just when Issie begins to imagine a future with Matt, an accident proves how far she has to go before she can move beyond her grief. But the citizens of Stony Creek won't rest until they see these two broken souls find a new beginning, together.

Can Issie move beyond the pain of her past and entrust Matt with her family, and her heart?


Happy release day to The Peppercorn Project!  

I've always wanted to go to Australia.  It's interesting to me how I could tell that this author was actually from Australia verses someone from America trying to write about Australia.  :)  I loved the way the words sometimes threw me for a loop but because of context clues I knew what they meant.  I once had a friend living next door to me from Australia and this book just reminded me of her.  I could almost hear the accents.

Issie is broken.  No doubt about it.  She is managing and surviving but not really living.  When she shows up in the small town of Stony Creek, the people there are determined to save her and her children.  I really loved the small town, community feel to this book where people know how to take care of each other.  Issie is the underdog and it is easy to root for the underdog.  It was satisfying to see her emerge from darkness and find her footing again.

This book was really slow moving for me.  I had a hard time staying with it at some points because I just wanted things to move along more quickly.  I was a little let down by the "suspense" moments.  I thought with the build up there would have been more to it.

The last third of the book was the best bit for me.  Things pick up a bit- there is more movement and dialogue.  Relationships grow.  Everything goes crazy and then comes back together.  I love where and how the book ended.

A solid 3 stars for this one!

Content:  Fade to black, behind closed doors sex.  Some innuendo.  Mild swearing and profanity.

Monday, May 30, 2016

A Long Way Home (The Fallout Series Book 3) by Becky Doughty



A Long Way Home is the third book in The Fallout Series by Becky Doughty. Like the others in this series, it can be read as a standalone, but characters from the other books play supporting roles in this tale of a girl who fears she's wandered too far from home to ever make it back.

On the run, Savannah Clark lives her life as a modern-day bohemian, hiding her identity behind her beaded scarves and swirling skirts. Marek and the Gypsies, a troupe of dancers and musicians, follow the Renaissance and Medieval Faire circuits, never staying in one place for very long. Her disguise, however, doesn't fool those who know and love her best, nor does it completely hide the evidence of how difficult living in fear can be.

But an unexpected encounter with Jordan Ransome, her first love, tears open old wounds, and tragic news from home brings Savannah face to face with her worst fears. Will she run again, tethered to the lies she's come to believe about herself and those she left behind, or can she trust her heart enough to embrace the girl she once was as the woman she has become?

Trigger Warning: A Long Way Home touches on some heavy subjects, such as sexual domination and manipulation, date rape, physical abuse and teen pregnancy.


I love this Fallout series and I LOVED this book.  I think this one may be my favorite of the series.  Maybe.  Ugh, I don't know.  They have all been really good. Becky Doughty is so fabulous.  She really knows how to write a story that engages you from the very beginning and holds on to you until the very last sentence.  There is so much emotion and struggle in her books.  I have to constantly tell myself to slow down and enjoy the ride because I get so caught up in the story and end up reading faster and faster.

This isn't your typical fluff romance story.  (I happen to love typical fluff romance stories, so don't get me wrong)  There are a lot of heavy subjects going on in this book and yet I never felt overwhelmed or overly burdened as a reader.  Maybe because there was always hope there.  I could feel the love and support of the other characters and it felt good.

When Savannah literally runs into Jordan, you can feel the intensity of the situation although as a reader, you don't really understand completely what is happening.  The story unfolds in both real time and through flashbacks and the full story doesn't even come together until the very last part of the book.  It was a fabulous ride.  Perfect pacing.  Intense and emotional.  So, so good!

If you haven't had a chance to read any books in this series, you should start with All the Way to Heaven.  I think these novels can stand alone, but you will feel more of a connection to the secondary characters if you read them in order.

Content:  As stated above, this book contains heavy subjects.  Sexual domination and manipulation, physical abuse, date rape, teen pregnancy.  There is mild swearing.  The sexual situations are not described in great detail but you definitely get a clear view of what happened.

Friday, May 27, 2016

Win a Book of Your Choice in the Splash into Summer Giveaway Hop!

It's hop time again!  I'm so excited that summer is on it's way in!  It's slow coming where I live but spring is definitely here so summer cannot be too far behind.  I love summer!

I am giving away a book of your choice, $12 or less, from Amazon if you are US and the Book Depository if you are INT and they ship to you free.  This is for a book, not anything else.  You will have 48 hours to respond to my email and after that, I pick a new winner.

Good luck and thanks for dropping by!
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Thursday, May 26, 2016

Close to You by Kara Isaac


A disgraced scholar running from her past and an entrepreneur chasing his future find themselves thrown together—and fall in love—on a Tolkien tour of New Zealand.

Allison Shire (yes, like where the Hobbits live) is a disgraced academic who is done with love. Her belief in “happily ever after” ended the day she discovered her husband was still married to a wife she knew nothing about. She finally finds a use for her English degree by guiding tours through the famous sites featured in the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit movies. By living life on the road and traveling New Zealand as a luxury tour guide, Allison manages to outrun the pain of her past she can’t face.

Jackson Gregory was on the cusp of making it big. Then suddenly his girlfriend left him—for his biggest business competitor—and took his most guarded commercial secrets with her. To make matters worse, the Iowa farm that has been in his family for generations is facing foreclosure. Determined to save his parents from financial ruin, he’ll do whatever it takes to convince his wealthy great-uncle to invest in his next scheme, which means accompanying him to the bottom of the world to spend three weeks pretending to be a die-hard Lord of the Rings fan, even though he knows nothing about the stories. The one thing that stands between him and his goal is a know-it-all tour guide who can’t stand him and pegged him as a fake the moment he walked off the plane.

When Allison leads the group through the famous sites of the Tolkien movies, she and Jackson start to see each other differently, and as they keep getting thrown together on the tour, they find themselves drawn to each other. Neither expected to fall in love again, but can they find a way beyond their regrets to take a chance on the one thing they’re not looking for?

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

So, the summary above is very long and pretty much tells you the whole book!  If you are a fan of the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit books and movies, you will probably really love this book because it has a lot of references and trivia.  Almost every scene is set somewhere related to Lord of the Rings in New Zealand.  I will admit to not being such a big fan and I still enjoyed this book.  :)  I'd sure love to go to New Zealand!

Jackson is a bit of a jerk in the beginning.  He is rude and not very nice at all.  It's a good thing that first impressions can be changed!  By the end of the book I liked him much better.  The ending really sealed the deal for me.  Ending = Jackson fan.

Allison is a nice girl.  A smart girl.  And kind.  All the best attributes to have.  Just because she is all those things doesn't mean she lets Jackson walk all over her.  Because he does kind of try to do that in the beginning but Allison hands it right back to him on a platter.

This was a slow growing build kind of book.  It took the whole book to get to a connection place for Jackson and Allison (yeah, I mean a kiss).  Even then I had to wait longer.  It was a titch frustrating but there were so many great scenes with chemistry and funny moments that I was appeased.  

This is a new author for me and I'm happy to add her to my author's to watch list!  I'll be looking for her next book!

Content:  Clean

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.


Tuesday, May 24, 2016

The Soldier's Bride by Rachelle J. Christensen




As WWII ration cards and battle scars become commonplace across America, it seems to Evelyn that even love is rationed out. When she finds a message from her late husband tucked inside a music box, Jim’s words have the power to change her life: Don't die with me.

Words written out of love, long-lost but never forgotten.

Grief stricken, Evelyn is unsure of how to honor his request, but she finds the courage to keep on living. Jim’s note urges her to give the music box away to unlock the secret within, and although it breaks her heart again, Evelyn trades the music box for a cradle to hold her infant son. Thus begins the decades-long journey of the music box, mending broken hearts, reuniting lost loves, and giving people the courage to heal themselves along the way. This romance crosses battlefields and time as the music box touches the lives of two soldiers, a broken father, a crippled child, a struggling farmer, and a woman once called the soldier's bride.

 * Amazon * Goodreads

I wasn't exactly sure what to expect going into this book.  It didn't sound like the typical romance and I wondered if this was multiple stories put together in one book.  I guess that was the surprise for me because this book was several stories woven together but always with the same few key characters in the mix.

This book was full of love and struggle and forgiveness and healing.  The characters all go through heartache and growth.  The struggle felt real.  I loved the miracle and magic of the music box and how it tied every story together.

This is what I would term a "feel good" book.  It kind of reminded me of a Hallmark Movie. 

Content:  An almost rape scene

I received a copy of book in exchange for my honest review.

Friday, May 20, 2016

The Bad Boy's Baby by Cindi Madsen + $25 and Book Giveaway

On Tour with Prism Book Tours.

The Bad Boy's BabyThe Bad Boy's Baby
(Hope Springs #3)
by Cindi Madsen
Adult Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 284 pages
May 16th 2016 by Entangled: Bliss

There are certain words that have always described Cam Brantley: Town bad boy. Soldier. Protector. But never, ever dad. Until he returns home from his latest military tour to discover the girl he had one smoking-hot night with is now mom to the adorable two-year-old Zoey. Who has his eyes.

Plenty of words could describe Emma Walker these days. Mom, dutiful granddaughter, budding designer, the town’s golden child. But when her longtime crush Cam Brantley comes back to town, she knows the perfect word to describe herself: screwed.

Cam and Emma are both shocked to discover he truly wants Zoey in his life. But Cam’s not sure he’s ready to be a dad, and Emma can’t gamble her daughter on maybes. As the long-simmering heat between Cam and Emma reaches a boiling point, he’ll have to work past his demons in order to be the man both girls need.

Daddy duty might be his toughest mission yet…

GoodreadsAmazonBarnes & NobleBook DepositoryiBooksKobo


The Bad Boy's baby is the third book in this Hope Springs series.  I haven't read the other  books in the series but I didn't feel like I was missing out on anything.  Each book can stand alone.

This is a great story of second chance love.  The characters had a brief encounter years ago, right before Cam left the country for his military duties.  Emma ended up pregnant and she never told him- but she didn't know how to find him.  Now, years later, Emma runs into Cam again and knows she has to tell him about his daughter.  Yikes!  That's a big secret to drop on the unsuspecting man!

This makes for some charged moments between Cam and Emma.  The old attraction is still there but now there is a bit more to consider.  It's more than just lusty attraction.  Cam and Emma battle their own personal demons- Cam more than Emma, I would say.

I enjoyed this book and it's characters.  It was easy to settle in and get carried away in the fantastic drama of Cam and Emma's lives. 

Content:  This isn't what I would classify as "clean" romance because of the swearing and sexual encounters.  The details stop at taking clothes off and the rest is behind closed doors.  There is sexual innuendo.



Other Books in the Series

Second Chance Ranch (Hope Springs, #1)Second Chance Ranch
(Hope Springs #1)
by Cindi Madsen
Adult Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 232 pages
September 15th 2014 by Entangled: Bliss

Sometimes love is right where you left it.

Sadie Hart has a plan: return to her small town of Hope Springs so she can regain her confidence—and bank account—before giving one more shot to her country music dream. The dream that means more to her than anything. The dream she chose over her high school sweetheart, the brooding and sinfully handsome Royce Dixon.

Royce has moved on from his memories of the beautiful Sadie. Now he’s focused solely on running Second Chance Ranch, where he rehabilitates troubled teens through ranch work. But when he needs a new employee and Sadie’s the only one to volunteer, he has no choice but to offer his old flame a job.

Whether riding a horse with the wind in her hair or mucking out the stalls, Sadie can still get Royce’s heart beating like no one else. But Nashville is her dream, and Royce can’t settle for second best.

GoodreadsAmazonBarnes & NobleBook DepositoryiBooksKobo

Crazy for the Competition (Hope Springs, #2)Crazy for the Competition
(Hope Springs #2)
by Cindi Madsen
Adult Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 277 pages
June 9th 2015 by Entangled Publishing: Bliss

The road to trouble is paved with sweet temptation… 

Always the rebel in her ultra-conservative family, Quinn Sakata dreams of quitting her dad's real-estate business and restoring the old Mountain Ridge Bed and Breakfast in her hometown of Hope Springs. Except that Quinn's not the only person bidding on it. Worse still, her competitor is her high school crush, Heath Brantley, who is all kinds of ripped, tattooed hotness...

So much for her "nice, conservative boys" rule.

Heath has his own reasons for bidding on Mountain Ridge, and he won't give in without a fight - even to the red-lipped hottie with a sailor's mouth. But when their rivalry shifts into an unexpected zing of chemistry, Heath realizes he's in deep trouble. Because it's inevitable that emotions will get involved, and he needs to keep his eyes on the prize before they both get hurt.

GoodreadsAmazonBarnes & NobleBook DepositoryiBooksKobo



Cindi Madsen is a USA Today Bestselling author of contemporary romance and young adult novels. She sits at her computer every chance she gets, plotting, revising, and falling in love with her characters. Sometimes it makes her a crazy person. Without it, she'd be even crazier. She has way too many shoes, but can always find a reason to buy a new pretty pair, especially if they're sparkly, colorful, or super tall. She loves music, dancing, and wishes summer lasted all year long. She lives in Colorado (where summer is most definitely NOT all year long) with her husband and three children.

$25 Amazon eGift Card
ebook of Crazy for the Competition
Open internationally
Ends May 27th

Thursday, May 19, 2016

The McCarran Collection by Liz Adair


Bridget Olasfson, a beautiful archivist hiding secrets, comes to Utah's brilliant red rock country to catalog the McCarran Collection. Though she's sworn off men in her life, she’s attracted to Ben, the bad-boy, off-road racing McCarran cousin. But it’s Lew McCarran, the tall, quiet cousin, she turns to when she finds herself caught up in a dangerous intrigue involving a lost boy, a drug cartel, and death. What will she do when the only way to save the boy is to give up the man she loves?

Part romance, part cozy mystery, part thriller, The McCarran Collection is, last of all, a novel about family ties.


This book wasn't exactly what I was expecting.  It took me a fair bit to get into the book and invested in it's characters but it did eventually happen.  Honestly, it was the little boy that brought that about.  I loved him.

I love when books are based on a bit of history and this one was.  It is set in Kanab, UT which I have driven through many, many times on our way from AZ to UT.  Beautiful country, that.  The house the characters live in is the part of history.

I felt like the author was trying to incorporate too many genres or separate story lines.  There is the family "secrets" discovered by Bridget in her work as an archivist, drug cartel stuff which was supposed to provide some suspense, and then a murder mystery as well.  I wish the author would have just stuck to one of those and developed the emotions of that genre more. 

By the end I was more invested in the book.  I liked the way things came together for a good ending.  But again, it was the little boy who made the story for me.  He brought each scene to life.

Content:  some mild violence

I received this book in exchange for my honest review.

3/5 stars





Tuesday, May 17, 2016

Born to Treason by E.B. Wheeler


Joan Pryce is not only a Catholic during the English Reformation but also Welsh, and comes from a family of proud revolutionaries. But when a small act of defiance entangles her in a deadly conspiracy, a single misstep may lead her straight to the gallows. Now, Joan must navigate a twisting path that could cost her life, her freedom, and her chance of finding love.


It took me a little while to get into this book but it happened and I couldn't help but feel all kinds of emotions while reading it.  I don't know that I felt a lot of emotional connection to the characters but the subject matter definitely had me thinking and feeling grateful and fortunate.  

Historical fiction is one of my favorite genres for this exact reason.  I'm able to learn about a period and place in time in a way that brings it to life.  I will admit that I'm quite ignorant when it comes to Wales and it's history.  I knew very little of the plight of the Welsh Catholics until I read this book.  Religious oppression has always existed at some point or another- in almost every country on the earth.  It's such a shame.  

Joan is a young woman and an orphan.  Her parent are both deceased and she is dependent on others for her livelihood.  I like that Joan is always trying to help the downtrodden and the sad.  She loves her Catholic religion and worship brings her peace.  I loved how Joan grows as she makes decisions and learns to rely more on her own merits and judgement instead of others telling her how and what to feel.

I could tell while reading that this author did her homework.  The book felt true to the time and I came away feeling like I learned something new.

I just loved this bit from the book.  "What the heart wants is not always what our head knows is best for us.  Then it takes great courage to follow the course we know is right.  Other times, though, it takes great faith to follow what our heart whispers, even when we see no sense or hope in it." (pg. 133)

Content:  This book is based around religion so yes, there are religious elements to it.  There is some violence and some graphic violence mentioned.  Otherwise clean.  No swearing or sexual situations.




Thursday, May 12, 2016

A Kiss and a Dream by Linda Andrews + $25 Giveaway

Kiss and a dream

She escapes with a dead woman's name and finds sanctuary with a widower reeling from his wife's betrayal. Can a love built on lies survive the truth? Gretchen Foltz honors her late father's request and ends up locked in the workhouse by her greedy brother. Dreaming of a home and freedom, she embarks on a dangerous winter journey. She awakes in a stranger's home. Hiding behind a lie, she discovers a man worthy of her trust. Kian Bryne is struggling to feed his four children. The last thing he needs is to rescue a woman stranded on the ice and running from her own demons. With his rich in-laws threatening to take custody his children, he'll make a desperate alliance to keep his family together. When a simple kiss shatters their agreement, he's left yearning for more. Can they untangle the lies before someone separates them forever?
  amazon get it 

This book was really sweet.  The beginning pulls you in right away as a young woman struggles through bitter cold, ice and snow, to save herself and two young children.  I could not help but feel so much sympathy, empathy and compassion for both Gretchen and Kian.  They have heart wrenching stories and they both deserve to love and be loved.

I enjoyed this book, even though I felt like some things were underdeveloped.  I read through this book quickly and was so very happy at the outcome.  

So sweet!  Enjoy the following excerpt!

 Excerpt: In this scene, Gretchen has learned that her tickets to freedom are fakes and fears the sheriff might send her back to the poorhouse. Kian invites Gretchen to stay with him. Gretchen scrubbed at her face. "Vill he take me to another vorkhouse?" A lock of mahogany hair trailed down her back. The silken lock brushed against his finger. He'd forgotten how soft women were. "No. Ya'll stay here. With me." He could take care of her just as well as any workhouse. And she'd have more to eat. Most days, anyway. Her eyebrows arched and she held her breath. She leaned forward in her seat. "Vith you? In this fine house?" He blinked. She obviously thought he meant for some time. He'd meant until the weather cleared. Or did he? "Yea." The money collected for her fare burned a hole in his pocket. But she had family out there, waiting. Then why hadn't they picked her up? She obviously wasn't accustomed to looking after herself. Kian could look after her. And in return, she could cook and clean and tend the children. Yes. He mentally snapped his fingers. His children liked her. If Gretchen stayed, his late wife's parents would stop harassing him about custody. Once things settled down into a routine, he could send her to her family. It was a perfect plan.  
   add to goodreads

  Linda Andrews
Author Linda Andrews Linda Andrews lives with her husband and three children in Phoenix, Arizona. When she announced to her family that her paranormal romance was to be published, her sister pronounce: “What else would she write? She’s never been normal.” All kidding aside, writing has become a surprising passion and she’s followed that passion into history, the future, and beyond. Sometimes, she incorporates her science background and other times, she allows the magic of love to take center stage in sweet historicals.
Newsletter
Blog Tour Giveaway $25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Ends 5/23/16 Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.   a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Independent One: A Billionaire Bride Pact Romance (Billionaire Bride Pact) by Cami Checketts


Haley Turnbow escapes to the tropical Isla del Sol for an ideal vacation with her five-year old. She doesn’t plan on the resident ghost stalking her and the island’s fine-looking owner drawing her in with his confident, fun personality.

Cal Johnson is king of his own island, happy and busy. A beautiful mom and her wild little boy flip his world upside down. He falls in love with both of them knowing they’re going to leave at the end of their vacation and he might not recover from the loss. 

Can these two independent adults trust their hearts or is it not worth the risk?

 * Goodreads * Amazon *

Is having the cutest shoes on your book cover a "thing" now?  I've been reading so many books with the cutest shoes on them.  I love the shoes on this cover.  How cute are they?  I wish I were young enough to wear them.  :) 

I'm always so happy to read books by Cami and I happen to really love this whole series which includes different authors writing about a group of girls who made a pact at a summer camp one year.  They can all stand alone and be read independently but when you read in order, sometimes you get to revisit old friends in later books and they mean more to you.

This book had the perfect island setting with sandy beaches and sunshine but it was the characters who stole my heart.  I loved Haley, Taz and Cal.  I loved them separately and I loved them together.  That little Taz was so endearing.  Cami captured four year old antics perfectly.  And Cal?  He is the man.

This book had an excellent flow to it.  There was a bit of suspense which was a fun addition.  I was invested in it and I loved the happily ever after ending.  If you are looking to feel good with a romantic escape and a few smiles, this is your book.  It was over way too fast for me!

Content:  Clean

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.

 

Wednesday, May 11, 2016

On Tour With The Firefighter's Refrain by Loree Lough and GIVEAWAYS!



The Firefighter's Refrain (Those Marshall Boys, #3)
The Firefighter's Refrain
(Those Marshal Boys, #3)
by Loree Lough
Adult Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 368 pages (large print)
May 1st 2016 by Harlequin Heartwarming

He's a man who wants it all…if only he could have it....

Dreams of stardom took musician and firefighter Sam Marshall far from his Colorado roots. Starting fresh in Nashville hasn't been easy, especially after an injury on the job, but he's working his way to the Grand Ole Opry one open mike at a time, teaching at the fire station to make ends meet. Yet Sam's intentions are shaken when he meets the lovely owner of a local café. Suddenly, Sam's dreams are filled with her. Too bad that as the daughter of country-music wannabes, Finn Leary's been there, done that. She'll never choose a musician. So how can Sam possibly get the girl and keep the guitar?


It's another Harlequin Heartwarming book!  This is a sweet romance, perfect for girls like me who like their books clean.

This is the third book in the Those Marshall Boys series.  You don't have to read the previous books to enjoy this one, but sometimes it fun to read in sequencial order because you get to see characters from previous books as you go and they mean more to you.

I really liked both Sam and Finn but for very different reasons.  Finn is focused and so completely devoted to her sister.  Her life has been hard and Finn has shouldered the responsibility of so many things by herself.  You have to admire that sort of character.  But, because of her past and even her present life, Finn functions like an island.  She doesn't let people in and she doesn't trust easily.  That's why Sam is perfect for Finn.  He is solid, steady and smart.  He is willing to put in the time to earn Finn's trust.  I liked that.

This book was good.  I felt like the plot swirled in the same place at times without a lot of forward movement so for me, it was the characters that made this book shine.


Other Books in the Series

Once a Marine
Once a Marine

(Those Marshal Boys, #1)
by Loree Lough
Adult Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 377 pages (large print)
February 1st 2015 by Harlequin Heartwarming

Does she even need a hero?

Summer Lane is no damsel in distress. For the past two years, she's been battling her way back from her worst nightmare, all by herself. So she doesn't need the fabulous former Marine Zach Marshall swooping in to save her.

But she needn't worry. Zach has hung up his shining armor. His instinct to rescue has only brought him heartache, and he's not about to risk it all again--even though everything about Summer makes him yearn to help.

Will she accept his challenge to step up and conquer her fears on her own--even her deepest fears, like trust...and love?


Sweet Mountain Rancher (Those Marshall Boys, #2)Sweet Mountain Rancher
(Those Marshal Boys, #2)
by Loree Lough
Adult Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 385 pages (large print)
September 1st 2015 by Harlequin Heartwarming

He can say no to everyone but her...

Nate Marshall used to be a yes-man... until being so agreeable cost him dearly. But Eden Quinn has a way of getting him to reconsider his "just say no" policy. Which is how a bunch of troubled teens end up at his ranch for the weekend. Nate can't help but be attracted to the woman who keeps them in line.

This cowboy knows Eden's no damsel in distress, yet hers isn't a one-woman job. If she must do everything on her own, how can he help her... let alone get her to fall for him?


Bestselling author Loree Lough once sang for her supper, performing across the U.S. and Canada. Now and then, she blows the dust from her 6-string to croon a tune or two, but mostly, she writes novels that have earned hundreds of industry and "Readers' Choice" awards, 4- and 5-star reviews, and 7 book-to-movie options. Her 105th book, Sweet Mountain Rancher, #2 in “Those Marshall Boys” series for Harlequin Heartwarming, released in August, 2015. Also new on the Latest Release list, Guardians of the Heart, (#2 “Secrets on Sterling Street historical series from Whitaker House). Next up, Healing of the Heart, #3 in the “Secrets” series…and a brand new 3-book series for Harlequin Heartwarming, releasing between 2016 and 2017. Stay tuned for more in 2016 and beyond!
Tour Giveaway

ONE WINNER will receive a $25 Amazon gift card and The Firefighter's Refrain (signed print if US, ebook if outside US)

ONE WINNER will receive Those Marshall Boys Series, Once a MarineSweet Mountain Rancher, and The Firefighter's Refrain (signed print if US, ebook if outside US)

ONE WINNER will receive The Firefighter's Refrain (signed print if US, ebook if outside US)
Ends May 20th

Tuesday, May 10, 2016

The Earl's Betrothal by Karen Tuft + $25 and Book Giveaway!



Out of the war and into another, Captain Lord Anthony Hargreaves finds the politics of romance to be as uninviting a battle as the one that nearly cost him his life in Badajoz, Spain.

Wounded both mentally and physically from the Peninsular War in 1812, Anthony returns home to find that his older brother has died, placing Anthony next in line to inherit the estate. But he’s not ready for such responsibilities. And when Anthony’s dying father pleads with him to marry and produce an heir to preserve the family title, it nearly sends Anthony over the edge; nevertheless he dutifully faces a long line of hopeful young ladies who await him. No one grabs his attention, though, like Amelia Clarke, his mother’s stunning companion, who is off-limits for the earl. But when Anthony unwittingly puts Amelia in a compromising situation, he dedicates himself to protecting her reputation.

But the horrors Anthony faced while away from home have left him feeling broken and tormented. And Anthony finds himself drawn to Miss Clarke, the only one who can chase away his demons, but he must overcome the hostility of a society driven by class, a jealous duke bent on revenge, and himself—for could Amelia ever really love a haunted man?


Ooh, I really loved this book.  That's always a good way to start out a review, right?  

The characters in this book felt real to me and I really liked them.  They had so many good attributes that it was easy to settle in and enjoy them.  

Amelia is kind.  She is at the mercy of others for her welfare and she knows it, yet she conducts herself with dignity and decorum.  She is smart and she knows how to stand up for herself without appearing arrogant or rude.  I love the quiet strength she has.  

Even though Anthony is struggling with the awful events of the war he was involved in, he is also a kind person.  He shows respect to others.  He is a very duty conscious person and his desire to protect others is so admirable.  

I loved how the characters circled and swirled around each other.  There is chemistry and interest and it all just felt good.  This will be going down as one of my favorite books for this month!

Content:  Clean

I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.



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Monday, May 9, 2016

New Release! The Captain (Griffin Force #2) by Julie Coulter Bellon


Captain Colt Mitchell is part of the elite Griffin Force team hunting down terrorist Nazer al-Raimi. After an attack on the Canadian Parliament buildings, the team gets good intel on Nazer’s whereabouts. They plan to grab him, but when the mission goes wrong, Colt is captured and dragged away. Bruised, restrained, and disoriented, Colt is stunned to see Brenna Wilson, the Canadian intelligence officer who broke his heart years ago, standing next to Nazer. But how deep is she in the operation and can she help Colt escape?

After the devastating attack on Canadian soil, Brenna is recruited to go undercover to find out what Nazer is planning next. She’s close to her goal until her former flame Colt Mitchell is taken hostage. Walking away from him has always been her biggest regret and she knows she has to save him, even if it blows her mission. Taking matters into her own hands, she pulls off a daring escape, but Colt and Brenna must learn to trust each other again if they want to stay alive. With their hearts and their lives on the line can they survive long enough to stop Nazer from ravaging another country’s sense of security?

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

I always feel like such a lucky girl to be able to read and review for Julie Bellon.  Her books are so good- full of military suspense and action but not in an overly graphic way.  I love the bit of romance that weaves it's way through the story.  It's never the center stage but in this case, it was the driving force behind the way the events unfolded.

Colt and Brenna have a history.  They knew each other intimately before but went their separate ways due to Brenna's choices.  Imagine coming face to face with the person you loved when you are a hostage and she is undercover as a slave.  Wild set up, that.  

This book has awesome pacing- never a dull or droopy moment.  I love that.  I started the book dropped right into the very thick of things and it just never let up.  I was completely engaged the whole time.  It left me wondering at the end if that was a shorter book because it felt like it was over too fast.  So good.  I love this series!

Content:  Clean romance, some violence (torture, death, injuries, drugging)

I received a copy of this book from the author for my honest review.

Friday, May 6, 2016

A Timeless Romance Anthology: Road Trip Collection

Six new contemporary romance novellas:

WHAT FALLING FEELS LIKE by Jolene Betty Perry
High school was years ago, and Kendell is ready to admit that Tyler, her best friend’s younger brother, has matured into a good-looking man. But the once-popular Kendell is recovering from a marriage-gone-wrong, and she regrets turning Tyler down for high school prom. On their road trip to deliver a refurbished camper, Kendell rediscovers all the reasons she liked Tyler, but it might be too late to rekindle their friendship.

ANTIQUES ROAD TRIP by Sarah M. Eden
Kelsey is living out her dream for the weekend as she participates in a reality show contest by living on an 18th century film set. The contestant who wins the show receives a trip to England and $100k, more than enough to get her through grad school. When she meets Devon, who was coerced by his sister to participate, friendship blossoms. When things go wrong for Kelsey, Devon is there to help, and she soon realizes that winning the contest isn’t what she most desires.

WOULDN’T IT BE NICE by Ranee` S. Clark
When Jacqueline's boyfriend Colin drops out of their long-planned road trip with friends to put his job first—again—it's the final nail in the coffin of their dying relationship. But then Hudson, her best friend’s brother, takes Colin's spot for the road trip, and Jacqueline’s disappointment in her ex takes a back seat to the chance for reestablishing the close ties she once had with Hudson. When their friendship detours into romance, it forces Jacqueline to question her reasons for breaking up with Colin and her future with Hudson.

HEAD OVER HEELS by Annette Lyon
Tristan is proud to be an entrepreneur, running a popular singles’ lifestyle blog. So when she gets an offer to cover a singles convention in Las Vegas, she needs to find a way to get there from another freelance job in Salt Lake without breaking into her personal savings. Her friend sets her up with a co-worker who happens to be driving that way, and Tristan is more than surprised to come face-to-face with a man she has a lot in common with, not to mention seems to click with right away. The two decide to play a prank on Tristan’s friend, and pretend that they are smitten with each other, but soon, the lines between pretend and reality start to fade.

TWO DOZEN ROSES by Heather B. Moore
Dayna reluctantly takes time out of her busy work life to drive her mother up the Pacific Coast Highway from California to her brother’s home in Oregon. Strangely enough, they keep running into two brothers who are traveling the same route in honor of their sister’s memory. The older brother Garrett is a merciless flirt, but the younger brother Roman is who captures Dayna’s attention. Soon she realizes that the brothers are extremely competitive, and she’s just become their next target.

TRY, TRY AGAIN by Aubrey Mace
Sarah’s secret crush on Justin takes a sudden turn when he breaks up with his girlfriend and declares that he’s interested in Sarah. She believes he’s just on the rebound, and they slowly drift apart. Six months later, Sarah still can’t stop thinking about what might have been. She ropes her friend into taking a road trip to visit Justin, hoping for a second chance. When Justin sees her, he wants answers, and Sarah has to decide if she’s brave enough to finally tell him the truth.

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

I always enjoy these Timeless Romance Anthologies but I especially liked this one.  Do I say that every time?  This was one of my favorites.  (I think I might say that every time as well)  These are some of my favorite authors and it's awesome having stories by them all in one place.  (I know I say that every time!)

The road trip theme is such a fun one.  I loved how each of these authors took it to a different place and in a different way.  Sarah Eden really knocked it out of the park with her take on the road trip theme.  So fun!  

All sweet romances.  All clean.  All will leave you with a smile in your heart and hopefully on your face as well!  I've got nothing but love for this collection!