Friday, December 7, 2018

Wager for a Wife by Karen Tuft + $25 and Book Giveaway!


William Barlow's life has been forever altered: his estranged father is dead, and William has inherited the title of Viscount Farleigh. Along with the title comes a neglected estate, an enormous amount of gambling debt, and one astounding acquisition that will turn William's world upside down . . .

It is her first London Season, and Lady Louisa Hargreaves could not be more pleased. She has attracted the attention of the Earl of Kerridge, and the two are on the cusp of an official betrothal. That is, until she learns of a generations-old family debt: her grandfather gambled her hand in marriage and lost, and now Louisa must pay the price. She will marry not the earl but a man she just met, who has taken her freedom in one fell swoop. Even as she struggles to understand the handsome and aloof man she is to wed, Louisa is irresistibly drawn to him—and he to her. But she soon realizes he is harboring secrets, and as her wedding day approaches, she must discover what her future husband is hiding before she makes the gravest mistake of her life.


I have to say first that I loved William from the very beginning.  His sense of loyalty, his determination, and his vulnerability all combine to make him so endearing as a character.  I love when books give me a very clear feeling of who the characters are right from the beginning.  It makes it so easy to attach myself to their story, their heartache and their hope.

This is a sweet regency romance.  It felt all things gentle and proper while reading it.  The author did a great job of creating great visuals for my mind so I could easily make the people and places come to life in my head.  There is an extensive cast of secondary characters but I never felt overwhelmed with keeping them straight.  The people in Williams life, while not blood family, sure gave that feeling of family and I loved it.  

Will and Louisa couldn't be more different.  Louisa has a gift of words.  She is a verbal being and communicates well.  Will on the other hand, doesn't.  He doesn't use his word often or well, but he still feels deeply.  I love how Will recognizes this in Louisa and allows her to verbalize because he knows she needs it and he tries so hard to give her what she wants from him.  He doesn't really always succeed, but he tries.  See?  How can I not love Will?

This book was very enjoyable and ever so sweet.

Content:  kissing

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.


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Thursday, December 6, 2018

The Enemy Next Door and Other Misunderstandings (Strawberry Lake Estates Mystery Book 2) by Crissy Sharp


Jocelyn Kross always imagined her life differently—more loft in Upper Eastside Manhattan, less burned down house in small town Montana. Her temporary digs aren’t much better, a tiny apartment off the side of someone’s house. When the owner turns out to be her sworn enemy, Cade Warner, it’s just the rotten cherry on her terrible day.

Strange things are happening in Strawberry Lake Estates. Cade cannot afford to be distracted by his new neighbor, someone he’s known his whole life, and yet doesn’t really know at all. When Cade’s employee turns up dead, solving the sudden crime wave in their town turns a lot more personal.

As Jocelyn and Cade work together to solve the murder and help their town, they look pasts old grudges and see each other in a new light. When the investigation puts their lives in jeopardy, they find love sometimes comes in the most inconvenient ways.

 * Goodreads * Amazon *

I have been looking forward to reading this book since I heard it was coming.  This is the second book of this series and I would say that you probably need to read this series in order because it follows a continuing mystery.  Parts of the mystery are solved with each book but the big picture mystery is ongoing.  It's a fun way to write a series!

This is the type of mystery I love.  It doesn't get too intense and there is plenty of relationship building and character development to make me feel invested and connected to more than just the plot.  

Cade got a bad wrap in the first book.  I was so happy to have him starring in this book.  Cade is awesome.  I love his kindness to Jocelyn's daughter and his attention to details in the lives of the people around him.  The backstory and history between Cade and Jocelyn came out slowly but really helped to create a solid foundation for their present frustrations and growing friendship.  

I'm really enjoying this series and I'll be anxiously awaiting the next installment!

Content:  mild violence, peril, kissing

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

Wednesday, December 5, 2018

Author Lucy McConnell Spotlight + $25 Giveaway

 

 https://amzn.to/2zJgoOd 
   
Frost buried her face in her hands, feeling all the pressure to save Christmas. Neither Stella nor Robyn had the potential for love yet. They were starting from scratch. But she had more than potential; she had an invitation. It was up to her to find Tannon; get him to profess his love to her; and save her family, the North Pole, and Christmas for children all over the world. Oh, Tannon, I hope you're ready to love me. 

Frost Kringle broke one of the North Pole's rules the day she replied to a letter from Tannon Cebu; but, her Kringle-enhanced empathy wouldn't allow her to walk away from the anguish in his words. What began as a disobedient impulse grew into friendship and eventually love. If her secret romance is revealed, she'll be banished from her home and family. When the Kringles discover Christmas Magic is dangerously off balance, Frost musters up the courage to meet Tannon in person with the hope that they can marry and save Christmas. While she's away from her precious Letters Room, her secret is blown right open and she's exiled. In order to make it home for Christmas, Frost has to bring Christmas cheer to those who need it most.

Tannon, is tired of the corporate grind and wants out. He's decided to sell his paper mill and retire to a quiet corner where he can raise his son in peace. His announcement, right before the holidays, creates an uproar as employees wonder if they'll have a job in the New Year. No one in town feels like celebrating and they have little hope of a happy holiday. If Frost can get Tannon, and the town of Elderberry, to believe in Christmas once again, she'll make it home and save Santa's workshop from turning into a block of ice and ruining Christmas for children all over the world. Trouble arises when Tannon's interest turn to Frost more than to Christmas. She walks a tinsel-fine line between falling for him and failing in her Christmas quest. With her whole world out of balance, Frost must look deep inside herself to bring about a Christmas miracle--with a little help from her jolly family.   

 

Frost Kringle rubbed her arms. “It’s not my year. I’m the youngest. You two should find your husbands first,” she told her older, single sisters. 

 Robyn huffed. “Apparently, Christmas Magic doesn’t give a partridge in a pear tree about birth order. And I don’t, either. Come with us—just to get used to being south-er.” 

Frost hesitated, searching for a polite way to tell them to jump out of a flying sleigh. 
Stella took her hesitation as a silent agreement and forged on. “Perfect. Where should we go? I was thinking of heading back to Alaska.” 

 “No thanks.” Robyn popped another chocolate. “We need someplace new.” 

 Frost puzzled the question of where they should go. She puzzled it high and she puzzled it low. And while she puzzled, a strange thought came to be. A thought she thought just might be the key. She tried to hold it in, did her best to be good. But there was a part of Frost Kringle that never quite could. “Oregon,” Frost whispered, staring off into space. “Elderberry, Oregon. That’s the place.” 

Both her sisters stared at her. “Why there?” asked Stella. 

 Frost cleared her throat, breaking through the fog that had clouded her mind while at the same time giving herself clarity. She mentally stumbled to come up with an excuse that wouldn’t reveal her biggest and best-kept secret. “It’s got a large populate of single men. There’s a, um, paper company and mill and they make beautiful stationary.” Like cream envelopes with gold trim that bring the most wonderful letters. 

Stella shrugged. “As long as it’s got men, I’m game.” 

Robyn poked Stella in the arm. “That’s your problem—you need to be pickier.” 

“Do you have a better idea?” 

Frost held her breath. She’d dreamed and dreamed of going to Elderberry, of meeting Tannon, of finally seeing the man whose words had captured her heart. If she was a romantic, it was because each mail delivery included a little bit of romance just for her. 

 “No,” admitted Robyn. 

“Okay, then.” Stella slapped her hand on the table. “Meeting adjourned. We’re going to Elderberry the day after tomorrow. Have your bags packed.” 

Frost threaded her fingers together under the table, holding her hands tight, tight, tight in an effort to hold in her excitement as her sisters left the room. She was going to meet Tannon. 

“I’m going to meet Tannon,” she said out loud. With a squeal, she threw her hands in the air. 

This trip may be the best thing that ever happened to her, or it may be the ending of a long and special friendship. Either way, the time had come to meet her crush face-to-face.

 https://amzn.to/2zJgoOd
https://amzn.to/2zJgoOd 

 

I have loved all of Lucy McConnell's books, and this one definitely lived up to my expectations. I love the other books in this series and this one did not disappoint. It was an enjoyable story that kept me reading late into the night. I can’t wait for next installment! I found Marrying Miss Kringle to be a fun and lovely read. It is light in nature with a feeling of watching one of those Lifetime Christmas movies, but only in book form.  

       
 

  

Author Lucy McConnell Award-winning author, Lucy McConnell, loves Christmas, romance, chocolate and Elvis. After graduating from the University of Utah, she became an editor at an advertising agency before moving on to teach in the marketing department of the local community college. She loved teaching and often misses the academic environment. Lucy retired from teaching and began to write articles and sweet romance novels. She has been published in national magazines, newspapers, short story compilations, and she writes cookbooks under the name Christina Dymock. If she's not at the computer, you can find her trying to keep up with her husband and four kids on the ski slopes, on a bike, in the kitchen, or on a horse.  




 


 

      

Giveaway Details $25 Amazon Gift Code or $25 in PayPal Cash Ends 1/1/19 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 may be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Amazon, BookBub, Instagram, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. This giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader & Clean Wholesome Romance and is sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.   a Rafflecopter giveaway

Tuesday, December 4, 2018

Until We Kissed (Pine Valley #6) by Heather B. Moore

https://amzn.to/2QcX9GP 

Pine Valley librarian Livvy Harmon has big dreams, which include marrying Dr. Slade McKinney. Trouble is, he’s only kissed her once in their four months of dating, and it wasn’t all that great. But Livvy isn’t ready to give up yet on hooking such an amazing man, even though Slade seems to have time for everyone but her.

When Livvy keeps running into writer Mason Rowe, who seems to be camping out in her library to finish his book under strict orders from his agent, Livvy at first keeps him at arm’s length. But the more their friendship grows, the more she finds that her dream relationship with her doctor boyfriend isn’t so dreamy after all.


Ooh, this book made me so happy!  I loved the librarian/author characters! (of course I did.)  And what can be better than some sneaky hot kissing between the shelves?  Ha.  It was awesome.

Livvy is a funny girl.  She definitely starts this book with some firm goals of marrying a doctor.  Even if the doctor doesn't really give her the time of day.  Luckily Mason walks into her life and starts showing her that her doctor man might not be all that great.  Livvy and Mason start with friendship because that's a very good place to start.  Also, Livvy has a boyfriend so there is that too.  I loved how their friendship bloomed and then changed.  The attraction was zingy and fun.  Did I mention the kissing yet?  Because it was awesome.  :)  

I love this whole series.  It's one of my favorites.  This story is probably in my top two favorites of the series.  I'm looking forward to the next book, Let's Begin Again, which is now up for pre-order and will be coming out the end of January.

Content:  kissing

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own. 
 
PINE VALLEY SERIES:
Worth the Risk
Where I Belong
Say You Love Me
Waiting for You
Finding Us
Until We Kissed

12 Days of Clean Romance With Author Brooke St. James FREE BOOK + $25 Giveaway



Abigail Spencer loved her job. She was a marine biologist who maintained some of Miami's most spectacular ponds and aquariums. She had the opportunity to travel around the city, meeting new people and working in beautiful locations. So, even though it was just another day at the office when she suddenly met the man of her dreams, she wasn't in an office at all. Every girl imagines meeting her prince charming. It's doubtful, however, that any of these fantasies include it happening when they're soaked with sweat and knee-deep in pond scum. Fate can be funny that way.

 

"Oh, thank goodness!" Tori said when I walked into the office that morning. She was holding the phone to her ear, but she was talking to me as I approached her U-shaped reception desk. She stared at me from over her reading glasses, and she waved me forward like she had been anxiously awaiting my arrival. I was twenty minutes early, so I had no idea why she was so relieved.
"Abigail's here now," she said to the person on the phone. "She just walked in. I'm looking at her right now. Okay, I'll tell her. Bye." I stood in front of Tori's desk and watched as she hung up the phone before looking at me with a relieved smile.
"I'm so glad you're here."
"I'm always here," I said cautiously.
"I mean, I'm glad you're early. I was gonna call you and tell you to hurry. That was Lance. We have to rearrange your schedule today. He needs you to head out on a pond job… like right now. It's a priority."

 

  

 This was definitely another winner! Loved Ash and Abigail and how their relationship grew. Brooke's books are always an instant click for me, I don't even have to read the blurb of what its about. I appreciate that she writes clean books and would recommend them highly. I've read everything she's written and can't wait for the next!!

 What a great book! The main characters' backgrounds are refreshingly original. So many romances are formulaic or copycats of other books out there. Additionally, the chemistry between Ash and Abigail is so strong it's practically tangible. This book is the perfect mix of sweet and spicy. Read it!

 I loved this book- when are the rest coming out?!?!?! I truly relate to Abigail as I am in a profession where I am usually more dirty than clean. I appreciate the religious aspect of the book without it being pushed hard, it's just part of the characters life. Thank you Brooke for amazing books and keeping them at a price that buying the entire series doesn't break my bank account!

 

 

 

 

  Author Brooke St. James Brooke St. James is a bestselling author of contemporary romance novels with Christian and inspirational themes and happy endings. She was born and raised in south Louisiana but has had the opportunity to travel and live throughout the U.S. An avid reader, writer, audio book addict, and fan of all things artistic, Brooke constantly has her hands in some creative activity. She's currently back home in Louisiana enjoying life with her husband, children, and two lazy dogs. 
 


 

Get copies of All In & Something Precious for just 99 cents!


 

  

Giveaway Details $25 Amazon Gift Code or $25 in PayPal Cash Ends 1/1/19 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 may be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Amazon, BookBub, Instagram, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. This giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader & Clean Wholesome Romance and is sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.   a Rafflecopter giveaway

Monday, December 3, 2018

My Brother's Bride (Serendipity #2) by Rachael Anderson +$25 Giveaway!

       

 Abigail Nash leads a lonely existence. Her mother died giving birth to her, her father’s business dealings took him away more often than not, and her ailing great-aunt, unable to provide much in the way of companionship, was a lack-luster guardian at best. So when her dear friends offered to launch her into London society, it appeared Abby’s life was taking a turn for the better, with suitors and social engagements aplenty. When she marries a proclaimed darling of the ton, it seems she will at last settle into the life of her dreams. But appearances aren’t always what they seem, and dreams often become disappointments. Just months into her marriage, Abby finds herself widowed, penniless, increasing, and determined to never hope again. But when her late husband’s brother, the Earl of Brigston, attempts to thaw the numbness surrounding her heart, Abby must decide if she has it in her to risk another chance at happiness, knowing the odds are not in her favor.  


Friends, it's always a good day when I get to read a new book by Rachael Anderson.  I've been reading her books since the very beginning and I love the way she has ventured out from contemporary romance into a new genre, regency, and made her place in it.  I am loving these regency romances so much.  I don't really think it's a genre thing though.  Rachael Anderson just writes in a way that I love.  Her books are so easy to settle in with and they just feel good to me.

I thought this story was perfectly paced.  The knowledge of the characters came bit by bit, just enough to keep my interest and curiosity peaked but giving me plenty of time to really settle in and get to know them more intimately so they felt like friends.  I loved the growing awareness between Abigail and Brigston and how gentle Brigston was with all things Abby related.  Abby is definitely someone who could use a bit of gentleness.

I loved this book.  💚

Content:  kissing, mention of a rape with some general details.  

- I received a complimentary copy of this book.  All opinions expressed are my own.

Excerpt:
When Brigston entered the kitchen, Abby’s back was partially to him, so she didn’t immediately see him. Her brow was furrowed in concentration as she whipped something in a bowl. She paused to lift the spoon, only to frown at the white liquid dripping from it.
“Are you certain this will thicken into a cream?” she asked.
A flash of irritation crossed Monsieur Roch's face until he spotted Morgan and seemed to think better of it. He managed a patient tone in his accented French. “It takes time, my lady.”
Morgan stifled a chuckle as Abby examined another spoonful of the liquid. “I’ve been whipping it for several minutes, but it doesn’t seem even a little thicker to me. Have I forgotten to add something?”
“No,” said the cook in clipped tones.
Morgan stepped forward and leaned in close. “If your arm is tired—”
Abby jumped, and what liquid remained on the spoon splattered across Morgan’s face. She spun around, her eyes growing wide with horror when she saw what she’d done.
He wiped a dab from his nose and tasted it. “A little more sugar, perhaps?”
“Brigston! I’m so dreadfully sorry.” She dropped the spoon into the bowl and grabbed a rag from a nearby wash basin, dabbing it across his face.
“Not that rag!” cried the cook. “It was only just used to mop the floors.”
Abby dropped it as though it had burned her, and Morgan tried not to cringe at the thought of filthy water coating his face.
Monsieur Roch retrieved a clean rag and held it out to him, appearing apologetic. He flicked another irritated glance at Abby before returning to his work.
As Morgan wiped the cream from his face, he wondered what Abby would do or say next. Offer another fumbled apology? Make her excuses and flee? Pretend the incident never happened and return to her labors? He never knew what to expect from her.
Her face scarlet, she cleared her throat and lifted her adorably determined chin. “You are most welcome, my lord.”
He raised a brow. “For what, my lady?”
“I have heard that cream does wonders for one’s complexion, and it seems the rumors are correct. Your skin appears much . . . creamier.”

 

 

Author Rachael Anderson A USA Today bestselling author, Rachael Anderson is the mother of four and is pretty good at breaking up fights, or at least sending guilty parties to their rooms. She can’t sing, doesn’t dance, and despises tragedies. But she recently figured out how yeast works and can now make homemade bread, which she is really good at eating.

       

  Giveaway Details $25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Ends 1/1/19 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

Sunday, December 2, 2018

12 Days of Clean Romance $100 Kick Off Giveaway


12 Days of Clean Romance

December 2018

During the month of December, we will be featuring 12 Authors who write clean romance!
There will be $400 worth of Giveaways plus great deals on books!
You are invited to come join the fun, learn about these great authors & find your next favorite book!
There will be FREE ebooks, awesome sales & great giveaways!
 
Check out this great list of featured authors who are sponsoring this event!
 
Never miss a giveaway, freebie or sale by signing up for Clean Wholesome Romance's Reader Newsletter!

Are you a blogger or reader who would be willing to post about this event on your blog or social media? Sign up here.

Are you an author who writes clean romance? Learn more about CWR upcoming events here, or Sign up for my Author Newsletter.
 

To start things off we have a $100 Giveaway!


Giveaway Details $100 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Ends 1/1/19 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 may be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Amazon, BookBub, Instagram, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. This giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader & Clean Wholesome Romance and is sponsored by the participating authors. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. a Rafflecopter giveaway