$50 Book Blast: A Pirate at Pembroke by Danielle Thorne

 

A Pirate at Pembroke by Danielle Thorne Keeping company with a reputed pirate is one thing, but falling in love with him could ruin the eccentric Crestwood family for good... Sophie Crestwood is never going to catch a husband, and she isn’t even sure she wants one. Her father is a gossip, her mother has her nose in a book, and little Jack has shamefully been dismissed from boarding school. Worst of all, a pirate moves next door into Pembroke Hall. When Sophie's sent to a matchmaking party at a neighboring estate, the pirate from Pembroke arrives and distracts everyone from the summer festivities. Unguarded, her feelings about the mysterious Captain Murdock bloom into a trusted friendship that Sophie fears may come to mean more than anyone could ever suspect.

 

Praise There have been only a handful of times when a book truly blows me away. This is one of those times. It's full of emotions from laughter to tears and all in between. There are heroes and villains. There's mystery, humor, danger, and romance all contained within its pages. As I read, I became fully engaged with the characters. ~D. Pearson

 This sweet romance will give you all the feels and keep you turning pages. Romance, mystery and a little humor made this an engaging and satisfying read. ~F. Brown

 

 He held a handful of her shift in his fist. She had not snagged it after all. Rather, he had snagged her. She jerked in surprise, but his hold kept her from falling backward and tumbling down the stairs. His other hand trembled as it balanced precariously on a carved dragon head at the top of his cane.
 "What do you think you are doing?"
"I… I heard music and followed it." His eyes blazed with accusation, and it unnerved her.
"I'm so sorry," she said in a choking voice.
Her nose tingled again. She touched it with her fingers to make it stop.
"It's not possible you heard music from all the way down in your room." Sophie took a nervous breath. He stood there, one step above her like a giant, her bedclothes gripped in his hand so tight it shook. She hadn't heard him shuffle down the hall after her. He moved as silent as a ghost when he wanted -- even with a cane. She found the courage to meet his penetrating gaze.
"I did hear something from my room. Then I was in the hall." Captain Murdock waited for a long pause, while the dust they had stirred up in the rugs pirouetted in the air and into Sophie's eyes and nose.
"You should not be out of bed," he said. Sophie swallowed down her frightened apprehension. She tried to beg his pardon, but her lungs failed her, and she coughed in reflex. She covered her mouth with her fingers.
"I'm so sorry," she repeated between them, her cheeks hot with humiliation. She stared at the fistful of her garments he'd snatched, aware his eyes examined her from her straight, waist-length hair down to her naked ankles. With a jerk, he dropped her shift like it burned his hand.
"Go to bed," he said in a quiet voice. Sophie's nose had not quit tingling and itching.
"Yes, sir," she said at once, but not soon enough to keep a sneeze from erupting. It came so fast and without warning, she had no chance to catch it before it doused him with all her rejection. Horrified, she stumbled down the next step, thankful the old handrail held fast. When she glanced back, he was wiping off his shirt with a look of disgust.



Author Danielle Thorne Danielle Thorne is the author of a dozen books, including five-star classic romance and adventure in several genres. A graduate of BYU-Idaho, she has edited for both Solstice and Desert Breeze Publishing and participated in writing organizations and contests over the years picking up awards and recognition for her work. When not researching or writing fiction, Danielle freelances as a historical non-fiction author for young adults from her home in Atlanta, Georgia. She loves to hear from romance readers through her website and appreciates feedback and reviews. Her next adventure, The Story of Queen Victoria 200 Years After Her Birth, is coming 2018 with Atlantic Publishing.

Website * Twitter * Instagram

 

$50 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash Giveaway Ends 5/17/18 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. The giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. a Rafflecopter giveaway

Say You Love Me (Pine Valley #3) by Heather B. Moore

Clara Benson is not looking for a relationship, especially not after her losing her teaching position, followed by a disastrous breakup with her fiancé, and the sudden death of the grandma who raised her. In fact, Clara picks up and moves to escape her mess of memories. She hopes that Pine Valley will be the perfect place to heal from heartache.

When she meets her boss’s lawyer, Dawson Harris, Clara can’t deny her attraction. Yet she’s determined to choose herself, and her healing, over a guy who might be charming, attractive, and oh, so appealing. Easy, right? But when Dawson becomes the one person who can straighten out her mess, she realizes that finding herself doesn’t have to be mean losing Dawson.

 * Goodreads * Amazon * 

I've been waiting for this story since the very beginning of this series!  I'm so glad Dawson stepped into the limelight with this book but man, did his story tug at my heartstrings.  Poor Dawson was put through the emotional ringer but it was awesome to see him emerging like a butterfly into something better.  Clara is in a similar place but somehow it was Dawson that really captured my attention and my heart.  I loved how gentle and patient he was with Clara and how hard he tried.  It was endearing.

I'm have loved this Pine Valley series and I'm sort of bummed that I'm not getting more of them.   Maybe if I beg for a few more?  Also, I have series cover love for all the books in this series.  Isn't this cover fantastic?  The fonts, the pop of red.  Love.  This book falls into my easy reading, contemporary romance genre.  It's where I go when I want to escape. 

Content:  clean, kissing

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

 

Perfectly Misunderstood (Perfect #4) by Robin Daniels

Jayden Valdez is an overachieving intellectual. Mike McGinnes is Franklin High School’s dumbest jock. Even though they barely know each other, she finds his personality repulsive and he thinks she’s got a giant stick up her you know what.

Mike and Jayden are surprised and annoyed when their teacher pairs them together for Spanish tutoring. Both feel it’s a complete waste of time, since nobody could learn from a person who bugs the crap out of them. Not to mention that their reputations might be ruined if people realize what they’re doing.

But it doesn’t take long for Jayden to discover that Mike has a secret—he isn’t the person he appears to be. Much to her dismay, Jayden finds 'Secret Mike' strangely attractive. And for some crazy reason, Mike is amused by Jayden’s clever insults and witty banter. Suddenly, they have a much bigger problem than their mutual disdain. What started as irritating tension is beginning to feel more like romantic tension and acting on it would be a very bad idea. 

 * Amazon * Goodreads * 

I think this book may be my favorite of the whole Perfect series.  Why?  I'm not sure exactly.  I just really like the push and pull between Jayden and Mike.  The whole misjudging thing in the beginning, the tension, the building friendship. . .  It was all so fun!  I loved the dual perspectives in this one and how it really helped me make those deeper personal connections with both characters.

This is definitely a YA book, on the younger side of that spectrum.  The characters are in high school, they act like typical high school students and it all felt very true to age and perspective.  I wish I would have had a Mike to tutor me when I took Spanish in high school.  Heaven knows I needed it!

I smiled a lot reading this book.  I read through it quickly and enjoyed it for the most part.  I would recommend taking a look at the content warning before reading or handing this book to your young teenager.

Content Description: This is a stand-alone YA contemporary romance with companion novels. While part of a series, each book can be enjoyed independently. It contains minor language, innuendo, crude humor, kissing, and conversations that mention sex. There are no sexual relationships, written or implied, and there's no explicit language.

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

Robin Daniels is a sixteen-year-old trapped in a middle-aged body. She's married to an amazing guy and has five cute but crazy kids. When she's not chasing children or writing books, she's coaching volleyball or working on her blog. She tries to read as much as possible, but often gets distracted by Netflix. Robin's favorites include napping, dessert, pedicures, Christmas, Arizona winters, and Diet Coke.

Robin’s Links:

Amazon Page: https://www.amazon.com/Robin-Daniels/e/B001KMMURI

Website: https://www.robinsbooksandblogs.com/

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A Highlander's Hidden Heart by Julie Coulter Bellon + Book Giveaway!

Despite being the daughter of a duke, shy Elizabeth Barrington becomes a target for the cruel whisperings of the ton. She would rather stay at home with her sketchbook indefinitely than give them more to gossip about, but when a dashing new earl arrives, everything changes. His Scottish brogue and easy acceptance draw her in and she finds herself falling in love. Before she can act on her feelings, however, her father promises her to a man who hides his cruel behavior behind a mask of civility. With her future at stake, Elizabeth must make a choice—do her duty or choose a love that could cost her everything.

Alec Ramsay never expected to inherit an earldom or settle in England, but he leaves behind his life in the Scottish Highlands and comes to London. After meeting his new neighbor, the beautiful and soft-spoken Lady Elizabeth, Alec can’t wait to further their acquaintance. It doesn’t take long in her company, however, for Alec to see he’s in danger of losing his heart. But when long-held prejudices rear their ugly head, Alec is caught between doing what is right and his new role as an English gentleman. Has he finally found the love he’s waited his whole life for, only to lose her in the web of unfair judgments and proper English traditions?

 * Amazon * Goodreads *

It's always fun to see an author you love branch out and do something new.  Over the years I have loved Julie Bellon and her military suspense romance books.  They are some of my favorites!  This book is quite outside that genre.  A complete one-eighty.  And while I did enjoy this book, I'm still the biggest fan of those military romances!  I hope a get a new one of those soon!  (Plus, as a little side note here, I feel like so many authors are switching to write in this "regency" genre and there are SO many of them out there right now.  I'm longing for a good, clean romantic  military suspense which there aren't nearly as many of.)

I think what I loved most about this book was Alec.  He meets Elizabeth and is completely unfazed by her obvious struggles.  His acceptance of her is instant and heart warming.  Alec is fiercely loyal and he is, above all else, a true gentleman.  I loved him.  Well, the thought of him in a kilt, sporting the strong Scottish brogue didn't hurt anything either.  😉

I didn't completely buy into how everything went down with Elizabeth's father but other than that, this was a sweet story with characters that are easy to root for.

This is a short book (maybe novella size) but the story felt whole and complete.  

Content:  clean, some kissing

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

Tour schedule:

April 23rd: Katie’s Clean Book Collection / Heidi Reads

April 24th - LDS and Lovin’ It / The Bibliophile Files

April 25th - LDS Writer Mom / My Book a Day / Singing Librarian Books / Getting Your Read On

April 26th - Peggy Urry / Min Reads and Reviews (spotlight)

April 27th - Among the Reads / Joy in the Moments / Literary Time Out / Wishful Endings

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Tripwire by Traci Hunter Abramson + $25 and Book Giveaway!

 

Jane Napierski is back at work at the job she loves—being a personal assistant to her friend Sienna Blake, a rising star actress. The duo is on location in Virginia Beach to film Sienna’s new TV series, along with costar Reed Forrester—the man with whom the world thinks Sienna is in love. Wrong.

Sienna’s heart actually belongs to her fiancé, Craig, a Navy Seal with the Saint Squad. Craig must fly under the radar if he is to keep Sienna safe from his world of terrorists and toxic bombs. And Reed has no problem pretending to date his old friend Sienna simply because it means he can spend time learning more about Jane. Making a TV series is grueling work but not nearly as difficult as the treacherous adventure that is about to begin with a simple photo taken in the wrong place at the wrong time—an image worth killing for.

When Craig returns to the United States to spend time with Sienna, he’s not expecting to spend that time protecting her and Jane. Frightening incidents targeting the two women rapidly escalate, and as Craig and his Saint Squad investigate a tangled conspiracy, they find themselves tracking, here at home, the terrorists they have searched for across the globe. But can they shut the terrorists down in time to save Jane, Reed, and Sienna?

 * Amazon * Goodreads * Deseret Book *

Yay! for another book with the Saint Squad!  I love this military based series that gives me light suspense and a bit of romance as well.  What I really love about this series is that it's a group of friends and they are in every book, sometimes in the spotlight, sometimes in the background but always there.  It gives the series such a feeling of continuity and family.  I love it.

This book actually has two characters from the last book, Craig and Sienna, prominently in this book as well.  Reed is a newcomer on the scene and Jane steps into the spotlight with him.  I enjoyed the setting and I'm longing for a beach house just like Sienna's or Reed's- but without the bombs and stress.  

This was an enjoyable read from beginning to end.  I always love Traci Abramson's books.

Content:  some violence, kissing.  LDS fiction so there are some mentions of religious things- going to church and praying. 

 

Schedule:

*April 23^rd: https://www.rockinbookreviews.com/, http://www.wishfulendings.com/, https://brightlystreet.com/category/book-reviews/

*April 24^th: http://gettingyourreadonaimeebrown.blogspot.com/, http://empowermoms.net/

*April 25^th: http://lisaisabookworm.blogspot.com/, https://joyinthemoments.wordpress.com/, http://ldswritermom.blogspot.com/

*April 26^th: https://ldsandlovinit.blogspot.com/, http://katiescleanbookcollection.blogspot.com/, http://mybookaday.com/, http://literarytimeout.blogspot.com/

*April 27^th: http://bonnieharris.blogspot.com/, http://whynotbecauseisaidso.blogspot.com/, http://minreadsandreviews.blogspot.com/, http://booksaresanity.blogspot.com/, http://sweetlymadejustforyou.com/

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My Dearest Enemy by Jennifer Moore + $25 and Book Giveaway!

Struggling alone on the family farm, Abigail Tidwell knows exactly who to blame for her hardships: the Americans. If it weren’t for their part in the war, her father and brothers would be home rather than fighting abroad. But no amount of antipathy could have prepared her for the shocking sight of a wounded American soldier on her property, a man in dire need of her help. Grudgingly, Abigail tends to the soldier’s injuries and anticipates the satisfaction of turning him over to the authorities once he is healed. But fate has other plans. Captain Emmett Prescott remembers little of the ambush on his men by a group of Shawnee Indians and even less about how he arrived in the unfamiliar barn.

After being nursed back to health by beautiful, if reluctant, Abigail, Emmett would do anything to save the men he left behind—including forcibly enlisting Abigail’s help. Soon, Abigail finds herself caught between two countries at war. And as her attraction for Emmett grows, her conflicted heart engages in its own silent battle. But when she is accused of treason for her actions, her survival rests in the hands of the very man she once considered her enemy.

 * Amazon * Goodreads * Deseret Book *

I really don't know too much about the War of 1812.  I can't remember the school history lesson of so long ago but after reading this book, I have the urge to read more about it.  Jennifer Moore has written a book that painted vivid images in my mind and clearly she has done her history homework because everything felt so sturdy and real.  I love when historical fiction feels rich and makes me want to know more about whatever I am reading.  

This book was more plot driven than character driven, which left me wanting more of an emotional connection but I did enjoy the story.  I loved Emmett and his group of trusted allies who were a vital and ongoing part of the story.  They helped give the book a feeling of trust and family- nobody is left behind.

 Content:  violence associated with war, some kissing

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

 

Schedule:

*April 16^th: http://minreadsandreviews.blogspot.com/, https://joyinthemoments.wordpress.com/, http://mybookaday.com/, http://www.blogginboutbooks.com/

*April 17^th: http://heidi-reads.blogspot.com/, https://www.rockinbookreviews.com/, http://www.wishfulendings.com/

*April 18^th: http://www.kindleandme.com/, http://bonnieharris.blogspot.com/, http://ldswritermom.blogspot.com/

*April 19^th: https://www.singinglibrarianbooks.com/, https://ldsandlovinit.blogspot.com/, http://katiescleanbookcollection.blogspot.com/, http://literarytimeout.blogspot.com/

*April 20^th: https://brightlystreet.com/, http://gettingyourreadonaimeebrown.blogspot.com/, http://www.iamareader.com/, http://lisaisabookworm.blogspot.com/, http://whynotbecauseisaidso.blogspot.com/, http://booksaresanity.blogspot.com/, http://sweetlymadejustforyou.com/blog/

 

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The Orient Express (Timeless Victorian Collection) by Elizabeth Johns, Annette Lyon, Nancy Campbell Allen

 

TO BREAK A BETROTHAL by Elizabeth Johns:
Recently orphaned heiress Kate Worthington must travel to England from her home in India to break an outdated betrothal contract. Surely the lure of money will tempt Lord Darlington to release her! A gentleman befriends her whilst she is aboard the luxurious Orient Express, and the attraction she feels firms her resolve to break the betrothal. What she does not count on is Lord Darlington’s hidden depths. She has so much to lose, least of which is her heart.

DETECTIVE GRACE MEETS HER MATCH by Annette Lyon:
Even private investigator Grace Thomas needs a vacation, yet she can’t exactly turn off her detective skills at a whim. Boarding the Orient Express might be a vacation for some, but Grace finds that her senses are on high alert. She prides herself in being one step ahead of any flirtatious gentlemen, and fellow passenger Marshall Bailey is no exception. When Grace discovers that Marshall is traveling under another name, she learns that her first impressions aren’t always correct, and that she’s mistakenly allowed him to play havoc on her heart. Marshall will just have to convince Grace to give him a second chance.

MARRIED ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS by Nancy Campbell Allen:
Detective Vincent Brady must recover a priceless statue before it falls into the wrong hands. The only problem is that the American woman who’s carrying it for her brother has no idea the value. Vincent catches up with Emily Grant, but convincing her that he’s not out to harm her or her brother is harder than Vincent expected. Finally, Emily agrees to travel with Vincent on the Orient Express, and they plot how to rescue her brother while keeping themselves out of harm’s way. Vincent soon discovers that out of all the hardships he’s overcome in his lifetime to rise to his current detective status, convincing Emily to take a chance on him even harder.

 * Amazon * Goodreads * 

I love when a new book comes out in any of the Timeless Collections.  This one is set on the Orient Express and I loved the setting of a train and how each book felt the same in that way but different in the actual stories and writing styles.  I also love the variety of authors contributing to these books.  Each book has different authors making each one feel fresh and new.  

Overall I enjoyed these books!  The first book had such a sweet romantic progression.  I loved that as a reader, I knew things the characters didn't because watching them figure things out was so satisfying.  4 stars

The middle book got a little wordy for me, too much time in the characters heads, not enough dialogue and movement in the story.  I skimmed a bit and still understood everything so that one wasn't my favorite, but it was still good.  I loved that that Marshall was an author!  3 stars

The last book had some light intrigue, mystery and action which made the forward progression constant and I loved that.  It had me invested from the very beginning. 4 stars

Content:  clean, some mild peril and violence in the last book

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

 

Elodie of the Sea (Eldentimber #5) by Shari L. Tapscott

He's a king who gave up on love. She's a girl with no memory.

An entire ocean is keeping them apart. 
Eight years have passed since the marriage tournament that decided the fate of Princess Pippa of Lauramore and strengthened alliances between the kingdoms of Elden. The competitors have moved on with their lives. Some have found adventure; some have found love.

Prince Bran of Triblue, however, has put his life on hold, preparing for his father's crown.

Two days before Bran's winter coronation, just when the prince cannot afford distractions, a girl washes onto the Triblue shore. She has no memory of her past life, no clue who she is or where she belongs—nothing but a ring on her finger and a peculiar marking on her cheek.

And the newly crowned king has more than a mysterious girl to worry about. The sea has become unpredictable. Storms claim ships in the dead of night, and sailors return with horrifying stories of monsters from the deep. It soon becomes clear the girl and the bizarre events are connected.

The girl came from the sea... and the sea wants her back.

But Bran isn't willing to give her or his kingdom up without a fight, even if it means he must request help from every corner of Elden.

* Amazon * Goodreads *

 

I was so, so happy to read this story for a couple reasons.  One, I love this series.  It's one of my favorite.  Two, I have been waiting for Bran (who I love) to get his happy ever after.  He's been around since book one and it's about time.  

 

As with all the books in this series, this book has adventure, light romance and a touch of mystery.   All characters from the previous books made an appearance in this book and it was so fun- like a family reunion!  Each book can stand alone and don't necessarily have to be read in order, but you will probably enjoy this series more if you do. 

 

Elodie is from the sea.  She has some mermaid like qualities with some creative twists.  My imagination was sparked, filling my mind with visions of far off lands and magical creatures.  The story kept a good pace and I was completely invested from beginning to end.

 

I love this series.  It's great for YA and adults alike.  It's clean (no swearing or sexual situations) which I also love.

 

Content:  some violence, mild peril

 

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

 

Stolen Enchantress (Forbidden Forest #1) by Amber Argyle

Any girl who goes into the Forbidden Forest never comes out again. Except the one who did.

Larkin should have been watching her little sister, should have paid more attention to the trees looming over her family’s fields. Now Sela is gone. Knowing full well the danger of the forest and its beast, Larkin goes after her anyway. With her sister clutched in her arms, she manages to escape, but not before discovering the truth lurking beneath the wicked boughs.

She may have evaded the beast once, but with the full force of his magic now fixated on her, she isn’t sure how much longer she can resist.

 * Goodreads * Amazon * 

This book was exactly what I needed to read even though I didn't know it.  When Amber Argyle says she has a new book coming out, I'm the girl in the front of the line with my hand raised, jumping up and down saying, "pick me, pick me!"  I think what draws me to her books is the way she creates original and fascinating places and people that just pull me right in.  Her books are outside my normal, go to genre but I really love that.  Fantasy isn't usually my favorite, but when it comes to Amber Argyle, it is.  It gives me a well needed breath of fresh air. 

I was intrigued by this book from the very first chapters.  It perked up my imagination and my curiosity. I just had to know what was going to happen.  That feeling continued throughout the whole book.  I love when a book can engage me so entirely.  And now, even days later as I write this, I am still thinking about this book.  I want more.  I want the next book now!  

This book has it all- scary creatures, strong characters, magical powers, vivid and varying places and the ever needed theme of good versus evil.  There is love and betrayal, light and darkness.  It was an incredibly fun adventure and I loved every single minute of it.

Content:  some violence, peril, death.  

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

My Sister's Intended (Serendipity #1) by Rachael Anderson + $25 Giveaway

 

For as long as Prudence can remember, it has been understood that her sister will one day wed the eldest son of their nearest neighbor. Such an alliance will benefit both families and bring a great deal of joy to all parents involved. Unfortunately, Prudence has never been able to feel as joyful. She believes her sister is mad to consider marrying a man she hardly knows, even if he will one day make her a countess. Titles and wealth shouldn't factor into matters of the heart, and as an aspiring romance novelist, Prudence cannot fathom how anyone could even think of settling for less than love. She certainly wouldn’t, and she doesn't want her sister to either. Unable to stand by and do nothing, Prudence sets out to help the awkward couple discover the best in each other with the hope that they will eventually find love. What she neglected to foresee, however, was the possibility that she might fall in love with Lord Knave herself.  

 

 Ooh, this book!  It was so perfectly sweet from beginning to end.  I am a fan of Rachael Anderson and I love (lovey, love, love) her books.  Her characters are charming and full of life and personality.  I can so easily picture them- it's like I am right there with them.

I fell in love with Prudence- how could I not?  An avid reader and writer, full of imagination and spunk with an air of innocence about her, Prudence was fantastic.  She was also kind.  I loved her for that.

And Brand?  I absolutely adored him. (I wish I could make the word "adored" all bright and shiny with streams of light and sparkles coming from it!)

This gentle and sweet love story will steal your heart.  I'm so excited about this new series and I will be anxiously waiting for the next book.

Excerpt

When Prudence lifted her eyes to his again, they sparkled with a challenge. “I was going to save this question until later so as not to shock you from the get-go, but I really do need to know . . . What does it feel like to kiss a woman?”

A large lump formed in Brand’s throat, and his mouth went dry. What the deuce? She had promised not to ask questions that would make him uncomfortable, but already he wanted to flee like a frightened kitten. How could he possibly explain how it felt to kiss a woman?

Brand searched his mind for a way to avoid answering until he heard a snicker escape her lips. She was laughing at him. Him! Hildebrand Ethan Cannon, Viscount Knave—a man at least eight years her senior and a great deal higher in social standing.

Unbelievable.

“You are teasing me,” he said, hoping it was true. If she’d posed the question to make him squirm—and perhaps make him more inclined to answer her other questions—then she wouldn’t be expecting an answer.

She shook her head, still smiling. “I’m afraid not, my lord, although I did find the look of terror on your face vastly amusing.”

“I’m glad I could entertain you.”

“I hope you will be equally glad to instruct me on a few things as well. The first scene in my book will include a kiss, and I have no idea how to describe the experience. Do a woman’s lips feel warm or soft or even moist? Would your pulse quicken? Aside from touch, what other senses are engaged? How would it make you feel and what would you notice when you held a woman in your arms?”

If she thought he’d appeared terror-stricken before, there would be no word for how he looked now. Did she earnestly expect him to answer such questions? Surely even she knew how inappropriate it would be to discuss such things, her being an innocent.

“I cannot say,” he finally muttered.

Her brow puckered in confusion. “Have you never kissed a woman, my lord?”

Brand was sorely tempted to lie and say he had not, but he couldn’t bring himself to do so. Any man of six-and-twenty who had never experienced a kiss would be laughed out of his manhood. Women were expected to remain innocent until married. Men were not.

“Yes, I have kissed a woman,” he finally admitted, “but I have no intention of discussing any of the details with you.”

“Why not?” she asked, her large brown eyes blinking at him curiously. “Would you rather I invent the information?”

“Yes.”

She obviously didn’t appreciate his retort because she scowled. “Can you not tell me at least a little?”

“No.”

“Why?”

“Because a kiss could never be described with any sort of accuracy, at least not by me. It involves too many feelings and sensations and complexities of thought. If you wish to know what a kiss feels like, you’ll have to experience it for yourself.”

Too late, Brand realized his mistake. Her expression became contemplative, as though she was actually considering doing just that. Good gads, had he really just encouraged an innocent young woman to go hunting for a kiss? Who would she ask? A groom? Stablehand? The next peddler that came to town?

“I think you are right,” she said at last. “I really must experience a kiss for myself if I am to describe it with any sort of accuracy.” She blinked up at him with that innocent expression again. “Will you kiss me Lord Knave? No, how silly of me. You are to marry my sister, so that would never do.” She pursed her lips for a moment before musing, “Perhaps one of the footmen would be kind enough to show me how it’s done.”

Kind enough? Brand could think of a great many reasons a footman would comply with such a request, and kindness did not factor into any of them. Brand would kiss her himself before he allowed a footman near her.

He rubbed the bridge of his nose, feeling a headache coming on. “Perhaps I can try to explain what it feels like after all.” Better that than having her chase after a footman.

“But you only just said you couldn’t do it justice,” she pointed out. “I realize I sound dreadfully forward, but I really must know, and experience is the best teacher, is it not?”

“No, it isn’t,” he lied. “And you are not going to kiss a footman.”

“Then who? Felix or Lionel, perhaps? I’m fairly certain I can convince one of them to do it, if given the opportunity. The question is how to go about it?”

It was plain to see by the firm set of her jaw that she would not rest until she had experienced a kiss of her own. She didn’t seem to care who did the deed, only that the man did a thorough job of it. A quick peck on the lips wouldn’t satisfy her curiosities.

“Perhaps I could send a note to Felix and ask him to call on me,” she continued to muse. “We could take a stroll through the maze in the gardens. There is a hidden alcove on the south side, which could be quite perfect. We would have to evade Ruth, obviously, but—”

“Devil take it,” Brand growled as he pulled her to him. Her quick intake of breath was the only sound she made before his mouth covered hers.

   

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.  

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Blog Tour - March 28th to April 12th

 

 

Blog Tour Giveaway $25 Amazon Gift Code or $25 in Paypal Cash Ends 4/22/18 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

On Tour with Bad Boy Rancher by Karen Rock + $50 and Book Giveaway!

(Rocky Mountain Cowboys #3)

by Karen Rock

Contemporary Romance

Paperback & ebook, 368 pages

April 1st 2018 by Harlequin Heartwarming

He’s not the only one who needs saving…

But maybe they can save each other?

Dark, brooding, dangerous…and possibly suicidal. Renegade rancher Justin Cade was exactly the kind of man former army chaplain Brielle Thompson needed to avoid after escaping the horrors of Afghanistan with an honorable discharge—and PTSD. The whole point of moving to the remote Rocky Mountains of Colorado was to leave the darkness behind, not fall back into it. But falling she is…

Goodreads│Amazon│B&N│iBooks│Kobo│Harlequin

This book is like the perfect storm.  It has all the elements coming together to make it so enticing to me.  First you have Karen Rock, an author I have been following for years and one of my favorite in the Harlequin Heartwarming line.  Then you have a new addition to a fantastic series based on a tight knit family and hello?  They are cowboys.  See what I mean?  The perfect storm is brewing . . .

Justin is the dark and dangerous one of the family.  Everyone is trying so hard to love him but he just won't let anyone penetrate his wall of defense.  He is angry.  After losing his twin brother, he lost a part of himself and he blames himself although nobody knows why.

I loved that both these main characters were strong yet not.  They both had broken bits that needed fixing and healing yet they were still fighting the good fight.  The attraction was zingy and instant and it just kept building.  The kissing was yummy.  

This is such a great series.  I'm loving it.  Each book can stand alone but I would highly recommend reading them in order because you will be happier and more satisfied if you do.

Content:  mention of substance abuse, suicide attempt, kissing, mild innuendo, death

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

Other Books in the Series

Christmas at Cade Ranch

(Rocky Mountain Cowboys #1)

by Karen Rock

Contemporary Romance

Paperback & ebook, 384 pages
November 7th 2017 by Harlequin Heartwarming

The Christmas they never had.

James Cade has one priority: keep the family ranch running smoothly in the wake of his younger brother's death. With Jesse's ex, Sofia Gallardo, and her young son, Javi, stranded at Cade Ranch over Christmas, this task just got a lot harder. The longer Sofia and Javi stay, the harder it is to imagine the ranch without them. James couldn't save his brother from his inner demons, but he can give his nephew a secure future. Maybe more—if he can figure out how to trust Sofia, and stop feeling like he's betraying Jesse. Because trying to stop thinking about beautiful, determined Sofia is impossible.

Goodreads│Amazon│B&N│iBooks│Kobo│Harlequin

Falling for a Cowboy

(Rocky Mountain Cowboys #2)
by Karen Rock
Contemporary Romance

Paperback & ebook, 368 pages
January 1st 2018 by Harlequin Heartwarming

Doesn’t he get that she’s blind?

Barrel racer Amberley James wants to join the premier rodeo circuit more than anything, but she faces the ultimate hurdle when she loses her eyesight to a rare genetic condition. All she’d ever wanted seems out of reach. Giving up is the only option…until her best friend and local hero Jared Cade steps in. The last thing she wants is Jared’s help. But his persistence at encouraging her to get back in the saddle is ridiculously annoying. And undeniably inspiring…

Goodreads│Amazon│B&N│iBooks│Kobo│Harlequin

About the Author

Award-winning author Karen Rock is both sweet and spicy—at least when it comes to her writing! The author of both YA and adult contemporary books writes sexy suspense novels and small-town romances for Harlequin and Kensington publishing. A strong believer in Happily-Ever-After, Karen loves creating unforgettable stories that leave her readers with a smile. When she’s not writing, Karen is an avid reader who also loves cooking her grandmother’s Italian recipes, baking and having the Adirondack Park wilderness as her backyard, where she lives with her husband, daughter, dog and cat who keep her life interesting and complete. Learn more about her at http://www.karenrock.com or follow her on twitter at http://www.twitter.com/karenrock5.

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On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Tour Schedule

April 2nd:
Launch
Katie's Clean Book Collection
The Power of Words
I Am A Reader
Reading Is My SuperPower
April 3rd:
Hearts & Scribbles
Spice of Life
Two Points of Interest
Deal Sharing Aunt
April 4th:
Faithfully Bookish
Rockin' Book Reviews
Busy Bumble Bee Book Reviews
Remembrancy
April 5th:
Janice's Book Reviews
E-Romance News
Harlie's Books
Nicole's Book Musings
April 6th:
Mello & June, It's a Book Thang!
Getting Your Read On
underneath the covers
Between the Pages with Katrina
April 7th: Grand Finale

Tour Giveaway

- 1 winner will receive print copies of CHRISTMAS AT CADE RANCH and FALLING FOR A COWBOY by Karen Rock, WISHES AT FIRST LIGHT by Joanne Rock, A SKY FULL OF STARS by Samantha Chase, WHAT IT TAKES by Shanon Stacey, and FAMILY TREE by Susan Wiggs (US only)
- 1 winner will receive a $50 Amazon Gift Card (open internationally)

- Ends April 11th

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