Showing posts sorted by relevance for query St Martin Press. Sort by date Show all posts
Showing posts sorted by relevance for query St Martin Press. Sort by date Show all posts

Monday, October 6, 2014

Feasted On: A Little Christmas Jingle by Michele Dunaway

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 1541 | Expected Release Date: October 7, 2014 | Publisher: St. Martin's Press : Paperbacks | Obtained: NetGalley

"A Little Christmas Jingle" by Michele Dunaway

Author's Book Description : Women, men, stray dogs—everyone's looking for love this holiday season. Sometimes all it takes is a LITTLE CHRISTMAS JINGLE to get into the spirit. . .

Kat Saunders needs a Christmas miracle. She’s expanded her vet practice to include a no-kill shelter, and she forgot to get the required permits. Now that a few neighbors have complained and she’s been summoned to court, she could lose everything she has worked for. When a gorgeous detective comes to her with an abused pit-bull, she does everything she can to save the puppy and soon realizes that brooding Jack Donovan might just be the answer to her legal woes.

Jack, or Mr. December to fans of the Sexy Public Servants Charity Calendar, hates Christmas. As head of St. Louis’s first Animal Cruelty Task Force, Jack has seen the worst in people, especially around the holidays. But one sexy vet is getting under his skin with her tireless holiday cheer, intent on proving to him that there is Christmas magic in the air...

My Book Review : 4.5 out of 5 stars! Jack meets Katherine (Kat) at a ball they both attend, while there they share a mistletoe kiss and loose each other in the middle of everything going on. A while later they meet up again after Jack bring an terribly abused puppy (Jingle) to Kat's clinic for help, from there a relationship begins that will shake up their lives for the better.

Kat and Jack's romance is one that would put a good Hallmark Christmas movie a run for its money. It was sweet, fun, with just enough drama to keep the reader enraptured! I especially loved how after their "big crisis" Jack won Kat back, as it was very romantic! Plus, I liked all the animals that were in this novel since it gave it more personality! Poor Jingle, though, I wish I could cuddle that little guy. Even though I know Jingle isn't real, his story is a common one (sad to say) and I liked how Ms. Dunaway handles the subject.

I recommend this novel to those who like contemporary holiday romances!!

Purchase This Book Here :

Author's Novel Extras : A Little Christmas Jingle - Overview

Book Teaser(s) :
"Oh, please. You mean to tell me you weren't flattered by all those women vying for attention at the ball?"
"You mean my stalkers?"
"Fan club?"
"Stalkers. Or overzealous attention seekers? Calendar groupies? Those better terms?" ~ within Chapter 3

For more information on this book and/or any other books by Michele, then please check out her website.

Saturday, December 28, 2013

Made the Grade: The Reckless Brides Series, Book 3.5

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 1147 KB | Expected Release Date: October 8, 2013 | Publisher: St. Martin's Press | Obtained: NetGalley

"The Scandal Before Christmas" [The Reckless Brides Series, Book 3.5] by Elizabeth Essex

Author's Book Description : Lieutenant Ian Worth needs a wife by Christmas, and he can’t afford to be choosy. He has to find her, woo her, and wed her before he goes back to sea—all within a matter of days. Anne Lesley is a shy spinster with no prospects, and nothing and no one to recommend her but her own self. She accepts the lieutenant’s hasty offer only for the comfort and security it will bring. But when a midwinter storm snows her and Ian in, they both find they got much more than they bargained for—laughter, light, and a Christmas filled with honest to goodness true love...

My Book Review : 3 out of 5 stars, this is a sweet historical romance that keeps entertained while allowing you to enjoy catching up with favorite past characters.

Ian and Anne's story is charming in the way that they become friends, to confidants, to lovers. Plus it helped that they have similar interests.

All in all, I recommend it to anyone who is a fan of the series and to those who enjoy historical (slightly erotic) romances!

Purchase This Book and/or The Other Books From It's Series Here :

My Previous Review(s) for this Series : Book 1

My Previous Mention(s) of this Author's Books/Characters : Teaser Tuesdays: Almost a Scandal | Feasted On: Eloisa's Fairy Tales Series, Book 4 | The Books I'm Thankful For (so far) in 2012 | Best Book Couples -- Happy Valentine's Day 2013

Author's Novel Extras : The Scandal Before Christmas - Overview & Excerpt | Pinterest: The Scandal Before Christmas

Author's Series Extras : Almost A Scandal - Overview & Excerpt | A Breath of Scandal - Overview & Excerpt | Scandal in the Night - Overview & Excerpt | After the Scandal - Overview & Excerpt | Pinterest: Almost a Scandal | Pinterest: A Breath of Scandal | Pinterest: Scandal in the Night | Pinterest: After the Scandal

Book Teaser(s) :
"Well, you have your marching orders, Miss Lesley," he said for her ears alone as he ushered her out the door of the dining room. "You are hereby required to contribute more than two words as you inspect the premises. Or perhaps you might defer them until some later time. Perhaps in the morning, on another walk, when we march resolutely toward the village of St. Helens."
His teasing had goaded her into looking at him then, giving him a glimpse of heat firing in the depths of her eye. "As you wish, lieutenant."
The words were quiet, but hot.
"Four already. But I shan't let you off that lightly. And you did promise not to call me lieutenant."
"I never did."
She was so resolutely battened down, he could feel his own sail shaking loose to run before the wind. "Ian," he insisted, just as determined as she. But he was determined to find out what made the quiet, serious Miss Lesley tick. So far, her pleasure was limited to walking.
"Sir---"
"Ian. Give it a try." He gave her his best, most winning smile---the one that made barmaids forget to charge him for his beer, and offer up other delights instead.
And it was working. She was having trouble keeping her determined look in order---she had to keep pursing her lips. "I---"
"Almost. Almost. But you didn't say 'sir,' so I shan't object any more this evening. This way." ~ within Chapter 5
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Elizabeth, then please check out her website.

Thursday, July 26, 2012

Idolizing In: The Reckless Brides Series, Book 1

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Paperback - Pages: 353; Kindle Edition - File Size: 638 KB | Expected Release Date: July 31, 2012 | Publisher: St. Martin's Press | Obtained: NetGalley

"Almost a Scandal" [The Reckless Brides Series, Book 1] by Elizabeth Essex

My Book Summary : Sarah (Sally) has never been what you would call a typical girl since she loves the sea. Being from an old navy family---with her father and two of her older brother's already Royal Navy captains, and her other two older brothers on their way to being captains themselves---you could say it's in her blood. Therefore, when her younger brother, Richard, decides to run away from his duty of becoming a midshipman Sally chooses to don his clothes and pose as him instead. This way she can keep her family's honor in tacked and be able to experience a freedom, she would never be able to have as herself, a girl.

However, in doing so she will need to be able to live and correctly/purposefully lie to the Captain of her ship and about two hundred and sixty-odd men. Will her charade work? Will she experience and enjoy the freedom she earns and has never had before?

In addition, while Sally's at it will she be able to keep her heart in check when it comes to First Lieutenant Colyear a family friend and the only man who knows of her secret on the ship...

My Book Review : 5 out of 5 stars, this fun, courageous, and delightful novel will take you on an intriguing ride through the life of a British sailor in the 1800s. I loved how this novel evolves--from Sally boarding the ship trying to hide her identity, to her being in the thick of the crew, getting into fights about shipmates treatment, to the growing love affair between Sally and Col all the while being right in the middle of a war. I could not get enough of this novel! I especially enjoy how Sally wasn't a wuss when it came to her duty and the action on deck or that she wasn't impervious to any causalities of her own, no matter how small. Definitely, a fast-paced and action-packed novel keeps you on your toes.

Now I cannot wait until book 2 of this series, "A Breath of Scandal" with the hero being William Jellicoe, comes out in December 2012!! I also hope that it'll either have Sally & Col play secondary parts or at least update you of them in that novel. =0)

I HIGHLY recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys historical romance!!! I hope you'll enjoy it as much (if not more but that's unlikely) as I do! *hahaa*

Book Teaser(s) :
Teaser #1 ~ within Chapter 1
"Mr. Kent, you are an abominable liar."
The desperation of wanting something so uncertain was a physical thing, a pain that added to the cat's-paw of misery coiled deep in her gut. She could only answer with the truth.
"Thank you, sir. For I have no wish to be a good one. I only wanted to make sure we're to sail immediately."
"Outrunning creditors, are you, Mr. Kent? Or some young lady's family?"
Sally would have laughed if she hadn't suddenly felt so near tears. She was definitely outrunning some lady's family---her own. Be he must be teasing her---the cool green of his eyes had warmed to a luminous jade. "No, sir," she assured him as firmly as she could. "Nothing of the kind." ~ within Chapter 4
There wasn't much vanity in that, but it bothered him, for not the first time, to think of her living so intimately with other men. Most women only ever saw their own husbands shave themselves, if even that. In the cockpit, and even in the gunroom, she had been in the company of men routinely stripped to their waists. Perhaps even naked in front of her. Every day for weeks.
And what about her?
His curiosity got the best of him. ~ within Chapter 15
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Elizabeth, then please check out her website.

Tuesday, December 31, 2019

Made the Grade: It Must Be Christmas: Three Holiday Stories by Jennifer Crusie, Donna Alward, & Mandy Baxter | #BookReview @JennyCrusie @DonnaAlward @MandyJBaxter

- This was an ARC Read -
Available Formats through Amazon: Kindle Edition & Paperback
File Size: 903 KB | Mass Market Paperback Print Length: 384 Pages
Publication Date: October 4, 2016 | Language: English
Publisher: St. Martin's Press : Paperbacks
ASIN: B01CXON5TS | ISBN-10: 1250106370 | ISBN-13: 978-1250106377
Main Genre(s): Holiday Romance, Contemporary Romance, Romance Anthologies
Format Jess Read This Novel In: eBook - MOBI File
Jess Obtained This Book Through: NetGalley


"It Must Be Christmas: Three Holiday Stories" by Jennifer Crusie, Donna Alward, & Mandy Baxter

Author's Book Description : Previously published stories from New York Times bestselling author Jennifer Crusie, Mandy Baxter, and Donna Alward, these hot romantic stories share the spirit of love this season. It’s the most wonderful time of the year, when love is in the cold and frosty air―and desire reaches the boiling point...

Hot Toy
From New York Times bestselling author Jennifer Crusie comes a hilarious, sexy story about a determined shopper who grabs the last action figure off the shelf, only to find herself plunged into the arms of a sexy secret agent. Mayhem under the mistletoe ensues. Business as usual this Christmas season...right?

Christmas with the Billionaire Rancher
Nate wants to stay away from all the women who want his money in Mandy Baxter’s story set deep in the heart of Texas. But when gorgeous do-gooder Chloe Benson comes knocking at his door―in search of funds for her charity―Nate can’t ignore the passion he feels for her. Maybe love is priceless after all?

Christmas at Seashell Cottage
’Tis the season in Jewell Cove when local doctor Charlie Yang finds her quiet, steady life disrupted by both an abandoned baby in the nativity manger and ex-SEAL Dave Ricker. Are these turn of events too good to be true? Or is Christmas working its magic―for real?

My Book Review : For this full book I give it 3.25 out of 5 stars! Though I couldn't get into all of the novels that were included in this anthology, what I did read I enjoyed! All three are sweet contemporary small town romances that I recommend to those who are interested in that style of book genres.

Wednesday, June 24, 2015

Idolizing In: Sisters of the Craft Series, Book 1

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Paperback - Pages: 352; Kindle Edition - File Size: 1175 KB | Expected Release Date: June 2, 2015 | Publisher: St. Martin's Press : Paperbacks | Obtained: NetGalley

"In The Air Tonight" [Sisters of the Craft Series, Book 1] by Lori Handeland (aka Lori Austin)

Author's Book Description : Four centuries ago, in a small Scottish village, three baby girls escaped the wrath of a witch hunter. Today, one young woman will learn about her secret history, her heart's destiny, and the sisters she never knew she had…

With her blue-black hair and dark eyes, Rachel Larsen has never fit in with the Scandinavian community of New Bergin, Wisconsin. Being adopted is part of the reason she feels like an outsider, but what really sets Rachel apart is her ability to see dead people. Everywhere. She's learned to keep her visions to herself…until she stumbles onto the ghost of a murder victim who needs Rachel's help. Enter Bobby Doucet, a distractingly handsome homicide detective who has been tracking a killer all the way from New Orleans. Could this be the break in his case he's been looking for all along? Meanwhile, the deeper Rachel gets involved with the case—and with Bobby—the closer she comes to unlocking the mystery of her own origins. What she discovers about herself could destroy everything she knows…and everyone she loves. Is finding the truth worth the risk?

My Book Review : 5 out of 5 stars! A little over four hundred years ago, while being burned at the stake two witches (a husband and wife) do one final spell that sends their triplet baby daughters into time in hopes of finding a place when witchcraft won’t be a crime and they’ll be “safe.” The spell works ….

Throughout her life, Raye (Rachel) has been able to see and speak to ghosts. However, when she was five year old, and overheard her adopted father talk about how he didn’t like it and wanted to “send her back,” she learned that talking to ghosts wasn’t normal and did everything in her power to stop. Now at the age of twenty-seven she might still hide her “gift” but knows that it won’t go away.

One-day Raye’s “normal” life suddenly changes when a unique murder happens downtown and homicide detective Bobby (Robert) rushes into her life. In some ways things go from bad to worse while in others things get better but as sparks start to fly between Bobby and Raye other forces try to keep them apart, can they work things out between each other or will their pasts mess up what they want for their futures?

This unexpected paranormal thriller hooked me with Raye’s sarcastic personality, its fun witty plot, its suspenseful ways, and the growing relationship that Bobby & Raye share. Spectacular! This was a wonderful introduction to Ms. Handeland’s series as well as an intriguing novel all on its own! Raye is a captivating heroine while Bobby’s boundless protectiveness and slight insecurities make him one hero I wish I could know. Together these two create a superb pairing that I could not stop but want to read of more! I hope that as this series progresses with getting to know Raye’s other sisters we still get updates on the previous ones, because I just wanted to keep reading about these two. In addition, the plot about the Venatores Mali and how the sisters will go about fighting against them really fascinated me, so it’ll be interesting to see where everything will go next.

I HIGHLY recommend this novel to those looking for a thrilling paranormal romance!

-- On a side note --
I really liked the interlacing covers!

Purchase This Book and/or The Other Books From It's Series Here : IndieBound (Paperback) : In the Air Tonight (Book 1) | IndieBound (Paperback) : Heat of the Moment (Book 2) | IndieBound (Paperback) : Smoke on the Water (Book 3) | Kobo (e-Book) : In the Air Tonight (Book 1) | Kobo (e-Book) : Heat of the Moment (Book 2) | Kobo (e-Book) : Smoke on the Water (Book 3) | Alibris (Paperback) : In the Air Tonight (Book 1)


Author's Series Extras : SISTERS OF THE CRAFT Series - Overview & Excerpts


Book Teaser(s) :
She lifted dark brows toward hair as black as his own. The contrast of that ebony hair and milky skin made him think of Snow White. Too bad he wasn't any kind of prince.
Foolish thoughts. What was wrong with him? ~ within Chapter 2

IN THE AIR TONIGHT by Lori Handeland -- Read my review here:...
Posted by From Me to You - Video, Photography, & Book Reviews on Wednesday, June 24, 2015

IN THE AIR TONIGHT by Lori Handeland -- Read my review here:...
Posted by From Me to You - Video, Photography, & Book Reviews on Wednesday, June 24, 2015
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Lori, then please check out her website.

Saturday, June 25, 2011

Made the Grade: House of Night Series, Book 8

Format: Hardcover | Pages: 290 | Release Date: January 2011 | Publisher: St. Martin's Press

"Awakened" [House of Night Series, Book 8] by P. C. Cast & Kristin Cast

My Book Summary : This book in the series was a mix of multiple stories that all have a common link to each other, told by 9 different points-of-view.

Zoey is dealing with: Her loss of Heath. Her love and new relationship with Stark. Her feelings about being "whole" again, and where she wants to go and do from here.

Stark is dealing with: Not being completely himself after coming back from the Otherworld. Enjoying his new relationship with Zoey. Learning what being a Guardian is all about.

Neferet is dealing with: Being a bitch as usual. Nyx messes up some of her plans, but Darkness has other plans to help her out.

Rephaim is dealing with: He's dealing with his feelings for Stevie Rae, while dealing with how he can/could possibly stay loyal to Kalona (his father).

Stevie Rae is dealing with: Her love for Rephaim and how she's been keeping him a secret from her friends. Everything that involves being the High Priestess of the Tulsa House of Night while Zoey is gone.

Kalona is dealing with: Neferet's "control" over him and how he could get out of it.

My Book Review : 3.5 out of 5 stars. Basically I went from excited at the beginning to disappointed for the middle and end (even though there were a few good parts in the middle). I really wanted to read this novel when I finished "Burned," but then I got pregnant and not interested in this series for a while, well now that I have read it and just finished reading it I can say I was very disappointed. =0( I mean I liked the relationship that has formed between Zoey and Stark, yet I do NOT like Stark's new development. I really didn't like that a character I really liked dies. I DID like what happens between Stevie Rae and Rephaim.

However, with all I DIDN'T like about this book (part in the series) I know for a fact that I'll be reading the next book in this series, "Destined." Especially with the odd turn of events at the very end, basically throwing one of my fave characters and giving "them" a whole new reality. =0( All I can say is .... I'm scared to know what will happen next.

And I hope that this will wrap up soon since if it gets stretched for too much longer the series will just go even more down hill.

My Previous Review(s) for this Series : Book 6 | Book 7

My Previous Review(s) for this Author : Divine By Blood | Elphame’s Choice

Author Book Trailer :

If you can't see/watch the above video then click here to watch it.

Book Teaser(s) :
"Oh, and maybe one of the me's could take a long bubble bath and listen to my Kenny Chesney while I read the end of A Night to Remember."
"A Night to Remember? You mean that Titanic story I read last year in Lit class?"
"Yeah. We'd just started it when I died and un-died, so I never got to finish it."
"Here. I'll help ya out. THE SHIP SINKS. THEY DIE. The end. Now can we please move on to somethin' more important?" ~ within Chapter 16

For more information on this book, series and/or any other books by P. C. & Kristin, then please check out their website: www.infinitelyinteresting.co.



** This site is a participant in various affiliate advertising programs through Amazon.com, Rakuten Marketing, Commission Junction, IndieBound, Smashwords, Book Depository, and more that are designed to provide a means for Jess to earn minimal advertising fees by showcasing the areas you can purchase the corresponding products that Jess discusses within her blog posts.
All of these affiliate links are obvious as to which ones they are.
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Related Posts :

HoN: Oh My GODDESS!

Idolizing In: House of Night Series, Book 7

Throwback Thursday Book Reviews Jessica's February 2018 Edition | #BookTuber #BookBlog

Made the Grade: Elphame’s Choice [Young Adult Parthalon Book] by P. C. Cast

My Book Reviews & Book Index:
~ C ~ Authors

Monday, March 7, 2016

Made the Grade: The Man of the Month Series, Book 2

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon: Kindle Edition - File Size: 3787 KB | Expected Release Date: April 7, 2015 | Publisher: St. Martin's Press : Paperbacks | Obtained: NetGalley

"Burning for You" [The Man of the Month Series, Book 2] by Michele Dunaway

Author's Book Description : Mark your calendar: The Man of the Month series is back--with a sexy new hero who will definitely heat things up...

The Man of the Month The last thing Taylor Krebs wants is a man. Her crazy, possessive ex-boyfriend has caused her enough drama to last a lifetime. Putting drama and men behind her she focuses on her fledgling photography business. That is, until gorgeous fireman Joe Marino--otherwise known as Mr. September on the Sexy Public Servants Charity Calendar--walks into her life. Joe wants Taylor to photograph burn victims pro bono for a book he's spearheading for the Burn Recovery Support Group...and he'll do everything in his power to persuade her to take on his cause.

Taylor soon finds out that she isn't immune to Joe's persuasive charms--both professionally and personally--and soon they are burning up the sheets. But will Joe's secrets and Taylor's need for quiet stability tear them apart? Or will this Man of the Month also end up being Taylor's love for all days?

My Book Review : 3.5 out of 5 stars, while at the photoshoot for a hunky heroes calendar that will bring money in for charity, Taylor meets Joe (Mr. September and a confidently viral firefighter who's holding a deep secret from his past). At first, she finds Joe very cocky but as they quickly get to know one another Taylor realizes that he is keeping a deep secret that he may never open up about. Yet after Taylor's own past relationship issues will she be willing to help Joe move past his own or will everything they've worked for fall apart? Thankfully friends and family plan on keeping them together no matter what...

I LOVED the setup of this novel, it was intense and endearing with a little of Joe's "Marino Charm" thrown in to keep you laughing. I truly enjoyed the places and depth that this novel took its readers. So, sweet and heartwarming! I just wanted to keep reading about these too! Together I found both Joe and Taylor to be two stubborn fools, but so alike that I did not want to see them apart from one another either. Plus, it helped that I'm an amateur photography geek so I was very intrigued by all of the photo scenes. =0)

Nevertheless, I was NOT happy with this novel's buildup to the ending. While I understand that all romance novels need some kind of wrench to be thrown into the main couple's relationship, the one that happens between Joe and Taylor wasn't one that I enjoyed. Taylor didn't make a mistake she made an omission because she didn't want to fight about it until afterwards and while I get that Joe did need to move on and I liked the way the argument was handled afterwards seeing the way Taylor justified it all beforehand annoyed the crud out of me. Even though I mean all of that, the last chapter was cute.

Overall, I DO like this novel and recommend it to those who are fans of Ms. Dunaway and/or wanting a meaningfully hot contemporary romance!

Purchase This Book and/or The Other Books From It's Series Here : eBooks.com (eBook) : A Little Christmas Jingle (Book 1) | eBooks.com (eBook) : Fan the Flames (Book 3) | Amazon (Kindle) : A Little Christmas Jingle (Book 1) | Amazon (Kindle) : Fan the Flames (Book 3) | Barnes & Noble (NOOK Book) : A Little Christmas Jingle (Book 1) | Barnes & Noble (NOOK Book) : Fan the Flames (Book 3)

Burning for You
eBooks.com (eBook) : Burning for You (Book 2)

Amazon (Kindle) : Burning for You (Book 2)
Burning for You
Barnes & Noble (NOOK Book) : Burning for You (Book 2)

My Previous Review(s) for this Series : Book 1

My Previous Mention(s) of this Author's Books/Characters : Teaser Tuesday: A Little Christmas Jingle | Best Book Couples -- Happy Valentine's Day 2015

Book Teaser(s) :
"So your perfect plan went to hell."
She laughed. "As it so often does. Case in point, I'm here with you." ~ within Chapter 3

BURNING FOR YOU by Michele Dunaway -- Read my #bookreview here:...

Posted by From Me to You - Video, Photography, & Book Reviews on Monday, March 7, 2016

Book Preview(s) :
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Michele, then please check out her Amazon Acct.

Thursday, April 29, 2010

Idolizing In: House of Night Series, Book 7

Format: Hardcover | Pages: 323 | Release Date: April 2010 | Publisher: St. Martin's Press

"Burned" [House of Night Series, Book 7] by P. C. Cast & Kristin Cast

My Book Summary : Zoey/Heath/Stark - Heath and Stark test their own strength at finding ways to save Zoey. Yet, Stark is still among the living and Heath is dead with Zoey in the Otherworld. Will Stark be able to get to them in time (only seven days) before Zoey will physically die? Or will Nefert & Kalona win by finally getting Zoey out of their way?

Aphrodite/Nerd Herd/Darius - All are trying to help Stark with finding a way to save Zoey. Aphrodite is learning more about what is means to be a Prophetess of Nyx by accepting her abilities more and trying to hold everyone together while Zoey is away.

Stevie Rae - As the only one left in Tulsa she is trying to help in her own way. However, while she wants to help Zoey, her own world is coming down around her. She begins a love triangle that she really can't explain. Especially with secrets, starting between her first boyfriend and her might just tear her world apart. Then to top things off the "evil" red fledglings are doing more damage then she knows how to deal with and its up to her to stop them before things get even more out of hand.

My Book Review : 5 out of 5 stars! As always I LOVED THIS BOOK!!!!! This is one of my favorite series! The House of Night series keeps you on your toes, makes you curious as to what will happen next, and this book was no different. I really wish it had a couple 100+ more page in it so I didn't have to finish. This series has evolved so much that it changed from a first person story to reading from six different points-of-views. The best part about that is the authors have not fallen off track from the plot at all with it jumping around so much. It was just ..... awesome ... Awesome ... AWESOME!!! *hehee* I laughed and I definitely cried ..... and I already CANNOT wait until the next book of this series comes out! =0) Zoey + Stark = ♥ | Zoey + Heath = ♥ | Stevie Rae + her new "man" = ♥

My Previous Review(s) for this Series : Book 6

Author Book Trailer :

If you can't see/watch the above video then click here to watch it.


Book Teaser :
Stevie Rae looked from vampyre to vampyre. "Y'all need to get your shit together. Here's a newsflash from the only High Priestess you have left at this dang school: Zoey isn't dead. And believe me, I know dead. I've been there, done that, and got the frickin' T-shirt." ~ within Chapter 7

For more information on this book, series and/or any other books by P. C. & Kristin, then please check out these websites: www.pccastauthor.com & kcastauthor.com.



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Saturday, November 8, 2014

Made the Grade: Christmas Brides by Suzanne Enoch, Alexandra Hawkins, Elizabeth Essex, & Valerie Bowman

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Paperback - Pages: 384; Kindle Edition - File Size: 937 KB | Expected Release Date: September 30, 2014 | Publisher: St. Martin's Press | Obtained: NetGalley

"Christmas Brides" by Suzanne Enoch, Alexandra Hawkins, Elizabeth Essex, & Valerie Bowman

Authors' Book Description : Relax on a silent night and dive into Christmas Brides, a lush historical holiday anthology featuring a brand-new story from USA Today bestselling author Alexandra Hawkins. And back by popular demand from last Christmas, previously published One Hot Scot, The Scandal Before Christmas, and It Happened Under the Mistletoe are back to deck the halls in this sensual Christmas collection.

One Hot Scot by Suzanne Enoch
Duncan Lenox lives surrounded by enemies, a MacLawry in a land of Campbells. But when an English beauty has nowhere else to turn, he feels obligated to help. Now that they must spend a night together in an abandoned cottage while a storm rages on, will their mutual passion save—or doom—them both?

Once Upon a Christmas Scandal by Alexandra Hawkins
Lady Ellen is outraged when she learns her dowry’s been increased by her dad, eager to draw every bachelor in England to her front door. So when Lord Swainsbury comes knocking, Ellen assumes he’s another dreadful fortune hunter. Little does she know that Swainsbury has completely fallen for her—body, heart, and soul...

The Scandal Before Christmas by Elizabeth Essex
Lieutenant Ian Worth needs a wife by Christmas. He has to find her, woo her, and wed her before he goes back to sea. Anne Lesley is a shy spinster with no prospects, so she accepts Ian’s hasty offer only for the security it will bring. But when a midwinter storm rolls in, things start to heat up between them...and they might just find true, honest-to-goodness love

It Happened Under the Mistletoe by Valerie Bowman
Oliver Townsende intends to avoid the hordes of marriage-minded misses at a friend’s holiday party. When he meets Miss Cerian Blake, who’s dodging her own unwanted set of admirers, the two decide to join forces and fake an infatuation to keep their suitors at bay. But when mistletoe becomes involved, will their Christmastime prank turn into a love to last all seasons?



"One Hot Scot" [Christmas Brides Anthology, Novella 1] & [Scandalous Highlanders Series, Book 0.5] by Suzanne Enoch

Author's Story Description : While attending her aunt's wedding in Inverness, Julia Prentiss is literally swept off her feet by a man who kidnaps her for her fortune. Julia manages to escape from his estate in the Highlands, only to find herself alone, lost, and hunted in a strange land. When she stumbles across a naked man in a lake, she thinks her luck has gone from bad to worse...or has it?

Duncan Lenox lives surrounded by enemies, a MacLawry in a land of Campbells. With three sisters at home who rely on him, he's become a very cautious man. But when an auburn-haired English beauty has nowhere else to turn, he feels obligated to help. When the two are forced to spend the night in an abandoned cottage while a storm rages and enemies circle, they find a mutual passion that could save -- or doom -- them both.

My Story Review : 3 out of 5 stars, a woman sets out in the Highlands in hopes of celebrating Christmas the way she wanted but finds herself alone in a cabin/cottage with a stranger who promises to help her get back home, if only she doesn’t lose her heart to him first.

It’s a sweet story. Yet, I found the beginning to be a bit slow even though Duncan is naked then. =0)

Nevertheless, I enjoyed how this story picked up in the middle and how Duncan & Julia’s relationship grew throughout it. I do recommend this story to those who like holiday romances that have hot Highlanders in them!

Purchase This Story and/or The Other Stories From It's Series Here : AMAZON.COM : One Hot Scot | KOBO : One Hot Scot | ALIBRIS : The Devil Wears Kilts | AMAZON.COM : The Devil Wears Kilts | KOBO : The Devil Wears Kilts | ALIBRIS : Rogue With A Brogue | AMAZON.COM : Rogue With A Brogue | KOBO : Rogue With A Brogue | AMAZON.COM : Mad, Bad, and Dangerous in Plaid | KOBO : Mad, Bad, and Dangerous in Plaid

Author's Story Extras : One Hot Scot - Overview

Author's Series Extras : The Devil Wears Kilts - Overview & Excerpt | Rogue With A Brogue - Overview & Excerpt

Story Teaser :
She picked up a black knight and showed it to him. "Did you think this would be you today?"
He chuckled. "A black knight? Nae a white knight?"
She grinned back at him. "Well, you were naked."
"Aye. That I was." ~ within Chapter 2
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Suzanne, then please check out her website.



"Once Upon a Christmas Scandal" [Christmas Brides Anthology, Novella 2] & [Lords of Vice Series, Book 7.5] by Alexandra Hawkins

Author's Story Description : Lady Ellen is outraged when she learns her dowry’s been increased by her dad, eager to draw every bachelor in England to her front door. So when Lord Swainsbury comes knocking, Ellen assumes he’s another dreadful fortune hunter. Little does she know that Swainsbury has completely fallen for her—body, heart, and soul...

My Story Review : 4.5 out of 5 stars! A woman, who is coming into her "spinster years," finds out that her parents want her to get a husband so badly, before her father might die, that they raise her dowry and now has to fight off "fortune hunters." Hopefully she won't fight off the one man who wants her for herself...

I love how this story thrusts its readers right into the action from the very beginning. It's a charming story about an independent woman finding a man who tries to protect her from an unknown man. Ellen & Derrick are a perfect matchup, I'm so glad they ended up together! Their romance was one I would read again!

I recommend this story to those who are fans of Ms. Hawkins historical series and to those who like historical holiday romances!

Purchase This Story and/or The Other Stories From It's Series Here : ALIBRIS : All Night with a Rogue | AMAZON.COM : All Night with a Rogue | KOBO : All Night with a Rogue | ALIBRIS : Till Dawn with the Devil | AMAZON.COM : Till Dawn with the Devil | KOBO : Till Dawn with the Devil | AMAZON.COM : After Dark with a Scoundrel | KOBO : After Dark with a Scoundrel | ALIBRIS : Sunrise with a Notorious Lord | AMAZON.COM : Sunrise with a Notorious Lord | KOBO : Sunrise with a Notorious Lord | ALIBRIS : All Afternoon with a Scandalous Marquess | AMAZON.COM : All Afternoon with a Scandalous Marquess | KOBO : All Afternoon with a Scandalous Marquess | ALIBRIS : Dusk with a Dangerous Duke | AMAZON.COM : Dusk with a Dangerous Duke | KOBO : Dusk with a Dangerous Duke | ALIBRIS : Twilight with the Infamous Earl | AMAZON.COM : Twilight with the Infamous Earl | KOBO : Twilight with the Infamous Earl

My Previous Mention(s) of this Author's Books/Characters : Second Sentence Saturday: Once Upon a Christmas Scandal

Author's Story Extras : Christmas Brides - Overview & Excerpt


Story Teaser :
"Enough." Her father raised the book in his hands as if he was fighting down the urge to fling it at the nearest wall. "And what of Mr. Neese? What was wrong with him?"
"His right leg is shorter than his left," she blurted out. "The difference sends him into tables, plants, and walls."
She had exaggerated a bit about Mr. Neese's clumsiness. However, she had sensed her mother's meddling the moment the gentleman had awkwardly asked her to dance. She had put them both out of misery as quickly as possible.
"And Lord Rouger?"
Ellen tried not to share at the muscle twitching near her father's left eye. "What of him?"
"Did you truly liken his handsomeness to your favorite horse?"
She leaned forward, her face guileless. "It was a sincere compliment, Papa." ~ within Chapter 1
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Alexandra, then please check out her website.



"The Scandal Before Christmas" [Christmas Brides Anthology, Novella 3] & [The Reckless Brides Series, Book 3.5] by Elizabeth Essex

Author's Story Description : Lieutenant Ian Worth needs a wife by Christmas, and he can’t afford to be choosy. He has to find her, woo her, and wed her before he goes back to sea—all within a matter of days. Anne Lesley is a shy spinster with no prospects, and nothing and no one to recommend her but her own self. She accepts the lieutenant’s hasty offer only for the comfort and security it will bring. But when a midwinter storm snows her and Ian in, they both find they got much more than they bargained for—laughter, light, and a Christmas filled with honest to goodness true love...

My Story Review : 3 out of 5 stars, this is a sweet historical romance that keeps entertained while allowing you to enjoy catching up with favorite past characters.

Ian and Anne's story is charming in the way that they become friends, to confidants, to lovers. Plus it helped that they have similar interests.

All in all, I recommend it to anyone who is a fan of the series and to those who enjoy historical (slightly erotic) romances!

Purchase This Story and/or The Other Stories From It's Series Here : ALIBRIS : Almost a Scandal | AMAZON.COM : Almost a Scandal | KOBO : Almost a Scandal | ALIBRIS : A Breath of Scandal | AMAZON.COM : A Breath of Scandal | KOBO : A Breath of Scandal | ALIBRIS : Scandal in the Night | AMAZON.COM : Scandal in the Night | KOBO : Scandal in the Night | AMAZON.COM : The Scandal Before Christmas | KOBO : The Scandal Before Christmas | ALIBRIS : After the Scandal | AMAZON.COM : After the Scandal | KOBO : After the Scandal | ALIBRIS : A Scandal to Remember | AMAZON.COM : A Scandal to Remember | KOBO : A Scandal to Remember | AMAZON.COM : A Scandal to Remember | KOBO : A Scandal to Remember

My Previous Review(s) for this Series : Book 1 | Book 3.5

My Previous Mention(s) of this Author's Books/Characters : Teaser Tuesdays: Almost a Scandal | Feasted On: Eloisa's Fairy Tales Series, Book 4 | The Books I'm Thankful For (so far) in 2012 | Best Book Couples -- Happy Valentine's Day 2013

Author's Story Extras : Pinterest: The Scandal Before Christmas | The Scandal Before Christmas - Overview & Excerpt

Author's Series Extras : Pinterest: Almost a Scandal | Pinterest: A Breath of Scandal | Pinterest: Scandal in the Night | Pinterest: After the Scandal | Pinterest: A Scandal to Remember | Almost A Scandal - Overview & Excerpt | A Breath of Scandal - Overview & Excerpt | Scandal in the Night - Overview & Excerpt | After the Scandal - Overview & Excerpt | A Scandal to Remember - Overview & Excerpt | Sal & Col named Best Book Couples

Story Teaser :
Yet still, she did not speak.
But with the mother still carrying on---"This chimney appears to draw well. So important to have a fire that draws cleanly, don't you think? I always say..."---no one could get a word in edgewise. It was no wonder the girl was silent as the tomb.
God's balls. Maybe she was a mute, who never spoke. Or couldn't. Maybe--- ~ within Chapter 3
TEASER #2 ~ within Chapter 5
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Elizabeth, then please check out her website.



"It Happened Under the Mistletoe" [Christmas Brides Anthology, Novella 4] & [The Secret Brides Series, Book 3.5] by Valerie Bowman

Author's Story Description : When Oliver Townsende escapes to his friend’s house for a Christmas party, he intends to avoid the hordes of marriage-minded misses who have been dogging his steps in London ever since he inherited a dukedom. He soon learns a bit of Yuletide peace and quiet is too much to ask for. When he encounters Miss Cerian Blake, who’s dodging her own unwanted set of admirers, the two decide to join forces and fake an infatuation to keep their suitors at bay. But when a bough of mistletoe becomes involved, will their Christmastime prank turn into a love to last all seasons?

My Story Review : 3.5 out of 5 stars! Two people are looking for the same thing in finding a spouse ... a love match but, because of their inheritances, it's hard to find that certain person who is being true ... that is until they meet each other.

Oliver and Cerian's blossoming romance is one that I thoroughly enjoyed reading about. From their growing friendship to their personal worries/feelings for each other, this novella is one that I didn't want to finish, as I liked the main characters so much. In addition, that mysterious cat was fun to find out about, especially when it kept showing up at the most opportune times and suddenly wearing random decorations.

Overall, I recommend this novella to anyone who likes historical romances!

Purchase This Story and/or The Other Stories From It's Series Here : ALIBRIS : Secrets of a Wedding Night | AMAZON.COM : Secrets of a Wedding Night | KOBO : Secrets of a Wedding Night | AMAZON.COM : A Secret Proposal | KOBO : A Secret Proposal | ALIBRIS : Secrets of a Runaway Bride | AMAZON.COM : Secrets of a Runaway Bride | KOBO : Secrets of a Runaway Bride | AMAZON.COM : A Secret Affair | KOBO : A Secret Affair | ALIBRIS : Secrets of a Scandalous Marriage | AMAZON.COM : Secrets of a Scandalous Marriage | KOBO : Secrets of a Scandalous Marriage | AMAZON.COM : It Happened Under The Mistletoe | KOBO : It Happened Under The Mistletoe

My Previous Review(s) for this Series : Book 3.5

My Previous Mention(s) of this Author's Books/Characters : Best Book Couples -- Happy Valentine's Day 2014

Author's Story Extras : It Happened Under the Mistletoe - Overview & Excerpt | Dashing Duchess Release: It Happened Under the Mistletoe (Giveaway!) | It Happened Under the Mistletoe is on Sale Now and FREE Christmas Presents!

Author's Series Extras : The Secret Brides Series - Overview | Secrets of a Wedding Night - Overview & Excerpt | A Secret Proposal - Overview & Excerpt | Secrets of a Runaway Bride - Overview & Excerpt | A Secret Affair - Overview & Excerpt | Secrets of a Scandalous Marriage - Overview & Excerpt | Valerie Bowman Books May News! | New Release, Signing, & a Workshop at the RWA National Conference in Atlanta! | August Workshops, Preorder Gift, and Say Yes to the Dress Update! | Secrets of a Scandalous Marriage earns a STARRED review from Publishers Weekly! | Runaway Bride is an RT Reviewers’ Choice Nominee and December News!

Story Teaser :
TEASER #1 ~ within Chapter 2
"Seems the entire house party is talking about us," he began.
She pursed her lips. "No doubt they're agog at our antics."
He nodded.
"It is what we wanted, after all," she pointed out.
"Indeed."
He opened his mouth to speak, then closed it again. Then he repeated both actions. Twice.
"Your grace?" ~ within Chapter 8
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Valerie, then please check out her website.



My Book Review : For the full book I give it 3.5 out of 5 stars!! These were engaging holiday romances that I believe anyone who likes reading about historical books would enjoy! I definitely recommend this anthology to those who what to read about handsome and charming historical heroes who end up winning a wife during the holiday season!

Purchase This Book and/or The Other Books That Connect To Some Of The Above Stories Here : KOBO : Christmas Brides | ALIBRIS : Christmas Brides



Authors' Anthology Extras : Ms. Hawkins' Christmas Brides - Overview & Excerpt | Ms. Essex's Christmas Brides - Overview & Excerpt | Ms. Bowman's Christmas Brides - Overview & Excerpt | Ms. Bowman's Christmas Brides - Overview & Excerpt | September News! Maggie Finalist and the Christmas Brides are Coming!

Book Teaser(s) :

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