Blog Tour - Idolizing In: A Season of Change by Lynette Sowell | Review & Kindle HDX Giveaway

Today I'm turning my blog over to Lynette Sowell, with a review of "A Season of Change," which is the 1st book in her Seasons of Pinecraft Series!!

ALSO -- Be sure to sign up for this tour's GIVEAWAYs (listed below)!! [Blog Tour will run from May 27 - June 12, 2014 | Giveaway ends on June 12, 2014 | Lynette's "A Season of Change" Author Chat Party on Facebook is on June 12, 2014]

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- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Paperback - Pages: 322; Kindle Edition - File Size: 2866 KB | Expected Release Date: May 20, 2014 | Publisher: Abingdon Press | Obtained: Litfuse Publicity Group

"A Season of Change" [Seasons of Pinecraft Series, Book 1] by Lynette Sowell

Author's Book Description : An Amish widower finds love in unexpected places

Amish widower Jacob Miller believes it was a mistake to visit the Amish village of Pinecraft for winter vacation, especially after his daughter is struck by a car. Stranded in Sarasota until his daughter recovers, Jacob grows increasingly wary of events that unfold in his unfamiliar surroundings—including the strange curiosity of Englischer Natalie Bennett.

Natalie never thought her circus career as an aerial silks artist would end with a blown-out knee at the age of 25. She also never knew her late mother had a secret—that she was once Amish.

When Natalie meets the Millers at the Sarasota hospital, she is attracted to their warm hospitality and simple ways—and soon wonders if they can help her find her mother’s family. As Jacob and Natalie fall in love, their worlds collide. Will their differences tear them apart? Or will their love be strong enough to blend their clashing cultures?

My Book Review : 5 out of 5 stars!! This engaging novel will win you over with it's compelling story, about what your faith really means to you and what you're willing to change about yourself or possibly give up so you can openly love the person your falling for. I really liked how this novel gives you a different look into Amish romance while being as accurate, as can be, about some of the struggles that the Amish have to deal with if they happen to fall in love with someone not of their religion.

I really LOVED all of the characters, even Betsy though she annoyed me at times. Jacob is a nice man who is going through a very hard time, from his wife and baby dying to his daughter getting hurt, so it's the perfect time when Natalie comes into his family's lives. While Natalie is struggling about finding out who she truly is and where she belongs, Jacob and his family make her feel whole and give her life a purpose she never knew she was missing. Together Jacob and Natalie are a perfect pair, if they can over come the judgments that surround them by living in "different worlds."

The only thing that this novel is missing was an epilogue. Because of that I hope Jacob and Natalie will be secondary characters within book 2 of this series, "A Path Made Plain," so I can find out how their doing. =0)

I recommend this novel and series to anyone who enjoys Amish romances!

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

Author's Novel Extras : Pinterest: A Season of Change: Seasons in Pinecraft, Book 1 | A Season Of Change - Overview | But I’m Not An Amish Widower!


Author's Series Extras : Welcome to Pinecraft, Florida 34278

Book Teaser(s) :

“We’ve been praying for her. I suppose you’ll be heading back to the hospital later?”
“Yes, I am.” This time he wouldn’t go alone. If Betsy were to happen back to the hospital, he wouldn’t face her by himself. Also, if Natalie Bennett came back, too, in her pink pants with hems skimming her shins, and her long hair swished as she talked.
Like the women of his Order, Natalie Bennett wore her hair long, but unlike the women in his Order, she wore it down, the walnut-colored strands of silk flowing past her shoulders. Rebecca’s face glowed when Natalie had entered the room. Miss Bennett. He reminded himself of her proper name. Even Bubbles the Clown would do. ~ within Chapter 3

“I think you should know something. My family lives but one county over from your grandmother, in Tuscarawas County, not far from the Sugarcreek area.” Rachel adjusted her kapp and gave Natalie a pointed look.
“I didn’t know that. I’m not big on Ohio geography.”
“Well,” Rachel said as she picked up her house key, “if you go to Ohio, you must let me know. I have some of the children’s things to return to them. Clothing, before it’s outgrown.”
“I . . . I’m not sure if I should—”
“Humor an old woman. We Amish honor our elders and listen to them.” Rachel poked Natalie’s shoulder.
“Yes, ma’am. I’ll let you know when I go. Maybe you’d like to ride along with me?”
“Oh, no. Not at all.”
Natalie followed Rachel back into the sunshine. “You’re sure?”
“Pinecraft is my home. I don’t need to travel hither and yon.”
“Well, if I go to Ohio, I will make sure I deliver whatever it is the children have left behind.” ~ within Chapter 22

Could he follow the adage, What happens in Pinecraft, stays in Pinecraft? He’d heard the saying before, which mimicked the Englisch saying about the city of Las Vegas, nicknamed by the Englisch themselves as “sin city.” ~ within Chapter 27

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

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About the Author :

Lynette Sowell is the award-winning author of over 15 titles for Barbour Publishing, Harlequin, and Abingdon Press. Lynette was born in Western Massachusetts in the shadow of the Berkshire Mountains, raised on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, but makes her home on the doorstep of the Texas hill country. She loves reading, cooking, watching movies, and is always up for a Texas road trip. When she's not writing fiction, she works as a reporter for her city newspaper and has a weekly column called My Front Porch.

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Giveaways!! :

In "A Season of Change," book one of Lynette Sowell's new series, Seasons of Pinecraft, readers will discover a different side of the Amish community. "A Season of Change" follows Natalie and Amish widower Jacob Miller as they each discover the mysterious ways God works. Inspired by the image of a Plain woman sitting on a three-wheeled bicycle by the Pinecraft (an Amish community in Florida) post office, Sowell’s latest is a new take on the popular trend in fiction.

Lynette is celebrating with a Kindle Fire HDX giveaway and a Facebook author chat party on June 12th.


One winner will receive :

• A Kindle Fire HDX
• A copy of "Season of Change" by Lynette Sowell

To Enter : Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on June 12th. Winner will be announced at the "Season of Change" Facebook author chat party on June 12th. Connect with Lynette for an evening of fun book chat, Amish-themed trivia, and prizes. Lynette will also be answering audience questions and giving an exclusive look at the next book in the Seasons of Pinecraft series!

So grab your copy of "A Season of Change" and join Lynette on the evening of June 12th for a chance to connect and make some new friends. (If you haven't read the book, don't let that stop you from coming!)

Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP TODAY. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 12th!

ALSO -- Be sure to check out Litfuse's other Blog Tour Reviews for this novel!!

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Find Lynette Sowell :

• Lynette Sowell - Website/Blog
• Twitter
• Facebook Page
• Pinterest
• Goodreads

Blog Tour - Made the Grade: The Reluctant Marquess by Maggi Andersen | Guest Post, Review, & Giveaway

Today I'm turning my blog over to Maggi Andersen and she is talking about her favorite historical authors and how they've inspired her!!

ALSO -- Be sure to comment on this post to be able to sign up for this tour's GIVEAWAYs (listed below)!! [Blog Tour will run from March 12 - 23, 2012]

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Favorite Historical Romance Writers & How They've Influenced My Writing :

Hi Jessica, thanks for inviting me to your blog to talk about my favorite historical writers.

Growing up I read the Brontë’s ("Jane Eyre"), Jane Austen ("Pride and Prejudice") and all my mother’s books written by Georgette Heyer. I also read Victoria Holt for her Gothic romances, Daphne Du Maurier ("Rebecca") and Mary Stewart ("Touch Not The Cat") who was the first of the romantic suspense writers.

I’d have to say that Heyer was the greatest influence. I immersed myself in the world she created, although I preferred her adventure romances to her comedies of manners.

Heyer wrote her first novel, "The Black Moth," (a Georgian novel) when she was seventeen, in order to amuse her convalescent brother. It was published in 1921 to instant success and ninety-one years later it has never been out of print. Heyer created the new sub-genre of historical novel – ‘the Regency’ which was all about Society with a capital “S”. During the London Season, the Ton or ‘upper ten thousand’ as they were called, gathered at balls, routs and Almacks dances until they retired to their country estates for the shooting season.

The mansions, the fashions and graceful interiors set against a backdrop of Georgian society and the Napoleonic Wars are wonderful fodder for a romance. Reading her novels, I learned more about creating good conflict. Heyer’s characters are always opposites. In my Georgian romance, "The Reluctant Marquess" – a marriage of convenience story – Charity is an innocent country girl and Robert the sophisticated man about town.

Heyer’s character-driven novels are filled with physical tension, but the bedroom door remains firmly closed. In her era she had little choice. Writing now, I can throw open the bedchamber door, and it gives me the opportunity to reveal more about my characters.

Currently, my favorite authors are Eloisa James, who writes witty prose, Mary Balogh who crafts a fine story, Gaelen Foley who creates compelling characters and Julia Quinn for her great dialogue. There are others, too many to name here.

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About the Author :

Maggi Andersen is an Australian author. She lives in the beautiful Southern Highlands of New South Wales with her lawyer husband, their cat and the demanding wildlife. Maggi has two degrees, a BA in English and an MA in Creative Writing. Georgette Heyer, Victoria Holt and Mary Stewart were strong influences on her writing. She began her career when her children left the nest and writes in a variety of genres. Her historical romances are set in the Georgian, Regency and Victorian era.

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- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Paperback - Pages: 250; Kindle Edition - File Size: 334 KB | Expected Release Date: March 8, 2012 | Publisher: Knox Robinson Publishing | Obtained: Goddess Fish Promotions

"The Reluctant Marquess" by Maggi Andersen

My Book Summary : After losing her parents in a carriage accident Charity travels to see her godfather, the Marquess of St Malin, whom is now her guardian. Only once she arrives to his country home she is informed that her godfather has passed away recently leaving his title and estate to his nephew, Robert. However, what was stated in her godfather's will was that Robert has to marry Charity to be able to fully inherit everything or it will all be passed onto someone else.

Even though they find each other attractive, neither wants to marry the other. Charity has been raised around parents who love each other and doesn't want to marry anyone who doesn't love her. Robert is set in his ways, and tells her that if they marry, she can have a Season in London, and then after she produces an heir Charity will stay in one of the country homes. Because of Robert's demands, Charity really doesn't want to marry Robert but since she's broke what choice does she have?

Therefore, once they marry they move to London and begin their life together. However, keeping to society's standards is harder than it looks and Charity tries to make her way through it all with little help from Robert. Will she succeed? Can she change Robert's feelings for her? Can they make turn their relationship into a loving one? Or will it all be for nothing?

My Book Review : 3.5 out of 5 stars! This is an entertaining, fast-paced, charming story about two people who are both grieving losses in their families and are dealing with new life choices that they never expected to deal with. I really enjoyed reading about the struggle Charity finds herself in when it comes to conforming to society's standards without completely loosing herself in the process. Then to reading about the relationship between Charity and Robert made me not want to put down this novel!! I was a little worried about having to read about Robert's affairs, at first making me believe they might ruin this story for me, but I was pleasantly surprised with how well the story flows along and how well the affair was written in. Making it not completely an affair at all, especially in comparison to what was going on within the London society of that time.

I especially enjoyed reading about the personal grow Charity and Robert had. Very well written!!

I recommend this to anyone who enjoys reading historical romance novels!! ♥

Author's Novel Extras : The Ideal Georgian Woman | The Elegance of the Georgian Interior

Author Book Trailer :

Book Teaser(s) :

Teaser #1

“I’ve come to ask for your help, Lady Charlesworth.”
The older woman put a pale hand to her throat. “I don’t know that I could be of any help to you, my dear. But I’ll certainly try.”
“Robert appears troubled. I’m at my wits’ end to understand why.”
“Troubled?” Tears sparkled in Lady Charlesworth’s blue eyes, which were disturbingly like her son’s. Her obvious distress sent a shaft of guilt through Charity. “It might be because he has lost his uncle of whom he was inordinately fond.” ~ within Chapter 6

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

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Book Excerpt :

“Nefarious dealings go on next door,” Robert commented almost to himself as he and Charity crossed the footpath to the front door.

Charity’s eyes widened. “What sort of dealings?”

He felt unsure whether to tell her and wished he hadn’t spoken. “A house of ill-repute,” he finally said.

“Is that all?”

He held the door open for her to enter the vestibule, annoyed that she wasn’t impressed or shocked by such a revelation. “They are said to charge barren couples quite a lot of money to assist them in their quest for a child. With the use of special beds.”

“Oh.” Charity bit her lip. She put her head down and continued walking.

Bemused, Robert wondered how an innocent comment could stir up a veritable nest of unspoken feelings. “It mainly serves as a brothel offering no end of delights,” he added striding to catch up with her. His somewhat callous remark was an endeavor to guide their conversation in a safer direction. But it only served to make him recall the night of passion they had shared. A glance in Charity’s direction confirmed she was thinking of something similar, for her footsteps had faltered, and her eyelid’s looked heavy as she flicked her bottom lip with her tongue. He suffered a strong urge to draw her into that dark corner and kiss her. He found himself seriously considering it, and far more. Raising her skirts and...

He took her arm. “Charity?”

“Yes?”

A door opened at the end of the corridor and a servant poked his head out. “Please come in, Lord and Lady St Malin.”

Robert took off his hat and held it somewhere near his groin. “Shall we go in, my dear?”

Charity nodded her eyes a little vague.

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Giveaways!! :

• A $10 Amazon Gift Card to two randomly drawn commenters during the tour

To Enter : Please leave a comment on this post, with a valid email address included at the end of it.

Soo .... COMMENT, COMMENT, COMMENT on this post!! And you could WIN!! =0)

ALSO -- Be sure to follow the tour around the other blog sites! Commenting on the other stops on the tour will also increase your chance of winning!

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Find Maggi Andersen :

• Maggi Andersen
• Blog
• Twitter
• Facebook
• Goodreads

Made the Grade: Must Love Series, Book 1

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 1460 KB | Expected Release Date: September 3, 2014 | Publisher: Season Publishing | Obtained: NetGalley

"Must Love Breeches" [Must Love Series, Book 1] by Angela Quarles

Author's Book Description : She’s finally met the man of her dreams. There’s only one problem: he lives in a different century.

“A fresh, charming new voice” – New York Times bestselling author Tessa Dare

HOW FAR WOULD YOU TRAVEL FOR LOVE?

A mysterious artifact zaps Isabelle Rochon to pre-Victorian England, but before she understands the card case’s significance a thief steals it. Now she must find the artifact, navigate the pitfalls of a stiffly polite London, keep her time-traveling origins a secret, and resist her growing attraction to Lord Montagu, the Vicious Viscount so hot, he curls her toes.

To Lord Montagu nothing makes more sense than keeping his distance from the strange but lovely Colonial. However, when his scheme for revenge reaches a stalemate, he convinces Isabelle to masquerade as his fiancée. What he did not bargain on is being drawn to her intellectually as well as physically.

Lord Montagu’s now constant presence overthrows her equilibrium and her common sense. Isabelle thought all she wanted was to return home, but as passion flares between them, she must decide when her true home—as well as her heart—lies.

My Book Review : 3 out of 5 stars, travel through time with Isabelle (Belle)--a Southern historian working in London--where she meets some historical figures, gets thrown into a big cover up plot, and has the possibility of falling in love if only she allows herself too.

In truth, this novel charmed me from the very beginning. I liked the mystery of it all and her growing relationship with Phineas (Lord Montagu/Phin). In addition, I liked that Ms. Quarles stuck as close to the truth, when it came to the historical figures, as she could, as it was intriguing to learn more about them.

The chemistry between Phineas and Isabelle was undeniable. It was also, remarkably sincere in how they both grew to care for one another, but because of their personal goals and wants, they tried to deny themselves each other for the longest time. After a while, though that restraint (or in some cases--stubbornness) made me to get very annoyed with them both, because I wanted to watch their feelings grow yet they emotionally deny themselves for about 62% of this novel. Once you get to that point though the novel gets really good as you're thrown into Phineas' project and finally learn if Isabelle is willing to fully commit to Phineas or not.

I really did enjoy this novel. It was humorous, intriguing, with just enough romance to make me curious to see where everyone would end up.

Nevertheless, I'm surprised to say that even though I liked its epilogue, it's in the epilogue that it made it harder for me to believe the timeline that Ms. Quarles portrays for this novel. Since at the beginning of this novel Isabelle talks about her cell phone and if the dates that are listed in the epilogue are supposed to be "true" than some of the things she did with her cell phone just would not have been possible during that time period. Now, on the other hand, if you look at it that with Isabelle going into the past really did change history then never mind, I guess, as I might be wrong and in that "alternate reality" that could've happened. Yet, it's still hard for me to agree with. *shrug*

Overall, I'd recommend this novel to anyone who likes time travel romances!

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

Author's Novel Extras : Pinterest: Must Love Breeches | Must Love Breeches - Overview & Blog Tour Dates | Must Love Breeches, A Time Travel Romance (Excerpt) :: Chapters 1 - 4 | Oh, For A Title... | Is It Getting HOT in Here? A Steamy Kiss Blog Hop | Polishing my Pitch for the FF&P Fantasy on the Bayou Conference this weekend | Pull Out Those Pantsed Weeds in Your WIP | Make Sure Your Curtains Match the Drapes–Why Your Query’s Tone Matters | Happy Ada Lovelace Day! Who Was She? | Confessions of a Contest Whore... | Cover Reveal for MUST LOVE BREECHES | Weekend Writing Warriors – 7/6/14 | Weekend Writing Warriors – 7/13/14 | Weekend Writing Warriors – 7/20/14 | Stepping Through Time in MUST LOVE BREECHES–Weekend Writing Warriors – 8/3/14 | Stepping Through Time in MUST LOVE BREECHES–Weekend Writing Warriors – 8/10/14 | Meets Ada Lovelace in MUST LOVE BREECHES–Weekend Writing Warriors – 8/17/14 | MUST LOVE BREECHES Due Out Sep 3, Avail Now for Pre-Order | Meets the Hero in MUST LOVE BREECHES–Weekend Writing Warriors – 8/24/14 | Book Trailer Reveal for MUST LOVE BREECHES and Kickoff of Blog Tour


Author's Series Extras : Pinterest: Must Love Chainmail | Taking a short blogging hiatus | Ack! I have a plot hole! Techniques to Solve in an Early Stage

Author's Book Trailer :

Book Teaser(s) :

A sob escaped Isabelle's throat and she gripped the door handle tighter. She was stuck in the past. In 1834. How? And, more importantly, how could she get back? Was that even possible?
She had to find a way back.
To her house, her job, and oh God, her promotion. She couldn't allow that snake Andrew to beat her to it.
She lifted her skirt hem and peeked at her slippers--could it be that simple? She glanced around the room to make sure she was alone, clicked her heels together three times, and whispered, "There's no place like home."
She looked around. Same room. She shrugged. Oh, well. Of course, it couldn't be easy. ~ within Chapter 6

He sought to calm. "I am gratified by your concern, but my surgeon will attend it. You need not worry."
"Oh God, a surgeon?"
Her face and tone of voice, the expression of both, imparted the idea he had said he would rip a horrible monster from the bowels of hell to clean the wound. She had the strangest notions he had ever encountered.
"Yes, my surgeon is quite capable, I assure you."
"They don't still believe in leeches for that particular wound, do they? I can't remember..." A frown creased her brow and a look of concentration crossed her face, as if reviewing her memory. This woman puzzled him indeed.
"No doubt probable for this type of injury, to prevent inflammation. Quite routine." He hoped his tone of voice and the words themselves reassured her.
She reeled back as if struck, her face contorted. "You cannot be serious."
It was his turn to frown. "Of course. I am unacquainted with medical practices performed in America, but I assure you, my surgeon if one of London's best. I daresay superior to any you have there."
She curled her hands into fists and propped them on her hips. "Wow, of all the arrogant-- you don't know the half of it-- And I can't even--"
Her arms came toward him, and he honestly thought she would strike him again. ~ within Chapter 12

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

Made the Grade: Wicked Shores Series, Book 1

Format: eBook | File Size: 1.5 MB | Release Date: December 24, 2013 | Publisher: Samhain Publishing | Obtained: Samhain Publishing | Originally Found Out About @ Jodi Redford's Facebook Page

"Three Ways to Wicked" [Wicked Shores Series, Book 1] by Jodi Redford

Author's Book Description : Three ingredients for a hot summer: sun, sand, and sizzling sex.

Following a nasty breakup with her ex, Kayla English is eager to get her erotic writing mojo back on track. Except progress on her current book has flatlined, right along with her belief in happily-ever-after.

Solution? Two weeks of solitude in the Florida sun thanks to some friends' generous offer to house-sit their place on the beach. She didn't count on having roommates--or on getting the sexiest peepshow of her life.

Seven years after an intimate encounter rocked their worlds, business partners Tyler Bishop and Gibb Masters have kept things strictly in the friend zone. A recent storm has left them homeless, though. They figure moving into Ty’s parents’ place is preferable to roughing it elsewhere, even if it means resisting the temptation to slip between the sheets with Kayla…and each other.

As the days heat up, so does their three-way attraction. But when emotions run deeper than any of them expect, three wary hearts must decide if it’s worth the risk to write their own HEA.

Warning: This book brings the dirty. We're talking dirty sex in an outdoor shower, on a boat, and on the kitchen counter with a dirty-mouthed Casanova. In other words, all the good stuff with a side of glow-in-the-dark body paint.

My Book Review : 3 out of 5 stars, this sweet erotic romance is about three long-time friends coming to terms with their feelings for one another, and when they do, it'll change all their lives for the better! Together the dreams they've always craved will come true!

Tyler (Ty), Kayla (Kay), & Gibb are good friends but even better lovers. They allow each other the opportunity to be who they are supposed to be, while getting over past hurts in their lives. Kay gets the best of both worlds with Ty being the "dirty-mouthed Casanova" and Gibb being the protective/sweet-type. Together the three of them fall in love while providing a lot of interesting sexual exploits for you to enjoy!

My only wish is that the plot flowed a bit better, as it seemed to go a little to slow in some parts while a bit to fast in others. Nevertheless, I loved the characters and can't wait to see where this series will take us!

I recommend this novella to anyone who enjoys erotic three-way romances!

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

My Previous Interview(s) with this Author or the Author's Characters : November 2011 | February 2012

My Previous Review(s) for this Author : That Voodoo You Do | The Naughty List | Maximum Witch | Getting Familiar With Your Demon | Cat Scratch Fever | Breaking Bad

My Previous Mention(s) of this Author's Books/Characters : Jess' Update :: September 20th 2011 | Winter Themed Books To Warm You Up During the 2011 Holiday Season | Best Book Couples -- Happy Valentine's Day 2012 | Teaser Tuesdays: Breaking Bad | Best Book Couples -- Happy Valentine's Day 2013 | Welcome to Small Business Saturday/Week

Author's Novel Extras : Three Ways to Wicked Reviewer ARCs!

Book Teaser(s) :

They pulled into the driveway directly behind Kayla. Not a moment too soon, considering Gibb was sporting the bluest balls known to mankind. He killed the Bronco’s engine and pocketed the keys before hopping outside. Looking to hide his anxiousness, he deliberately kept his posture loose and casual as he approached Kay. From the corner of his eye, he noticed Ty reveling in a knowing smirk. Asshole was thoroughly enjoying testing Gibb’s threshold for sexual torment.
Kay clicked her car door shut and turned toward them with a readied smile. Something in Gibb’s expression must have ratted out his state of mind because her eyes widened several fractions. So much for his bullshit attempt at pretending he wasn’t frothing at the mouth to get intimately acquainted with her pussy again. Her lips parted, but before any words could slip free, the solitary thread comprising his frayed control unraveled, and he nudged her against the Camry’s doorframe. ~ within Chapter 10

She couldn’t imagine not waking up every day in their arms, just content in knowing her world was a wonderful place because they resided within it.
But that’s precisely what she had to look forward to after this week. Endless days without Ty and Gibb.
Throat tight with emotion, she settled her purse on the floor and went to inspect the paints. Dropping onto her haunches, she unscrewed the cap of the closest jar and eyed its bright blue contents. “Ooh, I get to make you guys into Smurfs!”
Ty groaned. “You didn’t just say that.”
“Okay, how about that dude from Avatar?”
“Better.”
Before she could tease Ty any further, Gibb shut off the lights, sealing them in an expansive dark wonderland backdropped by a glowing neon rainforest. Her delighted gasp sneaking loose, she lifted to her feet and gaped at the intricate pattern of foliage decorating the opposite wall. The effect was so realistic she swore the fern fronds would rustle beneath her fingertips. ~ within Chapter 14

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

Feasted On: Atlantic City Hustlers Series, Novella 1

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 1502 KB | Expected Release Date: November 17, 2014 | Publisher: Entangled Publishing : Lovestruck | Obtained: Entangled Publishing

"Flirting on Ice" [Atlantic City Hustlers Series, Novella 1] by Veronica Forand & Susan Scott Shelley

Authors' Book Description : Mr. Perfect has found his kind of trouble...

Professional hockey player Zac Elliott is in top form. He’s having the best season of his career, the local fans can’t get enough of him, and he’s in the middle of the most successful contract negotiations of his career. When the sexy little spark between Zac and the team owner’s daughter blazes to life, no matter how forbidden, he can’t resist.

Philanthropist Heather Ryan can’t keep her hands off of Zac. If her father finds out, it could end Zac’s career and ruin her reputation. What they share is deeply passionate and intensely private...until the press exposes their illicit relationship.

Now the fans have viciously turned against Heather, Zac’s game is faltering, and even his team has deserted him. The only way out of the penalty box is for Zac to play hockey like life—and love—depends on it...

My Book Review : 4.5 out of 5 stars, after four years of getting to know each other through her family's hockey organization Heather finally gives into her desires to know Zac better, however once their relationship becomes known everyone tries to keep them apart. Is sticking together really worth the effort they are going to have to put into winning the approval of everyone or is being apart for the best?

This fast-paced holiday romance will win you over from the beginning! I liked how charismatic Zac is. Also, I enjoyed how he goes about winning over Heather and proving to everyone that their relationship is more than a one-time thing. It was steamy, sweet, & charming!

If this is truly a series, I am interested into seeing where the characters main & secondary will go next!

I recommend this novel to those who want to read an enchanting holiday romance!

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


Authors' Novel Extras : Get Wicked With Entangled Blog Hop

Book Teaser(s) :

Post by From Me to You - Video, Photography, & Book Reviews.

Sequoia frowned, and any sign of his oldest, dearest friend evaporated. “I don’t usually give you dating advice, but in this case, it’s needed. Don’t screw around with Heather. She’s a good kid and doesn’t need the shit the fans put her through tonight.”
“It’s not like that.”
“What’s it like?”
“I like her. A lot. And I know she feels the same way. She gets me. Almost as much as you do.”
A grin emerged on Sequoia’s face and transformed the two-hundred-pound right-winger back into a friend. “What can I do to help?”
“I need your car. Can you get a ride from someone else tonight?”
“I’ll go with Mikael.” He tossed Zac the keys to his Escalade. “Have fun.” ~ within Chapter 4

For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Veronica & Susan, then please check out their websites: Veronica's website & Susan's website.

Made the Grade: The Farewell Season by Ann Herrick

Format: Kindle Edition | File Size: 1024 KB | Release Date: May 2011 | Publisher: Puddletown Publishing Group | Obtained: Amazon.com

"The Farewell Season" by Ann Herrick

My Book Summary : Eric is dealing with a lot ever since his father died about four months ago, anger, grief, and the unknown of how his life is going to be from now on. But mostly he's not really dealing with those feelings at all yet bottling them up. Therefore, now that football training has begun he's doing things he's never done before...lashing out at his coach, fighting with his best friend, and finding disenchantment with football. Things get better for him once he starts a friendship with Glynnie, a high school columnist, but can he work through some of his anger and grief before he makes decisions that will change his life...

My Book Review : 3 out of 5 stars. A teenage guy deals with the death of his father. I liked the way this novel shows Eric's grief and how Glynnie, unintentionally and intentionally, helps him deal with it.

I recommend this to anyone who likes dramatic YA novels that have a slight romance to them.

Author's Novel Extras : Are you living in your Soulplace? | A Weighty Romance | Cross Genre

Book Teaser(s) :

"They don't give up, do they?" Glynnie asked.
"They're relentless," I said. "They go through all the effort of swimming upstream no matter what, just so they can spawn and die."
"Too bad some fathers don't do that," Glynnie said sarcastically. She clapped her hand over her mouth. "Oh, Eric ... I didn't mean ... I was thinking of my ... oh, me and my big mouth."
"No problem," I said quickly. I knew what she meant. Still, the mood was broken and we both knew it. It was too late to go back and recapture that rare moment of feeling carefree.
"I really messed up. I'm sorry. You brought me all the way up here, for a few minutes it actually took my mind off everything, and I blow it."
I couldn't stand the way Glynnie's brief look of happiness faded into a gloomy sorrow that seemed to weigh her down. "There's only one way to deal with such incompetence." I scooped Glynnie up in my arms, carried her over to the fingerling collecting area and held her over the water.
"And now, you will swim with the fishes." I'm not sure how mob-like I sounded, but it was the best I could do on short notice. I guess my plan worked, because Glynnie's shrieks were of laughter, not terror.
I had to put her down. Her laughter was catching. I tried to hold it in, but I couldn't.
We both stopped, looked at each other, then there was another spurt of laughs and snorts. ~ within Chapter 9

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

Feasted On: The Naughty List by Jodi Redford

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 310 KB | Expected Release Date: November 29, 2011 | Publisher: Samhain Publishing | Obtained: Jodi Redford

"The Naughty List" by Jodi Redford

My Book Summary : For the past fifteen years, Bram & Ryan (Ry) have been in love with their best friend Lacey. However, not wanting to mess up the relationship between each other they decided a long time ago that they would hold back their feelings for her and just remain friends. Now years later they are still the "three amigos" and own a bar/restaurant together. Recently Lacey is thinking that she is over her heartache (that occurred about a year ago by her ex-fiancé cheating on her) and thinking it's time for her to start dating again.

Later that week after having a little too much wine, Lacey creates a "Naughty List" to try to make herself be bolder by listing all of the raunchy/sexual things she'd like to do .... with Bram and Ry. However, when she's finished writing it up she decides to send it to her work email, and accidentally emails it to the guy too!!

The next day when Bram and Ry see that list, there is no way they are willing to hold back there feelings now! The only thing that's missing is trying to prove that a relationship with both of them would work, but is Lacey ready to give up on her fear of getting her heart broken again?

My Book Review : 4 out of 5 stars, this story is HOT, Sexy, and Sweet just in time for this holiday season to keep us warm!! The sex scenes in this story are wonderfully written in a way I've never read before and it will definitely rev up your blood pressure!! To top that off I really enjoyed the relationship between Bram, Lacey, & Ry ... it was very sweet and because they've known each other for so long, I enjoyed reading the comrade feel that they all shared for each other.

Overall, if you enjoy erotic novels that has a good plot too then this is a good book for you to read!!

However, I will say that the reason this story didn't get 5 stars (the highest rating I have) is because I wasn't impressed with how Lacey handled the situation, it disappointed me a bit but thankfully I liked how the author ended the book! Now if only the story was a little longer and told me what is going on now with them ... but oh wells.

In truth, though I really did enjoy this book. I wish I had my own Ry & Bram!

My Previous Review(s) for this Author : That Voodoo You Do

Book Teaser(s) :

“Number four?”
“Sex in a public place.”
One of his eyebrows arched. “Bold.”
“Too much?”
“Fuck no. Just right.” His tongue gave a barely there flick across her clit. She squirmed, desperate for more. He moved away, his hazel eyes teasing. “Number five?”
“I’d visit that sex club downtown. The one you think I don’t know you and Ry have gone to.”
His jaw dropped. “How the hell did you find out?”
“I heard you and Ry talking about it once.” She blushed. “I wondered what you would do if I showed up there.”
Those sinful irises darkened. ~ within Chapter 3

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

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Check out the Giveaway for this book -- HERE -- All you have to do to enter is answer a question!! [Contest ends on November 29th 2011]

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** 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 :

Feasted On: That Old Black Magic Series, Book 1	Made the Grade: That Old Black Magic Series, Book 3	Interview with Jodi Redford	Winter Themed Books To Warm You Up During the 2011 Holiday Season	My Book Reviews & Book Index: ~ R ~ Authors

Spreading the Word: Bar V5 Dude Ranch Series, Book 5

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 1326 KB | Expected Release Date: October 25, 2015 | Publisher: Tule Publishing : Montana Born Books | Obtained: NetGalley

"A Christmas Homecoming" [Bar V5 Dude Ranch Series, Book 5] by Melissa McClone

Authors' Book Description : A kiss is just a kiss…

Unless it’s under the mistletoe.

Ellie Smith is determined to make up for Christmases past by spreading holiday cheer throughout the Bar V5 dude ranch, but tech “bah, humbug” billionaire, Josiah Whittaker, refuses to bask in the spirit of the season.

Unwilling to let the geek-to-gorgeous Josiah win, Ellie plans to give him a Christmas he’ll never forget. But after a simple kiss under the mistletoe, Ellie and Josiah both start questioning everything. Can Christmas really bring the gift neither one of them were expecting: true love?

My Book Review : DNF – While I am a big fan of Ms. McClone and her Bar V5 Dude Ranch Series, as well as I enjoyed getting updates of past characters, my interest in this one just couldn’t hold for long. I mean the plot was great; a Grinch-like guy forced stay at the ranch brings him into constant contact with a girl (turned woman) from his past who loves Christmas and shows him what he truly needs in his life. But by 60% of the way through I was starting to struggle as the plot slowed down and by 74% I just gave up. I wish I could have stayed into it, as I would have liked, as there were awesome one-liners and scenes leading up to 60%. I just hope that everyone else will be more hooked into it than I was able to be.

Purchase This Book Here :

Kobo (e-Book) USD : A Christmas Homecoming (Book 5)	Amazon (Kindle) USD : A Christmas Homecoming (Book 5)	Barnes & Noble (NOOK Book) USD : A Christmas Homecoming (Book 5)
Kobo (e-Book) USD : Bar V5 Dude Ranch Series		Amazon (Kindle) USD : Bar V5 Dude Ranch Series

My Previous Review(s) for this Series : Book 2 | Book 3 | Book 4

My Previous Review(s) for this Author : Expecting Royal Twins!

My Previous Mention(s) of this Author's Books/Characters : Second Sentence Saturday: Kiss Me, Cowboy | Blog Tour - Bar V5 Dude Ranch Series by Melissa McClone | Spreading the Word & Gift Card with Mini Swag Bag Giveaway | Blog Tour - The Cowboys of Copper Mountain by Jane Porter, Melissa McClone and Katherine Garbera | Spreading the Word & Gift Card Giveaway | Best Book Couples -- Happy Valentine's Day 2015

Author's Novel Extras :

Author's Series Extras : Bar V5 Dude Ranch Series - Overview

Book Teaser(s) :

Hallmark movie perfect. His idea of a living hell. ~ within Chapter 1

The Grinch had the right idea when he tried to stop Christmas from coming. Josiah hoped the holiday spirit wasn't contagious. Better skip any offers of eggnog to be on the safe side. ~ within Chapter 1

"You're a country girl at heart, and that's all you need to be."
The air rushed from her lungs. Tingles exploded across her skin. She'd dreamed about someone seeing her.
Josiah did.
He saw her. ~ within Chapter 9

Book Preview(s) :

For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Melissa, then please check out her Amazon Acct.

Cover Reveal: East of Ecstasy by Laura Kaye

"East of Ecstasy" [Hearts of the Anemoi Series, Book 4] by Laura Kaye
Imprint : Entangled Publishing : Select
Audience : Paranormal/Fantasy Romance
Novel length : 368 pages
Format : Paperback
Publication Released Date : April 22, 2014
Author's Book Cover :

Author's Book Description :

Annalise Fallston made peace with postponing her big-city dreams to care for her ill father, but lately she’s been filled with a restlessness not even her beloved painting dispels. Worse, the colors don’t speak to her as they always have, and all her efforts produce dark, foreboding images of a dangerous man and a terrifying future.

Devlin Eston, black-souled son of the evil Anemoi Eurus, is the only one who can thwart his father’s plan to overthrow the Supreme God of Wind and Storms. But first, Dev must master the unstable powers he’s been given. Distrusted and shunned by his own divine family, he never expected to find kindness and passion in the arms of a mortal.

But Devlin’s love puts Annalise in the path of a catastrophic storm, and in the final Armageddon showdown between the Anemoi and Eurus, sacrifices will be made, hearts broken, and lives changed forever...or lost.

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

About the Author :

Laura is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of over a dozen books in paranormal and contemporary romance. Growing up, Laura’s large extended family believed in the supernatural, and family lore involving angels, ghosts, and evil-eye curses cemented in Laura a life-long fascination with storytelling and all things paranormal. She lives in Maryland with her husband, two daughters, and cute-but-bad dog, and appreciates her view of the Chesapeake Bay every day.

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

My Previous Mention(s) of this Author's Books/Characters : When & Where Are You? Thursdays: North of Need | Winter Themed Books To Warm You Up During the 2011 Holiday Season

** Be sure to add it to your TBR pile on Goodreads! **
Find Laura Kaye :

• Laura Kaye - Website
• Laura Kaye - Blog
• Twitter
• Facebook
• Newsletter SignUp
• Goodreads
• East of Ecstasy : Amazon.com | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository

Idolizing In: A Hummingbird Christmas by Karen Foley | #BookReview @karenefoley @TulePublishing #readztule

- This was an ARC Read -
Available Formats through Amazon: Kindle Edition & Paperback
File Size: 1847 KB | Paperback Print Length: 216 Pages
Publication Date: October 17, 2017 | Language: English
Publisher: Tule Publishing : Montana Born Books
ASIN: B074ZR23QP | ISBN-10: 1947636596 | ISBN-13: 978-1947636590
Main Genre(s): Holiday Romance, Contemporary Romance
Format Jess Read This Novel In: eBook - MOBI File
Jess Obtained This Book Through: NetGalley

"A Hummingbird Christmas" [Glacier Creek Series, Prequel / A Glacier Creek Novel] by Karen Foley

Author's Book Description : Cole Tanner doesn’t do Christmas.

Abandoned as a child on Christmas Eve, he has no use for the holiday season. When his best friend’s widow arrives in Glacier Creek, Montana, determined to give her small daughter the fairy-tale Christmas she’s dreaming of, Cole is prepared to dislike her. He isn’t prepared for Joy and her daughter to insinuate their way into his life—and his heart. But when tragedy strikes, he needs a Christmas miracle to fulfill the one wish he never knew he wanted.

Joy Holliday believes in miracles.

She sees hummingbirds everywhere, and believes they are tiny messengers from Heaven. Despite losing her husband four years ago, she is determined not to dwell on the past, but to look to the future. Her entire world revolves around taking care of her daughter, Piper, and ensuring she has a magical Christmas. In Glacier Creek she finds Cole, a man still smarting from the wounds of his past, determined to keep happiness at arms’ length. Can she save Christmas and show him the promise of a future with her?

My Book Review : 5 out of 5 stars!! Joy's Christmas wish is to give her five-year-old daughter the best holiday ever. So, in hopes of a winter wonderland Christmas they head to her in-laws house in Montana where they find that everyone seems to need a bit of holiday magic....

Made the Grade: True Destiny Series, Book 5

Format: Kindle Edition | File Size: 684 KB | Release Date: December 16, 2014 | Publisher: Samhain Publishing | Obtained: Amazon.com | Originally Found Out About @ NetGalley

"Not Broken" [True Destiny Series, Book 5] by Dana Marie Bell

Author's Book Description : Genre: Paranormal Romance, Menage (M/M/F)
Length: Novella

Three hearts are stronger than the sum of their scars.

Slade Saeter endured centuries of torture, longing for the day could claim Magnus Tate and Sylvia Grimm as mates. Now freedom is his, but nightmares still plague this son of Loki, and he fears his lovers will believe him too fragile to bond.

Always attracted to both sexes, Magnus never thought he could have the woman of his dreams, not when she was broken by his own father, her heart shattered by Thor's infidelities and their ultimate divorce. But Slade’s determination gives him a glimmer of hope.

Never one to let anything keep her down for long, Sylvia has long since healed from her ex-husband’s betrayals. But accepting her own stepson as a bonded mate? While it’ s something she can wrap her body around, her heart is another story.

As three war-weary, damaged hearts slowly find balance among them, they form bonds of surprising strength. But with danger descending upon them with the fury of a Valkyrie, time is the one thing they may not have.

Warning: This title contains explicit sex, graphic language and only two people who know for sure if Slade really is hung like a horse. (They aren't talking.)

My Book Review : 3.5 out of 5 stars! This novel takes over where "Morgan’s Fate" (Book 4 of this series) left off, based around Slade (Sleipnir-Loki's son) healing with the one mate he's found--Magnus (Magni-Thor's son)--while trying to win over his other mate--Sylvia (Sif-Thor's ex-wife)--with Magnus' help. The love triangle happens in the middle of the constant war going on between Kir (with his followers) against his parents.

This is the first novel I've read within this series so I liked how it kept me in the loop of who's who and what they are up to so I didn't feel lost. In addition, I liked how Slade, Magnus, & Sylvia's relationship grew throughout this novel. Their relationship was sweetly written, yet highlighted with enough spicy scenes to keep you on your toes wanting more.

Another thing I liked was how it touches on all the previous characters so that you are updated with what is going on with them while keeping the pace of the rest of the novel. I'm very interested to see where this series will go next!

I recommend it to those who like paranormal and/or Norse mythology romances!

Purchase This Book and/or The Other Books From It's Series Here : Kobo : Very Much Alive (Book 1) | Kobo : Eye of the Beholder (Book 2) | Kobo : Howl for Me (Book 3) | FREE READ - Ms. Bell's Website : Just the Way You Are (Book 3.5) | Kobo : Morgan's Fate (Book 4) | Kobo : Not Broken (Book 5)


My Previous Review(s) for this Author : The Wallflower | Sweet Dreams | Dare To Believe | All For You

My Previous Mention(s) of this Author's Books/Characters : "Waiting On" Wednesday: Artistic Vision | Winter Themed Books To Warm You Up During the 2011 Holiday Season

Author's Novel Extras : Not Broken - Overview & Excerpt | Take What You Can Get | Contracts, Buy Links, and General Insanity | Just A Spoonful of Sugar... | NEW RELEASE: Not Broken

Author's Series Extras : True Destiny Series - Glossary | Very Much Alive - Overview & Excerpt | Eye of the Beholder - Overview & Excerpt | Howl for Me - Overview & Excerpt | Just the Way You Are - PDF Free Read | Morgan's Fate - Overview & Excerpt | Release of Eye of the Beholder, True Destiny Book 2

Book Teaser(s) :

Slade gently shoved him toward the door. “Now go make sure our other mate can come home.”
“Yes, sir.”
Slade laughed. “I like that. I’ll be herd stallion, you can be one of my mares.”
Morgan, the dick, began choking on his laughter.
“Ass. Hole.” Magnus grabbed hold of Morgan and dragged him toward the door. “Stop corrupting my mate.”
“Me?” Morgan was still laughing as they left the condo. “You have no one to blame but yourself for that one, brother.”
Magnus bit back his grin. No one else, indeed.
And that was just the way Magnus liked it. ~ within Chapter 2

Slade’s eyes went wide, and suddenly Sylvia found herself yanked to her feet along with Magnus. Slade was a lot stronger than he seemed. “Let’s go.”
Magnus was laughing as Slade dragged them into the bedroom. “Whoa there.”
Slade glared at him. “Did you just whoa me?”
Now Sylvia was giggling.
“You did not just whoa me,” Slade muttered, yanking Magnus’s shirt over his head.
“Yes, he did.” Sylvia laughed harder as Slade pushed Magnus down onto the bed.
“You are so going to pay for that.” Slade tugged Magnus’s pants off while Magnus watched indulgently.
“Yes, dear. Whatever you say, dear.” ~ within Chapter 8

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

Welcome to Small Business Saturday/Week

This is the 2nd year that I've done participated/held Small Business Saturday/Week and I'm hoping it'll be even more of a success. Yet this year it'll be a bit different because I've recently moved and to tell you the truth I haven't found any non-commercial/local stores that I have fallen in love with yet. Therefore, as today is Small Business Saturday I thought another way for me to support "small businesses" in a sense would be to support some INDIE AUTHORS and host some giveaways for YOU!

The giveaway items this year all vary ....

• Indie Authors/Publishers Donated Items --- from great novels/novellas to greeting cards
• Recommended Books --- these are books by Indie Authors that I have read this year and gave 5 out of 5 stars too

I hope everyone will be nice enough to support your local businesses today, this weekend and throughout the holiday season!!

Also -- I'd like to give a BIG THANK YOU to all of the authors who were willing to donate a book or item for a giveaway. Plus, a SPECIAL THANKS to Jenna Bennett, Kristine Cayne & Dana Delamar for wanting to do some guest posts for this event!!

I hope everyone will have a wonderful SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY!! And be sure to sign up for the GREAT Giveaways today and throughout this week!!

Best regards, Jess

The Giveaways!! :

This giveaway ends December 7, 2013 at midnight.

[Click the book titles to find out info about them or to read my review about them]

• A Smashwords ebook copy of "Picture Perfect" by Ella Fox to two randomly drawn people from Rafflecopter
• An Ebook copy--winner's choice from Jodi Redford's backlist to one randomly drawn person from Rafflecopter
• A Kindle ebook copy of "Catching the Bad Guy" by Marie Astor to three randomly drawn people from Rafflecopter
• "The North Poe" Christmas Boxed Cards from Jenna Bennett to one randomly drawn person from Rafflecopter
• Winner's Choice :: two books (total) from Kristine Cayne and/or Dana Delamar or 10% off any service from By Your Side Self-Publishing from Kristine Cayne & Dana Delamar to one randomly drawn person from Rafflecopter
• A Kindle ebook copy of "Every Night Forever" by R. E. Butler to one randomly drawn person from Rafflecopter
• A Kindle ebook copy of "Playing Games" by Jessica Clare to one randomly drawn person from Rafflecopter
• A Kindle ebook copy of "Indelible" by Bethany Lopez to one randomly drawn person from Rafflecopter
• A Kindle ebook copy of "Battlescars" by Sophie Monroe to one randomly drawn person from Rafflecopter
• A Kindle ebook copy of "Drive Me Crazy" by Marquita Valentine to one randomly drawn person from Rafflecopter
• A Kindle ebook copy of "Desire By Blood" by Melissa Schroeder to one randomly drawn person from Rafflecopter
• A Kindle ebook copy of "Darkness Awakened" by Katie Reus to one randomly drawn person from Rafflecopter

a Rafflecopter giveaway