Friday, January 9, 2015

Blog Tour - Feasted On: Finding Hope by Stacy Finz | Review & Kindle Fire HD6 Giveaway

Today I'm turning my blog over to Stacy Finz, with a review of her latest novel "Finding Hope," which is the SECOND novel in her Nugget Series!!

ALSO -- Be sure to check out the Kindle Fire HD6 GIVEAWAY below!! [Blog Tour will run from January 5 - 16, 2015 -- Giveaway will run from January 1 - 31, 2015]



- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Paperback - Pages: 306; Kindle Edition - File Size: 1177 KB | Release Date: January 5, 2015 | Publisher: Kensington Books : Lyrical Press | Obtained: Pump Up Your Book / NetGalley

"Finding Hope" [Nugget Series, Book 2] by Stacy Finz

Author's Book Description : The small mountain town of Nugget, California, is way off the beaten path. But somehow it helps the lost and lonely find a new beginning in life—and in love...

One solitary day at a time is the only way cookbook writer Emily Mathews can restart her life—and cope with consuming loss. Still, the former city girl is finding all kinds of odd inspiration and advice from Nugget's proudly eccentric residents on everything from new recipes to opening her heart again. Especially when it comes to her rugged rancher landlord ...

His no-drama new tenant is the first break Clay McCreedy has had in a long time. He's got his hands full enough dealing with his wife's scandalous death and his sons' unresolved grief. Clay can't help but be drawn to Emily's quiet understanding and strength. When their fragile trust turns into passionate healing, he longs for much more. And when both their pasts come calling, he’s determined not to walk away...

My Book Review : 4 out of 5 stars! A woman who is trying to overcome a tragic loss falls into another family's life who are dealing with their own issues; together they help heal past hurts in hope of moving onto a better future.

This novel reminded me a bit of Ms. Mallery's Fool's Gold Series because of its clicky-type town, the supportive people that live there, and how the novel has meaningful main and sub plots while really bringing in past characters too to update the readers on their lives. However, I was surprised by how deep Emily's personal story truly is, as it wasn't the type of topic I'd expect written about in a romance novel, yet I really liked how Ms. Finz got to the root of Emily's fears and showed you how she worked through them. It was very touching. In addition, while I really liked Emily & Clay's sweet friendship turning into a spicy romantic relationship I also enjoyed reading about Lina & Griffin's budding "too young for right now" romance. Both relationships growth over throughout this novel are well written and highly captivating! I especially liked how the way this novel is pretty open-ended so we might be able to read more about each relationship at a later date within the series (here's hoping).

It will be interesting if Justin's "premonition" about Hope will come true and if we (and Emily) will ever find out what really happened. I am very curious to see where this series will go and where "Second Chances" will lead us next!

I recommend this novel to those who enjoy contemporary romances that are based around tragic circumstances.

Purchase This Book and/or The Other Books From It's Series Here : Alibris : GOING HOME | Kobo : FINDING HOPE | Kobo : SECOND CHANCES


Author's Series Extras : Meet my character blog

Book Teaser(s) :
"Damn, woman, you can cook."
Those baby blues of hers, usually desolate as an ice storm, glittered like sapphires from the compliment. And in that instant he couldn't tear his eyes off of her. He just stared until she turned away.
"I'm trying to decide which one to put in the book. So if you have a favorite---"
"I like this one." He pointed with his fork, hoping to break the tension. "Don't be embarrassed, Emily. I was just noticing how pretty you are when you light up like that. Most of the time you look sad. I understand why. But when you're in the kitchen . . . like last time . . . making the cupcakes---" Clay took a breath. "Yeah, I'm making this worse, aren't I?"
She surprised him by laughing. "Probably a good time to change the subject." ~ within Chapter 10
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Stacy, then please check out her website.



About the Author :

Stacy Finz is an award-winning journalist. After more than seventeen years covering notorious serial killers, naked-tractor-driving farmers, fanatical foodies, aging rock stars and weird Western towns for the San Francisco Chronicle, she figured she finally had enough material to launch a career writing fiction. In 2012 she won the Daphne du Maurier Award for unpublished single-title mystery/suspense. She lives in Berkeley, California with her husband.



Giveaway(s)!! :


Click Here For More Giveaway Info -- PURCHASE FINDING HOPE FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A KINDLE FIRE!


ALSO -- Be sure to follow the tour around the other blog sites!



Find Stacy Finz :

Thursday, January 8, 2015

The Baron’s Betrayal by Callie Hutton | Interview & Spreading the Word

Today I'm turning my blog over to Callie Hutton, who I interviewed about her novel "The Baron’s Betrayal," which is the FORTH novel in her Marriage Mart Mayhem Series!!



My Q&A with Callie Hutton :

Jess : What books did you enjoy reading while growing up?

Callie : I read so much as a child, it’s hard to remember any particular books. But one book I do remember is Binnie Latches On, which was about a girl who felt out of sync with her family and to some extent, her friends. Since I was feeling the same way at the time, it made an impression on me.

Jess : Please describe Tristan, from "The Baron’s Betrayal," in one to two sentences.

Callie : Tristan is suffering from injuries received while serving in the Royal Navy and has decided to keep himself hidden from his wife who thinks he is dead. He is stubborn and strong, even though he views himself as being weak.

Jess : Which of your characters would you most & least like to invite to dinner, from which book and why?

Callie : The heroine in "The Duke’s Quandary," Penelope, is who I would love to have dinner with. She is socially inept, but would always keep you laughing. The one I would like to see the least is Jason’s cousin from "The Elusive Wife." He is a sneaky, mean person.

Jess : Which usually comes first for you, the character(s) story or the idea for the novel?

Callie : It depends. But I would say for the most part, the story comes to me before the characters. Except in "The Duke’s Quandary." I wrote that book for Penelope.

Jess : Is there any differences and/or similarities between Marion from "The Baron’s Betrayal" novel and Rosemarie from your "Daniel’s Desire" novel?

Callie : Marion is a woman who was born to a rich Duke and Duchess. Her life had been one of opulence, although due to her parents natures, she was not spoiled or led to feel she was better than anyone else. And when she needed to be strong and tenacious, she certainly has no problem with it. Rosemarie in "Daniel’s Desire" was sold in marriage to a man quite a bit older than her and has lived and worked—very hard—on a farm. She is a very strong woman who thinks she doesn’t need a man.

Jess : Out of all of the secondary characters within "The Baron’s Betrayal," do you have one or two favorites so far? If so, who are they and can you tell us why?

Callie : Tristan’s valet, Ellis is quite outspoken for his position, but his repartees with Tristan are very funny. And, of course, Penelope from "The Duke’s Quandary" makes an appearance with her funny scene.

Jess : What was your favorite chapter (or part) to write and why?

Callie : My favorite part to write was when Tristan stepped up to the plate at the end, but you’ll have to read it see why.

Jess : In regards to "The Baron’s Betrayal," if you could write it all over again, would you change anything about it?

Callie : No

Jess : How many books have you written? Which is your favorite and why?

Callie : I’ve written 17 books, including the next one in the Marriage Mart Mayhem series--"The Highlander’s Choice." That should be an August or September release.

Jess : Do you have any other projects in the works? If so, can you share a little of your current work with us?

Callie : I am just starting the next book in my Oklahoma Lovers series, "Anyplace But Here." For those who are familiar with that series, this is Hunter’s story, the younger nephew in "A Run For Love."



About the Author :

The USA Today best selling author of The Elusive Wife writes both Western Historical and Regency romance, with “historic elements and sensory details” (The Romance Reviews). She also pens an occasional contemporary or two. Callie lives in Oklahoma with several rescue dogs, two adult children, and daughter-in-law (thankfully all not in the same house), and her top cheerleader husband of thirty-eight years. She also currently waits with bated breath for the birth of twin grandsons. Callie loves to hear from readers, and would welcome you as a “friend” on Facebook. You can contact her through her website: www.calliehutton.com, or write her directly at calliehutton11@gmail.com



"The Baron’s Betrayal"
[Marriage Mart Mayhem Series, Book 4] by Callie Hutton

Author's Book Description :
    Lady Marion Tunstall has just now re-entered society after two years of mourning her beloved husband who was killed in an explosion while serving in the Royal Navy.

    Tristan, Lord Tunstall has purposely kept himself hidden from Marion. It had been his desire to allow her to continue to think he was dead so she could marry again and not be burdened with a damaged husband.

    What happens when a determined woman faces the ultimate rejection from the only man she has ever loved?

This book is available to order on :

Amazon.com | Kobo | Barnes and Noble | All Romance

** Be sure to add it to your TBR pile on Goodreads! **



Find Callie Hutton :

Tuesday, January 6, 2015

Blog Tour - Suicide Forest by Jeremy Bates | Spreading the Word

Today I'm turning my blog over to Jeremy Bates author of "Suicide Forest," which is the FIRST book in his World's Scariest Places Series!! [Blog Tour will run from January 5 – 30, 2015]



"Suicide Forest"
[World's Scariest Places Series, Book 1] by Jeremy Bates

Author's Book Description :
    Just outside of Tokyo lies Aokigahara, a vast forest and one of the most beautiful wilderness areas in Japan...and also the most infamous spot to commit suicide in the world. Legend has it that the spirits of those many suicides are still roaming, haunting deep in the ancient woods.

    When bad weather prevents a group of friends from climbing neighboring Mt. Fuji, they decide to spend the night camping in Aokigahara. But they get more than they bargained for when one of them is found hanged in the morning—and they realize there might be some truth to the legends after all.

This book is available to order on :

Amazon.com (e-Book) | Amazon.com (Paperback)

** Be sure to add it to your TBR pile on Goodreads! **

Author's Book Trailer :



About the Author :

Jeremy Bates is the author of the #1 Amazon bestseller White Lies, which was nominated for the 2012 Foreword Book of the Year Award. He has spent the last ten years traveling the world, visiting more than thirty countries. He has lived in Canada, the United States, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and the Philippines. Bates is a graduate of the University of Western Ontario with a degree in English literature and philosophy. He is an active member of Horror Writers Association, Mystery Writers of America, International Thriller Writers, Inc., and Crime Writers of Canada.



Find Jeremy Bates :

Texas Cowboy Blog Tour Featuring Carolyn Brown & Linda Broday | Guest Post, Spreading the Word & Sourcebooks Casablanca Western Romance Bundle Giveaway

Today I'm turning my blog over to Carolyn Brown & Linda Broday for their Texas Cowboy Blog Tour, who are talking about their latest novels!!

ALSO -- Be sure to check out Rafflecopter at the bottom of this post to be able to sign up for this blog stop's GIVEAWAY!! [Blog Tour & Giveaway will run from January 5 - 9, 2015]



Texas Cowboy Blog Tour Featuring Carolyn Brown and Linda Broday

They are tough, hard working, and have the manners their mama gave them. Is it no wonder that readers are in love with the ultimate hero — cowboys. Today we’ve got Western romance authors Carolyn Brown and Linda Broday to explain exactly what makes a cowboy hero ... by finishing this sentence: “A cowboy’s never fully dressed until he puts on his....”

Linda Broday: ...gun belt and Colt. Danger always rides rancher Cooper Thorne’s trail. The oldest of his blood brothers, is the hero in "Texas Mail Order Bride," Cooper is prepared to defend himself and the people he loves at all times. He’s seen what happens to men who let down their guard and he’s not about to let that happen to him. The West is a dangerous place full of peril at every turn. Men die who don’t respect the lawless land. Though he doesn’t seek violence, he’s accepted that it often comes. So does trouble of other kinds. As a rancher, he’s had to kill rattlesnakes, coyotes and bobcats that threaten his herd and often an animal that breaks its leg. So he has many uses for the gun. It’s a necessary part of a rancher’s life and he’s accepted that.

Carolyn Brown: ...charm. Plain and simple. Sawyer’s mama, in "The Trouble with Texas Cowboys," taught him well when she told him that his handsome looks would take him far in life. That his swagger would draw the women’s eye for a second look. And that his pretty eyes could and probably would get him in trouble more than once before he settled down. But that pure old charm would open doors that nothing else ever could.



"The Trouble with Texas Cowboys"
[Burnt Boot, Texas Series, Book 2] by Carolyn Brown

Author's Book Description :
    Can a girl ever have too many cowboys?

    No sooner does pint-sized spitfire Jill Cleary set foot on Fiddle Creek Ranch than she finds herself in the middle of a hundred-year-old feud. Quaid Brennan and Tyrell Gallagher are both tall, handsome, and rich...and both are courting Jill to within an inch of her life. She's doing her best to give these feuding ranchers equal time-too bad it's dark-eyed Sawyer O'Donnell who makes her blood boil and her hormones hum...

This book is available to order on :

Amazon.com (e-Book) | Amazon.com (Paperback) | Kobo (eBook) | Barnes & Noble | iBooks

** Be sure to add it to your TBR pile on Goodreads! **



"Texas Mail Order Bride"
[The Bachelors of Battle Creek Series, Book 1] by Linda Broday

Author's Book Description :
    Rancher Cooper Thorne thinks his life is finally on an even keel. But when mail-order bride Delta Dandridge steps off the stagecoach and claims he sent for her, he scrambles to set her straight. The tempestuous woman makes him see red and also challenges all his vows to remain a bachelor. It turns out Delta Dandridge is going to set Cooper Thorne straight about a few things...

This book is available to order on :

Amazon.com (e-Book) | Amazon.com (Paperback) | Kobo (eBook) | Barnes & Noble | iBooks

** Be sure to add it to your TBR pile on Goodreads! **

Author's Book Trailer :



About the Authors :

Carolyn Brown is a New York Times bestselling author with more than sixty books published, and credits her eclectic family for her humor and writing ideas. Carolyn was born in Texas but grew up in southern Oklahoma where she and her husband, Charles, a retired English teacher, make their home. They have three grown children and enough grandchildren to keep them young.

My Previous Review(s) for Carolyn Brown : Just a Cowboy and His Baby | How to Marry a Cowboy

My Previous Guest Post(s) by this Author : Three Cowboys Means One Too Many... - January 2015

My Previous Mention(s) of Carolyn Brown's Books/Characters : Teaser Tuesdays: Just a Cowboy and His Baby | Best Book Couples -- Happy Valentine's Day 2013 | Blog Tour - The Trouble with Texas Cowboys by Carolyn Brown | Guest Post, Spreading the Word, & Sourcebooks Casablanca Western Romance Bundle Giveaway

A New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, Linda Broday writes western historical romance. She lives in the Texas Panhandle on the Llano Estacado where the American Indian and Comancheros once roamed. She’s always been fascinated with cowboys and the American West way of life because to her these men and women embody strength. Her desire to keep history alive is what drives her to write unforgettable characters.




Giveaways!! :

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Soo .... COMMENT & TWEET on/about this post!! And you could WIN!! =0)

ALSO -- Be sure to follow the tour around the other blog sites!



Find Carolyn Brown :

Find Linda Broday :

Blog Tour - Fueled By Lust: Maxim by Celeste Prater | Spreading the Word & Gift Card Giveaway

Today I'm turning my blog over to Celeste Prater author of "Fueled By Lust: Maxim," which happens to be the SIXTH BOOK in her Fueled By Lust Series!!

ALSO -- Be sure to check out Rafflecopter at the bottom of this post to be able to sign up for this blog stop's GIVEAWAY!! [Blog Tour & Giveaway will run TODAY -- January 6, 2015]



"Fueled By Lust: Maxim"
[Fueled By Lust Series, Book 6] by Celeste Prater

Author's Book Description :
    [A Siren Classic Erotic Sci-Fi Romance – Book 6]

    A simple turn of your head can change your life forever. That’s what Maxim Telarius will soon realize when he spots a female cracking up passengers at an airport counter. What he didn’t expect was to find his potential mate when the counter comedian inevitably trips over a suitcase and practically lands in his lap. One innocent touch and he’s fighting through a powerful mating surge and begging her not to leave. One blink and she could be lost to him forever.

    Skylar Grey is fleeing for her life with a mysterious object stuffed in her purse and no idea where’s she heading. When she spots a gorgeous hunk she just dreamed about, what’s a girl to do? Watching the guy twist on the floor in agony wasn’t what she envisioned. Should she run, or stay to help someone that seems extremely important to her survival?

    Book 6 in the Fueled By Lust Series doesn’t disappoint on the erotic, set your hair on fire expectations of the Insedi male.

    Reader note: Series best read in sequence

Book Series Links :

Bookstrand | Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Kobo | iTunes

** Be sure to add it to your TBR pile on Goodreads! **



About the Author :

Celeste was born and raised in a small town between Dallas/Fort Worth and Austin. Wanting to see more than her small Texas town, she joined the Marines, which satisfied her craving to see more of the U.S. and her drive to see if she could be one of the few and the proud.

A firm believer in educating the mind, Celeste has achieved several advanced degrees, the latest being a master’s of science.

Her true love is writing erotic romance, especially about alien hunks that know how to treat their females.

Drusus, Severus, Cato, Lucien, Caelius, Maxim and many more have swirled in her dreams until she had to bring them to life and allow them to find love within the pages of the Fueled by Lust book series.

Book 1 "DRUSUS" was nominated as Top 5 Finalist and placed 3rd in the 2014 RWA Passionate Ink’s 9th Annual Passionate Plume Book Contest in Erotic SciFi/Fantasy Category. Book 2 "SEVERUS" achieved BEST BOOK review rating and won April 2014 BOOK OF THE MONTH Reader Poll at LONG AND SHORT REVIEWS. Book 3 "CATO" won the May/June 2014 and "LUCIEN" the September 2014 BOOK OF THE MONTH Reader Poll at LONG AND SHORT REVIEWS. All currently released books in the series have made it into the Top 5 Bestseller Lists at Bookstrand.com within days of release as well as making it into the Top 10 Hottest New Releases in Erotic Science Fiction on Amazon.




Book Excerpt :

Just as he’d imagined, the ample rounded globes were perfect—firm, smooth, and ready for his hands to explore. She continued to turn and faced him again. One eyebrow lifted. Her voice was low, yet strong.

“I hope you like big butts, because that’s what I have. No excuses, it is what it is.”

He lowered his voice.

“Nilum autem perfectio, mellis. Nothing but perfection, sweetness. You made my knees wobble.”

She blinked a few times, and he saw her ribcage quickly expand and deflate. He sat on the edge of the bed and motioned her over.

“Come here.”

She approached and stood still as a statue in front of him. He reached out, gently captured her narrow waist, and slid his palms downward. He loved how curvy her hips were. He leaned forward and placed a soft kiss to her belly. The punch of her pear-scented desire hit him hard. He fought the need to flip her on the bed and totally consume her, but he was far from ending the exploration. Maxim looked up to her expectant eyes, gently twisted her around until she faced the mirror across from the bed, and pulled her down to his lap.

“Lean back, baby. I want to feel your skin on mine.” He heard her sigh mix with his as their flesh joined. She was warm, soft, and pliable. He bit his lip when his cock lay trapped between their bodies. He undulated his hips once and shivered at the feel of it sliding along the seam of her ass. He reached forward, caught the inside of her thighs, and lifted them to drape on the outside of his. Gently, he spread his knees and widened her legs. He palmed both of her breasts and whispered close to her neck.

“Look at yourself, Skylar. I’ve never seen anything more beautiful in my life.”



Giveaways!! :

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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

ALSO -- Be sure to follow the tour around the other blog sites!



Find Celeste Prater :

Monday, January 5, 2015

Blog Tour - Sunsinger by Robyn Bachar | Interview, Spreading the Word & Gift Card Giveaway

Today I'm turning my blog over to Robyn Bachar, who I interviewed about her novel "Sunsinger," which is the third novel in her Cy’ren Rising Series!!

ALSO -- Be sure to check out Rafflecopter at the bottom of this post to be able to sign up for this blog stop's GIVEAWAY(s)!! [Blog Tour & Giveaway will run from December 29, 2014 - January 23, 2015]



My Q&A with Robyn Bachar :

Jess : What books did you enjoy reading while growing up?

Robyn : All of them. ;-) Among my favorites were Nancy Drew and the Babysitters’ Club series. I also became addicted to Star Trek: The Next Generation books and the Star Wars Expanded Universe.

Jess : Please describe your Malcolm, from "Sunsinger," in one to two sentences.

Robyn : Malcolm is a former slave and a data miner. He accesses information systems through a data jack embedded at the base of his skull, allowing him to search and retrieve data at the speed of thought.

Jess : Which of your characters would you most & least like to invite to dinner, from which book and why?

Robyn : I would invite Mac from the Bad Witch books, because he has awesome cooking skills and would bring a great dessert. I would not want to invite Zachary Harrison from the Bad Witch books to dinner, because that never ends well.

Jess : Please describe "Sunsinger" in 75 words or less.

Robyn : "Sunsinger" is an erotic space opera romance with epic space battles and a f/m/m ménage.

Jess : Is there any differences and/or similarities between Carmen from your "Nightfall" novel and Andelynn from your "Sunsinger" novel?

Robyn : Carmen and Andee are both tough warriors who wouldn’t hesitate to charge into battle to protect their mates. Carmen is an admiral’s daughter, and it was always expected that she would join the Alliance navy and follow in his footsteps. Andee, on the other hand, is the daughter of a Cy’ren lord, and was expected to marry the lord of another house. She learned her combat training in secret, because it is unusual for a woman to be a soldier in Cy’ren society.

Jess : What sparked the idea for "Sunsinger?"

Robyn : From the moment that Lord Degalen arrived in "Nightfall" I knew that he needed his own book, and as soon as Malcolm showed up in "Morningstar" I knew that the two of them needed to be together. Andee is their perfect match.

Jess : What is the most funny thing one of your characters, from "Sunsinger," said or did?

Robyn : Commander Soth has the best lines in the series. (I’m so tempted to do a second trilogy just so he can have his own book.) I think my favorite line of his in the book is in this exchange: “This planet smells funny,” Soth muttered as they emerged from the limo. “It smells like money,” Malcolm replied. “Oh. That explains why I didn’t recognize it.”


Jess : What was your favorite chapter (or part) to write in a novel and why?

Robyn : I love writing the first and second acts. The third act, not so much. I agonize over endings.

Jess : In regards to "Sunsinger," if you could write it all over again, would you change anything about it?

Robyn : I’m fortunate to have a great editor, so I think the book turned out very well.

Jess : Out of all of the secondary characters within "Sunsinger," do you have one or two favorites so far? If so, who are they and can you tell us why?

Robyn : Yup, Commander Soth and Commander Maysen. My muse considers both of them to be good sequel bait. ;-) I have a few ideas on who should keep them in line romantically.

Jess : How many books have you written? Which is your favorite and why?

Robyn : I have nine books contracted with Samhain. I don’t know if I could pick a favorite, because they’re all fun in their own way.

Jess : Do you have any other projects in the works? If so, can you share a little of your current work with us?

Robyn : My next release will be available in March. It’s called "Bite Me," and it’s a snarky, spicy post-zombie-apocalypse f/f/m ménage.

Jess : Do you have a favorite aspect of winter or tradition in your family during winter/New Years season that you’d like to share with us?

Robyn : I’m known for my Christmas cookies. I bake an enormous amount each year, and I give them to friends and family as gifts. I’m not allowed into the family Christmas party unless I bring cookies.

Jess : What cartoon character best represents your personal philosophy?

Robyn : Hmm. I do identify with Ursula from The Little Mermaid, except that I torment my characters instead of mer-people.

Jess : If someone wrote a biography about you, what do you think the title should be?

Robyn : It wouldn’t be a very interesting book. Probably something like, "Give Me Coffee or I Start Killing Characters."

Jess : List 3 books you just recently read and would recommend?

Robyn : "Think of England" by K. J. Charles was very good. "Havoc," the second book in the Dred Chronicles by Ann Aguirre was also awesome (it’s a spin-off from her Sirantha Jax series, which was sooooo good). I also recommend "Fortune’s Pawn" by Rachel Bach (which reminds me that I need to read the rest of that series).



About the Author :

Robyn Bachar enjoys writing stories with soul mates, swords, spaceships, vampires, and gratuitous violence against the kitchen sink. Her paranormal romance Bad Witch series, historical paranormal romance series Bad Witch: The Emily Chronicles, and spicy space opera romance trilogy Cy’ren Rising are available from Samhain Publishing. Her books have finaled in PRISM Contest for Published Authors, the Passionate Plume Contest, and twice in the EPIC eBook Awards.

As a gamer, Robyn has spent many hours rolling dice, playing rock-paper-scissors, and slaying creatures in mmorpgs.


My Previous Review(s) for this Author : Sunsinger

My Previous Mention(s) of this Author's Books/Characters : Teaser Tuesday: Sunsinger



"Sunsinger"
[Cy’ren Rising Series, Book 3] by Robyn Bachar

Author's Book Description :
    Her desire unites them. Her secret could destroy them all.

    The lord.

    The sole survivor of the Sunsinger massacre, Lord Degalen Fairren spends his days reading tales of the family he never knew. When a rival house threatens to enslave Cyprena, Galen is forced to pull his nose out of his books and enter into an alliance with House Morningstar, and a dangerous mission to save his world.

    The assassin.

    Lady Andelynn Harrow isn’t House Morningstar’s eldest or prettiest daughter, but she is the deadliest. After her father’s murder, Andee must defend her new house and mate—the shy, reluctant Galen—but every battle risks revealing her terrible secret.

    The slave.

    Malcolm gets his first taste of freedom when the Cy’ren recruit him to locate the cure to a deadly virus—and feels the burn of desire for Galen, the lord he can never have, and for Andee, who awakens memories of a long-lost first love.

    The danger they face fuels the heat between them, but with Cyprena’s fate hanging in the balance, the race to find the cure could come with devastating costs.

    Warning: Contains a blushing, virgin lord, a sexy geek, and an empathic assassin who always brings lube on a mission.

My Book Review :
    4 out of 5 stars! Follow Andelynn (Andee) as she uses all of her skills to help protect her new mate(s), prove to Degalen (Galen) that there is more to life then following the old stingy rules, and opens her heart to the possibility of a better future for herself then she originally planned. For this being the first novel in this series that I've read I liked how it could be read as a standalone novel while it still brings in the series' previous main characters in a way that the reader stays up-to-date about them and still staying relevant to the action going on. This thrilling fast-paced sci-fi romance hooks you from the beginning. [READ MY FULL REVIEW]

This book is available to order on :

Amazon.com | Kobo | Barnes and Noble | iTunes

** Be sure to add it to your TBR pile on Goodreads! **



Book Excerpt :

“Outer door open,” Loren announced.

The ship’s thrusters kicked into full power and the Talon II shot through the portal, spurring the ship’s song from a steady adagio to an allegro. The Talon II turned and accelerated into the nearby ruins for cover as their sensors scanned the ships in orbit. Twenty large ships, and three squadrons of one-man fighters.

“Malcolm,” Galen said, his voice calm but stern.

“Right, right. Infiltrating Syndicate communications network.” Malcolm pinged the orbiting ships, searching for ways past their security. They identified as mercenary ships, each with variations on Syndicate programming. Piece of cake. Malcolm had been cracking Syndicate codes since he was ten years old, even before he’d become a data miner with an uplink jack planted at the base of his skull.

“Enemy fighters have scrambled and are moving on our position,” Loren warned.

“Acknowledged, Lieutenant,” Captain Hawke said. “I’m keeping the weapons’ power diverted to shields and engines. We’ll try to outrun them as long as possible.”

“Morningstar squadron is holding in escort formation,” Andee said. The captain had allowed her on the bridge to monitor the fighters, but Malcolm wished she could have sat with him. Andee had a knack for keeping him calm.

Closing his eyes, Malcolm filtered their conversation out, trusting the crew to their business as he focused on his. He zeroed in on the lead ship as his entry point to their network, and then began picking at its security code like plucking at the strings of a harp, trying to find the right melody.



Giveaway!! :
a Rafflecopter giveaway

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

ALSO -- Be sure to follow the tour around the other blog sites!



Find Robyn Bachar :

Sunday, January 4, 2015

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.

Friday, January 2, 2015

Blog Tour - Made the Grade: A Taste of Merlot by Heather Heyford | Review & e-Book Copy Giveaway

Today I'm turning my blog over to Heather Heyford, with a review of her latest novel "A Taste of Merlot," which is the second novel in her Napa Wine Heiresses Series!!

ALSO -- Be sure to check out Rafflecopter at the bottom of this post to be able to sign up for this blog stop's GIVEAWAY(s)!! [Blog Tour & Giveaway will run TODAY -- January 2, 2015]



- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Paperback - Pages: 187; Kindle Edition - File Size: 1196 KB | Release Date: January 5, 2015 | Publisher: Lyrical Press | Obtained: Goddess Fish Promotions / NetGalley

"A Taste of Merlot" [The Napa Wine Heiresses Series, Book 2] by Heather Heyford

Author's Book Description : Raise your glass and join Heather Heyford as she pours a second serving in her series following these headstrong wine heiresses in their quest to strike out on their own...

Merlot St. Pierre is struggling to break free from her family name. Her college classmates whisper behind her back that her passion for jewelry design is little more than a hobby, since she’ll always have her father’s fortune. But Meri is determined to prove them wrong, and with the help of a handsome jewelry buyer, she just may taste her first sip of success—as long as she can hide who she really is...

Mark Newman’s family owns a chain of high-end jewelry stores, and he’s working hard to get out from under his aunt’s thumb and prove he has a good eye and a head for business. He’s certain Meri’s designs could be the next big thing, but he’ll have to convince her that she can use her famous last name to her advantage. As their business partnership takes root, an attraction begins to flourish—but they’ll both find that love, like wine, takes time to perfect...

My Book Review : 3.5 out of 5 stars! Two people, both from famous families, find each through jewelry and learn more about themselves then they could have ever hoped for, now if they’ll only trust each other with all their past secrets everything should be fine.

This novel I found to be more “smoke and mirrors” when it came to Merlot (Meri) and Mark’s past secrets because of the way they are laid out for the reader. Yet, because of those secrets and how they are displayed made me intrigued for more and more. Nevertheless, I enjoyed with how Meri and Mark meet, interact, and come into their relationship. I especially enjoyed how Meri dealt with her jealousy issues when it came to Mark working with her archenemy. Plus, to top it off I really liked Meri’s sisters and Mark’s friends since they lightened up this novel just enough to like the main characters that much more.

It makes me intrigued to see where else to this series will go. I recommend this novel to those who like contemporary romances!

-- On a side note --

The only character I say for a fact that I didn't like was Meri's father Xavier St. Pierre because he might "take care" of his daughters but I'm not sure he really cares for them or their feelings.

Purchase This Book and/or The Other Books From It's Series Here : Alibris : A TASTE OF CHARDONNAY | Kobo : A TASTE OF CHARDONNAY | Kobo : A TASTE OF MERLOT | Kobo : A TASTE OF SAUVIGNON


Author's Novel Extras : Pinterest: "A Taste of Merlot" | BLOG TOURS

Author's Series Extras : The Napa Wine Heiresses Series - Overview | Pinterest: "A Taste of Chardonnay" | Pinterest: "A Taste of Sauvignon" | Pinterest: "A Taste of Sake" | Meet Ryder McBride from A Taste of Chardonnay!

Book Teaser(s) :
The first time he'd called, he'd been told the professor he needed to speak to was already gone for the semester break. Mark had clearly identified himself as a buyer from Harrington's. Tried to sweet-talk the receptionist into understanding that all he wanted to do was help Gilty advance in her career, but nothing he said would budge her. She was sorry, but she was not permitted to release personal information of any student.
Now, when he'd finally gotten through to Gilty's returning jewelry prof only to hear that the student in question was no longer enrolled in the school, Labor Day had come and gone.
His long-simmering frustration had boiled over, leading him to shout questions at the person on the other end of the phone. The answer had been a click and a dial tone. No surprise, there. After all his stalking, they had him pegged as a nut job.
Greaaaat. ~ within Chapter 5
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Heather, then please check out her website.



About the Author :

Born in the Northeast, Heather Heyford learned to walk and talk in Texas, and then moved to England. (“Ya’ll want some scones?”) While in Europe, Heather was forced by her cruel parents to spend Saturdays in the leopard vinyl back seat of their Peugeot, motoring from one medieval pile to the next for the lame purpose of ‘learning something.’ What she soon learned was how to allay the boredom by stashing a Cosmo under the seat. Now a recovering teacher, Heather writes love stories, feeds hardboiled eggs to suburban foxes, and makes art in the Mid-Atlantic. See more at HeatherHeyford.com, or visit me on facebook, twitter, and pinterest.



Book Excerpt :

“Dammit, Merlot. Stop. Let’s talk. Not about business. About us.”
Her hand stilled on her door handle momentarily, and then she angled her lithe body to slide in, disappearing from view.
Before she could lock him out, Mark yanked open the passenger side and bent to peer in at her.
“If you drive away now, we’ll both be sorry.” He wouldn’t get in her car against her will. But he still wasn’t ready to let her end things like this.
Instead of reaching for the ignition button, she slumped back in her seat.
“Can I get in?”
She hesitated, then gave the briefest of nods.
He climbed in beside her. For a moment they sat motionless, staring through the windshield at the multicolored neon glow of shop signs punctuating the night sky of the quiet town.
When he spoke again, his voice was a few decibels lower, and he’d managed to force calm into it despite his near panic over almost losing her.
“Did you think I could just walk away? Tonight was about more than the orders. At least, for me it was.” He looked her way, his agitation rearing up again. “I was sold on your talent from the first time I saw your work, back in early June. I spent all summer—all summer, Meri—searching high and low for you, making phone calls, trolling the Internet, never dreaming that when I finally found you, you were going to look like—like this.” He strained to see her expression in the dimness, desperate for a crumb of understanding. “Once we started talking, it kept getting better and better. Jeezus, you’re massively talented. . . . You’re smart. . . .”
She was practically perfect. There wasn’t a damn thing wrong with her. . . .
Get a grip, Mark. He took a steadying breath. Nothing wrong, except a stubborn streak fifty miles long. The distance from San Francisco to Napa, his town to hers.
He strained in the darkness to study her profile. His voice had gotten loud again, he realized with dismay. He should just shut up now.
“I’m sorry. I can’t figure you out, but I won’t grill you anymore. Promise.” He offered her his hand, and she let out an ironic laugh at the absurdity of shaking hands after what they’d just done in her studio.
“We’ll stick to safe topics for the rest of the night, deal? The weather. The ’Niners. Whatever. You pick.”
She eyed him doubtfully.
“I swear. No more questioning your decisions.” He hoped he could stick to his word. He had to.
She conceded with a tiny hint of a smile. “Tonight was about more than the orders for me, too.”
To his immense relief, she met him in the middle of the seat.
He dipped his head to kiss her, and her soft, moist lips parted. His kiss was intended to be consoling, not the start of anything new. Until she nudged closer, encouraging him with her tongue, and powerless to resist her, he responded in spite of himself. Soon, their breathing became audible in the hushed silence of the enclosed space, the fogged windows adding to the illusion of privacy.
He hauled her across his lap, cradling her head in the crook of his right elbow. The sight of her chest rising and falling had him ready to go again…



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Find Heather Heyford :

Blog Tour - The Trouble with Texas Cowboys by Carolyn Brown | Guest Post, Spreading the Word, & Sourcebooks Casablanca Western Romance Bundle Giveaway

Today I'm turning my blog over to Carolyn Brown, who is talking about her latest novel and how the heroine deals with all the guys coming after her. =0)

ALSO -- Be sure to check out Rafflecopter at the bottom of this post to be able to sign up for this blog stop's GIVEAWAY!! [Blog Tour & Giveaway will run from January 1 - 30, 2015]



Three Cowboys Means One Too Many...

Good morning! Hope your holidays were wonderful and that you are enjoying the beginning of a brand new year. Thank you so much for inviting me to From Me to You... to talk about Sawyer and Jill’s story, "The Trouble with Texas Cowboys."

One sexy Texas cowboy is a hand full but add two more to that mix and you’ve got trouble. Jill hadn’t even had time to get settled in the bunkhouse on Fiddle Creek when a cowboy from each of the two feuding ranches came knocking on her door with an invitation to a family gathering the very next day. Quaid Brennan was the first and she was so startled she agreed to go to Sunday dinner with him. Then when Tyrell Gallagher showed up, she felt like she had to give him equal time. Number three was Sawyer O’Donnell, the cowboy her great aunt was forcing her to share the bunkhouse with but he wouldn’t be a problem. If they got past circling each other like wary feral cats, they might be friends but that was as far as it could go.

The first thing Jill decides is that she damn sure doesn’t want a Gallagher or a Brennan. Sure, they can offer her the moon and stars and either one can give her the biggest ranch in north Texas, but they want to court her for all the wrong reasons. She’s been led down the rich-cowboy daisy path in the not-so-distant past and she knows what kind of pain and heartache lies on that road. But Sawyer−now there’s a cowboy with his smart Irish wit and willingness to protect her that she might think about falling for...just not now.

Folks might think it’s difficult for romance to bloom in the middle of winter while feeding cows, taking care of a general store and spending every evening together at the Burnt Boot Bar and Grill. But flirting and fun can sure be found while a couple is out there in the snow or while they’re working together in close quarters behind a bar or maybe trying to make their way back home after being kidnapped. And a relationship can be born when two people need a partner desperately to keep from being swallowed up by the local feud.

"The Trouble with Texas Cowboys" is the second book in a four book series. There are two more coming so keep your boots on. "One Cowboy Too Many" is Leah Brennan and Rhett O’Donnell’s story. Rhett appears in Burnt Boot riding a big motorcycle with steer horns fixed to the front and Mavis Brennan doesn’t like him from day one but her granddaughter, Leah, is quite smitten with him even though she’s had her eye on forbidden fruit (a Gallagher of all things) for years. Then there’s a fourth book that brings Betsy Gallagher to the table as the heroine. My editor and I are still working on a title for that one.



"The Trouble with Texas Cowboys"
[Burnt Boot, Texas Series, Book 2] by Carolyn Brown

Author's Book Description :
    Can a girl ever have too many cowboys?

    No sooner does pint-sized spitfire Jill Cleary set foot on Fiddle Creek Ranch than she finds herself in the middle of a hundred-year-old feud. Quaid Brennan and Tyrell Gallagher are both tall, handsome, and rich...and both are courting Jill to within an inch of her life. She's doing her best to give these feuding ranchers equal time-too bad it's dark-eyed Sawyer O'Donnell who makes her blood boil and her hormones hum...

This book is available to order on :

Amazon.com (e-Book) | Amazon.com (Paperback) | Kobo (eBook) | Barnes & Noble | iBooks

** Be sure to add it to your TBR pile on Goodreads! **



About the Author :

Carolyn Brown is a New York Times bestselling author with more than sixty books published, and credits her eclectic family for her humor and writing ideas. Carolyn was born in Texas but grew up in southern Oklahoma where she and her husband, Charles, a retired English teacher, make their home. They have three grown children and enough grandchildren to keep them young.

My Previous Review(s) for this Author : Just a Cowboy and His Baby | How to Marry a Cowboy

My Previous Mention(s) of this Author's Books/Characters : Teaser Tuesdays: Just a Cowboy and His Baby | Best Book Couples -- Happy Valentine's Day 2013



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Find Carolyn Brown :
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