Monday, June 30, 2014

2014 100+ Reading Challenge

Check out my previous challenges:
2013 100+ Reading Challenge
2012 100+ Reading Challenge
2011 100+ Reading Challenge
2010 100+ Reading Challenge


Alrighty ... here's my personal challenge .. or more of a record of how many books I have read in 2014. Anyway ... here we go:

    -- January 2014 --
  1. "Heart of Stone" [Gargoyles Series, Book 1] by Christine Warren
  2. "Love Songs for the Road" by Farrah Taylor
  3. "Tamed By The Fire" [The Academy Series, Book 4] by Maxine Mansfield
  4. "Night's Promise" [Children of The Night Series, Book 6] by Amanda Ashley (aka Madeline Baker)
  5. "Spiraling" by Rachel Cross
  6. "Planet Mail" [Valhalla/Mail Call Series, Book 1] by Kate Pearce (aka Catherine Lloyd)
  7. "When a Lord Needs a Lady" by Jane Goodger (aka Jane Blackwood)
  8. "Midnight's Surrender" [Dark Warriors Series, Book 8.5] by Donna Grant
  9. "The Headmistress of Rosemere" [Whispers on the Moors Series, Book 2] by Sarah E. Ladd
  10. "Rockstar Daddy" [Decoy Series, Book 1] by K. T. Fisher
  11. "Love at Stake" [Fated Match Series, Book 1] by Victoria Davies
  12. -- February 2014 --
  13. "No Ifs, Ands, or Bears About It" [Grayslake Series, Book 1] by Celia Kyle
  14. "Nightmaster" [Nightsiders Series, Book 2] by Susan Krinard
  15. "A Kiss of Lies" [The Disgraced Lords Series, Book 1] by Bronwen Evans
  16. "In Bloom" [Brightside Series, Book 1] by Katie Delahanty
  17. "Croc and the Fox" [Furry United Coalition (F.U.C.) Series, Book 3] by Eve Langlais
  18. "Safe in the Tycoon's Arms" by Jennifer Faye
  19. "The Summer I Found You" by Jolene Perry
  20. "Playing To Win" by Shelley Munro
  21. -- March 2014 --
  22. "Princess Ever After" [The Royal Wedding Series, Book 2] by Rachel Hauck
  23. "Catching Heat" [Feeling the Heat Series, Book 3] by Alison Packard
  24. "His Ring Is Not Enough" by Maisey Yates
  25. "More Than She Expected" [Jersey Boys Series, Book 2] by Karen Templeton
  26. "Unraveled" [The Woodlands Series, Book 3] by Jen Frederick
  27. "An Heir of Uncertainty" by Alyssa Everett
  28. "Kissing with Fangs" [Flirting with Fangs Trilogy, Book 3] by Ashlyn Chase
  29. "An Accidental Affair" by Heather Boyd
  30. "The Virgin Witch and The Vampire King: Weddings Bells Times Four" [The Virgin Witch and The Vampire King Series, Book 1] by Trinity Blacio (aka Maria MoonStar)
  31. "Hajar's Hidden Legacy" by Maisey Yates
  32. "Be Were" [Southern Shifter Series & The Black Cougar Trilogy, Book 5] by Eliza Gayle
  33. "The Prince's Cinderella Bride" by Christine Rimmer
  34. "School Spirits" [School Spirits Series, Book 1] by Rachel Hawkins
  35. -- April 2014 --
  36. "A Season for Sin" [The Sinful Scoundrels Series, Book 0.5] by Vicky Dreiling
  37. "That Thing Called Love" [Razor Bay Series, Book 1] by Susan Andersen
  38. "Dragons Don't Cry" [Fire Chronicles, Book 1] by D'Elen McClain
  39. "Lady's Destiny" [Destiny Series, Book 1] by A. R. Von
  40. "A Baby for Easter" [Willow Park Series, Book 2] by Noelle Adams
  41. "The Alpha’s Heart" [Wilde Creek Series, Book 2] by R. E. Butler
  42. "Tangled Innocence" [Dante’s Circle Series, Book 4] by Carrie Ann Ryan
  43. "Stolen Kiss From a Prince" by Teresa Carpenter
  44. "Tweethearts" by Nicole Haddow
  45. "Bearing Up In Wolf Rock" [Wolf Rock Shifters Series, Book 2] by Carina Wilder
  46. "Unmasking Juliet" by Teri Wilson
  47. "Charming The Duke" by Holly Bush
  48. "Royally Lost" by Angie Stanton
  49. -- May 2014 --
  50. "Forged" [The World of Nightwalkers Series, Book 4] by Jacquelyn Frank (aka Jax)
  51. "Covet" [Vampire Erotic Theatre Romance, Book 1] by Felicity Heaton
  52. "The Guardian" [TALES OF THE DJINN Series, Book 1] by Emma Holly
  53. "Three Ways to Wicked" by Melinda Barron (aka Maura McMann)
  54. "Not His Mate" by M. L. Briers
  55. "Baby, Oh Baby!" by Robin Wells
  56. "Kissed by a Dark Prince" [Eternal Mates Series, Book 1] by Felicity Heaton
  57. "Play" [Stage Dive Series, Book 2] by Kylie Scott
  58. "Matched to a Billionaire" [Happily Ever After, Inc. Series, Book 1] by Kat Cantrell
  59. "Music of the Heart" [Runaway Train Series, Book 1] by Katie Ashley
  60. "Last Second Chance" [Second Chance Series, Book 1] by Caisey Quinn
  61. "Night Games" by Collette West
  62. "Before He Was Famous" [HotFlush/Starstruck Series, Book 1] by Becky Wicks
  63. "Three Weeks With A Bull Rider" [Oklahoma Nights Series, Book 3] by Cat Johnson
  64. "More Than Music" [Chasing the Dream Series, Book 1] by Elizabeth Briggs
  65. "The Mean Girl Apologies" by Stephanie Monahan
  66. -- June 2014 --
  67. "A Season of Change" [Seasons of Pinecraft Series, Book 1] by Lynette Sowell
  68. "Ransom" [Ransom Brothers Series, Book 1] by Rachel Schurig
  69. "Three Nights with a Rock Star" [Half-Life Series, Book 1] by Amber Lin & Shari Slade
  70. "The Harvester" [Girls Night Out Series, Book 1] by Lynn Crain
  71. "Coulda Been A Cowboy" [Dundee, Idaho Series, Book 8] by Brenda Novak
  72. "Hunk for the Holidays" by Katie Lane
  73. "Picture This" [A Marsden Novel, Book 2] by Jayne Denker
  74. "Stone Embrace" [Entwined Realms Series, Book 1.1] by Danielle Monsch
  75. "Taming the Country Star" [Hometown Heroes Series, Book 1] by Margo Bond Collins
  76. "The Fae Ring" [Highland Secrets Trilogy, Book 2] by C. A. Szarek
  77. "Unintentional Virgin" by A. J. Bennett
  78. "The Amish Nanny" [Brides of Amish Country Series, Book 11] by Patricia Davids
  79. "Rebel" [The Cat Star Chronicles, Book 10] by Cheryl Brooks (aka Samantha R. Michaels)
  80. "Forever Mine" [A Blood Ties Novel] by Kalalea George
  81. "The Amish Blacksmith" [The Men of Lancaster County Series, Book 2] by Mindy Starns Clark & Susan Meissner
  82. "Only with You" [The Best Mistake Series, Book 1] by Lauren Layne
  83. "The Mating Game" by Melissa Snark
  84. "Crimson Heart" [The Highland Hearts Series, Book 3] by Heather McCollum
  85. "Baby for Keeps" [Billionaires and Babies Series & The Kavanaghs of Silver Glen Series, Book 2] by Janice Maynard
  86. -- July 2014 --
  87. "Silver Wolf Clan" [Silver Wolf Clan Series, Book 1] by Tera Shanley
  88. "Going Down In Flames" [Going Down In Flames/Shape-Shifting Dragon Series, Book 1] by Chris Cannon
  89. "Payoff Pitch" [Philadelphia Patriots Series, Book 5] by V. K. Sykes (aka Vanessa Kelly & Randy Sykes)
  90. "How to Handle a Heartbreaker" [The McCauley Brothers Series, Book 2] by Marie Harte
  91. "The Healer's Touch" by Lori Copeland
  92. "Pleasing the Pirate" by Sharon Cullen
  93. "How to Marry a Cowboy" [Cowboys & Bride's Series, Book 4] by Carolyn Brown
  94. "Since You've Been Gone" by Anouska Knight
  95. "One Night with an Earl" [The House of Trent Series, Book 2.5 & The Donovan Sisters Series, Book 3.5] by Jennifer Haymore
  96. "Accidentally Married on Purpose" [Love & Games Series, Book 3] by Rachel Harris
  97. "Handled By Officer" [Women Behind the Badge Series, Book 1] by Kym Roberts
  98. "Resisting the Musician" [Head Over Heels Series, Book 1] by Ally Blake
  99. "So I Married a Werewolf" [Seattle Wolf Pack Series, Book 3] by Kristin Miller
  100. "Crown Prince, Pregnant Bride" by Kate Hardy
  101. "A Demon and His Witch" [Welcome to Hell Series, Book 1] by Eve Langlais
  102. "My Fake Summer Boyfriend" by Ann Herrick
  103. -- August 2014 --
  104. "Taming the Lion" [Lone Pine Pride Series, Book 2] by Vivi Andrews
  105. "Ravenous" [Lake City Stories Series, Prequel] by Annie Nicholas
  106. "Rock Addiction" [Rock Kiss Series, Book 1] by Nalini Singh
  107. "Ménage with the Muse" [Demon Rock Series, Book 3] by Nico Rosso
  108. "The Texan's Surprise Son" [Texas Rodeo Barons Series, Book 5] by Cathy McDavid
  109. "It Girl" by Nic Tatano
  110. "Wolf Slayer" [Order of the Wolf Series, Book 2] by Angela Addams
  111. "Better Than Perfect" [More Than A Game Series, Book 1] by Kristina Mathews
  112. "Homecoming" [Love Michaelson Series, Book 1] by Jackie Sexton
  113. "Born In Secret" [The Braddacks Series, Book 1] by Susan Kearney
  114. "The Texan's Christmas" [Texas Rodeo Barons Series, Book 6] by Tanya Michaels
  115. "Huckleberry Christmas" [The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill Series, Book 3] by Jennifer Beckstrand
  116. "The Duke of Snow and Apples" by Elizabeth Vail
  117. "A Mother for His Children" by Jan Drexler
  118. "The Sheikh's Son" [Arabian Heat Series & Billionaires and Babies Series, Book 3] by Kristi Gold
  119. "Must Love Breeches" [Must Love Series, Book 1] by Angela Quarles
  120. "Dirty Laundry" by Belle Chastain
  121. "Breaking the Tension" by Anna Love
  122. "Man of the House" by Anita Faulk
  123. -- September 2014 --
  124. "Home is Where the Heat Is" by Amelia James
  125. "Joyful" [Return to Sugarcreek Series, Book 3] by Shelley Shepard Gray
  126. "Pie Girls" by Lauren Clark
  127. "Cinderella & Prince Dom" [Once Upon A Dom Series, Book 1] by Sydney St. Claire (aka Susan Edwards)
  128. "Love Is..." by 40+ authors from the Romance Divas writing community
    1. "Picture Her Loved" [Bayou Bound Series, Book 2.5] by Sidney Bristol
    2. "Once Upon a SEAL" [Sugar Falls Series, Book 0.5] by S. M. Butler (aka Suzan Butler)
    3. "The Invention of Marriage" by Kat Cantrell
    4. "When Eva Gets Even" by Cass Curtis (aka Cassandra Curtis)
    5. "Her Unforgettable Romance" by Keri Ford
    6. "A Capella" [Dominant Cord Series, Book 1.5] by Sadie Haller
    7. "Hello Treasure" by Faye Hunter
    8. "Hidden Attraction" [Wilde Cove Series, Prequel] by Crystal Jordan
    9. "Gibran: Return of the Rebel Sheikh" [The Desert Kings Series, Book 2.5] by Jennifer Lewis
    10. "Falling Hard" [River Bend Series, Prequel to Book 4] by Molly McLain
    11. "First Date" by Mima
    12. "Her Royal Rendezvous" [Her Royal Romance Series, Book 2.5] by Natasha Moore
    13. "Thunder and Loving" by A. Catherine Noon & Rachel Wilder
    14. "The Hollywood Gambit" [Hollywood to Olympus Series, Book 2.5] by Elle Rush
    15. "Shanghai Nights" by Jessica Stone
    16. "Love on Delivery" [Storafalt, Wyoming Series, Book 4] by Holley Trent
    17. "Compromising Positions" [Dangerous To Love Series, Book 1 or Prequel?] by A. J. Vale
    18. "Loving Serenity" [Bad Boys of River City Series, Book 3.5] by Elle Wylder (aka Loribelle Hunt)
    19. "A Taste of Love" [Spring River Valley Series, Book 12.5] by Clarice Wynter
    20. "Perfect No Matter What" [The Wardham Series] by Zoe York
    21. "Flickering Light" [Return to Avalore Series, Prequel] by Élianne Adams
    22. "Bridal Faire" [Wizards of Woodland Academy Series, Part of Book 1] by Melisse Aires
    23. "On Target" by Mahlee Ashwynne
    24. "Blind Briar" [The Briar Saga, Book 0.5] by Sophie Avett
    25. "The Pirate and the Earth Witch" by Jennifer Blackstream
    26. "A Wolf to Watch Over Me" by Sela Carsen
    27. "Tempted Heart" [The Blackbourne Legacy Series, Prequel] by Cate Dean
    28. "The Lightning God’s Wife" [Master of Crows Series] by Grace Draven
    29. "A Heart of Ice" [Araneae Nation Series, Book 0.5] by Hailey Edwards
    30. "Hatter’s Treasure" [Kingdom Series] by Marie Hall
    31. "Lessons Learned" [HOOD Series, Book 0.5] by Dayna Hart
    32. "Two in Hand" [The Tlin Series, Book 1.5] by Elise Logan
    33. "A Pack to Call My Own" by Lyra Marlowe
    34. "Embracing Darkness" [Key Series, Book 1.5] by Yelena Casale & Tina Moss
    35. "Lirael’s Candle" by Cate Rowan
    36. "A Mistress by Design" by Sabrina Darby
    37. "The Eyes of a Soldier" by Bonnie Dee
    38. "A Highlander’s Seduction" [Highland Knights Series] by Jennifer Haymore
    39. "A Right And Proper Apology" by Kate Pearce
    40. "The Lady’s Wicked Proposition" [Wicked Liaisons Series, Book 1.5] by Vivienne Westlake
  129. "Nobody's Cowboy" [Big Sky Mavericks Series, Book 1] by Debra Salonen
  130. "Sunsinger" [Cy’ren Rising Series, Book 3] by Robyn Bachar
  131. "The Day He Kissed Her" [Bad Boys of Crystal Lake Series, Book 3] by Juliana Stone (aka Julie Bale)
  132. "Temptation in Shadows" by Gena Showalter
  133. "Prince Hafiz's Only Vice" [Royal and Ruthless Series, Book 8] by Susanna Carr
  134. "Witches' Waves" [Duals and Donovans: The Different Series, Book 4] by Teresa Noelle Roberts (aka Sophie Mouette)
  135. -- October 2014 --
  136. "No Weddings" [No Weddings Series, Book 1] by Kat Bastion & Stone Bastion
  137. "When Lightning Strikes" [Whiskey Creek Series, Book 1] by Brenda Novak
  138. "When Summer Comes" [Whiskey Creek Series, Book 3] by Brenda Novak
  139. "A Little Christmas Jingle" by Michele Dunaway
  140. "Call Of The Dragon" [Return to Avalore Series, Book 1] by Elianne Adams
  141. "The Mistletoe Effect" by Melissa Cutler
  142. "The Prince Who Loved Me" [The Princes of Oxenburg Series, Book 1] by Karen Hawkins
  143. "Violca's Dragon" [The Dragon Ruby Series, Book 1] by Leilani Love
  144. "Mistletoe Magic" [Bar V5 Dude Ranch Series, Copper Mountain Series, A Copper Mountain Christmas Series, Book 3, & Montana Born Brides Series] by Melissa McClone
  145. "Kiss Me, Cowboy" [Bar V5 Dude Ranch Series, Copper Mountain Series, & Montana Born Rodeo Series, Book 3] by Melissa McClone
  146. "The Brickmaker’s Bride" [Refined by Love Series, Book 1] by Judith Miller
  147. "Mistletoe Wedding" [Bar V5 Dude Ranch Series, Copper Mountain Series, A Marietta Christmas Novel, & Montana Born Christmas Series, Book 2] by Melissa McClone
  148. "Love Me To Death" [The Underveil Series, Book 1] by Marissa Clarke (aka Mary Lindsey)
  149. "The Parchment Scroll" [Highland Secrets Trilogy, Book 3] by C. A. Szarek
  150. "The Heart of Christmas" [Whiskey Creek Series, Book 7] by Brenda Novak
  151. "Blame The Mistletoe" [A Marietta Christmas Novel & Montana Born Christmas Series, Book 1] by Dani Collins
  152. -- November 2014 --
  153. "A Rancher for Christmas" [Martin's Crossing Series, Book 1] by Brenda Minton
  154. "Loving The Prince" [The Jorda Series, Book 1] by Nicole Murphy (aka Elizabeth Dunk)
  155. "A Yorkshire Christmas" [Christmas Around the World Series, Book 2] by Kate Hewitt
  156. "Coming Home to Love" [Lakeside Porches Series, Book 2] by Katie O'Boyle
  157. "Christmas Brides" by Suzanne Enoch, Alexandra Hawkins, Elizabeth Essex, & Valerie Bowman
    1. "One Hot Scot" [Scandalous Highlanders Series, Book 0.5] by Suzanne Enoch
    2. "Once Upon a Christmas Scandal" [Lords of Vice Series, Book 7.5] by Alexandra Hawkins
    3. "The Scandal Before Christmas" [The Reckless Brides Series, Book 3.5] by Elizabeth Essex
    4. "It Happened Under the Mistletoe" [The Secret Brides Series, Book 3.5] by Valerie Bowman
  158. "This Weakness for You" [Taming the Pack Series, Book 2] by Wendy Sparrow
  159. "Wolves' Bane" [The Order of the Wolf Series, Book 3] by Angela Addams
  160. "Flirting on Ice" [Atlantic City Hustlers Series, Novella 1] by Veronica Forand & Susan Scott Shelley
  161. "Touching Paradise" [Shark Shifter Series, Book 1] by Cleo Peitsche
  162. "Her Mistletoe Cowboy" [The Wildflower Ranch Series, Book 2] by Alissa Callen
  163. "All He Wants for Christmas" [Kismet, Michigan Series, Book 4] by Lisa Plumley
  164. "In Your Dreams" [The Blue Heron Series, Book 4] by Kristan Higgins
  165. "Tempting the Governess" by Vivienne Westlake
  166. "The Movie Star's Red Hot Holiday Fling" [Sweetbriar Springs Series, Book 2] by Christine Glover
  167. "Ivan" [Fang Chronicles Series, Book 6] by D’Elen McClain (aka Holly S. Roberts & Suzie Ivy)
  168. -- December 2014 --
  169. "New Year's Resolution: Romance!" by Christie Ridgway, Leslie Kelly, & Tanya Michaels
    1. "Say Yes" by Christie Ridgway
    2. "No More Bad Girls" by Leslie Kelly (aka Leslie A. Kelly)
    3. "Just a Fling" by Tanya Michaels
  170. "Kiss My Ash" by Reneé George
  171. "How to Beguile a Duke" by Ally Broadfield
  172. "Winter Fire" by Kathy Fischer-Brown
  173. "Bedroom Games" [Games Series, Book 4] by Jessica Clare
  174. "The Baby Arrangement" [Life, Love & Babies Series, Book 1] by Samantha Chase
  175. "Commanding the Tides" [Lords of the Abyss Series, Book 2] by Michelle M. Pillow (aka Madelyn Porter & Naomi Kalling)
  176. "Snowbound Surprise for the Billionaire" by Michelle Douglas
  177. "Delicate Freakn’ Flower" [Freakn’ Shifters Series, Book 1] by Eve Langlais
  178. "The Cowboy's Forever Family" [Cowboy Country Series, Book 2] by Deb Kastner
  179. "Royal Heirs Required" [Billionaires and Babies Series & Sherdana Royalty Series, Book 1] by Cat Schield
  180. "Dark Wolf Enterprises" [Dark Wolf Enterprises Series, Book 1] by A. M. Griffin
  181. "A Taste of Merlot" [The Napa Wine Heiresses Series, Book 2] by Heather Heyford

* If you would like to know what I think about the books I didn't share my ratings or reviews with you about, than leave a comment about which one you want info on and I'll get back to you as soon as I can.

Sunday, June 29, 2014

Disappointmentville: Billionaires and Babies Series & The Kavanaghs of Silver Glen Series, Book 2

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Paperback - Pages: 192; Kindle Edition - File Size: 339 KB | Expected Release Date: June 1, 2014 | Publisher: Harlequin : Desire | Obtained: NetGalley

"Baby for Keeps" [Billionaires and Babies Series & The Kavanaghs of Silver Glen Series, Book 2] by Janice Maynard

Author's Book Description : A woman and baby walk into a bar...

It might sound like a joke, but saloon owner Dylan Kavanagh knows it's all too serious. Struggling single mom Mia Larin needs him. She helped him when they were young, and the bachelor means to do everything in his power to protect Mia and her child. Giving her a job, a room under his own roof, is easy. Keeping it all about business isn't....

Dylan is a successful, eligible catch, but are Mia's feelings just a case of hero worship? Or will she still need him, still want him, once her circumstances change?

My Book Review : 2.5 out of 5 stars. Time to overlook the opinion Dylan has of himself, “man up,” and fight for what he’s always wanted ... a family to call his own. Now if Dylan can do just that he may be able to turn his life around for the better.

Together Dylan & Mia made a nice pair because of their shared past and their mutual attraction/respect for each other. Nevertheless, for me this novel had a good plot, yet it’s execution had a flaw that was hard for me to overlook. The flaw being:
  • Mia as a mother who was nursing her daughter.
    • It’s not the problem that she was nursing by itself. It was that in the descriptions of her having sex with Dylan or her dressing up in that fancy gown, etc., it was always explained in a way that yes she fed her daughter on a schedule but otherwise she didn’t need any of the typical “boob pads” or anything to help cover up leakage or the like. I understand it was probably written this way as to not gross out the readers. Yet, the way Mia is described and wearing in the day-to-day style of a nursing mother is just unrealistic. I know this because I am a mother of two children (the youngest being 6 months old right now) and it wasn’t that easy/non-messy for me to nurse my kids as it’s portrayed in this novel.
In addition, I didn’t like Dylan’s mother Maeve. Either it wasn’t a good representation of Maeve, in this novel, or she really is just a domineering steamrolling-type of person, which ended up rubbing me the wrong way. Then there is the ending. I kind of had an idea of where it was going before it happened, yet I didn’t see Dylan’s complete shutdown. It was unexpected and made me disrespect the character a bit.

Overall, I tried to like this novel yet because of the above reasons it didn’t turn out as good for me as I had hoped. Therefore, I don’t recommend it. However, if you’re still interested in checking out this novel you might be interested if you're fans of Ms. Maynard and/or like contemporary romances.

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

Author's Series Extras : The Kavanaghs of Silver Glen Series - Overview

Book Teaser(s) :
"You're a heartless tease," he accused.
"All the better to seduce you, my dear." ~ within Chapter 13
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Janice, then please check out her website.

Feasted On: The Men of Lancaster County Series, Book 2

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Paperback - Pages: 352; Kindle Edition - File Size: 909 KB | Expected Release Date: August 1, 2014 | Publisher: Harvest House Publishers | Obtained: NetGalley

"The Amish Blacksmith" [The Men of Lancaster County Series, Book 2] by Mindy Starns Clark & Susan Meissner

Authors' Book Description : New from bestselling authors Mindy Starns Clark and Susan Meissner, "The Amish Blacksmith" (Book 2 in The Men of Lancaster County series) explores the men of an Amish community in Lancaster County, how their Amish beliefs play out in their unique roles, and the women who change their lives.

Apprenticed blacksmith Jake Miller is skeptical of Priscilla Kinsinger’s innate ability to soothe troubled horses, especially when he has own ideas on how to calm them. Six years earlier, Priscilla’s mother died in an awful accident at home, and Priscilla’s grief over losing her mother was so intense that she was sent to live with relatives in Indiana. She has just returned to Lancaster County.

Not that her homecoming matters to Jake, who is interested in courting lighthearted Amanda Shetler. But Jake’s boss is Priscilla’s uncle, and when the man asks Jake to help his niece reconnect with community life, he has no choice but to do just that. Surprisingly, he finds himself slowly drawn to the beautiful but emotionally wounded Priscilla.

Jake then determines to prove to her that it’s not her fault her mother died, but what he discovers will challenge everything they both believe about the depth of love and the breadth of forgiveness.

My Book Review : 4.5 out of 5 stars. A heartwarming novel about an Amish blacksmith who feels he has everything he ever dreamed of and is on the path that God wants him to be on, that is until a girl--now woman--from his past shows up and throws his beliefs into question. Jake & Priscilla are a great pair. Together they are able to challenge each other into becoming who they are meant to be without fear of being mocked for being different then the norm.

I truly enjoyed this novel. For being a single POV, from Jake's perspective, I really liked how the reader enters his world in a way that makes you feel like you're a part of his life while feeling like it's a diary of sorts too. In addition, it was intriguing to watch how both Priscilla & Jake grow, as well as trying to solve the mystery that is Priscilla throughout this novel. At times though this novel was to slow for me and was hard for me to understand why Jake acted so dense. Yet, I'm happy with how everything plays out in the end.

I recommend this novel and series to anyone fond of Amish and/or Christian romances!

-- On a side note --
I never read book one of this series and I never got lost, as this one is enough of a standalone novel that I didn't felt left out.

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

Authors' Series Extras : Mindy's research and learn more about the Amish | Mindy and several other authors regularly blog about the Amish | The Amish Groom - Overview & Trailer

Book Teaser(s) :
"I'm sure the horses will remember you," I offered, once again trying to ease an awkward moment. "I mean, the ones that were here back then."
In response, Priscilla gave me a look I could only describe as curious. "Think so?"
For a moment, it almost felt like the old Priscilla and the old Jake, just talking about horses as usual, as if not a day had passed.
"Of course. You spent enough time with them."
"Ya," she replied, her expression growing unreadable. "So did you." ~ within PART ONE : Chapter 2
Leaning forward, I propped my elbows on the fence and placed on foot on the lower rail. "So how come I'm not allowed to go near your horse, but you can use mine as your own personal party date?"
She smiled, though I couldn't quite tell if it was meant for me or for Willow. "It's not my fault your horse if a far better conversationalist than anyone I've met at this party thus far."
"I thought you told me animals can't talk."
"Exactly."
I chuckled. ~ within PART ONE : Chapter 12

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

Friday, June 27, 2014

Feasted On: The Cat Star Chronicles, Book 10

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Paperback - Pages: 416; Kindle Edition - File Size: 1217 KB | Expected Release Date: July 1, 2014 | Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca | Obtained: NetGalley

"Rebel" [The Cat Star Chronicles, Book 10] by Cheryl Brooks (aka Samantha R. Michaels)

Author's Book Description : He helped to find her kidnapped friends. Will he let her steal his heart?

Kimcasha has lived by her wits since she lost her family when she was ten years old. So when three of her friends vanish, she has no qualms about using herself as kidnapper's bait, until a stranger foils her plot...

After ten years of selling his services in a brothel, Onca has decided to retire. A refugee of planet Zetith, he has no family, no surname, and no woman—until he rescues a young homeless girl from a kidnapper.

Onca helps Kim find her friends, but as their intense attraction deepens, he begins feeling too jaded for someone so innocent. It's up to Kim to convince him otherwise...


My Book Review : 4 out of 5 stars! I LOVE this series, always have and I don't believe I'll ever stop. However, even though it has the typical erotica and intrigue that you'd find in this series, I found this novel to be more heartwarming and sweet then its predecessors. Onca's story is one that makes you fall in love with this softhearted man just as quickly as Kim does. Their fast-paced romance was enticing to read about while they battle to save Kim's friends and bring down a corrupt system.

Not only were Kim & Onca fun to read about, but also I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know more about Onca's friends and his home computer while being caught up on what was happening to the previous leads in this series!!

I hope to read more from this series and/or possibly read a spin-off series, as these characters have always been entertaining and fun to read about. Yet, if this is to be the last novel in this series, as I've heard rumors of it being, I really liked how it all wrapped up. I do wish there was more yet I'm not sure if I'd ever get enough. Nevertheless, this novel has made me interested in Valkyrie and "the clones" making me wish there was a novel about them too.

I HIGHLY recommend this novel and series to anyone who is a fan of Ms. Brooks and/or enjoys paranormal erotic romances!

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

My Previous Review(s) for this Series : Book 1 | Book 4 | Book 8 | Book 7 | Book 9

My Previous Mention(s) of this Author's Books/Characters : End of the year 2010 Update | "Waiting On" Wednesday: Stud | Liebster Blog Award - 2013 | Best Book Couples -- Happy Valentine's Day 2013 | Teaser Tuesdays: Wildcat | The Books I'm Thankful For (so far) in 2013 | Best Book Couples -- Happy Valentine's Day 2014

Author's Novel Extras : What's in a name? | Thursday Thoughts | A bit bleary-eyed at the moment... | Just wanted to share... | Monday, Monday... | The Call is only the beginning... | Cowboys, Aliens, and Rebels... Oh, My!!!! | Final Rebel Cover! | RAGT 14 Goodie Bag Giveaway! by Cheryl Brooks

Author's Series Extras : The Cat Star Chronicles Blog Tours | Beginnings and Endings | Rest, Relax, Rejuvenate, and...Recover? | Hot, Hot, HOT? | Let it snow? | Wildcat Launch Party and Giveaway!


Book Teaser(s) :
"Oh, I don't live in here," Rashe said. "I've got a house out back. You'll be safer there."
"But I didn't see a house..."
"You wouldn't." Rashe grinned. "That's why it's so safe."
Having just gotten out of an invisible speeder, Kim shouldn't have been surprised. "It's cloaked."
He nodded. "Lift that flap over there and you'll see what I mean."
Kim found a break in the leather and pushed it aside to reveal a standard-sized door that certainly wouldn't have admitted a Darconian.
"I'll let you in the other way, Ganyn," he said. "Just don't let anyone see you. We need to get that speeder inside too."
Kim had no idea how he planned to do that and didn't bother to ask. "This is getting weirder all the time." ~ within Chapter 21

~ within Chapter 33
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Cheryl, then please check out her website.

Feasted On: Brides of Amish Country Series, Book 11

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Paperback - Pages: 224; Kindle Edition - File Size: 333 KB | Expected Release Date: July 15, 2014 | Publisher: Harlequin : Love Inspired | Obtained: NetGalley

"The Amish Nanny" [Brides of Amish Country Series, Book 11] by Patricia Davids

Author's Book Description : A Family in Need

A reclusive Amish logger, Ethan Gingerich is more confortable around his draft horses than the orphaned niece and nephew he's taken in. Yet he's determined to provide the children with a good, loving home. The little ones, including a defiant eight-year-old, need a proper nanny. But when Ethan hires shy Amishwoman Clara Barkman, he never expects her temporary position to have such a lasting hold on all of them. Now this man of a few words must convince Clara she's found her forever home and family.

My Book Review : 4.5 out of 5 stars!! Three Amish children, loose their parents in a freak lightening accident, move into their Uncle's home and with the help of their Amish nanny they become a family again. It's a sweet story about redemption, love, and the meaning of family.

Clara and Ethan are cute pair that help each other overcome their past heartaches and fears while embracing new futures for themselves. I enjoyed reading about these characters, especially Ethan's niece and nephews. In addition, I liked the plot and ending, yet I wish that the secondary plot that brings them together at the end was completed instead of being left hanging. Since I believe, I would have liked to read about their united front against Ethan's Aunts.

Overall, though, I do recommend this novel to anyone who is a fan of this series, a fan of Ms. Davids', and/or to those who like Amish romances!

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

Author's Novel Extras : The Amish Nanny - Overview & Excerpt

Author's Series Extras : Brides of Amish Country series - Overview | Katie's Redemption - Overview & Excerpt | The Doctor's Blessing - Overview & Excerpt | An Amish Christmas - Overview & Excerpt | The Farmer Next Door - Overview & Excerpt | The Christmas Quilt - Overview & Excerpt | A Home for Hannah - Overview & Excerpt | A Hope Springs Christmas - Overview & Excerpt | Plain Admirer - Overview & Excerpt | Amish Christmas Joy - Overview & Excerpt | The Shepherd's Bride - Overview & Excerpt | Why the popularity of Amish books? | Hope Springs, a place for Amish romance. | A Career Highpoint | USA Today Bestseller List, December 5, 2013 | The Things I Do For Research.

Book Teaser(s) :
"That sure smells goot." Amos came into the room with a hopeful expression.
"Would you like a slice of hot bread?"
His eyes brightened. "With church spread on it? That's how Mamm used to fix it."
She dumped the loaves on the counter and wiped the sweat from her brow with her sleeve. "Yum. Peanut butter and marshmallow crème all melted and gooey on fresh hot bread. That sounds perfect. Why don't you go tell Micah to come down and we'll all have some."
Amos darted for the stairs. "Micah! We're having church spread on hot bread!"
Clara smiled at his enthusiasm. She sliced the bread, put it on plates and began mixing the ingredients for the treat. Lily came in and climbed onto her chair. She propped her chin in her hands. "What's the matter, Lily? Don't you like church spread?"
"I do, but this is going to make more dirty dishes to wash."
Clara laughed out loud. "I will do them." ~ within Chapter 5
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Patricia, then please check out her website.

Feasted On: Unintentional Virgin by A. J. Bennett

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Paperback - Pages: 203; Kindle Edition - File Size: 1025 KB | Expected Release Date: December 4, 2013 | Publisher: Self-Published | Obtained: NetGalley

"Unintentional Virgin" by A. J. Bennett

Author's Book Description : *Mature teens due to sexual content and language.

Karma Points is cursed. Cursed with a stupid name and the inability to lose her virginity. She's determined to lose her virginity before she turns twenty if it's the last thing she does.

One night, her good friend Eva brings her to an underground club where Karma meets a tattooed bouncer. He’s far from the clean-cut type she normally falls for, which makes her think this might finally be the night she crosses the threshold of womanhood.

Excited, she goes home with the bouncer named Jax and as always, her dreams crash down once again. Jax cannot believe she is willing to give away her virginity to a stranger she met at a club. As the only son with five sisters and a widowed mom, he can't morally go through with it, even though he's never been more tempted in his life.

Unwilling to let her walk away he strikes a deal. Karma has to spend three weeks dating him and then decide if she wants to have sex or walk away.

My Book Review : 4 out of 5 stars! A girl grows into her "womanhood" after meeting a man who shows her how beautiful and special he believes she is. This is a scorching novel in its intensity and drive to bring these two characters together and prove to themselves that what they have between them is more then an illusion of misplaced lust ... it could even be love.

When you read this novel, you cannot help but want Jax & Karma to get together for good!! They even each other out and their feelings for each other are undeniable.

In addition, I loved all of the secondary characters, but Karma's dads the most!

I recommend this novel to anyone who likes contemporary NA romances!

Purchase This Book Here :

Author's Novel Extras : Cover Reveal Coming Soon! | Unintentional Virgin (New Release)

Book Teaser(s) :
Karma groaned and laid her head on the armrest. "You might as well know the truth. Your friend is a total loser."
"You're not a total loser, Karma. What, are you waiting till you get married?" Eva raised an eyebrow.
"Hell no! I just can't get a guy to have sex with me."
Eva laughed so hard she looked like she was going to fall off the chair. ~ within Chapter 2

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

Made the Grade: Highland Secrets Trilogy, Book 2

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Paperback - Pages: 228; Kindle Edition - File Size: 1114 KB | Expected Release Date: June 3, 2014 | Publisher: Paper Dragon Publishing | Obtained: NetGalley

"The Fae Ring" [Highland Secrets Trilogy, Book 2] by C. A. Szarek

Author's Book Description : Book Two in the time travel, fantasy romance trilogy, Highland Secrets!

She’s always been a dutiful daughter...

Janet MacLeod has spent the last ten years dedicated to her clan, acting as the Lady of the castle—at the cost of her own happiness.

She aches every time she looks at her brothers, both happy with their wives, and wants nothing more than a love of her own.

He’s a broken soldier...

Xander, a former Fae Warrior, sacrificed his wings and magic to live in the Human Realm and became a traitor to his people.

When he finds Janet forlorn on the beach, Xander gives her a ring he’s had since childhood, not realizing it’ll reveal her as his fated mate.

The ring’s magic activates the Faery Stones, and Janet is sucked into the Fae Realm. Her life is in immediate danger, for the Fae sense—and seek to destroy—any human who dares step into their world.

Xander is the only one who can retrieve her, but he too, wears a target.

Can he rescue his soul-mate and return with her to the Human Realm or will temptation of great magic and the rebirth of his wings force him to abandon their destiny?

My Book Review : 3.5 out of 5 stars! A compelling story about a woman who has taken the role of "lady of the house" since her mother died years ago and pretty much raised her nephew now wants a family of her own. Fate has come to her rescue in the form of her fae warrior mate, but is she willing to trust fate or does she want to hold out for love?

Xander and Janet are an intriguing pair, the more you learn about them the more you root for their relationship. Plus, I enjoyed that even though I never read book one it didn't make me feel left out in the on goings of the series, while leaving me curious as to see where Ms. Szarek will take these characters next.

The reason I rated this novel as I did was because of how Xander distances himself towards the end as it really threw off the flow of the novel for me. I understand that because of the situation they were in he could have assumed some things about himself but the way he handled it overall hurt him as a character for me.

Nevertheless, I'd still recommend it to those who like paranormal historical romances!

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

Author's Novel Extras : The Fae Ring - Overview

Author's Series Extras : Highland Secrets Trilogy | The Parchment Scroll - Overview | COVER REVEAL: The Tartan MP3 Player! | My Writing Process Blog Hop. Process? WHAT the HECK is that? #AMWriting | COVER REVEAL!! The Fae Ring and GIVEAWAY!!


Book Teaser(s) :
He was drowning in her. His mind shouted that he needed to regain control, even as his body and his magic needed more.
What the hell is happening?
Xander felt something wrap around them both. His senses spiked. He ripped his mouth off hers, though she was still in his arms, plastered to his chest. Magic surrounded them. Flowed through them.
A golden rope.
He could see it. Xander didn't have to squint. There it was, glowing. Pulsing. Different colors flashed over and spun around them, but that rope didn't waver. ~ within Chapter 2
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by C. A., then please check out her website.

Thursday, June 26, 2014

Blog Tour - Made the Grade: Crimson Heart by Heather McCollum | Review & Novel/Gift Card Giveaway

Today I'm turning my blog over to Heather McCollum, with a review of her latest novel "Crimson Heart," which is the 3rd book in her Highland Hearts 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 will run from June 24 - July 4, 2014]



- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Paperback - Pages: 300; Kindle Edition - File Size: 1354 KB | Release Date: June 24, 2014 | Publisher: Entangled Publishing : Edge | Obtained: Sizzling PR

"Crimson Heart" [The Highland Hearts Series, Book 3] by Heather McCollum

Author's Book Description : Elena has spent her entire life hiding her family name while walking the thin line between lady and servant in a Protestant household. She has kept the secret of her lineage for years, but with a new, fiercely Catholic queen on the throne, Elena's Protestant caretaker is being targeted. And when Bloody Mary discovers Elena's true identity, she must flee to Scotland to save her life.

Highland warrior, Searc Munro, has secrets of his own. In a family of healers, his dark, killing magic must never be known. When his father's life is threatened, Searc unleashes his lethal power to save him. With his clan's suspicious glances and whispers plaguing him, he sets off alone, only to find another use for his magic in saving a beautiful lass being attacked in the forest.

Teaming up as exiles, Elena and Searc head toward Edinburg to find refuge. Yet, with a series of ritual killings haunting the city and a traitor attempting to assassinate Scotland's regent, suspicion turns to Searc. As word of another British heir reaches the country, the two must learn to trust each other before it's too late.

My Book Review : 3 out of 5 stars, this fictional non-fiction romance keeps you in suspense the whole way through!! Based in 1554 Scotland, during a time when Mary I of England (also known as “Bloody Mary”) was coming into her own as Queen and not long after Marie of Guise became the Regent of Scotland. This novel is based around and with some historical characters while still bringing you the “paranormal intrigue” and Highlander hotness for which I believe this series is known!

I liked this novel, with its fun lead characters, many twists, and multiple storylines. I fell in love with this series ever since I read "Captured Heart," book 1, so when I read the Author's Book Description I really wanted to read this novel too! Yet, I hate to say that I am a bit disappointed. Even though I liked this novel, the first half of it was hard for me to get through. I mostly felt that way because of how slow the buildup of the storylines were, so whenever I would end up pausing within the novel my mind would wander and have me interested in looking up these historical characters to find out their own back-stories, which made it very slow going.

Nevertheless, I thoroughly enjoyed the last half of the novel and its wrap up. It’ll be interesting to see where this series will take us next!

I recommend this series and novel to anyone who likes historical romances and doesn't mind a little paranormal qualities thrown in!

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

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

My Previous Mention(s) of this Author's Books/Characters : Best Book Couples -- Happy Valentine's Day 2013

Author's Novel Extras : Crimson Heart - Overview

Author's Series Extras : Highland Heart - Overview | Captured Heart - Overview | Tangled Hearts - Overview | Untamed Hearts - Overview | The Day the Words Stopped | A Writer’s World | UNTAMED HEARTS novella Releases! | CRIMSON HEART Releases!

Book Teaser(s) :
“Searc?” came a whisper beyond the window bars and he pivoted, reining in the churning magic. “Are you there?” Elena.
In one stride he was at the window. Wack! A stone hit him in his forehead, making him grunt. “I’m here, lass.” He rubbed the spot where a knot would appear. “No more stones.”
“Sorry,” she whispered.
“What are ye doing here?”
“Breaking you out.” ~ within Chapter 3

~ within Chapter 16
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Heather, then please check out her website.



About the Author :

Heather McCollum is an award winning, historical paranormal and YA romance writer. She earned her B.A. in Biology, much to her English professor’s dismay. She is a member of Romance Writers of America and the Ruby Slippered Sisterhood of 2009 Golden Heart finalists.

The ancient magic and lush beauty of Great Britain entrances Ms. McCollum’s heart and imagination every time she visits. The country’s history and landscape have been a backdrop for her writing ever since her first journey across the pond.

When she is not creating vibrant characters & magical adventures on the page, she is roaring her own battle cry in the war against ovarian cancer. Ms. McCollum recently slayed the cancer beast and resides with her very own Highland hero, rescued golden retriever & 3 kids in the wilds of suburbia on the mid-Atlantic coast. For more information about Ms. McCollum, please visit www.HeatherMcCollum.com.




Giveaways!! :

  • A $25 Amazon or Starbucks Gift Card along with copies of both Book 1 & 2 of this series to a randomly drawn commenter during the tour

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Soo .... COMMENT on this post, LIKE on facebook, & TWEET on twitter!! And you could WIN!! =0)

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



Find Heather McCollum :
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