Monday, August 31, 2015

Made the Grade: The Wedding Switch by Sharon Kleve

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 535 KB | Expected Release Date: August 23, 2015 | Publisher: Kindle Worlds | Obtained: Sharon Kleve

"The Wedding Switch" [A Four Weddings and a Fiasco Novella] by Sharon Kleve

Author's Book Description : Abby Blackwell runs a successful wedding planning business. She’s delighted when Derrick, her boyfriend of only a few short months proposes. Abby immediately accepts and dreams of the perfect wedding at the Rose Chalet. But, when Derrick with no explanation, pressures her to get married as soon as possible, she has to wonder why and drags her feet.

Derrick Coltrane's future rests on portraying a settled, respectable and married man. All he needs is a wife—now—and Abby fits the bill. She’s successful, smart, gorgeous, and would make the perfect corporate wife. He just needs to convince her to tie-the-knot by the end of the month to close the most important deal of his career.

Hunter Price knows he’s made the biggest mistake of his life. Derrick, a friend from school, hires him to pretend he’s getting married, in an attempt to trick Abby into planning her own whirlwind wedding. Abby is selfless, sweet, tastes like sunshine, and belongs to someone else—and he just kissed her.

Two grooms-to-be—one bride-to-be and one bridesmaid. Which couple will walk down the aisle to happily ever after?

My Book Review : 3 out of 5 stars, a man proposes to his wedding planner “girlfriend” after a few short months of dating after being pressured to be in a committed relationship so he’ll receive his promotion. His fiancĂ©e isn’t sure getting married is what she wants to do, but since she doesn’t know that he only wants to marry her for his job reasons only, she is still slowly following through now that she’s accepted. Yet, slowly isn’t fast enough for him so he brings in a “friend” from high school to try to help out…and soon everything changes for all three of them.

Listed just as the title states, it is a slightly surprising wedding switch. I liked how it all turned out in the end. Yet, even though Derrick unintentionally gets both Abby and Hunter together, and I enjoyed reading about their sweet relationship growing, Derrick himself was a hard character to read.

About the Main Characters :
• Derrick: Rude. Arrogant. Handsome. Rich. A jerk. Engaged to Abby, wants to marry very soon.
• Abby: Beautiful. Sweet. Professional wedding planner. Wants to marry for love and only plans to marry once in her life unlike her parents. Engaged to Derrick. Attracted to Hunter.
• Hunter: Co-owns a detective agency. Attracted to Abby. Handsome. Is “helping” his “friend” Derrick.
• Alessandra: Abby’s Maid of Honor and best friend. A southern belle. Quite pretty. Has been married before.

I enjoyed the plot along with how Hunter goes about winning the girl he likes. It was all very sweet! I recommend this novel to those who are fans of the other Four Weddings and a Fiasco novellas and/or if you’re looking for a unique contemporary wedding romance!

Purchase This Book Here :

Author's Novel Extras : NEW RELEASE!!! THE WEDDING SWITCH BY SHARON KLEVE

Book Teaser(s) :
Derrick actually smiled. He'd lost his mind. ~ within Chapter 2

THE WEDDING SWITCH by Sharon Kleve Author -- Read my #bookreview here:...
Posted by From Me to You - Video, Photography, & Book Reviews on Monday, August 31, 2015
For more information on this book and/or any other books by Sharon, then please check out her website.

Blog Tour - Deal Breakers by Laura Lee | Spreading the Word & Gift Card Giveaway

Today I'm turning my blog over to Laura Lee author of "Deal Breakers," which is the FIRST novel in Dealing With Love 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 on August 31, 2015]



"Deal Breakers"
[Dealing With Love Series, Book 1] by Laura Lee

Author's Book Description :
    How were they supposed to know that one night would change everything?

    Devyn has life all mapped out. She just needs to accomplish one more thing before graduating college and becoming a full-fledged adult—lose her virginity. And who better to assist her than her best friend, Riley?

    Riley is the self-proclaimed king of fling. His college years have been filled with meaningless hookups until the one night that ruined him for all other women. The one night he spends with his best friend, Devyn. Right before he screws it all up.

    Balls to the wall, baby!

    Now five years later, Riley is determined to atone for his mistakes and prove that he can be the man that Devyn deserves. Little does he know that Devyn’s been keeping a secret from him all these years. A big secret. Now he has to figure out how to win back the only girl he’s ever loved while navigating the pitfalls of her unexpected revelation.

    Deal Breakers is filled with lots of laughs, a sexy romance, and an overflowing swear jar.

This book is available to order on :

Amazon (e-Book) | Amazon (Paperback) | Barnes and Noble (e-Book) | Smashwords (e-Book) | Kobo (e-Book)

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





About the Author :

Laura Lee is the author of the bestselling Karli Lane series as well as the upcoming Dealing With Love series. She is a proud member of the Romance Writers of America focusing on paranormal, urban fantasy, and contemporary romance.

Laura's passion has always been storytelling. She spent most of her life with her nose in a book thinking of alternate endings or continuations to the story. She won her first writing contest at the ripe old age of nine, earning a trip to the state capital to showcase her manuscript. Thankfully for her, those early works will never see the light of day again!

Laura lives in the Pacific Northwest with her wonderful husband, two beautiful children, and three of the most poorly behaved cats in existence. She likes her fruit smoothies filled with rum, her cupboards stocked with Cadbury's chocolate, and her music turned up loud. When she's not writing or watching HGTV, she's reading anything she can get her hands on. She's a sucker for spicy romances, especially those involving vampires or cowboys!


TEASER TUESDAY! (ICYMI)
Posted by Laura Lee on Tuesday, July 14, 2015



Book Excerpt :

"What should we toast to?”

I think about it for a second. “To new friends?”

With an unbelievably sexy grin he asks, “What if I want to explore being more than friends?”

I roll my eyes. “Do you ever give up?”

I find myself staring at his dimples as he replies, “Not when I see something I want.”



Giveaways!! :

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Soo .... COMMENT about the giveaway!! And you could WIN!! =0)

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


Join my online release party for Deal Breakers! CLICK HERE for details!



Find Laura Lee :


What a great beach read! 
Posted by Laura Lee on Saturday, August 22, 2015

Sunday, August 30, 2015

Feasted On: Rocky Mountain Miracle by Christine Feehan

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 2061 KB | Expected Release Date: November 17, 2014 | Publisher: Simon & Schuster : Gallery Books : Pocket Star | Obtained: NetGalley

"Rocky Mountain Miracle" by Christine Feehan

Author's Book Description : When Cole Steele, a womanizer rumored to have killed his father, meets Maia Armstrong, a veterinarian rumored to practice magic, the sparks that fly could melt all the snow on his Wyoming ranch. And when an injured horse brings them together, Cole can't help but believe that Maia casts spells on animals and men. What else could explain the burning passion he feels for her and the thawing of his heart around the holidays?

My Book Review : 4.5 out of 5 stars! Cole comes “home” after his father is murdered to take over as guardian for his teenage brother (Jase). Both Cole and Jase have dealt with a violent upbringing at the hands of their father, while they are happy he’s now dead and knowing they weren’t the ones who killed him, they struggle to move on from the demons their father left behind. Yet, when fate brings Maia (the local traveling veterinarian) into their lives, Cole finds it hard to ignore how perfect she is and how she fits right in with them. Now if only Cole can make it through the holiday season (a time period he absolutely hates) and protect both Jase and Maia from those from his father’s past who have plans of revenge…

This slightly paranormal contemporary romance quickly sweeps you up into its intrigue; just as fast as Cole got Maia onto the dance floor…aka lightening quick. I was unsure what to expect of this novel, but soon found it had the same charisma Ms. Feehan puts into all of her novels, especially her Dark Series. Fascinating characters with mysterious pasts and uncertain futures leave the readers only wanting MORE! Cole, Maia, and Jase are no exception as it was great reading about them! Plus, the igniting chemistry between Cole and Maia was heavy throughout this novel making it easy to root for the growing relationship between them. I could not get enough and was sorry it had to end!

I recommend this novel to those who are fans of Ms. Feehan and/or are in the mood for an adventurous contemporary romance that has slight paranormal tendencies. =0)

Purchase This Book and/or The Other Connected Books Here :

Kobo (e-Book) : Rocky Mountain Miracle

IndieBound (Paperback) : The Shadows of Christmas Past (Rocky Mountain Miracle)

Kobo (e-Book) : The Shadows of Christmas Past (Rocky Mountain Miracle)

Kobo (e-Book) : A Christine Feehan Holiday Treasury (Rocky Mountain Miracle)

My Previous Review(s) for this Author : Dark Melody | Dark Legend | Burning Wild | Dark Slayer | Dark Peril

My Previous Mention(s) of this Author's Books/Characters : April 2010 - Book Sale!! | WWW Wednesdays [May 12, 2010] | The Monday Update [September 13, 2010] | "Waiting On" Wednesday: Dark Predator | "Waiting On" Wednesday: Dark Storm

Author's Novel Extras : ROCKY MOUNTAIN MIRACLE: CHAPTER ONE | THE SHADOWS OF CHRISTMAS PAST - Overview | A CHRISTINE FEEHAN HOLIDAY TREASURY - Overview

Author's Book Trailer :

Book Teaser(s) :

ROCKY MOUNTAIN MIRACLE by Christine Feehan -- Read my #bookreview here:...
Posted by From Me to You - Video, Photography, & Book Reviews on Sunday, August 30, 2015
"Hey now, don't you go blaming anything on me," Maia objected. "Honestly, Jase. He started it." She rubbed her mouth. "At least I think he did, I can't remember now. But he's such a flirt."
"He said he doesn't have to smile at women," Jase reported. He was trying desperately to make up for the accusations he'd leveled at his brother earlier. Unsure of himself, he followed Maia's lead, teasing Cole.
Maia's eyebrow shot up. Cole sank back on his knees, groaning aloud. "Jase. That was a brotherly confidence you weren't supposed to share." He looked at Maia. "We're still trying to get the hang of being brothers. Neither of us knows a lot about it yet, but I'm certain that was confidential."
"Brotherly advice?" Maia asked.
"Something like that," Cole admitted. ~ within Chapter 7

ROCKY MOUNTAIN MIRACLE by Christine Feehan -- Read my #bookreview here:...

Posted by From Me to You - Video, Photography, & Book Reviews on Sunday, August 30, 2015

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

Saturday, August 29, 2015

Second Sentence Saturday: Madison's Song


SECOND SENTENCE SATURDAY is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by Jess of From Me to You ... Video, Photography, & Book Reviews. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

  • Grab the novel/novella your currently reading or previously read
  • Open to the first page of Chapter 1 or its Prologue
  • Share the SECOND sentence from that page
  • Share the novel/novella's title & its author, so that other participants can add that novel to their TBR Lists if they want



MY Second Sentence Saturday :

"Madison's Song" by Christine Amsden

The only muscle in her body capable of stirring at all was her heart, and it felt like it was trying to make up for the rest.



PLEASE LEAVE A COMMENT to share either the link to your own SECOND SENTENCE SATURDAY post or share the sentence in a comment here (if you don’t have a blog). Thank You!

Thursday, August 27, 2015

Blog Tour - Made the Grade: A Castle for Dragons by Julie Wetzel | Interview, Review, & Crimson Tree Mystery Box Giveaway

Today I'm turning my blog over to Julie Wetzel, who I interviewed about her novel "A Castle for Dragons," which is the The First Archive in The Dragons of Eternity 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 August 24 - September 4, 2015]



My Q&A with Julie Wetzel :

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

Julie : Of the characters from my books that I could invite to dinner, I would want to have dinner with Darien. Could you imagine all of the things he could tell you? What a wealth of knowledge he could be!

I think Rupert would be the harder one to have a meal with. He seems a little rough around the edges and probably wouldn’t be very good dinner company.

Jess : Please describe "A Castle for Dragons" in in one to two sentences.

Julie : A brave hero takes on a dragon to protect a village full of troublesome maidens, but nothing is exactly what it seems.

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

Julie : Hard question. Usually what I get first is a single scene playing out in my head. From there the characters grow into a storyline.

Jess : It's Patrick vs Patrick -- Is there any differences and/or similarities between Patrick from your "A Castle for Dragons" novel and Patrick from your "Granting Wishes" novel?

Julie : I’m surprised I haven’t had this question sooner. About the only similarities are their names and the fact that they are redheads. "A Castle for Dragons" was written well before "Granting Wishes" was. When I went to find a name for a leprechaun, Patrick was the most obvious choice. I didn’t even think of the fact that I had another main character that was named Patrick. They were never meant to be reflections of each other, so any other similarities are just coincidence.

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

Julie : My favorite secondary character has to be Nana. She’s the old lady that Daniel and Patrick find in the castle when they first arrive. We only see her a few times in the story but she is the one that points out that dragons are still known to the world. That no matter how they try to hid, someone will remember them. And crazy old ladies are just fun characters.

Jess : What is the most funny thing one of your characters, from "A Castle for Dragons," said or did?

Julie : There are a lot of cute moments in the book, but my favorite act is where Patrick runs across the tables in the main hall trying to catch Kathryn after a misunderstanding. I always laugh when I think of the Lord of the castle jumping up on the table during dinner and jumping across through the crowd.

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

Julie : I liked writing the first encounter between Patrick and the dragon. It’s that moment that Kathryn goes form thinking the new lord is a total show off and worthless, to truly worrying about him and thinking he might not be all that bad. Plus the fight between Patrick and the Dragon was fun to think through.

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

Julie : Well, when the second in the Dragons of Eternity series is released, I’ll have eight books in print. I’ve also written two short stories for anthologies and I have several fanfictions out there. I also have two books I’ve completed, but haven’t found the proper place to publish them yet. Their day will come, but I’ve got enough on my plate for now.

As to my favorite. That’s like asking a mother which of her children is her favorite. There are times she hates every one of them, but she loves them all. Right now my golden child is my current work in progress, "For the Heart of Dragons." Simply because I’m spending so much time with it and it hasn’t started to piss me off yet. I’m sure by the time I get to editing I will hate it and be on to another love.

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

Julie : Oh the file of unfinished work on my computer would amaze you! I have a lot of irons in the fire, but the one that I’m working on at the moment is "For the Heart of Dragons." It’s the third novel in the Dragons of Eternity series. And I guess I can share a snippet with you.

"For the Heart of Dragons" –

Noah stared at the heart in awe. It was beautiful, but he didn’t know if it would remain so. How long could a dragon survive in this form? He pondered this for a moment, but Raven’s dying words echoed through his brain pushing him to act. Unwilling to take the chance of losing the dragon and he squeezed the gem, slicing the diamond points deep into his palm. Rolling his hand over he let his blood seep out on the heart. The power of the dragon raced up his arm, slamming into his brain. A mighty roar shook his world.

Mine!” the dragon roared as it claimed its new home.

Noah fought for control over the beast, but the dragon’s rage gave it an unnatural strength. The desire to destroy everything that had hurt Raven coursed thought him. “No!” he cried out. Dropping the blood covered heart, he wrapped his arms around Raven’s body trying to hold onto himself, but the dragon was too strong. It ripped its way out of Noah’s body taking Noah for a ride. The leather collar around his neck forced the dragon into a size smaller then it was used to, but this size was more than enough to do what it wanted for the moment. Noah’s consciousness dropped away as the creature pounced on the body of the man that had killed Raven and started ripping it to shreds.

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

Julie : Well, my husband thinks it should be "Grievous Bodily Harm: The Misadventures of an Accidental Author." I kicked him for that one before agreeing that it was probably the best title anyone could come up with. I do tend to be slightly accident prone and it is true that I had never planned to be an author. So, it does kind of fit.



About the Author :

Julie Wetzel is a mother of a hyperactive red headed boy, and what time she’s not chasing down dirty socks and unsticking toys from the ceiling she's crafting worlds readers can get lost it. Julie is a self-proclaimed bibliophile and lover of big words. She likes hiking, frogs, interesting earrings, and a plethora of other fun things.



- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Paperback - Pages: 208; Kindle Edition - File Size: 3553 KB | Expected Release Date: July 9, 2015 | Publisher: Crimson Tree Publishing | Obtained: Crimson Tree Publishing

"A Castle for Dragons" [The Dragons of Eternity Series, The First Archive/Book 0.5] by Julie Wetzel

Author's Book Description : With a dragon ravaging the countryside, the Prince of Dragons sends out his best man, Patrick Mylan. His orders—to secure an abandoned castle and stop the foul beast from stealing more maidens. This shouldn’t be an issue for an Elite of Eternity

But there is more going on than there seems. When other dragons are sighted in the area, the town sends their maidens to their new lord for protection… and Patrick’s life becomes a lot more complicated. With the dragon he’s hunting acting odd and a castle filled with women distracting him, how is he supposed to do the job he was sent for? And what are the ladies going to do when they find out he’s the other dragon in the area?


This story is a historical fiction set in the world of Eternity.

My Book Review : 3.5 out of 5 stars, at the orders of his Prince (and adopted brother) Patrick, with is contingent of warriors, comes into town to take care of its rogue dragon problem and become their new Lord of the Castle. Things don’t go as smoothly as he would hope but with the towns “support” behind him, he’ll try his best to protect them with everything he has. Now if he can only find a way to let the town know that he and his men are the things they fear the most too... dragons.

With a “historical” feel, this is one fantasy romance that sets its readers up for an unexpected adventure based around fascinating characters! This wasn’t exactly what I expected but I don’t think I would have changed anything about it. One thing I especially enjoyed was reading about Patrick’s “dragon world” and how everything worked in it. Then when it came to Patrick and his relationship with Kathryn, I found their banter to be amusing while their growing relationship very gratifying! Kathryn definitely kept Patrick on his toes and it made watching her fall in love him all that much sweeter.

I cannot wait to see where this series will take us next. I recommend this novel to those looking for a unique dragon-shifter fantasy romance!

Purchase This Book and/or the ones from its Connected Series Here : IndieBound (Paperback) : On the Accidental Wings of Dragons (Book 1) | Kobo (e-Book) : On the Accidental Wings of Dragons (Book 1) | Kobo (e-Book) : For the Memory of Dragons (Book 2) | Amazon.com (e-Book) : On the Accidental Wings of Dragons (Book 1) | Amazon.com (Paperback) : On the Accidental Wings of Dragons (Book 1) | Amazon.com (e-Book) : For the Memory of Dragons (Book 2) | Amazon.com (Paperback) : For the Memory of Dragons (Book 2) | Smashwords : On the Accidental Wings of Dragons (Book 1) | Smashwords : For the Memory of Dragons (Book 2)


IndieBound (Paperback) : A Castle for Dragons (Book 0.5)

Kobo (e-Book) : A Castle for Dragons (Book 0.5)

Author's Novel Extras :
~~~~~~Wonderful News!~~~~~~A Castle for Dragons is being released early!It's now available for preorder on Amazon at...
Posted by Julie Wetzel Author on Sunday, July 5, 2015

Author's Series Extras : The Dragons of Eternity Series - Overview



Book Teaser(s) :

A CASTLE FOR DRAGONS by Julie Wetzel Author -- Read my #bookreview, #authorinterview and #blogtour here:...
Posted by From Me to You - Video, Photography, & Book Reviews on Thursday, August 27, 2015
“So what do I do about her?” He was more than willing to give in, but it was convincing the girl that was turning into an issue.
“That, my friend, is the biggest mystery of all.” Daniel grinned. “Figure out the mind of a woman, and you could be the wealthiest man in the world.” ~ within Chapter 6
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Julie, then please check out her website.



Book Excerpt :

“I am Patrick Mylan,” he restated. “I have been sent by the king to see to your dragon.”
This sent another murmur through the gathering crowd.
“I claim Dunham Castle as my payment.”
Silence flowed across the crowd.
Patrick went on. “She is in need of much repair. I will require a tithing from the town.”
A roar of objection went up.
After a moment, the crowd quieted enough for Patrick to continue. “In return for your support, I will rid you of your dragon and offer you the protection of a lord.”
Outrage swept through the villagers.
“How do you expect us to pay a tithing? The dragon has razed all of our crops and killed most of our men.” The sweet voice of the woman cut through the din.
Patrick turned back to her. “I understand that times are hard, and I have coin enough to pay for the supplies I need for now. The tithing I ask is for repairs to the castle after I’ve vanquished the dragon.” He looked around at the now-silent faces. “It’s no more than any lord would ask of his people.”
“We are not your people,” the woman snapped at him.
Oh yes, she was feisty, but so was he. Patrick smiled back at her. “Then I will leave you to your dragon, fair maiden.” Pulling on the reins of his horse, he turned back towards the castle.
“Wait.” Eustace held up his hand to stop Patrick from leaving. “Can you really slay this dragon?”
“My men and I are well versed in the ways of dragons.” Patrick bowed his head. “We can stop this beast.”
“And what happens when you fail?” the feisty woman yelled at his back.
Patrick turned in his saddle to look back at her. “Then you will be left with a fat dragon and be free of the tithing,” he sassed before turning his attention back to Eustace.



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 Julie Wetzel :

Tuesday, August 25, 2015

Made the Grade: Thrust of Fate by Amy Crown

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 5217 KB | Expected Release Date: August 10, 2015 | Publisher: Self-Published | Obtained: Amy Crown

"Thrust of Fate" by Amy Crown

Author's Book Description : Arial thought she had a pretty normal life until news of her uncle's death thrusts four men into her life: a demon, an angel, a vampire and a werewolf. Now her previously non-existent love life is more than she can handle. How can she choose and does she have a choice?


- This story is intended to be enjoyed by an 18+ audience only.
- Standalone novel, no cliffhangers here!
- Please be aware that this is a romance short. Shorter fiction is a fun and quick read, not a full-length novel.

My Book Review : 3.5 out of 5 stars! After six years of being away, Arial comes home because she is told her Uncle (the man who raised her) has passed away. However, not long after arriving at the hotel she finds out that the destiny that her Uncle always alluded to over the years has finally arrived and now she’s forced accept the men (or choose between them) who come along with it. Yet, can she really choose between them when she really wants them all? Will the men be willing to “get along” for the sake of Arial? Or will she decide to take matters into her own hands to get exactly what she wants?

A dynamic plot, intriguing characters, with a fast-paced setting. I liked how Arial handles everything that came her way, even though she should have handled everything better that happens towards the end. While the relationship between Arial and her men (Emil, Damien, Gabriel, and Murin) is growing throughout this novella (and even afterwards) I enjoyed what I could of it and how they came together. Nevertheless, the whole “orb thing” and how it was supposed to, basically, “take away” her matings so she could accommodate them all was a little weird for me. It also annoyed me a bit because, even though she has instant feelings for them all, her own choice in the matter isn’t even taken into consideration.

With all that being said, though, I am very happy that I read this novella! It’s not as erotic as I had expected, yet still a fun paranormal romance. Then through it all, the way the plot builds on itself, made me want to read more about Arial and her men.

I do recommend this novella to those who are looking for a quick paranormal romance with a unique setting.

-- On a side note --
When reading a "multiple couple" romance I kind of like to read from as many, if not all, of the characters' POVs, but in this one it was only was Arial and Emil's POVs that you get to read from, which I found that a little disappointing.

Purchase This Book Here :

Book Teaser(s) :
Before she even made it to the door in the blink of an eye the dark man with the red-rimmed eyes was standing before her.
She nearly screamed.
“Do not.” He warned.
She was upset with herself that she’d followed his command, but he had a look to him that told her that few people challenged his wishes.
“Why are you in my room?” She demanded.
“We will be rooming together. I see that it is necessary.”
“What are you talking about?” She asked confused.
“How dare you leave your door unlocked for anyone to walk in and how dare you think to open your door to another man dressed like that.” ~ within Chapter 2

THRUST OF FATE by Amy Crown -- Read my #bookreview here:...
Posted by From Me to You - Video, Photography, & Book Reviews on Tuesday, August 25, 2015
For more information on this book and/or any other books by Amy, then please check out her website.

Monday, August 24, 2015

Blog Tour - Feasted On: Not Always a Saint by Mary Jo Putney | Review

Today I'm turning my blog over to Mary Jo Putney, with a review of her latest novel "Not Always a Saint," which is the SEVENTH novel in The Lost Lords Series!! [Blog Tour will run on August 24 - September 18, 2015]



- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Paperback - Pages: 352; Kindle Edition - File Size: 430 KB; Audiobook - Unabridged | Release Date: August 25, 2015 | Publisher: Kensington : Zebra Books | Obtained: Pump Up Your Book / NetGalley

"Not Always a Saint" [The Lost Lords Series, Book 7] by Mary Jo Putney (aka M. J. Putney)

Author's Book Description : “Adventure, passion and pure reading pleasure!” – Jo Beverley

After the death of his sweetheart when he was at university, Daniel Herbert buried his grief in medical studies and his passion for healing. Viewed as a saint by those who know him, in his own mind he never quite manages to live up to his own high standards.

Most men would be thrilled to learn they’ve inherited a title and estate from a distant relative, but Daniel is appalled because the burden of wealth will interfere with his medical calling. Warily he accepts that he must enter society and seek a wife—a sensible woman who can oversee his properties, leaving him free to continue his work. He does not expect to become intoxicated by a woman called the Black Widow, who is as mysterious as she is shockingly beautiful…

Jessie Kelham’s looks have always been a curse. Now alone with a young daughter and a perilous secret, she is in need of protection. But dangerously attractive Daniel Herbert is not the kind of husband she has in mind. If he recognizes her, the demons of her past will surely erupt. Yet they cannot keep apart—and soon they are drawn into a union that may bring joy—or shattering danger…

My Book Review : 4 out of 5 stars! Jezebel (Jessie/Lisbet) has had a tough life. Growing up as the daughter of a very strict vicar then to become married to an abuser and now to have her current husband pass away leaving her to safeguard her daughter by any means necessary, like finding another man to marry who can give her security and protection sooner then she would like too. Daniel is a perfect choice. He’s the type of man she would like to marry, if only he was a bit older, but with her “shady past” can she be the right woman for him?

While overall a mysterious novel full of intrigue, it was the characters’ banter and the circumstances that brought Jessie and Daniel together that held my interest! Set during the Regency era in England, it deals with abusive husbands/fathers, bigamy, treacherous nephews, an unwanted husband search, and more than enough other things to keep its readers on their toes. In addition, I enjoyed that while this novel is a part of a series, it brings the some previous characters in so seamlessly while building for the following novel (#8) and still coming off as a standalone so I could understand everything that was going on. Very well written and the ending was VERY surprising!

As for the main characters, Jessie and Daniel, they are a matched set. On paper, they were everything both didn’t want for in a partner. Yet, as they get to know one another, better they find that they are the perfect match! I don’t think I’ve ever stated this for a character, but I found Daniel to be pure, and while he constantly says that he is no saint, I will admit he is quite the gentleman. He’s one man I’d recommend anyone to fall for! Together Daniel and Jessie make a very good team. I’d LOVE to read more about them!

I recommend this novel to those who are fans of the series and/or to those looking for an intense Regency romance!

Purchase This Book and/or The Other Books From It's Series Here : IndieBound (Paperback) : Loving a Lost Lord (Book 1) | IndieBound (Compact Disc) : Loving a Lost Lord (Book 1) | IndieBound (Paperback) : Never Less Than a Lady (Book 2) | IndieBound (Paperback) : Nowhere Near Respectable (Book 3) | IndieBound (Hardcover, Large Print) : Nowhere Near Respectable (Book 3) | IndieBound (Paperback) : No Longer a Gentleman (Book 4) | IndieBound (Hardcover, Large Print) : No Longer a Gentleman (Book 4) | IndieBound (Paperback) : Sometimes a Rogue (Book 5) | IndieBound (Hardcover) : Sometimes a Rogue (Book 5) | IndieBound (Paperback) : Not Quite a Wife (Book 6) | IndieBound (Hardcover) : Not Quite a Wife (Book 6) | Kobo (e-Book) : Mary Jo Putney's Lost Lords Bundle: Loving a Lost Lord, Never Less Than A Lady, Nowhere Near Respectable, No Longer a Gentleman & Sometimes A Rogue | Kobo (e-Book) : Loving a Lost Lord (Book 1) | Kobo (e-Book) : Never Less Than a Lady (Book 2) | Kobo (e-Book) : Nowhere Near Respectable (Book 3) | Kobo (e-Book) : No Longer a Gentleman (Book 4) | Kobo (e-Book) : Sometimes a Rogue (Book 5) | Kobo (e-Book) : Not Quite a Wife (Book 6) | Alibris (Paperback) : Loving a Lost Lord (Book 1) | Alibris (Paperback) : Never Less Than a Lady (Book 2) | Alibris (Paperback) : Nowhere Near Respectable (Book 3) | Alibris (Paperback) : No Longer a Gentleman (Book 4) | Alibris (Paperback) : Sometimes a Rogue (Book 5) | Alibris (Paperback) : Not Quite a Wife (Book 6)


IndieBound (Paperback) : Not Always a Saint (Book 7)

IndieBound (Hardcover) : Not Always a Saint (Book 7)

Kobo (e-Book) : Not Always a Saint (Book 7)


Author's Novel Extras :

YAY! Besides getting a Top Pick from Romantic Times, NOT ALWAYS A SAINT received a starred review from Library Journal:...
Posted by Mary Jo Putney on Tuesday, August 4, 2015

Author's Series Extras :

Sherrie Holmes, the site manager for our WordWenches blog, has been raising an orphaned kitten, and teaching young...
Posted by Mary Jo Putney on Friday, September 27, 2013

Book Teaser(s) :
Refusing to back down, he asked, "Do you dislike me? I've thought there was a certain harmony of mind as well as a powerful attraction between us, but perhaps that's wishful thinking on my part."
She bit her lip. She was a good liar when necessary, but she didn't want to lie to this man. "You're not wrong, but attraction isn't a sound basis for a marriage."
"Isn't it a start?" he asked quizzically. "Shouldn't we at least try to discover if we'd suit?"
"Didn't anyone ever tell you it's ungentlemanly to ask a lady why she doesn't accept you?" Jessie said with sudden exasperation. "A simple 'no' should suffice!"
His mouth curved wryly. "As with the rule about morning calls, I'm aware of that, but I don't choose to comply. This is too important. You're too important." ~ within Chapter 11

NOT ALWAYS A SAINT by Mary Jo Putney -- Read my #bookreview here:...
Posted by From Me to You - Video, Photography, & Book Reviews on Monday, August 24, 2015

Book Preview :
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Mary Jo, then please check out her website.



About the Author :

Mary Jo Putney was born in Upstate New York with a reading addiction, a condition for which there is no known cure. After earning degrees in English Literature and Industrial Design at Syracuse University, she did various forms of design work in California and England before inertia took over in Baltimore, Maryland, where she has lived very comfortably ever since.

While becoming a novelist was her ultimate fantasy, it never occurred to her that writing was an achievable goal until she acquired a computer for other purposes. When the realization hit that a computer was the ultimate writing tool, she charged merrily into her first book with an ignorance that illustrates the adage that fools rush in where angels fear to tread.

Fortune sometimes favors the foolish and her first book sold quickly, thereby changing her life forever, in most ways for the better. (“But why didn’t anyone tell me that writing would change the way one reads?”) Like a lemming over a cliff, she gave up her freelance graphic design business to become a full-time writer as soon as possible.

Since 1987, Ms. Putney has published over forty books and counting. Her stories are noted for psychological depth and unusual subject matter such as alcoholism, death and dying, and domestic abuse. She has made all of the national bestseller lists including the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, USAToday, and Publishers Weekly. Five of her books have been named among the year’s top five romances by The Library Journal, while three were listed in the Top Ten Romances of the year by Booklist, published by the American Library Association.

A ten-time finalist for the Romance Writers of America RITA, she has won RITAs for "Dancing on the Wind" and "The Rake and the Reformer" and is on the RWA Honor Roll for bestselling authors. She has also been awarded two Romantic Times Career Achievement Awards, four NJRW Golden Leaf awards, plus the NJRW career achievement award for historical romance. In 2013 she was awarded the Romance Writers of America Nora Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award.

Though most of her books have been historical romances, she has also published three contemporary romances, several paranormal historicals with strong fantasy elements, a young adult historical fantasy trilogy, and numerous novellas and short stories. She is currently writing the New York Times list bestselling Lost Lords historical romance series for Kensington.

Ms. Putney lives near Baltimore, Maryland with her nearest and dearest, both two and four footed. She says that not least among the blessings of a full-time writing career is that one almost never has to wear pantyhose.

Mary Jo Putney is the recipient of the 2013 RWA Nora Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award


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

Thank you everyone who participated in my #LostLords giveaway contest! I'll be emailing the winners tomorrow.Click...
Posted by Mary Jo Putney on Sunday, August 23, 2015



Find Mary Jo Putney :

Saturday, August 22, 2015

Second Sentence Saturday: Mayhem


SECOND SENTENCE SATURDAY is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by Jess of From Me to You ... Video, Photography, & Book Reviews. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

  • Grab the novel/novella your currently reading or previously read
  • Open to the first page of Chapter 1 or its Prologue
  • Share the SECOND sentence from that page
  • Share the novel/novella's title & its author, so that other participants can add that novel to their TBR Lists if they want



MY Second Sentence Saturday :

"Mayhem" [Mayhem Series, Book 1] by Jamie Shaw

I tug at the black hem of the stretchy nylon skirt my best friend squeezed me into, but unless I want to show the tops of my panties instead of the skin of my thighs, there's nothing I can do.



PLEASE LEAVE A COMMENT to share either the link to your own SECOND SENTENCE SATURDAY post or share the sentence in a comment here (if you don’t have a blog). Thank You!

Tuesday, August 18, 2015

Blog Tour - Feasted On: Reap & Repent by Lisa Medley | Review & Gift Card Giveaway

Today I'm turning my blog over to Lisa Medley, with a review of her novel "Reap & Repent," which happens to be the FIRST BOOK in The Reaper 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 on August 17 - 21, 2015]



- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Paperback - Pages: 328; Kindle Edition - File Size: 710 KB; Audiobook - Unabridged | Expected Release Date: March 3, 2015 | Publisher: Big Cedar | Obtained: Goddess Fish Promotions

"Reap & Repent" [The Reaper Series, Book 1] by Lisa Medley

Author's Book Description : They see death. Can they share a life?

Ruth Scott can read the energy of every person she meets. Then she meets Deacon Walker. She can see his ice-blue eyes, his black hair, and his gorgeous face. But this beautiful stranger has no aura.

Deacon is just as unsettled by Ruth—and, having spent more than two hundred years ushering souls to Purgatory, Deacon is seldom shocked by anything. As he helps Ruth to understand her true nature, she awakens desires that he decided long ago a Reaper can’t afford.

A demon invasion forces Deacon to confront the darkness in his own past even as he fights to save the human souls he’s charged to protect. When he’s taken captive, his first concern is for Ruth. But Ruth just might be able to save herself—and the Reaper she can’t live without—if she can learn to wield her newfound powers.

My Book Review : 4 out of 5 stars! All her life Ruth has known she was different, especially with her ability to see other people’s auras. However, since she was twelve-years-old, when she witnessed her father’s death, she has been alone keeping herself away from people and afraid of her ability. Now, an adult with a PhD Ruth’s life dramatically changes after her mother dies and Deacon—a two hundred and six year old reaper—inserts himself into her life to show her that she is a reaper too. Yet, as their time together brings them from one extreme circumstance to the next and their connection exponentially grows, they’ll have to decide what they are willing to do to keep one another safe…

Intense and dynamic with a more unique setting then I am use to reading, it become intrigued from the very beginning. Ruth is a surprising character because in the beginning she is not what I would have expected as a leader, very scared of everything around her even herself in a way, yet as her determination grows to learn more while she gains the relationships with Deacon and Nate she becomes a force to be reckoned with. I liked how unflappable she was when it came to those she cares about. Learning about being reaper and the hierarchy of it all was interesting, especially seeing it all through Ruth’s eyes.

While I found Deacon to be one hunk of a man, he’s also a bit over confident in his abilities so much so that when Ruth comes into the equation he falters quite a bit. Nevertheless, I liked reading about Ruth and his growing relationship. It was fast-paced, intoxicating, and relentless. Very hard not to root for them!

I will say that this is a “never-ending story” it seems. Meaning that while Deacon and Ruth’s personal story basically concludes with this novel, there are still leftover questions about Ruth along with what will happen to her friends and her from this point forward. Basically, the reader is left with a whole bunch of intrigue with hopes of what is next to come. I’m definitely curious! =0)

Overall, I recommend this novel and series to those looking for an intense fantasy romance based around “good” vs “evil.”

-- On a side note --
When thinking about Ruth’s parentage (which you don’t really find out in this novel) I kept thinking of Star Wars’ Luke and Leia while kind of believing/hoping that Nate and Ruth would turn out the same way, miraculously find out that they were siblings.

Purchase This Book and/or the ones from its Connected Series Here : Amazon.com (e-Book) : Reap & Redeem (Book 2) | Amazon.com (Paperback) : Reap & Redeem (Book 2) | Amazon.com (e-Book) : Reap & Reveal (Book 3) | Amazon.com (Paperback) : Reap & Reveal (Book 3)

- NOTE: This book is FREE (as an e-Book) during the KDP Select Tour from August 17 - 21, 2015 -

Author's Novel Extras : Pinterest: Reap & Repent: Book One | Reap & Repent Preview | ***Lisa Medley*** | #8Sunday – A Reap & Repent Snippet: A Reaper & His Scythe | #8Sunday – A Reap & Repent Snippet: Demon Whac-A-Mole | New COVER REVEAL for REAP & REPENT

A portal perhaps? Gate to nowhere along my travels today.
Posted by Lisa Medley - Author on Wednesday, April 23, 2014

Author's Series Extras : Pinterest: Reap & Redeem: Book Two | Pinterest: Reap & Reveal: Book Three | Pinterest: Reap & Reckon: Book Four

Shiny new bookmarks!
Posted by Lisa Medley - Author on Sunday, April 5, 2015

Book Teaser(s) :
Her own experience was proof that not everything was black-and-white.
Most people said that they didn’t believe in the supernatural, but if they believed in God, they should at least believe in the possibility of everything else. If God, then why not other supernatural entities: Satan? Angels? Demons? Vampires? Werewolves? Reapers? It was a slippery slope for sure. Open one door and no telling what might come through it. ~ within Chapter 4
It was just too much. Way, way too much. Ridiculous actually. The stuff of fairy tales or nightmares, she thought. Yes, nightmares. And the man in the next room? What about him? Was he the prince or the villain of this story? Time would tell. She prayed for the prince because if villains kissed that good, she was screwed. Utterly and completely. ~ within Chapter 8

REAP & REPENT by Lisa Medley - Author -- READ MY #BOOKREVIEW, THREE #TEASERS, #EXCERPT, AND #GIVEAWAY TOMORROW (August...
Posted by From Me to You - Video, Photography, & Book Reviews on Monday, August 17, 2015
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Lisa, then please check out her website.



About the Author :

Lisa has always enjoyed reading about monsters in love and now she writes about them, because monsters need love too.

She adores beasties of all sorts, fictional as well as real, and has a farm full of them in her Southwest Missouri home, including: one child, one husband, two dogs, two cats, a dozen hens, thousands of Italian bees, and a guinea pig.

She may or may not keep a complete zombie apocalypse bug-out bag in her trunk at all times, including a machete. Just. In. Case.




Book Excerpt :

“I want answers. In the hospital, I sensed something about you when we met… Your mother was Mary Scott. Correct? She died in that hospital room while you were there?”

“I didn’t do that. It wasn’t my fault,” she blurted out.

“Okaaay,” he proceeded cautiously. “Did you touch her before you left?”

She considered him, her mouth going dry. She had touched her. She’d given her that final kiss on the forehead.

“Yes,” she whispered.

Ruth couldn’t look at him as she began to realize what all of this might mean. Had her bizarre handicap really killed her father, and now her mother, too?

She was a killer.

“You’re not a killer,” he said, rolling his eyes.

“I thought you couldn’t read minds!” She sobbed, tears choking her throat closed.

It’s my fault. I AM a killer.

“You’re not,” he insisted. “I think you’re a reaper, like me.”

Her heart starting beating faster and her vision started to go blurry around the edges. The whole room sped down a black chute into darkness. She was going to pass out. She was going to pass out with a strange supernatural man in her house.

God help me.

Don't fear the reaper. Lust after him. REAP & REPENT by Lisa Medley - Author #FREE Aug. 17-21, 2015 on Amazon Kindle...
Posted by From Me to You - Video, Photography, & Book Reviews on Monday, August 17, 2015



Giveaways!! :

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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

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



Find Lisa Medley :

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