From Me to You ... Video, Photography and Book Reviews

Sunday, February 1, 2015

Feasted On: Billionaires and Babies Series & Sherdana Royalty Series, Book 1

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Paperback - Pages: 192; Kindle Edition - File Size: 466 KB | Expected Release Date: March 1, 2015 | Publisher: Harlequin : Desire | Obtained: NetGalley

"Royal Heirs Required" [Billionaires and Babies Series & Sherdana Royalty Series, Book 1] by Cat Schield

Author's Book Description : A prince's surprise twins may turn his royal marriage into something more...

Prince Gabriel Alessandro's top priority is continuing the family line, and he's found the perfect bride-to-be in Lady Olivia Darcy. While their royal marriage is not based on love, he desires her. Making a baby together will be pure pleasure. Then Gabriel learns he is already a father to twins.

Olivia surprises Gabriel with her acceptance of his motherless girls, making him believe their loveless union could blossom into something more. But Olivia's agreement conceals a devastating secret. In danger of losing the dynasty he so desires, will he risk choosing love over duty?

My Book Review : 4 out of 5 stars. Chosen out of necessity and not because of love, will Olivia be able to become the princess that Gabriel needs her to be or will her one secret get in the way?

This novel threw me for a loop in the best way possible! I expected the twins coming into Gabriel’s life. I guessed correctly, what Olivia’s secret would be. However, I never anticipated the touching depths this novel would have and the heartwarming ways that Gabriel made up for the callous things he said to Olivia.

I loved how Gabriel’s twins took to Olivia so quickly. Yet, even more, I enjoyed how Olivia and Gabriel’s relationship turned into something neither wanted to let go of, it made it all very charming. I couldn’t get enough! I cannot wait to see what is up next for Gabriel’s siblings and I hope Olivia will finally get what she wants to be, a mother, as this series progresses!

I highly recommend this series and novel to those who like contemporary “Princely” romances!

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

My Previous Review(s) for this Author : His Secret Temptation

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

My Previous Review(s) for the Billionaires and Babies Series : The Nanny Bombshell | Baby for Keeps | The Sheikh's Son

Author's Novel Extras : ROYAL HEIRS REQUIRED - Overview & Excerpt | Pinterest: HD - Royal Heirs Required

Author's Series Extras : Sherdana Royalty Series - Overview | Pinterest: HD - Sherdana book 2 | Pinterest: HD - Sherdana book 3

Book Teaser(s) :

Gabriel shot his brother a narrow look. "You just referred to your future sister-in-law and queen as hot. Do you think Mother would approve?"
"I'm her baby boy." The youngest of the triplets, Christian had played the birth-order card all his life. "She approves of everything I do." ~ within Chapter 1

"What about what you deserve?" Libby pushed. "Don't you deserve to be happy?"
"I will be," she assured her secretary. "My life isn't over. I'm just starting a new chapter. Not the one I expected to be starting, but how often do we get exactly what we expect?" ~ within Chapter 10

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

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

Thursday, January 29, 2015

Blog Tour - A Perfect Catch by Anna Sugden | Spreading the Word & Gift Card/Novel Giveaways

Today I'm turning my blog over to Anna Sugden author of "A Perfect Catch," which happens to be the THIRD BOOK in her New Jersey Ice Cats 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 will run TODAY -- January 29, 2015 -- Giveaway will run until January 31, 2015]

"A Perfect Catch"
[New Jersey Ice Cats Series, Book 3] by Anna Sugden
Author's Book Description :

He's the perfect catch...for now!

Book Series Links :

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Harlequin

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

About the Author :

Harlequin SuperRomance author, Anna Sugden, loves reading and writing happy endings as much as hockey! When not reading or watching hockey, she loves football, good food & wine, making simple cross-stitch projects, and collecting memorabilia, penguins and fab shoes!

A former marketing executive and primary teacher, Anna lives in Cambridge, England, with her husband and two bossy black cats. Learn more about Anna, her heart-warming romances and her shoes at www.annasugden.com. You can also follow her on Facebook (www.facebook.com/annasugden.romanceauthor), Twitter (www.twitter.com/annasugden) Pinterest (www.pinterest.com/annasugden) and on the Romance Bandits blog (www.romancebandits.com)

Book Excerpt :

Ike swore as he wiped down his sweater and jeans with his handkerchief. From the heat around his zipper, the coffee had got too close to the family jewels for comfort.

Tracy Hayden had been a major pain in his ass from the moment she’d strutted into his life on those killer legs. With a toss of her dark hair and a glint in her brown eyes, she’d challenged him in every way. Still did. Damn woman was as irritating as grit in an oyster, except he never got a pearl. That said, a coffee shower was a first.

“I should apologize.” Tracy’s crisp tone, which emphasized her still-strong English accent, was grudging.

“Why bother, if you don’t mean it?” He stripped off his sweater. Beneath it, his T-shirt was damp but wearable. “I thought the one thing we had left was honesty.”

Her gaze lingered on his chest before flicking up to meet his. Color tinged her cheeks. “You’re right. Your remark was uncalled for, but I reacted badly.”

His conscience pricked him, taking the edge off his anger. It was partly—okay, largely—his fault. One minute Tracy had been cooing over her nephew and the next she was desperately checking her phone. Since she’d just told Maggie that every-thing was under control, what could be so freaking important?

Ike hadn’t deliberately followed Tracy into the waiting room. The cozy family image Jake, Maggie and Joe had presented had scraped on his already raw nerves, reminding him of the life he’d once hoped he could have with Tracy and making the hospital room feel claustrophobic. He’d escaped to get some air. He’d been surprised to find Tracy by the coffee machine and had nearly turned back. But then he’d seen that damn wiggle. That sexy hip-shimmy she always did when she was happy. The one that always fired up his pulse—and his groin.

He’d barely got himself under control when she’d spilled coffee on her hand. He’d wanted to kiss the burn better. The thought of putting his lips on her had sent desire rocketing through his body once more. Frustration had fuelled his annoyance. After all this time, he hated that he was still so pathetically affected by her, while all she felt for him was aggravation. And he’d snapped.

“No harm done,” he said stiffly. “I should apologize, too.”

“Okay.” Tracy dropped her empty cup in the trash and turned back to the coffee machine.

As she tapped in her selection, Ike stifled the urge to offer to buy her a drink. He turned to go when her voice stopped him.

“I know you won’t believe this, but I wouldn’t ordinarily let business intrude on such a special occasion.”

“So why the exception?” He was pleased his question held no hint of his skepticism.

“It was a time-sensitive issue.”

“Aren’t they all?”

“I suppose so.” Tracy smiled ruefully as she collected her drink. “But in this case, it would have been a costly mistake. The Bridgers are a major client.”

He frowned, unsure how one phone call could be that important. Unless she’d been about to lose the soccer team as a client. “Is Making Your Move in trouble?”

“Not at all. In fact I’m trying to broaden the range of services we offer with the new Helping Hands package.” Tracy explained the extra support her company wanted to give players and their families.

Ike obviously had a different definition of emergency. If her company had been struggling, he’d have understood. But how could adding business when her company was already successful be more important than celebrating a new member of the family?

Don’t go there.

What was the point? It would only lead to another fight and he probably wouldn’t survive another dousing unscathed. Besides, all of this only reinforced what he already knew—the two of them would never work. He couldn’t be with someone who put work ahead of everything and everyone else. He sure as hell wouldn’t compete with a woman’s career.

Giveaways!! :

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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

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

Find Anna Sugden :

Tuesday, January 27, 2015

Blog Tour - Bridges Burned by Chris Cannon | Spreading the Word

Today I'm turning my blog over to Chris Cannon author of "Bridges Burned," which is the SECOND novel in her Going Down In Flames Series!! [Blog Tour will run from January 27, 2015]

"Bridges Burned"
[Going Down In Flames Series, Book 2] by Chris Cannon
Author's Book Description :

Don’t just fight the system...burn it.

isn’t

quite

change

This book is available to order on :

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

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

About the Author :

Chris Cannon lives in Southern Illinois with her husband and her three dogs, Pete the shih tzu who sleeps on her desk while she writes, Molly the ever-shedding yellow lab, and Tyson the sandwich-stealing German Shepherd Beagle. She believes coffee is the Elixir of Life. Most evenings after work, you can find her sucking down caffeine and writing fire-breathing paranormal adventures. "Going Down In Flames" is the first book in Chris Cannon's shape-shifting dragon series.

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

My Previous Mention(s) of this Author's Books/Characters : Spreading the Word for Entangled Teen with 2 Novels by Karri Thompson & Chris Cannon

Book Excerpt :

On the drive back to school, Bryn reflected on how her life had recently gone to hell. It had all started when flames shot out of her mouth on her sixteenth birthday, proving she wasn’t completely human. Since then she’d been shipped off to a secret school for dragons—the Institute for Excellence—where she was learning how to control her shape-shifting dragon powers. She’d faced discrimination, death threats, and poisoning. She’d been blown up and involved in a battle to the death with a radical Revisionist member—and she’d been there for only a few months. Though not everything about her new life was bad. She had a sexy boyfriend, Black dragon Zavien Blackthorn, and two good friends, Clint and Ivy. Being a crossbred dragon meant she had both the Red and Blue dragons’ breath weapons, fire and ice, and even though she was the only crossbreed, she could still outfly even the fastest Blue. Of course, that’s why some of the other Clans hated her. She’d upset the natural order of things in this color-coded world, where the Directorate dictated what Red, Black, Green, Orange, and Blue dragon Clan members could do as a profession and whom they could marry. It was absurd. Yet most dragons didn’t question it.
Part of Zavien’s appeal lay in the fact that he headed up the student Revisionist group that petitioned the Directorate to change out dated laws. Bryn glanced at Directorate lawyer Merrick Overton, who was driving the Cadillac SUV hybrid she was riding in. Her classmate and former nemesis Jaxon Westgate rode shotgun. She and Jaxon no longer hated each other. Scratch that: he no longer hated her based on his father’s vendetta against her mother, but that didn’t mean they were friends. Funny how saving someone’s life could turn you from enemies to...what? Not friends. Frenemies, maybe? Who knew? It’s not like she wanted to hang out with him, but there was a weird level of trust between them now that she didn’t know what to do with.

Find Chris Cannon :

Monday, January 26, 2015

Blog Tour - Made the Grade: Beyond All Dreams by Elizabeth Camden | Review, Kindle Fire Giveaway & Facebook Party

Today I'm turning my blog over to Elizabeth Camden, with a review of her latest release "Beyond All Dreams!!"

ALSO -- Be sure to sign up for this tour's GIVEAWAY(s) (listed below)!! [Blog Tour will run from January 26 - February 17, 2015 | Giveaway ends on February 17, 2015 | Elizabeth's "Beyond All Dreams" Author Chat Party on Facebook is on February 17, 2015]

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Hardcover - Pages: 546, Paperback - Pages: 369; Kindle Edition - File Size: 4070 KB | Expected Release Date: December 30, 2014 | Publisher: Baker Publishing Group : Bethany House Publishers | Obtained: Litfuse Publicity Group / NetGalley

"Beyond All Dreams" by Elizabeth Camden

Author's Book Description : Is bringing the truth to light worth risking all they’ve ever dreamed for their futures?

Anna O’Brien leads a predictable and quiet life as a map librarian at the illustrious Library of Congress until she stumbles across the baffling mystery of a ship disappeared at sea. Thwarted in her attempts to uncover information, her determination outweighs her shyness and she turns to a dashing congressman for help.

Luke Callahan was one of the nation’s most powerful congressmen before his promising career was shadowed in scandal. Eager to share in a new cause and intrigued by the winsome librarian, he joins forces with Anna to solve the mystery of the lost ship. Opposites in every way, Anna and Luke are unexpectedly drawn to each other despite the strict rules forbidding Anna from any romantic entanglements with members of Congress.

From the gilded halls of the Capitol where powerful men shape the future of the nation, to the scholarly archives of the nation’s finest library, Anna and Luke are soon embroiled in secrets much bigger and more perilous than they ever imagined. Is bringing the truth to light worth risking all they’ve ever dreamed for their futures?

My Book Review : 3 out of 5 stars! A young up-and-coming Congressman from Maine and a female Library of Congress map librarian's path cross. One dreams of things being peaceful everywhere and hopes to be the one to make it happen. The other hopes to uncover what truly happened to her father after finding a false report. Together they should be able to get through anything but will they be able to trust each other enough to see their dreams through to the end?

This novel is for Ancestry and Historical Romance lovers! Because it follows historical events really well, while throwing enough flirtation between Luke & Anna in the mix to keep you intrigued. In addition, because of Anna being a map librarian she is determined to get to the truth of everything no matter the consequences because she feels that the documents in the Library of Congress should be completely accurate as possible since you never know how future generations will look at that document and do with it later. Since Anna feels that way it made me really like her as a character, as I've been a genealogist for my family since 1999 and I completely understand where she was coming from. To top off my love for the characters I find out that Luke is a Congressman from Maine and I'm originally from Maine so yeah I found that pretty cool too.

Together I found I liked and respected Luke & Anna, where they were coming from because of their pasts to how they grew into their romantic relationship. Through it all, they were very sweet and accepting of one another. Also, it was fun reading their bantering. However, what really ruined my love for this novel was when Luke found out the real reason behind the false report and acted completely cold to Anna. I understand his temper, and I could have gotten over everything if he tried to work things out a bit quicker. Yet a few hours before finding out the truth, he talks about marriage then after he learns the truth, he acts like he doesn't even know her. Yes, he was protecting her in his own way but I just didn't like it and it made it hard for me to like the novel as I previously did. Nevertheless, with that being said I still like them together, how everything worked out between them, and the novel itself.

I recommend this novel to those who like doing Ancestry and/or like reading Historical romances!!

Purchase This Book Here : Kobo (e-Book)

Author's Novel Extras : Pinterest: Beyond All Dreams | Beyond All Dreams | Beyond All Dreams Sneak Peek

Book Teaser(s) :

"I can bring you a chisel and a clay tablet if you'd prefer. I believe they have some in the museum."
He set the pen down and fastened that enigmatic gaze on her. "Yes, please."
"Yes please . . . what?"
"I'd prefer a chisel and a clay tablet. You see, Miss O'Brien, I like old things. I prefer the challenge of a time when men went out and killed something when they were hungry, rather than opening a tin of processed meat. I don't want perfumed soap and a trickle of water from a copper pipe. I want a healthy blast from a frigid New England waterfall. I don't want the tinny noise from a gramophone. I want the thunder and vibrations of a real orchestra pounding out a Beethoven symphony. Technology has made us soft. I like hard muscle and loud voices and the satisfaction of a sweaty day of labor."
"You wear sparkly jewelry," she countered.
"I wear rocks hauled out of the land I own. Trophies, if you will." His eyes gleamed, and he looked flushed with health and vigor. Standing this close to him, she barely reached his shoulder, and his enthusiasm was palpable.
She held up the slim pen. "This is a trophy of modern times. If you'd like to fill out a research request, it is the device you will need to use."
"Miss O'Brien," she said in a long, slow drawl. "You don't think I intend to fill out that ridiculous slip of paper, do you?"
"I'm going to assume that was a rhetorical question and you aren't really expecting an answer." ~ within Chapter 3

"Will you go for a walk with me?"
"Not unless you calm down. I generally don't walk alongside men with homicidal interests in poison." ~ within Chapter 8

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

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

About the Author :

A research librarian and associate professor, Elizabeth Camden has a master’s in history from the University of Virginia and a master’s in library science from Indiana University. She has published several articles for academic publications and is the author of four nonfiction history books. Her ongoing fascination with history and love of literature have led her to write inspirational fiction. Elizabeth lives with her husband in central Florida.

Giveaway(s)!! :

Travel back in time to the U.S. Capitol and the Library of Congress in Elizabeth Camden's newest release, "Beyond All Dreams." From the gilded halls of the Capitol where powerful men shape the future of the nation, to the scholarly archives of the nation's finest library, Anna and Luke are soon embroiled in secrets much bigger and more perilous than they ever imagined. Is bringing the truth to light worth risking all they've ever dreamed for their futures?

Elizabeth is celebrating the release of "Beyond All Dreams" with a Kindle giveaway and Facebook party on February 17.

One grand prize winner will receive :

A Kindle Fire
A copy of "Beyond All Dreams" by Elizabeth Camden

To Enter : Enter today by clicking the icon below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on 2/17. Winner will be announced at the "Beyond All Dreams" Facebook author chat party on February 17th. RSVP for a chance to connect with Elizabeth and historical fiction fans, as well as for the opportunity to win some great prizes!

{NOT ON FACEBOOK? ENTER HERE.}
Don't miss a moment of the fun; RSVP TODAY. Tell your friends via FACEBOOK, TWITTER, and/or PINTEREST to increase your chances of winning. Hope to see you on the 17th!

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

Find Elizabeth Camden :

Saturday, January 24, 2015

Second Sentence Saturday: Huckleberry Spring

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

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 :

"Huckleberry Spring" [The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill Series, Book 4] by Jennifer Beckstrand

"Take your pick, Felty," Anna said sweetly, plopping herself into her rocker and scooping up her knitting.

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!

Friday, January 23, 2015

Blog Tour - Idolizing In: Huckleberry Spring by Jennifer Beckstrand | Review

Today I'm turning my blog over to Jennifer Beckstrand, with a review of her latest novel "Huckleberry Spring," which is the FORTH novel in her The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill Series!!

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Paperback - Pages: 352; Kindle Edition - File Size: 1128 KB | Release Date: January 27, 2015 | Publisher: Kensington : Zebra Books | Obtained: Pump Up Your Book / NetGalley

"Huckleberry Spring" [The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill Series, Book 4] by Jennifer Beckstrand

Author's Book Description : Ever since the Helmuths’ grandson, Ben, abruptly broke his engagement and moved to Florida, Emma Nelson has kept busy tending her vegetable garden and raising award-winning pumpkins. She can put her heartache aside to help Ben’s mammi with her own pumpkin patch. At least until Ben shows up to lend support to his ailing dawdi...

Gardening side by side with pretty, nurturing Emma is a sweet kind of torture for Ben. She could have her pick of suitors who can offer what he can’t, and he cares too much to burden her with his secret. Leaving once more is the only option. Yet Emma’s courage is daring him to accept the grace that flourishes here, and the love that has been calling him back to Huckleberry Hill.

“The much-loved matchmaker Anna Helmuth is back! Beckstrand is an amazing, talented author who gives the over-used matchmaking trope a fresh twist. The characters are sweet and caring, and the storyline runs smoothly.” - RT Book Reviews, 4.5 Stars

My Book Review : 5 out of 5 stars!! Anna & Felty are match making again! Only this time Felty is being pulled through the ringer just to keep his grandson living with them. Poor thing. Together they try to get Ben & Emma back together again but because of one big secret and a bunch of lies, it might be a harder job than Anna originally planned. But she won't give up without a fight ... and Felty's wise words of course.

I really enjoyed this dramatically touching novel. Anna's quirky ways were all fun to read about but I also liked how sweet Ben was and how determined Emma is to see everything through. All of it put my emotions through the ringer by laughing one moment to getting mopey the next. In addition, even though I guessed that the main reason for Ben & Emma being apart was because of something bad to do with Ben I never would have guessed the truth. With one twist after another, I didn't want it to end. However, alas, it had to end and I LOVED the way Ben & Emma's romance wrapped up!! They are just so sweet together and more passionate then I'm use to reading in Amish romances that it made me pleasantly surprised.

Other than the fact I really disliked Adam (Emma's "tester boyfriend") and Emma's mother, I enjoyed this novel tremendously! Therefore, I HIGHLY recommend this novel and series to those who like Amish Christian romances!

Purchase This Book and/or The Other Books From It's Series Here : Kobo (e-Book) : Huckleberry Hill | Alibris (Paperback) : Huckleberry Hill | Kobo (e-Book) : Huckleberry Summer | Alibris (Paperback) : Huckleberry Summer | Kobo (e-Book) : Huckleberry Christmas | Alibris (Paperback) : Huckleberry Christmas | Kobo (e-Book) : A Perfect Amish Christmas | Kobo (e-Book) : Huckleberry Spring | Kobo (e-Book) : Huckleberry Harvest

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

Author's Series Extras : Huckleberry Hill Reviews | Huckleberry Summer Reviews | My near-death experience, or Does anyone have a good meatball recipe? | My trip to Wisconsin Amish Country! | Huckleberry Hill and a few of my favorite things | Amish Authors Break Their Silence | Teenage boys and raisin pie | Ask an Amish author about books and such... | Recipes and Hilarious Food Disasters | Writing process blog tour | Recipe for Amish Layered Jell-O Salad

Book Teaser(s) :

"Now, Felty," Mammi said, the scold rising in her voice, "there will be no talk of getting better."
Ben raised his eyebrows. Mammi certainly had a peculiar way of nursing her husband back to health. But Ben couldn't argue with it. Mammi and Dawdi had been together for over sixty years. Mammi knew better how to care for Dawdi than anyone. If Dawdi needed words of discouragement, who was Ben to question her methods.
Mammi tried to read the tiny directions on the pill bottle label. "Stuff and nonsense. Where are my glasses?" She handed the bottle back to him. "What does it say, dear?"
"Take one every six to eight hours as needed for pain."
Ben handed Mammi one pill, feeling guilty for conspiring against Dawdi. Mammi filled a glass with water and took it to Dawdi.
Ben tried to smooth things over with Dawdi. "The doctor said you'll heal faster if you take something for the pain. It helps reduce the inflammation."
Mammi snapped her head around to look at Ben and stopped in her tracks. "He did say that, didn't he?" She reversed direction, away from Dawdi's chair. "Never mind, then."
Felty held out his hand with a smug look on his half-covered face. "Come here, Annie Banannie. I'll have my pill now."
Ben pressed his lips tightly together to keep from chuckling. Had Mammi tricked Dawdi into taking a pill, or had she really changed her mind? Maybe she was way more clever than Ben could ever hope to be.
Sixty years of marriage was no small thing. ~ within Chapter 5

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

About the Author :

I grew up with a steady diet of William Shakespeare and Jane Austen. After all that literary immersion, I naturally decided to get a degree in mathematics, which came in handy when one of my six children needed help with homework. After my fourth daughter was born, I started writing. By juggling diaper changes, soccer games, music lessons, laundry, and two more children, I finished my first manuscript—a Western—in just under fourteen years.

I have always been fascinated by the Amish way of life and now write Inspirational Amish Romance. I am drawn to the strong faith of the Plain people and admire the importance they put on enduring family ties. I have visited and studied Amish communities in Pennsylvania and Wisconsin where I met with a bishop and a minister as well as several Amish mamms, dats, and children. It has always impressed me at what salt-of-the-earth people they are. My interactions with these kind people have been some of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I have a dear Amish friend with whom I correspond in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. She helps me keep my facts straight and gives me inspiration for my stories.

My goal is to write uplifting, inspiring stories with happy endings and hopeful messages. If my books make readers want to give themselves a big hug or jump up and down for joy, I’ve done my job. I am a member of Romance Writers of America and American Christian Fiction Writers and am represented by Mary Sue Seymour of The Seymour Agency.

There are three Amish romances in the Forever After in Apple Lake Series (Summerside/Guideposts). "Kate’s Song," "Rebecca’s Rose," and "Miriam’s Quilt" are all now available.

I have six Amish Roamish buggymances in the works with Kensington Books. The first and second books, "Huckleberry Hill" and "Huckleberry Summer," are now available in stores and online. The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill is set in northern Wisconsin Amish country.

The series, The Matchmakers of Huckleberry Hill, is about an elderly Amish couple who try to find suitable mates for their grandchildren. What could be more fun than throwing two young people together to see if sparks ignite? No one would ever suspect two octogenarian Amish folks of mischief.

Romantic Times gave "Huckleberry Hill" 4 1/2 stars and chose "Huckleberry Summer" as a TOP PICK.

I have four daughters, two sons, three sons-in-law, and two adorable grandsons. I live in the foothills of the Wasatch Front with my husband and one son still left at home.

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

Find Jennifer Beckstrand :

Blog Tour - Rekindled Desires by Debbie Macarter | Spreading the Word & Novel/Kindle Giveaways

Today I'm turning my blog over to Debbie Macarter author of "Rekindled Desires!!"

ALSO -- Be sure to check out Rafflecopter at the bottom of this post to be able to sign up for this blog stop's GIVEAWAY!! [Blog Tour & Giveaway will run from January 22 - February 22, 2015]

"Rekindled Desires"
by Debbie Macarter
Author's Book Description :

Rekindled Desires

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

About the Author :

Debbie is an aspiring writer who loves writing steamy romance. She lives in New York with her husband and Debbie, her lovely cat. She prefers writing at night, especially when the stars are out. Marie has always had a passion for romance; even as a child, she loved hearing about steamy love stories and impossible relationships. Instead of asking her parents to read her a story at night, she preferred coming up with wild love tales herself. Writing a romance series has always been Debbie’s dream, and she is excited to be able to share her passion with others.

Book Excerpt :

How long had he denied himself the simple pleasure of being with a woman? Months? A year? That was insane. He was making himself a promise to end this celibacy as soon as he got out of this old-fashioned formality. The easy catch would be, of course, the bridesmaid. They were always ready for a little adventure, weren’t they? But this was out of the question. He must be content, polite, and utterly boring today.

But something inside of him just could not stop remembering the voice of that woman he was watching earlier, standing in the middle of this tropical garden with the flowers that produced amazing, exotic, almost seductive scents. Some feeling of déjà vu would not let go.

His gut was telling him that his life was missing something, something very important.

Family. This was a family gathering.

The wedding represented the birth of a family and he was desperately alone. At twenty-eight, Austin was in his prime. Physically he was in perfect shape. Financially, he was very stable. He was ready to have someone significant in his life. He was ready to give himself. This was something he had never felt before.

How could Roman do this when he was so young?

It must be the old money, the sense of security, something Austin had had to build wealth on his own. He was proud of it. Preoccupied with his growing businesses and success, he tended to put his private life aside.

Did he even have a life beyond work?

He wanted to become a family man, to tie himself to a wife and a bunch of kids. He had never before felt compelled to care for anyone, except himself. He had little idea how to do that in the first place. He’d never experienced what a family really meant…until today.

Was it realistic to be so much in love that Rom wanted to marry when he was barely twenty? Austin had been twenty not so long ago. He remembered what he’d been like back then vividly. His chest clenched with regret as he remembered the young girl, that innocent soul he cruelly pushed away. How could he possibly have resisted that goddess-like body she’d thrown at him? But he’d been so self-centered and not capable of any kind of relationship at that time, never mind love. For so long, the sweet form of that girl who’d foolishly confessed her love for him had kept appearing in his dreams…

He had not wanted to be responsible for her broken heart. So he had just disappeared from her life and made sure she knew nothing about him anymore. It was better for her. She should have forgotten about him forever.

Giveaway(s)!! :

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 Debbie Macarter :

Saturday, January 17, 2015

Idolizing In: Cowboy Country Series, Book 2

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Paperback - Pages: 224; Kindle Edition - File Size: ??? KB | Expected Release Date: February 17, 2015 | Publisher: Harlequin : Love Inspired | Obtained: NetGalley

"The Cowboy's Forever Family" [Cowboy Country Series, Book 2] by Deb Kastner

Author's Book Description : His Best Friend's Baby

Widowed and pregnant, Laney Beckett wants nothing to do with stubborn rodeo cowboy Slade McKenna. But avoiding her late husband's best friend is nearly impossible now that Slade thinks Laney and her baby need his protection. Though Slade figures he's too rough a man to settle down, his thrill-seeking ways have already cost him his childhood pal. Looking out for the man's wife and child is the least he can do, especially when headstrong Laney doesn't know the first thing about running the family's ranch. For the sake of baby Beckett, Laney and Slade give friendship a chance...but could they become a true family?

Cowboy Country: Surprise babies lead to unexpected love in Texas

My Book Review : 5 out of 5 stars!! In a bull riding accident a man loses his life, afterwards it makes his wife and best friend become friends too as they work to help each other out no matter their differences.

I was surprised with the outright animosity between Slade & Laney (Princess) when this novel began. However, what hooked me was how their relationship, and novel, progresses. It's sweetly touching how Slade tries to do right by his friend and Laney tries to honor her husband (who she barely knew) by moving into his family home trying to help with his ranch.

I HIGHLY recommend this novel for those who like Christian cowboy romances!

Purchase This Book and/or The Other Books From It's Series Here : Kobo : Yuletide Baby | Kobo : The Cowboy's Forever Family

Book Teaser(s) :

"How did this happen?" His voice was low and icy.
"Excuse me?" Both of her eyebrows arched, disappearing under her hairline. If Slade didn't know the facts of life she certainly wasn't going to be the one to explain them to him. The very idea was laughable. ~ within Chapter 1

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

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

Thursday, January 15, 2015

Blog Tour - Rekindled Desires by Debbie Macarter | Cover Reveal, Spreading the Word & Novel/Kindle Giveaways

"Rekindled Desires"
by Debbie Macarter
Author's Book Description :

Rekindled Desires

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

Giveaway(s)!! :

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 Debbie Macarter :

Wednesday, January 14, 2015

Made the Grade: Dark Kings Series, Books 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, & 0.4

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Paperback - Pages: 447; Kindle Edition - File Size: 947 KB; Audiobook - Unabridged | Expected Release Date: December 31, 2013 | Publisher: St. Martin's Press : Paperbacks | Obtained: NetGalley

"Dark Heat" [Dark Kings Series, Books 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, & 0.4] by Donna Grant

Authors' Book Description : The Dark Kings are sworn to defend an ancient legacy of dragon magic. But their fiercest challenge lies in the modern world, where a woman’s love conquers all. These are their stories.

Dark Craving
Fueled by ancient magic—and enflamed by human desire—the Dragon King known as Hal can transform himself at will into one of the legendary winged creatures he is sworn to protect. But one thing he can never do is fall in love…with a mortal woman.

Night’s Awakening
The dark immortal warriors were never meant to experience human desire. But when Guy, a member of an ancient order of shape-shifting warriors, meets Elena—a mere mortal whose beauty and blind ambition shakes him to his core—all bets are off...

Dawn’s Desire
For centuries, the Dragon Kings have hidden their shapeshifting powers from the world. But when a mortal enemy threatens to expose them, the warrior Banan must leave his secret lair in the Highlands to risk his life for the dragons within—and resist the temptations of human love.

Passion’s Claim
Banan has been waiting for centuries for someone like Jane. Guy knew it was love at first sight with Elena. Can two Dragon Kings commit to two immortal women for eternity? Or does fate have something else in store?

"Dark Craving" [Dark Heat Anthology, Novella 1] & [Dark Kings Series, Book 0.1]

Author's Story Description : Fueled by ancient magic—and enflamed by human desire—the Dragon King known as Hal can transform himself at will into one of the legendary winged creatures he is sworn to protect. But one thing he can never do is fall in love...with a mortal woman.

Searching for her brother in Scotland—and succumbing to the freezing cold—Cassie Hunter awakens to find herself in the arms of a magnificent Highland warrior. Across his chest is the tattoo of a fiery dragon. And in his heart is a burning passion that, once unleashed, will consume them both...body and soul.

This is a story of destiny and desire, magic and mystery, warriors and lovers.

These are the forbidden cravings of the Dark Kings.

My Story Review : 4 out of 5 stars! Looking for a new beginning, a woman moves to Scotland to be closer to her brother and ends up getting more than she bargained for with her hot new neighbor!

It’s a great start to this series! I liked how “self-involved” it was, meaning the only danger this novella had was the main characters (along with their friends/comrades assistance) messing up their own love lives. Haldor (Hal) and Cassie are a very sweet couple, who’s story I enjoyed in its simplicity. It was also interesting reading about Constantine (Con) in a “fatherly figure” role, it made for entertaining and dramatic scenes.

Purchase This Story Here : AMAZON.COM | KOBO

Author's Story Extras : Dark Craving - Overview | Dark Craving - Fun Notes | Dark Craving - Learn More About Hal!

Story Teaser :

"I'm not sure if I'm ready for this," she said to Duke. "I haven't slept in thirty-six hours, I'm freezing, and I'm driving a stick. On the wrong side of the road. This is a really shitty day, Duke."
In answer, he nudged his large head against her shoulder. She smiled and scratched him behind the ear.
Her morale fortified--by a dog--Cassie started the car and headed out on the M90 north toward Perth. ~ within Chapter 1

"Night’s Awakening" [Dark Heat Anthology, Novella 2] & [Dark Kings Series, Book 0.2]

Author's Story Description : Fueled by dragon magic, the dark immortal warriors were never meant to feel human desire, much less fall in love. But when Guy, a member of an ancient order of shape-shifting warriors, meets Elena Griffin—a mere mortal whose beauty and blind ambition shakes him to his core—all bets are off...

Having left America to explore the Scottish Highlands, Elena suddenly finds herself lost in a dark cave—alone, injured, and utterly hopeless...until Guy appears from out of nowhere. Is she dreaming her own rescue when she falls into his arms? A man—and a passion—this strong is too good to be true. It’s only a matter a time before she learns the truth about the flames in his heart. And the dragon in his soul...

My Story Review : 3 out of 5 stars! A woman’s boss cons her into caving on the dragons’ private property and during the excursion she gets herself into serious danger, but once Guy finds her will her world turn out for the better or worse?

This novella was a hard one to completely fall for. I felt that way mostly because even though I liked Guy & Elena’s growing relationship instead of being mostly about them it was more about the storyline of the series and based around that. Nevertheless, in regards to Guy & Elena, I enjoyed how quickly they responded to one another and while Elena showed a few indecisive traits, I was happy with how swiftly she decided that Guy was the one for her.

Purchase This Story Here : AMAZON.COM | KOBO

Author's Story Extras : Night’s Awakening - Overview | Night’s Awakening - Excerpt | Night’s Awakening - Learn More About Guy!

Story Teaser :

Right before he went over the side, she giggled.
"Something amusing?" he asked.
"I was just thinking of Jurassic Park, where the little girl was in this same position and she choked Dr. Grant." Elena laughed harder. "She was so scared of falling, and of the T. rex, of course, that she didn't know she was choking him."
"Well, let's no' choke me, shall we?" ~ within Chapter 3

"Dawn’s Desire" [Dark Heat Anthology, Novella 3] & [Dark Kings Series, Book 0.3]

Author's Story Description : For centuries, the immortals knows as the Dragon Kings have hidden their shapeshifting powers from the world. But when a mortal enemy threatens to expose them, the warrior Banan must leave his secret lair in the Highlands, risk his life for the dragons within – and resist the temptations of human love...

Jane Holden has never considered herself beautiful. But when the impossibly handsome Banan casts his gaze upon her, smoldering with sensuality, she feels like the sexiest woman on earth. Banan, however, is a man on a mission. He refuses to succumb to this modern woman’s charms – or his own desires. Two of his warrior brethren have already surrendered to forbidden love. But as the danger closes in, Banan realizes that he needs to possess Jane – mind, body, and soul. For she is more than his match. She is his destiny...

My Story Review : THIS NOVELLA WAS A REREAD:: Then (December 2012): 4 out of 5 stars | Now (January 2015): 4 out of 5 stars! Being a klutz and typically being looked over had never felt like positives to Jane until danger seems to slowly surround her, thankfully she unknowingly has one hot Dragon King looking over her. Hopefully, she’ll be able to handle and deal with the fallout once all the secrets are out in the open...

I’m very happy that I reread this novella since it made so much more since while reading it as a part of the series. I still enjoyed reading about Banan and his sweetly growing relationship to Jane, again. [READ MY PREVIOUS FULL REVIEW]

Purchase This Story Here : AMAZON.COM | KOBO

Author's Story Extras : Dawn’s Desire - Overview | Dawn’s Desire - Excerpt | Dawn’s Desire - Learn More About Banan!

Story Teaser :

There was a soft knock on the door, and then it opened. Banan glanced behind him to see Rhys fill the doorway.
"Whoever that was willna be bothering you again," Rhys said to Jane.
There was a pause as Jane pulled both the knife and the pepper spray from her purse. She released the purse and flipped the knife open so that she held a weapon in each hand.
"Ah ... Banan, what's going on?" Rhys asked as he softly closed the door behind him.
Jane lifted the Mace toward Rhys. "Stop right where you are. I didn't invite you, and I don't want you up here."
"I've made a muck of things," Banan answered Rhys. ~ within Chapter 5

Teaser #2 ~ within Chapter 6

"Passion’s Claim" [Dark Heat Anthology, Novella 4] & [Dark Kings Series, Book 0.4]

Author's Story Description : Banan has been waiting for centuries for someone like Jane. Guy knew it was love at first sight with Elena. Can two Dragon Kings commit to two immortal women for eternity? Or does fate have something else in store?

My Story Review : For the full story I'm giving it 3 out of 5 stars it wraps up both novella's #2 & #3.

Part 1 – 3.5 out of 5 stars, Banan (being such the charmer he is) romantically proposes and binds himself to Jane in this sweet novella.

Part 2 – 2.5 out of 5 stars. Talk about communication issues! Guy is giving up on his feelings for Elena so she can have the happiness he thinks she deserves, if only he told her his reasoning before tensions between them had escalated. Yet, I’m happy I read about their bonding too even if it had dramatic results.

Story Teaser :

"You're thinking of stripping off my clothes."
"Oh, aye. I'm thinking of much more than that."
"I know," she murmured. "It's written all over your face when you look at me like that."
"I thought you liked it."
"I don't like it, Banan. I love it." ~ within Part 1 - Chapter 2

My Book Review : For the full book, I’m giving it 3.4 out of 5 stars!! I had originally only read "Dawn’s Desire," because I liked its book description the best, a few years ago and now that I've read all of the novellas prior to the full series I feel like I get the gist of this series even more. Plus I enjoyed getting to know Cassie, Hal, Elena, & Guy while getting to read more of Banan & Jane! Very cute, I'm interested to see where this series will go next!

I recommend this novel (and its individual novellas) to anyone who is a fan of Ms. Grant and/or to those who like paranormal romances!

Purchase This Book Here : Kobo (e-Book) : Dark Heat | Alibris (Paperback) : Dark Heat

My Previous Review(s) for this Series : Book 0.3

My Previous Review(s) for this Author : Midnight's Surrender

My Previous Mention(s) of this Author's Books/Characters : "Waiting On" Wednesday: Dawn’s Desire | Best Book Couples -- Happy Valentine's Day 2013 | Best Book Couples -- Happy Valentine's Day 2014

Author's Novel Extras : Dark Heat - Overview | Dark Heat - Excerpt

Book Teaser(s) :

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

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