Thursday, June 12, 2014

Feasted On: Hometown Heroes Series, Book 1

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 905 KB | Expected Release Date: June 16, 2014 | Publisher: Entangled Publishing : Bliss | Obtained: Entangled Publishing

"Taming the Country Star" [Hometown Heroes Series, Book 1] by Margo Bond Collins

Author's Book Description : He’ll do anything to win her heart. She’ll do anything to keep him away. Country star Cole Grayson is in town, and Kylie Andrews is less than thrilled.

As if months of changing the radio station and tearing down his posters weren’t bad enough, now she has to deal with a town of fans swarming toward the man who deceived her the year before. But when Kylie’s eyes meet Coles again, she cant deny the electric chemistry that drew her to him the first time around. Cole Grayson is on a mission. Ever since Kylie left him, he hasn’t been able to forget her sweet country smile.

After writing a song just for her, he sets off for her hometown to prove he’s not the player she thinks he is. But as much as Cole cant forget her, Kylie wonders if she can forgive him.

My Book Review : 4 out of 5 stars! Cole & Kylie had a "fling" over a year ago while they were both on vacation, since then they haven't been able to get forget about their time together or how much they wish it could have turned into something more. Therefore, when Cole arrives in Kylie's town for his next performance he makes certain that he'll find a way to get them back together. When he sees her, again their connection is undeniable but will Kylie's past and her fear of repeating history ruin their reunion or will they find a way to overcome her concerns...

Together these two are able to reconnect and deal with their differences in a ways that make for such a fun sweet read. For such a quick read, I loved how this novel was able to fill the reader in about Kylie & Cole's shared past without loosing its flow. In addition, I like how determined Kylie was about not turning into her mother by taking her fears head on and after dealing with her brief panic over her concerns, she finds a way to deal with the rapid changes that go on in her life.

I just couldn't get enough of them. I can't wait to see where this series will go next and maybe (at some point) Kylie's friend LeeAnn will find her own "hometown hero" too!

I recommend this to anyone looking for a fun quick slightly erotic contemporary romance!

Purchase This Book Here :

Author's Novel Extras : Fort Worth, Texas ~ Cowboy Charm: Springtime in the Country Blog Hop Giveaway

Author's Book Trailer :

Book Teaser(s) :
But her friend was no longer listening. Instead, she stared over Kylie’s shoulder toward the entrance. “It’s almost a hundred degrees outside,” she said. “So why is that guy all wrapped up in a serape?”
Turning to follow LeeAnn’s gaze, Kylie caught sight of a man standing outside the door, peering in. He was draped in a Mexican-style blanket, a dark-brown Stetson pulled low over the sunglasses covering his eyes. He balanced a carryout tray with two Starbucks coffee cups on it.
“Does he think he’s Clint Eastwood?” LeeAnn asked.
“Worse,” Kylie responded with a sigh. “He thinks he’s in disguise.” When her friend shot a puzzled look her direction, Kylie explained. “I’m pretty sure that’s Cole.” ~ within Chapter 4
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Margo, then please check out her website.

Wednesday, June 11, 2014

Rumspringa’s Hope by Beth Shriver | Spreading the Word & Kindle Fire Giveaway

"Rumspringa’s Hope"
[The Spirit of the Amish Series, Book 1] by Beth Shriver

Author's Book Description :
    Torn between the affections of two men, will Emma's time away from home help her choose? Although promised to the widowed neighbor Zeb, Emma is considering leaving her Amish community to watch over her younger brother Mark when he leaves for Philadelphia to explore the outside world during his Rumspringa. There, she reconnects with her former beau Caleb, who protects the Amish teens, introducing them to his life evangelizing and helping the homeless. Unbeknownst to Emma, Caleb is glad for the opportunity to spend time with her and hopes to win her back. Struck by the power of evangelism and outreach, Emma begins to feel a draw to Caleb's way of life. When she doesn’t return home when she promised, Zeb goes to the city to find her, forcing Emma to choose in which of their two worlds she really belongs. SERIES DESCRIPTION: Three young Amish women face overwhelming obstacles and must struggle to find out who they are and what they believe. Although each is dealing with her own unique situation, they all must discover how to follow their dreams and stay true to themselves, whether their journeys take them away from--or back to--their Amish communities.

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



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



About the Author :

Childhood memories of her grandfather’s ranch came alive as Beth wrote her first Amish story. Her parents grew up in the country, so she appreciates pastoral life and respects those who make a living off the land. She visits a nearby Amish community just south of Fort-Worth for an occasional church service or brunch with the bishop and his wife. And on the way home she stops at the community store to get some plum jam!

Beth received a degree in social work and psychology from the University of Nebraska. She worked as a caseworker for Boulder County Department of Social Services before starting a family. Beth and her husband, two children, along with two cats and a beagle live in Texas after moving from their first home in Colorado. She freelances for the local papers in her area and writes columns, devotionals for magazines, and novels in a variety of genres in both fiction and nonfiction.




Giveaways!! :

Don't miss the first book, "Rumspringa's Hope," book one of Beth Shriver's new Spirit of the Amish series.

Beth is celebrating the series launch with a Kindle Fire Giveaway!

rumspringashope-400-click

One winner will receive :

  • A Kindle Fire
  • A copy of "Rumspringa's Hope" by Beth Shriver

To Enter : Enter today, but hurry! The giveaway ends on June 22nd. Winner will be announced June 23rd on Beth's blog.


Don't miss a moment of the fun; enter today and be sure to stop by Beth's blog on June 23rd to see if you won.



Find Beth Shriver :

Feasted On: Entwined Realms Series, Book 1.1

Format: Kindle Edition | File Size: 172 KB | Release Date: June 9, 2014 | Publisher: Romantic Geek Publishing | Obtained: Danielle Monsch

"Stone Embrace" [Entwined Realms Series, Book 1.1] by Danielle Monsch

Author's Book Description : In the New Realms, Love can be the Most Dangerous Battle of All...

Terak has fought all enemies to claim Larissa. It does not matter his own Clan looks upon the union with misgivings. It does not matter her family see a monster when they see him.

It does not matter, because Larissa is his.

And any who would try to take her away? They will see what a Gargoyle will do to protect his mate.


*****
NOTE: "Stone Embrace" is not a complete story. It would best be described as an extended 30 page epilogue to the novel "Stone Guardian." You'll probably have the most enjoyment reading this story if you have read "Stone Guardian" and already know the characters and world of the Entwined Realms series.

My Book Review : 4 out of 5 stars! A wonderful "epilogue" that proved why I love Larissa and Terak so much! It definitely got me excited again to see where this series will take us next!

I would definitely recommend this novella but ONLY if you've read "Stone Guardian," and hopefully liking it as much as I did!!

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




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

My Previous Mention(s) of this Author's Books/Characters : Best Book Couples -- Happy Valentine's Day 2014

Author's Series Extras : Pinterest - Entwined Realms | Stone Guardian - Overview & Excerpt | COVER REVEAL! Stone Guardian – First book in my Entwined Realms series! | Sneak Peek and First Read – Stone Guardian | What’s next for the Entwined Realms?

Book Teaser(s) :
Even if he believed those two loved each other – and dammit, he did, he really did – that didn’t change the fact this was a bad match. Larissa was in danger by being with Terak, and as much as Larissa pushed to the side any objections to Terak being a gargoyle, that was no small difference.
But before him Jack saw the same look he was sure was on his face when he confronted Bill Campbell about marrying Laura – flinty determination and the willingness to set the world afire if that was what it took to accomplish his objective.
Bill Campbell was probably chortling in heaven even now, looking at his son-in-law being put through the same hell he’d given as a young man. ~ within Chapter 2
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Danielle, then please check out her website.

Tuesday, June 10, 2014

What was I thinking?: A Marsden Novel, Book 2

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 1215 KB | Release Date: July 17, 2014 | Publisher: Kensington Books : eKensington | Obtained: NetGalley

"Picture This" [A Marsden Novel, Book 2] by Jayne Denker

What was I thinking? : I've been interested in reading about "celebrities" falling in love with "normal people" lately. So, once I read the Author's Book Description I thought this was going to be right up my alley. Yet, even though the plot was what I wanted, in some ways, the main characters were annoying when it came to how they expressed their feelings for each other that after a while they ruined my enjoyment of it.

Author's Book Description : It’s where everyone knows your business—and remembers everything you’d rather forget. But somehow the little Catskills town of Marsden draws the most unlikely people back home, turns their lives every which way, and helps them finally figure out what—and who—they want most...

As a celebrity photographer’s assistant, Celia Marshall is used to seeing all kinds of weird antics. But subbing as the model in irrepressible movie star Niall Crenshaw’s latest endorsement ad—while wearing his silk boxers, no less—is definitely not in her job description. Neither is falling for him, especially since he’s dating his latest co-star. To complicate things further, Celia is returning to Marsden to keep an eye on her eccentric grandmother—and Niall is driving her there, then staying to judge a talent contest...

Soon Celia is pulled in a dozen different directions, trying to get her grandmother to act her age, placating her frantic former boss who’s organizing the contest—and attempting to stay away from funny, sexy Niall. Celia’s always been level headed, but suddenly she’s wishing she could get reckless right along with him. Has the time come for sensible Celia to cut loose?...

My Book Review : 1.5 out of 5 stars. I really tried to like this novel; the beginning was good yet from the halfway point until the end I had to push through it. There were just SOO many second-guesses by Celia and Niall that all I really wanted to do was shake some sense into them most of the way through. Thankfully, some of the secondary characters (like Nora and Holly) and Neil's comedic timing were entertaining.

I couldn't see how this was a Rom-Com, as I found it more to be a Dramedy being heavy on the drama and indecisive characters.

Overall, I wasn't a fan of this novel so I don't recommend it.

Nevertheless, if you were a fan of "Down on Love," book 1 of this series, and/or enjoy Dramedies then you'll like this novel.

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

Author's Novel Extras : Pinterest: Picture This - Marsden, NY | So This Is Happening...Time to Go Back to Marsden!


Author's Series Extras : Pinterest: Down on Love | Is It November Yet? | Five Stars from Fab Fan Fic! | Get ‘Down on Love’ Today! | A Little Sumpin’ Extra on My Book Cover | Did Someone Say PIE? | #ChickLitLove, Day 1: Meet the Heroines | #ChickLitLove, Day 2: Excerptapalooza! | #ChickLitLove, Day 3: The Heroes (“Mmm...Heroes...” /Homer) | #ChickLitLove, Day 4: It’s All About the Besties

Book Teaser(s) :
"You mean it's going to take longer than just this weekend?" Niall couldn't keep the disappointment out of his voice.
Celia actually smiled, though her eyes were watery. "Gran's pretty darn stubborn."
"Imagine that."
"What are you implying?"
"Nothing! Nothing. I am saying absolutely nothing about certain traits running in the family. So . . . Vic's okay with it, right?"
She shrugged. "He told me not to expect him to hold my job for me if I'm gone for more than a week."
"Dick."
"He's got a business to run."
"What did you tell him?"
"That if there wasn't a job for me at his place when I got back, I'd get a better job as a leg model."
Niall laughed heartily. "Atta girl." ~ within Chapter 6
"Tell me you love me."
"Dude . . ."
"Say it, or I'm not telling you the good news. Say, 'Trent, I love you. You are the most amazing personal assistant anyone could ever have. I'm doubling your salary.'"
"Trent, you are the most annoying person on the planet, and if you don't tell me right now, you're fired."
"Empty threat. I have the advantage."
"Come on---!" ~ within Chapter 20
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Jayne, then please check out her website.

Made the Grade: Dundee, Idaho Series, Book 8

Format: Kindle Edition | File Size: 1127 KB | Release Date: March 17, 2014 | Publisher: Harlequin MIRA | Obtained: Amazon.com | Originally Found Out About @ Brenda Novak's Newsletter

"Coulda Been A Cowboy" [Dundee, Idaho Series, Book 8] by Brenda Novak

Author's Book Description : Grandpa Garnier used to say: Love is like a bucking bronco. It takes guts and determination to hang on, but it’s worth the ride.

If only Grandpa was around now to help Tyson Garnier out of this mess. The famous pro football player is suddenly saddled with a very public scandal–and an illegitimate child. Tyson needs a good nanny now if he’s going to salvage his career. And plain, no-nonsense Dakota Brown is the ideal candidate.

Dakota doesn’t care for football–or for a man who doesn’t seem to want his own son. But she needs this job and that precious little baby needs her.

Dakota isn’t Tyson’s kind of woman. But the more he sees of her—and the more he sees of his son—the harder he wants to hang on.

My Book Review : 3 out of 5 stars! Tyson's life is falling apart. That's why he takes up his friend's offer to stay at his Idaho home for 8 weeks to recover from his knee injury and come to terms with what he has to do now that he's decided to raise his nine-month-old son. Yet because of his reluctance to get to know his son Tyson hires Dakota as a nanny, and as the days pass finds her more invaluable then ever ... in more ways then one.

This is an intense novel about betrayal, family loyalty, the multitude of love, and finding out who you are as a person while trying to become a better version of yourself. I really liked Dakota and Tyson's ever-growing relationship. They are snarky with each other but once they get to know one another they find that because of the routine they've created they really don't want to loose it, yet they both fear about loosing themselves in the process as they've grown up with bad examples of love.

I can't say I was a fan of how this novel flows, as I thought it dragged in the middle. Nevertheless, I thoroughly enjoyed how this novel wraps everything up, even if Tyson is a bit dense.

I recommend this novel to those who are fans of Ms. Novak and/or like contemporary romances!

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

My Previous Review(s) for this Author : When We Touch | The Bastard / Honor Bound

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

Author's Novel Extras : Coulda Been A Cowboy - Overview & Excerpt

Author's Series Extras : Dundee, Idaho Series - Overview | A Baby of Her Own - Overview & Excerpt | A Husband of Her Own - Overview & Excerpt | A Family of Her Own - Overview & Excerpt | A Home of Her Own - Overview & Excerpt | Stranger in Town - Overview & Excerpt | Big Girls Don’t Cry - Overview & Excerpt | The Other Woman - Overview & Excerpt | “A Dundee Christmas” in the That Christmas Feeling Anthology - Excerpt | “A Dundee Christmas” in the Be Mine At Christmas Anthology - Overview | Dundee, Idaho series now on ebook at a great price! | 3 Christmas Stories in 1! Order Today!

Book Teaser(s) :
“Are you enjoying the baby?”
Dakota took Braden, who was starting to cry, from the cart. “Very much!”
The babe quieted immediately. “Ba...ba...ba...ba,” he cooed and nearly broke her nose with his eagerness to give her another wet kiss.
Gabe laughed at the collision. “That kid keeps growing, he’ll be a lineman someday.”
Dakota hugged Braden close. She loved his chubby body, especially the soft rolls at his thighs and the place where he would one day grow a wrist. “He’s in the ninety-ninth percentile for height and the eighty-seventh percentile for weight. I looked it up on the Internet.”
“Sounds like Paul Bunyan’s kid to me.”
She brushed her lips across Braden’s temple, enjoying the scent of his shampoo. “It’s not as if his father is small. Tyson’s at least six-four, isn’t he?”
“Around there.”
“And Braden’s going to be every bit as handsome.” ~ within Chapter 5
“DAKOTA, CALL THE POLICE!”
Wrestling with the last vestiges of sleep, Dakota opened her eyes and blinked at the ceiling. At first she felt a little disoriented—she could hear Braden and her father, so it took a minute for it all to fit into place. Then she realized she was home, in her old room. She could tell by the water damage in the corner, which ran down the wall.
“Dakota?” Her father again. It was his bellowing that had awakened her.
“What?” she called back.
“There’s a strange man and a baby in our house.”
She rubbed her face. No need for alarm. Her father was just being rude to Tyson. “Lighten up, Dad,” she shouted.
“Okay, the baby can stay but the man has to go.”
“You’re real hospitable, you know that?” Dakota heard Tyson say. ~ within Chapter 16
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Brenda, then please check out her website.

Thursday, June 5, 2014

Disappointmentville: Girls Night Out Series, Book 1

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 318 KB | Expected Release Date: June 11, 2012 | Publisher: Shooting Star Books | Obtained: NetGalley

"The Harvester" [Girls Night Out Series, Book 1] by Lynn Crain

Author's Book Description : Princess Sky Xera Nerezsh came to earth to avoid the normal succession path to the throne. Being the oldest daughter, she will be required to murder her mother in order to secure her path to power. Sky loves her mother and refuses this path, choosing instead to disappear in the vast reaches of space.

When her past collides with her present, she has to think quick on her feet, claim two men and a whole planet just to avoid the inevitable: a meeting with her mother. Along the way, she discovers true love and a burning need to be there for them always. Now if the other Harvesters can just keep to themselves, they’ll have no problems. But who said true love was ever easy.

NOTE: This is an erotic menagé novel with EXPLICIT language and adult situations.

My Book Review : 2.5 out of 5 stars. A creative erotic sci-fi romance! I was really intrigued with this novel’s buildup, as it reminded me a bit of Ms. Brooks' "Slave," book 1 in her Cat Star Chronicles. In addition, because of how protective Sky was in this novel, especially in the beginning, I couldn't help but think of the, "Come with me if you want to live," saying from the Terminator movies.

However, once Sky and her men get to the "big fight scene" I found it falling short of what I thought was going to be a good part of this novel. I understand that it was probably because it's the first novel in its series. However, I found this novel was mostly sex scenes (very hot ones!) and background dialogue that builds up to what should be coming up in the series.

Nevertheless because of its potential and because I really liked the beginning, I recommend this novel to those who like erotic m/m/f sci-fi romances.

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

Author's Novel Extras : Heck...It’s Thursday Already! | Latest News | Lynn's Random News | The First Six Months | My First Six Sentence Sunday | My Second Six | July Sales Update or SHOW ME THE MONEY! | The Harvester's Last Six | Sneak Peek Sunday ~ The Harvester ~ @oddlynn3 #SPeekSunday | The Harvester ~ MFRW Book Hook ~ @oddlynn3 #MFRWhooks #LynnCrain | Doing Sexy ~ @oddlynn3 #MSS43 #Saturday7 #LynnCrain | Sexy Once Again ~ @oddlynn3 #Saturday7 #MSS44 #LynnCrain


Book Teaser(s) :
"Are all the women of your world beautiful?"
Sky frowned. "Pretty much. We all come from basically the same genetic pool with few exceptions I'm told."
"Oh, who are these fine specimens?" her sister purred.
Sky threw her sister a nasty look. "Mine. Now keep your hands off them."
"Aren't we a bitchy girl anymore?"
"Always was when you wanted to play with my things."
"Ouch." Her sister gave a pout. ~ within Chapter 13
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Lynn, then please check out her website.

Disappointmentville: Half-Life Series, Book 1

Format: Kindle Edition | File Size: 1774 KB | Release Date: May 29, 2014 | Publisher: Self-Published | Obtained: Amazon.com

"Three Nights with a Rock Star" [Half-Life Series, Book 1] by Amber Lin & Shari Slade

Authors' Book Description : When Hailey crashes a Half-Life after party, she expects to find the bastard who knocked up her little sister. Instead she meets the sexy front-man who agrees to give her access to his crew if she gives him access to her body.

All Lock demands in return is three days of complete control over the Sunday School teacher. With a contract, because he’s been burned before. One misstep could send the band—and his tenuous sobriety—up in flames.

Hailey and Lock push each other’s limits... Against the penthouse window. Backstage. In the limo and on the elevator. But as the contract counts down, neither are ready for the party to end.

My Book Review : 2.5 out of 5 stars. This novel wasn't what I suspected. Even though I liked the second storyline, even though I liked Lock & Hailey together, even though I was surprised by the threesome twist, I rated this because I found the ending to be a flop. It needs to have more then it does before the epilogue starts.

Yet, I still recommend it to those who like rock and roll erotic romances!

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

Authors' Novel Extras : Pinterest: Three Nights with a Rock Star | Welcome to the First Kiss hop! Introducing my new rockstar series... | Waiting in the Wings | Cover Reveal for Three Nights with a Rock Star | Three Nights with a Rock Star – An Excerpt | Three Nights with a Rock Star is out now!!! | Three Nights with a Rock Star is out now!


Book Teaser(s) :
Taking a fortifying breath, she read the rest of the contract. No monies will be exchanged. So she wasn’t going to get paid for having sex with him— should she be grateful she wasn’t sacrificing her morals?
Or offended she didn’t warrant a tip?
She might be going mad. This was all some weird, gritty Alice in Wonderland. She’d fallen down the hole, into a land where grinning cats led her up elevators and mad hatters invited her to share a Coke. Off with her head, the Queen of Hearts would say, and God. God. She was so screwed. ~ within Chapter 4
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Amber & Shari, then please check out their websites: Amber's website & Shari's website.

Wednesday, June 4, 2014

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

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

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



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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

Book Teaser(s) :
“We’ve been praying for her. I suppose you’ll be heading back to the hospital later?”
“Yes, I am.” This time he wouldn’t go alone. If Betsy were to happen back to the hospital, he wouldn’t face her by himself. Also, if Natalie Bennett came back, too, in her pink pants with hems skimming her shins, and her long hair swished as she talked.
Like the women of his Order, Natalie Bennett wore her hair long, but unlike the women in his Order, she wore it down, the walnut-colored strands of silk flowing past her shoulders. Rebecca’s face glowed when Natalie had entered the room. Miss Bennett. He reminded himself of her proper name. Even Bubbles the Clown would do. ~ within Chapter 3
“I think you should know something. My family lives but one county over from your grandmother, in Tuscarawas County, not far from the Sugarcreek area.” Rachel adjusted her kapp and gave Natalie a pointed look.
“I didn’t know that. I’m not big on Ohio geography.”
“Well,” Rachel said as she picked up her house key, “if you go to Ohio, you must let me know. I have some of the children’s things to return to them. Clothing, before it’s outgrown.”
“I . . . I’m not sure if I should—”
“Humor an old woman. We Amish honor our elders and listen to them.” Rachel poked Natalie’s shoulder.
“Yes, ma’am. I’ll let you know when I go. Maybe you’d like to ride along with me?”
“Oh, no. Not at all.”
Natalie followed Rachel back into the sunshine. “You’re sure?”
“Pinecraft is my home. I don’t need to travel hither and yon.”
“Well, if I go to Ohio, I will make sure I deliver whatever it is the children have left behind.” ~ within Chapter 22
Could he follow the adage, What happens in Pinecraft, stays in Pinecraft? He’d heard the saying before, which mimicked the Englisch saying about the city of Las Vegas, nicknamed by the Englisch themselves as “sin city.” ~ within Chapter 27
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Lynette, then please check out her website.



About the Author :

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



Giveaways!! :

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

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

seasonchange-400-click

One winner will receive :

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

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

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


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

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




Find Lynette Sowell :

Tuesday, June 3, 2014

Made the Grade: Ransom Brothers Series, Book 1

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 2883 KB | Expected Release Date: April 27, 2014 | Publisher: Self-Published | Obtained: NetGalley

"Ransom" [Ransom Brothers Series, Book 1] by Rachel Schurig

Author's Book Description : **The first book in a brand new series from USA Today bestselling author Rachel Schurig. This New Adult Contemporary Romance novel is a complete story with no cliffhanger.**

Daisy Harris has no reason to suspect that her day will be any different than usual. She’ll go to class, alone. She won’t speak or make eye contact. She’ll spend her entire day doing her best to go completely unnoticed. That’s what life is like for Daisy now—an endless cycle of loneliness and fear. A life lived hiding behind the walls she so faithfully maintains.

Then she sees it. A magazine, left behind in class. A simple picture—just his face. And it changes everything.

It’s been a year since she’s seen Daltrey Ransome. A year since he and his brothers left town to pursue their dreams of rock and roll superstardom. A year since he left Daisy behind—left her to watch as everything she knew crumbled around her. She’s been running from Daltrey ever since, desperate to keep her secret.

But she can’t run anymore. And now that Daltrey has found her—the girl he’s loved his entire life, the girl he’d give up everything for—he’s determined never to let her go again.

My Book Review : 3 out of 5 stars. I don't know what to say. I know I liked this novel. I liked Daisy and Daltrey, their friendship and their growing relationship. And I really thought this was a good setup to this new series. Plus, I liked Daisy's new friends and Daltrey's family.

With that being said it was hard for me to like the plot, since even though I was rooting for Daisy and Daltrey's relationship the whole way through, I completely agree with what Levi was saying about Daltrey. He was saying that Daltrey should have gone after Daisy from the moment he thought something might have been wrong if he really has been in love with her for as long as he says he was. So, when the troubles came between them (as it does in most romances) it made me not enjoy the novel as much as I was previously because I wish Daltrey behaved differently.

Nevertheless, I recommend this novel and series to anyone who likes rock and roll contemporary romances!

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

My Previous Review(s) for this Author : Lovestruck in London

My Previous Mention(s) of this Author's Books/Characters : Best Book Couples -- Happy Valentine's Day 2014

Author's Novel Extras : Ransom | Ransom is here!


Book Teaser(s) :
"We do not need those," Karen says, crossing her arms and giving Paige a stern look. "I mean it. Put them down."
Paige pouts in the middle of the aisle. "Why not?"
I stifle a giggle at the look on Karen's face.
"Why in the world would we need balloons, Paige? Seriously, give me one probable scenario in which a balloon would be necessary over the course of this trip."
Paige thinks for a moment. I'm glad we decided to make this shopping run late at night, though the timing was due to Karen having to work the night shift at the grocery store. Wal-Mart is fairly empty right now, which prevents us from receiving the kind of attention we'd be getting otherwise.
We've spent the last hour picking out snacks and supplies for our road trip. Or rather, Karen and I have been picking out snacks and supplies. Paige has been choosing increasingly ridiculous items that she deems essential for fun on the trip. While Karen has been trying to ensure we'll have the necessities, such as coffee and tampons, Paige has picked up pretty much every shiny, pink, or noise-making item in the vicinity.
"Well, what if we meet new friends waiting in line for one of the shows?" Paige asks. "And we end up staying in the same hotel as them. And then one of them has a birthday. We would want to decorate their hotel room door, wouldn't we?" She grins and holds up the plastic bag. "Thus, balloons!"
I'm pretty sure Karen's head is about to explode. ~ within Chapter 9 - titled 'Daisy'
"Holy crap," Paige says. "Did you know this place was actually on the beach?"
"I didn't even know New Hampshire had beaches," I say. "New Hampshire touches the ocean?"
"Could have fooled me," Paige says.
Karen sighs. "Seriously, you guys? Of course New Hampshire touches the ocean. And why did you not figure this out from the name of the town---Hampton Beach?"
Paige smiles sheepishly. "I thought it was, like, just a name."
I burst out laughing. The entire situation strikes me as completely hilarious---how cold and pissed Karen looks, the fact that it's only eight in the morning and the line is already stretched down the building, the idea of sitting out here all day in the cold with the wind and salt from the ocean only a stone's throw away. And, of course, Paige's and my complete inadequacies in the area of U.S. geography. ~ within Chapter 15 - titled 'Daisy'
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Rachel, then please check out her website.

Blog Tour - Made the Grade: The Mean Girl Apologies by Stephanie Monahan | Interview, Review, & Novel/Gift Card Giveaway

Today I'm turning my blog over to Stephanie Monahan, who I interviewed about her novel "The Mean Girl Apologies!"

ALSO -- Be sure to check out Rafflecopter at the bottom of this post to be able to sign up for this blog stop's GIVEAWAY(s)!! [Blog Tour will run from June 2 - 13, 2014]



My Q&A with Stephanie Monahan :

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

Stephanie : I was never without a book when I was a kid! I would read when I was getting my hair cut, taking a bath, and I always tried to sneak out a book when I was supposed to be walking in gym class! I was obsessed with Sweet Valley High and the Babysitters Club in elementary school. When I got older, I loved Stephen King (I was very proud after finishing all 1,000 pages plus of "THE STAND") and Judy Blume ("FOREVER" seems tame by today’s standards, but it was extremely edgy at the time).

Jess : What do you do when you are not writing?

Stephanie : I have a full-time day job in Human Resources. When I’m not at work, I love hanging out with my dog and cat and taking day trips around New England with my husband. I’m also a big TV watcher and can’t wait to binge-watch Orange is the New Black this summer.

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

Stephanie : I love this question! :) I would say I would most like to invite Sophie from "33 VALENTINES" to dinner because I love her sense of humor and I feel like we would get along really well. I would least like to invite Amber from "THE MEAN GIRL APOLOGIES" because she makes me nervous! I feel like she would be judging me and talking about me behind my back to her friends later.

Jess : Please describe "The Mean Girl Apologies" in 75 words or less.

Stephanie : A former mean girl’s past comes back to haunt her in the form of a top 40 hit.

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

Stephanie : Almost always the characters. The story always changes, but the characters are what really gets into my mind and my heart and makes me want to write about them. Even when the idea for a story may come first, it doesn’t really come to life for me until I understand the characters involved.

Jess : What sparked the idea for "The Mean Girl Apologies?"

Stephanie : There is an amazing song called Forget Her by Jeff Buckley that I listened to obsessively for a long time. There is a line in it that says: “My tears falling down as I try to forget/Her love was a joke from the day that we met.” I couldn’t stop wondering what it would feel like to be the woman that he was singing about—and Natalie was born.

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

Stephanie : I am a perfectionist and if I could have endless time to edit and perfect my work I would take it. I’m sure there are lots of sentence-level things I’d want to go back and change. I always feel like my writing can be tightened. But overall I’m happy with the way it turned out.

Jess : If "The Mean Girl Apologies" were to be made into a film, who do you see playing the main characters and why?

Stephanie : Looks-wise, I think Lucy Hale would make a good Natalie and I could totally see Alex Pettyfer as Jack. He’d have to wear brown contacts though!


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

Stephanie : I’ve written one other (published) book, "33 VALENTINES." It’s really hard to choose between them. Probably like choosing between kids (or pets)! Both of them are my favorite in different ways. (Did I totally wiggle out of answering that??) "33 VALENTINES" flowed perfectly from the first word to the last and it was a wonderful writing experience. "THE MEAN GIRL APOLOGIES" took much longer and went through many more revisions and was overall more difficult, but like a lot of things that take work, the end result was so worth it.

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

Stephanie : I’m currently working on a couple of ideas, one about a minor league hockey team and a romantic comedy set at a bed and breakfast on the MA coast. I have no titles or really much at all except for a few pages and character sketches for each. I’m excited about both ideas!

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

Stephanie : This is the hardest question to answer! I have no idea who would ever want to read a biography written about me. However, if one was written, I’m thinking of the title: "WOULD YOU LIKE SOME TEA WITH YOUR SUGAR? THE STEPHANIE MONAHAN STORY." (I’m a little obsessed with sugary beverages and I wouldn’t be surprised if it leads to my downfall one day.)

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

Stephanie : • "The Isle of Youth" by Laura van den Berg

• "Side Effects May Vary" by Julie Murphy

• "My Life Next Door" by Huntley Fitzpatrick



About the Author :

Stephanie Monahan received her degree in English Literature from Binghamton University. In addition to reading and writing, she is passionate about her dog and cat, British pop music, and the beach. Born and raised in upstate New York, Stephanie now lives in central Massachusetts with her husband. Her first book, "33 VALENTINES," was nominated for a 2013 Book of the Year award at Coffee Time Romance & More. You can find her online at www.stephmonahan.com.



- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 1597 KB | Expected Release Date: June 2, 2014 | Publisher: Entangled Publishing : Embrace | Obtained: Sizzling PR

"The Mean Girl Apologies" by Stephanie Monahan

Author's Book Description : You know that catchy song you keep hearing on the radio?

It’s about you.


Natalie Jamison has spent five years trying to forget the girl she was in high school: popular, pretty...and, okay, mean. Now in her twenties and living once again in her small town, she’s right back where she was: following Queen Bee Amber and keeping secrets from her best friend, Sarah.

Secrets like Jack Moreland.

Everyone knows Jack Moreland—his new album, Good Enough, is everywhere. He’s famous. Impossibly handsome. Completely untouchable. But what none of Natalie’s old clique knows is that in high school, Natalie and Jack fell in love. And their secret relationship was incredible, painful—and earth-shattering enough to inspire an entire album.

Facing friends and enemies isn’t easy, but Natalie will go to great lengths to prove she is good enough—to her friends, to herself, and most of all, to the small-town boy turned worldwide heartthrob she never forgot.

My Book Review : 3.5 out of 5 stars! When you read this title, "The Mean Girl Apologies," believe it as it's written since the novel is all about Natalie apologizing to friends, her ex Jack, and to some girls in high school who she mean too. In truth, I didn't like the beginning of this novel, mostly because at that time she was still acting like a pushover to her "friend" Amber, which really pissed me off (enough to post this on my twitter account). Yet if this happens to you too I recommend you still read this novel through and stick to it, since once Natalie hears Jack's full album that was just released she finally admits that she needs to make changes in her life for good. From that point on this novel gets a whole lot better as you read about Jack and Natalie's high school "romance" interweaving with what is going on in her life currently and how she tries to make amends.

There isn't much romance in this novel. Yet, it was hard for me not to root for Natalie to create a new life for herself and have her win Jack back.

My favorite character was Natalie's new friend, Gillian. She's quirky and cute, while being a true friend and example for Natalie.

Then there's the ending, even though I liked how it wraps up it still leaves the question as to where Jack and Natalie will go from here. With that being said I hope there will be a sequel somehow, whether one of Jack or Natalie friends would be the next leads or something, so we can find out the answer to the elusive question of "where are they now?"

Overall, though, I do recommend this novel to anyone who likes contemporary NA and/or women's fiction.

Purchase This Book Here :

Author's Novel Extras : Pinterest: The Mean Girl Apologies inspiration | A Little Info About Book No. 2 | The Mean Girl Apologies! | Summer Recipes | End of Summer & A New Podcast | How Edits are Like Popcorn... | The Mean Girl Apologies teaser | On the loss of a pet, and other less depressing stuff too | June 2nd Embrace Releases and Blog Tours

Book Teaser(s) :
He bit the inside of his cheek, and inside my chest, there was this strange, fluttery feeling, like there was a bird caught up in there, fighting for its life. “I don’t know. I’ve got nothing.”
I hesitated for a second. “I have an idea,” I said. “The Kerouacs.”
“As in the writer?”
I shrugged. “I saw your book. Plus your name is Jack, so it’s kind of funny. Not completely obscure, but not as, um, theoretical, as Dirt Soup.”
He smiled slowly. “Are you going through my stuff?”
I was full-body flushing again. “Yeah, right. You left it out on the floor. I nearly tripped over it—”
“Listen, you’re stalking me. It’s okay to admit it.”
I was suddenly too weak to do anything but half laugh. Was this flirting? Was I flirting with Jack Moreland?
“Come on, Natalie. The first step is admitting you have a problem.”
A weird, little sensation shot through my toes when he said my name. “I have an idea. Why don’t you name your band the Jackasses? It’s really much more fitting.”
Jack fished the book out of his backpack and flipped through it. “No, I actually like the Kerouacs. A lot. Thanks.” ~ within Chapter 5
“Sorry, most of the questions I had I found out I wasn’t supposed to ask you.”
“Really? What were they?”
She glanced up at me, panic in her eyes, and I could feel Jack looking at me, too. I shifted my gaze to him and forced myself to speak. “We wanted to know if you’d tell your hometown paper who you were singing about. It’s all anyone around here wants to know.”
Jack nodded, pressing his fingers to his lips as he considered my question. His lips. Yeah, they were the same as I remembered, and all I could do in that second was to remember what it felt like when he kissed me—as if I’d discovered the reason lips were invented—the way no one else ever had. Sitting here like this, asking him questions like he were a stranger, I would have thought it would seem as if everything between us had happened to somebody else. But it didn’t. I was drawn to him in the same way I had been before, and it made even less sense now.
“It’s okay,” I said before he could answer. I could hear my voice shaking. “We know you’ve said a thousand times before that you’re not singing about anyone in particular. But we had to ask...for our editor.”
“Ah, for your editor.”
He was looking at me for way too long without speaking. Gillian’s eyebrows were lost somewhere in her bangs. Out of all the awkward moments I’d had in this gymnasium over the years, this had topped every last one of them. ~ within Chapter 6
For more information on this book and/or any other books by Stephanie, then please check out her website.



Giveaway!! :

  • An ecopy of "33 VALENTINES" and a $10 Amazon Gift Card to a randomly drawn participant during the tour

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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



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