Idolizing In: A Will and A Way by Claudia Harbaugh

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 537 KB | Expected Release Date: April 7, 2015 | Publisher: SilkWords, LLC | Obtained: NetGalley

"A Will and A Way" by Claudia Harbaugh

Author's Book Description : When Pippa’s father dies, she learns he was an earl — and that she is illegitimate. Part of her inheritance is a London Season, although she must masquerade as her half sister's cousin. Provincial Pippa knows nothing of rakes and routs, and she fears repercussions should Society discover her deception. In this sweet Regency romance, Pippa must remain faithful to herself as she navigates the ton and seeks a husband. But if she does meet a man she can love, will he be able to overlook the circumstances of her birth?

My Book Review : 5 out of 5 stars!! After seventeen years of believing her father was just a traveling sales merchant, Philippa (Pippa) finds out that her father was actually the Earl of Milbank upon his death. In addition, he learns that she is actually a bastard. Approximately a year later, Pippa learns that in her father’s will she and her half-sister, Charlotte (Charlie), are to have a Season in London together without the interference of either of their mothers. During Pippa and Charlie’s time together, they grow close as sisters while trying to navigate the confines of the ton. Yet, Pippa is still uncertain if the ruse to pass off her being there as Charlotte’s cousin is the right one, but is telling the men in her life the truth about her parentage any better?

This fast-paced novella reminded me a bit of Ms. Austen’s "Pride & Prejudice" because of how much Pippa & Lord Trent (James) mimic Elizabeth Bennet & Mr. Darcy’s pride/stubbornness. I liked how nice Charlie is to Pippa and how their relationship grew into an undeniable friendship. In addition, I found Pippa & Lord Trent’s banter fresh and entertaining while making me want them to get together from the beginning.

I recommend this novella to those looking for a fun quick historical romance!

Purchase This Book and/or The Other Books From It's Series Here : Kobo (e-Book) : A Will and A Way


Author's Book Trailer :

Book Teaser(s) :

"I do not think he preferred me to you, just as most parents love all their children equally. But ..." I hesitated, not sure that I could say the words that hung on the veriest tip of my tongue.
"But he preferred your mama to mine," said my sister, speaking my thoughts aloud, sparing me the embarrassment of it.
I nodded and then, despite the rolling carriage, Lady Charlotte managed to gracefully transfer from her seat to mine. She gently took my hand in hers.
"Could we be real sisters, do you think? I would truly love to have a sister."
"Of course. I mean, we are sisters, if only half."
"I have never had anyone to confide in, you see. And sisters must keep each other's confidences."
"I will gladly keep any confidence of yours, Lay Charlotte, sister or no." ~ within Chapter 2

"What should I do if he is there?" she asked.
"You should say 'how do you do,' smile, and move on," I said matter-of-factly.
"I cannot."
"Mama, you have always told me I must face my fears. Now you must do the same."
"It is hard when my only child throws my words back in my face."
"Hard it may be, but still true." ~ within Chapter 4

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

Feasted On: Kennedy High Series, Book 2

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Paperback - Pages: 201; Kindle Edition - File Size: 4594 KB | Expected Release Date: November 17, 2014 | Publisher: Elliott Books | Obtained: edelweiss

"The Evolution of Emily" [Kennedy High Series, Book 2] by Kate Scott

Author's Book Description : Emily Charles knows how to run away. Away from her overprotective, agoraphobic mother. Away from her biology-obsessed, autistic sister. Away from her quiet sheltered claustrophobic homeschooled life. When Emily's escape plan involves starting her junior year at Kennedy High School, she realizes she's no longer running away. Now she's running towards. Towards her quiet thoughtful cross-country teammate, August. Towards her zany enthusiastic lab partner, Miles. Towards friendship, love, independence, and life.

Thanks to her sister's special interest in biology, Emily knows all about the birds and the bees. Boys are a lot more confusing!

Readers who enjoyed "Counting to D" will won't want to miss Scott's second novel, also set at Kennedy High School.

My Book Review : 4 out of 5 stars! Emily's life has been within the confines of her home. With a mother who fears the outside world and a younger sister with her own special needs, Emily is very lonely. Her only reprieve from her everyday life is running. During one of her running excursions, she runs by the local high school and decides to get paperwork to enroll. After convincing her father that going to high school is what she needs, she begins her new school year that fall. Now Emily is faced with her greatest dream and biggest fear ... socialization. Will it all turn out the way she hopes? Can her family come to terms with the life changes she's throwing their way? And is the cute guy on the cross-country team everything she believes he is?

This was a uniquely intense YA romance that makes the readers think, helps them learn, and gets them addicted to its inspiring characters. I was truly surprised by the direction this novel played out but I couldn't have been happier with its outcome! Emily is a compelling girl who is brave enough to take control of her life and fight for what she wants even if it's hard fighting against a family who doesn't want to change like she does. Then to throw in her new relationship with August (a sweet cross-country star) and her budding friendships with Sam & Miles, just topped off my liking of this novel. Plus, it helped that the chemistry between August and herself is off the charts. While at times August seems to good-to-be-true, he helps Emily more than ever to navigate her new world. August definitely charmed me.

I HIGHLY recommend this novel to those who are looking for a dynamic YA romance!

Purchase This Book and/or The Other Books From It's Series Here : IndieBound (Paperback) : Counting to D (Book 1) | IndieBound (Paperback) : The Evolution of Emily (Book 2) | Kobo (e-Book) : Counting to D (Book 1) | Alibris (Paperback) : Counting to D (Book 1) | Alibris (Paperback) : The Evolution of Emily (Book 2)


Author's Novel Extras : Bootcamp Check-In | Buckle Up for Writing | The Evolution of Kate | The Evolution of Emily - Cover Reveal

The Evolution of Emily is now available. Do you have your copy yet?
Posted by Kate Scott on Wednesday, November 19, 2014

Author's Series Extras : The Dyslexic Brain | Love List | Opening Sentences | 2014 Is Already Looking Good | Spring Writing Boot Camp | Happy New Year

Today is "support teen literature day", what have you done to celebrate? #RockTheDrop
Posted by Kate Scott on Friday, April 17, 2015

Book Teaser(s) :

My dad had always been my ally, when I really needed him. He insisted my mom let me leave the house to go running every day. He set the boundaries, allowing Olivia and me to spend as much time as we wanted outside on the porch. He made sure we were safe every day, even though he left us at home with a crazy person---a crazy person he loved enough to overlook her insanity. ~ within Chapter 2

THE EVOLUTION OF EMILY by Kate Scott -- Read my review here:...
Posted by From Me to You - Video, Photography, & Book Reviews on Monday, June 1, 2015

"Bravery isn't the same as fearlessness. Yes, you're afraid, but you don't let that fear paralyze you. Emily, you forced two very overprotective parents to let you go to public school, participate in extracurricular activities, and start dating. I'm pretty sure you're a superhero."
I looked up at him. "Do you really think that?"
"Absolutely." ~ within Chapter 25

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

Disappointmentville: Billionaires and Babies Series & Moonlight Beach Bachelors Series, Book 2

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Paperback - Pages: 192; Kindle Edition - File Size: 636 KB | Expected Release Date: July 1, 2015 | Publisher: Harlequin : Desire | Obtained: NetGalley

"The Billionaire's Daddy Test" [Billionaires and Babies Series & Moonlight Beach Bachelors Series, Book 2] by Charlene Sands

Author's Book Description : Will a Moonlight Beach bachelor make the grade as a father…and a lover? Find out in this novel from USA TODAY bestselling author Charlene Sands.

Left to care for her late sister's baby, Mia D'Angelo goes on a secret mission to find out if the missing father would make good daddy material. But when she tracks down Adam Chase at his beachfront mansion, her plan spins out of control and they're soon dating!

It isn't long before the reclusive billionaire realizes Mia's keeping a huge secret about the child he never knew he had. Can this guarded man learn to trust Mia after her initial deception…and trust himself around this incredibly sexy woman?

My Book Review : 2.5 out of 5 stars. Four months after losing her sister, Mia finally finds the man who fathered her niece and goes about letting him know that he is a father. Yet her way of meeting Adam is a bit unusual, because by the time her reveal about his daughter happens they are halfway through their second date. Opps! From that point on, Adam has a difficult time in trusting Mia, but Mia is an intricate part of Rose’s life so they find a way to all work together, while living under one roof. Will Adam and Mia be able to trust each other enough to make this family setup work for them all or will their trust issues get in the way?

I tried so hard to like this novel but I just couldn’t get a good feel for it. Overall, it was an okay read. However, the pacing was to slow for me, then with Adam and Mia both reluctant with their affections with one another made it difficult for me to finish reading it. Why I did stick with it was because I did like Adam, Mia, and Rose as characters themselves. In addition, I liked that I completed it since the ending was very sweet.

I recommend this novel only to those who are a fan of Ms. Sands and/or her Moonlight Beach Bachelors Series.

Purchase This Book and/or The Other Books From It's Series Here : IndieBound (Paperback) : Her Forbidden Cowboy (Book 1) | IndieBound (Paperback) : The Billionaire's Daddy Test (Book 2) | Kobo (e-Book) : Her Forbidden Cowboy (Book 1) | Kobo (e-Book) : The Billionaire's Daddy Test (Book 2) | Alibris (Paperback) : Her Forbidden Cowboy (Book 1) | Kobo (e-Book) : Harlequin Desire February 2015


My Previous Review(s) for the Moonlight Beach Bachelors Series : Book 1

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

Author's Novel Extras : Pinterest: The Billionaire's Daddy Test | Cover Reveal of The Billionaire's Daddy Test!

Author's Series Extras : Pinterest: Her Forbidden Cowboy Images | Moonlight Beach Billionaires Giveaway

Book Teaser(s) :

His fingertips simply touched the drawer loaded with shiny pots and pans and it slid open automatically. "There you go."
She stood, astonished. "I've never seen anything like that. You have a bat cave kitchen, too."
"It's automated, that's all. No pulling or yanking required."
"I think I'm in heaven." How wistful she sounded, her voice breathy.
Adam stood close, gazing at her in that way he had, as if trying to figure her out. His eyes were pure silver gray and a smidgen of blue surrounded the rims. They reminded her of a calm sea after a storm. "I think I am, too." ~ within Chapter 2

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

Made the Grade: The King’s Riders Series, Book 1

Format: Kindle Edition | File Size: 4114 KB | Release Date: February 21, 2013 | Publisher: Paper Dragon Publishing | Obtained: Amazon.com

"Sword’s Call" [The King’s Riders Series, Book 1] by C. A. Szarek

Author's Book Description : For generations, the Ryhans, ruling family of the Province of Greenwald have been keepers of a sword rumored to possess enough magic to defeat kings. Lord Varthan, a former archduke and betrayer of the king, covets the sword and invades Greenwald.

Lady Ceralda Ryhan, daughter of the murdered duke, gains the sword and flees, trusting only her white wolf, Trikser—magically bonded to her. Cera needs nothing more to aid in her fight.

Jorrin Aldern, half elfin and half human, left his home in the mountains of Aramour to find his human father who disappeared twenty turns before, but finds Cera with Varthan and his shades on her tail instead. His dual heritage and empathic magic will tempt Cera in ways she never thought she’d desire. But can he convince her trust and love can pave the path to redemption or will the epic battle end in tragedy and evil conquer them all?

Cover Art for "Sword’s Call" by Nicole Cadet

My Book Review : 3 out of 5 stars! Ceralda (Cera) is out for revenge. Her whole family has been brutally murdered while she was away and now she is on the run with hope of killing the man who murdered them along the way. While on her way to her Uncle's castle, Cera meets a half-elfin empath named Jorrin, who decides to help her accomplish her quest. They grow very close during their journey. Yet, are they willing to open up to one another for good or will they muddle up the best thing that could happen to them? Also, will Cera be able to exact her revenge or will her courage falter?

I was familiar with Ms. Szarek's writing style prior to purchasing this novel when it was on sale. I found that when it comes to this novel I enjoy its plot, the world everything was set in, and the characters. However, what was annoying was some of the drawn out character descriptions and how the main characters (Cera & Jorrin) always seemed to think that not communicating was the best course of action for them. *shakes head* Nevertheless, I'm glad I stuck with it as it really built up the series well.

As for Cera & Jorrin's relationship, I thought when they did actually talk to or followed through on their lust for one another then they were great. It just they are both SOO stubborn that when they get upset (which happens quite a bit) their communication goes out the window, which made me want to smack them both upside their heads by the end of the novel.

Overall, I DO recommend this novel and series to those looking for an eclectic fantasy romance!

Purchase This Book and/or The Other Books From It's Series Here : Smashwords (e-Book) : Sword's Call (Book 1) | Smashwords (e-Book) : Love's Call (Book 2)


My Previous Review(s) for this Author : The Fae Ring | The Parchment Scroll

My Previous Mention(s) of this Author's Books/Characters : Teaser Tuesday: The Parchment Scroll | Best Book Couples -- Happy Valentine's Day 2015

Author's Novel Extras : Sword’s Call - Overview & Excerpt | The Alphabet Game (Writer Alphabet Soup?) | A is for Ash | B is for Book | C is for Cunning | E is for Effort | F is for Forsaken | G is for Gown | H is for Home | I is for Intuition | L is for Lucan | M is for Mine | O is for Oracle | S is for Second | U is for Union | W is for Wail | Six Sentence Sunday: Sword's Call Teaser | Art Art Art! | Cover Reveal SWORD'S CALL! *squeeeeeeeeeeeee* | Three Sentence Thursday: Sword's Call! | IT'S MY BOOK'S BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! | Three Sentence Thursday: Sword's Call | Sword's Call Virtual Signing is NOW LIVE! | Tell Me About it Tuesday: Sword's Call Makeover!

Author's Series Extras : The King’s Riders Series - Overview | Love’s Call - Overview & Excerpt | D is for Dragon | J is for Jonah | N is for Night | T is for Touch | V is for Valley | X is for Xander | Six Sentence Sunday: First Meeting | Author Tag: I'm IT! | COVER REVEAL!!!!!!! Love's Call!


Book Teaser(s) :

“Trikser.” Her smile was brilliant when the wolf looked at her, tail wagging. Jorrin’s heart quickened. “Want to go outside?”
Her bondmate rose to all fours and headed for the door before either of them. When they didn’t come immediately, he glanced over his shoulder.
“See? He understands me.” Cera threw him a smug look and crossed her arms over her breasts.
Jorrin chuckled and shrugged.
They slipped out the door, leaving Hadrian and Avery deep in discussion. Neither seemed to notice that they’d left.
“All right, then, elf-boy. Show me what you got.”
He laughed and had to restrain himself from kissing the look off her face. ~ within Chapter 6

SWORD'S CALL by C.A. Szarek -- Read my review here: http://frommetoyouvideophoto.blogspot.com/2015/05/made-grade-kings-riders-series-book-1.html #teaser #meme #fantasyromance #romance #fantasynovel #books
Posted by From Me to You - Video, Photography, & Book Reviews on Saturday, May 30, 2015

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

Second Sentence Saturday: Sweet as Sin

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

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MY Second Sentence Saturday :

"Sweet as Sin" [Bad Habit Series, Book 1] by J. T. Geissinger

After a lengthy absence, Saturn returns to you sign today, bringing strange luck, creating problems, changing your plans, and exposing your faults.

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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!