Teaser Tuesday: All He Wants For Christmas

"All He Wants For Christmas" [Kismet Christmas Series, Book 4] by Lisa Plumley -- MY REVIEW
Book Teaser:

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

Feasted On: Cy’ren Rising Series, Book 3

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 696 KB | Expected Release Date: December 23, 2014 | Publisher: Samhain Publishing | Obtained: NetGalley

"Sunsinger" [Cy’ren Rising Series, Book 3] by Robyn Bachar

Author's Book Description : Her desire unites them. Her secret could destroy them all.

The lord.

The sole survivor of the Sunsinger massacre, Lord Degalen Fairren spends his days reading tales of the family he never knew. When a rival house threatens to enslave Cyprena, Galen is forced to pull his nose out of his books and enter into an alliance with House Morningstar, and a dangerous mission to save his world.

The assassin.

Lady Andelynn Harrow isn’t House Morningstar’s eldest or prettiest daughter, but she is the deadliest. After her father’s murder, Andee must defend her new house and mate—the shy, reluctant Galen—but every battle risks revealing her terrible secret.

The slave.

Malcolm gets his first taste of freedom when the Cy’ren recruit him to locate the cure to a deadly virus—and feels the burn of desire for Galen, the lord he can never have, and for Andee, who awakens memories of a long-lost first love.

The danger they face fuels the heat between them, but with Cyprena’s fate hanging in the balance, the race to find the cure could come with devastating costs.

Warning: Contains a blushing, virgin lord, a sexy geek, and an empathic assassin who always brings lube on a mission.

My Book Review : 4 out of 5 stars! Follow Andelynn (Andee) as she uses all of her skills to help protect her new mate(s), prove to Degalen (Galen) that there is more to life then following the old stingy rules, and opens her heart to the possibility of a better future for herself then she originally planned. For this being the first novel in this series that I've read I liked how it could be read as a standalone novel while it still brings in the series' previous main characters in a way that the reader stays up-to-date about them and still staying relevant to the action going on. This thrilling fast-paced sci-fi romance hooks you from the beginning. In addition, I loved how it was Malcolm that really brought the three of them together in many ways; he is such an absentmindedly sweet character. I'll love to see where Andee, Galen, & Malcolm end up in future novels in this series (if there are any); I like how well they suit each other. =0)

I recommend this novel to anyone who loves sci-fi romances! Especially to those who like m/f/m romances too!

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

My Previous Mention(s) of this Author's Books/Characters : Teaser Tuesday: Sunsinger

Author's Novel Extras : Sharing Good News

Author's Series Extras : Slaying the TBR Pile | SFR Brigade Presents: Morningstar Cover Reveal | Starry Nights Blog Hop | The SFR Brigade Presents: Morningstar, Cy'ren Rising Book 2 | The SFR Brigade Presents: Morningstar Snippet 3 | The SFR Brigade Presents: Morningstar Snippet 3 | The SFR Brigade Presents: Morningstar Snippet 4


Book Teaser(s) :

She smiled, and Malcolm was struck again by how pretty she was. Must be a Cy’ren thing, because he'd never seen one that wasn't beautiful, male or female. Galen was beautiful... Malcolm sighed and shook his head. No flirting. He would remember, somehow. Maybe he should write it on the backs of his hands. ~ within Chapter 2

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

"Lady Andee, did you crash my mate's shuttle?" he asked.
"Technically you crashed it, because you didn't evade that missile," she corrected.
Loren groaned again. "She's going to be pissed."
"Nah. She'll be so happy to see you that she'll forget all about it," Andee assured him.
"I'll buy her a new one," Galen added. "To go with the Talon II." ~ within Chapter 14

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

Second Sentence Saturday: In Your Dreams

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 :

"In Your Dreams" [The Blue Heron Series, Book 4] by Kristan Higgins -- MY REVIEW

Okay, okay, she hadn't used the Taser yet and she probably wouldn't get to (dang), but the tiny thrill of anticipation didn't lie.

---

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!

Made the Grade: Sweetbriar Springs Series, Book 2

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 688 KB | Expected Release Date: November 24, 2014 | Publisher: Entangled Publishing : Indulgence | Obtained: Entangled Publishing

"The Movie Star's Red Hot Holiday Fling" [Sweetbriar Springs Series, Book 2] by Christine Glover

Authors' Book Description : One dare and he’ll lose his heart… Determined to qualify for the fire department’s grueling physical, former marine Jessie Sullivan never gives up, despite the pins in her leg. The last thing she needs is a tall, incredibly hot action movie star sharing her gym...and who makes her want to trade in her reps for some sexy physical activity. Of the naked kind.

Blake Johnston is more than just a Big Screen Sex Machine, and he’s willing to prove it. Especially to a spirited and sexy ex-marine like Jessie. But when a harmless dare leads to sizzling fireworks, Jessie and Blake’s workout ends up generating some serious heat between the sheets. And it’s more than Jessie could have imagined. Much, much more. But flings don’t last forever. And in two weeks, Jessie will have to say goodbye to her red-hot Christmas fantasy...

My Book Review : 3.5 out of 5 stars! A heartwarming novel about a Hollywood action hero meeting a wounded ex-Marine, healing each other’s past pains and their hearts, with a little holiday magic thrown in. I really enjoyed this fast-paced novel. It shows brings the reader into Jessica’s (Jessie) world, shows you her struggles about her current self-worth post being honorably discharged from the Marines, while seeing Blake prove how great she is and verifying that she has nothing to be guilty about. Even though this novel made me cry a few times because of how sweetly written the scenes were I couldn’t help but root for Jessie & Blake the whole way through!

In addition, with the subtle build up for more stories in this series I am interested in where it’ll all go next!

I recommend this novel to anyone looking for a sweet slightly erotic contemporary romance based around two different kinds of heroes!

Purchase This Book and/or The Other Books From It's Series Here : KOBO : The Maverick's Red Hot Reunion | KOBO : The Movie Star’s Red Hot Holiday Fling


Authors' Novel Extras : Makeover Madness on the Veranda

Author's Series Extras : Break Out the Bubbly & Dark Chocolate: Celebrating Christine Glover’s Debut Novel The Maverick’s Red Hot Reunion | A Debut to Celebrate & What’s Happening Next in Sweetbriar Springs

Book Teaser(s) :

“What would your diehard fans say if they knew you have a serious addiction to hot chocolate?” She released it, but not before their fingers brushed. Electricity sparked, igniting another sharp yearning under her skin.
His gaze was firm, rooting her to the floor. “She puts marshmallows in it. The tiny kind.”
She exhaled a long breath. “And you’re partial to tiny marshmallows?”
“Among other things,” he said, lifting one brow.
Her insides flipped again. There was no mistaking the intent in his voice. ~ within Chapter 2

The early morning sunrays illuminated his amazing sculpted muscles, and a hint of light caressed his gorgeous features. His eyelashes swept the planes of his cheekbones and not a single line marred the perfection of his brow.
Here was a man, a glorious and beautiful male, who commanded a movie empire as its star, but in sleep she could see beyond the gild he used to guard his emotions.
He wasn’t just a Hollywood icon. Not to her. He was so much more. Oh, how she longed to draw out this time, stretch it through eternity, if only to keep this man in her life. But that was the stuff fairy tales were made of, and Jessie was a realist. ~ within Chapter 6

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

Feasted On: Tempting the Governess by Vivienne Westlake

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Paperback - Pages: 111; Kindle Edition - File Size: 266 KB | Expected Release Date: October 9, 2014 | Publisher: Self-Published | Obtained: NetGalley

"Tempting the Governess" by Vivienne Westlake

Author's Book Description : Never fall in love with your employer. Any respectable governess knew the cardinal rule. Christine Aubrey prided herself on her devotion to her charges, never suspecting that one day a former pupil would tempt her to break every rule in the book.

Theodore Blake was a “good boy” who grew up into a responsible man. Shouldering the burden of raising his sister’s children and managing his older brother’s affairs, Teddy has always done the right thing. But when his former governess returns to Birchwood, all he can think about is how good it would be to be bad.

*Contains the following themes: older heroine/younger hero, former student/teacher, and forbidden love.

My Book Review : 4 out of 5 stars! Old feelings come into play when a governess comes back into the lives of the family she used to be employed with will she be able to deny her feelings to her boss or will she open her heart to him for good?

This quick read was one that reminded me of an enchanting mixture of Ms. Ross’ "Improper Relations" (because of the ‘sweet/hot older woman’ angle) and Ms. Kleypas’ "Married By Morning" (because of the ‘governess’ angle)! I really enjoyed how Christine & Theodore (Teddy) come together and prove they have more feelings for one another than just lust. It was all very erotically sweet!

I recommend this novella to anyone looking for a fast-paced historical erotic romance!

Purchase This Book Here : KOBO : Tempting the Governess


My Previous Review(s) for this Author : The Lady’s Wicked Proposition

Author's Novel Extras : Tempting the Governess - Overview & Excerpt

Book Teaser(s) :

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

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

Idolizing In: The Blue Heron Series, Book 4

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Paperback - Pages: 473; Kindle Edition - File Size: 635 KB; Audiobook - Unabridged | Expected Release Date: September 30, 2014 | Publisher: Harlequin : HQN Books | Obtained: NetGalley

"In Your Dreams" [The Blue Heron Series, Book 4] by Kristan Higgins

Author's Book Description : EVERYONE LOVES JACK HOLLAND, BUT EMMALINE NEAL NEEDS HIM.

Her ex-fiancé is getting married in Malibu and, obviously, she can’t go to the wedding alone. In Manningsport, New York, tall, blond and gorgeous Jack Holland is practically a cottage industry when it comes to rescuing desperate women. He knows the drill, Em figures, so he won’t get the wrong idea.

What Jack needs is an excuse to leave town. Ever since rescuing four teenagers from a car wreck, he’s been hailed as a hero and the attention is making him itchy, especially since his too-pretty ex-wife is back, angling for a reunion. He’s always liked Emmaline. She needs a weekend date? No problem.

So when they wind up in bed together, Em chalks it up to red wine and chocolate cake, just one impulsive night not to be repeated. But Jack’s pushing for more, and if she lets down her guard, either she’ll get her heart crushed again, or discover that Jack’s worth more than just dreaming about.

My Book Review : 5 out of 5 stars!! Two people trying to move on from bad exes become friends and a whole lot more, if only they can get over their heartaches.

Witty, fun, and dramatic! This had everything you'd want from a Ms. Higgins' novel and more!! I couldn't get enough of Jack & Emmaline's (Em) developing relationship with them being so sweet together! Plus, reading all of the township's antics and the nonstop banter between everyone was entertaining too!

This novel definitely makes me more intrigued about this series and I can't wait to see where everyone will go next!

I recommend this novel for those who like contemporary dramedy romances!

Purchase This Book and/or The Other Books From It's Series Here : Alibris : The Best Man | KOBO : The Best Man | Alibris : The Perfect Match | KOBO : The Perfect Match | Alibris : Waiting On You | KOBO : Waiting On You | Alibris : In Your Dreams | KOBO : In Your Dreams


My Previous Review(s) for this Author : Just One of the Guys | The Next Best Thing | All I Ever Wanted | Until There Was You | Somebody to Love

My Previous Mention(s) of this Author's Books/Characters : "Waiting On" Wednesday: All I Ever Wanted | "Waiting On" Wednesday: Until There Was You | Teaser Tuesdays: Until There Was You | Top 5 Books I'm Thankful For (so far) in 2011 | Best Book Couples -- Happy Valentine's Day 2012 | "Waiting On" Wednesday: Somebody to Love | Disappointmentville: Love Walked In by Marisa de los Santos | "Waiting On" Wednesday: The Best Man

Author's Novel Extras : In Your Dreams - Overview & Excerpt | The delights of Nordstrom’s | Sisters & All Their Glory | Everyday Heroes | Family

Author's Series Extras : The Best Man - Overview & Excerpt | The Perfect Match - Overview & Excerpt | Waiting On You - Overview & Excerpt

Book Teaser(s) :

"Are you guys playing?"
Emmaline, who hadn't said boo, cleared her throat. "We thought it was volleyball. By the way, Jack and I are pretend engaged."
Connor gave him a look, and Jack shrugged. Colleen clapped her hands. "I told you--you should've just committed to that plan to start with. Come on, Connor. Naomi's summoning me. God, I wish Lucas was here!"
"You're not the only one," Connor said.
"Well, believe me, I didn't want to be here with my grumpy-ass brother---oh, and by the way, Connor, you should've said yes to coming to this with Emmaline, because then you wouldn't be here with your sister as your date." ~ within Chapter 8

"You need a ride, Abs?" he asked.
"No, no, I've got Mom's car. You know what I found in it last week?"
"Do I want to?"
"No, but I feel like someone should share my pain, and you could use a distraction. You ready?" She paused for effect. "A riding crop."
"Please tell me she's taken up horseback riding."
"She has not."
"You're a cruel child, Abby."
She grinned. ~ within Chapter 14

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

Teaser Tuesday: Flirting on Ice

"Flirting on Ice" by Veronica Forand & Susan Scott Shelley -- MY REVIEW
Book Teaser:

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

Idolizing In: Shark Shifter Series, Book 1

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 5897 KB | Expected Release Date: August 27, 2014 | Publisher: Pouch Productions | Obtained: NetGalley

"Touching Paradise" [Shark Shifter Series, Book 1] by Cleo Peitsche

Author's Book Description : "TOUCHING PARADISE" (Shark Shifter #1) is an erotic romance of 41,000 words.

Despite his billions in the bank, Koenraad is a shark shapeshifter haunted by secrets and regrets. Unable to move on with his life, he relentlessly patrols the waters near the island he once considered home. Fate puts the beautiful Monroe in his path, and duty demands he offer his services, but one look into her eyes and he knows the lonely, frightened woman secretly yearns for adventure.

Monroe is having a hard time getting into the vacation spirit. She’s surrounded by powdery white sand and swaying palm trees, but she’s terrified of the ocean. When her tour boat breaks down at sea, she’s thrilled to skip the so-called trip of a lifetime. However, a gorgeous man with a sleek yacht is determined to change her mind... and maybe her life.

My Book Review : 5 out of 5 stars!!! While on vacation on a remote island for a friend's wedding Monroe meets a mysterious bachelor who changes her world and life in unexpected ways!

Intensely hot with intriguing twists, I could not put this novella down! I ended up reading it in 3-4 hours! Koenraad & Monroe are an unusual pair that will be interesting to see where their relationship will take them. In addition, I'm curious to find out more about Koenraad's son, since much is alluded about him throughout this novella.

I love the shifter dynamic and Koenraad definitely sold it for me. I hope Monroe will stay as accepting as she was in this novella about his abilities throughout the series. I say that because even though I expect drama to come into their lives I really don't think I'd enjoy reading about anything or anyone permanently coming between them for a while.

I highly recommend this novella and series to those who like paranormal erotic romances!!

-- On a side note --

It reminded me a little of Ms. Arend's Pacific Passion Series.

Purchase This Book and/or The Other Books From It's Series Here : Smashwords : Touching Paradise | KOBO : Touching Paradise | Smashwords : Master of the Deep | KOBO : Master of the Deep | Smashwords : Oceans Untamed | KOBO : Oceans Untamed


Author's Novel Extras : Touching Paradise (The Shark Shifter Paranormal Romance #1) Available!!!

Author's Series Extras : Shark Shifter Series - Overview | Master of the Deep (The Shark Shifter Paranormal Romance #2) Available!!! | Oceans Untamed (The Shark Shifter Paranormal Romance #3) Available!!!

Book Teaser(s) :

"I'm such a dork," she said.
"Thank you for being a dork."
Her smile almost turned genuine. "You were right, again," she said. "I would have kicked myself later."
"That's twice in one day."
"Don't let it go to your head."
"Never." ~ within Chapter 8

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

Second Sentence Saturday: This Weakness for You

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 :

"This Weakness for You" [Taming the Pack Series, Book 2] by Wendy Sparrow

Jordan was torn between satisfaction and trepidation.

---

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!

Feasted On: Atlantic City Hustlers Series, Novella 1

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 1502 KB | Expected Release Date: November 17, 2014 | Publisher: Entangled Publishing : Lovestruck | Obtained: Entangled Publishing

"Flirting on Ice" [Atlantic City Hustlers Series, Novella 1] by Veronica Forand & Susan Scott Shelley

Authors' Book Description : Mr. Perfect has found his kind of trouble...

Professional hockey player Zac Elliott is in top form. He’s having the best season of his career, the local fans can’t get enough of him, and he’s in the middle of the most successful contract negotiations of his career. When the sexy little spark between Zac and the team owner’s daughter blazes to life, no matter how forbidden, he can’t resist.

Philanthropist Heather Ryan can’t keep her hands off of Zac. If her father finds out, it could end Zac’s career and ruin her reputation. What they share is deeply passionate and intensely private...until the press exposes their illicit relationship.

Now the fans have viciously turned against Heather, Zac’s game is faltering, and even his team has deserted him. The only way out of the penalty box is for Zac to play hockey like life—and love—depends on it...

My Book Review : 4.5 out of 5 stars, after four years of getting to know each other through her family's hockey organization Heather finally gives into her desires to know Zac better, however once their relationship becomes known everyone tries to keep them apart. Is sticking together really worth the effort they are going to have to put into winning the approval of everyone or is being apart for the best?

This fast-paced holiday romance will win you over from the beginning! I liked how charismatic Zac is. Also, I enjoyed how he goes about winning over Heather and proving to everyone that their relationship is more than a one-time thing. It was steamy, sweet, & charming!

If this is truly a series, I am interested into seeing where the characters main & secondary will go next!

I recommend this novel to those who want to read an enchanting holiday romance!

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


Authors' Novel Extras : Get Wicked With Entangled Blog Hop

Book Teaser(s) :

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

Sequoia frowned, and any sign of his oldest, dearest friend evaporated. “I don’t usually give you dating advice, but in this case, it’s needed. Don’t screw around with Heather. She’s a good kid and doesn’t need the shit the fans put her through tonight.”
“It’s not like that.”
“What’s it like?”
“I like her. A lot. And I know she feels the same way. She gets me. Almost as much as you do.”
A grin emerged on Sequoia’s face and transformed the two-hundred-pound right-winger back into a friend. “What can I do to help?”
“I need your car. Can you get a ride from someone else tonight?”
“I’ll go with Mikael.” He tossed Zac the keys to his Escalade. “Have fun.” ~ within Chapter 4

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

Feasted On: Taming the Pack Series, Book 2

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 350 KB | Expected Release Date: November 17, 2014 | Publisher: Entangled Publishing : Select Otherworld | Obtained: Entangled Publishing

"This Weakness for You" [Taming the Pack Series, Book 2] by Wendy Sparrow

Author's Book Description : She’s exactly what he wants to sink his teeth into...Jordan is his pack’s Alpha dog. The Big Bad Wolf. And after his last breakup, he’s opting to be the lone wolf, too. But then his rival’s little sister—a human, of all creatures—comes to his door. And suddenly, what should be a tasty little snack turns out to be something more than Jordan could ever imagine...

Christa is simply looking for a place to stay. Yet the dark shifter smells irresistibly like forever. But getting involved with the wolf who tried to kill her brother—twice—is lunacy. Besides, in the unforgiving, shadowed world of shifters, there is no room for weakness. And falling for her family’s enemy won’t just be her downfall...it will be his, too.

My Book Review : 4 out of 5 stars! Get swept up into a world of werewolves with Christa, a human who finds out that she is scent-matched to an Alpha Lycan (Jordan). Will Christa be able to cope with the rapid changes in her life or will it be too much for her?

I really liked this unique pair, Jordan & Christa, as they prove that appearances aren't everything. It was also intriguing to read about a heroine who has a deteriorating disease (multiple sclerosis -- MS) show her worth without that being the sole focus of the novel. I thought it was great! In addition, I liked how Christa kept proving her value to Jordan and his pack. However, what really won me over for this novel was its constant banter and one-liners, as it made it hard for me to choose which teasers I liked the best!

I'd love to see this series expand and see where it goes! Overall, I highly recommend this novel to those who like paranormal romances!

Purchase This Book and/or The Other Books From It's Series Here : KOBO : Past My Defenses | KOBO : This Weakness for You


Author's Novel Extras : This Weakness for You - Overview

Author's Series Extras : Taming the Pack Series - Overview | Past My Defenses - Overview | Titles Read in 2012

Book Teaser(s) :

This was the longest, freakiest road she’d ever driven on. Anything this led to could only end badly.
When she saw a house lit up ahead, she almost turned back. She stepped on the brake, but her leg went limp, so she leaned forward and pressed her hands down on her thigh. The car shuddered to a stop. Yeah, she was real safe to be out on the roads. Reaction time like a ninja.
“I swear this is what her directions say!” She gestured at the house. “I mean, not go to the creepy house at the end of the street, but that turnoff was in the directions.” She grabbed the paper. “And then there’s a happy face.” Shaking her head, Christa threw the directions on the floor. “It’s because I ate the last three marshmallows. How the hell was I to know that marshmallows are sacred? There should have been a sign. ‘Keep out, Christa, if you value your life.’” ~ within Chapter 3

“I feel like Little Orphan Annie...I mean, you saw my last apartment.”
“I don’t think Annie and Daddy Warbucks had this sort of relationship, though, Squeaky. If they did, well, that certainly changes the meaning of some of those songs.” ~ within Chapter 6

“I have never been called a white rabbit, by the way,” he said.
“It was meant to be a compliment.”
“Really?”
“No, not really. I was hoping the insult to your honor would be too much for you to bear, and you’d come home immediately to challenge me.”
“Did you get me ice cream?”
“Either that or I got me a whole lot of ice cream.” He heard the freezer door open, and she popped off the top of the ice cream while opening the silverware drawer. A moment later, she said around a mouthful of ice cream, “Better come home soon.”
“You’re eating that straight from the carton.”
“Yep.”
“What...were you raised by wolves?”
She laughed so hard that she choked and had to get a drink of water before she could talk again. ~ within Chapter 9

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

Happy Veteran's Day 2014

-- Below are photos of my Grandfather when he served in the Army. --

Teaser Tuesday: Christmas Brides

"Christmas Brides" by Suzanne Enoch, Alexandra Hawkins, Elizabeth Essex, & Valerie Bowman -- MY REVIEW
Book Teaser:

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

Happy 30th Birthday to ME!!

Whenever I hear Tim McGraw's song "My Next Thirty Years" I always put in my own words to go on with my life ... so since TODAY is my actual 30th Birthday (YAY!) here is my rendition of the song (with original lyrics):


Want to hear the actual song? Well here is a video someone else put together while using it:

Made the Grade: Christmas Brides by Suzanne Enoch, Alexandra Hawkins, Elizabeth Essex, & Valerie Bowman

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Paperback - Pages: 384; Kindle Edition - File Size: 937 KB | Expected Release Date: September 30, 2014 | Publisher: St. Martin's Press | Obtained: NetGalley

"Christmas Brides" by Suzanne Enoch, Alexandra Hawkins, Elizabeth Essex, & Valerie Bowman

Authors' Book Description : Relax on a silent night and dive into Christmas Brides, a lush historical holiday anthology featuring a brand-new story from USA Today bestselling author Alexandra Hawkins. And back by popular demand from last Christmas, previously published One Hot Scot, The Scandal Before Christmas, and It Happened Under the Mistletoe are back to deck the halls in this sensual Christmas collection.

One Hot Scot by Suzanne Enoch
Duncan Lenox lives surrounded by enemies, a MacLawry in a land of Campbells. But when an English beauty has nowhere else to turn, he feels obligated to help. Now that they must spend a night together in an abandoned cottage while a storm rages on, will their mutual passion save—or doom—them both?

Once Upon a Christmas Scandal by Alexandra Hawkins
Lady Ellen is outraged when she learns her dowry’s been increased by her dad, eager to draw every bachelor in England to her front door. So when Lord Swainsbury comes knocking, Ellen assumes he’s another dreadful fortune hunter. Little does she know that Swainsbury has completely fallen for her—body, heart, and soul...

The Scandal Before Christmas by Elizabeth Essex
Lieutenant Ian Worth needs a wife by Christmas. He has to find her, woo her, and wed her before he goes back to sea. Anne Lesley is a shy spinster with no prospects, so she accepts Ian’s hasty offer only for the security it will bring. But when a midwinter storm rolls in, things start to heat up between them...and they might just find true, honest-to-goodness love

It Happened Under the Mistletoe by Valerie Bowman
Oliver Townsende intends to avoid the hordes of marriage-minded misses at a friend’s holiday party. When he meets Miss Cerian Blake, who’s dodging her own unwanted set of admirers, the two decide to join forces and fake an infatuation to keep their suitors at bay. But when mistletoe becomes involved, will their Christmastime prank turn into a love to last all seasons?

---

"One Hot Scot" [Christmas Brides Anthology, Novella 1] & [Scandalous Highlanders Series, Book 0.5] by Suzanne Enoch

Author's Story Description : While attending her aunt's wedding in Inverness, Julia Prentiss is literally swept off her feet by a man who kidnaps her for her fortune. Julia manages to escape from his estate in the Highlands, only to find herself alone, lost, and hunted in a strange land. When she stumbles across a naked man in a lake, she thinks her luck has gone from bad to worse...or has it?

Duncan Lenox lives surrounded by enemies, a MacLawry in a land of Campbells. With three sisters at home who rely on him, he's become a very cautious man. But when an auburn-haired English beauty has nowhere else to turn, he feels obligated to help. When the two are forced to spend the night in an abandoned cottage while a storm rages and enemies circle, they find a mutual passion that could save -- or doom -- them both.

My Story Review : 3 out of 5 stars, a woman sets out in the Highlands in hopes of celebrating Christmas the way she wanted but finds herself alone in a cabin/cottage with a stranger who promises to help her get back home, if only she doesn’t lose her heart to him first.

It’s a sweet story. Yet, I found the beginning to be a bit slow even though Duncan is naked then. =0)

Nevertheless, I enjoyed how this story picked up in the middle and how Duncan & Julia’s relationship grew throughout it. I do recommend this story to those who like holiday romances that have hot Highlanders in them!

Purchase This Story and/or The Other Stories From It's Series Here : AMAZON.COM : One Hot Scot | KOBO : One Hot Scot | ALIBRIS : The Devil Wears Kilts | AMAZON.COM : The Devil Wears Kilts | KOBO : The Devil Wears Kilts | ALIBRIS : Rogue With A Brogue | AMAZON.COM : Rogue With A Brogue | KOBO : Rogue With A Brogue | AMAZON.COM : Mad, Bad, and Dangerous in Plaid | KOBO : Mad, Bad, and Dangerous in Plaid

Author's Story Extras : One Hot Scot - Overview

Author's Series Extras : The Devil Wears Kilts - Overview & Excerpt | Rogue With A Brogue - Overview & Excerpt

Story Teaser :

She picked up a black knight and showed it to him. "Did you think this would be you today?"
He chuckled. "A black knight? Nae a white knight?"
She grinned back at him. "Well, you were naked."
"Aye. That I was." ~ within Chapter 2

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

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"Once Upon a Christmas Scandal" [Christmas Brides Anthology, Novella 2] & [Lords of Vice Series, Book 7.5] by Alexandra Hawkins

Author's Story Description : Lady Ellen is outraged when she learns her dowry’s been increased by her dad, eager to draw every bachelor in England to her front door. So when Lord Swainsbury comes knocking, Ellen assumes he’s another dreadful fortune hunter. Little does she know that Swainsbury has completely fallen for her—body, heart, and soul...

My Story Review : 4.5 out of 5 stars! A woman, who is coming into her "spinster years," finds out that her parents want her to get a husband so badly, before her father might die, that they raise her dowry and now has to fight off "fortune hunters." Hopefully she won't fight off the one man who wants her for herself...

I love how this story thrusts its readers right into the action from the very beginning. It's a charming story about an independent woman finding a man who tries to protect her from an unknown man. Ellen & Derrick are a perfect matchup, I'm so glad they ended up together! Their romance was one I would read again!

I recommend this story to those who are fans of Ms. Hawkins historical series and to those who like historical holiday romances!

Purchase This Story and/or The Other Stories From It's Series Here : ALIBRIS : All Night with a Rogue | AMAZON.COM : All Night with a Rogue | KOBO : All Night with a Rogue | ALIBRIS : Till Dawn with the Devil | AMAZON.COM : Till Dawn with the Devil | KOBO : Till Dawn with the Devil | AMAZON.COM : After Dark with a Scoundrel | KOBO : After Dark with a Scoundrel | ALIBRIS : Sunrise with a Notorious Lord | AMAZON.COM : Sunrise with a Notorious Lord | KOBO : Sunrise with a Notorious Lord | ALIBRIS : All Afternoon with a Scandalous Marquess | AMAZON.COM : All Afternoon with a Scandalous Marquess | KOBO : All Afternoon with a Scandalous Marquess | ALIBRIS : Dusk with a Dangerous Duke | AMAZON.COM : Dusk with a Dangerous Duke | KOBO : Dusk with a Dangerous Duke | ALIBRIS : Twilight with the Infamous Earl | AMAZON.COM : Twilight with the Infamous Earl | KOBO : Twilight with the Infamous Earl

My Previous Mention(s) of this Author's Books/Characters : Second Sentence Saturday: Once Upon a Christmas Scandal

Author's Story Extras : Christmas Brides - Overview & Excerpt


Story Teaser :

"Enough." Her father raised the book in his hands as if he was fighting down the urge to fling it at the nearest wall. "And what of Mr. Neese? What was wrong with him?"
"His right leg is shorter than his left," she blurted out. "The difference sends him into tables, plants, and walls."
She had exaggerated a bit about Mr. Neese's clumsiness. However, she had sensed her mother's meddling the moment the gentleman had awkwardly asked her to dance. She had put them both out of misery as quickly as possible.
"And Lord Rouger?"
Ellen tried not to share at the muscle twitching near her father's left eye. "What of him?"
"Did you truly liken his handsomeness to your favorite horse?"
She leaned forward, her face guileless. "It was a sincere compliment, Papa." ~ within Chapter 1

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

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"The Scandal Before Christmas" [Christmas Brides Anthology, Novella 3] & [The Reckless Brides Series, Book 3.5] by Elizabeth Essex

Author's Story Description : Lieutenant Ian Worth needs a wife by Christmas, and he can’t afford to be choosy. He has to find her, woo her, and wed her before he goes back to sea—all within a matter of days. Anne Lesley is a shy spinster with no prospects, and nothing and no one to recommend her but her own self. She accepts the lieutenant’s hasty offer only for the comfort and security it will bring. But when a midwinter storm snows her and Ian in, they both find they got much more than they bargained for—laughter, light, and a Christmas filled with honest to goodness true love...

My Story Review : 3 out of 5 stars, this is a sweet historical romance that keeps entertained while allowing you to enjoy catching up with favorite past characters.

Ian and Anne's story is charming in the way that they become friends, to confidants, to lovers. Plus it helped that they have similar interests.

All in all, I recommend it to anyone who is a fan of the series and to those who enjoy historical (slightly erotic) romances!

Purchase This Story and/or The Other Stories From It's Series Here : ALIBRIS : Almost a Scandal | AMAZON.COM : Almost a Scandal | KOBO : Almost a Scandal | ALIBRIS : A Breath of Scandal | AMAZON.COM : A Breath of Scandal | KOBO : A Breath of Scandal | ALIBRIS : Scandal in the Night | AMAZON.COM : Scandal in the Night | KOBO : Scandal in the Night | AMAZON.COM : The Scandal Before Christmas | KOBO : The Scandal Before Christmas | ALIBRIS : After the Scandal | AMAZON.COM : After the Scandal | KOBO : After the Scandal | ALIBRIS : A Scandal to Remember | AMAZON.COM : A Scandal to Remember | KOBO : A Scandal to Remember | AMAZON.COM : A Scandal to Remember | KOBO : A Scandal to Remember

My Previous Review(s) for this Series : Book 1 | Book 3.5

My Previous Mention(s) of this Author's Books/Characters : Teaser Tuesdays: Almost a Scandal | Feasted On: Eloisa's Fairy Tales Series, Book 4 | The Books I'm Thankful For (so far) in 2012 | Best Book Couples -- Happy Valentine's Day 2013

Author's Story Extras : Pinterest: The Scandal Before Christmas | The Scandal Before Christmas - Overview & Excerpt

Author's Series Extras : Pinterest: Almost a Scandal | Pinterest: A Breath of Scandal | Pinterest: Scandal in the Night | Pinterest: After the Scandal | Pinterest: A Scandal to Remember | Almost A Scandal - Overview & Excerpt | A Breath of Scandal - Overview & Excerpt | Scandal in the Night - Overview & Excerpt | After the Scandal - Overview & Excerpt | A Scandal to Remember - Overview & Excerpt | Sal & Col named Best Book Couples

Story Teaser :

Yet still, she did not speak.
But with the mother still carrying on---"This chimney appears to draw well. So important to have a fire that draws cleanly, don't you think? I always say..."---no one could get a word in edgewise. It was no wonder the girl was silent as the tomb.
God's balls. Maybe she was a mute, who never spoke. Or couldn't. Maybe--- ~ within Chapter 3

TEASER #2 ~ within Chapter 5

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

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"It Happened Under the Mistletoe" [Christmas Brides Anthology, Novella 4] & [The Secret Brides Series, Book 3.5] by Valerie Bowman

Author's Story Description : When Oliver Townsende escapes to his friend’s house for a Christmas party, he intends to avoid the hordes of marriage-minded misses who have been dogging his steps in London ever since he inherited a dukedom. He soon learns a bit of Yuletide peace and quiet is too much to ask for. When he encounters Miss Cerian Blake, who’s dodging her own unwanted set of admirers, the two decide to join forces and fake an infatuation to keep their suitors at bay. But when a bough of mistletoe becomes involved, will their Christmastime prank turn into a love to last all seasons?

My Story Review : 3.5 out of 5 stars! Two people are looking for the same thing in finding a spouse ... a love match but, because of their inheritances, it's hard to find that certain person who is being true ... that is until they meet each other.

Oliver and Cerian's blossoming romance is one that I thoroughly enjoyed reading about. From their growing friendship to their personal worries/feelings for each other, this novella is one that I didn't want to finish, as I liked the main characters so much. In addition, that mysterious cat was fun to find out about, especially when it kept showing up at the most opportune times and suddenly wearing random decorations.

Overall, I recommend this novella to anyone who likes historical romances!

Purchase This Story and/or The Other Stories From It's Series Here : ALIBRIS : Secrets of a Wedding Night | AMAZON.COM : Secrets of a Wedding Night | KOBO : Secrets of a Wedding Night | AMAZON.COM : A Secret Proposal | KOBO : A Secret Proposal | ALIBRIS : Secrets of a Runaway Bride | AMAZON.COM : Secrets of a Runaway Bride | KOBO : Secrets of a Runaway Bride | AMAZON.COM : A Secret Affair | KOBO : A Secret Affair | ALIBRIS : Secrets of a Scandalous Marriage | AMAZON.COM : Secrets of a Scandalous Marriage | KOBO : Secrets of a Scandalous Marriage | AMAZON.COM : It Happened Under The Mistletoe | KOBO : It Happened Under The Mistletoe

My Previous Review(s) for this Series : Book 3.5

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

Author's Story Extras : It Happened Under the Mistletoe - Overview & Excerpt | Dashing Duchess Release: It Happened Under the Mistletoe (Giveaway!) | It Happened Under the Mistletoe is on Sale Now and FREE Christmas Presents!

Author's Series Extras : The Secret Brides Series - Overview | Secrets of a Wedding Night - Overview & Excerpt | A Secret Proposal - Overview & Excerpt | Secrets of a Runaway Bride - Overview & Excerpt | A Secret Affair - Overview & Excerpt | Secrets of a Scandalous Marriage - Overview & Excerpt | Valerie Bowman Books May News! | New Release, Signing, & a Workshop at the RWA National Conference in Atlanta! | August Workshops, Preorder Gift, and Say Yes to the Dress Update! | Secrets of a Scandalous Marriage earns a STARRED review from Publishers Weekly! | Runaway Bride is an RT Reviewers’ Choice Nominee and December News!

Story Teaser :

TEASER #1 ~ within Chapter 2

"Seems the entire house party is talking about us," he began.
She pursed her lips. "No doubt they're agog at our antics."
He nodded.
"It is what we wanted, after all," she pointed out.
"Indeed."
He opened his mouth to speak, then closed it again. Then he repeated both actions. Twice.
"Your grace?" ~ within Chapter 8

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

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My Book Review : For the full book I give it 3.5 out of 5 stars!! These were engaging holiday romances that I believe anyone who likes reading about historical books would enjoy! I definitely recommend this anthology to those who what to read about handsome and charming historical heroes who end up winning a wife during the holiday season!

Purchase This Book and/or The Other Books That Connect To Some Of The Above Stories Here : KOBO : Christmas Brides | ALIBRIS : Christmas Brides



Authors' Anthology Extras : Ms. Hawkins' Christmas Brides - Overview & Excerpt | Ms. Essex's Christmas Brides - Overview & Excerpt | Ms. Bowman's Christmas Brides - Overview & Excerpt | Ms. Bowman's Christmas Brides - Overview & Excerpt | September News! Maggie Finalist and the Christmas Brides are Coming!

Book Teaser(s) :

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