Marilyn's Red Diary by E. Z. Friedel

Blurb:
Based on shocking new information, a fictional account of what might have happened to the iconic and troubled star is revealed in MARILYN'S RED DIARY. Incorporating the people who tried to protect her, and those that may have killed her, this shocking and scandalous story is told by Marilyn herself as she recounts the events of the day-and the steamy, sexual encounters of the night-confiding in her diary all the details of her dirty little secrets about the famous and powerful. At the time of her death, the diary, if discovered, with its explicit insider knowledge of covert activities, would have brought down the U.S. government, the Kennedys, and the CIA. MARILYN'S RED DIARY is at times funny, scandalous and sad, but always brutally honest. Marilyn Monroe is caught between intellectual giants-her awkward, award-winning playwright husband, Arthur, and her dashing politician boyfriend, Jack. Then along comes Jack's fiery brother, Bobby. The world's dream girl relates her intimate adventures in this touching portrait of a hard-working, extremely bright woman, trapped in her own sensuality and, tragically born far ahead of her time.

Review:
I MUST state ahead of time that this story is NOT based on real events. In fact, right in the front of the book you will find this statement: "This book is a work of fiction. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or historical events is purely coincidental." I felt it was pertinent to address that issue because a lot of readers, including me, assumed this was a true depiction of an icon who made a huge impacted American history. By the way, isn't that cover amazing? I'm really loving it right now.

Looking at Marilyn's Red Diary in a fictional light, I found that it was entertaining and very sensual. I was not around during Marilyn's time, so although this was a work of fiction, I was able to cross reference a good portion of the book and learn the real story (as historically correct as google gets anyway) behind the characters and events surrounding Marilyn's life and death. If you are looking for an entertaining, racy and compelling novel, you should purchase Marilyn's Red Diary. It will definitely have you talking about the book to those in your inner circle. If you are anything like me, it will open your eyes to what her life very well might have been like.

Keep your eye on the "click here" link below as several times there will be free ebook offers for this book on Amazon. If you happen to get a free copy, please let the author know how you felt about Marilyn's Red Diary by providing a review.

CLICK HERE

The Look of Love (Sullivans) by Bella Andre

Blurb:
Chloe Peterson has vowed never to make the mistake of trusting a man again. Her reasons are as vivid as the bruises on her cheek. So when her car skids off a wet country road straight into a ditch, she's convinced the gorgeous guy who rescues her must be too good to be true.

As a successful international photographer, Chase Sullivan has his pick of beautiful women. He's satisfied with his life—until he finds Chloe and her totaled car on the side of the road in Napa Valley.

With every loving look—and every sinfully sweet caress—the attraction between them sizzles, and Chloe can't help but wonder if she's met the man who may be the exception to her rule…

Review:
Bella Andre is not an author I am familiar with... until now! When I found out The Look of Love was the first in a series of contemporary romance books, I was psyched as they are my favorite. I love being able to revisit characters in subsequent books. Talk about a line up of talented and gorgeous siblings that include a photographer, a winery owner, an actor, a baseball player, an owner, a firefighter, a dance choreographer and a librarian. They all just make you want to kiss mama Sullivan and say "Thank you for such a gorgeous bunch".

Chase is the photographer out of the Sullivan offspring who captures raw, emotional moments through his camera lens. Being behind the lens, it's obvious that he sees traits in people that others may not see. Enter Chloe. A wounded bombshell who doesn't even realize how beautiful inside and out she really is. Coming from an abusive relationship, Chloe is on the run from the hands of her abuser. Almost from the first moment they meet, there is electricity flowing between the two.

The Look of Love is a story that contains both strengths and weaknesses, as with any book. What I look for in a contemporary romance is sizzle, characters I feel I can bond with and the promise of seeing these characters again. Check, check and check. Score for Ms. Andre. I did feel that some of the plot line at times was hard to believe in that Chloe and Chase fell in love very quickly. But in defense of this, why do we read romance books? To experience the real world or to live a fantasy, to escape? As for me, I'm all for escaping into a good book whenever I can, working toward the main goal of watching two characters fall in love. And that they do, in the hottest, most erotic way.

I have definitely become a fan of Bella Andre and look forward to the entire Sullivan series. Ms. Andre, congratulations on a well written, exciting and passionate book. Here's to many future sales.

Please follow the blog tour for The Look of Love by clicking here. I know myself and others would love if you commented on the post and followed our blogs through GFC or whichever form available to follow. It really does help us to know what you think about our reviews.

Bare It All by Lori Foster - Blog Tour

Blurb:

As the person responsible for taking down a brutal human trafficker, Alice Appleton fears retaliation at every turn. No one knows about her past, which is exactly how she prefers it...until the sexy cop next door comes knocking.

Detective Reese Bareden thinks he knows what makes women tick, but his ever-elusive neighbor keeps him guessing like no other. Is his goal to unmask Alice's secrets? Or protect her from a dangerous new threat? One thing is certain: their chemistry is a time bomb waiting to explode. And with no one to trust but each other, Reese and Alice are soon drawn into a deadly maze of corruption, intrigue and desire-and into the line of fire

Review:

First, I'd like to see by a show of hands .... who thinks that the cover of Bare It All is simply to die for?  I know right?  Hot hot hot!  Ok, let's all wipe the drool from our chins and get on with the review of this sizzling, addicting read.

I fell in love with Alice Appleton because she is a fearless warrior and advocate for women who can't defend themselves.  Although Alice is an enchanting, genuine and gutsy female, she has a quietness about her that makes the reader want to protect her.  Enter Reese Baredon, the ever so handsome alpha male sleeping on Alice's couch.  When Reese is around, Alice finds it hard to concentrate on anything but his body. I found it comical  when Reese had to keep repeating "eyes up here Alice."  A typical trait that most men have, it was Alice who was having a hard time keeping her eyes off of Reese's body. I found myself grinning at the repartee between these two.

It goes without saying that Lori Foster is an incredibly talented romantic suspense writer who outdoes herself with each new book.  When I realized that Trace (From Trace of Fever) made an appearance in Bare It All, I was ecstatic.  Even though characters from previous books appear in Bare It All, Lori Foster clues the reader in on any character development that may be vital.  Each book can be read as a standalone but I highly recommend getting your hands on each and every book that is in this series.  A definite page turner with steamy love scenes and gripping plot line, Bare it All is a must have in ever romantic suspense library. 

Keep your eyes glued to the Love Undercover series, you definitely don't want to miss one.  Here they are in order.

1.  Run the Risk

2.  Bare It All

3.  Getting Rowdy

4.  Dash

Watch the video to Bare it All

Don't forget to follow the rest of the book tour - click here

Deadly Revenge by Nancy Kay

Blurb:

After Culinary Herb Gardener Ada Blaine loses the love of her life, she avoids men and spends years turning a beloved hobby into a thriving business. Former Marine Rich McConnell left behind a nasty divorce and traded a promising military career for a hardware store with no complications. He discovers he can't keep his hands off the elusive gardener, and her determination to remain independent falters when the ever-charming Rich weakens the wall Ada's built around her heart. Then just as late-in-life second-chance love seems possible, Ada is threatened by a sniper's bullet, and Rich's past comes back to haunt him.

Review:

What a refreshing read this was and for a variety of reasons.  Most romance books that I read always include twenty something main characters.  In Deadly Revenge, the main characters happen to be middle aged, which being close to middle aged myself, helps me to relate more to the characters and on a deeper level.  It's proof that being middle aged does not mean that your love life has to be desolate.  Although Ada and Rich have known each other for quite some time, they can pin point just when their friendship turned into admiration.  Not only is it enjoyable to read a love story about middle aged characters, but it's also brought to the reader's attention that these two characters are established in both their professional and personal lives.  I personally find it exhilarating to know that Ada and Rich know exactly what they want out of life and love.  They admit their strengths as well as their weaknesses.

I think Ada has to be my favorite character so far in this series.  She's stubborn to a fault but is also steadfast in knowing that no threat is going to make her live in fear.  Rich is fiercely loyal to Ada and vows to protect her no matter what the cost.  Being an ex-marine, he brings an element of badass to the table which just increases his hotness factor.  I found Deadly Revenge to be laced with intrigue and humor with a steady progression that kept the story flowing sweetly.  There was not a dull moment.  The ending was surprising as well as action packed.  I certainly didn't see that twist in the story coming.

Deadly Revenge is book two in the Deadly Triad series.  Book one is Deadly Reflection which involves Ada's niece Cassie and Nick McGraw, a Philadelphia Detective.  Book three in the Deadly Triad series is Deadly Encounter which is TJ and Lanie's story.  Each book in this series can be read as a standalone.  However, I can guarantee once you have read one, you will want to read them all.  It's no wonder that Nancy Kay is one of my favorite authors, each time I read a new book she's written, I fall in love with her writing style all over again.  So to Ms. Kay I say once again, you've written another stellar book and I look forward to reading the final book in the series.  To all the readers I'd like to say hurry out and buy Deadly Revenge, it's a must have for your book shelf.

Buy Book One: Deadly Reflection by clicking here or directly from Desert Breeze Publishing here

Buy Book Two: Deadly Revenge by clicking here or directly from Desert Breeze Publishing here

Buy Book Three: Deadly Encounter by clicking here or directly from Desert Breeze Publishing here 

Burned Into Time by Mary M. Ricksen

Blurb:

A horrific car accident, a Celtic ring and destiny, send a young woman on a journey to the past. In a desperate search for her lost sister, she follows the instructions left her in a bank vault from a hundred years ago.

Little did she know the ring would save her life and change it in ways she could never imagine. Does she have the strength to live through her nightmare and find her destiny?

Can she face her sister now that things have changed so drastically? Only time will tell…

Review:

Lacy finds herself in a fiery car crash that leads to a pivotal moment in her life.  How can one moment change her entire being?  From the way she looks at life to the way she responds to people, nothing in her life will ever be the same.  Life as she knew it is over.  Will she be able to deal with her new life?

As the book progresses, Lacy finds that there are many inner obstacles that she must confront and overcome.  Her trust in men being one of them. Lacy's trust is pushed to the limit. The reason of her fear in men is later revealed which helps the reader bond with Lacy's character and the need to root her on especially through dire situations

Sean finds a woman who is badly burned, and in the snow of all places.  How can this be?  With questions coming from every direction, he takes it upon himself to take in this beautiful young woman and nurse her back to good health.  Little does he realize how important this mystery woman will become to him.

A favorite character of mine was a secondary character who didn't even have any speaking lines.  That character's name was King, the dog.  I found it touching how loyal and lovable he was to Lacy and Sean.  This degree of loyalty added another layer to the story which I thought was essential.

From the first action packed pages, I found myself gripped in the throes of the very engaging plot line.  I couldn't help but notice how well researched the customs and time period were.  I even found myself learning about customs and some odd little facts that I was not aware of up until I read Burned Into Time.  I know it may seem trivial to some but one of the little nuggets of knowledge I came away with was "the third eye" (google it).  If you would like a condensed version of the meaning and how it relates to this story, I suggest you pick up a copy of this book. 

For as long as I can remember, I've always been a series (and epilogue) girl.  I find it exciting that I can follow characters over a certain amount of time.  Little did I know that Burned Into Time was the second book in the Time Can Heal Your Heart series.  Book One is Keealyn's story and is called Tripping Through Time.  You can bet that I will be reading that one in the very near future.  You certainly don't need to read Tripping Through Time to understand what is going on in the second book, in fact I didn't even know that Burned Into Time was a series book until I got a few chapters in.

Ms. Ricksen writes with the knowledge of a well seasoned writer.  Just when you think you have the story figured out, another twist in the road is presented.  With deeply evolved characters and a plot line you won't soon forget, Burned Into Time will grip you by the heartstrings and not let you go until the final sentence of the book. I'm anxiously awaiting the next book in the series.  Pick up your copy of Burned Into Time, you'll want to get the entire series.  Yes, it's THAT good!  This is one book you want to add to your MUST READ book list.

Click here to buy this book.

Run the Risk - Lori Foster Blog Tour

WOW is all I have to say when it comes to anything Lori Foster. I was pumped when I was asked to be a stop on the BookTrib Blog tour for Lori Foster's new book Run the Risk. First before we begin, here is a little bit about the book, the author and all the info you need in order to buy the book.

RUN THE RISK by Lori Foster

A police detective goes undercover to investigate a murder, and his target is a mousy young lady he believes is the link he needs to solve the case. But little does he know that his plain-Jane suspect has her own secrets that will turn his case head over heels before it’s over.

Folks, pay attention. If you are like me and LOVE series books, Run the Risk is the FIRST book in her brand-new original series. Woot Woot! How exciting is THAT?

When handsome construction worker Logan Riske moves next door to the dowdy young Pepper Yates, she can’t believe her luck. Her new beau has everything she wants in a guy—looks, charm, style. He also has one thing she doesn't even suspect—a badge.

Logan is really an undercover cop investigating the homicide of his best friend and he’s sure that the shy, introverted Pepper is concealing the whereabouts of her eyewitness brother, Rowdy. Logan needs Rowdy’s testimony to bring crime boss Morton Andrews to justice for the murder, and he’ll go to any lengths to obtain it—even seducing Rowdy’s wallflower sister.

The longer Logan’s seductive charade goes on, however, the more he starts to see through Pepper’s drab exterior to the true beauty beneath. Despite all his training, Logan can’t stop himself from falling for Pepper. But to warn her now will cost him any chance of trapping her brother and bringing his friend’s killer to justice. Like it or not, Logan’s going to see this masquerade through to the end, even if it costs him what he now values most—Pepper.

But Pepper Yates is no one’s fool. She and her brother have managed to survive on the run by trusting no one, especially a flirtatious neighbor with romantic intentions. Despite her undeniable attraction to Logan, Pepper isn't about to risk her brother’s life by falling prey to her passions.

But no matter what she does, it may be too late. Rowdy is already caught in the killer’s cross-hairs and Pepper knows it’s up to her to do whatever it takes to save him no matter who stands in her way…even Logan.

Since first publishing in January 1996, Lori Foster has become a Waldenbooks, Borders, USA TODAY, Publishers Weekly and New York Times bestselling author.

Lori believes it’s important to give back to the community as much as possible, so she routinely arranges events among authors and readers to gather donations for various organizations.


I am psyched to tell you that I was asked to do a little Q&A about Run the Risk with Lori Foster, so without making you wait any longer (I know the suspense is killing you), here we go ...

1. If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?

Stella Cameron. You’ll never meet a nicer, more grounded, generous and talented author. Back before I’d ever gotten published, I was a huge fan. (I'm STILL a huge fan.) I was green and nervous and unpublished when I met Stella in person and wow, she was so incredibly kind to me. That first meeting is something I will never, ever forget, because she had such an amazing impact on me. I love her for what she gave to me: encouragement, confidence, and her wisdom. I seriously doubt I’d be where I am today if it weren't for Stella. Still, when I need advice, I go to Stella. She's never steered me wrong. To this day, whenever I do a favor for a new writer, I always think of the example she set and how fortunate I feel to be able to pay it forward. She will always remain a most cherished friend.

2. Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?

Yes! Macy Beckett has SULTRY WITH A TWIST coming out in October, and it’s amazing. I got to do an early read, and loved it. Now I’m waiting for the 2nd book! If you like small town charm with Alpha heroes and fun heroines, amusing dialogue and steamy romance, trust me, you’ll love this one!


3. What can we expect from this new series?

Lots of action. Lots of steam. Related books, but each one will stand alone. A little suspense, a few laughs. I hope readers can expect unique characters and new plots but with the same elements usually found in books, the parts that readers enjoy.

4. Name one entity that you feel supported you outside of family members.

My good friend Duffy Brown. She and I started writing around the same time, and I can’t even tell you the number of phone calls we've had to commiserate, sound off on a plot glitch, laugh or curse. Duffy has let me vent many times, encouraged me when I needed it, and celebrated all the industry stuff that family sometimes doesn't “get.” She’s a fabulous author, and a very dear friend.

As I wrap up this post, I would like to thank everyone who has stopped by my page to read more about Lori and Run the Risk. I've been a fan of Lori's forever and there isn't one book that I haven't enjoyed. I would like to thank BookTrib (one of the best book sites EVER) for allowing me to do this post on Lori and her new book. Just click here to check out more stops on the blog tour and to see the video for Run the Risk.

Please feel free to comment and follow my blog, I love to hear from you guys!

Win A Meet With Lori Foster!!

Can you guys believe this? You can win a chance to meet Lori Foster at the 2013 Annual Reader and Author Get Together, thanks to Harlequin! OMG, I wanna win, I wanna win, I WANT TO WIN! OK tell you what, instead of keeping all the information to myself and therefore making the chance for me to win better, I will give you all the details so you can enter for yourself. That's how much I think you rock!

Start: Sept 17th-10AM EST
End: Oct 1st- 11:59PM EST
Prize: A Trip to West Chester, Ohio to Meet Lori Foster at her 2013 Annual Reader & Author Get Together

Details: To ENTER: Submit a creative caption for the cover art of Lori Foster’s RUN THE RISK.
You can vote once per day your favorite entries.

So click the link HERE to take you to the Facebook page

Here's a heads up on the picture you will be captioning.

Good Luck everyone!

Dark Moon by Maggie Tideswell

Blurb:
A spellbinding novel of love, murder, and the supernatural. Chance meetings can have far-reaching effects. Loved ones may not be who they seem. The line between comprehension and confusion is thin ~ particularly when one's thoughts are being manipulated by another. In Dark Moon, the eternal triangle takes an innovative twist into the occult as dark magic fights against those who serve the Light. The prize? A woman's soul.

Review:
Before I begin this review, I must say that being from South Africa myself, I enjoyed the small nuances throughout the book pertaining to South African culture. A word here or phrase there made this a must read book for me. I found this to be a refreshing change from any other author I have read.

Now let's get on to the review shall we? Although I found the story a little bit confusing at first, there does come an "ah ha" moment. The moment when everything comes together to make up a thrilling read of suspense, murder, angst and love. With characters I loved to hate and one I even hated to love, I found Dark Moon to be a full-bodied novel of intrigue and passion.

Never before have I read anything by Maggie Tideswell and now that I have, I have another author to add to my "favorites" list. Even if you are not a fan of paranormal, you will find yourself sitting down with a page turner that is a pulse-pounding read. I strongly recommend Dark Moon.

You can buy Dark Moon here

Linda Lael Miller - Big Sky Mountain - Blog Tour

Welcome to the next stop on the Linda Lael Miller's blockbuster summer hit series, this time featuring Big Sky Mountain. Towards the end of June, I was privileged enough to host a tour stop with the first book in the series, Big Sky Country. Now, it's time to take a look at Big Sky Mountain, the second book in the series. So let's check this book out shall we?

Blurb:
With his rugged good looks, vast wealth and family name, hell-raiser Hutch Carmody is still the golden boy of Parable, Montana. But he's done some growing up—making peace with his illegitimate half brother and inheriting half of Whisper Creek Ranch, which should have been all his. These days, Hutch knows there are some things money can't buy: like the heart of loving, ladylike divorcée Kendra Shepherd.

Kendra's quiet mansion reminds her of what she wants most—a devoted husband and the pitter-patter of little feet. She can't get Hutch Carmody out of her mind. But a rough-and-tumble cowboy like Hutch, coming home for family dinner? Seems crazy! Then again, crazier dreams have become reality under the vast Montana sky.

Excerpt:
He held up both hands, like a referee about to call a foul in some fast-paced game. “Stop.”
Everything halted—with a sickening lurch.
The music died.
The bride and her brother seemed frozen in midstride.
Hutch would have sworn the universe itself has stopped expanding.

“This is all wrong,” he went on miserably, but with his back straight and his head up. It wasn’t as if he hadn’t broached the subject with Brylee before—he’d been trying to get out of this fix for weeks. Just the night before, in fact, he’d sat Brylee down in a vinyl upholstered booth at the Silver Lanes snack bar and told her straight out that he had serious misgivings about getting married and needed some breathing space.

Brylee had cried, her mascara smudging, her nose reddening at the tip.
“You don’t mean it,” she’d said, which was her standard response to any attempt he made to put on the brakes before they both plummeted over a matrimonial cliff.

I absolutely fell in love with the video that goes along with the series. Now these cowboys are swoon worthy.



What did I tell you? I think it got a little hot in here. I have the pleasure of posting a little Q&A session with Linda. I enjoyed the responses and know you will too.

1. Your book covers are known to feature very good-looking men. Do the models always reflect how you envision the characters?

My book covers are fantastic, aren’t they? They’re done by the magnificent Margie Miller, at Harlequin/Toronto, and she and her talented and seemingly tireless team always go all out to match the models to the stories. As for whether the models actually look like the men my mind as I’m writing their stories—yes. To a remarkable degree.

2. What is your guilty pleasure?

I have several guilty pleasures. (That I’ll admit to, anyway.) I love to play slot machines, and also Slingo and Solitaire on my iPhone. My idea of luxury is a long bubble bath, with candlelight and a good book.


3. Where do you like to travel?

I’ve basically been all over the world, and I especially enjoy visiting places that a) I’ve never seen or b) return to perennial favorites, like London and Florence. I always have a good time in New York, and I love being in Las Vegas early each December, for the National Finals Rodeo.


4. If you were not a writer, what would be your career?

I think I would be a starving artist—I’m not very good, but I passionately love mixed media painting, working with polymer clay and making artist trading cards, which are the 2 ½ by 3 ½ size, like a sports card. If not an artist, I would most likely be a motivational speaker. I like encouraging people.


5. Describe your favorite meal.

This is not going to be healthy. My favorite meal is fried chicken, mashed potatoes and gravy, and green beans boiled up Southern style, with bacon and onions. Maybe I love this dish because my mom and both grandmothers made it often, and it was always special.

I'd like to thank Linda Lael Miller and BookTrib for giving me the opportunity to blog about both Big Sky Country and Big Sky Mountain. It's been a lot of fun. Now before I leave you, just click here to continue onto the blog tour. I can't wait to read tomorrow's yummy excerpt. Until then, follow my blog if you will. I hope you all have a wonderful day.

An American Family Blog Tour Scavenger Hunt

So is everyone ready for yet ANOTHER amazing Scavenger hunt? The book we are focusing on this week is An American Family by Peter Lefcourt
So let's get to this shall we? Here is more on this amazing piece of work.

Excerpt
For one thing, he was younger than just about everyone in the junior class. And shorter. The girls treated him like their kid brother. His classmates referred to him as a grind. The truth was that he didn’t spend a lot of time on his homework, and yet still managed to get good grades, especially in English, where his teachers said he had extraordinary verbal skills.

For a kid with “extraordinary verbal skills,” Steven didn’t talk a lot. He had a few friends and no social life. Don’t worry—he’ll blossom, Nathan continued to assure everyone, but it didn’t look like Steven Perl was blossoming—certainly not during lunch period, when he chose to sit alone in the Boys room instead of joining his classmates in the cafeteria.
He wasn’t looking forward to Thanksgiving next week. His half-brothers were coming, as was his great Uncle Meyer, who always pinched his cheek till it hurt.

I just have one quick question for you Mr. Lefcourt, How has your personal experience as a Jewish American influenced the book?

My experience growing up as a first-generation Polish American Jew in New York was the genesis of this book. I wanted to capture the emotional and psychological effects of the clash of the immigrant Jewish culture with the adopted American one. I was not interested so much in telling my story personally – this book is not an autobiographical novel – but the story of all immigrant cultures, Italian, Irish, African-American, Vietnamese, as well as Jewish. My father came to New York from a shtetl village in Poland in 1922 not knowing a word of English and became a lawyer; I grew up playing stickball on the streets of Queens and became a writer; my son grew up in Los Angeles, went to Yale and became a humanitarian worker who at the moment is in Kyrgyzstan. This evolution, over merely three generations, fascinates me. Our life experiences have been so different, and yet there is an identity linking us together.

I wanted to set this story against the enormous social changes that took place in the second half of the twentieth century: the cultural rift created by the Vietnam War, the rise of feminism, gay identity, the pervasive influence of music. And to show how my characters navigated these changes. I created the fictitious family, the Perls, and decided to tell the story through the shifting point of view of five siblings, all, like me, born in the 1940’s. I chose the two iconic dates of this period – November 22, 1963 and September 11, 2001 – as a parenthesis to enclose the era.

I was interested in the evolution of the family through all these changes – how it adapts to the most dramatic and sweeping changes and still survives as the emotional focus of our lives. I disagree with Tolstoy: all happy families are not alike.


Now for some reviews by some well respected sources:

“You can count the wonderful novels about Hollywood on two hands. The Deal is one of them…” - Los Angeles Times Book Review

“Di & I displays Mr. Lefcourt’s bright conversational style and expert comic timing.” - New York Times Book Review

“Lefcourt is good about all the ways we are bad.” - Diane Sawyer

Blurb:
What did it mean to become American in the mid-20th century? Peter Lefcourt goes beyond assimilation to take a nostalgic and dramatic look at what makes us truly American in AN AMERICAN FAMILY: A Novel (Amazon e-book; $3.99; May 1, 2012). Lefcourt, known for his best-selling comic novels -- The Deal, The Dreyfus Affair, Di & I, Abbreviating Ernie, The Woody, Eleven Karens and The Manhattan Project -- takes a more serious approach here as he revives the settings, styles and sentiments of the 20th century.

Roots, The Godfather, Angela’s Ashes, The Joy Luck Club, My Antonia, The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay, Middlesex are just a few of the great family sagas that have evoked our shared immigrant experience. AN AMERICAN FAMILY is told through the shifting points of view of the five Perl siblings born in the 1940’s, between the two iconic dates of the last fifty years: the assassination of John F. Kennedy and the catastrophe of 9/11. Within this time frame the Perl family is swept up in the sweeping cultural changes of those years: the Vietnam War, the sexual revolution, rock and roll, drugs, women’s liberation, and the civil rights movement.

During this turbulent time, we meet the Perls -- Meyer, the immigrant tailor with a weakness for Yiddish theater actresses, whose nephew, Nathan, would become a fabric cutter on Seventh Avenue and the patriarch of the clan; Jackie, the young lawyer with a weakness for women, alcohol and Italian-American “clients”; Michael, the business genius intent on building his fortune; Elaine, the married school teacher who wants more from her life than being merely a wife and mother; Stephen, the brilliant and sensitive artist who struggles with his talent and his sexuality; and Roberta, the rebel hungry to experience perhaps a little too much of what life has to offer.

Lefcourt reaches back to his own family and memories to inform this saga. “Though this is not an autobiographical novel, it is, in a larger sense, a ‘cultural autobiography’ – specifically, that of Jewish-Americans born in the 1940’s. Our experiences are similar to that of all immigrants – Italian, Irish, Vietnamese, Iranian, etc. – as we all navigate the tide of our new culture.”

Peter Lefcourt is a refugee from the trenches of Hollywood, where he has distinguished himself as a writer and producer of film and television. Among his credits are “Cagney and Lacey,” for which he won an Emmy Award; “Monte Carlo,” in which he managed to keep Joan Collins in the same wardrobe for 35 pages; the relentlessly sentimental “Danielle Steel’s Fine Things,” and the underrated and hurried “The Women of Windsor,” the most sordid, and thankfully last, miniseries about the British Royal Family. He is a 30 handicap golfer, drinks too much good wine, and has never been awarded the Nobel Prize for anything.

AN AMERICAN FAMILY:
A Novel
By Peter Lefcourt
Amazon e-book; May 1, 2012
$3.99; 355 pages
ISBN: 978-1-4675-2353-0

You can buy An American Family here

Now continue on your way through this blog tour by clicking here. Thanks so much for stopping by.

Linda Lael Miller - Big Sky Country - Tour Blog

This is just one stop on the tour, here is the link for the complete list. After you read this blog post, don't forget to continue you on for all the "Big Sky Country" goodness.


Excerpt
A knot clenched Joslyn’s stomach and moved up her windpipe into her throat. “Coincidence,” she murmured, when she could manage to speak.

Her hands trembled a little as she pulled the carafe out from under the trickling stream of coffee and sloshed some into each of the mugs.

“If you say so,” Kendra said mildly.

As Joslyn turned, a cup in each hand, Kendra pushed back her chair and stood. “I’d better run,” she added. “I have a closing this morning, and then I’m showing a chicken farm for the seventeenth time to the same potential buyer.” She looked down at her shoes. “Do you think I should wear boots instead of these heels?”

Joslyn was so relieved by the change of subject that she didn’t protest. “Probably,” she agreed, imagining Kendra high-heeling it around a chicken farm.

That was a cute excerpt right? Well, I also get the opportunity to ask Ms. Miller one question so here we go.

Ms Miller, in your never to be forgotten romance novels, do you ever use personal stories?
Yes, I use personal stories in writing, but they’re usually heavily disguised or simply a jumping-off point for working out the plot. For example, my dad told me lots of stories about his youth, and many of them served to inspire story ideas—especially the ones about old-time ranchers and the rodeo circuit. A particular favorite concerned one of his employers, a bachelor farmer whose hay crop was ruined by a sudden hard rain, with some hail mixed in for good measure. This man was outside his cabin when Dad saw him from a wisely-chosen hiding place nearby, stark naked except for work boots and socks, shaking his fist at the heavens and challenging God to “come down and fight, you so-and-so.” Modified, this became the opening scene in my historical romance, “Memory’s Embrace”, in which the hero is arguing with God. In Keith Corbin’s case, though, his anger was tied in with a deep spiritual belief, since he was a minister. Another favorite came from my mother, who was raised in Choteau, Montana. It seems there was an elderly bar-fly who rode his horse to town every day of his life and tied him up in front of the saloon. The old man eventually died, but the horse came to town anyway, for days on end, and stood there patiently waiting. I used that one, too, in “The Man from Stone Creek”. Any writings about story-telling and its effect on my writing would be incomplete without the fabulous tales my honorary grandmother, Florence Wiley, told about her childhood outside of Coffeyville, Kansas. She actually remembered hearing the shots the day the Dalton brothers tried to rob the bank in town. Later, the dead outlaws were strapped to boards and displayed along main street, to show the wages of sin is death. Fortunately, grandma’s parents were forward-thinking people for their time and didn’t take the kids in from the farm to see the grim exhibition, but plenty of others did. On another occasion, a man rode up to the gate and stood talking with Grandma’s pa, who was working in the field. The man slept in the family barn that night, and his name was Jesse James.

I know as a reader I always want to know what is going on in the author's head. I think your answer was innovative and fascinating.

MY THOUGHTS:
Although my reading was put on the back burner due to a 3000 mile change of residency, I have managed to get halfway through the book. I will be posting my full review at a later date but wanted to give everyone a "half way through review".

From the moment I picked up this book, it immediately caught my eye. From the cover, to the blurb to the opening chapter, this book left me wanting more. I always look for the chemistry between characters in the books I read and the chemistry between Joselyn and Slade is electrifying. Slade, who is the Sheriff also has down home values in the form of a teenage stepdaughter. Being from different sides of the track, we witness Slade's vulnerable and doubting side. There is no way Joselyn would turn her affections toward him.

Joselyn on the other hand catches her breath and fights butterflies whenever Slade is around. Trying to right wrongs her stepfather committed, we see a dedicated and giving side to Joselyn. I know I am just beginning to read the climax of the book and simply can't wait. You definitely don't want to miss Big Sky Country which will be followed by his half brother Hutch's story in "Big Sky Montana." I will be back in August with a review of that book.

To buy Big Sky Country, click here.

When We Met Again by Dawne Prochilo

Blurb:
How many of us have wished we could turn back the clock? Go back to one specific time that would change our lives forever and it would be exactly how we wanted it. Brynn Saunders has wished that for over two decades and while she can't change her life, a strange twist of fate is giving her a second chance at her one true love. Best friends Ethan Miller and Brynn have loved each other unconditionally since high school and while their lives were entwined early, they never shared the intimacy they felt for the other. After an abusive marriage for Brynn and a loveless marriage for Ethan, they've reconnected twenty four years later and are acting upon what they never had the chance to do years ago.

Review:
When We Meet Again is a love story that tears at the heartstrings for a love that long ago almost was and could be again .... if these two main characters would let pride be and just give in to their feelings. Right from the beginning Brynn's character could have been me, while Ethan's character was the man I always dreamed of. Ethan's character was one of conviction with a secret burning for Brynn. In his adolescent years, he calls Brynn's boyfriend, Hart, for the abusive bully that he is. Brynn is captivated by a popular boy who seems nothing like Ethan describes and so begins the saga.

My first reaction when I put this book down was WOW! I felt emotionally drained which is one of the best things an author can leave me with. I felt as though I had a vested interest in these characters all the while, I was swept away with the story line. Ms. Prochilo has taken description of abuse scenes to the next level as each and every scene was extremely realistic. Although I have never read anything by this author before, I will definitely be making myself familiar with her work. When We Meet Again is a book that you certainly don't want to miss out on.

Buy When We Meet Again here

A Marshal of Her Own by Linda LaRoque

Blurb:
Despite rumors of 'strange doings? at a cabin in Fredericksburg, investigative reporter Dessa Wade books the cottage from which lawyer Charity Dawson disappeared in 2008. Dessa is intent on solving the mystery. Instead, caught in the swirling mist that surrounds the cabin, she finds herself in 1890, in a shootout between the Faraday Gang and a US Marshal.

Marshal Cole Jeffers doesn't believe Miss Wade is a time traveler. He admits she's innocent of being an outlaw but thinks she knows more about the gang than she's telling. When she's kidnapped by Zeke Faraday, Cole is determined to rescue her. He's longed for a woman of his own, and Dessa Wade just might be the one'if she'll commit to the past.

Review:
From the beginning of this story, we find that Dessa Wade is a strong willed character who is about to find out things aren't quite as they seem. Armed with ambition and a sassy attitude, Dessa finds herself in one very unexpected adventure. Enter the hunky, drop dead gorgeous Marshal Cole Jeffers, Cole cannot believe his eyes when Dessa appears out of nowhere. Instantly attracted to her, Cole finds himself questioning his bachelorhood.

The relationship between Cole and Dessa simply sizzled. The back and forth banter between the two had me giggling at moments and at others, mentally screaming "kiss her, hurry!" Cole was not your ordinary man, he was a man of strength and character, with a lot of humor and pure male hotness thrown in. Dessa was the quirky new woman in town who raised a few eyebrows with her actions. Cole's main concern was trying to help this woman uphold her good reputation. He was a man who had his hands full.

Each time I read a Linda LaRoque book, I am swept away to a world of intrigue where the characters are enchanting and genuine. I have to admit that historical romances have not always been my favorite genre to read but there is something about the way Ms. Laroque presents the story. I never really thought about the expectations of the time period and the concessions one would have to make to live in the 19th century vs. the 21st century.

Ms. LaRoque brings her characters to life with vivid descriptions and effortlessly weaves humor with drama. This is one author who has definitely done her research on life in the 1890's. Any book by Ms. LaRoque is one I automatically add to my to be read list because I KNOW it's going to not only be a fun read but educational as well. Treat yourself to a the luxury you deserve and take a few hours to sit down and read this book. A Marshal of Her Own was a visually creative, touching and uplifting romance. I highly recommend this book.

You can buy A Marshal of Her Own here

Starr Dust by Lauren N. Sharman

Throughout the entire McCassey series one thing has remained a constant. Behind every devastatingly handsome bad boy, there is a woman of strength with the ability to bring that bad boy to his knees with just one look. Let me introduce Brady McCassey. Just as the rest of the McCassey clan, Brady has a reputation for being rough around the edges. Add a drinking problem to that and you have the potential for some dangerous situations. When Brady sets eyes on Starr, the hippy fortune teller, all he can do is stare. Brady finds it hard to introduce himself until a little blackmail from Georgia, his cousin, finds him face to face with the pint size cutie herself. From the moment they meet, the action, attraction and intense feelings of love and conflict will leave you begging for more.

I can't say enough about the plot line in Starr Dust. With bad guys coming at Brady from every direction, the carnage they cause and the riveting action scenes, I found this book to be a fast paced, edge of your seat read that I simply could not put down. The underlying element in each of the McCassey books is family sticks together. And boy can they tear up some stuff together which is another reason Starr Dust is such a gripping read. I'll give you a hint, do NOT miss the barn scene. I held my breath all the way through that scene.

I've said before that Ms. Sharman is one of the most talented writers I know. She knows how to write grit one minute and wit the next while seemingly blending everything together effortlessly. If you are looking for an outstanding romantic suspense book with real characters, look no further. Lauren Sharman's writing is clearly addictive, especially in the McCassey series. Starr Dust is the 3rd book in the McCassey Cousins series and the entire book from start to finish will blow your mind! My advice to you is to buy this book. HURRY! After you are left wanting more, here is a list of the rest of the books in the McCassey series. Each book is as good as the one before. Hands down this is a book that you simply have GOT to read. Be sure to click on the titles below, this will take you to the buy link for each book. You will absolutely fall in love with the McCasseys!

The McCassey Brothers Series:
No Worries
The Devil's Candy
Dusty Rose
The Long Road Home

The McCassey Cousins Series:
When Night Falls
Betrayed
Starr Dust

Interview with Linda LaRoque and Giveaway!

First, let me just say that I am a HUGE fan of Linda LaRoque's work! During this interview with Linda, you'll learn more about her book "A Marshal of Her Own" and of course the wonderful writer behind the fabulous book. So without Delay, let's get started shall we?

Linda LaRoque is a Texas girl, but the first time she got on a horse, it tossed her in the road dislocating her right shoulder. Forty years passed before she got on another, but it was older, slower, and she was wiser. Plus, her students looked on and it was important to save face.

A retired teacher who loves West Texas, its flora and fauna, and its people, Linda’s stories paint pictures of life, love, and learning set against the raw landscape of ranches and rural communities in Texas and the Midwest. She is a member of RWA, her local chapter of HOTRWA, NTRWA and Texas Mountain Trail Writers.

My part of the blog tour centers around Women of Controversy .... Ohhhhh yeah baby! You know you love reading about the controversial women.

Women of Controversy in Waco, Texas

My time travel romance, My Heart Will Find Yours, is set in 1880s Waco, Texas. Located on the Brazos River, in its early history, Waco was known as Six-Shooter Junction. Trail drives herded their cattle across the Brazos in Waco and the cowboys usually spent time in the bawdy houses of the Reservation or Two Street as the red-light district was known. Drinking in the multitude of saloons and card games sometimes led to fights, often involving the use of firearms.

When the suspension bridge opened in 1870, and the railroad arrived in 1871, business in Waco thrived. Trail drives repeatedly lost cattle when herding their livestock across the Brazos. It wasn’t uncommon for a man to be caught in the undertow and drown. Cattle bosses were willing to pay the 50 cents per animal to get their cattle across safely.

In her book, A Spirit So Rare, Patricia Ward Wallace broaches the topic of how women forged a path in the early history of Waco. Her chapter on prostitutes is titled Women of Controversy. Since prostitution plays a minor role in my western time travel romance, I’d like to borrow her title and share some of what I learned.

The first noted record of prostitution in Waco is documented in an 1876 city directory. Matilda Davis of 76 N. Fourth St. is listed as a madam with 10 occupants in her house. The women listed their occupation as actress. Waco had no playhouse at the time. In 1879, the city issued the first license for a bawdy house for an annual fee of $200 and a good behavior bond of $500.

Waco officials legalized prostitution within the Reservation in 1889 making Waco the first town in Texas and the second in the United States to condone a controlled red-light district. Madams paid a yearly fee of $12.50 for each bedroom and $10.00 for each bawd. Prostitutes paid an additional $10.00 license fee and paid the city physician $2.00 twice a month for a medical exam. This guaranteed they didn’t ply their trade outside their designated territory and were disease free. The city prohibited drinking within the area. Fines for violators ranged between $50 and $100. With the large number of prostitutes it’s easy to see the city benefited from trade within the Reservation.

Prostitutes were prohibited from being seen on the streets outside the Reservation yet they were allowed to trade with local businesses. No more than two at a time could travel via a city hack to the stores. Usually tradesmen sent clerks to the curb with merchandise. Some store owners required the prostitutes to stop at the back door.

Life was hard for these working girls. Violence abounded in the bordellos as did drug and alcohol use and abuse. Though licensed, the police had little to do with the establishments. The madams disciplined the women in their houses and maintained order among their clientele. On occasion the police were called when robberies or assaults occurred.

Waco’s most famous madam was Mollie Adams. She had worked in another house but in 1890 opened her own three-room operation. By 1893 she had a seven-room establishment. In 1910 she’d obtained enough wealth to commission a house to be built by the same firm that built the First Baptist Church of Waco and the building now the Dr. Pepper Museum. Her home at 408 N. Second St., had indoor plumbing, electric fixtures, two parlors, a dance hall, and a bell system wired to every room. Her portrait, included here, hung over the fireplace. Though wealthy at this point in her life, she died in an indigent home in 1944. Lorna Lane, the madam in Madison Cooper’s epic novel, Sironia, is supposedly modeled after Mollie Adams.

In 1917, the US Government ordered cities with military bases to shut down red light districts to protect the health of America’s soldiers. Not wanting to lose Camp MacArthur and its 36,000 troops, the city shut down the Reservation in August of 1917. It is rumored some bawdy houses managed to continue business through the 1920s.
References:
Wallace, P. W., A Spirit So Rare, pp. 148-156.
http://wacohistoryproject.org/Places/reservation.htm


Now, let's check out "A Marshal of Her Own" .....

Blurb:
Despite rumors of “strange doings” at a cabin in Fredericksburg, investigative reporter Dessa Wade books the cottage from which lawyer, Charity Dawson, disappeared in 2008. Dessa is intent on solving the mystery. Instead, she is caught in the mystery that surrounds the cabin and finds herself in 1890 in a shootout between the Faraday Gang and a US Marshal.
Marshal Cole Jeffers doesn’t believe Miss Wade is a time traveler. He admits she’s innocent of being an outlaw, but thinks she knows more about the gang than she’s telling. When she’s kidnapped by Zeke Faraday, Cole is determined to rescue her. He’s longed for a woman of his own, and Dessa Wade just might be the one—if she’ll commit to the past.

Sounds good right? Well check out this excerpt!

Dessa stood still and watched as they conversed. Something stank to high heaven about this entire situation. Why were the cops chasing robbers on horseback? It’s not like Fredericksburg was that isolated. She glanced at the captured men. The boy moaned, and she made a step to go over and help him. The Marshal spun, and the expression in his eye froze her in place.
“He needs first aid.”
“He’s fine. The Doc will tend to him when we get to the jail.”
“You could at least call 911 and let them patch him up for you.” She nodded to the man lying so still with his eyes closed. “Your other prisoner doesn’t look so good. He’s going to die on you if you don’t start CPR or get him some help.”
“Lady, no one is going to hear a yell from out here. Never heard of any 911 or CPR.” He propped the hand not holding the shotgun on his hip and threw her a disgusted look. “Are you blind? That man is dead, shot through the heart.”
Her head swam for a moment, and she struggled not to give in to the sensation and faint. She drew in deep gulps of air. “Well...well..., what about the coroner and the meat wagon, not to mention the CSI folks? If you don’t get them to record the scene, how are you going to cover your butt? The authorities might say you shot him in cold blood.”
He looked at her like she’d sprouted an extra head. “I don’t know what the hell you are talking about woman. No one will question my authority. I’m the law in this county. Now, be quiet, or I’m going to gag you.”

So Linda, where can we find A Marshal of Her Own and is it a part of a series?

A Marshal of Her Own will be available now at The Wild Rose Press, Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble.com and other online book stores. It is the sequel to A Law of Her Own available at The Wild Rose Press, Amazon.com, and Barnes and Noble.com and other online book stores. I’m awaiting a release date for A Love of His Own, the third story in the Prairie, Texas series.

Yesssssssss! I am such a series lover! I hear you have some awesome contests going on connected to the release of your new book. We can't wait to hear the details, so please ... do tell!

My release contest for A Marshal of Her Own began November 9th. I’ll be giving away this vintage rhinestone typewriter pin. To enter the drawing, go to my website or blog and sign up for my newsletter. Don’t forget to verify your email address. If you already receive it, email me at linda@lindalaroque.com with A Marshal of Her Own contest in the subject line. Contest ends December 15, 2011.

Leave me a comment or ask a question today and you’ll be entered into a drawing for an ecopy of A Law of Her Own.

Also, today’s blog post is part of 2 blog tours—this one for A Marshal of Her Own and starting December 4th, one for Born in Ice. Follow along each day and leave a comment to be entered into the grand prize drawing and learn about my Born in Ice contest.
The Blog Tour schedule will be posted on my blog and website. It will last 25 days and the Grand Prize is a Kindle. Leave a comment each day and your name will be entered 25 times. Pretty good odds, huh?
Thank you for having me on your blog today, Val!

Tomorrow, Dec. 2, I’ll be on Jill James’ blog talking about Courting in the Old West.
Happy Reading and Writing!
Linda LaRoque
Writing Romance With a Twist in Time

Linda's Website
Linda's Blog
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Linda, I want to thank you so much for stopping by my blog. I love your writing and think you are one of the most talented writers I know. So people, what are you waiting for? Leave a question or comment for Linda for a chance to win your very own copy of A Marshal of Her Own! And don't forget to stop by the other blogs on the tour! Good luck to everyone!

Coming in January ... Rainshadow Road by Lisa Kleypas

You guys know I have your back when I find all the "can't miss" books right? Well get ready because Rainshadow Road is coming in January! I know, I can't wait either! Squeeee! OK, OK, calm down for a minute and listen. I've got the blurb! Squeeeee all over again!


Lucy Marinn is a glass artist living in mystical, beautiful, Friday Harbor, Washington. She is stunned and blindsided by the most bitter kind of betrayal: her fiancé Kevin has left her. His new lover is Lucy’s own sister. Lucy's bitterness over being dumped is multiplied by the fact that she has constantly made the wrong choices in her romantic life. Facing the severe disapproval of Lucy's parents, Kevin asks his friend Sam Nolan, a local vineyard owner on San Juan Island, to "romance" Lucy and hopefully loosen her up and get her over her anger. Complications ensue when Sam and Lucy begin to fall in love, Kevin has second thoughts, and Lucy discovers that the new relationship in her life began under false pretenses. Questions about love, loyalty, old patterns, mistakes, and new beginnings are explored as Lucy learns that some things in life—even after being broken—can be made into something new and beautiful.


There's MORE! I know, besides holding the book in my hand, how could I possibly have more for you right? Well, I do! Click on this sentence to be taken to an excerpt from the book. I know you guys are going to fall in love with this talented writer as well as her new book. Oh hey, while you're there, subscribe to her newsletter so you can get all the latest and greatest from Lisa!

I am one of "Lisa's Divas" - a group of select fans who share info & content related to Lisa's novels and get sneak peeks & swag in return.

Christmas in High Heels by Gemma Halliday

Blurb:
Fashion designer turned amateur sleuth Maddie Springer can’t wait to spend the holidays with her boyfriend, LAPD Detective Jack Ramirez. It’s their first Christmas together, and Maddie wants it to be perfect. But between her zany family and wacky friends, Maddie’s having a hard time finding alone time with her man. But come Christmas morning, this is one holiday she’ll be sure remember… naughty or nice!

Review:
I always love me some Maddie and Jack! I just have to chuckle at this short story. Maddie and Jack have always been my favorite characters and we get a short glimpse into their rather odd Christmas Eve. One unique and colorful character after another interrupts their romantic night alone and poor Maddie and Jack, they just want a night alone. Is that too much to ask for? Well of course it is if Gemma Halliday is writing you as a character in another laugh out loud story. I had to laugh at Mrs. Rosenblatt, she has to be my favorite secondary character of all. If you're looking for zany, mischievous, quirky and fun, look no further. This short story is all that and more,

I've always been a fan of Gemma Halliday's since the first book I read from her. Yes, this is a quick and fun read but if you read some of the other books that involve Maddie and Jack, it makes Christmas in High Heels that much more enjoyable. I highly recommend you buy this book and while you're at it buy one of the previous books with Maddie and Jack and you'll see I'm telling the truth. It makes this book just that much more fun. Great job Ms. Halliday. I know when I pick up one of your books it's going to be a laugh until I cry. It's always a fun time!

Dana Marton

I just wanted to give everyone a heads up on a new book that is being released this month. I have not read it yet, so I can't post a review but you should hear the buzz around this book! Here is a glimpse into this incredible romantic suspense book. Warrior Agent by Dana Marton.

Blurb
Troy Hill has been tirelessly working for months to bring down a corrupt congressman. When the man’s goons capture him and lock him up, he knows they can’t afford to leave him alive. His only chance at escape is the congressman’s new security guard, Claire Montgomery. He expects he’ll have to either manipulate her into setting him free or kill her. He doesn’t expect to fall in love with her.

You can buy Warrior Agent here

As if that weren't enough, this story is part of a SERIES! Yes people, Warrior Agent is part of the Agents Under Fire series. I'm a total series hog! I devour them and then hurry up and wait on the next book. Here is a list of the books in the series. Just click on the title and it will take you to the buy link.

Guardian Agent

Avenging Agent

Warrior Agent










To read more about Dana Marton's books, click here to go to her Author Website

Secrets and Lies by Jamie Hill

Blurb:
Natalie Jameson has a handsome husband, three wonderful children, and one very big secret. She's managed to keep it under wraps for over twenty years, but recent events lead her to decide she has no choice but to reveal the terrible truth. 

Alex Jameson has had one goal in life since the minute he met Natalie on their college campus. Do whatever it takes to make this woman happy. When circumstances threaten to unravel the web of secrets and lies they've built around themselves, will their love be strong enough to survive?

Review:
Natalie and Alex are the couple everyone strives to be. They adore each other and their children. Everything is perfect in their lives until one day when everything is changed. It makes me wonder how I would have reacted. The way that Natalie felt about having children made me laugh, I've been her. Poor Alex, I felt for him and had to laugh each time Natalie said "Honey, I want to have another baby." Through their fights, laughs, and struggles with their own feelings, I found Natalie and Alex to be a perfectly imperfect couple. The daughter Gillian had me balling my fists in frustration from time to time and simply because I have daughters that would react as she did. I wish I could say more about this book but it would give away the story, so on that front, I'm zipping the lip.

Seldom does a short book deserve the highest rating from me, but Secrets and Lies moved me more than I expected. Since it is a short read, the excitement is in finding out what actually happened twenty years ago. I must say that this was a very touching story that at times made me want to cry. Yes, this is a very heavy topic but Ms. Hill has done an outstanding job of weaving her way through the story in a manner that does not bring the reader down. The characters throughout the story were so realistic and the topic is something that I am sure many people have faced in real life. Ms. Hill nailed the relationship between a husband and a wife. Yes, they fight but how they deal with their arguments is so like a normal couple that I couldn't help but to draw from my past experiences. Relatable, memorable characters along with an amazing plot line make Secrets and Lies a story that you simply cannot miss.

Buy Secrets and Lies here

My Life As A Dog by Mike and Cynthia Arsuaga

Blurb:
Drake Martin is a unique shape shifter. Instead of transforming into a ferocious animal, he morphs into an eight pound Yorkshire terrier. Six year old Kady Hartley rescued him from an animal shelter. As "Precious" he was her "bestest friend" for twelve years, leaving when she started college. Ten years later they cross paths.
He’s a PI; she’s FBI. Continuing to keep his abilities secret from her, he follows Kady as she pursues a case. Accompany them on an odyssey to New Orleans investigating human traffickers and watch the fur fly. To protect Kady, Drake remains in the shadows. For her sake he puts aside his loner life and accepts protection and assistance of the local shifter pack under its leader, the Sufi. The pack and Drake soon discover they have a common cause, leading to a bloody confrontation with the Russian human traffickers.

During the adventure, will Drake and Kady rekindle their loving friendship or will it become much more?

Review:
After reading the very last sentence on the very last page, my first reaction is WOW. I say this for a couple of reasons. First, I am not ordinarily a shifter reader and second, how in the world can a shifter who turns into a Yorkie be sexy? This is where the "wow" factor comes in. Never have I read a book that has thrown my preconceptions out the window as this book has. Very early in the book, the first shifter scene actually, it is evident how being able to turn into a cute little dog works to Drake's advantage. His reaction to what he turns into was priceless and made me laugh out loud. A very important part of the book is the beginning. Although the pacing does seem a little slow at first, this is where the foundation lies for the rest of the book. No worries though, when the book does pick up, it is a very fast paced action packed book.

Drake Martin and Kady Harley have a relationship like none I've ever read before. It was fascinating how Mike and Cynthia Arsuaga have developed these two characters in such a tender way. They are able to bond in a way a normal couple never can. The loyalty that Drake shows toward Kady touched my heart and made me just want to say awwwww. As the book develops, so does the relationship between these two exciting and funny characters. The heat level between Drake and Kady soars and I'm more than surprised that my book didn't spontaneously combust! I am a die hard romantic suspense reader who loves humor sprinkled throughout the pages of whatever it may be that I am reading. My Life as a Dog had me laughing out loud at moments and holding my breath at others. This is, hands down, a book that captured my attention and kept it there.

I would like to tell Mike and Cynthia Arsuaga BRAVO! It is not very often that I can say a book changed my opinion about an entire genre. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who is interested in paranormal romance. Please keep in mind that some scenes are very erotic and may offend those who aren't interested in erotic. Otherwise, I suggest you run out and buy this book. Read at your leisure because you don't want to miss one thing. I enjoyed my time spent reading My Life as a Dog and look forward to reading more from these authors.

Buy My Life As A Dog here

Charity by Anne Holly

Blurb:
Charity Miller has spent her whole life in an urban island surrounded by the wilds of Montana where she’s never ventured too far from her plans. But when she heads into the Big Snowy Mountains to square a land deal one chilly November, her normally-professional self fades away. Maybe it’s the mountain air or finally quitting her diet. Or maybe it’s “real-live-cowboy” Joshua Rollings and his many attractions that has her off balance.

Whatever it is, this Thanksgiving could give her a reason to be thankful for the rest of her life.

Review:
What do you get when you combine a tall cowboy with to die for good looks and one very independent real estate agent? Hotness that's what! I instantly fell in love with Charity's character. She was the city girl with a no nonsense attitude. Joshua was the type of character I love to read about. The tall brooding cowboy with a sentimental streak won me over the moment I was introduced to him. The pull between Joshua and Charity was intense with sparks flying between the two the entire story. If I set aside the fact that these two characters lit the pages on fire, one element that impressed me was the medical angle. I don't want to give away that part of the story but by addressing the medical issues surrounding Joshua's mother, another layer was subtly added to the story.

What a perfect way to get in the holiday spirit. With compelling characters and steamy love scenes, I found Charity to be a page turner. I have never read anything by Ms. Holly in the past and thoroughly enjoyed this quick read. I would have loved to see Charity in full novel length. If you are looking for a fun filled novella to read on your lunch break, I highly recommend buying this book. It will definitely put you in the Thanksgiving mood! This author has now become an automatic add to my "to be read" list.

Buy Charity here

Twist of Fate by Sandy James

Blurb:
What happens when happily ever after meets reality? Susan and James Williams are drifting apart. After a devastating loss, their lives are thrown into further turmoil when a mysterious stone at a museum hurtles them back to the Old West. Their supernatural experience only intensifies the chasm between them, and when James realizes where they are, in a moment of anger, he pronounces that they were never married.  

They go their separate ways, unsure of what this new world holds in store. James settles into a job as bartender. Befriended by local rancher Daniel Miller, Susan soon develops feelings for him. She's torn between starting a new life in a new time and healing her marriage and returning to the twenty-first century.  

Will the miraculous journey back in time help Susan and James reconcile, or has destiny set new roads for them to travel that lead them away from each other?  


Review:
Little House on the Prairie, watch out, you have competition!  Nelly has nothing on Caroline (from Twist of Fate) and Daniel is the new Charles.  Let's start with James and Susan shall we?  It's obvious these two are head over heels in love with each other but over time have forgotten the qualities that once took each other's breath away.  The qualities that once endeared them to one another are now viewed as annoyances. The sensual tension between these two was electrifying.  Abigail is the good daughter who wants the best for her father Daniel.  Daniel, having lost his wife a couple of years earlier, had lost the spark in his life.  That is, until he meets Susan.  There are other quirky characters in the book but I have to say my favorite was Caroline.  She was full of manipulation and games yet such a child, a fun character indeed. 

On to the plot line.  I love this particular story for several reasons.  Not only is this not like the other books in the Damaged Heroes series because of the time travel aspect, it is also not your typical romance book.  Normally, it's the beautiful young heroine and the devastatingly handsome hero.  In Twist of Fate, it's about real people.  People who have self-esteem issues, ego issues and control issues.  It's about making a decision that will affect the future of many people, not just those involved.  It makes you think about the paradox.  If you do something in an era gone by, would it affect the future?  Who will Susan pick, the man who is everything she could possibly want?  Or will she choose the one man that she has always loved that may not love her back? 

Twist of Fate is certainly a book that will stay with me for a long time.  In fact, when I am driving and every song I hear reminds me of the book, I know that book is going to be a winner.  I wish each book had a soundtrack to it, because I heard some perfect songs for it on the way home.  It must be said that I have loved every one of the Damaged Heroes books and all for different reasons.  Each book can be read as a stand alone book.  The one constant is the talent with which Ms. James writes.  In my opinion, a talented writer is one who can evoke almost every emotion you possess and still leave you wanting more.  Ms. James is most certainly one of the top authors on my list to highly recommend to others.  To Ms. James, I would like to say "Job well done and I can't wait to read more."  To the potential buyer of this book, BUY IT!  You will not be disappointed.  If you love Twist of Fate, here is a list of the other books in the series.  They are all books you just GOTTA read! 

Buy Twist of Fate here

Murphy's Law (Damaged Heroes Book 1) 

Free Falling (Damaged Heroes Book 2) 

All the right Reasons (Damaged Heroes Book 3) 

Faith of the Heart (Damaged Heroes Book 4) 

T-R-O-U-B-L-E by Sable Hunter

Blurb:
Trouble comes calling on Kyler Landon. He falls hard and fast for his beautiful, mysterious neighbor after she saves him from a rattlesnake attack. The sexual tension mounts between them with each sensual encounter, but he soon reaizes that Cooper has been hurt and is leery of men. So he sets out to teach her that a real man can be gentle, loving, and sexy as hell.

Trouble seems to follow Cooper, and Ky makes it his mission to protect her from her past. Kyler would move heaven and earth to keep her in his bed and in his life.

Review:
Oh my goodness go check out that yummy cover. Not to worry, I'll wait here ......
You're back? Oh good, now let's talk about this gem of a book. Yes, like you, I had a hard time getting past the cover of this book but when I did, I laughed so hard sometimes I thought I might cry. Kyler Landon is one of those types of dream characters you look for in a hero. He is gorgeous, caring, funny, down to earth and protective of his lady. Oh and did I mention that he loves animals and volunteers his time for good causes? *dreamy sigh* Cooper is a woman that is about to turn into the woman she was always meant to be. She's gorgeous, straightforward and just a sweetheart. She has a lot of obstacles to overcome and a lot to learn about herself. The first time she meets Ky, is action packed and a perfect start to the story. Cooper can handle her own and that's why I took an instant liking to this exciting character.

Now for the plot. I can't say enough about the plot. It took my breath away. There are moments when Ky is faced with the fact that he might lose Cooper and Ms. Hunter writes with such flair that I felt his desperation and it broke my heart. Another was toward the end (I can't give away spoilers) when Cooper was confronted with something from her past. I could feel the terror she felt. I love it when an author can actually draw me so far into a book that I forget my surroundings. T-R-O-U-B-L-E was one of those books for me.

It has to be noted that Ms. Hunter has taken the subject of domestic abuse and simply nailed it. The feelings that a battered wife might feel is exactly what was portrayed in Cooper's character. How a future partner should handle a problem such as this was just the way that Ky did. This is an important subject that needs to be graphic in order for the reader to get into the character's mind and understand the urgency of the situation. OUTSTANDING job Ms. Hunter.

So all in all, Trouble was one sensational read filled with action, suspense and humor. I simply can't say enough about this book. At the end of the book, it states that T-R-O-U-B-L-E is the first book in the series. YES, can you believe this is a series book? It just keeps getting better. After you read Ky's story, I know you'll want to read his twin brother Ty's story in My Aliyah which comes out in January 2012. They are all part of the Texas Heat Series. Ty's story is not out yet but you can bet that I'll be first in line when it releases. So hurry and buy T-R-O-U-B-L-E, you're gonna love it!


Buy T-R-O-U-B-L-E here