Catch Me if You Can: Edition 2 by Miss Mae *Special Offer*

Blurb:

Are all rules broken when it comes to playing a game?  Washed ashore a South Carolina beach, Lois Steinberg learns her shelter, an old plantation house, was scheduled to host a 'Catch Me' game convention.  When the cook is the first one found murdered, the game environment instantly morphs into a terrifying evening reminiscent of 'And Then There Were None'.

I am blessed to be able to work with many different types of authors.  The literary world is filled with writers who give back to the community in various ways.  A good friend of mine, Miss Mae is also giving back to an organization that is close to her heart.  Miss Mae has dedicated her book Catch Me If You Can: Edition 2 to Angie Micik, the director of the Murray County Humane Society.  Miss Mae is also contributing 50% of her book sales for Catch Me if You Can: Edition 2 to the Murray County Humane Society.  This special is good for ONE WEEK ONLY!  Now, here is where YOU can help.  Please follow these steps so we can ensure that all proceeds go to where they are intended.

1. Go to http://smile.amazon.com
2. Select Murray County Humane Society as your charity
3. Search for Catch Me if You Can: Edition 2 by Miss Mae
4. Order the book and then comment either on this blog post or on Miss Mae's Facebook Author page  that you purchased the book.  This way, they can keep track of how much goes to the Murray County Humane Society.

Here is a list of Miss Mae's other works, just click on the title.

A Mystery/Suspense Collection:  Sweet

It's Elementary, My Dear Winifred

Miss Penelope's Letters

Said the Spider To The Fly

See No Evil, My Pretty Lady

Through A Glass Darkly

When The Bough Breaks

Miss Mae is an award winning, best selling author.  "Said the Spider to the Fly" has consistently rated outstanding reviews and has won the esteemed title of Best Book of the Week for The Long and the Short of It Reviews and from The Romance Studio.  It can be purchased both in digital format and in print. "When the Bough Breaks", a young adult coming-of-age story won the 2009 P&E Readers' Poll in the YA category.

Her first book, "See No Evil, My Pretty Lady" had previously only been available as a digital book.  Now it can be purchased in print from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and CreateSpace.  

The highly acclaimed "It's Elementary, My Dear Winifred" won a 2009 Top Ten Read at MyShelf.com.  Out of print for a couple of years, this fast-paced, action filled 'who-dun-it' is now back with a brand new cover!  It's in print at Amazon and in digital format at a various online estores.  

Miss Mae also enjoys writing humor and non-fiction articles.  Some of her publications can be found in the Front Porch Magazine, Good Old Days, and WritersWeekly.

Her alter ego, M.M., penned a light-hearted, tongue-in-cheek fantasy tale titled "Ahoy Gum Drop!" where her bumbling, fumbling reporter, I.B. Nosey, is introduced to the world wide web of cyberspace.  Check him out at Feeling Nosey?  http://feelingnosey.blogspot.com

You can follow Miss Mae through social media at the places listed below:

Miss Mae's Facebook page

Miss Mae's Twitter Page

Miss Mae's Website

So how about it people?  Let's support Miss Mae and The Murray County Humane Society.  I've already ordered my copy, now hurry and order yours. :)

Q&A with "Falling for Max" author Shannon Stacey

1. Can you tell us a little bit about your new release, Falling for Max?

Falling for Max is the ninth book in my Kowalski family series, and it’s about Max Crawford and Tori Burns. Max is single, has great couches, a big TV, and loves to have people over to watch sports, which is how he’s eased into friendships in Whitford. He’s also the resident man of mystery, since nobody knows what he does for a living down in his basement. Tori moved to Whitford to escape her parents’ acrimonious divorce and works part time at the diner to offset the lack of a social life working from home can cause. When she finds out awkward, shy Max is trying to find himself a wife, Tori decides to help him because she genuinely likes him. But she might found out too late that she likes him more than she thought.

2. What is it about the Kowalski family that people love?

I think they feel really authentic, as if you could run into them at the local diner or at a gas station. They’re blue-collar folks who work hard and play hard. They love their children, respect their parents or parent-figures, and love to laugh. I think they’re people we’d want to hang out with in real life.

3. Why did you decide to bring together your two recurring characters, Tori and Max?

I knew I’d end up writing Max’s story as soon as he was introduced in All He Ever Dreamed, the sixth book in the series. It was something of a surprise when I realized Tori, who was meant to have a walk-on role, was the woman for him. She’s very curious and frank, and isn’t made uncomfortable by Max’s awkward attempts at conversation. She likes him and decides to help him find a date which, of course, goes sideways on her.

4. Is the town of Whitford modeled after the New England town you live in?

Whitford is quite a bit smaller than the town I live in, and my town only has about 3,500 residents. It’s actually very, very loosely modeled after a town in central Maine I’ve visited, but I’m reluctant to say which because people familiar with it would shake their heads. It’s more about the feel of the place and having a point on the map to use when determining how long it takes to drive to the hospital or airport than modeled after the location. 

5. Why do you think people love small town romance novels so much?

One of the things I personally love about small town romance novels is the cast of characters. As a reader, I get to know everybody in the community and become invested in, not only the hero and heroine, but the people around them. Returning to a small town series is like returning to a town I’ve enjoyed visiting or reconnecting with friends.

6. When did you realize that you wanted to be a writer?

I barely remember a time when I didn’t want to be a writer. I think it was a Little House on the Prairie book that caused me to make a connection with an author’s name when I was maybe six or seven and I was told that, yes; people get paid to write books. From that moment on, an author was all I ever wanted to be. It wasn’t until I discovered romance novels as a young teen that I knew what I wanted to write. (I write horrible poetry and horror. Trust me.)

7. What else do you like to do when you are not writing?

I love being at campground with my family. Besides hitting the ATV trails, there’s something refreshing about sitting around a campfire with friends, or playing cards in the gazebo. We generally make the drive up to the northern part of New Hampshire every other weekend from May to October, but this summer we spent ten days there and it was wonderful. Other than that, I watch too much television, with a special weakness for reality shows.

8. How would you describe your voice and writing style?

I really wish I could remember who said it, but I’ve heard that authorial voices are like accents—other people can hear them, but you can’t. I think my voice and writing style probably reflect my general view of life, which I share with my family: humor, love for family, respect. I’ve had readers tell me I do a good job of balancing lightheartedness and emotion for a fun, romantic read.

9. What’s the best part of Max’s quirky personality?

The heroes of the Kowalski series have all been fairly confident, sure-of-themselves men who could bring the charm when it suited them. They “walked tall” in their worlds, so to speak. Max has never found it easy to interact socially, which leads to awkwardness and has made forming relationships in the small town of Whitford somewhat difficult. Showing what a great guy he is through Tori’s eyes was fun to explore.

10.  Tell us a little about your social media presence. How is it different now connecting with readers as opposed to before social media?

When I contracted my first book in 2005, blogging was the “it” social media platform. Writers were networked by, and readers could find us by, blog rolls and group blogs. Now conversations are much more immediate and casual. Blog posts tend to limit the conversation to that post’s topic, while Facebook and especially Twitter lead to more organic conversations that don’t smack of promotion. Writing’s a solitary endeavor and having “water cooler” discussions is a sanity-saver!

11. What’s your main source of inspiration for developing the Kowalski series?

The Kowalski series began when I started writing a romance just for my own pleasure, filled with things I loved, like camping and four-wheeling and s’mores and bug spray jokes. Eventually I realized that if I enjoyed it, so might others, and it became Exclusively Yours, the first book in the series. 

12. Which of the characters in this novel do you feel the most drawn to?

While I enjoyed writing Tori, I’d have to say I’m most drawn to Max. He’s somewhat inspired by several people who are very important to me and his desire to find a woman who’d love him just the way he was really struck a chord. I love all of my book couples, but writing his happily ever after was particularly sweet for me.

13. Do you have any say in what goes on your book covers?

I’ve been incredibly lucky with the Carina Press art department’s ability to take a form on which I’ve noted pertinent, but random, details about the books and return with such wonderful covers. If there’s something I feel strongly about, they do their best to make it happen but, overall, I think Carina Press and Harlequin are brilliant at marketing—including book covers—so I trust in their vision for the series.

14. Where is your favorite place to brainstorm and write?

I have an office in my home, complete with normal office things like a desk, filing cabinets and comfortable chair for writing. I even go in there once in a while—usually if I need to print something—but I do almost all of my writing on the couch in the living room with my dogs snuggled up next to me. A lot of my brainstorming is done while driving, either my vehicle or while out on the ATV trails. And in the shower, of course. Writers trying to work out plot issues tend to be very, very clean.

15. What is the best writing advice you’ve ever received?

“Quit worrying/whining/obsessing and get back to work.” — Jaci Burton, whenever I’m worrying/whining/obsessing over things I can’t control.

16. What are you working on next?

I have a holiday novella, “Her Holiday Man”, releasing in November, and my editor and I are tossing around some ideas for a new series. I hope to have good news to announce very soon!

New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author Shannon Stacey lives with her husband and two sons in New England, where her two favorite activities are writing stories of happily ever after and riding her four-wheeler.  From May to November, the Stacey family spends their weekends on their ATV's, making loads of muddy laundry to keep Shannon busy when she's not at her computer.  She prefers writing to laundry, however, and considers herself lucky she got to be an author when she grew up.

You can contact Shannon through her website, where she maintains an almost daily blog, or visit her on Twitter, her Facebook page, or email her at shannon@shannonstacey.com

In the Spirit of Love by Debbie A. McClure

Blurb:

A ghost story is just a story-until it happens to you.

While on vacation in England with her best friend, Claire Jacobs' life is changed forever. From the beginning, Kent Estate evokes a sense of coming home. When she takes a guided tour of the reputedly haunted manor, it reveals a story of love and murder that resonates deep within her heart. Of course, sensible Claire doesn't believe in spirits, but the all too handsome resident ghost has other plans. Despite her better judgment, Claire finds herself deeply attracted to the spectre, but there can be no future in loving a ghost–can there?

Things are not always what they appear to be.

Wrongly accused of a murder he didn't commit, Lord Richard Abbotsford is bound to Kent Estate. It's been a long one hundred and fifty years. Then he sees her. His beloved Lady Olivia Kent has returned to him. Having become increasingly disillusioned and bitter, the return of Olivia gives him new hope for release from his eternal prison. But Olivia is different; she doesn't recognize him at all. He knows she has returned to Kent Estate for a reason, and he is determined to remind her of their shared past. To do so, he must first change her mind about ghosts–and himself.

Review:

First let me just say, I don't know how I got my hands on this book.  I got no email to say "please review this".  There was no email to say "hey, awesome, you won this book!".  Nevertheless, I am grateful that this book came to me for whatever reason it did.  After reading the blurb, I thought it sounded like an interesting read.  When I started to bond with the characters and plot line, which didn't take long at all, it was a WOW moment.  I could not put this book down and for so many reasons.  

I have English lineage myself and I absolutely love hearing anyone speak in an English accent.  In the Spirit of Love was written in such a way that when Richard spoke, I felt as though I was in England visiting the Kent estate myself along with Claire and her friend Holly.  The description of the Kent estate was impeccable.  It felt like a very welcoming place to be.  The contact Claire had with Richard in the beginning was comical and heartwarming at the same time.  

In the Sprit of Love is a full bodied novel that held emotional, warm, stressful and humorous moments that helped the story flow seamlessly.  It is not very easy to give physical attributes to a ghost such as being able to touch, communicate, etc. but Ms. McClure weaves a magical tale that combines the past and present in such a way that it is one hundred percent believable.  I am trying to write in in broad terms as to not give away very many clues because this simply is a story that you must read for yourself.  This book  was a highly suspenseful read that was well written, highly entertaining and will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Yes, this book does end kind of abruptly but in a cliffhanger type of way.  A lot is revealed in the last couple of chapters that let you know there is going to be a sequel. And I'm so looking forward to the sequel. Debbie A. McClure is a new author to me and if her first novel is this good, I can't wait to see her work to come.  In the Spirit of Love is a must read!

You can buy In the Spirit of Love here

Look for In the Spirit of Forgiveness available now.  You can buy In the Spirit of Forgiveness here

Reckless Bounty by Lauren N. Sharman

(Available July 1, 2014)

Blurb:
For thirteen years, bounty hunter Kage Garmin has made it a point to avoid female fugitives.  He wasn't going after this one, either; but couldn't resist taking a look at the girl worth a million dollars. 
She smiled at him, and he fell in love.

Kage knew from then on, she would be his.  
He also knew who was after her and why.  In order to save her, he has to convince her to go the one place she’s trying to avoid.
Hiding in plain sight served Journey well…until a handsome bounty hunter shows up with a ‘feeling’ she’s in danger.  As someone who doesn’t trust easily, she’s surprised to find herself believing in him.

Finally convinced she deserves freedom and happiness, she’s anxious to confront those who stole it from her.
In a dangerous race across the country, Kage is determined to protect Journey as he fights to stay one step ahead of the enemy.

Review:
Being a book reviewer, you occasionally find a gem of a book that blows your mind and takes your breath away. When you find a book you absolutely connect with, think about long after it's over and wonder what is going to happen next, you want to tell anyone reading your review just why you liked it so much. At the same time, you don't want to tip the reader off to any bombshells or plot twists the author may have in store. That being said, there is so much I want to you about Reckless Bounty but simply can't.

I fell in love with Kage's character immediately. Yes, he's an edgy bounty hunter who doesn't exactly follow the law but at the same time, he's just a big softy. Knowing that he wasn't after the million dollar bounty that came along with the capture of a certain young lady, he just had to see what kind of woman was worth a million dollar bounty. From the moment he saw Journey, he knew she was different and she captured a piece of his heart each time he interacted with her. Here is this big rugged bad ass bounty hunter who has trouble opening his mouth when Journey asks him a question. This was the first trait of his I fell in love with.

Journey, love the name by the way, has no problem being independent. After all, she's been looking for herself for the last three years. When she sees Kage, she knows something is up, but she doesn't feel threatened by him but rather attracted to him. Journey is used to being hit on by men but doesn't realize just how beautiful she truly is. She's smart, spunky and fierce but has that soft side to her as well, a compassionate side. She's very concerned about those around her.

When Kage and Journey finally get past their initial questioning of each other, there is an undeniable chemistry. The air sizzles as they face the obstacles thrown in their way and they come to be dependent on each other, they have to be.

Lauren Sharman has long been a favorite author of mine. Ever since the McCassey series, I've been able to relate to each and every character she has ever written. Reckless Bounty is one of my favorite books by Ms. Sharman yet. There are so many omg moments that will have your jaw dropping. It's intense, funny and oh so sexy. With a phenomenal writing style and many, many plot twists, Reckless Bounty is not a book you want to pass up. Kage's story, Reckless Bounty is a MUST read. You won't be able to put it down, it's an exciting and compelling read. Let's just say that I'm looking so forward to the next book in the series. It's based on yet another utterly yummy hero.

Look for Reckless Bounty to be released on July 1, 2014 and Bad Intentions to be released on November 1, 2014.

Right of Passage by Lauren N. Sharman

Blurb:
The women in Jay McCassey’s life joke that he was born with an ‘S’ on his chest. Strong and always in control, he guards those he loves with unshakable strength.

A shy, quiet farm girl, Sadie lost her heart to Jay when she was ten years old. Without the confidence to express her feelings, she resigns herself to loving the wildly popular member of the notorious McCassey family from afar.

Although one night’s events link them together forever, it isn’t until Sadie’s desperate and alone—and in trouble—that she gathers enough courage to go to Jay with the truth…a truth he initially refuses to accept.

Jay’s prepared to protect Sadie any way he can, but she knows he’s in danger, too. When her attempt to save him before he can save her backfires, the risk he takes to rescue her could end their story before it has a chance to begin.

Review:
As I sit here thinking about all of the fantastic words that describe this particular book, I am left with a gaping hole in my heart. Right of Passage is the final book in the McCassey series. I have invested many an hour reading and rereading the personal stories of these charismatic men and the exceptional ladies who stole their hearts. I have never felt such a strong connection to a series as I do the McCassey's. I believe my favorite of them all would have to be Right of Passage, which is Jay's story.

Jay has always been the little kid who had to grow up fast. Now in his 20's and extremely drool worthy, it's time for Jay to have a leading lady of his own. Enter Sadie, the shy girl who has been in love with Jay from the time she was ten years old. From the moment they meet in this story, they develop a strong and moving bond. With miscommunications and half truths scattered throughout the story, it's time for Sadie to tell the truth, the whole truth, in order for Jay to be able to help protect her.

As with all of the McCassey books, Jay and Sadie's story is explosive, literally, and kept me sitting on the edge of my seat. Ms. Sharman pays excellent attention to detail and weaves realistic, believable characters with intense drama. Right of Passage delves heavily into adventurous family relationships which is what made this entire series work so well. Imperfect characters who feel horror, helplessness and anger are what bring so much edge to Right of Passage. I have to hand it to Ms. Sharman for yet another job well done. I still can't believe I will no longer be able to read about future McCasseys.

Here are a list of the McCassey books in order. Click on the name of the book to be redirected to the buy link:

Book 1. No Worries
Book 2. Devils Candy
Book 3. Dusty Rose
Book 4. The Long Road Home
Books 1-3 in a trilogy book:

The McCassey Cousins Series:

Book 1: When Night Falls
Book 2: Betrayed
Book 3: Starr Dust
Book 4: Right of Passage

The Christmas Bride by Sylvia McDaniel

Blurb:
In the historical western town of Fort Worth, Texas, matchmaking mother, Eugenia Burnett, has achieved her goals. Her three sons are happily married, and she has three grandchildren, with the fourth on the way. But she hasn’t given up her matchmaking ways. Now she’s introducing lonely widows and widowers. Until one widower, rancher Wyatt Jones, lets her know he’s only interested in one woman, her. Sworn never to remarry, Eugenia doesn’t want a husband. But Wyatt wants Eugenia and he’s one determined cowboy. Come celebrate a western Christmas with the Burnett family and watch Mama Burnett meet her match.

Review:
Eugenia is a strong confident woman who knows what she wants, and what she doesn't want. The matriarch of the Burnett sons, Eugenia has made it her business to find partners for her three sons. Now that the tables have turned and her daughters-in-law are matchmaking Eugenia with Wyatt, Eugenia wants nothing to do with love. Especially when it includes Wyatt. Eugenia's character was so comical. Getting every single available woman to ply Wyatt with more casseroles than he knows what to do with, is enough to drive him crazy. There is only one way to take care of Eugenia and that is to take matters into his own hands. When it comes to Wyatt and Eugenia, I find myself grinning at the repartee. What a sweet and touching love story.

The Christmas Bride is a delightful and dazzling read written by a very talented author. I have never read any of Ms. McDaniel's books. However, after reading the story description, I found myself anxious to snuggle up to my first Sylvia McDaniel romance. The romance between Eugenia and Wyatt, did not disappoint and even had some unexpected turns that turned out to be quite steamy. After reading their touching love story, I can't wait to read the rest of the books in the series. If you are looking for an intriguing story line laced with humor and enchanting characters, look no further than The Christmas Bride by Sylvia McDaniel.

Here are books one through four in order. Just click on the title and you will be led to Amazon where you can check the book out for yourself. I know I have found a new favorite author and I'm sure you will too.

Book 1: The Rancher Takes a Bride

Book 2: The Outlaw Takes a Bride

Book 3: The Marshal Takes a Bride

Book 4: The Christmas Bride

Boxed Set: The Burnett Brides Boxed Set (books 1 through 3)

Moragh, Holly's Ghost by Maggie Tideswell

Blurb:
A marriage of convenience, helpful fey friends, hidden agendas, a custody battle that cannot be won and a haunting - could love blossom?

Set in the beautiful wine lands of the southern Cape in South Africa, strange things start happening from the moment Holly accepted Joshua's offer of marriage.

Review:
Moragh, Holly's Ghost is a book unlike I have ever read. Built on multiple layers, this was one book that was hard to predict the ending. I didn't know until I was finally upon it, how the different layers tied together. This story is told from multiple character's perspectives which makes it a thrilling and suspenseful mystery with all of the elements that make a book a success; love, sex, mystery, intrigue, paranormal hauntings and murder. Moragh, Holly's Ghost was a hard to put down book that was simply addicting. A must have for any reader of suspense or the paranormal.

I love books by Maggie Tideswell because they are based in South Africa, the country in which I was born. I can relate to the breathtaking scenery and while reading the book, there are certain phrases that are familiar to me. Ms. Tideswell is a newly favorite author of mine and I feel as though I walk away a better person for having read the work of such a talented author.

You can purchase Moragh, Holly's Ghost by clicking here

And after you have purchased Moragh, Holly's Ghost, check out Maggie Tideswell's debut novel, Dark Moon. You can purchase Dark Moon by clicking here

You can follow Maggie Tideswell on Facebook by clicking here

Here is the video for Dark Moon

Can't Help Falling in Love by Bella Andre

Blurb:

How much is worth risking?

Gabe Sullivan risks his life every day as a firefighter in San Francisco, but he knows better than to risk giving his heart again. Especially not to the woman he saved from a deadly apartment fire…and can't stop thinking about.

Megan Harris owes everything to the heroic firefighter who saved her and her daughter. Everything except her heart. Because after losing her pilot husband, she has vowed to never suffer through loving—and losing—a man with a dangerous job again.

But when Gabe and Megan meet again, how can he possibly ignore her courage, determination and beauty? And how can she deny not only his strong bond with her daughter…but also his sweetly sensual kisses, challenging her to risk everything she's been guarding for so long?

Review:

First let me say that Can't Help Falling in Love is the third book in Bella Andre's new series an boy oh boy it's the best book yet. Of the eight siblings, it's now Gabe, the firefighter's, turn. This story starts out action packed with Gabe rescuing Megan and her daughter Summer when their apartment building catches fire. One difference between Gabe's story is Can't Help Falling in Love comes with a too cute little girl who is helping cupid along with his very important job. While Summer is a way, the adults sure do play. That's when the action packed turns to steamy love scenes. For as hot as this book is in the sex department, it's just as sweet in the ready made family department. Summer is a character you are sure to fall in love with very quickly. If you are considering buying this book, and you are on the fence, go ahead and buy it, you won't be disappointed. I look forward to reading the other five books in the series.

You can buy Can't Help Falling in Love here

Please continue to follow the blog tour by clicking here

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