Wednesday, August 21, 2019
Monday, August 19, 2019
Review of A Family for Jason by Virginia McCullough #AFJTour
On Tour with Prism Book Tours
Welcome to the book tour for A Family for Jason, another Harlequin Heartwarming winner from author Virginia McCullough. Read on to find out why I loved this book. Be sure to follow the rest of the tour to hear what others have to say. And of course, there is a fantastic giveaway at the end.
Welcome to the book tour for A Family for Jason, another Harlequin Heartwarming winner from author Virginia McCullough. Read on to find out why I loved this book. Be sure to follow the rest of the tour to hear what others have to say. And of course, there is a fantastic giveaway at the end.
A Family for Jason
(Back to Bluestone River #1)
By Virginia McCullough
Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 384 pagesBy Virginia McCullough
Contemporary Romance
August 1st 2019 by Harlequin Heartwarming
She’s not home for keeps
Unless he proves first love is forever
Bluestone River is a minefield of memories for Mike Abbot—all involving Ruby Driscoll. Twenty years after scandal divided them, they’re both back in their hometown. Ruby’s visit is strictly temporary. But as she uses her trauma expertise to help his vulnerable son, Mike faces what his heart has always known. Ruby’s still his one and only. This time, can he convince her to stay?
Goodreads│Amazon│B&N│Harlequin│iBooks│Kobo│GooglePlay
Should you make a purchase through my affiliate link, I may earn a few pennies at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting my websites!
Should you make a purchase through my affiliate link, I may earn a few pennies at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting my websites!
**My thoughts**
Sigh. Virginia McCullough knocks it out of the park again with this clean romance that is the first in her new series. Ruby and Mike had been high school sweethearts, until horrific tragedies separated them from each other and from the small town they had so dearly loved while growing up. Modern day difficult times, about 20 years later, have brought them both back home, neither one realizing that the other is there. It's a great foundation for a second chance romance.
The pain that the two of them experienced 20 years ago is still so raw and fresh that even I was feeling it. When it is fully revealed, it is totally understandable that neither one of them has ever been able to truly wrap their head around it. I don't know how you would.
Ruby is back to help her best friend Emma, who is undergoing back surgery after a horrible fall. Mike has just moved back with his son, who lost his mother in a tragic fire and also suffered some injuries. Jason is also selectively mute, meaning he is capable of talking, but is so traumatized at the moment that he chooses not to.
That part of the story really captured my attention and my heart. I have worked with children who are selectively mute. I have a friend who son is selectively mute. It can be tricky to deal with. My heart would burst every time Jason would make the smallest step in the right direction and it made me miss my teaching days. I completely fell in love with him and wanted to join the story so that I could try to bond with him and help him as well.
I loved getting to know Ruby and Mike. The whole time, I was rooting for them to get back together, to make it work, because it is so clear that they have a lot to hash out, but also belong together. As the title suggests, together they would make the perfect family for Jason, who really needs that extra love and stability in his life.
The people in the town apparently still hold grudges and don't like drama. The town has been suffering for 20 years. And yet people seem to want to make it thrive again. I have a feeling that foundations laid in this book will provide an upswing there in future installments. I am looking forward to seeing how this town continues to grow and all of the new people and stories yet to come.
The only issue I had with this story was at the very end, everything seemed to abruptly fall into place a little faster than I had anticipated it would. Some people may not see it that way. I just felt like I was expecting a few more chapters before the ending.
Regardless, I truly greatly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it for those who are looking for a real heartwarming clean romance.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not required to give a positive review. All opinions are my own.
About the Author
Born and raised in Chicago, Virginia McCullough has been lucky enough to develop her writing career in many locations, including the coast of Maine, the mountains of North Carolina, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and currently, Northeast Wisconsin. She started her career in nonfiction, first writing articles and then books as a ghostwriter and coauthor. She’s written more than 100 books for physicians, business owners, professional speakers and many others with information to share or a story to tell.
Virginia’s books feature characters who could be your neighbors and friends. They come in all ages and struggle with everyday life issues in small-town environments that almost always include water—oceans, lakes, or rivers. The mother of two grown children, you’ll find Virginia with her nose a book, walking on trails or her neighborhood street, or she may be packing her bag to take off for her next adventure. And she’s always working on another story about hope, healing, and second chances.
Tour Schedule
Friday, August 16, 2019
Review of Falling for Her Bodybuard by Amy Vastine
(Grace Note Records #4)
By Amy Vastine
Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 384 Pages
August 1st 2019 by Harlequin Heartwarming
She needs his protection…
But can he protect his heart?
Radio personality Kelly Bonner isn’t convinced she needs a bodyguard, especially one as intensely good-looking as Detective Donovan Walsh. Yet beneath Donovan’s tough-guy facade is a man struggling to raise his sister’s children. A man Kelly could care about…if he’d let her. Now she’ll have to find a way to convince her big, bad bodyguard that his family—and his heart—are safe in her hands.
**My thoughts**
Somehow, this is my first Amy Vastine book and the first one that I have read out of this Grace Note Records series. I think I am going to have to fix that now and check out more from this series and from this author! So I will say that although this is the fourth book in the series, I truly believe it works as a standalone book, because I was good to go through the whole thing.
I liked Kelly from the get-go. She's one of those girls I would totally be friends with. She gets along well with everyone and seems to have a lot of fun in her life, especially thanks to her job as a DJ at the radio station. She has a heart of gold and it's no wonder people easily fall for her. Just stalkers always suck and this guy takes it to some weird levels.
I also liked Donovan from the beginning. He starts out trying to be a cranky borderline alpha male, especially now that he is on desk duty before being assigned to Kelly, but you can quickly see how he has many layers and also has a heart of gold. Any man who steps in to take care of his niece and nephew after they are orphaned is bound to turn out to be an amazing person. The more we learned about him, the more I found myself even starting to crush on him a little bit.
Their chemistry leaps off of the pages and warms your heart as they get to know each other and dance around their feelings for each other. The mystery of the stalker keeps things a little more exciting, without being overly dramatic. And I'm madly in love with Avery and Graham and want to adopt them myself.
I loved this story. It was a hard one to put down to get a little bit of sleep. So don't start reading it right before bed. It's a great addition to the Harlequin Heartwarming Series. And like I said, I'm going to have to find more from this author and the Grace Note Records series now.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Other Books in the Series
About the Author
Amy Vastine has been plotting stories in her head for as long as she can remember. An eternal optimist, she studied social work, hoping to teach others how to find their silver lining. Now, she enjoys creating happily ever afters for all to read. Amy lives outside Chicago with her high school sweetheart husband, three teenagers who keep her on her toes, and their two sweet but mischievous pups.
Tour Schedule
On Tour with Prism Book Tours
Welcome to the book tour for Falling for Her Bodyguard by Amy Vastine! I just love these Harlequin Heartwarming books! Check out my review before you download your own copy. Follow the tour for even more reviews, excerpts, and more. And of course, best of luck entering the great giveaway at the end!
Welcome to the book tour for Falling for Her Bodyguard by Amy Vastine! I just love these Harlequin Heartwarming books! Check out my review before you download your own copy. Follow the tour for even more reviews, excerpts, and more. And of course, best of luck entering the great giveaway at the end!
Falling for Her Bodyguard
(Grace Note Records #4)
By Amy Vastine
Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 384 Pages
August 1st 2019 by Harlequin Heartwarming
She needs his protection…
But can he protect his heart?
Radio personality Kelly Bonner isn’t convinced she needs a bodyguard, especially one as intensely good-looking as Detective Donovan Walsh. Yet beneath Donovan’s tough-guy facade is a man struggling to raise his sister’s children. A man Kelly could care about…if he’d let her. Now she’ll have to find a way to convince her big, bad bodyguard that his family—and his heart—are safe in her hands.
Goodreads│Amazon│B&N│iBooks│Kobo│Harlequin
Should you make a purchase through my affiliate link, I may earn a few pennies at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting my websites!
Should you make a purchase through my affiliate link, I may earn a few pennies at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting my websites!
**My thoughts**
Somehow, this is my first Amy Vastine book and the first one that I have read out of this Grace Note Records series. I think I am going to have to fix that now and check out more from this series and from this author! So I will say that although this is the fourth book in the series, I truly believe it works as a standalone book, because I was good to go through the whole thing.
I liked Kelly from the get-go. She's one of those girls I would totally be friends with. She gets along well with everyone and seems to have a lot of fun in her life, especially thanks to her job as a DJ at the radio station. She has a heart of gold and it's no wonder people easily fall for her. Just stalkers always suck and this guy takes it to some weird levels.
I also liked Donovan from the beginning. He starts out trying to be a cranky borderline alpha male, especially now that he is on desk duty before being assigned to Kelly, but you can quickly see how he has many layers and also has a heart of gold. Any man who steps in to take care of his niece and nephew after they are orphaned is bound to turn out to be an amazing person. The more we learned about him, the more I found myself even starting to crush on him a little bit.
Their chemistry leaps off of the pages and warms your heart as they get to know each other and dance around their feelings for each other. The mystery of the stalker keeps things a little more exciting, without being overly dramatic. And I'm madly in love with Avery and Graham and want to adopt them myself.
I loved this story. It was a hard one to put down to get a little bit of sleep. So don't start reading it right before bed. It's a great addition to the Harlequin Heartwarming Series. And like I said, I'm going to have to find more from this author and the Grace Note Records series now.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Other Books in the Series
About the Author
Amy Vastine has been plotting stories in her head for as long as she can remember. An eternal optimist, she studied social work, hoping to teach others how to find their silver lining. Now, she enjoys creating happily ever afters for all to read. Amy lives outside Chicago with her high school sweetheart husband, three teenagers who keep her on her toes, and their two sweet but mischievous pups.Tour Schedule
Tour Giveaway
1 winner will receive a $25 Amazon Gift Card, a Reading is my Superpower custom-made sign, an autographed copy of The Girl He Used to Love and a bookmark (if winner is outside US then they would receive an ebook and egift card only)
Ends August 21, 2019
Thursday, August 15, 2019
Wednesday, August 14, 2019
In the Mind of a Serial Killer - The Brandon Fisher FBI Series by Carolyn Arnold
The Brandon Fisher FBI Series
Profilers. Serial killers. The hunt is on. Do serial killers and the FBI fascinate you? Do you like getting inside the minds of killers, love being creeped out, sleeping with your eyes open, and feeling like you’re involved in murder investigations? Then join FBI agent and profiler Brandon Fisher and his team with the Behavioral Analysis Unit in their hunt for serial killers.This is the perfect book series for fans of JT Ellison, Catherine Coulter, Allison Brennan, and Blake Pierce. This series is also bound to entertain those who enjoy Criminal Minds, NCIS, Silence of the Lambs, Seven, Dexter, Luther, and True Crime.
Read in any order or follow the series from the beginning: Eleven, Silent Graves, The Defenseless, Blue Baby, Violated, Remnants, On the Count of Three.
Remnants
All that remains are whispers of the past…When multiple body parts are recovered from the Little Ogeechee River in Savannah, Georgia, local law enforcement calls in FBI agent and profiler Brandon Fisher and his team to investigate. But with the remains pointing to three separate victims, this isn’t proving to be an open-and-shut case.
With no quick means of identifying the victims, building a profile of this serial killer is proving more challenging than usual. How is the killer picking these victims? Why are their limbs being severed and bodies mutilated? And what is it about them that is triggering this killer to murder?
The questions compound as the body count continues to rise, and when a torso painted blue and missing its heart is found, the case takes an even darker turn. But this is only the beginning, and these new leads draw the FBI into a creepy psychological nightmare. One thing is clear, though: the killing isn’t going to stop until they figure it all out. And they are running out of time…
Do serial killers and the FBI fascinate you? Do you like getting inside the minds of killers, or love being creeped out, sleeping with your eyes open, and feeling like you’re involved in murder investigations? Then the Brandon Fisher FBI series is for you! Join FBI agent and profiler Brandon Fisher and his team with the Behavioral Analysis Unit in their hunt for serial killers.
Each book in the series takes the reader inside the mind of a serial killer and uncovers his or her thought process and motivation. Each book also follows the execution of torture on the victims and their murders. And of course, each book preys on society’s fascination with serial killers.
Please enjoy the following excerpt from Chapter 12 of Remnants (Brandon Fisher FBI series):
Killing was the best sedative. Just knowing that the time was coming had allowed him to fall asleep the second his head had hit the pillow last night, and now the clock on his nightstand told him it was almost noon.
He got out of bed and opened the curtains, letting the sun spill in and blanket him in its warm glow. Closing his eyes, he bathed in its splendor. His breath was calm and deep as he got down onto his knees and spread his arms heavenward, giving thanks for not just another day but for the blessing of life. Not his, but what would be the beginning of another offering.
He remained there in a meditative state, letting his consciousness drift to the other realm, a place far too few visited or were even aware of. But it was in this stillness that he found his true self, his identity, and his purpose, where he became centered and focused on the seriousness of his mission.
He wrapped himself in a black robe and shuffled downstairs and out the back door. He stood on the patio facing the riverbank with his eyes closed.
As the sun warmed his eyelids, he imagined himself being carried up toward the sky, merging with the flames, the source of life, and shedding his human form. He knew that he belonged somewhere else—a different plane of existence—but the physical required roots. So for now, he was grounded.
He remained standing there until the sun ducked behind a cloud, the shadows casting over him. He opened his eyes and knew. It was time.
His stride was full of purpose as he returned inside to where he kept the man in a dimly lit room. He closed the door behind him and headed for the preparation room.
The man was standing, restrained at the wrists and ankles, and held up by a clasp around his neck. His arms and legs were stretched out like rays of sunshine. The offering was free to talk, but his spirit had become broken with the passage of time and he rarely whispered a word.
If you’re brave enough to tap into the dark side, Remnants is available where books are sold in e-book, paperback, and hardcover, including the following retailers:
About Carolyn Arnold
CAROLYN ARNOLD is an international bestselling and award-winning author, as well as a speaker, teacher, and inspirational mentor. She has four continuing fiction series—Detective Madison Knight, Brandon Fisher FBI, McKinley Mysteries, and Matthew Connor Adventures—and has written nearly thirty books. Her genre diversity offers her readers everything from cozy to hard-boiled mysteries, and thrillers to action adventures.Both her female detective and FBI profiler series have been praised by those in law enforcement as being accurate and entertaining, leading her to adopt the trademark: POLICE PROCEDURALS RESPECTED BY LAW ENFORCEMENT™.
Carolyn was born in a small town and enjoys spending time outdoors, but she also loves the lights of a big city. Grounded by her roots and lifted by her dreams, her overactive imagination insists that she tell her stories. Her intention is to touch the hearts of millions with her books, to entertain, inspire, and empower.
She currently lives in London, Ontario, with her husband and beagle and is a member of Crime Writers of Canada and Sisters in Crime.
Connect with CAROLYN ARNOLD Online:
Website - http://carolynarnold.net/
Twitter - https://twitter.com/Carolyn_Arnold
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/AuthorCarolynArnold
And don’t forget to sign up for her newsletter for up-to-date information on release and special offers at http://carolynarnold.net/newsletters
Carolyn Arnold will be giving away a paperback copy of Remnants. Follow the tour and enter the Rafflecopter for your chance to win!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Tuesday, August 13, 2019
13 Steps to the Cellar by Teresa Mathews
I love a good mystery story, and this one has the added fun of using the number 13. Keep reading to enjoy an excerpt before you download your own copy. Leave comments and questions for the author. And then be sure to follow the rest of the tour for even more fun and the giveaway!
13 Steps to the Cellar
There were thirteen steps to the cellar. They were steep and they were narrow—but was a fall down them enough to have caused the twenty-seven deep lacerations to her aunt’s head?Callie Harris travels from her home in Alabama to her aunt’s former mansion in Maine to unravel the haunting forty-year-old mystery of Dr. Laverne Harris Doss’ brutal death.
Why wasn’t a murder weapon found? Was her uncle justly convicted of the killing? Was his mistress involved? Or was the murderer the bearded stranger rumored to have arrived by train that night?
In the charming town of Richmond, located on the banks of Maine’s historic Kennebec River, Callie uncovers the community’s darkest secrets—a botched police investigation, a betrayed widow’s lie, a dead woman’s blackmail, and a wealthy philanthropist’s shame. The web of intrigue extends far beyond Callie's suspicions and its connection to her personal story pierces her to the core.
Read an excerpt:
A man hovered over the crumpled body of the woman at the bottom of the cellar stairs. An awful, guttural sound forced its way up from deep in her lungs. A cavernous head gash bled profusely, the blood pooling, forming a red halo around her auburn hair. Her glassy, fixed eyes looked up at Callie, pleading for help. I must stop the bleeding, Callie cried. She hurried down the stairs, her feet heavy, her heart pounding. Why can’t I breathe? Why can’t I reach her? Why won’t my feet move faster? She was only steps from her aunt when the grimacing man turned toward her, then looked back to Laverne and raised his hand for a final blow.
Buy links
On sale for $0.99 during the tour!
Should you make a purchase through my affiliate link, I may earn a few pennies at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting my websites!
About Teresa Mathews
Teresa Mathews is a graduate of The University of South Alabama. She’s a member of the Mobile Writers Guild and serves on the Board of Directors for the Alabama Nursery and Landscape Association.An avid gardener and artist, she has multiple book covers to her credit. Several years ago after visiting the site of her real-life aunt’s murder, Teresa discovered another passion–storytelling. Although inspired by an actual tragedy, Thirteen Steps to the Cellar is fiction.
Raised on the Gulf Coast, Teresa, her husband, and son now live on a farm with a second home on the sparkling white sands of Fort Morgan, Alabama.
https://instagram.com/teresamathewsauthor
https//www.teresamathews.com
amazon.com/author/teresamathews
facebook – TeresaMathewsauthor
http://tirgearrpublishing.com/authors/Mathews_Teresa
Teresa Mathews will be awarding a $25 Amazon or B/N GC to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Monday, August 12, 2019
The Persistence of Memory Book 1: Deja Vu by Karen Janowsky
Welcome to the book blast for The Persistence of Memory Book 1: Deja Vu by Karen Janowsky! I have an excerpt for you to enjoy today, and then you can follow the rest of the book tour to read even more excerpts. Leave questions and comments for the author along the way. And also be sure to enter the giveaway!
The Persistence of Memory Book 1: Deja Vu
When superheroes fall in love, anything can happen.
Daniel Hecht doesn’t belong in this century. Catapulted into the present from 1943, he’s out of place and out of touch. Still, he was the American war hero called “Lionheart” and his heroism has followed him into the modern world. He now leads an underground group of superpowered misfits, but the misfit he keeps turning to is Nina Asher.
Nina has a vast knowledge of history, yet no idea who she is or where she’s from. She has become the target of dangerous creatures that have appeared all over the world. As she and Daniel work to decipher an ancient, cryptic myth, they experience flashbacks to things that never could have happened. They are falling in love, but there’s something they’re sure they need to remember, and it’s keeping them apart.
The key to saving the world may begin with the act of remembering.
Read an excerpt:
From CHAPTER TWO
Labyrinth
‘The New Woman was blessed. Each of the gods lay a gift inside the womb of the unborn goddess.’
July 2011, Roosevelt University, Washington, D.C.
Nina
“As a matter of fact, I already have gotten lost in here,” Nina admitted. She had just led Daniel through the archives room at the back of the library. After a few unintended detours, they managed to find their way back to the entrance. “I don’t think I’m usually this bad with direction.” She wondered if she should have said that aloud. It seemed like the opposite of what one should say while trying to make a good impression. She saw him look at her sideways and couldn’t quite tell whether he was trying not to laugh at her.
“I can see why.” He turned around, surveying the labyrinthine expanse of corridors demarcated by large crates and floor-to-ceiling shelves which were crammed with boxes, tools, and large, old-looking objects. He smiled. “You’ve got your work cut out for you, organizing this place.”
He turned around again. He was only a few inches away from her, and when he reached past her waist, she held her breath. A memory flashed of the same motion, the same, comforting scent, like the woods after it rained, and a familiar, definitively masculine arm pulling her closer. The memory vanished as he leaned in and turned the doorknob, holding the door open for her to pass. She met his eyes as she walked by him and he looked as startled as she felt. She tried to blink away the residual, now contentless déjà vu. “Well, I won’t be bored, at least.” She tried to get a quick, surreptitious impression of his reaction, hoping his face wouldn’t register disappointment in her lack of wit. When she glanced up, it was obvious that he had been looking at her as well. They locked eyes and looked away.
Where to Buy:
Should you make a purchase through my affiliate link, I may earn a few pennies at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting my websites!
About Karen Janowsky
Author website: https://www.karenjanowsky.com
Social Media:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Karen-Janowsky-391334061451858/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Karen_Janowsky
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorkarenjanowsky/
Karen Janowsky will be awarding a digital copy of the entire Persistence of Memory trilogy: Deja vu, All Our Yesterdays, and The Beginning of Always, in epub or mobi, to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Review of Trusting Her Heart by Tara Randel #THHTour
Can a love built on lies…
…survive the truth?
Serena Stanhope fears her dark past might ruin the life she’s built as a successful shop owner. Especially when handsome Logan Masterson suddenly arrives in town asking questions about her background. He seems to have his own secrets, but the pair share an instant connection and Serena finds herself falling for Logan. He could destroy everything—or he could be the chance at love she thought she’d never have…
USA Today Bestselling Author Tara Randel has enjoyed a lifelong love of books, especially romance and mystery genres, so it didn't come as a surprise when she began writing with the dream of becoming published. Family values, mystery and, of course, love and romance are her favorite themes, because she believes love is the greatest gift of all. Tara lives on the West Coast of Florida, where gorgeous sunsets inspire the creation of heartwarming stories, filled with love, laughter and the occasional mystery.
Prize #1: Signed print copies of The Bridal Bouquet, The Lawman's Secret Vow, and Rival Hearts, tote bag, water bottle and $25 Amazon Gift Card. (Open to US only)
Prize #2: $25 Amazon e-Gift Card (Open Internationally)
On Tour with Prism Book Tours
Welcome to the book tour for Trusting Her Heart by Tara Randel. This is the third book in her Meet Me at the Altar series, but reads well as a standalone. Keep on reading for more of my thoughts on this book, and then follow the tour for excerpts and more reviews. And don't forget to enter the awesome giveaway!
Welcome to the book tour for Trusting Her Heart by Tara Randel. This is the third book in her Meet Me at the Altar series, but reads well as a standalone. Keep on reading for more of my thoughts on this book, and then follow the tour for excerpts and more reviews. And don't forget to enter the awesome giveaway!
Trusting Her Heart
(Meet Me at the Altar #3)
By Tara Randel
By Tara Randel
Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 384 Pages
August 1st 2019 by Harlequin Heartwarming…survive the truth?
Serena Stanhope fears her dark past might ruin the life she’s built as a successful shop owner. Especially when handsome Logan Masterson suddenly arrives in town asking questions about her background. He seems to have his own secrets, but the pair share an instant connection and Serena finds herself falling for Logan. He could destroy everything—or he could be the chance at love she thought she’d never have…
Goodreads│Amazon│B&N│iBooks│Kobo│Harlequin
Should you make a purchase through one of my affiliate links, I may earn a few pennies at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting my websites!
Should you make a purchase through one of my affiliate links, I may earn a few pennies at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting my websites!
**My thoughts**
When I started reading this book, I felt like I already knew the town of Golden and many of its inhabitants. They were so familiar. And then I realized that this was the third book in a series and I read the first book a year ago. I did miss the second book, but was still able to fully enjoy this story. So I would say it works quite well as a standalone book, though you will enjoy reading all of the books in this series.
Serena and Logan both have huge secrets in their past that they would prefer to leave hidden. Unfortunately, life isn't going to let them do that. Even worse, they have completely fallen for each other, despite their best efforts not to. Can their romance survive those horrible histories?
I really like the characters in this book, even if I am not a fan of how distrusting Deke and all of his brothers can be. I will acknowledge that I can't blame them for wanting to look out for their families, though. And Logan isn't very trusting, either, but is looking out for his grandmother, as she has been swindled in the past. So devotion to family is a saving grace for all of these men.
I really like Serena and felt protective of her. She is determined to make a go of her new life. She regrets her past, though it wasn't totally her fault. And she has been working to make restitution.
You know that the truth is going to erupt at some point. You're on pins and needles while you're waiting for the big revelations to happen, because at the same time, you want Logan and Serena to be able to fall for each other in a big and honest way and to work things out. And I love the town of Golden. It sounds like a quaint place I wouldn't mind visiting one day. I am looking forward to more stories from here.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to provide a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Other Books in the Series
About the Author
USA Today Bestselling Author Tara Randel has enjoyed a lifelong love of books, especially romance and mystery genres, so it didn't come as a surprise when she began writing with the dream of becoming published. Family values, mystery and, of course, love and romance are her favorite themes, because she believes love is the greatest gift of all. Tara lives on the West Coast of Florida, where gorgeous sunsets inspire the creation of heartwarming stories, filled with love, laughter and the occasional mystery.
Tour Schedule
Tour Giveaway
Prize #1: Signed print copies of The Bridal Bouquet, The Lawman's Secret Vow, and Rival Hearts, tote bag, water bottle and $25 Amazon Gift Card. (Open to US only)
Prize #2: $25 Amazon e-Gift Card (Open Internationally)
Ends August 21, 2019
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Sunday, August 11, 2019
Love and Other Mistakes by Jessica Kate Book Tour Grand Finale #LOMPrismTour
Book Tour Grand Finale for
Love and Other Mistakes
By Jessica Kate
We hope you enjoyed the tour! If you missed any of the stops, including the Q&A at
each stop of the tour, you'll find snippets, as well as the link to each full post, below:
each stop of the tour, you'll find snippets, as well as the link to each full post, below:
Meagan Davenport - Review
"I liked sooooo very much about this book. I found myself literally LOL-ing at times, to the startled reactions of those around me (on the train or at the nail salon). The author is downright hilarious, and I appreciated how she incorporated humor into some very serious topics."
Candrel's Crafts, Cooks, and Characters - Interview
Describe your book in 25 words or less.
To land her dream internship, a woman must nanny her ex-fiancé’s infant son and deal with his troubled teenage niece.
(I have five words left, so–) sassy, love/hate, comedy, drama.
Library Lady's Kid Lit - Review
"Jessica Kate has written a novel that many teens can relate to. On one level it is about relationships and forgiveness. On another level it is about God’s love for us even when we think no one loves us and the people who should care the most about us fail. . . . I would not hesitate to add this to my K-12 Christian school library. It is appropriate for high school age and adults."
Rockin' Book Reviews - Review
"This is a delightfully, entertaining novel addressing the topics of love, betrayal, facing problematic situations, forgiveness and other Christian ethics."
Beauty in the Binding - Spotlight
Did you have a favorite character in this novel and who is it?
Jessica: This is a weird answer, but NICK! I know, he’s not a main character, but this teen math nerd has a Nirvana T-shirt, knows how to hot wire a car, and raises baby chickens as a surprise to cheer up his mother. He’s such a sweetie pie!
Bookworm Lisa - Review
"I really enjoyed this story of love, forgiveness, loss, and compassion. The characters are complicated and the author does a great job of describing them, how they are feeling, and moving them forward in a positive way. . . . I appreciated how they came back to their faith and trusted God to help see them through."
Singing Librarian Books - Spotlight
SLB: What inspired the idea for this story?
Jessica Kate: Complicated answer! The actual plot – entirely fictional. But the emotional journeys? I started writing this book at 22, working a job that didn’t lead anywhere, single, and unsure where I fit in life. I felt like I was missing out on my purpose—and so did my main character, Natalie.
Peaceful Pastime - Review
"For a debut novel I thought that one was pretty impressive and I liked that author had characters from various age groups and blended them perfectly within the pages of this book. A story of family and friends and how at times we have to make sacrifices to help not only your loved ones but those who are need of help. too. . . . Overall this storyline is much more tender than I thought it would be and that's just fine with me. I like the writing of Jessica Kate and I will read more of her work."
Radiant Light - Review
"This book met all the things I adore in an inspirational rom-com. Jessica Kate handles tough subjects and real relationships well. The inspirational thread is woven throughout the book like a beautiful ribbon. I highly recommend this book."
Life Is What It's Called - Review
"It was dramatic narrative interwoven with romance, forgiveness and sense of family. It was interesting to read about the challenges in Natalie, Jem and Lilli's lives and how they overcome their hardships and past. I would recommend reading it."
A Modern Day Fairy Tale - Review
"In the midst of all the drama and heavy issues was just the right amount of humor to keep it a lighter and more entertaining read. . . . I personally really enjoyed it. It was still clean, just more real. As such, I could see that it could appeal also to a wider audience who might not generally prefer Christian fiction as well. This is a great, quick read that I would certainly recommend, and I cannot wait to see what Jessica Kate has in store for us next!"
I'm Into Books - Spotlight
Q. Do you write full time or do you also have another job outside of being a wonderful author?
A. I work full-time as a training developer at a small bank. It’s fun getting to use my creativity in a team context, especially when we make training videos. I like to pretend I’m Steven Spielberg 😉
Backing Books - Review
"I do think that this is a really good read. Natalie and Jem are an adorable couple, taking care of an adorable baby, and Lili is an amazingly relatable teenager. And the heavy, emotional scenes are balanced well with lighthearted moments that show the brighter side of life. There were a few moments which seemed unrealistic, but those played more into the comedic side of the story, making them easier to roll with."
Among the Reads - Spotlight
Jessica, what would you like your readers to take away from Love and Other Mistakes?
Hope! Life, family and love can all be messy and scary—but God is bigger than the mess and brings us love and joy!
Uplifting Reads - Review
"There is a lot going on in this story! . . . In a way, these problems almost made the story seem a bit more realistic, because we often get plagued with multiple life events that cause stress and chaos. Life is not pretty; it is messy. . . . I also want to point out that while this is listed as a Christian contemporary romance, you are not going to have Christianity shoved down your throat. To me it was more of a way at looking at how even Christians do not have perfect lives. But these people are, at the same time, using their faith to help them through. . . . So I think readers who are not necessarily interested in Christian romances would also enjoy this one."
Wishful Endings - Spotlight
What is one piece of advice your character, Natalie, would give us about love?
Natalie at the start of the book would bark a slightly bitter laugh and shrug, then change the subject.
Natalie at the end of the book would say that if you don’t understand how God loves you (and that your value has nothing to do with your good works or mistakes), then it’ll make your relationships much harder.
It’s when you get that clear understanding from God about your own value, then that love can more easily spill over to others.
Two Points of Interest - Review
"Natalie Groves has big dreams and hopes but, when her fiancé, Jeremy Walters, suddenly breaks up with her, she felt lost. Her father was then diagnosed with cancer, which left Natalie struggling to keep her family afloat while nursing her broken heart. With her grand plans in the rearview mirror, Natalie's relationship with God is also stilted. . . . Overall, I think it's a decent read for young adults."
Just Your Average Reviews - Review
"This was a good debut novel! I loved the author's writing style and voice! . . . I don't often remember quotes or make note of them, but this one really stood out to me and touched my heart. "The truth is you are far more than a job, a ministry, or even a calling. You are a person created and saved by God, no matter what your job is or what you do in life."
Overall, this is a good story."
Angela Walker's Reviews - Interview
The original seed of an idea was a story about a man and a woman who were raising a kid, but they weren’t a couple. From that I got the idea of Natalie nannying her ex-fiancé's son and it all grew from there!
I adore love/hate stories, so the idea of ex’s having to work together is one I find endlessly entertaining! :D
Splashes of Joy - Review
"This is a nice and interesting read. There is a lot going on in this story. . . . The author handles each situation going on in the story really well. . . . Overall, this debut novel is pretty good. It’s fun to read, and will keep you entertained for quite a few hours. I really think the younger generation would love this book, as in late teens and early 20’s."
Locks, Hooks and Books - Review
"Love and Other Mistakes is a good read. It has some cute, fun, and delightful moments that made me laugh out loud. There were some tearing up moments that made me want to grab the tissues. . . . I believe it is worth a read."
Love and Other Mistakes
By Jessica Kate
Christian Contemporary Romance
Paperback, Audiobook & ebook, 352 Pages
July 30th 2019 by Thomas Nelson
Jessica Kate’s hilarious, romantic debut novel proves that some mistakes—including love—are begging to be made again and again.
Natalie Groves once had big dreams. But soon after her fiancé, Jeremy Walters, inexplicably broke off their engagement and left town, her father was diagnosed with cancer. Now tasked with keeping her family afloat, Natalie’s grand plans have evaporated . . . and God feels very far away.
Fast-forward seven years, and Jeremy is back in Charlottesville with an infant son and years of regrets. When his niece, Lili, lands on his doorstep in need of a place to stay, Jeremy needs help—and fast.
An internship opening finally presents Natalie a chance at her dream job, but she needs a second income to work around it—and the only offer available is Jeremy’s. They could be the solutions to one another’s problems, provided they don’t kill each other in the process. When they join forces, sparks fly. But they both know there’s a thin line between love and hate . . . and that love will turn out to be the best decision—or the biggest mistake—of all.
Praise for the Book
“A stunning debut . . . This tale of love and redemption will stay with you long after you've closed the book. A must-read.” —Rachel Hauck, New York Times bestselling author of The Wedding Dress
“Witty. Charming. Heartfelt. I could go on and on about Jessica Kate’s debut novel. From its highly relatable characters to its pitch-perfect dialogue, Love and Other Mistakes is a delightful, romantic read filled with just the right amount of sass. I lost count of the number of times I laughed out loud as I watched Natalie and Jem navigate their relationships, careers, and faith. Definitely one of the most enjoyable books I've read lately, and I can't wait to see what’s next from Jessica Kate!” —Melissa Tagg, Carol Award–winning author of Now and Then and Always and the Walker Family series
“Love and Other Mistakes wraps a poignant and warm look at relationships within a smart, sly, and knowing comedic voice. Readers of Sally Thorne and Bethany Turner will be immediately at home with Natalie: an all-too-real heroine who balances whip-smart agency with an endearing vulnerability and whose intersection with long-lost Jeremy helps her forge a path to confidence and discover the woman she was always meant to be. Kate’s unputdownable debut recognizes that all human relationships—familial, friendship, romantic—are worth the keen eye and clever insight of her talented pen.” —Rachel McMillan, author of the Van Buren and DeLuca Mysteries
“If you’re looking for a story with sass on top of style, or a fresh voice pumped full of fun, you need to read Love and Other Mistakes. Then after you’ve enjoyed this—and I’m confident you will—make a date with whatever this exciting new author writes next!” —David Rawlings, author of The Baggage Handler
Bookstagram Tour
Find out more about the tour here.
About the Author
Australian author Jessica Kate is obsessed with sassy romances.
She packs her novels with love, hate, and everything in between—and then nerds out over her favorite books, movies and TV in the StoryNerds podcast. When she’s not writing or discussing fiction, she’s hunting the world for the greatest pasta in existence.
Her debut novel Love and Other Mistakes releases July 2019, while A Girl’s Guide to the Outback hits shelves in January 2020.
Receive her sassy short The Kiss Dare FREE when you sign up for her newsletter at jessicakatewriting.com. StoryNerds podcast is available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and at www.storynerds.podbean.com.
Saturday, August 10, 2019
Review of Movie Scripts and Madness by Melissa Baldwin
Movie Scripts and Madness
From bestselling romantic comedy author Melissa Baldwin comes a new Cozy Mystery series!Kendall Whitaker always longed for a starring role in a movie full of action, adventure, love, and murder. She just never thought she would be living in one.
An aspiring actress, Kendall left her normal life in Phoenix for the bright lights of Hollywood. She hoped taking a job as the assistant to the miserable Marketing Director at Blossom Studios would be her stepping-stone to stardom. When she finally gets her hands on an audition script, she refuses to let anything stand in her way. What she doesn’t expect is the return of her arch nemesis, the attention of a very dashing actor, or finding a dead body.
Before she knows it, Kendall finds herself embroiled in the mysterious events taking over the day-to-day activity at the studio. With each unfortunate incident—including the disappearance of her boss—Kendall is smack dab in the middle of it all and on the radar of the handsome detective in charge of the investigation. Could the answer be hidden in a recently canceled movie, or has the answer been in front of her the entire time?
Someone is set on destroying Blossom Studios, and they will do whatever it takes to succeed. Kendall must solve this mystery to prove her innocence and save her own life.
Available on Amazon
**My thoughts**
This is Melissa Baldwin's first attempt at a cozy mystery. While not my favorite book of hers, it does show some potential, and I think the series will improve as she keeps going.
Kendall works for a movie studio as a stepping stone to an acting career. When she accidentally stumbles upon a dead body at the studio, she finds herself thrust into being an amateur sleuth. It's totally self-serving, but I could see myself wanting to do the same.
She is also dealing with an arch-nemesis from high school, Emma, who has her hook set in Grayson, the hot, popular actor who has his sights set on Kendall.
Kendall seems a bit naive. Emma is nasty. There's something a little shady about Grayson that I can't put my finger on. But Kendall is so hoping for love that you want it to work. And then you add in the weird disappearance of Mr. Poole, her boss and threats against her.
There are some good twists and turns and you honestly cannot really be sure whom to trust. The ending may surprise you, as well as some of the developing relationships.
I do plan on reading the next in the series, because I feel like it can only get better. And I am totally a sucker for both cozy mysteries and Melissa Baldwin's books.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)