Illegal Procedure

Posted on by Cathy

This post contains affiliate links.

About Illegal Procedure

illegal procedureWhen Shay Campbell flees her abusive boyfriend and ends up in the middle of nowhere, she stumbles upon an unoccupied cabin. At least she thinks it’s unoccupied. That is, until NFL Quarterback Josh Wisner shows up. Too bad he thinks she’s a groupie who’s broken into his house.

After kicking her out, Josh has second thoughts, but with her ex hunting her, Shay will have to decide if she’s safer with Josh or out on her own.

Illegal Procedure is a sweet, standalone sports romance.
My review
I love it when I get free books! This was one of those that I was able to download for free. And it was a good story, a quick read and it was clean. That’s something I’m always looking for in a book.
Shay is a strong woman. She leaves her abusive boyfriend before he can hurt her again. She knows that if he ever catches her, she’s going to be in huge trouble. She’s trying to get as far away from him as she can. But she doesn’t have a car or very much money. She ends up dropped off in the mountains in the middle of nowhere with nothing but the clothes on her back. As she’s walking down the road in her flip flops, she finds a cabin in the woods. All she wants is a drink, but she ends up breaking in. And the owner comes and finds her. That’s Josh. 
Josh is a superstar football player. He is used to women throwing themselves at him because of that. He quickly realizes that Shay is not one of those. But he’s not quite sure what to think of her. I liked the way Josh decides to give Shay a chance and not kick her out of his cabin. But at the same time, he isn’t sure he trusts her. That’s part of why he doesn’t tell her who he is.
I liked the plot of this one. It’s one where you know there is danger coming but you can’t warn the main characters to get out of the way in time. I can’t wait to read more by this author!
I purchased Illegal Procedure from Amazon when it was free. All opinions are my own.
Purchase link
What to read after Illegal Procedure

#FallingInLove – Mylissa Demeyere – Spotlight and Giveaway

Posted on by Cathy

The Songs of You and Me by Mylissa Demeyere

A SECOND CHANCE AT FIRST LOVE.

Jane Hartford fell head over heels for Jackson at the tender age of fifteen. She spent most of high school pining for him, until she realized he wasn’t going to see her as anything more than his baby sister’s best friend. Now she finds herself single with a daughter, a broken heart, and songs that remind her of a long lost love.

Jackson Wright is a man living with regret. His biggest one, never acting on his feelings for Jane. When he returns to Bellebrook, the town they grew up in, he literally runs into her and his world gets tossed upside down and sideways.

This time, Jackson isn’t willing to give up. With a meddling sister eager to push both of them together, he believes things might actually work out. That is, if they can overcome the heavy baggage they both carry. Follow Jackson and Jane as they revisit their past, figuring out what went wrong so long ago.

Will they learn they have the power to make things right in the present?

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BOOK TRAILER

(18 year-old Jackson)

“So, Evan, huh?” I blurted out, when I found her in the kitchen, snacking on chips.

“Don’t even start. I don’t know what your sister was thinking.”

“You both looked awful cozy in there.” I winced, noting the jealous tone. Jane wasn’t mine, and I hadn’t done anything to change that.

“Real cozy.” Jane’s sarcasm lifted my spirits. “I love Sarah, but sometimes she makes it hard for me to remember that.”

“Yeah, she can be a handful.” I wasn’t happy with this setup, either, but if it gave me time with Jane now, I wasn’t going to complain.

”If Evan puts his arm around me once more, I might punch him.” That mental image plastered a smile on my face.

“So why did you agree to this ‘date’ if you don’t like the punk?” Must be a loaded question, because Jane turned a cute shade of pink as she fidgeted with her sleeve.

“I don’t really know. Sarah thought it would be a good idea, and then she made me read a magazine article on how to make him like me. I don’t even want him to like me.”

That sounded like Sarah, all right.

“So, what are you supposed to be doing to get him to like you?” I couldn’t help myself. Her fidgeting and blushing were too tempting to leave it alone.

“I’m supposed to flirt. But I think he’s doing enough of that for the both of us.” She huffed and averted her gaze.

“Does it make you uncomfortable when a guy flirts with you?” I closed the distance between us and leaned into her personal space. The nearness forced her gaze up. She looked confused, like she was trying to figure me out.

“No, just incensed.” Her voice came out breathless.

“Incensed?” I raised my brows. Her choice of word had me smiling, but not backing off.

“You know what it means.” She caught on to what I was doing.

“Am I annoying you now?” I raised my hand and rested it on the cabinet, right next to her head. She gulped but didn’t move to push me back. Her eyes dipped down to my lips. “Are you irritated, Jane?” I whispered, so close I felt her breath fanning my face. Her hand came up to rest on my chest, my muscles tightening under her touch.

 

 

A debut author can be hit or miss for me and let me just say, I didn’t want to put this one down–I couldn’t read it fast enough. There is so much tangible emotion involved in this story. It takes talent to engage a reader, give the characters a second chance, and talk about hard subjects without the book being a downer. I’m already looking forward to Book 2! – Katie’s Clean Book Collection

As Demeyere peppers the past in with the present, readers are given the best kind of peek into the history between Jackson and Jane. The longing, the doubt, the pain, the shattered hope.
I was so drawn into Jane and Jackson’s story, I flew through this book, rooting for these two characters to find what they’d missed the first time around. The Songs of You and Me is the playlist of the journey they take to their happily ever after—a journey that shouldn’t be missed. – Remembrancy, Inspirational and clean reads to remember and see

The Songs of You and Me was a wonderful read… I was so impressed with this new author. I can guarantee that I will be reading anything else she writes. I was happy with the ending of the story and I hated that it was the end. When I get that attached to characters I know that the novel is a winner. This is another book I’m recommending for your Summer Reading. It’s truly earned its place to be read far and wide with its captivating story and characters. I also loved the playlist with songs to listen to as you read each chapter! – Why Not? Because I Said So Book Reviews.

 

Mylissa Demeyere

Mylissa Demeyere was born in Belgium, and resides in the beautiful city of Ghent. She lives in a somewhat organized home with her four beautiful children and the love of her life. If she isn’t working, she’s writing, running, reading, or enjoying time with her kids, who are growing up way too fast.

The Songs That Brought Me Back is her second novel in The Songs Series, with a third book releasing in the middle of 2019.

Coming December 4th

 

Giveaway Details

Ends 10/5/18

Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use money sent via Paypal or gift codes via Amazon.com. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. This giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

 

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Love and Luck

Posted on by Cathy

This post contains affiliate links.

About Love and Luck

love and luckAddie is visiting Ireland for her aunt’s over-the-top destination wedding, and hoping she can stop thinking about the one horrible thing she did that left her miserable and heartbroken—and threatens her future. But her brother, Ian, isn’t about to let her forget, and his constant needling leads to arguments and even a fistfight between the two once inseparable siblings. Miserable, Addie can’t wait to visit her friend in Italy and leave her brother—and her problems—behind.

So when Addie discovers an unusual guidebook, Ireland for the Heartbroken, hidden in the dusty shelves of the hotel library, she’s able to finally escape her anxious mind and Ian’s criticism.

And then their travel plans change. Suddenly Addie finds herself on a whirlwind tour of the Emerald Isle, trapped in the world’s smallest vehicle with Ian and his admittedly cute, Irish-accented friend Rowan. As the trio journeys over breathtaking green hills, past countless castles, and through a number of fairy-tale forests, Addie hopes her guidebook will heal not only her broken heart, but also her shattered relationship with her brother.

That is if they don’t get completely lost along the way.

My review

I liked Jenna Evans Welch’s first book Love and Gelato when I read it last year. So I was really excited to see a second book by her this year. I’m so glad that I was able to borrow a copy from my local library to read it so soon.

This book is as good as this author’s first! I loved the characters, the plot, the setting (who doesn’t want to go to Ireland???). And the guidebook that Addie reads from is so great! There were so many parts that made me laugh out loud. But at the same time, the book deals with something that really is a serious thing. And it’s a big thing that affects teenager right now. The author did a great job hiding the situation from the reader until the perfect time to reveal what had really happened. I know this sounds vague, but I really don’t want to spoil anything for you.

Addie is the main character in this one. She’s the character that explains everything. The reader sees everything that happens through her eyes. And Addie has a problem. Her problem causes huge fights between her and her brother Ian, leaving them at the bottom of the Cliffs of Moher after a huge fight. My favorite part of this situation is that the whole fight was during their Aunt Mel’s wedding and it’s caught on camera for her TV show.  So funny! 

Addie and Ian’s family are hilarious! I loved the way their mom is constantly trying to “swear,” but she doesn’t do a good job of it. Their brothers are each quirky as well. Ian…well, his quirks are really the whole reason for the story. He has a whole secret life that messes up Addie’s whole vacation. But by the end of things, they’ve fixed their differences and overcome the things they need to. I loved that part. I loved that this shows the young adults that this one is intended for that they can overcome things that need to be. 

This book is so great! I can’t wait for this author’s next book!

I borrowed a copy of Love and Luck from my local library.

Purchase link

Amazon

What to read after Love and Luck

 

#FallingInLove – Rachael Anderson – Spotlight and Giveaway

Posted on by Cathy

 

My Brother’s Bride by Rachael Anderson

Abigail Nash leads a lonely existence. Her mother died giving birth to her, her father’s business dealings took him away more often than not, and her ailing great-aunt, unable to provide much in the way of companionship, was a lack-luster guardian at best. So when her dear friends offered to launch her into London society, it appeared Abby’s life was taking a turn for the better, with suitors and social engagements aplenty. When she marries a proclaimed darling of the ton, it seems she will at last settle into the life of her dreams.

But appearances aren’t always what they seem, and dreams often become disappointments.

Just months into her marriage, Abby finds herself widowed, penniless, increasing, and determined to never hope again. But when her late husband’s brother, the Earl of Brigston, attempts to thaw the numbness surrounding her heart, Abby must decide if she has it in her to risk another chance at happiness, knowing the odds are not in her favor.

Add to Goodreads

 

My Sister’s Intended by Rachael Anderson

For as long as Prudence can remember, it has been understood that her sister will one day wed the eldest son of their nearest neighbor. Such an alliance will benefit both families and bring a great deal of joy to all parents involved.

Unfortunately, Prudence has never been able to feel as joyful. She believes her sister is mad to consider marrying a man she hardly knows, even if he will one day make her a countess. Titles and wealth shouldn’t factor into matters of the heart, and as an aspiring romance novelist, Prudence cannot fathom how anyone could even think of settling for less than love. She certainly wouldn’t, and she doesn’t want her sister to either.

Unable to stand by and do nothing, Prudence sets out to help the awkward couple discover the best in each other with the hope that they will eventually find love. What she neglected to foresee, however, was the possibility that she might fall in love with Lord Knave herself.

AMAZON

Read for FREE with KINDLE UNLIMITED

 

When Prudence lifted her eyes to his again, they sparkled with a challenge. “I was going to save this question until later so as not to shock you from the get-go, but I really do need to know . . . What does it feel like to kiss a woman?”

A large lump formed in Brand’s throat, and his mouth went dry. What the deuce? She had promised not to ask questions that would make him uncomfortable, but already he wanted to flee like a frightened kitten. How could he possibly explain how it felt to kiss a woman?

Brand searched his mind for a way to avoid answering until he heard a snicker escape her lips. She was laughing at him. Him! Hildebrand Ethan Cannon, Viscount Knave—a man at least eight years her senior and a great deal higher in social standing.

Unbelievable.

“You are teasing me,” he said, hoping it was true. If she’d posed the question to make him squirm—and perhaps make him more inclined to answer her other questions—then she wouldn’t be expecting an answer.

She shook her head, still smiling. “I’m afraid not, my lord, although I did find the look of terror on your face vastly amusing.”

“I’m glad I could entertain you.”

“I hope you will be equally glad to instruct me on a few things as well. The first scene in my book will include a kiss, and I have no idea how to describe the experience. Do a woman’s lips feel warm or soft or even moist? Would your pulse quicken? Aside from touch, what other senses are engaged? How would it make you feel and what would you notice when you held a woman in your arms?”

If she thought he’d appeared terror-stricken before, there would be no word for how he looked now. Did she earnestly expect him to answer such questions? Surely even she knew how inappropriate it would be to discuss such things, her being an innocent.

“I cannot say,” he finally muttered.

Her brow puckered in confusion. “Have you never kissed a woman, my lord?”

Brand was sorely tempted to lie and say he had not, but he couldn’t bring himself to do so. Any man of six-and-twenty who had never experienced a kiss would be laughed out of his manhood. Women were expected to remain innocent until married. Men were not.

“Yes, I have kissed a woman,” he finally admitted, “but I have no intention of discussing any of the details with you.”

“Why not?” she asked, her large brown eyes blinking at him curiously. “Would you rather I invent the information?”

“Yes.”

She obviously didn’t appreciate his retort because she scowled. “Can you not tell me at least a little?”

“No.”

“Why?”

“Because a kiss could never be described with any sort of accuracy, at least not by me. It involves too many feelings and sensations and complexities of thought. If you wish to know what a kiss feels like, you’ll have to experience it for yourself.”

Too late, Brand realized his mistake. Her expression became contemplative, as though she was actually considering doing just that. Good gads, had he really just encouraged an innocent young woman to go hunting for a kiss? Who would she ask? A groom? Stablehand? The next peddler that came to town?

“I think you are right,” she said at last. “I really must experience a kiss for myself if I am to describe it with any sort of accuracy.” She blinked up at him with that innocent expression again. “Will you kiss me Lord Knave? No, how silly of me. You are to marry my sister, so that would never do.” She pursed her lips for a moment before musing, “Perhaps one of the footmen would be kind enough to show me how it’s done.”

Kind enough? Brand could think of a great many reasons a footman would comply with such a request, and kindness did not factor into any of them. Brand would kiss her himself before he allowed a footman near her.

He rubbed the bridge of his nose, feeling a headache coming on. “Perhaps I can try to explain what it feels like after all.” Better that than having her chase after a footman.

“But you only just said you couldn’t do it justice,” she pointed out. “I realize I sound dreadfully forward, but I really must know, and experience is the best teacher, is it not?”

“No, it isn’t,” he lied. “And you are not going to kiss a footman.”

“Then who? Felix or Lionel, perhaps? I’m fairly certain I can convince one of them to do it, if given the opportunity. The question is how to go about it?”

It was plain to see by the firm set of her jaw that she would not rest until she had experienced a kiss of her own. She didn’t seem to care who did the deed, only that the man did a thorough job of it. A quick peck on the lips wouldn’t satisfy her curiosities.

“Perhaps I could send a note to Felix and ask him to call on me,” she continued to muse. “We could take a stroll through the maze in the gardens. There is a hidden alcove on the south side, which could be quite perfect. We would have to evade Ruth, obviously, but—”

“Devil take it,” Brand growled as he pulled her to him. Her quick intake of breath was the only sound she made before his mouth covered hers.

 

“I got seriously hooked on this book right from the first glance. Everything in this story is so beautiful and done so perfectly. The cover is stunning, the blurb intriguing and the story flow expertly done.” –NjKinny’s World of Books & Stuff

“The moment I set eyes on this cover page, I knew I am going to love this cute love story. Delightfully crafted with endearing characters this is an ongoing tale of fun, love and some hard decisions. –Finitha J., Know Your Books Blog

“My Sister’s Intended is my FAVORITE kind of book to read. It is the kind of story I will save in my Kindle forever so I can re-read again and again. What makes this story so good? Everything! This book is pure perfection.” –Nicole, Christian Fiction Girl Blog.

“WOW. I reserve five stars for books that blow me away, and this has become my newest addition! What a delight to discover a gem like this.” –Mary, Goodreads.com

 

Author Rachael Anderson

A USA Today bestselling author, Rachael Anderson is the mother of four and is pretty good at breaking up fights, or at least sending guilty parties to their rooms. She can’t sing, doesn’t dance, and despises tragedies. But she recently figured out how yeast works and can now make homemade bread, which she is really good at eating.

 

 

 

Giveaway Details

Ends 10/5/18

Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use money sent via Paypal or gift codes via Amazon.com. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. This giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

 

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Kill the Beast – Blog Tour

Posted on by Cathy

This post contains affiliate links.

About Kill the Beast

kill the beastRo remembers the castle before. Before the gates closed. Before silence overtook the kingdom. Before the castle disappeared. Now it shimmers to life one night a year, seen by her alone.

Once a lady, now a huntress, Ro does what it takes to survive—just like the rest of the kingdom plunged into despair never before known. But a beast has overtaken the castle. A beast that killed the prince and holds the castle and kingdom captive in his cruel power. A beast Ro has been hired to kill. Thankful the mystery of the prince’s disappearance has been solved, furious the magical creature has killed her hero, Ro eagerly accepts the job to end him. But things are not as they seem.

Trapped in the castle, a prisoner alongside the beast, Ro wonders what she should fear most: the beast, the magic that holds them both captive, or the one who hired her to kill the beast.

A Beauty and the Beast retelling

My review

I love a good fairy tale retelling. And this is a good one! 

Let’s start with the characters. I LOVED Ro! She’s a young woman who is doing her very best to care for her family, especially her younger sister in a France where people are starving. Ro – her full name is Rosette – is a huntress. And she’s the only one who can see the palace appear one day every year. Crazy! As soon as she sees it appear, she makes her way inside. It’s like the palace is just waiting for her. She has no problem entering. But as soon as she enters, the problems start. 

One thing I really loved about this one was the way you saw most of the story through Ro’s eyes. There were a few times you could see things through the beast’s eyes. And the flashback scene was so cool. The reader sees things through several perspectives giving a very full picture of what had happened in the past. 

I also really loved that this one was not predictable. At. All. I had no idea how it was going to end, it ended so differently from what I thought. The palace and everything in it take so many twists and turns, it was a little crazy to try to keep up with. 

This one is a perfect book to hand to your teenager. She’ll love it and so will you! I loved every minute of reading this one and I can’t wait for the sequel! 

I was sent a copy of Kill the Beast as a gift from the author. All opinions are my own.

Purchase link

Amazon

About the author

Michele Israel Harper spends her days as a work-at-home mom and her nights typing away furiously on her laptop. Sleep? Sometimes… She has her Bachelor of Arts in history, is slightly obsessed with all things French—including Jeanne d’Arc and La Belle et la Bête—and loves curling up with a good book more than just about anything else. Author of Wisdom & Folly: Sisters, Zombie Takeover, Beast Hunter, and Kill the Beast, Michele prays her involvement in writing, editing, and publishing will touch many lives in the years to come.

Author links

Website – Instagram – Facebook – Twitter – Pinterest – Google+ – Goodreads – Amazon

What to read after Kill the Beast

 

 

#FallingInLove – Author Kimberly Montpetit – Spotlight and Giveaway

Posted on by Cathy

The Owner’s Secret: A Secret Billionaire Romance by Kimberley Montpetit

A brutal storm. A cryptic message. A life changed . . . forever.

Melody de Leon’s cozy New Orleans bookstore is her pride and joy – until a violent hurricane sweeps it all away. Forced to flee the storm by boat with her ailing grandmother, she wonders how she will ever pick up the pieces of this disaster.

Then, in a fevered state, her grandmother utters a cryptic message that sets Melody on the quest of a lifetime: “Go to White Castle.”

With nothing left to lose, Melody seeks out the old mansion – a beautiful Southern relic haunted by secrets. Once there, she finds Britt Mandeville, the handsome and charming White Castle caretaker.

Sparks fly, but any hopes of a relationship between them are dashed when she discovers that Britt is already spoken for.

When Melody stumbles across a strange 60-year-old photograph in the house, she is determined to find answers – and the shocking revelations and strange twists of fate lead her right back to Britt.

Can she put all the pieces of the puzzle together, or will family secrets and true love be lost to her forever?

Get it Now on AMAZON

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Add to your Goodreads Shelf

 

#1 Excerpt

“Before I forget,” Britt said, turning around on the threshold. “Here’s a key to your room. You can lock the door from inside and feel perfectly safe.”
When he handed over the old-fashioned key, Melody gave him a wan smile. “I think you are a mind-reader, sir. Thank you.”
Britt crossed the corridor toward the staircase and descended, giving her a quick glance over his shoulder.
Biting at her lips, Melody closed the door lest he think she was staring at him—even though she was staring.
How did a stunning man like Britt Mandeville become a caretaker of an old house, gardening, cooking, and repairing fences? Instead, he looked like a model for a fashion magazine.
Once, again, Melody wondered why her grandmother had insisted she come to White Castle.
Britt Mandeville was an enigma and she was full of questions about the man, but her grandmother’s almost desperate plea for her presence at this strange Southern mansion was the biggest mystery of all.

#2 Excerpt

Knocking with her fist, Melody called out, “Mr. Mandeville, can you help me open the door?”
She shoved against the heavy doors one more time in case he didn’t hear her—at the same moment the massive front door popped open and she fell across the threshold, tumbling against the tall, solid caretaker. Literally falling into his arms.
“Oh!” she cried out, her face growing hot when Britt Mandeville threw his arms around her so she didn’t end up flat on her face. “I’m sorry. I couldn’t get the door open. I didn’t mean to—” she stopped, his face close—too close.
A rush of sensations came over her. Melody tried not to think about the man’s hard muscles underneath the soft flannel shirt he was wearing, or his sandpaper jaw, or the pair of amazing lips so close to hers—when she had practically knocked her face into his at the moment they collided.
“You’re fine now,” Britt said, sliding his hands along her arms as he bent to look into her face. “You okay?”
“Yep. I’m fine. Perfectly fine.” Except for her racing heart and a pounding in her ears, she was calm as a summer’s morning.

 

“The Owner’s Secret had me hooked from the very beginning. Britt Mandeville is a character who is hard to forget. Melody tries to, but all of Britt’s gentlemanly ways, and his devastatingly good looks are not helping. With the mystery of White Castle and her grandmother urging her to go there for refuge after the hurricane, Melody finds herself drawn to Britt and the strange memories surrounding the beautiful plantation mansion. I loved the mystery, the history of the southern plantation, the fun literary references, but especially the friendship and swoony romance between Britt and Melody. I didn’t want to set the book down, even after I had finished the last page. Clean and swoony romance readers alike, this is one book you’ll not want to miss!”

 

The Owner’s Secret is just 99 cents on September 17th

 

The Neighbor’s Secret is FREE on September 17th

 

Author Kimberley Montpetit

When she was in Paris, Kimberley Montpetit spent most of her souvenir money at the La Patisserie shops with their beautiful and delicious pastries. She grew up in the fabulous city of San Francisco, loves all things chocolate, and now lives in a small town along the Rio Grande with her engineer husband and three sons.

She once stayed in the haunted tower room at Borthwick Castle in Scotland and didn’t sleep a wink, sailed the Seine in Paris, rode a camel in the ancient world wonder of Petra, shopped the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, and spent the night in an old Communist hotel in Bulgaria.

Kimberley also writes Award-winning Middle-Grade novels with Scholastic and epic Young Adult novels with Harpercollins under the name, Kimberley Griffiths Little.

 

Giveaway Details

Ends 10/8/18

Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use money sent via Paypal or gift codes via Amazon.com. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. This giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

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Family Travel – Favorite Friday

Posted on by Cathy

Hey guys, it’s Friday! Finally! 

Did you know I write articles for a family travel blog? I write for Tips for Family Trips. Usually an article a month. This month I’m talking about the trip our family took to Seattle. 

Our family loves to travel together. It’s such a bonding experience and a huge source for family memories. There aren’t many days that we don’t talk about something travel related. Whether it’s something about where we want to go next, or laughing about something that happened on one of our trips.

What do you think about family travel? Is it something that’s a big thing for your family? Or something that you don’t do? Do you want to do more of it? Where are you going next???? That’s the big question for our family. And it’s one that hasn’t been answered yet. You can leave me a comment here answering these questions or checkout my Facebook or Instagram and leave the answer there. 

I’d be really curious to see just where everyone is planning to go. Maybe we’ll go there next.

#FallingInLove – Author Donna Hatch – Spotlight and Giveaway

Posted on by Cathy

 

The Stranger She Married by Donna Hatch

When her parents and twin brother die within weeks of each other, Alicia and her younger sister are left in the hands of an uncle who has brought them all to financial and social ruin. Desperate to save her family from debtor’s prison, Alicia vows to marry the first wealthy man to propose. She meets the dashing Lord Amesbury, and her heart whispers that this is the man she is destined to love, but his tainted past may forever stand in their way. Her choices in potential husbands narrow to either a scarred cripple with the heart of a poet, or a handsome rake with a deadly secret.

Cole Amesbury is tormented by his own ghosts, and believes he is beyond redemption, yet he cannot deny his attraction for the girl whose genuine goodness touches the heart he’d thought long dead. He fears the scars in his soul cut so deeply that he may never be able to offer Alicia a love that is true. When yet another bizarre mishap threatens her life, Alicia suspects the seemingly unrelated accidents that have plagued her loved ones are actually a killer’s attempt to exterminate every member of her family. Despite the threat looming over her, learning to love the stranger she married may pose the greatest danger to her heart. And Cole must protect Alicia from the killer who has been exterminating her family before she is the next target.

This romantic story of loss and betrayal, forgiveness and redemption, and strangers marrying, will leave you laughing, crying, and swooning. Sprinkled liberally with suspense, mystery, and heart-melting kisses, this is not your ordinary historical tale of an arranged marriage nor of redeeming the rakes. Fans of Victorian and Regency Eras as well as those seeking clean and wholesome romance with plenty of chemistry, not to mention the redemptive power of love, will love this story!

Dance with a duke, outwit pirates, save a kingdom, and fall in love. Believe in happily ever after.

Get your copy on AMAZON

Read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited

Add to Goodreads

 

Mrs. Hancock beamed as Alicia reached her side, put an arm around Alicia, and brought her into their circle. “Miss Alicia Palmer, allow me to introduce Lord Amesbury.”

Even more devastating up close, Lord Amesbury turned to Alicia. His piercing blue eyes threatened the strength in her knees. Though taller than most ladies, Alicia still had to look up to meet his gaze. No other color existed in those eyes; no green or gray, only deep, dark blue, like the fathomless depths of the ocean.

All the other men she had met lately, namely those her uncle insisted she consider for a husband, had taken careful note of her figure. But this gentleman only looked into her eyes. Very deeply.

Lord Amesbury inclined his head. “Miss Palmer.” His resonant, bass voice touched her very soul.

Alicia met his frank gaze and a sensation she did not quite understand stirred within her until breathing became a conscious effort. Mrs. Hancock discreetly coughed, and Alicia realized she’d been locked in eye contact with the Viscount much longer than appropriate.

Unable to pull her eyes away, Alicia sank into a curtsey. “My lord.”

No longer merely polite, his smile broadened, warmed, transforming an already handsome face into a perfectly stunning visage. Sensuality radiated off him, not in a manner that left her feeling threatened, but in a way that left her breathless for more. More of what, she did not know. But she wanted to find out.

“Miss Palmer,” Lord Amesbury said, “May I have the next dance?”

Alicia blinked. She looked back at Elizabeth who smiled encouragingly. Mrs. Hancock also smiled and nodded, but a touch of disappointment tainted her approval, reminding Alicia the dear lady had hoped her own daughter would attract the attention of the very eligible Lord Amesbury. That he’d singled out Alicia seemed a dream.

She squelched all hope that she might hold his interest. Surely only politeness motivated him to dance with the plainest girl first. He’d soon turn his attention to the beautiful ladies.

Finding her voice, Alicia replied, “I would be delighted, my lord.”

As the final notes of the current dance ended and the next began, Lord Amesbury offered his arm. She took it, an unfamiliar quiver beginning in her stomach. The art of dancing, she found as the set began, had not abandoned her as completely as her wits. The handsome viscount danced with athletic grace, his attention focused upon her. The warmth of his hand seeped through their kidskin gloves. He held her gently, firmly.

A playful glint touched his sapphire eyes. “I must warn you. Now that we’ve danced, my aunt will take it upon herself to ask you your opinion of me. She will most certainly interrogate me regarding you.”

She met those probing eyes and her mouth curved. “Oh? Has your aunt become your self-proclaimed matchmaker?”

A wry smile touched his lips. “Of course. I’m thirty and not yet married. She feels it her duty to ensure I produce an heir before I’m too old. Despite my efforts to delay that obligation, she persists.”

Alicia nodded, her smile deepening at his indelicate statement. “That is a dilemma.”

“Since you and I have only just met, it will be difficult to offer a fair assessment of your character. And if I say anything positive about you, she’ll plan the wedding.” His smile brightened, lighting up his stunning face.

Alicia missed her step. Even while dancing with the very handsome Duke of Suttenberg two Seasons ago, such a keen attraction for a man had never overcome her as it did tonight. Yet she was nearly twenty, for heaven’s sake, not a missish schoolgirl!

“Your aunt is a strong woman and a kind lady, my lord. I am sure you can reason with her.”

“I suppose she possesses a good heart deep, deep down inside, but be truthful; she’s sharp-tongued and outspoken.”

She laughed and then clapped her hand over her mouth. “My lord! She might hear you.”

He chuckled. “Fear not. We needle each other as frequently as possible. I say worse things to her face. I enjoy watching her squirm and plot a counter- attack.”

That reminded her of the playful banter she shared with her cousin Robert. “I don’t recall her ever mentioning you, my lord.”

His smile turned self-deprecating. “I’m one of those relations no one mentions.”

“The intrigue held me spellbound until the very end and it was an unexpected ending. I will definitely be looking for more…”– Excerpt from Night Owl Romance

“I don’t think I have ever read dialog that is quite so fresh, varied and robust to the point that it is not only woven seamlessly into the plot, but it almost becomes a living, breathing thing in itself.” -excerpt from Hope Chest Reviews

” No one creates chemistry between Regency Historical characters better than Donna Hatch. If you want a “sweet” read, but with lots of sizzle, you have to read one of her books.” ~ Carol A. Spradling

 

Author Donna Hatch

Best-selling author of Regency Historical Romances, Donna Hatch is a hopeful romantic and adventurer at heart. Donna sings and plays the harp, and loves to ballroom dance. Her family, including six children, recently left their native Arizona for the west coast of the US. No matter where they live, she and her husband of over twenty years are living proof that there truly is a happily ever after.

 

Giveaway Details

$25 Amazon Gift Code or $25 in Paypal Cash

Ends 10/5/18

Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use money sent via Paypal or gift codes via Amazon.com. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. This giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
 

Ring on Her Finger

Posted on by Cathy

This post contains affiliate links.

About Ring on Her Finger

ring on her fingerWhat happened in Vegas should stay there, not follow Amanda home wedded to the man who broke her heart.

After celebrating college graduation with her friends in Las Vegas, Amanda St. Claire wakes up with a terrible hangover and a ring on her finger. Her day gets worse when she finds out she’s married to rich playboy Blake Worthington – the guy she has loathed the past four years. Amanda convinces Blake to legally terminate the marriage and they both return home like nothing ever happened. That is, until Blake shows up on her doorstep and Amanda has to come clean with her family.

Together for better or worse while the legalities are cleared, Amanda reluctantly plays along, but then the unthinkable happens – she finds herself falling in love with Blake. Can they overcome the past? Or will it end their future before it even starts?

My review

I really loved the way Ring on Her Finger opens. Amanda finds herself in a hotel room in Las Vegas that wasn’t hers. She had very obviously gotten married. The problem being Amanda has no memory of it. And she’s married the man she’s spent the last four years believing was the worst man alive. Worst. Day. EVER!

I liked Amanda’s character. She’s got plans and she’s going to make them happen. And she won’t let anything, not even a new marriage stand in her way. One thing about her though is that she doesn’t forgive easily. She tends to hold on to hurts for a really long time. That’s what happened with her and Blake. Blake did something that hurt her freshman year and she hasn’t forgiven him. So when she wakes up married to him, that’s about the worst thing she could have imagined. I loved Amanda’s family. Even when they found out what she had done in Vegas (that’s one of my favorite scenes in this book, by the way) they love and accept her. And they’re able to love and accept Blake as well.

Blake’s family is another story. His family is wealthy. But they seem cold and unkind for much of the book. Especially to Blake. But when they meet Amanda, wow! They were horrible! 

Blake is a great guy. I liked the way he was trying to make up for everything that Amanda had thought he had done to her. He even works in an animal shelter, in some pretty gross conditions, without complaint. All to try to make enough to get divorced. And divorce was the very last thing he wanted. 

I loved that the plot of this book is through both Amanda and Blake’s eyes. The reader knows things about both characters that they don’t know themselves. And I have to say, the ending of this one is fantastic! I loved everything about this one! Go check it out for yourself!

I was sent an e-copy of this Ring on Her Finger as a gift from the author. All opinions are my own.

Purchase link

Amazon

What to read after Ring on Her Finger

 

#FallingInLove – Delaney Cameron – Author Spotlight and Giveaway

Posted on by Cathy

Team Mom by Delaney Cameron

Julie’s calm life is thrown a curve ball when her brother arrives the night before his seven-month deployment asking her to take care of his son. As a preschool teacher, she’s used to dealing with toddlers, not nine-year-olds. Noting her nephew’s interest in baseball, Julie signs him up for little league. She’s anything but thrilled to find out that his coach is a celebrity.

Eric returned to St Marys to lick his wounds and start over. But even in his hometown, he’s known more for his unfortunate appearance on a reality dating show than for his seven years in the major leagues. All he has to show for that poor decision is an ex-wife and a broken heart.

Julie’s obvious disapproval makes her the perfect choice for his team mom. If she doesn’t like him, she won’t cause any problems. But will that be enough to keep his growing interest in her in check? And as Julie’s preconceived notions about sports figures slowly unravel, will she be able to resist the man behind the public persona?

 

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Eric glanced doubtfully at his fitted shirt and pants. If he’d been going to the couple’s shower alone, he would have settled for comfort and worn jeans. The fact that he’d sought his brother’s opinion on what to wear was an admission of his level of anxiety. Julie had agreed to come with him. Was it wrong to want to look nice for her sake?

The jarring sound of the gate buzzer jolted him out of his pensive reverie. After making sure Delilah had fresh water, he grabbed the wrapped box off the table and went out on the porch to wait. Jordan jumped out of the car and sprinted over to where he stood.

“Hey, Coach Gibson. I brought some of my Xbox games. I hope that’s okay.”

“That’s fine. You can go on in. Matt’s waiting on you.”

When Eric looked back in Julie’s direction, the greeting on his lips was forgotten. He swallowed once and then again as he watched her get something out of the backseat. The tiny straps and fitted bodice of her dress left most of her lovely shoulders and neck bare while the wide, flirty skirt hinted at nicely shaped legs.How was he going to behave with her looking like that?

“How have you not kissed her yet?” a teasing voice asked from behind him.

Did kissing her neck count for anything? Probably not in Matt’s view of the world. “How do you know I haven’t?” he muttered.

Matt snorted dismissively. “Because if you had, you wouldn’t be staring at her like a starving man waiting for the buffet to open.”

“Would you lower your voice?”

Not bothering to take his brother’s advice, Matt continued. “I approve, by the way. She’s just what you need.”

“Can we talk about this later?”

“Definitely. I want a full report of today’s events.”

Eric turned a laugh into a cough. “Get in the house before I throw you in there.”

“I’m going, sweet thing.”

“So help me, Matt, if you say another word…”

The arrival of Julie brought this conversation to an abrupt end.

“Hey, guys. Are we ready for this?” she asked with a smile.

“I think so,” Eric said.

“You kids have fun,” threw in Matt, ignoring his brother’s frown. “Don’t worry about Jordan. We’ll be fine.”

“You’ve got my number, right?” asked Julie.

“Sure do. See you later.”

Eric shook his head as he watched Matt enter the house and close the door. “He gets worse every day. Got everything you need?”

“Yes, sir.”

He grinned. “In that case, I think we should get going.” Once they were on their way, he glanced in her direction. “You look lovely. You remind me of a summer garden in that dress.”

“Thank you. You look like an ad for Ralph Lauren.”

“I’ve never seen any. Is that a compliment?”

“Definitely.”

“Then I thank you, too. I forgot to warn you about Thomas. He’s only slightly more mature than Matt, and neither of them knows the meaning of the word discretion. They speak first and worry about the consequences later.”

“I’ve got a brother, remember. I know how these things work. What did you get the happy couple?”

“A four-slice toaster. It’s sort of a private joke. That’s what Thomas got me as a wedding gift. I thought I’d return the favor.”

“I keep forgetting that you’ve already done this.”

Eric wished he could forget. He’d give anything to wipe out the memories of his marriage. “What did you get them?”

“Nothing as exciting as a toaster. I got bathroom towels. You can never have enough towels.”

Towels were about the only thing Sydney didn’t fight him over. To hear her talk, he would have left her destitute if he could have found a legal way to do it. In the end, he got tired of the endless arguments. What use did he have for all those things they’d bought together? The only memories they carried were bad ones. He was better off without them.

“Good idea. As far as the games go, if there’s something you don’t want to do, let me know. I’m all for being a good sport, but not at the expense of making you uncomfortable.”

“The same goes for you.”

He cast her a teasing glance. “I don’t embarrass easily, and to be honest, I can’t think of a single game I wouldn’t be willing to play with you.”

Her eyes fell to her lap. “I’m starting to think you say things just so you can see me blush.”

Eric laughed. “You do it so beautifully; I can’t resist.”

 

“Clean romance, but oh, those kisses sizzle. Great interaction between the brothers–they’ll make you smile. I would recommend this book and read more by this author.”

 

“I loved this story, it was sweet, clean, and most of all it was just a straight forward book, without conflicts and huge misunderstandings you usually get in a romance book. The slow building romance was a pleasant surprise, too. Little Jordan was so precious, and let’s face it….I’ve always be a sucker when it comes to animals and kids. I loved the playful interaction between the two brothers, Eric and Matt. They were hysterical, without trying to be. Just seemed so natural and real, but so did the relationship between Julie and Eric. I was so impressed that I just downloaded the next book in the series.”

“Just a lovely story. A heroine you can adore, a hero you can fall for and a love story you can get lost in. Well written. No cheesy catastrophes. Clean and well worth the read.”
Excerpt:

 

 

Author Delaney Cameron

I’m a Georgia girl at heart if not by birth. I love to read, watch college football, and spend time with my husband. I’m a hopeless romantic so there will always be a happily ever after in my stories. I also like to write about second chances because love doesn’t always work out the first time.

My books are sweet romances set in both contemporary and regency settings featuring stories about the journey to love, from that first meeting to the point where two people know their hearts are no longer their own. My characters aren’t perfect. They make mistakes and have faults like the rest of us. They learn the sometimes painful truth that the path to love isn’t always smooth, but it’s a road worth traveling.

 

 

Giveaway Details

$25 Amazon Gift Code or $25 in PayPal Cash

Ends 10/5/18

Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use money sent via Paypal or gift codes via Amazon.com. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. This giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

a Rafflecopter giveaway