Tuesday, January 30, 2018

Romance is in the Air: A Celebration of Clean Romance $100 Kick Off Giveaway!



– Romance is in the Air –

A Month-Long Celebration of Clean Romance

– February 2018 –




I'm so excited to be participating in the Romance is in the Air celebration! I love reading clean romance and recommendations are crucial to know what fits in the genre.

Starting February 1st and running through the entire month of February we will be showcasing 14 fabulous authors. There will be 15 different giveaways, free e-books and lots of great deals on books!
We’re starting off with a $100 Kick-Off Giveaway where one lucky winner will receive a $100 Amazon Gift Code or $100 in Paypal Cash!
Check out this great list of authors we will be spotlighting . . .





Kimberley Montpetit



Be sure to stop by each week during February to learn about these amazing authors. You definitely don’t want to miss out on all the giveaways! To be sure you never miss a post subscribe to I Am A Reader’s Mailing List.









Giveaway Details


$100 in Paypal Cash or a $100 Amazon.com eGift Card





Monday, January 29, 2018

1 Day SALE, Excerpt & Giveaway: The Ghost Groom by Jennifer Youngblood

 



The Ghost Groom by Jennifer Youngblood  

A tough football player, a devoted sister, and the most difficult choice of all … After a long, painful search that involved legions of duds, Ariana Sanchez, fitness guru and gym owner, finally meets the perfect guy when she least expects it. Not only can Rennen tear up the dance floor, but he has these adorable blonde curls and compelling green eyes, specked with gold. When Ariana’s around him she feels oh, so alive! And the best part is that he’s a perfect gentleman and easy to talk to. Their first encounter leaves Ariana floating on air, thinking there’s hope for her love life after all … until she learns that Rennen is the celebrated rookie who’s taking her brother’s position as starting running back for the Titans. Too bad she’s totally loyal to her brother and has to hate him now! Rennen Bradley, the Ghost, has worked long and hard to get the opportunity to shine as the starting running back. Sure, he feels bad that Ace Sanchez was injured and that he’s taking his place on the team, but that’s how the game rolls. Rennen never expects to fall for Ariana, and it throws him for a loop when he realizes she’s Ace’s sister. But Rennen’s not going to let a simple complication like that come between him and the woman of his dreams. He understands Ariana’s reservations—heck, even admires her loyalty to her brother. But Rennen’s used to waging uphill battles. Abandoned as a child, Rennen learned a long time ago that you have to fight tooth and nail for anything you want in this life. And he wants Ariana, heart, body, and soul! Caught between loyalty and love, will Ariana choose her family or her heart?


    


Excerpt 

This was getting ridiculous. Justin was more handsy than an octopus. “Stop touching me,” Ariana warned. He laughed. “Come on, babe. Don’t be so stiff. You know you like it.” “No, I don’t like it,” she countered. “No one likes being pawed.” Revulsion churned in her gut as his eyes went to her chest. An incredulous laugh bubbled in her throat. Was he really ogling her chest, right here in front of her? What a jerk! As soon as she got home, she was going to contact Heart to Heart and put in a complaint. They really should be more diligent in making sure people were truthful in their profiles. Justin was nothing like he’d pretended to be, and it was obvious he was only after one thing … and it wasn’t a long-term relationship. She tensed, clenching her fists. “Hey, buddy. My face is up here.” He snorted out a chortle. “Yeah, but you’ve got something else going on down there. For a little girl, you’ve got a nice rack.” She froze amidst the dancing couples surrounding them. “What did you just say to me?” He laughed. “You heard me. Lighten up.” He grabbed her waist with an iron grip. “I thought Latin girls were supposed to be loose.” Her hand balled into a fist, and she thought about how it would feel to knock him across the floor. “I’m going to give you a half a second to let go of me.” He grunted in amusement. “Make me.” Heat splintered up her neck, making her feel like her head would split in two. Then cool precision took over as she calculated Justin’s height and weight. The bigger they are … the harder they fall. From the corner of her eye, she saw the blonde guy from earlier approach. “Is everything okay here?” he asked, his body taut, like he was ready to pounce. “Buzz off,” Justin grumbled. Letting loose a string of curse words. “Strike three,” Ariana muttered. She shot her arm straight up in a swift motion where it connected with Justin’s neck, right under his jaw line. Then she brought her arm back down, using her weight to knock him off his feet where he landed on his back with a heavy thud. Murmurs rippled through the couples surrounding them as they backed away. Justin gurgled, clutching his neck, a dazed look in his eyes. Ariana’s hands flew to her hips. “Just because I’m Latin does not make me easy!” Claps broke out around her. “That’s right,” a few of the women agreed. “Dirt bag,” one woman muttered, shooting Justin a death glare. As Justin stumbled to his feet, Ariana planted herself in a battle stance, ready to do more damage if necessary. Her adrenaline was going, and she’d make short work of him, putting her training to good use. But luckily for Justin, he ducked his head and scuttled away. “That has got to be the most awesome thing I’ve ever seen.” She turned to the blonde guy who was looking at her in astonishment, admiration shining in his eyes. “Thanks. I appreciate you trying to help.” He shoved his hands in his pockets, rocking forward on the balls of his feet. “Yeah, I was trying to rescue you from that creep … not that you needed my help.” Ariana’s blood was pumping so ferociously that she felt dizzy. He gave her a concerned look. “Are you okay?” A wan smile tipped her lips as she ran a hand through her hair. “Yeah, I guess that date didn’t go as planned.” He chuckled. “Life rarely does.” He held her gaze, and she felt the same buzz she’d experienced earlier. Everything around them slowed, and it was just the two of them. His voice was deeper than she imagined, with a husky edge. Her eyes traced the definition of the muscles underneath his form-fitting t-shirt. Heat fanned her face when she saw the flicker of amusement that turned his hazel-green eyes a honey-gold. He’d caught her checking him out. She jerked her eyes to his face, making a mental note to keep her focus there. He had a fine layer of scruff, emphasizing the lean line of his jaw. She swallowed, feeling she was staring at the real-life version of Thor and Captain America, all rolled into one. Captain Thor. Or Goldie Locks because of his thick tangles of beautiful curls. People around them resumed dancing, but the two of them just stood there. Ariana knew she should start dancing … or do something to break the tension, but she couldn’t get her body to cooperate. He cleared his throat, a grin washing over his face. “Um, maybe we should get off the dance floor.” “Oh, yeah.” She propelled her feet into action. Her mind whirled, going through all that had just happened. She could hardly believe he’d been the one to offer help. When they got to the side, he motioned to an empty table. “Would you like to sit down?” Her voice sounded unnaturally high and screechy in her ears. “Sure.” He pulled out a chair for her and helped her get seated. Wow. Captain Thor was a gentleman to the nth degree. A startling contrast to Justin. As they sat there, staring across the table at each other, Ariana scrambled for something halfway intelligent to say. “Thanks again. You’re a great dancer,” she blurted. Sheesh. She was making an idiot out of herself. Normally she was calm and cool around men, always knowing the right thing to say. But it seemed her mouth had disconnected from her brain. His lips curved into a radiant smile, causing the edges of his eyes to crease. “Thanks. You’re pretty good yourself.” The compliment caught her off guard, sending warm ripples cascading through her. He’d been watching her too. It was good to know the attraction went both ways. He leaned forward. “Was that guy your boyfriend?” She wrinkled her nose. “Heck no!” She laughed. “We’d never met in person before tonight. We were matched on a dating app.” His eyebrows shot up in surprise. “Really?” She felt foolish and a little desperate for resorting to a dating app. Her explanation gushed out. “It’s an app where people in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area can connect. You know, people with similar interests.” She shrugged. “It seemed like a good idea … in theory.” She scowled, darkness gathering inside her. “Of course, I should’ve known better than to go out with a football coach. Note to self … don’t date anymore coaches or football players. Their egos are the size of a whale, their brains the size of a pea, from one too many hits on the field.” He laughed. “That’s a bit of a blanket statement.” Her face fell. “Don’t tell me, you’re a football player.” Of course he was. That would be just her luck. An easy grin stole over his lips. “Well, if I were, I certainly wouldn’t admit it now.” She pursed her lips together, assessing him. He didn’t seem bothered by her scrutiny. He just sat there, patiently enduring it. “No, you’re not a football player,” she finally said. “I don’t know what you are, but you’re far too intelligent to play football.” He cocked his head. “So, all football players are stupid? Is that what you’re saying?” “Nope. Not all of them. Just about ninety percent.” “So only ten percent are intelligent.” He grinned. “See, I can do math.” The teasing tone of his voice caused her to smile. “That’s good to know.” He tsked his tongue. “What turned you against football players?” “Aside from Justin?” She lifted an eyebrow, waiting for him to respond. “Yep, aside from him. I mean, he was a douche bag, but the bite in your voice tells me there’s more.” When her brother Ace first started playing pro ball, Ariana went out with a few players on the team. After about the sixth disaster, she swore off football players altogether. “Experience,” she finally said. Interest lit his eyes. “Care to elaborate?” “Not really,” she said loudly, then felt like she was yelling when the music suddenly stopped. They turned their attention to the guy on stage holding the microphone. “Folks, we’ve got a fun evening lined up, it’s karaoke night!” He pumped a fist in the air as the crowd cheered. Ariana’s heart dropped. Oh, no! The emcee looked down at the sheet of paper in his hand. “To start, we have a duet by Ariana and Justin.” Captain Thor looked at her. “Is everything okay?” “Not really.” She groaned. “I’m Ariana.” 



   Alternate Ending - After reading The Ghost Groom be sure to download and read the FREE alternate ending written by Cami Checketts & Taylor Hart. 


$25 Release Day Giveaway Ends March 5, 2018 





E-book series SALE and GIVEAWAY: The Brew Ha Ha Box Set by Bria Quinlan



I've heard this series is super fun and I'm looking forward to reading it! Grab the first four books for only 99 cents!!! Crazy deal! 

The author also gave me a digital copy of the box set to give away, so enter to win that below! Good luck!

http://www.amazon.comhttp://www.amazon.comhttp://www.barnesandnoble.comhttp://www.goodreads.com

Synopsis

THE LAST SINGLE GIRL
The internet gave Sarah her Kate Spade bag and that apartment outside Washington Square. Now maybe it can find her Mr. Right. Internet dating....What could possibly go wrong?

WORTH THE FALL
When Kasey loses her job, her apartment, and her guy in one day she just wants to start a new life and be a guy-free-zone. But, when one thing after another goes wrong, Mr. Right might be the one good thing worth taking a chance on.

THE CATCHING KIND
Hailey thought she was worth more than a straight flush until her agent loses her in a bet. Now she’s stuck being the fake girl-next-door beard for America’s Sexiest Athlete. Are arrogance and good looks a match for this stubborn Quirky Girl?

THE PROPOSING KIND.
Connor may have proposed. Or maybe not.
Now it's up to Hailey and her Brew Crew girls figure it all out. Ridiculousness, shenanigans, arguments, and reconciliations ensue…because, Quirky Girl Power!

But at the end of it all, is Hailey ready to marry America’s Most Eligible Athlete or is time to call a delay on that particular play?


Giveaway




Book Blitz, Excerpt & Giveaway: Mistress Grim by Jane Redd


On tour with Prism Book Tours

http://amzn.to/2E9JOWwMistress Grim
by Jane Redd
Upper YA Gothic Romance
Paperback & ebook, 180 pages
December 30th 2017 by Mirror Press
GoodreadsAmazonBarnes & Noble

From USA Today bestselling author Jane Redd, comes MISTRESS GRIM:

The Grim Reaper has been collecting souls of the dead for hundreds of years, but even the Master of Death has to pass on his reign. Unfortunately, his progeny is not quite ready to replace him.

Cora Grim, daughter of the Grim Reaper, is suddenly thrust into her father’s role. Leaving the Underworld on her own to bring back the dead souls, she discovers that the Master of Death neglected to tell her one thing. She can still fall in love.

Excerpt

Chapter One

I have known from the day of my seventh birthday that I was in training as the harbinger of death. For you see, my father is the Grim Reaper.

“Cora,” he told me when I was but a child of seven. “One day, you will rule the Underworld. One day, you will replace me.”

I stared up at him, my giant of a father with his broad shoulders, powerful arms, and elegant fingers with their black nails. He wore his long, dark hair tied back from his angular face so that his black, black eyes seemed like hollow things against his pale face.

How could I replace my father? In any task? He ruled the Underworld as king. He held the lives of all mortals in his grasp. He could take away the breath of the living with a single touch.

He was called Lord of Death, God of the Underworld, Hades, the Grim Reaper . . .

But to me, he was Father.

About the Author


Writing under Jane Redd, Heather B. Moore is the USA Today bestselling and award-winning author of more than a dozen historical novels set in ancient Arabia and Mesoamerica. She attended the Cairo American College in Egypt and the Anglican International School in Jerusalem and received her Bachelor of Science degree from Brigham Young University. She writes historical thrillers under the pen name H.B. Moore, and romance and women’s fiction under the name Heather B. Moore. It can be confusing, so her kids just call her Mom.


Book Blitz Giveaway


1 winner will receive a copy of SOLSTICE by Jane Redd (ebook or print - print to US only)
Open internationally
Ends February 2nd






Saturday, January 27, 2018

Review: This Treacherous Journey by Misty M. Beller


Heidi Reads... This Treacherous Journey by Misty M. Beller

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

http://www.amazon.comhttp://www.amazon.comhttp://www.barnesandnoble.comhttp://www.bookdepository.comhttp://www.goodreads.com

Synopsis

Widowed and with child, Emma Malcom is fleeing from the reward offered for her arrest. She’s innocent of the dirty dealings her deceased husband orchestrated, but the angry townspeople didn’t stop to listen to her defense before she narrowly escaped with her life. Now, she and her twin brother, Joseph, must battle the mountain wilderness of the Rockies to reach Canada and the clean start she craves. But when a fall from the rocky cliff leaves Joseph wounded and weak, could the strange mountain man they encounter be God’s gift to see them to safety?

Simeon Grant makes bad choices. His deceased wife and twin babies are lost to him now because of his reckless decisions, and the penance he pays by living alone in this mountain wilderness is only a small piece of what he thinks he deserves. When a city woman, heavy with child, appears on his doorstep with her injured brother, her presence resurrects the memories he’s worked so hard to forget. And when she asks for his help to travel deeper into the mountain country, he can’t help wonder why God would force him to relive the same mistakes he’s already suffered through. Or maybe taking these two to safety could be the way to redeem himself.

But when their travels prove more treacherous than he imagined, Simeon finds himself pressing the limits of his ability to keep Emma and her brother safe. Can he overcome the past that haunts him to be the man she needs? Will Emma break through the walls around Simeon’s heart before it’s too late, or will the dangers of these mountains be the end of them all?


My Review

What an adventure! I loved getting lost in the Rocky Mountains with Emma, Simeon, and Joseph, and feeling the majesty and power and danger of the untamed wilderness. Simeon is one of my favorite types of heroes- strong, quiet, and harboring a private angst that our heroine helps him release. He saves her physically, but she saves him spiritually by encouraging him to turn to the Lord and reminding him that God's love and peace are always there, even and especially in the hard times. Emma's strength and fortitude was impressive, I can't imagine undergoing such a journey during pregnancy! When the circumstances were overwhelming, she had the grit necessary to push her anxieties to the side and buckle down to help the men. I loved her relationship with her brother Joseph and the care and support they gave each other. Joseph had a good sense of humor and was quick to smile... when he wasn't injured. Emma wasn't quick to trust Simeon because of her previous experience with men, but he quickly proved himself stalwart and reliable. Their friendship grew steadily throughout the book and their romance developed naturally after that, which I loved. There is plenty of peril and nail-biting suspense balanced skillfully with the more mundane parts of an arduous journey and the reflections of characters who are searching for safety. I am looking forward to reading more by this author!

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)


Book Tour Grand Finale: His One and Only Bride by Tara Randel

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Book Tour Grand Finale for
His One and Only Bride
By Tara Randel

We hope you enjoyed the tour! If you missed any of the stops
you can see snippets, as well as the link to each full post, below:

Launch - Note from the Author

Greetings everyone! I hope you’re settling into the new year. It’s a great time of expectation, hope and looking forward to the surprises and adventures 2018 will bring. I’m excited about the release of my newest Harlequin Heartwarming book, His One and Only Bride. If ever there was a story about fresh starts, this is it.

. . . Hopefully, you’ll enjoy Mitch and Zoe’s journey as they discover what is really important in life.

Happy reading!

— Tara


“Do you remember where our lockers were?” Mitch asked, thankfully changing the subject.

“I haven’t thought about high school in years.” She looked around to get her bearings. “Down this hallway?”

“Looks right.”

She ran her fingers over the cold metal of the lockers, could still make out the numbers on the doors despite the limited light. “Twenty-three, twenty-four…Here we go. Twenty-five. My old number.”

“Wonder if the combination is the same.”

“Who even recalls those numbers?”

“I do. Yours was ten-fourteen-one.”

She stared at him, incredulous. “How, after all this time, can you rattle off my combination?”

“Certain things are imprinted on my memory.”

It's All About the Romance - Your Wedding Day…and the Photographer


In His One and Only Bride, Mitch is an injured photojournalist back in the small town where he started his career. He reluctantly embraces the role as the town photographer, covering weddings, family events and studio shots. He quickly discovers he loves weddings and soon becomes the go-to guy in town.

An important and memorable aspect to the overall wedding experience are the pictures commemorating the event. A photographer’s job is to catch the overall joy of the ceremony and the fun of the reception. Much weight is placed on the photographer to catch all these special moments. So as a wedding professional, what are some of the tips of the trade? . . .

Becky on Books - Review

"Finally, an HEA for Zoe! . . .

Though it was frustrating at times to read about the walls these two put up between themselves, both before and during the novel, it did serve to make their ending that much sweeter. A heartwarming side romance between secondary characters and Zoe and Mitch’s absolutely adorable one-year-old son really added to the experience."


Mitch expected his wife’s surprise. After all, to her, he’d risen from the dead.

His hand gripped the cane that had become his lifeline. He wanted to heave it over the railing, but that meant lifting an arm that still needed rehab to function properly. Instead of cataloging his injuries, he focused on his shell-shocked wife.

“I don’t understand. We were told…I thought you were…”

“Dead?”

She reached out to place her palms on the deck railing.

“The report was mistaken.”

“But…How…Why?”


"This is a very predictable story but very well-written in a smooth, flowing manor. The characters are easily connected with and the scenes easily visualized.

There were a few twists." - LAWonder10

"I really enjoyed reading this book. It has suspense, romance and a lot of other fun happenings. . .

I would highly recommend this book to other readers." - Vickie

Book Lover in Florida - Tips for Choosing a Wedding Photographer


The wedding day can be stressful, but if you plan in advance and cover your bases, the day can go off without a hitch. Here are some tips when hiring a photographer.

The Search

Start your search by getting a list of local photographers and reading reviews from recent newlyweds. Review websites and blogs to check out photos of other weddings they’ve shot, which will give you an idea of their style. Visit their social media pages. Look for feedback from previous clients. . . .


"This was such a fun story to read. . . . But in this story, there was so much more to their separation, not just his job. And that is what makes this story so great. . .

There’s a tenderness you start to see between Zoe and Mitch as the story moves on, and it really does give the reader hope that even amongst the greatest conflict in our lives, there really is a chance to make it all okay. I think romance readers will want to dive right in and see how these characters come together."

Heidi Reads... - Excerpt

“Come see your son.”

Leaning on the cane, he made his legs move forward. When he came to the side of the crib, he gazed down at the sleeping boy, who had one thumb brushed up against his lips. Mitch’s breath caught and completely left him for a moment.

Zoe moved to give him better access. He stepped closer. Leo’s chest rose as he inhaled and exhaled. Mitch stared, then began taking inventory, like he imagined a father would upon the delivery of his child. Ten fingers and toes. Light colored hair, standing on end. Chunky little legs. Rosy skin. Spiky eyelashes caressing his cheek.

A longing, unlike any he’d ever experienced before in his life, pummeled him. This was his son. His flesh and blood. A miracle.


"His One and Only Bride is part of The Business of Weddings series and my first introduction to Tara Randel’s writing. I thought it was pretty good. It is full of drama and sweetness, with a little bit of mystery. I loved seeing Mitch and Zoe together and kept wondering what would happen next. Such a good heartwarming story."

Bookworm Lisa - Review

"I enjoyed the emotions in the book. I felt like it captured the characters thoughts and the angst of their relationship. . .

. . . The book has mystery! That is a wonderful bonus for a reader.

If you love second chance romance with a bit of mystery you should pick this one up."


“So, what do you think?” she asked.

“I think I can’t wait to get to know him.”

The frown again.

“What?”

“I just can’t picture you staying in Cypress Pointe long enough for any quality time with Leo.”

“My priorities will change.”

“Really?” Disbelief tinged her voice. “For how long?”

Remembrancy - Review

"My second favorite trope in the romance genre (just behind the friends to more theme) is second chance at love. And boy, oh boy, does His One and Only Bride hit that nail on the head. . .

Though this book is the finale of a series, it’s the first one I’ve read and, while I was curious about the supporting cast, I was never taken out of Zoe and Mitch’s search for their true HEA."


"I quite literally moved through this novel with all the emotions stitched inside it - you even get a jolt of an alert realising there is a dearly dangerous 'suspense' element lingering just out of sight for you to grasp and hold a breath to see how it will resolve! Meanwhile, the solidarity of the friendships, the humbleness of the character's journey towards redemption, forgiveness and a second chance at starting over their lives is what grounds you into the background. You want to rally behind these characters because of how earnestly their attempting to right the wrongs of the past whilst owning to the realities of their futures. This is what makes Contemporary Rom engaging as it feels more like a slice of our reality knitted into the foreground of a modern fictional setting."

I Am A Reader - It All Leads Up To a Day


Weddings are a beautiful event. The dress. The flowers. The reception. But it doesn’t just materialize out of nowhere. So what goes in to planning a wedding? . . .


"His One and Only Bride by Tara Randel is beautifully written with a sweet message & layered characters. Zoe’s hesitancy to welcome Mitch back with open arms is believable and sincere, as is Mitch’s struggle to adjust to life back home with a host of injuries and regret. If you want to renew your belief in the power of love and authentic forgiveness, this is a great choice for your TBR pile!"


Zoe glanced at Mitch’s handsome face. Despite the paleness and general look of exhaustion, she saw real humor light his eyes for the first time since he’d been home.

“I always imagined I’d have to keep an eye on you two. I have a feeling there are going to be a lot of don’t-tell-Mom moments in my future.”

“Does that mean you won’t fight me about being active in Leo’s life?”

“Not unless something happens to warrant it.”

Zoe reached out to touch his arm, then pulled back. Touching probably wouldn’t be a good idea. Not yet.


"There’s a little mystery, a lot of romance and a precious baby named, Leo that made this an enjoyable read. This is the first book that I’ve read by Ms. Randel and I was impressed with her writing. I look forward to reading more of her work. This is a clean romance that can be read in a short time."


"A presumed dead resurrection is always a drama-filled subject that we don’t get to read all that often, so the turmoil it brought forth in this latest book in the Business of Weddings series really packed a punch.

. . . Overall, an emotional read with relatable characters and a strong storyline!"

The Bookworm Chronicles - The Big Event-The History of Weddings


How did this special day of joining yourself to the love of your life come about? Today, we see huge weddings on televisions and in magazines, but how did many of the traditions we love today come about? . . .

Paulette's Papers - Excerpt

They’d taken a few steps when Mitch stopped.

“Something wrong?”

“This is the place we shared our first kiss.”

Her stomach fluttered. He was right.

With the life-altering events of the past week and watching Mitch’s near-meltdown just a short while ago, Zoe had forgotten. How could she have failed to recall such a momentous event?

“It was junior year.” Mitch grinned at her. “We’d been flirting and I was determined to make us a couple. When I suggested it here, you got all teary, said yes and then I kissed you.”

Okay, if she were truthful, maybe she didn’t want to remember that night. The sweet memory brought a pinch of pain in the vicinity of her heart.

“That was a long time ago.”

“Doesn’t make it any less memorable.”


"The emotional turmoil of this book had me from the first chapter. I had to know what happened next. Mitch and Zoe have been through so much. This book will take you on an emotional roller coaster. The depth of this book is so unreal. The mindset of these characters will take your breath away."

And don't forget to enter the giveaway below, if you haven't already...

http://amzn.to/2FUJT10
His One and Only Bride
(The Business of Weddings #5)
Tara Randel
Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 384 pages
January 1st 2018 by Harlequin Heartwarming

He never thought he’d see her again!

After being reported missing, presumed dead, globe-hopping photojournalist Mitch Simmons never thought he’d see his estranged wife, Zoe, again. Yet here he is back in their coastal Florida town, where Zoe is mayor. Turns out she isn’t the only one he left behind.

Discovering he has a baby son awakens thrilling new emotions in Mitch. And there are his still-powerful feelings for the high school sweetheart he vowed to love and honor forever. Thankfully, they’ll have the chance to find the love that was always there…

GoodreadsAmazonBarnes & NobleHarlequin

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 Giveaway


- US PRIZE PACK: Signed copies of Rival HeartsThe Bridal Bouquet and The Wedding March, a Harlequin Heartwarming tote bag, a 2018 appointment planner and a $25 Amazon gift card
- US residents only
- Ends January 31st

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Thursday, January 25, 2018

Review: My Heart Belongs in Niagara Falls, New York: Adele's Journey by Amanda Barratt


Heidi Reads... My Heart Belongs in Niagara Falls, New York: Adele's Journey by Amanda Barratt

My rating: 2 stars / It was okay

http://www.amazon.comhttp://www.amazon.comhttp://www.barnesandnoble.comhttp://www.bookdepository.comhttp://www.goodreads.com

Synopsis

Journey now to Niagara Falls, New York, of 1870 where...
She avoids danger at all costs. He makes his living by rushing headlong into it.

Outwardly, Adele Linley’s trip to visit her American cousins is nothing more than a summer vacation. In reality, she’s the daughter of an English aristocrat with barely a penny to her name seeking a rich American husband.

Having grown up in an overcrowded orphanage, Drew Dawson is determined to make a name for himself. He’ll take any honest job to provide for his sister—even crossing Niagara Falls by tightrope.

On a sightseeing trip to the Falls, Adele meets several eligible suitors. Incredibly wealthy and pompous, Franklin Conway takes an immediate fancy to her. But Adele would truly like to marry for love.  When she encounters the mysterious Drew in the garden, Adele is confused by her feelings for someone who is everything she is NOT looking for. Will they both stay the course they have chosen for themselves?


My Review

Adele is a bit of a hot mess. She puts on a good façade, but her desperate circumstances lead her to desperate measures, and even more desperate choices. I appreciated the setting and learning a little history of Niagara Falls, but there was something about the story that prevented me from fully enjoying it. Perhaps it was Adele's duplicity and hypocrisy- taking the moral high ground over the tightrope walkers "exploiting" the Falls, while she pursues Mr. Conway for his wealth even though she can't stand him. I liked Drew and his devotion to his invalid sister and her care, but felt like there was a lack of chemistry between him and Adele, even thought they kept coming across each other coincidentally in order to bring two people from separate classes together. Drew's sister Hope was sweet and I would have liked to see more of her in the book. I was curious to see how the author would bring these two star-crossed lovers together in the end, and it was a bumpy ride- Adele's choices getting worse and worse until her final attempt to redeem the consequences of her betrayal. There was a spiritual message of trusting God but even though Adele went through the thought process, her actions proved that she still relied on herself and herself alone. While the ending included an epilogue, there were several loose threads that never got tied up, leaving me feeling dissatisfied.

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)

More from the My Heart Belongs series...

My Heart Belongs in Fort Bliss: Priscilla's Reveille by Erica Vetsch
My Heart Belongs in the Superstition Mountains: Carmella's Quandary by Susan Page Davis
My Heart Belongs in Ruby City, Idaho: Rebecca's Plight by Susanne Dietze 
My Heart Belongs on Mackinac Island: Maude's Mooring by Carrie Fancett Pagels
My Heart Belongs in the Shenandoah Valley: Lily's Dilemma by Andrea Boeshaar
My Heart Belongs in Castle Gate, Utah: Leanna's Choice by Angie Dicken 

My Heart Belongs in San Fransisco, California: Abby's Prospects by Janice Thompson (March 2018)
My Heart Belongs in Glenwood Springs, Colorado: Millie's Resolve by Rebecca Jepson (May 2018)
My Heart Belongs in Galveston, Texas: Madeline's Search by Kathleen Y'Barbo (July 2018)