Showing posts with label book tour. Show all posts
Showing posts with label book tour. Show all posts

Friday, February 15, 2019

YA LOVE Event: Courtside Crush by Kayla Tirrell

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Courtside Crush by Kayla Tirrell for
YA LOVE

https://amzn.to/2IbjWiZCourtside Crush
(Varsity Girlfriends #1)
By Kayla Tirrell
YA Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 225Pages
February 12th 2019

So much for senior year being the best part of high school.

It all started when I caught my boyfriend cheating on me.
I did what any girl would do—I got revenge. Of course, it didn’t stop there. Thanks to a condemning video, I also got eight weeks of community service and athletic probation right before basketball season is supposed to start. (There goes my spot as captain!)

Thankfully, there’s a guy at Marlowe Junction’s Helping Hands who makes passing the time more enjoyable. He’s gorgeous, funny, and a huge basketball fan.

Too bad he’s also my brother’s biggest enemy…

Courtside Crush is a modern-day retelling of Romeo and Juliet, perfect for anyone who likes their sweet romance with a dash of drama. It is the first book in the Varsity Girlfriends series.


Guest Post: Fun Facts

Courtside Crush is a Romeo and Juliet retelling, which means I drew heavily on the play for inspiration. 

Here are some fun facts about this new release:

—The prologue is a quote straight from Romeo and Juliet that was tweaked ever so slightly to make it fit the high school where Courtside Crush takes place. 

“Two teams, both alike in dignity
In fair Marlow Junction, where we lay our scene
From basketball grudge to new mutiny
Where rival love makes rival schools unclean”
-Probably not Shakespeare

I even had a sticker made that I’m giving to anyone who orders the e-book or paperback. (You just have to send a screenshot of your purchase and your address to any of my social media inboxes to claim one!)

—Many of the characters in Courtside Crush have counterparts from Romeo and Juliet, though it’s not always obvious. We have Romeo and Juliet, of course, but I also included an evil Count Paris, a gender-bent Friar Laurence, a kind-hearted Mercutio, a ginger Tybalt, and a snooty Rosaline. (Can you figure them all out?)

—When I write, I tend to get stuck on a handful of songs. Is it any surprise I listened to a lot of Taylor Swift—specifically Love Story. I just couldn’t help myself!

—After I finished writing Courtside Crush, I bought my very first Funko Pops. They are little versions of Leonardo DiCaprio and Claire Danes. I still remember watching the “modern” version of Romeo and Juliet back in the 90s. It was eye-opening to see the “stuffy” play in “real life”. 

—I know NOTHING about basketball. Absolutely nothing. But my co-writers both insisted we tackle that sport in our joint series. This meant I had “DO THE SPORTS THING” in my draft—a lot. In fact, they had to basically write some of the sports scenes for me. (Whoops!)

Courtside Crush just released on 2/12/19 and it’s my favorite book I’ve written to date. I hope you love Jackson and Charlie as much as I loved writing them!

About the Author


Kayla has loved to read as long as she can remember. While she started out reading spooky stories that had her hiding under her covers, she now prefers stories with a bit more kissing.

When she gets a chance to watch TV, she enjoys cheesy sci-fi and superhero shows.

Most days, you’ll catch her burning dinner in an attempt to cook while reading just one more chapter.

Kayla lives in the sunshine state with her husband and three boys.

Tour Schedule
(Links won't work until the posts go live.)


Tour Giveaway


GIVEAWAY PRIZES:
- 1 winner will receive a $15 Amazon eGift Card (open internationally)
- 1 winner will receive a paperback copy of LOVE AT FIRST FIGHT by Maggie Dallen (US only)
- 1 winner will receive a signed paperback copy of PERFECTLY YOU by Robin Daniels (US only)
- 1 winner will receive copies of SECRET GIRLFRIEND & SECRET LIFE by Bria Quinlan (if in the US: choice between the 2 paperbacks or the ebundle, if outside the US, the ebundle)
1 winner will receive a paperback copy of COURTSIDE CRUSH by Kayla Tirrell (US only)

Ends February 20, 2019





Thursday, February 14, 2019

YA LOVE Event: Secret Girlfriend & Secret Life by Bria Quinlan

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Secret Girlfriend & Secret Life by Bria Quinlan for
YA LOVE

https://amzn.to/2N0Zj7CSecret Girlfriend
(RVHS Secrets #1)
By Bria Quinlan
YA Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 274 Pages
October 16th 2013 by RogueGiraffe Books

Since her mom died, Amy Whalen’s been invisible—but not in the cool, superpower kind of way. Overlooked at school and ignored at home, Amy holds tight to her few constants: running, painting, and her long-held crush on soccer god, Chris Kent. But as senior year nears, Chris doesn’t just notice her, he needs her.

Amy will agree to almost anything to be with him.

Everything is great—sort of—until Luke Parker shows up for soccer tryouts and sees through every one of Amy’s defenses. When Luke decides he wants Chris’s spot on the team and wouldn’t sneeze at the captain’s jersey either their rivalry spins out of control.

It doesn’t help that Luke also wants the girl Chris kept hidden all summer: AMY.

https://amzn.to/2E6weVvSecret Life
(RVHS Secrets #2)
By Bria Quinlan
YA Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 282 Pages
December 15th 2013 by RogueGiraffe Books

Rachel's been keeping secrets for years. No one outside her family knows about the panic attacks or meds, the weekly therapy drive-bys or the “safe” outfit. If she could hide it all from her string of ex-boyfriends and her best friend Amy, then why should anything change? But, when the one guy as messed up as she is blackmails her into helping him, life goes from closely restrained to out of control.

Sometimes choosing between sanity and love is the craziest thing of all.


Excerpt

What would you do if you finally got what you wanted, but had to keep it a secret?

That’s what happens to Amy Whalen.

She’s finally gotten the attention of the guy she’s been crushing on for years, only he’s got some stupid plan and lots of rules and a “public persona” girlfriend to go with them that do not include Amy.

But, that’s not weird, right? I mean, her mom left her (okay, died) and her dad has been MIA for 4 years even if he does make sure that house is paid for and food occasionally shows up in the kitchen. She hasn’t even seen him in months.

So maybe she’s just that girl…the second-best girl and she should take what she can get, right?

That is, until the new guy shows up at tryouts and makes her (and her secret boyfriend) challenge everything they thought they knew about her.

SECRET GIRLFRIEND EXCERPT

Seven lockers down Chris Kent was making out with Cheryl, the way-too-perky head cheerleader.

I tried not to stare, but when his hand slid past her waist and over her hip, I slammed my locker shut and stormed off in the opposite direction. Not that anyone noticed. The problem? Not only was I that gorgeous jock’s secret girlfriend—I also had a secret power.

I’m invisible.

Okay, not invisible invisible. But, in the not-so-mythical land of Highschoolia where blending in equals obscurity, I rated a negative seven JD on the Jane Doe to Lindsay Lohan Visibility Scale. I’d have been the first to tell you I didn’t mind. Well, typically.

I’d made a deal with the devil… I mean the boy… and stomping away was the only thing I could do.

That boy? Chris Kent? Yeah, he and his Plan might just kill me where Advance Trig had failed. But, with my dream guy as the self-proclaimed prize, what’s a girl to do?

I’d been only too happy to sign onto The Plan. And, since tryout sessions were closed, little Miss Wave-My-Butt-Around-In-My-Too-Short-Cheer-Skirt couldn’t show up to practice no matter how much she fluttered her eyelashes.

You see, I’ve been in love with Chris Kent since fifth grade and, as senior year was about to start, he was finally all mine—well, sort of.

All I had to do was follow The Plan until after Homecoming, track the soccer team’s stats with the same dedication Aunt Susan counted Weight Watcher’s points, and not kill Cheryl. Easy, right?

Yeah, right. Amy needs to do a little more than that – like figure out who she is, what she really wants, and not let the two guys in her life kill each other in the meantime.

About the Author


Quirky Girl and all around lovable klutz, Bria Quinlan writes Diet-Coke-Snort-Worthy Rom Coms about what it's like to be a girl and deal with crap and still look for love and books that take hard topics and make you laugh through your tears…or maybe cry through your laughter. Some people call them issue books. Some people call them romantic comedies. Bria calls them what-life-looks-like.

Her stories remind you that life is an adventure not to be ignored.

If these things are important to you: she’s an RWA RITA, RWA Golden Heart, & Cyblis nominee as well as a USA Today Best Seller, and natural blonde represented by the awesomely amazing Laird Lauren Macleod of the Clan…. Oh, wait. Of Strothman Agency.

Tour Schedule
(Links won't work until the posts go live.)


Tour Giveaway


GIVEAWAY PRIZES:
- 1 winner will receive a $15 Amazon eGift Card (open internationally)
- 1 winner will receive a paperback copy of LOVE AT FIRST FIGHT by Maggie Dallen (US only)
- 1 winner will receive a signed paperback copy of PERFECTLY YOU by Robin Daniels (US only)
- 1 winner will receive copies of SECRET GIRLFRIEND & SECRET LIFE by Bria Quinlan (if in the US: choice between the 2 paperbacks or the ebundle, if outside the US, the ebundle)
1 winner will receive a paperback copy of COURTSIDE CRUSH by Kayla Tirrell (US only)

Ends February 20, 2019





Wednesday, February 13, 2019

YA LOVE Event: Perfectly You by Robin Daniels

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Perfectly You by Robin Daniels for
YA LOVE

https://amzn.to/2X8444aPerfectly You
(Perfect #2)
By Robin Daniels
YA Contemporary Romantic Comedy
Paperback, Audiobook & ebook, 298 Pages
September 1, 2017

Ivy Nixon is the student body Vice President at Franklin High School. Each year, the school holds a date auction to raise funds for the senior class graduation party, and this year, Ivy’s in charge. Planning the event is a huge task and Ivy is determined to prove she can get the job done right. Unfortunately, she’s still one participant short and her deadline is looming.

Andy Walker, her cute but socially reclusive art class table mate, is her last resort. He may not be popular, but he’s funny, talented, and full of surprises. With a makeover and some major social marketing, Ivy is sure he could fetch a decent price at the auction.

Andy reluctantly agrees to help, but the more time Ivy spends with him, the more her feelings shift from professional to romantic in nature. To top it off, she’s done her marketing so well, that other girls are starting to notice Andy too. Come auction time, will Ivy be able to let him go to the highest bidder? Or will she find a way to keep him for herself…


Excerpt

For a moment, I forgot what I was doing and leaned into him. Wow, he smelled unbelievably good. Like soap and dryer sheets and something a little sharper that I couldn't identify. I needed to ask him what cologne he wore, because it was incredible. I could smell him all day. Not to mention that his chest was a lot firmer than one would guess, since he hides it under baggy button-down shirts all the time.

Andy cleared his throat and I pulled away. He looked embarrassed again. He really needed to get over that, and I was going to help him, starting right now. "Sorry." I grinned. "You smell amazing. Your cologne is yummy enough to eat. I could sit here and sniff you for the rest of the class."

He choked on his spit and quickly put his fist over his mouth to stifle his laughter. "Please don't." He was trying to sound horrified, but his face gave him away. He appreciated the compliment.

"Okay." I threw my hands up in surrender. "But fair warning...if I'm having a bad day, I may lean over and smell your neck to induce a calming effect. When that happens, don't punch me."

Andy shook his head, bewildered by the turn our conversation had taken. "I'll try not to punch you, if you decide to randomly press your face against my neck."

"When you say it like that, I sound like a psycho stalker."

"Psycho and stalker are your words, not mine. But, if the shoe fits..." He trailed off, and I smacked him on the arm.

"Ouch!" Andy rubbed the place I'd just hit. "I'm only kidding. I don't think you're a psycho stalker. I've never seen any indication that you're a stalker. You're more likely a plain old psycho." He was grinning nice and big now, and I couldn't help but grin back.

Other Books in the Series



About the Author


Robin is an overgrown child who fancies herself a bit of a comedienne. She loves to laugh, crack jokes, create flirty characters, write witty banter and believes in happy endings. Robin lives outside of Phoenix with her wonderful husband, five crazy kids and naughty labradoodle puppy. When not writing or reading books, she's probably binge watching Netflix and overdosing on Diet Coke.

Tour Schedule
(Links won't work until the posts go live.)


Tour Giveaway


GIVEAWAY PRIZES:
- 1 winner will receive a $15 Amazon eGift Card (open internationally)
- 1 winner will receive a paperback copy of LOVE AT FIRST FIGHT by Maggie Dallen (US only)
- 1 winner will receive a signed paperback copy of PERFECTLY YOU by Robin Daniels (US only)
- 1 winner will receive copies of SECRET GIRLFRIEND & SECRET LIFE by Bria Quinlan (if in the US: choice between the 2 paperbacks or the ebundle, if outside the US, the ebundle)
1 winner will receive a paperback copy of COURTSIDE CRUSH by Kayla Tirrell (US only)

Ends February 20, 2019





Tuesday, February 12, 2019

YA LOVE Event: Love at First Fight by Maggie Dallen

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Love at First Fight by Maggie Dallen for
YA LOVE

https://amzn.to/2GFHbz8Love at First Fight
(Geeks Gone Wild #1)
By Maggie Dallen
YA Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 226 Pages
January 13th 2019

Band Geek vs Quarterback...

One humiliating photo, a stupid prank, and a hashtag that goes viral. That's how my senior year goes from predictable to absurd in a heartbeat. This year is supposed to be easy. I've finally scored first chair in band, my college applications are done, and all my friends and I have to do is survive one more year of high school before our real lives can begin. Instead, I find myself in trouble with the principal, humiliated in front of the entire school, and fighting with my neighbor—AKA star quarterback, Prince Charming, and nicest guy on the planet.

And that's just on the first day back at school. Trust me, it only gets worse from there. As #GeeksGoneWild trends on social media, my friends and I are the targets of an online witch hunt. But they've picked on the wrong people and retaliation is severe. As the tension escalates, it soon becomes clear that someone needs to step up and put an end to this nonsense. If that means playing nice with the quarterback, I guess that's what I have to do. Now if someone could please tell my heart that this new friendship is just for show. And the kisses...oh, the kisses. Someone please remind me that they don't mean a thing.


Excerpt

When I met her gaze again she had her lips pressed together and her eyes were still narrowed but this time I got the sense that she was actively trying not to laugh.

As if she could read my mind she arched her brows and shook her head. “Nope. Not gonna happen. You might be able to fool everyone else in this school into thinking you’re some sort of white-hat-wearing hero but you cannot charm me, Jason Connolly.”

I let out a little snort of amusement at that description. “White hat, huh? I always thought I had more of a knight-in-shining-armor vibe going on.”

Her frown was exaggerated. “Never going to happen. I’m immune to your charms.”

“Never say never.”

She rolled her eyes but reached for the failed pop quiz I’d laid out between us as a weird sort of olive branch. She scanned it briefly, her eyes bright with new interest that was entirely academic. “Okay, fine,” she said, sliding the quiz back to me. “Let’s get this over with.”

“That’s the spirit.”

She arched a brow as she flipped open my book so we were on the same page. “You’re currently witnessing the cruel and unusual punishment that has me paying for your friends’ idiotic idea of a joke. Don’t tell me I ought to be happy about it.”

She met my gaze evenly and I tried not to flinch. She pointed to the chapter heading on my book. “Read this.” Then she sat back with folded arms. “You’re only my problem until next week. That’s when my punishment ends.”

I opened my mouth to make another flippant joke, but stopped. The fact that she was here being punished wasn’t funny, especially since she wasn’t the one who should’ve been paying. So instead, I met her gaze and gave her a small smile that held no teasing. “Then I guess we’d better get started.”

Other Books in the Series

Coming in March...

About the Author


Maggie Dallen is a big city girl living in Montana. She writes adult and young adult romantic comedies in a range of genres. An unapologetic addict of all things romance, she loves to connect with fellow avid readers on Facebook, Twitter or at www.maggiedallen.com. To keep up to date with her new releases (and for giveaways, sale alerts, and sneak peeks), sign up for her monthly newsletter here.

Tour Schedule
(Links won't work until the posts go live.)


Tour Giveaway


GIVEAWAY PRIZES:
- 1 winner will receive a $15 Amazon eGift Card (open internationally)
- 1 winner will receive a paperback copy of LOVE AT FIRST FIGHT by Maggie Dallen (US only)
- 1 winner will receive a signed paperback copy of PERFECTLY YOU by Robin Daniels (US only)
- 1 winner will receive copies of SECRET GIRLFRIEND & SECRET LIFE by Bria Quinlan (if in the US: choice between the 2 paperbacks or the ebundle, if outside the US, the ebundle)
1 winner will receive a paperback copy of COURTSIDE CRUSH by Kayla Tirrell (US only)

Ends February 20, 2019





Monday, February 11, 2019

Book Tour Grand Finale: Winning the Cowboy's Heart by Karen Rock


On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Book Tour Grand Finale for
Winning the Cowboy's Heart
By Karen Rock

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

Launch - Note from the Author

The Cade and Loveland family drama continues with the fifth book in my Rocky Mountain Cowboys series! The Cade and Loveland ranching families, neighbors who’ve been feuding for over a hundred years, are full of such interesting and complicated characters who face, and overcome, personal challenges in unique and inspiring ways to find true love and happiness. . . . I hope you enjoy this long awaited love story where opposites truly attract and learning to love yourself is the first step to truly loving another.

— Karen


"This is an entertaining tale of two "sworn enemy" families who were forced to look "deep within themselves and in others". This story is somewhat predictable, yet, keeps the reader interested until the very end.

This will surely inspire all who read it. The characters are very realistic and the scenes easily visualized."


"What a great story! This book is part of a series, yet I had no trouble jumping in and understanding some of the backstory between the two main families that was established in previous novels.


I really liked Heath and Jewel and wanted things to work out for them. They had such great chemistry . . . . I really liked this story and hope to read future books in this series."

Hallie Reads - Review

"Another delightful cowboy story from Karen Rock, Winning the Cowboy’s Heart puts Jewel Cade and Heath Loveland at the forefront of the action. Their families may be feuding, but the chemistry and attraction they share is undeniable—and seeing their romance unfold is well worth the read. . . . If you love cowboy romances, definitely check out Winning the Cowboy’s Heart. It reads well on its own, so don’t worry if you haven’t read the rest of the series yet (but those books are wonderful, too!)."


"Winning the Cowboy’s Heart is an excellent story, as is the whole Rocky Mountain Cowboys series. It’s well written, highly entertaining, almost impossible to put down, engages the emotions, and is clean. . . . Woven throughout this story is the off-the-charts chemistry between Heath and Jewel, with some kissing scenes guaranteed to leave you weak at the knees, but there’s also tons of atmosphere, character depth and relational drama. . . . I don’t think I’ll ever tire of this series and hope for more stories to come. Highly recommended."


"This has been such a fun series so far. I am loving it. Finally we get to Jewel, one of the rare women in the midst of this family of mostly men. . . . I really loved Jewel. . . . One thing I love about this book was Heath's perspective. . . . The family dynamics continue to play a large role in the book as with all the other books in this series. The bigger story is playing out and shifting with each of the main characters from previous books contributing their part. I love the ongoing feeling of family and, well, the drama that only family can bring.

I can't wait for the next book which is coming soon!"


"Karen Rock does a fantastic job of portraying her character's feelings with vivid imagery that completely sings to my soul. . . . I thoroughly enjoyed the small-town, cowboy feel to the story and loved the grit and determination of both Heath and Jewel, as they work hard to prove themselves and to follow their individual dreams. . . . The chemistry simmers from the start and the gradual release was well worth the wait. I think this one is my favorite of the set so far! I loved every juicy minute of this book and I can't wait for more."


"The beauty of this installment is not just keeping the continuity in tact for the Loveland/Cade adverse relationship stemming from water rights but for giving us a glimpse into how hard it is to recognise needing the time to learn "who you are' before you can consider becoming a 'partner' with someone else. . . . Rock hasn't disappointed me - she's crafted together a wicked lovely fifth installment of a series that is enduring as it is nurturing . . . its a series that once it grabs your emotional bookish hearts, your not going to want to 'let it go' until you get the chance to read the next story!"


"This is a great book inspired by Romeo and Juliet. It has the arts in it (music) and it has a family rivalry. . . . Even though their families are feuding, they are thrown together. As they work side by side they start to fall for each other. . . . I am giving this book a 5/5."


"This is a great book for readers who enjoy clean romance, big families, ranching, music, and happily ever afters. Although I’m sure the previous books in this series are equally enjoyable, this story can be read independently and I definitely recommend it!"

Remembrancy - Review

"With the pull of attraction getting stronger between Heath and Jewell, a looming lawsuit between the families, and discovering what’s most important in their lives, Karen Rock gives readers another thoroughly enjoyable and fulfilling story. Winning the Cowboy’s Heart one is the best in the series yet!"

onemused - Review

"#WinningTheCowboysHeart is a Romeo and Juliet style cowboy romance. . . . Heath and Jewel are a great, complimentary couple. Notably, as a heartwarming book, you won't find more than a kiss in the book- but boy, are there some kisses! I highly recommend!"

EmpowerMoms - Review

"This story was really fun to read! I enjoyed the characters, family dynamics and reading about daily life on the ranch. I can’t wait to read more books in this “Rocky Mountain Cowboys” series! . . . Highly recommend this book and series-it’s a lot of fun to read!"

Harlie's Books - Review

"Okay, I still haven’t told you why I loved the book. Simple. Ms. Rock wrote it and I love the Cades and Lovelands, warts and all. With this story, my emotions and reactions were all over the place and I love her for it. She made me stop and think about it. I’m writing this review the night before its due and I finished the book over a week ago. Yes, I’m still thinking about it and my emotions are still strong."


"Since I read the first book in the series and then ones after that I have looked forward to Jewel’s story. This book did not disappoint. . . . I am enjoying this series. They can be read as a stand alone but I recommend the whole series, they are all great."


"This has been a fun series so far and I have to admit that I’ve been anxiously waiting to read, Winning the Cowboy’s Heart. . . . Ms. Rock certainly made the wait worthwhile by focusing on Heath and Jewell. I absolutely loved the banter between them . . . I love novels that focus on family, friends and hard work something the author covers so well throughout this series. . . . It’s a fast-paced story filled with sweet and loveable characters, Although this is the 5th book in the series it can be read as a standalone but I recommend you read them in order so that you can follow the families and their history."


"I loved Winning the Cowboy’s Heart. Heath and Jewell were fun together. The chemistry between the two was undeniable. I never knew what would happen with them and had to keep turning the pages to find out. . . . I highly recommend it for readers who love a well written, clean and heartwarming romance. "


"It’s like coming home again! Every time I open the latest book in Karen Rock’s Rocky Mountain Cowboy’s series, it’s like being among family. . . . I loved the complexity of their situation, and getting to catch up with news from how our favorite past couples are doing. Great characters, compelling drama and a sweet happily ever after … loved Jewel & Heath!"


"This is a story of learning to trust yourself and to do things that will benefit yourself rather than striving always to please others. It is an exploration of how expectations and dreams can be revised, especially when you discover what your thought were facts really aren’t. . . . I’ve enjoyed every book in this series. They probably work well as standalones but they are about the same families and relate to events in chronological order – I highly recommend them all and can’t wait for the next one, A Rancher to Remember, to be released in April!"


"Winning The Cowboy's Heart by Karen Rock is absolutely amazing. I don't know how but Rock always makes me feel like I am right there with her characters as I am reading. . . . I hope you are ready for a modern day Romeo and Juliet."


"I have been waiting for Jewel and Heath’s story since book one and boy howdy it did not disappoint. With one party already in full crush mode and the other party pretty much oblivious at first, it makes for some interesting tension in close quarters. But whew – once Heath figures things out he’s a man on mission. And since some of that mission involves sizzling kisses, you know I’m on board!"

Don't forget to enter the giveaway at the end of this post, if you haven't already...

https://amzn.to/2DtryrmWinning the Cowboy's Heart
(Rocky Mountain Cowboys #5)
By Karen Rock
Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 379 Pages
February 1st 2019 by Harlequin Heartwarming

Jewel Cade wants two things—

One is Heath Loveland

The Rocky Mountain cowgirl has her heart set on becoming range boss of the Cade ranch. But first she has to accompany the son of her family’s longtime enemy—and her off-limits secret crush—on a cattle drive across Colorado. Discovering Heath shares her attraction only makes for a rockier road. Because Jewel has a sneaking suspicion that if she drops her guard, the cowboy might ride off with her heart.


Other Books in the Series


And coming in April 2019...

About the Author

Award-winning author Karen Rock is both sweet and spicy—at least when it comes to her writing! The author of both YA and adult contemporary books writes sexy suspense novels and small-town romances for Harlequin and Kensington publishing. A strong believer in Happily-Ever-After, Karen loves creating unforgettable stories that leave her readers with a smile. When she’s not writing, Karen is an avid reader who also loves cooking her grandmother’s Italian recipes, baking and having the Adirondack Park wilderness as her backyard, where she lives with her husband, daughter, dog and cat who keep her life interesting and complete. Learn more about her at http://www.karenrock.com or follow her on twitter at http://www.twitter.com/karenrock5.

Tour Giveaway


- 1 winner will receive a $50 Amazon eGift Card - Open Internationally
1 winner will receive signed, print copies of the first four books in the Rocky Mountain Cowboys series (Christmas at Cade Ranch, Falling for a Cowboy, Bad Boy Rancher & A Cowboy's Pride) - US Only
- Ends February 13, 2019

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Monday, February 4, 2019

Book Tour Grand Finale: The Marine's Return by Rula Sinara

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Book Tour Grand Finale for
The Marine's Return
By Rula Sinara

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

Thank you for stopping by my book release tour for THE MARINE’S RETURN, the sixth and final book in my ‘From Kenya, With Love’ series for Harlequin Heartwarming. I’ve loved everything about writing this series, from the romance and characters, including the endearing orphaned baby elephants, to ‘traveling’ to the breathtaking setting of Kenya’s Serengeti ecosystem and Masai Mara regions every time I sat down to type. You can read my Dear Reader letter from the Prism Release Blitz that took place the first week of January and find out more about the series as a whole HERE...


"The Marine’s Return is so well written. I love the characters, and reading about the familiar characters from the other two books I read was so enjoyable. Chad and Lexi’s interactions are so much fun to read. In fact, you’re going to love how two other characters come together too! . . . I highly recommend The Marine’s Return because of the amazing characters, descriptive setting, exciting story line, and sweet romance."


A single, lonely acacia tree graced the top of it like one of those paper umbrellas used for decorating fancy drinks. Only there was nothing fancy about this place. He hadn’t seen the hill from the camp. The view would have been blocked by the trees flanking the exam tent, but he did recall seeing a hill and some outcroppings from the chopper. The rest of the area spread into farmland and savannah prairies, with the occasional tree dappling the landscape. He had to admit, Lexi was smart. She knew exactly where he’d want to go.

“A vantage point,” he called out over the engine noise in acknowledgment of her plan.

“A sensible starting point. Some people get so obsessed with the details that they lose sight of the big picture.” She pressed her lips together and gave him a quick side glance.

No comment.


"This novel addresses some of the many sacrifices made by those in armed forces and their families. Additionally it address, illegal poaching, and the inner strength individuals fin within themselves. . . The characters feel very real and the background scenes are vividly portrayed in script. The reader will, truly, feel herself/himself connected to the characters and the African terrain."


A thorny acacia-branch fence formed a protective thicket around each of the homestead villages. The Masai women, men and children, dressed in their famously vibrant colors, dotted the earthy hues of the drought-stricken landscape like precious gems. The stark opposite, it occurred to him, of the camouflage he’d been accustomed to in the war-ravaged regions of Afghanistan.

His sister, Maddie, who used her position as a lawyer to fight for the human rights of Kenya’s indigenous tribes, had used that word. Precious. She’d said that the Masai and other tribes were precious, and the beauty of their culture and the people were in danger of being lost to the greedy. His mother had devoted her life to helping the Masai, too. As was Lexi. And here he was, ready to get in the way. Who was the enemy here? He’d grown up in this place and everything—from the people to the surroundings—was a part of him. But whose side was he on now? Protecting Lexi would mean taking critical care away from others. She was right.

Splashes of Joy - Review

"I really did enjoy this story. This is the first book in the series that I have read and I hope to read more from this author. I enjoyed the creative characters and the way they seem so realistic. I have not read very many books set in Kenya, so this part of the book was very interesting to me. I enjoyed the scenes at the clinic as well as the surrounding areas. The talk about the wildlife, and especially how they could he at the sounds of the wild."

Among the Reads - Review

"Kenya is a country on my list of places I would love to visit. And I enjoyed being able to do that vicariously through The Marine’s Return."


"Compelling and emotionally gripping, The Marine’s Return concludes the epic six-book series that will live on in my memory and that I highly recommend. . . . Romance fans will be delighted with Chad and Lexi’s story, but The Marine’s Return is so much more than a typical romance. Sinara’s writing flows easily across the page, conveys rich and vivid characters and scenes, and captured me emotionally from the first page."


"This is a book that everyone should read. . . . This was a fun book to read, and I liked there was a lot of family in it. Even though it is part of a series, I did not feel as though I was missing any information, and was a great stand alone for me. . . . The ending was a great fit, and I enjoyed it"


"The Marine’s Return by Rula Sinara is fabulous. I thoroughly enjoyed the story, the characters, the setting, and family. Lexi and Chad are such beautiful characters, their story adds splendidly to the others in the From Kenya, With Love Series. I haven’t read the first five books but if I find the time I will be reading them. We are given a glimpse of the others throughout the story, and I fell in love with all of them."

E-Romance News - Excerpt

Lexi’s footsteps stopped suddenly. He turned and caught her wincing and touching her side. For a moment he was in Kabul, on one of his early missions, not far from the embassy. A car bomb had detonated and shots were being fired. Screams pierced the air. A woman was running down the street, trying to find shelter. He saw the bullet hit her. She grabbed her side and crumpled to the ground.

In less than five seconds he was at Lexi’s side with his arm around her back, helping her to ease down onto a small boulder.

“What’s wrong? Are you in labor?” He quickly dried his forehead against his shoulder.

“What? No! I’m okay. I just need to sit a minute.”

EmpowerMoms - Review

"I enjoyed reading about the culture and way of life and the different struggles and dangers they face there. . . . Good story line and characters! Clean romance. I enjoyed reading it!"

Becky on Books - Review

"Another winner! . . . I love each story in the From Kenya…with Love series–not only do the characters feel like old friends (a feat that they manage even if you haven’t read all–or any–of the other series books) but the setting is absolutely amazing. Even though I’ve never been to Kenya, I almost feel as if I have once I finish one of these books. The Marine’s Return is no exception to this rule! . . . I really enjoyed Chad and Lexi’s story. It’s a solid blend of relationship drama (past and present romantic relationships, as well as family ones) and situational."

Harlie's Books - Review

"The first book that I have read by this author; last book in the series; the setting is in Africa, and I really didn’t know what to expect. Well, let me tell you this book surprised me in ways that I never saw coming. Seriously. I read a lot of Heartwarming books but this one just grabbed me and wouldn’t let go. . . . I tell you this every time I read a Harlequin Heartwarming story, please read this line. Its character heavy, sweet/slow building romance that anyone can read and in the end finish with a smile on their face. I do every time and this time, I’m still thinking about it."


She was too aggravating and stone-headed.

And she thinks you’re good-looking.

Why did that matter? It didn’t. It shouldn’t. It was just that she’d never mentioned the scars on his face, his limp or his missing arm. She seemed to look right past all of it, and that got to him. Did he want her to notice? Did he need her to acknowledge what he’d been through and how he was suffering? He abhorred pity yet, at the same time, did he want it? Expect it?

He closed his eyes and exhaled. She wasn’t like everyone else. Something about her unsettled him. Perplexed him.

Remembrancy - Review

"With a touch of mystery, a second romance thread, and appearances from characters from the other books, Rula Sinara brings her series full circle while displaying the beauty and dangers of life in Africa."


"Chad and Lexi were great characters that I enjoyed getting to know. The story is one that was sweet, clean and heartwarming. It did tug at my heart at times, too. . . . Great read!"


"A great ending to the From Kenya, With Love series! . . . The story line was quickly entrenched in emotions and intrigue, and watching Chad and Lexi connect was rewarding. Getting to catch up with so many of the past members of the series was a wonderfully fitting ending. Absolutely loved it and sorry to see the series end!"


"If you haven’t read this series yet, you simply must. Start at the beginning for full effect, though each book can be read as a standalone. The Marine’s Return engages readers from start to finish, and Chad and Lexi’s multi-dimensional stories tug at the heart."

Hallie Reads - Review

"Take a trip to Kenya with Rula Sinara’s final From Kenya, With Love book, The Marine’s Return. It’s an adventure, full of romance and danger, that contemporary-romance readers shouldn’t want to miss."

Wishful Endings - Review

"THE MARINE'S RETURN takes readers to remote Africa as a woman tries to bring medical help to indigenous tribes and as a man tries to come to terms with his new reality after losing a limb serving in the military. The story is full of heart, conviction, friendship, family, and sweet romance. Recommended to fans of the series and of sweet romance. . . . This was a sweet story that tugged on my heart. An excellent ending to the series. I'm looking forward to more from this author!"

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

https://amzn.to/2G90ql9The Marine's Return
(From Kenya, with Love #6)
By Rula Sinara
Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 384 Pages
January 1st 2019 by Harlequin Heartwarming

He can’t be her hero…

But he made a promise to keep her safe

Wounded marine Chad Corallis just wants to be left alone. Until he discovers his best friend’s very pregnant widow is in danger. A dedicated nurse, she refuses to leave her Serengeti medical clinic when it’s threatened by poachers. Chad is honor-bound to protect her, but who will save him from falling for his best friend’s wife?


Other Books in the Series


About the Author


National and USA Today Bestselling author Rula Sinara lives in rural Virginia with her family and crazy but endearing pets. She loves organic gardening, attracting wildlife to her yard, planting trees, raising backyard chickens and drinking more coffee than she'll ever admit to. Rula's writing has earned her a National Readers Choice Award and HOLT Medallion Award of Merit, among other honors. You can discover more about Rula at her blog A Writer’s Rush, on Twitter, on Facebook as RulaSinaraAuthor or on her website www.RulaSinara.com, where you can also sign up for her newsletter.


Tour Giveaway


1 WINNER WILL RECEIVE:
- Autographed print copies of the first three books of the ‘From Kenya, With Love’ series – The Promise of Rain, After the Silence and Through the Storm.
- A set of three, 15x15in canvas tote bags featuring the first 3 covers of the ‘From Kenya, With Love’ series.
- A 12x18 Harlequin Heartwarming tote bag
- A ‘Teenie Beanie Baby’ (TY trademark) elephant named ‘Peanut’
- Bookmarks

Open internationally
Ends February 6, 2019

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