Review: One Little Kiss by Kaylee Baldwin

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

Synopsis

Tessa has her future planned to perfection. First get into medical school and become a doctor like everyone else in her family—despite her queasiness around blood. Second meet and marry someone who is just as successful as her brother—the new, handsome doctor in her ward will be just right. And last, prove to her brother that, despite what he thinks, she has it all together. Easy, right? Except that she’s just been called to be the ward road show director for the upcoming stake singles activity, a distraction she doesn’t need. And when a mix-up means that she’s partnered with her bug-eating, seventies dressing home teacher? It’s a disaster with a capital D, and she knows that no one in her family can ever find out about this.

As a PhD student studying insects, Henry White has had his fair share of girls try to change him into someone more socially acceptable—including his ex- fiancé. When his sister convinces him to join the singles ward for his last year of school, he decides to play up his oddness in order to keep the singles at a distance. When he begins to work with Tessa on the road show, he finds that she’s managed to get past his defenses. One little stage kiss is all it takes to make him question everything. But then his ex-fiancé comes home from her mission with one goal in mind: win Henry back, no matter what it takes.

Tessa is soon faced with a choice. Go for the perfect life she’s always pushed herself to have, or find the courage to look past appearances and figure out what she really wants.

My Review

This book was lots of fun to read! I couldn't help but like Tessa- flaws, mistakes, and all. She is misguided in her attempts to please and impress her family with a career choice and "perfect" boyfriend, but the dynamics of her family made me understand her choices. Like Henry, I just wanted her to open her eyes to follow the path that *she* wanted, but never allowed herself to even dream about. Her supportive friends balanced out the pressure she felt from her parents and complete jerk of  a brother. I really enjoyed her friendship with Henry, who also comes to a point of transition because of his relationship with Tessa. He's been hiding behind a facade of unattractiveness to repel women in order to protect his trampled-on heart, but Tessa quickly sees past that and appreciates the genuine and kind man he really is. Lots of drama (but not over the top) and angst, but the kind that has the reader feeling for the characters. The banter is fun, and the chemistry between Henry and Tessa is strong, making the romantic tension add to the feeling of anticipation as I read. Loved the ending!

Side note: The characters are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and there are some terms or references that may be unfamiliar for those not of the faith, but I think would not detract from understanding the story.

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

Review, Author Interview & Giveaway: The Spinster and I by Rebecca Connolly

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis


Poor, unfortunate Spinster...

Prudence Westfall, spinster, has unexpectedly had the greatest misfortune of all: she has inherited a fortune, and is now an heiress. But as a Spinster, and a stammering shy one, nothing could be worse than having a bevy of suitors pay her attention. Opportunity strikes at a house party when the most unlikely person offers the perfect solution.

Camden Vale is no gentleman, and he’s not prone to saving anyone, but something about Prue changes all that. When his offer to befriend her extends beyond the house party, and his feelings extend beyond expectation, no one is more surprised than he. Except, perhaps, for the other Spinsters, and they have much to say on the subject.


My Review

I loved Prue! She is so sweet and unassuming, and I couldn't help but root for her as she deals with her new circumstances- a status that puts her in the spotlight of society and the focus of fortune hunters, and a formerly neglectful mother who now takes too much interest and the verbal abuse that comes with it. The support of her friends is invaluable and essential to her journey of independence and self-confidence. The personalities of the Spinsters are each distinct and vibrant, and I loved coming back to the dynamics of their group. Camden is so charming, but in a likeable way- not over the top. He sees past Prue's stammering for who she truly is, and their friendship and developing romance was a pleasure to read. Another lovely Regency romance from Rebecca Connolly!

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

Author Interview 

Can you tell us a little about yourself? 

Sure! I’m an Indiana girl and just recently moved back (WOOHOO!) for a new job in orthopedic medicine. I’m a music lover, especially movie soundtracks and fabulous orchestra parts. Period dramas are hands down my favorite movies and TV shows, especially British ones! I drink hot chocolate all year wrong, collect blankets, eat raw cookie dough, and find sweats and hoodies to be the best clothing ever created. I teach 4 year olds at church, which is a riot, and love love LOVE being an aunt!

What do you do besides writing? 

Work! Haha, I work full time in the medical setting in an orthopedic department. I love to do anything with my family, even if it’s just hanging out on the couch and watching a movie. Long walks are fabulous, and, when I have time, I love to devour a good book!

Do you have images you can share that come close to how you picture your characters? Do you like to find visual inspiration for your characters before or during your writing process? 

Sure do! I love to find visual representation when I can. I usually start off with an idea, and sometimes that changes as I write. Or a new actor will comes across my path, and I’ll think,”Oh, maybe he/she would be better!” Here’s how I picture the main characters in The Spinster and I, Prue and Camden.

What are some songs that you listened to or inspired you while writing your book? 

Oh, this book had an AMAZING song for inspiration. I have never ever had a song be so perfect for a story. We All Need Saving by Jon McLaughlin. It seriously changed everything about this book. I also have selected songs from the soundtracks of Crimson Peak and Becoming Jane in there.

What message would you like readers to ultimately take away from the book? 

I want them to see the beauty in the deeper sides of these characters, to see how people can change, and to find value in the loyalty that these characters have for each other.

What can we look forward to coming from you in the future? 

Oh, lots! I have more in the Spinster Chronicles, a few more London League books, an exciting companion series to the London League, and an intriguing little series set in Cornwall coming in the next few years!

About the Author

 Rebecca Connolly writes romances, both period and contemporary, because she absolutely loves a good love story. She has been creating stories since childhood, and there are home videos to prove it! She started writing them down in elementary school and has never looked back. She currently lives in the Midwest, spends every spare moment away from her day job absorbed in her writing, and is a hot cocoa addict.

FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | WEBSITE

Giveaway

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Blog Tour & Giveaway: At First Glance by Susan L. Tuttle

Welcome to the Blog Tour & Giveaway for At First Glance by Susan L. Tuttle, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: At First Glance  
Author: Susan L. Tuttle  
Publisher: Bling! Romance (Lighthouse Publishing of the Carolinas)
Release Date: November 1, 2018  
Genre: Contemporary Romance  

When it comes to love and matters of the heart, she’s got a lot to learn.

Estate planner Penny Thornton loves dusting off items others gloss over, especially since she relates to feeling tossed aside for the “bright and shiny”. When her younger sister’s approaching wedding launches Penny back into the throes of her dysfunctional family, she decides to use the festivities to close the gap in their relationships—even if it means appeasing them and finally losing the few pounds they’ve hounded her about for years.

But she doesn’t expect to meet two very different men in the process. East Fisher, the personal trainer who personifies everything she believes she could never attain, and Jonah Black, a man who reminds her so much of herself. Both men are more than they appear at first glance, and both seem interested in her romantically.

As Penny uncovers their hidden layers, she discovers when it comes to love and matters of the heart, she’s got a lot to learn about estimating value.  

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon

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EXCERPT

Jonah straightened. “You look great.”

“Um … thanks.” Her hand instinctively touched her scar. In a rush she hadn’t covered it after her shower—something she rarely forgot. That very mark was the reason she hadn’t remained Mom’s belle. Without it covered, how could anyone pay her an honest compliment?

She followed him to his car where he unlocked her door and held it open, his gaze snagging hers again. “Our scars are a part of us, Penelope. Being vulnerable enough to show them only makes you more beautiful.” He tucked her inside, then he walked around and slid into the driver’s seat. “Leitzia’s?” Asked like he hadn’t just attempted to shred years of personal beliefs with two small sentences. 

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Susan L. Tuttle lives in the Mitten State where she’s a homeschooling mom of three and happily married to her best friend. Between raising her teens and leading the women’s ministry at church, she finds time to write. She’s firmly convinced that letters were meant for words, not math, and loves stringing them together into stories that inspire and encourage. Romance, laughter, and cookies are three of her favorite things, though not always in that order. Connect with Susan at http://www.susanltuttle.com.  

CONNECT WITH SUSAN: Website | Facebook | Twitter

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive (US only)

• an ARC copy of At First Glance
• $10 Amazon gift card
• book cozy from The Cozy Life
• cute bookmark

Enter via the Rafflecopter giveaway below. Giveaway will begin at midnight November 5, 2018 and last through 11:59pm November 12, 2018. US only. Winners will be notified within a week of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

E-book #SALE 99 cents for The Betting Groom by Taylor Hart

Grab your copy of The Betting Groom 

by Taylor Hart for just 99¢ today!

 

The Betting Groom

Last Play Christmas Romances: The Legendary Kent Brother Romances 

by Taylor Hart  

How much would you bet on true love this holiday season? 

After getting caught in a media frenzy at a charity event, Will Kent, Quarterback for the Denver Storm and five of his buddies found themselves in jail—with no one coming for them. After bemoaning their situation, Will challenges the guys to a Christmas Bet to find the woman they had always loved, the one who had gotten away…and kiss her by Christmas Eve. 

Tara Lighthouse never would have expected to find herself barefoot, on a ledge, in the middle of a snowstorm. But the recent divorce and the pregnancy test made her feel hopeless. After saying a prayer, she is shocked when Will Kent shows up at her door. And even more shocked when he offers to hire her as his PR consultant for the next four days. 

After playing Mr. and Mrs. Claus, buying Christmas for a bunch of children, skiing, and spilling secrets, both of them recognize something magic is happening between them. When the truth comes out, they are left with a choice: forgive or walk away from the only love they’ve ever wanted.    

From the Author 

Oh man, I can't even tell you how much I love Will! Not only is he fun, loving and generous-he's also...good. Really good. He has a depth that most people don't see in him because he keeps it hidden. And the love he has for Tara is inspiring! Cheers- Taylor

   

Praise from Readers 

Such a great story! She turned him down once but will she give him a second chance? Sweet romance at it's best. I’m rarely surprised by a Taylor Hart book because they are nearly always good...but this one took me by surprise...because it’s pure gold! 

Another Kent brother bites the dust in this 2nd chance love story. A sweet story of finding your HEA with your one true love. As someone who has loved, lost, and loved again, it's so nice to have stories that inspire the hope for those of us who have relationships that have ended in loss.

Grab your copy now!

 

#TFBRH Fall Colors

This book not only features fall colors on its cover, it is also has an autumn setting and the author does such a great job bringing the season to life through subtle descriptions.

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

Felicity Miner is not normally an anxious person, and she’s been on her own since high school. But after a shoplifter steals from her bookshop, she calls the cops. When Officer Leo Russo shows up, Felicity has to tell herself that just because the romance novel she’s been reading has a hero police officer doesn’t mean she needs to project her imagination onto the real man. Yes, Officer Russo is unexpectedly generous, and he helps make Felicity’s home more secure when her worries won’t settle down. But the more Felicity is around Officer Russo, the more she imagines a future between them. Is he merely doing his duty, protecting and serving the citizens of Pine Valley, or is there potential for something more?

My Review

The cover of this book may seem unassuming, but it is chock full of memorable characters with quirky and likeable mannerisms and personalities! As much as I enjoyed the other books in the Pine Valley series, I do believe this one is my favorite. Bookstores, bikes, hot chocolate, and autumn! What I loved most about Leo and Felicity is how genuine they are. As themselves, and with each other. They accepted one another for who they are- quirks, flaws, and everything. The flirting and banter was cute without being cheesy or cliche, and so fun to read. Leo and Felicity both have things they are struggling with, and come from very different families. I think that helped them give each other a new perspective when supporting and encouraging through the other's issues. I really connected to their emotions and it brought depth to the story and made the romance one full of anticipation and delight. This is one that I plan to read again for sure! Highly recommend!

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

Join the challenge here!

#TFBRC Heartbreaker

I loved all the beautiful angst and longing and frustration and anticipation in this lovely and unique book! Highly recommend!

Synopsis

Kate Worthington knows her heart and she knows she will never marry. Her plan is to travel to India instead—if only to find peace for her restless spirit and to escape the family she abhors. But Kate’s meddlesome mother has other plans. She makes a bargain with Kate: India, yes, but only after Kate has secured—and rejected—three marriage proposals.

Kate journeys to the stately manor of Blackmoore determined to fulfill her end of the bargain and enlists the help of her dearest childhood friend, Henry Delafield. But when it comes to matters of love, bargains are meaningless and plans are changeable. There on the wild lands of Blackmoore, Kate must face the truth that has kept her heart captive. Will the proposal she is determined to reject actually be the one thing that will set her heart free?

Set in Northern England in 1820, Blackmoore is a Regency romance that tells the story of a young woman struggling to learn how to follow her heart. It is Wuthering Heights meets Little Women with a delicious must-read twist.

Join the challenge here!

Review & Giveaway: The Gem Thief by Sian Ann Bessey

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

Gracie Miller is a small-town girl who has landed her dream job in New York City. As jewelry designer for one of the most prestigious jewelers in the world, she completed a particularly stunning piece, a custom setting for a large pink diamond. But when her billionaire client Mrs. Katsaros comes to repair a minor issue with the setting, Gracie is horrified to realize it is not the ring she created. Someone has forged her design, and the priceless diamond is gone.

Mrs. Katsaros has no desire to bring media attention to the jewelry heist, so she recruits her nephew, Quinn, and his FBI agent friend, Steve, to do some sleuthing off the record. When they discover that the missing ring is just one of many forgeries in the widow's collection, they look to Gracie for help. They need her to act the part of Quinn's fiancée. From the lights of New York to the shimmering islands of the Mediterranean, Gracie is swept into a thrilling hunt. But amid the search for the elusive thief, she and Quinn find themselves increasingly distracted by their growing feelings for each other. What neither realizes is how close the danger lies and how serious the vendetta is—because, apparently, it is worth killing for.

My Review

This romantic suspense book was just my speed. The author did a great job of letting me get to know the characters while also jump starting the plot. Gracie has a pretty amazing job as a fine jewelry designer in New York City, but she is also down to earth and genuine. I loved the world travel and seeing it through the eyes of Gracie for whom it's a first time experience. There is a perfect balance between the progressing relationship of Gracie and Quinn, and following the mystery of who is behind the stolen jewelry and forgeries. Quinn is a high-powered attorney, but appreciates Gracie for who she is and learns to bring some more balance into his life. I loved Quinn's aunt and her compassion and generosity. It was neat to see her and Gracie form a friendship throughout the journey as they support each other's vulnerabilities with their own strengths. There was a steady pace throughout the book with various climaxes as they draw closer to solving the case and the attraction between Gracie and Quinn blooms into romance. I was glued to the pages and finished the book with a happy sigh :)

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

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Nov 5: My Book a Day | Rockin' Book Reviews | Bonnie Gets a Say | Life is What It's Called

Nov 6: Brightly Street | Empower Moms | Heidi Reads... | Kindle & Me

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Nov 8: Singing Librarian Books | LDS and Lovin' It | Getting Your Read On

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