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...

Christy's Cozy Corners - Review

"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."

underneath the covers - Excerpt

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.

Rockin' Book Reviews - Review

"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."

Hearts & Scribbles - Excerpt

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."

The Power of Words - Review

"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."

Deal Sharing Aunt - Review

"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"

Baroness Book Trove - Review

"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."

Book Reviews & More by Kathy - Excerpt

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."

Locks, Hooks and Books - Review

"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!"

Thoughts of a Blonde - Review

"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!"

Reading Is My SuperPower - Review

"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...

The 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?

Goodreads│Amazon│B&N│Harlequin│iBooks│Kobo

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.

Website│Blog│Goodreads│Facebook│Twitter│Pinterest

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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Review & Giveaway: The Warrior Maiden by Melanie Dickerson

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

Synopsis

She knows women are expected to marry, cook, and have children, not go to war. Can she manage to stay alive, save her mother, and keep the handsome son of a duke from discovering her secret?

When Mulan takes her father's place in battle against the besieging Teutonic Knights, she realizes she has been preparing for this journey her whole life-and that her life, and her mother's, depends on her success. As the adopted daughter of poor parents, Mulan has little power in the world. If she can't prove herself on the battlefield, she could face death-or, perhaps worse, marriage to the village butcher.

Disguised as a young man, Mulan meets the German duke's son, Wolfgang, who is determined to save his people even if it means fighting against his own brother. Wolfgang is exasperated by the new soldier who seems to be one step away from disaster at all times-or showing him up in embarrassing ways.

From rivals to reluctant friends, Mulan and Wolfgang begin to share secrets. But war is an uncertain time and dreams can die as quickly as they are born. When Mulan receives word of danger back home, she must make the ultimate choice. Can she be the son her bitter father never had? Or will she become the strong young woman she was created to be?

This fresh reimagining of the classic tale takes us to fifteenth-century Lithuania where both love and war challenge the strongest of hearts.

My Review

At first I thought this book would follow the story of Mulan close to the Disney version, but I soon realized that this retelling would take new twists and turns that brought a new life and energy to the story. I loved the different backstory to Mulan and her family, and the interesting political dynamics between the different powers of the region that are embroiled in conflict. The ugliness of war is realistically portrayed without being overly graphic, but it made me grateful for how times and society has changed, especially in attitudes toward women. I was glad that there was plenty of story before Wolfgang discovers Mulan is female, and also plenty of story after. They had great chemistry first as brief rivals, then as friends, then as more. The pacing was well-balanced with the exciting action and moments of reflection and connection between Mulan and those around her. Family dynamics are a strong theme with Wolfgang's struggles with his brother, and Mulan's loyalty to her mother and complicated relationship with her father. I admired Mulan's faith, courage, and determination as she fought for her country's allies and learned more about herself and what she wants out of life. Highly recommend to fans of clean romance, fairy tale retellings, or medieval fiction.

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

Melanie Dickerson is a New York Times bestselling author, a two-time Christy Award finalist, two-time Maggie Award winner, Carol Award winner, two-time winner of the Christian Retailing's Best award, and her book, The Healer's Apprentice, won the National Readers Choice Award for Best First Book. She is a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and Romance Writers of America (RWA). Melanie earned a bachelors degree in special education of the hearing impaired from The University of Alabama and has worked as a teacher in Georgia, Tennessee, and Ukraine. She lives with her husband and two children in Huntsville, Alabama.

Website | Goodreads | Twitter | Facebook | Pinterest | Instagram

Prize: Win (1) physical copy of THE WARRIOR MAIDEN by Melanie Dickerson (US ONLY) or e-copy for (INT)

Giveaway Starts: 30^th January, 2019

Giveaway Ends: 13^th February, 2019

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Click here to see the full tour schedule

Spotlight, Sale & Giveaway: The No Regrets Groom by Taylor Hart

 

The No Regrets Groom by Taylor Hart  

Last Play Masquerade Football Romances  

A hot football player and a bet--what more could you want for Valentine's day? 

Ziggy Brady, center for the Denver Storm, doesn't expect to dance with the woman who broke his heart ten years ago. But a bet issued by the owner of the Storm, is the catalyst for asking her. He certainly can't believe she slaps him, and he really doesn't know what to do when she throws in his face the fact her boyfriend is proposing later that night. The truth, is that Sophia Charles will always be his biggest regret. 

Sophia Charles doesn't want to dance with Ziggy Brady at a fundraiser; but his brother has ALS and she actually likes Ty. Ziggy, on the other hand, has serious ego issues and the media doesn't help them by calling him Aquaman. When Ziggy shows up at her office asking her to go on a 'bucket list' trip for Ty to help create awareness and raise money to find a cure for ALS, she reluctantly agrees. The No Regrets Tour consists of: driving cross country in a Retro RV, visiting an old Prison, staying at a Haunted Mansion, rafting the Snake River, and putting Graffiti Art on Devil's Tower -which will most-likely land them in jail. 

Sophia and Ziggy find themselves unable to stay away from one another. When Ty confesses to writing a bogus break up letter from Ziggy to Sophia ten years ago, all the reasons they should stay away from one another melt away. And they find themselves, laughing and talking and kissing and catching up for all the time they missed out on. When Ty has a break down and the tour comes to a halt, they must make a choice--walk away from it all or forgive and have No Regrets! 

 

From Taylor: 

Ziggy might be one of my favorite characters because he's been so broken by losing the love of his life the past ten years. Through misunderstandings and intentional attacks, they never got their chance until now! And watching their love story unwind was--gooey and swoony and so much fun! I hope you love this second chance love story as much as I did! Also, the Brady Brothers have a holy path to walk. One where they unite together for their brother, Ty, recently diagnosed with ALS. This disease is near and dear to my heart because I recently had a friend pass away from it. And my friend--changed my life by showing me how to better follow the Savior's example through her smile in the face of heartache. Through her devotion when no one would have blamed her for falling apart. I miss her. And I hope more awareness will be created through my books. More empathy. More hope. More faith. And eventually a cure! Thank you for reading and thank you for your love!  

A portion of the proceeds of this book will be donated to finding a cure for ALS.

   

Praise for The No Regrets Groom 

Grab a box of tissues and get ready for tears and plenty of laughter! I’ve totally fallen for the Brady family-you get to know a little bit more of all of them in The No Regrets Groom. I’m looking forward to all of their stories with eager anticipation! Ziggy and Sophia’s love story is beautiful and romantic, crazy and laugh out loud fun, and inspiring with it’s lovely message of forgiveness, family, grace, and second chances. There is a wonderful theme running through this book that everything will happen, as it is supposed to, in God’s perfect timing. I giggled and sniffled through this book along with all of the wonderful characters, and in the end, despite having to stop multiple times to wipe my eyes, at the end of the book I’m smiling. I LOVED the ending!!!! ~Sarah Sarber 

The No Regrets Groom is a sweet romance about a couple that loved each other in their school days, but due to family meddling are separated for years. Taylor Hart writes a fun and moving love story about them. The books also deals with ALS, and somehow, Ms. Hart manages to give it the seriousness that it calls for, while writing a beautiful romance. I loved the camaraderie and solidarity of the football teammates and of the Brady brothers. There is amazing forgiveness illustrated in the story. I love the idea of living such a life as to have no regrets. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this well-written story. ~LGS

   

Giveaway Details $20 Amazon Gift Code or $20 in PayPal Cash Ends 2/17/19 Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by Rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner may be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Amazon, BookBub, Instagram, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. This giveaway was organized by Kathy from Clean Wholesome Romance and is sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. 

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Forever Yours Event: Author Reina M. Williams, Sale & Giveaway

 

  

 Italian Honeymoon by Reina M. Williams 

Get whisked away on a sweet, romantic European vacation with the Lovestruck Billionaires! When love strikes, these billionaires must risk their most valuable assets--their hearts. 

Julia Ross can't believe her sister is married. They'd promised each other they'd stay single, but now it's just Julia, facing another change in her well-ordered life. And then there's the groom's brother, Romeo, who wants to change even more--he and his family want to compete with her family's restaurants, and entice her to work for them. But nothing about Romeo Bianchi is enticing...until he proposes. 

Romeo Bianchi likes to shake things up--on his terms--and a fake wedding to Julia Ross seems like the perfect opportunity to rattle both of their families. But when their pretend marriage causes real problems, the two decide to face them together, until love strikes and Julia runs scared. Then they both have to decide if change is a price they're willing to pay for their happily ever after. 

  

      

 

She set her glass on a nearby table and brushed her hands, as if to rid herself of this stuck feeling. She needed to do something. She needed a change.

Maybe it was time to plan starting her own restaurant. But not at this moment. Since she’d already said her congrats and all to the happy couple, she headed upstairs to the bridesmaids’ room, where she and Elissa and Zoe had gotten ready before the ceremony earlier.

When she got to the elevator and pressed the button, Danton’s younger brother, Romeo, sauntered up to her, a drink in hand.

“Jules, leaving the party?” He downed the rest of his drink and set the glass on the floor.

Ugh. No consideration. And only her sister and Elissa’s best friend, Zoe, called her Jules. Where did this guy get off? He and his ruthless family could all rot. She crossed her arms and clenched her jaw. She had to be polite, for Elissa’s sake. At least he wasn’t bad to look at, all lean and athletic looking, but deceptively boyish, with that stupid cute smile and dimple in his left cheek.

So she’d eyed him during the ceremony. Checking out the enemy was all. Romeo’s family seemed to have it in for Dad, and she had no idea why. As usual, Dad was closed-mouth about the situation. She tightened her arms against her chest.

Supposedly, Danton had made them stop the takeover attempts. That didn’t excuse Romeo and his family, especially since now there were rumors that they were planning to scoop up some properties in the area to open rival restaurants.

They boarded the elevator. Romeo gave her that stupid smile and asked her what floor. She pushed the button herself. He shrugged, but didn’t push a button. Oh, great. He was either on the same floor or planning on following her. Well, she knew the head of security here, so he’d better watch himself. The doors closed and they glided up.

Romeo looked at her again. Shoot, he had fine eyes, all bluish-grey, like her favorite storm clouds over the city…and fine pecs, and broad shoulders, and, yes, he was fine. But she wasn’t minding that, not one bit.

Ugh. She better watch herself—more like check her eyesight if she couldn’t see right through Romeo Bianchi.

    

 

Praise for Reina's books: 

"This is the sort of story I would happily recommend to my mum or grandma, or even a teenage reader.” ~Long and Short Reviews 

“I recommend if you’re looking for something lighthearted.”~Kathleen, Amazon review 

“A wonderful afternoon read with a cuppa and a few iced tea biscuits....” ~Susanne, Meditative Meanderings 

“All the stories had lovely themes of opening and awakening – whether it is to new possibilities, love, or a new path in life. …for those who enjoy sweet and light-hearted reads these novellas are a perfect fit!” ~Meredith, Austenesque Reviews 

    

   

  

 

Author Reina M. Williams 

Reina M. Williams writes sweet romance with a touch of sass, from Austenesque series to contemporary twists on fairy tales. When she's not writing or spending time with her sons, you're most likely to find her watching a period drama or Disney movie, walking in a park, baking, or reading. A California native, she lives in the San Francisco Bay Area.   

  

  

 

    

  

  

 

Giveaway Details $25 Amazon Gift Code or $25 in PayPal Cash Ends 2/19/19 Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by Rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner may be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Amazon, BookBub, Instagram, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. This giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader & Clean Wholesome Romance and is sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.  

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