Saturday, August 17, 2019

Book Tour Grand Finale: Trusting Her Heart by Tara Randel #THHTour

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Book Tour Grand Finale for
Trusting Her Heart
By Tara Randel

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

Hello Readers! I’m so happy to be a part of this book tour featuring my newest Heartwarming novel, Trusting Her Heart, Book 3 in the Meet Me at the Altar series. The Matthews brothers are still hunting for information on the man their widowed mother is dating. They never expected their search would uncover so many secrets. . .


"You're on pins and needles while you're waiting for the big revelations to happen, because at the same time, you want Logan and Serena to be able to fall for each other in a big and honest way and to work things out. And I love the town of Golden. It sounds like a quaint place I wouldn't mind visiting one day. I am looking forward to more stories from here."


As they walked through town, it was all Logan could do not to take her hand in his. This wasn’t a date, he had to keep reminding himself. He suspected she had information about the man he’d been hired to investigate. He needed to keep his wits about him. Yes, Serena was beautiful, but she clearly had secrets he needed to ferret out.

As they passed the park, fireflies flitted about in the entrance. Serena laughed, clearly enchanted.

“Oh, my goodness.” She pulled her phone from her back pocket. “I have always wanted to do a series of cards featuring fireflies.” After snapping a few pictures, she scrolled through the gallery. “I can’t think of anything more beautiful than twinkling lights coming from these tiny creatures.”


"Trusting Her Heart is entertaining and endearing, with a town full of characters I can’t wait to spend more time with. The romance simmers with chemistry and tension, and the first kiss is hold-your-breath sweet. Randel weaves a theme of trust, belonging, friendship and family into a layered plot that will keep you absorbed in the story until you’ve reached the end. I look forward to more time with this series, the town, and the characters!"

Heidi Reads... - Excerpt

Serena pointed down. “Turned ankle.”

He kneeled down before her, his hand lightly grazing her skin as he examined the injured joint. An unwanted but undeniable shiver rushed over her. Good grief, he was only being a concerned citizen.

“I’m fine,” she told him, trying to shift away as his warm fingers palpated the bone.

“You should probably have it checked out,” he said, rising when he got the hint she didn’t want him in her personal space.


"I adored this story!!

Tara has done a wonderful job writing it. She has done an excellent job of bringing to life these wonderful characters and their feelings. Serena's especially. You could feel her fear of being found out oozing out of the book and hitting you head on. So you definitely know that there's going to be a great story here. . . . I strongly recommend this book."


"Randel is absolutely awesome with her work. Her characters, both main and secondary are wonderfully chiseled and come to life within the pages. Her ability to make the reader feel a true part of the story is incredible and I recommend this heart warming, captivating, romantic read. . ."


“What’s got her upset?” Carrie asked as she walked into their circle.

“Green-eyed monster,” Heidi quipped.

Serena sputtered over a denial that didn’t quite reach her tongue.

Carrie peered at the guests, not having to be told the topic of the conversation was Logan. “He’s not interested in her.”

Despite herself, Serena asked, “How can you tell?”

“Because I sat across the table from you two and trust me, Logan only had eyes for you.”

Hallie Reads - Review

"Trusting Her Heart is a sweet story of family and friendship, home and hope. I thoroughly enjoyed this trip to charming Golden, Georgia with Serena and Logan, and I think other readers of contemporary romance will, too. Add it to the TBR!"


"What gives you the best joy of course is watching how Ms Randel knits her characters closer together at moments where they'd prefer to remain isolated, alone and single. She doesn't let them root there in their own self-pity, but rather attempts to push them towards the people who have unconditional love to share and friendship which will last longer than a rumour. This is a series that is about working through your problems, trusting in yourself to have the change to repair the past and finding a place as calm as Golden to renew your spirit as you redefine your path."


As they walked through town, it was all Logan could do not to take her hand in his. This wasn’t a date, he had to keep reminding himself. He suspected she had information about the man he’d been hired to investigate. He needed to keep his wits about him. Yes, Serena was beautiful, but she clearly had secrets he needed to ferret out.

As they passed the park, fireflies flitted about in the entrance. Serena laughed, clearly enchanted.

“Oh, my goodness.” She pulled her phone from her back pocket. “I have always wanted to do a series of cards featuring fireflies.” After snapping a few pictures, she scrolled through the gallery. “I can’t think of anything more beautiful than twinkling lights coming from these tiny creatures.”


"If you enjoy Heartwarming Romance with family, friendships, and some good laughs then read this book. Some of life’s trials feel unbreakable. Some hard times have to be pushed through. Trusting Her Heart by Tara Randel is a wonderful read full of the ups and downs of life."


“I always loved Golden this time of year,” he said.

Grandmother turned in her chair to look at him. “You could love it again, you know.”

“I don’t see that happening.”

“Really? And what about Serena? Could she make you love living here again?”

He sent a sideways glance to his crafty grandmother. “Not very subtle.”

“I’m beyond subtle. I adore Serena. I see you two falling love.”

If only she knew he was halfway there.

Remembrancy - Review

"Family, friendship, and finding a place to truly call home (a place where you are surrounded by people who love you no matter what your past mistakes) are themes that run throughout Trusting Her Heart. The romance is sweet and intense, and Randel brings more characters onto the page who I hope to get to know better in future books."

E-Romance News - Excerpt

“Good night,” she said, slipping behind the wheel.

As she drove away, he was conscious of the prickly awareness he’d tried to dismiss ever since he’d met her. There was something about her he couldn’t ignore. An energy that drew him to her despite his good intentions to keep it purely professional between them. His instincts, however, told him she was going to be nothing but trouble.

Pause for Tales - Review

"I really enjoyed watching these two characters on their road to happily ever after and all the side characters just added that specialness: especially Grandmother. This was a sweet romance in a small town with a bit of family drama that made for a nice escape."

Splashes of Joy - Review

"There’s a lot going on in this book. Of course romance, but it was pretty light on the Romance, a little suspense added in, and the cozy little town where everyone knew everyone else. And they were ok with it. I really enjoyed this read, and I encourage you to pick up a copy for yourself. I think you will enjoy it as much as I did."


"I loved the grandmother in this book. She enjoyed playing matchmaker. Serena has a shop, and Logan grandmother works there. She is trying to play matchmaker between them."


Logan’s gaze wandered to Blue Ridge Cottage of its own volition. He wondered if Serena was involved with the guild. Would she be at the tea party? If so, he could use the opportunity to question her some more.

Or simply enjoy her company.

Yeah, there was that.


"Such an amazing book, with so much sweet passion and romance! . . . Her characterization is amazing and I really fell in love with Serena and Logan. If you love a really sweet romance, then this is the book for you!"

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

Trusting Her Heart
(Meet Me at the Altar #3)
By Tara Randell
Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 384 Pages
August 1st 2019 by Harlequin Heartwarming

Can a love built on lies…

…survive the truth?

Serena Stanhope fears her dark past might ruin the life she’s built as a successful shop owner. Especially when handsome Logan Masterson suddenly arrives in town asking questions about her background. He seems to have his own secrets, but the pair share an instant connection and Serena finds herself falling for Logan. He could destroy everything—or he could be the chance at love she thought she’d never have…


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


Prize #1: Signed print copies of The Bridal Bouquet, The Lawman's Secret Vow, and Rival Hearts, tote bag, water bottle and $25 Amazon Gift Card. (Open to US only)

Prize #2: $25 Amazon e-Gift Card (Open Internationally)

Ends August 21, 2019

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Grab Our Button!





Wednesday, August 14, 2019

Review: Kissing on Third by Heather B. Moore, Rebecca Connolly, Sophia Summers


https://amzn.to/2XlRAsw

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

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

Synopsis

His past will never go away. Hers has left deep scars. Together, maybe they can build something new.

Levi Cox carved his baseball game out of the dirt. The hard way. Bouncing between foster homes as a kid, and trying everything he could do to protect his kid brother from bullies, Levi backs down from no one and has a record to prove it. Baseball has given him a purpose and a career. A way to provide for his brother. When Levi meets Finley Gray, he finds things happening to his heart that he never thought possible. She has her own broken past, using boxing as her outlet. Yet the more Levi gets to know Finley, the more he’s convinced they belong together. Breaking through Finley’s tough exterior might be Levi’s hardest challenge ever. But he has a feeling it will be more than worth it.


My Review

The tough exteriors of both these athletes hide their vulnerabilities, but together they allow each other to explore their deeper feelings, not just of a romantic nature, but the issues they are struggling with. I appreciated how genuine Levi is with Finley, even with his charming lines- he is sincere about them. He's not a player since he's been so focused on his career and brother, which made me like him even more. He's hesitant to move too fast for Finley, but the advice of his baseball brothers help him see that he shouldn't play it too cool. I admired the determination of both of them to go after what they want. A satisfying conclusion to the Belltown Sixpack series! These books can be easily read in any order- don't miss them!

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



Welcome to Belltown! Six baseball players meet in the college town of Belltown, Massachusetts, becoming best friends, their lives intertwining as they each get called up to the Major Leagues.


https://amzn.to/2EEdT2m

Follow Sawyer, Cole, Axel, David, Ryker, and Levi in these six swoony sports romances.

Belltown Six Pack Series:
 

Hitching the Pitcher
Falling for Centerfield
Charming the Shortstop
Snatching the Catcher
Flirting with First
Kissing on Third






Review: Just One Kiss by Courtney Walsh


https://amzn.to/2SSepiY

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

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

Synopsis

He broke her heart. Now, he’s back, and he’s determined to show her what they had isn’t over. . . and he can prove it with just one kiss.

Single mother Carly Collins likes predictability. However, when her son Jaden’s health is threatened, her neatly controlled world is tossed into a tailspin. Nothing is certain anymore, especially her feelings for Josh Dixon, Jaden’s father, her first love and the man responsible for shattering her heart sixteen years ago.

When Josh Dixon walked out of Harbor Pointe, he left behind his only shot at a real family. Now a successful tech mogul, the town rebel has found a cause—ensure his son’s recovery and prove to Carly and Jaden that he’s not the same guy he was back then.

Carly and Josh are forced to wade through messy emotions and questions that have gone unanswered for years, which would be easier if not for the pesky feelings, every bit as strong and impossible to ignore as they ever were.

Will forgiveness win, giving Carly and Josh a second chance at love . . . or will the past prove too much to overcome?

A small town romance about first love second chances and how our most beautiful life might look nothing like we planned.


My Review

A perfect second chance romance! A wonderful balance of character development, angst, humor, and romance. I loved the way the details of the characters were revealed little by little as the story unfolded. It provided a sense of anticipation as I read and I couldn't wait for the next little twist that propelled Carly and Josh closer together again. Their son Jaden was a strong element with not only his amiable personality and health dilemma, but his faithfulness and willingness to encourage his parents to seek a relationship with God. There is a powerful theme of forgiveness and grace, not just for others but for oneself. I always appreciate the depth in this author's stories!

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


Review: Timeless Regency Collection: A Week in Brighton by Jennifer Moore, Annette Lyon, Donna Hatch


https://amzn.to/2YFPOik

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

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

Synopsis

Every woman dreams of love, but is a week in Brighton long enough to find happily ever after?

THE GRANDE HOTEL BY THE SEA by Jennifer Moore
After years of planning, Arthur Grande’s vision for a luxury hotel in Brighton is finally becoming a reality. But unlike the rest of the town, Daphne Dayley isn’t taken in by the newcomer’s cheerful smile or generous nature. She sees only a wealthy opportunist threatening to close her parents’ bakery. With the lease expiring in one week, the two clash in a battle of wills and wits. But they both come to discover that ambitions which had once seemed so clear may evolve when hearts are softened.

SIGNS OF LOVE by Annette Lyon
When the Hughes family vacations in Brighton, Julia goes exploring for fossils along the Undercliff path—a hobby she’s developed thanks to her curiosity in science. Instead of finding fossils, she stumbles upon Silas Hayward, a handsome wine smuggler, and one of his crew. She slips away undetected but is intrigued by Hayward and drawn to him later at a ball held at the Royal Pavilion. Her long-time friend Andrew is in love with Julia and declares his heart to her at the ball. She’s stunned and doesn’t know how to answer, but right then, Mr. Hayward conveniently takes her away to the dance floor. The distraction is brief, however; Julia quickly learns that the Hayward is far more than a harmless wine smuggler: he’s a traitor to the nation. If she can’t stop his plot with Andrew’s help, the country will fall to Napoleon.

THE RELUCTANT HEIR by Donna Hatch
Angry and grieving over his brother’s sudden death, Rowan turns his attention to finding his late brother’s long-lost love so he can personally inform her of the tragedy. One problem: he only has a lock of her hair, a miniature painting of her eye, and the name “Ann” as clues to her identity. With far-reaching dreams of being a renowned artist, Isabella has one shot at becoming one of the few women to be accepted as a student under a local art master. But when she encounters a mysterious gentleman searching for his late brother’s love, her heart tugs on her to help the lost soul. Helping him may mean sacrificing her dreams, and worse—falling in love with a man she cannot have.


My Review

I loved the seaside setting of Brighton in these sweet stories! They were each unique and drew me in quickly. The characters were compelling and I enjoyed their emotions as they interacted with each other and fell in love.

The first story, The Grande Hotel by the Sea, is an enemies to lovers story, with Arthur charming Daphne against her will. I liked how they became unlikely friends, even as she felt set adrift by the closing of her bakery thanks to his hotel. I loved the way he had to let her go in order for her to come back to him.

Signs of Love was full of intrigue and suspense, and Julia's impulsive nature leads her to discover a treacherous plot that she feels compelled to derail. Andrew is so sweet and I felt bad that he had to wait until Julia was done sleuthing before receiving an answer to his declaration of love, but the rewards of their service made it worth the wait.

I especially enjoyed The Reluctant Heir as I learned about a new snippet of history- that if someone had a secret love, they would carry a picture of just their eye so they would not be identifiable. Rowan and Isabella follow clues together to solve the mystery and they develop a lovely friendship that turns to more.

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


Review: Brentwood's Ward by Michelle Griep


https://amzn.to/2LLh0KN

My rating: 3 stars / I liked it

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

Synopsis

“I suppose I can’t expect to keep you under lock and key. You’re hardly a criminal.  .  . are you?”   

It takes a criminal to catch one, and Nicholas Brentwood is just the man for the job. Reformed in more ways than one, the rough-around-the-edges Brentwood is a member of the Bow Street Runners, London’s early nineteenth-century fledgling police force. There’s none better than Brentwood at catching the felons who ravage the city’s streets, and there’s nothing he loves more than seeing justice served.  Beautiful and beguiling, Miss Emily Payne is not the sort of miscreant Brentwood usually hunts down. When he is assigned as her bodyguard, he vows to protect her from her father’s enemies, who will stop at nothing to carry out their mission fueled by greed and revenge.
       
All her life, Emily has longed for love, but it remains beyond her grasp. This season she’s determined to find a husband, which is quite the undertaking with a hound-dog guardian like Brentwood watching her every step. If he would just give her some measure of freedom, she is sure she could win the heart of society’s most eligible bachelor.

Emily’s headstrong persistence challenges Nicholas in ways he doesn’t expect but of one thing he’s certain—of all the cunning criminals he’s dealt with in the past, this time he’s met his match.

My Review

An exciting story with two characters who drive each other crazy... until they don't ;) I had a difficult time with Emily in the beginning because of her attitude, but as her past was slowly revealed, I grew to understand her a bit more. I enjoy stories set during the Regency era but delve into the lives of those not placed high in Society. It's always a little more gritty, but also interesting and eye-opening to the way of life back then.

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



Don't miss the following books in the Bow Street Runners series . . .

https://amzn.to/2SJOfPlhttps://amzn.to/2ymNja0



Monday, August 12, 2019

Book Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway: Trusting Her Heart by Tara Randel #THHTour


On Tour with Prism Book Tours

https://amzn.to/2GWHYuXTrusting Her Heart
(Meet Me at the Altar #3)
By Tara Randel
Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 384 Pages
August 1st 2019 by Harlequin Heartwarming

Can a love built on lies…

…survive the truth?

Serena Stanhope fears her dark past might ruin the life she’s built as a successful shop owner. Especially when handsome Logan Masterson suddenly arrives in town asking questions about her background. He seems to have his own secrets, but the pair share an instant connection and Serena finds herself falling for Logan. He could destroy everything—or he could be the chance at love she thought she’d never have…


Excerpt


Serena pointed down. “Turned ankle.”
He kneeled down before her, his hand lightly grazing her skin as he examined the injured joint. An unwanted but undeniable shiver rushed over her. Good grief, he was only being a concerned citizen.
“I’m fine,” she told him, trying to shift away as his warm fingers palpated the bone.
“You should probably have it checked out,” he said, rising when he got the hint she didn’t want him in her personal space.
“It’s not bad. I’ve injured it before so I can tell. A little bit of ice, ibuprofen and keeping my foot up should do the trick.”
He didn’t look convinced. “You’re sure?”
“Positive.” She’d been taking care of herself for a very long time. This minor setback was no different. “What’re you doing here so early?”
“Grandmother needed a report from me. Thought I’d beat the city traffic and drive up here early.”
Was that his only reason? His unwavering attention had her guard up big-time, which was a shame. If she was going to blow her life up over a guy, Logan would make it really easy.
“Why don’t I help you get home.”
She waved him off. “It’s right here.”
He looked up. “So, you’re living over the store?”
“Yes. The apartment was empty and your grandmother was kind enough to let me move in.”
“That’s Grandmother. Always looking out for others.” His gaze caught hers, full of meaning. “That’s why I look out for her.”
Warning received. “Then we can both agree, your grandmother is special.”
His intense expression softened and a smile played around his mouth. It lit up his entire face and almost put her at ease. Almost. It was his body language that had Serena deciding to call this conversation quits.
“So, I’m going to go upstairs to get ready for work.” She inched from her position. “Thanks for checking on me.”
One dark eyebrow rose. “No way I’m going to leave you alone. I’ll follow to make sure you’re okay.”
Her inner defenses reared. “Really, go do your thing.”
He stood his ground.
“Stubborn man,” she muttered under her breath as she resumed her wobbly journey to her apartment.
“Did you say something?”
“How thoughtful of you,” she said over her shoulder.
Her reply earned her a burst of laughter.
She straightened her shoulders and gripped the railing. After only two steps, Logan swooped in beside her, his strong arm wrapped around her waist. She shot him a cool stare despite the riot going on in her stomach. He smelled way too good and was way too close for her peace of mind.
“What do you think you’re doing?”
“I can’t watch you struggle. It’s too painful.”
Her voice rose as she said, “I’m the one who twisted my ankle.”
“And I’m the person who is going to make sure you don’t fall down the stairs.”
She held back an eye roll. “I’m capable.”
“No one said you weren’t.” His voice caressed her skin as his breath wafted over her cheek.
Torture. Beautiful torture. Why did she respond to this man the way she did?





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 Schedule



Tour Giveaway


Prize #1: Signed print copies of The Bridal Bouquet, The Lawman's Secret Vow, and Rival Hearts, tote bag, water bottle and $25 Amazon Gift Card. (Open to US only)

Prize #2: $25 Amazon e-Gift Card (Open Internationally)

Ends August 21, 2019

a Rafflecopter giveaway
Grab Our Button!