Friday, February 15, 2019

Review: Heart of Red, Blood of Blue by Rebecca Belliston


Heidi Reads... Heart of Red, Blood of Blue by Rebecca Belliston

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

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

Synopsis

A girl on the run. A kingdom to save.

Princess Gisela of Steinland was born without color. Albino. To add to this curse, her betrothal to Prince Jerrik of Kronga ends in his death and starts a ten-year-war her father is determined to win, even if it means bringing her out of hiding to do it. Now the savage Krongon war commander, Bloodless Kristoff, seeks the hearts of the entire royal family, especially Gisela's.

Desperate, her father agrees to another alliance that involves her marrying an old brute of a king. Unwilling to be the sacrificial lamb, Gisela goes on the run. Thrown into the center of a battle between three kingdoms, she finds herself fighting for her life and the right to be truly loved.

Can the girl who started the war find a way to end it?


My Review

Epic, intense, full of adventure, deception, and character growth! I especially loved seeing Gisela discovering her flaws and rising to the challenges before her to realize her inner strength. The plot is strong with the politics and dynamics of kingdoms, greedy kings, evil assassins, commanders of armies, the commoners they either oppress or support, and the women who must stand strong despite the injustice running rampant. I was never confused or overwhelmed by the details, even when there is a bit of mystery or suspense because we are seeing things through Gisela's limited perspective only, which I enjoyed. I felt like there was a great balance between the relationships, the action, and revealing the big picture little by little. There is romance which of course I loved, and Gisela learns important but hard lessons about trust, loyalty, and the characteristics of genuine love. I was enthralled the entire time and was pleasantly surprised with the twists and turns on Gisela's journey from an isolated and naive princess to a powerful force that directly influences the fate of the kingdoms and the outcome of the war. I know this will be one of my favorites of the year, and *highly* recommend!

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


Book Tour, Excerpt & Giveaway: His Honor, Her Family by Tara Randell

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

His Honor, Her Family
(Meet Me at the Altar #2)
By Tara Randell
Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 384 Pages
February 5th 2019 by Harlequin Heartwarming Large Print

She could be The One

If he’ll let her in.

The rustic mountain town of Golden, Georgia, is the ideal place for crime scene investigator Deke Matthews to heal after a tragedy left him questioning everything. But there’s another reason he’s here, and moonlighting as an adventure guide provides the perfect cover. It doesn’t include falling for his boss. Attorney Grace Harper is back in Golden only long enough to save her family business. Just when Deke has found the woman to share his life with...


Excerpt


Suddenly nervous, she hesitated. What if he wouldn’t hear her out? Had decided she was too much trouble? That he was much more suited for the solitary life? What would she do then?

He turned. Took a step, saw her and froze.

Taking a huge breath, she pressed a hand against her stomach and powered forward. It was now or never to change her future. Their future, if he’d listen.

A flash of surprise lit his eyes. “Grace. What’re you doing here?”

“I had to get out of Atlanta for a while.”

One dark brow arched. “Problems?”

“Clarity.”

He pulled his hands from his pockets and crossed his arms over his chest, legs planted in a wide stance. “You’ll have to explain.”

She licked her lips. “Uncle Roy called. Told me you were leaving.”

Shrugging, he looked away. “There’s really nothing here for me now.”

“And that’s where you’re wrong.”

His eyes swung back and pierced hers. “Enlighten me.”

She took a step closer. Inhaled his familiar scent. Didn’t want to go a day without him in her life ever again. “I’ve been under the misguided impression that I’m in control of the universe. It took one brave man to point out how totally outlandish and mistaken I was.”

His lips curved just the slightest bit.

“Being at a big firm was the dream, Deke. Until I realized that some dreams are really excuses.” She paused, searching for the right words. “I needed an excuse to leave Golden because if I didn’t have one, I’d never go. I’d never try. I’d never see what was out there. It wasn’t about the job, although I do love my career. It was about being away from Golden, so that I could fully realize how much I’d miss it.”

“You miss Golden?”

“Every day.” She stepped around him and waved her hand in the air, the gesture encompassing the lake and mountains. “It didn’t click until you reminded me just how beautiful my home really is. How there’s a simplicity in being in tune with nature.” She turned to look at him. “You also made me see I’m not the boss of everyone, and to be truthful, I don’t want to be.”
Arms still crossed tight, he asked, “So what are you suggesting?”


Other Books in the Series

The Lawman's Secret Vow
(Meet Me at the Altar #1)
By Tara Randell
Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 384 Pages
August 1st 2018 by Harlequin Heartwarming

To have and to hold—

until the case is solved?

When an undercover assignment pairs laid-back Florida detective Dante Matthews with by-the-book cop Eloise Archer, he knows it won’t be easy. And not just because they’re competing for the same promotion. Now they’re living together under the same roof, and it’s getting harder to ignore his deepening feelings for his “wife.” Can he convince Eloise to partner up—for life?


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, a tote bag, and $25 Amazon Gift Card. (Open to US only)

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

Ends February 20, 2019

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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

E-book #SALE: Honeymoon for One by Jennifer Peel and Once Again in the Falls by Becky Monson


Becky Monson and Jennifer Peel are excited to share with you their gorgeous new covers for Once Again in the Falls and Honeymoon for One. Not only have the covers been updated but they have re-branded their books under a new series: A Christmas at the Falls Romance.

Each book in the series is a standalone. They can be read in any order or on their own. In order to re-brand, some minor elements were changed in the stories and new additional material was added, including new last chapters and bonus Valentine's Day chapters. The love stories between the main characters remain the same and the focus of each book. Minor plot changes include a focus on only London's and Piper's friendship. We are excited about this new direction and hope you will be too. If you already read these stories, you can visit our websites to read the Valentine's Day bonus chapters.

Also, for a limited time, we are making the books available for 99 cents. They are also available in Kindle Unlimited.

Please be sure to visit Becky's and Jennifer's Facebook pages today, as they are each doing a giveaway to celebrate the relaunch of their books.




Honeymoon for One by Jennifer Peel
"The charm and romantic tension oozes off the pages . . ." - Lilac Queen, Romance Blogger ★★★★★ 

 "Honeymoon for One is beautifully written, and the plot is an engaging one that's perfect for the holiday season. Most highly recommended." - Readers Favorite ★★★★★  

Is there room for two on this honeymoon for one? 

Piper Wyatt's Christmas wish is to get promoted to manager at Blackstock Hotel and Resort. Not only does the promotion mean more money, but it means more time with her son and proof that she's not such a disappointment after all. Jace Petersen, successful owner of a national chain of sporting goods stores, finds himself alone and miserable on what should have been his honeymoon. That is until he literally falls onto the lovely Piper Wyatt. He's intrigued with this woman who can fix a car in high heels. Too bad for him, he makes a horrible first impression, and Piper's not allowed to mingle with the guests. While Piper tries her best to steer clear of Jace during his stay, she can't help but notice he's not the man from their first meeting. But is he worth risking her promotion? Jace hopes so, because he'd love nothing more than to kiss Piper atop the Falls on Christmas day to see if the legend is true. Will they both get their Christmas wishes? Find out in this charming Christmas tale about finding love in the most unexpected place, a honeymoon. 



Excerpt from Honeymoon for One
I stood up and made sure his head was clear before I slammed the hood shut. “I’m off to buy one. See you later.”

He stood puzzled. “You’re not going to call a tow truck or a repair shop?”

“No need. I can replace it myself for a lot cheaper.”

His smile said I was putting him on. “You can replace an alternator?”

“Sure.” At least I thought I could. I watched my dad do it once and there were YouTube videos. I walked around him to grab my purse from the car. I needed to hustle if I wanted to make it home before my parents dropped off Finn. I headed back to the hotel to see if any of my coworkers were leaving and could give me a ride. If I had to, I would bribe Ollie, who drove our courtesy van, to take me.

“Are you going to walk to get the alternator?”

“I wasn’t planning on it.”

“Do you have someone you can call for a ride?”

“I’ll figure it out. Enjoy your evening.” As in please leave.

He continued to walk with me but didn’t respond right away. “I can take you. I rented a car yesterday.”

I glanced over at him. “I don’t think that would be appropriate but thank you.”

“Why? Are you too young? Or am I too old?”

“Probably both, but you’re a guest and . . .”

“And what?”

“People might get the wrong impression, and I can’t afford that.”

His lips curled into a devious smile. “And what impression would that be?”

“You know very well.” I stalked off.

“Let me help you.”

He caught me off guard. I stopped again, catching the sincerity in his brown eyes. “Why do you want to?”

“Because I can, and I like you.”

“You don’t know me.”

“True, but what I’ve seen so far is likable. And if it will make you feel better, I’ll let you drive so you don’t have to worry about some old man trying to lure you away.”

He got me to smile.

“Is that a yes?”

“I . . . I . . . My job . . .”

“Don’t worry about your job; I’ll talk to April if I have to.”

I blew out the breath I’d been holding. “Hand over your keys.” I held out my hand.
His eyebrow arched, only making him appear better looking. “You’re serious?”

“Very.” 










Once Again at the Falls by Becky Monson

***2018 Readers' Favorite Gold Medal Winner!***  

"The chemistry is so swoony and the kisses will curl your toes!" -Katie's Clean Book Collection ★★★★★ 

"Becky Monson has written a fabulous story of friendships rekindled, talents rediscovered and, of course, romance." -Christine J ★★★★★ 

In one day, London Walsh finds out her ex is going to be her boss and that her parents are getting a divorce—and they want her to referee the situation. So when she’s offered the chance to spend the holidays in her old hometown of Christmas Falls, far away from all the drama, she jumps on it. But the quaint town doesn’t feel quite like the home it once was. London shed the goth image that defined her in high school long ago, but no one recognizes the woman she's become. Except for Andy Broll, London’s childhood next door neighbor. He recognizes her immediately, which sends London’s heart fluttering as she starts to see Andy in a whole different light. But when her time in Christmas Falls doesn’t go as planned, will London face it head on? Or will she find a reason to run? 





Excerpt from Once Again at the Falls

“So sorry,” I said, looking toward the ground as I realized I had knocked a bag of chocolate covered almonds out of his hand. “Where did you find these?” I asked the stranger I’d just plowed into as I bent over and picked up the bag, handing it back to the man.
 
I nearly dropped it again when I saw who the owner of the almonds was. “Andy?”
 
The lanky boy I once knew now had broad shoulders framing his tall figure. I did a double take, wondering if I was mistaken, but it was definitely him. His same hazel eyes and dark brown hair, the same pair of square-rimmed glasses he always wore perched on his nose. This was Andy Broll, for sure.
 
He looked at me, and I braced myself for the who-the-heck-are-you response I was surely about to get.
 
“London?” he asked, pulling his brows together. “London Walsh?”
 
“Yes,” I said, feeling a sudden desire to jump up and down and squeal like a sorority sister. “You recognize me?”
 
“Yeah . . . yes, of course,” he said. A full smile took over his face as his eyes moved over me, taking me all in.
 
“How are you here?” he asked.
 
“I took a plane,” I said, a teasing grin on my face.
 
“Come here,” he said, opening his arms wide to give me a hug, and I so needed a hug right then. I basically threw myself into his arms.
 
It wasn’t graceful in the slightest, but it was exactly what I needed. The hug was tight, warm, and genuine. Andy felt strong and manly. There was some definite muscle action happening there. This was nothing like the skinny kid I used to hang out with.
 
“I’m so happy you recognized me,” I said as we pulled out of the hug.
 
“Why wouldn’t I recognize you?” he asked, a confused look on his face.
 
“No one else has so far,” I said, adding a super pathetic shrug for emphasis.
 
“Well, I mean, your hair is different,” he said reaching up and gently touching a lock of my brown-highlighted hair.
 
“Yeah, I got rid of the black,” I said, feeling utterly thrilled to have someone recognize me—and Andy, of all people.
 
“And the makeup,” he made a circle around his face with his index finger.
 
“Got rid of all that too,” I said.
 
“I like,” he said, and I beamed. That was something he always said back in high school. “But you’re still you,” he said. “I still see London.”
 
He smiled brightly again, and oh, how I’d missed that smile. At that moment, I couldn’t believe I had ever lost touch with him. I couldn’t even remember how it had happened.





Romance is in the Air: A Celebration of Clean Romance


Romance is in the Air
A Celebration of Clean Romance

 


Wahoo! Romance is in the Air and we are celebrating with a $100 Giveaway! One lucky winner will receive a $100 Amazon Gift Code or $100 in Paypal Cash. 

Today's giveaway is just a prelude for what's to come. During the next few weeks, we will be giving away $500 in prizes so be sure you are following Clean Wholesome Romance so you don't miss your chance to win!


 

Just look at this AMAZING group of authors we will be showcasing!
















   


  

   

Giveaway Details $100 in Paypal Cash or a $250 Amazon.com eGift Card Ends 3/15/19 Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use money sent via PayPal or gift codes via Amazon.com. 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 will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, 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 sponsored by the participating authors. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.