Friday, May 17, 2019

Book Tour Grand Finale: The Cowboy's Perfect Match by Cathy McDavid

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Book Tour Grand Finale for
The Cowboy's Perfect Match
By Cathy McDavid

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

. . . I promise you, my blog tour will be tons of fun. I’ll be sharing not only excerpts from the book but some “facts” about my imaginary western-themed wedding venue and B&B. There’ll also be a giveaway at the end for one lucky winner. So, grab your partner, and let’s get started!

—Cathy

Becky on Books - Review

"I really enjoyed Bridget and Ryan’s story. There were almost as many LOL moments as there were swoony ones–a great balance. . . . This is the second book in the series (The Sweetheart Ranch) but it worked just fine as a standalone. . . . Sign me up for the next book, too!"



“You could join me.” His grin widened, and he raised his china plate. “If you haven’t eaten yet.”

Of all the nerve! He was flirting with her.

When she first glimpsed him, she’d thought how lucky his wife was to marry a tall, good-looking man like him. If not for the fact he was a groom, she’d have mistaken him for one of the local cowboys, what with his well-fitting Wranglers, scuffed boots, Western work shirt and Stetson, which he’d removed and hung on the antique hat rack in the corner.


"I was so happy to see that there was another book from The Sweetheart Ranch available! I loved the first book and wish that I could go visit such a place. . . . there is something magical about that Sweetheart Ranch that creates some wonderfully romantic stories that you'll enjoy reading. And this is a clean contemporary romance, so no worries there."


"This is a wonderful story with a sweet romance. . . . I highly recommend this heart warming romance." - Vicky

"The author has creatively portrayed the "ups and downs" of life in this stimulating tale of two lives coming together, only to be torn apart again through unexpected circumstances. . . . The characters were very endearing and the scenarios "played out well"." - LAWonder10


“Have a seat.” Mrs. Foxworthy motioned to the table. “We can talk here, if you don’t mind Bridget hovering nearby.”

“No, ma’am. I don’t.”

Not at all. For starters, she was easy on the eyes. Bouncy reddish-blond hair framing the face of an angel, when she wasn’t scowling. Nice figure, from what he could tell. That apron did her no favors. Dancing green eyes, his particular weakness. And a great cook.


What else do you have in the works right now?

Book three in my Sweetheart Ranch series, THE COWBOY’S CHRISTMAS BABY, will be released November 1st. Book four is coming out sometime in 2020, not sure when exactly but likely around June. Also, I have a not-yet-titled Christmas novella planned for release in early November as well. I’ll keep everyone posted on the details as soon as I have them.


“Sweet!” Ryan stopped to admire the trim, sleek, fire-engine-red vehicle parked behind the ranch house. “Top speed, how fast can this baby fly?”

Bridget was securing the insulated food container holding brunch for cabin two in the vehicle’s rear bed. She then straightened to give him an exasperated look. “You’re kidding.”

“Not at all.” Ryan continued his inspection, circling the front of the vehicle and pausing at the passenger side. “Forty-eight-volt motor, right? I bet you can do eighteen easy. Twenty on the downhill.”

“It’s a golf cart.”

Among the Reads - Review

"I really appreciated the fact that the author didn’t make Ryan a playboy just because he wasn’t ready to settle down. His sense of humor and playfulness made him a fun hero. . . . If you are looking for a light-hearted cowboy romance, this could be a good book to consider."

E-Romance News - Excerpt

Bridget found she wasn’t quite ready to leave. “You sure? I don’t mind staying.”

“Go on.” He swung down from the saddle and tied his horses to the trailer before leading the other two to the hitching post.

She marveled at how they docilely followed Ryan, one after the other. It had been like that on the trail. Not a single hiccup or moment of panic the entire time. She couldn’t imagine riding a horse while leading three others. They’d likely start bucking and kicking, and Ryan would have to cut them loose, like when he’d worked for the outfitter.

“He’s not Superman,” she mumbled under her breath.

EmpowerMoms - Review

"I really enjoyed this sweet, cowboy story with Ryan and Bridget! I loved reading about the day to day operations of the family ranch and Ryan’s house swapping. . . . Easy to read, great characters and setting, clean romance-highly recommend!"

Heidi Reads... - Guest Post

What Makes Sweetheart Ranch Special?

THE COWBOY’S PERFECT MATCH is book two in my series, The Sweetheart Ranch (two more books are for sure following and possibly more). I personally have never been to a place like it. Right now, the ranch only exists in my head and on the pages of my books :)

But, seriously, wouldn’t it be nice to visit a western-themed wedding venue and B&B? Yeah, I agree. Let me take you on an imaginary tour. . .


"But it is the journey from flirting to more to trouble to that HEA ending that makes for an enjoyable read. If you are looking for excitement and angst, you aren’t going to find a lot of it here. Instead you get a slow burn romance that is perfect for a lazy couple of days of reading."


Ryan clasped Bridget’s hands in his. Following Homer’s calling wasn’t as difficult as he first thought it would be. Square dancing must be a lot like riding a bike: a person never forgets.

They did the allemande left, taking the arms of imaginary other couples. Next, they went to the center and back again, and Ryan gave Bridget a swing before going round and round. When it came time to promenade on home, he captured her left hand in his and looped his right arm over her shoulders to take her right hand. Then, they circled the open space.

Holding her this close, Ryan couldn’t take his eyes off her profile and navigated the room blindly. She fit perfectly into the crook of his arm as if by design, and their steps matched in precise rhythm—his to the beat of his racing heart. When she leaned back her head and laughed, he lost himself in the bright melody.

Remembrancy - Review

"Cathy McDavid delivers characters with real-life issues that are authentic and believable, throws challenges in the way of reaching that elusive HEA until revelations are discovered and decisions are made to fight for true love.

A clean cowboy romance with heart, The Cowboy’s Perfect Match is a sweet read that drew me in and had me cheering for Ryan and Bridget despite the obstacles they had to overcome."

Kat's Corner Books - Interview

1. Here at Kat’s Corner books, we’re fans of cats, but love all pets. Do you have a pet?


Meet Ozzy. He’s my four-footed muse and even has his own regular column in my monthly newsletter. He’s utterly devoted to me and spends a large portion of his day napping next to my computer monitor. He tolerates my husband (whom he refers to as “the man”), pretty much ignores the dog Nacho, and keeps his distance from our newest family member, Sushi (she originally belonged to my mother and came to live with us after we moved Mom into assisted living last December). Ozzy is a rescue, also like Nacho and Sushi. He believes no one else should have access to me other than him, including “the man”, and sleeps between us at night. Moving him to another part of the bed or the floor doesn’t work, he comes right back.

Sasha says hi!


"What a good story! The attraction between Ryan and Bridget was so well written! . . . This is book two in the series, yet can easily be jumped into as a stand alone novel, if desired. I really enjoyed this story."

Bri's Book Nook - Review

"Bridget and Ryan have a slow-burn romance. There is no insta-love in this story! . . . The story is smooth without any time-skips, and I could always tell when Bridget or Ryan was speaking from his or her point of view. The ending was sweet, and I hope that these characters show up in another one of McDavid’s cowboy romances!

I would recommend this novel to anyone looking for a sweet adult romance story."


"Cute, fun, swoony, and sweet – this is a book you don’t want to miss. Book #2 in the series but easily works as a stand-alone."


"This is a book that is jam packed with the feels. It's a book that is a make you feel good story. I highly recommend this book!"


"I love how this series has tongue-in-cheek humour laced into it but also the wholesome focus on family & hard work on a ranch . . . Sweetheart Ranch has the capacity of touching your heart each time you visit & the series is rooted in family which I personally adore & Love as those make the best Romances!"


"I am giving The Cowboy’s Perfect Match by Cathy McDavid a five-star rating and recommending it to everyone who likes cowboys and Harlequin Heartwarming. The Cowboy’s Perfect Match by Cathy McDavid is a great book that had me sitting on the edge of my seat throughout the whole thing. Everything about this novel is awesome, and I can’t wait to see more of the Sweetheart Ranch series."

Splashes of Joy - Review

"I enjoyed this story so much and I love the Sweetheart Ranch. . . . This is such a sweet fun and entertaining romance to read. I enjoyed following Ryan and Bridget as they talked, flirted and as their relationship starts to build. . . . Cathy McDavid does an excellent job of creating beautiful realistic characters that develop and play their parts so well in the story. . . . This is purely romance, and if you are looking for a sweet romance read, you will certainly enjoy this one. I encourage you to check out The Cowboy’s Perfect Match as well as other books by Cathy McDavid."


“Has Ryan invited you to dinner again?”

Aha! Here was the real reason for her grandmother’s lingering.

Bridget played dumb. “Again? What makes you think he invited me to dinner a first time?”

“It’s obvious when a man has been bitten by the love bug, and been bitten hard.”

Love bug? Ryan?

“Trust me, Grandma, he hasn’t been bitten, and he didn’t invite me to dinner.” Not yesterday, anyway.

“Hmm. You said no. I figured as much.”

Hallie Reads - Review

"I so enjoyed seeing Bridget again after meeting her in A Cowboy’s Christmas Proposal. Her situation with Ryan had plenty of complications, but it is not without plenty of humor and romance. All in all, The Cowboy’s Perfect Match is a fun read, perfect for the reader who enjoys contemporary cowboy romances (with stubborn characters and undeniable chemistry)."

Kimber Li - Excerpt

“There’s no reason not to go on the hay ride,” Grandma Em told Bridget. “And don’t bring up the cookout. I happen to know for a fact you have everything ready, right down to the condiment tray.”

She watched as Ryan helped the last guest into the wagon.

“All the seats are taken,” she countered. Seats being the bales of straw.

“Sit up front with Ryan.”

No way. He knew Gregory had brought a date. He’d helped her into the wagon, for crying out loud.

“I’d rather not.” Bridget was in no mood for his teasing. Not tonight.

“Honey,” her grandmother crooned. “Don’t let that doctor fellow make you feel bad or doubt yourself. You’re a beautiful, strong, talented young woman who also happens to be an incredible catch. You’ll find the right man, and he’ll be darn lucky to have you.”

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

https://amzn.to/2QaKT6oThe Cowboy's Perfect Match
(The Sweetheart Ranch #2)
By Cathy McDavid
Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 384 Pages
May 1st 2018 by Harlequin Heartwarming

He may not be perfect…

But he’s perfect for her!

Ryan DeMere is definitely enjoying the perks of being Sweetheart Ranch’s new wrangler—the best is working with head chef Bridget O’Malley. He’s fallen head over spurs for the talented and determined beauty. There’s just one hiccup. Bridget is holding out for Mr. Right—and Ryan doesn’t quite meet her requirements. But he’s determined to win Bridget over, because Ryan may not be perfect…but maybe their love could be.


Other Books in the Series

https://amzn.to/2Hp1IYTA Cowboy's Christmas Proposal
(The Sweetheart Ranch #1)
By Cathy McDavid
Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 384 Pages
November 1st 2018 by Harlequin Heartwarming

At a magical time of year…

Can a cowboy help falling in love?

For single dad Owen Caufield, living and working at Sweetheart Ranch for a month is the perfect change of pace. While the cowboy turned wedding officiant can now spend more time with his children, Molly O’Malley, his new boss, is less thrilled. A wedding ranch isn’t the best place for three rambunctious youngsters. But amid the chaos—and the coming holidays—it may be the best place to fall in love…


About the Author

As a sophomore in high school, NY TimesUSA Today, and Amazon bestselling author Cathy McDavid won a local writing competition with her self-illustrated children’s book. Who knew that small triumph would eventually lead to a career writing contemporary romances with over 1.3 million books sold? With forty-seven titles to date, Cathy is also a member of the prestigious Romance Writers of America’s Honor Roll. This “almost” Arizona native and mother of grown twins recently married her own real-life sweetheart. After leaving the corporate world four years ago, she now spends her days penning stories about good looking men who ride the range or fight fires or hunt creatures all while sweeping the girl off her feet. It’s a tough job but she’s willing to make the sacrifice.


Tour Giveaway


One winner will receive:
  • $10 Amazon gift card
  • Author swag
  • A Cowboy’s Christmas Proposal and The Bull Rider’s Valentine (print to US winner only, Kindle copies to US or international)
Ends May 22, 2019

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Review: All for You by Heather B. Moore


https://amzn.to/2GI7N0N

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

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

Synopsis

She's sophisticated and doesn't put up with anything. He's fought for every thing he's got, and he's used to getting his way.

Crash and burn pretty much describes Lindsey Gerber’s last six months at her law firm where she hoped to make partner. Now, every goal she’s made is suddenly out the window. She moves to Pine Valley, looking for a new start. On day one she meets pro hockey player Tyler Nelson, who’s recovering from an injury and in a physical therapy program that includes nature things like hiking the ski resort, which he hates, and makes no secret of. He also makes no secret of his interest in Lindsey. Their lives are two worlds apart though, and it will take one of them changing everything to make a relationship work.


My Review

Such great chemistry!!! Holy foot rub batman... I enjoyed all the elements of this story that wove it together into an entertaining romance, as well as the mannerisms of the characters. Nelson is immediately endearing, with his long-suffering attitude towards his holistic physical therapist- the way he kept catching his swear words and replacing them in order to eliminate negativity went right to my sweet spot. He quickly takes on the role of defender and protector of Lindsey while she deals with the fallout of harassment at her former job, and it's very appealing. She is a smart and strong woman, and she recognizes the characteristics that make Nelson an all around good guy. I loved reading about their time together in Pine Valley, Nelson's return to hockey, and how they resolve the difficulties of their long distance relationship. Loved the variety of experiences they share together as their romance blossomed and relationship deepened. Every book in this series has been so fun to read, I want the author to keep 'em coming! Highly recommend!

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



Don't miss the other amazing books in the Pine Valley series
(They can easily be read in any order)


https://amzn.to/2M3MHw3https://amzn.to/2SMhpMX

https://amzn.to/2sjsTvwhttps://amzn.to/2CgbkkE

https://amzn.to/2RFwZwnhttps://amzn.to/2SShlLK

Heidi Reads... Let's Begin Again by Heather B. Moore


Tuesday, May 14, 2019

Review: The Paradox of Love by Teri Harman


https://amzn.to/2VBtie8

My rating: 3 stars / I liked it

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

Synopsis

In 1889 in Paradox Valley, Colorado, Oakley Hallowell dresses like a boy, taking on the role left empty by her six dead brothers. Better than any cowboy, her hard work and mystic gifts are the reason Hallowell Ranch thrives—but her prideful, abusive father, Gideon, will never admit it. Despite his insults and beatings, Oakley refuses to abandon her grief-broken mother and beautiful home.

The Army killed Antero’s parents and the government forcibly removed his tribe of Utes from their beloved valley. His quest for revenge sent him down a dark path and into hiding. When he witnesses Oakley quietly, miraculously save a cow from a mud-bogged death he steps out of isolation to meet her.

Antero knows Gideon Hallowell will shoot him on sight, but this fascinating woman revives his bitter soul. How can he fight a world that despises him to keep Oakley by his side?

Oakley senses goodness and loyalty in Antero, unlike the other men in her life. But she’s afraid to get close, to trust. How can she open her heart to love, forgive her father, and forge a path to happiness?


My Review

I don't quite know what to make of this story. Oakley is a complex character- abused by her father, yet tries her hardest to be the son he never had. Cherishes her mother, but resents that she doesn't stand up for herself or her daughter. Has no interest in a relationship, but is inexplicably drawn toward a drifting Indian. The circumstances she cannot escape are difficult and trying, and there doesn't seem to be any hope or love there, until Antero shows her kindness and gentleness. I enjoyed their interactions, even though there are few before they become devoted to each other. They are each a rescuer of sorts to the other- he rescues her from harm, she rescues him from loneliness. They both struggle with the trauma they have experienced, and wonder together if forgiveness is possible. I liked the way they lifted each other, bringing light and even faith to their dark worlds. Just when I thought things couldn't get any worse, they do... and the ending was both messy and wrapped up a little too nicely. Overall, I found it interesting and was compelled to keep reading to see how everything would turn out.

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


Review: Daisies and Devotion by Josi S. Kilpack




https://amzn.to/2HjZz0v

My rating: 5 stars / It was amazing

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

Synopsis

Timothy Mayfield is ready to marry for love, but, since his personal finances are thinner than he’d like, he knows he’ll also need to find a wife with wealth. After receiving an unexpected inheritance, Timothy’s circumstances change, and he is free to pursue his “perfect woman”—one with blonde hair, blue eyes, a light laugh, arched eyebrows, elegant fingers, and a dazzling smile, among nearly twenty other characteristics.

Maryann Morrington doesn’t match anything on Timothy’s list—except for wealth. An heiress in her own right, she is tired of men pursuing her only for her money. But at nearly twenty-two years old, and not a particularly stunning beauty, she can’t be as picky as her friend Timothy is.

The two friends end up playing matchmaker for each other. Timothy will find a decent gentleman for Maryann, and Maryann will prove to Timothy that his “perfect woman” doesn’t exist.

Until Miss Shaw comes to London.

Now, with Timothy’s heart captivated by the blonde, blue-eyed beauty, Maryann must decide if she should risk her heart and reveal her true feelings for her friend, or if she should settle for someone else. It’s an up-and-down game of “he loves me, he loves me not” with both hearts and friendship on the line.


My Review

I didn't quite know what to think about Maryann and Timothy at first- she seemed without personality and he appeared to be a light headed dandy. It made me curious, and I absolutely loved getting to know them as aspects of their personalities unfolded and characteristics were revealed. Their friendship is unique in that they are completely upfront with each other- blunt almost to a fault. They appreciate the honesty in each other... until feelings get hurt. Unrequited love is one of my favorite tropes because it has such a strong element of longing. Maryann is a lovely friend and does want Timothy's happiness, even at the expense of her own. He had to experience for himself the value of her devotion in contrast to the empty fantasy, and the final scenes in the book are oh-so-sweet and a wonderful give and take in their complex relationship. Highly recommend!!!

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


Guest Post & Giveaway: Hers to Protect by Catherine Lanigan

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

https://amzn.to/2LHawNFHers to Protect
(Shores of Indian Lake #11)
By Catherine Lanigan
Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 384 Pages
April 1st 2019 by Harlequin Heartwarming

She’s sworn to protect…

But does that include a speeding celebrity?

Violet Hawks is a by-the-books police officer—so when she catches a man speeding, she arrests him. Only, the man is famous race car driver Josh Stevens. To make amends, Josh launches a charm campaign, and it works on the small town…and on Violet. But when Josh is connected to an investigation, Violet begins to wonder—can she trust her instincts when her heart is involved?



Guest Post by Author Catherine Lanigan


I have always been fascinated by cars. A great deal of that interest, delight and awe, comes from the fact that I AM from Indiana. Historically, Indiana was the birthplace of many of the first automobiles being manufactured in the United States. Long before there was The Motor City of Detroit, there was Studebaker in South Bend and the Duesenberg in Indianapolis. The Austin. The Cord. These were history makers.

In my hometown, La Porte, Indiana, in early June we have “Cruise Night”.  There are so many antique car owners around here that they traditionally, parade up and down the Main Street in town for several hours. The side streets are blocked off and we all stand around and see the refurbished old cars and trucks, which have been warehoused all winter; cleaned, waxed and lovingly restored some more. It’s so fun to see cars from the 1920’s to the muscle cars of the early 70’s and the drag racing cars of the 1950’s.

And from the early days, the cars were tested on the race track. That race track is the Indianapolis 500. My editor and publisher wouldn’t let me “say” Indianapolis 500, we had to use “the race”, but I am assuming everyone will get the idea.

I first introduced this world of antique cars and their collectors in KATIA’S PROMISE. I brought Austin McCreary back in HERS TO PROTECT as Josh Stevens’ friend. Josh is an international Formula One driver. He’s famous, rich and a bit arrogant when the story begins.
Josh has everything, it appears, except happiness. Though it’s been decades, he’s still grieving over his parents’ death.  When Violet Hawks, young rookie cop with her heart set on becoming detective, pulls him over in his ultra expensive and luxurious Bugatti Chiron, for speeding, neither of them are prepared for the antagonism they create in each other. As career focused at Violet is on the drug lord her detective team is hoping to bring down, she finds that Josh’s charming smile and enthusiasm for her town, is a cover for the lonely man he really is.

Violet is blessed with a large, loving family who care about each other and their community. When Josh spends time with her, his heart learns to trust.  But love is another issue all together.




Other Books in the Series


About the Author

Catherine Lanigan is the international bestselling and award-winning author of over forty-five published titles in both fiction and non-fiction, including the novelizations of Romancing the Stone and The Jewel of the Nile. Ms. Lanigan’s novels have been translated into over twenty-four languages. Lanigan was tasked by the NotMYkid foundation to pen a collection of compelling and informative true stories of teen addicts. Ms. Lanigan’s SHORES OF INDIAN LAKE series for HARLEQUIN HEARTWARMING includes LOVE SHADOWS, HEART’S DESIRE , A FINE YEAR FOR LOVE, KATIA’S PROMISE, FEAR OF FALLING, SOPHIE’S PATH, PROTECTING THE SINGLE MOM, FAMILY OF HIS OWN, HIS BABY DILEMMA, RESCUED BY THE FIREFIGHTER and HER TO PROTECT (2019).

Ms. Lanigan is a frequent speaker at literary functions and book conventions as well as inspiring audiences with her real stories of angelic intervention from her Angel Tales series of books. She is an outspoken advocate for domestic violence and abuse and was honored by The National Domestic Violence Hotline in Washington, D.C. She has been a guest on numerous radio programs including “Coast to Coast” and on television interview and talk show programs as well as blogs, podcasts and online radio interview programs. She writes a monthly blog for Heartwarmingauthors.blogspot.com.

Tour Giveaway


1 winner will receive a $50 Amazon eGift Card (open internationally)
Ends May 29, 2019

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Monday, May 13, 2019

Review & Giveaway: A Welcome At Our Door by Amy Clipston

 

Welcome to the Blog Tour & Giveaway for A Welcome At Our Door by Amy Clipston with JustRead Publicity Tours!
ABOUT THE BOOK
 
https://amzn.to/2YnJZ9OTitle: A Welcome At Our Door  
Series: Amish Homestead, Book 4  
Author: Amy Clipston  
Publisher: Zondervan  
Release Date: May 7, 2018
Genre: Amish Fiction

After a devastating loss, Cindy Riehl is still searching for peace. Will she find it in the community she calls home—or will love send her down a new path?

Over the last few years, Cindy Riehl—the youngest of the Riehl children—has watched her siblings find love and happiness in Lancaster County. But as her family has settled down and grown, Cindy has continued to grieve her mother, whose death left an enormous hole in her heart. Since that haunting day, Cindy has struggled to find peace and wonders if the community is the place for her—and if her faith in God will ever feel the same as it once did.

When a handsome and kind Englisher named Drew crosses Cindy’s path one surprising day, the two of them become fast and easy friends. Drew dreams of starting a family after some losses of his own, and before long, he and Cindy discover that their feelings for each other are romantic. As they spend more time together—often in secret—Cindy is drawn further and further away from the Amish community and the family she loves. In time, she is faced with a difficult choice that threatens to upend her world.

Will Cindy find contentment and love, and will she ever find restored comfort in God and her beloved community? In this final installment of the Amish Homestead series, we return to the charming town of Bird-in-Hand for a story of healing, family, and God’s perfect provision.


MY REVIEW

3 stars / I liked it

This is a sweet story of friendship, healing, and discovering one's path. Cindy has contrasting emotions about her life- she acts as though she is content, but is stuck in her grief and feels like no one can understand. Even though she is sweet and helpful, she also comes across as a bit immature and self-centered. Her quick friendship with Drew fills the void in her life, and they are very sweet together. The narrative is repetitious and the entire plot focuses on the dilemma of their relationship- they are forbidden to be friends because it would prevent Cindy from staying Amish... even though she still had not committed to baptism. The family members are two-dimensional and I wished there had been more depth explored, their feelings shown rather than told. The last part of the book was more interesting and I was curious to see how the author would choose to wrap everything up. I felt like it was overly simple and even though I enjoyed the happy ending, there were issues that I thought were not addressed.

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



ABOUT THE AUTHOR
 

Amy Clipston is the award-winning and bestselling author of the Kauffman Amish Bakery, Hearts of Lancaster Grand Hotel, Amish Heirloom, and Amish Homestead series. Her novels have hit multiple bestseller lists including CBD, CBA, and ECPA. Amy holds a degree in communication from Virginia Wesleyan University and works full-time for the City of Charlotte, NC. Amy lives in North Carolina with her husband, two sons, and four spoiled rotten cats.  

CONNECT WITH AMY: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
 



TOUR GIVEAWAY
(1) winner will receive a print copy of A Welcome At Our Door.  

Enter via the Rafflecopter giveaway below. Giveaway will begin at midnight May 13, 2019 and last through 11:59 pm May 20, 2019. US only. Winners will be notified within 2 weeks 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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Saturday, May 11, 2019

Review: The Waves by Amy Matayo


https://amzn.to/2GGAr2o

My rating: 4 stars / I really liked it

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

Synopsis

Dillon Hayes is twenty-eight and single, an unfortunate status her overbearing family is determined to fix. So when she’s stuck on a cruise ship for a seven-day reunion with the lot of them, she's desperate for any escape she can find, even if it means partnering with a sketchy stranger for an off-the-beaten-path snorkeling excursion. After her mother's last matchmaking attempt, Dillon is more than willing to trade all her good sense for a few hours of solace.

Liam Gamble is stuck in the middle of family vacation hell. The worst part: it's not even his family. This will be the last time he ever accepts a free-vacation invitation from his best friend. At this point, he'd be willing to hand over his life savings to get off this crazy ship. So when he catches one of his friend's cousins sneaking off board, he decides to join her, hijacking her private excursion and nearly blowing her cover. If she gets to leave, so does he.

But what starts off as a secret escape turns into a very real nightmare when their shady tour guide leaves them stranded on an uninhabited island with nothing but the clothes on their backs and no idea how to keep themselves alive.

As hours turn into days, and the weather proves as threatening as their need for food and water, Dillon and Liam must join forces and rely on each other if they have any hope of seeing their families again. Funny thing: sometimes in life, the end of the rope is when you discover everything you value has been in front of you all along.


My Review

Entertaining nightmare! I can't imagine being stranded on an island- it seems like it would be an adventure, but the author did a great job of portraying the realities of such a dangerous situation. The complex dynamics of Dillon and Liam's tenuous relationship are explored as they fight for survival... and often with each other. The narrative of their thoughts was a bit edgy at times, but realistic for the lifestyle and values of the characters. They have a great give and take as they learn to communicate and deal with the frustrations they experience. I enjoyed reading about the transformation they undergo through their shared experience and the aftermath of their connection. I don't want to give anything away, but it was an entertaining read and unlike anything I've read lately! I think fans of contemporary romance will love it.

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