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

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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

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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

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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

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Sunday, August 11, 2019

Book Tour Grand Finale: Single Dad to the Rescue by Cari Lynn Webb

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Book Tour Grand Finale for
Single Dad to the Rescue
By Cari Lynn Webb

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

Welcome to my blog tour with Prism!

I’m thrilled to be celebrating the release of my new book, Single Dad to the Rescue, in my City by the Bay Stories with Harlequin Heartwarming. Single Dad to the Rescue is a sweet contemporary romance that brings together animal rescuer, Brooke Ellis, and paramedic, Dan Sawyer. . .



"A Single Dad to the Rescue is – true to its imprint – heartwarming and sweet. It’s the kind of story that leaves you sighing contentedly after you turn the last page, the kind that shows you that good-hearted people who put others first do still exist, the kind that reminds you that second chances sometimes show up when – and with whom – we least expect. The characters are equal parts layered, real, and compelling, and you’ll enjoy revisiting friends from previous books in the series if you’ve read those. If not, it works just as well as a standalone. A great read for animal lovers, rescuers-at-heart, and fans of sweet romance."

Remembrancy - Review

"Webb gives readers a story of healing, of finding the courage to live life to the fullest after living through the worst kind of pain, and of the blessings (and yes, sometimes challenges) of living in a community that cares."


“I saw the lights on.” He lifted several cloth shopping bags and his smile, then added, “Grocery delivery.”

Brooke wanted to close the door. His appealing half grin could disarm her if she was someone else. Someone who believed in fairy tales, storybook romance and that once-in-a-lifetime love could happen again. But she couldn’t shut the door. This was Dan, Rick’s son. And her stomach growled. “How much do I owe you?”

“I’m not interested in money.” He handed the bags to her.

EmpowerMoms - Review

"I enjoyed this sweet romance story! I liked the main characters Brooke Ellis, Dan Sawyer, his son and the grandfather. . . . Easy to read, great characters-loved it!"

Hallie Reads - Review

"Though not without its complications, Single Dad to the Rescue is a sweet addition to Webb’s series. Any reader in need of a heartwarming contemporary romance could be delighted with this book—I know I was."


"An emotional journey of life, love and growth! Cari Lynn Webb pulls at our heartstrings time and again with the latest in her City by the Bay Stories series. . . . The story is sweet with a punch of sadness and held my attention throughout. Really enjoyed the richness of the characters and the connection they shared. Highly recommend!"

Splashes of Joy - Review

"Author Cari Lynn Webb does a really good job of weaving all of the past hurts and heartaches in both Brooke and Dan’s lives taking them on a journey that will finally give them the love and life they deserve. I enjoyed the animals, and it made me realize juzy how much fires and other disasters traumatizes the lives of our fur babies. The author does a good job with discussing the pets and their feelings. As well as Dan’s son Ben and his medical issues. The entire book was very well written, and I will look for more books from this author."


"Single Dad to the Rescue is a sweet clean romance read! . . . I felt heartwarming feelings build up throughout this read. Single Dad to the Rescue by Cari Lynn Webb is a romance with life building experiences which we can all relate to in different ways."


"The thing that I loved about this book the most is the feeling of hope through out the book. . . . I love the sense of community and coming together. Dan's precious son is too adorable and I just loved the scenes with him and his friends. This book packed the feels and it's one you can easily get lost in. I'm looking forward to more from this series."


"The attention to detail and the care in which Webb describes the artfulness of healing through compassionate volunteering with rescue animals is part of what endeared me to this story. . . . This is a multi-layered story about the intersection of lives and the curious ways in which the heart leads us forward into a tomorrow that has more hope of promise than the past we're trying to outrun. I loved the way Ms Webb composed this story, how she tucks us so dearly close to her characters and their internal battles; whilst providing us with a firm understanding about life, love, loss and the second chances we must choose to embrace if we hope to aspire towards a future filled with the hopefulness of a renewed sense of purpose."


Evie’s love for the children was more than obvious. Dan’s love for his son would be just as strong. Just as protective. Ben was no doubt the reason for Dan’s white lie. Was Dan’s love only reserved for his son? Love. Where had that come from? She’d fallen in love before. The head-over-heels kind. The once-in-a-lifetime kind. She’d be too greedy to consider a second chance. Brooke reached for that invisible pause button to stop her tumbling thoughts.

A strong hand landed on Brooke’s lower back and settled as if to catch her when she fell. Brooke glanced over her shoulder. Dan stood just behind her, his smile gentle.


"First of all, this is squeaky clean romance with nothing offensive in it. [Moreover], this is a book that can be enjoyed in an evening, by the beach, on vacation…in short, it is a nice, quick read that will provide just the kind of clean romance fans of this genre crave."


"The book is a beautiful story. I especially loved all the dogs and cats in the book — also the little boy. . . . This book was my first one by the author. I enjoyed her writing very much. I definitely will read more of her books. I loved all the characters in the book so much."


"I absolutely love Cari Lynn Webb’s writing style. She is highly talented and definitely an author that is quickly becoming one of my favorites. . . . If you love clean romances, sweet boys and lovable furbabies, then this is a story for you. Webb will quickly work her way into your soul with her work and leave you a fan for life. Great job and hats off to you, Webb! Can’t wait for more."


"The novel was a cozy romantic read with likable characters and not so likable characters. I found Ben to be cute and loveable along with all of Dan's friends. The author weaves the perfect amount of drama to keep readers drawn to the story and not become overwhelmed. Overall, it was the perfect romantic beach read."

Harlie's Book - Excerpt & Review

Ben’s absolute certainty softened Dan. That was all he’d ever wanted to give Ben: a safe home. One without chaos. One with stability and love.

Brooke shifted to look at Dan.

Again, her dark brown gaze pulled him in. Her wide soulful eyes called to him. Made him want to learn everything about her. Made him want…

"Yall, I have to admit that this is the best book in the series. Yes, I’ve read the others but this one has all the feels. . . . I just really connected with everyone in the book. I can’t wait to see what Ms. Webb does next."


"I have read a lot of books in the Harlequin Heartwarming line and while they have all been good, I have to say that this book is one of my favorites. . . . Overall, this truly was a heartwarming read with a wonderful storyline that flowed at a perfect pace. The characters are compelling and for those reasons, I highly recommend, Single Dad to the Rescue."

Pause for Tales - Review

"Ben was cute and a smart kid. The animals added a nice extension for the humans to show their love. I could see just how big Brooke’s heart was. I enjoyed this second chance at love despite life’s circumstances story."


"I really loved this book, it's a really sweet romance and I absolutely loved Brooke's character, what a dynamite lady and the perfect one for Dan! I highly recommend this if you're looking for a nice, clean, sweet romance! . . . I will definitely be reading more from this author!"

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

https://amzn.to/2KsPf7JSingle Dad to the Rescue
(City by the Bay Stories #4)
By Cari Lynn Webb
Contemporary Romance
Paperback & ebook, 368 Pages
August 1st 2019 by Harlequin Heartwarming

He offered her help

And he found love

Her home destroyed by a wildfire, Brooke Ellis finds temporary shelter at the home of paramedic Dan Sawyer and his young son, Ben. With the addition of Brooke and her lively fur family, Dan finds his carefully planned routine delightfully turned upside down. And his carefully guarded heart daring to trust in love again. When his ex-wife suddenly reappears, will it be Brooke to the rescue?


Other Books in the Series


About the Author


Cari Lynn Webb lives in South Carolina with her husband, daughters and assorted four-legged family members. She's been blessed to see the power of true love in her grandparent's 70 year marriage and her parent's marriage of over 50 years. She knows love isn't always sweet and perfect, it can be challenging, complicated and risky. But she believes happily-ever-afters are worth fighting for. She loves to connect with readers. Visit her at her website.


Tour Giveaway


1 winner will receive a $50 Amazon eGift Card & The Return of the Blackwell Brothers five-book series (print books to US winner, ebooks to international winner)

Open internationally
Ends August 14, 2019

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