Book Review – The Texas Cowboy

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Katheryn Lane, The Texas Cowboy

Everything’s bigger in Texas, including the problems.

When Vicky flies into Texas, she immediately falls for the charms of local cowboy, Jack Cassidy. However, her wealthy Dallas cousin, Laura, has other ideas and will do everything she can to steer Vicky away from Jack and into the arms of a rich oilman.

Jack is resigned to living the life of a lonely cowboy whose only female company is his horses—that is, until he meets Vicky. However, Vicky isn’t the only person with a claim on his heart. Jack wasn’t always alone and his ex is about to make a dramatic comeback.

Every cowboy has a past and this cowboy’s past is about to destroy his future.

I have to say that while The Texas Cowboy was an enjoyable and quick read, there were a few problems with it. While I really liked Jack and Vicky, Laura wasn’t the easiest person to like. She’s shallow and vain and materialistic. I wasn’t sure if we were supposed to actually feel for her or if she was just meant to be a shiny foil to Vicky’s more down to earth realism. She plays a pretty major part in the book, though, so she’s not easy to ignore but I did like her husband and Jack’s sister. They made excellent compliments to an interesting main couple.

One of the other things I had a little issue with was some of the flow. For the most part it was a small problem and easily overlooked with the quickly moving plot … but then we got to the end. Jack has a pretty big secret and one that kinda threw me for a loop. It’s very understandable for Vicky to be as upset as she is and the resolution seemed a little abrupt and incomplete. I did see a comment somewhere from the author that she is curious if readers would like to see more about Jack and Vicky, so maybe if there is a follow-up story then I’d get the closure I feel like I need.

Overall, I say give The Texas Cowboy a shot. Jack and Vicky are enjoyable and the plot is fun. Once I decided that it was fine that I didn’t care for Laura she became easier to take and there are other characters that are much more entertaining.

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Spotlight – Morgan Black

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Ablaze, Flames, Morgan Black

First up this morning I’ve got a special treat as we take a look at a couple of books by author Morgan Black.

*****

Ablaze

What if love was like gasoline? Light a match and become engulfed in it’s flame.

Cheyenne is attempting to run into the arm’s of her betrothed Collin, when fate intervenes and she becomes trapped at her family’s cabin with another man. Luke, a ranch hand at her father’s farm, makes her heart race. When the lights go out, she finds herself falling into his arms, and into his bed.

This is a serialized set of erotic romance titles. Ablaze is the first installment and it is novella length.

*This book is not suitable for readers under the age of 18.*

Add to Goodreads: http://bit.ly/1ncfs7W

Amazon: http://amzn.to/1tuVfwe

Barnes & Noble: http://bit.ly/1nk9CnM

*

Flames

In the mountains of Colorado Cheyenne believes secrets can stay hidden. But now that she has a secret of her own, she’s realizing it’s harder than she thought. Concealing it from her father is one thing, but what about Collin, the man she’s promised to? Cheyenne now to has to fight for her independence, while fighting to stay with the man she truly loves.

Luke wants nothing more than to tell Cheyenne’s father in his own way, but Cheyenne is hot headed and stubborn, two qualities he admires about her. Until they get him into trouble.

The blizzard is over, but the storm is still coming.

Add to Goodreads: http://bit.ly/1k2I5yY

Amazon: http://amzn.to/1tuVWWl

Barnes & Noble: http://bit.ly/1m3pbLl

*****

Author Info:

Morgan Black is a hair stylist by day and hottie writer by night. She walks her dogs in high heels and never leaves the house without red lipstick. She firmly believes in the power of Zen, and does Yoga freely in her backyard, in her favorite set of pumps.
Morgan Black also writes hot vampire erom under M. Black.

Website: http://authormorganblack.wordpress.com/

Facebook: http://on.fb.me/1jelIGL

Book Review – If I Stay

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If I Stay, Montgomery Manor series, Tamara Morgan

Now it’s time for my review of If I Stay.  You can check out the original guest post from author Tamara Morgan here, which also has an excerpt and buy links.

*****

Ryan Lucas would rather be anywhere but Ransom Creek, Connecticut. After losing his high-adrenaline career as a Hollywood stunt driver, he’s had to tuck his tail between his legs and take up employment as a chauffeur for the Montgomerys, a wealthy hotelier family.

Amy Sanders has returned home to Ransom Creek to take over her mother’s former position as nanny to the Montgomerys—bringing her close to dashing Jake Montgomery once again. She grew up with a major crush on Jake, and it’s not easy to leave those feelings behind, even though her friendship with the hard-edged family chauffeur, Ryan, has a sizzling undercurrent of undeniable attraction.

Amy’s determined to prove to Ryan that life at Montgomery Manor isn’t all bad, but each time they draw closer Jake swoops in. Amy is torn between two men—and two worlds. And Ryan is rapidly coming to learn that if he wants to make Amy his, he’ll have to prove to her that life downstairs can be everything they both want.

This one is a bit like a soap opera – it’s a little insulated world, full of quirky characters and each has his own closely guarded secrets.

I really liked both Amy and Ryan. She’s got such a wonderfully upbeat personality, although that also makes her want to avoid any form of confrontation. She’s the perfect person to be the nanny for toddlers, bubbly and happy and constantly looking at the bright side. Ryan’s world has imploded and he’s biding his time with the Montgomerys until he can find a way back to his old life. He’s drawn to the sunshine that is Amy, the perfect foil to his moodiness and solitude. Together they are funny, charming, and tender – each giving the other a different outlook on the world and I really like how they compliment each other.  He watches out for her, while she brings him out of his shell and makes sure that he has fun.

We also get to know one of the Montgomery kids when Jake comes back home.  He’s got so much going on underneath his carefree exterior that I know that his story is going to be fantastic.  And since the house is like a world unto itself, we’re given glimpses into the other players as well.  But unfortunately that’s about it – we’re left with a lot of questions just like any good daytime soap, which also means we’ll be seeing their stories as well.  And I’ll be right there in line for all of them.

Full of humor and heart, with fun characters and an entertaining storyline, If I Stay is totally addictive.

Spotlight – Shunned No More

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Christina McKnight, Lady Forsaken series, Shunned No More

Today we’re going to start out by looking at Shunned No More by Christina McKnight, including a special sneak peek of the opening pages!

*****

Shunned No More

A Lady Forsaken Book 1

by Christina McKnight

Genre: Historical Romance, Regency

Publisher: La Loma Elite Publishing

Date of Publication: May 30, 2014

ISBN: 9780988261723

Number of pages: 300 Approximate

Word Count: 75,000 Approximate

Cover Artist: LFD Designs for Authors

Blurb:

A Lady Shunned by All…

Lady Viola Oberbrook only wanted to forget the ill-fated early morning duel that took the lives of two young, wealthy, promising men of the ton and sent her fleeing for her father’s country estate. Eight years later, she has her life in order: a fulfilling business, a few trusted friends, and no plans to return to London society. What she doesn’t expect is to come face to face with her past.

A Lord Betrayed by One…

Brock Spencer, Earl of Haversham, only wants vengeance. Recently returned from his military service to the King, his plans include repairing his family estate, finding a bride, and destroying the girl responsible for the untimely death of his twin brothers. What he doesn’t anticipate is falling in love with the only woman who should never be part of his future.

An Impossible Match, Destined to Be…

Add Shunned No More to your Goodreads Shelf

*****

Author Info:

Christina McKnight is a book lover turned writer. From a young age, her mother encouraged her to tell her own stories. She’s been writing ever since. Currently, she focuses on Historical Romance, Urban Fantasy, and Paranormal Romance.

Christina enjoys a quiet life in Northern California with her family, her wine, and lots of coffee. Oh, and her books…don’t forget her books! Most days she can be found writing, reading, or traveling the great state of California.

Twitter! https://twitter.com/#!/CMcKnightWriter

Blog: www.christinamcknight.com

FB: https://www.facebook.com/ChristinaMcKnightWriter

*****

Excerpt:

PROLOGUE

 

Hyde Park

April 1806

 

8 years ago…

 

Viola clutched the handle of her pink parasol to her chest tightly in anticipation of the spectacle to come. Her gaze fixed on the two figures shrouded in the early morning fog of Hyde Park. The men, really only boys, began to count as they paced away from each other. Shiny, pearl-handled pistols positioned in their right hands were at the ready.

She clamped her lips tight to suppress the giggle that threatened to escape.

Who would have thought that she, Lady Viola Oberbrook, would have two men seeking her hand in marriage…and in the first week of her very first season, no less? That they were the twin sons of Lord Haversham was an even greater coup de grǎce for her. She’d be the envy of every debutante. The talk of the town. As well she should be! Her father was the Duke of Liperton, after all.

If only she’d found a way to get all of London here to witness the duel. She’d done what she could by leaving word with Mrs. Tenchard. The old gossipmonger was sure to spread the word more quickly than Vi could spend her monthly allowance at the milliner’s shop.

And Vi prided herself on her ability to spend her father’s money.

“Miss Viola, beg’n yer pardon, but it be wise to don ye wool kid gloves,” her lady’s maid, Sarah, whispered beside her.

“Shhhh,” Vi hissed in return, raising her hand for Sarah to hold her tongue. She didn’t want to miss a single moment of what was to come. She would remember this for the rest of her existence. The day two men of the haute ton battled in her honor. She sighed.

The twins—Cody, with his hair cut longer than the current fashion permitted, and sporting a determined glint in his eye, and Winston, with his smartly trimmed blond hair falling respectfully above his collar—reached the required twenty-pace distance and turned.

Their pistols fired in unison. Vi’s heart soared. Her first duel…and certainly not her last, if she had anything to say in the matter.

The swift morning breeze pushed the smoke from the scene as both men dropped to the ground, soggy with morning dew. Shouts of urgency rang out in the air. Men rushed in to assist the twins.

A cold chill inched up her spine; her breath caught in her lungs.

Neither man moved.

A sharp inhale of breath sounded next to her, but Vi was hesitant to remove her attention from the scene as the pungent smell of a spent firearm reached her.

“Call Doc Durpentire. Post haste!” bellowed Mr. Rodney Swiftenberg. As a distant relative of the Havershams’, Swiftenberg stood as Cody’s second during the duel. Others, vaguely familiar, knelt over both fallen men.

The gossip rags would have much to write about this day. Vi could hardly wait to see her name in print. Maybe her father would increase her dowry, seeing as she would be in high demand by the day’s end.

“Miss,” Sarah called. “I think it best we be head’n home. Ye Pa is going to be right mad when he finds you snuck out and now these poor men be lying dead at ye very feet.”

“Surely you jest. They are simply play acting for dramatics…in my honor, I do suppose.” Viola eyed the two groups of men where they stood, their heads shaking in turn. One took his coat off and laid it gently over Cody’s still body. Vi’s glare snapped to Winston, where another man shook out a horse blanket. The thick, coarse material drifted on the morning breeze and settled on the second body.

She studied the scene in front of her. It had the potential to be ever so romantic. A story she would regale her grandchildren with. It was a shame neither twin was the first born and, therefore, unworthy of her hand. But she’d seen no reason to inform them of this minor issue and spoil her fun. They’d find out soon enough.

Slowly, the eyes of every person present settled on her. She took a step back at the harshness of their stares. Her chilled hand rose to cover her mouth. She wanted to tell them to avert their eyes; she was the daughter of a Duke. They need show the respect due her. None of these men held a title higher than Baron. How dare they look at her thus?

A tall, slender man carrying a large cloth bag rushed to Winston. She assumed this was Doc Durpentire. He would have both men patched up in no time. But with both Cody and Winston taking a bullet, their feud would not be resolved. Viola imagined what the pair would think up next to prove one deserved her hand over the other. Perhaps a curricle race through Mayfair District. She knew she would be able to convince Cody to let her ride along on the adventure. She could practically feel the wind against her face as the carriage took the corners at a high speed, shifting across the seat so that her soft body might come to rest against Cody’s hard one.

Imagine what the silly, empty-brained young females would think. They’d envy her further. An unbidden smile played across her lips.

The doctor drew the heavy blanket aside and his hands moved over Winston’s body. Then, they stilled. His head dropped forward. He spoke to the men around him, but Vi was too far to hear their conversation.

Rodney, hands shoved deep in his pockets, moved in her direction.

“Whatever is the matter with them?” she asked when he was close enough to hear.

“I think you should go, Lady Viola. This is not a scene any innocent maiden should witness,” Rodney replied. His blond hair was so much like Cody and Winston’s, but his attitude had always struck her as arrogant for a man with no title or wealth to speak of.

“Who are you to order me about?” Viola closed her parasol with a swift click and handed it to Sarah, her hands coming to rest on her rounded hips.

“It is not the time for this. My cousins…they are both dead.” Rodney paused. “I must alert my uncle to his misfortune.”

“You are mistaken.”

“I assure you, no mistakes have been made this day.” He abruptly turned, stalking back to the crowd gathering between the fallen men.

He must be jesting, Viola thought. She looked between the fallen pair again, their motionless bodies so at odds with the twins she’d come to know in recent days. The heat of exhilaration drained from her as a hand settled at her elbow. Viola felt the calloused fingertips through her thin morning cloak.

“We should be going, Miss.”

Vi shook Sarah’s imploring touch from her arm and tried to focus her gaze on something—anything—other than the lifeless men on the ground.

“Well,” Viola stated. “This was…” Dread clawed at her insides, and her spirit shattered as she stared at the two men lying prone and unmoving before her. “…unexpected.” Her entire life had been leading up to this moment—a life of societal demands and the rigors one had to follow to be accepted. A life that had just stopped, as quickly as those of the two men who now lay dead. Dead. She had murdered these men—the realization came at her all at once, even as her mind rebelled. Cody and Winston, the silly twins who had entertained her so, were no more. Yet, she continued to breathe. With each breath, standing in the chill of early morning in Hyde Park, she felt the obligations of her station, its standards and protocols too powerful for a seventeen-year-old girl to overcome.

She glanced around her for help, for someone to tell her what to do, but all focus was on the boys on the ground. Years of being taught how to behave hadn’t prepared her for anything like this.

“Miss, what should we do?”

“I suppose we should…” She cleared her throat. “I suppose it is time to start over.” She sensed, somehow, that starting over might be impossible.

“Start over, Miss?” Her maid’s dark brow pulled low over her eyes.

Viola straightened her already impeccably postured back and forced her prized smile before continuing. “To find another suitor, you silly girl! This time, I intend to set my sights a bit higher.” She spun on her heels, determined not to stumble, to not falter before so many. She started back towards her carriage, moving through the men without meeting anyone’s eye,  feeling the weight of their stares as she passed. It didn’t matter. She had the evening’s entertainments to prepare for and an image to uphold—no matter the cost to her soul.

*****

Giveaway:

3 ebook copies of Shunned No More

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/ba112f658/

*****

Spotlight – Bella Ross

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Andreas, Bella Ross, Dubai series, Tempted in Tahiti, The Billionaire Doms of Club Pluto series, Wanderlust series

Now we’re going to take a closer look at author Bella Ross.

*****

Author Info:

Bella Ross is a writer with many passions, two of which are writing and travelling. She wrote her first book (a novel) at eighteen a la Jackie Collins. But back then, unbeknownst to her, life was about to take her on a detour. As she set off on her new course, her dream of writing took a backseat and her entrepreneurial spirit flourished instead. But after many years of worldly pursuits, the urge to write returned and the time was right to follow her bliss.

She believes its never too late to follow your dreams/bliss.

Her books/stories are her first attempt at erotic romance. She loves the genre and its endless creative possibilities. She likes pairing bold and dynamic (Alpha) men with sexy and strong women – which in her opinion – make for a hot and sizzling combination. With her love of travel, it is no surprise that her ‘Wanderlust Series’ take place in glamorous capitals or exotic locales around the world. Its the perfect backdrop/setting for her characters to explore and indulge their lusts and passions, loves and desires.

When she’s not writing, she’s reading, or gallivanting all over seeking new inspiration, or people watching while enjoying a latte at Starbucks and jotting down ideas.

She loves to hear from readers, and looks forward to interacting through her social media channels. You can also sign up for her mailing list to be notified about new releases and promotional offers.

Follow Bella:

Blog | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads

*****

Andreas

Dubai: VOL I (The Billionaire Doms of Club Pluto)

Releasing May, 2014

Blurb:

One determined Journalist….

Freelance journalist, Genevieve Parker, has just been handed the biggest story of her career. But there’s one problem…Going undercover as a submissive in one of the most exclusive BDSM clubs in the world was more than she bargained for. But that’s nothing compared to the man she meets there. Andreas Contos. Her assignment. Gorgeous. Powerful. Mysterious. Genevieve is fascinated…intrigued. But does her intense attraction and willingness to go places with him she’s never gone before sexually really have to do with writing her exposé? Feeling confused and overwhelmed, every instinct tells her to run before her professional facade comes crashing down…before she has to choose between obligation and desire….

One elusive billionaire…

Greek billionaire, Andreas Contos, is more than he seems. Between the powerful company he keeps and the secrets that lurk behind closed doors, trusting anyone is out of the question – especially the lush and sensual woman he just met. But there is something different about Genevieve – a guarded nature he’s anxious to penetrate. Unable to resist her, Andreas proceeds in taking her under his wing for the night to show her his world – a world of exquisite pleasure. As the two of them get deeper in exploring the eroticism of mind and body, danger watches them from the shadows…

Buying links: Amazon / Amazon UK /ARe /Kobo

*****

Tempted in Tahiti

Releasing April 2014

Blurb:

Sometimes yielding to temptation is the only option…

Halle Blake has landed her dream job as creative director for M & G, one of the largest luxury goods conglomerates in the world. But before officially stepping into her new role, she decides to celebrate by taking off to Tahiti for some fun in the sun. While there she meets a tempting and gorgeous photographer who sweeps her off her feet. But upon her return, all tanned, revived and feeling fabulous, Halle comes face to face with the biggest shock of her life…

Buying links: Amazon / Amazon UK /ARe /Kobo

*****

Spotlight – Unseen

Tags

Lauren Stewart, The Heights series, Unseen

We’re going to start the morning with a look at the first book in Lauren Stewart’s “The Heights” series, Unseen.  Including a sexy sneak peek!

*****

Unseen

The Heights Volume 1

by Lauren Stewart

Genre: Urban Fantasy/Paranormal Romance

Publisher: Off the Hook Publishing

Date of Publication: May 29, 2014

ISBN: 978-0-9881701-9-3

Number of pages: ~386

Word Count: ~100,000

Cover Artist: Amanda of Pixel Mischief Design

Blurb:

An invisible wall built from the tears of those touched by death

An impossible love as divided as the world around them.

After Addison finds a nearly-dusted vampire in the garbage outside her building, her ability to stay off the supernatural world’s radar is deader than the vamp. Almost as dead as she’ll be if anyone thinks she put him there. Should she finish the job somebody else screwed up or move him somewhere humans won’t find him? To keep the Heights hidden, she may have shoved a stake into her own chest. Just when she thinks her life couldn’t possibly get any more dangerous, she finds out who he is.

As vampire king and Prime to all supernatural beings in the North American zone, Rhyse is accustomed to getting what he wants without asking. But he neither wanted nor asked to be wounded in an ambush, waking up chained to a bed with a hole in his chest. Unfortunately, he needs help to discover who tried to kill him. But worse than that, his only ally is his captor, someone unaware she has the power to destroy their entire world.

As a prophesized war brews in the Heights, Addison and Rhyse must decide which carries more risk—trusting someone who could destroy you or trusting someone who could love you?

Amazon: http://amzn.com/B00KKXUHX2

B&N: http://bit.ly/1kbOmIP

Smashwords: http://bit.ly/1rdl1rd

Add it to your Goodreads Shelf

*****

Excerpt:

Addison backed up until she hit the counter. It was over. It had been over ever since those chains came off. Ever since she brought him into her apartment. Into her life.

“I saved you. I could’ve left you outside until the sun came up.”

“I imagine you wish you had.”

“Can you…can you not kill me? Just take some, but not all?”

Rhyse brushed her hair behind her shoulder and curled his fingers around the nape of her neck, whispering, “Do you trust me that much?”

“I don’t even trust you a little.” She felt the sting of tears. “I don’t want to be turned. If you drain me, let me die.”

He ran his other hand up her shoulder, to her throat and slowly closed his fingers around it. One move and her neck would break. “To drain you I would have to drink from you. And that, my pet, I will not do.”

She didn’t know what he meant but now seemed like a bad time to argue.

“Did you know what you are? How many of you exist?”

She didn’t answer. Partially because speaking required the air he was cutting off. Then his hands were gone, just like the rest of him.

Was it over?

When one of the women behind the counter moaned, Addison went to make sure they were alright.

Rhyse was on top of one of them, his fangs obviously burrowed in her neck. The woman moaned again, her legs wrapping around him. One hand clutched his shoulder and the other slapped the wall, searching for a hold.

It had to have been shock that made it impossible to look away. Or run away. The woman’s moans got louder, then crested, and her body went limp. Not in a dead way, but in an I-just-had-the-best-orgasm-of-my-life way.

Get out of here.

“Leave and they will die.” His voice stopped her after only two steps. “Stay and they will wake up from a very pleasant, very erotic dream.”

She grinded her teeth when she heard another moan. He must have moved on to the other woman. With two to feed from, there was less of a chance he would drain them, but… “Why should I trust you?”

The woman’s moans stopped and she whined, “No.”

“I do not care if you trust me,” he said. “Only that you obey me.”

“Fuck you.” But she didn’t move. “Are they alive?”

“Of course. It is against the law to kill humans.”

“Then let me go.”

“You are not human, Addison.” His voice came from just over her shoulder.

“I am. I promise. Totally human.” Somehow he’d missed the fact that seers were human, despite her telling him at least five times.

She heard the shuffling of fabric and looked down to see him wrapping his already-bloody shirt around the arm she’d cut. He tied a knot with the sleeves and pulled it tight. There was no part of this that she understood.

She sucked in a breath when he put his hands on her hipbones. Then another as they slid to her belly and down, pressing her back into him. She felt his heat and a vibration on her back as he made a sound similar to a cat’s purr but scarier. Clenching her eyes shut, she waited for death.

“You should thank them.” His voice was all sex. Dangerous, risky, awesome sex. “They just saved your life.”

They did? “Thank you,” she called out with a shaking voice. “Now that your belly’s full, how about you back off a little?”

“I should kill you, Addison.”

“I’m going to have to disagree with you about that.”

After a moment he stepped away, sighing as if he just made a really tough decision and wasn’t sure it was the right one.

“So,” she said, heading for the door, “it seems like you’re feeling better which is great. I’m really happy for you. Since you don’t need me anymore, I’m gonna go now. I’ll see you around.”

“Come to me, Addison.” His eyes were back to their original inhumanly beautiful color. Though he didn’t quite look calm, he looked satisfied.

“No.”

“Come to me or I will snap your neck.”

“Okay.”

“If you had simply brought a human to me, this all could have been avoided.”

“I was just thinking the same thing.” Total lie—she wasn’t thinking a goddamn thing besides, “Shiiiiit!”

“You and I have things to discuss, and a few memories to alter along the way back to your home.”

Damn it on many counts. “Alter or wipe?”

“Alter, of course. Although my strength has returned, wiping that many minds would still be highly taxing. I prefer to save my power for other activities.”

Like…? Nah, she didn’t want to know.

He opened the door and gestured for her to go first. Which he’d probably never done before. Minions opened doors for him and she doubted chivalry ranked high on his list of valuable traits. But she went because when you gotta go, you gotta go.

“Did you know?” he asked.

What was it with that question? “Know what? That your victims come while you feed? Yeah, I heard it happens occasionally.”

“Always. They always come while I feed. If it were possible, I would show you.”

“I just heard more proof than I wanted to, thanks.”

“I have no doubt that it would be far more enjoyable to feel you come than to hear her do it.”

*****

Author Info:

Lauren Stewart lives in Northern California with two of the most amazing children that the world has ever seen. She reads almost every genre so, naturally, her writing reflects that. With every book, every story, you’ll find elements of other genres–fantasy, mystery, romance, paranormal, suspense, YA, women’s literature, all with a touch of humor because what doesn’t kill us should make us laugh.

www.ReadLaurenS.com

@ReadLaurenS

www.facebook.com/LaurenStewartAuthor

www.goodreads.com/LaurenStewart

*****

Giveaway:

5 ebook copies of Unseen

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/ba112f667/

*****

Guest Post – His Billion Dollar Baby

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His Billion Dollar Baby, Lea Nolan

I’m absolutely thrilled to welcome author Lea Nolan as she shares with us a special look into the life of her newest hero, Carter Anderson from His Billion Dollar Baby.  He’s absolutely delicious …. check it out below!

*****

Thanks so much for having me. I’m delighted to be here!

In my new book, His Billion Dollar Baby, Carter Anderson starts off as the quintessential playboy billionaire. He’s got everything money can buy–and believes money can buy everything–even happiness. That is, until he meets his match, Gwen Radley, a physical therapist at Walter Reed Medical Center, and former foster child, who knows the best things in life are free.

To learn how Carter discovers the true value of happiness, you’ll have to read the book, which is all the more easy since it’s on sale for just $0.99 for a limited time! Until then, I thought it would be fun to take a look at a few of the billionaire toys his fortune affords him. After all what good is having money if you don’t spend it?

Jaguar XJ Convertible

Source: Caranddriver.com

Carter’s car is more than just a vehicle to get him from A to B, it’s a luxury machine, intended for speed and drawing attention. As DC’s Sexiest Bachelor, he wouldn’t be expected to drive anything less. Gwen on the other hand, pilots a used Honda Civic, which proves an endless source of irritation to Carter, and provides her with a considerable amount of glee.

Italian Suits

Carter would never purchase a suit off the rack at The Men’s Warehouse. He’d sooner wear nothing at all (and look amazing!).  When clothes are required, he’s a made-to-measure kind of guy with a tailor on call. Remember when Christian Bale played Bruce Wayne/Batman and went to all the fancy galas dressed to kill? Yeah, he’s a close second to Carter Anderson.

IMAGE LOCATION AND SOURCE

Big Ass House

No billionaire worth his salt would live in a house, or even a run-of-the mill mansion. Carter lives in a manor, a grand, stately residence full of fine antiques, tapestries, and hand woven silk rugs.

IMAGE LOCATION AND SOURCE

And like all manors, they have a name, in this case River View.  I based the Anderson family residence on the real-life home of Daniel Snyder, the owner of the Washington Redskins football team, which overlooks the Potomac River. Nice digs, huh?

These are just a few of Carter’s pricey bobbles. There are lots more of course, but they become less and less important as his feelings toward Gwen grow. To see how Gwen softens Carter’s heart, I hope you’ll give His Billion Dollar Baby a try!

~Lea

*****

His Billion Dollar Baby

by Lea Nolan

Blurb:

Burned by love and grieving over his brother’s death, sexy billionaire CEO Carter Anderson wants nothing more than to protect his family. So when beautiful and unassuming physical therapist Gwen Radley shows up at the funeral, pregnant with his brother’s baby, Carter’s certain she wants an interest in the Anderson empire—and both his suspicion and attraction grow when circumstances force Gwen to move into his family’s mansion.

An orphan, Gwen’s never wanted anything more than a family, and she finds in the Andersons a place she and her baby might belong. When Gwen’s therapy expertise leads to long hours of intense, late-night collaboration on a lucrative project, the attraction between her and Carter leads to a night of white-hot passion. But Carter’s distrust remains, leading them both to wonder if he will ever embrace his brother’s baby—or the love that’s blooming between them.

***On sale for just $0.99 for a limited time! Grab it before the price goes up.***

Amazon: http://tinyurl.com/nrfhuyh

Barnes and Noble: http://tinyurl.com/kvfqzd7

Kobo: http://tinyurl.com/khetzt3

iBooks: http://tinyurl.com/m7779kq

*****

Author Info:

Lea Nolan writes smart, witty contemporary stories for adults filled with head-swooning, heart-throbbing, sweep-you-off your feet romance. She also pens books for young adults featuring bright heroines, crazy-hot heroes, diabolical plot twists, plus a dose of magic, a draft of romance, and a sprinkle of history. Born and raised on Long Island, New York, she loves the water far too much to live inland. With her heroically supportive husband and three clever children, she resides in Maryland where she scarfs down crab cakes whenever she gets the chance.

www.leanolan.com

https://www.facebook.com/LeaNolanAuthor

https://twitter.com/Lea_Nolan

http://instagram.com/leanolanauthor

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5560132.Lea_Nolan

*****

Giveaway:

Giveaway Extravaganza!

(2) $25 gift cards, (3) green shamrock necklaces, (10) magnets

(multiple winners will be chosen)

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/1cb554358/

*****

Click on the banner below to see all of the stops on the tour

Spotlight – Maltipoos Are Murder

We’re going to start the morning looking at a new mystery that looks absolutely adorable!

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Maltipoos Are Murder

By Jacqui Lane

Blurb:

Can a murder investigation keep these opposites from attracting?

Cara Rogers wants a fresh start after a slew of bad luck in Washington DC. Moving to Virginia to help her aunt run La Maison de Chien, a doggie spa, is just the peace of mind she needs. No stress. Just her aunt, the dogs, and wide-open country.  But when she finds Aunt Marian floating in the doggie swimming pool, the rest she so desperately needs flies out the window. The only witness to the death is Rex, an apricot maltipoo, and while he may not be able to talk, he’s communicating the only way he knows how—one paw at a time. And Rex’s clues lead to murder.

Can Cara keep the doggie spa afloat, convince Middleburg homicide detective Cole Sampson that Aunt Marian’s death was no accident, and keep Rex from the killer’s clutches before they all end up as dead as dogs?

Goodreads   Amazon   Barnes & Noble   Entangled

Entangled Ignite:

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/pages/Ignite-Books-an-Entangled-Imprint/561486940535898

Twitter: @EntangledSus

Steals and Deals

*****

Author Info:

Jacqueline Corcoran and Lane Stone have teamed up to write about some of their favorite topics – dogs, mysteries, and Middleburg, Virginia, which is known as the nation’s horse and hunt capital.  MALTIPOOS ARE MURDER is the first in their doggie day spa romantic suspense series.

Jacqueline Corcoran lives in Arlington, Virginia with her rescue animals, husband, and two children. She holds a Ph.D. in social work and is on faculty at the Virginia Commonwealth University. She has published numerous professional academic articles and fourteen books in her field.  Her mysteries include Maiming of the Shrew (Cozy Cat Press), A Month of Sundays (Whimsical Publications), Backlit (Etopia Press), and Memoir of Death (Etopia Press).  See her website at http://www.jacquelinecorcoran.com/

Lane Stone and her husband, Larry Korb, divide their time between Sugar Hill, Georgia and Alexandria, Virginia.  She’s the author of the Tiara Investigations Mystery series.  When not writing, she’s usually playing golf.   Her volunteer work includes raising money for women political candidates and conducting home visits for A Forever Home, a dog foster organization.  She is on the Political Science Advisory Board for Georgia State University, and she serves on Sugar Hill’s 75^th Anniversary Planning Committee.  www.LaneStoneBooks.com

Website  Twitter   Facebook

*****

Giveaway:

Doggie Gift Basket & $20 Amazon GC (2 winners)

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/1cb554372/

*****

Click on the banner below to check out other stops on the tour

 

Entangled Blast

Tags

Audra North, Boone Brux, Demon Creed, Demon Outlaws, Healing Her Heart, Honor Reclaimed, Hornet Series, Jamie K Schmidt, Katee Robert, Opening Act, Patricia Eimer, Paula Altenburg, Queen of Swords, Rosalie Lario, Sanctify series, Spellbound In Sleepy Hollow, Stanton Family series, Suleikha Snyder, The Queen's Wings, Tonya Burrows, Von Tassel Sisters anthology

Now let’s check out a few new releases from Entangled Publishing.  In the next couple of weeks we’ll see more about a few of them, including a review of Honor Reclaimed, so make sure you keep an eye out for those.

Whether you’re looking for a romance that makes you laugh, makes you ‘walk the plank’, keeps you guessing, or stars your favorite paranormal, look no further. Select books have the single-title stories you crave, and the longer length you need to really get ‘lost’ in a great book. To find out more about their titles, chat with authors, participate in special events, and to find out what books are coming next, visit the Entangled website, follow them on Twitter, and like their Facebook page.
Today I’m happy to be featuring Select’s May releases:

 

A Hornet Novel Available in Print and eCopy! Find out more! Giveaway	A Sanctify Novel Available in Print and eCopy! Find out more! Giveaway

Never show fear to a demon. Special $0.99 Introductory Price! Find out more! Giveaway	Save the Dragons Special $0.99 Introductory Price! Find out more! Giveaway

A week together could be just the cure she needs… Only 99 Cents! Find out more! Giveaway	It’s never the same old song… Only 99 Cents! Find out more! Giveaway

Fall in love,save some immortal souls, break a curse… No problem. Special $0.99 Introductory Price! Find out more! Giveaway

Plus don’t miss these two special events!

 

http://www.entangledinromance.com/2014/05/21/spreecast-with-tonya-burrows-katee-robert/

https://www.facebook.com/events/299681326861531/

 

Guest Post – Played by the Billionaire

Tags

Alexia Adams, Guide to Love series, Played by the Billionaire

Now, I’m thrilled to welcome Indulgence author Alexis Adams as she shares with us a look at her new book, Played by the Billionaire.  I can’t wait to get to know Liam better!

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Entangled’s very first imprint, Indulgence, brings us the romance we want. And the fantasy men we can’t get enough of!  Their new covers show off those rough and ready cowboys, CEOs, and alpha tycoons we crave.  Join us in celebrating the brand new look of Indulgence!

Today we have Alexia Adams and her new book Played by the Billionaire.

*****

Thank you for allowing me to share an excerpt of Played by the Billionaire on your blog today. The story is about an Internet security billionaire who takes a leave of absence from his company in order to finish his beloved brother’s mystery-romance novel. To learn about romance regular-guy style, the hero, Liam, hacks into a dating website and selects a love tutor. Except the woman he chooses, Lorelei, teaches him about a lot more than just what people without a private jet and house in Antigua do on dates. This excerpt is from their second date, regular-guy style:

“Do you want a coffee before we head off?” He stared at her mouth this time. Was he thinking about a kiss? Her lips tingled and she ran her tongue over them. His eyes widened in response.

She cleared her throat before she could answer. “No, I’m good. I had one at home.” No way was she going to risk coffee breath if Liam decided to take action on his thoughts.

“My car is around the corner—”

“I thought we’d take public transit. That way we get the real local experience.”

“Public transit?” Liam regarded her like she’d suggested they crawl on their knees around the city.

“Yes, then we don’t have to worry about parking,” she added, hoping that would seal the deal.

“But, my car…”

“Public transit or I don’t go.” She crossed her arms and waited for him to adjust to the change in plan.

“You drive a hard bargain, lady. I’m going to have to brush up on my negotiation skills.”

Lorelei smiled. At least he wasn’t having everything his way. She was determined, this time, to maintain her backbone. With previous boyfriends she’d given in on everything from where they ate to what she wore, just to keep them happy— to keep them from leaving.

“Great. Let’s get you a one-day passport so we don’t have to find correct change all the time.”

Liam grumbled something she couldn’t understand. After a minute he shrugged off his sulk and started to tease her. “You’re not one of those environmentalists, are you, who think cars are evil and everyone should ride bikes and wear hemp and bamboo clothes?”

“No, of course not. I had a car in Buffalo. It’s just everything is so convenient here I haven’t felt the need to get another one. And…” She put her hand on his shoulder and stood on tiptoe to get near his ear. “I have at least twenty pairs of leather boots,” she whispered.

Liam stopped walking and turned to face her. “Twenty pairs of leather boots? You decadent woman! Dare I hope at least one pair is thigh-high that you wear with a leather outfit?” Laughter danced in his eyes and a mischievous grin split his face.

“You may never know,” Lorelei said with a smile to match his.

*****

Played by the Billionaire

by Alexia Adams

Blurb:

Internet security guru, Liam Manning made a death-bed promise to complete his beloved brother’s manuscript. That means stepping down from running his billion-dollar empire and finding a woman to teach him about romance, regular-guy style. So, falling back on his hacking skills, he infiltrates an online dating site to find a suitable love tutor.

Lorelei Torres was raised by her hard-working mother because her loser father is behind bars. All she wants is an honest man to love and with whom she can raise a large, happy family. Relocating to San Francisco after her last boyfriend turns out to be a lying snake, her mother signs her up with an online dating agency. Maybe it’s time an impartial computer chose a man for her.

Can Liam finish the novel before Lorelei discovers his deceptions and, more critically, before she breaches the firewall around his heart?

Available from:

Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Played-Billionaire-Guide-Entangled-Indulgence-ebook/dp/B00JYZ0YDA/ref=pd_sim_sbs_kstore_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=1AN1M7V72CJ3FYTF7FKS

Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Played-Billionaire-Guide-Entangled-Indulgence-ebook/dp/B00JYZ0YDA?tag=entangpublis-20&link_code=ur2&creative=9325&camp=211189

Amazon CA: http://www.amazon.ca/Played-Billionaire-Guide-Entangled-Indulgence-ebook/dp/B00JYZ0YDA?tag=entangpublis-20&link_code=ur2&creative=9325&camp=211189

Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/played-by-the-billionaire-alexia-adams/1119357152

iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/played-by-billionaire-guide/id870177984?ign-mpt=uo%3D8

Kobo: http://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/played-by-the-billionaire-a-guide-to-love-novel

Google Books: https://play.google.com/store/books/details/Alexia_Adams_Played_by_the_Billionaire_A_Guide_to_?id=7fZuAwAAQBAJ

*****

Author Info:

Alexia once traveled the world, meeting new people, experiencing new sights and tastes. She’s lived in Canada, New Zealand, Australia, England, and France, as well as spent time in Panama and Russia. When life demanded that she stay rooted in one place, she took to vicarious voyages through the characters she created in her romance novels. Her stories reflect her love of travel and feature locations as diverse as the wind-swept prairies of Canada to hot and humid cities in Asia.

Social Media Links:

Website: http://alexia-adams.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AlexiaAdamsAuthor

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AlexiaAdamsAuth

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/alexiaadamsauth/

Tumblr: http://alexia-adams-author.tumblr.com/

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7068526.Alexia_Adams?from_search=true

*****

Giveaway:

Kindle & 10 Indulgence Books (winner’s choice)

US only

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/1cb554355/