Book Review – Always

Tags

Always, Book Review, RJ Scott, Single Dads series

I always look forward to a new Single Dads book and Scott once again gives readers all the feels!

*****

Always

Single Dads #4

by RJ Scott

Release – March 29th, 2021

Blurb:

Lives change in an instant, but with family found and forever love, there is always hope.

Impetuously putting his life on the line, Adam saved a child trapped in a car wreck and suffered career-ending injuries. Living with chronic pain, and at his lowest moments, he had friends who wouldn’t let him give up, a family who had his back, and even though his future was different from what he’d always planned, he at least had hope. When Cameron and Finn land on his doorstep, he never dreamed that he would fall in love with the small family or that maybe he’d get to be a hero again. 

Cameron goes from being a devoted husband to a single dad overnight. With his neatly planned future in ruins, he will do anything to make a new life for his son, even if it means moving to the other side of the country. Renting a room from Adam is the first step in making a home for him and Finn, but falling for the former firefighter was never part of the plan.

The shadows from Cameron’s past might take a long time to touch this fragile future, but will he have to face the consequences alone when they do? Or will there always be hope?

All buy links will be here: rjscott.co.uk/Read-Always

SINGLE DADS series

Single – rjscott.co.uk/Read-Single

Today – rjscott.co.uk/Read-Today

Promise – rjscott.co.uk/Read-Promise

Always – rjscott.co.uk/Read-Always

Listen (Coming late Summer)

Pride (Coming Christmas)

*****

Review:

Scott delivers a slow-burn story that isn’t big on action but has tons of emotion. Both Cam and Adam are struggling to find a path that works for them and meeting each other, spending time together and growing closer, could lead them to a wonderful future … if they can trust in themselves and each other.

Adam is still trying to figure out what his new normal is, and dealing with overly concerned friends and family is just making it worse. Living with constant pain and the devastation of losing his career is bad enough, but the pity and kid-glove treatment from those that love him just adds to his troubles. He hurts, emotionally and physically, but maybe new people to help is just what he needs.

Cam is dealing with the aftermath of his husband’s criminal activity and betrayals. An old friend from his past has found him a place to lie low until things calm down and he can figure out his next steps. He’s a good dad and a good man, who just got taken in by the wrong person, and he needs time to remember who he used to be. But a strong, undeniable attraction to Adam was not part of the plan.

I have enjoyed every book in this series and Scott once again delivers are winner. Adam and Cam are likable and caring people, who find themselves a bit battered by what life has thrown at them. But Adam’s house proves to be a place where they can get their feet under them, relax and learn to believe in themselves and others again. Their growing closeness, slowly developing into a supportive and caring family, makes the heart happy and leads to a HEA epilogue that gives all the smiles.

*****

Author Info:

RJ Scott, author of M/M romance.

Writing love stories with a happy ever after – cowboys, heroes, family, hockey, single dads, bodyguards

USA Today bestselling author RJ Scott has written over one hundred romance books. Emotional stories of complicated characters, cowboys, single dads, hockey players, millionaires, princes, bodyguards, Navy SEALs, soldiers, doctors, paramedics, firefighters, cops, and the men who get mixed up in their lives, always with a happy ever after.

She lives just outside London and spends every waking minute she isn’t with family either reading or writing. The last time she had a week’s break from writing, she didn’t like it one little bit, and she has yet to meet a box of chocolates she couldn’t defeat.

Website – http://rjscott.co.uk

Newsletter – http://rjscott.co.uk/rjnews

Email – rj@rjscott.co.uk

BookBub – http://bookbub.com/authors/rj-scott?follow=true

Amazon – http://amazon.com/author/rj-scott

Pinterest – http://pinterest.com/RJ_LoveLane/

Goodreads – http://goodreads.com/rjscott

Instagram – http://instagram.com/rjscott_author/

Twitter – http://twitter.com/Rjscott_author

Facebook Group – http://facebook.com/groups/Rjscott

Facebook Profile – http://www.facebook.com/author.rjscott

~

 

 

Book Review – Heart Smart

Tags

Book Review, Emma Lee Jayne, Heart Smart, Work For It series

Heart Smart, an all-new enemies to lovers contemporary romance from Emma Lee Jayne, is now available in Kindle Unlimited! 

*****

Heart Smart

Work For It #2

by Emma Lee Jayne

Blurb:

Dr. Maximillian Ramsey has a problem ….

I’m a jerk. Everyone I know or have ever worked with agrees. “Misanthropic asshole” is the term I hear most often. 

I don’t care what other people think as long as they leave me alone to focus on my research on soil microbiology. Plus, I walk with a cane thanks to a childhood accident. I have scars on my face. And if that isn’t enough to scare people off, my bad attitude and general grumpiness seal the deal. Which is just the way I like it.

Except, I’ve been short listed for one of the most prestigious academic fellowships around. To win it, I’ll have to give a series of speeches. On a stage. With an audience. While being filmed.

Yeah. None of that is going to happen.

Unfortunately, my boss has a plan. He brings in one of the communications lecturers to give me a “make over,” help me write the speeches, and manage my social media. 

But the last thing I need is some nosy, bossy, gorgeous woman meddling in my life. 

And Holly is the solution…

I’m a mere communications lecturer at a prestigious research university. I’m used to being outclassed and under-educated compared to the PhDs who surround me. 

But I’m good at what I do. Brilliant, actually.

When Max’s boss (who happens to be my ex-husband) begs me to help transform this beast of a man into someone worthy of the fellowship, I have my work cut out for me. 

It’ll take a lot of badgering, blatant manipulation, and some outright thievery to get Max to cooperate. All of which I handle with the enough professionalism and restraint that should earn me a fancy grant. 

What I can’t handle is how unexpectedly attractive I find the stubborn and brilliant man.   

This is a battle of wills and wits, and neither is prepared to admit defeat …

“Okay, people, you do not want to miss Heart Smart by Emma Lee Jayne! It’s fun and flirty and the chemistry crackles. Warning, though! It will keep you up past your bedtime!”  – New York Times bestselling author J. Kenner

‘Heart Smart’ is a full-length contemporary romance and can be read as a standalone. Book #2 in the Work For It series, Educated Romance World, Penny Reid Book Universe.

Download your copy today!

Amazon US: https://amzn.to/2IYAhYZ

Amazon UK: https://amzn.to/3m020af

Amazon CA: https://amzn.to/2J1C8g0

Amazon AU: https://amzn.to/3fpR6YQ

Amazon Print: https://amzn.to/3joCMlj

Add to Goodreads: http://bit.ly/3b0S9yw

Audiobook: https://bit.ly/389p15L

*****

Excerpt:

He stands up and shrugs out of his wet duster. I take it from him. It’s still dripping, so I walk into the back to hang it up in the work area where it can drip on the linoleum instead of the wood floors. When I turn back, I see Max has also shucked his jacket and draped it over the back of a nearby chair.

And he’s unbuttoning his shirt.

My steps slow. Then stop.

He’s looking down, so he doesn’t see my mouth drop open as he shrugs out of his oxford shirt. He’s wearing a white T-shirt on under his oxford.

I never, not in a million years, would have thought wearing a white shirt under a dress shirt would be inherently sexy. It shouldn’t be.

It’s oddly formal. It calls up images of old-world elegance and cuff links.

But it’s also just . . . hot.

Because while all of Max’s other clothes are ill-fitting—including the pants he’s still wearing—the crisp white undershirt is snug. It highlights every one of those perfect muscles I’ve been trying not to think about since I saw them at his house that day.

Every. Single. One.

From his stupidly broad shoulders to that narrow waist.

I’m still staring—who am I kidding? I’m still drooling—when he looks up from carefully draping his shirt over this jacket.

I must look like a pervy cartoon with bugging eyes and a long, dangling tongue, because he clears his throat and says awkwardly, “I don’t like having hair caught in my collar.”

I nod mutely.

“So I took off my shirt.”

I nod again. Still dumbstruck.

But surely I’ll be able to speak again sometime in the next couple hours.

“I hope that’s okay.”

I clear my throat.

Because the whole struck-dumb-by-his-muscles thing is starting to get ridiculous.

“Yes.” I swallow. “Absolutely. Whatever you need.”

God, I hope that didn’t sound like a proposition.

I clear my throat again and quickly add, “To feel comfortable. You should do whatever you need to feel comfortable. That’s the point, right? You should be comfortable and I should be . . .”

Silent.

I should be silent.

Because, oh my God. Dumbstruck was so much better than this rambling mess.

“Firmer is better,” he blurts.

“Excuse me?”

He blushes and presses his lips together, before saying, “When you’re washing my hair. Or touching me. A firmer touch is better than a light one.”

I nod, the pieces falling into place. I had read that people with sensory issues and people on the spectrum sometimes find light touches over-stimulating.

“Thank you for telling me.” I want to say more. Something that will get him to open up to me. But is that really a good idea? Do I really need more ideas about how Max likes to be touched?

Um . . . that is a big, fat no. No, I do not. Because I’m only touching him to cut his hair and trim his beard. I do not need to be getting ideas beyond that.

*****

Review:

Max is grumpy, anti-social, impatient, and too smart for his own good. And more often than not he comes across as a jerk. But he also has a kind heart, when he grasps the social cues, and has a passion for helping the world. With the understanding of the right person, he’s definitely a keeper.

While Holly develops a pretty good grasp of what makes Max tick most of the time, she also realizes she’s pretty much his opposite. While she also has a passion for helping others, she also considers herself majorly flighty and of pretty normal intelligence. She’s definitely no match for uber-smart and overly organized Max.

I love these two together. Holly does a great job of poking Max just a little bit out of his norm but still appreciating the way he’s wired. And Max fully embraces Holly’s enthusiasm and heart, even when she’s irritating him. Adorably fun, and funny, Heart Smart had me til the very end.

(There are some complaints that the main point of the book – Max’s makeover – is mostly glossed over. Holly cleans him up and gets him an easy to understand speech to give but there really isn’t a lot of time spent between Holly & Max actually helping him be better at interacting with people. While I admit that’s true, the interactions between them that we do get a fun and lead to a satisfying HEA so, for a light-hearted romance, I cant complain too much. There’s also some concern for how Jayne handles the neurodiverse in the story but I’m not familiar enough with it to be able to comment. If that’s a possible trigger, please be aware.)

*****

Author Info:

I write the kinds of books I want to read. Fast-paced books with lots of world-building, snarky heroines, and swoony heroes. I love story, pop culture, gossip, and baked goods. I’m a modern-day hippy and certified LEGO nerd.

I live in the Austin, Texas hill country, with my geeky husband and two extremely geeky kids. We have dogs, chickens, cats, and more LEGOs than should be allowed by law. Oh, and I stress bake. So if my characters talk about food a lot, that’s why.

Emma also writes as Rita award winning author Emily McKay.

Find Emma Lee Jayne online

Website: http://emmaleejayne.com/

Goodreads: http://bit.ly/3aWXAhO

Facebook: https://bit.ly/3aYlucC

Pinterest: http://bit.ly/3866I1W

Instagram: https://bit.ly/3523Y3x

*****

Connect with Smartypants Romance

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Book Review – Mr Right Across The Street

Tags

Book Review, Kathryn Freeman, Mr Right Across The Street

Fun, but full of angst, Freeman delivers a story with a good mix of drama, humor, and feels.

*****

Mr Right Across The Street

by Kathryn Freeman

Blurb:

Mia Abbott’s move to Manchester was supposed to give her time and space from all the disastrous romantic choices she’s made in her past. But then the hot guy who lives opposite – the one who works out every day at exactly 10 a.m., not that Mia has noticed thank-you-very-much – starts leaving notes in his window…for her.

Bar owner Luke Doyle has his own issues to deal with but as he shows Mia the sites of her new city he also shows her what real romance looks like for the first time. And when he cooks up a signature cocktail in her honour, she realises that the man behind the bar is even more enticing than any of his creations. And once she’s had a taste she knows it will never be enough!

Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08MX8VJX1

Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08MX8VJX1

*****

Review:

I’ve seen quite a few complaints about how often Mia is talked about as being “different” than the other girls. It didn’t bother me as such, I just saw it as part of how poorly she thought of herself and ties directly to her past troubles on the romance front. She’s got all sorts of issues, with believing in herself & in others, and it creates plenty of ups & downs. But with patience, and help, she may figure it out.

It’s enjoyable getting to know Luke as Mia does, seeing how he’s turned into the good time guy he is today and the big-heart that he hides underneath his easy smile. He’s fun and funny, a good friend and has plenty of potential to be a great partner.  While the reformed rake is an oft-used romance plot, I felt that Freeman does it pretty well. We understand why he’s the way he is and that he’s just been waiting for the right person to shake him up, to get him to see his life a little differently, and to want something more.

You definitely have to be in the mood for a bit of drama to enjoy Freeman’s latest. Both Mia and Luke have been burned in the past and are letting it affect their current romantic choices – trust issues, ex issues, self-esteem problems … the road to a HEA has quite a few bumps but Mr Right Across the Street delivers plenty of smiles as well!

*****

Author Info:

A former pharmacist, I’m now a medical writer who also writes romance. Some days a racing heart is a medical condition, others it’s the reaction to a sexy hero. 

With a husband who asks every Valentine’s Day whether he has to buy a card (yes, he does), any romance is all in my head. Then again, his unstinting support of my career change proves love isn’t always about hearts and flowers – and heroes come in many disguises.

Website:  http://kathrynfreeman.co.uk

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

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/KathrynFreeman1

*****

Book Review – Best Laid Plans

Tags

Best Laid Plans, Book Review, Garnet Run series, Roan Parrish

Who wants a book that is just full of all the feels?

*****

Best Laid Plans

Garnet Run, #2

by Roan Parrish

Imprint: Carina Press (Carina Adores)

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Romantic Leads: Male/Male

On-Sale: February 23, 2021

Format: Trade Paperback

Price: $14.99 US

ISBN: 9781335924803

Blurb:

A man who’s been moving his whole life finally finds a reason to stay put.

Charlie Matheson has spent his life taking care of things. When his parents died two days before his eighteenth birthday, he took care of his younger brother, even though that meant putting his own dreams on hold. He took care of his father’s hardware store, building it into something known several towns over. He took care of the cat he found in the woods…so now he has a cat.

When a stranger with epic tattoos and a glare to match starts coming into Matheson’s Hardware, buying things seemingly at random and lugging them off in a car so beat-up Charlie feels bad for it, his instinct is to help. When the man comes in for the fifth time in a week, Charlie can’t resist intervening.

Rye Janssen has spent his life breaking things. Promises. His parents’ hearts. Leases. He isn’t used to people wanting to put things back together—not the crumbling house he just inherited, not his future and certainly not him. But the longer he stays in Garnet Run, the more he can see himself belonging there. And the more time he spends with Charlie, the more he can see himself falling asleep in Charlie’s arms…and waking up in them.

Is this what it feels like to have a home—and someone to share it with?

Get Your Copy Today

Harlequin.com: https://www.harlequin.com/shop/books/9781335924803_best-laid-plans.html 

IndieBound: https://www.indiebound.org/book/9781335924803 

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Best-Laid-Plans-Garnet-Run/dp/1335924809 

Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/best-laid-plans-roan-parrish/1138272513 

Apple Books: https://books.apple.com/us/book/best-laid-plans/id1529725794 

Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/books/details/Roan_Parrish_Best_Laid_Plans?id=ogL6DwAAQBAJ 

Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/best-laid-plans-80

*****

Excerpt:

Through the glass front door, Charlie saw an ominously smoking car grind to a halt in the parking lot. It looked like it had originally been a late-eighties two-door Chevy Beretta but had since been Frankensteined of multiple vehicles’ pieces, many of them different colors and some of them clinging desperately together, helped only by electrical tape and grime.

Charlie winced, fingers itching to put the car together properly—or, perhaps more practically, drive it to the junkyard and put it out of its misery.

Marie was bagging Bill Duff’s purchases when the door burst open. In stepped a man Charlie’d never seen before.

He certainly would have remembered.

Long, dark hair fell messily over his shoulders. He was slim and angular, with a slinky walk that made him look like he was made of hips and shoulders. The cuffs and collar of his long-sleeved T-shirt were worn rough and the knees of his jeans blown out. He looked like ten miles of dirt road.

Charlie raised a hand at the newcomer.

“Welcome to Matheson’s. I’m Charlie. Can I help you find anything?”

The man’s light, kohl-lined eyes darted around, as if Charlie might be talking to someone else, then, looking confused, said, “Uh. No.”

He hurried off down aisle one and Charlie let him alone. Some people didn’t want help or attention while they shopped, and Charlie was just glad of a new customer—and a young one at that. Business was okay, but with each passing year overnight shipping and Amazon ate further into his profit margin, particularly with customers under forty.

The stranger walked up and down the aisles, muttering inaudibly, swearing audibly, and consulting his phone every minute or so, as if the answers he wouldn’t accept from Charlie lay there.

After the better part of half an hour, he approached the register, arms full, though there were baskets and small carts available.

“Find everything okay?” Charlie asked as the man dumped his purchases on the counter.

“Uh, sure.”

He sounded distracted and was glaring at the items he’d chosen.

“You need any help with…” Charlie gestured at the hardware equivalent to marshmallows, cheese, and spaghetti before him.

The man raised a dramatic dark eyebrow but didn’t say anything. His eyes, Charlie could see now, were gray, and his skin was pale, as if he were a black-and-white image in a color world.

That pale glare lanced him, and he looked away, ringing and bagging things up.

The man swiped his credit card like he was ripping something in half and had to do it again when the machine didn’t get a read. He glared at it.

When Charlie handed him his bags he couldn’t help needling the man a little.

“Need any help getting things out to your car?” he asked, as he’d ask anyone.

The man glared down at the bags he was holding, then up at Charlie.

“No,” he said, like the word was his favorite one and, in his mouth, capable of expressing every feeling and thought he had.

“Okay, then,” Charlie said, purposefully cheery. “Have a good one.”

The man narrowed his eyes like there was a barb hidden in the words he simply hadn’t found yet.

“Uh-huh,” he said, and wrinkled his nose suspiciously, backing out the door.

“Who was that?” Marie asked. Charlie turned to see her lurking in the doorway from the back room.

“I don’t know,” Charlie said.

But he was damn sure gonna find out.

*****

Review:

Based on the blurb, you’d probably expect quite a bit of angst here but Parrish has a surprising light hand with it. There are a few growing pains as Charlie and Rye get to know each other and fall in love, but it handled with minimal drama and a fair amount of sweetness & compassion.

For having a life big on struggle and light on close connections, Rye has an amazing understanding of people. He may be blunt and a little prickly but he’s got a big heart and a surprising perception of the complexity of relationships. Living with a lot of different people, with a lot of different quirks, has given him amazing insight into what makes people tick.

Charlie has spent so many years making sure that the rest of the world is happy and getting exactly what they want that he’s forgotten about himself. With a little help from Rye, he starts to explore who HE is and what he wants. And what he wants most is more time with Rye.

Best Laid Plans is a delightful and emotional read about two people finding each other, learning about themselves, feeling seen (and supported) for the first time, and inevitably falling in love.

*****

Author Info:

Roan Parrish lives in Philadelphia, where she is gradually attempting to write love stories in every genre.

When not writing, she can usually be found cutting her friends’ hair, meandering through whatever city she’s in while listening to torch songs and melodic death metal, or cooking overly elaborate meals. She loves bonfires, winter beaches, minor chord harmonies, and self-tattooing. One time she may or may not have baked a six-layer chocolate cake and then thrown it out the window in a fit of pique.

Website: https://www.roanparrish.com/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/RoanParrish 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roanparrish/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/parrishorperish/ 

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14070842.Roan_Parrish

Garnet Run series available now 

Book 1: Better Than People

Book 2: Best Laid Plans

*****

Carina Adores is home to highly romantic contemporary love stories featuring beloved romance tropes, where LGBTQ+ characters find their happily-ever-afters.

A new Carina Adores title is available each month in trade paperback, ebook and audiobook formats.

• The Hideaway Inn by Philip William Stover (available now!)
• The Girl Next Door by Chelsea M. Cameron (available now!)
• Just Like That by Cole McCade (available now!)
• Hairpin Curves by Elia Winters (available now!)
• The Love Study by Kris Ripper (available now!)
• The Secret Ingredient by KD Fisher (available now!)
• Just Like This by Cole McCade (available now!)
• Teddy Spenser Isn’t Looking for Love by Kim Fielding (available now!)
• Knit, Purl, A Baby and a Girl by Hettie Bell (coming March 30)
• The Hate Project by Kris Ripper (coming April 27)
• Hard Sell by Hudson Lin (coming May 25)

Review – Love and Ohana Drama

Tags

Book Review, Love and Ohana Drama, Melissa Baldwin, Twist of Fate series

This one had me dreaming of a trip to Hawaii!

*****

Love and Ohana Drama

Twist of Fate series

by Melissa Baldwin

Blurb:

Love and Ohana Drama is a romantic comedy that explores the challenges of family dynamics and reminds readers that there is always hope for a second chance. Sometimes the most challenging situations bring the most happiness . . .

Twenty-something Cora Fletcher is a book-loving public relations executive who lives with her overly Zen best friend and attention-loving cat. Newly single and focusing on her exciting career, she feels like she’s in a good place. She’s even been invited on an all-expenses-paid Hawaiian vacation! The only catch—it’s a family reunion . . . and her family can be a lot to handle.

Cora vows to not let that get in the way, but even before the family has boarded the plane, the ohana drama begins. As usual, there’s the sister-in-law who is bent on causing friction, the self-centered cousins, and the aunt who loves to party a bit too much. Her mother has filled the itinerary with endless activities, and she’s even invited Cora’s ex-boyfriend in an attempt to get them back together.

Although she feels overwhelmed, Cora gets a blast from her past that could impact her life forever. This is one welcome reunion she did not expect . . .

Will Cora make it through a week of family togetherness? And will she be able to say aloha to someone she thought was out of her life forever?

UK – https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B07YQDMSRC

US – https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07YQDMSRC

*****

Review:

Love and Ohana Drama is an awesome beach read, perfect for an imaginary getaway (especially if it’s cold and wintry where you are too). There’s enough wackiness, drama, fun, and hijinks to keep you entertained and coming back for more.

Cora doesn’t quite fit in with her family and she’s not looking forward to days together for a family reunion, even if it is to celebrate her parents’ anniversary. Being in Hawaii does help take some of the sting out of it … until she finds out her ex-boyfriend in coming along as well. Things are going about as well as she expected … then she runs into her childhood crush. Maybe things are looking up? Of course, it’s not smooth sailing, especially with her family around, but love might be there if she’s willing to take a chance.

Baldwin’s latest is entertaining, with enjoyable (albeit self-centered) characters and a feel good ending all around.

*****

Author Info:

Melissa Baldwin is a planner-obsessed Disney fan who still watches Beverly Hills 90210 reruns and General Hospital.

She’s a wife, mother, and journal keeper, who finally decided to write the book she talked about for years. She took her dream to the next level, and is now an award-winning, bestselling author of nineteen Romantic Comedy and Cozy Mystery novels and novellas. Melissa writes about charming, ambitious, and real women, and she considers these leading ladies to be part of her tribe.

When she isn’t deep in the writing zone, this multitasking master organizer keeps busy by spending time with her family, chauffeuring her daughter, traveling, attempting yoga poses, and going on rides at Disney World.

Amazon- https://www.amazon.com/Melissa-Baldwin/e/B012M1S100?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1579551179&sr=8-1

Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/authormelissabaldwin/

Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/mbaldwinauthor/

Twitter- https://twitter.com/mpbaldwinauthor

BookBub– https://www.bookbub.com/authors/melissa-baldwin

Website- http://www.authormelissabaldwin.com

*****

Giveaway:

$20 Amazon Gift Card (Open INT)

*Terms and Conditions –Worldwide entries welcome.  Please enter using the Rafflecopter box below.  The winner will be selected at random via Rafflecopter from all valid entries and will be notified by Twitter and/or email. If no response is received within 7 days then Rachel’s Random Resources reserves the right to select an alternative winner. Open to all entrants aged 18 or over.  Any personal data given as part of the competition entry is used for this purpose only and will not be shared with third parties, with the exception of the winners’ information. This will passed to the giveaway organiser and used only for fulfilment of the prize, after which time Rachel’s Random Resources will delete the data.  I am not responsible for despatch or delivery of the prize.

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/33c69494406/

*****

Review – Christmas at the Marshmallow Café

Tags

Book Review, Christmas at the Marshmallow Cafe, CP Ward

This is my first time reading a book by CP Ward but I can guarantee it won’t be my last!

*****

Christmas at the Marshmallow Café

by CP Ward

Blurb:

When downtrodden checkout assistant Bonnie Green receives a letter from a mysterious uncle, she can hardly believe her eyes.

Gifted a hundred-year lease on a famous cafe situated in the middle of a mythical theme park, Bonnie sets off with her best friend Debbie on an adventure to a hidden valley in the Lake District where they will find new friendship, love, and happiness, all set against the magic of Christmas … and more marshmallows than they can possibly eat….

Purchase Link – https://books2read.com/cp-ward-christmas-at-the-marshmallow-cafe

Only 99p/c until 20th December!

*****

Excerpt:

Bonnie has grown up with the memories of her father’s tales of the semi-mythical Christmas Land. But will the reality match up to her image?

‘There’s a lake in the centre in the design of a heart. In winter it freezes over, and the water becomes as icy-blue as the sky. If you get up just before dawn and look out of the window, you’ll see elves in green and gold racing across it, enjoying themselves before heading to the toy workshops to begin their day’s work.’

Bonnie smiled. When she looked back on it now, the stories were cringe-worthy, storybook fantasy. At the time, though, she had hung on her father’s every word.

‘When you first awake and draw back the curtains of your chalet, you’ll immediately be blinded by the snow glittering off the trees as the sun rises. Despite the cold—far colder than you could ever expect in England, because this is a special place, remember—you must certainly open your window, and drop a few seeds out onto the window ledge for the local robins. Each chalet has a resident bird which will surely come to see you. While not quite tame enough to touch, it will still give you the honour of its company before it sets off on its errands for the day. And then, listen quietly, for in the still of the morning before the park really wakes up, you can hear the reindeer calling each other among the trees.’

Bonnie sighed and wiped a tear from her eye. At the end of each story, he had left her with the same promise.

‘And when you’re old enough to appreciate it, we’ll all go to Christmas Land together, where you can experience the magic of Christmas at any time of the year.’

He had died before fulfilling his promise. Bonnie didn’t blame him, of course, but he had taken the magic of her childhood with him to the grave. The real world had rushed in, filling her life with the chores of washing plates and picking up dirty glasses, stuffing soiled sheets into industrial washers and scrubbing the crust off toilets. She had saved enough to pay her way into college and had dreamed of becoming a nurse. Donald had wanted her as a stay-at-home mum, however, and she had been happy, raising her children. She hadn’t even noticed that none of his promises—of a better life, a nicer street, a bigger house and a newer car—ever materialised. At least not for her. He had saved plenty to keep his new hat lady happy, leaving Bonnie as a forty-something with no qualifications forced to sit behind a checkout at Morrico to keep her head above the waters of her mortgage.

And the worst thing was that her children blamed her for everything.

She was still reminiscing on the past when a large white billboard came up on the left-hand side.

CHRISTMAS LAND

WHERE DREAMS COME TRUE

14 MILES – TURN LEFT NEXT JUNCTION

Bonnie shoved Debbie to wake her, slowing the car at the same time.

‘Look,’ she said, pointing as they passed the billboard, its chipped paint and one rusted metal leg horrifyingly apparent. Someone had thrown a bag of trash at it at some point, and now a plastic supermarket bag hung from a splinter of wood next to the word TRUE. It felt like a sign, all right.

*****

Review:

Bonnie is a little bit worn down, living a life that hasn’t exactly gone the way she expected. An unexpected inheritance from an uncle she hardly remembers means she has to decide exactly how much of a risk she’s willing to take.

I really liked Bonnie – she’s very normal but facing some not so normal choices. With a little push from her younger, bolder best friend, Bonnie quickly finds herself on an adventure that has the just might change her life.

While not a romance exactly, Ward’s newest definitely left me feeling festive and happy. It’s full of quirky, lovely people and an opportunity to find a place where you truly belong.

*****

Author Info:

CP Ward is an author from Cornwall in the UK.

Social Media Link – https://www.facebook.com/groups/510678469409835

*****

Book Review – In for a Penny

Tags

Book Review, Dark Knights at Peaceful Harbor, In For A Penny, Melissa Foster, The Whiskeys series

Foster sure knows how to give her readers page turning love stories that will keep everyone coming back for more!

*****

In for a Penny (A Whiskey Novella)

The Whiskeys: Dark Knights at Peaceful Harbor

by Melissa Foster

Releasing Dec 9th, 2020

World Literary Press

Blurb:

Catch up with your favorite characters and enjoy Bones and Sarah’s wedding while falling in love with the newest Whiskey-world couple, Penny Wilson and Scott Beckley, in this Whiskey series novella.

When everything you want is right in front of you, but it’s still out of reach…

Penny Wilson has a successful business, more friends than a girl could ask for, and a boyfriend she’s madly and passionately in love with. Scott Beckley is honest, loyal, hands down the best lover on the planet, and absolutely gaga over his nieces and nephews. Scott’s a keeper…as long as Penny doesn’t ever want to hear those three magical words that would take their relationship to the next level. Scott escaped abusive parents at seventeen and was forced to find his way alone in the world. Even though it’s been more than a decade and he’s reunited with his estranged sisters and built a good life in Peaceful Harbor, Maryland, he’s still tortured by his past. Penny knows he loves her with everything he has, but for a girl who wants a family and a guy who is afraid of having one, love might not be enough.

Goodreads link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/54635060-in-for-a-penny

Goodreads series link: https://www.goodreads.com/series/204908-the-whiskeys

KINDLE: https://smarturl.it/IFAP_Kindle

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*****

Review:

So part of me wishes this one had been longer but most of me realizes that I should enjoy all the goodness for what it is! I was intrigued about Penny and Scott as I read The Gritty Truth and I was super excited to see their story was next. We join them a few months into their relationship and while we missed out on those early moments what we are given is definitely super satisfying.

Scott is dealing with a lot of fear and anxiety over how his past at the hands of his abusive parents might impact his future as a husband and a father. He’s convinced himself that he’s better off not taking the chance of being a father in case he might turn abusive too. But the depth of his feelings for Penny has him selfishly wanting to keep her, even knowing how badly she wants a family one day.

Penny may want kids but she finds herself asking herself if she wants Scott more … and if maybe one day he might change his mind. She understands his concerns but she also knows how wonderful he is with his nieces and nephews. How kinda and caring he is to his sisters, and how how amazing he is with her. If only he could see himself the way that everyone else does, surely his doubts would disappear. Right?

These two together are a fabulous match and I loved every minute spent with them (here’s where that wishing for more comes in). Even though readers can figure out how things are going to go that doesn’t stop the journey from being a good one. Foster brings a ton of emotion as both Scott and Penny evaluate their relationships, themselves, and what they want out of the future. It definitely left me as big a gooey mess as one of Penny’s famous sundaes.

*****

Read the entire Whiskey series!

Tru Blue (FREE for a limited time in digital format)

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Also available in audio book, narrated by Paul Woodson

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Truly, Madly, Whiskey (Now Available)

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Also available in audio book, narrated by Paul Woodson

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Driving Whiskey Wild (Now Available)

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Also available in audio book, narrated by Paul Woodson

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Wicked Whiskey Love (Now Available)

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Also available in audio book, narrated by Erin Mallon and Zachary Webber

AMAZON: http://smarturl.it/WWLa_Amazon

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Mad About Moon ($1.99 for a limited time in digital format)

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Also available in audio book, narrated by Devra Woodward and Jacob Morgan

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Taming My Whiskey (Now Available)

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Also available in audio book, narrated by Devra Woodward and Aiden Snow

AMAZON: https://smarturl.it/TMWa_Amazon

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The Gritty Truth (Now Available)

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Running on Diesel (rel Sept 15, 2021)

KINDLE: https://smarturl.it/ROD_Kindle

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*****

Author Info:

Melissa Foster is a New York Times & USA Today bestselling and award-winning author. She writes sexy and heartwarming contemporary romance and new adult romance with emotionally compelling characters that stay with you long after you turn the last page. Melissa’s emotional journeys are lovingly erotic and always family oriented–perfect beach reads for contemporary romance lovers who enjoy reading about wealthy heroes and smart, sassy heroines.

Website:  http://www.melissafoster.com/
Facebook:  http://www.facebook.com/MelissaFosterAuthor
Twitter:  https://twitter.com/Melissa_Foster
GoodReads:  https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3023973.Melissa_Foster
Newsletter: http://melissafoster.com/newsletter/
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/melissa-foster
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissafoster_author/

~

Review – Cupcakes & Christmas

Tags

Book Review, Cupcakes & Christmas, RJ Scott

Scott’s newest is a straightforward, sweet, feel good read.

*****

Cupcakes & Christmas

by RJ Scott

Cover Design: Meredith Russell

Length: 67,000 words approx.

Blurb:

The story of long nights in a wintry mountain hotel, a baking show with secrets, a snowman called Jeremy, and finding the greatest love of all.

After winning season four of ratings hit the World’s Best Baking Show, Brody Thomas had become a sought-after cake maker to the stars. Happily married, he dreamed of a bright future, but his perfect life imploded when he discovered that his husband had done nothing but lie to him. A year later, Brody is mid-divorce, and his life has been turned upside down, so being part of the WBBS charity event is excellent timing. He’s sure it will give him time away from home and space to get his head straight, only he never expected to meet the man of his dreams in a snowy Alberta.

Winning season one of WBBS gave Justin Mallory a chance to outrun the demons of a childhood lost in the foster system. He’s a social media influencer, with millions of followers, and works every hour to make money that equals security for the rest of his life. His marketing team signs him up for the WBBS Christmas charity show, but he’s convinced he’ll fall at the first hurdle. Only, after a few days in the competition, his worry isn’t that he’ll be the first to leave, it’s that he’ll lose his heart to a rival baker, Brody.

ALL BUY LINKS

*****

Review:

I have to admit that I really didn’t find Justin that appealing early on. He was young when he won the baking show and has managed to turn himself into an “influencer” but he seems to have gotten too caught up in it. He didn’t have a solid childhood so he’s trying to get to the point he feels comfortable about his financial future. It’s caused him to make a few poor choices and he’s starting to struggle with it. And meeting a truly good soul in Brody only emphasizes how lost he’s become. He stumbles a few times but the developing relationship with Brody has him figuring out the right thing to do.

Brody is much more appealing from the first. He might have taken a hit to his self-esteem but his heart is good. And meeting Justin has him realizing that his ex might not have broken him after all. He’s a positive influence on Justin and quickly the two are spending time together, growing closer.

Cupcakes & Christmas is sweet, simple, and full of all the good things that makes a holiday romance work. Two people meet, develop feelings for one another, face their demons, and figure out a way to have a future together, which makes for a straight-up, feel-good read. The best kind for this time of year!

*****

Author Info:

RJ Scott is a USA TODAY bestselling author of over 140 romance and suspense novels. From bodyguards to hockey stars, princes to millionaires, cowboys to military heroes to every-day heroes, she believes that love is love and every man deserves a happy ending.

Find RJ here: 

Amazon | BookBub | Facebook

Also, Never miss a release

*****

Book Review – Rescue You

Tags

Book Review, Elysia Whisler, Rescue You

This one grabbed me from the first page more than any other book I’ve read lately.

*****

Rescue You

by Elysia Whisler

ISBN: 9780778310082

Publication Date: October 27, 2020

Publisher: MIRA Books

Blurb:

She needs a fresh start. He’s got scars that haven’t healed. With the help of some rescue dogs, they’ll discover that everyone deserves a chance at happiness.

After a year of heartbreak and loss, the only thing keeping Constance afloat is the dog rescue she works at with her sister, Sunny. Desperate for a change, Constance impulsively joins a new gym, even though it seems impossibly hard, and despite the gym’s prickly owner.

Rhett Santos keeps his gym as a refuge for his former-military brothers and to sweat out his own issues. He’s ready to let the funny redhead join, but unprepared for the way she wiggles past his hard-won defenses.

When their dog rescue is threatened, the sisters fight to protect it. And they need all the help they can get. As Rhett and Constance slowly open up to each other, they’ll find that no one is past rescuing; what they need is the right person—or dog—to save them.

Harlequin | Indiebound | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Books-A-Million
Walmart | Google | iBooks | Kobo

*****

Excerpt:

One

Constance slammed on her brakes. Steam rose from the street as rain gurgled through the ditches. She killed the engine, stepped into the pattering droplets and scanned the shoulder of the road. Nothing there but the remains of a goose carcass. “Where are you, boy?” Constance gave a low whistle.

It hadn’t been her imagination. The picked-over goose only made her more certain she’d seen a dog, weaving through the foggy afternoon air like a phantom. A lost dog, with his head bent against the rain as he loped along the muddy ditch.

Constance whistled again. Silence, but for the sound of rain hitting the trees that lined the road. “Maybe I’m just tired.” She’d done a lot of massages today, which made her feel wrung out. Constance almost ducked back into the van, but halted.

There he was: a white face with brown patches, peeking at her from behind a bush. “Hey, boy.” Constance squatted down, making herself smaller, less threatening. The dog watched, motionless. Constance drew a biscuit from her coat, briefly recalling the cashier’s amusement at the grocery store today when she’d emptied her pockets on the counter, searching for her keys. Five dog biscuits had been in the pile with her phone, a used tissue and the grocery list.

“Dog mom, huh?” the elderly cashier had said.

“Something like that.” More like dog aunt, to all of the rescues at Pittie Place. Her sister, Sunny, had quite the brood.

Constance laid the biscuit near her foot and waited. A moment later, the bush rustled and the dog approached. He had short hair and big shoulders. He got only as close as he needed to, then stretched his neck out for the prize. As he gingerly took the biscuit, Constance noted a droopy abdomen and swollen nipples, like a miniature cow.

So. He was a she. Constance inched toward her. The dog held on to the biscuit, but reared back. Constance extended her fist, slowly, so the mom could smell her. “You got puppies somewhere?”

The dog whimpered, but crunched up the biscuit.

“Where are your puppies?”

The dog whimpered again. Her legs shook. Her fur was muddy, feet caked with dirt. She had blood on her muzzle— probably from the dead goose. By her size and coloring, Constance decided she was a pit bull.

Constance rose up, patted her thigh and headed toward her van. She slid open the side door, grabbed a blanket and spread it out, but when she turned around, the dog was several yards away. Her brown-and-white head was low as she wandered beneath a streetlamp, the embodiment of despair in the drizzle that danced through the light.

Constance followed, slipping on the leaves that clogged the drainage ditch. The dog glanced once over her shoulder, but her pace didn’t quicken. Constance decided her calm demeanor was working, keeping the dog from fleeing. And let’s be honest: the biscuit hadn’t hurt. Chances were, the dog would be happy to have more as soon as she got wherever she was going. “Let’s see where you’re headed, then. Show me if you’ve got a home.”

Constance followed her across the road, around the curve and down the narrow lane. Frogs popped like happy corn all over the slick street, but the chill of the oncoming winter slithered through Constance’s blood.

She followed the dog for a good quarter mile. Even before she hooked a left down the unpaved road hidden behind the trees, Constance had figured out that the mama was headed to one of the handful of empty places that sat decomposing on the hundred or so acres the Matteri family owned. Constance paused only long enough to squelch the sizzle of anger that bubbled up inside before she pressed on, determined to know if the dog was a stray or a neglected mother from Janice Matteri’s puppy mill.

Constance took the same turn and watched as the dog neared the abandoned house up ahead. Nobody had lived there in years. It was only a matter of time before it became condemned. The dog bypassed the crumbling porch of the old colonial and went around back. Constance knew little daylight was left, and she hadn’t brought a flashlight. She broke into a trot, clutched her coat tighter around her and didn’t slow until the dog came back into view. Constance followed her, her heart thumping harder with each step.

The dog passed the rusted chain-link fence and disappeared over a rise in the property, near an old shed so overgrown with trees it was only recognizable by a pale red door. Just as she reached the hill, Constance heard a squeak. The sort of high–pitched noise that echoes from everywhere and nowhere all at once. Another squeak came. And another. She crested the hill and saw the dog slink inside the shed door. Constance got to the shed and pushed inside. The dog had reached her destination: a battered old mattress, three shades of brown, lying a few feet inside. The mewls, now loud and hungry, came from a shredded section of the mattress.

Constance narrowed her eyes. At first, she counted only two bobbing, brown heads, but as she drew closer there was a third. Then a fourth. The last one didn’t move nearly as much, just sort of waded on his stomach. The puppies had cocoa-colored fur and black muzzles. Eyes open. The ones that moved didn’t really walk, just stumbled into each other, like drunks. Mama dog curled around them and they all wiggled toward her abdomen.

Constance knelt down next to the mattress and watched the suckling puppies. She decided they were about two weeks old. The air in the shed smelled of sour milk, poop and urine. She dug out another biscuit and reached, slowly, her hand in a fist to protect her fingers, her gaze on the mama for any sign she was upset, such as pinned ears, bared teeth or a raised ridge of fur down the back. The energy around the mom and her pups was calm, to the point of exhausted. Constance had certainly helped with enough of Sunny’s dogs over the years to know. She offered the biscuit and the mom took it. With her mouth busy, Constance carefully touched the smallest puppy, who shook so hard the tremble came from deep inside, beneath his skin and fur, straight from his bones.

Constance rose slowly and did a quick search of the vicinity for more puppies, which turned up nothing but trash, vermin and an old orange crate, which she brought over to the mattress.

Now to see if Mom was going to accept help.

Though daylight was precious, Constance waited until the pups were done suckling before she offered a third treat. “Let’s go back to my place,” Constance said as Mom accepted the biscuit. “My sister has a rescue for critters, just like you. And I help her all the time. You’ll be safe there. Does that sound okay?”

While Mama crunched, Constance reached for the two pups closest to her and, keeping an eye on Mom the whole time, she lifted them and settled them in the crate. Mom’s chewing quickened, so Constance acted fast, lifting the last two pups swiftly but carefully. She rose to her feet, crate in her arms. The mother dog was on her feet almost ahead of her, pointing her muzzle at the crate and whining.

Constance knew the mom would follow her anywhere she took those pups, but she also lacked any signs of aggression, almost as though she knew that this was their only chance. Or as Pete, owner of Canine Warriors and Constance’s longtime childhood friend, would put it, “You just got something about you, Cici. Everybody trusts you. People. Dogs. The damn Devil himself.”

Constance headed back to her van, chasing the sunset. As expected, the mother followed. Once to the vehicle, Constance opened the van and set the crate full of pups next to the blanket she’d spread out earlier. The mama dog leaped in after them.

Constance slid the door closed, settled behind the steering wheel and let out a great sigh. Mission accomplished. She edged down the long, lonely road. The rain pattered on the windshield and the scent of dirty puppies hit her nose. She’d take them home tonight and get them settled in, see how they reacted to a new environment, then text Sunny in the morning. Constance had worked with enough dogs, and people, to know that introducing another new person this evening was bad news. Let Mama get used to Constance first, and get some good food and rest, before she was moved to Pittie Place.

Tonight, at least, this girl and her babies belonged with Constance.

Excerpted from Rescue You by Elysia Whisler Copyright © Elysia Whisler.
Published by MIRA Books.

*****

Review:

I really enjoyed Whisler’s Rescue You but I gotta start with a little gripe. With Rhett being former military and the blurb comment about the dog rescue being threatened, I expected there to be a little more action in the story. It’s an excellent emotional journey piece about people learning to let go of the past and healing so they can have a future. But the adventure really only comes into play towards the end and Rhett isn’t that much involved. If that’s what you are looking for, I’m afraid that it might leave you a little disappointed … although all the feels will definitely give you a great read.

Constance is struggling to find her footing after taking care of her dad as he faced a terminal illness and losing her fiance. She used to be a person in charge but lately she can barely make it out of the house. A chance encounter at a local gym puts her on the path to finding who she can be. And maybe a new chance at love.

Rhett is still struggling both physically and mentally from his last mission. Having a quirky woman who is obviously out of place drop into his gym has him working to push her out of her comfort zone, to help her find the strength hidden inside. And maybe a way to handle some of his own pain.

While Constance and Rhett play the main roles here, Constance’s sister Sunny and the men in her life also need a little help in figuring out what their own futures hold. All around there’s a lot of growth, support, understanding, and love that wraps you up and holds on until the very last page. It left me wanting me, hoping some of the others at Rhett’s gym will get a chance to find HEAs of their own.

*****

Author Info:

Elysia Whisler was raised in Texas, Italy, Alaska, Mississippi, Nebraska, Hawai’i and Virginia, in true military fashion. Her nomadic life has made storytelling a compulsion from a young age. 

She doubles as a mother, a massage therapist and a CrossFit trainer and is dedicated to portraying strong women, both in life and in her works. She lives in Virginia with her family, including her large brood of cat and dog rescues, who vastly outnumber the humans.

Author Website: https://www.elysiawhisler.com/

TWITTER: @ElysiaWhisler

Facebook: @ElysiaWhisler

Insta: @ElysiaWhisler

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/19812585.Elysia_Whisler

*****

Book Review – The Gritty Truth

Tags

Melissa Foster, The Gritty Truth, The Whiskeys series

With over 75% 5 Star reviews on Goodreads, I’m not really sure what I can tell you except that you really need to read this book.

*****

A fun, sexy, and emotionally riveting new standalone romance by New York Times bestselling author Melissa Foster.

THE GRITTY TRUTH is the perfect love story for those who enjoy fiercely loyal and insanely sexy alpha heroes, smart, sassy heroines, strong family bonds, bikers, babies, and more!

Recovering drug addict Quincy Gritt has fought his demons. He’s confessed to his crimes and conquered his addictions. He’s finally ready to go after sweet, sexy Roni, the gorgeous brunette who won a date with him in a charity auction five months ago and has been putting him off, and driving him wild, ever since

Dancer Veronica “Roni” Wescott worked hard to escape the seedy area where she was raised and followed her dreams to Julliard, only to have them shattered in the blink of an eye. She fought hard and regained her footing, but then the rug was pulled out from under her again when the grandmother who raised her passed away, leaving Roni feeling adrift in a world she knows very little about outside of dance. And then there’s Charlie Hunnam–lookalike Quincy Gritt—the man whose late-night texts pulled her through her grief and have been setting her heart aflutter for months.

Quincy pulls out all the stops, determined to prove that their friendship is only the beginning of what’s destined to be so much more. Romantic nights lead to smoldering passion and a deep connection too strong to be denied. But when Quincy’s past comes back to haunt him, can he and Roni accept their new gritty truth, or will Quincy spiral back into the darkness and lose the future he fought so hard to have?

The Whiskeys are perfect beach reads with depth of story, strong family ties, and a wealth of emotions. Small town love stories with happily ever afters guaranteed.

**CONTENT WARNING: Due to mature content, recommended for readers aged 18+**

Available to buy from…
Amazon.com   Amazon.co.uk   Barnes and Noble   KOBO   Apple   GPlay   Paperback

Also coming to audio!

*****

I have volunteered to share my review and all the opinions are 100% my own.

Review:

Those who have read the series already know that Quincy Gritt has lived a pretty messed up life but has worked hard to get clean & make a healthy, satisfying life for himself, one that he can be proud of. He’s managed to stay clean and surround himself with a group of friends and family that will be there whatever may come, and after meeting Roni he knows that he’s just missing that last connection.

While Roni never dealt with an addiction, her life so far hasn’t been the easiest either. She grew up in a rough neighborhood but with the love of her grandmother and a talent for dance, she found a way to get out. Then a terrible accident changed everything. Back home and teaching dance classes, she’s working to find what her future might bring and Quincy is there to tempt her with possibilities. But is she willing to take him on knowing his background?

These two together are just the best. Quincy has such an appealing openness to his thoughts and feelings because of his recovery. It’s refreshing and helps to draw in Roni, whose history has left her missing a lot of the social opportunities that most of us take for granted. Years spent concentrating almost exclusively on dancing means she missed out on parties, dating, and teenage rights of passage. But Quincy is just the person to open up those possibilities and show Roni what she can have with the right partner.

Sweetness, honesty, and support are front and center in Foster’s newest and she delivers them all in spades.

*****

For more hot Whiskey love, check out Melissa’s other Whiskey novels.
TRU BLUE
TRULY MADLY WHISKEY
DRIVING WHISKEY WILD
WICKED WHISKEY LOVE
MAD ABOUT MOON
TAMING MY WHISKEY
THE GRITTY TRUTH
IN FOR A PENNY (A WHISKEY NOVELLA) releasing 9th December!
And don’t miss RIVER OF LOVE, the first story in which the Whiskeys were introduced!

“Melissa Foster is synonymous with sexy, swoony, heartfelt romance!”– New York Times Bestseller Lauren Blakely

“You can always rely on Melissa Foster to deliver a story that’s fresh, emotional and entertaining. Make sure you have all night, because once you start you won’t want to stop reading. Every book’s a winner!”– NYT Bestselling Author Brenda Novak

“Melissa Foster writes worlds that draw you in, with strong heroes and brave heroines surrounded by a community that makes you want to crawl right on through the page and live there.”– New York Times bestselling author Julia Kent

In TRU BLUE…

There’s nothing Truman Gritt won’t do to protect his family–Including spending years in jail for a crime he didn’t commit. When he’s finally released, the life he knew is turned upside down by his mother’s overdose, and Truman steps in to raise the children she’s left behind. Truman’s hard, he’s secretive, and he’s trying to save a brother who’s even more broken than he is. He’s never needed help in his life, and when beautiful Gemma Wright tries to step in, he’s less than accepting. But Gemma has a way of slithering into people’s lives and eventually she pierces through his ironclad heart. When Truman’s dark past collides with his future, his loyalties will be tested, and he’ll be faced with his toughest decision yet.

**CONTENT WARNING: Due to mature content, recommended for readers aged 18+**

Available to buy from…
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In TRULY, MADLY, WHISKEY…

Eight months is a long damn time to have the hots for a woman who keeps a guy at arm’s length. But Crystal Moon is no ordinary woman. She’s a sinfully sexy, sass-mouthed badass, and the subject of Bear Whiskey’s midnight fantasies. She’s also one of his closest friends.

Just when Crystal thinks she has her life under control, scorching-hot, possessive, aggressive, and fiercely loyal Bear pushes all her sexual buttons, relentless in his pursuit to make her his.

The more Bear pushes, the hotter their passion burns, unearthing memories for Crystal that are best kept buried. But there’s no stopping the collision of her past and present, catapulting the two lovers down an emotionally charged road that has them questioning all they thought they knew about themselves.

**CONTENT WARNING: Due to mature content, recommended for readers aged 18+**

Available to buy from…
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In DRIVING WHISKEY WILD…

Special Forces veteran and Dark Knights Motorcycle Club member Bullet Whiskey lives to protect his family, their bar, and the residents of his small hometown. He’s rough, unapologetic, and haunted by a secret, painful past. He’s also a master at keeping people away, and when his sister hires gorgeous and sweet Finlay Wilson to help expand their biker bar, he knows just how to get rid of her.

After losing her boyfriend and her father, Finlay moves back to her hometown to be closer to the little family she has left. She needs her temporary job at Whiskey Bro’s to get her catering business off the ground, and she’s determined not to let the gruff, arrogant mountain of a man Bullet Whiskey scare her off.

Finlay is everything Bullet has never wanted. She’s afraid of his dog, afraid of motorcycles, and sweet enough to give him cavities, but as she weaves her way into the hearts of everyone around him, he’s powerless to resist her charms. Passion ignites, but trust doesn’t come easily, and when their pasts collide, Bullet finds out the true meaning of protecting those he loves.

**CONTENT WARNING: Due to mature content, recommended for readers aged 18+**

Available to buy from…
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In WICKED WHISKEY LOVE…

After escaping abusive parents and, later, an abusive relationship, Sarah Beckley has spent a lifetime watching snakes shed their skin. With two small children to care for and another on the way, she’s finally found a home in Peaceful Harbor with the brother she hasn’t seen in more than a decade. She’s still searching for her sister, but life is good. If only she could stop thinking about the sinfully sexy doctor/biker who has taken to her children like a loving uncle–and to her like a hungry man.

Trust doesn’t come easily for Sarah, but Bones Whiskey is patient and protective, amazing with her children, and he looks at her like she is the only woman he could ever want–and more. With two little ones underfoot, Sarah expects him to move on quickly, yet with every tender kiss and each trying moment with the children, Bones surprises her. But will the fiercely loyal biker stick around when Sarah’s worst secret is revealed, or will he shed his skin, too?

**CONTENT WARNING: Due to mature content, recommended for readers aged 18+**

Available to buy from…
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In MAD ABOUT MOON…

Can true love strike twice in one lifetime?

Josie Beckley refuses to believe there is a limit on happiness. A decade after she escaped her abusive parents and lost touch with her siblings, the death of her husband leaves her and her son homeless. But Josie has never been one to wallow in sadness, and when she takes a chance on reconnecting with her siblings, a sinfully handsome bright light from her past shows up and offers to help her find a way out of the darkness.

Most people wouldn’t see Jed Moon as someone to look up to. He’s been in and out of jail and has lived a less-than-stellar lifestyle. But years ago one woman saw through his bullshit, and he’s never forgotten her. Now she’s back in his life, and as a prospect for the Dark Knights motorcycle club, Jed promises to keep an eye on the sassy, sexy single mother who has never stopped lighting his fantasies on fire.

Jed and Josie’s combustible connection is stronger than ever. Having Josie and her son in his life brings out all of Jed’s protective instincts-and visions of a future he never imagined having. But when a shocking revelation knocks the insatiable lovers to their knees, it forces them to make choices that could change their lives forever.

**CONTENT WARNING: Due to mature content, recommended for readers aged 18+**

Available to buy from…
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In TAMING MY WHISKEY…

Being the princess of the Dark Knights motorcycle club doesn’t come with a white knight or a fairy-tale castle, and that’s okay, because Dixie Whiskey has never needed a man to slay her dragons or make her whole. Even so, after watching each of her brothers fall in love, she’d sure like a shot at her own happily ever after. But with the Dark Knights watching over her and the only man she’s ever wanted out of reach, she’s not holding her breath.

As the launch of Silver-Stone Cycles’ biggest line approaches, Jace Stone is left needing a favor from the one woman who holds the power to take him to his knees. He knows when it comes to sinfully gorgeous and sharp-tongued Dixie Whiskey, he must stay on his toes and keep his walls firmly in place. But Jace needs her for his business—and Jace Stone always gets what he wants.

When the tall, gruff, and darkly handsome biker presents an opportunity that any other woman might see as the chance of a lifetime, Dixie turns him down flat. But Jace is determined, and he pulls out all the stops—sending Dixie’s overprotective brothers up in arms. Rebellious Dixie takes a stand—going after the freedom, and the man, she’s always wanted. One scorching kiss leads to an undeniable connection, but Jace isn’t looking to be tied down, and Dixie refuses to play second fiddle. Can two untameable hearts find forever love in each other’s arms?

**CONTENT WARNING: Due to mature content, recommended for readers aged 18+**

Available to buy from…
Amazon.com   Amazon.co.uk   Barnes and Noble   KOBO   Apple   GPlay   Paperback

Releasing 9th December!
IN FOR A PENNY

Friendships and family abound during a week of love, laughter, and happily ever afters.

Catch up with your favorite characters and enjoy Bones and Sarah’s wedding while falling in love with the newest Whiskey-world couple, Penny Wilson and Scott Beckley in this Whiskey series novella.

When everything you want is right in front of you, but it’s still out of reach…

Penny Wilson has a successful business, more friends than a girl could ask for, and a boyfriend she’s madly and passionately in love with. Scott Beckley is honest, loyal, hands down the best lover on the planet, and absolutely gaga over his nieces and nephews. Scott’s a keeper…as long as Penny doesn’t ever want to hear those three magical words that would take their relationship to the next level. Scott escaped abusive parents at seventeen and was forced to find his way alone in the world. Even though it’s been more than a decade and he’s reunited with his estranged sisters and built a good life in Peaceful Harbor, Maryland, he’s still tortured by his past. Penny knows he loves her with everything he has, but for a girl who wants a family and a guy who is afraid of having one, love might not be enough.

**CONTENT WARNING: Due to mature content, recommended for readers aged 18+**

Available to buy from…
Amazon.com   Amazon.co.uk   Barnes and Noble   KOBO   Apple   GPlay   Paperback

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Author Info:
Melissa Foster is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling and award-winning author. She writes sexy and heartwarming contemporary romance and women’s fiction with emotionally compelling characters that stay with you long after you turn the last page. Melissa’s emotional journeys are lovingly erotic and always family oriented–perfect beach reads for contemporary romance and new adult romance lovers who enjoy reading about loyal, wealthy heroes and smart, sassy heroines with complex relatable issues.

Melissa also writes sweet romance under the pen name Addison Cole.

Melissa enjoys chatting with readers and book clubs. Send her an email invitation to your next event!

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