The Friendship List

Already a worldwide success in mass market and trade paperback formats, Susan Mallery’s newest hardcover is an emotional, witty, and heartfelt story about two best friends who are determined to help one another shake things up and live life to the fullest...only to discover that possibilities are everywhere--especially in the most unexpected of places.

Ellen and Unity have been best friends basically since birth, but they couldn’t be more different. Unity married her childhood sweetheart just after high school and became an Army wife, moving from base to base…until her husband's shocking death in the line of duty leaves her a widow. Grief-stricken, it’s time for Unity to come back home to Ellen—the only person she can trust to help her rebuild her life. But Ellen has troubles of her own. Boys never seemed to notice Ellen…until one got her pregnant in high school and disappeared. Her son is now 17 and she’s wondering what to do with herself now that he’s heading off to college and he's literally her entire world.

But now that Ellen and Unity are reunited, they’re done with their stale lives. It’s time to shake things up and start living again, knowing that they'll always have one another to lean on. So they create a list of challenges they have to accomplish--everything from getting a tattoo to skydiving to staying out all night. And whoever completes the most challenges is the winner. But with new adventures and love just around the corner, there’s no such thing as losing…

This book was easy to devour over a couple of days. The lives of these two friends quickly draws you in to root for them to find themselves as they navigate a new path in life. When they make a list to help each other take these steps forward hilarious and heartwarming things happen.  

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

SUSAN MALLERY is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of novels about the relationships that define women's lives—family, friendship and romance. Library Journal says, “Mallery is the master of blending emotionally believable characters in realistic situations," and readers seem to agree—forty million copies of her books have been sold worldwide. Her warm, humorous stories make the world a happier place to live.

Susan grew up in California and now lives in Seattle with her husband. She's passionate about animal welfare, especially that of the two Ragdoll cats and adorable poodle who think of her as Mom.

SOCIAL LINKS:
Twitter: @susanmallery
Facebook: @susanmallery
Instagram: @susanmallery
Author website: https://www.susanmallery.com/

Thank you to HQN Books/NetGalley for this review copy

The Christmas Wishing Tree + Giveaway

Sometimes life’s most magical journeys bring you back to where it all began…From USA Today bestselling author Emily March comes The Christmas Wishing Tree, an enchanting account of the magic and miracle of Christmas.

A man who loves adventure and the open sea, Devin Murphy returns for a short Christmas trip to his small hometown of Eternity Springs. Immersed in the joy and magic of the holiday season all around him, he doesn’t hesitate to play along when a young boy phones Santa to ask for a very special wish. Devin never guesses that a wrong number has the potential to make everything in his life so right.

Jenna Stockton adopted Reilly when he needed a mother and she intends to keep him safe. A small town across the country called Eternity Springs seems like a good place to hide from their past without any complications —until sexy Santa himself discovers her secrets. When Devin proposes a daring plan to face down the danger together and defeat it once and for all, she is tempted. Maybe Devin really is capable of making wishes come true? Perhaps in a Christmas wish they’ll both find the miracle they’ve been looking for all along…

A delightful Christmas novel in the New York Times bestselling Eternity Springs series.

Ten year old Reilly's calls Santa to ask for a daddy.  Devin answers the call on his borrowed phone and plays along. Reilly's mom Jean is a busy doctor with no idea these calls are happening.  When Reilly and Jean visit Eternity Springs they discover the magic of this enchanting town. A wonderful small town story of finding new beginnings where they are least expected.  Great choice for seasonal reading. 

Emily March is the New York Times, Publishers Weekly, and USA Today bestselling author of over thirty novels, including the critically acclaimed Eternity Springs series. Publishers Weekly calls March a "master of delightful banter," and her heartwarming, emotionally charged stories have been named to Best of the Year lists by Publishers Weekly, Library Journal, and Romance Writers of America. A graduate of Texas A&M University, Emily is an avid fan of Aggie sports and her recipe for jalapeño relish has made her a tailgating legend.

Emily's Website
Facebook

Thanks to the publisher (St. Martin's Press) one finished mass market copy of THE CHRISTMAS WISHING TREE is available to one (US only) commenter. A random winner will be drawn October 5th. Do you like to read seasonal stories?

A Nantucket Wedding (audio)

A few years after losing her beloved husband, Alison is doing something she never thought she would do again: getting married. While placing the finishing touches on her summer nuptials, Alison is anxious to introduce her fiancé, David, to her grown daughters: Felicity, a worried married mother of two, and Jane, also married but focused on her career. The sisters have a somewhat distant relationship and Alison hopes that the wedding and the weeks leading up to the ceremony will give the siblings a chance to reconnect, as well as meet and get to know David’s grown children.

As the summer progresses, it is anything but smooth sailing. Felicity stumbles upon a terrible secret that could shatter her carefully cultivated world. Jane finds herself under the spell of her soon-to-be stepbrother, Ethan, who is as charming as he is mysterious. And even Alison is surprised (and slightly alarmed) by her new blended family. Revelations, intrigue, resentments—as the Big Day approaches, will the promise of bliss be a bust?

.

Joyce Bean does a great job narrating each character's voice. The author gives a variety of characters to either really like or dislike. The narrator got the emotion of blending a family of adult children that kept me listening to this book. The setting of a beach house on Nantucket was a character itself.  A great choice for a summer,/vacation read.  A perfect listen for anytime!

Always Red Spotlight + Giveaway

The highly anticipated and epic conclusion to the Chasing Red duology

"Red," Caleb whispered. "Do you know how I felt when you left me?"

I looked into his eyes. The emotion I saw in them, the intensity, and the tenderness filled up my throat.

"I felt ruined. Because, Red, every time you break me apart, you put me back together. And I always come out better than before."

"So," he cupped my face, stroking my cheek with his thumb. "Ruin me."

Always Red picked up right where Chasing Red left off with Red/Veronica realizing she made a huge mistake and doing what it takes to make it right with plenty of drama some of which bordered on obsessive/possessive.  Even though the conclusion was what I expected it was a bit of a train wreck getting there - some of which was a bit over the top.

Excerpt

Chasing Red Duology:

Chasing Red (Book 1)

Always Red (Book 2)

Sourcebooks is generously giving away a print copy of the first book Chasing Red to one US reader.  Please enter to win by commenting and one random winner will be chosen on November 24th.  

The book will be shipped from the publisher shortly after the winner is chosen.

Fuel For Fire + Giveaway

New York Times and USA Today bestseller Julie Ann Walker delivers red-hot romantic suspense in Fuel for Fire!

Dagan Zoelner has always had his eye on spunky CIA agent Chelsea Duvall. When a mission throws them together, this could be his only chance to win her heart for good.

Dagan Zoelner has made three huge mistakes
The first two left blood on his hands.
The third left him wondering…what if?
What if he had told the woman of his dreams how he felt before his world fell apart?

Spitfire CIA agent Chelsea Duvall has always had a thing for bossy, brooding Dagan. It’s just as well that he’s never given her a second look, since she carries a combustible secret about his past that threatens to torch their lives...

Chelsea is a CIA analyst working undercover as a personal assistant to a man believed to be the notorious "Spider". Her mission is to get into his office and get a USB drive onto his computer and send it back to headquarters. Her teammates Emily, Christian, Ace and Dagan are on pins and needles as her back-up. They are all trained for many situations, she is not, and Dagan is consistently vocal on his thoughts that they are making a big mistake in letting her go under. She gets the job done and is trying to leave when she is detained as the security breach has been detected. Her teammates come to her rescue but the trouble really heats up as they have to get away and then get out of the country. Dagan and Chelsea have been dancing around their attraction for each other which lends to Dagan's brooding about her being involved in this mission. Their being on the run for their lives brings the truth of their attraction to the surface, but Chelsea has a big bad secret that could threaten this new relationship. Fast, paced full of action and suspense. Book 10 in the Black Knights Inc. delivers an edge of your seat, emotional story.

.


Rafflecopter – Julie Ann Walker Gift Basket: a Rafflecopter giveaway

·         All prizes will be sent directly to the winner from the giveaway sponsor.

Pre-order Fuel for Fire or Hot Pursuit and receive another Black Knights Inc. novel of your choice! 

Someone Else's Summer

Anna's always idolized her older sister, Storm. So when Storm dies in a tragic car accident on the night of her high school graduation, Anna is completely lost and her family is torn apart. That is, until she finds Storm's summer bucket list and decides to honor her sister by having the best summer ever—which includes taking an epic road trip to the coast from her sleepy Iowa town. Setting out to do everything on Storm's list along with her sisters best friend Cameron—the boy next door—who knew that Storm's dream summer would eventually lead to Anna's own self-discovery?

Anna finds herself struggling to return to her life after the death of her sister. Her friends are trying to help, but just don't understand and she finds herself pulling away from them. Her neighbor and sister's best friend Cameron is experiencing the same. When she finds a list that her sister wrote entitled "The Perfect Summer" she is sure this is a gift and is determined to fulfill the list for her sister. Cameron agrees to do the list with her. Thankfully she shares her desire with her father, and he agrees to figure out a way to help. What she accomplishes is more than she expected. This is a great coming of age summer read that has likeable characters. Their feelings and struggles are relateable, understandable and it's hard not to hope their success will help.

Rachel has some fun stuff up on SomeoneElsesSummer.com, including a summer bucket list generator.


Thanks to Valerie and Running Press An Imprint of Perseus Books | A Division of Hachette Book Group for this review copy

Any Time, Any Place (audio)

At fifteen-years-old, Raven Bella Stratton’s father was killed in a horrible car crash. The bigger shock was the discovery of a woman with him—Diana Pierce—and their two fully packed suitcases with airline tickets to Paris. Devastated by her father’s betrayal, Raven went to live with her aunt, never truly overcoming the traumatic event. When she discovers that the mysterious woman had a family with a husband and three boys, Raven vows to leave the memory of her father behind.

Until Dalton Pierce visits one night and suddenly her past challenges her future...

Leaving his life in California behind to run Pierce Construction with his two older brothers, Dalton Pierce has enjoyed returning home and studying his passion of woodworking. But when he visits the local bar with his brothers one evening, he’s immediately drawn to the smart-mouthed, badass, sexy bartender who sets his body on fire.

Unfortunately, she doesn’t seem as intrigued by him, and his multiple advances are met with rejection. When he offers to restore the bar back to its original glory, he begins to work with her on a daily basis, and falls harder. His plan of seduction slowly weaves a web around them both, until they are caught up in the spell. But Dalton doesn’t know the secret that can either destroy them both...or finally mend two broken hearts

This second installment in the Billionaire Brother's series is Dalton's story. The brothers had to run their family business together for a year in order to keep it.  They did just that and have been successful. Raven owns and operates My Place a local bar that will soon be featured in a local magazine.  Dalton begins work on restoring the bar and figuring out why Raven wants nothing to do with him. Raven knows who Dalton is and holds it against him. Dalton, who doesn't know, can't figure out what is holding her back when they have great chemistry.  What happened to their parents years ago has left them both broken.  Can they leave behind the fallout that their parent's choices caused or will it keep them apart?  Madeline Maby and Sebastian York did a great job narrating each of their characters with humor and emotion. Tristan's story is next.

*Thanks to Simon and Schuster Audio for this review copy*

Everything You Want Me To Be (audio)

High school senior Hattie Hoffman has spent her whole life playing many parts: the good student, the good daughter, the good citizen. When she’s found brutally stabbed to death on the opening night of her high school play, the tragedy rips through the fabric of her small town community. Local sheriff Del Goodman, a family friend of the Hoffmans, vows to find her killer, but trying to solve her murder yields more questions than answers. It seems that Hattie’s acting talents ran far beyond the stage. Told from three points of view—Del, Hattie, and the new English teacher whose marriage is crumbling—Everything You Want Me to Be weaves the story of Hattie’s last school year and the events that drew her ever closer to her death.

Evocative and razor-sharp, Everything You Want Me to Be challenges you to test the lines between innocence and culpability, identity and deception. Does love lead to self-discovery—or destruction?

Hattie's last year unfolds as the investigation into her death begins. She has plans to leave her small town for New York and leave behind who she's been to become someone new. She has learned to be what those around her wanted to to be or expected her to be and she's tired of it. That is the least of the secrets she's been keeping. The new English teacher gives her day some brightness. He seems to understand her and encourages her free spirit. She is a bright spot in his miserable day as well. Recently moved to town with his wife to take care of her mother, he left behind a job and town he loved and wants nothing more than to leave.  How far will he go to escape his miserable? Sheriff Del Goodman has to sift through what little evidence is left at the scene. When it leads to someone close to Hattie, the pieces slowly begin to fit with a twist at the end. Alternating POVs tell the story seamlessly. Hattie's angst and passion were well narrated by Caitlin Thorburn.  I felt Peter's hopelessness as well as his hope, but thought John Moraitis' voice sounded "older" than the character I pictured. Del's dilemma of what to put first his job or his friendship was expertly narrated by Jeff Harding. Over all a good listen.

*Thanks to Lauren at Simon and Schuster for this audio copy*

Here's To Us (audio)

Laurel Thorpe, Belinda Rowe, and Scarlett Oliver share only two things; a love for the man they all married, Deacon Thorpe--a celebrity chef with an insatiable appetite for life--and a passionate dislike of one another. All three are remarkable, spirited women, but they couldn't be more different. Laurel: Deacon's high school sweetheart and an effortlessly beautiful social worker; Belinda: a high-maintenance Hollywood diva; and Scarlett: a sexy southern belle floating by on her family money and her fabulous looks. They've established a delicate understanding over the years--they avoid each other at all costs.

But their fragile detente threatens to come crashing down after Deacon's tragic death on his favorite place on earth: a ramshackle Nantucket summer cottage. Deacon's final wish was for his makeshift family to assemble on his beloved Nantucket to say good-bye. Begrudgingly, Laurel, Belinda, and Scarlett gather on the island as once again, as in each of their marriages, they're left to pick up Deacon's mess. Now they're trapped in the crowded cottage where they all made their own memories--a house that they now share in more ways than one--along with the children they raised with Deacon, and his best friend. Laurel, Belinda, and Scarlett each had an unbreakable bond with Deacon--and they all have secrets to hide. 

Before the weekend is over, there are enough accusations, lies, tears, and drama to turn even the best of friends--let alone three women who married the same man--into adversaries. As his unlikely family says good-bye to the man who brought them together--for better or worse--will they be able to put aside their differences long enough to raise a glass in Deacon's honor?

Flawed humans with messy lives make this book a good listen. There isn't much to like about the characters, but I couldn't stop listening to see what happens when the three wives, children and good friend of this one man gather together at his beloved Nantucket house to scatter his ashes. It just screams a bad idea with everything that has happened in their lives  - betrayals, jealousies, and terrible decisions. As these characters deal with the grief secrets are revealed as we learn how they all came to be at this house. .

Erin Bennett does a great job narrating each of these characters that I always knew whose POV (Lauren, Belinda, Angie, Buck or Hayes) was being presented and it gave a complete picture of Deacon who has died before the book begins.

This book as a few recipes included as Deacon is a world renowned TV chef. It distracted from the story that the recipe was read in full.  If I had been reading this book, I would have skimmed over the recipe maybe coming back to it after I was finished. Do you read over the entire recipe? Do you prefer that they are included at the end of the book?

*Thanks to Hachette Audio for this review copy*

Always A Cowboy by Linda Lael Miller (#2)

Audio Cover

Drake Carson is the quintessential cowboy. In charge of the family ranch, he knows the realities of this life, its pleasures and heartbreaks. Lately, managing the wild stallions on his property is wearing him down. When an interfering so-called expert arrives and starts offering her opinion, Drake is wary, but he can't deny the longing - and the challenge - she stirs in him.

Luce Hale is researching how wild horses interact with ranch animals - and with ranchers. The Carson matriarch invites her to stay with the family, which guarantees frequent encounters with Drake, her ruggedly handsome and decidedly unwelcoming son. Luce and Drake are at odds from the very beginning, especially when it comes to the rogue stallion who's stealing the ranch mares. But when Drake believes Luce is in danger, that changes everything - for both of them.

This is book two in the series that stands alone well. Romance, wild horses, family, secondary characters all contribute to a great story in this small town. Drake and Luce's relationship doesn't over take the scenery and emotion of the story. 

Narrator Jack Garrett nailed Drake's sense of humor and love for his family's ranch. Luce's love for the outdoors and determination to be independent and finish her degree shines through as well. As always the author adds animals that become beloved characters. Looking forward to Mace's story in Forever A Hero.

Audio (7 CDs)
Product Number: C02847
Released: Aug 30, 2016
ISBN: #9781470384050
Narrator/s: Jack Garrett
Publisher: Recorded Books, Inc.
Listening Length: 8 hours and 58 minutes

Print Cover

The Carsons of Mustang Creek
Once A Rancher
Always A Cowboy
Forever A Hero

Thanks to Becky and Recorded Books for this review copy.

On Second Thought

Ainsley O'Leary is so ready to get married—she's even found the engagement ring her boyfriend has stashed away. What she doesn't anticipate is for Eric to blindside her with a tactless breakup he chronicles in a blog…which (of course) goes viral. Devastated and humiliated, Ainsley turns to her half sister, Kate, who's already struggling after the sudden loss of her new husband. 

Kate has always been so poised, so self-assured, but Nathan's death shatters everything she thought she knew—including her husband—and sometimes the people who step up aren't the ones you expect. With seven years and a murky blended-family dynamic between them, Ainsley and Kate have never been overly close, but their shared sorrow dovetails their faltering worlds into one. 

Despite the lifetime of history between them, the sisters must learn to put their differences aside and open their hearts to the inevitable imperfection of family—and the possibility of one day finding love again.

I loved this story of sisters, both dealing with devastation in their personal lives.  Kate did not hesitate to have Ainsley move in with her after getting dumped by her boyfriend Ainsley is sure that Eric will get whatever he is going through out of his system and come back to her.  As she waits she discovers who she really wants to be and more about her family than she ever expected.  Kate struggles with being a widow after such a short marriage, wondering how and when to move on being sensitive to her husband's family. As these two sisters walk through what has happened there are tears, laughter, surprises and reconciliation.  This thoroughly satisfying story was told in the alternating voices of Kate and Ainsley.  Another gem from a favorite author.

Thanks to HQN Harlequin via NetGalley for this ARC. The book will be published Jan. 31, 2017

The Bachelor Auction Release Day Blitz + Giveaway

Cinderella never had to deal with this crap.

Jane isn't entirely sure that Cinderella got such a raw deal. Sure, she had a rough start, but didn't she eventually land a prince and a happily-ever-after? Meanwhile, Jane is busy waiting on her demanding, entitled sisters, running her cleaning business, and . . . yep, not a prince in sight. Until a party and a broken shoe incident leave Jane wondering if princes---or at least, a certain deliciously hunky billionaire---maybe do exist.

Except Brock Wellington isn't anyone's dream guy. Hell, a prince would never agree to be auctioned off in marriage to the highest bidder. Or act like an arrogant jerk---even if it was just a façade. Now, as Brock is waiting for the auction chopping block, he figures it's karmic retribution that he's tempted by a sexy, sassy woman he can't have. But while they can't have a fairy-tale ending, maybe they can indulge in a little bit of fantasy . . .


 My thoughts:

There is a story behind Brock continuing to let his Grandfather manipulate him. Jane also has a reason for allowing her sisters to completely walk all over her. Those two backstories give quite a bit of heart to the story, while Brock and Jane's chemistry light up the pages. Their time at the ranch/farm is hilariously fun and the majority of the story.  I loved Brock's brothers and can't wait for their stories. Not sure if the sisters can be redeemed, but anything is possible. I will definitely read the next book in this series. 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR 
 Rachel Van Dyken is the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today Bestselling author of regency and contemporary romances. When she's not writing you can find her drinking coffee at Starbucks and plotting her next book while watching The Bachelor. She keeps her home in Idaho with her Husband, adorable son, and two snoring boxers! She loves to hear from readers!

Website
Facebook
Instagram
Twitter
Goodreads

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Series Page on Goodreads

Forever Website

Title: The Bachelor Auction
Author: Rachel Van Dyken
Series: The Bachelors of Arizona #1
On Sale: October 4, 2016
Publisher: Forever
Formats: eBook
Price: $4.99 USD (eBook)
Add to Goodreads

*Thanks to Forever Hachette for this review copy*

With Love From The Inside

Grace Bradshaw knows the exact minute she will die.

On death row for murdering her infant son, her last breath will be taken on February 15 at 12:01 a.m. Eleven years, five months, and twenty-seven days separate her from the last time she heard her precious daughter’s voice and the final moment she’d heard anyone call her Mom. Out of appeals, she can focus on only one thing—reconnecting with her daughter and making sure she knows the truth.

Secrets lurk behind Sophie Logan’s big house and even bigger bank account. Every day when she kisses her husband good-bye, she worries her fabricated life is about to come crumbling down. No one knows the unforgivable things her mother did to tear her family apart—not her husband, who is a prominent plastic surgeon, or her “synthetic” friends who live in her upscale neighborhood.

Grace’s looming execution date forces Sophie to revisit the traumatic events that haunted her childhood. When she returns to her hometown, she discovers new evidence about her baby brother William’s death seventeen years ago—proof that might set her mother free but shatter her marriage forever.

Sophie must quickly decide if her mother is the monster the prosecutor made her out to be or the loving mother she remembers—the one who painted her toenails glittery pink and plastered Post-it notes with inspiring quotes (“100 percent failure rate if you don’t try”) all over Sophie’s bathroom mirror—before their time runs out.

I love mother/daughter relationships - thankfully I have happy/healthy ones as a daughter and as a mother. The ones that are told in books-  ugly, heartbreaking, non-existent, competitive and even good intrigue me.  This one had a separation, unknown truths and un-acknowledgement, but was still there for both Grace and Sophie. This is their story more than a story about what Grace has been convicted of, although it does have a profound impact on the story. It was easy to care for these characters and I was very invested in the outcome. A stellar debut novel that would make for a great book club selection.

* Thank to Penguin Group via NetGalley for this review copy*

The Way I Used To Be (audio)

Eden was always good at being good. Starting high school didn’t change who she was. But the night her brother’s best friend rapes her, Eden’s world capsizes.

What was once simple, is now complex. What Eden once loved—who she once loved—she now hates. What she thought she knew to be true, is now lies. Nothing makes sense anymore, and she knows she’s supposed to tell someone what happened but she can’t. So she buries it instead. And she buries the way she used to be.

Eden is a normal freshman 14 year old girl until she is raped by her brother's best friend.  The book opens on the morning after, so you don't go through the trauma with Eden.  She chooses not to tell because she is afraid. She changes drastically while ignoring the pain, anger and fear (which others sorta recognize, but don't pursue with her).  Told in four sections of her high school years, Eden spirals downward until she is confronted with it happening to another girl.  The first and last section were the best and the book does end on a positive note. Eden's story unfortunately happens too often, but is one that needs to be told especially if it gives courage to those that need to speak up. This debut novel was narrated by Rebekkah Ross.

*Thanks to Simon and Schuster for this review copy*

Nobody But You by Jill Shalvis and Giveaway

When Jacob was injured in the war, it changed him for life. Now all he wants to do is come home to Cedar Ridge, settle in at his lakeside cabin and get some much-needed peace and quiet. But there's no peace to be had when he finds a spitfire of a woman camping out on his property. Half the time he's not sure whether he wants to spank her or kiss--or maybe both. He's in a dark place and a dark mood, and here's this wildly hot woman who is also funny and light and may be the balm be needs to soothe his aching soul.

Sophie Marren is pretty much penniless after leaving her abusive husband. She doesn't have the money to pay rent or the slip fees for docking the boat where she's been sleeping. She was getting along just perfectly until the good-looking, brooding, I'm-too-sexy-for-myself guy moves into the lake cabin that the slip belongs to. Sure he's hot as the noon sun with those dark lens and even darker 'tude, but god forbid she tie herself to another man who's always telling her what to do. But the more she gets to know Jacob, the more she sees how willing he is to battle for her wounded heart...a battle she might just let him win.

Jacob was the missing brother from the previous book.  He has returned to Cedar Ridge after his last tour and losing a close friend.  He knows he has a lot to answer for - leaving town after high school graduation and not contacting anyone from his family.  Sophie has experienced a messy divorce and is living on a hateful boat because it is the only thing her ex loves.  She has to sneak around to spend the night moored illegally.  When she moors at the dock of the cabin rented by Jacob, he becomes intrigued by her and wants to know her story.  She is off men but is just as intrigued by him.  They decide to have a no strings relationship until he returns to duty. Of course, things don't go as planned. Jacob's family was so glad to have him back, but he felt like he had to prove that he was worthy of their love and forgiveness. It was an emotional journey for Jacob. One that was emotional and heartwarming. Sophie was easy to like and right away you felt their chemistry. She was a hoot and they are perfect for each other. Loved returning to Cedar Ridge and am looking forward to Kit's story.

About Jill Shalvis
New York Times bestselling author Jill Shalvis lives in a small town in the Sierras full of quirky characters. Any resemblance to the quirky characters in her books is, um, mostly coincidental. Look for Jill's bestselling, award-winning books wherever romances are sold and visit her website for a complete book list and daily blog detailing her city-girl-living-in-the-mountains adventures.

Q & A with Jill:

Do you have a favorite quote/scene from the book?

He was a smart enough guy to get that she was the one for him.  He was also smart enough to know that he was going to have to work his ass off for it. 

If you weren’t a novelist what career would you like to try?

Well I wanted to be a singer but as it turns out, I can’t carry a tune…

What’s next for you?

My next book, SWEET LITTLE LIES, hits in June, a new series that takes place in San Francisco.

a Rafflecopter giveaway


Jill’s Social Media:
Website: JillShalvis.com
FB: Facebook.com/jillshalvis
GR: https://www.goodreads.com/JillShalvis
T: @jillshalvis
IG: @jillshalvis
P: https://www.pinterest.com/jillshalvis/

Buy Links
Amazon: amzn.to/1nJOatw
B&N: bit.ly/250OcyR
IndieBound: bit.ly/22gObop
iTunes: apple.co/1TJDOYH
GooglePlay: bit.ly/1RKiLPz
Kobo: bit.ly/1QTy644









Thanks to Grand Central Publishing/NetGalley for this review copy

The Choice (audio)

Travis Parker has everything a man could want: a good job, loyal friends, even a waterfront home in small-town North Carolina. In full pursuit of the good life—boating, swimming, and regular barbecues with his good-natured buddies—he holds the vague conviction that a serious relationship with a woman would only cramp his style. That is, until Gabby Holland moves in next door. Despite his attempts to be neighborly, the appealing redhead seems to have a chip on her shoulder about him…and the presence of her longtime boyfriend doesn’t help. Despite himself, Travis can’t stop trying to ingratiate himself with his new neighbor, and his persistent efforts lead them both to the doorstep of a journey that neither could have foreseen. Spanning the eventful years of young love, marriage and family, The Choice ultimately confronts us with the most heart wrenching question of all: how far would you go to keep the hope of love alive?

I gave this author another try because the book was narrated by one of my favorite narrators - Holter Graham. Unfortunately even a favorite could not change the way I feel about this author's books. After surrendering my emotions to his characters and then getting them stomped upon, I've been unable to allow it to happen again. I did like Travis, but did not like Abby at all for a variety of reasons. Therefore Travis' decision did not tug at my heartstrings. I will wait for the movie to come to TV.

Thank you to Mitch at Hachette Audio for this review copy.

Kiss Me Hello + Giveaway

MacKenzie Knightley is the best criminal trial attorney in Damson County, but he has no defense against petite, peppery Sidonie Lindstrom, a foster mom who’s moved into the farmhouse where Mack and his brothers grew up.

Sid is grieving the loss of her brother, worried she’s about to lose her foster son, and in no mood for romantic nonsense when Mac drives up the lane. And yet, he’s good with her horses, good with her foster son, and just the sort of solid, trustworthy, guy she might fall for—until she learns that he’s not at all what he appears to be.

This is the last book in Grace's new contemporary series and it was great!. I really enjoyed Mac as the older brother that has taken care of his family. He has not had a date in years (we learn why), and with his brothers both happy in their relationships, he is wondering if it will ever happen for him. Sid is a tough, feisty lady determined to love her foster son to the best of her ability. She desperately want to adopt him, but he is reluctant which is a heartbreaking part of the story.  When things threaten Sid and Luis's life together the whole family comes together to fight for them.  I will miss these characters.

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Grace Burrowes' bestsellers include The Heir, The Soldier, Lady Maggie's Secret Scandal, Lady Sophie's Christmas Wish and Lady Eve's Indiscretion. The Heir was a Publishers Weekly Best Book of 2010, The Soldier was a PW Best Spring Romance of 2011, Lady Sophie's Christmas Wish won Best Historical Romance of the Year in 2011 from RT Reviewers' Choice Awards, Lady Louisa's Christmas Knight was a Library Journal Best Book of 2012, and The Bridegroom Wore Plaid was a PW Best Book of 2012. Her Regency romances have received extensive praise, including starred reviews from Publishers Weekly and Booklist. Grace is branching out into short stories and Scotland-set Victorian romance with Sourcebooks. She is a practicing family law attorney and lives in rural Maryland.

Grace's Website, Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads

Read an excerpt here

Rafflecopter Giveaway
Embed Code
a Rafflecopter giveaway


This complimentary review copy was received thankfully from Sourcebooks/Netgalley and in no way influenced my review of this book. These are my personal thoughts and reactions to the reading of the book.

The First Kiss + Giveaway

Classical pianist Vera Waltham is recovering from a bad break up by taking a hiatus with her daughter in the Damson Valley countryside. She’s content with her music, and has no interest in complicating her life with further attempts at romance.

Attorney James Knightley is a numbers guy who reads contractual fine print for lunch, and wants nothing to do with damsels, in distress or otherwise. Nobody is more surprised than James when he falls for Vera Waltham, and the only contract on James’s mind when it comes to Vera is holy matrimony.

Second book in the Sweetest Kisses series features the youngest Knightley brother who came across as  a bit of a player in the first novel.  I enjoyed getting to know the man behind the personality and discover why he needed to cover his hurts and sadness.  Vera's were easily discernible and understandable, but did make it hard for me to warm up to her.  I loved Vera's daughter. The girls in these stories are wonderful! Vera has someone who is making her life miserable, she is sure it is her ex-husband. The resolution is touching.  I look forward to Mac's story.

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Grace Burrowes' bestsellers include The Heir, The Soldier, Lady Maggie's Secret Scandal, Lady Sophie's Christmas Wish and Lady Eve's Indiscretion. Her Regency romances have received extensive praise, including starred reviews from Publishers Weekly and Booklist. Grace is branching out into short stories and Scotland-set Victorian romance with Sourcebooks. She is a practicing family law attorney and lives in rural Maryland.

Social Media Links
Website:
Facebook:
Twitter
Goodreads

Goodreads Link

Rafflecopter
Embed Code a Rafflecopter giveaway
Excerpt

“May I ask you a favor?”

“Of course.”

“Play the piano for me?”

Nowhere near play with me, but this was Vera. “You want to do a lesson now?”

“This isn’t a lesson. I’m asking you to play for me, James. Get out your old favorites, the friends you turn to when you’re heartsore and soul weary, the consolation pieces that aren’t for everybody else. You play them for yourself.”

She curled up across the room in a pap-san chair and pulled an old quilt around her.

Could he do this?

If Vera had asked James to go to bed with her, he would have known he was competent to bring her pleasure, to satisfy her most intimate wishes and secret, sexual desires. But this? To play? For her?

She wanted music that had called to him, spoken to his soul and become a part of him. Pieces of his heart.

James set his hands on the keyboard, took a slow, deep breath, and began to play. He played from memory, his fingers finding the notes easily in the dim light. He could play this waltz with his eyes closed, and he had, many times. He hadn’t heard it since the night his mother had died, but she’d loved it too, and his hands would never forget how to craft the phrases and melodies.

“Oh, James, the Chopin.” Vera signed her pleasure at his choice, and James’s heart sighed with her. He could do this for her, soothe her with music the way she’d made music to soothe and delight so many others. The waltz shifted from a work he’d set aside years ago – a grieving piece – to a gift from him to Vera.

Only to Vera.

When the last rippling rise of notes died away, Vera remained curled up, eyes closed, mouth slightly parted.

James had played her to sleep. He took a moment to memorize the sight of her, safe and at peace under the quilt his mother had made for her hope chest.

Then he thought back over other pieces he’d set aside, the ones that were too sweet or too sorrowful or both, and he began to play again.



This complimentary review copy was received thankfully from Sourcebooks via NetGalley and in no way influenced my review of this book. These are my personal thoughts and reactions to the reading of the book.

Winter Street

Kelley Quinn is the owner of Nantucket's Winter Street Inn and the proud father of four, all of them grown and living in varying states of disarray. Patrick, the eldest, is a hedge fund manager with a guilty conscience. Kevin, a bartender, is secretly sleeping with a French housekeeper named Isabelle. Ava, a school teacher, is finally dating the perfect guy but can't get him to commit. And Bart, the youngest and only child of Kelley's second marriage to Mitzi, has recently shocked everyone by joining the Marines.

As Christmas approaches, Kelley is looking forward to getting the family together for some quality time at the inn. But when he walks in on Mitzi kissing Santa Claus (or the guy who's playing Santa at the inn's annual party), utter chaos descends. With the three older children each reeling in their own dramas and Bart unreachable in Afghanistan, it might be up to Kelley's ex-wife, nightly news anchor Margaret Quinn, to save Christmas at the Winter Street Inn.

Before the mulled cider is gone, the delightfully dysfunctional Quinn family will survive a love triangle, an unplanned pregnancy, a federal crime, a small house fire, many shots of whiskey, and endless rounds of Christmas caroling, in this heart-warming novel about coming home for the holidays.

I am a fan of Elin's books, books that take place on Nantucket and dysfunctional family themed books. This one was a bit of a disappointment. It was hard to like the characters,  I thought they were a bit too self-absorbed, but did chuckle a couple of times. The ending is very abrupt and leads me to believe that the author is not finished with these characters. Erin Bennett did a great job narrating! 

This complimentary review copy was received thankfully from Mitch and Hachette Audio and in no way influenced my review of this book. These are my personal thoughts and reactions to the reading of the book.