The Honeymoon Cottage by Lori Foster

 

At 31, Yardley Belanger is really good at her job as a wedding planner—organizing other people’s happy ever afters. Yardley doesn’t care that she has zero love life...all the eligible guys in Cemetery are men she grew up with, and none of them interest her anyway. She’s put her heart and soul into her business and has built a reputation specializing in country weddings—complete with a cottage by the lake for honeymooners—attracting happy couples and their families from all around.

Travis Long had to take on too much responsibility too soon. When their parents died, he took care of his younger sister, Sheena. For years, it was just them against the world. But now his baby sister is getting married, and Travis is struggling to accept this change. He thinks Todd isn’t good enough for Sheena, and without meaning to, Travis is noticeably judgmental of his sister’s intended.

Travis and Sheena are in town to plan her country wedding. Travis wanted something classier for his sister, but then he meets Yardley. He notices she puts her heart and soul into everything, and that she really listens to what the bride wants. Yardley has this no-nonsense way of interpreting what his sister says and doesn’t say.

How the hell is he falling in love during wedding prep for his little sister? Easy. He never expected to meet someone like Yardley Belanger.

A great start to a small, quirky town series set in Cemetery, Indiana. First story features Yardley the local wedding planner and Travis whose sister seeks the services of Yardley's business. Yardley is also trying to change some of the town's ordinances and has to befriend seemingly difficult Betty, all the while dealing with her mother and aunt who are just as difficult. She does it will grace and humor with the help of her friend Mimi and others. Travis and Yardley try to keep their agreement to take their relationship slow until after his sister Sheena's wedding, but they are finding it difficult. A fun, heartwarming read

*Thanks to HQN Books/Netgalley for this review copy*

Lori Foster is a New York Times, USA Today, and Publishers Weekly bestselling author with over 10 million books sold. She received the Career Achievement Award from RT Book Reviews and her books have been chosen as editors picks by Amazon multiple times. Foster is actively involved in charity work, and all of the author proceeds from her anthologies have gone to various organizations, such as the Animal Adoption Foundation, the Conductive Learning Center, and One Way Farm. She lives in Ohio with her high school sweetheart.

Beach House Summer by Sarah Morgan

 

When Joanna Whitman's ex-husband, one of California's most beloved celebrity chefs, dies in a car accident, she doesn't know what to feel. Their dysfunctional marriage held more secrets than she cares to remember, but when she discovers a young woman was with him in the crash--who's now in hospital, on her own, and pregnant --Joanna sees red. How dare he ruin yet another woman's life? More than anyone, Joanna knows the brutal spotlight this girl is going to find herself in...unless she can find a way for them both to disappear?

Ashley can't believe it when Joanna shows up in her hospital room and offers to spirit them both away for the summer to her secluded beach house on the Californian coast. Joanna should be hating her, not helping her. But orphaned and pregnant, Ashley can't turn Joanna down. Even though she knows that if Joanna ever discovers the real truth of why Ashley was in her ex's car, their tentative bond would never hold.

Together, they escape to the beach house, nestled high above the sleepy Californian town where Joanna grew up, and left without a backward glance. Joanna's only goal for the summer is privacy, but her return creates waves in the community, not least for the best friend she left behind. Both Joanna and Ashley are hiding secrets, but as they fall under the spell of their summer home - and draw on each other's courage - these unlikely friends realize that to seize the futures they want, they must step out of the shadows and into the sunshine.

When Joanna's ex-husband dies in a car accident she is surprised to be in the limelight once again. She wants to be done with it all. When the young woman who was in the car is identified she knows her instantly and knows that Ashley will need her help despite her wanting to hide away until the scandal dies down. The press wants to know who Ashley is and who is the father of her baby. Joanna invites her to her childhood home that is secluded despite leaving heartbroken over 20 years ago. Ashley is grateful and they soon begin to help each other move forward. A great story of friends, family, forgiveness and second chances.

Sarah Morgan is a USA Today and Sunday Times bestselling author of contemporary romance and women's fiction. She has sold more than 21 million copies of her books and her trademark humour and warmth have gained her fans across the globe. Sarah lives with her family near London, England, where the rain frequently keeps her trapped in her office. Visit her at www.sarahmorgan.com











*Thanks to HQN/NetGalley for this review copy*

The Wrong Victim

 

A bomb explodes on a sunset charter cruise out of Friday Harbor at the height of tourist season and kills everyone on board. Now this fishing and boating community is in shock and asking who would commit such a heinous crime—the largest act of mass murder in the history of the San Juan Islands.

Was the explosion an act of domestic terrorism, or was one of the dead the primary target? That is the first question Special Agent Matt Costa, Detective Kara Quinn, and the rest of the FBI team need to answer, but they have few clues and no witnesses.

Accused of putting profits before people after leaking fuel endangered an environmentally sensitive preserve, the West End Charter company may itself have been the target. As Matt and his team get closer to answers, they find one of their own caught in the crosshairs of a determined killer.

Title

Book three in the Costa and Quinn series has the team arriving in the San Juan Islands after a boat bombing. As they investigate the intended victim(s) has them puzzled. Is it the charter company whose safety records have an environment group protesting or someone on board? Kate's presence on the team has raised some questions and her tactics rub one member the wrong way. Matt is caught in the middle and balances both members while using their investigative methods to solve this crime. When another bombing takes place the tension ramps up with fears of another one to follow. An entertaining, fast-paced read with great character development that has me looking forward to the next installment in this series.

ALLISON BRENNAN is the New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author of over thirty novels. She has been nominated for Best Paperback Original Thriller by International Thriller Writers and the Daphne du Maurier Award. A former consultant in the California State Legislature, Allison lives in Arizona with her husband, five kids and assorted pets.

* Thanks to HTP Books for this review copy*

Summer at the Cape

Summer at the Cape is the fourth original hardcover from New York Times, USA TODAY, and Publisher's Weekly bestselling author RaeAnne Thayne. With the emotional pull of Debbie Macomber, Barbara Delinsky, and Susan Wiggs, RaeAnne tells the story of the Porter sisters, Cami and Violet, who come together to mourn the death of Violet's twin, Lily. Over the course of the summer, the sisters must make peace with each other and also individually with their free-spirited, outspoken, activist mother who left their father two decades earlier.

As the older sister to identical twins Violet and Lily, Cami Porter had always been the odd sister out. The breach became even stronger when her parents split up—while the twins stayed in Cape Sanctuary with their free-spirited activist mother, Rosemary, fourteen-year-old Cami moved to L.A. with her by-the-book attorney father, Ted. Nearly twenty years later, when Cami gets the tragic news that Lily has drowned saving a child, Cami returns to her childhood home—her mother and Violet need her.

Lily had spent her entire life looking for something to be passionate about, and in leasing a property from neighbor Franklin Rafferty and setting up Coastal Pines Glamping, she was about to see her dream realized. Following her death, the sadness and grief Rosemary, Violet and Cami feel is compounded by Jon Rafferty, son of the neighbor whose land Lily had leased. Jon, who hadn't seen his father in years, is stunned to learn that his father is in the early stages of Alzheimer's Disease, and he worries that the Porter women took advantage of him. But Jon can see that the Porter family is in mourning, and agrees they can keep the land through the summer, and then they'll need to shut the glamping site down.

Then there's Violet—the child Lily saved, Ariana Mendoza, is the daughter of Violet's former high school sweetheart, Alex Mendoza. She could never forgive him way back when for cheating on her, but she is so grateful that his adorable little girl is okay. Alex still has feelings for Violet, but he is overcome with grief and gratitude at the same time for the loss of Lily, who died saving his child

Sisters Cami and Violet separated by their parent's divorce work their way back to each other after the death of their sister Lily (twin to Violet). While helping their mother bring Lily's glamping dream to fruition they all confront past hurts and find healing and forgiveness. A great book to take on vacation.

New York Times bestselling author RaeAnne Thayne finds inspiration in the beautiful northern Utah mountains where she lives with her family. Her stories have been described as "poignant and sweet" with "beautiful honest storytelling that goes straight to the heart." She loves to hear from readers and can be reached through her website at www.raeannethayne.com.

*Thanks to HQN Books/NetGalley for this review copy*

The Summer Getaway by Susan Mallery

Robyn Caldwell’s family is driving her crazy. There’s Harlow, her daughter, who’s engaged to a man she’s only known a short time and is rapidly turning into bridezilla. And her son, Austin, who would rather work with his dad’s family charter boating business than go to college. Her friend, Mindy, who’s playing with fire by contemplating an affair with her tennis instructor. And let’s not forget her ex-husband whose bad behavior has just crossed the line yet again.

Robin needs some time to catch her breath and figure out what her next step should be. So when her beloved aunt Lillian asks her to come to Santa Barbara for an overdue visit, Robyn jumps at the chance. Her aunt Lillian is working on settling her affairs and a distant relative is staying with her that stands to inherit the house. Trouble is the last thing Robyn needs, but she refuses to let her aunt be taken advantage of.

While staying in her aunt’s beautiful, quirky mansion and spending time in the Santa Barbara sunshine with the woman who’s like a mother to her, Robyn will see herself—and the people she loves most—with a bit more clarity. And it will push her to take chances she hadn’t dreamed of before.

But life has a funny way of following you wherever you go. What began as an escape soon becomes an unforgettable adventure…and Robyn is ready to dive in, feet first.

Title

Single mom Robyn has some decisions to make to fulfill her divorce settlement. She has been putting these decision off far too long. The man she is dating turns out to be a jerk, her daughter is turning into bridezilla, her son's plans don't include college, her best friend is contemplating a decision that will ruin her life and to top it off her ex-husband is dating her daughter's future sister-in-law. Robyn has had enough and needs an escape.  When her Aunt Lillian invites her to come out and get a start on cataloging the antiques, Robyn jumps at the chance.  Maybe this time away will help her with the decisions.  Things are going well and then everyone follows her!!  A family drama that is filled with lots of emotions, new romance and reconciliations. 

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.

*Thanks to HQN Books/NetGalley for this review copy*

A Little Christmas Spirit by Shelia Roberts

The best Christmas gifts—family, friendship, and second chances—are all waiting to be unwrapped in this sparkling new novel from USA Today bestselling author Sheila Roberts.

Single mom Lexie Bell hopes to make this first Christmas in their new home special for her six-year-old son, Brock. Festive lights and homemade fudge, check. Friendly neighbors? Uh, no. The reclusive widower next door is more grinchy than nice. But maybe he just needs a reminder of what matters most. At least sharing some holiday cheer with him will distract her from her own lack of romance…

Stanley Mann lost his Christmas spirit when he lost his wife and he sees no point in looking for it. Until she shows up in his dreams and informs him it’s time to ditch his Scroogey attitude. Stanley digs in his heels but she’s determined to haunt him until he wakes up and rediscovers the joys of the season. He can start by being a little more neighborly to the single mom next door. In spite of his protests he’s soon making snowmen and decorating Christmas trees. How will it all end?

Merrily, of course. A certain Christmas ghost is going to make sure of that!

Lexi and her son Brock are settling into their neighborhood despite Stanley the grumpy old guy next door.  Stanley has been grieving his wife by avoiding everyone.  He gets help to begin to live again in an unexpected way. Events happen where Lexi and her son need Stanley's help.  He beings to open up to new things. When his help goes a bit too far and causes Lexi some pain, will their tentative friendship end?  A new family in the neighborhood could also be a new beginning for Lexi, will she take a chance?  A fun, heartwarming holiday story.

Sheila Roberts lives on a lake in Washington State, where most of her novels are set. Her books have been published in several languages. On Strike for Christmas, was made into a movie for the Lifetime Movie Network and her novel, The Nine Lives of Christmas, was made into a movie for Hallmark.

Author Website

Goodreads

 Excerpt

*Thanks to Harlequin/NetGalley for this review copy*

The Christmas Wedding Guest by Susan Mallery

 

The last thing Reggie Sommerville wants is to come back home for Christmas. It's only been a year and a half since her boyfriend, Jake, proposed and then broke up with her, all in one weekend, and the prospect of facing the entire town is humiliating. But when her parents reveal that they're renewing their vows in the lavish wedding they always wanted and her mother asks her to be a bridesmaid, Reggie knows she can't say no. No matter how much she wants to. She expected the town would be gossiping about her relationship with Jake, but she never expected to run into Toby, her first love that broke her heart all those years ago, living in town and raising his son. She always thought things between them were long over…but this Christmas is full of surprises.

Dena Sommerville has only ever wanted one thing: to have a child. But motherhood has been alluding her because she never met the right man…until she took the bull by the horns and decided to have a baby as a single mom. She knew it would be difficult and the morning sickness alone is knocking her down for the count, but she’s determined to do this on her own. So when a handsome musician checks into the inn where she works, Dena is surprised when a friendship develops. He has his own issues to work through—that much is clear. But she can’t deny there’s something between them.

A great small town holiday story. The Sommerville family has a lot going on this holiday season. Reggie reluctantly returned to town to help out with her parent's vow renewal ceremony. Last year she was engaged and dumped in a spectacular way over a weekend. Dena is juggling early pregnancy, teaching and running her B & B.  Both are not looking for romance and are surprised when things take that turn. Great characters with plenty of humor and a fantastic dog! Looking forward to visiting the town of Wishing Tree again.

Susan Mallery is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of novels about the relationships that define women's lives—family, friendship, romance. Library Journal says, “Mallery is the master of blending emotionally believable characters in realistic situations," and readers seem to agree—40 million copies of her books have 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:

Author Website

Goodreads

Thanks to Harlequin/NetGalley for this review copy

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

A Royal Kiss and Tell by Julia London

Every young man in London’s ton is vying for Lady Caroline Hawke’s hand—except one. Handsome roué Prince Leopold of Alucia can’t quite remember Caroline’s name, and the insult is not to be tolerated. So Caroline does what any clever, resourceful lady of means would do to make sure Leo never again forgets: sees that scandalous morsels about his reputation are printed in a ladies’ gossip gazette…all while secretly setting her cap for the rakish royal.

Someone has been painting Leo as a blackguard, but who? Socially, it is ruining him. More important, it jeopardizes his investigation into a contemptible scheme that reaches the highest levels of British government. Leo needs Lady Caroline’s help to regain access to society. But this charming prince is about to discover that enlisting the deceptively sweet and sexy Lady Caroline might just cost him his heart, his soul and both their reputations…

Lady Caroline was difficult to like at the beginning.  She was annoyingly outspoken, which I usually like in a character.  Her need to be the center of attention was also a turn off.  But this author completely turned my feelings around for this character.  Prince Leo has been told his time in England is over and he needs to return home to resume his duties and marry for the good of his country. A plot is revealed to Leo and he does his best to figure out who and what is at the center before he leaves.  Their romance is slow and the banter is humorous. I enjoyed Justin Hill's narration of this 2nd book in the series. 

Julia London is a NYT, USA Today and Publisher's Weekly bestselling author of historical and contemporary romance. She is a six-time finalist for the RITA Award of excellence in romantic fiction, and the recipient of RT Bookclub's Best Historical Novel.

Julia's website



*Thanks to Harper Audio/Harper Collins/Netgalley for these review copies*

Holiday Reads

CHRISTMAS FROM THE HEART by Sheila Roberts

USA TODAY bestselling author Sheila Roberts takes readers to the charming, snowbound town of Pine River in this irresistible holiday romance.
Sometimes you need to look beyond the big picture to see what really matters
Olivia Berg’s charity, Christmas from the Heart, has helped generations of families in need in Pine River, Washington, but this year might be the end of the road. Hightower Enterprises, one of their biggest donors since way back when Olivia’s grandmother ran the charity, has been taken over by Ebenezer Scrooge the Second, aka CFO Guy Hightower, and he’s declared there will be no more money coming to Christmas from the Heart.

Guy is simply being practical. Hightower Enterprises needs to tighten its belt, and when you don’t have money to spare, you don’t have money to share. You’d think even the pushy Olivia Berg could understand that.

With charitable donations dwindling, Olivia’s Christmas budget depends on Hightower’s contribution. She’s focused her whole life on helping this small town, even putting her love life on hold to support her mission.

When Guy’s Maserati breaks down at the edge of the Cascade foothills, he’s relieved to be rescued by a pretty young woman who drives him to the nearby town of Pine River. Until he realizes his rescuer is none other than Olivia Berg. What’s a Scrooge to do? Plug his nose and eat fruitcake and hope she doesn’t learn his true identity before he can get out of town. What could go wrong?

Olivia runs a long time non-profit that helps those in need at Christmas time. When she finds out that a regular donor is not contributing, she endeavors to find out why.  Guy denies the request because his company is experiencing some difficulties. On his way to visit with his mom his car breaks down in a small town.  He has to spend a day there waiting for a part and the only place he is offered to stay is at, you guessed it, Olivia's house.  When he realizes who has come to his aid he doesn't tell her is real name.   They begin to hit it off. Guy knows she will toss him aside when his identity is revealed.  Will she forgive him in the spirit of Christmas or make a big mistake and settle.  A heart warming holiday story.

Shelia Roberts

AN ALASKAN CHRISTMAS BY Jennifer Snow

In Alaska, it’s always a white Christmas—but the sparks flying between two reunited friends could turn it red-hot…

If there’s one gift Erika Sheraton does not want for Christmas, it’s a vacation. Ordered to take time off, the workaholic surgeon reluctantly trades in her scrubs for a ski suit and heads to Wild River, Alaska. Her friend Cassie owns a tour company that offers adventures to fit every visitor. But nothing compares to the adrenaline rush Erika feels on being reunited with Cassie’s brother, Reed Reynolds.

Gone is the buttoned-up girl Reed remembers. His sister’s best friend has blossomed into a strong, skilled, confident woman. She’s exactly what his search-and-rescue team needs—and everything he didn’t know he craved. The gulf between his life in Wild River and her big-city career is wide. But it’s no match for a desire powerful enough to melt two stubborn hearts…

Dr. Erika is on a forced vacation.  She has been so wrapped up in her career that the only place she has to go is back to her hometown.  She reconnects with her teenage friend Cassie.  Their reunion is a bit forced, but she begins to relax. Cassie's older brother Reed is still in town and still handsome as ever. Reed is on the local SAR team and is intrigued by this grown up Erika.  He can tell she is a wound a bit tight and sets out to loosen her up. Their time together morphs into something more and when the time for her to go back arrives decisions have to be made.
A great start to a new series.

Jennifer Snow






A WEDDING IN DECEMBER by Sarah Morgan

In the snowy perfection of Aspen, the White family gathers for youngest daughter Rosie’s whirlwind Christmas wedding. First to arrive are the bride’s parents, Maggie and Nick. Their daughter’s marriage is a milestone they are determined to celebrate wholeheartedly, but they are hiding a huge secret of their own: they are on the brink of divorce. After living apart for the last six months, the last thing they need is to be trapped together in an irresistibly romantic winter wonderland.

Rosie’s older sister, Katie, is also dreading the wedding. Worried that impulsive, sweet-hearted Rosie is making a mistake, Katie is determined to save her sister from herself! If only the irritatingly good-looking best man, Jordan, would stop interfering with her plans…

Bride-to-be Rosie loves her fiancé but is having serious second thoughts. Except everyone has arrived—how can she tell them she’s not sure? As the big day gets closer, and emotions run even higher, this is one White family Christmas none of them will ever forget!

Rosie is getting married a Christmas after a whirlwind courtship with personal trainer Dan. She is in the states for graduate school. Her sister Kate, an ER doctor in London, is sure this is another one of Rosie's impulsive decisions and she is needed to put a stop to it. Maggie, Rosies' mother is harboring her own secret but is determined to pretend all is well for her daughter's wedding. Full of hilarity, fun and plenty of misunderstandings that get worked out in the end. A wonderful seasonal read!

Sarah Morgan

COMING HOME FOR CHRISTMAS BY RaeAnne Thayne

Elizabeth Hamilton has been lost. Trapped in a tangle of postpartum depression and grief after the death of her beloved parents, she couldn’t quite see the way back to her husband and their two beautiful kids…until a car accident stole away her memories and changed her life. And when she finally remembered the sound of little Cassie’s laugh, the baby powder smell of Bridger and the feel of her husband’s hand in hers, Elizabeth worried that they’d moved on without her. That she’d missed too much. That perhaps she wasn’t the right mother for her kids or wife for Luke, no matter how much she loved them.

But now, seven years later, Luke finds her in a nearby town and brings Elizabeth back home to the family she loves, just in time for Christmas. And being reunited with Luke and her children is better than anything Elizabeth could have imagined. As they all trim the tree and bake cookies, making new holiday memories, Elizabeth and Luke are drawn ever closer. Can the hurt of the past seven years be healed over the course of one Christmas season and bring the Hamiltons the gift of a new beginning?

Luke's wife has been missing for seven years.  The new DA has decided to charge him with her death.  Luke has know for awhile where his wife has been, and now has to bring her back to clear his name.  He doesn't know what happened to Elizabeth or why she has been living under a different name, and he doesn't care.  He wants his named cleared and divorce finalized.  Elizabeth agrees to return to help hoping she can begin to repair her relationship with her kids.  What happened to Elizabeth was awful, but it was a bit over the top, and hard to understand once she got help why she didn't reach out.  Luke's anger was understandable, but he did make an effort to understand once he learned what happened.  Just okay for me.

RaeAnne Thayne












Thanks to HQN Books for these review copies

Meant To Be Yours by Susan Mallery

In Happily Inc, love means never having to say “I do”… Wedding coordinator Renee Grothen isn’t meant for marriage. Those who can, do. Those who can’t, plan. But she never could have planned on gorgeous, talented thriller writer Jasper Dembenski proposing—a fling, that is. Fun without a future. And the attraction between them is too strong for Renee to resist. Now she can have her no-wedding cake…and eat it, too. After years in the military, Jasper is convinced he’s too damaged for relationships. So a flirtation—and more—with fiery, determined Renee is way too good to pass up…until his flame becomes his muse. Renee is an expert at averting every crisis. But is she finally ready to leap into the one thing that can never be controlled: love?

Rene and Jasper live in a wedding destination town, Happily, Inc. Rene is a successful wedding planner that works at Wedding in A Box. Jasper is retired veteran is a successful writer. They both want nothing to do with relationships and agree to a "friends with benefits" no strings attached arrangement. Both have their reasons that are significant to the story. When Jasper decides that his character will begin a new relationship, he finds that he can't write women and asks Rene for help. He takes it a step further and that could be the end of their arrangement.  Always a pleasure to revisit this town and its characters.

SUSAN MALLERY is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of novels about the relationships that define women's lives—family, friendship, romance. Library Journal says, “Mallery is the master of blending emotionally believable characters in realistic situations," and readers seem to agree—40 million copies of her books have 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.




*Thanks to HQN Books/Netgalley for this review copy*

Jackson by Emily March

Sometimes it takes a new beginning

Caroline Carruthers thinks she buried her dreams along with the love of her life…until a stranger named Celeste dares her to chase a dream all on her own. Moving to Redemption, Texas, is chapter one in Caroline’s new life story. Opening a bookstore is the next. Finding love is the last thing on her mind as she settles into this new place called home. But when she meets a handsome, soulful man who’s also starting over, all bets are off. to reach a happily-ever-after

Jackson McBride came to Redemption looking only to find himself, not someone to love. Ever since his marriage ended, he’s been bitter. Sure, he used to believe in love—he even has the old song lyrics to prove it—but the Jackson of today is all business. That is, until a beautiful young widow who’s moved to town inspires a change of heart. Could it be that the myth of Redemption’s healing magic is true…and Jackson and Caroline can find a second chance at a happy ending after all?

Author Bio:
Emily March is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the heartwarming Eternity Springs series. 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.

Caroline and Jackson are looking to start over.  They both start a new business. Caroline a bookstore called The Next Chapter and Jackson a music/dance place in Redemption.  An easy to read story of second chances. 

Chapter One Excerpt

Nashville, Tennessee

Bang. The judge’s gavel fell and officially crushed Jackson McBride’s heart. He closed his eyes. Bleak despair washed over him. Up until this very moment, he hadn’t believed she’d take it this far.

He’d thought she’d come to her senses. He’d thought she would recognize that this proposal was not only nonsense, but truly insane. He’d believed that somewhere deep inside of her, she still had a spark of humanity. That she wouldn’t do this to him. To them. He’d been wrong.

Damn her. Damn her and the yes-men she surrounded herself with. Damn them all to hell and back.

The enormity of what had just happened washed over him. Oh, God, how will

I survive this?

On the heels of his anguish came the rage. It erupted hot as lava, and it fired his blood and blurred his vision with a red haze of fury. He’d never hit a woman in his life. Never come close, despite plenty of provocation from her direction. In that moment had she been within reach, he might have lived up her accusations.

It scared the crap out of him. That’s what she’s brought me to.

Abruptly, he shoved back his chair so hard that it teetered, almost falling over. He strode toward the courtroom exit. “Jackson? Jackson, wait!” his attorney called, hurrying after him.

Jackson waved her off and didn’t stop. There was nothing left to be said. Nothing left to be done. No place left to go.

No little girl waiting at home to hug and cuddle and kiss good night.

The tap on the toes of Jackson’s boots clacked against the tile floor of the courthouse as his long-legged strides ate up the hallway. He shunned the elevator for the stairs and descended three flights at a rapid pace, then headed for the building’s exit. In a foolish bit of positive thinking, he’d driven his SUV to the courthouse this morning. Now the sight of the safety booster seat in the back seat made him want to kick a rock into next week.

He didn’t want to go home to a quiet, empty house. He shouldn’t go to a bar. Alcohol on top of his current mood could be a dangerous combination. Somebody probably would get hurt.

He got into the car and started the engine. For a long moment he sat unmoving, staring blindly through the windshield, his hands squeezing the steering wheel so hard that it should have cracked. When his phone rang, he ignored it.

A couple of minutes later, it rang a second time. Again, he ignored it. When it happened a third time, he finally glanced at the display to see who was calling. His cousin. Okay, maybe he would answer it.

“Hello, Boone.”

“How did the hearing go?”

Jackson couldn’t speak past the lump in his throat, so he said nothing.

Following a moment’s silence, Boone got the message. He muttered a curse, and then said, “I’m sorry, man. So damn sorry.”

“Well, it is what it is.”

“You can take another run at it.”

“Yeah.” In three years. Three years. Might as well be three decades. He cleared his throat and changed the subject. “So, how are things in Eternity Springs?”

“Good. They’re good. My friend Celeste Blessing visited my office a few minutes ago and spoke of her granite-headed cousin. Naturally, I thought of you.”

“Naturally,” Jackson dryly replied. But he felt a little less alone.

“Do you have plans this weekend? I could use your help with something.”

Pretty convenient timing. Knowing Boone, he had a spy in the courtroom. But Jackson wasn’t in the position to ignore the bone he’d been thrown. “I’m free. Whatcha got?”

“I’d like you to meet me at home.”

Jackson straightened in surprise. “You’re going back to the ranch?”

“No. Not there. I’m never going back there. However, I am talking about Texas. The Hill Country in particular. A little town west of Austin called Redemption.”

“Redemption, Texas?” Jackson repeated. For some weird reason, his heart gave a little skip. “Why there?”

“It’s a long story. Too long for a phone call. I’ll give you the entire skinny when I see you. When can you get there?”

After today’s debacle, Jackson had absolutely no reason to remain in Nashville. “When do you want me there?”

“I’ll be in later today. I’m in Austin now. I’ve been helping a friend with a project. I have a flight back to Colorado Sunday evening. The earlier you can get here the better, but I’ll make anything work.”

Jackson figured the distance and the drive time. “I’ll meet you tomorrow afternoon. Where?”

“Great. I’ll text you the info when we hang up. Bring camping gear.”

When a sound behind him had Jackson glancing up into the rearview mirror and the booster seat caught his notice, he made an instant decision. “Can’t. I’ll be on my bike.”

“You’re gonna ride your motorcycle all the way from Nashville?”

“Yes, I think I am.”

“Okay. I’ll bring stuff for both of us.” Boone hesitated a moment and added, “Hang in there,

Jackson. It’ll get better.”

No, I don’t think it will. “I’ll see you tomorrow.”

Jackson ended the call and finally put his SUV in gear and backed out of the parking place. With the distraction of the call behind him, fury returned, and by the time he reached home, he felt like a volcano about to explode.

He threw a handful of things into his tail bag, filled his wallet with cash from his stash, and ten minutes after his arrival, he fired up his bike and took his broken heart and headed out of Nashville. He left behind his home, his work, and his one reason for living, his six-year-old daughter, Haley.

Charley Davidson Blog Tour - Summoned to Thirteenth Grave

Charley Davidson, Grim Reaper extraordinaire, is pissed. She’s been kicked off the earthly plane for eternity—which is exactly the amount of time it takes to make a person stark, raving mad. But someone’s looking out for her, and she’s allowed to return after a mere hundred years in exile. Is it too much to hope for that not much has changed? Apparently it is. Bummer.

She’s missed her daughter. She’s missed Reyes. She’s missed Cookie and Garrett and Uncle Bob. Now that she’s back on earth, it’s time to put to rest burning questions that need answers. What happened to her mother? How did she really die? Who killed her? And are cupcakes or coffee the best medicine for a broken heart? It all comes to a head in an epic showdown between good and evil in this final smart and hilarious novel.

Charley made a decision in the last novel that opened up a portal and allowed the Shades to arrive.  They are slowly taking over Albuquerque and if they don't figure out how to close it, all is lost. Charley has a few clues that she and Reyes have to quickly unravel. Meanwhile she also has to come up with a way to keep their daughter Beep safe until it is her time. Fast paced with signature snark makes this last novel in the series thoroughly enjoyable. Here's hoping that a spin-off series is in the making.  

Where It All Began:

First Grave On The Right

·         The concept for First Grave came about while Darynda was working as a sign language interpreter in her hometown. She stole many of the names from students at the schools where she worked, including Reyes, Garrett, and Amber. As far as Darynda knows, they have all forgiven her for her thievery. 

This debut novel introduces Charley Davidson, private investigator and grim reaper. She not only sees dead people, they help her solve cases before they cross over.  Charley knew from an early age that she had something different. She kept it quiet growing up because it freaked too many people out. She has been having some crazy dreams and is trying to figure them out. Who he is a major part of the story. Great secondary characters, lots of humor and snark make this a great beginning to this series. Loved it the second time around.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
New York Times and USA Today bestselling author DARYNDA JONES won a Golden Heart and a RITA for her manuscript First Grave on the Right. A born storyteller, she grew up spinning tales of dashing damsels and heroes in distress for any unfortunate soul who happened by, annoying man and beast alike. Darynda lives in the Land of Enchantment, also known as New Mexico, with her husband and two beautiful sons, the Mighty, Mighty Jones Boys.

DARYNDA’S SOCIAL LINKS:
Twitter
Facebook
Website



Enter for a chance to win the entire Charley Davidson series by Darynda Jones, an ARC of the epic finale, Summoned to Thirteenth Grave, plus fun swag!  HERE  This giveaway is open to US ONLY. Ends November 14th. 

 Your comment on this post also enters you to win an ARC of Summed to Thirteenth Grave.

The entire series:

Thank you to St. Martin's Press/NetGalley for these review copies.

Greek's Christmas Bride + Author's Write Space

‘Tis the season for a Sexy Holiday!

Coldly ruthless and deeply cynical, Apollo Metraxis has made a career of bachelorhood. But when the inheritance of his father’s estate is conditional on a marriage and a child, he is forced to do the unthinkable!

Unpolished Pixie Robinson is the world’s worst choice of a wife for Apollo. Yet her family’s mounting debts leave her defenseless and therefore uniquely suitable. But when the wedding night exposes Pixie’s untouched vulnerability, striking a chord in the dark reaches of his heart, Apollo is forced to think again.

And that’s before he discovers that she’s carrying not one but two Metraxis heirs!

LYNNE GRAHAM is a popular Northern Irish author of more than 60 romance novels, published by Mills & Boon since 1987. Graham met her husband when she was 14, but before marrying she completed a degree at Edinburgh University. Lynne and her husband have five children, one natural and four adopted, two from Sri Lanka and two from Guatemala.

Apollo and Pixie really don't like each other but love their friends. When Apollo comes up with a plan to keep his inheritance Pixie comes to mind.  Pixie has her reasons for going along with the plan.  Their relationship starts out as expected but doesn't go as either of them planned. Can they overcome their pasts to find a life together? An enjoyable, sweet Christmas story.

Lynne Graham's Writer's Space:
I do all my writing in my library – it’s perfect for me, because I’m a total bookworm! I find it really inspiring being surrounded by books that I love, along with my personal trinkets, the flower-lights over my mantelpiece, and the gorgeous garden view from my window. It truly feels like my own little world I can escape to!

THE GREEK’S CHRISTMAS BRIDE
by Lynne Graham

Harlequin Presents; November 22, 2016

$4.99 U.S.; 224 Pages
ISBN-978-0-373-134885

*Thanks to Tracy, Meryl Moss Media, Harlequin for this review copy*