Interview: Victoria James along with Holly & Quinn (A Risk Worth Taking Blog Tour)

I would like to welcome Holly Carrington and Quinn Manning from A Risk Worth Taking and the author Victoria James to What I’m Reading.

How are you guys doing today?

Victoria:  Great, thanks so much for having us, here Melody!  I’m so happy to visit with Holly and Quinn again.

Holly:  Me too!  And I’ve been meaning to thank Victoria for finally giving us the happily ever after of my dreams.

Quinn:  Right.  You didn’t have to put us through the ringer though, Vic.

Victoria: *Grins sheepishly*  Sorry about that.

Well, I’m super excited to have you guys are here today.

First off, Victoria what makes Holly and Quinn special?

Victoria: Well, Holly is my kind of gal-she’s stubborn, smart, and driven.  And really, with everything that happened to her, I needed to give her a man that was strong enough to help her.   And Quinn turned out to be even a bigger charmer and sweetheart than I had originally thought.

Now Holly and Quinn, I was wondering what was your first impression of each after 10 years?

Quinn:  Holly was more beautiful than when she left Red River all those years ago.  A hell of a lot more stubborn than I remember, but…

Holly: *Laughs*   Quinn was just as I remembered.  Maybe a little older, with a grey hair here and there…

Holly, so how is motherhood suiting you?

Holly:  I love it.  It’s more rewarding and fulfilling than I ever would have thought.  And each day I love, Ella more and more.  I feel so blessed.

I know that renovation can be a trial on any type of relationship, how did you guys not kill each through the process?

Quinn:  It wasn’t easy, lemme tell you.  There were moments-like that whole counter-top and basement flood that I thought I was going to lose my cool.  Luckily, I had a solution to that problem.  *Grins*

Holly:  *Shakes head, smiling*

Victoria I was wondering if there is any future plans for Jake and Evan finding the love of their lives?

Victoria:  Absolutely!  Jake is currently finding his road to happily-ever-after with Claire.  But let me tell you, this has been quite a ride, with a lot more bumps than even I had envisioned.  Their story will be released this summer.  Evan’s gone through some life-changing events as well-and his story will be out late this year.

Quinn:  Really?  What’s going on?

Victoria:  Sorry, can’t say!

Now the finally question. So, Holly, Quinn, and Victoria can you each share in your own words why readers should read A Risk Worth Taking?

Holly: Well, I must say, Quinn’s pretty fabulous in Victoria’s book.  So if you love a man that can be strong and tender you’ll want to read this.  Reading back, I have to admit, he’s a total hottie J

Quinn: That’s very sweet. *Kisses Holly* I thought Victoria did a great job highlighting everything Holly had been through, and showing how strong of a woman she is.  Holly is the ideal.

Victoria: Aren’t they sweet!?  Okay, well, I think A Risk Worth Taking is a story about finding the inner strength to go on, even after dealing with staggering loss.  Finding the courage to love again and to give love a second chance.

Thank you guys for coming talking to my readers. Is there anything else you guys would like to share?

Victoria:  If you love small town romance, with lots of heart and passion, I think you’ll like this series.  Red River is a town that’s filled with larger-than-life personalities and people you’d like to sit down and have a cup of coffee with.  Holly and Quinn are close to my heart-people I look up to and admire.

Thank you so much for having us here, Melody!  It was a fun interview J

Here's more information about Victoria, how to connect, and more about Holly & Quinn's adventure:

A bit about Victoria James:

Victoria James is a romance writer living near Toronto, Canada. Victoria is a mother to two young children, and one very disorderly feline. Victoria attended Queen's University in Kingston, Ontario and graduated with a degree in English Literature, where she met and then later married, her own hero. After Queen's, Victoria earned a degree in Interior Design. After the birth of her first child she began pursuing her life-long passion of writing. Her dream of being a published romance author was realized last February, 2012, when Entangled Publishing bought her manuscript. Victoria is living her dream-staying home with her children and conjuring up happy endings for her characters.

Connect with Victoria:

Website ~ Twitter ~ Facebook ~ Goodreads 

A bit about A Risk Worth Taking:

When tragedy strikes, high-powered designer Holly Carrington steps up to raise her orphaned niece. But to secure the baby's future she must return to her hometown and face the memories of all she has lost. Can small-town bachelor Quinn convince Holly to give up her big-city dreams and risk her heart, or will they set themselves up for heartbreak...again?

If you would like to get your own copy here are the links:

Amazon ~ Barnes & Noble ~ Kobo

Don't forget that Victoria is doing a blog tour giveaway. If you would like a chance to win a gift card to COACH or a chance to win a PDF of A Risk Worth Taking all you have to do is fill out the rafflecopter.

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eARC: Tempting Cameron by Karen Erickson

Around Christmas time, I took a little journey to Lone Pine. This is the place where we got to meet some of the McKenzie family. Well, we are back in Lone Pine to meet another McKenzie. This time we get to know Cameron in Tempting Cameron by Karen Erickson. So, let me share the story and my thoughts.

Cameron has no desire to be back in Lone Pine. However, I think his sister, Jane, would be piss if he didn't show up for her wedding. So, he's stuck in Lone Pine for the summer, because he doesn't really anywhere else to go. While at the wedding he notices Jane's best friend, Chloe Dawson. Let's just say, he's taken aback by how she has grown up.

Chloe has always had a thing for Cameron. However, he never saw her more than the annoying friend of his sister. Now she gets a chance to hang out with Cam for the summer with no strings attach. I don't know, but that never seems to work.

I love the Bliss line, because they usually come out really sweet stories that warm the heart. Tempting Cameron is no exception. I love Chloe and how everyone is trying to look out for her. She's described as the towns princess (not because she's mean, but sweet and innocent). Then you have Cameron. Ok, the guy has some insensitive moments and was a total jerk to Chloe. One of those moments would have been better if just kicked a puppy in front of a little kid, than what he did to Chloe. However, he did redeem himself, which is the most important when it comes to heroes.

Overall, I enjoyed this sweet read. Even though Karen Erickson is know for more steamer books, this is still a great story by her. I enjoyed how Cam realize mistake and tries to rectify his mistake. A great redeeming quality. I love Chloe, because she's just so down to earth and sweet. So, if you are looking for a story with sister best friend getting her dream man, you might enjoy Tempting Cameron. After all even with not-so-senstive guy can be very tempting.

Copy provided by publisher

Rating:
1/2


Purchase Links:
Amazon ~ Barnes & Noble ~ Kobo

My Lady Below Stairs by Mia Marlowe

Yes, another novella. Today's selection is My Lady Below Stairs by Mia Marlowe. First off if you are a fan of Shakespeare's comedies you might enjoy this quick read. However, if you are not of fan of Mr. Shakespeare you might want to steer clear. I personally prefer his comedies over the tragedy, so I found this story enjoyable.

The main characters you need to keep tract of during the story are:

Jane Tate: Half-sister of Lady Sybil; bastard child of Lord Somerville; scullery maid
Ian Michael MacGarrett: Head groom; loves Jane
Lady Sybil Somerville: Daughter of Lord Somerville; has no desire to marry Viscount Eddleton; loves the artist
Viscount Eddleton: Ick; Weasel
Giovanni Brunello: artist; loves Sybil

So, if you can keep tract of these characters, you should be fine. Yes, it is a bit far-fetch. However, if you have seen A Midsummer Night's Dream or Much Ado About Nothing then the story isn't so far-fetch. If you are looking for a Shakespeare-like comedy, you might want to checkout My Lady Below Stairs.

Rating:


Purchase Links:
Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo

Date by Mistake by Candace Havens with Shannon Leigh, Gwen Hayes, Jill Monroe, and Rosemary Clement-Monroe

Today's read takes us to Port Calypso in Date by Mistake an Indulgence anthology. We get to see four dates that started off really bad and surprisingly work out in the end. Some of them don't even realize they're on a date. We meet bloggers, lost loves reunited, and a disaster date. So, let's get started:

Mr. Virile and the Girl Next Door
Gwen Hayes

I have to say I enjoyed this story and it was a lot of fun. Dane Martin (aka Mr. Virile) gives advice through his blog to guys who need a little help with hooking up with chicks. Then you have Holly Winters (aka Girl Next Door) who also has a blog, but tries to give practical advice to gals looking for Mr. Right. I love how there agents decided to play matchmakers with their two clients. Eek, there must be some ethics violation or something. Love the chemistry and heat between Dane and Holly, but each of them is willing to stand their ground.

Plus, the story line kind of reminds me of the movie HITCH, but only in some aspects. However, I do enjoy the dueling bloggers and who has better method for relationship. Plus, it was fun to see how they were unsuspecting to be on a blind date.

Favorite Quotes: 
"You're an attractive guy. And you emit enough sexual pheromones to power a small city. I'm sure I'd even enjoy sleeping with you."
"Actually, I think being linked to the town playboy when my platform is teaching women to stay away form the playboys of their town can be construed as a bad thing."

Tycoon Reunion
Candace Havens with Shannon Leigh

In this story, we have two people who were in love when they were younger. However, Jake Michaels decided it would be best if left his hometown to pursue his career. Plus, he did it in a jerk kind of way and never told Annabelle Darlington he was leaving. Now life has thrown these two crazy kids back together. I thought it was a sweet story.

Passionate Persuasion
Rosemary Clement-Moore

In this story we meet Alex Drake who happen to be idiot frat boy when he was with Kiara Fredericks. I thought this story was sweet with reuniting lost love. Granted Alex had a lot of ground to make up and had a penchant for sticking his foot in his mouth. He did have a good heart, just a little misguided in college.

Date on the Run
Jill Monroe

The last story. First off, this was an all right read. I kind of felt the story line was a bit far-fetch and would probably done better as a full-length novel instead of a novella. It did have a great making for suspense romance, but felt rushed. Overall, I did like the hero, Ezra Washington, and his need to rescue damsels in distress. Then you have Juliet Martin who is a report that would like to move up from doing fluffy pieces to an investigate reporter. It had potential.


Bottom line: Mr. Virile and the Girl Next Door is my favorite story out of the anthology. With the witty lines and heat between hero and heroine makes this anthology worth the read. Tycoon Reunion & Passionate Persuasion are sweet reads. Which tends to happen when you have long lost loves reuniting. Date on the Run was a bit rush. Was the book worth my time? Yes. Did I love the stories? Most of them. Overall, enjoyable and if you are looking for some quick stories with bad dates you might want to read Date by Mistake. Its definitely safer than venturing out on a blind date yourself.

Copy provide by author

Rating:


Purchase links:
Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo

Touch of a Lady by Mia Marlowe

While I was at the gym I decided I wanted to read a novella. So, todays selection is Touch of a Lady by Mia Marlowe. I don't know how many of you have read book three of Touch of Seduction series. If you haven't then this a great start to introduce Delphinia Preston and Tristan Chalcroft Nash, Viscount Edmonstone, heir to the Earl of Devonwood. How their love was form.

I enjoyed that Delphinia isn't your typical heroine. Actually, I wonder if there is a bit of gypsy in her blood. Anyways, she tries to show Tristan there is more things to life than trying to save the family by marrying without love. Yet, Tristan is so stubborn about saving the family. I guess that is an endearing quality in some, then again it can get you into trouble.

Overall, I enjoyed the story. However, I did have to tell myself to breath at times. Even though I knew how it would end, because I did read Touch of a Scoundrel before reading Touch of a Lady. So, if you are looking to start something new and haven't read any of Touch of Seduction stories, I would suggest starting with the novella.

Rating:


Purchase Links:
Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo

A Little Bit Sinful by Robyn DeHart

Good morning everyone! I just finished A Little Bit Sinful by Robyn DeHart. This is the second book in the Forbidden Love series. I have to say that I did enjoyed the first book, A Little Bit Wicked, but I think this story was even better. Let me share why.

Back in A Little Bit Wicked, we first meet Clarissa Kincaid who happen to get herself in a bit of a pickle. She needed help to get her reputation repair. However, in A Little Bit Sinful we focus on Clarissa and her hopes to wed George Wilbanks. She has been waiting for sometime for George to pop the question, but alas the man seems reluctant. Crazy, I know.

She decides to enlist the help of a family friend, Justin Rodale. Though he was raised with his father the Duke of Chanceworth, he was never really accepted into society. You know being born on the other side of the blanket always causes problems. Yet, Justin is really concern with Clarissa's choice and really wants to help her see the error of her ways. What are you suppose to do with a stubborn young woman who wants to marry the wrong man? Looks like a lot work for Justin.

My first thought of Clarissa was "boy she's trouble." The girl is a bit impulsive and doesn't really think of the consequences until after fact. However, those are the best kind of heroines. Plus, they always need a hero even though they might not think so. Most people would think Justin as unlikely hero. Especially, when he's described as a pirate. Ooh yum; can't go wrong with a pirate looking hero. Even though he was born a bastard, he truly acted like gentleman. Especially around Clarissa, even though he was so tempted by her.

A Little Bit Sinful was a lot of fun to read. Especially, when you have an impulsive heroine with a penchant for trouble and a hero who was born on the wrong side of the blanket that is more honorable than most gentleman. If this sounds like your kind of read, you might want to checkout this story. I thought it was a sinful delight.

Copy provided by publisher

Rating:


Purchase Links:
Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo

Sacrifice of Passion by Melissa Bourbon Ramirez

Yesterday I spent most of the day reading Sacrifice of Passion by Melissa Bourbon Ramirez. I must say that it was suspenseful with twist and turns. Let's get started with what the story is about and my thoughts.

Twelve years earlier Delaney West was traumatize by something horrible that happen to her and decided the best way to deal with it was to run away. How does running away ever solved any problems? It never does just compacts the problem. However, she figures she needs to face her fears and decides to come home to San Julio.

Vic Vargas is surprise to see Delaney back in town. After all, he couldn't understand why she left in the first place and didn't leave any word for him. Heart broken Vic slowly pieces his life together. Yet, there's always a wrench through in. His happens to be finding out he had a son from another woman. Good times, good times.

Somehow Vic and Delaney are thrown together to slowly piece together what they had lost and figure out what is happening to all the livestock that has been dying. There has been talk of a Chupacabra, yes the mystical bloodsucker.

I didn't really know what to expect, seriously. However, I did enjoy the book and I found myself not wanting to put it down. I really wanted to know what was going on and like the hero I had a hard time believing there was a Chupacabra running around the area. Yet, most of the town believe there was one. I have to give the author credit, because I really thought the villain was someone else. She did a really good job at keeping you guessing. I seriously can't believe who the real villain was. I mean he was a wild card. Horrible man; still blows me away.

Overall, a really good read. If you are looking for a story that will keep you on the edge of your seat, you might want to read Sacrifice of Passion. I was at the edge of my seat throughout the whole story.

Copy provided by the author

Rating:


Purchase Links:
Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo

Ruined by a Rake by Erin Knightley

Yesterday I read Ruined by a Rake by Erin Knightley, which happens to be her newest novella. Since this is a novella, I won't go into too much detail about what the story is about, but mainly why I liked the story.

I must say that I found Eleanor Abbington a delightful character. Like any obedient young woman, she does what she is told. However, her Uncle Robert (a despicable guy) has given to an option to wed one of his buddies or force sister to do so. Seriously, he didn't win me over. I personally would like to do bodily harm to the old man. Sorry, I'm digressing. Fortunately Nicholas Norton comes home in the knick of time and help Eleanor.

Really, Ruined by a Rake is a delightful read. I really like Eleanor and her relation with Nicholas. I love the fact when Nicholas returns, Eleanor is taken by how much he has grown up. I love how Nicholas doesn't take to kindly to the fact that his step-father is a bully. Overall, a sweet and enjoyable read. So, if you are in the mood for a sweet novella, I would suggest Ruined by a Rake.

Copy provided by author

Rating:


Purchase Links:
Amazon | Barnes & Noble

eARC: Breaking Her Rules by Katie Reus

Let me be honest here, I don't tend to go for suspence romance. I don't know really why, just never really got into. However, I'm all for trying new things. So, todays selection is Breaking Her Rules  by Katie Reus. I must that I actually enjoyed the story and here's why?

First off, who doesn't love a butt kicking heroine, who really doesn't need a man to protect. That's pretty awesome. Which we have that with Iris Tarango, who works for Red Stone. Then you have the oh so yummy hero, Wyatt Christiansen, who just happens to be her husband. You got to love what happens in Vegas. Anyways, now they need to work together to make sure Wyatt stays safe.

Overall, I have say I found this Breaking Her Rules enjoyable. Plus, I liked the fast pace of the story once the establish they need to work together. Not only that Ms. Reus was able to make me envision some of the action scenes in my mind as I read the story.  For someone who doesn't read a lot of suspense romance, I found this worth the read and you might want to checkout the story. Bottom line is if you are looking for a fast pace action read with a butt kicking heroine and yummy hero, go for Breaking Her Rules. 

Copy provided by author

Rating:

Purchase Links:

Amazon | Barnes & Noble 

Stroke of Genius by Mia Marlowe

Early today I finished Stroke of Genius by Mia Marlowe. I must that I did enjoy this steamy read. Believe me there are some pretty hot scenes in this story. However, that's not the only reason I liked the story. So, let me share why I like the story.

First off, I'm partial to American heiresses as heroine (not that I'm one, but I just love when Americans cross the pond to stir up trouble. Not intentionally, just happens). Grace Makepeace's mother is hoping that Grace can catch the eye of a titled lord. Cause that's every mothers dream.

Grace's mother figures hiring the exclusive sculptor, Crispin Hawkins, to make a sculptor of Grace's hands will set her off in the eyes of the ton. Silly mothers. However, Crispin desires Grace and he's not sure why. So, there is so much heat between them.

I did enjoy Stroke of Genius for a couple of reason: 1) The chemistry between Grace and Crispin. 2) Who doesn't enjoy an American heiress as a heroine. 3) Surprisingly Crispin does have some morals, but you know they get toss out the window when he has the hots for the heroine. 4) A twist about his heritage. Let me tell you I was surprise.

Overall, Mia Marlowe does have a way with writing witty conversation and hot heroes. Seriously, I love the banter between the hero and heroine. So, if you are looking for a hot hero and an American heiress I would suggest taking a look at Stroke of Genius.

Rating:



Purchase Link:
Amazon

Regency and Fruit (not what your thinking)

Seriously, this isn't about the fruit in the regency era, but rather me being silly along with The Book Queen. A few months ago, The Book Queen and I were on Twitter talking about a variety apples and clementines which launch the idea of Regency Fruit. Originally it was going to be Regency Apples, but then I started thinking about all the different fruit that could be added to the list and what they could be categorize.

Since this is April Fools, let the silliness begin:

Honeycrisp Apples: I don't know how many of you that these are the best tasting apples (so far). So, BQ and I referred them to be the Dukes of the apple world. Here's why: They don't have a long season, but they are the best. So once the season is over they head into the country. Plus, they are sorely miss when they leave the season.

Red Delicious: We refer them to as the second sons. They always look delish, but once you sample it was a bad idea. Yes, they would be the ones to dally with, but not really worth the commitment.

Pink Lady: This lady is not be toy with. You never know what gossip she might spread. We thought of this apple as the harpy that can't keep her mouth shut and believe everything in those gossip rags.

Then we have are mistresses you know the ones that are strapping young aristocrats like to have there peccadillos or your married husbands like to dally with which are: Beauty of Bath, Beauty of Hampshire, Pacific Beauty, Tickled Pink

Beacon: sounds like the minister, bishop, or other church leader. Plus the apple is describe to be soft and have hard core. Just screams minister.

Beverley Pippin: Well, this would the apple of the first water (it's a rare apple)

Captain Kidd: Sounds like the militia to me.

Granny Smith: The one you turn to, because they are always true to form. Probably a wise old relative.

King Luscious: We have royalty among us. So, nice for them to join us this day.

Let's not forget are dandy. Of course he's not an apple but a Cutie or Clementine. This little sucker can only entertain for so long before you want the Grace of Apples. So, are dandy is just a substitute for what we really want. Oh well.

Since coming up with all these apples to go with some of the people you might find in the regency era, but I have learn there is an alphabet full of Apples and these are just a sample. I was planning to add more fruit like bananas and pineapples, but I think this might be a good start for future Fruit Regency. So, lets see what wackiness we can come up next year.

SO, what is your favorite apple? Mine is Honeycrisp.

It's Spring (or that's what it's suppose to be)

Taken with my iPhone in California

Isn't that a pretty picture. Kind gives you the essence of spring. Anyways, it's a new month with new list of books and events. I kind of feel cheated that Easter was in March, but at least I have a spring background. Anyways, I hope that wherever you are that it's starting to warm up and if you are in the southern hemisphere I hope that you are enjoying the weather.

So, here are the schedule events of the month (however more stuff could pop-up): 
~March 31st - April 10th Hero of My Heart Blog Hop
~8th Victoria James A Risk Worth Taking Blog Tour (Interview)
~9th Michelle Smart Tempted by Trouble Blog Tour (Guest Post)
~15th A Cinderella Makeover Blog Tour (Review Stop)
~April 23rd - May 1st The Assassins Hockey Blog Hop

List of Reads:
Breaking Her Rules~Katie Reus
The Cinderella Makeover~ Hope Tarr
A Bandit's Stolen Heart by Michelle McLean
Chasing Mrs. Right ~Katee Robert
Tempting Camaeron~ Karen Erickson
Night Demon~Lisa Kessler
Taking Shot~ Toni Aleo
Lady Vivian Defies a Duke~ Samantha Grace
Stroke of Genius~ Mia Marlowe
Sacrifice of Passion~ Melissa Bourbon Ramirez
A Very Exclusive Engagement~ Andrea Laurence
The Mistress Memoirs~ Jillian Hunter
Barefoot in the Sand~ Roxanne St. Claire
On the Island~  Tracey Garvis-Graves
Summer in Napa~ Marina Adair
Of A Little Bit Sinful~ Robyn DeHart

Of course there might be more books that might pop-up, but these are the ones that need to be read.

With that March's recap:
With my crazy long list and then adding some books to the list. I manage to accomplish the task set before me. Trust me that was a crazy long list. I hope I can accomplish my new list before the next month. So, I'll get hopping on it. See y'all around.

Tempted by Trouble by Michelle Smart

Let me just say, I'm so sorry for putting Tempted by Trouble by Michelle Smart off. Seriously LOVED this book, I couldn't put it down, even with the headache. This tempting story is worth the time to read. Let me share what this story is about and my thoughts.

Pippa Rowantree is forced to go into exile for a couple weeks while the situation of the scandal slowly dies down. Force to stay with Marco Capello who just sees her as the same party girl that she was seven years prior. Somehow they need to keep out of each others way in order to find peace. Yet, that isn't in the cards for them.

I felt so sorry for Pippa. I don't know, but how many people do stupid things when they were younger. I mean seriously, some people need to make mistakes and learn from them. Pippa was one of those people. However, Marco kept throwing her past in her face. No matter how hard she tried to explain she had change, Marco wouldn't hear. He basically blamed her for ruining his life. Oh man, that pretty sucked.

I liked Marco and disliked at the same time. He was so judgmental towards Pippa it made me dislike him. Then when you read what happen to his life, you kind of understand. However, I kept thinking she was still a teen when all that happen. So, I had mix feelings towards Marco.

Seriously, LOVED the story. Tempted by Trouble definitely tugged on my heart. Throughout the story I felt those tears wanting to come out, because I felt for Pippa. Towards the end the flood gates couldn't be closed. Fantastic read! I personally like the animosity between Pippa and Marco, because of Marco wasn't willing to reconcile with the past. So, if you are looking for a read that tugs at your heart and hope of reconciliation, you might want to read Tempted by Trouble. I must say it was certainly a tempting read.

Copy provided by the publisher

Rating:


Purchase links:
Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Torch in the Forest by Marcie Kremer

The other day I read Torch in the Forest by Marcie Kremer. First off, this is not normally a book I would read. However, I'm always looking for new reads, especially when it comes to historical romance novels. So, today I bring to you a Medieval tale today.

The tale starts out with a very young widow, Eleanor of Strathcombe who has a lot on her plate. First instance, she has an arrogant neighbor Hugh of Wykeham, who has an issue of her management style. On top of it all, Hugh is in the market for a new wife and figure Eleanor sister would be a perfect candidate, since she's young and malleable. However, there other things a foot. For instance, there are poachers running rampant between Hugh and Eleanor's land.

As I said this isn't a story I would normally look at. However. the story intrigued me. I must it was a good read and the writing was well done. Plus, as I read Torch in the Forest I felt like I was part of the story. I like Eleanor. I must say she handled everything very well. Plus, she even stood up to Hugh, which most people wouldn't have done so. Hugh had a temper and didn't trust anyone. So, we have Eleanor who will trust almost anyone (within reason) and Hugh who was hurt by the past and doesn't trust anyone.

Overall, a good read, especially if you are a fan of Medieval stories. I liked Marcie Kremer's writing style, so I most likely to checkout more stories by her. So, if you are looking for a Medieval with poachers and power struggle, I would suggest Torch in the Forest. 

Copy provided by publisher

Rating:

1/2

Purchase Links:

Amazon | Barnes & Noble 

Hero of My Heart Blog Hop

Guess what time it is? It's time for another Blog Hop. Well, I wish you all luck. Plus, there are some awesome prizes. Have fun as you hop around.


Don't forget to leave you a comment about Your New Years Resolution. I don't make any, but how about you.

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eARC: Hero of My Heart by Megan Frampton

All right, last night I was able to finished Hero of My Heart by Megan Frampton. I must say I enjoyed this quick read. I shall share what this story entailed and my thoughts.

Poor Mary Smith has been down on her luck. I mean her rotten half-brother decides to sell her virginity to the highest bidder to pay off his debt. The one person who saves her is Alasdair Thornham, Marquess of Datchworth, who is... well just say he isn't really hero material.

As you read the story, you understand why he isn't hero material. However, he sees a greater need to rescue a damsel in distress. Which isn't really in his nature, because he's a selfish bastard. Yet, somehow Mary starts to bring out his good side, which he thought was buried and long gone.

Honestly, I enjoyed this story. I mean the hero was able to overcome his addiction and able look beyond his selfish needs. I really like Mary. Heres why: Sometimes when you have a heroine with a religious background they tend to be bit tedious. However, she wasn't like that and a lot might have to do with the information she received on her fathers deathbed. Information like that starts to question things and what's the purpose of life.

Plus, I really appreciate how the author you use the proverb of "The road to hell is paved with good intentions." I felt that story really showed that, because both hero and heroine were dealing with there on hell. I enjoyed how the author had both characters help each other to get out of there own hell.

Bottom line: I enjoyed this quick read and it had me tearing up at certain parts of the story. Overall, I thought it was done well. So, if you are looking for a quick read with a seriously flawed hero and a heroine in need of rescuing, I would suggest Hero of My Heart.

Copy provided by Random House via NetGalley

Rating:


Purchase Links:
Amazon | Barnes & Noble

ARC: Sweet Madness by Heather Snow

I just finished Sweet Madness by Heather Snow. When I first started this book, it had a different feel from her first two novels. Don't get me wrong its still a fabulous read, just had a different feel. Let me explain.

In the Ms. Snow's first book Sweet Enemy we meet Penelope and she's a normal debutante focusing on making a good match. When she married her first husband Michael, everything changed. She didn't know how to handle him, which changed her forever.

Three years later, she goes and visits her husband's cousin, Gabriel Devereaux. She finds him locked away in a home for lunatics. The more she talks with Gabriel, the more she questions if he should really be locked away from everyone.

Penelope Bridgeman is different from Ms. Snow's last two heroines. Here's how: First off, Liliana and Emma were more bluestock heroines while Penelope tends to use more of her intuition. Then we have a hero who believe that he's crazy. Makes for an interesting story.

When I started reading Sweet Madness, it felt a little darker and it might have a lot to do with it starting in home for the crazies. I was a little worry about the story, as I continue to read my fears subsided. I actually found myself really enjoying the story between Penelope and Gabriel. Surprisingly, they had a lot in common. I love how they were able to reconcile the past with each others help.

I enjoyed how Ms. Snow was able to work in conditions that we would recognize as bipolar disorder or PTSD in the regency era. I also have to give her credit for hiding the villain so well. I really thought it was someone else, but I was so wrong.

Overall, I feel that Sweet Madness was done extremely well done. I would recommend this remarkable read. However, I must give a little warning, it is a little slow at the beginning, but it did start to pick up the pace once they left home. I hope you get a chance to enjoy the madness of this read.

Copy provided by the author.

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eARC: Darius by Grace Burrowes

Last night I finished Darius by Grace Burrowes. I have to say I was on the fence on what I thought of the story through most of the book. Before I explain my thoughts, I guess I should share what the story is about.

Darius Lindsay is a penniless second son of an Earl and has found a way to make money. He tends his to use his body to entertain jaded women of society to make a living. Each time losing himself a little more. Until Lord William Longstreet makes him an offer that will help him break away the life he is living. However, there is a slight problem when he becomes attracted to Vivian when they try to make Lord Longstreet an heir.

So, that's the simple gist of the story. I'm sure this probably happened more often then we like to think. Anyways, Darius is different from other Grace Burrowes stories, but the writing is still excellent. I just don't think this is a story for me. However, there are others who will love Darius. As the story progress, I did start to like the story more, but just didn't grab me to the point of love. However, it did intrigue me enough to wonder what happen to his sister. Which will be the next book, but I don't know if I want to continue to reading. Maybe in a few months, who knows?

I did like Darius and I thought he was a pretty stand up guy once he remove is wall. Vivian was young and need rescuing from her step-father. Like other Grace Burrowes books you find a twisted villain. I have say I was surprise with who the villain was, because I thought it was someone else.

Bottom line: It's not a bad a read, and I did warm-up to book. However, it wasn't for me. I'm all for trying something different. So, if Darius piques your interest, I would say give a try, because Ms. Burrowes is an excellent writer. For some people the story might be right up there alley.

Copy provide by Sourcebooks via NetGalley

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With This Kiss (Part Three) by Eloisa James

We finally have the last installment of With This Kiss (Part Three). The last time we saw Colin and Grace, Grace was trying to make her escape back home. Feeling hurt and not sure of what has happening.
Finally, we have the closure we all have been waiting for. Ms. James finally lets us have the happy ending we all want. As we travel through the three part serial we have seen so much go on. I have to say it was nice journey, but a bit rough at times.

Overall, Ms. James comes through to give a happy ending. I love the story as a whole, but I'm not sure if I'm a fan of serials. I don't know if I would purchase another serial again or just wait till all the parts came out. However, Ms. James is definitely the queen of writing fairytale endings. So, if you are looking for a wonderful story and a happy ending, I would say check out Colin and Graces story.



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eARC: Last Chance Book Club by Hope Ramsay

All right everyone it's time to revisit Last Chance, South Carolina. I have to say that I have enjoyed all the Last Chance books I have read so far, and I must I say I plan to visit the other books I haven't read yet. Today Last Chance book is Last Chance Book Club. Just like the other books it shares the same heart-warming experience and Miz Miriam still playing matchmaker. So, let's meet todays soul mates.

Savannah White has decided she needed to break away from her life in Baltimore and figure the best place to go would be Last Chance. Growing up she remember her summers in Last Chance and figure it would be a great place to raise her son. However, she didn't count on running into Dash Randall.

Dash Randall didn't really like Savannah growing up. Always thought she was a bit of a princess. So, he has a hard time believing she has change. However, he finds himself drawn to Savannah and her son. Maybe they can mend the fence and become friends or more.

I actually thought this story was adorable. For those who have read Pride & Prejudice might enjoy some of the parallels that are drawn in Last Chance Book Club. I found myself laughing, because of Savannah and Dash butting-heads at every possible way.

Here's the bottom line: If you love the previous Last Chance books, you will love this book too. Last Chance Book Club has the same southern charm you find in the other stories and most important a happy ending that melts your heart. I hope you all take a chance on Last Chance Book Club.

Copy provide by Forever Romance via NetGalley

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