Monthly Archives: January 2013

Come A Little Bit Closer by Bella Andre – a Review

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Come A Little Bit Closer by Bella Andre – a Review

 

Come a Little Bit Closer

Bella Andre has created a wonderful series with the Sullivan family.  These are all contemporary, and sexy erotic romances.  Each family member and the spouse they fall in love with make wonderful sweet stories of true love.  This review is on Come a Little Closer, which is the 7th Sullivan book.

Description:
Movie star Smith Sullivan can’t afford any distractions. He’s staking his entire reputation on his new film…but he can’t stop thinking about Valentina Landon and the fire he sees smoldering just beneath the surface of her cool exterior.

Valentina isn’t averse to sensual pleasure, or even to the idea of finding true love, but as a Hollywood business manager she’s watched too many smart women fall for actors…only to be torn apart when the fairytale comes to its inevitable end.

But when intense weeks together on set turn their heated attraction into red-hot flames of passion, Smith knows he has to find a way to convince Valentina to let him get a little bit closer. Close enough to completely steal her heart…the way she’s stolen his from the start

Review:

Come a  Little Closer is Smith Sullivan’s book, and as good as all the other Sullivan brothers and sisters are, this turned out to be one of the best, with a marvelous hero in Smith.  Make no mistake, each Sullivan brother is to die for, and Smith ups the ante a bit more.

Smith is the movie star in the family, and he is a man who is used to every woman panting over him.  Having a different woman in his bed every night, may have been what he enjoyed all these years, but Smith has seen his brothers and sisters fall in love, and he is ready to find the perfect woman for himself. 

Smith is directing and starring in a movie that he wrote, and has cast upcoming young start, Tatiana Landon, as his leading lady.  Valentina Landon is Tatiana’s sister, and she is also her manager.  Val comes prepared to protect her sister from Smith, since she does not trust or like any movie starts.  Valentina’s widowed mother brings home a different actor often, and this has caused Val to strongly have bad vibes for the Hollywood heartthrobs.

Val keeps her distance from Smith, and avoids him mostly.  But Smith notices her from the start, and does everything he can to get her attention.   The more Val is nasty or ignores him, he rises to the challenge and begins to woo her.  Despite her determination to not let his gorgeous looks; his kind and friendly demeanor; she finds herself becoming more and more attracted to Smith. He does not act at all like a movie star, and he is wonderful with her sister, while filming. 

What makes this such a great romance is to see Smith fall totally in love with Val.  She is the woman he has been waiting for all of his life.  Val gives in to her sexual attraction, figuring once they have sex, he will move on.  But when he wants her with him all the time, and begins to profess his love of her, she realizes she is falling in love with him.  Her fears from her childhood, holds her back, but Smith is such a wonderful hero, and in time, as this is romance, and a happy ending is a must, we watch as her walls start tumbling down.   On the movie set, a love scene between Tatiana and Smith, which Smith handles carefully, is what breaks Val.  Of course, as in all of the Sullivan series, the sex scenes are downright hot and steamy throughout the book, with Val and Smith simply awesome together. Even with all the hot steamy sex, Andre creates such a wonderful storyline that has you rooting for the couple.

One of the best things about how Andre writes this series, is that she brings all the members of the family into the story, and it’s fun to see them.  We get to know what is going on, and makes us feel like part of the family. Come a Little Closer is a wonderful addition to this fantastic series.  If you have not read the Sullivan series, this might be a good time to start, as Bella Andre writes this so well.

Reviewed by Barb

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The Sullivans Series by Bella Andre – a Synopsis

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The Sullivan Series by Bella Andre – a Synopsis

TheSulllivanSeriesbyBellaAndre-1

The Look of Love – Book 1
Chase & Chloe
Release Date: June 2011

THE LOOK OF LOVE introduces you to a fun and emotional contemporary romance series about the Sullivan family. Because when a Sullivan bad boy falls…he falls hard. And it’s forever.

Chloe Peterson is having a bad night. A really bad night. The large bruise on her cheek can attest to that. And when her car skids off the side of a wet country road straight into a ditch, she’s convinced even the gorgeous guy who rescues her in the middle of the rain storm must be too good to be true. Or is he?

As a successful photographer who frequently travels around the world, Chase Sullivan has his pick of beautiful women, and whenever he’s home in San Francisco, one of his seven siblings is usually up for causing a little fun trouble. Chase thinks his life is great just as it is—until the night he finds Chloe and her totaled car on the side of the road in Napa Valley. Not only has Chase never met anyone so lovely, both inside and out, but he quickly realizes Chloe has much bigger problems than her damaged car. Soon, Chase is willing to move mountains to love—and protect—her, but will Chloe let him?

Chloe vows never to make the mistake of trusting a man again. Only, with every loving look Chase gives her—and every sinfully sweet caress—as the attraction between them sparks and sizzles, she can’t help but wonder if she’s met the only exception. And although Chase didn’t realize his life was going to change forever in an instant, amazingly, he isn’t the least bit interested in fighting that change. Instead, he’s gearing up for a different fight altogether…for Chloe’s heart.

From This Moment On – Book 2
Marcus & Nicola
Release Date: September, 2011

For thirty-six years, Marcus Sullivan has been the responsible older brother, stepping in to take care of his seven siblings after their father died when they were children. But when the perfectly ordered future he’s planned for himself turns out to be nothing but a lie, Marcus needs one reckless night to shake free from it all.

Nicola Harding is known throughout the world by only one name – Nico – for her catchy, sensual pop songs. Only, what no one knows about the twenty-five year old singer is that her sex-kitten image is totally false. After a terrible betrayal by a man who loved fame far more than he ever loved her, she vows not to let anyone else get close enough to find out who she really is…or hurt her again. Especially not the gorgeous stranger she meets at a nightclub, even though the hunger – and the sinful promises – in his dark eyes make her want to spill all her secrets.

One night is all Nicola and Marcus agree to share with each other. But nothing goes as they plan when instead of simply tangling limbs, they find a deeper connection than either of them could have anticipated. And even though they both try to fight it, growing emotions – and sizzling attraction – keep drawing them closer together.

Close enough for them to wonder if stealing one more secret moment together can ever be enough?

Can’t Help Falling In Love – Book 3
Gabe & Megan
Release Date: December, 2011

Gabe Sullivan risks his life every day as a firefighter in San Francisco. But after learning a brutal lesson about professional boundaries, he knows better than to risk his heart to his fire victims ever again. Especially the brave mother and daughter he saved from a deadly apartment fire…and can’t stop thinking about.

Megan Harris knows she owes the heroic firefighter everything for running into a burning building to save her and her seven-year-old daughter. Everything except her heart. Because after losing her navy pilot husband five years ago, she has vowed to never suffer through loving – and losing – a man with a dangerous job again.

Only, when Gabe and Megan meet again and uncontrollable flames of desire ignite between them, how can he possibly ignore her courage, determination, and beauty? And how can she deny not only his strong bond with her daughter…but the way his sweetly sensual kisses are challenging her to risk everything she’s been guarding for so long?

If one – or both – of them aren’t careful, they just might end up falling in love.

I Only Have Eyes For You – Book 4
Sophie & Jake
Release Date: March 2012

Sophie Sullivan, a librarian in San Francisco, was five years old when she fell head over heels in love with Jake McCann. Twenty years later, she’s convinced the notorious bad boy still sees her as the “nice” Sullivan twin. That is, when he bothers to look at her at all. But when they both get caught up in the magic of the first Sullivan wedding, she knows it’s long past time to do whatever it takes to make him see her for who she truly is…the woman who will love him forever.

Jake has always been a magnet for women, especially since his Irish pubs made him extremely wealthy. But the only woman he really wants is the one he can never have. Not only is Sophie his best friend’s off-limits younger sister…he can’t risk letting her get close enough to discover his deeply hidden secret.

Only, when Sophie appears on his doorstep as Jake’s every fantasy come to life—smart, beautiful, and shockingly sexy—he doesn’t have a prayer of taking his eyes, or his hands, off her. And he can’t stop craving more of her sweet smiles and sinful kisses. Because even though Jake knows loving Sophie isn’t the right thing to do…how can he possibly resist?

If You Were Mine – Book 5
Zach & Heather
Release Date: September 2012

Can two people who have both sworn off love find forever in each other’s arms?

The last thing Zach Sullivan wants is to take care of his brother’s new puppy for two weeks. Until he meets the dog trainer, that is. Heather is bright, beautiful, and he can’t stop thinking about her. Unfortunately, she just might be the only woman on earth who wants nothing to do with him.

Heather Linsey can’t believe she’s stuck working with one of the city’s top dogs, auto-shop tycoon Zach Sullivan. Especially when his focus is clear from the start—not only to learn how to deal with his temporary puppy…but also to make Heather his. Having sworn off love at seventeen when she realized it was nothing more than a pack of lies, she has stuck to her vow never to fall for a charming man.

But as Heather’s determination to push Zach away only fuels his determination to get closer—and the sensual and emotional connection between them grows more and more undeniable—will the biggest Sullivan bad boy of all tempt her into believing in love again?

Let Me Be The One – Book 6
Ryan & Vicki
Release Date: August 2012

In LET ME BE THE ONE, the brand-new book in Bella Andre’s New York Times and USA Today bestselling series about the Sullivan family, an unexpected friends-to-lovers romance might not only turn out to be so much hotter than anything bad boy pro baseball player Ryan Sullivan has ever known…but much, much sweeter, too.

When Vicki Bennett saved Ryan Sullivan’s life as a teenager, it was the beginning of a close friendship that never wavered despite her failed marriage to someone else and Ryan’s well-earned reputation as a ladies man. So when she suddenly needs a pretend boyfriend to protect herself and her career from a powerful man’s advances, he is the only person she can imagine asking.

Ryan will do anything to protect Vicki from harm, but when their “fake” kisses and caresses lead to an incredibly sensual night that neither of them can resist, will he have made the biggest mistake of all by irreparably jeopardizing their friendship? Or is it possible that what they’ve both been looking for has been right there the whole time…and the perfect combination of wicked and sweet, friendship and love, is finally within reach?

Come A Little Bit Closer – Book 7
Smith & Valentina
Release Date: November 2012

Movie star Smith Sullivan can’t afford any distractions. He’s staking his entire reputation on his new film…but he can’t stop thinking about Valentina Landon and the fire he sees smoldering just beneath the surface.

Valentina isn’t averse to sensual pleasure, or even to the idea of finding true love, but as a Hollywood business manager she’s watched too many smart women fall for actors…only to be torn apart when the fairytale comes to its inevitable end.

But when intense weeks together on set turn their heated attraction into red-hot flames of passion, Smith knows he has to find a way to convince Valentina to let him get a little bit closer. Close enough to completely steal her heart…the way she’s stolen his from the start.

Always On My Mind – Book 8
Lori & ?
Release Date: March, 2013

Synopsis compiled by Barb

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Rhapsody by Sharon Clare-a review

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RHAPSODY by Sharon Clare-a review

Rhapsody

ABOUT THE BOOK Released December 24, 2012

Isabelle plans to escape the real world when she takes a tropical vacation to work on her relationship recovery program. But escape becomes too real when she realizes Paradise Resort has disappeared. She is trapped in an immortal world where she must win her freedom by seducing her opponent, a man she labeled off limits, in a board game of seduction. Her resistance is solid, safe, and steadfast until her traitorous body decides this is a game she wants to play.

Jonathan has made seducing women an art form. His needs are simple: break down Isabelle’s resistance, seduce the panties off her, and get back to the real world fast where an emergency needs his attention. He plays to win, but when Isabelle takes a penalty and they must play out her secret fantasy, Jonathan struggles to follow the objective and keep his own arousal under control. Desire grows between them as each roll of the die reveals secrets, truths and a greater expanse of skin, until the mastermind behind the game forces Jonathan to confront his worse fear or lose Isabelle forever.

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REVIEW: RHAPSODY is romantic fantasy storyline that involves two people caught up in a supernatural game of match making. This is not your typical fantasy storyline, because much of what happens after the initial ‘fantasy’ introduction could be considered an erotic/romantic tale between a couple of strangers who get lost, on a beach, in the dark.

This is a storyline that involves two people searching for something in their lives and not realizing that the one thing they each need and want is standing in from of them-they just need a little push in the right direction-and that is where the ‘supernatural’ board game comes into play.

Sharon Clare takes the reader on a fantasy ride that follows the roll of the dice. With each turn, the sexual tension between Isabelle and Jonathan increases. Following the game board instructions, Isabelle and Jonathan must interact with each other in the ultimate game of seduction where if they do not follow the rules, they will be trapped in this alternate reality forever.

Rhapsody is a seductive storyline of two people getting to know each other both physically and emotionally with every roll of the dice. It is an interesting concept and one that could probably be played out between many couples –acting out their fantasies to a board game premise. There is a little bit of fantasy, a little bit of romance and a little bit of sex. And the ending comes with a little bit of a surprise. All I could think was-after all of that-this happens!!

ORDER LINKS: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / KOBO

Copy supplied by the author.

Reviewed by Sandy

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sharon ClareSharon Clare fell in love with writing at the University of Toronto where she graduated with a science degree in psychology and professional writing. She writes paranormal romance and has published short stories, art reviews, newsletter and magazine articles. Her favourite place to write is outside under the maple trees beside the trickling pond and blooming lilies.

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Look Twice by M. Garzon – a Review

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Look Twice by M. Garzon – a Review

look twice

From Book Cover:
Blood is thicker than water.

I didn’t understand that expression when I was a kid. I only knew that I was closer to my brother Seth than to anyone else in the world. He was the calm to my storm, the light to my dark. We were tied to the rest of our complicated family by bonds beyond blood—love, loyalty, convenience—but as it turns out, the pull of blood is strong. Maybe even strong enough to tear me away from the person with whom I shared my very first breath.

Review:

Before I head into my review I should clarify that M Garzon’s Blaze series was not meant to be a YA series.  Even though Blaze of Glory was reviewed as a YA story by many, me included, it was not meant to be YA.  Through e-mails back and forth with Ms. Garzon she informed me that if it was up to her, she would classify this series as a Family Drama instead of YA.  I for one completely agree with her on that classification.  Both Blaze of Glory and now Look Twice are all about family drama and the dynamics that take place within the family unit.

Now on to my review.

Once again Ms. Garzon creates a story that is real and emotional, with complex and multidimensional characters, who wrap themselves around your heart and refuse to let go.  Her storylines and characters pull you into the drama that unfolds within the pages and you can’t help but feel as though you are there, a member of the family, witnessing every event that takes place.  I love it when an author can draw me into their story like that and make me forget everything else around me. 

Look Twice resumes right where Blaze ended.  It’s now time for Tea and Jaden to face the music about there blossoming relationship. Now if you remember from Blaze we learned that Tea and her twin brother Seth were adopted by Jaden’s Uncle Dec after he married their mother.  Having grown up like ‘cousins’ their families are none to impressed to learn of this relationship.  Throughout this book we get to see just how strong their love for each other is, as they must deal with their respective families. Coming from a close knit family, I myself can see where their families are coming from, but at the same time see there really is no reason to be against their relationship.  I really enjoyed the way Garzon handles the issues with Tea and Jaden’s relationship, but at the same time gives them the chance to grow, mature and become the strong couple that they are.  They deserve to have a happy ever after and I for one am one of their supporters. 

Throughout Look Twice we not only get to see Tea and Jaden grow as a couple and deal with all the drama that surrounds their relationship, but we also get to see Seth come to the fore front.  I really liked the way Garzon brings Seth more and more into the series in this book and makes him a major player.  We saw the relationship between brother and sister in Blaze, but in Look Twice, we get so see more into their sibling relationship, their thoughts on their adopted family, and life in general.  Everything that has ever happened to them so far leads Seth to make a major decision in his life, to find out where they came from.  He wants to seek out his biological father.  This event becomes a major focus in the story, which in turn becomes the catalyst that sets in motion the events that unfold in the later half of this book.

I was very intrigued with this new development and growth with Seth and wanted to see where Garzon would take us.  We really get to see just who Seth is and how he feels about himself right now, and why it’s so important to find out who his biological father is.  The issues that come into play over locating this man, and finding out the details of why he left their mother are well done, and expertly handled.  The raw emotion from these scenes just pours off the pages and had me rivoted till the very end, only to be left hanging as to what is going to happen next.  Yes folks, Ms. Garzon has done it again, leaves us hanging and salivating for the story to continue. 

In closing I just want to say that I really enjoyed Look Twice.  Garzon’s writing style, her creativity, storylines, and character development are wonderful and very enjoyable to read.  I love the realness of her characters and the events/obstacles that take place.  Like I said earlier, Ms. Garzon pulls you into her story and you become a part of the book following Tea and Jaden on their journey, navigating the challenges that face them in their relationship, while at the same time watching Seth come into his own.  As I stated earlier we are left hanging at the end of the book and it only left me wanting more.  I for one can’t wait to see what’s in store for Tea, Jaden and Seth in the next installment of this series.  Will Tea and Jaden finally have the HEA, will Seth find what it is he feels is missing from his life, etc.  If you haven’t read this series yet, I highly recommend it, you won’t be disappointed. 

Reviewed by Marcie

Copy provided by Author

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Is This All There Is? by Patricia Mann-a review

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IS THIS ALL THERE IS? By Patricia Mann-a review

17190494

ABOUT THE BOOK: Released January 3, 2013

Beth Thomas has the perfect life. At thirty-five, she’s married to her college sweetheart, has two adorable kids, and teaches part time at the local university. But when a friend persuades Beth to go dancing on a rare night out, a chance meeting with twenty one year old Dave, one of her former students, changes the course of her life. Loud music, too much to drink, and the thrill of feeling young again lead to an unforgettable kiss that was never supposed to happen. As she tries to put the memory behind her, Dave’s pursuit leaves Beth torn between what her mind says is right and what her heart and body crave.

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REVIEW:

Patricia Mann’s IS THIS ALL THERE IS ? is a story for anyone considering an affair. Whether it is an affair of the heart or a physical affair there are dangers, heartbreak, excitement, sorrow, anger, pain, retribution and regret.

Beth Thomas is a married woman with two small children, teaches part time at the local college and, she and her husband have fallen into a rut. Desire has given way to ambivalence and sex has given way to sleep. Like many young families, there are days, even weeks, where it seems everything leads to a diaper pail or washing machine. But for Beth Thomas, an opportunity presents itself in the guise of a former student who has had a major crush on his teacher since the first time he laid eyes on her.

What woman wouldn’t want the adoration and attention of a hot twenty-something young man who had yet to fall prey to the realities of life. But Beth knows she is treading into dangerous waters and no one will win in the end.

IS THIS ALL THERE IS is one woman’s journey into the unknown-a journey of discovery. Like many woman, Beth feels she is missing something in her life. She is not actively looking for anything or anyone, but she is floundering in her present circumstance. Real life isn’t pretty some days but the alternative is even uglier.

Relationships are difficult at best and many couples find themselves dissatisfied with the direction of their marriage. This is not to say that these couples stray or go looking for something on the side. Children can bring out a side to people that they never knew existed. Raising a family is hard, especially in today’s society where everyone is looking for something different, something new. And falling into a rut, into a familiar pattern but a pattern that is going around in circles, can sometimes pull the person into another direction. Whether intentionally or otherwise, looking for something different isn’t always better.

IS THIS ALL THERE IS is an eye-opener for anyone considering stepping outside of the marriage. Many women (and men) will recognize themselves-whether it is in the form of the married woman who is looking for something different or the mother whose self-image is now tied to her family. The reality of the situation will strike a chord with many readers and will have you thinking-IS THIS ALL THERE IS?

Patricia Mann has written a storyline, whether taken from real life or a work of fiction, that will make you sit up and think. It will be a difficult read for some, especially those who have experienced the emotional trauma and heartache of an affair. Is it worth the physical and emotional pain to look for something different or something you believe is more exciting, when everything you ever needed, was at home-waiting to be explored and discovered?

Patricia is currently writing a sequel to IS THIS ALL THERE IS?

ORDER LINKS: Amazon / Barnes and Noble /

Copy supplied by author

Reviewed by Sandy

There is a GIVEAWAY at GOODREADS for a chance to WIN one of ten copies of IS THIS ALL THERE IS? Click HERE to enter

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Patricia Mann


 

Patricia Mann is a university professor. She lives in California with her husband, their two kids, and a sweet, silly old dog.

Follow Patricia at : Goodreads / Website / Blog

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Cindy Gerard: Killing Time Blog Tour and Giveaway

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Cindy Gerard: Killing Time Blog Tour and Giveaway

Cindy Gerard Blog Tour

Killing Time
(One Eyed Jacks #1)
Publisher:  Pocket Books
Publication date:  January 22, 2013

Killing Time

Amazon / Barnes and Noble / The Book Depository/ Simon and Shuster

Read an Excerpt

An exciting new series featuring Mike “Primetown” Brown, a character from her popular
“Black Ops, Inc.” series.

For the seven years after Operation Slam Dunk went south, Mike Brown got drunk on each anniversary. The eighth year was no different–until he was drugged by a woman and woke up to her questions about what had happened eight years ago in Afghanistan. CIA attorney Eva Salinas has her own theory behind what happened to Mike’s team–which included her husband–in Afghanistan eight years ago, and she’s determined to prove foul play. Though she doesn’t trust him, Mike is the only person she can turn to for help. Under an assumed name, Eva convinces Mike to assemble a new team and go after the traitor who screwed up both their lives. As they track down the rogue who started it all, Eva and Mike discover they can’t live without each other. But can they stay alive while an enemy is still on the loose?

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Cindy Gerard

The only thing Cindy had in mind when she started writing her first book was finishing it. The issue of actually selling it came much later. Only after she made that life-altering first sale did she realize that one book would never be enough. Now, over 20 books and numerous awards later, Cindy laughingly admits that she can barely remember life before…well, was there life before writing?

Actually, yes there was, and still is. A professional career woman, Cindy is a trainer for the Iowa Department of Human Services, a position she states is both challenging and rewarding. “Human Services is a front-line, real-life event. Everything about the job is immediate, from serving families in crisis, to assisting staff with difficult situations, to meeting tension-fraught deadlines.”

Cindy’s writing has netted her spots on bestseller lists, numerous RT nominations and awards, the Colorado Romance Writers Award of Excellence, a National Reader’s Choice Award and two RITA nominations.

Between writing and working full time you wouldn’t think Cindy would have much time for anything else. And while she does find her work and her writing rewarding, there does have to be more. Cindy has more. Much more. She is happily married to the perfect man. Tom’s a cowboy, ladies!

Both Tom and Cindy enjoy gardening and have recently expanded their annual beds into a perennial garden. Cindy says she can hardly wait for spring and the promise of all that reawakening and the colorful blooms.

In addition to the horses, the Gerards have two dogs, Ellie and Boomer, who pretty much get anything they want. Tom and Cindy have one son, Kyle, who, after years of keeping them in suspense, found Eileen, the perfect woman.

Connect with Cindy:

Website / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads / Cindy’s Amazon Page

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Interview-Purple

CINDY GERARD-Interview with the Author

TRC: Hi Cindy and welcome to The Reading Café.  Congratulations on the upcoming release of KILLING TIME-the first storyline in your new ONE EYED JACKS series
For everyone who doesn’t know Cindy Gerard-would you please tell us something about yourself?

Cindy: Can I just say that I really hate this question because I am soooo boring. I could lie but that’s not me. I’m a home body who loves family and friends, cards, board games and is currently addicted to on line scrabble. I spoil my 2 cats and my dog and enjoy taking care of my new hobby (fresh water aquariums) My favorite way to spend a day is at home in my Pj’s, snuggling up with a good book (still prefer the paper in my hand) with my critters snuggled up beside me. SEE? Boring…..

Killing TimeTRC: KILING TIME is your first storyline in the One Eyed Jacks series.  Would you please tell us the premise behind the series and the first installment?

Cindy: Gladly. Thanks for asking. The One Eyed Jacks (a multi-branch military task force formed in 2002 and disbanded in 2005) got their nick name because of the uniqueness of their experimental unit, their tight camaraderie, their slightly reckless reputation, their favorite downtime/pastime of high stakes poker and because each of them made a pact to always carry a One Eyed Jack playing card (either a Jack of hearts or a Jack of spades) as their lucky charm and a sign of unity.

Today, only three men of the original detail are still alive – Mike Brown, Bobby Taggart, Jamie Cooper. On their last mission in Afghanistan, all three were dealt a losing hand and now share one common bond: The military that they proudly served had cut them loose eight years ago with a ‘less than honorable’ discharge when their team led a covert operation that went south and the powers that be laid the blame squarely on their shoulders.

Now Brown, Taggart and Cooper lead separate lives in separate countries, have all dropped out of ‘normal society’ and not only live with the lie that led to their military separation but with the weight of the deaths of both their task force team members and several innocent civilians haunting them.

For these three men, life is now all about getting by, about forgetting the past, dealing with the anger and coping with the hand they’ve been dealt. None of them intend to break the status quo – until a mysterious woman confronts and forces Brown to ask questions about what really happened in Afghanistan and how those events played into a current national security threat.  KILLING TIME leads Mike and Eva from Lima, Peru, to Washington D.C. and finally to the Idaho Panhandle where they infiltrate a survivalist group that hides a deep and dangerous secret and the key to Mike’s redemption.

TRC: How many books do you have planned for the series? .

Cindy: I had initially planned 2 more books in the series – RUNNING BLIND and TAKING FIRE. I’ve since been given the opportunity to write a 4th book, one that will come out next December (just in time for Christmas!!) that’s a bonus book in the series. I’m so excited about THE WAY HOME. It’s a homecoming story featuring Tyler Brown (Mike’s brother) and is a little different book than I usually write. Still romance, still suspense, still features our black ops warriors, but THE WAY HOME has a little something extra … something that is leading me on a very special journey as I write it.

TRC: Mike ‘Primetime’ Brown is the hero in Killing Time. Who was the inspiration behind this particular character?

Cindy: Every bad boy I’ve ever known LOL Seriously, Mike embodies everything I love about a man. He’s strong when it counts, funny, irreverent, filled with integrity even though he’d deny there was an honorable bone in his body.

TRC: If you could virtually cast the characters of Mike Brown and Eva Silanas, which models or actors would best represent your ideal?

Cindy: I like Bradley Cooper for Mike and Salma Hayek as Eva.

TRC: What do you believe is the biggest misconception about you?

Cindy: That I lead a glamorous life. LOL The truth is I’m a home body. If I make the mistake of heading for my PC too early, I may spend the day in my PJ’s and not even realize it until mid afternoon.

TRC: If you could change something about yourself personal or professional, what would it be and why?

Cindy: Are you kidding? Weight and age. Give me less of both :o)

TRC: Who or what has been the biggest influence in your life and why?

Cindy: My mother. She taught me the value of decency and kindness and honesty. What more can you ask for?

TRC: Who is the first person you think about when you need someone to talk with and why?

Cindy: If it’s about life in general, it’s my hubby. If it’s about writing it’s Glenna McReynolds – aka Tara Janzen . If it’s for a girl’s gab session it’s my buddy Susan Connell or Leanne Banks of Carol Bryant

TRC: Would you please tell us what do you do in your free time?

Cindy: Still love to read and I’m an avid movie and TV buff. So excited about JUSTIFIED’s new season starting this month. Timothy Olyphant? Holy cow what a man.

TRC: What are the 5 things you would like to do that you haven’t done in your life?

Cindy: See Macu Pichu, go back to Italy, see Ireland, see Hawaii (nope, never been there), finish a book without feeling total, consuming panic.

TRC: On what are you currently working?

Cindy: THE WAY HOME – the bonus book in the One Eyed Jacks series that I spoke about earlier.

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Cindy: Just that I’m so happy to be here and so grateful to my readers and all the support they’ve given me over the years. Means everything.

LIGHTNING ROUND
Favorite Food – Chocolate, Cheetos, Pizza. Sorry. More than 1
Favorite Dessert – warm apple pie ala mode
Favorite TV Show – You guessed it. Justified
Last Movie you saw – The Rise of the Guardians (took the grand kids) LOVED IT)
Dark or Milk Chocolate – milk

TRC: Thank you Cindy for taking the time to answer our questions.  We wish you all the best and much success with the new One Eyed Jack series.

Cindy: Thank you so much. I really do appreciate it.

Giveaway-gold/purple

Cindy is offering a signed paper back copy of LAST MAN STANDING to ONE lucky member at The Reading Cafe.

Last Man Standing

1. You must be a member at The Reading Cafe. If you are not a member, please register using the log-in at the top of the page or by using one of the social log-ins.

2. Please leave a blog-post comment along with your email address.

3. Giveaway is open to US and CANADA only

4. Giveaway runs January 21-February 3, 2013

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GRAND PRIZE Blog Tour Giveaway

There is also a Grand Prize drawing of a $25.00 Gift Card (Amazon or B&N) and an autographed copy of KILLING TIME for one lucky winner that follows the tour and leaves a comment at every stop.

To enter the Grand Prize drawing CLICK HERE!

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Killing Time (One Eyed Jacks #1) by Cindy Gerard-a review

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KILLING TIME (One Eyed Jacks #1) by Cindy Gerard-a review

Killing Time

ABOUT THE BOOK:  Release Date-January 29, 2013

An exciting new series featuring Mike “Primetown” Brown, a character from her popular “Black Ops, Inc.” series.

For the seven years after Operation Slam Dunk went south, Mike Brown got drunk on each anniversary. The eighth year was no different–until he was drugged by a woman and woke up to her questions about what had happened eight years ago in Afghanistan.

CIA attorney Eva Salinas has her own theory behind what happened to Mike’s team–which included her husband–in Afghanistan eight years ago, and she’s determined to prove foul play. Though she doesn’t trust him, Mike is the only person she can turn to for help. Under an assumed name, Eva convinces Mike to assemble a new team and go after the traitor who screwed up both their lives. As they track down the rogue who started it all, Eva and Mike discover they can’t live without each other. But can they stay alive while an enemy is still on the loose?

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REVIEW: KILLING TIME (One Eyed Jacks #1) is the new spin-off series based on Cindy Gerard’s best selling Black-Ops Inc series focusing on the men of the Special Forces team known as One Eyed Jacks and fans of Cindy’s BOI series will not be disappointed.

Three members are all that remain of the infamous One Eyed Jacks Special Forces team from a mission that went horribly wrong eight years earlier and the team leader faces his demons and guilt everyday of his life. But when his past collides with his present, Mike knows that Eva Salinas will be the key to future.

Cindy revisits the fateful day with Mike and we are privy to his recounting of what happened but his recounting does not quite match the official report. As Mike and Eva dig deeper, they will discover that the entire mission was a set up and Mike’s team paid the ultimate price-only Mike should have been one of the casualties as well.

Killing Time is a fantastic start to Cindy Gerard’s new One Eyed Jack series. There is plenty of heart-pounding action, suspense, romance and a little sex to keep the reader sitting on the edge of their seat. With plenty of military lingo and soul- searching dialogue, Cindy brings the war in the Middle East back home and onto the pages of a wonderfully written and an amazingly detailed storyline and into our homes. I am a big fan of Cindy Gerard’s BOI series and she has continued her amazing storylines with her new One Eye Jacks series.

PRE-ORDER: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / The Book Depository

Copy supplied by the author.

Reviewed by Sandy

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Elizabeth Seckman-Interview and Giveaway with the Author

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Elizabeth Seckman-Interview and Giveaway with the Author

Elizabeth SeckmanABOUT THE AUTHOR: I am a former social worker, constant day dreamer, and mother of four fabulous boys. My first book, PAST DUE, is for sale from World Castle Publishing. It’s available online in E-Book and print.

I also have a house in desperate need of cleaning. No set date on completion.

FOLLOW Elizabeth on: Goodreads / Website / Twitter /

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Interview Seafoam

TRC: Hi Elizabeth and welcome to The Reading Café. Congratulations on the December release of HEALING SUMMER.

Elizabeth: Thanks for having me here! It really is my pleasure. I had some laundry to do, but this is waaaayyyy more fun!

TRC: Would you please tell us something about yourself?

Elizabeth: I’m the mother of four boys. I’m married my college sweetheart. And I used to be a social worker. That covers it all right?

TRC: Many authors develop their love of writing at an early age. What sparked your desire to write?

Elizabeth: Writing has always been my bliss. I was a late reader. It took me two years of kindergarten and half of my first grade year to learn! I remember getting the story “Heidi” for Christmas. I loved the cover and I WANTED to read that book so badly! I remember stumbling through it with my sister helping me. When I got done, I read it again. Then when I realized people made up those stories, I started writing my own. I used my mother’s “McCall’s” magazines for illustrations. They were some awesome reads.

TRC: What challenges or difficulties have you faced as a writer?

Elizabeth: Plain old insecurity. I don’t mind the hard work, but there is always that worry that the story won’t connect with the readers. I don’t fear rejection from editors, I fear being hated by readers!

Healing SummerTRC: HEALING SUMMER is the latest release in your contemporary romance series focusing on the three Coulter brothers. Would you please tell us about the premise?

ORDER LINKS: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / The Book Depository

Elizabeth: I started with the story of Jenna and Tres and it was only going to be one story. When I finished the final chapter with poor Craig licking his wounds in Montana…I felt like he had to have his say and his happy ending. Then when I finished “Healing Summer”, the youngest brother, Trip, seemed to be yelling in my ear, “Hey, what am I? Chopped liver?” So, he gets his story too.

TRC: If you could virtually cast the lead characters in your storylines which models or actors would best represent your ideal images?

Elizabeth: I’ve been fired from the job of casting director by my niece. In all honesty? I hardly ever watch TV and my knowledge of Hollywood is sorely lacking. Let me call Kari…be right back…Okay, Mollie will be played by Rachel Bilson and Craig will be played by Joe Manganiello.

TRC: Mmmmm Joe Manganiello!!

TRC: FATE INTENDED is the final book in the trilogy. Would you please tell us something about the premise?

Elizabeth: Since Trip is the youngest Coulter, he’s been at the brunt of big brothers’ shadows and attitudes. He needed a big story. So, Trip will leave his boring life and controlling girlfriend behind when he joins a group of shadow ops and starts dating a cute cleaning lady…who unfortunately is the daughter of a Russian . Oh, and she is on the lamb for murder. It’s complicated, but love often is.

TRC: Are any of the characters or premise of the storyline based on real people or situations in your life?

Elizabeth: Not really. Jenna is loosely based on my oldest sister in that she can’t cook and she is obsessive with her privacy.

TRC: If one of your characters could speak for themselves, what would they have to say?

Elizabeth: Barbara, the mother of the Coulter men, would say, “I just want my boys to be happy. After losing their father, the only thing that mattered to me was my sons. And I’m not turning them over to just any female.”

TRC: While writing or working on your storyline, have ideas or characters ever come to you in dreams?

Elizabeth: No. I hardly ever remember any dream. Have you ever dreamt about your storylines or leading characters? No, but I do plan plots as I wait for the sandman.

TRC: What have you learned writing this particular series?

Elizabeth: In “Healing Summer”, I had antelopes on the plains. The final editor caught the mistake and noted it. The publisher called to inform me that there are no antelope in Montana. I guess when you’re home on the range, it’s the deer and the pronghorn that play.

TRC: What are your thoughts on book reviews-good and/or bad?

Elizabeth: A good book review is priceless. And by good, I don’t necessarily mean glowing. Good reviewers know books. They understand literature and the elements of a story. They can pinpoint what works in a story and what doesn’t. These reviewers know how to express themselves without being snarky or taking personal jabs at writers. There is much to be learned from them. I pay close attention…it’s a great way to learn.

TRC: Many authors bounce ideas with other authors and friends. With whom do you bounce ideas?

Elizabeth: My best writer buddy and fellow World Castle author, Celeste Holloway, is my word lifeline. She is my moral support too. I had lost faith in “Past Due” after a measly eleven rejections and Celeste had to put a foot in my hiney. The story was headed for the trash and I was moving on, but she refused to let me give up.

TRC: What five things would you like to accomplish in the next ten years?

Elizabeth:
1. All my kids will be happily raised and on their own. (Wow! I’m a little depressed now.)
2. My house will be clean.
3. I will finally stop using the treadmill as a clothes hanger and do daily exercise.
4. My husband will finally take me on a honeymoon. (We’ve been married twenty years and we’re still trying to work this out!)
5. More books. Books that hopefully have a large following of loyal readers!

TRC: Is there a question that you would like to be asked in an interview, but nobody has asked? If so, ask away!

Elizabeth: “Elizabeth, would you like a cup of tea and some homemade cookies?” Most certainly!! How kind of you to ask.

TRC:  **Offers Elizabeth a cup of tea and some homemade chocolate chip cookies**

TRC: On what are you currently working?

Elizabeth: I am currently researching and polishing up the final book in the series, “Fate Intended”. I also have a historical romance I am polishing up and working on a new book I have been dying to get on paper and out of my head!

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Elizabeth: Thank you!

LIGHTNING ROUND
Favorite Food chocolate
Favorite Dessert strawberry shortcake
Favorite TV Show “Supernatural”
Favorite Movie “Gone with the Wind”
Last Movie you saw “The Hobbit”
Dark or Milk Chocolate Dark chocolate
Last Vacation Destination Outer Banks of North Carolina (Avon to be exact!)

TRC: Thank you Elizabeth for taking the time to answer our questions.  We wish you all the best.

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GIVEAWAY-WHITEwithblue

Elizabeth Seckman is offering a paper copy or ecopy of both of her novels PAST DUE and HEALING SUMMER to ONE lucky member at The Reading Cafe.

1. You must be a member at The Reading Cafe. If you are not a member, please register using the log-in at the top of the page or by using one of the social log-ins.

2. If you are using a social log-in such as Twitter or Facebook, please post your email address along with your comment as Twitter etc does not allow for contact information.

3. Giveaway is open to INTERNATIONALLY.

4. Giveaway runs from January 20 to 23, 2013

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