Monthly Archives: February 2018

The Reading Cafe 6th Anniversary Giveaway Celebration-Today’s Prize Package

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The Reading Cafe 6th Anniversary Celebration Giveaway-Today’s Prize Package

NOTE: All giveaways require a comment to qualify

The Reading Cafe is offering 2 book paper/print prize package for today’s giveaway

Please be aware some of the books offered may be ARC copies from the publisher which may or may not have gone through final edits or final cover copy

ONE (1) commenter will receive both books from The Reading Café

1. If you have not previously registered at The Reading Cafe, please register by using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social log-ins.

NOTE: If you are having difficulty commenting after logging onto the site, please refresh the page (at the top of your computer).

2. If you are using a social log-in, please post your email address with your comment.

3. Please tell us to enter you into the giveaway.

4. LIKE us on FACEBOOK and then click GET NOTIFICATION under ‘liked’ for an additional entry.

5. LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry.

6. Please FOLLOW us on GOODREADS for an additional entry.

7. Please follow The Reading Cafe on Tumblr

8. Giveaway open to USA only

9. Giveaway runs until February 17-28, 2018

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Constantine: A History Part 2 (Dark Kings) by Donna Grant-Review and Excerpt Tour

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Constantine: A History Part 2 (Dark Kings) by Donna Grant -Review and Excerpt Tour

CONSTANTINE: A History Part 2
Dark Kings Series
by Donna Grant
Genre: adult, paranormal, fantasy, dragon, romance
Release Date : February 19,2018

ebook only 99¢ Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / iBooks /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date February 19,2018

Constantine, King of Dragon Kings is an enigma. Extremely private, he keeps the details of his past secret. Now is your chance to get another glimpse into a certain time of his life – and the people he encounters that change him.

This is a short story involving Constantine from the New York Times bestselling Dark Kings series from Donna Grant

••••••••••

REVIEW: CONSTANTINE: A History Part 2 is the second short story focusing on the King of the Dragon Kings Constantine, in the Donna Grant’s Dark Kings series.

CONSTANTINE: A History Part 2 reveals how the Dragon Kings began their whiskey distillery in Scotland, and Con’s continuing relationship with a woman that is familiar but not, a woman who speaks philosophically and in circles as she warns Constantine of things to come.

Like Part 1, Part 2 stops at 77%, and the remaining 23% offers up an excerpt from Dark Alpha’s Claim-the author’s series focusing on the Reapers, and the woman known as Death. Once again, the premise is entertaining and engaging but mostly a tease. Constantine: A History Parts 1 and 2 reads like a serialized story line that teases the reader into wanting something more but revealing very little at a time.

Read Sandy’s review of CONSTANTINE: A History Part 1 below.

 

 Own a copy

Reviewed by Sandy

_____________

CONSTANTINE: A History Part 1
Dark Kings
by Donna Grant
Genre: adult, fantasy, paranormal
Release Date: September 12, 2017

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo /

Who is Constantine, King of Dragon Kings? It’s a question asked by many. Here is your chance to learn some of this enigmatic leader’s history – and get a unique look inside the Dragon Kings

 

••••••••••••••

REVIEW:  CONSTANTINE: A History Part 1 by Donna Grant is a short story that focuses on some of the history of Constantine, King of the Dragons, and how he met the woman we have come to know as Death. Although limited in any real background information the author may be leading the reader to believe that Con may have met his future in the guise of a wanderer who may not have been completely human.

The story line stops at 75% , and the remaining 25 % cover the first chapter of Dark Alpha’s Claim (Reaper Book 1) and some promotional information about the author’s series. The premise is interesting but leaves too many questions unanswered. CONSTANTINE is a tease; a quick look back at the King of Kings who struggles in a world that, is once again, threatening the dragons’ existence.

Own a copy

 

The 20th of April, human year 1746
DreaganI have tried. I truly have. Some might look back and say that I didn’t give it enough, but I will know the truth.
The simple fact is, the mortals have lost their bloody minds.
I knew it was a good idea to have a spy in the English parliament long before Culloden, and Keltan has done a fine job relaying information while keeping his true identity a secret. But learning that the English plan to pass The Dress Act in the next few months that would make wearing a tartan or kilt illegal leaves me flummoxed. And fuming.
Some of the Kings wish to use our magic to stop such idiocy, but we won’t. Just as we didn’t intervene or participate in Culloden or the many other battles before that—or the ones yet to come. We have chosen to live among—but apart from—the humans.
And for very good reason.
It is impossible to look at the mortals without disdain for their stupidity or respect for their accomplishments. Thankfully, the spell I cast prevents such deep emotions within the Kings in regards to the humans. Otherwise, I’m not sure even I could keep from eradicating them.
The years are a blur. They pass as quickly as sand through my fingers.
Worse yet, is that my brethren are terribly, enormously lonely. It’s an ache experienced by all. Each attempts to hide it, but it’s there in their gaze, in their words, and in the very things they do not say.
And, if I’m being honest, I’m lonely, too.
I will never admit it to anyone. It’s difficult enough to divulge it in this journal. It’s a secret I keep concealed, because if I let it show, if I concede that I feel such emotions, then it’s a weakness that can—and will—be used against me by our enemies.
The Fae Wars might be over, and we may be on friendly terms with the Light, but I know the Dark Fae will never give up in their quest to take over this realm. It’s a prime hunting ground for them. They will always be adversaries. And they’re patient enough to wait to strike at the best moment.
Then there’s Ulrik.
He wants to challenge me. Perhaps, he’ll win. Perhaps he won’t.
I try to prepare for all these things. I know they’re coming. It’s a feeling deep within me, like a warning bell. Just as I know that our power, our magic, will draw other enemies to us. Will we be ready?
We have to be. We’ve lost too much already. I will not allow anyone to take what we’ve fought so hard to maintain after everything we’ve given up.
I owe it to the other Kings to ensure that. And I will. Even if it means I forfeit my life. Because, in the end, I am merely one dragon. Any of the other Kings could take my place—even Ulrik. But they are the ones who are important. The dragons are gone from this realm, but the Dragon Kings must remain at all costs.Constantine, King of Golds
King of Dragon Kings


 

Donna Grant is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the sizzling Dark King series featuring dragons, immortal Highlanders, and the Fae.

She was born and raised in Texas but loves to travel. Her adventures have taken her throughout the United States as well as to Jamaica, Mexico, and Scotland. Growing up on the Texas/Louisiana border, Donna’s Cajun side of the family taught her the “spicy” side of life while her Texas roots gave her two-steppin’ and bareback riding.

Despite deadlines and voracious reading, Donna still manages to keep up with her two children, four cats, and one long haired Chihuahua.

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | NEWSLETTER SIGNUP / TUMBLR / PINTEREST / GOODREADS

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Approaching the Bench (Conflict of Interest #3) by Chantal Fernando-Review Tour

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APPROACHING THE BENCH (Conflict of Interest #3) by Chantal Fernando-review tour

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au / B&N / KOBO / ibooks /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date February 19,2018

A tenacious, resilient female judge must find a way to work with her carefree clerk as they find themselves in danger when a fugitive sets his sights on revenge in the third book in New York Times bestselling author Chantal Fernando’s sexy and thrilling Conflict of Interest Series.

Trinity Williams, known as “Medusa” for her stony expressions and unyielding reputation, constantly has her guard up—how else is the youngest female judge in the country supposed to survive in such a male-dominated profession? She made the decision long ago that laughter and a carefree attitude have no business in a courtroom and achieving her professional goals is the only thing she has left. It’s just her luck that her new law clerk, Callum Hopkins, believes the exact opposite.

Callum Hopkins thinks that nothing should ever be too serious in life—why can’t he mix business with pleasure? When he first starts working for his hot new boss, they clash at every turn. He makes it his mission to get Judge Williams to see things his way for once.

But when Callum finds himself in the wrong place at the wrong time as an escaped convict comes after Trinity, he realizes it’s not all fun and games anymore. Now in witness protection together until the authorities can catch the fugitive, this unlikely pair must learn to trust one another and work together to stay alive. Far away from the courtroom, Trinity and Callum are suddenly free to stop butting heads, and stop fighting the growing attraction between them.

••••••••••••

REVIEW: –APPROACHING THE BENCH is the third instalment in Chantal Fernando’s contemporary adult CONFLICT OF INTEREST erotic, romance legal novella series. This is thirty-one year old judge Trinity Williams, and twenty-five year old law clerk Callum Hopkins’ story line. APPROACHING THE BENCH can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary. Callum was first introduced in books one and two- Breaching the Contract and Seducing the Defendant.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Callum and Trinity) APPROACHING THE BENCH follows the forbidden relationship between Judge Trinity Williams, and her law clerk Callum Hopkins. Since her early career Trinity Williams has had a reputation as a cold and calculation person, something that does not go unnoticed by our story line hero but when a threatening letter lands on her desk, Trinity is willing to dismiss even if Callum suspects something more sinister is going on. An attempted kidnapping of Trinity Williams finds both Trinity and Callum in protective custody, where their attraction to one another will grow into something more. What ensues is the building relationship and romance between Callum and Trinity, and the potential fall out when their whereabouts are discovered threatening any semblance of peace and security that was slowly beginning to build.

The relationship between Callum and Trinity is one of forbidden attraction as Trinity is Callum’s boss, and workplace romances are frowned upon even in the legal system. Callum continues to push the boundaries of a working friendship as Trinity struggles to remain professional in the face of their growing attraction. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

We are introduced to Callum’s father Richard, his half-brother Justin, and best friend Eddie. The requisite evil is a familiar face to our story line heroine.

APPROACHING THE BENCH is a quick read; a reversal of power structure in that our heroine has all of the control at work while Callum has all of the control in the bedroom. The premise is entertaining; the romance is sexy and hot; the characters are energetic and inspiring.

Reading Order and Previous reviews
Breaching the Contract
Seducing the Defendant
Approaching the Bench
Leading the Witness (April 2018)

BREACHING THE CONTRACT: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / amazon.uk / Amazon.au
B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo /

SEDUCING THE DEFENDANT: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / Amazon.au /B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo / ibooks /

LEADING THE WITNESS: Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk / / Amazon.au / B&N / KOBO / ibooks /

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

New York Times, Amazon & USA Today Bestselling Author Chantal Fernando is thirty years old and lives in Western Australia.

Lover of all things romance, Chantal is the author of the best selling books Dragon’s Lair, Maybe This Time and many more.

When not reading, writing or daydreaming she can be found enjoying life with her three sons and family.

Chantal FerChantal loves to hear from readers.

Follow Chantal: Website/ Facebook/ Twitter/ Goodreads

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Gentleman Nine by Penelope Ward-Review Tour

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GENTLEMAN NINE by Penelope Ward-Review Tour

Kindle. com  / Amazon paper / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo / iBooks

ABOUT THE BOOK: February 19, 2018

Growing up, the three of us were friends.
He was the nerd.
I was the playboy.
She was the beauty.

Deep down, I only ever wanted her. I kept it inside because Rory and I made a pact that our friend, Amber, was off-limits.

He lied.

I went off to college, and he got the girl.
Amber never knew how I felt.
They were together for years—before he broke her heart.

Through it all and across the miles, she and I casually stayed in touch.
When my job sent me to Boston for a three-month contract position, Amber let me stay in her spare room.

Still reeling from her breakup, she’d sworn off men.
One night, I opened her computer to find the shock of my life. She’d hesitantly contacted a male escort company. Afraid to date and get her heart broken again, she was looking for sex with no strings.

Every emotion imaginable ran through me: protectiveness, jealousy—curiosity.
Amber had chosen Gentleman Number Nine and sent him a message.
She opened up to him, confessing, among other things, her physical attraction to her friend—me. But she considered me off-limits—and she thought I was a manwhore. (Ironic, considering the circumstances.)

Eventually, she set up a date to meet Gentleman Nine at a hotel.
When she showed up several nights later to meet him, she was stunned to see me standing there—with an offer I hoped she wouldn’t refuse

•••••

REVIEW: GENTLEMAN NINE by Penelope Ward is a stand alone, contemporary, adult, erotic, romance story line focusing on three friends: Channing Lord, Amber Walton, and Rory Calhoun.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Amber and Channing) with a chapter from Rory GENTLEMAN NINE follows the friends to lovers relationship between twenty five year old part time grade school teacher Amber Walton, and twenty seven year old Channing Lord. Three months earlier Amber’s life imploded when her boyfriend of nine years, Rory Calhoun, walked away saying he needed to explore other options. Three months will pass as Amber struggles to make sense of her life when their mutual friend Channing Lord calls looking for a place to stay while in town for a contracted business arrangement, and Amber’s B&B is available for rent. What ensues is the building romance between Amber and Channing, and the potential fall-out when Rory comes looking for a second chance.

Nine years earlier, Channing and Rory made a pact not to pursue a relationship with Amber, their friend (Channing’s younger sister Lainey’s best friend) and the woman they both equally loved but Channing went off to university, only to return to discover his best friends had fallen in love leaving our hero the awkward third party in their one-time close-knit friendship. Fast forward to present day Channing discovers that the girl he secretly loves is about to hire an escort to ‘sate’ her sexual needs. Not one to stand back and lose the woman he loves a second time, our hero offers Amber a ‘friends with benefits’ relationship that will turn into something more.

The relationship between Amber and Channing is one of friends to lovers, a second chance of sorts between two people who have loved one another most of their lives but circumstance and betrayal found Amber falling in love with someone else. Their friends with benefits agreement and rules are eventually thrown caution to the wind as love becomes the overarching theme that will be threatened by Rory’s attempts to win back the woman he still loves. The $ex scenes are intimate, passionate and seductive but, once again, I take offense to a certain four-letter word that holds no place in a romance story line.

We are introduced to Amber’s best friend Annabelle, and Milo, a young autistic man who loves to smell all newcomer’s hair, as well as Channing’s ex-girlfriend Emily, his ailing mother Christine, Rory’s neighbour Boris, and Boris’s daughter Stephanie.

GENTLEMAN NINE is an emotional and sometimes heart breaking story line that treads dangerously close to love-triangle territory, if not, crossing over for several chapters, which, not being a fan of the three sided romance-ever- amped up my anxiety exponentially. The premise is creative and moving; the characters are determined and passionate; the romance is provocative and intense.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Penelope Ward is a New York Times, USA Today and Wall Street Journal Bestselling author. She grew up in Boston with five older brothers and spent most of her twenties as a television news anchor, before switching to a more family-friendly career. She is the proud mother of a beautiful 11-year-old girl with autism and a 9-year-old boy. Penelope and her family reside in Rhode Island.

Facebook | Website | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest | Goodreads | Private Fan Group

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The Schemer / The Negotiator by Avery Flynn- reviews

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THE SCHEMER / The Negotiator (Harbor City #1 & 3) by Avery Flynn-reviews

 

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date February 5 ,2018

Tyler Jacobson has a plan for everything—except how to handle his completely annoying, utterly frustrating, and totally sexy upstairs neighbor. He couldn’t care less if Everly Ribinski thinks he’s equally irritating—until he discovers she’s the only one who can help him land a business deal that will finally make him feel like he’s more than just a guy from the wrong side of the tracks.

Color him shocked when Everly refuses to help, insisting she should have run him over in the parking garage when she had the chance. Harsh. But possibly deserved. Tyler may have spent the last few months reveling in annoying the fiery gallery owner with a dark past, but he’s got secret leverage she can’t refuse.

If only one meeting didn’t turn into a fake date that turned into more. Way more. Like naked and hot as hell more.

The last thing either of them wants is to catch feelings for someone who is so obviously not their type. Good thing that will never happen. Right?

•••••••••

REVIEW: THE SCHEMER is the third instalment in Avery Flynn’s contemporary, adult HARBOR CITY romance series. This is real estate developer Tyler Jacobson, and art curator Everly Ribinski’s story line. THE SCHEMER can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary. Tyler Jacobson is the one-time best friend and nemesis of Sawyer Carlyle-THE NEGOTIATOR.

Told from several third person perspectives including Tyler and Everly THE SCHEMER follows the acrimonious relationship between real-estate developer Tyler Jacobson, and art curator Everly Ribinski. Everly has just moved into an upscale apartment to be closer to her beloved grandmother- Nunni-a woman suffering from age on-set dementia; and within steps of her up and coming Black Heart Art Gallery. Meeting Tyler Jacobson, a fellow tenant, finds our heroine on the receiving end of a seduction she had never intended to carry through. What ensues is the back and forth, one on one, face to face confrontations that pull together two people from the wrong side of town who have made it big in the world of high finance, art and real estate development; and the potential fall out as Tyler struggles with the connections to his past, and the social class where he feels he no longer belongs.

Throughout the story line the reader becomes a little more familiar with the fall-out between Tyler Jacobson and Sawyer Carlyle as Tyler’s ex-fiance renews a smear campaign against the man she destroyed years before. Everly refuses to allow Irena to continue her attacks against the man with whom she (Everly) is falling in love but sometimes remaining calm is the best defense against an embittered offense. Tyler carries a self-imposed burden and chip on his shoulder that tends to control everything in his life.

Everly and Tyler’s relationship is a series of sexually palpable confrontations; a one-upmanship of he said/she said sarcastic comments, grounded in a mutual attraction that is pushed ahead by a well-meaning but manipulating woman who wishes to see all of her children find their happily ever after. The $ex scenes are intimate, seductive, passionate and intense without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

There is a side story developing between socialite Helene Carlyle (Tyler and Hudson’s mother) and Italian hotel magnate Alberto Ferranti. Helene never expected to find another love following the death of her beloved husband Michael but meeting Alberto Ferranti stirred something within the Carlyle matriarch-something she long thought buried and gone.

We are introduced to Everly’s best friend and caterer Kiki; Tyler’s ex-fiance Irena; and Alberto’s son Carlo Ferranti. I have not had the chance to read Hudson’s story (The Charmer book two) but I am looking forward to, one day, catching up with Sawyer’s brother.

THE SCHEMER is an intoxicating tale of as one man struggles to move on from his past, and one woman battles between her head and her heart. The premise is playful and edgy; the characters are colorful and impulsive; the romance is spirited and determined.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

_________________

THE NEGOTIATOR
(Harbor City #1)
by Avery Flynn
Genre: adult, contemporary, romance
Release Dat : April 24, 2017

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo /

About the book: Release Date April 24, 2017

Wanted: Personal Buffer

Often snarly, workaholic executive seeks “buffer” from annoying outside distractions AKA people. Free spirits with personal boundary issues, excessive quirks, or general squeamishness need not apply. Salary negotiable. Confidentiality required.

Workaholic billionaire Sawyer Carlyle may have joked he needed a “buffer” from their marriage-obsessed mom, but he didn’t need a waiting room filled with “candidates” to further distract him. (Thanks, bro.) But when a sexy job applicant shoos his mom and the socialite in tow out of his office, Sawyer sees the genius of the plan. And the woman. In fact, Miss Clover Lee might just get the fastest promotion in history, from buffer to fake fiancé…

This “free-spirit” might look like hot sunshine and lickable rainbows, but she negotiates like a pitbull. Before Sawyer knows what hit him, he’s agreed to give up Friday nights for reality TV, his Saturdays for flea markets (why buy junk still baffles him), his Tuesdays and Thursdays for “date nights” (aka panty-losing opportunities if he plays his cards right). And now she wants lavender bath salts and tulips delivered every Monday?

Yup, she’s just screwing with him. Good thing she’s got this non-negotiable six-weeks-and-she’s-gone rule or Sawyer may have just met his match…

•••••••••••

REVIEW:  THE NEGOTIATOR is the first instalment in Avery Flynn’s contemporary, adult HARBOR CITY romance series. This is international construction billionaire Sawyer Carlyle, and ‘free spirit’ Jane ‘Clover’ Lee’s story line.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Clover and Sawyer) THE NEGOTIATOR is a fake fiancé trope that follows the building relationship between billionaire Sawyer Carlyle, and Clover Lee. Needing a ‘buffer’ between his mother and the copious number of single, available women Sawyer Carlyle finds himself ‘interviewing’ the least likely buffer he could have ever imagined. Enter feisty, take charge, free spirit Clover Lee, and the woman with whom he would fall in love. What ensues is the fake fiancé relationship that grows into something more, and the potential fall-out as Sawyer makes Clover an offer she refuses to accept.

Clover Lee is a bit of a ‘free spirit’ who likes to travel, never staying in one place too long, and a woman determined never to settle down. Meeting Sawyer Carlyle sees Clover take a step back from her preconceived notions about falling in love, and settling down but Sawyer’s reasons for making their arrangement permanent are not fraught from love but from a more sterile sense of obligation.

The relationship between Carlyle and Clover is a fake-fiance contract written out on a diner napkin. Carlyle never had plans to fall in love but meeting Clover Lee finds our hero looking forward to everything-one outing at a time. The $ex scenes are intimate, seductive and intense, without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

We are introduced to Sawyer’s brother Hudson Carlyle, and their mother Helene; and Sawyer’s one-time best friend and nemesis Tyler Jacobson; Clover’s roommate and best friend Daphne, as well as Clover’s parents Laura and Phillip Lee.

THE NEGOTIATOR has a little bit of everything: humor, fun, romance, love, heartbreak and a happily ever after. The premise is sexy and inviting; the characters are energetic and dynamic; the romance is passionate.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy 

USA Today bestselling romance author Avery Flynn has three slightly-wild children, loves a hockey-addicted husband and is desperately hoping someone invents the coffee IV drip.

She fell in love with romance while reading Johanna Lindsey’s Mallory books. It wasn’t long before Avery had read through all the romance offerings at her local library. Needing a romance fix, she turned to Harlequin’s four books a month home delivery service to ease the withdrawal symptoms. That worked for a short time, but it wasn’t long before the local book stores’ staffs knew her by name.

Avery was a reader before she was a writer and hopes to always be both. She loves to write about smartass alpha heroes who are as good with a quip as they are with their *ahem* other God-given talents. Her heroines are feisty, fierce and fantastic. Brainy and brave, these ladies know how to stand on their own two feet and knock the bad guys off theirs.

Find out more about Avery on her website, follow her on Twitter and Pinterest, like her on her Facebook page or friend her on her Facebook profile. She’s also on Goodreads and BookLikes.

Join her street team, The Flynnbots, and receive special sneak peeks, prizes and early access to her latest releases!

Also, if you figure out how to send Oreos through the Internet, she’ll be your best friend for life.

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The Reading Cafe 6th Anniversary Giveaway Celebration-Today’s Prize Package

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The Reading Cafe 6th Anniversary Celebration Giveaway-Today’s Prize Package

NOTE: All giveaways require a comment to qualify

The Reading Cafe is offering a 3 paper/print book prize package for today’s giveaway

Please be aware some of the books offered may be ARC copies from the publisher which may or may not have gone through final edits or final cover copy

ONE (1) commenter will receive all 3 books from The Reading Café

1. If you have not previously registered at The Reading Cafe, please register by using the log-in at the top of the page (side bar) or by using one of the social log-ins.

NOTE: If you are having difficulty commenting after logging onto the site, please refresh the page (at the top of your computer).

2. If you are using a social log-in, please post your email address with your comment.

3. Please tell us to enter you into the giveaway.

4. LIKE us on FACEBOOK and then click GET NOTIFICATION under ‘liked’ for an additional entry.

5. LIKE us on Twitter for an additional entry.

6. Please FOLLOW us on GOODREADS for an additional entry.

7. Please follow The Reading Cafe on Tumblr

8. Giveaway open to USA only

9. Giveaway runs until February 18-28, 2018

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Highlander Entangled (Highland Adventure #9) by Vonda Sinclair-Review, Guest Post & Giveaway

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Highlander Entangled (Highland Adventure #9) by Vonda Sinclair- Review, Guest Post & Giveaway

HIGHLANDER ENTANGLED
Highland Adventure #9
by Vonda Sinclair
Release Date: December 8,2017
Genre: adult, historical, Highland, romance

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo / iTunes / / Audio /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date December 8,2017

Lady Kristina MacQueen suffered devastating injuries at the hands of a ruthless Highland chief, Blackburn MacCromar. Two years later, he kidnaps her for a journey across the chilly, windblown Scottish Highlands to flush out her sister, Anna—the woman Blackburn forced to wed him. Red Holme, Blackburn’s second-in-command, is equally brutal and determined to possess Kristina.

A Highland warrior and future chief, Colin Cameron has no intention of becoming entangled in the whims of another highborn lady. However, upon witnessing Lady Kristina being held hostage by the enemy, a knife to her throat, he resolves to rescue her and bring her to safety. When R

ed Holme sees Colin Cameron, he recognizes his enemy from a decade earlier and craves revenge even more than he lusts for the lady. But he is determined to have both.

Colin is the most charismatic and heroic man Kristina has ever met, and he awakens her woman’s instincts. He might be her only chance to experience a brief moment of passion. Even so, she holds no illusions about marriage, for no worthy man will find her blindness and scars appealing, or see them as beneficial traits in a wife. But she can’t see how he looks at her. Though Colin has sworn to never fall in love again, he cannot defend his heart against the strong, spirited and lovely lass who is like none other he has ever met.

••••••••••

REVIEW: 5 out of 5 for this reader folks!

FANTASTIC BOOK! I have not read any of the other books in this series, but I am very eager to dive in and perhaps get some back stories on other characters. I did not feel this took away from any enjoyment I had reading this story, it was very easy to follow.

Highlander Entangled by Vonda Sinclair is the ninth book in the “Highland Adventure” series and let me say one thing … ADVENTURE is the perfect word they could of used. A highland historical romance, you will find yourself completely immersed into the past, where men were gruff, unapologetic, prideful, egotistical, full of revenge, passionate and so much more, and the ladies made sure they have met their match. The side of sexy love completely sold me and solidified my “must read more” attitude for this author.

Lady Kristina McQueen is our leading lady and I completely adore her. She is the kind of character you will be all in with, and your heart will break a hundred times, but you deep down will know she will make it through. She is carrying many scars, both emotional and physical and this has left her blind. She is kidnapped by the man who gave her her scars to try and get to her sister. Kristina possess a strength that I am uncertain many woman can achieve in that time and under these circumstances. She is resigned to what she has been dealt with in life, and believes she is fated to live tortured and lonely. Her attitude isn’t woo is me however, she threw no pity party. She has mourned what she has gone through, but it hasn’t completely consumed her and when her leading man comes into the picture, she doesnt recognize him as her partner, but as a strength she can draw from.

Colin Cameron is the future chief of his clan, and a fierce enemy of the men that have kidnapped Kristina. When he sees her kidnapped he does right by her and gets involved. He saves Kristina from more than physical harm, he saves her from a future of loneliness. Colin is the real deal. He is a good man, cares strongly but is no pushover. He is enchanted by this woman that has crossed his path and while there are certain attributes that a chiefs wife must possess, he doesn’t seem to give two cares about it. He is protective and loving of Kristina, and she openly embraces this caring and love and finds herself returning it.

This book is full of adventure and emotion. You will feel like you have been on the most intense roller coaster ride of your life, and I as an emotional read love that! Vonda is an excellent historical romance author and I say this because she writes vivid images and makes me feel like you have been thrown back in time, living this story with the characters.

I am very interested in reading more from Vonda, and certainly am going to go back and snag this series. I am completely impressed and really looking forward to more!

HAPPY READING! 🙂

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Rachel T.

Researching on Location in Scotland
By Vonda Sinclair

There’s nothing I like better than exploring castle ruins in the remote areas of Scotland. On one such research trip, I drove 25+ miles beyond Glenfinnan with my friends to visit Castle Tioram. We passed through sparsely populated, wild areas with amazing scenic beauty, and drove along narrow winding roads, most of them single track. There were a few houses, crofts, and tiny villages or communities here and there. The drive took twice as long as it should have because we had to stop several times along the way for photo ops. We passed lochs, mountains, and old bridges. We could’ve seen the Jacobite steam train (aka “Hogwarts Express”) if we’d been willing to linger in a certain spot long enough. We didn’t, but we did see the train the next day as it passed over the Glenfinnan Viaduct.
We wanted to get to Castle Tioram (pronounced Cheeram) as quickly as possible. This is a privately owned castle in a dangerously ruinous state. It was unsafe for us to go inside because of the hazards of possible falling stones from the masonry. But what a spectacular location! The castle sits on a small island called Eilean Tioram (meaning ‘the dry island’ in Gaelic) in Loch Moidart near where the River Shiel empties into it.
I had craved visiting this castle for years, from the first time I saw a photo of it online. It had always captured my imagination. I wanted to use it in a story but was unsure how until I started writing My Captive Highlander.

When I was writing a shipwreck (or technically a galley wreck) scene for the story, I thought, okay, where could the hero’s galley crash during the storm and where could he be taken hostage and tossed into the dungeon? It needed to be on the west coast of Scotland somewhere between Inveraray and Isle of Skye. I decided that even though my castle would have a fictitious name, Bearach Castle, I would base it on Castle Tioram, a MacDonald stronghold back through history. And the heroine would be a MacDonald—the chief’s sister. About twenty years earlier in actual history, the hero’s clan, the MacKenzies, had experienced a conflict and a battle with these MacDonalds. Perfect for drama, conflict and action.

I’ve since set two more books there including Highlander Unbroken and, my newest, Highlander Entangled. Highlander Unbroken features the new chief of the MacDonald clan, Neacal, while Highlander Entangled features his friend and foster brother, Colin Cameron, as the hero. All three stories are stand-alone but are linked.
Castle Tioram occupies a place, near the River Shiel, which was strategic for Scotland’s defense centuries ago, because it allowed easy travel by boat toward the Great Glen and the center of Scotland, along Loch Shiel and other inland lochs. Even during the Iron Age, long before the current castle, this site was important. Artifacts from the time have been found. There is also much evidence of Vikings’ presence in the area during medieval times. The beaches around the island would’ve been ideal for sheltering galleys, ships and other boats.

Even though I couldn’t explore the inside of the castle, I walked almost all the way around it. In some areas I was close enough to touch it, but in other areas I had to climb rocks or walk along the sea loch’s shore and view it from a distance. It was a nice, sunny day and I took several hundred photos. Because I was able to explore the rough and rocky terrain around the castle, I could accurately describe it in many of my books’ scenes, including battle scenes. I absolutely love to bring the readers fully into my scenes and make them feel a part of the story.

Vonda Sinclair writes wildly romantic Highland adventures about brave Highland warriors and their unconventional ladies. She takes readers back through the mists of time into a different world—17th century Scotland.

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Vonda Sinclair is the USA Today bestselling author of award-winning Scottish historical romance novels and novellas. Her favorite pastime is exploring Scotland and taking photos along the way. She especially loves ancient castle ruins! She also enjoys writing about hot Highland heroes, unconventional ladies and the healing power of love. Her series are the Highland Adventure Series and the Scottish Treasure Series. Her books have won the National Readers’ Choice Award, the CRW Award of Excellence, the Winter Rose Award of Excellence in Published Romantic Fiction–1st Place Historical, and an EPIC Award. She lives in the mountains of North Carolina where she is crafting another adventurous, wildly romantic Scottish story. Please visit her website at www.vondasinclair.com

Vonda Sinclair is graciously offering a paper copy of MY CAPTIVE HIGHLANDER to ONE lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

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The Goddess by M.A. Abraham – Review & Anniversary Giveaway

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The Goddess by M.A. Abraham – Review & Anniversary Giveaway

 

NOTE: All giveaways require a comment to qualify

M.A. Abraham is graciously offering a Kindle to one commenter, and an e-copy of The Goddess to two (2) lucky commenters

There will be THREE (3) winners: a Kindle e-reader to one commenter, and an e-copy of The Goddess to two (2) lucky commenters

Kindle Giveaway open to USA only.

E-copy of The Goddess is open internationally

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Description:
Chania has lived most of her life in seclusion. She was placed amongst the humans that had once come to the aid of her ancestors, many millenniums before. She kept secreted by the head priestess, and revered as a Goddess by the people. She knows she is not what they think she is. She is an Elven Princess in hiding, and content to stay that way.

Daeron is an Elven/Dragon shapeshifter, who has served as second in command of the Guardians of the Elven Empire for a long time. He comes from a long line of Kings, and has proven himself worthy of his position of life. He is a proud, noble, Golden Dragon, when he is not an Elf. He is not so pleased with the sudden match making ambitions of his leader though, especially when he has been singled out to be mated with one of the leader’s daughters. He is not about to give in without a fight. He will not be used in this manner, not by anyone.

Captured by her father’s guardians and forced to his side, Chania, learns her fate. She is no happier about their upcoming nuptials than Daeron. They recognize the Life Bond they share, but under the circumstances, refuse to allow it to dictate their future. Can they fight an attraction that no Elf has ever been able to deny?

 

Review:

The Goddess by M.A. Abraham is the 1st book in her new Guardians of the Empire.  I have read every book by M.A. Abraham, and I continued to be amazed how her stories continue to get better and better, not to mention her wonderful imagination.  I am happy to say that The Goddess is the start of another great series that takes place in the same world, but of course a different time and characters .

The Goddess is set thousands years past the finale of the Elven Chronicles.  When that series ended, all surviving humans were granted a land called The Valley, where they were able to live prosperous and in peace.   Over the years, these humans did not remember the Elves, who were hidden and unseen in their portal.  

Chania, our heroine, is the goddess, but she is also an oracle and a white dragon.  Chania is still young, and learning; but she does have visions and sees a war on the horizon.  Chania lives in the Valley (human territory) that is led by Britallia (High Priestess), who also has visions.  She protects Chania, who loves to shift to her white dragon.  One day she goes too far, and is caught by Gold Dragons, who will bring her home to the land of her father, where she will see her mother and sister, Serena again.  Seems her mother took the girls years before, because her lifemate, King Gerolth was acting like a dictator.  Now all three have returned, and the King is happy to have them back.  But the Gold Dragons are determined to keep an eye on the wild escapades of the girls.

Chania knows that with the war coming soon, she needs to return to the human world to help them fight off the enemy.  She makes plans with Serena to be prepared to escape within the next month or so.  But Daeron,a leader of the Gold Dragons, and who is a loner and arrogant, knows she is his lifemate and is determined to take her at any cost.  Chania feels the attraction and bond to Daeron, but he has  been possessive and domineering,  not like a  lifemate should be treated as an equal.  Her father, and his brother try to reason with Daeron and his dragon, but he only gets angry at them all, until Chania and Serena finally escape, with Serena going to the Elves for help.

We meet the new General of the Elven Army, Gabriella, who is an Eagle Claw and a descendant of Gabriel. She is a powerful and fierce warrior, who will take charge of the mission to help the humans, working closely with Britallia, and her warrior brothers, as well as Chania.

What follows is an exciting and wonderful adventure, where we will follow three of the most powerful women, and their great warriors/dragons to fight an enemy that has thousands of warriors more than they do.  But it was wonderful to see all the weapons the Elves will bring in: dragons, birds, sword wielding warriors,  thatchers; all the things we remember so well from the Elven Chronicles.  

I do not want to say too much more, as you need to read this book, and meet all the fascinating characters Abraham has created for us to savior.  I loved Gabriella, Britallia and Chania.  For a bit, I was not a fan of Daeron, but closer to the end, changed for the better.  The Goddess was an entertaining, fun, exciting, suspenseful, lifemate romance, and a wonderfuj cast of characters.  I for one I cannot wait to see what comes next.  The Goddess by M.A. Abraham was a super start to this new series, which you should read.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy supplied for Review

 

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