Monthly Archives: May 2018

Broken Wide (Mindjack #6: Zeph #3) by Susan Kaye Quinn-a review

Posted on by
11

BROKEN WIDE (Mindjack #6: Zeph #3) by Susan Kaye Quinn-a review

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 16, 2018

All he wanted was peace; all he had was hope.
Zeph had spent half his life hiding what he was—keeping his mindjack powers away from dangerous men and running away from everyone he loved to keep them safe. Now that his life is finally coming together—his mom and sister are safe; the girl he loves in his arms—the world is falling apart. The mindreader backlash against jackers is growing daily. Jacker-bigot politicians are stoking fear and gaining power. And jackers on the Fronter’s Purity list are winding up dead on the streets outside Jackertown.

Even the Jacker Freedom Alliance is tearing itself apart.

All Zeph wants is a chance to build a life with Tessa—but even she is losing faith. If there’s no peace between jackers and readers, what future could they have? Then a protest goes terribly wrong, the president starts talk of a Jackertown siege, and a MINDWARE CEO races to develop a dangerous mind-blasting technology. It seems foolish to even hope for peace, but one thing becomes very clear—the only way to put the world back together is to bring down the powerful people breaking it apart.

The conclusion to the bestselling Mindjack: Zeph series, where daring to hope for peace could be the most radical—and dangerous—move of all.

•••••••••••

REVIEW: BROKEN WIDE is the sixth full-length instalment in Susan Kaye Quinn’s young adult (YA) MINDJACK urban fantasy, sci-fi, dystopian series, and the third and final instalment focusing on Zephyr ‘Zeph’ MacCay-a young man with the ability to lock down, lock out, unlock and scramble the human mind.

SOME BACKGROUND: In a world where mindreading is the norm (due to decades of contaminated or purposely poisoned water) there are those with more powerful abilities than most. These are their stories of discrimination, betrayal, retribution and control. Throughout the years the human population has developed various forms of mind-reading, mind altering and mind controlling abilities due to environmental toxins. And to complicate matters those without the ability to mindjack are purposely setting out to bring war between the have and the have-nots fearing for their own peace of mind.

Told from first person point of view (Zeph) BROKEN WIDE continues to focus on Zeph, and his underground group of mind ‘readers’, and mind ‘jackers’ as they struggle to prevent anti-jacker technology destroying them all. Zephyr MacCay, blessed with powerful abilities beyond anyone’s comprehension finds himself imprisoned by warring government factions whose primary goal is to eradicate the mind jackers, and everyone they love. From the proverbial frying pan into the fire Zephyr must ‘sell’ himself to the man in charge but not before placing a plan into motion to reveal the truth about what happened and what is about to go down.

BROKEN WIDE is an infinitely detailed, well-written, extensive look at discrimination at the highest levels. From ‘fake news’ to autocratic and authoritarian government leaders BROKEN WIDE reveals the fight for power and the destruction of the mind as greed, authority and the right to control are at the center of a decades old scientific disaster that has led to the bigotry, hatred and injustice for all. Susan Kaye Quinn pulls the reader into a potential future marred by secrets, lies and inexcusable experiments resulting in a world determined to destroy itself one mind at a time.

Reading Order and previous reviews
Mind Games (Mindjack Origins 1)
Open Minds
Closed Hearts
Free Souls
The Locksmith
The Handler/ The Scribe (Mindjack Origins 2 & 3)
Keeper (Mindjack Origins 4)
Locked Tight
Cracked Open
Broken Wide

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Share

Forbidden (House of Sin #1) by Elisabeth Naughton-a review

Posted on by
13

FORBIDDEN (House of Sin #1) by Elisabeth Naughton-a review

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 24, 2018

She has no idea what lurks behind the forbidden doors of the House of Sin…

He is temptation. Forbidden fruit. A craving I can’t seem to resist.

I went after him in search of answers, certain he had blood on his hands. Now I’ve fallen prey to his seductive looks and commanding charisma.

I know he is a threat. He’s entwined in a dangerous world I don’t understand. But even that doesn’t stop me from aching for his touch, for the taste of his wicked lips.

Before I can truly surrender to the fire smoldering between us, I need to know more. I have to see behind the doors he keeps firmly locked.

I need to discover what he’s hiding in the shadowy world known as the House of Sin…

**WARNING!**
This book is very sexy, very dark, and very addictive! Features a mysterious hero with a dangerous secret. This is a big story that can’t be told in only one book so there is a cliffhanger – but never fear, book two releases three weeks later. The release schedule is as follows:

Books in the House of Sin Series:
FORBIDDEN — Book 1 — April 24, 2018
DECEIVED — Book 2 — May 15, 2018
UNDONE — Book 3 – June 5, 2018

•••••••••

REVIEW: FORBIDDEN is the first instalment in Elisabeth Naughton’s contemporary, adult HOUSE OF SIN dark, erotic, romantic suspense series focusing on twenty-four year old, American Natalie James, and thirty-two year old Italian businessman Luciano Salvatici’s story line.

NOTE: Due to the story line content, there may be some triggers for more sensitive readers.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Luc and Natalie) FORBIDDEN is a dark, erotic romance story line that follows the building but contemptuous relationship between Luc Salvatici and Natalie James. Natalie James have never been to New York but a interview with the House of Salvatici and its fashion magazine COVET meant Natalie would have access to everything her best friend Elena had so cryptically mentioned in the weeks before her sudden death. Meeting Luciano Salvatici (aka the beast) found our heroine unwittingly drawn to the dark and mysterious CEO, a man whose instant dislike for Natalie disguised an urgency to protect her from the monsters within. What ensues is the acrimonious but highly sexual relationship between Luc and Natalie, and the fall-out as the Salvatici family history demands payment and submission from all those who dare to seek the truth.

FORBIDDEN is a story that covertly and slowly reveals a dark and dangerous family secret going back hundreds of years that continues go grow in strength to the present day. The blackened, sexual nature of the family history threatens all those who dare the cross their paths, including our heroine who has inadvertently stumbled down the rabbit hole into a world that is about to destroy her life. Warned numerous times not to tread outside of the lines, our heroine’s constant need to prove she was beyond the reach of mere, mortal men finds herself in the line of fire, threatening her very existence and the heart she lost to Luciano Salvatici.

Elisabeth Naughton pulls the reader into a shadow society that plays by its own rules; a family so deeply immersed into domination, power and control their own son struggles to move on from the past. The premise is dark, dramatic, erotic and intriguing; the characters are colorful, charismatic, and astonishing; the romance is fated, passionate and tragic. FORBIDDEN is a familiar story line but a story line I am desperate to see follow through.

Copy supplied for review by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

Share

The Derbfine Series 1-3 by Ashley York-Series Review & Giveaway

Posted on by
23

The Derbfine Series 1-3 by Ashley York-a series review and giveaway

CURSE OF THE HEALER
The Derbfine Series #1
by Ashley York
Release Date: March 31, 2017
Genre: adult, historical, medieval, romance

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: After the death of Brian Boru in 1014, a legend arose of a healer so great she could raise a man from the dead, with a power so strong it could make any warrior the next high king of Éire…and to steal it away from her, he need only possess her.

Fated to be a healer…

Aednat has spent her entire life training to be the great healer, knowing she must remain alone. When she meets Diarmuid, the intense attraction she feels toward him shakes her resolve to believe in such a legend. If she gives in to the passion he ignites in her, can she settle for being less?

Destined to be his…

Diarmuid of Clonascra is renowned for his bravery in battle. Only one thing daunts him: the prospect of taking a wife. The safest course would be to keep his distance from Aednat, the bold, headstrong healer who’s far too tempting for his peace of mind. But his overking orders him to protect her from a group of craven warriors intent on kidnapping her to steal her power.

What starts as duty for Diarmuid quickly transforms into something more. Aednat’s power might be at risk, but so is his closed-off heart

••••••••••••

REVIEW: Curse of the Healer is book one of the Derbfine series. This is the story of Aednat and Diarmuid. The story begins in Clan Meic Lochlainn, Eire 1095.

This story is very well written with lots of action and building romance. Aednat is a wonderfully kind and lovely woman who has been told all her life that her club foot would make her undesirable to all men. Her won grandfather had her thrown out as an outcast, where she and her grandmother and others had to hide in a cave to survive. She’s settled herself on a life of being a healer for her clan now under the direction of her cousin Sean, the over-king of smaller territories.
Dairmuid is a king of a small area and one of Sean’s dearest friends. He’s come to Sean’s home at his request for a meeting of several of the larger clans, the reason a bit vague to him.

Author Ashley York has entwined misunderstanding of motives and insecurities well, in the meeting of the main characters, making their chemistry a very interesting mix.

An old myth has been spread around that says if a warrior takes the maidenhead of a great healer, her power will become his, making him a great king. This leads a band of horrible men led by an aging and unscrupulous ragtag king to hunt down healer women. Sean is afraid for Aednat, as her reputation as a great healer has spread. During an attack during the meeting, he asks Diarmuid to protect her by taking her away to safety. Failing to lose the followers, Sean asks Dairmuid to take her to wife as protection against this group.

This sets up the romance and building love and understanding of the two. This tale is well plotted and told with loving care of traditions of the times. I found it entertaining and exciting, well worth the read. I’m looking forward to the next installments.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Georgianna S

_____________

EYES OF THE SEER
The Derbfine Series #2
by Ashley York
Release Date: July 31, 2017
Genre: adult, historical, medieval, romance

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: In ancient Ireland, men and women take to the legends for answers. Different-colored eyes are the mark of a Seer, it is said, and those who can see the future are in league with the devil. They cannot be suffered to live.

He wishes to prove himself…

Marcán of Clonascra bears the bloodline of Brian Boru, the legendary high king, and his prowess as a warrior has earned him great respect. But he was born with different-colored eyes, and there are some who would have him suffer a Seer’s fate. His fiercest adversary is Beibhinn, mother to Diarmuid, his close friend and king, and Astrid, the woman who holds his heart. If Astrid ever showed him any interest, he would fight Beibhinn and any army to wed her.

She is desperate to escape…

Astrid is sick of her mother’s belittling, but her brother is in no hurry see her married, so she decides to see to her own match-making. The man she approaches quickly reveals his lack of honor, but her overbearing mother pushes her to wed him anyway. When Astrid discovers Marcán’s love for her, she realizes that what she wants has been in front of her all along. True happiness awaits them, but only if they can put a stop to her mother’s plans.

•••••••••

REVIEW: Eyes of the Seer is book two of the Derbfine series by Ashley York. This is the story of characters introduced in book one of this series Curse of the Healer. This is the story of Astrid (sister of Dairmuid) and Marcan (Dairmuid’s second in command). While it can be read as a stand-alone, it is better enjoyed if you read the stories in order.

This story begins with scenes that happened in book one, with more vision and explanation seen from Astrid and Marcan’s point of view.

This story gives much deeper information on Astrid and Dairmuid’s father and mother. An intriguing look at how they came to be man and wife. The motives of marriage between clans is always interesting, as are the differences between the rules and traditions of each clan.

Astrid has been led astray by her own mother (Beibhinn). She plays at enticing the son of the current king of the clan MeicMurchadha, Padraig into taking her to wife (her mother’s wish). She is naïve and thinks he’s handsome and a gentleman. She finds out quite differently.

I don’t do spoilers, so I’ll leave out how she finds out. She finds that the strong and handsome warrior that has been protecting her is the love of her life. Maran has loved Astrid for a long time but thought her out of his reach.
They commit to loving each other and want to be married, but the things happening with Dairmuid and Aednat.

Author Ashley York has done a magnificent job of detailing parts of this story with more details not yet disclosed to make Astrid and Marcan’s story an exciting and intriguing one filled with legends, old wrongs and plans. This story gives so much depth and understanding to the series and the characters. It is well written and entertaining. I’m looking forward to the next book in this series.

Own a copy

Reviewed by Georgianna S

___________

DAUGHTER OF THE KING
The Derbfine Series #3
by Ashley York
Release Date: March 17,2018
Genre: adult, historical, medieval, romance

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: A mistaken identity. A gruesome murder. Was it defense? Or Regicide?

Brighit is a trained warrior who hates the trappings and demands of womanhood…

Selfish dreams need to be set aside for the good of the clan, but revealing the murderer can only cause more turmoil. With no one to turn to, can Brighit find escape in the arms of her new husband or will he require she reveal her inner most secrets?

Darragh is expected to follow his father into kingship with little desire for the coveted title…

But his willful wife is another matter, he has great desire for her. Despite her denial, he sees her womanly virtues, as well as her hidden passion, and it sets him aflame to know her both body and soul. Will she resist his overwhelming need to possess all of her?

••••••••••

REVIEW: Daughter of the King is the third book in the Derbfine series by Ashley York. This is the story of Brighit and Darragh. It takes place in Ireland about 1095 or so.

Brighit is the daughter of the over-king Sean and has been raised with riding, hunting and arms training. This is pretty much unheard of for a female. However, she’s her father’s pride and joy and he allows her to do all this until she finally begins her menses, then he expects her to put this all aside and take to what was commonly thought the womanly arts of cooking, sewing, being sweet…you know, like all the other girls (reviewer is laughing at this point). I love this wonderful girl, even if she’s a bit naïve and spoiled. I like her spirit and the things she likes to do, but then again, I don’t live in 1095.

Darragh is the son of the king Tadhg and his healer wife Tisa, lifelong friends of Brighit’s parents. He’s very tall dark and handsome, she doesn’t dispute this at all. But she thinks he’s too reserved and needs his father’s approval. Darragh is, in fact, a wonderful young man and is intrigued by her beauty and spirit.

Brighit and Darragh have been betrothed since birth and she’s accepted it will happen but has spent much of her youth irritating him or staying away from him. She often dresses in boys clothing and rides out to adventure with her brothers and friends. Darragh has caught her at this as they got closer to their wedding and made her promise to stop. In exchange he gives her a fortnight to delay the wedding if she behaves.

Everything was going fine, then the night before the wedding, Brighit being Brighit, is invited to join her uncle and her brothers in a mock night raid. She sneaks out, despite her assurances to Darragh for one last bit of freedom. Then all hell breaks loose.

I don’t do spoilers, but just know this is probably my favorite book in this series. Author Ashley York has written this with so many plot twists and a great deal of excitement. I love the characters and the storyline. It’s a wonderful romance, with threads of learning about each other, betrayal, misunderstanding, and deception. If you like historical romance, this is a definite must read.

Own a copy

Reviewed by Georgianna

Copied from the author’s website:

Goodreads /Website / Facebook / Twitter /

Two things you should know about me right up front. I’m a hard-core romantic! And I love history!

I believe true love does exist and once found, can transform your life from a solitary journey into a passionate adventure. Easier said than done sometimes but writing about the infinite number of possibilities, working out the exact when and where, and developing the character’s personal journey to get there, thrills me to no end.

I love history with larger than life heroes, chivalrous knights, lords and ladies, castles, manors, battles and conquests. These are the foundations for passionate, historical romance novels. That’s what I write.  There is nothing like the intense emotions sparked between a driven, hard-working medieval warrior and a feisty damsel in  a quandary, often not of her own making.

It only makes sense that I use my MA in History and all those research techniques to create romantic characters from the past. Although I’m writing fiction, I like to incorporate authentic places, events, and people, embellishing the past. I use real history but with an artistic flare.  I love research, especially from primary documents, and could get lost in them! You’ll discover a world of fiction wrapped around historical people and events in my stories. Some events you may recognize, some you may recognize but a little different than you remember, and some are just from my imagination.

I’m fascinated by the High Middle Ages in Scotland, England, and Ireland. There are so many world-changing events taking place here from their participation in the Crusades to the Battle of Hastings that permanently connected the islands to the continent. Before the Declaration of Arbroath, before William Wallace,  before the Doomsday Book, the area was ripe for great events and they never failed to deliver. It is on this combustible backdrop that I create characters with the same desires and motivations as we have today.

When I’m not writing, I enjoy cooking. It’s relaxing and I always like to find something new and easy. On Fridays I occasionally share simple recipes with Foody Friday. Sometimes entrees. Sometimes desserts. Sometimes snacks. Always delicious.

Check out my Website. Sign up for my Newsletter .

Ashley York is graciously offering a paper copy of all three books in the DERBFINE series to ONE (1) lucky commenter

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.

*** IMPORTANT *** 3. Follow Ashley York on BOOKBUB 

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 is open to USA and CANADA only

9. Giveaway runs from May 5-10, 2018

Share

My Oxford Year by Julia Whelan – Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

Posted on by
24

My Oxford Year by Julia Whelan – Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

 

 

Amazon / B&N / Kobo / BAM / Book Depository

 

Description:
Set amidst the breathtaking beauty of Oxford, this sparkling debut novel tells the unforgettable story about a determined young woman eager to make her mark in the world and the handsome man who introduces her to an incredible love that will irrevocably alter her future—perfect for fans of JoJo Moyes and Nicholas Sparks.

American Ella Durran has had the same plan for her life since she was thirteen: Study at Oxford. At 24, she’s finally made it to England on a Rhodes Scholarship when she’s offered an unbelievable position in a rising political star’s presidential campaign. With the promise that she’ll work remotely and return to DC at the end of her Oxford year, she’s free to enjoy her Once in a Lifetime Experience. That is, until a smart-mouthed local who is too quick with his tongue and his car ruins her shirt and her first day.

When Ella discovers that her English literature course will be taught by none other than that same local, Jamie Davenport, she thinks for the first time that Oxford might not be all she’s envisioned. But a late-night drink reveals a connection she wasn’t anticipating finding and what begins as a casual fling soon develops into something much more when Ella learns Jamie has a life-changing secret.

Immediately, Ella is faced with a seemingly impossible decision: turn her back on the man she’s falling in love with to follow her political dreams or be there for him during a trial neither are truly prepared for. As the end of her year in Oxford rapidly approaches, Ella must decide if the dreams she’s always wanted are the same ones she’s now yearning for.

 

 

Review:

My Oxford Year by Julia Whelan was a surprising and entertaining contemporary romance that was very well written by Whelan in her debut novel.  Ella Duran is an American fulfilling her lifelong dream of being a Rhodes Scholar and spending a year at Oxford, England.  Ella has a rising political career in front of her, but she looks forward to her year studying English literature, her hobby.  Just when she arrives, she receives a phone call offering her a position in a presidential campaign; they accept for her to do her scholarship and in her spare time, they can work together remotely.   As Ella heads for Oxford, she is thrilled with her opportunity, and the experience of a lifetime going to Oxford. This started surprisingly so well, as I was enjoying Ella’s journey and her joy in both her future job, and her time spent in Oxford. 

Her first day starts off badly when she meets an arrogant young man with his girlfriend, who was also drunk.  To her surprise, the next day she finds out that the same man was one of her professors, which leads her to think perhaps she should change the class. But Ella also meets some friends, who will play a big part of her stay in England.   Ella will run into Jaime again, and in a short time things will change, as they become friends and eventually lovers.  Both Ella and Jaime just want to enjoy themselves, and not become committed; they were great together, with the fun banter between them. 

With the support of Jaime, Ella manages to continue to work with her new bosses in America, giving ideas for the political campaign, and is thrilled in a short time when they offer her a full time job.  While she looks forward to returning home, things will slowly change, as Ella falls in love with England and Jaime.  When she finds out some truths that he hid from her, she must make life altering changes that could have so many tragic results.  Ella’s own words say it all: “I came to Oxford looking for a Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience and I chose to experience a lifetime.”

To tell too much more would be spoilers, as it would ruin the story for you.  Julia Whelan has written a wonderful story of life, love, experiences, decisions and how quickly things can change.  Whelan also does an excellent job of bringing Oxford to life.  I strongly suggest you read My Oxford Year.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

 

 

CHAPTER 1

The customs agent beckons the person in front of me and I approach the big red line, absently toeing the curling tape, resting my hand on the gleaming pipe railing. No adjustable ropes at Heathrow, apparently; these lines must always be long if they require permanent demarcation.
My phone rings. I glance down. I don’t know the number.
“Hello?” I answer.
“Is this Eleanor Durran?”
“Yes?”
“This is Gavin Brookdale.”
My first thought is that this is a prank call. Gavin Brookdale just stepped down as White House Chief of Staff. He’s run every major political campaign of the last 20 years. He’s a legend. He’s my idol. He’s calling me?
“Hello?”
“Sorry, I-I’m here,” I stammer. “I’m just –
“Have you heard of Janet Wilkes?”
Have I heard of – Janet Wilkes is the junior senator from Florida and a dark horse candidate for President. She’s 45, lost her husband twelve years ago in Afghanistan, raised three kids on a teacher’s salary while somehow putting herself through law school, and then ran the most impressive grassroots senatorial campaign I’ve ever seen. She also has the hottest human-rights-attorney boyfriend I’ve ever seen, but that’s beside the point. She’s a Gold Star wife who’s a progressive firebrand on social issues. We’ve never seen anyone like her on the national stage before. The first debate isn’t for another two weeks, on October 13, but voters seem to love her: she’s polling third in a field of twelve. Candidate Number Two is not long for the race; a Case of the Jilted Mistress(es). Number One, however, happens to be the current Vice-President, George Hillerson, who Gavin Brookdale (if the Washington gossip mill is accurate) loathes. Still, even the notoriously mercurial Brookdale wouldn’t back a losing horse like Wilkes just to spite the presumptive nominee. If nothing else, Gavin Brookdale likes to win. “Of course I’ve heard of her.”
“She read your piece in The Atlantic. We both did. ‘The Art of Education and the Death of the Thinking American Electorate.’ We were impressed.”
“Thank you,” I gush. “It was something I felt was missing from the discourse –”
“What you wrote was a philosophy. It wasn’t a policy.”
This brings me up short. “I understand why you’d think that, but I –”
“Don’t worry, I know you have the policy chops. I know you won Ohio for Janey Bennett. The 138th for Carl Moseley. You’re a talented young lady, Eleanor.”
“Mr. Brookdale –”
“Call me Gavin.”
“Then call me Ella. No one calls me Eleanor.”
“Alright, Ella, would you like to be the education consultant for Wilkes’ campaign?”
Silence.
“Hello?”
“Yes!” I bleat. “Yes, of course! She’s incredible –”
“Great. Come down to my office today and we’ll read you in.”
All the breath leaves my body. I can’t seem to get it back. “So… here’s the thing. I-I’m in England.”
“Fine, when you get back.”
“… I get back in June.”
Silence.
“Are you consulting over there?”
“No, I have a… I got a Rhodes and I’m doing a –”
Gavin chortles. “I was a Rhodie.”
“I know, Sir.”
“Gavin.”
“Gavin.”
“What are you studying?”
“English Language and Literature 1830 to 1914.”
Beat. “Why?”
“Because I want to?” Why does it come out as a question?
“You don’t need it. Getting the Rhodes is what matters. Doing it is meaningless, especially in Literature from 1830 to 19-whatever. The only reason you wanted it was to help you get that life-changing political job, right? Well, I’m giving that to you. So come home and let’s get down to business.”
“Next!”
A customs agent – stone-faced, turbaned, impressive beard – waves me forward. I take one step over the line, but hold a finger up to him. He’s not even looking at me. “Gavin, can I call –”
“She’s going to be the nominee, Ella. It’s going to be the fight of my life and I need all hands – including yours – on deck, but we’re going to do it.”
He’s delusional. But, my God, what if he’s right? A shiver of excitement snakes through me. “Gavin –”
“Listen, I’ve always backed the winning candidate, but I have never backed someone who I personally, deeply, wanted to win.”
“Miss?” Now the customs agent looks at me.
Gavin chuckles at my silence. “I don’t want to have to convince you, if you don’t feel –”
“I can work from here.” Before he can argue, I continue, “I will make myself available at all hours. I will make Wilkes my priority.” Behind me, a bloated, red-faced businessman reeking of gin, moves to squeeze around me. I head him off, grabbing the railing, saying into the phone, “I had two jobs in college while volunteering in field offices and coordinating multiple city council runs. I worked two winning congressional campaigns last year while helping to shape the education budget for Ohio. I can certainly consult for you while reading books and writing about them occasionally.”
“Miss!” the customs agent barks. “Hang up the phone or step aside.” I hold my finger up higher (as if visibility is the problem) and widen my stance over the line.
“What’s your date certain for coming home?” Gavin asks.
“June 11th. I already have a ticket. Seat 32A.”
“Miss!” The customs agent and the man bark at me.
I look down at the red line between my sprawled feet. “Gavin, I’m straddling the North Atlantic right now. I literally have one foot in England and one in America and if I don’t hang up they’ll –”
“I’ll call you back.”
He disconnects.
What does that mean? What do I do? Numbly, I hurry to the immigration window, coming face to face with the dour agent. I adopt my best beauty-pageant smile and speak in the chagrined, gee-whiz tone I know he expects. “I am so sorry, Sir, my sincerest apologies. My Mom’s –”
“Passport.” He’s back to not looking at me. I’m getting the passive-aggressive treatment now. I hand over my brand new passport with the crisp, un-stamped pages. “Purpose of visit?”
“Study.”
“For how long will you be in the country?”
I pause. I glance down at the dark, unhelpful screen of my phone. “I… I don’t know.”
Now he looks up at me.
“A year,” I say. Screw it. “An academic year.”
“Where?”
“Oxford.” Saying the word out loud cuts through everything else. My smile becomes genuine. He asks me more questions, and I suppose I answer, but all I can think is:
I’m here. This is actually happening. Everything has come together according to plan.
He stamps my passport, hands it back, lifts his hand to the line.
 

 

 

Julia Whelan is a screenwriter, lifelong actor, and award-winning audiobook narrator. She graduated with a degree in English and creative writing from Middlebury College and Oxford University. While she was in England, her flirtation with tea blossomed into a full-blown love affair,culminating in her eventual certification as a tea master.

Connect with Julia

Website: http://www.jmwhelan.com

Facebook: @justjuliawhelan

Twitter: @justjuliawhelan

Instagram: @justjuliawhelan

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/2939944.Julia_Whelan

 

Julia’s publisher is offering a print copy of MY OXFORD YEAR to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

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 follow JULIA WHELAND on Facebook.

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. Giveaway open to USA/Canada only

8. Giveaway runs from May 4- 9, 2018

 

 

Share

The Good Luck Sister by Jill Shalvis – Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

Posted on by
33

The Good Luck Sister by Jill Shalvis – Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

 

 

Amazon / B&N / Kobo / BAM / Book Depository / iBooks / Google Play

 

Description:
This summer, romance blooms again in Wildstone!

After a difficult few years, Tilly Adams is ready for life to start going right. Though she has a case of first day nerves teaching art at the local community college, she knows it isn’t anything a few snuggles from her rescue puppy won’t cure. Until she sees Dylan Scott again, her one-time BFF and first love sitting in the front row.

Dylan knows he should’ve left well enough alone, but when he sees Tilly living her dream, he can’t help but make contact. Ten years ago, he left Wildstone and everything in it behind, including Tilly. He had his reasons, but now he wants her back in his life, anyway he can get her.

When Tilly agrees to design the logo for Dylan’s new helicopter touring company, it’s business only…until she finds herself falling into his arms once again. Can she possibly open her heart back up to the only man who’s ever broken it? But soon they’re both realizing the truth – love always deserves a second chance.

Review:

The Good Luck Sister by Jill Shalvis is a novella in her wonderful Wildstone series.  I have said this before, no one does pure sweet romances, with characters we always fall in love with, better then Jill Shalvis. I always can count on enjoying her stories, and being happy when it ends. 

Tilly Adams, our heroine, is now all grown up, 10 years after the last book ended.   She is starting to teach art at the local college, and is very close to Quinn, Mick, their daughter Natalie.  It was great to see Quinn and Mick again, and nice to see Quinn is very much pregnant.   On her first day at the college, Tilly decides to bring her little puppy, Leo with her.   When the class begins, she sees a familiar face that she has not seen in years, Dylan Scott, the boy who broke her heart and left her.

Dylan has returned home to Wildstone with his two friends, as they start a new helicopter business.   Dylan wanted to see Tilly again, but knew she would not talk to him, so he decided to join up for the art class.  Tilly tries to ignore him, though Dylan will try to break through with an offer for her to create a logo for their new business.   When she decides to visit, she meets his two partners, Penn and Ric, and overhears them talking about why he left all those years ago.  His friend hints at the reason, and Tilly will push and insist he tell her the truth.  Slowly, as they both try to be honest with each other, their romance will rekindle.

In between the start of their second chance romance, there are flashbacks to years before, when Dylan was abused by his father, and Tilly was always there for him.  Dylan’s love for Tilly was strong, but he felt like a failure, and knew Tilly had a promising future.  Though things were difficult, he was able to come to terms with his life, spending time in the military and creating their helicopter business.  Now all he wants is to convince Tilly he still loves her.  Will he succeed in getting her to forgive him?

What follows is a sweet slow built second chance romance, with a wonderful couple that we were praying for.  Leo, the sweet little puppy, was a riot; as every time Dylan would get close too Tilly, he would bark at him.  I loved little Leo, her fierce defender. So cute.   I loved every time when Quinn was around, and especially when she was ready to have the baby.  So happy to see how much closer Tilly and Quinn have become.

Since this is a novella, I do not want to tell too much more. The Good Luck Sister was a sweet, emotional, and fun story.  Tilly and Dylan were great together, and I’m glad Shalvis took the time to give us their story, knowing after Lost and Found Sisters left us wanting more of them.   As the norm with Jill Shalvis, every book is a fun and happy read, and you can never go wrong reading her books.  This a a series you should be reading, if you have not started, I suggest you start with Lost and Found Sisters, The Good Luck Sister and the soon to be released Rainy Day Friends, coming in June.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

 

Chapter 1

“I’ve finished my free trial of adulthood and am no longer interested, so please cancel my subscription.” From The Mixed Up Files of Tilly’s journal.

Tilly Adams sat in the vet’s office staring at the doctor in shock. “Say that again?”
Dr. Janet Lyons smiled. “I think Leo faked being sick. Probably so you’d stay home from work today.”
Tilly looked down at Leo. “You do know he’s a dog, right?”
All six pounds of him smiled up at her. About a month ago, she found him on a street corner hiding beneath a bus bench; wet, dirty, cold, hungry and matted. He’d been Dobby meets Gremlin meets neglected, abused Care Bear. Tilly had looked around for an adult, and then had to remind herself that at twenty-five years old, she was legal herself. So then she’d searched for an adultier adult, but she’d been the only one in sight.
So she’d scooped the little guy up and had brought him to the SPCA, who’d said he was about five weeks old, a possible Maltipoo, which meant he came by his care bear look naturally. He was malnutritioned and suffering from mange. They’d said they’d do what they could, and Tilly had turned to go. That had been when she’d seen all the eyes on her from an endless row of cages … and she’d realized her care bear would soon be sitting in one too. Then she’d heard herself offer to foster him until they found him a forever home.
They’d found him one too. Tilly had signed the adoption papers last weekend in spite of the fact that just that morning he’d escaped his crate, eaten her favorite sneakers, destroyed her favorite pillow, and then yakked up the stuffing from the pillow.
He was a destructo of the highest magnitude, and something else too. He had no idea how small he was. He went after her sister Quinn’s twenty-plus pound cat and her neighbor’s hundred pound black lab with the same fierce, fearless gusto. Turned out, the little guy had a bad case of small-man syndrome, which was how he’d earned his name.
Leo, short for Napoleon.
And now on top of Leo’s impressive chewing skills, his escape artist skills, and his ability to get up on her bed and yet still not understand why stepping in his own poop was annoying, he had a new skill.
He’d faked being sick.
Proud of himself, Leo smiled up at her. Smiled. An hour ago he’d been coughing and limping and acting all sorts of odd. Now he just kept smiling up at her while sending her meaningful glances at the open dog biscuit bin between her and the doctor.
Dr. Lyons laughed and gave him one.
“Dogs can’t fake sick,” Tilly said while Leo inhaled the biscuit whole before licking the floor to make sure he got all the crumbs. “Can they?”
Dr. Lyons scooped him up and gave him a kiss on his adorable snout. “Yours did.”
Tilly sighed. It was too early for this. She’d had a crazy late night. Not hanging at Whiskey River, the local bar and grill. Not at a club with friends. Not working on her designs for he upcoming graphic art showing.
Nope, she’d been on a serious stress bender — a marathon of Game Of Thrones. She hadn’t fallen asleep until after two and her alarm had interrupted her in the middle of a really great dream starring Jon Snow.
Dr. Lyons handed Leo over. He immediately snuggled into the crook of Tilly’s neck and dammit, her cold heart melted on the spot and she hugged him close. “You’re sure he’s okay? He was coughing. And then he limped funny. And then he wouldn’t eat.”
“But he hasn’t coughed once that I’ve seen. And he’s not limping either. And you said all his food vanished while you took a quick shower.”
“Yes,” Tilly said.
Dr. Lyons waited for her to catch up.
Tilly sighed. “He really did fake me out.”


 


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

Connect with Jill

Website: http://jillshalvis.com/

Facebook: @JillShalvis

Twitter: @JillShalvis

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jillshalvis/

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/jillshalvis/

Tumblr: http://jillshalvis.tumblr.com/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/22370.Jill_Shalvis?from_search=true

 

Jill’s publisher is offering an e-copy of THE GOOD LUCK SISTER to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

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 follow Jill Shalvis on Facebook.

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. Giveaway open to USA/Canada only

8. Giveaway runs from May 4- 8, 2018

 

Share

Rome’s Chance (Reapers MC 6.6 /1001 Dark Nights) by Joanna Wylde-Review & Excerpt Tour

Posted on by
11

ROME’S CHANCE (Reapers MC 6.6 / 1001 Dark Nights) by Joanna Wylde-Review  & Excerpt Tour

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Amazon. au / Amazon. uk /

Don’t own a Kindle? Download the FREE Amazon Kindle App for your mobile device or pc

About the book: Release Date April 24, 2018

Rome McGuire knew he was in trouble the first time he saw her.

She was sweet and pretty and just about perfect in every way. She was also too young and innocent for the Reapers Motorcycle Club. He did the right thing, and walked away.

The second time, he couldn’t resist tasting her.

Gorgeous and smart, fun and full of wonder, she jumped on his bike and would’ve followed him anywhere. Still, she deserved a shot at happiness somewhere bigger and better than a town like Hallies Falls. Walking away wasn’t so easy that time, but her family needed her and he had a job to do.

When she came around a third time, he’d had enough. Randi Whittaker had been given two chances to escape, and now it was time for Rome to take his.

This time, the only way Randi would be leaving Hallies Falls was on the back of Rome’s bike.

**Every 1001 Dark Nights novella is a standalone story. For new readers, it’s an introduction to an author’s world. And for fans, it’s a bonus book in the author’s series. We hope you’ll enjoy each one as much as we do.**

•••••••••••

REVIEW: ROME’S CHANCE by Joanna Wylde is a contemporary, adult, story line in the author’s erotic, REAPERS MC series, and the latest addition to the multi-authored 1001 Dark Nights series. This is MC member and EMT Rome McGuire, and dental hygienist Randi Whittaker’s story line. ROME’S CHANCE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary. ROME’S CHANCE takes place approximately eight years after the events of REAPER’S FIRE but you do not have to have read any other books in the series to follow or enjoy ROME’S CHANCE.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Rome and Randi) ROME’S CHANCE is a second chance romance between Reaper’s MC member and EMT Rome McGuire, and dental hygienist Randi Whittaker. Eight years earlier fire destroyed most of the Okanogan Valley surrounding the small town of Hallies Falls, Washington, forcing Randi Whittaker and her family to relocate to Missoula, Montana before leaving a forwarding address for the people they left behind including Rome McGuire, the man with whom Randi would fall in love. Fast forward to present day wherein Randi returns to Hallies Falls for her ten year high school reunion, a return that marks the rekindling romance between Randi and Rome, and the potential fall-out as Randi battles between her new life in Missoula, and her desire and family responsibilities in Hallies Falls.

ROME’S CHANCE is a rekindling romance story line that focuses on Randi and Rome’s attraction to one another, and the life style from which Randi continues to run. With her ailing mother, and seventeen year old sister Lexi, and nine year old brother Kayden residing in Hallies Falls, it is only a matter of time before Randi’s inevitable return forces a face to face confrontation with the man that she loves.

The premise has a little bit of suspense and drama including some continuing bad luck for our story line heroine; the characters are colorful, broken and charismatic; the romance is provocative, steamy and intense (although I dislike the use of a certain four-letter word in my romance story lines; only used once it was more for shock value than any thing else). There are some questionable misogynistic comments about reputation that in reality are often used to undermine a woman’s self-esteem, or as threats to focus on someone’s behavior but this is a fictional story line, with fictional characters including the fictional life style of the Reaper’s MC. ROME’S CHANCE is a quick read; a second chance romance for two people ready to move on from the past, facing the future together and strong.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

I couldn’t figure out what’d happened.
One minute I’d been having one of the most exciting sexual experiences of my life. The next my ribs were being crushed as Rome slammed into me. Then I was on my feet, trying to catch my breath, as people shouted all around us. The music had stopped. Thankfully, Rome’s big body formed a barrier between me and the rest of the room, because everyone else in the place had lost their minds.
For an instant, I thought maybe I’d be safe behind him. Then some guy in a cowboy hat launched toward us, fists flying. I don’t know what I expected, maybe that Rome would start punching him—you know, like they always do in movies—but instead he ducked, then started dragging me toward the bar. More shouting. I saw a man lift a chair and slam it down against another guy’s back from behind. The poor bastard went down hard, so hard that his head literally bounced on the floor. He couldn’t even get his hands up in time to break the fall.
This definitely wasn’t a movie.
I needed to get the hell out of here. Now.
Rome didn’t need to drag me any more—adrenaline had set in and sexy times were forgotten. My instincts said to run, and I wasn’t going to argue. Running wasn’t really possible, though, what with people and bottles and tables flying all around us.
It felt like it took an hour just to get across the room, although it was probably just a few seconds. Nothing touched me. Every other step, he was pushing me to the side, standing over me, or slamming into someone to get them out of the way until we reached an opening at the far end of the bar. He shoved me down behind it, toward a group of women huddling under the safety of the ledge.
“Stay here and keep your head down!” he said, catching my eyes to make sure I heard him. “I’ll be back soon.”
With that, he left to wade back into the crowd.

Joanna Wylde started her writing career in journalism, working in two daily newspapers as both a reporter and editor. Her career has included many different jobs, from managing a homeless shelter to running her own freelance writing business, where she took on projects ranging from fundraising to ghostwriting for academics. During 2012 she got her first Kindle reader as a gift and discovered the indie writing revolution taking place online. Not long afterward she started cutting back her client list to work on Reaper’s Property, her breakout book. It was published in January 2013, marking the beginning of a new career writing fiction.

Joanna lives in the mountains of northern Idaho with her family.

follow: Goodreads / Website / Facebook / Twitter

Share

Bound For Eden by Tess LeSue – Review, Q&A and Giveaway

Posted on by
17

Bound For Eden by Tess LeSue – Review, Q&A and Giveaway

 

 

Amazon / B&N / Kobo / BAM / Book Depository

 

Description:
Alexandra Barratt has found the perfect man – it’s a shame he thinks she’s a boy.

Fleeing from the murderous Grady brothers with a stolen fortune hidden in her luggage and her younger brother and sister in tow, Alex disguises herself as a boy to join a wagon train headed West … a wagon train captained by the irresistible Luke Slater.

At first, Alex can’t believe the way every woman in town falls at Luke’s feet, including her suddenly flirtatious sister. But when she sees him naked in the bathtub, she finds herself swooning over him too. If only she could wash the muck of her face and show him who she really is…

As for Luke, he has no idea that the ragtag boy in his care is none other than the woman of his dreams. But when circumstances connive to throw Luke and Alex into each other’s arms, their relationship becomes very complicated indeed. In fact, with the brutal Silas Grady in pursuit, keeping their secret becomes a matter of life and death…

 

 

Review:

Bound for Eden by Tess LeSue is the first book in her new Frontiers of the Heart series. Bound for Eden is a western historical romance that was an enjoyable, fun story with some witty humor.   Alexandra Barratt, our heroine, is on the run with her two younger siblings; Victoria and Adam. Having survived the death of their parents, Alex has been pressured by the bad neighboring brothers, who are trying to force her to marry one of them; but they are evil, and bad to the bone.  Alex manages to steal some money from those Grady brothers, and escapes with her siblings to join a wagon train.   She knows the Grady brothers are looking for two girls and boy, so Alex disguises herself as a boy to throw them off.

Luke Slater, who is ready to go home, after a long trek to buy an Arab horse, he meets the boy (Alex) and willingly takes him under his wing, advising him to purchase a wagon and horse to move west.  Before they go, Alex gets to see more then she bargained for in Luke Slater, as it seems that every woman throws themselves at him, as he is a known womanizer.  Luke enjoys the attention, especially in the whore house he visits, where he meets the woman of his dreams (Alex after she cleans up, and calls herself another name), but she manages to run away before he can find out who she is.  Alex finds herself falling for the hot gorgeous Luke, but unfortunately, so does her sister, Victoria.   Alex must keep her disguise and secret, as Victoria throws herself at Luke.

When the Grady Brothers come close to finding them, Luke will step in and help them, thinking that it is Victoria who they want.  They all manage to escape and the wagon train moves west. 

What follows is a sweet adventure with some danger, excitement and the humorous banter between Alex and Luke.   The battle with the Gradys escalates, as they attack the wagon train.   When they are caught and arrested, Alex, Victoria, Adam and Luke feel safe, but the danger will rise again. 

I really liked them together, but this went on a bit too long & I found myself anxious for Luke to wake up and see what others could see; the woman who calls to his heart.  When his brothers find the pretty Alex very attractive, Luke’s anger keeps him at a distance from Alex, who truly does love him; but Luke was blinded by his anger.   The exciting climax, where both lives are in danger and hanging a thread, had me holding my breath to see if they would survive. 

It was a very intense finish, but satisfying finish.  Bound for Eden was a sweet fun historical western that was exciting, suspenseful and humorous, with a great couple and perfect blend of romance.  I suggest you read Bound for Eden, which was very well written by Tess LeSue.    I look forward to the next book by Tess LeSue.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

 

Hi Tess. Thank you for taking the time to answer some questions today.We are always looking forward to reading about the author behind the book. 

 

Tess: Thank you so much for inviting me along!

 

 

 

TRC:  Would you please tell us something about yourself? 

Tess: I’m a book-addict and working mum who lives in Adelaide, which is the capital of South Australia. I teach Creative Writing and Literature at Flinders University and I write fiction and non-fiction. For fun I like anything to do with food and wine. South Australia is magnificent wine country; we have wineries in the Clare Valley, McLaren Vale, the Barossa Valley, and the Adelaide Hills, and I can’t think of anything better to do on a day off than to go on a winery tour. I love swimming at the beach in summer and skiing in the Australian Snowy Mountains in winter, and I’m a total Zumba-tragic year-round.

TRC:  When and how did you first become interested in writing? 

Tess:  I’ve always written, even before I could technically write. The first book I ever ‘wrote’ was a re-telling of Cinderella. My mum wrote the words out for me, we stapled the pages together and I illustrated it. Even then, romance was my favorite genre. I wrote stories all through school, and then branched out into writing plays in high school and short film scripts at film school. When I was a teenager I wrote a serial story about a girl named TJ Walker, and my entire class passed it around. It was like a soap opera – it used to end on cliffhangers – and the girls in my class used to pressure me for new installments. I remember writing until I got a callous (this was in the pre-computer days). It was nice to have readers and it taught me early on that even if you’re not published, you can always find readers. Because I’ve always read widely (I used to read everything from Alexander Solzhenitsyn to Johanna Lindsey) I wrote widely too. I wrote fantasy and historical fiction, horror and romance. But always more romance than anything else. Writing is a lot like reading to me, only slower. I fall into a whole different world, and it’s just magical.

TRC:   How did you come up with the idea of writing a Western Historical Romance, and your Frontiers of the Heart series.

Tess:  Historical Romance is my drug of choice. I adore it. And it’s my favorite thing to write in the entire world. When I first started writing, I tried out lots of different time periods – including Regencies, obviously, because they’re so popular (and I love them as much as anyone). But it wasn’t until I started writing Bound for Eden that I really fell in love. The heroine, Alex, just popped into my head one day, and she was so sassy and feisty that I was dying to tell her story. And what I loved about Westerns when I started writing them was that they’re so rough and ready and the characters could be so quirky. These are people who don’t fit (for one reason or another) and so strike out for new places, to build new lives. Best of all, the heroines can do everything the heroes do! There are fewer social constraints. There are no ballrooms and fancy gowns and fine manners. The women on the frontier had to be physically able and mentally strong. They were brave and bold and they got down in the muck with the boys. Which can be so sexy. And I love the wide open spaces and the grand sense of adventure.

TRC:  With Bound for Eden released yesterday, can you please give us a brief description of this book?

Tess:  Alexandra Barratt is responsible for her foster brother and sister and when they find themselves targeted by the Grady brothers,  she takes them West, where she assumes they’ll be safe. Unfortunately the Gradys follow. That’s where the fun really begins as, to hide, Alex disguises herself as a boy and signs her family up on a wagon train to Oregon, captained by the irresistible Luke Slater. Luke is tall, dark and too flirtatious for his own good, in Alex’s opinion. As they travel across the country, Alex is the first woman to get to know the man behind the flirt – only because Luke doesn’t know she is a woman. Bound for Eden is a rollicking adventure of mistaken identities and raunchy good fun.

TRC:  You also write as Amy T. Matthews.  What genre do you write under this name?

Tess:  I write historical fiction under Amy T Matthews too, but it’s darker and grittier and more confronting. My novel End of the Night Girl is about a woman who is haunted by the ghost of a murdered Polish Jew. It shifts back in time between the present and the Holocaust, in the 1940s. I also write non-fiction and scholarly articles under the name Amy T Matthews.

TRC:  Can you please tell us what you are working on now, and what you have upcoming in 2018/2019?

Tess: The rest of 2018 is all about the Slater brothers. Bound for Sin is out in September and is about Luke’s not-so-little brother Matt and how he gets tangled up with a widow looking for a mail order groom. And in December 2018 Bound for Temptation will be released, which features the middle Slater brother, Tom, and his adventures with a nun (who might just be a whore in disguise). In 2019 I’m hoping you’ll get to meet the mysterious Deathrider again, and the woman who makes his life an unholy misery (before she gives him a happily ever after!).

TRC:  What is your writing process?  Do you like to outline your story before you start? Do you have a specific place you like to write?  Is there a special time of day that works best for you? 

Tess: My writing process is a mix of utter drudgery and moments of joy. When I’m working on a book I try to write every day; I force myself to sit in the chair until something happens. Generally, I do a bit of pre-writing planning but I’m mostly an organic writer. I know the characters’ names and a bit of backstory when I start and generally I’ll have an idea of one or two big plot points, but otherwise I just follow along behind the characters, watching what they do. I don’t have a set place to write, I move around. I like to sit at the kitchen table if I’m writing during the day, as we have big windows to the garden and it’s nice to sit in the sun, but I also have a study (which is cosy and dim and nice when I’m writing an intense scene) and sometimes I also write in bed (usually when things aren’t going well!). I work full time and have kids so my routine is pretty busy; it’s hard to section off regular times to write. I tend to just write when I can. Right after the kids go to school in the morning is a productive time if I can do it, but generally I get the most done at night, when everyone is in bed and the house is quiet.  

TRC:  When you are not writing, what other interests or hobbies do you have?

Tess: I don’t get much free time, to be honest. If I’m not working, I’m writing. Aside from food, wine, and Zumba, I read a lot and I love film. My second degree was in film (my first – surprise, surprise – was in history and literature). I find it hard to sit still, so I’m usually doing something while I watch. I make patchwork quilts by hand (that sounds crazy, I know, doing the whole thing by hand, but I find it’s a Zen experience). I just finished a quilt for my daughter, made from tiny squares in shades of blue and green, and it took me eleven years from start to finish (Zen…). Now I’m starting one for my partner in Matisse colors. This all makes it sound like I’m indoors all the time… but I love nature and love my garden and try to get out in the world as much as I can to watch the sunsets and enjoy the seasons.

TRC:   Would you like to add anything else? 

Tess: Just that it’s been an absolute pleasure – thank you so much for having me along!
TRC:  Thank you, Tess for answering our questions. We wish you the best of luck with Bound for Eden.

Tess:  Thank YOU!

 

Tess’s publisher is offering a paper copy of BOUND FOR EDEN to ONE (1) lucky commenter at The Reading Cafe.

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 follow Tess LeSue on Facebook.

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. Giveaway open to USA only

8. Giveaway runs from May 3-7, 2018

 

Share

Until There Was Us by Samantha Chase-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

Posted on by
10

UNTIL THERE WAS US (The Montgomery Brothers #7) by Samantha Chase-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway

 

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo / Google Play / iBooks /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 1, 2018

Megan Montgomery has always been the careful type. Except…one time at her cousin’s wedding when she threw caution to the wind and had the steamiest hook-up of her life. But that was two years ago— why can’t she stop thinking about it? So when Megan accepts a job at her cousin’s company, she does everything she can to avoid Alex—knowing he’ll shake up her carefully crafted world.

Alex Rebat’s been living a good life. He loves his career and friends, but like Megan, hasn’t been able to stop thinking about their passionate encounter. And once Megan moves to town, Alex makes it his personal goal to show her that maybe it’s time to start taking a few more risks.

••••••••••••

REVIEW: UNTIL THERE WAS US is the seventh instalment in Samantha Chase’s contemporary adult THE MONTGOMERY BROTHERS romance series focusing on the Montgomery siblings and cousins. This is IT specialist Megan Montgomery, and physical therapist Alex Rebat’s story line. UNTIL THERE WAS US can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Alex and Megan) UNTIL THERE WAS US follows the second chance romance between IT specialist Megan Montgomery, and physical therapist Alex Rebat. Two years earlier, at her cousin Zach Montgomery’s wedding to Gabriella Martine, Megan met and spent a wild weekend with Zach’s friend and former physical therapist Alex Rebat. In the ensuing months Megan would begin to pull back from a possible long distance relationship only to break Alex’s heart when all was said and done. Fast forward to present day wherein Megan is offered the opportunity to work with her cousin in Portland knowing that the possibility of running into Alex was a guaranteed, sure thing. A weekend of painting for Alex, and a day out with the girls for Megan ends with the rekindling friendship between our story line couple. What ensues is the second chance romance between Megan and Alex, and the potential fall-out when Megan is offered the chance of a life-time, and Alex’s life spins out of control with the loss of someone close.

Megan Montgomery struggles with issues of low self-esteem; a workaholic trying to prove she is good enough or better than anyone expected. Alex Rebat battles the self-imposed guilt of sins from the past-a guilt that begins to fester with an unexpected loss.

The relationship between Megan and Alex is a rekindling friendship; a second chance at a happily ever after. The slow building romance finds Alex biding his time with the woman with whom he has fallen in love. The $ex scenes are mostly implied and fade to black.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including Zach and Gabrielle (I’ll Be There #6), Ethan and Summer (Meant For You #5), as well as Megan’s meddling parents, aunts and uncles, and her long suffering brother Christian.

UNTIL THERE WAS US is a story of family and friendship; guilt and second chances; falling in love and letting go of the past. The premise is realistic and encouraging; the characters are sassy, spirited and energetic; the romance is tender and affectionate, UNTIL THERE WAS US is a passionate, touching and delightful story.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

 

Tugging at the hem of her dress for the hundredth time, Megan silently cursed the fact that she’d let her mother talk her into it. The navy-blue fabric clung to every ample curve and was shorter than the dresses she normally wore, and all in all, she was feeling very self-conscious about the whole thing.
She was surrounded by family and knew she shouldn’t be feeling anything but happy to be here, but old insecurities still lingered. Okay, maybe they had resurfaced thanks to her ex constantly harping on her about losing weight. Megan wasn’t fat—she knew that—but she was definitely not slim. She envied her cousin Summer. She had the kind of body Megan had always wished she had—slim—and she looked good in everything. Whereas Megan had to worry about how every article of clothing she had would fit or if it would be too clingy.
Another tug at the hem of her dress as she looked around to see where Summer was. They didn’t get to see each other nearly enough and maybe…
“Excuse me?”
Megan turned and saw the most attractive man she had ever seen in her life. He was tall with sandy-brown hair and a smile that seemed almost too perfect. She swallowed hard, convinced he couldn’t possibly want to talk to her.
“Would you like to dance?” he asked, and Megan’s heart beat wildly in her chest.
She looked around and wondered whether someone had put him up to this. But he didn’t look the least bit insincere. If anything, he seemed slightly amused by her confusion.
She cleared her throat and nodded. “Um…yes. Thank you.”
His smile broadened, and it was almost lethal. He had dimples too. She had to stifle a sigh when she noticed them.
“I’m Alex Rebat,” he said, extending his hand to her. “I’m a friend of Zach’s. And you are?”
Blushing because his voice was as magnificent as the rest of him, she replied, “I’m Megan Montgomery. Zach’s cousin.”
She shook his hand, but he didn’t release hers. Instead, he led her onto the dance floor where a slow song was playing. At first, Megan felt a little self-conscious about dancing with a stranger, but as soon as Alex gently wrapped his arm around her waist, all negative thoughts disappeared.
They swayed together to the music as if they’d danced together for years.
They talked as if they’d known each other forever.
And they were both more than ready to move off the dance floor and find someplace quiet to talk after their fourth dance.
Alex kept her hand in his as he led her from the banquet room to the lobby and finally out to the garden. The sun had gone down, and the entire area was lit with hundreds of soft-white twinkly lights. To Megan it looked like something out of a fairy tale while she felt like she was living in the middle of one.
Hand in hand they walked along the paths as Alex told her about his job as a physical therapist, and the more he spoke, the more she wanted to know about him. He had confidence and passion as he spoke about his work and his life, and she found herself hanging on his every word. And when he asked about her—her job, her life—she felt inferior in comparison.
So she’d given him a brief overview of her IT career and her life in Albany before turning the conversation over to him. The smile he gave her told her he knew what she was doing.
“Not big on talking about yourself, huh?” he asked with a knowing smile.
Megan blushed as she shook her head. “There isn’t much to tell. My job is fairly boring compared to yours. What you do really makes a difference in people’s lives—and after seeing all you did for Zach, I’m in total awe of you.”
They stopped walking, and Alex moved so he was standing in front of her. “Don’t,” he said, his voice a little gruff. “Zach did all the hard work. I was merely there to help. Not every case is as successful as his. He had the drive to do it, and he worked hard to make it happen.”
Both his words and his voice were so intense that Megan was overwhelmed with the urge to reach out and touch him—not just hold his hand but…soothe him. Comfort him.
And she did.
Reaching up with her free hand, she gently caressed his face and heard his sharp intake of breath. This wasn’t her—she didn’t do things like this, wasn’t this forward—and yet she couldn’t help herself.
“Megan,” he said softly as his head lowered toward hers.
She wasn’t an overly romantic person and didn’t believe in things like this actually happening, and yet the instant Alex’s lips touched hers, Megan swore she saw fireworks. Normally she was a little more timid, inhibited, but something about Alex changed that. Wrapping her arms around him, she melted against him—reveling in the heat of his body, the feel of his lean frame against hers. The feeling must have been mutual because she heard a low growl come from him as he pulled her even closer.
Never before had she been kissed like this—it was the kind of kiss that started slowly, and they both sank into it until it kept going and neither wanted it to end. Megan’s hands raked up into his hair, and when they were finally forced to break apart for breath, in only a matter of seconds they dove in for another taste.
For a few glorious moments, they had been cocooned in their own little world out in the garden, but it didn’t take long for other wedding guests to start coming out and walking around, and the mood was broken. Alex never stopped touching her though—everywhere they went her hand was in his, and she found she was thankful for the constant connection.
Over the course of the wedding reception, they danced again and talked and laughed, and Megan was nearly bristling with anticipation by the time Gabriella threw the bouquet. At that point, she knew she and Alex could leave. When she noticed other guests getting up to go, she looked over at Alex and said, “So…”
He was sitting beside her, and the expression on his face told her everything she needed to know.
He wanted to leave.
And he wanted to leave with her.
Casually they walked around and said their goodbyes separately. Out in the lobby, Alex took her by the hand—or maybe that time she took his—and they made their way down the massive hallway that connected the banquet hall to the hotel. Several times Megan had looked around to make sure no one saw them—and not because she was embarrassed but because she didn’t want the interruption. If she didn’t get Alex alone soon, she swore she’d spontaneously combust!
The ride in the elevator seemed to take forever, and she swore the walk to her room was a mile long. But once they were inside and the door was closed?
Perfect.

 

FOLLOW: Goodreads / Twitter / Website / Facebook

Samantha ChaseNew York Times and USA Today Bestseller/contemporary romance writer Samantha Chase released her debut novel, Jordan’s Return, in November 2011. Although she waited until she was in her 40’s to publish for the first time, writing has been a lifelong passion. Her motivation to take that step was her students: teaching creative writing to elementary age students all the way up through high school and encouraging those students to follow their writing dreams gave Samantha the confidence to take that step as well.

 

When she’s not working on a new story, she spends her time reading contemporary romances, playing way too many games of Scrabble or Solitaire on Facebook and spending time with her husband of 25 years and their two sons in NorthCarolina.

NOTE: The Reading Cafe is NOT responsible for the rafflecopter giveaway. If you have any questions, please contact the publisher.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Share