Monthly Archives: September 2019

Total Control by Laura Griffin – a Review

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Total Control by Laura Griffin – a Review

 

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Description:
Navy SEAL Jake Heath has his eyes on Alexa Mays. The FBI Agent is whip smart and hot as hell, but she won’t give him the time of day. So, when she calls him out of blue, he thinks his luck has changed.

But instead of meeting up for a romantic dinner, Alexa needs Jake for a very different reason. Her counterterrorism team is hot on the heels of the extremist that Jake’s task force has been tracking for months, and now he’s on American soil. The only way she can take him down is with Jake’s help.

Alexa knows Jake is tough and relentless…and that the chemistry between them is electric. Although she’s risking her heart—and maybe even her career—by bringing him onto the mission, she doesn’t have another choice. Together, they’re an unstoppable and powerful team.

As the hours tick by and a lethal enemy gets closer to launching an unimaginable attack, Alexa and Jake need to fight fire with fire before the clock runs out. The only question is: will their own flames get in the way?

 

 

Review:

Total Control by Laura Griffin is the 4th book in her Alpha Crew series.   Jake Heath, our hero, is a Navy Seal and after finishing up a tough case, Jake takes a short vacation; and is surprised when he is contacted by Alexa, an FBI agent he has not forgotten since he has not seen her for six months, after she never returned his phones calls.

Alexa Mays, our heroine, is one of the best counter terrorism FBI agents and is in the middle of a major case, and she tells her team that they need someone like Jake to help them, as he is the best at finding people.  At first Jake refuses to help, as he already has plans to be with his family.  But Jake decides in the last minute to help Alexa, as the stakes are high with finding the persons behind a terrorist attempt.  They begin to work together, with Jake using many of his contacts to get them closer to finding the leader of this terrorist group. 

Alexa was happy with Jake’s help, but she was determined to work more with her team, keeping some things secret.  Jake of course, has his own contacts and manages to be in step with her investigation. They continue to investigate together, trying to be a step ahead of the terrorist and the plot; during the off times, their romance heats up. I loved the chemistry between Jake and Alexa, as they were so good together; but Alexa knew Jake would be leaving in a few days doing what Navy seals do, and was determined not get hurt.

What follows is a sweet and sexy romance between Alexa and Jake, which had us rooting hard that they would find a way to stay together.  But the suspense and mystery of the story line remained on the forefront with non-stop action and excitement, keeping me on the edge of my seat.  Total Control was a novella, which seemed more like a short story, and amazingly Griffin gave us a bit of everything in this book.

Laura Griffin is an excellent writer, as I love her Tracers series.   She has created a great couple, as I really loved the chemistry between Alexa and Jake. This was an exciting action filled story that is a quick read, and sexy.  The last half of the book was suspenseful and thrilling as they raced to stop the terrorist.  If you enjoy mystery, suspense with romance, then you should be reading Laura Griffin.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

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Hard Asset (Cobra Elite #2) by Pamela Clare-a review

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Hard Asset (Cobra Elite #2) by Pamela Clare-a review

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date August 27, 2019

A perilous mission…

Shanti Lahiri’s tragic family history inspired her to fight for justice. Now a prosecutor with the International Criminal Court, she doesn’t have time for dating or relationships. When an investigation takes her to the Rohingya refugee camps in her father’s homeland of Bangladesh, the last thing she wants is an armed security team following her everywhere and frightening her already traumatized witnesses. But others who’ve tried to investigate these crimes have gone missing, and Shanti doesn’t want to be the next one to disappear. Despite her misgivings, she has no choice but to accept their protection. And, no, the fact that the team’s leader is lethally sexy has nothing to do with her decision.

An undeniable attraction…

Connor O’Neal left the Unit—Delta Force—after a decade of war, scarred both inside and out. Now an operative with Cobra International Security, he’s been tasked with protecting Shanti in one of the most dangerous parts of the world. He can handle anything the bad guys throw at him, but nothing prepares him for the instant attraction he feels to Shanti. From the first moment he sees her, he wants her. Too bad, because clients are strictly off-limits, and he’s a man who follows the rules—most of the time. Besides, he can’t afford any distractions when Shanti’s life is on the line.

A merciless enemy…

But something about Shanti breaks through Connor’s defenses, forcing him to confront his demons. As their mutual desire transforms into reckless passion, Shanti discovers evidence crucial to putting a mastermind of genocide behind bars. Connor knows her life is in immediate danger, but his plan to get her out of the country comes crashing down when a traitor strikes, leaving the two of them stranded in the jungles of Myanmar. Now on the run from a ruthless killer and his army, Connor and Shanti are fighting for survival—and a chance at the love of a lifetime.

••••••••••

REVIEW:  HARD ASSET is the second instalment in Pamela Clare’s contemporary, adult COBRA ELITE romantic, military suspense series focusing on the men and women who work for the Black Ops Company known as Cobra International Security. This is former Delta Force Army soldier Connor O’Neal, and prosecutor with the International Criminal Court (ICC) Shanti Lahiri’s story line. HARD ASSET can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story line is revealed where necessary. COBRA ELITE is a spin-off from the author’s I-Team Series.

NOTE: Due to the story line content and detailed references to genocide and murder, there may be some triggers for more sensitive readers.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Shanti and Connor) HARD ASSET follows the Cobra Team as they are assigned to escort and protect ICC attorney Shanti Lahiri as she travels to Myanmar in an effort to gather information about the warlord responsible for the Rohingya massacre and genocide. But a betrayal will find Shanti and Connor on the run in the Mayanmar jungle, miles from civilization and the safety of the Cobra Team. What ensues is the building relationship and romance between Shanti and Connor as they traverse a minefield of danger and death, and the potential fall-out as Connor believes himself unworthy of love and a happily ever after.

Shanti Lahiri is desperate to take down the man responsible for destroying so many lives, desperate enough to place herself at risk as well as the man with whom she is falling in love. Connor O’Neal knows that his primary concern is to protect Shanti Lahiri but trapped in the Maynmar jungle means survival at all cost.

The relationship between Shanti and Connor is one of immediate attraction but Connor knows better than to get involved with a client. On the move in an effort to stay one step ahead of the man in charge, Shanti and Connor find themselves pulled together towards their own happily ever after. The $ex scenes are passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text but I have to question $ex in a dangerous, dirty and precarious environment, $ex that could ultimately get themselves killed.

There is a large ensemble cast of secondary and supporting characters including most of Connor’s Cobra Elite Security Team: Derek Tower, Malik Jones, Dylan Cruz, Elizabeth Shield, Quinn McManus, Doc Sullivan, Thor Isaksen, and Lev Segal; Shanti’s boss Bram Meijer, and UN project manager Pauline Montreux. The requisite evil has many faces.

HARD ASSET is a story of war and genocide; power and control; betrayal, vengeance, danger, friendship and love. Pamela Clare pulls her story from the nightly news and dramatic headlines in an effort to show the brutality that is life for those who are trying to survive against the odds. The premise is powerful and thought provoking; the romance is captivating; the characters are strong and energetic. HARD ASSET is an informative, heart breaking and detailed story line that is sure to bring your attention to the ongoing atrocities and the Rohingya massacre.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book one HARD TARGET

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy

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Anyone but Rich by Penelope Bloom-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway Tour

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Anyone but Rich by Penelope Bloom-Review, Excerpt & Giveaway Tour

ANYONE BUT RICH
Anyone But…#1
by Penelope Bloom
Release Date: September 3, 2019
Genre: adult, contemporary, romance

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

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 3, 2019

Seven years ago, my best friends and I made a promise: No matter what, we would never date one of the King brothers. Even if they grew up to become megafamous, gorgeous, heart-stopping billionaires. Even if they crawled on their knees and begged for forgiveness.

But guess who just flew back into our lives in a private jet? And guess who just showed up to my job on my first day? Richard. King. Fortunately, it takes two seconds for Richard to reveal he hasn’t changed. Conceited. Cocky. Rude. Unfortunately, he’s also the kind of gorgeous that’s borderline offensive—with a jawline to make statues self-conscious and a grin that short-circuits my brain.

He’s spent years taking what he wants. I doubt he’s hungry for anything else—except me, apparently. There’s no way I’ll let him maneuver his way back into my life. My friends would never forgive me. I would never forgive me. But did I mention his jawline?

••••••••

REVIEW: ANYONE BUT RICH is the first instalment in Penelope Bloom’s contemporary, adult ANYONE BUT romance series focusing on the King brothers: twins Rich and Cade, and younger brother Nick. This is twenty-four year old billionaire tech businessman Rich King, and high school drama teacher Kira Summerland’s story line.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Rich and Kira) ANYONE BUT RICH follows the enemies to lovers/ second chance romance, of a sorts, between former high school friends twenty four year old Richard ‘Rich’ King and Kira Summerland. Seven years earlier Kira Summerland’s plans for the future were all but destroyed when Richard King interfered in Kira’s hopes and dreams. Fast forward to present day wherein Richard and his brothers Cade and Nick, have returned to their hometown of West Valley, North Carolina in an effort to upstart a new division in their billion dollar high tech industry. But first, Rich is desperate to make amends to the girl that stole his heart years before, a woman whose life, once again, is about to implode at the hands of the family King. What ensues is the rebuilding relationship and romance between Rich and Kira, and the potential fall-out as the political machine, and old money ways begin to interfere in the lives of our story line couple.

Seven years earlier, Kira Summerland and her two best friends Miranda and Iris made a pact to never date or fall in love with one of the Kings but promises made in anger and defeat are meant to be broken when the heart longs for something it should now want. Kira’s attraction to Richard is immediate and intense, and she finds herself easily forgiving our hero for past transgressions while desperately trying to avoid her best friends’ promises. Richard King and his brothers struggle with their place in the family-always about money and prestige, the King parental units will do anything to keep appearances including destroying their own children in the process.

The relationship between Rich and Kira is an enemies to lovers forbidden affair, an affair that threatens family and friendships, and promises made in the heat of the moment. The $ex scenes are passionate but mostly implied but I struggled to feel any real palpable love between our leading couple perhaps due in part to outside interference from friends, family and small-minded individuals.

We are introduced to Rich’s twin Cadwick aka Cade, and their younger brother Nick, as well as their parents Harper and Edna King; Kira’s father Mayor Summerland, and her best friends Miranda and Iris who both have a history with one of the King brothers; and Rich’s friend Stella, who has a secret of her own.

ANYONE BUT RICH is a story of betrayal and vengeance, secrets and lies, forgiveness and love. The back and forth frenetic energy between the friends, and the brothers is flirty and fun; all of the parents’ attitudes need a major adjustment in both maturity level, behavior and personality- slightly reminiscent of most YA story lines. The premise is entertaining; the romance is tender; the characters are spirited. ANYONE BUT RICH is a charming and delightful introduction to ANYONE BUT…

Copy supplied by the publisher

Reviewed by Sandy

&

 

Principal Lockett.He was shorter than most of the freshmen, but the shiny patch of bald skin on his crown and the drooping bags under his eyes meant there was no mistaking him for a student. “Just wanted to say good luck on your first day, Kira.”

“Thank you,” I said. I hoped my smile looked genuine. I’d expected to need to try very hard to make a good impression on my new boss, but from the first day of preplanning two weeks ago, it seemed like he was the one sucking up. It wasn’t the first time being the mayor’s daughter had given me some unwanted advantage. No matter how much I protested, some people in West Valley were dead set on the idea that getting in my good graces was the same as getting in my father’s good graces. Unfortunately, my objections went unnoticed, and people had never been quick to believe that favoritism wasn’t something I secretly encouraged.

So I did what I always did. I pretended I still needed to bust my ass to make a good impression. I refused to sit back and let my father be an easy pass, and I hoped for the best.

“Is everything okay?” I asked when he was still standing there with a smile plastered on his face. From the corner of my eye, I saw students start pouring into my room from the back door.

“There is just one thing. A slight hiccup, really. Nothing that you would need to worry your father about,” he said. “There’s a very influential businessman in town. He got on the phone with the right people a few minutes ago, made some very interesting promises, and . . . well . . .”

“Well, what?” My eyes were darting between Principal Lockett and my rapidly filling classroom.

“He’s apparently an old friend of yours. Said he’d like to be able to stop by today and say hello. He promised it would be quick.”

“It’s my first day,” I said slowly, hoping I wouldn’t need to explain any further.

“And you’ll do great!” Principal Lockett seemed to sense my inevitable eruption, so he ducked back into the hallway and flashed me a quick thumbs-up before the door snicked closed.

I turned my eyes toward my students and made a weak attempt to mentally rally. I can do this. They’re just children in bodies that have grown faster than their brains. They aren’t as mature as they look.

“Do you see how red her face is?” whispered a girl in the front row. I wasn’t sure if it was intentional, but I was pretty sure I would’ve been able to make out every word of the “whisper” from the parking lot.

The boy beside her smiled cruelly. “Maybe she’s PMSing.”

The girl frowned at him and slapped his arm. “That’s not how it works, you idiot.”

“What do you mean? There’s all the blood issues. Some of it must end up in their heads.”

The girl rolled her eyes, crossed her arms, and gave up on him.

I cleared my throat. “I’m Miss Summerland.” I paused, swallowed, and willed my windpipe to grow a little bigger. “This is—”

The bell signaling the start of first period rang deafeningly, cutting me off and making me realize I was already showing what a rookie I was.

I cleared my throat again. “This is—”

The announcements began, instructing the students to stand for the Pledge and the anthem.

I turned my back to face the flag and pretended I didn’t hear the snickering students behind me. I also pretended I didn’t remember being a high schooler not so long ago, and how quickly I would’ve decided a teacher like me was the kind students were going to eat for breakfast.

A few minutes later, the announcements ended, and I finally turned to face the students again. “Okay. This is—”

The door to my room opened. I spun, hands balled into fists. All the frustration of the last few minutes boiled over into an embarrassingly squeaky outburst. “I would love to finish my sentence!”

And that was when I saw my visitor.

Richard King.

Distantly, I heard the excited whispers of every girl in my classroom.

“Is that him?”

“Oh my God, is my hair okay?”

“This is going on my Snapchat!”

Their voices faded into background noise as I looked at him in person for the first time in so many years.

“Please,” he said. His voice was so deep and rich I could feel it rumble through my chest. “Finish your sentence. I’ll wait.”

He knew damn well there was no way I could think about anything else with him standing there. The corner of his mouth had twitched up into the suggestion of a smirk, and his eyes were locked predatorily on me. He knew exactly what was happening to me, and he was enjoying it.

I tried to picture a normal human being in his place. I tried and failed to unsee the broad, powerful shoulders and long legs, to unmake every cruel and perfect line of his face, from the sharp jaw to the dark eyebrows and burning green eyes. His nearly black hair was cut short and neat. He wore a suit that would’ve made most men look overdressed, but he seemed perfectly at ease. Here I was with my legs spread out like I was trying not to step in a puddle, pretending I was in control. Meanwhile, Rich’s pinkie toe projected more confidence than my entire body.

I wanted him and his obnoxiously cocky pinkie toe out of my classroom and out of my life. I was perfectly happy seeing him in a dirty dream every few weeks, where he couldn’t screw up my reality any more, thank you very much.

“Out,” I said.

“That was the end of your sentence? ‘This is . . . out’?”

The students acted like his sitcom laugh track, and I already wanted to give them all detentions for being traitors.

I turned, annoyed, and gestured to my students. “This is English Four Honors.” I looked back at Richard. “Out.”

 


 

Guest Post: Meet the Kings of North Carolina with Author Penelope Bloom

Anyone But Rich is the first book of my new, three book “Anyone But…” series. Every book is a true romantic comedy and is full of moments that I hope will have you laughing out loud, if not at least breathing out a little puff of air from your nose.

Anyone But Rich follows the oldest King brother, Richard King, and his love interest, Kira Summerland. Seven years ago, the King brothers left behind a trail of scorched earth as far as Kira and her best friends, Iris and Miranda were concerned. The three women swore an oath that they’d never date the King brothers again, even if they wound up becoming mega-famous billionaires and came back on their knees, begging for forgiveness.

But that’s exactly what happened. Now, Kira isn’t so sure she’ll be able to hold herself to a vow she made seven years ago, even if breaking it could drive a rift between her and her best friends.

Rich and the King brothers are global phenomenons. Each of them takes their own, unique approach to melting hearts. Rich is the kind of guy who puts business first and relentlessly pursues his goals, even if it means ruffling feathers along the way. That’s what makes Kira so special for him. She’s the one person who can bring out a softer side of Rich, and at times, even a funny side. But Kira or not, he’s generally seen as the face of the company, and he’s easily the biggest name to ever land in a place like West Valley.

Cade is Rich’s twin brother, but the two men couldn’t be more different. Cade is a somewhat strange blend of intelligence, goofiness, and unbearable cockiness. He can turn any situation into a joke, but behind the laughs and crude comments, he still wonders if his high school crush, Iris, would ever look beyond their past.

Nick is the youngest of the trio and generally thought of as the quiet genius of the group. He’s not as in-your-face as Rich can appear, but Nick commands respect in his own way. He also has the closest relationship with Cade, partly because Nick is the only one who ever seemed up to the task of keeping his wild, older brother alive.

All in all, the three brothers are like the riders of the apocalypse, if apocalypses were caused by melted panties and broken hearts, at least.

But the King brothers all share one thing in common. Whether they’ll ever admit it or not, they all came back to West Valley for the girls they left behind. Anyone But Rich is the story of Richard King and his attempts to win the forgiveness of Kira Summerland, his old high school flame. The question for Rich is how long he can pretend forgiveness is all he wants. For Kira, it’s a question of whether she can look past the mountain’s worth of warning signs telling her to stay as far away from Rich as possible.

There are endless obstacles between the King brothers and their West Valley girls, but the King brothers aren’t the type to shy away from a challenge. They’ve just never faced one this great.

 

Penelope Bloom is a USA Today, Amazon, and Washington Post bestselling author whose books have been translated into seven languages. Her popular romances include His Banana, Her Cherry, Savage, and Punished.

Her writing career started when she left her job as a high school teacher to pursue her dream. She loves taking her imagination for a spin and writing romances she’d want to live. She likes a man with a mind as dirty as sin and a heart of gold he keeps hidden away. Her favorite things include getting to wear socks all day—pants optional—and being a positive example for her girls. Showing her daughters that no dream is too big, no matter what anyone tells them, is worth all the late nights, doubts, and fears that come with being a writer.

Stay connected! For giveaways, goodies, updates, and extras, join the mailing list at https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/a0y7m1. Follow her on Facebook at PenelopeBloomRomance, and check out her website at www.penelope-bloom.com.

Social Media Links

Website: https://www.penelope-bloom.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PenelopeBloomRomance
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15928382.Penelope_Bloom

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

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The Year of the Fox by Merren Tait -Review, Interview & Giveaway

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The Year of the Fox (The Good Life #1) by Merren Tait-Review, Interview & Giveaway

ebook only 99¢ Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / B&N / Chapters Indigo /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 4, 2019

I started My New Life with a wild leap of faith and a screw driver in my back pocket. Turns out I needed a power tool arsenal…

Nancy Myers is having a hard time. She’s broken-hearted, homeless and unemployed. And she’s just turned forty. But Nancy has a secret weapon. Desperation.

Relying solely on her finely-honed ability to make stuff up as she goes along and the battery life of her cordless drill, she’s determined to make a fresh start (one that on no account features men of the falling-in-love-with variety).

After purchasing a rural property on a whim at the foot of the Southern Alps in New Zealand, Nancy attempts to settle into country life. She finds the vista of the mountains healing. She also finds a tall, dark and gumbooted stranger (who proves to be therapeutic in other ways).

But when she discovers her precious view is about to be taken away, Nancy faces a hard choice. Should she play saboteur to protect her own happiness, even if it means losing the man who just might possibly be the key to it?

Maybe her fresh start is actually a false start. Or maybe she’s learning a thing or two about how to be a kick-arse, self-reliant woman.

•••••••

REVIEW: The Year of the Fox begins with Nancy Myers having packed up and moved out of the city to some land she purchased in a rural town. She is still having issues with a breakup that left her reeling and needs a fresh start. Her plans are to build a house on the property that has a stunning view of the Southern Alps. As she starts to put her plans into motion, she is full of self-doubt. One day in particular, Nancy decides to take a little hike to explore the land around hers and comes upon a pond and decides to take a dip. It only takes a few minutes for a man, Angus, to appear to inquire what she is doing on his land and in his pond. She is mortified that she has been caught skinny dipping and tries to extricate herself from said pond with as much dignity as she can muster.

Angus is going through a lot personally, but finds his interest piqued by his new neighbor. As he and Nancy become friends, he ends up hiring her to work part time on his farm. He needs the help and she needs the money. Seems her savings is being depleted faster than she had planned for and she is desperate to see her home built. However, when she finds out that her view of the mountains will be lost due to plans that Angus and his family have for the surrounding land, she finds herself torn between being attracted to someone who has made it clear he is not looking for anything long term with her and her dreams going up in smoke.

The Year of the Fox is a nicely written story with great characters. Nancy is laugh out loud funny at times. Her dogged determination to make a new life for herself will tug at your heartstrings one minute and leave you laughing the next. She finds herself torn with decisions that have to be made and one particular realization literally caught me so off guard that I went back and read certain passages to see how in the world I could have missed something that ends up having such a huge impact not only on her life, but Angus’ as well. Angus leaves you wanting to thump his ears a couple of times, but ends up being a wonderful character as well. His loyalty to his family and the development of their land endears him to the reader. The secondary characters are very well written and leaves you wanting more. If you’re a fan of romance with a lot of steam and a lot of humor, you’ll not go wrong with this one. This is the first I’ve read by this author, but look forward to more. Well done, Merren Tait!

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Vickie

 TRC:  Hi Merren and welcome to The Reading Café.

Congratulations on the recent release of THE YEAR OF THE FOX

MERREN:Thank you. It’s a big deal for me – introducing my first book baby into the world. I’m very proud of it.

TRC: We would like to start with some background information. Would you please
tell us something about yourself?

FOLLOW: Goodreads /Facebook /Website /Instagram /

Merren:  I am from New Zealand and live at the foot of a mountain on the west coast of the North Island. As a teacher and librarian, I’ve been lucky enough to have had a twenty-year career being surrounded by books. Now I’m lucky enough to get to create them.

TRC: Who or what influenced your career in writing?

Merren:My love of literature. My entire life path as been made in the pursuit of it and I get daily inspiration from what others write. But I guess the catalyst was the wartime love story of my maternal grandparents. I’ve always wanted to write a version of it (with a lot of artistic license) and have had a notebook of ideas I’ve been nurturing for years. I’m getting closer to telling it.

TRC:  What challenges or difficulties did you encounter writing and publishing this story?

Merren:I chose to self-publish purely to ensure The Year of the Fox found an audience (traditional publishers take 1% of submitted manuscripts, so I didn’t rate my chances). As a result, I’ve had a very steep learning curve because I’ve had do everything that a publishing house does – organise editing, formatting, book covers, marketing, distribution etc etc etc. I feel very empowered by it, however, and I like that I am completely in control of my intellectual property.

TRC: Would you please tell us something about the premise of THE YEAR OF THE FOX and The Good Life Series?

Merren:The Good Life gets its name from a British TV show from the 1970s that followed the fortunes (and comic misfortunes) of a couple who seek to become self-sufficient. The Year of the Fox is the first of several novels that tell the story of women seeking a change from an urban-led lifestyle to a rural one. In this first book, the main character, Nancy, is on the rebound from a humiliating break-up and makes an impulsive decision to buy a large property near the Southern Alps. She has little experience with country living and livestock raising, and her sometimes clueless approach leads to hilarious misadventure and, ultimately, triumph. At its heart, The Year of the Fox is about female empowerment.

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

Merren:I have another three books in my head at the moment, but I would like to write at least six.

TRC: From where did you get the idea for THE YEAR OF THE FOX?

Merren:From my own misadventures with country living. I lived in a bus for a year on my rural property without running water and electricity. It was very basic living and I had to be very resourceful. Sometimes I failed to make things work and the outcomes provided very entertaining stories for my friends. When they encouraged me to write my tales down, I found I couldn’t stop and an idea for a novel started unfurling in my head.

TRC: What kind of research/plotting did you do, and how long did you spend researching /plotting before beginning THE YEAR OF THE FOX?

Merren:Absolutely none. I made the eternal mistake of making it up as I went along, which meant several serious rewrites. I won’t make that mistake again.

TRC:  What was the most challenging scene to write?

Merren:I thought the sex scenes would be difficult; that I’d feel self conscious writing them. But nope. I had no problem at all (I even rang my mum when I’d written the first one and read it to her to see what she thought) and I’m happy I was brave enough to keep the bedroom door open. I must have done a good job on them, because I get plenty of comments on how enjoyable (and steamy) they are.

TRC: Do you believe the cover image plays a deciding factor for many readers in the process of selecting a book or new series to read?

Merren:Absolutely. Cover image is critical to attracting the attention of readers. I really love mine. I think it’s striking, but it’s been a bit of a gamble as it doesn’t necessary say “chick lit”. Interested readers have to get the clues to its genre from elsewhere.

TRC: When writing a storyline, do the characters direct the writing or do you
direct the characters?

Merren:It’s a bit of both, I think. My books (my second novel is well underway) are character-driven and while I might have set character types in mind when I introduce them to the page, the action they create tends to develop as I write planned scenes. Sometimes the characters surprise me with what they do or say or feel.

TRC: The mark of a good writer is to pull the reader into the storyline so that they experience the emotions along with the characters. What do you believe a writer must do to make this happen? Where do you believe writer’s fail in this endeavor?

Merren:Creating sympathetic characters. The reader needs to be able to identify on some level with the main character. Novels can work with protagonists that are unlikable, but it’s rare and takes great skill. I’ve just put down two novels partway through because I simply didn’t care enough about the main character. I wasn’t interested in their story and I couldn’t make an emotional investment with them on any level.

TRC: Do you listen to music while writing? If so, does the style of music influence the storyline direction? Characters?

Merren:No. I am a musical person and I find it difficult to concentrate on anything other than the music when it’s playing. I can write to my heart’s content in crowded, loud cafes, but music playing frustrates the heck out of me.

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

Merren:That writing is either an indulgence (which is incredibly disrespectful to the art form), or an author can earn a living from their writing. I don’t think people realise how little the average author makes. They tend to be genuinely shocked to learn that traditionally published authors only receive 10% royalty on sales of their books. I believe New Zealand authors who are traditionally published earn between $10,000 and $12,000 a year from their writing on average, and it’s a similar number in the UK. My advice to aspiring authors? As glamorous and appealing as a book deal sounds, you are more likely to be able to quit your day job if you self-publish.

TRC: How should authors measure a book’s success?

Merren:By having readers tell you they love your book. Even if only one person is moved by your book – transported to a place that they grieve when they leave – you have succeeded.

TRC: What is something that few, if anyone, knows about you?

Merren:I kiss my sheep. It’s true and I’m not ashamed. They do tend to have a healthy coating of mucus beneath their nose, though, so it requires dedication and a lot of love (something only a doting sheet mother would want to do, I imagine).

TRC: Who is your favorite author (living or dead)?

Merren:My favourite chick lit author is Janet Evanovich. My favourite book of all time is The Bean Trees by Barbara Kingsolver

TRC: On what are you currently working?

Merren:I’m drafting the second novel in The Good Life series, called The Songbird Plot. All the novels in the series are stand alone, so the characters are new and the setting is completely different. This one takes place on a fictional island 150km off the coast of New Zealand, and the isolated nature of the community has produced some pretty interesting characters (and hopefully lots of comedy).

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food
Scrambled eggs. Just as well really as I own a lot of chickens.

Favorite Dessert
Creme brulee. I can say no to any other dessert (and I often do), but that one is my undoing.

Favorite TV Show
Doctor Who

Last Movie You Saw
This Mountain Life – doco about people’s passion for the mountains of British Columbia in Canada. Riveting. Beautiful.

Dark or Milk Chocolate
Dark

Secret Celebrity Crush
Michael Fassbender. Of course.

Last Vacation Destination
Australia. Did some scuba diving. Saw lots of sharks. I can die happy.

Do you have any pets?
Two sheep, five chickens and one cat

Last book you read
Daisy Jones and the Six

TRC:  Thank you Merren for taking the time to answer our questions. Congratulations on the release of THE YEAR OF THE FOX. We wish you all the
best.

Merren Tair is graciously offering an e-copy of THE YEAR OF THE FOX to ONE 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 LIKE Merren Tait on Facebook

4. Please LIKE The Reading Cafe on FACEBOOK and then click GET NOTIFICATION under ‘liked’ for an additional entry.

5. LIKE The Reading Cafe on Twitter for an additional entry.

6. Please FOLLOW The Reading Cafe on GOODREADS for an additional entry.

7. Please follow The Reading Cafe on Tumblr

8. Giveaway open internationally

9. Giveaway runs from September 6-10, 2019

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Sin For You (Rocktown Ink #2) by Sherilee Gray-Review Tour

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Sin For You (Rocktown Ink #2) by Sherilee Gray-Review Tour

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca /Amazon. uk /  Amazon. au /  B&N / KOBO / Chapters Indigo / Apple /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 5, 2019

My best friend’s sister is back in town, and while she’s here, she’s under my protection. Quinn Parker had her heart broken, and I’ll make sure no one hurts her again.

But when she starts looking around for a hot, no-strings distraction, I can’t stand back and do nothing. No one is touching this vibrant beauty…but me.

She’s the woman of my dreams, but Quinn wants a good time, not a long time. We play by her rules: no one finds out, no one gets hurt.

I have to keep it casual because an ex-con like me can’t offer her forever…even if I want so much more.

••••••••

REVIEW: SIN FOR YOU is the second instalment in Sherilee Gray’s contemporary, adult ROCKTOWN INK erotic, romance series. This is thirty-two year old, bar owner /tattoo artist Logan ‘Bull’ Calero, and twenty-six year old, waitress Quinn Parker’s story line. SIN FOR YOU can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous instalment is revealed where necessary.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Quinn and Bull) SIN FOR YOU follows the best friend’s little sister trope. Quinn Parker has no luck when it comes to her love life having four failed relationship end after finding her significant other(s) in the arms of other women. Returning home to Rocktown, Montana Quinn finds herself working for her brother’s best friend Logan ‘Bull’ Calero, a man who stirs something deep within our story line heroine.

Logan Calero doesn’t do relationships, believing himself not worthy of love or affection, especially a relationship with the woman that calls to his heart. Trying to keep his distance is futile as every man eyes what Logan desires to claim as his own but claiming Quinn means betraying a man to whom he made a promise to protect and defend. What ensues is the back and forth, hot and cold, building relationship and love between Quinn and Bull, and the potential fall-out as their time together comes to a close.

Quinn knows her time in Rocktown is temporary but secretly hopes her ‘friends with benefits’ relationship with Bull Calero turns into something more. A series of misunderstandings and miscommunications find our couple at odds in an attempt to understand their emotions and feelings towards one another. Hoping to keep their ‘affair’ a secret, Quinn makes Bull promise to keep silent about their time together, a promise that is increasingly difficulty as the heart wants what it cannot have. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and passionate, without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

The colorful and energetic secondary and supporting characters include Bull’s cousin Joel ‘Cal’ Calero and Cass (Beg For You #1), Cal’s brother Dane, as well as Quinn’s brother Mason. Both Dane and Mason are struggling in their personal lives, struggles I hope will be addressed in the future.

SIN FOR YOU is a story of forbidden romance; a best friend’s younger sister story of unrequited love and attraction but an attraction that grows deeper with each encounter. The character driven premise is engaging and inviting; the romance is spicy and sexy; the characters are wounded but surviving. SIN FOR YOU is an edgy and dramatic addition to the author’s ROCKTOWN INK series.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book one BEG FOR YOU

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

Follow: Website / Goodreads / Twitter / Facebook

Sherilee Gray is a kiwi girl and lives in beautiful New Zealand with her husband and their two children. When she isn’t writing sexy, edgy contemporary and paranormal romance, searching for her next alpha hero on Pinterest, or fueling her voracious book addiction, she can be found dreaming of far off places with a mug of tea in one hand and a bar of Cadburys Rocky Road chocolate in the other.

NOTE: The Reading Cafe is not responsible for the giveaway. If you have any questions, please contact the author.

Sherilee Gray is giving away a $20 Amazon gift card! Head to her Facebook Author Page to enter: https://www.facebook.com/SherileeGrayAuthor/

 

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Logan (7 Brides for 7 Blackthornes) by Samantha Chase-Review Tour

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Logan (7 Brides for 7 Blackthornes) by Samantha Chase-Review Tour

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

Goodreads: https://geni.us/LoganGoodreads

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 5, 2019

Meet the Blackthorne men, each one as hot, fast, and smooth as the whisky that built the family fortune, and the yachts and race cars that bear their name. From proud Scottish stock, Blackthornes never lose. But, one by one, the seven sexy men in this family are about to risk everything when they fall for strong and beautiful women who test their mettle in life…and love.

Logan – Book Six

It’s not easy being the youngest Blackthorne, and Logan has never shied away from a challenge. No matter what everyone thinks. Coming home to Maine finds him dealing with not only family surprises, but the shock of finding the caretaker’s daughter all grown up.

Piper’s dream is to design her own games, not play them. And Logan Blackthorne is the ultimate player. It’s one thing to hang out with Logan as a friend, but he’s far too charming for her own good.

Logan promises hours of pleasure, but should she settle for less than happily ever after?

Don’t miss these sexy, heartwarming, emotion-filled books by bestselling authors: Barbara Freethy, Julia London, Lynn Raye Harris, Cristin Harber, Roxanne St. Claire, Christie Ridgway and Samantha Chase.

•••••••••

REVIEW: LOGAN by Samantha Chase is the sixth instalment in the multi-authored 7 BRIDE FOR 7 BLACKTHORNES romance series focusing on the Blackthorne family. This is youngest brother Logan Blackthorne, and video game designer Piper Stewart’s story line. LOGAN 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 (Logan and Piper) LOGAN follows the building relationship between Logan Blackthorne, and video game designer Piper Stewart. Piper is a recent graduate and has been offered a full-time position with her friends on the West Coast, a position that will see her gaming ideas come to fruition but Piper struggles with leaving behind her father, and the possibility that her friends’ business is less than ideal. Working the summer at the Blackthorne family owned restaurant The Vault, Piper will come face to face with the boy-now-man that she has lusted after most of her childhood and adult life. Enter Logan Blackthorne, the youngest Blackthorne, and the man with whom Piper will fall in love. What ensues is the building friendship, relationship and romance between Logan and Pipes, and the potential fall-out as misunderstanding, miscommunication, and Logan’s time in Maine comes to an end.

Logan Blackthorne is ambivalent about his future within the Blackthorne organization. With the ability to do everything but choosing nothing in particular Logan hopes one day to sit at the helm of the family business but Logan’s reputation as a womanizer, and his indecisiveness as it pertains to the family business has earned our hero a less than stellar track record amongst family and friends . Piper Stewart’s new game design has yet to take off but working at The Vault gives Piper time to rethink her future, including the possibility of working alone, or with someone else. Rekindling her friendship with Logan Blackthorne gives Piper pause for thought, and the possibility of falling in love never entered into the equation. The $ex scenes are all implied.

LOGAN is a story of family, friendships, revelations and love. The premise is flirty and engaging; the romance is sweet and passionate; the characters are sassy, colorful and energetic but their issues of trust set up the relationship to fail. LOGAN is a fast paced, character driven and inviting instalment in the 7 Brides for 7 Blackthornes romance anthology.

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed by Sandy

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.

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Sweet Talker by Robin Bielman-Review & Giveaway Tour

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Sweet Talker (American Royalty #2) by Robin Bielman-Review & Giveaway Tour

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

Goodreads: https://bit.ly/2V6jvw6

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date September 5,2019.

He likes to be in control…

It’s like this: I’m the hottest restauranteur on the west coast. I work hard, play hard, and love my family. I’m also the guy on the receiving end of some unwelcome threats and fixation. Then Pascale Nichols walks back into my life, and I forget about everything but her. They say lightening never strikes twice, but she’s the one that got away. She’s also, I soon discover, the one my family *secretly* hired to protect me. Am I mad? Hell, yes. Am I game to play along? You bet.

She’s in over her head…

Everyone knows and loves Ethan Auprince. With his sexy-as-sin dimples and crazy likeability, he’s always the center of attention. I’ve been tasked with protecting celebrities, bigwigs, and high-ranking officials, but when I come face-to-face with the man I spent one incredible summer with, I’m in trouble. A careless mistake on my last assignment cost me, and now Ethan is looking at me like he wants to devour me, not cooperate with my subtle instructions while I work under the guise of his restaurant manager.

My reputation is at risk. His safety is on the line. But worse, were falling in love again

•••••••••

REVIEW:SWEET TALKER is the second instalment in Robin Bielman’s contemporary, adult AMERICAN ROYALTY erotic, romance series. This is billionaire restauranteur Ethan Auprince, and security specialist Pascale Nichols’ story line. SWEET TALKER can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous instalment is revealed where necessary.

Told from dual first person perspectives (Pascale and Ethan) SWEET TALKER follows the second chance romance between billionaire restauranteur Ethan Auprince, and security specialist Pascale Nichols. Ten years earlier, following a hot and heavy summer romance Pascale Nichols ran out of Ethan’s life. Fast forward to present day wherein, Pascale, now employed as a security specialist, finds herself working undercover as a restaurant manager for the man she never stopped loving. Enter billionaire restauranteur Ethan Auprince. What ensues is the rebuilding romance and relationship between Ethan and Pascale, and the potential fall-out as their time together comes to a close.

Ethan Auprince has a stalker, and unbeknownst to our story line hero, his family has hired a body guard in the guise of restaurant manager Pascale Nichols but the family does not know there is a romantic history between our story line couple. Ten years earlier Pascale Nichols’ life imploded and she ran to protect her head and her heart. Working for Ethan Auprince brings with it memories of the past, memories that force our heroine to look long and hard at what she wants, and where she is going.

The relationship between Pascale and Ethan is one of second chances. Ethan had no idea why Pascale walked out of his life ten years earlier, and struggles with the real reason she is now in his life. Hoping to reconnect with Pascale, Ethan begins a slow seduction of his restaurant manager/protector. The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.

We are reintroduced to Ethan’s brothers Finn Auprince and Chloe (Heartthrob #1), Drew Auprince, grandmother Rosemary; Pascale’s sister Paige; her boss Serenity; and five year old Rylee Stone.

SWEET TALKER is a story of second chances: secrets, lies, loss and love. The premise is emotional and captivating; the romance is seductive and steamy; the characters are colorful, animated and energetic but the ‘stalker’ story line was virtually non-existent ;the resolution was quick, non-confrontational, and rather unimpressive. SWEET TALKER is a great addition to Robin’s AMERICAN ROYALTY series.

Click HERE for Sandy’s review of book one HEARTTRHOB

Copy supplied for review

Reviewed By Sandy

When not attached to her laptop, USA Today Bestselling Author Robin Bielman can almost always be found with her nose in a book. A California girl, the beach is her favorite place for fun and inspiration. Her fondness for swoon-worthy heroes who flirt and stumble upon the girl they can’t live without jumpstarts most of her story ideas.

She loves to go on adventures, and has skydived, scuba dived, parasailed, gotten lost in the wilderness (and only suffered a gazillion bug bites for it) hiked to waterfalls, and swam with dolphins. In her spare time she also likes to put her treadmill to good use while watching her favorite TV shows, take hikes with her hubby, indulge her sweet tooth, and play sock tug of war with her cute, but sometimes naughty dog, Harry.

She dreams of traveling to faraway places and loves to connect with readers. Keep in touch and sign up for her newsletter on her website at http://robinbielman.com

Places to find Robin Bielman:

Website /Facebook /Twitter /Goodreads/

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

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Well Met by Jen DeLuca – Review and Giveaway

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Well Met by Jen DeLuca – Review and Giveaway

 

 

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

 

Description:
All’s faire in love and war for two sworn enemies who indulge in a harmless flirtation in a laugh-out-loud rom-com from debut author, Jen DeLuca.

Emily knew there would be strings attached when she relocated to the small town of Willow Creek, Maryland, for the summer to help her sister recover from an accident, but who could anticipate getting roped into volunteering for the local Renaissance Faire alongside her teenaged niece? Or that the irritating and inscrutable schoolteacher in charge of the volunteers would be so annoying that she finds it impossible to stop thinking about him?

The faire is Simon’s family legacy and from the start he makes clear he doesn’t have time for Emily’s lighthearted approach to life, her oddball Shakespeare conspiracy theories, or her endless suggestions for new acts to shake things up. Yet on the faire grounds he becomes a different person, flirting freely with Emily when she’s in her revealing wench’s costume. But is this attraction real, or just part of the characters they’re portraying?

This summer was only ever supposed to be a pit stop on the way to somewhere else for Emily, but soon she can’t seem to shake the fantasy of establishing something more with Simon, or a permanent home of her own in Willow Creek.

 

 

Review:

Well Met by Jen Deluca is her debut novel in a Renaissance Faire contemporary romance. We meet our heroine, Emily, as she is coming off a bad relationship and plans to spend the summer in Willow Creek, Maryland taking care of her sister, April, who was in a bad car accident.  Emily also helps to be the chauffer to her niece, Caitlyn; especially since her niece wants to be part of the annual Renaissance Faire. Emily get pulled into joining the faire, since an adult of a minor is needed to be part of it.

Emily will play the part of a tavern wench, and meets the leader of the faire, Simon, and immediately the two do not get along.  In a short time, Emily makes friends with the volunteers, and looks forward to seeing Mitch, one of the swordsman in his kilt.  She goes out of her way to avoid, Simon, who will take on the part of Captain Blackthrone, and in time the captain begins to play his role flirting with Emma (Emily) and soon the two of them begin to feel their attraction to each other heat up.   Emily worries if this is real, or just Simon playing his part.

Emily also befriends Chris, who owns a book store and is the Queen at the faire; she starts working there helping her with ideas to add a café section to the store.  As Emily’s sister starts slowly recuperating, she starts worrying what she will do with her life, as she has nothing to go back to.  With her relationship becoming hotter with Simon, is there a future for them?   Simon lost his brother a few years back, and picked up the responsibility of the Faire from him; a reason for him to always be strict and bad tempered.  He lets another side loose when acting like the pirate, and opening himself to feelings for Emily; but when the faire is over, Simon will go back to the way he was.  Will Simon be able to change for Emily?  Will Emily stay in Willow Creek, become the manager of the book store, and change Simon?

Well Met was a fun, sweet, cute and steamy story, with an amazing heroine.  I really loved the secondary characters, who opened their arms to Emily.  I thought at first Simon was too reserved and unyielding, but once he became the pirate captain, I did enjoy them together.  Jen Deluca did a wonderful job writing this wonderful romantic comedy that that had a lot of humor and charm, especially being her debut novel.  I suggest you read Well Met, as it was a fun enjoyable read.

Reviewed by Barb

Copy provided by Publisher

 

 

Jen Deluca’s publisher is graciously offering a paper copy of WELL MET to ONE 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).

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3. Please LIKE Jen DeLuca on Facebook

4. Please LIKE The Reading Cafe on FACEBOOK and then click GET NOTIFICATION under ‘liked’ for an additional entry.

5. LIKE The Reading Cafe on Twitter for an additional entry.

6. Please FOLLOW The Reading Cafe on GOODREADS for an additional entry.

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8. Giveaway open to USA only

9. Giveaway runs from September 5 – 9, 2019

 

 

 

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