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Uncovering Camila (Wildflowers #3) by Vivian Winslow-Review, Book Tour & Giveaway

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Uncovering Camila (Wildflowers #3) by Vivian Winslow-Review, Book Tour & Giveaway

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UNCOVERING CAMILA
Wildflowers #3
by Vivian Winslow
Genre: adult, contemporary, erotic, romance
Release Date: June 27, 2016

Uncovering Camila

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

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Camila Cohen is a highly ambitious and driven third-year NYU law student who works as a part-time bartender to help pay her way through school. She prefers no-strings attached relationships, afraid that anything serious could get in the way of her goals. But when chef Eliseo Perez ditches her for a job in Miami, she realizes even a casual arrangement can leave you feeling burned. Just as Camila’s close to accepting a position at the high-powered law firm of Sullivan & Moore (more appropriately known by its initials, S & M), her uncle Arthur, the head of the Cohen Real Estate dynasty, makes a proposal that compels Camila to question the career path she’d always assumed would be right for her. As she attempts to balance her busy final year of law school with her bartending job, what should have been a random Tinder date for a hot hook-up leads to something unexpected. Meeting the incredibly brilliant and handsome Marshall James forces Camila to face her greatest fears and realize that creating a life for herself means making decisions that could potentially hurt the ones she loves.

REVIEW

4.5 out of 5 for this reader folks!

One thing I really LOVE about being a reviewer here at The Reading Cafe is experiencing authors bloom in their personal art. I have reviewed Vivian Winslow many times now, and I have seen a distinct positive change in her writing style. She has always been a great author to me, but when I pick up one of her books, it’s almost like she has author “tells”. Through these “tells” I can say she has bloomed. It’s not reflective of her story as it is her writing style. Maybe that sounds strange, and I have totally confused you (my mind can be a real confusing place sometimes LOL), it’s just something that hit me as I was enjoying this particular book of hers.

Uncovering Camila by Vivian Winslow is the third book in her “Wildflower” series. You can read this as a stand alone if you choose, but I have to say, one of these “tells” that I am talking about it is Vivian’s way of weaving characters from from previous stories into her current one. She is VERY GOOD at this, and when you feel invested in not just the main characters, but in the secondary characters as well, it gives you a richer experience of the story being told. Uncovering Camila revolves around Camila Cohen and Marshall James.

We experienced Camila getting her heart broken in a previous book, so it’s believable when we discover that Camila has sworn off relationships and wants to concentrate on her law degree and her bartending job. She has been hurt, is guarded, has had to work very hard to get where she because nothing comes easy to her .. quite frankly she is one tough cookie! One tough cookie who is about to have her world rocked by a well intending cousin.

Marshall is smexy, a lawyer, from a wealthy family, strong in ambition but not so much that he is annoying about it. He is also smexy .. I know I said it again, but it’s because he really really is! LOL Marshall is ready for a progressive step in life, and has agreed to a blind date with our Camila. Only problem is .. Camila didn’t realize she was on one until she is well and truely on it! BAHAHAHA Loved that!

Marshall proceeds to friend Camila before loving her (class act right there readers) yet when the loving started, WOWEE! Very “telling” of Vivian’s style as well! Both have issues to sort through and Camila suddenly finds herself questioning her choices and has to face making decisions where someone will be hurt. Including herself.

I loved both Camila and Marshall and I believed in this pairing. It was a mature pairing, and one that was “sweet” before it was “hot”. I can go on about angst in the story, but you can read that for yourself. While it was present, it was the relationship of these two that took front seat for me! My only small negative would be it took a little while for this story to get going. I do assure you though, that when it did, it took off from there.

Another great option to read this summer, but I would go the extra step and read Vivian’s other books first. I promise you will enjoy this one all that much more for it!

HAPPY READING! 🙂

Copy supplied by the author

Reviewed by Rachel T.

Uncovering Camila Teaser

excerpt

 

 

“Soooo, the host,” he says. “Obviously single, no kids . . . .”
Camila shrugs. “Someone new to the school. I’m not in any of his classes, so I don’t know much about him.”
“You’re being weird. You’re always about extraneous details, and now you can’t say the man’s name or look at me.”
“What? I’m making you a cocktail.” Camila forces herself to look at Jared.
He regards her suspiciously. “You’re a terrible liar, my friend. I’ll figure out what you’re hiding.”
It takes all of one second when he sees Marshall walk into the apartment.
“Oh my God, it’s Mr. Gucci,” he whispers into Camila’s ear.
“Shut up. This isn’t the time.”
“Oh, it totally is,” he replies and heads into the adjacent kitchen to introduce himself to Marshall.
“Good evening. I’m Jared. I work with Camila over at L,” he says, hinting he recognizes Marshall from the bar that night.
“It’s great of you to come.” Marshall casually extends a hand.
“Remind me of your drink of choice, and I’ll be sure to keep your glass full tonight.”
“Yeah, that’d be great. You know how to mix a Metropolitan?”
The bartender suppresses a smile. “Funny. Camila really enjoys those too. I’ll be right back.”
“You fucked him didn’t you?” Jared wags a finger at his friend.
“How can you tell? You spoke to him all of two minutes.”
“While you hid in here like a scaredy cat. What happened? Buyer’s remorse? Hard to imagine though.” He turns in the direction of the kitchen and shakes his head. “No way. With that mouth, the way he stands, and his posture. He’s definitely good in the sack.”
Camila makes a face. “I didn’t realize he was my Professor.”
“I thought you said you weren’t in any of his classes.”
“I dropped it on the first day when I saw him. But what’s worse. He’s my faculty advisor for Law Review.”
“That’s classic,” Jared laughs out loud. So loud it gets Marshall’s attention. He spots Camila standing by the bar. “Oh, hey C.,” he begins to say then clears his throat. “Camila, I didn’t realize you were here.”
“I came early to help Jared set up,” she says, finishing her drink in one gulp.
“This is worse than my cousin’s bar mitzvah down in Palm Springs,” Jared groans to Camila when she approaches him for another drink.
“It may kill you to hear this, but this is one of the better networking parties I’ve been to,” she replies.
“That guy in the corner talking to your boyfriend looks like my Uncle Mordy.”
Camila slaps his arm. “Shut up already. And that man happens to be the foremost expert in Trusts and Estates in the country. I think Oprah is his client.”
“Seriously, honey. You do not belong with this crowd. You are so downtown cool, and they’re uptown uptight.”
“For your information, I just spoke with a woman who runs a legal aid office in the Bronx. She said her work was ‘rewarding’. How many people ever say that about their jobs?”
“Most teachers, except middle school ones, and saints.” Jared leans on his elbow. “So fine, not all lawyers are like my Uncle Mordy. But most of them are.” He checks his watch. “Cover for me a minute. I’m going to the bathroom.”
“I thought I was paying Jared to work, not you.” Marshall says.
“He’s taking his Union fifteen,” Camila answers wryly.
“I guess I can’t interfere with that. I would hate to get a letter from a union lawyer.” He holds up his glass. “Would you mind? I think I prefer your Metropolitans to his anyway.”
“I told you it’s because I don’t sweeten it. Besides, I could use something to do.”
“You’re not giving up so quickly, I hope. There are plenty of attorneys I can introduce you to.”
“So this was a plan to get me to consider a different line of work.”
“Not a plan as much as a hope. But I know better than to interfere in your life. You know what you want.”
Camila looks up when she hears that last word. “Up until recently I would’ve agreed with you. But I realized that I’ve been confusing need with want. I need a job. I don’t know if I want the one I thought I did.”
Marshall furrows his brow. “That’s a tough one. You want to talk about it?” He looks around at the party. More people have arrived. Students are always game for free alcohol, as he knew they would be. However, if he could, he’d snap his fingers and make them all disappear so he could be alone with Camila.
“Maybe later,” she says vaguely, pouring his drink into a clean glass.
Marshall drops five dollars into a tip jar. “Later then.”

“I’m glad you came tonight,” Camila says as she stacks the shakers and places them into a small box. “It was nice to have a friend around.”
“Students are terrible tippers, but you know I’d do anything for you,” Jared replies. He hooks a cord around the box of alcohol and stands. “At least I got to check out your secret boyfriend.”
Camila slaps his thigh. “Shh. He is not.”
“Oh please. You and Felicity should start a club. You guys can make a SLAM book and write Felicity + Todd and Camila + Marshall on the cover. This is so junior high with your sad, longing faces.” He presses his cheeks down. “A crush on your professor, and a crush on your boss, I swear I am living in the middle of a young adult drama.”
“Oh come on. You said they’re probably sleeping together. That’s not happening here.”
Jared puts a hand on his hip. “You’re lying to me, and you’re lying to yourself. I can see what’s going on. My vision is 20/10.”
“Enough. You’re being weird.”
“Pot, kettle, honey. I’ve known you for seven years, and I’ve never seen you act this strange.”
“But he’s my professor,” she whispers as the catering staff bustle around her, clearing out the dishes. Most of the party has emptied out with the exception of a few lawyers who seem to be friends of Marshall’s.
“No he isn’t. He teaches at the law school where you happen to be a student. I’m not an idiot. That’s gray area at best, but still within acceptable boundaries. And I should know a thing or two about boundaries because I’m always breaking them.” Jared hands her the container with the shakers. “Walk down with me and wait while I get a cab.”

 

About the Author

Vivian WinslowElizabeth Ann Hayes writes Romance under the pen name Vivian Winslow. Elizabeth was born in San Diego, California but has spent most of her adult life as the consummate wanderer. Her nomadic life took her abroad to Paris, Madrid, London, Hong Kong, Los Angeles, and São Paulo. After eleven moves across four continents over a span of seventeen years, her journey brought her back to New York City in 2011 where, despite the chaotic pace, she’s managed to make it home for herself and her family.

Since 2014, Elizabeth has published nine novellas in her Gilded Flower Trilogies as well as two installments of Wildflowers, a New Adult series of standalone novels. These contemporary romance books are female-driven with strong, beautiful and intelligent women as well as diverse characters, reflecting her own multi-cultural heritage.

Social Links:

Website: http://www.vivianwinslow.com
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/vivianwinslowauthor
Twitter – https://twitter.com/VivWinslow
Pinterest – http://www.pinterest.com/VivWinslow/
Amazon page – http://amzn.to/1p4dE3N
Google+ – https://plus.google.com/u/0/+VivianWinslow760/posts
Instagram – https://instagram.com/vivwinslow
Tumblr – http://vivwinslow.tumblr.com
Medium – https://medium.com/search?q=vivian%20winslow
Spotify – https://play.spotify.com/user/vivwinslow

Spotify playlist for Uncovering Camila
https://open.spotify.com/user/vivwinslow/playlist/6Aeao0ntFKPcoAvqQfV5jR

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Only You by Cheryl Holt-Review, Book Tour and Giveaway

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Only You by Cheryl Holt-Review, Book Tour and Giveaway

Only You

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date July 1, 2016

CHERYL HOLT does it again with another fast-paced, dramatic tale of seduction, passion, and romance. This time, love blooms on a lazy, decadent trip down the Nile!

Lady Theodosia Postlewaite, known as Theo to her family and friends, has always had the worst luck. On the night her betrothal was to be announced, she was unwittingly caught in a compromising situation. With her engagement ended and her reputation in tatters, her incensed father demands she flee the gossip by accompanying her dour, grumpy aunt on a sightseeing trip to Egypt. Theo reluctantly agrees, and she’s determined to spend the months abroad proving she possesses the highest moral character. Most especially, she vows to never so much as speak to a handsome man ever again.

Soloman Grey has lived in Egypt for the past decade. His own scandal chased him out of London, and he’s built a new life for himself as an adventurer and explorer. Because of the gossip that ruined him, he doesn’t trust anyone, and he constantly vows that he’ll never so much as glance at a pretty woman ever again.

But when Soloman meets Theo, he’s dragged into her world in a dozen ways he never intended. She’s beautiful, funny, and lonely, and he can’t resist. Yet, he’s the bastard son of an earl, so he could never be worthy of her. When her relatives would do anything to keep them apart, dare he risk all to have her for his very own?

••••••

REVIEW:

5 out of 5 for this reader folks!

Ah .. nothing like a good book that delivers what I like to refer to as a lazy read. So easy to flip page after page (or in my case the e-reader screen) when a story just naturally captivates and flows so well. Only You by Cheryl Holt is a historical romance with maybe a side of erotica (some may think so) that collides two souls that were seriously made for one another. I can see reading this on the beach this summer, or swinging on a hammock in the breeze. Just pure indulgent reading. LOL

Lady Theodosia Postlewaite is an English lady who has had her life mapped out for her. She is going to marry (insert stuffy so wrong for her Englishmen) because her father says it’s so. On Christmas Eve, just before her betrothal is announced, Theo hears some ladies gossiping about her soon to be fiance, and his mistress he has no desire to give up. These mean girls rip Theo to shreds behind her back (little did they know they were heard), but they also open Theo’s eyes to the kind of life that is waiting for her with this marriage. Theo is naive, lonely, obedient and she is just going through the motions of life without thinking she is missing out on any thing special. When she is caught in a chance encounter with another man, her betrothal is broken, she is ruined and sent off with Auntie Dearest on what she believes is exile. It just so happens to be life changing and one heck of an adventure.

Soloman Grey … SIGH! I really like Soloman Grey. Soloman is considered a bastard in polite English society, but he is a recognized bastard. He is embraced by his father, loved by his father and before he his father passes away, Soloman is given guardianship of the estate on behalf of his legitimate baby brother. When Soloman’s baby brother disappears, everyone assumes Soloman took care of business in order to inherit the family fortune. He is completely shuned and in order to escape the assumptions and mutters and downright rudeness of polite society, he willingly leaves England, which to some, means he confirms his guilt.

Both Theo and Soloman paths cross in Egypt. I suppose this is a quest of sorts .. a quest of self discovery and healing. While Soloman tries his hardest to stay away from Theo he eventually just gives in to this incredible woman (although there is lots of taking and giving on both ends ..lol). It’s like neither of them knew that they needed the other until they experienced what it is like to have each other. Friendship and a one hot romance soon follows as we get a tour down the Nile River.

Add in some adventure, exotic foreign experiences and a big fat middle finger to polite society (when they get to that point, I swear I high fived my ereader ..lol) and you have one fantastic book. I love historical romance that throws anything proper out the door, and allows for characters to bloom in a strange setting, and this is exactly what Cheryl has allowed her lead characters to do. Both came into their own and brought out the best in the other. Of course there is some angst and danger, and some serious jerkfaces, but I will not go into any of that as you can find that out for yourself.

If you love the historical romance genre, and you are looking for a fantastic read this summer, I strongly recommend this book. You will get the action, adventure, suspense and hot steamy smexy here. I can’t wait for you to write more Cheryl Holt!

HAPPY READING! 🙂

Copy supplied by the publisher

Reviewed by Rachel T.

 

About The Author Black and Blue

Follow: Goodreads / Website /Twitter /Facebook

Cheryl HoltCHERYL HOLT is a New York Times, USA Today, and Amazon “Top 100” bestselling author who has published over forty novels.

She’s also a lawyer and mom, and at age forty, with two babies at home, she
started a new career as a commercial fiction writer. She’d hoped to be a
suspense novelist, but couldn’t sell any of her manuscripts, so she ended
up taking a detour into romance where she was stunned to discover that she has a knack for writing some of the world’s greatest love stories.

Her books have been released to wide acclaim, and she has won or been nominated for many national awards. She is considered to be one of the masters of the romance genre. For many years, she was hailed as “The Queen of Erotic Romance”, and she’s also revered as “The International Queen of Villains.” She is particularly proud to have been named “Best Storyteller of the Year” by the trade magazine Romantic Times BOOK Reviews.

She lives and writes in Hollywood, California, and she loves to hear from fans.

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The Ghost (Highland Guard #12) by Monica McCarty-Review and Giveaway

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The Ghost (Highland Guard #12) by Monica McCarty-Review and Giveaway

The Ghost Banner

The Ghost
Highland Guard #12
by Monica McCarty
Genre: adult, historical, Highland, romance
Release Date: May 31, 2016

The Ghost

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

Joan Comyn swore allegiance to Robert the Bruce the day she witnessed England’s barbarous king torturing her famous mother, Scot patriot Bella MacDuff. Now the mysterious beauty slips into men’s hearts like a specter and entices England’s most illustrious barons to unwittingly divulge their secrets, then shares them with her king. Known only as the Ghost even among her Highland Guard brethren, Joan has become the most wanted spy in England.

The man determined to uncover her identity poses her biggest threat yet. Alex Seton once stood with Bruce but now fights for the enemy. Though Joan knows she must avoid the handsome warrior or risk discovery, his knightly chivalry touches a place in her long since buried. When his suspicions grow apparent, Joan realizes she must do everything in her power to stop Alex from revealing her mission and convince the powerful fighter to join forces with the Highland Guard once more. But as the ultimate battle in the great war approaches, will Alex chose love or honor?

••••••••••

REVIEW: 5 out of 5 for this reader folks!

I almost don’t want to write this review. If I finish writing this review, it means that it’s over. This is the final book in what I wholeheartedly believe is one of the best historical highland romance series out there. The Ghost by Monica McCarty is the 12th and final book of her Highland Guard series. She tied this entire series up in a package and set everything to right. I am so sad it’s over, but what an incredible journey I have had the past few years with all these characters.

The Ghost is Alex Seton’s (remember good ole Alex .. he left to go back to the English in one of the earlier books) and Joan Comyn’s (remember her mother is the lady that the English punished and who ended up with Viper) story. I always wondered about Alex as he was a complex man. He is a true English Knight, who once stood with The Guard, but opted to return to his homeland and is now considered a traitor by The Guard. Joan, has grown up now, has become a member of The Highland Guard and given the code name “The Ghost”. She specializes in obtaining vital information from the English to pass to the Scots. She will use whatever means to get this information, and that includes seduction. When Alex and Joan meet, their chemistry in instant, and the burn is very hot. Both are equally passionate about their causes, which leaves us readers wondering how Monica is going to write these very different characters a happily ever after.

SHE NAILS IT!

It is very much a cat and mouse game these two play with each other. The only thing is, they are uncertain who is chasing and who is getting caught. They both suspect each other, flirt with betrayal to their countries and to each other. Wounds fester, and some heal. As per usual, the love is brilliantly written, and the scenes are smoking hot. You feel the devastation of despair and the elation of true happiness. Truely, I am not giving you any actual story in this review .. I just refuse to spoil it for you .. like at all! LOL

The story/series finishes with a final battle that we knew was coming. Monica weaves together all the characters from previous books and we get to see where their lives have taken them since we last met. I LOVE THAT. This ending was very bitter sweet. What I have said in many past reviews of this series, Monica writes her stories around actual events and actual characters in history. There is always a little blurb at the end that fascinates me.

Full of action, history, emotions, betrayal, lust, mystery and suspense, every single one of these books has hit it’s mark. No two characters are the same, and all are well matched. Monica McCarty has a talent for knowing which characters should be paired, which should be enemies, which should be playful and/or serious, which is awkward, it’s rather brilliant really. LOL

Thank you Monica for this journey. Thank you for providing me hours of entertainment and nail biting moments. I love your writing style and again I am so sad it’s over. Although, I just realized that I can go back and reread/revisit any of these amazing couples whenever I want .. that makes writing this review a little easier! LOL

HAPPY READING! 🙂

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

Reviewed by Rachel T.

giveaway

Monica’s publisher and The Reading Cafe are offering a paper copy of THE GHOST 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 Monica McCarty 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.

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8. Giveaway is open to USA only

9. Giveaway runs from May 31-June 5, 2016

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Blast from the Past: The Sands of Time by Sidney Sheldon-a review

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Blast From the Past: The Sands of Time by Sidney Sheldon-a review

Blast From the Past

Welcome to a new feature at The Reading Cafe-BLAST FROM THE PAST-a look back at some of the oldies but goodies in the world of literary romance and ‘bodice-ripper- style novels. Our third installment is THE SANDS OF TIME by Sidney Sheldon.  Please enjoy Rachel’s review and tell us about some of your favorite romance story lines from the past.

THE SANDS OF TIME
by Sidney Sheldon
Release Date: 1989
Genre: historical, romantic, suspense
The Sands of Time

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Four nuns find themselves suddenly thrust into a hostile world they long ago abandoned for the safety of the convent. Unwittingly they become pawns in a battle between the charismatic Jaime Miró, leader of the outlawed Basque nationalists, and the ruthless Colonel Ramón Acoca of the Spanish Amy.

Four women – and the men they are forbidden to love.
Megan – the orphan, who feels an overpowering attraction to Jaime.
Lucia – the fiery Sicilian beauty on the run for murder – and Rubio Arzano, the freedom fighter who risks his life to save her.
Teresa – whose guilty conscience finally drives her to betray her friends.
Graciela – who bears a terrible secret that almost destroys her – and the courageous Ricardo who loves her.

From the same author of the books “The Other Side of Midnight”, “Rage of Angels”, “Bloodline” and “Windmills of the Gods”. The book is set in Spain and centres around four nuns and their unwitting involvement with outlawed Basque nationalists and the Spanish Army.

REVIEW

5 out of 5 for this reader folks!

I am an avid reader. I started young, and cannot ever think of a moment when I didn’t have a book on the go at any giving time. When I think of “Blast From The Past”, I think of the books that opened a whole new world of reading for me. I remember reading the teeny bopper books when I was a tween/teen, and compared to now a days , they were very PG. I remember checking out my mother’s bookshelf, not really knowing what I could expect to find, but knowing I was bored of tween/teen. Well .. in pops Sidney Sheldon into my life, and the official leap into adult reading was done.

Sidney Sheldon, the top author that I will reread and reread again and again. He wrote beautiful trashy books that had elements of danger, suspense, SEX (a huge deal at 13) and a whole lot of story I didn’t always grasp. When I spoke with my mom about them (she realized I was actually enjoying the storyline and not just the trash), I remember learning all about storyline twists and turns and not always understanding what had happened at that moment in the story (amazing platforms for some awesome bonding times with my mom) because I was still a little too young to grasp it. BUT, I grew up when I discovered Sidney Sheldon, and I smile fondly even to this day, when I crack a paper copy (GASP .. I’m mostly an ereader, but you have to read Sidney on paper that comes from an old used bookstore ..lol).

Sands of Time by Sidney Sheldon was originally published in 1988, and it is my all time fave novel by him. Set during the Spanish Civil War, Spanish Inquisition in 1930’s, it follows the story of 4 nuns, a charismatic rebel and a Colonel who despite his position and rank, is an absolute horrible man.

Our 4 nuns are quite different. Lucia is in the nunnery because she is hiding from a murderous past. Megan is an orphan that is sweet and who seems to be made to be a nun. Graciella is the beauty of the group, so beautiful men lust after her with just s simple glance. Theresa is our older nun who is in constant turmoil with herself and her faith. In typical Sidney Sheldon writing style, we are taken back into each one of these four ladies pasts where we can appreciate what has molded them to be the ladies they are today. Some pasts are absolutely tragic.

During this war, the rebel leader Jaime is constantly being chased by Colonel Acoca. Jaime is a passionate soul who believes in his cause and reason to rebel. He has much responsibility on his shoulders, trusts who he believes he needs to, and right or wrong, will do whatever must be done for his cause. He is a doer .. not a talker! If you decieve him, you will pay. He has also found himself falling in love with one of the nuns he has agreed to protect when their nunnery was attacked. Col Acoca is a monster who hides behind a position in order to by a tyrant. He cares only for himself, not his people. He is on a mission to take down Jamie, and if killing nuns is what it will take, he will see it done.

The story goes on from there, and there are many turns and twists, and people who are good were really bad, and selfish people become giving, and oh .. so much more! When you dive into Sands of Time, you dive into a whole lot of story! LOL

So a great Blast From the Past to review. I usually go on a Sidney Sheldon kick once I pick up one of his books, so do not be suprised if you see him featured again! LOL

HAPPY READING! 🙂

Reviewed by Rachel T.

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Atonement / Born To Die (McIntire County 1 & 2) by Winter Austin-reviews

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Atonement / Born to Die (McIntire County 1 & 2) by Winter Austin-reviews

McIntire County series

4.5 out of 5 for this reader folks!

It’s double review time. I love being able to review the same series on one review. Everything is so fresh in your mind, and the subtle hints that you can find in a first book are more recognizable when you start the second. I like catching the little “I see what you did there” moments.

This review consists of the first two books in the “McIntire County” series by Winter Austin. I am really beginning to discover I like romantic suspense, and have to say that Winter really writes it well. These books also touch on what I consider near and dear to my heart .. PTSD. I really want to give high fives to Winter for researching this topic thoroughly, and giving it the proper respect it deserves. I personally found that this complimented her characters wisely, and while PTSD has been debilitating in many ways, she has shown that her characters can fight through it with the right kind of acceptance, love and support. LOVE THAT Winter Austin .. SERIOUSLY! 🙂

Let’s get on with it shall we?

____________________

9781440591136cvr.inddBOOK 1 – Atonement
McIntire County #1
by Winter Austin
Genre: romantic, suspense
Release Date:May 18, 2015

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Description

Atone for your sins…
A rash of unexplained suicides in the sleepy town of Eider, Iowa, draws McIntire County deputy Nicolette Rivers into a devious killer’s twisted plot. A former marine sniper suffering from PTSD, Nic hides her own deadly secrets, and The Priest will do anything to expose it and her.

For redemption is at hand…
Eider police detective Con O’Hanlon is assigned to help Nic uncover the truth behind the suicides. She rebuffs his help at every turn, but the stubborn Irishman holds on. When tragedy strikes, Con helps cover up the fallout, but is he too late to prevent Nic’s dark, downward spiral? Or is Con the one man stronger than her demons?

•••••••••••

Review

Oh Boy .. this girl has some serious daddy issues. LOL

The story introduces Nicolette Rivers (Nic) as a McIntire County deputy and a former marine sniper. She has seen some pretty crazy stuff out there and it has left her with many internal scars .. the biggest being PTSD. When she is placed in a situation that makes her PTSD come to the forefront, Nic must do all she can to deal with her issues. She is also estranged from her General father and the remainder of her family. She just wants to be left alone.

Con O’Hanlon is a police detective that has been assigned to work with Nic when a string of apparent suicides begin to occur. Once the suicides are established as murder, the killer begins to play with Nic a little, bringing more of her issue to surface. Nic is a hot mess trying to keep it together, and Con’s support and ultimately love may be the one life line she has to cling to .. regardless if she doesn’t know how to do it. On top of it all, here sister Cassy makes an appearance, and it turns out she has General daddy issues as well.

Ya .. so much more, but you have to dive right in to get to full effect. It’s an incredible story, and if I had to make any negative comment it would be that I thought it was a little too long. That being said, the story was extremely engaging and thought provoking.

____________________

Born to DieBOOK 2 – Born To Die
By Winter Austin
McIntire County #2
Release Date: March 28, 2016
Genre: romantic suspense

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Description

Trouble’s on the run in rural Eider, Iowa, and Deputy Cassy Rivers’s heart is in the line of fire. Two years ago, she barely escaped a harrowing experience at the hands of a maniac—and not without scars. Now a series of random robberies leads to the brutal death of a fellow officer, and she must put her trust in the one man who broke her heart.

FBI agent Boyce Hunt knows commitment isn’t for men with pasts like his. He left Cassy once to protect her from the blackmail and manipulation he faces from his mother’s criminal enterprise. But when they reluctantly partner up to capture the modern Bonnie and Clyde terrorizing McIntire County, their attraction flames to life once more, pulling Boyce between two loyalties.

Will they risk their hearts again, even if it means losing everything?

••••••••••••

Review

We got to meet both characters here, highlighted in this book Atonement. So glad that Winter has written this and that I got to read this book right after her first one. I was still raw from the story and wanted more.

Cassy Rivers is Nic’s sister and a also a deputy. She helps her sis in the first book solve a case but this came at a heavy price. It didn’t help that the hot FBI agent that came to play is a complete jerkface, and her attraction to him has not diminished. She figures this out when he is back to help solve and track a couple of robbers.

Boyce Hunt is a jerkface. Straight up! He doesn’t get close to anyone, is all in for good time without labels, and comes from his own set of “Oh that’s why you are a jerkface!” He also totally got under my skin. When Boyce returns to McIntire Country, he is paired up with the smexy Cassy. He is all about reconnecting, but this time his past is an issue and things are getting awfully real with Cassy in romance department.

I LOVED this pairing. We got to understand Cassy a bit in the previous book, but Boyce has his own story that really set root in this novel. We did get to revisit Nic and Con and see what their future looks like, an I love that many characters has bigger roles in this book than they did in the first. I found myself needing the story to pick up the pace a little as there some slow parts, but when the speed pics up it’s well worth it!

Overall, I will absolutely read more by Winter Austin and I will also visit more authors that write romantic suspence. So if you are looking for a couple of awesome reads for the summer, that involves romance with a thrilling mystery, well developed storyline and characters, I would recommend these two in a heartbeat!!

HAPPY READING!

Copies supplied by the author

Reviewed by Rachel T.

Excerpt

She had avoided any chance of entering the timbered areas of McIntire County, where the stuff of nightmares dwelt.
But not tonight.
Tonight nothing that mattered to her—not her family, her past, or her pride—was as important as doing her job. And damn it, Deputy Cassandra Rivers always did her job, even when it was obvious the orders might get her killed.
She and her squad-car partner, Deputy Deacon Nash, had been sent to this side of the county—the heavily wooded side—to patrol for the culprits who’d dared to rob a bank yesterday. With every mile she traveled through the darkened timbers, sweat seeped from her pores, saturating the first layer of clothing.
“Calling all units. Robbery in progress at the Speedy Mart, 1653 Elm St., Two unidentified suspects, wearing dark clothing and black sneakers. Suspects are armed. No sirens or lights.”
“10-4, dispatch. Rivers and Nash responding. Approximately nine minutes out, over.”
Thank God for small miracles. She yanked that car around, and as fast as the slick road conditions would allow, she sped back toward town.
“Easy, Rivers. We’re one of several units responding,” Nash warned.
Damn this crappy weather. No doubt the gas station attendant wasn’t in a situation to wait for whoever was less convenient to arrive at the rescue.
A few miles from the edge of town, the glare of headlights seemed to come out of nowhere. It took Cassy’s brain a few seconds to realize that the oncoming vehicle was veering back and forth between her lane and the other, and those lights were a lot closer than they first appeared.
“Shit!” She reacted without thinking, hitting the brakes and throwing the car into neutral, and braced for impact, hoping the cow kicker covering the grill did its job to protect them. “Hang on!”
The front wheels hit a slick patch, and suddenly the steering wheel jerked right and the car skidded off the road into the ditch. The nose dove into a snowbank, spraying the windshield with a powdery shower and bringing the vehicle to a rapid stop. Cassy jerked in her seat, the belt locking her tightly in its grip. Glaring at the whooshing wipers as they cleared the moisture from the glass, she unclenched her fingers from around the steering wheel.
“Rivers, you okay?” Nash asked.
“Fine, but pissed off.” Shifting the car into park, she left the engine going and removed her belt. “Those assholes are going to be in for a surprise.” She hit the lights, and as she tried to push her door open, it stuck in the snow.
Nash grabbed the mic and radioed dispatch. “Dispatch, be advised, responding unit has been in an accident and is in need of assistance, over.”
Cassy twisted in her seat to brace her feet against the door and forced it open wide enough for her to squeeze out.
“Copy that,” she heard the dispatcher reply as she fumbled through the drift. Nash would give their location.
Flashlight in hand, she scanned the area, making sure not to peer into the stand of trees at her back. Oh, how nice. The asshole who’d ran them off the road hadn’t bothered to stop and was now a faint red glow in the distance. The mound they’d plowed into was mid-calf deep, and by the looks of the tires, the car was stuck good. They’d need a wrecker. Upon making another pass toward the road, the flashlight beam glinted off metal. Cassy paused, her heart hurtling into her throat as the light revealed the secret in the dark.

About The author

Winter AustinFollow: Goodreads / Website / Twitter / Facebook

Winter Austin perpetually answers the question: “were you born in the winter?” with a flat “nope.” Having returned to her hometown, Winter has stepped into the chaotic world of a full-time wife, mom, author, and employee.

A lifelong Mid-West gal, Winter rediscovered her love of her beloved Iowa with its hot summers and snowy winters. She grew up listening to the captivating stories told by relatives around the table or a campfire. Since becoming a published author, she learned a mindset of a glass half-empty personality makes for a perfect suspense/thriller author. Taking her ability to verbally spin a vivid and detailed story, Winter translated that into writing deadly romantic thrillers. Combining her love of all things rural, agricultural, and military, she’s turned her small town life upside down.

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Indiana Belle (American Journey #3) by John A. Heldt-a review

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Indiana Belle (American Journey #3) by John A. Heldt-a review

Indiana Belle

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 14, 2016

Providence, Rhode Island, 2017. When doctoral student Cameron Coelho, 28, opens a package from Indiana, he finds more than private papers that will help him with his dissertation. He finds a photograph of a beautiful society editor murdered in 1925 and clues to a century-old mystery. Within days, he meets Geoffrey Bell, the “time-travel professor,” and begins an unlikely journey through the Roaring Twenties. Filled with history, romance, and intrigue, INDIANA BELLE follows a lonely soul on the adventure of a lifetime as he searches for love and answers in the age of Prohibition, flappers, and jazz.

REVIEW

5 out of 5 for this reader folks!

INSERT LARGE PIC OF EMPTY TISSUE BOX …. Sniff … oh boy that was an absolute fantastic book!

Indiana Belle by John Heldt is a time traveling/mystery/suspense/history/romance novel that happens to be the third book in his “American Journey”series .. oh and it’s really really good. While this novel can be read alone, please read the first two books an then pick up the rest of John’s books while you are at it. Aside from Outlander, I am not a time travel fan, and John Heldt has made me a believer in this genre. I am a history lover however, and every time I read his books, I am swept right back in time with the main character. He hits upon some serious history in the 1920’s when prohibition and jazz were in full swing, and the KKK was rampant.

Cameron Coelho is a student collecting research on a project. He opens a package that was sent his way only to find the most captivating image of a woman who existed in 1925. Candice Bell is this woman who worked as an Society Editor in 1925, and Cameron cannot shake that he needs to dig deeper in the past. You see, Candice became a murder victim and her case was never solved. Digging deeper has lead Cameron to good ole professor Geoffrey Bell (notice victim and professor share the same last name) .. the time travelling professor.

Deals are struck and before we know it, Cameron is back in 1925 (I do it no justice in this simple sentence, but if I were to write out what this story entailed, I would have written my own version of it as it cannot be summed up so easy) and begins to track down his source. Here is where the problem lies with time travel though … what happens when you are placed in a situation where everything inside you wants to change the history you know is going to happen. What kind of aftermath has to be dealt with in order to save a life .. a life you grow to love?

So full of angst .. but really solid, hearty angst, not teeny bopper angst. I have to applaud John for hitting his mark every single time he releases a book. I felt every possible emotion he wanted me to feel, and his heros/heroines are so unbelievably rich in character you have no choice but to feel a connection to them. But it is not all that, that sticks out. It’s the attention to detail he offers by inserting his story in a true piece of history and enabling it to thrive. When you are in 2017 .. that is where you are. When you go back with Cameron to 1925, you see the styles, taste the drink, dance the steps and fear the KNOWN.

Thank you John for allowing me to be part of your creative world. You excite me with a new release as I kind of know what I can expect by now .. then you offer me more!

If you are a time traveling fan, John Heldt is a perfect fit for you. If you like suspense, romance, mystery .. he does that too! LOL

HAPPY READING! 🙂

Reading Order and previous reviews
September Sky
Mercer Street
Indiana Belle

Copy Supplied by the author

Reviewed by Rachel T

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Blast from the Past: Devil’s Daughter by Catherine Coulter-a review

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Blast from the Past: Devil’s Daughter (Devil #2) by Catherine Coulter-a review

Blast From the Past

Welcome to a new feature at The Reading Cafe-BLAST FROM THE PAST-a look back at some of the oldies but goodies in the world of literary romance and ‘bodice-ripper- style novels. Our second installment is DEVIL’S DAUGHTER by Catherine Coulter. Please enjoy Rachel’s review and tell us about some of your favorite romance story lines from the past.

Devil’s Daughter
Devil #2
by Catherine Coulter
Release Date: 1985

Devil's Daughter

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A Note from the Author

Dear Reader:

Devil’s Daughter is the story of Adam and Arabella Welles, the son and daughter of Cassie and Anthony Welles. I have updated the book, since, like Devil’s Embrace, it came out a while ago and needed some tidying up. It has a charming new cover, blend of the old and the new.

Adam has enjoyed women but hasn’t yet found the woman created just for him. As for Arabella, she is as independent and strong-willed as her brother and her parents. When both brother and sister go adventuring in Naples to solve a mystery of their father’s missing ships and cargoes, they discover that the person behind this thievery is an enemy from their father’s past. This enemy manages to drug Arabella and pack her off to a harem in North Africa, Adam in pursuit.

But Adam isn’t alone, there’s a stowaway with him he certainly doesn’t expect. Her name is Rayna Lyndhurst, daughter of a man who is dead set against the Welles family. But do children ever pay attention to their parents?

Arabella finds the harem a frightening yet fascinating place, a golden prison from which there is little chance of escape. Her master is Kamal, the Bey of Oran, a man who must be her enemy but who is unlike any man she has ever known. As for Kamal, he suddenly finds himself faced with a woman willing to fight him to the death — a woman who both bewitches and infuriates him.

I hope you enjoy the adventures of Adam and Rayna, Arabella and Kamal. These are people I’ll never forget.

Catherine Coulter (The Author)

REVIEW

4.5 out of 5 for this reader folks!

Devils’ Daughter by Catherine Coulter (first pubbed 1985), is the second featured book of BLAST FROM THE PAST here at The Reading Cafe, and also the sequel to the first one named Devil’s Embrace, that I did last month. Again, I will warn off anyone who is triggered by any kinds of stereotypical bodice rippers elements (such as non/con, kidnapping, rape and blustery story line). I think these kind of books are in a class all on their own and appreciate that some may think they are overly abusive in many ways. I happen to like the uninhibited, lay it out dirty, not pretty but it’ll come together if you give it a chance layers that are displayed. I am also an serious emotional reader and I find a good bodice ripper novel really brings the emotions out of me.

We were given the romance of Cassie and Anthony Welles in Devil’s Embrace. In Devil’s Daughter, we are actually given two love stories as opposed to one, that feature Cassie and Anthony’s son (Adam) and daughter (Arabella). Set in early 1800’s. both Adam and Arabella travel to meet up with their father Anthony, only to be told that thieving has become as issue in their father’s merchant company. Turns out there is quite a tangled web that has been intentional weaved to destroy the Welles family. The enemies happen to be members of family that were the “villains” in the first book. Turns out past grudges are passed on to future generations.

While trying to locate the culprits, traps are set to involve the Welles siblings in a plot to being their father to his knees. Arabella is kidnapped and sent to be a “whore” in a harem. This was interesting as Arabella is one heck of a spit fire and fights with harem leader Kamal tooth and nail. Despite the abuse, be it physical and emotional, both manage to find a sharp edge of love with each other. While his sister is in her own “mini drama”, Adam sets off to unravel more mystery for his father only to find a stowaway on his ship. Turns out this is Rayna who happens to be the daughter of a viscount who really ticked off Adam’s parents in the the first book. Are you dizzy yet readers?? LOL Chance is afforded for a romance to begin and certainly take off between Adam and Rayna. Not as blustery as Arabella and Kamal, Adam and Rayna still meet with their own obstacles and challenges which make for good reading.

Seriously, there is so much story going on I cannot get into it without writing out my own book, so this review really is just scratching the surface. I did not find this book as “violent” as the first one was and it was a little slow to start. Once it took off though .. wonderful! I would absolutely recommend reading the first one or there will be just way too much missed in this book. There is lots of drama to be had, some tear shedding “that was a douchy thing to do” moments, forgiveness, LUST and PASSION, hate and love. I loved that this was a continuation of a story that really stuck with me.

If you are looking for a great bodice ripper series, Devil by Catherine Coulter is a great one to indulge in. Just know you are going to get a whole lot of crazy thrown at you .. I happen to love a good dose of crazy, every now and then!

HAPPY READING! 🙂

Reviewed by Rachel

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Luck is No Lady by Amy Sandas -Review, Guest Post & Giveaway

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Luck is No Lady by Amy Sandas-Review, Guest Post & Giveaway

Luck is No Lady Banner

LUCK IS NO LADY
Fallen Ladies #1
by Amy Sandas
Release Date: April 5, 2016
Genre: Historical, romance

Luck is no Lady

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 5, 2016

“You should not have kissed me,” she replied breathlessly.
“I do a lot of things I shouldn’t. It does not mean I won’t do them again.”

Gently bred Emma Chadwick always assumed she’d live and die the daughter of a gentleman. But when her father’s death reveals a world of staggering debt and dangerous moneylenders, she must risk her good name and put her talent for mathematics to use, taking a position as bookkeeper at London’s most notorious gambling hell. Surrounded by vice and corruption on all sides, it is imperative no one discovers Emma’s shameful secret or her reputation-and her life-will be ruined.

But Roderick Bentley, the hell’s sinfully wealthy owner, awakens a hunger Emma cannot deny. Drawn deep into an underworld of high stakes gambling and reckless overindulgence, she soon discovers that in order to win the love of a ruthless scoundrel, she will have to play the game…and give in to the pleasure of falling from grace.

•••••••••

REVIEW: 4.5 out of 5 for this reader folks!

My goodness that was a really good historical romance! 🙂

Luck is No Lady (love this title) by Amy Sandas (high five to another newly discovered author added to my “go to list”) is the first book of her series called “Fallen Ladies”. With a series called Fallen Ladies, and set in a time when ladies were held to a strict code of conduct, my inner rule breaking bad girl, just couldn’t resist this book. So glad I didn’t too! 🙂

Emma Chadwick is the heroine of this story and can be easily described as one well smart (especially with numbers) proper lady. She is the oldest of 3 daughters (and believes herself to be over seasoned for marriage) and takes on the responsibility of her late father’s gambling debts. In hopes of securing good marriages and proper prospects for her sisters, Emma must take a walk on the wild side in order to pay these debts off. Having been brought up in polite society, taking on employment as a gambling hell’s book keeper certainly is not the future she had envisioned. Emma is a character that is really easy to adore as she just really grabs the bull by the horns, is really smart, innocent and sweet, but cunning and witty when needed to be. Her loyalty and determination shine very brightly throughout this story!

Roderick Bentley is the owner of this gambling establishment and also considered a bastard to the members of the ton. Not letting this define his character or his life, Roderick mixes well with the ton by establishing a lucrative place for these members to sin, drink and gamble (the hypocrisy of this always makes me laugh ..lol). Roderick is very handsome, certainly wealthy and despite his title of bastard, has pretty much turned all the odds in his favour with hard work and smarts.

These two were so well matched. They both are endearing and from the first intimate stolen moment to the agreement to be employer/employee, their blossoming romance was that “feel good right from your head to your toes”, “silly smiley grin on my face while reading”. It was REFRESHING! I am all about having a arrogant arse as a hero, but Roderick was anything but … if he was an arse there was a reason .. he is one of my fave book boyfriends of 2016 so far. These two had honesty, friendship, laughs, hot yummy you know what and “I got your back” moments.

My only complaint is it was a little slow to start! Once it took off though .. WHAM .. hello story! Sorry that is all I am going to give you, you have to read the book for more!

Can I just have a moment with you here .. can you just go and admire that gorgeous cover?? Right??? Ya, I loved it too! SIGH!

Well done Amy Sandas! I will most definitely be eagerly awaiting the next book (which maybe is the next sister??). Highly recommend this book to my fellow historical romance readers!

HAPPY READING! 🙂

Reviewed by Rachel T

Copy supplied by the publisher through Netgalley

 

Guest Post

What is your ideal way to spend a Saturday?

Easy! A Saturday where I didn’t have laundry to do and had someone else to do the cooking would be amazing.

I work a Monday through Friday job and have three kids that require a lot of attention in the evenings, so most, if not all, of my housework gets saved up for the weekend. Three kids can create an astounding amount of dirty laundry in a week! And then there’s my husband, a man who can fix just about anything and loves to do any sort of work outside. However, when it comes to the kitchen, he excels at making mac-n-cheese, but not much else.

It’s not that I don’t like to cook. I do, but I will also say that one of my favorite ways to treat myself is go out to eat, where I can sit and enjoy a glass of wine or a craft beer while the food is being readied and I don’t have to worry about clean-up. Heaven!
Now, back to an ideal Saturday…

I would wake up early as I always do and get some writing time in before anyone else gets up. The earliest hours are quiet, dark, and perfectly suited to my muse. Writing would have to be a part of any ideal day, that’s a given. Once everyone else is up and about, I would venture from my office to make a big breakfast. Since weekday mornings are busy as everyone is getting ready for their day, breakfast tends to be quick and simple; usually cereal. When the weekend comes, I enjoy making a real breakfast and often get a little help from my son or my youngest. They both love to mix the pancake batter.

The rest of the day would depend on the time of year. I live in Wisconsin where the weather varies significantly from summer to winter. If we were talking a winter Saturday, I could see spending the day enjoying a family movie marathon, maybe Star Wars, or The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings, or Back to the Future. Someone else would be in charge of making lunch, after which I’d have a chance to sit and read a good book. Uninterrupted. Then time to get dressed up (a rare occasion) and head out for a romantic dinner date with the husband.

For an ideal summer Saturday, we would all head out as a family, either on our bikes or for a long walk, to a park we like to go to that has trails through the woods and along the river where the kids can do a little nature exploration. Lunch would be a packed picnic before we head home again to hang out in the back yard. My husband and I can sit in our chairs under the maple tree while the kids splash in the pool. For dinner, we’d head somewhere we can eat outside so we don’t waste even a moment to enjoy the weather. (Summers are lovely in Wisconsin, but fleeting!) The evening would be spent around our backyard fire pit, making s’mores and listening to my husband play guitar.

I know it all probably sounds terribly mundane, but with our busy family, there is no doubt about it—Saturdays are precious. Getting to spend time together, without any interfering obligations, would be ideal in any season.

~~Amy~~

About The Author

Follow: Website / Twitter /Facebook / Goodreads

Amy SandasAmy Sandas’s love of romance began one summer when she stumbled across one of her mother’s Barbara Cartland books. Her affinity for writing began with sappy pre-teen poems and led to a Bachelor’s degree with an emphasis on Creative Writing from the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities. She lives with her husband and children near Milwaukee.

giveaway

Amy’s publisher is graciously offering a paper copy of LUCK IS NO LADY 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 Amy Sandas on Facebook.

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

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8. Giveaway open to USA only

10. Giveaway runs from April 9-12, 2016

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