TUCKER by Emily March – Blog Tour: Review and Giveaway

TUCKER

by

Emily March

SYNOPSIS

From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Emily March comes the second book in the Eternity Springs: The McBrides of Texas trilogy, TUCKER (St. Martin’s Paperbacks, February 25, 2020, $7.99). Two business owners come head-to-head in a feud with tulle and grit in this passionate story. This tale shows that even when life changes from the stress of a military career to working next to a wedding planner, love always finds a way to begin, even if it was never thought possible.

Meet Gillian Thacker. Her business: Bliss Bridal Salon. Her passion: Weddings. Her own wedding: It’s complicated. Life isn’t turning out like she’d planned. The last thing she wants is for a real-life hero to ride to her rescue, but an unexpected event puts her entire future in Redemption, Texas, at risk. So what’s a brokenhearted bridal expert to do? Maybe a new set of survival skills is exactly what she needs …

Tucker McBride has been proud to call himself a U.S. Army Ranger. But now that his days of service are over, he’s decided to put his expertise to use by founding a wilderness skills training school. He sets up shop in Redemption, next to Bliss Bridal, and so begins life: Part Two. Marriage has been pretty low on his agenda, but as soon as he meets Gillian, Tucker can’t help but contemplate the ultimate challenge: Convincing the reluctant bride to take his hand and leap into the adventure of a lifetime . . . until death do them part.

Buy-Book Links:

Macmillan – Amazon – Barnes & Noble

Books-A-Million – Indie Bound – Powell’s

ABOUT EMILY

Emily March is the New York Times, Publishers Weekly, and USA Today bestselling author of over thirty novels, including the critically acclaimed Eternity Springs series. Publishers Weekly calls March a “master of delightful banter,” and her heartwarming, emotionally charged stories have been named to Best of the Year lists by Publishers Weekly, Library Journal, and Romance Writers of America.

A graduate of Texas A&M University, Emily is an avid fan of Aggie sports and her recipe for jalapeño relish has made her a tailgating legend.

Twitter: @emilymarchbooks
Facebook: @emilymarchbooks
Instagram: @emilymarchbooks
Author Website: https://emilymarch.com/
Macmillan Author Page: https://us.macmillan.com/author/emilymarch

REVIEW

Two of the things I admire most about Emily March’s writing are her great sense of place and her authentic “voice” for her male characters. Texan readers can immediately recognize references to state favorites like Buc-ee’s and Dr. Pepper and take sides in the rivalries between college football teams. The characterization of Tucker, Jackson, Boone, even Jeremy is believable. Their language sounds real.

I found myself charmed by both Tucker and Gillian from the start. I enjoyed their meet-cute and was invested immediately in their happy ending. Of course, the path to happily-ever-after is never smooth and we have to contend with an ongoing relationship that had to be resolved first before our pair is matched with each other.

I loved the strength of friendships and family relationships that run in these Eternity Springs books. I prefer it when the protagonists in the stories I read have a reliable support system. In this story, Gillian has her mother and her best friends while Tucker counts on his cousins.

Another aspect of the book I enjoyed so much is the competence porn – Tucker’s survival skills workshop was quite informative and incredibly useful in real life. I really appreciate a book that educates at the same time that it entertains.

As with the previous book, the scenes away from Redemption are not my favorites., although the Vegas portion was quite fun and the visits to Eternity Springs in Colorado were necessary for the plot to move along. The number of named characters are more manageable here than in Jackson. There’s still a lot, but not as many as in the previous book.

Overall, I really enjoyed Tucker. It is light and entertaining with enough conflict to make things interesting. I’m excited to see how Emily writes Boone’s intriguing story.

GIVEAWAY

Macmillan is giving away a paperback copy of Tucker to one of my readers. All you have to do to enter is visit my column at Lone Star Literary Life called Texas Reads Roundup: Romance where I featured this book and tell me in the comments below if you’ve done so. I’ll draw the winner on Tuesday, March 3 at 12 noon Central Time.

AN EVERYDAY HERO by Laura Trentham – Blog Tour: Review and Giveaway

AN EVERYDAY HERO

Book 2, Heart of a Hero Series

Laura Trentham

SYNOPSIS

From award-winning author Laura Trentham comes An Everyday Hero, an emotionally layered novel about redemption, second chances and discovering that life is worth fighting for.

At thirty, Greer Hadley never expected to be forced home to Madison, Tennessee with her life and dreams of being a songwriter up in flames. To make matters worse, a series of bad decisions and even crappier luck lands her community service hours at a nonprofit organization that aids veterans and their families. Greer cannot fathom how she’s supposed to use music to help anyone deal with their trauma and loss when the one thing that brought her joy has failed her.

When Greer meets fifteen-year-old Ally Martinez, her plans to stay detached and do as little as possible get thrown away. New to town and dealing with the death of her father in action, she hides her emotions behind a mask of bitterness and sarcasm, but Greer is able to see past it and recognizes pieces of who she once was in Ally. The raw and obvious talent she possesses could take her to the top and Greer vows to make sure life’s negativities don’t derail Ally’s potential.

After Greer is assigned a veteran to help, she’s not surprised Emmett Lawson, the town’s golden boy, followed his family’s legacy. What leaves her shocked is the shell of a man who believes he doesn’t deserve anyone’s help. A breakthrough with Ally reminds Greer that no one is worth giving up on. So she shows up one day with his old guitar and meets Emmett’s rage head on with her stubbornness. When a situation with Ally becomes dire, the two of them must become a team to save her—and along the way, they might just save themselves too.

Buy it here:

Macmillan / Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Books-A-Million / Indie Bound / Powell’s

REVIEW

An immensely enjoyable read, An Everyday Hero elicits both laughter and tears. Ms. Trentham’s development of the story and the characters can only be described as skillful. She achieved a balance between humor and angst that I found utterly delightful.

Despite all of Greer’s setbacks, she remains funny and caring. Once roused from his wallowing, Emmett turns out to be an adorable hero. I love that both started out as messed up but once they rekindled their friendship, they started to heal and support each other in finding their purpose. Their sparkling banter made their dialogues fun to read. Their chemistry is obvious from the beginning and it’s easy to follow how they transitioned from friends to lovers.

“An anchor weighs you down. Keeps you in one place. Why would you want to be with someone like that? You should be with someone who encourages you to fly.”

Ally’s story is heartbreaking and far too real among military kids. I appreciate the way Ms. Trentham incorporated music in getting her to open up to Greer. The most important of the secondary characters, Ally is edgy and sympathetic at the same time.

The author really captured the essence of a Southern small town from the sweet tea to the busybodies to the country music. I also really loved the roles family and friends played in assuring that the story concludes happily.

I found this book highly-entertaining and recommend it to readers of romance and women’s fiction.

Content advisory – battle scenes in a nightmare and retelling.

Heat level – low (kisses only)

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

LAURA TRENTHAM is an award-winning author of contemporary and historical romance. The Military Wife is her debut women’s fiction novel. A chemical engineer by training and a lover of books by nature, she lives in South Carolina.

GIVEAWAY

Macmillan is generously giving a paperback copy of An Everyday Hero to one of my lucky readers. All you have to do to qualify in a random draw is Like and Comment on this post and Follow this blog if you haven’t done so yet. I will announce the winner on Tuesday, February 11 at 12 noon Central time

THE MAIL ORDER BRIDE’S SECRET by Linda Broday – Book Blog Tour: Review and Giveaway

THE MAIL ORDER
BRIDE’S SECRET
Outlaw’s Mail Order Bride,
Book Three

by

LINDA BRODAY

Genre: Historical Western Romance
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca
Publication Date: January 28, 2020
Number of Pages: 352 pages

SCROLL DOWN FOR THE GIVEAWAY!

When the West was wild and man’s law favored the few, these extraordinary women could be found…in the heart of an outlaw.

When three young children show up on outlaw Tait Trinity’s doorstep, he knows he can’t help them―a wanted man has no business raising kids. And yet he can’t bring himself to turn them away. At a loss, he sends for the mail order bride he’d been writing to, hoping the demure dressmaker will be the answer to his prayers.

Melanie Dunbar is nothing like the bride Tait was expecting. She’s rough and tumble … and hiding an ulterior motive. Dangerous men have taken her sister hostage, and if Melanie wants to see her alive, she’ll have to betray her new husband. There’s only one problem―the more time she spends with Tait, the more she comes to care for him. Yet as the noose begins to tighten, Melanie will have to make a terrible choice: save her sister … or the man she loves.

PURCHASE THE BOOK
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Heart-pounding action from the deadly beginning to the daring rescue in the end. With her justice-seeking outlaw hero Tait and brave mail-order bride heroine Melanie, Ms. Broday once again gave readers an exhilarating tale of romance, family (both blood and found), and community amidst the lawless landscape of the Old West.

“I want someone to share my life with–the sunshine, the storms, and the days when everything seems just about perfect.”

What began as an unwilling deception on Mellie’s part and helpless desperation on Tait’s developed into heated desire and a love so strong they’re both willing to lay down their lives for the other. I really liked the slow build-up of the relationship between these two main characters. There was an instant attraction but they didn’t act on it until they were already wed. I appreciate the choice to have Mellie confess her deception mid-way into the story. Had her false act gone on too long without Tait knowing would have disappointed me and made me enjoy the story less. Even more so if he found out before she told him. That speaks so well about Ms. Broday’s expertise in crafting an engaging tale.

“I’ve found out that love is like the flow of a river–constant, something that fills up all the aching, empty places.”

I think this book is well-balanced in that the heavy elements are lightened by funny bits especially from the antics of the twins Joe and Jesse and their adorable sister Becky. What a scene-stealer! I also liked seeing characters from previous books featured to move Tait and Mellie’s story along without overpowering them. I suspect (and hope) that a couple of the secondary characters will have their full-length stories made and I am looking forward to reading them.

While I enjoyed the majority of the book, there were a few things that had me knocking down some points in my overall rating. I had to suspend disbelief with the speed of the telegram system they have in place, the convenient coincidences, and the ease in which the rescue was accomplished. Also, the villains needed more dimension in their characterization.

Content advisory: There’s plenty of gun violence in this book. This is a historical western novel and new readers should be aware of the numerous on-page shooting and taking of life scenes.

PRAISE FOR THE MAIL ORDER BRIDE’S SECRET:

“This is another page-turning period romance from Broday.” Publisher’s Weekly

“Broday does a fabulous job of telling a story filled with humor, angst and some candid truths just so we don’t romanticize this period in our history.” Fresh Fiction

“This book was absolutely mesmerizing with nonstop action, full of laughter, tears and just a downright good Old fashioned Wild West story as only Linda Broday can do.” Glenda (Goodreads reviewer)

I’m a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of over twenty historical western romance novels and short stories. I reside in the Texas Panhandle on land the American Indian and Comancheros once roamed, and at times if the breeze is just right, I can hear their voices whispering in the wind. Texas’ rich history is one reason I set all my stories here where cowboys are still caretakers of the land. I’m inspired every day by their immense dedication and love for the wide-open spaces.

When I’m not writing, I collect old coins and I’ve also been accused (quite unfairly I might add) of making a nuisance of myself at museums, libraries, and historical places. I’m also a movie buff and love sitting in a dark theater, watching the magic unfold on the screen. As long as I’m confessing…chocolate is my best friend. It just soothes my soul.

║ WEBSITE ║ FACEBOOK ║ PINTEREST ║
║TWITTER ║ GOODREADS ║ LINKEDIN ║ BOOKBUB ║

————————————-

GIVEAWAY! GIVEAWAY! GIVEAWAY!

Three Winners
1st: $25 Amazon Gift Card; 2nd: Autographed Set of All 3 Books in the Series; 3rd: Autographed Copy of The Mail Order Bride’s Secret.

January 28-February 7, 2020
(US Addresses only)

Click on the photo to enter the giveaway.

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VISIT THE OTHER GREAT BLOGS ON THE TOUR:

1/28/20 	Notable Quotable 	All the Ups and Downs 
1/28/20		BONUS Post 		Hall Ways Blog 
1/29/20		Excerpt			That's What She's Reading
1/30/20		Review 			Carpe Diem Chronicles
1/31/20 	Review 			Chapter Break Book Blog
2/1/20 		Character Interview 	It's Not All Gravy
2/2/20	 	Top Ten List		Storeybook Reviews
2/3/20 		Review	 		Books & Broomsticks
2/4/20 		Series Spotlight	Jennifer Silverwood
2/5/20 		Review		 	Missus Gonzo
2/6/20 		Review	 		Reading by Moonlight

blog tour services provided by:

ROUGHED IN by Eva Moore – Release Day Review and Giveaway

Blurb:

Frankie’s Punch-Out List:
1. Finalize plans to takeover Valenti Brothers Construction.
2. Nail this vineyard renovation in spite of it being cursed.
3. Prove to the world that I’m more than the comic relief.
4. Make out with my director on top of a bar.

Wait, how’d that last one get on there? But, as long as it’s on the list…

Frankie Valenti has always dreamed of taking over the family construction business. But as the baby of the family, and a girl to boot, she’s constantly having to prove her ability. Now everything she’s worked for hinges on one project, a made-for-TV vineyard renovation. She’s got to nail this, and not her infuriating but smoking hot director if she’s going to win her father’s trust. If life would just follow her damn blueprints, everything would be fine. But we all know how often that happens…

Jake Ryland will do whatever it takes to move his reputation from child actor burnout to celebrated director, up to and including manipulating “reality” to make the best shows possible. He’s never felt bad about it before, but there’s something about Frankie that makes him want to lift her up, instead of tearing her down. And if he happens to pin her to the wall while lifting her up, well, then everybody wins. Except for his execs who want to see her fail and owe them $100,000. Crap. He’s so screwed.

Rough and tumble hookups are one thing, but can they turn into a stable foundation for a relationship? Or will the whole structure crumble under the weight of pride and ambition?

Find out in this satisfying conclusion to the Exposed Dreams series.

Buy Links:

Amazon – https://www.amazon.com/dp/B082KJD15P
iTunes – https://books.apple.com/us/book/roughed-in/id1490982360
Kobo – https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/roughed-in
Barnes and Noble – https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/roughed-in-eva-moore/1135472540?ean=2940163412310
Smashwords – https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/994808
My Reading List – https://books2read.com/rl/EvaMooreReadingList

Review:

An emotionally satisfactory, (literally) fiery, and fanning-myself sexy ending to a wonderful series.

When the Exposed Dreams books started, I knew nothing about home improvement or make-up tutorial shows. After book 3, I still don’t know much but Eva’s incredible talent and immersive storytelling style had me entertained and educated at the same time. Competence porn for the win!

I love functional family storylines in books, whether found or by blood. Roughed In has both with the Valentis and Jake’s TV show family. What’s great is that the numerous secondary characters rightfully supported the two leads and nobody came out as distracting or overpowering. The focus remained on the main couple and I really like that.

I also really like the character development for both Frankie and Jake. The shift in their thinking from the beginning to the end flowed naturally, realistically. I like that they didn’t change who they are, just grew in the acquisition of a wider perspective that included them both. I appreciate them better when I know their strengths and vulnerabilities.

The book shines best when Frankie and Jake are in the scenes together, striking sparks off each other. It’s when they are apart that the book falters slightly with too much introspection. I don’t mind the quick resolution, I just wish there are more explanations and future planning because I care what happens to them. Eva made me care as if these people are real. That’s talent, I tell you.

I eagerly await Eva’s future works. For sure they’re going to be fantastic. Her writing keeps getting better and better with each book. She has become an auto-buy for me.

Review Spots:

Goodreads –https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/48985780-roughed-in
BookBub – https://www.bookbub.com/books/roughed-in-exposed-dreams-book-3-by-eva-moore

Teasers:

Giveaway:

I’m giving away a Kindle eBook copy of Roughed In to one lucky winner. To enter, all you have to do is Like and Comment with your favorite reality show. I will draw the winner on Tuesday, February 4 at 12nn Central. Check back here to see if you won.

Author Bio:

Eva Moore writes sweet and sexy contemporary romances featuring compelling characters finding love in the modern world. Pulling up her Chicagoland roots, she has chased adventures around the globe, with stints in France and Singapore. Eva now lives in California (at the wine end, not the movie end) with her college sweetheart, three gorgeous kiddos, and a Shih Tzu who thinks he’s a cat. She loves hearing from the outside world while she’s hiding in her writing cave/closet. Please visit her at www.4evamoore.com.

Social Media Links:

Facebook Author Page: www.facebook.com/4evamooreauthor
Facebook Friend Page: www.facebook.com/4evamoore
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/FriendsForEvaMoore/
Twitter: www.twitter.com/AuthorEvaMoore
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/authorevamoore
Instagram: www.instagram.com/authorevamoore

SOMETHING REAL by Allegra Johnson – Happy Release Day Review

SOMETHING REAL

by

Allegra Johnson

SYNOPSIS

Never say never.

For Taylyn, life has been a series of disappointments and heartache. Every relationship she’s had has ended in tears … and the occasional restraining order. Swearing to never get into another relationship, Taylyn is prepared to live the single life. So why is she drawn to the hometown hero who already hurt her once?

Wishful thinking.

Declan was destined for the NFL until a dirty hit took him out of the game for good. Before leaving for college, Declan shared one amazing kiss with the girl he always wanted but could never have. Now he’s back in Silverton rebuilding his life without football, and she’s single. This time he’s going to get the girl. He just needs to convince her he’s not like all the others.

Can Taylyn allow herself to believe in love again? Can Declan prove he’s the one made to love her? Will they find a love that is Something Real?

** Something Real, Silverton Series 1, contains subject matter that may be uncomfortable for some readers. Those subjects include mental illness, suicide, alcoholism through self-medication, sexual assault, and emotional abuse. **

Buy link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07XYDP1YN/

ABOUT ALLEGRA

After a lifetime of sharing headspace with an ever-growing cast of characters, Allegra threw caution to the wind and wrote a story. Since that day she’s been living her crazy author life writing love stories and happy endings. Originally from Massachusetts Allegra now resides in Southern California. When Allegra is not busy at work in her writing cave she enjoys spending time with her family, connection with her readers, procrastinating, and napping. You can usually find Allegra fluttering around Romancelandia trying to stay out of trouble while figuring out this author thing, one book at a time.

Social Media Links:

Facebook: (author page) https://fb.me/stumblingauthor
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allegra_johnson/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Allegra55302863
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/authorallegrajohnson/
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/allegra-johnson
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15276339.Allegra_Johnson
Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/profile/view/AllegraJohnson
Email: authorallegrajohnson@gmail.com

REVIEW

With her first full-length novel, Allegra Johnson tells an emotional story of a woman’s journey to self-acceptance and allowing love into her life. It’s a story of found family and true friendship.

While Something Real is categorized as a romance, it’s main focus is Taylyn, the female lead character. On one hand, her rash actions and defeatist thoughts make it difficult to like her; on another hand, the very same things make it easy to sympathize with her, especially after her horrific past is revealed. My heart ached for her the entire time I was reading the book and that’s a testament of how well Allegra wrote her character. Damaged and suffering from crippling mental health issues, Taylyn comes across as a real person, one who needs love, support, and understanding. I love that in this book there are people who provide exactly what she needs — her found family consisting of MacKenzie, Ella, and Autumn.

I also love that Declan was all-in right from the start and he never wavered in his determination to be part of Taylyn’s life. I only wish he has a bigger role in Taylyn’s path to sobriety although I recognize how that would be tough considering his ownership of a bar. Ultimately, it’s Taylyn’s resolve that has to manifest for such a transformation to happen.

Because of the dark themes, this book might not be for everyone. That’s a pity because Something Real is a darn good read.

NOME-O SEEKS JULIET by Katy Regnery – New Release Review

NOME-O SEEKS JULIET

An Odds-Are-Good Romance #2

by

Katy Regnery

SYNOPSIS

New York Times bestselling author Katy Regnery returns with the second book in her Odds-Are-Good series!

When a lonely vet(eran) and an ambitious vet(erinarian) work together to win the Qimmiq 200, sparks will fly …

Montana-born veterinary student, Juliet Sanderson, is disappointed when her project on the treatment and care of sled dogs falls through due to the illness of a local musher. In an effort to salvage her study and graduate, she answers the personal ad of Alaskan musher, Cody Garrison, who is desperately seeking a teammate for an upcoming co-ed race, The Qimmiq 200.

Cody Garrison, a retired U.S. Marine, doesn’t tell Juliet that he was left permanently disabled during his time in active service, fearing that she wouldn’t agree to race with him if she knew. But once she arrives in Alaska, discovering the truth about Cody’s past will be inevitable. Will the partnership they’ve agreed to, and the off-the-charts chemistry between them, be enough to see them through the rigors of training and secure them the win of their lives?

Buy Links:
Amazon: https://amzn.to/36pBdN9
Apple: https://apple.co/336uuG6
B & N: https://bit.ly/34gmuSU
Kobo: https://bit.ly/34h7y6Z

REVIEW

This is a fantastic return to form for Katy Regnery. Greatly aided by the same elements from The Vixen and the Vet that made me fall in love with her writing–memorable characters, compelling back story, evocative narration–Nome-o Seeks Juliet delivers a highly enjoyable read.

Once again, Katy created a swoon-worthy hero in Cody. He’s vulnerable yet strong at the same time. He made me love him with his earnest yearning to love and be loved and he made me cry with his caring for his sled dogs, especially his Viola. That scene near the end gutted me.

I thought at first that Juliet would not be able to measure up to Cody. Her initial plan to hide the truth of her study rubbed me the wrong way, but she changed my mind with the way she dealt with Glenn and her early admission of falling in love. I really appreciate the absence of push-and-pull. The way she expanded Cody’s world by inviting him to share her family won her huge points from me.

Another aspect I loved was the uniqueness of the scenario and setting–dog sled racing in Nome, Alaska. It’s obvious that Katy did a great deal of research because she brought this unfamiliar lifestyle to life in such a believable and fascinating manner, I was transported to its location.

Nome-o Seeks Juliet was a fun, quick, delightful read. Whereas I was lukewarm on this series before, I’m now looking forward to the rest of the books.

ABOUT KATY

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Katy Regnery started her writing career by enrolling in a short story class in January 2012. One year later, she signed her first contract, and Katy’s first novel was published in September 2013.

Over forty books later, Katy claims authorship of the multi-titled New York Times and USA Today bestselling Blueberry Lane Series, which follows the English, Winslow, Rousseau, Story, and Ambler families of Philadelphia; the seven-book, bestselling ~a modern fairytale~ series, including Katy’s “Beauty and the Beast” story, The Vixen and the Vet, which was a 2015 RITA© nominee; and several other stand-alone novels and novellas, including the critically-acclaimed, 2018 RITA© nominated, USA Today bestselling contemporary romance, Unloved, a love story.

Katy’s books are available in English, French, German, Italian, Polish, Portuguese and Turkish.

Author Links:
Website: https://www.katyregnery.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KatyRegnery/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katyregnery/

COMFORT SONGS by Kimberly Fish – Book Blog Tour Reviewapalooza: Review and Giveaway

COMFORT SONGS

a companion novel to Comfort Plans

by

KIMBERLY FISH

Genre: Contemporary Romance / Women’s Fiction
Publisher: Fish Tales, LLC
Date of Publication: September 19, 2019
Number of Pages: 348

Scroll down for the giveaway!

Award-winning author of Comfort Plans, Kimberly Fish, delivers a novel about family, forgiveness, and the seeds of second chances.

Eight years ago, Autumn Joy Worthington, still reeling from the bitter divorce of her Grammy-Award-winning parents, endured the betrayal of a man who’d promised her a wedding. Running from pain seemed the logical response. Reinventing herself in Comfort, Texas, as a lavender grower, she creates a wildly successful gardening haven that draws in tourists and establishes an identity far removed from her parents’ fame. Her mother’s retirement from stardom inspires AJ to offer her refuge and nurse the dream that they could move past old hurts and the tarnish of the music industry … to find friendship. A grandmother in the early stages of dementia and the return of AJ’s father complicate the recovery, but nothing sets the fragile reality spinning like the arrival of Nashville music executive, Luke English.

As Alzheimer’s slowly knocks away the filters of their family, AJ comes to appreciate the true meanings of love and forgiveness — and that the power of redemption can generate from the most unlikely sources. When AJ uncovers the grit to make hard choices, she also discovers that the flowers that bloom the brightest can have the most tangled roots.

CLICK TO PURCHASE

With its familiar setting of Texas Hill Country and its compelling storyline that deals with the burgeoning of romance amidst the complications of family drama, Comfort Songs grabbed my attention and didn’t let go until I reached the incredibly satisfying end. Four hours later, I find myself sighing happily, having been thoroughly entertained by Ms. Fish’s fantastic prose. Not a bad way to spend four hours of a cold, wet autumn evening.

One of the things I love about Comfort Songs is its highly-developed sense of place. I’m certain that even those who are unfamiliar with the area described in the book would feel as if they’ve been transported to its location. The sights, sounds, smells, and feel of Comfort, Texas came alive through Ms. Fish’s vivid descriptions. It’s no hardship to imagine myself in the midst of AJ’s warm and fragrant lavender fields right now.

Speaking of AJ, I admire her character in the book. Responsible, nurturing, and mature, she bears the heavy burdens of managing her business, taking care of her slowly-deteriorating grandmother, and putting up with her warring parents remarkably well. All of these at the same time she is starting to trust again and allowing Luke into her heart.

There are so many scenes in this novel that moved me to laughter and tears, particularly when AJ finally received the love and attention she deserves from her parents. There are also many quotes that resonated with me, like this one:

“One had to remove the rocks and the weeds before they could till the soil …”

I appreciate those snippets from “Lessons from Lavender Hill” very much. I only wish they’re more consistent in that every chapter should have an epigraph of them. Other than that, I can’t find much to complain about in this book.

Kimberly Fish is a professional writer with almost thirty years of media experience. She’s been telling stories far longer. She published her first novel, a WWII historical fiction novel, because of a true story in her adopted hometown that was too good to ignore. She quickly followed that success with a sequel. Since then, she’s continued writing fiction and added a contemporary second-chance romance series set in Comfort, Texas, to her list of fun, fast-paced novels. Kimberly lives with her family in East Texas.

WEBSITE * INSTAGRAM * FACEBOOK
YOUTUBE * PINTEREST * TWITTER
GOODREADS * AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE

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SIGNED COPY OF COMFORT SONGS
+ HUMMINGBIRD FARMS HAND CREAM & HAND SOAP
OCTOBER 22-NOVEMBER 1, 2019

(U.S. Only)

Click on the photo to enter

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VISIT THE OTHER GREAT BLOGS ON THE TOUR:

10/22/19 	Review 		Momma on the Rocks 
10/22/19 	BONUS Promo 	All the Ups and Downs 
10/23/19 	Review 		Reading by Moonlight 
10/23/19 	Review 		KayBee's Book Shelf 
10/24/19 	Review 		Sybrina's Book Blog 
10/25/19 	Review 		Sydney Young, Stories 
10/25/19 	Review 		Bibliotica 
10/26/19 	Review 		That's What She's Reading 
10/27/19 	Review 		Book Fidelity 
10/28/19 	Review 		The Book Review 
10/28/19 	Review 		Missus Gonzo 
10/29/19 	Review 		Forgotten Winds 
10/30/19 	Review 		The Clueless Gent 
10/30/19 	Review 		StoreyBook Reviews 
10/31/19 	Review 		Hall Ways Blog 
10/31/19 	Review 		Carpe Diem Chronicles

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BEYOND THE HORIZON by Ella Carey – Book Blog Tour: Review and Giveaway

BEYOND THE HORIZON

by

ELLA CAREY

Historical Fiction / Friendship
Publisher: Lake Union Publishing
Date of Publication: October 15, 2019
Number of Pages: 326

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From the author of The House by the Lake comes a powerful novel of friendship during World War II, fighting for the truth, and making peace with the past.

At the height of World War II, Eva Scott’s dream comes true. Accepted into the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP), she leaves balmy California and the man she loves for grueling training in Texas, ultimately landing at formidable Camp Davis in North Carolina.

Vastly outnumbered by men and amid contempt, discrimination, and sabotage, Eva and her closest friends, the unconventional Nina and straight-laced Helena, remain loyal to their mission and to each other. They stay focused on the horizon, determined to prove themselves capable women pilots. Until a fatal mission sends Eva’s dream crashing to earth . . .

Now, decades later, is it possible to discover the truth about the night that changed her life? Is there any hope she’ll recover all that she’s lost? When Eva finds herself embroiled in the fight to get military recognition for the WASP, she’s forced to confront the past and to make a decision that could forever change her future.

Thrilling and inspiring, Beyond the Horizon is a portrait of love, friendship, and valor in a time of war—and a tribute to the brave women who risked their lives for their country.

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PRAISE FOR BEYOND THE HORIZON:

“With snappy dialogue, impressive historical details, a sense of adventure and courage on every page, and even a love story, Ella Carey has hit all the markers that make fine historical fiction.”
—Ann Howard Creel, bestselling author of The Whiskey Sea

“Fans of inspirational World War II fiction will cheer on Eva and her fellow pilots as they chase their dreams, endure heartbreak, and discover their true strength. Carey’s evocative descriptions bring home the exhilaration of flight—and the everyday indignities endured by young women who challenged the expectations of their time. The story’s final twist makes for a surprising and moving conclusion.” —Elizabeth Blackwell, author of On a Cold Dark Sea and In the Shadow of Lakecrest

“A moving, beautifully written novel about the amazing WASP during WWII. True to life and packed full of emotion. I thoroughly enjoyed feeling like I was one of these extraordinary women pilots as I read the story.” —Soraya M. Lane, Amazon Charts bestselling author of The Girls of Pearl Harbor

Beyond the Horizon is so impressively well-researched that, at times, it read more like a biography than a historical fiction novel. Ms. Carey impressed with her attention to detail and breadth of knowledge about women pilots and the highly technical subject of aviation. The real-life dramas of gender discrimination in the military, of friendship and sisterhood, of complicated family dynamics, and of love and loss, greatly enhanced that initial impression.

It surprised and delighted me how strongly I personally related to Eva Scott in the early pages of the book. Reading those flying scenes evoked memories of my own unforgettable experience of taking over the controls of a Philippine Air Force plane when I was fifteen and flying it for a quarter of an hour over a dormant volcano. Such is Ms. Carey’s storytelling talent that her work triggers an emotional response from the reader. It certainly did with me.

While I enjoyed the majority of this novel, I still found a couple of things that could have been improved. The pacing is a tad inconsistent. It was slow during the training parts and rushed towards the end. Jack’s character frustrated me in that he came out like a Hollywood villain. Finally, as a romance author, I wish there was more development before Eva’s happily-ever-after.

This is the first book by Ella Carey that I’ve read and I can say this is a wonderful introduction. I was already predisposed to like this novel due to my connection with the US Air Force and my burgeoning interest in World War II historical fiction, but her writing skill convinced me to check out more of her backlist and watch out for her future work.

Ella Carey is the international bestselling author of The Things We Don’t Say, Secret Shores, From a Paris Balcony, The House by the Lake, and Paris Time Capsule. Her books have been published in over fourteen countries, in twelve languages. Her sixth novel is Beyond The Horizon, set around the Women Air Force Service Pilots during World War Two.

Ella is incredibly excited to share this book with her readers, as her mother was a W.A.A.A.F during World War Two, and her father was in the R.A.F, flying airplanes over occupied France. Ella traveled to Sweetwater, Texas, to research the novel, and is grateful to Ann Hobing, the then-Executive Director of the WASP museum for sharing her wonderful knowledge of the WASP. Ella also worked with two pilots to craft the flight scenes.

Ella loves to connect with her readers For more information on the background to her novels and updates about her next release and to contact her about appearances at your local book club, please visit her website.

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VISIT THE OTHER GREAT BLOGS ON THE TOUR:

10/17/19 	Promo 			Texas Book Lover 
10/17/19 	Promo 			Hall Ways Blog 
10/18/19 	Review 			Sydney Young, Stories 
10/19/19 	Excerpt 		Forgotten Winds 
10/20/19 	Review 			Bibliotica 
10/21/19 	Character Interview 	Story Schmoozing Book Reviews 
10/21/19 	Excerpt 		Chapter Break Book Blog 
10/22/19 	Guest Post 		Nerd Narration 
10/23/19 	Review 			StoreyBook Reviews 
10/23/19 	Review 			Book Fidelity 
10/24/19 	Excerpt 		That's What She's Reading 
10/24/19 	Scrapbook 		All the Ups and Downs 
10/25/19 	Review 			Reading by Moonlight 
10/26/19 	Review 			Carpe Diem Chronicles 
10/26/19 	Review 			The Clueless Gent

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CHRISTMAS IN WINTER VALLEY by Jodi Thomas – Book Blog Tour: Review and Giveaway

CHRISTMAS IN WINTER VALLEY
Ransom Canyon, #8

by

Jodi Thomas

Genre: Contemporary / Western / Holiday Romance
Publisher: HQN
Publication Date: September 24, 2019
Number of Pages: 288 pages

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Ransom Canyon welcomes you back for a Christmas that has everything you’re looking for: romance, family, and a whole lot of Texas.

Cooper Holloway would take nature over people any day—especially visiting relatives. That’s why he’s headed for a rustic cabin in remote Winter Valley, where he’ll care for a herd of wild mustangs. But Cooper’s plans are quickly thwarted by the arrival of two unexpected guests: one, a stranger in desperate need of his help, and the other, a very attractive young veterinarian.

Elliott is busy trying to keep Maverick Ranch running smoothly with Cooper gone, which is no easy task with family visiting. And when a long-lost love suddenly reappears in his life, Elliott knows he’ll have more than just books to balance this season.

With a big, chaotic family Christmas around the corner and love blooming in surprising ways, the Holloway men will have to make big choices about the future—just in time for the holidays.

PRAISE FOR CHRISTMAS IN WINTER VALLEY:
“This book has everything you would want. Laughter, drama. And tears both happy and sad. I highly recommend this book.” — Patty Champion (5 Stars, Goodreads Review)

“I could not put this book down once I started it and longed for more once I was done.” — Melanie (5 Stars, Goodreads Review)

“I got lost in the world that she [Jodi Thomas] has created and enjoyed seeing her characters with their overlapping and interconnected stories find a happiness that none of them expected to ever find.” — B. (5 Stars, Goodreads Review)

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Fitting the season of love perfectly, Christmas in Winter Valley tells the story of four romantic pairings finding their happily-ever-afters in snowy Ransom Canyon. There’s the seasoned romance between Tye and Dani, the opposites attract scenario of Creed and Dallas’s story, the second-chance love between Elliot and Jess, and the instalove between Coop and Hayley. If those are not enough, there’s also the happy ending for the orphaned Tatum. Truly, there’s something for everyone to appreciate.

Happening two weeks before Christmas day, the events in this book take place at a fast clip. A good number of characters are named, which would have confused many readers if not for the deft hands of Ms. Thomas. Each person mentioned has a distinct personality, even those who are only on the other side of the phone.

As is Ms. Thomas’s signature, Christmas in Winter Valley has plenty of humor, a touch of drama, and a whole lot of Texas. Long-time fans will love this series-ender, while new readers will want to read as many of the earlier books as possible. This book can be read as a stand-alone but for those just coming into this series late, I highly recommend reading Griffin and Sunlan’s story at the very least.

I enjoyed reading this book although I wish it’s longer so that the relationships are developed better. While I appreciate the inclusion of the older pair and the varying body types, I wish there’s more diversity in the characters. I would have loved to see some persons of color. For a contemporary novel not to have them present is unrealistic in this day and age.

With millions of books in print, Jodi Thomas is both a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of over fifty novels and countless short story collections. Her stories travel through the past and present days of Texas and draw readers from around the world.

In July 2006, Jodi was the 11th writer to be inducted into the Romance Writers of America Hall of Fame. With five RITA’s to her credit, along with National Readers’ Choice Awards and Booksellers’ Best Awards, Thomas has proven her skill as a master storyteller.

Thomas was honored in 2002 as a Distinguished Alumni by Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas and served sixteen years as the Writer in Residence at West Texas A&M University in Canyon, Texas.

When not working on a novel, or inspiring students to pursue writing careers, Thomas enjoys traveling with her family, renovating a historic home, and “checking up” on two grown sons and four grandchildren.

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October 3-13, 2019
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VISIT THE OTHER GREAT BLOGS ON THE TOUR:

10/3/19 	Notable Quotable 	The Page Unbound 
10/3/19 	BONUS Post 		Hall Ways Blog 
10/4/19 	Review 			That's What She's Reading 
10/5/19 	Author Video 		All the Ups and Downs 
10/6/19 	Review 			Librariel Book Adventures 
10/7/19 	Excerpt 		StoreyBook Reviews 
10/8/19 	Review 			Rainy Days with Amanda 
10/9/19 	Scrapbook Page 		The Clueless Gent 
10/10/19 	Review 			The Book Review 
10/11/19 	Review 			Carpe Diem Chronicles 
10/12/19 	Notable Quotable 	Missus Gonzo

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FAKER by Sarah Smith – Happy Release Day!

FAKER

by

Sarah Smith

SYNOPSIS

Emmie Echavarre is a professional faker. She has to be to survive as one of the few female employees at Nuts & Bolts, a power tool company staffed predominantly by gruff, burly men. From nine to five, Monday through Friday, she’s tough as nails–the complete opposite of her easy-going real self.

One thing she doesn’t have to fake? Her disdain for coworker Tate Rasmussen. Tate has been hostile to her since the day they met. Emmie’s friendly greetings and repeated attempts to get to know him failed to garner anything more than scowls and terse one-word answers. Too bad she can’t stop staring at his Thor-like biceps …

When Emmie and Tate are forced to work together on a charity construction project, things get … heated. Emmie’s beginning to see that beneath Tate’s chiseled exterior lies a soft heart, but it will take more than a few kind words to erase the past and convince her that what they have is real.

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ABOUT SARAH

Sarah Smith is a copywriter-turned-author who wants to make the world a lovelier place, one kissing story at a time. Her love of romance began when she was eight and she discovered her auntie’s stash of romance novels. She’s been hooked ever since. When she’s not writing, you can find her hiking, eating chocolate, and perfecting her lumpia recipe. She lives in Bend, Oregon, with her husband and adorable cat Salem. Faker is her debut novel.

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TUCKER

by

Emily March

SYNOPSIS

ABOUT EMILY

REVIEW

GIVEAWAY

AN EVERYDAY HERO

Book 2, Heart of a Hero Series

Laura Trentham

SYNOPSIS

REVIEW

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

GIVEAWAY

THE MAIL ORDER BRIDE’S SECRET Outlaw’s Mail Order Bride, Book Three

by

LINDA BRODAY

Genre: Historical Western Romance Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca Publication Date: January 28, 2020 Number of Pages: 352 pages

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PRAISE FOR THE MAIL ORDER BRIDE’S SECRET:

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Three Winners 1st: $25 Amazon Gift Card; 2nd: Autographed Set of All 3 Books in the Series; 3rd: Autographed Copy of The Mail Order Bride’s Secret.

January 28-February 7, 2020 (US Addresses only)

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SOMETHING REAL

by

Allegra Johnson

SYNOPSIS

ABOUT ALLEGRA

REVIEW

NOME-O SEEKS JULIET

An Odds-Are-Good Romance #2

by

Katy Regnery

SYNOPSIS

REVIEW

ABOUT KATY

COMFORT SONGS

a companion novel to Comfort Plans

by

KIMBERLY FISH

Genre: Contemporary Romance / Women’s Fiction Publisher: Fish Tales, LLC Date of Publication: September 19, 2019 Number of Pages: 348

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SIGNED COPY OF COMFORT SONGS + HUMMINGBIRD FARMS HAND CREAM & HAND SOAP OCTOBER 22-NOVEMBER 1, 2019

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BEYOND THE HORIZON

by

ELLA CAREY

Historical Fiction / Friendship Publisher: Lake Union Publishing Date of Publication: October 15, 2019 Number of Pages: 326

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PRAISE FOR BEYOND THE HORIZON:

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CHRISTMAS IN WINTER VALLEY Ransom Canyon, #8

by

Jodi Thomas

Genre: Contemporary / Western / Holiday Romance Publisher: HQN Publication Date: September 24, 2019 Number of Pages: 288 pages

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FAKER

by

Sarah Smith

SYNOPSIS

ABOUT SARAH

THE MAIL ORDER
BRIDE’S SECRET
Outlaw’s Mail Order Bride,
Book Three

Genre: Historical Western Romance
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca
Publication Date: January 28, 2020
Number of Pages: 352 pages

PURCHASE THE BOOK
│ iBooks │ Amazon │ Indiebound│
│Barnes and Noble│Kobo│

Three Winners
1st: $25 Amazon Gift Card; 2nd: Autographed Set of All 3 Books in the Series; 3rd: Autographed Copy of The Mail Order Bride’s Secret.

January 28-February 7, 2020
(US Addresses only)

Genre: Contemporary Romance / Women’s Fiction
Publisher: Fish Tales, LLC
Date of Publication: September 19, 2019
Number of Pages: 348

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SIGNED COPY OF COMFORT SONGS
+ HUMMINGBIRD FARMS HAND CREAM & HAND SOAP
OCTOBER 22-NOVEMBER 1, 2019

Historical Fiction / Friendship
Publisher: Lake Union Publishing
Date of Publication: October 15, 2019
Number of Pages: 326

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CHRISTMAS IN WINTER VALLEY
Ransom Canyon, #8

Genre: Contemporary / Western / Holiday Romance
Publisher: HQN
Publication Date: September 24, 2019
Number of Pages: 288 pages

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