Author: Empress DJ

Empress DJ AKA Honolulubelle is a Rabid Reader, Unabashed Reviewer, and All-Purpose Goddess
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Book Review: Your Secret’s Safe With Me by Rosie Travers

 Your Secret’s Safe With Me

by Rosie Travers

 

Amazon US / UK / AU / CA 

 

Career girl Becca Gates’ organized life is thrown into chaos when her mother, romantic novelist Pearl, announces her surprise engagement to Jack, a man she has only just met. 

Worse news follows when Pearl tells Becca she intends to leave London, quit writing, and retire to her new fiancé’s idyllic waterside home on the south coast. Becca is determined to prevent Pearl from making a disastrous mistake, but when she at arrives at Rivermede, more shocks await when she stumbles upon a familiar yet unwelcome face from her past.

As Pearl embraces her new life amongst the local sailing fraternity, Becca receives a grim warning that all is not as calm as it seems at picturesque Rivermede, and if she wants to keep her family safe, she should keep them away. 

But why should Becca trust the man who has betrayed her before, the man who broke her heart, the man who thinks he knows all her secrets?

 

My Rating:

 

 

My Review:

 

This was my first sampling of the crafty storytelling of Rosie Travers; she is quite the raconteur. I would classify the genre as an excellent example of Women’s Fiction as it consisted of several original and intriguing storylines that were slowly and carefully developed and dabbled in various genres including annoying family member drama, second chance romance, ironic humor, and elements of suspense. Ms. Travers cleverly tossed in a few sly twists at the end that I certainly didn’t see coming.

 

There wasn’t a tautly written edge of your seat or lip-biting tension, although there appeared to be a curiously well-maintained prickle of unease and uncertainty for the future that held fast throughout, as the main character of Becca was a worrier, and for good reason. Ms. Travers excelled in filling the history and skins of her characters with realistic foibles and peculiar traits; they were often selfish, maddening, and exasperating – as most families are – yet they also worried about, covered for, and cared deeply about each other. I admired the shrewd pacing and thoughtful consideration in bringing all the various elements and subplots together for a highly satisfactory conclusion before ambushing us with the largest secret of all. Rosie Travers is one slick customer.

About the Author

Rosie Travers grew up in Southampton on the south coast of England and loved escaping into a good book at a very early age. After many years juggling motherhood and a variety of jobs in local government she moved to Southern California in 2009. With time on her hands, she started a blog about the perils of ex-pat life which rekindled a teenage desire to become a writer. Now permanently settled back in the UK, Rosie takes inspiration from the towns and landscape of her native south coast and enjoys writing heart-warming stories sprinkled with mystery, tragedy, comedy, and romance. Rosie’s debut novel, The Theatre of Dreams, was published by Crooked Cats Books in August 2018. She is a member of the Romantic Novelists Association.

Social Media Links –

Website: https://www.rosietravers.com

Twitter @RosieTravers

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosietraversauthor

Instagram: @rosietraversauthor

RNA Profile:  https://romanticnovelistsassociation.org/rna_author/rosie-travers/

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Book Review: A Wedding on Lily Pond Lane (Lily Pond Lane #7) by Emily Harvale

A Wedding on Lily Pond Lane

(Lily Pond Lane #7)

by Emily Harvale

 

Amazon US / UK / AU / CA 

The Angel Bell is ringing for Mia and Jet’s Big Day – but will the Wedding of the Year go without a hitch?


Every bride wants the perfect wedding and Mia Ward is no exception. But she is the only bride in Little Pondale and everyone in the village has ideas for her Big Day. Drowning in suggestions, Mia needs some help.

When she bumps into childhood friend, Breanna Wright on a shopping trip to London, Mia’s convinced it’s Fate. Breanna’s only ambition was to be a wedding planner with her own business, The Wright Wedding … so Mia doesn’t hesitate.

Breanna’s now got three months to plan a wedding where the sky’s the limit, budget-wise. She should be over the moon. Especially as she’ll get a chance to see old friends again, including her first love. There’s just one tiny hitch … Breanna doesn’t have a wedding-planning business.

She should tell Mia there has been a slight mistake, but as usual Breanna’s life isn’t running smoothly and she could really use a break. And when you’ve dreamt about planning weddings all your life, how difficult can it be?

Will this be the chance Breanna’s longed for? Or will Mia’s Dream Wedding be Breanna’s biggest disaster yet?

My Rating:

 

Favorite Quotes:

 

Ella tutted. ‘He’ll never change. Almost five months living with me and I still haven’t knocked the ‘posh’ out of him.’ She raised her eyes skyward and laughed.

 

This village is a hotbed of lust, you know. If you’re looking for a man, this is the place to be.

 

Don’t let Garrick see that expression on your face… He won’t let you see Flora if you’ve got a face like a sad sausage.

 

My Review:

 

Little Pondale was abuzz with a new resident to gossip about, new romances to follow, and an exciting wedding to plan. I adored the new addition of the accident-prone Bree; she was highly sympathetic and endearingly awkward and sincere. Bree was a welcome item of fascination to the residents of the tiny village that consisted of a few lanes of cottages, a church, pub, bakery, vet’s office, and a long history of myths and superstitions as well as eccentric inhabitants such as the ancient Ben who was seldom seen but wondered around “dressed like a Jedi Knight.” I cannot seem to get enough of Ms. Harvale’s delightfully disarming and highly amusing storytelling. But I have to wonder, what does a “sad sausage” look like?

About the Author

Having lived and worked in London for several years, Emily returned to her home town of Hastings where she now spends her days writing… and chatting on social media. Emily is a Member of the SoA, a PAN member of the RWA and a Pro Member of ALLi. She’s an Amazon bestseller and a Kindle All-Star. Emily loves writing and her stories are sure to bring a smile to your face and a warmth to your heart.

Emily says, “I write about friendship, family and falling in love. I believe in happing endings.” When she isn’t writing, she can be found enjoying the stunning East Sussex coast and countryside, or in a wine bar with friends, discussing life, love and the latest TV shows. Chocolate cake is often eaten. She dislikes housework almost as much as she dislikes anchovies – and will do anything to avoid both.

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Book Review: NAKED LOVE by Jewel E Ann

NAKED LOVE

by Jewel E Ann

What happens when a high-heeled diva goes camping with her sister’s dog?

Avery Montgomery, fashionista and preacher’s daughter, needs a ride from Milwaukee to Los Angeles.

“Make my death quick, and please don’t tie me up. I’m claustrophobic.”  

Jake Matthews, diva-hater, agrees to let her tag along on his annual but primitive trek to the West Coast.

“Okay, Princess, I’ll take you to L.A., but your crown won’t make it there in one piece.”

She’s desperate and out of options.

He’s ruthless and out of patience.  

Don’t miss this sexy, hilarious, and heart-warming journey of self-discovery and raw … naked love.

 

My Rating:

Favorite Quotes:

 

I admit it—if only to myself—I, Avery Montgomery, am a wuss. I’ve canceled clients because of an irritated hangnail. Menstrual cramps leave me bedridden for twenty-four hours. And I’m one of those patients who require nitrous oxide just to get my teeth cleaned. It’s genetic. There has to be a low pain tolerance gene.

 

Yeah, all men are lying, cheating, monkey-spanking dick cheese.

 

My life is a game of limbo—how low can I go?

 

The list of reasons why he deserves to come close to dying is so long, I can’t even see the end of it with binoculars, but …when I’m not hating Jake, I kinda like him.

 

Jake Matthews just knocked on the window to my soul and whispered, “I see you.” Not the million imperfections I see in the mirror.

 

Sometimes no words are the best words.

 

I’m going to Hell. But that’s not a newsflash.

 

 My Review:

 

Jewel E. Ann is a wily trickster.   I was gleefully tripping through what I thought was a delightfully steamy, cleverly written, and wryly insightful romantic comedy that had me smirking and snorting with mirth, and then boom, she broke my heart. And just like that, I was stunned. Then I was thunderstruck with an epiphany. I realized this cagey author had deftly layered poignant details into her narrative with ninja-like stealth, all the while her artfully penned storylines had been ironically amusing while my heart was being squeezed with all the feels. All of them.

 

Jewel E. Ann has cunningly crafted a tale around the main character of Avery, who was comically entertaining but not at all admirable or initially likable.   Had I been trapped on a cross-country road trip with the shallow, vain, self-possessed, and quirkily high-maintenance diva Avery, I would most likely have smacked her a few times before reaching our destination, all right, probably more than a few… Yet this talented wordsmith had me feeling torn up over her distress – the only explanation I can come up with is word voodoo…   And lucky for us, Jewel E. Ann obviously has a strong dose of it. I have added her entire backlist to my TBR as I covet all her clever words.

 

About Jewel:

Jewel is a free-spirited romance junkie with a quirky sense of humor.

With 10 years of flossing lectures under her belt, she took early retirement from her dental hygiene career to stay home with her three awesome boys and manage the family business.

After her best friend of nearly 30 years suggested a few books from the Contemporary Romance genre, Jewel was hooked. Devouring two and three books a week but still craving more, she decided to practice sustainable reading, AKA writing.

When she’s not donning her cape and saving the planet one tree at a time, she enjoys yoga with friends, good food with family, rock climbing with her kids, watching How I Met Your Mother reruns, and of course…heart-wrenching, tear-jerking, panty-scorching novels.

JewelEAnn

Connect with Jewel:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorjeweleann/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/JewelE_Ann

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

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/jewel-e-ann

Stay up to date with Jewel by joining her mailing list:

http://www.jeweleann.com/free-booksubscribe/

http://www.jeweleann.com

 

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Book Review, Giveaway: Pink Bits by JB Heller

PINK BITS

by JB Heller


Did you know the medical term for a butt crack is intergluteal cleft?

My name is Reagan, and spouting random facts like this one at inopportune moments is my affliction. I’m chronically awkward, socially inept and completely lack a filter. Believe it or not, men do not find these attractive traits. 

When my sexy-as-sin neighbor barges into my apartment at the arse crack of dawn, everything changes. For some strange reason, my brand of crazy doesn’t send him running for the hills. Instead, he settles in for a nap on my couch…

Oh, and did I mention he was completely naked?

AMAZON USA https://amzn.to/2FBImxt
AMAZON AU https://amzn.to/2Yrt5rA
AMAZON UK https://amzn.to/2Os37iY
AMAZON CA https://amzn.to/2WrIHtm

#NewRelease #JBTheIndie #IndieAuthor #PinkBits #RomCom #KindleUnlimited

My Rating:

 

Favorite Quotes:

 

Unless your biological mother has changed her mind about removing my testicles with her bare hands. Then she’d be welcome to join us as well.

 

I’m SOOO sorry but I have to cancel tonight. I’m surfin’ the crimson wave and Mother Nature is being an extra cruel bitch this month. I feel like a slasher film is being enacted inside my uterus.

 

Bleed out? That’s a little dramatic. You’re going to need stitches, not a funeral director.

 

My Review:

 

Reading this delightful book was pure fun, smirks and giggle-snorts abounded, and there may even have been a bit of a situation of spewed Diet Dew during an unfortunately inconvenient second when my throat couldn’t contain a giggle and swallow at the same time.   I didn’t even mind as I was so besotted with this cleverly written tale and deliciously quirky couple. Reagan was totally filterless and a drama llama who claimed to suffer from “a debilitating case of awkwardness.” She was brimming with a mountain of peculiar quirks and a tendency to blurt out oddly comedic and hysterically inappropriate trivia and random facts. I coveted their stamina as much as her amusingly witty collection of coffee mugs. Colorful characters and nimble levity flowed through each page and my only regret was that the story had to end. I would greatly enjoy knowing these enticing characters and spending time with them every day; they were naughty good fun.

 

Don’t forget to enter JB’s awesome giveaway! 2 winners will be randomly chosen to receive a limited edition foil print paperback, an awkward tank and a $25 Amazon gift card!

Enter Here!

 

About the Author  

I’m a regular Aussie chic, with a spunky husband and a few kids.

I’ve worked in many different fields, trying to find my niche. But nothing felt right until now. I have found my fit. I am passionate about reading as well as writing and I have gained some incredibly inspiring friends from this journey.

I write contemporary comedic romance with a bit of spice to keep things interesting.

I like to write fun, interesting characters that grab your attention from the very beginning.

I hope you enjoy reading my books as much as I enjoy writing them. X

Social Links

Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/authorjbheller/
Reader Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/hellersbookwhorders
Website: http://www.jbtheindie.com/
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/J-B-Heller/e/B00OTKSNNS/
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/j-b-heller
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/800887.J_B_Heller
Instagram: http://instagram.com/jbtheindie
Books+Main Bites: https://bookandmainbites.com/JBHeller

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Book Review: Worth the Wait by J.B. Heller

 

Worth The Wait 

(Alpha One #2)

by JB Heller

Amazon US / UK / CA / AU 

Some secrets shouldn’t be kept…

Being with Ellie is easy. She’s fiery, brilliant, gorgeous and knows her way around an engine. I knew the moment I saw her, fire flashing in her green eyes, that she was it for me. We fit together perfectly, her outspoken nature complementing my reserved one.
I’ve never been so at peace, so absolutely content. There’s only one thing that could ruin it all, my past. There are things I haven’t told her, things she needs to know. But I’m not the only one who’s been keeping secrets, and it’s all about to surface in the worst possible way.
I can’t lose her, not when I only just got her. Protecting people is what I do, it’s more than my job, it’s my sole purpose in life. It’s why I joined the military then became a bodyguard.
The man threatening what’s mine obviously doesn’t value his own life, because nobody messes with my family and walks away unscathed.
Worth the Wait is a sizzling standalone novel in the Alpha One Protection romantic suspense series. If you like sexy alpha men, free-spirited women, and shocking plot twists, then you’ll love JB Heller’s danger-riddled romance.

 

**Book two in a series of interconnecting standalones.

My Rating:

 

 

Favorite Quotes:

 

I was smiling because you make me happy, you crazy little gremlin. That’s all… Can’t a man enjoy your company without it being creepy?

 

“No swearing near her,” I snap. “Her brain is like a sponge. She’ll remember that shit.” Paco glares at me, “You just said shit.” A frown creases my brows. “I’m workin’ on it.”

 

 My Review:

 

I am conflicted in how to rate this one; it was a mixed bag for me. I enjoyed the first half of the book which was equal parts humor, sizzle, and angst while delving into the blossoming relationship of Zak and Ellie, a feisty pint-sized female mechanic who was an apparent turd magnet with an unpleasant relationship history and alarmingly poor taste in men. It was no wonder Ellie was questioning her good fortune and a bit distrustful in hitting the jackpot with Zak, her current love interest, who had been outstandingly patient with her smart mouth, quick temper, and outlandish antics and was exceptionally gentle with her despite his large size. Zak was extremely thoughtful had a complicated history and a large, tender, and generous heart.   Midway through the storyline changed and became increasing more convoluted and difficult to follow until it skidded off the rails into OTT land and I was approaching DNF territory. I stuck with it out of curiosity and was rewarded with a return to the lighter tones of levity and steam before ending in a satisfying HEA.

Author JB Heller

 

Website

Goodreads

JB Heller is an average Aussie housewife in her early 30’s with a wicked sexy imagination. JB and her family live in Central Queensland, Australia on a mini farm of sorts, surrounded by animals.

She writes both romantic suspense and contemporary romance with a healthy splash of wit. You’ll love her dashingly handsome alpha hero’s and their feisty counterparts. Then swoon over her beautifully damaged, and flawed characters.

Most day’s JB can be found glued to her laptop, taking advantage of school hours or trolling Pinterest for her next potential muse. And when she needs a break from the voices in her head she indulges in one of her favorite past times, reading or binging on Netflix.

Want to know more about JB? Check her out, you’ll be guaranteed a good laugh if nothing else.

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Book Review: Hustle (Men of Inked: Southside #4) by Chelle Bliss

Hustle (Men of Inked: Southside #4) 
by USA Today bestselling author Chelle Bliss
AVAILABLE NOW!
❥ Amazon: mybook.to/hustle
❥ Apple: smarturl.it/9mo8nq
❥ Nook: bit.ly/2SwCASk
❥ Kobo: bit.ly/2IAVSWR
❥ Print $12.99: amzn.to/2Axk31W

**Remember, buy the print on amazon.com and get the eBook FREE.
Genre: Contemporary Romance
#ChelleBliss #Hustle #BlogTour #MenOfInked

Hustle is the fourth book in the interconnected standalone Men of Inked: Southside series

 
Synopsis
 
Vinnie Gallo’s the hottest rookie in professional football.
He’s a smooth-talker, good with his hands, and knows how to score.
 
Bianca Hernandez thinks she’s immune to Vinnie’s charms.
She’s not impressed by the glitz, glamour, or fame, but after a six-month self-imposed break from men and sex, she feels her resistance slipping.
 

Nothing will stop Vinnie from trying to get the girl–not a crazy stalker, Bianca’s two older brothers, or the fear he’s falling in love.

 

My Rating:

 Favorite Quotes:

 

I don’t know what century my mother is living in, but it’s not this one… “He has nice teeth too,” she adds, like that little detail should be enough to seal the deal.

 

You’re talking to a bunch of jocks and housewives, sweetheart. We barely write, let alone read.

 

She slides her hands down his thick neck to his shoulders. “Solid frame. Good genes. You’ll make wonderful grandchildren.” Vinnie stiffens. “I don’t think we’re ready to have children yet,” he tells her, letting her feel him up like she’s buying livestock. “I didn’t plan to have Luis when I did either. Accidents happen, handsome.”

 

I motion for her to give the book back. “But I want to finish it and yours too.” “Is Vinnie Gallo a secret romance lover?” “Shut your mouth. Don’t you dare tell anyone.”

  

My Review:

 

If in need of a quick, light, spicy, and irreverently amusing read, Hustle will put a smirk on your face and a kick in your pulse rate – this couple had sizzle and snap. Written in my favorite dual POV, the storylines were easy to follow and humorously entertaining while laced with sensual steam naughty levity, and bawdy talking characters. I enjoy the rowdy Gallos and am highly amused by the ingeniously uncommon element of an Italian mother who cannot cook.

 

 

Men of Inked Series Also Available Now!
❤️Maneuver→ menofinked.com/maneuver
❤️Flow→ menofinked.com/flow
❤️Hook→ menofinked.com/hook

**Remember, buy the print on amazon.com and get the eBook FREE.

 

Meet the Author


 USA Today bestselling author Chelle Bliss currently lives in a small town near the Gulf of Mexico. She’s a full-time writer, time-waster extraordinaire, social media addict, and coffee fiend. She’s written over ten books and has two series available. She loves spending her free time with her boyfriend, 2 cats, and her hamster.
Before becoming a writer, Chelle taught high school history for over ten years. She holds a master’s degree in Instructional Technology and a bachelor’s in History. Although history is her first love, writing has become her dream job and she can’t imagine doing anything else.
https://www.instagram.com/authorchellebliss/JOIN MY READER GROUP

 

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Book Review: The Roommate Agreement by Emma Hart

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Let your homeless best friend stay with you, he said. Being roommates will be fun, he said. It’s only temporary, he said.

He never said I’d fall for him.

The Roommate Agreement, all-new hilarious and romantic comedy from New York Times bestselling author Emma Hart is available now!

ROOMMATEAGREEMENT-coverdraft1

You know what isn’t ‘temporary?’ The endless stream of dirty socks in my bathroom and empty food packets under the sofa—and don’t even get me started on the hot guys who take over my living room every Sunday to watch sports.

I can’t take anymore.

So I propose a roommate agreement. One that will bring peace and order back to my life, complete with rules that might just stop my newfound crush on my best friend in its tracks.

After all, there’s only so many times you can see your best friend naked before you start to lose your mind.

Rules. They’re meant to be broken… Aren’t they?

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Download your copy today!

Amazon: https://amzn.to/2DGpmhA

AppleBooks: https://apple.co/2UoG1M3

Amazon Worldwide: http://mybook.to/TheRoommateAgreement

Nook: http://bit.ly/2DH0FBr

Kobo: http://bit.ly/2DIIPy5

Amazon Paperback: https://amzn.to/2U6lAam

Add to Goodreads: http://bit.ly/2H3qOyc

 

My Rating:

 

Favorite Quotes:

 

Jay’s grandmother’s obsession with Fireball wasn’t exactly a secret in town, and it’d caused her to remove her shirt in public more than once. I did not want to be the person who was responsible for that. The entire town was still getting over the last time. Especially since Betsy, uh, favored letting the girls go free, if you know what I mean.

 

The only people who have problems with inches are men and hair stylists.

 

“Leggings aren’t pants!” “Wash your filthy mouth out with soap!”

 

She wanted to know why you were such a heathen who didn’t visit anymore. I told her you were learning to do your own laundry, and she laughed so hard I think she broke a rib.

 

Introverts weren’t designed for this kind of human interaction. We were more of a mumble and hide in a blanket-fort kind of people.

 

My Review:

 

Inspired by her adulation of fellow oddball Sheldon Cooper from the Big Bang Theory, Shelby drew up a set of rules for her new roommate/lifelong best friend as his errant socks, Oreo thievery, and slovenly habits were working her last nerve.   Well, everyone knows a girl’s Oreos are sacrosanct! This was my second glee-filled exposure to the lovely Ms. Emma Hart, and the mystery of why I have just recently stumbled into her gifted wordplay feels like a cruel joke – where are my book friends, why didn’t someone tell me? I adore her mischievously clever wit and uniquely quirky characters. Written in my favorite dual POV, this highly amusing tale was packed with swift and wily banter that kept me smirking and giggle-snorting as I read. I adored this smartly crafted friends to lovers story from start to finish. Emma Hart = good fun!

Excerpt:

Shelby shut the door with a click and peered over at me. “What are you writing? If it’s permission to use the feather duster as a sex toy, the answer is no. Unless you buy your own, but if you haven’t figured out where the laundry room is yet, I doubt you’ll find where to buy one.”

She was as funny as a car crash, this one.

“Hilarious,” I drawled. “No, I’m making amendments as I go. I added a new rule.”

“You added a new rule?” She raised one dark eyebrow and walked over, hovering over me. “All right, what is it?”

“Decent clothes must be worn. Do you know how many times I wake up early on a morning to open the gym and find you basically in your underwear in the kitchen?”

“Basically in my underwear? Who are you seeing in the kitchen? I wear shorts and a tank top at the very least.”

“Yes, but the shorts barely cover your ass, and you’re sure as hell not wearing a bra.”

She paused, eyes glittering as she said, “And why are you looking at my ass and my boobs?”

That was an excellent question.

“Because there’s nowhere else to look!” I rushed out before my stupid cock could get any ideas. “Look, waking up in the morning can be challenging for a guy.”

She stared at me.

“I don’t need to get up for a coffee with… you know.” I motioned to my groin. “And see you half-clothed.”

She flicked her hair over her shoulder and walked to the kitchen, turning her back to me. “Why does it matter? I’m your best friend. I hardly think your little friend is remotely interested in whether or not I’m wearing a bra.”

Yeah, well, he is.

“Fine. If I have to wake up and see your perky nipples prancing around the kitchen, I’m going to stroll around in my underwear so you can get a good view of my morning glory.”

She spun, lifting up a finger. Her cheeks were flushed, and she had to swallow before she could speak. “My nipples do not prance. They are not horses.”

I grinned.

“Also, I have no desire to have anything to do with your morning erection, much less get a good view of it, thank you very much.”

“Have I told you that you’re cute when you blush?”

“Have I told you that you’d be a cute dead guy?”

I laughed, leaning back on the sofa. “C’mon, Shelbs. We need to respect each other’s privacy. You don’t want to see my cock hard over your breakfast, and I don’t want to see your nipples standing to attention when I make a coffee.”

She sighed. “Why did I ever let you move in again?”

“Because I was going to be homeless and you’re the best friend ever?”

“Mm.”

About Emma Hart

Emma Hart is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of over thirty novels and has been translated into several different languages.

 

She is a mother, wife, lover of wine, Pink Goddess, and valiant rescuer of wild baby hedgehogs.

 

Emma prides herself on her realistic, snarky smut, with comebacks that would make a PMS-ing teenage girl proud.

 

Yes, really. She’s that sarcastic.

EmmaHart.jpg

Connect with Emma

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EmmaHartBooks/

BookBub: http://bit.ly/2Dr0atq

Amazon US: http://amzn.to/2Dq42ez

Amazon UK: http://amzn.to/2EBbZNe

Goodreads: http://bit.ly/2D91d3T

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

Stay up to date with Emma by joining her mailing list: https://www.emmahart.org/newsletter

Website: https://www.emmahart.org/home

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Book Review, Giveaway: Mr. One-Night Stand by Rachael Stewart

 Mr. One-Night Stand

by Rachael Stewart 

 

Amazon US / UK / AU / CA / B&N

 

One night only. 
Just think of the possibilities…

The second she sees Mr. Oh-So-Delicious, Jennifer Hayes knows she needs one night of crazy. No names, no strings, no rules. Except that Jennifer’s naughty one-nighter is actually Marcus Wright—her new business partner! Now they’re mixing business with all kinds of pleasure. But when it comes to falling in love her sexy Mr. Wright is either Mr. Wrong or the best mistake of her life…

 

My Rating:

Favorite Quote:

 

Crack? It wasn’t a bad way to put it. He certainly felt as if someone had ripped him apart and put him back together all wrong.

 

My Review:

 

Sizzle and snap, this lascivious story had my Kindle throwing off sparks. It was lust at first sight and this couple was a five-alarm fire hazard. I could skip any plans of cardio for the day as this tale had me gasping for breath, elevated my heart rate, and doubled my laundry.   It could best be coined as an out of office unromance as neither party was willing to have anything to do with the other once they realized they would be working together. Yet neither could seem to concentrate. The premise wasn’t unique but the storylines were entertaining with frequent lashings of salacious inner musings. It was a quick, easy to follow and umm, highly sensual read. Certainly not one I would recommend for my elderly mother’s church ladies book club. Keep cool libations handy and ceiling fans set on high.

About the Author

Rachael Stewart adores conjuring up stories for the readers of Harlequin Mills & Boon and Deep Desires Press, with tales varying from the heart-warmingly romantic to the wildly erotic.

Despite a degree in Business Studies and spending many years in the corporate world, the desire to become an author never waned and it’s now her full-time pleasure, a dream come true.

A Welsh lass at heart, she now lives in Yorkshire with her husband and three children, and if she’s not glued to her laptop, she’s wrapped up in them or enjoying the great outdoors seeking out inspiration.

Social Media Links –

Website: www.rachaelstewartauthor.com

Twitter: @rach_b52

Facebook: www.facebook.com/rachaelstewartauthor/

 

Giveaway

 Win an e-copy of Mr. One Night Stand by Rachael Stewart (Open Internationally)

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Book Review: No Regrets (Small Town Big Love Series Book 3) by Kelly Collins

No Regrets

(Small Town Big Love Series Book 3)

by Kelly Collins

Amazon US / UK / AU / CA 

 

Their divorce papers are ready to sign. So why can’t they say goodbye?

Billionaire Samuel “Clem” Clemons Blackwood is tired of fighting with his wife. In an attempt to forget about his broken marriage, he agrees to help his sister save their tiny hometown from bankruptcy. But instead of signing the divorce papers, his former high school sweetheart joins the impossible rescue.

Kaitlin Blackwood can’t figure out where her perfect life went wrong. Even though she and Clem can’t stop fighting, she makes one last desperate attempt to rekindle their passion. As she starts to figure out where they want wrong, Kaitlin watches their years of bitterness begin to fade.

In the midst of Blackwood’s abysmal budget struggle, can Kaitlin and Clem’s marriage overcome its own deep deficit?

No Regrets… is the third book in the Small Town ~ Big Love series of contemporary romance novels. If you like billionaires with hearts of gold, sizzling chemistry, and second chance stories, then you’ll love Kelly Collins’ sweet and sexy tale.

 

 

My Rating:

 

 

Favorite Quotes:

 

“You’re lucky Kevin isn’t here. He’d arrest both of you for indecent exposure.” “I’d say what is exposed is pretty decent,” joked Damon, suddenly listening.

 

Nothing killed the mood like an old lady in loafers and knee-high stockings.

 

Mrs. Jensen, who was all set with her coat and gloves. Without them, she might freeze to death as she moved through the store in slow motion. It seemed she squeezed every peach and smelled every apple. No pear went untouched. Her gloves came off and were put back on between all the feels.

 

His impulse was to barrel through the grocery aisles and toss one of everything into the cart, but there was no way he could. She was a little old lady and if he was honest, she was funny. She went through all the bags of grapes, taking out the best ones and putting them in the bag she would buy. “I don’t think that’s allowed,” Clem whispered to Kaitlin. She giggled. “We’re all going to grape jail.”

 

Counseling is an excellent idea because the two of you are either causing sparks or throwing spears.

 

“I’m not ready for anyone to call me daddy except for Jennifer.” “Okay, TMI.” Clem shook his head like he was getting rid of a bug in his hair. “TMI.”

 

I’ve never been a father. I’ve never been married but my advice to you is to never refer to your wife as a cute butterball again.

 

My Review:

 

There were three main story threads in this installment; a wealthy family full of newlyweds facing major life changes; a dying tiny mountain town in flux; and a restless and dissatisfied couple struggling to decide the fate of their broken marriage. Each of which sounds rather mundane and lackluster on the surface yet Kelly Collins spins them into amusing and engaging storylines with humorous descriptions, witty banter, emotive insights, sizzling sensuality, and mind snagging and vibrant details. I didn’t expect to enjoy this couple as much as I did. Kaitlin and Clem initially seemed rather childish and highly volatile, however, they were impeccably well matched and adorably in sync well before the concluding chapters and brought a satisfying closure to the series.

ABOUT KELLY COLLINS   

Kelly Collins writes with the intention of keeping the love alive.

Always a romantic, she is inspired by real-time events mixed with a dose of fiction. She encourages her readers to reach the happily ever after but bask in the afterglow of the perfectly imperfect love.

Kelly lives in Colorado with her husband of twenty-seven years. She loves hockey, shiny objects and has a new-found appreciation for green smoothies.

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Book Review: Return to Lily Pond Lane (Lily Pond Lane #6) by Emily Harvale

 

Return to Lily Pond Lane

(Lily Pond Lane #6)

by Emily Harvale

 

Amazon US / UK / AU / CA

 

Life couldn’t be better for Mia and her friends in Little Pondale – until tragedy strikes…

Mia Ward is on cloud nine after a magical Christmas and New Year and she isn’t the only one. Everyone on Lily Pond Lane seems to be living in blissful harmony. Until tragedy strikes… not once, but twice. And as Hettie Turner points out: ‘Bad things always come in threes.’ Whilst the other residents of Little Pondale are wondering what might happen next, Mia is busy worrying about her friends and trying to help them with their grief. But she needs to be careful. Just when she thought she had everything, there’s a very real chance she might lose the only thing she truly wants.

My Rating:

Favorite Quotes:

 

I’m telling you now, Mia. If I die and Gill’s not around, or we die together, I want the whole shebang. A big carriage pulled by four beautiful black horses. More flowers than you could fill a shop with and everyone crying and saying how wonderful I was and that life will never be the same without me. Oh, and I want my ashes to be scattered on the moon, or somewhere equally fabulous. With all your dosh, you can arrange that, right?

 

‘I’d quite like to have my ashes scattered on Frog Hill. Or in Frog’s Hollow, near the pond.’ ‘What? So that you can watch everyone going skinny dipping on Midsummer’s Eve? You dirty old bag!’

 

… you’d better start learning how to change a nappy and hold your nose at the same time. God, that stuff stinks. I thought babies smelt of vanilla or something lovely like that, not like every toilet in the known universe has exploded and landed in their nappy. Make sure you’ve got plenty of wine in. We’re going to need it.

 

She loved having a pantry. It made her feel like Nigella Lawson – although Mia was far from being a domestic goddess. Sometimes, it was difficult to decide whether to ice her cakes, or use them as stepping stones in her soon-to-be, herb and vegetable garden.

 

My Review:

 

I always enjoy my adventurous stopovers in Emily Harvale’s Little Pondale, there is always some scandalous secret as well as covertly or overtly observed gossip fodder about to erupt. Poor old Hettie just cannot help herself, she feasts on the tittle-tattle and all the scurrying about to be the first to inform everyone else appears to her full-time job and only source of exercise. This quaint little village appears to be populated with an interesting mix of quirky residents with oddly amusing traits and customs. I adore them all and enjoy my visits, which are all too brief yet thankfully frequent.

About the Author

Having lived and worked in London for several years, Emily returned to her home town of Hastings where she now spends her days writing… and chatting on social media. Emily is a Member of the SoA, a PAN member of the RWA and a Pro Member of ALLi. She’s an Amazon bestseller and a Kindle All Star. Emily loves writing and her stories are sure to bring a smile to your face and a warmth to your heart.


Emily says, “I write about friendship, family and falling in love. I believe in happing endings.” When she isn’t writing, she can be found enjoying the stunning East Sussex coast and countryside, or in a wine bar with friends, discussing life, love and the latest TV shows. Chocolate cake is often eaten. She dislikes housework almost as much as she dislikes anchovies – and will do anything to avoid both.

Social Media Links –  https://www.facebook.com/emilyharvalewriter

https://www.twitter.com/emilyharvale

https://www.instagram.com/emilyharvale