2013 National Truck & Tractor Pull

2013 National Truck & Tractor Pull
June 1st 2013
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Click here to find out more about Morgan's Corner & the National Truck & Tractor Pull.

Port Discover's 2013 Earth Day Celebration

Port Discover's 2013 Earth Day Celebration
April 20th 2013
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Click here for more information about Port Discover and their annual Earth Day Event.

Made the Grade: Kingdom Series, Book 5

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 330 KB | Expected Release Date: April 23, 2013 | Publisher: Self-Published | Obtained: NetGalley

"Hook's Pan" [Kingdom Series, Book 5] by Marie Hall

My Book Summary : Both are haunted by past events that stole a loved one from them ...
... but will their hearts be able to heal and show them their true feelings for each other or will they part as friends?

Ever since Trishelle's (Trisha) older sister died, she has held herself apart from getting close to anyone who could hurt her especially her heart. So when her best friend, Betty, informs her that soon a fairy named Danika (demon bug) plans to take her to Neverland where she will meet her mate, Captain James Hook, Trisha dosen't believe her thinking it's all a joke. That is until she meets the demon bug and literally lands at Hook's feet. However, when neither believes that Trisha is the reincarnated version of Hook's mate, and even if it was true she is quite different then who she once was, will they be willing to give each other a chance at love before it's too late? Or will they let bygones be bygones and part ways amicably?

My Book Review : 3.5 out of 5 stars, two people learn to open their hearts again to someone new, if only fate and a demon bug or two can give them a helping hand...

Trisha and Hook are a stubborn, adventurous, and entertaining duo that makes you root for them as soon as they meet! Both are still dealing with the deaths of loved ones who have been gone for quite some time, and with through the help of each other they learn to love "again." In addition, their novel opens up a whole new bunch of questions about what will happen next in this series! I cannot wait.

The only thing I do wish is that I liked the first few chapters of the novel, since I found them to be a bit slow. Yet, once Trisha and Hook get into the same room the action starts getting good!

I recommend this novel and series to anyone who likes new takes on fairy tales, especially if you were the one always rooting for the "bad guy." =0)

Purchase This Book and/or The Other Books From It's Series Here :

My Previous Review(s) for this Series : Book 1

Author's Novel Extras : Forbidden teaser | Hook's Pan updates | Sorry I've been M.I.A. | Weekend Writing Warriors: Post #2 (Hook's Pan) | Hook's Pan Update | Guess what I just uploaded tonight?? | Woot! It's out, it's out, it's out, it's out!! | Hook's Pan Book Tour Blog Hop Time!

Author's Series Extras : Kingdom Series - Overview | Thoughts...and fun factoid friday! | Don't bet on it, you goose stepping harpy!! | Hi guys | Gotta love new covers! | Wow! | Hatter! | Six Sentence Sunday: Her Mad Hatter | Gerard's Beauty Update | Her Mad Hatter is now FREE! | Hot Heroes Part Deux | Red and Her Wolf... da da da da... | Six Sentence Sunday (Or is it??) Red and Her Wolf | Amazon aggravations | Wow!! Lots of updates!! | I have a surprise!! | Her Mad Hatter, Kingdom Series Omnibus COVER REVEAL | ALPHA MALE BLOG HOP!! | Some quick updates | Cupcakes and Books... is there anything better?? | Getting so excited!!! | Kingdom Collection! | Update on Jinni's Wish | Black Friday Blog Hop | Thank you all for hopping! | New Years Blog Hop | Kingdom Collection Bargain | .99 cents Kingdom Series Collection! | HER MAD HATTER: NEW COVER REVEAL! | Lots of updates( Hook's Pan, Her Mad Hatter contest, etc..) | I have the *sniff sniff* best fans | Cover Reveal: Kingdom Chronicles PART 2 (Jinni's Wish/Hook's Pan/Danika's Surprise and bonus sneak peek of The Huntsmans Prey!)

Book Teaser(s) :

"You're lying. You're just teasing me."
He lifted one shoulder, picking at the tip of his hook. "Hmm."
She licked her lips. "You know that's not really an answer. And anyway, I thought genies could only grant three wishes."
"It's a cursed chest, the genie can deny the wisher nothing. Endless treasure."
"And it's inside your cabin, maybe it's not a lie. Seems like the kind of thing a dastardly pirate would want to keep close to him."
Eyes sparkling, he tipped his head. "Perhaps. Or perhaps it was an elaborate lie to force you to bend over so I could sneak a look at your red drawers again."
Biting her lip, she tugged the frock down, only now realizing she'd completely exposed herself to him. "You jerk."
He laughed. "Be that as it may, you will not leave this room unless you change. So what will it be, little bird? Trust or no?"
"Why do you keep calling me that?" she growled, more because if she didn't, she'd laugh. The man was obnoxiously hot and funny, who knew the villainous Hook had it in him?
"Because you've the skinny little legs of a bird and you fell in front of me like a chick from a nest. I'll admit, I've another reason for asking you to change. I despise your clothing. In fact, I fight the urge to rip it from you."
At first she almost grinned, until she noticed the sparkle in his eyes was gone. One part of his story did seem true, Hook hated Pan as much as the book portrayed. ~ within Chapter 7

"Call me a bastard," he growled, refusing to censure his thoughts in that moment because his heart was thumping too hard and his chest ached with something he could not name, "but I aim to ruin you for any other man." ~ within Chapter 13

For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Marie, then please check out her website.

Made the Grade: Dallas Billionaires Trilogy, Book 1

Format: Kindle Edition | File Size: 200 KB | Release Date: August 15, 2013 | Publisher: Unlimited Dreams Publishing | Obtained: Amazon.com

"Steven" [Dallas Billionaires Trilogy, Book 1] by Kirsten Osbourne

My Book Summary : Steven has a great life, he's rich, and he's just happy with whom he is. However, he didn't know anything or anyone was missing in his life until she walked through his door claiming he was a father.

Bailey's life is holding on by its seams. Her older sister recently passed away leaving her with a baby niece (Faith) to take care of (even though she looked after her mostly even before her sister died it's just now permanent), she lost her job, and just that morning got kicked out of her apartment. So, she goes to see Steven, the man her sister claimed was Faith's father, to see if he can help her support his own daughter. She just never considered he'd want her to move in with him as Faith's nanny, but since she loves her niece and wants to make sure, everything will work out for the baby girl, Bailey agrees.

Both of their lives are about to change in memorable ways, will they be able to keep their hearts out of the line of fire?

My Book Review : 3 out of 5 stars, this is a sweet novella about two people being brought together by a baby and learning more about themselves then they ever expected. As a couple, Steven and Bailey are very charming and playful. I liked them together and their banter.

My only wish was that these two were more on the same page with each other and talked about their feelings a little more then what they did. Plus, after finishing the novel and thinking about how Bailey and Steven's relationship progressed so quickly I thought it was a little unusual that for Steven Bailey was willing to change about 75% of her values just so she could "get to know him better." In some ways, it was sweet but mostly just surprising.

Overall, I do recommend this novella to anyone who is looking for a quick contemporary romance.

Purchase This Book and/or The Other Books From It's Series Here :

Book Teaser(s) :

“You can have cars delivered?” Her voice echoed the amazed look on her face.
He laughed. “With enough money you can have just about anything done.” He loved how innocent she was about money. Her sister had known exactly how to use it, and had expected him to buy her an expensive gift every time they went out. She was a refreshing change.
“Well how will I feed her and diaper her today?” She only had two diapers left and enough formula for one more bottle. They wouldn’t make it through the next three hours, let alone the next twenty-four.
He shrugged. “Connie can go. Make her a list.” His tone of voice made it clear he was used to ordering others to do whatever he didn’t want to do.
“Faith has been riding in that car since the day she was born. It’s never hurt her.” She had to make one more protest. She couldn’t just let a man she’d met the day before buy her a car. People didn’t really do that, did they?
“There’s always a first time. I didn’t know about her before. Now that I do, she’s not riding in that rattle-trap.” He didn’t say another word as he turned to go back into his office.
Bailey turned and stalked to the kitchen to make a list for Connie. “Your daddy is a pain in the butt, Faithy.”
“I heard that!”
“You were meant to!” ~ within Chapter 2

For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Kirsten, then please check out her on the Goodreads' website.

Made the Grade: Blind Wolf by Aubrey Rose

Format: Kindle Edition | File Size: 354 KB | Release Date: September 14, 2013 | Publisher: Self-Published | Obtained: Amazon.com

"Blind Wolf" by Aubrey Rose

My Book Summary : Julia's life has turned into one she wishes she could have improved. She's never gone to college, even though she works at one, because she doesn't have the money. The house where she grew up, and currently lives in, is under foreclosure and will be kicked out of soon if she doesn't find a way to come up with enough money soon. However, she has always had hope that, like the fairy tale princesses she read about growing up, her own prince would come to love her and help her out.

When she meets Damien, Julia has an instant connection to him and believes that he might just be her prince .... that is if he wasn't already attached to another woman...

My Book Review : 3.5 out of 5 stars! I know I'm stealing a line from another book when I say this, but it fits for this one, "seeing isn't believing, believing is seeing." This novella was about a blind alpha wolf trying to find a spot for his small pack to settle down in and when he finds a spot that seems to be perfect, he also finds his one true mate or so he thinks if she wasn't human.

Altogether, I liked Julia and Damien as a couple. Their connection is undeniable even though it takes a while for Damien to believe it for himself. Also, I enjoyed the uniqueness about this novella, with Damien dealing with his blindness to how Damien and Julia deal with their "Calling."

Nevertheless, I did feel that when Julia learns the truth about Damien she acts a little bit of a ninny about it, even though I will say that if I found out about his truth the same way Julia did I might act like a ninny too. Then towards the end of the novella, another twist comes into play that never really has a conclusion to, so I hope that it'll be answered once the sequel comes out.

I do recommend this novella to anyone who likes paranormal romances, especially ones based on werewolves.

Purchase This Book Here :

Author's Novel Extras : New Shifter Romance – Blind Wolf only $0.99!

Book Teaser(s) :

Julia reached out as Damien fell, but she had been too far away, changing. Her suit was only halfway on, and she quickly pulled the straps up over her shoulders and stepped over to the edge of the dock.
"Damien?"
He had gone under the surface of the water, and Julia waited, but he did not come up. Worry arced through her nerves.
"Damien?"
She looked around, but there was nobody else at the lake. Taking a deep breath, she jumped into the water. She gasped in shock at the cold, sputtering as she spun around in the water, her hands reaching out to try to find him.
Damien's head popped up from the lake surface behind her with a splash. She turned to see him, his dark hair dripping with water.
"Are you naked?" he asked. His eyes were closed, and he was grinning.
"Damien!" A rush of relief swept through her. She clung to one of the wooden dock pillars, her feet treading water. "No, I am not naked!"
"Darn," he said, swimming over to her. His hand reached out and she took it, guiding him to the pillar. He grasped the wood and hung there next to her, both of them breathing hard.
"That was a test," he said, as soon as he had caught his breath.
"A test?"
"To see how much you care about me dying."
"A test? A test?!" She splashed his face. She was so happy about him being alive that she didn't care how much water he got in his nose.
"Yes," he said, laughing and running his hand through his wet hair. ~ within Chapter 11

For more information on this book and/or any other books by Aubrey, then please check out her website.

Elizabeth City H.A.S. It's 2012 Christmas Parade Float

Elizabeth City Downtown's H.A.S. It's 2012 Christmas Float from From Me to You ... Videos on Vimeo.

Staff from Port Discover & Museum of the Albemarle came together to create Elizabeth City H.A.S. It's Float to participate in the 2012 Jaycees Christmas Parade in Elizabeth City, North Carolina.

Find out more about Elizabeth City H.A.S. It HERE.


Photography by Jessica Faulkingham & Chrissy Benton.

Cover Reveal: East of Ecstasy by Laura Kaye

"East of Ecstasy" [Hearts of the Anemoi Series, Book 4] by Laura Kaye
Imprint : Entangled Publishing : Select
Audience : Paranormal/Fantasy Romance
Novel length : 368 pages
Format : Paperback
Publication Released Date : April 22, 2014
Author's Book Cover :

Author's Book Description :

Annalise Fallston made peace with postponing her big-city dreams to care for her ill father, but lately she’s been filled with a restlessness not even her beloved painting dispels. Worse, the colors don’t speak to her as they always have, and all her efforts produce dark, foreboding images of a dangerous man and a terrifying future.

Devlin Eston, black-souled son of the evil Anemoi Eurus, is the only one who can thwart his father’s plan to overthrow the Supreme God of Wind and Storms. But first, Dev must master the unstable powers he’s been given. Distrusted and shunned by his own divine family, he never expected to find kindness and passion in the arms of a mortal.

But Devlin’s love puts Annalise in the path of a catastrophic storm, and in the final Armageddon showdown between the Anemoi and Eurus, sacrifices will be made, hearts broken, and lives changed forever...or lost.

Purchase This Book and/or The Other Books From It's Series Here :

About the Author :

Laura is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of over a dozen books in paranormal and contemporary romance. Growing up, Laura’s large extended family believed in the supernatural, and family lore involving angels, ghosts, and evil-eye curses cemented in Laura a life-long fascination with storytelling and all things paranormal. She lives in Maryland with her husband, two daughters, and cute-but-bad dog, and appreciates her view of the Chesapeake Bay every day.

My Previous Review(s) for this Series : Book 1

My Previous Mention(s) of this Author's Books/Characters : When & Where Are You? Thursdays: North of Need | Winter Themed Books To Warm You Up During the 2011 Holiday Season

** Be sure to add it to your TBR pile on Goodreads! **
Find Laura Kaye :

• Laura Kaye - Website
• Laura Kaye - Blog
• Twitter
• Facebook
• Newsletter SignUp
• Goodreads
• East of Ecstasy : Amazon.com | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository

Blog Tour - Covet Promo Reveal Blast Materials‏

Announcing the Covet One Day Sale!!!!
All of the Covet books are on sale TODAY ONLY for just $0.99 each. That means you can grab all of these great stories for less than $15!!

Covets have all the sexiness, emotion, and happily-ever-after that readers have come to expect and love from Entangled. They are firmly grounded in the contemporary world, but each novel brings in supernatural twists, breaking the contemporary and paranormal rules, alike. To find out more about our titles, chat with authors, participate in special events, and to find out what books you’ll be coveting next, visit the Entangled website, follow us on Twitter, like our Facebook page, and join our Book Club!!

Click on the covers for the links to Amazon!!


P.S. The fabulous Covet Authors have put together a scavenger hunt with a Kindle Fire as the prize. Hop on over to the event page to join in the fun!!

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Jess' Previous Review(s) for Tiffany Allee : Don’t Bite the Bridesmaid

Jess' Previous Review(s) for Jennifer L. Armentrout/J. Lynn : Tempting the Best Man

Jess' Previous Review(s) for Jenna Bennett : Tall, Dark, and Divine | Fortune's Hero

Jess' Previous Review(s) for Candace Havens : Take It Like a Vamp

Jess' Previous Review(s) for Melissa Bourbon Ramirez : Deceiving the Witch Next Door

Jess' Previous Review(s) for Susannah Scott : Luck of the Dragon

Jess' Previous Interview(s) with Jenna Bennett : August 2012

Jess' Previous Guest Post(s) by Jenna Bennett : Mysteries and More - November 2012

Jess' Previous Mention(s) of Jenna Bennett's Books/Characters : Teaser Tuesdays: Tall, Dark, and Divine | Best Book Couples -- Happy Valentine's Day 2013

Jess' Previous Mention(s) of Candace Havens's Books/Characters : Teaser Tuesdays: Take It Like A Vamp

What was I thinking?: Now & Forever Series, Book 1

Format: Kindle Edition | File Size: 313 KB | Release Date: April 22, 2012 | Publisher: Self-Published | Obtained: Amazon.com

"First Love" [Now & Forever Series, Book 1] by Melissa Johns

What was I thinking? : As soon as I read the Author's Book Description, I was hooked. I just wish it were as good as I had hoped.

Author's Book Description : Emily Stone has moved from her life in Texas to start over in New York. She left her friends and her father behind to be closer to her mother. She just wants to find happiness and maybe a few friends but when Eric Mason enters her life, she knows she wants more.

Eric has been raised to be a professional quarterback. His father has a plan and Eric isn’t allowed to stray off his path but the first day of his senior year, his eyes find Emily and he knows he won’t be the same again.

Struggling to keep a balance between school work, football and a social life, they find themselves falling in love with each other until the night of the Senior Prom when she learns the truth that Eric has been keeping secret from her. Will their love be able to remain strong?

Follow the paths of two different souls as they figure out the world together and find out what their future holds.

My Book Review : 1.5 out of 5 stars. I've wanted to read this novel ever since I saw it released, so when I found it on the free listings I had to pick it up. My only wish is that it wasn't so disappointing. Emily was just so immature and freaked out over the slightest things. Yet, one minute you're thinking she is just this sweet goody goody and within the next she turns into a mean b**ch. Eric wasn't that much better as a main character. I mean yes, he was devoted to Emily, but with his stupid small secrets and his over-demanding father, I feel he was really just swept up in lust not anything meaningful. Together I don't think these two really are going to work out in the long run.

I don't recommend this novel, but I hope for those who read it would like this novel better then me!

Purchase This Book and/or The Other Books From It's Series Here :

Author's Novel Extras : My First Book | New Information! | Happy Anniversary, First Love!! | The Joy! | First Love on Sale!!!

Author's Series Extras : Writing is tough on occasion! | First Love Pt 2 | Lazy Afternoon | Sad... | Bored on a Saturday Night! | Everlasting Love Description Released!!! | Clip from Everlasting Love.... | Everlasting Love Book Cover!!! | Forever Love | I NEED SUPPORT!!!! | Forever Love Preview - JUST RELEASED!!! | Another Milestone! | HELP!!!! | November | FOREVER LOVE BOOK COVER!!! | Forever Love Description | NOW & FOREVER ON SALE!! | 20,000 Sold! | Release Date for Forever Love | 30,000 Copies Sold! | Hope you are still around! | 35,000 Copies Sold!! | 40,000 Copies Sold! | Just because I love my fans... | Come On! | Now & Forever Series!! | Congrats to the Now & Forever Series!!!! | Now & Forever Book 4!!!!!!!! | Have you forgotten about me? | Summer has Arrived!!! | NOW & FOREVER ANNOUNCEMENT!!! | Great July! Thank You | I'm BAAAACCKKKKK!!! | Football Sunday!!


Book Teaser(s) :

Monday mornings are always difficult. You just finish the weekend and it feels like a lifetime until it comes around again. But, today was different, I knew the sooner I got going, the better my day would be.
I grabbed my jeans and my cute red t-shirt, as I looked into the mirror I noticed for the first time it hugged all the right spots. I still can’t believe the way I was looking at myself. I used to grab whatever wasn’t dirty and be content with that. But, I had a reason to look good. I clipped my hair back, leaving some of it over my shoulders. As I looked in the mirror one last time, I heard a car horn in the driveway.
I didn’t know who it could possibly be this early in the morning. I walked over to the window and smiled, it was Eric.
“Emily, I think you have a ride to school!” My mom called up from downstairs.
I grabbed my school work and headed downstairs with my stuff.
“Wow, Emily. You look fantastic.”
“Thanks, Mom, but really I’m not trying.”
She laughed again, “Sure.”
I hugged her good bye and headed out the door. I smiled at Eric as he got out of the car, “Emily, you look beautiful.”
He opened the door for me and I slid into his awesome Mustang, “Thanks for the ride this morning, you really didn’t need to do this. I don’t mind walking.”
He smiled, “How would it look if I let my girlfriend walk to school while I drove?”
I blushed again, “Girlfriend?”
This time he blushed a little, “I guess I never officially asked you, it’s just I had such a great time Saturday night.”
“I couldn’t agree more with you.”
He smiled, “So, would you be my girlfriend?”
“You sure your dad will be ok with this? I honestly don’t want you to lose focus on football and cause you any trouble.”
“Emily, you don’t have to worry about that. I will handle my father.”
I smiled at him as he pulled into his spot at the high school, “Let’s see if this will answer it for you then.”
I leaned over to him as I gently pressed my lips to his again. He responded very quickly to my lips, tasting them. ~ within the chapter titled 'IT’S OFFICIAL'

As I surfed the web, looking at articles, looking at clothes. I found a lingerie website and was amazed at what was out there. I giggled at myself trying to picture me wearing stuff like that. I definitely don’t think I’m ready for that. I laughed again as I heard my door open, I quickly shut my laptop and looked up.
“Hey Gorgeous, your mom said you were up here, so figured I would surprise you.” Eric said walking into my room.
Mom never had a problem with him in my room as long as I left the door open, which made me laugh every time. She had nothing to worry about.
“Hey you, I’m trying to keep warm I figured staying in my bed would help with that.”
He laughed, “You will get used to it, you haven’t seen the worst of it yet, Babe.”
I sighed, “Lucky me.”
“So, what are you looking at on your computer?”
I blushed quickly, trying to grab my laptop before he could but he was too fast, he grabbed it as he sat next to me on my bed, opening it up.
I wanted to hide underneath my bed and never come out as the website popped up and displayed the sexiest lingerie that I ever seen.
“Wow, Em, anything you want to discuss with me?”
“No, please no.”
He laughed and scrolled through the pictures, “Well, if I get a say, I like the black one, but you look hot in red also, but I will leave the choice to you.”
“Please God, stop, I’m so embarrassed right now.”
“Why, this is hot!”
I threw a pillow over my face and wanted to die. ~ within the chapter titled 'SEASONS CHANGE'

For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Melissa, then please check out her website.

Small Business Saturday/Week 2013

Hello Everyone!!

I'm trying to start planning this years Small Business Saturday/Week much earlier then I did in 2012 (which was completely last minute). Therefore, I have created a page on my blog that discusses what Small Business Saturday/Week is and how to participate. Click this link -- http://frommetoyouvideophoto.blogspot.com/p/about-small-business-saturdayweek.html -- to check it out.

If you'd like to participate please let me know before November 15th so I can be sure to get everything together. I hope to have a participation request form up within the next week!

Thanks again to everyone who participated in my 2012 event --- to see how it was click here -- I hope this year's event will be even better!

Best regards, Jess

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UPDATED on September 19th 2013 :: NOW I have a sign-up form on the Small Business Saturday/Week Page so if you are interested in becoming involved please CLICK HERE to sign up! Thanks!

Disappointmentville: Once Upon a Wedding Series, Book 1

Format: Kindle Edition | File Size: 450 KB | Release Date: September 7, 2010 | Publisher: Book View Cafe | Obtained: Amazon.com

"The Fairy Tale Bride" [Once Upon a Wedding Series, Book 1] by Kelly McClymer

My Book Summary : Five years ago, Simon--the Duke of Kerstone--had every intention of asking for Miranda's hand in marriage; despite her inclination to whole-heartedly believe that fairy tales can happen for everyone. That is until he over hears his mother tell his dying father about him being a bastard. After hearing that, Simon decides that he'll honor his "father" enough to make sure a true blood relation gains the title of Duke of Kerstone and teach him how to complete his duties, then he plans on disappearing.

Five years later, his plans have thus far worked to his advantage that is until Miranda comes back into his life with every hope of helping out her twin brother's happily-ever-after but instead she ends up becoming married to Simon!

Even after getting married, will Simon be able to follow through with his long ago plans or will he find that he has a change of heart?

My Book Review : 2.5 out of 5 stars. Wouldn't life be wonderful if fairy tales were real or if everyone could always get their own happily-ever-after? Miranda always believed things are supposed to be that way, so when she ends up being married to Simon--a man who is stoic and is very cynical of people--she makes it her mission to find a way to learn his secrets while assisting him to make sure he will have a very full life. If it were only that easy...

I found that while I loved the first seven chapters, right up until they got married, the challenges that Simon and Miranda seem to face from then on bounce between mysterious to ridiculous at times. Even more so when they both find more ways to not tell each other the truth then they do to nurture their relationship. And I do realize that yes, Simon's goal is to enjoy only about 75% of his relationship with Miranda so he won't mess up his plans, the antics and lengths that these two go through to finally get what they both want is a bit unbelievable.

Overall, I really wished I could like this novel. I read through it because I kept rooting for Simon and Miranda, wanting them to come to terms with what their original plans were and to truly get together, but I really think it was dragged out too much.

Even though I wasn't a fan of this novel, I recommend this novel to anyone who is a fan of Ms. McClymer and/or those who truly like all kinds of historical romances.

Purchase This Book and/or The Other Books From It's Series Here :

Author's Novel Extras : The Fairy Tale Bride - Overview & Excerpt | Backlist Soon to be Up Front Again! | We Interrupt our Ebook Format Saga to Announce: The Fairy Tale Bride is Live! | Front Matter Matters: Another in the Do What I Say, Not What I Do Series | Instant Karmic Smackdown — Hubris, I Thee Banish! | Results: The Grand FREE Experiment | Writers’ Chat: Self-Publishing in the Digital Age: Pitfalls and Advantages of Indie Publishing | Wedding Sale: The Fairy Tale Bride for 99 cents

Author's Series Extras : Once Upon a Wedding Series - Overview | The Star-Crossed Bride - Overview & Excerpt | The Unintended Bride - Overview & Excerpt | The Infamous Bride - Overview & Excerpt | The Next Best Bride - Overview & Excerpt | The Impetuous Bride - Overview & Excerpt | The Twelfth Night Bride - Overview & Excerpt | June Bride Blitz — A Month of Books with Brides and Weddings! | Confessions of a Turtle Mom: 47 – A Frown is Just an Upside Down Smile | Channeling Konrath, Eisler, Hocking and Locke – What I Learned in 50 Days Promoting My Backlist Book Sale | New Book! New Covers!! | Turtle Mom Wedding Whinesday: How Many Cards Tuck Into a Wedding Invitation? | Turtle Mom Wedding Whinesday: A Long-Haul Marriage, The Kardashians, and Bob and Sheri

Book Teaser(s) :

"Simon, I beg to be introduced to your lovely new bride." He came around the table and clapped Simon on the shoulder as he beamed at Miranda.
Simon could not help reflecting that Arthur would have been just as effusive if Miranda had been four feet tall and possessed of hairy warts on her nose and chin. Arthur had always been a bit unsure of his ability to carry out the duties of an heir. Simon's mother had sarcastically called him the "heir-reluctant." Simon might have laughed, if it were not so patently true.
He patted Miranda's hand briefly and then released her. "Yes. Miranda, I am pleased to present you to my cousin Arthur. Arthur, this is my bride, Miranda."
Arthur beamed. "Welcome to the family, my dear. I have been telling Simon that what he needs is a bride and children-not a distant cousin culled from nowhere to learn to perform duties he's not very good at to begin with."
Miranda looked at him in puzzlement. "Culled from nowhere? Surely not."
Arthur colored. "Of course I am a bonafide Watterly. I am just from a very distant branch of the family. We'd quite forgotten our ties to the Dukes of Kerstone until Simon reminded us, I daresay."
And happy to have done so, Simon thought to himself as he remembered the arguments that had preceded Arthur's agreement to be trained as Simon's heir. It was only the fact that, as the closest male relative, he would indeed inherit the title and lands whether or not he trained for the task that convinced him to take the offer and come to learn about his future duties. ~ within Chapter 12

Resolutely, she cleared her head of thoughts she could do nothing about and began writing again in a careful, flowing script her mother would have exclaimed with pride over. Duchess of Kerstone. Yes, her mother would have been pleased.
She thought of the life her sisters would bring to this austere home tomorrow. Swift upon the heels of that thought was the worry that Simon's health would be adversely affected. Well, then, Katherine and she would need to be even more observant than they had been. Not that there had been much to discover.
She wondered if Simon had tried the tea she had brought him this morning. The brew had smelled quite awful even with the lemon and sugar they had to add to make the odor more inviting, but Katherine thought it might help.
Try as she might to see Simon's point of view, she could not see the harm in drinking a cup of herbal tea. But his warning still rang in her ears — he did not want to be dosed.
When he had raised an eyebrow at the tea, she had forced herself to lie and say that Cook had over brewed it. She wondered if he had believed her. At least, if he had not, he made no protest. She took comfort in that small victory. ~ within Chapter 15

For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Kelly, then please check out her website.

Made the Grade: Lady Lancaster Garden Society Series, Book 2

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 436 KB | Expected Release Date: September 9, 2013 | Publisher: Entangled Publishing : Scandalous | Obtained: Entangled Publishing

"Romancing His English Rose" [Lady Lancaster Garden Society Series, Book 2] by Catherine Hemmerling

My Book Summary : When they were young children Rose and Simon's parents made a marriage contract between them and ever since it was expected that they are to be married once they were older and ready. However, when Simon found out about the contract, when he was about 10 yrs old, he rebelled against his family as much as he could so he would never be forced into anything.

Now years later, while Simon is enjoying his rakish ways Rose asks for his assistance in solving a mystery involving his evil cousin. After Simon agrees to assist Rose, they both find that they have more in common then they ever believed which blossoms into something a whole lot more. But as they're getting more involved into solving their mystery will they be able to avoid getting hurt in the process...

My Book Review : 3.5 out of 5 stars, this novel is about a certain mystery that brings together an "engaged" couple from being distant acquaintances to lovelorn sweethearts. I really liked this novel. Simon and Rose were an enticing couple that I wish I could read more about! Plus, the mystery that brings these too together is really fun to follow, especially how they learn to work together.

My only wish was that this novel had a bit more intrigue, and not that everything worked out as easily as it did for the couple, even though I liked how it wrapped up at the end.

I recommend this novel to anyone who is a fan of this series and to those who like suspenseful historical romances!

Purchase This Book and/or The Other Books From It's Series Here :

Author's Novel Extras : Romancing His English Rose - Overview & Excerpt | Rose's Book | Book 2 is on its way! | In Demand!

Author's Series Extras : Taming Her Forbidden Earl - Overview & Excerpt | Why I write | Why Historical Romance? | I'm not a slacker, I swear! | Internationally Published Author? Check!

Book Teaser(s) :

When Rose turned around to address Simon, she was presented with the ridiculous vision of him scrunched up uncomfortably in a chair clearly meant for a woman’s parlor—a diminutive woman, at that—with his legs crossed awkwardly, his elbows resting together on one knee, and his head held high in some attempt to look suave and sophisticated, while it was clear he was anything but.
Rose couldn’t help herself as she burst out laughing.
Simon growled at her merriment while he unfolded himself from the chair and, taking two steps to his right, settled into a much larger, much more comfortable armchair.
Her mother had returned from a recent shopping excursion with a variety of new chairs, most of which she had put in the library until she could decide where to place them in the rest of the house. Rose had seen this happen before and invariably all of the temporarily placed furniture ended up remaining where it was from that point forward. ~ within Chapter 4

Try smiling; it hides a multitude of sins.
—The Duke of Lancaster ~ within Chapter 5

“Do you think if I held you on my shoulders you could reach the window?”
“Enough to see inside, maybe, but I don’t think I would be able to open it.”
“That’s all right,” Simon replied. “I don’t believe that type of window opens anyway.”
“Then why do you want me to reach it?”
“I just want you to look around. Hopefully something you see will give us an idea of where to look for the entrance.”
“Oh,” Rose said. “That’s quite a good idea.”
“I’m so glad you think so,” Simon responded wryly.
Rose caught his tone and she stuck her tongue out at him.
“Very mature,” Simon muttered, as he crouched down to allow Rose to sit on his shoulders.
“It would behoove you not to make snide comments to a person who will very soon be able to step on your head,” Rose suggested.
“And it would behoove that person not to do anything that may cause me to drop her on her pretty little bum.”
“Point taken,” Rose acknowledged with a nod as she climbed gingerly onto his shoulders, clinging uncertainly to his head.
“Hmph,” Simon grunted, both in response to Rose’s acquiescence and with the effort needed to raise them both up from his bent position. ~ within Chapter 13

For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Catherine, then please check out her website.

Made the Grade: Cinderella Series, Book 1

Format: Kindle Edition | File Size: 643 KB | Release Date: March 15, 2012 | Publisher: Self-Published | Obtained: Amazon.com

"The Wronged Princess" [Cinderella Series, Book 1] by Kae Elle Wheeler (aka Kathy L. Wheeler)

My Book Summary : Cinderella had gone to the ball and had the night of her life. Then she comes home and deals with her reality: a truly evil step mother (Hilda) who for some unknown reason has always hated her enough to try to find ways to accidentally kill her (not that Cinderella ever knew), and two step sisters (Pricilla & Esmeralda) who never ceased to find ways to make her life more miserable (which their mother encouraged, otherwise their lives would have been bad too). Nevertheless, when she hears about Prince Charming's goal of trying her glass slipper on every fair maiden in the kingdom, she isn't happy with the (stupid) idea but she is hopeful. That is until Esmeralda tries on the slipper and IT FITS!! Now it seems that her life is truly going to come to an end unless some new and old friends, a conspiring Queen, a determined Prince, and one enchanting Fairy Godmother can find a way to make everything better...

My Book Review : 3.5 out of 5 stars! This is a fun take on a fairytale classic with a bit of an entertaining mix of the Rodgers and Hammerstein's version and Disney's "Cinderella III: A Twist in Time" thrown in. I liked the wit, humor, and sweet romance that made up this novel. The relationship that grows between Cinderella, Pricilla, and Esmeralda is really, what made me enjoy this novel as much as I did.

My only wish is that Prince Charming wasn't portrayed as being so dense. Also, I'm curious what really happened to the evil step mother, since in the novel it was insinuated that Pricilla did something to her but the result never really panned out, yet the novel doesn't tell you why or where is she now, so hopefully it's in the other novels in this series.

I recommend this novel to those who are true lovers of fairytales and like happily-ever-afters no matter the cost!

Purchase This Book and/or The Other Books From It's Series Here :

Author's Novel Extras : The Wronged Princess - Overview

Author's Series Extras : The Unlikely Heroine - Overview | The Surprising Enchantress - Overview | The English Lily - Overview | The English Lily – Charles Thomas speaks out | Good Morning America! | Broadway revisited: complete the story with a new Cinderella Series | Another Scrimshaw Book in the conception stages? ~~ Kae Elle Wheeler

Author's Book Trailer :

Book Teaser(s) :

Queen Thomasine almost rue the day she’d had a son.
Non, that was not quite right, for she loved her son dearly. But she’d be hard pressed to refrain from admitting that the comfort of a daughter would have served quite pleasant. Someone with whom she could embroider, or titter on about the failings of men. She sighed. It would have made for excellent bonding experiences.
Regrettably, that had not been her destiny.
She shook away the fantasies and turned to the misfortune at hand. For days now, seven to be precise, Prince had moped about the palace, hoping against hope, his lovely young woman would somehow reappear. Drop into his life the same way she’d dropped out.
Thomasine had deliberately let a full sennight of his nonsense persist before finally summoning him to set forth she and her twin’s underhanded scheme. ’Twas not without some guilt, however.
She quashed the feelings ruthlessly.
“Have you decided what it is you are to do now, mon fils? You have spent this week past doing naught but brooding and sulking about.”
His gaping shock was most telling.
“Mamán,” he said sharply—deeply offended.
She bit back a searing retort, irritated that young men dared think a mother could not possibly understand such a dilemma. Bah, what was it with today’s children? Did they believe their parents had sprung from the womb grown? Not experienced love and infatuations in their youth? That they had had a youth? ~ within Chapter 2

For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Kae Elle, then please check out her website.

Feasted On: Ballymuir Series, Book 1

Format: Kindle Edition | File Size: 706 KB | Release Date: August 17, 2012 | Publisher: Koa'e Press | Obtained: Amazon.com

"The Last Bride in Ballymuir" [Ballymuir Series, Book 1] [Previously published as "The Homecoming"] by Dorien Kelly

My Book Summary : Michael has just gotten out of prison after being locked away for a crime he didn't commit. The only place open to him is his sister's house in Ballymuir, because she believes he's innocent and has hopes for him to make a new start for himself. However, what Michael never expected was to fall for Kylie, a woman who could run for sainthood if she tried but has her own bag-full of secrets that seem to get in the way. Will they be able to weather the storm heading for them, a mixture of people from both their pasts coming for them, or will everything and everyone pull them apart for good?

My Book Review : 4 out of 5 stars! A sweet suspenseful novel about a man and woman trying to overcome their pasts while learning to place their trust in someone new.

In truth, I was surprised that this novel was a contemporary romance because when I was searching on Amazon.com I think I found this in the historical romance listing. Yet nevertheless, this novel reeled me in with its plot, hooked me with its main characters, and made me want more with its entertaining secondary characters.

Michael is a brooding, protective, softhearted man who has nothing to loose when he arrives in Ballymuir but when he meets Kylie he finds he has everything to gain if only he's willing to try. Kylie is a sweet, loving, forgiving woman who has had to put up with a lot of heartache and drama in her life, then when she meets Michael, she finds that everything she thought she wanted for herself instantly changes into wanting something more.

I loved them together and I'm really happy with the way this novel plays out. I would recommend it to anyone who likes contemporary romances, especially ones based in Ireland. =0)

Purchase This Book and/or The Other Books From It's Series Here :

Author's Series Extras : Pinterest: Ballymuir Novels

Book Teaser(s) :

“You’re no farmer,” he said.
Kylie gave an apologetic sigh as she ladled out the soup. “Nor a chef, either.” Putting a bowl at the place she’d set for him, she said, “I’m a primary teacher at Gaelscoil Pearse—one of the local All-Irish schools. An bhfuil Gaeilge agat?”
A smile, almost too brief to be seen, passed across his face. “I speak a word or two, but none that I’ll be trotting out for an expert like you. And now you’re teaching it to the young? It’s a grand thing you’re doing.”
She felt her face color at the compliment; she received them so painfully seldom. Kylie smiled her thanks. “Milk? It’s fresh this morning.” At his “please,” she busied herself pulling two clean glasses from the shelf and the milk from her small refrigerator.
The milk, at least, would be right. The bread was another issue. On her pay, store bought was an impossibility. Home-baked, on the other hand, was a punishment. She sawed frantically at the loaf, wishing not for the first time that she’d had a mother long enough to teach her these basic things. With luck, Michael Kilbride had a forgiving nature because he’d have much to forgive after this meal. ~ within Chapter 1

“You mean you can cook this well and you’ve not shared with me? You’ve bloody well betrayed me in my own kitchen.”
Michael just looked back over his shoulder at her. “And how, exactly, did you think that dog of yours has grown fat as a sausage roll? And more important, how’d you think I avoided starvation? Though it was a near thing,” he added before deftly flipping the eggs, leaving their yolks perfectly intact. “And as for sharing with you, you’ll note I’m not much for tofu or whatever that gelatinous block of white stuff you live on is.”
Vi grabbed a pot of raspberry preserves. “The stuff in the fridge? I don’t live on that! I’m just keeping it till I remember what it is, or until it has a life of its own—whichever comes first.”
Michael laughed. ~ within Chapter 20

For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Dorien, then please check out her website.

Idolizing In: Battlescars Series, Book 1

Format: Kindle Edition | File Size: 463 KB | Release Date: March 12, 2013 | Publisher: Self-Published | Obtained: Amazon.com

"Battlescars" [Battlescars Series, Book 1] by Sophie Monroe

My Book Summary : When Jake's band, Battlescars, first started out he was the quintessential bad boy rocker, but, within the past year, he has cleaned himself and his lifestyle up, even if the media doesn't seem to believe it. Therefore, when he meets Aubrey--a snarky, eclectic woman who has had to deal with a lot of bad things in recently and happens to be a stewardess for her father's private airline--Jake can't happen but be enthralled. So much so that not long after they meet Jake makes plans on pursuing her until she agrees. After Aubrey does, finally, agree to be his girlfriend Jake makes sure that he spoils her and makes her feel special as much as possible.

However, someone from Aubrey's past is determined to have her the way he's always wanted, no matter the cost...

My Book Review : 5 out of 5 stars!! Charming, thrilling, and sarcastic the whole way through, this is one rock & roll fairy tale that is hard not to love! Aubrey and Jake are a perfect pair, from their humorous antics to Jake's self-deprecating ways to how they come to fight for each other as best they can. I loved their whirlwind romance; especially how Jake goes about trying to win Aubrey over it was all very gentlemanly.

In addition, Jake's band mates were an entertaining bunch all on their own. It'll be interesting and fun to see where this series will go next!

I recommend this novel and series to anyone who enjoys contemporary romances! Also, I recommend this to those who like reading about hot rock star heroes finding their better halves.

Purchase This Book and/or The Other Books From It's Series Here :

Author's Novel Extras : Jake's Interview | Battlescars Update | Official Battlescars Playlist | Here's the synopsis for Battlescars | So for Sunday Sneak-Peek I'm putting up Jake's mini story | Hey guys. Most of you are probably unaware, but I would like to address any possible concerns that may arise.

Author's Series Extras : Afflicted First Chapter | Since I always have a playlist at the end of each book, here's Afflicted's | Afflicted (Battlescars II) e-book Giveaway! 4 Copies up for grabs | Are you Team Blake or Team Jake??? | Blog Tour: AFFLICTED (Battlescars #2) by Sophie Monroe | Since it's Monday and they suck here's a teensy teaser... | ***TEASER TIME*** | A little Conflicted teaser for my Monroe Minions... | When you think about your life are there things you would reverse? | Morning Minions... it's teaser time!!!! | Want a glimpse into Conflicted?

Author's Fan Created Book Trailer :

Book Teaser(s) :

“I like you Aubrey. I can tell by your sarcastic undertones, rude comments and sheer lack of common decency that we’re going to friends in no time. I can just tell.”
“Whatever you say, Boss.” I grumbled.
I turned my attention back to my book until the timer went off letting me know that the food was ready. I expertly prepared the dishes. They looked as if they came out of a five-star restaurant. I placed them down on the trays in front of the boys. Jake devoured it and moaned the whole time earning a secret laugh from me. Maybe he wouldn’t be so awful after all.
He called to me over his shoulder. “If you cook like this all the time we’re skipping the friend stage and getting married.”
I take that back, we’re going to kill each other. I sat down and curled into a ball. I lost the battle of the heavy lids. ~ within Chapter 1 - titled 'Everywhere I Go' - Aubrey

I kept my promise last night to make up for Veronica and ordered Aubrey the biggest brownie sundae that the hotel had to offer. She moaned the entire time, which led to me having to excuse myself to the bathroom for the “shits.” This morning we were meeting everyone in the lobby for breakfast. Surprisingly , we got there first. Aubrey and I ordered waffles and bacon. Brett ordered eggs and sausage. Kevin came down next. He was always so laid back and easy going. Aubrey called him the Valium for the group. He said good morning to everyone and ordered his tofu scramble. Blake was next. He stumbled into the booth half awake. He ordered a coffee and put his head on the table. Derek was last. He showed up with a huge grin on his face. He was most likely up all night doing horrible things to corrupt the girl that he brought back to his room.
“Good night?” Blake mumbled to Derek.
“She told me she wanted a magical night with a rock star. So I fucked her and disappeared.” Derek said.
Blake laughed, and Kevin scoffed.
“You found it offensive, I found it funny. That’s why I’m happier than you.” Derek said to Kevin.
“Acting like a dick won’t make yours any bigger.” Kevin said. “I’m sorry my sense of humor offended you.” Derek laughed.
“Alright, it’s too early for all these insults.” I reprimanded. ~ within Chapter 7 - titled 'Claws & Daggers' - Jake

For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Sophie, then please check out her website.