Wednesday, September 11, 2013

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.

Monday, September 9, 2013

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.

Sunday, September 8, 2013

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.

Tuesday, September 3, 2013

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.

Sunday, September 1, 2013

Feasted On: Ever After Series, Book 1

Format: Kindle Edition | File Size: 188 KB | Release Date: October 5, 2009 | Publisher: Four Isles Press | Obtained: Amazon.com

"A Happily Ever After of Her Own" [Ever After Series, Book 1] by Nadia Lee (aka Angelle Trieste)

My Book Summary : For as long as Melinda has known she's been able to flit in and out of fairy tales, whenever her imagination gets the best of her. However, this is the first time that she's made it into a fairy tale, this time "Beauty and the Beast," and has been caught by the character's themselves, let alone been charged and accused of vandalism/thievery/possible murder--none of which she actually did--because of Beauty going missing. Now Melinda, with the help of the Beast (Edward), needs to rescue Beauty from the Evil Witch within the next three days or everything in her life will be changed ... forever!

My Book Review : 4.5 out of 5 stars!! This sweetly, romantic, lighthearted novella is one that will keep you entertained while you find out another side to the Beast! I really liked the enchantingly humorous banter that Melinda and Edward partake in, as it made me like them even more. Together they seemed to fit each other perfectly, especially after what Edward informs Melinda about his relationship with Beauty.

However, my favorite character was the Evil Witch, she was just so blunt in how she feels about everything that I couldn't help but enjoy her scenes. =0)

My only wish is that this novella had an epilogue so I could find out what happened after Melinda found her happily ever after.

I recommend this novella and series to anyone who enjoys new takes on fairy tale classics!

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

Author's Novel Extras : A Happily Ever After of Her Own - Overview, Excerpt, & Extras | Contacting Designers and Getting Quotes | A HAPPILY EVER AFTER OF HER OWN to Be a Free Serial Soon! | Serial Experiment | Evolution of a Serial I: The Decision to Make It Free | Exciting Read to Come: Free Novella! | Evolution of a Serial II: The Cover Art I | Evolution of a Serial III: The Cover Art II | Free Read: A HAPPILY EVER AFTER OF HER OWN Chapter 1 | Free Read: A HAPPILY EVER AFTER OF HER OWN Chapter 2 | Public Service Announcement | A Buckeye Girl Reads Loves A HAPPILY EVER AFTER OF HER OWN | Interview: Nadia Lee, author of A Happily Ever After of Her Own | Lovely June | How to Format Your Manuscript for Kindle | Interview by Kait Nolan | Review: A Happily Ever After of Her Own | A Happily Ever After of Her Own and Carnal Secrets - Now There Are eBooklets! | Review: A Happily Ever After of Her Own | Two Reviews | Interview and Contest with Nadia Lee | A HAPPILY EVER AFTER OF HER OWN (Ever After 1) Cracks Three Genre Lists on Amazon | First Book in Nadia's Ever After Series: FREE!

Author's Series Extras : Ever After Series - Overview | One Kiss - Overview, Excerpt, & Extras | Cover Reveal: One Kiss | New Release and Special Sale: One Kiss | One Kiss Hit Amazon's Kindle 100 Anthologies List!

Book Teaser(s) :
“This is very real, and I’m not going anywhere until you help me find Beauty and my dear aunt.”
“Your aunt?”
“Didn’t you know? The Evil Witch is my aunt.”
“No wonder you’re so charming.”
Edward made a face. “Good Lord no. Don’t confuse me with Charming.”
“Huh?”
“He’s my annoying twin.”
A mild headache began knocking inside Melinda’s temples. “Identical?”
“Technically. But of course I’m the more handsome.” It was just her luck. All the good-looking men she met were either married, gay or in touch with their inner Narcissus. She wanted to bang her head into her pillows—never against the wall because it would hurt too much. “What a huge mistake.”
“Indeed. You should’ve stayed in your world, so my aunt couldn’t have escaped. Your inconsiderate and foolhardy actions have caused all of us many problems.”
“Not that.” She glared at him. “I should never have complained about your looks. Then you would’ve stayed a Beast.” ~ within the chapter titled 'II. In Which Our Heroine Gets an Unwelcome Companion'
Edward said, “I knew she would steal it.”
“Sorry.”
“Now, children. I didn’t steal it. I just took it.”
That had to be some kind of family motto. ~ within the chapter titled 'VIII. In Which the Beast Is Doubly Cursed'
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Nadia, then please check out her website.
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