November 29, 2017

Hummus and Homicide by Tina Kashia - Cover Reveal

When Lucy Berberian quits her Philadelphia law firm and heads home to Ocean Crest, she knows what she’s getting—the scent of funnel cake, the sight of the wooden roller coaster, and the tastes of her family’s Mediterranean restaurant. But murder wasn’t on the menu . . . Things are slow in the off-season in this Jersey Shore town, but Lucy doesn’t mind. She doesn’t even mind waitressing at the Kebab Kitchen. Her parents have put in a new hummus bar, with every flavor from lemon to roasted red pepper. It’s fun to see their calico cat again, and to catch up with her old BFF, who’s married to a cop now.
She could do without Heather Banks, though. The Gucci-toting ex-cheerleader is still as nasty as she was back in high school . . . and unfortunately, she’s just taken over as the local health inspector. Just minutes after eating at the Kebab Kitchen—where she’s tallied up a whole list of bogus violations—she falls down dead in the street. Word on the grapevine is it’s homicide, and Lucy’s the number one suspect . . .
Recipes included!

Ready…..

                     

Set…..

                       

Reveal!!

                     

Coming February 27, 2018 from Kensington Books!!

You can pre-order your copy today!!

Amazon B&N kobo Google Play INDIEBOUND

Altered to Death by Christina Freeburn - Spotlight and Giveaway

 

Book details
Cozy Mystery 6th in Series 
Henery Press (November 28, 2017) 
Paperback: 276 pages 
ISBN-13: 978-1635112795 
E-Book ASIN: B0758DG23P
  

Book description
Looking for a craft cozy so memorable you’ll stay up late scrapping about it? Well, welcome to the town of Eden.

Faith Hunter, who is supposed to be planning her wedding, instead finds herself distracted by the town scrapbook she was commissioned to create. Eden’s oldest mystery, the founding family’s exodus nearly a hundred years ago, remains unsolved.

A search through the family’s abandoned mansion leads to the uncovering of bones on that very property. And then ex-boyfriend Steve Davis announces a surprise heir has staked a claim.

How can Faith not be distracted? Now she’s determined to dig up the truth left behind.

Because scrappers are multi-taskers extraordinaire, Faith can’t say no when family friend Wyatt Buford asks her to look into his deadbeat father’s disappearing act and his connection to the murder.

Her quest for answers unearths secrets past and present that some would prefer stay buried at any cost. Faith’s resolve to present the facts and nothing but about Eden’s history could lead to her own future being cut short.

See what I mean about memorable? Delve in to Eden and you’ll find a cozy you won’t soon forget.

Meet the Author - Christina Freeburn
The Faith Hunter Scrap This Mystery series brings together Christina Freeburn’s love of mysteries, scrapbooking, and West Virginia. When not writing or reading, she can be found in her scrapbook room or at a crop. Alas, none of the real-life crops have had a sexy male prosecutor or a handsome police officer attending.

Christina served in the JAG Corps of the US Army and also worked as a paralegal, librarian, and church secretary. She lives in West Virginia with her husband, children, a dog, and a rarely seen cat except by those who are afraid or allergic to felines.

Author Links:
Webpage: www.christinafreeburn.com
Blog: www.theselfrescueprincess.wordpress.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Christina-Freeburn-Author/245592138834150
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ChristinaFreeb1
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/ChristinaFreeburn

Purchase Links Amazon B&N kobo

Giveaway


TOUR PARTICIPANTS 
November 27 – Celticlady's Reviews - SPOTLIGHT, GIVEAWAY 
November 27 – A Chick Who Reads – REVIEW 
November 28 – Books,Dreams,Life - SPOTLIGHT, GIVEAWAY 
November 28 – Deal Sharing Aunt – INTERVIEW 
November 29 – Varietats - REVIEW, GUEST POST 
November 29 – A Holland Reads - SPOTLIGHT, GIVEAWAY 
November 30 – T's Stuff - SPOTLIGHT, GIVEAWAY 
December 1 – Teresa Trent Author Blog - GUEST POST, GIVEAWAY 
December 2 – Laura's Interests - REVIEW 
December 3 – Babs Book Bistro - SPOTLIGHT, GIVEAWAY 
December 4 – View from the Birdhouse - SPOTLIGHT, GIVEAWAY 
December 5 – Melina's Book Blog – REVIEW 
December 5 – 3 Partners in Shopping, Nana, Mommy, & Sissy, Too! - SPOTLIGHT, GIVEAWAY December 6 – Girl with Book Lungs - REVIEW 
December 7 – A Blue Million Books – INTERVIEW

November 28, 2017

Moonlight Over Manhattan by Sarah Morgan - Review

I received this book free from the author. All opinions are my own

Book details
Mass Market Paperback: 400 pages
Publisher: HQN Books (November 28, 2017)

Book description
Sarah Morgan is back with more love and laughter in her acclaimed series, From Manhattan With Love, which Publishers Weekly calls a “sweep-you-off-your-feet romantic experience.”

Determined to conquer a lifetime of shyness, Harriet Knight challenges herself to do one thing a day in December that scares her, including celebrating Christmas without her family. But when dog walker Harriet meets her newest client, exuberant spaniel Madi, she adds an extra challenge to her list—dealing with Madi’s temporary dog sitter, gruff doctor Ethan Black, and their very unexpected chemistry.

Ethan thought he was used to chaos, until he met Madi—how can one tiny dog cause such mayhem? To Ethan, the solution is simple—he will pay Harriet to share his New York apartment and provide twenty-four-hour care. But there’s nothing simple about how Harriet makes him feel.

Ethan’s kisses make Harriet shine brighter than the stars over moonlit Manhattan. But when his dog-sitting duties are over and Harriet returns to her own home, will she dare to take the biggest challenge of all—letting Ethan know he has her heart for life, not just for Christmas?



Meet the author - Sarah Morgan
USA Today bestselling author Sarah Morgan writes lively, sexy contemporary stories for Harlequin.

Romantic Times has described her as ‘a magician with words’ and nominated her books for their Reviewer’s Choice Awards and their ‘Top Pick’ slot. In 2012 Sarah received the prestigious RITA® Award from the Romance Writers of America. She lives near London with her family.

Connect with Sarah
Website | Facebook | Twitter

My thoughts
This was a good addition to this fun series. I have enjoyed each one in their own way. The titles for each of the books are fun. I liked following Harriet as she decided to do one thing a day that scares her. I totally understand the shyness issue and thought it was nice that was trying to go out of her comfort zone. The dog's (Madie) antics were fun as they helped to bring Harriet and Ethan together. Madie's was a handful but a cute one. I thought the holiday setting of this book was fun as well. The author's writing style makes the book easy to read. I liked that there was a bit of comedy mixed in with the romance. If you are looking for a fun series that will grab you from the first one, then I suggest this author. 


TOUR STOPS:

Monday, November 27th: Katy’s Library blog and Instagram
Monday, November 27th: Romancing the Book
Tuesday, November 28th: Moonlight Rendezvous
Tuesday, November 28th: A Holland Reads
Wednesday, November 29th: Books & Bindings
Thursday, November 30th: A Thousand Books to Read on Instagram
Thursday, November 30th: A Chick Who Reads
Friday, December 1st: Thoughts of a Blonde
Monday, December 4th: Literary Llama blog and Instagram
Monday, December 4th: Cara’s Book Boudoir
Tuesday, December 5th: Bewitched Bookworms
Wednesday, December 6th: Laura’s Reviews
Wednesday, December 6th: Girls in Books blog and Instagram
Thursday, December 7th: From the TBR Pile
Thursday, December 7th: Kritter’s Ramblings
Friday, December 8th: View from the Birdhouse
Friday, December 8th: Chick Lit Central
Monday, December 11th: The Sassy Bookster
Monday, December 11th: Ms. Nose in a Book
Tuesday, December 12th: Novel Gossip blog and Instagram
Tuesday, December 12th: Snowdrop Dreams
Wednesday, December 13th: Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers
Thursday, December 14th: Literary Jo Reviews blog and Instagram
Friday, December 15th: Not in Jersey blog and Instagram
Monday, December 18th: Why Girls are Weird
Tuesday, December 19th: Diary of a Stay at Home Mom
Tuesday, December 19th: Cheryl’s Book Nook
Wednesday, December 20th: Stranded in Chaos
Friday, December 22nd: Thoughts on This ‘n That

November 27, 2017

There is Always a Tomorrow by Anna Belfrage - Review and Giveaway


I received this book free from the author. All opinions are my own.


Book details

There is Always a Tomorrow by Anna Belfrage
Publication Date: November 5, 2017
Timelight Press
eBook & Paperback; ISBN: 9781788039666
Series: Graham Saga, Book #9
Genre: Historical Fiction/Time-Slip

Book description
There is Always a Tomorrow is the ninth book in Anna Belfrage’s time slip series featuring time traveller Alexandra Lind and her seventeenth century husband, Matthew Graham. It is 1692 and the Colony of Maryland is still adapting to the consequences of Coode’s Rebellion some years previously. Religious tolerance in the colony is now a thing of the past, but safe in their home, Alex and Matthew Graham have no reason to suspect they will become embroiled in the ongoing religious conflicts—until one of their sons betrays their friend Carlos Muñoz to the authorities. Matthew Graham does not leave his friends to rot—not even if they’re papist priests—so soon enough most of the Graham family is involved in a rescue attempt, desperate to save Carlos from a sentence that may well kill him. Meanwhile, in London little Rachel is going through hell. In a matter of months she loses everything, even her surname, as apparently her father is not Master Cooke but one Jacob Graham. Not that her paternity matters when her entire life implodes. Will Alex and Matthew be able to help their unknown grandchild? More importantly, will Rachel want their help?
Amazon US | Amazon UK | Barnes & Noble | IndieBound

Meet the author - Anna Belfrage
Anna was raised abroad, on a pungent mix of Latin American culture, English history and Swedish traditions. As a result she’s multilingual and most of her reading is historical- both non-fiction and fiction. Possessed of a lively imagination, she has drawers full of potential stories, all of them set in the past. She was always going to be a writer – or a historian, preferably both. Ideally, Anna aspired to becoming a pioneer time traveller, but science has as yet not advanced to the point of making that possible. Instead she ended up with a degree in Business and Finance, with very little time to spare for her most favourite pursuit. Still, one does as one must, and in between juggling a challenging career Anna raised her four children on a potent combination of invented stories, historical debates and masses of good food and homemade cakes. They seem to thrive… For years she combined a challenging career with four children and the odd snatched moment of writing. Nowadays Anna spends most of her spare time at her writing desk. The children are half grown, the house is at times eerily silent and she slips away into her imaginary world, with her imaginary characters. Every now and then the one and only man in her life pops his head in to ensure she’s still there. Other than on her website, www.annabelfrage.com, Anna can mostly be found on her blog, http://annabelfrage.wordpress.com – unless, of course, she is submerged in writing her next novel.

You can also connect with Anna on Facebook, Twitter and Goodreads

My thoughts
Anna has done it again and given us a another great book in her series. She always does such great research when writing her books. For me this is an added bonus for me as it makes the book even more interesting. You can really get a sense of the places she is describing. I also thinks she does a good job with her character development. This book has all things you need in a good book - adventure and romance. You have two stories going on and when you are reading about Alex and Matthew you want to be with Rachel and when you are with Rachel you want to be with Alex and Matthew. I was sorry to see this book end as now I have to wait for the next book by Anna to be finished. This is the ninth book in this series and I suggest you read this book in the order it was written so you do not miss out on details of the saga.

Giveaway
During the Blog Tour we will be giving away 2 eBooks & 2 paperback copies of There is Always a Tomorrow! To enter, please enter via the Gleam form below.

Giveaway Rules
– Giveaway ends at 11:59pm EST on December 21st. You must be 18 or older to enter.
– Giveaway is open INTERNATIONALLY.
– Only one entry per household.
– All giveaway entrants agree to be honest and not cheat the systems; any suspect of fraud is decided upon by blog/site owner and the sponsor, and entrants may be disqualified at our discretion.
– Winner has 48 hours to claim prize or new winner is chosen.



Blog Tour Schedule
Monday, November 27 
Review at A Holland Reads 

Tuesday, November 28 
Excerpt at Locks, Hooks and Books Wednesday, 

November 29 
Review at Pursuing Stacie 

Thursday, November 30 
Feature at WS Momma Readers Nook 

Friday, December 1 

Sunday, December 3 
Feature at T's Stuff 

Monday, December 4 
Review at A Chick Who Reads 

Tuesday, December 5 
Excerpt at A Literary Vacation 

Wednesday, December 6
Feature at The Lit Bitch 

Thursday, December 7 
Feature at A Bookaholic Swede 

Friday, December 8
Review at A Bookish Affair 

Monday, December 11 

Tuesday, December 12 

Wednesday, December 13 

Thursday, December 14 
Feature at Passages to the Past 

Friday, December 15 
Review at Book Nerd 

Monday, December 18 
Feature at A Book Geek 

Tuesday, December 19 

Wednesday, December 20 
Review at Jorie Loves a Story 

Thursday, December 21 
Review at Broken Teepee 
Interview at Jorie Loves a Story


Holiday Miracle in Apple Blossom by June McCrary Jacobs - Interview and Giveaway


Book details
Print Length: 144 pages
Publisher: Cedar Fort, Inc. (October 1, 2013)
Publication Date: October 1, 2013
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services LLC
Language: English
ASIN: B00FL1W2CW

Book description
“What's happened?” Amber asked.
“One of your students was critically injured in an accident.”
Amber let out a squeak. “Who?”

Tragedy brings heartache to the community of Apple Blossom. A car takes the life of 6-year-old Mary Noel Simmons’s best friend—her dog—and nearly destroys Mary Noel’s spirit as well. Now she lies at the hospital, traumatized and silent, while the medical bills are piling up with no way for her parents to pay them.

That is, until Mary Noel’s teacher, Amber Kellen, breaks out of her quiet, lonely life to help.

With the help of her new friend Paul, Amber sets out to solve the family’s financial problems by involving the entire community. And as the two friends work together, they discover that creating a Christmas miracle may also has some unexpected benefits. Filled with romance and kindness, this story of hope and faith will warm your hearts.

Meet the author - June McCrary Jacobs
Award-winning author, June McCrary Jacobs, won Cedar Fort Publishing’s 2013 Holiday Tale Contest for her debut novella, ‘A Holiday Miracle in Apple Blossom’. ‘Robin’s Reward’, released in April, 2015, was her first full-length novel. This inspirational contemporary romance is the first installment of the ‘Bonita Creek Trilogy’. The series is set in June's favorite location in California—the Mendocino coastal region. June’s original sewing, quilting, and stitchery designs have been published in over one hundred books, magazines, and sewing industry blogs in the past few years. She wrote a recurring column for a sewing magazine published in Great Britain and contributed several other articles to sewing and craft magazines published in the United States. When she’s not writing, reading, or sewing, June enjoys cooking, walking, photography, and visiting art and history museums, parks, and botanical gardens. She also enjoys touring historic homes {especially when they're decorated for Christmas!} and strolling around the many historic Gold Rush towns in the Sierra Nevada foothills. In the summertime you can find June at a variety of county fairs and the California State Fair admiring the sewing projects, quilts, and handiwork other inspired seamstresses, quilters, craftspeople, and artists have created.

CONNECT WITH THE AUTHOR: June enjoys connecting with readers, authors, aspiring authors, bloggers, designers, sewers, quilters, and crafters. Please connect with June at the following platforms: 


BUY LINKS: 

Interview
1. Who or what inspired you to start writing?JMJ: I believe my love for reading inspired my love for writing way back when I was a child. I liked to write poems, and as I grew older I decided I wanted to be an author. As an adult, I decided I had a lot to say through my fictional characters and stories so I began writing fiction in 2010 or so. I had previously written a column and other articles for sewing and crafting magazines published in the United States and the United Kingdom.

2. What do you do to help you get over writer's block?
JMJ: I rarely have writer's block because I have a lot of different story ideas recorded in my journals and sketch books. When my current writing project is not going well for me, I switch gears and work on something else or write a poem. Also, listening to classical music, reading my Bible, and sewing help me get back in focus.

3. Do you have scheduled writing time or a certain amount of words you write each day?
JMJ: I find I am the freshest in the mornings, so I try to dedicate time to write each weekday morning. I don't hold myself to a minimum or maximum on pages or words. I try to just go with the flow because that method seems to work best for me.

4. Where do you get your ideas for your books?
JMJ: Many people have asked me this question, Angela. I have always been a voracious reader along with being very creative with sewing, stitching, crafts, and in my thinking. Basically, I have an active imagination that never slows down.

Several of the elements of 'A Holiday Miracle in Apple Blossom' come from my life's experiences. The main character, Amber Kellen, is a first grade teacher working in a new town. I taught first grade for eighteen years, and my first job was in a new town. Second, the tragedy that kicks off the story is something I witnessed when I was about eight years old. It was an event I will never forget, so I used it as the catalyst to begin this story. {Read the book to find out the event to which I'm referring.}

5. When you are not writing what do you like to do?

JMJ: I love anything to do with sewing, quilting, and hand-embroidery. This includes sewing for my family and friends, making quilts for my favorite charities, and participating in a church quilting group which makes comfort quilts for members and friends in need of a boost during a difficult time. I also enjoy visiting gardens, parks, historic homes, history and art museums, photography, cooking, and reading. I love to walk, listen to music, and keep in touch with friends and family.

6. What one piece of advice would you like to give to aspiring writers?

JMJ: I try to tell aspiring authors who contact me that the most important lesson I have learned on my author's journey is to be true to yourself, your beliefs, your morals and ethics in your writing. Don't write something you would not be proud to share with your closest friend or someone you've never met. Integrity in one's writings is paramount in my opinion.

7. Who is your favorite author or book that you would like to recommend to your readers?
JMJ: I recently read an excellent middle grade historical novel I consider to be one of my all-time favorite books! The book is 'Wolf Hollow' by Author Lauren Wolk. It's set in Pennsylvania during World War II. The book is simply awesome. It's so well-written and heartwarming and heart-wrenching at the same time.

I have so many favorite authors and books that I would highly recommend. I invite your readers to visit my Goodread's page at: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7102562.June_McCrary_Jacobs to read some of my reviews and learn more about my favorite authors and their books.

8. If you could meet any famous person dead or alive who would it be and why?

JMJ: I have always admired Author Laura Ingalls Wilder for her independent spirit and perseverance in the face of adversity and tragedy. I love history, and her 'Little House' books were among my favorites as a child. I think she would be an interesting person to sit with and discuss life as she sees it. Can you imagine showing someone like Laura Ingalls Wilder who was born just after the Civil War a cell phone, laptop computer or computerized sewing machine? What would she think of our high-tech, digital society? It boggles my mind how different her childhood and life were than those of us born in the twentieth or twenty-first centuries.

9. If you could visit anywhere in the world where would you like to visit?

JMJ: I have always dreamed of visiting Australia. The unusual wildlife and diverse landscapes there fascinate me. There are several authors, quilters and sewing designers from down under whose work I greatly admire.

10. Five interesting facts about yourself:
JMJ: Okay, here goes:

I have had over one hundred of my original sewing, quilting, and craft designs published in books, magazines (US and UK) and on sewing industry blogs over the past decade. I've had over a dozen columns and articles published in sewing and crafting magazines (US and UK).

I love rock music in the vein of The Who, Led Zepplin, Bruce Springsteen, Elton John, The Doobie Brothers, The Rolling Stones, etc. I went to dozens of concerts when I was in high school and college and was fortunate enough to see many great acts. I also like classical music, the blues, classic Broadway musicals and jazz.

When I was a child I rode on a Goodyear blimp in Southern California. I remember vividly flying over a beach filled with people. I think it was in Long Beach. When they heard or saw the blimp approaching, they all turned and waved at us. How cool is that!

I lived in three states before I was six and a half; I've lived in California since then.

I love visiting historic homes, especially when they are decorated for Christmas. I had the pleasure of touring Hearst Castle at holiday time—it was elegant and stunning and unforgettable. I've also visited many historic homes in the Gold Country, Central Valley, and Bay Area of California along with some trips to homes on the North Coast of California and Nevada.

Thank you so much for hosting me on your blog, Angela. This was a treat for me to answer your well-crafted questions. I wish you and all of your readers a very blessed holiday season and a wonderful 2018!
Giveaway

November 26, 2017

Lois to the Rescue by Carol Hegberg - Review

I received this book free from the author. All opinions are my own

Book details
Grade Level: 2 - 3
Paperback: 54 pages
Publisher: Tate Publishing (December 22, 2015)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1681871661
ISBN-13: 978-1681871660

Book description
Ten-year-old Lois lives next to Miss Goldie, an eighty-year-old woman who doesn't act her age. Miss Goldie calls Lois her reporter because Lois keeps her up-to-date on the neighborhood news. Miss Goldie's cat, Morris, is missing. Lois takes on the challenge of finding Morris. She tries the usual interviewing neighbors, but that doesn't find Morris. When she ventures into Mrs. Ed's forbidden garden, she finds a clue that leads her to why Morris has disappeared. 

Meet the author - Carol Hegberg
Carol Hegberg is a novelist and author of several anthologies, magazine articles, children's plays and skits and poetry. She resides in DeKalb, Illinois. For more information, you may visit her website at carolhegberg.tateauthor.com

My thoughts
This was a cute little chapter book for your young reader. I liked Lois's relationship with Miss Goldie. It was nice of her to find out what happened to Morris when he came missing. The chapters are short and will hold your child's attention. This is a good book to keep them entertained on a car trip. The book's illustrations are done so your child can use this book as a coloring book. They can make the scenes their own by coloring them the way they want to. A cute book. 

November 24, 2017

Black Arts, Tarts & Gypsy Carts by Erin Johnson - Review and Giveaway

 
I received this book free from the publisher. All opinions are my own

Book details
Cozy Mystery 2nd in Series 
Self Published (October 29, 2017) 
Paperback: 300 pages 
ISBN-13: 978-1976537110 
E-Book - ASIN: B076GW21DK

Book description
With the Summer Sea Carnival visiting the enchanted island of Bijou Mer, Imogen jumps at the chance to help run the royal bakery booth. It’ll get her out of the palace and allow her to continue avoiding her feelings for a certain engaged prince. Imogen’s plans to lay low are shattered when the world-famous necromancer, Madame Zerna, is found dead, sawed in half on the dark magician’s table and Imogen’s friend Rhonda is caught red-handed. With incriminating evidence piling up against Rhonda, Zerna’s rival, Imogen promises to help clear her name by finding the real murderer. But between running the booth, encouraging Maple as she struggles to lead as head baker, and taking spell lessons from the friendly strong man, Imogen’s got her hands full. And it’s no easier getting information from the evasive dark magician or Madame Zerna’s secretive assistant. Even Rhonda’s hiding something. With the Night of the Dead fast approaching, and Rhonda headed for a maximum security witch prison, Imogen races to unearth the real killer in time to save her friend. But in a mysterious carnival where nothing’s as it seems, will Imogen have the magical powers to keep from being on the chopping block herself?

Meet the Author - Erin Johnson 
A native of Tempe, Arizona, Erin spends her time crafting mysterious, magical, romance-filled stories that’ll hopefully make you laugh. In between, she’s traveling, napping with her dogs, eating with her friends and family, and teaching Pilates (to allow her to eat more). Website: www.erinjohnsonwrites.com. Facebook: www.facebook.com/EJohnsonWrites. Twitter: @EJohnsonWrites 

Purchase Link - Amazon 

My thoughts
This is the first book that I have read by this author and in this series. I did not feel lost and was able to read it as a stand alone book. I thought the book was enjoyable and the cast of characters were unique and fun to get to know. The royal bakers were a favorite part of the story for me. Then the author added a bit of romance to this mystery which was a little bonus. She likes to keep you guessing as you read. Just when you think you have everything figured out she gives you a little twist. I enjoyed her writing style as well. The story just flowed off the pages. Imogene was a fun character to get to know. She was determined to prove her friend was not the killer even if it meant solving the crime herself. A great cast of characters a fun setting and a good mystery. All the makings of a good book. 

Giveaway


TOUR PARTICIPANTS 
November 19 – Books,Dreams,Life - REVIEW, INTERVIEW 
November 19 – Varietats – REVIEW 
November 19 – Deal Sharing Aunt – REVIEW 
November 20 – Back Porchervations – REVIEW 
November 20 – Babs Book Bistro – SPOTLIGHT 
November 20 – A Chick Who Reads – REVIEW 
November 21 – Books a Plenty Book Reviews – REVIEW 
November 21 – Book Babble – REVIEW 
November 21 – Teresa Trent Author Blog – SPOTLIGHT 
November 22 – Bookworm Cafe – REVIEW 
November 22 – Celticladys Reviews – SPOTLIGHT 
November 22 – Melissa's Eclectic Bookshelf – SPOTLIGHT 
November 23 – THANKSGIVING 
November 24 – A Holland Reads – REVIEW 
November 24 – Brooke Blogs - REVIEW, CHARACTER INTERVIEW 
November 24 – Paranormal and Romantic Suspense Reviews – SPOTLIGHT 
November 25 – Melina's Book Blog – REVIEW 
November 25 – Valerie's Musings – REVIEW 
November 25 – Sapphyria's Books – REVIEW 
November 26 – StoreyBook Reviews – REVIEW 
November 26 – The Montana Bookaholic - REVIEW     

November 23, 2017

Beyond Love by D.D. Marx - Review and Giveaway

I received this book free from the publisher. All opinions are my own

Book Details:
Book Title: Beyond Love (Book #2)
Author: D.D. Marx
Category: Adult Fiction; 184 pages
Genre: Chick-Lit
Publisher: Beyond Dreams Publishing
Release date: November 2017
Tour dates: Oct 16 to Dec 22, 2017
Content Rating: PG 13 (Light sex scenes/not explicit; language (couple f bombs)

Book Description: 
After trusting in her beloved friend Dan’s guidance from the beyond, Olivia is finally on the path to realizing her destiny. Staring at a blank canvas after ditching her raucous corporate life and meeting the love of her life, Finn McDaniels, a hot, widowed celebrity chef, she is ready to begin anew.

Arriving back in Chicago, she receives more frightening news further delaying her future journey with Finn. Unable to control the outcome, she begins questioning her trust and faith in Dan once again. She distracts herself the only way she knows how, by diving head first into a new project. What seemed like a time-killer may actually be the thing that saves her and catapults her into a world she never dreamed of.

When Olivia and Finn finally reunite, a looming secret is uncovered threatening to ruin the relationship she has waited for her entire life. Olivia is forced to decide whether to tell Finn or let it live in the past forever. Is their relationship strong enough to weather the storm or will it cause them to part ways for good?

To read more reviews, please visit D.D. Marx's page on iRead Book Tours.

Buy Beyond Love:
Amazon ~ Barnes & Noble
Add to Goodreads


Meet the Author - D.D. Marx
D.D. Marx is a contemporary romantic fiction writer and blogger, as well as a lover of all things social. She is a graduate of the University of Dayton, as well as the Second City program in Chicago, where she currently resides. A proud aunt and self-described hopeless romantic, Marx has always had a knack for humorous and engaging storytelling. Her pen name is a dedication to her beloved friend Dan, who continues to guide and inspire her in her daily life.

Connect with the Author: Website ~ Facebook ~ Twitter ~ Pinterest




My thoughts
This is a fun series that leaves you wanting more as you finish each book. Olivia is always getting herself into some sort of predicament that you just have to shake your head at her. She is like the friend that is always a mess but you just seem to love anyway. Olivia is still listening to her deceased friend Dan for advise which sometimes is not always the best. I really liked that we got to have more of Finn in this book. We also got to watch their relationship grow even more which I enjoyed. There are a few secrets that I can't giveaway that may or may not effect the relationship. You must read to find out. I am looking forward to the third book in this series. 


Enter the Giveaway!
Ends Dec 28









Watch the trailer:


November 22, 2017

Christmas Secrets in Snowflake Cove by Emily Harvale - Review

I received this book free from the publisher. All opinions are my own

Book details
Series: Michaelmas Bay #1
Paperback: 256 pages
Publisher: Crescent Gate Publishing (October 20, 2017)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1909917273
ISBN-13: 978-1909917279

Book description
Christmas Secrets in Snowflake Cove

Christmas is a time for family and friends, miracles and magic, falling snow and roaring fires, fun, laughter and festive feasts. In Snowflake Cove, it’s also a time for secrets to be revealed…

Evie Starr is hoping for more than a sprinkling of magic this Christmas. The family-run Snowflake Inn is virtually empty and the Starr’s financial future isn’t looking bright. But Evie’s gran, Jessie has a secret that might help.

Enigmatic, Zachary Thorn is every woman’s dream. He’s also ex-SAS, so his secrets are classified. The Christmas Special of his feel-good, TV show is set in Michaelmas Bay – until a phone call means he’s spending Christmas in nearby Snowflake Cove.

Evie’s best friend, Juniper thinks boyfriend Darren has a secret. Evie knows he does. And Evie’s niece, Raven is hiding feelings for Juniper’s brother – who has a secret crush of his own.

But the biggest secret in Snowflake Cove is the identity of Raven’s dad.

With snow falling thick and fast and secrets being revealed one after another, will everyone be snuggling up by the fire on Christmas Eve, or are some secrets best kept hidden…?

Purchase on Amazon UK - https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B076G4DVZH

Meet the author - Emily Harvale
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

My thoughts
This was a nice book to read at the beginning of the season. I loved the names in the book as they connected well with the title and theme. I don't know if I would have handled the snooty woman as well as Evie did but she knew she had to as she is trying to get the word out about her business. This was a I can't put down type of book as I really wanted to figure out the secrets that were hidden throughout the story line. The author also added in a little humor to the story. She did a good job with her descriptions and developing the many characters. I want to go to Michaelmas Bay and stay in Evie's resort. I look forward to more books in this series. 




November 21, 2017

Killer Holiday by Amy Korman - Spotlight and Giveaway


Book details
Genre: Mystery
Published by: Witness Impulse
Publication Date: October 24th 2017 by Witness Impulse
Number of Pages: 320
ISBN: 0062431366 (ISBN13: 9780062431363)
Series: A Killer WASPs Mystery, #4

Book description
Kristin Clark and her offbeat crew of Bryn Mawr socialites are ready for a fun and festive winter holiday—one that involves sipping martinis by a crackling yule log, hot guys beneath the mistletoe, and Gucci under the Christmas tree. But this year, Old Saint Nick has something more dangerous in store. A stranger dressed in a Santa suit has Kristin’s friends on his naughty list. First, Sophie’s favorite handbag is blasted by a bullet. Then, Father Christmas shatters her brother Chip’s car window with a golf club and leaves a threatening note demanding fifty grand. Both are convinced it has to be a mistake. But when Chip goes missing, the stakes become deadly. Eula Morris is also back in town for the holidays, more bossy and boastful than ever after winning a mega-jackpot in the lottery. She’s returned from a luxury cruise around the world with a handsome new boyfriend (who looks oddly familiar…) and a Samsonite suitcase filled with gold bars. When the suitcase is snatched, Eula implores Kristin and the team to track it down. Where is Chip? Why is a vengeful Santa targeting the gang? Who stole Eula’s suitcase? And how are these events linked? The WASPs and Kristen’s basset hound Waffles are on the case—before this white Christmas turns even darker…

Meet the author - Amy Korman
Amy Korman is a former senior editor and staff writer for Philadelphia Magazine, and author of Frommer’s Guide to Philadelphia. She has written for Town & Country, House Beautiful, Men’s Health, and Cosmopolitan. Killer WASPS is her first novel.
Catch Up With Ms. Korman On: amykorman.com đź”—, Goodreads đź”—, Twitter đź”—, & Facebook đź”—!

Giveaway
This is a rafflecopter giveaway hosted by Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours for Amy Korman and Witness Impulse. There will be 3 winners of one (1) eBook copy of KILLER PUNCH by Amy Korman. The giveaway begins on October 23 and runs through December 3, 2017.

November 20, 2017

Charley Poon's Pomes by Robin Hawdon - Review

I received this book free from the publisher. All opinions are my own

Book details
Paperback: 70 pages
Publisher: Clink Street Publishing (November 7, 2017)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1912262436
ISBN-13: 978-1912262434

Book description
Unable to find good funny poems to read aloud to his grandchildren - other than the seventy year old A.A. Milne classics - British playwright Robin Hawdon sat down to write some himself. The result is this collection of thirty hilarious and touching poems, beautifully illustrated by Wendy Hoile, which recount the exploits of young Charley Poon - every parent’s nightmare - and his eccentric menagerie of nursery animals. The poems cover everything from youthful games and exploits, to the problems of growing up, to the ups and downs of school and family life, and the joys of country and seaside holidays. Parents and grandparents will be delighted to have something new and entertaining with which to occupy those tricky lights-out bedtime moments.


Meet the author - Robin Hawdon
Dividing his time between Bath, Australia and the South of France, actor, playwright and grandfather Robin Hawdon has enjoyed a successful forty year career in the entertainment industry. During the early years he was a regular face on British TV — appearing in many series and co-starring with Michael Crawford in ITV’s ‘Chalk and Cheese’ and starring in a number of films. He has trod the boards as Hamlet, Henry V and Henry Higgins in Pygmalion and in leading roles in London’s West End. Later his love of writing dominated his career and he is now recognised as one of the UK’s most prolific comedy playwrights —with productions including The Mating Game which has played in over thirty countries and Don’t Dress For Dinner which ran in the West End for six years before playing on Broadway and around the English speaking world. Many of his plays are published by Samuel French and Josef Weinberger. Robin has also directed a number of stage productions, and in the 1980’s founded the Bath Fringe festival, and subsequently became Director of the Theatre Royal Bath, England’s premier touring theatre. He has written several novels including A Rustle in the Grass, published by Hutchinsons in 1984 and republished recently by Thistle. A second novel, The Journey was published in 2002 by Hawthorns and a third, Survival of the Fittest, by SBPR in 2013. His first foray into children’s literature,


My thoughts
This was a fun colorful book to read.  The author did a good job with getting the writing style correct. By this I mean you felt like you were reading poems written by a little boy. They were fun and silly. I also like the font they used because it looked like a little boy's crayon handwriting. The drawings that went along with the poems were cute as well. One of my favorite poems was Joe the Jrafe - yes that is spelled correctly remember a little boy was writing these. Joe was a giraffe with a loud laugh that was so loud he scared people and he laughed at everything. So Charley's mom taught Joe how to laugh more quietly so he would not scare people. His spelling poem was cute as well. In it he wants to know why things sound the same but are spelled different. I loved all the little misspellings in the book it just made it more like you were reading a book your young boy wrote. I can't wait to pass this on to my nephew. I think he will find it funny. 


November 19, 2017

Scandikitchen The Essence of Hygge by Bronte Aurell - Review


Book details
Paperback: 160 pages
Publisher: Ryland Peters & Small; Reprint edition (February 14, 2017)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1849758743
ISBN-13: 978-1849758741

Book description
Discover the essence of hygge as revealed by BrontĂ« Aurell, Danish owner of London’s ScandiKitchen in this honest and thoughtful guide, which also features some of her favorite recipes from her books, The Scandi Kitchen and Fika & Hygge, to help you enjoy a "hyggelig" time.

Hygge is in the zeitgeist, but what is it, how do we bring hygge in our lives and why are we so captivated with this Danish word? According to BrontĂ« it is really not complicated and doesn’t involve spending vast amounts of money on candles or blankets… in its purest form it is simply about appreciating life.

Explained in 12 entertaining chapters interspersed with recipes, you will learn first about the origins of the word hygge (old Norse) and then how to embrace it with essays on: Hygge and the Basics, Hygge and Happiness, Hygge and Sharing, Hygge and Baking, Hygge and Darkness, Hygge and Light, Hygge and Time, Hygge and Stress, Hygge and Soul, Hygge and Nature, Hygge and Stuff, and Hygge and Your Home.

Hygge is a completely psychological and emotional state of being. Whether it’s going for a long walk or baking and sharing a cake with friends, when you carve a pocket of time in your day, hygge can often be found. Remembering to appreciate and experience the moment will help you find your very own hygge.

Meet the author - Bronte Aurell
I'm Bronte Aurell and I co-own and run ScandiKitchen Cafe in London, England.

Our cafe was set up in 2007 - because we (my partner Jonas and I) missed food from our homes in Scandinavia. We wanted to create a place where ex-pats could find the foods they missed from home and where everybody else felt welcome to pop by and enjoy some nice open sandwiches, cakes and coffee.

We love our little cafe, webshop and warehouse and we're super proud to be publishing our first book, ScandiKitchen, in September 2015. We wanted to write a book with really simple Scandinavian dishes - the way we cook them at home. No fancy stuff - just honest food - good food, with love, from Scandinavia.

In 2016, we published Fika & Hygge - a collection of all our favourite Scandinavian bakes and treats. Perfect for baking your way through a dark, cold winter.

Do pop by and say 'hej' if you are ever in London.

www.scandikitchen.co.uk

My thoughts
This was a very quick read for me. I picked it up at the library at 4:00 and by 9:00 I was done reading it. I enjoyed the way the author talked about Hygge and her experiences with it. She also compares Danish, Norwegian, and the Swedish and the way they all practice Hygge. There were many great recipes included in this book - a few in which I plan on making for myself. At the beginning of each recipe she tells a story behind the recipe. I like this added personal touch. There are also quotes at the beginning of the chapters which I enjoyed. One of my favorites is a Julia Child quote - A party without a cake is just a meeting. This is a book that you should add to your collection. 

Finnigan the Circus Cat by Mary T. Wagner

I received this book free from the publisher. All opinions are my own

Book details
Series: Finnigan the Circus Cat #1
Paperback: 160 pages
Publisher: Waterhorse Press LLC; First edition (June 2, 2016)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0692679626
ISBN-13: 978-0692679623

Book description
Finnigan is a foundling kitten who finds a happy home in a small town circus museum, befriended by a pair of "circus mice." Through their adventures, they learn that the family you make can be just as important as the one you came from.

Inspired by a real life “rescue kitten” adopted by the author’s son and his wife and ALSO named Finnigan, this new chapter book series begins as Max and Leroy, two “circus mice” cousins who live at the old, shuttered Farnsworth Circus Museum find their comfortable world up-ended when a new generation of Farnsworths move in.

And when eight-year-old Lucy Farnsworth brings home a tiny foundling kitten and hides him in the barn because her dad is allergic to cats, Max and Leroy need to think fast if they’re going to be able to stay.

With the help of Boomer—the oddly silent family dog—Max and Leroy take the new kitten under their wing and show him the ins and outs of living at the museum, and flying “under the radar.” Along the way, they all come to realize that the family that you make can be just as important as the one you came from. And when Leroy finds himself in deadly peril as the villainous neighborhood cats Hector and Godfrey some a’hunting, it is Finnigan the Circus Cat who saves the day!

Meet the author - Mary T. Wagner
Award-winning Wisconsin author and photographer Mary T. Wagner has been described as "the Midwest's answer to Carrie Bradshaw" and favorably compared to humorist Erma Bombeck...but "in sexier shoes." A native of Chicago, Wagner is a former newspaper and magazine journalist who changed careers at forty by going to law school and becoming a criminal prosecutor. A mother of four, she now lives in in "coastal Wisconsin," where she draws much inspiration for writing from frequent trips to the shore of Lake Michigan, watching the waves ebb and flow and make shifting mosaics of sunlight on the sandy lake floor.

Despite the career shift to law, Wagner never COULD step away from the keyboard entirely, and since returning to writing has published several essay collections which have earned national praise, including RUNNING WITH STILETTOS and WHEN THE SHOE FITS. She counts both wearing spike heels and learning to use a cordless drill and chainsaw among her "late blooming" discoveries, and would be hard pressed to surrender either her favorite stilettos or her power tools.

The spark for her FINNIGAN THE CIRCUS CAT series, aimed at young readers age 7-10, came about because of the intersection of two highly entertaining family matters—one of Wagner’s daughters is a contemporary circus aerialist, and a few years ago her younger son and his wife brought home a tiny “rescue kitten” they named Finnigan. As the wee Finnigan grew, his stripes, moustache, and attitude reminded her of a circus performer full of dash and bravado, and so the match was lit.

The series is narrated by one of Finnigan’s “circus mice” pals, Maxmillian, whom Wagner freely admits to as her wiseacre alter ego. “Seriously,” Wagner said, “that mouse is really the ten-year-old version of me before I had to grow up and sound responsible. When I sit down to write about Finnigan and his friends, I just open the door in my head that he usually hides in, and the story comes out. Whatever Maximillian says is going to happen, I am simply along for the ride!”

My thoughts
Let's start off by saying I loved the cover of this book and the title. Then I read the description and had to have it. What could make a better story then a rescue kitten that is being taught the ropes by two mice. When you read this book you are in for a real treat. Then there is the added touch of the sketches in the book. They are a cute addition. Max and Leroy brought humor to the story as well as a compassion to show that just because you come from different places you can still belong together. They did a good job of making Finnigan a part of their family. I also liked the idea that the story centered around a rescue kitten as we are all about rescuing animals in our house. This is a fun book to read along with you child. I look forward to more adventures of this rag tag team of animals.