[Review] Interference by Sophia Henry

Interference by Sophia Henry
Series: Pilot's Hockey, #3
Publisher: Flirt
Publishing Date: June 7, 2016
Format: ARC, ebook
216 Pages
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N

Synopsis 

Linden Meadows doesn’t back down from anyone, especially if her family’s involved. So when her little brother’s new hockey coach benches him in the middle of a game, Linden lets him have it. She also notices that the coach is way hotter than she expects, but Linden won’t let herself get burned by another athlete. Been there, done that—and had a kid at seventeen to show for it.

When Jason Taylor isn’t taking abuse from hockey moms, he’s patrolling the streets as a member of the Bridgeland PD. After Jason pulls Linden over for speeding, he begins to see that there’s more to her than a big mouth . . . or a lead foot. Their chemistry leads to good company, intense conversation, and an intimacy that pushes beyond the boundaries of friendship. And yet Linden’s decision to keep her now three-year-old son, Holden, is a painful reminder to Jason that his own mother gave him up for adoption.

Linden’s sure she’s found the man to round out their family. But when Holden’s deadbeat dad forces his way back into the picture, Jason starts to back off. He needs time—to heal, to grow, and to love with all his heart. 

My Review

I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. 

This is the third book in the Pilot's Hockey series by Sophia Henry. I've read the other two and enjoyed those, so I really wanted to read this one. I'm also a big hockey fan and love stories that incorporate this sport into the story. This was a cute, short book by Henry that I enjoyed reading. It wasn't my favorite book, and the others in the series are better, but I still liked this one. I wish hockey had more of a role in this one and I feel like it's not really part of the Pilot's series since they're barely mentioned in here. I also wish the characters were developed a little more. We learned some interesting things about them, but they didn't capture me like some of her other characters have.

Despite all of this, I still thought this was a cute read and I'm glad I read it. I love romance stories and sometimes a quick read is exactly what I'm looking for. I do think people should read the others in this series first because they were better, but this is still a good read. 

[Review] Just a Girl by Ellie Cahill

Just a Girl by Ellie Cahill

Publisher: Loveswept

Publishing Date: June 21, 2016

Format: ebook, ARC

224 Pages

Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N 

Synopsis 

After getting kicked out of her own band—by her own boyfriend—Presley Mason finds herself back in Wisconsin, helping her parents run their renowned music store. Instead of belting out powerhouse vocals to sold-out crowds in L.A., she’s stocking shelves and inspecting rental violins. But the shop isn’t all bad: When she’s vacuuming up late one night, she bumps into the guitar teacher with the smoldering amber eyes and the killer tattoo. And that’s when things take an interesting turn.

Presley soon finds that Paul Kellerman is as good in bed as he is on guitar. So why isn’t he stoked to share his band, Jukebox Bleu, with her? Turns out Paul has crippling stage fright, which he’s been self-medicating without much success. But when Jukebox Bleu’s lead singer gets called for military service, the other members beg Presley to front them. Even though she swore never to mix men with music again, the temptation to perform is almost as intense as her chemistry with Paul. Now Presley must decide what’s more important: a second chance at love . . . or rock stardom.

My Review

I received a free copy of this ebook from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Cute, cute book! I requested this one from Netgalley because I previously read Call Me, Maybe by Cahill (review here) and I really enjoyed it. Plus I've heard great things about When Joss Met Matt, so I really wanted to read this! Plus, this book takes place in a city only about an hour from where I live in Wisconsin! Not too many books are set in Wisconsin, so this was really fun for me. 

I honestly haven't read too many books about singers or rock bands, so this was a little new for me. But still really fun. I was actually jealous with how well these characters can play musical instruments. I'm always envious of people who can play because I can't at all. Presley is a talented musician whose been kicked out of her band and dumped by her boyfriend. She goes back to working at her parents music store and meets one of the instructors, Paul. They develop a really steamy attraction and Presley learns he's in a band. Throughout the story, they really complement each other well and support each other. It's a really cute new adult novel and I'm definitely a fan of Cahill's writing. She creates really fun, cute stories that I love to read. I can't wait to read more of what she has written and will write in the future. 

[Mini Review] Welcome Home, Cowboy by Annie Rains

Welcome Home, Cowboy by Annie Rains
Series: Hero's Welcome, #2
Publisher: Loveswept
Publishing date: April 26, 2016
Format: ebook, ARC
261 Pages
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N

Synopsis 

With its thriving military base, Seaside, North Carolina, is teeming with heroes of all stripes. But, as the Hero's Welcome series from Annie Rains continues, it takes a cowboy to rescue the town's newest resident from heartache.

After a bad breakup leaves Julie Chandler completely devastated, she comes to Seaside seeking a fresh start. A talented, compassionate yoga teacher, she has developed a program to help alleviate the effects of PTSD, but getting a bunch of bullheaded Marines into downward facing dog might be impossible. So Julie's shocked when one of her first students dives in headfirst—and almost tempts her to take down her walls with his easy smile and electrifying touch.

Ever since Texas cowboy turned Marine pilot Lawson Phillips lost a crew member in a helicopter accident, he hasn't been able to fly. When a psychologist orders him to attend, of all things, a yoga class, Lawson's outraged—until he finds out Julie is the instructor. She's beautiful, graceful, and completely guarded when it comes to his advances, but he's determined to find out what makes her tick. Because underneath Julie's hard shell is a woman Lawson knows he could fall for—and he's not ready for the ride to end.

My Review

I received a free copy of this ebook from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. 

This was a fun, cute book to read and was exactly what I was looking for when I picked it up. If you follow my blog at all, you know that I LOVE romances. They always pull at my heartstrings and make me feel so many emotions. I love the ups and downs, being able to connect with characters, and connecting with their love story as well. 

While this is the second book in the series, I don't think you need to read the first to love the second. I haven't read the first one in the series and I never felt like I was missing something or couldn't connect with the characters. Because while it's part of a series, it's also a great standalone book. Julie and Lawson were really fun characters to get to know. They've both been through a lot of heartache, but have come out as stronger people. I thought the yoga aspect of this story was really fun and unique. I've tried yoga a few times and I really enjoy it, but I haven't stuck with it enough to get the full effects of it. However, I do agree that it can be a great stress reliever and help people in so many different ways. I also really loved the supporting characters in this book and thought they added a lot to the storyline. Overall, this was a good book and I can't wait to read what else Rains has. I also am tempted to go back and read the first in this series that I missed. 

[Mini Review] The Natural History of Us by Rachel Harris

The Natural History of Us by Rachel Harris
Series: The Fine of Art of Pretending, #2
Publisher: Spencer Hill Contemporary
Publishing Date: April 5, 2016
Format: ebook, ARC
255 Pages
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N

Synopsis 

One class assignment. One second chance at love. The school player is all in. Now he needs to win back the sweet commitment girl who's forever owned his heart. 

Justin Carter has a secret. He's not the total player Fairfield Academy believes him to be. Not really. In fact, he used to be a one-woman guy...and his feelings for her never went away. Too bad he broke her heart three years ago and made sure to ruin any chance she'd ever forgive him. 

Peyton Williams is a liar. She pretends to be whole, counting down the days until graduation and helping her parents at the family ranch. But the truth is, she's done everything she can to get over Justin, and salvation is just around the corner. With graduation one short month away, she'll soon break free from the painful memories and start her life fresh. Of course, she has to get through working with him on one last assignment first. 

For Justin, nothing ever felt as right as being with Peyton, and now that fate's given him a shot at redemption, he's determined to make the most of it. And for Peyton...well, Justin Carter has always been her kryptonite.

My Mini Review

I received a free copy of this ebook from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. 

I really liked this book. I thought it was a cute story and a second chance at love for these two. Justin and Peyton have a bit of a history that no one really knows anything about. But in their senior year of high school, they're paired together for a project. No better way to get these two talking again! I really loved when this happened and it forced both of them to figure out what they wanted and how to resolve their pasts. It was fun to watch these two get to know each other again. I have to say, this won't be the last Rachel Harris book I read! I think she's a great storyteller and I can't wait to find out what else she has. I also really want to go back and read the first book in this series. 

[Review] Call Me, Maybe by Ellie Cahill

Call Me, Maybe by Ellie Cahill
Publisher: Loveswept
Publishing Date: Feb. 9, 2016
217 Pages
Format: ebook, ARC
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N
Goodreads rating: 5 stars

Synopsis 

Clementine Daly knows she’s the black sheep. Her wealthy, powerful family has watched her very closely since she almostgot caught in an embarrassing scandal a few years ago. So when Clementine’s sent on a mission to live up to the Daly name, politely declining isn’t even an option. Of course, the last thing Clementine does before departure is grab a stranger’s phone by mistake—leaving the hunky journalist with her phone. Soon his sexy voice is on the line, but he doesn’t know her real name, or her famous pedigree—which is just the way Clementine likes it.

Despite all the hassles, Justin Mueller is intrigued to realize that the beautiful brown-eyed girl he met at the airport is suddenly at his fingertips. They agree to exchange phones when they’re both back in town, but after a week of flirty texts and wonderfully intimate conversations, Justin doesn’t want to let her go that easy. The only problem? It turns out that Clemetine has been lying to him about, well, everything. Except for the one thing two people can’t fake, the only thing that matters: The heat between them is for real.

My Review

I received a free copy of this ebook in exchange for an honest review. 

O.M.G. I loved this book! I cruised through it in just a few hours and didn't want to put it down - but it was after midnight last night and I couldn't stay awake any longer! Seriously, this was such a fun, romantic book. I wasn't sure if the meeting over the phone and falling in love that way would work, but it really did. Clementine and Justin are really cute together. They meet after they accidentally switch phones before flying to other states and soon they're talking each day. You can feel the emotion and the new romance budding while reading this book. It reminds me a little of when my husband and I first met. New romances are so much fun and I remember getting really giddy each time he would text or call me (we were doing a long distance relationship so I didn't get to see him much). To be honest, I still get giddy when he texts me (: I just loved everything about this story. It was cute, charming, and incredibly romantic. Plus, there were some steamy sex scenes! Even after the couple comes to a bump in the road, the story was still really cute and I couldn't wait for them to work it out. 

Both characters are easy to relate to. Clementine, though incredibly wealthy, has no idea what she wants to do with her life. She's gone to college, has hundreds of opportunities because of her well-known family, but still has no idea what she wants. I actually really love this about her - I have a few degrees, including my law degree, and I still feel like I don't know what I want with my life. Meanwhile, Justin knows exactly what he wants in life - to be a journalist, but he doesn't have the family business to help him. He works hard for what he wants and goes after it. Put both of them together and these two people are perfect for each other; they complement each other very well. 

Highly, highly recommend this book! I can't wait to read what else Cahill has written!

Buy Links:  Amazon | B & N |Google Play|  iTunes | Kobo

About the Author

Ellie Cahill is a freelance writer and also writes books for young adults under the name Liz Czukas. She lives outside Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with her husband, son, and the world’s loudest cat.

Author Links: Website | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads

Giveaway 

($25.00 Amazon eGift Card)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Spotlight * Debt by Rachel Dunning

DEBT

By Rachel Dunning

Expected Release Date:

March 30, 2016

Synopsis 

The Debt Collector

I pay my debts, and I expect others to. 

I was raised in the slums of London, I knew nothing of privilege. My father was murdered when I was seventeen. Morty figured my father's passing meant I would automatically take on dad's debts. I refused.

And I paid for that refusal.

So did my sister.

So now I fight. All I know how to do is fight. The best cash is in the states, so that's where I am now. A big fish called Vito came along offering me a "favor" when I arrived.

Another debt.

I paid for that one too.

I knew Kyla Hensley would be trouble when I met her. But I wanted her. I could see through the falsehood of her wannabe-slutty clothes and her sexy legs. So I chased her.

Besides, trouble is my middle name.

Kyla Hensley

I was brought up in privilege, but I lacked everything else. My father is a business tycoon who buys and sells and doesn't care who gets rolled over in the process.

I never knew my mother, and all I have of her is a photo with a note scrawled on the back in French saying "I'm sorry." The only Female Figure I had growing up is my dad's wife who is a bleach blond with seven boob jobs. We never bonded.

I drink. I party. I meet guys.

But I wasn't always like that.

I've had a string of lovers in the last few years, the worst and most recent of which was Vince Somerset. My best friend Vera was dating a guy called Rory Cansoom who is the opposite of Vince in so many ways, and yet so the same.

She and I hit the road for the summer, getting away from the two college psychos and just trying to have some fun.

But there's a funny thing about trouble, the more you run from it, the more it finds you.

Which is when I met the Debt Collector.

It was only supposed to be sex. He made that clear. I made that clear.

That's all it was supposed to be.

I never expected to fall in love. I never expected to fall so deeply, madly, uncomfortably in love with a man who is wrong, so wrong for me.

And yet...so unbelievably right.

Content Warning

Not intended for readers under the age of seventeen.

Links:

Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B01A02LNLC

Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01A02LNLC

Amazon Canada: http://www.amazon.ca/dp/B01A02LNLC

Amazon Australia: http://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B01A02LNLC

iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/debt/id1071559413?mt=11
Nook / B&N: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/debt-rachel-dunning/1123196983?ean=2940152548570

Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/603988

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/28400056-debt

About the Author

Rachel Dunning hit the scene in August 2013 and is the author of the highly praised Naive Mistakes Series, Truthful Lies Trilogy, Johnny Series and the paranormal romance series, Mind Games.

A prolific writer, she sticks to stories where Alpha Males aren’t pricks and where women have guts.

She’s lived on two different continents, speaks three different languages, and met the love of her life on the internet. In other words, romance is in her blood.

Get Rachel’s Newsletter

Sign up for Rachel’s Newsletter and never miss a release or a special.
You can sign up here:
http://www.rdunning.com/p/non-spammy-news.html

Where Else to Find Rachel

Blog / Website: http://www.rdunning.com

Facebook: http://bit.ly/RachelDunning

Twitter: https://twitter.com/RachelDAuthor

Amazon: https://amazon.com/author/racheldunning

Barnes and Noble: http://bit.ly/RachelDunningBN

iTunes: http://bit.ly/RachelDunningiTunes

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/racheldunning

[Review] Embrace by S.E. Hall

Embrace by SE Hall
Series: Evolve, #2
Publishing Date: Sept. 26, 2013
297 Pages
Format: ebook
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N

Synopsis 

After the romantic gesture of the century, Evan Allen is now faced with no friends, ineligible to play ball...and too late to get the girl.

He's starting over alone and doesn't know quite how to proceed, until certain members of "The Crew" step in, taking him under their wing. 

It doesn't take the ladies long to notice him either.

Sometimes life doesn't go as you had planned. Sometimes, it goes better.

Embrace it.

Due to sexual content and scenes- MATURE audiences recommended. This is a NEW ADULT romance.

My Review 

After I finished reading Emerge, I immediately bought a copy of this book on my Kindle and jumped right in. I really liked Evan in Emerge and, thought I was happy with Laney and Dane getting together, I really wanted Evan to have a happy ending. The synopsis doesn't really tell you who his love interest is, but once you start reading, you find out that it's Whitley. Honestly, I wasn't a huge fan of her in Emerge, but she didn't have a big part it in. Plus, she was made to seem really clingy and whiney. But the more you read this book, the more you learn that she's a really sweet girl. She definitely grew up in a privileged family, but they didn't seem to dote on her very much and were more concerned about appearance.

Like in Emerge, I really loved the supporting characters in this book. Most of them are the same as those in Emerge, but we do meet a few new people and get to know some of the other characters better. I was a little surprised by how much of Laney and Dane's story continues on in this one. I thought it would be mostly about Evan and Whitley, but Laney and Dane's story really continues in this one. I like that, but at the same time, I wanted this to be just Evan and Whitley. Regardless, this was a really fun book and I cannot wait to read Sawyer's story! 

[Review] Emerge by S.E. Hall

Emerge by S.E. Hall
Series: Evolve, #1
Publishing Date: May 2013
353 Pages
Format: ebook
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N

Synopsis 

Laney Walker is a quick witted, athletic, southern tomboy who lets few get too close, using her sarcastic zingers to deflect and no idea how others view her.

Evan Allen's always been "friend zoned" yet protected and coveted Laney since they were children. But college puts a gap between them that neither were prepared for- old relationships are tested, new ones are formed and nothing will ever be the same.

Especially when in walks one Dane Kendrick, not at all the familiar, southern charmer of home, but an animal all his own.

A story of growing up, friendship, loyalty, first love, primal love...and life. Mature content.

My Review

Free books on Amazon are a hit or miss with me, but I like downloading them anyways to find new authors. Let me tell you, I am so glad that I downloaded this one when I had the chance! I was drawn in and hooked from the first page. Laney and Evan have been best friends for years, but senior year, everything changes and they become more. But it only lasts a short time because they each move away to college. They go through some ups and downs together, but they remain good friends. Then Dane comes into the picture and things change. There was definitely a love triangle going on in this story, but it didn't bother me at all. In fact, it probably made everything that much better. Both Dane and Evan want to be with Laney, and she has no idea what to do because she likes (loves) them both in different ways.

Dane is devoted to Laney and will do anything he can to keep her his, including taking her on vacations, showing her with gifts and being an all around good guy. Meanwhile, Evan has always been Laney's best friend and has put her on a pedestal. It's really fun to see these relationships grow. I had my heart set on one of the relationships working over the other and thankfully, I got what I wanted! 

This was such a fun book. I couldn't put it down and I couldn't wait to read the next in the series (if you don't want spoilers, don't read the synopsis of the next book). I really liked all the characters and they each brought their own something to the story. I loved this book so much that right when I finished it, I went onto Amazon and bought the next! 

[DNF Review] Ugly by Margaret McHeyzer

Ugly by Margaret McHeyzer

Publisher: Smashwords

Publishing date: Oct. 26, 2015

Format: ARC, ebook

Synopsis 

If I were dead, I wouldn't be able to see.
If I were dead, I wouldn't be able to feel.
If I were dead, he'd never raise his hand to me again.
If I were dead, his words wouldn't cut as deep as they do.
If I were dead, I'd be beautiful and I wouldn't be so...ugly.
I'm not dead...but I wish I was.

*This is a dark YA/NA stand-alone, full-length novel. Contains violence.

My Review

*Might contain some spoilers*

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. 

I couldn't finish this book. I made it about 50% of the way thcfrough, but had to stop. It wasn't that the book was bad; but I couldn't keep reading. Maybe that doesn't make sense, but I'm going to try to explain. This book is about domestic violence, first from Lily's father, and then from her husband. I don't mind reading emotional books or books about difficult topics, and honestly, I was looking for an emotion, deep book when I started reading this. The problem that I had with reading this is that it was starting to affect my mood. I found myself really down and easily annoyed. It's weird, but sometimes it happens when I read certain books; not just sad books, but for example, I read Still Alice by Lisa Genova and I thought I was constantly losing stuff and forgetting things while reading it. But anyways, I just couldn't keep feeling like that. I've learned a lot about domestic violence during my criminal justice school and law school; I even took classes specifically about it. So I know it's not as simple as walking away, moving in with a friend, etc. I just didn't want to keep reading about it when it was seriously affecting my mood. So I stopped. I wish I could have finished, but this wasn't for me. 

[Review] Power Play by Sophia Henry

Power Play by Sophia Henry
Series: Pilots Hockey, #2
Publisher: Loveswept
Publishing Date: Feb. 16, 2016
232 Pages
Format: ebook, ARC
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N

Synopsis 

In Sophia Henry's blistering follow-up to Delayed Penalty, hailed as “sexy, fun, and full of angst” by L. P. Dover, a good girl and a hockey hunk face off against expectations—and this match is guaranteed to see plenty of action.

Beneath her innocent facade, Gabriella Bertucci has her reasons to be standoffish with guys. Especially guys like Landon Taylor, a star defenseman on the minor-league Detroit Pilots and the object of a serious crush since he first walked into her family's market. But when Landon comes through for her in a moment of crisis, Gaby starts to wonder if there might be more to Landon than hard muscles and fast skates.

Landon isn't afraid of telling Gaby that he's got it for her bad. The problem is, she seems unwilling to believe it. And though Landon enjoys his reputation as a cool-headed athlete, he hates losing—both on the rink and off. It's his competitiveness that makes him so damn good at what he does . . . but it also makes him just a little bit complicated.

One minute Gaby's tempted to give in; the next, she's getting cold feet. How can she trust a guy who's destined for bigger and better things to stick around? Then again, when Landon pulls her close with those powerful arms, the only thing that matters is right now.

My Review

I received a free copy of this ebook in exchange for an honest review. 

I enjoyed the first book in this series, Delayed Penalty, so I was excited to get into this book. I really love hockey and really, really love romances, so this is a great combination! I would say this book definitely caught my interest right away and I really like Gaby and Landon. They've both been crushing on each other for years, but neither knows it until Landon makes the first move. It's fun to watch their relationship grow. I don't like Gaby's dad; he's a chauvinist and doesn't treat women the same. I get that he changes a little in the end, but I'm not a big fan. And Landon was a bit selfish, but he's still a fun character to get to know. This was another book that I cruised through and I'm interested in reading others in the series!

[Review] Best of Me by Elisabeth Barrett

The Best of Me by Elisabeth Barrett
Series: Return to Briarwood, #2
Publisher: Loveswept
Publishing Date: Jan. 5, 2016
Format: ebook, ARC
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N

Synopsis 

Jane Pringle never meant to fall for her boss. After landing a job as a pastry chef at the exclusive Briarwood Golf and Yacht Club in Eastbridge, Connecticut, she just wants to keep her son in a good school district and find some peace and quiet, far away from her manipulative ex-husband. But when Briarwood’s charismatic co-owner takes an interest in her, Jane’s best-laid plans go awry . . . in the sweetest way possible.

Rich and handsome, the grandson of one of the most powerful men in New York City, Preston North hasn’t lived quite the charmed life everyone believes. His family taught him everything he needs to know about betrayal—and Press wants no more of it. What he wants is Jane. The gorgeous single mom is selfless and kind, plus she’s got a backbone. To win her trust, Press just needs to shake off his playboy reputation.

They’ve each been burned in the past. But now Press and Jane will have to choose between letting their fears get the best of them . . . or breaking free and following their hearts.

My Review

I received a free copy of this ebook in exchange for an honest review. 

I read the first book in this series over my Christmas break from work and I fell in love with these characters, the community, and Barrett's writing style. I couldn't wait to read Jane and Preston's story in this book, so I dove right in! Let me tell you, it didn't disappoint! 

In Once and Again (review here) we met Jane and Preston, though briefly. We learned of struggles that Jane was going through, but not too much about Preston. In this book, we definitely find out more about Jane's struggles with her ex-husband and the lengths he will go to to make Jane's life difficult. Meanwhile, Preston appears completely in control of his life on the outside, but on the inside, he struggles with his father's death and his choices after. Both Jane and Preston are a little broken, but together, they complement each other perfectly. 

This book has very developed characters and I loved reading their story. Both Jane and Preston are easy to like and sympathize with, and they're strong in their own ways. Throughout the story, we see their struggles, but they help each other and grow to become and even stronger couple. You don't necessarily need to read the first book in this series before reading this one. The characters overlap, but the stories are stand-alones. 

Others in the Series

Once and Again by Elisabeth Barrett

*Book Tour* Heartsong by Sara Walter Ellwood

Heartsong

by Sara Walter Ellwood

Synopsis 

Gabriel McKenna is living the dream. A rising country music star he’s no stranger to fame, money, or beautiful women. Despite his bad boy image, he’s also got a heart of gold, and when his ten-year-old brother is orphaned, he wants to take him under his wing. But the judge on the case is less than impressed by Gabe’s reputation and awards custody to the grandfather Gabe knows firsthand is abusive.

Michaela Finn is no stranger to heartache. Years ago she was engaged to Gabe McKenna, but two days before their wedding he ran off to Nashville with a female talent scout. Now Gabe is back in her life with an insane plan. Marry him, so he can get custody of his younger brother. Michaela can’t bear to think of any child being hurt, but she’s just not sure her heart can carry a happy tune when Gabe is playing lead…

Link to Follow Tour: 

http://www.tastybooktours.com/2015/12/heartsong-singing-to-heart-2-by-sara.html 

Goodreads Link: 

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/27241928-heartsong

Goodreads Series Link: 

https://www.goodreads.com/series/151485-singing-to-the-heart 

Buy Links: 

Amazon | B & N | Google Play | iTunes | Kobo

Heartstrings, Book 1 is now available and Heartland, Book 3 is available for pre-order

My Review

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. 

I finished this book in 2 days! Really, it was less than 24 hours, but spanned over 2 days. I've never read anything by this author before and I really enjoyed her work. Heartsong is a great romantic read and second chance novels are some of my favorite. I love when two people who used to be in love can find their way back to each other, even if their lives have taken them down different paths. Micki and Gabe were high school sweethearts who went separate ways when Gabe moved to Nashville to pursue a music career. The two never stopped loving each other, but it took a while for them to realize that. A tragedy brings these two back into each others lives and after a few interesting agreements, they're spending a lot of time together. I'm a big fan of Ellwood after reading this book and I really want to read the next! I do think Seth's story would have been interesting to read, but his daughter's will be just as great! 

About the Author

Although Sara Walter Ellwood has long ago left the farm for the glamour of the big town, she draws on her experiences growing up on a small hobby farm in West Central Pennsylvania to write her contemporary westerns. She’s been married to her college sweetheart for over 20 years, and they have two teenagers and one very spoiled rescue cat named Penny. She longs to visit the places she writes about and jokes she’s a cowgirl at heart stuck in Pennsylvania suburbia. Sara Walter Ellwood is a multi-published and international Amazon bestselling author of the anthology set Cowboy Up. She also publishes paranormal romantic suspense under the pen name Cera duBois.

[Review] Once and Again by Elisabeth Barrett

Once and Again by Elisabeth Barrett
Series: Return to Briarwood, #1
Publisher: Loveswept
Publishing Date: July 14, 2015
302 Pages
Format: ARC, ebook
Links: Goodreads | Amazon | B&N
Goodreads rating: 5 stars

Synopsis 

Growing up in Eastbridge, Connecticut, Carolyn Rivington was a young debutante who did whatever her parents asked. So when her father demanded that she break things off with the boy from the wrong side of the tracks or else, she did. Now Carolyn’s family is deep in debt. She’s no longer a member of the Briarwood Golf and Yacht Club, she’s an employee. And the tanned, tattooed, dangerously handsome stranger who saunters into her lobby isn’t just her new boss . . . he’s also her first love.

The last time he saw Carolyn, Jake Gaffney was in the back of a police cruiser, handcuffed and humiliated. But seeing her again stirs other memories: a blanket on the beach, the moon above their heads, and the most expensive bottle of wine he could afford. Now the tables have turned. As a real-estate magnate and Briarwood’s new owner, Jake doesn’t have to answer to anyone. But now that he’s back home, he’s finding it hard to live down his old reputation.

Before they can move forward, Jake and Carolyn must face their pasts. But it’ll take more than sizzling chemistry for them to heal old wounds and return to the love they once shared. 

My Review

I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. 

What a great way to start out my new year for books! This was a great novel by Barrett. I started it this morning when I was biking at the gym, and finished it while my husband was playing video games. We had a very relaxing day and I'm glad I was able to enjoy this book during it!

Carolyn used to be very wealthy, but she learned about a yea ago that her family doesn't have any money left, and she doesn't know what to do. So she returns to Briarwood, a club that she grew up attending with her family, and the same place she met Jake 15 years ago. They had a young, forbidden romance and both ended up broken-hearted. Jake has now come back to Briarwood as well, and the two have to learn to work together to make this business successful. Both of these characters were easy to love and relate to. Carolyn, although born with a silver spoon, really has no idea how to survive without her family's wealth. But she learns the hard way and perseveres. Jake on the other hand, grew up with next to nothing and has made himself into a multi-millionaire. Both characters are very charismatic, and I immediately loved Jake. Seriously, who doesn't love a tatted, rough-around-the-edges guy? No brainer for me! 

I love that these two characters have a history together and are getting a second chance at love. They had a lot to overcome throughout the story, but made their love work. I also really loved that this novel wasn't just about these two. We find out a little about Jane, Carolyn's new friend, and her struggles, as well as legal problems that Carolyn is facing with her family. There's so much going on in this book and it was hard to put down! Which, clearly, I didn't do much, other than to get food (: Highly recommend! And I just got the second one in this series, which I can't wait to read! 

Next in this series: 

Best of Me by Elisabeth Barrett

[Mini Review] Once Upon a Cowboy by Maggie McGinnis

Once Upon a Cowboy by Maggie McGinnis
Series: Whisper Creek, #3
Publisher: Loveswept
Publishing Date: June 30, 2015
Format: ebook
285 pages
Goodreads

Synopsis 

In this sexy Whisper Creek romance for readers of Kristan Higgins, Susan Mallery, and Molly O’Keefe, a red-hot cowboy uses some Montana magic to give a reclusive beauty her happily ever after.

Yoga instructor Jessalyn Alcott radiates peace, calm, and serenity—on the outside. Inside, she still feels like the broken, desperate girl from the trailer park. She’s got dark secrets she can’t share, which is why she never lets her relationships go beyond the third date. But when she travels to the Whisper Creek dude ranch for a friend’s wedding, Jess is enchanted by a cowboy whose deep blue eyes, dimpled smile, and rock-hard body make it tough to remember why she keeps running scared.

Cole Driscoll has struggled to find his place on a family ranch where he’s always played second fiddle. His future might be uncertain, but he’s sure of one thing: He wants Jess by his side. Easier said than done. When it comes to getting close, she’s full of excuses, and he longs to fix the hurt he sees in her eyes. Now that she’s at Whisper Creek, there’s nothing he wants more than to break down the walls around her heart and heal her pain with the power of love.

My Review

I received a free copy of this ebook in exchange for an honest review. 

I read this book earlier this year and really enjoyed it. I just realized, as I was making lists for this upcoming year, that I never reviewed it! Oops! So I thought I would write a mini review of this one since it's been a while since I read it, but still wanted to give it the attention it deserves. There's just something about cowboys that intrigue me though I've never met a one. Maybe it's because they're working outside all day, riding horses, being with animals. I don't know. But it's pretty sexy (at least, it is in books). I know real life might not be quite that sexy, but dang, these authors know how to write about them! Jessalyn has a lot of secrets and wants to keep to herself. But once she meets Cole, it's a game changer and she won't ever be the same. This was a fun, romantic read with a lot of emotions. I've read other novels by McGinnis and I can't wait to read more! 

[Review] Dirty English by Isla Madden-Mills

Dirty English

by Isla Madden-Mills

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**Dirty English is a modern love story inspired by Pride and Prejudice**

Synopsis 

A scarred fighter.

A girl with rules.

One night of unbridled passion.

There are three things you need to know about Elizabeth Bennett: she’s smart as a whip, always in control, and lives by a set of carefully crafted rules. She’s learned the hard way that people you love the most always hurt you in the end.

But then she meets Declan Blay, the new neighbor at her apartment complex.

A tattooed British street fighter, he’s the campus bad boy she’s supposed to avoid, but when he saves her from a frat party gone bad, all her rules about sex and love fly out the window.

She gives him one night of unbridled passion, but he longs for more. 

With only a cardboard-thin wall separating their bedrooms, he dreams of possessing the vulnerable girl next door forever.

One night. Two damaged hearts. The passion of a lifetime.

About the Author

New York Times and USA Today best-selling author Ilsa Madden-Mills writes about strong  heroines and sexy alpha males that sometimes you just want to slap.

She's addicted to all things fantasy, including unicorns and sword-wielding heroes in books. Other fascinations include frothy coffee beverages, dark chocolate, Instagram, Ian Somerhalder (seriously hot), astronomy (she's a Gemini), Sephora make-up, and tattoos. 

She has a degree in English and a Master's in Education.

When she's not pecking away on her computer, she shops for cool magnets, paints old furniture, and eats her weight in sushi.

SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS

You can stalk her on her website as well as get signed books: http://www.ilsamaddenmills.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorilsamaddenmills?pnref=lhc

IG: https://instagram.com/ilsamaddenmills/

Twitter: @ilsamaddenmills

Ilsa Madden-Mills’ other books:

VERY BAD THINGS

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VERY WICKED BEGINNINGS

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VERY WICKED THINGS

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VERY TWISTED THINGS

Amazon: http://amzn.to/1cvvkkh

iBooks: http://apple.co/1eN7Clh

BN: http://bit.ly/1KK0ljh

Kobo: http://bit.ly/1BHcK4R

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