Thursday 29 June 2023

Excerpt Reveal: Something Unexpected by Vi Keeland

VI KEELAND

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EXCERPT REVEAL!

Something Unexpected by Vi Keeland releases July 3!

 

Take a sneak peek at SOMETHING UNEXPECTED.

You know you want to…

 

Beck threw his head back in laughter. I’d just insulted the guy, and he was amused. “I guess I made a pretty sh*tty first impression.”

I deadpanned. “You told me I should look someplace more respectable for my dates.”

“I thought you deserved better.”

“I think you’re full of sh*t. You’re only being nice now because you know I was looking for a night of no strings attached, and you think you have a shot at being my replacement.”

“Am I out of the running?”

I took a moment to check him out again. Damn, he’s pretty. “You’re only hanging on by a thread because you’re gorgeous.”

A slow, sexy smile spread across his face. “I like your honesty.”

“I like your jawline.”

His eyes gleamed. “You’ll like my big di¢k even better.”

I bit my bottom lip. The conversation had just taken a turn toward most of my Tinder messages—definitely a place I was more comfortable than talking about why I wanted to forget my life for a while. “How do I know you’re not a serial killer?”

“How did you know the Tinder loser wasn’t?”

Good point. I sipped my wine. “How old are you?”

“Old enough that I know what to do with you, and young enough that I don’t have to take a pill to do it.”

I smirked. “Is that so? You know what to do with me?”

He smiled self-assuredly. “I do, yes.”

The air crackled between us. For some reason, I knew this guy could deliver on his promise. Maybe it was his quiet confidence, or maybe it was that a man who looked the way he did got lots of practice. The latter would’ve been a turnoff if I was looking for more than one night, but it didn’t much matter if it served my purposes for a one-time deal.

I looked into his too-blue eyes. “Tell me then.”

“Tell you what?”

“What you would do with me.”

The wicked grin that slid across his face almost made me want to take back what I’d asked. Almost.

Beck lifted his glass and gulped his drink before leaning over to my ear. “I’d start by…



 

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Add to Goodreads: https://bit.ly/43XMmT1

*Please note: There will not be an Amazon ebook pre-order, but it will be available on Amazon on release day.
 
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Wednesday 24 May 2023

New Release Book Review: Consequence of Their Forbidden Night by Rachael Stewart


Rachael Stewart's latest romance, "Their One Night Baby", is a heart-warming and emotional story about two best friends who cross the line one night and must navigate the consequences of their actions. This novel is a perfect combination of romance, friendship, and unexpected challenges. It's the second book in the Billionaires for the Rose Sisters series.

The story follows Brendan, a successful criminal defence lawyer, and Hannah, his best friend since childhood. Despite their undeniable attraction to each other, they have never acted on their feelings. However, one spontaneous night changes everything. When Hannah reveals that their one night together had caused an unexpected consequence, Brendan's shocked and unsure how to handle the situation…

Ms. Stewart has created two relatable and engaging characters in Brendan and Hannah. Hannah, specifically, shows resilience to conform to what others, including Brendan, believe is the right way to move their relationship forward in a positive way. I loved this about her, and her determination not to compromise. It's a classic case of poor communication between friends who haven't had to question their emotional feelings towards each other before. It highlights the strengths and weaknesses of their close friendship, exposing their emotions as raw and real. As they navigate the ups and downs of unexpected parenthood, they both grow and mature, learning to trust and rely on each other in new ways.

The plot moves at a good pace, with enough twists and turns to keep the reader engaged. The romantic tension between Brendan and Hannah is palpable, and their chemistry is sizzling. The author has done an excellent job of balancing the emotional drama with light-hearted moments and humour.

Overall, "Their One Night Baby" is an enjoyable and satisfying read. It's a story about second chances, unexpected love, and the power of friendship. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a romance novel with a strong emotional core.

***arc generously received courtesy of the publisher***


Their friendship is about to get very complicated when his best friend reveals their one spontaneous night had consequences… Find out what happens in the latest Harlequin Romance by Rachael Stewart!

Best friends…

until one night changes it all!

Top criminal defense lawyer Brendan is used to getting everything he wants. The only thing he can’t have? Best friend Hannah Rose. Until one night forbidden passions unexpectedly ignite and the barriers they put in place years ago are impulsively put aside. Now, determined to recover their friendship, Brendan tries to forget about their spontaneous encounter—until Hannah reveals it had consequences…

From Harlequin Romance:  Be swept away by glamorous and heartfelt love stories.

Billionaires for the Rose Sisters

Book 1: Billionaire's Island Temptation
Book 2: Consequence of Their Forbidden Night


AMAZON US          AMAZON UK


Friday 5 May 2023

Review: Wish Upon A Cornish Moon by Amanda James


(from Goodreads)

‘I can see you don’t believe me, girl, but I’m telling you that there’s magic in the moon and that big sea out there.’ Grandma Mary cleared her throat and winked. ‘Dreams come true for them as take those old tales to heart.’ 1938
One midnight in June, 15-year-old Lamorna Williams throws a message in a bottle into the Atlantic at Magic Cove, hoping to meet her one true love – and someone writes back. 1997
On the other side of the world, Lamorna tells her story to her 16-year-old great nephew Ethan inspiring him to do the same. But this time, his message isn’t found for over twenty years… Present day
Single mum, Merrin Pascoe, is told of the legend of Magic Cove. In a moment of madness, Merrin wishes on the moon, and next day she finds a bottle in the sea. Will the cove cast its spell once again… Readers love

Every now and again, a novel surprises me and this one certainly did. It's a pure delight from beginning to end.

The narrative begins with Grandmother Mary and her experience with the local folktale. She shares the details with her granddaughters, Lamorna and Morwenna, telling them how their dreams can come true...if they believe... It's simply to write a message in a bottle and follow the ritual on the Full Moon in June, down at Capel Porth Cove aka Magic Cove. Both young women choose to believe when the time was right for them and succeeded in finding their true love. Therefore, both are eager for the younger generation to embrace the tradition and for them to believe it can work for them too.

I liked how the author manages to weaver the past with the present, as we are introduced to Merrin and Ethan. Both have a tentative connection to the two sisters and how fate has brought them together. Just like those before them, they also have to have hope and faith and a belief that life will allow them to be together. Just like Lamorna and Morwenna, life throws up challenges for the pair to navigate and in the spirit of a happy ending, all turns out well!

Ms. James has written an enchanting story spanning several generations. Set again a mainly Cornish backdrop, we learn about a charming folk tale about how local young women can find a sweetheart if they just believe...

***arc generously received courtesy of One More Chapter via NetGalley***



AMAZON UK          AMAZON US




Monday 1 May 2023

Review: Falling Hard For The Royal Guard by Megan Clawson




Love is in the heir in this royally good rom com debut releasing in Spring 2023 – perfect for anyone who likes relatable heroines (with great hair), hot and aloof book boyfriends (with great hats), near misses, almost kisses and a corgi or two.

Despite living in an actual castle, happily ever after is evading Margaret ‘Maggie’ Moore.

From her bedroom in the Tower of London, twenty-six-year-old Maggie has always dreamed of her own fairy-tale ending.

Yet this is twenty-first century London, so instead of knights on white horses, she has catfish on Tinder. And with her last relationship ending in spectacular fashion, she swears off men for good.

And then a chance encounter with Royal Guard Freddie forces Maggie to admit that she isn’t ready to give up on love just yet… But how do you catch the attention of someone who is trained to ignore all distractions?

Can she snare that true love’s first kiss… or is she royally screwed?

A right royal rom com, perfect for fans of Red, White and Royal Blue and The Royal We.

Margaret "Maggie" Moore is back living with her dad, a Beefeater at the Tower of London after ending her seven-year relationship with Bran. She's lonely and hates her job. When she literally bumps into a handsome man, she's instantly smitten but he's angry at her clumsiness. She brushes off and dismisses the incident until she sees the same man again…under vastly differing circumstances…!

Maggie is likeable but I also felt sorry for her. She's stuck in a rut and suffering the consequences of her previous actions. She finds solace in her surroundings; she's a history fanatic who has embraced where she lives.

The narrative is a blend of fascinating historical facts and an insight into the somewhat chaotic happenings in the otherwise mundane life of a woman searching for more than she currently has. Maggie's upbeat, but shows that even the strongest of women gets hurt when things go wrong.
In contrast, Freddie is aloof. The author hints at his background and character so we are grateful for the fun antics of the other guardsmen he is serving with and for them collectively embracing friendship with Maggie.

The tentative bond between Maggie and Freddie is slow as they develop a friendship based on mutual curiosity and interest. However, other shenanigans in Maggie's life at the Tower, tend to distract away from the blossoming attraction. Yet, the author's enthusiasm for the Tower of London is such, that a reader will want to turn the pages to discover more…

As a reader, I always love reading a book, where I can learn something new and Ms Clawson has written a delightful and fun novel brimming with history about the Tower of London with a sprinkle of romance and high jinks.

Overall, If you are intrigued by British Royalty, history, and romance, this is a book for you.

***arc generously received courtesy of Avon via NetGalley***




AMAZON US          AMAZON UK





Thursday 6 April 2023

Book Review: Dreams of the Cottage by the Sea by Rebecca Alexander



As the waves crash against the boat, Nicole wonders if the island will be as magical as she remembers… Will it offer her the new beginning she’s been searching for?

When Nicole finds herself in need of a new start, she instantly thinks of Morwen Island. She remembers the beautiful, remote place from her student days and, as she thinks of its cobbled streets and salty sea air, she wonders if this might be the place where she can begin again…

As she settles into island life, Nicole begins to feel like her old self. And when a knock on her cottage door brings handsome local Josh, who she remembers from her time on the island, she is instantly attracted to his charming smile. With their shared passion for the island’s wildlife, they spend more time together, and soon Nicole finds it hard to ignore her growing feelings. But is her fragile heart ready to embrace the possibility of love once more?

When Josh suggests they investigate the supposedly haunted old house where Nicole lived as a student, she is forced to put her feelings for him to one side. She recalls the past heartache she felt there all too well and, as she looks up at the crumbling old building, she wonders whether the locals are right. Does the house still have secrets to hide?

As she explores, Nicole learns about the women who lived there during the Second World War, a long-forgotten family secret, and a loss that will break her heart…As Nicole pieces together what really happened during the war, she feels a stronger pull to the island than ever before. Will she be able to uncover what became of the women who lived in the old house? And, if she does, will she learn from their story, and open her heart to a new life with her one true love on Morwen Island?


AMAZON US          AMAZON UK

Having read the previous books in The Cottage by the Sea series, I couldn’t wait to dive into Rebecca Alexander's latest instalment, Dreams of the Cottage by the Sea; the third title based on the Atlantic island of Morwen.

Recovering from devastating injuries sustained after a horrific car crash, Nicole is slowly trying to piece together her life. She rents a cottage on an island where she lived during her student days and hopes, a complete change of scenery will help her heal and regain strength whilst deciding what she wants to do with her life.

Readers are instantly confronted with the challenges Nicole faces as soon as she arrives on Morwen. Those who are familiar with the series will quickly recognise familiar characters as she settles into her new home for a year. It isn’t long before her passion for nature conservation leads to a meeting with Josh, the local wildlife warden.

Ms. Alexander’s beautiful island descriptions draw the reader quickly into this duel timeline novel. The overall feel of the narrative is uplifting; exploring the power of community support, the beauty of the natural world, and the resilience of the human spirit. The protagonists are both mourning their losses, creating empathy and an unexpected connection. All this is artfully interwoven with the history and secrets of the cottage during WWII. The characters are relatable and inspiring, and their stories remind us that even in the face of adversity there is hope.

Overall, Dreams of the Cottage by the Sea is a must-read for anyone seeking a heart-warming and uplifting story. I also highly recommend the other novels in this tremendous series; all are stand-alone.

***arc generously received courtesy of the publisher Bookouture via NetGalley***










Thursday 30 March 2023

Book Excerpt Reveal: The Rules of Dating My Best Friend's Sister by Vi Keeland & Penelope Ward




Title: The Rules of Dating My Best Friend's Sister
Authors: Vi Keeland & Penelope Ward
Genre: Standalone Contemporary Romance
Release Date: April 2, 2023


Excited about Vi Keeland & Penelope Ward’s 
upcoming release, The Rules of Dating 
My Best Friend's Sister? 
Check out this SNEAK PEEK!

“What the hell?” He stood on the other side of the door. “Where’s the doorknob?”
I leaned down and spoke through the hole where the knob used to be. “It’s in here with me. The lock jammed, and the knob came off in my hands when I tried to pull it open.”
“Alright. Give me a minute. I need to run next door to get a screwdriver.”
“I have one now! I picked it up after the beeping incident, so I wouldn’t need to bug you again. It’s in the top drawer in the kitchen!”
“Okay, great. Hang on.”
Two minutes later, the door popped open. It wasn’t until I saw Holden’s face that I remembered I was only wearing a tank top and underwear, sans bra.
He gulped and took a long look before turning his head. “Sorry. I didn’t realize you weren’t dressed.”
I wasn’t the only one scantily clad. Holden had on only a pair of boxer briefs, his beautiful tanned skin and carved six pack on full display for my eager eyes, yet again. I couldn’t stop myself from staring. Silence ticked by until Holden turned his head back, probably to see why I’d grown quiet. “You oka—”
My eyes rose to meet his, but not before he’d caught me ogling him.
I shook my head and laughed nervously. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to stare. I just hadn’t expected you to be in your underwear either, I guess. It caught me off guard.”
Holden ran a hand through his hair. “Yeah, I’m sorry if I checked you out, too.”
I should’ve just left the bathroom and covered up with a robe, but something about being near this man made me say and do things that were completely out of character. “Would you mind if I…looked a little more?”
Holden’s brows shot up to his hairline. “You want to check me out?”
My face heated. I shook my head and looked down. “Oh my gosh. I’m so embarrassed. I think the lack of sleep and stress from being locked in here made me a little bonkers. It’s just that maybe we both have some pent-up curiosity about what we look like as adults. I mean, I’ve only stolen glimpses of you without a shirt on since we were teenagers in my backyard pool. And you certainly haven’t seen me in a skimpy bottom and no bra since then. I guess I was thinking if we took a good, long look, once and for all, we might get it out of our systems.”
Holden stared at me. I could see the wheels in his head spinning. Eventually, his eyes dropped to my chest. “You have no bra on…”
I shook my head. “No bra.”
He swallowed. “Let’s do it.”
“Really?”
He nodded. “Fuck yeah. I’m going to hell anyway. Might as well enjoy the ride down. But you have to stay in the bathroom, and I’ll stay on this side of the doorway.”
“Okay.” I bit my bottom lip. “You look first.”
“Why don’t we look at the same time?”
I nodded. “Good idea. How long should we do it for?”
Holden shrugged. “A minute?”
“Do you have your phone?”
“No. I thought someone broke in and you were being attacked. My phone was the last thing on my mind.”
“Mine should be on the coffee table. Do you want to grab it so we can use the timer?”
Holden walked away and came back ten seconds later. “What’s your code?”
“Zero, seven, one, three.”
He started to type and then froze before looking up at the ceiling. “That’s the day you’re getting married, isn’t it?”
I nodded.
Holden cursed as he went back to typing. “I’m so fucking going to hell.”
He called up the clock app and then turned the phone to show me. The countdown was set for one minute. His finger hovered over the green button. “You ready?”
I nodded.
Holden pressed the button, and we began to openly ogle each other.

Copyright © 2022 by Vi Keeland and Penelope Ward




AMAZON US / UK / CA / AU




From New York Times bestselling authors Vi Keeland and Penelope Ward comes a new standalone romance.
Rule number one for dating your best friend’s sister: Don’t.
Just don’t do it.
Especially when your best friend is dead and the last thing he made you promise him was that you’d keep an eye on his little sister, but not too good of an eye.
As a musician whose longest committed relationship was six weeks, I, Holden Catalano, was the last guy on Earth who should’ve been messing around with Laney Ellison.
The super smart girl whom I affectionately dubbed Lala since childhood was always off limits.
Though that didn’t stop me from thinking about her over the years, especially those times when the two of us would sneak out onto the roof and talk for hours after my buddy fell asleep. It was innocent, but I’d always held a torch for her.
After Ryan passed away, I vowed to always protect Lala. That included protecting her—from me.
Now all grown up and a scientist, Lala needed a place to stay when she accepted a temporary research position in New York. I thought I did the right thing by offering her an apartment in the building I co-owned with my three friends.
Except having her close by reignited all of those old feelings.
And things started to get complicated.
Especially since she was engaged.
And especially since, lately, I’d noticed something more in her eyes. Desire.
Lala didn’t exactly look at me like the platonic brother figure I was trying so desperately to be, even though I wanted her more than I’d ever wanted anything.
Yet, I was being good—on my very best behavior.
But you know what they say…all good things must come to an end, right?

VI KEELAND


Vi Keeland is a #1 New York Times, #1 Wall Street Journal, and USA Today Bestselling author. With millions of books sold, her titles are currently translated in twenty-seven languages and have appeared on bestseller lists in the US, Germany, Brazil, Bulgaria and Hungary. Three of her short stories have been turned into films by Passionflix, and two of her books are currently optioned for movies. She resides in New York with her husband and their three children where she is living out her own happily ever after with the boy she met at age six.



PENELOPE WARD


Penelope Ward is a New York Times, USA Today and #1 Wall Street Journal bestselling author of contemporary romance. 

She grew up in Boston with five older brothers and spent most of her twenties as a television news anchor. Penelope resides in Rhode Island with her husband, son, and beautiful daughter with autism. 

With over two million books sold, she is a 21-time New York Times bestseller and the author of over thirty novels. Her books have been translated into over a dozen languages and can be found in bookstores around the world.



OTHER BOOKS BY VI & PENELOPE


AMAZON US / UK / CA / AU

Free in Kindle Unlimited

ALSO AVAILABLE IN PRINT & AUDIO




AMAZON US / UK / CA / AU

Free in Kindle Unlimited

ALSO AVAILABLE IN PRINT & AUDIO




OTHER BOOKS BY VI


AMAZON US / UK / CA / AU



AMAZON US / UK / CA / AU


OTHER BOOKS BY PENELOPE


AMAZON US / UK / CA / AU



AMAZON US / UK / CA / AU


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