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Tuesday, June 30, 2015

Book Review: Hearts Made Whole by Jody Hedlund

Hearts Made Whole (Beacons of Hope, #2)

Book Description:

After her father’s death, Caroline Taylor has grown confident running the Windmill Point Lighthouse. But in 1865 Michigan, women aren’t supposed to have such roles, so it’s only a matter of time before the lighthouse inspector appoints a new keeper–even though Caroline has nowhere else to go and no other job available to her.

Ryan Chambers is a Civil War veteran still haunted by the horrors of battle. He’s been given the post as lighthouse keeper, and the isolation where he can drown in drink and hide from his past is appealing. He’s not expecting the current keeper to be a feisty and beautiful woman who’s none-too-pleased to be giving up her position. They both quickly realize he’s in no shape to run the lighthouse, but Ryan’s unwilling to let anyone close, ravaged by memories and guilt. Caroline’s drawn to this wounded soul, but with both of them relying on that single position, can they look past their loss to a future filled with hope…and possibly love?


Book Review:

I'm struggling to write this review. Here's the thing. It's a good story, and it's well written. However there were just certain things that made me cringe and rather uncomfortable. Not because it was inappropriate. Well, technically, drinking and drugs and taking both till you don't know what you are doing, and the choice of Caroline's sister at the end of the book was inappropriate, but it wasn't written in an inappropriate way, if that makes any sense. I know these are real topics, real problems, but it just wasn't for me.  I'm glad that Caroline was super forgiving and a wonderful person, and I'm glad Ryan realizes that he has to fix things without relying on her, but much of the book I was just uncomfortable with one situation and then another. 

This is the second book in the series, but it is a stand alone book. I haven't read the first one, and I wasn't lost and didn't feel like I was missing anything at all.

Overall I would recommend this author (I've enjoyed previous books of hers), but I can't say I'd recommend this book. I will keep trying more from her, however.

Hearts Made Whole (Beacons of Hope, #2)
Title:  Hearts Made Whole
Author: Jody Hedlund
Publisher: Bethany House
Published: June 2015
ISBN:  1462116639
Source: I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for a review.

Monday, June 29, 2015

Blog Tour: The Sheik's Ruby by Jennifer Moore

The Sheik's Ruby
Blog Tour Schedule
The Sheik's Ruby by Whitney Award Winning Author Jennifer Moore

Book Description:
 
Shelby wants to break away from the mold of her small town and make a name for herself in the big-city journalism world. While skiing, she meets mysterious stranger Hakim who is actually the prince of the Middle Eastern kingdom of Khali-dar. When his enemies learn of Hakim’s connection to an American girl, they target Shelby. Fleeing to the safety of Khali-dar, Shelby falls deeper in love not only with the prince, but with his country. As she struggles to survive terrorist attacks, withstand the Sheik’s prejudice, and find her place in a world she doesn’t understand, she must choose which life she is willing to sacrifice—the comfortable one she has worked so hard to create, or the one with the man she loves.

Review:

I first heard about author Jennifer Moore last year when I read Becoming Lady Lockwood (if you like historical fiction/Regency romance, don't miss Becoming Lady Lockwood-especially if you appreciate clean books). Since then, I've been excited to read anything else that Moore has had published. When I read about The Sheik's Ruby I wondered how it would compare to her other books. I wasn't captivated by the cover, but I decided to give it a try anyway, and I'm glad that I did.

The Sheik's Ruby is a fun read with interesting characters. I really liked how Shelby and Hakim met. They had an adventure right off, and when that took them to Shelby's hometown, I got a kick out of Hakim's interaction with her family and the country life.

I kept going back and forth about Shelby being in Khali-dar and what that meant for her life and family. The adventure included in this part of the book definitely made it more exciting than your standard romance novel.

There is a sweet ending, and the book is clean. If you are looking for a quick, fun romance to read this summer, give The Sheik's Ruby a try.

Excerpt:

“Does your father know you’re asking me?” 

Hakim gazed over her shoulder and took a deep breath. 

“He knows.” 

“But he doesn’t want me to come, right?” 

“I will bring a companion of my choice tomorrow.” 

He locked his gaze onto Shelby’s and leaned toward her. 

“You are my choice. Will you please come?” 

The Sheik apparently doesn’t buy into the whole “guests are gifts from Allah” idea. 

“Of course, I would love to come.” 

She smiled, but knew it didn’t appear convincing. She hated feeling like she was the source of their discord. 

“You are nervous. Please do not feel uncomfortable.” 

“I’m worried I’ll say or do something stupid.” She winced. “I’m not exactly a refined debutante who knows how to act in formal situations. I don’t want to embarrass you, Hakim.” 

“I do not want you to be a refined debutante. I have spent enough time with those people to know they are not what I want.”

Hakim maneuvered his horse until he faced Shelby and their legs were nearly touching. He leaned closer, his gaze earnest. 

“What I want is you, Shelby Jo.” 

He cupped her cheek in his hand. Shelby felt her heart flutter and her nerve endings tingle as she lost herself in the deep brown pools of his eyes. His thumb stroked her skin, leaving a trail of heat in its wake. He slid his hand into her hair and drew her closer, his lips covering hers. When she drew away, Shelby inhaled deeply and grinned. 

“Hearing you put it that way, how could I possibly refuse?”

add to goodreads 

Praise for Sheik's Ruby:

“What a fun read! THE SHEIK’S RUBY is a fabulous Cinderella story with both ancient and modern tones you don’t want to miss.” ~Josi Kilpack

“THE SHEIK’S RUBY is a perfect blend of romance and adventure, set in locales both familiar and exotic. When I finished, I wanted to start over and enjoy it again. ~Nancy Allen

About the Author:

JenniferJennifer Moore is a passionate reader and writer of all things romance due to the need to balance the rest of her world that includes a perpetually traveling husband and four active sons, who create heaps of laundry that is anything but romantic. She suffers from an unhealthy addiction to 18th and 19th century military history and literature. Jennifer has a B.A. in Linguistics from the University of Utah and is a Guitar Hero champion. She lives in northern Utah with her family, but most of the time wishes she was on board a frigate during the Age of Sail.

   
Also by Jennifer Moore: Becoming Lady Lockwood (2014 Whitney Award Winner), Lady Emma's Campaign & Miss Burton Unmasks a Prince.


25_Amazon_Paypal 

Blog Tour Giveaway:

$25 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash
Ends 7/17/15
Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

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sheiksTitle: The Sheik's Ruby
Author: Jennifer Moore
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press, Inc.
Published: April 2015
ISBN: 1509201327
Source: I received an eCopy via the tour host in exchange for a review.

Purchase:  Amazon | Kindle | Wild Rose Press | Barnes & Noble

Friday, June 26, 2015

Book Review: Bilwok: Dawn of the Trolls by George Anthon Kibbie

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/91E41LxVMyL.jpg


Book Description:

When Bilwok discovers the ancient record of his people, it changes everything he's ever known about himself, his fellow trolls, and the world beyond his hidden home. Now he has to decide where his loyalties lie and how far he'll go to find the truth. Discover the intriguing world of trolls in this fascinating fantasy that's filled with twists and surprises!

Book Review:

This book drew me in from the very beginning. I have always loved post-apocalyptic books and throwing trolls in the mix was very intriguing. In many books where teenagers are the main character, you tend to forget that they are still just kids. This book is different in that you are shown, several times, that Bilwok is young and still relies on his parents for guidance in a lot of ways

I am very interested in the back story of how the trolls came to be where they are, and how the humans play a role in their story. While reading the book, I kept getting hints that all was not as it appeared to be on the surface. I'm definitely looking forward to book two so I can follow this story as it continues.

If I had one complaint about the book, it would be that the author didn't use very many contractions (i.e. "will not" for "won't.") Maybe it was intentional, to show how the trolls spoke, or maybe that's simply how the author speaks, but for me, it interrupted the flow of the story. Not a major downside by any means, but still noticeable.

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/91E41LxVMyL.jpg

Title:  Bilwok: Dawn of the Trolls
Author: George Anthon Kibbie
Publisher: Cedar Fort
Published: June 2015
ISBN:  1462116639
Source: I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for a review.

Purchase: Amazon  Barnes & Noble

Monday, June 22, 2015

Book Review: Taken by Dee Henderson

Taken

Book Description:

 Abducted at the age of sixteen and coerced into assisting the Jacoby crime family, Shannon Bliss has finally found a way out. She desperately wants to resume some semblance of normal life, but she also knows she has some unfinished business to attend to. She has enough evidence to put her captors behind bars for a very long time.

When Shannon contacts private investigator and former cop Matthew Dane to help her navigate her reentry into society, she quickly discovers that gaining her freedom doesn’t mean her troubles are over. For one thing, her brother is the leading candidate in the race for Illinois governor, and news of her escape will create a media frenzy. For another, the ransom her family reportedly paid years earlier appears to have been a scam; no one knows what happened to the money. And then there’s the fact that Shannon’s escape involved faking her own death. If the Jacoby family learns she is still alive, they’ll stop at nothing to silence her.

If justice is to be done, and if Shannon’s life is ever to get on track again, Matthew will need to discover exactly what happened to her–even if it means stirring up a hornet’s nest of secrets.


Book Review:

Labeled as Romantic Suspense, I have to seriously disagree with that. There is no romance, and there is no suspense. When I read the back cover I got really excited. Sounds great, doesn't it? Except nothing really happens in the book that I would term a climax, or even a conflict really. The whole book is kind of like the resolution and we missed out on what makes a great suspense novel full of suspense.

And romance wise there was a lot of weirdness going on. First, Matthew is 15 years older than Shannon. Which didn't have to be a big deal, but he keeps comparing her to his daughter (she's only a few years older than his daughter). He treats her like his daughter, and since she needs the safety and comfort she lets him. Actually, she has a list, and I get the impression that she just wants to cross items off (two being marriage and children) and since Matthew isn't objectionable and fits her criteria she is okay with having a relationship. There aren't any feelings, just a check list.In fact, her first kiss is because she tells him she wants to know what it's like, and he is a safe person (friend) so she wouldn't object if he kissed her. So he does. Isn't that weird? The romantic in me died a little at that part. That isn't romance or attraction, it's simple curiosity.

I wouldn't label this as boring, like I did Undetected, because I kept reading and was mildly entertained, but when I realized nothing was going to happen I was really disappointed.  If I recommended it to anyone it would be because I would be curious to see if they thought the same thing I did. As an general overall recommendation, I would suggest reading something else.

Taken
Title:  Taken
Author: Dee Henderson
Publisher: Bethany House
Published: April 2015
ISBN:  076421408X
Source: I received an eCopy from NetGalley in exchange for a review.

Friday, June 19, 2015

Book Review: Kisses in the Rain by Krista Lynne Jensen

Reviews * Giveaway


Kisses in the Rain by Krista Lynne Jensen

Book Description:

Georgie Tate is a survivor. She survived an abusive relationship. She survived the car accident that took the life of her controlling fiance. Now she just needs to survive the memories that haunt her. Escaping to her aunts' cozy home on a tiny island outside of Seattle, Georgie finds just the change of pace she needs to pick up the pieces of her life. Taking a job at a local seafood restaurant is the first step in reclaiming her sense of self, but she is completely unprepared for the battle that awaits her there.

Jace Lowe has loved and lost, and he's determined that it will never happen again. Hardened by heartbreak, he stays focused on his work as sous chef at one of the island's top seafood restaurants. When beautiful Georgie takes her place on the restaurant's staff, Jace is resolved to keep her at arm's length, and his downright rudeness her first week goes a long way in achieving that goal. Georgie, on the other hand, doesn't want anything to do with Jace anyway and prickles against his abrasive behavior. As the combative pair comes together on a joint project for the restaurant, they find their distaste for one another dwindling. The connection is undeniable—and it terrifies them both. Can two people jaded by the past be softened by the promise of once-in-a-lifetime love, or is this just another recipe for disaster?

Rorie's Review:

I really enjoyed this book. Both main characters come with some baggage that they need to work through, and it takes time - and a few backsteps - to get things right. After Jace got over his grumpiness, he turned out to be a very likeable guy. Georgie had a hard time trusting anyone, even herself, due to her past, but gradually she was able to move on with her life one step at a time.

I found myself getting frustrated that Georgie couldn't remember much about the accident and what caused it, because I was dying of curiosity and just wanted to know! However, the way it played out was essential for the way the rest of the book went, so I just need to learn how to be more patient.

Not only was it good to get to know Georgie and Jace better, but the supporting characters were fun to get to know too. I also enjoyed reading about the cooking. I'm not a seafood fan at all, but it was interesting to see how they would come up with new recipes for the restaurant.

All in all, it was a fun book to read. I would definitely recommend this to people.

Tarah's Review:

I was really drawn to this book. Not only did the synopsis sound intriguing, but the cover is delightful. I don't think I would describe this as a fun book (or a cheesy LDS romance, like I normally use to describe LDS books), because of the weighty issues it covers, but it was definitely well written and hard for me to put down.

I loved how the characters are portrayed, and how they grow. I love the relationships with the secondary characters.  I love how the romance wasn't rushed, but started rocky and turned to respect and friendship and then more.

Because it is an LDS book there is some religious parts. They go to church, they talk about forgiveness, etc. While I would describe this as a clean read that I wouldn't mind a teenager reading, there is kissing (which, it's a romance, and I found it to be super sweet).

Overall, I would recommend this book, and I would reread it again and again.

Andrea's Review:

I've read a few other books by Krista Lynne Jensen, and while they were enjoyable, Kisses in the Rain is definitely her best book so far. I loved it and am looking forward to reading it again.

The author wrote such great characters, both main and supporting. Everyone played such an important role in building the story and helping Georgie and Jace heal and grow.

The story was very enjoyable. It was much deeper than your standard romance novel. The relationship built from the ground up with an initial rockiness that made it that much more real.

The setting was so well described that I almost felt like I was there. And the creation of the food for the new menu was fascinating.

I highly recommend this book.

Tour Schedule:

*June 15th: http://ilovetoreadandreviewbooks.blogspot.com/, http://www.wishfulendings.com/, http://melsshelves.blogspot.com/
*June 16th: http://gettingyourreadonaimeebrown.blogspot.com/, http://heidi-reads.blogspot.com/, http://www.rockinbookreviews.com/
*June 17th: http://minreadsandreviews.blogspot.com/, http://mybookaday.blogspot.com, http://katiescleanbookcollection.blogspot.com/, http://www.blogginboutbooks.com/
*June 18th: http://lisaisabookworm.blogspot.com/, http://ldsandlovinit.blogspot.com/, http://rachellewrites.blogspot.com/, http://www.bonnieharris.blogspot.com/
*June 19th: http://littlelightdesigncollective.com/, http://literarytimeout.blogspot.com/

Tour Giveaway:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

About the Author:

Nearly every one of Krista Lynne Jensen's elementary school teachers made a note on her report card pointing out that she was a daydreamer. It was not a compliment. So, when Krista grew up, she put those day dreams down on paper for others to enjoy. When writing, she fuels her creativity with chocolate covered cinnamon bears and popcorn. When shes not writing, she enjoys reading, hiking, her family, and sunshine. But not laundry. She never daydreams about laundry. Krista is a native of Washington State and now lives in the northern Rocky Mountains. Through her stories she places characters in settings she loves, brings them to life, and challenges them to fight for what they want. The Orchard was inspired by Jane Austen's Persuasion and Flathead Valley, Montana, a favorite family vacation spot. If she had a cat, she would call it Jane. She is the author of Of Grace and Chocolate, 2012.

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/91ODhrvXwmL.jpg Title: Kisses in the Rain
Author: Krista Lynne Jensen
Publisher: Covenant Communications
Published: June 2015
ISBN: 1680472399
Source: We received copies from the publisher in exchange for a review.

Purchase: Amazon | Deseret Book

Tuesday, June 16, 2015

Book Review: Colorful Characters in Mormon History by Kathryn Jenkins Gordon


 Colorful Characters in Mormon History by Kathryn Jenkins Gordon

Book Description:

Most Mormons are mild-mannered, well-behaved, law-abiding citizens who tend to get along well with their neighbors. But every once in a while, there’s a renegade. You know the one: a little bit wild-eyed, ready to rumble, out to go where no Mormon has gone before. Face it: we all know one.
Well, if you think you’ve seen a colorful character or two in your ward, you should check out the colorful characters in this book—some Mormons, some non-Mormons who impacted Church history. These people are a whole new breed of colorful.

You’ll meet the guy who is credited with starting the gold rush and putting San Francisco on the map—California’s first millionaire, who dies selling pencils on the street. You’ll meet the Mormon FBI agent who was killed in a shoot-out with “Baby Face” Nelson, but not before taking out the Baby. You’ll gain a whole new appreciation for the general authority who peppered his sermons with profanity. And that’s just scratching the surface.

Most of all, you’ll find yourself shaking your head in wonder, having a knee-slapping good laugh, and maybe even shedding a tear or two here and there.

Andrea's Review:

I've always liked learning about history, but don't typically read non-fiction historical books. Frankly, I like to be entertained, and a lot of non-fiction is a bit of chore for me to read. However, Kathryn Jenkins Gordon's Colorful  Characters in Mormon History is written nothing like a dry textbook. In fact, there were times that I couldn't help but think that some of the details might be made up due to the humorous manner in which they were presented. But, there are plenty of footnotes to back up the facts.

I had the book sitting in my living room when company came over, and it wasn't uncommon for people to question Mark Twain being a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (with good reason-he wasn't a member). While the cover may mislead some, the blurb lets readers know right off that some of the chapters are about non-members that impacted the Church.

Some of the chapters actually made me a little sad, but others were fascinating. My husband and his dad saw the book and made sure to read the chapters on a couple of their relatives that made the book.

I think the book was well-written, and I'd recommend it to anyone interested in learning more about some historical figures.

Rorie's Review:

History has always been fascinating to me - as a teenager, I used to check out books on the Pony Express, Buffalo Bill Cody, etc. to read for fun - so I was excited to have a chance to read this book. This book is did not disappoint. The author has a very amusing way of presenting the facts, so it doesn't come across as dry or boring. There are definitely a lot of facts that I can put in my "gee whiz" file. :)  I had heard of some of these people, but only a few facts and others I hadn't heard of at all, or had no idea they were affiliated with Mormons in any way.

Title: Colorful Characters in Mormon History
Author: Kathryn Jenkins Gordon
Publisher: Covenant Communications Inc.
Published: April 2015
ISBN: 1680470353
Source: We received copies from the publisher in exchange for a review.

Purchase: Amazon | Kindle | Deseret Book

Thursday, June 11, 2015

Book Review: California Dreamin' Collection (A Timeless Romance Anthology Book 11)

A Timeless Romance Anthology: California Dreamin' Collection
California Dreamin' Collection
A Timeless Romance Anthology-Book 11

Book Description:

Six brand new contemporary romance novellas with bestselling and award winning authors.

In the sweet novella TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE by Heather B. Moore, Gwen uses her wedding photography business to keep her life simple and focus on something other than her own broken heart. When Jack, a guy too handsome for his own good, helps her clean up after a photoshoot, then asks her out, she doesn’t know if she can handle dating again. But Jack’s charm wins her over, and she agrees to meet him for dinner. The more she gets to know Jack, the more she likes him, but everything about him seems too good to be true.

GONE FISHING, a charming novella by Kaylee Baldwin, follows Claire as she tries to convince her dad to leave his start-up company as a boat guide and come back home to Colorado. He’s the only one who can defend Claire against her domineering mother. But when she arrives at the San Diego harbor, she’s met with more than one surprise. First, that her dad is truly living his dream and has never been happier, and second, she’s unexpectedly attracted to his business partner, Miguel.

In THE PIER CHANGES EVERYTHING, an enchanting novella by Annette Lyon, Alexandria has one last task to perform for her late husband, who died much too young: scatter his ashes in the Pacific Ocean. She goes to the Santa Monica Pier to do just that, but her plans get sidetracked after meeting Michael and feeling an immediate connection to him. They grab lunch, and the more time they spend together, the more they discover that they have in common—including past romantic hardships. As the day wears on, Alexandria begins learn that her heart just might be able to find love again.

In Jennifer Moore’s captivating novella A HERO’S SONG, AnneMarie’s career as a romance novelist is skyrocketing and her agent books her on a late night talk show. The host gets her to admit that she was in love once, with a guitar player. Moments after her segment, Lance Holden appears on the same stage, to perform his newest song. Is it a terrible coincidence? AnneMarie hasn’t seen Lance ever since he broke her heart ten years ago, and she has refused to think about him again. Their lives are worlds apart, but as Lance tries to reconcile with AnneMarie, she finds herself taking a second chance.

In STAY WITH ME, an endearing novella by Shannon Guymon, Jolie moves to L.A. to take on a nanny position for the summer, since apparently having a degree in art doesn’t translate to getting a job as a graphic designer. When Fitz, the family’s chauffeur, picks her up at the airport, she wonders if every man in LA is model-gorgeous. When Jolie meets her two charges, she finds them adorable and needy. But it’s harder to hold onto her job than she thought with a hostile Mrs. James and her spoiled brother. Fitz becomes both the silver lining of her job and the man who just might convince her to stay in L.A.

In the delightful novella, A PLACE TO CALL HOME, by Sarah M. Eden, Ada is the best realtor around. The best. She prides herself in matching each client with the house that will fit all of their needs. She hasn’t failed yet. So when Craig hires her to find him the perfect condo for him and his son, Ada is up for the challenge. What she may not be prepared for is her unforeseen attraction to Craig, her immediate attachment to his nine-year-old son, and her heart telling her that it’s okay to take another chance.


Andrea's Review:

This was a fun collection of novellas, and possibly my favorite Timeless Romance Anthology. I've read other books by all of these authors, so I was pretty excited about the collection, and I read it quickly. I will admit that I was very disappointed by the swear words in two of the books-especially since everything I've read by Annette Lyon and Jennifer Moore up to this point has been swear word free. Other than that, the books are clean and even though they are novellas, most of them don't feel too rushed.

My favorite was probably A Place to Call Home by Sarah M. Eden. Her stories are always great. Novellas can be tricky, but she nailed it. I loved that the story felt complete. It wasn't rushed and had great characters.

This is a great collection to have on hand when you just have a little bit of time here and there to read.

A Timeless Romance Anthology: California Dreamin' Collection
Title: California Dreamin' Collection
Authors: Heather B. Moore, Kaylee Baldwin, Annette Lyon, Jennifer Moore, Shannon Guymon, and Sarah M. Eden
Publisher: Mirror Press
Published: April 2015
ASIN: B00VMZQD6M
Source: I received an eCopy from one of the authors in exchange for a review.

Purchase: Kindle

Monday, June 8, 2015

Book Review: Playing for Keeps by Ranee' S. Clark

Reviews * Giveaway


Playing for Keeps by Ranee' S. Clark

Book Description:

Football-loving TyAnne Daws has long admired BYU's star quarterback from afar. This semester, she's determined to step away from the sidelines and she has the perfect game plan for winning the heart of Anthony "Rocket" Rogers. When some smart moves land her in one of his classes, she finds herself in the perfect position to make her play. But as she gets to know the real Anthony, away from the lights of the stadium, Ty realizes that this is no game she s falling in love . . . 

Anthony takes full advantage of his all-star status, holding girls at arms length for one reason: it keeps him from repeating the same mistakes that once led to a devastating heartbreak. When he meets Ty, his assumption that she's just another pretty face is quickly proven wrong. Though he s completely drawn in by this sweet young woman, her intriguing mix of amusing football know-how, and her quiet selflessness, he will not let himself fall in love. But when faced with the reality of losing the woman he's come to care for despite himself, Anthony's resolve is tested it s getting harder to keep his head in the game when his heart is on the line.

Rorie's Review: 

In the interest of full disclosure, I have to say that I am a Ute fan, so therefore, reading a book focusing on BYU football was kind of difficult for me. ;)

I enjoy a good romance, but I really like it when the main character has to work for that romance. In this book that happened almost right from the start. It did get a bit saccharine for me at times too. I liked the side story with Dylan, but I feel like it could have been developed so much more than it was.

It's probably sounding like I didn't like the book, but that isn't the case. It wasn't my favorite romance, but it was a quick, enjoyable read, even if I wanted to smack Ty and Anthony upside the head a few times for their lack of communication.

The author did a good job developing most of the characters, and I feel like I got to know them really well. I like to get to know not only the main characters but also the supporting characters, and with the exception of Dylan, I feel the author succeeded with that.

Andrea's Review:

I like what the author did with this story. I struggled with it initially because I'm not a BYU fan, but after awhile I was able to get over what team this was about and just enjoy the story. The fan worship of Anthony, the QB, felt very realistic. I did not like him. He was conceited and a player which made me disrespect him immensely. It took awhile for me to warm up to him, but I felt that he grew and became a better person throughout the story.

I liked TyAnne, the main female character, a lot. She seemed like a good person in many ways. It was a little hard to understand how she was still interested in Anthony knowing he was a player. But she was able to learn more about the real guy, and her example and caring made him better.

I also liked how this wasn't just a standard romance with the big issue stemming from lack of communication. The inclusion of Dylan added an interesting twist, albeit creepy. I really liked the friendships that were formed in the story and the protection that was offered because of it.

Tarah's Review:

I enjoy sports stories, which is surprising because I don't follow them or anything, but I enjoy them all the same. A story about college sports was a little different for me. I guess I didn't realize how big of a deal college sports were, or I'm not a BYU fan :) One of the two. So while that aspect seemed a little over done to me I'll basically just echo what Rorie and Andrea said in their reviews. It took most of the story for me to begin to like Anthony (I'll admit, I struggled with his name...and school affiliation). I did like how he tried to protect his sister though. That was sweet. I almost wanted Ty to end up with his best friend. He was a fun character. Like Rorie said, the romance was too easy, and like Andrea said I didn't understand why Ty would want to have a relationship with Anthony in the first place, knowing his reputation. All that being said, it was a quick, cute, fun read. While I can't see myself reading it again soon, I can see myself picking it up again in the future.

Tour Schedule:

*June 8th:
http://mybookaday.blogspot.com/, http://lisaisabookworm.blogspot.com, http://gettingyourreadonaimeebrown.blogspot.com/, http://literarytimeout.blogspot.com/
 *June 9th:
http://www.wishfulendings.com/, http://katiescleanbookcollection.blogspot.com/, http://fireandicereads.com/
*June 10th:
http://minreadsandreviews.blogspot.com/, http://www.ldswomensbookreview.com/wordpress/, http://melsshelves.blogspot.com/, http://heidi-reads.blogspot.com/, http://www.rockinbookreviews.com/
*June 11th:
https://joyinthemoments.wordpress.com/, http://www.bonnieharris.blogspot.com/, http://ilovetoreadandreviewbooks.blogspot.com/
*June 12th:
 http://littlelightdesigncollective.com/, http://ldsandlovinit.blogspot.com/

Tour Giveaway:

a Rafflecopter giveaway  
 
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/61vzEsO4ryL.jpg
Title: Playing for Keeps
Author: Ranee' S. Clark
Publisher: Covenant Communications
Published: June 2015
ISBN: 1621088502
Source: We received copies from the publisher in exchange for a review.

Purchase: Amazon | Deseret Book

Wednesday, June 3, 2015

Blog Tour: Summer in Snow Valley



#1 Bestselling Amazon Authors of Christmas in Snow Valley, have teamed up again with six wonderful summer novellas that are sure to make your summer sweet and sassy!

Catching Caytie by Amazon Top Seller Cindy Roland Anderson

On the night Caytie Holbrook intends to break up with her cheating boyfriend, he blindsides her by announcing their engagement at a dinner party. When Caytie discovers her father is in on the scheme, she runs away from her home in Beverly Hills to hide out at her uncle’s ranch in Snow Valley, Montana. While Snow Valley is a beautiful place, Caytie only plans to stay until her twenty-fifth birthday when she’ll inherit a trust fund her grandmother left her, allowing her to pursue her dream to move to Italy. That is until she meets Jace McAllister, an incredibly sexy—although somewhat grumpy—cowboy who threatens to disrupt her plans.


Tin Foil Tiaras by Amazon Top Seller Jeanette Lewis


Cameron Elliott has come to Snow Valley to coach Annalisa Drake in the Miss Snow Valley pageant, and prove to her demanding boss that she deserves a place at the prestigious Westbrooke Agency. But Annalisa’s handsome and protective big brother, Kyle, is determined to keep his sister from becoming a reluctant beauty queen. As Cameron tries to win Kyle over, Kyle insists some things are more valuable than a title and as crazy as it sounds, Cameron might just believe him.

A Touch of Love by Amazon Top Seller Cami Checketts

Annie Stirland has endured a lifetime of teasing, embarrassment, and isolation due to her speech impediment. When irresistible cowboy, Luke Wilson, seems to be falling for her, she’s certain he’s too good to be true. A tragedy involving his ex-girlfriend proves she’s right. What man can resist sheltering someone they once loved? Annie knows she should walk away, but Luke isn’t ready to give her up.


First Love
by Amazon Top Seller Taylor Hart

Janet Snow doesn’t expect to get caught in a full-blown make out session at her brother’s wedding. Especially not with Michael Hamilton, the boy she’d written off ten years ago. Even though they both agree to no complications, Janet's not sure they can stick to it given their past. After a trip to the hot springs, a helicopter ride, and a proposal, even the most cautious single mother would start to wonder if true love really is just about the timing. Now Janet has to make a choice—play it safe or trust that her first love could also be her last.


Romancing Rebecca by Amazon Top Seller, Kimberley Montpetit

Rebecca Dash loved spending her teen summers swooning over Jane Austin and helping her aunt at the Starry Skies Bed & Breakfast in Snow Valley. But as a recent college grad, she’d rather write sappy romance novels than go out with guys that make her a nervous wreck. When a team of fire-fighters set up camp on the lawns of the B&B and Captain Wade catches her eye, Becca soon learns that there’s more to a happily-ever-after than a flirty firemen with muscles the size of the Montana hills.

Love in Light and Shadow
by Amazon Top Seller Lucy McConnell


Mercedes O'Shay has sworn off gorgeous men because they have a tendency to break her heart. When she meets her new neighbor, Chet Bauer, she immediately puts him in the Do Not Date category based on his well-defined muscles and stunning blue eyes. But the more Mercedes learns about the cowboy who reads classics and forges iron, the more she realizes the heart doesn't see in black and white; it sees light and shadows.


Review:

Summer in Snow Valley is a fun collection of stories. Mostly they are fairly quick and easy reads with great characters. While some were more enjoyable than others, on the whole they were clean and entertaining. I enjoyed the connections of different characters throughout the books, while still being stand alone novels. The small town setting of Snow Valley was also fun.

If you are looking for clean romance novels this summer, be sure to check out Summer in Snow Valley. Especially during the blog tour where you can get the bundle of six eBooks for just $0.99!

Monday, June 1, 2015

Book Review: Honor by Rachel Rossano

Honor (Rhynan #2)

Book Description:

The Earl of Dentin excels in his position as Securer of the Realm. But the king’s order to pluck an orphaned child from a loving home unsettles Dentin. When a dark-eyed woman challenges his honor regarding the mission, Dentin finds himself unable to justify his actions or get her out of his mind. Something about her lack of fear intrigues him.

Lady Elsa Reeve attempts to avoid the marriage of convenience her brother and mother demand of her. She understands the need to pay off her brother's massive debt. She only wants her family to consider her wishes in the process.

As Elsa becomes further entangled in a snare of her brother’s creating, only one man defends her. But can she trust Dentin, her unlikely champion, and his motives? With a murderer on the loose, Elsa’s fate in jeopardy, and a traitor plotting against the king, Dentin finds his priorities shifting in an unexpected direction.


Book Review:

While this is a book two, it can be read without confusion if you haven't read the first one (Duty) yet. That being said, I would recommend reading the first one first because 1- It's an awesome read. Delightfully unexpected and 2- I think you get to know Dentin better if you read about him in the first one. He isn't a major character, but the author gives you enough to let you know his skills and a little of his background.

I didn't know anything about this series coming into it, and after I finished the first one I greedily sped through this one. I can't tell you which one I liked more, but I can say that I will be re-reading them again in the near near future. I am also going to read other books from this author .

I liked the Medieval genre. Most Medieval books I've read are fantasy, and while I enjoy those, this has a regency flair...if that makes any sense at all. This is a clean romance that I would highly recommend.


Honor (Rhynan #2)
Title: Honor
Author: Rachel Rossano
Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform
Published: February 2015
ISBN: 1507750390
Source: I received an eCopy in exchange for a review.