I can't wait for... Shadow Run by Adrianne Strickland & Michael Miller (Can't-Wait Wednesday/Waiting on Wednesday)

Can't-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted here to spotlight and talk about the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Generally they're books that have yet to be released as well. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by the fabulous Jill at Breaking the Spine. Find out more here.

I saw Firefly and Dune and I was immediately intrigued as I like both of those. I'm going to try to go in without super high expectations, but if this one is even a little bit as cool or as fun as those, I think I'll be sold. It's my pick this week...

Nothing goes as Belle plans... How I Met Your Brother by Janette Rallison (Review)

How I Met Your Brother

(Power of the Matchmaker)
by Janette Rallison

Adult Contemporary Romance

ebook, 209 Pages

November 1st 2016

Summary

The best day of his life, the worst day of hers. 

Back in college, Marco Dawson never thought of Belle as anything more than a friend. If she had crossed his mind on his wedding day, it was probably only to wonder why she hadn’t shown up to be a bridesmaid. After all, his new wife was her old roommate. Seven years have passed since then, and Belle just found out that Marco is divorced and vacationing with his family in an elegant Cancun resort. She’s not about to let the right man get away twice. She heads to the resort where she plans to casually bump into Marco and ignite some romantic flames. 

But Belle hadn’t planned on one thing: Flynn Dawson, Marco’s handsome, charming, and determined twin brother. He thinks Marco and his ex-wife can make amends and he’s not about to let Belle stand in the way. 

Part Sabrina, part While You Were Sleeping, romantic comedy readers will eat this book up!

Goodreads│Amazon

(Affiliate link included.)

4 Beautiful Children's Books... Hey Diddle Diddle & The Itsy Bitsy Spider by Joe Rhatigan, The Know-Nonsense Guide to Grammar by Heidi Fiedler & Poetry for Kids: Emily Dickinson (Review Briefs)

Review briefs are just like they sound, a briefer review (and usually for more
than one book) than my norm for books that I want or need to share about.
It's also a play off of legal briefs, which include just what you need to know...

The Itsy Bitsy Spider
(Classic Nursery Rhymes Retold)
by Joe Rhatigan
Illustrated by Carolina Farias

Children's Picture Book

Hardcover & ebook, 32 Pages

February 13th 2017 by MoonDance Press

Summary

Find out what happens next to the poor, wet spider and his insect friends in this classic nursery rhyme retold for today's kids.

"The itsy bitsy spider climbed up the waterspout" So begins the new and expanded version of the 100-year-old classic nursery rhyme. In this silly, fun, and must-read-aloud book, young children find out what happens next to the poor, wet spider and his insect friends. Follow along as caterpillars play leap frog in the trees, ladybugs play hide-and-seek, a beetle builds a swimming pool for his ant friends, and busy bees jump rope with a worm. There are giggles aplenty as each turn of the page offers new surprises and super-silly situations.

Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble│Book Depository

(Affiliate links included.)

Miss popular gets stuck with the bad boy... By Your Side by Kasie West (Review)

By Your Side

by Kasie West

YA Contemporary

Paperback & ebook, 352 Pages

January 31st 2017 by Harper Teen

Summary

In this irresistible story, Kasie West explores the timeless question of what to do when you fall for the person you least expect. Witty and romantic, this paperback original from a fan favorite is perfect for fans of Stephanie Perkins and Morgan Matson.

When Autumn Collins finds herself accidentally locked in the library for an entire weekend, she doesn’t think things could get any worse. But that’s before she realizes that Dax Miller is locked in with her. Autumn doesn’t know much about Dax except that he’s trouble. Between the rumors about the fight he was in (and that brief stint in juvie that followed it) and his reputation as a loner, he’s not exactly the ideal person to be stuck with. Still, she just keeps reminding herself that it is only a matter of time before Jeff, her almost-boyfriend, realizes he left her in the library and comes to rescue her.

Only he doesn’t come. No one does.

Instead it becomes clear that Autumn is going to have to spend the next couple of days living off vending-machine food and making conversation with a boy who clearly wants nothing to do with her. Except there is more to Dax than meets the eye. As he and Autumn first grudgingly, and then not so grudgingly, open up to each other, Autumn is struck by their surprising connection. But can their feelings for each other survive once the weekend is over and Autumn’s old life, and old love interest, threaten to pull her from Dax’s side?

Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble│Book Depository

(Affiliate links included.)

For those teaching in Relief Society... The Ready Resource for Relief Society: Gordon B. Hinckley by Trina Boice (Review)

The Ready Resource for Relief Society

Teachings of the Presidents of the Church:
Gordon B. Hinckley
by Trina Boice

LDS Nonfiction

Paperback, 160 Pages

December 13th 2017 by Cedar Fort, Inc.

Summary

Whether you're a new teacher or a seasoned veteran, preparing Relief Society lessons just got easier with this resource. With a chapter summary, pertinent quotes, relevant hymns, and a helpful handout for each lesson in the manual, you can focus on personalizing the lessons for the sisters in your ward.

Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble│Book Depository

(Affiliate links included.)

Weekly Update #200, saying goodbye to winter...

Welcome to my Weekly Update where I post my blog's schedule for the week! I'm linking up to The Sunday Post, hosted by Kimba @ The Caffeinated Book Reviewer, as well as to Tynga's Reviews for Stacking the Shelves showcasing the books I added to my shelves or Kindle this week, and It's Monday! What Are You Reading? hosted by Kathryn @ Book Date.

It's been cold all week, below our usual temps. It's made it feel like an actual winter. This week will be back up in the low 70s, which is just gorgeous weather. This also means that our winter here is over. I'm okay with that. Just hoping we won't get hot too soon.

This also means that all those spring releases are almost here. I seem to always forget the influx of books being released in the spring and I always want to read a lot of them, so I'm hoping to get a little ahead in reading so that I have plenty of time to read the books I want to. One of my favorite authors, Kasie West, is releasing her newest this week and I'm looking forward to reviewing it as well. This week is also my 4th blogoversary, so look for an upcoming giveaway for that.

Here's what to expect:

New Releases, Free & Bargain Books for January 23rd - 29th #Freebook #Booksale

Here are the New Releases / Free & Bargain Books, hosted by Sharon over at Beck Valley Books for this week! Check it all out below...

Authors please feel free to add your own books

Readers please free to add your own finds

(any genre except erotica welcome)

All is not as it seems... When Ash Rains Down by Cecelia Earl (Blog Tour Excerpt & #Giveaway) @authorcecelia

You can grab this one for your Kindle for 99¢ or FREE on Kindle Unlimited.

When Ash Rains Down

(Kingdom Come #1)
by Cecelia Earl

YA Urban Fantasy, Paranormal

Paperback & ebook, 214 Pages

January 4th 2017

Summary

Being crowned homecoming queen and enduring a week at the center of her classmates' attention is eighteen-year-old Julia White’s worst nightmare—even with Cole, her long-time crush, as her date. But when Julia is attacked by a green-blooded demon that vanishes in a plume of smoke, she comes face to face with what real nightmares look like—in the flesh, and all of the homecoming stuff hardly matters anymore.

As a frightening wave of crime infiltrates her small Wisconsin town, Julia tries to avoid Nicholas, a brooding, infuriating relative of Cole’s, who insists she’s the reason behind the corruption. He claims the culprits are demons who are after powers that only she—a human-angel hybrid—possesses. It’s unbelievable, of course, until he takes her to a hidden battlefield where warrior angels train to fight soul-siphoning demons—and her own angelic wings unfold.

When angels and demons draw battle lines, endangering everyone in their way, Julia has to find a way to protect them all, including herself. Because as it turns out, she’s the devil's most powerful weapon against the angels, and he’ll stop at nothing to claim her. 

The final battle between Heaven and Hell has begun.

When Ash Rains Down is the first book in debut author Cecelia Earl’s Kingdom Come series.

Goodreads│Amazon│Createspace

(Affiliate link included.)

2 Sweet Romances... Paper Love by Aubrey Wynne & A Rake Reformed by Shirley Marks (Review Briefs)

Review briefs are just like they sound, a briefer review (and usually for more
than one book) than my norm for books that I want or need to share about.
It's also a play off of legal briefs, which include just what you need to know...

Paper love

by Aubrey Wynne

Adult Contemporary Romance, Novella

Paperback & ebook, 112 Pages

October 16th 2016

Summary

Growing up in a Papua New Guinea mission, Joss Palmateer is a gentle soul with a unique view of life. Still adjusting to a new home in the U.S and the sudden loss of her mother, love is the last thing on her mind.

Sexy physical therapist, Ben Montgomery, meets his sister’s friend and the sparks fly. He takes it as a challenge when she ignores his advances, but it’s her extraordinary inner beauty that captures his heart.

With the help of a stray homing pigeon and an old origami legend, Ben sets an unwavering course of romance to win her love.

Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble

(Affiliate link included.)

Check out the tour for Tangle of Strings by Ashley Farley (Blog Tour & Giveaway)

On Tour with Prism Book Tours.

Book Tour Grand Finale for

Tangle of Strings

By Ashley Farley

We hope you enjoyed the tour! If you missed any of the stops, go back and check them out now...

Launch - Note from the Author

I hope you’ll enjoy reading about the Sweeney sisters as much I’ve enjoyed writing about them. They are real women faced with everyday challenges, struggling to balance the demands of career and home while remaining true to themselves.

Three brothers to fall in love with... Summer Harbor Series by Denise Hunter (Reviews)

Falling Like Snowflakes

(Summer Harbor #1)
by Denise Hunter

Christian Contemporary Romance

Paperback & ebook, 352 Pages

September 8th 2015 by Thomas Nelson

Summary

Eden Martelli is too busy fleeing the clutches of danger to realize she’s running straight into the arms of a new love.

Speeding north through rural Maine, Eden Martelli wonders how her life came to this—on the run with her mute five-year-old son dozing fitfully in the passenger seat. When a breakdown leaves them stranded in Summer Harbor, Eden has no choice but to stay put through Christmas . . . even though they have no place to lay their heads.

Beau Callahan is a habitual problem solver—for other people anyway. He left the sheriff’s department to take over his family’s Christmas tree farm, but he’s still haunted by the loss of his parents and struggling to handle his first Christmas alone.

When Eden shows up looking for work just as Beau’s feisty aunt gets out of the hospital, Beau thinks he’s finally caught a break. Eden is competent and dedicated—if a little guarded—and a knockout to boot. But, as he soon finds out, she also comes with a boatload of secrets.

Eden has been through too much to trust her heart to another man, but Beau is impossible to resist, and the feeling seems to be mutual. As Christmas Eve approaches, Eden’s past catches up to her.

Beau will go to the ends of the earth to keep her safe. But who’s going to protect his heart from a woman who can’t seem to trust again.

Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble│Book Depository

(Affiliate links included.)

A nail-biting finish... Petticoat Spy by Carol Warburton (Blog Tour Review & Giveaway)

I really enjoyed this one, so be sure to check out my review and enter the giveaway below...

Petticoat Spy

by Carol Warburton

Adult Historical Romance

Paperback & ebook, 296 Pages

January 3rd 2017 by Covenant Communications, Inc.

Summary

Colonial Massachusetts, 1775

Abigail Stowell is a rarity for her time. The comely young woman is educated, outspoken, and attuned to the charged political climate around her. She is a staunch Patriot. In short, she is a rebel. So when Gideon Whitlock, an avowed Tory, rides into her village, Abby is not only put off by his politics and arrogance but is also annoyed by her undeniable attraction to him.

When she observes a clandestine meeting between her Patriot father and Gideon, Abby soon realizes that in a world divided by loyalties, not everything is as it seems. Soon she is drawn deeper into political intrigue than she ever dreamed possible. And just as feelings begin to heat up between Abby and Gideon, the shot heard round the world ignites the beginning of war between the colonists and the British redcoats. There is no time for hesitation, and Abby finds herself thrust into a world of intrigue, treachery, and terror. Lives hang in the balance, and Abby will stop at nothing to support the Patriot movement—but will her allegiance to the cause mean losing the man she loves?

Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble│Deseret Book

(Affiliate link included.)

I can't wait for... Hunted by Meagan Spooner (Can't-Wait Wednesday/Waiting on Wednesday)

Can't-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted here to spotlight and talk about the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Generally they're books that have yet to be released as well. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by the fabulous Jill at Breaking the Spine. Find out more here.

I love all things Beauty and the Beast! I actually went through a reading stage several years ago where I read every version I could find all in the span of a month. This new rendition has a beautiful cover and a unique twist and I can't wait to read it...

Being free is not what she thought it would be... The Mark of the King by Jocelyn Green (Blog Tour Review & Giveaway)

The Mark of the King

by Jocelyn Green

Christian Historical Romance

Paperback & ebook, 416 Pages

January 3rd 2017 by Bethany House Publishers

Summary

Sweeping historical fiction set at the edge of the continent

After being imprisoned and branded for the death of her client, twenty-five-year-old midwife Julianne Chevalier trades her life sentence for exile to the fledgling 1720s French colony of Louisiana, where she hopes to be reunited with her brother, serving there as a soldier. To make the journey, though, women must be married, and Julianne is forced to wed a fellow convict.

When they arrive in New Orleans, there is no news of Benjamin, Julianne’s brother, and searching for answers proves dangerous. What is behind the mystery, and does military officer Marc-Paul Girard know more than he is letting on?

With her dreams of a new life shattered, Julianne must find her way in this dangerous, rugged land, despite never being able to escape the king’s mark on her shoulder that brands her a criminal beyond redemption.

Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble│Book Depository│Christianbook

(Affiliate links included.)

Happy release day to... Soulmated by Shaila Patel (Book Blitz & Giveaway) #ReleaseDay #Soulmated #Month9Squad #Month9Books #ownvoices

Soulmated

(Joining of Souls #1)
by Shaila Patel

YA Paranormal, Urban Fantasy

Paperback & ebook, 300 Pages

January 24th 2017 by Month9Books

Summary

Two souls. One Fate.

Eighteen-year-old Liam Whelan, an Irish royal empath, has been searching for his elusive soulmate. The rare union will cement his family's standing in empath politics and afford the couple legendary powers, while also making them targets of those seeking to oust them.

Laxshmi Kapadia, an Indian-American high school student from a traditional family, faces her mother's ultimatum: Graduate early and go to medical school, or commit to an arranged marriage.

When Liam moves next door to Laxshmi, he’s immediately and inexplicably drawn to her. In Liam, Laxshmi envisions a future with the freedom to follow her heart.

Liam's father isn't convinced Laxshmi is "The One" and Laxshmi's mother won't even let her talk to their handsome new neighbor. Will Liam and Laxshmi defy expectations and embrace a shared destiny? Or is the risk of choosing one's own fate too great a price for the soulmated?

Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble│Book Depository

(Affiliate links included.)

Check out the cover for... Black Bird of the Gallows by Meg Kassel (Cover Reveal) @entangledpub

Welcome to the Cover Reveal for

Black Bird of the Gallows by Meg Kassel

Coming September 5th 2017...

Weekly Update #199, a rather blustery day...

Welcome to my Weekly Update where I post my blog's schedule for the week! I'm linking up to The Sunday Post, hosted by Kimba @ The Caffeinated Book Reviewer, as well as to Tynga's Reviews for Stacking the Shelves showcasing the books I added to my shelves or Kindle this week, and It's Monday! What Are You Reading? hosted by Kathryn @ Book Date.

Winnie the Pooh  and the Blustery Day

We have had such winterish weather, especially for Arizona. It's been cold and wet, but the humidity has meant that the lows haven't been very low even with the highs fairly low. Now I say that understanding that our temperatures would be laughed at as being anywhere near cold in most other areas, but for us native Arizonans, having a week plus straight of temps below 60 is cold. Then today the sun came out (another weird thing about here is that we rarely have an entire day or three, like the past three days, without the sun - I don't remember the last time it was consistently this cloudy) and it got very windy. I tried to take some pictures for Instagram outside and had to hold my stuff down! I'm hoping this cool weather means that we won't hit 100 degrees until June. Not that it will happen, but one can hope.

So, on to other things besides the weather... I've also had two sick kids this week (the oldest and the youngest) and have been taking care of them. My little girl topped her croupy cough, that is still hanging on from last week, with an ear infection. So not fun! We did get to spend some together time and cuddle time, which I miss and really enjoyed. Reading unfortunately slacked off, but I plan on picking it back up again.

Here's what to expect this week on the blog:

Check out the tour for Tangle of Strings by Ashley Farley (Blog Tour & #Giveaway)

On Tour with Prism Book Tours.

Book Tour Launch for

Tangle of Strings

By Ashley Farley

Note from the Author

Tangle of Strings is the fourth in the Sweeney Sisters Series, a Southern family saga that chronicles the lives of three middle-aged sisters—Jackie, Samantha, and Faith—and their loved ones. Sixteen-year-old Annie Dawn is the newcomer in Lowcountry Stranger, the second in the series. Adopted daughter and beloved sister, she is now very much a part of the Sweeney family. When she finds herself in crisis, all the Sweeneys offer their support. Problem is, they can't agree on the best solution to her problem. Tangle of Strings is a stand-alone novel, but reading the previous installments will add insight into the family dynamics and further your reading pleasure. 

I hope you’ll enjoy reading about the Sweeney sisters as much I’ve enjoyed writing about them. They are real women faced with everyday challenges, struggling to balance the demands of career and home while remaining true to themselves. Please visit my website at www.ashleyfarley.net for more about the series and stop by my Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/ashleywfarley. I love hearing from my readers.

—Ashley

Tangle of Strings

(Sweeney Sisters #4)
by Ashley Farley

Women's Fiction, Romance

Paperback & ebook, 240 pages
January 18th 2017

A nearly tragic accident leads to a discovery that rocks the Sweeney family’s world

Some families never resolve conflicts. Not so with the Sweeneys. Their sense of family, their love for one another, and their willingness to forgive have always triumphed and brought them back together. Until now. The latest crisis threatens to tear the family apart and crumble the foundation that has always proved itself rock solid.

At the heart of the matter are sixteen-year-old Annie Bethune and her boyfriend, Cooper. At stake are their dreams for the future. As to these dreams, no one in the family holds back when asserting an opinion.

Annie soon begins to feel like a puppet on strings with all those she loves telling her what to do. When those strings become tangled and a family feud develops, Annie, unable to bear the pressure, runs away. Straight into the arms of danger.

Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble│iBooks

The final two books in this family series... The Wonder of You and You're the One That I Want by Susan May Warren (Review)

The Wonder of You

(Christiansen Family #5)
by Susan May Warren

Christian Contemporary Romance

Paperback, Audiobook & ebook, 390 Pages

June 18th 2015 by Thomas Nelson

Summary

Mortified after her year abroad is cut short, Amelia Christiansen returns to Deep Haven, certain she isn’t brave enough to embrace the adventures she’s dreamed of. The last thing she expects is for the man who broke her heart to cross the Atlantic and beg forgiveness.

Heir to a European hotel dynasty, Roark St. John has trekked from one exotic locale to another, haunted by tragedy and the expectations that accompany his last name. Amelia is the first woman to give him a reason to stop running. He’ll do anything for a second chance—even contend with Amelia’s old flame, who is intent on sending Roark packing.

While one surprise after another leaves Amelia reeling, Roark’s continued presence only highlights the questions pursuing her. Like him, is she running from the life God has called her to? Could finding her place mean leaving home behind?

Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble│Book Depository

(Affiliate links included.)

Some sweet romances... All By My Selfie by Jo Noelle & Stormy Kisses by Multiple Authors (Review Briefs)

Review briefs are just like they sound, a briefer review (and usually for more

than one book) than my norm for books that I want or need to share about.

It's also a play off of legal briefs, which include just what you need to know...

All By My Selfie

by Jo Noelle

Adult Contemporary Romance, Fantasy, Novella

ebook, 91 Pages

October 16th 2016 by Little Box Press LLC

Summary

While on vacation at McLeod Castle in Scotland, Gwen Mackenzie has nightly dreams of an ancient warrior bound by a curse. During the day, she sees Niall, nicknamed #ScottishBoyfriend. She clicks a few selfies with him in the background. Oh, and can that man rock a kilt! As she gets to know him, she realizes that Niall is the warrior from her dreams, cursed to live as a ghost for the past five hundred years, to see life around him but never see, taste, or feel any of it—except Gwen. 

This is a 100 page novella in the clean & wholesome category.

Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble

Currently FREE at B&N

(Affiliate link included.)

Check out the cover for My Dearest Love by Sarah M. Eden (Cover Reveal)

Welcome to the Cover Reveal for

My Dearest Love by Sarah M. Eden

From the world of Hope Springs, coming July 11th 2017...

Best of 2016 Giveaway Hop (Giveaway)

The Best of 2016 Giveaway Hop is hosted by BookHounds.

For my giveaway, the winner can choose any of the books from my top reads of 2016.

Find the post with my list HERE.

A great end to the series... Manners & Mutiny by Gail Carriger (Review)

Manners & Mutiny

(Finishing School #4)
by Gail Carriger

YA Steampunk

Hardcover, Paperback, Audiobook & ebook, 326 Pages

November 3rd 2015 by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers

Summary

If one must flirt...flirt with danger. 

Lessons in the art of espionage aboard Mademoiselle Geraldine's floating dirigible have become tedious without Sophronia's sootie Soap nearby. She would rather thwart dastardly Picklemen, yet her concerns about their wicked intentions are ignored. 

Who can she trust? Royal werewolf dewan? Stylish vampire Lord Akeldama? Only one thing is certain: a large-scale plot is under way. Sophronia must be ready to save her friends, her school, and all of London from disaster.

Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble│Book Depository

(Affiliate links included.)

I can't wait for... American Street by Ibi Zoboi (Can't-Wait Wednesday/Waiting on Wednesday)

Can't-Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted here to spotlight and talk about the books we're excited about that we have yet to read. Generally they're books that have yet to be released as well. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by the fabulous Jill at Breaking the Spine. Find out more here.

I love the sound of this one and that the main character is Haitian! I'm looking forward to diving in...

Check out the cover for Mischief & Magnolias by Kristi Cook (Cover Reveal, Excerpt & Giveaway)

Welcome to the Cover Reveal for

Mischief & Magnolias by Kristi Cook

Coming February 7th 2017.

Definitely check it, an excerpt, and the giveaway out below...

Happy release day to... Damaged Goods by Jennifer Bardsley (Book Blitz Excerpt & Giveaway) #ReleaseDay #DamagedGoods #Month9Squad #Month9Books

I'm sharing in spreading the word about the release of this YA Dystopian
from Month9Books. Check it out, the excerpt, and giveaway below...

Damaged Goods

(Blank Slate #2)
by Jennifer Bardsley

YA Dystopian, SciFi

Hardcover, Paperback & ebook, 300 Pages

January 17th 2017 by Month9Books

Summary

Blanca has everything she ever wanted, a hot boyfriend named Seth and the loving support of her foster father, Cal. She’s finally escaped the abusive control of her birth father, Barbelo Nemo, and her tortured childhood at Tabula Rasa School.

But the scars of Blanca’s Vestal upbringing run deep, especially when the FBI start asking questions. Blanca feels abandoned by Seth who is hunting for Lilith, Blanca’s only blood relative. The Defectos, a support group of Vestal-Rejects, offer Blanca comfort instead.

While the Vestal order crumbles, Chinese rivals called the Guardians rise to power and wrest control of important Tabula Rasa contacts. Now Blanca’s life is in peril once more, and this time, Blanca struggles to recognize friend from foe.

Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble│Book Depository

(Affiliate links included.)

A unique twist on The Twelve Dancing Princesses... Midnight Sister by Sarah E. Boucher (Blog Tour Review, Guest Post & Giveaway)

I love all things fairy tale, so I've been looking forward to reading this retelling of the The Twelve Dancing Princess! The author's first book, Becoming Beauty, which is also a fairy tale retelling, is on sale for 99¢ in ebook, if you're interested in grabbing a copy (links below).

Midnight Sister

by Sarah E. Boucher

YA Fairy Tale, Fantasy, Retelling

Paperback & ebook, 188 Pages

January 1st 2017

Summary

The words rattled around Jonas’s head. What was the punishment again? Death? Dismemberment? Jonas, the newest addition to the gardening staff, couldn’t recall the exact penalty for breaking the rule. What does it matter anyway? He would never dream of meddling with the Earl of Bromhurst’s haughty daughters.

Until he comes face to face with Lady Ariela, the eldest of the Master’s daughters.

Her elusive smile and open manner cause him to question his convictions. In no time, he’s drawn into Lady Ariela’s world of mystery and intrigue, a world where she and her sisters will do anything—including leaving twelve empty beds at midnight—to escape their father’s strict rules.

Only Jonas can uncover the truth and save them from their father’s wrath and their own folly, if he is willing to risk everything he’s ever worked for.

Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble│Book Depository

(Affiliate links included.)

Excerpt

“Jonas—”

I could see the words growing in his eyes.

“You know the cardinal rule.”

I wanted to roll my eyes, but kept my expression bland instead. Showing impatience had consequences for an undergardener.

“Do not meddle with the Master’s daughters.”

I had heard the words so many times my ears felt like they would start bleeding. If Higgins knew how pointless it was to fire them at me time and again, he’d save his breath.

“Understood?” Higgins asked with one eyebrow cocked.

The thought of running back to my family became more appealing with every upward slant of that eyebrow. “Yes, sir.”

2017 Retellings Reading Challenge #RetellingsRC2017

The 2017 Retellings Reading Challenge is hosted by Jo at Once Upon a Bookcase. You can find all the details and sign up here.

I participated in a challenge like this last year and it was fun, so I thought I'd join this one. I'll keep track of my books on Goodreads here, but will also update this post with what I've read and reviewed.

Do you enjoy reading retellings?

2017 Beat the Backlist Challenge Reading Challenge #BeatTheBacklist

The Beat the Backlist Challenge is hosted by Austine and Tia at novelknight. You can find all the details and sign up here.

Last year I participated in a similar challenge, which isn't being continued this year, so I'm switching to this one. I have a lot of books that I need to read from my shelves and from my Kindle, so I'm hoping this will help encourage me. One can hope. ;)

I'll keep a shelf on Goodreads here, but will also list books that I've read/reviewed below.

Did you or are you joining this challenge?

2017 Netgalley & Edelweiss Reading Challenge #NGEW2017

I'm joining the Netgalley & Edelweiss Reading Challenge hosted by Katrina @ Bookish Things. You can find all the details and sign up here.

I participated in this challenge last year too, although it was hosted by a different blogger. I did okay, but did terrible at updating each month and linking up. Hopefully I'll do better with that this year.

I'm going for the Gold – 50 Books level. I have NetGalley and Edeleweiss bookshelves on Goodreads that I'll kind of use to monitor this (they're crazy long), but I'll also list books here that I've read and reviewed this year.

Looking forward to increasing my review percentage for both sites!

Weekly Update #198, where I'm on a romance kick...

Welcome to my Weekly Update where I post my blog's schedule for the week! I'm linking up to The Sunday Post, hosted by Kimba @ The Caffeinated Book Reviewer, as well as to Tynga's Reviews for Stacking the Shelves showcasing the books I added to my shelves or Kindle this week, and It's Monday! What Are You Reading? hosted by Kathryn @ Book Date.

I have had such a lighter blogging schedule so far this year which has been a very good thing as the family has kept me super, super busy. I had my youngest sick this week and some other things going on. I also just felt like I needed some comfort reads, so I've been eating up sweet romances. It's been so nice to just read to relax. I'll be mixing in some less relaxing, but hopefully still really enjoyable reads coming up. I think I don't easily get burned out of reading or blogging is because I read a wide variety of genres. Keeps things interesting. What genre(s) do you read?

Here's what to expect this week:

3 Sweet Romances... Wild Heart Summer by Jenny B. Jones, A Cliché Christmas and A Season to Love by Nicole Deese (Review Briefs)

Review briefs are just like they sound, a briefer review (and usually for more

than one book) than my norm for books that I want or need to share about.

It's also a play off of legal briefs, which include just what you need to know...

Wild Heart Summer

(A Sugar Creek Novella)
by Jenny B. Jones

Christian Contemporary Romance, Novella

ebook, 125 Pages

October 6th 2015

Summary

Twenty-one year old Avery Crawford has had to fight for everything in her life, and this summer is no exception. When her culinary internship in a chic restaurant falls through at the last minute, she gets an unexpected offer to work on a dude ranch in the quaint town of Sugar Creek. The problem? The ranch is owned by the grandfather she's been kept from all her life. 

Avery is completely out of her element with the cattle drives, trail rides, and most of all—cute ranch manager Owen Jackson. Not in the market for romance, Avery still finds herself tempted by the cowboy’s Southern charm and sweet kisses. But as secrets unravel on the ranch, Avery will have to let go of the old wounds if she wants to hold onto the love Owen offers her. When the summer’s over, Avery must risk it all—or lose much more than her heart. 

Previously published in the novella collection Just One Summer.

Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble

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A girl coming of age and falling in love... The Reformer by Jaima Fixsen (Review)

The Reformer

(Power of the Matchmaker)
by Jaima Fixsen

Adult Historical Romance

ebook, 256 Pages

December 1st 2016

Summary

Love at first sight...

Mary Buchanan has bigger worries than the radical journalist next door who’s spoiling her father’s digestion: unrequited love for a footman, a fractious aunt, patiently awaiting her destiny… She’s certain he’ll be handsome.

Then she meets the reformer, journalist Samuel Brown. Destiny is closer at hand than Mary has supposed—if she can just get Mr. Brown to realize it.

Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble

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A lovely cover... The Rise of Miss Notley by Rachael Anderson (Cover Reveal & Giveaway)

Welcome to the Cover Reveal for

The Rise of Miss Notley by Rachael Anderson

Coming February 2016...

I loved this author's last book, The Fall of Lord Drayson (review here), which was the first in this new series set in historical England, so I'm really looking forward to this one!

Check out the cover and read the first chapter of The Sky Throne by Chris Ledbetter (Cover Reveal & Giveaway) #FridayReveals #Month9Squad #Month9Books

Welcome to the Cover and Chapter Reveal for
The Sky Throne by Chris Ledbetter

Coming April 18th 2017 from Month9Books...

Note from the Author

Since my father put the first book of mythology in my hand, I've loved myths and legends. I always favored Greek mythology. I actually think I was Greek in a past life. Beginning in 2011, I conceived a story to sit down and have Zeus tell me what his childhood was like, especially his teenage years. All I did was listen to what he told me and put it down on paper.

Check out the tour for The Cowboy's Twins by Tara Taylor Quinn (Blog Tour & Giveaway)

On Tour with Prism Book Tours

Book Tour Grand Finale for

The Cowboy's Twins

By Tara Taylor Quinn

We hope you enjoyed this tour about a charming cowboy, his twins and a TV producer! Grab a copy for yourself while it's on sale and if you missed any of the stops, go back and check them out...

Launch - Note from the Author

Welcome to The Cowboy’s Twins tour!! This is the third and last book in the Family Secrets Cooking Show series. It’s fun. The twins entertained me from the beginning of the book until the end. And, in typical ttq fashion, it’s emotionally intense, too.

A little cowboy charm... The Cowboy's Twins by Tara Taylor Quinn (Review)

The Cowboy's Twins

(Family Secrets #3)

by Tara Taylor Quinn

Adult Contemporary Romance

Mass Market Paperback & ebook, 368 pages

January 3rd 2017 by Harlequin Heartwarming

Summary

It looked so good on camera…

If it weren't for the money, Spencer Longfellow would happily drive Natasha Stevens and her TV crew right off his ranch. But his land, and his kids, mean the world to him—and he'll do anything to secure their future. Even cohost Natasha's cooking show, Family Secrets, in his barn. Even play the token hunky cowboy to her sophisticated city slicker and flirt with her on national television… It could never amount to anything real anyway. After all, he was fooled and left in the dust by a city girl once. And he will never let that happen to him—or his kids—again

Goodreads│Amazon│Barnes & Noble│Harlequin│Target

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New release & #sale... Finding Kyler by Siobhan Davis (Book Blitz & Giveaway)

Special release week pricing!

Finding Kyler is only 0.99$ during the release week! Buy a copy from Amazon now

before the price increases to $2.99. Finding Kyler is available to read in Kindle Unlimited.

Finding Kyler

(The Kennedy Boys #1)
by Siobhan Davis

YA Contemporary

Paperback & ebook, 299 Pages

January 9th 2017

Summary

Two fractured hearts and a forbidden love they can’t deny.

You shouldn’t want what you can’t have…

Faye Donovan has lost everything. After her parent’s tragic death, she’s whisked away from her home in Ireland when an unknown uncle surfaces as her new guardian.

Dropped smack-dab into the All-American dream, Faye should feel grateful. Except living with her wealthy uncle, his fashion-empire-owning wife, and their seven screwed-up sons is quickly turning into a nightmare—especially when certain inappropriate feelings arise.

Kyler Kennedy makes her head hurt and her heart race, but he’s her cousin.

He’s off limits.

And he’s not exactly welcoming—Kyler is ignorant, moody, and downright cruel—but Faye sees behind the mask he wears, recognizing a kindred spirit.

Kyler has sworn off girls, yet Faye gets under his skin. The more he pushes her away, the more he’s drawn to her, but acting on those feelings risks a crap-ton of prejudice, and any whiff of scandal could damage the precious Kennedy brand.

Concealing their feelings seems like the only choice.

But when everyone has something to hide, a secret is a very dangerous thing.

Read an exclusive sample of Finding Kyler here.

Goodreads│Amazon

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